Sonia Majumder

One of those random weeks that just flowed. Nothing big, but it all hit right. An unexpected goodbye, a cute outfit, a new book that actually made sense and suddenly, I’m in my feels about patterns, people, and the perfect summer salad. Maybe it’s the heat, maybe it’s the city slowing down, but I’ve been gravitating toward things that feel light: neon arcades, cotton prints, cafés with pastel colors and greenery.

Here’s what’s been on my radar lately, a little farewell, a little fashion, a little feta.

Farewell, Serendipity

Last week, I bumped into an old colleague completely by chance, one of those serendipitous run-ins that remind you Dubai is small. Turns out, he’s leaving the country for good, and I went to his farewell at Brass Monkey. I liked that it was an easy going gathering with some genuinely interesting people. Everyone had a side project, someone was vlogging about food, another was writing a book, someone else started a clothing brand. It felt like everyone was building something beyond their day job. I was also reminded of old songs Ceelo Green’s “F*** You”, Michael Bublé, and some Red Hot Chili Peppers. We finished the night playing pool. I hadn’t stepped into an arcade in a long time, but seeing the neon Pac-Man machines brought back flashes of high school.

Summer Style: Living in Patterns

I’ve been leaning into soft patterns and prints lately. Swirls that remind me of the sea, florals in gardens, subtle paisleys that feel borrowed from another time. Patterns that hint at nature and culture. Anything that makes me feel like I’m on a summer holiday (even if I’m just heading to work or grabbing coffee). This one is from Zara, light cotton, embroidered with tiny mirrored details and delicate flowers with an ethnic indian feel. It’s contemporary yet traditional. And it made me realise how drawn I’ve been to pieces that carry a trace of elsewhere, places I know, places I miss, and places I’ve never been.

Café with Golf Course Views

I stopped by Brunch & Cake at Emirates Hills this week, the one beside the Montgomery Golf Club. It’s bright, spacious, and carefully styled in soft pastels and greenery. The café and patio that overlooks the golf course and has a light, open feel. Once the heat settles, the patio is a nice spot to sit outdoors and sip on a cooling drink. I went to get some writing done, away from my usual home setup. I like the neighbourhood itself, it has a tucked-in, residential ambience. A bit more private, with a cosy community feel. Palm trees line the streets, and there’s more greenery than you expect this close to the city.

A Book to Read
I picked up The Art of People by Dave Kerpen, and it’s surprisingly insightful. It has tips about building real connections, understanding yourself, reading people, finding the right collaborators, and navigating conflict with more awareness. In a time when most of our interactions start or end on a screen, the book is a reminder that real connection still matters. That’s how we listen, speak, and respond, even in small moments, things can change everything. It’s one of those books you can flip open anywhere and find something that applies instantly.

Fresh Things to Eat
Current favourite: watermelon, feta, mint, and a squeeze of lemon. Just the right mix of salty and sweet, with a bright, fresh smell that makes the heat feel less oppressive. It’s become a go-to at any time of day, a little pick-me-up that takes less than ten minutes to throw together. The colours alone are enough reason to make it.