Bahrain Confidential - July - August 2023

Nicholas C. Cooksey

E DITORIAL

Deepika Rao

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SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Charlie Cooksey

D ESIGN

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P HOTOGRAPHY

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A DMIN & FINANCE

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The Best in Bahrain

Bahrain-Confidential.com Online edition at ArabianMagazines.com

Established since 2001, Bahrain Confidential is a Bahrain-based 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.

As we dive into this sunny season, we bring you a host of guides to help you ride out the intense heat along with delicious indulgences, and much-needed getaways! We’re also introducing some new faces on the island as they take charge of iconic hospitality properties in Bahrain! As always, enjoy a slice of everything lifestyle within these pages. Happy

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New GM on the Island

Jason Rodgers, the new General Manager at Four Seasons Resort Bahrain Bay shares his ambitions for the property, the key to creating memorable experiences for guests, and his love for travel.

With a career spanning 25 years at the Four Seasons, Jason Rodgers caught the travel bug and pursued his strong desire to see the world as a growing champion within the hospitality industry. From Malaysia and the United Kingdom to Mauritius, Qatar, and Bahrain, Rodgers’ roles at the luxury hotel’s various properties have seen him take on the positions of guest services management, hotel management, director of rooms, and now the General Manager of the iconic property in the Kingdom. An avid explorer of new cultures and places, Rodgers had a lot to share with us about his new role at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, his personal experiences, and more in this interview.

Congratulations on your appointment as the General Manager of this iconic hotel! What do you plan to achieve as the General Manager of this property?

I'm very lucky that great foundations have already been laid by my predecessors at the Hotel. I'm excited to continue that and along with the team, look at different ways to elevate the guest experiences at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay; whether it's from a product or a service point of view. We need to continue to stay relevant, not only in Bahrain but the region.

There's talk of new projects you're implementing with the team at the hotel. Can you give us an idea of what these projects are and how will they impact guest experiences at the hotel?

We've got some exciting things coming up later this year. One of them is a new restaurant concept down by the beach which will take shape in the third quarter of the year. This new concept will be

built on the foundations of the successful Arabic pop-up.

How will you benchmark your success at this property?

The most important way to benchmark success is to measure guest experiences. Are we continuing to entice new guests with different services and product offerings? More importantly, are we attracting our existing guests and encouraging them to keep coming back again as they have been over the past few years?

What do you consider to be the biggest challenges and opportunities, facing the luxury hospitality sector in the coming years, specifically in Bahrain and the region?

Saudi’s rapid expansion is a significant opportunity in the region. Four Seasons has several properties that are going to be opening up over the next few years. Here in Bahrain, we’re focusing on staying relevant, innovating with offerings and attractions to entice new guests to stay with us.

Bahrain Tourism is doing a lot to promote the Kingdom, especially the UNESCO Heritage Sites that can be great attractions to encourage tourists to visit Bahrain.

What would you say goes into making a guest’s stay memorable?

Personalization is key. It’s important to treat each guest as an individual rather than adopting a cookie-cutter approach to hospitality. Listening to their needs, understanding their requirements and finding the best solution that creates those special moments for the guests are what set you apart. It’s those memorable experiences that make the guests want to come back again.

Can you give our readers or followers a particular example where you've gone above and beyond in your time and done something for a guest?

Recently, we had a family coming to stay at the hotel and they reached out to us because this was the first time that they were travelling internationally with their one-year-old child. This was also their first hotel stay with their child outside of the UK. We wanted to make this a memorable experience for the family. Little touches such as trivial amenities, personalisations, mini bathrobes for the child, and small surprises were woven into the all-around experience for the family. Fortunately, they left extremely happy and even wrote to the CEO of Four Seasons about their stay; saying that their son will never forget his first five-star Four Seasons experience.

Having lived in Bahrain for quite a long time now, what are some of your favourite places to visit on the island outside of the hotel?

Luckily enough, my family and I enjoy travelling and exploring. We try to go out and see as much as we can of what the island has to offer. We visited Hawar Island and Jarada Island. We’ve seen the Heritage Sites, forts, and the Pearling Path which we think are quite fascinating for the kids to learn about the country's

history and culture. Then, of course, the souq which is a place everyone in Bahrain must visit.

If any of our readers were to go to a Four Seasons Hotel in the world (other than Bahrain), which one would you recommend?

I'm biased, but I'd have to say Mauritius. I opened that property and my youngest son was born there. The people, the warmth, the friendliness as well as the tropical, beautiful golden white beaches make it a destination you can’t get past.

What got you into hospitality, to begin with? What is your story?

I was either going to be in the army or I was going to be in hospitality. Both of my parents were in the Armed Forces in Australia and I grew up moving around quite a lot. That's where I caught the travel bug. I was looking at the Army as a career option as well. I went to a career fair and saw a hotel school opening where I lived in Australia at the time. It sounded like a fantastic opportunity and being able to travel, I thought it would be a great way to see the world. I was fortunate enough to experience working with Four Seasons. Once I graduated, they offered me a job in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and the rest is history. I've managed to travel the world with them since. n

The most important way to benchmark success is to measure guest experiences.

BAHRAIN CONFIDENTIAL EXCLUSIVE

New GM on the Island

We got in touch with Benoit-Joseph Metanomski, Mövenpick Bahrain’s new General Manager to find out what’s in store for the iconic property.

With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Benoit Metanomski brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise and passion to his new role. An explorer of cultures and vibrant food scenes, the new GM is ready to introduce a slew of projects to enhance guest experiences at the hotel.

Congratulations on your appointment as the General Manager of this iconic hotel! What do you plan to achieve as the General Manager of this property?

I am truly impressed by the hotel’s track record in guest satisfaction, its recent renovation, and the exceptional quality of food and ambience it offers. A recurring guest in the lobby recently shared a photograph from 2013, which reminded me of the hotel’s iconic status as one of the best in Bahrain.

During my time with the team over the past few weeks, I have identified areas where we can further enhance our operations. My goal is to enhance the overall experience of this hotel, making it exceptional in various areas such as the spa, poolside, gym, and particularly in our F&B outlets. By doing so, we will create unforgettable memories for our valued guests.

What new projects are coming up at the hotel? How will they impact guest experiences at the hotel?

We have several exciting new projects in the pipeline at our hotel. In terms of F&B, we are planning to introduce new offerings and theme nights, aiming to elevate the overall vibes and dining experiences for our guests. In addition, we are dedicated to introducing a unique lifestyle experience that centres around our fitness centre and pool area.

At the heart of our hotel are our dedicated staff, whom we affectionately refer to as “heartists”. Their passion and commitment play a crucial role in creating memorable guest experiences. By investing in their training and development, we aim to further enhance the level of service and personal attention our heartists provide to our valued guests.

Our aim is to differentiate ourselves from a typical airport hotel. We want to showcase our breathtaking landscape, stunning views, and inviting poolside while highlighting the distinctive aspects that set us apart. Our guests are at the heart of our focus, and we are fully committed to ensuring their experience with us is exceptional in every possible way.

How will you benchmark your success at this property? Guest experience is a key benchmark for evaluating the performance and success of our property. We rely on a set of indicators, including guest feedback gathered through various tools, to ensure we consistently deliver a satisfying experience. While guest experience score is a primary indicator, we also prioritize employee satisfaction. Our team regularly assesses their working experience, as a happy team leads to happy guests.

In addition to guest and employee satisfaction, we consider financial sustainability as a critical factor. By monitoring these aspects, we can effectively measure our performance and make informed decisions to enhance the overall guest experience and maintain our success.

What do you consider to be the biggest challenges and opportunities, facing Bahrain’s luxury hospitality sector in the coming years?

The luxury hospitality sector in Bahrain is currently experiencing significant growth, with hotels undergoing renovations, rebranding, and new properties emerging. With this expansion, one of the biggest challenges and opportunities lies in effectively differentiating our offerings from the competition and further marketing ourselves.

In terms of opportunities, Bahrain is actively working on improving access to tourist attractions. The introduction of several projects aimed at enhancing the island’s tourist offerings will undoubtedly add value to the hotel industry.

By capitalizing on these opportunities, we can further elevate the luxury hospitality sector in Bahrain, providing exceptional experiences for both domestic and international guests.

What are some of your favourite places to visit and things to do on the island?

Bahrain offers a plethora of incredible places to visit and things to do that truly capture the essence of this beautiful island. One of the places I had the pleasure of visiting and enjoyed was Adliya, a dynamic and bustling district known for its outstanding culinary scene and vibrant nightlife. Exploring the diverse culinary scene there is an absolute delight.

I am also excited about the prospect of exploring the diverse tourist sites on the island. One notable attraction is the renowned Awali Golf Course, which holds a special charm as it is built on sand. Additionally, I plan to visit Bahrain Fort, explore Jarada Island, and experience the thrill of BIC karting. I am also looking forward to attending upcoming events and immersing myself in the vibrant atmosphere they offer.

What brought you to the hospitality industry?

My journey in the hospitality industry began during my time studying

Management Finance in France. While pursuing my degree, I discovered a passion for teaching tennis at my local club, and the experience was truly fulfilling. This sparked my curiosity and desire to delve deeper into the world of hospitality.

To gain comprehensive knowledge and expertise in the field, I made the decision to pursue my Masters at Vatel France, a renowned institution specializing in hospitality education. This provided me with a solid foundation and understanding of the industry.

I embarked on my professional career in the front office, working at two distinct hotels in Paris for a period of four years. Seeking new experiences and cultural immersion, I ventured to Vietnam, Australia, Cambodia, and Thailand, exploring diverse cultures and seizing various opportunities within the hospitality sector.

These enriching experiences have shaped my passion for hospitality, allowing me to continuously grow and learn from different perspectives. The industry’s dynamic nature, coupled with the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life, continues to inspire and drive my dedication to creating exceptional guest experiences. n

Our guests are at the heart of our focus, and we are fully committed to ensuring their experience with us is exceptional in every possible way.

New face of the Bleu de Chanel Fragrance

Timothée Chalamet is the new face of the Bleu de Chanel fragrance, the French luxury fashion house announced. Bleu de Chanel marks Chalamet’s first collaboration with the brand and as the official ambassador of any fashion or beauty label.

“Timothée Chalamet personifies the visionary and edgy spirit of the next chapter of BLEU DE CHANEL: a man who does not limit himself to the ordinary boundaries life sets and looks beyond what is visible,” the brand stated. n

Timothée Chalamet

An Unforgettable Summer Escape T

his summer, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain is the place to be! With exclusive Summer Room Packages, designed to provide guests with an experience of luxury, comfort, and unforgettable memories, the resort promises a much-needed escape for you and your loved ones. Nestled in the heart of Manama, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain is known for its exceptional hospitality, picturesque ambience, and legendary service.

The premium room package offers guests a host of benefits, including a complimentary upgrade to a 1-bedroom suite, exclusive access to the Club Lounge, daily food and beverage

credit worth BHD 40, and 2 beach passes, making it the perfect choice for a summer retreat. For guests seeking a family-friendly offer, the bed and breakfast package is perfect, while the family package entitles you to 50% savings when you book a second room for the kids.

Unwind in elegantly designed rooms and suites that boast breathtaking views and promise a host of amenities. For food enthusiasts, indulge in a culinary journey at our world-class restaurants, offering an array of delectable cuisines that will delight both the mind and your taste buds.

Discover more and rejuvenate at the luxurious spa, where expert therapists will provide invigorating treatments tailored to your needs. Whether it is a relaxing massage, a revitalizing facial, or a soothing body scrub, let skilled therapists cater to your wellness needs and help you achieve a summer glow. Charges apply.

Catering to adventure seekers, the luxury hotel has also created an exciting lineup of recreational activities, including city tours, water sports, boat trips, and island picnics. So you can immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the vibrant surroundings of Manama.

All packages are available for bookings until August 31, 2023, and offer flexible stay durations to accommodate your unique travel plans.

Discover With You Package | Starts from BHD 250+++ per night

Includes overnight stay in a Club room, upgrade to a suite, Club Lounge access, 2 complimentary day passes for outside guests, BHD 40 daily food and beverage credit (terms and conditions apply)

Family Offer | Starts from BHD 150+++ per night

Includes overnight stay in a Deluxe room, 50% savings on the 2nd room booked for kids (terms and conditions apply)

Bed and Breakfast Package | Starts from BHD 130+++ per night

Includes overnight stay in a Deluxe room, daily buffet breakfast at La Med n

To learn more about these exclusive Summer Room Packages, call +973 1758 6868. Follow the hotel on Facebook and Instagram @ ritzcarltonbahrain.

An Elite Special Summer Fiesta

Elite Hospitality Group is welcoming guests this summer to explore their special Summer Fiesta with family and friends!

The Elite Resort & Spa, a luxurious all-suite 4-star, provides all the contemporary facilities to accommodate your needs from one to twobedroom suites at a special daily rate of BD 85 net per night, inclusive of breakfast buffet.

The resort offers a breathtaking sea view, along with the relaxing atmosphere of a city resort and the comfort of being close to the city centre. The newly opened beach club - Azul overlooks the panoramic seafront of Muharraq Bay. The beach is equipped with change and shower rooms. Guests can have a perfect day taking sunbath and a dip in the sea, or chilling and sipping their favourite drinks. It is open from morning 8 AM until midnight, making your evenings perfect with a fantastic ambience.

Guest can indulge in Grill Nights every Thursday and Friday from 7 PM till 11 PM priced at BD 12 net per person with soft beverages, BD 24.5 net per person with selected alcoholic beverages and BD 6 net for kids aged 6-12 years old.

In addition, guests can enjoy mouthwatering international cuisines with a Friday Brunch at La Brasserie Specialty Restaurant at a special price of BD 12 net inclusive of soft beverages, BD 21 net which includes selected beverages and BD 6 net for children aged 6-12 years old from 12:30 PM till 3:30 PM. Children can enjoy a number of activities by the poolside, featuring fun games and face painting, while upbeat songs play throughout the day.

For inquiries, call 38884415

Elite Seef Residence & Hotel located in the Seef area in the centre of the Kingdom’s main shopping area is a true comfort spacious suites with the fun of city living. The one and two-bedroom family suites are furnished in modern leather interiors, with a fully equipped modular kitchen, bathrooms, a home theatre system, a digital satellite television system, and 24-hour personalised room service with special menus offering lavish choices with great value. The one-bedroom suite starts at BD 39 net per night, inclusive of Wi-Fi internet and breakfast buffet for two persons.

During the Summer Fiesta, all guests can avail a 15% discount on every room service order every day for 24 hours.

Guests can enjoy Khaleeji Nights every Thursday and Friday from 8 PM till 12 AM with a special food menu and entertainment priced at BD 10 net per adult and BD 5 net per child.

For inquiries, call 36020600

Elite Crystal Hotel is nestled in the heart of Juffair. The one and two-bedroom family suites are the perfect place to unwind in a relaxing atmosphere with personalised service by a dedicated team.

Their special summer promotions include a breakfast buffet, and a free early and late checkout starting at BD 33 net per night at a one or twin-bedroom suite. Similarly, the two-bedroom suite starts at BD 65 net only including taxes and service charge, Wi-Fi internet, and buffet breakfast for four persons with hot beverages and selected fresh juices.

Each spacious suite is furnished with a complete home theatre system.

For inquiries, call 17360360

Elite Hospitality Catering offers food service, specializing in institutional catering in offices and factories, supplying to large companies, banks, factories, and ministries. The group also caters for events such as receptions, cocktail parties, BBQs, birthdays, anniversaries, and graduation celebrations. n

For bookings and more details, call: +97317558200 or visit www.elitegrouphotels.com

The resort offers a breathtaking sea view, along with the relaxing atmosphere of a city resort and the comfort of being close to the city centre.

Spots in Bahrain for Crafty Chocolate Treats 10

Whether enjoyed as a decadent treat, a comforting indulgence, or an exquisite delicacy, chocolate has a way of satisfying our cravings and creating moments of pure bliss.

We've curated a list of chocolate havens that we believe you must try and take your taste buds on a decadent adventure!

Creolate Chocolatier

If you want to experience premium flavours, stunning presentations and pure chocolate bliss, Creolate Chocolatier is the place to go!

Contact: 36992700 (WhatsApp)

Saturday - Thursday: 10 AM to 9 PM

Friday: 1 PM to 9 PM

ChocoLAB at The Merchant House

Indulge in some exceptional artisanal flavours of Chocolate at ChocoLAB! Crafted from sustainably sourced cacao beans, their bean-to-bar creations are delightful. ChocoLAB is a partnership between The Merchant House and Auro Chocolate. We recommend their fondues!

The Merchant House, Manama: 12 Noon to 8 PM

Gardens of Chocolate Cafe

Gardens of Chocolate Cafe is your destination, especially if you prefer cake delights. From dipped-in-chocolate treats to molten surprises, every bite transports you to chocolaty bliss!

Order on WhatsApp: 38288999

Leaves

A place where artistry meets indulgence, Leaves Chocolates brings to you meticulously handcrafted chocolates.

Riffa | Seef: 10 PM to 8 PM

Contact: 32328882 | 17599055

Maya La Chocolaterie

Their signature chocolate fondant, a velvety masterpiece paired perfectly with creamy vanilla ice cream, will leave you craving more!

Riffa: 3 PM to 10 PM

Contact: 39204222

Läderach

If you desire the ultimate Swiss chocolate experience, look no further than Läderach! It is an absolute must-visit for chocolate connoisseurs.

Visit their website or contact them at 38818080.

Le Chocolat

From chocolate delights to mouthwatering cakes and international cuisine, experience a Parisianinspired ambiance at Le Chocolat!

Contact: 66622110 (WhatsApp)

Ivy

W ith a perfect blend of exquisite chocolates and beautiful florals, visit Ivy to get the best of both worlds. Saturday - Thursday: 10 AM to 10 PM

Friday: 1 PM to 10 PM

Al Aali Mall: 17179493 | Riffa 17179417

LalaBella

Satisfy the chocolate connoisseur in you and indulge in LalaBella's premium creations. Their bespoke floral arrangements and gifts add the perfect touch for your day!

Muharraq: 77011114 | AlHamala: 17741111 |

Moda Mall: 17471111

Bateel Bahrain

Experience the irresistible chocolate-covered dates at Bateel, where indulgence meets perfection.

AlAali | City Centre | Duty-Free

Contact: 39911222 (WhatsApp)

School search made easy...

Spots to Enjoy Refreshing Boba Tea in Bahrain 8

AAs the summer heat intensifies in Bahrain, a refreshing and chilled boba tea promises to be an ultimate cool-down companion! With its icy blends, vibrant flavours, and chewy tapioca pearls, bubble tea is the perfect remedy to beat the scorching temperatures.

From fruit-infused blends with tropical goodness to soothing iced teas, we bring you some of the must-try spots in Bahrain, guaranteed to leave you refreshed!

Bubblicious

Bubblicious offers a wide range of classic and unique bubble tea flavours, making it a favourite among tea enthusiasts. Every sip takes you on a delightful journey through a fusion of traditional and unique concoctions!

Location: Oasis Mall Juffair

Contact: 33881860

Chaba Thai Bubble

From Iced Boba Lattes to Magical Summer Boba drinks, indulge in the refreshing tastes of summer at Chaba Thai Boba, where 100% organic boba bursts with tropical and authentic Thai flavours!

Location: Almoayyed Tower, Seef (9 AM – 12 AM) | Enma Mall, Riffa (10 AM – 11 PM)

Contact: 38820777 | 38824777

MILKD

From unique flavours like Tiramisu Boba to passion Lemonade Teas, they have it all! Get their signature boba teas online or visit them at:

Location: Riffa (10 AM – 1 AM) | Al sayh (10 AM – 1 AM)

Contact: 66325665 | 66315665

Latea

Experience tea at its finest, exclusively at Latea. With their expertly crafted loose-leaf tea, real fruits, and natural flavours, rejuvenate yourself with an authentic delight of fresh boba milk tea and fruit tea this summer!

Location: Seef Mall (11 AM – 10:30 PM) | Mashtan Avenue, Riffa (1 PM – 10:30 PM)

Chateau de Cebu

Image Credits: Chateau de Cebu

A spot with exciting spins such as Honey Comb, Chateau de Cebu also offers alternatives for milk. Do look out for their limited bestseller, Halo Halo!

Location: Manama (5:30 PM – 10:30 PM)

Chobcha Thai Tea

Indulge in exquisite combinations of authentic Thai bubble tea. Chobcha’s Two Tone Boba Teas are a delight! Visit them or order on Talabat!

Location: LuLu Hypermarket, Hidd (10:30 AM – 10:30 PM)

Contact: 17404303

Humble

W ith an Instagrammable interior and exterior, Humble has a wide range of beverages such as boba, açaí and more! Visit them or order via Talabat.

Location: Janabiyah (10 AM – 11:30 PM) | Riffa (3 PM – 11 PM) | Busaiteen (10 AM –11:30 PM)

Contact: 38700074 | 38055588 |

38700072

Swirls

Get the best of both worlds with their Swirls Signature Bobas! A spot with unique blends of fruity and chilled ingredients, Swirls is a must-visit.

Location: Exhibition Avenue, Manama (10 AM – 1 AM)

Contact: 33664050 | 77931000

August M vies

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Barbie

Retribution

Gran Turismo

Run Rabbit Run

Meg2

The Secret Kingdom

Chef Cuneyt Asan Visits Bahrain

A weekend to remember with Chef Cuneyt Asan - Turkish celebrity chef, the founder of Gunaydin and a master chef of meat and steak! He joined Bahrain’s influential crowd at Gunaydin and Oro for a weekend of fun, steaks, and pure delight!

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