Bahrain Confidential - October 2022

Page 22

Issue 234 BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20 Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

PUBLISHER

SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Charlie Cooksey

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Noor Albasri

Zain Alhanbali

PHOTOGRAPHY

Angelo Jose A

ADMIN & FINANCE

Nikesh Pola DISTRIBUTION

Mohammed Yousif

For Advertising Opportunities Call Charlie Cooksey

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

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 info@ArabianMagazines.com www.ArabianMagazines.com

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

First of all...

As we put Summer behind us, it’s time for those breezy evenings to take over on the island! This means, more reasons to get out there and enjoy all that Bahrain has to offer. The October edition highlights some of the most anticipated events around the island along with our recommendations. As always, we’ve combed through some of the best in Bahrain’s luxury, dining, lifestyle, and people scene.

Happy reading!

Printed at Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej, Bahrain. Bahrain-Confidential.com Online edition at ArabianMagazines.com

The Best in Bahrain

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.

Visit: Bahrain-Confidential.com Issue 234 Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com
&
@ConfidentialBah @BahrainConfidential Bahrain Confidential Bahrain Confidential TV
Image Credit: @iamtravelr
CONTENTS Online edition at Bahrain-Confidential.com 07 OCTOBER 2022 Issue 234 1 Hotel Central Park Guides 7 Exploring Bahrain 12 Friday Brunch at Grand Swiss-Belhotel Waterfront 14 Sweet Tooth - 5 Great Spots For All The Chocolate Lovers in Bahrain Features 16 Hilton Bahrain - A Review of The Island’s New Upscale Residential Hotel 20 A Sanctuary in the Center of New York City - 1 Hotel Central Park 22 Elite Escapes 24 An 'Influential' September with Jotun Paints Interviews 26 TikTok Around The Clock - Getting to Know Christina Bar 28 #BahrainBios: Alper Kucukbaycan of The Westin & Le Meridien Hotels City Centre 30 #BahrainBios: The Joy of Cycling Sarah AlSammak 20 12 16 Exploring Bahrain

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 websitesoptimized 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 | 1700 4575 SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING CORPORATE BRANDING GRAPHICS AND WEB DESIGN CONTRACT PUBLISHING ARABIC TRANSLATION PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY MEDIA AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Social Media 6 Bahrain Confidential October 2022 Follow @Bahrain Confidential Here’s our top social media posts from last month. Don’t forget to like our Facebook page! @ConfidentialBah BahrainConfidential Bahrain Confidential Follow us on Top Posts 273,083 28.5k 5,819 56.5K people reached 2.4K reactions, comments & shares 35.5K people reached 2.1K reactions, comments & shares 399 likes 173 Likes FACEBOOK FANS INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS

Exploring Bahrain

10 Great Spots to Check Out Around the Island

Bahrain is studded with hidden gems just waiting to be explored! The island has a happening vibe, a well-preserved heritage, and beautiful beaches. We’ve curated a list of some great places in Bahrain to check out if you’re new to the island and starting to explore it or are just looking for someplace to visit on the weekend!

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 7 Feature

Bab Al Bahrain

The doorway to Bahrain – Bab Al Bahrain needs no introduction. The 1949 structure once overlooked the sea and was a crucial landmark for trade in the Kingdom. Behind Bab Al Bahrain is Manama Souq – where every alley and corner takes you to a vibrant shop selling textiles, spices, perfumes, handicrafts, and souvenirs among more.

Bahrain Bay

You can thank Bahrain Bay for much of the beautiful Bahrain skyline!

Home to some iconic landmarks, the development is proof of one finding the new, modern Bahrain mixing with the traditional. Join Kashta Tours or Beach Culture for some water activities during sunrise and sunset as well!

Bilaj Al Jazayer

The sunset beach – Zallaq gives you the best beach vibes! Catch large waves, surf, or just lounge by the water during those golden sunset moments. A visit to Bilaj Al Jazayer is a must!

Feature 8 Bahrain Confidential October 2022

Bahrain International Circuit

Home of motorsports - Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir is a must-visit whether you’re a motor racing fan or not. Since April 2004, the circuit has hosted the annual Formula One Grand Prix races and has opened for several of its seasons. During the off-season, treat yourself to the thrill of karting, enjoy a ride in a Hummer, or even test drive a race car on the F1 track.

Block 338

This entire block in Bahrain is dedicated to a whole lot of restaurants and diners. It’s home to Happy Hours and DJ Nights all weeklong. Welcome to Block 338, the island’s dining district!

Bu Maher Fort

Catch a boat ride from Bahrain National Museum to the starting point of Bahrain’s famous Pearling Path. Bu Maher Fort was built in 1840 and brims with the history of pearling - a traditional occupation that gives Bahrain the name, ‘Pearl of the Gulf’.

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 9 Feature

Qal’at Al Bahrain

Towering at 39 feet, Qal’at Al Bahrain (Fort of Bahrain) holds evidence of human settlements spanning over 4500 years. Its origin begins roughly in 2300 BC as the capital of the ancient Dilmun civilisation. The Fort had been central to Bahrain’s identity as a trade hub and was uncovered by a team of Danish archaeologists led by Geoffrey Bibby in the 1950s. In 2005, it entered the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Check out the museum, tour the fort, or sit by the beautiful seaside cafe at Qal’at Al Bahrain.

Manamat Al Gossaibi

A tribute to Saudi Arabia’s Dr Gazi Abdul Rahman Al Gosaibi, this traditional Bahraini house in Manama’s Fareej Al Fadel. Artistic displays dot the house celebrating the reformist, minister, and ambassador – Al Gosaibi.

Pearling Path – Muharraq

An important part of Bahrain’s pearling history is Muharraq. Walking through this impressive town and its narrow lanes, you will get to see restored traditional Bahraini houses, each of which speaks volumes of the rich history of pearl trading, architecture, culture, and traditions of Bahrain.

RAK Art Foundation

The Rashid Al Khalifa (RAK) Art Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering artists worldwide. The Foundation exists within a converted traditional Bahraini House, the home where Rashid Al Khalifa, a practising artist, patron of the arts and collector, was raised. His collection includes hundreds of international works of fine and decorative art, camera and film equipment and furniture and interior design.

Feature 10 Bahrain Confidential October 2022
BAHRAIN EDUCATION: INNOVATION & EXCELLENCE 2022 2022 Recognizing and celebrating educational innovation and excellence in Bahrain. COMING SOON!
Feature 12 Bahrain Confidential October 2022 Check Out Grand Swiss-Belhotel Waterfront For Your Next Friday Brunch! A recap of Bahrain Confidential’s brunch experience at the Waterfront Restaurant at the Grand Swiss-Belhotel Waterfront

Overlooking the sea, the brunch was set at the Waterfront Cafe, with an extensive spread. The threecourse meal begins with a variety of salad options. We personally enjoyed the eggplant salad (recommended by one of the chefs and made for a tasty surprise!), the egg salad with avocado, and the quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and feta cheese!

Moving onto the main course options, the Roasted Beef Brisket was a true delight with well-done slices of meat coated with a thick rosemary roasted potato sauce. We also tried the Herb Crusted Hamour, the cheesy Macaroni and Bechamel, and the Traditional Lamb Kabsa (known as a one-pot rice preparation). The key attraction though was the selection of Sushi with crab, tuna, vegetables, and egg!

Coinciding with celebrations for Saudi National Day, the brunch had a green theme – which was curated with organic greens and herbs. The dessert section was a treat to see with a green (white chocolate) fondue paired yummily with a slice of kiwi along with lime macaroons, green apple mousse, pistachio cheesecake, and some mint scented Cream Brulee!

Not only was the brunch a delicious spread of everything from vegetarian to seafood options but a treat for the eye as well! If you’re looking to try out a new brunch this week, we recommend you give Grand Swiss-Belhotel Waterfront! n

‘B

reakfast is a meal but brunch is a culture’ – we can’t get enough of this saying, especially when it comes to trying out new brunches around the island! If you’re looking for a recommendation, Grand Swiss-Belhotel’s Grand Friday Brunch is a must-try.

The Brunch is hosted every Friday from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM for BD 11 Net a plate.

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 13 Feature
Overlooking the sea, the brunch was set at the Waterfront Cafe, with an extensive spread.

Sweet Tooth Great Spots For All The Chocolate Lovers in Bahrain6

Centuries ago, the world was introduced to what we all know and love as chocolates! Bahrain has a number of establishments serving some of these delicious treats. We think that these 6 spots in the Kingdom are a must-try.

Maya La Chocolaterie

@mayalachocolaterie

An upscale chocolate boutique you must check out if you’re looking for cakes, snacks, or anything else chocolaty!

Location: Riffa

Le Chocolat

@lechocolat_bh

Chocolate cakes, mini bites, and more! Le Chocolat is the home for all things chocolate!

Location: Seef | Diplomatic | Riffa | Saar | Busaiteen | Arad | Adliya

Feature 14 Bahrain Confidential October 2022

Creolate Chocolatier

If you are looking for artisanal Belgian Chocolate made in Bahrain, Creolate has got you covered!

Location: Seef

Leaves Chocolates

Planning a special day? Consider giving your gatherings a dessert that’s wrapped in artistic elegance!

Location: Riffa

Arab Sweets

@arab__sweets.as

Every chocolate you have ever loved –from Twix to Toblerone, from Kitkat to Galaxy, and from Bounty to Lotus – can be found at this one-stop shop! Buying for many? Arab Sweets is a wholesale outlet that lets you buy chocolates in bulk for the most affordable rates!

Location: Muharraq | Budaiya | Ghalali | Malkiya | Sanad

Bateel Bahrain

@bateel.bh

Bateel’s gourmet chocolates are created by an eclectic group of chocolatiers! Looking for chocolates with the goodness of dates? Bateel is the choice to go with!

Locations: AlAali | City Centre | Bahrain Duty-Free

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 15 Feature
@creolate_chocolatier
@leavesbahrain

Hilton Bahrain

Review of

Island’s New

Feature 16 Bahrain Confidential October 2022 A
The
Upscale Residential Hotel

Overlooking one of the two seas, the property, while offering a splendid view from its higher floors, also gives guests an opportunity to explore Bahrain.

In August this year, Hilton inaugurated its second property within reach of Bahrain’s entertainment hub. The 45-story Hilton Bahrain is a pet-friendly, upscale residential hotel providing short and extended stays for guests travelling into Bahrain on business or looking for a weekend getaway. Bahrain Confidential got to spend some quality time at the brand-new property and experience the amenities, the dining, and the hospitality.

Overlooking one of the two seas, the property, while offering a splendid view from its higher floors, also gives guests an opportunity to explore Bahrain. Located in the heart of Manama, the hotel is a short drive away from attractions like Bab Al Bahrain (Manama Souq), Al Fateh Grand Mosque, Bahrain City Centre, and the World Trade Centre among others.

Once inside the hotel, the modern Arabic-style interiors will make a subtle impression on you. The design is meant to reflect Bahrain’s history through elements of black gold, aquamarine representing the two seas, and a pearl white shade for Bahrain’s name – Pearl of the Gulf.

Rooms

The 45-floor tower is home to over 348 residential spaces (studios, one, and two-bedroom apartments) with each providing a view of the sea. The rooms are designed for short and extended stays with a kitchenette in the smaller flats or a full-fledged kitchen in the bigger ones.

They are equipped with workstations, dining areas, a reading nook, and spacious walk-in closets. If you’re one to prefer a good

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 17 Feature

This new property in the heart of Bahrain is an impressive addition to the island’s luxury hospitality sector.

Feature 18 Bahrain Confidential October 2022

On the hotel’s sixth floor, you’ll find a temperaturecontrolled outdoor pool for kids and adults.

view, you might choose to permanently reside on the balcony during your stay.

We’ll say this again, Hilton Bahrain is petfriendly!

Dining

The dining options at the hotel include Origin – Kitchen & Culture, Cocoluna Lounge, and Lamar Cafe & Lounge.

Origin Kitchen & Culture is the hotel’s all-day diner, accommodating up to 138 guests under a starry ceiling. The restaurant is home to Hilton’s Friday Brunches, buffet spreads, live cooking stations, and an a la carte menu.

Note: Make sure to check out the diner’s home-grown green produce when you visit.

Cocoluna Lounge on the other hand has a breezy vibe, perfect for a late afternoon hang. You can enjoy some fresh beverages with beats and bubblies in an outdoor set-up with a great view of Juffair Beach. The Lamar Cafe & Lounge is a comfy bistro on the ground floor, by the lobby. The cafe serves baked pastries, gourmet snacks,

Amenities

On the hotel’s sixth floor, you’ll find a temperature-controlled outdoor pool for kids and adults. The pool operates from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM with a stunning view of the sea. The hotel has a fully equipped fitness centre with a personal trainer and access to steam and sauna and a jacuzzi.

The Cocoon Wellness Centre offers an extensive spa treatment package which includes massage and a flower bath. The relaxation room has a rather interesting body-healing chair with a crystal-filled mat along with infrared and LED lights.

To sum up, this new property in the heart of Bahrain is an impressive addition to the island’s luxury hospitality sector. Make sure to book a stay with them for your next holiday. n

For more details or to book a room, visit www.hilton.com

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 19 Feature
and freshly brewed coffee all day round.

A Sanctuary in the Center of New York City

Bahrain Confidential stays at 1 Hotel

Central Park.

New York City is one of the world’s great cities – in size, sophistication, and dynamism. For many travellers from the Middle East, the city feels like home thanks to its cosmopolitan and diverse population. While public transportation in the city is easily accessible and regular, for those wishing to visit Central New York and seeking to best experience all it has to offer (not least its food, shopping hubs, and vibrant culture), it’s ideal and convenient to find a place to stay right in the heart of the city. Thereby, saving time in travelling from outside the central metropolis.

We, at Bahrain Confidential, were lucky enough to visit New York this August and stay at the centrally located 1 Hotel Central Park.

20 Bahrain Confidential October 2022

Overall, I enjoyed the downtime at 1 Hotel Central Park after touring a busy, crowded, and active New York City.

Not only is this a beautiful hotel in itself, its convenient location, just one block and less than a three-minute walk from one of Central Park’s main entrances makes this property an ideal place to stay.

First, I’d like to say something about Central Park which perhaps, more than any other feature, makes the hustling and bustling city of New York livable for its inhabitants. After exploring the massive and beautifully maintained Park, it’s both amazing and impressive that such a large green area has been preserved and protected in the middle of what must be the world’s most valuable real estate.

During our stay at the 18-story 1 Hotel, each morning would begin with a leisurely walk or bicycle ride around the city – New York has public bicycles which you can easily hire using your credit card from the hundreds of automated pick-up and drop-off spots.

Back to the hotel – it has a ‘living vertical garden’ covering three

of its floors. This boutique hotel does not have a swimming pool, though it has a well-equipped 24-hour gym. The warm and friendly staff seemed to greet all guests walking into their hotel with a ‘welcome home!’

Inside the hotel (and outside by the entrance), there were a lot of plants and greenery. I would notice particularly juicy and succulent apples and pears by the lift in the lobby each morning and it had become a daily habit to pick one up on my way out.

The busy restaurant, Jams, on the ground floor of the hotel was a hub for office-goers to hang out in the early evenings. Back in my room, I had a comfortable window nook which was an ideal spot to stretch out and look over New York with a cup of coffee.

Overall, I enjoyed the downtime at 1 Hotel Central Park after touring a busy, crowded, and active New York City. While it’s not far from all the hubs and happenings, the hotel’s calm, friendly, and cozy environment makes for a pleasant stay. If you are in the city, I would recommend a stay at 1 Hotel Central Park. n

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 21 Feature
22 Bahrain Confidential October 2022 These Hotels in Bahrain Are Offering Fun Family Getaways! ‘Elite’ Escapes

All hotels of the group are offering special rates with 15 per cent discounts on food and beverages along with access to VIP facilities.

Elite Hospitality Group is offering guests a respite from the heat with a refreshing getaway. With various choices at their hotels, enjoy a relaxing time with your family while taking in the sea and city views along with access to shopping hubs in Bahrain.

All hotels of the group are offering special rates with 15 per cent discounts on food and beverages along with access to VIP facilities. Elite’s Summer Escape is available in all their hotels until October 2022.

Elite Resort and Spa, located on Sheikh Hamad Causeway provides spacious and bright suites with a sea view and WiFi access. Enjoy Tarab Nights at The Al Naseem Poolside where you can indulge in live grills, and entertainment every Thursday and Friday from 7 PM to 11 PM at BD 12 net per person and BD 6 net per child.

At The La Brasserie Specialty Restaurant, enjoy your choice of pasta served with soft beverages at BD 3.9 NET.

Elite Seef Residence & Hotel, at the heart of the happening Seef District, entertains guests with Khaleeji Nights every Thursday & Friday from 8 PM till 12 AM.

Their Ladies Night at Captain Jack’s comes with three complimentary beverages by the poolside or in their indoor lounge between 7 PM and 12 AM from Saturday to Wednesday.

The Business Lunch Buffet at Julio’s Specialty Restaurant will begin at 12:30 PM and go on till 3:30 PM every day priced at BD 6.5 net per person including one bottled water, canned Juice, or soft beverage. n

For bookings and inquiries please call, +973 17 558 200 or visit www.elitegrouphotels.com to know more.

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 23 Feature

Recap: An Influential September With Jotun Paints

Jotun and Bahrain Confidential tied up with four influencers – two mums and two artists over the course of September! The campaign got them to try two productsJotun’s Fenomastic Wonderwall Lux and Jotashield ColourXtreme.

Feature 24 Bahrain Confidential October 2022

Mom-fluencers Manal Talal and Dua Isaa shared their decision to opt for Jotun’s Fenomastic Wonderwall Lux for the indoors. With no smell and improved indoor air quality added to the antibacterial and antifungal properties, the Fenomastic Wonderwall Lux is for you if you have kids turning the walls into canvases at home.

“What I liked most about the Jotun Wonderwall Lux is the fact the smell doesn’t linger, which was perfect for the kids as we would usually have to take them out of the house when we have a paint job,” says Duaa Isa.

Our art-fluencers, Amal Balooshi and Faris Noor explored Jotun’s interior and exterior paints that play a significant role in inspiring their creative, artistic expressions.

Faris AKA Fero used the Jotashield ColourXtreme that’s designed to keep exterior walls protected and resistant to dirt, flaking, and chalking. The paint comes with a heat reflective feature that lowers paint deterioration when exposed

to heat. This property provides a longlasting exterior paint with fade-resistant colors.

“Jotun Paints provide a variety of options that suits every mood that you want your home to reflect and I found how I wanted my family and myself to feel with the choices of colours I had,” – Manal Talal

The month-long campaign with Jotun Paints and the four influencers highlighted different glimpses of how the product makes a difference. n

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 25 Feature
Duaa Isa Fero

TikTok Around The Clock: Getting to Know Christina Barr

award-winning TikToker

With over 433,000 followers, Christina Barr AKA Christina Glow Up won the best TikToker Award at the recent Social Media Awards Ceremony in Bahrain! The make-up artist and social media influencer has been entertaining her legions of followers with her TikTok videos that feature her language learning and make-up skills.

We had an opportunity to interview Christina, find out her Bahrain story, and get some content creation tips for all the aspiring influencers out there!

Tell us a little about yourself and your Bahrain story. It’s pretty scary moving to a new country and leaving everything you know behind. When I moved here from Ireland, I didn’t know anyone other than Hussain (my husband) and didn’t even have a driving license. I knew early on I needed to gain my independence and get out there to meet people and start my own individual journey.

26 Bahrain Confidential October 2022 Bahrain Confidential interviews the

I was so pleased to see how open and welcoming everyone was here and quickly enough I started making friends by joining sports groups and mingling with people at social events.

Having my own driving license was a huge priority to me and it was really quite simple to do. Once I had my license I was able to start working as a freelance makeup artist travelling to hotels and home visits for weddings etc.

You have a massive following on TikTok (433K+) and Instagram (18K+). What are some content creation habits or tips you use to grow your reach with your audience?

I'm a very creative person so when I’m creating content it comes quite naturally. Always remember to be authentic. Relatability really helps with growing your audience reach. A little humour never goes amiss either. I love how much my followers interact

with me and love reading how much they enjoy my content. It helps me get a feel for what content they really enjoy the most.

What's your go-to tip for a) learning a new language and b) make-up?

Having an interest in the language makes it much more fun and easier to learn. Being married to a Bahraini also gives me a huge reason for wanting to learn Arabic. In Ireland, we have our own language called Gaelic which has a few similarities to Arabic. I’ve always been very curious about culture/people and having the interaction I do with my followers helps me learn more naturally while having fun.

Makeup is where my artistic side really comes out. It’s a form of art and expression and is very individualistic. I feel everyone should experiment as much as possible and have fun with makeup. It’s a way to express your individuality and personality.

Makeup is where my artistic side really comes out. It’s a form of art and expression and is very individualistic.

Who's your favourite social media influencer and why?

Huda Kattan for sure. She’s a huge inspiration to me!!

I had her on my vision board for the longest time and then I was lucky enough to do a zoom call with her through Sephora Middle East.

She’s a self-made female entrepreneur who started Huda Beauty and creates the most amazing makeup and skincare products. She’s a great role model for women and is constantly making strides in the makeup industry while breaking “conventional beauty standards”

What's your favourite thing to do and place to visit if you want to relax in Bahrain?

I and Hussain love to go to the beaches here in Bahrain. We are big sports enthusiasts and love to play volleyball and go for a swim on the weekends. Bahrain is such a beautiful island and we love to get outdoors as much as possible and explore all it has to offer. At night, we love to try new restaurants and soak up the ambiance in Bahrain. n

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 27 Feature

#BahrainBios

Alper Kucukbaycan of The Westin & Le Meridien Hotels City Centre

the F&B and spa offerings to ensure complex is a centre of fun, excitement and attraction.

What major changes will you enact?

I look forward to redefining the arrival experience at The Westin and Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain – from new F&B concepts, more entertainment activities and events that will cater to a variety of guests.

What qualities do the hotels have that make them stand out in Bahrain?

Perfect location, great leadership team, extremely supportive ownership, great product and exceptional associates.

What do you consider to be Bahrain’s strengths and weaknesses as a tourist and business destination?

Bahrain is a stunning country – it’s peaceful, welcoming and has kept its historical beauty in spite of its modernity. It has great weather for most of the year and just one bridge away from one of the wealthiest countries.

However, the Kingdom need more tourist attraction points like the Burj al Arab, Burj Khalifa, etc. We are heavily dependent on Saudi Arabia’s weekend business and this is a risk – we should create demand from different markets.

What have been the biggest lessons you’ve learned having held leadership roles with The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain since 2015 and several admin & hotel management roles around the world prior to that?

Bahrain Confidential speaks to Alper Kucukbaycan, the new Complex Director of Operations of The Westin and Le Meridien Hotel City Centre.

Congratulations on your new appointment as Complex Director of Operations. Can you tell us about your role?

As the Complex Director of Operations at The Westin and Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain, I oversee the day-to-day processes for the properties’ rooms, spa, as well as food and beverage. I make sure to implement the best practices that I have acquired from my previous experiences to these new properties I am handling.

What do you plan to achieve as CDO of this property?

I plan to set new standards and bring back the numbers to pre-covid level as soon as possible. My strategy is to re-energize

The client is always right! Your angriest client is your best teacher for your business. I’ve also had a lot of opportunities to work with some of the greatest GMs which afforded me some skills that helped me enhance my knowledge and experience.

On a personal note, what is your favourite:

Movie: Sixth Sense Show: Football Song: Faded by Alan Walker

Cuisine: Mexican and Asian

Cocktail: Tropical Holiday destination: Anywhere quiet and green n

Interview 28 Bahrain Confidential October 2022

#BahrainBios

The Joy of Cycling! Getting to Know Sarah Cyclist

Feature 30 Bahrain Confidential October 2022

Cycling is not just a sport, it’s a lifestyle. Since she picked up her bike for the first time in 1999, Sarah AlSammak AKA Sarah Cyclist has pedalled her way to becoming the first Bahraini woman to ride a road bike, start a women’s only cycling group, and get certified as a coach.

Bahrain Confidential interviewed the cyclist to find out more about her love for cycling!

What inspired you into cycling?

I started cycling in Canada in 1999 when my father was there on his Sabbatical. The house he rented came with two bikes and I start riding with my brother

We used to document our rides with loads of fun pictures and videos while cycling! So girls around the island started writing to us to join us! The name came after my bike which is bright yellow and black – like a bumble bee! Hence ‘Cycling Bees’.

What’s your favourite cycling spot in Bahrain?

My favourite place to ride in Bahrain is Salman City because it’s quiet, green, and close to the sea!

What’s the toughest race you’ve been a part of?

The toughest has been Italy! I did the Maratona Des Dolomites in 2017 and I was the first Arab girl to conquer the Italian Alps with 6000 other riders!

What do you do (aside from cycling) and where do you go to relax in Bahrain?

I am a freelance cycling coach – qualified by British Cycling. My specialty is Bikeability classes which get people to feel comfortable riding bikes for the first time and have the confidence to ride on the roads. I believe cycling is a lifestyle not only a sport! I like to do activities with my 7-year-old daughter in my free time as she is an active person just like me!

downtown. I was amazed at how they respect cyclists!

I returned to Bahrain and got my bike from a local shop called Skate Shack (I was the first Bahraini girl to buy a road bike by then!)

What is the story behind your all-women cycling group – the Cycling Bees?

There were a lot of fast groups around here in Bahrain but nothing for beginners and nothing for women only. This led to the idea of building the first and only women’s riding group. We started it while my friend Dana was training for Bahrain Ironman 70.3 in 2017.

What are some tips you wish you knew that would help cycling beginners?

16 years ago, there weren’t a lot of girls on bikes in Bahrain and finding the right clothing was really hard! I remember riding my bike in regular trousers until I met an English friend on a bike and she asked me if I was wearing cycling shorts under my pants! I just turned to her and looked clueless! The moment I started wearing them was a game changer! So clothing is very important, especially in hot weather! n

Bahrain Confidential October 2022 31 Feature
There were a lot of fast groups around here in Bahrain but nothing for beginners and nothing for women only.

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