TELLING TALES
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n last week’s letter, I mentioned how important it is for us to hear from you, our readers. We love it when you write in and tell us your thoughts on each week’s magazine. Now, we want to go beyond that, and invite you to tell us much, much more. Today, you become storytellers. In this weekly feature, we’ll publish your stories, advice and ideas on a specific topic – it might be serious, it might be fun, it might be food. Hopefully, it’s something we’ll all learn from and enjoy.
LET’S START RIGHT NOW
Go to our Facebook page @fridaymagazine or our Twitter page @friday_magazine and leave your piece, short or long, in the comments. Our first question: What brought you to live in the UAE? I’m sure you know why we’ve started with that question – of course, we’re only a week out from the country’s 45th National Day. If you’re wondering what fun is lined up for that day, turn to our newly expanded, ultra-informative Leisure Charts. We’ve got a full page on National Day events around the country, from fireworks displays to cultural villages to where to eat those little dumplings of datedoused deliciousness, aka logaymat. (More events are being announced all the time, so make sure to check fridaymagazine.ae, where up-to-the-minute listings will be added throughout next week). Also in the Leisure Charts? All the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix parties, from the super-chic club nights (hello, Drake!) to free concerts that all the family can enjoy.
The entire country gets swept up in Formula 1 fun, and our fashion department is no different. Our team was lucky enough to do a fashion shoot page 54, on the track at Yas Marina Circuit, where, for only the third time in the ADGP’s eight-year history, the drivers’ championship will be decided. Will Nico Rosberg nab his first title? I’m not even a motorsports fan, but it’s exciting to see our home be the focus of such a dramatic finish.
If you’re staying in this weekend, we understand. All the excitement of living in the UAE can be pretty tiring, too. Take a look at our feature on fatigue on page 30, and learn some perhaps surprising techniques to combat this widespread issue. My favourite tip? Spending time with friends. Yes, often it feels like the last thing you want to do (hey, my TV is my friend, right?). But the impact it can have on your well-being is proven. Even a quick chat is like a shot in the arm sometimes.
And don’t forget, storytellers – we’re also here to listen.