< Previous60 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | September 2024 From a highly anticipated whodunnit to a new Hollywood homage, here are this month’s top books THE BIG READS The super sequel Long Island, Colm Tóibín (Pan Macmillan) Perhaps you read the 2009 Booker Prize- longlisted Brooklyn and/or watched the 2015 fi lm adaptation, which starred Saoirse Ronan. Either way, you were likely swept up in this compelling yarn conjured by Irish literary national treasure, Colm Tóibín. If you’re late to the party, know it By Sarah Buitendach charted the story of a young girl, Eilis Lace, who leaves Ireland for a new life in the USA in the 1950s. Over a decade later and Tóibín’s follow-up to the hit kicks off 20 years on, when a strange man arrives at Eilis’ suburban door and rocks her world. This story of a family in crisis, and a return home is, sometimes frustratingly but brilliantly, very much about the unsaid. EtA_11Sep2024_EN_60-61_Books_13356179.indd 6025/08/2024 23:10books September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 61 If you enjoy this, then there is a cannon of Tóibín magnifi cence to delve into – particularly The Blackwater Lightship and Nora Webster. The much-anticipated whodunnit We Solve Murders, Richard Osman, (Penguin) Get ready for Richard Osman’s new crime mystery book, which hits shelves on 12 September. If you’re new to this TV host-turned-author’s work, then you’re in for a treat. Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series has sold 10 million copies globally, and the fi rst book is being turned into a movie starring Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan. The four novels (to date) are funny, warm- hearted and brilliantly crafted capers about four retirees who solve murders. We Solve Murders is the fi rst in a fresh series by Osman, about an unusual detective duo – a retired investigator Steve Wheeler and his daughter-in-law, Amy Wheeler, a private security offi cer. As the teaser says, “a dead body, a bag of money and a killer with their sights on Amy have her sending an SOS to the only person she trusts. A breakneck race around the world begins, but can Amy and Steve stay one step ahead of a deadly enemy?” Start it as your fl ight takes off and prepare for uninterrupted enjoyment. The recipe book to add spice to your life Agak Agak, Shu Han Lee (Hardie Grant) A fl ip through Shu Han Lee’s new culinary ode to everyday Singaporean food will have you rerouting your journey to stop off in the Southeast Asian country for a meal or seven. Lucky Etihad Airways fl ies there, so this is an easy proposition. If the trip is off the menu for now, then the charismatic London-based food developer and author’s latest release is a must-have. ‘Agak agak’ is a term rooted in the Malay word for ‘somewhat’ and, as Shu puts it, agak agak cookery “is about cooking with intent and intuition” – of adapting, adjusting and doing things to taste. In her kitchen (and the book) this manifests as a bevy of moreish recipes for dishes including Katong Curry Laksa, 8-hour Ox Cheek Rendang and Chilli Crab Spaghetti. Shu hopes readers will use her creations as a springboard to come up with dishes of their own. We love watching her easy, calming and soulful cooking clips on Instagram, and with any luck will be able to replicate some of that magic through this great new recipe book. The one for movie buff s LIFE. Hollywood (Taschen) Forget the latest blockbuster – for a dose of real cinematic magic, you want to get your hands on Taschen’s new two-volume box set. It catapults readers into old Hollywood in the most snoopy, glamorous way imaginable. The books feature images and articles sourced from the Life magazine archives, many of them previously unseen. In the 20th century, the aptly named US publication became synonymous with photographically documenting big and small moments of life. The stars of the silver screen were a favourite topic of the Life photographers and on the pages of this sumptuous release, you get to glimpse what they saw – on and off the soundstage. Volume one delves into Hollywood’s Golden Age (1936-1950s) and is peppered with dashing leading men and bright young starlets. It also shows you the cast of characters that kept this opulent merry-go-round going. Volume two follows on from there until 1972 and includes Life’s stories from the set of iconic films like The Godfather and a look at how their editorial team put their famous photo essays together. The gripping, true history book This Earthly Globe: A Venetian Geographer and the Quest to Map the World, Andrea di Robilant (Atlantic Books) The preview of this new nonfi ction work describes it as, “a far-fl ung and delightful homage to one of the founding fathers of geography”. In truth, di Robilant’s skill makes this book, fi lled with intrigue, crafty fact gathering and subtle politicking, seem like one amazing yarn, but it is very much a real tale, albeit a fantastic one. This Earthly Globe tells the story of Giovambattista Ramusio, who was a little-known public servant in the Venetian government. In 1550, he anonymously assembled and edited three volumes – over two million words – that revealed the world to be much larger than anyone had previously imagined. In short, Ramusio helped to map the globe. This was, as the book’s publishers put it, akin to, “the biggest Wikileak of the Renaissance”. History and geography buff s aside, this is a great book for anyone with a thirst for exploration and a curious mind. IMA GE S; SUPPLIED EtA_11Sep2024_EN_60-61_Books_13356179.indd 6125/08/2024 23:1062 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | September 2024 So what’s the story? Going to Nice is always a good idea. With its selling line of having “300 days of sunshine a year”, the jewel of the French Riviera remains a top destination. That is likely why luxury hotel and resort brand Anantara decided to launch its French footprint in the coastal city. Not known for doing things in half measures, the brand acquired one of Nice’s most prized pieces of real estate, located at the entrance to the Golden Square, overlooking Jardin Albert 1er and Promenade des Anglais – the city’s famous stretch of seafront. Tell me more The expansive Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel is hard to miss. A reincarnation of one of the city’s most historic buildings, it still boasts its Belle Epoque façade, which has been a landmark in Nice for many years. The building has undergone signifi cant renovations, although the new hotel preserves its historic charm while incorporating modern amenities and luxury touches. Staying in You might be forgiven for choosing to remain in your room for hours on end, especially if you bag a Grand Premium Sea View room. The suite off ers views of the Mediterranean that you can enjoy from a small private balcony. Of the property’s 151 rooms, 38 of them are suites, some of which off er private terraces. Inside, the rooms are a stylish blend of modern elegance and classic charm. Soft hues of grey, teal and beige, accented by framed photography and golden touches, create a sophisticated atmosphere. The marble bathroom, with its black accents and rain shower, is very spacious, with its EtA_11Sep2024_EN_62-63_Hotel Review_13369768.indd 6225/08/2024 23:12September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 63 hotel report ETIHAD AIRWAYS OFFERS TWO FLIGHTS PER WEEK TO NICE ETIHAD.COM Clockwise from far left: SEEN by Olivier rooftop bar; The hotel’s historic façade remains; Rooms at the hotel are both stylish and spacious; The spa off ers personalised treatments IMA GE S: SUPPLIED mirrored bathroom door a cool touch. There is also the option of the 54-square-metre Baie des Anges signature suite, which off ers a spacious living area, kitchenette and a terrace with stunning views of the Bay of Angels. If you’re seeking even more opulence, the 75-square-metre Presidential Suite on the fi fth fl oor is the perfect choice. This elegant suite features a private terrace ideal for sunbathing or hosting intimate gatherings. All room types are kitted out with state-of the-art amenities and a mini bar that off ers premium brands. Louis Roederer, anyone? Don’t miss One of the hotel’s biggest gems has to be its rooftop venue SEEN by Olivier. Head there for sundowners to enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the morning, it’s worth waking up for the decadent buff et breakfast (and mimosas) served in the same space. You can also order from the breakfast menu. If you’re a fi tness enthusiast, head downstairs to the well-equipped gym but personally, we’d recommend you keep walking towards the spa. The Anantara brand has made a point of off ering a top spa experience across its properties. After a straightforward pre-assessment while sipping your tea, you are in for a treat depending on the treatment you choose from the wide range of massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. Going out Thanks to the hotel’s location, you are a short walk away from the beach and a number of cafés and restaurants. The hotel is also alongside several luxury brand stores. While you could easily spend your time within your immediate locale, make time to head out to Old Nice (Vieux Nice) to enjoy its cobbled roads and quaint aesthetic. Make sure to catch the morning market along the Cours Saleya for a true taste of Niçoise life. The hotel’s concierge team is brilliant and can both advise on and arrange a number of activities. Rates start at $1,654 per night for two incl. breakfast. Check with hotel for latest pricing. EtA_11Sep2024_EN_62-63_Hotel Review_13369768.indd 6325/08/2024 23:1264 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | September 2024 Can’t get enough of Dream Home Makeover or Selling Sunset on Netfl ix? Have you already Marie Kondo-ed your house? Know your Danish hygge from your Swedish friluftsliv? Then these are the podcasts for you. From handy advice for DIY home improvements to aspirational interviews with some of the world’s top interior designers, and plenty of practical tips to get your project started, these series off er a bit of something for anyone looking to live better in their own space. Go on, pull up a chair… You’ll have a burning desire to spruce up your home interiors after you’ve listened to any one of these inspirational podcasts What we’re listening to Fix It Home Improvement With more than 500 episodes of home improvement tips in this long-running podcast’s vault, you’re sure to fi nd what you’re looking for. Fix It Home Improvement, featuring Jacy Elsesser and Cindy Jonsson, promises practical tips and expert advice for tackling a variety of projects for both home and garden. There’s everything from basic DIY repairs to more complex renovations, making it accessible for novices and seasoned handypeople alike. Each episode covers specifi c tasks, often with step-by-step guidance. Recent By Francesca Kirby EtA_11Sep2024_EN_64-65_Podcasts_13356195.indd 6425/08/2024 23:13podcasts September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 65 IMA GE: SHUTTERST OCK instalments have included ice cream makers, wall panelling and even toilet fl ange repairs, plus tips for working with contractors and choosing eco-friendly and healthy products. You name it. Make Space with Cara Newhart There’s a reason The New York Times has sung the praises of this podcast – because Cara Newhart, globally-renowned designer and DIY queen, inspires listeners to transform their living spaces into personalised havens. In its own words: “This show is all about inspiring everyday women to take charge of creating spaces that serve their daily lives.” Newhart shares her creative process, while episodes, which come out every Wednesday, blend practical tips with motivational insights, making home design an attainable endeavour. Recent chats have spanned designing your dream backyard, offi ce optimisation and female-empowered real estate. Homing in by Matt Gibberd and The Modern House What do our homes reveal about who we are? This is the question this fascinating podcast seeks to answer, but it reveals much more. Author Matt Gibberd, who co-founded UK estate agency The Modern House, talks to cultural and creative leaders about the most infl uential space in their lives: their home. This includes architects, designers and homeowners, including recent episodes with Australian comedian Tim Ross, Mr & Mrs Smith co-founder James Lohan and South African architect Sumayya Vally. Each guest talks about a home of their past, their current living space and where they would like to end up, all while uncovering the principles of good design and thoughtful living, off ering a nuanced perspective on contemporary home aesthetics. The Great Indoors While this podcast has been on a little hiatus since March (they promise they’ll be back), there are more than 150 past episodes to dive into until they return. The Great Indoors delves into the latest trends and timeless classics in interior design, hosted by TV presenter and designer Sophie Robinson and best-selling author and journalist Kate Watson-Smyth. In each episode, the duo discusses, debates and guides you through the hottest topics on the home front, from greenwashing to thermal wallpaper and your most authentic colour palettes. They also bring on star guests, off er practical advice and answer listeners’ burning questions. It’s a must- listen for anyone passionate about creating stylish and functional living spaces. Aff ordable Interior Design by Uploft World-renowned interior designer and author Betsy Helmuth brings us more than 400 episodes that prove stylish homes don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Helmuth owns Uploft Interior Design and has been featured on some of the biggest US TV channels, and has even found time to write a best-selling book on the same subject. She shares cost-eff ective strategies for achieving high-end looks on a budget, each episode fi lled with creative ideas to make interior design accessible to everyone. This includes colour palettes, pattern mixing, budget creation, layout maximisation and more. Decorating Tips and Tricks We’re talking well over 600 episodes of useful advice to get your home improvement project started on Decorated Tips and Tricks, from Bespoke FM. It’s almost like hiring a free decorator, as hosts Anita Joyce and Yvonne Pratt share their extensive knowledge on décor, off ering easy-to-follow tips and budget-friendly tricks, with recent topics including downsizing, making a rental a home, summer trends, design crimes and more. Each episode inspires creativity, helping listeners transform their spaces, no matter what phase of life they’re in. Monocle On Design This is less practical advice, more sophisticated reportage and commentary on global trends that drive the design world. Brought to us by Nic Monisse, the design editor at global media brand Monocle, the show features in-depth interviews with leading designers and insightful discussions on industry innovation. It’s everything you need to know about the world of design, from furniture to fashion and craft to architecture, with news stories, new fi nds and the most up-and-coming industry professionals. This is perfect for those who appreciate the fi ner details of design. House Guest by Country & Town House Host Carole Annett invites listeners into the homes of notable personalities from the world of design. These are the people behind the spaces you see in magazines – and she explores the unique styles and personal stories behind their décor choices. Think award-winning British interior designer Katharine Pooley, who’s designed homes from the Middle East to Mayfair, and Interior Design Masters winner and maximalism-lover Roisin Quinn. It’s an intimate look at how design refl ects individual tastes and lifestyles – the ideal inspirational fodder for budding interior designers. EtA_11Sep2024_EN_64-65_Podcasts_13356195.indd 6525/08/2024 23:1366 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | September 2024 Explore Johannesburg through one of the South African city’s hidden gems – its urban art, murals and sculptures By Jo Buitendach Photography Francis Baloyi Johannesburg, Joburg or Jozi as it is fondly known, may be South Africa’s economic powerhouse but it’s also an urban art hotspot. Only 138 years old, the former mining town, now sprawling city, is unapologetically gritty, energetic and pan-African. Surprisingly, it’s also full of art. While the city centre, a somewhat lower socioeconomic space, may be seen to be less of a tourist attraction, it is in fact a place of hope and creativity for many who call it home. The city features a thriving urban art movement comprising of statues, murals and loads of world-class graffi ti. This array of creativity contributes to community identity, fosters pride, a sense of belonging and helps transform and bring colour to this concrete jungle. So what better way is there to truly understand the heartbeat of one of Africa’s most important cities than through its urban art? Oh, and of course, the art is free to view for everyone – locals and tourists alike. THE ART CITY BEATING OF THE EtA_11Sep2024_EN_66-73_Feature-JHB Urban Art Scene_13356191.indd 6625/08/2024 23:15urban art September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 67 EtA_11Sep2024_EN_66-73_Feature-JHB Urban Art Scene_13356191.indd 6725/08/2024 23:1568 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | September 2024 THE WRITINGS ON THE WALL Graffi ti in Africa has a rich and complex history, intertwined with the continent’s social and political landscape. It has evolved from a rebellious act to a potent tool for expression and social change. In South Africa, it became a tool of resistance against apartheid, expressing the frustrations and aspirations of a marginalised population. Today, it has also come to celebrate some of the now democratic society’s heroes and several achievements. Award-winning South African street artist and muralist Dbongz who is responsible for some of Johannesburg’s most powerful artworks says: “I like painting in Jozi because it’s the mecca of graffi ti in Africa. It’s a vibrant city, it’s busy and hustle oriented.” He adds: “I like painting for the everyday people on the streets, to give them an uplifting sight to view and ponder, a sense of hope and faith and a reminder to be resilient and keep moving, no matter what.” Although graffi ti can be seen all over the city, we suggest that you start by exploring Newtown and Braamfontein. Newtown is a historic industrial area on the western edge of the city. The M1 De Villiers Graaff motorway runs above the area, with the highway pillars on and around Mary Fitzgerald Square serving as some of the city’s major graffi ti spots. Dbongz was commissioned by city authorities to uplift the area by painting notable jazz musicians on the pillars and surrounding walls (see previous page). These include music greats Kippie Moeketsi, Miriam Makeba and Sibongile Khumalo. A short drive away, on the northern edge of the city is Braamfontein. The area is home to many a cool young university student, funky eateries, galleries and theatres. It also features plenty of street art, including murals by international artists like Shepard Fairey. There, you’ll also fi nd Grayscale, a graffi ti paint shop and the heart of the local graffi ti community. The shop sells spray paint, books and markers and has a gallery space where regular graffi ti exhibitions are held. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a unique piece of art on your travels. Grayscalestore.co.za STRIKE A POSE One of the city’s main calling cards is its meaningful public art structures. Leading the charge are the numerous commemorative sculptures sponsored by both the government and private companies. Overall, there are hundreds of sculptures to see across the city, but these are a few must-see artworks: Newtown Heads by Americo Guambe and team of wood carvers A remarkable public art installation, the Newtown Heads were created by a team of wood carvers led by Mozambican artist Americo Guambe. These wooden heads have become one of the city’s most iconic symbols. The project was initiated in 2001 as part of the revitalisation of Newtown into a cultural precinct. Over 500 wooden heads, carved from recycled railway sleepers are spread across the area. Each head represents the diverse faces of Africa, refl ecting the rich cultural heritage of the continent. Location: Mary Fitzgerald Square and surrounding streets, Newtown EtA_11Sep2024_EN_66-73_Feature-JHB Urban Art Scene_13356191.indd 6825/08/2024 23:15urban art September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 69 EtA_11Sep2024_EN_66-73_Feature-JHB Urban Art Scene_13356191.indd 6925/08/2024 23:15Next >