A mini guide to what’s hot and what’s new in Dubai this month
Hello, April! And hello heat! We had rain, I even felt cold… and now there’s no doubt that summer is definitely on its way. With one term of school left before the summer holidays, this year is flying by already. This month is all about seeking out the last of the outdoors before it really gets too sweaty out there. It’s about spending time as a family every weekend – especially if, like me, you don’t get to see the other half much during the week. And it’s about cooling off when you do get a bit hot and bothered in a few of the best new eateries and family-friendly cafés around. I’m also really excited to share news of some fab new stores and brands that have made their way to Dubai and that are bound to become mama faves. Here are a few of the things and places I’m loving this month. ENJOY!
Buying…
Everything at Beach Hut Dubai. From quirky home accessories (hello, neon lights!) to fab floaties for the pool and literally everything you need to hit the beach in style (for the whole fam) – this cool collection now has a physical space at Dubai Garden Center. Just another reason to visit!
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Overhauling…
My entire wardrobe in preparation for the opening of & Other Stories in Dubai Mall. I literally cannot contain my excitement that this fabulous brand (part of the H&M group) is finally here (almost… opening on Wednesday, 19 April, 2017!). If you’re not familiar with & Other Stories, then here’s the thing: You will want everything in the store. Trust me. From shoes and bags to fashion, beauty and home accessories all with a great attention to detail and without a whopping price tag (hooray!), their creative ateliers in Paris and Stockholm design the most beautiful pieces that’ll transform your outfits. Bye-bye boring old clothes and same/same stuff – I’m off to & Other Stories!
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De-stressing…
At AVEDA in the Galleria Mall where you can have a mani/pedi in a chair that lies almost flat, surrounded by greenery while also enjoying a complimentary add on (quick facial, little massage etc.). This has to be my favourite pampering spot in Dubai. And as for the products? Amazing. The newly launched Tulasara range will visibly transform your skin in days (actually mine looked and felt better after one application!). Based on the principals of Ayurveda and using all of the benefits of plant power, these products are the ultimate in skincare – packed with goodness, backed by science and simply divine.
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Caffeinating…
At The Surf House in Umm Suqeim. Not to be confused with The Surf Café (which is also great…), The Surf House is a destination for everyone who’s obsessed with the water and the beach, and it now has the most fabulous café as part of it’s California-cool set up in a big beach villa just near the Burj Al Arab beach. Whether you want to rent a SUP, sign your kids up for surf lessons, browse some fab beachwear or enjoy coffee on tap (seriously… on tap – mama heaven?!), this is one of the most brilliant spaces I’ve found recently. And it’s run by a very sassy dad too.
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Lunching…
Al fresco in the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour where the ex Head Chef from Zengo has created 3 Fils, a tiny little eatery serving up really quirky and very delicious dishes. There are a few tables outside from which to watch the boats come in and out as you munch on sashimi, octopus, beef tartare and lots of little sharing dishes with an Asian influence. The menu is playful – expect surprises (edible stones, anyone?) and a tonne of flavour. It’s unlicensed but that’s more than okay when the food and setting is this creative.
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Planning..
A trip to Sri Lanka, and specifically to the Water Garden Sigiriya via super sassy tour operator Scott Dunn. If, like me, you’ve been scrolling through everyone’s gorgeous Spring Break Sri Lanka pics, this is one place you need to get on your wanderlust list. An oasis of natural beauty in the heart of The Cultural Triangle, inspired by the ancient water gardens of Sigiriya – expect luxury in a very open and natural setting with the mountainous Sigiriya Rock Fortress as your backdrop. Heavenly.
Loving…
The new Nine West collection for little girls (just another excuse to go shoe shopping with my daughter!). From sneakers to sandals and even mini-heeled sparkly Mary-Janes (no, I didn’t let her have those) and handbags (yes, I did let her have one of these), this collection is cute and affordable.
www.facebook.com/NineWestArabia
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