and bunnies introducing a shopping revolution Souq Planet · 2016. 2. 24. · retail supermarket Souq Planet. A brand new concept in shopping opening its doors to you in the 1st quarter

March 2014 n Issue 18

delicatessef i n e f o o d , t r a v e l a n d l i v i n g

abela

Al Dhafra Camel Festival

Magical Macau

Ask our dietician

SUNDAYMothering

EASTEREGGS and bunnies

introducing a shopping revolution Souq Planet

3


in this [Easter] issue ...

Designed and produced for Abela Supermarkets by Phishface Creative FZ LLC. www.phishface.com - For ad enquiries please call: +971 2 666 8643Written material and imagery contained in this magazine are copyrighted and the sole property of Abela Supermarkets, Phishface Creative FZ LLC.

or ©PHISHFOTOZ and may not be reproduced as a whole or in part without express written permission from the publisher. ©Abela Supermarkets 2011

... a quick word 5a message from Abela

Souq Planet 6a shopping revolution

Easter Treats 9everything chocolate for Easter

Savoury chocolate sensations 14chocolate for main course?

Home made treats for mum 14treat your mum on Mother’s Day

Al Dhafra Camel Festival 16exploring the western region

New products 26our line up of all things new in store

SoRelaxed at SoSpa 28pampering at Sofitel Palm Jumeirah

Magical Macau 30the ex-Portuguese colony revisited

Competitions 40enter to win some fantastic prizes!

Winners 41join us in congratulating the winning shoppers

www.e recommend 42something for all mums

5


... a quick word

Dear readers,

Welcome back to, ‘delicatesse’, our free in-store magazine to complement

your lifestyle, introduce new products, and hopefully entertain.

We are excited to announce the imminent opening of Souq Planet - a unique

new shopping experience in the Western Region. Guaranteed to revolutionise

shopping as you know it ...

Don’t forget to treat your mum to something special on Mothering Sunday

and of course we are looking forward to an ‘eggs’tremely chocolatey visit

from the Easter Bunny this year.

We take a trip to the traditional Al Dhafra Camel Festival in Al Gharbia and

then take you on a tour of the magical city of Macau.

Don’t forget to use your Smart Shopper Card for all your shopping. Collect

points every time you shop and redeem them for shopping vouchers to spend

in-store. It’s simple: shop, earn points, redeem shopping rewards! Pick up

your instant application pack or ask one of our staff for more information.

We would like to hear what you think of delicatesse magazine, so please drop

an email to [email protected] and let us know.

Wishing you a Happy Mother’s Day and Easter Sunday.

Sincerely yours

David Derrick

Retail Division General ManagerAbela Supermarkets

7


experienceshopping

a revolutionary

6


SOUQ PLANET is the very first supermarket in the Middle

East, offering the latest in self-scanning technology. With no

waiting at the check out all customers will experience red

carpet treatment.

No need to unload and reload your groceries at the check

out, saving you time and effort and spending budget under

your control. Your hand-held scanner displays a running total

for all scanned items in your basket as well as information

on current special offers or promotions visible right on your

screen or mobile phone (through our mobile apps).

The self-scanning concept is linked to the Smart Shopper

Loyalty Programme - with free and instant membership, you

simply scan your card, pick up a hand-held scanner and go!

The system totally eliminates possible cashier error to as all

products are scanned by you and placed into your trolley.

Upon entering the Souq Planet store, the difference is

immediately clear. Greeted by our well-trained customer

service team they will explain every step, they can even

escort you around the store to guide you along if you so

wish. There will be an array of printed booklets in Arabic and

English detailing the self-scanning from system as well as

digital screens located throughout the store.

We will even provide you with free coffee to enjoy while you

shop where the coffee cup fits into the specially designed

handles of the shopping trolleys.

We are sure that the new Souq Planet stores will provide a

completely new supermarket shopping experience for you

and we look forward to updating you in the coming issues

of ‘delicatesse’ magazine on confirmed opening dates

of new stores and conversion dates of our existing Abela

supermarkets.

ENJOY YOUR NEW SHOPPING EXPERIENCE WITH SOUQ PLANET

TAKING SUPERMARKET SHOPPING TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL!

3 easy steps to shoppingScan, pack and go!

Apply for your free and instant Souq Planet Smart Shopper Card

membership, scan and go!

It is with immense pride and excitement that we announce the launch of our new retail supermarket Souq Planet. A brand new concept in shopping opening its doors to you in the 1st quarter of 2014.

Scan your products and pack them straight into your shopping bag, so quick, easy and fun!

Use the in store self-scanners or download the SOUQ PLANET APP and shop on your own mobile device.

1) USING THE HAND-HELD SCANNER

• Take a trolley and proceed to the hand-held scannerlocation. Present your Smart Shopper Card to the scanner.

• Chooseanavailablehand-heldscannerindicatedwithalight. Place the scanner in the cradle on your trolley.

2) SCAN

• Pointthescanneratthebarcodeontheitemsyouwishto buy and press the yellow button. Pack your shopping immediately or alternatively just put your shopping into the trolley and our staff will assist you at the checkout.

3) FINISH

• Whenyouhavefinishedyourshoppingjustproceedtothe self-scan cashier point and hand your scanner to the cashier who will complete your purchase.

This card is no

t a credit card,

debit card or a

ny card

associated with

banking transact

ions. It may be us

ed only in

Souq Planet supe

rmarkets and is

subject to cance

llation by

National Caterin

g Co. Manageme

nt.

If found, please

return this car

d to Souq Plane

t, PO Box 44626

, Abu Dhabi, UA

E

BARCODE

GUIDE

treatseaster

Check out our range of delicious chocolate goodies ...


9

LowSodium

easter!‘egg’citing

treatsChocolate treats for

the whole family! We’re sure there’s something for you!

10


11


10

CADbury’S From bunnies, egg ‘n’ spoons or buttons to the classic fondant creme-filled chocolate egg, luscious

caramel minis or Flake, there’s one for you. And who can

resist the delicious crispy shell of the mini egg? Fancy a

bit of crispy caramel? Then the mini Daim might be just for

you. NEStlé Always a favourite, Smarties can be found

inside big chocolate eggs, in the Hen House or inside the

hen itself! Smarties mini eggs are also just as tasty and

colourful! And for grown ups, there’s always Rolo, Quality

St., After Eight or Munchies insiders. Delicious milk or

dark chocolate eggs filled with your favourite grown up

treat! And don’t forget the Milky Bar Kid! Enjoy mini eggs

or a scrumptious white chocolate egg. tErry’S Tap it, unwrap it ... the classic chocolate orange! Orange flavoured

chocolate segments to share or devour all to yourself.

KINNErtON All your favourite characters turned into chocolate treats with fantastic mugs ... Avengers, Furby,

Hello Kitty, The Simpsons, Turtles and even Skylanders -

don’t miss your chance to pick up some Easter chocolate

treats for the whole family at Abela ... before it’s all gone!

13


chocolatesensations

savoury

12


Crazy for chocolateadd this versatile ingredient to more than just cookies

When we think about chocolate, we almost always think

of desserts. But chocolate, in its raw form, is anything but

sweet. And utilising it as a savoury ingredient is anything but

new. Over 2,000 years ago, before it was ever combined with

sugar to make the confection we’re most familiar with today,

the Aztecs and Mayans consumed chocolate in the form of

a thick, bitter drink. Cacao beans were fermented, roasted,

and then mixed with water and spices to make xocoatl, from

which chocolate originally got its name. Chocolate has been,

and can be, more than just a candy or dessert.

Incorporating chocolate into your dinner meal isn’t as

challenging as you’d imagine. Plenty of savoury foods have a

natural affinity for cocoa-based flavours. Consider the classic

pairing of chocolate with spices and chilies in a Mexican mole

sauce. Or take gamey meats like lamb and venison, which

marry well with cocoa-driven richness. The bitter notes in

dark chocolate work to highlight hidden flavours and add

depth to a dish that was otherwise missing something.

There are hundreds upon hundreds of recipes out there,

some may sound positively peculiar, but one thing’s for sure,

nearly all will pleasantly surprise! Feel free to be adventurous

with chocolate at the dinner table, but be careful. A little goes

a long way. You don’t want to be able to identify it as a main

ingredient. Instead, you want the chocolate to complement

existing textures and flavours. It helps to think of it as an

ordinary ingredient like butter or cumin. Allow it to become a

culinary tool rather than take a starring role.

Try the Middle Eastern Classic - White Chocolate Baba

Ghannouj. This delicious meal is really rather indulgent with

the creamy eggplant and delectable spices - all of which go

extremely well with white Chocolate. Traditionally smoky, the

white Chocolate lends a lush sweetness that cuts through

that strong flavour - and is simply enhanced when you top

with some pomegranate seeds too - yum.

WHItE CHOCOlAtE bAbA GHANNOuJIngredients [8 cloves garlic, unpeeled, 4 medium

eggplants, sliced in half lengthwise, 1/3 cup fresh lemon

juice, 2/3 cup tahini, 4 oz. white chocolate, melted and

cooled, 2 Tbsp finely chopped parsley, 1½ tsp. ground

cumin, 1½ tsp. paprika, salt and freshly ground black

pepper. Pomegranate seeds, for garnish. Toasted pita

bread, for serving]

METHOD: Heat oven broiler on high. Place garlic and

eggplants, skin side up, on a foil-lined baking sheet; broil

until tender and charred all over, about 20 minutes for

garlic, and about 40 minutes for eggplant. Peel garlic

and peel, seed eggplants, and scoop out flesh from

eggplant; transfer to a food processor with juice, tahini,

chocolate, half the parsley, the cumin, paprika, salt, and

pepper; puree until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish

and garnish with remaining parsley and pomegranate

seeds; serve with pita on the side for dipping.

DELICATESSE RECOMMENDS!

When we think about chocolate, we almost always think of desserts. But chocolate, in its raw form, is anything but sweet.

Treat your mum ...delight your mum with a home made treat

What would any mum love more than some home made

sweet treats? It’s always the thought that really counts, so

why not make a little more effort this Mother’s Day (Sunday

30th March if you need reminding ...) and make your mum

something delicious.

CuP CAKESGet baking and make some

chocolate or vanilla buns. Get

creative with a swirl of coloured

buttercream icing and a sprinkle

of your mum’s favourite topping.

Or instead of real flowers, make

an icing flower top to each cup

cake. A whole bouquet she can

eat too!

HEArt brOWNIESMake some chewy and gooey chocolate brownies to give

your mum something to smile about. She will love the rich

chocolate taste and the heart-shaped sentiment on top!

(Follow the easy recipe opposite)

brEAKFASt PAStrIESMaking your own croissants is not difficult; there’s no special

equipment or hard-to-find ingredients required. Once you

understand the basics of creating multilayered dough with

good technique, you’re well on your way to wowing your

mum with delicious croissants. (Alternatively you could

always buy the refrigerated dough and bake fresh to go with

the breakfast in bed you are making your mum). Add some

fresh coffee and fruit and you will truly make her day.

CAKE & FlOWErSMake your mum an individual single portion cake, and ice

it with your message on top ... accompany it with a fresh

bunch of tulips or your mum’s favourite flower and you are

guaranteed to make her day. 15

March 2014 n Issue 18March 2014 n Issue 18

14

CHEWy, GOOEy brOWNIESMakes 24 brownies in 50 minutes

Ingredients: [1/3 cup Dutch-processed cocoa, 1½ tsps

instant espresso (optional), ½ cup plus 2 Tbsp boiling

water, 2oz unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped, 4

tsps (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted, ½ cup plus 2 Tbsp

vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 2 large egg yolks, 2 tsps

vanilla extract, 2½ cups sugar, 1¾ cup all-purpose flour

¾ teaspoon salt, 6oz bittersweet chocolate, cut into

½-inch pieces]

METHOD: Heat oven to 175°C. Line a 9x13-inch

baking pan with foil, leaving one-inch overhang. Spray

with nonstick cooking spray. Whisk cocoa, espresso

powder, and boiling water in a large bowl until smooth.

Add unsweetened chocolate and whisk until chocolate

is melted. Whisk in melted butter and oil. (Mixture may

look curdled.) Add eggs, yolks, and vanilla and whisk

until smooth. Whisk in sugar. Add flour and salt and mix

with a wooden spoon until combined. Fold in bittersweet

chocolate. Scrape batter with a rubber spatula into

prepared pan and bake on lowest shelf until toothpick

comes out with just a few moist crumbs, 30 to 35 mins.

Transfer to wire rack and cool

1½ hour. Lift brownies from

pan and return to rack and

let cool completely. Cut into

2-inch squares and dust with

icing sugar over a heart shaped

template (Cut from a piece of

card). Brownies can be stored

in an airtight container at room

temperature for up to 4 days.

But will they last that long??

DELICATESSE RECIPE!


17

al dhafra

festivalcamel


16

With the objective of preserving purebred camels and

Bedouin culture, the Al Dhafra camel festival is also a place

where you can experience true Arabian hospitality, be

welcomed by locals and educated on all matters camel.

words and pictures Louise Adamson

18


19

January 2014 n Issue 17

Inspired by the Emirati culture and heritage, the 1st edition

of Al Dhafra Festival was first organised in April in 2008. Now

into its 7th edition, the festival attracts entrants from all over

the Middle East to participate in its range of highly-prized and

fascinating competitions.

It certainly is like stepping back in time here. With 1500

participants and nearly 25,000 camels sprawling over a vast

area of desert, you are assured to be caught up in this unique

and exciting experience. Soon after you exit the highway,

leaving civilisation behind, you’ll find hundreds of traditional

Bedouin camps blanketing the dunes, grouped by country or

tribe and surrounded by hundreds of national flags fluttering

wildly in the desert winds. Wide sandy stretches of road are

filled with groups of slowly crawling Patrols and Landcruisers

jammed with families escorting their prize specimens from

the stadium back to camp - showing her off along the way.

And it’s almost as if these camels know they have bagged the

top prize, heads high and proud languishing in the attention

showered upon them. Loudspeakers blast Arabian melodies,

cars honk, people dance and sing and the beauty pageant

winners continue their slow and ambling plod calmly unaffected

along the sand.

Mazayna, the camel beauty contest, is one of the most

authentic traditions in the region and it reflects the feelings of

pride and prestige the nationals have for their heritage. The

Festival aims to preserve the pure-bred local Asayel (white)

and Majahim (black) camels, promoting the Bedouin culture

and stimulating the heritage scene - and with over AED 46

million and almost 200 cars up for grabs there’s also quite an

incentive to do so.

Up to 12 events take place over two weeks - amongst them of

course is the camel beauty contest.

Here you will find a giant stadium overlooking pens filled with

freshly shampooed camels where they are paraded in front

of the judges and the whistling, jeering crowd (apparently

encouraging their camel entries to behave obediently and

‘perform’ well). The discerning set of judges assess every

single one, taking into account the characteristics of each to

determine the most beautiful specimen.

The most beautiful are selected according to the highest

known authentic standards that guarantee unrivalled beauty.

These include the shape of the nose, the size of the head,

the straightness of the legs, the length and the posture of the

neck, the shape and the position of the hump, the firmness

of the ears, the obedience, and other characteristics that

establish no other camel can be more beautiful.

I was genuinely surprised at the care attention given to these

creatures and to find that being up close and personal with

one of these particular camels bore no resemblance to any

previous experience I had had. These pampered animals were

fresh and clean, and almost certainly smelled better than I did

after my night camping in the desert.

Al Dhafra serves as a link between generations and an

essential occasion to revive and immortalise heritage in the

collective memory and strengthen the national feeling in hearts

of younger generations.

“During his trip to the desert areas of Al Gharbia (the Western

Region) in Abu Dhabi, at the time when the UAE was just being

established, Viscount Martin Buckmaster was interested in

observing the lifestyle changes that had occurred amongst the

population at the time. What he saw contradicted the common

stereotype that had prevailed about the traditional life of

Bedouins. The stereotype predicted that this Bedouin lifestyle

would be rapidly destroyed by the pressures of the twentieth

century and that camels would soon become as extinct as the

dodo bird.”

“Viscount Buckmaster commented, with some surprise,

that Bedouin life had remained as strong as ever. The moral

symbols that the Bedouins associated with sand were still

alive and well. The customs of hospitality were even more

generous than before, and most importantly of all, the care

about and breeding of camels continued to be given prominent

importance. Camels were found to be thriving in large numbers,

despite the spread of Land Rovers and the provision of safe

roads for vehicle traffic.”

“The Al Dhafra Festival uses the history and heritage of the

region to recall stories from the past. These stories depict

the actions and efforts of our fathers and forefathers, and

demonstrate their determination. The festival’s aim is to

preserve the heritage of the region and enhance its position

through the implementation of an innovative renaissance and

development plan. This is not just a celebration that repeats

itself. It is a solid bridge that memory uses to cross from past to

present, inspired by our shining heritage and thriving present.”

Mohammed Khalaf Al Mazrouei

There is also the Heritage Camel Race, the Camel Auction,

falcon competitions, Date competition, Saluki Race,

photography contest, classic car competition and handicraft

competition, all in addition the traditional Market and the

Children’s Village.

The festival takes place in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi

and usually runs from mid to end of December. Check www.

aldhafrafestival.ae for further details.

New in store ...take a look at some new and exciting additions to our range

Illy - ISSIMO COFFEE WItH MIlK

The joy of the signature illy taste: rich, cool and splendid, with the flip

of an elegantly slim can’s tab. This is illy issimo, the ready-to-drink

coffee beverage based on the legendary illy blend and available in

five flavours: caffe (for purists: the first ready-to-drink coffee without

milk); caffe no sugar (go yet purer!); cappuccino (blended with

velvety milk and a touch of dark cocoa); latte macchiato (blended

with more milk: smooth, refreshing); mochaccino (indulgent espresso

experience with velvety milk and premium Domori cocoa). Made with

illy 100% Arabica coffee and delicious served chilled over ice!

Available in: Caffe, Caffe no sugar, Latte macchiato, Mocchaccino and Cappuccino


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March 2014 n Issue 18 March 2014 n Issue 18

22

EPICurE SWEEt rOAStED GArlIC PuréE

SHort of time and don’t fancy peeling lots of cloves of garlic?

This sweet and fragrant puree is perfect for homemade garlic

bread, sauces and roasted meats. A quick squeeze of the tube is

guaranteed to being an extra dimension to your dish, without all

the fuss.

EPICurE ANCHOvy PAStE

Puréed Spanish anchovies for an intense fish flavour. Blend with

butter to make a tempting tasting relish. Add to a fish soup for a

more fishy flavour or to a pasta sauce for a more depth in taste

Fill your vol-au-vents for a perfect fishy party or place in canapes

for a lovely light snack.

El SAbOr tOrtIllA WrAPS

Established in 1992 as the first tortilla chips plant in Greece El

Sabor delivers flour tortilla wraps for every occasion. Available in

a variety of sizes and packs that are perfect for individuals, family

or party portions. Ready to eat straight from the packet, you can

warm through or fill with your desired filling and eat just as they

come. They come in wholemeal too!

MArS MIx

Tucking into a packet of Mars Mix is like eating a Mars bar in a ball

format. The nougat, caramel and chocolate all taste identical to

that found in a real Mars Bar but are easier to share ... or eat all

to yourself as you pop one at a time. You never know which you

will get, but either way, if you like Mars Bars, you will love these!

vOOrtMAN SuGAr FrEE COOKIES

Voortman’s wonderful Sugar Free line is dedicated to the

growing numbers of people who have monitor their diet. These

Sugar Free varieties are carefully formulated to exceed your

taste expectations! At Voortman’s, leaving out the Sugar doesn’t

mean leaving out the flavour. (Sugar free and full of flavour!)

HuMANA INFANt FOOD FOrMulA

Humana formula can be fed from birth onwards and is ideally

suited to supplement breast milk or on its own if you don’t

breastfeed.

Infant Formula 1 with LC-PUFA can be fed from birth onwards

and is ideally suited to supplement breast milk or as milk feed

on its own. You can feed Humana Infant Formula 1 up to the end

of the bottle age. Follow-on Formula 2 with prebiotics is ideal

for babies over 6 months, following on from breast-feeding or

Infant Formula. Follow-on Formula 3 is ideal for babies from 10

months, following Follow-on Formula 2 or any other follow-on

milk. You can feed Follow-on Formula 3 without any problem

from the bottle, or later from the cup. Prebiotics Growing-up

Milk with prebiotics is ideal for infants from 12 months, following

Follow-on Formula 3 or any other follow-on milk. Growing-up

Milk can be offered as a drink together with a meal (for instance

with a slice of bread or as the milk for muesli).

23


25

NIvEA IN-SHOWEr bODy lOtION

Discover the convenient new way to moisturise while in the shower.

This innovation revolutionises your body care routine and takes

the hassle out of moisturising. Thanks to NIVEA’s pioneering In-

Shower Body Moisturiser you will get a smooth skin feel while

taking your daily shower. Discover your brand new body care

routine that will make every day a body lotion day for you. It’s easy

to use and works in 4 simple steps. 1. Wash - Use your normal

shower product and rinse off. 2. Apply - Apply NIVEA’s new In-

Shower Body Moisturiser while still in the shower. 3. Rinse - Rinse

Off. 4. Ready - Dry yourself, get dressed and go!

Available in: Dry Skin and Normal Skin

NIvEA COCOA buttEr bODy lOtION

Leave your skin smooth as silk and smelling great with Nivea’s

deep conditioning cocoa body butter.

An intensive nourishing formula softens and boosts your skin’s

elasticity and suppleness and is best for: very dry skin and pregnant

women to help prevent stretch marks.

How it works: Cocoa butter, an excellent moisturiser that melts at

body temperature, is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants.

Particularly in cold weather or winter time, this lotion will keep your

skin hydrated and moisturised - looking and smelling great.

Available in: Dry Skin and Normal Skin

JOHNSON’S SOAP bArS

From baby’s first hospital bath through every special milestone,

moms and healthcare professionals alike trust JOHNSON’S® baby

products to provide the “best in care.” Whether you’re purchasing

a timeless classic or a newer release, with JOHNSON’S® Baby

you’re always getting the clinically proven gentle formulas that

have made them the most trusted name in baby care products for

more than 100 years. These bars are enriched with honey, almond

or blossoms to ensure skin is left moisturised and clean.

JOHNSON’S bODyCArE vItA-rICH SOAP

Johnson’s is not just for babies. Experience these luscious vitamin-

enriched soaps and leave your skin feeling fresh and clean in an

instant. Infused with extract of pomegranate for a brighter skin,

papaya for smoother skin, rosewater for a soothing feeling or

raspberry extract to replenish lost vitamins and minerals.

JOHNSON’S bODyCArE vItA-rICH bODyWASH

The same vita-rich ingredients in the form of a bodywash and

a showers experience you will love. Luscious vitamin-enriched

bodywashes that will leave your skin feeling fresh and clean in an

instant. Infused with extract of pomegranate for a brighter skin,

papaya for smoother skin, rosewater for a soothing feeling or

raspberry extract to replenish lost vitamins and minerals.


24

27


26


vASElINE MEN bODy lOtION

Specially formulated with a man’s needs in mind, the VASELINE®

MEN® skincare line delivers just the right amount of hydration

for healthy, looking resilient skin no matter what the day brings.

Vaseline® Men Fast Absorbing Body Lotion tackles skin dryness

in just 15 seconds. The fast absorbing, non-greasy formulation

contains Stratys-3™ multi-layer moisture to provide 24-hour

moisture for strong skin. By pushing your body to its limits during

intense daily activity or after workouts, your skin goes through a

test of endurance, leaving it feeling overheated and dehydrated.

Vaseline® Men Cooling Body Lotion actively cools and hydrates

skin with a cooling formula containing menthol and Stratys-3™

multi-layer moisture to refresh and cool skin on contact.

NIvEA MEN ADvANCED FAIrNESS

The effective formula with fairness vitamin complex containing 10

nutrients, includes Whitinat - proven to lighten extra dull, damaged

skin 10 times better than Vitamin C*. It also protects skin from

re-darkening with SPF 30. Specifically developed for men’s skin it

absorbs quicker and leaves no residue!

MANE ‘N tAIl HAND & NAIl tHErAPy

An exclusive combination of intensive protein enriched ingredients

enables your hands and body to achieve a natural feel while

moisturizing dry and cracked skin. Originally developed for horses

to moisturize dry, cracked, brittle hooves. Since applied to the hoof

by human hands, over time many of those using Hoofmaker on

their horses noticed dramatic improvement in the condition of their

hands and nails.

The first thing that strikes you as you enter the So Spa at

Sofitel Palm Jumeirah is the spacious setting (that and the

divine smell). It makes the start of your journey here so much

more pleasurable as you are taken through your treatment

plan by an attentive therapist then led to the open plan lounge

area to sip a delicious fusion tea whilst your individual room

is prepared. Everywhere here you are surrounded by water.

The motion-sensor waterfalls gush, the jacuzzi bubbles up

on all sides, a terrifyingly chilly-looking plunge pool sits

glass-like daring you to try. An outside pool beckons to soak

up the sun and the intimate jacuzzi pool room lures you into

its warm depths to soothe away those aches and pains.

As tempting as it all is, my room is ready and I am off to

begin my Oriental massage and a So Rejuvenating facial with

a refreshing peppermint and coconut foot bath.

Immediately put at ease with the professionalism and

undeniable attention to detail the therapists here are clearly

well-trained.

A pepper and ginger oil I’m told, is used with strong (or your

preferred) pressure to ensure the body is both relaxed and

energised. And it certainly is after an hour of tending to every

single part of my body with special attention, as requested,

to the particularly achy bits.

Onto the facial and from start to splendidly fresh-faced finish

I am advised of the stages and why they are being applied. I

love knowing what, why and when and I was knowledgeably

informed of every detail - from scrub, to planing, toning,

masking, serum application and steaming, to bathing,

extraction (not as painful as you might think and optional if

you don’t like it!), moisturising and massaging - I can honestly

say that it is one of the best facials I have experienced.

A super-relaxing neck, hand and scalp massage finished off

the 60 minutes whilst my final application of anti-

aging cream was working its magic. (I am hoping at

this point that she used the extra-strong variety just

for good measure).

Finally settled back in the deep relaxation room I

was served a ‘rejuvenating’ tea specifically tailored

with my treatment to further enhance its healing

properties - and delicious it was too.

As I relax away and allow the tea to continue the

good work I turn my mind to what I will be doing

next - I think to myself that the icy plunge pool will

have to wait for another visit. Besides the therapist

advised that I shouldn’t get my face wet just for now

- honestly, she did.

SoRelaxedat SoSpa, Sofitel Palm Jumeirah

28

March 2014 n Issue 18March 2014 n Issue 18

29

Water, water everywhere. Surrounded by watery options you

should take the day to enjoy the relaxing ambience of this elegant spa

30


3131


Back in 1990 Macau was seen as a sleepy ex-colonial

backwater that just happened to have gambling. This goes

back to colonial times, when Hong Kong had tight limits on

gambling - it was legal only at the horse racing track twice

a week - but Macau had casinos and quickly overtook Las

Vegas as the world’s highest revenue gambling destination.

In fact, Macau generates more revenue from gambling than

anywhere else on the planet, including more than seven times

the revenue generated than that of The Strip in Las Vegas.

Located across the Pearl River estuary from Hong Kong,

until 1999 Macau was an overseas territory of Portugal. In

the 16th Century, China gave Portugal the right to settle in

Macau in exchange for ridding the area of pirates.

When I was last there in the 90s, we buzzed around the

quiet streets in Mini Mokes, directed by distinctively dressed

policeman standing on platforms waving gloved hands wildly

at the few cars that passed by.

As the first and last European colony in Asia, Macau has

more visible colonial history than Hong Kong which lies just

65km away, and arriving by ferry from there as I just had 55

minutes ago, I was looking forward to wandering about the

historical city again, exploring the alleyways and hunting for

macaumagical

words and pictures Louise Adamson

Macau is by no means just the ‘Vegas of the East’. With gorgeous colonial architecture, some of it on the UNESCO World Heritage List, a fantastic climate ,finebeachesandexcellentfood,MacauisadestinationIdesperatelywantedtoreturntoaftermyfirstvisitsome20plusyearsago.

Much more than just the Vegas of the East

32


33

some wonderful warm Portuguese egg tarts.

Besides the city itself (Macau/Peninsula), Macau includes the

islands of Taipa and Coloane, which are connected to Macau

by some rather impressive bridges, and to each other by a

causeway. The reclaimed area between the two islands has been

built up into the Cotai Strip; that has become an area of intense

development with many new casinos and hotels. It is a far cry

from the sleepy place I remember all those years ago.

Aside from the casinos and even more land reclamation, the next

mega development will be the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge

that by 2016 will directly link Hong Kong to the Macau peninsula,

reducing travel time to just 40 mins by road. One gets the feeling

that the decade to 2019 will see even more substantial changes

than the first.

Macau is a city of duality, with churches, Portuguese architecture

and fortresses sitting alongside temples, shrine and oriental life

buzzing all around it. The buildings and cobblestone or patterned

brick streets in many parts of the city, particularly the centre of the

old city and Coloane, look much like somewhere in Mediterranean

Europe. However, the sheer volume of people and the Chinese

signs all about firmly plonk you in Asia. The Portuguese and

Macanese population continues to maintain a presence, but most

of the population is native Chinese and speaking Cantonese.

Taipa was once two islands that became joined together by

silt from the Pearl River and is well worth a trip across either

Governador Nobre de Carvalho Bridge, Friendship Bridge or the

Sai Van Bridge from the peninsula. Taipa has been the subject of

rapid urbanisation over the last few years and it’s hard to imagine

that just a few decades ago it was an island of duck farms and

boat yards - but some character remains, especially if you travel

further to Coloane where you will find lush green parks and fine

beaches. Hac Sa (black sand) and Cheoc Van (bamboo bay) -

are located on the southern side of Coloane island and are very

popular with both locals and visitors, especially at the weekend.

From the Song Dynasty onwards and until the Portuguese arrival

in 1864, the small island of Coloane was a sea salt farm for China.

After their arrival, the Portuguese made Macau an important

trading port, but Coloane remained deserted, which was used

as a base by pirates until 1910. The island has become more

populated after the Estrada do Istmo was finished in 1969 and

although today it retains Macau’s old way of life, luxurious villas

are slowly finding their way onto the island.

One of the best ways to cover the sights is to do the Macau

The Ruins of St. Paul’s - a popular sight of the city

34


35

Delicious Portuguese egg custard tarts


Macanese fried rice and vegetables, simple freshly grilled sardinesnutty almond Chinese cookies at the market, Bakkwa chilli-spiced meats sold by the sheet

36

Heritage Walk circuit. The heritage buildings, the Sao Paulo

Cathedral, the Fort and the Macau Museum are all adjacent

to each other and can be conveniently seen individually even

if you cannot catch the Heritage walk timing.

The city is a fascinating place to just walk around as it

you’ll find an interesting mix of Portuguese and Chinese

characteristics. Besides the architecture, there are also

hundreds of narrow alleyways forming a maze in the old part

of Macau where you will find so many options to eat.

Speaking of which, if there is one thing you shouldn’t leave

Macau without trying it is the famous warm Portuguese Egg

Tart. A flaky-buttery pastry filled with eggy custard and baked

until a slightly burned skin forms on top. Similar custards

were to be found in one small bakery that replaced the pastry

by real egg shell. Staring across the tray of freshly baked

custards my only thought was that one just wasn’t going

to be enough! Served warm from small ovens on the street

side, you can buy egg tarts near the Ruins of St. Paul’s,

right alongside the Bakkwa shops. Also known as rougan

this salty-sweet dried meat product is similar to jerky and

comes in flattened rectangles with a production process

virtually unchanged throughout the centuries. It originated

from the Fujian province in China where it is considered a

Hokkien delicacy.

Portuguese food (cozinha portuguesa), brought in by its

Portuguese colonisers, is hearty, salty, and straightforward.

While many restaurants claim to serve it, fully authentic fare

is mostly limited to a few high-end restaurants, especially

the cluster at the southwestern tip of the Peninsula. Typical

Portuguese dishes include: pato de cabidela (bloody duck),

a stew of chicken with blood and herbs, served with rice,

bacalhau (salted cod), traditionally served with potatoes

and veggies, caldo verde - a soup of potato, chopped kale

and chourico sausage. Macanese food was created when

Portuguese and Chinese influences were mixed together with

spices brought from Africa and South-East Asia by traders.

Taipa is now a major destination for those going for

Portuguese and Macanese food and there are many famous

restaurants on the island. There are several restaurants in

Coloane, which is also home to the famous Lord Stow’s

Bakery, which popularised the Macanese egg tart.

Hmm, I’m feeling hungry again ...


37

Temples sit contrastingly

alongside colonial architecture


an interesting mix of Portuguese and Chinese

characteristics

I have heard that sugar-free products are very bad for you, as the body thinks something is coming, but when it doesn’t, it looks for it elsewhere. Please explain

how this works and if I should avoid these foods.

Sugar-free products typically contain less than 0.5

grams of sugar per serving and are usually sweetened

using artificial sweeteners, which are very low in calories or

even calorie free. These are beneficial for people wanting to

lose weight or suffering from diabetes, but want to have an

occasional treat and not be completely deprived. What is

being discussed more recently is that artificial sweeteners

are harmful due to their effect on the body’s insulin and

glucose response. An increase in insulin reflects an increase

in appetite and thus more food consumption. The study is

controversial as it was small and took into consideration only

morbidly obese individuals who in turn already have an altered

metabolic response. Much more research is needed and on a

larger scale before we generalise. Currently, all international

dietetic associations and the FDA still consider sweeteners

safe for consumption, in moderation.

On the other hand, sugar-free products may contain high levels

of fat, making them more caloric. When buying any sugar-free

products you should also check the fat content and calories.

Always make sure your daily treat doesn’t exceed 150 kcal.

So whether you consume natural sugar containing products

or sugar-free ones, the key is to limit the total calories you

consume.

I love eating hommus but I know that it contains a lot of olive oil. I know that fat is not good for you in large quantities, should I stop eating hommus?

Actually, hommus is a complete meal as it contains

carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Each tablespoon

contains only 27kcal and 1g of unsaturated fat, which is the

good fat in case you are wondering.

It is highly recommended to include hommus in your diet, in

moderation of course, as it is also high in fibre, has a low

glycemic load, is rich in calcium, iron, vitamin C, Vitamin B6,

folic acid, omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids and phytosterols

among many other nutrients.

Olive oil is usually added on top of hommus and is very healthy

also due to its high content of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty

acids, yet it is highly caloric as each teaspoon contains 45kcal

and the usual hommus plate comes drizzled generously with

olive oil, which could lead to a spike in calories from just

27kcal per Tbsp of hommus to more than 100kcal if 2 tsp of

oil are added on top.

I recommend that you keep eating hommus regularly, but just

make sure you add no more than 1 tsp of olive oil to your

serving or avoid the added oil altogether if you’re trying to

control your weight. Think about replacing the pita bread with

vegetables to use as a dipper instead!

Q & AWith her clinical dietetics, food service, psychology and management background, Rita

works to deliver the highest level of food quality and customer care for all clients. She also

thrives to ensure that all Slim’n Lite clients receive a full educational session during their

consultations and all the support required to ensure a healthy and happy life.

Send us your diet questions to Rita for some professional advice ...

Q Q

A A

Y ou rs i n hea lth

, RitaSend your questions to: [email protected]

39

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We’ve been busy digging around the internet to find all things mum-related to share with you on this special day. From apps

to websites, you might find them informative, fun and inspiring.

www.makers.comA dynamic digital platform showcasing thousands of compelling stories - both known and unknown

- from trailblazing women of today and tomorrow. This historic video initiative was founded by Dyllan

McGee and developed by AOL and PBS. Executive Producers are Dyllan McGee, Betsy West, and Peter

Kunhardt. The website offers a library of exclusive video interviews with inspirational women. If you want

to feel empowered, don’t miss a chance to dive into Makers, where you’ll realise it’s never too late to take

initiative! (We would love to see this go worldwide rather than just the USA though).

Mother’s Day memories appBeing a mum is a job that includes multiple tasks: cooking, getting the kids ready for school, helping

with the homework, showering and dressing the smallest ones … and of course, keeping a memory of

all these not-so-important, but always precious moments. And that’s where this handy little iPhone app

steps in. Story Tree is an app dedicated to helping you preserve your precious family memories and to

share them with the ones you love.

netmumsSo you’re a working mum. Do you think something might need to change if you are to retain your sanity

and stay able to hold it all together? Having a child puts huge emotional and practical pressures onto

families,andsometimesitcangetabitmuch.Youmightfinditistimetotakeastepback,chattoothers

and investigate whether there’s more you can do to make a change. www.netmums.com is full of advice,

videos and tips to make motherhood more manageable from babies to teenagers it’s a great resource.

unICeFThis year, give your mum the gift of giving. Why not make a donation on her behalf to the children’s charity

UNICEF. You can specify a particular relief fund like South Sudan, Central African Republic or the Syria

crisis, or just send it where it is most needed. UNICEF’s vision is to build a world where every child can grow up healthy, protected

from harm and educated, so they can reach their full potential. No matter who they are or where they are born, UNICEF reaches out

to the most vulnerable children wherever and whenever they need them. www.unicef.org

Mothering Sunday


42 www.e recommend

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