True cookie monsters know that a chewy, crunchy cookie takes the cake any day. In our quest to find sweet treats that truly satisfy our sugar cravings, we stumbled upon Crumble Cookies serving New York-style cookies. Based out of the twin cities, Crumble Cookies has a selection of five delicious flavours. Each one is a delightful adventure for the taste buds. The cookies are available either individually or in boxes of four or eight, allowing you to choose the perfect quantity to satisfy your cravings.

One of the standout features of Crumble Cookies is that they bake their cookies to order. This means that every cookie you receive is served fresh out of the oven. While this may require a bit of patience, with orders taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour to prepare, it is an experience that is worth the wait. Let us dive into a detailed review of the menu and the flavours that Crumble Cookies has to offer.

The Menu and Flavour: Crumble Cookies only serves cookies. They keep it simple with five core flavours including:

1. Classic Chocolate Chip: The classic cookie is a timeless favourite. It offers the perfect balance of sweetness, a generous amount of chocolate chips, and a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is hard to resist. The flavour of sweet from the chocolate and salty from the butter is balanced flawlessly. This cookie is not too sweet which makes it hands down of the best cookies Crumble Cookies has to offer.
2. Chocolate Chip Walnut: Unfortunately, the Chocolate Chip Walnut did not quite live up to expectations. While it boasts the same impeccable cookie base as the other flavours, the walnut pieces failed to provide the expected crunch and depth of flavour. A key reason to eat a walnut cookie is for texture which this cookie inevitably lacked. This is not to say that there is not walnut flavour, it just feels like an after-thought.
3. Hershey’s Double Chocolate: The Hershey’s Double Chocolate cookie is a dream come true for the ultimate chocoholic. This cookie is rich, moist, and loaded with an intense chocolate flavour that will satisfy even the most insatiable sweet tooth. However, this cookie can feel a bit heavy post-munching.
4. Nutella-filled Chocolate Chip: The Nutella-filled Chocolate Chip cookie, as the name suggests, has a luscious Nutella centre that reveals itself when you break the cookie apart. This theatrical performance is tempting even for those who are not fans of Nutella. Flavour-wise this cookie is rich and leans a bit stronger on the sweetness scale. The texture is perfectly balanced as the crunch of the cookie meets the gooeyness of the Nutella.
5. PB&H: Peanut butter lovers will find solace in the PB&H cookie which is reminiscent of the beloved Reese's cups. This cookie is a decent blend of peanut butter and chocolate. The peanut butter adds a sharp flavour to the cookie offering relief from the sweetness.

Pricing: A single Classic Chocolate Chip cookie is for Rs.220. The Walnut and Hershey’s are both for Rs. 240, Nutella is for Rs. 260 and PB&H is for Rs. 280. A box of four cookies will set you back by Rs. 1740, excluding delivery charges.

Read more: Your Ultimate Guide to Foolproof Streetstyle

Pickup & Delivery Options: Crumble Cookies is in F11, Islamabad, and has a convenient pick-up spot in Chaklala Scheme III, Rawalpindi. The cookies can also be delivered across Rawalpindi and Islamabad to your doorstep. Simply reach out to them via their number or their Instagram profile and order.

Final Impressions: While the variety of flavours might not be extensive, the quality of the cookies more than makes up for it. The aroma of Crumble Cookies alone is enough to attract any unsuspecting passerby. Each cookie is a combination of soft, crunchy, and chewy, all in one bite. Notably, they are not overly oily or greasy, and the balance of butter in the recipe is spot on. What truly sets Crumble Cookies apart is the quality of the chocolate they use, which adds a rich, decadent flavour to every bite. However, there is one caveat: if you are not a fan of chocolate, you might find the flavour options limited. But for the chocolate lovers, this is a dream come true.

Go ahead and place your order. Your taste buds will thank you, and you will find yourself coming back for more.

Side Note: Crumble Cookies deserves a standing ovation for their social media game. Even if you do not like cookies or desserts, follow their page for hilarious content that is tailored to the local context!

The post Food Review: Crumble Cookies appeared first on HUM News English.

In the world of fashion, the streets have become the ultimate runway for self-expression, and mastering the art of street style is synonymous to curating your personal narrative through clothing. From the foundational choices that set the stage to the smallest of accessories that add the finishing touch, every element of your outfit speaks volumes. Your street style is a reflection of who you are and what you stand for. In this guide, we delve into the nuances of foolproof street style, offering insights and tips to help you craft a look that resonates with your unique personality.

The Foundation – Pants

Let's start by laying out the foundation of your foolproof streetstyle look. The right pair of pants can set the tone for your outfit. Choose wide-legged, straight, or cargo pants over opting for skinny jeans. Go for denim or other fabrics that fit well and complement your body shape. Ripped, distressed jeans convey a rebellious edge, while high-waisted mom jeans exude vintage cool. Your choice of pants sets the tone for your look, so choose wisely, considering your personal style and comfort.

Recommendation: Genie has great options for a variety of denim pants. Klimt offers a decent selection of cargo pants.

Bold Tee

Streetstyle is about celebrating who you are and what you believe in. A graphic tee can help make that striking statement. When choosing a tee, look for one that not only fits well but showcases your personality through unique graphics, witty slogans, or vibrant prints. This is the canvas on which you will build your distinctive style. The length of your tee is also important for a balanced silhouette. Remember, you are pairing this top with loose fitted denim, so it is critical to understand hemlines. If possible, opt for a cropped tee. If not, tuck your tee in to reflect a shorter hemline. This will allow you to maintain a reasonably structured look that is not all over the place.

Recommendation: You will find tees at almost all streetstyle brands like Outfitters, The Warehouse and Tooney Teez.

Statement Piece

A piece of jewelry has the power to make a statement. It can infuse personality into any streetstyle look. Whether it's a chunky chain, a beaded masterpiece, or a pendant with a pop of color, this accessory has the potential to tie your entire outfit together. Your choice of statement jewelry can transform a basic look into a head-turning ensemble, so pick one that resonates with your style.

Recommendation: Zohra Rahman and Esfir are great options, albeit a bit pricey. For more affordable investments, check out Esmeralda.

Street Sneakers

Street style is synonymous with comfort and mobility, making sneakers the ideal footwear choice. The secret is to find sneakers that are both stylish and offer comfort. Classic white sneakers offer a clean and versatile look and can never go wrong! While colorful or patterned options can inject an element of surprise into your outfit. Be sure to balance out your top with your shoes. If you are opting for a loud tee, prefer white sneakers to soften your look. If you are going with a plain tee, opt for patterned sneakers. 

Recommendation: For exceptional comfort opt for Bata or Ndure. For unique sneakers, Dripping Customs is your go-to.

Layering

Layering is the key to adapting your street style to changing weather conditions and adding depth and texture to your ensemble. Consider lightweight bomber jackets, trendy denim jackets, or versatile hoodies to layer over your bold tee. These layering options not only enhance your comfort but also introduce an extra layer of depth to your look.

Recommendation: Klotho has a variety of statement jackets for your streetstyle needs with bespoke options available. Dripping Customs also offers denim jackets worth spending on.

Bag it Up

Your choice of bag should strike a balance between functionality and style. Crossbody bags, fanny packs, and backpacks are popular options for street style lovers. Look for a bag that complements your overall look, marrying fashion with practicality, and choose one that accommodates your daily needs.

Recommendation: Offbeat is a go-to for fanny packs. For a more high-end feel, opt for Wrap.

Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize

Sunglasses are essential for street style, adding sophistication and mystery to your look while protecting your eyes. Aviators, wayfarers, oversized frames, and mirrored lenses are all options to consider. Choose sunglasses that harmonize with your facial structure and style preferences. Also, consider accessories like caps, gloves, and belts.

Recommendation: For sunglasses and belts, we recommend investing long-term. Go to Lifestyle for a branded pair of shades or Hub and Traditions for leather belts that will last. For caps, checkout Accouture Clothing. Treasurebox is another online website that has a huge stock of all types of accessories for women that won’t break the bank.

Streetstyle is an ever-evolving art form. Be sure to stay inspired by following fashion blogs, social media influencers, and streetstyle photographers. Keep an eye on emerging Pakistani streetstyle brands as they frequently introduce fresh and unique pieces to the market, keeping your style current and innovative. Above all, remember: streetstyle demands confidence. Embrace your unique style and wear your outfit with unwavering confidence. It is a realm of self-expression, so don't be afraid to stand out from the crowd and let your personality shine through your attire.

The post Your Ultimate Guide to Foolproof Streetstyle appeared first on HUM News English.

Islamabad recently played host to an extraordinary exhibition curated by Usman Ahmed, titled "Everything is Going Upside Down." Held at Sir Syed Memorial Hall, this showcase brought together a diverse collection of 21 artists, each contributing their unique voice to a powerful narrative.

Art, in its many forms, is a reflection and commentary on social nuances. In Pakistan, where we have witnessed a complex socio-political landscape marred by uncertainties and numerous challenges, curator Usman Ahmed's exhibition emerged as a platform for artistic expression.

"Everything is Going Upside Down: Group Show" provided a canvas for these artists to articulate the struggles inherent in navigating economic turbulence, political upheavals, and the pervasive shadow of social injustice.

Through an array of art pieces showcased at the exhibition, a profound message of resilience was also clear encapsulating the spirit and determination of Pakistan's youth, and their unwavering resolve to persevere.

Speaking about the exhibition, curator Usman Ahmed says, “Everything is Going Upside Down’ offers a diverse array of mediums and techniques, providing a unique perspective on a world turned upside down. This exhibition is a testament to the resilience of the Pakistani people, using art as a medium to bring attention to important issues while embracing the cathartic release of laughter”.

He further adds, “It is a call to action, reminding us to find humor in adversity and serving as a beacon of light in uncertain times…Resilience, the thread that ties us all together, echoes through the artworks and narratives on display”.

The following artists were part of the exhibition: Samiya Mahir Sheikh, Mohsin ur Rehman Baig, Misbah Qasim, Nosheen Sadiq, Marium Kamal, Kalsoom, Irfan Abdullah, Malika Batool, Hassan Tahir Latif, Quratulain Dar, Aimen Kathia, Sabir Abro, Hira Noor Baig, Electra Simon, Adeen Habib, Aleezah Qayyum, Zameer Hussain, Zainab Burhan, Fatima Kaleem, Sarah Ahmed, and Hamza Khan Sherwani.

Showcased pieces ranged from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 75,000 only. Although almost all pieces showcased were an absolute delight to experience, some deserve a notable mention:

Hamza Khan Sherwani’s “Orange Pants”

The painting set on a vivid orange backdrop showcases a world attuned to unfulfilled aspirations that is met with harsh realities of poverty, inflation, and basic needs.

Sherwani says, “Amidst this struggle, whimsical and playful elements are woven in, serving as a reminder that even in life’s most challenging moments, moments of levity can be found. This painting invites viewers to reflect on the universal struggle of balancing dreams and survival in a world that often feels like it’s turned upside down”.

Quratulain Dar’s “The American Dream”

The American Dream is a painting that shows a reflection of women’s mindset in the face of numerous challenges in Pakistan. A woman, donned in green and white, holds a foreign passport to her chest and dreams of escaping.

Dar says, “Mainly through the blend of fiction and reality, I explore the gender and power dynamics in the society. My work often contains socio-political commentary. This work too, questions the ideas of nationalism and patriotism in the face of adversity.”

Hassan Tahir Latif’s “…I can’t go back to yesterday, I was a different person then.”

This painting is a digital photographic print that looks at reality through a kaleidoscope. Through the painting you experience captivating dance of order and chaos working together with evident harmony.

Latif says, “This work, created through a kaleidoscope, represents our distorted reality, as well as the un­deniable inherent beauty of the world around us.”

Samiya Mahir Sheikh’s “Please, please me” and “Scottish Misery”

These paintings explore a world in flux, where ordinary is transformed into the extraordinary. There is an evident display of disruption and sense of life’s difficulty in the painting.

Shiekh says, “I invite viewers to question their own perceptions and embrace the uncertainty of life’s unpredictable nature. My art serves as a visual metaphor for the resilience and adaptability required to navigate the ever-shifting landscapes of existence, ultimately encour­aging a re-evaluation of what we consider normal and stable. I suggest - is it really upside down? I question - is it really upside down? I answer - is it really upside down?”

In the wake of this thought-provoking showcase, it becomes evident that art, when infused with purpose and conviction, becomes a formidable force—a beacon illuminating the path towards resilience, optimism, and the unwavering pursuit of a better future.

Shehzad Roy proposes liberal arts, music courses for Islamabad schools

The post Everything Is Going Upside Down: A Canvas of Pakistani Resilience appeared first on HUM News English.

Due to the current economic challenges, finding ways to enjoy your weekend without putting a strain on your wallet has become a top priority. Whether you're a resident of Islamabad or just passing through, this vibrant city offers a range of exciting activities that won't break the bank. With Rs5000 (or less), you can explore Islamabad in ways that are not only budget-friendly but also immensely enjoyable. From unleashing your creative side to experiencing the breathtaking natural beauty of the city, watching the latest movies, embarking on a cultural tour, and indulging in some fantastic outdoor adventures, Islamabad has it all. Let's dive into some options for what to do in Islamabad under PKR 5000.

HARFUN STUDIO

Harfun Studios, located in Bani Gala, is a great choice for those who want to experience creativity and fun on a budget. They offer clay and candle making classes priced at PKR 2500 and PKR 3000 per person every weekend. The three-hour class includes refreshment and is the perfect activity for decompressing. You can take the class solo or signup with a group. They also have a kids-friendly class priced at PKR 3000.

GO HIKING

The true beauty of Islamabad is its mountainous scenery and what better way to experience it than to go hiking. With several trails available, you can decide what suits your fancy. A popular choice amongst locals is trail number 5, a 6.4 KM long trail of moderate difficulty that can keep you engaged for a few good hours. It costs nothing to explore the trail. Hiking not only provides an opportunity to break free from indoor confinement but also contributes to your physical activity while you discover the scenic views Islamabad has to offer.

For your safety and security, it is recommended that you hike with a group of friends during daytime.

GO TO A CINEMA

Islamabad boasts numerous cinemas featuring impressive screens and diverse menus, ensuring an enjoyable experience that can easily occupy a few hours of your time. Cinemas such as Me Cinemas (Centaurus), The Arena, CineGold Plex, Jacaranda Family Club, and Islamabad Club consistently show all the latest releases. Moreover, including both the ticket and food, your budget won't exceed PKR 5000 per person, making it a wallet-friendly entertainment option.

PUT YOUR EXPLORER HAT ON

Explore Islamabad’s most coveted locations including the majestic Faisal Masjid, the serene Daman-e-Koh, the historic Saidpur Village, the cultural treasure Lok Virsa, and the Pakistan Monument. These attractions are either free or have negligible entry fees under PKR 150. Open every day of the week, except for Lok Virsa, which is closed on Mondays.

The tour around Islamabad will be a picturesque escape, well under PKR 5000 and educational along the way.

FARMERS MARKET

The Islamabad Farmers Market is a haven for health and fitness enthusiasts, a vibrant weekly event taking place every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Dino Park, located next to the old Zoo. Here, you'll discover the best produce the city has to offer. Delve into the array of food items, and you're sure to return with something you can't wait to cook with.

THE PaniQ ROOM

The PaniQ Room is a real-life escape room activity best enjoyed with a group of friends. Located in Bahria Phase VII, the PaniQ Room boasts three games you can play, i.e., the Red Wire, Insane Asylum, and Jail Break, that will test your wit and teamwork skills. Ranging from between PKR 2500 to PKR 3700 per person. The PaniQ Room is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

PAINTBALL, MINIGOLF - LAKE VIEW

Situated within the picturesque Lake View Park, Battlefield emerges as the perfect destination for affordable and enjoyable outings with your friends. It boasts a diverse range of activities, with Mini Golf, Paintball, and Archery being the most popular choices among visitors.

Operating from Monday to Sunday, the park welcomes guests from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM and offers a range of pricing options. Paintball adventures are available for an economical PKR 500 to a more premium PKR 2000 per person. Likewise, Archery sessions are accessible for less than Rs1000, Mini Golf rounds for up to Rs1000 per person. So, you can tailor your visit to Battlefield to suit both your preferences and your wallet.

Read: A love affair with Nagar Valley - A journey unfinished

The post What to do in Islamabad under PKR 5000? appeared first on HUM News English.

Pakistani drama serials have raised the bar this year with quality content that is not just relatable but also thought-provoking and culturally resonant. The television screen this September is a treasure trove of unmissable storylines that feature stunning landscapes, offer humour, challenges norms, and give way to unexpected relationships.

Without further ado, here are the top television drama serials on air to watch this month and why each one of them deserves a prime spot on your watch list:

1. Jhok Sarkar

Airs every Tuesday at 8:00 PM on HUM TV

For the audience exhausted with drama serials featuring run-of-the-mill stories, Jhok Sarkar is one to watch. The drama centres around Arsalan, played by Farhaan Saeed. Arsalan is a dedicated by-the-book police officer in the lawless land of Jhok Siyaal. The story truly kicks off when Arsalan receives a tip about illegal border crossing and ends up shooting a man named Jeevan, who tries to escape. Jeevan's death shocks everyone, including Sassi (played by Hiba Bukhari) and her father, Meeral (played by Usman Javed), and Jahan Dad (played by Malik Raza). Meeral and Peeral (played by Asif Raza Mir) use Jeevan's death to create problems for Arsalan and initiate an inquiry against him, despite Arsalan's guilt and remorse.

Pakistani actor Aly Khan to shine in Hotstar’s ‘The Trial’ opposite Kajol

This is a saga of corruption, family, and love. The gripping and well-written script paired with effective direction make Jhok Sarkar a must-watch.

2. Yunhi

Airs on HUM TV every Sunday at 8:00 PM

Yunhi is the mouthpiece for the modern-day Pakistani woman. The drama showcases exceptional chemistry between Kaneez Fatima aka Kim, played by Maya Ali, and Dawood, played by Bilal Ashraf. The two have been brought together in an arranged marriage by their elders, as is the norm in Pakistani culture. However, Kim, an American-born and raised, challenges the conservative mindset of her new family.

Watch this drama not only for the chemistry between the two characters but for the importance of challenging traditions and beliefs that may no longer be relevant in today’s global world. Bonus points to Yunhi for being an aspiration to many women who struggle with similar issues but are unable to voice them.

3. Fairy Tale 2

Airs every Saturday at 8:00 PM on HUM TV

In a television screen chock-full of weighty topics, Fairy Tale 2 offers the audience a true breath of fresh air. The urban drama navigates modern-day families and their dynamics, perfectly resonating with the average Pakistani.

What works immensely for Fairy Tale 2 is the simple dialogue coupled with believable scenarios. The cherry on top is the nuanced yet localized comedy style, exceptional storytelling, and the dynamic chemistry between Farjad (played by Hamza Sohail) and Umeed Pasha (played by Sehar Khan).

The debut season of Fairy Tale originally premiered during Ramzan and garnered tremendous success, which prompted Momina Duraid Productions to greenlight a second season.

4. Neem

Airs every Monday at 8:00 PM on HUM TV

Set in the beautiful backdrop of Kashmir, Neem is a drama that offers a blend of stunning landscapes and an inspiring plotline that delves deep into pressing social issues, with outstanding performances that leave a lasting impact on the audience.

Neem kicks off with Mawra Hocane’s portrayal of Zimmal, a dynamic character who advocates for enhancing literacy in her community. Zimmal is an intellectual girl with big dreams for her small village. We see incredible performances by Ameer Gillani as Ashaad, Arsalan Naseer as Shazil, and Syed Jibran as Karamat Khan.

Occasionally, the drama tends to veer into moments that may feel preachy and may not always align with real-world practicality. Nevertheless, it paints an aspirational picture of an ideal scenario. Despite these minor quirks, Neem shines bright among the rest of its competitors, offering content for a social cause.

5. Mohabbat Gumshuda Meri

Airs every Friday at 8:00 PM on HUM TV

Mohabbat Gumshuda Meri is an absolute treat for the younger audience. The story revolves around the intertwined lives of two best friends and neighbours, Zobia, played by Dananeer, and Saim, played by Khushal Khan, who are in their twenties. Zobia is the youngest in her family and navigates familial restrictions to live life on her own terms. Meanwhile, Saim is a talented young man with big dreams of pursuing music as a career. The drama explores themes of teenage friendships, college romances, misunderstandings, and the innocence of teenage relationships. We experience the camaraderie of friendship and family through this tale. It also portrays the challenges faced by young people in a traditional society, where strict family norms and gender roles are incorrigible.

The drama has received the love of the audiences for its epic portrayal of everyday life and relationships.

Read: PEMRA bans drama 'Hadsa' revolving around motorway rape incident

The post Pakistani drama serials to binge on in September appeared first on HUM News English.