Abi:original - If you aren't original, what are you?

We recently visited the Museum of Illusions Dubai, and were completely immersed in a world of discovery. Situated in the quaint Al Seef District, the city’s newest Instagram haven and edutainment venue, is fun for the whole family. The largest branch in the chain’s 14-strong global network, Museum of Illusions Dubai is filled with an array of tricks and mind-boggling puzzles that is certain to keep you hooked. The museum features a range of illusions, displays and games to suit visitors of all ages. For me, the highlight was the Vortex Tunnel, the first of its kind in the UAE! The tunnel gives you an immediate dizzy feeling. It is as if the ground is shifting under your feet as you navigate through a rotating cylinder – which surprisingly remains a stable and flat surface! Once you get to the other side, you will be certain to try it again. The Mirror Room is equally fun, as is the Infinity Room. Every exploratory area tempts you to resist the laws of gravity and shapes.

When a friend asked me what's the one article I feel proud to have written, it has got to me this. A few years ago, an Editor from Gulf News rang up asking for interesting ideas for Breast Cancer awareness. I didn't want to do the run-of-the-mill pieces about dealing with the dreaded disease. Instead I opted for a look at women who have overcome all obstacles and shine as a beacon of light for us all. I'm happy to have interviewed women of various nationalities and walks of life for this piece. We got to know each other in a short span of time and were able to meet up for a special photo shoot for the cover story. Each of the women come from different walks of life but their laughter still resonates in my ears. I learnt a lot from each and everyone of them. This is the outcome. https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/survivors-and-winners-all-1.1909757 Survivors and winners all By Abigail Mathias - Special to GN Focus Nafisa Mohammad Youssef, Late 50

Location is everything.  Not every eatery can offer scenic views to its guests. Fish and Bread in the UAE, offers all this and much more. Situated at the heart of Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, this modest eatery offers the most delectable South Indian, Italian and Arabic meals. Many visitors choose to catch the sunset, while others sit under the stars and dine here, amid the backdrop of fountains and greenery. The service is quick and friendly. Appetizers include salt and pepper crispy squid or golden calamari. For mains, the Chemmeen Manga curry is a must try. It is made with raw mango and prawns and is served in a clay pot and is bursting with flavour. It is paired with steamed white rice. Another particularly tempting dish is the beef parotha. Made in authentic South Indian flavours, it is a medley of rich flavours which bursts in your mouth. Instead of the usual chapatti, you may want to try the Tapioca bread or 'Kappa,' which can be paired with a vegetar

Many people from my home country, India often say that Dubai is so much like home. That is pretty accurate. With so many residents from the sub-continent and a plethora of Indian dining options, it is easy to forget that home-sick feeling. One venue that pulls out all the stops offering an authentic Indian dining option, is Bar Baar. This fun gastronomic pub located at Majestic Hotel, Bur Dubai, is designed in a colourful desi-style. From various comfy couches, to film posters and an array of mouth - watering treats, the venue is sure to leave you delighted. We actually dined on an old carrom board! The Thela Bar Baar brunch is set up on Fridays from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at Dhs. 99 without drinks. With live music and a few brightly lit up food stalls, I knew we were in for a treat when we walked in. Lovers of spirits can try the brunch for Dhs. 199 and premium spirits at Dhs. 259 respectively. Choose from a varied quirky selection of 65 dishes from savoury snacks to main

Long drives have always been a joy for my family. We start out with a prayer and listen to our favourite music along the way. This time we travelled with a great companion, the all new 2018 Honda - CRV. With its ample back seat we had enough room to load snacks and supplies for the way. We drove from Sharjah to Jabal Hafeet mountain. One of the best aspects of the sun roof is keeping it open in the cooler months. We were able to do this and take a few pictures when we had parked and had some tea. We made a stop at the hot springs located close by and then decided to visit the Al Ain Zoo. Impromptu trips have never been so much fun. Loving every moment in this, my dream vehicle.

Film Director, Atul Manjrekar An interview by Abigail Mathias  He was one of the silliest guys in college. Walked around with a red bandana singing Kishore Kumar songs. At least that’s how I remember my friend, Atul Manjrekar. Cut to 20 years later. And now Atul is the director of a major Bollywood film, a musical drama, called  Fanney Khan . The film stars leading actors Anil Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Rajkumar Rao. Thankfully Atul is still the pun cracker I remember, except he is clearly in another league. Atul’s first feature film will release in a few days and I can’t help but beam with pride. The film has already crossed many millions in trailer views on YouTube. Fanney Khan is played by the ever-youthful Anil Kapoor, who’s struggling to fulfill the dreams of his daughter, Lata who wishes to be a singer. The film releases in India on August 3. It’s taken me three days to get 10 minutes to talk to the busy director. “Aren’t you excited that your first b