Samantha Wood

I am British-Cypriot and wear a number of hats - a restaurant reviewer, food writer, PR practitioner and event organiser with 25 years of experience in the United Kingdom and the Middle East. I set up my own business in Dubai eight years ago – an impartial restaurant review website, FooDiva (www.foodiva.net) that has collected ten awards. I also organise mystery #DineAroundDubai and #ThreeChefsDinner experiences. I have featured prolifically in local and international media including guest segments on CNN and monthly spots on local radio. Furthermore, I take on freelance writing commissions, most recently as the UAE contributor for the global Truth, Love & Clean Cutlery restaurant guide. I am a regular speaker and industry awards judge on my favourite subjects - food, restaurants and social media.

Special subjects

Food, restaurants, drinks, wine, chefs, culinary travel

Languages spoken

English, Greek, French

Regular work

My own restaurant review and food website www.foodiva.net, freelance commissions for local and international publications, as well as a regular spot on a local radio station. Some examples here: https://www.clippings.me/foodiva Truth, Love & Clean Cutlery book: https://truthloveandcleancutlery.com/our-editors/samantha-wood Conde Nast Traveller Middle East: https://www.cntravellerme.com/destination-dining/the-5-most-authentic-greek-restaurants-in-dubai Business Traveller UK: http://www.foodiva.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/BTUK-Oct-2017-Abu-Dhabi.pdf

Advisory boards / Awards

Power 50 by Caterer Middle East 2017/ 2018 Top 100 Dubai websites to follow – number one ranking food website 2017 Best Food Blogger in the BBC Good Food Awards 2016 Ahlan Hot 100 influencer 2015 and 2016 ProChef ME’s Food Ambassador 2014 Gold in the Expat Blog Awards UAE 2012 and 2013 Expat Star Awards 2013 Second Best Blog in Dubai by Ahlan magazine 2011

Commercial interests

My commercial interests are in publishing and writing.

Samantha Wood