It’s no secret that we are big fans of Tala, founder of myfashdiary.com. Dubai-bred fashion blogger Tala Samman writes about things she is absolutely passionate about – Fashion, Beauty, Travel and Food. When it comes to Eat Shop Play, she is the ideal go-to for valuable tips. Tala shares the hippest spots ranging from restaurants to boutiques in her 3 favorite destinations: Dubai, Montreal and Abu Dhabi.

Dubai
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Dubai is home to some of the best restaurants in the region. Of course, make sure you visit the hottest restaurants of the moment – Coya, Zuma, La Petite Maison, La Serre and Roberto’s but a true Dubaiian will only know Teatro – which is a must visit for great atmosphere, delicious food (sushi, curries & Indian dishes) as well as impeccable service.

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If it’s your first time, definitely check out the Gold Souq but if there’s one boutique worth checking out, it has to be S*uce – one of the most kitsch and curated buys. They sell everything from cool local brands, smaller international brands to big names like Mary Katrantzou. If you like edgier buys, check out Mahani in Emirates Towers.

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If you can manage to come to Dubai at a certain time, definitely try to make it during Arts night and Art Dubai – great way to see some culture in the city. During the cooler months, Ripe Market on a Friday at Zabeel Park is worth checking out for a lovely morning for the organic market, food stalls, and fab atmosphere. For a night out, grab a drink at Iris (a rooftop lounge from Beirut) and end with a night out at Electric Days.

Montreal
Eat
If you love Almond croissants, I know a place who makes the best ones in the world (I promise, I’ve tried SO many!) – Premiere Moisson, get ready for marzipan and almond goodness. For brunch, check out the adorable Regine Cafe and make sure to have their caramelised onion grilled cheese.
For a sweet tooth, have the fondue at Juliette et Chocolat – A traditional classic Beavertail pastry is a must in Montreal too

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Whenever I’m in Montreal, I tend to stop by Editorialist every few days – they buy unknown cool brands, that are very LA inspired. Not to mention, their price range is just over high street, which is affordable!

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I’m a little crazy, but fitness falls down under play for me – and yes, I do workout even when on holiday. I’m obsessed with MAA, a gym in Montreal and do their barre classes AND Aerial Yoga whenever I’m in the city. They do teach some of the best Aerial Yoga classes, and make you feel incredibly comfortable hanging upside down. For nights out in the Summer, Montreal have some of the best outdoor bars and lounges – my favourite is New City Gas, which turns into a club later on. I also love Grinder and Richmond – which are indoors, but just as good.

Abu Dhabi
Eat
Two years ago, 2 young women started doing monthly invite only pop up dinners around the city in chic secret settings with a different menu every time. Seeing what their guests were loving and leaning towards, they opened their own restaurant cafe No.57 cafe in Abu Dhabi. Minimal marbles and signature dishes, this is one place to eat at when in Abu Dhabi.

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Why shop in Abu Dhabi when you have Dubai next door? Just joking! The newly opened YAS mall is huge and gorgeous… it’s a country of malls. You should also check out cool new boutique, The Luxury Arcade.

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Definitely visit Ferrari world while you’re there, but add some culture and visit one of the most beautiful mosques around, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque – yes the same mosque Kendall Jenner and Rihanna visited. For evenings, I would say go for something refined like dinner on Maryah Island – like Zuma or Bentley Bar & Bistro.