Madame Butterfly at Westin Mina Seyahi

Natasha Dury

On returning to Dubai, my first big outing involved experiencing an entertaining and multisensory dining experience complete with a series of contemporary cabaret performances at Papillon, Westin Mina Seyahi.

Papillon proved to be a restaurant with a difference, as the exhilarating Madame Butterfly dinner show returned for its second season with brand-new creative performances brought to life by the vision of local talent Layla Kardan and her creative team.

The cast were vibrant, dynamic and brought electric energy to the stage that is not often seen in Dubai. Every Wednesday, diners can enjoy the Madame Butterfly experience with a dinner package starting from an incredible AED 395 per person.

The cabaret performances in between meal courses allow guests to immerse themselves into an entertainment mode as professional dancers, contortionists and vibrant dancers rock the stage at Papillon. The music is just right for each skit that is performed.

The lush Madame Butterfly menu is created and overseen by Chef Vinod Mani with a mix of sharing and a la carte courses from 8pm to 11pm with unlimited drinks. We shared the starters of burrata and cherry tomato salad done to perfection and crispy calamari dish.

There is a choice of four main courses that suits different diets and as we were five on the table, we were able to try all the dishes and each one was a delight to taste and savour. The dishes same with sides on the table to share. The desserts were equally perfect and will please those who love chocolates and sorbets.

Papillon is an intimate venue that seats 80 guests and transforms the room into a perfect venue for date nights, girls’ nights out, boys get together outings and it is suitable for special celebrations and occasions.

The Madame Butterfly dinner and show takes place from 8pm to 11pm every Wednesday. It is a perfect venue for both date nights and to enjoy as a group with friends.

#MadamButterfly #Papillon #Restaurant #Entertainment #mydubai #GlobaTrendMonitor #GTM #magazine #Lifestyle

Over-packers and novice travellers are being offered tips on how to pack perfectly for their summer holiday.

The holiday car rental experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have rounded up their top tips for those looking to save space and ensure they pack all of the essentials. 

Among the top hacks are packing necklaces in straws to avoid them becoming tangled and placing dirty shoes in a shower cap.

Overpackers should aim to wear some of their more bulky items, like boots or jackets, on the plane to relieve the stress of fitting everything in your suitcase. 

A spokesperson from StressFreeCarRental.com said: “Packing the perfect amount of items to fit in your suitcase before a holiday is a real art. Often, holiday-makers over pack and chuck in a number of outfits for each day, just in case they are in need of extra items – only to bring the majority home unworn and full of creases.

Putting your necklace inside a straw can prevent entanglement

“To avoid this, travellers should plan ahead and make a list of the items they need. Easy tips for saving space include only taking the essential toiletries and decanting items like shampoo, conditioner and shower gel into small travel bottles.”

Here are StressFreeCarRental.com ’s top packing hacks:

Heavy items

Place any heavier or bulkier items by the wheels of your case so when it is stood, the heavy items will be at the bottom. 

Dryer sheets

Travellers preparing for long-haul flights or for those who don’t like to unpack when they get to their destination should place dryer sheets in their luggage. This will keep everything smelling fresh. 

Prevent spillages

To avoid any liquids spilling all over your case, unscrew the lid of your bottles and place a small piece of cling film over the opening and screw the lid back on. Alternatively, pack all liquids in a plastic bag. 

Packing chargers

Avoid wires getting tangled amongst your belongings by wrapping up all chargers and electricals and packing them together in a small bag or packing cube.

Outfit packing

Before packing, arrange your items of clothing into outfits rather than individual items. This will encourage you to think more strategically about the clothes you need and will help to stop temptations for overpacking.

Jewellery

Getting on holiday to find all of your necklaces have tangled in your bag is frustrating. To prevent this, pop your necklaces into reusable straws.

Roll up

Rather than folding all of your clothes, try rolling them up to take up less space and avoid lots of creases. 

Bulky clothes

Wear heavy clothes and shoes at the airport rather than stuffing them into your case. Layer up with jumpers and jackets and wear your heaviest shoes. 

Wrap up shoes

Cotton bags are great for holding shoes inside a suitcase as they can be washed as soon as you’re home. Alternatively, shower caps are great for holding muddy or dirty shoes and means you can keep them away from your clean clothes. 

Fragile items

Avoid breakages of glass perfume and aftershave bottles by putting them inside your packed shoes or in a sock for extra padding.

Hats

Those heading off on sunny holidays and planning on packing hats should stuff them with smaller items like socks and underwear. This will save space and help your hats keep their shape. 

https://www.stressfreecarrental.com/

Shereen Shabnam

After a few days exploring new parts of Switzerland, I took a two-day respite at the iconic Dolder Grand.  With spectacular views of the alps and Lake Zurich, the Dolder Grand, renowned as Zurich’s most prestigious address since 1899, is a city resort atop a hill with close proximity to beautiful nature and wilderness areas as well as downtown locations for shopping, art, and entertainment.

Built-in the 19th century in Swiss style, Dolder Grand was designed to be a place for relaxation and escape, with past guests that include historical figures such as Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, the Shah of Iran as well as luminaries and celebrities of modern times such as Leonardo DiCaprio and the legendary director David Fincher who have sought out this haven of calm.

The nature at Dolder Grand is breath-taking and draws a picture of perfection with an aura of serenity, especially for GCC families who relish the good weather of Switzerland. With an ever-increasing number of travellers from this region, the property has evolved to cater directly to this market.

Guests enjoy a peaceful experience with stunning views during meals that offer a gastronomical experience and exquisite cuisine with a difference. At the Saltz restaurant, guests can enjoy authentic Arabic flavours, thanks to the talents of Oriental Chef de Cuisine, Firas El-Borji. Chef’s. His creations can also be enjoyed in the privacy of guest rooms or at the Lobby & Bar.

As a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and Swiss Deluxe Hotels, the 5-star-deluxe property carries the signature of architects Norman Foster as well as Sylvia Sepielli and is one of Zurich’s most famous landmarks.

The hotel has 175 luxurious rooms and suites, a sperate ladies ‘and gentlemen spa, generous banqueting and seminar facilities and a remarkable art collection. The premium suites extend over hundreds of square metres and some feature steam showers, whirlpools, and spacious terraces with sweeping views.

Each suite has been inspired by a specific “patron”, such as the Maestro Suite, named after conductor Herbert von Karajan and abounding in musical cues, including a grand piano and lyre as decoration. The rocking Suite 100, inspired by the Rolling Stones and the infamous 100 Club in London, is dominated by dark colours such as black and deep purple or the Masina Suite, named after the Italian actress Giulietta Masina, celebrates the glamour of fifties designs.

The Terrazza and Carezza Suites are designed with specific patterns and colours, predominantly gold, stone and wood, to suit the tastes and preferences of Arab guests. Covering 2,300 sq ft, the Carezza’s vaulted ceilings and cutting-edge design provides plenty of space for guests to come together either in the luxurious interior, or on the terrace that surrounds the entire suite, providing unique views of Zurich.

The Terrazza spreads out over 3,900 sq ft, covering two floors, and offering up to four bedrooms, including an exquisite master suite. Its modern interior takes on classic lines, while floor-to-ceiling windows provide plenty of natural light and stunning views of the city.

With a private entrance, the Terrazza is particularly suited to long-stay guests, while the hotel’s butler team provide specific one-on-one service to guests. With additional inter-connecting rooms, the capacity for the suites extends further, perfect for larger families or groups that want the connectivity yet the privacy of a hotel room.

The Dolder Grand Spa philosophy for well-being is based on four main principles: relaxation, beauty, vitality, and detoxification with an extensive menu of treatments. With a separate ladies and gentlemen spa comprises 20 treatment rooms, two private spa suites, a wellness centre, and an aqua zone, designed for guests to relax and unwind.

On arrival at The Dolder Grand, I indulged in an art tour as the hotel is home to more than 100 pieces of art, which are on display provided by the owner’s private collection and includes pieces by Salvador Dali and Takashi Murakami. The grounds are studded with sculptures everywhere and the three-piece reclining figure of Henry Moore outside one of the new wings stands out.

The exceptional concierge service is one of its kind in Zurich, offering e-bikes, complimentary guest cars or shuttle buses, as well as childcare services; The concierge team always knows what’s going on around Zurich and share tips and recommendations for excursions and activities. On top of that, the kid’s room is open on weekends for children aged three to 12 and filled with supervised activities to keep the little ones busy and active.

The award winning Dolder Grand is the perfect base to enjoy Zurich and its plethora of museums, picturesque renaissance, and medieval buildings amidst beautiful natural surroundings. My wonderful time at the hotel will always be treasured.

#DolderGrand #Switzerland #Hotel #Vacation #Holiday #Zurich #Nature #Art #Destination #Swiss #Travel

· Partnership cemented at an awareness campaign with key stakeholders at the Al Zohra Mangrove area

Amadeus is partnering with ATS Travel, an award-winning travel management company in the Middle East, to launch its sustainable drive under the brand ‘ATS Go Green’ in collaboration with Olive Gaea, a Dubai-based start-up providing Net Zero solutions across the MENATI region.

Amadeus is committed to working towards environmental sustainability, encouraging industry-wide progress to help achieve its net zero targets and securing long-term growth and prosperity for the travel industry. The company has set a target of zero emissions by 2050, with the ambition to achieve this by 2030.

The ‘ATS Go Green’ initiative reiterates the commitment by all parties to reach their environmental sustainability goals and be the front runners in the travel industry providing tailor-made reports on Co2 emissions for corporates.

Saleem Sharif, Deputy Managing Director at ATS Travel said, “The partnership will allow Amadeus, ATS Travel and Olive Gaea to work closely together and offer clients offsetting opportunities and inspire sustainable living. The collaboration saw all parties pledging to develop a more sustainable future with participants planting mangroves at the local Al Zohra mangrove ecosystem.  Participants were briefed on the sustainability project and taken on a Kayak tour to the mangrove plantation area with reusable water bottles and eco-friendly utilities. We invited our corporate clients and UAE National airlines representatives to join the event and support the cause.”

“The increase of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere today is a growing concern within the travel and tourism sector. We aim to be the front runners in the travel sector providing custom carbon footprint reports for Air, Land, and hotels to our travel corporates. Our collaboration will enable us to go beyond just greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reports in the future, and provide cost effective offsetting options,” added Saleem.

Ernesto Sanchez Beaumont, Managing Director, Amadeus Gulf said, “This partnership supports our approach to transforming business operations, helping customers and driving the industry toward a more sustainable future. Enabling our customers to engage in green initiatives, such as this one from ATS Travel and Olive Gaea, and working with the global travel community on sustainability reflects our commitment to being at the forefront of change.”

“The UAE Government has given a lot of emphasis to sustainability, Go Green drives and eco-tourism. It is hence critical to understand the direct impact of travel choices on carbon footprint,” added Ernesto.

Vivek Tripathi, Founder and CEO of Olive Gaea said, “We are delighted to partner with ATS Travel’s sustainability initiative “ATS GO GREEN” supported by Amadeus. With local and global organizations racing against time to address climate change and reach Net Zero Carbon targets, we are pleased to play our part and help them take climate action.  Not only will they minimize their environmental impact and support new plantation activities, they will also empower their clients with innovative and sound sustainability tools. 

“Change starts with awareness; that’s why we trust our reporting and carbon offsetting initiatives will go a long way in fostering a greener travel industry in the UAE. The initiative will help both corporate and individual travellers assess their environmental impact and take positive climate action amid rising concerns over global warming,” added Vivek.

New hospitality management company aims to offer enhanced portfolio of services to hotel properties in the UAE

Abu Dhabi based hospitality Management Company, Executive Suites Hotels and Resorts, founded in March 2022 successfully launched at the Arabian Travel Market 2022 introducing its core hospitality product and service offering.

The company is currently managing the Executive Suites hotel, centrally located in Al Nahyan Camp area, Abu Dhabi near top tier corporate entities and government entities and major malls. Based only ten minutes away by car from Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), Executive Suites is a perfect location for local residents and visitors coming to the UAE for business and pleasure.

Mahmoud Tharwat, Hotel Manager of Executive Suites Abu Dhabi said, “We are excited to use ATM as a platform to introduce our hospitality management offering and show the USP’s of our main hotel in Abu Dhabi.”

“Whether you are working, relocating or traveling with your family, our elegantly decorated 120 studios and apartments offer a host of amenities like LCD Televisions, cable/ Satellite TV, in Room Safe and coffee and tea making facilities,” he added.

The hotel offers free High-Speed wireless internet, Business Center services, same day laundry and dry-cleaning services, travel and tours reservations, multilingual Team, shoeshine Service, 24 Hours concierge services and a massage center for tired travellers. For leisure and recreation, facilities include a roof-top pool, sauna and a fully equipped gym.

For added convenience, the hotel has within the property the L’Auberge Palace Restaurant & Cafe serving traditional Lebanese cuisine. It serves international dishes, snacks and a selection of teas and coffees. At Rooftop Café, patrons can enjoy an assortment of the best shisha flavors.

The in-room amenities that adds convenience to long term stay guests includes, fully equipped kitchenette, washing machine, writing Desk, IDD Telephone Facility, choice of smoking and non-smoking rooms and accessible rooms for people of determination.

Executive Suites is ideally located in the hub of Abu Dhabi and meets the needs of local residents and travellers from abroad. The management services of the hotel will be done by the parent company, Executive Suites Hotels and Resorts.

The Langham, London

Shereen Shabnam

London is always a good idea for a holiday and selecting the right hotel depending on what you want to do in the city. On my top three favourites for hotels in London is The Langham. Creating exceptional guest experiences since it opened as Europe’s first grand hotel in 1865, The Langham, London continues to enhance its offerings more than 150 years later.

My favourite activity at the hotel is try an afternoon tea while people watching as it is indeed a hotel that gives you the best of history, luxury and a regal vibe that leaves one with a sense of gratification.

The exquisitely appointed guest rooms and suites are classically styled and evokes a warm residential feel with renowned service that bears the hallmarks of the hotel’s rich heritage that spans three centuries.

The rooms at The Langham are exquisite. The Terrace Suite vaunts imposing views of bustling Regent Street and beyond with its extensive balcony perched on the hotel’s fifth floor. This unforgettable suite, with separate lounge and bedroom, is ideal for longer stays. The airy space fits up to three guests between the bedroom’s king bed and living room, and additional beds are available upon request.

Brimming with comforts for the discerning traveller, the suite includes a full-size work desk, the Langham Blissful Bed, marble bathroom with separate shower and bath, and a bottle of chilled bubbles upon arrival.

Guests in the room will want for nothing thanks to butler service to assist with personal requests such as unpacking suitcases, colour-coding your wardrobe, or organising bespoke itineraries and 24-hour full-service in-room dining.

Bathed in a refined colour palette of regal jewel tones and soft neutrals, summer’s light pours through the terrace’s glass doors into the suite’s living area, creating one of the best destinations for a getaway for families or special occasions.

Palm Court is famed as the birthplace of the afternoon tea tradition, an indulgent ritual that continues today. Artesian is a glamorous bar designed by the acclaimed late David Collins and is a social hub for chic Londoners conjuring up classic and innovative cocktails.

The Landau restaurant offers classically constructed dishes using the finest seasonal ingredients with a contemporary style of presentation. Chuan Spa is a pampering haven and is London’s first luxury hotel spa to incorporate the ancient principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine into its signature treatments and ambience.

The Langham, London was opened in 1865 by HRH The Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII), as Europe’s first “Grand Hotel”.  From the outset it boasted an unrivalled location at the top of Regent Street and this is still true today with an enviable address in the heart of the West End. And with incredible city views, the plush atmosphere of a grand hotel and Langham’s impeccable hospitality, guests can expect an unforgettable experience.

#GlobalTrendMonitor #GTM #Langham #Hotel #London #Travel #Destination #Hospitality #magazineUAE #magazine #mediaUAE #UAEbusiness #myDubai 

AnadoluJet, the brand of Turkish Airlines, is starting Sharjah – Istanbul flights. For the launch, the flag carrier brand will set the prices of tickets starting at 755 AED for round trips from Sharjah.

Starting on 15 December 2021, AnadoluJet will operate reciprocal flights four days (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday) a week between Sharjah and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen. Flights will depart from Sharjah International Airport, flights will depart at 01:20, from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport at 20:15 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Sundays and at 20:20 on Tuesdays in local time.

AnadoluJet guests will have the option of making changes to their tickets until (including) 31 May 2022 if purchased before (including) 31 March 2022. For more information, you can visit http://www.anadolujet.com website and learn about the details of your options on cancellation, refunds and changes on the “Flexible Ticket Rights” page.

AnadoluJet ensures that all hygiene precautions are always taken at the highest standards in order to provide a healthy and safe travel experience for its passengers and flight crew. For detailed information, you can visit our website at www.anadolujet.com/en/corporate/news-and-annoucements/guidelines-for-safe-travel.