FACT Bahrain November 2022

BEACHFRONT OASIS NOW OPEN

Discover a new wave of luxury and hospitality along the shores of Marassi Al Bahrain.

The iconic luxury brand is now welcoming guests.

Taking The Air

November is a time for celebrating the end of summer. The oppressive heat, that has felt longer this year than ever before, has finally abated and we can begin to enjoy the gorgeous, balmy autumn weather. From barbecues with pals to festivals, walks and the opportunity to embrace new hobbies, on our little island, the coming of winter is a time for new beginnings. Whether it’s getting out in the garden or taking a long stroll in nature, it’s most definitely time to get outside while we can and that’s the theme of our cover story this month in which we’ve looked at lots of different ways you can enjoy the great outdoors. Sticking with the al fresco theme, we’ve also got the lineup for the BNP Paribas Jazz Fest 2022 and there are some seriously impressive names. I, for one, will certainly be heading down to Bahrain Rugby Football Club to join in the fun. If you fancy joining in, make sure to keep an eye on our social media for chances to win tickets.

Of course, we can’t ignore another rather large event that’s happening this month, the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and lots of venues across the island will be setting up special spaces for fans. If you’re keen to get an eyeful of ‘the beautiful game’ there are plenty of places to watch, from special tents to great food and drinks offers, we’ve got details of them all.

In our interviews this month, we catch up with the man behind Porsche on the island as well as a familiar face on the hospitality scene, who’s gained himself a big promotion. Congrats to him. And, in the dining section, we’ve tried out some truly exceptional venues.

If gadgets are your thing, make sure to check out the Plugged In section where we’ve reviewed two of the latest smartphone releases. There’s also our regular roundups of news from the worlds of motoring, fashion and entertainment as well as happenings across the island in the Listen Up section. Welcome to winter everyone, join us in enjoying it.

DIRECTOR

OMAR SHAHEEN

PUBLISHER

RAMI KHALIL (rami@fact-magazine.com)

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

LIZ O’REILLY (editorial@fact-magazine.com)

DIGITAL TEAM

SARA WADDAH TANUSHREE MATHUR

SALES TEAM

MERIEM SAMOUL SARA CHAKIB

ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN

GRAPHIC DESIGNER SACHAN CHANDRAN

PHOTOGRAPHY SHAREEF PANHATT

CONTRIBUTORS

AMAL SARHAN GARETH WOODS MELISSA NAZARETH

PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION

AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD

ENQUIRIES

Tel: +973 3632 0131 E-mail: rami@fact-magazine.com

PRINTED BY UNION PRESS

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

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 24 Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef. Ministry of Information. Subject Registration Number: CFB779

“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

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“The antidote to exhaustion isn’t rest. It’s nature.” –Shikoba

AN ICONIC NEW ADDRESS

The 154-room luxury apartment complex and 117room hotel are a picture of royal splendour with the sleek exterior matched by equally stylish interior design and furnishings. Guests are immediately put at ease by the soothing tones and clean lines of the space, which exudes a refreshing calm with a vivacious twist. The extensive collection of services is par for the course at Address hotels. Whether it's dinner with the one you love, a business breakfast or just a quick bite, rest assured you'll enjoy a meal of world-class quality.

While the restaurant’s menu is inspired by cuisines from around the world and features organic ingredients, The Lounge provides a more casual setting ideal for snacking on healthy fare. Alternatively, visitors can head to The Garden, where they can eat and drink while taking in the picturesque waterfront scenery. In this gorgeous setting, you can also relax and pamper yourself to your heart's content. The six cutting-edge treatment rooms at the Spa by Address Beach Resort Bahrain are designed to revitalise body, mind and spirit.

Those with a more energetic disposition can take advantage of the gym's cutting-edge training equipment. And the splash pool and Qix Kids Club will keep the little ones occupied.

The hotel is an excellent choice for business and social gatherings, as it provides the ideal setting for memorable conferences, weddings and other special occasions. Modern meeting rooms boast cutting-edge AV equipment and seating for up to 160 guests, while a private beach with glistening waters in the background is also available for wedding ceremonies.

Mark Kirby Head of Hospitality at parent company Emaar Hospitality Group said: “The Address Beach Resort Bahrain is a phenomenal establishment and we can't wait to finally unveil it to the people of Bahrain. Guests of Address properties can rest assured that they will receive the same high-quality service they have come to expect from the brand.

"From the décor, fittings and ambiance, through to the gastronomic offering and amenities, our guests will be amazed at their stays with us."

To unwind, rejuvenate and enjoy oneself, nothing beats this stunning beachfront retreat with its picture-perfect setting. ✤

The much-anticipated Address Beach Resort Bahrain has opened its doors on the beautiful shores of Marassi Al Bahrain.

LUXURIOUS BEACHFRONT DINING

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain invites you to The Riviera, its popular pop-up concept, which has reopened for this season.

Set against the sparkling Arabian Gulf, The Riviera by The RitzCarlton, Bahrain is set to host diners for a new season. The hotel’s beachfront pop-up concept will showcase the beauty, glamour and rich culinary traditions of the French and Italian Riviera through an ensemble of curated dishes from Chef de Cuisine Alexis Knecht, who specialises in extraordinary Provencal cooking, focused on preserving the taste and texture of fresh ingredients.

It’s the perfect location to enjoy the high life and appreciate the bespoke gastronomic experience offered by a dedicated team.

The Riviera’s interior design includes acrylic panels to show off the sweeping coastal views, with simple yet elegant decor. The restaurant adds touches of modernity with an elaborate centrepiece on each table and features an extended patio to

enjoy a well-deserved drink while taking in the stunning views. Elevating the guest experience with a brand-new approach, The Riviera is hosting a themed soiree every Friday with an array of live performances, in collaboration with Playlist Entertainment, bringing the French Riviera-styled atmosphere to the popular venue. On November 4, you can enjoy a White Party, a night in all white. Head down dressed in white and indulge in dinner, drinks and dancing. The pop-up restaurant is open from Wednesday to Saturday, from 5pm to 11pm. ✤

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

Gulf Hotel Bahrain is inviting you to enjoy Bahrain’s most grand event, the Gulf Night Out, which has returned to the scene.

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa has announced the much-anticipated return of the island’s celebrated and exclusive outdoor event – the Gulf Night Out, which will take place on November 1, 15 and 22.

Guests can enjoy Gulf Hotel’s outdoor-themed dining experience along with an extensive variety of cuisines, live cooking stations and dishes from 10 of its award-winning restaurants. The event takes place in the venue’s gorgeous gardens and is the ideal opportunity to make the most of the cooler weather.

The much-awaited evenings are filled with exciting live entertainment, including a belly dancer, music by talented performers from Al Rayyash entertainment and a chance to win amazing prizes! Beautiful weather and exquisite culinary collections make the event a favourite for both locals and expats alike. With its live music and non-stop entertainment, the Gulf Night Out is not to be missed! So, head down there with your family and friends and have a night to remember. ✤

GAME ON!

The Westin City Centre Bahrain has launched Nasmat Arena, an exclusive venue for football fans, ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

In preparation for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the biggest football event of the year, The Westin City Centre Bahrain has introduced Nasmat Arena. Starting this month, the rooftop venue will cater to football lovers and offer exciting food and beverage promotions. Head to this sports hub to support your favourite team as you tuck into delicious bites and sip on refreshing drinks. While indoor seating is available, the venue also has an idyllic poolside setting, perfect for the cooler months that lie ahead.

Located in the heart of Manama, The Westin City Centre Bahrain is the first-ever Westin Hotel to grace the island. It’s attached to City Centre Bahrain, arguably the Kingdom’s most popular retail and leisure destination with more than 340 retail stores. The hotel offers 200 beautifully appointed guest rooms, including six Executive Suites and one Royal Suite. All rooms feature signature amenities. The Heavenly

Spa by Westin features 10 treatment rooms with separate facilities for men and women, plus one of Bahrain's largest hammams or Turkish baths. Whether you're celebrating an important occasion, want to enjoy a healthy meal or feel like spending a casual evening with friends, you can avail of a wide range of dining outlets.

The upcoming FIFA World Cup is the 22nd edition of the tournament, and the first to be played in the Arab world. Sports fans across the globe will witness 32 teams battle it out across stadiums in Qatar from November 20 to December 18. ✤

TURKISH NIGHT

Every Friday night from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Indulge in a culinary journey rooted in the rich Turkish history. An unforgettable feast awaits you in Baharat.

BHD 19 net includes soft drinks

BHD 29 net includes selected beverages

For more information or to make a reservation, please WhatsApp +973 3888 5841.

All prices quoted are in Bahraini Dinar and are inclusive of 10% VAT, 5% government levy and 10% service charge.

LE

FOOTBALL’S

COMING HOME

Vida Beach Resort Bahrain is transforming into the ‘Home Of Football’ throughout the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

They’re going football crazy at the Diyar Al Muharraq property where they’ve got plans for days for all the football fans out there. With direct access to a mesmerising 2km beach and a modern contemporary aesthetic, Origins' al fresco terrace is preparing to welcome you, from November 20 to December 18, to cheer to a live screening of all games on their three giant (5mx3m) screens! You won’t miss a thing, especially when they’re opening the games with an amazing 50% off food and beverage (F&B) on the first game night, November 20.

And because it’s Vida Bahrain’s first time celebrating the true football spirit, they’re commemorating with a Predict & Win daily competition that allows you to enter a daily raffle and win prizes at the end of every game.

Since Vida Bahrain is all about making everyone happy, the Monday Ladies' Special gives female customers 50% off on F&B every Monday during games.

Want to watch the matches with your mates? Get your cheering squad of five or more down to Vida’s match nights for a banging football fever fiesta where you can catch all the action and enjoy your favourite bites with 20% off on your total bill. Wondering what to do later on? The excitement continues with

Offside Happy Hours – 25% off selected beverages after the games! And Vida Football happenings have even more offers, including 15% off for whoever is wearing their team jersey on their match days and Vida Vouchers to enjoy big F&B discounts on your next visit.

As if all that’s not enough, fans can also look forward to three Vida Football Friday Brunches starting from November 25 until December 9!

But, it’s not quite all about football. Because mental and physical health is important, Vida Beach Resort Bahrain is observing Bahraini Doctors’ Day offering all docs 30% off on F&B along with free beach access on November 2.

And whether you want to enjoy the football or just get away from it all, a well-deserved staycation awaits you with exclusive rates starting from BD65 net. Book seven days in advance and enjoy 10% off or 21 days prior to your stay for a fab 15% off. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.VIDAHOTELS.COM FOR

HAVE A BALL

It’s November, which means it’s, once again, time for the Poppy Ball, one of if not the only remaining ball on the Kingdom’s social scene.

Organiser, the Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) has announced that the fundraising event will take place on November 10. And it’s a much-awaited piece of news as the ball was put on hold for three years during the pandemic. The event, which is one of the most popular on the island, will be held at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel’s Grand Ambassador Ballroom. Chelsea Pensioners James David Lycett (Warrant Officer Class 2), 77, and William Kenneth Knowles (Warrant Officer Class 2), 68, will be in attendance as VIP Guests of Honour, as well as the UK's Red Arrows. During their visit, British forces veterans, James and William, who represent The Royal Hospital Chelsea, will also be making school visits, attending British Embassy functions and touring local attractions. The highlight of their visit will be laying a wreath at the Memorial Service to mark Remembrance Day, as well as the Poppy Ball.

The ball has been organised in support of the Chelsea Pensioners Appeal and the Mother and Child Welfare Society Bahrain, which has been a leader in voluntary work in the Kingdom since 1953 and has played a dominant role in empowering the women and children of Bahrain.

The Poppy Ball will begin at 7pm with a welcome reception and a buffet dinner will be followed by music from 9pm onwards with

DJ Daniel and a live performance by the band The Pastmasters. The dress code is evening or cocktail dresses for ladies and dinner suits with black ties or national dress for gentlemen. A raffle will be organised during the ball with many exciting prizes up for grabs, including two British Airways World Traveller Plus return tickets to London.

The Chelsea Pensioners’ visits to Bahrain have become a yearly custom. BBBF Chairman, Khalid Al Zayani OBE, attributed the success of their arrival to the generosity of local companies saying: “The Pensioners immensely enjoy their visits to Bahrain and always comment on the kind-hearted and generous welcome they receive. I would like to thank our main sponsors Cebarco, Gulf Brands International, British Airways, Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover and The Diplomat Radisson Blue Hotel for their generosity.” ✤

GO: VISIT THE MAIN RECEPTIONS OF THE BRITISH CLUB, BAHRAIN RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB OR THE DILMUN CLUB OR CONTACT THE BBBF ON BBBFEVENTS@BATELCO.COM.BH FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TICKETS.

A Culinary tour of Italy

Experience the very best of Italy with renowned international Italian Chef Giuseppe D’Alessio with our Italian Week from 14-22, November 2022. Immerse yourself in the very best of Italian cuisine with a range of Italian themed experiences to choose from.

Italian Week

READY FOR TAKE OFF!

Bahrain International Airshow has announced the inclusion of a dedicated Family Area.

The Bahrain International Airshow 2022 (BIAS) has announced the release of Family Area tickets for its upcoming sixth edition of the airshow, which is taking place from November 9 to 11 under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. There is an exciting array of entertainment on offer at this year's edition with the Family Area zone open from 10am to 6pm over the course of the three-day event. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including a dedicated heritage village that will offer a variety of local products made in Bahrain, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development, and a food festival, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, along with live performances from authentic Bahraini folklore bands. Bahraini musicians, including Bu Dawas, Ahmed Al Qasim and Mohammed Al Eraied, along with band Do You Really Like It, DJ Wanasah and DJ Sarah, will perform throughout the event. While the Family Area does not include access to the aircraft exhibition area, which is restricted to aviation and business delegates, individuals and families can enjoy watching the pilots show off their skills as they perform exciting stunts in the skies above Sakhir. Visitors who book in the Family Area can also meet the pilots when they pay a visit to the zone with teams from all over the world, including the UK Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, Global Star, and the

United Arab Emirates' Cavalry team. The Family Area will also offer a variety of entertainment for kids such as face painting, contests and games with the participation of their favourite cartoon characters. Educational and fun workshops for kids between eight and 12 years will be held in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Clever Play. Tickets for the Family Area for those aged 12 and above are priced at BD5 per day, while entry is free for children under the age of 12. Tickets can be purchased and used for one of the three days and are sold online on the Bahrain International Airshow website, at all Bahrain Post outlets, and can also be purchased directly from the event’s location at Sakhir. Taking place at Sakhir Air Base, the event is under the supervision of HH Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Personal Representative of His Majesty the King and the Chairman of the BIAS Supreme Organising Committee. BIAS is organised by the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and the Royal Bahraini Airforce in cooperation with Farnborough International. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.BAHRAININTERNATIONALAIRSHOW.COM

A BRAND-NEW HAPPENING

A one-of-a-kind, intimate micro-fest is coming to the island courtesy of The Social Animal, an arts and music-led events initiative.

Celebrating our inherent need to create and connect, Bahrainborn The Social Animal is hosting the first edition of its microfest series titled Firefly, on November 18. The social experience brand aims to contribute to the live entertainment scene of the Kingdom through events that are immersive and driven by original art and expression.

Firefly will be an intimate gathering replete with live music, performances and interactive sessions, food and drinks and, above all, the opportunity to connect with fellow social animals. Starting as a chilled-out sundowner, the event will progress into a lively sonic kaleidoscope, featuring some of the Kingdom’s most exciting electronic music acts. Expect a chill vibe, where you can relax and just be, enjoy good music, immerse yourself in art or geek-out discussing your favourite genre of music or whatever else you may like.

Adding a layer of mystery is the micro-fest’s venue, which is a surprise and will be revealed to ticket holders 24 to 48 hours prior to the event.

The line-up:

Ahmed Zainal (QWRK, Ed Buzzerk, Slim Fit Tea) is a versatile Bahraini electronic music producer who has been delving into the underbelly of the Bahraini music scene for over 20 years. He has performed at MDL Beast Soundstorm 2021 in Riyadh, Boiler Room in Bahrain (2021) and Bahrain Jazz Fest (Jazz X Machina).

Khalil Rasool as Enokitakee promises a wild adventure of sound that resets the heart and expands the mind bringing to light a rare

collection of music from around the world curated over five years. Native Tourists: Sumit Sharma and Fadal Nazir join forces to form this electrifying outfit that combines their varied musical backgrounds to deliver a unique sound packed with energy and nuance. Guitarist Khalil Qureshi accompanies them on some tracks. Ryan James has been a native of Bahrain’s alternative music scene for over a decade, having participated in numerous projects, playing music in a variety of genres. His alter ego, Mr. James, dives into the electronic sphere, spinning unique sounds influenced by music styles such as dub, synthwave and glitch. ORO, the electronic music project by Joshua Jonathan Pandit, will showcase a special set of house jazz, promising big sound and big fun!

Apart from the live music acts, Firefly also features an immersive performance art experience called the House of Oracle, in which Tanita Still explores and embodies the mystery of the oracle through movement and sound. There will also be micro interactive sessions called The Alternative Invasion, hosted by Riccardo Dotti, which will explore the evolution of music and artists through the 1970s to 2000s, into more sophisticated music subgenres, such as post-punk, indie rock and trip hop. ✤ GO:

Setting the scene for joyous moments of togetherness, Choices Restaurant & Terrace will transform into a festive celebration of Thanksgiving delights. Gather with your loved ones and experience a festive afternoon along with live music entertainment. Friday 25th November 2022 12.30pm – 4.00pm Choices Restaurant BD26 net per person, BD36 net inclusive of alcoholic beverages

A CUP FOR EVERY TASTE

Nespresso continues to surprise coffee connoisseurs and lovers, this time with the launch of Vertuo Coffee System.

Known for high-quality espresso, Nespresso, the pioneer of the portioned coffee market, has launched the new Vertuo coffee brewing system. It offers 35 blends and single origins in a range of five sizes for coffee lovers to enjoy. Whether you are in the mood to impress your friends over brunch or looking for that quick espresso after lunch, Vertuo offers versatility for every taste and moment.

The Vertuo system introduces Centrifusion technology and a new range of coffee capsule sizes that together allow for different coffee styles, from espresso to a large cup. At the touch of a button, the intelligent system automatically recognises the variety being brewed and adjusts extraction parameters to create a quality, dark, full-bodied coffee, finished with a silky and generous crema. Nespresso currently has three designs of the Vertuo system available: Vertuo Next, Vertuo Next Premium and Vertuo Next Deluxe. All have the simple one-touch button and feature the Centrifusion technology. Nespresso also offers a wide range of sleek and stylish Vertuo coffee accessories which are cool and practical additions to any Vertuo lover’s collection. From glass coffee cup and mug sets

to carafes sets from which to pour this elixir, there are Vertuo accessories to suit every moment. Sustainability is at the heart of everything Nespresso does. In line with this approach, all coffee capsules, including the Vertuo range, are made from aluminium, an infinitely recyclable material, which carefully protects the freshness, quality and taste of the coffees. Nespresso has invested in its recycling programmes and is committed to making it as simple and convenient as possible for consumers to recycle their used capsules. Additionally, all Nespresso systems are equipped with an energy-saving mode or an automatic power-off function to minimise energy use. Vertuo Next machines also come with a fully recyclable pack made from 99.5% recycled material: recycled paper, moulded paper and paper foil to protect the machine from scratches. ✤

IT’S GARDEN TIME

As the weather cools, it’s the perfect time of year to get out in the garden, so Danube Home has launched its all-new My Garden 2023 E-Catalogue.

The leading home improvement and furniture retailer has produced the catalogue to introduce its brand-new Garden Collection, which features items suitable for just about any outdoor space.

Adel Sajan, Danube Group Managing Director, said: “The theme of the E-Catalogue this year is ‘From Dream to Reality’. The catalogue showcases extremely well-curated products for all kinds of outdoor spaces, be it a small apartment balcony or a sprawling lawn or backyard in a villa. The designs cater to different aesthetic sensibilities, which means everyone will find something they love to make their dream garden a reality.”

The range of products includes gazebos and pergolas, balcony sets, sofa sets, dining sets, swings, parasols, outdoor lighting and garden accessories. The products are designed to be sturdy and durable to withstand weather conditions outdoors.

Danube Home also offers a Design and Develop service for those looking to get customised solutions for their home interiors and exteriors.

“When designing a home or a garden, customers are often inspired by images they see on Pinterest or home design magazines. Their home is their pride and joy and each person has their very own idea of how their dream home looks. With Danube Home My Garden 2023, we decided to make these dreams come true. Our products have been curated after a careful study of what our customer needs and what’s currently trending,” said Director Sayed Habib.

“For customers with a unique vision, we have our Design and Develop team equipped to create completely customised outdoor fittings, whether it is a massive gazebo, an expansive seating space or a well-fitted outdoor barbecue area.”

The expert Design and Develop team at Danube Home is equipped to handle all kinds of customisations, from upholstering cushions with the fabric of one’s choice to building a tailored grand gazebo in a chosen design and material.

Shubhojit Mahalanobis, General Manager at Danube Group, said: “The demand for good quality outdoor furniture has certainly gone up since the pandemic and with Danube Home’s latest offering, and the option to customise and execute any scope of project, Danube Home aims to become the most reliable outdoor furniture brand in the region. Due to the steady demand for our products in this region, we have made a strategic decision to open one more showroom at Al Hidd near Lulu mall and we’re very excited about it.”

The brand currently has a kiosk inside Lulu Mall displaying their outstanding outdoor products as a prelude to the new store opening. The My Garden 2023 e-catalogue is user friendly and can be viewed on all Android and iOS devices. ✤ GO:

Speakeasies’ Swing Band!

The Speakeasies’ Swing Band! (SSB) is a renowned Greek swing jazz band that has headlined and played at jazz festivals the world over. Since 2010, they have been touring Greece and performing at global festivals. SSB has shared a stage with notable artists such as Parov Stelar, Ray Collins, Cherry Poppin Daddies and Hillbilly Moon Explosion.

Arqam Al Abri

Arqam is a rising Emirati soul and blues star. A popular name at most regional festivals, he will be making his debut in the Kingdom with Bahrain Jazz Fest. Arqam will serenade the audience with a very special show of blues and soul with a twist of Arabic music.

Florence & The Bare Souls

A Bristol-based blues band fronted by Florence Pardoe, Florence & The Bare Souls features musicians who have worked with the likes of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Freyia, Ellie Ford and Backbeat Soundsystem. This up-and-coming British blues-funk band has performed on TV and at famous festivals such as Glastonbury, Boomtown, Shambala and Wilderness.

Malavita!

Malavita! are a UK-based band that will close out the BNP Paribas stage at Bahrain Jazz Fest. They have a unique sound, which fuses ska, Latin jazz and funk. The band will make their first ever international debut in Bahrain. Festivals they have played at include Boomtown, Isle of Wight and the Great Estate Festival.

LOCAL TALENTS

Bahrain Jazz Collective Formed specifically for this year’s Jazz Fest, the band features the all-star Bahraini jazz group of Ahmed AlQasim, Esraa J, Mohammed Rashid, Abdulla Haji, Abdulla Adnan and Khalid Alshamlan – regulars at the festival over the years in various bands.

Majaz

Majaz is an earthy, four-piece fusion-folk band. Their progressivedriven mix of genres, forged by their unconventional blend of instruments, has been widely recognised, making them one of the island's most unique musical acts. Formed in 2013, Majaz has been performing live for several years and released their first single in October 2016.

HotboxGroove

With their unique sound of blues, funk and fusion, the band will be playing some of their recently released original music for the first time to a live audience. They just came out with their first single Midnight Blooms and are a band that’s not to be missed.

Bahrain Chamber Orchestra

The Bahrain Chamber Orchestra (BCO) is a newly formed music group made up of 30 members. Led by Scott Rogal, the band will make their debut performance at the festival, exhibiting some showmanship, with a big band formation in New Orleans jazz and funk style.

Paul Lay

Bahrain Chamber orchestra

Speakeasies

Florence & The Bare Souls

American School of Bahrain Big Band

This outstanding, newly formed band is made up of students at the American School of Bahrain. They will be playing in a big band format, highlighting the jazz talent of Bahrain’s youth.

St. Christopher’s School Big Band

This band, comprising students from St. Christopher’s School, will be making their second appearance at the Bahrain Jazz Fest and promise to put on a soulful yet jazzy performance.

Jude D’Souza, Managing Director of Clockwork, said: “The BNP Paribas Jazz Fest has been a labour of our love for jazz and Bahrain. Our efforts have always been to curate a worldclass event that not only brings internationally acclaimed jazz musicians to Bahrain but also celebrates the often-overlooked local talent that Bahrain has to offer.

“Until now, we have pushed in excess of USD100,000 back into music communities through cash awards for locally talented musicians, artist fees and appearance engagements. Through our presenting partner, BNP Paribas, we are leveraging the continued growth of the festival to build a jazz culture among communities in Bahrain.

“Our recent strategic partnership with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority has allowed us to attract tourists from all over the world to Bahrain through increased marketing and promotional activities. We are very excited and humbled to garner the support of our partners and sponsors, encouraging us to better the show year on year and ensure that the Bahrain

Jazz Fest is a truly top-notch event for the Kingdom.”

Amine Bel Hadj Soulami, CEO of BNP Paribas for the Middle East and Africa said: “As dedicated jazz supporters, BNP Paribas is pleased to be the Presenting Partner for the Bahrain Jazz Fest for the sixth time in a row. We believe that jazz music brings people together and continually reinvents itself. The much-anticipated musical event in Bahrain will showcase a lot of new regional and international talents. We are particularly proud of the educational and community events that take place in the run up to the event, nurturing jazz amongst the young talents in Bahrain. The BNP Paribas Foundation has been supporting jazz for over 25 years in many countries all over the world, and Bahrain is firmly on our global calendar.” Tickets for the event are priced at BD20 per person for those who are 15 years and above and BD10 for those between seven and 14 years, kids aged six years and under can enter for free. Anyone under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are available online and in-store at Virgin Megastore. ✤

Make sure to keep an eye on FACT’s social media @factmagazine and FACTBahrain on Facebook for a chance to win tickets. GO: VISIT WWW.BAHRAINJAZZFEST.COM

Majaz

HotboxGroove

Bahrain Jazz Collective

St. Christopher’s School Big Band

OUT & ABOUT

The weather is cooling down and it’s the perfect time to plan some fun outdoors. There’s so much to do in Bahrain if you know exactly where to look. FACT has scoured the island for exciting activities.

It’s that time of the year when everything starts getting festive. The winter ushers in good vibes, putting us in the mood to get outdoorsy. The island is home to numerous initiatives and activities that will keep you busy. Whether you fancy admiring Bahrain’s mesmerising sunsets, sipping on a coffee al fresco or are looking for something more adrenaline boosting such as rowing or horse riding, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we share the most interesting things to see and do in the Kingdom over the coming months.

Bahrain Rowing & Canoe Centre

While the temperatures are dropping, there’s still time left to catch up on that last bit of fun in the water. Explore Bahrain’s rich maritime tradition with Bahrain Rowing & Canoe Centre (BRC). Established in 2016, they provide both amateur and experienced rowers with a platform to learn and compete. You can either create your own team or reach out to them and they’ll find a team to put you on. The team becomes like your family because you practice and enter competitions together. They have different types of boats that you can rent. While dragon boats are more suited for beginners, those who have a background in rowing can go for the rowing boats. If you want to level up, register for their classes, which run for an hour and a half, covering all techniques including racing. The classes are held every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoon and priced at BD5 per person. However, if you attend as a team, you will end up paying much less. BRC is a social enterprise and makes its services accessible to as many as possible. A team of 20 renting a boat, for instance, would have to pay just about 700 fils per person!

GO: Call 3558 6373 to learn about BRC’s activities and upcoming events.

Ladies Night At Teatro

Ladies, call up your girlfriends, put on your high heels and make your way to Teatro, Downtown Rotana for a ladies night full of fun and good vibes.

Every Wednesday and Thursday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, get 2 complimentary cocktails and save 25% on the à la carte menu.

For reservations and more information, please call +973 1311 9999 or email teatro.downtown@rotana.com

Downtown

PO Box 18345, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, T:+973 1311 9999, downtown.hotel@rotana.com

Throw A BBQ Party

Head to the seaside in Juffair or Bahrain Bay and have a barbecue party. For those who prefer something low-key, cooking steaks on your front porch or terrace isn’t such a bad idea either. The whole point is to get out and socialise. There are many hotels on the island that host BBQ dinners too. The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa will host BBQ Master Pit American Night, a BBQ extravaganza. You can enjoy a fine selection of red meat, local American street food and brews, every Monday, from 7pm to 10.30pm. The offer is priced starting at BD18 plus tax. You could also head to Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain for a BBQ by the poolside terrace. Order your table BBQ of fine Frankfurter sausages, shish tawook, beef tenderloin and lamb chops and grill them the way you like it. The offer is priced at BD12+++ per person and runs daily from 7pm to 11pm at Palms Terrace.

GO: Call The Gulf Hotel on 1771 3000 and Mövenpick Hotel on 3364 0032 for more information and to make a reservation.

Unwind Al fresco At A Cafe Or Restaurant

There’s no dearth of cafes or restaurants on the island. Many of them have exquisite outdoor areas or rooftops that come alive at this time of the year. While Bahrain spoils you for choice when it comes to F&B (food and beverage) venues, we’re specifically talking about the off-beat ones such as Darseen Cafe located at Bahrain National Museum. It has a beautiful al fresco dining area, offering a mesmerising seafront view. Being located in the same premises as the museum lends this space a certain cultural touch that you can enjoy as you tuck into rustic local dishes and international fare. Offering similar vibes is GB Cafe, a concept by Green Bar, serving Bahraini staples and contemporary dishes. Head to the outlet that’s located at Bahrain Fort. They have an al fresco dining area and it’s magical to watch the sunset from here, while the sea serenades you with the sound of the waves. GO: Visit @darseencafebh and @greenbarcafe on Instagram for more information.

Workout In The Great Outdoors

While hitting the gym or attending a Zumba class is all good, exercising outdoors has its benefits. You’re exposed to the natural elements, which is refreshing and a welcome break from air-conditioned spaces. Bahrain has many walking tracks, including the popular 3-kilometre one in Arad near the airport, those in Juffair, Hidd and Sitra, and, most recently, the one at Um Al Hassam. Some have manual exercise equipment that you can use for free. Others rent equipment such as kick scooters. Most have a space for children to play, which is a win-win – your kids can get some movement too. Additionally, these are green spaces, which is always a plus.

Get Up-Close With Camels

If you’re an animal lover, then this one’s for you. The Royal Camel Farm is home to many ships of the desert; tall, with humps like sand dunes and lash-swept eyes that entice, these magnificent creatures were once a means of transportation in Bahrain. But of course, that was a lifetime ago. Today, they are used mainly for meat and milk, which is said to have beneficial properties –antioxidants, calcium and a bunch of vitamins. It’s said that you can taste the milk at the farm. It’s worth mentioning that the camels at this farm aren’t raised for meat or racing. They are, as the name suggests, all owned by the Royal Family of the Kingdom of Bahrain. You’re allowed to feed the camels, and, if you’re lucky, you could get a chance to pet a baby! Tucked away in Janabiya, the farm is open from around 7am in the morning until sunset and entry is free.

Book A Private Photography Session

Bahrain is home to some really talented shutterbugs. You could book a private session with one of them for a solo or family photoshoot over a weekend. The island is also home to some picturesque locales such as the Bahrain Fort, with its mesmerising sunsets, and Karzakan Forest, with its canopy of foliage, to name a couple. They offer the perfect set up for a prized portfolio of memories. In addition to having the photos as

keepsakes, the actual shoot is also a lot of fun. That way, even if you were to leave Bahrain at some point, you would have a unique souvenir – a visual reminder of you with a slice of the island to savour. Some popular photographers that you could connect with on Instagram are @bloombysummer, @yulia. trubni.photostream and @parvathiramanandanphotography

has plenty of attractions. You can stop by the spice shops and try the traditional halwa – a gelatinous sweet that’s best eaten with gahwa or Arabic coffee. Bahrain’s famous pearling path, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, starts here. It comprises the houses of pearling merchants, is a testament to the Kingdom’s maritime legacy, and makes a great walking tour.

GO: Visit @hajiscafe on Instagram and pearlingpath.bh for more information.

Go Horse Riding Across The Island

Horse riding is a popular activity in Bahrain. There are many riding centres that not only conduct classes but also organise tours across the island. You could have your Hollywood moment riding into the sunset at the beach or against the backdrop of the majestic Bahrain Fort – book that photoshoot already! Kashta Tours will start horse riding class from this month for BD40 and it’s open to both children and adults. They organise tours as well, information and availability for which you can find on their website. Ghazwan Equestrian Centre also organises tours to Bahrain Fort, every day, from 8am to noon and 4pm to 8pm. It’s priced at BD6 for an hour during the week and BD8 for an hour over the weekend. If you’re a newbie and need a guide, you’ll have to pay an additional BD2. Ghazwan offers two packages: BD110, which includes 11 classes of an hour each. The price includes two extra classes plus tours so, that’s 13 in all. The other package is priced at BD60 for five classes, which includes one extra class and tour so, six in all.

GO: Visit kashtatours.com and @ghazwan.equestrian.centre on Instagram for more information.

Stroll The Souqs’ Bylanes

The souqs or traditional markets have so much to see and do. Steeped in Bahrain’s rich history and vibrant culture, they offer an immersive experience, with food, shopping and a front-row seat to locals going about their day. Head to Manama souq for a spot of Bahraini breakfast at Haji's Cafe, a traditional eatery that’s over 100 years old. There’s no menu card here, you eat what’s served for the day. While there’s an indoor area, we recommend you dine outdoors, sat on the blue-hued traditional benches, with blackand-white photos of old Bahrain adorning the walls. While you’re there, visit the Hindu temple, one of the oldest religious places in Bahrain. The structure that stands today has been renovated but the location and vibe remain the same. It’s close to what they call the gold souq – a lane dotted by gold shops. Muharraq souq also

Walk Strays At An Animal Shelter

The best way to get active is to have a pet. Don’t have one? Don’t worry, we got you! Or at least our furry friends over at the animal shelters do. Bahrain Animal Rescue Centre in Hamala, which used to be run by Tony Waters aka Tony the Dogfather, is always seeking volunteers who can walk the strays. Timings this month are 10am to 1pm on weekends. While it’s a great workout, it’s also an enriching experience to spend time with these beautiful beings who have nothing to offer but love and then some more. While you’re there, you could also make a pitstop at the cattery to admire the fluff balls sun bathing or pet them. The BSPCA shelter over at Askar is also a great option to explore.

GO: Follow @bahrainanimalrescuecentre and @bspca on Instagram for updates and more information.

Become One With Nature

Nature lovers aren’t born, they’re raised. Get your cubs – five years or older – to spend some time giving back to the environment, with Nature Connect on November 5 from 3pm to 5pm. Needless to say, you also get a chance to learn and have fun while accompanying your kids. Organised by nature-enthusiast Dr. Anamica Bhattacharya and supported by Exchange Plants for free (EPF), a growing group of plant lovers – you can look up the page on Facebook. It’s a Big Draw event; The Big Draw Festival is the world’s biggest celebration of drawing founded by The Big Draw charity, a pioneering visual literacy charity dedicated to raising the profile of drawing as a tool for wellbeing, thought, creativity, and social and cultural engagement. You can learn more on www.thebigdraw.org

Nature Connect, an informative experience, will involve exploring desert plants, identifying animals, birds and insects, trying out various art forms such as drawing, painting and other crafts, and gardening. Different types of seeds will be distributed so

your kids can grow them and, perhaps, make their own garden at home. Depending on the number of children and their ages, they will be categorised into sub groups to ensure a fulfilling experience. Nature supports our physical and mental well-being especially children's. Additionally, it improves concentration, facilitates growth, betters vision and helps in overall intellectual development. Educator and researcher Dr. Anamica has organised a series of environmental awareness programmes on the island for the last two years. This is her third Big Draw event. Through her initiatives, she wants to send out the message that sustainability is a habit we need to practice every day.

GO: Call Dr. Anamica on 3413 6058 or visit her on Instagram @ anamica_b for more information and to register.

Spin The Wheel At A’ali Pottery

Pottery is an ancient traditional art form in Bahrain dating back to the Dilmun era. If you pay a visit to the Bahrain National Museum, you’ll discover that some of the remains of pots found on the island date back to 2300 BC. A’ali village has a dedicated pottery workshop where you can see for yourself how these earthen treasures are fashioned. In fact, you could even try your hand at making one. It’s a great experience for the whole family and, after you get home, you could have a painting session together – a piece of Bahrain’s history to adorn your home. There’s a shop where you can buy a wide selection of readymade items too.

GO: Visit @pottery_alshugel on Instagram for more information.

Enjoy A Boat Ride At Bahrain Bay

Visit The Avenues Mall for a lazy brunch or early dinner. Then, head outside the mall to enjoy a relaxing ride aboard a water taxi. The view of Bahrain Bay, with luxurious buildings and the expanse of blue waters, is splendid to behold. The rides are organised between 10am to 1pm on weekdays and 10am to midnight on weekends. There’s usually a long line especially over the weekends so you may have to wait a little. The ride lasts 10 minutes and is priced at BD2 per head.

GO: Call 1715 1060 for more information.

Go Karting at BIKC

If you’re living in Bahrain, ‘the home of motorsport in the Middle East’, you simply have to experience karting at least once in your life. Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) is a premier track and the first, globally, to host a world championship-level race at night. While it has been graced by elite drivers, it’s also open to beginners who want to kick-start their racing careers, as well as those looking for a one-time adventure or some regular fun either with a team or by themselves. Adults can book a session for BD25 or BD32 – depending on the type of kart – and kids from seven to 12 years of age pay BD25. Sessions last half an hour with a break after 15 minutes. Located in Zallaq, BIKC is open throughout the week from 10am to 11.30pm and from 4pm to 11.30pm on Sundays and Monday’s. The track is booked for professionals from 4pm to 6pm, from Sunday to Thursday.

GO: Visit bahraingp.com for more information.

8 Hours Of Bahrain

Racing fans, mark your calendars for the BAPCO 8 Hours of Bahrain, which is returning for the season-ending round of the 2022 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). Head to Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, on November 11 and 12 for this event, which will mark the culmination of WEC’s 10th anniversary season. There will be supporting races happening in parallel such as the Porsche Sprint Challenge Middle East. Tickets for 8 Hours Of Bahrain are priced at BD5 for adults and BD2.5 for kids.

GO: Visit bahraingp.com for more information.

Shop Local At The Farmers’ Market

The Bahraini Farmers’ Market in Budaiya will be back with its 10th edition in December. It’s a great place to visit and support local farmers and vendors who sell homegrown fresh fruit and vegetables and flowers. Additionally, you can shop for spices and a range of other products. This is an educational experience too with stalls explaining how to grow certain plants – aspirant green fingers, alert! The Bahraini Farmers’ Market is an activity for the entire family and your kids will love it as much as you.

GO: Visit @farmersbh on Instagram for more information.

Wen Wbkm Festival

Wen Wbkm, one of the island’s distinctive festivals will host its third edition at Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir from November 23 to December 3, from 4pm to midnight. A shopping carnival, Wen Wbkm translates to where and how much. In addition to restaurants and cafes, it features a wide range of fashion-related brands that you can explore. Additionally, there’s entertainment for the entire family, including games for children and live performances by famous traditional bands.

GO: Visit bahraingp.com for more information.

Alice In Wonderland-Themed Game

If you like solving puzzles, then don’t miss this adventure. What’s better? It’s going to be conducted outdoors, on the streets of Manama, which will transform into a giant, escape-room-style space on December 10. The event will take place between 9am and 2pm. Clued Upp Games, an award-winning creator of immersive outdoor experiences in over 1,200 locations and more than 80 countries worldwide, is organising it. All you have to do is form a team with family or friends and register. Tickets are priced at about BD25 per team, which admits up to six adults plus children. Children under 16 years play for free. However, Clued Upp doesn’t recommend more than four children per team. The idea is that Alice is trapped in Wonderland and time is running out to save her. Teams must solve clues and take on challenges that they can access on their phones, through an exclusive app. If you want to level up the fun quotient, dress up in Alice In Wonderland-themed costumes. While this is completely optional, we say, go big or go home because there are prizes to be won for Best Fancy Dress, in addition to a host of others such as Fastest Team and Pawesome Pooch!

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

Muharraq Nights

Jointly organised by Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, The Pearling Path and Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research, the first edition of Muharraq Nights is here. It will feature design, fashion, food and music across Bahrain’s historic neighbourhoods. The event will take place over two weekends: from December 1 to 3 and 8 to 10. There will be a number of indoor and outdoor venues where the festival will happen in Muharraq, including the Shaikh Ebrahim Center, Archaeologies of Green Bahrain Pavilion, which is located close to Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa House, Bu Mahir fort and the public squares around these areas.

GO: Call 1729 8526 for more information.

IRONMAN 70.3 Bahrain

One of the biggest sporting events on the island, IRONMAN 70.3 Bahrain will take place on December 9. This is the fifth IRONMAN event in the Middle East and the official IRONMAN 70.3 Middle East Championship. The triathlon includes cycling, swimming and running. Athletes will manoeuvre some fast and unique courses, including a bike course that takes in part of the Bahrain International Circuit racetrack. It’s a seriously tough competition, so the participants are going to need all the support they can get. Be there to cheer them on! Or, if you’re one of the fit ones, maybe you can participate!

GO: Visit ironman.com for more information and to register.

Nasser

Bin Hamad Cycling Tour

Spurred on by the success of the first edition of Nasser Bin Hamad Cycling Tour for amateurs earlier this year, Faalyat has announced the second edition, from November 3 to 5. Held under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the tour will take place in Sakhir and Bilaj Al Jazayer, Zallaq. It’s spread across three days, with one sprint happening on each day. Women can participate in an exclusive race for ladies, which will take place on November 5. It’s a great opportunity for cycling enthusiasts. If that doesn’t convince you, then listen to this – there’s prize money to be won too! You can register as an individual or team; tickets start at BD10. Both GCC nationals and expats are welcome to participate. GO: Visit www.tathaker.co for more information and to register.

Bahrain National Day

Bahrain National Day is always one of the most anticipated, yearend events. The whole island lights up and there are specific areas where you can drive to and admire beautiful decorative lighting. A fun outing and experience for the whole family. Celebrate the spirit of this island that we call home, throughout the month. There are usually events and activities that take place across the Kingdom too and fireworks displays, details still to be announced.

GETTING TO KNOW… PORSCHE

Colin Sattar, GM Porsche Centre Bahrain (PCB), talks favourites and achievements.

You have been with Porsche Centre Bahrain for more than seven years now and are a Porsche Approved General Manager. What exactly does this approval mean and how did you attain it?

The Management Assessment Centre (MAC) is designed to evaluate and assess a suitable candidate for any key managerial position across all the Porsche Centres. They also provide each individual with a personal development plan. That in itself is a great accomplishment for which I am grateful.

What would you say have been your greatest challenges in this position?

Apart from adjusting and getting used to the culture which Bahrain allows you to be a part of, it is a wonderful place for expat work and life. My experiences gained from the number of PLC companies I worked for back in the UK enabled me to bring some of their best practices to Porsche Centre Bahrain (PCB).

And also, the achievements you are most proud of? I’ve always maintained and ensured that PCB achieves the highest level of customer satisfaction. Most of our customers know that they can always drop in for a coffee and feel like a part of the Porsche family. In addition, seeing your team develop, grow and, in some instances, go on to different careers with other manufacturers within the GCC is a great accomplishment.

When people think of sports cars, Porsche is probably one of the first names that springs to mind. What do you think makes the brand so special yet, at the same time, so accessible?

The heritage, the design, the highest quality and the outstanding performance across all the model range. A Porsche is almost certainly going to be a great financial investment.

A hard question in your position, but if you had to choose your favourite Porsche to own and drive, which would it be and why? Without a doubt, it is the 911 Turbo; it’s my dream sports car and everything about it is truly amazing.

What’s your favourite place to drive in Bahrain?

Driving down to Zallaq and the surrounding area – such a great drive in an open top 911.

You have almost 35 years of experience in the automotive industry, much of it in the premium sector. If you hadn’t chosen this career, is there anything else you would have liked to pursue?

I’m an avid sports fan – I wish I had paid more attention at school instead of looking out of the window at the sports playing field! If I hadn’t had such a bad knee injury from playing football when I was 15, I would have hopefully been a professional footballer or cricketer. ✤

INTRODUCING THE GENESIS G90

Genesis reveal their intentions to challenge the top brands in the exclusive sedan segment with the G90.

As the luxury vehicle division of South Korean vehicle manufacturer, Hyundai Motor Group, Genesis is fast becoming world-renowned for its premium offerings, having produced a range of deluxe models over the last two decades.

This month, FACT got the chance to thoroughly inspect and to test drive Genesis’ flagship luxury sedan the G90, compliments of the team at Genesis Bahrain, First Motors. Being our first Genesis experience, we were excited to discover what this prestigious label has to offer.

Exterior

Our first impression of the Genesis G90 was that it exudes an effortless sense of luxury and refinement, one that is said to offer the most elegant interpretation of the brand’s design identity. At the front end sits the newly designed Crest Grille, flanked by sleek, ultra-thin, Two-Line headlamps – the combination of which has been expertly crafted to resemble the brand’s winged emblem. The grille features a layered architecture design comprising of two G-Matrix patterns sitting on top of one another creating a three-dimensional effect.

The striking, Guilloché patterned emblem itself has a premium feel to it and sits like a jewel at the front and centre of the car’s clamshell bonnet. The bonnet design features a single panel that integrates it with the fenders – eliminating the panel gaps –creating a smooth and seamless effect.

The side view of the G90 reveals the Parabolic Line design that flows seamlessly from the bonnet, along the bottom of the windows to the boot. Adding to the exterior’s capacious and polished nature are Athletic Power Lines on the fenders around the wheels, that hint at the car’s on-road intentions.

The back end Two-Line combination lamps are elongated with the boot and help to give a strong and well-balanced image. The silver Genesis lettering emblem sits between the lamps and the boot, further accentuating the premium nature of this handsome sedan. Additionally, many of the vehicle’s functional elements, such as the licence plate, reverse lights and various sensors, have been lowered to ensure the clean look is complete.

Interior

Shifting our attention to the interior, we were welcomed by a beautifully constructed environment complete with uber-comfy seating. The well-balanced nature of the interior design is sure to satisfy both those who wish to drive the G90, as well as those who desire to be driven by chauffeurs. We found every element of the 2023 model to radiate pure opulence and superior design quality, with premium materials being used throughout the vehicle. The two panoramic sunroofs can be controlled separately and illuminate the cabin with warm, natural light. Mood lamps installed on both the left and right of the sunroofs are amongst others located in the vehicle and add further to the sense of luxury.

Top-of-the-line glass and aluminium materials have been used to create the unique centre console, where the electric dial-type Shift-By-Wire renders the G-Matrix patterns into real glass. This console features the brand’s Fingerprint Authentication System

that enables users to setup and select their customised user profile, amongst other settings. Additionally, the centre fascia, door trimmings and backs of the front seats feature Newspaper Crown and Stripe Wood garnishes. The elegant quilting designs of the rear seats, along with the forged carbon metal G-MATRIX patterns on the door trims made us feel like we were in a first-class, private aeroplane. Both the left and right seats in the back can be reclined separately, ensuring optimum comfort for each individual.

Further noteworthy internal features of the G90 include a Mood Curator, an Armrest Touch System, an on-board fragrance diffuser, an antimicrobial sanitation system, power-operated rear sunshades, active noise cancellation and almost unbelievably good massage functions.

Infotainment & Connectivity

A 12.3-inch infotainment display provides access to Genesis’ latest infotainment system, and features sat nav and SiriusXM satellite radio. A second 12.3-inch screen has been included to serve as a digital gauge display. Both displays feature crystal clear graphics and text and are user-friendly and super responsive.

The G90’s infotainment system includes full smartphone connectivity with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Wireless phone charging and a head-up display are also fitted as standard.

Two 10.2-inch electric rear-seat touch screen monitors with automatic angle adjustment are located on the back of the front seats and allow passengers to use media independently by connecting Bluetooth headsets to either the left or the right monitor. Also included in the G90 is an eight-inch touch screen located in the centre armrest in the back row of seating. This allows passengers to adjust rear comfort settings with ease.

Genesis have also included a fantastic 3D-surround sound function that recreates audio characteristics of superior sound venues like ‘Boston Symphony Hall’ and delivers it through a Bang & Olufsen 23-speaker system. The result is an audio experience second to none.

Power & Performance

The Genesis G90 now houses a twin-turbocharged, V6 engine coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive. The standard engine of our test drive model produces 374hp. We found this setup to be very responsive, with plenty of acceleration and power on offer.

The multi-chamber air suspension and braking systems helped us to maintain traction, to absorb the bumps, as well as to always keep full control of the powerful sedan. In fact, we found the 2023 G90 to be one of our most relaxing, comfortable and responsive driving experiences to date.

We must mention the Preview-Electronic Control Suspension (Preview-ECS). This system optimises control of the suspension using a camera at the front of the car along with data from the navigation system, to identify road conditions and to provide a smooth riding experience in any driving environment. A bump in the road will be detected 100 metres in advance, prompting the car to raise the front wheels by 10mm as well as to optimise the Preview-ECS system. This will reduce the shock of the contact and lessen the jolt on the passengers.

Safety & Assistance

Not surprisingly, the new G90 comes fully equipped with advanced driver assistance and safety technologies, including Hands on Detection (HOD) that accurately detects when the driver is holding the steering wheel and issues a warning when necessary – a first for any Genesis model.

Additional standard technologies include automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, with lane-centring, forward collision warning with automated emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, Highway Driving Assist and more.

Our Verdict

In truth, a day was far too little time for us to fully appreciate the vast array of high-end features that Genesis have included in their new G90. What we can say with absolute surety, however, is that the 2023 G90 is amongst the very finest of motor vehicles we have ever had the pleasure of experiencing in all our years of test driving. ✤

“The well-balanced nature of the interior design is sure to satisfy both those who wish to drive the G90, as well as those who desire to be driven by chauffeurs.”

THE EPITOME OF ELECTRIC EXCLUSIVITY

In 1900, Rolls-Royce co-founder, Charles Rolls, prophesised an electric future for the motor car. This prophecy could not have been fulfilled without a more recent promise, when Rolls-Royce CEO, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, made a public commitment to bring a fully electric Rolls-Royce to market within the current decade.

In September 2021, the marque confirmed that it had commenced testing of Spectre, the first Rolls-Royce to be conceived and engineered from the very beginning as an electric car.

On its completion in 2023, Spectre will represent a prophecy fulfilled, a promise kept, and an undertaking completed. Spectre is not only a historic moment for Rolls-Royce, but also a historic moment for electrification. To that end, Rolls-Royce has additionally confirmed that by the end of 2030 its entire product portfolio will be fully electric.

Rolls-Royce’s commitment to an all-electric powertrain will only enhance the Rolls-Royce experience – instant torque, silent running and the sense of one imperceptible gear.

With Spectre, Rolls-Royce has harnessed a revolutionary ‘Decentralised Intelligence’ system, allowing for the free and direct exchange of information between more than 1,000 vehicle functions. Its designers have captured a contemporary, yet timeless, aesthetic that significantly progresses the brand’s iconography as it embarks on its electric age. In unveiling Spectre, Rolls-Royce sets a new precedent in the creation of an entirely original class of motor cars, the Ultra-Luxury Electric Super Coupé.

From the front, Spectre’s split headlight treatment is intersected by the widest grille ever bestowed on a RollsRoyce. The relaxed angle and polished stainless-steel finish of

the grille enhances Spectre’s presence and unprecedented drag coefficient, which at just 0.25cd makes Spectre Rolls-Royce’s most aerodynamic motor car, ever.

In profile, the sharp, vertical bow line at the front of Spectre draws the eye rearward to its monolithic flanks. The lower line – known as the ‘waft line’ – borrows directly from yacht design. This ‘waft line’ is the visual representation of the Rolls-Royce ‘magic carpet ride’ and its upwards sweep toward the front is inspired by the gently lifting bow of an accelerating power boat.

Spectre is the first production two-door coupé to be equipped with 23-inch wheels in almost 100 years. Additionally, for the first time on a series production Rolls-Royce, Spectre is available with Starlight Doors, which incorporate 4,796 softly illuminated ‘stars’. The ethereal night-time theme continues with Spectre’s Illuminated Fascia, incorporating the Spectre nameplate surrounded by a cluster of over 5,500 stars.

Spectre is equipped with a completely redesigned digital architecture of luxury named SPIRIT, which manages the car’s functions and coordinates with the Whispers application, allowing clients to interact with their car remotely and receive live information.

Preliminary data shows that Spectre is expected to have an allelectric range of 320 miles/520 kilometres WLTP and offer 900Nm of torque from its 430kW powertrain. It is anticipated to achieve 0 - 60mph in 4.4 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds). ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.ROLLS-ROYCEMOTORCARS.COM

Rolls-Royce is set to release its first fully electric motor car.

DEFINITION OF SUPERIORITY

EBRAHIM KHALIL KANOO HAS LAUNCHED THE ALL-NEW TOYOTA YARIS 2023

The 2023 Toyota Yaris’s front design features a low-profile bumper, along with a new glossy black front grille and ultraslim LED headlamps. The vehicle's side design and sleek fastback silhouette heighten its modern aesthetic, while the distinctive diffuser shape at the rear expresses exceptional strength.

The spacious cabin’s thin and wide instrument panel and soft padding exude elegance and comfort. The interior features multiple compartments including cup holders, small and large drink bottle spaces and other storage areas. The spacious 475-litre capacity trunk comes complete with a folding board that serves as a partition to enable more efficient luggage distribution.

The vehicle’s cabin hosts an eight-inch multimedia screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto together with a USB port on the head unit and two ports at the rear console.

The four-cylinder, 1.5-litre engine delivers smooth acceleration and a quick response, producing 103hp and 138Nm of torque with fuel consumption of 20.5 km/l. The engine comes paired with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to deliver smooth acceleration and quiet, efficient transmission at higher speeds with excellent fuel efficiency.

The vehicle’s safety system is complemented by Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Departure Prevention, Automatic High Beam and Front Departure Alert, as well as SRS airbags, Vehicle Stability Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Brake Assist, Electric Parking Brake with Brake hold function, Traction Control and Hill-start Assist Control. The vehicle’s interiors come in metal stream metallic, scarlet sequin, grey metallic, black and beige. Customers can also choose between 15-inch steel or 16-inch alloy wheels. ✤

GO: CALL 1773 0730, VISIT TOYOTA.COM.BH OR THE SHOWROOM IN SITRA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

The EV market in the Middle East stood at a value of USD40.25 million in 2021 and is expected to reach USD93.10 million by 2027. Automobile companies like Kia are taking steps to play their part in helping us move more sustainably.

The SUV concept model designed by Kia ecologically balances interior and exterior manufacturing materials. The flooring is made from recycled fishnets and the seat fabric, from a mix of wool and recycled plastic bottles. Further, the cabin features vegan leather throughout.

The Concept EV9 leans on next-generation, ultra-fast charging technology for peak performance. With its 350-kW charger, the battery electric powertrain is capable of replenishing energy from 10% to 80% in around 20 to 30 minutes, and thus, can run for about up to 500 kilometers.

Car makers today are researching the potential of solar power through curved solar roof systems. Kia’s all-electric concept model already includes this form of energy across its grille. It recuperates electric energy on the road, providing an alternate source of energy when not close to a charging station, thus reducing consumption overall.

With increased social awareness surrounding sustainable living, growing public expectations on the automobile sector and ambitious government targets, car manufacturers are ramping up their green efforts. Kia’s advanced Concept EV9 provides a glimpse into the future; how today’s revolutionary sustainabilityfocused technology and features could become the norm. ✤

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

HUAWEI BRING THE MAGIC WITH THE NEW MATE XS 2

This month, FACT magazine set its sights on the brand-new HUAWEI Mate Xs 2, the latest generation smartphone in the HUAWEI Mate Series.

HUAWEI’s brand-new flagship foldable smartphone, the HUAWEI Mate Xs 2, has hit the market and is making serious waves with its novel design and high-performance capabilities.

Exterior Design

The HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 is a beautifully designed, compact, foldable smartphone that is ultra-flat, ultra-thin and ultralight. It’s constructed from durable materials including glass fibres for the backplane – a material commonly used in the aerospace industry – along with aerospace-grade titanium alloys used in the screen structure. The phone’s Composite Screen comprises of four layers and shares a similar design to the anti-collision system found in modern cars. These layers act as a shock barrier that improve the phone’s resistance to drops and impacts, enhancing its overall durability. Furthermore, it feels great in hand, and fits easily into a pocket or purse.

The HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 showcases the industry’s first Doublerotating Falcon Wing Hinge design – a feature we found to be most impressive. This means the phone has an ultra-flat, foldable screen with no folding line running through the middle of it. In fact, when opened, the screen becomes as flat, smooth and consistent as a mirror. The hinge itself is made of ultra-light, high-

strength steel that has a substantial load-bearing capacity – again ensuring the phone is both lighter and more durable.

Hardware and Performance

When unfolded, the HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 has a 7.8-inch, TrueChrome Foldable Display with an 8:7.1 ratio. When folded, the screen measures 6.5-inches with a 19:9 display ratio. Additionally, the HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 boasts a resolution of 2480x2200 and a pixel density of 424ppi. This means that the new model has one of the highest resolutions and pixel densities available for a foldable phone. We found the Ultra HD True-Chroma Foldable Display to provide an excellent visual experience with its clear text and refined images. The HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 supports a refresh rate of up to 120Hz along with a touch sampling rate of 240Hz, providing the smartphone with a far faster screen response and an overall smoother display. We were able to effortlessly stream movies without any stalling or decrease in the resolution. Thanks to the fact it’s also an HDR screen that reproduces 1.07 billion colours, the quality of the movies was no less than outstanding. Furthermore, the 1440Hz high-frequency PWM dimming reduces screen flickering and helps to decrease eye strain, especially in underlit areas.

Functionality

A fantastic feature of the new HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 is its splitscreen function that enables both interaction and collaboration between different applications. It also allows for the use of two applications in parallel. This means we were, for example, able to construct emails whilst reading product reviews. We could chat on a videocall and read social media comments at the same time. Additionally, we could shop online and take notes simultaneously. This allows for a new level of time management and multitasking.

Swipe Gesture meant we were able to easily access and control the floating windows. We discovered that a diagonal swipe to the top left corner produced a split-screen; a diagonal swipe to the top right corner generated a new window pop-up; a sideways swipe minimised the window; an upward swipe brought back the full-screen display, and a downward swipe immediately closed the window. This practical approach allows for silkysmooth and efficient operations that save both time and energy.

Camera

Yet another outstanding quality of the HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 is the True-Chrome Camera System. This setup consists of a 50MP True-Chroma Camera, a 13MP Ultra-Wide-Angle Camera, and an 8MP Telephoto Camera. Featuring improved HUAWEI XD Optics, with brand-new information recovery technology, photo clarity has been improved by 10%.

The HUAWEI XD Fusion Pro True-Chroma Image Engine, coupled with the 10-Channel Multi-Spectrum Sensor and colour calibration with more than 2,000 colours, meant we

were able to capture accurate and truly vibrant images. The Mirror Shooting feature allows for both the shooter and the subject to preview the shot in real-time through the digital viewfinder of the camera, on both screens, at the same time. Furthermore, the HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 houses the new generation of AI Remove. When editing our photos, we could simply select various objects in a photo, select the 'Remove' function with one click, and voila! The AI image processing technology can also automatically identify the background of a photo and merge the colours and outlines to simplify the editing process.

Battery

The excellent standby battery life of the HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 is due to its high capacity 4600mAh battery. Additionally, this battery supports 66W HUAWEI SuperCharge, which means we were able to charge the smartphone from flat to 90% in just half an hour. This is thanks to an innovative parallel charging technique that increases the charging speed by 15%, allowing users to charge the device both quickly and safely.

Our Verdict

The HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 has surpassed previous generations in all areas of appearance and performance and now offers a truly unique, smooth, responsive and rewarding user experience. In fact, The HUAWEI Mate Xs 2 is our pick for best smartphone currently on the market. ✤

GO: VISIT HTTPS://CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM/BH/

LEVELLING IT UP

FACT got its hands on vivo’s new high-performance, colour changing V25 Pro, a

vivo have just unveiled their latest smartphone offering, the vivo V25 Pro, which we wasted no time in trying out – anxious to see what it has to offer and if it’s worth your consideration. We all know it’s what’s on the inside that counts and the vivo V25 Pro provides a solid performance along with high-power efficiency that supports the daily needs of the smartphone’s users. Alright, it’s time to get technical now….

The new V25 Pro is equipped with an octa-core CPU, MediaTek Dimensity 1300 with 12GB RAM and 8GB extended RAM that power its 5G capabilities.

This setup also delivers greater AI imaging capacity that allows for the capture of outstanding 4K videos along with a smooth gaming experience. We found both movie watching and game playing to be polished and uninterrupted with no lagging or reduction in resolution at any time. This performance is vastly improved thanks to the new Bionic Cooling System. Design wise the new model is certainly pretty to look at. The slim body is just 8.62mm thick and features an elegant 3D Curved Screen with a punch hole at the top of the front camera. The lightweight and slim body ensures this device fits comfortably in the hand, purse or pocket. Our favourite feature of the exterior design, however, is the

revolutionary Colour Changing Fluorite AG Glass that enables the rear panel to display various vivid hues, at different angles, when exposed to UV light. The V25 Pro comes in a beautiful Surfing Blue and an enchanting Starlight Black. The Surfing Blue edition, for example, changes from light sky blue to a deep ocean blue, depending on the angle it’s held at in the sunlight. Aside from the impressive exterior design and superior performance, vivo have spent a lot of time and money on the development of a truly outstanding camera configuration.

The Pro delivers an excellent imaging experience with its 64MP OIS ultra-sensing rear camera that features upgraded OIS and EIS capabilities, along with an 8MP wide-angle camera. This setup allowed us to effortlessly capture high-quality selfies and superwide landscape shots without having to change a single setting. Selfies have honestly never looked so good to us, thanks to the V25 Pro’s auto-focus capabilities and impressive AI algorithms. The 50MP and 32MP HD front cameras contain autofocus and eye focus capabilities, respectively. This enables users to capture crystal clear images at any time of the day or night. The front camera is also equipped with AI HD Algorithm that optimises sharpness. Additionally, the Pro’s AI Skin Retouching Algorithm provides an airbrushed look when required.

smartphone with enhanced photography features that encourages artistic expression.

When using the camera at night, the upgraded Super Night Mode feature accurately restored all colours and brightness levels of any highly saturated images we took. This feature is coupled with the new Real-Time Extreme Night Vision feature that allows users to manually adjust the exposure intensity when previewing an image. This further improves the brightness and detailing of the photos in real-time, even in low-light environments. The result was some of the clearest and most striking night-time photographs we have ever taken using a smartphone camera.

As well as great still images, we found filming videos with the V25 Pro to be an equally rewarding and fun-filled experience. The SuperNight feature is brilliant at brightening videos shot in darker settings, as well as at noise reduction. This allowed us to capture bright and clear videos at night, as well as to tamper off intrusive noises emanating from the surrounding environment. Further contributing toward the vivo V25 Pro’s capturing of outstanding videos, is the Natural Portrait video mode that enhances overall skin texture and clarity. Complementing this smartphone’s capabilities is the Hybrid Image Stabilization (OIS+EIS) feature that ensures videos are clear and more stable. To help in capturing the very best videos possible, vivo have included a new Vlog Movie feature designed to improve the filming experience. It comes with video tutorials and templates to guide the user on how best to shoot in various scenarios, such as at night, in the city, indoors, outdoors, etc.

Another noteworthy video assistant is the upgraded Multi-Style Portrait feature in the front camera. This provides an array of fun filters that add to and enhance the video capturing experience. Ensuring virtually continual operation, the vivo V25 Pro

houses a 4830mAh large battery along with a 66W FlashCharge capability. This means the large-capacity, high-density battery cell of this smartphone can be charged from flat to 71% in as little as half an hour.

Our Verdict

We found the vivo V25 Pro to be an aesthetically pleasing, innovative, technologically advanced smartphone – one that is packed with practical and functional features and is a lot of fun to use. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.VIVO.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

Super Night Algorithms

64MP OIS Ultra-Sensing Camera

50MP Eye AF Selfie+HD Portrait

Extreme Night Vision

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

Duolingo Evernote

Evernote is for anyone and everyone with a busy work schedule. The app gives you everything you need to keep your time organised and your priorities in check, with great note taking, project planning, and easy ways to find what you need when you need it due to powerful search capabilities. With Evernote, you can work anywhere as all your notes, tasks and schedules sync across all your devices. You can make your notes more useful by adding text, images, audio, scans, PDFs and documents. Gather your notes, tasks and schedules in one place to tick things off and turn to-do lists into things done. You can also add tasks within your notes and assign due dates, flags and reminders so you can be sure you won’t miss anything. The app is also useful when assigning tasks to others as you can track their progress and make sure your project is running smoothly. Additionally, the app allows you to scan important documents to keep them handy on all devices, as well as save web pages (without ads) and mark them with arrows, highlights and text.

Most of us have heard of Duolingo before, but the app has expanded so much in recent years with many new features. It offers fun and easy ways to learn an array of languages, the list of which has expanded to include Swahili, Zulu, Welsh, Esperanto, Hebrew, Haitian Creole and High Valerian – yes, the language developed by David J. Peterson for the HBO series, Game of Thrones. As you progress in the language of your choice, you earn points and unlock new levels while gaining real-world communication skills. Additionally, the app personlises your learning experience by tailoring the lessons to your pace and progress, so you don’t have to worry about reaching a level that might be too hard or wasting time with a level that might be too easy! The app’s friendly mascot, Duo the owl, sets reminders for you every so often to help keep you on track. Even if you do five minutes a day, you can learn so much.

You can also opt to go for Super Duolingo, which is ad-free.

BACKSTAGE HEROES

We caught up with Abdullah Alsisi, Country Manager Bidfood Middle East, Bahrain, to learn how the company puts the great food we love on restaurant tables across the Kingdom.

Since Bidfood in Bahrain is mostly a behind-the-scenes operator, please tell us what the company does and how our readers may have encountered or been affected by your services.

Bidfood Bahrain has one mission in mind – helping foodservice operators provide an amazing dining experience to the end consumers. Bidfood works around the clock to ensure distributing the best food and beverage brands to those customers. Bidfood is proud to say that it has helped and continues to help hundreds of restaurants, hotels, cafés and other operators provide the consumers in Bahrain with great food and beverage products. We might be working behind the scenes, but we are one of the main reasons why consumers in Bahrain are exposed to great dining experiences.

Bidfood supplies a huge range of products across the hospitality sector, how do you ensure the quality of your products?

Bidfood is a global leader in foodservice distribution, operating in more than 35 countries. This leadership is backed up by great experience in selecting the best food and beverage (F&B) from all over the world. Our team is specialised in helping operators provide an amazing dining experience using top quality products from the country of origin – and that experience comes from our expertise within the F&B world, whether in kitchens or on restaurant floors. We proudly say that we have managed to put together a portfolio of brands and products that are of the highest quality and bring the best value-for-money for our customers. For example, our beef programme selection includes a detailed study of the animal breed, the marbling, the handling and, most importantly, the performance on the grill.

For example, is your Angus Beef traceable?

All our products, especially our Angus Beef, are traceable across all the value chains. From the time that the cattle are born till the day of slaughter, the cattle are traced. After slaughter, the traceability continues to the ageing, packaging, shipping and storage. All the shipping value chain is temperature tracked and tested to ensure that the products are 100% in line with the standards of our customers.

You are partnered with some of the biggest names in the Bahrain food and beverage industry, such as Four Seasons, how do your relationships work – it must be an operation of huge scale?

Our relationships with all our stakeholders, including our customers and suppliers, are the key to our success. We ensure that even though our operation is of huge scale, we continue to be as personal as we can on all levels. We work very closely with highly-qualified chefs, restaurant managers and operators, who expect nothing less than perfect service levels and we are always making sure we are a key to their success. This relationship is centred around innovation, honesty and is a win-win.

Are your storage facilities here in Bahrain?

Yes, our storage facilities are all in Bahrain. We also have storage facilities in the neighbouring GCC markets which Bidfood ME operates in. This always helps us mitigate any supply-chain issues we may face. For example, during Covid-19, many suppliers of ours were unable to ship product and, due to our regional presence, we were able to support Bidfood Bahrain from those neighboring businesses, especially from Saudi Arabia.

Having started as HORECA in the UAE with just nine people back in 2003, how many people does the rebranded Bidfood now employ across the region and in Bahrain specifically?

Bidfood ME employs over 450 brilliant people, from over 30 nationalities around the world. Bidfood Bahrain has more than 25 employees based in Bahrain and 18 employees supporting the business based between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Do you have a lot of Bahraini employees – how is the process of Bahrainisation within Bidfood?

More than 30% of our employees are Bahraini and we are continuing to ensure that we hire more Bahraini nationals in the future. Our aim is to have more than 50% being Bahrainis by the end of 2023.

In other markets across the region, Bidfood has successfully taken on a business-to-consumer role. Is this something that is planned for Bahrain?

Bidfood Home – which is our business-to-consumer application is a proven success model in the UAE and some other markets around the world, and the success is due to the fact that we were able to provide restaurant-quality products to consumers, at an extremely affordable price. While this model is not the core of our business, we have yet to consider if we will expand this model to other markets in the region.

Your website mentions sustainability goals and CSR, can you tell us about this side of the company in Bahrain?

Bidfood focuses significantly on sustainability and CSR. In fact, Bidfood ME was created in order to reduce the number of orders and deliveries made between foodservice operators and retail distributors, by acting as a one-stop-shop for multiple high-quality brands.

We also work on supporting local charities and work closely with food banks.

Another initiative Bidfood ME and specifically Bahrain has endorsed is the introduction of Impossible Meat – which is a plant-based meat alternative aimed at reducing carbon footprint globally. In addition, we are introducing Tres Marias Plant Based Milks, which are a great alternative to dairy products, another initiative to help reduce carbon footprints from animals.

Anything else you would like to add?

Bidfood is proud to be the first foodservice company to introduce the first fully integrated e-commerce platform in Bahrain and the region. Launched in 2022, myBidfood allows customers to place, amend and track orders anytime, anywhere. myBidfood also allows operators to view recipes, calculate food costs, track calories per meal, see real-time product availability and even collect loyalty points when buying. myBidfood is available on the web and as an app and can be downloaded from IOS and Android App Stores. We are very proud to say that since launch, customers in Bahrain have fully endorsed myBidfood and that, so far, over 35% of our business has fully moved to myBidfood. ✤

In Conversation with… Charbel Hanna

The new General Manager at Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Congratulations on your new appointment. You will be a familiar face to our readers from your roles at several of the island’s top-class hotels. What particular strengths from your long experience do you hope to bring to your new role at the Crowne Plaza?

I knew from an early age that the hotel business was where I wanted to be and I followed this dream relentlessly. Since then I have been passionately engaged in the hospitality industry for the last 21 years in which the majority of these years were spent in Bahrain working with reputable brands at operational level which provided me the opportunity to better understand the market needs and gain more experience in management and operations which will be a great asset in improving service quality and guest experience. In a nutshell, hospitality is my passion that I turned into my business and I am looking forward to contributing to the business for many more years to come!

Being part of one of the earliest and most reputable business hotels in the Kingdom, with its rich heritage and history, adds to the excitement. Placed right in the heart of Bahrain's Diplomatic Area and the business district, it has easy access to Bahrain Financial Harbour, major shopping areas, the souq and popular tourist attractions. Our reputation is delivering the guests' expectations is what our heritage is built on.

Although we have renovated a part of the property, we always aim to keep the historical touch of the hotel and focus more on repositioning the hotel as one of the prime destinations in the island.

I believe that the Crowne Plaza has decades of memories that

The Crowne Plaza is one of Bahrain’s heritage properties with a great deal of history. How do you aim to preserve that heritage while putting your own stamp on the property?

What, for you, are the attributes that make the Crowne Plaza stand out among the Kingdom’s hospitality offering?

make our guests want to come back and visit us again. Being able to recognise familiar faces gives our guests a sense of reassurance that they will receive the best and highest level of hospitality. In addition, we strive to always reinvent ourselves to keep up with the current trends and opportunities.

Do you have any immediate plans for new initiatives or developments that you can share with us?

We are currently in the middle of relaunching Waves, one of the most famous seafood restaurants on the island. The restaurant will open with an upgraded concept but will still be a seafood restaurant like the old good days, so stay tuned.

In addition our beautiful terrace overlooking the pool has had a complete revamp with new furniture and accessories, with the bar area all set to receive guests in a pleasant outdoor environment. With the heat finally leaving the island, it is the ideal place to relax and enjoy an evening out, especially with the World Cup coming soon, it will definitely be the ideal place to be.

Moreover, we will commence the festive season with our Christmas tree lighting on December 4, at which visitors can sing along to carols from a choir of elves who will amuse the kids with their antics and hand out special treats. A special Christmas brunch will be taking place at La Mosaique and Harvesters. Last but not the least, we are very proud to traditionally host the biggest New Year’s Eve Gala event on the island and we are back again with another spectacular theme this year – One Thousand

and One Nights, which promises a memorable evening with great excitement in store for our guests, including a DJ and entertainment, an exquisite gala dinner and much more... I’m sure it will be a night not to be missed!

There are absolutely many more exiting projects in store for the very near future to further position the Crowne Plaza as the preferred hotel for business and leisure in Bahrain but, although I would love to talk about this, it is probably a bit too early at this stage. I’d say watch this space.

What would be the three things you would tell visitors to the island they simply must see or do?

That’s a tricky question because I have many favourites! But if I have to choose, I would list four.

A good place to start with is the Bahrain National Museum where you can learn about Bahrain’s rich history throughout the millennia and which is only five minutes away from the hotel.

Second, Muharraq Souq, you'll feel the lively atmosphere of this bazaar and discover treasures to purchase such as quality fabrics and Bahraini pearls.

Third would be Bahrain Fort, which is an archaeological site composed of an artificial mound created by human habitation and, due to its archaeological importance, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

And, of course, the last thing would be none other than the Crowne Plaza, which will make everyone’s stay memorable. ✤

A PASSION FOR INGREDIENTS

Chef Ravneet Singh Manchanda, Executive Chef, Hilton Bahrain, on early inspiration and the importance of good training.

When and how did you first know you wanted to be a chef? It all started in my mum’s kitchen, who herself is an excellent cook. And growing up in the family, we always had lots of guest at our place. I used to help my mum bake cakes, make pasta from scratch – after high school, I enrolled in a culinary university where the passion for cooking became stronger. From then, there was no turning back.

Throughout your senior career, you have put a strong emphasis on training and staff motivation. Is this something you have carried with you into your position with the new Hilton and why is it so important?

I strongly believe in training and growing the team; being a chef, it becomes all the more important as recipes need to be followed to keep the consistency. At Hilton, all our team members go through vigorous training on menus and dishes where each one is taught from the basics. In the kitchen there are no shortcuts, to master your technique there is only one way, to do it again and again and that is what training is all about.

What have been the main challenges you have faced in the pre-opening period and how have you addressed these?

Pre-openings of hotels are a very interesting time for any chef during their career, the advantage is that you are given an empty canvas and you get to design the whole painting. At the Hilton Bahrain, this phase started during Covid times, so getting the right talents was the biggest challenge as everything used to take a lot of time but we had time on our side, so we could overcome this. Looking back, there were so many rush times where deadlines had to be met and things had to be delivered, but it all went well.

With several outlets to oversee, it may be a difficult question but what is your favourite type of cuisine and your own signature dish?

As a chef, I have been trained in multicuisine environments but, if I had to pick one, that would be more the style of European cuisine. My Signature dishes that we have on our menu are first, a vegan dish from our Lamar Café – Roasted Beetroot Salad with candied hazelnut, pickled dates and cashew nut cream. The second one is from Origin Kitchen and Culture – Harissa Grilled Seabass which has pepper tomato coulis, za’atar potato and tahini sauce. ✤

A TASTE OF PERUVIAN SUNSHINE

Liz O’Reilly took her taste buds on an Andean adventure without leaving Bahrain.

When the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay invites you to try a new pop-up, it’s an opportunity not to be missed, especially when you learn it’s al fresco dining, in the gorgeous surroundings of the Azure Pool and the menu is from Peruvian Chef Yovani Guevara, who’s seriously excited about showcasing her country’s cuisine to Bahrain’s ever-eager and knowledgeable foodie community. Inti, named after the Peruvian word for the sun, enjoys a pictureperfect setting. The sparkling waters of the pool glittering in the light of a giant fire bowl and the limited number of tables giving a true sense of exclusivity.

I headed there with my dining companion early on a weekday evening and enjoyed an effusive welcome from both servers and Chef Yovani, who was keen to tell us this is her first opening. She had prepared a tasting menu for us and we were eager to dive in. We began, much to my delight, with the Ceviche Platter which not only looked amazing but also offered the chance to try a selection of the ceviches all in one go.

Before I talk about the food, tiger’s milk is mentioned several times and I must point out, for the uninitiated, that it is, of course, not real tiger’s milk. Absolutely no tigers are harmed in its production! Rather, it’s a combination of lime juice, sliced onions, salt, pepper and chillis – the heat from which ‘cooks’ the raw fish that it usually accompanies.

The Tradicional ceviche featured sea bass, tiger’s milk, lemon, roasted corn nuts, coriander and sweet potato. I loved the combination of salt and heat which is so very moreish. A Chef Yovani signature, El Apasionada is something a little

bit different. Shrimp is mixed with passion fruit, tiger’s milk, aji charapita (a rare chilli), plantain chips, sweet potato puree, wild mushrooms, aji amarillo (a different type of chilli) and corn. The addition of passion fruit really makes this dish stand out, the sweetness refining the chillis’ heat and taking the taste sensation to a new level.

The Ceviche Al Carbon was a new experience for me since it is, as the name suggests, served warm, the fish accompanied by smoked yellow chilli sauce and sweet potato shavings. The sauce was almost comforting in both its consistency and very mild heat, perfectly offset by the sweet potato.

The menu explains that Tiradito is ‘the spirit of Japanese sashimi Peruvian style, flavoured with tiger’s milk’. We tried the version with thinly sliced salmon, aji amarillo sauce, chalaquita cancha (corn with onions and vegetables) and torched sweet potato. I was surprised and delighted to find the giant corn kernels, so beloved of South American cuisine, and these were imparted a very slightly smoky flavour through the cooking. If a sashimi-type dish could ever be described as comfort food, then this would be it.

Another exceptional dish was Causas, a traditional Peruvian favourite with potato and aji peppers. Chef Yovani explained that they remove the spiciness from the chillis by blanching them three times and changing the water, this leaves the flavour without such an intense heat. Served with salmon tartare, yellow potato, black olive sauce, spicy mayo, avocado and salmon roe, the combination of flavours and textures surprised me. I’m not usually a fan of black olives but this brought them together so well, pulling out a subtlety of flavour I hadn’t thought possible.

Much as I loved the ceviches, I have to say the Anticuchos – Traditional Peruvian Skewers – were probably my favourite dish of the night. Tenderloin of beef marinated in a selection of herbs and grilled so perfectly that they achieved the consistency of braised or slow-cooked meat. I feel slightly spoiled for any future barbecue!

The last of our main courses was Arroz Con Mariscos – aji panca rice with a selection of seafood and parmesan. This is like a Peruvian version of paella, only a bit hotter, and came with a delicious, spicy Creole salsa. To be honest, we were saving space for dessert and didn’t do it justice, but, in just a few mouthfuls it was easy to appreciate the bursting flavours of the fresh seafood.

We had two types of dessert of which I must mention Lucuma Al Fajor, another chef’s signature. It’s baked dough filled with dulce de leche and lucuma, ice cream and mixed berries. Lucuma is a sweet fruit, native to regions of South America, which is creamy with a caramel-like taste. The combination with the berries and the delicious, sweet, crunchy dough discs, was like heaven on the tongue and the perfect end to a perfect evening. ✤

OUTSTANDING FLAVOURS, AMAZING VENUE

Liz O’Reilly took a trip down memory lane for a delightful dining experience.

Momento at Al Areen Palace & Spa by Accor is a beautiful restaurant that’s part of a beautiful property. I spent my first Christmas in a villa there when I arrived on the island almost 15 years ago and, since then, it has always had a piece of my heart. I love the drive down through the desert and the short ride on a golf buggy through the resort surrounded by opulence, lush greenery and tinkling water features

At the newly launched Momento, which used to be Keizo, it’s all crisp white linens and crystal. The ceiling, swathed in airy material, the sun-shaded terrace giving a sense of an African safari tent –even the poles holding the sunshades are spotted like the skin of a savanna beast – while inside, the cuisine is determinedly Mediterranean with freshness at a premium. Fresh white roses adorn the tables and dark wood flooring and furnishings add to the feeling of luxury while the outdoor dining area overlooking the waters of multiple ponds enjoys a serene desert backdrop. Arriving for a late lunch, we were immediately struck by the sense of tranquility and the gorgeous light all around. After a friendly greeting, we started with a Peninsula Green Salad featuring hydroponically grown greens, from Bahrain’s own Peninsula Farms, married with Heirloom tomatoes, seasonal mango, red and white quinoa and crunchy purple sago crackers, from Sous Chef Soni’s mum’s own recipe. The dish was topped with rich, salty goats cheese, also from Peninsula, the perfect foil to the sweetness of the mango and the herb and citrus drizzle. Soft creamy burrata from Italy again came with Heirloom tomatoes but this time blanched and skinned to give a pale and interesting appearance. The dish is served with high-grade olive oil in a pesto with walnuts, pistachio and pine nuts which adds an intriguing nutty earthiness to the richness of the cheese. I’m a sucker for calamari and Momento’s came fried with a crispy coating accompanied by lemon aioli and spicy marinara. The sauce had a slight kick of heat and the aioli was delightfully creamy but I preferred these delicious bites of soft, sweet calamari with just a squeeze of lemon to bring out the flavour of the seafood. Next came baby chicken with new potatoes and asparagus, eggplant caponata and chicken jus. The chicken was beautifully tender and juicy, stuffed with onions and vegetables which were teeming out as it was carved at the table. The eggplant was amazing. Barely smoky, as eggplant is known to be, but rather almost fruity, from more of those delicious tomatoes, and with a slight, welcome warmth. This was one of the stand-outs for me. Mediterranean Seabass with mixed roasted veg – tomatoes, broccoli and white asparagus – soon arrived at the table. Stuffed with thyme, lemon and seasoning and chargrilled then whole roasted, the skin was crispy and the flesh tasty and firm. I loved the white asparagus, which you don’t see very often. Served with a vinaigrette which gave a sweet and savoury combination, it added another dimension to the already excellent fish. We were also recommended to try the octopus, or polpo, which is cooked for eight hours sous vide, to ensure it is super tender with not a hint of rubberiness, and served with persilade sauce, red peppers and lemon and capers with crushed fingerling potatoes. My dining companion had specifically requested this

and could not have been happier, he actually says it is one of the best renderings of this dish on the island.

The piece de resistance was the Tomahawk steak, a speciality of Executive Chef Sumeet Kumi. This cut is so large that it can serve several diners and can be cooked rare in the centre, ranging out to medium-well done at the edges, so everyone gets the texture they desire. I went for a medium-rare slice and it was gamey and absolutely delicious. Melt-in-the-mouth tender it had just the right amount of seasoning to perfectly complement the highquality meat and the flavoursome juices flowing from within. Alongside our food, we also got to sample a selection of expertly mixed mocktails. The St Tropez – a combination of fresh berries, elderflower syrup and soda – was a great favourite, its perfect combination of sweet and tart just hitting the spot. Another that’s highly recommended was Habu Alhal – pineapple juice, lime juice, coconut milk, honey and cardamom syrup. This had an unexpected taste with such a great mix of flavours. It went down so well that my colleague and I were fighting over the last drop! I have to say though that I wasn’t truly convinced by A Ghaf. According to the menu “drinking cheese is the next big thing” and this is a mix of hibiscus/cascara tea, lime juice, peach syrup and vanilla syrup topped with goat cheese foam. I think this might be an acquired taste.

The finale, was, of course, a selection of desserts, including Tiramisu and pistachio panna cotta. Lava cake with homemade vanilla bean ice cream was my favourite. Deeply chocolatey and satisfyingly gooey, I ate it even though I was already thoroughly stuffed because, well, chocolate lava, how could I not?! ✤

SPORTY STEAKHOUSE

Melissa Nazareth enjoyed hearty appetisers, meaty mains and creative beverages at Black Angus.

My companion and I headed to Black Angus in Seef District to spend some ‘happy hours’ chatting over good food and drinks. The ground floor is more of a family area. We chose the loft where the bar is and it was a completely different atmosphere. Dimly lit with groovy music, the space had steakhouse and sports bar vibes; a DJ plays from 9pm to 2am. The interior was redone earlier this year; the lit bull head cut outs on the stage and columns were newly added and stand out. There are many TVs airing football matches and a separate room for those who’d like to shoot some pool. We settled at a table and, shortly after, were joined by Roshan Thoorira, Corporate Executive Chef. The evening commenced with the Black Angus Sampler, a hearty platter to share. It features Buffalo Wings, Jalapeno Dynamites, Onion Rings, Chicken Tenders, Mac & Cheese Balls and Fried Calamari. I particularly enjoyed the wings, which were tangy and spicy with a crispy skin, and the jalapeno bites, which had a sharpness from the warm, gooey cheese filling. Dips include Chipotle Ranch Dressing, which has an intense smoky flavour that I liked, Blue Cheese Dressing and Sweet Chilli Sauce. Next came the Black Angus Special Salad. Shrimp, steak bites, beef bacon, eggs, fresh greens, cheddar cheese, tomato and croutons, all tossed in a honey mustard dressing. I would have liked to go slightly heavier on the dressing. However, it was an interesting combination of ingredients and flavours. This was followed by the BBQ Brisket Aranchini, an interesting spin on the classic. The beef brisket was rich and fragrant and elevated the cheesy risotto. There were many textures at play,

such as the crispy-fried coating and mushy insides with the bite from the risotto. Flavour wise, the filling was combined with a creamy, tangy marinara, which complemented the sweet beetroot sauce drizzled on the plate. Each sphere was topped with a fried parmesan square. Our appetisers were served alongside creative beverages. Blue Ocean was presented in a fish bowl-shaped glass. The blue concoction on ice resembled the ocean and rocks and the floating red gummy fish made it realistic. Our server used dry ice to make it smoke up at our table – fancy! He did the same with Very Berry Bubbly, which was served in a glass that looked like a strawberry and tasted like it, and with Victoria’s Secret, which came in a slender glass with a rosemary sprig, cherry and toasted marshmallow. I caught delicate undertones of cucumber in the latter, which I quite liked. Pink Pantheress looked immaculate in a coupe glass with a dainty fern as garnish and tasted raspberry-ish and lemony. Just when we thought we’d seen it all, our server reappeared with Pirates Of The Caribbean, a violet-hued potion with subtle fruity flavours. It was presented on a model ship with sails made from orange peels – Black Angus certainly does put a lot of thought into its creations! The mains followed soon after and opening the show was the Black Angus Wagyu Burger. It looked like a star assembled on an activated charcoal bun. We learned that activated charcoal helps the metabolism, which is much needed when you’re devouring a feast such as this! The patty was succulent and had that rich umami flavour characteristic of Wagyu beef. We were quite surprised to find the pickle, onion and tomato slices served on the side. Black Angus recommends eating the veggies separately so as to fully enjoy the flavours of the meat. The burger was topped

with a savoury, melted parmesan cheese that complemented the meaty juices. The side of truffle parmesan potato fries was an interesting touch – a subtle yet persistent seasoning. Next on the chopping board was the Smoked BBQ Brisket. When it’s cooked for eight hours and smoked for an hour, you know it’s going to taste great. The sweet and smoky sauce lent the brisket a glaze and heaps of flavour that complemented the natural taste of the meat. It was served with a side of crispy, tangy and spicy fried jalapeno slices, which balanced the sweetness from the BBQ sauce, and creamy mashed potato. You can ask for fries but we recommend the mash.

The showstopper was the 24K Gold Plated Wagyu Tomahawk. We were told this is a Black Angus signature – no one else on the island serves it this way. The gold leaf is edible and specially imported from the US. “Gold has properties that lend your skin a glow,” Roshan enlightened us. Well, we will be glowing for a while after this meal, from the gold, perhaps, but mainly because it was such an enjoyable experience. The presentation on this last dish was meticulous, worthy of a cut such as this. Cooked to medium, it had all its flavours and juices intact. It was served with a side of grilled vegetables and two sauces – mushroom and pepper, both of which imbued the beast with further flavour. Black Angus may be a small player among the big boys in the area but it’s quite the contender. ✤

A LUXURIOUS, LAIDBACK BRUNCH

Melissa Nazareth found an exciting but refined-dining experience when she headed to brunch at Legendz SteakHouse, InterContinental Regency Bahrain.

We were excited to try this brunch with its early, 11am, start and emphasis on great breakfast dishes as well as the many classic staples. And we found a friendly, warm atmosphere with upbeat vibes and good music as we were welcomed to Legendz SteakHouse. Safe to say there’s an air of exclusivity mixed with a feeling of fun, reminiscent of the brunches of old.

Located at Bab Al Bahrain, an iconic island landmark, the restaurant put on a lavish spread with the highest quality ingredients and almost everything prepared fresh to-order rather than pre-cooked. We discovered a wide range of breakfast items, including eggs cooked to our desire – we went for the delicious Eggs Benedict –croissants, freshly-made coffee and more, much more; the Cold Buffet, featuring a live ceviche bar, a sushi bar, salads, a charcuterie bar, a gravlax or cured salmon bar – be still my beating heart –a cold seafood bar and more; the Hot Buffet, featuring a variety of hot dishes, from lasagna to herb-crusted hammour, a carving station with expertly cooked roasts, a taco bar, pasta and more; a BBQ and Live Grill station, featuring premium cuts and fresh catch from the sea all cooked to our liking; and, of course, dessert. We sipped on a colourful, fruity welcome drink while contemplating where to begin; a selection of mocktails and artisan brunch beverages are available. Eventually, we decided –breakfast it is! It’s worth mentioning that Legendz takes the word ‘brunch’ seriously because they focus equally on breakfast and lunch items and are the only spot to start serving early at 11am, so you really are in the mood for some classic morning bites. Our culinary adventure began with Eggs Benedict, which were made to order. The hollandaise sauce was savoury and tasted cheesy, complementing the rich, runny yolk. Texture wise, it worked fantastically with the toasty English muffin. I particularly loved the sausages, which were tasty and salty. The grilled

tomatoes dusted with herbs offered a freshness to our comforting, greasy – in a good way – mains. It was fun to try the variety of cheeses and breads, including a wide range of pastries, as well as pancakes and waffles. We even had our own breadbasket at our table with croissants, muffins and other such. The truffle honey yoghurt was intriguing and I quite enjoyed the subtle truffle aftertaste. Full points for creativity, Legendz SteakHouse! Next, we headed over to the sushi and sashimi bar and there was quite some variety to explore. In my experience, sushi at buffets tends to be dry but not at Legendz. The rice was well seasoned, tangy with the vinegar and the fish was fresh. The colours at this counter could have put a rainbow to shame – a testament to meticulous presentation. After this, we tried the beetroot gravlax, which is cured for 24 hours. The vibrant coral of the salmon had taken on the ruby red of the beetroot, making it visually appetising. The fish was salty like the sea, elevated by the tartness of the capers and punctuated by hints of sweetness from the beets.

By this time, we had worked up quite an appetite. In perfect timing, our server presented beef short ribs that had been slow cooked for 28 hours and glazed with a sweet barbecue sauce. As he lifted the dome, the smoke dissipated to reveal the beast and also rendered an intense flavour to the meat, which was falling off the bone. The sweetness of the sauce complemented the secret spice mix that infused the meat thoroughly.

I’m a fan of a good Sunday roast, or Friday in our part of the world. Sat on the carving station, the meat looked juicy. I asked for a slice, which was drizzled with a flavourful Béarnaise sauce and pan jus and served alongside Yorkshire pudding and roasted root veg. Succulent, oozing bloody juices, the meat was cooked perfectly as were the pudding and vegetables – crispy on the

outside, and spongy and soft, respectively, on the inside. We were getting fuller by the second. However, the brunch runs from 11am to 4pm, which gave us a lot of time. We sat for a while, digesting, sipping on brunchy classics and enjoying music from the DJ. Dimly-lit, the restaurant has an ideally-sized seating area and offers an almost private dining experience. Once we felt our stomachs ease a bit, we made our way to the meat counter, which featured multinational cuts – South African tenderloin, New Zealand flank steak and filet mignon, US sirloin, Australian cube role, Middle Eastern specialities such as black lemon-marinated beef skewers… Accompanying these were locally caught sea bass, sea bream and the biggest shrimp I’ve ever seen alongside succulent salmon. We asked the chef to surprise us and were served a perfectly cooked ribeye, which we relished but not before trying out the wide range of hot dishes, starting with a cream of mushroom soup. I was impressed by how something as simple as mushrooms could be transformed into something so flavourful – safe to say, Legendz only uses premium ingredients. The dessert station, like the others, spoiled us for choice – cakes, Key Lime Pie, Lavender Brulee, Coffee Tiramisu… I went in for a chocolate mousse, immaculately presented in a verrine or glass, topped with a crumble for texture and tangy mixed berries that cut the richness of the airy mousse.

If you’re looking for a quality yet affordable brunch, Legendz is the place to be. ✤

NOVEMBER NOMS

Enjoy this month’s selection of Thanksgiving celebrations, World Cup brunches, seafood nights and much more.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY Thanksgiving At Home

Indulge in a classic Four Seasons festive feast with all of the trimmings from the comfort of your home. A scrumptious lavender honey roast turkey with chicken Cumberland sausage, glazed sweet potatoes, roasted butternut squash soup, apple walnut salad and much more. The offer runs from November 24 to 26. The offer is priced at BD95 net for a maximum of six people for a roasted turkey with all the trimmings; BD180 net for a maximum of six people for a full festive feast. You can get a 10% early bird discount if you place your order before November 12. Enjoy complimentary delivery for orders over BD50.

GO: Call 1711 5500 for more information or to place an order.

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

Al Waha

Enjoy the ocean on your plate at Al Waha’s Seafood Night! Pair your meal with special sauces, a set of hot appetisers and a spread of charming miniature desserts. The offer runs every Thursday from 7pm to 10.30pm and is priced at BD25 net, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD32 net, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1771 3000 for more information or to make a reservation.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

La Mosaique Restaurant

Experience true Italian flavours with L’Italia A Tavola nights and enjoy the live cooking of pasta in different flavours alongside other tasty dishes. The offer runs every Tuesday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD18 net, inclusive of soft beverages.

GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3924 2391 for more information or to make a reservation

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

Spices

Take a break from your routine and experience Chef Pramod’s special set menu at Spices, the perfect place for great conversations, business meetings and appointments. A Thali Business Lunch runs from Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 3pm, and is priced at BD7 net inclusive of soft beverages.

GO: Call 1753 1122 or WhatsApp 3898 7167 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

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Wolfgang Puck

Savour a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with a contemporary Wolfgang Puck twist. Enjoy DJ tunes and Thanksgiving favourites such as deep-fried turkey with cranberry apple compote, brioche stuffing and kabocha pumpkin pie. The offer runs on November 24 from 7pm to 12am and is priced at BD59 net, for food only.

GO: Call 1711 5044 for more information or to make a reservation.

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

Fusions by Tala

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience at Fusions by Tala with a curated lunch designed to expand your palate with the best of Bahraini food and culinary artistry. The offer runs every Saturday from 12pm to 5pm and is priced at BD35, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD45, inclusive of selected beverages. GO: Call 1771 3000 for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

Legendz SteakHouse

Celebrate the Brunch @ Regency every Friday from 11am to 4pm, with a variety of options starting with breakfast classics and ending with lunch. The offer is priced at BD28 net, inclusive of soft drinks, and BD37 net, inclusive of endless fortified beverages.

GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

Regency Tent

Enjoy all your Thanksgiving holiday favourites, including stuffed turkey, green beans with almonds, pumpkin pies, carved roast beef and ham, salads, side dishes, desserts and more. The offer runs on Thursday, November 24 from 6pm to 10.30pm at the Regency Tent. It’s priced at BD22, inclusive of soft drinks, BD28, inclusive of grape and selected beverages, and BD31 inclusive of fortified beverages. You will need to make a reservation.

GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a reservation.

LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Longitude 50

Enjoy a pastry and coffee combo at Longitude 50. The offer runs daily from 12pm to 6pm and is priced at BD3.9 per person.

GO: Call 1717 1000 or WhatsApp 3320 4175 for more information or to make a reservation.

LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Baharat

Restaurant

Enjoy a celebration of authentic Turkish food at Baharat. The offer runs every Friday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD19 net per person, inclusive of soft drinks, and BD29 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1717 1441 or WhatsApp 3888 5841 for more information or to make a reservation.

LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Baharat

Restaurant

Join Baharat for a Surf & Turf night with your choice of a selection of prime beef cuts and fresh seafood flame-grilled to order. Garnish the grill experience with fresh salads, starters and locally-grown grilled vegetables. End your dinner with something from one of the largest awarded selections of desserts. The offer runs every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD28 net per person, inclusive of soft drinks, and BD38 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1717 1441 or WhatsApp 3888 5841 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Gallery Lobby Lounge & Silk’s

Restaurant

Get some quality time with your friends and family at Mövenpick Brunch! Enjoy exquisite culinary delights and a pleasant atmosphere with live entertainment by a band. The offer runs on Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD33+++ per person, inclusive of unlimited selected beverages; children from the ages of six to 12 get a 50% discount and kids under six dine for free.

GO: Call 1746 0017 or 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Silk’s Restaurant

Bite into your favourite dishes and get ready to welcome the weekend! Satisfy your taste buds with the finest quality, ultra-flavourful steaks, sizzling skillets and flamegrilled meats, all in one place, with entertainment by a DJ. The offer runs every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD26+++ per person, inclusive of unlimited selected beverages.

GO: Call 1746 0017 or 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

FIFA

World Cup Tent

Experience the Sofitel Bahrain 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Tent by the sea. Fans can watch matches in glorious high-definition on one of the largest indoor screens in Bahrain. Relish delicious dishes served at the live food counter and enjoy selected beverages during matches. The offer runs daily from November 20 to December 18, 12pm to 12am, and is priced à la carte.

GO: Call 1763 6363 or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more details or to make a reservation.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Fiamma Restaurant

Enjoy Surf & Turf night prepared in the style of an authentic French brasserie at Fiamma Restaurant. There’s an unlimited selection of meat prepared by Chef Marco Terranova with a glass of grape. The offer runs every Thursday and Friday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD30 per person.

GO: Call 1763 6363 or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more details or to make a reservation.

THE ART HOTEL & RESORT Choices

The World Cup is approaching, and excitement for the event is building. Join Choices for a World Cup brunch to celebrate the start of the tournament. The offer runs on November 18 from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD26 net per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD36 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1600 0111 or 3358 0020 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE ART HOTEL & RESORT

Choices Restaurant & Terrace

Setting the scene for joyous moments of togetherness, Choices is offering a festive celebration of Thanksgiving delights. Gather with your loved ones and experience a festive afternoon along with live music entertainment. The brunch runs on November 25 from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD26 net per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD36 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1600 0111 or 3358 0020 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

Bo.Sabi

Enjoy a Bo.Sabi brunch with live entertainment and unlimited selected beverages. The offer runs every Friday from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at BD32 net.

GO: Call 3811 1474 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

Mondo, Taste of Italy

Enjoy a Get 2 Gather meal with your friends, including pasta, pizza and lemonade. The offer runs daily from 5pm to 11pm on weekdays and 12pm to 11pm on weekends and is priced at BD10 per person, with a minimum requirement of two guests per booking.

GO: Call 1753 1666 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE MERCHANT HOUSE Indigo Terrace

Enjoy the Friday Fab Brunch, now with a revamped menu. With the weather cooling down, unwind at the rooftop venue, Indigo Terrace as you tuck into popular Mediterranean dishes and Indigo’s signature favourites. The offer runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at BD30, inclusive of soft drinks, and BD45, inclusive of selected beverages. You could also choose to dine à la carte.

GO: Call 1667 8666 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN Cantina Kahlo

Indulge in a weekend brunch fiesta, a celebration with traditional Mexican favourites and entertainment, all within a vibrant and colourful setting. The offer runs on Friday and Saturday, from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at BD35 per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD45 per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1758 6499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a reservation.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN Nirvana

Immerse your senses with the Great Indian Thali at Nirvana, a journey featuring authentic Indian cuisine that will transport your palate to new heavens. The offer runs on Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday, from noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm. It’s priced at BD24 per person, inclusive of one lassi.

GO: Call 1758 6499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Furn Bistro

Enjoy a Ciao Belli Aperitivo at the Furn Bistro and revel in a fourcourse Italian set menu. The offer runs every Tuesday from 6pm to 9pm and is priced at BD17 net per person, inclusive of soft beverages and mocktails, and BD25 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1717 1441 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Salero

Join Salero for Vermut e tu salud and enjoy a Spanish Saturday fiesta ambiance. Socialise, share traditional tapas and sip on Spanish red and white fruity drinks as you sway to music from a DJ and Flamenco performances. The offer runs every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm and is priced at BD22 net, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD29.5 net, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1717 1300, WhatsApp 3553 8150 or visit @ salerobahrain for more information or to make a reservation.

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN

Origins Restaurant

Looking for a high-spirited atmosphere to watch the World Cup matches? Vida Beach Resort Home of Football has you covered. Three large screens around Origins’ terrace will give you the chance to catch the action live, no matter where you’re seated. Vida is kicking off the football season with 50% off F&B on November 20. Join the raffle to win prizes with daily Predict & Win competitions at the end of every game. Monday night is for the ladies, with 50% off F&B. Groups of five or more receive a 20% discount off the total bill. Enjoy Offside Hours post-game where you can get a 25% discount on selected beverages. There’s also 15% off for whoever is wearing their team jerseys on their match days and Vida Loyalty Vouchers to avail of 25% off F&B on your next visit. The offers run from November 20 to December 18.

GO: Call 7748 8100 for more information or to make a reservation.

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN

Origins Restaurant

Your mental and physical health is important and so is that of the ones making sure you’re keeping healthy and happy. In honour of Bahraini Doctors’ Day on November 2, recognising the efforts and contributions of physicians, Vida Beach Resort Bahrain is offering doctors 30% off on F&B and free beach access.

GO: Call 7748 8100 for more information or to make a reservation.

MAGICAL MOROCCO

Characterised by an exotic culture and offering a multitude of experiences, the Kingdom of Morocco, as it’s officially known, is a wonderful place to visit during the winter.

Morocco is a popular tourist destination and, yes, it can get quite crowded during the summer. However, if you visit this time of the year, you can enjoy the best of the country from skiing, desert camping and hiking to sightseeing, cultural activities and more without having to wade through a sea of eager travellers. Additionally, the climate is pleasant with temperatures never exceeding 17 degrees Celsius. In this feature, we will explore three major cities in Morocco, each offering different things to see and do.

RABAT

The capital city, Rabat is steeped in history and home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kasbah des Oudaias is a popular attraction. Bab Oudaia, the gateway to this walled citadel, is a fine piece of Moroccan architecture and features arabesque designs and inscriptions in Kufic script, a decorative style. Some of the remains of the fortress date as far back as the 12th century. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from here. The Bou Regreg river empties into the ocean at this location. In the same premises, you can visit Jama' al-'Atiqa or the Old Mosque. A medieval Moroccan mosque, it was largely restored in the 18th century. However, only Muslims are allowed to enter. There’s an Andalusian Garden here as well, which features a variety of trees and plants such as bougainvillea and citrus trees and is a hit with locals and tourists alike. If you want to catch a glimpse of the locals going about their daily lives, head to the souq or marketplace in the old town of Rabat. ‘Blue Town’ is also located here. Dotted with white and blue-walled houses, it offers a beautiful backdrop for photographs.

Hassan Tower minaret invokes strong emotions. Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur, an Almohad Caliphate ruler, set out to build the largest mosque in the world with the tallest minaret. Sadly, he died before the completion of the work. Today, the unfinished minaret stands at 44m tall alongside remains of partially built walls and columns. Across from Hassan Tower is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. It exhibits traditional Moroccan craftsmanship and holds the tombs of the King and his two late sons.

Explore Chellah, the location of an ancient Roman city. As you walk across the site, you will see broken columns and stones with inscriptions among the remains. This site also served as a necropolis, which was destroyed due to earthquakes and looting. You can find parts of mosques and tombs among the remains.

Art lovers must visit Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, one among the 14 museums of the National Foundation of Museums of Morocco. In addition to housing the work of popular Moroccan artists of the likes of Hassan Hajjaj and Ahmed Yacoubi, it also showcases pieces by contemporary artists.

MARRAKESH

Visually, Marrakesh is a flaming coral sea of structures sculpted out of a variety of native clay. That’s what gives the city its name – red city. Marrakesh gained further mainstream popularity with the Netflix series Inventing Anna, which featured Jardin Majorelle, a complex of gardens and buildings. In the garden, which sprawls across two acres, you can find a notable collection of cacti, sculptures and fountains. Additionally, it’s home to local birds. The complex also houses a museum, which has the original owner Jacques Majorelle’s paintings and artefacts from the Berber culture – an ethnic group indigenous to North Africa including Morocco. Jardin Majorelle is presently owned by renowned fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. Musée Yves Saint Laurent, a museum dedicated to the fashion brand, is located a stone's throw away. Kutubiyya Mosque, the largest in Marrakesh, is so named because of the book-selling trade that was practised in the nearby souq; the word Kutubiyya is derived from the Arabic word meaning booksellers. The mosque’s minaret, a popular symbol of Marrakesh, is the source of a well-known legend: it’s said that the trio of copper spheres on the spire were originally made of gold. Either way, the mosque exhibits beautiful Moroccan architecture, which is admirable.

Close to Kutubiyya Mosque are the Menara Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend some peaceful hours immersed in nature. You can find olive, fruit and cypress

trees here. Walk around, inhaling the fresh air and then, head to a nearby cafe.

Jemaa-el-Fna, a marketplace and square at the entrance of the old city or medina, is protected as a ‘cultural space’ and recognised for its ‘intangible heritage’. It used to be the gathering place of local vendors, from traditional dentists and snake charmers to story-tellers. Today, it’s a buzzing hub of henna tattoo artists and potion sellers – you can buy a range of herbal products here; argan and other herbal oils, face masks, Moroccan teas… At night, the space transforms into a cultural extravaganza of performers and musicians. Souq Semmarine, right next to Jemaa-el-Fna, is a bustling market offering a variety of products such as textiles, carpets, leather goods, spices and handicrafts – the perfect pit stop for some souvenir shopping – don’t forget to buy yourself a pair of the popular babouche slippers – colourful, embroidered closed flats.

Pay a visit to Musée de la Musique in Mouassine to discover the musical heritage of Morocco. Located in a 16th- to 17th-century house, the space hosts many permanent and temporary exhibitions. The main attraction, however, is the musical evenings, where you can enjoy a live performance, followed by traditional Moroccan tea and biscuits.

If you’re planning an extended vacation later this year, don’t miss skiing at Oukaïmeden. It’s less than a two-hour drive from Marrakesh and one the premier ski areas in all of Morocco. Standing at over 3,000m, it’s the highest ski resort in Africa. There are slopes for all abilities. While the main ski months are from mid-December until around the end of March, January and February are said to be most ideal. You can rent a chalet in the area to rest after your adrenaline-pumping adventure.

Agafay is a popular camping site, located about an hour from Marrakesh. It’s more luxury camping or ‘glamping’

as it’s commonly known. Explore the dunes on a buggy or quad bike, relax in a tent or around a campfire and swim in an outdoor pool – a tranquil oasis in the middle of a desert!

CHEFCHAOUEN

Nestled in the foothills of the Rif mountain range, Chefchaouen is most known for its expanse of blue and white buildings. There are many theories behind this colour choice. Some attribute the trend to Jewish immigrants, others say it’s to keep mosquitos away. Regardless, it lends a certain aesthetic to the cityscape, making it a photographer’s paradise. It’s not uncommon for tourists to pose in front of blue-hued houses and decorative doors.

Nature buffs will enjoy exploring this natural haven. Many hiking trails start from Chefchaouen. You could explore these on your own or hire a guide. Once you reach the top, the view is astounding. Sunrises and sunsets are mesmerising here. The hike to Jebel El-Kalaa summit is popular.

Adrenaline junkies don’t forget to hike up to Cascades d'Akchour or Akchour Waterfalls. It’s a beautiful sight to behold and the journey, surrounded by foliage and rock formations, birds chirping and the sound of the river is surreal too. The hike to the grand cascade, or taller waterfall, will take longer. There’s a shorter route that leads to the lower stream and there are other mid-level streams too. Once you’re there, dip your feet in the water and refresh yourself before you head back.

If you have more time, or another day to spare, hike to Pont de Dieu or God’s Bridge. It’s a rock formation that forms a bridge between two mountains, which looks like an archway when you see it from down below where the hike ends; there’s a river and waterfall here too. In fact, the starting point of the trail is a dam, which branches out into two paths – one leading to God’s Bridge and the other to Akchour Waterfalls.

Spelunkers in the house can explore Kef Toghobeit, the deepest cave in Morocco and third deepest in Africa. It’s a formation in the Riff Mountains, located in Bab Taz, which is about an hour from Akchour village.

Ras el-Maa is a popular natural spring that flows through the city. It’s surrounded by restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal with the sound of babbling brooks to serenade you. The tagine is a must-try; named after the uniquely shaped clay vessel in which the food – typically vegetables with lamb, chicken or fish – is cooked. It’s a slow cooking process with evenly distributed heat, which seals in the flavours and nutrients.

End your trip with an authentic Moroccan hammam experience. Ensure you go to a local place as that’s where you will enjoy an unfiltered version. When we say unfiltered, we mean it quite literally because a hammam is basically a public bath. Traditionally, bathers take their time, chatting sat in a large steam room, so to speak, scrubbing each other’s backs using a special perfumed soap-like object. You could even buy these at the local flea market for an extended hammam long after you’ve returned home. ✤

SIMPLICITY, QUALITY AND DESIGN

Three key trends take centre stage in the latest drop from European brand, Sacoor Brothers.

The Autumn-Winter 2022 collection focusses on contemporary yet impactful silhouettes highlighting the brand’s signature identity. This season’s cuts are sophisticatedly wearable and versatile with simplicity, quality and design coming together, all rendered in an earthy and neutral palette.

Refined Resort

From standout printed pieces inspired from vacations to restrained pieces in neutral tones that function perfectly well as trans seasonal items, the collection features sophisticated athleisure sets and elevated basics such as an unlined 100% linen blazer that’s perfect for businessmen who dress to impress, the men’s collection also includes loungewear sets, polos, casual shirts and chinos.

Modern Staples

Blur the boundaries between lounge, work and casualwear with smartened up cut-and-sew items in distinguished basics and smooth finish jerseys. Utilising clever accents and seasonal colour messages, the collection redefines work dress codes for practicality and comfort. Blazers crafted in the soft wool Prince of Wales fabric feature the signature Sacoor fit – tapered through the chest with slightly pronounced shoulders, emphasising the male physique. From lightweight sweaters and denims

to shirts and chinos, pieces can be spontaneously mixed and matched for a perfect afternoon away from the office. Debuting an organic cotton capsule collection, the line also features outfits that combine homewear inspiration with a twist of relaxed athleisure, produced in organic cotton.

For women, sophisticated buttery-soft leather jackets that feature statement hardware details are designed in tailoring-inspired silhouettes and finished with a classic biker fit. Tonal two-piece blazer sets, utility jackets, tops with unique necklines, knitted sweaters and loose-fit dresses are must-have styles for now and classic designs you’ll wear forever.

Clubhouse Edition

From tweed sport coats to preppy cardigans for men, this trend combines sportier pieces with formal styles inspired by Gen Z. Informal and comfy with just a touch of rebellious, Sacoor’s Gen Z collection reflects a new wave of life.

In timeless and on-trend designs, the women’s edit plays with proportions ranging from sharp, slim cut to oversized and voluminous. Give your back-to-work a polished look with Sacoor Brothers’ satin capsule line, perfect for effortless and timeless inspiration. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.SACOORBROTHERS.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

BIG SCREEN

Luckiest Girl Alive

Need to Know:

Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

Need to Know:

Based on the life of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, the biographical crime drama series portrays the making of the ‘monster’. It showcases both sides to the story – the childhood trauma that may have caused Dahmer to transform into the nightmare we know, while at the same time asking the important question – does his trauma justify his actions – killing at least 17 young men, including minors?

Cast

Why Is It Worth Watching?

The 10-part Netflix series follows the life of Jeffrey Dahmer, from his childhood right up to his murder in prison. An inconsistent childhood, with parents fighting and finally their divorce, seems to have deeply influenced the protagonist, whose father, observing his keenness for science, teaches him to dissect roadkill, only for the former to realise his deep obsession with organs.

Dahmer seems to be your American boy next-door, working odd jobs and living in a humble apartment in a primarily African-American neighbourhood – there’s a race angle to the story. However, he brings home victims – predominantly black – on the pretext of being a photographer looking for models. He then kills them violently, after which he dismembers their bodies and even resorts to cannibalism – gory. The scenes are pretty graphic, inducing a gag reflex, especially the one where Dahmer is shown tucking into what looks like a cooked steak but…

Despite repeated complaints by his neighbour, the police exhibit a careless attitude until one of Dahmer’s victims manages to run away. Victims’ corpses decomposing in acid, a freezer stocked with vital organs and skulls and bones stashed away are some of the items the police later discover.

Brilliant cinematography, compelling acting and clever direction come together to create this must-watch true-crime series.

A mystery thriller, the film is based on the screenplay by Jessica Knoll who is also the author of the novel with the same title. Ani, the protagonist, seems to have it all. A successful career as senior editor of a reputed New York women’s magazine, the perfect relationship… However, she seems to be harbouring a dark past.

Director: Mike Barker

Cast : Mila Kunis, Finn Wittrock, Scoot McNairy, Thomas Barbusca, Jennifer Beals, Connie Britton

Why Is It Worth Watching?

Horrors from Ani’s past resurface when she is approached by a documentary director, working on a film about a school shooting. The plot goes on to reveal that the shooting took place at Ani’s school. She clearly hasn’t gotten over it yet but there’s more than what meets the eye.

In a series of flashbacks, we see Ani joining a prestigious school. While there, she befriends some popular kids, particularly three boys. It’s interesting to watch how starkly different the personalities of teenaged Ani and present-day Ani are. Characteristic traits that she seems to have locked up inside her over the years. Mila Kunis plays this complex character quite convincingly.

The plot goes on to reveal that young Ani was accused as an accomplice in the shooting, which killed two of the boys and handicapped the third –Dean Barton – who is also part of the documentary. Director Mike Barker has created a tension between characters that stems from human emotion – its fragility and volatility. The plot twist comes when we learn who the shooters are.

Dealing with these skeletons from her past forces Ani to take a hard look at who she really is and what she really wants. Will she stay true to herself? Will she finally redeem herself? It’s refreshing to see a female lead. Further, intense drama woven around important social issues will keep you going on this one.

Director: Ryan Murphy

: Evan Peters, Richard Jenkins, Molly Ringwald, Niecy Nash, Michael Learned

Brilliant cinematography, compelling acting and clever direction come together to create this must-watch true-crime series.

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ON THE RECORD

ALTERNATIVE/INDIE

God Save The Animals

By Alex G

Alex G is an American musician, producer and singer-songwriter who started his career with DIY self-releases. God Save The Animals is his ninth album released by Domino Recording Company. The songs on this one feel like they’ve been produced from the bedroom or garage. They’re easygoing with simple lyrics and music. However, neither is simplistic. One wonders why the album is so named but when you listen to the words, you sense a tension that’s commonly experienced in relationships with people, with oneself even – is that why? There’s a wide range of musical elements, which showcase the artist’s creativity, from simple, stringy guitars and clear, crisp drumbeats to voice distortions and background whispers for added effect. The opening After All starts with a guitar piece that gives off country music vibes. It then transitions into a trance-like sound, setting the mood for the rest of the album. When you’re halfway through, the sound changes in Cross The Sea, which is completely different from the tracks right up to that point; almost seeming to have Eastern-influenced music and beats. Following it is Blessing, which is heavily characterised by indie-rock elements. The LP has foot-tapping numbers, such as Runner, Early Morning Waiting and Headroom Piano, that keep the spirits high and slower ones, such as Immunity, Miracles and Forgive, which balance things out.

All in all, this album is the perfect background score to an evening indoors, by the fireside or even outdoors around a campfire, offering intense emotional themes to mull over.

ALTERNATIVE/INDIE, POP Moss

By Maya Hawke

Maya Ray Thurman Hawke is an American actress, model and singersongwriter. Earlier this year, she released the single Thérèse and announced the release of Moss by record label Mom + Pop Music. She has been quoted as saying “music is the best way to communicate poetry” and those are exactly the vibes Moss gives off. The music is soothing, simple with the acoustic guitar standing out. It makes you picture Hawke sitting on her bed, strumming away and pouring out her innermost thoughts. These thoughts are deep, we realise when we try to study the lyrics of the songs that cover diverse themes.

The album starts with Backup Plan where Hawke declares: “I wanna be anything you've lost that you might be lookin' for”. There are undertones of friendship here, love even. Bloomed Into Blue suggests a struggle to be yourself against a world that’s trying to change you, fit you into a standard mould, leaving you with no other choice but to disappear. The tambourine in the background adds a certain light-hearted element, in keeping with the tone of the LP.

The music picks up pace in Sweet Tooth , an ode to Hawke’s mother, you’d think. However, the song is so relatable, it could be about mothers around the world: “I'm grateful for everything you put me through. It's the only reason I'm any good to talk to. When I'm sick or suffering, I'll still call you. About my big, sore sweet tooth.”

FULLY BOOKED

AUTOBIOGRAPHY

Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story

By Bono

Bono, the frontman of U2 and one of the world’s most celebrated artists and activists, has released an autobiography. The book goes from his younger days growing up in Dublin and the sudden loss of his mother at the tender age of 14, to U2’s unexpected journey and success as one of the world’s most dominant rock bands, as well as his activism against AIDS and poverty. Nostalgic and self-reflective qualities offer an intimate glimpse into his character and inner life and reveal the family, friends and experiences that have challenged and shaped him throughout the years. He says: “Surrender is a word freighted with meaning for me. A word I only circled until I gathered my thoughts for the book. Surrender is the story of one pilgrim’s lack of progress...With a fair amount of fun along the way."

FICTION The Passenger

By Cormac McCarthy

The American novelist and playwright Cormac McCarthy has released his first novel in a 15 years. The Pullitzer Prize winner for his 2007 novel The Road has been named one of the four major American novelists of his time by critic Harold Bloom. The Passenger tells the tale of a deep-sea crash site which mysteriously lacks the pilot’s flight bag, the plane’s black box and the 10th passenger. Bobby Western, the protagonist of the story and discoverer of the site, tries to unravel the puzzle as he travels across the American South. Throughout his journey, he is constantly shadowed by men with badges and haunted by the ghost of his father, the inventor of the bomb that fell on Hiroshima during World War II, and his sister, who is both his greatest love and downfall.

ELLIS BROOKLYN

Vanilla Milk Eau de Parfum

Ellis Brooklyn’s New Vanilla Milk Eau de Parfum delivers a sweet yet sophisticated scent to the wearer. Described as a ‘fragrance of paradoxes’, the perfume harbours ingredients such as two types of vanilla extracts, a touch of florals, delicious cocoa shell, delectable amyris and cream. With the colder months arriving and a cooler breeze whistling through the air, this scent would not be a bad choice. It’s created by Ellis Brooklyn’s Bee Shapiro and female Irish perfumer Meabh McCurtin, two outsiders to the perfume world, who came together to create a vanilla fragrance from a fresh perspective.

GUCCI Blush de Beauté

Gucci’s new Blush de Beauté is the first of the company’s powder blushes purely made for creative expression. The smooth multi-use blushes come in six colours and can be applied on your cheeks and eyes to give you that glow. Thanks to the cool formula, you can also layer the make-up to go from a light tone to a daring look or anything in between, as per your taste. Ingredients include shea butter, which reduces dryness and hydrates the skin, hyaluronic acid, which provides long-lasting nourishment, and black rose oil, which provides antioxidant benefits.

Also imbued are waxes that deliver long-lasting colour.

KATE SOMMERVILLE

Recharging Water Cream Moisturiser

Kate Sommerville’s Recharging Water Cream Moisturiser is the ultimate solution to combatting skin dehydration. Developed in Kate’s Skin Health Experts Clinic, this product helps the complexion to drink in vital hydration, plumping and recharging thirsty skin after just one use. The Nobel Prize-inspired AquaPort Technology and hyaluronic acid included in the formula deliver instant and long-lasting hydration.

MAC

Fix+Stay Over Setting Spray

MAC’s new alcohol-free and hydrating setting spray sets make-up on your face for 16 hours straight as well as protecting it from pollution and blue light. The spray sets the make-up so that it stays colour-true and does not oxidise. Lock your look with this glamorous new product, which is made with antioxidants and microscopic film-former particles that work to keep your look protected, fresh and clean.

ASGHARALI

Gravity by Bovlix Pour Femme

The new signature perfume Gravity is a collaboration with Salah Abdulmajeed, aka Bovlix, a MENA celebrity influencer based in Bahrain. Following the sellout launch of the male fragrance, the company has released of the female edition. An enchanting fragrance of floral Oriental musk, that captivates with its freshness and beauty, while bold and long lasting, Bovlix worked closely with the experts at Asgharali to develop a fragrance that delivers on its promise. Top accords include pink peppercorn and violets balanced against intense floral notes from rose, lily of the valley and jasmine, inwrought with long-lasting dry amber and musk as its base fragrance.

Asgharali’s Gravity by Bovlix Pour Femme is now available in all Asgharali stores.

Scents, skincare, grooming musthaves – check.

LANCOME

Advanced Genifique Anti-Aging Serum

This effective serum is the ultimate new antiageing product you can buy. It claims to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier with just one drop and promotes healthy and glowing skin by helping it lock in moisture and hydration and defending against external pollutants, cold and dry weather.

Ingredients include 10% Bigidus Prebiotic, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin Cg, all effective at improving your complexion and reducing the look of dull skin and signs of ageing. The serum also improves elasticity and the appearance of fine lines. Effective results can be seen within seven days if used every morning and evening. Apply after cleansing and toning.

BURBERRY

Hero Eau de Parfum

Burberry has announced the new Hero Eau de Parfum, the latest addition to the Hero collection, with a message of ‘A powerful fragrance to awaken the hero within’. The scent is inspired by a sense of exploration with a search for freedom and a journey towards personal transformation. It boasts a woody mixture of fragrances, including warm cedarwood oils as its base scents, along with pine needle and Benzoin.

FUR KP Body Scrub

This fantastic new body scrub by fur is targeted specifically for those who have Keratosis Pilaris, as well as those who have rough patches and bumps. Give your skin a complete overhaul with this physical and chemical scrub that combines the skin benefits of microdermabrasion and chemical exfoliation to completely renew your skin.

Ingredients include perlite, a mineral derived from naturally occurring volcanic rock and an effective exfoliant, lactic acid, which contains 14% active alpha-hydroxy acids, licorice root extract, which brightens the skin and soothes redness, and sunflower seed oil, which is rich in vitamin E, A and C and helps hydrate the skin.

AESOP

Herbal Deodorant Roll-On

If you’re looking for a natural deodorant to smell fresh and clean, try Aesop’s Herbal Deodorant RollOn, boasting a fragrant herbal scent. The product, which contains zinc ricinoleate, targets the bad bacteria that produce the fetid odour to kill the smell. The alcohol- and aluminium-free deodorant also contains wasabi extract and a beautiful blend of essential oils to add a touch of elegance and reduce odour in a natural way. The oils include lavender, rosemary, sage and orange, as well as ginger extract. The bottles are made of brown glass, deflecting harmful UV rays and allowing the product to have less preservatives.

MURAD

Deep Relief Acne Treatment

This acne treatment, formulated with plant-derived phytosteriods, is designed for those with very uncomfortable acne. The liquid coats your skin with an invisible film-forming polymer that holds the coat in place. The amino acid technology, combined with the maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid, treats the bad bacteria on the skin that triggers this type of aggressive acne. If you suffer from pesky painful and swollen red bumps and need quick and long-term relief, why not try this treatment that is packed with actives and skin-healing ingredients, clinically proven to provide a clearer and healthier complexion and suitable for all skin types.

What We’re (Still) Talking About

WhatsApp! Need Downtime? Viral Flu Gone Viral A Wise Head On Young Shoulders?

WhatsApp took some downtime recently. Safe to say it gave those of us who are always glued to our screens some much needed albeit, we’re sure, unsolicited, time off too! The interesting part, however, is the disruption this technological glitch caused at workplaces. Since the rise of messenger platforms, emails have taken the backburner. Many a time, we prefer having

There’s been a sudden rise in people who are falling ill. A notorious viral flu seems to have us under siege. It’s not your regular aches and chills; that microbe used to be gentler, even polite enough never to outstay its welcome. Not this one. Even after a course of strong antibiotics, you feel like you’ve been hit by a truck.

That Rishi Sunak is the first Asian-origin Prime Minister of the U.K. is garnering mixed reactions. There’s also a set of people who believe he isn’t ready to assume such an important role because he’s just 42. Funny, considering we know numerous young men and women who achieved phenomenal success quite early in life – Romina Pourmokhtari, the

important conversations over chat rather than email, despite the latter being official. Even in our personal lives, gone are the days when we exchanged birthday or anniversary greetings over a call. Safe to say, technology continues to suck the warmth out of our relationships. We could go on but you’ll need to excuse us, our editor is texting us about a deadline from across our desks.

There are some who are joking about how the COVID virus hooked up with flu to produce a new variant –naughty, naughty! How else can you explain the jumpscares that victims are having when their taste buds die? Or that persistent tingle in your throat? Jokes apart, we hope you, like us, are staying safe – after all, health is wealth!

youngest ever Minister for Environment of Sweden, J.K. Rowling, Oprah Winfrey, the late Steve Jobs, Richard Branson of Virgin Group, Justin Bieber, Michael Jackson, Ricky Martin… Of course, we agree that a political career needs a certain level of maturity. In fact, no amount of talent can substitute for experience. But isn't it time to accept that ‘the old must make way for the new'?

ISLAND INSIDER

Cris Ramos

Marketing Manager, Foodvest Holding

How do you manage to communicate effectively on behalf of three such diverse brands as Fuddruckers, Caribou Coffee and Marble Slab Creamery?

There is always a professional relationship between the business, its customers and its clients. As a marketer, I try to maintain a balance of all three to effectively connect given the diversity of the brands I am handling by being up-to-date with current trends and understanding consumer behaviour. In addition to that, releasing creative materials that would easily capture the interest of our audience is important.

What is your favourite part of your job?

There’s a lot to be fond of being a modern marketer in the food and beverage sector. In the long run, this profession gets more creative and more technical at the same time. We start with cool ideas, inform

it with up-to-the-minute data, execute the materials and mind-blowing graphics with my amazing team and disseminate it to the world! How awesome is that?! Another favourite part is connecting and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds and various sectors. The collection of perspectives and ideas I'm exposed to on a daily basis is neverending. The adrenaline is always at its peak! Let's not forget the frequent foodtasting sessions. I personally think that is the best part!

What is the item on your menu you recommend visitors to try at each of your brand outlets and why?

One thing I always reassure visitors or generally any connection I come across is that items on our menu are made from scratch and freshly made every day. For

instance, our burgers at Fuddruckers are never frozen, premium cut 100% USDA, Certified Angus Beef, butchered and hand-rolled daily at our own butchery. We bake our own sesame-topped buns from scratch! Our Build Your Own Topping Bar is fresh produce that is being prepared on a daily basis with strict compliance. On the other hand, Caribou Coffee creates hand-crafted blends using 100% Arabica beans, 100% premium real chocolate and fresh milk, along with a variety of sugar-free syrups that delights our customers with less guilt! Caribou Coffee also follows the ‘daily fresh baked patisseries’ protocol at our own BOU Bakery. And lastly, Marble Slab Creamery is fresh homemade small batches of ice cream made daily. Nevertheless, I recommend trying out everything on the menu especially limited-time products we launch on a quarterly basis!