FACT Bahrain August 2021 by Fact ME

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SUMMER ADVENTURES With an array of experiences for you and your family to enjoy, summer vacations at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay are designed to create ever lasting memories. Stay with us 1711 5000 | fourseasons.com/bahrain 2

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08 23 36 On The Beach

Organised & Optimised

On The Road

CONTENTS

60 84 96

Food Glorious Food

Art in Focus

Matter of Fact

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• THE EDITOR

Time Marches On

“

“For every minute spent organising, an hour is earned.”

elcome to the August edition and, as we suffer fire from the sky, there’s no doubt that we’re in the middle of high summer, which you’ll spot from our round-up of kids’ summer camps (p20) and the super-brights in our fashion pages (p90).

However, August is also the time when we start thinking about what’s coming next. I don’t know about you, but I always return from the holidays (even if it’s only a short break staycation) with the best of intentions to get organised, sort out my paperwork and wardrobe and, just generally, give my life a bit of a reboot. If you’re the same, then this month’s cover story (p23) is for you. Whether it’s decluttering, getting ready for the new school term, whether that be in class or learning remotely, or even preparing to start a new job, we have expert tips for every occasion – now all I need to do is listen to their advice. Due to popular demand, we’re keeping our extended motoring section (p36) with more test drives and more news. You asked, we responded. Enjoy. From new models to new restaurants, we checked out three new venues and a favourite seafood night. And with half the office on holiday, I was actually unchained from my desk to do some of the sampling. I’m sure you’ll see how much I enjoyed myself – this might have to become a regular thing… hint, hint. Elsewhere you’ll find our regular round-ups of books, movies, new products and more. And there’s a chance to get acquainted with Mariam Alnoaimi, winner of the prestigious Al Dana Prize at the 47th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition. She’s certainly one to watch for the future.

FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition • AUGUST 2021 VOLUME 14, ISSUE 11

DIRECTOR OMAR SHAHEEN PUBLISHER RAMI KHALIL (rami@fact-magazine.com) EDITOR LIZ O’REILLY (editorial@fact-magazine.com) DIGITAL EDITOR SARA WADDAH SALES MANAGER RACHEL NAFEH ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN GRAPHIC DESIGNER OMNIA ELAMIR PHOTOGRAPHY SACHAN CHANDRAN CONTRIBUTORS CECILIA LERMEN GARETH WOODS LINDSEY STEENKAMP PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0131 E-mail: rami@nansgroup.com PRINTED BY DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ

I hope you enjoy this month’s mag and, just remember, it’s August, by the end of the month it’s all downhill back to the gorgeous cooler months we all adore. Hang on in there. Phew!

Liz O’Reilly Editor editorial@fact-magazine.com

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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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Combining all three editions of FACT (Bahrain, Dubai, Abu Dhabi), our Instagram account is a onestop shop for details on giveaways, competitions, local events, must-know happenings, behind-thescenes photos, and more. So much more.

Local talent, arts, culture, fashion, dining, and all the coolest events in the country – it’s all here alongside tech updates, travel guides, motoring news, and more. Get your copy of FACT Bahrain in local supermarkets now!

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Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings, and everything we’re getting up to in preparation for the monthly magazine – all for our readers, of course!

“

“Getting organised is a sign of self-respect.” Gabrielle Bernstein

ISSUU.COM FACT Bahrain 70,342 reads of the July issue If you need your FACT fix circa now, flick through our issues online on issuu.com for all the best features, interviews, profiles, and listings across food, art, culture, travel, technology, and more in Bahrain.

OUR FAVE FEATURE • Organised & Optimised P23 •

#FACTMAGAZINE #FACTMIDDLEEAST #FOODARTSCULTURETRAVEL #THEONLYWAYISFACT 6

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• FACT FINDS

LIVE THE HIGH LIFE The latest launch from The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain allows you to experience the ultimate in privacy and luxury at your own private beach.

aking the most of the hotel’s exclusive private island, Ta Plage Privèe – which literally translates as ‘your private beach’ – sits on the resort’s pristine white sands with waves gently lapping at the shore and features an air conditioned tent for dining and relaxing away from the summer heat. The brainchild of General Manager, Bernard de Villèle, the aim is to recreate the atmosphere of a private beach on the French Riviera or the Caribbean. Welcoming invited guests to the official opening, he commented: “Luxury, privacy, tranquility and seclusion has never been more important to our valued guests and Ta Plage Privèe certainly offers this in abundance. With an air-conditioned private tent where you can relax, along with a dedicated massage room and your very own exclusive beach, 8

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it is a haven of tropical peace and tranquility, with palm trees swaying in the breeze and the rhythmic sounds of the waves.” Ta Plage Privèe is available through reservations only and includes soft drinks, fresh juices, Nespresso coffee, a fruit basket, assorted mezze for up to six people and a bouquet of fresh flowers. A supplement package includes a barbecue lunch for up to six diners and a 30-minute spa treatment for two. Ta Plage Privè is also available for private events for up to 12 guests. ✤

GO: CALL ROCHELLE ON 1758 6605, ANGELA ON 1758 6712 OR THE HOTEL DIRECTLY ON 1758 0000 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

Moments are better when we share them together.

Come together with the family and get your second room at half the price for children aged 16 and under at the time of stay. For reservations, call +973 1758 0000 or visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain.

Starting from BHD 110++, offer is applicable on Deluxe Room, Club Room and Club Suite reservations only, valid until December 31, 2021. Offer is subject to availability, exclusive of taxes, gratuities, fees and other charges; does not apply to groups; cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion and is not applicable for Rewards redemption. Advance reservations are required. No refund or credit for unused portion. Void where prohibited. ©2021 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. fact magazine

• LISTEN UP

OM THE BEACH Channel the energy of the full moon with new monthly yoga sessions at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. The private island retreat’s resident yoga instructor, Aneesh Ramankutty, will be guiding the yoga gatherings which begin after dusk to make the most of the moon’s soothing energy. Enliven and relax the body with a blend of gentle Hatha and Chandra Namaskar yoga sequences, which provide a strong, effective workout while remaining grounded in the core mindfulness of practising yoga. Practitioners ranging from absolute beginners to experts are invited to join Aneesh in bowing to the moon's soothing lunar energy as a way of harnessing nature’s energies and releasing what no longer serves you. And the experience and atmosphere of practising this ancient healing and relaxing art under the light of the full moon is sure to leave you refreshed and enlivened. Classes will take place either at the lush lawn area or the beach, between 7.30pm and 8.30pm on the following full moon dates in 2021: • Sunday, August 22 • Monday, September 20 • Wednesday, October 20 • Friday, November 19 • Sunday, December 19 Sessions cost BD6 for spa members and BD9 for outside guests. ✤ 10

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Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay invites guests to cast away on an island retreat with the newly launched day-use offer, which provides all the luxuries of a resort getaway for the day. Retreat to the privacy of your very own Deluxe Room and enjoy all the luxurious amenities and resort facilities, including two expansive temperaturecontrolled outdoor pools, the heated indoor spa pool, the kids’ waterpark, and a private white sand beach wrapped around the island’s southern sun-drenched shore. An outstanding array of island experiences awaits and the offer is available at BD65, for two adults and two children, and is valid from 9am to 6pm on weekdays only.

GO: CALL 1711 5000 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

GO: CALL 1711 5045 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• LISTEN UP

THE FUN RETURNS Enjoy special staycation and dining offers at one of the Kingdom’s leading five-star luxury resorts when you head to Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa this summer. Sofitel Bahrain is well known as a wonderland of relaxation that allows its guests to escape to an idyllic setting away from the bustle of city life. Remaining true to its chic gastronomic reputation, the hotel is packed with exciting promotions throughout August. If you’ve missed Bahrain’s favourite brunch scene. It’s time to ramp up your weekend routine as Sofitel Bahrain’s iconic Grand Friday Brunch returns every Friday, with a special Hawaiian summer theme on August 6, 13 and 20 and a unique Face Mask-Querade themed brunch on August 27. You’ll be in the company of fabulously fashionable crowds, with great live entertainment and, of course, an assortment of scrumptious dishes from around the world for BD36 net, inclusive of selected beverages. Or savour Rivaaj’s new flavourful menu and its top-notch gastronomic offerings at the hotel’s multi award-winning Indian restaurant. Tuck into speciality dishes and unique recipes prepared by Chef Javed Qureshi, destined to be a big hit amongst guests and food critics alike. Celebrate the 74th Indian Independence Day on August 15 at Rivaaj, and pay only 74% of your bill! Let Maison Sushi ensconce you in its dreamy environs with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf combined with a delightful seafood and sushi-inspired degustation set menu, crafted with passion by Chef Myo. Every Thursday, 12

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Sofitel Bahrain’s newest Japanese outlet offers top-class live entertainment at its Seafood & Sushi Night, starting from BD25 net. Finally, discover a reimagined gastronomic concept with Sofitel Bahrain’s new Le Garden Brunch du Soir and experience a delightful evening affair full of savoury international dishes for everyone to enjoy under the starry skies of Zallaq. Now hosted every Thursday and Friday, due to popular demand, prices start from BD25 net. To further encourage the discovery of pure euphoria at Sofitel Bahrain, the resort has extended the popular Bahrain Residents Staycation Offer, exclusively for all Bahraini residents holding a valid CPR. Offers start from only BD65 net for an exquisite Luxury Room featuring glorious sea views with breakfast for two. Or discover curated family retreats throughout the summer season with Prestige Suite offers starting from BD110 net, plus complimentary breakfast for two and direct access to the glittering, sandy beach. ✤

GO: CALL 1763 6363 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS ON ROOM OFFERS, OR 3888 5789 FOR RESTAURANT RESERVATIONS.

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• LISTEN UP

READ ALL ABOUT IT Get the lowdown on Too Dumb For Your Guns, the latest release from OFFtrack, and learn all about the band and their music. Band founder Sumit Sharma tells us: “OFFtrack is an alternative-electronic outfit from Bahrain. Variously influenced by the sounds of the post-punk era crossed with trip hop classics. The production is coated in a dystopian mist, full of scattered drum patterns with melodic basslines, ear-worm synths and lush guitar harmonies.” The band was formed in mid-2019 by Sumit, but all the members were already an active part of the music scene in Bahrain. He continues: “It took me a long time to find this imperfect bunch, who understood the vision and had similar ideas when it came to music. We wanted to take each other's music background and distort it to the point where boundaries of mental and physical capabilities start to blur out.” Ryan was the first to join, on bass, he is a natural when it comes to music. Sara joined later on vocals, and really took the songs to another level. Sean was the last one to come on board, on guitars, and he brought that simplicity in complex patterns the four wanted to achieve. “I have been writing songs over a few years now but could never gather courage or find a strong enough reason to take them public, until we formed OFFtrack,” says Sumit. “The idea [for this release] came into my head when I clicked a picture of a soldier praying next to the tank he was in charge of, I guess. That picture has so many contradictions. We often pray for wellness and peace. And that made me 14

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think that killing on command is just a job for him. So, does he love what he does or is he like the rest of us? “What kind of personality traits does one need to be able to do this? And what's the relevance of the most asked question in interviews when hiring ‘Where do you see yourself in five years?’ Does he even have the next five years? “And the idea emerged that even the one who kills is too dumb to understand the ulterior motives of those in power.” Describing the issues faced while recording during the pandemic, Sumit explains: “Recording was a bit of a challenge. There was too much back-and-forth. We tried to record one person at a time. We hardly met as a full band. Everything was done remotely. After we were done recording the song, it was a challenge to find a mixing engineer, who could understand the sound and do justice to it. Luckily we found Vishnu Pillai who mixed and mastered the sound.” Check out the music and, if you like it, you’ll be glad to hear that OFFtrack are working on a full-length album expected to be out later in the year. ✤

GO: LISTEN @HTTPS://LINKTR.EE/OFFTRACK_ OR WATCH THE VIDEO @HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/ WATCH?V=DGQXR6GCSOA

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• LISTEN UP

LESS IS MORE There are plenty of design studios in Bahrain, so why is this one making history? Limefish is a visual design studio based in Bahrain, providing high-end visual design solutions such as: visual identity, UI/UX design, video editing and motion graphics. Founded by Executive Director Yonis Attiya in 2015, it started as a freelance design business with just Yonis and has grown to be a fully fledged studio employing eight Bahrainis. So far, so normal, right? But the company recently took the decision to reduce hours to work a four-day week – a system that has been gaining traction in Europe but which is, so far, untapped in Bahrain with Limefish being the first to dip its toes in the water. Yonis explains: “At the Eid al-Fitr holiday, we had Sunday off and it was a four-day week. On that week I noticed that my team had so many achievements, at the same time I was looking for ways to reduce the team’s stress. I did some research and found some studies indicating the benefits of a four-day work week. So decided to try it out for two months. Just a trial to see how it would work out.” The experiment started in mid-May and Yonis was surprised 16

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and delighted with the results. He says: “Honestly, I didn’t expect the results we got. Because team members got an extra day off at the weekend, they had the chance to work on their personal projects, hobbies and spend more time with their families. Because of that, team mental health got much better, everyone is smiling and laughing in the office, the positive vibe is carried throughout the work week. “As a result, the productivity became much better, the team became more creative and better at solving problems and coming up with creative concepts. The four-day week worked well for us because we value quality of work over the quantity.” And that level of success means the experiment is here to stay. We wonder if other businesses will follow suit once working from home begins to ease as pandemic restrictions are lifted. ✤

GO: CALL 6661 7217 TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LIMEFISH.

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• LISTEN UP

AN EYE ON THE STREETS Catch it while you can. See the latest exhibition from one of Bahrain’s favourite creatives, Anil Sharma. For as long as he can remember, Anil Sharma has been fascinated by landscapes and the interplay between nature and the built environment. More often than not, he can be found with paintbrush in hand on a seemingly uninspiring street corner or crouched at a seldom visited waterfront, capturing in watercolour the beauty he sees before him, a beauty that many may walk past without a second glance. While other subject matter – portraiture and still life – are something he also enjoys, the complex relationship between the human and natural world is a constant source of inspiration for Anil, pushing the boundaries of his use of colour and light to create visual impact and capture the essence of ever-changing land and seascapes. The painter, who came to Bahrain from India in 2018, has more than 25 years of experience, he is a mentor and coach for artists of all ages locally, helping them to achieve their fullest potential. He has also been Art Director of Paint & Palette Art Studio in Bahrain. He says: “After coming to Bahrain I was affected and inspired by its nature and beauty and the climate, which is totally different from India. Skyscraper buildings, sea, winds, palm trees and culture… so wherever and 18

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whenever I visited different parts of the city, I painted those areas. My moto was to receive from nature and return back to our society.” Anil’s island-inspired works are on show in his latest solo exhibition ‘Bahrain Boulevard’, which is open at Harbour Gate, Bahrain financial Harbour, until August 8. He adds: “Increasingly, I am drawn to study the interface between the ancient and modern in Bahrain. For example, we see skyscrapers making bold, dramatic statements across natural seascapes that predictably change with the ebb and flow of the tide, while a traditional dhow cuts a strikingly small, yet powerful, image as it gently traverses a scene. As I explore the island on foot with my paints always close by, I am motivated to capture these images on canvas as a time capsule of the then juxtaposed with the now – I have come to adore these Bahraini Boulevards which form the basis of this exhibition.” ✤

GO: CALL 3605 0965 OR EMAIL ARTBYANIL@GMAIL. COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

BRITISH SCHOOL OF BAHRAIN

SUMMER FUN For those who are spending all or part of the summer in Bahrain, summer camps are an invaluable resource to keep the youngsters busy with interesting and exciting things to do. We’ve rounded up a few of the best.

Various options from summer gymnastics to swimming, various musical instruments, basketball, robotics and coding, Masterchef cooking, circus skills and much more for a range of ages. Classes running through to August 19. GO: CALL 1761 0973, 1761 0899 OR 1761 0943 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION. ETON HOUSE Summer Camp running until August 12 for little ones aged 18 months to seven years. There are themed weeks including magic,

BAHRAIN BALLET CENTRE

books and movie characters and sun, see and sand and sessions

Dance & Drama Workshop

running from 8am to 12pm at Eton House pre-school campus in

Music, dance and drama come together in this four-week

Hamala. The price is BD10 per day and places are limited.

summer special workshop with Malwina! Running throughout

GO: CALL 1749 0333 OR 3360 4244 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

August, participants, both kids, aged six and up, and adults, will work on individual and group creations, learn to perform in front

LIFE-FIT

of an audience and experience creating movement through

Summer Camp at Riffa Views International School

improvisation. Classes run from 10am to 12pm on Saturdays and

Keeping

spaces are limited.

environment is a sports camp for boys and girls aged six to 14

kids

active

indoors

temperature-controlled

years. Activities include: football, basketball, volleyball, handball, Dance & Creative Camp at Barbar Studio

dodgeball, swimming, fitness, badminton, cricket, rounders,

Running throughout August for children aged five to 13 years,

taekwondo skills and swim classes.

activities include: creative dance, arts and crafts, singing and music,

For the younger children there’s KG CAMP – for kids from five

acting and scriptwriting, weekly competitions, virtual tours and

years – offering mini sports, arts and crafts, fun fit, gymnastic skills,

popcorn and movie time.

movement and dance and swim classes.

Camp runs Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 12pm and pre-

Timings vary and class sizes are limited.

booking is required as spaces are limited.

GO: CALL 1769 2424 OR WHATSAPP 3300 1261 FOR MORE

GO: CALL 1769 3232 OR 3371 9180 FOR MORE INFORMATION

INFORMATION.

AND TO REGISTER. VICTORIA DANCE BRAINOBRAIN

Beat the Heat this summer at Victoria Dance. Join them for daily

The kids’ development centre is running interactive sessions,

themed summer camps for the little ones, weekly dance camps for

creative activities, and fun-filled learning with experienced teachers.

teens and an afternoon schedule of classes for kids and adults. ✤

GO: CALL 3921 0220 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GO: CALL 3987 6215 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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Unwind this Summer

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COVER STORY •

ORGANISED AND OPTIMISED As the summer holidays come to an end, it’s time to reboot your life.

ugust is the month for fresh starts here in Bahrain. With the scent of aeroplane fuel fresh in the air and the distant sounds of your summer vacation still echoing, it’s the perfect time to reboot that human laptop you call your brain and start up the internal combustion engine that drives your body. This month’s cover story is dedicated to decluttering and re-organising your life. Whether you’re a home executive, a busy professional on the go, or just someone trying to find a healthy work and home life balance, our aim is to offer a series of interesting and pragmatic ways to live more effectively. In our quest to find simple ways to simplify life, we’ve consulted experts in personal organisation management, chatted to decluttering gurus, discovered great self-help books to read and excellent systems to implement. Turns out that paring down is an uplifting experience. The procrastination factor can be conquered. The need to keep unnecessary stuff can be emancipated. The task of cleaning up, clearing out, and being focused on efficiency, is a hugely liberating process. Our cover story takes you on a journey from more to less. From getting organised for a new job and organising your home spaces to prepping the kids for the new school year, we’re with you on this journey. For now, enough talk. Get the efficiency eye of the tiger, as together we tackle the task of getting organised and optimised. Let’s reboot life. fact magazine

• COVER STORY

The Declutter Delegation Home Is Where the Start Is

ecluttering a home can feel, at first, like an overwhelming task but ends up being an intensely rewarding labour of love. Once you’ve completed the exercise, your personal spaces will only contain things that serve you. There are simple rules and logical processes around keeping what you need. We’ve organised our thinking on the subject with a little help from our decluttering guru Bibi Boshoff, who mapped out a basic decluttering delegation of tasks for your home. Having a simple and systematic approach is fundamental. Bibi suggests that the most important foundation for this mission is to get four separate boxes and label them under the following categories: keep, donate, trash and relocate. Designation of these boxes and allotting items to them is key as you move from room to room. Apply logic to the lounge Your lounge or living room takes a beating daily. It’s your high-traffic area and for that reason needs regular attention to decluttering. Book a day to deal with literature and trinkets. Begin with bookcases and side tables. Completely empty them and review the items. Sort out any old mail or papers, and either throw away the junk or file the important paperwork. Dump magazines you don’t need and put the books back on the shelves

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Don’t entertain chaos. Clear up your entertainment centre by sorting out the devices. Remove everything that is not connected to your home theatre. Store items like chargers, gadgets and gaming equipment close to the source. Toy story can be a cool kids’ movie or an ongoing saga of mess. Among your catalogue of kids’ toys just lying around, take stock of each, and gather up those that have seen better days for donation or recycling. If your kids still play with it, move it into a dedicated toy box space. Batten down the bathroom The bathroom should be a shrine to simplicity. Start by clearing your medicine cabinet, discarding expired skincare products, makeup and medication, and then return all items to be kept back to the cabinet. Place your most used items at eye level. Clean up the kitchen Clutter and the kitchen are often synonymous. The kitchen is a multi-purpose place of activity and for that reason, it often gets filled with unnecessary items. The key to decluttering the kitchen is to select one category of the item at a time. Pick three or four categories in total, like glassware or appliances, and then complete one category before moving on. Have a hard look at appliances. If you have limited space in your kitchen, appliances are more trouble to store than they’re worth. Test key appliances to check whether they still work. Immediately repair any non-working ones you still want, so they’re not just taking up space. Toss anything that you won't be using anymore. Those items you want that are not in use regularly, must be

Flaming Thursdays Bite into your favourite dishes and get ready to welcome the weekend! Join us and discover the moment when Thursday night falls in love with dinner! Flaming Thursdays is a great place to meet with friends! Join our newly innovated theme night every Thursdays night to enjoy a great range of grills, flame-grilled meat and sizzling skillets all in one place.

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• COVER STORY boxed and placed in a dedicated storage space. Throw out all your expired pantry items. Anything even a single day past its use-by date goes in the trash. Be ruthless. Decant leftovers and items like rice into labelled food storage containers for quick and easy access. Clean up your kitchen cupboard shelf space by separating and putting the most regularly used condiments and key necessities, such as your everyday spices and oil, for example, in front of less used items. The bedrock for peace of mind Baby steps are best for the bedroom. Begin by making the bed. Psychology dictates that when the bed looks pristine your mind is better equipped to make good decisions. Tackle vanity tables and beside stands next. Clear the drawers and use your four-box system to sort out the items in them. Don’t look and return, delegate to the boxes with clarity and conviction. Lose the useless papers, dry pens, expired bills, and items that really offer no value to you. Make sure you allocate secure dedicated spaces in a single defined drawer space or safe for your critical documents. Passports, divers’ licences, wills and insurance papers must all go into one space that doesn’t change.

Back-To-School Blueprint

ugust is always a second chance to begin the year. You come back fresh after the holidays looking forward to a clean-slated start to another year. To map out an holistic approach to beating back-to-school blues and organising your kid’s routine, FACT met with Elmira Kahrobaie, a full-time mum and influencer. Being the best parent you can be, begins with being your ultimate you Everything starts with you and, once you start practising and learning how to organise yourself, you can implement that in every aspect of your life, leading and motivating your kids by your good example. Most of us struggle with not having enough time. Elmira’s biggest advice is always to “wake-up early and go to bed early”. This not only increases the quality of your wellbeing but also gives you the opportunity to start your day a little more slowly and with more focus. Giving yourself the chance to wake-up before your kids allows you time to enjoy the few minutes of peace before the mayhem commences. It is particularly important to find some time during the busy week for yourself. Self-care will enable you to recharge and ensure that you are pouring from a full cup. Pick a day and a time and indulge in a little self-pampering, whether it’s a game of squash, face mask or just unplugging and reading a book. 26

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When it comes to sorting items, Bibi tells us the rule of thumb here is, if you haven't used it in a year, get rid of it. Try donating items to charities, it's an emotional journey and she suggests that it will help by taking photos of sentimental items before you donate them. Bibi Boshoff is the owner of The Fixer – an exclusive turnkey service that helps you organise your home from top to bottom.

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• COVER STORY

Schooling yourself on home economics If you’re a home executive, Elmira is a firm believer that you are not meant to do everything every day. When it comes to cleaning, remember that each day is not a spring-cleaning mission. Try to organise and do one of the main chores daily. For example, laundry is one of those duties that you may need two days to complete, so try to plan it for the end of the week, so on the weekend (when you have more time) you will be able to fold, iron and pack away. There are certain tasks that will need daily effort, like mopping or vacuuming. Make these daily tasks short and simple. Elmira’s favourite tip is to always do the dishes at the end of the night, to avoid waking up to the task. Organising your ‘mini me’ When it comes to organising children, there are some common challenges with re-establishing routine after a year of the pandemic. A go-to method of following up on things with your child is to use a checklist. Your personal expectations and school expectations must be marked clearly on this checklist. This helps a lot with instilling responsibility and will encourage your children to become organised. Elmira’s top tip here is to let your child choose a day where they can enjoy rewards. Set a budget for them so that they can buy anything the money will afford. This way they learn about effort and reward as well as how to budget their finances. It is very important to highlight your expectations and goals in the upcoming academic year. Start by motivating your child to focus on the areas that need to improve. Make it fun by putting those tasks as priority and rewarding their progress. Remember you are not a teacher. Separate this role from yourself as much as possible. Try to keep the relationship as it is. As a mum or dad, you are always there to support and remind your children of their 28

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goals and assist them by being present. Balancing learning at home, remote schooling and classroom attendance is easiest when you set the easier tasks for home learning and the more challenging ones for the classroom. The key is to keep your child motivated with praise, often reminding them that these COVID-related interruptions are temporary. Children and adults perform best in any task for about 20 minutes. When home learning is in progress, use a visible clock to keep track of time. When the task is completed well, you can reward them with an extra five minutes of video games or whatever it is that they enjoy doing. Ask for feedback from the teacher as often as you can, to help to set boundaries for your kids. During summer vacations keep reminding them of what they did well in the previous academic year. Appreciating and expressing how proud you are of them is a great platform to then address the topics that require improvement and how they need to keep practising. There are many great applications that motivate and help children to play and learn. GO: FOR MORE PEARLS OF WISDOM AND MOTIVATION FOLLOW ELMIRA ON INSTAGRAM @ELMIRASWORLD

䔀渀樀漀礀䈀愀栀爀愀椀渀ᤠ猀猀甀洀洀攀爀戀攀愀琀猀眀椀琀栀漀甀爀攀砀挀椀琀椀渀最䌀愀猀栀戀愀挀欀倀爀漀洀漀琀椀漀渀℀ 䰀椀瘀攀礀漀甀爀猀甀洀洀攀爀猀琀漀爀礀眀椀琀栀礀漀甀爀昀愀洀椀氀礀愀渀搀昀爀椀攀渀搀猀愀渀搀戀漀漀欀愀猀琀愀礀椀渀䐀漀眀渀琀漀眀渀刀漀琀愀渀愀漀爀䴀愀樀攀猀琀椀挀䄀爀樀愀愀渀戀礀刀漀琀愀渀愀琀漀攀渀樀漀礀琀栀攀昀漀氀氀漀眀椀渀最攀砀挀椀琀椀渀最戀攀渀攀昀椀琀猀㨀㈀ ─ 漀昀昀琀栀攀氀漀眀攀猀琀瀀甀戀氀椀挀爀漀漀洀爀愀琀攀⸀ 䈀䐀㄀挀愀猀栀戀愀挀欀瘀漀甀挀栀攀爀漀渀昀漀漀搀愀渀搀戀攀瘀攀爀愀最攀猀⸀ 䘀爀攀攀搀椀渀椀渀最昀漀爀欀椀搀猀甀渀搀攀爀㘀愀渀搀㔀 ─ 漀昀昀昀漀爀欀椀搀猀甀瀀琀漀㄀㈀⸀ 䰀愀琀攀挀栀攀挀欀ⴀ漀甀琀⸀ 䘀爀漀洀昀甀氀氀礀攀焀甀椀瀀瀀攀搀挀漀洀昀漀爀琀愀戀氀攀爀漀漀洀猀愀渀搀猀甀椀琀攀猀琀漀攀砀挀椀琀椀渀最挀椀琀礀瘀椀攀眀猀愀渀搀爀攀挀爀攀愀琀椀漀渀愀氀昀愀挀椀氀椀琀椀攀猀Ⰰ 琀栀攀爀攀椀猀愀氀漀琀琀漀搀漀琀栀椀猀猀甀洀洀攀爀⸀ 䘀漀爀洀漀爀攀椀渀昀漀爀洀愀琀椀漀渀Ⰰ 瀀氀攀愀猀攀挀愀氀氀䐀漀眀渀琀漀眀渀刀漀琀愀渀愀漀渀㤀㜀㌀㄀㌀㄀㄀㤀㤀㤀㤀Ⰰ 䴀愀樀攀猀琀椀挀䄀爀樀愀愀渀戀礀刀漀琀愀渀愀漀渀㤀㜀㌀㄀㜀㌀㜀漀爀圀栀愀琀猀䄀瀀瀀琀栀攀爀攀猀攀爀瘀愀琀椀漀渀猀琀攀愀洀漀渀㤀㜀㌀㌀㤀㤀㤀㜀㈀㠀㤀吀攀爀洀猀愀渀搀挀漀渀搀椀琀椀漀渀猀愀瀀瀀氀礀⸀

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• COVER STORY

Be a Wardrobe Warrior

ardrobe clutter can overwhelm you. Sometimes your clothing range needs a dressing down, and not just with words but actions. FACT sat with personal stylist and image consultant Juliana Heide for some professional wardrobe organisation hacks. Ever feel that you have a tonne of clothing and nothing to wear? Feeling bogged down because most of your clothes don’t fit right, don’t match or are so last season? When it comes to clothes, we tend to think that the more we hold, the more choices we have, but in fact, the opposite is true. Too many clothes become overwhelming and can make getting dressed a chore. The trick to a stress-free wardrobe clean is breaking down the process and focusing on the main actions. Here are some easy steps to help you sort everything, figure out what you really need, and keep the pieces you truly appreciate. Define your style Purging without a plan is just going to lead to poor decisions, or you’ll purge and organise only to end up cluttered and disorganised in a couple of months. The first step is to start thinking about what your style is and keep this vision in mind when paring down. Ask yourself these three questions. What type of clothing you always feel comfortable in? What pieces do you wear on repeat all of the time, and why? What type of clothing suits your lifestyle?

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Word of caution: we can often get caught up in defining our style for our fantasy life and not our real life. Consider clothing that matches your personal style and lifestyle. Try sorting clothing into five main categories: (1) active – working out and going to the gym clothes, (2) daily – running errands and day-to-day clothes, (3) work – office attire, for meetings or if you have a corporate job, (4) going out – entertainment-style clothing, to go to the movies, girls’ night out, date nights, special events, and (5) lounge wear – clothes you wear around the house. Once categorised, ask yourself how you usually spend the day. Which two are your primary ones? Those need to represent the majority of your wardrobe and occupy the biggest space. Categories help you put your wardrobe into perspective. When you realise you spend 10% or less of your days in going-out attire, it won’t make sense to have more than that portion of your wardrobe dedicated to them. Purge your clothes Grab five boxes and divide your clothing into: keep, toss, sell, donate and customise piles. Interrogate your wardrobe piece by piece and ask yourself a couple of questions about each item such as ‘Have I worn this in the last year?’ The majority of cluttered closets are the ‘just in case’ pieces, which we convince ourselves we might need for some upcoming event, or just a personal attachment to what we wore once, or even because it was an expensive item. Once a year goes by without wearing any of those items and they are still there sitting untouched or with intact tags on, its time lose them. Your style changes. It’s not an easy task but ask yourself

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• COVER STORY the following questions: Does it fit, and do I like the way that it looks on me? If you haven’t worn it in a year, you won’t next year. If I saw this in a store now, would I want to buy it? If you had an event right now on your calendar, would this piece be the one that you would wear? Get your wardrobe waxed Once all your clothing is purged it’s time to put it back in your wardrobe and organise your pieces. Before you do so, it's important to deal with those items you purged and prevent them from taking up space and potentially making their way back into your closet. Put the trash bag in your bin right away, get the charity bag to the donation point and get to work on the items that need to be cleaned or restored. Once ready to put everything from the ‘keep pile’ back in your wardrobe, organise them by use. Each piece serves a different purpose and provides a distinct use. Organising by type makes the most sense. Consider an ‘off-season wardrobe’ while you are delegating, but in the same spot. Designate wardrobe space to store clothes that you won’t be wearing in the next six months. When you are done, you’ll feel how freeing it is to have a neat and organised wardrobe filled only with pieces you absolutely love. GO: FOLLOW JULIANA ON INSTAGRAM @JUHEIDE TO FIND OUT MORE.

The Career Without The Chaos

fter holidays, fresh opportunities often arise. As Bahrain's borders open, travel increases and trade picks up, there is an increased scope for career development. If you’re about to begin a new job, this is a chance to make a fresh start for yourself and a strong first impression on your new employer and colleagues. That means being well prepared and fully organised. We’ve identified four key organisational tips for starting your new job the right way. Maximise your transition time If you have the luxury of a week’s break between positions it’s the ideal opportunity to rejuvenate, re-energise and, of course, reorganise your battle approach. Consider taking a few days to get closer to nature, enjoy a camping trip or have an indulgent spa break. The getaway will do wonders for your spirit on day one of the new job. If there are any outstanding errands to complete, smash them all before you start the new position. You don’t want to be burdened by any personal tasks in your first month, so do a big grocery run, pay your accounts – whatever it takes to clear your calendar – for that all important first day. If you’re working from home in these pandemic times, make the effort to create a dedicated home office space, as noise and distraction free as possible, with an efficient fully equipped workstation, replete with a supportive and comfortable chair, a 32

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• COVER STORY neutral backdrop for video calls, notepad and pen, desktop and spare screen, good headphones, and some snack treats. Forewarned is forearmed Do your homework. Check out your colleagues’ LinkedIn profiles to gain insight into the corporate culture. Request or try to obtain a copy of the employee handbook before your first day so you can review it and know in advance what questions to ask. Consider researching your new company’s competitors, or testing out software you’ll be using on the job. Scrutinise social media. Review your new employer’s social media policy. Some organisations don’t care about employees posting on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or other social media sites during working hours. Others have policies that prohibit it. Scrutinise what seems to be acceptable before you start posting and vet your own social pages. Colleagues or the new boss might send you a friend request, so ensure what they can view is fit for public consumption. Check your privacy settings and be careful about who gets to see what. Left to your own devices? Enquire in advance if, on your first day, you're expected to use your own laptop, or have the option to use it. Some employers have Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) or BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer) policies. The employee’s new clothes Whether you’re heading into the office or working remotely, clothes make more of a difference than you might imagine. First things first. When working the old-school way at the office, it’s important to go in armed with the appropriate attire information. If your new employer hasn’t advised you of a dress code you can enquire in advance what is ideal for your workplace or visit your organisation’s website page that talks about people and management to observe what the key players are wearing in the photos and gauge the style and level of formality, or check

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out their Social Media spaces. Suit yourself. Nothing makes you feel ready for success more than a good business outfit. Spoil yourself in a professional way by suiting up with some new office threads. Whether it’s a formal or informal environment, the act of purchasing a dedicated outfit for the workplace will empower you. A crisp, well-tailored, highquality ensemble lets others know you mean business and contributes to your own commitment to the new position. The buck-naked stops here. Even if you’re working entirely from home, apply the principles listed above and get into a routine of wearing office-appropriate attire every workday. Like a Samurai warrior preparing armour for battle, the ritual act of putting on an outfit every morning before work will adjust your mindset to work mode, and help differentiate home time from office hours Read all about it Making the best possible start at a new job is about evolving your personal brand. By expanding your vision and enhancing your knowledge base you’ll attain the ideal kick-starter for your orientation phase. To feel stronger, smarter and more motivated take a look at these five books in preparation for the new position. The Case of the Bonsai Manager by Ramamoorthy Gopalakrishnan. Simple Ways to Fight the New Job Jitters by Sarah McCord. The First 90 Days: Critical Success Strategies For New Leaders at All Levels by Michael Watkins. Ultimate New Job: The Definitive Guide to Surviving and Thriving As A New Starter by James Innes Caught in an Elevator With A CEO? 3 Conversation Starters by Nicole Varvitsiotes.

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THE ALL-NEW AUDI S3 SEDAN Audi continues its exceptional lineage with the new S3.

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ISLAND RIDES •

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• ISLAND RIDES

hat is it that sets a motor vehicle brand apart from its competitors? Is it the premium look and feel of its models that elevates it above its rivals? Is it the amount of space and comfort that the automobiles offer? Or is it purely based on the technology and performance capabilities of the mechanical creations? In truth, it is all these traits that distinguish a great brand from a good one, along with the professional attitude its representatives adopt towards its customers, ensuring they always have a positive experience. Audi is, without a doubt, one of these prestigious brands. For over a century, this German-based car manufacturer has been creating an outstanding lineage for itself, developing a global fanbase and attracting millions of happy patrons worldwide. This month, FACT was given the opportunity to test drive the new Audi S3, compliments of the fantastic team at Audi Bahrain, an opportunity we immediately seized with both hands. The moment the all-new Audi S3 came into view, we were struck by its dynamic appearance and had to restrain ourselves from immediately jumping inside and setting off down the freeway. However, we were soon distracted by the finer design details of the exterior as we made our way around this impressive vehicle. A singleframe dominates the front end complete with large rhombus-patterned grille and distinctive air inlets. The Matrix LED headlights are aggressively shaped and contribute toward the S3’s confident demeanour. The exterior mirrors have a sporty shape to them and add a touch of bling to the car with their aluminium finish. The shoulder of the body extends prominently from bonnet to boot, whilst the areas below are curved inward, a new design element from Audi that has placed more attention on the wheel arches. The vehicle’s seamless rear finish is accentuated by the stylish lip spoiler, with all elements coming together harmoniously. The sporty attitude of the all-new S3 flows from the exterior into the interior, where we were greeted by a driver focused cockpit. All materials, trimmings and finishes are of an exceptional quality and the abundant comfort and space on offer added greatly to this already impressive experience. All the controls and instruments are perfectly positioned and, along with the superbly designed steering wheel, ensure that the driver has everything she or he may need at any time. The sportiness of this car is once again accentuated, this time by the distinctive air vents that form a single unit with the instrument cover. In the centre of the instrument panel sits a 10.1-inch MMI touch display with MMI Navigation Plus, all of which come as standard in the new S3. This system recognises letters entered by hand and provides acoustic feedback. If that is not enough, the infotainment can also be voice-controlled using natural language, a feature we found to be exceptionally useful when out on the road. We also found plenty of room on offer in the rear, with ample head, shoulder and leg room for three passengers. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 325 litres, a volume that can be increased to 1,145 litres with the rear bench folded down. Finally, it was time to get the new S3 out onto the tarmac and we were soon all nodding at each other in appreciation at the 38

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sound of the inline four-cylinder Turbo charged engine. This sturdy sounding engine is coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission that allows the vehicle to produce a maximum power output of 81kW at 5,500rpm with 290hp and a maximum torque of 380Nm at 2,000 – 3,000rpm. This combination allows the S3 to accelerate from 0-100km/h in a respectable 4.9 seconds as well as to offer an electronically limited top speed of 210km/h. As we made our way along the streets, our appreciation for this vehicle grew as we experienced all its capable performance features. The electromechanical steering with speed-dependent power assist allows for super smooth navigation, whilst the dualcircuit brake system with diagonal split and hydraulic brake assist ensures you are always in complete control of the driving experience. The driver assist system is yet another example of Audi’s technical superiority, boasting an array of assistance and safety features designed to keep you and your loved ones safe at all times. All of this combined with excellent traction control and the general responsiveness of the S3 provided us with one memorable test drive. If you’re in the market for a technologically superior, highperformance, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing premium motor vehicle, we recommend you try the S3. ✤

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“All materials, trimmings and finishes are of an exceptional quality and the abundant comfort and space on offer added greatly to this already impressive experience.”

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• ISLAND RIDES

GO: CALL AUDI CENTRE BAHRAIN ON 1745 9933 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN.

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MG RX5

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INTRODUCING THE NEW MG ZST

The new MG ZST is set to be a contender in the small SUV segment. 42

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BEHIND THE WHEEL •

he MG brand was established approximately a century ago. This British automotive marque began producing two-seater sports cars as far back as the 1920s. They soon expanded to develop both saloons and coupés with engines up to three litres in size. They eventually launched their very first SUV vehicle, The MG GS, in April of 2015, a vehicle we at FACT got to experience soon after its release. We were also fortunate enough to put the MG RX8 through its paces last year. Both these cars proved themselves to be very capable and comfortable. Fast forward to the current day and MG are now releasing their latest SUV creation, The MG ZS, an offering that is already proving to be very popular. Thanks to the great team at Al-Zayani Motors, the MG we were provided with was an upgraded, turbo version, namely the MG ZST and we were highly grateful for the privilege. The robust character of this latest MG SUV is flaunted through its contemporary exterior design. This new model has been upgraded and now features major style enhancements. Viewing the ZST from head on, we appreciated the prominent fact magazine

• BEHIND THE WHEEL nature of the front end, housing a new hexagonal grille and redesigned LED headlights. The black finish applied to these headlights, as well as to the grille, fog lamp trim, rear-view mirrors, side skirts and wheels provides a sporty finish to this SUV. At the flanks, the well-balanced lines of the vehicle flow from front to back, complemented by the 17-inch alloy wheels that are fitted as standard. At the rear, the LED light clusters have also undergone a facelift and contribute to the youthful look of this modern-day MG. Moving inside, we were greeted by the comfortable front seats that we found to be both supportive and wellpositioned. A surprising amount of space is on offer in the cockpit, with plenty of room for both front seat occupants. The interior has been refreshed since previous generations and a key selling point of the new MG ZS range is the availability of features normally found in premium vehicles that are included at no extra cost. We admired the extensive use of soft-touch materials that are utilised throughout the SUV. The two-tone colour design is highlighted by the red stitching and carbon-fibre-look interior trim, whilst the new dashboard design adds to the classy feel of the cabin. A huge panoramic sunroof is available on the LUX model ZST, a perfect addition to any vehicle in hotter climates. In the rear, three passengers can fit comfortably with sufficient head, shoulder and knee room as well as rear air conditioning vents to ensure everyone stays cool. The designers of the ZST have ensured this car is fully equipped to cover all the driver’s needs. A 10.1-inch HD touchscreen with CarPlay and Android Auto is included as standard and we found the infotainment system easy to navigate. There is also a state-of-the-art virtual instrument panel for the driver and a 360° surround parking camera that eliminates all blind spots. In fact, MG has included a multitude of safety features in this vehicle including curtain airbags to ensure the safety of all occupants. Cruise control, an electric parking brake and a push start button are just a handful of the thoughtful inclusions. Once out on the roads, we found the 1.3-litre Turbo engine of the MG ZST to be proficient, delivering 160hp and a maximum torque of 230Nm. This combined with a six-speed automatic gearbox enables the car to accelerate smoothly from 0-100km/h in a respectable 9.8 seconds and to deliver a top speed of 185km/h. This setup complements the fuel efficient 1.5-litre powerplant that delivers 6.2-litres per 100km. Everything about the ZST seems to operate very efficiently, including the responsive braking system. The car easily negotiates all corners and bends, even at higher speeds. All-in-all the general responsiveness of the ZST as well as the quality of its design and parts ensured we once again had a very positive MG experience. We can highly recommend anyone looking for a new SUV to give it a try. ✤

GO: CALL AL-ZAYANI MOTORS ON 1770 3703 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN. 44

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BEHIND THE WHEEL •

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“The robust character of this latest MG SUV is flaunted through its contemporary exterior design.”

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• MOTORING NEWS

BUILT FOR US Jeep’s new Gladiator Sand Runner is the ultimate high-performance off-road midsize pickup built to conquer the desert.

The new Gladiator Sand Runner is perfect for desert environments courtesy of the brand’s renowned 4x4 system and significant suspension upgrades, which underwent extensive testing over harsh sand and desert terrain for vehicle durability and protection. It is the first Jeep in the Middle East to wear the ‘Desert Rated’ badge. The models feature new, specially tuned FOX 64-mm internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs, industry-exclusive FOX front hydraulic jounce bumpers, a reinforced frame, a 25-mm front suspension lift with a silver front skid plate, stronger axles with cast-iron steering knuckles, aggressive front seats with integrated upper bolsters and standard 33-inch tyres. The starting point for the new level of capability is the Gladiator’s proven Command-Trac 4x4 system, which features a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio and heavy-duty third-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles. To earn the Desert Rated badge, Jeep engineers equipped the Gladiator Sand Runner with specially tuned, high-performance

FOX 64-mm internal bypass shocks to maximise handling, comfort and bottom-out resistance on high-speed sand runs. Industry-first FOX front hydraulic jounce bumpers, which combine race-proven technology with new, cutting-edge features, add additional damping force. A 13-mm increase in the Sand Runner’s track provides additional stability and allows for the packaging of the larger shocks. Jeep engineers also reinforced both the frame and axle to handle rough desert terrains at high speed. The vehicle’s 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 285hp and 260lb/ft of torque and features engine stop-start (ESS) technology as standard equipment. The all-new Desert Rated badge is the first of its kind for Jeep showing that vehicles represent the ultimate in high-speed, offroad capability and performance in gruelling desert and sand environments. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.JEEP.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

IT’S ELECTRIFYING First Images of the new electrified 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe revealed. US automotive giant Jeep used the Stellantis EV Day 2021, to unveil the first pictures of its all-new 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid. The fifth generation of the Grand Cherokee, which over the past 30 years has become the most awarded SUV in history, earning countless industry accolades and achieving more than seven million in global sales, will be officially unveiled at the 2021 New York International Auto Show and will include the full range of the Grand Cherokee lineup. 46

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The introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is another step toward expanding electrification and strengthening the Jeep brand’s vision of ‘Zero Emission, 100% Freedom’ in a year in which the Jeep brand celebrates 80 years of achievements and innovations. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.JEEP.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• MOTORING NEWS

REGIONAL FIRST FOR BAHRAIN Genesis Motors demonstrated its faith in the Kingdom with the launch of its first regional standalone showroom in Bahrain.

Due to host an unparalleled collection of Genesis models and spanning 900sq/m, the brand-new facility marks the opening of the region’s first dedicated Genesis showroom, operated by First Motors, the brand’s official distributor in Bahrain. Designed with the customer in mind, the dedicated showroom will be able to showcase up to six cars. These will include the new G70, the all-new G80 midsize luxury sedan, and the flagship G90, as well as the GV70 and the GV80. All available exterior colours, wood and interior leather materials will also be on show for visualisation and comparison. The showroom’s exterior and interior embody the brand’s luxury identity and include a number of designated areas including an arrival area to meet and greet customers and an immaculate display area where clients will be able to experience the cars close-up, to take in the finer details of the Genesis range. There is also a configuration space where motorists can sample interior materials, including colours, fabrics and leathers as well as exterior finishes. A test drive area for customers to experience dynamic driving performance; a customer lounge, private consultation area and finally a delivery zone – all reflecting the elegance of the Genesis brand and providing a seamless motoring experience. 48

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This new state-of-the-art facility offers valued customers an even more personalised and first-hand experience when it comes to purchasing their preferred Genesis model. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.GENESIS.COM/MIDDLEEAST FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• MOTORING NEWS

NEW VW HITS THE KINGDOM The new Tiguan 2021, boasting sharp style and progressive technology, was due to land in Bahrain just a few short weeks ago. The global best seller has received a facelift for 2021. The exterior includes a completely renewed front grille, full LED headlights and new Volkswagen logo. The eye-catching bumpers have also undergone a makeover, looking more rugged and complementing the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. The LED daytime running lights and taillights come with integrated turn-signal indicators. The latest generation also comes with larger, redesigned alloy wheels, available from 17 to 20 inches. Known for its iconic style, the Tiguan now comes in 10 colours, including Reflex silver metallic, Deep black pearl, Nightshade blue metallic and Kinds red metallic. The redesigned SUV offers four trims for this market. The new interior features a modern design with multi-function touch steering wheel, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and optional 9.2-inch Discover Pro Navigation. It also features wired and wireless App-Connect smartphone integration, enabling the driver to use smartphone apps directly on the vehicle display. The premium Harman/Kardon sound system has eight speakers to entertain while driving.

GREAT OFFER FOR BMW OWNERS In a first-of-its-kind offer, owners can now sell their used BMWs directly back to the dealer with no part-exchange necessary. Euro Motors, the official importer of BMW Group vehicles in Bahrain, has announced the launch of its brand-new ‘We Buy Your Car’ campaign. For those thinking of selling their used BMW, they can now sell their vehicle directly back to dealership, without having to purchase a new one. Customers must take snapshots of their used BMW’s exterior and interior, as well as photo evidence of the vehicle’s current mileage. With a rapid evaluation, Euro Motors will send across a competitive price, where each customer’s payment is 100% guaranteed. To ensure long-term client satisfaction and a hassle-free experience, Euro Motors will also be offering trade-in support, ensuring car buyers looking to drive home an all-new BMW model can enjoy up to BD2,000 of savings. ✤ GO: CALL OR WHATSAPP 1775 0750 FOR MORE INFORMATION. 50

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Drawing further on style, the Tiguan features multi-coloured ambient lighting, with up to 30 different colours, and a redesigned air-conditioning control system with automatic climate control throughout. In addition, the premium R-Line trim features an optional black style package that includes, 19-inch Valencia black alloy wheels, black mirror housing, black decorative inserts, and black exterior styling elements. ✤ GO: CALL 1745 9977 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• MOTORING NEWS

REVAMP FOR 70-YEAR-OLD ICON The latest version of one of the Middle East’s best-loved vehicle, the Toyoya Land Cruiser, has been launched in Bahrain by Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo.

Since its debut in 1951, the Land Cruiser has become renowned for its exceptional off-road capabilities in adverse environments, perfect for our region. And, now as always, with the celebration of its 70th year, the all-new vehicle promises outstanding all-terrain performance and comfort. The 2022 model comes with a newly developed V6 twinturbo 3.5-litre petrol engine that achieves class-leading performance, producing 409hp and up to 650nm. The engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle is also available with a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine that produces 271hp and up to 385nm, mated to a sixspeed automatic transmission. The all-new Land Cruiser is equipped with the latest off-road driver assistance features, including Toyota’s new ElectronicKinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) enabling independent front and rear suspension control with two independent loops mounted on a solid frame, a global first. The new 3D-Multi Terrain Monitor (3D-MTM) assists the driver in determining the road conditions, another first for Toyota, and a new AUTO mode that enhances the capabilities of Multi-Terrain Select. The front design builds on the heritage of previous models, with functional features such as headlamps and the radiator grille set higher to reduce the risk of damage during off-road driving. The side of the vehicle features a powerful silhouette defined by sharply contrasting lines. The perfectly flat bonnet meets a vertical grille at a near 90-degree angle, which is matched by the roof and back door. The rear of the cabin brings the design together in a refined, modern shape that mirrors the straight lines of the front and side while underscoring the 52

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vehicle’s powerful stance. The cabin offers a range of advanced features, such as wireless charging for smartphones, Active Noise Control, and a fourzone automatic air conditioning system with rear control switches. The cluster gauge features a seven-inch colour Multiinformation Display (MID) and a 12.3-inch multimedia display. Additional features available include a 14-speaker JBL sound system, Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system with 11.6-inch touch-screen displays that are Wi-Fi and HDMI connection enabled, ventilation for the first and second-row seats, a multiadjustable power driver seat, 60:40 split-folding second-row seats, fully flat-folding third-row seats, a kick-sensor operated power tailgate, and smart entry and start systems. The vehicle comes with an advanced safety system. This is complemented by Toyota Safety Sense, an advanced package that includes a Pre-Collision System (PCS) introducing new features including Emergency Steering Assist (ESA) and Intersection Turn Assistance to help prevent collisions, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with full-speed range, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Automatic High Beam (AHB). Further safety features include 10 SRS airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Parking Support Brake (PKSB), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Multi-terrain Monitor (MTM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), among others. Available in 10 distinctive exterior colours, the new Land Cruiser allows customers to express their individuality. ✤ GO: CALL 1726 2262 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• PLUGGED IN

LAUNDRY GETS CLEANER AND SMARTER Samsung has announced the availability of its brand-new smart laundry lineup.

he all-new household gadget series is an innovative collection powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that comprises top-tier energy efficiency capabilities. Headlined by the brand’s new AI EcoBubble range and developed to complement today’s lifestyle, make life easier for consumers and present greater convenience than ever before, the lineup will customise laundry processes and achieve desired results with less time, energy, and effort. Samsung’s Add Wash, EcoBubble and QuickDrive technologies form part of the lineup.

AI is the gateway to greater convenience Adding to Samsung’s reliable performance is artificial intelligence, which learns users’ behavioural patterns to recommend cycles. With AI Control, the new Samsung washer familiarises itself with user preferences and combines that knowledge with big data to provide the industry’s first automatic suggestion of wash cycles on its display. Paired with a simple user interface, AI Control eliminates the need for users to scroll through cycles or input their individualised settings each time. The AI Wash feature uses sensors to detect the laundry load’s weight and determine the optimal amount of water and detergent to dispense. Furthermore, the appliances are compatible with SmartThings, offering users control over laundry settings from their smartphone.

Valuable benefits The new AI EcoBubble range brings together Samsung’s most powerful technologies that cut down on wash times and energy consumption. Samsung’s revolutionary QuickDrive technology

cuts washing time by up to 50% and energy usage by 20%. The independently moving drum and backplate allows for more dynamic actions, cleaning garments more thoroughly in less time. Moreover, Samsung’s Digital Inverter Compressor adds to energy efficiency, utilising strong magnets for quieter and stronger performance while using less energy compared to a universal motor. The new washers also come with Samsung’s EcoBubble technology that maximises the effect of detergent by turning it into soft bubbles – allowing for faster penetration into fabrics, even in cold water. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.SAMSUNG.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

SOUND ON, GAME ON From F1 to the Olympics, Sennheiser’s award-winning products offer a stadium-like experience indoors.

ith a summer of great sport lined up, Sennheiser’s latest sound bar allows you to immerse yourself in the games with a 3D sound experience at home. Powered by 13 high-end drivers, the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar delivers a 5.1.4 sound experience while also producing extremely deep 30Hz bass, without the need for an extra subwoofer. And, due to an advanced room calibration, it immerses you in studio-grade sound adapted to the specifics of your living room for an unforgettable 3D experience. Thanks to its Upmix Technology, the AMBEO Soundbar can also recreate stereo and 5.1 content in stunning 3D audio. The soundbar features five different pre-sets (movie, music, sports, news and neutral) tailored to a range of scenarios and content types, that precisely adjust not only the frequencies but also the 3D sound characteristics. Meanwhile, Sennheiser’s Smart Control App allows users to adjust acoustic settings via smart devices, 54

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including setting pre-sets, personalising the sound with the equaliser and selecting from three different AMBEO modes. ✤ GO: VISIT EN-US.SENNHEISER.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

PLUGGED IN •

IPAD INGENUITY Logitech has announced Combo Touch for iPad Air and new colours for some models.

he new Combo Touch, Logitech’s most versatile keyboard case with detachable keyboard and trackpad, is now available for iPad Air (fourth generation), so you can get the newest design for your latest model. In addition, if you have the 11inch iPad Pro (earlier generations) or the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (fifth generation) model, the Combo Touch for iPad Pro now comes in two colours to match your style - Sand and Oxford Grey. The Combo Touch case features a detachable keyboard and integrated trackpad for a seamless user experience that also securely protects your iPad from bumps and scratches. The clickanywhere Multi-Touch trackpad delivers a world-class, highly responsive trackpad experience. With Smart Connector, power and pairing is instant. You'll never need to charge because power is sourced directly from the iPad. Supporting four use modes (type, view, sketch and read), the Combo Touch provides comfortable typing with a full row of shortcut keys and auto-adjusting backlighting that responds to the lighting in your environment, so you can always see what you're doing. The open side design also allows the Apple Pencil

(second generation) to stay magnetically attached to your iPad so you can easily store and charge. ✤ GO: VISIT LOGITECH.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

NEW RUN FOR C1 The new Nokia C1 second edition brings renowned Finnish trust and reliability to one of the lowestpriced Nokia smartphones yet.

MD Global, parent company of Nokia phones, has launched its latest Android 11 (Go edition) 3G smartphone joining the C-series family – the Nokia C1 second edition. With awardwinning build quality, the new edition delivers impressive power behind a crisp HD+ screen, supported by all-day battery life, while the top-notch security, that Nokia phones are known for, works diligently in the background to keep you safe. Video calling feels even more real thanks to the clarity an HD+ screen brings. Having flash on both sides will ensure you never miss those special moments day or night. Cosying up with the kids to watch a film will be a treat on wider viewing angles. With HDR imaging, this Nokia will ensure your memories are as beautiful as the moment itself. From build quality to security levels, from twisting and bending, to heat, force and drop tests, the Nokia C1 second edition can meet the demands of everyday life. It also has a sturdy polycarbonate body with an inner metal alloy chassis. Regular security updates will come through for at least two years, whilst face unlock will make sure those cherished memories are well guarded. The Android 11 (Go edition) brings you a 20% increase in speed and gesture navigation, which makes overall usage a breeze and frees up screen estate.

The Nokia C1 second edition is available from August in blue and purple and comes with 1/16GB memory and storage. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.NOKIA.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION. fact magazine

• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS What’s on the smartphone agenda for August?

Waze

Culture Trip

With holidays still very much in mind, and borders finally opening up, many of us will be hitting the road and we may well be relying on our trusty Google Maps to keep us out of trouble. But, if you’re planning on some serious motoring during your vacation, you should consider Waze, which has a range of real-time features that make it one of the handiest apps to have on-the-go. It combines GPS navigation capabilities with social sharing to get the most up-to-date traffic and travel conditions. It’s described as ‘like a more hip version of many other navigation apps’, because it not only taps into GPS technology but into the community of drivers and travellers. Real-time updates and alerts - Since Waze is community-driven, real-time updates are often faster than other apps. Drivers share information ranging from cheap gas prices and road closures to police and traffic accidents. Integration with Facebook and Calendar. You can notify friends that you are meeting of your ETA and plan your travel time around other events and trips in your calendar.

We’re still in vacay mode and this is your essential travel companion; wherever you are, wherever you go. Discover and book spot-on stays and experiences, hand-picked from the world’s best bits. You can book with confidence thanks to the app’s free cancellation and date change options. Get local tips by using ‘Near Me’ to discover insider recommendations for a trip with a difference. You can also plan your trip capturing ideas, save places and book your perfect options with ‘My Plans’. So, if you’re in Rome, you won’t head to the Vatican for the Sunday blessing when the Pope’s in hospital and you can book your visit to the Sistine Chapel, which has limited time slots, days in advance to suit your schedule. Instilling added confidence, Culture Trip has been App of the Day for both Apple US and Apple UK, which said: “Culture Trip is like a crib sheet to the zeitgeist – a whip-smart hybrid of magazine and travel site. You’ll never feel out of the loop again.”

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• 5 OVER 5

In Conversation with… Ali Akbar We chatted with Ali Akbar Multi Property General Manager at the new Jaw Resort and Spa and Swan Executive Suites.

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5 OVER 5 •

What first interested you and made you want to join the hospitality industry? The hospitality Industry is considered to be a versatile and evergreen industry with global scope, this being one of the reasons for me to pursue a career in hospitality. The other option in mind was engineering and the oil industry, something that I was keen on as a teenager. Eventually, hospitality came naturally to me and I decided to stick to this stream, although I had been a science student. Opportunities were ripe in that moment and I decided to pursue a career in hospitality. All praise to the Almighty, I’ve had the great opportunity of introducing family resort concepts in Bahrain. Jaw Resort and Spa is my second family resort project of a unique private villa concept in this country.

with complete privacy, undisturbed seclusion and stringent hygiene protocols was well received by the people of Bahrain, as we were packed to the rafters from day one for the summer days that followed. As we complete our first year of operation, we can now say, with assurance, that this project has been launched successfully, at a time when the global hospitality is struggling. Apart from Jaw Resort, another project in its pre-opening stage is Swan Executive Suites, located in the prime locality of Seef/ Sanabis. It is a family-oriented leisure and corporate concept city hotel, featuring luxury suites and penthouses. Located in the heart of the ever-bustling Seef district, Swan Executive Suites is the perfect haven for the business traveller, as well as for families looking for spacious accommodation and shopping destinations in the vicinity.

You have worked your way up from waiter through various positions to GM. What drove you to strive for this level of success?

What is the best part of your job? The best part of the Job is having the leverage as well as the drive to introduce new concepts, constantly being in the process of upgrading hotel facilities for our valuable guests, so they always have something new to look forward to every time they return. I believe that there is always room for improvement, enhancement and innovation. The global hospitality industry has been stagnant in this Covid era, and it is now more vital than ever to find new ways to appeal to potential guests.

All praise to the Almighty, It has always been my ambition to be a leader and to sculp more leaders along my journey. I have always considered myself a student not a master. My motto is to learn, teach and grow together. I started with F&B (food and beverage), moved to the Rooms Division and then spread my wings to learn more about engineering, and immerse myself into projects which molded me into a successful operations manager. That mix of experience from different departments has allowed me stand where I am today in the hospitality industry. This is my Journey and there is still a lot to be achieved yet. Your title now is Multi-Property GM. Please tell us a bit about Jaw and also the other property you are involved with. Jaw Resort opened its doors to guests last August in the middle of the pandemic. The unique concept of private pool resort villas

Do you have a hidden talent that you like to pursue when you’re not working? I have always dreamt big. Once the thought appears, I usually sketch it down and gather the team for their feedback and input. This way I can ensure to learn from them and vice versa, till we are able to convert the thought into a reality. This is my passion, whether I am working or not working, these ethics are built into my system, I see no reason to change it. ✤ fact magazine

CREATING STUNNING AUTHENTIC DISHES Goh Boonwah, Chef de Cuisine at Bushido, talks inspirations and a new menu. 60

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VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN •

You have previously referenced your mother as your culinary inspiration. Are there any other chefs or places that inspire you? Yes, there are. Firstly, there is one person who inspired me a lot when I was working in the Pan Pacific Hotel in Singapore. His name is Hishi San, the Executive Japanese Chef of Keyaki restaurant. He is so talented, he taught me a lot about Japanese food, and he was my teacher in the hot kitchen. The second is my sushi master, Chef Kikuzawa San. He taught me the traditional Japanese sushi way. Not only that, he also taught me how to do food control, fresh fish, hygiene, purchasing, and much more. And third is the person who gave me the opportunity at Bushido. He brought me all the way from Singapore to Bahrain. His name is Chong Yong Keong, my previous executive chef at Bushido. I really appreciate all the chefs who have taught me and made me become a better person and one of the top chefs on the island. What are your personal favourites both to cook and to eat? As a chef, I love to try any kind of cooking, especially Asian. Asian foods use a lot of spices, herbs, soya sauce, chilli, masala, grape and more. I am always creating Asian-fusion dishes for my menu. For me, cooking must be done with heart, passion and art. Food should be healthy and the most important thing is to bring people and families together, sharing the joy. My favourite foods are Malay, Thai, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, and Arabic grilled, especially spicy.

How do you spend your time when you are not in the kitchen? As chefs, we do not have much time for our family, so if I have spare time, I love to share it with my family. I love to take them to new restaurants so we can taste new foods and this will also increase my cooking knowledge; after that we will go for groceries. For me, this is my best time, because I love to go to the fresh section and I’ll teach my kids how to choose the best quality food items. Of course, I will teach my kids how to prepare and cook too. Aside from that, if I have some extra time, I will check my social media and share my knowledge of cooking to the people who need it. Here I would love to say thanks to my lovely wife for taking care of me and the family so that I can focus on my work. What is your signature dish, how is it created and what makes it special? Well, I am offering several new signature dishes which are the best sellers in Bushido. One of them is Nikkei Miso Black Cod. I think most black cod lovers are familiar with Miso Black Cod which so many Japanese restaurants are serving. But I just want to share with you our Nikkei Miso Black Cod fish, the specialness of this dish is the Peruvian-Japanese twist. The fish is from the Atlantic ocean, after we portion it, we will let it rest for 40 minutes with some salt. In the meantime we will start to make the sauce, the ingredients are saikyo and aka miso, lime and yuzu skin, ajiamarillo, cumin powder, soya sauce, and more, We will marinate the fish and keep it in the chiller for 84 hours, which is three-and-a-half days, before it is grilled for 10 to 12 minutes and served with white quinoa, edamame, lime, truffle dust and aji miso sauce. ✤ fact magazine

AN ASIAN-FUSION INFATUATION

FACT's Sara Waddah and co unwind and kick-back at the island's funkiest new hotspot, located at The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Hotel, Residence & Spa. 62

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NEW IN TOWN •

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• NEW IN TOWN

abi translates to things whose beauty stems from age, so when we heard that BO.SABI was opening at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, we made it a FACT (pun intended) that we were some of the first to experience the wholesome Asian-fusion cuisine that has been modernised to just the right degree. Accessed from the hotel's welcoming lobby, BO.SABI's friendly and inviting front entrance had us keen on seeing more. With bamboo-focused decor and a bohemian vibe, the interestingly decorated restaurant was absolutely stunning – expanding to an outdoor terrace that faces a picturesque view of the pool and palm trees. This witty new location gave off all the right energy from first sight! With the wooden walls decorated with striking pop-art posters giving it a very vibrant personality, we opted to dine right opposite the beautiful wall-fountain – the ultimate Feng Shui – where we were also able to enjoy getting plenty of sunlight from the long glass windows that surround the entire restaurant. Already infatuated by the welcoming staff, as well as their eagerness to tell us all about their authentic dishes and the stories behind them, we were beyond ready to enjoy this unique dining experience as the afternoon rolled on. Diving headfirst into the aromatic scents that began to engulf my senses, the Laksa soup came out to shake off any other competition in my books! Beautifully prepared with a big show of the lobster tail, what a flavorful way to start this journey, and the staff made it a point to let me know we weren't even close to the end! Crab Meat Salads are always tricky, but when prepared by the kitchen at BO.SABI, we were surprised to notice the freshness as well as the fine way that the crab was prepared; paired with a spicy lime sauce that surely gave it that extra ‘kick’ and served alongside a juicy green papaya Som Tum Salad (with just enough Thai chilli dressing that it was enjoyable), I knew that the surprises

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NEW IN TOWN •

were going to just keep coming... The stars of the show really stood out for me – and that's not forgetting the incredible tower of sushi that we very quickly consumed. It’s highly recommended as an excellent choice for a party of five that have great taste buds and even greater chopstick skills. Every single dish was thoroughly examined, enjoyed and devoured, but trying the Seafood Yaki Udon Noodles, it felt as if time had stopped. It was somewhat of perfection. Wok-fried with ginger, garlic, bell peppers, unagi, seaweed and topped with bonito flakes, the chef seriously nailed the perfect combination of flavours for this special dish. One that will sincerely leave your heart, soul and stomach satisfied. Incredible. Dipping our toes a little into the Teppanyakis before our appetites couldn't consume any more, the black cod Gindara, served with special Japanese ingredients and the showstopper miso sauce, was truly an enjoyable delicacy. Prepared to perfection and instantly melting in your mouth, not only could you tell the freshness of the fish, but also the love and attention that was put into bringing the dish together. Alongside the ice-cold sips that we enjoyed as we watched the afternoon sunset from the cool indoors seating area, this new place-to-be in the Kingdom genuinely oozed vibrance with its funky take on pan-Asian cuisines in a sophisticated setting! We can't wait to go back. ✤

GO: CALL 1753 1666 FOR MORE INFORMATION. OPEN DAILY FROM MIDDAY ONWARDS. fact magazine

A TASTE OF LEBANON

Liz O’Reilly checked out the newly opened Bayt Fairouz Lounge and discovered a menu so authentic, you could be dining in Beirut. 66

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

hey say first impressions are lasting and, if that’s the case, then Bayt Fairouz, in Saar, has certainly hit the nail on the head. An expansive space, art deco touches abound and there is a feeling of understated opulence, almost as if it’s saying, ‘we don’t need to brag’. Velvet chairs, in soft pastels and, for once, at the right height for the marble-topped cast iron tables; a central chandelier coupled with eye-catching hanging lights; atmospheric wall décor and a vintage-looking bar, all combine to conjure an atmosphere of relaxation and enjoyment, with just a subtle hint that there might be a party to be had – yes, there will be live music and even karaoke in the not too far distant future. The menu is extensive and it’s not easy to know where to start. Fortunately, we were treated to a selection of dips of which my favourites were the Moutabel, which had that distinct smoky taste that tells you the eggplants have been cooked over a naked flame, rather than baked in the oven, and the Tajine, which was completely new to me. It’s vegetable based and can be served as a completely vegetarian option, however ours had a hint of salty fish and was absolutely delicious with its slightly stiff texture and herby aftertaste. Other standouts were the chicken livers – oh my goodness, a complete revelation. Liver is something I would usually run a mile from, but these were cooked to perfection; not a hint of the sliminess that I so abhor and with a wonderful texture and deep resonating flavour, almost gamey in its intensity. Chilli fries, short and sweet with a crispy, fiery bite, had my dining companion exclaiming in pleasure. And a super-tasty lamb dish, of small pieces of meat with potatoes and herbs, is so new that it hasn’t been named yet. When you visit, just tell them you want what I had! For the main dishes, we enjoyed Kebab Ofle, Mexican Kebab and a variety of fried Kibbeh that we were assured cannot 68

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

usually be found outside of Lebanon. The authenticity of the dishes is a testament to the talent and creativity of Chef Rita, who is herself Lebanese. The Kebab Ofle was moist and tasty, far less oily than kofta kebabs usually are, and along with the standard onions and parsley it was enriched with a faint hint of chilli and almonds – an interesting combination of flavours to keep your taste buds paying attention. The Mexican kebab offered juicy chunks of seasoned meats, including beef and chicken, served with a fiery salsa speckled with fierce green jalapeno peppers. For me the salsa made this dish, adding a kick to the tender meat that led to perfection. We certainly have to talk about the fried kibbeh, which came as a perfect crispy dome and had a different taste and texture to the smaller starter version we had tried earlier. The classic mix of cracked wheat and lean minced meat is there, but the herbs and spices include Arabic Seven Spice, mint, marjoram giving a faint hint of oregano, cinnamon, chilli powder and pomegranate. Altogether the greater size and volume of meat makes for a much moister and more pleasing texture, and the taste combination put me in mind of true, traditional comfort food – definitely one I’ll be coming back for. And so, onto the desserts, of which there were several. Special mention must go to the Karabeej, a veritable tower consisting of rahash – the sweet, milky, tahini-based halwa; mahalabiya – the traditional creamy milk pudding; pistachios and a crumbly biscuit layer adorned with a Maraschino cherry. Literally the cherry on top. I have to say that, though extremely pleasing to look at, this was a little too much for me but the small squeals of delight coming from my dining companion (a full mouth rendering her incapable of actual speech) more than

adequately conveyed the triumph of this impressive dish. For myself, I chose the homemade chocolate ice cream that surprised with a texture more akin to mousse and was hiding delicious crispy flakes of chocolate at its base. Both texture – rich and gooey – and flavour – deep and satisfying, got my immediate seal of approval and I didn’t feel nearly so bad at missing out on the Karabeej. With a pot of tea to finish, we were invited to savour one of the many flavours of shisha on offer, but decided we’d better get back to the office and do some real work. I’ll certainly be back though, particularly when the live music nights kick-in. ✤

GO: CALL 3911 8585 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING. fact magazine

A FISHY FEAST

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DINING DELIGHT •

Liz O’Reilly visited the Wyndham Grand Manama to check out a Seafood Night extraordinaire.

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• DINING DELIGHT

have to confess, I really didn’t know what to expect on heading to the twirly tower in Bahrain Bay. Shamefully, I hadn’t been there before and wasn’t even sure which entrance to take (it’s number three, in case you were wondering) but the hotel is right there, as you come into the Bay area with ample parking to make your visit simple. The numerous lifts, always a bonus in a big building, allow you to go straight to the 10th floor, where Atmosphere restaurant is situated. A quick green-badge check at the entrance and I found myself in a huge space marked by contemporary décor and banks of windows drawing the eye to the night sky and great views. Dimmed lighting and ample distance between tables makes for an intimate atmosphere, despite the size. Foodwise, due to covid restrictions, the extremely impressive buffet was roped-off, but you could peruse the multiple choices available and then give your order to one of the staff to have your goodies brought directly to your table. There is also a fish market-style live cooking station, where you select your fancy, dictate your preferred method of cooking and even watch your dish being made before it too is delivered, piping hot, to your table. A live-cooking mussels station really made me want to like these bivalve molluscs, of which my friends and fellow foodies constantly rave. However, there’s only so much I will do in the interests of research, so if you want to try these – and, judging by the delightful aromas rising from the chef’s pans, I would recommend them – then you will have to visit yourself. To my surprise, the buffet not only presented the tried and tested 72

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favourites such as dips and salads, but virtually everything else, including the extensive mains selection, was in tune with the seafood theme and I was more than ready to tuck in. I began with beetroot smoked salmon, which does a little dance on the taste buds. Ceviche with a twist was presented in Champagne flutes with blue or green colouring, to make them stand out on the buffet. Slightly sweet with a delicate lemon grass zing, the sizeable chunks of seafood made for a substantial bite. Then I ventured back to dinner parties of yore with a seafood cocktail. But not the prawns engulfed in tired lettuce leaves with a mix of tomato sauce and mayo that I remember. Oh no, nothing so bland here. A large balloon glass was filled with big pieces of firm white flesh teamed with various fruits, among them apple and pineapple, and a proper, delicate Marie Rose-style sauce. Of course, there was also lettuce, but not a wilt in sight and the garnish of a sprig of thyme added a boost of flavour. Before diving into the mains, I couldn’t resist fried calamari rings, crunchy and well drained, just as they should be and accompanied by a spicy Japanese mayo for a subtle kick. A red snapper, found at the fish market but ready cooked from the buffet, was one of my highlights of the evening. Served in a delicately spiced dry coating, the firm white meat was both tasty and satisfying and a couple of these would make an ideal main. Speaking of mains, I obviously had to have more than one so I could report back. I chose Sumon fish which I’ve never heard of before but is, apparently, native to our local waters, and requested that it be cooked with garlic and lemon. It arrived within around 10 minutes and was everything I had been hoping for. The exterior blackened and fragrant from the grill, the inside tender, succulent

and juicy – it takes quite a level of skill to achieve the well-cooked skin without drying the flesh, so, I was suitably impressed with both presentation and flavour. Be warned though, Sumon is bony, really bony, but well worth it. I also tried a main course that I had been eyeing on the buffet since my arrival. The Seafood Florentine was the night’s second stand-out, for me. Plenty of wilted spinach, a delicate creamy sauce with just the right amount of seasoning so as not to overpower the other flavours, abundant fish and seafood and a hint of cheese. Perfection on the tongue. I chose mixed crunchy veggies to accompany it along with potatoes that I shall be trying to recreate at home, they were that good. Served crispy in their skins, they had a good bite so either cooked in chilli oil or sprinkled in chilli flakes – the fun, for me, will be discovering which. To finish, I went for a classic Bakewell tart with, once again, a twist – lychees instead of the usual jam underlay. This was absolutely delicious and a real taste of home, it’s glazed top smiling at me invitingly from a ridiculously large display of all things sweet and wonderful. I also indulged in a few spoonfuls of a delightfully decadent Oreo cheesecake. Creamy and sweet with that spoonsticking texture we all love, sitting on a dark biscuit base with an Oreo on the side and topped with glazed apricots. Who could ask for more to end a fabulous repast? ✤

GO: CALL 1711 6116 OR WHATSAPP 3366 0312 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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FOODIE CORNER •

HEAD TO THE WILD WEST FACT said ‘Howdy’ to a brand-new venue in the heart of Adliya where the atmosphere’s as important as the food.

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• FOODIE CORNER

owdy may be new (it opened just two weeks ago) but you certainly won’t miss it as you head to what is still the Kingdom’s foremost dining area, Block 338 in Adliya. Stroll past its, for now, better known neighbours and you can’t miss the giant mural of a cowgirl on a rearing horse made famous by Hollywood and now nestled amongst our palm trees. Inside is no less impressive as the imposing figure of Clint Eastwood with his fistful of dollars glowers down from the wall, complete with poncho and cigar, set against a desert backdrop that is somehow unmistakably Texan (even though the film was shot in Europe). The new building is an impressive size and can seat 50 people each in the ground floor dining area and the upstairs bar-lounge. There’s also a cute roof terrace complete with outdoor aircon, though we must admit we have our eye on that more for when the weather cools down. Everywhere you look there are nods to the American old west, from an antler light fitting as you come through the door to the ‘must have’ table tissue boxes, in this case dressed in Old Glory! And from the Stetson-clad chap on the men’s room door to the very impressive bar featuring a selection of Southern-style enhanced beverages you’d be unlikely to find anywhere else. The interiors are the brainchild of co-founders Alvin Miles, his wife Beauta, and assistant director Rony – who some may recognise from his years at another well-known American diner. Rony explains: “After Alvin and his wife visited the USA, it was their dream to have some sort of American-style restaurant. I

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FOODIE CORNER •

huge! However, I grasped my eating irons (that’s campfire-speak for knife and fork, y’all) and dug right in. I could immediately tell the quality of the steak by the texture and the abundant juices flowing from the flesh, which I quickly mopped up with the potato for a superb mouthful. I have to say, this is old-style country comfort food at its best and exactly what I would expect to find in a Western diner. However, if you want to experience the unique atmosphere of Howdy, but are not keen on American trad cuisine, then fear not. Thanks to Chef Brett Wright, a veteran of Scott’s of Mayfair, among other top-notch establishments, the menu includes a strong international element with options such as Caviar Risotto, Salmon Mille Feuille, handmade pasta and pizzas and Tartare Perlage – Wagyu beef tartar served with truffle perlage. For dessert I was served a showstopper of poached pears (my absolute favourite, so I knew I couldn’t go wrong) alongside pistachio cheesecake, which was superbly light and fluffy with a good strong flavour infused by a topping of pistachio crumbles – nuts rolled in pistachio cream and crushed biscuits then baked in the oven. Sweet with a hint of savoury, it was an absolute triumph on which to end my Western journey. With restrictions now lifted, Adliya’s famed dining scene is sure to be buzzing before long. Make sure you say ‘Howdy’ to Howdy next time you head into town. ✤

suggested the Wild West theme and together we came up with the concept of Howdy. We put a lot of thought into making it somewhere people could come and enjoy the atmosphere as well as the food.” And that atmosphere extends to the entertainment from Tribe Band, who play a mix of County & Western, alongside other favourites, in the bar – spot of line dancing anyone? The roof terrace is served by a DJ playing contemporary tunes into the night. We were presented with a selection of foods, including a juicy lamb shoulder burger with a twist. It came in a squid ink black bun accompanied a side of purple cabbage coleslaw and crispyfried baby new potatoes. There were also chicken wings marinated with brown sugar, homemade spices and aged fortified beverage, smoked in maple wood and finished on the charcoal grill. If these don’t grab your attention, there are plenty of other wings options and don’t forget to check out the Howdy special sauce. Bar bites include country fried prawns marinated in panAsian spices, coated in butter and hand crumbed with chef’s secret sauce. And, of course, in keeping with Howdy’s Western roots, you cannot miss the absolutely delicious baby back ribs that are smoked in apple wood and served with ale bread, roasted baby potatoes and honey mustard slaw – you can almost hear the crackling of the camp fire at the sight of them. Now, everyone knows you can’t do down home tucker without a range of steaks and other meats done Texas-style. So, in the interests of research, I decided to opt for the 350g Peppered Rib Eye Steak with pan roasted potatoes and spiced tomato pulp. I have to admit, I really was not ready for the size of this cut, it was

GO: CALL 3840 0013 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

fact magazine

• DINING LISTINGS

TURN UP AND TUCK IN Feasts galore across the island for you to try.

Wednesday at La Mosaique is Carnivore Night. Whether you prefer yours rare or well done, stewed, cured or chargrilled, the chefs have you covered with a unique combination of tableside service and live grill stations. Takes place on Wednesdays from 7pm to 11pm, priced BD18 net per person. GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3924 2391 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY CUT by Wolfgang Puck Delicious dishes crafted by the talented Wolfgang Puck team, refreshing beverages and the best tunes make for the most memorable dining experiences. Head down for a fab brunch featuring Chef Wolfgang’s favourite dishes prepared by Executive Chef Brian Becher and his team. Takes place from 12pm to 3.30pm on Fridays and costs BD34 net per person, exclusive of beverages, or BD48 net with selected beverages. GO: Call 1711 5055 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN Harvesters Pub and Terrace Kick off the Premier League season at Harvesters. All you have to do is predict your team’s score and you immediately win 30% off your bill. You’ll also get a voucher for a complimentary pitcher of hops to share with friends on your next visit, plus entry into the monthly prize draw to win a brunch for two. Offer runs on game days from 12pm to 12am. GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3992 0163 for more information.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN Harvesters Pub and Terrace Sunday is Pie Day giving everyone the chance to enjoy a supertasty homemade pie of their choosing. Think flaky pastry with mash or chips topped with brown onion gravy. Even better, it comes with a glass of grape or hops. Runs from 3pm to 11pm on Sundays and costs BD7 net. GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3992 0163 for more information or to make a reservation.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN La Mosaique Restaurant The word of the day every Wednesday is MEAT, which is why 78

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The Pool Deck The perfect outdoor poolside venue beckons you to enjoy the cool breeze, magical sunsets and majestic views surrounding Bahrain Bay. Indulge in a light menu of gourmet bites along with refreshing drinks and DJ tunes. Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm to 11pm. GO: Call 1711 5055 for more information.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Legendz Steakhouse At Legendz, an award-winning steakhouse, they share a passion for prime meat cuts, fine grapes and the art of cooking. On Fridays, you’re invited to join the Summer Brunch. They bring the steak; you bring the appetite and chill by the pool concocting your own mixed beverages as they prepare all the ingredients for a perfect feast. Runs 12.30pm to 4pm on Fridays and costs BD22 net, with soft drinks, BD27 net for the mixed beverage package, or BD29 with enhanced beverages. GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Legendz Steakhouse Sunday is Ribeye Night where you get to enjoy the famous New Zealand grass-fed ribeye steak (280gm) cooked to your liking and served with country-style grilled tomato and roasted garlic with your choice of sauce. Runs from 6pm to 10.30pm on Sundays and costs BD9.900 net per person. GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a reservation.

Your passport to the Samui experience without boarding a plane Tel: 17291133 | Mobile & WhatsApp: 39921313 | Instagram: Samui_bh Timings: Sat – Wed 11 AM – 12 AM | Thursday & Friday 11 AM – 1 AM Address: Shop No: 110, Building 108, Road 79, Block 575, Janabiyah – El Mercado Mall fact magazine

• DINING LISTINGS

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Selections Restaurant Can’t decide between seafood or turf? Take your love for both to the next level at the special Fisherman and Butcher evening featuring seafood and meat along with a set starter and dessert menu. Runs from 7pm to 10.30pm on Thursdays. Priced at BD19 net, with soft drinks, or BD29 net, with selected beverages. GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Silks Restaurant Start your Thursday clubbing with a quality night brunch. Go healthy at the salad bar, check out the Mediterranean light starters section, or stop at the fresh shrimp station to get your taste buds working. Enjoy unlimited grape and hops along with the various cocktails and end the meal with delicious, sweet desserts. The resident DJ will put you in the mood to party. Runs from 7pm, priced BD34 including unlimited beverages. GO: Call 1746 0017 or email hotel.bahrain.fb@moevenpick.com for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

ROYAL GOLF CLUB Golf Brunch Head to Riffa for an evening on the Wee Monty. Enjoy nine holes of golf on the par-three course with on-course food and drinks stations. Runs every Thursday from 4pm to 7pm. Priced BD18 per person. GO: Call 1775 0777 for more information or to make a reservation.

Gallery Lobby & Silks Restaurant Spoil yourself and loved ones with one of the best quality brunches in Bahrain. The international selection of dishes and desserts caters for every taste to promise casual, yet stylish, fun, great live kitchen and entertainment that brings your week to a fitting end. Brunch runs on Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm and costs BD36 net per person, including unlimited selected beverages. There’s 50% off for children from six to 12 years and under sixes eat for free. GO: Call 1746 0017 or email hotel.bahrain.fb@moevenpick.com for more information or to make a reservation.

ROYAL GOLF CLUB

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Palms Terrace Take in a barbecue on the poolside terrace. As you savour the refreshing outdoors, enjoy your favourite bites while watching live football on the large screen. Have your meats grilled the way you like them, served at your table. The selection includes ﬁne Frankfurt sausages, Shish Tawouk, beef tenderloin and lamb chops. The offer is priced at BD12 net per person and runs daily from 6pm to 11pm. GO: Call 1746 0017 or email hotel.bahrain.fb@moevenpick.com for further information or to make a reservation.

Saraya, Fiamma & Rivaaj Restaurants Aloha! Don your Hawaiian duds and head over to Sofitel Bahrain to indulge in the perfect island weekend getaway with a Luau-themed Grand Friday Hawaiian Brunch on August 6, 13 and 20. Surf through an appetising selection of international dishes and enjoy the Polynesian-inspired ambiance. There will be live entertainment plus a DJ and an exotic tiki bar where you can grab yourself a refreshing taste of the tropics. Brunch runs from 12.30pm to 4pm and costs BD36 net, including selected beverages. GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a reservation.

Links & Slice Regular weekly offers at Slice: Saturdays, kids under 12 eat free all day when dining in with a paying adult; Sundays, buy one get one free on pizzas from midday, for dine-in or takeaway. Links: Wednesdays, dine in on the signature ‘Steak Stone’ and receive a 30% discount off your steak; Fridays, à la carte brunch with unlimited food, selected beverages and live entertainment for BD30, from 3pm to 6pm. GO: Call 1775 1262 for more information or to make a reservation.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Saraya, Fiamma & Rivaaj Restaurants Get ready for something different as you tuck into the quirky, Face Mask-Querade brunch on August 27. You can expect the usual great food and entertainment and wear your most creative and unique face mask for a chance to win a free brunch for two on your next visit! Brunch runs from 12.30pm to 4pm and costs BD36 net, including selected beverages. GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a reservation. 80

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• DINING LISTINGS

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

Rivaaj Restaurant Tuck into Rivaaj’s brand new, flavourful menu with inimitable, speciality dishes and unique recipes prepared by Chef Javed Qureshi. And to celebrate the 74th Indian Independence Day, on August 15, diners will be welcomed with a diverse selection of dishes from across the sub-continent and will pay only 74% of the bill! This offer runs from 7pm to 11pm. GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a reservation.

Nirvana Immerse your senses at Nirvana where a culinary journey awaits, and the authentic Indian cuisine transports your palate to new heavens with The Great Indian Thali. Priced at BD18 per person, inclusive of two beverages, the offer runs on Thursdays from 12pm to 3pm and from 7pm to 11.30pm. GO: Call 1758 6499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a reservation.

THE ART HOTEL & RESORT

Thai Lounge E-San Specials mean there’s no need to travel to taste authentic Northeastern Thai food. Just let Chef Den Paensurin entice your palate with Northeastern specialities including Spicy Minced Chicken Salad, Fish Cake, and Crispy Rice Ball with jasmine rice and mixed vegetables. The set menu costs BD15, with one selected beverage, and the offer is available on Wednesdays from 1pm to 11pm. GO: Call 1758 6499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a reservation.

Choices Calling all seafood lovers! Enjoy exquisite flavours from the sea at The Art Hotel & Resort Fish Market every Thursday from 7pm to 10.30pm. The offer is priced at BD23 net per person, or BD30 net, with selected beverages. GO: Call 1600 0111 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE ART HOTEL & RESORT Choices Grab your friends and family and head to this Amwaj hot spot to relish in a delicious culinary spread with refreshing drinks and sensational live entertainment. Brunch runs from 12.30pm to 3.30pm on Fridays and costs BD23 net per person, with soft drinks, or BD30 net, inclusive of selected beverages. ART Reward Card discount applies. GO: Call 1600 0111 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE ART HOTEL & RESORT Rosso Restaurant Enjoy a spectacular Italian brunch prepared by an Italian Chef every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm. Priced at BD20 net per guest, inclusive of soft drinks, or BD26 net, with selected beverages. Discount card applies. GO: Call 3358 0044 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN Cantina Kahlo Indulge in a weekend brunch celebration featuring traditional Mexican favourites and entertainment, all within a vibrant and colourful setting. Brunch takes place from 1pm to 4pm on Fridays and Saturdays and costs BD30 per person, with soft drinks, and BD40, with selected beverages. GO: Call 1758 6499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Furn Bistro & Bakery Furn Bistro is open for breakfast, priced at BD7.5 net per person, daily from 6.30am to 11am and 11.30am at weekends. À la carte lunch is available from 12.30pm to 3.30pm and dinner from 6.30pm to 11pm. At Furn Bakery you can enjoy a selection of delicious cakes all day in the unique ambience of the Rotunda. Start your day with your favourite cup of coffee paired with a choice of Viennoiserie (baked goods) for only BD2.2. And there’s a choice of sliced cakes and coffee available from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Furn Bakery also has a daily bread promotion offering a 50% discount on the entire bread display from 6pm onwards. GO: Call 1717 1000 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Nasmat Lounge Located at the third floor of The Westin City Centre Bahrain, Nasmat Lounge is located by the pool where you can enjoy refreshing drinks, snacks and shisha. Enjoy sundowners with 40% off on selected beverages from 4pm to 6.30pm from Sunday to Thursday. Or take advantage of the hops and burger combo for BD10 daily from 12pm to 9pm. GO: Call 1717 1441 for more information or to make a reservation. 82

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• ARTS & CULTURE

A WORLD OF WATER We chatted to Mariam Alnoaimi, winner of the prestigious Al Dana Prize at the 47th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts (BAFA) Exhibition, about the importance of the environment in her works.

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ARTS & CULTURE •

Did you always know you wanted to be an artist and can you recall your earliest inspiration? It was not in my mind that I wanted to be an ‘artist’ when I was a kid. However, I have always been interested in art, it was something I enjoyed and was curious to learn more about. My earliest inspiration was the late Nasser Al Yousif’s work and sincere passion. It was inspiring to see him work on his prints and linocuts. I was young then, but it is one of those moments I remember very well. By the time I was doing my undergrad, I had the opportunity to attend art workshops by international artists in the region at Al Riwaq Art Space and Albareh gallery, for example Wael Shawki, Nadim Kufi, Rana AlNemr, Camille Zakariya and some other artists and curators. In many of those workshops, we had the opportunity to explore art through discussions, readings, and reflections. Are there any other artists in your family and has your family been supportive? Not from my direct family but my family has been very supportive. What or who inspires your work now? My surroundings and our relationship to our environments. I have always been fascinated by the relationship between people and the surrounding environment /space, and how

each is shaping the other and forming the cultures around it. Fascinated by the relationship between the human being and the place, how each affects the other and influences culture, identity, and environment. When did you first exhibit publicly and how did that feel? In 2013 or 2014. It felt great to exhibit publicly and, more importantly, see how people engage with my work. For me the artwork, especially installations and conceptual art, is not complete when the artist is done with it. The most important part is the interaction and the engagement with the work itself. I have been producing art professionally since 2014. You seem comfortable working across various mediums, which is your favourite? I do enjoy working with various mediums as it gives me flexibility and freedom in exploring and developing the project. I really enjoy working on site-specific and research-based projects. Throughout the research or the site visits I get inspired to use different mediums, like maps, cartography, sound, images, or materials which can then be translated and developed into an artwork such as an installation or any form of conceptual work. I have been working with maps in different ways and I find it fascinating as a way of storytelling, in which the cartographer is the storyteller. fact magazine

• ARTS & CULTURE Your studies, both overseas and here at the University of Bahrain, have been in interiors. Is this something you would consider taking further in the future or is it art all the way now? I did my bachelor’s in interior design at the University of Bahrain and my master’s in urban design at the University of Colorado, Denver. Spatial design generally is something I am passionate about and art gives a platform to explore the topic with all its layers, through research and different mediums. You showed at the world-famous Saatchi Gallery in London back in 2018. Your piece ‘Salt Enriches’ featured a display of black garments stained with salt from evaporated seawater, representative of a potentially life-altering decrease in the availability of fresh water to remove the salt stains. What made you decide on this subject and has it excited discussion? For me art is a platform to contemplate and to have conversations within oneself as well as with others. The environment and water have always been part of our culture and our collective memory and the culture of many other societies that are usually formed around water sources. Urban development and growth come with challenges, and the environmental impact is one of those challenges. It is a platform to re-look at our surroundings and have those discussions and conversations around the opportunities and challenges we, and many other cities, are facing due to urbanisation. You were also part of the Venice Biennale in 2019. How were exhibitors chosen and did these pieces also follow an environmental theme? What was this experience like? I was part of the Venice Biennale in which my work The Spectacle [a site-specific piece focusing on Bahrain as a 33-island archipelago and the massive changes since the coming of the oil industry] which I participated with for the BAFA 2019, was chosen by the curator Amal Khalaf who beautifully curated the show. The title of the exhibition was The Wait, where all the works by different artists were connected to tell a story highlighting our relationship to the sea from different perspectives. Your Al Dana award-winning entry at the 47th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition again draws on the changing environment and access to natural resources. Please tell us about the creative process on these works, how long did they take and, what was the message you set out to convey? It has been a topic I have always been interested in in the past few years and some images used in the video were taken a couple of years back. So, when I decided to put the work together, I went back to my archive. Water has always been part of the urban fabric and the formation of villages around it all around the world. It is part of Bahrain’s natural history, ecology and culture. Shifting Waters – looking at water as a medium of politics and poetics through which stories are told, the work aims to unravel narratives that often have multiple layers of geography, ecology, and collective memories. 86

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The work is a contemplation on how the geographical body of water has been constantly relocating, which has resulted in transforming the identities of people that built up around it. Since the oil discovery, there have been massive urban and social changes; the two liquids, oil and water, act as counterplays that shape our past and present realities. The project explores the poetic and tragic narratives that are unfolded in the presence and absence of water, which provides a framework to think through the geography of water, social experiences, climate change and urbanism. Do you view yourself as an artist-activist? And are you involved with other environmental projects? I have always been interested in the environment. Some of my art projects are ongoing works around the environment. What does winning the Al Dana Award mean to you, and how will it affect your future? I am grateful and thankful for the award and it is a motivation to work on coming projects. What do you like to do when you’re not engaged in art production? I love taking walks, strolling around and discovering new areas and places. Sometimes ‘the ordinary things are the most extraordinary’ and I find this in my walks. ✤

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Fear Street Part One: 1994 Need to Know:

Fear Street Part One: 1994 is the first film in a trilogy, released in July 2021. This teen horror is loosely based on the novels by R. L. Stine of the same name. The film brings a supernatural twist to the nostalgic slasher motion pictures of the 1980s and ‘90s. The interesting and wellconstructed story will have you immediately hooked.

“

With bonechilling cinematography and an incredible soundtrack, this is a delightful watch.

Atypical Need to Know:

Atypical is a comedy-drama with the fourth and final season being recently released. It follows the life of 18-year-old Sam Gardener, who has ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and how he deals with everyday problems, such as romance, school and family while being on the spectrum. His family also plays a big part in the show, and we get to see them leading their own lives and having their own issues.

Director: Leigh Janiak Cast: Kiana Madeira, Olivia Scott Welch, Benjamin Flores Jr., Julia Rehwald, Fred Hechinger

Why Is It Worth Watching?

Director: Robia Rashid Cast: Keir Gilchrist, Bridgette Lundy-Paine,

Jennifer Jason Leigh, Michael Rapaport

This teen horror has just the right amount of terror and gore. With a classic feel, it brings old-time nostalgia to horror aficionados. As the first film in the trilogy, it opens up the story very well and establishes the mysteries in this universe. With bone-chilling cinematography and an incredible soundtrack, this is a delightful watch. Sound is fundamental in horror, and Fear Street Part One: 1994 delivers; you are at the edge of your seat with each footstep and squeaky door hinge. The film centres around Deena (Kiana Madeira) and her friends attempting to stop the evil force causing brutal murders in their small town: Shadyside, nicknamed 'Killer Capital, USA'. As well as the compelling characters and exciting visuals, this show is most definitely worth your time. With all three films already available to watch, this is the ultimate weekend binge.

Why Is It Worth Watching?

This heartfelt story centres around Sam (Keir Gilchrist), his relationships with those around him and how his ASD affects his life. We also get to see how his family members grow as they learn more about him and themselves. As the name suggests, this isn't your typical family, and we get to watch each family member discovering themselves, from his younger sister Casey (Bridgette Lundy-Paine) to his helicopter mum (Jennifer Leigh). Even though Sam's autism plays a big part in the series, it isn't the focus. Instead, the focal point is him, his interests, aspirations and connections with others. It shows that he gets to pursue his dreams and find his purpose. The depiction of autism won't always be perfectly accurate, but it is still worth watching to get to know a bit of this universe. The show is down to earth, and many situations are relatable. It is the perfect light-hearted family drama. 88

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ENTERTAINMENT •

ON THE RECORD

FULLY BOOKED

NON-FICTION

ONE: Pot, Pan, Planet

CATEGORY: POP Sour By Olivia Rodrigo

CATEGORY: JAZZ, ELECTRONIC, ORCHESTRAL

Promises Floating Points/Pharaoh Sanders/ London Symphony Orchestra

This is a Disney fairy tale with a twist. In the space of about six months, Olivia Rodrigo has gone from lead player on the teen show with the convoluted title, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, to the solo artist who dominates global music charts, outselling her more illustrious big-name competitors. She may be an overnight sensation, but there is more to the young songwriter than meets the eye. Her debut album Sour is a declaration of independence, a private mourning of a relationship past, and an anthem to teen spirit. Despite the hype, it’s a very good debut, written with genuine insight and suggests, in no uncertain terms, that Rodrigo will become far more than a fleeting viral sensation. The first single, Drivers License will be the song of the year. Fact. The second, good 4 u has already chewed up the chart scenery. One listen to the album and you’ll discover there are more singles threatening Top 10 status. Rodrigo’s album talks to a lot of issues that teenagers and young adults face, and it does so with refreshing grace.

Imagine an album that brings together an octogenarian luminary of the jazz world, an electronic music wizard and the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO). Promises does all that and more in delivering an eclectic masterpiece. Technically comprised of nine movements, the album plays as a single track punctuated only by the nuances of the contributing artists and ensembles, where synths deliver a discourse with the saxophone exploits of Pharaoh Sanders and the symphonic majesty of a full orchestra. That a seven-note refrain can form the basis of an entire album sounds frighteningly boring, but it is not, empathically not! Jazz icon Sanders, now 80, is sublime, adding a genuine sympathy and tenderness. Driven by the rhythm of UK-based DJ Floating Points (aka Sam Sheperd) and the harmony of LSO, Promises offers episodes in musical exploration and emotional investment. From psychedelic synth to the crude yelps and subtle soulfulness of the saxophone, to luscious string phrases, this release provides a musical journey thoroughly well worth taking.

By Anna Jones Ever contemplate that a cookbook could help save the planet? Seems that not all heroes necessarily come with capes but, in this case, possibly with capers. With her new book, award-winning cook and culinary superhero Anna Jones has developed a succinct solution for cooking swiftly, sustainably, and with superb style. She has compiled a fresh collection of more than 200 easy-to-follow recipes that revolve around the number one – as in the use of either one pot or one pan – to produce a delicious meal. She covers plantbased dishes and dedicates three chapters to sustainable and waste-reducing (and waistmaintaining) meals, including special ways to use up leftover vegetables.

FICTION

A Bright Ray of Darkness

By Ethan Hawke You may well know Ethan Hawke from the world of Hollywood, as the four-time Academy Award nominee and star of Training Day, Gattaca and Reality Bites. You might also remember him as the man who cheated on Uma Thurman, but you may not know that he is also an acclaimed writer. The author of three previous novels has not put digits to desktop in 20 years, but showcases his undeniable literary talent once again in this firstperson narrative novel with sardonic bite and deep poignancy. Beginning amid a media-storm around the Hollywood heartthrob protagonist, following their exposure in a compromising situation in Cape Town, South Africa, A Bright Ray of Darkness is a moving meditation on fame, fatherhood and art, as well as being a blistering read. fact magazine

BRING OUT THE BRIGHTS Pink top Alice + Olivia

With summer fully ablaze, it really is time to dress for joy with designer duds in the season’s hottest shades and shapes.

fact magazine

he free-spirited vitality of the great outdoors is reflected in flowing fabrics and light, airy colours in the latest pieces to be found in theoutnet.com’s summer collection. Yes, we’ve gone a little bit upscale this month to bring you a selection of the online retailer’s designer offerings, which all come at discount prices. These looks are ultra-feminine but, at the same time, fun and eye-catching. We can just imagine running through the grass (or perhaps, in our region, the desert might be more appropriate) in this pink confection from Oscar de la Renta. Or treating out tootsies to these funky sandals from The Row. However you’re spending your summer, make sure there’s at least one super-bright option in your (or your lady’s) wardrobe or suitcase. Trust us, these fab colours don’t just look great, they’re sure to lift your mood all day long. ✤

Green dress, Alberta Ferretti; red gown, Khaite Pink blouse, Stella McCartney; skirt, Marni; belt, Rejina Pyo; sunglasses, Chloe

Blouse Chloe; skirt, Zimmermann; bag,Tory Burch

FASHION FOCUS •

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Pink dress, Oscar de la Renta; red shoes, The Row

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Printed floral dress, Dodo Bar Or; patchwork dress, Rixo

Striped gown, Oscar de la Renta

Yellow dress, Emilia Wickstead; shoes Alberta Ferretti

Red dress, Rejina Pyo

FASHION FOCUS •

SHOP THE STORY AT WWW.THEOUTNET.COM

fact magazine

• FOR HER

NEW & Essence Cosmetics Daily Dose Of Love What’s in a name? Well, in this case, everything actually. Who could resist this pretty eyeshadow palette? Who doesn’t need a Daily Dose Of Love? Look out for nine beautiful wearable, rosé eye shadows with a mix of matte and sparkly shades for you to create plenty of different amazing looks.

Henry Jacques Les Boites à Parfums It’s a case (pun intended) of get into the box with these new creations from haute perfumier Henry Jacques. To house personal collections from its extensive range of 50 fragrances, the house has come up with a series of delightful chests born to reveal and protect the flacons in a manner as unique and special as the fragrances they encase. And, better yet, they’re free when you buy three, six or nine of the perfumes.

L’Occitane Solid Shampoos Discover shampoo created with your hair and the planet in mind with French brand L’Occitane’s new solid bars. As a brand committed to reducing waste and using traceable, natural origin ingredients, they are formulated without silicones and sulfates and the packaging is recyclable and made from 100% recycled paper. Each product is molded with an ergonomic shape to make it user-friendly even when on the go. There are two shampoos: Intensive Repair and Purifying Freshness.

rite GLOW Tired of thinning hair, brittle nails and loss of elasticity in the skin? GLOW gummies promise to help, if incorporated into a daily routine. They’re fortified with Biotin and a blend of nourishing plants such as horsetail and rose petals for a glowing skin and stronger hair, plus all key ingredients for stronger hair growth and the stimulation of collagen production such as Coenzyme Q10, Vitamin B3, L-Cystine, Selenium and Zinc. The other advantage is that they taste good and are vegan, and free of GMO, synthetic colours and artificial flavours.

wet n wild Colour Icon Bronzer Want that sun-kissed look without exposing your skin to the mega-ageing ball of fire in the sky? Then check out the new range from Los Angeles-based wet n wild. Dermatologically tested, the bronzer is a gel-infused wearing formula that leaves skin looking luminous with a sun-kissed glow. It applies like a cream and sets like a powder adding a natural tan flush when applied to the skin. Vegan and cruelty-free, it’s available in four fabulous shades to suit different skin tones. 94

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FOR HIM •

NOW Scents, skincare, grooming musthaves – check.

Dabur Herbal Toothpaste Herbs and natural ingredients have played an important role in dental care since ancient times. With 135 years of Ayurveda knowledge, Dabur International has introduced a premium range of toothpastes backed by the goodness of trusted

Blushin’ Bubbles

natural ingredients such as olive, aloe vera, charcoal

Tolpa

and blackseed blended with other natural herbs, to

Men Anti-shine Gel Cream

suit modern dental needs.

This product moisturises and regulates the sebum

Ensuring a healthy start to your day, the range is

secretion in your skin helping to reduce shine and

free from fluoride, peroxide, and triclosan and

imperfections. Using a unique formula, this anti-

offers fresh taste and long-lasting protection that

shine gel contains anti-bacterial properties to

keeps you feeling confident the entire day. There

help reduce the number of blackheads and their

are four options to choose from and they all come

formation. It’s also free from parabens, artificial

with a free bamboo toothbrush.

colours, silicones or paraffin oil.

Carolina Herrera Bad Boy

Cool Blue Men’s Massage Soap Bar

Carolina Herrera puts a bold twist on the myth of

BAD ACE

Massage your cares away while sudsing up

the eternal rebel with Bad Boy Le Parfum. When

Energy Face Moisturizer – Citric Punch

with this unique massage soap. The all-natural

first released onto the skin, the primary sensation

Guys, get your glow on with a revolutionary

moisturising marvel is shaped into an easy-to-

is an instant burst of energy. This is thanks to

line of Korean grooming essentials for men.

grip, nubby bar, meant to stimulate circulation and

the marriage of grapefruit, the most playful of

This moisturiser fights dryness, signs of ageing,

soothe sore, aching muscles. Massage Soap Bars

the citrus fruits, and the sparkling surprise of

breakouts, and daily environmental damage. Multi-

have large nubbies which massage the skin, muscle

the bold hemp accord. The heart notes reveal a

vitamins help battle ageing, replenish natural oils,

and tissue and the nubbie half is very hard soap, so

perfect harmony of black pepper and geranium.

and encourage the production of collagen. Plus, a

the benefit of massage lasts as long as the bar. The

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refreshing lemon scent with a cool menthol tingle is

soaps can be customised to your skin type as they

leather accord that joins forces with vetiver, the

the jolt you need to start your day. Even better, the

are handmade and are made with 100% natural

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brand is 100% organic with eco-friendly packaging

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classic men’s perfumery.

and no animal testing. fact magazine

• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About Olympics, Yes or No?

Billionaires in Space

F1 – That Crash

Well, like it or not, as we write the delayed Tokyo Olympics are underway with elite sportspeople from across the world gathered in Tokyo. But this is not the Tokyo that was elated when its successful bid was announced back in September 2013. Last year, due to Covid, Tokyo 2020 became the first Olympics to be postponed and rescheduled, rather than cancelled. And, while it’s reasonable to argue that, at that point, neither the Japanese organisers nor the International Olympic Committee could have foreseen the devastating ongoing affects of the pandemic.

Did anyone else watch with bemused disgust as Jeff Bezos, the world’s richest man, hopped into his giant phallic symbol and headed for the stars? And did you, like us, find his thanks to the Amazon workers whose toil put him there (despite reportedly terrible working conditions) more than little tone deaf and distasteful? Some would say there’s no reason he, Richard Branson and, to a lesser extent, Elon Musk – who is at least working with NASA – should not indulge themselves with their colossal personal wealth but it’s hard to stomach when you learn that a study by the Woods Hole Research Institute estimates that reducing

That now infamous crash between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, at the British Grand Prix in July, has excited much debate. Verstappen is known for full-on, aggressive driving while Hamilton is often the more yielding, allowing Verstappen to forge ahead as he holds back and lives to drive another day. It’s a strategy that has served him well, leading him to equal the great Schumacher’s seven world championship titles. But, this season, Verstappen had a commanding lead going into the Silverstone battle and Hamilton, who’s been forced to give way to the Red Bull driver several times during the season, clearly decided

deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon ‘The Lungs of Our Planet’ to nearly zero within a decade would cost between USD100 million and USD600 million per year – a mere drop in the ocean to a man valued at more than USD208 billion! Is it too much to ask that these billionaires spend less time showing off what big wallets they have and more demonstrating big hearts too?

he wasn’t having it any more. His determination to pass the unyielding Verstappen resulted in the crash, which could have been written off as a racing incident. Instead, the Brit was awarded a 10-point penalty, which he accepted grudgingly – and showed remarkable skill to go on and win the race. What came after though was clearly not very sportsmanlike with Red Bull Team Principal, Christian Horner, spouting off furiously, Verstappen castigating his rival for celebrating when he himself was in hospital but unhurt, and Hamilton facing racist abuse online. It’s gonna be a long season ahead!

Those effects have become more than apparent in recent months. A huge percentage of the Japanese public have condemned the decision to go ahead. Thousands of athletes and their support teams, media and a huge labour force have flooded into Tokyo, and that’s despite the decision to hold the events without spectators. Japan is already experiencing a very serious upsurge in infections and there had been more than 120 positive tests connected to the games as we went to press. So, you have to ask was it really worth it? Tell us what you think. 96

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fact magazine

ISLAND INSIDER

Firas Barbir General Sales Manager, Audi Centre Bahrain

How did you first become involved in the automotive world, were you a petrolhead as a kid? It is in a boy’s nature to be subject to cars in one way or another, yet I had it become more of a reality, rather than just human nature, due to the family business revolving around cars. From a transportation business in Lebanon, expanding to a tyre business, and then sub-dealers for Toyota and now Chevrolet-Cadillac-Isuzu, you could already see how my passion for cars would just grow to make me who I am today.

fact magazine

You have worked with various other brands. What is it about Audi that makes it special? No matter which brands we may represent as a family business, or brands I may personally work for, I shall always find myself with a German franchise. Holding dual citizenship, German and Lebanese, and having been brought up in Bavaria close to Porsche, VW and Audi, surely makes working for Audi close to home. I don’t just speak German, but I speak Audi too, and thanks to Behbehani Brothers, whom I have worked for in the past with Porsche, I was once again welcomed into this respectful family and dealership under the Audi Badge.

If you could own any car in the world (Audi or otherwise) what would it be and why? My personal favourite is the Audi RS8. Power, design, supercar sportiness and performance under the four-ring badge make it my current choice. Fast forward, I would certainly be setting my eyes on the Audi E-Tron GT, the car of the future, confidently standing up for Audi’s slogan ‘Vorsprung Durch Technik’, which means progress in technology or, more so, ahead in technology.

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100 fact magazine