FACT Bahrain May 2015

MAy 2015 VOL 8. ISSUE 9 BD 1. SR10

THE TRAVEL ISSUE THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION GUIDE TO INSPIRE YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS.

fact magazine

1

2

fact magazine

contents SEAT BELT FASTENED. TAKE OFF...

Pick a destination. Research all the fun things you can do there. Go to the airline’s website or your local travel agent. Book your flights. Book your accommodation.

Start holiday shopping. Pack well in time. Head to the airport. Go through check in. Walk to your gate. Board the plane. Off you go...

16. FACT FINDS

24. HAPPENINGS

31. Travel

52. HOTEL HOTSPOT

55. ARTS

This month we bring you a cute bakery and cafe called Retro Mama, serving up delicious American sweet treats.

Check out all the best events, activities, parties and foodie deals to enjoy throughout the month of May.

FACT brings you a round up of some of the world’s best destinations to help inspire your summer holiday plans.

We visit the Mercure Grand Hotel, Seef to see exactly what a stay at this prime-positioned property has to offer.

Journey to NYUAD Gallery for the fascinating exhibition Slavs and Tatars: Mirrors for Princes.

FACT tells you more...

60. REVIEWS

65. ISLAND RIDES

83. FASHION FOCUS

Entertainment heats up this month with new film, music and book releases. Here’s our verdict on what to expect.

Our resident motoring man takes the stunning McLaren 650S Spider out for a spin. Read all about his adventure now.

74. f1 after-race report Did you enjoy F1 weekend?

Here are all the highs and lows from 2015’s amazing event.

H&M brings a fresh collection of clothing for men and women this season. Check out the new line for wardrobe inspiration.

93. FASHION INTERVIEW FACT caught up with founder and managing director of RR&Co - Rosemin Manji.

95. beauty checklist

97. CHEF’S TABLE

101. VENUE REVIEW

104. foodie corner

107. bahrain bites

We dine at the table of Chef David Bell at Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency Bahrain.

In search of the traditional Trader Vic’s experience we check out if this foodie establishment has still got it.

FACT head’s to the newest Friday Brunch in town at the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay. Read all about the lavish affair.

Do you love a good food promotion, themed night and dining deal? This is what May has to offer diners in Bahrain.

A new month means one thing; new beauty buys. This is what we recommend to pick up for May.

fact magazine

3

blended beverage 4

fact magazine

fact magazine

5

6

fact magazine

fact magazine

7

8

fact magazine

Polo Shirt

BD 4.500

fact magazine

9

10

fact magazine

fact magazine

11

THE EDITOR

“If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it is lethal.” – Paulo Coelho.

O

ne of my most memorable experiences abroad was spending a summer volunteering in Marrakech; we lived next door to a family with a noisy donkey, ate too much chicken tagine from street food carts, and spent our days off exploring the Atlas Mountains and Berber villages – it was a few weeks of complete escape and further deepened my love for travelling and seeing the world.

This also means that when the travel issue comes round, we’re bustling with ideas! This year, we take inspiration from Buzzfeed listicles and bring you some cool round ups to inspire your summer travels. Starting p31, there’s everything from colourful destinations, quirky souvenirs, underrated city breaks, music festivals, cruise options, countries with awesome landmarks, honeymoon ideas, and where to travel for the best street food. And with Bahrain being a great base to explore Asia, Africa, and Europe and further, if you haven’t booked your hols yet, we guarantee you’ll find your next stop in this issue.

We also take a trip to Abu Dhabi’s art scene with Slavs and Tatars: Mirrors For Princes at NYUAD Gallery (p55), another showcase that will draw enthusiasts from all over the region. Art is prominent in Bahrain too, for the month of May. Check out Alphabets and Sculptures (p22) at Albareh Art Gallery, and ARTDIVANO, a new art consultancy in Riffa (p20). For those looking for lively happenings, The Wailers, the legendary Bob Marley band, will be flying into the country for a special show at Coral Bay (p22) – it’s guaranteed to be a sold-out event so get your tickets asap!

Talking of partying, who’s still recovering from F1 weekend? 2015’s events and the night race was pretty spectacular, right? FACT’s very own motoring man brings you the full after-race report on p74. And when you’re done reading all about that check out his test drive of the slick McLaren 650S Spider (p65) – a stunning machine!

Food (one of my other favourite things in life!) also takes centre stage in this issue. FACT dines at the table of Chef David Bell at Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency Bahrain (p97). We also head to Trader Vic’s to see if its brand-new look still offers that traditional Trader’s experience that everyone loves (p101). And the most lavish of all is our Foodie Corner (p104) which saw us visit the all-new Friday Brunch at Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, one word; WOW! If you’ve got a free Friday this month, it’s well worth checking out.

Italy, Canada, Maldives… the list goes on for me. I’ll be booking a few flights this month, you should to! Tweet @FACTbahrain and tell us where you’re flying off to this summer. Happy travels!

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@factlive.com 12

fact magazine

MAy 2015 VOL 8. ISSUE 9 BD 1. SR10

Go Getter, Jet Setter...

FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition May 2015 Volume 8, Issue 9

THE TRAVEL ISSUE THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION GUIDE TO INSPIRE yOUR HOLIDAy PLANS.

front.indd 1

4/27/15 7:15 PM

Director Omar Shaheen Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Editor-in-Chief Shabana Adam (shabana@factlive.com) Group Regional Editor Tony Sidgwick Editor Pallavi Ramesh (editorial@factlive.com) Creative Director Paula Leal Graphic Designer Jyoti Rawat Design & Photography Rashed Bin Daina Photographer Shobin Joseph Production & Distribution Neil Mahmood Ajit Kumar Regional Head of Sales Chelsea Copenhaver Account Managers Marina Smera Nicola Thirsk Contributors Christal Dennis Yvonne Cole Georgina Jennsen ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3376 1140 E-mail: nicola@factlive.com PRINTED BY United Printing Press 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

fact magazine

13

MASH UP

twitter

instagram @factmagazine

FACT Bahrain

1,860 followers

@FACTbahrain

Combining all three editions of FACT in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain and Qatar, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from food shoots, local events and all things awesome in the GCC, plus loads more from the FACT team.

APRIL 2015 VOL 8. ISSUE 8 BD 1. SR10

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

facebook

tweets

FACT Bahrain

7,525 likes

fifi @hungry_fifi “Ps if you are curious about my late night drive thru order. I panic ordered the 1st thing I saw on the menu. Unlike in a restaurant u really feel the pressure to order quick at a drive thru. I’m not good with that kind of pressure.” (we feel your pain!).

Sheikh Spear

@FailedRckstr It’s nice to have someone dote over you with constant calls about your wellbeing and when you will be available for them Creditcard Salesmen.

Jamie Love Official

@OfficialJLUK Special thanks to @FACTbahrain where it all started 3 years ago! #throwback #topmodel Danny Sullivan

@DANNYSULLIVAN Oh Podrick, you can’t take him anywhere. #GameofThrones #GoT

Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine. Send us a message – we love to hear from our readers!

issuu.com

FACT Bahrain

Our Fave Feature

22,361 reads of the April issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features on local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and entertainment, in Bahrain.

app

FACT Bahrain

1,943 downloads Available for both android and iOS devices, keep your finger on the pulse with our interactive app.

Read and share your favourite articles on social media, and enjoy the benefit of monthly notifications for each new issue.

Globetrotter p31.

Follow us on twitter and maybe you’ll be here next month! @FACTbahrain 14

fact magazine

fact magazine

15

CHECK IT OUT

Fact Finds

Sweet Treats Done Retro Mama Style

If you’ve got a sweet tooth and find yourself craving for delicious, homemade, pies, cookies, cakes, and brownies, you’ll want to know all about Retro Mama Bakery & Café.

This cute and quaint 50s-style eatery is the brainchild of Mona Shakib, a lady who is a strong believer in the traditional values of home-cooked goodness. She uses the best quality ingredients for a hearty taste of baking with a genuine homely touch.

At Retro Mama everything is classic American. From alluring recipes like the eyecatching rainbow cake, and other American favorites such as fudge brownies and a variety of pies (cherry cheese pie, S’mores pie & many more). Here, it’s all about good food packed with mouthwatering flavor. All the recipes that Mona uses are self-taught and recipes that were passed on in her family as she reveals her love for traditional American desserts and pies started early, especially during her visits to the US every summer. She started baking all her favorite desserts at home until she began her own business that was based at home in 2008. By 2013 Retro Mama was officially born and operating in Reef Island.

Some of Retro Mama’s bestsellers include the Chocolate Surprise cupcake (with 16

fact magazine

cream cheese filling, topped with chocolate ganache – yum); and their key lime pie that’s very popular, too. The latter was falvourful with a beautiful crust and a refreshing, tangy lime taste with whipped cream – an absolute winning choice! Another thing that makes Retro Mama stand out is the venue itself; a charming café with quirky and characterful 50s memorabilia and décor.

“I came up with the idea of old-school, 1950s-style housewives,” Mona explains. “I went for the Retro pinup housewife look, since those days women cooked and baked and looked great while doing it. We put together pastel tones and it worked, I’m quite pleased with how it turned out,” she adds.

Other delicious menu items we’d highly recommend are the pumpkin pie, the peanut butter and chocolate cupcake and, our personal favorite, the red velvet cupcake.

Mona also takes orders for birthdays, weddings and other special occasions too!

“I wanted it to feel like home when people come here,” Mona says. “A cosy atmosphere with welcoming staff, great coffee and homemade desserts. What could be better?!”

Make Retro Mama your next foodie stop!

GO: Retro Mama is located on Reef Island. Visit www.retro-mama.net or call 3655 8558 for orders and more information.

fact magazine

17

LISTEN UP

Archaeologies of Green at Expo Milano 2015 Go Red With Bahrain Bus

The pavilion of the Kingdom of Bahrain at the Expo Milano 2015, entitled Archaeologies of Green, is built over an area of 2000sqm and is designed to raise awareness of Bahrain’s singular agricultural heritage and culture as well as the importance of sustainable development practices. It is a poetic interpretation of the cultural agrarian heritage of the country, which stems from the ancient civilisation of Dilmun. With ten distinctive fruit gardens, containing trees that will be fruit-bearing at different moments throughout the six-month duration of the exhibition, the pavilion also features archeological artifacts that celebrate the millennia long tradition of agriculture and perpetuate the many myths of Bahrain as the location of the Garden of Eden and the land of the million palm trees. Archaeologies of Green was designed by Dutch architect Anne Holtrop in collaboration with the landscape architect Anouk Vogel and is the first pavilion whose construction has been completed amongst 50 other national pavilions from around the world. Built out of white prefabricated concrete panels, the pavilion will be moved to Bahrain at the end of the Expo and once rebuilt will serve as a botanical garden. The prefabricated components of the buildings, visible through the seams that connect them to one another, loosely refer to the inherent and distinguished forms of the archaeology of Bahrain. Themed “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life,” the Expo Milano 2015 revolves around nutrition and sustainability, highlighting the importance of protecting the planet’s natural resources. Taking place between May 1 and October 31, over 20 million visitors from around the world are expected to visit the Expo in Milan.

GO: Visit www.expo2015.org for more information.

18

fact magazine

There’s no doubt that you’ll have seen red buses whizzing around the Kingdom and carrying passengers from a to b – we get a little excited every time we spot one on the road – after all, this mode of transportation has been a long time coming, and we welcome it with open arms. With more routes, more buses, and higher frequencies launched in April, the bus service is operated by Bahrain Public Transport in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation. This brandnew fleet of cutting-edge red MAN buses feature air-conditioning, low-floor easy access design, a high-level of comfort and interior trim, and facilities for wheelchair users, as well as priority seating for women, families and those who are less mobile. We love that, now, everyone has access to and from all major areas in Bahrain; from Manama to Muharraq, Juffair and Zallaq, Budaiya to Isa Town, and even Sitra, getting around the country has never been so efficient and cost-effective (only a cool 500 fils for a day ticket) as it is with the red bus! By August 2015 a fleet of over 140 buses will provide services across an expanded route network, fares will use a new zonal system and smartcard ticketing will be introduced to make travel simpler and easier for everyone. Pretty cool, right?

GO: Visit www.bahrainbus.bh for more information on routes and timetables.

fact magazine

19

LISTEN UP

Dubai, the New Global Convention Centre

ARTDIVANO The Passion For Art Art appreciators in Bahrain will be thrilled to learn that a brand new Bahrain based art consultancy, ARTDIVANO, is set to open for a range of artistic services later this month. Already with clients such as the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, and the Double Tree Hilton Qatar, ARTDIVANO is the brainchild of two “art passionistas” - Afaf Zainalabedin, a Bahraini former Banker, and Marion Labani, a German curator and artist herself, residing in Bahrain for 12 years. ARTDIVANO’s concept and philosophy is based on taking artworks by Arab artists and artists who have chosen the Arab world as their home, or who are translating the world’s heritage and culture into a unique language of coloUrs and materials, onto a new level. The “DIVAN” envisions the traditional way of storytelling in the Arab world and ARTDIVANO aims to spread the story of Art by and from the region, carrying the tradition from the past into the present and future. The motto here is “The Passion for Art”, and is driven by a strong expertise yet deep emotional approach to art and a belief that art without passion is nothing. The consultancy will help to showcase original art works of famous and upcoming artists such as sculptures, lithographs, paintings and photographs as well as fine art print reproductions through its Giclee Print Boutique produced with archival ink and archival media, to provide the highest standard of image reproduction currently available. So whether you want art for your home, business, office, or other projects, ARTDIVANO can help to add the right creative touch to your space.

GO: ARTDIVANO is located at Reem Centre, Office 217 in Riffa. Visit www.artdivano.com for more information.

20

fact magazine

Planners are convinced that Dubai will definitely achieve its target of attracting 20 million tourists annually by 2020.

Observers point out that the growth of tourism to Dubai is also largely influenced by the sector of Incentive Tourism in addition to individuals, families, and traditional sightseeing and shopping groups.

More and more companies from Europe, the Americas, and Asia are awarding their achieving staff by flying them to Dubai to participate in their own conventions and conferences held at exotic hotels, as well as in business hotels which offer golfing, sailing, desert safaris, and even snow skiing.

Amongst the last to be seen in Dubai participating to their 2015 Global Steering Committee Conference was the leadership team of the international advertising agency TBWA\WORLDWIDE. The company disrupted its convention of holding such meetings only in LA or Paris, and held their conference this year in Dubai to coincide with the 15th Anniversary of their Middle East North African Network, namely TBWA\RAAD. The TBWA participants flew in from New York, Los Angeles, Denver, Sao Paulo, Mexico City, Sydney, Singapore, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Paris, London, Dusseldorf, Algeria, Kuwait, Doha, and Beirut, to meet in Dubai where they all enjoyed every minute of their stay thanks to the wonderful advantages this city has to offer.

Peugeot 308

Peugeot 301

Peugeot 508

Peugeot Partner

MAY MADNESS

CATCH IT IF YOU CAN! This May, get ready for mind blowing offers and prices from Zayani Motors. Buy your new Peugeot and enjoy benefits like: • 10 years or 1 million kms warranty*

• Lowest prices*

*Terms & conditions apply.

Peugeot.bahrain www.peugeot-bahrain.com

PeugeotBah

Peugeot_bah

fact magazine Ma’ameer 17 703 703

21

LISTEN UP

A lph a b et s a nd S cu lp t u r e s A fascinating exhibition, titled Alphabets and Sculptures is currently on display at Albareh Art Gallery. The showcase is a joint exhibition of the latest works of two Bahraini artists, calligrapher Abdel Elah Al Arab and artist and sculptor Jamal Abdul Rahim. Abdel Elah Al Arab was born in Manama in 1954. He studied in Egypt, receiving a Diploma in Calligraphy in 1978 and a Specialised Diploma in Line, Gilding and Decoration in 1980. He has also trained under the tutelage of the distinguished Egyptian calligrapher Sayed Ibrahim. Al Arab is the founder of the Arabic Calligraphy School in Bahrain and a co-founder of the Bahrain Arts Society. His work is known for its precision as he gives form to Arabic calligraphy in an expressive, harmonious and skillful manner. He was entrusted with writing the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bahrain. Al Arab employs Islamic calligraphy, focusing on the Islamic Kufi text. His artwork ranges from classic inscriptions in black and white to fine art pieces rendered against colourful backgrounds swirling in tones of green, red, yellow, turquoise, black and gold. His contribution with Jamal Abdul Rahim and Adonis to ‘The Book’ enriched the work with superb Thuluth calligraphy.

Jamal Abdul Rahim was born in Muharraq, in 1965, where he continues to live and work today. While not subscribing to any particular school or technique, Abdul Rahim has the innate ability to form a language that goes directly to the heart. He is an artist who loves delving into matters that challenge him. He applies his modern touch in a seemingly random fashion and moulds all the things surrounding him in artistic form: paintings, etchings, prints and sculptures. Abdul Rahim has exhibited extensively in the region and internationally. His works are held in private and public collections including that of the British Museum and the Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore.

Local art enthusiasts, this will be right up your street!

GO: Alphabets and Sculptures will run at Albareh Art Gallery, Adliya, until May 27.

Get Ready For Reggae Who’s in the mood for a star studded reggae festival featuring The Wailers? Join Coral Bay in welcoming the summer season in Bahrain with none other than the original Bob Marley band, The Wailers, on Thursday May 14, by the beach.

Having sold over 250 million albums worldwide with Bob Marley, The Wailers are one of the most recognised reggae bands in the world and now’s your chance to see them perform live in a fantastic, soulful reggae setting with cool vibes and groovy tunes. The Wailers’ show promises to deliver a musical experience of a lifetime as you get to see the legends perform their hit songs like I Shot The Sheriff and Redemption Song amongst other worldwide hits. Formed almost 50 years ago by Bob Marley with Bunny Walker, Peter Tosh and the Barrett Brothers (Carlton and Aston), the Jamaican group is responsible for some of the best-loved reggae music to ever come out of the country. Make sure you’re a part of this extraordinary reggae event; the show starts from 9pm onwards and tickets will be available at Coral Bay for BD12.

GO: Call 1731 2700 or 3374 5547 for tickets and more information.

22

fact magazine

fact magazine

23

HAPPENINGS

Getting Out & About

This Month in Bahrain

Say goodbye to boredom this month and mark your diaries with these all-important dates. We’ve put together a calendar packed with happenings just for you! This is what FACT recommends (and you can still find more throughout the rest of the mag!).

7 10 12 15 18

Thursday

Sunday

Tuesday

Friday

Monday

Sub-Zero Event at Meisei

Dining Delights at Le Chocolat

Spirit of Thalassa at Sofitel Hotel

Trib Fest at Bahrain Rugby Club

The ‘Formula 8’ lunch at Café Amsterdam

Meisei is marking the return of summer with a Sub Zero event. Prepare for fun, innovative and interactive food like ice sculptures and ice cream made at your table using liquid nitrogen. Live entertainment will come from UK-saxophonist Sarah Chandler. Go on, beat the heat and plunge into the Asian Arctic at Meisei. Call 1700 7770 for

An evening with friends or a romantic dinner with your partner, Le Chocolat will cater for all. Enjoy French cuisine, including more than 30 artistic desserts, and beautiful blends of drinks. The menu includes everything from muthwatering pizzas to fresh salads and perfectly grilled burgers – take your pick for dinner this evening. Call 1711 1144

It’s that time of the year when you soak up the moment with the Thalassa seasonal offerings. Indulge in this rejuvenating package experience with relaxing treatments that include the 30-minute sea-water spa, 30-minute body wrap, 60-minute massage of your choice and 30-minute facial, priced at a cool BD155.

Trib Fest is Bahrain’s first open air family-friendly music festival made up of tribute acts from the UK. The artists will perform all the classic hits for you to sing-along.

The festival will be held from 10am to 10pm with additional attractions such as fairground rides, carnival acts, market stalls and plenty of food & beverage too. Visit www.

Indulge in a fulfilling lunch at Café Amsterdam with their new ‘Formula 8’ lunch special. The appetiser options range from red lentils to beef carpaccio. Mains include grilled fish of the day, and the classic homemade beef burger with hand cut fries. Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth with dark chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries. Call 1700

more information.

24

fact magazine

for more information.

Call 1763 6363 for more information.

tribfestbh.com for more information.

7404 for more information.

fact magazine

25

HAPPENINGS

Getting Out & About

This Month in Bahrain

Say goodbye to boredom this month and mark your diaries with these all-important dates. We’ve put together a calendar packed with happenings just for you! This is what FACT recommends (and you can still find more throughout the rest of the mag!).

2022262830

Wednesday

Friday

Tuesday

Thursday

Saturday

Sushi Wednesdays at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

After Brunch Party at JJ’s Irish Pub

New Fitness Classes at The Royal Golf Club

W Night at Bushido Lounge

Pamper yourself at Dessange

Every Wednesday at Thai Lounge, the Sushi Chef Sonny showcases his creations including a miso soup, a portion of edamame beans, a platter of sushi (1 choice of 4), and unlimited house beverages and Kirin Ichiban draught beer from 6pm to 11pm.

Priced at BD17 net.

The perfect outing with friends! Call 1758 0000 for

Head to JJ’s for a cracker of a party. The Queen of Dance Music - Tara McDonald, along with with French DJ Adam Trigger - performs live from 9.30pm onwards.

Warming up the crowd from 6pm is JJ’s resident DJ Tripz. Guaranteed to keep you on your feet the whole night! Tickets will be available at the door for BD10. Call 3932

Ladies can now enjoy both Hatha Yoga and Odaka Yoga once a week as well as Belly Dancing and Kangoo Jump classes. Children are spoilt for choice with new activities including basketball, swimming, Baby Clay, and lots more.

All classes and activities are open to members and visitors so go along and join in one today. Call 1775

Grab your girls and head down to Bushido for a real party! Strut your stuff to the sounds of live music by Dj Albert-L, from 9pm ‘til late. It’s free entry for all and ladies get free drinks throughout the night – what’s not to love? Don’t forget to dress to impress! A 21+ only event that is sure to create some memorable moments. Call 1758 3555 for

Dessange includes a wonderful array of exclusive treatments, including Moroccan baths, aromatic and energy boosting massages as well as effective facials, hydrotherapy and a number of assorted body and beauty treatments.

Head to the salon area for a haircut, manicure, pedicure or blow-dry. Call

more information.

26

fact magazine

9083 for more information.

0777 for more information.

more information.

1771 3999 for bookings and more information.

M I L L E - F E U I L L E: THE NEW FLAVORS

PAUL reinvents its classics by offering 5 new flavors, both gourmand and exotic.

Succumb for an innovative collection of Mille-feuille: Pistachio Raspberry, Mango Coco, Apple Vanilla, Passion Fruit and Pistachio Gianduja Chocolate.

Mille-feuille coconut mango

Discover the Mille-feuille in a different light, as nice to look as it is to taste.

Treat yourselves!

Mille-feuille pistachio raspberry

Mille-feuille pistachio Gianduja chocolate

Mille-feuille apple vanilla

Mille-feuille passion Jivara chocolate

magazine Bahrain City Centre: Tel. 1 717 2321 - Seef Mall: Tel. 1 758fact0073

27

DIARY DATES

GCC G ETAWAYS Thinking about jetting off around the region this month? We’ve rounded up some of the best hotels for you to stay in whilst exploring our lovely neighbouring nations…

Dubai

Abu Dhabi

Qatar

This five-star hotel is perfect for business and leisure travellers alike, located in the ‘heart’ of Dubai with the combination of the old and the new city experience.

Located alongside Dubai Creek, this hotel is short distance from the city’s main modern shopping malls, commercial & corporate districts and golf courses.

Total of 268 Guestrooms and Suites invites you to relax, re-energize and enjoy the beautiful views of Dubai. Some of the rooms have the panoramic and reflective views of the charming Dubai Creek. Modern facilities include WIFI, fitness centre, swimming pool, Sheraton Sweet Sleeper beds, multi-media hub, restaurants and lots more. (www.sheratondubaicreek.com).

Conveniently located, the ShangriLa’s lush garden landscapes place it in a serene, faraway world of its own.

The sprawling private beach dotted with comfy sunbeds and white sand is heavenly. Then there’s the hotel’s impressive architecture, with its fine Arabic décor, full of warm tones and textures. Facilities include 24-hour Business Centre, salon and Spa, WIFI, Airport Transfer, Gift Shop, Shopping Arcade, five restaurants and lots more.

Each of the 213 rooms feature a balcony or terrace with a breathtaking view over the creek. All rooms are elegantly appointed with modern facilities and lovely Arabian touches. (www.shangri-la.com).

The St. Regis Doha presents majestic interiors, an extensive range of leisure facilities and meeting space, making it the preferred retreat for both leisure and business travellers. The hotel introduces a collection of carefully selected restaurants, bars and lounges, including Gordon Ramsay and Hakkasan, where accomplished master chefs present exciting new fine dining experiences. You can also escape to a sanctuary of rejuvenation at the signature Remède Spa. All 336 guest rooms and suites offer extensive views over the Arabian Gulf ’s tranquil blue sea. With an exclusive private beach and discreet oceanfront cabanas, the hotel welcomes guests with unrivalled magnificence. (www.stregisdoha.com)

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

28

fact magazine

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri

St. Regis Doha

fact magazine

29

SOCIETY

#City #Centre #Bahrain #Furious-7 #Premiere City Centre Bahrain, hosted an exclusive event unveiling a month-long programme of motor racing themed activities and promotions. Guests admired the ultimate super car Lamborghini Huracan that a very lucky visitor of City Centre Bahrain will be taking home in the next couple of weeks. They also enjoyed the action and stunt-packed Furious 7, at an exclusive movie premiere screening.

30

fact magazine

Travel the World

We’re putting a fun spin on your travels this summer.

Check out everything from the world’s most colourful destinations, where to pick up unusual souvenirs, the best music festivals, and stunning landmarks. This is your 2015 Travel 101... fact magazine

31

GLOBETROTTER

Colour The World Check out some of the world’s most colourful destinations to inspire your next holiday…

San Francisco, California - USA Not only will you get to see the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco, you’ll get to wander its beautiful steep streets lined with adorable Victorian-style buildings. One of the most famous amongst these is Alamo Square’s “postcard row” at Hayes and Steiner Streets – rightly dubbed The Painted Ladies. It’s indeed a visual treat of an escalating formation of Victorian houses with the backdrop of downtown San Fran’s skyscrapers, capturing the stunning contrast of city’s traditional and modern architecture. The grassy square itself is an ideal mid-day break and we’d recommend staying at one of the bed and breakfast inns in the heart of this colourful block during your visit. Fly: Etihad Airways (www.etihad.com).

Burano Island, Venice - Italy Think rainbow colours reflected in the green waters – this is Burano, a pretty island located 40 minutes from Venice, with old-school colourful houses. Home to big artists like Baldassarre Galuppi, Remigio Barbaro and Pino Donaggio, Burano is not only intriguing for its rainbow shades, but for its quaint squares. The typical Burano house is mainly square in shape and divided into two or three floors, boasting balconies dotted with multicoloured flowers.

We love that colour is serious business here – the local council uses historical records to decide which colour a resident should paint their home. This pretty destination should definitely please those travellers looking for character and culture from their next trip.

Fly: Turkish Airlines (www.turkishairlines.com).

32

fact magazine

La Boca, Buenos Aires Argentina

Nyhavn, Copenhagen Denmark

The southern Buenos Aires neighbourhood of La Boca is massively famous for Caminito, the colorful artists’ street by the water. Caminito is the work of local artist Benito Quinquela Martín. In 1960 he painted the walls of what was then an abandoned street and it quickly became a haven for artists and performers. With its cobblestones, colorful corrugated-iron houses and use of traditional street lamps, these days Caminito is full of touts, hawkers, hustlers, overpriced knick-knacks and food. For its all-round South American flair, this place is worth a visit. Fly: Qatar Airways (www.qatarairways.com).

Packed with bars, restaurants and people who want to party, Nyhavn has become one of Copenhagen’s much-loved neighbourhoods. The 17th century waterfront and entertainment district is home to lots of colourful buildings, which are perfect for visiting in the summer to experience the lovely al fresco dining culture. Nyhavn was originally a busy commercial port where ships from all over the world would dock. Today, classy restaurants dominate the old port with people enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and great food by the canal. Fly: KLM (www.klm.com).

Pamper your mum in May Every Friday Brunch

50% off for your Mother with a homemade gift

Every Friday of May 2015 From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM Offer her an exquisite Mediterranean Brunch with 50% off the public rate, which means; 9.5 BD Net for her Brunch with soft drinks, or 12.5 BD Net for her Brunch with selected beverages Please call us at 17280700 for any reservations or book online on www.nicolesbh.com

fact magazine

33

GLOBETROTTER

Japan

China

Australia

With over 6,800 islands, Japan is a lush place to visit. Beautiful and unusual, famed for scrumptious sushi and teppanyaki, Japan has it all; for foodies, shopaholics, adventurers et al. For fashionistas and gadget geeks, shopping will be a guilty pleasure.

You can only imagine what unique souvenirs you’ll be able to take home. How about some KitKat; 20 flavours that can’t be found anywhere else in the world; Kiwi, Banana, grilled sweet potato, which one do you fancy? Yukata sets are very common in tourist areas and Omamori is a cute souvenir to gift; Japanese amulets are commonly sold at religious sites providing various forms of luck or protection. Fly: Etihad Airways (www.etihad.com).

China is filled with wonderful and quirky products which double as awesome souvenirs for travellers to take home. Chinese Qipao, silk, Chinese tea, tea sets, antiques; handicrafts, jades, and, of course, first copy branded bags are a must-have during a trip in China. In Beijing head to the outdoor markets at Panjiayuan Collection Street, Xiushui Street, and Liulichang Street for local specialties. But we suggest taking home a bottle of Snake Whiskey as the ultimate souvenir gift.

This alcoholic beverage is produced by infusing snakes in rice wine or grain alcohol; as argh as it sounds, this has medicinal value!

Sip cocktails in funky bars in the ultimate land of Aussies. Get going on your Oz adventure with skydiving, horseback riding, snorkelling and lots more. Dine with a fantastic view or go on a wildlife cruise – this country will not disappoint.

When it comes to souvenirs, you have to pick up the Kangaroo Scrotum Pouch (available in different sizes). This pouch is made from the scrotum of the male kangaroo, as it’s proven to be very lucky; all those in possession of one are assured of fun, long living, happy and healthy children. Simply for its quirky points, this gift is sure to get a few giggles, but we can guarantee that you’ll be one of the very few with a genuine Kangaroo Scrotum Pouch.

Fly: Emirates (www.emirates.com).

Fly: Cathay Pacific (www.cathaypacific.com).

Souvenir Sass Maldives Hello beautiful Maldives! A honeymoon spot for some and a rejuvenating holiday for others, Maldives is usually at the forefront when planning a paradise getaway. And there is one exclusively unique souvenir you should think about taking home from here - Elephant Dung Coffee Black Ivory. Yes! You read it right; this is the most expensive coffee and can be found in five star hotels in the Maldives and Thailand. This exotic brew is made from beans eaten by Thai elephants and plucked a day later from their dung. A gut reaction inside the elephant creates the coffee’s unique taste. This is THE most expensive coffee you’ll get your hands on!

Fly: Sri Lankan Airlines (www.srilankan.com).

34

fact magazine

Picking up souvenirs for friends and family is a must when you visit a new place.

We’ve picked out the best countries for their stock of weird and quirky souvenirs.

fact magazine

35

City LivinG Looking to avoid tourist traps? Head to one of these hidden gems to explore what life has to offer on a city break...

Tallinn, Estonia If you’re under the impression that ‘former soviet’ means grey and gloomy, Tallinn will prove you wrong. This Estonian city is full of character; catch a glimpse of the country’s past in the impressive Old Town with its mishmash of medieval pathways, church spires and baroque palaces, or soak up the vibe at one of the shiny shopping malls, glass skyscrapers or cute cafes in the sunny squares. Exploring on foot is the best way to take in Tallinn’s wonderful fairy-tale charm and visit the attractions. There are tons of art and culture hotspots such as Rocca-al-Mare Open Air Museum, the onion-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the buzzing Town Hall Square and St Olaf’s church - its spire was once the tallest in the world. Fly: KLM (www.klm.com).

Fez, Morocco

Baku, Azerbaijan

Bologna, Italy

Azerbaijan is a country at a crossroads between Eastern Europe and Western Asia,enriched with history, culture, music and great food. Baku holds tight to its traditions; one of them being sports. This summer would be a great time to go and join in the European Games celebrations with an ongoing light festival and extravagant shopping deals.

Marvel stunning sunsets, relax on the beautiful beaches, wander the inner city with its 12thcentury fortifications like the legendary Maiden Tower, and stop off at the Opera houses, branded boutiques, magnificent gardens and art galleries and museums. Fly: FlyDubai (www.flydubai.com).

Often referred to as the country’s gourmet capital, Bologna is not only a haven for foodies but, it’s a city of two intriguing halves that secretly waits to be discovered. On one side you’ve got the super-rich, hi-tech and very elegant Po valley with its regal theatres and some of Italy’s finest restaurants. On the other is a down-to-earth, politically-edgy side, home to the world’s oldest university as well as graffiti-painted piazzas. Meander past the medieval terracotta buildings to Piazza Maggiore, overlooked by the stunning 14th century church, the Basilica di San Petronio. It’s the perfect photo-opp!

36

fact magazine

Fly: Turkish Airlines (www.turkishairlines.com).

If you’re looking for an authentic Moroccan experience, Fez is just the place for this. The trick here is to dive straight in. Head to the medina of Fes el-Bali (Old Fez) – the city’s greatest allure that still holds onto Berber traditions. Made up of narrow alleyways and lanes, bursting with covered bazaars selling arts, crafts, clothes, shoes, aromatic spices, and endless little knick-knacks, the fun begins once you get lost and let yourself become a part of these winding walkways. The ancient skyline is dotted with satellite dishes and beautiful Mosque minarets, whilst every new turn reveals another fascinating piece of Fez through hidden squares and exquisite fountains. If you want a glimpse of how Fez does modern then head to Ville Nouvelle. For arts, check out the excellent Batha Museum, and, most of all, once you’re settled into the pace of this mesmerising city, don’t forget to stop off at a local café for a cup of the famous Moroccan mint tea in its homeland.

Fly: Etihad Airways & Royal Air Maroc (www. etihad.com and www.royalairmaroc.com).

At Café Amsterdam, we know that it is important to have a good, healthy lunch. Enjoy our new range of innovative main course salads, choose your favourites from our fresh salad buffet trolley or indulge in our ‘Formula 8’ lunch special, where you can pick your choice of three dishes for BD8, or two dishes for BD6. Healthy, flavourful and affordable, our new lunch menu will transform the rest of your day.

Opposite the Gulf Hotel, Adliya. Telephone: +973 1700 7404 fact magazine

37

Disney Cruise Planning a family vacation with kids? The Disney Cruise line is the best choice; familyfriendly fun unlimited. The line offers a Walt Disney Theatre and the Buena Vista Cinema, which features Disney flicks, daily. The Disney digital 3D aboard is a cinema experience that uses lasers, fog, streamers and special lighting effects. The spa is off-limits to youngsters and one of the highlights is its rain forest steam room – perfect for mum and dad’s me-time.

There are supervised games for all age groups and Disney character appearances are scheduled several times a day.

Adventure On Sea Take a real break from the everyday grind and see the world from the sea. We bring you some of the best cruise lines to sail away with...

(www.disneycruise.disney.go.com).

Cunard Line Take a Cunard voyage and enjoy the renowned elegance, spacious luxury and excellent service that has attracted discerning travellers for decades. The cruise line offers excellent facilities ranging from entertainment and leisure options, available as you travel on the ocean. When you really want to indulge, spend the day pampering yourself in the spa with a hot stone massage.

Treat yourself to one of the famous martinis in the Commodore club. Enjoy extraordinary shopping at top boutiques and brands or simply soak up your surroundings on deck. A holiday with Cunard is all about relaxation and taking it easy. (www.cunard.com).

Norwegian Cruise Line

Whether you seek adrenaline or total tranquillity, take the Royal Caribbean Cruise and enjoy the exquisite onboard experience. Try rock climbing; ice skating and surfing 200 feet above the waves.

Melt away the land-based stress with a spa massage, build a scrapbook of memories or simply relax poolside. Dining is a fulfilling experience; from casual to sophisticated, cupcakes to canapés, sample an array of options – many of them all inclusive. Casino Royale is the highlight. Try your hand at cards, spin to win at roulette, and hit it big time with the pull of a slot machine. With late hours and plenty of entertainment, this is THE cruise to have a great time while sailing to your next destination.

Norwegian Cruise offers freedom and flexibility to do what you want, when you want. Tantalising dining options at sea, dazzling entertainment and exciting onboard activities; there’s plenty of ways to make your vacation a memorable one. Bask in the bright lights of Broadway with performances like Rock of Ages and Legally Blonde. Go wild with Nickelodeon activities.

Tickle your funny bone with The Second City or get lucky at the award-winning Casinos at Sea. With up to 22 bars and lounges to discover, finding your favourite may take a few days. This is a genuine on-the-sea journey!

(www.royalcaribbean.com).

(www.ncl.com).

Royal Caribbean International

38

fact magazine

Ca 75 ll to 1 bo 262 ok 17

World Beverage Tour!

Thursday 14th May

Come along to the Royal Golf Club’s first ever World Beverage Tour! The evening will feature a live DJ, mouthwatering barbecue and international stations serving a range of beverages from Belgium, Japan, France, Chile, South Africa, Mexico and more.

When: Tickets:

Thursday 14th May poolside from 7:00pm to 10:00pm Club Members BD 18 net / Non members BD 22 net

To reserve your ticket, call the Club on +973 17 751262.

fact magazine

oongolf.com

39

WWW.TROONGOLF.COM WWW.THEROYALGOLFCLUB.COM

Voodoo Music Experience, New Orleans - USA When: October 31 – November 1 2015 Line-Up: TBA

Rounding off a long summer of incredible festivals is the annual Voodoo Music Experience, which casts a weekend-long spell of music, art, food, crafts and culture on New Orleans. For three whole days, Voodoo takes over City Park, challenging the typical summer fests with a lively attitude of its own. There are, usually, two main stages and several smaller ones, alongside countless food and beverage vendors as well as local shops selling everything from clothing to jewellery, art, New Orleans trinkets and memorabilia, and everything in between. To top this off, City Park is located a short 15 minutes drive from the French Quarter and Downtown – both well worth visiting if you’re a jazz and blues fan and a hardcore foodie. This one’s for festival die-hards looking to cap off an awesome summer of music with one more weekend of watching huge-name acts. Tickets are available for single days or weekend passes, as well as VIP all-access passes. You can find more information online at www.worshipthemusic.com.

Wireless Festival, London – England

When: June 28, and July 3 - 5.

2015 marks the 10th birthday of Wireless and there will be two big events to mark this milestone. Wireless 10 on June 28, celebrating the anniversary with a line-up of old-school names and established new talent - Drake, Rita Ora, Public Enemy, and De La Soul - to name but a few. This is followed by the main threeday Wireless Weekend festival packed with chart-topping and up-and-coming artists (www.wirelessfestival. co.uk). Whilst you’re there, visit iconic landmarks or head to the more quirky side of London at Camden Lock, Spitalfields or Portobello Road, for great food and unusual finds. Fly: British Airways (www.britishairways.com).

Fly: Etihad Airways (www.etihad.com).

Festival Fever Summer 2015 promises an amazing line-up of world festivals – we tell you where to go and party to the best beats…

40

fact magazine

Flow Festival, Helsinki - Finland

When: August 14 - 18 Flow is tantamount for providing a great balance of live music with plenty of local Finnish touches.

Number one; the festival’s site used to be a gasworks, number two; it brings to the stage big international names alongside edgier artists and Finns of all shapes, sizes and styles, and number three; there’s exceptionally good food and drink, as well as arts installations and kid-friendly areas too.

Flow is full on festival escapism and located only a short walk away from the centre of Helsinki (ww. flowfestival.com). Fly: Finnair (www.finnair.com).

Oya Festival, Oslo Norway

When: August 11 - 15 This is one of the most greenest and awesomely organised festivals in Europe. This is how it goes down at Øya; bands will hit the stage on time.

There’s no queuing. There are plenty of bathrooms.

Food trucks and vendors go above and beyond, serving everything from organic local fare like gravlaks (sugar and spice coated salmon) all whilst global rock stars make noise next to avant-garde Scandinavian bands in the historic grounds of the city’s Medieval Park. The real fun is the eclectic mish-mash of music. Fly: KLM (www.klm.com).

fact magazine

41

GLOBETROTTER

A Foodie Calling Some of the world’s best food is served and eaten on the side of the road from trucks and vendors. We delve into the buzzing street food scene for a round up of some of the world’s best.

Singapore

Marrakech, Morocco

The street food in Singapore is deviously addictive with scrumptious options, being both affordable and delicious. Head to Chinatown market where you can find numerous food vendors offering up authentic Southeast Asian dishes. Tuck into the Tian Tian Chicken rice here or the popular Satay, which has lines of strrets dedicated to it. Satay by the Bay offers a sizzling array of stalls selling Malay-style Satay dishes. Other popular street food enclaves include Balestier, Joo Chiat, Geylang and Little India. Fly: Etihad Airways (www.etihad.com).

With subtle spices and intriguing flavours, Morocco offers aromatic, lip-smacking delicacies. Visit Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakech where everything from juicy kebab dishes, traditional tagines and even the more peculiar, like cooked snails, are served out of food carts. Indulge in tea time and breakfast sweets, simple snacks, grilled meats and seafood, fried fish and hearty main dishes such as stewed lentils, rotisserie chicken and classic cous cous.

Must-try dishes include Bessara, Crumbed liver, Spicy sardines and Brochettes to name but a few. Food is serious business here and we love it! Fly: Alitalia (www.alitalia.com).

Istanbul, Turkey

Mumbai, India Street food in India is world famous! Each city has its specialties and they will blow your tastebuds away.

Mumbai is the place where the famous Vada Pav originates. The sweet and spicy chutneys are simply yum and the chaat items like sev puri, bhel puri, and pani puri are snack options on-the-go. Pav Bhaji is another mouthwatering dish prepared with butter and vegetables – not the healthiest, but definitely worth trying. You can find street vendors here making egg delights from 10pm until late night. From boiled, scrambled, sunny side up and even omelettes – these are India’s equivalent to good after-night-out grub.

Desserts are famous too, like Kulfi, Gola, and Orange candy; all sold on streets! The street food culture in India is BIG and Mumbai will give you a good introduction. Fly: Etihad Airways (www.etihad.com).

42

fact magazine

Street food is a tradition of its own in Istanbul.

You will stumble upon food vendors around every corner of the city, serving delicious grub that will please your taste buds. Istanbul is full of choice; just out-of-the-oven Simit or Balik Ekmek, often the aroma of these delectable dishes lingers through the streets. Try the Doner, Kebabs, Borek and Pilav. Other yummy savoury varieties include Açma, Pogaça and Çigköfte.

The dishes are mainly meat or fish based, either grilled or sandwiched, making every meal exciting and easy to consume on-the-go.

Fly: Etihad Airways (www.etihad.com).

fact magazine

43

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Petra, Jordan You will recognise this world wonder from the Indiana Jones films, among others, and Petra is a place nothing short of awe-inspiring. The Arabian historical and archaeological city is famous for being cut and carved into the face of sheer red rock by the Nabatean people who settled in the area more than 2000 years ago and also, famously, formed a water conduit system used as a gateway for trade routes including silks and spices. The most famous structure in the city is the Treasury, though there is so much more to see. To this day, Petra is Jordan’s most treasured landmark and visitors should put aside 4-5 days to really explore the city. Fly: Gulf Air (www.gulfair.com).

Western Australia If you’re looking for something a little more rugged, yet equally jaw-dropping, head to Western Australia for The Pinnacles and Wave Rock. The first is a spectacular desert landscape within Nambung National Park, located 245km north of Perth. This place resembles something out of a sci-fi film with thousands of eerie limestone pillars scattered about the yellow sands. A four-hour drive from Perth is Wave Rock, a 14-metre-high and 110-metrelong granite formation shaped like a tall breaking ocean wave. It forms the north side of a solitary hill - Hayden Rock - and its shape is the result of millions of years of weathering and water erosion.

Fly: Etihad Airways to Perth (www.etihad.com).

44

fact magazine

Wander the World’s Wonders Landmarks can be natural wonders, man-made structures or just popular sites that travellers like to visit. Here are some of the world’s most breathtaking…

Brazil’s capital is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Christ the Redeemer, standing 40-metres tall. The concrete and soapstone-made statue towers above the city, and is just a half-hour drive from two other must-visit stops - Sugarloaf Mountain and Rio’s most-famous beach, Copacabana. Cable cars carry visitors to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain where stunning views can be enjoyed. It’s also the most popular urban rock climbing destinations in the world! Copacabana beach is where you’ll want to lay to catch some rays and experience a slice of Brazilian life. The crescent shaped stretch of sand is bordered by Sugarloaf Mountain on one end and the former Copacabana Fort on the other. Fly: Emirates (www.emirates.com).

Plitvice, Croatia Think Rivendell from Lord of the Rings and then Google Plitvice Lakes National Park. Straight out of a fairytale, right? Often overlooked, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the best natural landmarks in Eastern Europe. This maze of lakes, streams, rivers and waterfalls is surrounded by lush greenery and clear turquoise waters, all making for fantastic hiking, cycling and waling trails as well as boat trips and panoramic train rides. The reality of this area, however, lies in conflict and war, but with its history well behind it, the park has now become a place of ultimate serenity.

Fly: KLM to Zagreb (www.klm.com).

fact magazine

45

Honeymoon Escapes After the big ‘I do’, the next step is taking off for a honeymoon.

Deciding the place can be quite a task, so we bring you some cool places for a memorable escapade.

Jamaica, Caribbean Loosen up and get ready for a Jamaican retreat. This place is a paradise where you’ll have a mix of happy days and vivid nights, making your honeymoon a fun getaway with loads of festivities in store. Shop in Jamaica and bring home a part of the island living with you. Party hard with reggae beats, live music and dancing on the beach ‘til dawn. Explore the spirit of Jamaica through an adventure spree; go hiking, horseback riding and warm river swims. Sit by the sandy stretches of crystal clear beaches and enjoy the serenity. Try some of the exotic Jamaican dishes for the true island-style dining feel. Couples are in for a complete treat, as Jamaica is nothing short of spectacular. Fly: Etihad Airways and jetBlue (www.etihad.com and www.jetblue.com).

Bora Bora, French Polynesia Escape to the romantic island of Bora Bora with your sweetheart for a starry-eyed getaway. With all the plush hotels and sea views, it’ll bring out the romantic side of you. Bora Bora is one of the few places on earth that everyone hopes to visit in their lifetime — and once you see it, you are forever enamoured. Shop at the local boutiques, dine at the fancy restaurants, go hiking or simply relax at the beach. Bora Bora will never be forgotten; it will be etched in your memory forever. Fly: Etihad Airways to LAX (www.etihad. com) and continue with Air France and Air Tahiti.

46

fact magazine

Bahamas, Caribbean

Bali, Indonesia

Spend one day on a remote island, the next in a bustling metropolis, the Bahamas welcomes you to 700 tropical islands to explore making your honeymoon the best days of your life.

Couples can enjoy peaceful seclusion and natural beauty, both on land and sea. Spend cosy moments at the beautiful sandy beaches to see the sparkle of the moonlight and have a sweet conversation with a glass of vino. The Bahamas are aptly exotic for a spot of serene honeymooning. Fly: British Airways (www.

The magical island of Bali has impeccable landscapes and cultural treasures to explore with your better half. Fly down to this stunning environment and have the time of your life.

Go east to see the majestic ‘mother temple’ of Besakih or travel to the heart where rice paddies offer scenic photo opportunities. From supreme vistas to cultural performances, there is something for everyone. Bali has beaches, surfing, diving, and resorts, making it so much more than just a fun-in-the-sun retreat.

britishairways.com).

Fly: Qatar Airways (www.qatarairways.com).

fact magazine

47

GLOBETROTTER

N o V isa N eeded !

Sometimes applying for and obtaining a visa can be a long and tiresome process when you plan your vacay. A valid passport, return tickets, hotel accommodation and sufficient funds is what the below countries demand. Either no visa is needed or most nationalities get visa on arrival. That’s pretty cool, right?

Seychelles Seychelles highly promotes tourism, and why not? The stunning white sand beaches are simply serene. Therefore there is no visa requirement to enter the country.

Where to stay: Four Seasons Resorts Seychelles Fly with: Etihad Airways Attractions: Mahe Island, Anse Intendance, La Digue, Morne Seychellois National Park, Cousin Island.

Mauritius

Where to stay: The Oberoi, Mauritius Fly with: Emirates Airline Attractions: Flic-en-Flac, Water sports, Tamarind Falls.

Maldives To enter Maldives no pre-arrival visa is required.

A thirty day free visa is issued on arrival for all Nationalities are provided.

Where to stay: Gili Lankanfushi Maldives Fly with: Qatar Airways Attractions: Banana Reef, Scuba Diving and Snorkelling, Maldives Victory.

48

fact magazine

Hong Kong

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong Fly with: Emirates Airline Attractions: Disneyland, Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong Wet Land Park, Victoria Peak.

Macau

Where to stay: Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16 Fly with: Gulf Air + Air Macau Attractions: Taipa Village, Casino hopping, visit Zhuhai, Senado Square, Macau Tower.

fact magazine

49

GLOBETROTTER GO: Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers is located 7km from Dubai International Airport. Call +971 4228 1111 for bookings and more information.

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers With modern elegance and warm Arabian hospitality, Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers re-opens after extensive renovation. The 36-year-old iconic hotel reinforces its position as a landmark hotel and will continue to be a choice gathering place for global travellers and the local community.

Located at the Creeks edge with uninterrupted water and city views, the hotel’s new design offers a stylish relaxing escape from the bustling city for business and leisure travellers. A large sum of US$50 million was invested into the refurbishment to create an uplifting atmosphere with stateof-the-art amenities and service to guests.

Situated in the heart of Dubai’s heritage, the hotel offers guests the chance to discover the authenticity of traditional Dubai markets, such as the Spice, Gold and Textile Souks.

Rooms The 268 guestrooms and suites provide a stylish, relaxing escape from the bustling city for both business and leisure travellers. The brand new rooms offer the perfect setting of style and technology. The contemporary rooms feature enhanced technology with a 42 inch LED television, media hub and WIFI. The Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed, especially designed for Starwood hotels, allow you to have a blissful sleep. Shine for Sheraton Bath amenities, in room safe, iron, Nespresso machine and much more define the hotel’s effort to create a modern atmosphere for guests. The room types include; Junior Suite, Executive Suite, Twin Room, Creek View Room and the Royal Suite.

Culinary Variety The hotel offers an array of dining experiences with the best of world cuisine in each of their restaurants. Vivaldo by Alfredo 50

fact magazine

Russo offers a creative gastronomic menu created by Michelin-starred chef Alfredo Russo. Ashiana, the Indian restaurant will now present a menu designed by Michelin-starred Vineet Bhatia and will hereby be called Ashiana by Vineet. Enjoy the theatre of cooking at the live-action Creekside Japanese Restaurant, seeing chefs in action at the Teppanyaki Grill, Wok or Seafood stations. The famous English Pub, Chelsea Arms, continues to offer a truly British experience. The Lobby Café serves a wide selection of cakes and pastries round the clock, as well as afternoon tea.

Hatta is the new restaurant introduced after the renovation. This fills the blank of an International buffet restaurant, offering a relaxed atmosphere for breakfast and lunch.

Modern facilities The hotel offers extensive meeting and function rooms, with the elegant Dubai Ballroom accommodating up to 500 guests.

The hotel lobby features the Link @Sheraton experience with Microsoft – a signature social technology hub where guests can enjoy complimentary WIFI to stay connected. The 24-hour fitness facility is designed exclusively for Sheraton guests through its partner Core Performance. Sheraton Club guests can enjoy exclusive access to the Sheraton Club Lounge for private check-in and checkout, complimentary Continental breakfast, afternoon tea, evening drinks and snacks, as well as refreshments throughout the day.

#InDubai We’ve picked some of the best posts and pictures shared to twitter and instagram to inspire your next trip to Dubai. With so many exciting activities and iconic hotspots, get planning today! fact magazine

51

hotel hotspot

Mercure Grand Hotel If location is key for your stay in Bahrain, look no further than the Mercure Grand Hotel in Seef. With a prime position just minutes away from all the major shopping malls and Bahrain International Exhibition Centre, and with easy links to the highway, this hotel caters to both short breaks and longer stays…

W

hen you’re staying in Bahrain, the Seef area is much sought after for its massive range of entertainment and shopping options. The Mercure Grand Hotel Seef is different from any other in Bahrain, with a more traditional feel.

Though its décor is contemporary, and very comfortable there are still subtle touches like curved archways and patterned designs in the architecture that add to the vision of real Arabian hospitality. Greeted by the friendly staff, check-in is a smooth process and we’re soon ushered to our executive two-bedroom suite to begin our stay at Mercure Grand Hotel Seef.

52

fact magazine

hotel hotspot

Executive Two-Bed Suite Upon entering the suite, we were pleasantly surprised to find how spacious it was. The living room has an ample sitting area with a large couch, work desk, satellite TV, and even a dining table, on which we find a basket of fresh fruits as a warm welcome gesture. Adjacent to this is a good-sized, fully-equipped kitchen with everything from a cooker, fridge/freezer, storage space, and all the appliances you would expect from a quality kitchen area. There’s one master room with a king size bed and en-suite bathroom; and one twin room with a bathroom right opposite. Our first thought is how perfect this suite is for visiting families as well as groups of friends.

Amenities include interactive televisions, DVD players, minibar, AC, tea and coffee maker, free Wi-Fi, and over-sized glassenclosed showers. This is comfortable living!

Dining Delights When it comes to dining, you have three wonderful choices for quality food and beverages. There’s Neyran Restaurant, which features contemporary delicacies with Mediterranean influence; Casa Bar for a relaxing ambiance with live entertainment; or the Sama Rooftop Terrace, beside the pool, with its fantastic panoramic views. Neyran Restaurant carries a rustic and charming décor with an authentic Mediterranean feel. The breakfast is especially good here with an extensive range of both hot and cold varieties – the Omelette is a must-try, with your choice of filling, and we must recognise the efficient service of the staff here too – big tick!

Fab Facilities As well as having a dedicated selection of spaces that are ideal for board meetings, product launches, presentations or seminars, the hote;l boasts a lovely rooftop pool and a well-equipped Health & Recreation Centre. The Health & Recreation Centre boasts panoramic views of the Manama skyline and offers exercise equipment and facilities that include a pool, sauna, and steam room. The gym features cardiovascular equipment and an extensive range of weight-training machines and free weights. And when you want total escape, book yourself a treatment at the hotel’s spa for some much-needed me-time.

GO: Visit www.mercurebahrain.com or call 1758 4400 for reservations and more information.

fact magazine

53

SOCIETY

#Little #Masters #Art #Competition

The Children’s Palace organised a children’s drawing competition; Little Masters Art Competition which was held at Seef Mall Muharraq. Six winners were felicitated with prizes at The Children’s Palace store at the mall. A special Spring-Summer 2015 preview took place at the venue for the guests and winners.

54

fact magazine

S l av s a n d Tata r s : M i r r o r s f o r P r i n c e s

One of the most intriguing art exhibitions to come to the region is currently on display at the New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) Art Gallery; presented by the art collective Slavs and Tatars, this major solo showcase is their most ambitious and immersive installation to date. FACT’s Shabana Adam chats with Gallery Director and Curator, Maya Allison, to learn more about the exhibition... fact magazine

55

ARTS

When I heard that Slavs and Tatars was coming to Abu Dhabi to showcase the collective’s incredible work, there was jump for joy and a feeling of excitement for all the art enthusiasts in the city.

This is their most ambitious and immersive installation to date, with new work occupying the 7,000-square-foot exhibition space at NYUAD Art Gallery.

The exhibition and accompanying book trace the current obsession with self-help to a medieval genre of political science, “Mirrors for Princes,” shared among Christian and Muslim lands, with Machiavelli’s The Prince being the most famous example.

At NYUAD Art Gallery the artists look to these texts as an urgent precedent of generosity and critique, and as a case study of the balance between faith and state, issues that continue to resonate today across the Middle East, North America and Europe.

For those who may not be familiar with this art collective, who exactly are Slavs and Tatars? “This is a group of artists who, together, create art installations, books, and performances,” says Maya Allison, Gallery Director and exhibition curator. “They started as a book group, reading about the cultural history of the Islamic world, and from that began producing books that connected those readings to contemporary questions and issues. “The group describes itself as ‘a faction of polemics and intimacies devoted to an area east of the former Berlin Wall and west of the Great Wall of China.’ They are best known for their use of a playful presentation style to disarm and engage viewers in the content of the research underlying their work,” she adds.

In the exhibition, visitors traverse three environments, each radically different from the last. The first is a five-channel audio installation in which a series of mirrored speakers, arranged on traditional book stands, play excerpts from an 11th-century, Turkic “mirror for prince” called Kutadgu Bilig (Wisdom of Royal Glory), in five 56

fact magazine

languages (Turkish, Uighur, Polish, German, and Arabic).

Next, a dark, psychedelic gallery holds a series of glowing, fetishistic sculptures that explore the text’s concern with grooming, both one’s hair as well as one’s heart and one’s tongue. Finally, visitors discover a serene teahouse and reading room, where the books available are curated by the artists from the NYU Abu Dhabi library collection, and merge with their art practice. “They [Slavs and Tatars] make art installations – sculptures and images, but also entire environments, such as a teahouse or a dark, mysterious room, where the mood itself is part of the work,” Maya explains. “All of their art has a very playful quality. They link witty, irreverent, creative practice to scholarly and field research, so naturally they are ideal for a University gallery audience, and its surrounding community.

“Like many in the NYUAD academic community, the artists work at the intersection of multiple histories, in this case from Eastern Europe to Western China,” she says. “Their projects resonate with the regional audience, and with the diverse community within NYUAD’s student body and faculty.”

Maya tells me that it has been a wonderful experience bringing a university gallery into existence. I’m curious to know if she faced any challenges with putting together this particular exhibition.

“The biggest challenge was simply making sure people know that it is happening,” she says. “As a new space on a university campus, it’s important that people understand that we are exhibiting shows in the format of a museum: the work is not for sale, the artwork comes from established artists, and our shows run for two to three months,” Maya adds. One of her favourite pieces on display at Mirrors for Princes is Fingerling, a sculpture that shows hands holding thread, as if at a salon, to thread facial hair, but on that thread are rosary beads.

“All of their art has a very playful quality.

They link witty, irreverent, creative practice to scholarly and field research, so naturally they are ideal for a University gallery...”

ARTS

Slavs and Tatars make art installations – sculptures and images, but also entire environments.

fact magazine

57

ARTS

“Right now, we hope to create a space where creative individuals and scholars and people who love art can all come together and grow into a community of friends and colleagues.”

01

“It captures how these artists combine ‘grooming’ in the salon sense with ‘grooming’ of one’s spiritual practice – it’s playful, but also responding to the more serious work of these ‘Mirrors for Princes’ to groom our future leaders to be good leaders,” Maya says.

In conjunction with the exhibition, a book titled Mirrors for Princes has been published by JRP|Ringier, edited

by Anthony Downey of Ibraaz, and commissioned by the NYUAD Gallery for the Mirrors for Princes exhibition cycle, in collaboration with the other venues. As for the growing art scene in Abu Dhabi, Maya believes that there are many creative people here, and the promise of great museums to come is exciting. She says: “Right now, we hope to create a space where creative individuals and scholars and people who love art can all come together and grow into a community of friends and colleagues.

All art ‘scenes’ need that, and everyone, from artists to engineers, from students to families, thrive when communities have a variety of artistic nourishment to offer.” I couldn’t agree more!

GO: The Slavs and Tatars: Mirrors for Princes exhibition will run until May 30 at NYUAD Art Gallery. Visit www.nyuad-artgallery.org or call (0)2 628 8000 for more information

58

fact magazine

fact magazine

59

REVIEWS

Big Screen

Welcome to Me What’s it about?

Alice Kleig (Kristen Wiig) is a single woman with borderline personality disorder who ends up winning $86 million in the lotto. She quits her meds and and buys herself a talk show on an infomercial network for $15 million. The two-hour show Welcome to Me is a segment exclusively about herself.

Director: Shira Piven Cast: Kristen Wiig, James Marsden, Linda Cardellini Why it’s worth watching?

When Welcome to Me debuted at Toronto Film Festival, the response was a mixed one. You either take it literally, which is the film making fun of the mentally ill by reducing their suffering down to a handful of quirks; OR, you applaud Kristen Wiig for carrying an entire film completely on her own shoulders (this is seriously some of her best work). One thing is for sure, Welcome to Me wastes no time trying to explain itself. You might see it as the modern-day equivalent of visiting an asylum, seeing the patients do “weird stuff ”, and then calling their behavior “quirky,” or you might see it as a simple and comical idea delivered in a no-nonsense, casual manner. Either way, borderline personality disorder turns out to be more of a laughing matter than it probably should be in Welcome to Me. This is a tough one. We see Alice’s deep-seated emotional and psychological issues on live TV, what some may call a train wreck of personal vendettas and frustrations as viewers watch on in morbid curiosity. The 86-minute film will provoke and start real conversations about such mental illness disorders, but we’ll leave it to you to draw your own conclusions.

60

fact magazine

Highlights “Either way, borderline personality disorder turns out to be more of a laughing matter than it probably should be... this is a tough one”

Pitch Perfect 2 What’s it about?

Prepare to get pitch slapped with round two of everyone’s favourite collegiate a capella group, The Barden Bellas enter into an international competition, that no American team has ever won before.

Welcome to Me.

“All Pitch Perfect 2 needs to do is build on all of the qualities that made the first movie...”

Pitch Perfect 2.

Win 2 Free Cinema Tickets Redeemable for any film at any Cineco cinema Answer the following question:

Director: Elizabeth Banks Cast: Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow, Anna Camp

Who plays Fat Amy in Pitch Perfect?

Why it’s worth watching?

Email answers to: editorial@factlive.com

Based on the trailer to the follow up of 2012’s smash hit Pitch Perfect, this is going to be an utter delight. All Pitch Perfect 2 needs to do is build on all of the qualities that made the first movie such a winner – the charm, sweetness, sincerity, its cheek and wit, and, of course, more quotable oneliners – mainly from Fat Amy! There is somewhat of a more grown-up tone here as Elizabeth Banks shows the Barden Bellas coming of age and approaching the end of their college run. There are still plenty of laughs in this underdog comedy’s insight into the cutthroat world of competitive show choir. If you loved the first one, you should be well on board for this one too.

(Type •••Diabetes Diabetes (Type111&& &2)2) 2) Diabetes(Type (High blood pressure) •••Hypertension Hypertension (Highblood bloodpressure) pressure) Hypertension(High •••yroid yroid disorders yroiddisorders disorders •••Obesity Obesity Obesity Pituitary Adrenal Glands Disorders •••Pituitary Pituitary&& &Adrenal AdrenalGlands GlandsDisorders Disorders

•••Kidney Kidney disorders Kidneydisorders disorders (PCOS) •••Polycystic Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) PolycysticOvarian OvarianSyndrome Syndrome(PCOS) •••Cholesterol Cholesterol disorders Cholesteroldisorders disorders •••Lung Lung disorders Lungdisorders disorders •••Digestive Digestive system disorders Digestivesystem systemdisorders disorders

D D m M Dee epp paa arr rtt tm mee enn ntt t oo off f IIInn ntt tee err rnn naa all lM Mee edd diiicc ciiinn nee e

Royal RoyalBahrain BahrainHospital Hospital Royal Bahrain Hospital

fact magazine

61

|www.royalbahrainhospital.com @RoyalBahrainHospital @RoyalBahrainHospital|www.royalbahrainhospital.com @RoyalBahrainHospital |www.royalbahrainhospital.com

REVIEWS

on the record

Fully Booked

Fiction

Memory Man

By David Baldacci

ALT/ROCK

Danger in the Club

By Palma Violets

Probably one of the most underrated indie bands operating out of the UK, Palma Violets return with their second album, the 17-track Danger in the Club. The four-piece is well-known for having a raw-edge and psychedelic rock & roll sound. Let’s take a look at title track and latest single Danger in the Club. Zane Lowe released it as one of his ‘future exclusives’ on BBC Radio One, so there’s already huge support for radio play. The track’s familiar vivid 60s-style guitar riffs; moody punk vocals, and rowdy lyrics, show that Palma Violets have kept their youthful and chaotic sound intact.

There’s a choppy pop-punk, garage-rock vibe to Danger in the Club, especially when a harmonica is thrown in for good measure and the song fades to a calm closure. The band revealed to NME that the album’s material is all original demos taken from their writing sessions at The Doghouse studios in Wales. This desire to release unedited music is a refreshing approach in today’s music industry and we love that Palma Violets’ energetic flair has progressed from their successful debut album 180.

62

fact magazine

RNB/SOUL/ HIP-HOP

Hollywood

By Jamie Foxx

Give this man a mic and watch him make music magic. We all know that Jamie Foxx has mesmerising talent and a spellbinding stage presence (just YouTube one of his live shows and you’ll see what we’re talking about), and now, after a five-year music hiatus, the Grammy-award winning singer is making a comeback with the aptly titled Hollywood. After his grand performance of You Changed Me, with Chris Brown, on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Jamie Foxx has set the scene for what we can expect from his upcoming fifth studio album. In the past he’s managed to pull big names like Justin Timberlake, Drake, Twista and Rick Ross for his album efforts, and with Chris Brown on the lead single, there’s bound to be plenty of other great collaborations. If the energy on the album is anything like the dynamic duo’s performance on TV, then expect flames (in a very good way). We’re hoping for some more grown-up material where Jamie Foxx’s voice and instrument-playing skills shine through, away from the synthetic sound often found in the mainstream music world.

“If the energy on the album is anything like the dynamic duo’s performance on TV, then expect flames...”

A man with perfect memory solves his own family’s murder! Amos Decker has two life changing incidents. One being; a violent helmet-to-helmet collision on his very first play which knocked him off the field for good, and left him with an unlikely side effect; he can never forget anything. His next was two decades later when he was a police detective. Amos entered his house to witness the bodies of his wife, young daughter, and brother-in-law, all murdered.

This devastating incident changes him forever! What happens next is for you to read; does he find the mysterious murderer and get justice for his family? A thrilling read!

Health & Nutrition

The Whole30: The 30-Day Guide to Total Health and Food Freedom

By Melissa Hartwig

Whole30.com is a well-known website on which people share their stories of weight loss and lifestyle makeovers. This book provides the step-by-step, recipe-by-recipe guidance that will allow millions of people to experience the transformation in just one month. The Whole30 features more than 100 chef-developed recipes, designed to build your confidence in the kitchen and inspire your taste buds. The book also includes real-life success stories, community resources, and an extensive FAQ to give you the support you need on your journey to ‘food freedom’.

#Al #Aali #Art #Festival #Opening Al Aali Art Festival hosted a grand opening at the Al Aali Shopping Complex. The Festival this year showcased exemplary work under various categories.

mcdeliver y.com.bh fact magazine

63

SOCIETY

#Porsche #Showcases #Cayenne #GTS Porsche Centre Bahrain, Behbehani Bros. W.L.L. celebrated the arrival of the all-new and intensified Porsche Cayenne GTS in the Kingdom. On show and welcomed to the country for the first time was the thrilling entry-level Cayenne featuring a powerful 3.6 litre V6 engine which embodies Porsche’s core values of delivering outstanding performance and everyday usability.

64

fact magazine

McLaren

650S Spider

fact magazine

65

ISLAND RIDES

The 650S is everything the 12C should have been, and then some. And the 650S Spider is even better.

Driving it for four days was one of the best experiences of this journalist’s career…

66

fact magazine

Though the impeccably engineered 12C was a thoroughly impressive debut in the world’s supercar market for McLaren Automotive, it did have its critics, who said that the car simply wasn’t exotic enough to compete with the likes of the Ferrari 458, its main rival.

So, last year McLaren responded with this, the stunning 650S. The DNA from McLaren’s awesome P1 hypercar is instantly recognisable at the front end, with those McLaren logo-shaped headlights and dramatic front air scoops. Add in some tweaks to the rest of the body and new alloys, and you have a car that has upgraded from looking ‘well-engineered’ to ‘sexy’.

And the Spider version that we drove adds to this significantly. Like a beautiful woman, it looks superb at first,

but really takes your breath away when you see it with its top off !

In addition to the exterior design changes, the 650S boasts an uprated version of the same twin-turbo V8 that the 12C had, taking power output from 592hp to 641hp (650PS, hence the name) as well as some tweaks to enhance the chassis. The end result is that the 650S drives and feels like a high performance machine in every way imaginable. It steers with a precision that would make a brain surgeon jealous. There’s an accuracy to every movement you make on the wheel that inspires an incredible level of confidence – you just point and shoot and the car goes exactly where you’re expecting it to.

And I don’t need to go into too much detail about the handling and balance – they’re just as superb as you’d expect

from a mid-engined supercar built by a company that owns an F1 team, and sitting on a set of purpose-made Pirelli P Zeros!

And the power… McLaren are not shy about the fact that this is a twinturbo beast, and in fact celebrate the fact by putting the turbos right behind your head. This means that every time you put your foot down they spool up with a satisfying whoosh as the instant acceleration propels you forward like a steam catapult. Turbo lag? Not so much.

That is not, however, all you hear, as the delicious howl from the 3.8-litre V8 mixes with the scream of the turbos to create an awesome symphony of power.

Flooring it in a tunnel is an experience you will never forget.

What all this equates to is a 0-100km time of three seconds, and it will

hit 200km/h in just 8.4 seconds, up to a claimed top speed of 333km/h (207mph).

The interior of the 650S delivers everything required, if not everything desired. It looks great, with lashings of leather and Alcantara and a premium, well built feel to it all. It has its own functional and stylish Android-based IRIS operating system through which I was able to link the car’s infotainment to my phone’s WiFi hotspot, and then use apps like Google maps, TuneIn radio, and more.

On the downside, the shape of the carbon fibre tub means that it suffers from the same problems as the 12C. It means huge door sills that you have to clamber over when you’re getting in and out of the car. It also means that there’s not a great deal of width in the footwell, especially as your legs are essentially sharing space with the front wheel.

There also isn’t a great amount of storage space in the car at all. The frontend trunk would fit two small weekend bags at best.

fact magazine

67

ISLAND RIDES

“Because, like the 12C, the driving experience is what the 650S is all about. It is nigh on close to perfection, especially with the Spider’s roof folded away. However, where the 650S improves on the 12C is that it’s beautiful.”

In the passenger cabin, you’ll find very few spaces to plonk things like mobiles, books, iPads, etc., and though there are two drinks holders, they’re placed awkwardly behind the floating centre console.

But you see, none of this bothered me at all, because once you climb behind the wheel, all of these trifling matters fade away. You don’t want luggage in your 650S, it would only add unnecessary weight! Cup holders?

Pah… No-one’s bringing food or drink into MY McLaren. I don’t need luggage space for two, because I don’t even really want a passenger – unless I’m taking you for a quick spin to show off my 650S, you’ll only distract me from the driving experience.

Because, like the 12C, the driving experience is what the 650S is all about. It is nigh on close to perfection, especially with the Spider’s roof folded away. However, where the 650S improves on the 12C is that it’s beautiful. Of all the 650S models I’d seen to date, this gorgeous Spider, in McLaren’s ‘Storm Grey’ with the carbon fibre package, was pretty much perfection in terms of options in my opinion.

And this isn’t just my opinion either – every time I parked this car, I returned to see a crowd gathered taking pictures.

People stopped us to comment on it.

Cars would pull alongside us on the highway with a camera phone poking out of the window. It turned heads wherever we went, and that is exactly what it’s supposed to do.

The looks, the power, and the performance: this car is a supercar, in every sense of the word!

68

fact magazine

fact magazine

69

ISLAND RIDES

2015 Nissan Juke With quirky styling and big practicality, the Nissan Juke is an ideal family car for those who want to stand out in a crowded car park.

70

fact magazine

I

t’s fair to say that the Juke has polarised opinions since it was first unveiled way back in 2010. The compact CUV’s radical styling was quite a bold step for Nissan, but they didn’t seem phased.

Rather, they revelled in the attention it garnered, even being playful with it, as we saw when Nissan Europe commissioned the insane, and yet incredibly impressive Juke-R. This creation was a 485hp monster boasting the mighty Nissan GT-R’s drivetrain that could hit 100km/h in less than four seconds.

It set the motoring press and blogosphere ablaze, creating such a hype that Nissan announced it would actually build 21 production Juke-Rs, and the orders rolled in. So rather than give our opinions on the styling let’s continue from the standpoint that beauty is subjective,

and leave you to decide for yourselves. So, to the car itself…

Alas, this is not the Juke-R, so instead of the 485hp 3.8l twin-turbo V6, we have Nissan’s 1.6l four-cylinder putting out 117hp and 158Nm of torque. You can, if you so wish, opt for a turbocharged version of the same engine on the Juke SL Turbo, which is uprated to 190hp and 240Nm. We had the standard SL, and to be fair pickup wasn’t too bad. It will hit 100km/h in around 11 seconds, although the power delivery really tapers off at higher speeds. Handling and ride comfort are both very good, even for a compact CUV. There’s very little roll and sway under normal driving conditions and the short wheelbase and overhangs make for good agility.

Inside there is a good list of features to add icing to the cake. You get Nissan’s

ISLAND RIDES

“The hatch at the back, however, does make for easy loading into the surprisingly large boot space...”

N-Connect infotainment system with Bluetooth, a five-inch colour display with rear parking camera, steering-wheel mounted audio and phone controls and a six-speaker stereo system with CD, Mp3 and USB. While the front row is comfortable and spacious in the Juke, that short wheelbase means that legroom is a little limited in the back. It’s absolutely fine for short adults or children, but anyone over six-foot tall will probably want to call shotgun! The hatch at the back, however, does make for easy loading into the surprisingly large boot space, and the fold-flat rear seats give you lots of versatility when it comes to lugging round shopping/ luggage/IKEA furniture.

Overall, the Nissan Juke is a great urban runaround, with plenty of space for a family of four and lots of practicality. And, at this price boasting Nissan’s warranty it offers fantastic value for money too! fact magazine

71

SOCIETY

#Jay #Sean #Live #At #Ibrida Ibrida was thumping at the opening night of the 2015 F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Popular British rapper Jay Sean performed live and the crowd was blown away with his superb performance. He performed all his hot songs, first time ever in Bahrain.

72

fact magazine

PLUGGED-IN

Blackberry Passport The latest device from Blackberry, featuring a bold new design, has the whole world talking, but is it for the right reasons? We find out…

The first truly noteworthy release from Blackberry in over a year, the Passport gets its name for its truly novel passport-sized shape. It has polarised opinions amongst practically everyone we’ve spoken to about it – some love it, and some hate it, but we can’t fault Blackberry for trying something new. But, has it worked?

Our first impressions of using the Passport were that it initially felt extremely unnatural and awkward. The wide shape completely rules out one-handed use, and it feels heavy and unbalanced in the hands, although this is because of a decidedly solid-feeling build quality.

Once you become accustomed to it, the user experience does improve significantly, and you find typing quite smooth and easy with the keypad.

The interesting thing about the Passport is that when you turn it horizontally, the keypad doubles as a touchpad to navigate the menus. However, the transition is glitchy, which is a shame, because this really lets down a feature that had great potential to be a game changer.

We’re a fan of the Blackberry 10 OS – it’s smooth and intuitive, but notoriously lacks in the apps department, which again lets a potentially great gadget down. On the other hand, it’s extremely easy to read in sunlight, which is a bonus in the Middle East!

The width of the screen in vertical mode is great for reading messages and emails, and combined with the keypad this might make it a hit with the hard core business types, but for everyone else it will fail to shine in the face of competition.

Verdict: Wouldn’t give up an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy for it in a million years…

fact magazine

73

MOTORING

Bahrain F1 GP Mercedes Challenged by Ferrari in Dazzling Spectacle

Though Lewis Hamilton continues to dominate the Driver’s Championship, a serious challenge from Ferrari in Bahrain has fuelled excitement in the 2015 season…

A

s expected, Mercedes were fastest during the practice sessions, with Nico Rosberg actually topping Lewis Hamilton’s lap times overall. However, the qualifying threw up some surprises, as Hamilton took pole and Sebastian Vettel pipped Rosberg on the clock to take second place on the front row, and Kimi Raikkonen came in behind Rosberg to make the front two rows Mercedes, Ferrari, Mercedes, Ferrari. This promised a thrilling race for the following day.

Following the qualifying sessions was the much-anticipated Pit Bull concert, as thousands gathered at the main stage in the F1 Fanzone to see the show. The crowds went wild as the American rapper performed, and for many this will truly be 74

fact magazine

a highlight of the weekend.

For everyone else, it was Sunday’s race that was the highlight. Once again, a supremely confident Lewis Hamilton led from pole to finish, although his supremacy was threatened by under-cut tactics from Ferrari, where they pitted earlier and then used the fresh tyre advantage to challenge the leader. Their challenge was almost successful, and this is a tactic that we can expect to see the Italian team put to good use in the future as they continue to bring the fight to Mercedes.

Unfortunately for Rosberg, a technical issue yet again blighted his race, and he was unable to fend off a challenge

by Kimi Raikonnen which resulted in the third spot on the podium for him

behind the Ferrari. However, one of the biggest surprises came in the form of a stellar drive by Bottas for Williams that saw him overtake Sebastian Vettel for fourth place and yet another promising result for the team.

One of the more spectacular elements that race fans will remember from the weekend were the showers of sparks flying off the back of the Formula One cars throughout the weekend, something which we haven’t seen since the 80s, and looked fantastic in Bahrain’s night race.

The sparks were a result of changing the material of the skid-blocks underneath the cars from tungsten to the much softer titanium, introduced for the first time this season in Bahrain, which heats up more quickly under friction and creates the dazzling display.

The metal covers the regulation wooden planks underneath the cars which prevent them from running too low to the track. This was a regulation introduced following the tragic deaths of Roland Ratzenberger and Ayrton Senna during the same F1 weekend in San Marino in 1994. Running too low meant that the underside of the cars connected with the track and interrupted airflow underneath the car, which in turn negatively affected down

force resulting in horrific high-speed crashes.

So, though the flying sparks were a crowd-pleasing side effect of the rule change, the main logic behind it was enforcing safety rules. If too much of the planks are worn away during a race a car can be disqualified, and the softer metal ensures that all cars are strictly adhering to the regulations.

So what do we take away from the Bahrain GP? Well, the races are becoming even more of a spectacle, and the prospect of a boring season of Mercedes one-twos has now made way for one of an exciting battle between Ferrari and Mercedes.

Bring it on‌ fact magazine

75

SOCIETY

#2015 #Formula1 #GulfAir #Bahrain #Grand #Prix Dazzling fireworks display lit up the night sky and the massive crowd roared into celebration as Hamilton steered his Mercedes across the finish line to claim victory. His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince awarded Hamilton the winning driver’s glistening trophy during the post-race podium ceremony.

76

fact magazine

SOCIETY

fact magazine

77

SOCIETY

#Renault #Symbol #Launch Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, exclusive distributors of Renault in Bahrain invited the media and other VIP guests to Bahrain City Centre to discover their new face of pride; Renault Symbol. Guests had the opportunity to know more about the car from the experts and experience the car in person.

78

fact magazine

PLUGGED-IN

App-licious Today’s tech-savvy generation of smartphones and tablets means the world is at your fingertips, literally! FACT has three great apps to download for your device, keeping you plugged-in to all the best techie help for every area of life...

TRAVEL DIARY

TRAVEL PLANNING Travelex (iOS)

Hotel Tonight (Android & iOS)

HipGeo is a cross between a social network and a travel journal. It is an app that allows people to easily record and share what they do on their travels, excursions, and holidays using their smart phone. HipGeo automatically transforms all the photos you take on your device, using the GPS on your phone, into a Facebook timelinestyle live stream. If you’re a traveller, a cultureseeker, a city-hopper or a foodie, this app will appeal to your curious nature.

Type in where you’re going and the dates of travel then let Travelex Trip Planner do the hard work. The app gives helpful information and reminders ahead of your travels, with packing tips, weather info and travel guides and alerts too. The app will list the essential things to remember to book or take in your luggage, and then prompts the user to take action in the weeks before a break. This app is essentially a holiday planner in your pocket.

HotelTonight is a same-day hotel booking app that gives you huge discounted room rates at a selection of the best luxury and quirky hotels. If you’re travelling in the U.S, Canada or UK, this app can work wonders for last-minute travellers, giving up to 70 per cent price reductions on top-rated hotels in most major cities. Every day at noon it lists hotel options in your chosen city each offering great budget-rates available to book until the offer ends at 2am. Easy peasy!

HipGeo (Android & iOS)

TRAVEL DEAL

BLDG 275, Road 3606, Block 336 A dliya www.casame xicanabh.com Facebook: casame xicana-bahr ain Instagr am:casame xicanabh Phone: +973 17715521

fact magazine

79

MOTORING NEWS

All N e w M c L a r e n 5 7 0 S Launched Worldwide The new ‘baby McLaren’ has finally enjoyed its global launch, with events taking place across the region last month. McLaren has completed its three tier model strategy with the global reveal of the first in its Sports Series family: the McLaren 570S Coupé.

This pure sports car, with driver optimised layout and electrifying performance, shares its DNA with the McLaren Super Series and Ultimate Series that sit above it in the range hierarchy. The Sports Series introduces McLaren race-derived technologies and

design values to a new segment and audience. Like every McLaren, the performance of the 570S Coupé is breath taking. It combines, as its name suggests, a power output of 570PS (562bhp) with lightweight construction to give a class leading power-toweight ratio of 434PS per tonne. The 570S accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds, while 200 km/h (124 mph) is reached in just 9.5 seconds with the pace not letting up till the car reaches a top speed of 328 km/h (204mph).

N e w B M W X 6 XD r i v e 3 5 i Arrives in Bahrain Euro Motors, the official BMW Group importer in Bahrain have announced the arrival of the X6 XDrive 35i variant to join the all-new BMW X6 50i that was launched in the country late last year.

The new X6 comes with a suitably exclusive new roster of standard equipment: bi-xenon headlights, 19-inch light-alloy wheels, automatic tailgate operation and the 8-speed Steptronic sport transmission with steering wheel shift paddles.

The increased performance is accompanied by an up to 22% reduction in average fuel consumption thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the standard-fitted eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission, extensive BMW Efficient Dynamics technology, weight-saving optimisations and enhanced aerodynamics.

The standard – and permanently active – intelligent all-wheel-drive system BMW xDrive optimises traction, directional stability and cornering dynamics, as the situation requires.

Call Euro Motors on 1775 0750 for more information.

80

fact magazine

MOTORING NEWS

P o r s c h e S h o w c a s e s C ay e n n e G T S i n B a h r a i n The Porsche Centre Bahrain celebrated the arrival of the all-new and intensified Porsche Cayenne GTS in the Kingdom last month at an invite-only showcase for top media. With a sporting bloodline which can be traced back to the legendary 904 Carrera GTS of 1963, the Cayenne GTS exemplifies the three letter title reserved for Porsche’s most sporty models.

Boasting a 3.6-litre V6 biturbo engine that is configured as a sports engine, and a chassis that makes the GTS the most agile of Cayenne models, it boasts the Porsche Active Suspension Management system with its sporty tuning and ride height lowered by 24 mm with the standard steel suspension – or by 20 mm with the optional air suspension. The Cayenne GTS accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds when equipped with the Sport Chrono Package, and reaches a top speed of 262 km/h.

Call the Porsche Centre Bahrain on 1745 9911, for more information.

J a g u a r XF M o d e ls Showcased a t R e d B u ll X-Fighters J a ms

After a Jaguar F-type Coupe was given to one lucky F1 ticket holder in a competition run by the Bahrain International Circuit, the brand continued its involvement in the F1 weekend by displaying their cars centre stage at the Red Bull X-Fighters Jams event, running alongside the Bahrain F1 GP and free to F1 tickets holders. The Red Bull X-Fighters Jams is a freestyle motocross event in which riders pull off spectacular daredevil stunts on a purpose-built

ramp, with points awarded for style, originality and complexity of the stunts.

And positioned underneath the riders in between the take-off and landing ramps as they soared through the air pulling off backflips and other aerial stunts were two Jaguar XF luxury sedans.

The Red Bull X-Fighters Jams was part of Race Fever, Bahrain International Circuit’s nation-wide celebration of motorsport leading to the 2015 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. fact magazine

81

SOCIETY

#Saks #Fifth #Avenue #Kids #Fashion #Show Saks Fifth Avenue at City Centre Bahrain hosted a Kids Fashion show showcasing the Spring Summer 2015 collection to the guests present at the event. It was a delight to watch little fashionistas hit the runway, dressed in cute outfits. This seasons collection has the bright summer colours; pink, yellow and white.

82

fact magazine

H&M Summertime Charm

fact magazine

83

fashion focus

hers

‘Variety is the spice of life’ – H&M’s women’s collection this season is all about mixing smart and chic.

The prints for Spring Summer 2015 are not just typical florals. The collection showcases the latest cosmopolitan attire, edgy ensembles and stylish adornments. The looks are all about city-chic fashion with a Tropicana touch, essential for beating the heat. Opt for chilled comfort and easy-going glamour too. H&M’s new Conscious Exclusive collection shows what can be done with more sustainable materials, using fabrics such as hemp, organic linen and organic leather to create piece of great individual style! The women’s ‘H&M loves Coachella’ collection focuses on a romantic trend with graphic tops, fringe, lace, rompers, crop tops, shorts, and wide legged pants for a feminine bohemian look. Vibrant bohemian prints with laid-back contemporary styles – The spring selection offers an easy-going elegance, sun-kissed mood, and colour palette influenced by the summer sky and golden sand. H&M is at its trendiest this season– enjoy these fun and stylish outfits!

84

fact magazine

FASHION FOCUS

his

He needs smart, casual and stylish – H&M men’s collection SHOWCASES the utmost style.

The collection focuses on uber-cool design to suit contemporary masculine taste, with a number of en-vogue fabrics to suit a busy, yet fashion-forward lifestyle. The half-lined jacket, celestial printed scuba hoodie, the classics such as the biker jacket and sweatpants gives the line a stylish and eased out versatility. ‘The H&M loves Coachella’ collection for men is cool and beachy bringing out the spirit of the festival.

Look out for cool graphic t-shirts, comfy sweatshirt shorts, long tees, patterned sleeveless tops and casual cotton shirts. The men’s line includes basic pieces, which can be worn by women as well, making it versatile and cool. The highlights of the collection are the sexy jackets and stylish sweatshirts that can be worn on a hot sunny day!

Shop H&M’S SPRING/SUMMER 2015 COLLECTION AT CITY CENTRE MALL bahrain, seef mall, and seef mall muharraq.

fact magazine

85

Fashion Focus

Shop the brand Here is our wishlist from H&M’S SPRING/SUMMER 2015 collection.

for her

for him

01

02

03

01

02

03

04

05

06

04

05

06

07

08

09

07

08

09

01. DENIM JACKET | 02. CASUAL DAY BAG | 03. MAROON SUEDE JACKET | 04. TROPICAL PRINT DRESS | 05.

FLORAL GOLD EARRINGS | 06. DEEP-PURPLE WRAP DRESS | 07. KIMONO-STYLE JACKET | 08. WHITE CASUAL SWEATER | 09. PRINTED TROUSERS. 86

fact magazine

01. DARK BLUE denim jEANS | 02. DEEP-GREEN SHIRT | 03. STRIPED SWEATSHIRT | 04. GREY OVERSIZED SHIRT | 05. BIKER-STYLE DAY JACKET | 06. BLACK BACKPACK | 07. FLORAL-PRINT BLACK & WHITE TRAINERS | 08.

GREY SUNGLASSES | 09. WHITE GRAFFITI-STAMPED T-SHIRT.

fact magazine

87

SOCIETY

#Mercedes-Benz #VIP #Club #Perfume #Range Based on powerful exclusive co-operation, Mercedes-Benz launched the first perfume collection by five Master Perfumers at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Five colours that classify the fragrances according to their olfactory family range from the freshest to the most intense. A grand gesture at the event included the Mercedes-Benz car driven into the hall to launch the perfumes.

88

fact magazine

STYLE

A Print Story THE FASHION RULES ON PRINT ARE OUT THE WINDOW! the catwalks have now dictated that these days anything goes. Whether its a tropical floral with aZTEC DESIGN, STRIPES WITH EMBELLISHMEN, OR even A top to toe tribal LOOK, print holds the key TO SUMMER.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

01. bershka 02. ASOS 03. debenhams 04. f&f 05. Accessorize 06. marks & spencer 07. NEXT 08. PARFOIS 09. RIVER ISLAND 10. h&m 11. MISS SELFRIDGE 12. TOPSHOP

fact magazine

89

SOCIETY

#Bob #Sinclar #Performs #At #Bushido In celebration of the 2015 Bahrain Grand Prix, Bob Sinclar performed live and exclusive at Bushido. An energetic night-to-remember took place, with guests dancing to upbeat tracks polished with Bob Sinclar’s signature African-inspired vibes. IT WAS A FUN NIGHT FOR ALL!

90

fact magazine

STYLE

The City Tropics the holiday mood has hit home. In particular, the tropics have taken over MEN’S CLOTHING. FROM SHIRT PRINTS TO BOLDER COLOURS, instantly livenING up a casual street look. Palm tree SHORTS or floral CAPS, Hawaiian style trilbys, OR NEON SHADES, TROPICAL IS THE TRICK THIS SUMMER.

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

01. ALdO 02. BERSHKA 03. F&F 04. H&M 05. H&M 06. NEW LOOK 07. POLICE EYEWEAR 08. TOPMAN 09. NEXT 10. HOUSE OF FRASER 11. rIVER ISLAND 12. H&M

fact magazine

91

SOCIETY

#Wojooh #Store #Opening Wojooh – Faces of Beauty unveiled their new store in Seef Mall Muharraq with a Grand Opening ceremony. The event had complimentary makeover session for the ladies and a photo-booth with fun props for some picture opps added to the fun element of the event.

92

fact magazine

FASHION INTERVIEW

Meet Rosemin Manji She was recently nominated for Female Personality of the Year, and that is just one more testament to this businesswoman’s hard work ethic and career accomplishments. FACT caught up with Rosemin Manji to learn more about her journey into the world of fashion PR… She’s the founder of luxury fashion PR firm RR&Co, she worked with Tom Ford straight out of university, and she’s even got Louboutin heels named after her. How’s that for impressive? That’s right, Rosemin Manji is a stylist, businesswoman, fashion consultant, and so much more. She recently designed a bag as part of designer Amanda Navai’s handbag collection, available at Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain. “I love the colours,” Rosemin says. “Amanda and I have been friends for a while and when she gave me the chance to design my own bag, I wanted to create a great day bag,” she adds.

Talking of creativity, we ask Rosemin how her love for fashion was ignited. “I did study fashion but I think it was something in my blood from a very young age,” she recalls. “When I was young, the minute I saw a sewing machine, or even when my mum bought me clothes, I’d be cutting up skirts and dresses,” she smiles. Rosemin has worked for and with the likes of Tom Ford, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Angela Missoni, and many more of the who’s who of the fashion industry. But, rest assured,

this lovely lady has worked hard to get to where she is today.

“One of the things that I always tell other students is that I did a lot of internships when I was young and my friends were out having fun,” Rosemin shares. “It involves a lot of discipline and to me it really paid off because I learned from a very young age, what I really enjoyed.”

When Rosemin would visit Dubai she found that her ex-colleagues would approach her to help with trend reports and other fashion services, based on the Middle East market. One project led to another and Rosemin’s name got passed around in the industry so much that she eventually took the leap and moved to Dubai eight years ago, starting up RR&Co, which has become one of the most influential bespoke luxury management firms in the region.

By helping brands to reach their customers through a more targeted approach and teaching the customers more about the designer, Rosemin has changed the way that brand exposure is achieved in the Middle East. “I just used what I learned

“I just used what I learned in Europe and the way I was taught to do PR and implemented this into the Middle East.” in Europe and the way I was taught to do PR and implemented this into the Middle East,” she says.

She’s styled celebrities and other famous figures, but on her wish list is Oprah and the Obamas! Rosemin has three things that she strongly believes; hard work, integrity, and loyalty. The sky’s the limit Rosemin, reach for the stars!

GO: Visit www.rrandco.com for more information.

Shop Amanada Navai’s handbag collection at Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain, City Centre Mall. fact magazine

93

SOCIETY

#Nicole’s #Mediterranean #Restaurant #Opening Nicole’s Restaurant and Lounge officially opened its doors to offer guests a tantalising and unique dining experience. The event hosted distinguished guests, along with esteemed members of the media. Starting with a press conference followed by the official ribbon cutting ceremony, the grand opening featured A live music duO, as well as an illusionist and an array of culinary delights of authentic Mediterranean cuisine.

94

fact magazine

Beauty

✓

beauty

Checklist

Have you stocked up on the brand new products from the world of beauty?

FACT brings you a new list of beauty essentials every month. So ladies, what is on your checklist this month? Make sure to tick them all off…

Guerlain Orchidée Imperialé

Maybelline New York

Age-defying and brightening serum

Color Sensational Bold Matte

Drench your lips with the vibrant shades of Maybelline’s new range of matte lipsticks with the most luminous shades. The new matte is sleek, with a more vivid, lustrous colour that comes from brighter, powder-less pigments. Hot new shades come in a range of seven stunning, bold choices for long-lasting prettiness.

Eros Pour Femme is the ultimate in power and seduction from Versace, from the captivating fragrance to the elegance of the bottle. Vibrant and precious, the Sicilian lemon and Calabrian bergamot draw attention, and pomegranate grains amaze and seduce. The jasmine infusion and the jasmine absolute Sambac convey timeless femininity.

L’Occitane

Sephora

Rimmel

A flawless and fresh and luminous skin-tone is every girls dream. Gueralin Orchidée Impériale White boosts the cells’ regenerative potential, increases the skin brightening effect and soothes the skin. Skin immediately regains its radiance as dark spots fade, leaving the skin smooth, refreshed and even-toned.

Cut here

Iris Bleu & Iris Blanc

Iris Bleu & Iris Blanc is a contrasting flower-toflower encounter that follows the path of the sun. The fragrance opens its petals onto green fruity notes before luxuriating in the intensity of Iris pallida. The top note of the fragrance consists of Blackcurrant and citrus, the heart is Iris, ylang-ylang and peach, and the base note is Iris, cedar and white musk.

Ultimate Warming Cleanser

Get your skin cleansed and purified by the new innovation in makeup removal, which helps to capture excess oil, traces of make-up and impurities. A honey-like texture warms upon contact with the skin, to help open up pores and lift impurities and makeup up. This multi-purpose product is creating a stir this season.

Versace Eros Pour Femme

Keep Calm Lip Balm

Rimmel introduces new Keep Calm Lip Balm, an ultra-nourishing, long-wearing lip balm with a fresh hint of colour. Enriched with moisturising oils, the nourishing formula calms, softens and protects lips. Enjoy up to five hours of comfort and care. The pretty palette ranges from a clear shade to a punchy pink - there’s a shade for everyone and every day. fact magazine

95

SOCIETY

#Bahraini #Farmers #Market The Bahraini Farmers Market has grown attracting thousands of visitors every Saturday and has become a favourite family destination that allows YOU to buy FRESH, local PRODUCE. Each month a festival is HELD with the market; April was the Berries Festival. The media was invited to cover the EVENT and try the different local berries.

96

fact magazine

“Fresh is best. Always use fresh, quality products and know where your product comes from.” – Chef David Bell.

Dining Refined at Legendz Steakhouse For meat-lovers, seafood fans and even dessert enthusiasts, there’s a palate-pleasing dish waiting to be savoured at the award-winning Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency Bahrain. We meet the man behind the mouthwatering menu, Australian Executive Sous Chef, David Bell, to learn more about his refreshing approach to cooking.

fact magazine

97

CHEF’S TABLE

C

hef David grew up on a small farm in South Eastern Australia where his father had a business delivering supplies to butcher shops, and his mother party-planned and hosted pretty much every event for the local community.

“Food and hospitality has been around my life forever,” he says. “My teen years were spent in a country pub, which my parents are now running. That’s where I first entered the kitchen, only as small help, washing the dishes and peeling potatoes.”

This is also where, as a teen, he began experimenting by cooking himself dinner when the chefs went on their breaks. “I was a master of the packet cake mix,” he recalls. “A few years later, I started my chef ’s apprenticeship at a beautiful waterfront restaurant in Sydney where guests would come in their private yachts or by sea plane from Sydney Harbour – it was fantastic.”

As our entrées make their way to the table, it’s safe to say that Chef David has come a long way since. In front of us is hickory smoked Atlantic salmon, and pan-seared snapper fillet. Our first reaction was wow! It looks stunning. So, we ask chef what’s more important – presentation or taste?

He explains: “I wish I could say it’s all about the taste, I wish I could say it’s all about the quality of the ingredient, and I wish I could say it’s all about how well your preparation technique has been executed, but the reality is, first impressions last.

“I am not trying to say presentation is everything, but I will say it is extremely important that we marry up how a dish is presented with how good the dish tastes,” he says. In this case, our first impressions were met with impeccable taste.

The salmon had a wonderful sweet, acidic flavour with pickled fennel and orange and radish salad. We loved the citrus, tangy kick 98

fact magazine

CHEF’S TABLE

Menu Hickory Smoked Atlantic Salmon Pan-seared Snapper Fillet Grilled Australian Wagyu Striploin Pistachio and Thyme-crusted rack of New Zealand Lamb Salted Peanut and Chocolate brownie Yogurt and Lime Sorbet

in the snapper dish – a very good start.

We learn that Chef David’s favourite cuisine to cook is meat especially BBQ, so you can only imagine how thrilled we were when two glorious mains landed on the table. First was grilled Australian wagyu striploin; and the second was pistachio and thyme-crusted rack of New Zealand lamb.

A standout in the wagyu steak was the use of café de Paris butter, a mix of many ingredients including anchovies, capers, chives, parsley and paprika - simply exquisite. This is the first such concoction, paired with an excellent meat dish, that we’ve tried in Bahrain, and one that will certainly have us return.

A real earthy dish, the lamb was perfectly cooked. There was nothing random on this plate; every component and garnishing seemed to have a purpose, and every ingredient, from the roasted garlic to the shallots and the tender meat, all complemented one another, both visually and to taste.

Chef David is all about respecting the product, respecting the hard work of the farmer who grew the product to make it as good as it is, and respecting the customer who is paying money to enjoy the end result. He tells us: “At Legendz it’s all about sourcing the best quality ingredients on the island and delivering it to our guests with passion and sophistication. Whether it’s great steak or fresh fish, we aim to please.”

For dessert, we’re treated to salted peanut and chocolate brownie, and yogurt and lime sorbet. The latter sits atop a melt-inyour-mouth toasted meringue and manuka honey – beyond delicious. But, it was the in-house made peanut butter mousse and vanilla semi-freddo, in the first dessert, that had us thanking the food gods – you’ve just got to try it for yourself.

Chef David is confident and comfortable

with knowing that he can make something just as good, if not better, than a bought in product. “I have always made everything in my kitchen, from bread to ice cream,” he says. “The most important thing is that I know what’s in it.” Not only does he care about diners having the best culinary experience at Legendz Steakhouse, Chef David pays genuine attention to every part of the food chain before the dish is delivered to your table – now, that’s a man whose restaurant we’d be happy to dine in, time and again.

GO: Visit LEGENDZ STEAKHOUSE AT INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN. CALL 1722 7777 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

99

100 fact magazine

The Traditional Trader Vic’s Experience •

It’s become an institution in Bahrain, and is renowned for being the best of its chain in the Middle East. That’s right, Trader Vic’s continues to offer a chilled-out ambience with impressive décor, and a signature menu of food and drinks.

FACT went to unwind at this Polynesian paradise to see exactly what makes Trader Vic’s such a special social dining spot…

fact magazine

101

VENUE REVIEW

A little fun fact - Mai Tai is a famous drink, which came into existence in 1944. It was served to a customer, and upon tasting it, he said “Mai Tai Roa Ae” in Tahitian, which means “Out of this World.” Mai-Tai celebrated its 70th anniversary last year with a worldwide toast.

V

ictor Bergeron gifted us Trader Vic’s in the year 1934 after his two-year stint in Hawaii. His goal was to “inject the spirit of the island into our everyday lives” – and that’s when Trader Vic’s was born. Taking elements of island life, Trader Vic’s has become a celebrated worldwide brand, treating patrons to the coolest cocktails and finest fare.

Trader Vic’s Bahrain incorporates a

102 fact magazine

separate and uber stylish wooden bar area with wicker chairs, boasting an attractive cocktail and tid bits menu, and often home to live music. Adjacent to this is a stunning dining area serving Polynesian-fusion cuisine. Inside the high ceilings, large tables, and a massive hanging wooden-boat, give the restaurant an exotic shipwrecked feel – there’s even a private dining room if you’re looking to have more intimate gatherings.

The outdoor seating area with its huge

projector screen is popular during games season and in cooler weather. There’s also the Mai-Tai lounge, adding to the outdoor experience with cabana-style seating overlooking the beautiful blue waters.

For many regulars, and newcomers, at Trader Vic’s, it’s the cocktails that keep people coming back. Take the Tiki Puka Puka, for example, you’re guaranteed to see numerous glasses being carried to tables on your visit. Rest assured though, Trader Vic’s retains its fun atmosphere by playing it safe too. For example, there is now a limit to the number of Tiki Puka Puka’s one person can order – a great way to make sure that everyone has an enjoyable experience.

The venue’s non-alcoholic beverages are very well liked too – we loved the Puerto Pricipe (a pineapple-coconut classic) and the Marianas (fresh fruits and juices). On a bright, sunny afternoon, we take our seats and dive straight into the food menu.

Executive Chef Andy Hoppe popped by to have a chat and of course help us decide

VENUE REVIEW

what to order. He says: “I shall take you to a culinary journey; the Trader-Vic’s style”.

So we sat back to enjoy this tempting around the world experience. The menu is a delightful mix of different cuisines.

Kick-starting with the appetisers, first up was Island Tidbits; a trademark dish for two with Crab Rangoon, Chicken Wings, Crispy Prawns and Jalapeno Cheese balls.

We also opted for the Beef Cho Cho with the flaming Hibachi to keep your cho cho sticks sizzling hot. The Thai Promotion was on at the time of our visit, so we went for some yummy dim sum and Maki rolls – both palate pleasing! You’ll be happy to know that Trader Vic’s will run a new dining promotion every month, celebrating world cuisines, alongside the venue’s standard menu.

Next up it’s the main course. An already famous dish, which we just had to try, was the Spicy Chilli Hammour. With the feisty flavours of spicy and tangy together, this zing-filled main is our new favourite seafood dish in Bahrain – for real. Then things got serious – out came the beef steak with foie gras and sweet mango, on a bed of potato hash brown – simply divine. The Korean Chicken dish was also another taste bud pleaser – tender and full of flavour, accompanied by a side of rice.

By the end of this marathon eating we were in a bit of a food coma – that happens at Trader Vic’s because everything on the menu is just so irresistibly good. Get a few different dishes to share as the dishes here are served to make the sharing experience more enjoyable.

Though there’s a heavenly dessert menu with everything from warm chocolate cake to different ice creams and crème brulée, to name but a few, we ended with a cool cup of green tea with mint. It was refreshing and came with a fortune cookie – lovely little touch!

It’s not just the excellent food that makes the Trader Vic’s experience so appealing and popular to this day, it’s a combination of things such as the warm and welcoming staff, the stunning surroundings, the islandstyle décor, and the chilled-out crowd. We’d recommend it time and again!

GO: Trader Vic’s is located in Seef. Call 1758 6555 for reservations and more information. fact magazine

103

Foodie corner

A FRIDAY Food FEAST! Since the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay opened its doors to guests, the FACT team eagerly looked forward to the famous Friday Brunch the brand is renowned for. On a bright sunny Friday afternoon we drove down to Four Seasons to experience the plush brunch. It was impeccable from the word go!

A

fter playing host to a grand Royal Wedding the previous evening, the Four Seasons festivity continued with the Formula One fever. Through a packed lobby we walk down to the Bahrain Bay Kitchen where the Friday Brunch is served. Our eyes went straight to the dessert counter! Even non-dessert fans would find it irresistible.

After an exuberant welcome by the restaurant staff and chefs, they sat us down at our reserved table (make sure to reserve 104 fact magazine

your table in advance). We love the brightly lit ambiance, decorated with eclectic and elegant style. With spacious indoor and outdoor seating and a perfect view, Bahrain Bay kitchen is an ideal brunch destination.

The aroma of the food was divine! An initial stroll was on the cards to know more and not miss out on anything! Executive chef Stefano enthusiastically takes us on the Brunch Tour. Italian, Indian, Mexican, Japanese, Chinese and of course desserts; it was all there, piping hot and ready to be eaten. Each cuisine has ‘Chef de Cuisine’ who welcomes you with a smile and serves delicious food; this is a ten out of ten for us in terms of hospitality. Without any further delay, we grab our plates to experience the culinary affair. Get ready for decadent fare that will delight a food-loving palate.

Our Recommendations We say ‘try it all’. But for the ones who are not the foodie kind, we recommend you the must-haves (don’t you dare miss these). We start with the Japanese station – the sashimi melts in your mouth and sushi varieties include your regular favourites which are quite exceptional. The Chinese selection is mouth-watering. Fill your plate with the Hot Prawn Salad, Prawn Dim sums and the

crackers. A chef prepares some awesome duck rolls with lingering flavours - yum!

We eventually plumped for the roast dinner station where the chef was carving slices of perfectly cooked roasted beef accompanied by all the trimmings that elevated the flavour of the meat. Alongside was the succulent grilled chicken that was cooked to perfection.

If you’re a seafood aficionado, this moment will define your experience. The seafood spread at the brunch is lavish with lobster, shrimps, fish, crab, mussels and lots more.

The classic English breakfast serving creamy scrambled eggs, French toast and omelette with a selection of breads is a delight for ‘egg-centric’ peeps.

With such a stunning variety, we hadn’t even begun to scuff the surface of what was on offer! After a quick break, we decided to take the plunge into the Indian cuisine station. What better than Indian Kebabs infused with spices and flavours?! The platter includes potato, cottage cheese, chicken and prawns. From the uncooked skewers, to the Shish Taouk and even the Lamb Skewer, all are truly delicious.

Request the chef to grill it the way you like.

At this point we were stuffed to the brim, but not trying the desserts would

be a mistake! The indulgent desserts are served canapé style, so finding space was easy. Chocolate lovers treat yourselves with chocolate ice-cream, Chocolate Raspberry Cake, Tiramisu and of course, pick a marshmallow and dip it into the chocolate fountain and slurp it up, mmmm! No-choc desserts are plenty to come by too, the crème brulee is smooth and melt-in-your-mouth, the fruit platter or the blueberry panacotta are light and fresh too. These temptations cannot be missed however calorie conscious you are.

We suggest a spot of green tea to end. The Friday Brunch was a fun experience, and one that each of you should try at the earliest!

GO: Call 1711 5000 for bookings and more information. Download the app EAT to make your reservations with just a few clicks. fact magazine

105

SOCIETY

#Sean #Paul #performs #Live #At #Klub360 The legendary Jamaican rapper Sean Paul performed live at Klub 360 to launch the Formula One weekend in Bahrain. There was a special press conference held at the Elite Crystal Hotel for the media with Sean Paul for a one-on-one interaction.

106 fact magazine

Bahrain Bites

Seafood Mania

•

At the Red Lions Sports Lounge in Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, guests can unwind and recharge from early afternoon to midnight. With comfortably plush seating, an invigorating atmosphere, guests can now take pleasure in excellent drinks and savour the finest. Indulge in a lavish Seafood Platter while sipping your favourite drink every Thursday. Seafood platter includes lobster tail, prawns, local fresh fish fillet, French fries, salad and Two pints of ale; all this at BD15++ from 6pm to 10pm. Enjoy Happy Hour from 4pm to 8pm with a 50% discount on selected beverages.

GO: Call 1711 1999 for more information.

World

Beverage Tour

•

All connoisseurs of great food and wonderful drinks are invited to attend the Royal Golf Club’s first ever World Beverage Tour. This unique event will take place at the poolside on May 14, in the Club’s beautiful country club gardens. The evening will feature mouthwatering barbecue accompanied by beverage stations from around the world including hot drinks from Belgium and Japan, grape beverages from France and Chile as well as other tempting drinks from South Africa, Mexico, England and more.

DJ Rob will be spinning his unique blend of upbeat soul and jazz to make sure that the night really goes with a swing!

GO: Tickets for Club Members cost BD18 net per person and for non members BD22 net per person. Call the 1775 0777 for more information.

Happy 6th

Anniversary, Bushido

•

Bushido is home to some of Bahrain’s most impressive and memorable nightlife events, transforming its venue from a tranquil and luxurious Japanese restaurant into one of the chicest and most lively nightspots on the island.

Bushido Bahrain celebrates its 6th Anniversary on May 29 with second time Grammy Nominee Christina Milian featuring Buddha Bar’s DJ Ravin and Barrio Latino’s DJ Carlos Campos. The stunning Christina Milian will be performing a selection of her songs especially for this event. Supported by DJ Albert-L, this event kick-starts at 9pm and goes on until late, with free entry for all.

GO: For VIP Table Reservations call 1758 3555 for more information.

fact magazine

107

SOCIETY

#Paul #Van #Dyk #Live #At #Coral #Bay Bidding farewell to the successful 2015 Formula One, Coral Bay hosted a glorious closing party. All-time favourite, Grammy nominated Trance DJ, musician and super producer, Paul Van Dyk performed live for the grand F1 Closing Party! Top class entertainment and stunning dancers added a touch of glam throughout the F1 week.

108 fact magazine

Bahrain Bites

Insanely

Coast to Coast

The Steak

•

Lovers of good Italian food, head to La Pergola at The Gulf Hotel. Renowned for being one of Bahrain’s oldest Italian eateries, the intimate restaurant offers a fantastic Mediterranean ambience with a vaulted roof and striking wall murals depicting scenes of ancient Rome. Dishes are rustic with an emphasis on authentic and regional specialities. An excellent choice of fresh pasta and pizza dishes ensure that La Pergola retains its status as one of Bahrain’s best – and most atmospheric – Italian hot spots. During the month of May there’s the special “Aceto Balsamico” promotion where Chef Enrico combines style and taste using traditional, aged Italian Vinegar in modern recipes. Taste unique dishes like Parmegiano al Balsamico, Scampi Aceto and Gelato al caramello to name but a few.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel’s Steak Specialty Promotion at An Nada Lounge and Espressamente Illy Café is a fiesta for Steak lovers. Char Grilled Chicken Steak on Garlic and Mashed Potatoes accompanied with green peas, glazed carrots and grilled onions at BD4.9++. Grilled Lamb Loin on a Bed of Ratatouille accompanied with spicy skin potatoes at BD5.5++. US Angus Striploin of Beef accompanied with medley of vegetables and croquette potatoes at BD9.9++. These are some tantalising options, head to the restaurant to try all of it. All the dishes are served with Béarnaise sauce, black berry sauce or mushroom sauce.

Delicious Camelot Restaurant offers mouth-watering deals for its customers. Sangria vs Tapas is one of them where guests enjoy unlimited Tapas from the antipasti buffet and non-stop supply of refreshing Sangria for BD15 per person every Sunday. Celebrate the Spanish cuisine and culture with live entertainment

by Nathalie Karlsson. Indulge in Mussels at ‘Moules et Frites’ every Monday where one can revel in unlimited Mussels and fries for BD14 or add unlimited Mussels, fries and unlimited selected beverages for BD22.

GO: Call 1771 7745 or visit www.camelotrestaurant.net for more information.

•

Thunder!

•

GO: Call 1753 3533 for more information.

GO: This creative menu will be available in addition to the regular menu at La Pergola until May 31. Call 1771 3000 for more information.

fact magazine

109

SOCIETY

#Vapiano #Easter-themed #Cooking #Class Vapiano hosted an Easter-themed event for young children to try out their creative cooking skills! The little kids were kept busy making pizzas, decorating eggs and receiving prizes. Children had the opportunity to let out their inner chefs and artists. They began decorating their own bunny-shaped pizza following a brief tutorial by a certified Vapianist.

110 fact magazine

PEP TALK

The Men’s Room

Fly Me To Wherever It’s Fun

Yvonne Cole, Personal Trainer, believes that when you eat clean, train hard and trust the process, your consistency and patience pays off…

Christal Dennis, Personal Performance Coach and Hypnotherapist, is dedicated to helping people overcome life’s hurdles and tapping into their deepest potential...

“Men’s room?” I asked with a puzzled look on my face.

“There is NO men’s room in the gym, it’s the weights room.” I still find it strange that so many women are afraid to take just one footstep over the threshold of the weight area and men feel like their inner sanctum has been invaded. The weights room is for everybody.

Ladies don’t be afraid of the weights room.

Some years ago when I was working in London. one of my female clients nearly had a heart attack when she saw me leading her to what she referred to as “the men’s section.” A few months later she was so in love with lifting weights and what it did for her body.

You won’t become bulky or turn into a she-hulk. But you will gain confidence, selfesteem, and a fabulous body.

Regular weightlifting can increase your bone mass.

As women get older they begin to lose bone density so having a strong body while you’re in your 20s and 30s will pay off as you get older.

The more muscles you have

So there’s about eight weeks left before the schools have their summer holiday. My kids and I have already started counting down.

We have about 60 days left before summer holiday starts. Exciting times!

If you haven’t planned what you will be doing on your summer holiday yet, now might be a good time to start. But oh dear! Where to begin? Where will you go? Where do the kids and your spouse want to go? You can make it very easy for yourself if you engage your imagination and how you would like to feel on your holiday. This could be a very fun and enjoyable part of your vacation experience.

You can be amazed at how good your imagination can make you feel.

The best place to start on creating a perfect holiday is with how you could feel.

Imagine yourself in various situations and notice how each imagined setting makes you feel. The setting that makes you feel the best is most probably going to be the most fun holiday for you.

the more calories you will burn at rest, muscles speed up your metabolism which results in more effective fat loss.

When it comes to looking bulky most women just don’t possess the testosterone necessary to gain that physique and those that do are most likely taking something to give them a helping hand.

Remember Ladies, STRONG is the new sexy.

GO: Email ymcfitness@gmail.com or call 3935 9105 for more information.

Once you have really got a nice setting in your mind, you can now start looking around on the internet or holiday brochures for what matches what you have created in your mind.

From here you can start to allow your holiday to expand in your mind.

Include friends and loved ones and ways in which you could all have fun together.

Here would be the best time to find out what your loved ones would find most exciting. Do lots of talking and imagining as a family about the fun you would like to have!

Here’s to summer time fever!

GO: For a personal consultation call 3669 6666. fact magazine

111

SOCIETY

#Cavalli #Club #World #Tour #At #Muju The Cavalli Club World Tour LANDED ON OUR SHORES AT Muju in the Dragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj Islands. Cavalli Club resident violinist and Official Cavalli club opening DJS - AJ, AND DJ Jack are some of the artists who performed at this plush party. Guests enjoyed a fun evening with dance, music and loads of GREAT TUNES AND entertainment.

112 fact magazine

PEP TALK

Holiday Time!

If you’re wondering what the word on the street is, the country’s own Blonde in Bahrain, Georgina Jannsen, has her finger on the pulse.

This month she’s discussing summer travels…

What I’ll Do This Summer Marina Smera

Georgina Jennsen Georgina Jennsen is the blogger behind the popular lifestyle blog, Blonde in Bahrain.

Georgina loves all things beautiful and luxurious.

Almost every time I go online to book a holiday, I count my blessings that I chose Bahrain as my base. Compared to my hometown of Melbourne, Australia, which is a million miles away from anywhere really worth going to, Bahrain is literally surrounded by amazingly colourful and historic travel destinations.

Popping over to Beirut for a party is entirely plausible, as is catching a connection to Kerala for a delicious early-morning dosa.

And speaking of holidays, I’ve just booked mine for the summer and I’m super-Turkishdelighted. I’m starting with a city stay in Istanbul. I’ll wander around the wondrous Topkapi Palace and revel in risqué stories of the sultan’s multitude of concubines in the harem, before heading under the Galata Bridge to grab the freshest fish sambo in town. Then I’ll fly down to the old coastal town of Side in Antalya, assume a yogic downward dog position, and stay that way until I feel totally and utterly omm. Bliss!

This summer I’m bringing all the exotic islands in my house, even Thomas Cook might get a bit jealous. No exotic getaway, it would rather be get-and-stay. All my friends should start booking their visits, as my garden will become the most idyllic retreat.

Will drink my water with lemon from a coconut shell.

Will prepare every morning all inclusive breakfast, with eggs, bacon, cereal, pancakes, fresh juice, coffee, cheese, fruit salad, toast, muffins, croissants, oatmeal.

Will spray tan and will apply exotic oils every 30 minutes even if I have to wear a suit and go to the office. A double suit, actually, as I’ll be wearing my pineapple print bathing suit underneath.

Will wake up every morning with mosquito bites (need to leave all my windows open).

Will have to change my passport, I think it expired.

Will have to gain at least 5 kg.

Will buy useless & tacky souvenirs . My fridge is

screaming for a local magnet.

Will convince my boyfriend to wear speedos in the bathtub.

Will take 250 pictures/ day even if it’s with the postman, the cleaning lady, my doctor, the mall or even a selfie enjoying my Pina Colada.

Will learn how to make a proper Pina Colada.

Will buy sand and palm trees in a pot (maybe I find at IKEA) Or should I buy a cactus?

Will definitely find myself munching on crispy crickets or durian fruit ice cream (this will be a smelly one for sure).

Will put sand in the shower and get the drains clogged.

Oh, and by the way, in winter I’m going to Seychelles. fact magazine

113

Anastasios Fragkopoulos Cards, Marketing & e-Business Manager, Citibank

To win the “Best Consumer Internet Bank” in 2011, 2013 & 2014 is pretty impressive. What sets your online service apart from competitors?

Citi’s journey towards digitalisation focuses primarily on digital transformation. As one of the best leading global banks, we are keen to continue to provide unparalleled online services within a secured environment. During the past years, we have been the leaders in this field thanks to a series of actions providing the most remarkable digital experience to our customers yet. Lower online rates on one hand and robust 114 fact magazine

island insider

digital targets on the other, ensured Citi and its online platforms are by default the primary choice of our customers any time, any place.

Tell us your 3 favourite FOOD spots in Bahrain and why...

Monsoon, in Adliya, which I consider architecturally one of the most beautiful restaurants in the Kingdom combining Asian serenity and sublime tastes. Sato in Gulf Hotel, which to me represents ultimate quality and freshness when it comes to sushi, with the signature of a legendary local five-star hotel. Finally, Vapiano, in City Centre, for a quick and healthy option during the weekend’s

franticness, with the kids, in the midst of a crowded mall.

What’s coming up for Citi?

Citi never ceases to impress! In 2015 we will be the only bank in the region to provide our Credit Card customers the option to redeem their reward points through an online platform called Global Rewards. This is another Citi innovation where customers can redeem their points towards a global catalogue of over 5,000 merchandise of leading brands, have the ability to transfer points to 11 major airlines, 3 international chains of hotels and the flexibility to use this platform as their one-stop travelling needs engine for booking flights and hotels.

fact magazine

115

116 fact magazine