Out and About STYLE Mag Vol. 2 Issue 1

Production: Dubai People Special for Out and About STYLE Magazine Photographer: Nassyrova Anastassiya Location: The Penthouse Dubai, Five Palm, Jumeirah.

11. HOW DID YOU HELP YOURSELF TO BE POPULAR? I started a business in another city and entered the business market faster so that more people would recognise me. Then I decided to print myself on the cover of my magazine. Yes, it might not be modest, but it really paid off! A lot of people recognised me in a month. I even received a prize: Business Breakthrough of the Year in Crimea. I worked a lot on my projects, and the magazine helped me to become more popular, which is very important in the media business. 12. IF YOU WILL BE PUBLISHING A BOOK, WHAT WILL IT BE? It would be a storybook compiled from the history of people from different corners of the planet. I would also love to publish psychological books as well. 13. HOW DO YOU SET YOUR GOALS TO ACHIEVE SUCCESS? I believe that I am getting closer to success every day. I work 24/ 7. More precisely, I constantly think. I have a law for myself: the weekends should always be my day off. It is important to set goals and achieve them. Talk less, do more! 14. WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU GIVE TO THE PEOPLE WHO WANT TO START THEIR OWN BUSINESS? The advice is simple—it’s not easy in Dubai. There is a large flow of new entrepreneurs, new ideas and events. Continuously working can help you to achieve something. In Dubai, recommendations are important for businesses and I really like it. Make one client happy, and they will bring you five more clients. You need the right social circle. If you decide to open a business, then write to me, we will help. 15. WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL MOTTO? My motto in life is there is no limit to perfection. Personal development above all! 16. WHAT ARE YOUR DESIRES IN LIFE? I have two children and a happy family. I’m on the Forbes list. I also know two foreign languages. I recorded my third music album, and I learned how to pilot a plane. Of course, I still want to achieve more in life.

Production: Dubai People Special for Out and About STYLE Magazine Photographer: Nassyrova Anastassiya Location: The Penthouse Dubai, Five Palm, Jumeirah.

Production: Dubai People Special for Out and About STYLE Magazine Photographer: Nassyrova Anastassiya Location: The Penthouse Dubai, Five Palm, Jumeirah.

LESTASKOINNGS M H.E. AMBASSADOR HJAYCEELYN AURORA QUINTANA PHILIPPINE AMBASSADOR TO THE UAE

1. TELL US A BIT ABOUT are making a living in this region, YOURSELF AND YOUR and I thought I would have an CAREER. opportunity to change some I’m a career diplomat. I’ve perspectives and policies. This been with the Ministry to be an way, I think there would be a real ambassador, which by experience change in how we do things, as would take at least 20 years to well as how we relate with other become eligible. In the Philippines, countries. The Foreign Service Act is the law that regulates the career ladder of 2. WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO foreign service officers. BECOME AN AMBASSADOR? It’s a long-term career in the How did I end up here? I wanted government. There are levels to to pick a government career where pass through to rise up the ladder, I can make a difference. After and mostly it is a tough experience. graduating from the university, I One has to have a lot of patience. cannot imagine myself being in the Shortcuts are rare. It’s a commitment private sector. I thought that I must when you tell yourself that this is use the gifts and talents God has the career you want to have. There given me for a greater purpose. are a lot of factors to becoming an ambassador, including political and As a diplomat, I have been personal ones. assigned to four postings before serving as Ambassador to the 3. HOW DOES A CAREER IN UAE. The first post I was assigned AMBASSADORSHIP START? to was the Philippine Embassy in The Foreign Service Act of the Beijing. Then I was assigned to Philippines mandates that all Washington, DC. I was also posted aspiring diplomats should take and to Ireland when the Philippines pass the Foreign Service Officer opened an embassy there. After examination, which is one of the that, I was appointed to Oman. most difficult professional qualifying After two and a half years in Oman, examinations in our country. I thought I had just barely scratched Everything about the career leading the surface, and if I continue, I to the position of ambassador can will be learning more about the be read in the law. The Foreign region. Prior to being appointed to Service designates ranks which the UAE, I was Assistant Secretary correspond to titles. My current rank for Middle East and Africa Affairs is Chief of Mission which qualifies where I covered the region on a me to be an ambassador. policy level. 4. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY Today, I am serving as Philippine HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST Ambassador to the UAE, which is CAREER ACHIEVEMENT SO my first ambassadorship. Having FAR? been appointed by the President I’m not too conscious about my rank. as an ambassador to this country I’m more conscious about making a is a great honour. This is a dynamic difference. Career achievement will region, I know that serving in the eventually follow because the title UAE is important especially since gives you a platform. I have many compatriots who

For some, a career in ambassadorship 6. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST might easily be taken for granted because CHALLENGE YOU’VE FACED one doesn’t get a chance to stay long in SINCE BECOMING AN the country of assignment. In our case, AMBASSADOR, AND HOW DID we are away from home for six years, and YOU OVERCOME THIS? those six years might mean staying and The Filipino community is one of the getting assigned to different countries or biggest expat groups in the UAE so it is a regions. You have to make those years bit challenging in terms of balancing the count to serve wholeheartedly and with different expectations of people. I try to integrity. be creative in doing my job, and provide a breath of fresh air. 5. WHAT DOES THE ROLE OF THE PHILIPPINE AMBASSADOR TO The environment, culture, and THE UAE ENTAIL? perspectives here are different from my As ambassador, our main job is to act as country’s so some adjustments may be a bridge between the two governments. necessary. You need a sincere heart to An ambassador also engages in engage the people in your host country public diplomacy, which means that I and serve the country you represent, as communicate with people from different this will help you overcome the challenges. sectors of society. Strictly speaking, I’m the representative of the President of the 7. WHAT ADVICE WOULD Philippines. YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE INTERESTED IN BECOMING AN I am also an advocate in the sense AMBASSADOR? that I want to expand and nurture the Those who aspire to be ambassadors relationship of the Philippines with my need to understand the other side of host country. Incidentally, this year is this career, the less glamorous side, shall the 40th anniversary of our diplomatic I say. The number one piece of advice is relations with the UAE. Planning for to possess a genuine love of one’s own diplomatic activities should require a country. It’s a long journey. Even if you’re study or analysis of the countries’ relations able to enter the Foreign Service, being over the years. What is our level now? appointed as an ambassador is not a What’s the stage of the relationship? Is it guarantee. Dedication is another key maturing? Is it ready for the next phase? ingredient. Do we expand our engagement, or are we just going to concentrate on existing 8. IF YOU WERE NOT A areas? REPRESENTATIVE OF THE EMBASSY, WOULD THE PHILIPPINES BE It’s important that I don’t only represent AN ATTRACTIVE TOURISM my own country’s perspective but also DESTINATION FOR YOU AND WHY? respect the perspective of the host We all have different travel preferences. It country. When I engage with them, I can depends on which country you’re coming assess that we are now ready for the next from, as well as your budget and your goals. stage. We can build upon the very strong relationship that was developed over The Philippines is known for its spectacular the years. I would say the experience of diving spots and marvelous beaches. But serving as an ambassador is unique in do you know what sets us apart from other every country.

countries? Filipinos are widely known to be warm- hearted, humble and hospitable. Pinoys will welcome you with their genuine smiles, and our hospitality turns every tourist’s trip into an even more enjoyable stay. We will take care of tourists with utmost care. That’s why a trip to the Philippines is almost always a wonderful, unforgettable experience. 9. HOW DO YOU ENGAGE WITH OTHER COMMUNITIES IN THE UAE? You will not run out of ideas, options, and opportunities. They’re very engaging here, and it’s a very open relationship. You feel the openness because of the presence of diverse nationalities. You’re not really just dealing with one set of people, it’s almost like the whole world. The challenge is more on getting to know the locals. That’s why I like to visit places like heritage villages to get a chance to meet the local population. It’s a multicultural environment here, and the atmosphere is cosmopolitan. If you cannot speak Arabic, you can still communicate with the locals. Emiratis are indeed very nice and warm-hearted. 10. WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL GOAL AS AN AMBASSADOR? I am not going to talk about achieving something. I am more focused on the step-by-step process. Nobody else can propel you to the next step but yourself. It’s quite hard to achieve something when you’re not in control of many things. So if there’s something that I need to do that require the help of others and that is not their priority, the challenge is how to make it their priority, too. I have a very close relationship with the Lord. I believe that everything that happens to me, of course, is preordained by Him. I know that He will lead me to people who will help me with the things He wants me to accomplish. It should be a fun process. What will I expect to see here? How different is this country from other countries? When you want to achieve something, you have to study the country. What can I do for this country? What are the concerns of the people I represent here? The fun side is you’ll get a lot of opportunities to interact and solve problems. I want to be visible to everyone. I’m not the armchair type of ambassador. I don’t want to sit in the office all



day. I don’t want that two or three years may pass by with nobody even knowing the Philippine Ambassador or might not hear about the Philippines. It’s a good thing that the ambassador’s car has a flag—I can go around Abu Dhabi displaying my flag proudly. That’s what I like about this career. It doesn’t box you in at all. It may be limiting you to do something because of the rules and regulations, but in the end, there are many opportunities to explore. 11. WHAT IS THAT ONE QUOTE YOU LIVE BY? I can’t think of any quote right now but I like the poem “If” by Rudyard Kipling. It’s about balancing everything in life. There are many things I can and can’t do but still, as I was able to overcome those contradictions, then I’m able to say to myself that all of the years I spent are worth it. I can only do so much. You cannot have the illusion that what you did was monumental. The way we describe it is akin to the existence of an unplanted seed: we only reap the harvest when we plant it.

TALENT POOL Meet the Artist: ALENA VAVILINA av.artcreator www.arts-av.com

1. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. find My name is Alena Vavilina, and I create my art under the balance in our lives. The main AV Art. Soon after I graduated from an academic art purpose of my artwork is not politics or school in Moscow, my art and story started. I decided everyday problems. I believe that the majority to create my own signature style and broke the rules of people need more relaxation, observation, and which I learned in art school. It was a hard path, but finding inner balance. after numerous experiments, my style has been shaped. I’d love to see art collectors and enthusiasts enjoy my My artworks of nature have been drawn in my own artworks at numerous exhibitions worldwide. mixed media style with the influence of Asian, which is mainly Chinese art, and a minimalistic approach. I think my career developed quite fast. I started Chinese philosophy has a great impact on my art. exhibiting in Moscow as a teenager, and since then, I have been invited to numerous important contemporary 5. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR art events such as Miami Art Basel, Carrousel du Louvre ARTWORK? in Paris, Art Expo Malaysia, Asia Contemporary Art show in Hong Kong, World Art Dubai and so on. I have been As I mentioned earlier, I have a mixed media style on selected among numerous Russian artists to present at paper and canvas. I always use a minimum of three the Russian Federation Embassy at Art Expo Malaysia media in a painting. Moreover, gold leaf and silver leaf in 2018. Currently, I have a long list of solo and group are my favourite media. exhibitions in galleries around the world. My artworks and sculptures have been shown in countries such as I do have paintings where I used red wine (No France, Belgium, Macedonia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, boundaries, Collection 4 and 3), which is absorbed in the UAE, and Russia. I am still exploring other countries paper and left incredibly beautiful dark red spots. where I can introduce my artworks. In my latest artworks on canvas such as Cherry Blossom, 2. WHEN AND HOW DID YOU DISCOVER Red Balloon and Elephant, I used artificial fur and wire YOUR ARTISTIC TALENTS? along with silver leaves and acrylic paint. I like the mixed media approach as it makes the paintings more I’ve been fascinated with drawing since my childhood interesting and sophisticated; it attracts viewers to years. My first Art teacher was my father. He taught me spend more time investigating every centimetre of the how to use watercolour and draw still life. I still keep artwork. The same mixed media concept is what I also my first watercolour artworks. I attended different art use in sculptures. For example, my collection of Ocean classes and completed five years of academic art school Drops and Ocean Drops Little are done from cement in Moscow, where I got all the classic skills of drawing. and gypsum; the wings are metallic, and the body of the As soon as I graduated, I became a full-time artist. sculpture is covered with acrylic paint. 3. WHY ART? Authors use words and phrases; it gives them the possibility to write stories about people’s life, express their philosophical thoughts, describe imaginary situations and use their fantasies. I always say artists are writers who write their stories using paint, paper and other media. It is one of the ways to deliver messages to the public and to tell your story. 4. WHAT THEMES DO YOU PURSUE? The main idea of my artworks and sculptures revolves around nature. I ask the viewers to stop and have a break in their busy, everyday lives. I invite them to appreciate and pay attention to nature which surrounds us, helping to

6. WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING me. For example, one AN ARTIST? of my artworks was inspired by a cup of tea. I was pouring black tea in a cup, and it left a few I would say being an artist is not a job; it’s a lifestyle. You bubbles on the surface of the tea. I found it interesting, are absolutely dedicating all your life to art. and I took it as a subject or main element for my artwork. Definitely, nature is one of the biggest sources 7. HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN A PIECE OF of inspiration. ARTWORK IS DONE? 10. BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR? It’s the hardest part for most artists, as far as I know. I My biggest achievement is quick career development would say it is an inner sense which tells you to stop. and recognition by numerous art curators of international Sometimes, I take a day off to have a rest from painting a galleries. The Butterflies series brought about my 2018 particular artwork and then looking at it from a different award. The most recent development is an invitation angle. If I am happy about what I see, I stop working on to an art exhibition held in Florence, Italy, known as it. Florence Biennale, or the Biennale Internazionale Dell’Arte Contemporanea. I am honoured to have 8. WHICH ARTISTS ARE YOU MOST been invited by Pasquale Celona, the president of this INFLUENCED BY? exhibition. I love numerous artists from around the world such as 11. DO HABITS HELP (OR HINDER) Gustav Klimt, Takashi Murakami, George Condo, Givi CREATIVITY? Vashakidze—the list can be endless. I have a habit of spending at least two hours a day I appreciate their styles and paintings, but my main drawing, no matter if I’m working on the sketches or approach is not to be influenced by any artist. You may details of paintings. I think this habit is very useful as it end up copying the artist with minor changes, or you pushes me to create more and deliver more artworks to might always be associated with his art and stay in his art enthusiasts. shadow. My target is to be recognised by my own style. 9. WHAT INSPIRES YOUR ARTWORK? It can be absolutely everything that I see or surrounds

12. COMPLETE THIS QUOTE: “EVERY ARTIST……….” Every artist is a mirror which reflects his own world. 13. WHAT IS AN ARTISTIC OUTLOOK ON LIFE? From my point of view, the artistic outlook on life is the perception of beauty and an attempt to reflect that unique perception in his or her art. While I have been travelling and presenting my artworks around the world, I figured out that it’s important to involve more people in the art world as it develops a sense of beauty and harmony. 14. WHERE CAN WE FIND YOUR ARTWORK? My artworks can be found in several galleries around the world which include: International Artists Management (IAM) Gallery in Andaz Capital Gate Hotel, Abu Dhabi; Art WeMe Contemporary Gallery in Kuala Lumpur; Artistery’s Gallery in Vienna; and the art auction at Winzavod Art Gallery in Moscow. Moreover, you can visit my booth at the upcoming big contemporary art exhibition on April 8 — 11 in World Art Dubai, where I’m going to present new sculptures and paintings. For more information about me and my upcoming exhibitions, visit my official website at www.arts-av.com ARTWORK DESCRIPTIONS SIZE 30X20X15 1. OCEAN DROP GYPSUM, METALLIC WIRE WINGS The artist has always been fascinated by the elements of nature and “ocean (water)”, and it has a special place in it. “Ocean drop” is another piece which reveals the contemporary vision of the ocean. It is the soul of the ocean. Such representation of the ocean is based on Japanese culture and believes that each object and nature has a soul (what also vividly can be seen in anime). The sculpture has a shape of water drop in anime style, while eyes and wings are the sign of all living ocean beings.

2. NO BOUNDARIES 3 MEDIA: PAPER, INK, CHARCOAL, WINE, SILVER LEAF, WATERCOLOUR SIZE 76X56 CM SIZE 100 X 65 CM 3. NO BOUNDARIES 4 MEDIA: PAPER, INK, CHARCOAL, WINE, SILVER LEAF, WATERCOLOUR The No boundaries collection is one of the most recent creations of the artist. The presence of butterflies represents the fragility of people’s lives, while the yellow borders symbolise geographical boundaries. The artist is trying to deliver the idea that our lives should not perch on someone’s boundaries. We should find our unique ways and enjoy our individual way of living.

4. THREE BUTTERFLIES, MEDIA: PAPER, INK, WATERCOLOUR, SILVER LEAF SIZE 76X56 CM Butterflies have been drawn in the favourite colour palette of the artist. The effect of transparency represents the fragility of these mystical winged creatures. The artist visualises the sky through silver leaf waves on the left side of the artwork.

5. RED BALLOON MEDIA, CANVAS, ARTIFICIAL FUR, ACRYLIC, SILVER LEAF, METALLIC WIRE SIZE 101 X 152 CM The artist has always been fascinated by the elements of nature, and Red Balloon confirms this fascination. The main inspiration dawned on the artist after observing partially-abandoned gardens in Sicily, and unknown to the artist at first, wildflowers covered the grey walls. Red Balloon is a philosophical rethinking of observing nature. The artist’s admiration with water can be seen through the water drops and little puddles. Water is one of the natural elements that can be observed in perpetuity, while a red balloon symbolises an element of a man-made creation that can only be observed in a fleeting moment.

6. CHERRY BLOSSOM, MEDIA: CANVAS, ARTIFICIAL FUR, ACRYLIC, SILVER LEAF, METALLIC WIRE SIZE 101X152 CM The fall of cherry blossom petals is considered to be one of the most beautiful moments in nature. The artist took the opportunity to show her contemporary vision of the shower of cherry blossoms. Little, fluffy white “Cherry Monster” invites the curious eye to watch the grandeur of summer and stop for a while. He stands by a grey wall that represents our monotonous busy lives.

7. BUBBLES, BLACK COLLECTION, MEDIA: BLACK PAPER, GOLD LEAF, CHARCOAL, ACRYLIC SIZE 100 X 70 CM





LIFESTYLE 5 ESSENTIAL LIFE-CHANGING SKILLS The average day in an individuals’ life is usually centred around a schedule that repeats itself. This ensures comfort, but does it bring satisfaction? Whether one denies or openly agrees, a common afterthought regarding daily life is normally based on how one can improve our lives to maximise the quality of living. Hence, It is important to start learning life-changing skills for a more productive, balanced life.

01 PUBLIC SPEAKING This common source of anxiety afflicts 75% of the population. Public speaking, as daunting as it is, reaps life-long benefits. Take this skill like a muscle, as muscles only develop when they are being used. Putting aside advantages like communication skills to enable the creation of new social connections and leadership skills, public speaking trains one to be an overcomer. When speaking to an audience, a speaker must overcome anxiety and self-doubt and gain confidence in themselves in order for their message to be communicated effectively. A constant overcoming of setbacks allows one to acquire their full potentials and use their flaws in a strengthening manner. 02 FORMING GOOD HABITS This also means that it’s time to get rid of some bad habits. Good and bad habits cannot, and will not coexist. As if this wasn’t hard enough, you will need to be extra patient and disciplined to develop this skill: it has been scientifically proven that on average it takes around 60 - 66 days for a behaviour to develop a habit. Begin by simplifying desired habits and make them easy to complete to encourage consistency. For example, if the desired habit is to develop healthier eating attitudes, one could start with challenging oneself by eating one kind of vegetable per meal. These small habits, in combination with patience and discipline, can grow to become more dominant ones, and eventually turn into bigger goals. Samuel Johnson explains it succinctly: “The chains of habit are too weak to be felt until they are too strong to be broken.” 03 NEGOTIATION Around this point, an individual should be able to understand his or her value and how he or she could make an effective contribution to his social and business circles. Negotiation isn’t merely reaching an agreement: it is about reaching for an advancement that they know they are worthy of. This worth is created through confidence and channelled through good habits. Negotiation thrives on the Don’t Settle mentality. Progress is made when we create win-win situations, all while listening to the participating parties’ needs and motivations. The worst that could happen is rejection, but it’s nothing new, and the best thing to do is to enjoy and learn from the experience.

04 WRITING We live in an age of the hustle and bustle. Our thoughts are mostly exchanged on the surface, and there seems to be no time for thorough expression. A timeless skill that remains to be an essential one is that of writing, which can either be channelled through technical, academic, business or creative writing. Through writing, important ideas and brilliant plans, as well as memories and stories, can be safeguarded and not forgotten. Creative writing enables generations both young and old to be entertained and enthralled by experiences and perspectives in which stories and experiences are told. In a demanding world, one can only store so much in their minds. Writing can take refuge all notable and reflective thoughts, ideas and imagery. The mental decluttering that writing can provide gives an individual a more lucid, sharper mind. Moreover, writing enables one to organise abstract thoughts into more realistic, concrete ideas leading to actionable goals and plans. 05 MEDITATION “Meditation provides a way of learning how to let go. As we sit, the self we’ve been trying to construct and make it into a nice, neat package continues to unravel.” —John Welwood Meditation is gaining more interest as a skill that sharpens one’s mind, leading to a more productive, meaningful life. At first, it can be difficult to get one’s head around the art and science of meditation, but an important aspect of this practice is tapping deeper into the inner being, to watch one’s self unravel. Meditation is a revelation: it reveals ways for one to combat the daily challenges of life through the enhancement of self-awareness. This enhancement can be expressed in other areas such as negotiation and public speaking. Meditations need not be a tedious activity to accomplish. Think of meditation as a temporary escape to refresh. It is important to understand the significance of patience and discipline in the journey to acquire life-changing skills. The modern age seeks urgency and instant results. We, as human beings, need the essential time to learn indispensable skills and healthy coping behaviours to enjoy our lives to the fullest.

THE Social media has severely distorted the way modern DARK society views the real world in the eyes of the youth. TRUTH Comparing one’s body image to airbrushed and heavily- ABOUT edited images of famous personalities has taken a toll EATING on the young. This is triggering an overall reduction DISORDERS in self-confidence and an increase in the feeling of dissatisfaction; social media has played its part in spreading health concerns in the Middle East as well. Cases of eating disorders have risen sharply in the past ten years, and it turns out that the most affected individuals are young teenagers. But what exactly is an eating disorder, and what does it entail? An eating disorder occurs when a person experiences disturbances in their eating patterns, as well as their thoughts and emotions related to food. An individual with an eating disorder will typically be preoccupied with one’s body image and alter their diets excessively in an attempt to change their physical appearance. It is a mental illness marked by distress about eating and an obsession with body weight.

ANOREXIA NERVOSA BULIMIA NERVOSA This disorder is characterised by weight loss, having a Bulimia, unlike anorexia, is harder to spot, distorted body image, and the inability to maintain an as there is little to no weight loss symptom. appropriate weight in relation to age, height, stature. Patients with bulimia suffer from episodes Anorexic people typically restrict the number of calories where they binge-eat or eat fast, and they ingested and the kinds of foods that they eat. You can barely chew or savour the food’s flavour. spot anorexia in your family member when the following These binges are only stopped when interrupted by an external factor, or when symptoms or behaviour patterns appear: their stomachs hurt due to excessive intake • Excessive exercise patterns in a short time. Once a binge is over, the • Skipping meals patient will feel an overwhelming sense of • Cessation of menstrual cycles guilt. This causes them to induce vomiting • Brittle hair and nails or use an enema or diuretic to expel the • Osteoporosis (bone thinning) due to calcium deficiency food they have just eaten. • Dressing in several layers (fees cold/to hide weight loss) This cycle can last several days. Look out for these signs if you suspect someone is suffering from bulimia: • Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals • Smelling of vomit • Inattentive and lethargic • Puffy-looking face and cheeks • L ots of unexplained food wrappers, sudden and regular disappearance of food • Finding food stored in strange places

BINGE EATING DISORDER Though there are quite a few similarities between binge-eating and bulimia, there are some distinct ways to tell them apart. For one, a binge eater will not purge or throw up, whereas a bulimic patient will instantly empty the contents of their stomach. People struggling with binge- eating will eat abnormal amounts of food, often in isolation to avoid embarrassment. They do feel an immense sense of shame and low self-esteem soon after, but they are unable to stop such episodes. Binge-eating will mostly result in obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. PREVALENCE OF EATING DISORDERS A survey conducted in 2012 at the Al Ain University In 2017, the Department of Health Sciences, reported that 1.8% of 900 girls in their teenage College of Natural Health Sciences, Zayed years were anorexic. The demographics suggest University, conducted a study on 315 female females to be the more prominent gender who students aged 14 - 19 in Ajman, UAE. It was struggle with eating disorders. Ages 15 - 25 years discovered that approximately 36% of the are the most affected age groups, but alarmingly, students ran a risk of suffering from eating there is an increase in younger patients as well. disorders. Further analysis revealed that 20.3% of them had binge eating disorder symptoms; This health concern does not spare men. They 4.8% showed signs of bulimia, while 5.4% were may go unnoticed in afflicted men since body at risk of being anorexic. It shouldn’t be a surprise image and weight issues are stigmatised to to us that 49.1% of the teenage girls in the study be ‘female problems’. If you know of any male who were clearly underweight perceived their member of your family or in your circle of friends body image to be normal. who are suffering from an ED, please let them know that they are not alone in dealing with it. The main determinants that aggravate the risk of eating disorders are: • Dieting trend/s in the family • Societal pressure or peer pressure • Social media influence • Family pressure to change the physical image • Stress • Depression • Being bullied at home and/or school Experts warn that eating disorders are serious and potentially life-threatening. Most of the patients delay treatment because they deny admitting that they need help or admit it too late.

Early detection and early diagnosis can help to a great extent in achieving a more favourable outcome. Anyone who goes even five years struggling with any of these disorders with no treatment may suffer from more serious and lasting chronic illnesses. Therefore, there is a need for families to be aware of any red flags that may be a sign of a loved one needing help. Some important Do’s and Don’ts that carers, parents, friends or even siblings can keep in mind are: • Do lend a listening ear but voice your concerns too. • Sufferers of eating disorders do not get better with time. Kids do not “grow out of it”. Do seek help at the first signs of distress. • Do offer as much emotional support as needed. • Don’t be accusatory and threatening. The last thing a child needs to hear is that you will take them to a psychologist if they don’t start eating better. • Don’t wait to ask a professional if you aren’t sure. Always confirm your doubts. There are programs and talks being held in the UAE to emphasise on the importance of healthier dietary habits, especially among Emirati teenagers. Skilled specialists in the UAE provide in-depth treatment plans to address nutrition, therapy and medications tailor-made to suit every individual case of eating disorder. Let us be more open and accepting of this growing health concern. It is important that we become aware of this mental affliction even though we may not be the ones suffering. Assure your young siblings and children that they don’t have to fulfil some unreal expectations of being ‘perfect’. As long as they are thriving and happy, they are perfect.

FINANCIAL Equipping yourself with financial knowledge LITERACY: helps you to make money decisions easier. It’s important to have an understanding of the basic LEARN THESE principles and then make it a priority to increase COMPONENTS your financial knowledge. People who are smart with money are always working on increasing their financial knowledge. Remember that nobody cares more about your money than you do. If money is one of the crucial elements to helping you build the life that you want, getting better at managing money should be one of your priorities. HERE IS A START: A THE BASICS OF BUDGETING Budgeting is the process of maximising your income. Budget entails becoming conscious of how you are deciding to spend your money. A lot of people get to the end of the month and wonder where their money went, as if they have no idea what happened. Budgeting ahead means you get to start the month knowing what’s going to happen to leave you in control of where your money is going. When planning your budget, take into account the income that you actually receive every month. You want to create a budget based on regular or average monthly income. Have a separate way of dealing with your irregular income like commissions, bonus or allowances. This way, you’ll able to allocate money to all the important activities or expenditures without relying on a variable or irregular income.

THE THINGS THAT ARE OFTEN MISSED for medical emergencies or fortuitous events. More OUT OF A BUDGET ARE: importantly, an emergency fund is a liquid asset in the bank that makes you feel secure, that in the • TRAVEL – many people use their savings for event something unexpected happened, you are travel. For most of us, travel is part of our expenses, assured that you have a certain amount that can whether we do it once a year or frequently. keep you for a while. Allocating funds for travel means you can leave your savings account for other future goals. • GIFTS – Birthdays, weddings, births, festivities and other celebrations. Let’s face it: life’s • MISCELLANEOUS EXPENDITURES – expenses celebrations are one of the very few things that that come out every month on bit and bobs, this you will remember in the end. Work out how much and that. It might relate with repairs or unexpected you spend on the average over a year and allocate expenses on the car, the house, or other allowances. a monthly amount to it. Include gifts to yourself There is always something unexpected every month. too! Allocate an amount for these expenses. Also, keep the miscellaneous fund separate from your It is also helpful to create separate bank accounts emergency fund. An emergency fund should be or even envelopes for each of these categories. something that is not that frequently used, perhaps Think of it as a financial filing system. B UNDERSTANDING INTEREST RATES An interest rate is the cost of borrowing or holding money. A bank would pay you a rate of interest on money you hold with them. Even though that money might be sitting in a current account or savings account, it is money that the bank has access to use as a business. Holding your funds in a bank will offer you a rate of interest based on how much you have. Usually, the longer you leave your money with the bank, the higher the rate of interest you are given. A bank account will have a much lower interest rate than a 12-month deposit account. Interest is usually paid back into your account. You will also pay a rate of interest on the money that you borrow. The interest rates are set by banking and lending institutions, as regulated by the national government. The interest rate could be different depending on the purpose and stipulated period of the loan. It’s important to know how interest is calculated, especially on debt, for you to know the total or accumulated money that you need to pay back.

C. PRIORITISING SAVING D ‘Pay yourself first’ is a phrase commonly used by the most successful and wealthiest people on the D. CREDIT-DEBT CYCLE TRAPS planet. It means to consider your savings your most This usually comes down to my first point on how effectively prioritised expense. If you think about it, it actually you have budgeted. When you miss out budgeting for is another expense, but just one that needs to be expenses that don’t come out monthly, it leads to not having paid in the future. By paying yourself first, you are enough money to cover it and so out comes the credit cards. simply being smart by prioritising what usually are You hope to pay it back next month, but by then there is your most important expenses. another expense you need to account for. If you are not able to repay your credit card in full for two consecutive months, To do this easily, you need to focus on your goals then you need to go back to your spending and cut back. It and why they are important to you. Often, we usually means you are spending more than you earn. forget why things are important to us, and so we need reminding. This emotional charge will keep Credit cards are often sold by highlighting the interest at you committed to keeping saving and keeping it between 2 - 4%, but this is the interest rate on a monthly as your first expense. period. Computed on an annual basis, the average interest rate of a credit card in the UAE is 37.5%. It’s also important to break different saving accounts or investment accounts down based on If you are reconsolidating debts, ensure that you commit your timeframe when you will need that money. only to a monthly repayment that is actually affordable. Often, reconsolidation loans are taken out when financially- stressed, and it is easy to fall into the debt trap. Do your numbers before going to the bank and only commit to what’s affordable to pay back. RASHEDAABOUT THE AUTHOR Wellness & Wealth Influencer, experiences have given her expertise KHATUN Motivational Speaker & Presenter with in business, financial and wellness KHAN over 15 years’ experience working empowerment. with businesses and individuals as a financial advisor in corporate In the midst of her success and to banking, leadership and personal everyone’s total surprise, in 2006. development trainer, a debt panellist 26-year-old Rasheda learnt that she for The National and a Kinesiology was riddled with cancer from her Practitioner, Rasheda is known to many diaphragm to the top of her skull - as a wellness & wealth inspiration. chances of survival were slim. Ever Thousands have benefited from since then, Rasheda has avidly worked her work to empower people with to live a better and richer life and to the education, tools and resources teach others the life-changing lessons needed to live a healthy and wealthy she only realised herself after being & meaningful life. She has hosted and diagnosed with cancer. spoken at a number of events and corporate training functions in the Rasheda is a lover of life, a visionary UAE, Qatar, UK, Pakistan, Bangladesh, full of passion, an educator and a India and Singapore. These particular philanthropist at heart.

FOOD 8 EASY OVERNIGHT OATS We all know the goodness of oats for our digestion, heart and overall health. A healthy serving of oatmeal a day can help us reduce our chances of acquiring digestion-related issues. It can also aid in weight loss for its fibre content. Oats are also heart- smart foods that can reduce our risk of cardiovascular diseases. Needless to say, oats is a good addition to our daily diet because of its amazing health benefits. It also works like a broom that sweeps away oil and toxins before flushing them out the body naturally. Lately, overnight oats are gaining the attention of health-conscious individuals. There is no doubt why, though. Oatmeal is easy to prepare and nutritious, containing loads of omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, magnesium, protein and the all-good fibre. Now, if you’re looking for ways on how to include it on your diet for these benefits and more, check out the following for 8 easy overnight oats ideas.

01 OVERNIGHT CHIA OATMEAL You might want to try this easy, quick and healthy breakfast. Double up on your fibre dose for breakfast by combining chia seeds and oats. Throw all your ingredients together before bed, and get it inside the fridge. Morning comes, and your breakfast is ready for serving! Microwave it or eat cold. Make it healthier by throwing in your favourite fruits like berries, nuts or bananas. You can get it yummier, too, by adding some dark chocolate chips. Chia packs fibre and a host of vitamins and minerals that help keep a sexy waistline. This meal is healthy and quick, so try it out! Are you looking for inspiration? Check out this video. 02 FLAXSEED OVERNIGHT OATS It is one of the easiest overnight oats ideas that you can try at home. All you have to do is to toss in all your ingredients in a jar and leave it overnight. You can use chia seeds for this recipe, too. It is a heart-healthy breakfast that you can make even more exciting by adding some soy milk or almond milk, or whatever you have. You can also add in some chopped fruits like bananas and a dash of ground cinnamon for that inviting aroma. For some final additions, you might also want to add in some chopped almond nuts or walnuts. Here is a video for inspiration. Flax seeds, by the way, are loaded with protein, fibre and fats – monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and saturated fat. It is good for cholesterol management and blood pressure control. 03 BLUEBERRIES AND BANANA OVERNIGHT OATS Get your protein, fibre and vitamin dense breakfast even if you don’t have the time to spare. Try the simple and easy recipe that you can do in minutes. All you have to do is to combine all the ingredients in a container and keep it in the fridge overnight. Alternatively, you can have it as a snack instead of breakfast too, but make sure that you leave your oats soaked for at least three hours. Add in some honeycomb yoghurt, bananas and blueberries, and other healthy ingredients you want. As we all know, bananas are dense with fibre, potassium and vitamins and minerals. Adding blueberries in the mix, we also get many antioxidants, which are good for our waistline and heart, too. These antioxidants are also natural anti- ageing solutions. Watch this video for inspiration.

04 CINNAMON BLUEBERRY OVERNIGHT OATS Definitely, this is a powerful duo that can make you healthy and happy! Blueberries are with antioxidants that can reduce your stress levels, while cinnamon can rejuvenate your senses for its enticing aroma. Now, there is no excuse for having a healthy breakfast. This recipe is vegan, and it will help you get started with your day right! Watch this video for an idea. 05 WALNUTS AND BANANA OVERNIGHT OATMEAL Oatmeal is one of the best ways to keep your heart healthy because it can help in flushing toxins out of the body. You can prepare it in a cinch! Before going to bed, you can prepare this healthy breakfast, which you can have in the fridge for an easy and healthy morning meal. It can help jumpstart your day and make you ready for whatever life will throw at you! Oats are loaded with fibre, potassium, folate and omega-3 fatty acids that can help in lowering bad cholesterol while keeping your arteries clear of any blockage. Check out this recipe for inspiration. 06 ACAI OVERNIGHT OATS YOGURT BOWL If you’re looking for a low-calorie breakfast while also supplying your body with the energy it needs, try this acai overnight oats yoghurt bowl. It is healthy, delicious and oh so easy to prepare. This morning meal is packed with protein and fibres just enough to make you feel full for a longer period of time. Throw in all the ingredients in a jar and keep it overnight in the fridge. Watch how easy it is to make this breakfast on this video.

07 GREEK YOGURT PUMPKIN SPICE OVERNIGHT OATS If you miss the flavour of fall, you can have the overnight oats that contain the healthful goodness of protein and fibre at the same time. You might also want to have it if you are trying to lose weight because it is loaded with antioxidants, fibre and protein that can suppress the appetite for a longer time than having refined bread in the morning. Are you looking for recipe inspiration? Go ahead and check out this video. 08 STEEL CUT OATS WITH ALMOND MILK AND HONEY Yummy, filling and nutritious, what else would you want for a perfect breakfast. Get all these and more in this easy and simple oatmeal recipe. Almond milk is low in calories and is dairy-free. It may also help in reducing the risk of heart disease. Honey, on the other hand, is the healthier alternative to sugar. It is also packed with antioxidants that can strengthen your immune system. Try this easy recipe. Watch this video! There you have the eight easy overnight oats that you can try to have for breakfast. They are delicious, healthy and of course, easy to make! Go ahead and plan your week’s morning meals with these delish and quick breakfast or snack ideas.

FOOD MOUTHWATERING CAULIFLOWER DISHES: 10 WAYS! Cauliflower is one of the most versatile veggies around, but not all people like it, admit it or not. Little do they know that there are so many ways to eat this vegetable with a curd-like texture and cabbage-like taste. And aside from its great uses in food preparation, cauliflower also packs a punch in fibre and B-vitamins. It can supply the body with phytonutrients and antioxidants, which may help reduce cancer risk. It also contains fibre that aids in digestion and weight loss. Plus, it is good for kids for its choline that is essential for memory and learning. If you’re among those still doubtful about eating cauliflower, keep reading and be ready to be converted later (from a hater to a fan).

HOW TO EAT CAULIFLOWER IN 10 WAYS 01 SOUP Cauliflower can add a bit of texture to any plain soup. You just want to have it on a cold evening or winter day. Prepare cauliflower with your chosen ingredients to fight the cold and stay warm instead. This veggie is versatile to add to any soup dish for its subtle flavour. There are more than a hundred ways of preparing cauliflower soup. Add a new spin here and there, and come up with a variety of soups to enjoy with cauliflower. One of those is this recipe. Try it now! Plus, you can add it in stews and see how it perfectly blends into the flavour of your dish. 02 PASTA BAKE Cauliflower pasta bake is another easy and simple recipe that you can make with this lovely veggie. If you love macaroni and cheese, you will love this, too! Add it to your favourite pasta dish together with some strips of crispy bacon for added flavour. Alternatively, you can toss in some cauliflower in your fave pasta dish, too! Have it along with a green and healthy salad for a full course meal. Use this video for an easy to follow recipe. 03 CAULIFLOWER RICE This low-carbohydrate recipe is common among dieters that want to reduce their weight or have it managed. They have it as a low-carb alternative to their white rice that they can prepare in 10 minutes. You need a food processor for this recipe to make a base that will be ready for cooking in minutes. Check out this inspiring video on how to make cauliflower rice.

04 CHUTNEYS Do you love piccalilli? If so, you might want to check out this tangy chutney! You can enjoy a slice of bread or cheddar cheese. For better results, you can also use mustard or some turmeric on it, too. Watch this video on how to make cauliflower chutneys. 05 PIZZA If you love pizza, you have to try this dish. It is gluten-free and healthy. To finish it off, you can top it with cheese and other choice vegetables. All you have to do is to season your cauliflower, get it in a moulding pan, and bake it for your pizza base. Get the recipe here. 06 CURRY One suggestion is potato and cauliflower curry. If you love Indian food and want a little twist to the tradition of using meat with potatoes instead, try this recipe that will turn your world upside down. It is a fusion of flavours that your taste buds will never forget. It is a simple dish that you can feed to a crowd of guests. The one-pot meal is loaded with Indian flavours for a different meal that you can serve with naan bread and chutneys, too. Get inspiration on this video.

07 ROASTED CAULIFLOWER Get it spiced or plain salted; it is your choice! Try roasted cauliflower and smell the earthiness that this cooking method can bring out of cauliflower. You can use Middle Eastern spices to make it even more exciting and release cauliflowers nuttiness. This dish is perfect for picnics, sharing and other outdoor activities. Roast these veggies until crispy and caramelised, and then add some parmesan and lemon. So aside from roasted corn to serve on your weekend barbeque party, you can prepare roasted cauliflower for an exciting addition. Grab this recipe here. 08 CHEESE BAKE Yummy and comforting, cheese bake dish is a classic and an all-time favourite among those that just loooove cheese. It is a classic flavour combination that will awaken your senses and keep you coming back for more. Add in broccoli to the mix, and be ready for an explosion of flavours. Add your favourite greens on the side to complete this meal. Here is an inspiring video. 09 VEGAN FRIED CHICKEN Replace your traditional comfort food with this delectable and nutritious cauliflower deep-fried recipe. These croquettes are perfect for parties or afternoon snack. They’re also perfect for sharing and outdoor activities because they’re easy to make and eat, too. Your kids will love it, and they won’t even notice that they’re veggies. Just make sure to get these croquettes golden brown to perfection, creamy inside and crispy outside. Get the recipe in this video.

10 CAKE A cauliflower cake is an impressive and creative way of eating cauliflower. You can have it for a weekend dinner that will surely keep your guests coming back for a second helping. It is healthy that vegans will thank you for it. If you’re looking for inspiration, here is a video for you. Surely, there are more ways than one to prepare cauliflower. You can get creative and mix it with different vegetables for a healthy salad, too. Definitely, it is one of the most versatile vegetables in the kitchen that you can roast, bake and deep- fry, to name some. Nevertheless, cauliflower is nutritious, delicious and cooks easily. You can use it for a wide range of dishes without changing its flavour at all or have it as a pizza base as we’ve mentioned earlier.

FITNESS WORKOUT AT WORK: 7 EXERCISES TO DO AT THE OFFICE Being tied on your chair, sitting at your desk and definitely watching the 9-5 time passes by, it’s your life day by day. Working for 40 hours a week or sometimes, even more, comes the busy season, you find it really hard to sneak a workout into your daily routine. However, there is no excuse to be fit! That’s not for weight management or losing weight alone, but also for improving health, as sitting all day and lacking in movement does no good for your body. So if you want to change this situation and include exercises into your office routine, you can! There are easy and simple work exercises that you and your colleagues can do religiously.

CHECK OUT THE FOLLOWING FOR COOL IDEAS. 1. SEATED LEG RAISES you’re having a bad day. All you have to do is Tone up your legs and abdominal muscles with to raise your fist and get into a boxing position seated leg raises that you can do while sitting (without a sparring partner). Do it away from on a chair or having a meeting. All you need to your computer, and start punching the air. Feel do is to sit upright, and then straighten your left as if you’re punching something frustrating off leg while it remains parallel to the floor. Hold it your life. in place for about 10 seconds. Repeat for your right leg. Imagine that you’re in front of a punching bag while continuing to punch your fist towards it. Do the seated leg raises for 15 repetitions. As Switch your arms, right to left and left to right. you build your strength and progress with this Repeat the same for about 30 seconds. Pause routine, you can add resistance with a briefcase for five seconds, and then start again. Punch for on your legs while doing it. 30 seconds and repeat as many as you can. You can do it alone or with colleagues. 2. CHAIR DIPS Find a chair that won’t be rolling away from 4. STAIR CLIMBING you for this exercise. Now, start scooting up to If you have access to a stair, you can do this the front edge of this chair while putting your climbing exercise with your colleagues come legs out just in front of you. Put your hands on lunchtime. It is a good stress relief because it either of your hip’s side while your fingers are gets your heart pumping oxygenated blood into simultaneously pointing towards the desk. your system. It can keep you energised to last the rest of the day. Get a hold of the chair’s edges with your hands. Then, get your arms and core working to raise Stair climbing is one of the best ways to add your body up off the chair, and start moving cardio into your otherwise sedentary office life. down with your rear-going towards the floor. You can make it better by setting a timer as to Next, push your entire body back up. Do the how many minutes you want to do it. Whether same routine 15 times and 3 cycles with 15 reps you start with three or five minutes, it doesn’t each. matter! It will still be good for you. 3. SHADOWBOXING If you can, you can try to go up and down the Let out your frustrations and stresses with stairs faster through running or brisk walking if shadow boxing! It is fun and stress relieving. You you don’t want to get too sweaty. can schedule to have it done again during the workday. It can strengthen your cardio muscles Get to the stairs and take your exercise to the while also serving as a good stress relief if next level!

5. PUSH-UPS If you want to keep it subtle because you’re Engage some big muscles with push-ups self-conscious, you can still do planks and that can work your deltoids, triceps and work your abdominal muscles. Contract pectorals. Push-ups are great workouts your abs and hold it for about 30 seconds. that can train and build your endurance Repeat for a few times. and stamina, too. Do it with your colleagues during break If you don’t have the massive muscle just time and be healthier and productive! yet to perform it the hard way, you can try the easier push-ups with your desk. What 7. WALL SITS to do is to put both hands on your desk Considered as one of the simplest exercises with your feet walking away from it until you to do in the office with colleagues, wall reach about 45 degrees away from it. Start sitting will work your endurance and the modified push up and repeat as many strength. times as you can to the point of exhaustion for the best results. To do it, stand against the wall with your back on it, and then start sliding it down You and your office colleagues can take while bending your knees. Stop bending advantage of this exercise that you can do when you have your thighs parallel to the in your cubicles during lunchtime. floor. Remain in the position for about 60 seconds. Repeat the same steps a couple 6. PLANKS AND SIDE PLANKS of times as you can. These exercises train the core, one of the fastest routes to functional fitness and full- There is no excuse for being fit! No matter body strength. It builds up your stamina how busy our lives are, we can still sneak without using any equipment but just your in easy and simple exercises into our office body. It trains not just your core but also routine with our colleagues. You don’t your gluteal and back muscles. need an hour or two a day just to work out because it is still healthy for you even if From a regular plank, you can rotate to a you only have a few minutes to spare for it. side plank performed on either side. Make Exercising in the office, you don’t just stay sure to hold each position for 30 seconds. healthy, but you also relieve stress and stay Do at least two sets for the best results. energised. Do these office workouts today!

TRAVEL THE WORLD’S TOP 16 BBREEAATCHTHAKEINSG Concrete jungles are expanding immeasurably; square meters by a week, filling the base of skylines with geometric silhouettes- yes, a man-made world. As it strides in its growth, nature calmly wavers in the background; offering refuge when one seeks to vacate the fissures of consumerism and its fabricated byproducts. This refuge can be found on the fine scattered sands, engulfed sequentially by the colour-varying waters. The bewildering, continuity of the ocean; exuding a breath of higher aesthetic, enjoyed by all at the beach. Here are 15 well-selected beaches from around the world that are worth the visit.

01 JIBEI ISLAND BEACH, TAIWAN 02 Known as the unexplored beach in Taiwan, Jibei 03 is somewhat an untouched part of Taiwan’s western islands. The 1.5 km strip is embraced by calm turquoise waters and due to its secluded positioning tourists travel by boat from a North Sea Tourist Centre to experience the naturally decorative orientation of the island. It is important to heed the fact that the island isn’t unpopulated; it has residents who offer essential commodities and services to travellers. RAUÐASANDUR BEACH, ICELAND Located in a remote part of the Westfjords of Iceland, the Rauðasandur beach is notorious for its red sands which is actually the English translation of its name. The red sand is due to triturated scallop shells, that are only admired by few as the Westfjords are seldom visited. The romance of imagery between the mimicry of desert sands, the Cambridge blue sea and the jagged rocks, all framed by the extensive mountain range is truly a living work of art. PINK SAND BEACH, BARBUDA The pastel pink echoing across the Barbuda sand serves as a worthy landmark and a desirable place to visit. The wondrous pink sand is the result of crushed corals that have been ground into fine sand. Barbuda isn’t as crowded as most Caribbean Islands, and there are many occasions where the 12km Island is without people, so one can have the glorious pink sand to themselves.

PLAYA MANUEL ANTONIO, COSTA RICA 04 Manuel Antonio National Park is a cherished 05 family destination where a variety of rainforest 06 inhabitants can be admired namely; the three- toed sloths and white-faced capuchin monkeys. These marvellous creatures are a few of many inhabitants of the lively forest that fences the beach sands allowing the ultramarine waters to emerge; crashing onto the coastal rainforest. This destination offers an array of activities for all ages like; snorkelling, hiking and zip-lining to name but a few. GANTHEAUME POINT, BROOME, WESTERN AUSTRALIA An expanse of white beach sand adorned with rugged, copper-red rock cliffs given over the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Gantheaume Point is a breathtaking attraction. Not only popular for its photogenic composition but as well as its fascinating landmarks and on-site activities namely; kayaking tours, fishing charters, whale watching, extended cruises, lighthouses and the exhibition of real dinosaur footprints. Whether one wants to spend the day relaxing or swimming or cracking a cold one with friends and family, there is something for everyone at Gantheaume Point. DOLFYNSTRAND, NAMIBIA Whilst being home to the oldest desert on the planet, Dolfystrand is a few minutes from Namibia’s notorious Walvis Bay. What makes this destination unique is its residual seal colonial composition, shipwrecks and boat materials can be spotted on the beach, expelling a romantic ambience as the sunlight touches the ruin. The area is home to a small population who are noted for their sport fishing.

07 TORTUGA BAY, SANTA CRUZ ISLAND, 08 GALÁPAGOS 09 Comprising of black lava rock, ghost-white sand, and gaggles of marine iguanas, Tortuga Bay is the closest one can get to a dream-like experience. It’s 3km out of the main town of Puerto Ayora, and the hike can be sweltering and muggy, but upon arrival, one can be enthralled by sharks patrolling the shallows and crimson-red crabs scurrying across the sands, then to cool off with a bit of a swim among the mangroves. ILE AUX CERFS, MAURITIUS Ile aux Cerfs has become somewhat of a dupe of its own renowned beauty, much of it swamped with conspicuous crowds and bothersome beach pebbles. However, a half a mile hike down the beach and the worthy reward of incredible island sands awaits. HIDDEN BEACH, PALAWAN, PHILIPPINES While It’s not as hidden as before, this beach holds onto its accolade of being one of the world’s best. Palawan is bursting with immaculately delightful sites although Hidden Beach is hemmed in by intruding limestone overhangs and with astonishingly ivory-white sand, it is separated from the turquoise ocean by a small entrance, through which tourists must use in order to gain access to the lagoon.

SEAGRASS BAY, LAUCALA ISLAND, FIJI 10 Laucala is a private-island sanctuary lavished in 11 tropical jungle canopies and accessible through 12 guided walking tours or horseback safaris. The island is a magnificent spot of immeasurable grandeur, home to some of Fiji’s scarcest birds, multitudes of marine life and mesmerising beaches. Seagrass Bay is the most serene and lovely; counter to that adventure and thrill await slightly further the off-shore where one can get up close to the magnificent sea-life in a submersible craft. CHESTERMAN BEACH, VANCOUVER ISLAND, CANADA A natural beauty, Chesterman’s broad expanse of smooth sand – freckled with huge driftwood logs and fringed by a wolf-filled forest – is well-met by devoted surfers and strollers when the tide wanes. It’s overlooked by the fabulous Wickaninnish Inn, an impressive accommodation location and shelter to keep an eye out for passing sea otters when inflated storm clouds progress. PRAIA DO SANCHO, BRAZIL Proudly holding the title of ‘consistently voted one of the world’s best beaches’. Praia do Sancho is also one of the hardest beaches to access- the exclusivity is understandable though. Flights from mainland Brazil take approximately an hour; then one must hike, squeeze through narrow rock tunnels and go down steep ladder steps to be embraced by the golden sands crowned with magnificent palms. There is an environmental tax to be paid to be allowed access, as the area is a National Park. Access to its deserted shoreline, giant hulking iguanas and fish-speckled shallows are worth the effort.

13 MARATHONISI, ZAKYNTHOS, GREECE 14 Affectionately referred to as Turtle Island, the 15 flawless white-sand island of Marathonisi is an essential nesting spot for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles, and so visitors are to stay within five metres of the water to avoid troubling them. Enjoy the pine-scented air before engaging in activities such as; exploring surrounding sea caves by snorkel or boat (equipment isn’t supplied) for all you’ll find is nothing but seals, turtles and forests. DIE PLAAT, WALKER BAY NATURE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA Being neighbours with South Africa’s ‘whale Capital’ Hermanus, Die Plaat is a ruggedly beautiful ribbon of sand bordered by chunky limestone ridges. It isn’t a rare occasion to spot the southern right whale basking offshore or chubby seals slouching on the rocky shoreline; below them, the ground cluttered with large, lustrous ear-shaped shells. Alongside the amazing sights the beach has to offer, there’s history to be acknowledged, as the beach is home to Klipgat Cave, a cavity inhabited by bats and Middle Stone Age people approximately 85 000 years ago. DUNE DU PILAT, FRANCE In the summertime, Europe’s towering sand dune is enveloped in a glistening heat haze, giving the illusion that the Dune Du Pilat is scattered with precious metals. The sand forms peaks, of what resembles finely milled flour, staggering as high as 91.4km. The neighbouring Arcachon Bay extends kilometres of beaches apt for exploring, accompanied with an array of huts where local fishermen set up tables to serve seafood and native delicacies.

16 SEVEN MILE BEACH NEGRIL, JAMAICA The iconic Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica, is the embodiment of the ideal tropical setting. The beach is known for stretching a large distance as well as the variety of activities that one can take part in. The beach holds an original duality in that it caters for a multitude of ambiences; so, whether you’re looking for a rustic and romantic atmosphere or an indulgent luxury impression, Negril has it all.