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The Middle East’s Growing Foodie Scene

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The popularity of Middle Eastern cuisine is cleansing the pallet of many tourists who take a trip over to Qatar, Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates. The menus in restaurants in KSA and throughout the Middle East are varied, contemporary and idiosyncratic, and are increasingly tailored to the styles of the modern day traveler. This guide aims to highlight some of the best eateries in the region.

Restaurants in Dubai

Pierchic: A restaurant set on a bedecked pier jutting out into the Arabian Gulf, this venue serves some of the most diverse and wonderful seafood cuisine in all of the Middle East. Pierchic is far away from the densely populated cities and has more of a focus on displaying the tranquil serenity of the sea.

Margaux: Executive Chef Julian Mercier first opened Margaux after learning under the legendary wing of triple Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse. The cuisine offered by the restaurant is of Mediterranean and French origin, and its décor is inspired by the same aspects of European culture.

Zheng He’s: Award-winning culinary artists at Zheng He’s present dishes that are drenched in Middle Eastern culture, whilst still retaining some of the old Chinese flavours. The setting, which is by the dockside, gives off a peaceful ambience which reflects the restaurant’s character.

Restaurants in Riyadh

The Globe: Romantic, sophisticated and elegant, The Globe is one of Saudi Arabia’s most prestigious eateries. Situated atop the Al Faisaliah Tower in a glassy orb, this fine-dining institution offers its guests traditional Saudi Arabian cuisine along with many European options.

Elements: The chefs at this restaurant like to involve the customer, as they present cuisine from all over the world in an interactive and lively environment. Elements serves breakfast, lunch and an a la carte menu, which can cater for even the fussiest of palates.

Karam Beirut: If you’re looking for a taste of Lebanon, look no further than this highly rated establishment. Popular dishes include the lamb cutlets and the mezze, as well as the traditional dish of fattoush. The restaurant is a popular destination for locals and travelers alike, so leave plenty of time to get a table.

Restaurants in Doha

The Cellar: This restaurant has mastered the art of serving distinct Spanish tapas, whilst simultaneously being able to offer guests a range of Mediterranean delights. Although the venue has expertise in serving tapas, it does offer a full range of fare to suit everyone’s tastes.

Ruby Wu’s: In the Doha Raddison Blue hotel lies a hidden gem known as Ruby Wu’s. Expertly prepared dishes that span the full culinary map of China are served with care and skill. The quality of food in the restaurant is always of the highest standard, and it is a great place to eat out before sampling all the sights that Doha has to offer.

Ric’s Country Kitchen: A far cry from the countryside, Ric’s Country Kitchen is situated in down-town Doha. The rather low-key venue is extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. Importantly, its homemade food speaks for itself, and it can all be enjoyed in a homely and welcoming atmosphere.

Sponsored post. Photos by Brian G. Wilson and acezz3000, used under the Creative Commons License.

A relaxing escape at Cove Rotana in Ras Al Khaimah

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The weather today reminds me of our amazing stay at The Cove Rotana in Ras Al Khaimah. A 45-minute travel on a Friday from Dubai gave us a very relaxing experience – from the time we checked-in until we left the place.

The place is like a huge compound of villas, lagoons and pools on a hill. We had to be transported by buggy golf cars up and down the zigzag pathways, especially during the scorching midday. Villas are about hundreds of meters away from a number of facilities.

The ride provides a bonus view of the sea and other scenery from atop. The summer breeze at night is good for a walk from our room to the restaurants, to the beach, to anywhere.

It was a one night stay in a single bedroom villa (studio type actually). Our space is huge enough for a queen-sized bed, a table and couch. The interior has a feel of mixed vintage and modern designs. The walls are decorated with Arabic decals and bricks that extends to the dome ceiling.

This is the brightest it could get lit on the room and we love it.

The balcony got us glued for quite some time. We have a great view of the pool. We see the lagoon connecting to the sea. The fresh air by the sea is soothing.

Since we’re in the mid part of the resort, we could see the villas on the higher and lower grounds behind the greens.

Except for the plastic monobloc chairs, rest of the view is perfectly fine.

Our location of 200 meters away from the beach didn’t allow us to hear the breezy waves, but the splashes from the pool is as good as music to the ears.

Obviously we love taking pictures (of ourselves), so we spent the half of day strolling around – posing on every corner of the resort.

We walked by the shore, along the cabanas, get wacky at the footbridge, emote by the bushes and flowers. We really appreciate the calm romantic ambiance The Cove has to offer.

The place was well laid out, regardless that the resort was fully booked that day, we didn’t see huge crowds forming.

We hit the pool before the sun go down and had more photos in and under water.

We had a sumptuous breakfast at about 7am the next day. Then we dipped for hours in the main infinity pool afterwards.  The view of endless waters is breathtaking.

To go back and forth our room, we had to wait for buggy car services stop by. And we were notified about it so we had to give ample time and avoid rush.

When we reached our room, a “birthday” cheese cake surprise was waiting. There’s actually no occasion, but we told the receptionist it’s our anniversary the next month. Sweet! It was so good I could finish it all.

Come our last hour, we headed to Cinnamon Restaurant for brunch. There’s a wide range of diverse international food selection – Arabic cuisine, Indian, Chinese, there’s a live cooking and grill station, and sushi and sashimi station too. My favorite, other than the dessert, was the fresh varieties of seafood.

We scheduled our couple spa after check-out (1pm) so we really could maximize all of our stay for other activities. We wanted to do it at the cabanas by the beach but they’re fully occupied that time it had to be done separately at the spa.

The wife had a 60 minute traditional Thai massage and I had Shiatsu. Very relaxing I fell asleep. Then, we spent around 30 minutes more at the jacuzzi and sauna – our tired yet fulfilled bodies can’t stop thanking us for doing so.

We’re very pleased at how polite and accommodating the staff are. The services are efficient.

This escape is one of the best we’ve had in the UAE – away from the bustling city, surrounded by greeneries which you don’t get often in the desert. Truly a refreshing and romantic break by the beach indeed.

Interesting numbers and records set in PBA in Dubai

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In Dubai, basketball never make it to sports news headline. It is always under the “other news” sections of the biggest publications.

For Filipino expats, it’s a different ballgame – especially when the PBA is in town. The first game between Rain or Shine and Globalport drew a respectable crowd while Rain or Shine’s match against Ginebra filled the Al Arabi Al Shabab stadium to the rafters – it’s an SRO.

Dubai is a city of world records and how best fit it is that the recent PBA games in Dubai also set some records of sorts for the league.

Let the numbers tell the story further:

1. It’s the 4th time PBA brought official games to Dubai – 7 games in total

    – 2007 – Ginebra, Purefoods
    – 2011 – Ginebra, Talk ‘n Text and BMEG
    – 2012 – Ginebra, Rain or Shine and Barako
    – 2015 – Ginebra, Rain or Shine and Globalport

Talk ‘n Text and Rain or Shine hold the record of the only teams that played 2 consecutive back-to-back games in the last 10 years in the league. Interestingly, Barangay Ginebra always joins the PBA when visiting Dubai. The loud and mammoth crowd testifies that Dubai is indeed the home away from home of the Barangay, so why not…

2. 3 of the most fiery coaches in the PBA today were present – Coaches Yeng Guiao, Pido Jarencio and Frankie Lim

They could scream and shout and let it all out on the hard court. Coach Pido almost didn’t make the trip as he was hospitalized for food poisoning prior to the trip

3. Terrence Romeo set a career high 40 points, convert doubters to fans

He’s a man on a mission. He sure knows how to get the crowd. The audience who were then cheering Rain or Shine ended up applauding and wishing he’ll be picked for Gilas.

4. JR Quiñahan set his conference high 24 points, off the bench *

5. Palestinian import Omar Krayem scored 24 points – his career high in the PBA

6. Mark Caguioa scored 16 points in a sizzling hot first quarter – his highest output in a quarter in the last few conferences

He got the crowd early into the game with his hot shooting.

7. 4 superstars were missed because of injuries, Greg Slaughter and Chris Ellis of Ginebra, Chris Tiu and Jeff Chan of Rain or Shine

Jeric Teng made the trip but caught injury in practice. Kelly Nabong also missed the trip for Globalport.

8. Globalport star rookie Stanley Pringle was in uniform but did not play

He is still not 100% well from a recurring injury, and coach Pido didn’t want to risk that.

8. Japeth Aguilar returned from injury and played his first game in the Governors Cup

He had an impressive showing of 15 points and 10 boards – most at the crucial stretch of the game.

9. First time that Jayjay Helterbrand did not play a single minute under coach Frankie Lim

Longtime Ginebra fans terribly missed the fast and the furious tandem live on the hard court.

10. First time in league history that official games were broadcasted live at 12:45am in Manila **

11. For the first time, Orlando Johnson scored below 30 points in the tournament

…but he still topscored for Ginebra. Thanks to the support of the locals.


12. Ginebra’s Mongolian import Sanchir Tungalag had one of his lowest playing minutes so far (under 4 minutes)

The most popular team’s Asian import, dubbed as “Kobe Bryant of Mongolia” continues to struggle for playing time. This is his lowest contribution to the game so far, not counting the one game he never sweat any single minute at all.

13. Beau Belga still receives the loudest boos. 

Who cares, he’s sporting the best socks anyway.

14. Rain or Shine got their first win in Governors Cup after a 0-2 start, at the expense of Globalport

…and lose against Ginebra the next day. Although playing 2 games inside 24 hours, coach Yeng don’t want to make that an excuse. It’s tough, but he admit this will just help the team better in terms of character.

15. Import Jarrid Famous played his first game back in the PBA for Globalport

The former Meralco import scored 26 points in his return.

16. Rain or Shine registered the highest score at the half as they led 66-49

The team’s final score 119 against 112 of Globalport is also Rain or Shine’s highest output in many years.

17. This is Commissioner Chito Salud’s farewell visit to Dubai as a commissioner

He will assume the president role, when new commissioner Chito Narvasa assumes office next season.

18. Rodney Brondial gained more followings after showcase of hustle plays on both sides of the court

He’s diving for loose balls and grabbing ’em rebounds. He must have learned a lot for Ginebra assistant coach Freddie Abuda, the Scavenger.

19. Sol Mercado, the latest addition to Ginebra is a delight to see, surprisingly

Traded for Joseph Yeo just few weeks before this trip, he continues to gain fans respect as a playmaker for Ginebra.

20. LA Tenorio had his best performance in the Governors Cup so far

He was the Best Player of the Game with 20 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists.

21. Ginebra is now 2-0 against Rain or Shine in their 2 Dubai match-ups.

The Gin Kings won by a hairline 89-88 in their first Dubai meeting.

There are other interesting numbers off the court that’s worth a look. Like, how many shoes they have bought, how many shawarmas they’ve eaten, how they liked the boodle fight as a welcome dinner, and what pasalubongs they got for their families and friends… but, let’s just stick to the games.

Photo by dBuzzketball

…and oh, how court side reporter and actress Erika Padilla turned heads in Dubai.

Boy Dubai with Erika

PBA you’ve made Dubai the happiest place for OFWs this week that you’re here.

Very well done Clique Events for staging an enormous show. This could also be the first time a PBA event in Dubai was spearheaded by a lady. Congrats!

Thank you PBA for keeping the league relevant to Filipinos in Dubai and overseas.

—
* verifying from the PBA, if it’s his conference high too
** verifying from the PBA

Gameface: PBA in Dubai begins; Interview with Coach Yeng Guiao

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Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and Rain or Shine Elastopainters will try to get back from slump while Globalport Batang Pier aims to sustain its amazing run this early in the PBA Governors Cup.

The only remaining team that is yet to win a game this tournament, Rain or Shine will play Globalport tonight and Barangay Ginebra after 24 hours. Interestingly, the Elastopainters will be facing squads reinforced by Asian imports.

Despite a 0-2 start, pressing the panic button is far from coach Yeng Guiao’s mind. The short break after a gruelling 7-game Commissioners Cup finals series might be taking its toll but the fiery yet soft-spoken mentor takes that as a challenge.

Here’s what coach Yeng has to say:

Mark Caguioa believes that having Coach Frankie Lim (CFL) at the helm is one of the best things that happened among all the changes in the team. He has repeatedly expressed that CFL is the best mentor to handle Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.

Caguioa, Jayjay Helterbrand and LA Tenorio agree that if the current roster and coaching staff remains intact through to the next conferences, they would be in the right direction and eventually give what the fans have long been clamoring – championship.

Assistant coach Olsen Racela though stressed out that the injuries to big men Japeth Aguilar and Greg Slaughter and to Chris Ellis could have somehow affected the team – especially they were practicing with Greg until the injury happened few days before the start of Governors Cup.

Globalport assistant coach Eric Gonzales attributed the early success of the team to the recent trades they have done and to Stanley Pringle who’s quickly getting back after a minor injury. Their import being one of the tallest is also a key factor.

Game time is 7pm Thursday and Friday at Al Shabab Al Arabi Club (behind Century Mall).

May 21 – Rain Or Shine vs. Globalport

May 22 – Rain Or Shine vs. Ginebra
Tickets will still be available at the venue, or call 04-5521614 for updates.

Silicon statues at Taste of Fame in Dubai

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We were invited to the unveiling of Taste of Fame’s new silicon statues inspired by The Godfather movie – Robert De Niro, Al Pacino and Marlon Brando.

The restaurant is famous for the statues, its red carpet feel and the Oscars ambiance. Life-size figures of Hollywood stars, musicians and sports celebs are all over the place.  Kids will also enjoy the place as there are figures of superheroes like Superman, Captain America and Incredible Hulk among others.

Here are other photos from the night:

10 amazing aerial and height defying stunts in Dubai

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Dubai is a city of superlatives – best, tallest, largest and everything with -est or m-o-s-t. Recently the emirate is also home to the most extreme and most daring aerial stunts and height conquests of select brave humanity.  Here are 10 of the most intense breath-taking feats by men who don’t know the word ‘fear’:

1. Jetman soars Dubai sky

May 2015 – We only hear “jet packs activated” in movies. But Yves Rossy and his protege, parachuter Vince Reffet of Jetman Dubai team, made this to reality as the duo performed a variety of tricks while flying over the desert and into the skyscrapers of Dubai, including the world’s tallest Burj Khalifa.

2. Dream jump from the tallest residential building

April 2015 – The event saw the use of numerous zip lines utilising over 10 kilometres of rope as well as the construction of an eight metre long jump platform suspended 400 meters high. More than 600 dream and base jumps took place over the course of the two weeks.

3. Burj Khalifa Pinnacle BAse Jump

April 2014 – Two French daredevils broke a Guinness World Record for the highest Base jump after jumping from the pinnacle of the Burj Khalifa and spiraling down the world’s tallest man-made structure.  Professional base jumpers Vince Reffet and Fred Fugen broke the record after performing two base jumps from the top of the 828-metre Burj Khalifa.

4. Brietling Wing Walkers

December 2014 – The UK based Breitling Wing Walkers flew over the skies of the Dubai Marina, JBR and the Palm in their UAE debut exhibition as part of the Skydive Dubai XCAT World Powerboating Series.  The flying team use two Breitling-liveried 1930s Boeing Stearman bi-planes to execute thrilling aerial stunts that include acrobatic girls battling high speed wind and g-forces to ride on top of the wings of the plane.

5. Paramotoring – Parabatix Sky Racers Dubai

Looking like flying armchairs, paramotors are in fact engine-powered paragliders. These remarkably simple craft are a cross between a parachute and a microlight. The latest equipment developments enable pilots to fly even faster & with more manoeuvrability than before. – source

6. Skydive Dubai

Of all the extremes, this has been one common bucket list item for many thrill-seekers, A-list celebs included. Skydive Dubai is one of the world’s most preferred premier skydiving location, mainly because of the breathtaking scenery of the luxurious Palm Jumeirah and the skyline of Dubai Marina while descending at 210 km/hr.

7. Crazy Russians Stunts

These youngsters who call themselves “Crazy Russians” produce terrifying videos as they climb high rise buildings without any protective gears, rappel and no insurance at all. And yes, they did it in Dubai as well.

8. French Spiderman Climbs Burj Khalifa

March 2011 – French climbing legend Alain Robert, popularly known as the French spiderman, took more than 6 hours to reach the summit of Burj Khalifa.  He started at 6:10pm and reached the top by 12:30am.

9. French Spiderman Climbs the Twisted Cayan Tower

April 2015 – Alain Robert returned to Dubai to climb the 75-storey Cayan Tower in Dubai Marina – the worlds tallest twisted tower.

He started ascent at 8.25pm, without the protection of a safety harness and with only a small pouch for chalk to dry his hands, the 52-year-old reach the top of the building at about 9.30pm.

10. Balloon Desert Jump

It may not be as extreme as the others, for for the sake of stunning aerial exhibitions, I’m closing it with the Balloon Jump. This is pretty much similar to Skydiving but skydivers are jumping from a hot air balloon – which just adds thrill to it.

So would you dare? If you would, check out the following as they could definitely assist you if you want to throw yourself down from the sky in the most fun and adventurous way:
– Skydive Dubai
– Balloon Adventures
– XDubai

Did I miss any? Please feel free to write them on the comments below.

Dubai Metro becomes art gallery

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I was sitting calmly on my desk when a striking new-look Dubai Metro coach passed by. Too fast to snap a photo. I waited for the next coach but it was the normal carriage. There are only about 3 – 5 decorated coaches, that’s why.

This city is truly embracing art – all forms of it. Dubai is taking art as it soars to higher levels. Very lovely that the metro trains were the latest canvas used.  They could have wrapped it with ads like what other modern cities do, but they preferred to decorate it. Very well done Dubai.

It was reported that RTA has plans to transform 6 metro stations into art museums. Wow! I can’t wait to take the metro when it happens.

“Each stop will have a different theme, with the BurJuman station playing host to music and art, while the Emirates Towers will feature Islamic decor and manuscripts.” – Gulfnews

Who would have thought that Dubai metro is done?

Amidst the busy city, art is really becoming closer to people with these kind of initiatives. Beyond dazzling, the sight of colorful carriages inspires the artist in me to strive to be more creative in everything I do.

Photos credit: Gulfnews

How to pack your Balikbayan Box like a boss

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One that differentiates Filipino expats from other nationalities is our inseparable attachment to our love ones, regardless how many thousand miles away we are from them.  Sending balikbayan (cargo) boxes to the Philippines is one of ways to send our hearts to them.

Shoes, apparel, perfumes, gadgets, and even grocery items like cooking oil, lotion and detergents mix themselves into the golden gift box.

Our generous hearts will always make this practice part of every OFW’s life.

Unfortunately, there are some shipment companies that are careless in handling and delivering our beloved cargo boxes.

In order to avoid damages, we also need to make sure that we pack all the items properly in the box. Here are some tips on how the goodies will reach our families in their best condition:

1. Select the right size of box for the size and quantity of your ‘padala’.  Avoid bulging your packages.
2. Use bubble wraps to secure glass, ceramics and other fragile items, and place them in the middle of the box.
3. Do not remove powder and liquid from their own containers. Double seal them with heavy duty adhesive tape and a resealable plastic.
4. Add cardboard or cloth padding to sharp items like pens, knives and other blades.
5. Fill the small gaps of your box with crumpled paper or foams so the items won’t be shaking up inside.

Be sure to make a checklist of all the items before you seal the box.

To avoid conflicts in receiving the package, be sure to write the complete name of both the sender and recipient. Double check the address, especially the contact number.

Watch the Balikbayan Box 101 video by LBC above for more comprehensive information on packaging securely and safely – and what needs to go, and prohibited to go in the box.

LBC is where I can comfortably put my trust on. Its commitment to deliver packages in good condition and on agreed time has eventually cemented its reputation as one of the best courier services from UAE to anywhere in the Philippines.

And good news to my neighbors in Sharjah, they will be opening a new branch on May 16 in Yarmook (at the back of Gold Centre), their 3rd branch in UAE.  This will better serve Filipinos from the Northern Emirates as well.

Max’s Restaurant Chicky Boy brings a cart full of heavenly breakfast

I learned about it in a very fashionable way.  One Friday morning, while we’re playing basketball at the park, they came by surprise to announce the opening of the branch. They also did a little fun game and gave away sport gears and basketballs from their partner Mayad Sports, and a sumptuous breakfast from everybody’s favorite, and also their partner, Max’s Restaurant Sharjah.

The video below shows the delight and cheers of the Filipinos on the surprise of LBC:

Two teams get to select which box to open – both contain gifts from Mayad Sports

They also visited Giant and Sunrise City supermarkets to announce the opening of Sharjah branch, and gave 2 lucky shoppers free ‘hakot’ groceries.

I had a chat with the LBC guys during their visit. I can’t help but asked them about the not-so-secret issues regarding damages and pilferage in shipments in general.

They strongly suggest that customers must be sure that their packages are properly documented with a declared checklist and photos, and must direct their concerns to the cargo company upon receipt of the delivery, than posting photos on Facebook.

In line with the opening of Sharjah branch, they are running a Selfie competition on Facebook. More details on the poster below:

LBC has been in the UAE since 2008. They also service Filipino expats in KSA, Qatar, Kuwait, & Bahrain. For more information visit their website at www.lbcexpress.com or Like their Facebook Page.

– Sponsored post

Photos: Miracoco Luminarium in Dubai

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One of the major attractions at the Al Ghurair StreetCon is the Miracoco Luminarium by Architects of Air.  Guests have to remove their shoes and slippers to enter. It looks like a bouncy castle but it’s really more than that.

Pointed shiny domes at the outside and colorful luminous maze inside. It’s a monumental beauty of light and color.

Miracoco was built in 2011 to represent a new step in the evolution of luminarium design.

Its distinctive element is in the rendering of the domes. The dodecahedral domes follow a geometry made more precise by the increased use of reinforced restraints to define the structure.  The working of the illuminated seams enhances the sense of structure. – Architects of Air

Learn more about the Miracoco here.

More photos inside and outside the luminarium:

Celebration of artistry at Al Ghurair StreetCon

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We visited StreetCon on its last day. It was a frenzy atmosphere out there.

The temporarily closed inner streets of Al Ghurair Centre were energized with dazzling display of urban art and performances. It was a festive celebration of artistic talent in this part of the world.

Dozens of local and international graffiti artists burst out the walls with passionate creativity. There were container mash up rooms, photo galleries, workshops, interactive drawing stations, live musicians and beat box performers, bikes and skate ramp shows as well.

Lots of tribute to The People’s Champ Manny Pacquiao as well – from canvas art, portraits and t-shirt prints.

The place was so lively and lovely. The artists definitely brought more life through a cultural and colorful explosion of traditional and modern art.

Indeed, Al Ghurair Centre is quickly becoming a pinnacle zone for street art in Dubai.

Let the other photos I’ve taken continue the story. Feast your eyes:

STRAY – a photo series by Filipino artist and photographer Angelo Aguilor inspired by his yearning to own a pet cat, however, his bed-space accommodation wouldn’t allow it.

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