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💙🌊 For The Oceans – Cigarette Butts with Amanda Rushforth and Azraq 🌊💙

Posted on July 7, 2020

Every year 4.5 Trillion cigarette butts are littered worldwide, with a significant percentage finding their way into our oceans and onto our shores. In fact, 30-40% of all items collected in coastal and urban clean ups are butts. Azraq highlights that most people do not realise that cigarette filters within cigarette butts are made from a type of plastic called cellulose acetate which doesn’t biodegrade.

In 2003, The Dubai Municipality introduced a 500 AED fine for littering them. This fine has doubled to 1000 AED with six black points for drivers flicking cigarette butts onto UAE roads. Not only being unpleasant aesthetically, cigarette filters are comprised of thousands of chemical ingredients, including arsenic, lead, nicotine and ethyl phenol, all of which leak into aquatic environments.

As well as smoking being bad for the environment, smoking killed more than 2,900 people in the UAE in 2016 and cost the country $569 million in lost productivity and health care costs, according to the latest report on global smoking. In 2016 it was reported that, 748 cigarettes were smoked per person aged over 15 years, per year in the United Arab Emirates.

Here’s my third video highlighting marine conservation with Azraq ME 💙🌊 I’d love to hear what you think! #marinedebris #fortheoceans #oceanconservation

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💙🌊 For The Oceans – Useless Utensils with Amanda Rushforth and Azraq 🌊💙

Posted on June 18, 2020

Azraq highlights that it’s no secret that the hospitality sector is one of the biggest contributors to plastic pollution globally, and they think all of those plastic utensils that they give away (you know, the ones that end up among the most common items found during costal clean ups) are pretty useless!

In 2016, Worldcentric.org estimated that 40 billion plastic utensils were used every year in  the United States alone. The majority of these were thrown out after just one use and ended up in landfills and waterways… something must be done. In order to highlight this problem, and hopefully get people to think twice about their usage, AZRAQ launched its #uselessutensils campaign in mid-2019 in partnership with Freedom Pizza, Lush Middle East, Carluccio’s and Beitfann Studio (Sustainable City).  With your help, they collected approximately 60kg and over 30,000 plastic utensils in six weeks!

Here’s my second video highlighting marine conservation with Azraq ME 💙🌊 I’d love to hear what you think! #marinedebris #fortheoceans #oceanconservation

Recommended

💙🌊 For The Oceans – Marine Conservation with Amanda Rushforth and Azraq 🌊💙

Posted on June 7, 2020

Azraq is a non-profit marine conservation organisation registered with the Community Development Authority in the UAE. The mission is to end the destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the world’s oceans in order to conserve and protect ecosystems and species. The aim is to EDUCATE through awareness programs and community presentations, MOTIVATE individuals, organisations and communities at large to make a difference and ACTIVATE them by offering a range of activities on, in and around the ocean.

THINK GLOBALLY, ACT LOCALLY.

The marine environment needs help. Why not you? Whether you volunteer at a stall, help keep our shores clean and safe or can encourage others to care about the oceans through art, there are many ways you can become a marine warrior helping Azraq conserve and protect our precious oceans.

I’ve been working on a few videos during lockdown for my new role as a director at Azraq – to highlight marine conservation 💙🌊 I’d love to hear what you think! 

Fitness travel

Weekends well spent with Privilee

Posted on March 10, 2020

I have tried and tested many of the amazing discount books, club apps and fitness memberships here in the UAE, but from food to fitness and festivities, there’s none that really wrap all of the city’s offerings into one, quite like Privilee does.

Privilee is our local club card that gives back without the points system. Whether you’re just over here on holiday, a true blue expat or you’ve expanded your brood recently and aren’t sure where’s kid friendly, Privilee has a four different membership plans, running between 1, 4 and 12 months, for the ultimate flexibility. Offering a card free digital booking system, making the whole concept more sustainable too, your whole weekend is literally a click away.

Partnering with a wide array of partners across the city and the capital too, boredom just isn’t an option. It’s not just the picturesque white sands of Dubai’s infamous luxury hotels that are on offer either, it’s that gym you’ve always wanted to try but didn’t want to commit to, or the busy hotspots around the city that now take 25% off your bill with pleasure.

If you’ve ever sat at home on a Friday morning, wondering what to do with your weekend, a daycay at the beach followed by a workout in the sun and sundowners on the Palm doesn’t sound too bad, especially when you know you can just walk in…

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Testing Out: The Dermapen Mesofacial

Posted on March 2, 2020

I never realized just how important getting a facial was, or just how much they can really help your skin. Having trialled different types of facials and deep cleansing treatments, I was yet to come across one I could really recommend… until now. The Dermapen Mesofacial at Nova Clinic is a revolutionary skin care treatment that stimulates the natural production of new cells and collagen, delivering results without the need to go under the knife.

What are these results exactly? First off, it boasts firmer skin, smoother, more toned and definitely more hydrated skin, with added benefits of targeting cellulite, fine lines and scarring on the face, jawline and neck too. The Dermapen Mesofacial uses micro-needling technology with individually wrapped needles that penetrate partway into the dermis, to stimulate the skin’s natural collagen production process. It punctures the skin a hundred times a second, creating micro-breakages, which the skin responds to with instant healing and collagen production.

The Dermapen Mesofacial is referred to as a facial because the analysis of your complexion, identifying key areas of concern and any sensitivities is followed by a deep cleansing treatment that prepares your skin for the procedure, akin to a mini facial. It can also be used on other areas of the body, particularly those such as upper arms, buttocks and thighs, where cellulite is common. It is relatively painless and the redness is natural, dissipating within a few hours after the treatment too.

QUOTE: HALO for 15% off when booking too!

fashion Recommended

Introducing Eurthlin and their Vegan Handbags

Posted on November 20, 2019

Because we love our handbags, but we also want to be eco-friendly. Dubai based brand Eurthlin is the first in the region to launch a luxury vegan alternative brand for conscious consumers.

It goes without saying, if you’re going to rival the likes of the Goyard and LV tote, you need to be memorable. To me, that means a conversation starter and that is exactly what Eurthlin is. It isn’t a trend-led brand looking to capitalize on the instagrammer’s of the world, it’s a thought-provoking piece of design that ensures you a guilt-free shopping spree.

Inspired by the elements; fire, water, earth and air, the brand’s signature repeat pattern print is combined to make a unique yet not overpowering logo. The brainchild of recent vegan herself Natalie Daghestani, Eurthlin is a culmination of compassion and craftsmanship with a sustainable edge. The vegan leather is aesthetically similar to animal leather and the collection boasts 3 must-have styles for all discerning fashionistas out there.

“Eurthlin only uses 100% PETA-Approved Vegan materials and is proudly registered with The Vegan Society. The bags are also ethically produced with care, with each piece sporting a GOTS-certified organic cotton lining made from natural seeds without the use of pesticides, a dust bag that has been made from recycled bottles and their mailer pouches are home compostable.”

For the fair-trade conscious too, the brand’s production facility has been certified by Brussels-based auditing firm Amfori BSCI – the leading business association for open and sustainable trade. Adding to their sustainable edge, Eurthlin has also committed to plant one tree in the Amazon for every piece sold in collaboration with OneTreePlanted.org to assist with this year’s globally highlighted reforestation.

Branding these beauties is of course the icing on the cake and you can add your piece of personalization through their online ordering service too.

 

fashion Recommended

Rossano Ferretti: The Master of The Method Cut

Posted on May 12, 2019

Rossano Ferretti is famous for the invisible haircut, the haircut with natural fall in movement… The METHOD Cut.

I’ve never been that particular about my hair, in fact it stayed up in a bun or ponytail  for the majority of my youth. Long hair was always prized and my hair was very long and think. Rebellions were often in terms of colour rather than cut, but I’ve learned to love my hair. Never more so than since finding a hairdresser who really knew what to do with it. It’s long, think, but I’ve got a short forehead so absolutely NO fringes, but it falls far too far forward and I looked like Morticia Adams with a centre parting according to mum.

“Our Method was born out of the dissatisfaction, of myself and my sister Lorenza, with everything stereotyped and artificial that stood for beautiful hair. We wanted to enhance every woman’s unique beauty, speaking a language of elegance, naturalness and uniqueness. By hard work and passion, we succeeded in becoming the spokespersons of natural, personalised beauty, creating a revolution in the way of bringing to life, understanding, and communicating beauty. We told women, “Enjoy your hair!” – in harmony with yourself. Our Method is the way we relate to the profession. It allows us to innovate without ignoring the past, like a robust weave whose threads leave its interpreters leeway for freedom of expression.” Rossano Ferretti.

Having tried the salon on a press launch, it was immediately that I felt lighter, thinner hair yet with more movement and started to wear it down more comfortably. It was still long mind you, but I’ve always been put off shorter hair for fear of looking like a lampshade with my thickness. So it was one bold morning where I finally told Christina at Rossano Ferretti I was ready to see a different shape.

“What I try to do most with my students is to develop a new sensibility together with them, one that is bolder, that involves developing one’s senses. And so I work on touch, sight, and the body. How come? For the simple reason that hair is a malleable material, a living thing; it has its own life and if we learn to observe it, understand and interpret it, it follows us obligingly, without becoming unruly. Which is why, every time a haircut is spoken of, I urge them to think that a cut should resemble as much as possible a work of art and not a mathematical calculation. Our training not only teaches the haircut, but educates the eyes and heart to recognize the light of beauty. Because genuine fascination shuns any beauty-code: it lies in the self-confidence of those who choose to be themselves.” Lorenza Ferretti, Artistic Director.

I’m sold. Short hair don’t care and my only worry now is having to slick it back for the gym, but I can finally wear my hair as a feature, rather than hating it for hiding them.

Hotspot Recommended

Bleu Blanc – A Discovery of Food

Posted on February 20, 2019

Veganism, whilst the newest trend in the foodie world, is slowly starting to become more recognized as a menu must-have. Whether you’re drawn in by the sentiment or simply intolerant to the ingredients it forgoes, vegetables are slowly starting to take center place on a plate. I ventured down to Bleu Blanc at the Renaissance hotel in Business Bay for the first time. French, and as such, is somewhere that I’m assured lives up to its stereotype… i.e. not normally vegetable friendly. I was invited down to discover their entirely new meat & dairy free menu.

 

I’m always dubious of menu tastings as first and foremost, I’m not a natural foodie. I’m intolerant/allergic and downright fussy to boot, so challenging the chef was my main appeal I’ll admit. What followed a quick introduction to the accompanying wine offerings (which were deliciously curated) was an entirely engaging journey to a world of flavour I never knew vegetables had.

Salads to start, light and crisp, with a fair bit of crunch thrown in, whetted the appetite for my favourite dish… the fire cured cauliflower. I will never underestimate this vegetable again. Boil it and it’s useless in my eyes but cook it over a wood burning fire in a sieve and you’ve got a sensationally smoky alternative to say chicken wings. The almond cream sauce too was a winner.

Moving on to what we thought was the ‘main course’ equivalent, we spotted the blackened remains of a whole pumpkin that had been slowly cooking in its own juices for the past 12 hours, sitting in the fire. As Chef slowly tore through the skin, its true orange hue shone through. A ‘meatier’ meal, the pumpkin slice was soft and juicy, with a smoky base and coupled with a porcini sauce.

Not the main course however, the homemade potato gnocchi with shelled peas and pesto that was ‘Grandma’s recipe’ filled the tiny gap we had left. It was without doubt, a menu that would excite even the most carnivorous of my friends, because if veganism tastes this good, I’m sold.

Hotspot Recommended

Veganuary at The Four Seasons

Posted on January 16, 2019

It’s pretty self-explanatory, but Veganuary is a month-long pledge throughout the month of January where people try and live a more vegan lifestyle. The Four Seasons in Jumeirah is putting a precedence on wellness and nutrition and has decided to adopt this trend in one of its restaurants this month, which in my view, is fab news.

Let’s face it, adopting a plant-based diet with no meat, no dairy and no animal products can be for some, pretty tricky. I’m a vegetarian but I couldn’t imagine what my diet would look like if I gave up milk, eggs and bread… so I was intrigued to check out just what a vegan brekkie looks (tastes) like.

Their new ‘Get The Glow’ vegan menu unveiled this month at The Pearl Courtyard and I have to say, I was very impressed. (Check it out further down) My favourites are the Turmeric Quinoa Granola, Baobab Blueberry Yoghurt and the Superfruit Salad, share all three over a pot of England’s finest and you’ve got my winning strategy.

“Realizing the importance of a healthy and holistic lifestyle, Executive Chef Gilles has curated a dedicated menu rich in vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and nutrients which is skillfully prepared to create positive, and long-lasting change and promote overall health. Using fresh and seasonal produce sourced from a local organic farm, Chef Gilles aims to change the way we view food without compromising on the flavour.” …and he’s not wrong, with a menu like that, there really is something for everyone and I can definitely recommend it as a healthy hotspot.

Here’s what they’re serving…

Don’t miss out!

travel

Four Seasons at Anahita, Mauritius

Posted on July 3, 2018

It’s always been on my list, as most tropical islands are, but Mauritius always seemed just a little too far away for a weekend escape. I was very wrong… Only a 6 hour flight from Dubai, heading towards South Africa in an A380, Mauritius is as easy to access as Europe. Factor in the travel time it takes you to reach most hotels from the airport in other destinations like Sri Lanka and Thailand, you’re looking at a shorter total travel time with the Four Seasons at Anahita.

Welcomed to the island just as the sun was starting to set, a permanent coastal breeze breathes life into any tired soul. The coastal road to the resort is winding yet wonderful, with views of both mountains and sugar cane fields as far as the eye can see. There’s no beaches as such, but surrounding the island is the reef with a distant surf constantly cresting.

The Four Seasons at Anahita is as luxurious as one would imagine of the brand, but it’s the deep blue extended oceanscape that seems to start almost as immediately as you set foot inside the reception. Bungalows rather than rooms await your arrival, boasting plunge pools and ever so greatly received, motorised mosquito nets over the doors, so that your ocean experience continues well past the sun going down. I must admit, it’s been a long while since I fell asleep to the sound of waves gently lapping at the shoreline.

Featuring 3 very distinct and different restaurants catering to your cultural and dietary needs, from Mauritian flavours and seafood BBQ’s, to an exquisite Italian that boasts the best tiramisu on the island, as well as a customary buffet for travellers who can’t decide which flavour suits them best. The Four Seasons at Anahita has a wealth of experience at persuading its guests to fully relax and enjoy their break.

With plenty to keep you occupied too, there’s a whole host of activities in the resort that will allow you to fully take advantage of your R&R. A tennis court, luxury gym and length pool, outdoor boxing set up, bikes as well as a wealth of water sports. There’s no excuse for boredom, but then again, we don’t ever really switch off do we? If anywhere is going to help convince you, this resort is.