Strolling past the Arabic Souk section in the Mall of the Emirates, the rich dark colours of a central stand caught my eye. Al Nassma, the world’s first quality camel milk chocolate was on display behind the sparkle of a long glass counter. I had heard of the world’s first camel milk chocolate before my [...]

The view from the hotel’s balcony was too much to bear. The beach called out loud and clear, its calm azure waters beckoning, the glow of its fine white sand inviting languid footsteps. Luxury boats dotted the water while others anchored in the glittering marina. The resort could have easily been somewhere in the Pacific [...]

I wanted to taste McArabia. There. I’ve confessed it. I also admit that I’m not a fan of fast food. As odd as it felt to have it as an item to tick off my culinary to-do list in Dubai, I was curious and  adamant to try McDonald’s contribution to the Arab world. Would it [...]

If you speak to a resident of Aleppo or a national living abroad, you’ll soon discover that Aleppians share a common passion. They pride themselves in their cuisine and unequivocally declare theirs to be the best in the Middle East. With a strong attachment to culinary traditions, their recipes are well-guarded. The home cook learns [...]

Standing in front of this natural wonder rising from the sea, I could not understand why lost souls would come there to contemplate or commit suicide. Beirut’s natural wonder left me with nothing but boundless inspiration. The Raouché is to Beirut what the Cedar is to Lebanon, a timeless symbol of the city and its [...]

On the approach to the ancient city of Aleppo in Syria, if like you, your car overheats and stops on the road don’t fret. There is always a willing local or a fellow traveller who is keen to lend a hand. Or his car. With the nearest petrol station only a few of kilometres away, [...]