Ohlala Bahrain May 2018 by Ohlala Magazine

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE BAHRAIN

Eye FOR

DETAIL

SPOTLIGHTING THE LATEST BEAUTY ESSENTIALS

BEHIND THE Sketch

WE SPEAK TO WORLD RENOWNED FASHION ARTIST

MARC-ANTOINE COULON

Culinary ART

INTERVIEW WITH THE REVERED CHEF

WOLFGANG PUCK

MODEST FASHION

MUSINGS A MODERN FLAIR OF STYLE

WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM MAY 2018 | ISSUE 160 BAHRAIN BD2 | KSA SR10

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K A I A’ S CHOICE

TRÉSOR COLLECTION

Available at:

OMEGA Boutiques: City Centre: 1710 0135 • Moda Mall: 1753 7753 Manama: BJC 1722 3930 Seef Mall: House of Time 1610 0001

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CONTENTS Ohlala

12 SUNRISE Editors Letter Style Focus Sherie

SUNSET Marc-Antoine Interview Beauty Buzz Beauty Spotlight 8

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MOONLIGHT Moda Operandi Lookbook Ohlala Spa & Wellness Winners 2018

STARLIGHT Chef Wolfgang Puck Gulf Brunch La Vinoteca Brunch

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MAY 2018 ISSUE 160

PUBLISHER & CHAIRMAN John Hughes

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Greg Hughes

REGIONAL EDITOR

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jayne Green

Jyoti Rawat

ASSISTANT EDITOR Aanchal Duggal

PHOTOGRAPHERS Shobin Joseph

CONTRIBUTORS COVER IMAGE

Helen Houghton

Peter Langner

Shabana Adam

PRODUCTION MANAGER

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Rami Khalil

Angela Beitz

Victoria

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Edward Smith Angela Beitz

WEBSITE Melek Yildirimtekin

CREDITS IMAGE Jimmy Choo

Neil Mahmood

ACCOUNTANTS Gigimon Thankachen

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

PRINTING PRESS

Ajit Kumar

Akhbar Al Khaleej

Praveen Alexander

DISTRIBUTION TEAM

DISTRIBUTION

Jayapragash Ganesan

Bahrain – Al Hilal

Rajesh Abdul Kadar

ERRATUM The February 2018 issue of Ohlala magazine featured various illustrations of John Nollet hair accessories that are all signed by the French illustrator Marc Antoine Coulon.

Qatar – Dar Al Sharq UAE – GLS,Tawseel Distribution & Logistics

ENQUIRIES Editorial: jayne@ohlala-magazine.com | Advertising: rami@nansgroup.com General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com | Telephone: (Bahrain) +973 1721 6099 | Postal Address: Ohlala Magazine, The Nans Group, P O BOX 30378, Budaiya, Kingdom of Bahrain. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing and all of its publications cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

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Visit us at: Hamala Hills, Shop 27 (Opposite British School, Bahrain), Hamala, Kingdom of Bahrain (973) 17310535 @Sherieboutik

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EDITOR’S LETTER

quick google search tells me that searches for ‘modest fashion’ are up 500% since this time last year. The global modest fashion market is already reportedly worth hundreds of billions and is set to scale up by gargantuan proportions over the next five years. There are specialist stores popping up - full of suitably modest pieces from an incredible roll call of brand names, and every kind of girl is shopping from them, whether they identify as “modest” or not. When you step outside of this specific realm, it’s plain to see that runways, cool brands and street style stars alike are also noticeably embracing big shapes, covered-up silhouettes and creative layering. Modest fashion is everywhere. But what exactly is it? As a whole, this movement has been picking up the pace for nigh on a decade, but there’s still a fogginess about what it means to be a modest dresser, what it looks like and how it’s affecting style-conscious girls right now. Outside of facts and figures, take a second to think about where fashion is headed right now: Social media has prompted diversity to become a mainstay, not a gimmick, within the industry. It’s also shone a light on the (obvious) facts that women of different shapes, faiths, colours, sizes and backgrounds can be just as stylish and can be equally valuable customers. Once you put aside the misconception that modest fashion is only tied to religious and religious-ethnic desires then you can be confident in the knowledge that covering up doesn’t have to equate to looking boring or avoiding trends as this month’s issue clearly showcases. Ramadan Kareem!

Jayne Green

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Regional Editor

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RAMADAN

READY

G E T Y O U R S T Y L E F I X D U R I N G T H E H O LY M O N T H O F R A M A D A N W I T H O U R P E R S O N A L P I C K S . H E R E A R E O P T I O N S T H AT W I L L E N S U R E Y O U S C O R E H I G H O N T H E G L A M Q U O T I E N T, N O M AT T E R W H AT T H E O C C A S I O N ! 14

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WISH List

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RR CAROLINA HE ERA

Focus

ZOE-ECKETT

STYLE BEKRAF

RAD HOURANI

TONY WARD

T H G I N D I C M I G MA JEANS COUTURE

RENATO BALESTRA VICTORIA BECKHAM

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DRIES VAN NOTEN

A YANIN YULIA

CONS PICUO U S LY WITH DARK THE R , ANT I G H T AMO I SURR OUND U N T O Q U AT E D ING Y OUR W F MYSTER Y ARDR OBE.

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Focus

NEY MCCART STELLA

AIISHA-RAMADAN

STYLE

TON

LOUIS V UIT

LOEWE

FENDI EMILIO PUCCI

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER

HOULER

PROENZA SC

ALL T G L I S H AT TEN S JEAN PAUL GAULTIER

M THO

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HASIBUAN

ANNIESA

IO US SE AS ON S EV PR D KE AR M AT TH RS TH E PR OT EC TI VE LA YE LI ES A SH EE R EM TH H AT NE BE D AN HA VE BE EN SH ED EA RI NG DE SI GN S. W TEN EM AT ST OF E AB UN DA NC

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ILSE JARA

Focus

ARWA AL BANAWI

STYLE

RICHARD QUINN ANCINI LAURA M

ENNYLUAP

ILSE JARA

CHANEL

INN

RICHARD QU

FEMIN SILHOU INE ETTES

BALENCIAGA

PAMELLA ROLAND

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FE M IN IN IT Y HA S OF ON TI NI FI DE E TH AS M E, SO HA VE TH E EV OL VE D TH RO UG H TI PR ES S IT. FA SH IO NS US ED TO EX

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Focus

STELLA MCCARTNEY

STYLE

A STRA

COLLIN

BOTTEGA VENETA

CHLOÉ

T H G I E W T H G Y I R L U LUX DIESEL

SOE JAKARTA

ISABEL MARANT

LUISA BEC CARIA

LOUIS VUITTO N

KATE SPADE

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OUR ROUN D-UP WEA R EN SURE OF BREA T S TH AT E V H TA K I N G WHE L N YO U SA ERYONE’S Y CHIC FO S H AY RMAL INTO HEAD WI L THE ROOM L TURN .

RAMADAN BY THE SE

with h an evening imbued nth of Ramadan wit st treasured, mo ’s Welcome the Holy Mo rain Bah in s hanting aroma Zallaq. delightful fare and enc adan tent, Layali Al award-winning Ram indulge lit Arabian Sea and t by the beautifully tering stars glit our er Enjoy your Iftar righ und hes n of traditional dis in a delicious selectio surprises. ceiling with magical person Iftar BD19.500++ per ces & Water Jui n ada Ram Of ve Inclusi 0pm) rs (Approximately 8:3 From Sunset For 2 Hou y) per person (food onl Ghabga BD 19.500++ 01:30am – m 00p 10: : ays Weekd – 02:00am Weekends: 10:00pm

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DESIGNER

Focus

FAMILY VALUES

Nestled in Hamala Hills lies the glistening ‘Arabesque’ jewellery brand SHERIE, a chic boutique created by unanimous mother-daughter duo. We talk all things luxury and reveal why ‘SHERIE’ is the perfect addition this Ramadan, with Soheyla Amoudeh and Shahrzad (Sherie) Amoudeh-Alireza.

ell us about yourself, including what you do and how you got there. “Sherie” is a jewellery brand established in 1997 by my mother, Soheyla. We are a mother-daughter team and it works very well as family is at the core of everything that we do. Even though we are both UK-qualified jewellers we draw our inspiration from our Persian heritage, boho-chic travels and love for ancient and contemporary art. This allows us to produce unique pieces made of gold, silver, precious and semi-precious stones. The essence of our collections is ‘East meets West’ in an eclectic blend of sophistication & youthfulness. Sherie is currently located in the Hamala Hills Mall in Bahrain, and it also has a sister shop in Muscat, Oman which is currently being renovated inside Bareeq Al Shatti, Shatti Al Qurum. Tell us about your design style. What makes your collections unique in the industry? My taste in design is evidently daring as opposed to my mother’s which is more influenced by classical designs with an air of elegance. I prefer more risqué with modern day influence whereas my mother grounds my inspiration to allow for an entirely bespoke artisanal approach. Bespoke jewellery has been at the core of our brand since its founding. The collaboration and synergy between client and designer are valued and nurtured, allowing the creation of such distinctive pieces which can be handed down to future generations. We mix clean, contemporary lines to create modern, every day jewellery that are also perfect to wear during Ramadan and Eid. What materials do you use? We use a vast array of semi-precious and precious stones, gold and goldplated silver which are then unpredictably and playfully mixed in the creation of “Sherie’s” pieces. What kind of person wears your jewellery? Our style embraces the epitome of the modern day woman. Someone who celebrates their uniqueness and originality, likes to stand out and be different. It’s incredible to see how each line appeals to different personalities. As designers, we can familiarise ourselves with new clients through their 26

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jewellery taste. It’s wonderful to combine our talents to create a brand for the woman who takes pride in both her heritage and her modernity, who is as sophisticated as she is down-to-earth, as bohemian as she is cultured and as confident as she is inquisitive. The essence of the brand is to create a maximum of two to three pieces per design so the “Sherie” woman always feels that the piece she’s wearing is reflective of her idiosyncratic personality. As designers, where do you draw your inspiration from? Ancient architecture and various platforms of art from around the world during our travels, predominantly being influenced by nature and from our ancesteriol roots. Most importantly, inspiration from women from all walks of life. What’s it like to see someone wearing one of your creations? Humbledl! We love to see people feeling confident and happy when they are wearing our pieces - it is such a gratifying feeling. Our jewellery is highly accessible to everyone as we offer free delivery in Bahrain and Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia to allow for a seamless experience. What advice would you give to someone interested in getting into the jewellery design business? First of all, follow your dreams and never give up - even if you come across hurdles on the way you can overcome them. Remember to always stay grounded and truly believe in what you can achieve as the sky is the limit. As my favourite poet Rumi once said: “Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.” Limited edition collections from Sherie are also available at BJC situated in Al Aali Mall. For more information please call: +973 17310535 @sherieboutik / sherieboutik.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Sherie woman is a celebration of all things unique and our jewellery really encapsulates our shared vision.â&#x20AC;? - Sherie

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RAMADAN DESIGNER FAIR

This Ramadan, Saks Fifth Avenue is revealing the latest collections from Bahrain and the GCC regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most sought-after designers, offering a stylish twist to modest fashion, through a stunning range of kaftans, abayas, ready-to-wear, handbags, and shoes, from 20 designers. The Ramadan Designer Fair will start on May 6th with designer pop-ups throughout the store offering plenty of exclusive, elegant and must-have pieces especially suited for this blessed time. Expect to see beautifully unique designs from AKS, Amal Al Raisi, Ballerina Couture, La Morena, Runway, Tamashee and more. Put your fashionable foot forward this Ramadan, all while cherishing this special time with your loved ones.

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DESIGNER

Focus

JAYNE GREEN talks to the everso-charming MARC-ANTOINE who is now considered as one of the world’s leading fashion artists. With his glamorous, elegant, out-of-time, sometimes quite cheeky style he displays a great sense of aesthetics and observation, capturing the instant, with an artistic overview.

ILLUSTRATE

CURATE

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ell us about yourself. What makes you tick? I am a french artist with italian origins. I’ve always known that I wanted to be an artist. Drawing has always been essential to me as well as one needs oxygen to breathe. As a child I was frustrated - I couldn’t find the images I was dreaming of, in the real world. I’ve always had a lot of images inside of me. Making these images real has been the biggest thrill in my life. I am interested in people - their lives, their stories, their weaknesses, their strength. I love to meet people and listen to them, exchange ideas with them. Can you briefly explain your creative process, mediums, etc? It’s always a challenge - while I paint, I have to feel love. My subject has to be the most important person in the world to me. I first draw too many lines on the paper with a pencil, and then I delete most of them. I like it when it looks simple. I use ink. Ink is a dangerous medium - it does not allow a second chance. I like that idea. The most important thing to me is to show how it feels to actually meet the person I’ve portrayed. When you meet people you don’t necessarily pay attention to every detail -skin, spots, wrinkles... When the person is gone you remember the style, the perfume, the personality. That’s exactly what I try to render on paper. Has the French perspective on work influenced you? I feel french, thus my work must look french, I guess. But I also feel italian - it’s an important part of my culture. I hope my work shows both influences. I love unfinished works - they are full of promises. It has to be light and human. I am not interested in perfect technique. I like messy elegance. I can be baroque or simple. People daily undergo various moods. Give us a brief history of who you have worked with up to the current date. I have worked with Ines de la Fressange, Marpessa Hennink, Jean Paul Gaultier, Dior, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Lancôme, Givenchy, John Nollet... I did the french Vogue Colouring Book. I regularly work with the French Vogue. I work each week for the Madame Figaro, each month for Town & Country, Transfuge... What are your plans for the future? Tell us about any exciting news in the pipeline It’s always complicated to reveal what’s in the pipeline. I’ve just

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I first draw too many lines on the paper with a pencil, and then I delete most of them. I like it when it looks simple.â&#x20AC;?

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DESIGNER

Focus

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DESIGNER

Focus

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS

CATS OR DOGS? BOTH FAVOURITE SCENT? FRESHLY CUT SPRING GRASS FAVOURITE DESIGNER? I LIKE IT WHEN DESIGNERS LOVE HUMAN BEINGS. IT’S NOT A MINOR ASPECT, IS IT? MOST PRIZED POSSESSION? IF LIFE’S EVER TAUGHT ME ANYTHING, THAT WOULD BE TO REMAIN VERY CAREFUL WITH THE VERY IDEA OF PRIZED POSSESSION. LOOKS OR PERSONALITY? PERSONALITY, DEFINITELY HOT OR COLD? HOT FAVOURITE HOLIDAY? SUMMER HOLIDAYS IN MY LITTLE HOUSE IN ITALY BY THE SEA

done 14 images for the Dior Museum in Granville, I am preparing a couple of very exciting surprises. I like to go where I am not expected to be. That’s where you’ll find me soon... Who has been an inspiration to you and who would you most like to collaborate with and why? I fell in love with René Gruau’s work when I was 4. I also learned a lot from the work of Thoulouse Lautrec, Saul Bas, Degas, Ingres, Klimt... I think you get influenced everyday in various ways. As for the future, there are so many people I would love to work with ! I love challenges. I love to explore new territories. But I do think it’s important to have unaccomplished fantasies. It’s important to have dreams yet to be realised. You’re now considered as one of the world’s leading fashion artists. How does one react to such a title? Although I am quite flattered when you tell me so, I would never think of myself in those terms ! It’s really hard to theorise upon my own work. I am working so hard all the time that I actually do not realise what is going on around me. I never look back. I want what’s next. It’s a peculiar balance between fear and desire. Fashion Week is a really inspiring environment, but, that timeframe is limited. Where do you find your inspiration for the rest of the year? Everywhere ! Ideas are everywhere - in a novel, in a song, in the shadow of the tree in front of your house, in magazines, in the streets... As for fashion weeks, they are very special - you have to be everywhere at the same time in Paris to attend the shows, and when it’s over you have something like three days to create around 50 images. You have to think quick. It’s kind of my olympic games. In between fashion weeks, you can take your time, you can try things. And there are so many things to be tried. So, if a designer has spent a lot of time on a creation, does it take you a lot of time to sketch it, as well? Often the most simple images are the toughest to build. As long as the viewers think it’s easy and quick, that’s fine with me. Sometimes the magic happens your hand obeys your mind, everything is fluid and easy. Sometimes you have to fight very hard until it almost drives you crazy. And you perfectly know it when it does not work like you intend it to. It can be really painful. It teaches you patience, the hard way. What does an average day look like for you? There is not a single day that I have not been frightened to death of what I am expected to accomplish. After a bit of physical exercise, most of the time I am alone at my desk, working or doing research for the next image. I usually put on some music to stimulate me. There are also lots of appointments of all kind during the day. Often I also work at night for fashion events. It requires a lot of concentration from me beforehand. Late at night I answer my messages and e-mails. Your portrait work illustrations are host to a whole accolade of A-list fashion houses and people. Do the people you sketch have to fit select criteria or can someone like ‘me’ be sketched? I’ve always done portraits, everywhere, even on vacation - that’s my way of bonding, that’s my language. So of course I draw all sorts of people all the time. I don’t think in terms of A-list. Anyone is welcome in my world. Tell us an interesting fact about yourself. At night I wear a black outfit and a black mask and I fight crime on the roofs of Paris, under the name of Batman... But shhhh! It’s a secret. @marcantoinecoulon marc-antoinecoulon.fr

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BEAUTY Talk

EDITOR’S PICKS

ANGELA BEITZ SOURCES THE BEST BEAUTY PRODUCTS TO LIFT YOUR SPIRIT AND YOUR SKIN

LONDON’S FINEST Molton Brown, London’s fragrance experts, celebrate their iconic fragrance, Orange & Bergamot with a refreshingly modernised eau de toilette and divinely decadent new body luxuries. Created as one of Britain’s first high-end fine liquid hand washes, the brand’s original collection was chosen for the guest suites of distinguished Mayfair hotel, Grosvenor House. Ever since, Orange & Bergamot has been a much-loved, bestselling fragrance for over thirty years, scenting not only hands but also the body and home, and has won several beauty accolades to become Molton Brown’s signature icon.

M Y PA R I S YSL Beauté introduces a new addition to the Mon Paris family – Mon Paris Couture Eau de Parfum. Irresistible chypre floral citrus, this sparkling new eau de parfum is a celebration of ecstatic love, and is the third member of the Mon Paris legacy, joining the Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum - but with a different twist. Like a sharp intake of breath, Mon Paris Couture opens with the familiar hit of bergamot, grapefruit, and raspberry yet has an immediate difference – a soft, watery freshness thanks to lychee and mandarin notes. A little sweet, yet with a zingy bitterness to arouse curiosity, it is at once engaging and inviting. 38

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THE PERFECT BALANCE Aesop formulated its new skin care range, In Two Minds, to address the complex needs of combination skin and restore the skin to a state of calm equilibrium. The In Two Minds range features a cleanser, toner and moisturiser, each containing a potent blend of scientifically proven ingredients and botanicals to balance and soothe combination skin. The range has been formulated to address the multifaceted nature of combination skin rather than a single aspect, and restore the skin’s delicate balance. Each of the products work together to gently cleanse combination skin, normalise sebum production.

2 5

THE NEW CLASSIC In 2018, Chanel’s famous, Les Beiges reinvents nude style that plays by its own rules. The complexion becomes sheer, revealing the texture of the skin; natural colours blush atop cheekbones and lips to bring out radiance and heighten a natural healthy glow, while eyes are barely swept with a tinted breeze. And because there is not one nude but many, Les Beiges now adapt to all skin tones with a wide palette of shades and an overall approach (complexion, eyes, lips) that enhances the natural beauty of all women.

H Y D R AT I N G P O W E R The solution to any skin issue is often hydration. But how do you choose from the endless moisturisers on the market? Get back to the source by harnessing the power of water to keep your skin fresh and hydrated with L’OCCITANE’s brand-new Aqua Réotier collection. The surprising new textures will excite all your senses. Formulated with the calcium-rich water of Provence’s Réotier spring, the hydrating facial routine not only moisturises skin but is efficient for at least 24 hours.

LET THERE BE LIGHT After Teint Idole Ultra Wear Stick and Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage in 2017, Lancôme pushes the boundaries of customisation with its limited edition of super-shiny liquid highlighters in 4 shades, Custom Glow Drops. These oh-soversatile highlighters with their high concentrations of pearlised pigments are designed – like the rest of the Teint Idole Ultra Wear line – for every woman to express her personality to the fullest. For a relatively natural look and to give your complexion the prettiest sunkissed gleam, mix a bead of Custom Glow Drop with your foundation

Layali Ramadan Inspired by the opulence and charm of Arabia, join us for a rooftop ghabga buffet, from 8pm to 2am, for just BD15++ per person +973 3351 4455

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BEAUTY Focus

Know Your Skin ALLÉL IS THE FIRST EVER DNA MATCHED SKINCARE AND NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENT SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE. DEVELOPED IN SWEDEN AND MADE IN SWITZERLAND, ALLÉL FUSES THE SCIENCE OF THE DNA LAB WITH THE EXPERTISE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENTISTS, DERMATOLOGISTS AND SURGEONS. THE INNOVATIVE SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE DELIVERS DNA MATCHED SKINCARE AND NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR THOSE WISHING TO UNLOCK THE ANTI-AGEING SECRETS HIDDEN WITHIN THEIR GENETIC CODE. 40

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BEAUTY Spotlight

QUEEN B F

or all of those times in life when stress is more intense and tiredness more pronounced, Guerlain has formulated an instant solution. Invigorating and revitalising, the Queen’s Treatment makes women an incredible promise: it vows to reduce signs of tiredness and completely revive the radiance of their face in just seven days. Because women meet a host of challenges and accomplish an incredible number of tasks every day, they deserve to be treated like Queens. After four years’ work, for the first time Guerlain Research has given this product the highest concentration of royal jelly in the Abeille Royale range. This “highly concentrated” version is the key ingredient in the Abeille Royale Queen’s Treatment. Fit for a Queen.

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BEAUTY Spotlight

CAMOUFLAGE I CHIC f Teint Idole Ultra Wear from Lancome is chosen by millions of women around the globe, it is because of the freedom it gives them to live every moment intensely, feeling totally confident and without unease. Teint Idole Ultra Wear now boasts two new treats for make-up junkies: Teint Idole Ultra Wear Stick, ideal for changing your look in a flash and Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage, a concealer with mega coverage and formidable precision. And that’s not all; Teint Idole Ultra Wear foundation now offers 40 shades inspired by existing skin tones – there’s one to suit every complexion. That way, every shade of skin will find the perfect match to bring out its full beauty. Find your shade and find your power this summer.

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Ramadan Kareem Experience the taste of tradition this Ramadan at Awali Ballroom. Try local, Middle Eastern & International cuisine at our iftar buffet served daily from sunset to 8:30 PM throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan. Iftar buffet adult BHD 16.000++ weekdays BHD 18.000++ weekends

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BEAUTY Column

t’s very important during Ramadan to look after yourself. Even if you aren’t fasting, the temperatures start to rise due to summer, meaning longer and hotter days. Some people see the month of Ramadan as an opportunity to turn over a new leaf, which is great and anyone can do this. Been slacking off at the gym? Eating badly? Not looking after your skin? The Holy Month is the perfect time break a habit or start or new one as it’s a good time to reflect on things you want for yourself. It’s best to not start a whole new program at this time as it can be unrealistic but it’s good to make small changes that you might have tried to start at the beginning of year and forgotten about. It is a common saying that it takes 40 days for a new habit to be created or a bad one to be destroyed and the month of Ramadan, which already requires change, may be a good start. If you aren’t looking at making huge changes during Ramadan, it’s super important to be mindful about gaining weight and most will want to make fitness a priority. These goals can only be accomplished through planning during this blessed time. Make an eating plan at the beginning of the month and also make a plan to go to the gym 3-4 times a week and stick to it. Incorporating something like yoga is also a good idea, as it’s low impact and will relax your body and mind. By the end of the month you’ll feel fabulous and these habits will now be part of your regular routine.

RENEW, REFRESH, REST

The Holy Month is the perfect time for reflection, breaking bad habits and creating new ones, Angela Beitz explains 46

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SOME OF THE BEST WAYS TO LOOK AF TER YOURSELF DURING RAMADAN: • Drink fluids between fasting times • Once you break your fast, start with something like dates and then try to eat healthily and include wholegrains, fruits and vegetables • Don’t go overboard on desserts, sugary drinks and fried food • Avoid long amounts of time in the sun • Exercise moderately • Rest when you can If you’re abstaining from eating and drinking during Ramadan it’s important to remain focused, stay in shape and eat the right foods when you break your fast. If you’re going to be fasting and also sticking to your normal fitness routine during Ramadan then this is great but can be more difficult. Ramadan can put a lot of strain on those who are only eating when the sun goes down. Exercise and good nutrition are difficult to maintain during the Holy Month, a time when dehydration, decreased muscle mass and weight gain are common amongst people who fast. Whatever your plans are this month it’s important to listen to your body and take care of yourself. Mind, body and soul. Wishing you a blessed Ramadan.

Visit Saar Mall this year and enjoy the unique Ramadan atmosphere

‫ واﺳﺘﻤـﺘﻊ‬،‫ﻗﻢ ﺑﺰﻳـﺎرة ﻣﺠﻤـﻊ ﺳـﺎر ﻫـﺬا اﻟﻌـﺎم‬ ‫ﺑﺎﻻﺟﻮاء اﻟﺮﻣﻀﺎﻧﻴﺔ اﻟﻤﻤﻴﺰة‬

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‫أوﻗﺎت اﻟﻌﻤﻞ ﻓﻲ ﺷﻬﺮ رﻣﻀﺎن‬

Shops From 10 am to midnight

‫اﻟﻤﺤﻼت اﻟﺘﺠﺎرﻳﺔ‬ ‫ ﺻﺒﺎﺣ اﻟﻰ ﻣﻨﺘﺼﻒ اﻟﻠﻴﻞ‬10 ‫ﻣـﻦ‬ ‫اﻟﻤﻄﺎﻋﻢ‬ ‫ﺻﺒﺎﺣ‬1 ‫ ﻣﺴﺎء اﻟﻰ‬6:30 ‫ﻣﻦ اﻟﺴﺎﻋﺔ‬ ‫ ﺻﺒﺎﺣ ﻣـﻦ اﻟﺨﻤﻴﺲ اﻟـﻰ اﻟﺴﺒﺖ‬2 ‫ﺣﺘﻰ‬ ‫اﻻﻟﻌﺎب‬ ‫ ﺻﺒﺎﺣﺎ‬1 ‫ ﺻﺒﺎﺣ اﻟﻰ‬10 ‫ﻣـﻦ‬ ‫ ﺻﺒﺎﺣ ﻣـﻦ اﻟﺨﻤﻴﺲ اﻟـﻰ اﻟﺴﺒﺖ‬2 ‫ﺣﺘﻰ‬

Restaurants From 18:30 pm to 1:00 am Until 2:00 am between Thursday and Saturday The Games From 10 am to 1 am Until 2:00 am between Thursday and Saturday

+973 38 877 770

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AWARD WINNING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY

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Launch of

IN CELEBRATION OF THE GLAMOUR (AND RELEVANCE) OF THE KAFTAN (WE WEAR OURS TO PARTIES AS WELL AS POOLSIDE), MODA OPERANDI ESTABLISHED AN ANNUAL TRADITION TO SPOTLIGHT IT ANEW. THIS YEAR, MODA OPERANDI BRINGS IN TEN OF THEIR FAVOURITE EVENINGWEAR DESIGNERS, INCLUDING SANDRA MANSOUR, REBECCA DE RAVENEL, ESME VIE, CUCCULELLI SHAHEEN, MARCHESA, CHRISTIAN SIRIANO, ELIZABETH KENNEDY, TO REIMAGINE THE SILHOUETTE FOR THE MODERN MODA WOMAN. AS THIS EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION PROVES, THERE IS A KAFTAN FOR EVERY WOMAN. www.ohlala-magazine.com

MODA OPERANDI X ESME VIE

LUXURY

MODA OPERANDI X CHRISTIAN SIRIANO

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MODA OPERANDI X ELIZABETH KENNEDY

MODA OPERANDI X CUCCULELLI SHAHEEN

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MODA OPERANDI X MARCHESA

MODA OPERANDI X SANDRA MANSOUR

MODA OPERANDI X LUISA BECCARIA

MODA OPERANDI X LEAL DACCARETT

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MODA OPERANDI X CUCCULELLI SHAHEEN

MODA OPERANDI X LEAL DACCARETT

MODA OPERANDI X LUISA BECCARIA

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2018 AND THE WINNERS ARE... FOLLOWING A CHIC AND ELEGANT AWARD CEREMONY HELD AT SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL, WE PRESENT YOU WITH THE BEST AND FAVOURITE WINNERS OF EACH CATEGORY. WE LOOK FORWARD TO CELEBRATING THE LEADERS OF THE WELLNESS INDUSTRY NEXT YEAR IN WHAT WE HOPE WILL BE A BIGGER AND BETTER EVENT - TILL THEN, WE’RE OFF TO INDULGE IN MORE LAVISH TREATMENTS!

BEST NEW IN TOWN UFC GYM

BEST DAY SPA

FAVOURITE NEW IN TOWN

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

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FAVOURITE DAY SPA

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INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

GATSBY BEAUTY LOUNGE

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY THE GULF SPA, THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA •

BEST RESORT SPA

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

FAVOURITE RESORT SPA AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

•

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DESSANGE PARIS

BEST CITY SPA

FAVOURITE CITY SPA DOWNTOWN ROTANA •

BEST SPA SIGNATURE TREATMENT

TRESORS DES MERS RELAXATION MASSAGE, SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

FAVOURITE SPA SIGNATURE TREATMENT HERBAL POULTICE MASSAGE, THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN •

BEST FEMALE SPA DESSANGE PARIS

FAVOURITE FEMALE SPA THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA •

BEST MALE SPA

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

FAVOURITE MALE SPA

THE DOMAIN HOTEL & SPA

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OHLALA Awards BEST HAMMAM TREATMENT HAMMAM GARDEN, AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

FAVOURITE HAMMAM TREATMENT TURKISH BATH CEREMONY, MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN •

BEST COUPLE’S TREATMENT

BEST HEALTH CLUB

BEST BEAUTY SALON JOZ SALON AND SPA

SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL

FAVOURITE BEAUTY SALON

FAVOURITE HEALTH CLUB

•

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CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

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ULTIMATE INDULGENCE FOR TWO, THE GULF SPA, THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

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FAVOURITE FITNESS CENTRE

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I LOVE SHARING, SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA •

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THE SPA, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

FAVOURITE SPA BRAND

HEAVENLY SPA, THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN •

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THE GULF SPA, THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

FAVOURITE SPA DESIGN

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BEST SPA PRODUCTS ELEMIS, ART ROTANA, AMWAJ ISLANDS

FAVOURITE SPA PRODUCTS

ANNE SÉMONIN PARIS, SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA 56

•

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FITNESS FIRST •

BEST MEDICAL SPA

LA SANTÉ, THE WOMEN WELLNESS CENTER

FAVOURITE MEDICAL SPA HOSPITALIA BY YARA •

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SPECIAL THANKS AWARD

OFFICIAL SPONSORS OF OHLALA SPA & WELLNESS AWARDS BAHRAIN 2018

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All the Winners, The Glitz & The Glamour Thank you to all whom attended and participated in the success of Ohlala Spa & Wellness Awards Bahrain 2018. A particular shout-out to Sheraton Bahrain Hotel who hosted the perfect backdrop to our prestigious award ceremony, alongside our other amazing sponsors Maserati and Anorris Event Management of who we are grateful for their continuous support. 58

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HEALTH Files

TAKE ON ME

We signed up to The Four Week Challenge at Dessange after our wardrobe was no longer proving forgiving and, quite frankly, we had ran out of excuses to not exercise whilst waiting for that overnight miracle. Here we reveal the trials and tribulations of our first two weeks and why we won’t give up. I sat in the carpark, absolutely terrified. My palms were sweaty, my heart was racing, my brain was going crazy. After ten minutes, I finally mustered up some courage, yelled at myself, got out of the car, and walked through the double doors. It’s important to add that there’s valet parking alongside a whole host of private parking spaces - probably just as well or I may have turned back. I was getting ready to try something I had always wanted to do but had been too scared. I attended my initial health assessment and an hour later, I left a sweaty mess…a sweaty mess with a giant smile on my face. After too many deliveries from Talabat and falling hook, line and sinker to the infamous ‘Bahrain gain’ I decided to take the plunge in the hope of shedding my muffin top. It is said that the hardest part is just getting started, and that is definitely the case for me. When I decided that I wanted to be healthier and lose weight, I knew that exercise was a big part of that. I just didn’t know where to start. The measurements came out and I was literally measured from head-totoe, it wasn’t intrusive in the slightest and it concreted my will of wanting to lose those extra inches that I’d allowed myself to bypass for so long. We discussed my diet and my need for water. It was very educational and simplistic - they don’t expect you to overhaul your regime overnight - but rather refreshingly realistic. I left the room thinking, no, knowing that I could LPG MACHINE do this. I was escorted over to the power plate for a trial session. Now, I’m not going to lie to you as this isn’t a walk in the park, but, it was a lot of fun! This latest fitness device is being used by athletes and celebrities alike and for those interested in losing weight and building muscle, the plate provides vibration therapy which can offer the same benefits as an hour in the gym undergoing traditional training as the vibrations accelerate your workout. Perfect for us ladies on the go 60

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when our time is precious. I’ve found that the personal trainers here are very supportive and adapt to your capabilities with the right amount of ‘pushing’ to enhance your workout. I have collected a variety of lumps and bumps over the years and none more than the dreaded orange-peel effect that has currently taken residence across my lower body. This is where LPG Endermologie comes to the rescue! A noninvasive treatment where one session typically lasts no longer than 35 minutes. It’s generally not painful; like a deep tissue massage and can even be soothing. During treatment, a mechanical roller is applied to the body in a meticulous fashion consisting of a variety of structured strokes. Simultaneously, a suction device tugs on the cellulite-affected area. This device increases blood and oxygen to cellulite-afflicted areas of the skin, after which fluids from the cells are removed during urination, therefore drinking up to eight glasses of water a day while undergoing treatments is advised to prevent dehydration. After three sessions I’d noticed myself gazing at my derriere in a more favourable light! I found myself enjoying a selection of group fitness classes too, but, my favourite so far has to be ‘Fit Dance’ with personal trainer Manahel. The choreography allowed for a full body workout to be delivered effortlessly with the music selection played. This particular class brought me back to my former days of dancing and I began to feel nostalgic. The community vibe and engaging atmosphere amongst the ladies attending of all ages, shapes and sizes displays is truly a testament to Dessange itself. One common denominator is displayed throughout… support. Perhaps you have only just decided to get healthy or you have been on this journey for a while, but just focusing on food. What you eat is really important, but so is staying active! Exercise can be so many different things. I allowed myself to fall into the ‘trap’ of thinking that because you are unfit (and trust me I am), you are unable to do any exercise, or you see people running marathons or doing 100 push-ups in a row and think just because you can’t do that then you can’t exercise at all. Dessange have allowed me to see and more importantly supported me into actually doing something! Any form of exercise is better than no exercise at all… now, I didn’t think I’d ever be writing that! For more information please contact Dessange on 1771 3999 THE FOUR WEEK CHALLENGE WHAT IS IT?

TAKE ON THE CHALLENGE •Lose 4% of your body fat in 4 weeks

WHAT IT INCLUDES •6 LPG Sessions •5 Power Plate Sessions with a Personal Trainer •10 Group Fitness Classes

LPG PROCESS

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OHLALA Spotlight The Queen of Brows celebrity brow expert Suman Jalaf flew into Bahrain for a weekend visit at Gatsby beauty lounge and our brows are the talk of the Kingdom.

BLADE RUNNER

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atsby is home to an array of beauty services ranging from their recently launched Korean Facials to their renowned ‘gatsbyinspired’ hairstyles so when they secured Suman Jalaf to visit from London I nearly got whiplash with how quickly I called to make an appointment. Sick of non-existent eyebrows that were overplucked in my teens I was prepared to go to extremes to get the on-trend Cara Delevingne look. In the 1990s and Noughties, the global trend in eyebrows leaned towards thin, ‘pointy’ arches. Big brows had gone out of style, so the tendency around the world was to over-pluck. The result? Generations of women lamenting their skinny brows and coveting the arches of Cara Delevingne. Fortunately for us, this is one of the many A-list clients that Suman Jalaf (@ sumanbrows) has in her portfolio. I’ve always had a difficult relationship with my eyebrows. As a child I had dark hair and something of a monobrow. When I was a teenager, a friend who could no longer stand the sight of two bushy slug-like things above my eyes held me down and plucked them to almost nonexistence. As was the trend, I continued to over-pluck, to the point where large portions of my brows simply stopped growing back. Fast forward a few years, and I started working in the magazine industry where I was introduced to the concept of filling in my now sparse eyebrows. In my role I’ve been exposed to countless wondrous products claiming to correct my baldy brows, and many of them did - albeit temporarily. The older I get, the more aware I am that having a clean, flattering brow shape is really important to the entire face. The trouble with drawing them on is that they can look different from day to day, and a wonky brow can destroy even the most fabulous makeup look. And there’s also the fact that when I went makeup free, people got a fright at the sight of me with no brows. I was mortified even going to the gym without drawing them on. It was time for some professional intervention. I’d heard about semi-permanent brow embroidery from

“As I rather anxiously walked into the beautifully chandeliered beauty salon my fears were quickly dashed as bubbly Suman talked me through the whole process reassuring me of the results.” friends in the industry, but when I realised that it was essentially eyebrow tattoos, I initially went off the idea. I was terrified of it all going wrong and the idea of it being painful frightened me - plucking is bad enough! Still, the more I heard about the practice, the more interested I was. As I rather anxiously walked into the beautifully chandeliered beauty salon my fears were quickly dashed as bubbly Suman talked me through the whole process reassuring me of the results . Furthermore during the treatment we continued to giggle about anything-and-everything making for a truly wonderful experience. She promised to transform my brow shape and density by measuring my facial parameters and drawing a new arch, as well as filling in all my little bald patches. The fact that the entire procedure is done with little needles lined up in a row is daunting, but when I saw her clients’ results, I was 100% in! The process involves a hand held tool with a microblade in it, dipped in ink. When this breaks the skin the ink settles in to the stroke, so it’s like a semi-permanent tattoo that fades over time. Each brow gets about a dozen

strokes with topical numbing cream, and you can hear the scratch of every incision, but, once the cream goes on, it’s far more tolerable. I’m not exaggerating when I say that this treatment has changed my life. I feel like I’ve had plastic surgery, such is the difference to my face. I don’t need to fill my eyebrows in at all, and each little stroke looks like real hair, unlike the powdery, harsh lines I used to draw on myself. There’s no more smudging or sweating off my brows, but the best part is that for the first time since my teens I look absolutely normal without make-up. I can swim, workout or even just go make-up free without looking like I’ve accidentally shaved off my eyebrows. This treatment has given me the confidence to be seen make-up free. Thankyou Gatsby for hosting the Queen of Brows and raising a few eyebrows in the beauty industry of Bahrain. For bookings at Gatsby Beauty Lounge please call 34302020 @gatsbybh www.ohlala-magazine.com

CHIC Eats

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY is Manama’s fine dining epicentre with multiple concepts being curated. JAYNE GREEN speaks to the wonderfully humble Celebrity Chef, WOLFGANG PUCK, about the long-standing relationship that both these iconic figures wholeheartedly share.

ou’re a Michelin-starred chef and internationally renowned restaurateur. Do you feel any pressure with such acclaimed titles? The pressure I feel every day is not about the Michelin Guide but that of the customer who I want to feel special so that they feel that they want to come back. That’s the biggest pressure and it’s what I teach everyone who is working with me. We aim to make people feel comfortable in our restaurant and feel like family. Why is it important to keep not only your ingredients fresh, but, your dining concepts? I really believe there has to be an evolution. We can’t simply do the same thing over and over again. I do like to maintain some tradition but mix it with innovation. I like to say that tradition mixed with innovation makes a good cake! Why has the Middle East been an area of great interest for the WP Fine Dining Group? When we started in London around 8 years ago a lot of people were visiting from the Middle East and saying to us “You must open a restaurant in the Middle East - in Dubai”, and we did and after Dubai we opened further restaurants in Bahrain and Doha. Bahrain has become my favourite as the people are so welcoming and make you feel like you are one of the family. 64

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CHIC Eats

“I also work with chefs who remain with us, some for over ten years and they know my expectations for our style of hospitality and the need for the freshest and best ingredients.”

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What influences do you take from the Middle East to showcase at other culinary destinations in the world? In each one of our restaurants we want to create something special and use local ingredients from local people. We like to adapt the local produce such as fish and cheese to fit with the expectations of our brand. People visiting our restaurant in London won’t have the same experience there as they will in Bahrain or Dubai and this is a purposeful decision to ensure they have a variety of experiences, but with some familiarity. The critically acclaimed CUT by Wolfgang Puck is widely recognised as one of the top steak restaurants in the world. How do you maintain consistency throughout said restaurants and how do you ensure this level of excellency is executed with the Executive Chefs at Four Seasons. It’s a very important principle but very simple. We buy the best ingredients. We never cheat with the ingredients and ensure the quality is consistent. Once we have these ingredients what we want to do is simply enhance them not alter them too much. I also work with chefs who remain with us, some for over ten years and they know my expectations for our style of hospitality and the need for the freshest and best ingredients. I want my chefs and managers to ‘own’ their restaurants and to make their reputations through the quality of their service. I tell them ‘I’m famous enough, this is your opportunity to prove how capable you are’ . My chef ’s are ambassadors for the brand and the customers know them and recognise the fact that they are responsible for the high quality of their experience. The menu in re/ Asian Cuisine | Wolfgang Puck features your signature, modern take on traditional Asian cuisine and provides a “re”-evolution of what you have been passionate about for the majority of your career. How were you first drawn to Asian cuisine? I opened my first Asian restaurant Chinois in Santa Monica in 1983 and this was one of the first real Asian fusion restaurants. Instead of using heavy cream in sauces I may use coconut milk which means that they are not as rich, but, just as delicious! People came to the restaurant and thought it was the most amazing thing. I remember I made a Peking Duck but replaced Hoisin sauce with a homemade fresh plum sauce. Everybody was using Hoisin sauce and we didn’t want to do that we wanted to be a little bit different. It’s the same principle as a musician. If you want to be successful you won’t get that way by always using the material of others. You have to create your own.

What is your personal opinion about the growing maturity and sophistication of the dining landscape in Bahrain. It’s really very interesting as things started so slowly but they are now getting so busy and taking off. We have adapted our brand a little for the palate of the Bahraini community and as we get to know the scene better we are able to perfect our dishes to suit their tastes. We learn from one another in that they expand their food horizons but we also learn from their expectations and we are able to refine and adapt our dishes. The overriding thing that we have learnt is that we can not go overboard with prices and the hospitality element is very important. People expect to be presented with something to eat as they are seated and they expect more from us than the restaurant scene in London, for example. As guests arrive the bread and dips are waiting for them and they want to begin the meal immediately. We have learnt that this makes customers happy. Tell us about future plans with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. At present we have no imminent plans but because of the synergy I feel we have with the Four Seasons if they came to me with a new project I would be happy to look at a new concept or at opening in a new venue. I’m hoping to do a lot of work on Chinois as it is very well known in London and throughout Europe and so renaming the restaurants RE: Chinois will help to make them synonymous with that brand and reputation. The logo will be very important as it represents yin and yang and therefore represents the coming together of Chinois and the restaurants in the Middle East and also my style of cooking coming together with the Asian style of cooking. What we want is for guests to be really impressed when they visit Bahrain. The hotel itself is one of the most beautiful Four Seasons and the quality of the finish surpasses that of the headquarters in Toronto. Therefore it is fitting that the restaurants are of a comparable standard. For more information please call 1711 5000 fourseasons.com/bahrain @fsbahrain

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CHIC Eats

GLOBAL Gastronomy The Grand Buffet which The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa hosts each Friday is the epitome of everything that the resort represents. The hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resplendent presence dominates not only the skyline but

also the market for first class venues whether employing the state of the art business and convention facilities or seeking a family retreat with first class amenities and the most luxurious of lodgings. It is no surprise that a resort such as this is leading the way when it comes to tempting treats and gourmet dishes which comprise the heart of their Friday Brunch. Al Waha is one of 10 restaurants within the hotel complex and the fine array of cuisines which is offered across the restaurants is reflected in the brunch stations. The restaurant offers a fitting setting with contemporary, oversized hanging light shades, glass screens and vivid murals. As we were shown to our table we were immediately delighted by the map which greeted us and educated us about the routes we may want to take in order to negotiate the burgeoning stations. Before embarking upon my diatribe about the magnificent fare I feel it is important to stress the family element which the restaurant promotes. A dedicated professional animation team deliver a range of activities including face painting and balloon modelling in order to entertain younger visitors and allow parents to relax and savour their brunch experience. The thoughtfully designed menu ensures that younger diners victuals are plentiful and varied. If you are able to draw yourselves away from the Latin American rhythms of the in house band then your culinary junket can commence. The opportunity to pre-order meat and seafood which is cooked to your exacting standards and delivered to your table is straightforward and as with everything else, has a plethora of options and choices. Much of the produce is chilled on vast trays of ice and it is definitely worth exploring what is on offer before ordering. I could barely contain my delight as I happened upon the whole fresh lobsters and plump shrimp. Equally the skilled team at the butchery section will expertly prepare any cut you desire before handing it to the adept chefs who then create bespoke dishes for you including any vegetable accompaniments. This was the first time that I had experienced a dedicated Pork Station which is no doubt a massive draw for expats who crave the familiarity of a true taste of home. Delicately crafted sushi and sashimi were arranged with perfect symmetry upon bamboo boards with a stunning ice sculpture which mirrored the ocean freshness of the fish with the Itamae wraps in vegetables, rice or nori. They made the perfect

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The presentation draws you towards the vibrant platters which can form as small or as large a plate as you desire in order for you to sample everything Al Waha has to offer.â&#x20AC;?

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CHIC Eats appetiser, combined with spicy, fragrant Thai salads and Chinese Bouchee steamed in bamboo baskets. The Asian corner was a real treat for the senses. Middle Eastern grills and kebabs are an addiction for many but the stations within the Gulf Hotel encourage diners to indulge their wanderlust and venture into the realms of Mexican Street food or the very finest ‘prelibatezze’ (delicacies) from continental Europe. The presentation draws you towards the vibrant platters which can form as small or as large a plate as you desire in order for you to sample everything Al Waha has to offer. Many people are hesitant to sample new cuisines when dining out as they may order something unfamiliar which turns out to be a real disappointment. The Gulf Brunch affords you the opportunity to ‘test drive’ the very best of global cuisines which may inform future dining experiences. Just as your waistband is beginning to pinch a little you should turn your attention to the sweet treats on offer, in abundance. As if Arabic sweets drenched in rose syrup aren’t satisfying enough the chef ’s raise the bar with their pastries, mousses and beautifully decorated cakes. White spoons tempt you with the perfect fruity mouthful which can only be followed by the fragile tarts heaped with berries and crème anglaise. It was fortunate that I had been fore-warned about the decadent beauty, the piece de resistance, the chocolate room.

Having been assured that I did not need a golden ticket to enter I absorbed the bountiful spread with awe. The chocolatier had combined the darkest and crispest ingredients with luxuriant milk and ludicrously creamy white cacoa. Truffles were dusted to make them shine alluringly and layered squares were too tempting to resist. It would not be surprising if people chose this Friday Brunch simply for access to the chocolate room. I was also comforted to see that the continental tradition of ending a splendid banquet with the finest and most pungent of cheeses had not been dismissed. A whole station housed an array of fromage , crackers and fruity appendages which provide the perfect savoury end to such a prolific assortment of dishes and delights. The hotel has drawn together all of the elements necessary to create a Brunch universally attractive to all walks of life and culinary tastes. It is a triumph of both quality and quantity. Combine this with access to facilities such as the expansive lagoon which they modestly call a swimming pool and you have the recipe for a perfect day with your family, closest friends or that special someone. Visit Al Waha within The Gulf Hotel , Spa and Convention Centre between 12.30 and 16.00 each Friday where you will be treated to the grandest and most regal of Bahraini brunch experiences. For more information please call: +973 17713000 72

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CHIC Eats

ยกVAMONOS! Dining in Bahrain is certainly heating up and no other place does it like La Vinoteca Barcelona. Not only were we treated to an unparalleled Saturday Brunch full of authentic Spanish delicacies, but we also left with all of our senses delighted by the truly unique experience.

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a Vinoteca strives to deliver authentic Spanish staples and favourites, with a contemporary twist. The word ‘vinoteca’ literally translates to wine shop or place that houses a collection of wines, and in La Vinoteca Barcelona’s case, their extensive collection is bolstered by their partnership with Bodegas Torres in Spain. The restaurant’s décor hints at tradition and heritage, while also employing cutting edge contemporary design to create a refined and intimate dining environment. The glow of the iconic Mediterranean azure blue runs throughout the restaurant , along with other signature tones associated with the region, such as earthy shades of orange that are reminiscent of the vibrant saffron that flavours and colours the restaurant’s signature paellas. Deconstructed wine barrels form the shell of booths, adding a touch of warmth and intimacy to the dining experience, whether as a couple or a small group. dining whether as a couple or a small group. The option of dining counter style on high stools is reminiscent of the bustling tapas bars in Madrid and Sevilla. The restaurant believes that ‘sharing a meal with family or friends is one of the most nourishing forms of social interaction’. The Saturday Brunch experience embodies this philosophy perfectly, with nourishment coming in a variety of forms.Traditional breakfast dishes are combined with tapas , salads and more substantial one -pan paellas and roasts. The dashed eggs, presented in a skillet and topped with either chorizo or mushrooms, combined with wild mushroom omelette or the more traditional Spanish tortilla were the perfect introduction to our Iberian expedition. All manner of topped, toasted breads tempt you to explore further and the Pa amb tomàquet (tomato bread) was Spanish simplicity at its best! Spain, like many Mediterranean countries, has suffered hardship and famine, which means that many of its traditional dishes are made with simple ingredients such as eggs, potato and beans. Executive Chef, Joan Gomez, has employed these ingredients to great effect. Deliciously decadent deep fried camembert with pumpkin jam is an ideal sharing plate. The theatrics of the homemade smoked salmon was a real treat and a must-see when attending the brunch. The bell jar was lifted to release the ‘smoke’ and reveal the tender, fresh smoked salmon that was presented on a wooden platter with freshly toasted bread and zesty adornments. Gambas (prawns), chicken croquettes, crispy calamari and juicy lamb meatballs transported us to the bustling food scene on Las Ramblas or one of the many impressively grand plazas and at one point I was sure I could faintly smell orange blossom. The common thread which runs through the restaurant is the idea of sharing and interacting, and the large skillets of paella were perfect for this. Seafood, meat 76

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CHIC Eats and vegetable versions were all equally mouth-watering, although we were a little envious when we saw a large pan of black rice infused with squid ink being delivered to a neighbouring table. Alas, this is one of the joys of brunch, as we requested this as an addition to our feast rather than ponder over the thought of “oh well, we’ll get it next time”. The use of more modern ingredients such as quinoa and pumpkin lift traditional salads and sauces. This was particularly evident in the Quinoa and Goats Cheese Salad which was vibrant and fresh and made us feel good. The traditional ‘Sunday Roast’ platter combined chicken, beef sausage and brisket along with fresh greens, crispy vegetables and baked potatoes. The romesco and aioli sauces are again indicative of the ability to combine the simplest of ingredients to great effect.They were indulgent and perfectly spicy and savoury. The liquid offerings from the house of Torres complimented each dish perfectly. Additionally, Mediterranean inspired versions of familiar concoctions were also whipped up for us by their resident mixologists, and once again allowed diners to sample a broad range of the drinks available at La Vinoteca. Perhaps the most striking aspect of the brunch is that all dishes are served by friendly and professional hosts at your table, which created the illusion that we were actually just having a very decadent meal with friends. It was such a treat and a welcome change from the familiar buffet style approach. The resident duo performed throughout and the mesmerising rhythms of the classical guitar added to that sense of escapism that the brunch creates. And so for dessert, the slate platter brimming with tasty forkfuls representing the very best and most delicate of pastries, mousses and Spanish standards, such as Crème Catalan and seasonal fruit, was magnificent. Each of the dishes which formed the assiette could also be ordered as slightly larger ‘rations’ , although the opportunity to sample a little of each will probably prove too much to resist on your first visit! The use of chocolate in particular harks back to the discovery of so many ingredients from New World exploration, which the Iberian Peninsula spearheaded. As the brunch came to an end, we left, with reluctance, and returned to the bustling heart of the city after our brief Mediterranean foray. Presentation, service, execution and atmósfera exude sophistication and yet respect tradition. We will definitely be returning, and we hope you will experience this deliciously culinary Spanish journey yourself very soon!

“The theatrics of the homemade smoked salmon was a real treat and a must when attending the brunch. “

For reservations or bookings please call +973 1700 7808 www.ohlala-magazine.com

OHLALA Spotlight

Saar Mall is a

medium-sized shopping centre located in central Saar. The 7,500 sq/m retail haven is a three level development consisting of basement, ground and first floor with 70 commercial units catering to various needs of the general public. Since its opening in 2013, the establishment has contributed towards further urbanisation of the area. The arcade has a stylish and contemporary look and offers something for everyone including several renowned brands alongside various restaurants and cafés. Residents of the area and the neighboring vicinities have the added convenience of simple grocery shopping, thanks to the Carrefour, which is situated within the precincts of the mall. It also caters to important public utilities like banks, offices of mobile service providers, a pharmacy, money exchange house and an insurance company, as well as lifestyle requirements such as beauty salons, car rental companies, professional car cleaners, laundries and travel agents. It is home to several international food and beverage outlets; from popular fast-food brands, to coffee shops and local cuisine venues. Additionally, the mall has an indoor play area for little ones, the Big Game Zone for children across all ages, as well as mini-cinema to keep kids entertained. The management of the shopping centre works hand-in-hand with all its stores to effectively reach out to customers. It not only undertakes advertising for its tenants through social media, but also holds significant large-scale events to involve the community in festivals like Eid and campaigns like breast cancer awareness. Saar Mall has made a mark in Bahrain and carved a niche for itself as an up-market retail destination that fulfills all the daily needs of islanders, along with providing courteous services and a safe environment to both customers and tenants alike.

RAMADAN KAREEM

Celebrate the Holy Month with Saar Mall’s whole host of activities where its premises welcome children with its spacious, pushchair-friendly mall and lifts, creating a stress-free shopping experience you and the whole family will enjoy. RAMADAN OPENING HOURS SHOPS Morning 10:00 AM TO 4:00 PM Afternoon 7:30 PM TO 12:00AM RESTAURANTS Opening Time 6:30 PM Closing Time 1:00 AM (weekdays) and 2:00AM (weekends) MAY 28, 2018 / SATURDAY – THE NIGHT OF GERGAOUN Expect a lot of family fun as a local folk band perform traditional songs and music alongside the historical and traditional Fraisa performance that is central to Gergaoun celebrations in the Kingdom. This fun event will be for a duration of two hours of fun starting at 8pm COMING SOON! TWO DAY EID CELEBRATION Dream no more and just leave your plans to Saar Mall! A two day Eid celebration will be held at Saar Mall prepare yourself for a lot of fun and games alongside an array of gifts and surprises provided to their valuable customers. The great Eid giveaways are coming very soon so keep your eyes peeled for the latest updates by checking out their instagram @SaarMallBahrain

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CHIC Eats

RAMADAN

DINING With Ramadan fast approaching, we’ve searched far and wide to gather a list of bountiful feasts offered throughout the Holy Month in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Celebrate this auspicious time with La Mosaique’s sumptuous Ramadan offerings! Guests are invited to break their fasts and celebrate the spirit of giving as they share traditional Ramadan generosity. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a relaxing Iftar buffet and enjoy a vast selection of delectable traditional Arabic specialties. Revel in the spirit of giving, delicious flavours and relaxed ambience and stand a chance to win daily and weekly awards, including dinner vouchers and electronic goods. To enhance the Ramadan spirit, Crowne Plaza will also be donating 500 fils to charity for every diner! Iftar is served for BD14.520 per person. This Eid, treat yourself to a serene escape with Crowne Plaza’s special Eid Early Bird Offer! Book a minimum of three nights and avail their Eid exclusive rate of BD60++ per room/day, inclusive of breakfast for two, complimentary late check out until 4 pm as well as a 15% discount on any of their massages. Booking starts from 1st May till 15th June for stays between 1st July and 12th July. CALL 17531122 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 80

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Al Areen Palace & Spa

Experience true Arabic hospitality in an astonishing setup with the ‘Qasr Al Sultan’ Ramadan tent! Showcasing Arabian and Middle Eastern traditions to best serve the special occasion, the new tents seamlessly blend contemporary design with traditional Turkish elements. Dig into flavourful Arabic, Turkish and international cuisines as the premium band provides an authentic backdrop of Turkish flair featuring festivities and a musical fusion of both heritages. Valid before May 7th, guests can look forward to discounted deals which consist of the lavish Iftar buffet for BD14++ on weekdays and BD16++ on weekends, while the Ghabga buffet is available for BD13.5 on weekdays and BD15++ on weekends. Regular package deal serves Iftar buffet for 16++ on weekdays and BD18++ on weekends. Ghabga is served for BD15++ on weekdays and BD17++ on weekends. Make it an Eid to remember with a delicious family-friendly Eid brunch! Enjoy Arabic and international dishes as well as live cooking stations, entertainment, access to the pool and a raffle draw for all members of the family at ‘Qasr Al Sultan’. Eid brunch is served for BD17++ per person. CALL 17845000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

The Westin City Centre Bahrain

Celebrate the true serenity of Ramadan with FURN Bistro and Bakery and their delectable Ramadan offerings. Gather your loved ones and savour the authentic flavours of traditional Khaleeji cuisine with a western twist in a stylish and comfortable environment. Starting from the first day of Ramadan, Iftar buffet is served from sunset to 8:30 pm for BD18 per person. The a la carte Ghabga menu is served from 9 pm to 1 am from the first day of Ramadan. CALL 17171441 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

A true Arabian Ramadan experience awaits you at Awali Ballroom! Offering the ultimate Ramadan experience, the magnificent venue boasts a traditional Arabic décor in a neutral colour palette, palacial arches as well as a twin tent roof with stunning chandeliers that create a truly distinct and sophisticated ambience. Sample an array of traditional Arabic dishes,

international menu options, traditional Arabic juices, a huge variety of cold mezzah and starters, exciting desserts and so much more. Iftar is served from sunset to 8:30 pm for BD16++ (Sunday to Wednesday) and BD18++ (Thursday to Saturday). Children aged 4 to 12 dine for BD8.500++ while children aged 4 and under dine for free. Alternatively, gather your friends and family and savour a deliciously curated Ghabga menu at Al Safir Restaurant. Revel in the joys of gathering as you indulge in traditional Ramadan cuisine as well as an array of sumptuous international dishes. Relax and unwind as you embark on an exclusive cultural and culinary experience. Ghabga is served daily from 9pm to 2am for BD12.900++ per person. CALL 17533533 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

With the blessed time of Ramadan upon us, indulge in an unforgettable Ramadan experience with the award-winning Layali Al Zallaq tent. Break your fast right by the beautifully lit Arabian Sea and treat your taste buds to an array of mouthwatering traditional Ramadan dishes including oriental salads, a dedicated Moroccan section, Manakeesh and Shawarma stations, mixed grill as well as a number of traditional Bahraini dishes. Indulge your sweet tooth with delicacies like Turkish ice cream, Umm Ali and so much more! Iftar is served from sunset to 8:30 pm for BD19.500++ per person inclusive of Ramadan juices and beverages. Before you move on to the Ghabga buffet, sit back and relax as you enjoy shisha by the beach and listen to the best of traditional Arabic music. Your little ones are also taken care of with plenty of entertainment and activities including creating Ramadan cards, pinwheels, puppet making as well as face painting. Your girls can even pamper themselves further with nail polishing and Arabic dance classes! Ghabga is served from 10 pm to 1:30 am on weekdays and from 10 pm to 2 am on weekends for BD19.500++ (food only). GO: CALL 17636363 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Mӧvenpick Hotel Bahrain

Experience the full spectrum of Arabian hospitality as you gather and share the joys of the holy month at the Al Murjan Ballroom. Sample a sumptuous array of authentic Iftar delicacies, including hot and cold mezze, fresh salads, lamb dishes, Arabic mixed grills, shawarma as well as soup and carving stations. For dessert, don’t forget to try their luscious Umm Ali, Knefe and sticky date pudding. A designated beverage station will be serving a range of classic Ramadan favourites, such as tamarind, qamar al deen, Vimto and jallab. In the spirit of this holy month of giving, BD1 will be donated from the total bill to Muharraq Charity Fund. Two lucky winners also stand a chance to win a roundtrip ticket to any destination! Group reservation of 30 people and more receive 25% off. Iftar is served throughout Ramadan from sunset to 9 pm for BD19 per person. Top it off with the ultimate Ramadan relaxation at the Rimal Spa! Relax and indulge as you celebrate the festivities through treatments meant to celebrate you. Revive and delight your body with your choice of scrub, followed by a skin makeover with their Hollywood Radiance Facial and round it off with an Asian Blend/ Aromatherapy Massage. Enjoy resultdriven treatments at BD60 net for 120 minutes. CALL 17460000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. www.ohlala-magazine.com

CHIC Eats Elite Resort and Spa

Embrace the spirit of Ramadan and discover an exquisite Iftar, Ghabga and Suhoor buffet at Noor tent. Guests can look forward to an authentic Ramadan atmosphere and breathtaking views along with mouth watering cuisines infused with the traditions of Bahrain. During Ramadan, the ambience at Noor tent will be further accentuated with unique entertainment and art forms, including special activities planned for the ladies as well as your little ones. Be it a corporate affair or a family gathering, Noor tent is bound to make it a Ramadan you’ll never forget! CALL 17313333 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Elite Seef Residence and Hotel

Breaking your fast just got a whole lot tastier with Oasis and IL Giardino’s extensive Iftar, Ghabga and Sohour offerings! Enjoy an exquisite array of your Ramadan favourites as well as international and oriental cuisine whilst relaxing with friends and family in a vibrant setting. Iftar is served from Maghreb for BD7.990++ per person and BD3++ for kids. Ghabga is served for BD14++ per person and BD16++ for 2 adults and 2 kids. Suhoor is served for BD5++ per person. GO: CALL 17583388 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Ramadan at Al Bahrain Ballroom is a fun family-filled affair where a premium selection of delectable delights awaits you. Gather with your friends and family in the main dining area or relax with some sheesha overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Revel in the modern Arabesque theme and gorge on a wide selection of traditional Bahraini fare as well as Lebanese, Moroccan, Indian, Turkish and global cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Hyung Gyu Kim and Executive Pastry Chef Imad Boukli. Iftar is served from sunset till 8 pm for BD26++ per person and BD13++ for kids aged 5 to 12. Ghabga is served from 9pm until 2 am for BD28++ per person and BD14++ for kids aged 5 to 12. Shisha is served for BD10++. Special group rates also available! Make it an Eid to remember with a decadent Eid Brunch at Bahrain Bay Kitchen! Take your loved ones on a grand Eid brunch celebration as you enjoy three days of celebrations including indulgent Arabic cuisines, international delicacies and so much more. Join in the festivities and indulge in an exquisite three day brunch buffet, live cooking stations and a vibrant family atmosphere. Eid Brunch is served CALL 17115500 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain

Revel in the grand setting of Khaimat Al Khaleej and indulge in a truly mystical and one-of-a-kind Ramadan experience. Guests can treat themselves to a wide spread buffet featuring decadent selections of live grills, freshly made savoury pastries, dates tower offering a selection of seven different variety of dates, live Teppanyaki grill, chocolate fountain, crepe station, homemade Ramdan ice cream flavours and lots more! Enjoy in a modern yet traditional theme layout as your little ones keep themselves entertained with a special play area featuring activities and games. With the holy month of Ramadan upon us, indulge in the most satisfying meal experience for Iftar with Takht Jamsheed Ramadan. Celebrate this time of tranquility and giving and connect with your 82

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friends and family as you immerse yourself in an authentic Persian Ramadan experience. Take in the stunning traditional décor as you sample an array of delectable Persian delicacies including Chef ’s marinated kebab platter, fresh bread as well as other traditional Ramadan favourites. CALL 17713000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain

As the sun descends each evening onto the Arabian Gulf and the traditions of Ramadan begin, guests are welcomed to join for two variant seating’s, including the breaking of the fast Iftar, from sunset to 8 p.m., for BHD 25++, and the Ghabgha dinner from 9pm. to 2 am, for BHD 27++. Guests can also book one of the Pergola seating areas for private dining up to eight guests (limited to 7 Pergola seating at a time). During the evening feasts, guests will enjoy nightly entertainment while indulging in the splendors of a culinary journey through the resort’s 11 award-winning restaurants as succulent buffets are set up with aromatic menus encompassing flavors of traditional Arabian cuisine, along with modern fare from the Eastern Mediterranean, Asia and Mexico regions. Live cooking stations and fresh Egyptian breads and crêpes will also abound, while traditional Ramadan desserts and gourmet sweet delicacies satisfy the most discerning of palates. A traditional ghawa Arabic coffee station will also be set at the entrance with dressed attendant welcoming guests to the festivities of the night. Shisha-service will be available nightly from sunset to 2 a.m. CALL 1758 6499 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION

‫‪Ohlala Arabia‬‬ ‫‪Bringing style across The Middle East‬‬

‫ﻣﻮﺳﻢ‬ ‫ﺟﺪﻳﺪ‪،‬‬ ‫ﻗﻮاﻋﺪ‬ ‫ﺟﺪﻳﺪة‬ ‫اﻟﻤﻔﻀﻠﺔ ﻟﺪﻳﻨﺎ‬ ‫إ ﻧّﻬﺎ اﻟﻔﺘﺮة‬ ‫ّ‬ ‫اﻟﺴﻨﺔ ﺣﻴﺚ ﻧﻘﻀﻲ‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ّ‬ ‫ﺳﺎﻋﺎت وﺳﺎﻋﺎت ﻣﻦ اﻟﻤﺘﻌﺔ‬ ‫وﺳﻂ ﺟﺪﻳﺪ اﻟﻤﻮﺿﺔ‬ ‫اﻟﻤﺼﻤﻤﻴﻦ‪.‬‬ ‫وإﺑﺪاﻋﺎت‬ ‫ّ‬

‫وردة‬ ‫اﻟﺼـﺤﺮاء‬ ‫ّ‬

‫ﻓﻲ أﻋـﻤﺎق‬ ‫دﻳﻠﺒﻮزو‬

‫اﻟﺮوﻣﻨﻄﻴﻘﻴﺔ اﻟﺤﺪﻳﺜﺔ أﺻﺒﺤﺖ ﻧﻘﻄﺔ‬ ‫اﻟﺘّﺮﻛﻴﺰ اﻟﺠﺪﻳﺪة ﻓﻲ أزﻳﺎء ﻓﺎﻳﺰة ﺑﻮﻗﺼﺔ‬ ‫ﻫﺬا اﻟﻤﻮﺳﻢ ﻣﻊ ﻇﻬﻮر ﻣﻤ ّﻴﺰ ﻟﻠﻴﺎﻗﺔ‬ ‫اﻟﻤﻜﺴﺮة‪.‬‬ ‫ّ‬

‫ﺳﻮف ﺗﻤ ّﻴﺰون أﻛﻤﺎم‬ ‫»دﻳﻠﺒﻮزو« ﻣﻦ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺑﻌﺪ‬ ‫ﺗﺤﺪ ﺛﻨﺎ‬ ‫أﻣﻴﺎل‪ ،‬أﻟﻴﺲ ﻛﺬﻟﻚ؟‬ ‫ّ‬ ‫ﻣﻊ اﻟﻤﺪﻳﺮ ا�ﺑﺪاﻋﻲ ﺟﻮزﻳﻒ‬ ‫ﻓﻮﻧﺖ وأﺧﺒﺮﻧﺎ ﻛﻴﻒ ﺗﺆ ّﺛﺮ‬ ‫أﺳﻔﺎره ﻋﻠﻰ ارﺑﺘﻜﺎراﺗﻪ‪،‬‬ ‫أﺳﻠﻮﺑﻪ اﻟ ّﺮ ّﻳﺎﺿﻲ‬

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‫‪WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER - SEPTEMBER 2017 | ISSUE 18‬‬

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DIVA Drives

THE 2018

P O R S C H E CAY M A N 7 1 8 G T S THE NEW CAYMAN PROVES THAT PORSCHE IS STILL AMONGST THE VERY BEST.

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t is always a pleasure for us at Ohlala to be offered the opportunity to test drive the latest Porsche has to offer. A truly iconic brand, Porscheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are famous for their exciting drivability and sense of style. Being handed the keys for the new 2018 Porsche Cayman 718 GTS, we knew we were in for a treat and were most keen to flex our driving muscles. The Porsche Cayman originally went on the market late in 2005 and the brand has made countless improvements over the last 12 to 13 years. But are these improvements enough to stand up to the likes of the Jaguar F-Type or the Audi TTS? Upon initial inspection, the love and attention put into the design and construction of the vehicle was immediately obvious and we could not wait to see all she had to offer. The front end of the 718 features the new Sport Design apron that emphasises the vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sporty character. As is customary for GTS models, the front light clusters with the Bi-Xenon headlights are black-tinted and

pleasing to the eye. The side profile is characterised by black GTS logos at the base of the doors and 20-inch wheels in a black satin finish. At the rear of the vehicle, the dark-tinted taillights, black logos, black rear apron and centrally positioned black tailpipes from the standard sports exhaust system, further intensify the sporty appearance and makes one want to reach for their camera. For a sports car of this size, it has a decent cargo capacity with storage spaces both under the hood and hatch. This makes the vehicle more plausible for everyday use. Sliding into the cabin area, class and comfort is what greeted us. The full leather sports seats are stock shaped and come complete with GTS logos on the headrests. They offer great support and comfortability at all speeds. The three spoke design steering wheel is wrapped in high quality leather and gives one a sense of full control. The centre console and armrests share the high quality leather finish and the overall look and feel of the cabin is what one would expect of a Porsche. www.ohlala-magazine.com

DIVA Drives

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“Porsche have once again produced a high quality, visually beautiful and exciting vehicle that can compete with all rivals in the segment.”

The display consists of an analogue speedometer as well as another display on the right. Here one can change the display to navigation, music, smartphone integration and more. Enthusiasts with a passion for dynamic driving are assisted by the Porsche Track Precision App (PTPA), which enables one to automatically record, display and analyse driving data on a smartphone. A standard 7” touchscreen display is present on the centre console. We found the operating system to be extremely intuitive and responsive with clear graphics. When it comes to sports cars however, the truth is always told on the tarmac. As we put foot to pedal, the raspy sounding engine was music to our ears. The power output has been increased to 365 hp (269 kW) thanks to a newly developed air intake-duct and an optimised turbocharger for the 2.5-litre, four-cylinder boxer engine and believe us when we say, you can feel it! This GTS model has a maximum torque of 430 Nm, and when equipped with the PDK and Sport Chrono Package, can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds, achieving a top speed of 290 km/h! We were most relieved to feel how much control we had driving this car. The grip on the corners gave us a sense of driving freedom as the vehicle hugged the road, never showing any signs of strain. The ride was smooth and powerful, just as one would expect from a Porsche. This new mid-engine Cayman is available with a manual six-speed transmission or optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK). A range of features also come as standard, including the Sport Chrono Package, Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical rear differential lock and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which lowers the ride height by ten millimetres, adding to the cornering control. Our conclusion: Porsche have once again produced a high quality, visually beautiful and exciting vehicle that can compete with all rivals in the segment. In fact, it may be the most fun of all to drive. www.ohlala-magazine.com

F1 Pre-Race Party with Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

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FORMULA1 2018 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, Bahrain International Circuit

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Al Hawaj & credimax “I love my Mom”, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Qamariya fashion show and exhibition, Florence Bahrain

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Nine West #Throwback 40th Anniversary, City Centre Bahrain

Official Official MediaMedia Tour,Tour, Jumeriah Jumeriah RoyalRoyal SaraySaray

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Private Gala Opening of Reef Resort, Reef Island

AKA VIP Launch, Meisei Restaurant

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Get your daily dose of Ohlala online now THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

SMART TA L K S DESERT MANNEQUIN CHATS SPIRITUALITY AND STYLE

HOW TO FIND YOUR

INNER PEACE

DECADENT DAYS & N I G H T S

WAYS TO A WINNING RAMADAN WARDROBE WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM JUNE 2017 | ISSUE 72 QATAR | QR20

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Celebrity Chef Series with Michelin Star Chef Adam Byatt, Capital Club

Grand Opening of Orsay, City Centre Bahrain

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Thai Street Food Festival at Soie Restaurant, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

ChaĂŽne des RĂ´tisseurs Dinner, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

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Mussels Dinner Event, Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain

Fitness for Life Grand Launch, Al Areen Palace & Spa

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Go Gosaibi Travel CEO Golf Tournament 2018 Award Night, Wyndham Grand Manama

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MISS Ohlala

OUT OF THIS WORLD Miss Ohlala’s ramblings of why she feels like she is on another planet in lieu of today’s ever changing persona.

There’s no point ‘beating around the bush’ as it is important to get directly to the point, or, so I find myself regularly paraphrasing when I’m in a rather awkward predicament when other people mercilessly freeload their ‘issues’ upon me. I thought I’d signed up with that with my partner, haven’t I been punished enough!? Don’t get me wrong, I’ve got good ears (albeit small) to take on such an ordeal, but, what I find rather questionable is how belittling it is to call ourselves the “supreme human race”, the advanced species of planet earth who choose to use their conscious abilities, that allow them to question and reason, to go to merciless battle with one another, while chuckling at the ‘immature’ ‘barbaric’ behaviour displayed by other animals that we fight so hard to distinguish ourselves from as we mimic them free handedly. It’s sad that the majority of people won’t bother reading this. It’s too long and not discussing turning up or relationship drama or some pointless event that I’ve endured today. I’m talking about something that a lot of us don’t care to question and I’m curious about why that is. Why is it so hard for our intelligent race to actually care about the sustainability of our earth and what we’re actually doing here and where exactly ‘here’ is? Why are we so concerned about who’s dating who, or who decides to swap their gender and why? I don’t care 98

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about how many doughnuts Beyonce can lick and I certainly do not care about committing any “sins”, aka random acts that someone somewhere decided were wrong and that everyone else should think they’re wrong too. I don’t understand why so many of us choose to be ignorant, just to feel safe, and to feel importance. Why we feel the need to project a particular image to the outside world throughout the realms of social media is beyond me. Why do we have this overriding need to impress other people, people we don’t know, and for what? To feel better? I know from personal experience that scrolling through said platforms are a recipe for anxiety. Keep your standardised test results and your straight “A” transcripts to yourselves and as you look them over and feel proud of yourself, remember that those A’s hail from a man-made alphabet, those numbers that make up your scores, belong to a theoretically man-made conceptual system which we have developed to consciously evaluate the world around us. Most importantly, remember that your magnificent transcript and wonderful achievements still don’t answer the who, what, where, when and why of your entire existence. But I’m sure we can all manage to make one up out of laziness. This is why I can’t befriend the average teenager. *eyeroll* So, I suppose what I’m saying is...let’s make a conscious effort to be more present in our actual lives.

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