ISLAMABAD, Dec 9: Steeped in modernity and enriched by hi- tech designs and integration of landscape, people and architecture, the Dawn All About Lifestyles Expo 2006 opened at the Convention Centre on Saturday amidst a medley of attractions.

The expo is one of the leading shopping-cum-entertainment extravaganzas in the capital. In elaborate showcases for technological and cultural developments as well as manufactured products, it brought buyers and sellers together in a highly charged atmosphere.

The slightly overcast conditions in the morning provided wonderful filtered light to complement the art display in the Gallery section outside. And by afternoon, the gentle warmth and the grey sky created the perfect atmosphere for a good outdoor lunch. The expo had enlisted some of the best talents with an attractive and organised display of their works. The extensive art gallery was this year’s opportunity to see much delightful and inspirational original works in water colours, oil, sketches and creative images on canvas besides stone works and other artistic highlights. This environment added to the ambiance as visitors strolled through stalls in the exhibition lawns, taking advantage of discounts and other exclusive offerings. Many received gifts from the exhibitors promoting their products.

“We are offering free DSL installation with 1GB extra space besides other discounted packages,” said a sales representative at the Cyber Extreme stall.

Nikon, Olympus, Ravi Motorcycles, K&N foods, Dalda and Nurpur were among many stall-holders under the tented exhibition area that also housed stalls of wooden and interior decorations and bathroom fittings.

Erected as an architectural symbol, the Convention Centre enclosed stalls of leading brand names like Interwood, Berloni, Gown House (offering sports and travel items), Comsats etc. From eye catching furniture designs for homes and offices to hi-tech electronics such cameras and laptops, the two floors were taken up by Gunj Glass, Scotch Brite, Canon Home Appliances besides many more.

“It’s about cross fertilisation of ideas and an opportunity to present your propositions to the consumers,” said Hanif, a sales representative, adding that the expo had an important social and economic impact on the country.

The expo offered a riot of activities for the young ones. Children had a blast, screaming and bouncing on jumping castles, while many desperately waited for the hot air balloon to become operational.

Providing a relaxing atmosphere, comfortable seating and a variety of food items completed the expo experience. People pampered their taste buds with delicious desi food like Sag Roti with Makhan Achar, Chicken Tikka, Dacca fish, Mama’s ice cream, Chirray and Batteray. On the other hand, fast food outlets sold burgers, roll Parathas and drinks.