Cityscape Egypt 2018

28 -31 March 2018

Egypt International Exhibition Center (EIEC)

The right home is waiting for you at Cityscape Egypt. The country’s leading international property exhibition held from 28-31March 2018, provides a showcase of more than 100,000 developments for comparison under one roof. Catering to the needs of everyone from the general home buyer to the private or institutional investor, a visit to Cityscape Egypt will dramatically increase your chances of getting the property and deal you are looking for. Make sure you register now to get FREE entry, saving EGP 50 on your entrance fee.

MOMENTUM BUILDS BEHIND EGYPTIAN DEVELOPERS IN 2018

Egypt’s prominent developers are expected to offer a wave of attractive flexible plans at the 7th edition of Cityscape Egypt

 

25 February, 2018, Cairo, Egypt: Opportunities to invest in Egypt’s real estate market will take centre stage at next month’s 7th edition of Cityscape Egypt, especially as momentum builds behind new and existing projects from Egypt’s major developers.

For real estate developers and investors looking at Egypt this year, 2018 signals a return to a more stable market. According to Oxford Business Group, the country’s improved performance in key sectors, tighter fiscal management and increased capital inflows drove a much-needed economic rebound last year, with growth expected to accelerate further this year. The country also got the stamp of approval from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who declared earlier this year that Egypt’s economic outlook is favourable, following the completion of its second review of the country’s reform programme.

“At this year’s 7th edition of Cityscape Egypt, we expect to see developers being more competitive as they respond with a wave of new and flexible, attractive plans following renewed interest in the market from both investors and homebuyers and a positive economic outlook,” said Chris Speller, Exhibition Director at Cityscape Egypt.

“While 2017 was a challenging year for the country, last year’s Cityscape Egypt attracted a record-breaking number of visitors in what was the largest event in the show’s history. With a 25% increase in visitor numbers compared to 2016. In addition, Cityscape Egypt grew close to 10% selling out all halls. The massive uptake in visitor numbers revealed the appetite for residential real estate from Egyptians, even in the most challenging of times. We expect the same vigour from developers and visitors this year especially as stability returns,” added Speller.

Taking place at its new venue, the Egypt International Exhibition Centre (EIEC) in Mehwar Almosheer Tantawy in New Cairo from the 28th until the 31st March, Cityscape Egypt 2018 includes 20,000sqm of exhibition space and over 70 exhibitors, with the figure likely to climb as the show approaches.

Among the strategies which will be used to attract sales in an increasingly competitive market this year, according to a recent research report by JLL, are extended payment plans and improved community facilities as developers seek to offer more value for money. Community creation has also become a means of creating a competitive edge to target those consumers seeking to maintain a dynamic lifestyle. It’s the reason why many developers will showcase projects that emphasise the ‘live, shop, play’ concept. “It is basically the ability to provide all their (homebuyers) needs at a reasonable and affordable price – this is key especially after the devaluation,” says the property consultant.

This year’s platinum sponsor, PROJECTS, will be showcasing its Blues Tiffany development, in Ras El-Hekma on Egypt’s North Coast. The project emphasises the ‘live, shop, play’ concept and is spread over 250 acres.  The developer will be offering a 10% discount and will be revealing flexible payment structures at the show.

Optimistic about the real estate industry in the country, Eng Hossam Bahaa, CEO of PROJECTS, said the property sector is the driving force of the economy and is expected to: “raise the Egyptian GDP in the upcoming years, decrease the unemployment and attract foreign investment resulting in the decrease of inflation.”

Also, exhibiting this year is Porto Vacation Club who will showcase a range of its seaside accommodation which will be offered with flexible payments plans. “We believe the current real estate market is buoyant and optimistic, which is why we are always looking to create new opportunities for our members to become part of the real estate industry,” says the exhibitor on its participation at this year’s Cityscape Egypt.

New to this year’s show are two dedicated days of the Cityscape Egypt Conference, taking place at the Four Seasons Nile Plaza on the 12th and 13th March – two weeks before the exhibition kicks off. The Conference includes a stellar line-up of speakers and topics based on market research and the guidance of the Advisory Board.

Also, returning to the Four Seasons Nile Plaza on the 13th is the Cityscape Awards for Real Estate in Egypt, which celebrates excellence in real estate development, architecture and forward-thinking leaders. The shortlist has been revealed and this year will see some of Egypt’s notable developers and architects vie for the coveted award in each of the eight categories.

Contending for the Commercial Project Award are the projects: Palm Central, Zayed Edge, The Lane, Alburouj Smart Village East and Alex Bank HQ.

While Forty West, Hyde Park New Cairo, Park Views, Project 1, and Stone Park have all been shortlisted for the Residential – Low to Medium Project Award – Built. Going head-to-head for the Retail Project Award are Rivette, Sidewalk, The Alma, and The Yard Mall.

Visitors to the exhibition will also have the opportunity to attend the brand-new Cityscape Egypt Talks. These free-to-attend, educational sessions held on the show floor, will feature a range of experts who will discuss and provide attendees with the necessary information on investing in properties, regional market trends, investment hotspots, financing, and banking solutions.

Exhibitors at this year’s Cityscape Egypt include: Aristo Developers, Ardic for Real Estate Development, Edge Architects, Madaar Development, Misr Italia Properties, Mousa Coast Development, Tatweer Misr, SODIC, and many more.

For more information on Cityscape Egypt visit www.cityscapeegypt.com

Cityscape Egypt 2018About Cityscape:

Cityscape Egypt is owned by Informa Exhibitions. Informa Exhibitions delivers over 220 trade and consumer exhibitions annually across the globe. Cityscape first took place in 2002 in Dubai and since then, it has grown to be the largest real estate event brand globally, with events taking place across the GCC, Middle East, Asia and Turkey. Since its launch, Cityscape has welcomed over 500,000 real estate professionals and investors from over 160 countries.

 Cityscape Conference draws roadmap for the future of real estate

Egypt’s government officials and top experts revealed the future of real estate in the country at the opening of 7th edition of Cityscape Egypt Conference

12 March, 2018, Cairo, Egypt: The Cityscape Egypt Conference got off to a positive start today as experts and government authorities offered updates on major government projects, revealed ongoing progress in the real estate sector, and highlighted opportunities and challenges in the industry.

The Conference, which is currently taking place at the Four Seasons Nile Plaza, is a prelude to the exhibition and calls attention to Egypt’s ongoing efforts to realise its goals and address the sector’s most pressing needs.

Khaled Abbas, Assistant Minister of Housing for Technical Affairs, highlighted in his keynote speech that development is no longer limited to Greater Cairo, but instead it has moved to the governorates of Al-Alamain Al-Jadida, Al-Mansoura Al-Jadida, West Qena and West Assiut. Development outside Cairo is a major tenet of the government’s Urban Development Plan 2052, which looks to increase the area from 7 to 12%.

“To achieve this ambitious development plan, there needs to be partnerships with the private sector so we can achieve the development rates, which were successfully carried out by the government in the first phase of the partnership projects, and which were developed into MOUs. We are currently, evaluating the second phase of financial PPP offers and the third phase of the partnership projects will be decided by the end of this month or at the beginning of next month,” he said.

He pointed out that as the real estate sector is a main driver of the economy, the Ministry is currently working on auctioning land for investment, which will enable developers to choose from an array of opportunities.

Under the theme: Re-inventing a real estate destination; strategy, valuation and branding, this year’s two-day Conference – which concludes tomorrow – kicked off by reviewing its performance over the last year.

Fathallah Fawzy, Co-Founder, MENA Group, and Chairman at this year’s Conference maintains that despite the challenges in the market last year, there was still a demand for real estate.

“The stability in the market and the effects of the economic decisions over the last year will result in an increase in the volume of real estate investment, new projects, demand from consumers, and expected price increases in 2018,” he explained.

Ian Albert, Regional Director at real estate consultancy, Colliers, analysed the sector over the past year and provided an overview to a packed conference room.

For Albert, population growth and increased investment in infrastructure, and investments to hedge against inflation and currency devaluation are boosting property investment in Greater Cairo’s real estate market. “By end of 2018, the residential market is expected to be undersupplied by 320,000 units, this gap is expected to increase to 580,000 units by 2022. Translating into required units of approximately 52,000 per annum, while supply is expected to grow by 20,000 units per annum,” he said.

Looking at the demand from Egyptians, Albert said: “The current demand in the Egyptian real estate market is for lifestyle products. Cairenes are looking for secure neighbourhoods complete with community retail facilities, as well as education and healthcare facilities that complement the residential component. Affordability is also of primary concern as consumers are becoming more price sensitive and competition is becoming intense.”

A bright star in Egypt’s real estate sector is the office segment. According to Albert over the past five years, 90th Street in New Cairo has been rapidly establishing itself as a major commercial hub or strip in the city. “New Cairo has become the focal point for various office developments and business parks. The office market in Greater Cairo has been undersupplied over the past decade. While there was a market gap of 3 million sqm NLA in 2017, this gap is expected to exceed 4 million NLA sqm by 2022,” he said.

Speaking about buyer profiles and current trends amongst consumers in the market, Amad Al Msoadi, CEO of Aqarmap.com revealed how location, unit sizes, and prices, are still primary drivers for homeowners and investors.

One of the most anticipated panels: Vision 2030: Taking on the challenges and achieving the vision saw Tamer Waguih, Assistant Head of Central Unit, Ministry of Finance; Ahmed Al Mufti, General Manager, Commercial Affairs, East Port Said Development Company; Amgad Hassanein, COO, Cairo Capital Group; and Dr. Assem El Gazzar, Chairman, General Organisation for Physical Planning, discuss and debate how to achieve the country’s goals and how to find solutions to ongoing hurdles.

The Conference also included breakout roundtable discussions on mortgage finance, and industrial development.

Tomorrow’s Conference will tackle hospitality in a session titled: The role of international hospitality brands in creating a destination, and includes a session on Foreign investment sentiment: Measuring trends of foreign investment in Egyptian property by Dina Gobran, General Manager, OLX Egypt and Khaled Shahin, Regional Director of Revenues.

Tomorrow’s final panel discussion takes on: The importance of regulating real estate valuation activity to attract international investors, looking at understanding the role of real estate valuation in the national economy and methodology of supervising real estate appraisal activities.

This year’s Conference was sponsored by Colliers, Kohler, CS Global, Contact Mortgage Finance, Altus Group, and property portal sponsor OLX.

The highly-anticipated Cityscape Egypt exhibition then takes place on the 28th – 31st March at its new venue, the Egypt International Exhibition Centre (EIEC) in in Mehwar Almosheer Tantawy in New Cairo. The show, sponsored by PROJECTS, kicks off with over 70 exhibitors from Egypt who will showcase projects from across the real estate spectrum, both from Egypt and around the world.

For more information on Cityscape Egypt visit www.cityscapeegypt.com

About Cityscape Egypt:

Cityscape Egypt is owned by Informa Exhibitions. Informa Exhibitions delivers over 220 trade and consumer exhibitions annually across the globe. Cityscape first took place in 2002 in Dubai and since then, it has grown to be the largest real estate event brand globally, with events taking place across the GCC, Middle East, Asia and Turkey. Since its launch, Cityscape has welcomed over 500,000 real estate professionals and investors from over 160 countries.

10 Romantic Movies for Valentine’s Day

Romantic Movies

Staying in tonight? Whether you’re single or partnered up, enjoy any of these films for a cosy romantic night in! Don’t forget the snacks and chocolates!

Casablanca (1942)

This timeless classic starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman tells the tale of Rick Blaine, a nightclub owner in Casablanca,  who discovers his old flame Ilsa is in town with her husband. With her husband on the run from the Germans, Ilsa knows Rick can help them get out of the country. But will her heart stay in Casablanca with Rick, or will she choose her husband?

Romantic Movies

One Day (2011)

Two people from opposite sides of the tracks begin a lifelong friendship in the late ’80s. Emma (Anne Hathaway), an idealist from a working-class family, wants to make the world a better place. Dexter (Jim Sturgess), a playboy, thinks the world is his oyster. For the next 20 years, the two friends reunite on the 15th of each July, sharing dreams, tears and laughter.

Romantic Movies

How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)

An advice columnist, Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson), tries pushing the boundaries of what she can write about in her new piece about how to get a man to leave you in 10 days. Andie goes off to find a man she can use for the experiment and finds executive Ben Berry (Matthew McConaughey), who is so confident in his romantic prowess that he thinks he can make any woman fall in love with him in 10 days. When Andie and Ben meet, both their plans backfire.

Romantic Movies

The Notebook (2004)

In 1940s South Carolina, mill worker Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) and rich girl Allie (Rachel McAdams) are desperately in love. But her parents don’t approve. When Noah goes off to serve in World War II, it seems to mark the end of their love affair. But when Noah returns to their small town years later, on the cusp of Allie’s marriage to another man, it soon becomes clear that their romance is anything but over.

Romantic Movies

Shakespeare in Love (1998)

Set in the 1590s, this is the timeless tale behind the creation of the greatest love story ever told. A young Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) is out of cash and ideas, he meets his ideal woman and she inspires him to write one of his most famous plays.

Romantic Movies

Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

After the death of his wife, Sam Baldwin (Tom Hanks) moves to Seattle with his son, Jonah. When Jonah calls in to a talk-radio program to find a new wife for his father, Sam grudgingly gets on the line to discuss his feelings. Annie Reed (Meg Ryan), a reporter in Baltimore, hears Sam speak and falls for him, even though she is engaged. Unsure where it will lead, she writes Sam a letter asking him to meet her at the Empire State Building on Valentine’s Day.

Romantic Movies

Titanic (1997)

The epic tale of Jack and Rose, two lovers abroad the greatest ship to ever sink. A fictionalized account of the sinking of the RMS Titanic, Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Rose (Kate Winslet) are members of different social classes who fall in love aboard the ship during its ill-fated maiden voyage and shows their fight for survival and to escape the disaster together.

Romantic Movies

Love Story (1970)

When wealthy Harvard University law student Oliver Barrett IV (Ryan O’Neal) meets Jenny Cavilleri (Ali MacGraw), a middle-class girl who is studying music at Radcliffe College, it’s love at first sight. Despite the protests of Oliver’s father (Ray Milland), the young couple marry. Oliver finds a job at a legal firm in New York City, but their happy life comes crashing down when it’s discovered that Jenny has a terminal illness. Together, they try to cope with the situation as best they can.

Romantic Movies

A Walk to Remember (2002)

Set in North Carolina, a jaded, aimless high school senior (Shane West) falls in love with a quiet young woman (Mandy Moore) he and his friends once bullied. The two develop a powerful and inspirational relationship in which they discover truths that take most people a lifetime to learn.

Romantic Movies

Dirty Dancing (1987)

Baby (Jennifer Grey) hopes to enjoy her youth while it lasts, but is disappointed when her summer plans deposit her at a sleepy resort in the Catskills with her parents. When the resort’s handsome dance instructor, Johnny (Patrick Swayze), enlists Baby as his new partner the two fall in love. But Baby’s father forbids her from seeing Johnny, leaving her determined to break the rules and put on a performance of a lifetime.

Your 2018 Love Forecast

By Maeri Frances

Does Cupid have you in his sights this year? Whether you have already found Mr. or Ms. Right, or are still hopeful, let’s take a look at how the stars are boosting your romantic prospects for 2018. Bear in mind that Venus, the planet of love, goes into retrograde motion from October 6th to November 16th, so don’t push relationship matters too hard around those dates. Don’t forget, your rising sign plays a big role, so check that out as well if you know it.

Aries

With so much of your energy directed to your career and matters in the world at large, you may need a gentle nudge this year when it comes to affairs of the heart. March is the time to update your look and attract the right sort of attention, and the second half of June could be the best time to plan a romantic summer break.

February focus: Although all the hype is about the 14th, your most romantic day is actually the 7th. Be original and celebrate early! You also need time for yourself this month to avoid burnout, plan this carefully.

Taurus

Partnership matters have been receiving a lot of support in the past months, and there is still a lot of love coming your way. April is the time for singles to shine, and mid-July has some lovely days for togetherness in a relaxed environment. Mark the 22nd of July for a date night to remember.

February focus: The Valentine’s mood gets going for you from the 11th of the month. The 14th could be subject to mix-ups and confused plans, but don’t worry too much as events on the 16th should make up for it.

Gemini

If your love life has been subject to blockages and delays in past months, you can feel a lot more optimistic about 2018. Steps taken now should blossom into something good by 2019. Singles may find romance in their workplace, or through connections made in their job. A shared interest in wellbeing or fitness may play an introductory role.

February focus: The 16th shines for you, but don’t let your emotions run wild, as there is potential for misunderstandings and hurt feelings on the 17th. Maybe you have decided to go more public with a relationship?

 

Cancer

Benevolent Jupiter is still offering opportunities in your sector of romance, children and creativity for most of the year. That’s the good news. Committed relationships are a little more complicated, with planetary heavies Saturn and Pluto spotlighting a need for compromise, patience and responsibility. Handled wisely, you could create liaisons that can stay the course.

February focus: Once you can get through the first week and its theme of sorting out financial issues you should be able to kick back and enjoy the love… especially on the 16th, which has lovely energy.

Leo

As temperatures warm up, so does Leo’s zest for life and love. A golden tan looks better on you than anyone, so make a point of hitting the beach before the crowds. The last 10 days of June should be blissful and you will not be short of admiring glances. But, winter also holds potential for new attractions, from November onwards. Singles, hit the gym!

February focus: Be open to new and slightly quirky people entering your life. This month you should sit back and let others call the shots, they will be attracted to you like moths to a flame. The 7th is a good day to get out and party.

Virgo

You have been waiting patiently for a little amour to come your way, and this could be the year. The key to this lies in planetary support from practical earth signs. You should be feeling a lot more grounded and confident, and that in its’ self is attractive to others. Try to plan a trip with someone special to you during the second half of July.

February focus: Try to take your attention off the 9 to 5 and step away from work long enough to enjoy a bit of social activity. The second half of February looks promising, with inspirational people playing a role in your life.

Libra

Libra loves being in love; life without it would be impossible for you. So whether single or married, you will be happy to hear that your committed relationships are likely to become more stable this year. Domestic life may be more routine than you like, so it will be up to you to create a bit of magic with spontaneous gestures. August is the month for you this year, just be your usual outgoing and charming self.

February focus: What a great month this is for you! Be open to invitations from original and imaginative people who think outside of the box. The 3rd and 7th are standout days.

Scorpio

You may have been experiencing a period of personal growth, and sometimes that takes its toll on relationships. However, if you have managed to tap into your creative and intuitive side you should have been able to create a wonderful empathy with your significant other. Nurture that bond, and keep channels of communication deep and sincere. Make the most of the second week of September.

February focus: Keep the fires of love burning brightly by staying close to home. Intimate evenings with the one you love will work better than hitting the party scene. The 27th could be important.

Sagittarius

This year may see a more mature version of you emerging, so hopefully your nearest and dearest will learn to adapt. You should have a better handle on managing your life, which will be an asset for single girls and guys looking to settle down. You still haven’t ditched your sense of humor or adventure though, thank heavens! The last two months of the year will open up all sorts of opportunities, both romantic and otherwise.

February focus: The first half of the month will probably see you really busy, so make up for that by having a more chilled second half. The 14th is a good time to voice your feelings for someone.

Capricorn

You can breathe a sigh of relief this year. It will be a year when people are much more realistic and ready to knuckle down to hard work. Not romantic enough? But it works for you. You can feel a lot of affection for people who share your values; it is the basis of good, solid relationships. Sudden attractions can be exciting for singles, especially around mid-May. September is a great time for being with your special person, plan quality time together.

February focus: Try to remember this month that it is not the gift, but the thought behind it. Even if finances are a bit tight, come up with something original and straight from the heart. The 16th looks special.

Aquarius

This year the important first step is to learn how to love your self more. Nothing can grow without that. Saturn and Pluto in your house of “let’s-put-it-to-the-side-and-deal-with-it-later” stuff are demanding that you deal with it now. Clear out your emotional clutter, face up to issues you have been in denial about, and hey, you will let the light come streaming in, along with a lot of the love you deserve.

February focus:  The planets are conspiring to make sure you actually have some fun this month. Venus flows through your birth sign in the early weeks, giving you a special aura. If people reach out, say, “yes”!

Pisces

This year you feel more at ease with supportive earth energy to the fore. Your occasional burst of insecurity can be eased by having solid relationships with people who make you feel secure and protected. OK, so they can be a tad boring at times, but don’t be tempted to throw them away for the sake of a passing attraction without real substance.

February focus:  Let your heart grow a little bigger this month, you need the romance! The 21st and 27th are key days.

India Along the Nile’s Dahi Ka Gola

Feel like indulging in an authentic Indian appetizer? These delicious fried cheese balls will be the talk of the town at your next gathering, so don the chef’s hat and get rolling!

Ingredients:

1000 gm labneh
200 gm cream cheese
300 gm Halloumi cheese
5 gm chopped green chili
20 gm chopped coriander stems
15 gm chopped ginger
100 gm fried onion
2 chopped fresh onion
15 gm table salt
10 gm rock salt
10 gm roasted cumin powder
5 gm mace and cardamom powder
180 gm hummus powder
100 gm Japanese bread crumbs
200 ml oil for frying

Method:

Add all ingredients to a mixing bowl, except for oil and Japanese bread crumbs. Mix the ingredients together and roll them into a ball using your palm.

Coat the ball with bread crumbs and chill for four hours.

Heat oil until 180°C and deep fry the prepared yoghurt ball until it turns golden-brown.

Serve hot.

In Theaters February 2018

Game Night (2018)

 

A group of friends who meet regularly for game nights find themselves trying to solve a murder mystery.

Directors: John Francis Daley, Jonathan Goldstein

Writer: Mark Perez

Stars: Jesse Plemons, Rachel McAdams, Jason Bateman

 

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Annihilation (2018)

A biologist signs up for a dangerous, secret expedition where the laws of nature don’t apply.

Director: Alex Garland

Writers: Alex Garland (adaptation), Jeff VanderMeer (novel)

Stars: Natalie Portman, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Tessa Thompson

 

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Samson (2018)

After losing the love of his life to a cruel Philistine prince, a young Hebrew with Supernatural strength defends his people, sacrificing everything to avenge his love, his people, and his God.

Directors: Bruce Macdonald, Gabriel Sabloff (co-director)

Writers: Jason Baumgardner, Galen Gilbert | 2 more credits »

Stars: Jackson Rathbone, Billy Zane, Taylor James

Reconnecting with a Couples’ Retreat

 

When daily chores become overwhelming and a busy schedule leaves little time for your significant other it’s time to take action, or a little pleasant inactivity, as the case may be. Cairo West Magazine caught up with Marriage Counselor and founder of the RE, Rasha Salama, to explore the benefits of escaping ‘together’.

When and Why to Seek Help

RS: In Egypt, in a recent survey it was reported that the majority of couples seek professional help when they are at the edge of divorce; that is, after they have been suffering from marital distress for years. Nonetheless, more and more people are accepting the idea of couples or marriage counseling, and it has become more common for couples to visit a marriage counselor when they have failed to find any other solution to their problems.

There is no single reason for marital or relationship struggles. Besides the daily stressors that negatively affect the relationship, lack of communication, trust issues and financial responsibilities are amongst the key reasons for problems arising.

I also believe that we, as Egyptians, do not invest enough time and effort into our relationships and do not see it as a priority. We focus our energies on learning about parenting, marketing trends, fashion trends, even bitcoins and do not bother researching how to maintain a healthy relationship. There are tons of articles on the Internet and hundreds of books that can help us avoid marital problems and help us deal with them when they arise. This is one area in our life that is fundamental to our wellbeing and our fulfillment in life partially depends on our fulfillment in our relationship.

How Can a Retreat Help?

It is no surprise that every relationship has its challenges and addressing them is fundamental to the growth and sustainability of the relationship, because avoiding them creates a build-up of negative emotions that lead to resentment between partners on the long run. Going on retreats is recommended by relationship experts at least once a year and up to three times a year. A couples’ retreat is a time for couples to detach from the stress of their lives and responsibilities and focus on their relationship and their partners.

A retreat is also time alone away from children, family and friends. The retreat allows partners to break the routine and boredom in their lives and increase the intimacy between them. This will lead to a greater and stronger bond. Simply, couple retreats are a refresher to the relationship. In the RE we plan the retreats to address a particular relationship challenge by setting goals and after the couple return from the retreat we assess if the goal was reached; if no, then why not, and if yes, then how can we sustain it amidst the daily routine of the couple.

A retreat is minimum a weekend and up to 10 days. The RE tailors its retreat duration to meet the client’s need.

Tailoring the Retreat

The first step in tailoring a retreat is to address the marital challenge of a particular couple is through an assessment meeting in which we understand the nature of the couple’s relationship and their personalities and interests. At the end of this meeting, we come out with a core issue around which I design the retreat. According to research, 69% of marital problems are perpetual issues; that is, in every relationship there is a particular topic that couples keep fighting around even if the situation is different.

In group retreats, we choose a generic topic like prioritizing or communication or trust and build the retreat around it from a broader perspective, allowing for individual time slots to explore and address individual issues and needs.

How is a Retreat Structured?

Since the RE is focused on delivering a transformational experience, our programs are centered on fun. This is tricky because what is fun for one partner does not necessarily have to be fun for the other. So we make sure in the assessment meeting to identify what is fun for each individual (same applies with group retreats). The program revolves around games and activities.

We turn every step into a game; for example, when the couples are headed to breakfast, instead of walking to the restaurant we ask them to each takes a different route and whomever gets to the restaurant first is the winner and gets to be served breakfast by the other partner. Through such a game we add a challenge for couples and allow them to try something new and enjoy a laugh.

The 4 Types of Retreats

The RE has 4 types of retreats: a romantic getaway, an adventure retreat, a cultural retreat and a combination (of all three) retreat. A romantic getaway would ideally be a relaxing destination. An adventure retreat would take place in a destination where there are loads of things to do, such as diving, zip lining, bungee jumping, sky diving, camping, fishing, and so on. A cultural retreat would take place in a destination with museums, music concerts, art galleries, etc. The combination retreat would be in a destination that is relaxing, with some adventure and a cultural element.

Since the RE retreats are tailored, the couple gets to contribute in the retreat destination. A beach destination can be a romantic getaway where the couple get to enjoy and relax on the beach, or an adventure retreat if they participate in any water sports or activities like diving, surfing or kayaking and it can also be a cultural retreat if they explore the nearby village.

We are planning three group retreats in 2018, two of which will be inside Egypt and one abroad. Our first group couple retreat is scheduled on the weekend of the 8th to the 10th of February in beautiful Ras Sudr on the Red Sea. This is a romantic getaway kind of retreat where couples will relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Red Sea while learning how to prioritize their partner and their relationship. “Us First” is the title of this retreat.

Couples’ Retreats Vs Couples’ Counseling

When couples are tense and drowning in their marital problems they need couples counseling not a couple retreat, unless they are willing to put their problems aside and instead of focusing on their problems, they make a conscious decision every second of the day on the retreat to focus on building their relationship, and not on solving the problem. This however, requires a very disciplined type of couple and is usually risky.

I would recommend a couple’s retreat to every couple that has not reached the downward spiral phase in their relationship yet but need some time together to maintain their healthy marriage status quo. A couple’s retreat is also very useful for couples that have completed couple’s counseling.

Contact Information  

Web: www.re-relationretreat.com

Facebook: RElationREtreat

Instagram: therelationretreat

What’s New Around Town – February 2018

We are an industrial design Café which has a great interior offering a different mood with a sunny roof and serving street food and shisha. Opening time 8 am to 2 am.
Address: Atrium Plaza, Sector 12, Sheikh Zayed.
Tel: 0106 3555000
Facebook / Instagram: bikiaeatery

Ace Hardware is the one-stop shop for consumers’ home needs. ACE Hardware has three stores in Egypt; Shororuk – Sky Mall, Sheration – Heliopolis, and the newest branch in Dandy Mega Mall
To celebrate the Grand Opening of the latest store in Dandy Mega Mall, ACE Hardware is offering a special promotion while stocks last in all branches until the 3rd of Feb 2018.
Address: Shop number: 251A, Dandy Mega Mall
Tel: 19309
www.acehardware.com.eg

#SaharaSavesAPaw t-shirt proceeds will go to animal shelters across Egypt. If you care for voiceless souls, join us in providing better living conditions and medical treatment for our furry friends!
Locally produced in Egyptian cotton, by buying this t-shirt you will help save a paw.
Addresses: 10 Brazil St and 13 Mansour Mohamed, Zamalek
Tel: 02 2736 5359 – 02 2737 7964
Address: Nomad Gallery, 14 Saray El Gezira, Zamalek
Tel: 02 2736 1917
Facebook / Instagram: TheSaharaCollection

3agal Masr is a bicycle store selling top line bicycle brands, accessories and spare parts as well as providing maintenance service and bike rent.

3agal Masr is the sole authorized distributor of top notch bicycle/accessories brands like Trek (USA), Electra (USA), Bontrager (USA), Fuji (USA), BH (SPAIN), Saris/CycleOps (USA). Our bike collection includes kids bikes, Mountain, Road, Hybrid, Cruisers, Tricyles, Foldable, E-Bikes, and Fat Bikes.
Address: Safwa Mall, Main Mehwar Rd, Across Galleria 40, Sheikh Zayed
Tel: 0102 888 2666/444
Facebook / Instagram: 3agalmasr
www.3agalmasr.com

Bouabjian Store is an Armenian family-run business in operation since 1930. Famous for its fashionable clothing, accessories and outstanding DIY tools and kits, the range of products is endless. Customers can find items related to clothing, wedding, hair, home accessories, knitting yarn, cotton, buttons, garments, printed canvases, and much more! It’s a colorful world at Bouabjian’s store.
Address: 16th District, inside Mazar Mall, Sheikh Zayed
Tel: 02 2393 0993
Facebook: Bouabjian

Galleria 40

Modern, colorful and eccentric pieces with the intent to complete an outfit by being the main feature of any ensemble. Launched in 2014, Khafaga has also collaborated famous Egyptian designers like Farida Temraz to diversify her products into more than just jewelry fashion.
Address: Galleria40
Facebook: AliAKhafagaJewelry
Instagram: aliakhafaga

 

 

 

 

Reem Jano transforms raw material into jewelry and translates inner vision to outer reality. Gold, silver, and brass are the three main materials she uses in her designs, as well as her own secret material.
Address: Galleria40
Instagram: reemjanojewellery

 

ZAAM is a brand of contemporary leather clutches and handbags with a touch of vintage and urban aesthetic. Launched in June 2012 by the Egyptian designer Ahmed Azzam, it became known for its unique shapes that set them apart from other bags in the market.
Address: Galleria40
Facebook: ZAAMdesigns

 

Nada Akram Designs is a ready-to-wear fashion line for women with a funky vintage themed line, turning Egyptian culture into something funky to highlight the Middle East identity without losing the modern side.
Address: Galleria40
Facebook: Nadaakramdesigns
Instagram: nadaakram

 

 

Shaymaa Maher offers sophisticated and elegant gowns that suit every woman looking for originality, goodness and distinction. Every woman deserves to be happily dressed in a regal, classy and fashionable gown.
Address: Galleria40
Facebook: shayscouture
Instagram: shayscouture

Dwaik’s is the perfect place to treasure hunt and carries many rare and unique pieces in one place if you are searching for unique furniture, home accessories, lighting and arts.
Address: Galleria40
Facebook: dwaiksdesignhouse
Instagram: dwaiksdesignhouse

 

Fabs is an authentic shoes designer, offering original leather shoes that are reliable, comfy and unique. Dress them down anytime of the day throughout the seasons, you will never find anything better to comfort your feet.
Address: Galleria40
Facebook: Fabsegypt
Instagram: fabsegypt

 

A natural cosmetics brand that is specialized in solving personal beauty problems by producing effective innovative products. Ingredients are good enough to eat, so they are good enough for your body and hair.
Address: Galleria40
Instagram: secretsofnature.eg

 

 

Modern art vs contemporary is what you will find at Samah Gallery. If you are looking to accessorize your home, visit Samah Art Gallery and pick all you need from paintings to sculptures.

Address: Galleria40
Facebook: Samah-art-gallery

 

Find all you need from clothes, jewelry, bags, belts, and even home accessories brought to you by some very talented Egyptian local designers.
Address: Galleria40
Instagram: R_A_X_egypt

 

 

At Menna Hamza, the products are made of the finest metals along with precious stones and Swarovski crystals with attention to the most intricate details. Every piece is one of a kind and made with love.

Address: Galleria40
Facebook: menna.hamza.jewellery
Instagram: menna.hamza

What NOT to Miss on the East Side! february 2018

1920s Boutique Hotel & Restaurants

Almaza’s latest fine dining hub is situated at the historic, newly renovated Villa of Ya’akobian in the heart of buzzing Heliopolis. The 1920s building hosts a boutique hotel with a special retro taste and six extraordinary restaurants – Carlos, Le Pacha 1910, AEON, The Smokery, Divino Pizzaria and Ocea.
58 Beirut Street – Korba – Heliopolis
Telephone: 0120 719 8887
Facebook and Instagram: @1920sboutiquehotelandrestaurants

Bardo – Maadi Urban Clubhouse

Bardo is an urban clubhouse located in a 1940s run-down villa that has been transformed into a place to relax, enjoy a coffee in the garden, take in one of their classes on movement, art, design or multimedia. The clubhouse also hosts evening events and is available for private gatherings and pop up dinners.
Street 12, Maadi
Facebook and Instagram: @bardoclubhouse

Gustavo Café Sip-n-Bite

A cozy little coffee shop tucked away on road 233, this café offers an early breakfast, the opportunity to catch up on a book, or get some studying or work done. The menu has breakfast options, sandwiches, bakery pastries and salads. Two creative swing benches are set by the counter, guaranteeing distraction and a view of the street.

Address:  27 Road 233, Degla – Maadi

From  7 am to 1  am

Facebook and Instagram: @gustavo.cafe01

Mariela’s Bake 

Originally from Mexico, Mariela indulges her clients with her delicious cakes. Among her best bakes is the most authentic home-made Tres Leches cake you will ever taste (unless you travel abroad to Latin America, of course). This ultra-light, extra moist, fluffy sponge cake is soaked in three different types of milk – a great treat for your guests and the soul.
Telephone: 0109 759 2421
Instagram: @marielasbake

Gringos – Tex Mex in Point 90 Mall

For the delight of New Cairo’s residents, the city’s favorite Tex-Mex has landed at Point 90 Mall. No more crossing town to get satisfy your cravings for those massive burritos or other delicious menu items.

Address: Point 90 Mall – New Cairo
Telephone: 0112 800 0935
Facebook and Instagram: @gringosburrito

Bounce Egypt – Free Jumping Revolution

This massive indoor trampoline park offering a wide variety of activities is promising a lot of action and adrenaline. Just pick one of their many options like free jumping arena, slam dunk, cliff, or super tramp. Available for bookings, their birthday party package offers 2 hours of pure awesomeness and access to their own private party room. Activities are monitored by a party host and the minimum age is 3 years old. Check their website for offers and schedules.
Address: Cairo Festival City – Fifth Settlement
Bookings: 02 2616 8255 / 0103 380 7307
Facebook and Instagram: @bounceegypt

Ahmed Malek: A Shooting Star to Follow

From early childhood TV advertising spots to roles in award winning films, Ahmed Malek has blazed an unmistakable trail in the world of TV and cinema. From the TV hit El Gama’a, El Gezira 2, Clash, Hepta: The Last Lecture, Sheikh Jackson and more recently the Ramadan 2017 hit series La Tottfea Al Shams; Malek has captured attention and acclaim. How, Cairo West Magazine wondered, does he unerringly land the roles that will propel him even further into the spotlight? We caught up with him to learn more.

Choosing Roles and Methods

I choose roles based on how I feel I can represent them truthfully. Of course, also because of the scripts and the filmmaker, because the filmmaker is the most important component of the movie.

CWM: You seem to have natural ease and a lot of presence on screen, what do you attribute this to?

To my mother! No, seriously, it is from working hard. Each role requires a different form of preparation and I start by studying the character I am playing. I haven’t established a technique; I take a bit from here, a bit from there. I ask and ask, and try to answer. I dig deep inside.

A Rising Star

CWM: What are your thoughts on being selected by Screen International as one of the five promising Arab stars?

I am happy because it is a form of appreciation, and especially as it is international not just local. When you are appreciated, you want to offer more.

El Deif: A New Challenge

CWM: When will you be starting work on the film, El Deif, with director Hadi El Baghoury?

We started working in January and are looking at the release in mid-June.

CWM: What can you tell us about this new role?

The role requires work from me that I have never tackled before. That is the only thing I can say. It is a huge, huge commitment.

CWM: How important is it for an actor to have a good rapport with a director?

It is vital, because at the end of the day the director literally gives the direction for you, like a compass. He is the one who guides you, he is the leader, so you follow him. He puts you in the right place, as he sees you; at the end of the day you are a tool for the filmmaker. The more you have a connection with the director the more fruitful it is, the better the result.

His Craft and Mentors

CWM: Who have you learned most from when it comes to honing your craft?

Gerald James, a member of the Actor’s Studio in LA, and teacher at Lee Strasberg Studio; he has been introducing a technique called Beyond the Method here in Egypt for the past six years. I have been participating in his workshops for the past three years. He is a person who has really taught me the craft of acting.

CWM: Have there been any special mentors in your life who have given you support and encouragement?

Anyone who supports me in my craft like Gerald James, but every career phase has its mentor, there is no specific person.

CWM: What is top of your bucket list for 2018?

Performing even more truthfully and becoming a better artist.

————

Quickfire Round

Best way to start the day?

Exercise

Best way to end the day?

Reading

Person who knows your innermost dreams?

No one, not even myself

Way to relax?

Meditate

On your playlist?

Radiohead

Social media?

Instagram

Night owl or early bird?

Night owl

Something you always carry with you?

A bag full of my stuff.

Your soft spot?

Having fun

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