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Publishers: Nick Cooksey and Rebecca Smith Editor in Chief: Rebecca Smith Editorial: Melissa Nazareth Jenny Ann Thomas Layout and Design: Mohamed Nada Contributors David Hollywood John Ridley Enosh Kumar Maria Sorger Angela McDonough Rita Moussallem Nadine Compton Craig Heslop Sales Account Manager Zena Williams Sales Coordinator Smily Andrews Events Coordinator Mark Garcia Photographer Shareef Panhatt Business Development/ProDesign Dhanraj S. Distribution Mohammed Yousif Muhammed Shareef P Rafnaj
Editor’s
Letter Summer is officially here and we’re pleased to announce that this is our 150th issue! Wow where has the time gone? I still remember traipsing around in the searing heat, banging on agency doors with a mock up copy of Bahrain Confidential. That was over 13 years ago. To celebrate, we’ve packed the mag with great things to read, as usual and for all the GDN subscribers you can expect to see us land on your door step every month from now. On another note, last week, I read about how few dogs in a shelter over in Sa’ar died of heat exhaustion. I know how challenging it can be, especially when it comes to paying the vets and food bills. So one can only imagine how stressful it must be for a shelter that looks after over 400 strays and in this heat. It’s no surprise when they allegedly said that they needed at least 20 air-conditioners for their kennels, grooming rooms, feeding rooms and other facilities. These shelters are a social service initiative so isn’t it our moral and ethical responsibility to contribute and do our little bit towards supporting this cause? After all they’re God’s creatures too. Each month, we have a page dedicated to pets waiting to be homed. If you’d like adopt a furry friend or help the
nice people over at Sa’ar/Budaiya go to Pg 107 for contact info. We are set to welcome The Holy Month of Ramadan in June. Ramadan is a celebration of culture and tradition and that’s exactly what our Art Space highlights (Pg 30). The newly inaugurated ARTDIVANO is a concept showcasing the work of Arab artists, those who have made the Arab world their home and who are translating global heritage and culture using art as a medium. One can’t imagine Ramadan without food. Visit our Gastro pages (Pg 112) for an inclusive list of Ghabgas being hosted by the best in Bahrain! We also have some mouth-watering, healthy recipes (Pg 110 & 117) that you could try at home. Our health section (Pg 68) offers tips on how to stay fit and chirpy while fasting. We have a few new contributors on board this season. We’re so happy to be working with them as they bring their rich experience to our magazine through entertaining and informative columns spanning food, travel, luxury homes and investments, child care, art and all things lifestyle. Until we meet again – Ramadan Kareem!
Regional Sales-Point Distribution Bahrain: Al Hilal Corporation Tel. +973 1748 0800 UAE: Jashanmals Tel. +971 4341 9757 Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Art Space: ARTDIVANO
For Advertising Opportunities: Tel. +973 1782 2354 Email: sales@ArabianMagazines.com Published by:
Front Cover Credit: Brand: AFFFAIR A Division of C.G. Arabia W.L.L. P.O. Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. Tel. +973 1782 2388, Fax. +973 1772 1722 Email: info@ArabianMagazines.com Website: www.ArabianMagazines.com
@ConfidentialBah
Ministry of Information approval no. ISDN 99901-01-17-5 © Copyright 2008, C.G. Arabia W.L.L. 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.
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Contents JUNE 2015 ^/ISSUE 150 Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com
52 54 55 56 57 58
Desire Boutique Yours London Oysho TATI Women’Secret Santoni
HOMES 40 Marina Home Interiors 42 Dogtas
22
BEAUTY, HEALTH& WELL BEING 62 Beauty Buzz 68 Stay Fit During Ramadan
POEM Through These Mid-east Leaves 28 Sunlight By David Hollywood
CARS 105 Car News
COLUMNS 106 Letter From Bahrain By John Ridley 73 Rekindling The Soul By Rita Moussallem 64 Get Dirty & Get Out By Craig Heslop
GASTRO 112 Ramadan Tents 115 What to do before Ramadan?
JUICY PICKINGS 18 BC Goes Exploring 14 New in Bahrain 60 WIN!WIN!WIN! – Beauty Products! 38 In the Spotlight
ESSENTIAL LISTINGS Restaurants, 119 Recommended Nightspots, Essential Info, Beauty Spots, Sports and Fitness, Clubs and Associations.
ART SPACE: 30 ARTDIVANO FASHION 44 Affair 46 Saks Fifth Avenue 47 Salsa 48 Namshi 49 Promod 50 Lipsy
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readers’ letters
Ad Mad! I’m an advertising student from London. I came on a quick holiday to Bahrain last month. My friend’s getting married and I’m the best man! Anyway, I happened to go through your magazine. My friend says you guys are the best luxury-lifestyle title in the Kingdom – and I agree as I enjoyed reading your May issue. What I also noticed were the ads. Some of the designs were really striking and looked glamorous. Good job! Greg Working in the media, especially in this part of the world can be very challenging, Greg. We work with many rules! But 0we try to make our magazines as pleasing to the readers’ eyes as possible. Glad you enjoyed reading us. Come back to Bahrain soon!
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149 Issue
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zines a g a m n a rabi n info@a
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Destinations to Suit Everyone DELICIOUS HOME COOKING
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PS, I Love You My 12 year old is in love with Bahrain Confidential. Why? Well, you guys published some article, ‘My Son Can Play as Much Xbox as He Wants’. Haha! Jokes apart, love the article! It’s so true that kids need our time and if we can give them sufficient quality attention, they will not go looking for it in other places. Good job with the magazine. Sue We loved that one, as well! Kids, got to raise ‘em right – their the future afterall!
Body Lovin’
Loved the health feature in your May issue. I’ve always resented my body and standing in front of mirrors terrorises me. But after I read the article, ‘Stop the Body Hate’, I’ve accepted who I am. The acceptance was followed by motivation to work out and eat healthy. Finally, I’m on the right track. Lucy We’re so happy for you. Women (and men!) need to love themselves a little more. Who doesn’t have problem areas? But if you accept who you are – flaws and all – you can start correcting what needs to be corrected with a positive mindset. Wish you the best!
The Art Wants What the Art Wants Nice opinion piece on Malja, the art space in Amwaj. I’d been to the launch and liked the energy there. This article offered a different, bold perspective on what happens if art and corporate get together. Well, it has its pros and cons! Brave of you to publish an honest opinion, especially in this part of the world. Tattiana We’re happy to give our contributors the freedom to express their opinion. At the end of the day it's good print that sticks around.
148 Issue
F1 FEVER THE INSIDER’S GUIDE TO A GREAT TIME
REVAMP YOUR BODY THIS SUMMER
TOP PLACES TO DINE THIS MONTH Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion! BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20
8
June 2015
Do you love Bahrain Confidential? Now you can share your favourite photos/videos with us and our readers on @confidentialBAH @confidentialBAH Bahrain Confidential For interesting stories and daily updates visit bahrain-confidential.com
TEL:+973 17291039 Jaffar Pharmacy HOORA National Pharmacy SANAD Jaffar Pharmacy BUDAIYA Majeed Jaffar Pharmacy MUHARRAQ Ruyan Pharmacy SALMABAD Leena Pharmacy ADLIYA Atlas Pharmacy BUDAIYA ROAD BANI JAMRA
BC calendar
Not To Be Missed
JUNE
For more events, gastro, Ramadan tents & recipes turn to pages 112 - 117
WATCH OUT AT RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA!
subject to availability.
^ Summer Promotions Cool down your summer with this delightful package and relax with your family & friends. The Summer Promotion room package starts from BD45++ including breakfast or Suhoor until 16th September 2015. Rates are not valid during Eid Al Fitr and
^/?" / "(/O" : %v Guests now stand a chance to win free roundtrip tickets! During Ramadan, all guests who dine for Iftar or Ghabga will be automatically entered into a raffle draw to win an Etihad Airways ticket across Europe and Far East Asia. The more you dine, the more chances of winning!
02 self-help tool, A.S.K- A Serenity Kit.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF HABITS
Kelly Armitage will be hosting a free seminar on ‘The Psychology of Habits’, where she will be introducing her
When: 3rd June Where: Words Bookstore Café, Budaiya For more information or to register, call Tel.+973 1769 0790 Or visit www.aserenitykit.com
For more info, call Tel. +973 1711 1999 or email: reservation@rameegrandbahrain.com
The luxurious rooms at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa
03
RED BULL KITE THE WAJ BAHRAIN 2015 For the second consecutive year, Red Bull Kite The Waj, better known as the amateur kite surf competition is happening. It’s going to be exciting!
When: 4th-6th June Where: Amwaj Islands Follow the conversation: #KiteTheWaj
04 05 JJ’S 16TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
JJ’s celebrates their 16th year with the Irish legend, Paddyman, LIVE in Bahrain. Each year, the celebrations get bigger and better. So, get ready to eat as much as you want, dance with all your energy and party it up with style.
When: 5th June Time: 6pm onwards Price: BD5 at the door For more information, call Tel. +973 3932 9083 or +973 3384 3005. 10
June 2015
FASHION TIME EXHIBITION
Are you ready, for one of the most awaited events of the year. Fashion Time Exhibition will take place from the 25th till the 27th of June. For more information, call Tel. +973 1787 9391 or email: marketing@ft.bh Visit www.ftbh.net firsttargetbh
BC calendar
Not To Be Missed
JUNE
For more events, gastro, Ramadan tents & recipes turn to pages 112 - 117
TRIBAL FITNESS HOLIDAY CAMPS
Tribal Fitness is set to host junior camps that provide an insightful input into natural movement, food and living. The camp takes a maximum of 12 students and is designed to help your kid make a lifestyle change.
When: 5th-7th July with trainer, Danielle Love Time: 10am-2pm Price: BD90 When: 23rd-25th August with trainer, Craig Heslop Time: 10am-2pm Price: BD90
ARTBAHRAIN, BAHRAIN’S FIRST INTERNATIONAL ART FAIR
*Ages 6-12 only For more information, visit www.tribalfitness.com
06
The wait is over, you art fanatics; ArtBahrain has announced their fair’s dates. The fair will consist of galleries and artists from around the world. Along with them, ArtBahrain will also exhibit the opening of Sacha Jafri’s Eighteen Year Retrospective World Tour.
When: 13th-16th October
DESIRE BOUTIQUE WILL BE AT FASHION TIME
BOUTIQUE SALE
07 09
Desire Boutique will be part of “Fashion Time” exhibition. The exhibition will have a variety of popular brands and local start-up establishments that provide for women’s fashion needs.
When: 25th-27th June Where: Bahrain Exhibition Centre Time: 3pm-1am
it’s time to spend some money for a good cause. Yes, it’s time for the boutique sale! It will have second hand designer labels, shoes, bric-a-brac, electronics and more clothing. All proceeds will benefit The Dogfather’s Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre.
When: 13th June Where: Dilmun Club Time: 11am-3pm Price: 500 fils entry fee
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June 2015
08
new in town
NewTOWN In
Malabar Gold & Diamonds Opens A New Outlet
1 Prominent Indian film actress, Kareena Kapoor Khan inaugurated Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ in the presence of Shamlal Ahamed, Abdul Salam KP, Mohammed Rafeek, and other directors.
2 Rayogna Cafeteria
Rayogna is a newly opened cafeteria in Jid Ali. Since the name represents and means “our breakfast", this cafeteria serves sandwiches, fresh juices and hot drinks. Open Saturday – Thursday, 7am to 1pm and 5pm to 12am Fridays, 4pm to 12am. Contact +973 3433 1454 for take away orders.
14
June 2015
The famous Malabar Gold & Diamonds opened their 3rd showroom in Bahrain. This showroom is the 134th outlet in the world! Adding to the sparkle, Malabar Gold & Diamonds is participating in the unique festive campaign – ‘The Great Gold Rush’ that runs until 30th June 2015. This campaign gives customers an opportunity to charge their fortune by winning a whopping 25 kilos of gold. With every purchase of gold jewellery worth BD50, customers stand a chance to win 1/2 kg gold each in 2 raffle draws. Those who buy diamond jewellery worth BD 50 will get 2 raffle coupons and thus doubles the chance to win. With every BD500 spent on diamond jewellery, you can avail a free one-gram gold coin. This offer is valid until 6th June 2015 only. Available at Malabar Gold & Diamond showrooms across Bahrain.
#HMBalmaination
It’s true and it’s fantastic! H&M has announced its autumn guest collaboration with the Parisian house of Balmain. A veritable bastion of French luxury and under the creative directorship of young Olivier Rousteing, Balmain has grown into the global pop-culture phenomenon it is today. Some of the first pieces from the collection were revealed in May at The Billboard Music Awards. The collection will be made available from 5th November. Follow the story on social media #HMBalmaination.
3
Olivier Rousteing, Kendall Jenner & Jourdan Dunn
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new in town
Create Bahrain
It’s official! Jeo Productions is always up to something exciting. And this time, it’s with all Bahraini artists from all mediums. Create Bahrain is going to be a series of short videos featuring each artist, their form of art and interviews on why art is so important to them. Through this series, Jeo Productions hopes to build an international group of creative individuals that are dedicated to the improvement and redefinition of life! Jeo Productions will be working with Malja to make this series a fantastic one!
Artiqaz Jewellery Makes Its Debut in Bahrain Nida Arshad, a young entrepreneur introduced Bahrain to Artiqaz Jewellery. Targeting the young, vibrant women who use fashion to make a statement, this line embodies the concept of Mother Nature, a feminine interpretation of the natural world. It offers earrings, rings, neckpieces and bracelets incorporated into three collections: La fleur, papillon and celeste. The adornments are made from sterling silver, semi-precious stones, and fresh water pearls in 24 karat gold plating to create these one-of-a-kind pieces.
The stock will soon be stocked at Victory Route 88 Boutique in Al A’ali Mall.
4
5
Coming out soon in August. If you want to participate, call Jeo Productions on +973 1744 2900 Or email info@jeoproductions.com
Lacoste Launches The LT12 Racket
Celebrating the theme, ‘Life Is A Beautiful Sport’, Lacoste has recently launched the LT12 racket. This unique racket, which is a combination of wood and graphite, was created after three years of research. Three types of woods were combined with the High Modulus Graphite. Walnut wood ensures rigidity inside the racket and dampens string vibrations. Balsa wood and Lime Tree wood are used to dampen the vibrations of the overall structure. Graphite fibers are knitted as wool - a technique used only for the manufacturing of LT12. These are bonded to wood with resin. Graphite ensures better control and ball speed.
6 16
June 2015
Jaffar Pharmacy HOORA National Pharmacy SANAD Jaffar Pharmacy BUDAIYA Ruyan Pharmacy SALMABAD Majeed Jaffar Pharmacy MUHARRAQ Leena Pharmacy ADLIYA Atlas Pharmacy BUDAIYA ROAD BANI JAMRA
TEL:+973 TEL:+973 17291039 17291039
exploring
Goes Exploring So, every month, the team hits the road for a little bit of exploring. You would be surprised at how many new places have sprung-up in Bahrain. Here is what we discovered for this month! Wazzup Dog Yummy and Healthy
1
Wazzup Dog satisfies your hot dog cravings. A tiny diner in Juffair, Wazzup Dog is pretty creative with their menu and venue. From graffiti walls to luring promotions, this place could be your cheat day hangout.
0
The Wazzup Dog Rules: Step 1: Choose your sandwich; The Wazzup or The Southern? Step 2: Add your favorite toppings. Step 3: Need more? Add extras. Step 4: Definitely need a drink to go with it. Located in American Alley, Juffair For more information, call Tel. +973 1725 8667
2
Sugar Pie Bakery Love . Indulge . Repeat
We have heard a lot of talk about this bakery. They have some of the tastiest desserts around town as well as soft and fluffy desserts, along with some delicious macaroons and various other tidbits. People vow that this isn’t ‘Your Ordinary Dessert Shop’.
0
Located on Budaiya Highway, Jannusan For more information, call Tel. +973 1769 1789 sugarpiebakery
3
0 18
June 2015
UBER Your Ride, On Demand
Uber has taken over the world! No, but seriously they have. Now you don’t have to worry about driving back and forth. There’s Uber that will take care of you. All you have to do is, download the app, request, ride and pay via your mobile phone, and your ride will be at your doorstep in minutes. You can also choose the style of your car according to your budget, like the Uber X, which is better, faster and cheaper than a taxi! Available on App Store, Google Play and Windows Store uber_manama
sheer luxury
Luxurious Portugieser Watches Celebrating 75 years! IWC Schaffhausen is celebrating the 75th birthday of a watch family steeped in tradition. On the occasion of this important jubilee, IWC chooses Santoni’s excellence to emphasise a model that, thanks to its outstanding in-house technology, iconic design and impressive history, represents an international icon of the brand. The luxurious alligator leather straps made by Santoni are true masterpieces of craftsmanship and uniqueness, thanks to the nuanced shading of the leather, elaborately finished by hand, that makes every strap unique in its special patinalike shimmer with individual colour tones.
Available at luxury stores across Bahrain. Prices on request.
20
June 2015
sheer luxury
MANERO TOURBILLON LIMITED EDITION 2015 The Swiss watch manufacturer, Carl F Bucherer launched its own Tourbillon with an exclusive limited edition of 188 pieces.
With a new satin-brushed dial in a velvety brown colour, especially created for Carl F Bucherer, the Manero Tourbillon shines in unique splendor – a masterpiece of watchmaking craft.
Technical Features:
The Manero Tourbillon is a piece of elegance and
technical finesse. A circular cutout in the dial at 6 o'clock offers a view onto the fascinating moving heart of the Tourbillon. The numbers change position at 3 and 9 o'clock, allowing comfortable reading. The inhouse manufacture movement, CFB T1001 enables an average 70-hour power reserve. The remaining energy is displayed on the power reserve indicator at the 9
For more details and to purchase, visit: www.carl-f-bucherer.com
22
June 2015
o'clock position. The superior dial is complemented by a 24-hour display at 12 o'clock. The elegance of this limited beauty is skillfully portrayed with fine rose gold and, for the first time, with a satin-brushed dial in a velvety brown color, especially created for Carl F Bucherer.
Before 0 BD.136
Now 0 BD.68
n i de ey a M rk Tu
SITRA, Tel. +973 1773 1313 Mob. +973 3605 8111 Fax. +973 1791 1098 Enma Mall (Riffa), Tel. +973 7770 0111 Mob. +973 3605 8141 - Salmabad, Tel. +973 17689191 P.O Box 70157 Sitra Kingdom of Bahrain Website: www.dogtas.com DreamHomeBah
sheer luxury
TISSOT QUICKSTER LUGANO Tissot Quickster Lugano is a wonderful addition to the sporty Quickster family. The Tissot Quickster Lugano proudly features the bold number 12, reminding the person wearing it, just how much prestige Tissot awards to their timekeeping. Young trendsetters are definitely going to love the unique and edgy bezel design that allows the dial to be more easily admired, while an aluminium ring adds a cool edge. This watch perfectly marries functionality with stylish design.
Available at Rivoli- City Centre Bahrain, Rivoli- Enma Mall and Tissot- Seef Mall 24
June 2015
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sheer luxury
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These beautiful Mouawad rings are available at luxury stores in Bahrain. Prices on request. 26
June 2015
poem
SUNLIGHT THROUGH THESE MID-EAST LEAVES While living in exotic climes, My spirit leaps towards these rhymes, When seeing through this tree’s outline, The sun which shimmers thoughts sublime.
David Hollywood
Share your feedback with David via email: thewineappreciationsociety@gmail.com or call, Tel. +973 3920 7624
David Hollywood’s reflection this month is upon the soft breeze and summer sparkle we see between shimmering leaves.
28
June 2015
And as the flicker sparkles bright, Between the glistening and the light, I hold my gaze upon such sight, Observed through rustling leaves in flight. Encircling’s of a mellow breeze, Enfolds my contemplations – eased! And sense wherein this place perceives, Unhurried thoughts I’m free to please. As nature makes reflections stray, Away from off this ground today, I feel the uplift takes my stay, Toward a lightness far away.
art space
The Passion For Art ARTDIVANO began in January 2013 as the brainchild of Marion Labani and Afaf Zainalabedin, to further develop the concept of an art lounge. talks to these entrepreneurs who are truly inspired by art.
30
June 2015
art space
Archival Fine Art Reproductions by one of the finest Bahraini calligraphers, Abbas Yousif.
The concept of ARTDIVANO
ARTDIVANO’s concept and philosophy is based on taking artworks by Arab artists and artists who have chosen the Arab world as their home or who are translating the world’s heritage and culture into a unique language of colours and materials onto a new level. The ‘DIVAN’ envisions the traditional way of storytelling in the Arab world and ARTDIVANO spreads the story of art by and from the region, carrying the tradition from the past into the present and future. With the motto of ‘The Passion for Art’, this gallery is driven by a strong expertise yet deep emotional approach on art and a belief that art without passion is nothing. So, this passion for art brought myself, a German residing in Bahrain and a Bahraini lady, to embark on a professional life in art, with art and for art.
The Idea of ARTDIVANO and Services Provided
ARTDIVANO is primarily an Art consultancy, an Archival Ink Studio and will also soon be an Online Gallery. We want to establish ourselves apart from the Art consultancy services and would like to be known locally and regional as one of the best art - and art service providers based in the Middle East. ARTDIVANO was set up to continue with Marion’s works in further developing an art consultancy where we could offer beginning to end solutions for client projects, art programs including design, customising, production and installation of artworks whether in hotels or private villas. In addition we formed ARTDIVANO to introduce to Bahrain and to the region, Archival Pigment Ink Fine Art - and Photography Reproductions. This technique of Art Reproduction is very well known and recognised in Europe and the US. This is to make art more accessible and more affordable to a wider range of art lovers. In case you admire the artwork of one artist very much but you may not be able to afford an original, a reproduction of selected artworks would be exactly what you would have been looking for. And, maybe a wonderful reproduction would be the first piece of artwork you purchase starting your very own private collection. ARTDIVANO issues reproductions of originals and originals as well, which are solely in our rights to reproduce as limited editions on Fine Art Paper or Exhibition Canvas, and we issue a certificate along with it to guaranty long lasting colourfastness and genuineness. We launched recently and have been starting to introduce a beautiful calligraphy series in ink on paper by one of the finest calligrapher of Bahrain. His work is amongst others collected by the British Museum in London. The artworks he did for ARTDIVANO are depicting poetry by Khalil Gibran and will be available as originals and Archival Fine Art Reproductions in 2 sizes. The series of poetry will be continued and will be launched at ART BAHRAIN, where we aim to participate. June 2015 31
art space Photography series by L. Marshall, a South African photographer residing in Bahrain.
Marion Labani and Afaf Zainalabedin
A painting by Abbas Yousif and a sculpture by Khalid Farhan.
For more information, visit @artdivano @artdivano Or email Afaf at afaf@artdivano.com ; Tel: +973 3961 2886 and Marion at marion@artdivano.com; Tel: +973 3921 2060. 32
June 2015
interview
Home Away From Home Guests recently voted Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa as a top-performing hotel on Booking.com. Ali Al Jazzazi, Director of Sales & Marketing shares what he likes about the brand and his journey so far. The journey so far... I started my career in Abu Dhabi 17 years ago.
My first job was as a receptionist with a meager salary until I was noticed by one of my superiors. That’s when I got into sales. I’ve worked with quite a few well-known names in the hospitality industry in Jordan and Saudi Arabia as well.
Love affair with hospitality... I love hospitality and service,
and want to continue in this industry. It’s the only field where you meet new people of all nationalities. Service is about attention to detail. Guests want to feel at home and it’s all about providing them a home away from home.
Food, food, food... I love food especially Indian food – dal makhni, biryani..you name it! No points for guessing my favourite restaurant at Ramee Grand (Rasoi – the Indian restaurant)!
Most cherished career experience... I headed the team for the successful opening of Anantara Hotel in Abu Dhabi, which is a milestone. I’m also proud of the achievements by my team at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. For instance, our recent award by Booking.com, which was purely based on good feedback from our guests. Role at Ramee Grand... I look after sales as well as marketing. It
all boils down to marketing to the right clientele – smart marketing. We need to study the market to know where we can drive the business. For instance, there is no point to promote in a Scandinavian market, as we have no direct flights to those countries. That’s why we are more focused on the near by areas including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait which is our main feeder market. Recently, our national carrier launched a direct flight to Moscow so that’s a new destination for us to focus on when we promote the hotel. Hopefully it will make a difference to the business.
Overcoming all challenges... Our main feeder market is still not too interactive for several reasons. But the tourism authorities and government are working on this. On a micro level, we as a hotel focus on companies and groups in the region who hold trainings at our hotel. The government is organising a lot of events as well and we support them in every way. For instance, we participated with the tourism authorities in a travel show in Riyadh. Another example is the F1 – business was great for us because we offered our guests great value and service. Ramadan at Ramee Grand... We’re expecting to do better than last year this Ramadan. We’ve tied-up with Etihad airways and will have weekly raffles. Our expert chefs will cook a variety of delicious cuisines – Arabic, Asian, European and others. Our Iftars and Ghabgas are going to be great too! In addition to Ramadan we also have a host of summer offers to watch out for. Don’t miss the events at Ibrida just before Ramadan!
Unique Selling Proposition... Our rooms are really huge not to forget luxurious. Our hotel’s location offers easy access to the island’s hubs. We also have a varied range of restaurants offering cuisines from different countries. 34
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Ali Al Jazzazi
To book a room at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa or dine at one of its restaurants, call Tel. +973 1711 1999
opinion
THE STRIKING AL FATEH GRAND MOSQUE BY NADINE COMPTON
Nadine Compton
One of the most striking landmarks you see as you drive into the country’s capital is Al Fateh Grand Mosque. It’s huge! According to the website, it can hold up to 7,000 worshipers.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque
A
fter years of driving by it and never once visiting, I decided to check it out with a friend one afternoon. The parking lot was just as large, so there was LOTS of parking space and room for me to photograph the whole structure. Unfortunately that didn’t work because I’m a writer (duh) not a photographer, and my friend was getting impatient so we just went on inside. At the reception desk, I was required to wear an abaya and hijab (like all female visitors), which are provided by the employees. We were then taken on a tour. Unfortunately, the tour guide only seemed interested in telling us which parts of the mosque were imported from which country, instead of informing us about its history. “Oh this beam of wood was shipped
from the Indian forests and this marble was imported from the last known marble quarry in Italy.” I’m sure the guide was proud of it and of course the construction of any historical building is important, but he was needlessly boasting when he didn’t need to. The mosque’s beauty spoke for itself. In case you get the same guide that we did, here’s some historical information: The mosque is part of the Ahmed Al Fateh Islamic Center, which was named after Sheikh Ahmed, the first Al-Khalifa ruler of Bahrain. The mission of the center is to promote factual knowledge of Islam and to present the kingdom as a tolerant and multiculturally diverse community. The center includes the mosque itself, a department for Qur’anic studies and an Islamic library. It was opened in 1988 by Sheikh Issa bin Salman Al-Khalifa. While the tour guide was going on and on about handblown round lamps from France, the call to prayer started * Please note that these are not the publisher’s opinions.
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which effectively brought our tour to the end. It wasn’t a great way to finish our visit and if it wasn’t for the guide, I’d imagine my impression of the mosque would be similar to that of the cathedrals my parents dragged my brother and I to during summer vacations, the kinds of old structures with high ceilings that inspired awe and quiet reflection.
If you want to visit Al Fateh Grand Mosque, you can do so every day except Friday and public holidays from 9:00 to 4:00. I’d suggest you visit well before prayer time so that your tour isn’t cut short like mine was. A handy timetable is provided on the center’s website at www.alfateh.gov.bh. Unfortunately all visitors must be accompanied by a tour guide, so tough luck if you thought you’d get away with a pair of headphones and an audio guide.
British School of Bahrain ‘Celebrating 20 years of British Educational Excellence’ “AN OUTSTANDING SCHOOL”- The Bahrain QQA,2012
AN OUTSTANDING BRITISH CURRICULUM SCHOOL WHERE STUDENTS COME FIRST We pride ourselves on achieving excellence and shaping students who take responsibility for themselves and others. We offer GCSEs, A’ levels and BTEC qualifications and have students from 70 nationalities between the ages of 3-18 learning and growing together on one campus in Hamala. As an IB Diploma candidate school, we embrace individuality and diversity whilst recognising that people with opinions different from our own can also be right.
EXPLORE, LEARN AND GROW While under the umbrella of the British School of Bahrain, the BSB Easter, Summer and Winter Camps, Sports and Music Academy at the BSB is open to all children living in Bahrain. The academies offer a range of sporting, teakwondo, karate, musical, dance, drama and creative classes, for children and adults.
Admissions: +973 1761 0944 Email: admissions@thebsbh.com HR: hrcv@thebsbh.com
Years Anniversary Since 1995
Academies: +973 1761 0943/ 73 Email: academies@thebsbh.com www.britishschoolbahrain.com
thebsbh
SportsAcademyBSB/BSBAPA
BritishSchoolBahrain
British School of Bahrain
talent
Each month, we bring you one ordinary reader who wows you with his/her extraordinary talent. This month we put...
Ali ‘Fingerz’ Esbai
In The Spotlight The pseudonym 'Fingerz'…
My last name is Esbai, which translates to ‘of the finger’. Guess one of my ancestors had a unique sense of humour (smiles)! Actually, Fingerz was what my friends called me in school. Initially, it used to annoy me but then it grew on me.
One head, many hats…
I’ve been fascinated by the performing arts since forever! My mother managed the Salman Cultural Centre for Children and that’s where I spent most of my growing years. I developed a taste for being on stage and entertaining people. I then moved on to school plays, cartoon creation, hosting events, music, stand-up comedy, Thai boxing, Capoeira (Brazilian martial art), short films...
Get up, ‘Stand up’…
I dabbled into stand up when I was in college. I was at this bar in Dublin where one of the guys asked me to crack one of my popular jokes in front of the audience. When I did, everyone loved it and that was the start! Stand up comedy opened a lot of doors for me. I got a break as a voice over artist, writer and actor. I started Comedy Connect with the vision to offer local and regional artists a small, friendly venue with a cozy atmosphere, and guests, affordably priced tickets. Imran Al Aradi is doing the same thing with his open mic nights. We are all working toward the same goal – a proper local stand up comedy circuit and strong foundation for stand up. Also, comedy inspired by local experiences is what audiences are looking for as it brings out what the country is about.
Misfitz Comedy…
I just launched the Misfitz Comedy project, a sketch comedy show on Instagram lasting 15 seconds per sketch. I've put the team together over the past year. The creative flow is collaborative and everybody has a piece of the pie. Tarik 'Rick' Sharif (co-writer and actor on A Heated Interview) has been with me from day one as have few of my other friends. Rick and I have been writing and executing our sketches together. The help and support of all of these guys is what really made me believe that we can establish this creative platform where all our ideas materialise. All suggestions are
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considered and we all play different parts in the production and execution of it. We'll be publishing one episode a week. You can follow us on Instagram @misfitz.comedy. We chose the name Misfitz, as we don’t want to be restricted by any boundaries like cultural or geographical. We live in a ‘misfit’ universe where anything can happen and that’s what we intend to portray in our sketches.
A Heated Interview...
Most people loved that style of comedy in a local setting. People from the entertainment field were also very supportive and enthusiastic about it. The best part was that it was a collaborative effort of different people within the GCC. The underlying message of the film is something we all can relate to in the region – racism. Though there were a few who added that they would have liked to see more of Arabic in the video, which was completely in English.
Music & Martial Arts…
I was a hip-hop artist with Outlaw productions for a long time and wrote many rap songs. I was also part of a few heavy metal bands (smiles) as a lyricist and vocalist. I’ve done Thai boxing for a good 7 years until I met my love, Capoeira, which I’ve been practicing for almost 6 years now.
Racism and Racists…
I come from a culturally mixed family and Bahrain has always been a melting pot of different cultures due to its history and geographical location. I believe this is what helps me respect other human beings and appreciate our differences. I think racists should be shipped off to a distant planet with no food supply.
Hacking the hecklers…
I once used a hecklers girlfriend to deal with him for me. He was yelling obscenities and instead of answering him I asked his woman if she enjoys having her man embarrass them in public like that. They came up to me after the show to apologise and we actually had a laugh about it. This couple now shows up to almost all the stand up shows we have.
My biography would be named… Fingerz Crossed (with a photo of me crossing Jid-Ali road in Isa town)
home furniture
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June 2015
home furniture
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home style
Kids Land Spark The Imagination Within Your Child Everywhere you see, super heros and fictional characters are inspiring kids- Batman, Spiderman, Red Riding Hood, and many more. Styling your child’s bedroom with their favourite fictional character sounds just about perfect, don’t you think? This is where Doğtaş comes in. They carry an exciting range of kid’s furniture that is bound to make your little one smile. Available at Enma Mall, Tel. +973 7770 0111 and Sitra, Tel. +973 1773 1313 For more information, visit www.dogtas.com 42
June 2015
FASHION FASHION TIME
TIME EXHIBITION 25th TILL 27th OF JUNE 2015 3 : 00 Pm
to
1 : 00 Am
Public Invitation Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Center
F i r s t T ar g e t B h +973 17879391
@ first.mk @ f t . b h
www. ftbh. net
fashion
AFFFAIR THE TURKISH FASHION HOUSE
AFFFAIR, the rising Turkish Fashion House recently took over the region after the highly anticipated launch of their Urban Luxury Men’s 2015-2016 Fall/Winter Collection.
Established in 2014, AFFFAIR is a brand with a global vision and touch that is born from the “Contemporary Classic” inspiration of two talented designers: Azerbaijani Rufat Ismayil - former top model and garment producer, and Ali Behnam Bakthiar – a UAE resident, who started his career in Paris by developing creative projects for top couture houses. Based in Istanbul, the brand embraces Istanbul’s diversity, and combines contemporary and traditional elements. Their latest collection is for the sophisticated man. The modern AFFFAIR man is dandy and charismatic, and attracts attention by his strong character and personality.
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Prices start at an approximate minimum of BD35. Available at www.affair.com
fashion
June 2015 45
fashion
#
TrendAlert: Boho Chic Athena Procopiou BD190
Aquazzura BD166 Saint Laurent Paris BD741
Schutz BD61
Prices for the ChloĂŠ bags on the models available on request. All items available at Saks Fifth Avenue, City Centre Bahrain 46
June 2015
fashion
NEED SOME
SALSA IN YOUR LIFE #DenimandColours. Find your perfect fit at #Salsa.
Available at City Centre Bahrain
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fashion
Pearls And Portraits
Inspired by everything from pearl divers to jewellery shop front windows and more, these picturesque prints portray a story through each extraordinary piece. These newly launched pieces at Namshi, Pearls and Portaits capture an elegant female aesthetic with bold statement designs!
BD77
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Available on www.namshi.com
fashion
Hit The Stores Now! Promod’s alluring new collection is going to make the ladies shopaholics.
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Available at Promod stores across Bahrain. Prices which are not mentioned, available on request. June 2015 49
fashion
TOP OF YOUR LUST LIST Lipsy Spring/Summer 2015 showcases the new season's styles that will impact any wardrobe. This season, Lipsy is set to excite us with a stunning new range of fashion pieces that are sure to top every lust list!
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fashion
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fashion BD25
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DESIRE BOUTIQUE Venture out this summer to the recently launched boutique and find your perfect dress.
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BD25
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DO NOT MISS Desire will be part of "Fashion Time" exhibition from the 25th-27th of June. The exhibition will have a variety of popular brands and local start-up establishments that provides for women's fashion needs. For more information, call Tel. +973 1744 2345 Located in Juffair, Al Raya Mall, 2nd Floor E-mail: Desireboutiquebh@gmail.com Desire Boutique BH, @Desire_Boutique_bh
fashion
Yours London Summer 2015
The hit trends this season for plus size women are definitely classic monochrome and fresh nautical. Yours London brings to you navy white colours, Brenton tops, denim jackets, cute dresses and much more! BD19.9
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June 2015
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fashion
Oysho Gymwear Studio SS15 BD8.900
A collection inspired by the world of dance, Oysho’s new Gymwear features garments that adapt to the body’s movements for maximym subtlety and a truly natural feel. BD15.900 BD15.900
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Located at City Centre Bahrain June 2015 55
fashion
Look Right. Gym Right
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We completely agree. To be fit, one needs to look good and feel good in their attire. It plays a major part in motivation. Ask anyone! TATI brings to you affordable gym wear that ticks all the right boxes.
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Available at City Centre Bahrain 56
June 2015
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fashion
WOMEN’SECRET 2015 Comfy and feminine, the new women’secret collection is perfect for those warm summer nights!
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Available at women’secret outlets across Bahrain June 2015 57
fashion
Pieces Of Timeless Charm Santoni S/S 15
High sandals boast seductive interlaces underlined by leather. Woven peep toes feature high stiletto heels. Straps wrap the ankle and multiple strips reveal the foot while concealing it. Pumps present a new strong heel. The S/S 15 Santoni Collection creates a vibrating aesthetic that stems from exquisite craftsmanship.
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June 2015
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Ramadan Kareem
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beauty
Let Your Lashes Talk
We tell you the story of ‘The Arabian Beauty’ Nadia Khalil of Blending In With The Bahrainis fame is also the Founder of Arabian Beauty Cosmetics. The half Bahraini and half English entrepreneur has for the longest time been madly in love over eyelashes. Our eyes do half the talking, which is why your eyes need to be the first part of your body that you pamper. This is the short story version of how Nadia Khalil took the step of making her passions and dreams a reality. It all started when Nadia one day had come across a lady in a traditional burqa. The lady’s eyes did most of the talking; she had deep brown eyes that were emphasized with shimmery earthy tones and long beautiful and dramatic eyelashes. With such a powerful and strong look, her eyes spoke of confidence, glamour and fascination. That incident is what drove Nadia to be the successful enetrepreur she is today. Nadia Khalil launched Arabian Beauty Cosmetics to give women everywhere the opportunity to share the feeling of empowerment and confidence with her products. Arabian Beauty has quite the collection of lashes. Each style has gone through detailed processing and scrutiny to make sure the style, name and colour are apt for each product. Each element is heavily influenced by the Arab culture with a touch of Western in them.
The Arabian Beauty Line Aysha: These eyelashes are light and charming, which will give yourself the natural look. Bayan: Inspired by her best friend, the lashes are long and natural with a flare towards the outer lash. Eman: Light and long lashes, making your eyes look irresistible.
WINWINWINWINWINWINWINWINWINWINWIN
Jameela: As the name suggests, these lashes are stunning and beautiful, perfect for both a day and night look.
WIN WIN WIN
Layla: These thick and long lashes create a dramatic and captivating look.
If you want to look stunning, answer the below question and stand a chance to win the beautiful lashes from Arabian Beauty Cosmetics.
Mariam: Apt for the strong businesswoman, this set looks gorgeous. Nadia: Inspired by Nadia herself, these lashes are of an evening kind of look, being heavier towards the outer lash giving you the seductive look.
Which range of lashes is inspired by the Founder of Arabian Beauty Cosmetics?
Rania: Quite simply put, these lashes are fit for a Queen. Sahara: These corner lashes are light and fun that will give you the endearing yet flirty look. Yasmine: These lashes are light and airy, minus the flare. It enhances the natural look and is good for both a day and night look. So, go on, order yourself one. It’s #BahrainConfidentialApproved. 60
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a) Mariam For more information, visit www.arabianbeautyonline.com or email: info@arabianbeautyonline.com Or call +973 3985 9856
b) Nadia
c) Bayan
Send in your answers with your full name and contact details to competition@arabianmagazines.com
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beauty
BLUE SKIES & BLOSSOMS BY JO MALONE
1 3 2 4
BD40
The three scents by Jo Malone will captivate you with the playful and carefree feeling of spring. Sakura Cherry Blossom, a delicate floral scent, Exotic Osmanthus Blossom, a succulent Peach note and Plum Blossom with its juicy yellow plum are all part of the Limited Edition by Jo Malone. Get it while you can!
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GHASHAAA OIL MAKES ITS DEBUT
Junaid Perfumes has launched their latest creation, the unisex Ghashaaa oil. This oil is the perfect blend of traditional Arabian oils. It opens with a breathtaking aroma of sweet amber that leads to an attractive scent of the aromatic oud, which spreads to a warm and gentle base note of the famous warm Arabian musk.
FACE TOUCH UP PALETTE
Bakhoor Al Khaleej is an attractive, long lasting incense that diffuses exotic aromas of an exceptional blend of sweet, woody amber that is combined with authentic earthy oud, along with soft and intimate saffron that gives you a sophisticated feel.
Bobbi Brown’s new Face Touch Up Palette is a lifesaver for those who want to achieve a flawless complexion quickly while you’re on-the-go. This is the perfect portable skin perfector. The go-to mirrored palette features Bobbi’s best selling corrector, creamy concealer, skin foundation stick and sheer finish pressed powder in skin tone shades. Layer it up and look like a beauty!
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BAKHOOR AL KHALEEJ BY JUNAID PERFUMES
beauty
CLARINS BODY SHAPING CREAM
Don’t we all want those shapely curves and elegant lines? That is exactly why Clarins created the Body Shaping Cream. This body massage cream is designed to reduce those stubborn curves mainly located in the abdomen, waist, hips, arms and knees. Here’s to your new lease on life.
5
7 6
SUPER RESTORATIVE TOTAL EYE CONCENTRATE
KNOT BY BOTTEGA VENETA
50ml - BD42.1 75ml - BD53.8
THE PERFECTLY DEFINED LONG-WEAR BROW PENCIL
This roll up brow pencil is as the name suggests and gives your brows the perfect definition, staying that way for 16 hours! The creamy texture of the pencil melts into your skin and is sweat an waterproof, humidity resistant and doesn’t fade. We love it because it’s just what we want for this hot, hot weather.
BD21
Inspired by the Venetian glasswork and traditional Italian carafe is the bottle of Knot, while the cap was designed to pay homage to Bottega Veneta’s beloved Knot clutch. The fragrance of Knot depicts an escape to the Italian Riviera.
Clarins has developed a formula with the power of plants that targets the entire eye area from temple to temple to push away any visible signs of aging. They bring back your youth with ingredients like Harungana, Silktree and Guarana.
9 8 All products are available at leading beauty stores across Bahrain.
THE BRILLIANT GAME BY DAVIDOFF
The Brilliant Game is a new chapter in Davidoff’s The Game saga. This perfume is based on an Americano cocktail accord and is inspired by “this incredible moment in a game when you feel confident, positive and victory is just a natural consequence”.
60ml - BD27.7 100ml - BD36.9
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health
Get Dirty and Get Out By Craig Heslop
Have you or your children been sick within the last twelve months? If the answer is yes, you will want to read on! When we are sick with the flu or a cold, our immune system has been defeated. This battle takes us from inflammation or infection to a place homeostasis or health. If you continue to get sick we know your immune system is weak and we need to strengthen it. Let's look at some natural solutions that don’t require any pills or potions. as white blood cells, don’t get to see any action. Like a soldier who is not battle-hardened, your immune system becomes weak. As in the military, our immune system is made up of several units. The first is the rapid response unit or the imminent immune system. They deal with immediate issues like a scraped knee. They kill off foreign invaders and dispose of damaged tissue. Secondly, we have the special ops guys or adaptive immune system. These guys are the smarts and they memorize past battles. They neutralize offending organisms with stealth precision. Unfortunately many immune systems today do not get to see much front live action. The problem then occurs when someone is exposed to a serious infection. Their troops are weak and they get sick. It may be somewhat of as surprise that conditions such as asthma, allergies and even autism are affected by our immune system. They are the result of inflammation and autoimmune function. We see much lower rates of these conditions amongst people who have been regularly exposed to a wide range of bacteria. Children with dogs have a stronger immune system, as do those who grow up on a farm. Children even have a natural instinct to consume random organic matter to strengthen their immune system. This often results in a scolding from an adult and the
Craig Heslop
matter being extracted from their mouth! Alongside dirt, our good friend, Vitamin D, strengthens the immune system. The extreme heat of the Middle¬-East summer means many of us will stay indoor during much of the daylight hours. This means little sun and a vitamin D deficiency. The production of vitamin D is initiated when one’s skin is exposed to sunlight. The epidermis then converts cholesterol product into vitamin D. This is then distributed to cells around the body. As discussed vitamin D is crucial for a strong immune system, cell growth, bone strength, lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of type I diabetes. A 2006 Archives of Internal Medicine study showed that 77% of Americans were vitamin D deficient. A common dogma that the sun is bad for us has made many people avoid the outdoors. Regular smart exposure, i.e. not burning, is the easiest way to get enough vitamin D. This might be 15 minutes for one person and 60 minutes for another. Everyone is different. For both dirt and sunlight, the poison is really in the dosage. Get none at all and you are very sick. Get too much and it could become dangerous. Find a balance that suits you and you will have the strongest immune system in town!
Here are my top 3 tips to strengthen your immune systems: - Enjoy daily sun exposure without burning. In the summer months an early morning walk is perfect. t seems that we live in a germaphobe society today. Excessive washing, anti-bacterial and antibiotic use, are all used liberally. There are two huge problems associated with this excessive sanitation. Firstly, medicines like antibiotics are indiscriminate killers. They kill the good, the bad and the ugly bacteria. Have you ever noticed that you frequently get sick again shortly after taking antibiotics? They are like a nuclear bomb to the gut. I accept that they are sometimes necessary, but in my opinion they are over prescribed. Secondly, excessive sanitizing means your body does not get exposed to the wide range of bacteria. In this instance, your body’s guards, leukocytes, often referred to
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- Get dirt under your nails every week. This might be gardening, playing ball outside or swimming in the sea. - Avoid excessive use of anti-bacterial soap and wipes. Germ phobia will not enable your immune system to grow stronger.
Craig Heslop is Founder of and Coach at Tribal Fitness. Visit www.tribalfitness.com
health updates
WHY IS WHEATGRASS A SUPERFOOD? Some people call it the ‘Elite Wheat’. Wheatgrass is a baby wheat plant that is harvested when it has reached its nutritional peak. Juice bars all over the world have started to incorporate this superfood in their green juices. We give you the NEED-TO-KNOW on wheatgrass. Trust us, this is going to be worth your time!
From the very beginning of wheatgrass’s life, it is packed with so much nutritional power.
Nutrient Provider
Wheatgrass in its purest form contains Vitamin A, C, E, K and the eight B Vitamins. In addition to that, it also provides minerals like iron, magnesium, calcium and selenium. It is known to be a great source of amino acids, which are said to be the building blocks of protein. The more commonly known fact is that wheatgrass contains chlorophyll, which is the pigment that makes the wheat green! Now, chlorophyll is believed to increase the oxygen levels in the blood, contains enzymes and super-oxide dismutase
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that is a copper- containing protein powder that decomposes superoxide radicals in the body into a more manageable form, in other words, it slows down the aging process. Chlorophyll is the first product of light and that is why, it contains more light energy than any other food element. It is anti-bacterial and is used inside and outside the body as a natural healer. It neutralizes toxins in the body, purifies the liver and improves blood sugar problems.
Antioxidant Benefits
To achieve its complete antioxidant effects, opt for either fresh- sprouted wheatgrass and powdered wheatgrass for its complete antioxidant content. The antioxidant of the wheatgrass reduced cell oxidation.
health updates
Contains Anti-Cancer Compounds It’s true. There have been proven reports where patients who consumed wheatgrass on a regular basis actually experienced tumor shrinkage. Isn’t that awesome?! They say wheatgrass juice could actually prevent bone marrow toxicity that chemotherapy can cause. This was tested on breast cancer patients who were undergoing chemotherapy. Gradually the patients on the wheatgrass juice regime ended up taking smaller doses of chemotherapy and then ended the treatment prematurely.
Other Effects: ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/
= 31%/" /+"Ă % " < 5" " %/ $ / 3 /9#33% -1( 7 %/#( $(" "% ?$ # Ă (#%%/,Ă&#x20AC;" / # /+"%% 37 / $ /% #(%/ $# /#( / formed in the lungs from breathing acid gasses. ;Ă&#x20AC;( %/# /%-#33/#- Ă&#x20AC; / /9$ # Ă (#%%/,Ă&#x20AC;" /" /6 Ă&#x20AC;(/+" / # / help prevent tooth decay. ;# /% $ /#/% ( / $( # ( 7 %/6 Ă&#x20AC;(/$#"(/ ( -/Ă (#6" Ă ! Ă Ă&#x20AC;3#(/" #: / /9$ # Ă (#%%/ # /$ 31/" /9 "Ă $ / loss.
Now that we told you about this super food, go ahead and incorporate it in your everyday life. ^/ /6 Ă&#x20AC;/#( /#/%- $" /1 (% Z/#++/#/ #%1 / of wheatgrass powder to your smoothies ( two teaspoons if you want a booster). ^/ ++/" / /6 Ă&#x20AC;(/1( " /%$#: ^/ E"5/" /" /6 Ă&#x20AC;(/ # - #3 ^/ / #%1 / /9$ # Ă (#%%/" /6 Ă&#x20AC;(/ - ( /% Ă&#x20AC;1/ # / do wonders. ^/ (/,Ă&#x20AC;% /$#7 /" /,Ă&#x20AC;" +/# +/$#7 /" /3": /#/%$
June 2015 67
health
How to Stay Healthy While Fasting This Ramadan? While fasting, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s essential to eat good, nutrient-rich food that provides the necessary energy to get through the day especially the very hot ones. Here are some recommended top tips for eating healthy when you break the fast.
Eat Real Food, Not Processed & Junk Foods
Processed and junk foods like canned food, chips and desserts basically contain no nutrients so should not be eaten in large quantities. It will not give you energy. It will have the opposite effect. Instead, buy fresh fruits and veggies from the local stalls. Furthermore, when you eat food that is packed with nutrition, you'll feel more satisfied and have more energy.
Avoid "White" Foods
White foods (i.e., white bread, white rice, white sugar, etc.) White breads are made from white flour, which is processed and stripped of the nutrition that should be in bread and the same goes for rice and even the type of sugar you use. Instead, choose breads from whole grains and organic brown rice (even basmati).
Know the Foods That Hydrate Your Body
When fasting, we're slowly being dehydrated over the course of the day, so once we break our fast and during the non-fasting period we need to have foods that put water into our body, not deplete it further. It can be difficult to eat a lot of watermelon or squash, even though they're super-hydrating foods, but you can make juices out of the fruits and soups out of the 68
June 2015
vegetables to give your body the additional water it needs. Avoid salty spice mixes that sneak their way into our rice and meat dishes. They will make you thirstier afterwards. A great way to break the fast is to enjoy your favorite dates with coconut water itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s super-hydrating. Consider limiting coffee and tea which are very dehydrating to the body, to about half of what you normally drink.
Avoid Fried & Sugary Foods
Fried foods are heavy in oil and that makes them harder to digest, especially when they're the first foods to be eaten after a long fast. Try to avoid sweets and cakes. Swap it for a fruit which will benefit you while fasting.
Go Easy on the Carbs
Carbohydrates are converted into sugars and can eventually take their toll on your body after you've finished
eating. When you do have your carbohydrates, be sure to pair them with protein-rich foods like beans, meat or eggs to balance the meal.
Tips:
^/ Eat slowly. The longer you chew your food, the less work your digestive track needs to do, absorbing more nutrients. ^/ Don't skip Suhoor it will give you the energy you need for your daily activities while fasting. ^/ Exercise but be careful not to overdo it. Light exercise helps maintain your energy level when you are not consuming food. ^/ Eat normal portion sizes. It should consist of a normal serving or less. Eating too much can create an overload of sugar in the blood and cause damage to the body.
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health
YOUR HEALTH IS A QUESTION OF BALANCE
sits down with Dr Jamilla Al Qaseer, Founder & Director of The Health House to discuss Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy, commonly known as BCST. Dr Al Qaseer maintains that she is the first Arab Holistic healer in the Gulf region and amongst the first people who brought BCST, Reiki and several other natural approaches to the Kingdom.
M
ost of us are born healthy and it stays that way for most of our early life. But as we grow older, we gradually lose all the required attributes due to unhealthy food choices, stress and
much more. Knowing and understanding our bodies is not an easy task. One of the most common pervasive ailments in modern times is stress or tension. When a person is tense, his vital forces become erratic. The health rays are wavy rather than straight and their inner energy is extremely low. During this time, if the person experiences repeated emotional traumas, he eventually show symptoms of compulsive behavior and other diseases. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy tries to reduce or prevent these unpleasant experiences from occurring. We remove the work-or and home-related stress, find the harmony within life, and achieve results therapeutically through internal balancing. As a Holistic Healer, our theme is "Your health, it is a question of balance". Health is their down Matrix. Our job is to perceive and resonate the potency and health in the client. This process involves resolving the issue and expressing harmonious ratio within the three layers of the body. Look for potency in point of balance, within body's fluids. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST) is a subtle, gentle, yet deeply effective bodywork approach that is fast gaining popularity worldwide as a non-invasive choice of treatment. It is paramedical and recognised under complimentary and alternative medicine. Human life and health is dependent upon the craniosacral system within the body. It is medically acknowledged as a natural, continuous body rhythm that promotes and maintains life in the body (along with the respiratory and circulatory systems). Through BCST, these distress emotional trauma cases are holistically connected with feelings sensing perception and knowledge, by creating a balanced body synchronisation and evaluation treatment process. BCST acts as buffer against stress-related hormones. It will help create peaceful sleep, and it is said that during that sleep, many important 70
June 2015
health rejuvenating substances are created that will improve the quality of life. What does this mean to you? It means that BCST can dramatically lower stress by regulating biodynamic, which will regulate biochemical source of stress, and also increase both longevity and well being! Since negative emotions play an important factor in various severe ailments, BCST should be applied as a prevention treatment. In order to avoid stress, to regulate emotions and rebalance the body system as a whole, is necessary. This helps to thoroughly activate and regulate the ANS. Until and unless this is done, the body will stay in conflicts, which in hand creates distress and several emotional trauma diseases. Craniosacral sessions help enhance the natural flow and support the inner balance of our system. A session typically lasts for 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 40 minutes. The client lies down,
fully clothed as the practitioner gently works hands-on, with a listening touch and receptive perception. A series of sessions is recommended for a problem to be completely resolved. Due to its gentle nature it is received well by infants, children and the elderly, This work is also beneficial in the absence of a problem as it brings us into a deep relaxation balance with the feeling of being nourished from within. The therapist facilitates the Biodynamic, ordering and healing forces inherent within the body to enable health and homeostasis in the entire body. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy helps heal and support: ^/ 1" /( 3# +/"%%Ă&#x20AC; %Z/ :/# +/&# :/1( &3 -%Z/, " / problems ^/ = #+# $ %/# +/E"Ă (#" ^/ < #3/ (#Ă&#x20AC;-#/3": /OEB/"%%Ă&#x20AC; %/f,#9%gZ/ ( %%a&" % ^/ + (" #3/# +/$ (- #3/+6% Ă&#x20AC; " %
Dr Jameela Al Qaseer during one of her sessions
^/ ( %%Z/ 5" 6Z/< 1( %%" Z/ % - "# ^/ % (6/+"% (+ (%/%Ă&#x20AC; $/#%/"%%Ă&#x20AC; %/ / 6 %Z/ #(% / #%#3/ cavity ^/ ! %1"(# (6/# +/ $ (# " /"%%Ă&#x20AC; %Z/#% $-#Z/&( $" "%Z/ sinusitis ^/ -&#3# %/" / $ / (7 Ă&#x20AC;%/%6% -Z/<"Ă % "7 /+"% (+ (%/ immunity problems ^/ 33¸%/ #3%6Z/O("Ă -" #3/ä Ă&#x20AC;(#3Ă "#Z/; ( &(#3/1#3%6 ^/ ;$"3+( /9" $/ Ă&#x20AC;( 3 Ă " #3/1( &3 -%/%Ă&#x20AC; $/#%/+ 3#6 +/ milestones, learning disabilities, autism ^/ ; 1 " /~/1( Ă # 6/%Ă&#x20AC;11 ( /E $ (%/+Ă&#x20AC;(" Ă /# +/ after labor ^/ #&" %Y/ 936/& ( /~/&"( $/( 3# +/ (#Ă&#x20AC;-#/ (breastfeeding, colic, reflux) ^/ O(#Ă&#x20AC;-#/%Ă&#x20AC;11 ( /# "+ %Z/%Ă&#x20AC;(Ă (6Z/" ,Ă&#x20AC;(6Z/%$ : / Attacks, illnesses ^/ Ă&#x20AC;11 ( %/+ Ă (# "7 /+"% #% %/# +/ (-" #3/"33 %% % ^/ 1 "#3/ +%/3": / Ă&#x20AC; "%-Z/; ( &(#3/1#3%6Z/3 #( " Ă / disabilities.
For more information, call Jamilla on Tel: +973 3222 4441 or email: jamilla@healthhouse.me June 2015 71
health
The Nurturing Touch Introducing Infant Massage at Back on the Move O$ ( /#( /-# 6/& Ĺ %/ /" # /-#%%#Ă /# +/%:" a a%:" / # / (/& $Z/ $ /" # /# +/1#( / (/ starters, this technique helps calm the infants and enhances their growth. brings to you Tanita Still from Back On The Move. She has trained in Australia # / $ /E 3& Ă&#x20AC;( /! 6#3/= %1" #3/9" $/ $ /Âť # /E#%%#Ă / (-# " / (7" š/( Ă "% +/9 (3+9"+ Benefits for Parents/Caretakers:
^/ 1 "#3/& +" Ă / "- ^/ = 31%/1#( %/( Ă "% /6 %/# +/ / Ă&#x20AC; % /O$ 6/#( / able to respond quicker and attend to their child's needs better. ^/ = 31%/ $ /1#( /& /- ( /#9#( / / $ / $"3+_%/ growth- early diagnosis of potential health issues. ^/ "(% / "- /1#( %/& - /- ( / "+ /# +/ comfortable in handling their children. It has also had proven results for pre-term infants. Touch Therapy is recommended prior to massages with pre-term infants. With step-by-step introduction to massage, one can notice considerable weightgain from the low-birth weight, containment of any problems like asthma, pains, autism, cerebral palsy, congestion, eczema, digestive problems and more.
Infant massage is an age-old tradition that has been passed down to mother from generation to generation. Some people believe that being touched and caressed, being massaged, is like food for the infant- necessary.
Importance of Touch
New babies crave touch; their survival depends on personal contact. It seeks contact with the motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breast for assurance- the power of touch is imprinted into our brain and every cell in the body. In a healthy environment, touch means safety, assurance, nutrition and familiarity. These are our first communications with the world. Our first attachments are primarily based around touch.â&#x20AC;&#x153; We can live without sight, without hearing and without limbs but we cannot survive without touch. This is why: ^/ :" /"%/ $ /3#(Ă % /% % (6/ (Ă # ^/ #&" %/ 51 (" / $ /9 (3+/ $ Ă&#x20AC;Ă $/ Ă&#x20AC; $Z/%- 33/ and taste. 72
June 2015
^/ O Ă&#x20AC; $/9" $" /& Ă&#x20AC; +#(" %/$#%/#/$Ă&#x20AC;Ă /"-1# / / children developing healthy body awareness and prevents various body issues. If you are wondering what the benefits of infant massages were, this is it.
Benefits for the child: ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/ ^/
-1( 7 %/%3 1/# +/( Ă Ă&#x20AC;3# /%3 1/1# ( % $# %/ (+" # " /# +/& +6/#9#( %% ! 3" 7 %/%" Ă&#x20AC;%/# +/ $ % / Ă % " ! +Ă&#x20AC; %/ (6" Ă / "- ( #% /9 "Ă $ /" /3 9a&"( $/9 "Ă $ /" # % ! +Ă&#x20AC; /-Ă&#x20AC;% Ă&#x20AC;3#(/1#" + #3/ (/1( a (-/ # % $# %/ - " %/# +/"-1( 7 %/- + -1( 7 %/9" +Z/( 3Ă&#x20AC;5Z/# +/ % "1# " % /"--Ă&#x20AC; /%6% - ! +Ă&#x20AC; /% ( %%/$ (- %/3 7 3%/" / $"3+( /# +/ $ "(/ parents. ^/ #(36/+"#Ă %"%/ /1 "#3/$ #3 $/"%%Ă&#x20AC; %
Tanita will soon be introducing classes for the soonto-be parents and otherwise. Classes will be arranged by age and development levels, i.e starting from birth up to the age of 10. Parents can bring the child to the classes and perform the massages with the helps of the trainer.
The Classes Include:
^/ #( /-# Ă&#x20AC;#3/ÂŞ% 1a&6a% 1/-#%%#Ă /% 2Ă&#x20AC; ^/ (Ă # " / 3+/1( %% +/-#%%#Ă / "3/i/3 #( " Ă /#& Ă&#x20AC; / appropriate oils for children. ^/ (-"%%" /% 2Ă&#x20AC; ^/ A #( " Ă / /( Ă "% /6 %/# +/ / Ă&#x20AC; % ^/ E % /#11( 1("# / "- / /-#%%#Ă /6 Ă&#x20AC;(/ $"3+ ^/ # /1 %" " %/ (/-#%%#Ă " Ă ^/ ( : %/ (/+" ( /1#( %/ / $ /& +6 ^/ = 9/ /+ #3/9" $/ 3" Z/( 3Ă&#x20AC;5Z/9"3+Z/ % "1# "
For more information, visit Back on the Move Clinic First Floor, Building 1072, Sunlight Plaza, Road 3622, Block 436, Seef District Or call, Tel: +973 7730 0600
opinion
Rekindling The Soul As the world plunges deeper and deeper into one crisis after another, an ever-growing number of people are witnessing the rebirth of all that is true and noble in the human heart. On one side, the clamour for change, liberation, independence and equality; and on the other, the perception that the change required is not simply a matter of Rita Moussallem economics or politics but one that touches the core of our natures, attitudes and visions. On seeing the almost complete rupture of human values, the mad rush towards an “apocalypse”, many have retired into their own cells of desperation with the feeling of abandonment. “Even God has left us!” they cry; yet the throes of death have always signaled new beginning. This is like a story of the rekindling of the soul and how through the opening of the eye of wisdom one can see a brilliant future rising like a phoenix from the ashes of waste and corruption of this old world. They are a simple step-by-step guide for those who recognise that now is the time for the rising up of the individual from the mire of its own weaknesses, the time for actively making the only valid contribution to a new and elevated world order – the transformation of the self. The Soul
The world is full of many wonders; incredible works of art and architecture, of science and invention, but the greatest of them all by far is the human mind. It is the mind’s play that brings about all activity in the human world. The outline of everything people construct is first formed in the mind and then filled in with matter to assume a concrete shape. History, science, culture, trade and commerce, in fact all knowledge and systems of our day-to-day world, are but the projection and fulfillment of thoughts born in the mind. If the mind, by concentration itself on matter, can work such wonders and attain such miraculous physical powers as we have, what can it not attain if it concentrates on itself!
Disorder and tension on the individual level and consequently on the social level are the result of ignorance of the self and the world around, such that the mind stays without rest. It runs jumps and churns aimlessly, lashed by waves of feelings and emotions. The individual becomes entangled in nets, which are the consequences of this ignorance of the fundamentals of life. And now, we will begin an upward journey that will take you through deeper and deeper levels of understanding and experience, which create freedom from these nets.
The Distinction Between The Soul And Matter
In life many happenings cannot be explained solely in material terms. At certain points of crisis or inspiration, there are deep emotional and spiritual experiences, which separate us from the world around. We retreat at such times, into ourselves, into religious or philosophical books, into rituals or symbols, in order to understand them. We are subject to a perpetual commentary on life around us from our own thoughts, feelings and deductions. These faculties of thinking and forming ideas, desiring and deciding (and all the different aspects which constitute our individual personality) are non-physical, yet nevertheless real. Indeed, anything
perceptible to us comes from two sources; that which is detected by the physical senses and that which arises from impressions recorded on these subtle faculties. The things that we can see, taste, hear, smell and feel, as well as the body itself are formed of matter. But the subtle faculties of mind, intellect and personality are manifest in what is called consciousness. “Consciousness” is another word for “Soul” or “Spirit”. The soul is a subtle entity that cannot be measured by any physical process or instrumentation. The non-material part of each one of us exists, and is in fact the true self or what we simply call “I”. This “I”, or soul is perceptible only at the level of mind and intellect. The soul must first be aware of its own capacities of sensing, discriminating and understanding, in order to attune these powers to the proper degree of subtlety and precision. With the physical eyes we can see only gross, material things. It requires a different kind of vision or outlook to “see” that which concern the non-material, all those experiences which transcend the physical level of existence. Raja Yoga Meditation involves the development and refinement of the socalled “Third Eye” so that we not only “see” spiritually but also understand and adjust to what we “see” in the most natural way possible.
Rita Moussallem is a meditation teacher and has been studying positive thinking and discovering her inner values through meditation. Image Credit: www.benamimusic.files.wordpress.com
June 2015 73
health
Tricks to Survive Hot Summer Nights Bahrain’s spring arrived and disappeared in one day. Only to be replaced by the scorching heat and humidity making it impossible to walk around, sit in a car, let alone sleep comfortably without the Air Conditioner (AC).
7. Cool off
Trying to take a cold shower during the summer months in Bahrain – is almost possible. But even rinsing yourself under tepid water helps to reduce the body temperature and you hit the sack feeling cool and clean.
8. Get low
Hot air rises, so drag a mattress onto the floor for the night. If you live in a double storey plus house, move downstairs and sleep on the floor.
9. Hang out
Cool down a whole room by hanging a wet sheet in front of your switched on fan. The breeze blowing will quickly bring down the room’s temperature.
There is nothing worse than walking into your bedroom at bedtime. Only to discover your AC has broken down – yet again! So what’s the ideal climate to catch up on the eight hours beauty sleep we’re told we need? The ideal temperature is roughly between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which is impossible to achieve in most households in Bahrain without AC. So what to do yanni – if your AC breaks down? Below are some obvious but simple and practical tips to help you survive a night without cool air!
1. Choose cotton
keep you cool all night, but it will provide a brief respite from heat and humidity.
3. Get a hot water bottle
During summer, fill it with water and place it in the freezer to create a bed-friendly ice pack when required.
4. Go old-school
This stay-cool trick is straight out of the icebox era. Make a DIY air conditioner by positioning a shallow pan or bowl (a roasting pan works nicely) full of ice in front of a fan. The breeze will pick up cold water from the ice’s surface as it melts, creating a cooling mist.
Save the playboy satin, silk, or polyester sheets for winter or when the AC is working. Light-coloured bed linens made of lightweight cotton (Egyptian or otherwise) are breathable and excellent for promoting ventilation and airflow in the bedroom.
5. Pamper your pulses
2. Feel the freezer burn
6. Fill up the tank.
It may sound a bit insane. But how badly do you want to sleep? So stick sheets in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes before bed. We recommend placing them in a plastic bag first. Otherwise you may find a load of peas and carrots attached to them when you pull them out. Granted, this won’t 74
June 2015
Need to cool down? To chill out super-fast, apply ice packs or cold compresses to pulse points at the wrists, neck, elbows, groin, ankles, and behind the knees.
Get a leg up on hydration by drinking a glass of water before bed. Tossing and turning and sweating at night can result in dehydration, so get some H20 in the tank beforehand. (Pro tip: Just eight ounces will do the trick, unless you’re really into those 3 a.m. bathroom runs.)
10. Encourage cold feet
Your tootsies are pretty sensitive to temperature because of all the pressure points in them. Cool down the whole body by soaking your feet in cold water before hitting the sack. Better still, keep a bucket filled with ice water beside your bed and dip feet into it whenever you’re feeling hot throughout the night.
11. Unplug at night
As in, literally disconnect electronics. Gadgets and other small appliances give off heat, even when turned off. Reduce total heat in the house (and save energy!) by keeping plugs out of sockets when the appliances are not in use.
12. Get creative with grains
Rice isn’t just for eating! It can also keep you cool on hot nights. Prepare a couple of small rice pillows and leave them in the freezer. It will stay chilly for up to 30 minutes, definitely enough time to nod off. Sweet Dreams ….
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opinion
INVESTMENT 101 T
here has been no better time to invest in Europe! Euro against the Dollar is the weakest it’s ever been for more than 13 years. That means you are going to get so much more for your Dollar, so now is the time to exchange your currency and park you money in Europe. There is no better way to help your money grow than investing in property, which remains to be a safe and stable bet. This example highlights how much money can be made on currency exchange alone. Have a look at what $100K dollar could have bought you over the last 10 years: 2006 = €77K, 2008 = €64K, 2010 = €68K, 2012 = €75K, 2014 = €72K, 2015 = €92K!! That’s a lot more property you are going to be able to buy this year compared the last 10 years. That could be equivalent to at least one extra bedroom!
Euro against the Dollar is the weakest it’s ever been for more than 13 years. Now let’s look at what could happen when you sell a property when the Euro strengthens. So, you bought a property for $100K or €92K and you decide to sell this for the exact same price, look at how much money you can make on currency exchange alone: Taking an average of the above, a strong Euro would be around 1.36, this is going to give you $125K dollars back. Yes, you have made $25K profit on the currency exchange alone. What if the Euro strengthens to a previous high of 1.59, then you will get $146K!! Add these gains to the fact that your property will have likely increased in value then you are making a considerable amount of money with barely any effort. Europe is a large place and each country has their own unique features and there are many pros and cons with investing in each. The first question you need to ask yourself: is this ‘pure investment’ or is it a ‘lifestyle’ choice, a place that you need to love and will visit regularly. With pure investment, the decision becomes easier as it’s all about the math. Which country and region is going to generate the greatest growth and which type of properties will give the best return? With holiday homes, decisions are made with the head and the heart! It is still however wise to let the head rule as you still need to look into the overall economic and political situation of that country and of course the laws, especially on things like inheritance tax. If you want to learn more about what each country has to offer in Europe then please register for our ‘Free Brochure’ by registering at www.starglobalinvestments.com. Here to help you grow your money with the least amount of effort!
Angela McDonough, now a resident of Bahrain has more than 20 years’ experience of property investing in foreign markets. She is the Owner & Managing Director of ‘A&E Global Properties Ltd’ and ‘Star Global Investments’ 76 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Angela McDonough
Last month, we introduced investment specialist, Angela McDonough. In this article, the first of her many EXCLUSIVE columns for Bahrain Confidential, she discusses why Europe is the hottest investment destination right now.
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travel
BEAUTIFUL BALI
By Ujala Ali Khan
Ever since Julia Roberts traipsed around Bali in the movie adaptation of the best-selling book 'Eat, Pray, Love', the already popular destination has become even more over-run by tourists. If you can look past the hordes of over-tanned visitors, avoid peak tourist season, and venture a little off the beaten path, you can still find the Bali that charmed the world in the first place.
Ujala and
What to see?
Ancient temples, gorgeous greenery, and beautiful beaches...Bali has it all. The eastern coastal region offers an ideal escape for those in search of a 'hidden' paradise. Soak in the spiritual essence of some of the most breathtaking temples, including the 'Mother Temple of Bali', the Besakih temple. Located on the slope of Mount Agung, Bali's highest volcano, the temple
78 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
her husban
houses ancestral shrines for all the Hindu Balinese and is a complex of nearly 24 temples. Gunung Kawi temple is Bali's largest ancient monument. Nestled in a lush green valley, this temple consists of 10 rock-cut shrines, which feature statue-like memorials housed in their own niches, both carved out of the rock face. Bali’s famous cliff-top Uluwatu temple - built by a high Hindu priest in the 11th century - is one of the most spectacular Hindu temples along
d share
oment am a Kodak m
idst Bali's
luscious gr
eenery
Bali’s coastline. It is located atop a limestone cliff towering 90 meters above the Indian Ocean, and is the setting of a breathtaking Kecak dance performance every evening. Based on The Ramayana, this traditional cliff-top fire dance performance takes place at sundown, and though it obviously caters for tourists, it is the perfect way to enjoy the famed Bali sunset from the gorgeous setting in a small amphitheater in a leafy part of the temple’s grounds.
travel Luscious Landscapes
Bali has plenty of beautiful views to offer. A leisurely drive through the hills of Bukit - Bali’s southern peninsula – is highly recommended. Bukit is unique in its topography from the rest of Bali because – unlike most of tropical Bali, which owes its fertile soils to the volcanoes dotting the central highlands – Bukit’s terrain is a result of coral sedimentation over millennia. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud are famous for the beautiful view of rice paddies sloping across the valleys as far as the eye can see. The high altitude ensures a pleasant breeze almost all year round, making this a favorite pit stop for the mandatory Bali souvenir photo. The mountain village Kintamani in the highland region of central Bali is a great spot to enjoy a cool breeze and breathtaking views of Mount Batur – a stillactive volcano sporting a crater-lake seven miles in diameter and sixty feet deep. The best views of both, the volcano and its lake can be had at the traditional village of Penglipuran. Though it has obviously been spruced up with tourist footfall in mind, it is a pleasant place to stop over for a scenic lunch at one of the many restaurants overlooking Mount Batur Volcano. Coffee lovers will not want to miss out on a visit to the coffee plantations at Bali Pulina Agro Tourism – the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a classy cuppa with coffee plantation as your view. Tours of the plantation include various types of coffee and tea for tasting, as well as a peek at how the world’s most expensive coffee -Kopi Luwak - is made.
Life’s a Beach
While there are some great beaches all across Bali, if you can squeeze out some time and money, splurge a little and head to a private beach at Nusa Dua at one of the higher end hotels. These private beaches are pristine and offer a lot more privacy than the public beaches around the rest of Bali, and are perfect for a bit of sunbathing in luxury. At night check out the party scene at Kuta Beach, the most popular beach in Bali. You will find a wide range of places offering different atmospheres and catering to different budgets. Whether it’s a fancy western franchise, or a local joint, you can be sure to have a good time and make some great memories at Kuta. To enjoy the more chilled out side of Bali’s beaches, head to Jimbaran Beach and enjoy some super fresh seafood dinner on the beach. Rows of restaurants dot the waterfront and you can eat plate after plate of freshly cooked seafood as you watch the sun set on the horizon. Once you move beyond the tourist traps, you will find a lot of old-world and rustic charm, and realise that the authentic Bali – the one that lies just beneath the surface of all the touristic kitsch – is a place of spellbinding beauty, both natural and manmade, and you will be left wanting for more!
What to eat?
Known for its exciting mix of fragrant spices and exotic ingredients, Indonesian cuisine has its global
stars such as Rendang curry, Nasi Goreng and the many types of satay. Dig deeper and you will find many new combinations to tantalise your palate. While the night markets and warungs (food stands) are a great way to sample local delicacies, there is no shortage of high-end restaurants either. The five-star hotels that cater to the luxury tourism industry feature local dishes on the menus of at least one of their restaurants, if not a whole restaurant dedicated to Indonesian or Pan-Asian cuisine. Bamboo Chic, a pan-Asian restaurant and bar at Le Méridien Bali offers a delicious take on Balinese cuisine. It mixes classic Jimbaran cuisine with global contemporary influences. Popular dishes include Bedugul Gerang Asem (a sour fish curry), Larb Gai (minced chicken in iceberg rolls) and Bubur Sum-sum (sweet rice porridge). Feast at Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers an open kitchen and live-action food stations which give you a first-class view of the vibrant culinary delights being freshly prepared for you. The restaurant’s contemporary take on classic Indonesian cuisine results in some gems on the menu such as the Balinese Trio of sate (with three types of minced meat), Buffalo wings Asian style, (with sriracha suace, steamed bokchoy and white miso blue cheese dipping sauce) and for the more adventurous: Mei or Nasi Goreng for breakfast (wok fried rice or noodles with seafood and vegetables, served with egg, fried chicken and prawn crackers).
The Jimbaran beach in Bali which is popular for its sunsets Bahrain Confidential June 2015 79
travel Stepping outside the five-star enclave, you must try the Dirty duck Diner in Ubud. Go here for Bali's most famous dish, bebek tutu (smoked duck). Though you will have to order it 24-hours in advance, it will be worth it: the succulent duck is marinated overnight in Balinese spices and smoked slowly for several hours, and you eat it at a restaurant set amongst the most luscious greens. You can choose to sit at a table indoors, or outdoors, in the main dining area, but the best place to enjoy this true Balinese treat is in one of the traditional bamboo pondoks, (elevated wooden huts) with floor-seating that over looks the rice fields. Another must-try eatery is Made's Warung, the original tourist warung in Kuta, serving classic Indonesian dishes, such as Nasi Campur, Nasi Goreng and Beef Rendang.
What to buy?
A holiday of any sort calls for some sort shopping for souvenirs or keepsakes from the trip, and in Bali’s case, this is best done at the Ubud Art Market. Prices vary, and bargaining is expected … just do it politely and with a smile. The market is open daily from 8am till 6pm, with some of the stalls open till even later.
Ujala Ali Khan is a Dubai-based wanderlusting foodie who likes to explore new places through her palate. She blogs about her travel and food adventures at www.flashpackchick.com. Follow her on @flashpackchick for travel and food inspiration!
The traditional Balinese Rengdang dish
Temple Dos and Don’ts • To the Balinese, visiting a temple is a special pilgrimage. Dress and act respectfully. • Sarongs and sashes are available for rent or can be purchased outside all temples. You will have to make use of these if temple guards insist. • Temples may be crowded during the daytime. The best times to visit are early morning and in the evening when tourist crowds dissipate. • Women on their periods are forbidden entry to temples. The traditional Balinese fire dance & Inset: A Balinese dancer performing the traditional Legong dance. Facial and hand expressions are an important element of Balinese dancing 80 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
• Watch out for the ‘canang sari’ offerings that dot the temples. Stepping on these holy offerings to the Gods is frowned upon.
local Most of us, expats, have lived in the Kingdom for a while. But when was the last time we visited the island’s touristic gems? Melissa Nazareth gets a few recommendations from locals on what they call the
Best of Bahrain
The Grand Mosque
Sprawling across 6,500 square meters, the Al Fatih Mosque, popularly known as Grand Mosque stands tall on the Al Fatih highway. One of the largest mosques in the world, it has the capacity to accommodate 7,000 worshippers at a time. Non Muslim’s are allowed to visit this pristine structure from 9am to 4pm, except on Fridays and public holidays. In 2006, it became the site of the National Library of Bahrain and has 7,000 texts which are over a century old. As a mark of respect, try and ensure you’re modestly dressed when you’re here.
Al Fatih Mosque aka Grand Mosque 82 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
local Bahrain National Museum
A potter at work in A'ali village
For a quick history fix, head to the Bahrain National Museum which is right next door to the Grand mosque. Most local schools end up making a trip to this place at least once – even I visited the museum for the first time when I was in school! There are many halls exhibiting historical artifacts right from the burial mounds dating back to no less than 1900BC to antiques from the Dilmun era. If you’re interested in art, there is a gallery inside the museum with international pieces of modern artwork on display. Visiting hours are from 8am to 8pm for an entry fee of BD1 and kids under 12 years are allowed in free.
Bab Al Bahrain
Marking the entry to the popular Manama souq, Bab Al Bahrain or Gateway of Bahrain is a well known historical building. Though the structure was renovated three years back its traditional look remains untouched. A number of shops selling ethnic Bahraini souvenirs line the entrance. You could spend a lazy afternoon shopping but forget to bargain! There are quite a few traditional coffee shops at the souq which can give you your caffeine fix with a cup of gahwa (read Arabic coffee). While you’re at it, visit the many gold shops at the souq. Bahraini gold is very pure and hallmarked as 18 carat and 21 carat. Also, Bahraini pearls are the only natural pearls in the world today, each one being unique.
A’ali Pottery
Feel the creative pulse of Bahrain at A’ali Village, the island’s main centre for pottery. Throughout the country’s history, pottery has been a notable craft and impressive pieces dating back to 2300 BC have been discovered on the island. Artists use mud from nearby flats in Riffa and design beautiful, traditional lamps, utensils, money banks and more. You could even take a go at the potter’s wheel for a hands-on!
Authentic Bahraini Breakfast
Looking for a change to spruce-up the most important meal of the day? Why not dig into sumptuous Bahraini breakfast complete with local breads like jinjabari (read fried bread with cheese and onions), foul (read a bean-based local dish), balaleet (read vermicelli topped with an omelet), Arabic dips and more! Saffron at the Muharraq souq has received rave reviews for its food and ambience. Few others also offer the real deal: Emmawash on Budaiya Highway and Arab Street in Adliya. You could also try this family-run restaurant at the Manama souq snuggly located between the mosque and popular Gulf Pearl Hotel. They’ve been around for a whopping 40 years! City Centre Bahrain Bab Al Bahrain
Halwa Showaiter
Taste the tradition of Bahrain with Halwa Showaiter or Halwa Bahraini, a confection produced by the Showaiter family for the past 150 years. A number of shops at the entrance to the Muharraq souq sell it. There are varieties too – the regular, with figs and others. Though Arabs usually have it with gahwa, I believe it tastes as great with green tea!
Gastro & Fine Dining
Are you a foodie? Then you’re in for a treat! A whole lot of new restaurants have sprouted-up across the island in the past one year. The Lagoon in Amwaj is a hub of fine and casual dining outlets. American Alley in Juffair has interesting places too. Block 338, and this is a personal favourite, is a small area tucked-in a corner of Adliya. It’s a cozy space for the perfect brunch or evening meal with your family. And there is something for everyone, right from burgers and French breakfast to succulent steaks and rich Indian gravies.
Shopping & Entertainment
If you want to indulge in a little retail therapy, Bahrain’s got some great malls. Your best bet is the Seef district, where you have Seef Mall (their new branch opened this year at Muharraq, on the way to the airport), City Centre Bahrain and Al A’ali Mall. You can find all you’re favourite, international brands under one roof; probably grab a grub at the food court or even catch the latest movie at the cinemas – the perfect family day out! (Al A’ali Mall doesn’t have a theatre).
A lover of food, travel, culture… and all things lifestyle, Melissa Nazareth is also a published author, storyteller and aspirant columnist. She blogs about interesting stuff in Bahrain on bahrain-confidential.com Want to share your feedback? Drop her a line on editorial1@arabianmagazines.com @melnazareth @melissanazareth Bahrain Confidential June 2015 83
VIVA technology
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84 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
VIVA technology
What’s New with VIVA? Triple Data with VIVA Home Broadband Plans
Prepaid 4G Unlimited Data Add-ons
Offering customers the ultimate broadband experience, VIVA is offering triple data allowance on its 4G Home Broadband Plans. Additionally, VIVA subscribers will enjoy free access to their favorite social media channels including Facebook, Twitter and Whatsapp. With this new offer, VIVA Postpaid Broadband customers will also enjoy free access to superfast 4G LTE, social media channels, web surfing and downloading of their favorite movies and music. Moreover, customers will get free 4G LTE broadband devices, free extra sharing SIMs, and unlimited calls to all VIVA numbers and discounted international rates from VIVA home lines. VIVA’s 4G LTE broadband sharing plans start from BD7 monthly subscription offered with 15GB data allowance. For VIVA customers with extensive broadband requirements, there is the flexibility to choose from broadband packages 10, 15, 25 and 35, offered with a monthly fee and shared data of 30GB, 45GB, 90GB and 180GB respectively. VIVA’s home broadband packages are available on 24-month and 12-month contracts, giving customers the option to pay upfront for LTE devices and enjoy triple monthly data allowance.
Customers can subscribe to the Prepaid 4G Unlimited Data Add-ons for BD3, BD4, BD5, BD8 and BD15 and get free data for 1GB, 2GB, 4G, 7GB and 15 GB, respectively. To activate the 4G add-ons send the following: Prepaid Packages
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Bahrain Confidential June 2015 85
society If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spot a picture of yourself or your friends on our Society Pages, you can always check our online newsletter which is updated regularly. Visit www.Bahrain-Confidential.com
S CIETY
The All New Cherry Tiggo 5
The launch of the Cherry Tiggo 5 took place at the Motor city Showroom on 6th May.
Representatives at the launch
May, Asela and Wael
Lourdes, Jenny and Smily
Bijan, Asela, May, Wael, Mariam and Trevor
The Graduation Ceremony of Tamkeen Tatweer Trainees
The graduation ceremony of Tamkeen Tatweer trainees took place at the Tatweer Petroleum new headquarters on 26th April.
Tamkeen Officials with Graduates and Tatweer CEO Andrew Kershaw 86 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com BBBF Annual General Meeting
BBBFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual General Meeting took place at Crowne Plaza on 7th May.
HE Iain Lidsay, Rodney, Travis and Ashley
Mariam, Rick, Daniel and Heather
Jackie, Stephan, Betsey, Robert and Abdulla
Jameel, Mathew and Nasser
Tony, Anastasia
Richard and Michael
Debbie and Abdul Hameed
Georges, Nicole, Dr Andrea and Dr Amy
Bob, Andrew, Chris and Ismail
Nepal- Jeans For A Cause
Crowne Plaza held a day where staff wore jeans and funds were collected for Nepal.
Crowne Plaza Bahrain - Nepal Jeans for a cause Bahrain Confidential June 2015 87
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com German Business Network Reception
The German Business Network Reception took place at InterContinental Regency Bahrain on 26th April.
Tariq, Othman, Raed, Isa and Jehad
Mandy, Silvia, Charmine and Supatra
Hubertus, Nadeem HE Chilman Arisman and Konstantinos Pallikaropoulos
Tariq, Raed, Jehad and HE Sabine Tauffman
Christian Z. and Siegfried
Larrisa, Manuel and Alexandra
Liliane and Lisa
Benadeta, Sadeq, Abdul Wahab, Cynthia, Amin and Abdulla
Labour Day Celebrations
Palace Boutique Hotel celebrated Labour Day as a gesture toward its diverse staff.
The Palace Boutique Hotel staff 88 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Student’s Promotion Campaign
Students held a promotion campaign where they spread the joy and fun aspects of reading. This took place at University of Bahrain on 7th May.
Dr Lamya and Hussain
Noor and Fatima
Nada and Zainab
Rizwan, Aakash and Anis
Arfan, Ahmed and Areej
Maysa, Zainab, Fatima and Saima
High Performance Selling By Brian Tracy
A seminar on High Performance Selling by guest speaker, Brian Tracy took place at Diplomat Radisson Blu on 27th April.
Smily, Brian Tracy, Rebecca and Zena
Learning how to sell!
Kelly Armatage: Tribal Dynamic Series “Little Warrior” Kelly Armatage’s Tribal Dynamic Series took place at Seef Mall on 25th April.
Kelly Armatage in action!
90 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Latifa and Zahra
Sadiqa and Aaliya
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Iftar Sneak Peak
Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain held a Ramadan Iftar sneak peak on 6th May.
Mohammed, Iyad and Muhannad
Sameera and Nasser
Nabeela and Mohammed
Reem, Eza and Isa
Mariam, Zena and Rebecca Fatima and Sadiqa
Cliphton and Philippe
Ian, Rick and Dennis
Rene and Joy
Abdul Salam, Showqi and Wael
Suha, Amina, Charlene and Theresa
Illusionist Javier Saba At Mรถvenpick
The illusionist Javier Saba was at Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain on 7th May.
Junes, Suraya and Moussa
Lynn, Lisa, Redha, Ahmed, Kelly and Mohammed
Faye and Jade
Daniel, Ali, Manish and Nizar Roslyn and Liz
Aoife and Michelle 92 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Adam and Kristina
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Ahmed and Ali
Animania 2015
Animania 2015 took place at Bahrain International Circuit on 8th May.
Amjad, Salman, Adam, Amna and Abdulla
Dana and Nasser
Shimna and Rayana
Udaid, Abiha and Fiza
Tareq and Jassim
Fatima and Zana
Hamad and Aref
Faisal and Mohammed
MODA Mall Media Briefing
MODA held an media appreciation lunch at Sheraton Hotel on 12th May. Cutting the gorgeous cake
Biswas, Peter, Ali and Firas
Shareef, Jenny, Melissa, Smily and Zena
ORIS Aviators Basel Mission Press Conference
ORIS Aviators Basel Mission press conference took place at Sheraton Hotel on 2nd May. Ruppeiner Paul and Karim Gerber with BJC Officials 94 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Apparel Group Corporate Event
Apparel Group hosted a corporate event where many female centric brands of Apparel Group participated on 12th May at Armani Hotel Dubai. The event was held to celebrate womanhood.
Sports Awards Ceremony
The Sports awards ceremony took place at the Elite Resort .& Spa on 18th May
Jameela, Sarosh and Fadhi
Esoa, Hussain, Leda, Vinod and Rinesh
Lalima and Anurag
Teressa and Amit
Lal and Aqeel
Ismail and Sukjit
Mario and Abdulrahman Bahrain Confidential June 2015 95
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Attracting Future Leaders To The Hospitality Sector
InterContinental Regency and Crowne Plaza held a recruitment programme to attract future leaders to the hospitality sector. The programme took place on 10th May.
Philipp, Darren and Patrick
Namratha, Zahra, Wafa and Annmarie
Aqeela and Amal
Cameron and Ali
Abdulla, Mohammed, Yousif, Regie, Christa and Rebecca
Jan Ifcic
Fatima, Nasreen and Thahira
Fatima and Noora
Mohammed, Tareq and Laila,Jassim Hussain, Geeta and Masuma
VIVA Rewards Programme
VIVA held a press briefing for VIVA Rewards Programme At Four Seasons Hotel on 9th May.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Shareef Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ulaiyan Al Wetaid
Media at the press conference
BSPCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Afternoon Tea Party
Ladies enjoyed BSPCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first afternoon tea party fund raiser at the Diplomat Radisson Blu. Claire, Michelle and Maddie 96 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Nga and Lisa
Caroline and Veronica
Rose and friend
Bahrain’s St. Christopher’s Students Accolade
Lilo and Deena Al-Dahwi won 1st and 2nd places respectively at the Torrance Legacy Creativity Awards for their work in creative writing.
A ‘prized’ moment for the girls with the Ambassador of the USA to Bahrain
The All-new GLA 250
Al Haddad Motors launched the all-new GLA 250 at their showroom on 16th May.
Mohammed, Imran, Bryan and Abdulla
Mohammed, Imran, Bryan, Graeme Newport and Abdulla
Husain, Salman, Taha and Joel
Abdulla, Rasoul and Graeme Newport
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com K Hotel Corporate Cocktail Party K Hotel held a corporate cocktail party on 20th May.
Volker, Hussain, Abdul Aziz and Yousif
Claudia and Natalia
Jojo and Judy
Hamad and Joel Zena and Jihan Fatima and Momen
Nimfa and Ila
Jibelle and JV
Dina and Deema Shoron, Benchie, Gio, Fay and Edward
Birthday Celebrations!
Shantaram Shetty celebrated his birthday in style at Warbler on 14th May.
The birthday man with his family
Anil, Jude, Shakti and Shibu 98 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Haris, Sooraj, Ajay, Ashok, Purbas and Vasanth
Vidyadaran and Vasu with Family
Dhepta, Asha, Shantharam and Ashish
Saritha, Palumithra, Ashrumith, Adithya, Sakarika and Anjali
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Azadea Charity Event
Azadea donated to the Bahrain Red Crescent Society on 18th May.
Flavours Of Arabia Showcase Dinner
â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Flavours of Arabiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; showcase dinner took place at Bayti Contemporary Middle Eastern Cuisine on 18th May.
Abdulrahman Fakhro, Maher Salman Al Musallam, Aqeel Raees, Khaled Kanoo, Dr Faisal Al Hamer and Jalil Ansari
Donating for a good cause!
Opening of Hunkemoller
The opening of Hunkemoller took place at The Centre, Nuwaidrat on 6th April.
Abdullatif Al Aujan, Khamis Al Miqla, Abdul Hakim, Adel Kanoo, Aqeel Raes and Garfield Jones
At the ribbon cutting ceremony Sam, Boby, Khaled, Khaled and Khalifa
Sophia and Judith
Kristine, Sophia, Ameera and Mohabat Ebrahim, Adbulrahman Fakhro, Dr Faisal Al Hamer, Jalil Ansai, Abdullatif Al Aujan and Bashar Al Hassan
Zena, Hady and Smily
Aqeel Raees, Abdullatif Al Aujan, Farouk Al Moayyed, Adnan Fakhro, Mohammed Salahuddeen, Sameer Al Wazzan and Hameed Ali Bahrain Confidential June 2015 99
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com ‘Strategy Execution’ Business Workshop
A ‘Strategy Execution’ business workshop took place at Capital Club on 20th May.
Faisal, Mazen, Mohammed, Hussain, Khaled and Abdulla
Jean, Ansari, Pauline and Michael
Mathias, Sudhir, Stephen and Yousif
Keven, Catriona, Khalil, William, Lalaine and Mohammed
Charl, Ravi, Angus and David
Michael, Abdulnabi Shoala and Jean
Nawar and Kevin
Adnana and Wael
Matias, Jean, Frank and Jurjen
Launch of Artiqaz Jewellery
The exclusive launch of Artiqaz Jewellery took place at The Domain on 20th May. Farah, Amna, and Nidal
Admiring the nature inspired pieces 100 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Zainab and Dalal
Emana, Dua, Wafa and Ali
Dalal, Amal and Nada
society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com IHG Business Rewards
IHG Business Rewards ceremony took place at InterContinental Regency Bahrain on 19th May.
Gilles Nicolas, Jan Ifcic and Ebrahim Kooheji
Hassan and Nazeeha
Maria, Najah and Yousif
Shubika, Santhosh, Kathey, Surbitha and Oana
Rola, Nada and Khaled
Dinah and Abeer
Sigi, Pciscilla, Sarina and Oana
Ian, Sharon and Nicole
Farah, Sara and Christa
Kanika, Danielle and Gopika
Press Launch Of ArtBahrain 2015
The press launch of ArtBahrain 2015 took place at Four Seasons Hotel on 19th MAy.
Greg Pirkle, Kanika, Clementine and Orest
At the press launch of ArtBahrain 2015 Bahrain Confidential June 2015 101
BUSINESS IN BRIEF
business
Junaid Perfumes Honours Employees
As an appreciation toward its long-term employees, Junaid Perfumes organised a special retirement party for some of its outstanding performers. The celebration took place at Junaid Perfumes’ premises during which Ali Jaweed Junaid, Director of Operations at Junaid Perfumes, honoured the senior employees, and presented them with special plaques and appreciation letters. This was followed by the cake cutting and gifts distribution ceremony. The retired employees thanked the company for this generous initiative. Established in 1910, Junaid Perfumes is one of the oldest perfumers in the GCC and has significantly grown in repute and stature over the years. Today, the company operates over 150 exclusive retail outlets in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Lebanon, Turkey, Syria and many other countries worldwide.
VIVA Customer Rewards Programme
Shantharam Shetty, Group General Manager (Front Right); Ali Al Jazzazi, Director of Sales & Marketing & Cynthia Narvaez, Assistant Marketing Manager
Excellence Award for Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa
Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa has been recognised as a top-performing hotel based on guests’ reviews on Booking.com, the world leader in online accommodation booking. Offering guests luxurious 5-star hospitality and world-class facilities, the hotel has achieved an overall review score of 8.7 for 2014. Located in the bustling Seef district, the hotel boasts easy access to entertainment and recreational options whether you’re travelling on business or are simply on a mini weekend spree. 102 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Further enhancing the value offering for its customers, VIVA Bahrain’s new loyalty program is based in tiers and allows subscribers to accumulate points based on their usage, which can then be redeemed for telecom benefits including free VIVA to VIVA calls, SMS, international minutes, as well as additional data. VIVA Rewards is open to all VIVA subscribers with free enrolment. Customers can enroll for the programme by typing ‘Rewards’ and sending an SMS to 98833 or dialing ‘*98833#’ from their mobile. Customers can keep a check on their redeemable points, by either dialing ‘*98833*1#’ from their mobile or via SMS by sending the word ‘Points’ to 98833. For more info, visit viva.com.bh
value meal
1.500
BD
i f t a r- 9 p m
not valid in Airport branch with other offers or delivery orders
business BFLC’S VIP Showcase Dinner
Bahrain Family Leisure Company’s (BFLC’s) General Manager, Peter Lyons hosted a group of VIPs and local businesspersons at Bayti Restaurant. The dinner showcased the venue’s take on modern Middle Eastern cuisine. The restaurant is close to celebrating one full year of successful operation. It features a range of exciting dishes including its famous Chocolate Shawarma, a hit with food lovers in Bahrain. Guests were treated to a varied menu and presented with various options for businesses and groups to dine at Bayti. For more info visit bayti.com.bh
(L - R) Ali Mohammed Akbar Khan, Asst. GM, AJM Kooheji Group; Farouk Hemraj, Co Founder of Distree & Sanjeev Awasthi, COO, AJM Kooheji Group at the award ceremony
Bayti restaurant
AJM Kooheji Group’s International Accolade
AJM Kooheji participated in the prestigious Middle East Retail Awards (MERA) for the IT and mobile industry. This year over 500 delegates from different countries participated in Abu Dhabi and AJM Kooheji Group was a final nominee for 3 categories: Product Launch of the Year, Marketing Initiative of the Year and Customer Promotion of the Year. AJM Kooheji won the award for launching Ctroniq products with unique campaigns and promotions and were presented with the “Customer Promotion of the Year” award. (L - R) Sasha Sinson, Sales Director, Distree; Ali Mohammed Akbar Khan, Asst. GM, AJM Kooheji Group; Liam McSherry, Marketing Director, Distree & Sanjeev Awasthi, COO, AJM Kooheji Group at the post event function
Zain Bahrain Inks Deal with Samsung
Zain Bahrain announced a partnership with Samsung Galaxy Apps Store paving the way for customers to purchase applications through Zain Pay, a direct mobile operator billing facility. Zain Pay enables customers to pay for their app purchases including the latest applications and digital games without the need of a credit card by directly charging it to their monthly post-paid bill or prepaid account. Customers can now enjoy the one-stop convenience of having all of their application purchases consolidated into their mobile bill or prepaid account. The proud team at InterContinental Regency Bahrain
For more info, visit bh.zain.com
InterContinental Regency Bahrain’s Accolade
InterContinental Regency Bahrain announced its triumph over a number of prestigious names in the hospitality industry by winning the Business Traveller Middle East Award for the Best Business Hotel in Manama 2015. The awards, organized by the Business Traveller Middle East publication, aim to reward excellence in the field of business travel, comprehensively covering every aspect of travel, especially for executive travellers celebrating the very best of travel. And as such, the highly prominent ceremony was attended by more than 350 eminent executives across the travel industry. InterContinental Hotels and Resorts are dedicated to superior, understated service and outstanding facilities, but what makes them truly different is the genuine interest they show in their guests. There are 178 InterContinental Hotels and Resorts around the world and 53 hotels in the development pipeline, which will open over the next five years. 104 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Palace Boutique Hotel Wins Award
In an event held by the Specific Council for Training in Hospitality, Hussain Meftah from the Palace Boutique Hotel was award for the category “Diligent Worker” among others from the hospitality industry. The Palace Boutique was also awarded as the company with the highest Bahrainization rate from 2014. The event was held under the patronage of HE the Minister of Labour at the Crowne Plaza, under the theme of Outstanding Hospitality Establishments in Bahrainization, Training for 2014 and Diligent Workers.
cars
Audi’s New Lease Plan Audi Bahrain, represented by Behbehani Brothers WLL, announced the launch of the Audi Lease Plan as an attractive and convenient alternative for customers interested in driving a new Audi. Among the many benefits included in the two-year plan are: zero down payment, full comprehensive insurance, free service and maintenance, and the option to buy or upgrade the vehicle on expiry of the lease. All vehicles are brand new, 2015 model year Audi cars with a two-year lease on an Audi A3 starting at BD245 per month. Leasing options are also available for the Audi A6 and A8 as well as the Q5 and Q7 from the brand’s SUV range, offering flexibility based on the individual requirements of each customer. Upon the expiry of the two-year lease period, customers have the option to either buy the vehicle at a pre-agreed value or return the car to Audi and upgrade to a newer model. Subject to approval, participation in the Lease Plan also removes the requirement for a down payment, which is a standard prerequisite when purchasing a new car. For more info visit the Audi Centre in Sitro or call Tel. +973 1745 9933
CAR NEWS Motorcity Delivers New Fleet Motorcity, the sole distributor of Subaru cars in Bahrain, delivered a fleet of 13 Subaru XV cars to Axis Rent a Car at Subaru’s showroom in Sitra. Bijan Majidi, General Manager of Motorcity and Sooraj Kumaran, Fleet Sales Manager handed over the keys of the Subaru XV cars to Eziddin Ali, Managing Director of Axis Rent a Car and Salah Hussain Executive Director of Axis Rent a Car. For more info, visit motorcity.com.bh
Audi Bahrain Sales Manager, Allen Blake
Nissan’s Ramadan Offers!
The Motorcity & Axis Rent a Car Teams
YK Almoayyed & Sons launched its very popular Nissan Ramadan campaign a month early as part of the brand’s tradition to reward its esteemed customers with much more value and cheer during this period. The promotion “Get More for Less” includes some of the best offers like the new Micra starting from BD3,995, the new Sunny starting from BD4,495, the Nissan Sentra 1.6S starting at just BD5,995. For Nissan customers who prefer crossovers, Nissan offers the stylish Juke from BD6,995, X-Trail from BD7,995, the family oriented Pathfinder from BD10,995 and the Nissan Patrol at BD15,995 for a limited period only. Customers can also avail of trade in deals if they wish to sell their existing car and buy a brand new Nissan car. All customers can also take advantage of some very attractive finance rates being offered during this promotion. During the period from 17th May to 16th July, the Nissan showroom in Sitra will have extended working hours, from 8am to 9pm, Sunday to Thursday. During Ramadan, the showroom will be open from 9am to 1pm and 7.30pm to 11.30pm everyday excluding Fridays when the showroom will be open between 7.30pm to 11.30pm. For more info, call Tel. +973 1773 2732 or visit the Nissan showroom in Sitra
Bahrain Confidential June 2015 105
opinion
Letter From Bahrain
John R Ridley
John Ridley talks about 'this time of the year'.
I
n the UK, I live with my family on a hill overlooking the tiny fishing town of Lyme Regis; from home we enjoy stunning views across the English Channel and an ever-present sea breeze. Having spent much of my life living on islands, or besides the sea, the wind has been ever present. Seeing fishing boats swept away, and Saint Claire, the Aberdeen to Lerwick ferry, unable to berth, I knew only too well the shear power of the wind. Later, as Masirah was struck by a hurricane, I was again reminded that man has no control over the forces of nature. Hurricanes aside, living on Masirah Island, we were blessed with a cooling sea breeze; and as most of the fishing dhows were powered by sails, the wind was essential for life on the island. Today, much as I love living
Saint Claire 106 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
in Rome for part of the year, during the hot summer months I long for a gentle cooling breeze. At home in Lyme Regis, I write at my favourite desk alongside open French windows overlooking the town and sea; Poppy, our ageing dog, lies behind me enjoying the breeze and the scents carried on the wind from the town and fishing harbour in the distance. This time of year the woods and fields are teeming with blue bells and wild garlic; the hedgerows too are full of life. In the sun, lavender and thyme bushes are laden with bees collecting pollen, some destined for glorious local honey. If Poppy isn’t helping me, she’ll be wandering in the garden, or sitting with us on the balcony, nose twitching. With arthritis in her legs, Poppy is content with short
manageable strolls in the fields and along the cliffs, enjoying the sea breeze in her face. As a young dog she would run around the fields, following the scent of long gone rabbits, or chasing leaves blowing in the wind. For our lovely old dog, the most tantalising smell is to be found in the late evening, usually during the last walk of the night, when we often meet a beautiful red fox in the garden. As soon as he knows we are there, he’s gone, into the hedges, as silently as he came - waiting for us to leave.
John Ridley is a Bahrain based journalist, writer and broadcaster; he can be contacted at john@johnridley.media
Pets pets
HOME! Home! Please Looking For A Give Us A
If only animals could talk, you’d be hearing their sad, pitiful stories. But since they can’t, we are giving these adorable creatures a voice. One way or another, they have been hurt and abused in ways you would not imagine a human doing to another creature, and yet the fact remains that these animals end up abandoned and left for dead all over the If only animals could talk, you’d be hearing their sad, pitiful stories. But since they can’t, we are giving these adorable creatures a voice. One way or another, they have been Kingdom. If you’re thinking of buying a pet, please hurt and abused in ways you would not imagine a human doing to another creature, and yet the fact remains that theseone animals end up abandoned and left for dead all over don’t - instead, adopt today. the Kingdom. If you’re thinking of buying a pet, please don’t - instead, adopt one today.
BSPCA Animals
BSPCA Animals Interested in Adopting?
Bongo
Bon-Bon cassy
Visit the BSPCA in Animal Welfare Centre in Askar, see www.bspca.org for directions. Open for adoption viewing Sunday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday and Saturday, 9am to 1pm. Tel. +973 1759 1231. Sweep cairo
Fudge heffer
Pickle elaine
samsonite
tabitha
sherlock
Berney hunter
lisa
Oreo
shultz Tabasco
Riplay
Pancake
Kunja
tuffy
hester
Blade
Interested in Adopting?
Visit the BSPCA in Animal Welfare Centre in Askar, see www.bspca.org for directions. Open for adoption viewing Sunday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday and Saturday, 9am to 1pm. Tel. +973 1759 1231.
Tony The Dogfather
Interested in Adopting? Rainbow
Apparition 01
02
03
04
Call Tony ‘The Dogfather’ Waters on Tel. +973 3962 9889 or visit www.thedogfatherbahrain.com 05
06
Punch
Mary Sunshine 07
08
09
10
11
Jipsy
12
Ralphie Fosterma
Tony The Dogfather Kits
Dumped Puppies
Interested in Adopting?
Call Tony ‘The Dogfather’ Waters on Tel. +973 3962 9889 or visit www.thedogfatherbahrain.com
Do youhave haveanimal animal concerns? NeedNeed a vet? Call Do you concerns? Animal Clinic Care in Hamala, Tel. +973 a vet? CallCare Animal Clinic in 1761 2459 Hamala, Tel. +973Tel.1761 or or Nonie Coutts, +973 2459 1724 5515. Nonie Tel.3334 +973 1724 5515. Tails,Coutts, Tel.+973 7711 / Emergency Tel. +973 6633 4537 Bahrain Confidential June 2015 107
October 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 111
interview
Chef Susy Shares A ‘Byte’
108 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
interview Growing Years...
Krazy Kitchen Memory!
I don’t have a glamorous background. I grew up in Milano, cooking at my grandmother’s restaurant. It was a simple blue-collar trattoria (an Italian restaurant serving simple food) where the food was cooked through simple techniques with the best ingredients, and lots of love and pride. I loved the aroma, the noise and the organised chaos, and the fact that women were at the helm in that kitchen – the men where swooshed off every time they tried to enter!
I worked in the USA for 10 years during which I had a very challenging chef on my team. He was nice but argued a lot and ‘drank’ like a fish – even while working, sometimes! Once we were having a busy service, I was thirsty and drank from his cup by mistake. Now, I thought it was water but it was ‘you know what’ instead. I started choking and the entire dining room went silent (we had an open kitchen). When I finally managed to breathe, I started cursing and yelling in Italian and our guests were in splits. Even today, I don’t know what was funny but hey, the laughter kept me from killing the guy that night!
Did you eat your veggies? Always, in very large quantities and in all varieties cooked, juiced and raw!
Favourite Food Memory...
Having over 40 years of rich experience under her toque, Susy Massetti is part owner and head chef at one of Bahrain’s better-known Italian restaurants. Melissa Nazareth discovers her humble beginnings in a candid chat.
Once, I got back from school, complaining that my friends had eaten pizzas that day but I had to eat just bread and butter. The next morning, nonna (my grandmother) handed me an oily brown bag and said, “Here, I make you pizza!” I was so excited and could barely wait for break time. When I finally opened my lunch bag, I found two thick slices of bread topped and baked with cheese and tomato sauce – far from the look of a pizza – but I will never forget the flavours. It remained a family favourite even after many years.
Dream Restaurant... I already have it; Masso is “my restaurant” in many ways. I’m grateful to the owner who made me a partner, but more importantly I’m grateful for the opportunity to realise my dream – owning a restaurant. Masso is a beautiful place tailored around my team and me. The trust, freedom and support I enjoy are great. I can purchase or grow the best ingredients and have some of the most loyal and wonderful guests. For bookings at Masso, call Tel. +973 1772 1061
Is organic food hyped? Heck no! I hope it is only the beginning to an improved lifestyle! We are what we eat and if we really pay attention to what we buy, we will see the benefits. Our Budaiya farm is small but sufficient to support us entirely. I have a team of 6 gardeners that alternate between our farm and our gardens here at the Palace Boutique Hotel. We have a very knowledgeable, young horticulturalist who patiently listens to all my crazy requests. Our resources include a well and an ARO plant to treat water through filters. This retains all the necessary minerals while extracting any trace of salt. We also grow our own seeds which are better adapted to Bahrain's environment. Though our potatoes, garlic and red onions come from a small organic supplier in Saudi Arabia, our herbs, petite vegetables as well as heirloom tomatoes, beans, beets, cabbage and kale are locally grown. If we need to supplement our stock, we use a couple of hydroponic growers here in Bahrain. All our ingredients are 100 per cent organic with absolutely no chemicals.
Cooking Tip for Home Cooks... Relax, be patient and have fun!
Favourite Home Snack... Honestly, cheese and bread, fruits and big salads, and if I’m really in the mood, I make a sandwich.
Tidbits! • Your best friend in the kitchen: A good knife • Most challenging ingredient to work with: Seafood! You got to delicately balance the flavours. • A chef whose food you admire: Ming Tsai, a Chinese American chef was the first to embrace French/old world techniques and mix them with Asian flavors. Also, he is unpretentious and honest – gave up a possibly very good television career to cater to his food, guests and restaurants in Chicago. • Your favourite wine: A plumy, chewy Zinfandel from Storybook Mountain Vineyards in Napa Valley. • Your 'last supper' meal or 'death row' meal as Anthony Bourdain puts it: A slab of seared foie gras with a spicy figs compote followed by a pasta al pomodoro – simply a linguine tossed with fresh tomatoes and basil (and lots of chili) – and a beautiful millefeuille au pralines with a glass of a buttery American chardonnay from Chalk Hills.
For Chef Susy's recipes
Bahrain Confidential June 2015 109
recipes Ingredients:
Stave-off the summer heat with Chef Susy Massetti’s flavourful WATERMELON, FETA & MINT SALAD
• 1kg watermelon cut in cubes • 1 sweet red onion • 2tbsp balsamic vinegar • ½ cup loosely packed fresh mint • 150gms feta cheese, crumbled • Salt & Pepper to taste
Method: • Peel and thinly slice the onion. • Combine the oil, vinegar, salt and pepper, and whisk until the salt is dissolved. • Add in the chopped mint and adjust if needed. • In a serving bowl, combine the melon, onion and feta. Pour the dressing over it and toss gently until well mixed. Garnish with mint sprigs. You can grill the watermelon slightly and let it cool before making the salad, the added flavour makes a big difference to the final result!
Ingredients:
Chef Susy Massetti’s CHICKEN BRUSCHETTA makes for a wonderful light lunch or can even be rolled into a burrito for breakfast the next day.
• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, halved • 4tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 2tsp minced garlic • 1 large tomato, cored and chopped • Basil leaves, roughly chopped • 1tsp balsamic syrup • ½ cup diced fresh mozzarella cheese • Salt & pepper to taste • Red chili flakes, if desired
Method: • Sautee minced garlic in a non-stick pan with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. • Mix tomato, basil, sautéed garlic and dress with 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil. • Rub chicken with 1tbsp of olive oil, salt and pepper. • Sautee in a hot skillet for 2 to 3 minutes on each side on medium heat. • Place the chicken on an ovenproof dish. • Place ¼ of the mixture on each chicken breast. • Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on each. • Cook for few minutes or until cheese melts and serve immediately.
110 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
opinion
Taste Life!
John Ridley talks about reconnecting with the food chain. John R Ridley
B
rowsing the magazine racks of an airport shop, I found a copy of a diabetic lifestyle magazine; seemingly, having quickly looked through the magazine, it’s easier, or at least more profitable, to change a disease into a way of life, than to change the way we eat. How we eat is not only essential for our health, but is one of the most important ways of expressing and conserving cultural identity; with many thousands of enticing new food products reaching the supermarket shelves every year - backed by billions of dollars for marketing campaigns, cultural identity is the first casualty of a society consumed by the industrialisation of our diet. According to the USDA, since the widespread adoption of chemical fertilisers in the 1950s, the nutritional quality of produce has declined substantially. The sheer quantity of foods on sale in today’s supermarket hides the reality that the diversity of our diet is rapidly declining leading to devastating consequences for the world’s food security. Even the simplest of foods is a highly complex mix of chemical compounds, existing in intricate and dynamic relationships with one another. The industrial food manufacturers seduce us through the misuse of nutritional science and implied health benefits of their products, basing their claims upon the addition or removal of a single nutrient. To make their marketing claims, food technologists consider individual nutrients and study
“…what would happen if, once again, we were to think about food as relationships within nature - that is precisely what eating has always been.”
those one by one, even if that means ignoring subtle interactions and contexts, and that the whole may well be more than the sum of its parts. We may know how to break a vegetable down to its constituent chemicals, but we have no idea how to put it back together again destroying complexity is a lot easier than creating it. The good news is that we can ignore the marketing hype and view our diet as a diverse mix of foods instead of a bunch of nutrients; we don‘t need to understand the complexity of a carrot to reap its benefits. As industrialised agriculture became established in the thirties, the English agronomist Sir Albert Howard, found that cows grazing on spring grass were healthier than those fed unnatural diets; the health of the people who subsisted on those animals was better too. Howard argued that industrialisation, and the introduction of synthetic fertilisers, would break the links between local wildlife, soil, food, and people - disrupting the whole food chain, simplifying the chemical makeup of the soil, and destroy biodiversity - eventually taking its toll upon our health. Industrialisation of our food is both unsustainable and unable to meet the nutritional requirements of the human body; what would happen if, once again, we were to think about food as relationships within nature - that is precisely what eating has always been.
John Ridley is a Bahrain based journalist, writer and broadcaster, he can be contacted at john@johnridley.media
Bahrain Confidential June 2015 111
gastro
Al Noor Tent
Ramadan Kareem Try out the ghabgas at these luxurious tents in Bahrain. Elite Resort & Spa
end in an exquisite feast followed by a scrumptious spread for Ghabga.
Al Noor Tent:
Klouds: The Iftar buffet will feature Arabic cuisine along with a selection of international dishes. Dig into some delicious tabbouleh, hammour, machboos, chicken molokhia, lamb tagine, kofta bi laban and Bahrani ouzi. Don’t miss the Arabic sweet treats like um ali, baklawa, kunafa, kallaj and more! BD9++
Iftar Indulge in a lavish international buffet along with traditional Bahraini Ramadan dishes including Thareed, Hareesa, Madhrooba. Arabic sweets, dates and fruits are on the menu too! You can also refresh with Ramadan beverages such as Jallab, Tamarind, Karkade, Qamer Al Deen, Laban and fresh juices. Timings from Maghreb prayer until 8pm for BD8.5++ for adults and BD4.25++ for kids
Ghabga Enjoy live Arabic music, traditional games like Backgammon while you relax with the best shisha’s. Don’t miss the daily raffle draw and win exciting prizes. Entertainment for kids and the whole family is in store. Timings from 8.30pm until late for BD12.9++ for adults and kids BD6.45++/kids below 6 years FREE and above 12 years considered adults
Suhoor BD5.5++ for adults and kids FREE Special discounts for groups of 50+ persons. For bookings, call Tel. +973 3627 5444
The K Hotel Reward yourself at sundown with a banquet of tantalising treats at Iftar. Your long day of fasting must 112 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Kenza: Feast on regional and Lebanese food and
enjoy a range of shisha flavours until the early hours of the morning while you enjoy live Arabic entertainment.
the hotel has prepared to date and possibly one of the largest Ramadan tent of any of Bahrain’s Luxury Hotels.
Food & Entertainment Bassem Osman’s band will perform a classic, traditional Arabic music in the Ramadan tent from 10pm to 1.30am. Sofitel Bahrain’s team of expert Chefs will serve a sumptuous Iftar & Ghabga buffet. Iftar and Ghabga prices are set at BD19++ For bookings, call Tel. +973 1763 6363
Special corporate rates and outdoor catering services available. For bookings, call Tel. +973 1736 0000 or email banquet@thekhotel.com
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Experience the joy and happiness of a Magnifique Ramadan with your friends and family under the stars at Sofitel Bahrain’s Ramadan Tent. The hotel is preparing to begin construction of it’s fourth Ramadan tent which at the moment is planned as the largest
Ramadan at Sofitel Bahrain
gastro Ranin & Inset : The Ahlam Trio
Delicioius desserts at Crowne Plaza Bahrain
Crowne Plaza Bahrain Enjoy the hospitality at Crowne Plaza’s ballroom in the Bahrain Conference Centre. The beautifully and traditionally decorated ambiance with a capacity to serve over 1000 guests is what best describes this Ramadan destination! Harvesters Bar & Terrace, Tracks Sports Bar, Spices Indian Restaurant and Waves Seafood Restaurant will all be closed throughout the month of Ramadan.
La Mosaique will be serving Iftar daily, 8.30pm
onwards, for BD12.5++ per person
Julio’s:
• Every Thursday & Friday - Iftar Buffet BD7++ per adult • During the week days - Iftar Buffet BD6++ per adult • Suhoor BD4.8 ++ per adult
EID SPECIAL On the last day of Ramadan enjoy Elite hospitality from 12.30am to 3.30am for BD8.5++ per adult
H2O lounge:
• Ghabga every night for BD10++ per adult For bookings, call Tel. +973 1756 5888
EID HAPPENINGS Enjoy a special Eid Lunch Buffet in La Mosaique, for only BD13++ per person with entertainment for kids.
Bushido
For bookings, call Tel. +973 1752 1122
“Bushra” returns for the fourth successive year and this Ramadan will once again transform the opulent Japanese-pagoda into a modern Arabic experience. “Bushra” translates to “Good News” and there’s plenty of it for you: get ready to indulge in exciting new dishes with a Persian touch such as Duck in Pomegranate Walnut Sauce and Beef Lentil Stew. Signature dishes at Bushra like Pink Hummus and Mathrooba Balls will also be served. Those who love the Japanese and international dishes can enjoy too and there will be live cooking stations as well. Don’t miss sipping on laban and other such beverages plus your shisha fix for the season!
Elite Seef Residence & Hotel Il Giardino: Enjoy Iftar & Ghabga with your loved ones at Il Giardino’s beautiful poolside setting! The Ramadan buffet spread will include authentic Arabic dishes and treats.
Iftar Buffet for BD7.5 net for adults and BD3 net for kids
Ghabga for BD10 net Suhoor for BD4 net for residents and non-residents BD5 net For bookings, call Tel. +973 1758 3388
Elite Grande Hotel Enjoy live cooking stations this Ramadan, from grills to shawarma and Saj, accompanied by a generous salad bar and appetizers and dessert!
Trader Vic’s “Ranin”, returns for the second year at Trader Vic’s, promising to deliver an innovative and surprising concept for guests to enjoy during Ramadan. Traditional dishes will be served in an avant-garde style, artistically echoing the monochrome theme of the décor: the white asparagus and deeply hued Aberdeen Angus steak of Ying & Yang, the Black Sea dish which comprises of black squid and charcoaled tiger prawns in pasta, served with white truffle foam and topped with black summer truffle shavings, in addition to a wide selection of delicious monochromatic starters, mezze and desserts. Enjoy live music by the “Ahlam Trio” as you dig into your buffet for both Iftar & Ghabga dining. A la Carte is also available. Enjoy unlimited starters and desserts PLUS beverages and shisha! BD12.5 includes 1 main course/ BD14.5 includes 2 main courses/ BD16 includes 3 main courses All prices are subject to 15 per cent service charge and 5 per cent Government tax. For bookings, call Tel. +973 1758 6555
• Iftar: until 8pm; BD15* weekdays, BD17* net weekends • Ghabga: 9pm-1am; BD13* weekdays, BD15* weekends • Shisha Lounge: until 1am; BD7* regular shisha, BD9* fresh or special fresh shisha *All prices are subject to 15 per cent service charge and 5 per cent Government levy For bookings, call Tel. +973 1758 3555
Please be aware that timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.
Continue ... Bahrain Confidential June 2015 113
gastro
Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa
Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain
Enjoy a wonderful Ramadan with a sumptuous Iftar buffet which will run from sunset until 9pm and a delectable Ghabga buffet which will start from 9pm until 2am. Both priced at BD14++
This Ramadan, spend a wonderful time with family and friends at Movenpick’s Ghabgas and Iftars. There will be a wide selection of delicious Arabic and International dishes prepared by expert chefs.
Eid Brunch Feast your eyes on our special Eid brunch at Lemon Tree on the second day of Eid. Guests are invited to enjoy a delectable with Middle Eastern favourites, classic dishes from around the world, with live cooking stations and live entertainment. Timings from 2pm to 4pm and prices at BD18++/half price for kids. Children will also be taken care of while they enjoy activities and entertainment designed just for them.
Daily Ramadan Iftar buffet
Enjoy an extensive selection the regions favorite dishes served in a beautiful and traditional setting for BD15++ at the Gallery Lobby Lounge & Silks Restaurant
Eid themed Friday Brunch
Enjoy a special Eid feast from 12.30pm until 4pm for BD25++ with unlimited selected beverages at the Gallery Lobby Lounge, Silks Restaurant and Flamingo bar.
For bookings, call Tel. +973 1711 1999
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay
Some of the dishes from Mövenpick’s delicious Ramadan buffet
For bookings, call Tel. +973 1746 0017
Celebrate the Kingdom’s luxurious, rich culture and heritage, this Ramadan, at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. The Al Bahrain Ballroom includes the main dining area and shisha lounge overlooking the Manama Skyline, all dressed up in a modern Arabesque theme.
For Iftar the buffet features a wide selection of traditional Bahraini fare as well as Lebanese, Egyptian, Indian, Asian and global cuisines with a number of live cooking stations. Prices at BD25++ from sunset until 8pm. For Ghabga there will be an array of Arabic and
internationally inspired dishes and desserts. Prices at BD26++ from 9pm until 2am.
For Entertainment professional live band will play mellow traditional tunes in the shisha lounge during the holy month.
Beautiful Ramadan traditions at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay
Bahrain Bay Kitchen has pioneered a new dining
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa
InterContinental Regency Bahrain
For Eid there will be a wide international buffet with
Experience Arabic hospitality this Ramadan at Al Khayma with an extensive nightly buffet of authentic Middle Eastern specialties, contemporary décor and live Arabic music. There will be live cooking and talented Chefs flown in from Lebanon to wow you with their creations. Private pergolas are also available. Price is BD24++ per person for Iftar, and BD26++ per person for Ghabga.
Feel the spirit of Ramadan at Al Thurayya tent this season. Share a delectable feast as you break your fast with your loved ones at our special Arabic Iftar and Ghabga. Exclusive Corporate Packages also available with international menu options.
concept focusing on live cooking stations, sections devoted to particular international cuisines. Prices at BD18++ for Iftar and Suhoor.
live entertainment in Bahrain Bay Kitchen for BD35++ including beverages served from 12.30pm until 4 pm.
For Eid Brunch Arabic favourites dig into some
delicious Bahraini food as well as Persian and Indian specialties at the Ramadan tent for BD 25++ served from 12.30pm till 3.30pm. For bookings, call Tel. +973 1711 5000
114 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Iftar buffet starts from BD13++ per person Ghabga buffet starts from BD15++ per person. For bookings, call Tel. +973 1720 8308
For bookings, call Tel. +973 1758 6499
gastro
What to do before Ramadan?
Brunches and Nightlife you must not miss this month. Bushido Brand New Bento Boxes Enjoy a healthy lunch from Saturday to Thursday for BD7.5 to BD12.5 net
Friday Brunch Relax over the weekend with your
friends and family with unlimited food and drink from noon to 3.30pm for BD22.2 net/BD29.4 net
Smart Menu If you’re having a busy day at work, grab delicious lunch from Saturday to Thursday within 30 minutes from ordering – a 3-course menu for BD10 net Sunset A lovely, early dinner is always welcome after
a long weekday. Get a 15 per cent discount on what you eat from Sunday to Wednesday, 7pm to 8.30pm
buffet complete with French delicacies every Thursday, 7pm to 10.30pm for BD18/BD22 net at Saraya
Serata Italiana – Italian Night every Monday at Saraya and Fiamma from 7pm to 10.30pm for BD18net per person. Feast on a lavish Italian buffet with homemade pizzas, pastas and traditional desserts.
Friday Brunch Mediterranean and Middle Eastern specialties at La Med for BD29 net from 12.30pm to 4.30pm
Sunset Chill Out from 3pm to 6pm. Sip a cocktail
Black & White Nights Signature Black and White
Kid’s Night Out Every Thursday from 7pm onwards, parents can enjoy dinning in one of the hotel’s restaurants while they leave their children to enjoy the activities of the Kids Club. Children can also enjoy a kid’s meal free of charge! Children under 4 years must be escorted by a parent/guardian at all times - babysitting services can be pre-arranged.
Burger for BD25++/22++ respectively at Plums every Wednesday, 7pm onwards Arabic Night Middle Eastern buffet with live cooking stations every Friday, 7pm to 11pm for BD18++ at La Med
Royal Sports Member’s Party – Brazilian Fiesta Celebrate like you are in Copacabana for
while you enjoy the sunset view on the terrace of Tapas Bar. Ladies get one free drink voucher!
Ladies Night Out Ladies can enjoy a 50 per cent
BD20 net for members/BD25 net for non-members on 4th June, 8pm onwards at the Overlook
discount on all food and beverages every Monday from 7pm onwards at all bars and restaurants of the hotel.
For bookings, call Tel. +973 1758 6499
For bookings, call Tel. +973 1763 6363
For bookings, call Tel. +973 1758 3555
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Seafood Night Every Wednesday and Thursday, 7pm to 11pm at La Med for BD18++
Sushi Wednesdays Get your sushi fix for BD 17 net at Thai Lounge, from 6pm until 11pm
Business Lunch Sunday to Thursday, noon to 3pm at Primavera for BD15++ Thali Business Lunch Enjoy an Indian lunch packed with flavour at Nirvana for BD9++ daily, 12pm to 3pm
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Trader Vic’s Thalassa Sea & Spa Mai-Tai Summer Closing Party Mai Tai Lounge Arabic Brunch from 12.30pm to 3.30pm for
BD18net per person/BD22net per person including house beverages. Enjoy exquisite Arabian specialties.
Friday Brunch from 12.30pm to 4pm for BD32net per person including house beverages. Enjoy live entertainment while you choose from live cooking stations and relish Asian, Italian, Seafood and Arabic cuisine enhanced by a French hospitality. Seasons of France Enjoy a unique and sumptuous
Please be aware that timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.
bids farewell to yet another season, closing until the autumn. Enjoy one last fun evening with an open bar for BD45 with unlimited drinks on 13th June, 9pm until late
Wahine Tuesday Don’t miss the last one this season, on 2nd and 9th June, 6pm to 10pm with ladies enjoying free entry, drinks and a selection of Trader Vic’s tidbits For bookings, call Tel. +973 1758 6555 Continue ... Bahrain Confidential June 2015 115
gastro
Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Seafood Night Dig into fresh, delicious fish and
other seafood dishes every Monday at Silk’s from 7pm to 11pm for BD18++/22++
Thursday Night Out Relish prime cuts of juicy US
beef with more gourmet food, exotic drinks and great music across the Gallery Lobby Lounge and Silks restaurant from 7pm to 11pm for BD22++ (free flow of beverages and cocktails)
Friday Brunch The islands most popular brunch at Silks restaurant, Flamingo bar and the Gallery Lobby Lounge from 12.30pm to 4pm for BD25++ with unlimited Mojitos and Irish Coffees For bookings, call Tel. +973 1746 0017
Succulent, prime cuts of juicy US beef at Mövenpick Bahrain’s Thursday Night Out
Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Friday Family Brunch at Lemon Tree, 12pm to 4pm with Middle Eastern favourites, kids’ entertainment and family fun for BD18++ for adults and half price for kids Seafood Night at Lemon Tree every Thursday for
BD14++ with mouthwatering lobsters, shrimp, octopus and more!
Executive Lunch Buffet at Lemon Tree on weekdays, 12.30pm to 3.30pm for BD9 net Jashn-E-Kebab at Rasoi every weekend, 12.30pm to 3pm for BD10 and biryani with free flow of soft beverages for BD15++ Rome Promotion at Rialto daily, 7pm to 11.30pm – free for kids under 10 years High Tea at Tea Garden daily from 3pm to 6pm for BD7++
Sushi Lunch Unlimited at Ruka daily from 12.30pm to 3.30pm for BD12++
Ramadan at Lanterns Bahrain’s favourite Indian restaurant is set to welcome the holy month of Ramadan. Lanterns will serve a sumptuous, varied menu with global hits originating from the Indian subcontinent including curries, grills, a variety of breads and other dishes.
Late Night Party at Ruka every Thursday, 11pm to
2am with one free drink for ladies!
Spread across five locations – Budaiya, Adliya, Durrat Al Bahrain, Juffair and Riffa –this restaurant chain comprises some of the most value for money eateries in Bahrain. At the same time, they offer impeccable service and a lovely, dim-lit ambiance, which gives the restaurants a fine dining touch.
One On Me One On You at Ruka daily, 3.30pm to
The Menu
Happy Hour at Red Lions, 4pm to 8pm with 50 per cent discount on selected drinks Ladies Night at Ibrida on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9pm to 1am with free flowing of selected beverages
Diners can also look forward to a live cooking station for stir-fry dishes, and a seafood corner where you can handpick your fish and have it prepared the way you like it. The large salad bar consists of up to 12 different kinds of salads.
6.30pm with buy one drink and get one free!
The menu consists of four types of starters including soups and grills, which are served on the table in a small barbecue apparatus.
Happy Hour at Ibrida every Thursday, 7pm to 10pm
For the main course, you are spoiled for choice with 10 delicious preparations. Chicken makhani and mutton rogan josh are the chef’s favourites and a must- try. Those with a sweet tooth will love the array of sweet treats, displayed on the dessert trolley.
For bookings, call Tel, +973 1711 1999
Iftar buffet at the Budaiya branch is priced at BD5.9 and at Adliya and Riffa branches BD6.9. For bookings, call Tel. +973 1759 0591 (Budaiya), +973 1725 0999 (Adliya) and +973 7736 6333 (Riffa).
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Jenny Thomas Reviews The Beef Haven
THE MEAT CO.
I occasionally would love me some meat! So couple of weeks ago, I dined at The Meat Co, located in Adliya’s bustling restaurant alley. The interior is a fabulous mix of wood, stone, giving itself the rustic kind of look. In I go with my friend, knowing that I could rely on him to finish half of my food. The way I see it, your dining experience is made fantastic by three things: Interiors, Service and Food; and this restaurant does all three perfectly. Meat-eaters can indulge in prime cuts of perfectly aged and grilled beef, succulent ribs, burgers and flame-grilled skewers. There is also number of options for the salad, chicken and seafood lovers. So we start off with the Salt & Pepper Calamari and Red Chili Prawns. The calamari’s were just the way we like it- CRISPY. The prawns had an interesting thai-ish flavor to it. Our main- course consisted of American (CAB) Certified Angus Beef- New Yorker and Barbeque Beef Ribs with some grape to go with it. Yes, I ordered the ribs. I’m smart that way, thinking I could stuff my face with it all. Bear in mind, the portions here are HUGE. The meat was just so good that it came easily off the bone and melted in my mouth. The New Yorker was tender, juicy and incredibly flavorful! We really tried but couldn’t finish it all. So, we took it home and it made for a good lunch the next day! Now, if at this point you still have space in your tummy for desserts, make sure you order the Vanilla Crème Brûlée. It gets tastier with every bite. So, fantastic vibe, fantastic people, fantastic food! The Meat Co. is the definition of a very welcome shake-up to the modern day beast eating! For bookings, call: +973 1774 2080 Ingredients: • A large bunch of coriander • 400gms bean sprouts • 100gms cashew nuts • ½ a red chili • 1 small ripe mango • Sesame oil • Honey to drizzle • Soy sauce to dress the salad • 1 lemon to dress the salad
What’s cooking with AHSAN? is a cook-book of favourite recipes. Ahsan who lives in Bahrain has learning disabilities but that doesn’t stop him from following his dreams! Try this refreshing, light and crunchy ASIAN SALAD from his recipe book.
Preparation: • Set aside a few coriander sprigs for garnish, then pick the leaves of the remainder and put them into a large bowl. Finely slice the stalks, add to the bowl with the bean sprouts and set aside. • Put a large frying pan on a low heat. Wrap the cashews in a clean towel and crush them, then put them in the empty frying pan. Add a bit of sesame oil, toss and lave to toast. When they are golden in colour remove from pan. Add a good drizzle of honey, then toss and set aside. • Finely slice the chili and mango. Add them into the salad. Tip the honey, toasted cashews over the top. • Dress with soy sauce and lemon Thank you Kay King, coach for students with learning disabilities, for making Ahsan’s dream a reality. Support autism by buying Ahsan’s book at Jashanmal stores/The Bookcase, Budaiya for BD5 only
Bahrain Confidential June 2015 117
lifestyle
Last Word
Horoscopes CANCER: 22 June - 22 July
CAPRICORN: 22 December - 19 January
LEO:
AQUARIUS: 20 January - 18 February
Widen your social circle, won’t you? Use the first half of the month to explore and the second to work – more organised! 23 July - 21 August
June is important for communication. Keep busy doing what you love and it’s okay if things take a bit longer than planned.
Often, I come across people who tell me Bahrain is boring! Why? Well, there is nothing to do here. You can, at best, dine at a restaurant, watch a movie at the cinemas, or shop at the mall. I beg to differ.
Look forward to your aspirations coming true this month. Though don’t count on yourself to be too logical. Keep the big decision making at bay.
Your artistic dreams are coming true. Be wise and don’t forget about your appearance. Visit a stylist and just get a makeover.
Bahrain is not what it used to be a decade ago. The pace of social life was slow back in the days but a lot has changed over the years. Today, there is so much happening, if only you know where to look.
VIRGO: 22 August - 21 September
PISCES: 19 February - 20 March
The Ministry of Culture has been coming up with many festivals showcasing local and international talent. There are a few who ridicule it saying only ‘Western’ artists are invited and that’s not the ‘culture’ of the country. True that there are many international names but there are quite a few Arab musicians and artists who are invited too! Instead of demeaning the efforts of the government, we need to encourage the authorities to continue such projects; these initiatives not only have entertainment value but also put the Kingdom on the globe!
There are a lot of surprises coming your way. You’ll see yourself as more enthusiastic. Love is on the cards.
LIBRA: 22 September - 22 October
Finances look good this month. How nice! Go with the flow and be prepared for last minute changes. Don’t worry too much!
ARIES: 21 March - 19 April
Stop thinking so much! This month is great for new ideas, so, relax but don’t ignore your priorities.
You might find the first half of the month a bit dull as you’re feeling lazy. Though you need to relax. Health is a crucial aspect this month.
SCORPIO: 23 October - 22 November
TAURUS: 20 April - 20 May
SAGITTARIUS: 23 November -
GEMINI: 21 May - 21 June
In addition to large scale events like these, many private institutions and individuals are pushing for quality entertainment – Malja, Alwan 338, local and regional comedy clubs, music festivals, theatre groups, professional writing circles, watersports & pearl diving, bikers in Bahrain, beach cleaning, charity bazaars, pet walkathons, triathlons and the list is endless.
Your social life is blossoming. Be thankful Things have been a little rough so far but and relax. Health and career success is in now it’s time to cheer up! Finances are about store from the second week of the month. to fall in place and old relationships revive.
There are many sites that talk about what’s happening on the island. You just need to log on to find out! So, the next time you’re bored and want to blame Bahrain, think again!
Don’t let your intuition get the better of you. Stay optimistic and focus on family issues. Compromise to be happy.
118 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
21 December
Very busy, aren’t we? There are lots of commitments to take care of Say ‘no’ if you must but don’t break promises. Get some creativity flowing.
listings
BAHRAIN CONFIDENTIAL’S
LITTLE BLACK BOOK A mini-directory, we like to call it. All you need to know is right here! PARTY PLANNERS Arabian Events ................................................. +973 3331 7168 Hulla Baloo ...................................................... +973 3887 6086 Silly Billy Party Games & Suppliers ...................................... .............................................................................. +973 3939 3950 Noah’s Events ................................................. +973 3961 6463 D Party Designs ............................................ +973 3330 6955 Fatoom Events .............................................. +973 3900 4465 The Party People of Bahrain ......................... +973 1711 1005
THEMED PARTY VENUES Little Princess ................................................. +973 1756 4585 Life-fit Sports Parties ................................. +973 1769 2424 Artology ............................................................ +973 3978 9878 Mad Science ........................................................ +973 1759 1136 My Gym Parties ................................................ +973 1756 6566 PLAY ..................................................................... +973 1756 4900 Sticky Fingers ................................................. +973 3643 7418 Studio Ceramics .............................................. +973 1759 9026
PARTY ENTERTAINERS Snap a pose (Entertainment photo booth) ......................... ................................................................................ +973 3621 6267 Bookworms ................................................... +973 3606 3666 Lights, Sound System & Music .............. +973 3358 9868 Music & Lights – DJ Ralph .......................... +973 3979 7373 AR Sound & Lights ........................................... +973 3918 4110
Bahrain Confidential June 2015 119
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TAXIS & TRANSPORTATION Airport Taxis .............................................. +973 1726 0208 Bahrain Limos ........................................... +973 1726 6266 London Taxis ................................................ +973 1746 1746 Speedy Motors ........................................... +973 1768 2999 Saudi Bahraini Transport Co .................. +973 1732 1218
MUSIC & DJS DJ Mysterioo .................................................... +973 3777 7845 DJ Andy ........................................................ afd350@yahoo.com
PARTY COSTUMES & DECORATION Bloom-n-Fantasy .......................................... +973 1758 0393 Costume Chest .............................................. +973 3840 2099 Party Daze .......................................................... +973 1782 5523 Party Mania ........................................................ +973 1766 0515 Razmatazz ......................................................... +973 1759 4404 Special Moments ............................................. +973 1759 2227 Celebrations ....................................................... +973 1759 5791 Carousel .............................................................. +973 1768 5012
HOME CATERING Caesars Confectionery .............. +9731729 1761/1734 2694 Raffles Cake & Pastries ....... +973 1728 1481/6660 5000 Eastern Delights ............................................. +973 3531 5785 Lilou CafĂŠ ............................................................ +973 1771 4440 Le Chocolat ....................................................... +973 1758 2259
PHOTOGRAPHERS Mark Garcia ..................................................... +973 3688 5899 EK Tsubasa ........................................................ +973 3910 4397 Parvathi Ramanandan Photography ..................................... ................................................................................ +973 3664 4491 Essencia ............................................................ +973 3331 0693 Summer Weeks Photography .................. +973 3993 9445 Ali Sharaf ........................................................... +973 3663 9311 120 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
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THERAPY & WELLNESS
PHARMACIES
Ruyan Pharmacy ........................................... +973 1773 1316 Art of Living ................................................... +973 3988 8760 Jaffar Pharmacy .......................................... +973 1729 1039 Bahrain Meditation Centre .......................... +973 1779 5961 Indian Ayurvedic Medical Centre ............ +973 1772 2060 Life@Ease (Hypnotherapy) ...................... +973 399 72 707 Fiona Andrews (Hypnotherapy) ................ +973 39661724 Back On The Move (Oesteopathy) .......... +973 7730 0600
LOCAL BAKED GOODIES O-Bun ................................................................ +973 3653 3065 Macaron Bahrain .......................................... +973 3688 4848 Just Baked ........................................................ +973 3632 5757 Moustachio Cupcakes ................................ +973 3990 8470 Nom Nom ............................................................ +973 3374 1345 Cookie Jar ......................................................... +973 3947 6222 The Farrel’s Confectionary ....................... +973 3363 6583 Frosted by Rosh ............................................. +973 3999 6977 Retro Mama ...................................................... +973 7770 0222 A Piece of Cake ................................................. +973 1777 7909 Bakelicious ...................................................... +973 3351 9050 Clever Cupcakes .......................................... +973 3620 0680 Cake Boutique ................................................. +973 3919 2890
MASSAGE & TANNING COSMETICS & DENTAL The Gulf Dental Specialty Hospital ......... +973 1774 1444 Al Alawi Dental Centre ................................. +973 1725 5657 Dr Ali Mattar Dental Centre Consultants Group .............. .................................................................................. +973 1771 4877 Royal Aesthetic Centre (Dr Dean Gomes) ........................... .......................................................... +973 1724 6857/1724 6856 Ibn Al Nafees Hospital (Dr Raj Kumar Gang) ...................... ................................................................................ +973 1782 8223
CHOCOLATIERS Leaves Bahrain ................................................ +973 1759 9055 Godiva ................................................................. +973 1758 0699 Patchi ................................................................. +973 1749 0800 Le Chocolate ........................................................ +973 1717 9779 Maya ..................................................................... +973 1758 3368
Felda Cut & Style ....................................... +973 1722 4077 Bellacura Lounge & Salon ...................... +973 1736 4955 Profile Beauty Salon ................................... +973 1771 3155 N Spa ................................................................. +973 1781 1633 Joz Salon & Spa ............................................ +973 1736 9133 Lei Garden Skin Care .............................. +973 1729 0008 Cartel Men’s Salon ..................................... +973 1753 0876 Johnny & Co. ............................................... +973 1758 3362 Al Areen Palace Spa ................................. +973 1784 5000 Coral Spa ...................................................... +973 1729 0946 La Fontaine Spa ........................................... +973 1723 0123 Sherry Spa .................................................... +973 1782 4070 Sparadise, Elite Resort & Spa .................. +973 1731 3131 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa ......................... +973 1711 1999 VIE Lifestyle Lab, The Domain Bahrain ........................... ......................................................................... +973 1600 0000 Rimal Spa, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain ............................... .......................................................................... +973 1746 0000 Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel ....... ........................................................................... +973 1763 6363
HAIR EXTENSIONS Hair By Becca .............................................. +973 3618 8122
Bahrain Confidential June 2015 121
listings Marina Home Interiors
HOME ESSENTIALS Gas
Bahrain Gas ......................................................... +973 1770 2811
Pest Control
Bahrain Pest Control .................................. +973 1771 3408 Awal Pest Control ....................................... +973 1762 5530 Al Sherooqi Services .................................. +973 1753 2210
Home Furnishings
Debenhams .................................................... +973 1717 9887 Marina Home Interiors .......................................................... ........................................................ +973 1758 2752/1717 9509 Aqua Cool ............................................................. +973 1778 4101 ID Design ................................. +973 1759 2400/1773 2919 Home Basics ................................................ +973 1758 7701 Local Call Assistance Home Center .............................................. +973 1725 0034 100 Jashanmal ................................................... +973 1758 2424 Pottery Barn ................................................. +973 1717 8969 Local Directory Enquiries Dream Home Furniture ......................... +973 7701 6600 100
Water Suppliers
International Directory Enquiries 191
Weather Line
Maintenance
Pool Safety Middle East ............................ +973 3946 4119 Liverpool Services Window Cleaning ............................... .............................................................................. +973 1761 3244
+973 1723 6236
122 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Dream Home Furniture
GYMS Al Safir ................................................................... +973 1781 3815 Fitness First ...................................................... +973 1332 2200 Al Gosaibi ............................................................. +973 1729 3221 Profile Fitness Centre .................................... +973 1772 7766 Oxygen Gym ......................................................... +973 1761 6165 Bodyzone ............................................................ +973 1774 6289 Bodyline .............................................................. +973 1779 3932 Life-fit .................................................................. +973 3309 1261
listings
BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE
Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite
American
Asian
Bennigan’s 1781 3750 Al Safir Hotel, Juffair
Baan Saeng Thai Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/6pm to 12am
Blaze Burgers 1774 4773 Adliya, 11am to 12am Brasa de Brazil 1758 2225 Seef Mall, 12pm to 11pm Burger King 1750 6070 Juffair & other locations
Bali Orchid 1718 0424 Gudaibiya, 12pm to 12am Chin Li 1771 7717 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Curry Country 1753 7555 Juffair, 11am to 2am
Burger Lounge 3984 2840 Amwaj, 12pm to 12am
David’s Stir Fry 1754 0188 Adliya & 1 other location 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm
Burger Wisconsin 1759 4458 Sa’ar, 11am to 12am
Dajajio Chicken 1732 3244 Oasis Center, Muharraq
Chickey’s 1774 4144 Zinj & 2 other locations, 10am to 1am
Honey’s 3923 8507 Souq, Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 5.30pm/ Friday to Saturday 24 Hours
Chili’s 1758 1221 Seef Mall & other locations Dairy Queen 1750 6070 Juffair & other locations Downtown Bar 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Bahrain, 4pm to 2am. Elevation Burger 1758 7828 Seef Mall, 12pm to 11pm Fat Burger 1713 1414 Bahrain City Centre & 2 other locations 9am to 1am Franks a Lot 1781 1970 Juffair, 10am to 1am Fuddruckers 1774 2266 Adliya & 4 other locations, 8am to 12am Grub Shack 1713 1363 Al Hamala Hard Rock Café 1729 1569 Exhibition Road, 8am to 1am Jan Burger 1771 2505 Adliya & 5 other locations Johnny Rockets 1756 6565 Al A’ali Complex & 1 other location 8.30am to 1am Melt Restaurant 1749 9900 Shaikh Hamad Avenue, West Riffa & Juffair, a place to sit back and enjoy great burgers, freshly tossed salads, sumptuous sweets, and much more! 11am to 12am
Hot Wok 1717 8083 Bahrain City Centre, 10am to 12am Kontiki Restaurant 1753 1666 Diplomt Radisson Blu Mamy Soup 3919 5343 Exhibition Road, 11am to 11pm Monsoon 1774 9222 Adliya, Saturday to Thursday 12pm to 2.30pm/7pm to 11pm & Friday 7pm to 11pm Nu Asia 1758 7171 Seef, 12pm to 12am Pan Asia 1772 1600 Umm Al Hassam, 11am to 3.30pm/7pm to 11pm Peppers Fusion 1771 7808 Adliya, 11am to 3.30pm/6pm to 12am Pong’s 1753 0800 Exhibition Road Thai Chi 1717 9747 Bahrain City Centre, 12pm to 12am Thailand 1771 7040 Block 338, Adliya, 6.30pm to 11.30pm
A Lounge 1771 0041 Adliya, 11am to 2am Al Riwaq Café 1771 7441 Adliya, 10am to 9pm Aroma Restaurant & Café 1758 2711 Seef Mall, Open for lunch and dinner Café Ceramique Al A’ali Mall, 9am to 11pm Café Lilou 1771 4440 Adliya & 1 other location Saturday to Thursday 8am to 11pm/ Friday 10am to 11.30pm Café T 1775 0777 The Royal Golf Club Café Sayah 1722 4000 Delmon International Hotel, Open 24 Hours Candles Coffee 1771 4844 Adliya, Sunday to Thursday 9am to 1am/ Friday & Saturday 5pm to 1am Caramel 1770 7087 Cyprus Gardens, Budaiya, 8.30am to 12am Columbus Café 1717 2324 Bahrain City Centre, 8am to 12am Costa Coffee 1736 9109 Juffair & other locations Crepe Café 7711 5566 Budaiya & 1 other location Sunday to Wednesday 8am to 12am/ Thursday to Saturday 8am to 1am Deli France 1769 6031 Jawad Dome Sunday to Thursday 8am to 10pm/ Friday to Saturday 8am to 11pm Dome Café 1781 0180 Juffair, Open 24 Hours Friend’s Club 1771 3732 Adliya, Saturday to Wednesday 10am to 12am/ Thursday to Friday 10am to 1am La Maison du Café 1771 7524 Adliya, 8am to 2am
The Noodle House 1766 6353 Seef Mall
Le Chocolat 1711 1144 Seef District 7.30am to 12am
Brazilian
Levante Café 1603 0393 Amwaj, 12pm to 1.30am
Brazil 1782 6686 Adliya. Authentic Brazilian Rodizio. All you can eat + beverages BD16.2++, Friday Brunch BD21++
Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 1772 5550 Juffair
Cafés
Tony Luke’s 1749 4940 Riffa, 11am to 12am
Al Bindaira Café 1774 4066 Adliya, Monday to Thursday 10.30am to 12.30am and Friday 1pm to 1am
Tony Roma’s 1787 0070 Zayed Town, 12.30pm to 1am
Al Bareh Art Café 1771 3535 Adliya, 8.30am to 11pm
BUSHIDO
Maya Chocolat Seef Mall, Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 11pm/ Friday to Saturday 10am to 12am Med Café 1771 3088 Adliya and other locations, 11am to 1am
The Way of the Warrior For reservations, call Tel. +973 17583555 or email: bushido@bushido.com.bh
PAUL Bakery & Restaurant 1717 2321 Bahrain City Centre and 1 other location Skyw@lk Café Marriott Executive Apartments, Juffair 6.30am to 11.30pm Tilly’s 1769 1358 Jawad Dome, Barbar Tea Club Amwaj Islands 12pm to 12am Tea Garden 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 7am to 11pm Veranda 1771 5868 Adliya and 2 other locations, 9am to 1am Waterlemon 1758 1785 Al A’ali Shopping Complex 10am to 11pm
Chinese Beijing Chinese 1771 7969 Block 338, Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/6pm to 12am China Express 1771 7439 Adliya,12.30pm to 1am China Garden 1774 6423 Gulf Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Ching 1756 4424 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am First Chinese 1771 3603 Adliya, 12pm to 3.30pm/6pm to 12am Foli 1772 2199 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Hong Kong 1772 8700 Adliya Kowloon 1772 5015 Umm Al Hassam,1am to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 12am Magic Wok 1769 4105 Jawad Dome, Juffair, Open Daily 8am to 11pm PF Changs 1717 9757 Bahrain City Centre
Organic Foods & Café 1333 3285 Seef Mall, 9am to 10pm
Shanghai Hut 1729 2988 Exhibition Avenue 11.30am to 2am
Patisseri Valerie MODA Mall, 7.30am to 9pm
Soie 1753 3533 Sheraton Hotel
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
Bahrain Confidential June 2015 123
listings
BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE MAKI
Bright Candle 1722 9076 Manama, 11am to 3pm/6pm to 12am
Fantasy Restaurant 1729 2382 Hoora, 11am to 12am
Charminar 1726 1896 Manama, 11am to 3pm/6pm to 12am
Georgia Chinese 1781 3814 Juffair, 11am to 12am Grand Royal 1772 1787 Umm Al Hassam, 12.30pm to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 1130pm
A Culinary Haven! Located at the Bahrain World Trade Centre. For more information, call Tel. +973 1752 2733
Grill Room Buffet 1769 6660 Budaiya & 1 other location 12.30pm to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Havana 1731 1440 Hoora, 12pm to 1am
Chocolatiers Godiva 1758 0699 Seef Mall, 10am to 10pm
JJ’s Irish Pub and Restaurant 1774 2323 Adliya, 12pm to 230am
Patchi 1725 0501 Manama and 1 other location, 9.30am to 9pm
Marmaris 1755 3825 Al Daih, 11am to 12am
Rawasi Chocola & Flowers Mahooz, 9am to 1.30pm/4pm to 9pm
Paprikas 1729 7100 Hoora & 1 other location, 10am to 1am
Al Osra 1749 1492 East Riffa & 3 other locations, 11am to 12am Atayeb Restaurant 1759 0119 Budaiya, 12pm to 4pm/6pm to 11pm Block 338 1771 0338 Adliya, 11am to 2am Bangkok International 1774 0666 Adliya & 1 other location, 10am to 1am Blue Moon 1729 7100 Hoora, 10am to 1am Bu Ali 1724 2432 Zinj & 2 other locations, 10am to 12am Camelot 1771 7745 Adliya, Block 338 12pm to 12am Caesars 1771 6955 Adliya, 12.30pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.45pm Century International 1771 0100 Adliya & 1 other location 7am to 2am Charcoal Grill 1721 3410 Manama & 1 other location Clay Oven 1771 7008 Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/ 6.30pm to 11.30pm Citrus Restaurant & Café 1774 4950 Adliya, 12pm to 12am Deja Vu 1365 7770 Adliya, 4pm to 2am
124 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Clay Oven 1771 7008 Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Copper Chimney 1772 8699 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Curry Tree 1603 0662 The Lagoon & 2 other locations, 12pm to 12am Deccan Biryani Restaurant 1723 2445 Gudaibiya, Bldg 315, Rd 333
House Boat 1601 0321 Amwaj, 11am to 11.30pm
Fusion
Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite
Hyderabad House 1772 0031 Umm Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am It’s Mirchi 1772 7230 Ramee International Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/ 7pm to 12am
Paradise 1753 5306 Manama, 9am to 1am Salt & Pepper 1762 3535 Sanad, 10am to 12am Saraya 1763 6410 Sofitel Bahrain, 6.30am to 11pm Silk Restaurant 1774 9750 Adliya, 11am to 12pm Spice Nice 1771 3603 Adliya, 12pm to 3.30pm/6pm to 12am Sun & Sand 1731 1366 Exhibition Avenue, 11am to 2am Tandoor Hut 1771 3874 Adliya, 11am to 1130pm
Kalpaka 1729 7000 Windsor Tower Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 2am Khazana 1727 4767 Manama, 7am to 3.30pm/5pm to 12am
Nirvana 1758 9318 Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3.30pm/7pm to 11.30pm Papadom 1756 4434 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am Rajdhani 1771 5222 Gudaibiya, 7am to 2am Rasoi 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 6.30pm to 2am Saffron Curry 1722 3014 Enma Mall, 12pm to 12am Sahar 1772 5117 Umm Al Hassam, 8am to 12am Sangeetha 1727 2768 Gudaibiya, 7.30am to 3pm/5.30pm to 11pm Shamiana 1717 8085 Bahrain City Centre, 10am to 12am Spices 1753 1122 Crowne Plaza, Diplomatic Area, 12pm to 11pm Taka Tak 1725 4848 Gudaibiya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm
Lanterns 1759 0591 Budaiya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Now also open in Adliya
The Yellow Chilli 1758 0480 Seef Mall, 12pm to 10.30pm
Mantra 1721 1133 Best Western Plus Olive Hotel, 12pm to 2am
Vrindavan 1723 4454 Manama, 7am to 3.30pm/4.30pm to 11pm
Moti Mahal 1782 5333 Juffair, 12pm to 12am
International
Mumbai Spice Bahrain Mall, 10am to 10pm Nattinpuram 1729 0600 Ramee Baisan Hotel, 12pm to 12 am
Al Waha Restaurant 1774 6425 Gulf Hotel, Adliya, Open 24 Hours Al Wasmeyah Restaurant 1753 5000 Golden Tulip Hotel, Diplomatic Area Open 24 Hours
Dome Café
Tapas Bar 1763 6412 Sofitel Bahrain, 11.30am to 3.30pm/7pm to 12am The Food Station 1725 4007 Marina Mall & 2 other locations, 10am to 10pm Trader Vic’s 1758 6555 Ritz-Carlton Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3.30pm/7.30pm to 11.30am
Indian Aachi’s Chettinand Kitchen 1723 3110 Gudaibiya, 10.30am to 3.30pm/ 5.30pm to 1130pm Akbar 1729 6660 Ramada Palace Hotel 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12.30am
Choose from a range of mouthwatering soups, salads, sandwiches, main course and desserts.
Asha’s 1717 9751 Bahrain City Centre
Dôme Juffair: +973 1781 0180 Dôme Seef: +973 1758 1824 Dôme Riffa: +973 1700 2221
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
listings
BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE
Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite Bambino 1753 3336 Sheza Tower Hotel, 24 Hours Café Marisol 1770 1201 Al Bander Hotel & Resort, 7am to 11.30pm Cyprus Taverna 1771 6316 Adliya, 11am to 2pm/4pm to 2am DownTown Lounge 1720 8308 InterContinental Regency Hotel, 5pm to 2am East West Cuisine 1721 0012 Bahrain Financial Harbour, 8am to 5pm Figs & Olives 1600 0000 The Domain Bahrain, 10am to 12am Fusions 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel Ginger Lounge 1737 0037 Majestic Arjaan by Rotana, 6.30am to 11.30pm Healthy Calorie 1736 9399 Juffair, 8am to 12pm Jim’s Restaurant 1771 0654 Adliya, 11am to 3pm/6pm to 12am La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts 1771 3000 Ras Ruman, 9am to 10.30pm La Med 1758 0000 The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Le Bistro 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel Lemon Tree 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 6.30am to 11.30am Links Restaurant 1775 0777 The Royal Golf Club Little Chef 1759 5950 Budiaya, 12pm to 12am Mei N Yu 1601 0160 The Lagoon, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 12am Muju Restaurant & Lounge 1603 9800 Open 24 Hours Nando’s 1782 5100 Juffair, 11am to 2am Prego 1775 1263 The Royal Golf Club, 11.30am to 12am Primavera 1758 0000 Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Rendezvous 1758 7708 Seef Mall, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Rimal 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa, 6.30am to 11pm Salad Boutique 3666 4427 Adliya, 8am to 12am
Selections 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel 6.30am to 11.30pm Silk’s 1746 0000 Mövenpick Hotel Tamarind 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa Wednesday to Saturday 12pm to 3pm/ 6pm to 11.30pm & Sunday to Tuesday 12pm to 3pm The Gallery 1746 0000 Mövenpick Hotel Upstairs Downstairs 1771 3093 Adliya, 7am to 11am/12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Vins Bistro 1771 7101 Adliya, 10am to 2am Yamin Jana Mediterranean Sea Front Lounge 1603 3800 Dragon Hotel & Resort, Amwaj Open 2pm onwards Zodiac Restaurant 1781 3366 Al Manzil Suites, Juffair, Open 24 hours All day dining offering a wide selection and panoramic views of Juffair from the 15th floor. Zoe 1771 6400 Adliya, Block 338, Saturday to Tuesday, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am & Wednesday to Friday 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 2am Zytoun 1729 8008 Novotel Al Dana Resort 6.30am to 12am
Italian
La Pergola 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel
Margherita Pizza & Pasta 1772 3133 Umm Al Hassam, 12.30pm to 3.30pm/ 5.30pm to 12.30am MASSO 1772 1061 The Palace Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11.30pm Medzo 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel Open for lunch and dinner Metro Pizza 1779 4000 Sa’ar, 12pm to 12am Mia Mia 1756 4414 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am Mino’s 1774 4777 Adliya, 11am to 12.30am Mondo Restaurant 1753 1666 Diplomat Radisson Blu Ninos 1756 6555 Al A’ali Complex, Seef Papa John’s 1750 6070 Juffair and 18 locations Pasta Art 1700 1750 Zamil Tower, 8am to 6pm Pastarito 1717 9300 Bahrain City Centre & Durrat Al- Bahrain 11am to 12am
BICE 1755 3666 MODA Mall, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11.30pm
Pick a Pizza 1772 0929 Umm Al Hassam & 1 other location 12pm to 1am
Café Spasso 1782 2274 New Zinj, Open 830am onwards
Pizza Empress 1774 2299/1771 7422 Adliya, 12pm to 12am/Fridays 3pm- 12am
Café Italia 1774 4774 Adliya and 1 other location 12pm to 3.30pm/7pm to 11.30pm
Pizza Express 1601 0524 The Lagoon Amwaj, 11am to 12am
Carino’s Italian Grill 1758 7878 Seef Tower, 11am to 12am Coco’s Café 1771 3710 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Cucina Italiana 1700 1317 Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, 6am to 2am Fiamma 1763 6363 Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa 12.30pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Gusto Pizzeria 1769 5556 Budaiya,12pm to 11pm Italiano 1758 1919 Al A’ali Complex, 11.45am to 11pm JustaPasta 1716 2896 Bahrain Mall
MEISEI
Little Caesars 1717 9400 Bahrain City Centre & 4 other locations 11am to 12am
Pizza Hut 1771 1113 Manama & 10 other locations, 11am to 1am Pizza Inn 1781 1666 Juffair & 1 other location, 10am to 12am Pizza Bella 1782 7133 Juffair & 1 other location, 11.30am to 11.30pm Pizza Company 1781 1830 Juffair & 1 other location, Open 24 Hours Pomodorino 1700 0121 Adliya, 12pm to 1am Prego 1775 1263 The Royal Golf Club, 11.30am to 12am Primavera 1758 0000 Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Rialto 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 12pm to 11.30pm
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
A Story of Honour, Elegance and Integrity For reservations, call Tel. +973 1700 7770
Rolandos 7732 2222 Juffair 12pm to 12am Roma 1772 5885 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 2.30pm/7pm to 11.30pm Romano’s Macaroni Grill 1772 3818 Juffair & Bahrain International Airport Vapiano 1749 1391 Bahrain City Centre, 10am to 10pm Wood Pizza Pasta 1746 3003 Hidd Mall
Japanese Bushido 1758 3555 Seef, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 2am EDO 1729 0945 Exhibition Avenue, 11,30am to 12am Fuji Sushi Bar 1753 3336 Sheza Tower Hotel,12.30pm to 12am Frangipani 1758 2422 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am HakiSushi 1772 5638 American Alley, Juffair, 11am to 11pm Imari 1600 0000 The Domain Bahrain, 6pm to 12am Kei 1753 5000 Golden Tulip Hotel, 12.30pm to 3pm/ 7.30pm to 11pm Maki 1752 2733 MODA Mall, 12pm to 12am Meisei 1700 7770 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Mirai 1771 3113 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Ruka 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 12.30pm to 2am Sato 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel
Bahrain Confidential June 2015 125
listings
BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE MAI-TAI
Chakmagia 1755 8500 Dana Mall, 10am to 10pm
Tarwe’a 1724 0046 Manama, Open 24 Hours Taza 1778 4997 Tubli, 12.30pm to 12.30am
Dalaona Restaurant 1733 0930 Muharraq, 9am to 12am
Takht-e Jamsheed 1774 6431 Gulf Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm
Fakhruddin 1769 5949 Sa’ar, 11am to 11pm
Aloha Life! Located at Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa For more information, call Tel. +973 1758 6555
Sumo Sushi & Bento 1771 8090 American Alley, Juffair, 12pm to 12am Sushi 101 1782 2274 New Zinj Saturday to Thursday, 12pm to 3pm/6pm onwards & Friday 1pm to 4pm/7pm onwards Yo Sushi 1758 3373 Al A’ali Complex, Seef Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 12am/ Thursday to Friday 12pm to 2am
Middle Eastern
Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite
Golestan 1753 3533 Sheraton Hotel Sunday to Friday 12.30pm to 2.30pm/7.30pm to 11.30pm Isfahani 1755 0567 Hoora and other locations, 12pm to 12am
Wafi Gormet 1779 999 Bahrain City Centre, 9am to 12.30pm Yalla Yalla 1782 7999 Al Safir Hotel, 6.30pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Yamin Jana 1600 3380 The Dragon Hotel & Resort, 7am to 2am
Kenza 1736 0000 The K Hotel, 7pm to 2am
Yas-e Isfahani 1758 1151 Seef Mall, 10am to 10pm
Kosebasi 1717 2322 Bahrain City Centre
Zahlawiya 1771 0051 Adliya, 7am to 2pm/4pm to 4am
Laialy Zaman 1729 3097 Fateh Corniche, 11am to 4am
Zahle 1774 6417 Gulf Hotel Monday to Tuesday 7pm to 1am/ Wednesday to Friday 7pm to 2am
Leewan Al Khor 1601 0666 Amwaj, 1pm to 11pm
Zayt Zaytoon 1731 2222 Manama & 2 other locations, 7am to 12am
Al Abraaj 1759 5656 Budaiya and many other locations, 12pm to 12am
Leila 1756 6556 Seef, 9am to 12am
Al Arisha 1772 5414 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am
Marmaris 1755 5909 Sanabis, 11am to 12am
Al-Bokhari 1731 1186 Hoora & 2 other locations, 12pm to 2am
Marash 1732 2277 Oasis Center, Muharraq
Al Fanar 1753 1666 Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Open Monday to Saturday 9.30pm to 2am
Melh Al Zad 1731 1170 Hoora, 12.30pm to 1am
Al Hamra 1722 4000 Delmon International Hotel, Open 24 Hours
Momo 1718 0659 Adliya, 8am to 2am
Al Mukhayam Ramada Palace Hotel 8pm to 1am
Pashawat 1763 6413 Sofitel Bahrain, 7pm to 12am
Asia Sea Food 1722 4466 Mashtan Hotel, 6am to 11pm
Al Shama 1729 7000 Windsor Tower Hotel, 9pm to 2am
Persian 1781 1511 Adliya, 12.30pm to 3.30pm/7.30pm to 12am
Far East Sea Food Market 1772 7230 Ramez International Hotel, Juffair Daily, 12.30pm to 11.30pm
Persian Room 1601 0166 Amwaj Islands Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 12am/ Thursday to Friday 12pm to 1am
Fish Market 1770 1201 Al Bander Hotel and Resort, 12.30pm to 11.30pm
Al Yacout 1729 8008 Novotel Al Dana Resort, 8pm to 2am Abd El Wahab 1713 1111 MODA Mall, 12pm to 12am
Zeitouna 1736 5055 Juffair & 4 other locations, 8am to 12am
Mexican Casa Mexicana 1771 5521 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6pm to 12am Margarita Mexicana 1774 6462 Gulf Hotel, Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Senor Paco’s 1772 5873 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 12am
Sea Food
Badawi 1729 7799 Manama, 10am to 11pm
Qasr Al Sultan Grill 1774 4144 Bahrain City Centre & 1 other location 11am to 12am
Baharat 1717 1000 Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre A la carte dinner daily from 7 pm – 11 pm
Rayes 1731 2700 Fateh Corniche, 12pm to 1230am
Café Blanc 1710 0069 Al A’ali Complex, 8am to 12am
Shawarma Express 1772 9922 Juffair & 5 other locations, 7am to 3am
Carla’s 1769 7687 Cyprus Gardens, Sehla, 12pm to 12am
Shoo Fee Ma Fee 1731 1280 Adliya, 10am to 12am
126 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
La Mer 1763 6411 Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa 7pm to 11pm La Perle 1729 8008 Novotel Al Dana Resort, 7pm to 12am Sea Chef 1729 2911 Hoora, 12pm to 1am
Steak Houses Brazil 1782 6686 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6pm to 11pm Butcher’s Shop & Grill 1717 2323 Bahrain City Centre, 12pm to 11pm Klouds 1736 0000 The K Hotel, 6.30am to 2am Legendz Steakhouse 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel Open for lunch and dinner Le Sauvage Meat + Fire 1600 0000 The Domain Bahrain 6.30am to 3pm/6pm to 12am L’lle 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa, 6pm to 11pm Mezzaluna 1774 2999 Adliya Sunday to Wednesday 7pm to 11pm/ Thursday to Saturday 7pm to 11.30pm Plums 1758 0000 Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa 7pm to 11.30pm Ponderosa Steakhouse 1758 0552 Seef, 11am to 1am Sizzlers Restaurant 1771 6999 Mansoori Mansions Hotel, Open 24 Hours The Meat Co 1774 2080 Block 338 Saturday to Wednesday 12.30pm to 3.30pm/ 7pm to 11.30pm and Thursday to Friday 12.30pm to 12am
Thai Banana Leaf 1774 4171 Adliya, 11am to 11pm Hash House 1771 5094 Adliya, 12pm to 4pm/6pm to 12am Muay Thai Quick Meal Restaurant 7704 0454 Juffair, 12pm to 12am Orchid Thai 1729 6660 Ramada Palace Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 1am Royal Thai Sea Food Restaurant 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel Shada 1772 1155 Zinj, 11.30am to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 12am Thai Express 1769 3595 Jawad Dome-Barbar, Juffair, 10am to 11.30pm
Sheza Seafood Market 1753 3336 Sheza Tower Hotel, Diplomatic Area 12.30pm to 12am Waves 1753 1122 Crowne Plaza Hotel, 12pm to 4pm/7pm to 12am
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
listings
SPORTS, FITNESS AND KIDS Fitness/Aerobics/Spinning Al Safir Fitness First The Regency The Diplomat Radisson Blu Curves (Budaiya) Ez Fit Sports Complex Image Spa & Leisure (Sheraton Hotel) The Health Club (Gulf Hotel) Nautilus (Crown Plaza) Sports Club & Spa, Ritz-Carlton Al Gosaibi Gym Ghassan’s Gym (mat and private classes available) La Fontaine Centre World Beat Fitness Centre
1723 0123 1761 2576
Badminton Bapco Club Telgu Kala Samithi The Indian Club
1775 3666 1727 6300 1725 3157
Basketball EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Basketball Association
1769 2378 1774 1010
1770 1201 1775 3666 1782 2077 1775 3666 1729 2313
Cricket EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Rugby Football Club SLC Grounds, Riffa Thursdays, Training 3pm to 5pm
1769 2378 1769 5809 1727 6134
1765 0079
Dance Bahrain Ballet Centre Indian Institute for Performing Arts Latin Dance Bahrain Sampaguita Club Sayaw Unlimited Dance Club Victoria Dance Centre World Beat Fitness Centre Profiles Fitness Centre Pineapple
1769 3232 1723 1717 3967 6349 3910 6589 3982 7096 3987 6215 1761 2576 1772 7766 1771 2000
Football Al Ahli Sports Club Al Hala Sports Club Bahrain Rugby Football Club British Club Dilmun Club EZ Fit Sports Complex Arsenal Soccer School
1727 7712 1734 2182 1769 5809 1772 8245 1769 2986 1769 2378 1756 1615
Golf Awali Club Royal Golf Club
1775 6770 1775 0777
Go Karting/Racing Rally Town BIC Silver go-Karts (Tubli) Gulf Speed One (Seef)
1753 1165 1745 0000 1778 0011 3944 4137
Ice Skating Funland Centre
Paint In Space 1762 6232 Chaoss 1759 2096 Dar Albareh 1771 3535/3906 9016 Celebrations 1759 5791 Bahrain Art Society 1759 0551 Indian Institute for Performing Arts 1723 1717 The Studio 3975 4863 Studio Ceramics 1759 9026 Things to Do 1759 0409
Drama Film-making workshops
My Gym, www.my-gym.com EZ Fit World Beat Fitness Centre Chaoss
Awali Library (BAPCO, Awali) British Club (Times vary) Iqra’s Children’s Library Muharraq)
Bahrain Snooker Association Jimmy’s Snooker and Billiards Club
1782 5301 1771 6147
Snooker
1729 2313
Martial Arts Japan Karate Association 3944 9628/3667 2204 Profiles Fitness Centre (Boxing for ladies) 1772 7766 Zen-Do 1761 1909 Bahrain Karate Centre 3947 7709 Goju Karate Club 3965 9510 World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 Bahrain Karate-do Academy 3665 7059
Bahrain Badminton and Squash Federation The Country Club Al Bander Resort Nautilus (Crowne Plaza) The Diplomat Radisson Blu
Chakazoolu Indoor Theme Park www.danamall.net Chaoss Funland Centre (bowling, ice skating, pool) www.funlandcentre.com Mad Science Magic Island, www.seefmall.net My Gym, Softplay at Dilmun Club Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark www.lpodwaterpark.com
1759 3593 1770 1201 1753 0764 1753 1666
Horse Riding 1775 6525
1769 0448 1769 2986 1759 1103 1759 3593
Swimming Lessons British Club Dilmun Club Ritz Carlton Sports Club The Diplomat Radisson Blu
1772 8245 1769 2986 1758 0001 1753 1666
Watersports Bahrain Sailing School Coral Beach Club The Marina Club The Sailing Club The Yacht Club Aquatique - Organised pearl diving Al Bander Resort Bahrain Swimming Association Dilmun Club
1731 0252 1721 2700 1729 1527 1783 6078 1770 0677 1727 1780 1770 1201 1768 0867 1769 0926
Tennis Bahrain Tennis Club The British Club The Country Club Dilmun Club Gulf Hotel Marina Club The Diplomat Radisson Blu Bahrain Tennis Club Filipino Club Tennis Group
1772 9561 1722 8245 1759 3593 1769 2986 1771 3000 1729 1527 1753 1666 1772 9561/1772 9756 3952 7587
Adhari Park
1783 6116 1740 7300
North of the Shaikh Isa Bin Sulman Highway Fun for all ages, includes a sports camp, groovy town, discovery village and indoor entertainment Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports
Chaoss 1759 2096 Swimming, gymnastics, dance and Taekwon-Do for children and teenagers. 1729 3109
Corniche next to Marina Club One hour marine mammal show.
Funland
1729 2313
Corniche next to Marina Club Bowling and Ice Skating everyday.
Hawar Island
1731 1770
Day trips to Hawar Island, boats depart from Ad Dur Jetty at 10am daily
Kid’s Kingdom 1772 1999 1761 3144/3925 6904 1761 1785 3535 6358
Play Centres
1729 2662
Awali Riding Club Saturdays to Thursdays, 7am to 7pm. Fridays 7am to 6pm. Desert rides. Qualified instructors Bahrain Riding School Daily rides 4pm to 6pm Dilmun Club Sundays to Thursdays. 8am to 11am and 3pm to 7.30pm Shakhoora Riding School Sundays to Thursdays, 8am to 12noon, 3.30pm to 7pm The Country Club Fridays Horse riding in paddock, 1pm to 4pm Twin Palms Riding Centre 1759 1668
1775 3666 1772 8245 1732 0955
Music Lessons Bahrain Music Institute Kindermusik Bahrain Room to Rock Jelena Piergiovanni
Al Areen Wildlife Park
Dolphin Park 1756 6566 1769 2378 1761 2576 1759 2096
Libraries
Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 (Thurs) 4.45pm for girls; (Sun) 7.30pm for women Riffa Views Netball League 3630 6946
1769 5809
3600 1777
Kids Gyms/Gymnastics
Netball
Bahrain Rugby Football Club
Where To Go
Art Classes
Squash
Cycling Bahrain Cycling Association
Art of Living 3988 8760 Dessange 1771 3999 (Yoga classes offered several times a week) Bahrain Meditation Centre Bahrain 1779 5961 (Wellness Resort) Saturdays and Wednesdays. 7pm to 8.30pm, Mixed yoga classes. Sundays and Tuesdays (Ladies Only), 10am to12pm Bayoga Centre 1772 5027 Daily yoga classes, relaxing yoga and meditation for beginners and advanced students. Herbal Massage Center, Riffa 1749 1958 3977 6882 World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 Reiki Master And Teacher Melanie 3933 0911 offers Reiki sessions and courses or www.reikibahrain.com Anubhaa Sharma anurays@yahoo.co.in
Rugby
Bowling Al Bander Hotel & Resort Awali Bowling Centre Bahrain Bowling Association Bapco Club Funland Centre
Creative Kids
Meditation/Yoga 1781 3815 1332 2200 1722 7777 1753 1666 1769 1496 1769 2378 1752 4570 1771 3000 1753 0764 1758 9380 1729 3221 1769 5911
1755 8500 1759 2096 1729 2313
1759 1136 1758 2898 1756 6566 1769 0926 1784 5100
Play Groups Chaoss, Off Budaiya Highway 1759 2096 Kindermusik 3925 6904/1761 3144 Ajyaal Montessori Pre-School Mini Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (4 to 7 year olds) Musical Babies, Nadeen School 1772 8886 My Gym, Seef District 1756 6566 Rhymes & Chimes, Dilmun Club 3929 6848 Soft Play, Off Budaiya Highway 3965 3678 Sticky Fingers 3961 8340 Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (7 to 11 year olds) Tots & Toddlers Group, 1772 8245 The British Club Wriggly Readers, British School 3912 9585 (for pre-schoolers) www.mumsinbahrain.net
Corniche, next to the Hawar reservation office A small outdoor playground. Good fun for young children. Open until late.
Magic Island Seef Mall Over 120 different games and attractions and Bahrain’s only indoor Roller Blade Arena.
Playland
1774 2266/1762 0999 Above Fuddruckers in Adliya An indoor centre full of games. Each ride costs 100 fils. Tokens available.
Soft Play
3965 3678
Future Shape Dance Studio, Garden City Every Monday and Wednesday from 9.30am to 11.30am Children under the age of six months attend for free. www.softplaybahrain.com
Studio Ceramics
1759 9026
Budaiya Highway Pottery painting and more. Open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday, or by appointment. Birthday parties and private group bookings possible.
Water Garden Salmaniya
1726 2034 Near Dairy Queen roundabout A semi-filled lake with paddleboats and birds. School & Nurseries
Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain
1717 3000
Bahrain City Centre Opening Hours: Saturday to Tuesday: 11am to 8pm Wednesday: 11am to 10pm (Ladies Night 5pm to 10pm) Thursday and Friday: 11am to 9 PM
Things to know The Tourist Department (Tel. 1721 1717) is located in the gate to Manama’s souq, Bab al-Bahrain, on the ground floor next to the tourist shop, Times: 8am to 12 and 4.30pm to 6pm, closed on Friday.
Currency
exchange rate of BD1=SR10 (less in hotels) and you may be given Saudi money as change.
Business Hours Friday is the Islamic equivalent of the Christian Sunday. The weekend falls on a Friday and a Saturday. Most shopping malls and commercial centres are generally open seven days a week.
The Bahrain Dinar (BD) is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of USD1=BD0.377 - in other words a dinar is worth about USD2.65. It is a convertible currency with no restrictions on its import or export. Tip: the Saudi Riyal (SR) is also accepted in shops for purchases at an
Bahrain Confidential June 2015 127
listings Schools American Curriculum
CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS
Other Private Schools
Al Hekma International Tel. 1762 0820/1762 3999 Modern Knowledge Schools Tel. 1772 7712 Riffa Views International School Tel. 1656 5000 The Bahrain School Tel. 1762 0820
Al Noor International School Tel. 1773 6773 Ecole Francaise de Bahrain Tel. 1732 3770 Ibn Khuldoon National School Tel. 1778 0661 Shaikha Hessa Girls’ School Tel. 1775 6111
British Curriculum
Special Needs
Al Mahd Day Boarding Tel. 1779 2422 British School Tel. 1761 0920 Budaiya Preschool Tel. 1779 1491 Dilmun School (elementary) Tel. 1771 3483 KG Kids Tel. 1766 3556 St Christopher’s School Tel. 1778 8108 Sacred Heart School Tel. 1768 4367 Talent International and The Infant School Tel. 1725 2346/1777 0078
Disabled Sports Federation Tel. 1778 9191 Hope Institute Tel. 1768 0815/1768 0500 R.I.A. Institute Tel. 1771 6871 The Children’s Academy Tel. 1761 3234 UCO Parents Care Centre Tel. 1767 7717
Taxis
Art Societies
Things to know
Confidential Tip: BD1 per five minutes in the cab is the most you should pay for an un-metered journey. If traveling from the airport or busy taxi rank, add BD2/after midnight add BD1 to the total e.g. a 10 minute drive from the airport after midnight should cost you no more than BD5 (BD2 + BD2 + BD1= BD5). Taxis do use meters and companies may use similar rates.
Al Dana Nursery Tel. 1725 3541 Dana Pre-school, Riffa Tel. 1777 0180 Lilliput, Budaiya Tel. 1769 4947
Avoiding Offence
Generally speaking, very short skirts and tight midriff tops are frowned upon in public, although acceptable by hotel pools, in private clubs and on the beach. If visiting a mosque, cover the body well (women should ensure that arms and legs and hair are fully covered). Shoes should always be left outside the entrance.
ESSENTIAL INFO 24-Hour Pharmacies Jaffer Pharmacy Tel. 1729 1039 18, Tarfah bin Al Abid Avenue, Manama 319 Nasser Pharmacy Tel. 1774 0900 63-B, Qadisiya Avenue, Manama 332 Awal Pharmacy Tel. 1777 2023 30 Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Avenue, East Riffa 901 Muwasaa Pharmacy Tel. 1733 5666 Shaikh Mohd bin Salman Avenue, Road 205, Muharraq.
Courier & Express Delivery
Tel. 1733 0434
DHL
Tel. 1736 4100
TNT
Tel. 1734 9199
Car Hire An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive in Bahrain except for visitors from Gulf Co-operation Council states, U.S.A., Canada, countries in the European Union, Australia and New Zealand. The offices of carhire companies are easily encountered at the airport. Recommended principal rental firms include: Budget Rent A Car National Car Rental Avenue Car Rental and Leasing Avis Rent A Car
Tel. 1753 4100 Tel. 1723 1156 Tel. 1771 3181 Tel. 1756 9191
Embassies & Consulates Embassies generally open from 8am to 1pm from Saturday to Wednesday and some Arab embassies also open on Thursday. Many embassies have a number of staff on call outside these hours for emergencies. Algeria 1771 3669 Bangladesh 1771 4717 China 1772 3800 Denmark 1772 5119 Egypt 1772 0005 France 1729 8660 Germany 1753 0210 India 1771 2785 Iran 1772 2400 Iraq 1774 1472 Italy 1725 2424 Japan 1771 6565 Jordan 1729 1109 Kuwait 1753 4040 Lebanon 1778 6994
128 Bahrain Confidential June 2015
Malaysia Morocco Netherlands Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Portugal Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Switzerland Syria Trade Mission of Taiwan Thailand Tunisia Turkey UAE UK UN Info Centre USA
1756 4551 1774 0566 1759 1568 1729 3663 1724 4113 1727 6099 1725 0990 1753 6709 1772 2922 1772 5222 1753 7722 1753 1166 1772 2484 1729 2578 1727 4142 1771 4149 1753 3448 1771 0333 1757 4100 1731 1676 1724 2700
Flight Information Airline offices are normally open from 8am to 12.30pm and from 3pm to around 5pm, Saturday till Wednesday. Flight Info 1733 9339 British Airways 1758 7777 Turkish Airlines 1751 6100/1731 2233 Air India 1729 6444 Cathay Pacific 1722 6226 Emirates 1758 8700 Gulf Air 1733 5777 Jet Airways 1722 7114 KLM 1722 9747 Kuwait Airways 1722 3300 Lufthansa 1782 8762 Qatar Airways 1721 2202 Saudi Airlines 1721 1550
Hospitals & Clinics Emergency American Mission Hospital (AMH) Saar Medical & Dental Clinic (AMH) Bahrain Specialist Hospital Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital Salmaniya Hospital Gulf Dental Speciality Hospital
1771 7441 1723 0123 1772 8046
Charitable Organisations Alia for Early Intervention 1773 0960 Bahrain Cancer Society 3960 3489/1723 3080 Bahrain Charity Society 1729 3363 Bahrain Disabled Sports Committee 1778 9191 Bahrain Human Rights Society 1753 1822 Bahrain Red Crescent Society 1729 3171 Friendship Society for the Blind 1762 4496 Hope Institute for the Handicapped 1768 0815 Islamic Enlightenment Society 1772 0053 Lions Club of Bahrain 3908 0097 Manama Rotary Club 3939 4522 Migrant Workers Protection Society 3946 5378 Overseas Workers Welfare Admin. 1721 3825 Palm Association 1779 0826/3964 3211 Riffa Cultural and Charity Society 1777 5444 Think Pink 3907 6717 BSPCA 1759 1231/1759 3479
Gallery/Crafts Al Riwaq Art Space 1771 7441 Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre 1761 1900 Art Lounge 1758 0522 Traditional crafts including palm weaving, pottery and woodwork. Bahrain Arts Society 1759 0551 Thursdays drawing and painting for Children, 18 hours @ BD25, 10am to 12pm Saturdays and Mondays drawing and Painting for adults, 18 hours @ BD30, 3pm to 7pm. Bahrain Pottery Society 1778 6898 Clay pottery, ceramic and painting lessons - Saturdays and Mondays, 5pm. Crafts Centre Gallery and Workshop 1756 8032 Arabic calligraphy Caravan Galleries 3996 5853 Kerala Arts and Cultural Association 3963 9319 The Studio 3975 4863 Pottery painting and more for adults and children, open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday or by appointment. Birthday parties and private group bookings possible. Shaikh Ibrahim Cultural 3940 2302/1732 2549 and Research Centre Studio Ceramics 1759 9026
“Help” 24-Hour Helpline for Distressed Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous
3987 3357 1753 0020 1753 3558
151 181 191 100 140
Bahrain Bridge Club Bahrain Bridge Committee
3960 7219 3968 7190
Darts Balouch Club Sri Lanka Club
1729 2231 1729 7878
Chess Bahrain Chess Federation
1725 2133
Photography Awali Photo Society Bahrain Arts Society
1724 2641 1727 1157
Speech & Drama
Bahrain Cinema Club Dilmun Amateur Dramatics Society Folk Poetry Society Manama Theatre Club Manama Toastmasters Club
1772 5959 1769 0926 1776 1000 1777 6489 3965 5676
Ladies Clubs American Association of Bahrain 1756 4170 American Women’s Association 1775 6075 Australian Association of Bahrain 3910 1348 Awali Ladies Association 1767 8947 Bahrain Business Women’s Society 1772 1188 Bahrain Garden Club 1772 7625 Bahrain Women Society 1782 6777 Bahrain Young Ladies Society 1727 3508 BYLS-Toastmasters Club 1762 6237 Get together for Ladies 3917 4247/3902 7892 Indian Ladies Association 3980 5372 International Ladies Group 1772 9128 Madinat Hamad Women Society 3964 3396 Contact person Amal 3987 8758 Pakistani Women’s Association 1771 0944 Second Sunday Newcomers 3927 0413/3641 1368
Language Schools Al Quran Translation 1764 5156 Bait Al Taleem 1764 3199 Berlitz 1782 7847 British Council 1726 1555 Carousel 3967 3635 Lingua English Saturdays. Mondays and Wednesdays. English Language Classes, 4.30pm to 6pm, 4pm to 5.30pm. English Language Centre 1770 0040 Lingo - Ease Language Centre Budaiya Highway 1759 0895
Social Clubs Alliance Française 1768 3295 Assamese Community 3909 1959 Awali Caledonian Society 3636 6458 Bahrain Caledonian Society 3944 0658 Bahrain Hash House Harriers 1786 2620 Bahrain Irish Society info@bahrainirishsociety.com Bahrain Kannada Sangha 1727 1257 Bahrain Round Table 3960 8568 Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 Bahrain Welsh Society 1772 7127 Balouch Club 1729 2231 British Club 1772 8245 ext. 32 Bhatia Mitra Mandal 3960 1789 Country Club 1759 3593 Dilmun Club 1769 0926 Filipino Club 1726 2143 Indian Club 1725 3157 Karnataka Social Club 1725 4257 Pakistan Club 1725 8520 Pakistan Association 3941 5200 Royal Society of St. George 3972 6329 Saar Cultural & Sports Club 1779 0335 Shree Nayrana Cultural Society 1725 5517 Shri Gujarati Samaj 3962 4285 Sri Lanka Club 1727 6134 Wisdom Home Society 1772 7575
Wellbeing
Bridge 999 1725 3447 1779 0025 1781 2000 1782 8282 1728 8888 1774 1444
Telephone Helpline Intl. calls via operator Directory enquiries Directory enquiries - Intl. Other phone enquiries Speaking clock
Scrabble Bahrain Scrabble League Bahrain Kannada Sangha Saturdays. 6.30pm.
Elham La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art The Bahrain Contemporary Art Society
Taxis are easily available in the capital, Manama, and have meters but be sure to make the driver use the meter. 99% of drivers won’t switch on the meter and will try to charge you double the legal fare. Beware!
Nurseries and Creches
Animal Welfare Al Ahli Animal Centre 1762 2102/3965 4343 BSPCA 1759 1231 Delmon Kennels & Training 3971 7609 Jassim Veterinary Centre (Sugaya) 1723 1242 Modern Animal Health Centre (Budaiya) 1759 0908 Nonie Coutts Surgery, (Manama and Saar) 1724 5515 Pet Arabia 1759 2288 Saar Kennels 1779 2064
1776 4468 3966 7751
Kelly Armatage Inc. Offering counselling, life coaching and cognitive behavioural therapy sessions Mob: 3993 1399 Email: info@kellyarmatage.com www.kellyarmatage.com Bahrain Meditation Centre Tel: 1771 2545 Email: meditate@batelco.com.bh www.bahrainmeditationcentre.com
GEORGE CLOONEY’S CHOICE
OMEGA Boutiques: Moda Mall (Sheraton Complex) Tel: 17537753 Bahrain City Centre Tel: 17100135