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

Rediscovering the Soul of Georgia

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Shereen Shabnam

Returning to Georgia is a little like meeting an old friend. The familiar warmth is still there, but every conversation reveals something new. On my first visit, the dramatic journey to Kazbegi, with its soaring mountain landscapes and the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church framed by snow-capped peaks, left an unforgettable impression. This time, however, I deliberately stepped beyond the country’s best-known highlights to discover new regions, hidden experiences and a slower, more authentic side of one of the Caucasus’ most captivating destinations.  

There is something wonderfully effortless about travelling through Georgia. Distances are manageable, the scenery changes dramatically within a few hours, and every stop introduces another chapter in the country’s rich history.

My journey began in Tbilisi, a city I never tire of returning to. Even after previous visits, the Georgian capital always feels fresh. The old town, with its colourful timber balconies, cobbled streets and eclectic architecture, blends centuries of history with an unmistakably youthful energy. Every corner seems to reveal another hidden courtyard, artisan gallery or café filled with locals lingering over coffee.

Dinner on my arrival at Oilibuli Restaurant was the perfect start to Georgian hospitality. Like every meal throughout the journey, it reinforced why Georgian cuisine deserves far more global recognition. From traditional family recipes to contemporary interpretations, every meal became an experience rather than simply another stop on the itinerary.

Leaving Tbilisi behind, we headed east into Kakheti, Georgia’s celebrated wine region. Rolling vineyards stretched towards the Caucasus Mountains while sleepy villages appeared almost untouched by time. Our destination was Sighnaghi, affectionately known as the City of Love.

Small enough to explore on foot, Sighnaghi possesses a romantic charm that few European towns can rival. Its beautifully restored pastel houses, ancient defensive walls and sweeping valley views make it easy to understand why visitors linger here far longer than planned. Walking along the old fortifications, I found myself pausing repeatedly to absorb the endless landscape unfolding below.

Nearby, the remarkable Kvareli tunnel offered one of the most unusual grape curation experiences I have encountered. Originally constructed as a military tunnel during the Soviet era, it has since been transformed into an immense underground drinks cellar where thousands of bottles mature naturally beneath the earth.

The evening concluded at Lopota Lake Resort & Spa, nestled in the peaceful Lopota Valley. Surrounded by vineyards, forests and mountain ridges, the expansive resort feels less like a hotel and more like its own destination. As daylight faded across the lake, it became one of those rare places where silence itself becomes part of the luxury.

The following morning, curiosity led us to the Caucasus’ first outlet village for retail therapy before another afternoon immersed in Georgian hospitality followed by one of the journey’s greatest surprises, Dashbashi Canyon. While Georgia’s mountain scenery often dominates travel brochures, this spectacular volcanic gorge offers an entirely different perspective on the country’s natural diversity. Lush greenery cascades down dramatic cliffs towards waterfalls hidden below, while the now-famous glass sky bridge provides an unforgettable viewpoint suspended high above the canyon floor.

After a night in Tblisi, our adventure then shifted west towards Kutaisi, one of Georgia’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Along the way, Prometheus Cave revealed a hidden underground world sculpted over millions of years. Towering stalactites, shimmering stalagmites and softly illuminated chambers create an almost surreal landscape that feels closer to fantasy than geology. Walking through the vast caverns is a reminder that some of nature’s greatest masterpieces remain hidden beneath our feet.  

Kutaisi itself quickly became one of my favourite discoveries. We experienced Gemo Fest, the Georgian National Tourism Administration’s travelling gastronomic festival celebrating regional food traditions and local producers. Although I will save the country’s remarkable cuisine for another story, the festival offered a fascinating glimpse into how proudly Georgians preserve their culinary heritage.  

Our boutique hotel, immediately charmed me with its intimate atmosphere, but it was an unexpected resident parked outside that truly caught my attention in form of a beautifully preserved powder-blue 1963 Volga. As someone who has spent decades writing about automobiles, stumbling across this elegant piece of Soviet motoring history was a delightful surprise. It felt entirely at home against Kutaisi’s timeless backdrop.

Returning to Tbilisi, I embraced one of the city’s oldest traditions at Gulo’s Thermal Spa in the historic Abanotubani district. Georgia’s famous sulfur baths have welcomed travellers for centuries, and soaking in the naturally heated mineral waters provided the perfect opportunity to slow down after several days of exploring. The experience felt authentic, restorative and deeply connected to the city’s identity.  

The same day we had lunch at Kneina, a beautifully restored traditional Georgian home where lunch is prepared by an inspiring mother-and-son team. Rather than simply serving guests, they welcome visitors into their family story.

My final full day was spent wandering through the underground market, a treasure trove of antiques, vintage cameras, memorabilia, artwork and handcrafted souvenirs. Every stall seemed to tell another story about Georgia’s complex past, and browsing became an unexpected history lesson as much as a shopping experience.

Later, I wandered once again through Old Tbilisi, where ancient churches stand comfortably alongside synagogues, mosques and colourful wooden balconies overlooking winding streets. It remains one of Europe’s most visually distinctive historic quarters, constantly inviting visitors to slow down and simply observe everyday life unfolding around them.  

My final evening ended at the wonderful Georgia House, where traditional music filled the dining room long into the night. Surrounded by locals and visitors alike, the live performances captured something difficult to describe but impossible to forget. It was the perfect farewell to a country where hospitality simply comes naturally and I hope to return for a road trip experience next, hopefully in a vintage car to add to the experience.

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

Collina Luxury Relais

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Where Alpine Serenity Meets Contemporary Italian Design

Shereen Shabnam

Set within the breathtaking landscape of Clusone in the high valley of Bergamo, Collina Luxury Relais is a striking example of how contemporary hospitality design can coexist harmoniously with nature, heritage, and sustainability. Conceived as a refined five-star retreat, the property blends architectural elegance, understated luxury, and immersive wellness experiences within an environment shaped by the textures and tones of the surrounding alpine landscape.

Originally a villa with a nightclub and outdoor swimming pool, the site has been completely reimagined through a low-impact redevelopment project led by architect Silverio Pezzoli of TecnoArreda Interior Design, with Concreta overseeing the execution of the interiors and common spaces. The result is not merely a hotel, but a carefully orchestrated sensory experience where materials, light, and craftsmanship work together to create a sense of calm sophistication.

The property takes its name from the hillside on which it sits, surrounded by generous green spaces that immediately establish a connection to nature. Guests arriving at the entrance are greeted by an almost seven-metre olive tree, an architectural gesture that introduces the project’s balance between grandeur and organic serenity.

The relais comprises six suites, five independent chalets, and an expansive penthouse featuring a private spa, panoramic terrace, direct lift access, and complete privacy. The chalets, crafted entirely from wood with corrugated aluminium roofs, mirror the earthy tones of the alpine environment while maintaining a contemporary architectural language.

What defines the interiors most profoundly is the material palette. Throughout the property, Concreta has created a dialogue between natural textures and precision craftsmanship. Locally sourced Gré stone from the Lake Iseo region appears extensively across the project, particularly within the spectacular 300-square-metre pool area where resin finishes create a fluid, reflective water effect. The seamless connection between indoor and outdoor pools reinforces the relationship between architecture and landscape, while Swedish fir wood treated in evaporated mocha tones introduces warmth and tactile richness across terraces, pergolas, and chalet exteriors.

Inside, the atmosphere shifts toward refined contemporary elegance. The Beides Restaurant forms the social heart of the property, where grey-stained timber, metal, and glass intersect in a dramatic yet restrained composition. Large glazed surfaces flood the interiors with natural light, while Canaletto walnut, moka-stained fir, aged oak flooring, and Fenix finishes introduce depth and softness to the space. The continuity between interior and exterior materials is particularly striking, with gré cobblestone surfaces extending the visual narrative throughout the property.

The private lounge, featuring a Canaletto walnut floor and visible wine cellar, reflects the project’s broader philosophy of understated exclusivity. Rather than relying on decorative excess, the design focuses on proportion, atmosphere, and the emotional quality of materials.

The wellness component of the property further elevates its luxury positioning. Located in the basement level, the Collina MyPurity SPA has been designed as a sanctuary inspired by the surrounding mountains. A relaxation lounge overlooking the valley creates an immediate sense of stillness, while saunas crafted from Swiss stone pine wood introduce both natural fragrance and wellness benefits associated with reducing heart rate and stress levels. Elsewhere, cave-inspired stone Turkish baths, sensory showers, Scottish showers, and treatment cabins create a multisensory spa journey rooted in elemental design.

Even the fitness centre embraces the property’s immersive approach to wellbeing, offering panoramic views of the iconic Clusone bell tower while integrating state-of-the-art equipment within a visually calming environment.

Sustainability remains central to the identity of Collina Luxury Relais. Beyond aesthetics, the property integrates eco-conscious infrastructure through photovoltaic systems, geothermal probes, and energy-efficient technologies that support both the building’s operational needs and heated wellness facilities year-round. The project demonstrates how luxury hospitality can evolve responsibly without compromising comfort, beauty, or technological sophistication.

For Concreta, whose expertise spans over three decades in bespoke hospitality interiors, the project represents a seamless fusion of craftsmanship, engineering, and contemporary Italian design culture. Together with architect Silverio Pezzoli, the collaboration has produced a destination that feels deeply connected to its environment while delivering the privacy, technology, and refinement expected from a modern luxury retreat.

The Rise of the Solo Journey

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Why personalised itineraries and independent travel are redefining modern exploration

Shereen Shabnam

As a travel and lifestyle journalist, I have come to realise that some of the most memorable journeys rarely happen according to plan. My work often takes me across continents, from reviewing luxury hotels and test driving performance cars across challenging terrains to discovering hidden culinary gems between business meetings. Yet it is often the moments in between the schedules, launches, and itineraries that leave the strongest impression.

A recommendation from a local restaurateur in Malaysia can lead to an unforgettable street food experience in Penang, while a spontaneous detour through the winding coastal roads of Spain can transform a simple road trip into something cinematic. In Switzerland, driving through alpine passes and remote mountain villages offers a rare connection to nature and adventure, while the serenity of the Maldives provides the perfect counterbalance, a place where wellness, stillness, and reflection become part of the journey itself.

Then there is Paris, a city that remains timeless not because of its landmarks alone, but because of its atmosphere, café culture, effortless elegance, and the simple joy of wandering without purpose. Increasingly, these experiences are shaping the rise of personalised and solo travel, where the freedom to move independently allows travellers to connect more deeply with destinations, cultures, and ultimately themselves.

There was a time when solo travel was often viewed as an unconventional choice, reserved for gap-year students, or those simply unable to find company for a trip. Today, it has evolved into one of the most significant shifts in modern tourism. Across luxury travel, wellness escapes, and even corporate journeys, personalised itineraries and independent exploration are becoming deeply desirable experiences for travellers seeking something more meaningful than traditional sightseeing.

What is driving this movement is not isolation, but freedom. Travellers increasingly want the ability to shape journeys around their own interests, pace, and emotional needs rather than compromise within a group dynamic. The modern traveller is no longer simply chasing destinations; they are pursuing experiences that feel personal, immersive, and transformative.

Business travel, interestingly, has become one of the strongest catalysts for this change. Corporate trips today often extend beyond conference rooms and hotel lobbies. Spending time with local clients, colleagues, and industry professionals introduces travellers to a more authentic side of a destination. A recommendation from a local often becomes more memorable than anything in a guidebook. These interactions create a richer cultural connection and encourage travellers to explore independently during downtime, transforming work trips into deeply personal experiences.

Solo leisure travel carries a different, yet equally powerful appeal. Travelling alone cultivates confidence in ways few experiences can. Navigating unfamiliar cities, embarking on long scenic drives, and making spontaneous decisions encourage self-reliance and adaptability. Many travellers describe returning from solo journeys feeling more capable, focused, and emotionally recharged. In a world increasingly dominated by digital noise and rigid schedules, solo travel offers something increasingly rare: uninterrupted personal space.

The travel industry has recognised this shift. Luxury operators, boutique agencies, and wellness brands are now curating highly personalised solo itineraries that combine independence with comfort and security, that includes gastronomy, wellness, adventure, art, sustainability, or culture.

My favourite road trip was in Spain, particularly great for driving enthusiasts who view driving as part of the experience. From the dramatic mountain routes of Andalusia to the coastal highways stretching along the Mediterranean, Spain offers the perfect balance of scenery, culture, and spontaneity. Malaysia continues to attract independent travellers for its extraordinary culinary diversity and accessibility. I lived there for 9 years and love the refined dining in Kuala Lumpur to hawker stalls in Penang.

For those seeking tranquility and restoration, Maldives has evolved far beyond the traditional honeymoon narrative. Many luxury resorts now cater to independent wellness travellers with private villas, spa immersions, meditation programmes, marine experiences, and personalised wellbeing journeys designed around mindfulness. Adventure seekers continue to gravitate toward Switzerland, where nature and precision coexist effortlessly. Scenic rail journeys, alpine hikes, mountain drives, and pristine lakes create a sense of calm while still satisfying the desire for exploration.

Meanwhile, Paris remains one of the world’s most rewarding cities to experience alone. Its beauty lies not only in its iconic landmarks, but in its rhythm, mornings spent at quiet cafés, afternoons wandering galleries, evenings discovering intimate bistros hidden within historic streets. It is a city that invites travellers to slow down and simply absorb its atmosphere. Then there is Singapore, as one of the safest and most seamless gateways into solo travel. Efficient transport, exceptional hospitality, world-class dining, and a cosmopolitan energy allow travellers to move confidently while still experiencing cultural depth and diversity.

Ultimately, the rise of personalised solo travel reflects a broader evolution in how people define luxury and fulfilment. Modern travellers are placing greater value on authenticity, emotional wellbeing, flexibility, and meaningful experiences over rigid itineraries or crowded group tours and solo travel has become a powerful expression of curiosity and confidence.

Piaget Cocktail: Couture Creativity and Joyful Highlife

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Natasha Dury

For decades, Piaget has embodied a glamorous world where high jewellery, artistic freedom, and celebration exist in perfect harmony. Drawing inspiration from the legendary spirit of the Piaget Society, an era defined by elegance, creativity, and jet-set sophistication, the Maison’s latest Piaget Cocktail collection captures that same sense of joyful extravagance in a contemporary and highly wearable form.

The new collection introduces nine vibrant rings and two ear cuffs that blend colourful gemstones with sculptural design and playful sophistication. Designed as an ode to celebration, the pieces channel the energy of cocktail culture through daring colour combinations, fluid lines, and precious stones arranged like luminous compositions of flavour and light.

Piaget’s connection to glamour dates back to the 1970s and 1980s, when Yves Piaget gathered artists, icons, and cultural figures from around the world into what became known as the Piaget Society.

From Capri and Saint-Tropez to Palm Beach and Monaco, the Maison became synonymous with a lifestyle built around creativity, elegance, and fearless self-expression. Legendary names including Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Andy Warhol, Ursula Andress, and Roger Moore were all part of this vibrant universe.

That festive spirit continues within the Piaget Cocktail collection, originally introduced in 2010 and now reimagined with fresh energy and contemporary flair. Bright tourmalines, aquamarines, citrines, emeralds, amethysts, turquoise, and diamonds are paired in unexpected combinations that evoke the colours and freshness of exotic cocktails. Lemon-yellow sapphires, mint-green tourmalines, icy purple amethysts, and soft pink quartz create compositions that feel playful yet unmistakably luxurious.

The rings are sculpted with fluid curves inspired by the shape of a cocktail straw, while carefully cut stones introduce texture, movement, and lightness. Some pieces feature delicate figurative details, including sculpted leaves and crystal-like accents that echo ice cubes shimmering inside a glass.

Despite their bold colour palette, the designs remain refined and versatile. The pieces can be worn individually for understated elegance or layered together to create a more expressive statement. The result is jewellery that feels modern, spirited, and deeply connected to Piaget’s heritage of creativity and craftsmanship.

With Piaget Cocktail, the Maison once again transforms high jewellery into an experience, vibrant, celebratory, and full of personality. It is a collection that perfectly captures the Riviera-inspired glamour, artistic freedom, and joyful sophistication that continue to define the world of Piaget.

Big, Bold and Built for Everywhere

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2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71

Shereen Shabnam

Some SUVs are designed for school runs, while others are designed to make every journey feel like an expedition. The 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 belongs firmly in the latter category. Massive in presence yet surprisingly refined behind the wheel, the latest Tahoe continues Chevrolet’s formula of blending full-size American muscle with modern technology and genuine off-road capability. Driving the Tahoe Z71 around Dubai immediately reminds you why large SUVs still command such loyalty in the region. From Sheikh Zayed Road to rougher desert-edge terrain outside the city, the Tahoe feels completely at home. It is commanding without feeling cumbersome, luxurious without losing its rugged edge, and powerful in a way that only a naturally aspirated V8 can deliver. The Z71 trim adds an extra layer of adventure-focused character to the Tahoe, giving it a tougher visual identity and enhanced off-road credentials.

Exterior

The Tahoe Z71 looks every bit the full-size American SUV. Its sheer scale alone gives it presence, but Chevrolet has added enough rugged detailing to ensure the Z71 stands apart from more urban-focused variants. The high-approach-angle front fascia, black tubular assist steps, red recovery hooks, and aluminium skid plate immediately signal its off-road intentions. Combined with the dark exterior detailing and large 20-inch machined wheels with technical grey accents, the Tahoe Z71 carries a muscular and purposeful stance that feels perfectly suited to the Middle East. The panoramic power sunroof adds a welcome sense of openness, as does the elevated driving position and extensive camera systems.

Interior

Inside, the Tahoe Z71 balances rugged practicality with genuine comfort remarkably well. The cabin feels spacious in every direction, with three rows capable of comfortably accommodating adults without compromise. The Gideon and Dark Atmosphere leather interior trim gives the cabin a premium feel, while heated front and second-row seats, tri-zone climate control, and extensive power seat adjustments make long-distance journeys effortlessly comfortable. We love that there are storage spaces everywhere and the large centre console with freezer mode feels especially useful in the UAE climate. The power-folding third-row seats also make cargo flexibility far easier when switching between passengers and luggage. Rear passengers are especially well catered for with the available Rear Seat Entertainment System, turning family road trips into genuinely relaxing experiences.

Technology

Chevrolet has significantly modernised the Tahoe’s technology experience, and the Z71 benefits from a comprehensive suite of connectivity and driver assistance systems. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly, while 5G connectivity capability keeps the Tahoe feeling constantly connected. The premium branded surround audio system delivers impressive sound quality, particularly when paired with the quiet cruising refinement of the SUV. The HD Surround Vision camera system is arguably essential, dramatically improving confidence while parking and manoeuvring in tighter spaces. Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Braking, and Side Obstacle Detection all operate discreetly in the background to make daily driving feel less demanding.

Performance

The Tahoe Z71 is powered as standard by a 5.3-litre V8 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, but the available 6.2-litre EcoTec3 V8 transforms the experience entirely. It delivers effortless power with the kind of smooth, naturally aspirated response that has become increasingly rare in today’s turbocharged world. The dual exhaust system adds a subtle but satisfying V8 soundtrack without becoming overwhelming. What impresses most, however, is how the Air Ride Adaptive Suspension and Magnetic Ride Control dramatically improve ride comfort and body control. This allows it to glide over rough surfaces while still remaining stable at higher speeds. Off-road capability is equally strong. The two-speed Autotrac transfer case, electronic limited-slip differential, hill descent control, and off-road capability package give the Z71 genuine confidence away from paved roads.

Our Verdict

The 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 remains one of the most complete full-size SUVs on the market. It delivers exactly what buyers in this segment want: commanding presence, immense practicality, genuine V8 performance, serious off-road capability, and the ability to carry an entire family in complete comfort. The Z71 trim adds just the right amount of adventure-focused attitude to the formula. It looks tougher, feels more capable, and still manages to deliver the comfort expected from a premium family vehicle.

When Museums Become Bridges That Connect Cultures

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International Museum Day Sparks Dialogue at Ajman University and Explores the Power of Cultural Connection

UAE-based immersive exhibition pioneers, MTE Studios brought global cultural dialogue into focus during a thought-provoking International Museum Day 2026 session at Ajman University, where founder Ludo Verheyen explored the timely theme of “Museums Uniting a Divided World.” Known internationally for creating large-scale educational and cultural experiences, MTE Studios continues to position the UAE as an emerging hub for globally relevant storytelling, immersive learning and cross-cultural engagement.

Through compelling global examples including the African Museum in Tervuren, the Apartheid Museum in South Africa, and MTE Studios’ own globally recognised Sultans of Science travelling exhibition, Ludo highlighted how museums are evolving beyond spaces that simply display objects. Instead, they are becoming places of dialogue, reflection, understanding and human connection.

One of the strongest messages from the session was how exhibitions can create bridges between cultures in ways politics often cannot. Drawing from the international success of Sultans of Science, Ludo spoke about reclaiming shared intellectual ancestry, challenging historical silence, and using storytelling to inspire curiosity instead of division.

Hosted in collaboration with ICOM UAE, the event brought together students, creatives and cultural thinkers for meaningful conversations around the role museums play in shaping empathy, preserving memory and building a more connected future.

With offices in Dubai and Cape Town, MTE Studios has delivered landmark projects across multiple continents. Its notable portfolio includes the award-winning Science Museum at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, Ajman Fort Museum, Masfoot Museum, Dubai Transport Museum and helped revitalize the Al-Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, preserving its cultural heritage while integrating modern elements. among other acclaimed cultural and educational experiences.

Beyond the Bowl

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How Maki & Ramen Brought Soulful Japanese Dining to Dubai

Natasha Dury

There are restaurants that open with fanfare, and then there are brands that arrive with genuine soul. Maki & Ramen belongs firmly to the latter. When the celebrated UK-born Japanese dining concept opened its doors in Dubai, it immediately stood apart not because it tried too hard to impress, but because it understood something many modern restaurants forget: great food is ultimately about connection, comfort, and authenticity.

From the very first visit, there was an energy about the space that felt refreshingly unpretentious. Tucked within the Mövenpick Hotel in Jumeirah Village Triangle, the restaurant blends contemporary Japanese aesthetics with a warmth that feels welcoming rather than theatrical. Oak wood textures, soft lighting, and an understated design language create an atmosphere that invites diners to settle in rather than simply pass through.  

For me, it is the food that leaves the lasting impression and it is not only because my collegaues have crowned me the Ramen Queen of Dubai and I am biased towards this genre of food. I genuinely loved the food and also enjoyed the bowls that came ready to heat and eat at home after visiting the restaurant.

The ramen arrives rich, layered, and deeply comforting, carrying the kind of slow-cooked intensity that reveals itself spoonful after spoonful. The sushi feels vibrant and fresh without unnecessary complication, while dishes such as the Tan Tan Men and Salmon Teriyaki Roll showcase the balance between authenticity and broad appeal that has become central to the brand’s success.   The curry ramen, in particular, has become something of a signature, delivering bold flavour with remarkable depth.

What makes Maki & Ramen especially compelling is that its growth story never feels manufactured. Founded in Edinburgh as a modest 30-seat ramen bar, the brand has expanded into an 18-location restaurant group across the UK, with further growth already underway.   Yet despite its scale, the philosophy behind it remains rooted in accessibility and sincerity. The mission has always been clear: to make high-quality Japanese food approachable without compromising integrity.  

That philosophy becomes even more meaningful after meeting the man behind it in Dubai. Chef Teddy Lee is not simply a restaurateur chasing expansion. He is someone who built his understanding of hospitality from the ground up, beginning in his family’s Chinese restaurant before immersing himself in the discipline and precision of Japanese ramen culture.   His journey eventually took him to Tokyo, where he trained under Japanese masters and refined the craft that would later shape Maki & Ramen’s identity.  

What makes Teddy particularly inspiring is not only his work ethic, though stories of fourteen-hour days and relentless refinement speak volumes, but the clarity of his vision. He speaks about Japanese cuisine with reverence, yet without exclusivity. His belief that authentic food should never feel gatekept or intimidating resonates strongly in today’s dining landscape.  Meeting him in Dubai made it easy to understand why the brand has cultivated such loyalty.

Dubai’s dining scene is hardly short of spectacle, yet Maki & Ramen succeeds by focusing on something more enduring. It delivers flavour with honesty, hospitality with heart, and a dining experience that feels personal in an increasingly performative restaurant landscape. And sometimes, that is exactly what makes a restaurant unforgettable.

Azimut’s New Grande 30M Brings Italian Superyacht Elegance to Asian Waters

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Natasha Dury

There are yachts designed to impress at first glance, and then there are yachts designed to completely redefine life at sea. The new Azimut Grande 30M belongs firmly to the latter category. Making its Asian debut in Hong Kong, the flagship model arrives not simply as another addition to the superyacht landscape, but as a statement of how contemporary luxury yachting is evolving toward more fluid, social and experience-driven living.

The Grande 30M has established itself as one of the most architecturally ambitious yachts in its segment. Designed externally by Alberto Mancini with interiors by acclaimed Italian studio m2atelier, the yacht balances sculptural Italian styling with a deeply lifestyle-oriented approach to onboard living.

What distinguishes the Grande 30M most is the way it reimagines space. Central to the design is the innovative “All-Day” upper deck, a fully walkaround social environment anchored by a panoramic lounge enclosed by floor-to-ceiling windows that open on three sides. The result is an atmosphere that feels less confined than traditional yacht layouts and more akin to a luxury waterfront residence floating at sea.

Designed with multi-generational living and entertaining in mind, the layout allows guests to move effortlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces while maintaining moments of privacy and intimacy. Whether hosting extended family gatherings, sunset dining or quiet retreats during long coastal journeys, the Grande 30M adapts fluidly to different rhythms of onboard life without ever sacrificing openness or connection to the sea.

Equally transformative is the yacht’s extraordinary Deck2Deck™ Terrace at the stern. By elevating the transom structure, Azimut has created a remarkable 25-square-metre overwater terrace that seamlessly extends the cockpit into the surrounding horizon. The architectural effect is dramatic yet elegant, blurring the boundary between yacht and ocean while creating one of the most immersive alfresco spaces currently available in this category.

Beyond aesthetics, the Grande 30M also reflects Azimut’s broader philosophy of merging technological innovation with refined Italian craftsmanship. Every detail feels considered, from the natural flow of circulation onboard to the careful interplay of materials, textures and light throughout the interiors.

The Hong Kong showcase also highlighted the wider strength of the Azimut range, with models including the Fly 78, Fly 62 and Magellano 60 reinforcing the brand’s ability to cater to vastly different owner lifestyles. Yet it was the Grande 30M that unquestionably commanded attention, particularly as the world’s first delivered unit officially arrived in Asia.

As luxury yachting increasingly shifts toward immersive lifestyle experiences rather than pure status symbolism, the Grande 30M feels perfectly aligned with the new generation of owners seeking design sophistication, versatility and emotional connection to the sea. More than simply a superyacht, it represents a floating expression of contemporary Italian living which is elegant, social and unapologetically experiential.