Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com
189 The Best in Bahrain
Fall/Winter Fashion Trends
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Issue
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
Nicholas C. Cooksey Editorial
Angela Acosta Jemma Lilburn Miguel Antonio Dr Lana Peters Business Development
Charlie Cooksey Design
Dhanraj S. Photography
Aneesh Mathew Rafnaj KP Admin & Finance
Nikesh Pola Distribution
Mohammed Yousif
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First of all... A new month is before us so in preparation of the colder climes, we have curated the finest fashion trends to keep you warm and stylish this season. As usual, we also featured the best in lifestyle, luxury, fashion and dining. Do read on and we hope you enjoy this issue! Make it a September to remember!
Charlie Cooksey M. +973 3652 0004 charlie@gulf-insider.com
Best wishes from the Bahrain Confidential Team!
Published by:
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 Š 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.
Bahrain Confidential @BahrainConfidential @ConfidentialBah Bahrain Confidential TV
Visit: Bahrain-Confidential.com
The Best in Bahrain Bahrain-Confidential.com Online edition at ArabianMagazines.com 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.
Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com
189 The Best in Bahrain
Issue
Fall/Winter Fashion trends
BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20 Complimentary Copy
Front Cover Credits: Artwork by Hussain Ali Alnoaimi
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VISIT US IN MANAMA PHOENICIA DECOR PALACE PALMS BLDG, TEL: 00973-17564444 / NATUZZI.COM
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Social Media is changing business
Most businesses in Bahrain lack advanced digital and social media marketing skills to expertly manage a successful digital strategy, so missing major opportunities they don’t even realize. The good news is we can inexpensively create an effective digital strategy for your business, and manage it for you, for less than the salary of an employee - freeing you to run your business. We also build beautiful websites - optimized to generate income for businesses, and provide online services including SEO, design, e-commerce, photography and video production.
For a FREE evaluation of your businesses digital marketing needs. call +973 36 188 100
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Online edition at Bahrain-Confidential.com
September 2018 Issue 189
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28
Fall/Winter: Fashion Guide
Divine Destinations
40
12 90 28 Â 54 56 20 72 74 76 78
78
Juicy Pickings Not to be Missed Beautiful Women of Bahrain
Features and Interviews Divine Destinations Maintaning Reputation Futuristic Beacon
Fashion Fashion Trends
k c i P s ' Editor
Going Out Foodie Edit Specials Around the Week Flavours of Mewar A Taste of Japan
24
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Follow @Bahrain Confidential Here’s our top social media posts from last month. Don’t forget to like our Facebook page!
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The safest rides in town More privacy for you
Doha
Our call masking feature allows Captains and Customers to get in touch anonymously. Plus you can also share and track your ride and route. Book a Careem, it’s the safest way to get around town. Yalla, let’s go ;)
Events
For more entertainment, dining & nightlife, turn to Bahrain 101 listings on the back pages.
September
Missed
September
Not to be
September
September
1-15 4-5 9 Annual Summer Sale Where: Things to Do Budaiya & Riffa The annual sale on arts, crafts and needlework is back until 15th July! Equestrian items are also on sale with discounts from 20% to 35%.
For more information: thingstodobahrain.com
SmartSec Cyber Security & Blockchain Conference
‘Assilah – 40 Years’ Book Launch
Where: The Gulf Hotel Bahrain
Where: National Museum
SmartSec Conference is 2-day Cybersecurity event that focuses on the products and services Cybersecurity companies have to offer to the various industries in Bahrain. The main purpose of this event is to create an environment for cybersecurity companies to showcase their products.
In celebration of forty years since the beginning of The International Cultural Moussem of Assilah, the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities is pleased to present a book documenting Bahraini artists’ participation in the festival through testimonials and photographs shared by the artists.
For more information: FB: @smartsecme
miss Dont rite favou r u o y s Day
12 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
For more information: culture.gov.bh
10-12 HR Champions Where: Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay The conference will present a range of speaker sessions focusing on digital transformation, social media recruitment, digital HR communication, and Change Management. It’s an opportunity to meet with innovators offering business solutions.
For more information: hrcforum.net
Events
Not to be
Missed
September
For more entertainment, dining & nightlife, turn to Bahrain 101 listings on the back pages.
September
September
27
24 -27 30
Gulf Expo Bahrain
Middle East Petrotech
Where: Manama
Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre
This event showcases products like will provide counseling facilities for the national and international education industry and disseminate and expand their business in the global markets etc.
For more information: 10times.com
miss Dont ite avour f r u yo s Day
14 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
This event is the most established showcase of downstream hardware and services in the Middle East, highlighting new technologies and equipment to the refining and petrochemical industries etc. in the Petroleum, Oil & Gas industry.
For more information: Tel: +973 1755 0033
17th Middle East Corrosion Conference & Exhibition 2018 Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre The biennial corrosion conference and exhibition launched in 1979 and has accompanied the development of the Gulf region in becoming the global capital of reliable energy. This expo is recognized as a prime venue for sharing knowledge among professionals in all areas of corrosion mitigation.
For more information: Tel: +973 1781 0733
Influencers
Knowing you’re “WHY” in your life helps you thrive! What you focus on will grow in value so make sure it’s positive. Accessing your personal power and your why in life is what creates “flow” or the optimum experience of life balance alignment. This will inspire you daily influencing a new and better self-concept. Your self-concept is a parcel of beliefs about yourself and all the elements of your life. Influenced by family, religion, social heredity, education and made up of three parts: Self-Ideal: the image you have of the person you most would like to be. Being attracted to the qualities of a celebrity for example. You’re a lot closer to these qualities than you realize. Self-Image: The way you see and believe about yourself daily. Self-esteem: This is how you feel about yourself. You could have a positive or high self-concept about a sport your great at. On the flip side you could have a low or negative self-concept when it comes to cooking. The great news is you can influence a new healthier self-concept. Find your “why” through rephrasing. Example: Your either say to people “I’m just a stay at home parent” OR “I’m raising 2 beautiful children to becoming positive and happy young adults. Everyone has value. Knowing your “Why” in life is the difference between surviving or thriving. Choose the right focus and it will lead you to a happier state of being no matter the situation. The next time you’re out meeting new people and they ask what you do in life give it the value it deserves by answering the below questions with purpose! Connected to their life Purpose 1. What is my name? Sarah 2. What do I do? Prepare people to become successful in their careers. 3. Who do I do it for? Professionals or anyone seeking to get into the job market 4. What do they want from me? Confidence and knowledge to use their personal power in life. 5. How do they change as a result? They become more influential in situations and reap good results.
Lun li a Hagea
Luna Hageali is a certified Management Developer with 20+ years global experience of working with organizations and individuals to maximize their potential. Email: luna@mastermindsalign.com Mobile: +973 3203 0129
16 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
City Centre held an exclusive tour to experience the innovative Hands Free Shopping service
Influencers
“We Can and We Will” As you will all know our dear friend and mentor Tony Waters, founder of “The Dogfather Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre” lost his courageous battle with cancer on April 20th this year. Throughout Tony’s treatment he tirelessly carried on running the shelter and never complained. The mammoth task of caring for 365+ animals fell into our hands. Under the guidance of the centres patron, Musician Sandi Thom, the day to day routine has continued as normal the only difference being that Tony is not there to advise and chip in with a joke or witticism! Tony’s motto being “I will always find a way” As Tony’s 3 children live abroad an executive committee was formed to oversee the seamless transition. Along with full time workers Chula Amin & the rest of the team the work begins at 4am and carries on until the evening. Their passion and devotion for the animals is amazing. Feeding time is like a military operation with both staff and animals all knowing where they should be! The care & maintenance for both animal and the centre is an enormous operation. We are not funded and rely solely on the generosity of the public both in Bahrain & abroad. To boost our income our Second Hand Shop is run by dedicated volunteers. The average monthly cost of running the shelter is Bd5,000, including: animal food, rent, Ewa, centre workers’ salaries, vets bills & maintenance. Currently we are home to dogs, cats, birds, baboons and even a sheep & goat! Some of the animals are sponsored monthly by members of the public which is ideal for those unable to adopt. We have managed to rehome some of our furbabies! As per Tony’s wishes, strict policies are in place to implement this. Each animal is like a family member and whilst sad to see them leave we are grateful they are given the chance of a new life. With the generous support of Bahrain Confidential we will be bringing you monthly updates from “The Dogfather”n
You can follow us on www.tonythedogfather.com/donate Tel. +973 3962 9889 Th eD
r ogfathe
18 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Eid Al Adha festivities were celebrated at Saar Mall
Lifestyle & Luxury Confidential
Fa ll/ B W C in 's te rG ui de
F
BD 205
Chloé
Eyewear The effortless spirit of Chloé infuses the latest introduction to the brand’s eyewear collection. Elegant and playful and entirely crafted from thin metal, this unique double-lens frame features a glamorous front structure which recalls the shape of a delicate seashell. Available in Gold Light Pink/Gradient Blue, Gold Azure/ Gradient Burnt, Havana Rose/Gradient Green and Havana Sand/Gradient Rose
ashion
Trends Eyewear BD 205 BD 699
BD 329
Christian Louboutin
Space Oddity
Inspired by outer space, Christian Louboutin’s Fall/ Winter 2018 collection brings back edginess to Earth with pure shapes and a minimal palette of colours. Hop on a trip aboard the Louboutin space shuttle! With his compelling creativity and usual irreverence, he offers this season the delicious dizziness of a look into space. Available in City Centre. 20 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Fashion
Lacoste
In-between Tradition and Modernity This season, LACOSTE draws on its tennis heritage to unveil a new collection which strikes a balance between tradition and modernity. Designs of unabashed sporty and contemporary elegance to move easily and comfortably from the tennis court to the street. For Her: Carnaby Evo is one of the brand’s most emblematic models. Reflecting a timeless style, it evokes the elegance of René Lacoste on the courts.
BD 105
HUGO BOSS
BD 40
Meet the Spirited HUGO goes back to its roots for this season’s campaign. Somewhere between documentary and fiction, the new campaign celebrates Berlin’s unique energy. Seen through Collier Schorr’s lens, visuals capture the gritty nature of the city, merging seamlessly with the collection of relaxed tailoring, asymmetric cuts, nature-inspired prints and technical fabrics. Available in City Centre.
BD 153
For Him: This winter, LACOSTE presents two new versions which adopt two strong style codes: colour blocking and piping.
BD 40
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 21
Fashion
Messika
High Jewellery Collection Messika Paris presents pieces from the latest High Jewellery; the Kashmir collection as part of Arabian Nights collection. Kashmir Collier - Inspired by the flowing movements of precious fabrics, ValĂŠrie Messika has brought to life a stole of oval-cut diamonds. In a sumptuously inverted arrangement, the cloth of diamonds drapes over the skin with delicate grace. Available in Moda Mall, price upon request.
For Her: Close attention to essential trends, be it revivals of past moods or sophisticated interpretations of more contemporary styles, is what makes up the Fall Winter 18/19 collection. BD 60
GEOX For Him: The key features of breathability, thermo-regulation and impermeability have made Geox a worldwide symbol of advanced technology applied to the clothing and footwear sectors. Available in City Centre.
22 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
BD 76
L VB
SOMETHING IS HAPPENING THIS OCTOBER.
CURIOUS? CALL +973 1700 7808 19 Yousif Ahmed Al-Shirawi Avenue, Block 338, Adliya, Bahrain hola@vinotecabcn.com | www.vinotecabcn.com lavinotecabarcelona
vinotecabh
Fashion
Tory Burch
Romanticism defines the FW18 Mood “From Lee Radziwill’s effortless style to a field of carnations inspired by the drama of Pina Bausch’s Nelken… Romanticism defines the Fall/Winter 2018 mood. Feminine layers mixed with classic tailoring, a modern take on chintz, and contrasts of texture and print. Accessories carry these ideas through in bags and pointytoe shoes.” - Tory Burch Available in City Centre.
BD 201.5
BD 490
BD 337
Michael Kors
Introduces Sterling Silver Jewellery Michael Kors is pleased to announce the launch of a new jewelry collection made from sterling silver, semi-precious stones, sparkling accents and luxe plating in 14-karat gold, rose gold and rhodium. Rich in detail and designed with a timeless sensibility, the collection offers seasonless, feminine necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings that can be worn separately or stacked together for versatile everyday wear. Available in City Centre.
BD 103
24 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
BD 94
YA •
L
O
U
N
G
E
•
Enjoy the Mediterranean fusion at our new indoor & outdoor lounge Weekdays: 5:00 pm – 2:00 am Weekends: 12:00 noon – 2:00 am
+973 1600 0099 yahalaamwajbah |
yahalaamwajbah
LET BRAZIL COME TO YOU Take a journey through our festive fare with live music & city skyline views from our roof top restaurant Opens from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am
+973 6631 6666 | Juffair Via Brasil Bahrain
viabrasilbah
Fashion
Valentino
Fall 2018
Novelty is what one is not familiar with. Novelty is the past, if discovered to remain in present times. The gaze traces the path; the eye detects and connects. Very Valentino. Glamour. Individualism. Hedonism. The values that have defined a decisive moment of the Maison, today. An exploration of the iconographies of the Maison’s archive: the tiger from 1967, the dragon from 1968, the snake from 1971. An extravagant bestiary: a change in perspective cadenced by pois, enlightened by crystals. Available in Moda Mall, price upon request.
Versace
Versace Watches introduces the medusa stud icon This new style is inspired by the “Tribute� Accessories Collection, making it immediately a musthave. Striking 3D Medusa studs stand out, characterizing the watch straps with the gazelocking Medusa. One by one, they embellish the long double tour strap crafted from elaphe skin, winding around the wrist with that daring, iconic style that is synonymous with everything Versace. Available in Moda Mall.
26 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
BD 450
Fashion
Paule Ka
Introduces a clean slate for Fall/Winter 2018 Paule Ka opens a new chapter with a definitive first stroke on a clean slate for Fall-Winter 2018, one that reads as a bridge thrown between heritage and future. This return to roots is a love letter to the Future. True to its original vision, the Paule Ka woman has her eyes firmly set forward. Symbolising the brand’s perpetual desire to dress a woman in her every day, and not some fantasy of her, Fall 2018 has been imagined as a complete wardrobe: from day to night. Not in stores yet.
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 27
Travel Bahrain Confidential's travel picks with Emirates Airline.
Divine Destinations Bali
E
mirates network of 161 destinations, in 86 countries connects travellers to some of the most fascinating cities and mesmerizing landscapes across the world. Of these destinations, we take a closer look at summer hotspots across Europe, Indian Ocean and South East Asia. From stunning architecture in Barcelona, to a spiritual journey in Bali, to picturesque scenery in Mauritius – there’s something for everyone this summer.
Mauritius
Phuket
Indian Ocean Mauritius Its white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and mountainous scenery makes Mauritius a post-card dream destination. The unique Indian Ocean Island offers volcanic peaks, fields of sugar cane and colonial towns. The people are friendly and come from a diverse background of Indian and Creole, with Dutch, French and British colonial influences. Emirates flies to Mauritius with two daily flights, all served by the iconic A380.
Bali Tokyo
28 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Bali is a peaceful, spiritual island where you can find lush rainforests, the best surfing beaches, mesmerizing Hindu temples, rice paddies and an exquisite foodie scene.
Travel
Europe
Rome
Barcelona
Prague This paradise island has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in Ubud – Balis’ artistic heart with culinary treats, traditional art and crafts, and incredible spas. Visit the most sacred temple, Uluwatu, burrowed on a clifftop where you can watch the sunset. Emirates brings the world closer to this paradise island with two flights daily to Bali.
Phuket Phuket is one of the most popular destinations within Thailand. Its turquoise waters and mesmerizing beaches make it an ideal holiday destination for many. Those seeking a more laid back holiday can enjoy water sports, diving, fishing, sailing and snorkelling as well as visiting various attractions including Phuket Aquarium, Dino Park and Phuket Fantasea. Emirates operates two flights daily to Phuket.
Tokyo Tokyo is a fascinating place. The “Eastern Capital” is a vibrant, metropolis city. Here you will find some of the world’s best dining experiences, shopping centres, contemporary architecture, mixed with history and tradition. The busy capital mixes the old and new, the traditional and ultramodern. You’ll find everything from large skyscrapers to charming, historic temples. Emirates connects the world to Tokyo with a daily flight to Tokyo Narita International Airport using its A380 and a daily flight to Tokyo Haneda Airport.
Edinburgh
Barcelona Barcelona is the capital and largest city of Catalonia and the most avant-garde city in Spain. It is a city of culture, art, architecture and the home of FC Barcelona’s football team. From its captivating Antoni Gaudi architecture, luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, designer boutiques, more than 4 km coastline of thriving beach – Barcelona has something for everyone. Emirates flies to Barcelona with two daily flights, both serviced by the iconic A380.
Prague Prague is the capital city of Czech Republic. Nicknamed the “city of hundred spires” – it is known for its Old Town Square, well-designed spires, colourful buildings, Gothic churches and medieval astronomical clock, which has been working continuously since the 15th century. Emirates operates 2 daily flights to Prague, one of which is served by the A380 double-decker.
Rome For those searching for the sweet life – La Dolce Vita – look no further than Rome. Dubbed the Eternal City, it is the oldest city established almost 3,000 years ago, with a UNESCO World Heritage Site centre. Travellers are inspired by its charm, history, beauty, culture and sprawling city life. Emirates flies to Rome three times daily.
Edinburgh Steeped in rich history, Edinburgh is famed for its culture, creativity, architectural attractions, gourmet food scene as well as international festivals. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town – making the hilly Scottish capital the second most visited city in the United Kingdom. Edinburgh is the first city in the world to be designated as a UNESCO City of Literature. Emirates will start a daily service to Edinburgh utilising a Boeing 777-300ER on 1 October.
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 29
Feature
The Master Origin Collection Five new taste sensations mastered by craftsmen, inspired by the land.
W
hat happens when five incredible landscapes come together with five specialised processes, all orchestrated hand in hand with local coffee farming experts? The result is the new Master Origin collection from Nespresso – five distinct coffee sensations all inspired by the land.
Each of the Master Origin coffees has been on a unique journey of discovery. The Nespresso coffee experts scoured the world to discover the finest coffee sourcing regions, from the forested mountains of Sumatra through to the highland vales of Nicaragua. Within each selected region, Nespresso formed a partnership with the local farming experts and embarked on a mission to test innovative and demanding farming practices, all with the goal of crafting incredible new coffee aromas and tastes.
30 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Feature In Ethiopia, the coffee beans had a meticulous raking every hour by hand to ensure even drying. In Colombia, the typical harvest time was pushed to the limit – each coffee cherry was left on the tree, risking fermentation, until it was exactly the right shade of deep purple to be picked. Over in Sumatra, Indonesia, farmers used a traditional and exceptionally local wet-hulling method, whilst in Nicaragua, a sweet approach was taken, using the ‘black honey’ method which involves leaving the coffee bean in its natural fruit layer whilst it is drying allowing the coffee bean to soak up the natural sugars. The coffee sourced in India experienced an age-old ‘monsoon’ technique that was once a natural occurrence when coffee, transported via boat, took on a high level of moisture from the ocean, making the beans swell and reveal a unique new flavour. For the Master Origin India, this process was brought into the 21st Century and Robusta beans were ‘monsooned’ rather than the more typical Arabica.
Nespresso formed a partnership with the local farming experts and embarked on a mission to test innovative and demanding farming practices. Karsten Ranitzsch, Head of Coffee at Nespresso explained: “Processing techniques play a hugely important role in the final coffee profile and with the Master Origin coffees we wanted to toy with this idea and see how we could use a mix of traditional, new and adapted methods to produce five distinct and original coffees. Together with the local farmers, we took risks and challenged ourselves, only made possible thanks to the mutual trust and support built by the Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality™ Program.”
Introducing Nespresso Master Origin Master Origin Indonesia Flavour profile: Rich & Woody Processing technique: Wet hulling The constant humidity in Sumatra has led farmers to hull their beans when still wet, creating a distinctly rich, velvety texture and wild, woody taste.
Master Origin Ethiopia Flavour profile: Flowery & Bright Processing technique: Natural dry processing The local farmers in Ethiopia have perfected the ancient dry-processing technique over many years, drying their whole coffee cherries in the highland sun to cultivate delicate fruity flavours.
Master Origin India Flavour profile: Intense & Spicy Processing technique: Monsoon The powerful wet monsoon winds sweep into India’s Malabar coasts for months. Our partner farmers harness their power to cultivate a coffee of incredible intensity.
Master Origin Nicaragua Flavour profile: Sweet & Harmonious Processing technique: Black honey In the highland vales of Nicaragua, our black honey coffee is hand raked every hour under the hot sun to absorb the sweet flavours from its fruit.
Master Origin Colombia Flavour profile: Fruity & Vibrant Processing technique: Late harvest We introduced the late-harvest technique to the high forests and rolling hills of Colombia. The coffee is left to mature on the branch much later, and with each new day that dawns, each individual cherry must be assessed and picked only if it’s perfectly ready. n
Nespresso Master Origin coffee range will be available from 6 September 2018 and can be pruchased from Nespresso Boutique, Level 1 Bahrain City Center, Nespresso Booth, Gate 5, Seef Mall, Custome Care Tollfree 8000 1999 or online at www.buynespresso.com/bh/en
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 31
Influencers
Managing Stress Many of us waste unnecessary time dealing with the after-effects of bad stress in our life. In some instances, good stress is healthy for us, and can get us moving in the intended direction of our dreams, but if you’re often feeling; maxed out, tired, angry, low motivation, aches and pains, low energy, then chances are you need to re-evaluate life and how you currently do it before it gets the better of you. Years ago in London, while at a dinner, I was sat next to a freelance photographer. He shared with me a story about an elderly Buddhist monk he had befriended at Heathrow airport whilst they both waited to board a flight to New York. Curious to learn why a Buddhist monk was going to such an urban place like Manhattan, he struck up a conversation. The monk said he’d been invited to participate in a research project on his alarmingly good health at such a ripe old age. The photographer asked the monk, why did he think he had lived so long, and so healthfully. The monk suggested he thought it was due to a life lived free or low in stress. His life philosophy that nothing was off limits, but anything to excess or intoxication was not ideal. Therefore, if he enjoyed one cigarette and the act of having only one reduced his stress levels, then it was beneficial to his overall health and wellbeing. The photographer offered to take some headshots of the monk in Central Park as a gift and when the photographs were ready for delivery, he tried to contact the monk to make necessary arrangements. Sadly, the monk’s had passed away according to his travel companion. He’d speculated the monk had died, due to his environmental stress, whilst staying in New York City. Here are suggestions to reduce or eliminate your own stress levels: • Create space in your schedule • Manage your environment • Prioritise sleep • Reduce or eliminate multitasking • Be active • Have fun • Get rid of the need for perfection • Be of service to others (especially those in need) n
Robyn Law
Robyn Law is an Australian living in the Middle East, raising her family abroad. Passionate about selftransformation and living “her best life!” Find her at robynjlaw.com www.robynjlaw.com
32 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Euro Motors hosted the launch of BMW X4 at the Euro Motors showroom, Sitra
Feature
More than just a
Golf Course…
T
he Royal Golf Club is known for its 18-hole championship green golf course designed by international golfing legend Colin Montgomerie. But for those non-golfers out there did you know the Royal Golf Club has a lot more to offer than its manicured grass.
The Club House The iconic three-storey club house at the Royal Golf Club was designed in a traditional Arabic style and features an eye-catching wind tower design as its centerpiece. The building houses an impressive range of dining options which are much enjoyed by golfers and visitors alike as well as a well-equipped golf and leisure shop, luxurious shower and changing facilities, adaptable meeting rooms and The Majlis, a spacious function suite. The golf shop is home to the most comprehensive range of golf equipment and apparel in the Kingdom of Bahrain with over 30 leading brands in stock. Some of the world's premier golf hardware manufacturers are promoted using the store-withina-store concept and there is always a Golf Professional at hand if customers need expert help and advice, whether they are investing in a new putter or an entire set of golf clubs. With clothing and accessories in stock from top brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren and Oakley, it's not only golfers who enjoy the unparalleled array of goods available.
Dining at the Royal Golf Club The iconic Royal Club House offers a range of dining options to suit all tastes, from fine dining in the award winning Links restaurant, relaxed family fun in Masbah Pizzeria to our laid back sports bar: Repartee.
Special Occasions The Royal Golf Club is Bahrain's most beautiful and exclusive venue for special occasions such as weddings, conferences and banquets. No where else on the island is it possible to hold a function that offers unrivalled panoramic views of grass-covered scenery and sparkling blue lakes. Our team of highly qualified food & beverage staff are dedicated to providing world class customer service along with exquisite cuisine to guarantee unforgettable experiences for our guests at a truly unique venue.
The Royal Country Club Adjoining the Royal Golf Club’s club house is the brand new Royal Country Club whose state-of-the-art indoor facilities include ladies and gents’ gymnasiums, a fitness studio, steam room and sauna facilities (male and female) and changing rooms and lockers. The Royal Country Club boasts a team of fitness experts who deliver one-on-one personal training sessions as well as conducting a broad calendar of group classes including yoga, boot camp and circuit training. n For further information about the Royal Golf Club, please visit www.theroyalgolfclub.com
34 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Influencers
Tips for eating in Bahrain... The first question most people ask are what are the essentials to try in Bahrain. So here are my 3 must-try meals to try: 1. Everyone knows about the delicious shawarma’s available here, but what they don’t know is that there are even better lamb chops. Riyash, as they are locally called, are marinated in a distinct black lemon flavour and cooked to perfection. Stop by a number of local tikka places and they will have lamb chops on the menu. You can order by the dinars worth and what will be served to you is a parcel of freshly baked local khobz bread with around 4 lamb chops tucked inside and some herby ‘bagal’, which is a cross between a chive and a spring onion. You’ll want to make room for the bread, which is perfect for mopping up the meat juice. 2. A traditional Bahraini breakfast is a must-have and over time you might even find it replacing your craving for a fry-up on Friday mornings. Stop by many local eateries for this, including Haji’s, Saffron or Emmawash. You’ll be given an array of dishes including ‘balaleet’ a sweet vermicelli noodle with eggs on top, a herby fava bean mixture called ‘foul medames’, spicy home-made baked beans called ‘louba’, a local staple of scrambled eggs mixed with plenty of tomato and of course lots of freshly baked ‘khobz’ breads. A breakfast like this will normally set you back only a 3 to 4 BD, a bargain for all the feasting you will be doing! 3. We’ve dealt with what to eat, but what should you drink when in Bahrain. Easily one of the most popular drinks is Karak chai. This sweet tea is a staple in homes, offices and cafes and has a spiced aroma from the cardamom flavour. If you try karak and love it as much as we do then, grab a jug and head to the many karak shops for them to fill it up for about 1 bd and take it with you back to your home or office. Watching your sugar intake? Just ask for it to be a bit less sweetened. n
Follow fifi’s foodie explorations on @hungry_fifi Hun
gry Fifi
Email her any food questions to answer here on fifi@hungryfifi.com
36 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital held an event in celebration of the World Osteoporosis Day
Feature
One Million Jobs Careem's Global Network of Captains Hits One Million.
C
areem has officially announced surpassing one million captains on their platform. Careem, the region’s leading ride-hailing app and only tech unicorn with presence in more than 100 cities across 14 countries is now one of the biggest tech job creators in the region. The company set a target to have one million Captains and Captainahs on its platform by 2018 and earlier this month they announced they achieved this target one quarter early. Careem is said to be creating between 60,000 and 70,000 jobs per month across its regional footprint. Captains and Captainahs (which is a title Careem has given to all their drivers, as a form of respect) are the bloodline of the organization and have a range of programs across the network to help boost their morale and growth. “We are humbled about achieving our target of creating one million jobs in the region,” Mudassir Sheikha, CEO & Cofounder of Careem said. “We started Careem with a mission to simplify and improve the lives of people. Whilst we wanted to solve local problems with reliable transportation and help people get from A to B, we also wanted to address the high rate of unemployment. We truly believe that our region has untapped potential and resources, and our expansion to 100+ cities in under six years is
38 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Feature testament to that. So four years ago, we set ourselves a target of creating one million jobs and here we are.” Careem’s strategy when hiring Captains is to invest in their long term wellbeing. This means training them on their day to day services as well as beyond the car. To ensure this is successful, the company has created a special Captain Experience team dedicated to understanding the needs of Captains across the network. Caeem has also introduced a new “Taskforce program” with the help of some of their top ranked and longest serving Captains in a bid to increase the quality of rides regionally. Selected Captains in the force will be tasked with carrying out routine and random checks on their fellow Captains and providing them with feedback and mentoring on how they can improve. As part of its commitment to safety and security, Careem also provides its Captains with health insurance schemes and inride insurance. Captain Faisal Saleh from Hail in Saudi Arabia was the one millionth person to sign up to Careem. n www.careem.com @careembah
We are humbled about achieving our target of creating one million jobs in the region.
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 39
Feature
Future Mobility Euro Motors demonstrates Innovative BMW i8 to students at St. Christopher’s Senior School.
A
s part of its ongoing commitment in interacting with the Bahraini community and showcasing the latest in future mobility, Euro Motors held an educational workshop at St Christopher’s School to demonstrate the superlative BMW i8’s technological advancement and precise functional designing. A large turnout of students attended to learn more about BMW’s visionary model, from backgrounds ranging from DT (Design Technology), Geography, Business Studies, Computer Science and Art. The three-hour interactive workshop was presented by Ahmed Muaraj, the BMW Product Genius at Euro Motors. Muaraj shared a detailed understanding on how the BMW i8 is based on efficiency, along with demonstrating the charging port and the technical aspects of the model which would be relevant for the student’s curriculum.
40 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Feature Commenting on the event, Rashid Z. Alzayani, the BMW and MINI Marketing Manager of Euro Motors said: “We are proud to witness the strong interest and curiosity from all the students who attended our workshop. The BMW i8 resembles a strong foretaste on how our future in mobility will look like, and we’re glad we had the opportunity to the future generation reflect on the change they’ll be witnessing as they grow into professionals in their respective fields.” Since its launch in 2014 the BMW i8 is the world’s highest-selling plug-in hybrid sports car. It also undergoes an all-embracing sustainability concept, running throughout the entire value chain of the BMW i8; carbon fibre production and vehicle assembly using 100-per cent renewable electricity; high proportion of recycled materials; use of materials manufactured and treated in an environmentally friendly manner. n
8 cool facts about the BMW i8
We are proud to witness the strong interest and curiosity from all the students who attended our workshop.
1. It’s the first sports car with the consumption and emission values of a compact car. 2. It can go from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds. 3. It can drive up to 250 km/h. 4. The car’s battery charges not only when plugged in, but also when braking. 5. The i8 battery only requires 3.5 hours to become fully charged. 6. The car has a 1.5 litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine. 7. The interior leather is tanned with olive leaf extract to avoid less environmentally friendly materials. 8. It’s doors are called scissor doors, they hinge in the front, opening upwards.
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 41
Advertorial
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The Flagship
Providing a new level in residential facilities…
Brilliantly appointed kids’ play area…
Much more than just a fabulous location… Perfectly situated immediately next to the five star ART Rotana Hotel and within walking distance of the various restaurants, cafes, supermarkets and other amenities at The Lagoon in Amwaj, The Flagship could not be better located. Among other things, residents also benefit from outstanding sea views and close proximity to the airport. As important to its tenants are the The Flagship’s fabulous facilities…
Temperature controlled swimming pool… Each time we visit the building, residents of The Flagship always highlight the sizeable temperature controlled swimming pool. Unlike almost all other residential buildings in Bahrain, it offers tenants an all-year-round swimming facility, perfectly designed for families and more serious swimmers alike (one of the most common complaints we come across from tenants in other buildings is that the swimming facilities are only useable for 4 moths of the year). In addition, The Flagship pooldeck provides a perfect space for evening BBQs and sun-downers overlooking the sea… a great way to start the weekend!
42 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Fully kitted gym… The Flagship’s immaculate gym compares favourably with many hotel gyms in offering a wide selection of outstanding Precor equipment suitable for any regular gym visitor. The layout of equipment is professionally organised by muscle group and there is plenty of space for mat-work exercise.
The well-used and muchloved kids’ play area is superb. Offering, among other things, slides, a Wendy house, climbing pyramid and various soft-tumble equipment, it has become one of the most frequently visited facilities at The Flagship. The parents we have spoken to typically compliment it as a fun and safe environment for children to exercise and play, unimpeded by space restrictions. It is also great to see a kids’ play area that is well-used, with children from different families regularly meeting and interacting.
Building No. 2793 Road 5722, Amwaj 0257 Kingdom of Bahrain Tel. +973 1311 5566 Mob. +973 3904 2250 E.mail: flagship@exibah.com www.theflagshipamwaj.com
Come home to an outstanding living experience at The Flagship.
• Experienced & committed on-site management • 24 hour front desk/ reception • 24 hour on-site maintenance • Family friendly • Outstanding gym • Multiple tenant benefits
P.O. Box 10494 Building No. 2793 Road 5722, Amwaj 0257 Kingdom of Bahrain Tel. +973 1311 5566 Mob. +973 3904 2250 E.mail: flagship@exibah.com
Influencers
Intermittent fasting, weight loss, diets, and exercise Intermittent Fasting (IF) is one of the most popular buzz words in the fitness world. Intermittent Fasting is not so much about eating less or cutting out calories but more about timing meals in such a way that you eat all your calories within your eating window. Here’s how you can see results — weight loss and fat loss — with intermittent fasting. The most popular way of IF is the 16:8 method, where you fast for 16 hours and eat in the 8-hour window. Recently, Max Weber, a fitness trainer (with over a 74.1k followers on Instagram) shared a few tips on how to do IF for fat burn. “You will have an 8-hour eating window — typically from 12pm until 8pm or 2pm until 10pm, depending on personal preference and schedule. You can eat as many or as little meals as you’d like, so long as you are adhering to your total daily calorie intake goals and your macros. However, 2-3 meals are likely a good bet,” he wrote. In his post he also answered frequently asked questions about intermittent fasting. For instance, many people are curious to know where IF should be followed every single day. “Personally, I like IF on a more daily basis, so I can build the habits necessary to stay consistent with the plan. However, it’s alright if you don’t follow IF every day. What matters most is calories in vs. calories out, not when you’re eating or not eating,” he wrote. Another popular query on this fasting method is about the timing of workout. Weber says, “Workout as close to the start of your eating window as you can. If not, consider BCAAs or adjusting to non-fasting based meal timing strategy.”
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Lastly, does IF guarantee fat loss? “Yes,” he says, adding, “However, you still need to be consuming fewer calories than you are burning each day to lose fat. IF might make this easier when dieting, so give it a shot and see.” n
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Mahmoud has 18 years of field expertise in nutrition, strength training, bodybuilding, aerobic conditioning, functional & sports specific training, and designing personal training programmes for clients, For a FREE Fitness Assessment Phone: +973 6633 5504 E- Mail: mahmoudbodyfit @Yahoo.com
44 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Intercontinental Regency hosts a memorable pool party by Elements Pool and Longue
Going Out
Gulf Hotels Group announces the soft opening of its first UAE hotel!
Soft Opening
G
ulf Hotels Group (GHG), Bahrain’s leading homegrown hospitality provider, today announced the soft opening of its first UAE property, The Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay. The opening is the first phase of GHG’s expansion plan across the region. The four-star deluxe hotel offers a total of 270 rooms, with 48 standard rooms, 39 superior rooms, 92 deluxe rooms, 60 grand deluxe rooms, 25 executive suites, 4 luxury suites and 2 penthouse suites, which overlook the Dubai Water Canal. Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay boasts fine-dining restaurants alongside impressive lounges and a grand banquet hall. Other facilities include meeting rooms, a swimming pool, fitness center and spa. The hotel also has a nightclub and karaoke room for both inhouse and public guests. Located 15 minutes away from Dubai International Airport, the hotel will cater to both business and leisure travellers. Its location is in close proximity to the central commercial and business district, and lends itself for easy access to Dubai Mall, while facing the world’s tallest building - both of which are 5 minutes’ drive. On August 1 2018, the hotel opened its doors to welcome its first guests. Mr. Abdulrahman Al Hujaylan and Mr Khalid Al Hujaylan were welcomed by the Group’s Director of Operations, Mr. Nils Axing; the Hotel’s General Manager, Mr. Marc Voller; and members of the hotel’s management team.
For more information: www.gulfcourthotelbusinessbay.com info@gulfcourthotelbusinessbay.com
46 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Taste exquisite cuisines from around the world at the Gulf Court Hotel, that boasts multiple dining restaurants such as: Café Delices – Indulge in delicious pastries, freshly baked cookies, exquisite macarons and homemade chocolates. Recharge with a cup of freshly brewed coffee and enjoy a sumptuous and healthy light lunch or order one of our specialty cakes custommade exclusively for you. Al Waha Restaurant – Offering you a sumptuous array of international and local cuisines. Indulge in a variety of specialties and feel the burning passion of our chef with mouthwatering dishes. Naisa Oriental Restaurant – Naisa is an oasis of contemporary Asian cuisine served in a fine dining setting. Treat yourself to some of the impressively authentic and exquisite dishes. The Other Office Karaoke Bar – An open social lounge area with a full bar and karaoke, plus a 70” plasma TV and 5 stylish private karaoke rooms in different sizes. Step up, take the stage and sing the night away at ‘The Other Office’. Sky Bar – The bar combines quality food, drinks and eclectic entertainment. In addition to the lively sports bar providing an exciting atmosphere, the Sky Bar is the ideal place where you can enjoy mouthwatering bites and thirst-quenching drinks while cheering on your favourite team. The Canal Lounge – Breathtaking is the only word to describe The Canal Lounge. The lounge and terrace serves quality food, drinks and entertainment with an awe-inspiring view of the Dubai cityscape. n
Galleria Mall - Zinj Open from 12 pm - 12 am
+973 17 502 000 mewarrestaurant.com
mewarrestaurant
Feature
HUAWEI releases the HUAWEI nova 3 with jampacked specifications and innovative Artificial Intelligence powered cameras.
AI
Innovation Bahrain Confidential has been able to get their hands on the HUAWEI nova 3, HUAWEI’s most recent released phone here in Bahrain.
Impressive Design The slim device sports a 5.84 inch full HD+ 2.5D curved screen that gives crisp and detailed screen resolution. The screen has notches on top, a trend most phones are taking up now. The maximization of the size of it’s screen is perfect for watching movies or just looking at the pictures its incredible cameras take. It runs Android 8.0 Oreo and has 4GB Ram and 64gb internal storage with expandable memory of up to 256GB. The fingerprint sensor sits at the back slightly beside the camera. HUAWEI shows their commitment to customers with their upcoming EMUI update that comes with GPU Turbo upgrade, an update that will improve CPU performance and battery consumption. HUAWEI gives the assurance that your device will continually be optimized.
48 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Feature It’s an incredibly packed phone for a midrange price, capable of smoothly running high performance apps and games. Although its sleek look, price, processing power, or beautiful screen are enough on their own to warrant this phone special, the highlight is the amazing innovation HUAWEI has put in its camera.
AI Master Artificial Intelligence (AI) – powered cameras is what makes this phone special. The HUAWEI nova 3 boasts 4 cameras - 24 MP + 2 MP dual AI selfie cameras on the front, and 24 MP + 16 MP rear dual cameras. The cameras are perfect for taking photographs of everything, from landscapes to selfie portraits. Its camera instantly recognizes more than 200 scenarios across eight categories including Blue Sky, Beach, Plants, Night, Stage, and
Flower. Its camera automatically optimizes the the background for clarity and applies beautification to the subject of focus. Both cameras work simultaneously, the 24MP cam taking in the whole subject and background while the secondary syncs and enhances the background and subject more, allowing you to take the most detailed photographs. The camera is nothing short of great for food reviews or events. It assures that there is focus on both the subject, either people or objects, and the background setting. A characteristic that’s perfect for capturing both that mouth-watering steak and the ambience the restaurant you’re at in one picture. Or at the party you’re planning to go to right now, take a picture of the people enjoying while having the DJ and the bar lights detailed at the background.
Selfie Superstar Looking to the front camera, its specifications are not far from the main one. It’s portrait mode focuses to change the way portrait mode is used. Regular phones use a bokeh effect, focusing on the subject while blurring the background. This gives superior clarity on the subject but, unfortunately, leaves the background insignificant. With HUAWEI’s AI powered cameras, that is no longer a problem. You can now take incredibly crisp selfies without deprioritizing the stunning background you are in. Taking selfies now shows off the stunning beach you went to last summer or the peaceful mountainside you went hiking at alongside your beautiful smile. Group selfies also take in everyone of your family or friends in detail, enjoying a relaxing lunch at that restaurant with impeccable interior design or just chilling and catching up at your favourite café. The HUAWEI nova 3 front cam will always get you the best of both worlds.
Although its sleek look, price, processing power, or beautiful screen are enough on their own to warrant this phone special, the highlight is the amazing innovation HUAWEI has put in its camera.
With its jam-packed specs and innovative camera, the HUAWEI nova 3 is going to be a consumer favorite considering its reasonable price. The final icing on the cake is that it comes in 4 different colors. Pick your preference from from Iris Purple, Airy Blue and Black., all having a dazzling light texture that gives the colors a water ripple effect. Photography enthusiasts or gaming individuals alike will definitely be satisfied with this superb phone’s performance. n
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 49
Society
Latest Events Photos at Bahrain-Confidential.com
Ramada Hotel and Suit Amwaj hosts media dinner at the newly opened restaurant and lounge, Ya Hala
50 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Talabat hosted their Camaro Prize Shoutout Event at National Motors
Feature
Cosy Place Retail giant IKEA is soon to open in Bahrain, here are some facts to know about…
W
hat will be unique & different about IKEA Bahrain store as compared to others in the region?
Our first IKEA store in Bahrain is set up on an area of 37,000 square meters making it the largest IKEA in the region. Besides this, we will also house the biggest restaurant in the Kingdom with a capacity of 650 seats. Overall, IKEA Bahrain will house a 6,200 square meter showroom, a 6,000 square meter market hall for accessories, 5,000 square meters self-serve area, and 4,000 square meters full-serve area. The bistro and Swedish food market will take up about 500 square meters of the total area. The prominent free of charge play facility called ‘Smaland’ will take up a space of 220 square meters while the indoor 1,000 parking spaces will be spread over two levels. In addition to 1000 indoor parking space, there will be 200 outdoor spaces.
How many products and services will be on offer at the opening? At the time of the opening, consumers can expect to see over 7500 products ranging from specialty home accessories to huge home furnishings such as beds, sofas and kitchens. In order to create & complete an enjoyable customer experience, we have implemented a series of services starting off with the bistro service for our hungry customers and a free of charge play area for children. To complete the shopping experience, IKEA will be providing additional services such as Product pick-up, Home
52 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
delivery, Planning, Return & Exchange, Assembling & Installation services, and Online Sales Support.
How would you describe the store experience? We offer a fun day out for the whole family. We have a range of around 7500 products; 50 inspirational room settings, 3 model home interiors, a supervised children’s play facility and a 650 restaurant seats.
Does IKEA have an ICT and new media strategy to connect and engage with its customers? Bahrain holds one of the highest digital penetrations in the MENA region. While our commitment to digital is increasing, we are currently focused on building awareness about the brand as well as the opening of our first store in the Kingdom. Having said that, we have developed & implemented futuristic solutions for our other regional stores and would be implementing the same in the near future in Bahrain.
What about online shopping/ virtual store and mobile applications? IKEA is making great strides in the area of online shopping & mobile applications. Digital would assist in simplifying the customer decision making, shopping, and assembly experience. And while we are excited about the implications of this and the future it holds for IKEA Bahrain, as communicated earlier, we are nonetheless focused on the opening of the store and would consider implementing the same in the near future. n
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Feature
Maintaining Reputation A look into the biggest and most anticipated convention center in Bahrain.
Mr. Charbel Hanna
M
r, Charbel Hanna, Executive Assitant Manager of The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa talks of the ongoing renovations happening and what we can expect to see from the renowned hotel these coming months.
What’s your vision for The Gulf Hotel Convention & Spa? The Gulf Hotel Convention and Spa is a legendary five-star hotel in Bahrain and we have kept this reputation for 50 years. With all the new hotels that are being built, we have maintained our position in the market through the consistency of our service and products that we are offering and we shall continue to remain and be renowned.
What do you see as the most significant strengths for this property? We offer the largest hotel facilities especially in food and beverages. The company is also ready to take measurable risks whenever the opportunity arises and is fast in execution. Our facilities and products are well-known for it’s quality and we have maintained it so for the past 50 years, well deserving for the fivestar status that we hold.
Tell us more about your recent GCC renovation. What did you plan to achieve in this? We will be launching the new Gulf Convention Center in October
54 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
2018. There are many places to conduct meetings and functions but Gulf Hotel Convention Center is the largest and most popular place. It has undergone extensive changes, modernization and refurbishment with costs crossing BD 5 million. It will undoubtedly be Bahrain’s best Convention Center with the capacity to cater up to three thousand and five hundred people.
What’s new at The Gulf Hotel? What should we look forward to? There are a lot to look forward to at The Gulf Hotel. Following the announcement of the partnership with Michelin-Star Chef Giancarlo Perbellini, we will relaunch the La Pergola Restaurant with a new, “La Pergola by Perbellini”. La Pergola Restaurant undergoes a full renovation with new design, colors, concept and it will be open to the public on 9th September, 2018. Al Waha Restaurant is also under renovation and part of its relaunch in September is the Gulf Grand Brunch. Bahrain’s favorite buffet restaurant is getting bigger and better with extended seating and a new design that boasts state of the art temperature control buffet counters, an interactive live kitchen, Juice bar, saj bread station and much more. And of course the New Gulf Convention Center that has undergone a complete renovation and will open in October. The new contemporary design suits all types of market requirements, furnished with the finest equipment from chinawares, cutleries, linen, tables & chairs. n
Feature
We talk to GM Vijayan Sadanandan about The Arch’s futuristic architecture along with his ideals in managing hospitality.
GM Vijayan Sadanandan
Futuristic
Beacon W
ith stylish exteriors and matching modern interiors, The Arch Hotel is an iconic hotel extending the best of hospitality to all patrons from all over the world. Having recently opened last July, it is already setting standards in Juffair’s hospitality scene. Located only 15 minutes away from the Bahrain International Airport, The Arch Hotel is ideal for long-term stays, business trips, and holidays. With tasteful design and topnotch facilities, the 117 room and suites prove to be a haven of relaxation for different kinds of travellers. General Manager Vijayan Sadanandan shares that the new hotel has eclectic amenities that set them apart from the rest. GM Vijayan, who has almost two decades of experience under his name, expresses his belief in the importance of team work for success. According to him, each of The Arch Hotel’s team member has been hand-picked to ensure the best possible service
56 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
given to the guests. Although he’s very handson when it comes to floor operations, he also leaves room for his team to spark innovation and creativity – ideas that when implemented, boost morale for the crew and enhance experience for the guests. The remarkable hotel boasts amenities to satisfy the leisure of its guests including noteworthy outlets like Sol Café, Tex Mex Lounge, E11even Club, Posh Lounge and Fizz. Its gym and health club is fully-equipped with an outdoor swimming pool and sauna. Rejuvenation of the mind, body, and soul with Asian aromatherapy and similar treatments is available at their boutique spa, Aura. The hotel’s Cristal Hall, an elegant banquet space able to accommodate conferences, events, or personal celebrations for up to 120 people, will soon be open to reservations. Vijayan has always admired the architecture of The Arch Hotel. Its beauty always warrants a second look from passersby and its tenants alike. “The hotel does a wonderful job attracting customers with its structure, the staff and I guarantee the luxury of their stay.”. n
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Feature
Chef Vincenzo Nigro
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain takes us to Italy with the launch of its new menu.
Italy in Bahrain
T
he new Chef du Cuisine of Primavera, Vincenzo Nigro, talks about his travels around the world, his experiences in Michelin star restaurants and the highlights of the soon-to-be launched menu.
Can you tell us a bit of your background? I came from Mottola, a small town in the Puglia region from the south of Italy. I acquired my chef diploma after studying at the Istituto Professionale Mauro Perrone. Once I got that diploma, I started to travel the world – working in London, Switzerland, Australia, Maldives, Dubai and Russia. I have been very lucky to work with chefs that have Michelin star backgrounds and I always take the opportunity to work in Michelin-star restaurants when I have the time. I always push myself to learn something new and different about hospitality and the culinary arts. With that said, I’m very proud to be able to be the chef de cuisine here at Primavera alongside the consultancy of the two Michelin-starred Chef Oliver Glowig.
What do you enjoy most about living in Bahrain? Bahrain is a beautiful island, it’s a place where you can always enjoy the nice summer weather. It is a country with a lot of different people and cultures, it is a place where I can always learn something new.
58 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
What’s your philosophy when it comes to food? Authenticity. I try to keep the natural flavor and taste of the food I make and avoid mixing many ingredients in one dish. The guest has to understand what it is they’re eating.
What inspires you? How do you come up with ideas for the dishes? I take inspiration from the Michelin star chefs I get to meet and work with. I can always learn new things, new products, new combinations from them and then make new dishes from it. I also aspire to always leave a great memory for my guests when they dine in my restaurant.
Do you have a particular favourite in the menu? My favourite dish on the menu is the ravioli caprese, which really represents my country.
What’s new at Primavera? Part of the charm of this restaurant is the mix of what is familiar and what excites. In many ways, Primavera adheres to the very essence of its name - a sense of renewal and beginning, with food that is fresh and bright. The new menu includes favorites such as grilled octopus, homemade fresh fagotelli, seared tuna and delicious duet of vanilla and chocolate ice cream with coffee caramel. n
Manama, we’re coming. Book your spot for the rooftop opening party: +973 3351 4455 thealtolounge
25th floor, Downtown Rotana
People & Culture bottle for months before my parents found out. Of course, they kept a close watch on me after that, but it was a childhood indulgence.” The beverage in question is Ribena, a black-currant flavoured concentrate, found on most retail shelves back in the days. I don’t know if it’s still sold in the Kingdom but apparently, the manufacturers switched to artificial sweeteners and thickeners this year due to the ‘sugar-tax’, which has upset many fans. But that’s not what this column is about. This month I take a walk down memory lane, fondly remembering a few of the many Bahrain-based foods we 90s kids grew up enjoying and relish even today!
Sketch Credit: @vishallobo
BAH-BOMBAH Melissa Nazareth writes from her shores in Bombay to ours in Bahrain.
I
was talking to a friend who, like me, grew up in the 90s in Bahrain. We may have been discussing food when she asked, “What’s the name of that fruit-flavoured squash we drank as kids?” “Vimto?” I enquired. “No, there was another one. I used to down the syrup straight out of the
Melissa Nazareth Born in Bahrain, the author lived on the island for three decades before moving to Bombay. Though miles away, she finds ways to connect to her first home. @melnazareth @melissanazareth
60 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
I’m a compulsive snacker and Bahrain spoils you for choice with ‘meenus.’ Ask any millennial what ‘meenus’ are and they’ll give you a string of names right from Mario, Oman Chips and Sohar Chips through to Salad Chips, Pofaki, Fonzies – known back then as Twisties – and more. They’re the small packets stocked in cold stores as well as organised retail stores. Many of my school mates carried them to school for breaktime. I devoured two packets after lunch every day for many years. I truly miss them when I’m in Mumbai and make sure I hoard my favourites when I visit Bahrain from time to time. Mumbai does have its local trail mixes and Indian versions like Lays and Peppy but my loyalties remain with good ol’ Kari Kari. Do you remember the days when we could buy two ‘meenus’ and a tin of Pepsi for just 200 fils? It would be a sin to exclude shawarma from this list and rightly so but there’s another, less complicated local snack I’d like to
It’s amazing how some tastes and aromas can trigger memories of experiences from years back. talk about. One that my friend fondly remembers especially on cold, rainy days in Mumbai: the humble cheese khubz – warm, melted cheese smeared on oven-baked Arab-style flat bread. Is there anything more comforting? Cold winter days in Bahrain called for yet another treat sold at the hole-in-the-wall shops, the 90s chai karak shops – potato and pea samosas. Every worry right from homework to exams seemed to disappear eating these tiny (Bermuda) triangles. Team them with the legendary Kerala parotta and a hot mug of coffee, and nirvana is right around the corner! A number of articles have been written about food memories, how certain foods evoke strong emotions. It’s amazing how some tastes and aromas can trigger memories of experiences from years back. A daughter of the desert, I’m always looking for reasons to remember Bahrain and food seems to be the easiest way! n
David’s
Crazy Good, with wide variety of fresh and bold flavours. Crazy Hot, from China, Singapore, Cambodia to Vietnam, this delicious menu geographically covers quite a distance. Crazy Fresh, 100 percent made from scratch daily.
Located in Adliya (+973 1754 0188) and Riffa (+973 1776 0780) DavidsStirFryCrazyRestaurant DavidsStirFryCrazyRestaurant
Feature
Women in First Gear Yalla Banat, an awe-inspiring initiative for women by women, is coming to Bahrain this October!
Y
alla Banat is a
celebratory event created forman for the whole family across the ME region, aiming to inspire the next generation of women achievers and is highlighted to be the biggest festival for Women in the Middle East. The event will host the largest all-female car parade and the firstever female motor show in Bahrain. In addition, the initiative will give top female leaders and innovators a platform to share their success stories across the Middle East network. This will be held at the Bahrain International Circuit. The main highlights include a televised female round-table panel discussion panel featuring Regional achievers from across the GCC, the largest female car parade aiming for a record breaking 250 cars, the first ever female motor show in Bahrain. Leading up to the event there will be digital art & photograph competitions, held in partnership with well renowned Regional artists who will coach and judge who will announce and display the winning artworks at the Yalla Banat Art Gallery on the day of the event. Live performance by local artists and an even a display from the all women Bahrain Jujitsu Team. Other activities including road safety demos.
62 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
In addition to the latest fun activities at the kids’ zone, there will be an engagement activity including Bahraini tech and gaming startups showcasing their games for 6+ kids to play and creatively engage with their parents. In the same area, Yalla Banat has invited female entrepreneurs to showcase their local products in the Pop Up Market with various innovative new food trucks providing delicious snacks and food all within a gallery festival like setting. Yalla Banat has received and is grateful for the partners that have stepped forward to support Women Empowerment across the Region. Don’t forget to register, participate and connect! n www.yallabanat.me
@yallabanat_bahrain
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Influencers
Measuring Your Worth By now we have all heard of the incident that took place at the waterpark where two ladies were sexually assaulted while onlookers jeered and recorded. If this story upsets you, well done, you are a decent human being. If not, sit down, we have to talk. Now what was even more upsetting than the incident itself were some of the comments that followed (by ladies) after the video was released. It ranged from “they deserved it” to “they were to blame”. Victim blaming is a blemish on our society, a cancer that devours it from home soil, it gives birth to a world where perversions are allowed to flourish because victims are too scared to speak out against these atrocities, for fear of being blamed. We are teaching our girls that others have the right to touch us if our attire is not deemed appropriate, and our boys that a woman’s worth can be measured equal to the length of her dress. We as parents and influencers have a social responsibility to let the world know that this is not acceptable, and we will not tolerate it anymore. No longer can we be governed by a patriarchy that makes us turn our backs on our sisters in an hour where they need our shoulders. We need to get back to the root of this epidemic. Our homes. Let’s raise our kids with respect for themselves and others, with freedom of choice, and the inviolable knowledge that our bodies are only that, our own. What is ours does not automatically become yours if it is not covered by acres of cloth. Empathy is the fibers of humanity, sewn together by our daily interactions with our fellow human beings. We simply cannot allow the seams of the simple knowledge of right and wrong to be ripped out by an ignorant few. So instead of hitting the record button the next time you witness a violation of someone’s basic human rights, speak out and intervene, it’s the right thing to do. n
Inge uller M
Inge Muller is a mom and salon manager, enthusiastic about health, fitness, and writing.
64 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Media Event for LEGO Shows and ‘Cartoon Network Live! Heroes Unite’ Stage Show
Contributor and serviced the ‘Ironman Bahrain’ for the last 3 years, we are aware that a lot of Triathletes train here, many races and Shk Nasser’s other sporting challenges happen here, so the location seems ideal”, Eyad adds. He believes that Bahrain is being viewed as a health tourist destination and that they are a part of that. To begin with, they will offer Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic, various therapeutic massages, and Biokinetics which is quite unique in Bahrain. In addition, they will also be offering Acupuncture, Podiatry, Nutrition, Cranial Sacral, Lymphatic drainage, Aroma therapy, Strength and Conditioning, Stretching classes, Bike turbo classes and more. As always, the patients’ bodies will be addressed based on the day to day demands of their jobs. “It’s not just about fixing people’s problems, it’s also about educating and helping them manage and prevent injuries- that’s a big part. In the long run its about taking ownership and responsibility of your health and wellness” Lana says. Eyad considers that “The biggest asset of BeRehab are its practitioners and therapists – our team.” They offer handson manual therapy and their treatments towards each individual is tailor-made to suit their needs. With BeRehab, Physio Relief and Back on The Move, Lana believes that everything is available in Bahrain. With this, they would like to reinforce the concept of collaboration and share the same holistic approach to offer patients the bigger picture.
Dare to BE! Lana Peters and Eyad Fareed, founders of BeRehab, are set to provide something new in Bahrain.
O
ver the years, the advantage of complementary and alternative medicine has been subject to some debate in Bahrain. However, thanks to the National Health Regulatory Authority, this stream of healthcare has been recently endorsed and promoted.
Together in partnership, Lana Peters and Eyad Fareed, founders of BeRehab, are proud of just how far Bahrain has come in embracing the different modalities of healthcare in just a few short years. The new home-grown alternative medicine centre has set its flagship practise in the newly opened Zallaq Springs where they offer a base to service Riffa, Riffa Views, Hamad Town, Awali and other areas nearby. They are aiming at a midSeptember opening. According to Lana, the whole concept is to tweak the health model to collaborate mainstream and alternative medicine to offer a broader service by integration of multidisciplinary professionals both in-house and out-house. They intend to achieve that at BE Rehab. “A lifestyle is developing in Bahrain that revolves around sports and selfawareness, and Zallaq happens to be the hub of sporting activities. Having supported
“BE is motivational. I really believe life is about movement and moving forward. BE is how to be in life. BE anything you want to be, BE strong, BE flexible, BE well, BE responsible…” Lana says. “With BeRehab we want to send out a positive message, Rehab is about Rehab and BE is about being. To BE yourself and everything that you are. It’s about telling people to come back to yourself and BE well, BE healthy, BE strong.” Eyad continues. So what are you waiting for? Dare to BE!
Dr. Lana Peters Osteopath Dr. Eyad Fareed Physiotherapist, BeRehab
First Floor, Sunlight Plaza, Seef District, Bahrain Tel: +973 77 300 600, Mob: +973 3919 7480
Email: hello@backonthemove.com
www.backonthemove.com Bahrain Confidential April 2018 76
Health & Wellness
Ask HV Holistic Health… I’m planning to compete in my first Half Iron Man triathlon. What tips do you recommend for my training?
Jemma Answers: Swimming 1.9km, cycling 90km and running 21.1km, requires a good level of fitness in all three disciplines, and lots of dedication in training.
Training How long you will take to prepare depends on your current level of fitness however, if you're looking to get the best performance possible, I recommend a minimum of six months dedicated training. Spread your training equally though the week and pay extra attention to your weaknesses. Consistency and gradual progression is key, not only to improving your fitness but, in minimising the chance of injury. Sticking to a set training plan is important. Including brick sessions (where you run immediately after cycling), will prepare your legs for the transition in muscle burden, too. Joining a triathlon club can be an excellent way to help you stick to your training. Train in the kit that you intend to race in. You'll be swimming in the sea, so goggles with good visibility can be advantageous. Invest in the best clothing that can be worn throughout the race, including the swim. A one-piece triathlon suit with a supportive sports bra underneath, for ladies, is a good option. If you're new to cycling and concerned about wearing shoes with cleats, just consider that you achieve about 20% more efficiency per pedal rotation compared to normal shoes. That can make a huge difference to your performance, especially over a 90km distance.
Nutrition & hydration If you're not looking to lose a little weight while you're training, you will need to increase your calorie intake focussing on good
66 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
quality, low GI carbohydrates. It's not suggested to train on a low carb diet, because it increases cortisol levels in the body, and the body has to work harder to take energy from fat and protein - not ideal if you're trying to train hard. A light, high-carb meal is a good pre-workout meal for a steady release of energy. Remember, you will need to plan how to carry your fuel on race day. Sellotaping snacks to your handlebars is a good option, and refuelling on the bike is more practical than during the run. Make sure you have access to water AND sports drink with electrolytes, not simply one or the other so that you avoid cramps and serious dehydration issues.
Rest & recovery Rest is vital because this is when the muscles grow, and any inflammation surrounding the joints can reduce. Icing your muscles after a hard training session can reduce the amount of recovery time, and introducing stretching and yoga will prevent injury.
Mobility & stretching To optimise performance, stretch tight muscles and strengthen weak muscles. Getting a posture assessment will help. Strengthening your core will enhance your performance, too.
Injury By sticking to the plan and resting appropriately, you're unlikely to encounter too many injuries but, they do happen. Don’t train though an injury, and seek professional advice straight away. Infrared saunas help with muscle recovery, and speeds up the body’s natural healing process. n Send your questions to info@hvholistichealth.com or @hvholistic Jemma Lilburn Health & Wellness Practitioner HV Holistic Health & Corrective Training Tel: +973 1777 5544
Feature
Summer Surprises
J
ust recently, Talabat and Batelco had an exclusive partnership, giving its customers an opportunity to win an amazing array of prizes. Batelco Customers using Talabat to place their orders were automatically entered into weekly and monthly raffles which lasted until the 25th of August. Not only did the winners satiate their taste buds because they also bagged incredible items!
Ordering has never been this rewarding for Talabat users! Other Prizes
The weekly prizes included a 52” Sony Bravia smart TV, 40” TCL LED TV, Samsung Galaxy VR, Play Station 4 Pro, iPad Pro, iPhone X and an extra 200GB on the winner’s Batelco Broadband line. Meanwhile, two winners walked away with a brand new Chevrolet Camaro… how awesome was that? The recent ‘Order & Win’ competition has been very exciting for everyone who has been involved. Aside from rewarding customers for using their service, Talabat has continued to entice everybody with its exciting offers and promotions. Check out the list of winners on Talabat’s Instagram account and keep your eyes posted on their social media accounts for more offers! n Talabat is an online food ordering service that helps customers find restaurants in their area, filter by cuisine, browse menus and place their orders with an option of online payment or cash on delivery. Visit www.talabat.com/bahrain or download the Talabat App on iOS and Android devices. @talabatbh
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 67
People & Culture
Picture Perfect
Alana by Lee Crow
Bahrain Confidential shares a conversation with the mind behind ‘Bahrain Headshots’.
T
ell us something personal, what motivates you to get up in the morning?
I wish I could answer this question with something deep and profound. The truth is that I'm just a run of the mill guy who wants to be better today than he was yesterday. Every day yields new challenges and opportunities to learn (both professionally and with my family). I'm pretty sure that I have an addiction to learning new things. I'm up until 2AM most nights soaking up knowledge that pertains to my crafts and the need for sleep can annoy me. The thought of getting up and doing it all over again can sometimes keep me up even longer than intended.
What does photography mean to you? What first drew you to take photos? Photography combines technical ability with creativity and getting both sides of my brain fired up keeps me even keel. "Pride" is the word that comes to mind when I provide someone with a great experience. To be able to bring someone into my process who says "I don't take good pictures" and give them a finished product that makes them say
Lee Crow is a headshot and creative portrait photographer living in The Kingdom of Bahrain. As a member of Peter Hurley’s Headshot Crew he has achieved associate photographer status. He’s the only Headshot Crew Associate in Bahrain. www.bahrainheadshots.com E-mail: info@leecrow.com @bahrainheadshots
68 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
People & Culture "this is the best picture I've ever taken" - that's a skill that I love. It's not about my ego - it's about giving someone something unique.
mentors enough for everything that they have done for me. I've now been a member of the site for over 2 years and have been raised to associate status. Life is good!
What was the inspiration behind ‘Bahrain Headshots’?
While taking a photo, how important is it for you to connect with your subject?
Headshots are super important today with the role of social networking in the job search. A great (or horrible) headshot helps define a person's brand and is often the impetus for a good (or bad) first impression. Imagine that - you have the opportunity to make the absolute best first impression without ever meeting anyone. Talk about low stress! You have to own it though. Studies show that, when looking at pictures of people, impressions are made within 100 milliseconds. They also show that the opinions derived from these first impressions are not likely to change following a second impression (assuming you get that chance). Helping people look their absolute best on social media sites like LinkedIn and knowing that I have the potential to help their career in a positive way is inspires me.
If I fail to connect then I don't feel that I've captured my subject well the result just feels inauthentic. When it comes to my creative portraits we are able to take a session in many directions if there is a genuine connection. It isn't always easy and I don't believe it is
a skill that is ever truly mastered; but the process is a wonderful one. Two photographers that inspire me in this regard are Peter Hurley (for headshots) and Platon (for portraits). Both are off the charts with this component but for different reasons.
Do you have a favourite photograph? If yes, can you tell us what is it?
Before I ever heard of Peter Hurley I took a really close shot of a friend during a party. He hated the picture but there was something about it that I really liked. At the time it was easily my favorite shot I had ever taken. A year or so later I stumbled onto Peter's Headshot Crew website. The price was right and I decided to give it a shot. The Headshot Crew community is excellent and the people there are wonderful mentors. This tribe is exactly what I needed and I can't thank Peter and all the other
Choosing a favourite photograph of my own is really tough. Every shoot I get a little better and learn something new. I can always find something to improve on. My favourite photo always seems to be my next photo in this regard. If I were to look at other photographers, then I would say that my favourite portrait photographer is Platon and my favourite image of his is simply "all of them". It goes back to his ability to connect with his subjects and what he is able to pull out of them.
Which part of Bahrain is your favourite and why? I don't favour one part over any other. Bahrain is a wonderful place to live and I'm happy to call it home. The people, the friends, the food - all of these things that we experience here make for a really nice life. n
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 69
Top Pic
#BestInBahrain A picture is worth a thousand words. Here is this month’s best #BestInBahrain picture posted to our social media.
Photograph by Gulnur Coskuner Jasim 7,229 People Reached
375 Reactions, Comments & Shares
Keep sending us your #BestInBahrain photos for a chance to be featured!
70 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Going Out
Confidential
ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands
Going Out
ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands Are your children waking up early and excited to go back to school or are they having a hard time saying goodbye to their summer vacation? The ART Rotana Team had set their minds to make sure that the transition is done smoothly and nicely with an amusing fun filled Friday Brunch at Choices Terrace & restaurant. Kids below 6 years of age dine for free while kids up to 12 years of age are BD12++. Per person, BD25++ comes with drinks and juices while BD38++ comes with house beverages. The brunch will be on 14th September from 12:30pm to 4pm.
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 1600 0111
Downtown Rotana Manama Teatro Downtown knows how to turn Tuesday evenings into an infinite experience. Enjoy authentic
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Japanese delicacies and tempt your senses with the Infinite Sushi Night. Feast on all your family favourites such as Volcano Maki, Lobster Maki, Crispy California Maki, Rainbow Rolls, Yellow Fin Tuna Sashimi, Salmon Nigiri, and more throughout the evening for just BD15++ or BD22++ including unlimited drinks! Eat all you can every Tuesday from 6pm to 10pm.
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 1311 9999
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Feast on homemade delicacies prepared by Executive Chef Gyu Kim to “whet the appetite� for a successful school year at Bahrain Bay Kitchen International. Your little ones will adore the carnival ambience with photo-booths, face paintings, stilt walkers, balloon artists, and goody giveaways! Starts at BD25++/BD35++. Kids below 5 years of
Going Out age are free while BD12.5++ for kids up to 12. Serving hours are every Friday throughout September from 1pm to 4pm.
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 1711 5500
InterContinental Regency Bahrain Escape from the stress of the city and enjoy a unique moment in a green oasis in the heart of Manama. Drop by Elements Pool & Lounge and relax by the pool while sipping on signature cocktails and Shisha. Their newly created Tiki cocktails are a
must try! Join the groove of salsa nights while enjoying the vivid ambiance of the lively movements and get 50% off on Cuba Libre and Sangria every Friday between 8pm to 2am.
The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Make sure to stay turned to Al Waha Restaurant’s reopening as well as the grand opening of La Pergola by Perbillini. Meanwhile, Ladies can enjoy every Tuesday with a 50% off discount for all restaurants, lounges and spa excluding Rasoi by Vineet, which has a special set menu on the same day.
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 1771 3000
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Spice up your weekly brunch with a culinary journey around
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 1722 7777
Mexico during Saturday Brunch Fiesta at Cantina Kahlo. Enjoy authentic dishes, taco station, irresistible sweets and festive décor for BD20/35 per person. September 15 also celebrates Mexican Independence Day with lively atmosphere and expanded brunch options.
Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 1758 6499
Experience a unique medley of super succulent seafood delicacies and taste the freshest catch every Monday on Seafood Night at Al Murjan Ballroom.Their talented team of chefs will prepare your favourite catch, just the way you like it. Seafood Night starts at 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD24++ and BD29++ per person including unlimited selected wines, beers, and soft drinks.
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 1746 0017
Swiss-Belhotel Seef Swiss-Café offers a delicious Mediterranean lunch Sunday to Thursday from 12:30pm to 3pm. The buffet includes an array of starters, main dishes and desserts while guests can pick their favorite from a small selection of plated main courses. A dinner buffet is also available, International buffet from Saturday to Wednesday and Arabic Buffet at Thursdays and Fridays. Both start at 7pm up to 11pm. The lunch and dinner buffet is at BD6++ per person with 50% off for children between 6 and 12. Children under 6 are free, 2 children max for each paying adult.
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 6631 0000
The Royal Golf Club, Bahrain Diners can enjoy a fabulous array of tasty dishes delivered freshly cooked to their tables while enjoying spectacular golf course views and listening to live entertainment by Pastmasters. Thursday Night brunch is available in the award-winning Links restaurant every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm and costs just BD26++ per person inclusive of unlimited selected beverages and BD18++ without alcohol. All beverages are 50% off during Happy hours every day, from 5pm to 8pm.
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 1775 1262
Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain Every Friday at the Palm Lounge, experience vibrant flavors in the lavish Jazz Brunch buffet where talented chefs showcase a variety of world food, a number of live stations and a large selection of cocktails. This delicate experience is accompanied by a five-piece Jazz band which creates a dazzling ambiance for you to enjoy the Friday Jazz Brunch. The brunch is priced at BD25++/35++ and is available from 1pm to 5pm.
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 7770 7070
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 73
Going Out
Specials around the Week
New and exciting themed lunches array the buffet at Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana!
E
ntering Downtown Rotana’s Flavours on 2 Restaurant engulfs you in white marble, green woody jungle schemes and high pillars that’s brightly lighted by noon sun. The wall behind the buffet and cooking station has a word perfectly describing what this restaurant serves, “delicious”. If you haven’t gotten the news, Downtown Rotana has it special around the week with their new themed lunches! Being at the central business district, Flavours on 2 is the perfect place to enjoy lunch during work with friends and colleagues. The restaurant has seat arrangements for groups that can be shared by families or colleagues, and seats that can accommodate intimate lunch with a close friend or a business partner. ‘Baharat Spiced Sunday’ explores an array of traditional oriental
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Going Out food from choice mezze and main courses, baharat spice on different meats and seafoods. Their delicious homemade Ouzi is an essential in fully enjoying the feast.
Paella. There are also choice slices of meat and pastries alongside a section of cheeses to be enjoyed with the special slow-infused grape juice Sangria.
‘Asian Bowls Tuesday’, an eclectic selection of far Eastern cuisines and famed Asian street food such as stir fries, wok tossed and Teatro’s special sushi. There are fresh and tasty Sushi, Nigri, and California Rolls courtesy of Teatro’s sushi station. We could not be more enthusiastic and happy about their live sushi station! On another note, the stir-fried and wok tossed Thai and Chinese foods hinted the atmosphere with fragrant spices with dishes like Pad Thai and Kung Pao Chicken. Lastly, their Korean bibimbap is a must to try, fresh sliced vegetables and ground meat served with rice.
‘Pots. Pans. Boards.’ are all around for Thursday, indulge in lipsmacking bite size favourites in a rustic buffet look with lots of bake, roasts, and puffs. Fresh vegetable salads and chopped fruits alongside pies and pastries.
‘Vamos Wednesdays’ is the day to taste Spanish cuisines and it’s not only limited to the famous Tapas and the Spanish-staple
Their dessert collection, a chocolate fountain and ice cream station, is the perfect way to end your meal. All dishes are served hot and prepared from their live cooking stations, giving action on the ambient lunch setting. Flavours on 2 themed lunches start at 12:30pm to 3:30pm. For only BD 9.5++, you can enjoy a themed lunch for a chosen day in the week, or come visit and enjoy them all! n
Flavours on 2 is the perfect place to enjoy lunch during work with friends and colleagues.
For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 1311 9999
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 75
Going Out
Flavours of Mewar Bahrain Confidential experiences the royal art of Indian cuisine at Mewar.
A
t Mewar, you’ll find classic trendy infused flavoured Indian dishes prepared with fine-dining mastery, a remarkable atmosphere and even greater service standards. Mewar is the latest Indian Gourmanderie in town offering a regal tradition with modernity fit for its neo royal guests. Arriving at the classy restaurant, ceilings and walls adorned with elegant fixtures and opulent curtains welcomed us. While taking a quick tour, our eyes were delighted by the rich hues of red and teal complementing the seats. The place is uplifting with a friendly ambiance, making you feel relaxed and comfortable. We sipped our delicious welcome drinks and admired the surroundings. The menu is tempting and uniquely created, with a price tag that is remarkably reasonable. The restaurant boasts an eclectic menu but the real highlight was their set menu. A set menu costs BD20 which includes soup, starters, main course, dessert and drinks. We started our culinary journey with the warm ‘Dal Dhaniye ka Shorba’ or Curried Lentil Soup. The yummy concoction warmed our starving bellies while we waited for the rest of the course.
76 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Going Out For starters, we thoroughly enjoyed the ‘Kurkura Palak Chaat’. Crispy, crunchy and tangy – the chaat was downright addicting! One must definitely try the ‘Achari Paneer Tikka’ – this skewered starter is full of colour, fragrance and flavour. The all time favourite ‘Samosa Platter’ is also worth mentioning. Moving on to the best part, the main course. Unlike the usually dry and tough fare in other restaurants, Mewar’s ‘Grill Platter’ consists of mixed meats that are really tender and juicy. Assorted Naan breads are also available to complement the tasty dishes.
Open for lunch and dinner, Mewar offers tradition in a trendy place with inspired food presentations without sacrificing the originality. Being a staple dish at any Indian restaurant, we weren’t expecting anything special with the ‘Chicken Tikka Masala’. We were surprised with how succulent the chicken was! Its flavour was even elevated by the creamy and spiceinfused tomato sauce paired with steamed rice. When it comes down to their menu, you must not miss Mewar’s ‘Chicken Biryani and Raita’ for it will surely hit your taste buds with a surprise! To finish, we had the ‘Gulab Jamoon Saffron Cheesecake’ that we enjoyed more than we’d expected to. If you find the dishes too savoury for your liking, enjoy a cup of their lassi to balance out the flavours. Open for lunch and dinner, Mewar offers tradition in a trendy place with inspired food presentations without sacrificing the originality. Definitely noteworthy! n Galleria Mall, Zinj Tel. +973 1750 2000, +973 3681 9000 mewar@mewarrestaurant.com
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 77
Going Out
A Taste of Japan Bahrain Confidential tries out Bushido’s Izakaya Sunday dining experience‌
N
o trip to Japan is complete without trying a variety of dining out experiences. Thankfully, Bushido brought a piece of the country with their Izakaya Sundays.
When the Japanese want to keep their dining social, Izakaya is the style of eating they opt for! Their ubiquity in Japan mirrors the sociable habit of winding down after work to chat over a few drinks. This informal food gathering sees a constant stream of shared dishes being brought to the table. The aim is to try out as many different menu items as you please, over good conversation! Food is served in small portions, similar to Spanish Tapas and is normally ordered slowly over several courses rather than all at once.
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Going Out Bushido’s Izakaya Sundays is the perfect choice for catching up with coworkers, friends or loved ones after work over small talk and remarkable treats. For only BD14.5++ per person, guests can re-order dishes as many times as they like – now, what's better than an invitation to impressive, unlimited Japanese cuisine? n
Izakaya dining at Bushido includes a wide variety of signature dishes like the succulent Sashimi Sea Bass, the citrusy Tuna Wakame as well as the warm-to-the-touch Volcano Roll and the melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin with teriyaki sauce. We commenced our dining experience with the deliciously comforting Miso soup. We really enjoyed the warm bowl of this traditional Japanese soup. Navigating the myriad menu options during the night was a delicious adventure. Some dishes are traditional snacks: gyoza, yakitori; tataki. Others, such as the fiery-famour Rock Shrimp Tempura, veer into the fusion category.
Navigating the myriad menu options during the night was a delicious adventure.
There is a separate menu for the Maki, Nigiri and Sashimi. The maki selection consists of Crunchy Roll, California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Crazy Roll, Tempura Roll, Omega Salmon Roll and Sunrise Roll. You can also choose between the Avocado Salad and the Shredded Crab Salad if you want something on the lighter side. In a feeble attempt to balance the seafood items we had, the Chicken Gyoza was a refreshing intermission. The Rock Shrimp Tempura and Angus Beef Tenderloin, however, were the knockouts among the other bites. There’s also Salmon Fried Rice or Grilled Corn for those who want some grains. Talk about saving the best for last, we absolutely enjoyed the variety of desserts. Bushido’s homemade ice cream has flavours ranging from tiramisu and coconut to pineapple and green tea. Mini Carrot Cake, Cherry Sorbet, a Mini Fruit Platter are also some of the other sweet options.
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 79
Going Out
The Place to Be Bahrain Confidential experiences a blast at Hazel Rooftop Lounge‌
B
ahrain offers us endless nightlife possibilities and Hazel Rooftop Lounge seems to be on top of it! The lounge offers fine international cuisine, exclusive signature cocktails, live entertainment and gorgeous views of Bahrain's skyline.
Hazel offers a selection of gourmet sharing plates, mouth watering finger foods and perfectly cooked main dishes. Hazel is the new place to be this year, with gorgeous views and warm, friendly hospitality. We decided to check out Hazel on a Monday, and immediately felt immersed in the industrial skeletal look cut with bursts of green from the hanging planter’s pots and wall of live plants behind the bar and the swanky blues music playing in the background. Once seated, it became easier to take in the exhilarating vibe of this sociable and sophisticated venue.
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Going Out promotes the Bahraini and regional musical scene featuring live musicians several times a week. A musician’s haven with local and international talented sax, violin, trumpet, oud and guitar players jamming with the resident DJ Eric through to full 5 to 7 piece bands of blues, Jazz, indie and alternative music scenes. All of these combined with warm hospitality and topnotch service! Hazel Rooftop Lounge definitely lived up to its reputation. Would we go back? Definitely! n
The stylish high stools complemented with orange and blue seats elevated the trendy industrial design of the place. An impressive feature of the lounge is the striking set of light fixtures hanging from the celling just below the piping ducts. The bar is the main attraction, with floor to ceiling ladders and a bookshelf of a collection of great reads. Moving on to the highlight of the night, the bites and beverages. Hazel offers a selection of gourmet sharing plates, mouthwatering finger foods and delicate main dishes. The eclectic menu is a twist on more mainstream dishes such as salads, sushi, international cold and hot tapas. During the night we opted to try the famous ‘Zesty Guacamole’ which consisted of mashed avocados, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, chili and spiced Pita chips. “Holy moly guacamole!”, that’s what you’ll be thinking after each bite of this perfect treat. For the sharing plates, we tried the ‘Salmon Taco Lettuce Wraps’ which is made up of perfectly cooked salmon, tomatoes, avocado, Chipotle mayo, tortilla chips, fried shallots and sour cream. With plenty of crunch from the lettuce wraps, this mildly spiced bar bite is a spin on our favorite tacos. Next, we tried the ‘Trio of fries’, made of Amazing fries spiced in three different ways and served with a dipping sauce to create a perfect medley of fries, sauce and spice with every bite. While delighting our palates, JP, Hazel’s head waiter talked us through a newly launched cocktail experience called My Way, during the night. Although Hazel has remarkable mixologists, My Way gives whiskey enthusiasts a chance to craft their own drinks – definitely a one-of-a-kind experience. Carefully constructed by the head Mixologist Lukasz, My Way cocktails offer customers a chance to play and experiment with their own drinks. On another note, Hazel Rooftop Lounge features and
For more information: Tel. +973 17 231231 info@hazel.bh Road 3815, Bldg: 421, Block 338, Adliya
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 81
Going Out
A-Mezze-ing! Bahrain Confidential tries a new culinary adventure at Ya Hala…
R
amada Hotel & Suites Amwaj recently opened a beautiful Mediterranean rooftop restaurant you’d want to visit everyday. With stunning views and beautiful interiors, Ya Hala makes its patrons feel like they are dining somewhere in the Greek islands. Ya Hala flaunts a vast menu crafted by Executive Chef Carlos Lizarraga Mancera, that takes inspiration from the Middle East, modern Southern Europe to the Levant. Chef Carlos says that he wants to be able to take guests into a gastronomic adventure with every dish that he makes. “I want guests not to just ‘visit’ but rather have an ‘experience’ that they will remember”, Chef Carlos adds. Driven by experience and fueled by passion, Chef Carlos Lizarraga Mancera has been working as a chef for more than 15 years. He studied at the Universidad Anáhuac México Sur, Mexico and The Culinary Institute of America. Having worked at various countries across the world including the United States, Europe and the Middle East, Chef Carlos has acquired remarkable skills that is evident in his masterpieces at Ya Hala. “My dishes speak
82 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Going Out for themselves”, Chef Carlos says as he continued to share how he aims to makes people happy with his dishes. We commenced our experience by savouring the ‘Nachos Gratin’ with guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo. The nachos are definitely a crisp start to what seems like a wonderful culinary adventure. Biting into the Spanish-style ‘Charred Padron Peppers’ however, triggered a pleasant surprise on our taste buds – who knew that these bright green peppers can be turned into such an addictive side dish? Moving on to the most awaited part, the main course. Tender and full of flavour, we were quick to clean the ‘Arabic Mixed Grill’ alongside the ‘Shish Tawook’, chicken skewers marinated in herbs and spices grilled to perfection alongside grilled vegetables and fries. Paired with a side of greens and crispy fries, the mixed grill goes well with the restaurant’s impressive beverage menu. We wrapped up the evening on a sweet note with ‘Cicolatto Dolci’, which is a sweet chocolate dessert with pistachios. For
Chef Carlos Lizarraga Mancera
“I want guests not to just ‘visit’ but rather have an ‘experience’ that they will remember”.
those who are craving for a tipple or two, there’s a great cocktail and grape menu on hand. We sipped on our mocktails while admiring the sea view and the warm sunset. From quick bar bites to a banquet of sharing plates, Ya Hala definitely hits the spot. The restaurant features live music, outdoor and indoor seating with a dance floor. Ya Hala is open from 5pm to 2am during weekdays and 12nn to 2am on weekends. n For more information, call Tel. +973 1600 0099
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 83
Influencers
6 easy ways to spot a fake Instagram Influencer Fake Influencers are, unfortunately, a real part of social media. Influencers often use fraudulent practices to make their influence seem bigger than it is by buying followers, using Instagram pods, fake or stolen content, or bots. Many Influencers purchase followers to boost their numbers. For a set price, you can purchase bot-followers. But the followers are not authentic.
So, how can you spot a fake Instagram account? 1. Do the influencer’s followers have spammy names and
minimal activity on their pages (no pictures, no posts, no followers)? Have their accounts sat dormant for years? Such accounts are likely fake followers.
2. Fake influencers often steal other peoples content and photos and then post it as their own without attributing to the original poster. 3. Fake influencers usually have a high number of followers, but their engagement rates are low. That is because purchasing followers is cheap, but purchasing engagement is much more expensive. You can easily spot an unbalanced follower-to-engagement ratio by comparing engagement rates with follower rates on at least 10 of the influencer's posts. 4. Do the comments on the influencer's posts seem
nonsensical? Bot engagement responses are nonspecific and vague. Real engagement from real users is typically specific to the content that's posted.
5. Most Instagram influencers have had a gradual rise in
influence, followers, and engagement. If an Instagram influencer has had a sudden, significant jump in followers it's possible that they bought those followers.
6. Look at the quality of an influencer's content or the
number of posts the influencer has. Is there a lack of photos or posts but still thousands of Instagram followers? The likelihood of an influencer's having thousands of followers with few posts and unengaging content is slim. n
Fabianca is a Bahrain based digital marketing specialist. For a FREE 30 minute digital strategy session for your business visit Fabianca.com or call +973 36 188 100.
84 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
The K Hotel hosted their Indo-Pak Food Festival at Kolors Restaurant
Going Out
A Refreshing Taste Better and wider varieties of meal and beverages can be enjoyed at the Lanterns Gourmet Lounge, Amwaj
L
anterns Gourmet Lounge, Amwaj is proud to introduce their new and improved food and beverage menu.
Enjoy the all time favourites and enticing new dishes! A wider selection of appetisers, starters, and salads to begin a meal or side while enjoying a drink. A main course of mouth watering beef ribs and lamb shank, where succulent meat is perfectly cooked seeming to easily fall off the bone, is paired with the staple mash potatoes, vegetables and gravy. Varieties of burgers, pizzas and pastas have also been added to an already impressive menu. The Indian section has a wider choice of Tandoori, curries and biriyanis too. Expected to be big hits are the delicious prawn coconut curry and chicken vindaloo, all irresistible to try! What better way to enjoy a hearty meal than to have it paired with the best drinks? The Lantern’s beverage menu has an even greater selection now. Alongside the already big hit drinks, new and exciting cocktails like Aloe fruit punch, Yoichi Nikka, and Fluffy duck and a lot more are an addition and an invitation to all the regulars and new customers alike. Having trouble what to pick? The staff are more than accommodating to recommend
what’s best to your liking. All drinks are carefully and lovingly prepared by the staff headed by Santosh. The extensive breakfast menu is served from 9:00am to 12:00pm on weekdays. Woke up too late or just want to enjoy breakfast at noon? Then look no more for their breakfast menu is available until 2:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays. The Lanterns Gourmet Lounge looks forward to seeing you all soon. n For info and reservations, call Tel. +973 7777 0055
Bahrain Confidential September 2018 85
Influencers
Will this bull market last? The US stock market has just broken the all-time record for the longest bull market ever. It has been generally rising for nearly a decade straight. And there’s no end in sight. But there are a lot of things that might make a rational person scratch their head. The Russell 2000 index (comprised of smaller companies whose shares are listed on various US stock exchanges) is currently at its all-time high. Yet 60% of corporate debt issued by companies in the Russell 2000 is rated as JUNK. How is that possible-- a junk debt rating coupled with an alltime high? It’s as if investors are saying, “There’s little chance these companies will be able to pay their debts… but screw it, I’ll pay a record high price to buy the stock anyhow.” It doesn’t make sense. Looking at the big companies on the S&P 500 index, the current ‘CAPE ratio’ is now the second highest on record. ‘CAPE’ stands for ‘cyclically-adjusted price/earnings ratio’. It refers to how much investors are willing to pay for shares of a company, relative to the company’s long-term average earnings. Right now investors are willing to pay 33x long-term average earnings for the typical company in the S&P 500. The median CAPE ratio based on data that goes back to the 1800s is about 15.6. So at 33, investors are literally paying more than TWICE as much for every dollar of a company’s long-term average earnings than at any time in history. And it’s only been higher ONE other time-- just before the 2000 stock market crash. 33 is higher than right before the 2008 crisis. It’s even higher than it was before the Great Depression. In addition to the CAPE ratio, the average company’s Price-toBook ratio is also the highest since the 2000 crash - investors are not only paying a near record amount for every dollar of a company’s long-term average earnings, but they’re also paying a near record amount for every dollar of a company’s net assets. The list of these record / near-record ratios goes on and on. Investors are also paying an all-time record Price-to-Revenue ratio… meaning that investors have never paid a higher price for every dollar of a company’s revenue… EVER. How does that make sense? n
‘Mr. X’ wishes to keep his identity private. All we can say is he’s a private investor based in Bahrain. Mr. X
86 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Bahrain Development Bank and Capital Club took a step forward to supporting local producers
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Society
Latest Events Photos at Bahrain-Confidential.com
IKEA Bahrain held a 'Family Day' in celebration of its first store opening
Lanterns Amwaj held a Reggae Night with Abyooki and The Kushari Band
FANCY YOUR OWN COLUMN IN BAHRAIN CONFIDENTIAL? Do you know something worth sharing and feel you have what it takes to be a published writer? We seek a few interesting people to provide regular 300-350 word articles on whatever they like providing they are entertaining, contemporary, and related to Bahrain life. We offer no payment but will credit contributors and include their name, photo, and (if required) contact info. If interested, please submit sample article to nick@ArabianMagazines.com
88 Bahrain Confidential September 2018
Going Out
Zodiac Multi-Cuisine Restaurant at Al Manzil Hotel Bahrain delights everyone with this roast chicken recipe.
Dish of the Month Roasted Chicken with Oriental Rice Serve this tender and flavorful chicken with hot cooked rice to wow your guests!
Ingredients: Chicken - 1000gm Basmati rice - 500gm Minced beef - 300gm Almond nuts - 50gm Pistachio nuts - 50gm Onion - 250gm Cinnamon powder - 50gm Salt Demi-glace sauce
Roasted Chicken
Method: Chef Santhosh K.
1. Roast the chicken with the celery, onion, carrot and potatoes in a 200 °C preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until chicken is cooked and golden brown in color. 2. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large pot. Add the minced beef together with the onions and spices until the meat is brown in color. 3. Inside the pot, add the rice and stir for 2 minutes or until the rice is hot. Then, add water and let it simmer over low heat for about 2530 minutes. 4. Serve the roasted chicken along with the rice and sauce. Bahrain Confidential September 2018 89
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Beautiful Women of Bahrain
Each month, Bahrain Confidential features a beautiful woman living in Bahrain!
Meet Shabnam
Name: Shabnam Rakim Country of origin: Afghanistan What do you do in Bahrain? Model/Social media influencer Favourite holiday destination? Thailand, koh Samui Favourite designer? Virgil Abloh Quote/Motto you live by: Never dream about success. Work for it. What do you most like about Bahrain? People and culture What do you dislike about Bahrain? Humidity in summer
90 Bahrain Confidential September 2018