FACT Bahrain August 2019

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LUXUMPTUOUS / lux-ump-shu-us / noun

The luxurious setting and scrumptious variety of cuisine available at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Some things are better understood once experienced.

A truly unique indulgence every Friday at Bahrain Bay Kitchen where the aroma of flavour rich dishes blend perfectly with the melodical sounds of live entertainment at our themed brunches. Add complementary access to Kids For All Seasons and you’ll need a whole new word to describe your weekend.

Experience it yourself Reservations: (973) 1711 5500 fourseasons.com/bahrain

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CONTENTS

08 21 39 FACT FINDS

SUMMER DAYS

STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

45 50 75 HOTEL HOTSPOT

GLOBETROTTER MALDIVES

FASHION FOCUS

85 89 93 CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

DINING FOCUS

FOODIE CORNER

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• THE EDITOR

Summer State of Mind

“

Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it." - Russell Baker

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n iced coffee on a hot day can really work miracles - and if that's not your go-to choice elixir to cool down - surely, by now, you know the struggles of keeping hydrated in this scorchin' heat? #FirstWorldProblems There's nothing quite like August in Bahrain; the month where you want to be by the pool for that strong tan game, but equally just want to stay indoors to avoid the sunburn. What a dilemma to have? Or is it...

This month, we've picked all of our favourite weekend brunch spots, wellness retreats and some very special staycation choices - where you can exercise your right to be in - or out - of the sun as you please. Turn to p21 for Beat The Heat and let our listings do the talking. Just get your calendar at the ready and share away in your favourite WhatsApp group chat (let's not pretend, we all have one).

Travel is a big part of the lifestyle we share here at FACT, and this month's very special visit to Vakkaru Maldives takes the trophy for most stunning resorts. Read all about the island paradise from p50 onwards. Speaking of paradise (and islands, for that matter), we have a few gorgeous hotspots of our own to brag about. The Merchant House Bahrain is all about the boutique charm and local connections (p39) whilst the ever-so picturesque Ritz-Carlton Bahrain steals the show once more with its pristine beach, lush gardens and fabulous dining (p45).

And if you REALLY do want to get away but not too far from home, we’ve got just the place for you. Starting p56, read all about what makes Khareef season a special time to visit Oman’s Southern Dhofar region. A miracle of nature, just over an hour’s flight away, you’ll find lush greenery and cooler climes with waterfalls and fresh air to marvel. Stay at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara and really up your holiday with luxury surroundings and facilities. Best of all? Gulf Air is operating direct flights to and from Salalah until mid-September. Amazing!

As always, one thing the heat doesn't change is that we've all got to eat. Our food features this month bring an eclectic mix of dining options: try exquisite exotic fare at Royal Thai, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain (p85); or book your next Friday Brunch at the lavish ART Rotana Amwaj Island (p89); and head to Elite Seef Residence's Tarab Night for authentic grub and entertainment (p93).

Whether you like it or not, summer has its many perks - one of them being that guaranteed sun means more chances to get that extra does of vitamin D and vitamin sea (pool days for life). If you're travelling, I hope there's plenty of warmth wherever you are. And for those staying in Bahrain, don't fret. We're here and we've got plenty to offer your social feeds. #SummerJam☺

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com Insta: @shabs_a 4

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FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition • AUGUST 2019 VOLUME 12, ISSUE 12

DIRECTOR OMAR SHAHEEN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES PUBLISHERS RAMI KHALIL EDWARD SMITH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN JYOTI RAWAT PHOTOGRAPHY SHOBIN JOSEPH MAJU JOSE SIBY JOSEPH CONTRIBUTORS JAYNE GREEN LAYAL EL MAHMOUD YVONNE COLE PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0131 E-mail: rami@nansgroup.com PRINTED BY DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication.

However, FACT M.E. Bahrain cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. Bahrain Publishing W.L.L. Office 53, Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef. Ministry of Information. Subject Registration Number: CFB779

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• CONNECT

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER

@factmagazine

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Combining all four editions of FACT in Bahrain and the region, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from monthly food shoots, the best local events and all things fun from the FACT team around the Gulf.

FACEBOOK FACT Bahrain 15,737 likes Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine, all for our readers!

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Bahrain | First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in the country | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrity-world movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Bahrain in local supermarkets now!

“

'Cause a little bit of summer is what the whole year is all about." - John Mayer

ISSUU.COM FACT Bahrain 74,227 reads of the July issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu. com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and more, in Bahrain.

OUR FAVE FEATURE • SWEET SUMMER P21 •

#FACTMAGAZINE #FACTMIDDLEEAST #FOODARTSCULTURETRAVEL #THEONLYWAYISFACT 6

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• CHECK IT OUT

FACT FINDS

Lazy Legendary Lunch FORGET FRIDAY SHINDIGS AND PLAN YOUR NEXT CULINARY ADVENTURE ON A LEISURELY SATURDAY AFTERNOON AT LEGENDZ STEAKHOUSE, INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN.

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ever ones to pass up the opportunity to try something new, the FACT team was really impressed by the latest weekend dining offer from InterContinental Regency Bahrain; the Lazy Legendary Lunch at the hotel’s award-winning steakhouse. If quality and taste is what you want, this place truly has it all.

Join in with your nearest and dearest for this cosy Saturday afternoon get-together. All you need to do is show up and the Legendz team will take care of all the rest. Tuck into unlimited a la carte menu items, served directly to the table. Standouts include the fresh and flavourful steak tartare, the chilli and salt calamari, and the super refreshing rocket and pear salad which with a requested addition of blue cheese was elevated to a “wow” dish.

The masala crusted salmon was an unexpected and out of the

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box choice but one that we truly appreciated for the innovative mix of flavours. Of course, showcasing its roots, the filet mignonette steak at Legendz was an absolute treat. Cooked exactly how we like it at medium temperature, the meat is juicy and satisfying.

To end the meal, a selection of dessert is offered on a tray and we’re pleased to see a fantastic meal come to a beautifully sweet ending. We can’t recommend this enough and suggest you book your table right away. ✤

GO: BD19 NET WITH SOFT DRINKS AND BD29 WITH SELECTED BEVERAGES. SERVED EVERY SATURDAY FROM 11.30AM TO 4PM. CALL 1722 7777 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

SOFITEL BAHRAIN: A WONDERLAND OASIS Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is a wonderland of relaxation that allows its guests to escape to an idyllic place. Here’s what the resort is offering up in August…

LOCATED ON THE PRISTINE BEACH OF ZALLAQ, Sofitel Bahrain shelters the only Thalassotherapy institute in the Middle East with its unique forms of treatments using natural ointments and seawater. The majestically furnished hotel and resort shelters 28 suites, 21 prestige suites, six captivating rooftop opera suites and one breathtakingly unique royal suite built to make its guests feel like royalty. The six iconic rooftop Opera Suites each take you on trip to a different sensational destination from Morocco to Turkey to India. All of the Opera Suites, each with private infinity swimming pools are built with the idea of taking you to a journey of discovering different cultures.

To further encourage the discovery of pure euphoria at Sofitel Bahrain, they have extended the ever so popular Magnifique Half Board Offer that gives you a chance to experience true luxury and the pinnacle of prestige with your family, starting from only BD99 net for an exquisite Luxury Room with a glorious sea view, inclusive of buffet breakfast and dinner for two adults and two children under 12 years of age, in their award winning and critically acclaimed, Saraya Restaurant. In order to avail this limited time offer, you are required to call 1763 6363 when reserving your getaway.

Gather your loved ones as Sofitel Bahrain has something very special during the first three days of Eid at their award-wining restaurant, Saraya! Enjoy extravagant celebrations with the whole family as you delight your palates with a wide range of authentic Arabic dishes & sweets. These celebrations will include top of the line live entertainment by the talented; One Man Show, Robert, and prices start from BD25 net per person inclusive of soft beverages. If you are looking for a pure Arabesque experience, celebrate Eid in Pashawat with 10

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a special Eid dinner that will feature a sumptuous Arabian set menu and a dazzling line up of live oriental entertainment acts including live entertainment from the One Man Show, Robert, along with an exotic belly dancing show.

The hotel is keeping up the with summer vibes by hosting the Hawaiian themed Summer Friday Brunches on 2nd, 16th, 23rd and 30th of August! Put on your tropical clothes and revel in everything Hawaiian with a grand Luau themed Summer Friday Brunch. Indulge in a unique Hawaiian experience and enjoy a delightful gastronomic journey, full of delicious Hawaiian inspired dishes and refreshing beverages. Don’t miss out on the electrifying live performances, courtesy of the talented Cuban band.

This tropical family adventure will be extra delightful for your little ones with a special kid’s corner to keep them busy throughout this spectacular event. Extra special offer for the ladies on August 9, as all the dames are invited to enjoy a grand Women’s Summer Friday Brunch with exclusive 50% OFF and savour a gourmet selection of international dishes mixed with local flavours and thirst-quenching beverages. Then take over the dance floor with your friends and let loose to the finest tunes by the Cuban band. The excitement continues in August at Tapas with a special Fiesta Latina celebration every Friday 7pm onwards that will feature the tastiest Latin cuisine & extravagant live entertainment acts. Join in with your friends and dance to the rhythm of upbeat Latin music all night long. ✤

GO: CALL 3888 5789 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

LE MERIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Sheikh Khalifa Bin Salman Highway, Al Seef District, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T +973 1717 1000 lemeridienbahraincitycentre.com

BAHRAIN’S SWEETEST BRUNCH Every Fridays from 12:30PM to 4:00PM BHD 28 net inclusive of soft beverages BHD 40 net inclusive of selected beverages For more information or to make a reservation, please call +973 1717 1441 or WhatsApp +973 3350 2121

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• LISTEN UP

GROCERY GAMES: GOOD TASTE The region’s newly launched sustainable grocery portal GoodTaste.com is leading the way for online supermarket shopping in Bahrain.

GOODTASTE.COM OFFERS THE convenience for customers to shop from their phone, tablet or desktop and have their groceries delivered directly to their door, for free. And with a wide range of products, there’s something for everyone.

As well as providing an invaluable grocery shopping service, GoodTaste.com offers a lot more, including practical advice and ideas on healthy and sustainable living.

For easy-to-follow, must-cook recipes that include a oneclick option to add all the ingredients to your basket, check out GoodTaste.com/recipes.

And head to GoodTaste.com/journal for authoritative, informative and highly readable round-ups of the best life has to offer.

Seamlessly linking food shopping and delivery, combined with lifestyle, GoodTaste.com will help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends, including the newest recipes, top travel destinations, sustainable initiatives, health and beauty, food, fashion, events and home inspiration.

Shopping for groceries, finding foodie inspo and being part of the Good Taste community has never been so easy! ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.GOODTASTE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 12

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has arrived.

EXPERIENCE MORE

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• LISTEN UP

FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD… The upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays will mark the debut of the Broadway musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ in Bahrain, kicking off on August 13, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

THE WIZARD OF OZ MUSICAL is an enchanting revival of the all-time classic story developed from the ever-popular 1939 film, featuring all the favorite characters from the movie’s cast, starting with Dorothy, her dog Toto and their heartening friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow. The captivating production will capture the hearts of the audience, featuring breath-taking special effects, dazzling choreography and the classic songs from the film.

On this occasion, the CEO of BTEA, H.E. Shaikh Khaled Bin Humood Al Khalifa revealed: “We are truly delighted to host this Broadway musical in the Kingdom for the very first time. Hosting this landmark production comes in line with our strategy to increase the number of visitors in the Kingdom of Bahrain through launching exciting events and festivals continuously throughout the year.

“Our efforts remain dedicated towards increasing the tourism sector’s contribution to the national economy, we are consistently striving towards hosting world-renowned attractions and family activities, especially during holidays such as Eid, with overall aim of providing exceptionally entertaining and fun-filled experiences that appeal to audiences of all ages,” he added.

Hosting this event comes in line with the BTEA’s long term 14

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strategy to further develop the Kingdom’s tourism sector and strengthen its position on a regional and international level under the slogan of ‘Ours.Yours’, which contributes towards the Kingdom’s economy and the 2030 Economic Vision. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.MANAMA.PLATINUMLIST.NET/EVENTTICKETS/75722/THE-WIZARD-OF-OZ TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW.

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• LISTEN UP

CAREEM REWARDS! Careem has launched Careem REWARDS - one of the biggest rewards programme in the region with over 33 million users.

THE REWARDS PROGRAMME is already active on all 33 million Careem users’ apps and gives points on all rides paid by cash, card, or invoice - in any country in which they are riding with Careem.

Mudassir Sheikha, Careem’s co-founder and CEO, said: “We are so thankful to our customers that we wanted to recognise their loyalty with something in return - Careem is the first company in our industry to launch something like this in the region, and it’s a unique programme that rethinks how loyalty schemes work and focuses on simplicity of use and value.

“Someone who uses Careem daily to commute will, as a result of Careem Rewards, get at least two free rides per month,” he added.

“We are also delighted to be able to offer our users the chance to make a positive change in the region by using their points earned on Careem rides to make a genuine difference in the lives of those most in need.”

CAREEM GOLD If Careem customers take 15 rides a month they will additionally achieve Careem Gold status and enjoy benefits including 50 percent more points awarded on all rides, priority support across channels, and special offers exclusive to Gold customers, no matter which country they were in while using Careem.

Once unlocked, Careem Gold status is active for the month in 16

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which it was achieved, as well as the following two months. To maintain the Gold status, users have to unlock it again before it expires.

The launch of Careem REWARDS is part of Careem’s ongoing platform strategy as Careem continues to build the leading techenabled platform in the region.

CHARITABLE DONATIONS Points can be converted into credit appearing in the app wallet to spend on Careem rides or used to fund a range of charity donations. Local charities will appear depending on the user’s location.

Just 2,500 points will feed a child for a day or help a refugee obtain cooking gas. For 6,000 points, users can fund a child’s education for a day, while 15,000 points will feed a child for an entire week.

Careem already has other existing partnerships in place, including schemes with Shukran and Air Miles. Careem Rewards will be adding more top-tier partners and well-known brands in the coming months. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.CAREEM.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

YOUR VERY OWN PARADISE Welcome to the Reef Clubhouse and Lagoon Beach – an exclusive retreat offering an unrivalled leisure experience in a stylish sophisticated setting.

LOCATED ON THE PURPOSE-BUILT Reef Island, the picturesque Clubhouse & Lagoon Beach is perfectly positioned overlooking the panoramic view of Bahrain skyline and within close proximity to the city’s business and shopping district of Manama. Experience the warmth of Bahrain hospitality and relax in divine luxury while discovering the unimagined possibilities of leisure destination.

has a splendid wellness and spa, which makes an ideal spot for all ages and group of friends. There is really something for everyone.

FACILITIES & SERVICES Reef Clubhouse & Lagoon Beach offers guests a full range of great facilities from a fabulous floating restaurant, rooftop eateries and fully equipped recreational facilities and an indulgent spa.

THE CLUBHOUSE The Clubhouse is a vibrant hub of lifestyle amenities placing you at the heart of a world where dining, well-being, leisure, socialising and relaxation are all yours in luxury surroundings.

It also has a playroom area where a sphere of entertainment and educational fun will keep younger guests amused in a safe and engaging environment. This sultry escape is perfect for discovering a magnificent feeling of pleasure for explorers, couples or families - with fantastic kid’s facilities. Reef Clubhouse 18

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GASTRONOMY The Clubhouse offers a selection of International dining options guaranteeing unique and delightful experiences with an emphasis on healthy and seasonal cuisine. Guest can indulge remarkable food and beverage varieties from our rooftop lounges, stunning floating Lagoon Moon restaurant and beach Deli’s and Savoury areas while enjoying an assortment of recreational activities and adoring an amazing sunset.

LISTEN UP •

RESTO CLUB: The ground floor restaurant and terrace are the perfect place to enjoy gorgeous lagoon views while relishing Continental cuisine, buffet and signature cocktails.

SOCIETY LOUNGE: Located on the ground floor of building B, serves beverage selection and desserts for the social games enthusiasts.

POOL CAFÉ & BAR: Located on the 2nd floor, it caters for the indoor pool swimmers serving salads, sandwiches and desserts along with cocktails and mocktails.

JUICE BAR: Located on the intermediate building 2nd floor, it serves wide array of refreshing drinks and healthy juices.

ORIENTAL LOUNGE: Located on the rooftop of building B. Paying tribute to the beauty of Arabic traditions. The Arabic majlis seating provides a space for social events and family gatherings, where comfort meets luxurious style.

ROOFTOP SHISHA: Located on the rooftop of building A, serves a wide assortment of irresistible bites, sumptuous pastries, desserts, drinks and lavish shisha choice.

LAGOON MOON FLOATING RESTAURANT: Inspired by the centuries-old tradition and unique in Bahrain.. embark on a true journey of elegance, beginning with a boat ride from the marina dock across the lagoon to your destination, the floating restaurant. Enjoy the peaceful calm of a day time visit with a wide selection

of beverages and international menu or spend the evening with your loved ones and experience the culinary sensations combined with chill out music.

Enjoy casual dining as if you were on a cruise.

FLOATING LOUNGES: Three private floating lounges each can accommodate 12-15 persons. Equipped with own utilities and toilet that could be rented on a daily basis. The perfect venue for any occasion with stunning view of Bahrain skyline. Inclusive of butler service.

THE LAGOON BEACH The expanse of pristine sand gleaming beneath the sun, the relaxing waves of the sparkling azure sea with an aura of coastal sophistication overlooking the panorama of Bahrain’s skyline – this is the beauty of the 1km Lagoon Beach.

BEACHSIDE TENTS With the sun-kissed shore of the lagoon, take your pick from the selection of beach tents designed to offer supreme comfort. Each fully furnished space allows you to enjoy the beach in luxury, screened from the sun and refreshed by discreet fans. Tent categories: Single | Double | Triple | Concrete | Aluminium. ✤

GO: THE REEF CLUBHOUSE MEMBERSHIP PLANS ARE AVAILABLE FOR SINGLE, COUPLE AND FAMILY WITH DURATIONS OF 1 MONTH, 3 MONTHS, 6 MONTHS, AND 12 MONTHS. DAY PASSES FOR BEACH ACCESS ARE AVAILABLE TOO. CALL 7790 0700 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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Indulge in a Luxurious Summer Getaway This summer, escape to Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai and enjoy up 20% off our Best Available Rate when you book our Summer Moments offer.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call +971 4 777 2222 or visit mandarinoriental.com/Dubai 20

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BEAT THE HEAT 101 Bahrain is stepping up its indoor game as the scorchin’ sun comes out to play. FACT has you covered with the best brunches and wellness treats for the month ahead‌

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• SUMMER DAYS

BEST OF THE BRUNCH Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD31 net with unlimited selected beverages.

GO: Call 17531122 for reservations and more information.

EXTENDED FRIDAY BRUNCH Movenpick Hotel Bahrain Keep the fun going all afternoon long with Movenpick Hotel Bahrain’s Extended Friday Brunch. Head over to Al Murjan Ballroom and enjoy excellent chef’s special delicacies, a delightful selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere. Brunch will be served every Friday from 12.30pm to 5pm at BD38 per person including unlimited beverages. 50% off for children aged six to 12, while kids aged under six dine for free.

GO: Call 1746 0017 for reservations and more information.

BAHRAIN’S SWEETEST BRUNCH Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre “The Sweetest Brunch” awarded best brunch at the Citi FACT Dining Awards by popular vote, is ready for you to discover for yourself. Be prepared to indulge in a sensorial and savoury experience for BD28 net including soft drinks and water, or BD40 net including selected free flow beverages. Live music from the Twin Band. Book for 10 + people and receive 20% discount. Every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm.

GO: Call 1717 1144 for reservations and more information.

HAWAIIAN SUMMER FRIDAY BRUNCH Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa Get into the tropical spirit and celebrate everything Hawaiian with a grand Luau themed Summer Friday Brunch! Indulge in a unique Hawaiian experience and relish a delicious gastronomic journey full of full of delicious tropical inspired dishes and refreshing beverages. Enjoy the electrifying live performances by their talented Cuban band, as your little ones are taken care of with a dedicated kid’s corner. Brunch is served on the 2nd, 16th, 23rd and 30th of August from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD25 net per person inclusive of selected beverages. 50% off for kids aged 6 to 12, while children under six dine for free.

GO: Call 3888 5789 for reservations and more information.

FAMILY FRIDAY BRUNCH The Crowne Plaza Bahrain Take your weekend festivities up a notch with a fabulous Family Friday Brunch at The Crowne Plaza Bahrain! Relax by their temperature controlled pool area as you enjoy special cocktails, mocktails as well as a number of fun poolside activities. Your little ones are also taken care of with a kids menu, special kids’ amenities as well as a pool slide. Brunch will be served every

FRIDAY BRUNCH AT LA MED The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Indulge in a delicious buffet of international specialties, along with live cooking stations and a sumptuous sweets buffet while spending quality time with family and friends at your preferred luxury address. BD30 per person with soft beverages and BD38 per person with select beverages. No roast station during August. Served 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

GO: Call 1758 0000 for reservations and more information.

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Enjoy Luxury Stays Starting From BD99 Net Inclusive Of Sumptuous Breakfast And Delectable Dinner for two.

Live the French way 105 Zallaq Highway, Building 2015 , Block 1055 Zallaq Book your stay at sofitel.com/6722 | +973 17 63 63 63 PARIS – LONDON – NEW YORK – BEIJING – BALI – Coming soon: MEXICO CITY

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• SUMMER DAYS

WOMEN’S SUMMER FRIDAY BRUNCH Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa This one is for all the ladies! Gather all your friends and head over to Saraya Restaurant for a grand Women’s Summer Friday Brunch. Savour a gourmet selection of international dishes mixed with local flavours and refreshing beverages. Take over the dance floor with your girls and let lose to the finest tunes by their Cuban band. Brunch is served from 12.30pm to 4pm on August 9, at BD25 net per person inclusive of selected beverages. 50% off for kids aged six to 12, while children aged under six dine for free.

GO: Call 3888 5789 for reservations and more information.

FRIDAY GARDEN BRUNCH ART Rotana Amwaj Islands Take some time out of your busy schedule and escape to Choices Terrace’s heavenly indoor garden brunch. Tuck into a mouthwatering spread of delicious dishes along with live cooking stations and a beverage section offering a selection of unlimited drinks. Enjoy live performances by their in house band as your kids are taken care of with their exceptional kids area featuring a number of fun activities. Brunch is served every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD25 net with soft drinks and BD36 net with selected house beverages. BD12.5 for kids aged six to 12, while kids aged under six dine for free.

GO: Call 1600 0111 for reservations and more information.

FRIDAY BRUNCHISM InterContinental Regency Bahrain InterContinental Regency Bahrain invites you to indulge in a brunch like no other! Enjoy a large decadent buffet spread across three venues as well as live cooking stations, live entertainment and kids’ activities with access to pool area. Brunch is served every Friday starting from August 30, from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD22 net including non-alcoholic beverages and BD32 net including alcoholic beverages.

GO: Call 1722 7777 for reservations and more information.

BRUNCH AT BRASSERIE ROYALE Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain Brunch has never been this delicious! Treat your family and friends to a delicious brunch at Brasserie Royale and take your pick from an array of delectable culinary options including seafood and sushi to delectable pastries. Your little ones get to enjoy their dedicated buffet and special activities organised by the Bulbul Kids Club team, as the DJ keeps the beat flowing all afternoon. Brunch is served every Friday from 1pm to 5pm for BD27 net per person with soft drinks and complimentary pool and beach access, or BD35 net per person with selected beverages and complimentary beach and pool access.

GO: Call 7770 7070 for reservations and more information.

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FRIDAY BRUNCH Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Indulge in lavish culinary offerings, including five unique food stations serving Arabic, Western, Indian, Japanese and Chinese delicacies. Shisha is also available on the restaurant terrace during brunch hours. BD30 net inclusive of soft beverages; BD43 net inclusive of premium beverages. Kids aged between six and 12 get 50% discount and this aged under six eat for free.

GO: Call 1711 5000 for reservations and more information.

Chef Tahir, the Al-Sofra Friday brunch is all you need to make your weekends a whole lot tastier. Avail their special Buy 1 Get 1 Free promotion and treat yourself to an indulgent, epicurean weekend outing with your loved ones. Brunch is served every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD12++ including soft beverages.

GO: Call 1758 4400 for reservations and more information.

SUMMER FRIDAY BRUNCH Downtown Rotana Start your summer off right with an amazing brunch experience at Flavours on 2. Dig into an array of international and local dishes as well as a live cooking station dedicated to making your food just the way you like it. Book for four people and get two free! Brunch is served at BD22 net including non-alcoholic beverages or BD33 net including unlimited drink package.

GO: Call 1311 9999 for reservations and more information.

THE GRAND BRUNCH

FUN FRIDAY BRUNCH The Crowne Plaza Bahrain Fridays have never been tastier! Make your way to The Harvesters Pub and Terrace and tempt your senses as you indulge in their Fun Friday Brunch. Take your pick from a fantastic variety of mouthwatering international cuisines as well as unlimited refreshing selected beverages. Brunch will be served from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD33 net with unlimited selected beverages.

GO: Call 1753 1122 for reservations and more information.

AL-SOFRA FRIDAY BRUNCH Mercure Grand Hotel Seef Relish a decadent mix of contemporary delicacies with a Mediterranean influence at Neyran Restaurant. Spearheaded by 26

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Marzipan Restaurant A brunch that celebrates family, gorge on a lush buffet of live grills and an array of desserts to follow. There’s plenty of funfilled activities for everyone to enjoy. Every Friday from 12noon to 4pm. Priced at BD8.9 net per person.

GO: Call 1750 4050 for reservations and more information.

Bahrain Hotel

Music for your soul Five Motion Band

Live entertainment by “Five Motion” Band Weekdays Weekends

8:30 PM - 12:30 AM 8:30 PM - 1:30 AM (Except Saturdays)

An Nada Lounge is open from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM on weekdays and from 1:00 PM to 2:00 AM on weekends. sheratonbahrainhotel

sheratonbahrain

sheratonbahrain

Find out more, call +973 17533533 or visit Marriott.com/BAHSI

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

P.O. Box 30, 6 Palace Avenue, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain sheratonbahrain.com

©2019 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All names, marks and logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

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• SUMMER DAYS

BRUNCH THIS WAY… One of the best occasions to catch up and have a great time with family and friends is during the Eid Al Adha break, and brunchin’ around town is the perfect place to start!

EID AL ADHA BRUNCHES Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Celebrate the auspicious occasion of Eid Al Adha with a scrumptious brunch at Bahrain Bay Kitchen. Indulge in a gourmet buffet as you enjoy a number of delectable delicacies including a goat carving station as well as a number of traditional dishes.

Every table will be gifted a traditional Bahraini sweet to enjoy at home! Brunch will be served from 1pm to 4pm at BD30 net inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages and BD43 net inclusive of alcoholic beverages. Children aged six to 12 get 50% discount and kids aged five and younger dine for free. Available during the first three days of Eid Al Adha.

GO: Call 1711 5550 for reservations and more information.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa Make it an Eid to remember with an exquisite Eid Al Adha Arabic Brunch at Saraya Restaurant. Join them on the first three days of Eid and enjoy extravagant celebrations with the whole family as you delight your taste buds with a wide range of authentic Arabic dishes and sweets. The celebrations will include top of the line live entertainment by the talented, One Man Show, Robert. Brunch will be served from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD25 net per person inclusive of soft beverages and BD30 net per person inclusive of selected beverages. 50% off for kids aged six to 12, while children aged under six dine for free.

GO: Call 3888 5789 for reservations and more information.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef Gather your friends and family and celebrate Eid Al Adha with extravagantly indulgent brunch at Neyran Restaurant. Tuck into an appetising array of international and traditional cuisines fused with local flair, as you sway to the tunes of the vibrant live entertainment. Enjoy a special Buy One Get One Free offer during the second and third day of Eid! Brunch is served from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD12++ inclusive of unlimited soft beverages.

GO: Call 1758 4400 for reservations and more information.

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Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre Feast at the special Eid Al Adha brunch in Baharat, which features several international cuisines, a wide range of traditional Eid specialities with grilled meat, seafood and traditional Ouzi to make your time spent with loved ones truly special. Served on the first day of Eid from 12.30pm to 4pm. BD20 net with soft drinks, BD30 net with free flowing beverages, children aged six to 12 dine at half price and children aged under six dine for free.

GO: Call 1717 1144 for reservations and more information.

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Celebrate Eid Al Adha In The Heart Of Seef With Mercure’s Grand Eid Lunch Buffet And Our Special Buy 1 + 1 FREE On The Second & Third Day Of Eid! Gather Your Loved Ones For An Extraordinary Blend Of International & Local Flavours At Neyran Restaurant With Live Entertainment.

For An Indulgent, Epicurean Eid Lunch, Priced At BD12 ++ With Soft Beverages, Please Reserve In Advance By Calling

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• SUMMER DAYS

SATURDAY INDULGING BRUNCH FIESTA AT CANTINA KAHLO The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Enjoy a delicious assortment of Mexican classics, select beverages and heavenly desserts while basking in the cosy atmosphere of this vibrant venue with family and friends. BD23 per person with soft beverages; and BD36.5 per person with selected beverages. Saturdays from 12pm to 4pm.

GO: Call 3888 5789 for reservations and more information.

SATURDAY ITALIAN BRUNCH ART Rotana Amwaj Island Enjoy brunch the Italian way with a memorable meal at Rosso Restaurant! Treat your taste buds to the finest imported meats and special cheeses, delicious live pasta stations, fresh fluffy pizza delivered to your table as well as luscious Italian desserts.

Brunch is served every Saturday from 12pm to 4pm at BD20 net with soft drinks and BD26 net with selected house beverages.

BD10 for kids aged six to 12, while kids aged under six dine for free.

GO: Call 1600 0111 for reservations and more information.

LAZY LEGENDARY LUNCH InterContinental Regency Bahrain Join in for a cosy Lazy Legendary Lunch. All you need to do is show up and the culinary team will take care of the rest.

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon lunch with your family and savour an unlimited a la carte menu at your table for BD19. If that’s not relaxing enough, you can continue to chill at Elements Lounge.

From 11.30am to

ANGHAM ARABIC BRUNCH Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa Every Saturday, embark on a truly unique culinary journey with the decadent Angham Arabic Brunch at Saraya Restaurant.

Enjoy the mesmerising live Arabic entertainment by the talented Lebanese singer, Robert, as you tuck into some mouthwatering traditional flavours. Brunch will be served from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD25 net per person inclusive of soft beverages and BD29 net per person inclusive of selected beverages. 50% off for kids aged six to 12, while children aged under six dine for free.

GO: Call 3888 5789 for reservations and more information.

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AL WAHA WALEEMA BRUNCH The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Relax and unwind at the new and revamped Al Waha restaurant with their scrumptious Al Waha Waleema Brunch. Tuck into mouthwatering traditional flavours as you relish in the authentic world of Arabic food culture that The Gulf Hotel is known for.

Brunch is served every Saturday at BD18++ per person.

GO: Call 1771 3000 for reservations and more information.

ELITE SUMMER ESCAPE

Elite Grande Hotel Single / Twin Bedroom 2 Bedroom Suite

BD 32 ++ BD 60 ++

Elite Resort & Spa Single / Twin Bedroom 2 Bedroom Suite

BD 36 ++ BD 66 ++

Elite Seef Residence & Hotel Single / Twin Bedroom 2 Bedroom Suite

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BD 32 ++ BD 60 ++

Rates are in Bahrain Dinars and subject to 10% Service Charge Above rates are subject to 5% Government Levy Above rates are subject to 5% Vat Above rates are Inclusive of breakfast buffet Above rates are inclusive of wifi Internet connection Above rates are applicable until end of September 2019

Call: +973 17 558 200

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www.elitegrouphotels.com

• SUMMER DAYS

SUMMER WELLNESS Some of our favourite spas are offering up sweet summer deals to help you to escape the heat… for body and mind, the Spa InterContinental’s Senses Candle Massage by Bruno Vassari is the epitome of relaxation and rejuvenation. Treat your senses to refreshing treatments from award-winning luxury European brand Bruno Vassari and natural products such as fruits, seeds, chocolate and yogurt.

GO: Call 1722 7777 for reservations and more information.

MASSAGE TREATMENTS Crowne Plaza Hotel Bahrain Offering everything from facials and body scrubs to massage therapies and combined packages, this is just what you need after a hard day’s work. The Spa is the perfect place for complete restoration with a holistic experience, created to rejuvenate so that you are fresh and ready to go!

GO: Call 1752 5812 for reservations and more information.

LAVENDER INFUSED PEPPERMINT BODY SCRUB SPA’AFTERNOON TEA Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Unwind with a choice of indulgent massages followed by a skin rejuvenating express facial, along with their Four Seasons Afternoon Tea experience as dessert. Think freshly made finger sandwiches, delicious sweet delicacies, soothing teas and much more! The offer is available for an exclusive summer price of BD95 per person.

GO: Call 1711 5045 for reservations and more information.

NEW HYDROPEPTIDE FACIALS Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain is bringing the professional skincare brand HydroPeptide to Bahrain! HydroPeptide is a worldwide anti-ageing authority, defined by their use of the most powerful anti-ageing ingredients available with a specific focus on peptides. Try any of their exclusive HydroPeptide facials and get a complimentary Polypeptide Collagel Eye Mask, plus access to the pool and beach. Offer is available until August 15.

GO: Call 7770 7070 for reservations and more information.

THALASSA HYDRO REJUVENATION PACKAGE Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa Beat the summer heat and discover your very own cocoon of sheer relaxation. This sensationally invigorating treatment includes a 30-minute Seawater Hydromassage, a 30-minute Exfoliating and Detoxifying Afusion Scrub and a 60-minute Relaxing Body Massage. The offer is available at BD60 per person.

GO: Call 1763 6391/92 for reservations and more information.

SENSES CANDLE MASSAGE BY BRUNO VASSARI InterContinental Regency Bahrain Bridging the gap between expert skincare and total wellness 32

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Movenpick Hotel Bahrain This refreshing treatment is all you need to get summer ready.

Infused with natural lavender and peppermint particles, it removes dead skin and leaves you with a radiant glow. To relax further, take advantage of the complimentary 30-minute massage.

GO: Call 1746 0051 for reservations and more information.

SUMMER INHIBIT FACIAL BY NATURE BISSE The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Minimise wrinkles without using micro-injections with this lifting and expression line correcting treatment. Thanks to its powerful revitalising action and effective filling effect, this professional lifting not only diminishes expression lines and corrects the signs of ageing but also achieves extraordinarily firm and hydrated skin.

BD90 / 75 minutes.

GO: Call 1758 6808 for reservations and more information.

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Blinded By The Light

Highlights

WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

Javed, a British teen of Pakistani descent, writes poetry to escape the racial and economic turmoil of 1987 England.

When a classmate introduces him to the music of Bruce Springsteen, Javed begins to relate to the powerful lyrics on a deep level. As Javed discovers a way to realise his repressed dreams, he also starts to express himself in his own voice.

DIRECTOR: Gurinder Chadha CAST: Viveik Kalra, Hayley Atwell, Rob Brydon

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Doing what Gurinder Chadha does best, Blinded By The Light brings to the fore the British-Asian formula, set against the backdrop of brewing cultural struggle.

Following the far-reaching impact of the 2002 romantic sports comedy, Bend it Like Beckham, the director’s newest offering centers around Bruce Springsteen and his glorious music. Filling a complicated void in his life, Springsteen’s touching lyrics come as a blessing to Javed. Growing up in the town of Luton, England, Javed, a British teen of Pakistani descent, writes poetry as a means to escape the intolerance of his hometown and the inflexibility of his traditional father. When a classmate introduces him to the music of “The Boss”, Javed is awakened by his powerful music and sees parallels to his working class life. What follows is Javed’s journey of selfdiscovery and expressing himself in his own unique voice.

Go and watch it for his raw emotional honesty, gripping plot and impeccable costume and production design.

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Angel Has Fallen WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

“

Go and watch it for his raw emotional honesty, gripping plot and impeccable costume and production design.

Following the failed assassination attempt of U.S. President Allan Trumbull, authorities take Secret Service agent Mike Banning into custody. After escaping from his captors, it is up to Banning to evade the FBI and his own agency to find the real threat to the president.

– Blinded By The Light DIRECTOR: Ric Roman Waugh CAST: Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman, Jada Pinkett Smith

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Buckle up - Gerard Butler’s Mike Banning is back again in Angel Has Fallen! The third installment in the Olympus Has Fallen film series, Angel Has Fallen is just as OTT and actionpacked as its predecessors. After the events of London Has Fallen, Secret Service Agent Mike Banning finds himself framed for an assassination attempt on President Allam Trumbull.

Chased by his own agency and the FBI, Banning turns to unlikely allies in a race against time to clear his name and uncover the real terrorist threat, while saving the whole world from the looming danger. Combining your love for jaw-dropping carnage and thrilling action sequences with an impeccable storyline, Angel Has Fallen is definitely a film that you shouldn’t miss.

SUN - WED

LADIES night 6pm - 9pm

wine dine weekends

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• ENTERTAINMENT

FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

NON-FICTION

Our Women on the Ground: Essays by Arab Women Reporting from the Arab World

By Zahra Hankir and Christiane Amanpour

HIP HOP

Revenge of the Dreamers III

By J. Cole

Make way for the OG, as J. Cole is back with a banging new record! The third compilation

by American record label Dreamville and J. Cole, Revenge of the Dreamers III introduces listeners to a thriving collaborative environment. Featuring an A-list roster of appearances from several artists including DaBaby, T.I., Young Nudy, Ty Dolla Sign, Maxo Kream and Vince Staples among others, the album ushers in a new sense of community and blesses us with some truly soul-stirring music. Talking about topics like Cole’s position in the rap scene, the change in rap culture as well as his feuds with other rappers, “Middle Child” is lyrically powerful yet super catchy.

Reflecting on his musical past, present and future, the scintillating track is a total game changer for Cole. A melodious meeting of musical minds, the album has birthed tracks that we will be belting out for years to come.

Featuring Bas, JID, Guapdad 4000, Reese LAFLARE, Jace, Mez, Smokepurpp, Buddy, and Ski Mask The Slump God, “Costa Rica” showcases hard-hitting beats that are going to leave you all hyped. Treating listeners to artists on the rise and unparalleled sounds, this mass compilation was definitely worth the wait. A collaboration for the ages!

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FOLK-POP

No. 6 Collaborations Project

By Ed Sheeran

Hitting us yet again with his impeccable charm, mesmerising lyrics and heartwarming vocals, Ed Sheeran’s latest offering is a true work of art. The fourth studio album by the English singersongwriter, No. 6 Collaborations Project has us very excited. A follow-up to Sheeran’s 2011 EP No. 5 Collaborations Project, the album includes a range of guest appearances from artists such as Justin Bieber, Camila Cabello, Travis Scott, Eminem, 50 Cent and Cardi B. “I Don’t Care”, an infectious smash featuring Justin Bieber is destined to be a total banger. Showcasing Sheeran’s knack for an impermeable hook and Bieber’s unique sound, the track brings their combined star power to the forefront. Dabbling in everything from grime, hip-hop to balladry and Latino love songs, the album gives us a little bit of everything. Reminding you to stay true to yourself, “Beautiful People” featuring Khalid will have you in your feelings.

Opening with pretty vocal harmonies, the track floats over winsome melody and handclap-enhanced rhythms. Definitely our favourite song of the moment.

Giving us a candid look inside the world of female Middle Eastern journalists, the book reflects on what it’s like to report from the region.

Shifting the narrative away from Western correspondents, the book brings together 19 women that share what it’s like to report on conflicts that are close to home. The raw, shocking and heartfelt stories will give you something to think about.

FICTION

Supper Club

By Lara Williams Lost and alienated in life, Roberta is stuck in a mindless job and is reluctant to pursue her passion for food. But when she meets Stevie, a spirited and vivacious artist, their passionate friendship ignites a change in Roberta. Together, they invent the Supper Club, a joyous collective of women that gather to celebrate their hungers. An intelligent, intimate and savagely funny read that will give you a brand new perspective on life.

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BOUTIQUE CANVAS

HAVING SEEN IT ALL WHEN IT COMES TO HOSPITALITY – THE LUXURIOUS, THE BUDGET, THE EXTRAVAGANT VILLAS, THE CLEAN AND PRACTICAL CITY ACCOMMODATION, IT NOW TAKES SOMETHING REALLY SPECIAL TO HOLD OUR ATTENTION. WOWING US FROM THE FIRST MOMENT WE STEPPED INTO ITS QUAINT AND COLOURFUL LOBBY, THE MERCHANT HOUSE IS ONE OF BAHRAIN’S HIDDEN GEMS, AND FACT IS READY TO LET YOU IN ON THIS LITTLE SECRET… fact magazine

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here is an old-world charm steeped in the very walls of The Merchant House; you only need admire the exposed pillars kept from the original building’s framework to notice that a lot of thought has gone into preserving the past and bringing it into an urban, sophisticated space so flawlessly.

Colour is the name of the game here as edgy, pretty and statement-making artworks adorn the walls of the boutique hotel. In fact, there are 196 pieces in total, with many created by well-established and upcoming Bahraini and Gulf artists.

Alongside these, you’ll find international talents including the likes of Andy Warhol and Damien Hirst, who have also taken up residence through their art at The Merchant House (it’s a treasure hunt in itself to walk around the hotel in search of the coolest art, and definitely something worthy of the ‘gram).

The brainchild of luxury hotel giant Campbell Gray, much like the brand’s many other hotels, The Merchant House’s unique design and dedication to its location, really epitomises the Campbell Gray philosophy. Here, the lobby alone is enough to blow you away – there’s nothing else like it in Bahrain – even the plush furnishings are an invite to sink into a comfy chair or sofa and take a minute to breathe and appreciate your surroundings. This is the beauty of The Merchant House; located right next door to the bustle of lively Bab al Bahrain, the gateway to Manama souk, the hotel is one of the most unique spots to remind you of how prominent this area is to Bahrain’s history, heritage and tourism. We can’t think of a better place to coop up this summer…

SUITE LIVING With only 46 beautifully appointed suites, The Merchant House features a unique collection of contemporary decor and bursts with exciting details. We walk into a Corner Suite only to be met with a generous dining and sitting area, kitchen counter equipped with bean-to-cup coffee machine, tea making facilities, minibar, freezer and ice dispenser, living and bedroom flat screen TVs, work desk and multi-plug charging station, a safe, bedside lighting and A/C controls, lush bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer, plus natural, chemical free bathroom products.

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As far as space goes, the design and layout of the suite is spot on. There’s a very classy city apartment meets kitsch countryside home vibes – we want the same interior in our own home, it’s beautiful and airy, and, surprisingly, very quiet.

At a generous size of 60sqm, the suite is filled with natural light which is one of the best aspects – you never feel like you’re in the middle of the busiest area. To top that off, the king size beds are in a whole different realm of comfort as we experience the most peaceful night’s sleep. We can imagine this being a total sanctuary after a day walking through the alleyways of Manama souq. Where The Merchant House excels is in the details – the mini bar and snacks are stocked with the most delicious treats – we’re talking Häagen-Dazs ice cream, Cadbury chocolate and Tyrrells’ crisps. The suite life doesn't get better and more stylish than this.

EPICUREAN ELEGANCE The rooftop, another Campbell Gray speciality, is where you will find the hotel’s restaurant and bar and its outdoor garden terrace. Indigo is what we imagine exists in faraway Mediterranean homes where orange trees grow and the prettiest flowers bloom. Inspired by the travel experiences of Executive Chef Robert Shipman, the restaurant’s new summer menu incorporates in-season ingredients and highquality products. Highlights include fresh sushi rolls; Salmon & Avocado Roll and Crab & Mango Roll. Besides the favourite fact magazine

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Service is exceptional whilst the quality of ingredients can really be tasted in every dish – we leave completely full and satisfied.

A library of over 1000 curated books hangs above the lobby for guests and visitors to enjoy. It’s the ideal place to meet for a cuppa as is Café Gray in the lobby! Food is taken seriously and made with love at The Merchant House – your tummy will be well taken care of during the stay!

RELAXATION REFINED

staple dishes, guests can enjoy a selection of Mediterranean dishes with an Asian flair such as the Seared Scallops with Sunchoke Puree, which originates from the South of France fused with a Japanese twist or the Local Hammour with Crispy Sesame Crust served with a fusion of bok choy and chermoula sauce. Some of the other choices on the menu include Yuzu Kosho Salsa, Seabass Sashimi and Lobster & Scallop Saganaki. For those with a sweet tooth, the Yuzu White Chocolate Cheesecaketopped with locally sourced walnuts or the Almond Filo served with saffron ice cream provides the perfect ending to a deliciously fresh culinary experience.

A tender 18-hour lamb shank, crisp salads, and an eggplant moussaka that will bring back so much nostalgia from travels to Italy – are some of our faves. The lime panna cotta and chocolate fondant are excellent desserts to end your meal.

The new menu is complemented by an impressive selection of creative signature mocktails and cocktails. Choose from the zesty flavours of Watermelon Berry or Chamomile Strawberry as you unwind in the stylish surrounds of Indigo. The venue strikes a perfect balance with delectable offerings and a warm intimate ambiance for a refreshing summer.

A spa, a gym, and an emerald rooftop pool complement the hotel’s offering, as well as a small board room for meetings and events. Comprising of two treatment rooms, PureGray Spa provides quality treatments and packages using various techniques for the face and body. We tried out their 90-minute massage where Kitty, a lovely and professional therapist used the finest natural oils from Green Bar to help tackle our tense muscles and tight knots – especially in the upper back and shoulder. From start to finish, we were completely relaxed and had one of the best naps – a much-needed respite from the outside world and one you will truly be thankful for during your stay too. The hotel’s gym uses the latest Technogym fitness equipment and is open 24-hours a day, exclusively for hotel guests.

As the demand for more bespoke and intimate service as well as more one-of-a-kind hospitality comes to the forefront of travellers’ requirements, The Merchant House has managed to tap into this very niche but still manages to provide a warm and inviting ambience that is perfect for international visitors and local guests alike. As much as we want to keep it for ourselves, this boutique haven is worth every compliment, every instagram post and every conversation. You’ll know exactly what we mean when you book your stay and walk through its doors… ✤

GO: CALL 1667 1000 OR VISIT WWW.CAMPBELLGRAYHOTELS. COM/MERCHANT-HOUSE-BAHRAIN/ FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• SOCIETY

#OFFICIAL #OPENING #OF #NEW #FITNESS #STUDIO #AT #THE #ROYAL #BEACH #CLUB 44

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#HOME #CENTRE #STORE #RELAUNCH

PARADISE PERFECT WHEN LOOKING FOR A PLACE FOR A STAYCAY IN BAHRAIN, YOU WANT COMFORTABLE, HASSLE-FREE AND RELAXING – A PLACE THAT GOES ALL-OUT TO CATER TO YOUR EVERY NEED. THE RITZ-CARLTON BAHRAIN OFFERS JUST THAT, AND SO MUCH MORE. FACT EXPERIENCED THE CLUB LEVEL FACILITIES TO FIND OUT WHAT MAKES THIS PROPERTY THE IDEAL SUMMER HOTSPOT FOR GUESTS TO STAY…

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• HOTEL HOTSPOT

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ocated on a private beach on the island’s north coast, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain blends urban sophistication and resort-style luxury. The tranquil paradise is mere minutes from Manama city centre where Bahrain’s rich culture and heritage comes alive. For those who want a summer staycation that does not involve leaving the hotel much, look no further than The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. A real piece of secluded bliss with a beautiful outdoor pool, a convenient indoor pool, a pristine private beach, a majestic Turkish Hammam and spa with plunge pools, steam room and sauna, and a sports club with fully-equipped gymnasiums (there’s a ladies only too), a squash court, tennis courts, and, for the little ones, the Ritz Kids Club offering numerous safe and exciting activities – there are numerous reasons why this is the ideal place for your next weekend getaway. Let us tell you a little more about this picturesque resort…

SUITE LIFE Accommodation at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain includes 31 Suites, 42 Club Level Rooms and 15 stunning threebedroom seafront villas with private pools, 24-hour butler service and direct beach access. Guests visiting on a long weekend or short break should opt for the spacious Club Room. Highlights include a generous space with a huge separate marble bathroom decked out in a soaking bathtub, rainforest shower, terry cloth bathrobes and comfortable slippers, luxurious Asprey brand bath amenities, an endless supply of towels, hair dryer and lighted shaving and make-up mirror, and even a 15-inch flat-screen TV in the bathroom mirror – excellent for when you’re taking a long soak in the tub after a day of exploring the resort! There’s a 42-inch LED TV with premium channels available and even a Bose iPod docking station for your personal use. Floor to ceiling windows offer views of the glittering Arabian Gulf and resort grounds. The practical design yet airy feel to the room made it very comfortable and enjoyable. You’ll easily sink into the plush feather bed for a peaceful night’s sleep; happily get up and make a tea or coffee using the in-room facilities (there’s even a Nespresso machine), and you can personalise your time using the iPod docking station, not to mention that there’s a great number of channels available and the high-speed internet throughout the hotel is fast indeed!

SERVICE REFINED There’s no denying that having a few added personal touches to your hotel stay is always a welcomed effort, and the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain sure does its utmost best for Club level guests. Upon arrival, we were escorted to a personalised check-in desk on 46

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the 7th floor. Aside from this, club level guests also receive privileged access to the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge; a gorgeous and elegant space made up with stylish seating, dining tables, comfy sofas with a TV area, and, of course, a buffet station where a generous breakfast, light snacks, hors d’oeuvres and evening desserts and cordial is served, complimentary for Club Level guests.

What made experiencing the Club Lounge all the more special was having attentive service and friendly welcomes from all the staff – it is definitely the people that elevated our stay.

WELLNESS WONDER Expect exceptional luxury and relaxation at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Not only are the treatments incredible, using world-famous Natura Bisse and ESPA products. At the heart of the spa is the lovely thalassotherapy pool with its healing properties of natural waters rich in minerals vital to wellbeing.

This is the kind of place that refreshes your soul, partly accredited to wonderful therapists such

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• HOTEL HOTSPOT

as Tatsiana who was the epitome of professional.

Listening to all of our concerns, she worked wonders using vigorous and gentle techniques alongside the hot stones to help tackle a dull headache that has built up as a result of tight shoulders. We fell into a relaxed slumber and left with a lighter and more rejuvenated spirit. As far as staycations go, you’re going to be well looked after at the spa!

FOOD FINESSE There’s a lot to celebrate (and brag about) when it comes to dining at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. The resort offers 12 international restaurants, lounges and bars which literally cater to every palate. Standouts include the award-winning Mexican eatery Cantina Kahlo where we savoured some of the freshest, tableside guacamole and authentic street food delights like tamales and sopes as well as the delectable churros; then there’s the famous Nirvana which is named so aptly considering the food journey here is like being in complete Nirvana – Indian delicacies made with the most aromatic flavours, the biryani and the butter chicken are both a must-try. When your Italian cravings kick in, Primavera is the place to take a seat.

Everything from their Parmagiana to the tortellini, the seafood and risotto, are absolutely mouthwatering.

What we weren’t prepared for, however, was the best cheesecake of our lives. No exaggeration. Get comfy at The Ritz Gourmet Lounge and order the cheesecake with a rose latte – you won’t regret it.

Needless to say, food is something you absolutely don’t have to worry about during your staycation! ✤ 48

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Summer Retreat Unlock a world of summer adventures and embrace the best our luxury beachfront resort has to offer.

Experience world-renowned shopping just steps away, adventures at sea on our Pearl 1, award-winning fine dining and more. Whatever your taste, be inspired and rewarded everywhere you go.

The package includes: Deluxe room accommodation, up to 25% savings for reward members and daily breakfast in La Med; up to 15% savings for non-reward members.

Sea Adventures Aboard The Pearl 1 Explore, discover and take to the sea on our resort’s Pearl 1 during your visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Known as the land of the two seas with its 33 islands and azure turquoise waters, enjoy daily excursions that truly excite exploring hidden enclaves, the kingdom’s coastline, dolphin watching and more.

Excursions are available for 3 to 6 hour periods for up to 6 passengers and include your choice of a picnic lunch, along with bottled water and soft beverages. Trips are subject to weather and the tidal conditions.

Advance reservations required. Three hours: BHD 150. Six hours: BHD 300.

“Let’s Chaat” at Nirvana Thursdays to Saturdays, Lunch 12pm to 3pm; Dinner 7pm to 11.30pm.

Join in as the culinary team brings you popular Indian street food to the table. Welcome the simple refinement and comfort of home cooking this summer season and savor the harmony of textures, flavours and aromas of Indian street delicacies including favorites like Aloo Tikki, Murg Chatpatta, Channa Chaat, Sev-Murmura Chaat and more. A la carte

Chef’s Table Experience at Primavera Daily, 12pm to 3pm; 7pm to 11pm.

Enjoy a sumptuous five-course Chef’s Table menu especially prepared by the dedicated chef. The indulgent set menu includes fried eggplant with cherry tomato and smoked ricotta cheese, homemade Bolognese tortellini, hammour with Sicilian eggplant caponata, lamb fillet with herb crust, green peas, sautéed mushrooms and fondant potato and fruit and vegetable minestrone with yogurt sorbet. BD29 per person.

“Viva La Vida” Brunch Fiesta September 14, 12noon to 4pm The colours of the Mexican flag will come alive at Cantina Kahlo for Mexican Independence Day. Join the brunch fiesta featuring traditional dishes, live stations, irresistible sweets and festive décor. BD23 with soft beverages and BD36.5 with select beverages.

THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA OFFERS

Lift & Firm Detox Body Treatment BD80 | 60 minutes Get glowing all summer long with our unique 60-minute lift and firm detox treatment. Start your session with a full body brush to remove dead skin cells, followed by a detoxifying salt and seaweed scrub. The soothing session then ends with a therapeutic body massage for a complete state of relaxation and elevation of the mind, body and soul. As a bonus, purchase any three Lift & Firm treatments and receive one with our compliments.

Summer Inhibit Facial by Nature Bisse BD90 | 75 minutes Minimise wrinkles without using micro-injections with this lifting and expression line correcting treatment.

Thanks to its powerful revitalising action and effective filling effect, this professional lifting not only diminishes expression lines and corrects the signs of aging but also achieves extraordinarily firm and hydrated skin.

GO: CALL 17558 6868 OR VISIT WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM/EN/HOTELS/MIDDLE-EAST/BAHRAIN FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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TIMELESS SANCTUARY Swaying coconut trees, lush foliage, white sand beaches and turquoise waters are what you’ll find at the breathtaking Vakkaru Maldives. Located in the island archipelago’s Baa Atoll, this idyllic retreat is the epitome of postcard perfect as FACT finds out…

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othing quite prepares you for your first time in the Maldives. No matter how many times we had Googled Vakkaru, sinking our feet into the resort’s sandy shores, hugged by clear blue waters, was a sight (and feeling) that far exceeded all of our expectations. Is this even real life? We’re greeted by Vakkaru’s warm staff at the arrivals lounge in Malé, which is packed with light refreshments, delicious snacks and drinks and a very comfortable seating area. For those who may have come off a long flight and need a relaxing rinse, you can do this here. The best bit? You look right onto the docking area for the seaplanes – and soon, we’re hopping onto one for our 35-minute journey to the picture-perfect Vakkaru Maldives. For those who may have a fear of small planes, you can rest-assured that safety is paramount before departing.

On arrival at the resort, staff await with drinks, and voila, we’re in paradise.

SUITE INDULGENCE When it comes to accommodation, Vakkaru Maldives is the embodiment of what you imagine the Maldives has to offer. From beach suites to overwater villas and everything in between, the resort has the ideal choices for couples, groups of friends and families too. There are lush intimate Beach Bungalows all the way up to the big and beautiful four-bedroom Overwater Pool Residence. We check into the lavish Beach Pool Suite with direct beach access and views for days (that’s your next post for the ‘gram sorted). There’s too much to take in, but we’re especially blown away by the breezy open-air vibes and beach house meets tropical touch décor. Drawing on the rich traditions of the locale, design elements are focused on Maldivian style fused with the finest natural elements as we wanted to preserve the integrity of local architecture with a contemporary style. The result is the creation of amazing spaces for guests to connect with each other and the environment around them. We can attest to this being 100 per cent effective!

The outdoor rain shower is an absolute highlight, made for those Snapchat stories to garner all the FOMO from your followers.

There’s a separate living room which is SO comfy for afternoon naps and quiet reads whilst the 32m2 private pool and private beachfront terrace make outdoor living a necessity here. You accommodation faces the azure waters of the lagoon and at every turn you’ll find that, visually, Vakkaru Maldives is EVERYTHING it promises to be. Don’t forget to make the most of all the different areas within your private quarters to top up the tan and swim to your heart’s content.

The standouts of this suite were in the little details. It has, hands down, one of the best gourmet mini bars of any hotel we’ve ever 50

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GLOBETROTTER •

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• GLOBETROTTER stayed in. To top this off, you get all your standard amenities like cosy slippers and bathrobes, and sustainable luxury bathroom amenities.

Like in all the rooms, Vakkaru goes the extra mile to provide guests with sunbeds and yoga mats, a beach bag and flip flops, bicycles and even butler service. What more could you ask for?

The Overwater Villa we stayed in for the last couple of nights was nothing short of wanderlust dreams. The ultimate romantic hideaway set over the turquoise lagoon, the Overwater Villas are elegantly designed for two adults looking to appreciate the wonder of their aquatic surroundings. At 140m2, space is no issue whilst the private overwater sundeck, massive king bed with exquisite pure cotton bed linen, and direct lagoon access, are just some of the great benefits of opting for this cosy villa. One feature to highlight would be that guests receive a notification on their TV for each prayer time – brilliant. Again, it’s the neutral interiors and, more specifically, the best bath tub we’ve ever experienced, that leads us to say that this could very well be the number one luxury accommodation that we have encountered in all of our travels.

We can’t rave about it enough!

GASTRONOMY GENIUS Just because you’re in the Maldives, at a 5-star resort in one of the most secluded spots in the Indian Ocean, doesn’t mean that the food is slacking. It’s very much the opposite at Vakkaru, where the culinary game is super strong and food is presented like art. World cuisines are represented through the resort’s four restaurants and two bars, offering the perfect environment for everyone to relax, unwind and indulge in chic island style. You can also enjoy handpicked fresh organic ingredients from their very own farm and sample flavours from Europe to Asia as you soak up the tranquil atmosphere with a table under the stars or dine amidst elegant, locally-inspired interiors. As true food connoisseurs, we can testify to the amazing dishes being plated up at each venue.

- Amaany Tranquil, bright and airy space to start the day; to experience flavour, comforting and nourishing, confident and refined offering an interactive presentation of international cuisines and inspired dishes accented with local tastes and tropical tones. Breakfast is a complete feast and we love that there are plenty of yummy Arabic delicacies making an appearance too; the shakshouka, foul and even the selection of cheese, were all excellent.

- Onu Asian Chic, Onu gave us our highlight dish of the entire trip: Mas Huni. It’s a typical Maldivian concoction, composed of tuna, onion, coconut, and chilli. All ingredients are finely chopped and mixed with the grated meat of the coconut. This dish is usually eaten with freshly baked flatbread and sweetened hot tea. Oh. Em. Gee. How something so simple can taste SO good is beyond our comprehension. All we’ll say is that Onu’s team had to make this at least another five times for us, during the trip! Food here is fresh, enthusiastic and committed to promoting South East Asian tastes.

Drawn from modern Vietnamese inspiration yet honouring the regions current and past influences.

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- Vakku Another mind-blowing venue; we will not be forgetting the outstanding Lobster Gelee appetiser anytime soon. Made up of crab salad, cauliflower cream, caviar, and 62-degree gold quail egg - it was, hands down, a Michelin Star-worthy dish. UNREAL. The atmosphere at Vakku was voguish beach luxury. Simple grilled fare and decked out, open-air, seating where you can hear the lapping waves, makes for a holistic gastronomic experience.

Two other great dishes to try from the a la carte are the Octopus Plate and the Seafood Basket - complete heaven for your palate.

- Isoletta Vibrant, inspired by the seaside, Italian fashioned with flair. A poolside piazza, relaxed and alive with style, serving contemporary

GLOBETROTTER •

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• GLOBETROTTER classic lunch and dinner, complete with communal dining table, lounging space and two seaters a la Milano. Cool and hip, enjoy a fashioned experience and authentic charm, uncluttered sophistication and whimsical design.

- Cabana Al fresco poolside lounge designed for classic comfort, creative inspiration and a relaxed ambiance. A comfortable enduring space to relax and unwind, enjoy a laid-back afternoon or predinner drink, the place to be after a day of island activities. Hosting modern classic beach club exclusivity.

- Lagoon Bar Ocean Oasis, serene or invigorating, relax, stay, sip and cherish a bucket list sunset venue to revive from noon until late. A stylish mature venue with lounging space, a sushi bar, tapas and Indian Ocean breezes. A romantic destination assured to allure timeless memories. Celebrate the ocean surrounded by premium collections and crisp vinos, 360-view and numerous shades of turquoise.

INNER SERENITY There are spas and then there’s Merana, where expert therapists at the luxurious overwater spa use the finest natural ingredients and latest treatments to pamper, hydrate and improve your skin as well as delivering a holistic approach to wellness that results in outer radiance and inner serenity. Featuring four couple’s treatment rooms with ocean views, eight single treatment rooms, a nail salon, spa boutique, and outdoor relaxation area, we’re warning you that this could very well raise the bar for all your future spa visits and you’ll forever be left with the feeling that nothing compares to this place. Of course, a 150-minute Signature Vakkaru Journey sounded like just what the doctor ordered.

Inspired by natural healing and using coconut infused products, there’s a haircare experience, a body scrub and finally, a heated coconut shell massage - another first for us. We were so incredibly relaxed and left the spa feeling uplifted, ready to explore more of the resort. If you’re someone who finds it difficult to relax, having the ocean right beneath you, is like floating on air. You’ll fall in love with this place!

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES Ultra-immersive experiences in an idyllic island paradise whether you are feeling energetic or prefer to relax.

In Baa Atoll, plankton blooms during the months of May to November attracting mantas by the hundreds, often accompanied by whale sharks feeding alongside. Year-round endless aquatic adventures include snorkeling on the house reef, sunset fishing, dolphin cruise, diving off many incredible sites close by..

The resort has a plethora of activities on both land and sea, and for all ages – enough to keep even the fussiest of travellers entertained. Here are just some of the best excursions and pastimes that we’d recommend: for an invigorating day spent out at sea, enjoy scuba diving with accredited PADI dive instructors from beginner to advanced level.

Alternatively, choose from a host of water sports, including 54

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snorkelling on the house reef and the unique “blue hole” within the lagoon, sunset fishing, dolphin cruise, whale shark spotting, manta ray snorkelling, sea bobbing, jet skiing, catamarans, kayaks windsurfing, kite surfing, paddle boats and expeditions with a marine biologist.

Exhilarating aqua escapades abound in the Maldives. From adventurous boat trips to catch a magnificent fish which the chef will prepare for your evening meal. Try parasailing with a breathtaking view of the stunning islands below.

When you are seeking more serene aqua activities you may choose to take a kayak and paddle around the protected lagoon or relax in the sun on the ocean with a private dhoni journey at sunset.

The resort also serves shisha and there’s live entertainment by a belly dancer too – for anyone who wants to amp up their stay and liven things up. For travellers seeking an intimate getaway, Vakkaru Madives is arguably one of the most desirable island destinations on the planet. ✤

GO: FLY WITH EMIRATES TO MALE VIA DUBAI. VISIT WWW. VAKKARUMALDIVES.COM OR CALL +960 660 7000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Bahraini Pearl Diver with a bone nose clip. 1962.

The region’s largest photographic archive.

Custom made original prints available. khalifashaheen

www.khalifashaheen.com

+973 17 593993

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• TRAVEL ADVERTORIAL

Photo by: Maju Jose

Photo by: Siby Joseph

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TRAVEL ADVERTORIAL •

SEASONS CHANGE For those of you eager to explore Oman’s Southern Dhofar region this summer, you’ll be thrilled to learn that Khareef season is well underway in Salalah and one of the most breathtaking times of the year in the Middle East. So, deciding where to stay during your visit is imperative to making the most of your holiday; enter Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, a 5-star luxury resort with every comfort and convenience you could ask for.

KHAREEF SEASON “Khareef,” a colloquial term meaning ‘autumn’ in Arabic, is when the rainy season comes to Salalah from June through September – bringing with it a beautiful blanket of green across the region.

The fascinating weather pattern is not to be missed, and one of the best places from which to appreciate the beautiful scenery and intrepid activities is Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara.

An award-winning resort with five-star services that include the only private pool villas in Salalah, it’s the perfect choice as a base when visiting during Khareef. Not only is it one of the most luxurious hotels to stay at, but in comparison to the hot and humid summer days in Bahrain, a visit to Salalah is the perfect antidote with its pleasant climate and varied landscape of emerald green coastal plains and mountains.

Led by the resort’s Salalah Guru, nature enthusiasts can venture into the verdant mountains and watch the region come to life with cascading waterfalls creating clear freshwater pools along with lush foliage and colourful wild flowers.

Various wildlife, even camels, usually spotted near the sea can be found lazing in Salalah’s mountains – making the most of the cooler temperature.

villas with or without pools, but our favourite would have to be the resort’s One-Bedroom Garden View Pool Villa. Here are just some of the great options, made to be enjoyed by couples, families, groups of friends and solo travellers all in search of an unforgettable Khareef adventure mixed with a little relaxation.

ONE BEDROOM POOL VILLAS No matter your preference of luxury, Anantara villas truly have it all. One can enjoy various views: the beach, lagoon, or a charming garden, which allows for complete privacy.

Your spacious villa boasts unique comforts unrivalled amongst resorts in Oman. Lounge in tranquility, with your personal Villa Host on hand to take care of everything for you, including dining reservations and local excursions. Your villa interior features a large bedroom and separate majlis lounge. The grand bathroom features a huge rain shower and soaking tub. You can even access your outdoor private pool from the bathroom. Your villa exterior is without a doubt a secluded haven of indulgence and you cannot help but enjoy the refreshing climate that this season has to bring.

Slip into your plunge pool and unwind, completely unseen, or drift into sleep on a poolside cabana.

After a day out exploring all that Khareef has to offer, retreat to your villa for an al fresco meal on your private pool terrace. Then head indoors for a movie and a bubble bath drawn by your Villa Host. This stunning villa - perfect for a family of four - will make your Khareef holiday an unforgettable experience.

Photo by: Maju Jose

LOCAL MEETS LUXURY There are many reasons why Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara should be your choice of accommodation.

The property draws on its local elements and surroundings, weaving Omani culture and Thai hospitality into its many exceptional services, its remarkable décor and, of course, its rooms and villas. The resort has fact magazine

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• TRAVEL ADVERTORIAL from near and far – served in the stylish dining room, or on the outside terrace beside the infinity pool. Breakfast is a brimming buffet of international favourites, healthy and exotic treats, live stations and bakery temptations. A la carte lunch dishes inspire a world of choice – from authentic Arabic dishes, to fiery Indian specials and contemporary western classics.

MEKONG The countries that border the Mekong River are renowned for their distinctive cuisines. Enjoy a voyage of discovery through Thailand, China and Vietnam – savouring age-old recipes and regional surprises. This is one of Anantara’s signature dining concepts that has grown popular at sister properties around the region too. We would highly recommend trying the Tom Yum Soup and tucking into the Mekong Sharing Platter!

TWO BEDROOM GARDEN VIEW POOL VILLA A generous retreat at this lush Salalah resort that blends the best of both worlds – quality time together and quiet spaces to cherish alone. Rise to a morning swim in your pool. Bask in your surroundings in the privacy of your courtyard. Gather for drinks served by your Villa Host in your lounge, then retire to en-suite havens. Accommodating up to four adults and two children, privacy is key as you get to pamper yourself with a secluded courtyard, private pool, two cabanas, outdoor dining set, separate indoor lounge and two bedrooms, each with a luxurious bathroom.

THREE BEDROOM ROYAL BEACH VILLA The royal villa boasts a prime position overlooking the Arabian Sea and lagoon. Step straight from your terrace on to a private white sand beach. Soak up the view of the mesmorising monsoon waves crashing ashore from your spacious terrace complete with 40sqm private pool. Share elegant meals together, taking full advantage of your beach villa’s indoor and outdoor dining areas, mini-kitchen and Villa Host service. Think ultimate sanctuary vibes and then times it by 100, as this 630sqm space comfortably accommodates six adults and three children.

DINING DEFINED Another great reason to make Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara your home during a trip to Salalah is down to one simple thing: food.

A simple thing that this resort does exceptionally well.

Indigenous ingredients, harvested from tropical plantations and the Arabian Sea allow visitors to explore exotic local specialities. And sample delights from East to West. Take a seat at one of these fabulous venues...

SAKALAN Translating as ‘The Land of Frankincense’, Sakalan’s open kitchens and culinary stations dish up cuisines 58

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AL MINA Al Mina captures the vibrant Mediterranean in a relaxed ambience. Lunch on Italian, Greek and Spanish classics – each crafted from the finest seasonal ingredients and seafood catches.

Choose your preferred spot – dining at a shoreline table, or lounging poolside. Evenings here feel fresh and sophisticated. Pair barbecue delights with a fine grape vintage. Unwind with shisha on a terrace.

There’s also the famous Anantara tailored private service: Dining

by Design, alongside cooking classes to tantalise your taste buds and teach you a few tips and tricks in the kitchen! Not to forget the resort’s Khareef Gourmet Picnics that they offer to guests who are spending the day looking at the many sites Oman has to offer. This comes with a choice of salads, sandwiches, mains and desserts, along with rental chairs, shades and carpets, and that is only the beginning.

THE SPA Enter a world of indulgence at Anantara Spa, with Oman’s ancient beauty rituals, traditional Thai massage and the 5,000-yearold techniques of Ayurveda on offer. Discover hammam rituals that detoxify and soothe in the only luxury hammam in the region. Explore the healing properties of frankincense and pomegranate amongst other signature treatments that specialise in indegiounous ingredients, including coconut and banana. Talk about being at one with nature... it’s never smelled so yummy!

There truly is nothing Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara hasn’t thought of to amplify the experience of drinking in the spectacular scenery of Oman. ✤ GO: GULF AIR WILL OPERATE DIRECT DAILY FLIGHTS FROM BAHRAIN TO SALALAH FROM JUNE 15 TO SEPTEMBER 14. VISIT WWW. GULFAIR.COM FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.

LET IT RAIN KHAREEF SPECIAL Escape the summer heat for a luxurious Khareef at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara with 25% savings on private pool villas and spa treatments. Dine on lavish buffet breakfasts and daily buffet or a la carte dinner at one of the restaurants of your choice during your stay. Lounge in your spacious private pool villa. Experience pure relaxation in our Anantara Spa complete with luxury hammam.

Marvel at the magnificent scenery of lush, green mountains and cascading waterfalls in Salalah – the ultimate summer destination.

Package includes: 25% savings on villa accommodation Daily buffet breakfast for two persons Daily buffet or à la carte for dinner for two persons at the restaurant of your choice 25% savings on spa treatments.

GO: CALL +968 2322 8222 OR VISIT WWW.SALALAH.ANANTARA.COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• HOSPITALITY Q&A

SAVVY LEADERSHIP

TAKING TRAVELLERS TO NEW HOSPITALIT Y HEIGHTS, FACT SITS DOWN FOR A CHAT WITH JUSTIN KIM, GENERAL MANAGER OF BAHRAIN’S BEAUTIFUL 5-STAR BOUTIQUE HOTEL, THE MERCHANT HOUSE…

Hi Justin! Tell us more about your hospitality journey in the lead up to being General Manager at The Merchant House, Bahrain?

I was born and raised in Korea and I was actually a uni student who studied biochemistry and did 26 months in the military service.

Then I took off to Europe on my first backpacking trip and came to realise that I really need to find something that I love for my career, and that was the main objective of my travels. During the trip I realised that I had to improve on my English skills and after this trip there were some destinations came up, one of them being Australia; so, I travelled to Adelaide in South Australia in 1997 and did my language course. One day I was sitting in a coffee shop with my class mates on a very happening street where a few very popular Italian restaurants were, and I saw on the opposite side and noticed the people who were serving the guests they were 60

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immaculately groomed with such happy faces and interacting with guests in such a friendly manner.

Being in Australia with the beautiful weather and everything, I thought this was wonderful and I wanted to find more of this, and that’s how I really started my journey into hospitality. I began my studies straight away and did my certificate three in hospitality and I moved to Le Cordon Bleu, a French school and I was the first student to enrol its management course. So, it all began in Australia and since then I have travelled to many different countries including Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Maldives, UAE, and now Bahrain.

During the more than 20 years that I’ve been in hospitality, I’ve worked with Starwood which is now Marriott, IHG and Banyan Tree and, I did a little bit of teaching in Sydney in a couple of hotel schools when I took a little gap, so that’s my background. I was always a bit more F&B, then Director of Operations at W Maldives, which led me to W Dubai – Al Habtoor City, and now I’m here.

What are The Merchant House Bahrain’s three most attractive unique selling points, in your opinion?

Number one has to be the location right next to Bab al Bahrain and the souk. I would like to say proudly that we’re located in the

HOSPITALITY Q&A •

was tested. Our design philosophy is “modern-classic” – it’s contemporary, tasteful but also timeless. It’s very elegant, but it’s also very fun – we have so many colours going on yet it doesn’t conflict, there’s such a pleasant contrast.

Number three is our service. Not only service that anybody can create – we have more than 20 per cent Bahrainis working with us in several departments and that’s something very special for our guests and us. Our biggest weapon and asset are our amazing employees and level of service – this is what we strongly believe as a company. From the pre-opening period we’ve embedded this philosophy and although I’m the driver of the ship, I cannot achieve great results without my team.

Being a General Manager means that you have responsibilities in all different areas of the hotel.

What is your working style – do you like to be in the office or do you find yourself going around the hotel more?

I spend a lot of time on the floor, we have a couple of meetings every day but the rest of the time I like to be meeting the clients and observing the team, and it is a small property so for me to go around and check in on things doesn’t take that much of my time. In regards to management style, I’m quite democratic, yet at certain critical times I could be autocratic to make swift decisions for urgent cases, but I also embrace the small team that I have and listening to suggestions.

centre of Manama and this is such a vital location for the country as well as the locals. We are part of the bigger vision and revamp project for the old down town of Manama and in keeping its heritage.

We’re working very closely with the tourism board and the Ministry of Culture and we’re honoured to be here in this nostalgic location for the locals. So many local visitors are impressed and touched by this old building which was built in 1967 and that we didn’t demolish it but instead worked with the old columns and pillars, and that has helped to create a sentimental connection with the local community – and we’re extremely grateful of our collaborations with local talents – for example, out of 196 art pieces, 80 per cent is done by Bahraini artists – both established and up & coming, work that we’ve collated from the annual art fairs. Also, the main partner in our spa is Green Bar, again, a local company that is working rigidly to produce products based on natural, organic ingredients.

Number two has to be our style and design. What we’ve tried to do – it’s been 15 months now since I joined – as a company, Campbell Gray Hotels, we’ve tried to make sure that every guest that walks in through our doors from the street, can feel and see our efforts, the style and the attention to details in design. We’ve attuned every aspect of the hotel to meet the needs of the 21st century, savvy traveller. We went through this meticulously during the pre-opening stage, where we even checked the level of feathers on each chair and sofa, and how comfortable they were. Lamps, tables, everything fact magazine

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• HOSPITALITY Q&A

Do you face any challenges in the current hospitality climate, and how have you tackled these?

The challenge for tourism is not only limited to us but it’s across the board and the whole industry. The whole country rely heavily on the weekend travellers from Saudi Arabia, so the tourism board has been working enormously hard to diversify the market and we are working closely with them to reach new audiences from the UK, Germany, France, Russia and many more. It’s great to be working on all these activations to expand the inbound travellers – and it seems to be working positively.

In regards to our food and beverage concepts, we try to work with the local community and cater to their tastes and needs. For example, we’re going to launch our afternoon tea soon and for this we’ve been liaising with a famous local chef called Mahmood Janahi to come up with a concept for a unique afternoon tea.

After working in eight different countries, what we are focusing here is enhancing the local connections and that’s what I’ve learned from my experience, that having a local link whether it is in recruitment, creating new concepts, or in your restaurants, without this you can’t build a strong connection with your local audience.

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HOSPITALITY Q&A •

For you personally, what keeps you excited about getting up every day and coming to work at The Merchant House as well as being in Bahrain?

Bahrain has a lot more of a residential feel to it. For example, when I was living in some other big cities, it didn’t feel like home. For me, Bahrain gives that homely feel; the whole set up here is very real.

From your home to more happening areas like Adliya or Juffair, Bahrain has soul.

Also, working with Bahrainis and meeting Bahrainis from all different sectors on a daily basis makes you feel like you’re a part of them and their community. Bahrainis have such a welcoming nature and warm hospitality culture. Here, dealing with the Bahraini employees is a joy, you feel like you are a part of their lives, and you truly want to help them advance and improve in their careers.

Share with us your main strategy and goal for The Merchant House over the next six to 12 months?

As a hotel, we were the first 5-star boutique property recognised by the Ministry of Tourism. Our aim was to establish and position ourselves as this; to educate our audience on what is actually a 5-star boutique hotel. In regards to this, we’ve won some prestigious awards already in this category showcasing that we bring a little more substance than the mega 5-star brands in the market that can give you a glamorous driveway with a grand entrance and the most lavish lobby, but they can’t give you that very personalised, warm, and attentive, yet not intrusive, service. As a General Manager for this distinct property, I want to continue to position The Merchant House as truly the first 5-star boutique property in Bahrain and educate the market, giving them an option that they can choose this unique place for a staycation, business travel, or family holiday.

Your food and beverage concepts are just stunning. You seem to have adopted the “less is more” approach – tell us what makes these offerings strong and special for Bahrain?

Again, when you design a hotel, understanding the needs of the savvy traveller who wants to stay in a boutique hotel – you ask yourself, do they need

the grand lobby with the red carpet? Do they expect seven or ten restaurants?

Understanding their needs and expectations is crucial. What they really need would be somewhere cosy, like a comfortable lobby lounge to have a nice cup of tea or read their books at The Library, where they can be relaxed. Then, breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in one very good restaurant with great service.

How many times do you go to a 5-star hotel and get a buffet set up where you have to keep getting up? It’s a feast but when you travel a lot, or if you’re having a relaxed stay, on a daily basis you would rather focus on your companies, emails, your favourite newspaper or magazine, so our concept for Indigo, which is Mediterranean, is a la minute; you order from the a la carte menu and it’s simply hassle-free.

We have everything the guest needs, it is just much quality over quantity. The chefs are revising the menus every three months to showcase different seasonal ingredients, sourced locally and internationally, so that our guests can enjoy something fresh and have a reason to come back.

In one sentence, describe for me the traveller who walks through the doors at The Merchant House…

A discerning individual who understands and appreciates the effort, quality and style of our boutique property.

Where do you see the hotel reaching in the future, what is the vision?

Right now, the first year of operations is all about establishing the property as Bahrain’s first 5-star boutique hotel and, of course, the flow through to the next few years is to maintain this. Our company, Campbell Gray Hotels may have plans to expand so hopefully we will see future developments in the country and in the region. ✤

GO: CALL 1667 1000 OR VISIT WWW. CAMPBELLGRAYHOTELS.COM/ MERCHANT-HOUSE-BAHRAIN/ FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR AUGUST…

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AlarmMon

Battery Life

If your smartphone is your alarm clock of choice, AlarmMon is what you need!

Waking you up with a daily dose of cute, the clock app features an adorable aesthetic of stickers and cartoon characters that will help start your day off right. Users can set a variety of alarm types, from noisy or quite alarms, to more involved alarms such as ones that incorporate characters and games to make sure you’re awake. AlarmMon also logs your alarm behaviour, recording how long it took you to turn off the alarm etc, to give you a more personalised experience.

Get the most out of your smartphone and keep it up and running with Battery Life. The app gives iPhone and iPad users a reasonable estimate of how much longer their battery’s charge will take them for a variety of activities, with estimated runtimes for phone calls, web browsing, or watching or listening to media files. In addition to offering estimated runtimes, the app will look at your battery status and depending on which iOS version you’re running, offer deeper battery stats such as capacity, voltage, and charge state.

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PLUGGED IN •

VERSATILE POWER While our smartphones have become our go-to devices for almost everything visual these days, there are still some things that our beloved gadgets just can’t do. Here’s where the Nikon COOLPIX B600 steps in…

A

new entry-level ultra zoom camera from Nikon, the COOLPIX B600 packs amazing zoom power—up to 60x optical zoom with Lens Shift Vibration Reduction (VR) to keep the shots sharp and steady. Whether you’re a photography pro or just enjoy capturing memories wherever you go, comfortable handling, simple menus and a Mode Dial make it easy to select the right photo or video settings for your situation and to apply creative filters and effects. Ideal for scenic vacation snaps, the camera’s optical zoom and Dynamic Fine Zoom lets you capture everything from vast landscapes to close-ups of distant subjects. Select Macro on the Mode Dial and get as close as approx. 0.4 in. from your subject and reveal hidden details. Providing beautiful results even in challenging light, Nikon’s advanced EXPEED image-processing engine and highperformance NIKKOR lens lets you take sharp, crisp images at any zoom range. With over 19 scene modes and 36 creative effects to choose from, getting the perfect shot is easier than ever. Create flattering portraits by applying effects such as Skin Softening and Foundation Makeup, or take your pick from 36 different artistic effects and filters to give your images a special look, while preserving your original photo. Apart from some stunning stills, The COOLPIX B600 also lets you capture

clear, steady Full HD 1080/60i (50i) videos with 4-Axis Hybrid VR as well as stereo audio. Create and share exciting video montages with Short Movie Show mode, which combines multiple videos into a single 30-second movie collage that can have Special Effects and four types of soundtracks. Giving you the most out of your camera, the Nikon’s SnapBridge 2.5 app unleashes new possibilities by connecting to your compatible smartphone or tablet. The built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) maintain a constant connection between the app and your camera, so each shot you take automatically transfers to your smartphone or tablet for sharing, editing with photo apps or sharing with your loved ones on social media.

Offering everything from impressive zooming features to good connectivity options and comfortable handling, the camera sparks your creativity while providing complete ease of use.

Highly efficient and budget friendly, the Nikon COOLPIX B600 is an ideal option if you want to transition from your smartphone camera into something more professional. It’s a YES from us! ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.NIKON-MEA.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• SOCIETY

#CINEPOLIS #SPIDERMAN #FAR #FROM #HOME #MOVIE #PREVIEW 66

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#EXTRAORDINARY #DINNER #TO #CELEBRATE #100 #YEARS #OF #BENTLEY

ISLAND RIDES •

THE ALL-NEW 2020

KIA TELLURIDE GT 8 SEATER KIA ANNOUNCES ITS ENTRY INTO THE MID-SIZED SUV SEGMENT WITH THE IMPRESSIVE TELLURIDE RANGE.

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ne of the best aspects of test-driving motor vehicles every month is that we at fact magazine get to experience a diverse range of automobiles, each with their own unique style and technological offerings. This month, thanks to the amazing team at A. A. Bin Hindi Group, we had the opportunity to try out the all-new Kia Telluride GT 8 seater. Having test-driven both the Kia Optima GT and the Kia Stinger GT in the past, we knew what this ever-strengthening brand was capable of producing and anticipated nothing less than an impressive experience.

The Telluride is the largest Kia ever produced and is classed as a mid-sized SUV. The vehicle’s exterior is reminiscent of the original, legendary SUVs with a big, bold and boxy presence that is accentuated by the various stylish exterior details, such as the eye-catching “tiger-nose” front grille as well as the front and rear, premium silver finish skid plates. The vehicle’s burly shoulders show off its go-anywhere, do-anything attitude which it does in style on its 20-inch, black sport finish, alloy wheels. The satin chrome window surround, rear spoiler, shark fin antenna and dual chrome exhaust tips all work together to create an impressive finish.

Once inside the spacious cabin, we immediately found the premium Nappa leather trim seats, to be very comfortable, whilst the driver’s seat Integrated Memory System (IMS) ensured our driving positions were perfect every time. An abundance of premium materials can be found throughout the interior as well as great attention to detail and an array of convenient features.

Besides from the aesthetically pleasing aspects of the interior as well as the sufficient space on offer for up to eight occupants as well as luggage, this vehicle houses an array of advanced technical components.

The infotainment’s large 10.5-inch colour touchscreen gives one easy access to and control over many of the vehicle’s functions, whilst the 630-watt, 10-speaker Harman/Kardon, surround sound audio system, ensured perfect sound quality for our favourite driving anthems. Apple Carplay and Android Auto are both available in this new GT SUV, along with wireless smartphone charging and no less than six USB charging ports. Yet another great interior feature is the dual-zone automatic climate control that ensures everyone is kept cool even during the harshest of summer months. All in all, we found the interior to be of a high standard and could not wait to take her out for a spin.

As we turned onto the tarmac, we could already hear the 3.8-litre V6 engine promising us an exciting ride. Capable of producing 291 hp at 6000 rpm, the GT has more than enough power and can reach 100 km/h in around 7.5 seconds. This strength combined with the bold and boxy feel of the vehicle, provides an imposing presence on the roads. The electronically controlled 8-speed transmission ensured our journey was a smooth one and we were most impressed by the amount of grip and control the vehicle provided. Even around tight corners, the handling of the Telluride proved to be more than adequate and we always felt in complete control.

What is perhaps the most notable aspect of this Kia model is the abundance of safety features included in the design. These include Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist-Rear (BCA-R), Blind Spot

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View Monitor (BVM), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) with Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Highway Driving Assist (HDA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Park Distance Warning – Forward and Reverse (PDW-F/R), a Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), Safe Exit Assist (SEA), Smart Cruise Control, with Stop and Go (SCC), seven airbags and much more. With all of these considerations towards your and your family’s well-being, one can relax and enjoy the kilometres rolling by, confident in the fact that the Telluride has been designed to protect all of its occupants.

Our final discussions over the GT 8 seater revealed that we all felt the Telluride offered a modern take on the classic SUV with a wealth of comfortable and convenient features, all designed to ensure a safe and memorable driving experience. In fact, we believe that Kia has produced an offering worthy of competing with all the family SUVs currently on the market, especially when one notes the competitive price tag. We encourage all those looking for a vehicle in the mid-sized SUV segment to book a testdrive and experience this brand-new Kia for themselves. ✤

ISLAND RIDES •

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AN ABUNDANCE OF PREMIUM MATERIALS CAN BE FOUND THROUGHOUT THE INTERIOR AS WELL AS GREAT ATTENTION TO DETAIL AND AN ARRAY OF CONVENIENT FEATURES.”

GO: VISIT WWW.KIA.BINHINDI.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 70

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BENTLEY MOTORS MARKS 100 YEARS BEHBEHANI BROTHERS W.L.L., A LEADER IN THE AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESS AND THE OFFICIAL RETAIL PARTNER OF BENTLEY BAHRAIN - THE BRITISH LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURER - MARKED 100 YEARS OF BENTLEY MOTORS AND JOINED THE GLOBAL CELEBRATIONS BY HOSTING AN EXTRAORDINARY GALA DINNER AT THE ROYAL GOLF CLUB

The highlight of the evening was the reveal of the Bentley EXP 100 GT, the exciting future of Grand Touring, to the world.

The gala dinner was attended by more than 100 guests which included: members of the founding families, Behbehani and Shirazi, Steven Hill, Group General Manager, Behbehani Brothers, Neil Harris, Area Sales Manager of Bentley Middle East, Bentley enthusiasts, and distinguished guests and members of the press.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr Hill said: “On behalf of the members of the Behbehani and Shirazi families, I would like to warmly congratulate the world-renowned Bentley Motors on achieving a significant milestone, marking 100 years of its operations. We are thrilled to embark on this new, very exciting chapter in strategic partnership with Bentley and are delighted to support the company in fulfilling its future goals and help drive business to its full potential in Bahrain.

“As one of the oldest automotive dealers in Bahrain, we are confident that our proven track-record in the automotive industry, our team of highly skilled professionals, our premium customer relations, our state-of the-art workshops, and our firstclass facilities will definitely deliver over-all satisfaction and a premium experience to all our Bentley customers,” he added.

To mark its centenary celebrations, in 2019, every car built at the factory in Crewe will have an exquisite package of handcrafted features which includes the careful repurposing of the first ever Bentley’s crankshaft into 100 pieces which are being fitted to 100 special edition Mulsanne W.O. Edition vehicles by Mulliner.

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with the latest reveal which shows off the stunning Bentley Continental GT No. 9 edition. Throughout this year, the company plans to roll-out a series of events featuring everything from extraordinary drives, to fabulous festivals, sophisticated parties and illustrious motor shows.

Behbehani Brothers was recently appointed as the official retail partner in Bahrain for Bentley Motors, to provide sales and aftersales services in the Kingdom. With Bentley Bahrain coming under the management of Behbehani Brothers, all new and preowned sales, service and warranty enquiries will be directed to Behbehani Brothers. Bentley customers will be able to access a dedicated team of sales and after-sales experts who will deliver the highest levels of customer care from Behbehani’s facilities in Sitra. The partnership between Bentley and Behbehani Brothers was active from 1st July 2019.✤ WWW.BEHBEHANI.COM.BH

MOTORING NEWS •

MG MOTOR TEAMS UP WITH LIVERPOOL FC In mid-July, at Liverpool Football Club's Anfield Stadium, MG Motor signed a contract with Liverpool FC that sees the Britishborn automotive brand become the world-famous football club’s official global partner.

With British sporting spirit in its DNA, MG Motor will further extend its status as an international brand through its collaboration with 2019 Champions League winners, Liverpool FC. As a brand that appeals to young, sporty and passionate individuals, this high-profile partnership will further boost MG’s popularity in the global market.

MG’s relationship with Liverpool FC started in 2016, when the brand became its official partner in China. After more than three years of cooperation, MG has engaged with huge audiences of fans across the world.

For more than 130 years, Liverpool FC has been at the forefront of the sport of football, with its squad of fast-paced, skillful stars.

Liverpool FC is one of the most successful football clubs in the

world, and in June this year won the 2019 Champions League, the sixth time the club has lifted Europe’s premier trophy.

Just like Liverpool FC, MG is a British-born brand with a strong legacy and impressive sporting heritage. It has achieved 43 world speed records, and continues to innovate to deliver the best performance. ✤ WWW.MG-BAHRAIN.COM

JAGUAR LAND ROVER BAHRAIN MARKETING WINS BIG Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover strongly positioned itself as the leading marketing specialist by once again receiving multiple awards at the acclaimed 2018/2019 Jaguar Land Rover MENA Retail Marketing Awards.

Jaguar Land Rover Bahrain received multiple awards for a fifth consecutive year, with its accomplishments coming in a variety of categories, despite facing tough competition from other Jaguar Land Rover retailers in the region. The incredibly consistent performance by Jaguar Land Rover Bahrain saw them receive 4 awards in 4 different categories: Best Customer Service Marketing, Best APPROVED Pre-owned Marketing, Best CRM Marketing and the Best Use of Social Media.

Upon receiving the awards, Ms. Hannane Laidouni, Marketing Manager at Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover, expressed her delight at the comprehensive victory and said: “Firstly, I would like to thank our senior management, led by our Managing Director, Mr. Majid Khalid Al Zayani and Mr. Stephen Lay, the General Manager of Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover, for their leadership qualities and guiding principles as if it were not for them, we would not be established in the position we are today. These awards serve as a reflection of the hard work that the entire team at Jaguar Land Rover Bahrain puts in day in and day out to ensure that Jaguar

and Land Rover remain the leading luxury automotive brands in the Kingdom.” ✤ WWW.LANDROVERBAHRAIN.COM fact magazine

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#DESSANGE'S #15TH #ANNIVERSARY

MCM: LIVE FREELY THROUGH NEON

Luxury leather brand, MCM has launched their Summer Travel Capsule Collection just in time to jet-set off to your vacation spot.

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FASHION FOCUS •

The bold neon shades in yellow, pink, orange and blue hues signify summer is definitely here! The pieces are perfect for a short staycation, relaxing beachside getaways and the ultimate summer bucket list destinations.

The range of bags, bracelets, beach bags, belts and carry-ons are suitable for teens, busy mums, jet-setting dads and chic singletons. So, are your bags packed and ready for take-off?

MCM is the only travel companion you need thanks to their high summer collection of bags and accessories to make your holiday destination and memories that much sunnier.

MCM is a luxury lifestyle goods and accessories brand founded in 1976 with an attitude defined by the cultural Zeitgeist and its German heritage with a focus on functional innovation, including the use of cutting-edge techniques. Today, through its association with music, art, travel and technology, MCM embodies the bold, rebellious and aspirational. Always with an eye on the disruptive, the driving force behind MCM centers on revolutionizing classic design with futuristic materials. Appealing to the 21st Century Global Nomad generation - dreamers, creatives and digital natives - MCM’s millennial and Gen Z audience is genderless, ageless, empowered and unconstrained by rules and boundaries.

Prepare for the season with bags available in a bright summery palette! ✤ GO: THE MCM SUMMER TRAVEL CAPSULE COLLECTION PIECES ARE NOW AVAILABLE IN STORES GLOBALLY. VISIT WWW.MCMWORLDWIDE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM MCM’S SS’19 COLLECTION...

THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN MCM’S STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 78

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BACK TO SCHOOL •

POTTERY BARN

GOES BACK TO SCHOOL POTTERY BARN KIDS HAS UNVEILED ITS ‘BACK-TO-SCHOOL’ COLLECTION WITH A CREATIVE LINE-UP OF MUST-HAVE SCHOOL ACCESSORIES – INCLUDING BACKPACKS, LUNCHBOXES AND WATER BOTTLES FOR THE LITTLE ONES. fact magazine

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opular collections include the ‘Disney Frozen’ collection featuring best-loved characters from the film, including Anna, Elsa, Hans and everyone’s favourite snowman Olaf.

For kids looking for a slightly different style, the Mackenzie backpacks are the perfect buy for the pre-kindergarten to the pre-teen years.

The backpacks come loaded with design details like ergonomic padding, side pockets and sturdy zippers – perfect for rough and tough usage. It also has a reinforced bottom and extra buckles for added convenience and safety.

There are also trendy, girly designs – including glow-in-the-dark dinosaurs, shiny metallic hearts and glittery designs and details that are hard to find anywhere else. For kids looking for action-packed school gear and for those fussy about their favourite film and comic book characters, there are Avengers, Justice League, Disney•Pixar Cars & Disney•Pixar TOY STORY backpacks to choose from, with favourite characters emblazoned on the front.

The perfect accompaniment to the Mackenzie backpack is the Mackenzie lunchbox which is durable and re-usable. Made of shatterresistant plastic, it is designed to resist stain and scratches – and keeps food fresh and healthy.

There is also a colourful lunch bag collection that comes in a host of colourful designs and cool patterns – so that kids will always look forward to their lunch. Pack healthy lunches & store snacks in healthy, more earth-friendly way with our durable, reusable food storage

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BACK TO SCHOOL •

that fits in perfectly in our lunch bags. These are available in sturdy plastic and stainless steel that is BPA- free, phthalatefree and dishwasher safe.

A backpack would be incomplete without a water bottle.

Pottery Barn Kids has a funky collection of bottles with leak-free push up lids that are easy for little hands to use, a removable straw and a locking lid to prevent spills and leaks. The bottles are fully insulated to retain warm or cold temperatures for up to six hours. ✤

GO: THE POTTERY BARN KIDS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE AT CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN AND THE AVENUES BAHRAIN. fact magazine

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#SUMMER #BASTILLE #DAY #BRUNCH #SOFITEL #BAHRAIN

CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

TIME TO THAI FACT digs into the culinary delights of Royal Thai at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa, and we’re officially being transported to new heights of flavour and presentation.

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or those who enjoy excellent Asian cuisine, Royal Thai should be a required destination. This elegant, attractive restaurant located at the eponymous Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa, presents outstanding Thai food accented by beautiful surroundings and polished, attentive service. Royal Thai elevates the presentation of Thai food far beyond your expectations and it is sure to become a restaurant you will want to visit again and again. After all, we are living proof of said statement.

Step inside and the visual impact continues from the grandeur of The Gulf Hotel’s lobby. The inspiring Pagoda style resturant with cream, gold and mocha are the main colours throughout creating a soothing, inviting atmosphere to this Fine Dining outlet and its bountiful sensory components.

Just as inviting as the surroundings are the gracious hostesses, who welcome you in traditional Thai style.

Hopefully you have a reservation before arriving here, as the restaurant is typically quite busy, especially on Fridays during their popular promotion of Thai Friday Nights where you can indulge in abundant Thai delicacies for BD15 with two glasses of vino. The pampering continues as you are led to your table, seated and brought menus by one of the helpful and friendly staff members.

Food options present most of the familiar Thai dishes diners would know, such as curries, Pad Thai, and Tom Yum Soup, but soon you will discover that the presentation and flavours are anything but ordinary.

Chef Wasanee Bodeera has brought her renowned culinary prowess to Bahrain boasting extensive experience in both traditional and modern Thai Cuisines. It is important to add that Chef Wasanee has also been involved in developing some of the world’s most famous hotels relating to their respective Thai restaurants, and it is evident to see throughout every dish that leaves the kitchen and is served here.

The assortment of appetisers is perfect for sharing

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

between two or more and will typically include their delicious crispy calamari, chicken satay, and crispy spring rolls. The assortment of textures and tastes, spicy and sweet, is an excellent way to wake up the palate.

For entrees, making a selection can be much more difficult. Beyond the traditional curries, which are excellent, there are a variety of Chef Selections and speciality curries from which to choose. Their Masamman Kea - slow simmered lamb shank - is a great choice for meat lovers as they play homage to Bahraini influence with delicately placed fusion techniques. These meaty morsels are cooked perfectly to your temperature request, and served with potatoes in aromatic peanuts and a delectable coconut reduction. This proved to be a personal favourite of ours, as we slurped up the sauce that surrounded it, showcasing itself as a worthy mouthwatering contender.

Their Koong Phad Preaw Wan - Arabian prawn wokfried in a sweet and sour sauce - is beautiful, with large sautéed jumbo shrimp, rice stick noodles, eggs, peanuts and other accents presented in a somewhat “deconstructed” style, so you can taste each flavour as you go along your plate.

Although portions at Royal Thai are generous, especially if you have already enjoyed an appetiser, getting a side dish of one of their excellent fried rices is recommended - we strongly suggest their Khao Phad Sapparod Koon which is served in a pineapple.

Our carb game is strong after all! You’ll be pleased to learn that it is not only delicious, with its cashew nut, green peas and raisins, but it goes well with many of the restaurant’s main courses. Desserts are tempting, but there was only one true contender as far as we were concerned and that HAD to be their Mango and Sticky Rice plethora of goodness, which never fails to deliver a pleasing mix of flavours. We would be hard pressed to recommend another authentic Thai experience that ticks all of our boxes the way that Royal Thai does. Take our word for it and book your table today. ✤

THAI FRIDAY NIGHTS AT ROYAL THAI Enjoy Thai culinary nights with live cooking counters serving papaya salad, satays, carvings and a selection of main courses.

Price: BD 15 net per person inclusive of two selected beverages.

GO: FOLLOW @THEGULFHOTELBAHRAIN / @ROYALTHAIBAHRAIN ON INSTAGRAM. CALL 1771 3000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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#PERU #FIESTAS #PATRIAS #AT #TAPAS #BAR #& #RESTAURANT

DINING FOCUS •

THE CHOICE IS YOURS Friday’s have well and truly had their brunch game upped with The Weekend Brunch Extravaganza at the ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands. FACT well and truly digs in and reveals all... fact magazine

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hoices, choices, choices…. there couldn’t be a more apt name for this restaurant on account of well, the ‘choices’ on offer. As we approached the ART Rotana Hotel, the web-like exterior of woven steel is breathtaking and makes a bold statement for your experience here.

Whether a staying guest, a casual diner or visitor to the Friday Brunch, as I was, you cannot fail to stand for a moment in awe as modern art meets engineering at its best. The hotel boasts impressive views of the Arabian Gulf combined with state-of-the-art facilities and a veritable louvre of design pieces throughout. Had I not been eager to sample the buffet I could have idled away the afternoon meandering through the various lounges and public spaces.

Choices Restaurant plays host to The Weekend Brunch Extravaganza where those with a voracious appetite and love of multiplicity will find great satisfaction.

The setting is contemporary and modish with dashing grey and black furniture punctuated with explosions of citrus greens and oranges which are refreshing and vivid. The views afforded by the floorto-ceiling windows and the option of outdoor dining makes it the perfect brunch base. The atmosphere is relaxed and the Latin rhythms and tunes of Soneando, the resident band, complement this perfectly.

The vast selection of soups, handcrafted baked goods and crisp salads cater for those wishing for something lighter, healthier or simply something to whet their appetite. If you’re like us and you’re all about the carb life you should pop over to their Pasta station - after all, ‘A day without love is like pasta without sauce’.

The Italian prowess doesn’t stop their as they serve up a dedicated Crostini station that we devoured as our starting appetiser, consisting of small slices of a vast selection of toasted bread and toppings. It wasn’t long until I followed the familiar aroma of masala spices to the corner dedicated to all things Asian.

It boasted pots of creamy curries and delicately spiced meats and fish. The restaurant boasts a ‘children’s zone’ where younger diners can work up an appetite and expand their minds before

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being tempted to try the freshly baked pizzas and global delicacies.

The carnivorous carnival of meat drawing you towards the roast station is without a doubt the most spectacular centerpiece.

My amiable host explained that the chefs are happy to prepare many cuts to your own exacting standards before serving you at your table. In addition to this there are a variety of freshly prepared, sumptuous roasts loaded onto white platters for you to devour at your leisure over at the Art Special section. Beef Brisket, Lamb Leg, Salon, Turkey and Duck can all be found here ready for you to salivate over. The fresh fish and crustacea is plentiful and can also be grilled to order. Not to be missed is there Fish and Chips station, although you can opt to attend their Shrimp and Chips station for an alternate bounty from the sea, if you so wish. The fact they are presented in nifty cones brings us nostalgic memories from our seaside visits in the UK showcases itself as an added bonus. Iced platters of crab, black mussels,calamari, sushi and other seafood delights can be found close by.

Art Rotana replenish their stations ‘on-

DINING FOCUS •

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Choices Restaurant plays host to The Weekend Brunch Extravaganza where those with a voracious appetite and love of multiplicity will find great satisfaction.”

the-reg’, so you can be sure that you receive only the freshest of cuisine.

The plethora of styles of cuisine is also extended to the choice of desserts, mocktails and fruity artisanal elixirs served to complement every dish. The brunch experience at ART Rotana is as much a feast for the eyes as it is the appetite. No limits apply at Choices whether it be the age or the range of clientele or the vast array of absolute exquisite fare. ✤ ✤

GO: FRIDAY BRUNCH IS SERVED FROM 12.30PM TO 4PM IN CHOICES RESTAURANT, ART ROTANA HOTEL AND RESORT, AMWAJ ISLANDS. PRICED AT BD36 NET INCLUSIVE OF HOUSE BEVERAGES AND SELECTED DRINKS. BD25 FOR THE SOFT DRINKS PACKAGE. CALL 1600 0111 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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#2019 #FORMULA #AUSTRIA #GRAND #PRIX #SCREENING #AT #CHAISE #CAFE

FOODIE CORNER •

TARAB THURSDAYS When it comes to experiencing authentic Arabic food and live music in one, there’s one place that gets it right to start off your weekend. Enter Al Waha at Elite Seef Residence & Hotel… fact magazine

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oing into the weekend, we’re always on the lookout for relaxed dining experiences to help us wind down and get ready to enjoy time well spent with our loved ones. It seems that the culinary team over at Elite Seef Residence also have the same idea.

Set besides the lively and casual poolside of the hotel, an airy outdoor seating area entices us.

There are plenty of air-con fixtures that, once turned on, really help to ease the heat. Twinkling fairy lights adorn the few lush trees and bright night-lights create a party-inspired vibe. There are families perched on loungers and groups of friends sat around the tables, chatting away and really relaxing into the weekend mood.

It’s comfortable and inviting, and we take a seat for a meal filled with our favourites. First thing’s first, we order orange juice which arrives in a lovely makeshift barrel holder, which is a nice touch. The drink is freshly squeezed and smooth to taste – there’s no tanginess – this already sets us in a good mood for what’s to come.

A traditional Arabic Buffet is waiting to be devoured.

From fresh salads and mezze including everything from olives to hummous and in between, we’d recommend starting with something light and easing into the food journey. The mains are of a good standard, highlighting some of the best that Arabic food has to offer. Our favourites included the Chicken Machboos with juicy, chunky pieces of chicken and delicious rice to accompany. Other standouts included the simple yet appealing pasta, and the chicken tikka. But, most of all, the best thing about the feast had to be the live grills.

Ask the waiter to bring you a plate of mixed grills and get ready for a carnivorous treat. The beef kebaband tikka is luscious - every meat lover’s dream. The many different chicken concoctions including kebab, roast-style pieces and more are all cooked perfectly with a smoky flavour. We’re super full and ready for another fresh OJ. There is also doner, rotating on a spit, ready to be devoured!

Adding to the lovely ambience is a live Arabic duo, performing melodic tunes and providing an uplifting environment for guests. There’s a very calm and welcoming atmosphere that is made all the more amazing with the friendly and efficient service of the staff, who are at hand to help with every request.

As far as themed dining goes, Tarab Night at Al Waha is as authentic as it gets. The food celebrates the best of Arabic cuisine, the entertainment is apt and talented, and the coming together of all these elements fits perfectly. We can’t think of a better way to start the weekend than this. ✤ 94

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FOODIE CORNER •

GO: TARAB THURSDAYS TAKES PLACE AT AL WAHA, ELITE SEEF RESIDENCE FROM 8PM TO MIDNIGHT. PRICED AT BD10 NET WITH SOFT DRINKS. CALL 1758 3388 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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PEP TALK •

You Are What You Eat Yvonne Cole is a Personal Trainer and believes that when you eat clean, train hard and trust the process, your consistency and patience pays off.

When you’ve finally had enough and made that big life changing decision that this is the moment you’re going to embark on a new eating regime, you need to clear the house of all the unhealthy foods or, without a doubt, you will go back to your old habits.

I’ve lost count of the amount of times I’ve said to clients that you have to get rid of all the processed foods and junk but, unfortunately, most of the time this advice falls on deaf ears so, come assessment time, the tape measure and scales tell the story they don’t want to hear.

It is so important that you sit down and make a plan, whether it be on your laptop, smartphone or with paper and pen; plan your meals for every single day.

Most people find it difficult to buy healthy food so meal planning is the perfect solution.

Planning your meals makes it very clear what you need to buy when you’re going shopping as you would’ve already chosen healthy recipes so all you need to do is make a list of all the ingredients that you need.

There are many advantages to meal planning, it helps you manage your time better, eliminates the stress of last-minute food options, saves you money and best of all, it helps you avoid unhealthy choices. ✤

#WOMEN #POWER #SUMMIT #2019 #PRESS #CONFERENCE

GO: Email ymcfitness@gmail.com or call 3466 0453 for more information. fact magazine

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ISLAND INSIDER

Ihab Bajjas Hotel Manager, Mercure Grand Hotel Seef

The Mercure Grand Hotel Seef has paved a reputable way for itself.

What’s your vision for the hotel during your management?

Our goal is to build up on the heritage and the reputation the hotel has gained among the local and international guests. We seek to show the exceptional Middle Eastern hospitality, and enhance the service we provide to fit all different types of guests.

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Share with us your favourite cultural hotspot in Bahrain and why it is special to you...

I have had the pleasure to go to Bab Al Bahrain and see what true Bahraini culture has to offer, it was a great experience with amazing food and a warm atmosphere that was very nostalgic for me and took me back in time.

Tell us some of your foreseeable future goals with Mercure Grand Hotel Seef...

We are seeking to show the great potential of such a property, with having a repositioning of the hotel in the local market, and showing the hotel in a different, more chic and enhanced way that will surprise our guests. We aim to improve the Food & Beverage concepts in the hotel and evolve them, and present the hotel as a more comfortable family spot for the local Bahraini family, since we have the right product and the right time.

Memories are the one gift you give to yourself.

Unlock a world of summer adventure and embrace the best our luxury beachfront resort has to offer. Enjoy up to 25% savings on luxurious accommodations, and complimentary breakfast. For reservations, call (+973) 1758 0000 or visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain.

Valid until September 30, 2019 and is subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer including FHR, Centurion, Residence Owners and Club Members and is not applicable for Rewards redemption. Advance reservations are required and must be booked one day in advance; rates do not apply to groups. Rates listed are per room, per night and exclusive of taxes, gratuities and other charges unless otherwise noted. Void where prohibited. Š 2019 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

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