Ohlala Bahrain July/August 2023

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Editor’s Letter

“Summer days, drifting away…” Just like in the Summer Nights song, summertime is a moment to let the days pass by in a relaxing and enjoyable way – leave the worries and rushed days for the other months of the year. Even though you still might have to go to work, enjoy the evenings and weekends by going for a massage or discovering a new dining spot – don’t miss out on our dining list with the most fabulous offers in Bahrain this month. But also, it’s a time to be spent with family and friends, and what is the best way to do that? By cooking exciting new dishes for them! We invited a few chefs to share their favourite summer recipes with us that you can reproduce at home to impress your loved ones. Get cooking!

We bring a selection of summertime wear and beauty products to help you unveil your best laid-back style and glow during the hottest time of the year. We went to Dessange Paris Bahrain to try their famous spin class and were pampered at The Gulf Spa at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa after a comprehensive chat with Florencia Pereira, the spa’s manager.

As fashion is one of our favourite subjects, we interviewed the two creative minds behind the fabulous event Fashion Week - Paris to Manama – the third edition is happening in October; stay tuned! Inspired by our food issue, our homes page focuses on the kitchen, how to improve it, and the trends to be embraced.

And as summer is a great time to take a break, we headed to the Maldives to explore one of the newest properties available, Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort. We had a fabulous time and highly recommend you go to paradise and back; it will do more good to you than you can ever expect.

We dined at the newly renovated Fiamma Italian restaurant at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa for a Sicilian feast and drove the electrifying Porsche Taycan. Enjoy your summer reading!

Fernanda Langhammer Editor-in-Chief @ohlalamagazine editor@ohlala-magazine.com

ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS

Fashion Picks

Summer Must-Haves

The hot days ahead of us not only bring a warm breeze – they are also filled with exciting fashion pieces. These are the ones we have our eyes on!

A graphic printed cover-up is all you need for your pool days! Throw it on top of your swimsuit for a flowy effect. This option from Johanna Ortiz at Farfetch can also transform your casual white tee and jeans by adding an interesting layer.

We love black swimsuits; they can double as a bodysuit top and look great with denim shorts. This one from Max Mara has a simple cut with a twist – the asymmetrical straps add a cool detail to the design.

Add an orange accessory to your summer wardrobe. These high-heeled sandals from Christian Louboutin will literally elevate your looks.

Do you want to look fancy while beating the heat? This Celine fan in natural bamboo will add the sophisticated flair you are looking for.

Raffia handbags are a mandatory it-girl item. They speak summer out loud and complement your casual looks perfectly. CH Carolina Herrera added colourful elements to their collection.

SEA YOU SOON

It’s that time of the year to pack your resort wardrobe and head to the beach! Don’t forget a bunch of swimsuits, flip-flops, hats and bikini cover-ups. Let the smell of sunscreen and the sound of the waves lull your summer days away…

BURBERRY AT FARFETCH

CELINE

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

PACO RABANNE

MAX MARA

CAROLINA HERRERA

JW ANDERSON

MISSONI

CELINE TORY BURCH

MARINA RINALDY BY SARA BATTAGLIA

SOAK UP THE SUMMER FUN AT FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

EXPOSE YOUR FEET

Sandals are summer’s favourite footwear and we can’t get enough of them. Thin straps and gladiator styles are the ones to choose this season. Keep your pedicure updated and pair your looks with these gorgeous picks!

ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS AQUAZZURA

TORY BURCH

WEEKEND MAX MARA

TOM FORD AT FARFETCH

VALENTINO GARAVANI

JIMMY CHOO

GIANVITO ROSSI

CELINE

MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION

FERRAGAMO

SUMMER DRESSES

Enjoy sunny days and warm nights dressed in colourful numbers in lightweight fabrics. Opt for vivid solid shades or eyecatching prints. Embrace looks that will lift your mood and take you from a casual stroll to a fancy dinner under the stars.

CAROLINA HERRERA

DOLCE&GABBANA AT FARFETCH

ROKSANDA AT MATCHESFASHION

MAX MARA MAX&CO.

MARINA RINALDI

STYLISH SHADES

Sunglasses are the ultimate summer accessory. They protect your eyes against harmful UV rays (increased during warm months), hide imperfections around the eye area (maybe a reason why many celebrities wear them all the time?) and give an instant symmetry to your face. We selected our favourite styles!

CALVIN KLEIN

LONGCHAMP

CHLOÉ

MIU MIU

FERRAGAMO

TOM FORD

GUCCI

VERSACE

VICTORIA BECKHAM

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

CELINE

BURBERRY

Fit for a QUEEN

Summer is all about vibrant colours and, some of them, when paired together, become a greater force. We are betting on pink, yellow and green for a feminine yet bold composition. Add white or beige accents to break the colour-popping effect and balance your looks.

MARINA RINALDI

ETRO

TED BAKER

MAX MARA

JIMMY CHOO

CH CAROLINA HERRERA

OSCAR

DE LA RENTA

OHLALA ICYMI

Creative Shopping

Al Riwaq Art Space welcomes a one-of-a-kind shopping destination: Depart, a microdepartment store and deli. Owned by Faisal Al Fadda and Ahmed Al Zayani, the store focuses on bringing carefully selected regional and international designers and products to Bahrain. It offers an array of fashion, beauty and home décor, but also a cafe with drinks, pastries and light bites. “Depart is the ultimate destination for anyone who loves niche and luxury items,” stated the owners. In addition to the micro-department store and cafe, Depart Agency aims to help brands from the ground up and ensure their success by aiding them in branding, producing and marketing their products. Depart is a platform for them to showcase their creations and establish their labels.

A new shopping destination on the island and inspiring and creative collaborations – our news roundup brings the latest in high-end lifestyle.

SURF & TURF NIGHT

Every Thursday from 7:00PM to 11:00PM

Your choice of a selection of prime beef cuts and fresh seafood flame-grilled to order.

BHD 28 net inclusive of soft beverages

BHD 38 net inclusive of selected beverages

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

Tasty Accessories

Purificacion Garcia celebrates a new collaboration with Japanese creator Daisuke Takamatsu, a renowned culinary artist who is recognised for his ability to turn luxury items into food. For this special collaboration, Daisuke chose nine iconic Purificacion Garcia bags to reinterpret with his unique creativity. The Origami bag was re-created using a square piece of toast topped with icing and maple syrup, while the Origami Bucket bag had its stitches reproduced with mayonnaise. The quilted Homenaje Acolchado bag, an iconic statement of the brand, born in 2005, is recreated using tomatoes to get the perfect shade of red, passed through a sieve multiple times to get the desired effect paired with the original metallic details to give it a shiny touch. The Soho bag has a cosmopolitan feel and is made with leather and, to reimagine it, the perfect amount of cocoa was adjusted to obtain the ideal brown shade. The culinary artist used an array of techniques and ingredients to create this edible collection.

Sun Ready

Kurt Geiger collaborates with British designer Matthew Williamson in a limited edition collection of beach-perfect pieces. From opulent shoulder bags and generous baskets, vibrant sandals and raffia wedges to exclusive accessories, statement jewellery and dazzling beachwear. Made for high summer, the inspiration comes from Deià in Mallorca, a place Matthew calls home. A distinctive motif adorning the pieces is a mesmerising print that comes in three different colours inspired by the following elements: the turquoise and emerald tones evoking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, tints of warm orange and rich aubergine conjuring the seductive sun-baked landscape, and shades from Kurt Geiger’s iconic rainbow colours adding a kaleidoscopic touch. Matthew Williamson’s exceptional patterns and Kurt Geiger’s signature designs convey the designer’s vision of a London girl’s trip to the Mediterranean island: a sun-drenched journey of decadent escapism.

Luxurious Creations

The fashion brand Del Core partnered with jewellery house Cartier in the launch of the new Cartier High Jewelry Collection called Le Voyage Recommencé in Florence. The new Cartier collection – an exploration of the maison’s savoir-faire and creative practices experienced through the light of a new prism, celebrating the purity of lines, the balance of shapes and volumes, the play of proportions and the final harmony intrinsic to every Cartier creation –was presented on models wearing custom-made Del Core garments. Daniel Del Core created 16 unique pieces by taking inspiration from the deep or bright colours of the gems and the flowing yet precise shapes of the jewels. Sophisticated gowns, a pantsuit, tops and trousers dialogued with Cartier ornaments harmoniously while reassessing the defining Del Core codes. The collection is a celebration of beauty and feminine power through masterful draping, architectural cut and lines that flow around the body, enhancing glamour and movement.

Fun Clothing

Tommy Hilfiger and Disney created a collection to celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary. For the first time, Mickey and his friends enter the world of college prep, appearing in Tommy Hilfiger archival classics. The beloved character and his companions, including Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Goofy, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, are drawn in manga, the popular Japanese comic cartoon illustration. The Disney x Tommy collection re-imagines signature prep classics with playful patterns and prints. The collection includes 50 styles across menswear and womenswear and 10 for kidswear. “An iconic anniversary, an iconic brand and a collaboration with their most iconic characters – there is no better way to join fans around the world in celebrating Disney’s 100th anniversary,” said Tommy Hilfiger. This partnership captures the fashion brand’s longstanding passion for collaborating with pop culture figures whose influence spans generations.

NEWLY MINTED

Italian fine jewellery brand Roberto Coin has opened a new store in Moda Mall.

Italian fine jewellery brand Roberto Coin has come together with its local partner Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC), to open its new boutique in the Kingdom.

Located in Moda Mall, the new space has been designed by Roberto Coin’s long-time collaborator Giulio Miliotti Sclavi (Studio Sclavi) – who has helped the brand launch its store identity concepts all over the world. The aesthetic of the new boutique recreates the warm atmosphere of an Italian living room, with the brand’s signature green hue used as the predominant colour.

The shade of hazel used on the walls of the boutique was created using Gritti Wall wallpaper and reconfirms the brand’s collaboration with the

House of Rubelli, a famous Venetian fabric designer. Meanwhile, the armchairs and sofas in the VIP room to welcome guests have been coloured in striking blushes of pink called Crystal Grey. Elevating the overall appearance of the space are refined materials like gold and marble, stylish carpeting and exquisite chandeliers by Vistosi –a famous brand from Murano.

Roberto Coin, Founder and President of the brand, said: “I am extremely pleased about this new opening with BJC. Bahrain is a country with a fascinating antique history, famous all over the world for its stunning pearls. “It is an honour to bring my Venetian Italian touch to the beauty of local women and to their unique style.”

Roberto Coin collections are available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC). @roberto_coin @bahrainjewellerycentre

Beauty Picks

Sun SHIELD

The truth is that without the sun’s heat and light, life on Earth would not exist. However, its UV rays tend to be higher during summer – they can cause sunburn, premature ageing and skin cancer – so you must protect your complexion and hair. We bring a selection of products to help you care for your health!

Aveda Suncare Products

Brush on Block Mineral Sunscreen

ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF50

Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30

de Peau UV Protective Cream

Coola Dew Good Illuminating Serum Probiotic Sunscreen

ANNA SHVETS AT PEXELS

Open Daily

from 1:00pm to 1:00AM

BORN in bahrain, a new dining destination to enjoy homemade style burgers, giant milkshakes and shisha.

Call or WhatsApp +973 3350 2101

Ground Floor, Le M é ridien City Centre Bahrain

Lips of a Wanderer

Re-applying make-up throughout the day is not a practice many embrace, but we all certainly do lipstick touch-ups! Christian Louboutin has repurposed his iconic lines with Rouge Louboutin On The Go, making them easy to slip elegantly into a handbag. They bring the same performance and boldness of the regular lipstick range but in new precious and nomadic packaging.

Rouge Louboutin On The Go comes in three textures, Velvet Matte, Silky Satin and SooooO…Glow. Each lipstick comes in 12 shades that include the iconic Christian Louboutin red but also nudes, browns, pinks and oranges. Same formula, high performance and range of shades but all in a smaller format.

Rouge Louboutin Velvet Matte is all about colour intensity, long-lasting comfort and wear. It offers six hours of colour fixation, 12 hours of hydration and 24 hours of comfort. Rouge Louboutin Silky Satin delivers high shine and lasting colour in a creamy texture that plumps and cares for lips. It offers six hours of luminosity and colour intensity with 12 hours of moisture.

Rouge Louboutin SooooO…Glow is the ultimate lipstick that offers a sheer lasting shine in hydrating brilliant colour – enjoy six hours of hydration, vivid shade and coverage.

Christian Louboutin lipsticks are now infused with the exclusive Glamlips, a complex that brings a high level of comfort and strong, lasting colour to the lips. The concoction includes hyaluronic acid, to lock in moisture and smooth the lips, B5 vitamins, that act as a powerful antioxidant, and is enriched with pansy extract.

Choose your favourite shade and keep luscious lips on the go. “Because lipstick can transform a face from intense to naïve, or even dangerous,” Christian Louboutin.

Christian Louboutin’s iconic lipsticks are now coming in a smaller format – for ladies on the go.

INSPIRED BY LIGHT

La Prairie scientists have been pursuing the special light that hits Switzerland to create the brand’s skincare lines. In their quest to find skin luminosity, they revisited the house’s signature Science of Light, the foundation of the well-known White Caviar Collection. Their latest launch is the revamped White Caviar Pearl Infusion, newly powered with encapsulated Lumidose, La Prairie’s proprietary illuminating molecule, and enriched with Swiss Golden Caviar ingredients. The serum addresses the skin’s ability to reflect light and improve firmness.

According to the brand, skin luminosity depends on the amount and quality of light radiating from the skin, which is determined by these three dimensions: pigments, texture and skin density.

White Caviar Pearl Infusion focuses on reducing the appearance of the four significant pigmentation disturbances – brown spots, redness, sallowness and greyness – and increasing the density of

collagen fibres in the dermis.

Emerging from 15 years of research, Lumidose is a potent inhibitor of human tyrosinase – the enzyme responsible for the formation of the brown pigment melanin. For the first time, La Prairie has incorporated Lumidose in a double encapsulation technology for deeper skin penetration. This technology allows delivery of Lumidose where it is most needed, in the bottommost layer of the epidermis where melanin formation occurs. As a result, the appearance of dark spots is reduced.

Extracted from caviar fragments, Swiss Golden Caviar contains minerals that activate antioxidant enzymes in the skin. These enzymes help fight oxidative stress, a key driver of yellow, red and brown pigment development.

When pumped out, the signature caviar beads melt and transform into a lightweight gel that glides flawlessly onto the skin. The texture is light-infused with an elegant pearlescence.

La Prairie has re-imagined the White Caviar Pearl Infusion serum formulation with new illuminating ingredients.

PEDAL TO THE METAL

Exercising can be fun when you find the right environment and type of activity. This month, OHLALA’s editor headed to Dessange Paris Bahrain, for a thrilling spin class.

Who doesn’t like to exercise in a fun environment?

Dessange’s Health Club offers precisely that – from lively classes to electrifying spin lessons. And, not only do the classes put you in the right vibe, the gym area has big windows that let the natural light enter, perfect for a morning walk on the treadmill or having a go with the weights. The fact that a trainer is always present to help with the equipment is a big plus for me.

My visit to Dessange this time was to join the popular spin class. I first heard about Dessange’s spin classes when I arrived here more than 10 years ago. One of my work colleagues from that time was addicted to them and would go at least three times a week with a bunch of other ladies. And that popularity is still evident even after so many years. As soon as I entered the bike room, one of my workout buddies for the day said that this was her favourite class. And Dessange offers more than 15 of them! I felt that fun and sweat were in my near future.

Maja, the Health Club Manager, welcomed me and set up the bike according to my height. As she said, we are all different, so the bikes need to be fully adjustable for best performance. I confess, I didn’t know that; I guess it proves that it was going to be my first spin class. The seat has to be at your hip height, and the bicycle handlebars’ distance from the saddle is the length of your forearm. The bikes are brand new from the well-known Stages Cycling; they are compact and modern.

Spinning is full of benefits. It strengthens your heart by pumping more blood with each heartbeat which increases your cardiovascular fitness levels. It is kind to your joints and gentle on your knees due to its low impact; it puts less pressure on your knees and feet than other traditional cardio alternatives. It promotes lean muscle definition for your legs and core, relieves stress and produces happy hormones. As we all know, exercise releases endorphins which interact with receptors in your brain and trigger positive feelings in your body. You also become part of a team, working with others not only subconsciously makes you work harder but it creates a sense of camaraderie. And according to some studies, spinning is one of the highest caloric burns of any workout you can do. I guess I didn’t need any other excuse to jump on the bike and get started!

As I arrived slightly early, Maja suggested a walk on the treadmill to warm up. I headed to the gym across from the round spinning room. I am no exercise expert, but I could see a wide variety of brand-new machines for all sorts of workouts with a vibrant atmosphere. I found a few ladies using the various equipment available.

I stepped on the available treadmill and set up for a 10-minute walk. The music was just at the right level (I dread those dark gyms with loud music blasting), and the view of life happening outside put me in the right mood. A little bird was cleaning its feathers and captured my attention for a big part of my walk, and time flew by.

I returned to the spin room and noticed that many ladies had joined the class. They have 17 bikes and, that day, we were 12 – pretty cool. Maja had told me that I could do the entire 45 minutes at my own pace. She also taught me how to adjust the resistance as she would ask us to change it in the course of the class. And added to find what would work for me; as it was my first time, I shouldn’t overdo it.

The music was on; it was time to start! You might think that pedalling a bike is all about leg work. However, this is not true when you participate in a spin class. There is plenty of arms and core activity. It never crossed my mind when I saw it in movies and on TV shows (the latest one being Wellmania) how much coordination and balance you must have to perform this kind of exercise. I can say that all the push-ups on the handlebars and frequent hand changing in the different parts got me. Spinning the pedals was not so much of a problem. I enjoy running, I have been on the road lately, so my legs were fine, but my core and arms are not strong, and the upper body movements were a bit tricky. But I was having so much fun! For each song played, you have a set of actions to follow, and the vibrancy of the class makes you feel that you can do it!

After the class ended, I spoke to Maja about my coordination problem and she said that you get used to it with time. It is just a matter of finding your rhythm with the bike. Well, maybe after a few tries, I can find a way of teaching my brain to coordinate the bottom and upper parts. And guess what? While talking to Maja, another spinning buddy came to us and said that this was her favourite class so far. She apparently joined the health club recently and has been trying the options available (pure strength, fit dance, booty blast, abs blast, Pilates, bootcamp and so on). I honestly can’t disagree with her. I still have many of them to try, but I now understand why spin class at Dessange has been so popular for so long. If you are looking to improve your health this summer, Dessange offers spin classes at the following times: Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm, Mondays at 4pm and a morning slot on Thursdays at 9am.

For more information or to make an appointment, please call Dessange Paris Bahrain on 1771 3999.

@dessangebahrain

RELAX AND RECONNECT WITH YOURSELF

Wellness has become a crucial element in people’s lives. OHLALA’s editor went to The Gulf Spa for a full-body session that served as a reminder of the importance of self-care.

SPA Focus

One of the perks of my job is to enjoy a spa day during the week and, this time, I got to go once again to The Gulf Spa at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa. For the past year and a half, it’s been under the careful eye of Florencia Pereira, the Spa Manager.

As soon as I arrived at the reception, after using the exclusive entrance to the spa, Florencia welcomed me with her beautiful smile, and the sound of the water pouring into the fountain in the centre of the space put me in the right mood: a relaxing one. After talking to Florencia for some time, I noticed how passionate she is about her job and how it reflects in this wellness haven. She recently changed some treatments on the menu and they now offer exciting customised experiences. The VIP room where couples’ treatments occur can also be used for a small group of ladies or men celebrating a special occasion or as the perfect scenario for a mother-and-daughter moment. The room has its own Jacuzzi, tropical shower, sauna and steam areas, and the fabulous food and beverage team from Gulf Hotel can arrange special high tea menus to be served in this luxurious space. The relaxation areas are also semi-private spaces where friends can enjoy teatime after using the thermal facilities. Everything is done to make you feel pampered with a sense of home.

At The Gulf Spa, you find not only exceptional facilities located in a massive space with three tropical showers, an expansive sauna and steam room

(where you can choose your favourite scent to be emanated in the steam), an ice fountain, Jacuzzi and cold pool – they have the same configuration in the men’s side – but also a dedicated spa boutique. By the reception, you have eye-catching displays where you find the products used in the treatments. They offer the luxurious Spanish brand Natura Bissé, the well-known British spa name, Aromatherapy Associates, and the Hammam line is from the Moroccan Maison d’Asa. They also carry a unique brand to cater to their masculine audience, used exclusively in men’s treatments: Hommage. The Japanese luxury skincare and grooming line is formulated with men’s skin and needs at its core. One treatment called Hommage - Back Treatment aims to be like a facial therapy for the back, a quite problematic area for many men – it offers deep cleaning and hydration.

Florencia took me on a tour around this calming environment with low-lit corridors made with natural stones and wood panels. A décor detail caught my attention, the beautiful art on the walls from Bahrain’s talented artist, Karima Sharabi. Her mystical designs inspired by Arabic calligraphy add the perfect refined taste and an artistic edge to the space.

It was time to get ready for my pampering session, and Florencia left me in the hands of experienced and skilled Analyn, my therapist for the day. She explained that we would start with the 60-minute Swedish Massage. I wanted a relaxing full-body massage (I had moved house the day before and was sore from carrying stuff around), and Analyn was ready to give me precisely that. The Swedish massage is recommended for those looking for relaxation, pain management, stress reduction and increased blood flow. She asked which areas I would like to focus on and, as usual, my request went to my back, as it’s where I hold all my tension. She indeed gave extra attention to it, but to my surprise, she also focused on my arms. I had no idea that a comprehensive massage on my arms would help release the tension. I loved that and will definitely say back and arms on my next spa visit. As she used medium pressure, I didn’t feel any pain as I usually do, and it was an enjoyable session – exactly what I was looking for.

She seamlessly moved to my next treatment: Age Repair Facial. A 90-minute facial therapy that, as the name suggests, aims to fight the signs of ageing. It had been a while since I last had a facial treatment, so I was really excited about it. The Age Repair Facial is performed with a special anti-ageing line from Aromatherapy Associates. The line uses rose as the primary ingredient and other potent botanicals such as frankincense and strawberry seed extract. The smell of each product was absolutely unbelievable. I have to say they took me on an incredible olfactory journey. Analyn started by removing my make-up and then cleansing my skin. She then applied the hydrating and refreshing Rose Skin Tonic toner. After that, it was time for the Rose Exfoliating Cleanser, which contained small particles that easily dissolved into the skin. Still with the product on my face, she placed the steamer close enough to help open the pores to facilitate the manual extraction of black and white heads that followed. Toner again; then she performed an anti-ageing massage with rhythmic movements with Anti-Ageing Fine Line Face Oil. She then covered

my skin with a generous layer of Hydrating Rose Face Mask. While it penetrated my complexion, Analyn worked in a complete scalp massage to improve blood circulation in the area. She removed the mask with a warm towel and applied Rose Radiance Skin Serum, followed by the second mask, the brand’s famous Overnight Repair Mask. As I was going for some errands after my treatment, she left it for only 10 minutes, but she said it could sit on the skin overnight for best results. She finalised with another toner application, Eye Zone Concentrate balm, Triple Rose Renewing Moisturiser and sunscreen.

I looked at myself in the mirror and felt 10 years younger. The fine lines were softer, my skin felt plump and smooth, and it had a beautiful natural radiance. It was amazing to see these results. It felt like magic! And the smell lingered long after. If you are looking for an amazing spa experience that will help you reconnect with yourself or a place to spend time with your favourite girlies, I highly recommend The Gulf Spa. The extensive menu has the ideal therapy for everyone!

Our chat with Florencia Pereira, the Spa Manager at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa, unveiled more about The Gulf Spa’s secrets, and we share them with you!

OHLALA – You have many years of experience in the hospitality sector. What are the main pillars of managing a spa in a hotel?

Florencia Pereira - The human factor! My team is the main pillar. It is true in any industry but even more in ours. A welltrained, passionate, diverse team builds the foundation for a successful spa. The hospitality and wellness industry is more competitive today than it ever was. There is so much innovation, and new technologies are becoming an essential part of the wellness industry. In a world where everything is moving towards automation, the human factor is, more than ever, fundamental and, in my opinion, growing in importance.

OHLALA – What are the most significant characteristics of The Gulf Spa? What makes it stand out?

Florencia - The Gulf Spa is all about the guests’ experience! We are not just the place where customers come for a massage or a facial. It is a destination where our guests can reconnect with themselves by disconnecting from outside distractions and everyday stress. From our beautiful design to the music and the scents that emanate throughout our spa corridors, it is an experience that truly involves all senses. Its unexpected tranquillity, in the middle of the busy city, as well as the quality of the facilities, services and products we use, are all stand-out characteristics.

OHLALA – What do you take into consideration and want to achieve with the menu of treatments offered at The Gulf Spa?

Florencia - To design the menu, we looked at our guests; who are they? What are they looking for? What are we not offering yet? Our main goal is to be a place of pure relaxation for all our guests. In-house guests can recover from jet lag or relax after long meetings or simply enjoy their weekend in Bahrain by taking some time to themselves by enjoying our wonderful thermal facilities and treatments. Local customers can find a place that will bring them comfort in a familiar and welcoming atmosphere while enjoying five-star therapies and luxurious spa brands like Natura Bisssé and Hommage, amongst others.

OHLALA – Which is the spa’s most popular therapy and why?

Florencia - The Gulf Spa Moroccan Journey has become very popular since we launched our new menu last May. It is a threehour journey that treats the body from head to toe. We start in our Hammam room to fully cleanse and remove any trace of city pollution with a Moroccan bath. A spritz of organic oud and sandalwood oil lifts the spirits and nourishes the skin before a one-hour anti-fatigue massage. We finalise the treatment with a facial tailored to the guests’ needs, leaving them feeling renewed and ready to face the world.

OHLALA – What are your future plans for the spa? Maybe new treatments, packages, or anything you would like to highlight?

Florencia - After a very challenging couple of years, the spa industry worldwide has rebounded. There is more awareness today than ever about the importance of mental and physical wellness. The Gulf Spa’s future looks at developing more products/services that will embody the newfound importance of a balanced life for everyone.

For more information or to make a booking, please call The Gulf Spa at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa on 1771 3000 or 1774 6289.

@thegulfspabh

@thegulhotelbh

High Summer Vibes

This La DoubleJ capsule collection is jam-packed with scene-stealing styles for any elegant summer affair.

La DoubleJ’s ode to high summer celebrates the brand’s signature prints, the femininity of vintage designs and the Art Nouveau movement. It brings a gown capsule, a full beach kit, travel-ready mix-and-match sets and a new line of summer knit coverups – this season delivers la dolce vita at its highest vibration yet.

The company is well-known for its bold designs and joy-inducing colourful patterns. The oversized Big Flower is splashed across the new wedding season-ready Lollipop Dress and summer staple Pull-Up Shorts in romantic dusty pinks, greens and yellows for a sunfaded fresco feel. The minimalist-friendly Mezzaluna Print has been updated in olives and chocolate hues on the beloved Palazzo Pants and Biennale Dress. Finally, the Juicy Pineapple pattern makes its mark in statement gold and white across the feminine Flipper Skirt and the androgynous Aviator Jumpsuit, meaning every woman can find her perfect fit. The Cerimonia line brings pieces made for the wedding season with glamourous gowns such as the dramatic Medici Dress or the Eve Dress cut in jacquard. The kaftan capsule adds elegance to any wardrobe with effortless numbers arriving in an all-figure flattering shape in long, midi and mini versions. An array of travel-ready and statement sets are featured in luxe fabrics such as viscose jacquard and easy day materials like jersey. They have been designed to be worn together or mixed with one’s existing wardrobe. Crafted to cater to all your seaside vacation needs, the capsule is also composed of light layers and versatile beach essentials. Ocean-to-aperitivo coverups arrive in the festive Fourth of July colourways and minimal and friendly two-tone designs, while the brand’s iconic swimwear line is almost entirely reversible. Light cardigans and oversized sweaters come in soft Italian wool and loose-weave knits.

To add a touch of energy-elevating colour, this season’s accessories deliver just that. From the comfortable Medal Wedge with velvet straps and a power-printed base to day-tonight woven raffia Veneziana Flats – there’s a shoe for every occasion. A new skinny silk foulard joins the brand’s scarf selection, designed to be worn in the hair, around the neck, on the wrist or on a bag – an instant injection of Italian allure.

@ladoublej

FRENCH FLAIR

The event Fashion Week – Paris to Manama is in its third season. We had a comprehensive chat about it with the creative minds behind this successful initiative, Camille Toussaint, Linguistic, Educational and Cultural Affairs Attaché/ Cooperation and Cultural Action Service at the French Embassy in Bahrain and Nadia Mbarek, Head of Events and Protocol at the French Embassy in Bahrain.

NADIA MBAREK (LEFT) AND CAMILLE TOUSSAINT (RIGHT)

OHLALA – What is the Fashion Week – Paris to Manama?

Camille Toussaint - Fashion Week – Paris to Manama is an initiative of the Cooperation and Cultural Action Service of the French Embassy in Bahrain. This cooperation in the field of fashion between the Kingdom of Bahrain and France aims to shed light on talented emerging Bahraini designers through French expertise and guidance.

Nadia Mbarek - The French Embassy organised the first edition in 2021, in collaboration with the Royal University for Women, especially with the Bachelor of Arts - Fashion Design students. The week culminated with a fashion show, which took place at the university with eight designers presenting their work. The following year, since the success of the first edition, the interest and demand from the public and participants increased and the Embassy decided to expand the experience, opening the call to everyone, increasing the number of designers up to 13 and offering a big fashion show by the waterfront of the National Theatre. This year, the expectations and challenges are even higher, and the Embassy aims to consolidate relations in the field of fashion between both countries.

OHLALA – Why was fashion the chosen platform to connect France and Bahrain?

Camille - Since 2021, one of the target audiences of the Cooperation and Cultural Action Service of the French Embassy in Bahrain is the Bahraini youth. During the last few years, we have cooperated with local entities to implement innovative programmes and projects, especially in the fields of cultural and creative industries. One of the priorities of the French vision is to contribute to the international development and growth of the talented Bahraini youth.

Nadia - And due to the high potential of the emerging designers in Bahrain and the renowned French expertise in this industry, fashion became a natural platform to connect France and Bahrain. Further to the first edition, the Embassy realised that the Bahrain fashion industry had high potential. However, it still needed support regarding education, practice, savoir-faire, sourcing, etc. As France is well known for its fashion influence worldwide, the Embassy implemented this programme to bring expertise and international exposure to this talented Bahraini market.

OHLALA – How was this concept created and why? What is its main purpose?

Camille - The Fashion Week - Paris to Manama is composed of a contest of designers and a week dedicated to the fashion industry and networking. Regarding the contest, the main purpose is to guide, for several months, about 15 selected emerging designers of Bahrain through local, regional and international experts.

Nadia - During this period, they will create and showcase a capsule collection of five to six pieces and a masterpiece under a specific theme. Then, designers will present their work to an international jury that will award the best designers for their potential and talent.

Camille - I want to add that this summer, three of the five winners of the last edition will be in Paris to follow a programme at the Institut Français de la Mode, one of the biggest institutions in the field.

OHLALA – Can you tell us what to expect in this third edition of the event?

Nadia - The Embassy expects that this third edition will be even bigger, with more participants, attendants and events. There will also be a customised mentorship programme with renowned experts, from branding and sketching to styling. This year the fashion show will happen on October 26 and will offer once again a different and unique experience to all the designers and guests.

Camille - The week itself, which will take place from October 22 to 26, will be composed of fashion shows, workshops, conferences, inspiring talks and masterclasses, amongst others. The main objective is to consolidate this cooperation between Bahrain and France through international networking and exposure with the presence of French and international experts, especially from the GCC and France. Moreover, the Embassy seeks to bring a high-quality French savoir-faire to the market by linking the French partner, the Institut Français de la Mode, in Paris, with an organisation in Bahrain.

OHLALA – What is something new to this edition that you didn’t have in the previous events?

Nadia - This year, the Embassy decided to dedicate one entire day to the designers of the last two editions and connect them with this edition’s participants and experts. It will be a unique opportunity for them to display their work, present their development, participate in workshops, talks and conferences and meet new experts and actors in the fashion scene.

Camille - Further to the success of the two last editions, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in France is following closely this innovative concept of ‘French expertise to a local market’ and is supporting this cooperation by providing high-profile experts from France. This will bring regional and international exposure to the Bahraini market.

OHLALA Voices

OHLALA – What is the main aspect of this project that you are very proud of?

Camille - This project is fascinating because we realise, year after year, that it makes sense for everyone, governmental institution, university, training centre, small or big enterprise, involved to be a part of this unique project. Participants, organisers, sponsors, partners and the international public are all waiting for what has become one of the year’s most prominent fashion events. Nadia - This project was born according to the needs and expectations of the fashion industry in Bahrain, and I am very proud as a member of the team, to see how this programme contributes to and completes the potential Bahrain already has. It makes me proud to see and follow these talented designers developing their brands, some of them from scratch, starting their own businesses, selling in the region after the programme, renewing their brands, and so much more.

OHLALA – What do you like most about Bahrain?

Camille - I really appreciate Bahrain’s diversity in terms of cultures, religions, backgrounds and languages. This offers Bahrain an international and multicultural environment, which is an incredible richness for the growth and development of the Bahraini youth. However, despite this melting pot of cultures, Bahrain has successfully preserved its own culture and traditions.

Nadia - Bahrain might be small, but it is a grand country offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle with its diversity and hospitality. It is rich in its heritage, culture, tradition, arts and cuisine. I believe that has helped the designers to boost their creativity and makes them open to the world!

@francebahrein

THE HEART OF THE HOUSE

Inspired by our food-themed issue, we explore one of the most popular spaces in a home: the kitchen! Check out Marilia La Marca’s findings about this space and tips.

OHLALA Homes

Human beings have been socialising around the fire since caveman times. Nowadays, the fire pit can be seen as our modern kitchen, and the get-together aspect remains intact. This space has had a big transformation in the past century. They are no longer a room exclusively for women to cook for their husbands and children but a space to be shared with family and friends. People want this area to be cosy and spacious as cooking has become a form of entertainment. That can be clearly noticed in the number of TV series dedicated to it. Everyone in the family can become a chef. Many friends’ get-togethers are also centred on cooking and showing off new recipes and ingredients to loved ones. From a small, almost private, separate box, the kitchen is now a larger living space to cook, work, study and entertain your guests. Most are not even separated anymore from the living room. They have become more of an extension of the dining and living area. The role of this space has changed quite a lot and the furniture is evolving accordingly.

THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE

Kitchens are aesthetically improving year after year. However, never forget the main role of being a functional space. Understand your kitchen layout and prioritise what is essential for you. Kitchen layout comes in many different orientations, single-walled, U-shaped, galley and more. Whichever type of kitchen layout you have, the flow is crucially important. Have you ever heard about the triangle rule? If you draw a line to connect the fridge with the sink and the stove, you should obtain a triangle. We put in a lot of effort while cooking, which can be tiring, so the triangle rule helps ease the workflow and reduce the amount of walking while cooking. Within this hypothetical triangle, you achieve a better flow. We should always consider case by case if this rule has to be taken into consideration or if we can make some exceptions. But, generally speaking, we shouldn’t have these three elements too far away from each other.

OHLALA Homes

HOUSEHOLD EQUIPMENT

Appliances should be integrated into the design as much as possible. The Eurocucine that happened at Salone del Mobile.Milano last year brought many innovations exhibiting this concept. There is a solid trend towards minimising the look and sounds of the appliances, with several companies introducing systems that blend them into the cabinetry. Thanks to double-depth counters, they disappear behind sliding panels, so we don’t see them when not in use. Not only are the appliances visually integrated into the design, but new tech is also being introduced to minimise noise. This next-level integration is great for open-concept spaces where the kitchen connects directly to the living and dining rooms, making it more pleasant aesthetically and sound-wise.

A protagonist of the kitchen, besides the worshipped kitchen island, is the vent hood. The latest trends see new rounded cylindrical hoods. It is always best to follow the recommended distance height between the hood and the cooktop to ensure the best suction capacity, but don’t forget to customise the measurement according to the heights of the users. If the house owner is extremely tall or particularly small, measurements need to be double-checked to ensure extra comfort.

The cupboards should be within easy access at eye level. However, for heavyweight pots, pans and trays, drawers are preferable. Integrated sockets for smartphones and devices are a must in a modern kitchen. The trendy pop-up socket is a fancy option to consider. Lighting design is also crucial; it should combine ambient, task and accent light. If you perform various chores on your island, make sure you have recessed lighting layered. In addition, you can add a strip of LED light to accentuate certain architectural features or to bring in a bit of extra warmth. Summarising, lighting design requires three illumination levels: a well-lit worktop, a nice statement pendant in the eating area and diffused lighting overall.

LATEST 2023 TRENDS

- Statement islands. Big and bold, made with interesting textures and lots of curves. In high-end designs, they come with a solid marble slab backsplash, matching the counters.

- Islands connected to the counters or dining tables.

- Induction cooktops. They heat the pan through a magnetic field, and even when the water is boiling in a pot, if you touch the burner, it is usually not hot.

- Cabinets up to the ceiling. The standard gap above the storage units is outdated and not visually pleasing. It is also a big surface to just store dust!

- Eco-friendly systems delivering filtered, chilled and carbonated water direct from your kitchen faucet. The perfect solution to eliminate plastic bottles and cans.

- Biophilic design. The trend of introducing natural elements indoors. Celebrate nature with pieces in terracotta, crude clay, cords, glazed tiles, handcrafted décor and natural textures. Invest in indoor greenery and embrace white, beige and calming earthy tones.

- It’s the age of self-expression! Make the most of it with unique styles.

For more homes inspiration, connect with @marilia.lamarca, @ernestomeda and @vzug

V-ZUG COMBICOOLER

*Per room per night (single or double) *20% discount for restaurant and Spa treatments *Valid from 1st of June till 13th of September 2023

*Subject to availability and not valid during Eid or major City events

When Nature Meets EXCELLENCE

OHLALA was invited to visit one of the newest properties in the Maldives, Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort. A unique nature-blessed destination that Fernanda Langhammer had the pleasure to experience –it was much more than a regular stay. Check it out!

One of the meanings of paradise, according to Oxford Dictionaries, is an ideal or idyllic place or state. I would say that another short description would represent this word well: the Maldives – more specifically, Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort. I had the opportunity to experience the resort’s hospitality, incredible facilities, exciting activities, delectable dining and relaxing environment. A picturesque destination with energetic staff, always ready to go the extra mile to make you feel comfortable and pamper you in all possible ways.

To get to this piece of heaven on earth, you have to hop in a seaplane. I have to say, I was not excited about this part of the trip, but sometimes you have to go through not-so-nice things to reach wonderful outcomes. As soon as we landed at Velana International Airport in Male (Maldives capital), a team was waiting to help check our luggage into the seaplane and take us to the Minor Lounge (the Avani brand is part of Minor Hotels, a Thai multinational company based in Bangkok). The lounge was very comfortable with bites, warm coffee and tea. I needed buckets of coffee after my overnight flight, and it just hit the spot. In no time, our seaplane was ready for us!

It looked a lot less scary when we got closer. What caught my attention was the pilots wearing flip-flops, shorts and caps – suitable to the hot and humid weather and, as I noticed later, to all the hopping out and back into the plane. They are known as ‘barefoot pilots’ as the flip-flops are abandoned as soon as they start operating the flying machine. The flight was incredibly smooth (but extremely noisy), and the views were to die for! In 35 minutes, we were landing close to the shores of Avani+ Fares. A boat awaited us and, as we approached the resort, we could see some of the staff making a heart shape with their hands close to their chests while traditional drums sounded. Such a lovely reception! Riaan, the General Manager, and his team were there to introduce themselves while we sipped a cooling drink.

We hopped on one of the island’s buggies and headed straight to our rooms. The check-in was done smoothly from the comfort of my private Beach Pool Villa. Kritika showed me everything I needed to know and explained how to use the room’s facilities. I was in a state of awe with

HERONS BEACH BEACH VILLA BEDROOM BEACH POOL VILLA

TRAVEL Escapes

all the attention to detail. The villa was spacious, with a big super-king bed that would hug me that night and had my name written in palm leaves on the cover – such a lovely touch. The most exciting part about the resort is that you won’t find a single piece of plastic! Sustainability is taken seriously at Avani+ Fares. The bottled waters are refillable, and the toiletries are from Malin + Goetz, a company with a philosophy of fewer ingredients but better quality. Ceramic containers are filled with their luxurious body wash, peppermint shampoo, cilantro hair conditioner and vitamin B5 body moisturiser. Everything smelled incredibly good! The outside shower (a must-have in every property in the Maldives) was my favourite feature.

We were in a group of five girls, all invited to explore this brand-new hotel. My colleague and I were the first to arrive and we unwound in our rooms. We then headed to The Skipjack Bar, a restaurant located by the communal infinity pool with unobstructed views of the vast Indian Ocean. The dining spot gives the perfect beach vibes with modern and comfortable furniture in earthy tones and accents of vivid green, navy blue and yellow. Just as the pilots have casual attire, the resort staff wear comfortable uniforms in breathable materials. The print on the T-shirts is a beautiful drawing of the Baa Atoll, where the five-star property is located, more precisely on Fares island, set on the western edge of the atoll. Skipjack’s menu is vast, with lots of options for a quick bite or full meal. As a vegetarian, it can be tricky to find alternatives, but not at Avani+ Fares, they cater to all dietary restrictions and there is plenty to choose if you are a veggie enthusiast like me. Shannon, responsible for the food and beverage, ensures all restaurants’ menus have something interesting and as sustainable as possible. I opted for the Veggi Burger, a vegetable and mushroom patty in sourdough bread, and sweet potato fries – a light but filling meal.

THE SKIPJACK BAR

INFINITY POOL

OUTDOORS BATHROOM

TRAVEL Escapes

It was time for a full-body massage from AvaniSpa. The relaxing vibe can be felt throughout the whole property, from the smiley staff to the laidback dress code. But meeting Heni, my therapist, choosing my favourite oil and changing into a super fluffy robe was the final hint I needed to fully embrace the dreamy holiday mode. The treatment started with a rice foot scrub. I then moved to the massage table, where Heni began the 60-minute therapy. She used a palm and thumb pressure technique with long-stroke movements. I finished my pampering session by drinking jasmine tea and watching the adorable fruit bats flying from tree to tree looking for Maldivian almonds.

We all met for dinner to try some items on the Tribe menu. The restaurant has a unique concept that invites you to find your tribe by offering different culinary experiences from around the world. An encounter of tribes from Northern Thailand, the plains of Colorado, the Amazon River, the Basque country, the Japanese highlands and the Middle Eastern desert. From the generous spread we had, I would highlight the Satay Gai, marinated cornfed chicken, chargrilled and finished with a spicy and coconut dip. My dining companions loved the smokiness of the chicken paired with the earthy peanut sauce. The other delightful bites were the Vegetarian Spring Rolls, Crisp Baby Squid with wasabi mayo, for which the comment was how fresh it tasted, creamy hummus and beef sliders. But the star dish for me was the simplest one, Charcoal Grilled Leeks with chimichurri and smoked almonds – they were delicate with a delicious smoked flavour. One of the main characteristics of this eatery is the molecular drinks served in eye-catching tiki glasses.

The other dining options on the island are Ocean Terrace, the main restaurant where breakfast is served; Hammock, located in the lobby lounge with comfort food and a grab-and-go corner; Smuggler’s Shack, a beach bar with seasonal pop-up dining; Charcoal, a signature restaurant

with a large charcoal grill; and Petit Bistro, the first kids-only restaurant in the Maldives, located at AvaniKids. The resort also offers the option of in-villa dining and Adrift, a romantic setup and menu served by the beach or other locations on the island.

I woke up energised and headed to the gym for my daily run. I loved that it was fully equipped with Technogym equipment – no excuses to skip my routine even when in holiday mode. After a shower, I had breakfast at Ocean Terrace, where we were served an à la carte menu with all sorts of egg preparations, pastries, healthy granola and chia pudding.

Aquafanatics @Fares is the hotel’s destination for water sports. We went there for a snorkelling expedition. After collecting the equipment and listening carefully to the super energetic diving instructor, Jean, we boarded the boat and started our journey to look for manta rays. We were

not lucky, but we stopped by a massive reef and saw many turtles and fish, such as fusiliers, blue surgeonfish, bluestriped snapper and many others. It was like entering an enormous aquarium – such a great experience! Back on land, we had lunch at Skipjack and shared our impressions of our incredible time in the sea. I spent the afternoon enjoying my private pool and the beach, which was just a few steps away from my garden. I felt like the luckiest girl on earth!

At the end of the day, we embarked on the boat again for an incredible sunset trip where we saw dolphins. As we observed the last light of the day kiss the horizon goodnight, we spotted a massive raincloud following us back to the shore. It poured heavily over us in minutes, but we were under Skipjack’s roof, and it didn’t last very long. Coming from the Middle East, we loved it!

AVANIFIT

CHARCOAL

That night we were invited to dine with Riaan and ask him as many questions as we wanted – and we had many! After discussing a few topics, it was clear that all the good energy that enveloped the property came from the man himself. He is a force, on top of every detail – a passionate leader that fits perfectly in this environment. We had a delightful evening experiencing some dishes from the Charcoal menu and some off-menu items such as the pumpkin and drumstick curry (which I used to commit a delicious culinary crime and poured on top of my risotto) and the Maldivian curry made with local tuna. Flavours that played with our taste buds and that we embraced with ultimate pleasure. There was entertainment from a DJ, and the party vibe took us to the dance floor. The next day we had the opportunity to spend some time in the Avani Overwater Villas. We took our snorkelling equipment and beach clothes and enjoyed the jump from the villa platform into the ocean, where we could continue to be amazed by the incredible sea life. The infinity pool with open views of the turquoise waters was a lavish touch to this luxurious accommodation.

We were gifted with in-villa dining with a selection of delicious curries, red snapper ceviche and salad. I had previously mentioned that I love Sri Lankan beetroot curry, which they don’t have on any of the menus, but guess what we had at our feast? Yes, Sri Lankan beetroot curry! This is an elevated level of customisation to please guests – conquering them by their stomachs!

We also enjoyed a sound healing wellness session at sunset by the beach conducted by Shalin. The whole purpose of this therapy is to promote mindfulness, focus on breathing correctly and massage the brain with the vibration of the bowls. It was my first time experiencing this kind of treatment, a way of connecting with myself and the nature that was surrounding us, a magical moment.

OVERWATER VILLAS MANTA RAYS

TRAVEL Escapes

We ended our trip with a romantic dinner Adrift by the beach. If the sound therapy was magical, this dinner went beyond that. A beautifully decorated table was placed in the middle of a sand circle with low lights ringing the dining spot. A guitarist was playing soft music just for us. The set menu had a refreshing Char Grilled Watermelon appetiser with three main options: Beef Chalmar Tenderloin, Maldivian Tuna Fillet or the veggie Open Lasagna. I opted for the latter, and the dough was cooked to perfection with a creamy white sauce and vegetables with a touch of black truffle, a delicate and light dinner to end this fantastic experience on a high note. The dessert was a deconstructed lemon meringue with lemon curd, a small meringue bowl where a yuzu sorbet sat gracefully, decorated with candied orange, grapefruit and kumquat jam.

We were treated to two extra shows that night. The drinks expert, Sergei, prepared a special and refreshing cocktail at our table while the lovely Nisha, Director of Sales, sang two songs of her own composition in her mother tongue, Maldivian.

If you are looking for a luxurious yet down-to-earth vacation, Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort is all that and more – an ideal place to go with your best girlies or the family and not just a destination for honeymooners. We left with the whole team at the platform, making hearts with their hands (the same way they welcomed us), but this time the hearts were symbolically sent to us while our boat cruised away – and that’s a mental picture I will carry with me forever!

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.avanihotels.com/en/fares-maldives, email fares@avanihotels.com or call +960 722 5604.

@avanimaldives

DOLPHIN CRUISE DIVING AT AVANI+ FARES MAIN POOLDOLPHIN BEACH

Summer Recipes

Inspired by the warmest time of the year, we invited some of the most talented chefs on the island to share their favourite dishes for the hot days with us. Head to the kitchen and have fun re-creating their recipes!

Summer is all about refreshing dishes, but these are some tips to take into consideration:

- Opt for recipes with minimal ingredients but maximum flavour.

- Keep hydrated. Eat water-loaded fruits like watermelon, melon and grapes. You can also make different homemade popsicles with fresh fruits.

- Green leafy vegetables are high in nutrient value and provide a good cooling effect on the body. Spinach, lettuce and kale are your summer talismans. They can be added to smoothies and salads or served as a side dish to a meal.

- During this period, lighter foods are more appealing because they are easier to digest. Foods that require more energy to digest end up generating more heat in the body and, therefore, should be avoided during summertime.

- Cool off with chilled soups! Go for the likes of Gazpacho and cucumber soup.

- No-cook recipes such as salads are an easy way to have a quick meal and still achieve high nutrition and a cooling effect.

Homemade

RAVIOLI

(Mozzarella and truffle ravioli with Portobello mushrooms and parmesan cream)

INGREDIENTS:

For pasta dough:

240g all-purpose flour, or more as needed

6g tsp kosher salt

3 large eggs

2 large egg yolks

26 tbsp olive oil

For pasta filling:

250g buffalo mozzarella cheese

80g mushroom paste

50g truffle paste

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

For sauce:

400ml cooking cream

100ml stock

50g Portobello mushroom

80g mushroom paste

80g parmesan

100g butter

50g garlic

50g onion

50ml olive oil

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

Truffle oil (just a few drops)

“Pasta is the most popular food in Mediterranean cuisine and contributes to thousands of recipes. To cut it short, it’s a must-have on the menu. In our restaurant, the ingredients are finely sourced, from flour to mozzarella cheese, which is made locally, resulting in a high-quality dish. Also, pasta with truffle is a perfect recipe to amaze your guests, and the seasonal black truffles contribute to a great summer dish you can enjoy with family and friends,”

Chef Nicolas Herbault, Executive Chef at Address Beach Resort Bahrain.

Thyme for flavour

Chopped basil for flavour

Watercress

METHOD:

1. Combine salt and flour in a bowl. Mix eggs, egg yolk and olive oil in a separate small container, then add the wet mix to the flour bowl and knead well. While kneading, there should be no lumps on it.

2. Once the dough is ready, wrap it in cling film and let it rest for 30 minutes. After that, cut the dough into half and roll it into sheets.

3. Combine all the ingredients from the filling and set aside.

4. Roll the sheet and cut it into round shapes, fill the circles with enough filling, close it like a half-moon and blanch it.

5. Prepare the sauce. In a pan, add olive oil, garlic and onion and sauté. Add the cooking cream, cook well, then add the mushroom paste and chopped basil – mix well. Add parmesan, butter and seasoning. Stir well.

6. Then add ravioli and cover with the sauce.

7. Garnish with grilled Portobello mushroom slice, parmesan flakes and watercress.

8. Serve hot.

Som Tum

POLAMAI RUAM

(Thai Som Tum Spicy Mixed Fruit Salad)

INGREDIENTS:

20g sweet corn

30g red or green apple

30g pineapple

20g pomelo

30g mango

30g dragon fruit

15g strawberry

10g cherry tomato

2g mint

2g red chilli

3g garlic

5g dried shrimp*

8g lime

5g palm sugar

5g fish sauce*

10g peanut

Salt – if required

OHLALA Insights

“Imagine a cold refreshing drink on a hot summer day with the freshness of lime, the sweetness of fruits, a hint of spice for a kick and flavours of herbs. Doesn’t that sound refreshing? The Som Tum Spicy Mixed Fruit Salad is one such recipe, where a perfect blend of ingredients mingles to bring out a fresh feel on a hot summer day. I felt that this would be fantastic for this summer season and would also be a perfect salad to get you rejuvenated,”

Chef Kadsarin Pukung, Thai Chef de Cuisine at Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa.

METHOD:

1. Cut the fruits into cubes and put them with sweet corn in a bowl and refrigerate.

For the Som Tum dressing:

1. Crush a small garlic clove and chilli in the mortar. Add lime juice, fish sauce and palm sugar. Check seasonings and add more if required.

2. Pour Som Tum dressing into the bowl of fruits, and add peanut and dry shrimp. Mix well.

3. Garnish with a mint sprig and serve chilled.

*If you are vegetarian, use soya sauce instead of fish sauce and avoid dry shrimp.

Chef’s tip: Note that you can use any fruit for this summer mixed fruit salad.

@thegulfhotelbh

Pan Seared Sea Bass, Green Pea & Mint Mash

(With sour cream emulsion)

INGREDIENTS:

170g sea bass fillet

40g green peas

5g mint

20g sour cream

5ml lemon juice

5ml herb oil

10ml olive oil

2pcs edible flowers

1g kale powder

2 garlic cloves

20g shallots

1 thyme sprig

2 cucumber slices

10g green beans

5g celery stick

Assorted microgreens

OHLALA Insights

“I draw inspiration from the vibrant culture and seasonal ingredients of Bahrain. Summer here is characterised by a desire for light, refreshing dishes that showcase the best of the local produce. I selected fresh fish from the local market and incorporated ingredients from my smart farm, in line with Hilton Bahrain’s commitment to sustainability. My aim was to create a dish that not only celebrates the flavours of summer in Bahrain but also incorporates sustainable practices. And to add a nutritional boost and depth of taste, I incorporated potent kale powder to the recipe to give a burst of flavour in every bite,” Chef Ravneet Manchanda, Executive Chef at Hilton Bahrain.

METHOD:

1. Blanch green peas and mint in boiling water, then purée.

2. Cook shallots with sour cream, reduce and finish with lemon juice and herb oil for the sauce.

3. Blanch celery and green beans in salted water.

4. Pan sear the sea bass; add olive oil and garlic to the same pan and finish cooking the fish.

5. Assemble the dish by placing green pea purée at the base, followed by the sea bass, vegetables, a quenelle of sour cream, edible flowers, microgreens, sauce and a sprinkle of kale powder to finish.

@hiltonbahrain

Mediterranean GRILLED LOBSTER

(with Saifiya Salad)

INGREDIENTS:

For the salad:

Mixed leaves

Watermelon

Cherry tomato

Cucumber

Red quinoa

Feta cheese

Sweet melon

Fresh mint

For the dressing:

Lemon juice

Orange juice

Olive oil

Salt to taste

For the Lobster:

Fresh lobster

Garlic

Coriander powder

OHLALA Insights

Fresh coriander

Lemon juice

Orange juice

METHOD:

For the salad:

1. Cut the sweet melon, watermelon, cucumber and feta cheese into cubes. Then, put the mixed leaves, cherry tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, sweet melon and feta cubes in a bowl. Next, put mint and red quinoa on top. Lastly, drizzle the dressing on top and mix the salad together to enjoy.

For the lobster:

1. Cut the lobster in half and marinate in crushed garlic, coriander powder, fresh coriander, lemon juice and orange juice for at least an hour. Grill the lobster for five minutes on each side while drizzling olive oil over and adding salt and pepper to taste.

2. Serve it with grilled asparagus, eggplant and mushrooms. You can also add some cherry tomatoes for a pop of colour.

@thewestinbahrain

“I chose this dish because the ingredients are in season during summer, are readily available and are easy to prepare. The Saifiya Salad – Saifiya meaning summer in Arabic – is a light and refreshing dish that is a great companion to a perfectly grilled and seasoned lobster. Ideal for sharing with family and friends during the warm summer days,”

Chef Ahmed Salem, Sous Chef at The Westin City Centre Bahrain.

Beetroot

RISOTTO

(With feta and candied walnut))

INGREDIENTS:

160g risotto rice

50g beetroot puree

25ml olive oil

50g butter

50g feta

40g candied walnut

20g garlic

50g onion

50ml cooking cream

40g parmesan cheese

250ml vegetable stock

Thyme for flavour

Salt and pepper to taste

Baby arugula for garnish

Chef Chetan Singh Rana, Chef de Cuisine at Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain.

METHOD:

1. In a pan, add oil, sauté garlic and onion. Then add risotto rice, thyme and sauté.

2. Add the vegetable stock little by little. Add seasoning and cook until the rice reaches the al dente stage.

3. Add the beetroot puree, cream, and finish with parmesan cheese and butter.

4. Serve on a plate and top it with feta, candied walnut and baby arugula leaves.

@vidabahrain

“This is my all-time favourite dish, a flavour bomb for the palate! Beetroot adds an earthy taste, and feta’s salty essence balances it perfectly, while the candied walnut gives an extra crunch and flavour. This is an ideal recipe to enjoy during summer,”

A CULINARY JOURNEY TO SICILY

Flavours from this sunny Italian island is what Lawson Misquitta found at the newly renovated Fiamma Italian restaurant at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa.

CHIC Eats

Stepping into the hotel lobby, my colleague and I were immediately met with a lively scene on account of a wedding ceremony to be held later that day at the property. However, we were there for another purpose, one that had us both quite upbeat. We were visiting the newly renovated contemporary Italian restaurant Fiamma, which now boasts an exciting new menu prepared by Sofitel’s Executive Chef Marco Terranova. The first to greet us on arrival, he was warm, enthusiastic and extremely passionate as he described his intention behind the new menu. Born and raised in Augusta, Sicily, Chef Marco outlined to us the carefully curated gastronomic experience that’s inspired by the colours and flavours of Sicily, as well as his influences from Spain, France and North Africa. He emphasised the importance of using the freshest seasonal ingredients to create delicious and authentic preparations and, in no time, had us quite enthralled.

The restaurant’s revamped interior now reflects a distinctive décor with tasteful and elegant details that exude the true essence of rustic Italy. Spread across the space were familiar Sicilian motifs such as authentic hand-painted Caltagirone ceramic plates and ceramic pinecones that are regarded as a symbol of wellness and good fortune.

Once seated we were served some focaccia bread that was beautifully golden-brown all over but soft and fluffy on the inside. As I scanned the menu, I also noticed that every dish had a specific suggested grape paring to enhance the dining experience, a nice touch.

CHIC Eats

The meal kicked off with the first round of antipasti that included the Carpaccio di Manzo and Tartare di Gamberoni. The carpaccio was thinly sliced beef tenderloin topped with a flavourful truffle vinaigrette, roasted oyster mushrooms and shavings of truffle pecorino – every morsel was a delight. Tartare di Gamberoni was a light and refreshing starter with prawns, a simple tomato confit, finely chopped shallots and garlic croutons that provided every bite with a terrific crunchy texture. Next, was the Mare Su Terra, one of Chef Marco’s signature dishes. He wasn’t pulling any punches here as I was informed that the red mullet had been slow cooked at a very low temperature with caprino cheese imbuing the fish with an almost creamy flavour. It was then topped with thinly sliced carpaccio truffle that complemented the fish with its level of umami flavour. Accompanying that was a specially marinated, semi poached prawn that was roasted and then generously topped with caviar. The decadence didn’t end there as I was treated to the molecular gastronomic delight of lemon potato foam that was also part of this sensory masterpiece. The grand symphony of flavours left us absolutely impressed! The final starter was the Polpette Alla Griglia – perfectly grilled, delicious, citrus-scented meatballs that came with a smooth and buttery purée of charcoal-roasted celery root and cauliflower that I couldn’t help but smother every bite with. The twist here was the thin slices of candied orange rind that when mixed into a bite completely elevated the experience. Truly genius! Within minutes we were served some spectacular pastas, all of which we were told are prepared daily, in-house from scratch. The first being Norma, a traditional preparation with penne pasta cooked in a simple but deeply flavourful tomato sauce alongside fried eggplant and topped with grated ricotta salata. The next, Paccherri Al Limone, consisted of pasta tossed in an undeniably ravishing prawn bisque and finished with lemon scent.

I must admit, I happily doused the remaining focaccia bread with the sauce of this dish and guiltlessly enjoyed every bite. The final pasta offering was the gnocchi which was prepared to perfection and was one of the best I’ve tasted on the island.

This was followed by my personal favourite of the meal, the Tonno Alla Griglia – a tuna fillet grilled to medium rare perfection brushed with paprika oil that gave it a unique smoked flavour and a pinch of heat. It was then set upon a bed of savoury eggplant caponatina, topped with artisanal chips and served with a succulent dollop of buffalo mozzarella. Prepared flawlessly, this dish had my taste buds rejoicing.

The final main course was another special preparation by Chef Marco, the Pizzoli – a double layered parmesan-crusted pizza that is native to Sortino, a town in Sicily. This particular one was stuffed with mozzarella, olives, anchovies, semi-dried tomato sautéed in garlic, along with spinach. A first for my colleague and me, every single bite was a revelation to us. For dessert, we had the Tiramisu which exceeded our expectations. From the subdued sweetness of the mascarpone and sabayon cream to the dreamy savoiardi coffee biscuits and the bitter cocoa powder that rounded everything off exquisitely, each spoonful was irresistible. We had to try the Trittico di Cannoli, a popular Sicilian pastry. This one had a decadent filling of ricotta cheese and chocolate chip and pistachio cream, topped with a tart raspberry ganache.

Chef Marco truly impressed us while living up to his promise of serving up a traditional but inspired culinary feast that’s rooted in his Sicilian homeland but also influenced through his personal life experiences from across the globe. As I left Fiamma, I was certain that I'd found a new favourite Italian spot on the island. With the charming new décor, excellent service and the wonderful food, I’m quite sure that it will be yours too.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call Fiamma Italian at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa on 1763 6363. @sofitelbahrain

CHIC Eats

Hot SEASON Delights

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

La Mosaique Restaurant

Indulge in the ultimate Friday lunch experience with a wonderful buffet offering savoury starters to mouth-watering mains and irresistible desserts. The curated spread promises to be an unforgettable feast that will have guests craving for more. The Friday Feast offer runs from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD18 net.

Call 1753 1122 or 3722 3366 for more information or to make a reservation.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

Spices

Delight in the authentic flavours of Spices' renowned biryani selection! Experience the culinary richness of Hyderabadi, Awadhi, Kolkata and Malabar styles and more. Accompanied by tantalising side dishes such as raita, chutney, pickle and papad. The offer runs from Tuesday to Sunday from 12pm to 3pm and then from 6pm to 11pm and is priced à la carte.

Call 1753 1122 or 3722 3366 for more information or to make a reservation.

DOWNTOWN ROTANA

Flavours on 2

Enjoy brunch every Friday from 12.30 pm to 4pm. Dive into the generous spread of salads, main courses, a sushi counter, live cooking stations and desserts. The offer is priced at BD28 net and BD38 net, including house beverages, accompanied by live entertainment.

Call or WhatsApp 3360 5070 for more information or to make a reservation.

DOWNTOWN ROTANA

Teatro Downtown

Enjoy all-you-can-eat sushi options, starters and a dessert every Tuesday. The Tokyo Drift offer runs from 5pm to 11pm. You can sample the best of sashimi, maki, rainbow rolls, nigiri and more while enjoying live entertainment, all for BD18 plus taxes and BD27 plus taxes including selected house beverages.

Call or WhatsApp 3360 5070 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

Bay View Lounge

Enjoy an afternoon tea experience inspired by the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland, with pastries and unique sandwiches complemented by a selection of tea, coffee or mocktails from the newly launched Beverage Zero menu. The offer runs daily from 12pm to 11pm and is priced at BD18 net per person, including a trio of Beverages Zero mocktails. Call 1711 5500 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

Pool & Beach Deck

Noodles or rice? Salmon or tuna? Indulge in something fresh this summer and build your own poke bowl. Choose from a variety of delicious bases, healthy toppings, proteins, mix-ins, sauces and more. The offer runs daily from 10am to 6pm and is priced at BD12 per bowl.

Call 1711 5500 for more information or to make a reservation.

Breakfasts, business lunches, afternoon teas and dinners compose our dining offers selection. Choose your favourite meal of the day and dine in summery style!

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

Margarita Mexicana

Indulge in a night of dance, music and amazing food at Margarita Mexicana's Karaoke and Latin Night Extravaganza. Take the stage, sing your heart out in an evening of karaoke, Latin rhythms and delectable Mexican delights. The offer runs every Wednesday from 7pm to 10pm and is priced at BD9.5 plus taxes for one coupon, which includes three drinks and one food item. An à la carte menu is also available, charged as per order.

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

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

Sato

Indulge in the irresistible Wagyu Katsu Sando, a popular Japanese beef sandwich. At the heart of this extraordinary creation lies a Japanesestyle breaded and deep-fried cutlet that boasts an unmatched level of tenderness and juiciness. The offer runs from July 6 to 31 and is priced at BD28 plus taxes.

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

HILTON BAHRAIN

Origin Kitchen and Culture

Get ready to escape to a tropical paradise with the Tropical Brunch as you enjoy island vibes, delicious eats and refreshing drinks. The offer runs on Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD28 net with soft drinks and BD39 net with unlimited selected beverages.

Call 7701 0100 for more information or to make a reservation.

HILTON BAHRAIN

Origin Kitchen and Culture

Ready to dive into a sea of flavours? Enjoy a seafood night with live cooking stations and exciting live entertainment in the company of your family and friends. The offer runs every Thursday from 7pm to 10pm and is priced at BD25 net with unlimited soft drinks and BD32 net with unlimited selected beverages.

Call 7701 0100 for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

Legendz SteakHouse

Enjoy The Brunch @Regency every Friday from 11am to 4pm, with a variety of delightful options starting with breakfast classics and ending with lunch. The offer is priced at BD28 net with soft drinks and BD37 net with endless selected beverages. Kids aged six to 12 years old get 50% off and those under six dine for free.

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

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

Medzo

Savour a delightful business lunch with a wide variety of antipasti. Select either pasta or a main course from the menu and finish the meal with coffee and biscotti. The offer runs Sunday to Friday from 12pm to 3pm and is priced at BD4.9 net per person.

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

LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Baharat

Enjoy the Sparkling Brunch every Friday, where good vibes never cease to flow. The offer runs from 1pm to 4.30pm and is priced at BD28 net per person, including soft beverages and BD38 net per person, including selected beverages.

Call 1717 1000 or WhatsApp 3888 5862 for more information or to make a reservation.

LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Baharat

Enjoy breakfast daily from 6.30am to 11am and extended until 11.30am during weekends. The offer is priced at BD12.5 net per person. Turkish breakfast is also available daily from 9am to 11am at BD9.5 net. À la carte lunch is available Saturday to Thursday from 12pm to 4pm. Call 1717 1441 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Gallery Lobby Lounge

Treat yourself to a delightful afternoon tea on weekdays from 3pm to 7pm. Savour a selection of sweet and savoury treats, complemented by a cup of tea or coffee to warm your heart. The offer is priced at BD15+++ for two. Call or WhatsApp 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Silk’s Restaurant

Dive into a seafood feast with the freshest catch of the day while enjoying DJ entertainment. From sushi and sashimi to seafood dim sums, tempura and more. The offer runs on Mondays from 7pm to 10pm and is priced at BD26+++ per person including unlimited selected beverages and soft drinks and BD22+++ per person including unlimited soft drinks and water. The price also includes one platter of oysters.

Call or WhatsApp 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

CHIC Eats

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Saraya Restaurant

Enjoy Sofitel's Grand Friday Brunch Hawaiian-themed on July 7, 21 and 28 with a mouth-watering selection of international delicacies. The food celebration is accompanied by live music from the Cuban band and special kids' entertainment. On July 14, in honour of ‘La Fête Nationale’, enjoy a Summer Bastille Friday Brunch. The offer runs from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD30 net per person, inclusive of food and selected beverages. Children between the ages of six to 12 years get a 50% discount and those below five dine for free. Advance reservation is required.

Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a reservation.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Pashawat

Experience Lebanese culture at Pashawat's Bazar Nights! Scrumptious Lebanese fare awaits, along with live performances. The offer runs every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9pm to 2am and is priced at BD25 per person.

Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE ART HOTEL & RESORT

Choices Restaurant

Enjoy the Asian Market W.O.L.K. brunch on July 28. The offer runs from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD28 net per person with soft drinks and BD38 net per person with enhanced beverages. Children from six to 12 years pay BD14 net and those below six dine for free. Call 1600 0111 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

BO.SABI

Enjoy sushi night every Thursday from 8pm to 11pm, with unlimited sushi for two hours and exciting live entertainment, priced at BD15 net. Call 3811 1474 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

Mondo,

Taste of Italy

Enjoy Pizza on The Double every Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 6pm. Buy one pizza and get a 50% discount on the second. Call 1753 1666 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE DOMAIN HOTEL & SPA

Le Sauvage, Level 34

An offer for steak lovers! Enjoy a succulent 600g beef tenderloin seasoned with special spices and cooked to perfection. You can enjoy your steak with a variety of sauces, green salad, creamed spinach, and Cajun handcut potato chips. The offer runs every Wednesday from 7pm to 10pm and is priced at BD15++.

Call 1600 0000 or WhatsApp 6639 5608 for more information or to make a booking.

THE DOMAIN HOTEL & SPA

Level 34

Enjoy a romantic, pre-set, three-course dinner with a piano performance that will elevate the mood further. The offer runs daily from 6pm to 11pm and is priced at BD30++ per couple.

Call 1600 0000 or WhatsApp 6639 5608 for more information or to make a booking.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

La Med

Enjoy a Brunch-licious experience with family and friends. A delicious spread of international specialities awaits with fun activities for kids and adults. The brunch features a sumptuous carving station, delectable desserts and an array of selected items from the hotel's award-winning speciality restaurants. The offer runs every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD35 per person including soft beverages, BD45 per person including selected beverages and BD17.5 per child including soft beverages.

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

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

Primavera

Dining delights meet business success. Enjoy a three-course business set lunch amidst scenic views and modern décor. The offer runs on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday from 12.30pm to 3pm and is priced at BD25 per person.

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

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Furn Bakery & Rotunda

Enjoy an afternoon tea from Sunday to Thursday, 2.30pm to 5.30pm. The offer is priced at BD15 with unlimited tea and coffee or BD20 with a glass of bubbly. Enjoy a spread of finger sandwiches, homemade scones with jam and a colourful array of pastries.

Call 1717 1000 or WhatsApp 3888 5862 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Salero

Vermut a Tu Salud Saturday brunch offers a Spanish fiesta mood with a selection of cold and hot tapas and paella of the day cooked to order. You can repeat any items on the menu as you like, plus indulge in a dessert buffet. The offer runs from 1pm to 5pm, priced at BD29.5 including the selected beverage package and BD22 net including soft drinks. The brunch menu changes from time to time, so check their Instagram for weekly menus.

Call 1717 1300, WhatsApp 3350 2110 or follow @salerobahrain on Instagram for more information or to make a reservation.

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN

Origins Restaurant

Enjoy exciting live entertainment, delectable food and refreshing beverages as you soak in the stunning sea views. Indulge in a vibrant buffet at Vida Friday Brunch, with a range of international and local dishes. The offer runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at BD28 net for soft beverages, BD35 net for selected beverages and BD14 net for children aged six to 12 years.

Call 7748 8100 or email reservations.vimbh@vidahotels.com for more information or to make a reservation.

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN

The Bistro by Origins

Enjoy mussels night every Thursday with unlimited mussels cooked to perfection in a range of signature sauces, and get 25% off on selected Belgian hops! The offer runs every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD15 net.

Call 7748 8100 or email reservations.vimbh@vidahotels.com for more information or to make a reservation.

PORSCHE’S ELECTRIFYING ���� TAYCAN

OHLALA SPENT THE DAY IN THE LATEST TAYCAN, THE NEW PORSCHE MAKING WAVES IN THE ELECTRIC SPORTS CAR SEGMENT.

OHLALA is a fan of all things Porsche and we always relish the chance to get behind the wheel of any model we can get our hands on. This month, thanks to the team at Porsche Centre Bahrain, we got the opportunity to test drive the new, fully-electric 2023 Porsche Taycan.

EXTERIOR

Our first impression of the four-door sports saloon was that it carries the unmistakable Porsche design DNA. At the front end, the low and wide stance of the vehicle is particularly obvious. As a result of the compact drive components, the bonnet slopes down at a flat angle between two highly pronounced wings. The LED matrix headlights and the air curtains combine to form a visual unit that seems to float. The unique light signature with three-dimensional glass elements is further enhanced by the presence of four-point daytime running lights – both flatter and wider than those of any previous Porsche model.

From the sides, we admired the sculpted contours of the new Taycan, along with the steeply sloping panoramic roofline. The short overhangs at the front and rear emphasise the car’s sporty proportions, whilst the

sleekly designed cabin sits on a wide body and 21-inch Mission E design wheels, both reinforcing the car’s lean and muscular look.

At the back, the drawn-in C-pillar and pronounced shoulders of the wings enhance the width of the rear. A narrow, illuminated bar stretches from one side of the back end to the other and contains the Porsche logo made of three-dimensional-shaped glass letters. Further notable rear design features include an aerodynamically efficient diffuser and a spoiler that extends in three phases depending on speed.

INTERIOR

Slipping into the 18-way electric adaptive front sport seats, the driverorientated nature of the tech-laden cockpit was immediately apparent. The cleanly styled dashboard is a modernised version of the one fitted in the original 1963 911. The wing-shaped upper and lower sections of the dash stretch across the entire width of the car, where they effortlessly blend into the door trims.

The instrument panel also features a clean, minimalist and ultracontemporary design, whilst the curved instrument cluster forms the highest point on the dash. All components are positioned to ensure the driver has everything in easy view required for driving the Taycan.

“The Taycan houses two efficient electric motors, one on the front axle and one on the rear, thus making the car all-wheel drive.”

DIVA Drives

A novel inclusion in the interior is the compact direction selector switch in the instrument panel, replacing the classic lever in the previous models. The Taycan is equipped with two plus two seating as standard, but you can opt for a third seating space in the back if desired. With ample room on offer in the front and a comfortable seating arrangement in the back, this sleek saloon is not only aesthetically pleasing but functional to boot.

INFOTAINMENT & TECH

The highly innovative instrument cluster houses a 16.8-inch display with a modern tablet-like appearance. The driver can select between four display modes – Power Meter, Map, Extended Map and Reduced – each focusing on different aspects of the driving experience. A passenger display is offered as an optional extra.

The elevated centre console features an additional 8.4-inch touch panel with haptic feedback. Our favourite feature of this panel was the integrated handwriting recognition that allows for the quick entry of street addresses. We also noticed that many classic hardware controls have been omitted, replaced by touch operation and voice control functions.

The colour head-up display is another great optional extra, projecting relevant information directly into the driver’s field of vision. It features several display options, including a navigation display, a power meter and a user-defined view.

PERFORMANCE & SAFETY

The Taycan houses two efficient electric motors, one on the front axle and one on the rear, thus making the car all-wheel drive. It also comes equipped with the Performance Battery Plus as standard, enabling this model to produce 490hp (360kW). This bestows the Taycan with frighteningly fast acceleration, surging from 0-100km/h in four seconds flat and delivering a regulated top speed of 250km/h.

Porsche have included a centrally networked control system for the car’s chassis that analyses and synchronises all chassis systems in realtime. Complete with adaptive air suspension featuring three-chamber technology and four driving modes – Range, Normal, Sport and Spot Plus – this metallic masterpiece is equipped to deliver a smooth and exciting driving experience.

The all-electric Taycan can be recharged at home with up to 11kW of alternating current (AC) as standard. When out and about, the charging time from five to 80% is a mere 22.5 minutes at an 800-volt charging station. This equates to 100km of range in just 5.5 minutes.

Lastly, it’s no surprise that Porsche has equipped the new Taycan with a full suite of the latest driver assistance and safety features.

For more information or to experience a luxury test drive of your own, please call Porsche Centre Bahrain on 1745 9911.

@porschecentrebahrain

Out &About

Rolls-Royce Spectre Unveiling at Exhibition World Bahrain

Opening of ORO Lounge & SteakHouse, Gunaydin

Out &About

The New BMW X5 & X6 Launch at the BMW Showroom

Scalini Bahrain Menu Launch, Royal Saray Resort

BSPCA Black Tie Dinner at Address Beach Resort Bahrain

Celebration of Porsche's 75th Anniversary and Launch of New Taycan at the Dome Lounge BIC

Eat with your Mind

Miss Ohlala explores the connection between food and feelings.

Food has an incredible capability to unite people. It also brings many benefits when shared; it builds trust among people as they are bonded with this invisible thread created by eating the same food. You can also reach decisions and consensus quicker, as you are more likely to respect each other when eating together. Why do you think many business meetings are done over lunches and dinners?

We also usually associate food with good memories (or bad ones). That childhood dish your grandma used to prepare can calm you down when things get rough, as it will spark the feeling of being loved. The taste, smell and texture of food get ingrained in our brains, and have the power to bring not only memories of the act of eating the food itself but also of places and settings. The neuroanthropologist, John S. Allen, wrote in his The Omnivorous Mind: Our Evolving Relationship with Food book that the human brain interacts with the food environment

through a range of cognitive adaptations that combine to form the ‘Theory of Food’, which operates in the brain much like the capacity for language acquisition.

He also believes that food effectively triggers more profound memories of feelings and emotions, internal states of the mind and body. His theory also highlights the reward effect food has on our brains. For example, when we eat highly appealing food such as candy, the brain’s reward centre is activated, giving our internal systems the message that we did well. At the same time, the neurotransmitter dopamine converts this short-term memory into a long-term one. So, when you eat the same candy 50 years later, those memory centres light up with happy recollections.

What about creating unforgettable new memories with the Summer Recipes shared by the amazing chefs in this issue? It will be a memorable summer celebrated with yummy food!