Bahrain Confidential Issue 205 (January 2020) - Captivating 48th National Day Celebrations

Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

205 The Best in Bahrain

BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20

Issue

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Nicholas C. Cooksey Editorial

Angela Acosta Editorial Contributors

Andrea Lister Dr. Lana Peters Kate Jelley Melissa Nazareth SALES & Business Development

Charlie Cooksey Design

Dhanraj S Photography

Angelo Jose A Admin & Finance

Nikesh Pola Distribution

Mohammed Yousif Aramex Al Ayam For Advertising Opportunities Call

Charlie Cooksey

First of all...

Bahrain Confidential’s January Issue is packed with features to help you prepare… not only for the New Year’s party, but also for the year ahead.

Whether you’re out to fulfill your fitness resolutions or stay in to refurbish your home, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guides! On the other note, we’ve covered the gastronomic adventures you can indulge in this festive season.

Have a great start to 2020 and cheers to the good times ahead!

M. +973 3652 0004 charlie@gulf-insider.com Published by:

Best wishes from the Bahrain Confidential Team!

A Division of C.G. Arabia SPC.

P.O. Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Tel. +973 1782 2388, Fax. +973 1772 1722 Email: info@ArabianMagazines.com Website: www.ArabianMagazines.com Ministry of Information approval no.

ISDN 99901-01-17-5 © Copyright 2008, C.G. Arabia SPC. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Printed at Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej, Bahrain.

The Best in Bahrain Bahrain-Confidential.com Online edition at ArabianMagazines.com

Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

205 The Best in Bahrain

Bahrain Confidential @BahrainConfidential @ConfidentialBah Bahrain Confidential TV

Visit: Bahrain-Confidential.com

Issue

Established since 2001, Bahrain Confidential is a Bahrainbased monthly publication available both in print and online editions. It is the definitive guide to high-end Arabian luxury and lifestyle. It covers the best in lifestyle, luxury, fashion and dining, as well as local events, art, society, fashion, beauty and travel.

The monthly print edition of Bahrain Confidential is distributed to Bahrain’s highest spending consumers and decision makers.

BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20 Complimentary Copy

Front Cover Credits: Artwork by Tejbir Singh @tejbirart

Online edition at Bahrain-Confidential.com

January 2020 Issue 205

46

22 Beautiful Home Guide

32

68

Captivating 48th National Day Celebrations

Features & Interviews

22

Beautiful Home Guide

32

Health & Wellness Guide

44

Dadabhai Travel’s Portuguese Escape

46

Captivating 48th National Day Celebrations

52

A Historic Achievement: Gulf Cup 2019

54

Interview with Chef Tala Bashmi of Fusions

56

Interview with Doyoureallylikeit? Band

58

Interview with Cathay Pacific’s Area Manager for Middle East

Fashion

18

Fashion Trends

20

Lift Your Beauty with Chanel

Going Out

60

Bahrain’s Best Tacos

64

The Foodie Edit

68

Tastefully Made: My Café Review

70

Day Out Itinerary at Sofitel

77

Unique Arabia II at Gallery 21

81

Fabulous Foodie Deals at K Hotel

82

New Year at Elite

Fridays Fridaysjust justgot gotmeatier! meatier!

Introducing Introducingthe theallallnew newButcher’s Butcher’sBoard BoardFriday FridayBrunch Brunchfeaturing featuringsucculent succulent cuts cutsofofbeef, beef,lamb lamband andchicken, chicken,allallcooked cookedtotoyour yourpreference. preference.

Enjoy Enjoythis thisspecial specialplus plusour ourregular regularFriday Fridayspread spreadofofsalads, salads,sushi, sushi,Asian, Asian,Arabic Arabic and andEuropean Europeandishes dishesforforonly onlyBD BD22 22net netincluding includingunlimited unlimitedjuices juicesand andsoft soft drinks drinksororBD BD3333net netincluding includingunlimited unlimitedselected selectedbeverages. beverages.

For Forreservations reservationsorormore moreinformation, information,please pleasecall call+973 +9731311 13119999 9999oror email emailfb.downtown@rotana.com fb.downtown@rotana.com P.O. P.O. Box: Box: 18345, 18345, Manama, Manama, Kingdom Kingdom of of Bahrain, Bahrain, T: +973 T: +973 13111311 9999, 9999, F: +973 F: +973 13111311 9997, 9997, downtown.hotel@rotana.com downtown.hotel@rotana.com

Social Media

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VISIT US IN MANAMA PHOENICIA DECOR PALACE PALMS BLDG, TEL: 00973-17564444 / NATUZZI.COM

Events

Best in Dubai

What's On - What's New

Night Lights with Ellie Goulding Sukhishvili Georgian National Ballet Where: Dubai Opera When: 3-4th January The Sukhishvili Georgian National Ballet is one of the most famous dance ensembles in the world, enjoying international acclaim since its foundation in 1944 by dance legends Iliko Sukhishvili and Nino Ramishvili.

For more information: dubaiopera.com

Where: Coca-cola Arena When: 10th January English singer-songwriter Ellie Goulding will headline a gig at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena in 2020. The Grammy-nominated artist signed her first record deal in 2009 and since then has been selling out arenas and stadiums across the globe. Some of her biggest hits include ‘Lights’, ‘Explosions’ and ‘Anything Could Happen’.

For more information: dubai.platinumlist.net

December Avenue & Silent Sanctuary Live

Le Petit Prince at Dubai Opera

Where: Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium When: 10th January

Where: Dubai Opera When: 23-25th January

December Avenue and Silent Sanctuary are coming to Dubai in 2020. The 'Huling Sandali' and 'Dahilan' acts will be playing a one-night concert at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in Dubai, UAE on January 10, 2020 (Friday). They will be sharing the stage with Third Party and Flight Scientist.

An extraordinary journey through the heart of dance and new circus, audiences will be completely immersed the Little Prince’s cosmic and fantastic world with stunning sets, costumes and video mapping technology.

For more information: dubai.platinumlist.net For more information: dubaiopera.com

10 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Events

Culture The

What’s on Bahrain

Your ultimate guide to the cultural events and activities in Bahrain this month.

Trip 01-30 January Venue: Bahrain National Museum Dive into the Jurassic Dive into the Jurassic brings together immersive CGI films with original fossils and replica casts from the Natural History Museum’s unique marine fossil collections to bring the ancient seas to life. The exhibition takes visitors on a journey beneath the waves to meet the amazing creatures that inhabited the oceans 200 million years ago at a time when dinosaurs ruled the land.

01-30 January Venue: Bahrain National Museum Beyond Silence by Rashid Diab – A Retrospective Sudanese artist, Dr. Rashid Diab, carries the obsession of an artist and the questions of a curious mind, both of which are only satisfied by color, form and shadow. His secrets and his identity rely in colors, and he is very realistic as far as he is abstract and emotional and flowing like the river Nile, which is his main inspiration.

02-30 January Venue: Bahrain Fort (Qal’at Al Bahrain) Sound & Light Show Venue: Bahrain Fort (Qal’at Al Bahrain) An interactive and moving audio visual experience which takes the audience through a guided journey from the present into the past, and back. Every Tuesday, Thursday & Friday.

12 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Events

15-30 January Venue: Bahrain National Museum & Bahrain National Theatre The 46th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition The 46th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition, the first, biggest and longest-running platform for Bahraini artists to showcase and exhibit the outcome of their creative minds. Since its inception in 1972, the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition has now evolved into an important yearly gathering of artists, all eager to display their talents and works.

26-30 January Venue: Bahrain National Museum Food is Culture 5 Food is Culture is a creative experimental project that aims to bridge together the mediums of art and food. Running in parallel with the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition, this experiment sheds light on creative processes that take place when two individuals (from different creative disciplines) collaborate.

14 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Crowne Plaza hosted their annual appreciation party

Movies

of the Month AJ and the Queen

Check out the latest movies and TV series you wouldn’t want to miss!

Anne with an E

The Grudge

Underwater

Dolittle

The Gentlemen

A house is cursed by a vengeful ghost that dooms those who enter it with a violent death.

Mysterious creatures terrorize crew members aboard a research station located seven miles below the surface of the ocean.

Originally titled The Voyage of Doctor Dolittle, Downey's Dolittle is a remake of the 1967 classic starring Rex Harrison, Doctor Dolittle.

A British drug lord tries to sell off his highly profitable empire to a dynasty of Oklahoma billionaires.

Ragnarok

Ares

What’s new on Netflix?

AJ and the Queen (Season 1) This comedy series is headlined by RuPaul who is a well-known drag queen. The series follows Ruby Red who is traveling across America in the 1990s with an orphan child.

Anne with an E (Season 3) In season 3 of Anne with an E, we see Anne hit her sixteenth birthday which inspires her to look back at her past which includes information that she wasn’t anticipating.

Ares (Season 1) Ares is the first full Netflix Original production from the Netherlands. It’s a supernatural horror/drama series that sees some top actors from the region appear.

Ragnarok (Season 1) A new Norwegian coming-of-age supernatural drama.

16 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

hi BC' on s Gu id e Fa s

Chloé

F

BD157

ashion

Carlina Sunglasses

Chloé revisits its “Carlina” sunglasses with a new and delicate jewel-inspired embellishment.

The style’s signature concentric circles are adorned with a pearl-like jewel on the left side, lending a sophisticated and feminine allure to the iconic, oversized round frame.

The light-catching, gradient or pearlescent lenses, are further illuminated with yellow or rose gold metallic finishes and opaline- nuanced acetate temple tips.

Available at www.chloe.com

Trends

Fendi Timepieces

Fendi IShine Watch Collection

The iconic Fendi IShine Watch Collection bridges the Roman Maison’s DNA and the Swiss watchmaking expertise by bringing to the forefront its unique patented rotating gemstone mechanism with three gemstone configurations to be revealed on the dial. The Collection is enriched by a version featuring a case and a dial enhanced with Lapis Lazuli genuine stone.

Available at Moda Mall

18 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Baume & Mercier

Classima Lady Line

The Classima Lady line is characterized by elegant simplicity. Each model offers the classic hour and minute functions as well as the date, discreetly nestled in an aperture at 3 o'clock on the dial. New faces, additional sizes, and the choice between a quartz or selfwinding mechanical movement: this line is designed to offer every woman the watch that best fits her.

Available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre Approx. BD 1,570

Fashion

BD75

Bag BD260

KENZO

Lacoste

Holiday Capsule

Undoubtedly considered as the it-bag for the winter season, the brand’s legacy lives on in the new Croco Crew collection. Surfing on the logomania trend, particularly acclaimed by the Z generation, LACOSTE presents three different bag shapes and small leather goods in pop colours, with an assumed vintage logo.

For the KENZO holiday 2019/20 collection, KENZO is inspired by the night skies, the mystery and the romance of the far far away. The collection takes cues from key items from the Fall Winter 2019 collection and revs them up ready for the party season by creating comprehensive evening silhouettes for everyone searching for the ideal look for winter gettogethers.

Available soon at City Centre Bahrain

Available at City Centre Bahrain

Messika Get inspired this holiday season with the stunning range of novelties and high jewellery from the diamond powerhouse. Be it a layered stack of Messika’s bold Move Romane & Noa bracelets, tempting Desert Bloom high jewelry earrings or a playful pair of Lucky Move Arrow earrings, accessorizing with gold and pavé diamonds is the easiest way to elevate any look.

Available at Moda Mall Prices available upon request

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 19

Feature

Lift Your

Beauty Mademoiselle Chanel allows women to retake control of their beauty with its LE LIFT line.

T

he new generation of LE LIFT skincare harmonizes beautifully with this confident and mastered way of approaching life and the passing time. It invites women to retake control of their beauty, without having to choose between naturalness, performance and sensoriality.

The power of transformation lies at the heart of the LE LIFT line. The new LE LIFT skincare products feature an active ingredient extracted from a plant grown in France: alfalfa. This plant owes its nutritional richness to a highly developed root system able to draw nourishing elements from the soil to nourish its every cell. A common element in healthy diets, alfalfa is usually ingested in the form of sprouts. Alfalfa botanical concentrate, the quintessence of the plant, is extracted from its seeds using green chemistry.

LE LIFT creams come in three soft and smoothing textures, tailor-made by CHANEL Research formulators. The dosage of each ingredient was precisely developed to offer three distinct sensory effects, three sensations that adjust to the skin’s needs and make it firmer, smoother and more luminous with a refined skin texture. n

20 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

A new luxurious lifestyle experience comes to Bahrain! Opening in the first quarter of 2020 and located in the luxurious Jumeirah Royal Saray Hotel, Bab Al Saray will bring to the Kingdom 10 high-end retail stores and 5 new fine-dining concepts for a unique and exciting way of life!

For more information please call 16666661 or 33650111

Homestyle

Bahrain Confidential’s

Beautiful Home Guide

"Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style." - Billy Baldwin

22 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Homestyle

A

house is much more than a mere shelter, it should tell the story of who you are and what you love while also making the best possible use of space. Bahrain Confidential will guide you through the most important trend stories in home interior design for 2019/2020.

To create this guide, we’ve carefully curated the trends and analyzed the forecasts from the major interior design sources. Read on and transform your residential space with these unique insights into crucial styles and elements.

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 23

Homestyle The Palette Jotun’s Colour Collection Every wall has an inspiring story to tell. A story that can be brought to life with the perfect colour. Life moves fast, and our identities are constantly shifting and evolving. This year’s collection inspires you to choose colours and combinations that reflect and embrace who you are - your own personal identity.

Calm - A palette of slowness and simplicity that you can peacefully return to as life grows faster and busier.

Refined - A palette inspired by vintage treasures and new design pieces that you love to store and showcase.

Raw - A palette that reconnects you to the warm colours of soil and sand, reminiscent of a relaxed, rural atmosphere.

Jotun Bahrain, +973 1772 9311 www.jotun.com/me

Living Room Nothing is like crafting a well-designed living room that is suitable for enjoying family time and entertaining loved ones. The living room is a space that sets the tone for the rest of your home décor. At the same time, it it one of the best places to showcase your aesthetic and put your favourite trends to the test.

Indivi Sofa by BoConcept Indivi is BoConcept’s first and longest-running sofa, and it has been consistently among the brand’s top-two-selling sofas since launch. It also marks the start of a long partnership, which has produced a host of Nørgaard-penned designs, including the hugely popular Osaka and Carlton sofas, the innovative footstool-bed, XTRA; and the midcentury-esque, Lucca recliner armchair.

BoConcept Bahrain, +973 1756 4319 www.boconcept.com/ar-bh

New York Loft by Home Centre Inspired by the Big Apple, the modern, edgy and sophisticated New York Loft range offers all the stunning aesthetics of a contemporary urban loft. You can entertain your guests in an Instagrammable living room that beautifully combines sleek art, timeless rugs and vibrant cushions that add a splash of colour. The range includes everything you might need for a home: 2-seater and 3-seater sofa, coffee table, 4-seater dining table, a king size bed, night stands, dresser and mirror.

Home Centre, +973 1717 2355 www.homecentre.com/bh

24 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Homestyle Bellini Clean-lined and dark-hued, this minimalist Bellini bed is ideal for a bedroom that not only wants exceptional comfort but extra storage space too. Built to be lifted, this stylish bed offers extra storage underneath the mattress area, ideal for packing away extra linen.

Bedroom Bedroom need a facelift but stuck for good ideas?

Find your style and create your dream bedroom scheme with these trendy products.

Azara Season’s Latest from Marina Home Interiors

Made of 100% solid Moso bamboo, this beauty is contemporary with a retro twist thanks to its natural-exotic tiger accent in honey gold. We also adore its subtle nods to Japanese style in the slanted legs and subtly curved headboard.

Birds of Paradise Rickson This is one sophisticated four-door sideboard. The Rickson’s doors feature warm ebony and brass hues in retro patterning, and its feet are trimmed with solid brass fillets in bronze and burnished brass. Pair this beauty with other metallics or warm tones.

Pendant lamps are an inexpensive and quick way to inject both colour and character into your home. This retro pendant light, showcasing a birds of paradise print on a black background, is ideal for interiors with a tropical vibe.

Chill II With the right styling, this chill ii side table's interesting mosaictexture surface and sleek frame legs will work well in a range of interior styles. This side table is both sturdy and stylish, showcasing matte black metal legs and wormwood, pinewood and mahogany strips on its surface.

Marina Home Interiors, +973 1758 2752 www.marinahomeinteriors.com

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 25

Homestyle Dining Room Match your style and create a chic dining room design with these inspirational pieces.

Stylish Picks from Natuzzi Italia Phantom The elegant Phantom table, designed

by Mauro Lipparini, is characterised by a light, floating design: the majesty of the wood and the lightness of the glass base make the design of this table unique and highly distinctive.

"There are two things that make a room timeless: a sense of history and a piece of the future." - Charlotte Moss Harlem Harlem is an elegant, contemporary dining table of great visual impact, featuring details that set off the quality of materials and workmanship. Its trapezoidal frame gives it a stylish look in line with the latest trends.

Orlo These plates are created by expert hands that shape the clay according to antique modelling techniques handed down over time.

Sovrana Simple and versatile with regal elegance.

Phoenicia DĂŠcor +973 1756 4444

26 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

NOW EVERY NIGHT IS PLAY NIGHT PLAY Restaurant

PLAY Lounge

Special Sunday: Enjoy a 3 course meal for BD20 Net Monday Madness: Get 33% off your entire bill Sushilicious: All you can eat Sushi for only for BD14 Net, every Tuesday PLAY 2 Network: Share your business card and get 25% off your bill, every Wednesday

Mashup Saturdays: Ladies enjoy free Canapes & Drinks every Saturday Arabesque Night: An evening with Arabic music and 20% off Hookah, every Tuesday Pink Wednesdays: Ladies enjoy 3 complimentary drinks every Wednesday

FOR RESERVATIONS / INQUIRES: 1710 0345 JUMEIRAH ROYAL SARAY BAHRAIN

Influencers

Walk Into the New Year “New Year, New You” it’s a cliché, right? Why do we tend to associate the New Year with the only time to make changes in our life, set new year resolutions and do the things we have been putting on the backburner for years? I suppose the New Year symbolises “new beginnings”.

The most common new year resolution happens to be joining a gym, getting fit, and burning off the holiday weight accumulated over the previous December. As a physiotherapist, I see patients who suffer from pain that are unable to move or exercise. Living in Bahrain, we have such limited opportunities to walk or exercise outdoors, so a pain patient does not have much opportunities if they feel unable to join a gym.

Let’s take this New Year as a chance to bust common pain myths. For starters, is it true that walking and exercise can make your back pain worse? No, it’s a myth! Many studies actually advocate gentle exercise such as walking, stretching or Yoga to help manage lower back pain, stiff necks and shoulders.

Another common one is, strength training causes pain.

Strength training is expected to cause ‘delayed onset of muscle soreness’ abbreviated to DOMS post the exercise. Therefore, many pain suffers worry that even gentle exercises will bring on DOMS, when in fact, your body is just adjusting to a new exercise it has not done in a while.

If you suffer with joint, skeletal or muscular pain and wish to get active this year, start by getting the clearance from your doctor or a physiotherapist that walking is safe for you. Please note, that the purpose of a medial assessment is not to scare you or limit your activity, but to rule out whether there are any sinister pathologies that are causing you pain and need to be dealt with medically first.

Second of all, get appropriate footwear and comfortable clothing to exercise in. Walk as an exercise, not as a chore!

Find a mall or a walking track to walk around. Increase your exercise by minutes or even seconds until your body adjusts.

Walking will feed your muscles, joints, skeletal system and your brain. And it will help you relax! My dear readers, walk into 2020! n

ak Mohamed M

i

Dr

Da

na

Dr Dana Mohamed Maki is a physiotherapist with a Clinical Specialism in Spinal & Pelvic Rehab, and a Researcher and Senior Lecturer at Brunel University London.

28 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Four Seasons Hotel hosted a thanksgiving feast at Azure Pool & Lounge

welcome home

1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroom hotel suites

for family, business & pleasure +973 16030001

gulfsuiteshotel

GULF SUITES HOTEL, AMWAJ www.gulfsuiteshotel.com

Influencers

3 Reasons to Have an Ideal Mentor Feeling completely stuck in a rut lately? As if you are pressing the REPLAY button experiencing the same results in your personal and professional life?

Several years ago, I made the conscious choice to become a mastermind of my own life. At first it was out of my pure drive to have better material things. Feeling as though this was the answer to me becoming a happier person.

Then my hunger to feel better and do better became stronger.

I didn’t just want to develop my transactional skills I wanted to heal old things which always came up in situations like a road block. Once you do let go clearing the old which doesn’t serve you, space is created and you fill in with what does! Some of this comes from your choices while the rest can come from experiences you attract to your life. This is a big part of your path to your highest self and the ideal mentor(s) will support you to elevate you to your better self.

Many do not feel comfortable asking for support from a stranger or someone they know. This discomfort is definitely more of an excuse to remain in discomfort and something to get over really quick!

Finding and selecting an ideal mentor depends on your needs, their life expertise, ethics-values, trust and time schedule. An Ideal mentor is someone who has had a real IMPACT with their own break throughs in life and others. They are the ideal role model.

Three reasons to have an Ideal Mentor 1. The right support will move you ahead years in your life via achieving your own breakthrough!

2. Greater self-discipline, become more accountable to yourself with new behaviors which impact your life.

3. Mentors are better than friends. Stop putting pressure on yourself and your friends.

Are you ready to elevate out of that rut receiving the right guidance and advisory? Please contact me via luna@ mastermindsalign.com to arrange a complimentary discovery call which will trigger your own path towards a breakthrough in your personal or professional life. n

Lun li a Hagea

Luna is a Transformation Specialist certified in Adult Learning and Development/ Speaker/Curriculum Designer.

20 years global experience working with individuals and organizations Email: luna@mastermindsalign.com Mobile: +973 3203 0129

30 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Moda Mall celebrated National Day featuring a showcase of cultural activities and more

UNIQUE ARABIA II An evening of glamour and sophistication showcasing the region’s fashion talent, the second edition of Unique Arabia takes place in Gallery 21, 30th January 2020. The evening will feature a myriad of designers from the region that will embody beauty, fashion, and glamour through their intricate and chic designs, showcased by Matty B Models. Join us for an evening that will inspire you to glamourise your wardrobe in the New Year!

GET IN TOUCH Tel: +973 17 711 600 Instagram: @gallery21bh gallery21bahrain.com

Health

New Year, New You Bahrain Confidential’s

& Guide

B

eing healthy and fit is not a fad or a trend, it is a lifestyle. Holistic wellness is not just about the absence of disease and illnesses; it means living a healthy lifestyle that includes looking at the body as an entire system and addressing its needs as a whole.

Health is arguably the cornerstone of a balanced life – without it, you will not be able to live your full potential in any area.

In this guide, we share informative tips and useful pieces of advice for you to achieve a happier, healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle in 2020.

Bahrain Confidential’s Health and Wellnesss Guide that will help you meet your personal goals and improve the quality of your life.

32 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Health

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 33

Health Get moving!

InterContinental Regency Health Club

Being active has numerous health benefits, both physically and mentally. There are many types of physical activities including swimming, running, jogging, walking and dancing! If you’re looking for something more adventurous, we recommend visiting these!

Enjoy a selection of fitness packages for men and women. Offering a wide range of fitness classes, swimming lessons and personal training whether you have a moment, an hour, or a day to dedicate, there’s everything from short sessions to longer exercises. With dedicated attendants who can tailor your experience to suit your needs; the Health Club is the perfect place to unwind. +973 1720 8393

Fitness & Relaxation Club One Fitness Club One Fitness Centre is not only a gym. It’s a fitness centre that has everything you need to get in shape, from state-of-the art gym equipment and spa to a healthy café and supplements, they’ve got you covered. @club1_fitness +973 7732 3232 REPS Fitness Studios REPS Fitness Studios are Bahrain's largest exercise fitness studio. The studios are just over 6,200 square feet and they offer services from small group training to your favorite Les Mills Group Exercise Formulas, and more!

Cobra Fitness Cobra Fitness is about so much more than just making your body look good – it’s about transforming yourself, inside and out. By harnessing the discipline, focus and professionalism of martial arts you won’t just gain physical strength, you’ll feel stronger and more centred mentally, too. The gym offers Muay Thai, Boxing, BJJ, MMA and Strength Training. @cobrafitnessbahrain

34 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

+973 3312 3884

+973 7737 7348

Health Pamper Yourself Review Your Year Take a look at what your diet and health have been like for the past 12 months…

• How does your weight compare with a year ago?

• Do you feel healthy and have a lot of energy or are you tired all time?

• Do you eat at home most of the time or dine our frequently?

• How physically active are you?

• How did you practice self-care?

• How much alcohol do you drink each week?

Heavenly Spa Signature Massage

Signature Jewels of the Sea Massage

Heavenly Spa at The Westin City Centre Bahrain A heated compress invites back muscles to relax before a Swedish massage leaves you feeling physically rested and mentally uplifted.

Rimal Spa at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Experience the Signature Jewels of the Sea Massage at Rimal Spa! The heat from the shells gently eases away muscle tension, improving circulation and a sense of balance to the entire body and mind with complimentary steam room to release away all stress.

+973 1717 1122

+973 1746 0051

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 35

Health

Prept Bahrain Prept Bahrain is a performance meal provider designed by athletes. They offer proper macro based meals, that is catered to high performance individuals and athletes at a reasonable price. @preptbh

Food & Diet If healthy eating tops your resolution list for 2020, you're not alone. Many of us stumble into a new year, laden with Christmas cheer and the desire to make up for the excesses of the festive season.

Meals on Wheels Whether you can’t cook, won’t cook, or don’t trust yourself to prepare genuinely healthy meals, having a professional do it for you is the next best thing to having a personal nutritionist and chef.

36 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Fit Kitchen Fit Kitchen is a healthy restaurant/ meal prep kitchen. They serve a variety of delicious macro counted meals. They also provide meal plan packages like weight loss, muscle gain, vegan, etc. All meal plan packages are delivered to your door to help you reach your nutritional goals in the fastest and most convenient way. @fitkitchenbh

call our experts on

+973 77304050 +973 66706010 Prept BH

PreptBh

Health The Juice Boost Increasing the fruits and vegetables in your diet can help you break unhealthy habits and improve your diet. Here are some of our favourite recipes!

For Energy Citrus Beet Juice Ingredients: • 3 red beets quartered • 3 cups fresh spinach • 2 red apples quartered • 2 blood oranges peeled • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger root • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice • 1-2 tablespoons honey depending on your taste (use maple syrup if vegan)

For Detox Green Juice Ingredients: • 2 cups packed baby spinach leaves • Handful parsley leaves and stems • 1 medium green apple, rinsed with core removed • 1 large seedless (hothouse or English) cucumber, rinsed • 1-inch length piece fresh ginger, scrubbed clean • 1 medium lemon

For Skin Glowing Skin Juice

For Weight Loss Carrot Juice Ingredients: • 6 carrots, peeled • 2 green apples, skin removed • ½ inch ginger, peeled • 1/3 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed • 2 celery sticks (optional

38 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Ingredients: • 1 beetroot • 2 oranges • 2 carrots • 2 red apples • 1 cucumber • 1 stick of celery

Start 2020 fighting with our New Years offers

Special Offer

BJJ l MUAY THAI l BOXING l KIDS l FITNESS l PERSONAL TRAINING

From BD1 A Day* Call: +973 3312 3884

Hala Plaza, Zinj @Cobrafitnessbahrain * Terms and Conditions apply

* Excludes VAT

Health

HV Holistic Health -

New Year, New You?

Determined to make 2020 your health & fitness year? HV Holistic tells you how to succeed.

T

he New Year is upon us, and after the usual festive celebrations and overindulgences of the end of 2019, January is the ideal time to decide how you want the next 365 days to look for you. Albert Einstein allegedly once said, “the definition of madness is doing the same thing over and over, and expecting different results”, and when deciding on your fitness aspirations for the year, perhaps this is worth bearing in mind. At the start of 2019, did you plan to lose a lot of weight, or undertake a marathon, only to find out that you’d abandoned your plans within the first few months? It’s extremely common when coming out of a period of indulgence to want to detox and start afresh but, it’s important to be realistic in your goals if you wish to avoid disappointment this year.

3. Break the year down into monthly goals and reward yourself appropriately for keeping on track.

Andrea’s Top Tips for 2020 Success 1. Look back at your previous year’s goals and identify what worked and what didn’t. Plan strategies that will avoid the same pitfalls.

Good luck with your new endeavours, and reach out for help from one of our experienced health practitioners, if you need a boost. n

2. Recruit a trainer that will keep you on track.

Your health and happiness is an investment, and arguably the most important one you can make.

For more ideas about how to make 2020 a roaring success, get in touch with us @hvholistic 17775544 or info@hvholistichealth.com

40 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

4. Get accurate measurements and a full medical checkover, to identify your true starting point.

5. Look into alternative treatments, such as infrared saunas, which can boost your mood as well as your weight loss.

6. Do your own research into the diet you want to work with. With so much information out there, it’s important you find what works for you over a long period of time. Avoid anything promising ‘rapid weight loss’ or ‘detox’. Instead, focus on consistency and sustainability.

7. Keep a diary with your thoughts, emotions and energy levels, and reflect often on how you’re coping with the changes.

Health

Managing Migraines Back on the Move shares all you need to know about osteopathy.

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techniques to the head, neck, and upper back. These professionals are expertly trained to feel tension changes in all body tissues, and correct postural strains that can produce these tension changes, with the use of gentle manipulation techniques.

A lot of people suffer from headaches and migraines, often for long periods of time without finding a solution. A large portion of these people also resort to pills and preventatives which can build up stress within the digestive tract such as the liver and stomach.

If you’re experiencing constant reoccurring headaches or similar pain that debilitating, it is best to consult a professional. Back on the Move offers the following services: Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture (Traditional Chinese Medicine), Lymphatic drainage, Cranial sacral therapy, Therapeutic massage therapy, Fitness and posture correction coaching and Sports massage. n

early everyone has a headache at some stage of their life. Migraines usually are associated with sensitivity to sound, light, and smells. A migraine attack may be accompanied by nausea or vomiting. This type of headache often involves only one side of the head, but in some cases, patients may have pain bilaterally or on both sides.

There are various factors that can contribute to the generation of migraines including stress, diet, fatigue, dehydration, hormonal influences and postural dysfunctions. However, the ‘mechanical’ causes of various types of headaches are frequently overlooked.

An osteopath will consider all of these factors, but structural reasons for migraine headaches is the first place to start in addressing the problem.

When muscle strain causes tension headaches, a chiropractor may be able to ease it with manipulation and realignment. Osteopaths also can use soft-tissue First Floor, Sunlight Plaza, Seef District, Bahrain Tel: +973 77 300 600, Mob: +973 3919 7480

42 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Dr. Lana Peters is the founder of Back on the Move and co-founder of Be Rehab. She has over 35 years experience in the field of osteopathy. She aims to improve the lives of Bahrain citizens and expats. backonthemove.com +973 7730 0600 Email: hello@backonthemove.com

www.backonthemove.com

Under The Patronage of

His Royal Highness Prince Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE AWARDS WINNERS FOR THE FOURTH EDITION - 2019

Ahmed Abdulhameed Alawadhi Doctori Online Services

Abdulla Binhindi Rashed AlAraiďŹ Ahmed AlMannai Shepherd Design Studio Co WLL

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Nezar Al Saie Kalaam Telecom Bahrain B.S.C

Micro Enterprise of the Year

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Mohamed Abdulaal All Food for Food Stuff

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Sustainaibility in Business Award

Female Entrepreneur of the Year

Global Enterprise of the Year

Lifetime Achievement Award

Travel

Experience the best Portugal has to offer with Dadabhai Travel’s exclusive package!

Evora Évora is an enchanting place to delve into the past.

Aside from its historic and aesthetic virtues, Évora is also a lively university town, and its many attractive restaurants serve up hearty Alentejan cuisine.

Portuguese Escape Tomar Tomar is one of central Portugal’s most appealing small towns.

With its pedestrian-friendly historic centre, charming natural setting and riverside parks, this small town is interesting enough for a visit.

Lisbon After Athens, Lisbon is the capital city that has been around for the longest. With its rich history, charming architecture and buzzing nightlife, it is one of the most charismatic and vibrant cities of Europe.

*Price is per person on twin-sharing basis and subject to availability at the time of actual booking.

For more information: holidays@dadabhaitravel.com www.dadabhaitravel.com

44 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Oporto Also known as Porto, Oporto is the capital of the North. Unpretentious and inwardlooking, this place is an underrated foodie city surrounded by vineyards and port cellars.

Viseu Set on a plateau high in the hills, Viseu retains a medieval feel to what was once a walled centre and has been an important crossroads since Roman times. Viseu is a busy provincial city full of artistic treasures, historical churches and a strong culture of local crafts.

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Feature Photo by: Leanne Marshall

Beautiful The Kingdom of Bahrain celebrated its 48th National Day. Take a look at these captivating shots by our social media followers.

46 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Photo by: Dr Khalid Khan

National Day

Feature

Photo by: Rajesh AK

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he name "Bahrain" is derived from the Arabic word “bahr”, meaning “sea”. The name may reflect the archipelago’s position between two seas, approximately 24 kilometers east of Saudi Arabia’s sea board and a little further from the north west coast of Qatar.

Bahrain’s 48th National Day celebrations began with a dazzling display of fireworks that lit up the skies over the Kingdom. Meanwhile, the residents’ patriotic fervor was on full display with national flags flying high across several locations in the Kingdom. Landmark sites were also lit up to mark the occasion.

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 47

Feature Photo by: Rey Mark Esteban

Photo by: Mohammed Usama

National Day Commonly referred to as the “Pearl of the Gulf,” Bahrain commemorated over 6,000 years of history with two days of events including fireworks, vibrant decorations, and cultural parades filled with song and dance. n

The name "Bahrain" is derived from the Arabic word “bahr”, meaning “sea”.

48 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Feature Photo by: Sanal Raghundhanan

Photo by: Ali Kazerooni

Photo by: Nissamudheen Said

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 49

Feature

The I Do’s Plan your dream wedding at Sofitel Bahrain’s first-ever wedding fair 2020!

Wi-Fi creative catering, accommodation packages and leisure activities for guests. One of the leading meeting venues in Bahrain, the location of this business-friendly hotel is the picturesque, Zallaq beach, on Bahrain’s west coast just 30 minutes from Bahrain airport.

Partake in Sofitel Bahrain’s first-ever, outstanding Wedding Fair in Al Nakheel Ballroom on the 19th and 20th of January and meet industry’s top 6 Wedding Planners, the best Photography agency, professional Lighting and set up company along with Middle East’s only Thalassa Sea & Spa and French Le Salon specialists to get inspired with the latest wedding trends.

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rom a board meeting to a banquet event for 1200 people in Al Nakheel Ballroom, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa offers meeting rooms and facilities to suit every need. The vast Al Nakheel Ballroom alone covers 1,100 square metres and can comfortably seat guests in an elegant setting with quality. Sofitel Bahrain’s private Sofi Island is a stunning location for photo shoots receptions and corporate events in Bahrain.

The Magnifique Meetings Concierge may organize custom layouts, high-tech audio-visual facilities,

50 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Witness exclusive Haute Couture Bridal fashion shows, world-class live entertainments, finest gastronomy as well as stunning Wedding Ballroom setups for private inspections to ensure your dream day is purely enchanting. Avail Sofitel Bahrain’s special Summer Wedding 2020 offer starting from only BD15net at the fair for a chance to host your dream wedding! n For more information: +973 1763 6363 H6722@sofitel.com

Paradise found in the heart of Manama

The Reef Clubhouse and Lagoon Beach offers an exclusive retreat on the purpose-built Reef Island. The clubhouse aims to be a vibrant hub of luxury lifestyle amenities including facilities for dining, well-being, leisure, socialising and relaxation as well as a playroom with great kids‘ facilities.

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Image Courtsey: socialnews.xyz

Feature

A Historic Achievement Bahrain wins the Gulf Cup for the first time in its history!

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he Kingdom of Bahrain’s wait for a major football trophy recently ended in Doha with the national team lifting the 24th Gulf Cup against tremendous odds in front of a rapturous crowd dressed in red, including 2,000 fans specially flown in for the final.

Khalifa International Stadium saw a thrilling Gulf Cup with Bahrain beating Saudi Arabia 1-0 to claim the title. Bahrain’s Mohammed Al Rumaihi scored the goal at 69th minute to lead past the Saudi, ending the 49-year wait for a maiden Gulf Cup title.

52 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Feature

Bahrain head coach Helio Sousa was in a jubilant mood following the country’s historic Gulf Cup victory. At his postmatch press conference, the Portuguese tactician was rushed by his players, who began chanting his name in unison as they celebrated their achievement.

It is a great day in the history of Bahraini football that deserves to be celebrated.

“It is a great day in the history of Bahraini football that deserves to be celebrated,” Sousa said after his players cleared the conference hall. “This day is the culmination of the tremendous work we started, to create a team that can compete for titles. We have fighters in every match.

It is a unique moment that we must be proud of”, he said.

Sousa added: “I congratulate the Bahraini people on this achievement; congratulate our players on this heroic performance, and our goal is to continue to achieve good results and to make our way in the double qualifiers for the World Cup 2022 and Asian Cup 2023.”

Having a peak to climb, the Reds proved the tough gets going when the going gets tough. They have risen to the summit from the depths, much to the joy of the Kingdom and their countless fans. n

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 53

Feature

A Fusion of Flavours Bahrain Confidential shares a conversation with Fusions by Tala’s Head Chef, Tala Bashmi.

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n exciting new restaurant concept is coming to Bahrain this month!

Located at the Gulf Hotel and overlooking the Bahraini skyline, Fusions by Tala is bound to captivate culinary aficionados and foodies alike. Headed by Chef Tala Bashmi, the restaurant will be a synergy of Middle Eastern cuisine and fine dining – a place where ingredients of memory and Bahraini tradition are whipped into a frenzy of new and daring dishes. Just recently, we had the chance to interview Chef Tala to talk about what’s new and what’s next.

Can you shed light on your vision for Fusions by Tala?

I want to modernize Middle Eastern cuisine and at the same time, show the importance of our local ingredients at Fusions

by Tala. I also want to surprise people and try to slowly shape their palates in a different way.

We’ve been eating in a certain way for a very long time so I feel like it’s a good time to kind of change that.

How is it going to be different from the old Fusions in terms of concept, design and offerings?

Fusions by Tala will focus more on the vibrant Middle Eastern

54 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Feature

Why should people come to Fusions by Tala?

Because it’s a different experience. I don’t want Fusions to just be a trend; I want it to be a modern and classic place to go. Most restaurants are based on cuisine and not based on the chef creating the cuisine.

I feel like the new Fusions has a very chef-driven concept which is rare.

Where is your go-to restaurant in Bahrain?

I can’t say there’s one restaurant so I’ll name a few.

For brunch, the Four Season’s CUT Brunch is good. I also enjoy going to Mirai because I feel like their food is very consistent. If we’re going casual, I would say Banana Leaf – it’s something that always hits the spot for me. flavors. The design, on the other hand, is completely different. It’s minimal. This reflects my food in general – simple but intricate. I’m very influenced by the Scandinavian cuisine and design so I kind of took the lead on that one. I believe that the focus should be on the food and the gathering so the restaurant’s design shouldn’t be overly distracting. However, I’ll be putting up some artworks created by local artists.

How would you describe your style of cooking?

Minimal – everything is on my plate for a reason. I also use different techniques whether they’re traditional or modern. I don’t let flavors limit me. I’ve learned to cook what I like to eat and I feel like people have responded well to that.

What advice would you give to all the aspiring chefs out there?

First, don’t let what others say get to you especially if they try to demotivate you based on what career you’re choosing. Next, work hard. It’s not just about culinary school, it’s also about restaurant experience.

Finally, don’t stop learning no matter what. Be proactive, teach yourself, try different cuisines and most importantly, travel.

How was your experience being a part of MBC’s Top Chef?

It was a lot of hard work but I can say that I’m very happy to have come across the chefs I’ve met in the show. It was a great opportunity to be able to compete with some of the best chefs in the region.

Overall, it was a fulfilling experience. n

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 55

Feature

Doyoureallylikeit?

Bahrain Confidential shares a conversation with one of Bahrain’s most hyped bands, Doyoureallylikeit!

Photographer: Abdulla Minhas

56 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Feature

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f you’re an event enthusiast in Bahrain, chances are you have already witnessed this band steal the show with their energetic performances and magnetic stage personalities. Established in 2017, Doyoureallylikeit? has been continuously testing the limits of what entertainment on the island is all about. Just recently, we had the chance to interview the band’s lead singer and manager, Abdulla Mahmood.

Can you tell us how ‘Doyoureallylikeit?’ came to be?

I had heard of Deema and Debbi from their incredible performances that was already the talk of the town.

It was all around Instagram and I had just returned from my studies in England. I wanted to start a new band and contacted them. It is very rare to find

Brazilian, Saudi Arabian, Filipino and Bahrainis have one thing in common, rhythm. musicians that from the first rehearsal connect with such chemistry; I think we all had a big hunch that we have something good going. I’m not going to lie it was very difficult to maintain and schedule especially at the start.

Usually, nobody sees the potential of a band from the early days. Nevertheless, we all pitched in various areas of the band in hopes of improving. I can’t thank everyone involved enough – from the photographers and parents, to the fans that helped us buy musical equipment and to the venues that gave us

opportunities to play, they genuinely really liked us.

What’s the story behind your band name?

Its symbolism refers to the critique of audiences around the world that have been born in the digital age; where the term “like” has been redefined to an unconscious decision of interest.

How have your cultural roots influenced your craft?

Brazilian, Saudi Arabian, Filipino and Bahrainis have one thing in common, rhythm.

You are one of the most hyped bands in Bahrain. It’s probably because you’re really good, but why do you think that is?

Good management.

Can you hint to any projects that may be in the works?

We’re recording at the moment and are hoping to release singles every now and then. The idea of composing albums has dried and died in the past 5 years. We’re are constantly playing shows throughout the year and are hoping to improve our entertaining approach with every gig. We are also looking into touring which as you can imagine can be difficult regionally due to our multi-cultural band members. If you follow us on our Instagram or visit our website, you’ll know about our latest updates and releases.

What’s your favourite place in Bahrain and why?

It’s so difficult to pick just one when you genuinely have so many incredible experiences. McGettigans is one, Hazel is another, and our first show in Calexico was unforgettable. n www.doyoureallylikeit.com @doyoureallylikeitmusic

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 57

Feature

Flying High Bahrain Confidential interviews Cathay Pacific’s Area Manager for the Middle East, Mr. Vishnu Rajendran.

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ell us about your role as the Middle East Head for Cathay Pacific. What are your key priorities for the region?

The Middle East region has always played a key part in Cathay Pacific’s global network and being able to steer the next phase of our plans is really exciting. Cathay Pacific has enhanced its customer experience proposition during the past few months and it is my responsibility to ensure our customers experience the comfort and luxury of our services when they travel with

58 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

us through Bahrain along with re-emphasizing our strong and seamless connections to Asia and beyond. Our aim is to consolidate our presence in our existing online markets of Dubai and Bahrain – while also continuing to explore the potential of the many offline markets in the region.

How do you improve the travel experience for the modern airline customer?

As an airline, we value regular feedback from our customers

Feature

Mr. Vishnu Rajendran

What routes from Bahrain are most popular with Cathay Pacific?

Bahrain is a market we have served for over 43 years.

We have continuously adapted our schedules and product offering over time to suit market demands.

We now operate a daily flight to Hong Kong via Dubai. While our daily wide-body service between Bahrain and Dubai has been a hit among customers, we also cater to passengers travelling to Hong Kong and onwards to Philippines as well as other destinations in Asia and Australia.

and frequent flyers and I am delighted to say that the recent improvements to our product and service offerings have been positively received. In addition to the enhancements in the Premium cabins, our inflight entertainment has seen us quadruple our offering.

With it being a highly competitive industry, especially in our region, what makes Cathay Pacific different and stand out?

The Middle East is home to some globally renowned carriers known for their high standards. We continue to indulge passengers with an elevated premium travel experience with the recent introduction of an array of thoughtfully chosen enhancements to the service, soft products and culinary offerings that are being rolled out on board our Business Class cabins.

These enrichments are designed to offer passengers a more holistic, sensory experience that begins from the moment they begin their journey.

We are also elevating our Economy Class inflight dining experience with an exciting new menu developed in collaboration with Hong Kong’s most dynamic food and hospitality group, Black Sheep Restaurants.

What are your plans for Bahrain? Can you share any exciting news that you have for the Kingdom?

The Middle East is an extremely important market for the Cathay Pacific Group as we have operated in this region for more than 40 years. This region was also very strategic for us as it helped fuel our long-haul expansion with our first flights to London stopping over in Bahrain in 1980. Today, as air travel and market dynamics have significantly changed over the years – the Middle East continues to play an important role as a region in our international network. We continuously monitor traffic on these routes and align our frequency and capacity accordingly. More specifically in Bahrain, we are working closely with the authorities as we gear up for the move to the new terminal.

If you could change one thing about aviation in general, what would it be and why?

If I could change one thing about aviation, it would probably be jetlag! I love travelling and everything that goes with it from the excitement and preparation, the flight itself and then the enjoyment of exploring a new destination (or an old favourite), but the jetlag that often comes with it is the only thing I’d like to leave behind! n

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 59

Going Out

Are you wondering where to get some delicious tacos in Bahrain? We did the research so that you don’t have to. Here are our follower’s top picks!

Tacos We asked our social media followers where their favourite taco place is – here’s a rundown on where to get the ‘best tacos’ in Bahrain.

Casa Mexicana Where: Adliya Since 1993, Casa Mexicana has been known for its authentic Mexican food and ambiance.

The Menu is filled with classic Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes including tacos, fajitas, refried beans and guacamole. Not only do they serve great food, they also offer an extensive range of cocktails featuring flavoured margaritas.

60 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Going Out

Cantina Kahlo Where: The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Cantina Kahlo reflects the vibrancy of the Mexican culture in its traditional Mexican cuisine as well as its beautifully crafted interior. The exciting restaurant features salads, tacos, tamales and other authentic, street-inspired fare alongside premium grilled meats, fresh seafood and decadent desserts. The restaurant represents an authentic, innovative and truly exceptional Mexican fare that stands out from the rest on the island.

Chef & The Whale Where: Budaiya Highway

Links Where: The Royal Golf Club

Calexico Where: Adliya

Chef & The Whale presents cuisine from all around the world using local produce prepared on site every day. Taking inspiration from that, all the dishes on the menu are designed for sharing.

Links Lounge and Restaurant, located on the mezzanine floor of the Royal Golf Club, is a one-of-kind outlet which offers views of the stunning golf course and plenty of greenery. During Thursdays, they offer unlimited mouthwatering tacos alongside some live entertainment!

From Brooklyn to Bahrain, Calexico serves tacos, cocktails and other Cal-Mex favourites. Their tacos are made to order and feature homemade, fresh-pressed and soft-corn tortillas.

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 61

Going Out

Comalito Where: Weekly popups around Bahrain

with their homemade Salsa Roja. Comalito also has a drinks menu with Mexican beverages like the Aguas Frescas and Horchata.

Comalito is a labor of love based childhood memories of the Chef making tacos with her mother and grandmother. During the time of writing, the food truck is located at the dirt lot across the street from Al Jazira Juffair. A variety of authentic taco flavours are available which includes chicken, beef and duck carnitas, served

Although Comalito doesn’t have a restaurant, the food truck shares their delicious authentic cuisine during scheduled popups announced on their Instagram page @comalito_bh.

Burrito Loco Where: Juffair, Busaiteen, Hamala

Margarita Mexicana Where: The Gulf Hotel Bahrain

Señor Pacos Where: Adliya

Burrito Loco serves a delicious variety of burritos and tacos, with freshly made salsas and guacamole. The restaurant also has veggie tacos for those who don’t eat meat.

Located at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain, Margarita Mexicana offers Mexican cuisine with a contemporary flair. All of the restaurant’s dishes including tortillas and guacamole are freshly prepared to guarantee that the fine dining experience are as authentic as possible.

Señor Pacos offers a selection of authentic Mexican dishes in addition to its ‘New West Cuisine’. The restaurant highlights a superb choice of the Mexican cuisine that is known for its intense and varied flavours.

62 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Going Out

Ocho Salsas Where: Deliveries only (Talabat & Carriage) Ocho Salsas is an authentic Mexican brand serving lots of flare, flavour and love. Available for delivery, the most-selling dishes of the restaurant are the gorditas, quesadillas, burritos and tacos! Their taco selection includes the Picanha (Premium Steak), Grilled Steak, Chicken Al Pastor, Shrimp, Vegetable, Barbacoa and more.

Keep your eyes on our social media pages and stay updated on the latest “Bahrain’s Best”! www.bahrain-confidential.com Tortilla Arabia Where: City Centre Bahrain

Franks A Lot Where: Juffair

Straight out of Mexico come the toppings like pollo asado and salsa roja, mixed with some Californian inspiration such as black beans, lime-cilantro rice and freshly chopped jalapeños. All which help make up Tortilla Arabia’s light and authentic burritos and tacos.

Franks A Lot is a casual Tex-Mex restaurant that serves burritos, enchiladas, tacos, TexMex platters and more.

@BahrainConfidential @BahrainConfidential

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 63

Going Out

Brunches & Lunches

New Year’s Day Brunch at Choices Terrace Where: ART Rotana Price: BD25/36 NET Start the New Year with your family and friends at the famous Choices Garden Brunch, complete with various live stations and a wonderful selection of international dishes plus live entertainment from the resident Cuban band ‘Soneando’.

ART Rotana

For more information: +973 1600 0111 Rags to Riches Dress Up Brunch at Harvesters Where: Crowne Plaza Price: BD19 NET At Harvesters, start 2020 with a special Rags to Riches dress up brunch for only BD 19 net on 3rd January. Enjoy a host of international street food items along with unlimited selected beverages and live entertainment while standing the chance to win on the spot dress of the day prizes.

For more information: +973 1753 1122 The Butcher’s Board Friday Brunch at Flavours on 2

Friday Family Brunch at La Brasserie

Where: Downtown Rotana Price: BD22/33 NET Fridays just got meatier! Introducing the Butchers Board Friday Brunch at the awardwinning restaurant Flavours on 2 featuring succulent cuts of Beef, Lamb and chicken all cut and cooked to your preference.

Where: Elite Resort & Spa Price: BD9.9++/16.5++ Enjoy a lavish buffet with international dishes overlooking the Bahrain bay from 12:30pm to 4pm. Unlimited food and soft drinks is available for BD9.9++ while the unlimited selected beverages package is available for BD16.5++.

For more information: +973 1311 9999

For more information: +973 1731 3333

64 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Going Out Chinese New Year Brunch at Bahrain Bay Kitchen

Live Carvery & Sushi at Links

Where: Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Price: BD30/43 NET Have a special Friday brunch on 24th January to see in the New Year of the Pig including live dim sum stands, a Peking duck station, prosperity tossed salad, Singapore chili crab.

For more information: +973 1711 5500

Where: The Royal Golf Club Price: BD14/15 NET Live Carvery & Sushi every Friday in the award winning Links Restaurant. Get unlimited Carvery & Sushi from noon – 4pm for only BD14 net per person with Live Entertainment. 3 Hour unlimited beverage package available for an additional BD15 net per person.

Cold Place Friday Brunch at Sherlock Holmes

For more information: +973 1775 1262

Where: The Gulf Hotel Price: BD29 NET On January 31st, enjoy a Coldplay tribute concert at Sherlock Holmes. Cold Place have been on the tribute circuit for about

Grand Festiv’ALL Friday Brunch Where: Sofitel Bahrain Price: BD35/40 NET To commemorate the new lifestyle loyalty program, ALL – Accor Live Limitless, and its extraordinary worldwide launch, Sofitel invites you to jazz it up and share unforgettable experiences at the Grand Festiv’ALL Friday Brunch on 31st January.

For more information: +973 3888 5789 Bahrain’s Sweetest Brunch at Baharat Where: Le Meridien Price: BD28/36 NET Treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience with over 130 kinds of desserts, unlimited beverages and extravagant selection of International dishes and live cooking stations every Friday.

For more information: +973 1717 1441

seven years now and have firmly established themselves as one of the top tributes in the world.

For more information: +973 1771 3000 Friday Brunchism Where: InterContinental Regency Bahrain Price: BD22/32 NET Enjoy unlimited exceptional buffet spread across 3 venues complemented by live cooking stations, seafood and meat grills, mouth-watering desserts at our dessert library and soothing live music.

For more information: +973 1722 7777 Orthodox Christmas Lunch at Silks Where: Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Price: BD25 NET Christmas is about celebrating with family and friends. The fabulous upgraded Christmas buffet is served in perfect surroundings at Silks Restaurant. Get together on Tuesday January 7th.

Family Brunch at Atmosphere Where: Wyndham Grand Manama Price: BD15++ Enjoy unique family moments with the Family Brunch at Atmosphere Restaurant, with a mesmerizing view of the Manama skyline, serving exquisite, flavourful buffets from across the world and the dedicated Asian, Indian, International and Arabic corners.

For more information: +973 1711 6116

For more information: +973 1746 0017

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 65

Going Out

Parties & Themed Nights

Sofitel Bahrain

MoĚˆvenpick

crafted ladies’ cocktails at irresistible prices while the live performers turn your Monday Blues into Monday Bliss.

For more information: +973 1753 1122 Yakitori Wednesday at Teatro

Wine & Cheese Night at Flames Terrace Where: ART Rotana Price: BD22 NET Experience a night of fine luxury at ART Rotana on the 17th January from 7pm until 10pm. A night where your palate will tingle with excitement at the taste of unlimited wines and fabulous cheeses.

A beautiful live performance will be given by a talented Violinist during the night.

For more information: +973 1600 0111 Ladies Night at Harvesters Pub & Terrace Where: Crowne Plaza Price: BD5 NET for 5 drinks Fab up your week with a selection of specially

66 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Where: Downtown Rotana Price: BD11/23 NET One of Japan's most well-known street foods has been re-created in Bahrain by Teatro's team of expert shefs. For only BD11net, indulge in a fourcourse set menu including a delicious assortment of Yakitori and more from 6 pm to 11 pm, every Wednesday.

For more information: +973 1311 9999 CUT unWINEd at CUT by Wolfgang Puck Where: Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Price: BD55 NET At CUT, the talented chefs are challenged to create a menu that is designed around a specific selection of wines, instead of the other way around. Fun and highly entertaining, the bespoke four-course menu on 22nd January will be accompanied with live music.

For more information: +973 1711 5044

Going Out Seafood Night at Al Waha Where: The Gulf Hotel Price: BD23/29 NET Presenting Al Waha’s Seafood Themed Buffet with live cooking.

Enjoy every Thursday, for the most delectable offerings of the sea and indulge in a lavish, all you-can-eat buffet of seafood.

Prepare for a warm, Swiss gourmet feast from 25th to 31st January at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain. Daily from our a la carte menu, sample the varied delights of classic Gruyere and Vacherin cheese melted in white wine.

For more information: +973 1771 3000

For more information: +973 1746 0017 Taco Thursday at Links Where: Royal Golf Club Price: BD26 NET Diners can enjoy Unlimited Tacos while enjoying the Live Entertainment. Taco Thursday is available in the award-winning Links restaurant every Thursday from 7pm to 10pm and costs just BD 26 NET per person inclusive of unlimited selected beverages.

For more information: +973 1775 1262 Russian Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at Fiamma Where: Sofitel Bahrain Price: BD30/40 NET The holiday spirit continues on 7th January with a special Russian Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at Fiamma. Gather your loved ones and savour a grand festive feast prepared with love by our culinary team to satisfy all your cravings on this joyous occasion.

For more information: +973 3888 5789 Wednesday BBQ Night at Baharat Where: Le Meridien Price: BD22/28 NET A stylish yet rustic BBQ experience at Baharat Restaurant, showcasing BBQ ribs and Wagyu prime rib steak. BBQ buffet BD 22 net including soft drinks and water, BD 28 net including selected free flow beverages. Every Wednesday from 7:00pm – 11pm.

For more information: +973 1717 1441

Orthodox Christmas BBQ at Elements & Selections Where: InterContinental Regency Bahrain Price: BD19/29 NET Join with your family for an evening filled with excitement on 7th January. Enjoy Orthodox Christmas family buffet by Elements pool and Selections with Live BBQ and other food ethnic stations.

For more information: +973 1722 7777 Swiss Fondue at Silks Where: Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Price: BD15

Seafood Night at Atmosphere Where: Wyndham Grand Manama Price: BD15++ Indulge in a delicious international seafood buffet every Thursday while admiring the stunning views of the city!

Enjoy a sumptuous array of dishes at Atmosphere Restaurant and spark some excitement with on-the-spot raffle draw!

For more information: +973 1711 6116

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 67

Going Out

Tastefully Made

Bahrain Confidential experiences a wonderful breakfast at My CafĂŠ Bahrain!

68 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Going Out

manager’s recommendations to better grasp the culinary journey at My Café. While we waited for the food to come out of the kitchen, we had time to take in our surroundings. It’s easy to see why the restaurant has become such a reliable staple of Adliya – its relaxed atmosphere, stylish interior, friendy staff and cool décor make it a fine little gem outside the city centre. Furthermore, the idyllic al fresco area is surrounded by lush foliage, where guests can enjoy freshly made food this season of outdoor dining.

The restaurant always finds a way to make you feel better even at your best.

W

ith inviting, modern and tasteful interiors spanning two floors and a secluded garden escape, My Café was created to bring food enthusiasts and like-minded people together. Just recently, we visited the restaurant to sample their breakfast menu and experience what the hype is all about.

Widely regarded as one of Bahrain’s best breakfast places, My Café brings its fine dining offerings to the ‘Bon Vivant’ – the type of person who loves life, relishes food, enjoys being with others and thrives on art and culture.

During our visit, we asked for the restaurant

The breakfast menu highlights classic and traditional favourites, but they also do awe-inspiring takes on them, like the incredible ‘Short Ribs Florentine’.

We also had the ‘My Café Shakshouka’ from the Signature selection, a vibrant mix of eggs and tomatoes.

For the health conscious, a ‘healthy corner’ is available with options like the ‘Trio of Avocado’, ‘Heathy Yogurt’ and ‘Double Almond Chia Pudding’. If you’re craving for something on the sweeter side, you’ll be pleased with their sweet offerings including the ‘Sticky Toffee Pudding’, ‘Churros’ and more!

My Café also has a colourful selection of refreshing concoctions, tea and coffee. With a Hibiscus Lemonade mocktail in hand, we took in the beautiful scene around us.

Overall, the breakfast at My Café really does live up to its reputation. The restaurant always finds a way to make you feel better even at your best, creating a delightful atmosphere to bring those who are near and dear. n For more information: www.mycafebh.com 7734 4444 @mycafebh

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 69

Going Out

Day Out at Sofitel We’ve put together a one-day itinerary for you to try at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa!

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ooking for an exciting way to spend your day? It might be time to re-imagine your typical plans with this itinerary! Whether you’re spending it with your family or partner, this provides the perfect cure for your wanderlust.

Relax at Thalassa Sea & Spa Leave your worries and your to-do lists behind – and let the relaxing comforts of the Thalassa Sea & Spa welcome you in. With its stunning interiors and tranquil ambiance, the spa itself is the perfect sanctuary – a respite away from the hustle bustle of the city life.

70 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Going Out Sofitel Bahrain’s spa, which covers 2,000sq/m of the resort, is the first and only Thalassa Sea & Spa in the Middle East to offer ‘Thalassotherapy’. Thalassotherapy is a treatment that uses salt water to ease and detoxify the body. Separated into 14 rooms, the complex aims to provide rest to everyone who needs it. Six of the rooms are for dry treatments such as massages while the other eight are for the Thalassotherapy and other waterdependent treatments.

More often than not, the hustle bustle that our daily lives bring takes a toll on our mind, body, and soul. Apart from the Thalassotherapy, we recommend getting a full body massage!

This treatment is perfect for everyone in need of a pampering session. The therapists are excellent and the services provides are professionally done.

Feast at the Friday Brunch After feeling serene and stress-free, head to the Sofitel’s dining

Sofitel Bahrain’s spa, which covers 2,000sq/m of the resort, is the first and only Thalassa Sea & Spa in the Middle East to offer ‘Thalassotherapy’.

options for an epic culinary journey. If you’re visiting on a Friday, it’s the perfect time to try the hotel’s magnificent brunch.

The Friday Brunch is a complete family affair with a lavish spread of international options and traditional favorites. The vibrant atmosphere complemented with exciting live entertainment makes for an extraordinary experience for everyone. It’s also worth noting that the brunch spans both indoors and outdoors so dining al fresco is a perfect option during this season.

Admire the sunset by the beach Bahrain’s beauty is magnified by the sunset. Once you’re done with an afternoon of indulgence, drop by the beach and catch the sun going down over the water. Sofitel is one of the few places offering an uninterrupted view of the sea, which is a treat to see in its own. n For more information: +973 1763 6363

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 71

What to do in Bahrain Read our reviews online

(Scan the QR codes to read our online reviews)

Bahrain's Best Restaurants

Bahrain's Best Breakfasts

The best restaurants according to the leaders of Bahrain's luxury hospitality industry

The best breakfast places according to our Facebook fans

Dragon Boating in Bahrain

Top Activities in Bahrain A guide on where to go and what to do in Bahrain

Study Tips: Studying Outside

The Bride Guide A guide to planning your dream wedding in Bahrain

Bahrain's Best Burgers

Bahrain's Best Pasta The Italian restaurants in Bahrain according to our social media followers

Belly dancing in Bahrain

MĂśvenpick Hotel Tel. 1746 0000

Paddle through Bahrain Bay with this competitive sport

Belly dancing classes at Crowne Plaza

72 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

The best burgers places in Bahrain according to our Facebook fans

Bahrain’s Best Coffee The best coffee shops according to our Facebook Fans

A list of places in Bahrain to with wifi, common spaces, kate hours and coffee

Reef Clubhouse Tel. 7790 0700

Read our reviews online

The Jumeirah Royal Saray

Wyndham Grand Manama

Al Areen Palace & Spa

Tel. 7770 7070

Tel. 1771 6116

Al Safir at Sheraton Hotel

Plums at The Ritz-Carlton

Tel. 1753 3533

Tel. 1758 6499

Brasserie Royale at Jumeirah Royal Saray

La Table Krug by Y at The Ritz-Carlton

Play Restaurant & Lounge

Tel. 7770 7070

Tel. 1758 6699

Tel. 1710 0345

Mahonia

Tapas at Sofitel

Tel. 1700 0071

Tel. 3888 5789

Brasserie Royale at Jumeirah Royal Saray

Tel. 1784 5000

Gallery 21 Tel. 1771 1600

Tel. 6672 0028

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 73

Read our reviews online

Baharat at Le Meridien City Centre Tel. 1717 1441

Heavenly Spa at The Westin Bahrain City Centre

Spa InterContinental at InterContinental Regency

Tel. 1717 1000

Tel. 1722 7777

NEW Wyndham Grand Manama's Spa Suite

Jumeirah Royal Saray

Bahrain's Best Sushi

Tel. 7770 7070

The best sushi places according to our social media followers

Tel. 1771 6116

NEW

NEW

Lagoon Moon at Reef Clubhouse

Xenia Bar at Mövenpick Hotel

Tel. 7790 0700

Tel. 1746 0017

Cryotherapy at °CRYO @cryo_bahrain

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Visit our website to read more about where to go and what to do in Bahrain!

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74 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

NEW

Please Call: 38884421

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Going Out

Let it Roll!

Haus Restaurant and Lounge Introduces Refined Japanese Cuisine with Launch of New Sushi Menu.

H

aus Restaurant and Lounge, Adliya’s homegrown fuss-free dining experience, has rolled out a new sushi menu that provides diners and Bahrain sushi lovers with a modern and globally inspired selection of the finest Japanese dishes.

The menu features more than 15 new dishes including firm sushi favourites such as thin sliced sashimi, hand rolled maki and classic nigiri that utilise premium quality ingredients. The restaurant’s friendly staff are on hand to provide expert recommendations based on individual guest tastes.

Speaking on the launch of the new sushi menu, Karine Espenjian, Business Development Manager, said: “The new sushi menu further elevates the unique and memorable culinary journey each of our guests experience when dining at Haus. The restaurant is renowned for its use of the highest quality ingredients, technique and presentation. By introducing these new dishes and flavours to our diners, we are keeping true to our philosophy of globally inspired flavours with homegrown flair and look forward to receiving the feedback of our guests.”

Haus’ Bohemian ambience across its indoor and outdoor seating, provides a fine dining in the heart of Adliya in an ideal space for to have a good time with friends and family. Haus Lounge presents eclectic fusion music along with good food and drinks all through the week.

For those with a sweet tooth, Haus Bakery delivers a wide range of carefully handcrafted desserts and savoury bites. In addition, the bakery provides catering services for corporate and private events. n

To place an order, call on 17663242 or 36994949.

76 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain celebrated their 25th anniversary

Going Out

Get ready for an evening of fashion and sophistication at Gallery 21!

Unique Arabia II

A

n evening of glamour and sophistication showcasing the region’s fashion talent, will take place at the heart of Gallery 21 on 30th January!

Bigger, better and bolder – Unique Arabia will be back this year for its second edition.

The fashion extravaganza will feature a myriad of designers from the region that will embody beauty, fashion, and glamour through their intricate and chic designs. The collections from different designers will be showcased by Matty B Models.

The fashion extravaganza will feature a myriad of designers from the region that will embody beauty, fashion, and glamour.

Unique Arabia Middle East Fashion Show showcases a range of fashion designers in the Middle East. The show’s vision is to highlight and promote the remarkable works of designers around the Arab world. With Gallery 21 as the venue, guests can expect an evening of elevated style, music and live entertainment.

Witness Unique Arabia II and experience an evening that will inspire you to glamorize your wardrobe in the New Year! n For more information: +973 177 11600 @gallery21bh

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 77

Influencers

New Year ...

New Beginning Dreams are created by aspirant minds that are set positively to focus on achieving those dreams and bringing them to life. Many of us look forward to New Years to make new distinctions in our lives and create the reality from our thoughts. We consider every New Year as a new beginning, a new page in a new chapter of our lives.

Beginnings are powerful because when we begin something; we form movement of energy towards that thing. Hence, with the energy movement our lives begin to move. Being optimistic is essential here for achieving desired outcome.

The moment of a new beginning is always available to us; it is neither too late nor too early. All we need to know is the truth of who we are, what we want and what it means to us. With every passing day we get to know ourselves even more. We get closer to our reality just by looking inside us and asking the right questions.

As New Year is here, we can treat it as a starting point and the best way for the same is through gratitude. By being thankful for all we have been and going through and what yet to come.

Everything that happens is a blessing from God and a lesson for us that cooperate in growing our knowledge, experience and knowing ourselves even better.

Having a New Year’s Resolutions list is other way. However, if we are happy with where we are today, we can think of how to continue to move forward. Then, we should make a decision to stay committed to our plans and take action. By not being hard on ourselves and enjoying the process, we will sense that life is awakened in us as described by Bryan Adams: It's a new world, it's a new start It's alive with the beating of young hearts It's a new day, it's a new plan I've been waiting for you Here I am Best wishes for your bright future. Happy New Year!

Shoug Ahmed Al-Ghawi is an ICF Accredited Life Coach specialized in relationships and awareness.

Shoug.alghawi@hotmail.com @shougalghawi

78 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

MoĚˆvenpick Hotel Bahrain hosted a gingerbread house making to celebrate the festivities

Society

Latest Events Photos at Bahrain-Confidential.com

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain hosted their Interhotel basketball tournament finals

80 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Saar Mall celebrated the Barhrain National Day festivities

Going Out

Fabulous Foodie Deals Take advantage of a range of great offers this winter at The K Hotel.

S

Sunday is ‘Filipino Night’ with live music and lots of traditional dishes, priced at BD7.5++. From Monday & Wednesday, the theme is American – with ribs on Monday and the hotel’s famed American Barbecue on Wednesday. These nights cost BD7.5+++ each.

Tuesday starts with a new themed night, ‘Arabian Night’ featuring Middle Eastern delicacies, authentic Arabic dishes, and sweet treats priced at BD 8.5++ per person. Thursday is a new addition to the line-up in the shape of Bahraini Seafood Night which features superb grilled fare, sushi, sashimi and more. Enjoy for only BD12.5++.

tart your day with a full-spread breakfast; eggs cooked to your liking, a range of cooked and cold meats, a tempting array of sweet and savory pastries and breads as well as top-quality fresh fruits and 11 different cheeses!

Breakfast is served from 6:30am – 10:30am and is priced at just BD6++.

All of the theme nights have live cooking stations allowing you to make your choice and have your selection prepared to your exact liking. To finish the week, the KOLORS brunch features an enormous spread of more than 200 items from soups and salads to savory appetizers, main courses, live cooking stations and desserts.

At lunch time, the regular buffet from Sunday to Thursday is available. But for those in a hurry, the hotel has recently launched the Express Lunch from 12.30pm to 4.00pm with a selection of light foods that can be cooked quickly. The Express Lunch package is priced at BD5.5++.

One of the big attractions of the popular Friday event is the seafood; always plentiful and fresh – no extra charges on the regular BD15.5++ brunch price for special items such as lobster and other shellfish. The brunch also has a live band and a beverage package which can be included for an extra BD7++. n

The evenings are when The K Hotel’s KOLORS restaurant really comes alive with theme nights running throughout the week.

For more information, please call 1736 0000 or 366 00 433

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 81

Going Out

An Elite New Year Elite Hospitality promises to impress this coming year with memorable offers for you and your loved ones.

Guests are invited to relax with the sound of the sea and enjoy Tarab nights with Live grills buffet, every Thursday & Friday, 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm. Priced at BD 10++.

Elite Seef Residence Hotel located in the heart of Seef area, will embrace your world with a warm relaxed home feel away from home. Offering spacious suites with one and two bed rooms which are the perfect choice for every corporate long term visitor.

R

efresh your weekend with an unforgettable family stay at Elite Resort & Spa Muharraq. Guests will benefit from the special discounts on all restaurants and room service menu with a bouquet of offers during the weekend.

Unwind and relax under the stars of Al Waha pool side with Tarab Nights, every Wednesday and Thursday starts 8 pm onwards. Enjoy an authentic selection of Arabic food at BD10 net per person. For only BD8 net, enjoy a lavish buffet with a wide range of grills and Arabic food from 8pm onwards while enjoying the live band play till mid night every Friday.

The Friday Brunch at the Elite Resort & Spa’s La Brasserie restaurant is a great start to the New Year; with special rate of BD12 net per person. Guests are invited to try the lavish buffet with 20 % discount and free of charge for children up to 6 years old; starts from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm.

Elite Grande Hotel offers a Family Feast promotion with a wide selection of Arabic variety. The Arabic set menu, good for 5-6 persons is for BD 19 net only! H20 pool side restaurant offers the ladies night for three days a week every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday from 6pm till 12mn with free cocktails.

The weekend vibes by the Pool side will be offering unlimited Grills at only 8 BD net per person every Thursday and Friday from 7 pm till 11 pm. n

Meanwhile, Al Naseem pool side restaurant will be offering the most beautiful views of the bay.

To view more on the hotels, please visit: www.elitegrouphotels.com

82 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Looking to buy a new car?

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Your dental health is important.

Dr Ali Hussain Al Juffairy Dental Services provides top-notch quality services from the most basic to the most complicated dental procedures you require.

For world-class dental services, there’s only one place to go.

Al Juffairy Clinic Book an appointment today

Call +973 1727 3700 E-mail: juffairy@batelco.com.bh OPEN Sunday thru Thursday from 9am up till 6pm

implants orthodontics fillings extractions root canals bleaching etc.

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Angelina Paris

Light Them Bright!

Our clients and friends officially kicked off the holiday season with these Christmas Tree Lighting ceremonies around the island!

Crowne Plaza Bahrain

84 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Latest Events Photos at Bahrain-Confidential.com

Society

Elite Resort & Spa

Golden Tulip Bahrain

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 85

Society

Elite Seef Residence & Hotel

Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain

86 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Latest Events Photos at Bahrain-Confidential.com

Latest Events Photos at Bahrain-Confidential.com

Society

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain

MoĚˆvenpick Hotel Bahrain

The Juffair Grand Hotel

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 87

Society

Latest Events Photos at Bahrain-Confidential.com

Reef Resort & Spa

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

88 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Latest Events Photos at Bahrain-Confidential.com

Society

The Diplomat Radisson Blue

Wyndham Garden Manama

Bahrain Confidential January 2020 89

Profile

Name:

Bilal Ahmed

Profession: Public & Media

Relations Manager

at The K Hotel

A short talk with interesting people living in Bahrain!

Nationality: Pakistani

Personality Profile How are you finding Bahrain?

It’s a thrilling island in GCC! Bahrain provides good comfort and relaxation places for everyone. I like the fact that there are a lot of sports events, tremendous exhibitions, promotions, superb nightlife, and freedom. As a professional, I consider Bahrain as a land of opportunities where the thrill will never stop.

and when you choose your passion then there is no question of dislike. That’s the reason I always enjoy my work.

What’s your favourite place in Bahrain and why?

The Manama Corniche in good weather gives me a pleasant feeling. Since I am fond of coffee, every alternate evening I hang out with my friends in Adliya’s coffee shops, where we play cards, laugh, enjoy good food, drink and relax with shisha. I also love to visit the seaside and some relaxing places where I feel only myself.

If you can change anything in your life what would it be?

I want to change the philosophy of professionalism; become a good human being, a trustworthy leader, and a good trainer!

What do you most like and dislike, about your work?

Marketing, PR and communication are my passion

What are you listening to at the moment?

La Casa de Papel’s ‘Bela Ciao’, ‘My life is going on’, Luis Fonsi and my all-time favourite 80’s selection. n

90 Bahrain Confidential January 2020

Biggest lesson in life: Never underestimate your capabilities because in DREAMS and in LIFE, nothing is IMPOSSIBLE!!!

What makes you happy?

When I am with my family and having quality time with my kids!