Panerai Gives the Submersible a New Edge

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The iconic diving collection welcomes its first 44mm model with a metal bracelet, combining professional capability with everyday versatility.

Shereen Shabnam

For decades, Panerai has built its reputation on creating uncompromising instruments for life at sea. With the launch of the new Submersible PAM01756, the Italian watchmaker adds a fresh dimension to one of its most recognisable collections by introducing, for the first time, a 44mm Submersible fitted with a stainless-steel bracelet.

While the addition of a bracelet may appear to be a subtle evolution, it significantly broadens the watch’s appeal, transforming it from a purpose-built diving instrument into a luxury sports watch equally at home beneath a wetsuit or a tailored cuff.

Inside beats Panerai’s P.980 automatic calibre, offering a generous three-day power reserve and incorporating a stop-seconds function for precise time synchronisation, a practical feature rooted in the brand’s long-standing military heritage. The movement is also tested in six different positions to ensure dependable chronometric performance under a variety of conditions.

The 44mm case is crafted from corrosion-resistant AISI 316LVM stainless steel, chosen for its strength and durability, while a polished blue ceramic unidirectional bezel adds both visual depth and exceptional scratch resistance. Designed for timing dives, the bezel remains one of the watch’s defining functional elements, reinforcing its credentials as a genuine professional instrument.

One of the PAM01756’s most striking design decisions is what Panerai chose to leave out. There is no date window, allowing the dial to remain clean, balanced and entirely focused on timekeeping. It is a deliberate nod to the brand’s historic military watches, where simplicity and readability always took precedence over unnecessary complications.

The black sun-brushed dial enhances that clarity with remarkable effect. Fine radial brushing creates a dynamic play of light, while generous applications of Super-LumiNova® ensure excellent visibility in every environment. Panerai also continues its distinctive colour-coded lume system, with the hour markers glowing green while the minute hand and bezel marker illuminate in blue, making elapsed dive time instantly distinguishable in low-light conditions.

At nine o’clock, the small seconds display features an intricate azurage finish, adding subtle texture while serving an important functional role. Historically, the constantly moving seconds hand allowed divers to verify instantly that the watch was still operating during critical missions.

Performance remains at the heart of the Submersible. Water resistant to 50 BAR (500 metres), every watch undergoes pressure testing at Panerai’s manufacture in Neuchâtel to standards exceeding its official rating by 25 per cent.

The new bracelet further strengthens the watch’s everyday credentials. Inspired by the signature crown-protecting bridge, its sculptural links combine polished and brushed finishes for a distinctive architectural look. Panerai has also introduced its Quick Length Adjustment system to the Submersible line for the first time, allowing wearers to extend the bracelet by 2mm on each side without tools, ensuring a comfortable fit as wrist size naturally changes throughout the day.

The Submersible PAM01756 successfully bridges Panerai’s rich naval heritage with contemporary luxury sports watch design. Rugged enough for professional diving yet refined enough for everyday wear, it represents a thoughtful evolution of one of the brand’s most celebrated collections, proving once again that true functionality never goes out of style.

Gifts for Him: Timeless Expressions of Style from Mouawad

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By Natasha Dury

Some gifts are chosen for the moment. Others are selected to become part of a lifetime. Mouawad’s curated collection for gentlemen celebrates refined craftsmanship, timeless elegance and enduring quality, making each piece a meaningful expression of appreciation, achievement or personal style.

For more than a century, Mouawad has created exceptional jewellery and luxury accessories that combine artistry with heritage. Every creation reflects meticulous attention to detail, precision and an unwavering commitment to excellence, resulting in pieces designed to be treasured for generations.

Whether marking a personal milestone, celebrating success or simply recognising someone special, the Maison presents a distinguished selection of gifts for the modern gentleman. From sophisticated rings and elegant timepieces to handcrafted prayer beads and refined writing instruments, each creation embodies confidence, character and understated luxury.

Designed for men who appreciate exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design, every Mouawad piece balances tradition with contemporary elegance. These are gifts that transcend trends, becoming lasting companions that reflect both personal style and meaningful moments.

Luxury is ultimately about legacy and not simply what we own, but what we choose to value and preserve. With creations that honour heritage while embracing modern sophistication, Mouawad continues to offer gifts that are as enduring as the men who wear them.

A Boutique Escape in the Heart of Brussels

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Fresh from an extensive redesign, 9Hotel Chelton combines contemporary interiors, wellness facilities and an enviable location, making it an appealing base for both business and leisure travellers exploring the Belgian capital.

Brussels is often celebrated for its grand architecture, world-class museums and thriving European business district, yet tucked away just moments from the city’s political heart is a boutique hotel that offers a quieter, more relaxed way to experience the Belgian capital.

Reopened following an extensive redesign, 9Hotel Chelton presents a contemporary retreat where thoughtful design meets everyday comfort. Located near Brussels-Schuman station and the elegant Square Ambiorix, the four-star property enjoys easy access to both the city’s European institutions and many of its cultural attractions, making it equally suited to business travellers and weekend explorers.

The interiors, reimagined by renowned designer Bruno Borrione, embrace clean lines, warm textures and understated elegance. The hotel’s 49 guestrooms blend the welcoming atmosphere of a country residence with the convenience expected of a modern city hotel, creating spaces that feel both comfortable and refined.

One of the property’s standout features is its wellness offering. Guests can unwind in the indoor swimming pool, recharge in the fitness area or enjoy the sensory showers after a day spent discovering Brussels or attending meetings nearby. A 24-hour honesty bar adds to the relaxed atmosphere, while dedicated coworking spaces and business facilities cater to professionals looking for a productive yet comfortable environment.

Mornings begin with a generous continental breakfast featuring freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruit, eggs, juices and quality coffee, providing an ideal start before heading out to explore the city or attend appointments.

Behind the property is the family-owned 9Hotel Collection, whose hospitality heritage stretches back four generations. Today, the group operates a collection of boutique hotels across several European capitals, each distinguished by individual character, contemporary design and a welcoming approach to hospitality.

For travellers seeking a stylish boutique address that balances convenience with comfort, 9Hotel Chelton is one of those understated discoveries worth adding to the Brussels shortlist. Whether visiting for business, a cultural city break or simply passing through one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals, it offers a contemporary base from which to experience the city at a more relaxed pace.

The Art of Individuality

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CRN’s Project Thunderball is a masterclass in bespoke yacht building, where timeless design meets engineering excellence.

Shereen Shabnam

There are yachts that impress with their size, others with extravagant amenities, and then there are those that quietly redefine what bespoke yacht building can achieve. Project Thunderball belongs firmly in the latter category.

Recently launched at CRN’s renowned superyacht shipyard in Ancona, Italy, the 70-metre full-custom superyacht represents far more than another addition to the water. It is the latest expression of CRN’s philosophy that every yacht should be conceived as a singular work of art, shaped entirely around its owner’s vision while showcasing the finest traditions of Italian craftsmanship and naval engineering.

Constructed in steel and aluminium, Project Thunderball reflects years of collaboration between CRN’s in-house specialists, Dutch design studio Vripack Yacht Design and the acclaimed Italian firm Nauta. Together, they have created a yacht where architecture, engineering and design exist in complete harmony.

From the first glance at the design, Thunderball projects quiet confidence. Her elongated bow, graceful profile and uninterrupted surfaces evoke the timeless elegance of classic yachts, while subtle contemporary detailing ensures she feels thoroughly modern rather than nostalgic. The flowing lines draw inspiration from sailing yachts, giving the vessel a sense of movement even when perfectly still.

What makes Thunderball particularly appealing is the seamless dialogue between interior and exterior spaces. Rather than treating them as separate environments, the designers have carried proportions, materials and visual rhythms throughout the yacht, creating an experience that feels remarkably cohesive. Outdoor lounges naturally transition into sophisticated living spaces, while carefully selected materials reinforce an atmosphere of understated luxury instead of excess.

Inside, the design embraces longevity over fashion. Nauta’s interiors celebrate maritime heritage through a contemporary lens, balancing refined detailing with inviting comfort. Every material, finish and technical solution was selected in close consultation with the owner, ensuring the yacht remains deeply personal rather than simply luxurious.

Accommodation has been designed for both privacy and hospitality, with an owner’s suite complemented by five spacious VIP guest cabins for up to twelve guests. A dedicated crew of fifteen is accommodated across nine cabins, ensuring impeccable service while maintaining the discretion expected aboard a yacht of this calibre.

Beyond aesthetics, Thunderball reflects the growing importance of intelligent engineering in modern yacht construction. Beneath her elegant profile lies a sophisticated Energy Storage System capable of optimising onboard power management, reducing fuel consumption and enabling silent operation while at anchor. These innovations not only improve efficiency but also enhance the onboard experience by delivering quieter, more environmentally conscious cruising without compromising comfort.

Throughout the build, Y.CO acted as the owner’s representative and project management team, overseeing every stage of construction and ensuring the owner’s vision remained central from concept to completion.

At 70 metres with a beam of 11 metres and a gross tonnage of 1,100 GT, Thunderball possesses impressive scale, yet her greatest achievement lies not in her dimensions but in the restraint with which they have been executed. Rather than relying on dramatic styling or extravagant features to capture attention, the yacht celebrates balance, proportion and craftsmanship.

I have followed the work of CRN closely for over 19 years when writing for the Millionaire Group and find their dedication to bespoke yachts exquisite. Their heritage of building fully bespoke superyachts spans more than six decades, and Project Thunderball continues a tradition of creating yachts that are impossible to replicate. Every line, every space and every engineering decision has been developed exclusively for one owner, resulting in a vessel that reflects not only exceptional design, but an individual personality.

The Soul of Gulf Craft

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How Mohammed Hussein Alshaali built a world-class yacht brand with a culture of passion, purpose and people.

Words By Shereen Shabnam

There are people you interview because of their title, and there are people you genuinely look forward to meeting because, regardless of how successful they become, they never seem to change.

For more than two decades, I have had the privilege of sitting down with Mohammed Hussein Alshaali at the many Dubai International Boat Shows. During that time, I have watched Gulf Craft evolve from an ambitious Emirati yacht builder into one of the world’s most respected names in luxury yachting.

Every year the yachts become larger, the technology more advanced and the international audience more impressive. Yet one thing has remained remarkably consistent. Mohammed welcomes everyone with the same warm smile, the same quiet confidence and the same humility that first struck me all those years ago.

This year’s conversation felt particularly fitting. It came after walking through the spectacular new Majesty 145, a yacht that perfectly illustrates how far Gulf Craft has come. Every detail reflects decades of refinement, craftsmanship and innovation. Yet as impressive as the yacht is, spending time with the man behind it reminds me that Gulf Craft’s greatest achievement has never simply been the yachts themselves. It has been the philosophy that created them.

Few people have successfully navigated two careers as different as international diplomacy and luxury yacht building. Before dedicating himself fully to Gulf Craft, Mohammed spent more than three decades representing the UAE on the global stage, serving as Ambassador to the United States, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and, remarkably, becoming the youngest President of the UN Security Council during his diplomatic career.  

One might assume that diplomacy and yacht building have little in common. Mohammed sees it differently. He says, “In life, communication is important. In diplomacy, communication is everything. In business, it is exactly the same.”

It is a deceptively simple observation, but perhaps it explains why Gulf Craft has always been as much about relationships as it has been about engineering. The company’s success has never been built solely on beautiful yachts, but on the trust it has cultivated with owners, designers, suppliers and partners around the world.

Listening to Mohammed speak about Gulf Craft, it quickly becomes apparent that he rarely talks about himself. Instead, he talks about learning. “When we started, we were learning how to build. We were learning about the market. We were learning about everything. Those early years were not driven by vast financial resources or decades of experience. They were fuelled by something far more powerful. The biggest capital we had was enthusiasm and passion.”

More than forty years later, he believes that very little has changed. “Everybody comes here because of their passion. If you don’t love what you do, you simply won’t stay.”

It is a philosophy that resonates throughout Gulf Craft today. Walking through its facilities, there is a sense that every yacht represents thousands of hours of craftsmanship by people who genuinely care about what they are creating. It is an attitude that cannot be manufactured and certainly cannot be copied.

That passion is perhaps most evident in Gulf Craft’s unique approach to building. Rather than relying heavily on external suppliers, the company has invested in creating much of its production capability in-house. “We build everything ourselves,” Mohammed explains. “Steel, electronics, composite work and more.”

Today, Gulf Craft operates five specialised companies supporting different aspects of production, allowing it to control quality, delivery schedules and costs while ensuring owners ultimately benefit from that integration. The strategy was born not from convenience, but from necessity.

“When you start an industry like this in a country that had no such industry, every challenge becomes an opportunity.” Those challenges taught Gulf Craft to innovate, adapt and continuously improve. Looking back, Mohammed views those difficult early years not as obstacles but as the very foundation upon which the company was built.

That willingness to invest for the long term continues today. Alongside its expanding yacht portfolio, Gulf Craft has recently opened new service and  manufacturing facility, capable of maintaining yachts of up to 80 metres, while also expanding its presence in the Maldives with a dedicated marina and service operation. Despite global economic uncertainty and geopolitical challenges affecting international deliveries, Mohammed remains characteristically optimistic.

Walking through the Majesty 145 before our conversation, it became clear that this optimism is well placed. Every space onboard reflects decades of accumulated experience, not only in engineering, but in understanding how owners want to live, entertain and relax on the water.

“So many experiences have come together in this yacht,” Mohammed says. “Our experience, our designers’ experience, our people’s experience and the market’s experience.”

Perhaps the strongest endorsement came before the yacht had even entered the water. Gulf Craft had already secured three sales based solely on the design drawings, a remarkable achievement in today’s highly competitive superyacht market.  

While innovation and craftsmanship have undoubtedly propelled Gulf Craft onto the global stage, Mohammed returns repeatedly to one subject that matters more than anything else: people.

“Our team is the soul of the company.” It is a statement that feels entirely genuine.

He believes owners return not simply because they appreciate the yachts, but because they trust the people behind them. Beautiful designs attract attention, but lasting relationships build loyalty. “People come back because they have a relationship with the team.”

The biggest capital we have is enthusiasm and passion.

In an industry where luxury is often measured in materials, finishes and technology, Mohammed measures success differently. For him, culture has become Gulf Craft’s greatest competitive advantage.

That perspective may well explain why, after more than four decades, Gulf Craft continues to evolve while remaining unmistakably true to its roots. It has become one of the few yacht builders capable of competing confidently on the world stage while proudly retaining its Emirati identity.

Recognition has naturally followed. From building one of the world’s largest composite superyachts to receiving international accolades, including the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 Boat Builder Awards, Gulf Craft’s journey mirrors the remarkable growth of the UAE itself.  

When I ask Mohammed what legacy he hopes to leave behind, his answer is telling. “I want this company to always be considered one of the best yacht builders in the world.”

Noticeably absent is any mention of being the biggest. Instead, he speaks about reputation, excellence and earning the respect of customers, designers, suppliers and classification societies alike. It is an ambition rooted not in scale but in quality.

As our conversation comes to an end, I reflect on something I have observed over more than twenty years of meeting Mohammed at boat shows around the world. The yachts have grown larger. The company has expanded globally. The awards have accumulated. Yet the man himself has remained remarkably unchanged. He is still approachable. Still gracious. Still genuinely interested in people.

The Majesty 145 may represent the latest chapter in Gulf Craft’s remarkable journey, but perhaps the company’s greatest achievement is measured in the culture Mohammed Hussein Alshaali has quietly built over four decades. A culture where passion matters more than prestige, relationships matter more than transactions, and success is never claimed by one individual but shared with an entire team.

The Perfect Dubai Staycation

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Celebrating life’s special moments at InterContinental Dubai Festival City

By Shereen Shabnam

Some hotels quietly become part of the memories you create there. My recent two-night stay at InterContinental Dubai Festival City was exactly that. It was for a birthday celebration for my husband the experience reminded me why some hotels continue to stand out, not through extravagance alone, but through genuine hospitality and thoughtful experiences.

Despite having visited the property countless times over the years for events and meetings, staying as a guest offered a completely different perspective. It allowed me to appreciate not only the hotel’s elegant surroundings but also the seamless way it blends luxury, convenience and warm service.

One of the first things that captures your attention is the setting. Overlooking Dubai Creek, the hotel enjoys one of the city’s most relaxing waterfront locations. During the day, the ever-changing views across the water create a welcome sense of calm, while evenings bring the spectacular IMAGINE light and laser show, transforming the creek into a vibrant canvas of colour and music. Watching the reflections dance across the water from the comfort of the hotel adds a memorable touch to the experience.

The rooms reflect the understated elegance that has long defined the InterContinental brand. Spacious, beautifully maintained and thoughtfully designed, they provide a comfortable retreat after a busy day. Floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the waterfront setting, allowing natural light to fill the room while framing the city skyline beyond.

For me, however, memorable hotel stays are often defined by the people rather than the facilities, and this was especially true at Anise, where breakfast became one of the highlights of our stay.

The extensive buffet offers an impressive journey through international cuisines, with freshly prepared dishes, vibrant fruit selections, artisan pastries and made-to-order favourites catering to every palate. The genuine warmth of the team wss what I loved most. Every interaction felt personal, attentive and sincere, creating an atmosphere that encouraged guests to slow down, enjoy another cup of coffee and savour the morning rather than simply rushing through breakfast.

Dinner at Karam Al Bahr proved equally memorable. Known for its seafood cuisine, the restaurant delivers beautifully prepared dishes that celebrate the freshness of the ingredients without unnecessary complexity. From perfectly grilled seafood to authentic flavours inspired by the Mediterranean coast, the meal offered a fitting centrepiece for our celebration. We also had dinner the next day at Vista which had great food, great views and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

One of the hotel’s greatest advantages is its direct connection to Dubai Festival City Mall. Without stepping outdoors, we had immediate access to an excellent mix of international retail brands, cafés and entertainment. I am a big fan of Marks and Spensers so enjoyed some retail therapy, had a leisurely afternoon stroll through the mall and loved the convenience of having everything within easy reach.

It is this combination of luxury accommodation, outstanding dining, genuine hospitality and effortless convenience that makes InterContinental Dubai Festival City so appealing. I found it perfect for a romantic celebration and a family staycation as my daughter was with us for the stay. It was a great weekend escape without leaving the city.

As someone fortunate enough to experience many hotels around the world, I have learned that true luxury is rarely defined solely by beautiful rooms or impressive architecture. It is found in the warmth of the welcome, the attentiveness of the staff and the moments that leave you smiling long after you have checked out and the InterContinental Dubai Festival City delivered all of those moments during our stay.

Elegant, Practical and Emotionally Appealing

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The all-new Audi Q3 builds on everything that has made the four rings perfect for premium everyday driving.

Shereen Shabnam

Owning an Audi has taught me that the brand’s greatest strength is in its engineering, design and consistency. Having spent years behind the wheel of my own Audi TT which my daughter drives now, I have come to appreciate the understated confidence that defines every model wearing the four rings. Audi has never relied on unnecessary drama; instead, it quietly perfects the details that make every journey more rewarding.

The all-new new generation Audi Q3 embodies that philosophy beautifully. More expressive in its design, more digital inside and more refined on the road, it evolves one of Audi’s most successful SUVs while remaining true to the qualities that have made the brand a favourite among discerning drivers. Whether navigating city streets, embarking on weekend escapes or tackling long motorway journeys, the Q3 delivers a premium experience that feels both contemporary and reassuringly familiar.

Exterior

The latest Q3 adopts a noticeably more confident presence. A wider Singleframe grille, sharply sculpted bodywork and slimmer lighting signatures create a stronger visual identity, while muscular shoulders give the SUV a more athletic stance without compromising its elegance.

Audi’s renowned attention to detail is evident throughout. The latest Digital Matrix LED headlights featuring micro-LED technology not only enhance visibility but also introduce intelligent lighting functions that improve driver awareness. At the rear, optional digital OLED lighting and illuminated Audi rings create a sophisticated signature after dark, ensuring the Q3 is instantly recognisable from every angle.

Interior

Step inside and the transformation is immediately apparent. Audi has embraced a more immersive digital environment centred around its beautifully integrated panoramic digital stage, where a curved 12.8-inch MMI touchscreen and 11.9-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit place every essential function naturally within the driver’s field of vision. The redesigned steering column frees valuable centre console space, creating a cleaner and more practical cabin, while premium materials and ambient lighting reinforce Audi’s reputation for understated luxury.

Versatility remains one of the Q3’s greatest strengths. Sliding rear seats, adjustable backrests and generous luggage capacity make the SUV equally suited to growing families, business professionals and weekend adventurers. Acoustic glazing for the front side windows, introduced for the first time in this segment, also contributes to a noticeably quieter cabin, particularly during longer highway journeys.

Technology

Technology continues to be one of Audi’s defining strengths, and the all-new Q3 demonstrates just how seamlessly innovation can enhance everyday driving. The intuitive infotainment system integrates effortlessly with the driver’s digital lifestyle, while voice controls and smartphone connectivity make accessing navigation, media and communication simple and distraction-free.

Audi’s latest driver assistance systems work discreetly in the background to enhance confidence rather than overwhelm the driving experience. Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane change assist, park assist, reverse assistant and fatigue monitoring combine to create an intelligent safety ecosystem that supports drivers across both urban and motorway environments.

Performance

The Q3 has always been more about confidence than outright performance, and the latest generation continues that approach with greater refinement. The 150 hp TFSI engine provides smooth, responsive performance ideally suited to everyday driving, while the more powerful 204 hp TFSI quattro offers stronger acceleration and enhanced stability thanks to Audi’s legendary all-wheel-drive system. Paired with the seven-speed S tronic transmission, power delivery feels seamless and composed across varying road conditions.

Suspension tuning successfully balances ride comfort with engaging handling, while progressive steering delivers reassuring precision through tighter city streets before settling into confident stability at motorway speeds. Like every Audi I have driven, the Q3 inspires confidence rather than demanding attention. It simply gets everything right.

Our Verdict

Audi has always excelled at producing vehicles that blend engineering excellence with understated sophistication, and the latest Q3 continues that tradition with a more expressive design, a beautifully executed digital cabin and technology that genuinely enhances everyday life.

Perhaps my years of Audi ownership make me appreciate these qualities more than most. Living with an Audi has shown me that the true appeal of the brand lies in the way every detail works together to create a car that feels as satisfying on day one as it does years later. The all-new Q3 carries that same philosophy into the premium SUV segment. Elegant, practical and quietly confident.

A Journey Through Time, One Gallery at a Time

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Discovering the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi through Gen Z Eyes

By Natasha Dury

I have a habit that surprises people whenever I travel. While some visitors plan their itineraries around shopping districts or beach clubs, I look for museums and experience centres. They tell me more about a destination than almost anything else, revealing its history, culture and ambition in ways that stay with me long after I’ve returned home.

When my mum and I visited the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi with our best friends, we both expected to enjoy it. What we didn’t expect was to experience it so differently. After about two hours of exploring, mum was ready to relax with a coffee, convinced she had seen the highlights. I was only just getting started and went along with my friends to see more.

Five hours later, I was still moving through the galleries, revisiting exhibits, reading every information panel and discovering details I had missed the first time around. Every corner seemed to reveal another story, another scientific discovery or another reminder of just how extraordinary our planet really is. For me, that is what makes a great museum. It does n’ot simply display objects; it creates curiosity.

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi has been designed as an immersive journey rather than a collection of exhibits. From the moment you step inside, you are encouraged to explore at your own pace. The spaces flow naturally from one discovery to the next, making it easy to lose track of time as millions of years of Earth’s history unfold around you.

As someone who genuinely enjoys learning, I loved that the museum never felt overwhelming. The storytelling is engaging, the displays are beautifully presented and the interactive elements make complex subjects accessible without ever feeling like a classroom lesson. Instead, every gallery invites you to ask questions, explore further and appreciate the incredible diversity of life that has shaped our world.

One of the things I appreciated most was that there was no pressure to rush. Unlike many attractions where visitors move quickly from one highlight to the next, this museum rewards curiosity. The longer you spend here, the more connections you begin to make between geology, evolution, wildlife and the future of our natural environment.

It reminded me that the best travel experiences aren’t always about seeing more—they’re about understanding more.

I think that’s something many people in my generation value. We don’t just want photographs of the places we visit; we want experiences that leave us with new perspectives. Museums have become destinations in their own right because they combine education, technology, storytelling and design in ways that feel engaging rather than traditional.

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi captures that perfectly. It encourages visitors of every age to slow down, look closer and discover something unexpected. Whether you’re fascinated by prehistoric life, the evolution of our planet or the remarkable ecosystems that continue to shape it today, there is always another detail waiting to be uncovered.

By the time I finally met Mum again, I could not stop talking about everything she had missed while enjoying her coffee. We laughed about how differently we had approached exactly the same museum, yet both walked away inspired in our own way.

Perhaps that is the museum’s greatest achievement. It doesn’t ask visitors to experience it in a particular way. Whether you spend two hours exploring the highlights or five hours immersing yourself in every gallery, it rewards your curiosity.

As for me, I already know I will be back. Because somehow, I still don’t think I have seen everything.

Georgia on a Plate

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A culinary journey through one of the world’s most generous kitchens

By Shereen Shabnam

Long before Georgia became known for its dramatic mountain landscapes and charming historic towns, it had already perfected one of the world’s most comforting cuisines. Every meal feels like an invitation to linger, every table seems designed for sharing, and every recipe carries generations of tradition.

Having travelled through Tbilisi, Kakheti and Kutaisi in the past and recently, I quickly realised that Georgian food is not about elaborate presentation or culinary theatre. Instead, it celebrates fresh ingredients, family recipes and bold, honest flavours. Whether dining in elegant restaurants or traditional family homes, every meal reflected the country’s remarkable hospitality.

One of my most memorable lunches was at Kneina in Kutaisi, a beautiful old Georgian house run by a welcoming mother-and-son team. The setting was as memorable as the meal itself. Homemade dishes arrived one after another, each prepared with obvious pride and the kind of warmth that only family kitchens seem capable of producing.

Throughout my journey, I found myself constantly surprised by the freshness of every ingredient. Crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, creamy cheeses and perfectly grilled seafood appeared on almost every table. One afternoon, a beautifully grilled salmon accompanied by seasonal vegetables reminded me that Georgian cuisine is far more diverse than many travellers expect. Another meal featured a delicate pear salad combining crisp fruit, fresh greens, soft cheese and toasted nuts, balancing sweetness with savoury flavours in a wonderfully refreshing way.

Then there were the pastries. Georgia’s bakeries are impossible to resist. The aroma of freshly baked bread drifts through almost every town, tempting visitors to stop “just for one” before inevitably leaving with several. We stopped by the road side and had fresh bread staright out of the oevn with cheese and fresh tomatoes.

Later in the day, we learnt how to bake bread traditionally as well. Traditional Georgian breads deserve special mention. Baked inside deep clay ovens called tone, they emerge with crisp golden crusts and wonderfully chewy centres. Warm from the oven, they require little more than a generous spoonful of local butter or one of Georgia’s many delicious dips.

The country’s most famous creation is undoubtedly khachapuri, Georgia’s beloved cheese-filled bread. Every region prepares it differently. The iconic Adjarian version arrives shaped like a boat, filled with bubbling cheese, butter and a rich egg yolk waiting to be stirred together before tearing off pieces of warm bread. It is indulgent, comforting and absolutely worth every calorie.

Another bakery favourite is lobiani, a soft bread generously filled with seasoned mashed beans. Less internationally known than khachapuri, it offers an equally satisfying taste of Georgian home cooking and makes an ideal snack while exploring cities on foot.

Speaking of dips, they quickly became one of my favourite discoveries. Rich walnut-based spreads feature prominently throughout Georgian cuisine, seasoned with garlic, herbs and gentle spices that add depth without overwhelming the palate. Alongside them came creamy vegetable purées, roasted aubergine preparations and vibrant herb pastes, each perfect for scooping up with freshly baked bread.

Vegetarians will find themselves exceptionally well catered for. Georgia celebrates vegetables rather than treating them as side dishes. Aubergines rolled around fragrant walnut fillings, colourful salads bursting with herbs, roasted peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers and seasonal greens appeared throughout my travels, each reflecting the country’s respect for fresh local produce.

One dish I particularly enjoyed was pkhali, an assortment of finely chopped vegetables mixed with walnuts, herbs and aromatic spices. Made using spinach, beetroot or other seasonal vegetables, these colourful appetisers are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Cheese lovers are equally spoiled. Sulguni, Georgia’s famous semi-soft cheese, appears in countless dishes, offering a mild, slightly salty flavour that pairs beautifully with breads, salads and baked dishes. Its versatility explains why it has become one of the country’s culinary icons.

No Georgian table feels complete without a generous assortment of salads. Rather than elaborate compositions, they focus on exceptional produce like ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, fragrant basil, fresh parsley, walnuts and simple dressings that allow every ingredient to shine. Their freshness provides the perfect balance alongside richer baked dishes.

The country’s love affair with sweets is equally impressive. One cannot leave Georgia without encountering churchkhela, the colourful candle-shaped confection hanging outside bakeries and market stalls. Often described as Georgia’s answer to an energy bar, walnuts or hazelnuts are threaded onto strings before being repeatedly dipped into thickened grape juice and left to dry. We also had a class to learn how to make this and it was pretty easy. The result is naturally sweet, satisfyingly chewy and surprisingly addictive.

Many cafés also serve delicate honey cakes layered with cream, rich walnut pastries and flaky sweet pastries filled with fruit preserves or creamy cheeses. We trued this on our last night after dinner and it was perfect to share with friends.

One of the pleasures of travelling through Georgia is discovering regional ingredients, family recipes and seasonal produce  and some familiar dishes vary from one town to the next, encouraging visitors to taste widely and remain curious.

My final evening at the wonderful Georgia House brought everything together. Accompanied by live traditional music, dinner unfolded slowly, with one beautifully prepared dish following another in an atmosphere filled with laughter, conversation and unmistakable Georgian warmth. It was the perfect reminder that here, food is never simply nourishment. It is culture, celebration and hospitality woven together around a shared table.

For More Information on Travelling in Georgia Visit – https://georgia.travel