Dec_Jan 2021

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Celebrate the holiday
season in this picture

perfect winter
destination.

Written and photographed
by Samar Samir

DECEMBER 2021 51

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Vienna is one of the most popular tourist destina-
tions in Europe, and over Christmas the white
snow and bustling Christmas markets in major
squares such as Karlsplatz and Maria-Theresien-
Platz are a huge tourist attraction. Stroll around and enjoy
the beauty and authenticity of the display of gifts and sou-
venirs, most of which are handmade. In addition to jewelry,
crystals and lanterns, there is also a variety of traditional
foods; be sure you try the nuts sweetened with caramel.

Coffee lovers should head straight to Cafe Central, one
of the oldest and most famous coffee shops in Vienna, dat-
ing back to 1876. But beware, you’ll have to wait in a long
queue at the door until a table is free. At the door you will
be welcomed by a statue of Austrian poet and writer Peter
Altenberg, who was a Cafe Central patron. The minute you
walk in you will be dazzled by the bright golden colors of
the interior, with its reddish cushioned seats and marble
pillars. Foamy Wiener melange, which is one of the main
coffees that Vienna is famous for, is highly recommended,
and if you’re feeling a bit hungry pair it with a cheese sand-
wich.

Walking around this piece of paradise on earth, you’ll
find that the illustrious history of different civilizations,
including the Egyptian, the Greek, the Roman, and the
European, comes together wherever you look. Being an
Egyptian, your eyes will spontaneously be drawn to a
name familiar to most Egyptians: Aida. Austrian couple

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Josef Bouresk and his wife named their shop after Verdi’s
“Aida,” the opera that depicts the conflict between love and
national duty in Egypt’s Old Kingdom. The opera was cre-
ated upon orders by Khedivi Ismail to be performed during
the Suez Canal Inauguration in 1871. At this coffee shop
you’ll be enjoying desserts and coffees rather than opera
music.

If you are a museum aficionado, don’t miss the opportu-
nity to visit the Austrian National Library Museum where
180,000 Egyptian papyri, manuscripts, parchments and os-
traca are housed. The library has a Department of Egyptian
Papyri, in addition to several books that discuss Egyptol-
ogy and archaeology. The Papyri museum hosts 400 pa-
pyri including ancient tomes like the Dead of Sesostris and
Taruma Book of the Dead, which talks about the cult of
the dead in Ancient Egypt. The library also has four other
museums (Literature Museum, Globe Museum, Esperanto
Museum, and House of Austrian History), besides the state
hall, which exhibits thousands of historical volumes.

The National Library is not the only landmark that
hosts Egyptian treasures. In the vicinity of Maria-There-
sien-Platz, the Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna (Art His-
tory Museum) has four rooms housing more than 17,000

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Egyptian artifacts. So, seize this wonderful opportunity to
explore the Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection, which
includes sarcophagi, ushabtis, replicas and other Pharaon-
ic statues. The pieces date back to various eras of Egypt’s
history like the Old Kingdom, New Kingdom, Ptolemaic
and Greek-Roman periods.

The Egyptian artifacts can be found on the second floor
and the museum showcases collections of Greek and Ro-
man artifacts and great paintings of Pieter Bruegel the El-
der as well. But before you get there, you will come across
a huge round red table where visitors can enjoy their meals
and drinks after or before their tours of the museum.

In Schoenbrunn, a UNESCO world heritage site, you
will be captivated by the charm of beautiful baroque ar-
chitecture. Your tour of the palace will teach you all about
the Austrian emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth,
fondly known as Sissi, the Empress of Austria and Queen
of Hungary. Each of the 1,440 or so rooms in the palace

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“The Austrian National
Library Museum houses
180,000 Egyptian papyri,
manuscripts, parchments

and ostraca.”

has its own architectural style and color palette, and visi-
tors can enjoy the splendid architectural designs of about
40 rooms if they decide to buy Grand Tour tickets.

If you want to see the city from above, visit the Parter,
the oldest theme garden in Vienna. Get there right before
sunset and ride the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel where you’ll
get to see and feel the sun’s reddish and yellowish colors
reflected on your face.

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Christmas
in Spain

With winter holidays upon us, discover thrilling Spanish destinations for
a festive long-awaited break with your loved ones. 

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Known for its refreshing sunny days
and dazzling beaches, most trav-
elers will not think of Spain as a
holiday destination during winter.
While it is not your typical winter destination,
Spain makes for an ideal getaway for those
looking for a warmer European adventure, a
more extensive cultural experience, and ex-
citing food encounters. Winters in Spain are
equally as impressive as its summers, where
the big cities of Spain compete against each
other to see which city has more to offer. 

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In Seville; the window of Spanish history, one
can visit grand palaces and trek through ancient
streets, all the while enjoying average chill tem-
peratures of around 18C. With this comfortable
weather, travelers are offered a great opportunity
to discover Seville’s incredible heritage and charm-
ing culture, through its numerous theatres, muse-
ums and historical sites. Some of the best experi-
ences would be the Cathedral, Giralda & Alcazar
Guided Tour, where visitors will get the chance to
explore Seville’s grand history through the city’s
famous architectural monuments. Another one
would be the Guadalquivir cruise, where visitors
can enjoy a cruise down the Guadalquivir River
and witness incredible views of the city’s most fa-
mous sights.

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Moving on to a slightly colder area in the south of Spain, Costa del 61
Sol is another incredible winter destination. Having a mild and pleas-
ant climate all year long, winter visitors can make the most of the sun
by visiting beautiful beaches, discover stunning architecture and enjoy
thrilling outdoor activities. This region boasts an abundance of climb-
ing and hiking routes, sightseeing experiences, and natural parks, per-
fect for friends or family seeking a fun-packed adventure. 

Definitely one of Spain’s top destinations all year round, Madrid
must be on every traveler’s bucket list in winter. With average high
temperatures of 10C, travelers will get to explore all this has to offer
without breaking a sweat. Spain’s capital city is home to the striking
Prado Museum, the beautiful Retiro Park and much more. Additional-
ly, there are intriguing parades during the season, including the Three
Kings Parade and others, as well as vintage stores and flea markets that
are ideal for the chilly weather. 

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Located near the snowy mountain
tops of Sierra Nevada; one of Spain’s
prime ski destinations, Granada is the
gem of Andalusia, boasting spectacular
Islamic architecture and offering the
most exciting winter activities. There
is plenty to see and do in this beauti-
ful city; however, one must not miss the
sight of Alhambra; an ancient palace,
fortress and citadel, offering a view of
historic Andalusia. Travelers can also
enjoy the traditional Hammam experi-
ence, where they can dip in hot and cold
pools, and relax in comfortable steam
rooms away from the cold.

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For a more festive holiday, Barcelo-
na is home to the Fira de Santa Lucia;
a traditional Christmas fair the fea-
tures over 300 stalls. The fair’s visitors
will get to enjoy delicious food, browse
unique products, and visit crowded
squares and malls. This beautiful city
also boasts incredible sights such as La
Rambla, Camp Nou, Sagrada Familia
and more. 

Winter in Spain is impressive by
all accounts and offers a fun-packed
experience for all types of travelers.
Whether its outdoor activities, family
destinations, historical sights, cultural
experiences or delicious food, a winter
holiday in Spain will never disappoint.

DECEMBER 2021 63

ClassicetFeature
Christmas
Desserts

These delicious classics look like a dream and are guaranteed to
be the perfect ending to any Christmas meal.

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Festive seasons are all about food and while turkey takes pride of place on the
Christmas table, it’s the sweet classics that make the best ending to any Xmas
spread. Most of the following recipes do require quite a bit of time and effort in
the kitchen, but the good thing is that some can be made well in advance and will
keep. They can also make great options to gift your host if you’re invited to dinner.

Eggnog steady stream until completely incorporated.
•Turn on the burner to lowest possible heat setting.
No need to fear raw eggs in eggnog. The eggs are •Place the pan on the burner and stir mixture con-
gently cooked to kill any potential bacteria in this non-
alcoholic version of the traditional dessert. You will tinuously until an i​nstant-read thermometer reaches
want to keep this rich and creamy eggnog on hand all 160 F and the mixture thickens enough to coat the back
through the holidays. of a spoon. Be patient. This should take about 45 to 60
minutes.
Ingredients
•Strain mixture through a fine sieve into a large bowl
6 large eggs to remove any accidental small cooked bits of egg.
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup sugar (plus 2 tablespoons) •Add vanilla extract and nutmeg, stirring to combine.
1/4 teaspoon salt •Pour into a glass pitcher, decanter, or container and
4 cups whole milk cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Refrigerate this egg cus-
1 tablespoon vanilla extract tard mixture to chill at least 4 hours or up to 3 days
1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg before finishing.
1/4 cup heavy cream (whipped to soft peaks) •When ready to serve, pour heavy cream into a bowl
and whip until it forms soft peaks. Fold whipped cream
Instructions into cold custard mixture until combined.
•Combine eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and salt in a heavy •Serve eggnog in chilled cups or glasses and garnish
pan, whisking until well-combined. with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
—Recipe courtesy thespruceeats.com
•Continue whisking while pouring milk in a slow,

DECEMBER 2021 65

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La Bouche de Noel

Classic yule logs come in countless flavor combina- to a large mixing bowl and beat the mixture on medium
tions but vanilla is one of the favorites among Egyp- speed until it becomes smooth and fluffy.
tian families celebrating Christmas. This snowy look-
ing buche de Noel recipe hides layers of airy vanilla •Switch the mixer speed to low and add the cream
sponge hidden under thick, silky white chocolate but- and vanilla. Beat the frosting on medium speed until it
tercream frosting. Meringue mushrooms are the tradi- becomes fluffy again. Beat in the melted, cooled white
tional choice for garnishing yule log cakes, but this par- chocolate.
ticular dessert looks gorgeous surrounded with edible
sprays of chocolate twigs, sugar-frosted cranberries, and •To assemble the log, unroll the cake and set aside
a light dusting of powdered sugar “snow.” the towel.

Ingredients •Evenly spread 2 cups (or desired amount) of the
white chocolate buttercream on the inside of the cake
For the sponge cake and following its natural curve, gently form it into a
4 eggs (room temperature) cake roll.
2/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract • Cut off the ends of the cake roll on the diagonal
1/4 teaspoon salt and reattach them in the center of the cake with a bit
1 cup cake flour of buttercream to fashion a “branch” coming off the
For the white chocolate buttercream main yule log. Spread the exterior of the buche de noel
9 ounces white chocolate (chopped) with enough white chocolate buttercream to cover it
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (softened) and gently pull a butter knife or small offset spatula
3 3/4 cup powdered sugar through the frosting to give the appearance of rough
1/4 teaspoon salt tree bark.
1/3 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract •Add a Pere Noel figure and marzipan mushrooms to
complete the festive look.
Instructions
•Preheat the oven to 400 F. Butter a 10 x 15-inch bak- •Chill the cake before serving it and refrigerate any
ing pan with a 1-inch lip (jelly-roll pan) and line it with leftovers.
parchment paper. Butter the parchment or spray it with
cooking spray. Set the pan aside. —Recipe courtesy thespruceeats.com

•Beat the eggs for 5 minutes, until they turn thick
and foamy.

•Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to the eggs
and continue beating for 2 minutes.

•Fold the flour, a few tablespoons at a time, into the
whipped egg mixture.

•Gently spread the batter into the prepared pan.
There will be peaks of batter; gently smooth over them,
but do not press the batter down.

•Bake the cake for 10 minutes, until the cake is just
set.

•Invert the baked cake onto a clean, dry kitchen tow-
el and peel off the parchment paper. Wait 3 minutes
and then gently roll the cake, still in the towel, starting
at the 10-inch end. Allow it to cool completely.

•To make the white chocolate buttercream, melt the
chocolate in a double-boiler and allow the chocolate to
cool.

•Add the softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt

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Stollen softened butter and 200ml/7fl oz of the milk and stir.
•Add the remaining milk and bring the mixture togeth-
This delicious yeasted cake filled with dried fruit and
a swirl of marzipan is a German classic. It takes time to er to form a soft dough. Transfer to a generously floured
make but is well worth the effort. work surface and knead for 6-7 minutes, or until smooth
and pliable.
Ingredients
•Mix the nutmeg, cloves, vanilla and almond extract, al-
500g strong white flour, plus extra for flouring monds, dried fruit and mixed peel together in a large bowl.
100g caster sugar Put the dough on top and knead from the outside into the
10g fast action yeast centre incorporating the dried fruit and spices as you go.
10g salt
150g unsalted butter, softened When everything has been fully incorporated, cover
250ml full-fat milk the bowl with cling film and leave to rise for 1-2
Pinch ground nutmeg hours in a warm place, or until doubled in size.
Pinch ground cloves
½ tsp vanilla extract •Flatten the dough and roll out on a lightly
2 drops almond extract floured work surface to a rectangle about
55g blanched almonds, finely chopped
200g raisins 45x35cm (or so the short side of the dough
100g currants matches the longest side of your baking
125g candied peel tray). Brush with the melted butter.
25g butter, melted
225g marzipan •Roll out the marzipan to about
To serve 35x15cm (the long side should approxi-
25g butter, melted mately match the width of the dough).
2 tbsp icing sugar Place on top of the dough in the middle.
Roll the dough up to enclose the marzipan
Instructions and transfer to a baking tray lined with baking
•Put the flour and sugar in a large bowl. Add the yeast parchment. Cover and leave to rise for about an hour, or
on one side of the bowl and the salt on the other. Add the until risen and doubled in size.
•Preheat the oven to 190 C.
•When the dough has risen, bake for an hour. Remove
from the oven, brush with melted butter, and dust with ic-
ing sugar. Cool before serving.
—Recipe courtesy BBC Food

DECEMBER 2021 67

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Winter
Flavors

Ice cream in December? Check out these new winter favorites from Dolato.

It’s winter in Egypt, and you know what that means. The best
street food out there becomes even better, and nothing is bet-
ter than a fresh sweet potato, heated up straight off the cart,
wrapped up in newspaper to warm you up through the cold. The
great thing about sweet potatoes is that you can make them any which
way you please and it’d still be the perfect winter treat, and @Dolato
just took that notion to the next level.

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The gelato giants have come
out with their ingenious sweet
potato invention, which comes
topped with salted caramel
sauce: smooth and chill, sweet
and salty, it’s a gelato that sums
up all our Decembers perfectly.
And it doesn’t stop there. They’ve
got some other flavors that are
every bit as seasonal, from the
chocolate hazelnut swirls of their
gianduja gelato to the satisfy-
ing snap of the larenna wafer. If
you’ve got a taste for the flavors
of winter, visit Dolato and dis-
cover all they’ve got to offer, in-
cluding peanato, loticia and the
larenna nero.

DECEMBER 2021 69

Spotlight

www.BusinessTodayegypT.com July 2019 17

FASHION TODAY

Magical Moments

Asory’s new collection is a new take on a classic fairytale

Plus: The Painted Dreams of Marina Azer

et Fashion | Collection

Redefining
Alice in

Wonderland

ASORY unveils its most diverse collection yet, “The Dream
of Fantasia.”

ASORY, a fashion empire and
one of the leading emergent
fashion houses in Egypt by
designer and entrepreneur
Rana Yousry, unveils its most diverse
collection yet. “The Dream of Fanta-
sia” ‘21 collection is an expressive gate-
way where the fantasy tale is only told
through the lens and the creation of
the designer.

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DECEMBER 2021 73

et Fashion | Collection

The collection captures the essence of your most pro- an on a self-exploration journey exploring through life’s
found, deepest dreams, your challenges, your madness and different hats. We are all the mad hatter, the red queen,
your fear. “The Dream of Fantasia” dissects your emotions, white queen and Alice.
thoughts and inspirations within every detail choice. 
“The Dream of Fantasia” creates different lines of silhouettes
Inspired by and redefining Alice in Wonderland, Yousry that define the softness and boldness, the love and madness,
defines strong women’s self and life journeys through their using a twist of organza gazar, satin razmir and shantung high-
challenges and success, where Alice represents every wom- lighting the designs with hand embroidery and details.

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DECEMBER 2021 75

et Fashion | Collection

 
The shoot is in collaboration with:
Art director/ Photographer:@waleed_elgazzar
Set Design: @waleed_elgazzar& @shadensherif_ 
Props: @waleed_elgazzar& @shadensherif_ 
Fashion Stylist:@mazen.zakiiii 
Assistant Stylist:@salma_elhaggar 
Makeup Artist: @makeup_by_doaamahmoud 
Hair Stylist: @ahmedstar8085 
Model: @linakhattab._ 
Photographer’s Assistant: @yourblueberry 
Studio: @irisphotostudios

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DECEMBER 2021 77

et Fashion | Collection

The Painted

MaDrreianma sAof zer

Inspired by nature, Marina Azer creates works of art using simple lines.

Some people choose to accept their current status fearing
change, others turn their challenges into opportunities. But
one thing is for sure, miracles always happen to those who
choose to take a leap of faith and not allow themselves to
be defeated by challenges or obstacles. Marina Azer took that leap of
fair when after seven years of working in corporate companies she
decided to follow her passion: painting.
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As a corporate employee, Azer’s career wasn’t what she
hoped for, and her days were filled with obstacles between
the long commute to work, the daily stress, and lack of ap-
preciation and recognition. So, in 2016 she started to do
something she liked on the side: handmade greeting cards
with watercolor paintings. As a graduate of Fine Arts, Azer

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gets her inspiration from everything around her, especially 81
nature. She sold these cards in several well-known shops but
she found it hard to balance her job and what she actually
loves to do, especially that she was pregnant at that time.

After her two-year maternity leave and going back to her
job, she became certain that this is not where she should be.
She quit and decided to focus once again on her passion for
painting. “I wanted to do it differently this time, to give it all
my energy, to interact with people in the street and see their

DECEMBER 2021

et Fashion | Collection

reaction to my work. I wanted the whole idea to look at-
tractive and creative, not just the cards I sold, but even the
outfit I wore with my painting printed on it,” Azer recalls.

In the process of selling her cards, she wanted to do
something creative, a representation of her talent. She
roamed the streets of Heliopolis, Zamalek, and Shubra
with a cute box with the cards she sold, donning outfits as
artistic as her cards and happy soul.
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“People who passed by and bought my cards always
commented on the skirts I designed to wear specifi-
cally for that cause. A lot of people advised me to
start my own fashion line. I never thought about it
before, but the feedback I received gave me a push
forward,” Azer says.

From that point, the young artist decided to start
her simple fashion brand from the comfort of her
home. She adds a touch of life to white simple skirts
with beautiful eye-catching painted details. Azer sells
her collection online and is currently working on a
new line coming out soon.

Check out her awe-inspiring work at https://www.
facebook.com/marinaazergallery/

DECEMBER 2021 83



TRAVEL TODAY

A Regal Journey

Iconic Ramses exhibition goes on show in the US

Plus: Hospitality News from Across the Nation

et Travel | Snapshot Culinary and Auction Fundraising Event at JW
Marriott Cairo
The Journey of Travel this Holiday Sea-
son with La Fête by Le Meridien at Le
Meridien Cairo Airport

Winter season is the perfect time for loved ones to Marriott International hotels in Egypt hosted the first Road
gather, entertain, and be entertained which is why to Awareness Culinary Evening and Auction charity event,
Le Méridien Cairo Airport hosted a chic get together on Thursday, 2nd of December, 2021 at JW Marriott Cairo’s
celebration filled with a festive spirit and matchless Tutankhamun ballroom fundraising to Tahya Misr & Magdy
moments to embrace the glamour of the winter sea- Yacoub Heart Foundations.
son in style with the debut of La Fete by Le Meridien!
The Road to Awareness associate fundraising began in 2008
Media, bloggers and influencers were invited to in- to help raise funds to provide thousands of children across Af-
dulge in festive and glitzy moments with sparkling rica and the Middle East with a better way to experience the
winter libations, European holiday cookies, La Fete world and providing them with a better future.
Christmas dinner and more to delight the senses.
Guests gathered at JW Marriott Cairo’s Tutankhamun ball-
Guests enjoyed savory moments sipping on hot room to sample world-class cuisines showcased by 12 Marriott
apple cider and La fete signature cocktails sweetened hotels in Egypt from their signature venues. During the eve-
by La Fete cookies before a grand Christmas tree and ning, JW Marriott Cairo hosted a live auction and raffle with
la fete vignettes lighting in the outdoor patio area multiple high valued items such as packaged getaways, regional
and a surprise visit from Santa Claus. and international stays, luxury goods, and unique experiences,
all funds raised went on to support Tahya Misr Fund’s mission
La Fete Chic soiree was brimming with seasonal to enrich the Egyptian countryside, and Magdi Yacoub Foun-
beats and moments that sparkle from La Fete cookie dation’s calling to treat heart diseases for Egyptian children.
decorating kit giveaways to gift wrapping and hand
writing postcards. This event was attended by the top corporate CEOs, business
leaders, hotel owners, celebrities, and the city’s elite society.

86 DECEMBER 2021

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Culinary and Auction fundraising event at jw marriott cairo!

Steigenberger hotels & resorts – Egypt is proud to unveil a fully equipped and with stunning views.
new addition to their expanding portfolio, the opulent Stei- The resort features a premium range of leisure facilities in-
genberger Resort Alaya, with an iconic location at the heart of
Madinat Coraya & only 5 KM away from Marsa Alam Interna- cluding five heated swimming pools, private coral reef beach
tional Airport. and dedicated jetty, courts, gym, diving centre & beauty salon,
beside the biggest world-class spa in the whole destination
The resort exclusively introduces the concept of a luxury, (Mivida). A bespoke culinary experience awaits through five
adults-only property to the destination with outstanding 290 exceptional restaurants and two exquisite bars serving the best
guestrooms including 4 Royal Suites with private pools, all delicacies & beverages from around the globe.

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa Continues to Lead as the Best Resort Spa in Egypt

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa announced being recently named as “Egypt’s Best Resort Spa” for 2021 by the World Spa
Awards and “Best Luxury Wellness Spa in Egypt 2021” from the International Spa & Beauty Awards.

These annual awards are granted to the most voted for facilities that meet the specific criteria set by the internation-
ally renowned Websites, the winners are announced based on an open voting process.

The spa at Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa features 12 rooms
where both couples and individual guests can indulge in a
variety of treatments and enjoy a unique relaxation experi-
ence. The infinity pool of the spa adds a touch of serenity,
coupled with a multitude of thermal areas which include:
Steam baths, Herbal baths, a laconium dry heat area, reflexol-
ogy basins, indoor waterbed relaxation rooms, and outdoor
thermal gardens.

“We are extremely proud to as we continue to receive such
prestigious international certifications on annual basis. This
is a testament to our success at Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa in
consistently providing exceptional levels of service and ame-
nities to our guests”, said Florian Gruhl, General Manager.
“With the current focus on Luxor as a global destination for
cultural tourism, we are dedicated to making Hilton Luxor
Resort & Spa the perfect relaxing destination in the city.”

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa has a track record of collecting
certifications and stellar ratings from several renowned travel and tourism organizations, including the 2021 Traveler
Choice Certificate of Excellence from Tripadvisor, a Hotels.com superb 9.4 rating, and the Traveler Review Award from
Booking.com with a 9.2 rating.

DECEMBER 2021 87

Marriott Bonvoy Launches its First Charity Golf Tournament

Marriott International Hotels in Egypt have come togeth- Airport, Sheraton Montaza. Along with outstanding spon-
er once again to support the community as part of the annu- sor’s profiles such as Nai, Heineken, Fine, Nestle, Beard, Ne-
al CSR plan of the junior business council, headed by Eben spresso, Cold stone, Trade line and El Kobassy, Katameya
Nel, the general manager of The Westin Cairo by launching Dunes Golf club that helped create this special event.
Marriott Bonvoy’s first Charity Golf Tournament, that was
hosted by The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & Spa Katameya Eben then announced the top three winners and distrib-
Dunes for the benefit of Dar Al Sondos Orphanage. uted the special prizes that included, luxury suite stays and
spa use at Milux Luxury Suite Experience, JW Marriott , Ritz
This golf tournament is the first Golf event to take place Carlton , St Regis Cairo ,St Regis Al Massa, Marriot Mena
in Egypt under Marriott Bonvoy brand, with a plan to orga- House, Sheraton Cairo, The Westin Cairo, Cairo Marriott,
nize it annually in different Golf properties in Egypt. The Le Meridien Cairo Airport, Renaissance Mirage, Sheraton El
goal of this event was to collect donations to support the or- Gouna & Marriott Hurgada.
phans with special needs of Dar El Sonsdos, and help create
a better environment for the less fortunate children while The Top three winners are:
enjoying an amazing greenery atmosphere and playing for In first place: Octavio Tripp, Benjamin Cabrera, Jorge Lo-
a good cause.
zano, Khuon Phon Rattanak
This charitable Golf Tournament was planned under In second place: Saurav Bhuvan, Sunay Mukerjee, Lamees
the junior business council of Marriott International Ho-
tels in Egypt, with more than 17 Marriott Hotels across the Daya, Ruma Mehta
country, with all the general managers on board, led by the In third place: Hesham Tarraf, Hamed Lotfi, Mohamed
General Manager of The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & Spa
Katameya Dunes. The initiative objective was to collect EGP Abou el Fadl, Zaki Khaled
100,000, however due to more guests participating in this The event ended by handing all the collected donations
charitable event and more sponsors who wanted to share
this great initiative, the campaign exceeded this amount and including: registrations fees, donations, sponsors and raffle
donated a total of 170,000 LE to Dar Al Sondos. draw to Dar Al Sondos Orphanage in a lovely atmosphere
among all organizers, players, media and sponsors.
This one of a kind Golf Tournament took place between
the amazing golf scenery of The Westin Cairo Golf Resort &
Spa Katameya Dunes and started by Eben Nel, welcoming
guests, players, sponsors, media and all Bonvoy members,
then he also thanked all participating hotels for joining
and planning this great event, among which was, Marriott
Cairo, Marriott Mena House, Marriott Hurghada, Nile Ritz,
Renaissance Cairo, Renaissance Sharm, ST. Regis Cairo, St.
Regis Al Masa, Sheraton Cairo, Sheraton Soma Bay, The
Westin Cairo, JW Marriott, Le Meriden Dahab, Le Meriden

Christmas Cooking Class at Ramses Hilton

We kicked off our holiday celebrations
with a Christmas cooking class, which
took place at “OPIA” Lounge & Bar over-
looking the Nile from the 36 floor.

Naira El Ellamei, the professional certi-
fied chef, was happy to share her passion
with a selected group of ladies who were
shown during the session how to prepare
and cook a complete Christmas set menu
starting with quinoa salad, braised beef
with baked mashed potatoes as main
course ended by chocolate biscuits & straw-
berry cheese cake.

The event was ended by distributing
Christmas gifts to all participants to take
home as a memory of this eventful day.

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A Show of Greatness

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“Ramses the Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs” exhibition opens in
Houston.

By Angy Essam
Taking visitors back 3,200 years, across the sands
of the Sahara Desert and into the heart of Ancient The exhibition houses rare collections of the great king
Egypt ruled by the most celebrated builder in the Ramses II and offers viewers a window into the life and ac-
country’s storied history, Ramses the Great and complishments of Ramses II, more commonly known as
Ramses the Great. Visitors will come face-to-face with 181

the Gold of the Pharaohs exhibition was inaugurated at priceless artifacts including Egyptian treasures and unique

Houston Museum of Natural Science on November 20 and relics, many representing the exceptional pharaoh himself.

will run for six months. Canvassing an area of 3,000 square meters the exhibition

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displays a group of statues, ornaments, cosmetics, paint-
ings, stones decorated with inscriptions, statues of some
deities in a form of birds and animals, and some colored
wooden coffins.

The exhibition “Ramses & The Gold of The Pharaohs”
welcomed visitors from all over the American city of Hous-
ton to enjoy the splendor of the great Egyptian antiquities
with .

During the first days of its opening, the exhibition set
against the enchanting melodies of harp strings in the back-
ground, witnessed a huge turnout of visitors from different
age groups. Some 8,000 tickets were booked and sold in the
first hours of the exhibition’s opening day, and it is expected
that the number of visitors will amount to 700,000 by the
end of the exhibition.

Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities
Mostafa Waziri explained that an Egyptian delegation rep-
resenting the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities had wel-
comed the visitors, who expressed their fascination with the
greatness of the Egyptian civilization.

Assistant Minister for Tourism Promotion Lamia Kamel
said that the Egyptian pavilion at the exhibition also wit-
nessed a great turnout from the museum visitors, who used
the QR code shown on the main panel in the pavilion to

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access the promotional site for Egypt on various social me-
dia platforms, in order to get acquainted with the brilliance
of the Egyptian tourist destinations and Egypt’s countless
tourism products.

Visitors to the Houston Museum of Natural Sciences ex-
pressed their enthusiasm to visit Egypt, especially in winter,
added Kamel, who went on to review the efforts exerted by

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the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, in cooperation
with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, to create a direct flight
route between Sharm El-Sheikh and Luxor to link beach
tourism with cultural tourism, within the framework of the
ministries’ efforts to create an integrated tourism product.

Last month the Egyptian pavilion at the Houston Muse-
um of Natural Sciences broadcast Egypt’s grand celebration
“The Sphinx Avenue,” which took place on November 25.

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The Ministry of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communi- In cooperation with Visa, Arab African
ties signs a Memorandum of Understanding with Alam- International Bank celebrates the pres-
eda Healthcare Group to operate and manage the first ence of the “TotalEnergies AFCON
and largest hospital in the New Administrative Capital 2022” Trophy at the bank’s headquarters

In line with Egypt vision 2030, which reflects the state’s long- Within the long cooperation between Arab African
term strategic plan to create sustainable societies in partner- International Bank and Visa, the bank received the
ship with leading economic, technical and scientific entities African Cup of Nations inside its headquarters on
and development partners. Today, the Ministry of Housing, Thursday, December 9, 2021, on the occasion of the
Utilities and Urban Communities signed a Memorandum of “TotalEnergies AFCON 2022”.
Understanding with a global alliance that includes Alameda
Healthcare Group, the China State Construction Engineering The event witnessed a large gathering of the bank’s
Corporation “C.S.C.E.C” and Al-Hazeq Construction Company, employees from various departments, and they had
to establish, manage and operate the first and largest hospital the chance to take memorable photos with the trophy.
in the New Administrative Capital. The presence of the “TotalEnergies AFCON 2022” tro-
phy in the Bank for the second time is an indescribable
According to this public–private partnership, Alameda will experience for all the Bank’s employees and confirms
operate a new hospital for 49 renewable years, while the facility the continuous partnership between VISA and AAIB.
will be owned by the ministry, represented by NUCA and con-
structed by the China State Construction Engineering Corpora- Commenting on this event, Mr. Sherif Elwy, Manag-
tion “C.S.C.E.C” and Al-Hazeq Construction Company. ing Director and Vice Chairman of the Board of Direc-
tors of AAIB said: “ It is a great pleasure to receive the
The alliance responsible for the establishment, construction “TotalEnergies AFCON 2022” Trophy at AAIB which
and management of the hospital will collaborate with global reflects the long-term partnership between AAIB and
consultants in the field of engineering and architectural consul- Visa on all levels of successes and assures how AAIB is
tancy specialized in the medical field, such as the global office always supporting such events, wishing all participat-
“HKS”. In addition to, a global partner to contribute in setting ing teams the best of luck”.
international medical standards and management.
AAIB is always keen to keep the partnership with
Moreover, the ministry will provide a land plot of 7 feddan Visa, one of the most important partners in the bank
located near the CBD New Capital Towers in the New Adminis- success. Over the past years, AAIB with Visa, launched
trative Capital’s Business District. Alameda will begin running many products that serve the bank’s customers.  Men-
the facility upon the completion of the hospital’s construc- tioning that the latest successful campaign with Visa
tion phase after 36 months from the agreement signing date. was “Visa Signature” credit card that achieved a huge
Alameda will invest 1 billion Egyptian pounds for equipping success in the market and yet to be relaunched soon
the hospital with the cutting edge and most advanced medical with AAIB.
technology and equipment.
Dina Zikry, Head of Consumer Banking and Finan-
In July 2021, the Ministry of Housing Utilities and Urban cial Inclusion at AAIB, said: “The cooperation with
Communities welcomed Alameda’s proposal to establish a Visa allows us to provide the latest innovative banking
top-notch facility in partnership with NUCA. Today, this products and digital services, which affects positively
MOU reflects the ministry’s robust efforts to provide the new the digital transformation AAIB is working on right
administrative capital with all integrated services according to now. We are looking forward to many more coopera-
international standards. tion with VISA supporting the future of E-Payment
services and banks’ digitization.”  
The facility will add to Alameda’s network 300 beds, which
will include 100 ICU beds and 200 single rooms, 10 operating Malak al-Baba, Country Manager of Visa Egypt,
theaters, robotics surgery, 2 Cath labs, 2 linear accelerator ma- expressed her pride in the partnership between Visa
chines, comprehensive oncology program. Moreover, the group and the Arab African International Bank, saying, “This
will direct robust investments towards establishing world-class event comes within the framework of Visa’s keenness
“Centers of Excellences” to provide integrated medical services to strengthen relations with its partners and enable
in different specialties including; Cardiac Sciences, Neurosci- them to be part of Visa’s initiatives to sponsor sporting
ences, Renal Sciences, GIT & Liver Diseases, Respiratory Dis- events and provide a seamless experience for users in
eases, Orthopaedics & Spine and Organ Transplantation. such big gatherings.”

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In its third edition, Egypt Economic Summit discusses the nation’s recent socioeconomic evolution,
with Minister of Planning Hala El Said highlighting the government’s reform and incentives program

Under the auspices of H.E Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa key items internationally. It prompted significant increases in
Madbouly, the third edition of Egypt Economic Summit shipping and energy prices, with oil and energy prices increas-
this year was held to discuss the socioeconomic evolution in ing by 50% to 80% in the previous 6 months.
the last few years. During her keynote speech in the Summit,
H.E Mrs. Hala El Said, Minister of Planning and Economic El Said stressed that Egypt is the only country globally that
Development, stated that total investments in infrastructure never halted its national projects with sizable investments, es-
projects amount to 130 billion Egyptian pounds in the last pecially “Decent Life” Initiative that was launched initially in
seven years, adding that the sovereign fund intends to estab- January 2019 and targets 375 villages, decreasing the poverty
lish sustainable schools in collaboration with private sector, rates in some villages by 11%
as well as increase the exchange market capital by 12% to 730
billion Egyptian pounds. In terms of social involvement, the minster affirmed the ef-
fective role of Egyptian women in the development efforts, as
El Said highlighted that the government has approved and women have received significant support from political leader-
implemented several reform and incentives programs to pave ship to empower them towards using all of their capabilities
the way for thriving business conditions that would contrib- across the strategic development efforts in the country.
ute to overall development goals and generate job opportuni-
ties for Egyptians across all governorates. This year, the summit is sponsored by Telecom Egypt
WE, Tatweer Misr, Amer Group, Hyde Park Developments,
El Said has also indicated her complete confidence in miti- Danone Egypt, Eastern Company S.A.E, Misr Italia Properties,
gating the negative effects of Covid-19 by efficient collabora- and Marriott Residence Heliopolis.
tion with the private sector in all domains. “With the outbreak
of Covid-19 and its social and economic aftereffects, the
Egyptian government has played a key role in implementing
promising reform programs that began 7 years ago in order
to achieve the comprehensive and sustainable development
goals outlined in Egypt’s 2030 vision, which was announced
in February 2016”.

El Said pointed out that the predicted economic recovery is
being accompanied by rising demand, which has resulted in
supply chain difficulties across the world, severely impacting
the labour market and leading to price increases in critical and

City Centre Almaza celebrates two years since its opening by hosting an
event featuring a performance by an Arab superstar

Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, managed to achieve so far. With 239 stores, 90 of which are fash-
retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, ion offerings – we are committed to bringing exclusive shopping
celebrates two years since the opening of its second flagship mall experiences to our customers, positioning City Centre Almaza as
City Centre Almaza, by hosting a mega event featuring a high- the go-to fashion destination in the country. We look forward to
end fashion show and a performance by a regional superstar. achieving bigger and better results for our customers, employees
The event is set to take place on December 3. and the surrounding community for many years to come.”

City Centre Almaza is also hosting a number of engaging ac- The fashion show and performance is an invitation only
tivities on-ground showcasing the “power of two” in celebration event. For more information, please visit www.citycentrealmaza.
of the anniversary, providing its customers with many surprises com.
and unforgettable experiences. The activities are open to the
public until December 5, where two lucky visitors will each get
the chance to win two carat diamonds.

Commenting on the anniversary, Khaled Shaker, West Region
Head of Marketing & Customer Experience, Shopping Malls at
Majid Al Futtaim – Properties, stated: “We are extremely thrilled
to be celebrating two years since we opened the doors to City
Centre Almaza by hosting an event of this magnitude. In the last
couple of years, we managed to welcome over 20 million visitors,
continuing to motivate us to find innovative ways to create great
moments for our customers.”

Rasha Azab, Acting Managing Director of West Region Shop-
ping Malls at Majid Al Futtaim – Properties added: “Looking
back at the last two years, we’re extremely proud of what we have

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et Parting Shot

A New Era for Egypt’s Arts and Culture

The new Opera House Concert Hall has its first concert in Egypt in over 70 years. At-
been inaugurated at the Arts and Culture tending the lavish event were Egypt’s Prime
City in the New Administrative Capital. The Minister Mostafa Madbouly along with a
opening ceremony featured the iconic Vi- host of ministers, ambassadors, dignitaries
enna Philharmonic Orchestra, performing and cultural figures.

98 DECEMBER 2021