Welcome to the LIVING articles on DoinDubai

Here you will find practical and informative articles connected to Living in Dubai. Articles range from how to sell a car to where to get your jewellery dipped. Find alternative ideas for where to take your visitors, other than a Mall. Read about my experiences of school life in Dubai as regards teenagers. Let me know what you find the most useful in this category; is there anything you would like me to research and include on the website?

December 6, 2023 by monica Leave a Comment

CHINA TOWN IN DUBAI MALL – Not just more street food

What is China Town in Dubai Mall all about

UPDATED DECEMBER 2023 – NEW DIM SUM and PERFECT PUDDING PLACE

We visited China Town in Dubai Mall again this week and were amazed at how much it’s grown even by Dubai standards! Many more restaurants, shops and a real buzz.

A perfect place to take your visitors. We LOVED a new dim sum place called Yingji Dim Sum. Do call them before hand to ask for directions though, once in China Town, it’s kind of down some escalators and left! Not so obvious but worth the trek. Not the best for pure vegetarians though!

Go and have dessert and buy some little things to take home back in the China Town main mall section from LUKIN SPRING. They let you try little morsels too! Super authentic and very tasty, not much in the way of savoury though, mainly sweet.

It’s a large area decorated to look a bit like a Hong Kong street with a variety of authentic food kiosks and eateries. Is it worth a visit? Read on to find out.

LIKE A STREET IN HONG KONG BUT IN DUBAI MALL

There are nice places to sit and eat. Much nicer vibe than the food courts. Note that not all the food places are open as yet.

Some of are very informal order at the counter kiosks, others a a bit more formal.

So it’s an upmarket feeling, Asian style food court for the main section. But it’s not only about food.

Where exactly is China Town in Dubai Mall

China Town in Dubai is located on the 1st floor of Dubai Mall, near the ice rink. It’s easily accessible once you’re in the mall.

What are the best places to eat there

That depends on whether you’d like something quick and good value or want to splurge a bit. The popular kiosks are definitely Hawker Chan and Lanzhou Beef Noodle when we visited. I think Lanzhou also has a branch in International City. See our new find above!

Note I went with a Chinese friend who lives in Dubai so she has some inside knowledge on what’s good!

The Hawker Chan stall specializes in chicken and rice Singapore style. Often there are queues to order from this famous name kiosk.

HAWKER CHAN KIOSK IS FAMOUS FOR CHICKEN RICE

The Lanzhou beef noodle kiosk was also really busy. It serves steaming bowls of tender beef in spicy, soupy noodles.

Note there is no vegetarian or even chicken broth equivalent so if you don’t eat beef then this one is not for you.

Haidialo is a more formal restaurant serving Chinese Hot Pot. It has it’s own area and is a proper stand alone restaurant.

We like Chinese hot pots but my friend didn’t recommend we try this one just yet! Do check out their cool marketing videos though!

It’s certain more restaurants and kiosks will be opening as the space matures apparently up to 30! More formal restaurants will open up as well.

Is it all about food

It’s mainly but not exclusively about food in China Town Dubai at the moment. We loved the well known in China brand Xiaomi.

It’s an electronics retailer that I thought was quite reasonably priced. We LOVED the neat white air fryers that are just AED 349!

If you’d like to see our cool air fryer recipes page then click here for AIR FRYER RECIPES

Or follow our AIR FRYER SIMPLE instagram.

I also would have bought their foldable reading light, but that was sold out. They also seem to specialize in android operated smart phones that cost a fraction of Apple or Samsung models.

The store was founded in 2010 by a young Chinese business man from Beijing.

There is also a Yin Yang spa branch here too. Very popular massage spa that we know from Al Wasl road in Jumeirah. Somewhere for those who don’t like to shop!

If you like Chinese food then you could also try here

If you like Chinese food you may also want to consider eating at Din Tai Fung on the lower ground floor near the fountains.

Be sure to pop in to Kadayifzade Turkish pistachio pastry shop next door for a sample for high end, authentic dessert.

Is China Town in Dubai Mall worth the visit

if you’re in Dubai Mall then yes definitely pop up there. Take a look at the giant panda exhibit and have a good look round Xiaomi store.

If you eat beef then you’ll love Lanzhou Beef kiosk, otherwise maybe have dumplings at Din Tai Fung?

The area is bound to evolve and get busier as time goes on.

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Chat Gpt told me there are 30 restaurants and cafes in China Town Dubai Mall. Well sure there will be eventually but not at the moment! It also said it was a vibrant Chinese cultural showcase, again, not as yet!

If you’d like to try your hand at making some Chinese food at home, then try this easy, tasty Chinese fish fillets recipe.

monicas-weekend-monica-kapila-doindubai-chinese-style-fish-fillets-

October 26, 2023 by monica 2 Comments

GYROTONIC IN DUBAI – Spiral your way to suppleness and space

Understand how practicing GYROTONIC® in Dubai could result in a straighter back, a more supple body and bigger spaces between your joints.

All that allows for a greater range of motion, better posture and generally a fitter feeling all round. But is Gyrotonic exercise in Dubai for you?

READ ON for my honest experience and see what you think. I’m focusing on everything LONGEVITY related right now.

What is Gyrotonic exercise about

Gyrotonic exercise combines elements from yoga, tai chi and gymnastics all using very specialized, unique equipment.

The technique and equipment were both pioneered by a Romanian ballet dancer- Juliu Hovarth as a form of rehab for his own multiple injuries from dancing and gymnastics.

What kind of equipment is used to do Gyrotonic exercise

The equipment deployed in a GYROTONIC class is very unique and specialized. But it’s also highly customizable to accommodate different levels of strength and ability.

It’s aim is to provide support, resistance and feedback for every move.

I loved the fact that the equipment can be at raised up or lowered down depending on the length of your legs. Even minor adjustments can be made to accommodate different body shapes.

The jumping stretching board shown above has a variety of attachments. For example, it has a propeller with rotating discs.

The video below shows how you place your feet on the discs and again these can be placed closer together or wider apart depending on your range of motion.

Then as you progress you can move the discs further apart. So everyone can start gyrotonic regardless of their base fitness, strength or mobility.

In addition to the propeller there are also four sets of runners, two swivel discs and a horizontal, gliding platform that can be used at different inclines.

Each specific attachment allows for endless combinations of exercises that provide very full, varied and comprehensive movements. So no session is ever the same!

All the equipment works on different aspects of that space that’s being created between your joints, but I really liked the rotating discs that start your spiralling movements.

You use these for your hands, shoulders, feet and hips. I’ve never experienced anything quite like this before despite attending reformer and pilates classes for years.

Gyrotonic in Dubai DoinDubai Monica Kapila Gyrotonic Propeller

The uniqueness lies in you being in control of your range of how far you can twist and spiral.

There are also very few bits of equipment that can properly access and exercise your MID BACK for example. I love the versatility of the equipment.

That’s another specialism with GYROTONIC exercise.

Also unlike on a reformer bed, the leg extension unit has independent weights attached to EACH leg, so you’ll easily see which of your legs is stronger than the other!

Do you have to be fit and strong to do Gyrotonic exercise

No you don’t have to be fit, strong, supple or young to do Gyrotonic exercise. The equipment can be organized for all levels of fitness.

But you must go to a properly qualified and capable teacher.

My teacher even taught someone who was wheelchair bound!

You must also learn with the correct equipment. I learnt at the SPIRAL ENERGY STUDIO based in JBR in Dubai.

WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW AND CLICK CC TO GET THE SUBTITLES ON THE SCREEN.

How do you feel after a GYROTONIC CLASS

I’ve done a couple of one hour long GYROTONIC classes so far in Dubai and first of all, please note even quite fit people feel as though they have worked very hard and you do build up a sweat!

It’s strenuous even though the movements don’t look like they’re hefty, “big” or loud!

Without doubt I felt I had more space between my joints after each class and I was definitely walking with a straight back without any effort!

Consequently I feel more balanced when I’m standing on both feet. The GYROTONIC exercise has definitely informed and helped my other exercises too.

The space between the joints allows for a greater range of motion and helps with flexibility.

I think I’d like to do a series of classes as getting the rotation of the upper and mid back is something you have to practice but the benefits are so obvious so quickly.

Where can I try gyrotonic exercise in Dubai

There are very few places so far in Dubai that even offer GYROTONIC exercise but I recommend the Spiral En ergy studio in JBR I did my classes at.

It’s a light, bright space and perfect for trying all the equipment in the same area. You can do one to one or semi private classes.

Location of the Spiral Energy Studio – JBR Dubai

How much is a GYROTONIC class and how many do I have to do

I think doing a package of 3 classes either one to one or as a semi private with one other person would be a great way of getting all the benefits of the exercise.

Then you could decide how it’s working for you.

Contact either Elena or Alona of the:

Spiral Energy Studio

+971 54 326 6553

And check out both their instagrams accounts for more details:

@elena_pilate s_uae

@alona.body.intelligen ce

EXCLUSIVE 10% DISCOUNT with code DOINDUBAI 10

Spiral Energy Studio is happy to offer anyone booking and quoting code doindubai10 a 10% discount off an introductory package of three classes

These would be taught on a one to one basis.

CLICK the picture to watch this INSTAGRAM REEL – moving that MID BACK

note
This post was written in conjunction with Elena and Alona of Spiral Energy Studio studio but the views are all my own.

Staying Healthy – Need inspiration for dinner tonight?

Try a healthy tasty RECIPE from our recipe gallery below

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Follow @doindubai instagram for more honest food and travel inspiration.

June 15, 2023 by monica Leave a Comment

EID AL-ADHA Culinary traditions uniting the world in celebration 2023

Eid al-Adha – also known as Eid al Bakr or Eid al-Kabir in Morocco, is a time of celebration and feasting for Muslims worldwide.

It commemorates the story of Ibrahim (Abraham) willingness to sacrifice his son as a test of faith. But when the time came a ram was ultimately provided as a substitute. The centerpiece of the Eid al-Adha meal is today often lamb or goat, though in Morocco, beef or camel meat may feature.

Eid al Adha and Hajj

Ibrahim (Abraham) played a pivotal role in the construction of the Kaaba, the sacred structure at the center of the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. According to Islamic tradition, Ibrahim and his son Ismail were chosen by Allah for this significant task.

The story goes that Ibrahim received a divine command to build a house of worship for Allah. Accompanied by Ismail, he embarked on this divine mission. The chosen location for the construction was a barren valley in the heart of Mecca. Together, Ibrahim and Ismail laid the foundations of the Kaaba, carefully constructing its walls and shaping its unique cubic structure.

The Kaaba was destined to become a central point of pilgrimage, drawing Muslims from all corners of the world to converge upon its sacred precincts during Hajj. The act of building the Kaaba by Ibrahim and Ismail underscores the idea of coming together as a community in the worship of Allah, irrespective of one’s background or status.

What do people eat at Eid al-Adha

Rice is a staple on Eid tables across different countries. Pilao, a rice dish often but not always cooked in meat stock, is popular in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey, and Iran.

However, the garnishes used in pilao can vary. Iranian pilao uses barberries and pine nuts, Afghan pilao may include raisins and grated carrot.

Pakistani pilao often incorporates pistachios. Bulgur wheat is favored in Turkey, while couscous is a common addition in Morocco.

Meat is prepared in various ways across the world at Eid al-Adha

Various meat-based dishes are prepared for Eid al-Adha, may of them include rice or a grain.

Biriyani, a layered rice dish with meat and spices, is enjoyed in Pakistan and India.

Haleem, a mixture of ground meat, crushed wheat, and lentils, is a staple in Hyderabad and Iran. Nihari, a slow-cooked lamb dish with bone marrow, is also savored during this time.

Meatballs, like the Nargisi kofta, are popular across the region. They’re especially popular in India and Pakistan where they are served in rich curry gravies.

Any meat prepared at this time must be cooked in accordance with halal principles. It’s, common for the entire animal to be used for consumption.

Organ meats like liver, as well as other parts such as brain, tongue, and tail, may be carefully prepared and enjoyed during this time.

While some regions have a preference for lamb or goat, others, like Pakistan, may serve chicken as a substitute and focus more on giving away lamb or goat acquired for this time of year.

Nose to tail restaurants for Eid al Adha anyone? Not just in Milan then!

Kebabs are a must at Eid al-Adha

Kebabs are a common sight on Eid tables. Turkish cuisine features succulent pit-roasted kebabs cooked over coals using the tandir technique, while kebabs in India and Pakistan are spiced generously and cooked in a tandoor.

Mechoui, a traditional steamed lamb dish from Morocco, holds a special association with Eid al-Adha and has gained popularity worldwide.

Desserts are cold and creamy at this time

Desserts vary across regions. In the Gulf, cool and creamy milky puddings and syrupy pastries with nuts are favored due to the hot weather.

Vermicelli is a versatile ingredient used in various forms, such as Kunafa with cheese and rose water in the UAE and the Levant, or Seviyan with pistachios, cardamom, and raisins in Pakistan.

Turkish-style rice pudding called Firin Sutlac, enriched with egg and baked in clay pots, is a beloved treat during Eid al-Adha.

Whether you choose to enjoy traditional dishes or add your own twist, Eid Mubarak to all those celebrating!

Tips for a healthier Eid al Adha

Of we know it’s healthier to eat your main, meat-heavy meal at lunch or early in the day to allow for proper digestion.

Try making small portions of cold coffee and orange flavored chocolate mousse in little Moroccan tea glasses. Great idea for an healthier Eid al Adha dessert. Easy Recipe for chocolate mousse here.

Or try making our easy fruit crumble with no flour and very little sugar, also in the air fryer. A great cold dessert.

Try air frying your meat ball/koftas this year, much healthier for you as well. More AIR FRYER recipes here.

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We like eating lamb kebabs at Al Beiruti in Dubai. If you’re planning an Eid getaway consider the New Bab Al Shams, now with new summer offers. If you fancy going further a field this Eid, then we recommend Nairobi Kenya for a short break.

Need some inspiration for what to cook this Eid holiday? Try our good recipe page here

March 1, 2023 by monica Leave a Comment

THE OLD LIBRARY DUBAI – step back in time and lose yourself in a book

Read about the fascinating history of the The Old Library Dubai.

Starting out with just 2 parcels of donated books housed on 3 shelves, the Old Library now has over 25,000 books, 500 shelves and over 60 volunteers!

A potted history of the Old Library Dubai

In 1853 our 7 Arab Emirates were known as The Trucial States and became a British Protectorate. Troops were stationed here to provide protection, and generally keep law and order in relation to any tribal or border unrest.

At the end of this arrangement with a few troops left, stationed in Sharjah at the British Royal Air Force base, a box of yo yos arrived supposedly to relieve the boredom of the soldiers!

They were donated by Lady Verney of Eaton Square, grandma to one of the officers and bought from Harrods!

Lady Verney later donated a collection of books to the Sharjah English Speaking School who of course received the yo yos first!

Unfortunately the books were too advanced for the children so they ended up being housed in a home library owned by Sir Julian Bullard, the then Political Agent appointed by the British in Dubai.

It was his wife Lady Margaret who got the idea of establishing a lending library from this initial collection of books.

The library moves home a few times in Dubai

The first library was housed in Deira at a commercial office not in use by the political agent. Shelves were created using sand bags and planks!

Everyone who visited the libary was offered a cup of Arabic coffee and the collection of books was added to from the UK.

in 1971 the UAE was born and free air transportation of books from the UK halted, so shipments of books continued by sea.

The library moved to first a supermarket above Karama, then Satwa.

Evenutaully it found its way to a portacabin in the compound of the Holy Trinity Church and the name changed to become The Community Centre lending library.

It settled till 1990s at its more formal home of Dubai International Arts Centre on Beach Road and from there progressed to DUCTAC at Mall of Emirates all the way up to 2018. It had been 49 years since it started!

FRIENDLY HELPFUL STAFF AT THE OLD LIBRARY

When it was no longer possible for the library to be accommodated at DUCTAC, a band of volunteers managed to sort out a new home!

This time at the Gold and Diamond Park just at Equity station.

Why bother visiting the Old Library Dubai

The people there who work as volunteers are super freindly, helpful and really love books.

They’ll likely be able to talk to you about a genre of book you’re interested in. Moreover they’re all great readers and work as volunteers in their spare time.

For me it was like going back to a local library in London! You’ll also save yourself money on books of course! Great if you’re part of a book club. They will also try and order books for if they can.

Location

Located in the Gold and Diamond park just at Equity station.

There is a great little Portuguese coffee shop called Alma right across form the library. Very convenient if you’re keen to have a snack while you’re doing some reading!

ALMA PORTUGUESE CAFE ACROSS FROM THE LIBRARY

Library Website

Opening Times and membership details

Telephone: 04 321 3939

Open from Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm

First Friday of the month 10am till 8pm

Click the link for all you need to know about membership of the Old Library Dubai

What are you reading right now ?

A SELECTION OF CURRENT READS TO INSPIRE YOU

I’m currently reading..

The Devotion of Suspect X and The Twentieth Wife !

What are you reading right now?

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Monica.