Author: Business & Lifestyle Publishing

A snapshot of all things lifestyle by Island girls Shereen Shabnam and Natasha Dury.

Sumo Sushi & Bento Presents the Highly-Anticipated Annual Poke Festival – Poke Paina

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Enjoy the Flavors of Freshness and Creativity from September 1st to October 19th

Dubai, UAE: – Sumo Sushi & Bento, a leading name in the world of Japanese cuisine is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Poke Festival – Poke Paina, a celebration of exquisite flavors and culinary artistry from September 1st to October 19th, inviting food enthusiasts to indulge in a diverse array of delectable poke bowls that capture the essence of fresh ingredients with innovative combinations.

As part of the Poke Festival, Sumo Sushi & Bento is set to introduce two new mouthwatering creations that are sure to delight the senses. Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing journey with the Fresh Catch Poke. This exquisite dish features generous cuts of seared Tuna and succulent salmon, elegantly adorned with creamy avocado, invigorating seaweed salad, crunchy radish, earthy beetroot, and crowned with the signature Sumo Poke sauce.

The dish is elevated with a garnish of Sakura greens mix, adding a touch of elegance to an already exquisite masterpiece. The Fresh Catch Poke is priced at AED 65, allowing patrons to experience a harmonious blend of textures and flavors in every delectable bite.

Guests can also dive into the sumptuousness of the Atsui Bowl, a symphony of flavors that brings together Sumo’s all-time favourites. Revel in the combination of rock n’ roll shrimp, crispy fried salmon fillet, and delectable Crabstick salad.

The dish is taken to new heights with the addition of Sumo’s signature sauce and a tantalizing drizzle of Spicy Mayo. The avocado, seaweed salad, and green tobiko create a delightful contrast of colors and textures, making the Atsui Bowl not only a culinary masterpiece but a feast for the eyes as well. Indulge in this culinary masterpiece for AED 62 and experience the art of fusion cuisine at its finest.

In harmony with the festivities, Sumo Sushi & Bento is also proud to celebrate “International Poke Bowl Day” on September 28th, 2023. The restaurant will be offering special promotions and surprises to mark this occasion, inviting patrons to join in the worldwide celebration of this beloved dish.

“We are thrilled to bring back the Poke Festival – Poke Paina, where we celebrate the art of crafting exquisite poke bowls that reflect our dedication to freshness and creativity. The addition of the Fresh Catch Poke and Atsui Bowl to our menu underscores our commitment to delivering unforgettable culinary experiences to our valued patrons,” Ms. Julianne Holt-Kailihiwa, CEO, Sumo International Inc. LLC.

For regular patrons,Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO)

Travel International chooses Amadeus to upgrade its customer service offering and online presence in the UAE

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Integral to the new agreement is the deployment of the latest Amadeus e-commerce solutions and robotic applications

Amadeus, a company dedicated to making the experience of travel better for everyone, has signed a wide-ranging, agreement with Travel International – Terminals Group, based in Abu Dhabi.

Travel International is a leading travel specialist that was founded more than 20 years ago and has established itself as a company that is focused on connecting travelers with exclusive experiences, immersing them in local cultures, and offering unforgettable journeys.

The strategic collaboration between Amadeus and Travel International – Terminals Group is designed to enhance customer service and bolster the company’s online presence, as well as creating efficiencies behind the scenes.

A cornerstone of this collaboration is the adoption of Amadeus Online Suite, an innovative omni-channel e-commerce solution that will expand Travel International’s online presence and deliver a wealth of high-quality tailored content to its customers.

The new partnership includes the deployment of automation tools such as Amadeus Robotics solutions Auto-Ticketing and Quality Control which automate the ticket issuance activities and streamline PNR quality processes essentially freeing up agents’ time from manual tasks while improving the overall business efficiency.

Additionally, Amadeus All Fares with NDC-sourced content will empower Travel International’s agents to find the best airfare deals for customers by comparing multiple content sources. The wide-ranging agreement also includes Amadeus B2B Wallet, a cutting-edge payment solution that ensures secure, seamless transactions.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Amadeus,” said Ali Bin Jarais, CEO of Travel International – Terminals Group. “This partnership will allow us to leverage state-of-the-art solutions that enhance our customer service and streamline our operations. We are confident that the Amadeus technology we have selected will provide numerous efficiency gains and enable our team to elevate the overall travel experience for our customers.”

“We are excited to collaborate with Travel International – Terminals Group and support their ambitious vision for the future,” commented Ernesto Sanchez Beaumont, Managing Director of Amadeus Gulf. “Our award-winning technology will empower this well-respected travel company to deliver best-in-class customer service, reduce costs and inefficiencies through optimized operations, and facilitate business growth. We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership.”

This partnership between Travel International – Terminals Group and Amadeus will provide travelers with unparalleled experiences. By adopting Amadeus’s advanced solutions, Travel International is poised to achieve substantial growth and solidify its position as a leader in the travel industry.

Sumo Sushi & Bento Celebrates August with Irresistible Offers and Culinary Delights

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Sumo Sushi & Bento, a pioneer of family-friendly sushi dining in the UAE, is excited to kick off the month of August with an array of special offers that promise to delight taste buds and create lasting memories. Renowned for its delectable Japanese cuisine and inviting ambience, Sumo Sushi & Bento aims to elevate the dining experience for its esteemed patrons.

In celebration of 23 years of culinary excellence, Sumo Sushi & Bento presents the Sumo Anniversary Box, A Sushi Paradise in One Box. It is an enticing compilation of the restaurant’s Best Classic selections. This culinary masterpiece pays homage to Sumo’s legacy and features the Emperor’s New Roll (Blue Roll), Gozen Samurai (Red Roll), Prawn Paradise (Orange Roll), and Umai Roll (Green Roll).

With each bite, diners are transported to a “Sushi Paradise in one box,” relishing the harmonious blend of flavors meticulously crafted by Sumo’s culinary artisans. Priced at AED 239, the anniversary box is valid for take away, delivery, and dine-in.

Diners can also unlock the vibrant flavors of Japan with Sumo Sushi & Bento’s exclusive “Buy One Get One at 50% OFF” promotion on selected items while savoring unbeatable savings on a delectable array of dishes, including Yakisoba, Sumo Fried Rice, Japanese Curry Katsu, Rock’n’roll shrimp, Chicken Karai, Dynamite Roll, Sweet Potato Crunch, Classic Bento, Assorted Tempura, Classic Bento,Teriyaki Chicken, Shinobi, and Twister.

Check out Weekly Specials on the Sumo Sushi & Bento Website throughout August. Whether you’re seeking a taste of Japan’s rich heritage or a delightful journey through creative sushi creations, Sumo Sushi & Bento promises to deliver an unforgettable dining adventure.

The offers are valid from August 1st to August 31st. Each offer is limited to one per transaction/person and cannot be combined with any other promotions.

Offer is available for dine-in delivery and pickup, one offer per transaction/per person and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Loyalty Offers

Sumo Mobile App is the most simple and convenient way to earn your loyalty points. You can collect the Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

Sumo Sushi & Bento Celebrates 23 Years of Excellence, Innovation, and Culinary Delights

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Brand launched the Sumo Anniversary Box “Sushi Paradise in one Box” which is inspired by Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Core values and brings together the best selections of sushi in one box

Sumo Sushi & Bento, a trailblazing name in the world of Japanese cuisine, proudly announces the celebration of its 23rd year in business. Since its inception, Sumo Sushi & Bento has remained committed to delivering an unforgettable dining experience, and this milestone marks another year of culinary excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Over the past 23 years, Sumo Sushi & Bento has become synonymous with delectable sushi creations, authentic bento boxes, and a menu that caters to the diverse palates of its valued customers. The restaurant’s unwavering dedication to quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and warm hospitality has won the hearts of countless patrons, making it a beloved culinary destination for patrons in UAE.

Reflecting on the remarkable journey of the past 23 years, Ms. Julianne Holt-Kailihiwa, CEO, Sumo International Inc. LLC expressed her gratitude to the customers, staff, and partners who have contributed to the success of Sumo Sushi & Bento. She stated, “We are humbled and honored to celebrate our 23rd anniversary. This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our patrons, the dedication of our talented team, and the trust of our partners. We remain committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences and further elevating the art of Japanese cuisine.”

To celebrate this special occasion, throughout the month of August, customers can enjoy the Sumo Anniversary box at AED 239.00 with four types of best selected sushi rolls reflecting the company’s core values of integrity, quality, simplicity, and creativity. It is a representation of beautifully selected roll caters “Sushi Paradise in one Box”.

As part of its commitment to making a positive impact beyond the dining table, the brand hopes to continue engaging with different stakeholders through events and CSR activities as they have done for 23 years as this anniversary celebration marks not only a reflection of Sumo Sushi & Bento’s illustrious past but also a promise of an even brighter future.

For regular patrons,Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO)

Zak Zorro reveals a new Groovy and Catchy Music Track titled ‘HAANJI’

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Versatile singer, Zakeer Hussain, popularly known as Zak Zorro hails from Dubai and is back once again with an amazing and groovy track.  Zak Zorro who is always known for songs like Teri Yaad Mey, Rebel, Dhinchak, Mere Siva Kaun Bey, Jeeta Raha, and Ye Faasla from Album Baby Dil Dena is back in the spotlight with the sensational and groovy song that is sure to captivate the hearts of his fans and music enthusiasts worldwide.

“HAANJI,” is a peppy song that embraces the joyous essence of life and cherishes every happy moment. With its unique blend of mesmerizing vocals, melody, hook step for dance, and trendy beats HAANJI is all set to be the biggest anthem song of the year. The beauty of the song is that it will definitely make the listeners groove their head and tap their feet and make them reconnect with the golden moments of life and give it a chance to revive them. The song was officially released on 25th July on the official YouTube handle of Zak Zorro. The teaser of the song is already  being appreciated by the audience.

Zak Zorro in his new single HAANJI says, “The song is very close to my heart and I am always fond of creating such music that makes the audience connect to their inner soul and Haanji is one such song that has peppy beats, tune and lyrics and will be on everyone’s mind. I am overwhelmed with the response that is coming my way from my audience.”

He further adds, “The song’s catchy chorus is designed to make you want to sing along and dance to the infectious rhythm, making it a perfect addition to any party playlist or mood-lifting music collection. The song urges listeners to appreciate life’s blessings and share the joy with those around them, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness through music.”

Check out the song now on:

The talented medley of sorts has been pulled off by the one and only, Zak Zorro and Icon Art Production. The entire song is being shot in Dubai. In the musical video, various dancers across the country are seen grooving on Haanji along with Zak, which shows the unity and love he believes in.

From humble beginnings to international fame, Zak has continuously pushed the boundaries of creativity and talent. As the track Haanji continues to garner widespread acclaim, there’s no doubt that Zak Zorro’s music will continue to touch hearts and spread joy wherever it reaches. So, turn up the volume, groove to the beat, and let the magic of “HAANJI” immerse you in the sheer bliss of life’s most joyful moments.

Sumo Sushi & Bento Presents this Week’s Special: Slammin Salmon

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Sumo Sushi & Bento, renowned for its delectable Japanese cuisine, is thrilled to announce its latest weekly special: Slammin Salmon. This extraordinary dish is one of the most sought-after items, meticulously crafted to satisfy even the most discerning sushi enthusiasts.

The Slammin Salmon roll features a delightful combination of flavors and textures, and comes with a delectable blend of fresh salmon, creamy avocado, and succulent crabstick, all elegantly nestled within a brown rice sushi roll. It’s an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

For a limited time, enjoy the Slammin Salmon at Sumo Sushi & Bento for an unbeatable price of only 60 AED. Whether you choose to dine in, opt for take away, or indulge in the convenience of delivery.

For regular patrons,Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO)

Sumo Sushi & Bento Listings July 2023

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Sumo Sushi & Bento, the originator of family-friendly sushi dining in the UAE and throughout the region, is thrilled to announce a series of special offers for the month of July. With a delectable selection of Japanese cuisine and exciting activities, Sumo Sushi & Bento aims to provide an unforgettable dining experience for its valued customers.

Sumo Epic Meals

Experience the ultimate culinary delight with our Sumo Epic Meals. For just 70 AED, you can choose any two items from our extensive menu, including classic Bentos like Teriyaki chicken, assorted tempura, garlic prawn, and BBQ Beef, along with a range of sushi rolls, such as crunchy California, spicy tuna, and sweet potato crunch roll. Vegetarian options are also available. This offer is exclusively available for delivery through our mobile app.

Triple Treat Offer

For a complete dining experience, don’t miss our Triple Treat offer. Priced at just 99 AED, this incredible value includes a selection of sushi rolls, such as California, crunchy California, crispy cream, crunchy philly, sweet potato, spicy tuna and spicy salmon, along with classic Bento options like assorted tempura, chicken katsu, garlic prawn and teriyaki chicken. To complement your meal, choose from our refreshing drink selection, including Ginger Cooler, Iced Tea Lemon, and Sumo-jito. The Triple Treat offer is available for dine-in and pickup through our mobile app. This offer is not available at Mirdiff Hills and DSO branches.

The offers are valid from July 1st to July 31st. Each offer is limited to one per transaction/person and cannot be combined with any other promotions.

Offer is available for dine-in delivery and pickup, one offer per transaction/per person and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Loyalty Offers

Sumo Mobile App is the most simple and convenient way to earn your loyalty points. You can collect the Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

For Booking: Visit https://sumosushibento.com or call 800-7866(SUMO)

Exploring the Best of Bologna

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Shereen Shabnam

During a recent visit to Emilia-Romagna, we found some extra time in Bologna, a captivating city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and gastronomy and it brought back many memories of both recent and past visits to this vibrant part of Italy.

Bologna offers travelers a captivating mix of architectural marvels, vibrant markets, and mouthwatering culinary delights. We take you on a journey through what we feel are the best places to visit in Bologna.

Piazza Maggiore

Start your exploration of Bologna at Piazza Maggiore, the city’s main square and a bustling hub of activity. Admire the magnificent Basilica di San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, and marvel at the intricate architecture of the Palazzo dei Banchi and Palazzo d’Accursio. The square is also home to the iconic Fountain of Neptune, a symbol of Bologna’s artistic and cultural heritage.

The Towers of Bologna

Embark on a journey to the sky by climbing the Asinelli Tower, the tallest of Bologna’s iconic leaning towers. Enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape and surrounding hills, and learn about the intriguing history behind these medieval structures. For those seeking a less crowded experience, the Garisenda Tower offers an equally enchanting ascent.

Basilica di San Domenico

Step inside the Basilica di San Domenico and immerse yourself in a world of religious devotion and artistic grandeur. Admire the stunning works of art, including the tomb of Saint Dominic, adorned with masterful sculptures and precious marble. The peaceful ambiance of this sacred site offers a serene respite from the bustling city streets.

Archiginnasio of Bologna

Experience the rich academic heritage of Bologna at the Archiginnasio, once home to the prestigious university. Marvel at the intricately decorated anatomical theater and the historic library, filled with ancient manuscripts and scholarly treasures. This magnificent building is a testament to Bologna’s intellectual prowess throughout the centuries.

Mercato di Mezzo

No visit to Bologna is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Head to the Mercato di Mezzo, a vibrant food market filled with stalls offering fresh produce, regional delicacies, and traditional dishes. Sample local favorites like tortellini, mortadella, and tagliatelle al ragù, accompanied by a glass of local wine. Let your taste buds embark on a gastronomic journey through the flavors of Bologna.

Santo Stefano Basilica

Escape the bustling streets and find tranquility at the Santo Stefano Basilica, a complex of seven interlinked churches. Wander through the peaceful cloisters, admire the ancient architecture, and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this hidden gem. The courtyards and hidden corners offer a serene retreat for contemplation and relaxation.

Bologna’s rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience. From the grandeur of Piazza Maggiore to the flavors of Mercato di Mezzo and the serenity of Santo Stefano Basilica, this enchanting city offers a wealth of treasures to explore.

Immerse yourself in the charm of Bologna, and let its architectural wonders, cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine leave an indelible mark on your travel memories. We flew to Bologna with Turkish Airlines via Istanbul which allowed us to have a stopover holiday as well with seamless connections and ideal travel times.

Layal Boulos to RepresentLebanon with Pride in Miss Europe Continental

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Talented in all aspects of her life and career, Layal Boulos announces her participation in the esteemed International Miss Europe Continental pageant set to take place in Italy this coming November by representing her ancestral homeland, Lebanon. The pageant will be broadcasted live on TV worldwide.

In the glamorous world of international pageantry, Layal Boulos shines as a beacon of strength and resilience. Born in the United States, she is half-American, half-Lebanese. A beauty with brains, her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, led her to teach kids with learning disabilities which also enhanced her interpersonal skills.

Layal is currently the executive assistant of the Bahamas Ambassador to the state of Qatar and UAE and speaks English, French and Arabic. She is also a freelance model when she is able to fit that in her schedule. Layal’s deep connection to Lebanon and her unwavering spirit make her the perfect ambassador for a nation that has triumphed over adversity time and time again.

According to Layal, Lebanon has a vibrant way of life and her passion for her heritage is deeply rooted in the generosity and love of the Lebanese people, as well as their rich culinary traditions, hospitality and natural beauty. She recognizes the strength of the Lebanese people, who have time and again risen from the ashes of adversity.

“Inspired by the resilience and unwavering spirit of Lebanon, I see myself as a symbol of hope and renewal, ready to showcase my country’s true potential to the world. Representing Lebanon in the Miss Europe Continental pageant gives me a platform to showcase the rich tapestry of my cultural heritage, foster a deeper understanding of our vibrant society, thus breaking stereotypes and promoting harmony,” said Layal.

“My journey in the pageant is not just about winning a crown; it is about amplifying the voice of Lebanon on an international stage. Through my participation, I hope to shed light on the immense potential of Lebanon and its people, encouraging global recognition and support for the nation’s ongoing recovery efforts. I want to inspire others by showing that like Lebanon, even in the face of adversity, dreams can be realized, and hope can prevail.”

With her participation, Layal aims to elevate the global perception of Lebanon, proving that from the ashes of war, a nation and its people can rise to new heights of triumph, just like a phoenix can rise from the ashes.

Sherwoods International Empowers Doctors for Financial Success at the Doctor’s Wealth Seminar 2023

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The Doctor’s Wealth Seminar 2023, an exclusive event by Sherwoods International dedicated to empowering doctors in the UAE to secure a strong financial future concluded successfully.

Held at the Grand Hyatt in Dubai, this seminar brought together industry experts who offered valuable insights on wealth management, retirement planning, and healthcare worker migration trends.

Doctors gathered at the Al Maasa Hall to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of wealth management. With interactive sessions and expert guidance from Sherwoods International, attendees discovered strategies to protect their wealth and knowledge needed to achieve their wealth and retirement goals, ultimately leading to financial freedom. The seminar proved to be an enlightening experience, empowering medical professionals to take control of their financial future.

Sherwoods International continues to be a trusted partner in forging financial success partnerships, catering to the specific needs of professionals across various industries. The Doctor’s Wealth Seminar 2023 served as another testament to their dedication to helping doctors build a strong financial foundation.