tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52507492516823332482024-03-14T07:13:45.736+01:00Hint of BeautifulA Hint of Beautiful a Day Keeps the Doctor AwayHOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.comBlogger1295125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-47164165369904586272016-03-05T13:41:00.003+01:002016-03-05T13:41:45.489+01:00I spy with my little eye... Mario Testino in Dubai.<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you have the slightest interest in fashion, you will be excited by this: Mario Testino is exhibiting for the first time in Dubai! D3 created a pop-up space for his large scale photos and he came to Dubai to present it to the press himself. What a privilege to hear him talk about his work!</div>
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He had an anecdote for each theme of the exhibition: how Madonna was tired after a morning of shooting but he had to insist because "sadly, I didn't have the right shot yet", how he brought a real bear to pose with Cara Delevingne, how photography is all about light: "you find light, you find what you're looking for", how he shot between 60 and 100 photos before he captured what he was looking for...<br />
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But he also opened up about himself: " I tend to pick the people I like to shoot, and then I perform for them. I'm a performer, I make jokes and tease them". He comes across as a serious business man, but he lights up when he talks about his work and the people he collaborates with. The passion is obvious, and you can tell he has fun working his magic: "I believe that photography should never show the effort that went into it, it should look effortless".<br />
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The exhibition "Heat" will be hosted by D3 until the 15th April and I cannot recommend it enough!</div>
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Hopefully we will see more of him in the near future since he is "discovering more and more about Dubai" and is finding it "fascinating".<br />
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HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-64827853388454764082016-02-23T12:45:00.000+01:002016-02-23T12:45:11.872+01:00I spy with my little eye... a reflection on mirrors and image.<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love when my coffee comes with a side of art! Lots of restaurants and cafes in Dubai work with artists or galleries to decorate their walls, and <a href="http://www.laserre.ae/">La Serre</a> is one of my favourite places in town, so I'm always happy to meet with their artists. These days, they have a collection of mirrors by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/karma.j.beirut.mirrors/">Karma Mirrors</a>, and I have a big crush on the plain copper and golden pieces. </div>
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But apart from the fact that they are pretty to look at, I thought bringing mirrors in Dubai as art was a very relevant choice, so well done to the management team at <a href="http://www.laserre.ae/">La Serre</a>! Dubai is a city where the obsession of looks goes beyond my parisian love for fashion and aesthetics. I admire this city, I love the diversity and opportunities, but I am sometimes overwhelmed by the energy, time, money and attention some people are willing to put into their image. I'm all for making efforts, being fit, healthy, using makeup and enhancing your best features, but I cannot deal with long-term technologically induced physical change. This is where I personally draw the line. I don't deal very well with hair or eyelashes extensions, fake nails, breasts, fillers, plastic surgery in general... Of course I understand that a complex can ruin your quality of life, and if you can correct it and make your life better, than of course you should go for it, and I'm not even going to get into reconstructive plastic surgery, these are completely justified. But there is a pretty clear line between one complex and changing the very nature of your DNA. I am not judging or pointing, I am just observing the fact that we forget how props and plastic surgery affect the mind as much as the body. It can make you feel better, it can help you reinvent yourself, it can also make your children wonder why they don't look like you. I think that working on the mind a little bit more could help deal with body issues, instead of doing it the other way around.</div>
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It is so easy to throw money at the problem... I would rather learn how to grow my hair and eyelashes naturally than get extensions that might ruin my actual hair. Cherry on the cake? It teaches you patience and forces you to understand how your body works. Same applies to breasts, lips, noses... There is always something to tweak, but I would rather learn to play it with clothes, fabrics, makeup, a bit of research and a lot of patience, rather than get into surgery or long term modification. I would hate for my children one day to look at me and fail to see the resemblance. I would like to feel confident when it comes to teaching them to love themselves just the way they are, and I do believe in teaching through example. I get worried when a 20-something young woman in Dubai vlogs her "first fillers"... I admire the ambition though, these are the first batch people, stay tuned for the next one!</div>
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That was a bit of a long post, but that's what <a href="https://www.facebook.com/karma.j.beirut.mirrors/">Karma Mirrors</a> inspired me, and after all, isn't it what art is supposed to do: start a conversation, open a subject and a reflection? Again, a big bravo to the <a href="http://www.laserre.ae/">La Serre</a> team for this selection, I think it is brilliant and very relevant for Dubai!</div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-47035227596605432622016-02-11T11:32:00.000+01:002016-02-11T12:31:26.147+01:00I spy with my little eye... Charicycles.<div style="text-align: justify;">
In a city where everything is new is shiny, it is so refreshing to find second-hand items so I couldn't help but fall in love with <a href="http://www.charicycles.com/">Charicycles</a>: they use old vintage bicycles to make new customised ones, and every time you buy an item, you contribute to funding bicycles for children in refugee camps. Zaina and Rania Kanaan are two Canadian-Palestinian entrepreneur sisters who moved to Dubai five years ago and created <a href="http://www.ananasa.com/">Ananasa</a>, an online marketplace for handmade items in the Middle East, but the creative duo didn't stop there: a couple of years ago when Zaina couldn't find a bicycle that would meet her expectations in terms of design and price, she decided to make one! After watching a couple of Youtube tutorials, the two sisters managed to assemble a bicycle using parts from other old bikes and repainting the frame. It got so much attention that their practical and philanthropist minds soon came up with an eco-friendly, sustainable, local, charitable, stylish concept that also promotes a healthy lifestyle (what's not to like?): <a href="http://www.charicycles.com/">Charicycles</a> was born!</div>
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Please meet Zaina, Rania, and their amazing bicycles!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWxQENIL2pc85a1fppcQ0_ED8A6Z9Uu08bi27cA54rHIIcOzbqi87t3kcAHqQOOACWAG0eIvQhFtHqKWUUTCLlGCk4BnRF4HW8llDRqQJpx1DSEfEAByJrgZUuy5xxUpcmYCkBZFZ-2nDH/s1600/image2+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWxQENIL2pc85a1fppcQ0_ED8A6Z9Uu08bi27cA54rHIIcOzbqi87t3kcAHqQOOACWAG0eIvQhFtHqKWUUTCLlGCk4BnRF4HW8llDRqQJpx1DSEfEAByJrgZUuy5xxUpcmYCkBZFZ-2nDH/s1600/image2+%25284%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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HOB: If you could live in a painting, which one would it be?</div>
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Zaina: "I'd skip the painting and choose Figueres, just because the whole town embodies Salvatore Dali's paintings, his life and his love. It's a surreal place to get lost in, it's a tangent and a never-ending story."</div>
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Rania: "The Persistence of Memory, from Salvatore Dali."</div>
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HOB: If you could live in a different era, which one would you pick and why?</div>
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Zaina: "I'd probably go for the Victorian era, there were so many true romantics practising hopeful love in luscious gardens surrounded by butterflies, wearing stunning dresses."</div>
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Rania: "I am too young to have made this decision :)"</div>
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HOB: What piece of clothing reminds you of your mother/father?</div>
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Zaina: "For my mother: a mustard coloured sweater with illustrations of Middle Eastern olive trees and gardens, her way of keeping us aware of our roots since a young age. I carry it in every closet I've had over 20 years now. For my father: Italian linen shirts, my dad is our Casanova, he knows it, we know it!"</div>
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Rania: "Although not a piece of clothing, my mom always has lipstick on rain or shine :) and my father is obsessed with nice Italian leather shoes."</div>
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HOB: What scent takes you right back to you childhood?</div>
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Zaina: "Lavender and jasmin combined. We had so many of those trees around and it was always the most accurate signal of the arrival of spring."</div>
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Rania: "Nabulsi soap, it reminds me of my Teta's room."</div>
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HOB: When do you feel on holiday?</div>
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Zaina: "When I travel to volunteer. I usually like to go on holiday to grow spiritually, the more relevant experiences the more I grow and learn. I find volunteering especially with children gives a strong sense of freedom and the power to allow me to live in my childhood, purely and innocently."</div>
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Rania: "Most days :)"</div>
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HOB: What designer would you take on a camel ride?</div>
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Zaina: "I'd take the designer of a little cafe in Siem Reap, Cambodia called <a href="http://www.sistersreycafe.com/#sistersrey">Sister Srey Cafe</a>. The design and energy of that place is unforgettable, it speaks to me in so many ways and it's one of the few places I never feel restless at. I'd think the designer of that cafe would have interesting ideologies and superb energy on a camel ride."</div>
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Rania: "Baron Karl von Drais."</div>
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HOB: Your favourite recipe to make?</div>
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Zaina: "Orange-cranberry eggless cookies. I'm allergic to many food ingredients, so baked treats are out of the question most of the time, except those cookies which I both love to do on a cosy day and love to eat."</div>
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Rania: "I am not frequently in the kitchen, but every year, once a year, I cook a Turkey and enjoy it very much."</div>
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HOB: Best piece of advice you were ever given?</div>
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Zaina: "Never take no for an answer. It made me question life and get much more from it. If we settle for a "no", the road ends. I'm all for stretching the road and peeking beyond the horizon because life should be an adventure."</div>
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Rania: "Always send the elevator back down."</div>
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HOB: What book changed your life?</div>
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Zaina: "The Prophet by Khalil Gibran, I read it when I was really young and every time I pick it up I relate to it differently. And the Forty Rules of Love by Elif Sakaf."</div>
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Rania: "The Prophet by Khalil Gibran."</div>
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HOB: The movie you've watched 30 times but you might watch again tonight?</div>
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Zaina: "Mrs Doubtfire."<br />
Rania: "Aladdin."</div>
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HOB: Your theww favourite spots in Dubai?<br />
Zaina: "Bastakiyah, a quiet beach I get to on my bicycle, and my room."</div>
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Rania: "The rooftop of my parents house, anywhere on the beach, and Bastakiyah."<br />
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For more information, check their website: <a href="http://www.charicycles.com/">www.charicycles.com</a> </div>
<br />HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-25197977362270766622016-01-28T12:19:00.000+01:002016-01-30T17:06:05.031+01:00I spy with my little eye... a little lingerie inspiration.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Whether you are single or in a couple, celebrating Valentines or not, doing it for yourself or for someone else, lingerie is always a good idea! I am not one for big gestures and demonstrating love once a year, I like little daily attentions. My father buys flowers for my mother every week... My brother in law surprises my sister by flying back home in the middle of a business trip... I like the idea of sprinkling a little bit of attention and kindness everyday, so i don't see why I should settle for once a year (yes I have been spoiled). </div>
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So whether you are doing it for someone else or for yourself: take care of yourself. Each one of us has her own way of doing it: fitness, reading, cooking healthy, travelling, fashion, parenting etc... Lingerie is one of my guilty pleasures, how very French of me! This year I'm feeling cosy, so I am into nude tones. I loved this Powder Pink Miss Coquette <a href="https://www.passionata.com/">Passionata</a> ensemble; it reminded me of chilly mornings in Montmartre (yes that's Montmatre on this drawing, I used to live in the area in Paris so my father gave me this painting as a memory) when all you want is a warm latte and a friend to skype with. I would like to tell you that I used to curl up under a big blanket, with a tea and read a book back in Paris, looking glamourous but that would be a lie: I would curl up under a big blanket, with a latte (I like my caffeine,) and would skype for hours, because I am a chatty woman with friends and family all around the world.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFFV7hH4hGVX1ULRC6oScClc-FRW_vmWGYlugWGxBly1z9Zyb7JhEWzVrOeer3D1zs3zXsrsUB_Y9HVAtOp-JZa1Fwk-6NBSwaH5EYppurtfx6Lg4A3VbpMOICKYbN6abUMpjigvNOwdq/s1600/image1+copy+3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFFV7hH4hGVX1ULRC6oScClc-FRW_vmWGYlugWGxBly1z9Zyb7JhEWzVrOeer3D1zs3zXsrsUB_Y9HVAtOp-JZa1Fwk-6NBSwaH5EYppurtfx6Lg4A3VbpMOICKYbN6abUMpjigvNOwdq/s1600/image1+copy+3.PNG" /></a></div>
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An other piece that caught my eye is this Blossom bra from <a href="https://www.passionata.com/">Passionata</a>. How cute is this plumetis? It looks very virginal and reminded me of Fitzgerald naive character Daisy from The Great Gatsby: decadent, naive, pretty, effervescent. I love how much a simple piece of white lace can actually say so much about you or at least your mood.</div>
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Last but not least is this Satine <a href="http://www.chantelle.com/shop-online/">Chantelle</a> ensemble: who said nudes were boring? I am not huge on animal print, but when it's done in such an elegant and discrete way, I can see myself rocking it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeNMC_q8HSaBXRXMWWXGMicDKfECusx6hyZKdCRC25MPp0tImTh1g7-Vmf-mZGieAcLL4nJz1NClLGx6xKziJc6mjsvFg9P1dCb3JPOXGL5fl2csrAyLyOddZjDHgyeAlmzIoCctktJ4z8/s1600/image2+%25281%2529+copy.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeNMC_q8HSaBXRXMWWXGMicDKfECusx6hyZKdCRC25MPp0tImTh1g7-Vmf-mZGieAcLL4nJz1NClLGx6xKziJc6mjsvFg9P1dCb3JPOXGL5fl2csrAyLyOddZjDHgyeAlmzIoCctktJ4z8/s1600/image2+%25281%2529+copy.PNG" /></a></div>
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Now for the ladies in Dubai who want to surprise their special someone, there is one more thing I can recommend: a little Burlesque dance lesson with Kamilla at <a href="http://www.polefitdubai.com/">Pole Fit Dubai</a>. She will make you feel at ease and she will teach you a little ladylike yet cheeky routine, that will boost your self-confidence. Here is a little inspiration...</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hsso6fyvxcE?rel=0&controls=0" width="640"></iframe>HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-31148695995665405222016-01-19T09:35:00.000+01:002016-02-11T13:41:04.986+01:00I spy with my little eye... good resolutions<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am not one for good resolutions, I consider improvement a daily thing. I don't get dry January, and I do not intent to give up gluten, lactose, and sugar (you can have a look at my philosophy on diet <a href="http://www.hintofbeautiful.com/2014/01/i-spy-with-my-little-eye-french-women.html">here</a>). I respect people who live by the paleo diet, vegetarians, vegans, people who have to change their ways because of health issues, and I am always looking for new, healthier recipes, but I don't smoke, or binge, or eat fast food, so please, respect my right to caffeine and cheese. That being said (as you can see, I feel very strongly about this), there is always space for improvement, you just have to choose your battles, and being healthier is not just about diet and fitness. I tend to keep my goals simple and attainable: no I will not start yoga this year (turns out I am not very good at this whole breathing thing), but I will floss more often (true story, this is one of my 2016 resolutions). An other thing I have been working on for a while now, is actually trying to get into a healthier skin routine. I cannot say that I only use natural products yet, but little by little I am changing my ways.</div>
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This year I have decided to switch body and face lotion for virgin coconut oil. I actually started playing with it 6 months ago so I can tell you it works for me. Now this might not be a good fit for all skin types but I never had skin problems, apart from a couple of moles and freckles, I can't say that my skin is bugging me. What I like about coconut oil is that: </div>
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- it melts very quickly in my hands so it is easy to apply</div>
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- the skin absorbs it within 10min, so it is pretty quick</div>
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- it leaves the skin hydrated but not oily</div>
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- it is cheap</div>
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- no chemicals</div>
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- I can use it to hydrate my face, body, hair, but I can also use it as a makeup remover, yes I can!</div>
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I use it rather in the evening because in the morning, especially in Dubai, I need SPF.<br />
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New routine with only 3 healthy and cheap ingredients: virgin coconut oil, honey and sugar:<br />
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An other little trick that recently made it to my skin routine is lipscrubbing. Because I like lipstick and because the AC in Dubai dries the life out of your skin, let's be honest, I've had dried lips for as long as I remember. But scrubbing sometimes when you're in the shower (remember I don't like to get out of my way) takes 2 seconds and can actually make a difference. I found two good ways to do it: either use an old toothbrush and gently rub it on your lips, or mix a teaspoon of honey with a teaspoon of sugar, keep it in a little container next to your bathtub and just use it once a week, it can last for a month.</div>
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It's the little things that count and I'm a firm believer in constant improvement but one at the time.</div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-59430121403911437112016-01-12T09:46:00.002+01:002016-01-12T09:46:38.640+01:00I spy with my little eye... the Kings Cake.<div style="text-align: justify;">
The beginning of the year starts with Kings Cake in France: on the 6th of January, we usually celebrate the Epiphany with a "Galette des Rois". I have been in Dubai for 4 years now and I can't remember celebrating it ever, which is weird because Paul sells very nice Galettes, I just never got the occasion. So when my sister told me she made one in Beirut, I figured I should be able to manage too!</div>
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According to the tradition, there is a favour hidden in each Kings Cake, and the idea is that the person who finds it in his/her slice becomes king/queen. No special treatment here, but you get to choose your queen/king for the day (if only it was that easy in real life), and children usually love running around the house with a crown! Obviously the way you distribute the slices is strategic, so in order to avoid all cheating, you send the youngest of the crowd under the table, and he/she gets to decide which slice goes to whom. </div>
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The main reason why I had never made a Kings Cake before is the filling: "frangipane" is a sort of marzipan which always seemed difficult to make (hello lack of self confidence!). Turns out is a simple mix of butter, eggs, grounded almond, sugar and vanilla; you just can't get it wrong. So this is what it looks like, and for the record, there were no leftovers!</div>
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And so here is the recipe: you will need 2 puff pastries, 3 eggs, 60g of butter, 200g of grounded almond, 125g of sugar, a hint of vanilla, a tablespoon of cold water, and a favour (if you cannot find a typical Galette ceramic favour, just wrap an almond in foil paper, that will do the trick).</div>
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Start by preheating and setting your oven on 180 celsius degrees.</div>
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Spread some butter in your baking tin.</div>
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Then lay your first puff pastry in the tin, and prick it with fork, and set it aside.</div>
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Prepare your filling -"frangipane"- by simply mixing 2 eggs, the melted butter, the grounded almond, the sugar, and the vanilla.</div>
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Spread the "frangipane" on the puff pastry, starting from the centre, and leaving a 5cm empty strip all around so you can close the pie. Put the favour on the "frangipane" and lay the second puff pastry over the pastry. Use a fork to close the pie by squeezing the 2 pastries all around the tin.</div>
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Use a knife to design drawings on the top of the pie.</div>
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Mix the yolk of the last egg with a tablespoon of cold water, brush the mix generously over the pie.</div>
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Put in the oven for 45min.</div>
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Et voila!</div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-33547379312239706872016-01-07T10:25:00.000+01:002016-01-07T10:25:27.308+01:00I spy with my little eye... a talkative city and the New Year.<div style="text-align: justify;">
To begin with, let me start by saying that I am not one to cheer the New Year as if it was going to change the energies in my life and turn things around just like that. I don't think that a number can make it all better or worse, improvement is an everyday kind of work, and ups and downs are doomed to happen, whatever the year. But I will say that 2015 was an eventful year on every level, good and bad. After all, isn't that what you want from life: memories and stories to tell?</div>
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I got the chance to travel last year and the week I spent in Ethiopia in December was the perfect ending to 2015. Addis is a wonderful talkative city, asking questions and answering them as you can see:</div>
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"Where to go?" was asking St Mary at Entoto.<br />
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"Come and receive light, go forth and shine." answered Bole.</div>
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Now I am not a believer of any sort, I am plenty of things but holistic isn't one of them, I am way to rational for that, but I did appreciate this little wink from Africa. I thought it was a brilliant way to start a New Year and to keep up the good work.</div>
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Addis Ababa and I are sending you all good vibes!</div>
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HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-38168625819714551062015-11-23T13:40:00.002+01:002015-11-23T13:47:10.419+01:00I spy with my little eye... pretty damaged countries.<div style="text-align: justify;">
I don't want to get into politics or militancy, HOB is not the place for that, but last week's events were heavy, and I agree with my compatriots' reaction to terrors: insisting on keeping a normal lifestyle. No fear is one of the biggest mottos that have been heard and read in Paris, it applies to France but also to Lebanon that was bombed on the same week-end and didn't get half of the attention Paris did. Whether it's Paris, Beirut, Bamako, Syria... there is no rule when it comes to reasoning with irrationality. The only thing we, as civilians, can do, is keep moving forward as peacefully as possible and keep remembering how beautiful our countries and values are.</div>
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So this post is my little contribution: this is (surprisingly) not about Paris but about the underdog, about Lebanon, where Lil'sis got married two month ago, I hadn't shared these pictures yet, and I think it is time to remind ourselves of the pretty things.</div>
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She welcomed us in Beirut with fresh pistachios and rose.</div>
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The morning of the wedding I got her a little present.</div>
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After a quick stop a the Embassy and we headed to Jbeil for an amazingly sunny and chilled afternoon. Lil'sis and her husband had insisted on a beach day, and we are all grateful they stood their ground.</div>
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Probably the only moment my mother chilled during this whole week-end... </div>
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Lil'bro and cousin celebrate the happy bride.</div>
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And this is how why we keep swords around in Lebanon: to cut wedding cakes! What else?</div>
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HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-40736006295206023712015-10-09T17:27:00.002+02:002015-10-11T17:07:28.257+02:00I spy with my little eye... Pink October with Chantelle.<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am usually not one for email chains and for campaigns, but having lost young women on both sides of my family because of breast cancer, this cause has become very close to my heart. It is a difficult disease to prevent, so I encourage all the ladies out there to get checked and to pay attention to what is happening in their bras. Do it for you, and do it for your families.</div>
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Now I am not very skilled at tracking the changes in my body; if/when I notice something different, I usually just shrug my shoulders, and decide that it is nothing significant... until someone drags me to the doctor. But if you are a 30something woman who has a family history of breast cancer, you can't afford the luxury of acting like a child, got to find a way to be responsible. As unexpected as it may sound, on top of being a womanly pleasure, beautiful lingerie has become part of my strategy to keep an eye on my breasts.</div>
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And when it comes to lingerie, <a href="http://ae.chantelle.com/">Chantelle</a> is one my go-to brands. Here are my favourite pieces from the AW15 collection:</div>
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I love the soft pink colour and lace of the Idole set. Just a little bit of lace so get into Autumn slowly.</div>
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Black "plumetis" instantly put me in a Parisian mood: time for the androgynous look, a man white shirt, red lipstick, black pants and heels. Simple and efficient.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">And since I am in a Parisian mood, I picked an other classic: the white Superbe set. I paired with my red <a href="http://asia.christianlouboutin.com/hk_en/">Louboutins</a> and <a href="http://thelittleblackjacket.chanel.com/">The Little Black Jacket</a> Chanel exhibition book. Black and white with a touch of colour and Chanel, could it be any more Parisian?</span></div>
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HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-43599571244858765692015-07-19T14:47:00.003+02:002015-07-19T14:48:22.598+02:00I spy with my little eye... a turban, 1930's style.<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a long belated post... I met Alice from <a href="http://www.brothersandsisters.biz/">Brothers and Sisters</a> a couple of months ago, it's our common love for hats that brought us together. She is a little ray of sunshine and I instantly loved her style. The only thing is: as much as I like hats, I consider turbans a special breed. They are very common in the Middle East because they work well with the "modest fashion" movement (a very stylish alternative to the veil), but we don't wear them as easily in Europe.</div>
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When she showed me her collections, the first thing that came to my mind was the 30's, so it was an evidence that I should pair it with my grandmother's 1930's lace dress... I just needed to locate it in my suitcases! And thanks to this first long week-end of the year, I finally did!</div>
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As fun as it was to shoot these 2 items together, I still feel pretty shy about the turban. I think it comes naturally to the ladies in the region, when for me it is more of an effort: Ascia from <a href="http://www.hybridheadpiece.com/">The Hybrids</a> and Dee from <a href="http://streetstylesavvy.com/">Street Style Savyy</a> are 2 great examples. Give me a cloche or a bibi and I am instantly in my element, but a turban... I need to work at it, it's just out of my comfort zone (such profound reflexions, this post is the exact opposite to the last one, oh well, can't be serious all the time!).</div>
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Oh, and the black and white picture I am looking at on the above photo? My grandmother, the one who purchased and wore that sexy 1930's dress. Way to go Nina!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eZrUk2CTN_tNc9-DUzeNDTd5eeP7xFKsvSrMFTP4THd8mpyWKddfAyWseyjOUS0_Ve8gZOwShoABjgH6Hq5md-30TLIpE5oh_Jp3CjP7OnHFgsVWBOex3S-Ar2Abuowv4GsTe2Y3l8Gx/s1600/Turban1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eZrUk2CTN_tNc9-DUzeNDTd5eeP7xFKsvSrMFTP4THd8mpyWKddfAyWseyjOUS0_Ve8gZOwShoABjgH6Hq5md-30TLIpE5oh_Jp3CjP7OnHFgsVWBOex3S-Ar2Abuowv4GsTe2Y3l8Gx/s1600/Turban1.jpg" /></a></div>
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For more turban, have a look at Brothers and Sisters website: <a href="http://www.brothersandsisters.biz/">www.brothersandsisters.biz</a>HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-6593325144080129172015-06-18T07:49:00.003+02:002016-01-11T13:43:28.838+01:00I spy with my little eye...the 30 things I know for sure.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ramadan is a time to reflect on yourself and the way you live your life. Being an expat in the Middle East, this usually rubs off on me. The work days are reduced, the city is silent, families leave the country, it is 40 degrees Celsius outside, there isn't much to do until sundown, so I end up reading, cooking and enjoying some quiet time. A couple of months ago I came across <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sandra-bienkowski/48-things-i-know-for-sure_b_6859356.html">Sandra Bienkowski's</a> list of 48 things she knows for sure on the Huffington Post, that made me think of the 30 lessons I have learned so far, which is a good way to start this Holy month of Ramadan:</div>
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1- Find something everyday that makes you smile.</div>
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2- Know yourself and learn to handle your fears/shortcomings. No one should have to manage them for you.</div>
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3- Spend time with people who make you smile.</div>
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4- Life isn't that serious.</div>
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5- Be curious, never say never.</div>
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6- Hair will grow back. Don't be scared to experiment.</div>
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7- Always wonder if things that make you sad or stress you out will matter in 5 years time.</div>
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8- Challenge yourself, but do it on your own terms. What matters is how you feel.</div>
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9- Listen. A lot.</div>
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10- The only way to know is to go for it.</div>
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11- Take time to reflect. Don't forget to breathe.</div>
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12- Never think that you are done growing up or learning.</div>
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13- Don't give advice unless you were asked. You don't necessarily know better and have no right to judge.</div>
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14- Learn when to walk away or go for a run before you say things you might regret.</div>
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15- It's ok not to know where you are going in life. Trust that you are doing the best you can with whatever you have and know at the time.</div>
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16- Embrace the decisions you took. However it turns out, you did the best you could.</div>
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17- You have a right to say no.</div>
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18- Immediate emotional reactions are rarely a good idea.</div>
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19- Remember that everything isn't about you.</div>
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20- Indecision is a decision.</div>
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21- Brains are sexy.</div>
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22- Everything doesn't have to be perfect. Starting somewhere and perfecting along the way is better than doing nothing.</div>
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23- Being consistent will take you far.</div>
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24- Don't underestimate details: they can make or ruin someone's day.</div>
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25- Listen to your body: you only have one.</div>
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26- Allow people to come and go in your life, you never know what the future holds.</div>
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27- Learn a lesson from every experience, good or bad.</div>
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28- Be polite and mean it.</div>
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29- Try. At least once.</div>
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30- Don't take life changing decisions when you are feeling really high or really low.<br />
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Ramadan Kareem ya'all!</div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-79249839791417104552015-06-12T08:52:00.002+02:002015-06-12T08:52:41.111+02:00I spy with my little eye... the case of the banana bread.<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love to bake and I usually go for simple hearty recipes, I can't really be bothered with rose petals and frosting, so knowing that, banana bread should have been a hit. But being a bit lazy at times (and maybe a bit over-confident), I figured I didn't need a recipe, I could just alter one into a banana bread, so I started by adding mashed bananas in a yogurt cake... epic fail. The consistency did not blend properly, and I ended up with a stone, literally. Then I tried to add bananas to a sponge cake, there again, big fail: for some unknown reason, it refused to cook. For my third attempt, I actually picked a recipe on the internet: this one wouldn't raise despite the baking powder. To be honest, I would have given up after this third attempt if my friend M. didn't keep on presenting me with her perfect banana breads, which kept tickling my stubbornness. Eventually I declared defeat and asked her for her recipe, that has since, never failed. Funny how sometimes the simple things are the hardest thing to achieve.</div>
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M. was traveling recently and she was emptying her fridge, so she turned to me with a smile: "Here Flo, would you take these 2 ripe bananas? Maybe time for a banana bread?". We both laughed at my baking experiences and disasters, so now that I have it all figured out, I thought I would share the love and recipe:</div>
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- 1 cup of melted unsalted butter</div>
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- 2 cups of flour</div>
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- 1 cup of sugar</div>
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- 2-3 ripe bananas</div>
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- vanilla</div>
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- cinnamon</div>
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- 1 egg</div>
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- 1 teaspoon of baking powder</div>
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Basically just blend everything together and bake for 45min at 180 degrees celsius. </div>
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Enjoy!</div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-61204961902421721452015-05-23T14:17:00.002+02:002015-05-23T14:17:31.798+02:00I spy with my little eye... the Austrian escape.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anybody who's been in Dubai for more than a year is familiar with the need to escape. I love the sandpit and I chose to be here, but every couple of months, I need to get away. Every couple of months, I need to get back to greenery, history and simplicity, and last month C. and R. wedding in Austria was the perfect escape: a short flight, a long week-end, a lot of laughter and memories. Despite being Irish, the couple decided to get married in Poysdorf (norh of Vienna), where they bought a lovely little farm, and to keep it very very simple. The most important for them was to make sure people would be able to make it, so they prioritised logistics over grandeur: most of the details were handmade, the bride found her dress in a second-hand shop, friends made the cakes, the invites, the brunch the morning after was hosted by the couple etc... It was simple and warm, they made sure we were taken care of and organised transportation, hotels, hydrated and well fed. </div>
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After a 5h flight, I discovered Poysdorf, Austria, wine region.<br />
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<span style="color: black;">Austria wouldn't be Austria without beer and cold cuts...</span></div>
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The morning of the big day, I woke up and realised I was going to have to dig deep in my memory to manage breakfast in german: despite studying german for several years, sign language sounded like the better option, that's how bad I am...<br />
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After failing at putting together one single german sentence, it was time to put on the wedding attire, hope for a sunny day and head to church. </div>
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I have a peculiar relationship with churches: they make me giggle, and I am always interested in looking the exact opposite to where the action is... which is how I caught the groom giving the choir the signal to start singing for the bride's walk down the aisle:<br />
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The ceremony was short, sweet and joyful. And the... it was time to celebrate!<br />
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A big Merci to the lovely couple for such a fun week-end! It looked and sounded like them: warm, joyful, Irish, Austrian, simple, very well organised, attentive... with lots of wine!HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-30223622686208862392015-03-28T18:41:00.003+01:002015-03-29T07:20:19.948+02:00I spy with my little... the highlife vintage style posters.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dubai is getting more and more quirky and I am loving it! Markets are popping everywhere, there are more and more restaurants that look like actual bars (aka unpretentious, and smiley), food trucks are appearing on the beach etc... You can even find people who don't take themselves or Dubai seriously, how amazing and refreshing is that?</div>
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Clare Napper, a former Saatchi and Saatchi Bristish designer, who's been in Dubai 8 years, got inspired by both our expat lifestyle where everything is easy, and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Broders">Roger Broders</a> depictions of France touristy sites in the 1930's-1940's. I love the satire and honesty of her observation, as much as the retro style of these simple, yet spot on posters. Yes golf sucks in summer, yes, Jumeirah Janes are lost without their nannies, yes, the Palm is a posh neighbourhood... all these things that make me roll my eyes but also make Dubai what it is are condensed in this collection of 18 artworks.<br />
To see the full collection, click here: <a href="http://www.highlife-dubai.com/">www.highlife-dubai.com</a></div>
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<br />HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-1727499152529432592015-03-21T13:44:00.000+01:002015-03-21T13:44:06.157+01:00I spy with my little eye... Spring time with Chantelle!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Spring is coming! I am not one to change my wardrobe with every change of season, but I have a tendency to crave new lingerie when in Spring and Autumn. When <a href="http://ae.chantelle.com/">Chantelle</a> new collection landed in my mailbox a couple of days ago, I instantly fell for Merci ensemble in grey. I loved the romantic subtle colour and art deco patterns, it made me think of a lazy Sunday afternoon in the South of France, in an old rustic house full vintage wallpaper and cracking wooden floors...</div>
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I realised after I shot this picture I had picked the same model but in a different colour... That tells you how much I loved it. As much as I like a classical style, I think Parisians have it a little bit too easy: you can't really go wrong if the only colours you wear are plain black, white, navy, beige or grey. That's just lazy fashion if you ask me. I like to add a touch of colour (it's Spring, let's go crazy!), for example that pastel yellow ensemble would be perfect under a grey sweater and black carrot pants!</div>
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For more information about Chantelle new collection, click <a href="http://www.chantelle.com/">here</a>.HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-22044022894546159362015-03-02T05:27:00.000+01:002015-03-02T05:27:02.412+01:00I spy with my little eye... The Paradis - French Kitchen.<div style="text-align: justify;">
The french restaurant <a href="http://www.leparadisdufruit.fr/">Le Paradis du Fruit</a> was always one of my favourite places to catch up with the girls in Paris. The concept of healthy, light cuisine wasn't really popular in France 10 years ago so this little gem was a novelty at the time: I remember I discovered frozen yoghurt thanks to them. So when I heard they were opening a branch at <a href="http://thebeach.ae/">The Beach</a>, I couldn't wait to check it out. </div>
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They've always been known for their healthy menu but also colourful interior design featuring Philippe Starck details. Just walking into the restaurant feels like you've had a shot of vitamins!</div>
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I was happy to see that their menu is still as healthy and appetising as it used to be: the salads and smoothies without any added sugar are the highlights. But since I was there for breakfast, I decided to go unhealthy and get the French breakfast... You can get the French girl out of Paris but you can't get the croissant out of the French girl.</div>
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I started with a kiwi/apple/mint smoothie that looked a bit surprising to be honest because the kiwi and apple juice didn't mix nicely, but it was refreshing to see something normal and not utterly perfect in Dubai. The very few juices I make at home tend to look a bit strange too, which is why: 1- I stopped making them, 2- I could tell this was freshly made. It was tasty and light, just as promised.</div>
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Then I tucked in the pain au chocolat: I hadn't had such a light and buttery pastry since <a href="http://www.hintofbeautiful.com/2014/07/i-spy-with-my-little-eye-breakfast-at.html">La Serre</a>, and my lovely breakfast buddy <a href="https://instagram.com/tjasha/">Tjasha</a> who definitively knows a good croissant when she sees one agreed that it was one of the best she had had in Dubai!</div>
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The bread selection with home-made jam were nice, and the coffee very good, but what I appreciated best after the menu and pain au chocolat is the service. It was fast, efficient, smiley and french! Whether I was talking to the waiter, the manager, or the guy making smoothies and juices behind the bar, everybody was speaking french, it definitively felt like home!<br />
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Happy gal! Thank you <a href="http://www.leparadisdufruit.ae/">Le Paradis - French Kitchen</a>, I will be back!<br />
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More information on: <a href="http://www.leparadisdufruit.ae/">http://www.leparadisdufruit.ae/</a>HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-44372916894542222162015-01-23T06:34:00.001+01:002015-01-23T06:34:19.296+01:00I spy with my little eye... a road trip to Saida and Tyr.<div style="text-align: justify;">
What I loved the most about Beirut was the joyful, constant and loud mess! Jumping in a car with all the cousins, turning on the cheesy music, singing and dancing while racing with my uncle's car, stopping on the way for mana'iches, fooling around at the check points, and ending up by the sea, feet in the water in December.</div>
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Yallah, let's go to Tyr!</div>
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But first, let's stop in Saida to visit the old soap factory (that just happens to be in a gorgeous house).</div>
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Saint Exupery said that love wasn't looking into each other eyes, but looking in the same direction... Looks like lil sis' and her boyfriend are on a good track.</div>
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Might as well get coffee and pastries while we're here... We haven't eaten in 1h30, we definitively need a snack...</div>
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Then let's have a tour of Saida's soukh. (Note to self: shopping with a Lebanese family is the best way to test one's patience.) Bananas anyone?</div>
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Or maybe 10kg of fresh meat?</div>
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And my personal favourite: the disco veggie stall!</div>
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Eventually we got back in the car and headed to Tyr to find... the sea.</div>
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Cousins made plans to cross the sea.<br />
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And Lebanon gifted us with a gorgeous sunset. What an amazing day!<br />
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HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-43810579560361442792015-01-17T08:26:00.000+01:002015-01-17T18:37:19.219+01:00I spy with my little eye... a New Year.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sometimes all you need is some time out and family to reboot. And that's exactly what I did in Beirut over the holidays: no phone, no emails, sometimes no electricity but LOTS of food, card games and laughter. I've always felt more French than Lebanese despite being half half but 10 days in a real city with no sparkle was exactly what I needed after 3 years of full-on Dubai. I know I'm a bit late but we're still in Jan so I'm enjoying the "holiday mood" extra time with a belated Christmas post.</div>
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Here is lil'sis who just moved from Paris to Beirut with Birdie, the most silent pointer on Earth. She never barks, and all she asks for is cuddles.</div>
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Birdie was very keen on the celebration, here she is, discussing with my mother. Yes, we do have that habit of discussing with pets. It applies to dogs, cats, monkeys, horses, parrots... I will never forget Jujupe, my grandfather's parrot in Nigeria, who used to play around with lil'sis: she would make her run down the stairs several times a day by taking my aunt's voice to call her.</div>
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Family portraits with the aunts.<br />
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Funny how cooking the turkey is a woman's job but carving it is always a man's job.<br />
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Birdie's best Chrismas present: cuddles with my cousin!<br />
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Happy times always lead to funny selfies, or "ussies" like my aunt calls them. "Did you take an ussie?" "Sorry, a what?" "A picture of us, an ussie!"<br />
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And it always ends up with flowers and hugs, happy times!<br />
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<br />HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-67153862877000911992014-12-16T07:06:00.000+01:002014-12-16T07:06:03.498+01:00I spy with my little eye... Christmassy Cocktails!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Less than 10 days to Christmas and I'm running out of time. I still don't have all presents figured out, which is a great excuse to have cocktails and brainstorm so you can imagine how perfect <a href="http://www.royalchinadubai.com/">Royal China's</a> invitation to a mixology class sounded! Being raised in a French family came with a wine education (do not mess with my red wine: the last sommelier who tried to have me drink Syrah through a blind test was <a href="http://www.lpmdubai.ae/">La Petite Maison's</a> and he got disappointed), but I am clueless when it comes to cocktails. I learned how to drink martinis here in Dubai with my New Yorker friends, I know how I like my Bloody Mary and I like a good Hendrick's G&T but that pretty much it. Which makes me the perfect candidate for a mixology class!</div>
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I will be honest, I can't remember the recipes, but what I will take with me is that a good mixologist is one that serves as good a story as a cocktail. It's all about the entertainment and spending a good time. And at this game, Drago, Royal China's new mixologist was a real treat: good banter with the gentlemen, flirty with the ladies, I highly recommend him. Oh and the drinks were good too (nearly forgot about them!).</div>
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My cocktail education is clearly not done yet, I still have a lot to learn. For now, I am happy to observe and enjoy the ride and pretty colours!</div>
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Thank you <a href="http://www.royalchinadubai.com/">Royal China</a>, looking forward to more cocktail adventures!</div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-10859912390773194212014-12-03T07:53:00.001+01:002014-12-03T07:53:48.699+01:00I spy with my little eye... the "Hats of yesterday and tomorrow - Take 2".<div style="text-align: justify;">
Take 2 of the "Hats of yesterday and tomorrow" is with Aseya from <a href="http://hello-pretty.com/">Hello Pretty</a> and <a href="http://www.prettyinthedesert.com/">Pretty in the Desert</a>! She picked a 1920's burgundy little hat that I absolutely love!</div>
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For her look she chose to stress on the lips with a burgundy red lipstick and subtle brownish eye shadow. I love how her blond hair highlights the colour of the piece.</div>
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For me, she decided to keep it low and simple stress on the pink cheeks. It ended up being quite a natural dolly look, nothing flapperlike, no big eyebrow, no dark eyeshadow, just something light, which I love: the star is the hat!</div>
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I loved spending time with Aseya; half American, half Emirati, she's one on those people who have been in Dubai for so long they know all the good places and are unimpressed by the city of bling's Extravaganza. And I like that. She is easy going, chilled, fun and professional. So I figured if I liked her, you might like her too:</div>
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HOB: If you could live in a painting, which one would it be?</div>
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Aseya: It would be Georgia O'Keeffe's Abstraction Blue. The colours are so soothing, I would just flaot around in the painting all day.</div>
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HOB: If you could live in a different era, which one would you pick and why?<br />Aseya: It would be the late 60s/early 70s. I really love the music from that period.</div>
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HOB: What piece of clothing reminds you of your mother/father? </div>
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Aseya: Cropped pants always remind me of my mom, and traditional Emirati kundooras always remind me of my dad.</div>
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HOB: What scent takes you right back to your childhood?</div>
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Aseya: Christmas trees always take me back. Every year :)</div>
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HOB: When do you feel on holiday?</div>
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Aseya: I'm usually rushing around before a trip, so I am too busy to feel like I'm on holiday. But as soon as I'm in the new city and I open the curtains and look outside, I get that feeling of excitement that comes with being able to explore a new place.</div>
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HOB: What designer would you take on a camel ride?</div>
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Aseya: Betsy Johnson. She seems like she would be a riot!</div>
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HOB: Your favourite recipe to make?</div>
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Aseya: I make a really great fudgy chocolate brownie.</div>
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HOB: Best piece of advice you were ever given?</div>
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Aseya: Listen to your body; it knows what is best for you. Pay attention to changes in your mood and feelings.</div>
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HOB: What book changed your life?</div>
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Aseya: "Tuesdays with Morrie" was the first book I read that made me feel emotional. It really made me think about life.</div>
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HOB: The movie you've watched 30 times but might watch again tonight?<br />Aseya: I don't watch too many movies, but I love the show Arrested Development and I rewatch it every year.</div>
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HOB: Three favourite spots in Dubai?</div>
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Asyea: Smiling BKK, the Meydan Bike Park (I love skating there at night, when it's quiet and dark), Souq Al Bahar.</div>
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Don't forget to visit <a href="http://hello-pretty.com/">hellopretty.com</a></div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-2784405843712819502014-12-01T06:26:00.003+01:002014-12-01T06:28:50.851+01:00I spy with my little eye... a truffle galore.<div style="text-align: justify;">
A couple of weeks ago I was discussing food with D. and we were debating expensive taste, how very Dubai of us... The conclusion of this crucial conversation was that we both loved truffle, but I could live without oysters and she didn't understand caviar, but since we had truffle in common, I figured she was the perfect date to test the <a href="http://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-dubai/index.aspx">Oberoi Dubai's</a> truffle menu at their restaurant <a href="http://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-dubai/restaurants.aspx">Umai.</a> the Oberoi has a special place in my heart: I love their warm hospitality mostly embodied by German chef Dirk Haltenhof who always has a story to share.</div>
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I will admit I didn't think they would push the truffle tasting so far as to put it in the cocktails! To be honest the white truffle pear Martini didn't work for me. The fact that I don't like pear should have been an indicator though... But D. was happy to take over my glass while I tried the Truffle aperol Spritzer, I'm usually not an Aperol gal' but the truffle was an interesting twist. All in all it was interesting but I'm not sure I would make it a regular.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz2953Mx6z-3AxXAzgBI5KMFe5yZ6HAIM76S0WV1yk8-evg5rxCcsQKaV-w2GRGZzcbXEqVoi4Dc2sBSG7rwStVdTNUuxkJFXRDJgeIrSGSv2YqY59Kmw_4i8ZhPrdWtDw75ivE9uHdY9b/s1600/unnamed%5B4%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz2953Mx6z-3AxXAzgBI5KMFe5yZ6HAIM76S0WV1yk8-evg5rxCcsQKaV-w2GRGZzcbXEqVoi4Dc2sBSG7rwStVdTNUuxkJFXRDJgeIrSGSv2YqY59Kmw_4i8ZhPrdWtDw75ivE9uHdY9b/s1600/unnamed%5B4%5D.jpg" /></a> If the cocktails were not my thing, I loved the menu: mixing Japanese cuisines and truffle is not an easy thing and Chef Haltenhof made it work, Bravo Monsieur! </div>
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I was expecting black truffle since this is the one I am used to, but I was a little bit wary because it is a strong flavor and a whole black truffle menu would have been a bit much. So I was happy (and kind of relieved) to see that half of the menu was based on white truffle, which is a more subtle taste. The truffle scented dim sum smelled and tasted) heavenly.</div>
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I didn't know what to expect with the truffle lollipop, so these meat and truffle cheese balls were such a good surprise! The texture was rich, the cheese was melting, it felt very indulgent.</div>
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Then came the sushi with the truffle infused rice, followed by the truffle mash and black sea bream, that was more of a classic dish.</div>
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I enjoyed all of it, along with the joyful conversation of my truffle cocktail infused lovely friend! Thank you to the Oberoi for this unexpected experience, they keep surprising me and my palate and we are both loving it! Keep an eye on that hotel, they are full of surprises!</div>
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For more information, click <a href="http://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-dubai/index.aspx">here.</a></div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-30231393766871062872014-11-19T07:53:00.001+01:002014-11-19T07:53:06.901+01:00I spy with my little eye... the "Hats of yesterday and tomorrow - Take 1".<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you know it by now, I love my hats and my collection is growing every time I travel. They are usually hanging on the wall in the living room, on display (so I can grab one whenever I want just before I go out). I don't know why we stopped wearing them on an everyday basis, probably out of convenience I guess, but I refuse to let them on the wall of the living room. So after a couple of months of thinking and discussing with beauty bloggers, I came up with the "Hats of yesterday and tomorrow" project. The concept is easy, I simply asked a few beauty bloggers to choose a hat and create one contemporary look on themselves, and one vintage look corresponding tothe era of the hat on me, just to show that they are all wearable nowadays.</div>
<br />
So here is Take 1 of the "Hats of yesterday and tomorrow" is with Anna from <a href="http://thesparklingblueberry.com/">The Sparkling Blueberry</a>. She chose a 1950's sailor hat, one of the most wearable hats that I own: an easy felt dark blue. She created a very modern colour block look on herself:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9Msk3FduTjRDRtf4kkgiAW0g8zN29tK8ACgrKZBvy_fO4VHs9lSg2AyaY-SLtz0HH1bAcUxSAY0cdLDZ3R0Ps0upsnmxJ1cu8w1SZBTXuQjwHoLp0-8Uznf9AP6NmKvRhT-gxpPzROg7/s1600/unnamed%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9Msk3FduTjRDRtf4kkgiAW0g8zN29tK8ACgrKZBvy_fO4VHs9lSg2AyaY-SLtz0HH1bAcUxSAY0cdLDZ3R0Ps0upsnmxJ1cu8w1SZBTXuQjwHoLp0-8Uznf9AP6NmKvRhT-gxpPzROg7/s1600/unnamed%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a></div>
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And for me she used darker colours, with a burgundy lipstick and very dark eyes for a dramatic 1950's look Ahoy sailors!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6c7BQLboEoQeqL-aiTZQAmfadDIq6Z011mUfZQzlObWkmJ5DuO1dAGzVeuIimCH3q3lEB8tBAuvtAA5uh55_Kc7x1QWclGuJpVsAJRhZC2huQpjsr7grDLMyncC8fIWANj-4ChTdEX6q/s1600/unnamed%5B2%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6c7BQLboEoQeqL-aiTZQAmfadDIq6Z011mUfZQzlObWkmJ5DuO1dAGzVeuIimCH3q3lEB8tBAuvtAA5uh55_Kc7x1QWclGuJpVsAJRhZC2huQpjsr7grDLMyncC8fIWANj-4ChTdEX6q/s1600/unnamed%5B2%5D.jpg" /></a></div>
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So you have it: 1 hat, 2 looks!<br />
I had a lot of fun working with Anna, she is very professional, focused, sharp and creative. So I thought it would be a good opportunity to get to know her better so I asked her to answer the HOB interview:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: inherit; mso-fareast-font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: If you could live in
a painting, which one would it be?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #444444;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #444444;">Anna: There was a famous Hungarian painter
Pál Szinyei-Merse who has this amazing painting called “Picnic in May”. That
art piece for me showing something that I can really imagine doing in the 18th
century. It’s so laid back, calm but playful and flirty in the same time. You can see it </span><a href="http://silverandexact.com/2011/03/21/picnic-in-may-pal-szinyei-merse-1873/">here.</a></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: inherit; mso-fareast-font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: If you could live in
a different era, which one would you pick and why?<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Anna: I love the 17th-18th century, mainly the Romantic era (<em>note: I'm not sure if it's called like that in English too, but in Hungary we call it British Romanticism in literature</em>). I miss the lifestyle and habits that, for example, Jane Austen (my favourite writer) pictures in her work. But sure that has a darker side as well, because those centuries were great for the richer but much worse for the poorer.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">HOB: What piece of clothing reminds you of
your mother/father?</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anna: My father has a weird attraction for flat caps, so every time
I see one it makes me smile and think “My Dad can really rock this one”. My Mom
is into fur…but not the regular “rich fur” ones, but more of the old, second
hand and weird type of fur coats which sometimes makes her look like she just
stepped out from Game Of Thrones.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: What scent takes you right back to
your childhood?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anna: The smell of hot, hazelnut flavoured oatmeal (my favourite
childhood meal) and the air in the forest filled with the scent of wild
mushrooms and fallen leaves. (We spent million hours in the forests collecting
mushrooms with my grandparents and parents)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: When do you feel on holiday?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anna: Good question. It’s very rare that I can completely switch
off. Sometimes the fact that you don’t have to go to work doesn’t mean that you
don’t work. My brain is always “working” thinking on the next thing to do, the
possibilities, creating new ideas etc. If I can just completely empty my mind,
sit with a glass of wine at a bar in Paris and just enjoying the moment, that’s
when I feel I’m free.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: What designer would you take on a
camel ride?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anna: I think Isabel Marant
could really enjoy one, without making any scenes because of the sand on her
sneakers ;)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: Your favourite recipe to make? <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anna: Easy to answer; my favourite recipe to
make -and to eat as well- is Potato Casserole. That’s my ultimate number one
food, which I make really good. Unfortunately my husband don’t like it in
general, so I haven't had it for 2 years, but you reminded me now so I know
what will I have this weekend </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: inherit; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: inherit; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">
</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></span></b> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: Best piece of
advice you were ever given?<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anna: People are not changing, accept them as
they are or don’t even start with them, but never ever believe that you will be
able to change someone. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: What book changed your life?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anna: The one that taught me how to read in first grade… since then
I’m completely addicted to the letters doesn’t matter if it’s reading or
writing. I had a lot of nice memories according to books and sometimes they
really planted thoughts in my head, but none of them were literally “life
changing” so far. I’m still looking for The One ;)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">
</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></span></b> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: The movie you've watched 30 times
but might watch again tonight?<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anna: Ok… that’s awkward but I can watch
Harry Potter movies over and over again no matter how many times, and same with
the LOTR sequel as well. This magical/fantasy thing can really switch me off.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">HOB: Three favourite spots in Dubai?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anna: 1- Burj Al Hammam in the
Jumeirah Beach Plaza. That is my favourite restaurant, where they serve the
nicest Lebanese dishes and they have the best Kibbeh Nayeh (raw meat paste)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2- Safa Park and now Zabeel
Park with the Ripe Fresh market: During the cooler months it was such an
amazing experience to wake up early and to go out to feel like in a real
market, just like in Europe. The vendors and the crowd also has great variety,
there are organic food stands, clothes, décor and even beauty items.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3- Mercato Mall: It
might sounds funny but this small mall in Jumeirah is my ultimate favourite. It’s
so refreshing after the huge and crowded malls, and the selection of shops and
services are almost perfect (I miss an H&M from it, but whatever…).</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #444444;"></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #444444;">Have a look at <a href="http://thesparklingblueberry.com/">The Sparkling Blueberry!</a></span></span></div>
</o:p><div style="text-align: justify;">
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HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-80535828797801804032014-11-17T08:01:00.000+01:002014-11-18T05:53:08.823+01:00I spy with my little eye... a new home and a couple of Dubai lessons.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bonjour pitchouns, sorry for the lack of posts. Despite what it looks like, I did come back from Hong Kong eventually. I've actually been back for a month but life has been upside down and now that I found a balance, I thought it would be a good time to share what I learned in Dubai in 3 years. These turmoil periods always make me think and when I finally settle somewhere with my cup of latte and a cookie, I like to reflect on the whole experience and write down my lessons.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ30hc8cJGZxTSaU5a6sLsQfVvi-3SKcrtyI5KXBTNN5jqe1rC-_6qNkKRTfHd2yZpri3cqRyeKHIFyAMV-f1i5de1xLg7MWGqbn1yrvOhdC9bXpEIm_HznvlvYRKWJut8PN0G8js08013/s1600/unnamed%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ30hc8cJGZxTSaU5a6sLsQfVvi-3SKcrtyI5KXBTNN5jqe1rC-_6qNkKRTfHd2yZpri3cqRyeKHIFyAMV-f1i5de1xLg7MWGqbn1yrvOhdC9bXpEIm_HznvlvYRKWJut8PN0G8js08013/s1600/unnamed%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a>My grandparents were expats, my parents were expats, I am an expat, it's part of who I am, but I finally found my limit: 6 houses within a year, this is too much. I had no idea when I moved to Dubai that I would adopt the Bedouin lifestyle, this isn't really what I was going for. But things happen and you just have to adapt. I have friends who like their cosy houses, I do too, but I am lucky to have been used to packing, unpacking, travelling light and moving often. I learned how to make a home early and quickly, I have a couple of things, silly little things that I need around me to feel at home, like landmarks: my morning mug, the Fortnum and Mason tin where I keep my coffee, a couple of prints that I like and one or two hats. As long as these are around, I'm comfortable. This is how I roll.</div>
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Now about Dubai. Friends back home always say that Dubai is bling-bling and glamorous and has a lot of attitude, well I think Dubai gave me a couple of lessons of humility:</div>
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1- Coming here as an expat, you discover you are in competition with people who are as capable as you are and will work for half your salary.</div>
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2- Speaking fluent English is not an exploit, Filipinos and Indians are much better than you are. This is a special message for my French "compatriotes".</div>
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3- I can confirm that I am more of a pot luck normal expat gal', rather than a boozy brunch or yacht: I love spending my day with friends but I like to remember it...</div>
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4- Filtering is key. Don't follow every piece of advice you hear. People build their own world according to their own needs and personality. Listen but filter: as much as I understand the importance of marketing oneself, not everybody has it in them to attend 4 events a night, keep mingling and manage to look fabulous by 45 degrees, and that's ok.</div>
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5- Know your friends. I've met amazing people here. People I can call in the middle of the night and will drop everything to come and get me if I need them to. I'm extremely grateful to have them in my life.</div>
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6- Surprisingly, I've learned to lower my standards in Dubai. You would think that it would be the opposite but no: with the cost of life rising tremendously every year and the salaries not following, I actually live less comfortably than I did in Paris. I'm absolutely fine and happy where I am but Dubai is not as comfortable as you'd think.</div>
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7- Keep an eye on your bank account. Dubai isn't what it used to be 10 years ago, life is expensive and expat contracts are rare. Young expats come here, enjoy the expensive lifestyle, the beach, trainers, sun, boozy brunches, and forget why they came here in the first place. Saving is not as common as in Europe. Because it feels like you're on holiday, it's easy to spend much more than you normally would, and you wake up one day, all your friends have put money down for houses and flats while you were sipping champagne on a boat and, there is a weird feeling that you've missed the boat. Dubai is full of Peter Pans, it's not a bad thing, just a fact.</div>
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8- I love the fact that Dubai is a place where you can still create, there is space for new ideas, everything hasn't been done yet. But I've seen so many people with ideas who get caught up in Dubai social whirlwind and end up postponing their plans. Making space to get things done and keeping yourself in check is important. At least to me.</div>
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That's a little insight into what has been going on in my head lately. I'm sure you all have your own expat experience, and I absolutely love mine, but I like the idea of being real. </div>
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So this is what my Dubai is like.</div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-44124175700299122042014-10-25T09:36:00.000+02:002015-03-02T05:32:05.808+01:00I spy with my little eye... Hong Kong Diaries - Part 3!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last Hong Kong post! This is the one where we take the ferry and cross the bay to get on to mainland. It seemed like a pretty straightforward deal: get to harbour, get on a boat, get on the other side of the bay. Except that there are 5 or 6 different boat companies, and that nobody seemed willing to answer our questions. It took a solid half an hour and a couple of helpful Americans to finally understand that Star Ferry was the only one going back and forth without going around all islands. That is the one wisdom word I want to pass on: Star Ferry is the way to mainland. </div>
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The view from the other side of the bay is fantastic and the city has a different vibe, I found it much more modern with skyscrapers and big avenues (as opposed to tiny paved and steep streets). </div>
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We walked around Prince Edward station, I wanted to have a look at the markets, starting with the flower market. The colours, the happy people shopping, the kitsch arrangements, I loved everything about it.</div>
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Right at the end of the flower market, we found the bird market. I always have mixed feelings about animal markets: I find it sad to see all those birds in cages, at the same time, I have amazing memories of playing with my grandfather's parrots in Nigeria. One day maybe I will make up my mind, but for now, I choose to remain perplexed...</div>
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After this long walk, we took the metro under the water to get back to the island and get back to Central Hong Kong, around Hollywood Road. We found ourselves in Upper Lascar Row, surrounded by antics. Some of them real, some of them fake, but all good fun!</div>
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Finally we sat down at <a href="http://www.fishandmeat.hk/">Fish & Meat</a> for one of the best dinners I had in Hong Kong! The team and caring, the food was tasty and simple (and generous!). This burrata was fantastic and I can't even start with the pavlova! Thank you to the chef for signing our menu and sharing the love!</div>
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The lessons of this last day in Hong Kong:</div>
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1- I admire Hong Kongers discipline: I had never seen people queue to get into the metro.There are lines on the platform. I'm impressed by the fact that despite the city being over-crowded, I didn't feel claustrophobic. </div>
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2- Hong Kong island and mainland are very different, it felt like different cities.</div>
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3- Don't stop walking. We thought we had seen all of Hollywood road until we let the streets guide us to Upper Lascar Row where we realised we had missed plenty of vintage treasures. </div>
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Thank you Hong Kong for a great time!</div>
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<br />HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250749251682333248.post-9911678055267505802014-10-18T06:36:00.000+02:002014-10-18T06:36:22.746+02:00I spy with my little eye... Hong Kong Diaries - Part 2.<div style="text-align: justify;">
I will admit that with the jet lag, we didn't manage to wake up before 11am, so we never made it to breakfast. Doesn't mean we didn't enjoy every bit of <a href="http://www.thepottinger.com/en/about-us/facilities-services.php">our hotel</a>: for some reason, I completely fell for their wall paper... </div>
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Eventually we ventured out to go and explore Wanchai. We had lunch at <a href="http://22ships.hk/">22 Ships</a> on Ship Street: gastronomical tapas with coffee wasn't the best idea, it was a bit early, but I loved seating and eating on the street!</div>
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After lunch we wandered the streets of Wanchai, just to realise that it was clearly a nightlife kind of neighbourhood. There wasn't a lot to see but our walk took us to the financial district where the protests took place. There were only a few umbrellas left, it felt like the only ones left didn't get the memo saying that the meeting point had changed. The roads were empty, it felt like a ghost town. </div>
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The one thing I remember from Wanchai is that it felt less international than Central Hong Kong, I was surprise to see how the balance between oriental and occidental culture varies from one neighbourhood to an other.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYIm_GRSXDhZP4ov5ne3SC4cgN2APUAq0wos22i4TPZg19RWhkHcWYq3C3No-SnROFYiYOYFyOGRaBEkLZB8OKADs6O1vT7cFvGSqTaYDVEtI92aTT7V02ssgj-EpPpwKqsWlaF3sFT2O/s1600/Photo+Oct+09,+12+18+23+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYIm_GRSXDhZP4ov5ne3SC4cgN2APUAq0wos22i4TPZg19RWhkHcWYq3C3No-SnROFYiYOYFyOGRaBEkLZB8OKADs6O1vT7cFvGSqTaYDVEtI92aTT7V02ssgj-EpPpwKqsWlaF3sFT2O/s1600/Photo+Oct+09,+12+18+23+PM.jpg" /></a></div>
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With such a packed city, HongKongers have become experts in making the most of every bit of space. Coming from Dubai where space is the one thing we never run out, it is quite impressive.</div>
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On our way back to Central, the Gentleman stopped at <a href="http://thearmoury.com/en">The Armoury</a> for some bespoke shopping. After turning around the building for a solid 20min, we finally found the entrance and eventually made our way up to the 3rd floor of Pedder Building. Big up for the vintage fabric ties and passionate staff!</div>
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Then we headed to <a href="http://www.sevva.hk/">Sevva</a> on the rooftop of Prince's building for a cocktail and a fantastic view of Hong Kong. The cocktails were interesting and the sunset, amazing. It is expensive but perfect for a special occasion.</div>
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Finally we met K. who moved to Hong Kong a couple of months ago for dinner at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BiboHongKong">Bibo</a>. I would highly recommend it: it is located in an old station, underground, and they managed to gather an amazing amount of art pieces. From Banksy to Kaws, and Tsang Tsoi Choi, there is a strong street art vibe displayed like an accumulation of piece, making the space a visual feast for the eye. What happens in the plate is as explosive as the decor: subtle flavors and lots of colours, I loved it! Oh, and the team is adorable!</div>
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The lessons of this 2nd day in Hong Kong:</div>
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1- don't believe everything the media say: the Umbrella revolution was nothing threatening from what I experienced. We arrived in Hong Kong at the end of the movement but there was absolutely no reason to feel unsafe, people were peacefully (and passionately) demonstrating. They were eager and happy to share but there was no violence whatsoever. And to be honest, my french revolution history background felt a lot of empathy.</div>
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2- you've got to admire Hong Kongers sense of design. The city is a mess but they find ways to make it evolve.</div>
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3- Hong Kongers have their own style. You don't see it everywhere but some of them of very edgy, in a very London way: street-style, sharp shapes and fluo colours. My favourite thing to do while seating with a drink watching people pass by was to chase the big eye contact lenses. They love it and it gives the ladies a kawai vibe that I love.</div>
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... to be continued...</div>
HOBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07138087364045683639noreply@blogger.com3