Ohlala Bahrain June 2022 by Ohlala Magazine

All That Glitters Beautiful Jewellery and Fascinating Interviews

Where to Go? Monaco Awaits you

GETAWAY

MODE

Fashion, Beauty and Homes Tips for the Wanderer WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM JUNE 2022 | ISSUE 205 BAHRAIN BD2 | KSA SR20

ESCAPE THE SUMMER WITH 30% OFF STAYS AT #VIDABAHRAIN Enjoy complimentary upgrade to next room category, early check-in & late check-out privileges, as you have a summertime ball on the picturesque shores of Marassi Al Bahrain. T&C apply

@VIDABAHRAIN Book now by calling +973 7748 8100

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MALONE SOULIERS

Editor’s Letter June is when we start to get a preview of the summer days that are about to hit us. And the plans to escape the heat are in full-on progress. To help you with your affairs, we’ve got an issue dedicated to travelling in style, beauty tips, how to incorporate your travel souvenirs into your home and a destination sought after by the rich and famous – the small, yet posh, Monaco. And if you don't have plans to go anywhere, you can still let your mind drift away and embark on an adventure while reading our magazine! We have introduced a new section, Brand Spotlight, and, for its debut, we dug into the world of Damas Jewellery and its transformation in the past two years. We also spoke to Carolina Campita about her new position as Associate Director of Public Relations and Marketing at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. And, noticing an ever-growing tech market for women, HUAWEI has a selection of gadgets designed specially for us – and the OHLALA team had the pleasure to test them out. Our beauty session at Dessange Paris Bahrain explored the bridal package, and I got to feel extra special. In the food department, we had two delectable feasts, the first one at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay for their re-launched Friday Brunch – a journey through fine and exciting cuisines. The second happened at The Bistro by Origins at Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain to try their new menu. The test drive this month was behind the wheel of the INFINITI QX55, and we found that good looks and comfort meet in this luxury crossover coupé. Enjoy your journey through our words.

Fernanda Langhammer

Editor

editor@ohlala-magazine.com @ohlalamagazine 10

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PRINCESS FLOWER | robertocoin.com

OHLALA

Pages

JUNE 2022

46 Beauty Column Beauty On Board

12 14 26 32 42

Editor's Letter OHLALA Fashion Picks In Case You Missed It Jewellery Edit - A Playful Spin on Luxury OHLALA Beauty Picks

50 Here Comes the Bride at Dessange Paris Bahrain

70 74 80 94 98

OHLALA Homes - Treasured Travels Travel Escapes - A Glamourous Escape to Monaco Chic Eats - Life is Made of Memories Diva Drives Miss OHLALA

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SPECIAL THIS ISSUE: Brand Spotlight Damas Jewellery pg36

THE AWARD-WINNING FRIDAY BRUNCH RETURNS Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay brings back the award-winning Friday Brunch. The one-of-a-kind culinary experience returns with long-time favorite delights from the Wok, Tandoori, Carving Station, and assorted Sushi, along with new tastes like the Pinsa Romana, fresh Pasta, and Bao Buns. A feast for the eyes and the palate, the splendid brunch accompanied by a live music performance is the best way to celebrate the weekend with loved ones, towards the hotel's lush gardens and Manama views. As of 13 May, every Friday between 13:00-16:00 Per Person Price : BHD 35, including soft beverages, BHD 48, including the selected beverage package Reservations: 00973 17115500 diningreservations.bahrain@fourseasons.com

OHLALA

Fashion Picks Showing bare skin not your cup of tea? You can opt for a sheer dress or blouse to wear over a cropped top or bralette. Brunello Cucinelli has a beautiful buttoned dress that adds extra oomph to a plain outfit.

A classy pair of pumps is mandatory in every sophisticated woman’s wardrobe. Aquazurra brings a transparent option with strategic details that can be teamed up with casual or formal outfits for a cool touch.

GAUZY DREAMS Transparency is everywhere – from sheer garments to see-through plastic accessories. Pick your favourite style and embrace this trend in your looks. The most audacious transparency goes to Coperni X Heven glass bags from the brand’s Autumn Winter 2022 collection. The sculptural accessories are a take from the New York-based glassware brand on Coperni’s signature oval-shaped Swipe bag.

BY FAR is betting on large belts in seethrough material, both clear and tinted in shades of brown, purple and green. A nice detail to add to your summer dress.

You can also add a touch of translucency to your small accessories. Celine offers a selection of cute bracelets that can add a funky touch to your summer wardrobe.

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Experience Maldives in Manama.

Wake up to the breathaking views of the Arabian Gulf and enjoy the ultimate retreat at one of our 3-bedroom seaside Villas. The villas are the perfect antidote for a stressful week at work or can serve as a holiday home to enjoy quality time with the family. For reservations, call +973 1758 0000 or visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain.

Bahrain residents rate starts from BHD 675++, offer is applicable for Villa reservations for up to 6 persons including in-villa breakfast. Offer is subject to availability, exclusive of taxes, gratuities, fees and other charges; does not apply to groups; cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion and is not applicable for Rewards redemption. Advance reservations are required. No refund or credit for unused portion. Void where prohibited. © 2022 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

STYLE

MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS

ETRO

BEACH VIBES

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It’s time to embrace the wanderlust in you. Summer is just around the corner and if your holiday escape includes beach and pool time, you don’t need to pack too much. Swimsuits, lightweight dresses, hats, raffia handbags and sunglasses are all you need. We envision the Greek islands and the Maldives in your future!

JOHANNA ORTIZ

VERSACE

MAX MARA

CELINE

ETRO

MAX MARA

KARL LAGERFELD

ERES

Trends

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI

NOON BY NOOR

MARINA RINALDI

PAUL SMITH

CELINE

Trends

KARL LAGERFELD

STYLE

CRUISING STYLE

ERES

TORY BURCH

CELINE

If your summer destination involves boats or cruises, incorporate the sailor style with navy blue, red and white stripes. The nautical theme is a warm-day favourite – if the weather gets a bit chilly, pair your shorts with long sleeves or throw a red puffy jacket on top of your outfit. We can picture you sailing in the Mediterranean waters.

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Uplifting Renewal and Instinctive Serenity The spa is a place to recover and rejuvenate and come out feeling renewed. We want you to leave the spa not only feeling better but having a fresh outlook on life, with new insights and a sense of clarity about where you are going, what you wish to accomplish, and what you value. Throughout June 2022 we invite you to relax, take time for yourself and enjoy a 120 minutes rejuvenating package that includes body scrub, body wrap, and Aspire massage for BHD 125 single package or BHD 250 for couples. Call +973 1717 1122 to book this package. Advance reservation is required.

STYLE

CITY SIGHTSEEING

WEEKEND MAX MARA

SPORTMAX

Relaxing by the water might not be your plan – it could be that you want to explore big cities and their cultural finds and maybe include some shopping and good food. Perhaps your stroll will happen in Rome or Berlin? This trip involves a lot of walking, so comfy trainers and sandals are a must-pack! Team them with summery midi dresses, bermudas and T-shirts for comfortable yet stylish outfits.

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MAX&CO.

CELINE

MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS

PAUL SMITH

MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION

ETRO

Trends

STYLE

LEEM MAX&CO.

JW ANDERSON AT FARFETCH

WEEKEND MAX MARA

ETRO

JOHANNA ORTIZ

BOTTEGA VENETA

MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION

Trends

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You may not go for a holiday trip per se, but will you have some days off during a business trip? Pack wisely – no matter if your trip happens in a big city or seaside. Select pieces that can go from formal meetings to more laid-back flair. Pick colourful elements to add some summery liveliness to white trousers and tops and add chunky accessories to give the looks a casual touch.

SPORTMAX

PURIFICACION GARCIA

SFERA

BUSINESS + LEISURE

STYLE

Focus

WHAT TO WEAR

ERES

WITH: SWIMSUIT 5

Your swimwear can double as a versatile top when packing light for a summer escape. This Eres black piece will do the trick! 1. Wear your bathing costume under a colourful and summery suit. Stella McCartney mixed a tailored jacket with sporty trousers in light blue that perfectly translates the designer’s style. 2. Choose a lightweight midi skirt in a solid vibrant colour to pair with your timeless one-piece. This high-low skirt is from MAX&Co. summer collection. 3. High-waisted, tailored trousers or a mini-skirt can take you on a girls’ night-out. Team your look with this eye-catching one-stud mini bag from Valentino Garavani. 4. If you want a casual summer-ready look for a sunset stroll by the beach, opt for a comfy pair of denim shorts. These are from Celine. 5. Add a sophisticated touch to your plain swimsuit with this Weekend Max Mara scarf. You can tie it around your neck with a cute knot and opt for white, wide-legged trousers to finalise the look in grand style. 6. The piece can even compose a red carpet look. Emma Watson wore an Oscar de La Renta number that can easily be copied by wearing a black swimsuit and a layered, high-low tulle skirt for the same glamourous affect. 24

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Celebrate with us!

In villa celebrations at Al Areen Palace & Spa by Accor BHD 18 per net for adult BHD 8 per net for kids BHD 120 rental charge for a full day at a Villa with private pool. Food and beverage offer is valid for a minimum of 8 guests. Including cake, kids buffet with mini burgers, pizza, chicken fingers, fries, ice cream, barbeque, soft drinks, cotton candy and popcorn machine. Decoration package is available starting from BHD 40.

+973 17845000 www.alareenpalace.com

@alareenpalaceandspa @alareenpalace.official

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ICYMI

Our round-up on the latest news in the fashion world brings a pre-loved retail experience, incredible art creations, a book and an appointed new designer. Read on to update your fashionista game!

Forever Loved

Hugo Boss is set to launch a premium resale platform – Hugo Boss Pre-Loved. The digital retail option will offer a curated assortment of clothing that existing customers have traded in after a complete quality check. A simple online process will allow clients to return used items in exchange for credit that can be spent online on new or pre-owned items or instore. The service will initially feature clothing, with accessories planned to be added in the future. The initiative supports Hugo Boss’ wide-ranging sustainability efforts. Buying second-hand saves an average of 44% of CO2 emissions when compared to buying new. Visit hugoboss.com and do your part in saving the Earth.

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OHLALA

ICYMI The Final Drop

Under the artistic direction of Japanese fashion designer Nigo, KENZO released the fourth and final drop in a series of limited-edition capsule collections for the brand’s spring and summer 2022 creations. The line revisits the poppy print from a contemporary point of view and features cotton poplin Hawaiian shirts and relaxed T-shirts in soft jersey, where the flower appears in single form as a print across the back, a Hawaiian shirt with an infinity poppy motif printed all over that comes with matching cotton drill shorts and a cotton viscose skirt. Single motifs appear on the pockets of a series of T-shirts and on the back pocket of cotton twill shorts. Next to the vibrant red, the capsule collection has retained white, black, navy and pink.

A Collector’s Case

Artist Johannes Wohnseifer has collaborated with German luxury fashion house MCM to create a DJ case exclusively available on koeniggalerie.com. Wohnseifer not only designed the case but also selected different items to fill it with. In addition to a collection of pieces from MCM’s history, it contains works that equally appeal to collectors of his art and MCM’s customers. Two artworks by Wohnseifer are part of the selection: a unique aluminium painting and photographic collage. A poster with motifs from the earliest MCM catalogues captures impressions from the brand’s history; as a new addition to the MCM Zoo, Wohnseifer has designed a leather toy giraffe. The case’s interior is lined with mirrored leather and orange mesh. As a reference to the label’s flagship store, an inner lid picks up the façade of the MCM building in Seoul. Finally, a metal card in a red and silver MCM leather case indicates the edition number of the DJ case.

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OHLALA

ICYMI Fashion History

Ralph Lauren announces the celebration of its most iconic product – the Polo Shirt – with Ralph Lauren’s Polo Shirt, a new coffee table book – you can explore a 3D version of it on Snapchat. The campaign reflects on the incredible cultural impact of the Polo Shirt over the past five decades. It reintroduces it to a new generation of consumers through a series of initiatives and installations, a sustainable, creative and customisable collection of Polo Shirts, immersive storytelling and more. Style your favourite item or share a fun memory across social platforms with the hashtag #MyPoloShirtStory and tag @PoloRalphLauren. Share your personal story and unlock an exclusive experience through an official Snapchat lens. The Polo Shirt is available at Ralph Lauren’s existing network of retail stores in the Middle East and their newly launched website www.ralphlauren.global.

A New Chapter

IBRAHIM KAMARA

British stylist Ibrahim Kamara joined Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh as the Art & Image Director. A believer in the romantic interchange between intellectuals about fashion, Ibrahim has been part of the Off-White family for years, styling their shows. He will now oversee the art and creative direction of the brand in this next chapter, further developing his influence and insight on the brand’s collections, image and content. Established in 2013, Off-White defines the grey area between black and white as a colour. Under the brand name, seasonal collections of men’s and women’s clothing, objects, furniture and publications articulate a current culture vision. The Italian label has expanded into the Middle East by opening new stores in the region.

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— PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL Have you decided where your next meeting will be? We have the right place for you.

MEMORABLE — Contact our team +973 17525200 Bqt.Diplomat@radissonblu.com

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JEWELLERY

Edit

A PLAYFUL SPIN ON LUXURY Characterised by movement and shapes, the iconic Possession collection by Maison Piaget is a symbol of joy. 32

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ince the launch of the spinning ring in the early 90s, Possession by Piaget has ‘made the world go round’ with its expanding line of rings, bracelets, earrings and necklaces. Each piece in the collection brings out the brand’s attention to detail, displaying the high-end jewellery and watch label’s daring creativity and artistic values. The unique craftsmanship of the master artisans continues to harness rare skills that have been preserved and perfected from generation to generation, transforming gold, stones and precious gems into dazzling works of art. An invitation to freely express your personality, the simple yet sophisticated Possession collection stands as a rallying symbol for a community eager to experience, explore and celebrate while being given a chance to tell its own story with style and elegance. Combining the classic beauty of gold with the vivid colours of high-quality stones, the collection allows you to stack, mix and match jewels. The possibilities are endless – the necklaces can be worn long or short and a vivid blue ring can be the perfect match for a bright green earring. The colours of these ornamental stones have always been very dear to the maison and pay tribute to its precious stones that are sourced with Piaget’s highly selective standards. This year’s new additions offer further opportunities to play – experience, explore, and celebrate, stack, mix and match. Sapphires, emeralds and rubies add vibrance and light to three new sets. And three new earring styles pair sparkling diamonds with the pure elegance of white and rose gold. All earrings are sold individually – buy one, two or four – be inventive! Piaget epitomises daring creativity – a quality that has continued to permeate through the maison since its beginnings in 1874. As a true innovator of the watch and jewellery world, Piaget strongly believes in creativity and artistic values. Through its pursuit of masterful craftsmanship, the brand has created emblems of excellence channelled into its many collections in addition to Possession, such as Altiplano, Piaget Polo, Limelight Gala, Piaget Sunlight, Piaget Rose and Extremely Piaget. Piaget collections are available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC) @piaget @bahrainjewellerycentre

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JEWELLERY

Edit

COLOURFUL

SILHOUETTES MARLI’s new Tip-Top collection displays a playful, carefree spirit, sporting the brand’s iconic pyramid gemstones in elegant hues.

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ARLI New York has launched the Tip-Top collection, an exciting addition to the brand’s existing versatile, contemporary jewellery. Honouring but reimagining conventional styles, the collection has a crisp aesthetic — one that lends itself to a sense of ease, designed to be layered, stacked or styled freely, but above all: unrestricted. The capsule features a fresh take on the traditional tennis bracelet among a full range of earrings, rings and necklaces. MARLI’s innovation and technique remain paramount, elevated by a colourful, playful spirit on display in the Tip-Top collection. The brand introduces iterations of the tennis bracelet with a variety of coloured, signature pyramid-shaped gemstones adorning both sides of the pieces. The inspired design also takes shape in the form of ear hugging hoops, studs, half-eternity band rings, pendants, tennis-style and long necklaces that you can mix and match for a complete MARLI look. Founded by Maral Artinian in 2014, MARLI New York is a global luxury jewellery brand known for its bold, architecturally inspired, versatile and sophisticated designs. Maral is a designer and entrepreneur hailing from a family whose history in fine jewellery goes back a century. Having lived in Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Maral was inevitably drawn to New York and inspired by the incredible energy and the amazing women who create it, she founded MARLI. Leveraging her deep industry knowledge and exceptional eye, Maral put her vision into motion, creating fine contemporary jewellery that uniquely captures New York’s magic and enables smart, accomplished women to express themselves. From her New York atelier, Maral has guided a fluid, minimal aesthetic that makes each MARLI piece visually distinct and innately alluring. MARLI New York collections are available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC). @marli @bahrainjewellerycentre

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MEANINGFUL DESIGNS AND

ARABIC ORIGINS The Middle East is home to many successful brands, and Damas Jewellery is one of them. With a strong presence in the region, we explore their history and plans for the future.

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BRAND

Spotlight

tories are part of everyone’s life and brands that build their legacy with a solid path, evolving with the years, are the ones we usually want to relate to and carry close to our hearts. That’s what Damas Jewellery has been doing to establish itself as a well-known name in the Jewellery scenario in the region. A brand that was born more than 100 years ago, in 1907, it has built a beautiful story over the years, creating connections with its clientele and understanding their ever-changing desires over the past century. We’ve taken a brief look at Damas’ legacy. In 1959, the jewellery house opened its original store at the Gold Souq in Dubai, the first of many. Well-known for its precious natural pearls, the Gulf region attracted a lot of attention and Damas is one of the names that helped it become a reference for these frosted little beads. The year 1973 marked the arrival of the label’s first diamond cutting machine for producing diamond-cut bangles and wedding bands. After two years, they introduced Italian-made diamond jewellery to the market and a new era of luxury began. In 1988 it was time to step up their game, with the launch of more lines such as Damas Classics, Vera, OneSixEight and Farfasha. The 2000s saw the label expand through the MENA region. In 2021, a new concept was born, the Bayt Damas. The impressive space is a lifestyle destination that brings together limited-edition luxurious jewellery pieces, art and fashion. All under one roof, creating a sophisticated home for creativity and craftsmanship. Lots of other remarkable achievements took place during this period, but the truth is that they all led Damas to become an established label with its eversought-after and unparalleled opulent Arabian aesthetic. They developed the astuteness of understanding their customers and their wishes with collections that suit the Middle Eastern culture and traditions, bringing, in recent years, a contemporary twist for those looking for edgy and modern pieces. Damas is today one of the most recognisable jewellers in the Middle East, with over 150 locations. A triumph that not many brands can celebrate. Two years ago, Damas embarked on a transformational journey with the motto of ‘from the region to the region’. Reinforcing its status as a house of jewellery design rooted in the Middle East, it now offers today’s women a unique customer experience. As part of this revamping process, they are consolidating their DNA and long-established storytelling skills. However, evolving is part of the process, and without losing their Arabic heritage and identity, they are investing in design-led collections based on worldwide and local jewellery trends – always keeping the Arab woman as the main inspiration, offering creations that instil happiness, empowerment and confidence. The brand provides authenticity and creative designs that genuinely represent the intrinsic heritage of the Arabic culture mixed with trendy elements. The creations are locals’ favourite picks, but expats who want to take a piece of the region with them currently choose Damas pieces that will become heirlooms and pass from generation to generation together with the stories of a life lived in the desert. www.ohlala-magazine.com

BRAND

Spotlight

The Power of Growing During the opening of the new Damas Jewellery store, the OHLALA team had the chance to talk to CEO, Luc Perramond, about his role in the brand’s transformation.

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“We want to create jewellery collections that have a strong affinity with the tastes and preferences of our clients.” – Luc Perramond OHLALA - You have had an extensive career in the luxury world, mainly in the jewellery and watch fields. How do you see your experience reflected in the work you are developing at Damas since you joined the company in 2020? Luc Perramond - I think my experience has been very helpful because Damas has been on a transformation journey. The work that I have done with big luxury names previously has given me the necessary background, especially, I would say, with my experience at Hermès. I was with them for six years. My knowledge is really helping to transform the Damas brand, build the equity, build the image and create a DNA that is desirable for our customers individually. OHLALA - What key aspects do you want to highlight at Damas? What are the most important core values of the brand? Luc - When I joined Damas, I did some research. I spoke with our clients and asked them: What does Damas stand for, for you today? And the answer was very consistent. It was quality, service and trust. Because we have a long-lasting relationship with our customers and they trust us, they trust the brand. A crucial aspect in the jewellery field, because when you buy a diamond, you want to make sure the brand stands behind it. These are core values which are very important, but we needed to add the values of creativity and innovation. Because the brand is well-known and well-liked, still, it was a bit classical, conservative and conventional. We had to bring a new dimension of creativity and innovation to the products, stores and customer experience to build desirability, as the key requirement in our business is to be desirable. We want our customers to connect with the label and, to do that, we need to bring newness to product design, in the way of wearing the jewellery, the use of colours and the storytelling. And we need stores which also express our identity, spaces that are comfortable but modern and elegant at the same time. OHLALA - What distinguishes Damas from other jewellery houses? Luc - I believe that the USP (Unique Selling Proposition) for Damas is very clear. We are from the Middle East, for the Middle East. Our roots are here; the brand started in Damascus in 1907. And then we developed the business from Dubai into the UAE, then all of the GCC, over the years. But our USP is that our roots are in the Middle East and we understand the Arab customer. Our primary customers today are local Arabs or Arab expats. And we know them better than anybody. We want to create jewellery collections that have a strong affinity with the tastes and preferences of our clients. To connect with them subtly but also deeply, we want them to feel that all we do is for them. Many of our collections are inspired by Arabic architecture, the mosque dome, the Arabic alphabet and lace. So, a lot of stories, a

lot of inspiration come from Arabic culture. And therefore, I think it resonates very well with our customers; they can identify themselves and connect with Damas. OHLALA - In a few words, can you tell us the transformation that Damas has gone through as a brand in the past years? Luc - The past two years have been very exciting. We have taken the brand through a very fast reinvention and transformation in all aspects, where you have to ensure that everything is consistent. For instance, we decided that all creations should be developed in-house with our team of designers. So, every collection is exclusive to Damas. We don’t sell generic jewellery that you can find anywhere – each of them comes with original storytelling. And then there is the store design and you also have to think of the staff; they need to be trained and understand the brand’s vision. It’s a lot of work to build a good experience for the client. We also believe in the power of communication – you need to reach out to all your clients. We have several million customers in the Middle East. We are a big brand with a footprint of more than 150 stores. So, communication is key. We are very active in all social media channels, whether Instagram, Facebook or TikTok. We have 1.3 million followers and the engagement rate is very high. They follow us, they like our content and we communicate in a very intensive way with them. We now have more younger clients and more women who buy for themselves. We used to sell Damas products as gifts, but now we see that women buy for themselves. They are empowered; they are independent and much younger. OHLALA - How do you see the jewellery market in the region, and what are Damas’ plans for the future? Luc - The jewellery market is very promising. I think it’s a growing category. Especially branded jewellery will continue to grow faster than non-branded options. And that’s why it’s important to strengthen our brand, to show that Damas is a powerful name. And to be more and more desirable because people want the brand to stand behind the product. And that’s the future, which is wonderful for us because we are a regional brand; there is no competition. And we offer a great alternative to all the international brands. We have a unique position to take. We will continue to have this more elevated kind of offer for our clients; we will roll out our new concept, open new stores and be very creative product-wise. Last year, we started launching two new collections every month. We are very active in terms of creativity. It’s important to surprise our clients and bring them new designs, new offerings, new ways to wear the jewellery, new colours, etc. We build new stories all the time. Our competitors might introduce two lines every year – we do two every month!

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THE CREATIVE SET

To get an insight into the jewellery creation process, we spoke to Myreine Massih, Damas Group Marketing, Communication & Creative Director.

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OHLALA - How do you balance all the positions that you hold in Damas? And, from your point of view, how are they related? Myreine Massih - The way I see it, marketing, communication, and creativity/design are intrinsically related. It all starts with the client’s desires and needs, concerns and behaviours. The design comes next, bringing to our clientele expert craftsmanship using the most exquisite materials. Communication and marketing follow, catering to our audience on all online and offline platforms and making sure their wishes for their jewellery and personal lives are reflected both in the product as well as in the story, inspiration and creative direction. I am able to balance all of these aspects well because I realise this and I aim to merge the three by ensuring that all our messages and creations are aligned, reflecting Damas’ vision and values and having the client at their very core. OHLALA - Do you believe that your strong managing skills and communication awareness help to give focus to your creative director role? Would you say that the creations end up closer to customers’ expectations? Myreine - Absolutely. My management style is reflective of my passion for the ever-climbing success of Damas as a brand, the industry and the clients, of course. I aim to ensure that Damas functions are like a well-oiled ship, giving each person in the company the freedom to express themselves and bring their well-earned experience and expertise to the core of our designs and communication. Where our creations do not fulfil our clients’ expectations, they go above and beyond, bringing a distinct edge in terms of the overall brand experience and the products themselves. For example, we have introduced the first evolved diamond to the region, starting from a diamond seed and developed in a lab, to bring clients a taste of the future and scientific advances. I can list so many other areas and cases in which we have surpassed clients’ expectations, thanks to our continual striving for excellence, innovation and industry disruption.

OHLALA - Can you tell us about Damas’ collections and what they stand for? What is your main source of inspiration? Myreine - At its core, our main source of inspiration for all our collections is, put quite simply, women and everything they represent. We believe that women of the world and the region deserve to be continuously celebrated and their achievements acknowledged as ones that are not only necessarily in theory, but also intrinsically linked to the advancement of society and the world. We aim to give the modern woman, with all our designs and creations, a reason to celebrate, feel precious, special and empowered – to feel their best and be the most authentic, genuine and elevated version of themselves and carry these feelings of empowerment with them in all their endeavours. To name a few of our latest collections, we have Farfasha, Dome, Lace, Gaia and, our most iconic, Alif. OHLALA - Can you describe each collection? Myreine - Farfasha is a legacy collection – celebrating femininity with every new iteration. Its source of inspiration is nature, with all its radiant and soft colours and elements. The latest Farfasha line uses the Arfaj flower, also known as the daisy of the desert. Dome is a richly diverse collection, inspiring awe and wonder with its dome-shaped, diamondencrusted pieces and reflections of the region’s majestic and heritage buildings, palaces and mosques. Lace is another of our most well-loved designs, representing the intricacies and underlying architecture present in nature and Arabic culture. Gaia is our evolved diamond collection, originating from a diamond seed and developed in a lab, preserving all the top indicators of quality: cut, clarity, colour and carat. A truly innovative diamond, Gaia aims to bring to our clients supreme quality without the environmental toll of mining. Following the GIA standards and certified by HRD, Gaia is a diamond for the future-minded among us. Finally, Alif is our most iconic flagship collection. Inspired by the first letter of the alphabet and representing the origin and beginning of all things, Alif is our core collection, symbolising women’s empowerment and independence. OHLALA - How essential is it to Damas to promote women’s empowerment? Is it one of the aspects of the brand’s values? Myreine - Damas’ core vision is to make women feel empowered, unique and exquisite, we are able to achieve that thanks to our understanding of women’s goals, dreams and desires. We believe that happy, confident and strong women are the future. We aim to make women feel better and express themselves with expertly crafted jewellery using the most coveted and luxurious materials. In the same vein, we aim to become the ultimate house of jewellery design in the Middle East and continue delivering an unparalleled customer-centric experience, from product design to retention. Similarly, we intend to delight all women with our collections, conceiving and crafting them with stories of real women in mind. Each new edition and iteration of our jewellery addresses a different aspect and quality of women, who remain our main source of inspiration in all that we do. As the choice house of jewellery design from the region for the region, we believe our edge is in understanding and catering to Arab women exceptionally well. @damasjewellery

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OHLALA

Beauty Picks

Dolce&Gabbana Felineyes Intense Eyeshadow Quad Smoky Taupe

Benefit They’re Real! Extreme Precision Liner

Eyes on the

PRIZE Masks are practically gone, but the eyes are still one of the first things people notice and connect with when talking to you. So when travelling light, make sure you at least take some eye make-up with you to make them pop!

Lancôme Le Stylo Waterproof Eyeliner Noir Intense

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MAC Stack Mascara Micro Brush

make it memorable

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BEAUTY

Focus

Radiant Femininity Presented in a petal pink bottle and reflecting floral notes, NARCISO eau de parfum cristal is a tribute to a woman’s radiant personality, natural beauty and sensuality.

arciso Rodriguez introduces NARCISO eau de parfum cristal, the luminous and addictive new fragrance in the iconic NARCISO collection. The scent is a tribute to radiant femininity, reflecting the inner light of the NARCISO woman, just as the facets of a crystal radiate light to reveal its natural beauty. Having radiant top notes, a pure and delicate heart and sensual drydown, the aroma awakens with bergamot, which illuminates a lush bouquet of upcycled rose and white floral accords. The fragrance gradually unfurls to a voluptuous drydown with the iconic heart of musk, the unmistakable signature of NARCISO fragrances. The musk is enhanced with elegant woody and amber facets of sensuous cedarwood and cashmeran, giving the perfume a mysterious, diffusive trail. A Natural Vision A sublime alchemy of lightness and depth, NARCISO eau de parfum cristal introduces a new standard of naturality, with more than 85% of its ingredients sourced naturally. In her first collaboration with Narciso Rodriguez, perfumer Natalie Gracia-Cetto brings her expertise in working with natural ingredients, as well as her vision for a more sustainable approach to perfumery. Natalie chose a bergamot ethically-sourced from Italy, and a rose note sourced using a new upcycling process of distillation, which recovers olfactive components from distillation water to create a floral note that evokes the smell of the fresh rose. Sheer and Luminous Immaculately packaged, the iconic NARCISO bottle is made with transparent glass tinted a delicate pink, revealing the clear scent within. Sharing the signature silhouette of the NARCISO collection, an ethereal glow emanates from within the translucent glass cube, its graphic lines reflecting light like the facets of a natural crystal and it’s finished with a contrasting matte pink cap. The NARCISO fragrance collection celebrates the art of seduction, each scent defined by the enveloping heart of musk and iconic woody signature yet transformed through unique variations in their compositions. Like its predecessors, NARCISO eau de parfum cristal explores your most intimate self. @narciso_rodriguez

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Beauty On Board The summer season summons the jet-set lifestyle. Melissa Nazareth assembles a list of beauty dos and don’ts to keep your hair and skin in check during and after travel. 46

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BEAUTY

Column

DOS AND DON’TS Dr Mariam Baqi, a dermatologist, believes hair and skin care depends on the duration of the travel and destination. However, she offers some general tips. “Don’t forget your cleanser and SPF,” she says, adding that they’re more important than night creams. Why? Travel usually includes going out and about a lot, this causes perspiration, especially during summer, which must be properly cleaned at the end of the day. She also recommends avoiding make-up and encourages keeping your skin clean and fresh. Dermatologist, Dr Ranya Kayed, insists on not skipping sunscreen. “Don’t forget to renew every two to three hours,” she adds. “My secret tip is to use a multifunction cream to reduce the number of steps — for example, a moisturising sunblock.” Most of us complain of frizzy, dull and dry hair after a vacation. There could be many reasons for this, and Dr Mariam warns against a major one. “I really recommend avoiding hotel shampoos as they dry your scalp and hair,” she says. She also advises using argan hair oil spray, which is widely available, easy to apply and penetrates the hair shaft, the visible part of the hair that sticks out of the skin. So, even if you must use the hotel shampoos, it compensates.

fter two years of being homebound, you must be busy planning your first vacation post lockdowns. In fact, you might even be planning your second. While you deserve to go all out and indulge, don’t forget your hair and skin care routines while you’re at it. The best results are achieved when you’re consistent all year round. However, there are some things that you must be mindful of and do specifically while you’re travelling and soon after you’re back to ensure your hair and skin are protected and nourished. Dehydration is a common travel peeve and can damage your hair and skin, in addition to making you feel sluggish and irritable – not really the feelings you want to have on a holiday. Cabin pressure, long transits and, as a practice, drinking less water are some of the major causes. In addition to the most obvious solution – drinking water – there are other simple tips you can follow to ensure you stay hydrated throughout. Rachna Bhatia, an account manager and avid traveller, says: “I usually wear a light layer of hydrating face mask or my regular moisturiser mixed with a drop of face oil and a lip balm.” She never boards a flight without her sunscreen, day and night moisturiser, hair mask and leave-in conditioner. An events manager by profession, Faheeda Fahdad travels extensively for work. Passionate about literature and culture, she loves exploring new countries on her own, too. “Although I am a coffee addict, I don’t drink it or sugary liquids when I am flying,” she says. She replaces it with water and has a fruit salad if craving something sweet, adding: “Always carry a bottle of water and refill on the go. Set alarms to hydrate yourself if you have a busy schedule, and don’t forget to splash some water on your face when you get the chance.” Faheeda’s travel kit essentials include, for her skin: snail solution serum and cleanser, apricot scrub, rose oil and saffron youth dew moisturiser; and for her hair: rose-argan-coconut milk leave-in conditioner, gooseberry serum and Japanese blossom mask. www.ohlala-magazine.com

BEAUTY

Column

REVIVING ROUTINES Dr Mariam believes that most hair care happens once you’re back from your trip rather than during it. “Use oil masks on the tips and nourishing masks on the scalp,” she says, adding that those with an oily scalp could stick to aloe vera masks while those with combination scalp could go for avocado and coffee masks. Dr Mariam advises practising these hair care routines every week along with a balanced diet and lifestyle. Dr Ranya recommends face masks as an excellent option to revive your skin, especially when you want to glow without make-up. She advises hydrating your skin and massaging your scalp as part of your beauty routine. TRAVELLERS’ TIPS Faheeda has combination skin, and she uses a scrub on her face every other day. “I always carry chickpea powder in a little sachet,” she says. “It works wonders on the skin when used with water, especially if you have clogged pores. She also wears minimal make-up while on the go. “My hair always bears the brunt of my constant travelling and irregular sleep patterns,” she says, adding that she uses a hair mask every other day to maintain the volume and texture. “I air dry my hair and don’t use excessive heat. My hair does tend to get frizzy at times, and there are two products I swear by – my gooseberry serum and a milk-based conditioning spray. They smell divine, and I buy them in travel sizes, so they’re easy to carry in my backpack.” Rachna usually carries a travel-sized, salon recommended treatment shampoo, mask and conditioner, as well as a leave-in conditioner or a hair serum and for her skin, a dermatologist recommended face wash, serum, moisturiser and sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 50. She suggests using a sheet mask or a retinol-based night cream before bed. Connect with Dr Mariam Al Baqi @drmariamb, Dr Ranya Kayed @dr_ranya_bh, Faheeda Fahad @thetravellingreader and Rachna Bhatia @racz_b.

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SATURDAY 18 JUNE

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HERE COMES THE BRIDE Is your big day approaching? Fernanda Langhammer had the pleasure to try some of Dessange Paris Bahrain’s unique treatments and services in their Bridal Package that will make your wedding day even more special.

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BEAUTY

Boutique

didn’t have a big celebration for my wedding, and a big party was never something I ever wanted; however, I do regret not having a bride’s day. Even if you don’t go through the stress of planning every detail of a big event, you still want to be pampered and look stunning in this special moment of your life. So, if I can give you one piece of advice, make sure you book a bridal package, you won’t regret it. And I can’t think of a better place to fulfil this bridal wish than Dessange. The beauty haven is dedicated to ladies’ wellness and beauty and will make all your demands and pampering dreams come true. The Dessange Bridal Package includes a pre-consultation session to discuss hairstyle and a half-face make-up trial, a package with four sessions of hair treatment, hair colour or highlights, hands and feet paraffin treatment, manicure and pedicure, eyebrow threading, Moroccan Bath, bride’s make-up and hairstyling and make-up and hairstyling for an additional person. What else could you ask for? During my visit, I got to try the Moroccan Bath and experience full-on bridal make-up. As usual, Dessange is always surprising me with firsts and, even though I have been living in Bahrain for more than 10 years, I have never had a Hammam or any sort of cleaning bath before. This meant that despite reading and hearing my friends talking about it, I had no idea of what to expect.

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At Dessange, they have two special chambers dedicated to this practice – which is widely known and embraced in the Islamic world. The private spaces recreate a mini bathhouse covered in tiles with a fixed tile bed in the centre. On top, a waterproof cushion is covered with a plastic film, so you don’t lay on a hard surface while keeping the experience as hygienic as possible. This ritual is known in the Eastern communities for its deep detoxifying effect on your body and soul. It is said to clean your skin and remove both body and mental toxins. I couldn’t have been more excited to try this ancient practice to which Dessange adds its own twist with a modern approach. Niji, my smiley therapist, asked me to remove my fluffy robe before we entered the special room. The intensity of the steam inside was a bit unexpected for me as I can say that I am a bit claustrophobic at times, but Niji calmly told me that I would get used to the fogginess and if I didn’t feel comfortable for any reason, she could make it less intense. Her words really made me relax and she was actually right, after a while I did get used to the steam and it didn’t bother me at all. The treatment started with a foot ritual before lying down on the ‘altar’ bed. Dessange has partnered with The Jamila organic beauty products, an award-winning and certified international skincare brand, for their Hammam therapies. Nothing is better than going on a purifying journey in the company of natural products. Niji started by washing my whole body with soft black soap – I felt like a baby – I don’t even remember the last time someone gave me a full body wash, most probably my mum, many years ago. She then applied a hair mask from The Jamila line with argan oil, sweet almond oil and sesame oil combined with essential lavender, rosemary, cedarwood, horsetail and ylang-ylang oils. She covered my hair with a cap and left it nourishing my tresses.

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BEAUTY

Boutique

She then put on my personal Dessange glove (one that I have to bring on my future visits) and started scrubbing my whole body. The glove is abrasive and as it was my first time, I asked her to reduce the pressure as it felt like it was too strong for my skin. She found the right pressure and kept rubbing my whole body. The result? Lots and lots of dead skin rolling away. I was shocked to see all the impurities and yuckiness that were removed. It was time for a shower to wash away all the dead skin and then back to my bed for a proper hair wash. I don’t know about you, but it was the first time I had my hair washed while lying completely flat. What a different experience! I really enjoyed that, to be honest. Niji removed the shampoo and this feeling of having water everywhere and not having to worry to dry it out was also pretty awesome. My treatment was done, my skin was incredibly soft, and I felt like a few kilos had been taken off me. How many years without having a proper body cleansing? I don’t even want to think about it. I thanked Niji and moved to the salon area. After revamping my body and soul, it was time to transform my face. Ullya, the make-up artist and microblading specialist, started by explaining that bridal make-up is different from a regular party up-do. It requires a special touch, highlighting the best features and creating a perfect frame that is going to be immortalised in photos and everyone’s memories. The bride

is without doubt the star of the show and she deserves to stand out. Ullya started working on my eyes/eyebrows, I am not a make-up expert, but I believe the eye area is the part that needs more attention and ends up getting more layers and details. After a while, she covered my complexion imperfections and, as an artist with many brushes and paint, she added all the final details. The eyelashes were added in small groups to get the right amount and proper length. It was wonderful to see the many tools and make-up options she had available. I felt as if my face was a canvas where she was working on a masterpiece. She is definitely a very talented makeup artist, and my enhanced look was attracting all the possible attention. I only tried two of the long list of treatments and services in the Bridal Package and I felt great! I can only imagine how wonderful one would feel after doing them all. You can book this special session for yourself, but this could also be a wonderful wedding gift to the lucky bride. For more information or to book an appointment, please call Dessange Paris Bahrain on 1771 3999. @dessangebahrain

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OHLALA

Voices

Celebrating New Heights This month, OHLALA had a chat with Carolina Campita about her new position as Associate Director of Public Relations and Marketing at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, her career and life.

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“Don’t let self-doubt stop you from reaching your dreams. Embrace the challenges that come your way, as they will make you stronger.” – Carolina Campita OHLALA - How long have you been working in the hospitality business, and how did you end up going in this direction? Carolina Campita - I have been in this industry for 11 years now. However, I was not always in marketing. When I joined The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, I started in the Reservations Department as an agent and then eventually became an Executive Reservation Services Administrator before I moved to marketing as a coordinator. I did not plan to move as I was not interested at first, but once I got the opportunity to start content creation for the hotel, I loved every minute of it. It has been a rollercoaster but I wouldn’t change a thing. OHLALA - What are the things you enjoy most about your job, and what are the most challenging aspects? Carolina - I love the brand and its evolution, ensuring that it keeps up with the ever-changing demand of our guests. I also love that this job lets me grow as a person. I used to be an introvert and I never thought that I would be in public relations, but connecting with people became second nature to me and I love that I can attract guests through storytelling, making them want to come here to our property. Of course, it’s not easy and it takes a lot of time to create compelling content and run campaigns, but I love what I do and that makes all the difference. OHLALA - You recently got promoted. Can you tell us more about this new position? What are you looking forward to the most? Carolina - There is not much that has changed. The good thing about the company is that it prepares you for the next level, so I was already taking most of the responsibilities even before the promotion. I am also very grateful to my leader, Jeremy Canivet, the Executive Assistant Manager in charge of Sales, Marketing and PR, for giving me all the support throughout this transition. I believe that it is essential for anyone’s success to have the unwavering support of their leader, even our PR-minded General Manager, Bernard de Villele, has always been there for me. Of course, it will not be the same without my team, especially Victor Grafilo, Assistant E-Commerce Manager, who has been my right hand from the start. But I am very excited to continue elevating the hotel and keeping our position as the leading luxury resort on the island. OHLALA - Working with a brand like The Ritz-Carlton is a big responsibility. What do you do to keep focused, and how do you turn off work matters and relax? Carolina - Keeping a balance can be a challenge, but you have to find small joys in what you do. Sometimes, when it gets overwhelming, I have to remind myself that I have to live in

the moment and limit distractions. In this type of work, it is a must to establish a to-do list, otherwise, you will be lost with the never-ending demands of the job. Bear in mind that we have 14 food and beverage outlets, a spa, beach club, banquet spaces, 245 rooms, and 23 villas that I need to promote. It’s a lot of moving parts, so I also need to prioritise. At the end of the day, I disconnect and recharge for another adventure the next day. My dog, Max, helps. He is my stress buster. OHLALA - You are growing your career; what are your tips to other women wanting to succeed? Any special advice? Carolina - Define your goals and be passionate about them. One of the things that I learned moving up the ladder is that you have to make things happen for yourself. Don’t compare yourself with other people. Only compete with yourself instead. Vulnerability is not a weakness but rather a reliable tool to empower yourself more. Don’t let self-doubt stop you from reaching your dreams. Embrace the challenges that come your way, as they will make you stronger. Continuously learn and adapt accordingly. And, of course, love what you do! OHLALA - You have a privileged view from your ‘office’, working by the beach with awarded restaurants and facilities. However, do you have a favourite spot at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain? Carolina - Yes, you can call it privileged. When it gets overwhelming in the office, I just step out of the hotel, walk around the resort and come back refreshed. I also spend a few minutes, whenever I get the time, visiting our longstaying pink-feathered friends, the flamingos. They are so pretty and relaxing to watch. Restaurant-wise, I am fond of Mexican food, so you would always see me at Cantina Kahlo for a casual meal, and I also love Italian food, so I would occasionally dine at Primavera. The resort is massive, and I love exploring every corner. OHLALA - What do you like most about Bahrain? Carolina - Bahrain is laid-back and that is what I love about living here. Although a small island, Bahrain’s scenery is always vibrant and the people are incredible. I also feel safe here and although it has a liberal social climate, I would say the local culture is still preserved. I personally promote Bahrain to the international market as the Maldives of the Middle East. The only difference being Bahrain’s nightlife and culinary scenery are far more developed. @ritzcarltonbahrain

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OHLALA

Lookbook

Bye Bye Baby Amjad Khalil’s SS2022 haute couture collection, The Power of Goodbye, is an ode to olden times intertwined with contemporary flair. Amjad Khalil, a renowned Libyan fashion designer, embraces the message of feminine power and strength through tough times in his The Power of Goodbye collection. The designer challenges the meaning of ‘goodbye’, providing a positive view of the term and one that resonates with concepts of rebirth, empowerment and triumph. The haute couture collection displays 16 immaculate pieces boasting soft pastel hues like light blue and yellow, mixed with stronger shades such as pink, red, fuchsia and maroon to create bold and singular designs. Using a variety of trendy fabrics, including taffeta in special cuts and handmade embroidery, the brand makes each piece unique. The use of delicate streamlined silk chiffon enhances feminine gracefulness and beauty. The collection starts with stunning and sophisticated gowns that mix two different fabric textures, symbolising elegance through the combination of both modernity and classical designs. It is then followed by a series of creations presented in an antique setting, emphasising the contrast between old and modern to portray the rebirth of women from their old personas to their empowered selves. Amjad Khalil established the first Libyan haute couture bridal and evening dresses line. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree but decided to follow his heart thereafter and studied fashion design in London. Amjad started designing in 2011 and created his first collection in 2013. His haute couture collection was launched in 2018. Despite some challenges, he has established himself as one of the top designers locally and internationally. @amjadkhalilak

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Shop Now!

bathandbodyworksarabia • www.bathandbodyworks.com.bh bathbodyworksar • Customer Service: 8000-1320

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Spotlight

HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 PRO (CERAMIC EDITION)

OHLALA

STYLISH GADGETS FOR WOMEN HUAWEI have developed an impressive range of interconnectable fashion pieces designed especially for tech-savvy and fashionable ladies. We at OHLALA had the chance to test them out!

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HUAWEI P50 POCKET

HUAWEI FREEBUDS LIPSTICK

ech giants HUAWEI can, in part, attribute their ongoing success to their ability to cater for all consumer segments. They are now specifically stimulating women’s interest through a range of trendy and interconnected products designed to fulfil both their tech needs and fashionista desires. HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro (Ceramic Edition) The HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro is a combination of technology and art. The Ceramic Edition of this smartwatch exhibits a feminine yet durable design, with soft and elegant styling. It is assembled out of highend materials, features a 1.32-inch AMOLED HD colour display, and is finished off with fine polishing techniques. Sporting gold and silver accents, this sparkling device flaunts a beautifully crafted moon phase compilation, an exclusive flower dial with various dynamic effects, along with a scratch- and shatter-resistant sapphire glass lens. Furthermore, the ergonomic design of the trendy ceramic strap proved to be remarkably comfortable on the wrist. With increased features and functionality, the enhanced GT 3 Pro now offers expanded usage scenarios. It provides support for travelling, entertainment, gaming, fitness, health and general day-to-day life. It supports Bluetooth calls, remote shutters, music playback and reminders, such as emails and social media messages. And boasts an impressive battery life of up to seven days, with a full day’s usage resulting from a mere 10 minutes of wireless fast charging. Supporting Electrocardiogram (ECG) data collection means that this smartwatch can monitor and manage many of the body’s important functions, including heart rate, blood oxygen levels, respiratory health, sleeping patterns, blood pressure, and more. HUAWEI have also included more than 100 workout modes to select from. The HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro supports effortless compatibility and connectivity with other HUAWEI devices. Once connected with the HUAWEI P50 Pocket, you are able to control local applications via voice commands, both quickly and effectively. HUAWEI P50 Pocket Both exquisitely designed and fully compatible with the GT 3 Pro, is the aesthetically pleasing P50 Pocket. This innovative smartphone folds seamlessly with its all-new hinge design with perfect symmetry. Available in both White and Premium Gold colourways, this lightweight yet solid device is not only a fabulous fashion accessory, but the perfect size for a pocket or small handbag.

Sporting a 6.9-inch, high-quality display, a pixel density of 442ppi, a 120Hz refresh rate, along with the ability to render over a billion colours – media never looked so good on a smartphone. The P50, powered by EMUI 12, produces an innovative UI and offers 8GB RAM plus 256GB ROM. Combine all of this with an improved HUAWEI XD Pro image engine and Ultra Spectrum Image Technology, along with extensive battery life, and you have one impressive little gadget. Thanks to its Super Device features, the P50 Pocket offers multi-device collaboration with many other HUAWEI gadgets. These include both the GT 3 Pro and the FreeBuds Lipstick. This smartphone can also function as a wirelessly connected external storage unit for a PC. HUAWEI FreeBuds Lipstick The FreeBuds Lipstick is one of the latest earbud offerings from HUAWEI. A stylish black and gold charging case has been elegantly crafted to take on the appearance of an expensive lipstick. Weighing in at mere 4.1grams, the compact case even closes with a satisfying magnetic click. The FreeBuds feature 14.3mm LCP dynamic drivers, a frequency range of up to 40kHz, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) capabilities, and HUAWEI’s Adaptive Ear-Matching technology. All this ensures nothing less than a crystal-clear sound experience. Best of all, these FreeBuds are so comfortable and lightweight, that they can barely be felt in the ears. Capable of connecting with multiple devices simultaneously, including pairing with both the GT 3 Pro and the P50 Pocket, the buds show incredible practicality. These smart connectivity and AI-powered features work across all major platforms and you can switch seamlessly between devices, thanks to the intelligent audio connection. The impressive battery life offers four hours of continuous playback on a full charge, around 22 hours when combined with the fully charged case, and approximately 2.5 hours from a mere 15 minutes of charging. Better Together Individually these three devices are all impressive and capable in their own right. When combined, the functionality, practicality and options available from this tech ensemble are significantly increased as they work together to provide a perfectly interconnected experience. And topping it all, HUAWEI have produced these premium products in very pretty little packages. @huaweiarabia

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TREASURED

TRAVELS Whether you are back from a trip and have a whole lot of things you have no idea where to keep, are a travel enthusiast or even if you can’t go anywhere this summer and want to transform your home into your own private paradise, we’ve got you covered!

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OHLALA

Homes

une is the time of exciting expeditions, and this month, OHLALA Homes has got something special in store. Speaking to Aga Al Rumaihi of Aga Rumaihi Design and Concepts and Dina Murali of DZ Design, we give you the best guide to incorporating travel elements into your humble abode. Captured Memories We all know that the most exciting part about coming back from a trip is looking at those beautiful photographs. The tricky thing is, with loads of storage space in our phones and endless clicks, it’s simply a lot to rummage through. “I remember my parents developing their rolls of 35mm film, and each holiday would have its album,” says Aga. “Now that everything is digital, we take too many photos. I would suggest choosing two or three memories and printing them to frame. Perfect places for them would be a console or bookshelf. You can even hang them in organised groups on a larger wall. I often print out pictures in black and white. That way, they always work with any interior," she continues. “A carefully curated photo collection can make an interior look and feel more like home,” says Dina. “Put together a beautiful gallery wall in the main foyer of your home and simply create a conversation around it. As for hallways, passages, and staircases, they can also be used to display your travel memories, and they can be more inclusive and not intrusive.”

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AGA RUMAIHI DESIGN AND CONCEPTS

DZ DESIGN

Mementos Let’s face it, no matter how cluttered our homes are, we always like to bring back some souvenirs to remember our trip. By planning ahead, we can ensure that we get the ones that can complement our home the best. Both Aga and Dina recommend choosing handmade souvenirs and avoiding tacky mass-produced plastic options. It’s both sustainable and adds a unique touch. “They will look like small art pieces, and you can place them on your coffee tables and consoles,” says Aga. For Dina, vases are curiously alluring items you can bring back: “Personally, I like decorative vases and think they can define and integrate the space beautifully. Combined with photo frames and books, they can be displayed in various places.” She continues: “One of my clients collected books and had manuscripts of original novels and beautiful works of book art. For another client, I framed a wedding lehenga (Indian wedding skirt) as it was an heirloom in a large frame on the main dining wall. The most common items among Middle Eastern collectors are swords and carpets, which are usually displayed in the living room and majlis.” Just be careful not to overcrowd your home or have your objects clash.

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OHLALA

Homes

NULTY LIGHTING - PHOTO BY SIM CANETTY-CLARKE

Integrating Interiors When travelling to other parts of the world, we sometimes get inspired to incorporate certain cultural elements into our homes but get confused as to what would work well with Middle Eastern designs. Aga believes you should look at interiors of regions with warm climates, as they tend to have a more simplistic and airy style. She says that Italian design works well here because the scale of the furniture is perfect for the large interiors of this region. The style is elegant, minimalistic, and modern, which can work with any space. “I use natural materials,” she continues, “from matte wood to raw stones to genuine marble. Some people are afraid of natural materials, but I embrace their honesty. Every stain and scratch is a memory. My wooden kitchen table has a scratch-made by my daughter when she was two years old, confetti stains from a 2020 New Years’ Eve party, and many more memories to come.” Dina’s approach is more multifaceted. She says: “The Middle East is a melting pot of cultures. There is no one-size-fitsall. Your chandelier can be from Turkey, your homeware from Morocco, or your cushions from Vietnam. All of this, combined, creates a world map of your own home with so many possibilities for conversation.” Personal Paradise While the excitement is on for those looking forward to travelling again, there are still some of us that have to wait a bit longer. So why not bring the holiday to us at home? “Many people believe that the only way to relax is to travel,” says Aga. “However, if designed properly, your home can be the best place to unwind. Focus on functionality and a serene atmosphere, kind of like how you feel when you go on vacation and first enter a luxurious resort. The outdoor spaces have become critical due to recent events, and a little design and planning of these crucial areas go a long way and work wonders on our mental health,” she adds. “Getting a style or a theme you can relate to and creating avenues and spaces of interest within the same home has been an evolving trend,” explains Dina. “This came around effectively during the pandemic. Bedrooms and outdoor spaces took up the role of sanctuaries. To create interiors that reflect your travels, you need to be careful not to go too literal with the overall theme but rather use specific design features as subtle reminders and inspiration,” she finalises. Connect with Aga Al Rumaihi @aga.rumaihi and Dina Murali @dzdesignae

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TRAVEL

Escapes

A GLAMOUROUS ESCAPE TO MONACO The principality is known as a top-notch destination for the rich and famous. With striking architecture, sophisticated casinos, elegant dining spots, a high-end shopping scene, beautiful beaches and Formula One race cars taking to the city streets. Discover this small country and one of its most iconic hotels.

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The Principality of Monaco

Officially named the Principality of Monaco, this sovereign state is located in the midst of the Côte d’Azur. Bordered by France to the west, the north and the east, and by the Mediterranean Sea to the south, this enchanting location couldn’t be situated on a more desirable strip of real estate. With a size of just 2.1km/sq and a small population of under 39,000 (12,261 of which are millionaires), this exclusive location is the second smallest sovereign state in the world after Vatican City. Although French is the official language, English, Italian and Monégasque are also spoken by various residents. OHLALA magazine was invited by Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, to experience three days and nights at the world-renowned Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. Located on the escarpment at the base of the Maritime Alps along the French Riviera, in the most famous administrative area of Monaco, Monte-Carlo; we could not have been more delighted over this invitation.

Touching Down

After a comfortable six-and-a-half-hour flight, we touched down at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport in the early afternoon. Our lavish experience began soon after disembarking the aeroplane, with a luxury Mercedes, compliments of Hôtel de Paris, transferring us to the hotel. On route to our destination, we could already feel the captivating nature of the place, as we took in the mountain, beach and architectural views.

Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

Built in 1864, this fairy-tale venue recently underwent a €250 million transformation, to ensure it remains one of the most glamourous and sought-after hotel destinations in the world. Housing 209 rooms, including a variety of suites and newly modernised bedrooms, this uber-exclusive hotel has been designed to satisfy those who are used to an extravagant lifestyle. www.ohlala-magazine.com

With four lavish restaurants, a renowned lounge bar, a beautifully equipped wellness centre, celebrated cellars, a Rossano Ferretti Hair spa, along with the perfect central location, Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo is equipped to guarantee the most lavish of hotel experiences. Upon arrival we were greeted like royalty with professional staff members immediately attending to our every need. After a hassle-free check in, I soon found myself in my opulent bedroom, marvelling at the spectacular view from my balcony, overlooking the port of Monaco. Calcutta marble, Tussar silk and Pima cotton are amongst the precious materials used throughout the spacious accommodation. Expertly crafted wooden furniture and antique mirrors, along with light and modern decorative touches, all added to the room’s upmarket character. The inclusion of complimentary fresh fruits and pastries added a nice welcoming touch to my arrival.

Evening Beverage at Le Bar Américain

Making our way to the grand lobby for our evening aperitivo, we had to stop on several occasions to take in various aspects of the hotel’s magnificent design and décor. The open-air inner courtyard, Le Patio, is a perfect location to sit, relax and take in the splendour of the property. Entering Le Bar Américain, we felt as if we had been transported to the grandeur of the 1920s, with the bar itself looking like something out of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s, The Great Gatsby. Cosy ambiance and the sounds of a live blues band are what greeted us at this premium venue. Soft, fashionable lighting reveals the use of refined wooden surfaces, burnished leather furniture, deluxe décor and top-quality finishes, all of which add to the upmarket charm. The bar’s new terrace offers remarkable views of Place du Casino, Casino de Monte-Carlo, and the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. 76

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TRAVEL

Escapes

Dinner at Le Grill

After one of the best refreshments to ever touch our taste buds, it was time to further stimulate our palates at one of Hôtel de Paris’ iconic restaurants, Le Grill. Located on the eighth floor of the hotel, this Michelin-Starred restaurant features marine-inspired décor, Mediterranean gourmet cuisine and a view from the extended terrace that spans all the way to Corsica. The restaurant’s roof opens fully and the stars are only the beginning of Le Grill’s breathtaking evening view. Lights from the coasts of Monaco, France and Italy are all visible, along with the illuminated boats moored along the bay. Renowned chefs, Frank Cerutti and Patrick Laine, provide Le Grill with a wide assortment of meat and fish dishes, whilst Pastry Chef, Olivier Berger, has created an assortment of outstanding soufflés, a quintessential French culinary tradition in which we had to indulge. Thoroughly satisfied by our dining experience at Le Grill, it was time to retire to our wonderfully comfortable beds for the evening. A better night’s sleep would be hard to come by.

The Monaco Experience

THE LOUIS II STADIUM

The following morning, we headed out for an early walk around Monaco, to experience as much of this enchanting location as we possibly could. We began our adventure with a stroll along the world-famous Larvotto Beach in Monte-Carlo. After an hour of fresh sea air and phenomenal Rivera views, we turned our attention to the cities, taking in the exteriors of several famous monuments. These landmarks included the impressive Cathedral of Monaco built in 1875, the Oceanographic Museum, the Odeon Tower, The Louis II Stadium, The Grimaldi Forum and the Monte-Carlo Casino; a venue we would become better acquainted with at a later stage. We ended off our architectural tour with perhaps the most impressive building of them all, The Prince’s Palace of Monaco, the official residence of the Sovereign Prince. Constructed as far back as 1191, this fortress has a long, rich history and we could have spent all day taking in the intricate details of its design. Before heading back to the hotel, we had to take a walk along a section of the almost 3.5km circuit of the Monaco Grand Prix. Considered to be the jewel in the crown of the Formula One calendar, this famous stretch of road offers stunning views of the yacht-packed harbour, as well as the grand buildings of Monte-Carlo. With a plethora of scenic views, highstreet shopping locations and exclusive dining venues, Monaco has plenty to offer all those willing to shell out the Euros. www.ohlala-magazine.com

The Princess Grace Suite

After a quick yet scrumptious lunch at our new favourite aperitivo spot, Le Bar Américain, we headed for our specially organised tour of Hôtel de Paris’ world-famous Princess Grace Suite. The hotel's Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace suites are two of the finest hotel suites ever built and we got the chance to tour the new Princess Grace Suite. Inspired by the timeless elegance and delicate refinement of Princess Grace of Monaco, this 910sq/m suite is spread over two floors at the very top of the hotel. As we slowly made our way around the accommodation, taking in all the refined details, we appreciated the expertly crafted furniture, antique items and premium materials utilised throughout. Precious wood, mother-of-pearl, straw marquetry and agate panels all adorn this exceptional suite. The seventh floor contains a large bedroom, a bathroom with a deep tub, a steam shower and sauna, a beautifully crafted desk, two walk-in wardrobes, a spacious lounge and a private cellar. Making our way to the top of the exquisite marble staircase, the eighth floor revealed another gorgeous bedroom, a bathroom with tub and shower, as well as a living room and a dining room. From here, guests can access the sublime outdoor space. As we stood on the 440sq/m terrace, we marvelled at the majestic views of the Prince’s Palace and the Mediterranean Sea. A heated infinity pool, an outdoor lounge and a rare granite Jacuzzi, are all located in this deluxe outdoor area.

Casino de Monte-Carlo

CASINO DE MONTE-CARLO

Still processing the sheer magnificence of the Princess Grace Suite, we soon found ourselves on route to one of the most exciting stops on our itinerary, dinner at Le Train Bleu, in the heart of the world-famous Casino de Monte-Carlo. Established in 1863, Casino de Monte-Carlo, with its Belle Époque architecture, offers an exceptional selection of gaming and top-quality entertainment. One would struggle to find a more impressive and luxurious casino anywhere in the world. This famous venue is featured in not one but two Bond films: Never Say Never Again starring Sean Connery, and Goldeneye starring Pierce Brosnan. Frequented by celebrities from around the globe, this A-list destination could not be any more glamourous. As we made our way, wide eyed, towards Le Train Bleu, we attempted to take in all the sophistication and attention to detail poured into the building’s interior composition.

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TRAVEL

Escapes Dinner at Le Train Bleu

At Le Train Bleu, one can expect nothing less than the very best of everything. With its elegant and refined layout, we once again found ourselves rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous. The configuration of this exceptional venue is a reproduction of a premier restaurant car. All details, including the paintwork, wooden finishes and choice of colours, were selected to pay homage to the grandeur of Belle Époque-era passenger trains. Offering a gourmet take on fine Italian cuisine, we were hugely impressed by the quality and presentation of their culinary offerings. Designed to delight the most discerning of palates, the menu offers a wide array of painstakingly prepared, succulent dishes and decadent desserts. By the time our evening was through, we left the venue feeling like 007 himself, ticking off an item we hadn’t even dared add to our bucket lists.

Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo

After an exceptional second night’s sleep, we made our way to yet another remarkable Monacan location, Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo, for a day of health and pampering. This 6,600sq/m facility is dedicated to wellness, fitness and preventative health. It offers an assortment of treatments and is equipped with a wide range of technology designed to assist anti-ageing, slimming, health and performance. Thermes Marins houses a large terrace, a swimming pool, a steam room, a sauna, a bar/lounge area, an outdoor Jacuzzi, a solarium, a Hammam and a panoramic fitness room, amongst other exceptional amenities.

Dinner at Buddha Bar

After a few hours of deluxe down time at the hotel, it was time to satisfy our culinary cravings once more. As one of the most sought-after restaurants in Monaco, Buddha Bar Monte-Carlo is a spectacular venue showcasing a 7m-high ceiling, premium wood finishes, a gigantic Buddha statue, intricate cornices, beautiful gilding and many other exceptional features. Chef Éric Guillemaud is responsible for the menu consisting of Asian culinary delights from Japan, Thailand, China and Southeast Asia. He combines these delightful dishes with French culinary excellence, resulting in meals fit for royalty. Seated on one of the two open-air terraces, we thoroughly enjoyed our dinner, along with the subtle blend of chillout, lounge and world music provided by local icon, DJ Papa.

Time to Say Au Revoir

After a third night of blissful sleep, it was time to prepare for our journey home. On the flight back, we sat and reminisced over our oncein-a-lifetime adventure. From the exceptional Hôtel de Paris to all the spectacular views, meals and venues we were fortunate enough to experience, we could not have felt more satisfied and grateful to have undertaken this truly captivating journey. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.montecarlosbm.com

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LIFE IS MADE OF MEMORIES Embarking on a flavourful journey, OHLALA’s editor and her family dined at one of the most anticipated comebacks, the Friday Brunch at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. And the wait was definitely worth it!

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Eats

ravelling to different countries involves exploring local cuisines, trying unexpected combinations and expanding your food knowledge. At Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Friday Brunch, you get to travel to many different countries just by going to the next station. Authentic and contemporary twists are one step away from each other. We made sure to enjoy this palatefriendly trip that brought memories of past holidays and the excitement of sharing new flavours and creating unique moments in the beautiful Bahrain Bay Kitchen ambience. Our way down the stairs made us realise that the light entering the space was notably nicer that day; we were lucky enough to be sitting by the window with a view of the outside greenery contrasting with the blue water at the end of the live picture. To my happiness, the Bahrain Bay Kitchen looked exactly the same as I remembered it. The round columns and golden accents throughout the room excel in grandness, and the food stations are carefully arranged with enough space to spot what you want and to move around. Comfortable chairs and tables of the right size to fit all and the food samples complement this impressive space. As we sat, everyone’s big smile was the best kick-start to an enjoyable day that would enter our family’s best moments list. One of the things that I appreciated most at Four Seasons brunch was that all the stations were clearly identified with unique chalk writings, and there was a subtle division between them. It was not the usual unflattering dish after dish. All the Arabic creations were arranged near each other and decorated accordingly and likewise all the East Asian options available in the same area. My exploration strategy followed their floor plan, so if I wanted to explore the Italian delicacies, I would head to the site with pizzas and yummy types of pasta; how great is that? A genuine expedition into the world of food.

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CHIC

Eats

Talking about the Italian station, I have to highlight the freshly baked pizzas. You won’t find the regular round versions but more rustic looking ones with crispy dough and high-quality toppings in this Pinsa Romana pizza style which is a reinterpretation of an ancient Roman recipe. The smell was as delicious as the soft and yet crunchy dough – I love pizza dough – airy and full of flavour from its natural levitation. I decided to head to Peru and stopped at the live ceviche station. As you probably know, ceviche is a refreshing cold dish that brings a twist to raw fish. The two chefs at the cooking station were busy preparing the beautifully presented options available: the seabass marinated in classic Leche de Tigre (made with lime juice, onions, chillies, salt and pepper combined with the fish’s juices), a traditional option and one with red chilli paste; Nikkei salmon (an encounter between Japan and Peru bringing a tangy taste when adding South American flavours) with tamarind paste, bonito flakes and nori crackers; and shrimp with passion fruit, Ají Amarillo (popular Peruvian chilli) and crispy banana to add a crunch. The flavours, as expected, were divine, mixing intense juices and textures. It was an exciting live cooking station and probably unique to Four Seasons’ brunch in Bahrain. I even had the chance to use my poor Spanish to talk to the Peruvian chef. Moving to the Levantine region, my favourite part was the Fatteh station. The word fatteh means crumbles and mixes pieces of toasted flatbread, yoghurt, mint, olive oil and chickpeas. And as you can imagine, you can prepare your own version at the station, adding the ingredients you like the most.

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Meat lovers (such as my husband) have so many options that you have to be selective and start with your preferred cuts; otherwise, you won’t eat them all. He loves ribs, so he went for the Barbeque Short Ribs, and the flesh was easily coming off the bones in succulent pieces that he devoured with pleasure. The Slow Roasted Wagyu Rump was one of his other options, and he barely had words to say how soft and well-flavoured the slice of meat was – simply seasoned yet cooked to perfection and bringing out the taste of such a highquality cut of meat. My six-year-old was excited about the kids’ corner. All the food is available at their height, which is well-thought-out; this way, they can see the food and choose their preferred bites independently. From mac and cheese, mini burgers, fries, and steamed broccoli to popcorn and doughnuts hung on a funky wall. He went for a plate full of broccoli and popcorn – weird taste buds, I know. If you are a seafood enthusiast, the selection is vast, with shrimps, lobster, mussels and fresh oysters displayed in a bed of ice that make them look very appealing. Sushi, bao buns, dumplings and a wok station complement the Asian spread. And, one of the most impressive areas is where countries such as France, Italy, Switzerland and Spain meet, represented by their impeccable cheeses. My teenage daughter went on a mission and grabbed one small piece of each; what a beautiful plate she had, paired with fruits and nuts.

And what is a brunch without eye-catching desserts? Another worldwide degustation journey with Blonde Chocolate Brownie, Crême Brûlée, Saffron Rice Pudding, Mango & Coconut Torta, Cherry Pavlova, Tiramisu, Cannoli, Japanese Cheesecake, Arabic sweets and a variety of cakes surrounded by mini samples of the beautiful creations and more, much more – all beautifully displayed and finely decorated in stunning designs. So difficult to choose! We got a few options and shared them. Our favourite bites (from our small selection) were the Crême Brûlée, Japanese Cheesecake and Florencia ice cream – the island’s beloved home brand had a parked pushcart near the kids’ corner. But the experience does not end with the food. Refreshing drinks are available near the freshly-cut fruits, and we unanimously approved the passion fruit lemonade that was served in cute little bottles. You can also order specific drinks from the attentive staff, who constantly check if everything is fine with big smiles and a helpful attitude to attend to any personal requests. To complete the memorable experience, live music with Latin and pop tunes and the nice touch of bringing a talented magician to entertain the diners. He came to our table, and we couldn’t believe our eyes and senses with his impressive tricks – he left us, especially my son, speechless. The Four Seasons gourmet brunch is the perfect choice for those looking for a high-end and wholesome experience – best shared with family and friends. We ended our delightful afternoon by walking in the garden for some family photos and stunning views. Are you looking for a delectable feast and a unique experience in town? The Friday Brunch will take you on an unforgettable and unexpected flavour trip with no uncomfortable planes or jet lag. For more information or to make a reservation, please call Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay on 1711 5500 or email diningreservations.bahrain@fourseasons.com @fsbahrain

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Fit to DAZZLE

Dining with a sea view is what you experience at The Bistro by Origins at Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain. Amal Sarhan truly enjoyed the view while tasting their newly launched menu. 84

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Eats

f you’re looking for a good meal with family or friends in a laid-back yet luxurious atmosphere, head over to The Bistro by Origins at the new Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain. Having been there before, I was excited to come back and try their brand-new menu. As I walked up the steps to the restaurant with my dining companion, we were greeted by familiar faces who welcomed us to our table by the window. I looked around and spotted families having their Saturday lunch together as they enjoyed the views of the sea and the bright sun pouring into the restaurant, its white interiors reflecting the light and filling the room. As we sat down, we were served some refreshing cocktails specifically made for us by the restaurant’s bartender, Shibin. While my companion sipped on a watermelon drink, I enjoyed a tall glass of pina colada, just without the cream. The freshness of the pineapple offered a light and smooth texture to the tongue and was much needed after my long drive.

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Eats

The watermelon drink was equally revitalising, made with a tinge of lime juice and decorated with fresh orange peel that had its scent fluttering in the air as it was placed on the table. Next, Shibin’s classic Chocolate Special was a delight to our taste buds. Strong and gooey with cocoa syrup and white chocolate and foaming with milk, it only left us wanting more. Next came a Sour Twist. As soon as I saw the drink approaching, I was dazzled by the colours – pink at the bottom and fading into orange at the top. This tangy drink offered a strong and sour flavour with the tastes of orange and strawberry complementing each other so well and a hint of muddled basil offering that peppery aftertaste. Last but not least, and my absolute favourite, was the Mango and Ginger Mocktail. Inspired by Indian flavours, this must-have drink was simply to die for. I could hardly keep myself from slurping the whole thing up before my dining companion could have a taste. The mocktail was infused with fresh mango puree, ginger ale, condensed apple cider, agave nectar and aloe vera juice extract, and garnished with mint leaves, a refreshing and creative combination. Just as we were getting slightly hungry, the lovely Beetroot and Blackberry Salad landed on our table. Flaunting a vibrant mix of colours and garnished with goat cheese on toasted brioche slices, the dish was a light yet flavoursome start to our meal. With both cooked and raw beetroot, the salad offered a multitude of tastes, from the sweetness of the root vegetable to the sourness of the berries and the pungent kick of goat cheese. To balance it all out, rocket leaves were enveloped into the dish and classic balsamic vinegar brought it all together. Next came the Pan Seared Foie Gras. I was expecting a strong and dense flavour, not only did it feel lighter than I imagined, but the fresh slices of green apples and the slight drizzle of maple syrup and rock salt made it a much more pleasurable experience. On the side was a slice of brioche baked with slices of red apples and whole green grapes and topped with rocket leaves and thin strips of fresh pear, offering the perfect complement to the foie gras.

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We were thereafter beckoned by the approaching aroma of the Casserole De La Mer, a baked seafood gratin with salmon, squid, mussels and shrimps, topped with fresh herbs and breadcrumbs. Digging in, we found the rich, creamy texture and the crunch of the breadcrumbs to be tantalising, not to mention the taste of finely chopped peppers adding a tinge of sweetness to the dish. And the side of garden salad served as a good pairing. As we were savouring this seafood sensation, the Homemade Ravioli arrived, garnished with parsley and grilled portobello mushrooms. Eaten with the cherry tomatoes and burrata cheese that garnished the dish, it gave us that cosy feeling, fitting well with the name. Having had all these lovely starters, we were excited to see what the mains would offer. My companion was served with the Entrecote Beurre Maitre D’Hotel, an Angus ribeye cooked with lemon juice topped with fresh parsley and a piece of melting butter and served with truffle fries, while I got the Crevettes Grilles, grilled jumbo prawns with mango and Espelette chilli salsa and fresh basil. The beef dish had a perfect balance of meaty texture and light taste. It was soft and not too chewy, easy to eat and not too heavy. My prawns were equally good. Sprinkled with pepper and lovely mango sauce, the dish was light to eat and had a good balance of flavour. Last but not least was the dessert. From what I had experienced before, I couldn’t wait for this part. New on the menu were the Tarte Fine Aux Pommes and the Pineapple Carpaccio. Not knowing what to try first, I chose to pierce my fork into those glittering pineapple slices marinated in syrup and garnished with basil, stealing a bit of the freshly made coconut ice cream in the middle. This dainty dish was like a pina colada on a plate. The sweet flavour of the pineapple worked wonders with the coolness of the coconut ice cream. Turning to the apple tart, which Chef Nicholas had creatively transformed into a thin and flat dish glazed with organic honey and topped with vanilla ice cream, I was sure this one would be for the sweet tooths out there, myself included. Boy, was I right? The crunch of the pastry, coupled with the sugary taste of the honey and cooked apple pieces, was the perfect way to end my meal. For more information or to make a reservation, please call The Bistro by Origins at Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain on 7748 8888. @vidabahrain

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Breaking Down a Taboo Our contributor for all wellness and sustainability matters, Victoria Kruse, brings a topic this month that is not extensively discussed, but it is becoming (finally) more common.

erimenopause, there, I said it out loud (and I didn’t combust into a hot flush, of course!). This ‘hot topic’, along with menopause, is still something many people don’t even know about yet. It’s still not been widely discussed, even amongst women, let alone among the wider population. However, there has been an emerging tide of people whispering, even talking in a normal voice about it, and it’s beginning to generate a bit of a buzz in the media as well. In fact, when I was recently on an escalator on the Tube in London, I noticed a poster on the subject. It’s about time! Perimenopause and menopause, and the many various symptoms that come with them, are something that eventually happen to all women. Maybe to a lesser extent for some, but certainly with a greater and life-altering effect for others. For me, it happened at a much younger age than many. When I first began noticing symptoms such as an inability to sleep, not wanting to have anyone touch me, and unreasonable yet uncontrollable irritation and anger, I initially thought I was going crazy. I was only 40, and when someone said to me, “maybe it’s the perimenopause?” I had two immediate reactions. One was, “how dare you, I am too young for that!” and the other was, “what on earth is perimenopause?”. Of course, I knew what menopause was, but I still had my regular monthly cycle, so I was certain it couldn’t be that. Nonetheless, I started doing some research and I found it astounding, not least because no one had ever mentioned it to me before, nor had I ever read anything about perimenopause until then. It seems that the beginning of your body’s reduction in creating progesterone can start as early as 40, as it did for me, and this stage can last up to 12 years before the cessation of regular periods. It felt unfair. How could it be that we get this after suffering through monthly cycles for 25-35 years? But after recovering from that thought, I got proactive and my research focused instead on what could be done to reduce the symptoms. My personal journey saw me working with a naturopath to find an array of vitamins to help balance my system as well as stress reduction techniques and changes in my diet. This included the magic bullet that is ground flaxseed. Studies show that ground flaxseed improves mild menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats. While this worked to a certain extent, it wasn’t until I changed my eating lifestyle to keto that I was able to truly come out the other side and feel like I’d regained full control. The good fats and zero sugar helped transform my life and make me feel normal again (whatever ‘normal’ may mean to you). There are many options now available for women, both natural and pharmaceutical, but I do believe that one of the best things we can do about perimenopause and menopause is to talk about it with other women, find a health coach or, even better, come together at an event such as the one our resort is putting together this month called ‘Pause Retreat’, which offers all these things in one package. I leave you guys with a sweet, healthy snack containing ground flaxseed.

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Flaxseed Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients: 3/4 cup natural peanut butter (no added sugar or oil) 50g coconut sugar 1 egg 2 tsp vanilla essence 2 tbsp almond milk 50g cassava flour 20g ground flaxseed Method: Put all the ingredients in one bowl and mix them until smooth. Then form into small balls and flatten until the top is soft. Bake at 170° Celsius for eight minutes. @victoria_maldiveswellness

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DINE IN STYLE

Bahrain’s dining scene offers a wide selection of cuisines in enjoyable ambiences. Enjoy sumptuous brunches, afternoon tea and lovely evenings in the company of your loved ones.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

Spices An Indian Street Food Festival is coming to Spices! Enjoy a week of family-friendly entertainment, food and drinks, the perfect event for any curry-connoisseurs out there! The offer runs from June 12 to 17, 7pm to 11pm, and prices start at BD3 net. Call 1753 1122 or 3898 7167 for more information or to make a reservation.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

La Mosaique Arriba, Arriba! Join La Mosaique and spice up your Mexican night with the La Noche Mexicana buffet full of delicious Mexican favourites from guacamole to churros to overflowing tacos and enchiladas. The offer runs every Monday, from 7pm to 11pm, and is priced at BD16 net, inclusive of soft beverages. Call 1753 1122 or 3924 2391 for more information or to make a reservation.

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

Sherlock Holmes Enjoy a Wings & Hops offer at Sherlock Holmes as you take your pick between unlimited wings and two pints of hops or a selected hops bucket and 10 pieces of wings. The offer runs daily from 12pm to 2am and is priced at BD20 net. Call 1771 3000 for more information or to make a reservation.

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

Margarita Mexicana Indulge in casual dining fun with Chef Ruben’s Mexican Tapas Platter serving nachos con queso, jalapeño, beef quesadilla, and chicken taquitos topped with crema fresca and tomatillo salsa. All that and a pitcher of a special traditional margarita. The offer runs from June 5 to 30, excluding Saturdays, from 3pm to 12am, and is priced at BD12.5. Call 1771 3000 for more information or to make a reservation. 90

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LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Baharat Restaurant Enjoy a Surf & Turf Night with your choice of prime beef cuts and fresh seafood flame-grilled to order. Garnish the grill experience with fresh salads, starters, and locally-grown grilled vegetables. End your dinner with one of the largest awarded selections of desserts. The offer runs every Thursday night from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD24 net, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD34 net inclusive of selected beverages. Call 1717 1000 or WhatsApp 3320 4175 for more information or to make a reservation.

LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Butcher and Buns Lounge Celebrate Veggie Burger Day and rejoice in the positive impact of plantbased burgers on the planet. The offer runs on June 5 and includes a 50% discount on the menu. Call 1717 1000 or WhatsApp 3320 4175 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Silk’s Restaurant Bite into your favourite dishes and get ready to welcome the weekend! Satisfy your taste buds with the finest quality and ultra-flavourful steaks, sizzling skillets, and flame-grilled meats all in one place, with live DJ entertainment. The offer runs on Thursdays from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD26+++ per person, inclusive of unlimited selected beverages. Call 1746 0017 or 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Gallery Lobby Lounge Spend a delightful afternoon at Gallery Lobby Lounge and enjoy the afternoon high tea served with sweet and savoury treats that are guaranteed to please, plus a cup of tea or coffee to warm your heart. The offer runs daily from 2pm to 6pm, excluding weekends, and is priced at BD15+++ for two. Call 1746 0017 or 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

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CHIC

Eats

ROYAL GOLF CLUB

Links Enjoy Curry Fusion night with an array of mouth-watering curry dishes that will leave a mesmerising imprint, leaving your taste buds tingling in delight! You’ll get unlimited Thai, Indian, Mediterranean, and Indonesian curries while enjoying the stunning view of the Championship golf course with live cooking stations. The offer runs on June 16, from 6pm onwards, and is priced at BD17 for adults, BD8 for children under 12, and no charge for children under six. Call 1775 1262 for more information or to make a reservation.

ROYAL GOLF CLUB

Links Join in and treat yourself and your loved ones to culinary delights overlooking panoramic views of the Championship golf course with a Steak and Grapes Night. The offer runs every Wednesday from 6pm onwards and is priced at BD17 for adults, BD8 for children aged six to 12, and no charge for children below six. Call 1775 1262 for more information or to make a reservation.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Fiamma Restaurant Hop into Fiamma and indulge in a special Giro Pizza Menu personally handcrafted by the head chef Marco Terranova. The Giro Pizza & Hops offer runs every Saturday and Sunday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD25 net per person, inclusive of a special pizza menu and unlimited hops. Call 1763 6363 or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a reservation.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Rivaaj Restaurant Discover the decadent array of dishes as you travel through an unforgettable gastronomic journey in the vibrant street markets of every junction in India. Relish some rich, authentic flavours of exotic biryanis and kebabs courtesy of Chef Sheikh Mursalim and his remarkable team.The offer runs every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD20 net per person, including soft beverages, and BD25 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages. Call 1763 6363 or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Furn Bakery & Rotunda The National Donut Day at Furn Bakery & Rotunda is celebrated with a competition where whoever eats the most donuts in three minutes gets a winner T-shirt and a floating donut ring. Eat as many as you can in as many varieties and flavours as possible. The competition happens on June 3 from 1pm to 1.30pm and is free of charge. Call 1717 1441 for more information.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Salero Join Salero for a Spanish Saturday fiesta ambience at Vermut a tu Salud! tapas brunch. Socialise, share traditional tapas, sangrias and vermuts, as well as a live DJ and flamenco performances. The offer runs every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm and is priced at BD22 net, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD29.5 net, inclusive of selected beverages. Call 1717 1300, WhatsApp 3350 2110 or visit @salerobahrain for more information or to make a reservation. 92

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VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN

Origins Restaurant In honour of the unprecedented anniversary marking 70 years of The Queen’s amazing reign, Vida Bahrain is feeling jubilant! Gather friends and family to commemorate the British Queen’s years of service and relish a majestic selection of special dishes accompanied with selected beverages. Enjoy live entertainment and endless sea views, offering you the perfect means to salute this historic milestone. The offer runs on June 3 from 1pm to 4pm, and is priced at BD28 net per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD34 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages. Call 7748 8100 for more information or to make a reservation.

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN

Origins Restaurant Raise your glasses, say ‘Saúde!’ and get in the festive mood with Vida Bahrain’s splendid Portugal Day Buffet Dinner celebrations. Gather round for a delectable feast featuring signature Portuguese dishes paired with a fine selection of Portuguese grapes and enjoy the evening in the company of friends and ‘família’ wrapped up in elaborate flavours and good vibes. The offer runs on June 10 from 7pm to 10.30pm and is priced at BD25 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages. Call 7748 8100 for more information or to make a reservation.

WYNDHAM GARDEN MANAMA

Via Brasil Enjoy all-you-can-eat meat selections including picanha, fraldinha, tenderloin with parmesan crust, rib-eye, striploin, garlic chicken wings, lamb chops, and more, grilled to perfection and complemented with fresh choices from the salad bar along with mouth-watering desserts while you admire the city skyline from the rooftop restaurant. The offer runs daily, except Mondays, from 6.30pm to 11.30pm, and is priced at BD25 net per person, inclusive of unlimited churrascaria and soft beverages. Call 6639 8787 or email jashan@wyndhamgardenmanama.com for more information or to make a reservation.

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THE ALL-NEW

INFINITI QX55 SENSORY EXPERIENCE INFINITI HAVE TAKEN INSPIRATION FROM THEIR JAPANESE HERITAGE TO CREATE A UNIQUE LUXURY CROSSOVER COUPÉ.

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DIVA

Drives

s the luxury vehicle division of the highly successful Japanese automaker, Nissan, the INFINITI brand is certainly associated with a respectable pedigree. Having test driven both the INFINITI Q60 Sports Coupé, and the INFINITI QX50 SUV in recent years, the OHLALA team had high expectations when handed the key to the all-new INFINITI QX 55 by the professional and friendly team at Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons. EXTERIOR As the only premium crossover coupé offered by a Japanese brand, the 2022 INFINITI QX55 is a unique creation, one that exudes performanceinspired styling from every angle. The all-new INFINITI QX55 SUV connects the brand to its heritage with a modern interpretation of the stunning silhouette created by the INFINITI FX. Designed to resemble a Japanese bridge, the double-arch grille was the first feature to draw our full attention. With an origami-inspired mesh pattern that widens at the edges, the influence of the Japanese culture is on full display. This beautifully designed grille is flanked by standard LED headlights; cleverly crafted to imitate the human eye. The elegant lines of the QX55 flow effortlessly from bonnet to boot, starting at the clamshell hood, and continuing above the front wheels, across the doors and over the rear fenders. Standard 20-inch alloy wheels, combined with the fastback roofline, enhance the bold and powerful

stance of this four-door hatchback. At the back end, the intricate arrangement of the distinctive taillights mimics the keys of a piano, combining 45 separate LEDs in a single casing. An uncluttered liftgate highlights the use of Japanese minimalism, whilst the INFINITI logo, located on the tailgate, houses the power liftgate release. All-in-all, we found the QX55 to exhibit an aesthetically pleasing, powerful, yet elegant exterior design; one that hints at a high-performance driving experience. INTERIOR Fortunate enough to be inspecting the top-class SENSORY trim model, it was only once we entered the QX55, that the premium nature of the vehicle was fully revealed. Welcomed by sculptured and ultracomfortable front seating, complete with soft-touch panels, we had the perfect vantage point from which to appreciate the fine-detailing of the cabin. The details of the interior have been intricately crafted, with full attention being given to every last feature. We loved the laser-cut stitching used to create unconventional shapes on the seats, doors, panels and suede-topped dashboard. High-end materials are present throughout the vehicle, including fancy, dark open-pore oak wood, used for the trimmings.

“The QX55 exhibits an aesthetically pleasing, powerful, yet elegant exterior design; one that hints at a high-performance driving experience.”

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DIVA

Drives

The low height of the rear seats ensures sufficient leg, shoulder and head room is on offer for up to three adults. The rear seating has also been designed to slide both backwards and forwards, creating an extra six inches of either leg or storage space, depending on the occupants’ needs. The luggage compartment offers a capacity of 762 litres, increased to 1,532 litres with the 60/40 rear split seating folded flat. This further adds to the practical nature of the vehicle. A final notable internal feature of the QX55, is the three-zone fully automatic A/C with auto recirculation and ioniser. The harsh humidity was no match for this first-class climate control system. INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY INFINITI have included a dual-display infotainment system in the new QX55. This includes an eight-inch upper, colour, high-definition screen for navigation and backup camera displays, along with a seven-inch lower, colour, high-definition screen for system settings, climate control, audio and phone. Both displays are conveniently located and showcase vibrant graphics and clear text. This setup includes voice recognition technology and is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It allows hands-free text messaging, along with Bluetooth hands-free music streaming and calling. We found all this tech to be pretty straightforward and responsive. Further convenience is provided through the steering-wheel-mounted controls, and the remote control situated on the centre console. This provides easy access to various functions, including voice commands and the navigation map. A 16-speaker Bose premium audio system is amongst the array of additional high-end features we uncovered.

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POWER & PERFORMANCE The QX55 boasts an award-winning, Variable Compression Turbo, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine, that produces 268hp at 5600rpm, and 280lb-ft at 4400rpm. Power streams through the Continuously Variable Transmission, and is delivered to INFINITI’s standard Intelligent AllWheel Drive system. This configuration enables the SUV to accelerate from 0-100km/h in six and a half seconds, as well as to produce a top speed of around 220km/h. With a Drive Mode Selector offering four programmable settings, including Standard, Eco, Sport and Personal, we found this SUV to be both versatile and fuel-efficient. The active noise cancellation system utilises the vehicle’s audio speakers to counterbalance any low-frequency sounds, whilst the active sound enhancement system intensifies the sporty nature of the engine. The result is a soothing yet exciting ride. INFINITI have further added to the appeal of the QX55 by including an extensive range of safety and performance assist features designed to protect and serve at all times. These include Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning, and Backup Collision Intervention, to name but a few. OUR VERDICT The all-new INFINITI QX55 is not only easy on the eyes, but delivers comfort, convenience and high performance. For more information or to book a test drive of your own, please call Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons on 1773 1773. @ykalmoayyed @infinitibah

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MISS

Ohlala

Grab your sunglasses... or reading glasses “Travel robs us of such refuge. Far from our own people, our own language, stripped of all our props.” – Albert Camus

Not only does travelling to other countries help us discover how other people live, but it also helps us refrain from taking our ways of living, habits, and behaviour for granted. It takes us out of our comfort zones and enriches our experience. We learn about the ills of prejudice and the beauties of unfamiliar territories. Like Camus says, we get stripped of our languages, our ways of thought, our routines. Achieving this, however, doesn’t always require a plane ride. We can transport ourselves anywhere we like when we read a book, enjoy a nice foreign language film, or listen to a piece of delightful music. With books, movies, plays, and songs, you can be transported instantly to the place of your desire. Indeed, reading Gabriel García Márquez will take you straight to the streets of Colombia. Delve into Rabindranath Tagore’s poetry and feel yourself fly on a magic carpet to India. Listen to Mozart’s symphony and find yourself in the quaint streets of Austria. Watch an Eric Rohmer film and feel yourself drift through the screen and suddenly alongside the fine and pompous gentlemen and women in France. Listen to Tchaikovsky and trudge through the snow on the lanes of St. Petersburg. Travel, like art, is limitless. And especially in the world we are in today, with an unexpected pandemic and with an increasing amount of materialism, we should encourage ourselves to discover more and feel a greater sense of curiosity and gratitude for our colourful and multicultural global society. So, as Camus says, let’s strip ourselves of our props and discover something new, whether it is in a foreign land, a curious film, or in that unusually interesting book you’ve been planning to start.

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THE 7 BD 2,000 PRICE REDUCTION + BD 2,000 TRADE-IN SUPPORT.

Drive luxury starting from BD 599* per month. BMW Service Inclusive for 5 years/ 100,000km. BMW Repair Inclusive for 5 years/ 200,000km. First year free comprehensive insurance. First year free registration. Window tinting. Special finance rate starting from 1.99%. *Terms & Conditions apply. Available for immediate delivery!

For more Information call us on 17 750750, or visit our showroom. We look forward to being at your service. Euro Motors 810 Sh. Jaber Al Ahmed Al Subah Highway, Al Hamriya 611, Sitra, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel: 17 750750, website: bmw-bahrain.com