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Travel

Luxury eco-resort focuses on going green under the sea

Posted on April 21, 2025

Four Seasons Mauritius at Anahita is ensuring a sustainable future with the region’s first seagrass meadow nursery. The first resort in the Indian Ocean to develop such a project, the nursery is located in a one-meter-deep (40 inch) saltwater body near the dining facilities, and is currently hosting more than 200 herbivore and omnivore fish.

Through photosynthesis, seagrasses remove carbon dioxide from the water and use the carbon to build their leaves and roots. Plant material that collects on the low-oxygen sediment on the ocean floor decomposes much slower than on land. Seagrass provides food and shelter for many organisms, and are a nursery ground for many prawn and fish species. All of this increases tourism (through activities like bird watching and scuba diving), the cleaning of coastal waters and sediment stabilisation.

This initiative is part of the Blue Carbon Ecosystems Project: Restoration of Blue Carbon Ecosystems, which is currently led by the Odysseo Foundation, a local trust developing marine conservation projects in Mauritius.

Rick-Ernest Bonnier, the Resort Ocean Environment Manager, explains: “The Seagrass Nursery is a pilot project that aims to restore the seagrass meadows in the marine area around the resort. Both transplants and seeds will be collected from the wild and used to create a seagrass nursery in the resort’s Barachois. Seeds will be germinated in an Odysseo lab and the developed seedlings will then be transplanted to the resort’s Barachois until maturity.”

“These ecosystems provide essential services for humanity as they are highly efficient carbon sinks, crucial in the fight against global warming; they serve as important fish nurseries, whose loss would threaten many species that are vital food sources for marine life and island nations, such as Mauritius.” Bernardo Nascimento, Odysseo Foundation Manager, Curator and Head of Education.

The Seagrass Nursery project is one of many ways that Four Seasons guests can engage with the local environment, alongside resort nature walks and their seahorse snorkel.

travel

Dive into conservation at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

Posted on February 5, 2025

If you prefer (like me) to keep active when on holiday, rather than a wellness retreat at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, you can now immerse yourselves in a different kind of hands-on marine experience, one that is truly aimed at eco-minded adventurers.

For a change of mindset, why not enjoy the beauty of the Maldives and its aqua blue waters with a side of conservation?

Despite producing a fraction of global emissions, the Maldives is adversely affected by the climate crisis. This archipelago is home to some of the most beautiful coral reef’s in the world, but due to over exploitation – fishing, tourism, pollution, coastal development and climate change – these reefs are degrading and losing their capacity to support the people who depend on them. Temperatures are increasing, which has caused issues like ocean acidification and loss of biodiversity throughout.

If you’ve ever dreamed of being a marine biologist (I know I have), this offering allows guests to actively engage in the protection of marine life, providing a unique and educational bio-adventure, focusing on the often overlooked natural ecosystem in this popular destination.

Dive into conservation snorkeling, guided by the resident marine biologist, Mohamed Shah, where you will collect essential data on coral health and fish populations using underwater fish guides, coral health charts, writing slates, and will learn to identify their native species.

Guests will aim to assess coral reef conditions, which is important because they represent the strategic natural offshore sea-defences, and contribute to protecting the local marine ecosystem. Findings will be discussed with their marine expert Shah, offering deeper insights into marine life at the Iru Fushi lagoon and house reef.

fashion

Scarlett Poppies artisanal resort wear

Posted on January 20, 2025

From Sweden to the Middle East, Scarlett Poppies elegant resort wear offers a timeless array of beautiful dresses, kaftans and co-ords, heavenly adorned with artisanal detailing. The collections are designed by a mix of designers from different corners of the world via sustainable production methods.

Each collection will always showcase unique embroidery techniques and other handmade elements, ensuring that jobs are created in the garment industry, rather than removed by modern machines replacing skilled artisans. Using and promoting this range of unique embroidery traditions and skillsets, keeps them alive for the future.

Scarlett Poppies collections range from dresses, tops, tunics, jumpsuits to true beach cover-ups such as kimonos and kaftan dresses etc. “Comfort and easy breezy materials are key.” With fabrics originating from nature such as; cotton, linen, silk and viscose – the latter generated from cellulosic pulp.

Using up stock fabrics from one collection to another helps to minimise waste. Wherever possible they choose organic fabric options rather than conventional, as well as fabrics that are locally available and produced in the country where the collection is manufactured, to avoid increased carbon footprints within the supply chain.

travel

Why book an Ayurvedic 3-day detox in the Maldives this year

Posted on January 16, 2025

Looking to improve your sleep, relationships and mood this year? Who wouldn’t want to start 2025 with an Ayurvedic 3-day detox. Especially when it’s somewhere as relaxing as the Maldives.

Designed to align with current demands for a more holistic retreat, this exclusive program is curated with natural botanicals brand TheraNaka. A personalizable real blend of traditional healing practices and modern-day wellness insights, that focuses on Ayurvedic dosha identification, balanced nutrition, mindful movement.

What can you expect?

Day 1: Personalised wellness

A 45-minute private consultation to identify your unique dosha—the body’s elemental energies—and a nutrition consultation tailored to your individual needs.

Day 2: A day of movement and nourishment

A rejuvenating yoga session followed by indulge in a dosha-balancing breakfast and refreshing detox juice created specifically for your dosha. The day culminates in a 90-minute treatment crafted to harmonise your body and senses.

Day 3: Empowerment and transformation

Dive deeper into your detox journey by taking part in a hands-on DIY class led by chef, where you will learn to create your own nutrient-rich, dosha-aligned meals. Then onto a two-hour chakra balancing treatment to realign your energy centres and leave you feeling grounded and restored.

Milaidhoo Maldives, nestled in the heart of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, is a sanctuary committed to preserving the natural wonders that make the Maldives a coveted destination. Perfect for nature lovers as their own coral reef, which encircles the island, is a protected area and noted as an outstanding snorkelling and diving site.

Employing sustainable practices that include; Coral planting and cleaning, where guests, along with the resident marine biologist collaborate, to nurture loose coral fragments and restore damaged areas. Responsible water management by repurposing and using treated water for irrigation, the resort champions sustainable landscaping practices, reducing freshwater consumption and caring for its surroundings. Local product sourcing to keep a lid on carbon footprints, and farm t0 table cooking using organic farming techniques, Milaidhoo produces fresh greens on their own island for guest and staff consumption.

fashion

On my radar: Lumena Maison silks

Posted on January 13, 2025

One homegrown luxury brand I’ve fallen in love with is Lumena Maison. A beautifully elegant collection that features local artists and dedicates profit to local missions.

UAE based, it features limited quantities of the highest grade of silks, which is a renewable resource, can biodegrade, and uses less water, chemicals, and energy than many other fibers. Aiming to promote the rich heritage of the Arabian Gulf region to the rest of the world, this slow fashion brand only employs the talents of local GCC artists.

From kaftans to scarves, twilly’s, two-piece co-ords and dresses featuring prints like ‘Kite Beach’ below, they make for the perfect Dubai mementos and gifts.

Lumena Maison honors the traditional ways of silk production and supports the silk scarf-making artisans with fair pay. Manufacturing is often carbon footprint heavy but they use digital printing on their fabrics to ensure a more eco-friendly production line, and less waste of surplus inks and water.

Furthering their positive impact, Lumena Maison has partnered with the Al Jalila Foundation, committing 10% of all sales through the website to support cancer treatment for women and children.

Find them offline at Halm Collective, beach road.

Hotspot Recommended

Spend Christmas and New Years by the beach!

Posted on December 23, 2024

🎄 Christmas 🎄

Inside Burj Al Arab:

Family Tour + Santa Grotto at Royal Suite

The Family Festive Package offers an unrivalled opportunity to explore the elegance and grandeur of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah while immersing guests in festive cheer. This exclusive offering includes:

A 60 to 90-minute guided tour, exploring the iconic hotel’s lavish interiors, spectacular Atrium, and panoramic views from the 25th-floor Observation Lounge.
Festive beverages to suit all ages—adults can enjoy an optional alcoholic twist, while children can sip on delightful non-alcoholic creations.
A magical meet-and-greet with Santa Claus in his exclusive Royal Suite Grotto, including a photo album with six professional snapshots to treasure.
Two bespoke gifts from Santa for the little ones, adding a personalized touch to the festivities.

Price: AED 2,000 for a family of four (2 adults + 2 children aged 4–12).

Add-ons: Additional adults at AED 369 per person, and children at AED 289 per person.

Chouchou:

Christmas Eve Celebration

Kick off the celebrations on December 24, with Christmas cocktails at the bar, where your first seasonal cocktail is on the house
The evening features entertainment by a DJ and a menu priced à la carte

Noël en Jazz

Celebrate Christmas Day, December 25, from 12pm to 4pm, with CHOUCHOU’s luxurious 6-course family-style menu
Enjoy refined French gastronomy and elegant holiday vibes, starting at AED 550 per person, with a live jazz band setting the mood

Champagne Rêve

An evening of free-flowing champagne and expertly crafted small plates, from 8pm to 10pm on December 26
A live DJ will keep the energy high, with prices starting at AED 550 per person

Kaimana Beach:

Christmas Brunch

Celebrate Christmas Day, December 25, from 1pm to 4pm with a family-friendly beachside brunch featuring live entertainment and festive cheer
Stay on from 4pm to 6pm for a festive sundowner with 3 drinks for AED 100

💫 New Year’s Eve 💫

Chouchou | Midnight in Paris

Time: From 7:30 PM
What to expect: Fine dining, live DJ, and fireworks.
Price: AED 900 per person

Almayass by the Sea | Arabian Night

Time: From 9:00 PM
What to expect: Authentic Lebanese-Armenian feast, live music by Mohammad Kabbani, and a DJ.
Price: AED 500 (Soft), AED 700 (House), AED 800 (Premium)

Kaimana Beach

Time: From 8:00 PM
What to expect: Live entertainment, DJs, fireworks, and Burj Khalifa views.
Pricing: Indoor Lounge: AED 1200 (includes AED 900 beverage credit) | Beach Dining: AED 2000 (includes AED 1400 beverage credit)

Gigi Rigolatto | Ring in the New Year in Style

Time: From 8:00 PM
What to expect: Sharing set menu, live DJ, and Dom Pérignon welcome drink.
Price: AED 3500 per person

Ninive Beach

Time: From 8:00 PM
What to expect: Rooftop and ground floor celebrations with DJs and fireworks.
Price: AED 1700 (Rooftop), AED 1200 (Ground Floor)

African Queen

Time: From 7:30 PM
What to expect: Elegant dining, live shows, DJ, and sea-view fireworks.
Pricing: Indoor: AED 1000 | Pergola: AED 2200 | Poolside: AED 2700 (min spend)

Gitano | Supernature NYE

Time: From 7:30 PM
What to expect: Jungle-inspired dinner, dancing, and DJ sets with panoramic firework views.
Pricing: Indoors: AED 1750 | Terrace (J1 Firework View): AED 2250 | Terrace (Burj + J1 View): AED 3000

Lúnico

Time: From 7:00 PM
What to expect: 4-course Spanish sharing menu, live music, DJ, and 180° firework views.
Price: AED 790 (dining) | AED 300 (bar seating)

La Baia by the Beach

Time: From 7:00 PM (early) | From 9:30 PM (premium seating)
What to expect: Live DJs, roaming bands, and fireworks.
Pricing: Indoor: AED 500–800 | Outdoor: AED 650–1000

Sustainable

Unity for Change – أفق initiative making shopping more sustainable

Posted on December 23, 2024

There has been a growing awareness and concern about the environmental impact of our consumer habits and as a result, shopping malls around the world are taking steps to become more sustainable and eco-friendly. The aim is to also promote a culture of sustainability among shoppers. Reliable ways to manage waste and recycling options are essential for every place where large groups of people meet and spend time.

The Unity for Change – أفق initiative has unveiled a groundbreaking sustainability framework aimed at transforming retail and mall operations across the UAE. Spearheaded by Chalhoub Group, LVMH, Emaar Malls Management (L.L.C.), Majid Al Futtaim, and Aldar Properties, this alliance marks a step toward measurable environmental impact reduction. This initiative now features defined goals across three core pillars: energy efficiency via reducing carbon emissions, eco-friendly store design, and waste management.

This includes working towards achieving a minimum of 5% annual energy savings or carbon emissions reduction for all shopping malls starting 2024. Launching energy-efficient lighting systems (50% efficacy), and achieve zero waste to landfill by 2030 for LVMH and Chalhoub Group.

The findings and finalized objectives of this initiative were officially presented during the LVMH “LIFE 360 in Stores Awards” ceremony. This event, gathering experts, partners, employees, and industry leaders, was established in 2016 by LVMH, and celebrates innovative initiatives that enhance the environmental performance of the LVMH’s Maisons’ stores, based on an external audit conducted by an independent agency. Launched during COP28 in 2023, it is the first partnership of its kind in the Middle East.

Eco Friendly travel

Kurulu Bay is a unique private sanctuary in Sri Lanka

Posted on November 11, 2024

Kurulu Bay is a private sanctuary built alongside Koggala Lake in the South of Sri Lanka

Kurulu Bay (Sinhalese for “bird island”) is a private sanctuary built alongside Koggala Lake, one of the island’s largest expanses of water, just slightly in-land, located in the South of Sri Lanka. The lush surroundings of this tropical retreat are filled with loud and lively creatures that hoot and call, and you would forgive yourself for thinking you’d arrived in Sri Lanka’s jungle rather than a water-front resort. Yet the expanse of the calm lake, and the incredible sunsets she offers, ensure Kurulu Bay is as serene and tranquil a destination as you had hoped for.

For my baby moon, switching off was of paramount importance for me. Removing the temptation of busy street markets and the surfing tourists we normally encounter in Sri Lanka, Kurulu Bay made it easy for us to really relax. With only 14 suites and cottages, it felt nicely quiet. Commissioned to Shanghai based, award-winning architects A00, each suite allows for a sense of intimacy with nature.

We enjoyed private yoga sessions set on the terrace of the private residence, with a backdrop of the lake, and even more private spa treatments, with only 1 room for each of us available. The peace and quiet never felt empty, never felt boring. With two swimming pools, and a kitchen that boasts the most delicious sea-to-table homegrown recipes, it’s easy to see why Kurulu Bay’s whole resort is mostly booked out for private health and wellness retreats, with guests visiting from across the world. A long-weekend here (without our children) was honestly the perfect way to reconnect with each other, nature and ourselves.

Fitness travel

Weekends well spent with Privilee

Posted on March 10, 2020

I have tried and tested many of the amazing discount books, club apps and fitness memberships here in the UAE, but from food to fitness and festivities, there’s none that really wrap all of the city’s offerings into one, quite like Privilee does.

Privilee is our local club card that gives back without the points system. Whether you’re just over here on holiday, a true blue expat or you’ve expanded your brood recently and aren’t sure where’s kid friendly, Privilee has a four different membership plans, running between 1, 4 and 12 months, for the ultimate flexibility. Offering a card free digital booking system, making the whole concept more sustainable too, your whole weekend is literally a click away.

Partnering with a wide array of partners across the city and the capital too, boredom just isn’t an option. It’s not just the picturesque white sands of Dubai’s infamous luxury hotels that are on offer either, it’s that gym you’ve always wanted to try but didn’t want to commit to, or the busy hotspots around the city that now take 25% off your bill with pleasure.

If you’ve ever sat at home on a Friday morning, wondering what to do with your weekend, a daycay at the beach followed by a workout in the sun and sundowners on the Palm doesn’t sound too bad, especially when you know you can just walk in…

travel

Four Seasons at Anahita, Mauritius

Posted on July 3, 2018

It’s always been on my list, as most tropical islands are, but Mauritius always seemed just a little too far away for a weekend escape. I was very wrong… Only a 6 hour flight from Dubai, heading towards South Africa in an A380, Mauritius is as easy to access as Europe. Factor in the travel time it takes you to reach most hotels from the airport in other destinations like Sri Lanka and Thailand, you’re looking at a shorter total travel time with the Four Seasons at Anahita.

Welcomed to the island just as the sun was starting to set, a permanent coastal breeze breathes life into any tired soul. The coastal road to the resort is winding yet wonderful, with views of both mountains and sugar cane fields as far as the eye can see. There’s no beaches as such, but surrounding the island is the reef with a distant surf constantly cresting.

The Four Seasons at Anahita is as luxurious as one would imagine of the brand, but it’s the deep blue extended oceanscape that seems to start almost as immediately as you set foot inside the reception. Bungalows rather than rooms await your arrival, boasting plunge pools and ever so greatly received, motorised mosquito nets over the doors, so that your ocean experience continues well past the sun going down. I must admit, it’s been a long while since I fell asleep to the sound of waves gently lapping at the shoreline.

Featuring 3 very distinct and different restaurants catering to your cultural and dietary needs, from Mauritian flavours and seafood BBQ’s, to an exquisite Italian that boasts the best tiramisu on the island, as well as a customary buffet for travellers who can’t decide which flavour suits them best. The Four Seasons at Anahita has a wealth of experience at persuading its guests to fully relax and enjoy their break.

With plenty to keep you occupied too, there’s a whole host of activities in the resort that will allow you to fully take advantage of your R&R. A tennis court, luxury gym and length pool, outdoor boxing set up, bikes as well as a wealth of water sports. There’s no excuse for boredom, but then again, we don’t ever really switch off do we? If anywhere is going to help convince you, this resort is.

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