Marcelo Burlon at Provocateur Dubai

Hello readers,

I am sorry for not able to write past a few days. I am having issues with my full time job and this week, I had to file a complaint to get my rights. When you're jobless in a foreign city, you feel much more alone than you actually are. let's get back to the actual story, shall we?

For those who doesn't know Marcelo Burton, please read some fashion blogs!! :D He is a Designer, DJ, Argentinian-born Milan resident, and cultural impresario Marcelo Burlon launched his County of Milan line in 2012. Burlon’s ethos: Think Local, Act Global. What started with a line of printed t-shirts has since exploded into a streetwear line closely linked to his nightlife roots. Boasting Burlon’s signature pixelated diamond logo, men’s hoodies, graphic t-shirts, beanies, and luxe sweatpants combine the comfort of sportswear with the underground luxury of modern clubwear, in a bold monochrome palette of black, white, and red. 

Event was organised to celebrate his latest collection in Harvey Nichols at Provocateur, Four Seasons Hotel Jumeirah. He was also DJ'ing that evening. I finally approached to say what I feel about his great work he has done. You will read my interview with him soon.... Keep reading this space!

Ciao!

Louvre Abu Dhabi Press Release

Hello readers,

I have been in touch with Louvre Abu Dhabi team for their grand opening and future events. I can not reveal too much but please wait anxiously for more updates!!! In meantime, check out their press release! ;)


Born out of an intergovernmental agreement between Abu Dhabi and France in 2007, Louvre Abu Dhabi and its universal story embodies the spirit of openness and dialogue among cultures, displaying works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from different times and civilisations. Once open, the museum’s permanent collection, as well as important loaned artworks from prestigious French institutions, will form an art historical narrative taking the visitor from ancient times to the contemporary through 23 permanent galleries in 12 sequences.

Design:

Pritzker-prize winning architect Jean Nouvel has sought inspiration for the concept of Louvre Abu Dhabi in traditional Arabic architectural culture. Applying a contextual approach to the site, the Louvre Abu Dhabi has been designed as a ‘museum city’ in the sea, with its contrasting series of white buildings inspired by the medina and low-lying Arab settlements. But here it is a modern interpretation made in ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC). In total there are approximately 55 individual buildings making up this museum city.

The 180 meter-wide dome covers the majority of the museum city and becomes an iconic structure visible from the sea, the surrounding areas and Abu Dhabi city. The eight-layered dome is made up of four outer stainless steel layers and four inner layers separated by a steel structure five meters in height. The structure is made up of 85 super-sized elements, weighing on average 50 tonnes.
The dome’s complex pattern is the result of a highly studied geometric design, repeated at various sizes and angles in the eight superimposed layers. Each ray of light must penetrate the eight layers before appearing then disappearing, creating a cinematic effect as the sun’s path progresses throughout the day. Named the ‘rain of light’, this effect has been the subject of many models and mock ups over the years and is one of the defining features of the concept.
The dome is supported by only four permanent piers, each 110 meters apart and hidden within the museum buildings, giving the impression that the dome is floating. The interior dome elevation is 29 meters from ground floor level to the underside of the interior dome cladding. The highest point of the dome is 40 meters above sea level and 36 meters above ground floor level.
The museum design is a collaboration between traditional culture and modern construction techniques. Once open, the tranquil museum environment will encourage the museum visitor to enjoy the ever-changing relationship between the sun, dome, sea, buildings and land.

Environmental:
The dome will primarily act as a shading canopy to protect the outdoor plaza and the buildings below from the heat of the sun, providing local comfort and reducing building energy consumption. This strategy allows visitors to circulate outdoors between the Museum Galleries, Exhibitions, Children’s Museum, open plaza, café and restaurant.
Passive design techniques use the natural form of buildings and inherent properties of materials to improve outside conditions. Amongst the passive techniques that have been incorporated in the design are the following:

•  Solar shading effect of dome roof and self-shading of buildings.

•  Optimised roof perforations to allow daylight without excess solar gain.

•  Exposed thermal mass such as stone floor and cladding that can benefit from nighttime cooling.

•  Light coloured and reflective materials.

•  A dome canopy to provide shelter from the sun which creates a dramatic ‘rain of light’ effect.

•  Concept is based on the traditional regional architecture, which exhibits essential sustainable design characteristics.

•  Passive water and energy conservation techniques.

•  Highly insulated and air tight building envelope

•  Highly efficient HVAC systems, lighting and sanitary fittings.

- 42% reduction in solar gain
- 27.2% reduction in energy use
- 27% reduction in water use

Energy and water metering is provided to enable monitoring of energy and water use within the building. Leak detection is also provided to flag up any unintended water use.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi design is targeting a LEED Silver rating and has achieved a 3 pearl Estidama Design Rating.
The museum’s main environmental focus is to create a comfortable micro-climate through the use of culturally-inspired passive design techniques such as:
Interior Exhibition Spaces:

The interior exhibition spaces (comprising the Museum Galleries, Exhibitions and Children’s Museum) make up 8,600 square meters. The Museum Galleries incorporate approximately 6,400 square meters and will contain a collection of 600 artworks, of which 300 loans from the French partner museums at the opening of the museum. The collection will present a universal art history narrative that encompasses a wide range of cultures, traditions and époques. The temporary exhibition space contains approximately 2,000 square meters dedicated to rotating exhibitions that will periodically provide a new subject or theme for the visitor to explore. The Children’s Museum completes the ensemble with approximately 200 square meters specially laid out for the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s youngest visitors, providing interactive exhibitions with real artworks specifically curated to be enjoyed by children.

Museum Galleries:

Louvre Abu Dhabi’s collection spans human history, emphasising exchange and shared human experience. The dialogue between artworks, manuscripts and objects in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s collection, from the most ancient to the most contemporary enables visitors to discover shared influences and intriguing connections between different cultures throughout history.
The museum trail, highlighting universal themes and common influences, transcending geography, nationality and history, begins with prehistory, the birth of civilisations and the first great empires. It explores concepts such as religion, exchange across trade routes, voyages and discoveries, the role of the individual in history and contemporary themes related to the modern period and globalisation.
Notable artworks in the collection include one of the finest examples of a standing Bactrian Princess from the end of the 3rd millennium BCE, a 3,000 year old Middle-Eastern gold bracelet with lion’s head, an 1878 painting by Osman Hamdi Bey titled A Young Emir Studying, Paul Gauguin’s masterpiece Children Wrestling , the René Magritte painting The Subjugated Reader, an 1928 collage by Picasso titled Portrait of a Lady, nine canvases by contemporary artist Cy Twombly and the most ancient known photographic representation of a veiled woman.

In the opening year, approximately 300 artworks from 13 key French institutions will be on display (see section below on partners for more details on the agreement). These will include Leonardo da Vinci’s La Belle Ferronnière and a Spanish fountain spout of a lion said to be from Monzonfrom musée du Louvre, Claude Monet’s Saint-Lazare station andEdouard Manet’s The Fife Player both from musée d’Orsay, Henri Matisse’s Still Life with Magnolia (1941) from Centre Pompidou, Globe by Vincenzo Coronelli from Bibliothèque nationale de France, a rare saltcellar in ivory from the Benin Kingdom and a Baga D’mba mask from Guinea from musée du quai Branly, or a Chinese sculpture of a blue lady from the 8th Century from musée national des arts asiatiques Guimet.

Marcelo Burlon Event at Four Seasons

Hello Readers,

I am excited to announce that I will be at Marcelo Burton Event at provocateur, Four Seasons Hotel hosted by Al Tayer Group tomorrow evening. Please check out @comeouttoplayindubai for instant videos and photos from the event!

Nando's Opening at Festival City Press Release

Dear readers,

Hope you're having a relaxing weekend. On Monday, I was invited to Nando's Grand Opening at Festival City with founder of Nando's attendance. Unfortunately, I couldn't make it but please check out the press release of the event below!!

Something special has hatched over at Dubai Festival City. Our new roost has opened its doors on the waterfront promenade and boasts stunning views, our peri delicious food and artwork from our world-wide collection.

Taking centre stage at our latest restaurant to open in the UAE, is the eagerly anticipated art installation created especially for Nando’s Dubai Festival City by international artist Kilmany-Jo. Created in South Africa, the incredible piece was shipped straight to Dubai and installed to mark the launch of this exciting new venue. The stunning artwork is a mesmerizing face in Kilmany-Jo’s signature style of portraits where although the person portrayed may not be familiar to the viewer, it creates a universally recognisable sense of familiarity. Something which ties in perfectly with the Nando’s brand.

Other artwork displayed in the restaurant has been created and sourced specifically for Nando’s UAE by up-and-coming South African artists, which demonstrates Nando’s commitment to promoting South Africa’s unique, contemporary design globally.

The new restaurant brings together a bright, welcoming feel with many of the furniture pieces and light fittings also sourced from designers in South Africa.

Just wing it and call in to enjoy a quick office lunch or a tasty treat for dinner surrounded by the stunning new artwork from South Africa, warm reclaimed wood interiors and bright, colourful art & light installations.

Devour our butterfly chicken and spicy rice which is full of flavor or maybe a wrap with our secret chilli jam and the healthy and light quinoa salad. Even egg on your friends to take part in our Wing Roulette challenge with different peri-ometer spices on our famous chicken wings – a challenge which is only for the brave.

The Nando’s chicken is marinated for over 24 hours in the tasty secret recipe for the ultimate perfection and is then given the master griller’s touch meaning it’s the ideal venue for Nando’s fandos to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal with friends and family.

For additional information on Nando’s brand new delicious meals, restaurant openings and store locations please visit www.nandos.ae or the Nando’s Facebook Page www.facebook.com/nandosuae or follow us on Instagram #NandosUAE for mouth-watering pictures or contact customer care on 600 54 25 25.

Ciao,

G

Dolce and Gabbana Store Opening and After Party

Ciao readers,

I don't know where to start! First let me start from 5pm of the day of event. I got into my car to drive to mall of emirates. I couldn't start the engine! I knew battery was dead because nothing switched on! I immediately called uber to head there!

5:10 pm, I am in the car changing into something more chic, I realised that I took french cuff instead of single cuff AND I don't carry cufflinks with me! what the FOURK!!!

5:37pm, I arrived to MOE, rushed to Paul Smith to my buy a pair of cufflinks that i don't need! I asked the sales girl to leave my office bag and work clothes for 2 hours...

5:59pm, I am in front of Dolce and Gabbana shop! I am so excited to attend to the event. I am going to meet 2 guys who changed my vision to fashion industry and made me save money to buy myself my first high end brand clothing when was 18 years old! I am a very small town boy! There were no big end shops in the city I lived!

6:20pm, by that point, bright spot lights, being nervous hits me and panic attack hit me! I started sweating like no tomorrow! One of the sales person handed me a box of tissue to wipe my face! I took half of the tissues from the box to dry my chest, forehead and soaked beard! I called a friend of mine to ask what to do. Her response was " go to toilet, get your shirt off and sit until you dry!" That was the only logical thing to do at that time! So I did! I went to disabled toilet and locked myself until I dried... and it worked! I dried my shirt under the dryer.. It wasn't a great feeling but what to do!!

6:52pm, I was back to the store! By then, there were a lot of ladies almost floating and mesmerising with dolce and gabbana dresses and shoes and accessories! Some men were in their A game in style of their suits1 Wow, everything and everyone was beautiful! Then the music stopped and cameras started to raise! there it was! They arrived! Stefano, Domenico, Anna, and 2 models! My heart started racing again! It was like a mexican wave around them, cameras, selfies, flashes, women pushing each other to meet them! I waited for a solid 10 minutes to able to approach them! When it was my turn, I leaned over Stefano and thanked him for opening my eyes to fashion world! He recorded me on his phone and shared the story with his followers later!

not a natural blush!  literally overheated!

Then I chatted with Domenico for longer and then I left! I was so contented to able to speak to them both! After 3 hours of mad experience, I collected my stuff from Paul smith store and headed to royal mirage! I honestly needed some quiet time from all the hectic work and incidents occurred along the way! I stayed for an hour and half and head back home to relax!

I want to thank Errol to send me the invitation to the event and supporting my work and believing in me!

thanks for reading! I am off to bed!! ;)

Burger and Lobster Bar Opening at Burj Daman Building

Ciao readers,

I was one of the lucky guests to be invited to burger and lobster bar opening on wednesday evening. I must say that the last time i was in burger and lobster branch at Bread str. when I was in London and had lobster sandwich! 

For those who doesn't know what the concept about that restaurant, there are 2 options... you either choose lobster or burger! it's not any other restaurant where you have chinese, japanese, middle eastern, american, peruvian, literally everything! 

Bartenders did their job at greatest!

Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 12pm-12AM (bar 2AM)
Location: Burj Daman Building, DIFC

Please find the press release for Burger and Lobster Bar Opening and please don't forget to stop by for a cheeky cocktail!!

 The guys who brought you the affordable luxury of lobster combined with a high-end burger are back with good news! The quirky London-based concept who like to keep things simple have extended their offering with the launch of the Burger and Lobster bar.

Yep, you heard that right, a brand new bar, which launched 9th November.

With too many decisions to make in life, Burger and Lobster have your back and are serving expertly handcrafted cocktails specifically to pair perfectly with your chosen Burger or Lobster dish. What more could you want?

So what’s on the menu?

1795 Cobbler – A fruity blend of Bourbon, red wine, mix berries, orange juice

B&L Snapper – Watch out for the B&L secret spice, mixed with Gin, tomato juice all topped off with celery

William Haig – A sophisticated blend of Whiskey, pear liqueur, pear puree and soda

Honey Cucumber – Sweet but refreshing; honey bourbon, cinnamon syrup, apple juice and cucumber

Tequila Rose – A Mexican feast of Tequila, apple cordial, shaken with soda

Stage Coach - Bittersweet! Grapefruit Vodka, Sauvignon Blanc, apple, elderflower syrup and green grapes

Earl of Bergamot – Traditional flavours of Gin, Rosato, Aperol, bergamot puree and cider float

Skyline Cooler – Short and sweet! Lemon infused Vodka, elderflower, toasted fennel seed syrup, Cinzano, apply juice.

Still sticking to their tried and tested formula of burgers, lobster and lobster rolls, you can even enjoy mini bar bites with your chosen tipple at the new Burger & Lobster bar. There’s a treat for everyone at Burger and Lobster!

The Mayfair Slider

Hot Mama Slider

The Original Mini Roll

Panko Breaded Lobster Popcorn

Spiced Lobster Popcorn

And if that wasn’t enough Burger and Lobster are running a Happy Hour during weekdays 6-8pm! This buzzing bar is set to be DIFC’s next go-to spot.

Cocktails – 50 AED

Mini bar bites start from 15 – 45 AED

All prices exclude 10% tax.

For reservations: +971 (0)52 521 3405
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 12pm-12AM (bar 2AM)
Location: Burj Daman Building, DIFC

Gucci Garden Party on November 16th

I am so excited to announce that I will be at Gucci Garden Event at Mall of the Emirates on Wednesday evening. I am so lucky to meet very professional people in this city to invite me to their fashion events!

Please follow me on @comeouttoplayindubai for on site pictures and instastories!

Ciao!!

Here is my after party invitation! :)

TWIST by Nescafe Event at W Hotel

Hello readers,

Since it's my blog, I want to clarify something happened between me and Ahlan team last week. I received an email for the aforementioned event saying that "this is a reminder to RSVP for the event". I received the email on monday evening. The event itself was happening on tuesday evening. So I replied to the person saying that I didn't even receive the first invitation. However, I would like to RSVP to the event. The next day, I called ITP Publishing to speak to the person. It happened to me a few times that I didn't receive the invitation and then the people from PR ask me if I am coming to their event in the evening. Then, I say I didn't receive anything from you and then they say "just come"

Anyways, While I was talking the person who sent me the invitation, I mentioned her that I got invited to Ahlan hot 100 event pass 3 years and this year I got invited Ahlan Hot 100 in Abu Dhabi when I live in dubai. I kindly asked her to pass it on my message to person in charge to look up whether there's a glitch in the invitation. This individual replied back saying he/she pass on my message.

Before telling you the end of story, I have to tell what happened with another person from ITP. So, I freelance with Pallavi Dean Interiors. Director of the company forwarded me an invitation for Conde Nast People choice award ceremony which will happen on November 14th. She asked me to come as her plus one. I sent an email to RSVP to the email mentioned. I got an email back asking where I got the email from. Then I replied saying I got it from Pallavi Dean Interiors. Then, that person replied me saying that Pallavi Dean was not on the guest list. Then, I replied saying it's not her whom forwarded me the email, it was the director forwarded me with a screenshot of the email. Then I got a phone call from my friend Pallavi asking what was going on and someone from ITP asking me if she knew me and she replied saying yes, I work for her. (THERE WAS THE PROOF!) Then, this individual replied saying that the person whom got invited was not allowed to bring plus one and forward the email. If you can't bring plus one to any event, what is the point of going? It's the worst feeling ever. Then I replied back saying that I wasn't intended to sneak in but since my colleague/friend wanted to go and she asked me to RSVP for her plus one.(I have to admit that I didn't write this in the email!). This individual made it bigger problem and she complained me to her boss.

15 mins later, I received a phone call from ITP manager telling me off and saying things like I am harassing her staff, and i must respect the guest list, and I should know my place. After she finished, I asked her to listen to my side of story but she hang up on me! I tired to call her back from the number she called but she didn't pick up! I was shocked by her level of professionalism! The way she talked to me was very attacking and rude! Excuse me but you don't own me! You can't talk to me like that! If you talk to your staff the way you spoke to me, everyone could make a complaint to your senior! You're not running the world!

I was sure that I was going to be uninvited from the event. When I arrived to W Hotel which IMPOSSIBLE to get there, no one checked whom I was. They just showed me direction to the event! Kris Fade was talking so loudly to the point I couldn't hear myself talking. The theme was off! If you're doing an event with coffee, I would expect to have coffee blended drinks! It was so humid and there was no air! Music was blasting! I spent 60 aed to get there and 58 aed to get back! I REALLY WISHED THAT I DIDN'T REPLY THE EMAIL! HONESTLY, THE ONLY REASON I RSVP'ED WAS BECAUSE I AM NEW IN THE BUSINESS AND IF I GET PICKY FROM THE BEGINNING, NO ONE WILL INVITE ME AGAIN. I MADE SURE I WAS TALKING TO PR COMPANY ORGANISED THE EVENT!

After this entry, I will probably be threatened to be used and block from all the magazine's events. Sadly, because of some unprofessional people and the way they choose their guest list, probably, I am happy to not to be invited to any of their events!

I am still expecting an apology!

Art of Dining Night by Architectural Digest

Hello readers,

I was invited to Art of Dining dinner organised by Architectural Digest. There were 12 successful interior designers from the region designed their own table. Honestly, I was expecting to be fun but after the doors opened I was beyond speechless! Every single table from glasses to cutlery, decorations to flower arrangement was designed meticulously! I was one of special guest of Pallavi Dean's table! Picture doesn't do too much of justice but I was mesmerised from their design. I was with super nice crowd! From Agatha who recently joined Pallavi Dean team, Khalid Shafar and his wife, Richard Dean (the morning show host at Dubai Eye), Alex Hirschi (the radio blondie from Dubai Eye), and two other ladies who i forgot their name!! :(

Guys! having to sit in a table with talented people and sharing ideas and exchanging experience about art, architecture and interior design was my favourite kind of night!

Pallavi Dean's Table arrangement

Khalid Sharaf's chairs

Please check out Pallavi Dean @pallavideaninsteriors on Instagram

Pallavi, thank you so much for having me at your table that night!

Burgers and Lobsters Bar Opening on November 9th

Ciao readers,

I am rather excited to check out the new Burgers and Lobsters bar at Durj Daman building on November 9th. Please follow me @comeouttoplayindubai and @stickyginger for live pics and insta-stories!

Burgers and Lobsters is franchaise restaurant from London and opening its second branch in Dubai!

Dolce&Gabbana's cocktail reception at Mall of the Emirates

Dear readers,

Until yesterday I lost hope of some people getting paid without knowing how they're doing their job! LUCKILY, I also know some very professionals in town and they remind me I should stay strong no matter how hard I struggle in a daily basis with crooks! Thank you thank you thank you Al Tayer team for having me involved in Dolce & Gabbana 's cocktail reception on November 7th!

I must go for shopping to get myself up to date Dolce and Gabbana outfit!!!

Ciao,

Downtown Design Week Review

Hello readers,

This week I volunteered to be with one of my favorite interior designer firm Pallavi Dean Interiors. Pallavi came up with her new furniture line and her debut to Dubai and International market! Let me tell about her story line. Her heritage, personal and work life influenced every single detail you see on the design. Rose gold, camel fur, lambskin, kinetic design, the utility of product were combined in a genius way and end product was breathtaking! I think you should contact Pallavi for more details!

Besides looking happy and introducing the products to VIP clients, I was the heavy guy to lift skinny girls on the other side of seesaw!

Bell chair

Svagata Console

Svagata Pouf

The Outnet and Grazia Middle East Evening Dress Pop up at Geales

Ciao readers,

I was at Geales bar at Royal Meridien Hotel for The Outnet and Grazia Middle East event. Oh my! What happened to Geales! It looks amazing with the new interior... Like many people I went there when i first came to Dubai and never went back again. I have been Maya a few times but I guess I was so boozy and doozy to notice Geales' new interior.

Back to the event, I got the chance to speak to The Outnet team for that night. There were some incredible pieces on the rack though. I couldn't help myself touching, examine the quality of dresses.

I also got to chance to meet new deputy editor of Grazia Middle East Olivia. She's also happened to be my friend Olivia's friend. I keep telling this to all my friends. I love to meet people and connecting my friends to other friends that they don't know each other. I helped a friend of mine who is in Elevate board member to connect a social queen to liaise! I am a person!

Check out theoutnet.com and Grazia's next week edition!

Gx

Ted Baker event at The Act

Hello readers,

You have most probably heard of Ted Baker event was last week. I am sorry for not writing it so sooner. Brag event and Sticky Ginger PR put their name into another great event in the town. Cabaret-esque designed restaurant The Act was on point choice to host Dubai socialites. I can't wait the winter to arrive to buy myself a decent coat from Ted Baker!

Laters followers,

FOLLOW ME on INSTAGRAM

Hey readers,

I totally understand the power of social media in the region. I am working to enhance your experience in this blog! Please press follow and turn on notifications of my instagram account @comeouttoplayindubai

G

The Outnet and Grazia Middle East Event tonight

Ciao readers,

I will be attending The Outnet ad Grazia Middle East event to celebrate designers gowns and evening dresses tonight at one of the prestigious hotels in Marina. I will be updating my instagram page live. Please follow me @comeouttoplayindubai for more!

Ciao,

Gx

Esquire Gent's Evening: The Entrepreneurs at Marina Social

A day isn't passing by without Esquire Middle East doesn't set an event for gentlemen in Dubai. The event was hold in Marina Social with extremely talented Chef Jason Atherton's canepes and talented bartenders' scotch based cocktails for a night to remember. As you may understand from the title, there was a panel with Q&A with the guests who are Petrochem founder Yogesh Mehta, Fashion Forward founder Ramzi Nakad, Plan B founder Harmeek Singh, and Charles Blaschke​. Each panelist shared their experiences how to pitch the idea of their work and convince someone to invest their business. My honest opinion is that someone else's business formula may or may not mold into everyone's business. You have to be at the right and right place with a right person. Being entrepreneur isn't an easy and finding someone to invest on your idea is double to trouble. One of the panelist said that you have 25 seconds to impress someone with your offer and make you pay! I am not sure what kind of business he's talking about but, from my knowledge you might also get STI after the service.

I want to thank Christian Louboutin for sponsoring the event and cool play card set!



​Thanks for great evening Esquire Middle East​!!

Media Mingle at YNOT

oh boy,

What a wednesday it was! I started  my first stop at YNOT bar, Intercontinental Hotel Marina. I always pass it by when I go for a run in the marina (not since April due to humidity). It's always good to know more people, exchanging ideas, meeting the key people etc. etc... I have a dozen business cards I have to write for future collaborations and possibly making friends. Sadly I was there only for 45 mins to head to my next event at Katana! You should come by and expand your networks at Media Mingle Events!


Thanks Media Network!!!

Gx

CID Awards Ceremony 2016

Ciao readers,

You might ask what the heck i was doing there on wednesday night at the ceremony! There is a simple answer to that. I happen to have many architect, interior designer friends in dubai. Unlike my other friends, they tend to live here longer than other job professions. Since I was away for 2 months during summer, this award ceremony was most like a get-together for me! I am glad I went very early to catch up with friends. Oh, two of the judges are my friends as well (Jonathan Ashmore, Laura Bielecki). Basically, I could have asked them to create an award just for me... It'd be the best mascot of the year or the best friend/character!

For those who doesn't know what CID awards is for, I am here to help you. CID (The Commercial Interior Design) Awards organized every year to celebrate projects, interior design firms and designers making their mark on the region’s interior design industry. As befitting an industry no longer in its infancy, the awards will herald work that displays original thinking, creative breadth and a willingness to stray from tried and tested formulas.

There is one remarkable award I can mention in my blog as I heard rumors about my dear friend Pallavi Dean was not voted for the best boutique firm of the year as she was "too much in public". Her firm won the best interior designer of the year for Agata Kurzela. There is never too much publicity for anyone!

Dubai Opera (Not Opera House)

Hello readers,

I am back from holidays. What a summer it was for me! I tried to escape the heat as much as I can. My first worthy to write night out was for Dubai opera house! I went to see the pearl fisher on the day after of opening. Boy, I must say traffic on Thursday in downtown is hard to bear! Anyways, from the second taxi got into dirty path of opera house, that feeling of doing something exciting for the first time like smoking for the first time, getting into plane.... the thrill!! Oh wow!!! What a moment Dubai reached where I can do something meaningful rather than spending my evening in a bar or restaurant! 

It hit me from the moment I sat in my chair and told to myself "well done to those visionary people to make this happen!" The show!!! Acoustics!!! Ambiance!! I'm speechless!

Here's the things I noticed during my visit! Bar situation! Guys, be more organized!! I paid for a glass of wine on the menu but when I went to the bar, they ran out!!! The queue to order a drink is longer than a mile! Do I have to remind you that EMAAR owns 3 running hotels? The floors weren't fitted well at the ground floor right entrance.

There's one more thing! Palm shaped island, horse shaped building, falcon shaped racecourse and now dhow shaped opera house. Dear god, please don't let anyone the idea of having camel shaped anything!!!

Tough Mudder Dubai and Dubai Foundation for Women and Children

Hello dear readers,

Hope everyone is enjoying their time in sizzling summer time in Dubai. In case you wonder.... I am back! Back to full on work mood! I have decided to put myself another goal whilst I am on vacation in 2016. I will be doing 8k obstacle run for Tough Mudder and raise 10000 AED for Dubai foundation for Women and Children.

Two years ago, I ran Spartan race and The Sandpit Run and raise 7000 AED for Alzheimer Society UK. This time, I thought it'd be good to raise awareness for Women and Children. I created an account on justgiving.com. This way, it will be much easier to donate with a few clicks WITHOUT creating any account!

Maybe you should put a goal in your life and participate in this challenge! There are two options (8k & 16k run). I will be running 8k only. Let's see how my training will go by November. I might do 16k if I feel like it.

For registrations pls check the link!!!

Please feel free to share my donation link to raise more awareness. Also Check out DFWAC's website for more info and rates.

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/george-saud

Ciao!

On vacation

Hello readers,

No I didn't disappeared! I am just taking a long vacation to North America! it's been amazing 2 weeks and there's another week to discover in the country! Hope you're having a great time wherever you're! I will be back with amazing stories once I am in the city!

Ciao!!!

G

Carter's Brunch at Pyramids Wafi

Hello all of you out there,

I got the chance to review one of the most established restaurant/bar in the city. If you lived in Dubai, its name carved into your brain... Its theme was inspired originally from the bar Raffles Hotel in Singapore (which you should see the original bar when you get a chance to visit)...

Thanks to Paz Marketing and extremely helpful Kristie for arranging to have me the restaurant review on friday.

I have to say that I didn't want to post this entry due to many reasons. I must say that this is not my writing strategy to lower your expectations from the beginning of article so you will end up not going there. Also, this is my first restaurant review so I didn’t want to start all negative!!! Allow me how my lunch went there

Carter's restaurant bar merges with 2 other restaurants (Thai Chi and Medzo) for brunch on fridays. After my arrival to the restaurant, I was escorted to my table with friendly staff. I wasn't planning to drink so I just asked for a coffee for drinks. A few minutes later, I head to buffet area to check out the options. Breakfast options are fairly good. Eggs, baked beans,  Pork sausage, and steamed mushroom. If you're cautious in your pork selection, you would know the difference between pork sausages from Europe (either English, Spanish or German which are mostly sold in the supermarket) or Asia (Philippines is the only exporter to the region). For me, I prefer the meat filled spicy sausages to small, sweet and less meat more other parts of animal limbs filled sausages. Hence, I didn't touch the sausages.

Then, headed towards to roast beef, cold cuts, and omelette station. Cold cuts are cold cuts! They're cold! You never know whether they're fresh or a day old. They can last in the air conditioned room all day. Beef roasted ribeye was overcooked. That was a bit of disappointment. Then I took a slice of honey roasted ham and surprisingly that was well cooked and moist. I also asked the chef to prepare an omelette. I think that was my favourite among all since I saw it was cooked in front of me other than eating things probably sat and heating for brunch. I am also aware that in F&B business that a day old food doesn't go waste. ;)

I wanted to save space for other restaurants' options so I kept away from cheese selection.

Then I head to Thai Chi to try out some of their options. I must say that Thai Chi has a sentimental value for me as it was the first thai food I had 8 years ago when I came to Dubai. Like many things, I am loyal to my restaurants. I assume because of brunch, most the food selection at the restaurant was cold and undercooked. I put some fried rice, green curry, papaya salad and sweet and sour chicken into my plate and walked back to my table. The papaya salad was ok but had a funny earthy after taste. The rest wasn't so great. 

Desert selection was grim and sad. I had a bite from 2 different desert selection and didn't want any more!

My second drink during my brunch was a Bloody Mary! Yes, I like my Bloody Mary! I love my tomato juice. Sometimes, after preparing a virgin one, I end up adding vodka! and yes, i enjoyed sipping Bloody Mary at the Carter's!

It seems it is an old staple to Dubai with its expat loyalty. I am really sorry for saying so many negative things but I want this review to be your wake up call for bringing your A-Game to the industry! Maybe the interior is 10 years old but your food quality shouldn't be in the same era! it's 2016!!! I want to highlight this! The lack of quality in the food is failing the staff's good service. No one came to Dubai to work in a bad places. We all left our home and family to do the best we can capable of with the a team aims to strive the best!

Weslodge Friday Cocktails by TOH PR

It was one of those fridays where I had lots to do in a 24 hours of period. I was one of the lucky invitees for cocktails at Weslodge on friday afternoon. You know you're feeling safe when the bartender asks you what drink you want based on your drink choices! Well, if you feel the same comfort with me, YOU MUST GO to Weslodge!

Seriously though! what is it with TOH PR's invitee list? Why was everyone beautiful and handsome? I am not that ugly but that day I felt I needed a couple surgery for the party!

Back to the Restaurant! Weslodge is a Canadian chain restaurant recently debut its talent to food lovers in Dubai! In addition to that, the view is breathe taking its located on the 68th floor. The drinks list is classically rooted but adventurously reinterpreted and the appetizers were like the whole concept  "dare to be different"...

Thanks Omar and TOH PR team for a great experience again!

Mr.Porter Delivers for FREEEE

Have you checked mrporter.com recently? for those don't get newsletter fro them, I should inform you that the website begin to deliver for free via DHL! I just got my Aesop Volumizing Shampoo in 3 days! It's a luxury to sit on your couch and buy your favorites with a click!! ;)

Jay The Barber at Chaps and Co

It came to my attention that I am mostly writing about the city but not me lately! I want to share my experience on Men Hair Saloon in Dubai after 8 years, I have to give you the secret of how I look well trimmed past 6 - 7 months! First thing first, get your haircut every 10 days. If the 10th day is falling on thursday, preferably don't go out or go somewhere with dimmed light so your messy hair won't take all the attention! Secondly, book Jay the Barber at Chaps and Co, JLT for your next appointments if you're living near Marina and JLT!

For bookings check their website!

The Rake Magazine 6th years Anniversary Party

Hello readers,

I wish you were with me at The Rake Middle East magazine's 6th year anniversary at R Trader. hostesses were all wearing elbow long silk black gloves and tiny fascinators. There was a live band singing random popular music in classical, old fashion style, there was a tray of cigar floating around... What the most stole my heart was the live band! Once you see one in Dubai, drop everything and listen to them! That's one of the most precious thing you can find here!

So the invitation was clear! 50's theme elegant! Why would you go to your closet and choose your white sneakers with white Tshirt and skinny jeans? This is NOT JORDIESHORE or THE ONLY WAY TO ESSEX or any other reality TV shows! There were also those fashion hoos/label queens! Hermes buckle belt (barf!!) Versace buckle sneakers with matching belt! Dude, you're in a wrong party! You're out of this world!! I got it! some brands want to keep their trademark on the consumers they're wearing! I am not your bilboard! I don't have to carry your logo after paying you thousands of dollars!

Sorry, I was too busy chatting with people and Magazine editors hence no picture of event again but I will post one of my fav cocktail of the night (after extra dirty martini! yeap, I was busy drinking it!)

Elevate yourself! Read The Rake!!!

Thanks Loretta! Thanks Christina!!

Vesna Restaurant / Lounge Soft Opening, Conrad Hotel

Hello readers,

Let me tell you what happened when I was at soft opening sit-down dining of Vesna Restaurant bar at Conrad hotel. 

I unintentionally arrived late due to my full time office job! Luckily enough, a good friend of mine asked me to join her for that night. I was in a table with lovely owner of Sophie Toh and her entourage. 

What does Vesna offer than other restaurant? First of all, it's the first Slavic cuisine in Dubai. I am pretty sure we are all bored of Asian fusion restaurants aka Westernized Asian cuisine! It's a brilliant addition to Dubai food scene!

Go Try!!!!

I didn't take this pic. Too busy enjoying the food and conversation

Nominated for Ahlan's People Choice Awards

Dear Readers,

Firstly, I want you thank you for believing in me or finding me interesting enough to check out and made me recognizable enough to get nominated for Ahlan's People's Choice Awards in the Blogger business.

Secondly, thanks a lot for all the enemies and people didn't believe in what I am passionate about. Your negative energy fed me so well so I could write more and more and more!

Sadly, I couldn't get shortlist but HEYYYYY! My blog got recognized in this market!! I will keep writing until I get the recognition I deserve...

Ciao!

Wolrd Class Competition UAE

Hello my reader/s,

I was at Embassy Club to witness UAE's finest 8 bartenders to impress jury and audience one last time for World Class competition!The UAE's greatest mixologists compete throughout the year in the industry’s most respected bartender competition, judged by bartending luminaries.

The representer James Clark who is also 4th on World Class Global in 2013 cheered the crowd during the night!

I must say that I was already hit by first drink I had at the event! I had Old fashioned cocktail with nicely cut/trimmed ice! Oh boy, I promised myself not to have another Old fashioned again!!

The winner was selected from jury whom are the toughest, best in their industry. Laura from Boca, DIFC crowned for the best bartender in UAE for 2016! Congrats you!!!

There she is!!! Laura from BOCA

If you happen to visit Boca one of those days, please congratulate her!

Thanks to Sticky Ginger PR team for an amazing night and having me to be part of it!!!

ps: I had to rest and sweat out all the booze of me on Monday and skipped one award ceremony and a bar's one year anniversary party! oh well, it was worth! ;)

AESOP - Amazing Face wash and Unisex Herbal Deodorant

I want you to stop every commercial, mainstream crap you're using and invest on your skin!

Yes, it sounds harsh entry but this is the story how I am in LOVE with a brand called AESOP!

4 years ago, I went to visit my friend in Hong Kong. When I stayed at my friend's place, I noticed those really old school lab bottle at first glance. I asked what they're for. My friend's answer was "They're AESOP. You should stop wasting your money on those commercial crap skin products and invest on your skin with these!" Now, I am telling you! you do the same!

After I found Z7 will do the PR for the brand in the region, I contacted the person in charge (Amazing Rohini). Throughout the email exchanges I sent her a picture of my AESOP stash in my bathroom counter to show how loyal I am. She arranged to give 2 products to review. Please read my review for the products below!!

I have been using AESOP amazing face wash (yes, it's freaking amazing!) for 4 years and I really like it. The fragrance make me feel like I am doing aromatherapy when I was my face. It is a very gentle cleanser for oily skin. Ingredients include Mandarin Orange Oil (an antiseptic and good for treatment of skin disorders) Ylang Ylang – Cananga Odorata Flower Oil (said to normalise sebum secretion thus avoiding skin problems) Lavender Oil (for antiseptic and calming qualities), Water (for hydration), and Sea Salt (to draw out toxins)

Here is what to expect from this deodorant!

Aroma? Fresh and herbaceous
Product texture? Evaporative mist
Skin feel? Deodorised, reassured

The unisex deodorant spray has a subtle fresh, herbaceous aroma, is aluminium-free and made with a botanically based formula containing Zinc Ricinoleate and a blend of essential oils including Rosemary, Sage and Eucalyptus.

Now go and buy what I say! ;)

Bong's surprise 50th birthday party at Wakame

Bong Guerrero! Entrepreneur, CEO and founder Fashion Forward and Brag Events! There are a lot of PR companies to map their business in this city and Brag Events is the biggest in town! I met Bong a few years ago via his godson. We went to White Dubai for Design District Party.

I was one of 400 lucky invitees to be in his surprise (probably not so surprise as someone may have slipped) 50th birthday party in Sofitel Downtown Hotel on Friday.Bloggers, models, magazine editors, close friends... 

It is always good to be a friend's good and bad days! In professional career, I can tell without hesitation that Bong is one of the nicest person I met in the business.

Speaking of the party, you should definitely try Wakame's cocktails! Don't forget to put it on your to visit list in Dubai!

#Bong50

Zadig and Voltaire Event at Frioul

Hello readers,

It's getting HOT in here lately! I have changed my pace to walk on the streets since the temperatures are rising... On wednesday night, I attended another event hosted by great The Qode Event for Zadig and Voltaire FW2016 at Frioul. Since the brand is Parisian, the venue was chosen right on spot! Party took place at Frioul in Souk Madinat....

For those doesn't know the owner Zadie & Voltaire, allow me enlighten you a bit.. The brand was established by Andre Giller who is nephew of the founder of company Lacoste!

Zadig & Voltaire emphasise chic street style with touch of rock and punk! You can see skull and wing prints in their design. Whereas for women, it's very bohemic!

I have to honest! Pop trash music is my least favourite music unless I listen to it from a good band or unplugged! It's very rare that events in Dubai are hosted with a decent band! Lucky enough, I was there to listen this great band...

You should check out Zadig & Voltaire shop in Dubai mall in Fashion avenue!!!

Mrs. Keepa FW016 Launch Party at Indie

Dear Reader,

Hello again! I attended Mrs. Keepa Fashion Deput for FW016 event at Indie on past Monday. Let me tell you about Indie a little bit first... Indie is located formerly Gaucho's bar and lounge area. I have already checked their menu and tasted their scrumptious cocktails. If you're jaded from many bars and restaurants you have been in the city, Indie is "THE PLACE" to visit.

Now back to the star of the night. Mariam Yehia! She's Egyptian born Dubai living talented fashion designer who brings bohemian chic to her line and she did it in her last collection in very best way. When I was watching her runway show, I immediately noticed the craftsmanship and line she's put in this collection. At first glance, you might think it reminded you of classic Gucci outfits. (ps: Please read Alessandro Michelle's Gucci rebranding debut). If I can describe her collection in a few words, they could be colorful, feminine, bohemian, and affordable.

You can reach her via her Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/mrskeepa/

Dyson Pure Cool Launch Event at Zero Gravity

Hello follower/s or to the voice in my head,

I was an eventzilla on wednesday evening. First event I went was the Dyson Pure Cool Air purifier event was held at Zero Gravity! The Brand manager whom I spoke to after the presentation told me that they're opening Dubai Branch for Dyson had a detailed presentation for the product. I am pretty sure most of people living here suffering from bad air quality. If you haven't checked the air quality reports in Dubai, you should do your research. Particulate matter (PM) is reaching up (quote on quote) to 10 which means we are breathing chunk of dust. With this product, air quality in the room will increase massively! You really should check it out!

From the event