Nourishing & Replenishing Local Beauty Products

The amount of chemicals that we put on our skin is scary, some research claims more than 500 chemicals found in beauty and cosmetic products are absorbed by our skin. But there are natural, effective, and less costly alternatives. We’ve rounded up just a few of the local offerings for you, would make for great Christmas gifts!

Areej

Areej is an Egyptian aromatherapy products maker. It uses naturally-derived and certified organic plant ingredients to create its range of oils.

Forever Young Moisturizing Serum: This stuff is like satin on your skin, and it actually works! Made of 100% natural moisture-retaining oils, Forever Young nourishes dry areas and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles without clogging pores. It’s made for all skin types.

How to use it: Apply twice daily after cleansing with fingertips or cotton swab, and gently massage into delicate area around eyes, face and neck until absorbed.

Energy Capture: Energy Capture is 100% natural body aroma, wear it instead of perfume and eliminate chemicals on your skin. Made of natural herbs and flowers, this range balances natural oils in the body.

Scents available:

– Geranium: relief of anxiety, the enhancement of circulation, and rejuvenation of skin.

– Jasmine: relief of muscle aches and pains, and as an aphrodisiac.

– Lavender: stress relief and relaxation.

– Marjoram: calming the mind and relieving headaches. Can also be used for massages.

– Neroli: for chronic anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

– Rose: soothing various skin conditions, relieving muscle spasms, and headaches.

How to use it: Use as an all-over body moisturizer or as an aromatherapy boost throughout the day by applying to pulse points. Massage few drops onto damp skin after the shower or bath to help seal in moisture. Add two tablespoons to bath water for more hydrated, softer skin. Also, can be used for body massage.

Visit on Facebook: AreejAromatherapy

Black Lotus

Black Lotus is a 100% natural skin care brand that is locally made. From soaps to oils, hair products, scrubs, mosquito repellants, deodorants, bath salts and much, much more. Their stuff smells good and feels great!

Ylang Ylang and Bergamot Natural Deodorant: A jar of this stuff can last you about 8 months! Made of 100% natural oils, it smells fantastic, doesn’t irritate or discolor the skin, and works quite powerfully. You know the oil is natural because it behaves like natural oils should: not oily, liquid in summer, more paste-like in colder temperatures.

How to use it: After a shower, apply using finger tips, or buy a pack of wooden tongue depressors (used by doctors to check your throat – also known as popsicle sticks) and use it to apply the deodorant.

 Anti-Ants Spray: Ok, so this is not exactly a beauty product, but it can certainly promote peace-of–mind. Made with clove and peppermint essential oils, as well as alcohol. It won’t stain, and it’s long-lasting.

How to use it: Spray this in the spots where you normally see ants in the home, or where you would like to safeguard against ants. Guaranteed, you won’t be seeing ants there for a while! Another great tip to keep ants away from your sweets like honey and chocolate spread is to place them in the same cupboard as your herbs and spices. The strong scent of herbs and spices acts as a natural repellant to all forms of crawlies.

Visit on Facebook: blacklotusegypt

Bubblzz

Using kitchen chemistry, this happy brand uses wholesome, natural ingredients like organic oils, essential oils and chemical-free aromatic fragrances.

Bubblzz Herbal Moisture Lock Shampoo: This sulphate-free and paraban-free shampoo is infused with organic coconut oil and jojoba oil. It is also fortified with panthenol and vitamin E. A unique blend of wheat protein, lavender, rosemary and geranium essential oils restore moisture to damaged and color-treated hair.

How to use it: Use as you would your regular shampoo. Daily shampooing in general is not recommended as your hair can benefit from the scalp’s naturally produced oils.

 Sugar n Cream Shea Butter Body Scrub: This scrumptious scrub is enriched with Shea butter and coconut oil to lock in moisture and nourish your skin. The sugar exfoliates and removes the layer of dead skin. Comes in a range of scents like Bubblegum, Cherry, Watermelon and Cupcake.

How to use it: In the shower, apply to your wet skin then rinse off with water.

Visit on Facebook: Bubblzzeg

Kham

Kham produces a range of 100% natural food and beauty products.

Lice Prevention Treatment Spray: School season means lice season, and you don’t want your kids missing any school days because of a lice infestation. This preventative treatment is made with tea tree and lavender oils, both natural lice repellants. It is also safe to use on your children’s scalp.

How to use it: For prevention spray this daily before your little one’s head to school, especially behind the ears, and at the back of the neck. As a treatment, spray on hair and scalp at night and comb through thoroughly. Cover hair overnight, and in the morning comb with a fine-tooth comb to get rid of dead lice. Repeat again as needed.

Eyelash Growth Serum: This serum is made of a mixture of natural oils and vitamins including castor oil and jojoba oil. The blend is harmless and moisturizes the sensitive skin around the eyes.

How to use it: Apply to the lash-line and eyebrows, on a clean face, using a cotton bud or a Q-tip.

Visit on Facebook: kham.healthshop

Rayhanna Naturals

Founded by a Botanical Pharmacist, this brand offers herbal-based toxic-free holistic skin products.

Edible Lip Balms: With chapped-lip season in swing, these natural (and delicious) lip balms will come in handy. Made of natural butters, beeswax and natural oils as well as real fruit extracts and an imported lip balm formula. With flavors like strawberry, watermelon, mango, vanilla, chocolate, banana and berries, these balms are nourishing and moisturizing to your lips.

How to use it: Apply on dehydrated lips, or as a daily lip moisturizer.

Lotion Bars: A blend of mango butter, Shea butter, cacao butter, sesame oil, jojoba oil, and beeswax, these lotion bars melt into your skin with a single swipe, and no greasy feeling. It comes in Geranium or Citronella mix.

How to use it: Swipe along skin after a hot shower, or for daily use. Use on legs, arms, and body. The size is handy and can fit in your purse.

Visit on Facebook: Rayhanna Naturals

Secrets of Nature

Founded by a certified aromatherapist, Secrets of Nature is a natural cosmetics brand that uses fresh and organic herbs, essential oils, and seeds to make its wide range of products.

Sweet Treat Argan & Shea Hot Oil Mask: This sweet smelling hair treatment deeply conditioning for dry and damaged hair. Perfect for the winter season and the sea-water and chlorine filled summer season.

How to use it: Apply to lightly damp hair, comb through, place hair into a bun and cover with a hot towel. Leave on for 20-30 minutes, rinse out. Repeat once per week, or use as daily conditioner, but leave in for 5-10 minutes.

Visit on Facebook: SecretsOfNature.eg

Classics We Love

 Nefertari Rose Water: Used as a facial toner, smoothes skin, restores PH balance, and smells great! Highly recommended!

Imtenan Castor Oil: Used on eyebrows and eyelashes to promote hair growth, nourishes and moisturizes skin.

Must-Have Party Season Makeup

Perfect your party make-up look with any of these hot ticket colors and brands! All items can be found in Wojooh Beauty. Store locations in Cairo and Alex found online.

LIPS

Metallic Liquid Lipstick – Cherry Bomb

Add some glam and moisture with this Gerard Cosmetics liquid lipstick.

Artist Rouge Lipstick – Plum Violet

This is a must-have color this season and will make your lips stand apart from the rest! Grab this shade from Make Up For Ever.

Rouge Dior 994

J’adore Dior! This rich and delicious color is perfect to warm up those chilly December nights.

Matte Shaker – Energy Peach

Try something different with this youthful shade of peach from Lancome.

EYES

Couture Mono Eyeshadow – Caftan

Go light on the lips and heavy on the lids with this deep purple eyeshadow from Yves Saint Laurent.

Eyes to Kill Shadow Pots

Nothing spells P-A-R-T-Y like these three killer shades from Giorgio Armani! Grab these shades and mix and match some dramatic eye looks to match your every party mood.

Color swatches left to right: Gold Blitz, Purpura, and Sweet fire.

SKIN

Cheek Fabric 507

Bring some color to those cheeks with Giorgio Armani’s rosy solution for dull weather.

Fluid Sheer 6

If you prefer a more fluid solution to cheek color, grab this Giorgio Armani product instead.

Everlasting Foundation 18 HR Coverage 

Get long-lasting 18 hour coverage and sun protection with this light liquid foundation from Clarins in the shade of your choice, perfect for both everyday wear and a night out.

Make Up For Ever – Ultra HD Foundation

Need something a bit heavier? This foundation will cover any blemishes and make your skin picture-perfect smooth in the event of flash photography, which of course will most likely happen at a huge event.

Art Exhibitions December 2017

Al-Kahila

Exhibition Name: A Gentle Giant
Artist: Ahmed Dafrawy
Opening Night: December 11th, 2017 at 7 pm
Exhibition lasts: December 21st, 2017
Address: 15 El Batal Ahmed Abd El Aziz, Mohandesen

Picasso

Exhibition Name: Spectra
Artist : Khaled Abul-Dahab
Opening Night: December 3rd, 2017
Exhibition lasts: December 19th, 2017
Address: 30 Hassen Assem St., Zamalek

Mashrabia

Exhibition Name: Swimming with the Remains of a Time to Come
Artist: Mohamed Abd El Moneim
Opening Night: December 10th, 2017
Exhibition lasts: January 18th, 2018
Address: 8 Champollion Street, Downtown

Ubuntu

Exhibition Name: Dreams of Freedom
Artist: Amgad El Tohamy
Opening Night: November 26th, 2017
Exhibition lasts: December 16th, 2017
Address: 20 Hassan Sabry St. (entrance from Ibn Zinky St), Zamalek.

Your Horoscope in December 2017

Just when we thought things were swinging along rather nicely, whoops… here comes a speed bump. Rather, a Mercury retrograde, yet again. Back up that computer, get that overdue service done on the car, and be prepared for a few glitches and delays as the month rolls on. It doesn’t last forever, but to be forewarned should help. This is preceded by the month opening with a sharp jolt to the status quo when Mars and Uranus face off from Aries and Libra. Cooperation, partnerships and agreements are all under threat if tempers are let loose.

December Birthdays:  Sherihan – December the 6th (performer), Mohamed Zidan – December the 11th (footballer), Jamie Foxx – December the 13th (actor), Nelly Karim – December the 18th (actress), Brad Pitt – December the 18th (actor), Samuel L. Jackson – December the 21st (actor), Sherif Arafa – December the 25th (film director), Hisham Abdel Khalek – December the 25th (film director), Denzel Washington – December the 28th (actor).

Our Birthday Sign: Sagittarius

This month heralds a change of pace as Saturn finally moves out of your birth sign. It probably hasn’t been the easiest of times over the past couple of years, but you can chalk it up to experience and valuable lessons learned. On the up side, whatever has been positive, be it new skills, maturity or even dropping a few unwanted kilos, the effects should be long-lasting. A well-time transit of Venus, planet of love, beauty and sweet treats, should make for added pleasant moments throughout the month.

Scorpio

Join the other signs in exercising extra care during the first week of December. You have immense self-control when you need it, and this month will call on you to think strategically and keep your focus. Money pressures may build up, so be diligent in keeping track of expenses so you don’t have any unwelcome surprises. Mars will spend time in your birth sign over the coming couple of months, so there will be extra reserves of energy at your disposal. Mind you, your schedule could be more demanding than usual, so it balances out.

Libra

You should be on guard for unexpected events on the 1st, especially if your birthday falls around the 18th or 19th of October. You might be a bit accident-prone, so take extra care. The whole month is booby-trapped for you in many ways, with communication skills being tested. Your safest route will be to limit driving, emailing, texting, What’sApping, and chatting as much as possible. There will be moments of inspiration, but put them into action after the first few weeks of the month.

Aries

Let us slip in a quick word while we have your attention. Keep your cool on the 1st of the month, especially if your birthday falls around the 17th of April.  It will be easy to let your temper get the better of you, or risk injury through being impatient. Actually, patience will be something to hold on to for the first three weeks of the month, as things will be slowed down, turned upside down and become generally frustrating. Your best days are likely to be around the 21st to 23rd, set them aside for special meet-ups.

Taurus

Once you get past a bit of a rocky start to the month on the 1st you can look forward to a rather pleasant day on the 3rd. The main message this month is to sort out your finances. Clear as many outstanding bills as possible before the new year starts, that way you can start with a clean slate. Saturn is moving into fellow earth sign Capricorn which rules your 9th house of foreign locales, so careful budgeting now may allow you to plan some trips out of town during the coming year. The 25th offers you a chance to sparkle, so accept any invitations that come your way.

Gemini

It’s all about relationships this December. There seems to be a lot going on with partnership issues, either business or romantic, or both. With Mercury in retrograde for most of the month you will need to be very precise in your communication, watch the fine print in contracts and when making plans with your significant other. Expect some intense conversations around the 13th, but bear in mind that misunderstandings can happen easily these days. The 21st looks great for social occasions, bookmark it now.

Cancer

Your sensitive nature recoils from conflict, and that is what is on the menu as the month opens. Pay it safe and stay clear of Aries, Capricorn and Libra people in your life. They are not likely to be on your wavelength around the 1st. The mood swings on the 3rd, and everyone around you will be much more in tune with your emotional nature. So much so that you may be feeling inspired and ready to take on great new projects. Just remember that Mercury turns retrograde the same day so keep your feet on the ground and do your homework thoroughly.

Leo

Even if you feel as though you are surrounded by numbskulls on the 1st, be magnanimous and keep your sharp tongue under control. The scene will improve within a day or two. The strong fire energy around this month works for you, and you will probably feel in a party mood. Active hobbies and sports should appeal, along with anything of a creative nature. Be ready for a surge of activity on the domestic scene during the coming weeks. Mark the 15th and 21st on your calendar, they are great days for getting together with friends.

Virgo

Batten down the hatches and protect yourself from a financial blow that might come your way around the 1st of the month. Try to get back on track before your ruling planet Mercury goes retrograde in your sector of home and property a few days later. Domestic life could be subject to confusion and misplaced items. Clear clutter and be as organized as possible. You may find yourself being a little snappy and terse in your communication as the month draws on, aim to be as sweet and diplomatic as possible to save having to make amends later.

Capricorn

This is a special month for Capricorns as your ruling planet Saturn comes into his home sign for a couple of years. It will help to stabilize matters in your life, and bring past efforts to fruition. On the down side, it could make you a little more susceptible to colds and chills, and zap your energy at times. If you were born in the first few days of Capricorn, this should be a rollicking festive season for you, so let your hair down and celebrate, especially around the 25th.

Aquarius

You may feel all sorts of undercurrents going on around you, without your being pulled into the fray. It will be a good idea to distance yourself from the action, just keep your head down and mind your own business as much as possible. Friends may need your support though, so be ready to step in and help when needed. Don’t get upset if plans and get-togethers are subject to changes and cancellations, be your usual chilled self and take things as they come. The 15th is a lovely day for a meet-up with buddies if you can manage it.

Pisces

The key to success this month lies in keeping track of your work and hectic social calendar. If you don’t have a little black book, get one now! Keeping things on an electronic device may not be the best idea; the Mercury retrograde could cause things to crash at a critical time. Generally speaking, this month’s planets continue to be supportive, even feisty Mars in Scorpio resonates well with your sign. Finances are a little tricky, as the month gets under way, but should improve gradually.

Christmas & NYE Venues 2017

Christmas & NYE Venues

CAIRO MARRIOTT HOTEL

24th and 25th of December:

On Christmas Eve and on Christmas, guests can enjoy a scrumptious buffet at Omar’s Café.  As always, The Bakery will have a delectable range of Christmas treats to keep the festive mood.

31st of December and 1st of January:

For a dinner party, head to Ristorante Tuscany, Harry’s Pub, Torii, or Som3a Basha for meticulously crafted set menus. The Empress Show Lounge will also keep you entertained all night long with star performances, a DJ and a band. The next morning, enjoy your first breakfast of 2018 at Promenade Café or Omar’s Café. If you partied at the Palace, a 30% discount will be given to you at the brunch buffet at Promenade Café.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL CAIRO AT THE FIRST RESIDENCE

24th and 25th of December:

For Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas Day lunch, the Tea Lounge will welcome its guests for a special Christmas set menu to go with Christmas inspired cocktails.

This Christmas, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence welcomes you for a Christmas-themed market in its renowned French Brasserie La Gourmandise, where all the Christmas goodies, pastries and other festive condiments one needs to feast for an authentic Christmas dinner at home with the family will be on display. All specially prepared, crafted and presented by Executive Chef Erwan Laurenceau and Executive Pastry Chef Benoit Loncle, who both grew up in the heart of France.

HELNAN DREAMLAND HOTEL

31st of December:

Helnan Dreamland Hotel will create a throwback to the 90s memories with star Hisham Abbas as part of a New Year’s Eve celebration. In addition, there will be Egyptian pop music with the star Hamada El Leithy and more entertainment from belly dancer Maya Maghrebi, as well as a DJ and more! Doors open at 9:30 pm, please note that children are not allowed. Valet parking is available.

INTERCONTINENTAL CAIRO SEMIRAMIS

24th, 25th and 31st of December:

India on the Nile will celebrate Christmas and New Year’s for its very first time this year. India on the Nile serves Indian cuisine in a modern, contemporary setting for redefined upscale dining. For Thai food, The Birdcage will feature Chef Narong’s irresistible à la carte menus on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in addition to unique New Year’s Eve set menus. Sabaya offers authentic Lebanese hospitality as Chef Baz arranges à la carte menus on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Go Italian in Pane Vino for Christmas Eve with an exclusive Dinner Dance with Cairo’s premier crooner Ahmed Harfoush, or come to The Grill’s fabulous Noël sur le Nile gala dinner on Christmas Eve and relish a five-course meal.

Toast in the New Year at the Cleopatra Ballroom’s best party of the year yet with the Middle East’s favorite star sensations and belly dancers. Revel in a sumptuous dinner course followed by an endless night of oriental entertainment with musical hits and lots of fun and excitement!

INTERCONTINENTAL, HOLIDAY INN AND STAYBRIDGE SUITES CAIRO CITYSTARS

24th and 25th of December:

From the 20th to the 25th of December, Esplanade is treating its guests to a gastronomic international buffet set to jazz with a live band and Christmas songs. Don’t miss Santa Claus distributing Christmas cookies on the 22nd. The mood is set at Bellini with an international drink list and pub style menu, live band and DJ on the 24th of December and with an à la carte menu and live entertainment on the 25th.

31st of December and 1st of January:

At Holiday Inn Citystars’s main restaurant Windows, you can treat yourself and the ones you love to a one-of-a-kind gastronomic gala dinner set menu with oriental music, belly dancer, and a DJ from 10 pm to 2 am. Celebrate the night the oriental way at Fayruz with a belly dancer and a finely selected set menu, or savor the best of Egyptian cuisine at Al Khal with a DJ starting 8 pm.  Get in a New Year’s Eve groove at Bellini with a three-course set menu, or dance the night away at The Lounge until 2 am.

JW MARRIOTT CAIRO

24th, 25th and 31st of December:

All outlets offer either a buffet dinner or a special set menu on Christmas Eve, along with the inclusion of welcome drinks at Lemongrass and Cucina. There are plenty of options for Christmas lunch on the 25th, choose from a family style brunch at Plateau, a buffet with entertainment at Mirage Café, Sushi Bar or View Lounge and Bar, or lunch à la carte at Lemongrass or Cucina. Celebrate the New Year in style at any of the outlet with entertainment, lavish buffets or set menu dining and a countdown for 2018.

KEMPINSKI NILE HOTEL

31st of December:

Ring in the New Year at Osmanly Restaurant with a six-course Turkish dinner and belly dancer entertainment. The Blue Restaurant will feature a Turkish buffet with background music as entertainment, while on the 10th floor the theme “Old is Gold” comes with free corkage and 50% discount on champagne. The after party at Jazz Bar will continue with the same theme.

KEMPINSKI SOMA BAY

24th, 25th and 31st of December:

Soak up the festive atmosphere to celebrate Christmas and New Year at Soma Bay.

The hotel’s festive setting unfolds a collection of dining experiences promising to be a special treat for the whole family. Spend time in a jolly mood on Saint Nicholas Day whilst Christmas stockings are distributed with a gift from Santa Claus to all of our little ones. Relish our homemade cookies and mulled wine, while listening to children’s Christmas carols.

On New Year’s Eve, a celebratory Cocktail Reception will be held in the Lobby Lounge with a live entertainment program. Savor a truly memorable gourmet dining experience with a New Year’s Eve gala dinner at The View restaurant then enjoy a wide range of drinks and cocktails and watch the midnight fireworks at Sultan Lounge.

LE MÉRIDIEN CAIRO AIRPORT

24th and 25th of December:

Get together and feel the magic of the festive season with family and friends at EVOO, with a delightful dinner buffet on the 24th  of December or a special Christmas lunch buffet on the 25th  of December.

31st of December:

Ring in the New Year at Live Sports Bar with a memorable performance by the Latino Dance Community and DJ Karimchata rolling out Salsa, Cubana, Reggaeton, Kizomba, commercial and dance beats. Or have a blast counting down to 2018 at Mezzeh, with a night of shakes and shimmies, enjoy with a phenomenal belly dancer, singer and live band. EVOO will offer an extravagant dinner buffet for ringing in the New Year in style.

LE MÉRIDIEN HELIOPOLIS

31st of December:

Marco Polo restaurant offers a charming candle light atmosphere featuring a five-course mouth-watering menu with live piano entertainment and a belly dancer performance. Barracuda discotheque warms up to meet the early hours of 2018, with music from a talented DJ. There will be a New Year’s gourmet set menu and a belly dancing performance.

LE MÉRIDIEN PYRAMIDS HOTEL & SPA

December 31st :

El Sultan Ballroom will ring in the New Year with a rich buffet and a full menu of entertainment, including a DJ, singer Hegazy Metqal and a belly dancer.

MENA HOUSE HOTEL

Mena House Hotel will offer special festive set-course menus on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

MÖVENPICK RESORT SOMA BAY

Movenpick Resort Soma Bay will have an evening of violin music as entertainment on Christmas eve followed by a special Christmas dinner buffet. Enjoy the views of the Red Sea with fireworks and celebrate New Year’s Eve with saxophonist Adam, a belly dancing show and DJ music for the whole night until the next year.

NILE RITZ-CARLTON, CAIRO

24th, 25th and 31st of December:

A carefully curated program of exciting events is guaranteed to create long-lasting memories for the whole family during the Christmas season. Santa Claus will accompany children to light the Christmas tree in the lobby and children will have the opportunity to take pictures with him. The children will also get the chance to personally design and take away their own ornaments in celebration of the season. There will also be exclusive Christmas spa packages and activities for hotel guests and their children including cookie decorating and Christmas movie programs. For Italian cuisine lovers, Vivo is offering a five-course dining experience in a modern, contemporary setting overlooking infinite views of the Nile and Cairo.

On the 31st, NOX invites guests to celebrate the arrival of the New Year in a luxurious and fun night of      dancing to one of Cairo’s best DJs.

RADISSON BLU HOTEL CAIRO HELIOPOLIS

24th, 25th and 31st of December:

There will be a sumptuous Christmas five-course meal on Sunday 24th and a New Year’s Eve celebration at signature restaurant FILINI.

RENAISSANCE CAIRO MIRAGE CITY HOTEL

24th, 25th and 31st of December:

Celebrate with a Chinese-style Christmas Eve set menu and Christmas lunch on the 25th of December at Chinese restaurant Chinoix, or enjoy a Christmas Dinner buffet and special Santa Claus giveaways on Christmas Eve from 6.30 pm until 10.30 pm along with a Christmas Lunch on the 25th of December at Citron.

You can party in style this New Year’s Eve at Vintage Bar & Lounge with a live DJ and exotic belly dancer.

Make it a bright and fresh start to the New Year in the welcoming surroundings of Citron, where you can pass a memorable night with a generous dinner buffet that includes live cooking stations and live entertainment. Chinoix also offers a special set menu on the 31st, with a wine package and live entertainment.

ROYAL MAXIM PALACE KEMPINSKI

6th of December:

Join us for joyful Christmas carols, home-made cookies and hot chocolate as the Christmas tree is lit at Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski’s Lobby at 7 pm.

24th, 25th and 31st of December:

Celebrate Christmas Eve at Lucca with a special four-course set menu in cozy surroundings or enjoy a fine Italian Christmas Brunch on the 25th. Enjoy a wide variety of Italian dishes accompanied by Joe the guitarist, while little ones enjoy the kids’ activities.

On the 24th, Romanov brings together an appetizing five-course set menu for Christmas Eve dinner to savor. Start your evening with a toast over a welcome complimentary drink.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with an exquisite five-course set menu dinner at Italian Restaurant Lucca, or share a complimentary sparkling toast and step into the sophisticated ambience of Romanov to enjoy a seven-course set menu along with live entertainment in a Great Gatsby theme. Try something a little different at Yana on New Year’s Eve with a wonderful five-course set menu from its Thai Chef.

BAB AL QASR offers a special five-course set menu along with a selection of Lebanese dishes infused with Egyptian flavors. Count down to the New Year with a special belly dance performance and a duo performing favorite songs.

January 1st:

Lucca offers Italian brunch with an impressive selection of culinary creations, guitar tunes and activities for the little ones.

SHERATON CAIRO HOTEL

24th, 25th and 31st of December:

Bridge Cafe will have a special selection of Christmas pastries, including a festive Christmas Log, in addition to musical entertainment on the 25th. Giannini’s New York Italian Restaurant offers a 6-course set menu dinner with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine included on both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. There will also be a special Christmas brunch on the 25th.

Studio 70 and Rawi Nightspot have special beverage and menu arrangements for the 31st, while Ivory Ballroom will be the venue for a luxurious Gala Dinner with great entertainment.

SHERATON MONTAZAH HOTEL ALEXANDRIA

December 31st:

Ring in the New Year at Tabia Ballroom with DJ Hassan Darwish, Alexandrian singers Fathy Meshaal and Yousry Abou El Wafa with his band, belly dancing, a luscious dinner menu and tombola prizes. Aquarius Discotheque and Caesar Inn also offer special menus and entertainment.

SHERATON SOMA BAY

The hotel offers special packages for the Christmas/New Year break. Last date for booking is December 10th.

THE WESTIN SOMA BAY GOLF RESORT & SPA

The hotel offers special packages for the Christmas/ New Year break. Last date for booking is December 10th.

Wellbeing Schedules December 2017

Your December Reading List by Diwan

Treasures of Coptic Art – Gawdat Gabra

The world’s largest and most exquisite collection of Coptic artifacts is now housed in the Coptic Museum, founded in Old Cairo in 1908. Here for the first time in this lavishly illustrated book, more than one hundred of the greatest treasures of the Coptic Museum have been beautifully photographed to present an overview of this rich artistic heritage.

Cairo Trilogy – Naguib Mahfouz

Naguib Mahfouz’s magnificent epic trilogy of colonial Egypt appears here in one volume for the first time. The Nobel Prize-winning writer’s masterwork is the engrossing story of a Muslim family in Cairo during Britain’s occupation of Egypt in the early decades of the twentieth century.

Giza and the Pyramids – Mark Lehner & Zahi Hawass

The definitive account of the greatest archaeological site by the world’s leading experts. For more than four thousand years the Pyramids of Giza have stood like giant question marks that have intrigued and endlessly fascinated people. Who exactly built them? When and why? How did they create these colossal structures?

Grand Hotels of Egypt – Andrew Humphreys

From the earliest rest-houses serving travelers on the Overland Route between Britain and Bombay to the grand Edwardian palaces on the Nile that made Egypt the exotic alternative to wintering on the Riviera, the hotels of Alexandria, Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan were always about far more than just bed and board. As bridgeheads for African exploration, neutral territories for conducting diplomacy, headquarters for armies, providers of home comforts for writers, painters, scholars, and archaeologists in the field, and social hubs for an international elite, more of importance happened in Egypt’s hotels than in any other setting.

Twentieth-Century Egyptian Art – Mona Abaza

Egypt’s modern art scene has been marked by many influential local and foreign painters. Mona Abaza retraces the highlights of the country’s twentieth-century art world through the private collection of one of Cairo’s most reputable private gallery owners, Sherwet Shafei.

Turtles All the Way Down – John Green

Aza is trying. She is trying to be a good daughter, a good friend, a good student, and maybe even a good detective, while also living within the ever-tightening spiral of her own thoughts.

How To Bullet Plan – Rachel Wilkerson Miller

A bullet journal is a planner; to-do list and diary that will help you get your life together! This fun, practical guide shows you how to start and keep a bullet journal: a single notebook in which you write down all the things that you want to remember, or need to do, or you’ve already done in every aspect of your life: work, home, relationships and hobbies.

Traditional Jewelry of Egypt – Azza Fahmy

For many women of Egypt, their jewelry is their wealth. Azza Fahmy, a world-renowned designer of jewelry based on traditional motifs, lays before us an Aladdin’s cave of jewelry made in all corners of Egypt over the last one hundred years, collected through her extensive travels throughout the country.

Origin – Dan Brown

Robert Langdon, Harvard professor of symbology and religious iconology, arrives at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao for the unveiling of a discovery that “will change the face of science forever.” The evening’s host is Edmond Kirsch is a billionaire and futurist whose dazzling high-tech inventions made him a renowned global figure. Kirsch, who was one of Langdon’s first students at Harvard two decades earlier, is about to reveal an astonishing breakthrough … one that will answer two of the fundamental questions of human existence.

A Yoga Practice for Every Personality

When Hibbah El Sayad was first introduced to yoga, she didn’t like it. Accustomed to high adrenalin, fast paced gym fitness, she was more used to blaring music, weights, and a high-octane workout. After moving to NYC in 2011, El Sayad began exploring the different yoga classes and realized there were types of yoga on offer to suit a number of needs. In the mood for a faster pace of movement with music? Power yoga is the answer. Need something slower and more mellow? Hatha yoga is the ticket. Coupled with her usual workouts, she began to notice changes in her behavior after a couple of months. Cairo West Magazine learned more about El Sayad’s journey to becoming a certified yoga instructor, and how yoga changed her life and can help others achieve more awareness and harmony in their lives.

CWM: How did yoga initially affect your perception and approach to life?

HS: Weeks after beginning yoga practice, I was reading a book and remembered there was something I needed to do. I went to get up and heard a voice in my head saying “Sit down, focus, finish what you are doing and then move on to something else”. I thought to myself, “Who is this?” For me, this was a big deal. At the time, I didn’t relate these small changes to the yoga practice I was doing, but today I know it was due to that. Yoga has an effect on us whether we intend or don’t intend it. Once you start to bring awareness into the equation, it can be life changing.

In 2012, I was facing a very challenging personal experience. I was physically, mentally and emotionally collapsing and knew I had to find a way to stand back on my feet. The only physical movement at the time I could do was yoga. I started practicing daily, and it was the only time I could soften, release, and let go of what was going on inside me. Yoga brought me back to life. It introduced me to a new version of myself with more awareness and a greater inner strength. That sparked my passion to learn, practice, and teach yoga to as many people as I can.

 What experiences within your training were really eye-opening and meaningful to you?

During my training I had a shoulder injury, so I had to learn to modify my practice, which I realized later had a profound impact on me as a person and teacher. As a naturally competitive person and a perfectionist, doing my teacher training on my knees and not able to execute simple and basic moves was so frustrating, annoying, and humiliating.

Later on, I realized there were so many lessons to learn from working with an injury like that, and I am grateful for it. Nothing in life remains constant, which taught me humility. I learnt to let go of perfectionism (a bit) because there is no such thing as perfect. I became more kind and compassionate with myself, which reflected on others, and learned to honor and respect what I feel today regardless of what the situation is.

What does yoga mean to you?

Yoga is not only a physical practice; it is a way of life. It is almost religious in the way that it calls for us to be kind, loving, live in moderation, be honest, forgiving and non-judgmental or harmful. If you begin to apply some of these characteristics into your life, I believe you end up being a better person.

Yoga taught me what it means to actually breathe. It’s amazing how many of us breathe so shallow. Learning to deepen my breath allowed me to connect and bring so much more awareness to my physical and emotional self. Today we live in such a stressful world, people don’t even notice their breathing, let alone how deep it is.

In your opinion, what is appealing to so many people about yoga practice?

I believe one of the main reasons people practice yoga is to begin looking within and slowing down the stressful and noisy world we live in. There are so many different types of yoga, each catering to what someone is looking for. There is no one way or type that is right or fits all. We are each different, with different bodies, needs and circumstances and no one should judge anyone’s practice.

My practice is very personal, and is kind of like praying, how can anyone judge whether someone is praying right or wrong? There is no right or wrong type of yoga. I believe it’s about connecting from the heart, breathing, being present and communicating in your own way in your practice.

What are your thoughts on the commercialization of yoga and the social media culture around it? 

I believe people have a choice in what they want to see and what they don’t want to see. If they feel someone is commercializing yoga practice and it bothers them, they can just unfriend or unfollow the account and move on instead of being judgmental and critical. What might be commercialization for one person might be inspirational to another.

People are in different places in their practice, or like different things, or have different views and we just have to learn to accept and respect each other’s opinions. I think it’s important for people to know yoga is for everyone – no matter how old, inflexible, fit, weight or size you are.

Anyone can practice yoga. You can’t compare someone that’s been practicing for years to someone who is just starting. So people should not get discouraged upon seeing others doing advanced poses or practices on social media. Find a practice that works for you and move at your own pace. There are times I struggle to stand on my mat and struggle in my own yoga practice. I have my phases of doubt, being down, unsettled and being all over the place because that is how life works. What is reflected in pictures and social media is one side, and usually the good looking one, but we all have times of struggle no matter what might be actually reflected.

What are some good tips for people to get the most benefit out of their yoga practice?

In order to get the most benefit out of yoga practice, the person must have discipline and be consistent in their practice. To really reap the benefits of yoga, you must practice at least 2 to 3 times a week, or on a daily basis even if it is for 30 minutes. As Pattabhi Jois would say “Practice, practice and all is coming”.

I would like people not to get discouraged when they first start, as it may seem overwhelming for some, but you will get used to it. People may be under the impression that they have to be flexible or fit to practice yoga, but anyone can practice yoga. I always advise people to try different types of yoga and different teachers to find the instructor and type of yoga that resonates with them.

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You can contact Hibbah via Facebook for more information and class schedules: www.facebook.com/VinyasaYogaFlow

Bliss Spa: Tranquility in Maadi

Considering the stress one has to battle on a daily basis, it is no wonder spas and massage services pop up all over town like cafés! Much like a lot of luxuries in life, you don’t really realize how badly you needed a massage until you actually have one. Bliss Spa in Maadi recently renovated and re-launched their venue over the summer and we decided to check out the new space.

Tucked away on a quiet side street in Maadi, Bliss Spa is located on the premises of Community Services Association (CSA) –  a leisure meeting point for Cairo expats and socialites. So when you book your appointment at Bliss Spa, you also get an additional bonus of having the ability to stroll and enjoy the many shops and offerings found on CSA’s premises – gym, trinkets, clothing, coffee, eateries, health services and even a supermarket.

Immediately upon entry, my friend and I were greeted warmly by the receptionist and shown around the cozy and ambient spa. There is a small waiting area, three large massage rooms and a steam room on-site. The expert technicians are mostly foreign, but are very welcoming and polite. I opted for the Deep Tissue massage, while my friend chose the Thai massage.

For starters, the massage rooms are massive, bigger than any I have seen, and spotless. Warm wooden furnishings fill the space, and the low lighting is very peaceful. After settling in on the table, the masseuse began by expertly rubbing my back, thoroughly working through all the knots and tense muscles – checking throughout on the pressure applied and working diligently on problem areas. I especially liked the use of arms in a rolling pin sensation, I imagine this is great for ridding yourself of annoying cellulite – but of course, I am not an expert. Another amazing touch was the great stretch every limb in my body was given, especially my feet. After nearly 90 minutes of pure pampering, I capped off the massage with a few minutes in the stream room, working the oil into my skin for added benefit. Moroccan Baths and Body Scrubs are also available, which sounded enticing.

My friend’s Thai massage was also divine. With this massage, the target is to loosen the muscles through a series of stretches and then massage each part. The masseuse worked through my friend’s entire body, stretching and massaging her body with a deft but soft touch. She was very knowledgeable, checking pressure as she went along, and focusing on problem areas. The draw of Bliss Spa is not only the large and inviting rooms, but also the courteous and professional staff. Their Bath & Beauty packages are also affordable and make for great gift certificate items, such as the Body Polish Package (Steam, Body Scrub, and 1-hour Aromatic Massage) or the Moroccan Package (Steam, Moroccan Bath, and 1-hour Relaxing Massage). There are also facial services, makeup services and packages available for booking 24 hours in advance.

If you’re looking for a cozy space without the insane amount of foot traffic a lot of other venues have, Bliss Spa is an intimate and relatively affordable option that is easily accessible.


Villa 4, Road 21 – Maadi, Cairo
Tel: 010 688 28 538
Email: bliss@livinginegypt.org
Website: bliss.livinginegypt.org

 

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