Who are the pilgrims riding from Spain to Makkah on horseback, reviving an Andalusian tradition?
In this episode of Culture Bites, hosts Enas Refaei and Farah Andrews trace the journey of pilgrims who rode all the way from Spain to Makkah on horseback.
The riders crossed 6,500km over seven months to arrive at the holy site in time for Hajj. Inspired by a promise that one of them made to himself 36 years earlier, the journey recreates the Andalusian tradition performed by Muslims 500 years ago. Enas and Farah reflect on the pilgrims' role in representing their faith and community to the world.
The hosts also discuss the South Asian and Arabic influences in western pop music and hip-hop. The latest example is Sapphire, a new song by Ed Sheeran in which he sings a line in Punjabi. But he is certainly not the first.
Our hosts recall some of the big hits from artists such as Jay-Z, Britney Spears and Aaliyah that have sampled tracks from the region, and they pose the question, where do we draw the line between collaboration and appropriation?
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The Definitive Guide To Ibiza: The Ultra-Luxe Spots To Dine, Stay And Explore
Forget everything you think you know about Ibiza. Beyond its legendary nightlife lies an island of refined indulgence, mindful escapes, and breathtaking beauty. Discover HBA's ultimate guide to experiencing the very best of the White Isle this summer… Ibiza is an island of dualities, where barefoot luxury meets spiritual serenity. While its world-renowned clubs have earned global acclaim, the island's original allure came from something far gentler. In the 1960s, seekers of peace and purpose arrived here, drawn by Ibiza's magnetic energy and natural beauty. That legacy lives on in its tranquil coves, meditative hikes, restorative spas and sublime sunsets. Today, Ibiza is no longer just a sanctuary for escapists or hedonists – it's become a destination for the refined traveller, offering everything from exquisite farm-to-table dining to serene cliffside retreats. But with such a breadth of experiences – from the indulgent to the immersive – it can be difficult to know where to begin. Allow us to guide you through the very best of the White Isle for 2025. Where To Stay Monigbello Named after the fictional Italian coastal town from Patricia Highsmith's classic novel The Talented Mr Ripley, Mongibello brings the Amalfi to the Balearics with chic sophistication. From the moment you step inside, the hotel feels elegantly thoughtful and immersive in its design. Mongibello drips with cool, from the Roman busts complete with neckerchiefs to the neon signs and 1950s jukebox; it's tongue-in-cheek without ever being kitsch. The hotel's sleek, patterned blue flooring – a theme throughout – flows out to its divine and sizeable pool, where DJs provide an Italo Disco soundtrack, blurring the decades but staying true to its Italian roots. The rooms offer a similar slice of glam, with each suite a tribute to an Ibiza legend, including hippie icon Antonio Escohotado and Jaunito Mari, patron of Ibiza's famous Hippie Market Las Dalias. Don't be fooled by the semi-themed nature of this hotel; this is not style over substance. Mongibello delivers on its promise to bring 'the charm of the 60s' – and all of its grace, sophistication and glamour – to the White Isle. Petunia As you make your way towards the southwest of Ibiza, through winding roads and pine-covered hills, you can feel the island changing. Parties, clubs and busy restaurants are behind you as you weave your way towards Petunia, a beautiful hotel located in a serene corner of Ibiza. There's a good reason for its remote nature – apart from the tranquillity – it faces one of Ibiza's most iconic locations: Es Vedra. Much has been said about the striking rock island that juts proudly from the Mediterranean Sea, with stories claiming it's a remnant of the lost city of Atlantis or a portal to another realm. Regardless of its lore, there's no denying Es Vedra captures the imagination, and Petunia's location overlooking the rock makes it one of Ibiza's most exclusive spots. The hotel itself is a mix of traditional Ibizan design – think fincas and casas, whitewashed walls and wooden fixtures – and modern elegance, combining luxury with tradition. Its considered architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and only adds to the sense of comfort, opulence and mystique. With only 17 rooms and 25 suites, Petunia oozes exclusivity and class. A must-stay for anyone looking to immerse themselves in timeless Ibizan tradition. Mikasa While most might know the White Isle for its golden beaches, sparkling sea and bustling nightlife, Ibiza Old Town is an unsung hero of the island, combining boutique shops, quaint cafes and over a thousand years of history throughout its winding walls and cobbled streets. At night, it pulsates with energy and history as al fresco diners engage in deep conversation long into the wee hours. If you're keen on staying close to the marginally more cosmopolitan end of Ibiza, Mikasa boutique hotel could be perfect for you. The cute casa is tucked away on the edge of Marina Botafoch, just a few minutes' drive from Ibiza Old Town, and a short stroll from the cafes, restaurants and bars of the boujie waterfront. Channelling the holistic spirit of the White Isle — think: lacquered stone, macramé and bohemian stylings — Mikasa 's 16 rooms offer an elegant, peaceful design that's refreshingly fuss-free. While it's close to the high-end shops of Botafoch, it's also a short stroll to Talamanca beach, and a ten-minute walk to clubs Pacha and Chinois, meaning everything Ibiza has to offer is on your doorstep. Before you venture anywhere, though, take a moment on the Mikasa terrace, where Ibiza's legendary sunsets cast a golden glow over the silhouetted walls of the historic Dalt Vila. Magical. While Mikasa doesn't have its own pool, the gorgeous CLAP House Ibiza is a six-minute drive away. Offering a Japanese-Mediterranean fusion menu and a stunning pool, CLAP also features the Dubai-born SEVEN Wellness Club on-site to help you unwind through yoga, Pilates, and other sensual spa treatments. Where To Dine JUL's Ibiza is an island of hidden gems, and few are more precious than JUL'S. Situated on a small side road near Ibiza Airport, you could easily miss this Mediterranean fusion restaurant, but do so at your peril. Founded in 2020, and now with another location in Athens and a London franchise on the way, JUL'S has developed a name for itself, not only for its exquisite gastronomy but for its vast wine cellar and bespoke cocktails, many of which are developed in their own 'mixology laboratory'. Many of the chef's ingredients are harvested from JUL'S own two-hectare estate on the island, committing to the farm-to-table philosophy and ensuring fresh, seasonal produce across its menu. There's enough here for meat lovers and veggies alike, with dedicated caviar and wagyu menus, delicate pastas and salads, and local fish and meat from the open fire. The setting is equally considered, offering peaceful but opulent decor and a refined sense of style and class. The exceptional service is attentive without being disruptive, and the timing of each dish – and fresh pour – is immaculate. JUL'S is a fantastic choice for that final night dinner, or special occasion, and once you're inside, you won't want to leave. Finca La Plaza Santa Gertrudis is one of Ibiza's more quaint and familial villages. Its charming fortress church and pedestrianised square hint at a bygone Ibiza, when locals worked the land and lived in small, isolated communities, long before tourists arrived in their millions. One finca from that era – in fact, the oldest building in the whole village – has been elegantly transformed into one of Ibiza's most charming restaurants. Finca La Plaza styles itself on Mediterranean produce and cooking, proudly proclaiming, 'If it's on your plate, it likely arrived from the farm or sea that same morning.' Whether you immerse yourself in its beautifully lit garden at night, or opt to sit inside the historical finca, La Plaza is that rare gem of a restaurant that offers exceptional gastronomy while retaining a chic yet homely setting. They describe their style as 'smoked, slow and seriously satisfying', and we couldn't say it better ourselves. You can feel the generations who cooked here, and you can taste that experience too. A must-visit. Casa Maca This 300-year-old farmhouse turned restaurant and boutique hotel also connects the past to the present. Its lavender fields, fig and fruit trees, thoughtfully designed suites, and a lush, sparkling swimming pool come together to create a peaceful retreat where time appears to stand still. Even if you're not staying on-site, you can enjoy its open-fire grill restaurant, with many ingredients grown on the hotel's own organic farm. Spectacular views of Dalt Vila provide the perfect backdrop for live Balearic music and DJs, while fresh meat, fish, and vegetables are slowly smoked as guests soak in the magical atmosphere. The Airstream bar serves cocktails during the summer months, making Casa Maca an Ibiza staple and a place that captures the island's spirit perfectly. Try and catch it on a full moon for that extra special ambience. Explore Cruise Ibiza While Ibiza's beauty is clear from the shore, to experience its true energy, it has to be seen from the water. Whether it's a trip round Es Vedra, a jaunt to neighbouring – and stunning – island Formentara or just a circle round Ibiza's own private coves and swimming spots, no White Isle trip is complete without a boat day. Cruise Ibiza offer luxury boat and yacht charter for up to twelve people, which includes a skipper, fuel, snorkelling equipment and drinks for the day. Forget rickety sailboats or spluttering motors, these yachts are top of the range, and with their built-in Bluetooth speakers, the only thing you'll need to worry about is how to soundtrack your trip as you bounce along the Mediterranean waves. Each charter is customisable, but if you do decide to make the trip to the white sands of Formentera, make sure to book Besos Beach restaurant in advance, as it fills up quickly in the summer months. Ibiza Hike Station As you may have picked up so far, Ibiza isn't just about its world-famous nightlife. The island offers beauty at every turn if you know where to look, and no one knows better than Manuel at Ibiza Hike Station. Offering a range of hikes and walks for fitness and experience levels, Manuel can take you to new heights, combining adventure with wellness and letting you explore the island in a totally new way. Hikes last three to five hours and are private, so Manuel can create a custom route tailored to your fitness and needs for the day, whether it's a leisurely, slow-paced affair or a steep climb for unique views and Instagram-worthy moments. Find out more on his site and make sure you always hike with a licensed guide. Nightlife The Balearic Islands' club culture has been attracting revellers looking for escapism since Pacha opened its doors in 1973. While many trends (and clubs) have come and gone, it's retained its reputation as one of the world's premium party spots. Whether it's daytime poolside partying at Ushuaïa, the epic production at newcomer [UNVRS], the chic and quirky Pikes Hotel – a favourite of Freddie Mercury and George Michael – or Marina Botafoch's glamorous Chinois, electronic music lovers will be spoiled for choice any night of the week. Why not try The Standard Ibiza 's rooftop bar and restaurant UP for pre-drinks? It's a great spot to soak up the anticipation before you hit the dancefloor. We recommend their Sunset Paloma as the perfect pre-party tipple alongside their pop-up with Burberry running all season long. Beach Beachouse Believe it or not, this boujie beachclub and restaurant was the original site of what became Ushuaïa Ibiza. As the towers of Playa d'En Bossa have grown around it, Beachouse has remained a peaceful sanctuary, offering the full Ibiza experience in one gorgeous location. From sunrise yoga on the beach, followed by a wholesome breakfast, transition to the beds or enjoy a dip in the ocean, before returning for contemporary Mediterranean dining, curated by F&B Director Gennaro Vitto and Executive Chef Sergio Cardeñosa. If you're still keen for more, LUNAR, Beachouse's full-moon ritual experience, channels the energy of the island through music and choice cuisine across three sacred nights. From sunrise to sunset and beyond, Beachouse represents all the magic of Ibiza in one place. El Silencio The Bohemian lifestyle has been a staple of Ibiza since the 1960s. Many of the White Isle's restaurants, bars and beach clubs continue to channel that energy to this day, and El Silencio embodies that spirit to perfection. Designed by Moredesign Studio and known for its spectacular sunsets, El Silencio feels like an exclusive, if-you-know-you-know beach spot. With cuisine curated by three-Michelin-star chef Mauro Colagreco, this is no beach shack – El Silencio combines stunning nature and elegant gastronomy. If you're looking for sand-free swimming, there's also a pool to cool off, post-lunch. The Cala Molí spot has also recently opened a new vinyl-only listening bar, URUSAI; a first on the island. Curated by Jaime Fiorito, son of Balearic pioneer and Ibiza legend DJ Alfredo, URUSAI's programming combines rare and reissued vinyl from the 1970s up to the 2000s, all powered by a custom-built, studio-grade soundsystem. El Silencio is more than just a luxury spot to top up your tan; it authentically connects with Ibiza's past, present and future, musically, gastronomically and culturally. Cala Gracioneta Over on the West of the island, where you'll get the best view of Ibiza's famous golden sunsets, is a small inlet cove that's been an island fave for many years. Cala Gracioneta is graced in the familiar stylings of the Balearics, with its thick rope, pastel earth tones, macramé and local, rich carpentry, providing a connection to the earth above and sands below. By day, Gracioneta's boujie beach beds are the perfect place to laze the day away, sipping cocktails and cooling off in its lapping waves, before enjoying lunch at the Mediterranean-rooted restaurant. Once again, it's an open-grill affair, with fresh catch from the seas below paired with the likes of roasted pumpkin with burrata, pesto and candied seeds and semi-cured cheese with Ibizan sobrasada, honey and local rosemary. Yum-yum. Sunset, and what a sunset, doesn't mean it's time to go home. At night, the setting comes alive, with the soft glow of the candles and tealights soundtracked by the sea, the perfect way to unwind after a day in the sun. Gorgeous.
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Anil Kapoor, Boney Kapoor offer prayers in Rishikesh
Veteran actor Anil Kapoor recently paid a visit to the pilgrimage centre of Rishikesh in northern India. He was accompanied by his brother, the movie producer Boney Kapoor. During their visit, they met with Swami Chidanand Saraswati at Parmarth Niketan Ashram. Boney and Anil Kapoor offered prayers for their late mother. #WATCH | Rishikesh, Uttarakhand | Actor Anil Kapoor, along with his brother and film producer Boney Kapoor, visited Parmarth Niketan. — ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2025 Anil said he feels blessed whenever he comes to Rishikesh. Nirmal Kapoor, mother of Anil, Sanjay and Boney Kapoor breathed her last on May 2, 2025, following a brief hospitalisation at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. She was 90. A few days after the demise of his mother, Anil took to Instagram and expressed gratitude for those who stood with the family during this tough time. "The love pouring in from all walks of life has been overwhelming. I truly don't have the words to express how deeply grateful we are," he wrote. He added, "My mother touched so many lives, not just directly but through the people she nurtured, supported, and loved. She was one of those remarkable women who never stood in the spotlight but whose strength held everyone together. A silent pillar, always smiling, always caring, always bringing warmth to those around her." The ace star said how his mother kept the "family close". "She was the glue that kept our family close, from our children to our grandchildren, and even our extended family and friends," shared the Animal actor. "Her love reached far and wide, and it's clear from the outpouring of messages and affection that she made a lasting impact on so many hearts."
UAE Moments
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The First Teaser for Humayun Saeed's New Drama is Out
The first teaser for Pakistani stars Sajal Aly and Humayun Saeed's highly anticipated drama 'Mein Manto Nahi Hoon' was released on Friday, June 20, revealing an emotionally-charged story and a star-studded cast. Alongside Aly and Saeed, the drama features Asif Raza Mir, Sanam Saeed Mirza, Azaan Sami Khan, Nameer Khan, Saba Faisal, Saba Hamid, and many others. The director of 'Love Guru', Nadeem Baig, has directed this drama and the writer of 'Meray Paas Tum Ho', Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar. The teaser revealed teary moments, angry confrontations, and a magical wedding. The teaser does not reveal much about the plot, but fans are anxiously waiting for the premiere of the drama. The drama is set to release after the release of Humayun Saeed's hit film 'Love Guru', which premiered on Eid Al Adha and featured Mahira Khan as his leading lady. After playing the charismatic, romantic hero, fans are excited to see Humayun Saeed in this new avatar.
