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Aman Introduces Seasonal, Sociable Italian Dining Concept, Arva

Burhan Abe
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Aman Introduces Seasonal, Sociable Italian Dining Concept, Arva

Continuing its gastronomic evolution and following the successful launch of Nama, a culinary concept based on the Japanese tradition of Washoku earlier this year, Aman is taking strides forward with the launch of Arva. 
Making of Zucca Al Forno

Celebrating the bold flavours and simple ingredients of Italy’s rich culinary heritage, Arva has been conceived by Stefano Artosin, Regional Executive Chef of Amanpuri (Thailand), Amansara (Cambodia) and Amantaka (Laos), and Andrea Torre, recently appointed Executive Chef of Amanyangyun, Aman’s forthcoming property in China. Based on inventive cooking techniques and utilising just a few simple ingredients which take centre stage, Arva launched befittingly at Aman Venice on 1 October, and will be introduced to select Aman destinations over the coming months. Each Arva will offer a warm, convivial and welcoming environment with dishes served family style, paying respect to the roots of Italian culinary traditions.

Chefs Artosin and Torre

Arva embraces the culinary history of Italy which has established a reputation for seasonal and sustainably sourced fare. This style of cuisine draws influence from Italian cooks who concocted dishes solely from what was available in the immediate gardens, forests and seas surrounding them, using their instinctive understanding of flavour and the creativity of necessity to prepare bold, heart-warming dishes that could be shared among family and friends. It is this concept to which Aman pays tribute, both in the name Arva, meaning ‘cultivated land’ in Latin and its philosophy: the shared enjoyment of uncomplicated flavours in a welcoming and congenial atmosphere.

Bavarese Alla Noccio
Fresh Tagliatelle

Recently launched at Aman Venice on 1 October, followed by Amanpuri in Phuket, Amanyangyun in Shanghai, Aman Tokyo, and Aman Sveti Stefan in Montenegro 2018, the approach at each Arva will stay true to its Italian heritage, however each menu will incorporate the finest local ingredients, in keeping with the Aman philosophy of seamless integration with the destination – extracting the best of the surroundings into an unparalleled dining experience, with each restaurant offering their own take on the concept.

Gamber Rossi Di Maz

Arva’s co-creators, Chefs Artosin and Torre, both hail from Italy, and developing the new restaurant concept has been a passion project for them both. Chef Artosin says “For today’s travelers, Arva responds to a growing interest in tradition and provenance, balancing authenticity and sustainability to create dishes that prize flavor and quality above showmanship and theatre, and which are timeless rather than trend-led. Most of all, Arva offers honest, simple dishes which champion the incredible ingredients sourced locally.”

Ingredients of Spoglia Di Pane
Ingredients of Zucca Al Forno

For Aman Venice, and in keeping with the local and familial philosophy of the concept, both chefs have worked with Creative Culinary Consultant for Aman Venice and owner of Michelin-starred D’O restaurant in Milan, Davide Oldani, and built on their relationships with local farmers, fishermen, market traders and niche suppliers to source the freshest Adriatic fish from the waters around Venice, single-source olive oils from Tuscany and Liguria, artisanal pasta, and daily produce from the Rialto market. The result is a considered selection of pastas, risottos, prime meats and seafood, generous sharing dishes, delectable gelati and sorbetti, as well as – in homage to Venice’s globally beloved cicchetti heritage – a wide range of small plates.

Making of Zucotto E Taleggio
Mezzi Pacere

Located adjacent to the hotel’s magnificent ballroom, Arva at Aman Venice features dishes such as chestnut tagliatelle, a hand-made pasta with Chanterelle mushrooms and castelmagno cheese, a red prawn crudo with wild fennel and citronette, and triglia di scoglio, local red mullet with roasted cauliflower and caper leaves.     

Stefano Artosin was raised in Padua, just outside of Venice, where food was a hearty family affair, and wonderful local flavours went hand in hand with a warm and jovial atmosphere. His professional career has taken him to some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens – from St Barths to New York to Sydney and on to Thailand, where he has shaped Amanpuri’s menus for over a decade. He has been immersed in numerous culinary traditions and techniques throughout this period, but Arva is the first opportunity for him to return to the kind of cooking and eating that inspired him in the first place – friendly, familial and uncompromisingly focused on flavour.
Spoglia Di Pane

Born in Rome, Andrea Torre has been an evangelist for sustainable sourcing and a supporter of the Slow Food movement throughout his career, beginning with his time at Alceste al Buongusto, where he oversaw the making of pasta from sourcing raw ingredients to presenting them on the plate. He brought this philosophy to the kitchens of some of London’s most celebrated Italian restaurants, including Zafferano and Cecconi’s, before returning to Italy to work with Michelin-starred Chef David Oldani, as Head Chef de Cuisine of Aman Venice. Although he is now based in Shanghai, masterminding the gastronomic offering at Amanyangyun (opening winter 2017), he is proud to leave his legacy to Aman Venice on the menus of Arva.

Tagliatelle Alle Castagne

Following the introduction of Nama in March, the opening of Arva marks the second gastronomic launch from Aman. Like Nama, Arva will be gradually unveiled at a succession of Aman destinations: merging Italian culinary concepts with Asian ingredients at Amanyangyun and Amanpuri in November; providing an alternative dining option to guests of Aman Tokyo in January 2018, and taking the authentic tastes of Italy across the Adriatic to Aman Sveti Stefan, Montenegro, later in 2018.

Zucca Al Farno

ABOUT AMAN

Aman was founded in 1988 with the vision of building a collection of intimate retreats with the unassuming, warm hospitality of a gracious private residence. The first, Amanpuri (place of peace) in Phuket, Thailand, introduced the concept, and since then, Aman has grown to encompass 31 hotels and resorts located in Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Dominican Republic, France, Greece, Indonesia, India, Italy, Japan, Laos, Montenegro, Morocco, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, the Turks & Caicos Islands, the USA, and Vietnam.

Pool with a View: Dubai’s Most Breath-Taking Swimming Pools

Burhan Abe
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Pool with a View: Dubai’s Most Breath-Taking Swimming Pools
Summersalt Beach Club

Dubai has maintained its strong performance through 2017 and is on track for another record year in terms of tourist volumes, according to the latest data released by Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism). A total of 11.58 million international overnight visitors arrived in Dubai during the first nine months of 2017, reflecting a 7.5 per cent increase over the same period last year, underlining the strength of the emirate’s tourism industry as well as the growing appeal of Dubai as a global tourism destination of choice.

In a city blessed with year-round sunshine and blue skies and where taking a dip is a favourite pastime, it’s good to know that you’re never far from a refreshing swimming pool. From expansive beach club lagoons to lofty rooftop pools, from downtown infinity pools overlooked by skyscrapers to private plunge pools surrounded by desert dunes, there’s no shortage of options. Read on for our pick of Dubai pools with the most breath-taking views.

Summersalt Beach Club

With access to an exclusive white sand beach, a menu inspired by the Spice Route and a view of the majestic Burj Al Arab, this gorgeous spot at Jumeirah Al Naseem is perfect for a lazy day by the pool with friends, family or just you and a book.


La Ville Hotel & Suites – City Walk

Head up to the roof of this five-star boutique hotel in City Walk to enjoy a dip in its striking infinity pool or catch some rays on a sun lounger. Stay to enjoy the sunset views and a drink from poolside venue Look Up.


Anantara The Palm – Palm Jumeirah

Escape to this tranquil beachside retreat on Palm Jumeirah and swim in one of three turquoise lagoons or in the resort’s 50-metre infinity pool overlooking the sparkling Arabian Gulf.


Bab Al Shams

Cool off in one of temperature-controlled swimming pools at this unique oasis in the heart of the desert, and relax as you take in the far- reaching views of the surrounding dunes and landscaped gardens.


The Palace Downtown

This striking pool in the centre of Downtown Dubai boasts stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains. Dive right in or relax in comfort in one of Buhayra Lounge’s arabesque tents on the edge of the water.

Agra Shakes Up Solo Nightlife with a Stylish New Concept @ Alila Solo

Burhan Abe
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Agra Shakes Up Solo Nightlife with a Stylish New Concept @ Alila Solo

Solo nightlife gets a fresh injection of buzz with the launch of a stylish new concept at Agra, Alila Solo’s hip rooftop lounge and bar on the 29th floor, the highest rooftop lounge in all of Central Java.

Open every night from 5.00 pm until 1.00 am, Agra has become a favourite place for enjoying drinks after work, happy hour with friends, or socialising until long after the sun has set. Offering an indoor area with a private dining room, and a spacious outdoor terrace with spectacular city views, it oozes an air of relaxed style and sophistication.

Turning the style quotient up a notch, Agra’s outdoor terrace now features a mural by Yogyakarta mural artist Eddy Sulistyo, infusing the space with an edgy, contemporary aura.

In a meeting of East and West, tradition and modernity, the mural features images of legendary musicians, including two of Solo’s most iconic singers, Waljinah, famous for her signature song ‘Walang Kekek’, and Gesang, who composed ‘Bengawan Solo’. They are drawn alongside international legends like Rod Stewart and The Beatles, capturing Agra’s enthusiastic embrace of all music styles and influences.

Besides the new aesthetics, Agra has also created tantalising new signature food and cocktail menus to reignite the city’s taste buds, along with an exciting weekly schedule of live entertainment, which kicks off at 8pm every night from Tuesday to Sunday.

Patrons can look forward to an evening of live blues music on Tuesday, burgers and DJ beats on Wednesday, and grills with soul grooves on Thursday. The great mix of food, drinks and music continues into the weekend with a soulful chill-out on Friday, deep house electric vibes on Saturday, and Sunday Rock & Ribs, featuring the best smoked ribs in town and a classic rock gig.

Whether gathering with friends, colleagues or that special someone, the refreshed and revitalised Agra at Alila Solo has got all the right vibes for a fabulous night out in Solo.

Behind the Barre in JW Hotels Across Asia-Pacific

Burhan Abe
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Behind the Barre in JW Hotels Across Asia-Pacific

Luxury Hotel Brand and America’s Premier Ballet Company, The Joffrey Ballet, Team Up to Bring On-Demand Barre Classes to Hotel Rooms Around the World

JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with The Joffrey Ballet, launched Behind the Barre, a series of workout videos available on-demand for travelers staying in the brand’s guestrooms, now available at JW hotels across Asia-Pacific.

Behind the Barre on-demand barre classes marks the second time that JW Marriott has partnered with America’s premier ballet company. In 2014, the two companies launched Poise and Grace, an internal training initiative for global associates of the luxury hotel brand. Utilizing the foundations of ballet, the program was created to teach employees to exhibit finesse and gracefulness as part of their daily routines, ultimately resulting in a refined guest experience.

Behind the Barre is the first guest-facing partnership from the two storied brands, highlighting JW Marriott’s commitment to well-being by providing guests with the tools and techniques to maintain a healthy lifestyle no matter where your travels take you.

“Guests of JW Marriott are always seeking new and innovative ways to stay active while on the road,” said Christy Donato, Vice President, Global Brand Management, JW Marriott. “Our partnership with The Joffrey Ballet provides an elevated fitness experience that goes beyond the traditional in-room workout, allowing our guests to tailor their fitness routine to best fit their travel schedule.”

“We’re thrilled to partner once again with JW Marriott on the Behind the Barre video training series,” said Ashley Wheater, Artistic Director of The Joffrey Ballet. “The benefits of ballet go far beyond the barre to promote discipline and self-confidence, and can enhance any fitness plan. We’re honored to continue our partnership with JW Marriott and share Joffrey’s world class training with hotel guests around the world.”

Filmed at the newly opened JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa, the barre videos highlight two of Joffrey’s professional ballet dancers, showcasing fun, challenging workouts that include full-body barre method, core strength and stretching. Designed specifically for a guestroom environment, the workouts allow travelers to enjoy a fitness class workout in a private setting – all at their convenience.

To further underpin JW Marriott’s elevated guest experience and celebrate the global ballet partnership, a ‘Barre-to-Bar’ experiential pop-up will debut in Singapore and regular barre classes will be offered at JW Marriott Singapore South Beach, the brand’s most recent landmark opening in the region. This is the first in a series of JW Marriott Barre-to-Bar pop-ups with more planned for key gateway cities across Asia-Pacific including Shanghai and Seoul in 2018.

The Great Outdoors in Dubai – Hello Winter!

Burhan Abe
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The Great Outdoors in Dubai – Hello Winter!
As the cooler weather makes its way back for the autumn-winter season, Dubai’s outdoor venues come alive, offering something for everyone. Whether you prefer to stay on land or head out to sea, it’s all possible – because in Dubai, even the sky isn’t the limit.
Dubai Garden Glow


Hot Air Ballooning

Dubai is as well known for its stunning vistas as it is for its amazing food, shopping and outdoor adventures, and now that the weather has cooled down, why not take it all in from a different perspective? A hot air balloon ride gives you a bird’s-eye-view of the city’s beautiful landscape at a leisurely pace that allows you to truly enjoy the spectacular scenery, from the city’s skyscrapers to the desert dunes beyond – a trip everyone should take at least once in a lifetime. Many companies offer a take-home video for a souvenir so you can relive the experience in the years to come. Some even serve breakfast beforehand, which is always handy when you’re up at dawn to watch the sunrise.
For more info, CLICK HERE
Wild Wadi

A Day on the Water
The “Old Dubai” area that includes the neighbourhoods on the shores of Dubai Creek is arguably one of the most atmospheric in the city, and there’s no better time to enjoy this than when the weather cools down and you can take your time strolling through its winding streets. Begin your day at Creekside cafe down by the water, where you can munch on classic Emirati dishes with a modern twist (red velvet luqaymat, anyone?) while you watch the boats go by. Craving a little shopping? The souks in the area are a riot of colour and enticing bargains. Afterwards, hop onto a dhow for a trip down the Creek. Alternatively, if contemporary boating is more your thing, then why not fulfil another modern Dubai tradition and hire a yacht for the day? You could spend it enjoying a barbecue and sunshine with your friends while floating around Dubai Marina instead.
Picnic Party
Dubai’s gorgeous winter weather is perfect for enjoying a picnic in one of the city’s many green spaces, such as Safa Park or Zabeel Park. Pack your own food hamper or let someone else take care of things for you, then lay out a blanket and while away the day enjoying nibbles and conversation. Alternatively, head to Ripe Market and sample goodies from one of its many food stands before browsing the stalls of locally- created, handmade brands and wares.
Camel Racing

Camel Racing
While the dazzling horse racing scene in Dubai is better known, camel racing is just as worthy a race experience that’s also closely tied to the local culture. Rise before dawn, head down to the camel race tracks, and join in the excitement as throngs of loyal fans cheer on their favourite racers – some of them even watching from cars that follow the action at speed. Then, when it’s all over, there’s the opportunity to take photos with and pet the camels in a designated area.
For more info, CLICK HERE
Vutheara

Dubai Miracle Garden
The creations in this garden are seemingly miraculous, using flora to construct awe-inspiring pieces of floral art formed into shapes ranging from a peacock to an Emirates airplane. Whether you’re walking under the canopy of rainbow umbrellas or admiring one of the jaw-dropping installations, this place is a riot of colour, and the best part is that it’s all made with living flowers, expertly cared for and beautifully bloomed. There are more than 100 million blooming flowers here, and the Airbus A380 piece has even broken a Guinness World Record.
For more info, CLICK HERE
Miracle Garden

Outdoor Cinema
Catching a film outdoors makes the experience that much more theatrical and memorable. With the winter weather come pleasantly cool evenings, when a variety of venues across the city host regular movie nights, giving you the chance to watch both new and classic films under the starry night sky. You can even enjoy delicious food from top restaurants as well as fresh popcorn and other movie-favourite snacks. The whole experience doesn’t just feel like more of an occasion, it also brings out a wonderfully unifying community feel. You’ll find outdoor cinemas at Wafi’s Pyramids, Reform Social & Grill, and the Steigenberger Hotel’s The Backyard.
Skydiving
In a city that loves adrenaline-fuelled activities as much as it does a relaxing spa day, the option to go skydiving has become one of Dubai’s most popular “must-do” activities among both residents and tourists. During the mild winter, Skydive Dubai’s campuses reopen to offer bold fun-seekers the chance to soar over the desert dunes or the skyscrapers of Dubai Marina, with entire experience recorded for them. Don’t worry – you’ll be accompanied by an experienced instructor, and they even offer courses for more dedicated “jumpers”. This is definitely one for the bucket list!
Aqua Fun
There’s no dearth of water parks in Dubai – and that’s a good thing, considering how much fun they can be, at almost any time of the year. During the cooler months, it’s a great way to spend the day, and there are so many to choose from that you’ll never get bored. Favourites include Wild Wadi and Aquaventure, which both offer a great range of rides, pools and fun for the whole family, while a more recent addition is Legoland Water Park. But if you’re looking for a slightly different and more physically demanding water- based experience, why not try Aqua Fun? Dubai’s first-ever water obstacle course is where you can run, jump and slide over 74 different obstacles, guaranteeing excitement and laughs for all ages.
Legoland Water Park


The Event Calendar

Whether you’re into sports, music, theatre or comedy, there’s an event for everyone to enjoy. Music-lovers will be swaying to the soothing sounds of global pop superstar Ed Sheeran as he performs in Dubai Media City at the end of November. Shortly after, revel in the beats of Party in The Park and the WASLA Festival that celebrates local musical talent, while sports aficionados will delight in obstacle races ranging from the Desert Warrior Challenge and Spartan Race to Tough Mudder. Giggles are always on call at The Laughter Factory, while Dubai’s newest attraction, La Perle, will make jaws drop with its gravity-defying performances. Meanwhile, contemporary ballet comes to Dubai Opera, before December’s endless array of winter holiday festivals, street art events such as Sole DXB, and the World Future Sports Games hit town.

For more info CLICK HERE

Salazón Brings a Multi-Sensory Feast for the Senses to Seminyak

Burhan Abe
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Salazón Brings a Multi-Sensory Feast for the Senses to Seminyak

Salazón is a new, industrial-chic restaurant and bar in Seminyak with an emphasis on wood-fired, cured, smoked and grilled meats and fish. The design is spectacular and would be equally at home in New York, Paris or Sydney. The restaurant’s name refers to the method of salt curing and the various dry-ageing, pickling and fermenting processes on display add to the visual and sensory allure of this unique addition to the lunch and dinner landscape of Bali.

Salazón is the first installment of En Vie Lane, a new lifestyle quarter opening in the heart of Seminyak and home to a number of diverse venues offering fabulous options for dining, sipping, leisure and entertainment.

The beating heart of the experience at Salazón is the 5.8 tons Scotch oven, the wood-fired oven that remains burning 24-hours a day at differing temperatures to produce everything from bread to roasted fish, poultry and meats. The Scotch oven fuels the whole kitchen and was the inspiration for the entire concept. The oven burns three varieties of wood that produces the coals that fuel the grills, the smoker and all the other cooking processes in the kitchen – even the ash is used.

The large, open kitchen has bench-top seating running down its length, encouraging diners to enjoy an immersive visual experience of food preparation process from ordering to eating, whilst feeling the heat from the oven. There is also table seating in the main space as well as more private dining options.

The private dining room provides an enviably lush environment, simple design yet understated opulence. The buzzing and vibrant atmosphere throughout the restaurant encourages guests to linger and enjoy their Salazón experience.

A Complimentary Wellness Membership at Yhi Spa – Gran Melia Jakarta

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A Complimentary Wellness Membership at Yhi Spa – Gran Melia Jakarta

Gran Melia Jakarta has launched a Wellness Membership that gives members exclusive access to the hotel’s 24-hour gym, Spa facilities, and its private outdoor swimming pool, as well as the attractive free classes.

Achieve fitness aspirations at the 24-hour – Wellness center at Gran Melia Jakarta which is designed to facilitate your exercise activity such as high intensity interval training (HIIT), TRX suspension training, build cardiovascular endurance and enhance weight training. A comprehensive range of state-of-the-art technogym fitness equipment including treadmills, elliptical machines, cross trainers, and exercise bikes, add variation to any workout.

The movement studio which is equipped with a boxing bag, yoga mats, resistance bands and gym balls, is ideal for stretching and strength training. Complete your gym routine with the full access to our specific class including Yoga class, Body Rock program or Aerobic classes.

These trial day passes are a free membership across commitment period of any of your 7 days. The membership facilitates you with 24-hour accessibility into the gym and pool access as well as complimentary classes. This pass is the perfect way for you to discover an even better health and fitness experience for you.

For enquiries, please contact (021) 526 8080 ext 2374

A haven of serenity and luxury in the heart of Indonesia’s capital, Gran Meliá Jakarta is an urban oasis nestled in the prime Golden Triangle central business district of Kuningan.

Cutting an elegant figure against Jakarta’s cityscape, Gran Meliá Jakarta is an iconic address for business and leisure travelers, with 407 luxurious guest accommodations, five dining destinations, a spa and wellness sanctuary by Meliá Hotels International’s signature wellness brand, YHI Spa, and renowned hospitality and service.

Inspired by its Spanish heritage, Gran Meliá Jakarta exudes passion for service and pampers guests by going above and beyond. Borne of the brand’s RedGlove service, every attention is paid to the finest detail to ensure the absolute comfort of guests.

Situated in the prestigious district of Kuningan-Jakarta, the fastest growing most exclusive business district, Gran Meliá Jakarta provides easy access to expressways to both domestic and international airports Soekarno-Hatta and Halim Perdana Kusuma.

Gran Meliá Jakarta’s locale offers proximity to the central business district and is a stone’s throw from the city’s premier shopping, dining and entertainment attractions.

Mrs Sippy Makes a Splash in Bali

Burhan Abe
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Mrs Sippy Makes a Splash in Bali

THE ICONIC AUSTRALIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR BRINGS A CHILLED OUT VIBE TO THEIR BALI POOL CLUB

MRS SIPPY – the popular, iconic bar and restaurant in Sydney’s Double Bay – has expanded the brand with a stylish pool club in Bali. A modern oasis, Mrs Sippy Bali has become Seminyak’s newest ‘see and be seen’ venue with a casual and relaxed atmosphere and ample spaces for swimming, sunning and dancing from day to night.

Designed by Akin Creative, Mrs Sippy Bali is a chilled escape from the hustle and bustle of Seminyak. Local stone, timber, brick and custom tile have been used alongside bespoke lights and furniture to create a slightly retro feel with a modern vibe.

The 800m2 saltwater pool and diving platform is the central focus of Mrs Sippy Bali. With soft curves, rendered edges and gentle beach entries, the pool is surrounded by Mediterranean-style architecture, daybeds, cabanas, gardens and shady palm trees, providing a multitude of open and private spaces.

The on-site restaurant and bars feature menus and cocktails that are light, fresh and fun. With an events calendar of parties and international DJ’s, Mrs Sippy Bali is making a splash as the hottest spot on the Bali party scene.

Families are welcome at Mrs Sippy from 10am until 9pm, except for the occasional advertised over-18 event, with plenty of food, drinks and fun options for all comers.

Chef Marco Cueva Brings The Taste of Peru to Bali

Burhan Abe
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Chef Marco Cueva Brings The Taste of Peru to Bali

AYA Restaurant – Street Art Gallery

Chef Marco Cueva is a Peruvian chef with an effervescent love of cooking who is part owner of new restaurant AYA; a temple for the senses, with Peruvian fusion cuisine, international beats and eclectic global street art bringing a new level of modern street culture to the ever-cool Seminyak dining scene in Bali.

Marco Cueva’s culinary journey began in his native Lima, Peru and after graduating from culinary college it was not long before he found himself embarking on the first of many international cooking adventures, from high-end hotels in Costa Rica to his first stint in Bali at the perennial favourite La Favella, before a stint at the Royal Hideaway Playaca Resort in Mexico. But a sense of unfinished business and a desire to bring great Peruvian cuisine made from fresh local ingredients to Bali has seen him return to the Island of the Gods.

“I really love the food in Bali, with such a diverse range of flavors and available fresh ingredients,” said Chef Marco. “I love a lot of spice and by marrying traditional Peruvian recipes with the amazing local ingredients, I am creating dishes with the best of both worlds. Our dishes at AYA are presented in a very creative and ‘fancy’ way, but when you taste them it is like home, like my mother and grandmother would make, or the street vendors in Lima. I want to educate people to the wonderful varieties of flavor in Peruvian cooking, the flavors I grew up with, but with my own modern twist because for me cooking is all about flavor, flavor and more flavor.”

At AYA, Chef Marco brings his love of Peruvian street food alive with the addition of fresh, Balinese produce sourced from local growers that gives an Indonesian twist; from the vegetables, herbs and spices, fish and chicken down to the edible flowers, grown from seeds he gave to the farmers himself. Only the beef is sourced from Australia.

There are influences from the indigenous Inca population and elements introduced by Asian immigrants, with a focus on Peruvian-Japanese (Nikkei) and Peruvian-Chinese (Chifa) fusion. Chef Marco creates a convivial and welcoming atmosphere through food that is casual and designed to be shared. He welcomes interaction with guests and is more than happy to describe the dishes and their provenance from his open kitchen as he creates them. The passion and joy he brings to creating great food is contagious and on display in every aspect of his craft.

“On the menu, we have everything; fish, meat, pasta, rice, saté, teppanyaki,” continued Chef Marco. “I want there to be something for absolutely everybody to enjoy, whether they are locals or tourists and when customers come to AYA they can choose to sit at the bar in front of me in the open kitchen and we can talk about the food and what they like. Then I make it and they are happy!”

A City in Action: Dubai Fitness Challenge

Burhan Abe
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A City in Action: Dubai Fitness Challenge

  • Unprecedented new initiative sees Dubai aiming to be most active city in the world
  • Residents encouraged to champion the movement and commit to 30 minutes of daily activity for 30 days
  • Free workout classes, pop up fitness locations and weekend family fun carnivals taking place across the city

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai Government and Dubai Sports Council today launched the inaugural Dubai Fitness Challenge with the aim of motivating residents to take up physical activity and making Dubai the most active city in the world. This enterprising new Challenge seeks to inspire Dubai’s citizens, residents and visitors to boost their physical activity by committing to a minimum of 30 minutes of daily activity for 30 days through a wide range of fitness activities, sports or exercise.  

HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed said: “Dubai aims to set an example for cities around the world in encouraging citizens to give high importance to physical activity and sports. We are very keen to spread a culture of fitness since we strongly believe that making physical activity and sports a part of their daily routines will help people significantly improve the quality of their lives. The Dubai Fitness Challenge has been designed to motivate people to pursue an active and energetic lifestyle. This complements other initiatives we are pursuing to transform Dubai itself into the world’s happiest city by providing a positive social environment and the conditions for an enriching lifestyle.”  

Running from 20 October to 18 November 2017, the flagship Dubai Fitness Challenge is the Emirate’s only multi-activity, city-wide fitness movement to date. Encompassing all forms of activity – from walking, team sports, intense fitness regimes, paddle-boarding and aerobics to football, yoga, cycling and everything in between – this will be an exciting, action-packed and most importantly personally rewarding month of self-discovery, social interaction and enjoyment for everyone of all ages, abilities and fitness levels.

It will also give participants the opportunity to experiment with new and exciting ways to improve their fitness levels, and experience the wide range of sports and exercise programmes that will be showcased across the city that they may not have tried before.  

Highlights of the initiative include five weekend fitness carnivals starting at Safa Park on 20 and 21 October; celebrity guests, motivational experts and fitness professionals will make motivational appearances at various locations, dedicated events and live entertainment.  

In addition to a packed schedule of daily fitness events, free exercise classes and dedicated community activities in each of Dubai’s neighbourhoods, Dubai Fitness Challenge will also feature a number of existing and highly successful partner events including Dubai Color Run, Dubai Mass Swim and Dubai Schools Fitness Games among others.  

His Highness today challenged all government organisations, public sector and educational institutions to be the drivers of change. He called on them to take the lead in spearheading the fitness movement and urged the private sector to be equal contributors in this Year of Giving by supporting their employees to participate through simple actions like time allocated for exercise.  

HE Helal Saeed Almarri – Director General of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing commented: “With the launch of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, we aim to become the most active city in the world, motivating everyone across all ages, and fitness levels, to start with small steps that will benefit them and their families. With just 30 minutes of physical activity each day for 30 days, we are confident that the city will begin to adopt a healthier and more active lifestyle as a choice for life.”  

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