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JUNE 2021 Issue 220
30 10 Interview with TinyOm Founder
Places to Go in Bahrain
CONTENTS
Features
10
Places to Go in Bahrain
14
Workation at Gulf Suites Hotel
16
Why choose Kazerooni Heights?
18
Where to Live in Seef?
20
Great Food Delivery Apps
22
Where to buy groceries
Fashion
30
Interview with TinyOm Founder
Food
38
Best Biryani in Bahrain
44
Magnifique July at Sofitel
16
44
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
Gulf Insider is the first and currently the only Bahrain based business magazine that has strong online presence in terms of website and social media.
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Feature
Explore in Bahrain
Pearling Path In the heart of Muharraq, Bahrain’s former capital and “Pearling Path” can be found.
T
he heritage site is named as “Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy”. The location relates the unique legacy of Bahrain’s pearling era, through the architecture and the urban heritage of the old city as well as three pearl producing oyster beds in the northern territorial waters of Bahrain. The Pearling Path can be experienced and visited at any point of its 3,5km stretch that snakes through the old alleyways of Muharraq. There is no correct way to rediscover the site. Visitors can choose to start their visit at the Pearling Path Visitors and Interpretation Centre, the Al Qaysariyya Suq, the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre and more.
10 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
Feature The Pearling Path is a great suggestion for an afternoon walk, a cultural trip or just a quick photoshoot!
Opening Hours The following houses and sites on the path are currently open to the public: • Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Centre: open daily from 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm except on Sundays • Al Nukhidhah House: open daily from 8:00 am – 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm except on Fridays. n
SCAN QR CODE FOR LOCATION
1700 1700 SEEF MALL 1701 1701 CITY CENTRE
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Bahrain Confidential June 2021 11
Feature
Explore in Bahrain
Buhair Valley
B
ahrain is such a small island so the chances are, you probably have seen this scenic view during one of your drives around Riffa.
Buhair Valley is a beautiful spot of nature among the suburbs. Here you can go for a walk, listen to the chirping birds or just admire the view (which is way better during sunrise or sunset). Sadly, the area seems to be dumped illegally with garbage and building wreckage waste. If you happen to visit Buhair Valley, please try to pick up any trash that you might come across. You can check their location on Google Maps! n
PHOTO CREDITS: @luma.bashmi, @photogenic_photoss
SCAN QR CODE FOR LOCATION
12 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
Feature
Explore in Bahrain
Karzakan Forest
S
ouks, beaches and forts are some of the most popular places to go to in Bahrain.
Karzakan is a village in Bahrain that lies along the western coast of the island. If you’re a lover of nature and all things outdoor, this place will definitely enchant you. Here are some of our favorite photos!
Important note: Let us be responsible as visitors to keep the sanctity of the place and keep it as it is when we leave. n
SCAN QR CODE FOR LOCATION
Bahrain Confidential June 2021 13
Feature
Workation This hotel in Amwaj has a great offer perfect for “workations”
14 Bahrain Confidential June 2018
Feature
W
orking remotely can be overwhelming and stressful sometimes. Apart from making sure that you have a dedicated workspace, you need to ensure that you have a reliable internet connection, comfortable surroundings and access to nearby facilities. For the remote worker stuck in a studio apartment or small spare room, a workspace outside of the home offers a much-needed change of scenery. If you’re considering “WFH” or “Working From Hotel”, you need to consider Gulf Suites Hotel in Amwaj!
Gulf Suites Hotel offers an officeready one-bedroom apartment equipped with plenty of video meeting-worthy backdrops.
Gulf Suites Hotel offers an office-ready one-bedroom apartment equipped with plenty of video meeting-worthy backdrops. You’ll get a functional workspace complete with natural light, so you’ll appear wide awake and relaxed while video conferencing from afar. All you have to do is relax, refocus and get down to business amongst a comfortable setting. Take advantage of their great in-house room service, admire the scenic views and sleep like a royalty in a bed that you don’t have to make in the morning. After a hard day’s work, order one of the hotel’s delicious meal boxes. The workation offer starts from BD40 per night for a onebedroom apartment. The price includes free WiFi, free OSN channels, unlimited water and electricity consumption. Daily, weekly or monthly rates are also available. For bookings and more information, just call 1603 0001. n
Bahrain Confidential June 2018 15
Feature
5 Things to Consider Before
Buying an Apartment Purchasing an apartment in Bahrain? Here’s why you should consider Kazerooni Heights. 1. Location Location is perhaps the most vital element to consider when selecting your new home. A great location will remain an asset and a profitable investment no matter how the property market fluctuates in the future. Before buying an apartment, it is important to know the property’s proximity to amenities such as shops, schools, hospitals as well as beaches, parks and other leisure options. Situated in Amwaj Islands, Kazerooni Heights is conveniently located near commercial shopping areas, quality private schools, pristine beaches and
16 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
Feature Apartment Type
Features
Starting Price
1-Bedroom Apartment
Each one-bedroom apartment measures approximately 88 square meters of the 20-story Kazerooni Heights building.
BD 83,600
Each two-bedroom suite starts from 128 square meters. There’s also a two-bedroom option with a maid’s room/office space. There are several different apartment layout styles to choose from.
BD 121,600
Each three-bedroom apartment is equipped with a maid’s room/office space and is large and spacious (approximately 255 square meters). There are also three-bedroom duplex apartments for added comfort and privacy.
BD 247,000
2-Bedroom Apartment
3-Bedroom Apartment
parks. Moreover, the property is close to three hospitals and is only a 10-minute drive from the Bahrain International Airport.
2. Layout The layout of an apartment will impact various aspects of your home’s uses and potential so you should consider this before making your purchase. Featuring a contemporary aesthetic and unique design, Kazerooni Heights can accommodate a lifestyle that suits all your needs. Here are the highlights of each kind of apartment at the property: Each apartment is equipped with modern European furnishings. The space also features a smart layout, modern kitchen with cutting edge appliances, and more.
3. Community The scenic Amwaj District where Kazerooni Heights is located, is full of life. The area also boasts a safe and vibrant community, which makes living here a delight.
4. Amenities
Kazerooni Group has been making a mark in Bahrain’s real estate industry with their quality projects for over four decades.
Kazerooni Heights offers all the necessary amenities including a rooftop temperature controlled pool, multi-purpose banquet hall, stateof-the-art gym, steam and sauna facilities, among others. Each corner at the property is clean and well maintained, which makes for a comfortable living experience.
5. Reputation of Developer Kazerooni Group has been making a mark in Bahrain’s real estate industry with their quality projects for over four decades. Since its inception in 1973, the group has been providing international-grade civil construction services in the Kingdom. Read the reasons why they should be your first choice. n
www.kazerooniheights.com
Bahrain Confidential June 2021 17
Feature
6
Great Places to
Live in Seef There are many great places to live in Bahrain and today, we’re featuring with Seef. Here are six great serviced apartments you can check if you’re planning to upgrade your accommodation anytime soon.
Catamaran
Elite Seef Residence and Hotel
Catamaran Towers is located in the heart of Seef District, across City Centre Mall. Their apartments have full-high glass doors that extend the spaces designed to blend comfort and luxury with a perfect city view or a relaxing sea view. The property has studio, one, two and threebedroom units that can cater to families of different sizes.
Elite Seef Residence & Hotel an ideal home-away-from-home option for those in the Kingdom of Bahrain on extended business or leisure. The property has a choice of over 180 fully self-contained, luxuriously furnished apartments ranging from compact studios to spacious, three-bedroom apartments. Located in the Seef district of Manama, the financial center is easily reached, as is the international airport and the many tourist attractions of Bahrain. Facilities and amenities easily match those of an exclusive hotel with a modern fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, and fine business facilities for those wishing to host meetings or corporate functions.
For more information: +973 7777 7795 For more information: +973 1758 3388
18 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
Feature
Era Tower
Houran
Era Tower provides luxurious and furnished apartments with great views of the bustling Seef district. It’s conveniently located near numerous malls like Bahrain City Centre, Seef Mall and Bahrain Mall.
Houran Towers Residences offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations. It is home to 64 bedrooms which are tastefully furnished and many even provide such comforts. The complete list of recreational facilities is available at the hotel, including fitness center, sauna, and steam room.
This 50-storey tower offers you plenty of services such as outdoor and indoor pools, sauna, steam, jacuzzi, separate gyms for men and ladies. Moreover, it has 24/7 security system and car parking.
For more information: +973 6500 0000 For more information: +973 1738 3555
Fraser Suites
Seef Avenue
Fraser Suites offer 90 fully furnished luxury serviced apartments in Bahrain ranging from studios to penthouses, designed for guests who desire greater space and sophistication when in town. With an abundance of in-house amenities, you can have your very own hint of luxury in these chic and modern apartments. The property is directly connected to the Seef Mall, where there are numerous leisure and dining options available for guests on their door-step.
Seef Avenue has been designed to provide a life of luxury in the heart of Bahrain's business district. The property has luxurious interiors, spacious studio, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments as well as social spaces and facilities. It also has a fully equipped fitness facility, luxury pool and sauna, children’s soft play area, corporate hub and a multi-purpose hall.
For more information: +973 1756 9333
For more information: +973 1600 0600
Bahrain Confidential June 2021 19
Feature
5
Great Delivery Apps You Can Try in Bahrain Dining out used to be such an important part of our lives but now, ordering in is the next best thing. You can find below five food delivery apps which you can use to order your dishes and drinks online. Some of these apps that allow you to order groceries and have them delivered to your home.
Fatafat
DINE IN
Fatafat is an all in one on-demand delivery platform that allows users to easily and quickly order various types of products including food and groceries. Users can explore a variety of offers everyday.
DINE IN is a platform designed by restaurateurs. Enjoy premium meals from Bahrain's finest restaurants with the tap of a finger. The app only accepts contactless payments at the moment to ensure safety.
The app also has a feature wherein users are rewarded with loyalty points that can be exchanged for discounts in the marketplace.
20 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
Feature
Talabat Talabat is probably the most popular delivery app in Bahrain. Since delivering their first order in Kuwait in 2004, they’ve grown quite a lot over the past 17 years. Today, they deliver hundreds of millions of food orders, grocery items and other products per year, to customers in nine countries throughout the region. Talabat has options for food, health and wellness, as well as grocery delivery. Users can pay through cash or card on the app.
Ahlan
Notlob
Ahlan, meaning “greetings and welcome” in Arabic, is a unique loyalty program that appreciates and credits members when they dine-in or order online from restaurants.
Discover hundreds of food outlet menus with Notlob. From 5 star restaurants, fast food chains to street cafes, you can have it all. This app doesn’t charge for delivery which is something unique from its competitors.
Ahlan Members can accumulate credit and spend it at their will in any of the featured restaurants. As a member, you will be rewarded for your loyalty by receiving “cash back” credit with a minimum 5% of the total value of each order.
Bahrain Confidential June 2021 21
Feature
6
Great Places in Bahrain to Buy Your Groceries From We summed up the best supermarkets and hypermarkets in Bahrain, according to our social media followers. Below are six of the leading ones on the island.
Alosra
Al Jazira Supermarket
What our followers like about it: Friendly staff, large selection of imported products, fresh pastries, clean surroundings ‘Alosra’ is Arabic for ‘the family’, which is the perfect way to describe their stores and the people behind them – they are your local, friendly supermarket. Their stores have a great mix of local and international brands and fresh foods.
What our followers like about it: Large selection of bioproducts, produce and cold cuts. With multiple stores all around Bahrain, Al Jazira has been offering goods since 1965. It is one of the first stores to import products from UK, Holland, Denmark and India. Al Jazira provides frozen and dry grocery, dairy products, bakery items, household items, and more.
22 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
Feature
Lulu Hypermarkets What our followers like about it: Diverse selection of items, extensive food counters, great service, reasonable prices LuLu Hypermarkets integrate all needs of shoppers under one roof. The hypermarkets have extensively laid out counters, spacious parking spaces, food zones as well as an array of international and regional brands.
Carrefour
Megamart
Tamimi Markets
What our followers like about it: Great offers according to seasons, wide selection of products, fairly priced items Carrefour was launched in the region in 1995 by UAE-based Majid Al Futtaim, which is the exclusive franchisee to operate Carrefour in over 30 countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The hypermarket offers a wide variety of merchandise – from grocery to bakery items and electronics.
What our followers like about it: Affordable prices, friendly customer service at checkout. Megamart offers a wide range of products that are affordably priced. The supermarket also has a range of Tesco items.
What our followers like about it: Lots of choices for organic food, clean environment. Tamimi Markets is a Saudi supermarket brand. They have a variety of fresh produce and organic items perfect for the health conscious.
Bahrain Confidential June 2021 23
Feature
Henlo there! Know more about Bahrain’s first pet service app!
T
ell us your story, how did Henlo start? The henlo journey all started three years ago when Louay Malas, Founder & CEO and his wife Dina adopted an adorable shih tzu and named her Gucci! After welcoming Gucci into their lives, Traveling together became quite difficult, as they didn’t want to leave her behind in a kennel. Luckily for Louay & Dina they had a neighbor who offered to pet sit with the space and time needed to dedicate to looking after their four-legged family member (it also worked out much cheaper) – It was a perfect match! “Suddenly the thought hit me; what if I can develop a platform that connects pet owners with pet carers, while at the same time give the owner the feeling
24 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
Feature that they’ve never missed a moment away from their pet? The concept was born!” Louay Malas.
through the henlo app saving pet owners the time of having to make a call to their vet.
Excited by the concept, Louay & Dina agreed on the brand name henlo (doggy lingo for hello) and began the app development process.
All payments are managed and done through the henlo app and transferred only once a service is complete, to ensure pet owners are satisfied with the 5-star care their pets deserve.
What services are you providing? We provide services for both pet owners & pet carers. There are two apps: one for pet owners, called henlo and one for pet carers called henlo Carer.
For the henlo Carer app, applications are open to animal lovers over 18yrs, however, all Carers undergo a verification and background check before they can offer services. The sign up process is very simple and once verified Carers can choose which paid services they would like to provide whether it is dog walking, pet boarding, or both. Carers can monitor & manage all their received payments via the app and have the option to earn whenever they want by going online and offline as they wish. What makes Henlo different? henlo is the first 5 star pet services app in the Kingdom of Bahrain that allows pet owners to book on demand dog walking, pet sitting with verified carers and veterinary services! Pet owners don’t have to worry about leaving their pets for long periods of time when they have access to the henlo app. Unlike kennels, booking pet services through the henlo app means your fur babies will be one-to-one with our Carers on walks and in a home environment when boarding. This intimate & tailored service is also more cost effective than a regular kennel! How do you maintain the quality of the services you are providing? What are the qualifications required for pet carers? All henlo carers undergo a verification and background check before they are able to provide services. Pet owners are able to rate their carer based on their experience & overall service, this helps us to monitor and coach our Carers to deliver the 5 star service we expect and that the pets deserve.
The pet owner app aims to become the one stop app for all pet owners – Have a pet? You need to have henlo! The App provides on demand services like tracked dog walks & pet sitting, there is even an option to book an appointment at your local vet! Pet owners sign up, add their pet and select the services they want. For henlo on demand services, pet owners instantly get connected to a nearby verified Carer. Pet owners have the option to meet their potential Carer ahead of time, so they feel comfortable with who is taking care of their pet. They are able to track their dog walks, get instant update notifications (like your dog just peed!), and at the end of the service, even receive a pet report of that they can save and share.
What are your plans for the next year? In the months to come, henlo aims to add additional services to the app, to make sure everything your pet could ever need, is found in a single app and at the touch of a button. The launch of the Android version of the app is also due to be launched while also commence with our expansion plans within the GCC and MENA regions – We’re here to make it right, for everyone’s pet! n
For veterinary bookings pet owners can schedule, pay, and manage their pets’ appointments in real-time
Bahrain Confidential June 2021 25
Feature
Decluttering Items? Did you know that there’s a self-storage facility in Hidd?
F
rom time to time we can all use a little extra space; that’s where Takhzeen comes in!
Takhzeen is the first self-storage facility of its kind in Bahrain. Located in Hidd, they specialize in providing personal and business storage solutions. Whether you’re making space at home, storing furniture or moving houses, they have a secure storage unit for you! Takhzeen has flexible spaces ranging from 2.5 to 200 square meters with various tenancy terms. Moreover, their units are climate-controlled and monitored. They also have a state-of-the-art security, administration and support facilities, as well as 24/7 access to the units. n
26 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
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Feature
Are vaccination passports the future of international travel? Recently, we spoke to Dadabhai Travel’s Director, Adnan Gilitwala to gain some insights on this matter.
I
t’s been over a year since the world began to fully feel the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although all sectors have struggled to navigate through the pandemic, few sectors have been hit harder than most – including the travel industry. Just recently, we spoke to Dadabhai Travel’s Director, Adnan Gilitwala to gain some insights on vaccination passports, the future of travel and more.
Are COVID-19 passports going to improve travel? Bahrain has become one of the first countries in the world to launch a digital COVID-19 “vaccine passport”. The BeAware app – which was launched at the onset of the pandemic to facilitate contact tracing, and currently also manages digital vaccine bookings – will function as the passport. The app will be able to confirm an individual’s immunity status
28 Bahrain Confidential April 2021
Feature enhance people's comfort level of getting out there and traveling again by air but he doesn’t see it affecting the travel industry directly. He said: “Like most industries, it is a matter of supply and demand. The demand is there but currently, the supply isn’t – so even if a country opens up tomorrow and even if everyone gets vaccinated tomorrow, if the sheer number of flights doesn’t return back to the way it was – then the industry will not see any huge benefits from this.” “Will inspire confidence in people? Will it create a greater sentiment towards travel? Will it psychologically affect the industry? Absolutely”, he commented.
Is the way of doing business going to change? Adnan says that it would depend on the industry in question: “Travel is one of the industries where your market is growing every single year because it’s dependent on people. The more
Bahrain has handled the entire Covid situation remarkably from day one”, Adnan shared.
people we have every year, the more potential travelers we have.” “Certain industries will able to still operate and conduct themselves in a virtual format. Some might feel like it might be a good gap arrangement but it’s not how they would want things to be, permanently”, he added.
Is the market going to bounce back? via a green “COVID-19 Vaccinated” shield, accompanied by an official certificate with the account holder’s name, date of birth, nationality, and vaccine type selected. GCC leaders have also shared plans about having a unified passport for GCC countries. “Bahrain has handled the entire Covid situation remarkably from day one”, Adnan shared. “They have maintained the balance between giving us freedom while keeping everybody safe. Moreover, they didn’t wait for the situation to get so bad before reacting to it. They’ve been very proactive – something that I am very proud of as a Bahraini national”, he added. Adnan believes that the vaccine passport is going to further
COVID-19 has decimated the passenger-carrying industry worldwide, without a doubt but Adnan believes that the industry will soon bounce back. He shared that traveler experiences aren’t going to be the same because it will depend on country to country. Every country has a way of doing things and a trip to a place might be very different post-Covid.
How is Dadabhai Travel coping? “It has been over a year since COVID-19 has become a global issue and the pandemic has been one of the most drastic effects in the world that we have seen in our lifetimes. Despite that, Dadabhai Travel is still here; we are still active and fighting to retain our place as the market leader in Bahrain. We’re also continuing with our expansion across the GCC and working on revamping our infrastructure as a company”, Adnan shared. n
Bahrain Confidential June 2021 29
Feature
tinyOm This Bahrain-based jewellery and lifestyle brand creates unique handcrafted designs!
30 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
Feature
W
hen we attended the Ministry of Culture’s recent pop-up shop at Suq Alqaysariyya, we came across a vibrant array of locally made art pieces, handicrafts, jewellery and more. Among this is tinyOm, a jewelry and lifestyle brand making beautifully crafted pieces.
I was also inspired by the philosophy of yoga which is something I love, practice and teach. We had the chance to talk to its founder, Virginie Dreyer, to know more about the brand’s story, her inspiration and more exciting news. Please introduce yourself. My name is Virginie Dreyer. I am French and I am the founder and Creative Director of tinyOm Jewellery & Lifestyle for the Soul.
After working in Paris as a lawyer, my family circumstances brought me to the Middle East. This is where I started studying graphic art and design, and where I have been able to explore my creative desires. What first led you in the direction of creating TinyOm? In Bahrain, I was seduced by the art and craftsmanship of local goldsmiths so I began to visualise creating a line of jewellery. I was also inspired by the philosophy of yoga which is something I love, practice and teach. The jewellery items related to yoga were always chunky and stereotyped. I wanted to create jewellery with symbolic value and meaning. At the same time, I wanted to create delicate pieces that you can wear even if you don’t practice yoga. Where do you pull your creative inspiration for your designs? My jewellery style reflects my desire for purity, simplicity and beauty. My inspirations come from universal symbols, ancestral tales and the beauty of nature. I realised that inspiration can be found everywhere everyday.
Bahrain Confidential June 2021 31
Feature
Each tinyOm piece is designed with a protective and meaningful purpose. The chakra collection, which is the signature collection of tinyOm, was inspired by the meaning of the seven chakras and their beautiful symbol, the lotus flower. I also used precious stones for this collection; each chakra is associated with a colour and a gemstone. All of tinyOm’s creations are available in 18-carat rose or white gold. However, my favourite material is rose gold for its beautiful, delicate colour. I have also incorporated natural Bahraini pearls and diamonds in some of my collections.
32 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
What do you want individuals to feel when wearing your creations? I want them to feel beautiful and in harmony with their life philosophy. Do you have a favourite item in any of your collections? My most favourite piece remains the “Sahasrara Chakra”. The crown chakra represents unity and oneness. I am deeply inspired by the concept of oneness: the idea that we are ONE, we have always been, and we will always be. In a way, every piece of any of my collection relates to this concept.
Feature
What would you say to people, especially the youth, who want to venture into the same field? Nourish your soul. Travel, experience different cultures, places, and people. Learn, be inspired, immerse yourself in nature.
The “Land of Destiny” is a tribute to Bahrain and its rich archeological heritage, inspired by the ancient Cuneiform script and its beautiful minimalist pictograms.
The creative process is a mysterious process, different for each one of us but I believe that being open and accepting always helps. Later on, you will find your unique way to be creative.
Is there any exciting news that you would like to share with our readers? How can they purchase your products? tinyOm’s latest jewellery collection was designed in collaboration with Nathaly Jung, artist and founder of the home decor brand Yalla Habibi. The “Land of Destiny” is a tribute to Bahrain and its rich archeological heritage, inspired by the ancient Cuneiform script and its beautiful minimalist pictograms. For this collection, I directed and shot a short movie featuring inspiring Bahraini women wearing the collection and talking about heritage and how heritage influences them in their work. tinyOm has also a lifestyle line that includes handembroidered cushions, organic candles, mirrors and more. The latest release is the Chakra Oil Burner, hand-crafted in Bahrain on a traditional pottery wheel. tinyOm products can be purchased online in our webshop but the orders can be also placed on Instagram or WhatsApp with same day delivery in Bahrain. Moreover, we have a lovely showroom at Budaiya Avenue and several stockist in Bahrain and worldwide. n
For more details, you can visit our website www.tiny-om.com or our Instagram page @tinyomjewellery
Bahrain Confidential June 2021 33
Feature
Capturing Moments Just recently, we caught up with Makenzie Verbout, a Bahrain-based photographer.
34 Bahrain Confidential June 2021
Feature
M
akenzie specialises in everything family related – from baby bumps, through newborns and special events. In this interview, she talks about her inspiration for becoming a photographer, tips, and some insights on the mum life. Scroll down to know more! Tell us a bit about yourself. I’m Makenzie and I’m a family and newborn photographer here in Bahrain. I have lived here for almost five years and have two daughters (7 and 5 years old). Before becoming a photographer, I worked in education and publishing.
My absolute favorite place to do sessions is in clients’ homes. Your home is where you spend most of your time and are most comfortable.
Why did you go into family photography? What do you enjoy most about it? I started, like many photographers, by first picking up a camera 8 years ago when my older daughter was born. Before having my girls, plenty of people told me time flies with babies but I didn’t really understand how quickly it goes until I had my own. I wanted to document as much as I could to remember it all. As I shared photographs of my daughters, friends started asking me to photograph their families and over time that organically grew into a business. I love being behind the camera and translating the love and joy in each family into photographs. What are some of your favorite locations for sessions? My absolute favorite place to do sessions is in clients’ homes. Your home is where you spend most of your time and are most comfortable. There is something special about having photographs taken in your home
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The more you shoot the more you start to notice what works and doesn’t work, what you like and don’t like.
for your babies to look back on, so much nostalgia and so many memories. I also love shooting outside around the island. I like to shoot at a lot of the historical spots like Arad Fort and park, in front of the beautiful murals and old doors of Muharraq, Sheikh Isa House (before it closed for construction). Where do you pull your creative inspiration for your shoots? I’m an observer by nature – one of my favorite things about working with lots of different families is noticing the special dynamics of your family and letting that lead me for the session. I notice the little things unique to your family like what you laugh about together and the way you snuggle your kids without any direction and incorporate that into our time together. How do you balance being a mom and a full-time photographer? This has been the biggest challenge for the last year with the pandemic and my girls doing their schoolwork at home. I’ve had to get a lot smarter about how I run the business. I have automated a lot more over the last year (booking process, client orders, etc.) to be more efficient, which clients have also enjoyed because it makes their experience with me smoother as well. I also limit the number of clients I take on per week. Keeping a schedule each day helps as well: we have scheduled time for schoolwork, time for the girls to play independently while I do
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Feature work, and scheduled time for us to do fun things together. This is the best way I’ve found to keep a balance without neglecting either of my roles as a business owner and a mother. Mother’s Day is approaching fast; do you have any offers that you’d like to share to our readers? Yes! I am offering mini sessions at a special rate this weekend. These sessions are for mamas and their kids and will be taking place in my garden. I will also be offering a discount on full sessions for mamas and their kids next week. I’m really excited about these offers: the work of
I also love shooting outside around the island. I like to shoot at a lot of the historical spots.
motherhood is often unseen and I want you to have a block of time where you just get to snuggle with your babies and be seen through my lens. I still have spots available on Friday afternoon for the mini sessions, and you can visit my Instagram for more information. Are there any tips that you’d like to give to aspiring photographers? Shoot something, anything every single day in the beginning. The more you shoot the more you start to notice what works and doesn’t work, what you like and don’t like. You have to push through this trial and error, and the more you shoot the quicker you will see growth in your work. Use whatever camera you have. Worry about improving your skills first and then you can level up your gear. You can also seek out a mentor or a teacher to help you along. I offer photography lessons to new photographers who need help with camera settings or fundamentals like light and composition. n
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15
Restaurants for Great Biryani in Bahrain
Biryani is a favorite dish for many. This authentic Indian classic, really needs no introduction. Here are the best places in Bahrain serving this bowl of goodness!
Asha’s Where: City Centre Bahrain, The Avenues Experience an innovative style of Indian cuisine at Asha’s. The restaurant combines traditional North Western cuisine, Indian home style cooking and new age fusion selection. Their best selling dishes include the famous Murg Makhani (Butter Chicken) and Biryani Rice.
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Biryani House Where: Manama Biryani House is a traditional Indian restaurant serving authentic cuisine in Bahrain since 2006. Located in Manama, the restaurant specializes in Hyderabadi food including ‘Dum Biryani’. The eatery is famous among the locals for its chicken biryani. Visitors have praised this place for its quantity-to-cost ratio.
Copper Chimney
Calicut Live
Where: Umm Al Hassam
Where: Manama
Copper Chimney is one of Bahrain’s oldest restaurants known for serving authentic and flavourful Indian cuisine. Grills, soups, curries, and desserts are consistently onpoint with the right taste profile. Dishes are served in ornate copper pots which is a nice touch.
This restaurant located near Bab Al Bahrain serves authentic Malabar cuisine. It’s a great place to have Kerala meals and other specialties like bamboo biryani.
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Charcoal Grill Where: Manama, Umm Al Hassam Charcoal Grill is a casual dining place that is best known for its Indian grills and fusion Chinese dishes. Most customers pop by for takeout since there isn’t plenty of space to eat. If you want a treat for your taste palate, try the Indian food, especially the chicken biryani and the mutton rogan josh. Other Indian dishes include coconut curries, cheese koftas (dumplings), and biryanis.
Delhi House
Deccan Biryani
Where: Manama
Where: Manama
Delhi House is located at Zubara avenue in Manama. They are serving variety of North Indian dishes and have made a reputation for having delicious pot and bamboo biryani.
Deccan Biryani is a restaurant popular for its Hyderabadi biryani. If you want to experience the taste of the Deccan region of India – you should try this restaurant. Do not expect refined seating here as this is a small place.
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Kozhikode Star Where: Manama This restaurant is located near the Bab Al Bahrain and behind Gold City. They are famous for their authentic Malabar style food especially their biryanis.
Desi Dastarkhawn
Hue Art Kitchen
Where: Manama
Where: @hueartkitchen
Desi Dastarkhawn is a casual dining restaurant that offers great Pakistani food. They serve authentic dishes that comes at an affordable price and great quantity.
Hue Art Kitchen is Indigo Advisory’s first culinary brand and a cloud kitchen concept. They offer delightful Indian cuisine and different options for biryani.
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Lanterns Where: Adliya, Amwaj, Budaiya, Riffa, Juffair Lanterns is one of the most popular Indian restaurants in Bahrain. The restaurant has multiplied across the island and now consist of five branches. Each restaurant offers its own unique variations of food, entertainment and ambiance – one thing they all have in common is the authentic Indian cuisine.
Show Shha
Mewar
Where: Juffair
Where: Galleria Mall
Show Shha offers some great North Indian food of Lucknow. Their richly spiced biryani is a crowd favorite.
Mewar is a region in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Rajasthan means “land of kings” so expect to be spoiled with rich and traditional flavours mixed with modern tones. The menu has a spread of choices, most of which are North Indian Cuisines.
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Nirvana Where: The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Nirvana sends you to their namesake, placing paradise on your plates. Being in The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, expect a royal gastronomic experience with their top-notch chefs. Rich taste and profound appreciation is what you’ll walk out of at Nirvana.
Mumbai Spices Where: Bahrain Mall/Adliya/Juffair/Sanad Authentic Indian street food. Mumbai Spices serves traditional Indian food, similar to how they’re made in Mumbai, but brought higher with culinary techniques. Casual, warm, and familyfriendly sitting made homelier by comforting Indian meals.
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Going Out
Magnifique Summer
Enjoy a safe and luxurious summer at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa.
L
ooking for a respite from your monotonous days? Spend your summer safely at Sofitel Bahrain! Here are some things that you can try when visiting…
Have an in-room brunch Rekindle your culinary flair, every Friday and Saturday, with the indulgent “In-Room Balcony Brunch”, inspired straight from Sofitel’s famed Grand Friday Brunch experience. Enjoy a sprawling spread of delicious international delights from the comfort of your luxury room featuring tropical sea views. The brunch is available from 12:30PM to 3:30PM for BD36 net per person with selected beverages. Only a maximum of 6 guests per room is allowed.
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Going Out Try an evening balcony brunch Tuck into your favorite gastronomic indulgences with Sofitel Bahrain’s “Evening Balcony Brunch” hosted every Friday at the hotel’s luxury room. The brunch is available from 7PM to 10:30PM for BD25 net per person with selected beverages. Only a maximum of 6 guests per room is allowed.
Enjoy a “pique-nique in prestige” Try the hotel’s “Pique-Nique in Prestige” bundle, starting from BD120net for an overnight stay in the Prestige Suite including breakfast for two as well as a delicious basket of goodies!
Soak in the sunshine with a private jacuzzi Book a chic staycation in a Luxury Room featuring a private
Tuck into your favorite gastronomic indulgences with Sofitel Bahrain’s “Evening Balcony Brunch” hosted every Friday at the hotel’s luxury room.
jacuzzi and a large sea-facing balcony. Revel in refined elegance starting from BD99 net including a breakfast for two.
Experience an Indian feast Invite Rivaaj’s award-winning, royal Indian cuisine into your home by ordering your favourite culinary delights from Talabat. Savour the succulent Achari Paneer Tikka with Mughai Paratha Bread, zesty Chicken Masala or the scrumptious Mutton Awadhi Biryani prepared by Chef Javed Qureshi and his team!
Or indulge in Japanese delights Order Maison Sushi’s contemporary Japanese gastronomic delights and sea-fresh sushis from Talabat and savour the critically-acclaimed fare from the safety of your home. Discover how Chef Myo flawlessly blends traditional Japanese ingredients and techniques with local ingredients to offer a truly innovative dining experience. n
For reservations and more details, please call 1763 6363.
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Going Out
An Elite Summer Escape
Elite Hospitality Group welcomes guests with a special summer treat this year offering special packages valid until the end of September 2021.
T
he Elite Salamatik program was created to ensure that each guest has a safe stay with their family and friends. The program is implemented at all their hotels across the Kingdom.
Elite Seef Residence Hotel This summer, you and your family can explore the special offers at the Elite Seef Residence Hotel located at the center of the Kingdom’s main shopping area. Their one and two-bedroom family suites are elegantly furnished in modern
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Going Out leather interiors. The suites include a fully equipped modular kitchen, lavish bathrooms, a home theatre system with in-house TV channels, digital satellite television system and 24 hours personalized room service with special menus. The one-bedroom suite starts at BD 30 net per night and includes WiFi and a packed breakfast meal for two.
Elite Resort & SPA Hotel Overlook the sea while enjoying the exquisite experience at the Elite Resort & Spa which promises both an exciting and relaxing atmosphere. This summer, the spacious one-bedroom suite offer starts at BD 33 net per night, and includes free WiFi and a packed breakfast for two. The elegant two-bedroom suite starting at BD 55 net is the perfect choice for a family of four to unwind.
Overlook the sea while enjoying the exquisite experience at the Elite Resort & Spa which promises both an exciting and relaxing atmosphere.
The offer includes a personalized packed breakfast service.
Elite Grande Hotel The Elite Grand Hotel offers and promotions this summer are designed for a perfect summer escape. The hotel offers a combination of luxury and city, nestled in the heart of the Seef area, close to the largest shopping complex on the island – Bahrain City Centre. The two-bed room family suite is a perfect spot to unwind if you are looking for a relaxing atmosphere. Each spacious suite, starting at BD55 net, is lavishly furnished with grand bathrooms, complete home theatre systems in each bedroom with DVD, and
HDTV satellite channels, high-speed internet access, direct dialing facility and digital safe-deposit lockers. The two-bedroom suite starts includes a breakfast meal for four persons. Guests can further benefit from their special offers at the hotel gym and pool.
Elite Hospitality Catering The excellent food and service Elite is known for is now delivered to your doorstep. Specializing in institutional catering in offices and factories, Elite Hospitality Catering is supplying to large corporates, banks, factories and ministries. They also cater for events such as receptions, cocktail parties, BBQ’s, birthdays, anniversaries and graduation celebrations. n
For bookings and more details please call: +973 17 558 200 or visit www.elitegrouphotels.com
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