FACT Bahrain October 2017 by Fact ME

OCTOBER 2017 VOL 11. ISSUE 02 BD1

CITI FACT DINING AWARDS 2017 All the nominees revealed!

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CONTENTS

PAGE 8

PAGE 16

PAGE 21

FACT FINDS

LISTEN UP

CITI FACT DINING AWARDS 2017

PAGE 42

PAGE 47

PAGE 57

ROYAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

WEEKEND SPOTLIGHT

ISLAND RIDES

PAGE 65

PAGE 79

PAGE 83

FASHION FOCUS

ON THE MENU

FOODIE CORNER

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• THE EDITOR

FOOD IS EVERYTHING

“

“Eating good food is my favourite thing in the whole world. Nothing is more blissful."

've said it a million times before, and I'll say it again: Bahrain has one of the best food scenes in the entire region, if not, the world (I will stand by that statement always and forever!). And why is it so important to recognise the food and beverage industry here? Because, we're a small island country, that's also one of the hottest and most humid places on earth - it's, honestly, a miracle that we can get our hands on such fresh produce and high-quality cuisine. So, when people in the hospitality industry, both hotels and independent venues, go out of their way to please diners with good food, we want to acknowledge their efforts and reward their year-round dedication. And how do we do this? With the one and only annual CITI FACT Dining Awards, of course. The 2017 nominee list is out; turn to p21 and get ready to vote for all your favourites online at www.fact-magazine.com. We're hugely impressed with the original concepts, quality and continued high standards of both creative food ventures in places ike Adliya and Seef, as well as the crowd-pulling favourites in the country's hotels and malls. Congrats to everyone who's nominated and we'll see you in November for a lavish ceremony to announce the winners! Staying on the food track, this month's issue is PACKED full of dining deals and local events. Check out our Listen Up pages for all the best Halloween shindigs and Pinktober happenings, followed by our foodie picks this month, which include: Urban Dining at Nomad Eatery (p75); Indian cuisine legend Lanterns as the Culinary Spotlight (p79); a fabulous Arabian Nights offering at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel (p83); and one of the island's most beautiful hidden gems, Keizo at Al Areen Palace and Spa as our Dining Delights review. Your monthly agenda of what to do, where to eat out, events to mark in your diary and the regular fix of all things fashion, beauty, tech, motoring and more, is all scattered throughout the magazine for your enjoyment. Until next time, happy eating!☺

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

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FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition • OCTOBER 2017 VOLUME 11, ISSUE 02

DIRECTOR OMAR SHAHEEN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR PAULA LEAL GRAPHIC DESIGNER JYOTI RAWAT PHOTOGRAPHY SHOBIN JOSEPH REGIONAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR RAMI KHALIL PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD CONTRIBUTORS ALLY MAC ANGELA BEITZ GARETH WOODS GEORGINA JENNSEN MARIETTE CARSTENS YVONNE COLE ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0131 E-mail: rami@nansgroup.com PRINTED BY DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Bahrain cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. Bahrain Publishing W.L.L. Office 53, Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef. Ministry of Information. Subject Registration Number: CFB779

SAKSME.COM

STELLA McCARTNEY

FALL STARTS AT SAKS

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• CONNECT

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Combining all four editions of FACT in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai and Qatar, keep up with us on instagram for the best behindthe-scenes photos from monthly food shoots, the best local events and all things fun from the FACT team around the region. OCTOBER 2017 VOL 11. ISSUE 02 BD1

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

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CITI FACT DINING AWARDS 2017 All the nominees revealed!

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tweets Basma Mahmood @BASMAHMOOD I am so very happy that the waffle place at work is open and I can finally stress eat proper ice cream instead of sad barada ice cream :’)

FACT Bahrain 14,151 likes Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to. Send us a message – we love to hear from our readers!

Eman Sultan @EMANLATTE I want to live in an Ikea store, can I?

Nouf @NOUF_AHMADI Why can’t coffee be a substitute for water?

Enas Sis-tani @ENAS_SISTANI It saddens me that I can’t learn everything there is to learn in the world. So many subjects, so many books, not enough time though.

OUR FAVE FEATURE SEPTEMBER 2017 VOL 11. ISSUE 01 BD1

Mahmood Zeyad @MAHMOODZEYAD I’m in my pjs at this supermarket looking for chamomile tea and popcorn, this Thursday evening is gonna be lit.

UNPLUGGED

SOCIAL MEDIA 101

When was the last time you switched off from the digital world?

The most popular platforms that keep the online community addicted.

issuu.com FACT Bahrain 61,289 reads of the September issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and entertainment, in Bahrain.

• CITI FACT DINING AWARDS - P21 •

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• CHECK IT OUT

FACT FINDS

Happy Halloween! BAHRAIN'S TOP VENUES ARE GOING ALL-OUT FOR A SPOOK-TACULAR NIGHT!

ASIA DE CUBA - DIA DE MUERTOS Join in at ASIA de Cuba for Dia de Muertos, the one time of the year where the living and the dead mingle. The venue is capturing the spirit of the Mexican festival of the dead to throw the best Halloween event on the island. The entire place will be transformed into a vibrant celebration with colourful decorations and the entire team will be dressed in Dia de Muertos costumes meanwhile DJ Costa is going to make your soul move, dance, and celebrate being alive! Ladies pay BD10, gents pay BD15. The shindig goes down on October 27 from 10.30pm until late and the dress code is Mexican Skull/Sugar Skull Costume – your best Halloween attempt will cut it too. CALL 1771 1600 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

MEISEI - DIA DE LOS MUERTOS Halloween has never been more spooktactular! Enjoy four incredible nights of festive fun starting on October 31; All Hallows’ Eve with DJ Detour! Shake your bones to visiting artist Sarit as he electrifies the rooftop with his golden trumpet for all the ghosts and ghouls. A special scary salsa on November 1 will have you eerily tapping your feet. The Dia De Los Muertos finale parties will take place on November 2 and 3, featuring DJ Salime along with live entertainment from Sarit! Dress to impress as the best outfits get the chance to win a meal for two at Meisei! CALL 1700 7770 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

KLUB 360 - CIRCUS OF FREAKS The hottest club in town is inviting all you guys and guys to take the plunge and dress up in your best halloween costumes, with the party being the heaven and hell third edition. Think circus meets angels and devils, and get creative with those costumes. Taking place on October 27 and 28 from 9pm to 2am, ladies get free entry and gents pay BD15 per night or BD20 for both nights (a scarily good barfain!). DJ Essie De Vall from Madrid and DJ Westside from Bahrain will be on the decks to spin all your favourite tunes and spooky numbers. Get ready for pure revelry! CALL 1736 0300 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

AL AREEN PALACE AND SPA - MONSTER CITY PARTY Drive all the way to the heart of the desert and be part of a Monster City Party on October 31 from 8pm to 1am. Experience 8

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a night of thrills with party-goers at one of the biggest Halloween costume parties in town! Get your makeup done by a professional artist, enjoy delicious food and drinks, live entertainment and exciting activities in a scary, creative ambience. Let it be the most fun and creepiest night of your life. With makeup BD50, without makeup BD15 for singles and BD25 for couples. CALL 3605 6376 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Samak:

It means fish

FROM OUR FRESH SEAFOOD MARKET STRAIGHT TO YOUR PLATE Join us in the modern Arabesque surroundings of Boulevard Kitchen, every Thursday evening, and savour a delicious selection of seafood. Select your fish from ice trays filled with the freshest catch of the day, let us know how you’d like it cooked and we’ll serve it with the traditional accompaniments of your choice. AED 295 (with house beverages) AED 205 (with soft beverages) Thursdays from 7.00pm to 11.00pm

Tel: 800Dining Email: dine@emaar.com

/manzildowntown VIDA-hotels.com

When Home is Arabic fact magazine 9

• LISTEN UP

MÖVENPICK MAYHEM: OCTOBER HAPPENINGS Back for another year of revelry, celebrate The American Festival at the Movenpick Hotel Bahrain from October 12 to 27. There’s also a cool Halloween shindig - here are just some of the exciting offers and fun that awaits…

Wild West Weekend

Halloween Weekend

Dust off your cowboy boots and get ready for the ultimate wild west weekend on October 12 and 13. Enjoy an entertaining Thursday night out from 7pm to 11pm with cowboy rides, a live band and mechanic bull rides from just BD32 net. And don‘t miss the Friday Brunch from 12.30pm to 4pm, for explosi¬ve fun indoors with a live band performance to get you into the party mood. Priced from BD36 net.

The hotel is haunted and filled with great music, spooky cocktails and all-you-can-eat food. Join in for the Halloween-themed week¬end on October 26 and 27, priced at BD32 net for Thursday night out from 7pm to 11pm and BD36 net for Friday brunch from 12.30pm to 4pm. You’ll witness spooktacular food and drinks like never before!

Alcatraz San Fran Weekend

Reap the benefits of a good time with the Spooky Halloween Es¬cape package. For BD150 net, enjoy the Halloween Weekend Fri¬day Brunch at 12.30pm to 4pm or Thursday night out at 7pm to 11pm, followed by a restful night in the beautiful Superior Room, including a lavish breakfast buffet and a one-hour spa treatment, all for two people. ✤

You can break the chains but you can’t run away from a great week¬end at the themed Alcatraz Thursday night out from 7pm to 11pm and Friday brunch from 12.30pm to 4pm. This is a weekend no one can bail you out from. Priced at BD32 net for Thursday night out and BD36 net for Friday brunch. Prison costumes optional – it’s time to go all out on October 19 and 20.

Spooky Halloween Escape

GO: CALL 174 600 17 OR EMAIL HOTEL.BAHRAIN.FB@MOVENPICK.COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. CIRCLE M MEMBERS CAN ENJOY A 25 PER CENT DISCOUNT ON THURSDAY NIGHT OUT AND A 10 PER CENT DISCOUNT ON FRIDAY BRUNCH. 10

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• LISTEN UP

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN: OCTOBER TREATS Noor Lounge Indulge in the delectable pastries and take advantage of the Pastry & Cake Happy Hour offer. Purchase any cake or pastry displayed in our vitrine after 8pm and receive a 50 per cent discount during October and November. If burgers are more your thing try the Arabian Burger. Specially prepared with lamb and using tahini as the base Middle Eastern ingredient, the patty is placed between two charcoal-baked buns, giving it a uniquely Arabic flavour available during October and November, BD7 including half pint of selected beverage.

Elements Pool & Lounge Visit every Friday in October and November from noon to 4.30pm for an Asian-inspired a la carte menu, including Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Thai, Indonesian and Vietnamese flavors. Sultry cocktails and stellar line up of music with the best DJ beats in town or quench your thirst with the freshness of the menu selections from luxury homemade ice-tea cocktails and mocktails with best quality and taste of pure tea leafs available now until December, Sunday to Wednesday, 3pm to 12am and Thursday to Saturday, 12pm to 12am.

Legendz Steakhouse Enjoy a host of special offers at Legendz Steakhouse including the Fisherman’s Catch of The Day, so fresh you will be able to taste the sea. Indulge in a three-course menu introducing mouth-watering fish and seafood dishes prepared to your liking every Thursday from now until December, 6pm to 11pm. BD 5 with vino pairing. You can also take your love of meat to the next level with the four-course menu featuring your meat and seafood favourites with grape pairings every Tuesday, 7pm to 11pm for a cool BD25.

Downtown

Medzo Italian Restaurant

Get the girls together for Ladies Cocktails night at Downtown. Dance all night long end enjoy three selected drinks complimentary and 25 per cent discount on selected cocktails, every Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday or enjoy Gourmet Night from now until December where you can savour an a la carte dinner while listening to the sound of the masterful in-house band. All for a lovely BD10. ✤

Pizza lovers rejoice with Pizza Happy Hour. Sounds good to us! Take advantage of the Pizza Happy Hour offer from 6.30pm to 7.30pm and get a 50 per cent discount on any pizza of your choice from now until the end of November, from Sunday to Thursday.

GO: CALL 1720 8308 OR EMAIL RESTRES.ICBAHRAIN@IHG. COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

SUPERHEROES HALLOWEEN AT BUSHIDO Bushido Bahrain & FTV International announces an exclusive Halloween event to be held at Bushido Restaurant & Lounge this month. Get excited and ready to party hard!

GET READY FOR A SUPER extravagant Halloween bash to be held at Bushido in collaboration with Fashion TV Paris, the Fashion TV Supermodels, international DJ Pantelis from Greece and Ania J (the Fashion TV & D&G singer). Guests are requested to join the event dressed in their best superhero costume! This will be an incredible opportunity for Bahrain to discover the true FTV lifestyle experience, such as that enjoyed in numerous capital cities worldwide as during Cannes Film Festival. This is the idea of the concept hosted by FTV, sharing an audience dressed as Superheroes with A list artists, entertainers and supermodels from the best model agencies in Europe for which FTV is renowned, the events promise to raise the benchmark of glamorous entertainment in the region. Commencing with a FTV pre-dinner at Bushido restaurant, 14

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guests will have the opportunity to mingle with the models and to move through to the main floor, where from 11pm DJ Pantelis, Albert Mauri and FTV voice Ania J DJ will keep the party going well into the early hours. Don’t miss the costume room where you will be able to get a free Halloween make-up session and Fashion TV goodies. How much fun does that sound? ✤

GO: THE FTV HALLOWEEN PARTY TAKES PLACE ON OCTOBER 28 FROM 9PM UNTIL LATE. FREE ENTRY FOR LADIES FROM 9.30PM TO 10PM. GENTS PAY BD15 FOR ENTRY. DRESS CODE: SUPERHERO COSTUME. CALL 1758 3555 FOR RESERVATIONS AND EVENT TICKETS.

At Teatro Downtown

Tuesday Evenings

From BD15++

Downtown

Infinite Sushi Teatro Downtown knows how to turn Tuesday evenings into an infinite experience. Enjoy authentic Japanese delicacies and tempt your senses with the Unlimited Sushi Night, Tuesdays from 6 pm until 10 pm. Enjoy a free flow of your favorite Sushi throughout the evening from just BD15++, or BD22++ including Unlimited Drinks! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all you can eat like never before. For reservations and more information, please call +973 1311 9999 or email teatro.downtown@rotana.com *Price is subject to 10% service charge and 10% government levy. fact magazine

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

• LISTEN UP

THINK PINK: FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY Pink Boutique Located at the lobby alcove will be the Four Seasons treats that everyone craves! Prepared in the hotel’s kitchens, you can tuck into delicious delicacies like fresh baked goods, pink macaroons and even get your hands on some pink roses. Open from 11am to 9pm daily.

Pink Brunch The hotel’s exquisite Friday Brunch is given a pink overhaul on every Friday throughout October in Bahrain Bay Kitchen. An additional BD2 (non-taxable) per person will appear on the check as part of the donation towards Bahrain Breast Cancer Awareness Society. Brunch is priced at BD25++ with soft drinks and BD35++ with premium beverages.

Pink High Tea Take in the views of the Manama skyline from the floor-to-ceiling windows as you kick back, relax and indulge in a beautiful pink-themed afternoon tea at Bay View 16

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Lounge. An additional BD2 (non-taxable) per person will appear on the check as part of the donation towards Bahrain Breast Cancer Awareness Society. Served daily from 3pm to 9pm; priced at BD15++ per person or BD28++ for two guests.

Azure Party On October 27, a fabulous party by the pool will be getting your weekend started. Entry tickets: BD50 inclusive of two drinks. Table for six people: BD400 inclusive of one premium bottle of liquor. Super Cabana for eight people: BD700 inclusive of two bottles of premium liquor. From 9pm to 2am. Profit after all related expenses will be donated to Think Pink Bahrain.

Wolfgang Puck Outlets Wolfgang Puck’s popular lounges Blue Moon Lounge on the Hotel’s 50th floor and CUT Bar & Lounge are preparing a special pink mix Forbidden Kiss, which will be available for guests looking for

tasty drinks combined with scenic views of the city skyline throughout the month of October. BHD1 will be donated to Think Pink Bahrain after each Forbidden Kiss or Crackling Rosie (mocktail) sold in both outlets. Pastry Chef Pierre Chambon will prepare a signature pink dessert for each restaurant too – CUT and re/Asian Cuisine.

Pink Spa Specials The Spa will be offering the "Pink Spa Specials" including a donation of BD2 for every Chakra Essence Ritual and BD1 for every Chakra Massage Collection treatment booked during the month of October. Chakra Essence Rituals are 120 minutes for BD115 and the Chakra Massage Collection is 75-minute treatments for BD 80. ✤

GO: CALL 1711 5001 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

COFFEE CULTURE The Bahrain Coffee Championship (BCC) is a contest that all baristas and coffee aficionados need to know about. FACT caught up with founder and organiser Ali Mudara to learn more about this nationwide event.

Hi Ali! Tell us more about the roots of the Bahrain Coffee Championship - how did it begin? Bahrain has started to realize there is more to coffee than what we know. Baristas around the world are turning into popular characters in today’s culture, creating new concepts and ideas on how to consume coffee. It’s only natural to rate their efforts.

will be given 15 mins on the clock to prepare 3 drinks for the judges. An espresso, milk based drink and a signature drink which allows the imagination to run wild.

What are the benefits for baristas who decide to participate in the BCC? Baristas will gain recognition, exposure, and experience, which will aid their pursuit of perfection.

What are your future goals with the BCC - where do you aim for it to end up? The aim is for the championship to be watched by all coffee lovers. Educate and enhance creativity. See the barista as an essential part of a good cup of coffee.

How does the BCC bring something new and exciting to Bahrain's competition scene? Have you ever heard of a barista competition? Doesn’t it sound like it could be a cool new event to hit our shores? Take us through the championship from start to l finish - how many rounds are there and what should participants expect? There will be two rounds. Preliminary and finals. The spots are currently quite limited so we are asking establishments to enter their star barista to represent them in the comp. Each barista

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Have you got any tips for baristas entering the BCC? Perfect the basics. Do them well and you can’t go wrong.

For you, what makes the perfect cup of coffee? A perfect cup of coffee starts with the right bean, roasted correctly, brewed at the right temperature and served with a smile. After the championship, what opportunities/prizes await the winner? Establishing their status as a top level barista will help boost their career opportunities. Prizes are a surprise ;) ✤

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â&#x20AC;¢ SOCIETY

# P R I VAT E # TA S T I N G # AT # O T T O # I TA L I A N # R E S TA U R A N T 20

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2 0 1 7

It’s all about the food this month as we’ve got all the nominees for the 8th edition of our hugely popular Citi FACT Dining Awards. This year’s campaign will see the absolute best and all the public favourites battle it out to walk away with a coveted award in 33 categories. Here’s the list of nominees to give you a flavour of what’s to come… fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

CELEBRATING BAHRAIN’S FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY, FAC T WILL HOLD ITS ANNUAL DINING AWARDS FOR RESTAURANTS, CAFES, BARS AND LOUNGES, ACROSS THE COUNTRY, IN NOVEMBER 2017.

FORMAT

1 There will be 34 categories in the CITI FACT Dining Awards 2017, with two winners walking away with plaques in each category: the Best and the Favourite. 22

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The winner of the Best in each category will be selected by a panel of food bloggers, influencers and industry experts, based on a list of criteria and dining reviews.

The winner of the Favourite in each category will be selected through public voting online, on the FACT magazine website www.fact-magazine.com.

The lavish award ceremony will be held in November at a 5-star location where the winners will be announced. Winners will also be revealed in the December issue.

Sponsored by

Here we go again! ART Rotana returns with another amazing beach party, this time featuring live dance and DJ entertainment from Brazil. Come down and get into the carnival vibe on 3rd November from 2pm for BD20 per person including 2 free drinks. Buy your tickets from ART Rotana or call 16000111 ext 3112 for more info. Terms and conditions apply. Over 18 only. Right of admission reserved.

P. O. Box 50949, Amwaj Islands, Bahrain, T: +973 16000111, art.hotel@rotana.com fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

International •BAHARAT, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre •CAFÉ AMSTERDAM, Adliya •TRADER VIC’S, Seef •LINKS, Royal Golf Club •NOMAD EATERY, Seef •MY CAFÉ, Adliya •SILK’S, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain •CHOICES, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands

Fine-Dining Italian •PRIMAVERA, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain •LA PERGOLA, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa •FIAMMA, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa •MEDZO, InterContinental Regency Bahrain •VENTO, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay •CAFE ITALIA, Adliya

Casual Italian •ROSSO, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands •OTTO, Hamala Hills •FATTO, Seef •CUCINA ITALIANA, Juffair •AL FORNO, The Lagoon, Amwaj •CICO'S, Adliya

Mediterranean •LA VINOTECA BARCELONA, Adliya •NICOLE’S MEDITERRANEAN Restaurant & Lounge, Adliya •TORINO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Adliya •PREGO, Royal Golf Club •FLORENCE, Adliya •MASSO, Palace Boutique Hotel •CACAO LOUNGE & RESTAURANT, Riffa

Middle Eastern •PASHAWAT, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa •SAFFRON, Al Areen Palace & Spa •ZAHLE, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa •MARASH, Muharraq •FURN BISTRO & BAKERY, The Westin Bahrain City Centre •SAFFRON BY JENA, Muharraq/Manama •LUMEE SAAR KITCHEN, Saar 24

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

Lebanese •ABD EL WAHAB, Moda Mall •RAYES, Coral Bay •AL ABRAAJ, Various Locations •REEM AL BAWADI, Ramada Manama City Centre •ZATY ZAYTOON, Various Locations •CAFÉ BLANC, Seef •WAFI GOURMET, City Centre Bahrain

Iranian •TAKHT JAMSHEED, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa •ISFAHANI, Various Locations •GOLESTAN, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel •PERSIAN GARDEN, Seef

Turkish •KOSEBASI, City Centre Bahrain •NAMLI, Seef •TURKISH MASHAWI, Ramli Mall •BOLULU HASAN USTA BAHRAIN, Manama •LAYALI TURKIYE, Fateh Corniche

Seafood •LA MER, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa •SAMAK, Coral Bay •LA PERLE FISHMARKET, Novotel Al Dana Resort •THE FISH MARKET, Al Bander Hotel & Resort •WAVES, Crowne Plaza Bahrain •LE DOMAIN, The Domain Hotel & Spa 26

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

Japanese

South East Asian

•MEISEI, Adliya •BUSHIDO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Seef •MAKI, Moda Mall •SATO, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa •IMARI, The Domain Hotel & Spa •SUMO SUSHI & BENTO, Various Locations •RUKA, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

•WU ASIAN RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands •MONSOON, Adliya •KEIZO, Al Areen Palace & Spa •REPARTEE, Royal Golf Club •RE ASIAN CUISINE BY WOLFGANG PUCK, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay •TEATRO, Downtown Rotana

Chinese

•LANTERNS, Various Locations •NIRVANA, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain •SPICES, Crowne Plaza Bahrain •RASOI BY VINEET, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa •MIRCHI, Ramee International Hotel •ROTI BOTI, Al Areen Palace & Spa •COPPER CHIMNEY, Um Al Hassam

•CHINA GARDEN, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa •P.F. CHANG’S, City Centre Bahrain •DAVID’S STIR FRY CRAZY, Adliya •SOIE, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel •HONG KONG, Um Al Hassam 28

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Indian

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

North American

Mexican

•BENNIGAN’S, Al Safir Hotel •CHILI’S, Various Locations •TONY ROMA’S, Various Locations •RIC’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN, Juffair •IHOP, City Centre Bahrain

•MARGARITA MEXICANA, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa •SENOR PACO’S, Adliya •CASA MEXICANA, Adliya •CANTINA KAHLO, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain •CALEXICO, Adliya •EL GRINGO, Hamala

Latin American •BRASA DE BRAZIL, Seef Mall •ASIA DE CUBA, Adliya •BRAZIL RODIZIO GRILL & LOUNGE, Adliya •BOSSA NOVA, Adliya •BIG TEXAS BBQ AND WAFFLE HOUSE, Juffair 30

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Steakhouse •CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay •FLAMES STEAK & SEAFOOD, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands

•LEGENDZ STEAKHOUSE, InterContinental Regency Bahrain •PLUMS, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain •LE SAUVAGE, The Domain Hotel & Spa •THE MEAT CO., Adliya •THE FOUNDRY, Adliya

Burger Joint •SMASH BURGER, Seef •JASMI’S, Various Locations •GRUB SHACK, Hamala •SLIDER STATION, Adliya •MOOYAH, Riffa •BURGERLAND, Various Locations •THE BLOCK, Seef

Arabian Nights Come and discover Arabian cuisine with traditional dishes such as Lamb Chops with Vine Leaves, Lamb Ouzi, Bamia Bil Laham, Khodra Mahshi, Arabic cold mezzah and more. Every Thursday from 7:30 PM to 11:30 PM BHD 14.000++ per person Call +973 17533533 or book online at www.sheratonbahrain.com /sheratonbahrain

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

Al Fresco Dining

All-Day Dining

•MEISEI ROOFTOP, Adliya •CAFÉ AMSTERDAM & LA VINOTECA BARCELONA, Adliya •THAI OVERLOOK, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain •TRADER VIC’S, Seef •TAPAS, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa •VENTO POOLSIDE, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay •OLIVETO, Adliya •NOMAD EATERY, Seef •LANTERNS, Various Locations

•FLAVOURS ON 2, Downtown Rotana •AL SAFIR RESTAURANT, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel •SILK’S, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain •BAHRAIN BAY KITCHEN, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay •LE CHOCOLAT, Various Locations •SWISS CAFE, Swiss-Belhotel Seef •LEMON TREE, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

Casual Dining

•BUTCHER SHOP & GRILL, City Centre Bahrain •HEVEA CAFÉ, Al Aali Shopping Complex •VAPIANO, City Centre Bahrain •PAUL RESTAURANT & BAKERY, Seef Mall •WAGAMAMA, City Centre Bahrain •OISHI SUSHI, Juffair Mall •LUMEE SAAR KITCHEN, Saar Mall •PARKING, Seef Mall Muharraq

•NU ASIA, Seef •LUMEE STREET CAFÉ, Al Aali Shopping Complex •THE BLOCK, Seef •BAKER & SPICE, Al Aali Shopping Complex •NOMAD EATERY, Seef •CACAO LOUNGE & RESTAURANT, Riffa 32

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In-Mall

the American Festival Wild West Weekend - 12th and 13th October Dust off your cowboy boots and get ready for the ultimate wild west weekend. Enjoy an entertaining Thursday night out from 7pm - 11pm with cowboy rides, a live band and mechanic bull rides from just BHD 32 net. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;t miss our Friday Brunch from 12:30pm - 4pm, for explosive fun indoors with a live band performance from just BHD 36 net.

Alcatraz San Fran Weekend - 19th and 20th October You can break the chains but you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t run away from a great weekend at our themed Alcatraz Thursday night out from 7pm - 11pm and Friday brunch from 12:30pm - 4pm. This is a weekend no one can bail you out from. Priced at BHD 32 net for Thursday night out and BHD 36 net for Friday brunch. Prison costumes optional.

Halloween Weekend - 26th and 27th October The hotel is haunted and filled with great music, spooky cocktails and all-you-can-eat food. Join us for our Halloween-themed weekend priced at BHD 32 net for Thursday night out from 7pm - 11pm and BHD 36 net for Friday brunch from 12:30pm - 4pm. Reap the benefits of a good time with our Spooky Halloween Escape package. For BHD 150 net, enjoy our Halloween weekend brunch or Thursday night out. For bookings, please call +973 174 600 17 or email hotel.bahrain.fb@movenpick.com fact magazine

movenpick.com

• FACT DINING AWARDS

Bar •BOUDOIR, The Westin Bahrain City Centre •DOWNTOWN, InterContinental Regency Bahrain •CUT BAR & LOUNGE, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay •CELLAR 59 BAR, Lounge, Tapas, ART Rotana Amwaj Island •TRADER VIC’S, Seef •CALEXICO, Adliya •CIGAR LOUNGE, Gallery 21

Lounge •BLUE MOON LOUNGE, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay •BUSHIDO LOUNGE, Seef •ELEMENTS POOL & LOUNGE, InterContinental Regency Bahrain •TXOKO, The Domain Hotel & Spa •TORINO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Adliya •ALTO LOUNGE, Downtown Rotana •BIZARRE LOUNGE, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre

Shisha Lounge •AROMA CAFÉ, Seef •SIP & DIP, Elite Seef Residence •BUSHIDO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Seef •AL BINDAIRA CAFÉ, Seef •VERANDA CAFÉ, Adliya •KASBAH RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Seef •AMMAR TIMES CAFÉ, Adliya

Pub •FIDDLERS GREEN, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa •HARVESTERS, Crowne Plaza Bahrain •JJ’S IRISH RESTAURANT, Adliya •RED LIONS, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa •SHERLOCK HOLMES, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa 34

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

Café •TROUFA, Al Raya Mall •LE CHOCOLAT, Various Locations •DELILAH’S, Najibi Centre •CAFÉ LILOU, Various Locations •TILLY’S, Jawad Dome •GALLERY CAFÉ, Adliya •CAVALLI CAFÉ, Seef

Tea Room •BAY VIEW LOUNGE, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay •THE LOBBY LOUNGE, The RitzCarlton, Bahrain •TEA GARDEN, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa •THE TEA ROOM, Trousseau •ESPRESSAMENTE ILLY CAFÉ, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel •FURN ROTUNDA, The Westin Bahrain City Centre

Patisserie •CAKE BOUTIQUE, Seef •DELICE, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain •HAUTE CUPCAKES, Seef •PATISSERIE ART, ART Rotana Amwaj Island •MACARON, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa •JENA BAKERY, Muharraq •FIGS & OLIVES, The Domain Hotel & Spa •FURN BAKERY, The Westin Bahrain City Centre

Coffeehouse •COSTA COFFEE, Various Locations •STARBUCKS, Various Locations •ESQUIRES, Various Locations •GLORIA JEAN’S COFFEE, Various Locations •CARIBOU COFFEE, Various Locations •COLUMBUS CAFÉ & CO, Various Locations •JASMI’S COFFEE, Various Locations 36

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

Business Lunch

Ladies Night

•LANTERNS, Riffa •GOLESTAN, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel •NIRVANA, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain •BUSHIDO RESTAURANT, Seef •WAVES, Crowne Plaza Bahrain •FLAVOURS ON 2, Downtown Rotana •LINKS, Royal Golf Club

•MEISEI, Adliya •CELLAR 59, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands •AN NADA LOUNGE, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel •ASIA DE CUBA, Adliya •WAHINE TUESDAY, Trader Vics’s •MEZZANINE LOUNGE, The Westin Bahrain City Centre •TXOKO LOUNGE, The Domain Hotel & Spa

Themed Night •SUSHI & SAX, Downtown Rotana •IZAKAYA SUNDAYS, Bushido Restaurant & Lounge •SUSHI ART, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands •SEAFOOD NIGHT, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa •ASIAN NIGHT, Crowne Plaza Bahrain •LAYALI AL BAZERKAN, Elite Seef Residence •MEAT YOUR MATCH, InterContinental Regency Bahrain

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Value-For-Money •COCO’S, Adliya •HASH HOUSE, Adliya •AL ABRAAJ, Various Locations •EMMAWASH, Budaiya •SAFFRON BY JENA, Muharraq •FOODS AT HOME, Budaiya •TAKE AWAY, Seef •CHARCOAL GRILL, Manama

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

Friday Brunch •THE GRAND FRIDAY BRUNCH, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa •BAHRAIN BAY KITCHEN, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay •THE SWEETEST BRUNCH, Baharat, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre •MOVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN •LE DOMAIN [34] & LE SAUVAGE, The Domain Hotel & Spa

Family-Friendly Brunch •GULF GRAND BRUNCH, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa •FLAVOURS ON 2, Downtown Rotana •CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN •CHOCOHOLIC FRIDAY BRUNCH, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel •CHOICES, ART Rotana Amwaj Island

Independent Weekend Brunch •BUSHIDO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE •CAFÉ AMSTERDAM & LA VINOTECA BARCELONA •A LA CARTE BRUNCH, Royal Golf Club •CHINO LATINO BRUNCH, ASIA DE CUBA, Adliya

Newcomer •ASIA DE CUBA, Adliya •OTTO, Hamala Hills •BOSSA NOVA, Adliya •CALEXICO, Adliya •GALLERY CAFE, Adliya •CACAO LOUNGE & RESTAURANT, Riffa •BAKER & SPICE, Seef 40

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• LOCAL EVENTS

AHMED QASIM We have our very own homegrown talented musicians and singers joining us in the shape of Bahrain’s foremost jazz ensembles, musician Ahmed Qasim with his distinct vocal chords to caress our ear-drums. Top Gypsy Jazz ensemble Mohammed Rashid Trio ft. Banah are there to keep the event in full swing in addition to DJ and Producer Captain Tea whose groovy electronic jazz sets prove to be real crowd-pleasers.

SPEAKEASIES BAND It really is going to be an international affair, and, just so you lovely people truly are aware of the grand panache of talent that we’re dealing with, the likes of Speakeasies Band will be flown in from Greece who have won the International Songwriting Competition (ISC) for their award winning single “Black Swamp Village, to name just one of their many accolades.

Ahmed Qasim

Jazzing Up Bahrain The Bahrain Jazz Festival is the country's first international festival curated as a month- long celebration of jazz showcasing a multitude of exciting artists from around the world.

SWING ZAZOU Our senses will be further elevated with UK based Electro Swing dance band who are renowned in the industry for their unique style. They collide vintage 30s and 40s big band and Gypsy Swing with live-mixed beats - a foot-stomping recipe of soaring hot-swingin' licks, driving swing-scat vocals and vintage harmonies that creates their fully-charged yet irresistible sound.

CAPTAIN TEA Then we’ve got Captain Tea, an electronic musician and DJ with a penchant for genre bending, who loves to dish out funk, afrobeat, house, Latin, a sprinkling of jazz and a slice of techno for good measure. Captain Tea has released music under his moniker of The Nibblatron for the Portuguese Label Lovers and Lollypops as part of a remix compilation for The Flamingods. He is also a Red Bull Music Academy Bass Camp Alumni.

Swing Zazou

The Bahrain Jazz Fest will close with an open-air festival on October 6 at the Royal Golf Club congregating vibrant sounds of jazz, blues, swing, gypsy jazz, Ska and electro as the spotlight falls on five highly acclaimed international bands and three of Bahrain’s best jazz outfits. This is an allday extravaganza that will commence at 12noon to 10pm, hosted on the driving range of the Royal Golf Club, one of the region’s premier golf destinations. There is a fully secure monitored interactive kids’ area to allow all ages to fully immerse their senses in one shape or another. No need to worry about foraging for food, as there will be a wide range of F&B areas and food trucks to cater for those inevitable hunger pangs. 42

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Captain Tea

LOCAL EVENTS â&#x20AC;¢

Speakeasies Band fact magazine

Electric Swing

• LOCAL EVENTS

Ska Vengers

•Tickets priced at BD20 for adults, BD10 for kids and under six-year-olds go for free. •Tickets available online on Virgin Megastore and Red Bull Tickets – in addition to in store tickets available at Royal Golf Club, Virgin Megastore, Room 2 Rock. •Facebook Instagram / royaljazzfest | Website : www.royaljazzfest.com. •Festival Partners: EDB, Aggreko, Secure Services, Room 2 Rock, BMMI, Royal Golf Club, Clockwork, Virgin Megastore, Red Bull Bahrain, Malja Bahrain, Coda Jazz Lounge, Café Amsterdam, FACT, Ohlala magazine.

THE SKA VENGERS Widely considered to be one of the most exciting and relevant musical acts coming out of India, The Ska Vengers is a new Delhi based band who blend Ska rhythms with elements of dub, punk, jazz and rap to come up with a form of music that is refreshingly different, energetic and highly danceable.

DIHANN MOORE From the USA, we have the fiercely talented Dihann Moore promising you the ultimate Jazz experience as she captivates her audiences with her powerful sultry voice. ✤

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Dihann Moore

ELECTRIC SWING CIRCUS A full time, touring band on the international circuit will be joining this tantalising line-up in the form of Electric Swing Circus who are a sixpiece fusion of saucy 20s swing and stomping electro beats. They have an explosive sound that reverberates back through time. Fronted by a sassy female double-act, the ESC delivers a consistently dazzling show.

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â&#x20AC;¢ SOCIETY

# F R I D AY # G A R D E N # B R U N C H # AT # A R T # R O TA N A # A M WA J # I S L A N D S 46

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HOME COMFORTS THE EPITOME OF LUXURY AND COSINESS ALL IN ONE, THE MAJESTIC ARJAAN BY ROTANA MARRIES THE INTIMACY OF A WELCOMING APARTMENT WITH THE AESTHETICS OF A TOP-CL ASS HOTEL FOR A TRULY UNPARALLELED EXPERIENCE. FACT’S AANCHAL DUGGAL DISCOVERS THE PROPERT Y DURING A STAYCATION…

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• WEEKEND SPOTLIGHT

ffering authentic hospitality in a unique and contemporary setting, this lavish property is hospitality done just right. Conveniently located in the heart of the Busaiteen district opposite King Hamad University Hospital, Majestic Arjaan by Rotana has easy access to Sheikh Isa bin Salman Highway and the Saudi causeway as well as the major shopping malls. Minutes away from Bahrain International Airport, the apartment-hotel’s incredibly comfy beds are enough to cure all your travelling blues.

WEEKEND GOALS A notch above your traditional hotel, this modern property is all your staycation goals personified! As soon as you set foot inside the exquisitely designed interiors of the sprawling building, you know you’re in for an experience that demands to be remembered. After being greeted by some of the friendliest staff, we were swiftly checked in for a weekend of incredible warmth and ultimate indulgence. Boasting a total of 128 modern designed suites, the property offers studios as well as 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms developed as duplexes. As far as luxury apartments go, Majestic Arjaan certainly takes the cake. As we made our way into our supremely spacious home for the weekend, we were totally awestruck by the effortlessly chic décor of the duplex as well as the gorgeous view of the swimming pool from our balcony. Inviting you to experience a whole new world of convenience and comfort, the suites have all the trappings of a truly fulfilling stay. The plush furnishings of the duplex are as inviting as they are stunning, while all the modern amenities are enough to make you feel right at home in fine style. But what really had us oohing and aahing were the grand-scale marble bathrooms. 48

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WEEKEND SPOTLIGHT â&#x20AC;¢

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Majestic Arjaan by Rotana is as close to home as it gets with the added luxury benefits of space, relaxation and excellent service."

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WEEKEND SPOTLIGHT •

Everything from the beautiful contemporary layout to the splendid bathtub and rain showers, scream luxury. You can replenish and recreate in this relaxing yet super elegant sanctuary while still getting all your work done as each room is equipped with high-speed wireless internet. If you seek some entertainment, just flip through the multi-channel satellite TV offering a host of options that are enough to keep you occupied for the weekend. Apart from keeping you digitally connected, the rooms also offer a fully-equipped kitchen, 24-hour in room dining, complimentary tea and coffee-making facilities and so much more that make this accommodation so exclusive and enjoyable. A special shout-out to the big, fluffy beds that made sleep time so memorable, cushy clouds we all need and deserve!

FOOD ENVY Food being one of the biggest motivators in our lives, we knew it was time for us to tuck in! Offering delicacies from all over Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Ginger is Majestic Arjaan’s standalone all-day dining restaurant and it does not disappoint. An intimate dining experience in a casually elegant setting, Ginger offers an array of sumptuous food and beverage options to choose from. Be it a hearty breakfast, quick lunch or a late night craving, Ginger goes above and beyond to keep your tummy from grumbling! From the ultra-creamy and cheesy spaghetti to the mouthwatering mixed grill and butter chicken, the food was a treat to our taste buds as well as our eyes. Apart from some delish al fresco options, Ginger also offers an extensive selection of international cuisines with their daily breakfast buffet. Their tasty selections of freshly made doughnuts, croissants, omelettes and more are enough to start your mornings off right. For dessert, we highly recommend their humble yet AH-MAZING Brownie Sundaeserved piping hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The delightful combination of textures come together to create a perfect end to your meal. If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, make your way to the Aquarius Pool Café and gorge on

light bites and refreshing beverages as you soak in the impressive ambience.

FABULOUS FACILITIES While keeping up with your health and fitness can be extremely tricky during extensive bouts of travelling, Majestic Arjaan takes care of just that and so much more with their state-of-the-art recreational facilities. Their temperature- controlled outdoor swimming pool is a sight for sore eyes on an extremely hot day. With trained lifeguards ensuring the safety of patrons, the pool area is the perfect spot to indulge in a quick swim or relax and lounge around with your loved ones. If you’re in the mood for some extended me-time, give your body and mind some much needed R&R with their proficient steam and sauna rooms. Maintaining your workout routine is also super simple at Majestic Arjaan’s Bodylines, their well-equipped fitness centre. With experienced and professional instructors on hand, Bodylines is all set to dish out some extra motivation and guidance for a truly fulfilling workout sesh. Created with the needs of the weary traveller in mind, Majestic Arjaan by Rotana is armed with the latest hightech facilities, most up-to-date audiovisual equipment as well as impeccable personalised services that are designed to make your stay one of a kind. From being ideally located near all the main visitor attractions, to the international delicacies served with utmost care as well as the amazingly hospitable staff, the property leaves no stone unturned. Whether you’re travelling for business in the week or for leisure stays with family and friends on the weekend and the holidays, short term or long term, Majestic Arjaan by Rotana is as close to home as it gets with the added luxury benefits of space, relaxation and excellent service! ✤

CALL 1737 0000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN The Foreigner WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

After losing his daughter to a senseless act of politically motivated terrorism, a humble businessman is forced to encounter the past he has tried so hard to evade. The relentless search to find his daughter’s killers leads to a cat and mouse chase with a certain British government official and his elusive past.

DIRECTOR: Martin Campbell CAST: Jackie Chan, Pierce Brosnan

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

It’s “Bond vs Chan”, everyone! Martin Campbell’s latest offering sees the legendary action choreographer and martial artist facing off with everybody’s favourite sultry spy. An enticing cross between Liam Neeson’s Taken and Michael Winner’s Death Wish, the film is studded with some mind-blowing action and could be Campbell’s triumphant return to the big leagues. After the tragic demise of his daughter by a bomb set off by Irish terrorists, Quan (Jackie Chan) embarks on a revengefueled hunt to track down the names of the suspected bombers. Quan’s path to justice is marred with difficulties as British government official Hennessy (Pierce Brosnan), has some plans of his own. Chan’s dark and gritty role is a far cry from his usual comedic endeavours but is a change of pace that we can surely get behind! The Foreigner is a tale of contemplation and vengeance.

Highlights

“

Chan’s dark and gritty role is a far cry from his usual comedic endeavours but is a change of pace that we can surely get behind!

The Mountain Between Us WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

When their chartered plane crashes in the middle of nowhere, Dr. Ben Bass and photojournalist Alex Martin are left to fend for themselves in extremely unforgiving circumstances. As they realise help isn’t coming, it is up to them to forge a connection and survive the harsh elements.

– The Foreigner

DIRECTOR: Hany Abu-Assad CAST: Idris Elba, Kate Winslet

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Taking the age-old concept of “survival of the fittest” to a whole new level, this is a gorgeous tale of love born out of the most extreme circumstances. Directed by Oscar-nominated Dutch-Israeli filmmaker Hany Abu-Assad, the film sees Kate Winslet and Idris Elba wrestling against an unexpected connection as well as the vast and ruthless wilderness. Injured and stranded after a tragic plane crash atop the Colorado mountains, the two characters undertake a terrifying journey across hundreds of miles of unbearable terrain. Apart from some crazy good acting chops, the pair looks absolutely stunning on-screen together and is reason enough to watch this amazing adventure. 52

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• ENTERTAINMENT

FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

NON-FICTION

Bored and Brilliant By Manoush Zomorodi

ALT/INDIE-POP

DOUBLE DUTCHESS

By Fergie

After what feels like forever, the London Bridge hitmaker is ready to bless us with her muchawaited album. Double Dutchess, featuring Rick Ross and Nicki Minaj was released to an incredibly eager audience and we can’t say we’re disappointed. Incorporating a bit of pop, hip-hop, reggae, R&B and a whole lotta throwback, the album offers a lot of contrasts while also hinting at the singer’s personal life. Carrying a killer concept, M.I.L.F.$ is hands down the most polarising track on the album. In this age of generic, cookie-cutter pop, Fergie rapping about being a super-hot mom is downright revolutionary. While the track is definitely bold and ballsy, it definitely lacks the oomph of Glamorous or Pump It. If you’re a fan of the original Fergie flavour, You Already Know should be right up your alley. The song is a gentle reminder of Fergie’s legit pipes and features a nice infectious flow. While it isn’t fundamentally different to Fergie’s previous work, it definitely carries a fresh new vibe.

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COUNTRY/ POP

GEMINI

Get out of your digital dilemma with this excellent compilation of ideas explaining the connection between boredom and original thinking. The book presents a series of challenges that will help readers reevaluate their the importance of “doing nothing”, with a fresh take on our relationship with our devices and its affect on our lives.

By Macklemore Macklemore is embracing the solo route in his newest offering, Gemini. With a number of guest stars in tow, the Seattle MC’s first standalone album in twelve years sees a brand new approach to his music. Showcasing a different palette of sounds, textures and vibes, the singer has tried to infuse his own personal happiness into the music. As the singer unveiled the celebratory new song, Glorious, there was no doubt in our minds that the album is a true labour of love. With guest vocals from Skylar Grey and production from longtime collaborator Josh “Budo” Karp and Tyler Dopps, the song sees a rapid percussion and an energising piano loop. Complimented by Grey’s gospel-tinged hook, the song oozes endless positivity and motivation and is the only feel-good anthem you need this season!

FICTION

GOODBYE, VITAMIN By Rachel Khong When her fiancé decides to leave her for another woman, Ruth hesitatingly accepts her mother’s invitation to move back home. Seeing her father in the throes of dementia makes her reflect on her entire life. She decides to move in for a year to help out and what follows is a family’s journey through difficult and good times.

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# A L # H A D D A D # M O T O R S # L A U N C H E S # A L L-N E W # M E R C E D E S -B E N Z # S -C L A S S 56

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ISLAND RIDES â&#x20AC;¢

THE NEXT GENERATION

SUBARU XV

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• ISLAND RIDES

The creators at Subaru have finally installed their new Global Platform and it was worth the wait.

ubaru is one of many successful automobile manufacturers to come out of Japan. Although they are not the biggest, they certainly have their ardent fan base around the world. This is largely due to the brand’s massive success in the World Rally Championships over the years. They have however established a firm foothold in the SUV market and their popularity is increasing with each new creation they bring out. When the allnew Subaru XV reached the shores of Bahrain a couple of weeks ago, we at fact were treated to a test drive by Motorcity, the sole distributers of Subaru in the Kingdom. To be perfectly honest, the first moment we laid eyes on the allnew XV, it appeared to be very similar to its predecessor. It was only upon closer inspection did we realise just how much the wizards at Subaru have upgraded this model. For starters the rear lights have been extended into the tailgate and both the front and rear ends have been more aerodynamically designed, giving the car a sleeker appearance. The real change however is in their newly launched Global Platform. Subaru have spent massive amounts of money developing this new platform which is to underpin all of their models moving forward. The all-new XV is the second of their cars to receive this platform, the first being

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the Impreza. The overall look to the exterior being aesthetically pleasing, it was time to get behind the wheel. Slipping into the comfy front seating, we could immediately spot multiple changes in the cockpit from the previous model. Improvements on the sound system were apparent as were the increased number of air vents, very useful on those hot summer days. The storage bins were deeper and the layout generally felt a little more spacious. We found the new touchscreen to be a huge upgrade on the preceding system. It is more intuitive and very simple to navigate. It is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Another feature of the new XV is the extended wheel base, which has opened up the rear of the vehicle for passengers. There is plenty of leg and head room on offer and the seating is very comfortable. A spacious boot will allow for the easy transport of a family’s bags to and from the airport. Satisfied with the classy layout of the interior provided by Subaru, it was time to take to the tarmac and to get a true sense of what this small SUV had to offer. The steering wheel has been reduced in size and feels perfect in one’s hands. The Subaru XV is available in a 2.0 litre engine in 3 trim levels; and produces an output of 154 hp at 6,000 RPMs. This is an ample supply of power and the vehicle proved to handle well with plenty of grip.

ISLAND RIDES •

“

“THE COMBINATION OF THE ALL-NEW XV’S HANDSOME EXTERIOR, REFINED INTERIOR, EXCITING DRIVABILITY AND AMPLE SAFETY FEATURES, ENSURE ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL OFFERING FROM SUBARU.”

The new global platform makes the vehicle seem tighter and more solid on the roads. This completely overhauled engine allows for a maximum speed of 194 km/h. Beside from the exciting manner in which the car performed, it was the quietness of the journey that really captured our attention. The doors and windows have been thickened to ensure the car is well insulated, providing a very peaceful experience. Despite its quiet demeanour, this car is ready for trouble with the new X-Mode designed to increase drivability by optimising integrated control of the engine, the All-Wheel Drive system and the brakes. This provides additional control if tyres slip and lose traction on a slippery road surface. This was not the only safety feature adopted by the new Subaru XV. The advanced preventative safety system, EyeSight, acts as a ‘second pair of eyes’ for drivers by employing stereo colour camera technology to monitor the road and traffic ahead for potential hazards. It features six technologies to maximise safety: Precollision Breaking, Pre-collision Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure & Sway Warning, and Lead Vehicle Start Alert. The combination of the all-new XV’s handsome exterior, refined interior, exciting drivability and ample safety features, ensure another successful offering from Subaru. ✤

GO: CALL 1773 6222 OR VISIT WWW.MOTORCITY.COM.BH FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• MOTORING NEWS

GENESIS G70 EXPECTATIONS A new era for luxury motoring has dawned, with the official launch of the highly anticipated Genesis G70 luxury performance sedan. The G70 was unveiled in Seoul, before officially going on sale in Korea last month. Timing for its rollout in other markets will be announced soon. The Genesis G70 is an athletic sedan characterized by its graceful and dynamic exterior styling, elegant and intuitively designed interior, and choice of three different powertrains: a turbocharged 3.3-liter gasoline V6, a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline I4, and 2.2-liter I4 diesel. The G70 also incorporates numerous advanced driver assist systems, and a high level of connectivity with server-based

voice recognition technology using Kakao Corp’s artificial intelligence platform. The all-new G70 showcases the future direction of the Genesis brand’s design identity. Athletic elegance is represented in the exterior styling, as the car captures both beauty and tension, like an athlete poised to perform. Luc Donckerwolke, Head of Genesis Design, said, “At Genesis, we shape fascination and desire with the passion, dedication and talent from our designers. We modulated all parameters from the Genesis DNA to tailor a sports sedan. This challenge required the highest skills and know-how. The G70 is designed to captivate all senses with its sensuous and tensioned muscular volumes.” ✤

WWW.GENESIS.COM

HYUNDAI’S NEXTGEN FUEL CELL SUV Hyundai has offered an early glimpse of its next-generation fuel cell vehicle, ahead of the hydrogen-powered SUV’s official launch early next year. The near-production-ready prototype embodies Hyundai’s commitment to a new era for advanced eco-friendly vehicle development and futuristic design. The yet-to-be-named model will be Hyundai’s second commercially produced hydrogen model and uses the company’s fourth generation of hydrogen fuel cell technology. The vehicle, its capabilities and fuel cell technologies are an evolution of Hyundai’s global research, development and real-world evaluation programs, engineered with expertise honed through the world’s first commercial production of a fuel cell vehicle in 2013. “With exceptional efficiency, serene styling, and uncompromised performance, our next-generation fuel cell SUV is the true epitome of an eco-friendly vehicle of the future,” said Lee Ki-sang, Senior Vice President of Hyundai Group’s Eco Technology Center. “Hyundai Motor will take the lead in developing and producing green energy vehicles that would ultimately complement a nearzero emission society.” 60

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The new fuel cell model was developed on four key pillars that focus on fuel cell system efficiency, performance (maximum output), durability, and tank storage density. Hyundai will reveal the new hydrogen SUV early next year in Korea, while the official name will be announced in January at the 2018 CES. ✤

WWW.HYUNDAI.COM

AWARD WINNING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY

khalifashaheen

www.khalifashaheen.com

+973 17 593993

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• MOTORING NEWS

MOTORCITY’S HINO 500 SERIES Motorcity BSC, the sole distributor of HINO trucks in the Kingdom of Bahrain, unveiled the new HINO 500 Series at an exclusive VIP launch at the Gulf Hotel. The event was attended by key customers, as well as HINO Motors and Motorcity senior management. The New 500 Series, which leads the way towards the next generation of HINO technology, incorporates new approaches, including emotional elements throughout the development and manufacturing process. The aim is to enhance, not only the performance of each component, but also assembly precision and overall product quality. All HINO trucks are designed based on their development concept of “Quality, Durability and Reliability”. The new 500 series with 6x4 configuration reduced the big gap between Medium duty and Heavy duty truck and it will be of big benefit to cost conscious customers and for construction industry where higher capacity crane can be mounted on the new range. Motorcity BSC Senior General Manager Dr. Bijan Majidi said: “HINO’s upgraded structure features longer cargo space, as well as improved payload, which increases its capacity, allowing it to carry more cargo loads, and boosts its ability to tackle the different logistical needs of the customer. Also, with our newly expanded

service facilities in Ma’ameer, our trained service team is able to provide our customers with insightful knowledge of HINO technology and technical information to make the customer’s journey as efficient as possible.” ✤

WWW.MOTORCITY.COM.BH

ALL-NEW MERCEDES BENZ S-CLASS Al Haddad Motors the official distributor of Mercedes-Benz in the kingdom of Bahrain has unveiled the latest addition to the Mercedes-Benz Family, The all new S-Class. The Flagship of Mercedes-Benz that defines luxury. During the exciting launch Al Haddad Motors has also made an exciting announcement about their newly joined partnership with Majestic Cars. This is a first ever deal where the Authorized distributor has signed a corporate deal with Majestic Cars. The corporation done between the Al Haddad Motors and Majestic is of 20, S-Class, 8 E-Class and 1 GLS. Majestic is one of the leading corporate clients in Bahrain and is catering to the high end customers and will be the only company to have the latest S-Class in their fleet. The event was attend by Al Haddad Motors Management, Present were Mr.Jeff Cummings Financial Controller, Mr. Imran Sakhawat Ali the Marketing Manager of Al Haddad Motors, Mr. Bryan Logue the Sales Manager and Mr. Ebrahim AlSenan the Director of Majestic Cars & Mr. Najem AlSenan Also the Director of Majestic Cars 62

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The S-Class comes with many new inventions and has been proven to be the most desired luxury vehicles in the world. ✤

WWW.MERCEDESBENZME.COM/BAHRAIN

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Under the patronage of

His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa PRIME MINISTER OF THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

2017

BAHRAIN

٢٠١٧

The 26th Middle East International Jewellery & Watch Exhibition REGISTER ONLINE AT: www.jewelleryarabia.com

21 - 25 November 2017 Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

ORGANISERS

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OFFICIAL CARD ACQUIRER

VIP & REGISTRATION SPONSOR

GENERAL SPONSOR

EDUCATION & LABORATORY PROVIDER

H&M Studio AW17 LOOKING TO THE CRE ATIVITY AND E NE RGY OF NE W YORK CITY, STRE E T ME E TS SOPHISTICAT ION FOR H&M STUDIO AW1 7 . fact magazine

• FASHION FOCUS

WOMEN: Urban Sophistication Looking to the creativity and energy of New York City, street meets sophistication for H&M Studio Womenswear AW17. Artful prints mix effortlessly with menswear checks, while strong tailoring combines with feminine silhouettes for a powerful yet charming vibe. The collection reflects the needs of a modern woman’s wardrobe – sharp outerwear, soft dresses, flattering knits, versatile separates, statement accessories and a refined colour palette – but the frequent merging of different fabrics in a garment creates a more graphic structure and a new, fearless attitude. Dark navy shades, oversized parkas, long-length coats, a-line skirts and many other key style elements make up the collection.

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FASHION FOCUS •

MEN: Mountain Noir Scale the heights of the traditional and hyper-new with H&M Studio’s AW17 menswear collection. Mountaineering serves as the season’s muse, focusing on the thrilling adventure and toughness of the sport, as well as the necessary skill. Outerwear classics such as the bomber jacket and overcoat are reworked, tactile knits feature heavily, and functional details such as integrated belts, rubberised buttons and cord stoppers are contrasted by crisp, elegant tailoring - Technical yet polished, from the mountainside to the street. Black technical nylon material, bright purple cable-knit jumpers, brushed cotton shirts, slightly tapered tailored wool blend trousers and more stylish pieces make up the collection.

GO: SHOP H&M STUDIO AW17 FROM YOUR NEAREST H&M STORE. fact magazine

• FASHION FOCUS

SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM H&M’S AW17 COLLECTION FOR HER

FOR HIM

THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN H&M STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 68

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STELLA McCARTNEY INTRODUCES THE

SNEAKELYSE a new version of the popular Elyse platform shoe

For Autumn 2017, Stella McCartney introduces the Sneakelyse, a new version of the popular Elyse platform shoe. This season’s accessory collection perfectly complements the Stella woman’s wardrobe with a play on eclectic energy and unexpected detailing. This season the staple Elyse lace up shoe with a chunky platform wedge is given a bold and sporty twist. The new Sneakelyse is a hybrid of the statement Elyse blended with sneaker style and details. Light in weight the Sneakelyse has a new distinct stripe rubber sole, in a red and blue or black and white combination, in lieu of the Elyse’s original wooden wedge. On the heel’s tab is a signature logo detail. Available in two styles, a lace up and slip on, the Sneakelyse provides a fresh, playful and casual turn to the everyday shoe in white or black. EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE AT

City Centre Bahrain +973 17172000 fact magazine

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BEAUTY CHECKLIST •

BeautyEssentials AS THE HUMIDITY SETTLES, NEW SKINCARE AND MAKE UP IS NEEDED TO FRESHEN UP YOUR EVERY DAY LOOK!

Murad ADVANCED ACTIVE RADIANCE SERUM

Part of Murad’s Environmental Shield Line, the enhanced formula is clinically proven to improve brightness, clarity and radiance by 60% in less than one week. Visibly improve skin’s radiance, boost collagen production and protection against damage, all in one single step. Ideal for dark spots and hyper pigmentation!

Aesop VIOLET LEAF HAIR BALM Give your mane a muchneeded moisture boost! Enhanced with the subtle aroma of Violet Leaf Absolut, this exquisite shaping balm offers a botanical alternative to other harsh products while delivering volume and intense conditioning. Great for unruly and hard-to-manage hair, the balm is the Holy Grail for taming frizz and dryness in a jiffy!

Grown Alchemist AGE REPAIR MOISTURISER

Turn back the signs of aging with ingredients like Phytopeptide and White Tea extract! An advanced moisturiser, it noticeably restores and visibly reduces the depth and appearance of wrinkles. The White Tea improves elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while the Hyaluronic acid restores skin’s natural moisture.

Rodial PINK DIAMOND MASKS Rodial is here to make your search for the perfect sheet mask a whole lot easier. Infused with the magical properties of Grapefruit, Diamond powder and skin tightening peptides, the mask instantly brightens, tightens and lifts the contours of your face for a flawless complexion.

Nars PRECISION LIP LINER Take your classic matte lip to a new level of perfection! The laser-focus precision sharply defines with comfort with a clean, well-defined application for the matte lip of your dreams! Featuring a formula that saturates with budge-resistant colour, the highly pigmented formula glides on smoothly to create shape, definition and various lip-effects. Available in 26 gorgeous matte shades!

Becca LIGHT CHASER HIGHLIGHTER Get glowing for the Gods with this ultra-creamy and kaleidoscopic highlighter. It creates an unprecedented light-reflecting glow. Its transformative formula is the perfect blend of kaleidoscopic colour and light- giving you the perfect lit from within look. The unique highlighter shifts shades as you move to create hypnotising colour luminosity. Chase the light!

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GROOMING CHECKLIST •

Grooming Essentials THIS SEASON IS ALL ABOUT TAKING EXTRA CARE FROM HEAD-TO-TOE WITH PRODUCTS DESIGNED TO INSPIRE YOUR REGIME!

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Acqua Di Parma BATH AND SHOWER GEL Your bath time just got a whole lot fancier! Infused with nourishing coconut oil, the gentle formulation cleanses and purifies the skin while wheat protein leaves it feeling silky soft. The elegant timeless scent is filled with a fresh, luminous blend of natural ingredients and is the perfect pick-meup for lazy mornings.

Groom and nurture your beard on the regular with Beardbrand’s no-frills, fuss-free Tea Tree Beard Oil! Designed to be incredibly lightweight, the oil is made with only the finest natural blend of oils. Packed with the most crisp and fresh-smelling scent, the oil helps keep your beard conditioned and shiny without weighing it down or leaving it feeling greasy.

Klorane

Givenchy GENTLEMAN

Kyoku EXFOLIATING FACE WASH

TEA TREE BEARD OIL

CITRUS PULP CLARIFYING SHAMPOO Give your mane a much-needed thorough cleansing. Perfect for normal to oily hair, the purifying and clarifying shampoo gently removes excess build-up from hair and scalp. Enriched with amino acids, carbohydrates and flavonoids, it provides antioxidant, energising and clarifying properties for naturally healthy and shiny hair.

Speed up and maximise your morning routine with Kyoku’s Exfoliating Face Wash! This 3-in-1 product tones, nourishes and exfoliates all at once to reveal clean and rejuvenated skin. Formulated with vitamin A and E, it helps remove dead skin cells and ingrown hair while balancing out the skin’s PH level and promoting elasticity.

Beardbrand

Revel in the timeless version of olfactory masculinity with Givenchy’s new and modernised reinterpretation of Gentleman. With top notes of pear and cardamom, the woody-floral-fougere composition is an intoxicating blend of “power and sweetness”. The holy trinity of butch base notes along with sensual leather accord provides amazing longevity. The only fragrance you need this fall!

Art Naturals ARGAN OIL DAILY HAIR CONDITIONER If a natural yet effective product is what you desire, Art Naturals’ Argan Oil Daily Hair Conditioner should be right up your alley! Packed with an all-natural compound of organic ingredients, the conditioner is specially formulated to deliver an incredibly soft texture without leaving your hair looking overly greasy or oily. blemish-free complexion!

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

LANTERNS: Good Food Culture When someone says Lanterns restaurant in Bahrain, you immediately think Adliya or Budaiya. However, this foodie institution has opened up a beautiful venue on Amwaj Islands and, naturally, we couldn’t stay away. FACT’s Ally Mac went to check out the brand new location… fact magazine

• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

say it every time and I’ll say it again, Indian food really is mine and so many other people’s secret guilty pleasure. I love bold flavours and a little bit of heat, and what better place to get a fill of your favourite go-to cuisine than the legendary Lanterns restaurant. This time, it’s the chic new licensed venue on Amwaj Islands. Lanterns at this location has a very gourmet lounge feel – it’s instantly warm and inviting. The restaurant was buzzing and busy in both its beautiful dining area and the modern bar. Colourful ornaments, high ceilings, tables were set immaculately, cutlery gleaming and glasses shining. The head chef and waiter were seriously attentive and full of helpful suggestions, they are clearly proud of the food served at Lanterns (and rightly so). They have their favourites and were confident that we would love the dishes they suggested – let’s go! With tandoori and biryani dishes, meat and seafood options; vegetarian and traditional choices; and even more

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international dishes for those who want to join the party but aren’t keen on curry, Lanterns really caters to a wide clientele. After enjoying a couple of poppadums with an assortment of dips including tangy chutney, we begin the gastronomic expedition. First up; hazelnut crusted goats cheese with honey spiced pear and nutty bread. What a way to dress up goat’s cheese! This dish was the ultimate taste bud pleaser with every single bite. Next was the crispy calamari with fennel salt, cajun pepper crust and saffron aioli and doused in freshly squeezed lemon juice. We’ve never turned down calamari and we’re not about to do so now – it’s the dipping sauce that really takes this dish from good to absolutely incredible! Our appetite was well and truly whet for the main courses! The mixed grills arrived. chicken malai kebab, lamb seekh kebab, tandoori prawns, and fish and chicken tikka. The meat was both tender and full of flavour and the cucumber raita was the perfect lift of cooling deliciousness.

The tandoori prawns were beautifully seasoned. The prawns were huge and the rice was cooked to perfection, fluffy but retaining the slightest of bites. Dal Makhani: black lentil and red kidney beans cooked with butter cream and spices was another highlight. The dish came served in a traditional copper bowl – lovely cultural touch. The dal was full of aromas, precisely cooked and very generous on the portion. The spicing was perfect too – great for those who like a little fire and those who prefer things in between. Paneer Makhani: diced cottage cheese in buttery ginger, tomato sauce was complete food heaven. It was the softness of the cheese mixed with the flavourful curry that really made this dish special. The pudina paratha which was crispy and buttery was fantastic for scooping up the sauces! Every dish we tried was spiced differently and really gave us a new appreciation for this exotic and intricate cuisine. The curries here are not messy, greasy or soaked in

CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

too much ghee. In fact, they are refined plates and bowls of immaculate flavour. A curry’s best friend has to be a glass of Lassi, which was fabulous! Dessert as always seems like the impossible task. But dedicated to the end, we ordered Gulab Jamun. This is a traditional Indian dessert consisting of spongy-milky round balls soaked in a rose scented syrup. Though we didn’t know what to expect, we finished off every last spoonful with gusto. Lanterns is quite easily the best Indian restaurant in Bahrain. It’s clear that the food is made with love. Every dish considered, every ingredient important, every flavour authentic. It has a fun ambience, which works for either date night or just an evening out with friends. You’ll get superb service as part of the experience alongside the stunning food. Is there really anything else you could ask for? ✤

GO: VISIT LANTERNS ON AMWAJ ISLANDS. CALL 7777 0055 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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ON THE MENU •

Urban Dining at NOMAD It’s no secret that Nomad Urban Eatery in Seef has become one of the best go-to places for reliable, tasty food. With attention to detail and a healthy, wholesome approach to casual dining, this stunning venue has been thrilling guests since it opened. FACT sent Ally Mac to check out exactly what it is that makes Nomad Urban Eatery a holy grail for gastronomes… fact magazine

• ON THE MENU

omad Urban Eatery is a fascinating restaurant where exciting food, contemporary design-led interiors and a warm atmosphere come together. Attention to detail is everywhere you look, with homely accents to gaze at and carefully thought-out lighting which illuminates each table well. The food draws on global influences and seasonal ingredients to create stylish artisan dishes and I for one could not wait to sample the different plates. I instantly fell in love with the variety of choices and was overly pleased to be served a selection from the menu. The meal began with an array of nibbles. Chilli and lime edamame and a portion of garlic and herb butter bread balls. The first is a pairing made in heaven whilst the bread rolls were served with a side of melted butter which was poured by the waiter, and lived up to all of our foodie expectations. The Poke Salad Bowl is the perfect combo of sushi and salad dining. With brown rice, papaya and sesame lime dressing, spicy mayo and keta (on the side to free pour as you like), this is a refreshing dish that both healthy eaters and indulgent fans will appreciate. The poke bowls are originally from Hawaii and are full of fresh fish and colorful toppings. The bowl was presented beautifully and the overall taste was beautiful. I’ve not said this in a very long time, but I could truly and genuinely eat this poke bowl goodness EVERY DAY. The Steamed Bao Bun is another quick addicion. I tried the smoked beef short rib with bbq sauce and red chilli and the soft shell crab with green papaya salad, chilli and lime mayo. Both were melt in your mouth delicious. The taste is something you MUST experience for yourself – and a complete sensory treat for the taste buds. Next up was the Smoked Nomad Burger with cheese and a side of fries! This is hands down the best beef burger I have eaten in Bahrain, as the meat is perfectly cooked and the flavour excellent. I had never tried a Quinoa Falafel Burger, but it's a pleasantly delightful combo! A side of crispy kale chips and hot sauce was prettily presented on a wooden board. It was just the right amount of crispiness with oodles of bursting flavours – a fabulous option for vegetarians. The Baked Mediterranean Hammour was divine! Served like a gift, wrapped up in black cous cous, mussels, kalamata olives, roasted tomato with cumin and dill! WHAT.A.DISH. We finished it off with real gusto! The finale was a duo of sweet treats! Russian honey cake and Tiramisu. The Russian cake was a

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ON THE MENU •

GO: VISIT NOMAD URBAN EATERY AT THE COURTYARD SEEF DISTRICT. CALL 1700 0330 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. NOMADEATERY

definite wow on striking appearance and on taste. Paper thin layers of pastry and cream filling, the textures of each element exactly as they should be, this is a really accomplished dessert. The tiramisu transported me back to Italy within seconds. Mascarpone cream, soaked coffee sponge and dark chocolate shavings… incredibly indulgent. It was so nice to see a restaurant aiming high on culinary ambition. The food is without doubt the reason to come. It’s delicious, creative and well put together. The service was excellent, the staff attentive and friendly the standard top-notch throughout. Next dinner plan – you need to choose Nomad! ✤

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It was so nice to see a restaurant aiming high on culinary ambition."

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FOODIE CORNER â&#x20AC;¢

ARABIAN NIGHTS

FACT's Layal Mahmoud visits the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel on a beautiful foodie night for a taste of the delicious and inviting traditional Arabic buffet.

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• FOODIE CORNER

ith the fast-changing advancement in our eating habits and the revolution of culinary methods, it’s difficult to get back to basics and enjoy wholesome foods. However, one five star hotel on the island is reconnecting diners with rich Middle Eastern roots through its Arabian Nights dining deal, every Thursday of the week. A fairly large buffet brings all the key dishes you will most likely find on the table of every Arabic family dinner; the soup is a must to warm up your stomach and prepare it to welcome the rainbow of incoming flavours. We like to match our soup with a range of hot mezze like kebbeh or samboosa. An array of salads and cold mezze; the internationally famous hummous, moutabbal, tabbouleh, and our taste crush – mukhalal salad – a tangy cabbage-based pickles salad that works as a great complement to your grill. Speaking of grills, be prepared to satisfy all your cravings. A live grill station will prepare your choice of meat skewers, chicken skewers, lamb chops, or fish. More than 10 main dishes that change from week to week will also be available to curb your hunger. The oversized Qouzi dish with a roasted whole lamb in the middle garnished with French fries and smoky fried nuts is, with no doubt, the centre of all the love for food at this culinary celebration. A long list of fancy and sophisticated desserts expertly gathered from all around the globe awaits you to explore. Kids are going to love their little dessert corner SO much too, with donuts and candy, and if your child doesn't have much of a sweet tooth, a freshly popped popcorn bowl will keep the little ones happy for a long while. Fresh fruits and an extended collection of dates are also on the menu of this luxurious homely buffet. And, of course,

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Word of advice: go with a big appetite and a thirst for exquisite flavours..."

FOODIE CORNER •

a collection of soft drinks, chilled fruit juice, and vino are all free flowing throughout the meal. To top that off, Arabian Nights will play host to two Bahraini musicians who will entertain throughout the evening, creating an utmost traditional Arabian atmosphere. Word of advice: go with a big appetite and a thirst for exquisite flavours, and the next time you miss the warm, rich and aromatic tastes of Arabic cuisine, make Sheraton Bahrain Hotel your onestop food pick on a Thursday Night. We’ll surely be returning very soon! ✤

GO: ARABIAN NIGHTS TAKES PLACE EVERY THURSDAY AT THE SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL. CALL 1753 3533 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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DINING DELIGHTS â&#x20AC;¢

Dining Delights at KEIZO The FACT tickles their taste buds with Far Eastern flavours and epicurean eats at Keizo, Al Areen Palace and Spa.

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• DINING DELIGHTS

ruly living up to its name, Al Areen Palace and Spa is a spectacular sight without even setting foot in to the gorgeous Arabian architectural mastery. Providing you with space for relaxation and privacy, the hotel grounds mirror Arabian elegance from the swaying palm trees to the design of the villas. Upon setting foot in this luxurious and serene place, it is almost hard to miss the fact that Al Areen emulates an aura of magical and mystical far away Arabian lands. As our car was swiftly valeted we were escorted on to a golf-buggy and chauffeured to Keizo, a romantic setting with picturesque views of the lake alongside the whole resort. This was a blessing in disguise on account of my new heels, but, more so because we were able to take in the surroundings where everything is decorated with a delicate flourish of lights. The interior of Keizo is full of grandeur and is simply mesmerising. We were warmly welcomed by our host Rio for the evening who was very attentive to our dietary needs. By dietary needs I mean that we are on the see-food diet, where we see food and we just HAVE to demolish it. Passionfruit mojitos were served and every sip acted as the perfect palate cleanser. After drooling over the menu we decided on some Mixed Dim Sum alongside Crispy Shrimp Maki and Rum Maki for our appetisers. Our main dishes consisted of Crispy Duck and Prawns with a tasty hot garlic sauce. The ultimate crescendo was the marinated Grilled Lobster that was tossed with fresh vegetables. We awed over the presentation of every single dish that was brought to our table, and keeping with the restaurant theme each meal was served Japanese-style. Luckily for us everything was bursting

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We awed over the presentation of every single dish that was brought to our table, and keeping with the restaurant theme each meal was served Japanese style.”

DINING DELIGHTS •

with flavours and the Sous Chef, Joel even came out to our table to ensure that everything was to our liking. As our eyes are greedier than our bellies we further indulged in some crème brulee and mango cheesecake that was the perfect finish to an outstanding dining experience. Ideal for a romantic evening, date night, anniversary celebration or even a good catch up with friends over exquisite food, Keizo is one special venue that remains a hidden gem on Bahrain’s culinary scene. That’s not all, as the divine gastronomic selection at Al Areen means that you can indulge in Indian, Bahraini, Khaleeji and even Italian restaurants, and the lucky ones staying in the lush villas can enjoy the wide variety of food from the in-villa dining service that offers Middle Eastern, South Asian, and Western meals. An absolute go-to destination for any special occasion… even if that is for the occasion of ‘just because’ – we never say no to good food, and this is one place that certainly has it all! ✤

GO: VISIT KEIZO AT AL AREEN PALACE AND SPA. CALL 1784 5000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• OCTOBER DINING

TURKISH FOOD FESTIVAL WHEN: OCTOBER 30 TO NOVEMBER 3 Celebrate the Turkish cuisine, culture, and delicacies in Sofitel Bahrain’s very special gastronomic affair, the Turkish Food Festival. Saraya Restaurant will host a grand Turkish brunch and dinner buffet featuring delicious fare from Turkey along with live entertainment and much more! The one-week culinary event ends with the final Turkish themed highlight – something you don’t want to miss.

BBQ BEACH BAR WHEN: EVERY THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, 7PM TO 10PM Enjoy live barbeque right by the private beach with your favourite beverage. Chill out music by the mystery guest DJ and a relaxed ambiance to set the mood for an epic weekend, will have you feeling good. Join in for the very BBQ Beach Bar experience, every Thursday and Friday from 7pm onward and have fun at the island's most elegant cookout party. The event is free to access for in house hotel guests, anyone with the all day pool and beach pass and club members. The pool and beach pass is available for BD20 on weekdays and BD30 on weekends.

Dining Deals at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa October is going to be another food-filled month at one of our favourite hotel’s…

GRAND FRIDAY BRUNCH WHEN: 12.30PM TO 4PM Add a touch of international flavour to your Friday with Sofitel Bahrain’s legendary Grand Friday Brunch. Take your taste buds on an unforgettable culinary journey with award-winning cuisines from Saraya, Fiamma and Wok restaurants, complete with live cooking stations, live entertainment by the Cuban band, timeliness and a special kids corner to keep the little guests entertained. All brunch guests enjoy complimentary access to the pool and beach facilities from 4pm until sunset. BD36 net per person with soft beverages; BD40 net per person with selected beverages; BD60 net per person with bubbly; kids aged six and under eat for free, whilst six to 12-year-olds get 50 per cent off. 90

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CUBAN NIGHT WHEN: EVERY TUESDAY, 10PM TO 1AM Vamos a bailar! Dance the night away to the exotic Cuban tunes as you’re taken on a melodic trip to Havana with the star Cuban band, Timeless. The seaside restaurant, Tapas is where you can be tapping to the rhythms of Latin beats while sipping on refreshing mojitos and savouring some mouthwatering tapas.

OYSTER AFFAIRS WHEN: OCTOBER 19 TO 28 Fall in love all over again with a very special Oyster Affairs world class experience and indulge in freshly prepared oysters coupled with white asparagus. Available at La Mer restaurant, with a magnificent view of the Arabian Sea, you can enjoy the delightful five course set menu for BD22 net or pair it with a top selection of vino for BD28 net. ✤

GO: CALL 1763 6363 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

OCTOBER DINING •

Terrorific Halloween Beach Party Here’s how the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is doing the spookiest night of the year… Halloween is upon us and you know there’s only one wonderland where you can celebrate in style and class, Sofitel Bahrain’s Annual Halloween Beach Party. Bring to life your favorite horror movie character and indulge in a night full of fright and terror on October 27 for the island’s favorite and most anticipated Halloween beach party. Located right by the Sofitel’s private, mystical beach, you and your friends are in for a hair-raising night, full of bewitching entertainment, top tunes and a grand food buffet along with some soul quenching beverages. You can buy your early bird tickets online before the 15th of October and avail a spooky 20% discount and don’t forget to check out Sofitel Bahrain’s special rooms promotion with tickets. Dance along with our Cuban band, Timeless, as they hypnotize you with their melodies before surrendering to the Halloween fright night’s mystery guest DJ’s tunes that will keep you grooving to the beat for a night full of funfilled memories and some eerie surprises! Enjoy the scary beachside experience with a very special selection of food buffet prepared for you with very mysterious Halloween

twists by our award winning team of zombie chefs. Attend the haunted beach event from 6pm onward for BD 38 per person inclusive of unlimited drinks (from 6pm – 9pm) and open food buffet. If you live to tell the tale, you can continue the freak show in Sofitel Bahrain’s Tapas Restaurant for the epic after party with the resident DJ from midnight until 02.00am, you enjoy a spectacular moonlit view of the Arabian Sea. Known as a piece of heaven in the desert, this world-class establishment takes pride in its state-of-the-art facilities along with a host of family-friendly activities and awardwinning restaurants that ensure you and your loved ones an experience in paradise. The property also features the luxurious and only Thalassa Sea & Spa in the Middle East. ✤

GO: CALL 1763 6363 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• OCTOBER DINING

Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre THE SWEETEST BRUNCH Awarded best brunch by popular vote at the Citi FACT Awards, this Friday fiesta is foodie heaven. Discover it for yourself, and be prepared to indulge in a sensorial and savoury experience for a cool BD26 net including soft drinks and water, or BD38 net including selected free flow beverages. Live music from the vibrant South African Duo, The Duex Sons will keep the happy vibes going. Book for 10 + people, and receive 20% discount. Discounted access to swimming pool is also available. From 12.30pm to 4pm. BAHARAT BUFFETS A delicious Business Lunch buffet is served daily from 12.30pm to 4pm for BD12++. You can opt fora soup and unlimited trips to the salad buffet for BD5.5++. Kids aged six to 12 dine at half price. ClaWs seafood buffet is on every Thursday evening from 6.30pm to 11pm. Priced at BD24 net including soft drink and water, or BD29 net including selected free flow. If you love a good shrimp dish or want your fix of fresh fish – this is where to get it. BBQ NIGHT The newest themed foodie evening will let you indulge in signature ribs along with an array of meaty creations cooked to 92

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perfection and paired with thirst-quenching hops and cocktails. BD26 net including soft drink and water, BD29 net including selected free flow of beverages. Every Wednesday from 6.30pm to 11pm. PINKTOBER Come dressed in pink on October 13 to Baharat and enjoy the Think Pink Friday Brunch for a cool BD26 net including soft drinks and water, or BD38 net including selected free flow beverages. Live music from the vibrant South African Duo, The Duex Sons will leave you with all the happy feels. DIWALI Enjoy the Diwali Festive Season at Baharat, running from October 16 to 21. There’s a Diwali Special lunch and dinner at BD18 net. Enjoy Live Indian music from a band during dinner. Experience the Diwali Friday Brunch on October 20 for BD26 net including soft drinks and water, or BD38 net including selected free flow beverages. BIZARRE LOUNGE A sparkling and sophisticated happy hour, with half price on selected 'sparkling specials' featuring twists on the classics. Daily from 6pm to 8pm. ✤

GO: CALL 1717 1441 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

OCTOBER DINING •

The Westin Bahrain City Centre BAKERY FUN Junior Bakers, bring along your little ones to Furn every Saturday from 9am to 10am, where they get a complimentary session of a hands-on baking experience, and uncovering their hidden talents with the Master Bakers. They will supervise your minis whilst you unwind, head for a bit of shopping or do your thing. Kids will have fun breaking eggs, making dough, rolling out and shaping, and ﬁnally sitting down to enjoy eating what they just baked! Optional Kids Breakfast Menu at BD2++ for any bakery items and water/juice. Suitable for kids aged three to 12-years-old. MAGICAL MILKSHAKES Indulge in a mouthwatering selection of signature milkshakes all day and every day at Furn Bakery. Enjoy the Unique ambience of the Rotunda and the specials in the Furn Bakery display. FURN BAKERY Indulge in a beautiful Arabic afternoon tea every day at Furn Bakery from 3pm to 6pm. Enjoy the unique ambience of the Rotunda and savour the specials in the Furn Bakery display. You can also enjoy the newly introduced Arabic Coffee Service Design with dates at BD 3++ MEZZANINE LOUNGE Retro Night will take you back every Thursday from 8pm onwards. Featuring live music by the amazing South African Duo, The Duex Sons, you can enjoy retro themed cocktails and bites to keep your taste buds intrigued. A very elegant English Afternoon Tea is available to savour from 3pm to 6pm for just BD12++. There’s delicious scones, gorgeous sandwiches and yummy desserts plus a big cup of your chosen hot beverage. Ladies Night at Mezzanine Lounge takes place every Wednesday from 8pm to 10pm. Ladies will enjoy four complimentary cocktails in the company of their dearest bffs. FURN BISTRO Experience the unique Meter Mix grill at the Furn Bistro for lunch. From 12.30pm to 4pm and dinner from 6.30pm to 11pm all throughout October. You’ll get lamb chops, chicken kofta, lamb kofta, shish tawook, and lamb tikka – the quantity based on the amount of people sharing. ✤

GO: CALL 1717 1441 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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PEP TALK •

Five Toddler-Friendly Foods Ally Mac reveals some of the healthy treats that will get your little one’s taste buds dancing! into a pasta dish and simply for them to experiment with foods and flavours. As I am half Greek… I can highly recommend Kalamata juicy O’s!

AVOCADO It’s the millennials’ mine and my oneyear-old’s most loved fruit, and the good news is lots of little people rather like it too. Whether it’s spread on toast, mashed up with some finely chopped tomato and lime juice as a mini guac for dipping, or simply sliced into baby-led weaning friendly chunks. If your toddler isn’t overly keen on it straight up, you could always add some in a smoothie for a quick and easy way of getting those delicious essentially fatty acids, potassium and protein into them. OLIVES Big NOTE here, I am not suggesting you give your little one an entire olive, which would be a major choking hazard, but children may surprise you by happily munching on some chopped pieces. Toddlers prefer strong flavours to traditional, bland nursery food, so the rich taste of many olives could be right up their street. They’re probably a bit salty to start giving as a snack as a matter of routine, but a great way to inject taste

SUSHI It’s best to skip the raw fish element of sushi until your toddler is around three or four-years-old, and their immune system is up to scratch, but many young taste buds get super excited about veggie and rice-based California rolls. Mini hands can easily scoop up sushi rolls, or they might enjoy playing around with chopsticks too. Just keep them away from the wasabi! CURRY It’s up there as one of the world’s favourite dishes, so why wouldn’t your little customer enjoy a curry too? Homemade, mild curries using a range of aromatic spices (not salt and sugar laden jars or pastes) should turn out to be a big hit. Batch cooking a big pot of comforting dhal is a huge hit in our home. I serve it up with the important extras like chapatti and cooling natural yoghurt. SEAFOOD A lot of adults are fussy about seafood and now is the time to introduce your little ones to their fishy friends to prevent excluding this food group down the line. Seafood is a fantastic source of lean protein and different varieties provide everything from zinc to omega 3, making it a nutrition packed choice. Try popular local fish like Hammour, Safi & Faska. A fish pie of mixed fish and prawns with peas is a winner with us.

GO: FOR MORE TIPS, TRICKS AND HEALTHY RECIPES FOR YOUR BABY, KEEP UP WITH ALLY ON INSTAGRAM @ALLYSKITCHENSTORIES AND ONLINE AT WWW. ALLYSKITCHENSTORIES.COM. fact magazine

• PEP TALK

Change: Mind Over Matter

Eating: We Do It Best in Bahrain

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

Georgina Jennsen is the lady behind the popular lifestyle blog, blonde in bahrain. a social media influencer who loves all things luxurious.

Recently I saw a quote by George Bernard Shaw. "Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything." Over the past few weeks I’ve had various conversations with a few people who want to make changes to their lives; one was afraid of what other people would think and say and the other went for it. One was a new mother who had lost all her confidence since she got married and gained weight and then gained baby weight. Once she decided to do something about it, negative voices around her started to put doubt in her mind, asking “why do you need to lose weight? You look fine as you are and you should stop the personal training thing.” The second was a young woman unhappy with her life, has lots of plans but is afraid to act on them as she doesn’t want to offend anyone. I asked: “so are you going to spend the next 60 years being unhappy to please others?” It’s clear the negative people in the new mother’s life are the ones with the problem as they are intimidated by her lifestyle action and the physical change in her which has also given her more confidence which shows up their own flaws and insecurities. Unfortunately, the unhappy young woman has resolved herself to waiting for the people around her to change before she can move on with her life. ✤

If there's one thing we do better than most on our amazing little island, it's eating. We really are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining in Bahrain. From family-friendly budget brunches to fabulously fine dining delights, we happily have them all. And just to ensure that the diet doesn't start yet, I've found three more eateries that I think you're going to enjoy. The first is Otto. It's Italian, obvs, and tucked neatly away in the rapidly expanding area known as Hamala Hills. It's bright and buzzy, with its food prep on full display. Many of the ingredients are flown in specially from Italy, which definitely adds to its authenticity. Oh, and the lasagne is totally delish. And then there's the funky 55 Old Street. You can't miss it - just look for the beat up VW Beetle permanently parked out front. The interior is right on trend, with marble/wooden combo tables, copper accents and a lush vertical garden. But the best thing about this cool cafe has got to be the cakes, baked to perfection by Mahmood Janahi. Be sure to leave enough space after lunch to treat yourself. I promise you, resistance is useless. Finally, there's the Indoor Garden Friday brunch at Choices Terrace, Art Rotana. Like most brunches in Bahrain there's more food than you can ever eat in a lifetime, and free flowing drinks. But unlike many other brunches the floral decor is fun, the band is fab, and you get lovely views of Amwaj. Happy dining, and don't forget - diet starts tomorrow! xx ✤

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

GO: Keep up with Georgina at www.blondeinbahrain.com and on instagram @blondeinbahrain.

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PEP TALK •

Are You Born With It?

Conscious Parenting and Good Food

Aanchal Duggal is an avid bibliophile and fashion enthusiast trying to make a living out of doing what she loves. Aanchal is new to Bahrain & exploring!

Mariette Carstens is a Holistic Behaviour Therapist and Natural Health Practitioner who applies a conscious, empowering parenting model to guide families.

The fact that leadership in itself is an art and not a science is a widely contested notion in recent times. It has been heavily debated whether it occurs as an inherent quality and you’re simply born with it, or you acquire leadership through hard work and skills. Irrespective of your stance on this recurring debate, the rising number of successful entrepreneurial ventures does paint a pretty convincing picture. While entrepreneurship is all about taking risks and making it big in an intensely competitive world, what makes these bigwigs so special is their innate need for independence and control in every aspect of their lives. That does make them pretty special if you ask me! While if you’re someone who doesn’t hold this penchant for independence, you may not be able to get as far as your more in control counterparts. That being said, while confidence is certainly key to heading a successful enterprise, you don’t necessarily have to be born with it. Whether you’re on the same page with these worldly intellectuals or not, there’s no denying the fact that there are definitely no black and white answers here. As for me, I’m totally on the fence. Just like everyone with an internal locus of control may not be able to crack the code to success, similarly someone with all the resources in the world may not be able to put them to their best use. I guess if we knew how to reach the ranks of these high-flyers, everyone would be doing it. ✤

When you have a fussy or picky eater and dinner time becomes about screaming, throwing and crying, it's enough to make even the strongest give in or even the most patient parent loose their temper. We all know how important it is to eat well, to be well. Children are developing physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually at an incredible pace. They need good fuel to develop immunity to fight off infections and disease but also could have numerous food intolerances. As a conscious parent all these factors can be very overwhelming. My advice would be to go back to “self” and the “basics”. We ourselves have to come back into balance with food. Good, delicious, healthy, natural, whole foods, that are local, in season and organic, when possible. We need to bring the family together for meal times, without devices or distractions and the focus must be on interaction. We have to ensure we use positive language because our attitude will give our children a subconscious message about food, eating, habits and health. Once we fall into the pitfalls of processed, junk, unnatural, sugary, non-foods we can get stuck in destructive ways of being that trigger addictions, diseases, disorders, attention deficit, hyperactivity, obesity and other health issues. When we try to fix these patterns later we can be met with resistance. Our relationship with food remains one of the most powerful mirrors that reflect back to us our level of awareness and we pass these on through our parenting. ✤

GO: Email aanchalduggal1@gmail.com for more information.

GO: Keep up with Mariette at innerconnectionconsulting.com or email mcarstens121@gmail.com for more information. fact magazine

ISLAND INSIDER

Karim El Berkchi

Director of Sales and Marketing, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

Tell us three cultural hotspots you love about Bahrain so far and why? Bahrain’s rich trading history is reflected in numerous archaeological digs around the island, Qalat al Bahrain site (Bahrain Fort site) is among the most exciting of them, the fort was built while enduring over 4,000 years of continuous occupation, second is the Bahrain National Museum with it’s outstanding building white travertine marble facade and is centrally located on an artificial peninsula overlooking the island of Muharraq and last but not least is Al Khamis Mosque as

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it’s considered is one of the oldest mosques in the Arab world. Describe your day to day role in your position and what keeps it exciting? My job as Director of Sales & Marketing is to develop and implement strategic marketing plans, sales plans and forecasts to achieve corporate objectives as well to plan and oversee advertising and promotion activities including print, online, electronic media, and direct mail. Part of the job as well is to achieve satisfactory profit/ loss ratio and market share in relation

to present standards and industry and economic trends. Oversee and evaluate market research and adjusts marketing strategy to meet changing market and competitive conditions. What are your professional goals for the rest of the year? My goal basically is to maintain the hotel’s reputation in the market as a 5-star high quality service provider with outstanding food and beverage offerings and definitely increase the market share revenue by signing up with new accounts.

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