Behold! While I transport you to the peaceful islands of Greece far from the maddening crowd of Dubai. Read the review for Taverna, Authentic Greek Restaurant in Dubai.
No, I am not going to take you there, in fact I bring Greek to Dubai! Yes! Wait till you see the pictures and taste the authentic Greek food, you’ll then find it easier to believe! Say Hello to Taverna, The Greek Restaurant in Dubai.
Taverna Greek restaurant review
The moment you enter Taverna, the Greek kitchen located in Madinat Jumeirah you will be transported to some cozy local restaurant located on an isolated beautiful Greek Island. The rustic yet chic decor, the beautiful amalgamation of whites and pastels, the live kitchen, everything looks straight out of Greece!
About the Ambiance-
Great Attention has been paid to the details. I personally loved the Greek-theme and how they have kept it all rustic in order to give the restaurant a cozy feel, just like how you would see in a small local restaurant. It’s a fine blend of rustic yet elegant design. Great attention has been paid to the details, live kitchen, fresh fish and fruits on the display, everything just adds a very local vibe! (If you know what I mean!)
Sumptuous Food at Taverna
About the Food-
Guests can expect some authentic Greek dishes such as grilled octopus, souvlaki skewers and moussaka, as well as some more Dubai options, such as Sea Bass carpaccio, Pink Snapper and Calamari. Choose your fish, and have it grilled on the wood-fire grill, baked or salt baked with lemon and oil and served with fresh herbs. (I am drooling while writing this!)
Taverna Greek RestaurantDrinks at Taverna Restaurant
About the Drinks-
Being a fan of Mock-tails and Fusion drinks, I have to say that I was pretty impressed. They have a fine selection of Alcoholic as well as Non Alcoholic Beverages. If you visit this place then you have to try their drinks! It just cannot be missed!
Desserts at Taverna
Overall-
Overall, if you are looking for a place that serves authentic Greek food and has a relaxed/cozy ambiance then this place shouldn’t be missed at all. Read more such reviews here.
Are you currently writing guest posts and are completely confused as to where to begin from and what to do! I see this problem all too often when I’m consulting bloggers. Not many people realize the importance and significance of using guest posts as a lead generation strategy because some don’t see the benefits and those who do, don’t know where to begin, what to do. In this post, we will talk about everything related to writing Guest Posts. Also, I will share a list of guest post sites in Dubai.
Guest Post sites in Dubai
Often bloggers prefer to put more efforts into publishing blogs on their own sites rather than working for a blog for another website. If this sounds like you, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity here!
If you’re not convinced that guest blogging will benefit your business, this is the perfect guide for you. Those of you who want to begin guest blogging but don’t know how to start or turn these posts into site traffic, you’re in luck as well.
As a guest blogger myself, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about the topic so you can increase traffic to your website and also understand how this works. I have also made a list of all the popular websites that accept guest posts in Dubai. So, let’s dive in.
Why write Guests Posts?
Guest posting is one of the most popular link building technique used by many SEO professionals around the world. Unlike other SEO techniques such as directory submission, forum link submission, profile link creation, classified link submission, blog commenting and web 2.0 sites creation. Guest Posting is only a highly powerful link building technique that will quickly increase your SERP Rankings and Domain Authority.
How to find guest posts opportunity?
Now you’ve considered why and where you’d like to submit your guest blog post- you need to find where there are opportunities to do so:
Here are a couple of ways to get the ball rolling:
Google searches – Google is the best place to start with this. This simple keyword exercise will help you get the ball rolling. All you need to do is replace the keyword below with a keyword within your industry and let the search begin!
keyword +
“submit a guest post”
“guest post”
“guest post by”
“accepting guest posts”
“guest post guidelines
How to write and submit a guest post?
Here are some things to keep in mind when writing and submitting a guest blog or post:
Don’t make it too self-promotional!
Editors will disregard pitches they consider to be self-promotional. And they can see it coming a mile off. Guest articles should stand up as valuable sources of information for a website’s readership, not an advertisement for your business. Occasional mentions, stories and examples are OK but do not go overboard. Don’t blow your own trumpet and try to keep any info regarding yourself in the writer’s bio.
Include internal and source links.
It’s also worth including some internal links to other articles in the publication. This shows you’ve done your research and have written content that their audience will be interested in.
Format in a similar way.
Does the site use…
-Headers
-Bolded text
-A lot of images
-Quotes
-Any other special formatting
Make sure you stick to the style guide and get a feel for their writing style. The guest posting guidelines should provide all the information you need to know about this.
Including subsections to organize your article.
Formatting in a style similar to the website you’re writing for is important. However, so is including subsections and subheadings throughout your content. It’s fair to take it as read that the publication you’re pitching to will prefer it this way too. This will not only benefit you when organizing and collaborating all your themes and ideas, but it will also make your articles easier for readers to use, increasing the likelihood of them staying on the page.
Looking for best guest post sites in Dubai? Check out my handpicked list.
I tried (drank and rinsed my hair!) Apple Cider Vinegar for 30 days and documented my overall experience. One product for skin, hair and health, read on to know how to use it and why to use it and which ACV to use. Bringing you “How, Why, What and Which” of Apple Cider Vinegar in a single post.
Apple Cider Vinegar for 30 days
Disclaimer- Please read it carefully.
“Dear Readers,
Every person is different, what suits one might not suit another. Please consult a doctor before trying any new health/fitness regime. Owner of this blog shall not be responsible for any injuries/side effects whatsoever. This is a personal experiment and the results are based on my own experience. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.” Happy Reading! xoxo
When they say “Your selfie is 90% your hair” I never use to agree until I noticed that I had the most horrible hair related issues (and split ends, and dandruff and so on! Thanks to Dubai weather!). I was always conscious of my hair (Remember that cringe-worthy ad of Head and Shoulders!) I was frantically searching for a solution to stop this before it was too late. Tried changing my shampoo and conditioner (we will talk about these two in upcoming posts!) I took Hair Supplements (read the blogpost here)
And then lightning strikes and I decided to try Apple Vinegar Cider! I spent hours and days and maybe months reading and researching about it and in the end felt I wish there was Just One Single Post that would give me the basic “What, Why, Which and How” of using ACV. This is when I decided to write this post.
What is Apple Cider Vinegar? (ACV)
You must have heard about Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) lately unless you live on Mars! Just kidding, well these days almost everyone seems to be talking about it. For centuries, vinegar has been used for various household and cooking purposes. It is also an ancient folk remedy, claimed to help with all sorts of health problems. It seems to be the In-Thing these days, from adding it to salads to rinsing hair, from making a facial mask to drinking it (Did I mention that I drink it once or twice a month for detox!)! The list of uses is endless, the possibility of what you can do with it is just unbelievable. So what Is this Apple Cider Vinegar aka ACV? Basically it’s just rotten apples, just kidding (ignore my lame jokes!)
What is Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
WebMD describes Apple cider vinegar as, “Mostly apple juice, but adding yeast turns the fruit sugar into alcohol — this is fermentation. Bacteria turn the alcohol into acetic acid. That’s what gives vinegar its sour taste and strong smell.”
Why use Apple cider vinegar?
Well, I can probably write a book on this and still have reasons left! Let me try to list out the categories where you can probably use ACV:
Weight loss
Detox
Flushes out the toxins
Skin (A boon for people with Acne and Oily skin)
Hair
Gums
Cleaning (Yes!)
Bath soak
Foot Soak
Salads
Phew, I promise I can go on and on for this!
Which Apple Cider Vinegar to use?
With so many brands and so many types of ACV present in the market, it is almost impossible to decide which one to go for. Obviously you don’t want to go for something that will give you unsatisfactory results. Look for ACV that is Raw, Organic and Unfiltered, if possible with “Mother” in it. (I found this mother part really funny but it just means that it has those tiny-winy particles still in it.
and finally ‘How’ to use Apple Cider Vinegar?
My personal Experiment with Apple cider Vinegar (for Hair)-
So, here is my experience with it! As you must have figured out by now, I am up for anything that is Natural and Organic, when I started doing my own Research on ACV I was swept off my feet to see the number of uses (and benefits!) it has. It was almost like a Genie in a bottle waiting to be freed and cast his spell on me (Over-dramatic. Blaming it on Bollywood movies.) I realized the maximum time I spent was in deciding which brand to use! Took almost a month to find ACV that was Organic, Natural, Un-distilled, and also had Mother in it. I didn’t want to go blindly with Braggs, even though it has been regarded as the undisputed king of ACV world.
To begin with, I diluted 1 cup of ACV in about 1-litre water. After I had shampooed my hair I lowered my head in the basin and poured it from root to tip. Let the water pass through your hair and wait for the water to drip down. Give it around 5 minutes. Then towel dry as usual. Side by side, I also drank Apple Cider Vinegar every morning for detox and so see if it actually does anything!
Steps to prepare the Hair Rinse:
Mix 1 cup of ACV in 1000ml of water.
Rinse your hair with this after shampooing.
Leave it on for 5 min.
Towel dry your hair.
Hello Beautiful and Healthy Hair!
The first that I noticed was, it smells horrible. For a person who loves to smell good always and makes sure that everything around is smelling good as well, this was a Big Big turn off, although the smell went away after an hour or so. I continued this for 10 days, I noticed there was a noticeable reduction in the split ends, my hair was more manageable. I continued using it for another couple of days.
Steps to prepare Apple Cider Vinegar Drink:
Take a glass of lukewarm water.
Add a teaspoon of honey (preferably organic).
Add a teaspoon of ACV (refer to what’s mentioned in the post on which ACV to buy)
Drink this first thing in the morning at least 30 minutes before eating anything.
Don’t forget to brush your teeth after drinking it as ACV is acidic and can harm the teeth enamel.
Honestly, It does taste horrible and I kept reminding myself that it’s all about developing a taste! I started with half a teaspoon and I also took a gap of 2 days to see if my body reacted normally (Very important, don’t just start a new regime without testing it first and giving your body time to adjust). Somehow I actually got used to that bitter-sour taste and if you ask me now I don’t loathe drinking it as much as I did it initially! (Hurray!)
After 10 days–
Observation:
My hair is manageable (coming from a person who struggles with frizzy hair, you got to give it a point!)
Split-ends have reduced a bit.
A slight reduction in dandruff has reduced, not too sure at this point.
Drinking ACV hasn’t helped me with anything so far. I do, however, feel that I am pooing more than usual! Lol (So tempted to insert a Poo-Joke here!)
I kept the bottle in my washroom to make sure I don’t skip this routine and it was easier to remember when I had this Dark bottle staring right in my face! Observation after completing 20 days-
After 20 Days–
Observation:
My hair has a subtle shine, which is very unusual for me, I have the frizziest-hair you can imagine!
Hair feels smooth, again Very unusual for my hair!
I feel I am getting used to this pungent smell. Aaarrgggghh. Not sure if this is a plus point!
I am all smiles while writing this but I feel I am breaking out way lesser now! I usually have a pimple or two always on my face (Well! Let’s say most of the times).
Haven’t reduced any weight but my stomach is a little less flabby! (Tell me I am not imagining this!)
I feel really light after drinking it.
I am excited like a kid in a science project, I couldn’t wait for these 30 days to pass. Here’s a confession- I missed my routine twice in the last 30 days! Once, I had to attend a party and washed my hair in a frenzy and once because… well… I just didn’t want to do it! Call it a mood swing. LoL
After 30 Days! (drum rolls please)-
Observation:
By this time I was (almost) immune to this horrible smell! Plus point!
My hair IS NOW Smooth and Shiny.. not a lot much though!
Split ends are reduced and I cannot be happier!
I noticed a significant reduction in hair fall as well as dandruff, not sure if it was because of ACV or just seasonal, I took it as an effect of ACV!
Hair looks more voluminous.
My hair didn’t get greasy easily.
My skin has cleared out a bit.
Somehow, I did actually lose a little weight, like 1 kilo (Though it wasn’t my plan) it might be as this ACV made me poo so much?!
It is not a very drastic change yet my tummy does feel less flabby.
One of the best after-effects of drinking ACV was, it made me feel really energetic and fresh (even without drinking coffee I felt really wide awake!)
I continued my hair rinse routine (Though, I am not drinking the detox drink in the morning as I am focussing on putting on some weight), unbelievably! As I never thought I would rinse my hair with something that smelled so gross, although I must admit I made it a point not to go out immediately after washing my hair! It isn’t easy to smell gross and go out, which means now I wash my hair a day before going somewhere. The results have been better than I thought they would be and that is what got me hooked to Apple Cider Vinegar.
Overall Observation:
My hair feels fresh and the roots don’t get greasy that quickly.
Noticeable reduction in split ends.
Hair looks healthy and voluminous.
Reduction in hair fall (Insert dancing emoji here!)
Not sure if that’s because of ACV but my hair growth is better than before.
After doing this experiment for 30 days, the bottle of ACV has found a permanent place in my washroom. I try to stick to this regime, if not every single time then at least 80% of the times I wash my hair and then rinse it with ACV.
Let me know if you tried this, or if you know any skin/hair care regime that involves Apple Cider Vinegar. Also, I would love to answer if you have any concerns/queries, just shoot it.
Also, in case you are a dog-parent, don’t forget to read How yo Use Apple Cider Vinegar for you do here.
Cheap Flights anyone?! Let’s face this, the airplane ticket is usually one the most expensive purchases of our trip and if we can (somehow!) save some bucks on that we can easily manage to travel more! Here’s the catch, finding the best airfare deal is like hunting for treasure; it’s easier if you know how and where to look! Here is an expert’s guide on how to find cheap flights. Keep these hacks in mind when searching for cheap flights and your bank account will be thankful for it! So let’s get started!
Catch flights, not feelings!
Tried and tested tips to find Cheap Flights:
1. Keep your searches top secret-
Ever witnessed an increase in flight price after searching it a number of times? Let me tell you, you’re not crazy for thinking that a flight price has changed after searching it a few times in your web browser. Blame it on the cookies in your browser, flight prices do increase when a particular route is repeatedly searched. This is primarily done to scare you into booking the flight quickly. Always search for flights in incognito or private browsing mode to see the lowest prices.
2. Make use of Social Media-
Ok this one might surprise you but guess what, your Social Media accounts might actually help you in saving some bucks! Airlines have started using social media to give exclusive discounts to their followers (to increase their social media following) via promotions, online-only fares and other deals. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Don’t forget to turn on post notifications.
3. Be Flexible-
This tip is a No brainer but still very important if you want to get that cheap flight! Always have a cushion of 2-3 days and you will definitely find a better bargain. You can also refer to monthly/weekly airfare chart that most websites have to get cheap flights.
4. Stay updated-
Stay updated for any drop in the airfare to ensure that you don’t miss that cheap flight. Alternatively, subscribe to websites, most websites give discount/vouchers to their subscribers from time to time. If airlines have left over tickets, they slash prices to make them more appealing to potential travellers. They email these deals right to your inbox. That’s a small price to pay for all the cheap fares you’ll find. Sign up to our mailing list to get the latest discounts.
5. Check One-Way & Round-Trip Fares-
You may think one-way tickets are cheaper 100% of the time, but that isn’t always the case. This tip works better with long-term travel. Depending on your travel plans, flight origin and destination, it might be cheaper to book a round-trip ticket, then skip the return portion.
6. Use A VPN (Virtual Private Network)-
VPNs allow you to change the location you’re currently browsing from to another country or city. This lets you take advantage of local prices (especially on domestic flights). This is because airlines sometimes charge different rates depending on where you complete your purchase.
7. Fly on the cheapest days-
Incase you haven’t noticed it yet or incase you noticed it and thought it to be a coincidence, let me break it to you, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are (comparatively) cheapest days to fly. According to the CheapAir study, the cheapest days to fly are Tuesday and Wednesday, while Sunday is the most expensive.
8. Snagging Deals To Find Cheap Flights To Anywhere-
To find cheap flights to Anywhere, you’ll need some planning, some flexibility, and maybe even a little luck! Many websites (For instance Skyscanner) have recently come up with the feature where you leave the destination box empty and they give you the cheapest flights from the origin. Plan in advance and make use of this feature.
9. Give This Layover Trick A Shot-
One of my all-time favourite ways to book cheap flights is by utilising Skiplagged’s handy dandy Layover Trick. While this little-known tip forces you to only bring a carry-on (which you should already be doing if you want to save money on flights!), it can chisel hundreds off ticket prices.
10. Airports Near Your Destination-
Check prices from airports that are within a few hours’ drive of your departure city and destination. Sometimes you can find much cheaper (or more direct) flights from a nearby airport. This can be especially helpful if the other airport is in a different country.
Love travelling but finances keeping you away from your love?! Learn to travel for FREE here!
Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oils and my obsession with them! In this post learn why you need to give them a try! If you follow my blog and my Instagram account then by now you must be aware that I am clearly way too obsessed with oils and love using them for almost everything!
My obsession with Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oils!
In this post you’ll read:
Introduction
About Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oils– Face (What it does, Features, Ingredients, How to use.)
Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oil- (What it does, Features, Ingredients, How to use.)
Final Verdict!
Bonus: My Tried and Tested Tips for using Oils!
We are going to talk about two different products by Palmer’s, both are from Palmer’s Skin Therapy range, one is designed for the face while the other one can be used on face as well other body parts.
Hello there everyone! Raise your hands if you are still confused if using oil on the face is a good idea!! Honestly, when I first started using Facial Oils, I was so scared that I decided to use only when I didn’t have to go out (Just in case if the oil broke me out!). Contrary to my belief that facial oils are horrible for people with Oily skin, I was surprised to see how good my skin felt after using it! My first facial oil helped me explore the wonderful world of oils and since then there has been no looking back! 😉
I have been religiously using (Can you believe I carry my oils all the way to India with me!) Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oil and Palmer’s Hydration Oil, I love how these two have so many uses and are so versatile. Apart from using on my face and neck, I love using them for my cuticles, my knuckles, stretch marks, they even work really well for the skin around stomach and thighs! I also use them before applying my makeup (in winters) for a dewy glow!
Our first product, Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oils- Face:
This little cute bottle contains an exotic and powerful blend of 10 pure precious oils, Retinol, Vitamin C and Palmer’s exclusive Cetesomate-E® Complex. (By it here) The lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving greasiness, the Cetesomate Complex helps in delivering all of the essential vitamins and nutrients directly into the epidermal layer of our skin. This baby helps in making the skin look younger, gives a glowing and firmer appearance.
Formulated to Help Improve the Appearance of:
Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Hydrates the skin and helps in reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Dark Spots: Helps in diminishing scar’s and Dark Spot’s appearance.
Uneven skin tone: Targets marks and spots and helps even skin tone for a more perfect complexion.
Ageing Skin: Helpful for matured skin, gives the skin a younger and youthful appearance.
Key Features:
Comes in a bottle with a dropper
Easy to carry packaging
Multiple Uses
Dermatologist Tested
Paraben & Phthalate Free
Key ingredients:
Cocoa Butter: A rich natural moisturiser that leaves skin soft and silky, transforming even the roughest, driest areas into buttery soft. It also helps in making the skin tone more even.
Exotic Blend of 10 Oils: Sesame Oil, Coconut Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil, Apricot Oil, Argan Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Rosehip Oil, Camelina Oil and Sunflower Oil. It is enriched with essential vitamins and nutrients that soften, smoothen and plump your skin while visibly rejuvenating and toning it.
Retinol: Advanced anti-ageing ingredient that helps in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and smoothen the skin texture.
Vitamin C: It is a natural antioxidant that helps in brightening the skin and reduce dark spots.
How I use Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oil-Face?
I wash my face with a cleanser and pat dry.
Then apply my facial mist so that the face becomes damp.
Using the dropper, I drop a drop on my forehead, each cheek, chin and 2 drops on the neck.
Massage gently till it is absorbed.
Sunburn Alert:
This product contains retinol that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun and increase the possibility of sunburn. Always use a good quality of sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure while using this product.
Our second product, Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oil:
A light-weight, multi-purpose formula that helps in improving the appearance of Scars, Stretch Marks, Dry/Damaged Skin, Uneven skin tone, Ageing skin, etc. The oil gives the skin a subtle glow without making it greasy or breaking it out. A fine blend of some exotic ingredients like Cocoa Butter, Vitamin E, Canola Oil, Argan Oil, Sesame oil, etc. As I mentioned earlier, this oil is a multi-purpose oil and can be used as a facial oil and can be used on the body as well. (You can order it here)
Formulated to Help Improve the Appearance of:
Scars: Helps diminish scar’s appearance.
Stretch marks: Helps improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Dry and damaged skin: Deeply moisturising ingredients absorb quickly while improving skin’s moisture levels. Skin looks hydrated, firmer and plumper.
Uneven skin tone: Targets marks and spots and helps even skin tone for a more perfect complexion.
Ageing skin: Keeps skin conditioned, forming a protective barrier while allowing the skin to breathe.
Key Features:
No Mess Pump Dispenser
Multiple uses
Easy to carry packaging
Dermatologist Tested
No Mineral Oil
Paraben & Phthalate Free
Key ingredients:
Cocoa Butter: A rich natural moisturiser that leaves skin soft and silky, transforming even the roughest, driest areas into buttery soft skin.
Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that helps improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks and imperfections on the skin, giving a more even and toned appearance.
Canola Oil: Helps even skin tone by targeting marks and spots while moisturising for and conditioning the skin. Rosehip Oil: Contains essential fatty acids, Vitamin C and Vitamin A to promote healthy skin cell rejuvenation.
Cetesomate-E: Helps improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, dry, damaged skin, uneven skin tone, ageing skin and fine lines and wrinkles.
Sesame Oil: Moisturises deeply to improve skin’s moisture levels leaving it looking more hydrated, firmer and plumper.
How I use Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oil?
For Face and Neck-
I wash my face with a cleanser and pat dry.
Then apply my facial mist so that the face becomes damp.
Using the dropper, I drop a drop on my forehead, each cheek, chin and 2 drops on the neck.
Massage gently till it is absorbed.
For other body parts-
I wash and pat dry the body part, follow it up with a body scrub to remove dead skin. (I Love using it on my tummy, and thighs)
Using the pump, apply liberally on the affected area.
Massage gently till it is absorbed.
Final Verdict!
I love the fact that Palmer’s products are easily available in UAE and abroad, so I don’t really have to worry about them being unavailable. Apart from availability of the products, I love Palmer’s for being so active and taking steps for the environment.a
To begin with, I don’t have wrinkles or ageing skin. However, I do have (many!) dark spots all over my face and I plan to use this Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oil for Face to see if it will help in reducing my dark spots. Right now, I can vouch for the fact that it moisturises my skin and makes it glow and gives a dewy appearance (I love using it before bedtime and the skin looks so good in the morning! **Touchwood** hehe)
Prior to using the Palmer’s Skin Therapy Oil for Face, I was already using the regular Skin Therapy Oil (I used it mainly for a scar on my arm) hence with consistent use, I know that it really does help to lighten the appearance of the scars. Check out more product reviews here.
My Tried and Tested Tips for using Oils!
When is the best time to apply oils? How much oil should you be using? What other products should you be using in combination with your oils? Here are some basic tips to help you get the most out of your Facial Oils:
You can Combine Oils With Serums or Moisturisers.
ALWAYS do a patch test.
It is advisable to apply oil on damp skin.
Pay attention to Day and Night time oils.
Do not Rub or Massage your face vigorously.
Avoid exposure to dust and heat when you have your oil on. (Basic!)
Always clean your face before applying oil.
Don’t Overdo it, a couple of drops is all you need.
There’s no “one size fits all” in skincare, pay attention to your skin.
Note: I received these products by Palmer’s to be reviewed. However, all views and opinions are honest and solely based on my experience.
Lokma or Luqma (Arabic: لقمة) are pastries made of leavened and deep fried dough, soaked in syrup or honey, sometimes coated with cinnamon or other ingredients.
Wikipedia
What is Loqma or Lokma?
I had tasted lugaimat in the UAE but I never knew that this dessert is popular in Turkey as well! So you may understand it in this way, Lokma is the Turkish sister of Lugaimat and it’s a traditional Ottoman sweet! Now that you know about it, let’s read about Loqmato that claims “One Bite is all it takes!”
Loqmato- One bite is all it takes!
Let’s talk about Loqmato!
It gives my inner sugar-holic self immense pleasure to introduce you to Loqmato. A new restaurant in the food court in The Dubai Mall that specialises in Lokma. A fried dough ball that is injected with finger licking good fillings, then smeared with sauces like chocolate, honey, or pistachio and finally sprinkled with toppings (Mouth Watering!)
Loqmato in The Dubai Mall
My favourite and the most mesmerising part was watching through the glass window as the lokma was being prepared. Watching the machine that drops the dough into the hot oil, then injecting different fillings like cream, chocolate, caramel or cheese, etc into each lokma and finally topping it up with some delicious toppings.
The Chocolate Lokmas are a dream come true for chocoholics – both filled and topped with melty Belgian chocolate! Six Lukmas with a Turkish tea costs only AED 19 so it’s not at all heavy on your pocket! You can also get extra toppings at only AED 3. They also have various combo offers. Apart from Turkish Tea, another must-try drink is their Lemonade that’s a blessing in scorching Dubai Heat.
Final verdict
Loqmato has won my heart and I will definitely visit it again! Read Zomato restaurant reviews here and blogposts on restaurant here.
With decadent pasta and Gelato to indulge in, places to shop for everything from handicrafts to Haute couture, Archaeological sites, Baroque churches, Villas-turned-into-museums, and enough art to overload all your senses! Whether you’ve never visited Rome or return often, here are a few ultimate things to do in Rome.
Roman Colosseum
Best Things to Do in Rome (Italy)
Rome stands as one of the finest and oldest cities in the world. The history of Rome spans over 2500 years and it has been a center of power, politics, culture and development. Various Roman emperors have ruled mighty Rome and this is the place where the colossal Roman Empire grew from. Various monuments, palaces and religious buildings have been constructed in the city and these now stand as beautiful tourist attractions. Rome is ranked as one of the top tourist destinations and with sights such as the Colosseum, it’s easy to see why!
Ultimate things to do in Rome
Some of the Ultimate things to do In Rome:
Visit the Colosseum – No visit to Rome is complete without a visit to the Roman Colosseum. One of the most recognised landmarks in the world. The Colosseum is one of the most iconic symbol of ancient imperial Rome. This has to be in the list for ultimate things to do in Rome!
Visit the enchanting at St Peter’s Square – One of the largest and most beautiful squares in the world. It is located in Vatican City, at the feet of St. Peter’s Basilica. Most impressive part of the square, besides its size, are its 284 columns and 88 pilasters that flank the square. In the liturgies and more noticeable events St. Peter’s Square has held more than 300,000 people.
St. Peter’s Basilica – The history behind the creation of St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome is almost as amazing as the building itself. After the first Basilica was knocked down, it took 100 years to rebuild, and some of the most famous architects contributed to its design. If you are planning a visit to Rome, then you can’t miss St Peter’s Basilica.
Discover The Pantheon – The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome. The structure, completed around 126-128 A.D. during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, features a rotunda with a massive domed ceiling that was once the largest of its kind.
Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain – If you’ve been to Rome, you’ve probably tossed a coin into the Trevi Fountain like thousand other visitors. The tradition gained popularity after it was the theme of the 1954 romantic comedy Three Coins in the Fountain, but it started long before the movie. It was said that a thirst quenching glass of water from the Trevi Fountain would ensure good fortune and a fast return to the Eternal City. Over time the legend of the Trevi Fountain evolved to tossing a coin in to ensure a return to Rome.
Visit the eerie Capuchin Crypt, decorated with the bones of 4,000 Capuchin Monks – Though it’s not meant to be a macabre sight, the Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini is spine-tingling. This Roman church is decorated with the skeletal remains of more than 4,000 human bodies. A plaque in the crypt reads: “What you are now, we once were; what we are now, you shall be.”
Visit “The Wedding Cake” Building aka Altar of the Fatherland – The colossal monument, which is 135 meters wide and 70 meters high, is comprised of scores of majestic Corinthian columns and endless stairs, carved in white marble. The top is crowned with an equestrian sculpture of Victor Emmanuel in bronze and two chariots driven by the goddess Victoria.
Uplift your spirits at the colourful Spanish Steps – With its irregular butterfly design, the beautiful “Scalina Spagna”, or Spanish Steps are definitely in one of the Ultimate Things to do in Rome, and a great example of Roman Baroque Style. It’s a great place to just sit down and enjoy the atmosphere and views of the Eternal City. The steps are a wide irregular gathering place consisted of 138 steps placed in a mix of curves, straight flights, vistas and terraces.
Relive history at the Roman Forum – Occupying a sprawling space between the Colosseum, the Capitoline Hill, and the storied Palatine Hill, the Forum was the center of political, religious, and commercial life of ancient Rome and provides insight into the splendour that once was the Roman Empire. The Via dei Fori Imperiali, a wide boulevard built during the reign of Mussolini in the early 20th century, forms the eastern edge of the Forum.
Go for a Rome at Night tour – Rome is even more magical in the evening than it is during the daytime. The monuments and fountains are lit up, the Piazzas hum with the energy of the excited locals and tourists alike, and the restaurants offer delicious food, wine and conversation. So, while you are in Rome, don’t forget to go for a Night Tour.
Visit The Four River Gods at Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi – The four river Gods are the protagonists of the Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi) by Bernini in Piazza Navona, Rome, known as one of Rome’s finest fountains.
Treat yourself with local delicacies – Roman cuisine is loved for being exceedingly flavourful, simple and satisfying. Don’t forget to indulge in some sumptuous local street food while visiting this place. Try some Allesso di Bollito, Fried Artichokes, Carbonara, etc.
The Palmer’s new Coconut Oil Anti-Oxidant Firming Lotion and Sheet Mask, two hero products for toned, firm and radiant skin this summer. So are you ready to get that toned and firm beach body?
Palmer’s new Coconut Oil Anti-Oxidant Firming Lotion and Sheet Mask Review
About Palmer’s Coconut Oil Anti-Oxidant Firming Lotion and Sheet Mask-
The Palmer’s new Coconut Oil Anti-Oxidant Firming Lotion and Sheet Mask are two Super-hero products that will ensure you get supple, radiant and firm skin this summer. The two step range is packed with some super-botanicals such as Seaweed Extracts and Brazilian Guarana sustainably sourced coconut and sweet almond oils.These products are made in order to deliver targeted toning to areas such as thighs, hips, stomach, upper arms or buttocks and result in a firmer, toner and smoother appearing body. *Starts preparing for the beach party*
What exactly Palmer’s Coconut Oil Anti-Oxidant Firming Lotion and Firming Sheet Mask does?
Palmer’s Coconut Oil Anti-oxidant Firming Lotion is a body lotion that uses the skin-toning properties of natural ingredients such as Seaweed, Coconut oil, Sweet Almond oil and Caffeine to get skin looking its best. It naturally tones and tightens, resulting in a visibly firmer, smoother appearance. It includes no parabens, no phthalates, no mineral oil, no gluten and no dyes! Formulated with ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients.
98% of women* tested found that their skin appeared firmer and more toned after incorporating this lotion into their daily skin care regime.
Palmers
*Independent 4 week in-home user trial, 50 subjects.
Key Features-
No Parabens
Free from Phthalates
Doesn’t contain Mineral oil
No Gluten or Dyes
Formulated with Ethically and Sustainably Sourced Ingredients
Palmer’s Is Against Animal Testing
Let’s talk about the ingredients of Palmer’s Coconut Oil Anti-Oxidant Firming Lotion and Sheet Mask–
The following ingredients pack a powerhouse of toning magic into every drop and this is how they work together:
Vitamin E – Hydrates the skin and supports skin firming.
Sweet Almond Oil – Improves skin’s elasticity and helps tone.
Caffeine – Improves circulation for a smoother appearance.
Aloe Extract – Improves skin’s elasticity and helps in toning the skin.
Guarana Extract – Provides twice the potency of caffeine for a (Hurrah!) slimmer and more toned figure.
Capuacu – Improves skin’s moisture barrier and offers hydration for improved elasticity.
How to use Palmer’s Coconut Oil Anti-Oxidant Firming Lotion and Sheet Mask?
So you can either use both the products together or separately. I have listed down the steps for using them separately.
Lotion:
Use daily after thoroughly cleaning the skin to moisturise and tone. Massage into skin in a circular motion, concentrating on problem areas. For better results start by applying Palmer’s Coconut Oil Body Firming Sheet Mask to target areas, then follow by applying Palmer’s Coconut Oil Anti-Oxidant Firming Lotion all over your body. Not only it smells delicious but it does a fantastic job at moisturising and hydrating the skin. I’ve been loving Palmer’s products for a while now and they have everything that I always look for in body or hair or skin care products. You can buy this firming lotion here.
Sheet:
Step 1– Use on the clean and dry skin. Carefully remove the sheets from the pouch.
Step 2 – Apply to the target area, such as upper arm, thigh, stomach, hip, or buttock. Gently press to smooth into place. Repeat on another side with the second sheet (Each pouch contains 2 sheets).
Step 3– Leave the sheet on for 10 minutes. You may feel a cool, tingling sensation. Remove the sheet, massage excess product into the skin. Tadaa! Say Hello to your Firmer-Self!
My Experience-
Firming Sheets:
Each pouch has 2 sheets inside it, I decided to use them with a gap of 2 days in between each application to see how it feels like! I decided to use the sheets on my outer thighs, which I feel do need some toning. (I used the sheets post bath, on towel dried skin) The sheets are completely soaked in a thick yet not sticky lotion. To be honest I love the smell! Placed the sheets on both the sides and pressed gently and left it for 15 minutes.
I felt a very little tingling sensation, thankfully it wasn’t uncomfortable at all. After removing the sheets and massaged the excess lotion into the skin. Was really tempted to use the same sheets on my tummy as it still had a lot of lotion left! LoL
The body firming sheet mask has Brazilian Guarana to encourage blood flow and improve firmness, giving a more slender appearance. As a result, the skin looked so hydrated and needless to say smelled so good! To my surprise, yes it did work! I could see how the skin looked more toned and firm. Surprisingly, after second application (after 2 days) a couple of the stretch marks also disappeared! Which I didn’t even expect as I was hoping only for firmer and toner thighs!! (Yayy!! Bonus!) You can use these daily for intensified effects and they’re safe to use on the upper arms, thighs, hips, stomach or buttocks. You can buy these firming sheets here.
Lotion:
I’ve been using this anti-oxidant firming lotion every day and I really enjoy the lightweight texture, the coconut smell and the fact that it quickly gets absorbed into the skin. There is no greasy residue and my skin feels smooth and hydrated. The flip lid is easy to open and the pack is easy to carry and the tube stands well on the lid. The moisturiser is white, medium thickness and creamy, easy to apply and absorbs well. I can feel my skin tighten within a couple of minutes and skin feels beautifully hydrated all day and there is no greasy feel. Good value for money.
About Palmers-
Owned and managed by E. T. Browne (In The Middle East) Limited. E.T. Browne Drug Company is one of the longest standing proprietors of skin and hair care products in the United States. The company has been family owned since the middle of the nineteenth century and has been under the current ownership since 1971. E.T. Browne Drug Company has been headquartered in New Jersey for over 50 years.
Palmer’s uses only the finest ingredients to provide consumers the highest quality formulas at affordable prices. All the products are hand crafted based on Palmer’s long standing heritage and experience in offering superior formulations that deliver results. This is why Palmer’s promise to its consumers has always been an unconditional guarantee of quality.
Rainbow Diet, just as colorful and exciting as it sounds! This diet is said to have numerous health benefits. In this post, learn the easy way to start this diet and why you need to try it.
Rainbow Diet
Am I the only one who is tired of age old green-leafy salads? Let me make your diet colorful, in fact very colorful! Heard about Rainbow Diet? This diet trend is just as interesting as it sounds!
Why you need to try Rainbow Diet?
We all know that fruits and vegetables get their color from the micro-nutrients that they contain. Vitamins and Phyto-nutrients are responsible for providing these colorful hues varying in each and every plant source. This is why it is very important for you to eat All the colors of the rainbow, say hello to “Rainbow Diet” Which means a diet abundant in all the nutritional colors (i.e. yellow, orange, red, green, blue, indigo, purple) is essential for optimal health. These powerful antioxidants help to establish a strong defense system to support a bulletproof immune system and equip your body to combat the development of diseases.
To simplify the Rainbow Diet for you-
To make it even more easy-peasy for you I am gonna list down (at the end of the article) fruits and vegetable according to their color so you have your grocery list ready with you, just screenshot and head to the nearest store! You’re welcome! 😉
The main benefit a Rainbow diet is ensuring that you eat All the colors which in turn means you will get all the different vitamins and minerals, remember we talked about how each color denotes presence of a unique set of vitamins and minerals.
My Rainbow diet
Let’s talk about colors and the benefits:
Blue/Purple
Science behind the color:
The blue/purple hues in foods are due primarily to their anthocyanin content. The darker the blue hue, the higher the phytochemical concentration. Anthocyanins are antioxidants that are particularly heart healthy and may help support healthy blood pressure.
Violet/Indigo
Science behind the color:
Grapes, black beans, black cherries, prunes, raisins, boysenberries, mangosteens, passion fruit, purple cabbage, plums, and flowers from sage, rosemary, and thyme plants contain flavonoids, antioxidants, vitamin D, phytochemicals, and fatty acids (essential to proper brain function).
Red
Science behind the color:
A meta-analysis (a super-study which collates the findings of earlier research) has confirmed lycopene, the phytonutrient which makes tomatoes red, cuts the risk of prostate cancer by 20 per cent. Having a lot of tomatoes in the diet also appears to protect against breast and neck cancer.
Tomatoes are also a good source of potassium which helps maintain electrical activity in the heart and counters some of the damage caused by a high-salt diet. A carotenoid, lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that has been associated with a reduced risk of some cancers, especially prostate cancer, and protection against heart attacks.
Green
Science behind the color:
The natural plant pigment chlorophyll colors green fruits and vegetables. In our system, the green foods represented those foods rich in isothiocyanates, which induce enzymes in the liver that assist the body in removing potentially carcinogenic compounds. According to information from the PBH, cruciferous veggies such as broccoli and cabbage contain the phytochemicals indoles and isothiocyanates, which may have anticancer properties.
Green vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin K, folic acid, potassium, as well as carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids.
Yellow/Green
Science behind the color:
A variation of the green color category, these foods exhibit a richness in lutein. Lutein is particularly beneficial for eye health,There are lutein receptors in the macula of the eye, and lutein helps protect against age-related macular degeneration.
White:
Science behind the color:
Unlike the manufactured food in which white always means sugar, bleached flour, and food drained of its nutrient profile, white foods in nature are highly nutritious and healing for the body. White foods purifies the blood, detoxifies the liver, regulates healthy cellular growth, and reduces inflammation that can damage the vascular system. Foods that comprise the onion family are loaded with the anti-inflammatory compound allicin. Allicin is a sulfur containing compound that destroys viruses, bacteria, and fungi and inhibits cancer growth.
Violet/Indigo- Grapes, black beans, black cherries, prunes, raisins, boysenberries, mangosteens, passion fruit, purple cabbage, plums,
Red- Tomatoes and tomato products, watermelon, pink grapefruit, cranberries, Pomegranates, Raspberries, Strawberries, Red Apples, Red Peppers and Chillies
Green- Broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, Watercress, Spinach, Lettuce, Alfalfa, Green Peppers, Green Grapes, Nori Seaweed
Yellow/Orange and Yellow/Green- Avocado, kiwifruit, pistachios, Green Apples, Green Grapes, guava, Sweet Potato, Carrots
White- White Onion, Garlic, Cauliflower, Chicory, Mushrooms, White Cabbage, White Beans.
Bonus for trying this diet, you can take some Insta-worthy shots of this diet since it is already a trend on Instagram.
I know the struggle of picking that unique gift from Dubai to gift your loved ones, something that they would love at the same time it’s something good and pure. So when I saw Camel Soap, I decided to give them a try before i would start gifting it to all my near an dear ones ’cause I am sure this is something they wouldn’t find anywhere else (Guess what, it will fit your budget too! Yay)
What’s more, they also have a Luxury Soap range, available in exotic Aroma Wood, Oriental Oud, so on.. Just in case you are looking for something Luxurious! Camel Soap Factory also has soaps available in exclusive gift boxes apart from normal individual packs. You can buy them from all leading stores (I bought mine from Amazon) or you can even order online.
So if you are wondering what’s so special about Camel Milk Soaps and why you need to start using this soap for skin? Interested in skincare, read more here! Read On!
So many variants- Camel Soap
Fact Sheet about Camel Soap-
Milk has long been a revered cosmetic ingredient. Using camel fat and milk to protect their skin from the sun. Scientific studies in the Middle East and Europe have proven the unusual medicinal properties and healing benefits of camel milk.
Camel milk contains valuable alpha hydroxyl acids which plump the skin and smooth fine lines. It also has a high vitamin and mineral content, especially rich in vitamin C (three times more than cow milk) which is important for tissue repair, as well as 10 times the amount of iron (compared to cow milk) and vitamin A, B2 and D, potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, sodium and zinc.
Camel milk contains protective proteins with powerful anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties.
No Parabens or Sulfates,
Free from artificial colours, fragrances and dyes,
Doesn’t contain any chemical additives or potentially harmful preservatives.
Natural and Handmade.
Each bar contains a minimum of 25% Camel milk and luxury range contains a minimum of 33%
