Current WTA world number one Serena Williams had an erroneous start but managed to bounce back and win against Russia's Ekaterina Makarova (ranked 24th) 7-6, 6-0 to advance to the quarterfinals.
Here are some snaps I took:
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Photos: Serena Williams in action at Dubai Tennis Championships 2014
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Jollibee to open food outlets in Dubai, UAE
The news about Jollibee to "open, operate own restaurants in UAE" created some trending threads on Facebook and Twitter earlier today - a testimony that we are so long craving for chickenjoys and yumburgers that we've grown up with.
Actually, there were around 3-4 'Jollibee' here in Dubai, only one remains operating though, the Dubai Marina outlet. But speculations say it was not the real Jollibee franchise despite the use of the brand, the logo and the menu. Some say it is, they just tweaked the recipe to fit in the 'Halal' requirement of the country. It was a 'fine dining restaurant' setup and is always beside Roundtable Pizza. (Jollibee-Greenwich?)
That 'Jollibee' was horrible! I tried it once, in 2006 and I never did again. Never ever! I was excited to try how Jollibee fares well in the foreign land, hearing some good raves about Jollibee Hong Kong and US. Curiously, we ordered Champ, Jolly Spaghetti, Chickenjoy and Palabok Fiesta. I don't want to go into details how awful it was, coz I still love bee, the reall Jollibee. That was just one of the most disappointing dining experience I had here in Dubai.
I sent Jollibee Foods an email about my experience and got no reply. I sent 3 emails in 2 years.
Fast forward today and we have this news. Though it neither validates nor confirm that the operating Jollibee is a genuine JFC franchise or not.
In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, the homegrown fastfood giant said subsidiary Golden Plate Pte Ltd inked a joint venture agreement with Golden Crown Foods LLC (GCFL) to put up a company that will operate Jollibee stores in the UAE.
GCFL will control the joint venture company with a 51 percent stake, while the JFC unit will own 49 percent. Both firms will share control and management of the firm with initial funding pegged at $80,000.Everyone's excited about the announcement. But everyone's hanging as well as there's no definite information yet about when and where. "Plan to open" could mean this year, or next year or after 2 years, right...
I was informed that the owners are thinking of having one in Al Rigga, but the area as of now is crowded already. I did a quick survey and the popular choices in which Filipinos wish to have Jollibee are Deira, Satwa and Sharjah, and the new Al Ghurair Centre and Deira City Centre.
The real Jollibee will surely be a big hit not only among kids but with the grown-ups as well, or the so called "mga batang Jollibee." Jollibee, just make sure that you'll have big party halls as for sure, you'll be a hit for children's parties.
It will also give Ronald McDonald and Mr. Colonel a scare.
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8 upcoming shows and concerts for Filipinos in Dubai
Before the weather gets hot, the Filipino community in the UAE are set to experience some of the hottest performing artists from the Philippines.
Here are 8 upcoming concerts and shows in March and April:
1. The Original Hit Makers
March 7 - Indian High School
The original vocalists of Freestyle, Top Suzarra and Jinky Vidal reunites to perform the band's favorite hits like Before I Let You Go, So Slow and Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang. Joining them is one of the country's rap genius, an icon and most influential rapper, Gloc-9.
For tickets, call 0509535395.
March 7 - 12 (See poster for venues)
Viva Hot Babes Maui Taylor and Katya Santos will usher summer this early as they are set showcase their hottest performances that will surely thrill the boys.
3. Kami Naman, Walang Basagan
March 7 - Kitakits Kafe & Klubb
Laugh out loud, roll on the floor with this comedy trilogy from 3 of the most talented stand-up comedians from the Philippines - Super Tekla, Fudge and Tammy Brown.
For tickets, call 0509001897 / 0562616958. See poster for other ticket outlets.
4. Regine & Ogie
March 27 - The Lawn, Emirates Golf Club
The songwriter and the songbird, known as the power couple will heat up our hearts once again with their timeless songs and world-class performances.
For tickets, call 0529900112. See poster for other ticket outlets.
5. MYMP Electrified
March 28 & 29 - Kitakits Kafe & Klubb
Chin and Jana, the new vocalist of the band, will celebrate 10 years of MYMP music. The group that has taken acoustic music to new heights will perform their greatest hits along with their new releases.
For tickets, call Striker Events at 043914304. See poster for other ticket outlets.
April 4 - Al Nasr Leisureland Ice Rink
A perfect thrill to start April! The crystal voice of Asia, Sheryn Regis and the queen of teleserye theme songs, Angeline Quinto are set to belt it out in Dubai.
7. Banana Split goes to Dubai
April 4 - Indian High School Football Field
Angelica Panganiban, John Pratts, Zanjoe Marudo, Jayson Gainza, Pooh and the whole Banana Split gang are bringing their comic acts to Dubai.
For tickets, call 0553187888
8. All Stars Pinoy Rappers
April 10 - Domeland Arena
Abra, Ron Henley, Loonie headlines this event. Get on and hop with the rappers and possibly some fliptop battles, as these new and upcoming big names in the Pinoy rap music genre invades Dubai. .
For tickets, call 0507553708.
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Photos: Roger Federer wins 2014 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship
The Federer Express is back in Dubai! After a gruelling semis victory over Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer defeats Tomas Berdych 3-6, 6-4, 6-3.
This is his 6th crown in Dubai. He has won the title in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2012. The last against Andy Murray.
Here are some photos of Roger in the tournament:
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This is his 6th crown in Dubai. He has won the title in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2012. The last against Andy Murray.
Here are some photos of Roger in the tournament:
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10 Reasons to Watch MYMP's 10th Anniversary Album Tour in Dubai
MYMP never goes off my playlist wherever I may be - home, driving or at work. Their kind of music is my relief to everyday stress. And their selections somehow tell us our stories. I will never get tired of listening to their soft and easy listening renditions.
This year, MYMP is celebrating their 10th anniversary in the recording industry with an Electrified album tour. The band will be showcasing their classics and a whole lot of new things here in Dubai on 28th and 29th March.
Here are 10 electrifying reasons why you should join me to watch them:
1. A new album
Released under Galaxy Records, their 7th studio album Electrified features 2 brand new tracks plus 8 other renditions. While they are best known for acoustics, the band has evolved a bit by adding a few instruments to the acoustic guitar in this album. The cuts are: (1) Too Many Broken Hearts, (2) Just A Smile Away, (3) You’re In Love, (4) Gravity, (5) Givin’ Up On You, (6) Tell Me, (7) How Much I Love You, (8) Unwritten, (9) Bakit Ba Ganyan, and (10) Electrified.
2. ... and a very promising original carrier single, Electrified
“The song is like reminiscing your high school crush and getting the same feeling as “electrified”. That feeling would last for days and would only add to your hopes that someday she/he would like you too. I thought everyone could relate to that.” - Chin
3. Meet the new vocalist, Jana Laraza
Meet the sweet and beautiful new vocalist who was chosen because of her voice quality that is perfect for an MYMP vocalist. Jana started singing professionally in the late 2009 only. Her influences include Marsha Ambrosius, Vivian Green, Lalah Hathaway, Julliane, Floetry among others.
4. Meet the rest of the band
With the new album, the group is not just limiting themselves to acoustics. Meet the whole gang responsible for the new sound. Kitakits will be rockin!
5. Relive our acoustic favorites
Hear our MYMP favorites like Especially For You, Crazy For You, Tell Me Where It Hurts and I'll Never Get Over You Getting Over Me, and so much more live! The band will surely bring back memories and will remind us of the heartaches and happy endings and feelings whomever we're dedicating these songs to.
6. Royals Cover
Here's wishing they'll do this live! Pleeeeeaase?
7. Chin's vocals
Its sounds so good when Chin sings. Duets with Jana sure sounds perfect! Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now should be a killer. Hope he does Fast Car too... and Happy!
8. Be inspired
MYMP is actually in the music industry for 17 years already, dating back in 1996. There had been ups and downs, changes in the lineup, struggles and many successes. Be inspired on how they've maintained longevity in the industry and how they're getting even stronger these days.
9. Valentines on March
This show is one great treat for your wife (she's watching at my back while typing this) or girlfriend or your barkada! Indulge into a reminiscence of hearty feelings with your partner, singalong with your favorites and groove and fall in love with their new sound.
10. ...possibly, they might perform your requests
Since it will be at Kitakits Klub and Kafe, they might just do. Watch some of their latest Youtube videos for ideas of what else they could possibly play outside their repertoire.
The band is currently busy with their album tours in and out of the country and we're lucky they have a 2-night stop here in Dubai. Tickets can be bought online at Timeout Tickets or at McDavid's Al Rigga, Max's Restaurant and Kitakits Marco Polo Hotel!
For group reservations, Striker Events Dubai can deliver tickets (if you buy 5 or more), call them at 04-3914304 or 056-6966979.
About the group:
Jacques "Chin" Alcantara founded the band back in late 1996. It was Chin's elder brother, Julius, who gave the band its name – a tribute to their departed mother. Chin's mother, Dr. Stella Lopez-Alcantara (a cardiologist), had died of complications from breast cancer when he was 17.Back when it was originally formed, Make Your Momma Proud was a four-man rock band, whose arsenal included Jimi Hendrix, The Doors and, as Alcantara adds, a little Mr. Big.He was still a student at Miriam College then, taking up Communication Arts, major in Advertising. "My mom played the piano but she didn’t get to see me play professionally—she did get to see me start out", Alcantara said. In the year after his mother died, Alcantara took up the guitar and, in his words, "really got obsessed with it and that’s when I knew what I wanted to be a musician. Alcantara was enjoined by his father (an investment and a private development banker) to attend classical guitar tutoring, but stopped after a month. Alcantara taught himself how to play.The peak of M.Y.M.P.'s amateur days was when it won the 1996 national championship of the San Miguel Beer Battle of (rock) Bands. Before that, the group had won the NCR championship, best vocalist and best lead-guitarist awards.As a college band, M.Y.M.P. appeared in college fairs and shows, but as they became more earnest in their intent to pursue music as a career, they encountered difficulty in lining up gigs due to their "disciplined rock" repertoire. M.Y.M.P. added a keyboardist and began working on a more pop sound, completing the transformation with the addition in 2000 of a female vocalist, Marifil Niña Girado, known then as the R&B singer (and later as Nina, the Soul Siren) after leaving the band to go solo. M.Y.M.P. then industriously performed in bars, clubs and shows for years, building an identity.In 2001, Alcantara handled an audition for a new female lead, and the group found Julie Iris "Juris" Fernandez. Originally from Davao, Fernandez explains she didn’t grow up exposed to music on a regular basis. Like Alcantara, Fernandez did not study music formally for long, eschewing the training to learn on her own. After graduating from Miriam College, Juris Fernandez was studying at the Ateneo, working towards completing her pre-med requirements when she decided that, like Alcantara, she wanted to immerse herself in music. After singing with Jimmy Bondoc, she fatefully auditioned for M.Y.M.P
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Angeline Quinto, Sheryn Regis Live in Concert
I often get this question from my non-Filipino friends, 'Why are Filipinos good singers?'
Obviously, the world music scene is not dominated by Filipinos. But I try to understand why we're often being recognized in this field. In Idol, X-Factor, Got Talent and in almost all the singest contests in the world, there's always one or many with Filipino lineage that stand out.
In the country, you'll find singing competitions everywhere, literally. It's a fixture on every TV network. We've got franchises of The Voice of the Philippines, Philippine/Pinoy Idol, Pilipinas Got Talent, X-Factor Philippines and Pinoy Dream Academy to name some.
I think it goes beyond the obvious talent. The passion to express emotions and to connect to the hearts of listeners make Filipinos good in singing.
Both Sheryn Regis and Angeline Quinto exemplify this passion. They
are just 2 of many successful artists today that started their careers in singing competitions. They do not just showcase their world-class vocal talents, they also inspire talented young ones that dreams come true.
Sheryn and Angeline will share the stage this Friday, 4th April, for the Ultimate Divas Live in Concert. Show starts at 8pm at Al Nasr Leisureland Ice Skating Rink in Oud Metha, Dubai.
Tickets are available at AED50 (Regular), AED90 (VIP) and AED110 (VVIP) denominations. You may call 0509001897 or 0562616958 for ticket reservation and further inquiries.
Sheryn, known as the Crystal Voice of Asia, was a grand finalist in Birit Baby in Eat Bulaga in 2002. The year after, she joined ABS-CBN’s Star in a Million. She was a consistent top finalist from the start until the finals. Though she ended up first runner-up, she continued to soar high in the music scene by consistently belting out popular hits on TV and radio. In 2004 she represented Philippines in 'Voice of Asia' in Kazahkstan where she has won 2 prizes.
Angeline is a living picture of perseverance and determination. Not winning in first few singing competitions she joined did not stop her from chasing her dreams. She was a finalist in Star for a Night that Sarah Geronimo eventually won. She was a wildcard finalist on GMA's Diz It It Kantahan. She was also a finalist in Pinoy Pop Superstar losing to Jonalyn Viray. Not too long after, she finally got the grand champion trophy in Star Power Search, winning as the First Female Pop Superstar. From then on, various awards and recognition came along for this future superstar.
These two young divas continue their prowess in the music industry by popularizing quite a number of theme songs for famous TV soaps and films.
The Dubai show will also feature promising Filipino talents in the UAE like Oriel Padura, Gemini Gatchalian, Ian Chris Tocle and Zack Allen. La Ghie, who will represent the Philippines for 'We are the Emirates' song will be the night's special guest.
Part of the proceeds will be dedicated to aid a Dubai-based OFW battling with Leukemia.
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Dubai Metro to be redecorated into art gallery & museum
The Dubai metro system is going to turn into an art gallery as reported.
Four stations have been selected for the first phase of development. One will host a collection of Islamic art and Arabic calligraphy, with pieces drawn from 1,400 years of Islamic culture. But it's not only the stations that are getting a make-over, as the driverless trains will also be decorated inside and out to reflect the project.
Here are some concepts of how the trains and stations could look like:
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Banana Split to Flood Dubai with Laughter
Everyone knows that the sweetest bananas in the supermarkets here are exported from the Philippines. But there are other 'bananas' from the Philippines that's not just sweet, but witty and wacky as well - daily consumption recommended.
Dessert becomes main course tonight as Banana Split Goes to Dubai. A bunch of these bananas are here this weekend to bring giggles and wiggles to UAE-based Filipinos who are surely longing for Pinoy brand of cheers and jeers.
Angelica Panganiban, John Pratts, Zanjoe Marudo, Jayson Gainza, Pooh, Ryan Bang, Sunshine Garcia and Aiko Climaco, together with Direk Bobot Mortiz will flood Dubai with unlimited laughter as they bring their famous acts from the high-rating Banana Split gag show live in Dubai.
Produced by GJ Entertainment and Organized by MDM Media Production FZE, the show tonight will be held at the Indian High School Football Field. Tickets cost AED55 (regular), AED95 (silver), AED150 (gold) and AED195 (platinum). You may still call 055 3187888 for reservations and purchase of tickets.
In a dialog with media and bloggers yesterday, Direk Bobot and the casts guarantee that the Dubai audience will have their happiest time on the show. I also asked him to cite some similarities and/or differences of this young generation and his original gag show Goin' Bananas, Direk highlights the amazing camaraderie that this group has developed, given that they are stars on their own already. He also recognizes how each and everyone contributes a natural comic spot that makes them click as one group.
I asked Angelica -=('',)=- how challenging it was, shifting back and forth from heavy drama into comedy, especially since the fans recognize her as a really good drama actress. Yes there were few challenges along the way, she said, but her long stint in Ang TV has molded her comic side actually. And in fact, naturally makulit talaga siya and pala-patawa naman especially when with friends. Thank you, Angel! You are consistently great... and beautiful! <3 br="" nbsp="">3>
They gave the media a little dose of their favorite skits and 'extra spoofs', Kuya Bhoy (Jayson), Krissy (Angelica), Kuya Kim (John), Manny Poohquiao (Pooh), teasers of what to expect tonight. Zanjoe, Ryan and the charming Aiko shared how she started in the industry, from Wowowie, and eventually became a banana. Former Sexbomb dancer, Sunshine surprised the crowd with her 'funny english' skits. Not one of them is not funny. Asked if they'll do all their popular segments? Jayson wants us to find out tonight. Ihaw na!
Tonight, dessert is unlimited!
Here are other snaps from the presscon at Rocky's Cafe, Regent Palace Hotel:
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| Angelica Panganiban |
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| Aiko Climaco |
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| Direk Bobot Mortiz |
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| John Pratts |
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| Ryan Bang |
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| Zanjoe Marudo |
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| Jayson Gainza |
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| Pooh |
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| Sunshine Garcia |
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| Angelica Panganiban |
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PHOTOS: Cosplayers at Middle East Film and Comic Con 2014
This year's Middle East Film and Comic Con surely is as cool as ever. It's fun and amusing! Here are some photos taken by cosplayer, Kat Chan on day 1 of the event:
All photos from graphic artist and cosplayer, Kat Chan.
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The Magic of Dubai Street Painting
This is a souvenir photo from Street Painting Italia during their showcase at Dub Fest International Street Theatre and Comedy Fair at the side streets of Al Ghurair Centre last month.
Amazing! I was only seeing these photos online, now I'm stepping on it. Props to the artist for the free photo.
And this time lapse video shows snippets of painting a 3D artwork about Skydiving over The Palm Jumeirah. Genius!
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Rumor Buster: Is the 7D in Dubai Mall video for real?
THERE'S ABSOLUTELY NO TRUTH on this video, titled "7D Show at Dubai Mall" circulating around social media these days.
7D is (supposedly) a new technology in Virtual Reality amusement, mostly used in cinemas. Instead of just looking at a movie, it is like being in the movie as you will feel what you see with over 7 different special effects kicking in during the thrilling ride.
I searched Dubai Mall's official website right away for 7D and not a single item was returned on search results. Some tweeps have already asked Dubai Mall on Twitter and indeed, they have no clue about it.
@ionGonzaga Hi! Yes, you are right it is not us :))
— The Dubai Mall (@TheDubaiMall) April 18, 2014Or maybe, there's another mall named "Dubai Mall" somewhere in South Asia? Hmmm
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| This is how 7D shoule typically be: Visitors check out Dark Ride XD, a new 7D game, at the Dubai Entertainment Amusement and Leisure Show at Dubai International Exhibition Centre. |
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What is MERS-CoronaVirus and How Can We Protect Ourselves Against It?
MERS-CoV or Middle East Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus is currently on a heightening alarm across the country and in the Philippines. After one Filipino paramedic died in Al Ain last week, ten others remain in quarantine. A colleague of the victim, along with hundreds of passengers and cabin crew who traveled from Abu Dhabi to Manila on the same Etihad Airways flight last week were ordered to seek medical examinations and take utmost precautionary measures.
Coronaviruses comes from a family of viruses that cause illness to both human and animals. It can cause illnesses ranging in severity from the common colds to sever acute respiratory syndrome or SARS. MERS resembles SARS but further studies and examination are still underway. There are no definite cure or vaccination against it to date. It is speculated that the disease came from camels, but everything is still understudy.
MERS was first detected in April 2012 and has since 60% death rate. Obvious symptoms are fever, coughing with phlegm, breathing difficulties and pneumonia. It may also cause kidney failures, diarrhea and other respiratory failures.
MERS-CoV is transmitted by direct contact with infected people, droplets from coughs and sneezes. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated, and then rubs it to the eyes, nose or mouth.
Here are some simple precautions, more of reminders actually, to prevent ourselves and our families from being infected:
1. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. Upon reaching home, go straight to the washroom to wash your hands and sanitize before touching or kissing our family, especially when you have a baby. Wash hands especially after you touch door knobs, bus and elevator buttons, trays and utensils from restaurants, items from store shelves, etc; most especially before meals.
2. Keep a hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol in the bag. If no water is available, these may do. If you're in a restaurant, ask for sanitary wipes before and after eating.
3. Refrain from handshakes and kisses. You can smile wave hi anyway ;-)
4. Avoid fitting 'used' garments. But if you really have to, ask the attendant to provide you a new one for fitting, or let them disinfect the garment first before you try.
5. Use tissues or hankies to cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing. Distance yourself about 4-feet when sneezing or coughing and don't direct it towards people. Stand up from your desk when at work. Don't spread it yourself. If you see others doing it, remind them politely to cover up. Throw away properly your used tissues. Never ever cover your mouth with your hands.
6. Do not spit just anywhere.
7. Take a sick leave when you feel any of these symptoms already. It's more than just caring for your office mates. If you're a commuter, think also of the people you may encounter at the bus, at the metro, in the lifts, canteens, etc.
Since 2012 to date, there is a total of 228 confirmed cases of infection with MERS-CoV detected, including 92 deaths. But health organizations are still telling us, THERE'S NO REASON TO PANIC. It is not found to be contagious. Just be extra careful.
Again and again, prevention is better than cure. Always eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly and have enough sleep. We need to boost our immune system.
Don't just be informed... be educated.
----- To concerned authorities, please make sure the camels in the desert parks are healthy.
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The Dubai Nursery Show
Two weeks ago we were just "nursery-hopping" trying to find the right nursery slash day-care for my
baby turning 2. I suddenly found ourselves registered for the Dubai Nursery Show happening next weekend, 25 and 26 April, from 9am-5pm on the first floor of Time Square Mall. Have a read:
“Dubai nurseries are currently in the process of starting their enrolment of new students for their September classes later this year, so there is no better time for busy parents to come and meet Dubai’s top nurseries in one room, at one time,” explains Natalie Humphrey, chief organiser of Baby Bazaar.
“The Dubai Nursery Show is the most convenient way for parents to see what the various nurseries can offer their child, and staff from each nursery will be available to talk to parents in depth about their ethos, curriculum and facilities. Parents are therefore able to judge for themselves which nursery is the best fit for their child.”
The participating nurseries’ locations range from Dubai Marina to Jumeirah to Downtown Dubai, and include prestigious nurseries such as Willow Nursery, Odyssey Nursery, Kids Cottage, Kids Island, Learn & Play, Little Wonders, Jumeirah International Nursery and British Orchard Nursery.
The Dubai Nursery Show aims to offer a fun, informative day out for the whole family and is held in association with Dubai’s much-loved Baby Bazaar – a monthly flea market for mums to sell their quality, pre-loved baby, toddler and maternity items. The Change Initiative will also be selling some of their environmentally friendly/sustainable products at the event.
Cheeky Monkeys will be providing kid’s entertainment and experts from the Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club will be on hand to help little ones out with some putting practice.
The second edition of this bi-annual event will take place in October 2014, as nurseries look forward to their January enrolment.
The Dubai Nursery Show will run on Friday 25 April and Saturday 26 April, 2014, from 9am-5pm on the first floor of Time Square Mall (free parking provided).
For further details please call 050 553-2048. Contact Natalie Humphrey, Chief Organiser at Baby Bazaar, +971 (50) 553 2048. Visit their Facebook event page for further info.
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Dubai, Please Don't Text and Drive
Honda nailed it! Their new socially responsible public ad is so powerfully appropriate.
The video shows an intimate and flirty exchange of SMS between two lovers. Both are excited to share their feelings towards a gift before even meeting up.
Here in UAE, while the danger of texting is surely obvious, still many motorists tend to ignore it. Many think they are invincible and accident-free. There's never a day on the road that I didn't see drivers texting - as if calling is not enough (not encouraged either).
If you love your partner, never text him/her if you know that he/she is driving. Do not be demanding for replies also. What's few minutes, or an hour to wait? Love your future, replies can wait.
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| This beautiful ad is made by the agency RPA. |
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6 Mega Projects in Dubai that Excites the Kid in Us
1. Six Flags
Six Flags Entertainment Corp, one of the world’s leading theme park developers, has just launched the tallest theme park drop/ride in the world, the Zumanjaro Drop of Doom. In partnership with Meraas Holding - the same developer behind the Bluewaters offshore project in Dubai that is to feature the world’s largest Ferris wheel, Six Flags is expected to build world-class theme park and record-setting rides and amusement. Tentatively, project completion is set at 2017.
Six Flags Entertainment currently operates 18 themed destinations in North America and Mexico and has revenues of $1.1 billion (Dh4 billion).
2. IMG World of Adventures / Dubai Adventure Studios
A 1.5 million square feet indoor themed entertainment destination, visitors will discover the huge excitement of an epic journey bursting with roller coasters, rides, thrills and adventures. The park will be comprised of 4 EPIC zones: Lost Valley-Dinosaur Adventure, Cartoon Network, IMG Boulevard and MARVEL. According to their Facebook Page, IMGWOA will be the biggest indoor themed entertainment destination in the world. Check out their website, http://www.imgwoa.ae/ to learn more about this marvelous development.
3. Universal Studios Dubailand
At more than twice the size of Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, Dubailand will be the pinnacle of the emirate's tourism draw. Plan to have a Universal theme park in Dubai is still alive.The $110 billion, 280-square-kilometer development by state-owned real-estate firm Tatweer will also include an 11-kilometer strip of themed hotels and sports facilities such as Music City and Tiger Woods's first golf course.
4. Legoland Dubai
Grading and early foundation work for the new Legoland Dubai theme park is already under way. According to this article, Merlin has confirmed that they will move forward with their plans to build Legoland Dubai, hoping to open the park in 2016
5. Aladdin City
Not really a kiddie attraction but the name is. No flying carpets, no magic lamps and genies, but the idea is inspired by the tales of Sindbad and, well, Aladdin.
6. Dubai Safari
This new attraction that aims to build a huge natural animal habitat will replace the existing 1.5 hectare Dubai Zoo in Jumeirah.. The first phase of construction is already complete. Authorities hope to open the 29 hectares park by late 2014.
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Emirates A380 Experience Opens in Dubai Mall
Here's our chance now to "pilot" an A380. Last week, Emirates launched Emirates A380 Experience at The Dubai Mall. This is the first public A380 flight simulator in the Middle East, and the airline’s second such project, having launched the Emirates Aviation Experience in London last year to a strong public reception.
Located in The Village at The Dubai Mall, the Emirates A380 Experience introduces visitors to the flight deck of the world's largest commercial aircraft, allowing aviation enthusiasts to experience what it's like to fly the jumbo carrier.
This latest attraction promises an experience like soaring through the skies on a 30-minute adventure in the realistic simulator. Feel the thrill of landing and taking off from 12 of the world's busiest airports in different weather conditions and your selected time of day.
Adding to the excitement, customers will be scored on how well they navigate the aircraft, allowing them to compete against family and friends.
Adding to the excitement, customers will be scored on how well they navigate the aircraft, allowing them to compete against family and friends.
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| Photo from Emirates A380 Experience Gallery |
The 30-minute session costs a prestigious AED 350, concessionary rates are available. Please visit the website for more info.
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| Photo from Emirates A380 Experience Gallery |
You may book and buy tickets through the website. Enjoy 15% off a host of branded merchandise with the voucher on your boarding card.
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Rumor Buster: Is Lamborghini UAE Really Giving Away A Gallardo?
A certain "Lamborghini Dubai" account ran a contest like this:
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Too good to be true? Apparently your instinct is correct. In a confirmation from Lamborghini UAE official Twitter account, the social media manager confirmed that it is not theirs, and that is a scam. Here's the tweet:
Too good to be true? Apparently your instinct is correct. In a confirmation from Lamborghini UAE official Twitter account, the social media manager confirmed that it is not theirs, and that is a scam. Here's the tweet:
Hi @ionGonzaga! The Lamborghini Dubai Facebook Page is a scam. Please do not particpate in the activities on that page.
— Lamborghini UAE (@LamborghiniUAE1) April 20, 2014We are so gullible... but who to blame, it's a Lambo giveaway! ;-)↧
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Sponsored Video: Philosophy
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Shell Helix Ultra Offers you a once in a lifetime F1 experience
SPONSORED - If you are a fan of Formula 1, cars and racing, this is the chance of a lifetime, because Shell Helix is offering a great opportunity to win a trip to the 2014 Formula 1 Belgium Grand Prix with a lot of amazing advantages.
Shell is offering fans a chance to experience an F1 race and to be part of Scuderia Ferrari VIP guest and experience the VIP access at Shell Belgium Formula One Grand Prix.
You can also visit the Shell Track Laboratory and enjoy your time and be able to access the Shell VIP Hospitality area, and that’s not all! You will also get the chance to meet Kimi Räikkönen in person! Yes you can!!
Ok, so what’s the catch? Let’s talk about the process:
All you have to do is to upload a picture or video of your car passion and share it at mycar.shell.com or go to Twitter or Instagram and upload a picture of it with the hashtag #MyCar.
You can also boost your chances of winning by buying Shell products such as Shell Helix Ultra/HX8/HX7 minimum of 3 liters at your nearest Midas, AutoZone or Shell Retail Stations.
To encourage you a little more, some extra information about the race are necessary:
The Belgium Grand Prix is one of F1's legendary races - mostly down to the Spa-Francorchamps circuit which has held the majority of the events, it’s one of the most popular races on the Formula One history, the competition comes with a lot of fun and excitement, 2014 and the Belgian Grand Prix is always a highlight, a fantastic circuit combined with an amazing atmosphere, excellent racing and a lot of great moments that you can enjoy, with all the sights, the sounds, the attractions and people of Belgium are very kind.
For more information, please visit: mycar.shell.com
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| #myCar |
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Tapa King Opens Restaurant in Dubai
The royalties have arrived! Tapa King celebrates the opening of their second overseas store (first in the UAE) with a grand program. Congratulations!
The store is located at the ground floor, B-block of Ansar Gallery in Karama (Zabeel Road corner Khaleed Bin Al Waleed Street). I was quite disoriented on the way to the store from the basement parking. Not sure if it's a popular spot among Filipinos as this is my first time to visit the shopping centre. But maybe, Tapa King will bring Pinoys to this place. Check.
A typical day in a Philippine mall is... you're dining and on the background, singers are belting out high notes in a competition happening at the center stage. That's the atmosphere tonight. Surely a treat. A viral campaign that started on Facebook, "Tapa King, Tapa Sing" competition ushers this successful launch. Very Filipino indeed.
Guests, led by Consul General Frank Cimafranca, Labor Attache Delmer Cruz and associates from the Philippine Consulate General Office, are treated with sumptuous buffet of some of Tapa King's finest. Other guests from various organizations, media and the blogosphere also grace the occasion to savor the "ultimate Pinoy comfort food."
Among the starters and mains on the table are Chicken Skin Sisig, Daing na Bangus, Chicken Afritada, and the Tapa King, Tapa Queen and Tapa Prince to go with the traditional garlic rice. Salads and desserts complete the set.
Tapa King is the original classic recipe - the traditional tapsilog flavor. Tapa Queen is sweet and spicy - "Pinoy-level" spicy, just peppery. Tapa Prince is sweet. Hmmm, I still have to find our why there's no princess in the royal tapa-mily. All meat are tender and perfectly seasoned. I'm okay with the Queen. It goes well with vinegar.
Chicken Skin Sisig is appetizing as always, especially when crispy. The tangy Daing na Bangus portions, may not be the best, but tastes like a good home-cooked daing.
There's a whole lot more to try. The restaurant will open to the public on Monday, 19th May. I'll definitely be back and won't miss the Manila's best-selling Tapa Flakes, TK Wrap, Lumpiang Shanghai and Sinigang, among others. And oh, Crispy Danggit, you're on my list too. Then Halo-Halo and Mais con Hielo, we'll have to tango!
Please have some baby's chairs on the store. It would be more family-friendly.
Background
Tapa King started in 1987 in Gallardo Street, Makati City, Philippines. The idea was to give customers a rice meal alternative to hamburgers, hotdogs and pizza – the real Pinoy comfort food that is filling and reminds you of your favorite home-cooked meals. From here, the idea clicked and more stores were opened in Metro Manila and provincial areas. The first overseas store was opened in Singapore. There are also plans to launch franchises in New York, Las Vegas and Rome after Dubai.
The Dubai franchise is handled by LMZ Cuisines. LMZ Cuisines is part of the Landmark Zenath Group, a leading business house of UAE, based in Dubai
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| Philippine Business Council president, Lucille Ong, and LSE secretariat Armand, Ella and Bobbie |
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| ...and with the manager, and Ms. Lalaine Chu-Benitez, EIC of Illustrado |
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