Ohlala Bahrain October 2022

Editor’s

October is the pink month, a period dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness. A good time to press pause and give extra attention to our health and general well-being. Take the time to go for a check-up or return to your doctor for the exam results you keep postponing. But this month is also about doing things for ourselves. We explore beauty treatments and skincare routines for the colder months of the year, embrace a pink spa day and embark on a relaxing local escape. Don't forget that unwinding and decompressing from everyday stress also means taking care of your mental health.

Our fashion pages bring stylish autumn trends and ideas on how to wear a favourite piece for chilly days: wide-legged trousers. We love jewellery and the new collections that we showcase this month are opulent pieces from Graff and delicate Chopard hearts.

We channel the autumn vibes and bring tips to transform your home's interior into a cosier nest. We also explored three destinations around the globe that are great for hiking and becoming one with nature

To celebrate the well-being of our stomachs, we dined at the latest talk in town, The Quarry, located at Al Dana Amphiteatre. This place is not just another new restaurant on the island; it is also a sophisticated lounge, an entertaining space for shows with unique bars and drinks. A concept worth checking!

We end this issue by driving away in the new BMW 4 Series Grand Coupé 430i. Read all about this beloved car brand's latest model.

Happy Reading!

Fernanda Langhammer Editor-in-Chief

editor@ohlala-magazine.com

JOHANNA ORTIZ

OHLALA

Fashion Picks

GYM CALLS

To celebrate well-being in fashion, we embrace the athleisure trend that is taking over the streets this autumn and winter. Get sporty!

High-heeled trainers might not be ideal for that stroll in the park, but they can add an edgy element to your biker-inspired look. These are from DSQUARED2, but brands such as Nike and Balenciaga also have their take on the trend.

Tory Burch shows us that you can look chic while adding activewear to your outfits. Either pick a casual pair of cool sweatpants or go for a sporty top, make sure you accessorise your look with high heels and a stylish handbag.

A sweatshirt dress with a hoodie can be your next signature look. Max Mara paired its oversized jumper with a mini skirt, but you can opt for leggings or skinny jeans.

Not ready to give up on loungewear styles? Switch to wide-legged trousers with a sporty flair, like this Celine pair, to embrace comfy and trendy looks for your

A lightweight jacket is probably all you need during winter in the Middle East. This Noon by Noor number could be your best companion during evening walks or casual outdoor get-togethers.

Trends

Let the typical colour palette of this season paint your wardrobe. Go for warm tones of brown, green, red, orange and yellow to embrace the falling leaves’ hues. You can mix and match them for a harvest-style or choose one of the shades to create an elegant outfit.

PURIFICACION

GARCIA

MOSCHINO

JOHANNA ORTIZ

ISABEL MARANT ETOILE

MAX MARA

MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION

MALO

MAX&CO.

PAUL SMITH

WEEKEND MAX MARA

Trends

THE THIRD ELEMENT

You will never go wrong when choosing a black-and-white outfit. This colour combo is timeless and sophisticated. But if you want to make your look more interesting, add a third colour, such as red or green. However, if you are seeking a refreshing twist, opt for a pale beige as the third shade –the result is even more stylish and refined.

MAX

CELINE

MAX MARA

MALO

ISABEL

MARANT ETOILE

POMELLATO

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI

LEEM

Tranquil Time

Heavenly Spa by Westin allows you to replenish your mind and body with a personal sensory experience. Recover and Rejuvenate with our 60 minutes Hammam treatment and 60 minutes Aspire Massage o er for only BHD 95 net instead of BHD 115 valid until 31st October 2022.

Call +973 1717 1122 or WhatsApp +973 3888 5915 to book this o er.

INTO THE BLUES

A YouGov survey done a few years ago in 10 countries across four continents showed that blue is the world’s favourite colour. This might be true as we all (we can bet on that) have something blue in our wardrobes. While dark shades beautifully replace the beloved black, baby blue tones add brightness to your outfits.

SANTONI

NOON BY NOOR

MAX MARA

WANDLER AT FARFETCH

MOSCHINO

CAROLINA

STYLE Trends

COLOUR YOUR WORLD

We know that suiting is not for everyone. However, this tailoring staple has become more popular over the years.

If you like a touch of boldness and don’t like the office vibe suits usually give, go for vivid options – from candy pink to bright yellow, there is a colour out there just waiting for you!

ETRO

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

PAUL SMITH

PAUL SMITH

JIL SANDER

MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION

LA DOUBLE

J

LA DOUBLE J

RALPH LAUREN

RALPH LAUREN

STYLE

Focus

COMFY TROUSERS WHAT TO WEAR WITH:

Athleisure inspiration swears by loose pants such as cargo, parachute and palazzo. Wide-legged trousers are comfortable and if styled in the right way, they can taken you from the sofa to a fancy dinner party. These red Max Mara parachute pants are a bold way to embrace the trend.

1. Mixing different fabrics is a fashion-forward way of creating interesting looks. Isabel Marant mixed nylon and velvet to compose this runway outfit.

2. Following the idea of mixing different materials, this Isabel Marant Etoile sleeveless knitted jumper will bring a pretty detail to your autumn wardrobe. You can add a shirt or a second skin underneath for a more modest approach or to fight colder temperatures.

3. Opt for high-heeled shoes if you want a more elegant way of wearing these pants. These Sportmax black pumps even allow you to wear your comfy trousers in the office (if you don’t have a strict dress code in your workplace).

4. Pair your bottoms with a simple tank top for a casual stroll. Noon by Noor has a selection of them in different solid shades.

5. A beautifully printed scarf like this La Double J has the power to make any look more elegant. When putting your outfit together, pay attention to the colour palette you are going for and explore further in your accessories.

6. Supermodels love comfort when they are away from catwalks. Wide-legged trousers are always a good pick for comfortable yet stylish looks. Gigi Hadid can frequently be spotted wearing casual outfits while running her errands.

OHLALA

Our monthly round-up refreshes your fashionista radar with a book release, a bag design celebration, a striking campaign and ways to support the pink month.

Pink October

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay has prepared an array of activities and offers in honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The series of special events will help to raise funds for the Bahrain Cancer Society. On October 13, they will celebrate Think Pink Day with a unique programme created for ladies, including Zumba, Sensory Wellness, Power Yoga classes and a lecture on risk factors and prevention of breast cancer – all the revenue will be donated. If you can’t make it on this day, you can participate in the Full Moon Yoga on October 9, Rooftop Sky Yoga on the 25th and Outdoor Spin class on the 29th. However, the commitment to raising awareness of this cause goes beyond wellness. Bay View, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, CUT Lounge, re/Asian and Blue Moon Lounge are also stepping up for this fundraising campaign, with exciting offers all month long. For every Cracklin’ Rosie signature drink sold at any of the venue, BD1 will be donated to Bahrain Cancer Society. At Bahrain Bay, all the revenue from the sales of the signature mocktail, Labor of Love, will also be donated to Bahrain Cancer Society.

ICYMI

Objects of Desire

The Swiss haute horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet and luxury publishing house Assouline partnered to celebrate the Royal Oak’s 50th anniversary with the book Royal Oak: From Iconoclast to Icon. Assouline is known for producing incredible publications of extremely high quality. The two entities share a common endeavour, to create lasting cultural artefacts to be passed on across generations. Written by Bill Prince, an awardwinning cultural journalist, the book presents the Royal Oak’s history. It brings new archival materials uncovered by Audemars Piguet’s heritage department and exclusive testimonials of long-standing friends of the brand. The narrative is illustrated with imagery from six decades of art, architecture, fashion, music and cultural history, registering the evolution of this trailblazing timepiece.

Less is More

The streetwear brand Zara has collaborated with American designer Narciso Rodriguez to create the capsule Narciso Rodriguez X Zara collection. The special edition is composed of 25 items of clothing and accessories. They are all drawn from the brand’s archive – proof that good design endures. “This has been an amazing experience for me. It was great to go through past collections and revisit things that we loved. The Zara design team interpreted them with fresh eyes, but always making sure that the essence of the original pieces was maintained,” said Narciso. The timeline of the designer’s remarkable career spans over 30 years and encompasses the fashion movement of minimalism, of which he is a key architect. “There’s a beautiful slip dress in the collection that is bias-cut with an interesting seaming,” Narciso notes and continues: “It’s what people think of when they think of my brand. It’s very liquid. It flows over the body.” The collection is available online and in selected stores.

Style Above All

Celebrating a Classic

Fendi recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of its Baguette bag with a capsule fashion show. The bags’ legacy began in 1997 when the current Artistic Director of Accessories and Menswear, Silvia Venturini Fendi, designed the Baguette to revive the brand’s image. The Italian company headed to New York, where the bag gained ‘it bag’ recognition, to present a celebratory collection with designs from Marc Jacobs, Tiffany & Co., Japanese brand Porter and the Baguette’s number one spokesperson: Sarah Jessica Parker (SJP). The SJP X Fendi capsule kicked off the show with pieces in a softer colour palette. Porter’s contribution to the collection features the Baguette in glossy nylon. The Tiffany & Co. X Fendi capsule is dubbed ‘Fendi at Tiffany’s’ and brings the brand’s signature blue hue paired against dark neutrals and the use of diamonds. Marc Jacobs put a classical twist on the street style that is signature to the essence of New York, capturing the ‘casual meets formal’ concept. Which re-interpreted Baguette is your favourite?

32 www.ohlala-magazine.com OHLALA ICYMI The online destination for luxurious fashion and beauty items, FARFETCH, presents its #YourChoiceYourFARFETCH AW 2022/2023 global brand campaign. The retailer celebrates personal style using the diverse range available only at FARFETCH. The campaign stars actress Leighton Meester, supermodel Paloma Elsesser, musician Bakar and Mexican-American singer-songwriter, Omar Apollo. They are all known for their strong and unique fashion identities and are pop culture catalysts in their own right. “Our new campaign is all about individual storytelling of getting dressed for any occasion. I love the specific pieces chosen by the stars of the campaign – from Leighton’s top-to-toe Paco Rabanne sequins to Paloma’s impressive Coperni coat to Bakar’s retro Marni tracksuit and Omar’s deconstructed and oversized Balenciaga blazer, all celebrating their own style,” said Holli Rogers, FARFETCH’s Chief Brand Officer.

DIVINE BEAUTY AND FIERCE FEMININITY

Channel your inner goddess with these luxurious pieces from Graff’s new campaign, GRAFFABULOUS, harnessing the beauty of their magnificent gemstones.

The GRAFFABULOUS campaign’s storytelling is driven by the divine beauty of natural diamonds and gems. The striking models are portrayed as omnipotent queens of unmatched beauty, fierce in their femininity and channelling the very essence of Earth – the creator of these revered stones.

GRAFFABULOUS showcases more than 80 pieces of high jewellery. All the precious stones for which the house is renowned appear in the campaign, revealing the full spectrum of Graff’s singularity. An unprecedented 3,600 carats of diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires are featured, making this among the greatest gatherings of gems ever seen in a single high jewellery campaign.

Necklaces feature prominently in the collection, as do earrings. Contemporary motifs first seen in the Tribal Collection have been further explored and expanded, challenging Graff’s artisans to custom cut diamonds into innovative shapes to realise these creative arrangements of stones. Illustrating the excellence of the brand’s craftsmanship and highlighting the textural complexity of the designs, an array of high jewellery rings sculpts the light into brave, new forms with contrasting diamond cuts. Equally sublime is the skilful use of colours, as in the phenomenal collection of Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond jewels.

For over half a century, Graff has operated at the very pinnacle of the high jewellery industry. Perhaps most notably, the house has dominated the list of historical and important rough diamonds discovered, cut and polished in this century. The 302.37-carat Graff Lesedi La Rona, the largest, highest colour and highest clarity diamond ever certified by GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and the world’s largest square, emerald-cut diamond, is one of them.

Graff’s unique high jewels are designed and manufactured at their London atelier, where their master craftsmen employ a highly-personalised approach, which extends to their bridal line. The jewellery house also has a luxury watch division, which combines imaginative design and exceptional Swiss engineering to create captivating collections and bespoke timepieces.

Graff collections are available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC).

@graff

Love Yourself

Chopard’s My Happy Hearts collection brings delicate jewels representing a constellation of dainty hearts. A new interpretation of the Happy Hearts line.

Chopard believes that treating yourself to a piece of jewellery is a testimony of the respect and love you have for yourself and a declaration of independence. The My Happy Hearts collection brings smaller pieces to please the brand’s younger clientele. The hearts continue with the same purpose of serving as points of light, punctuating a look with their versatile magnetism. The heart, an essential symbol of the maison, has been reinvented by capturing its peerless formal quintessence. It has been redesigned in a miniature format while retaining the formal perfection of its curves. The items give density to the simplest outfit, slender and discreet jewellery that you can barely feel, which becomes like skin lingerie. This sophisticated accessory can accompany you from a Pilates session to fancy parties. When worn alone, the pieces invoke the concept of ‘less is more’ for a minimalistic approach. Their small size also allows you to stack them up when looking for more volume. You can also mix and match the different models and colours for an array of combinations to suit your mood and different outfits.

The line features necklaces, chain bracelets, rings and earrings based on the principle of a single heart. Whether in ethical 18-carat rose or white gold, the heart of each piece of jewellery comes in carnelian, mother-of-pearl or diamond-set versions. The collection’s rings and earrings are also available with a dancing diamond.

Chopard collections are available at Chopard Boutique, Moda Mall. For more information, please call 1752 0088.

@chopard @bahrainjewellerycentre

Beauty Picks

iS Clinical Cleansing Complex Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm

CLEAN Nice and

After exercising, your face will need extra care to remove sweat and toxins. We’ve selected a few options to help you on this mission! Pick a good cleanser according to your skin type and keep it in your gym kit.

Paula’s Choice Omega + Complex Cleasing Balm

Youth to the People Kale + Green Tea Spinach Vitamins Superfood Cleanser

Set The TONE

This season, the CHANEL Makeup Creation Studio are taking their colour expertise to the next level. The AW 2022/2023 collection is composed of lip and nail hues that perfectly coordinate with the shades of the ULTRA LE TEINT Fluide foundation.

The CHANEL Makeup Creation Studio drew from their expertise in the foundation field, which they have been acquiring and developing for several years, to create an unprecedented collection. The new products go beyond the simple pairing of hues. Each shade was designed with a rosy or golden undertone for a flawless finish giving dimension and radiance to your make-up. The golden pigments envelop the lips and nails in a luminous glow, while the rosy tints provide freshness. With a collection featuring 12 new colours of ROUGE ALLURE lipsticks and LE VERNIS nail polishes, the possibilities are endless. Opt for a combination similar to your complexion for a tone-on-tone look or mix and match to express your personality. Everyone is free to set their own tone. The colour precision of the ULTRA LE TEINT Fluide foundation coordinates with ROUGE ALLURE and LE VERNIS shades to reveal every woman’s individuality. ROUGE ALLURE’s range of satiny, long-lasting lipsticks has an ultra-fine texture that melts onto lips and wears like a second skin. LE VERNIS’ beautifying, protective nail polishes are designed to be durable, ultra-shiny and offer an even, lacquered result. ULTRA LE TEINT Fluide’s ultrapigmented formula delivers a flawless, luminous matte finish and all-day comfort. Choose your favourite trio for a unique autumn and winter beauty look.

Just Like SKIN

The new Teint Fétiche La Poudre, for men and women, is Christian Louboutin’s latest beauty offering – a new addition to the house’s magic-sprinkled collections.

Christian Louboutin has always known that beauty comes in many shades. Its new Teint Fétiche La Poudre powder is available in nine nude hues and is weightless and smooth, offering a radiant lumi-matte glow. The silicone oils in its formula make it blendable and easy to apply. However, the star ingredient is ruby powder, which has energising and detoxifying properties.

The beauty item comes in a luxurious refillable case and the crest detail on it has been hand-stitched with gold thread to create the distinctive insignia that adorns it. Inside, a wide mirror and a branded brush allow glamorous retouches at any time. For those who prefer to purchase cruelty-free beauty items – the product is vegan and not tested on animals.

INSTANTLY UNBLEMISHED

This buildable powder is ideal for achieving a flawless complexion and uniform, smooth finish. It enhances the skin’s texture to look plumper, more even, sublime and natural. A light whisper or fuller coverage, it’s all possible and easy to achieve.

HOLD WITH COMFORT

The powder is long-lasting and the natural hold and feel provide an elevated bare look. Use it alone or as a final magical touch to your make-up.

SCULPT WITH GRACE

Create a more sophisticated look with a deeper shade by accentuating the areas of the face that tan first.

momento friday brunch

Sip your drinks overlooking the desert panorama and listen to the live entertainment. Relax while the very best of Mediterranean cuisine served to your table. Every Friday, 12PM - 4PM at Momento Restaurant and Terrace, Al Areen Palace & Spa by Accor.

It!

This autumn collection is a retro revival that reimagines past eras’ fashionable colours and patterns. The shades in the range feature six brand-new, stunningly crafted autumnal hues. With a mix of soft neutrals balanced by ultra-rich statement shades, this capsule has a little something for everyone. Style is always in season with the new Plaid Reputation. If you are on the hunt for chic earthy tones, then try the pale nude crème, Tweed Me! and the dusty sand crème, Wool You Love Me? For those interested in trendy finger tips, Tailored For You, a grey-blue crème, and It’s All About The Twill, a lilac grey crème, are just what you’ve been waiting for. The deeply saturated purple pearl, Follow Suit, and the gorgeous deep scarlet crème, Tartan The Interruption, round out the line. Not only are the colours unique and stylish, but their names are entertaining. The Plaid Reputation Fall 2022 collection from Gelish and Morgan Taylor is available for a limited time.

@gelishbahrain

Featuring alluring autumnal colours, Gelish and Morgan Taylor’s Plaid Reputation Fall 2022 collection allows you to create retro-inspired looks and much more.

Our Spanish version of ladies night. Sangria making class with complimentary sangrias for ladies only. Continue the fun with 50% discount on selected handcrafted cocktails. Live flamenco performance is also available from 8:00pm onwards.

The year’s colder months are the best time to treat skin issues. Melissa Nazareth investigates some non-invasive surgical treatments and procedures that can fight annoying complexion conditions.

While every face is beautiful, some get away with minimal skincare. But the rest of us needn’t despair. We spoke with experts in non-invasive surgical treatments who shared their views on common skin problems and ways to help boost your skin quality, as well as offering useful tips.

Regarding the most common issues and their causes, the experts at Bioskinspa say that wrinkles appear mainly due to the loss of collagen. This problem can happen naturally with age or by factors such as exposure to UV rays, exaggerated facial expressions and use of cosmetics, especially bad quality ones, stress, sudden weight loss, smoking, poor diet and lack of exercise.

Dark circles and hyperpigmentation are not necessarily related to age. The genetic factor can be one of the leading causes. Other reasons include malnutrition, lack of iron in the blood, smoking and stress.

Hormones certainly play a major role in the appearance of acne. However, all age groups may suffer from it. Some women may experience breakouts occurring at different stages due to hormonal changes.

What non-invasive surgical treatments does Bioskinspa offer? Some of the most important ones include the 4D skin rejuvenator, a fully integrated treatment session with innovative working technology that merges four different treatment techniques.

The Eye Perfection session employs radio frequencies in addition to pumping focused oxygen on the eye contour and uses a special vitamin cocktail rich in a concentrated formula to restore vitality and youth to the targeted area.

The Acne Free treatment is only employed after correctly diagnosing the skin. It is crucial to treat the inside of the spots in a focused manner by using amino acids to ensure the area is left sterilised and without any traces of infection.

BEAUTY

Column

Dr Emil Yengibaryan from Bogari Denta Derma Center observes that acne, rosacea, pigmentation and melasma – a skin condition characterised by brown or blue-grey patches or freckle-like spots – are common problems. He explains: “Acne is caused due to blocked hair follicles on the skin that lead to oil and bacteria in the pores.” Pores are tiny openings in your skin that release oil and sweat and can frequently get clogged. The result is redness and lesions – bacteria can cause inflammation and infection, worsening the condition. Rosacea causes facial flushing or sudden reddening of the face, visibility of small blood vessels or veins and pimples.

Dr Emil advises: “RF microneedling is a skin treatment that combines the methods of microneedling and radio frequency to target particular skin conditions and improve the overall texture, integrity and look of the skin.” RF or radio frequency and microneedling are two separate procedures. When combined, they can be used to treat skin issues effectively. Microneedling involves pricking the skin with tiny, sterilised needles, which triggers the production of collagen and elastin that heals your skin, making you look younger. RF involves controlled thermal damage to deeper layers of skin using a wand, which again induces the production of collagen. In RF microneedling, the needle, in addition to pricking, releases high-intensity radio frequency energy into the targeted tissue, causing additional damage and enhancing the effects. Laser treatments are effective in treating spider veins and rosacea. The laser transmits photons that are absorbed by the blood cells in the veins, which generates heat that destroys the blood vessel. The damaged vein shrinks and eventually dissolves over time.

It’s important to follow certain dos and don’ts before and after these procedures. Bioskinspa’s professional team advises leaving at least two weeks between treatments such as Botox or thread lifting. “You must inform of any allergies you may have to certain products or ingredients or if you have high sensitivity," they say. "After the treatment, and to get better results, it is preferable not to use make-up for at least 24 hours. Use sun protection and have a personalised daily skincare routine.” Further, they advise on the basic five steps: cleansing, toning, applying face serums, moisturising and eye-area care. They also recommend maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and water and following a customised skincare routine. Also, frequent spa treatments for hydration, extra glow and to unify the skin tone are recommended. During winter, dryness, roughness and itchiness are common. Bioskinspa experts recommend preventative treatments such as antioxidant care with a silver mask, anti-ageing treatments with a 24-carat gold mask, like the Iced Precious Gold Mask, a hydrating skincare routine and gentle products that soothe the skin, preferably with horse chestnut seed and peppermint extract.

Dr Emil strongly advises against self-treatment. “Always consult with your doctor and, after the procedure, follow your doctor’s instructions,” he says. He also shares some skincare tips: drink a lot of water, eat healthy food, use sunblock with at least SPF 30 and use moisturising lotions. Also, get skin booster injections and biostimulators for refreshing, hydrating and reshaping skin texture. For the winter, he adds: “Switch from lotion to cream, take shorter showers and don’t skip sunscreen.”

Connect with the experts @bioskinspadoha and @bogaridentaderma

LA VIE EN ROSE

This month, OHLALA’s editor embarked on a pink pampering journey at Dessange Paris Bahrain.

BEAUTY

Boutique

Like every year, October is painted in pink at Dessange. The month is dedicated to raising awareness of breast cancer and the beauty haven weighs in on this fight with a Pink Facial, a Pink Punch Smoothie and a manicure that can add a coat of rose tones to support the cause. I joined them in embracing the theme to remind you: it’s time to get your yearly check-up done!

Entering the big Dessange villa is like entering a friend’s home. The girls at the reception are always very smiley, call me by name (yes, I am a lucky frequent guest) and are prompt to help. As I was only having a facial treatment at the spa, I didn’t need to get changed into their comfy robe as I was offered to. As much as I wanted to feel hugged by its fluffiness, I didn’t have much time to spare so, hopefully, next time.

I entered the spa area and Riza, my therapist for the day, was already waiting for me. After cleaning my hands with a disposable cloth, we moved to one of the treatment rooms. The nicely lit and perfumed ambience with calming music instantly put me in the right mood. It was time to turn off my phone and forget about the world – at least for the next 30 minutes.

Riza started my relaxing session with Dessange’s welcoming foot ritual, done at the beginning of every spa treatment. A warm towel and foot massage is definitely the best way to start a pampering journey.

The Pink Facial is a mini facial treatment (mini because it doesn’t involve steam and extraction) with LED lights. The first step was cleansing my face, followed by Dessange’s SOS Detox enzymatic peeling mask applied in delicate motions, including the décolletage area. The product was then removed with a warm towel to open and clean the pores. She also used a toner to remove any product residue. An eye and lip rejuvenating cream was applied in the specific areas, along with the Booster de Beauté, a lifting radiance serum (which I also use at home in my beauty routine and love). The Instant de Beauté youth reviving mask came next with a lifting massage. While the mask was left to act, it was time to turn on the blue and red LED lights, place them near my face and let them do their trick. The use of LED lights helps the ingredients in the mask penetrate deeper into the skin and increase the amount of collagen, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. It also fights acne and lightens up dark spots. When it was time to turn off the lights, a cold towel was used to remove the product and close the pores. The treatment was finalised with more lip and eye cream, face serum and Lisse Essentiel anti-ageing moisturising cream. There are a few things to highlight. All the products used are from the Dessange Paris line made with natural ingredients. While my face was soaking all the goodness from the mask with the help of the LED lights (the blue and red combined actually emanated a pink hue), Riza gave me a delightful arm massage, one that I was really in need of. All the massages [face, arms, shoulders] were targeted and applied with different motions; even the facial ones had various movements. I really appreciate that all the Dessange professionals are well trained and know exactly what they are doing and why.

Boutique

The treatment ended and Riza gave me a mirror. I couldn’t believe the difference in my complexion – my dull and tired face was now glowing. My skin felt tighter, resulting in a ten-years-younger look, hydrated and soft. An effect that you want to last forever!

I then moved to the salon area to get my manicure done. Pranita, my manicurist, was starting on my nails when lovely Michele, the lady in charge of Dessange’s café, came to tell me that she was going to prepare my Pink Punch Smoothie. The healthy drink includes pineapple, raspberries, mango, banana and coconut milk and is packed with Omega 3, vitamin C and more. While talking to Michele, I discovered that the upstairs café also serves sandwiches and quiches! I thought they only had juices and smoothies, but you can also grab a bite and order coffee, tea and healthy shots such as the Fluefix with turmeric, lemon, ginger, honey and cayenne to boost your immunity. And best of all, the delights can be enjoyed on the café’s charming balcony.

The manicure process started with some cutting, filing, nail buffing and removal of my dry skin. Pranita then applied a cuticle eraser, pushed the cuticles and applied solar oil (the best elixir for dry nails like mine). My Pink Punch arrived and it was as delicious as I expected it to be. It also came at the right time, before my hands got scrubbed with an aromatic lavender exfoliator and moisturiser and enveloped into hot mittens to help the lotion penetrate my skin. After some minutes, she removed the gloves and I got another arm massage. Pranita mentioned that my muscles were too tight and I needed to stretch my arms while working (guess what I am doing right now?). In honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we chose five tones of pink to cover my fingertips for an ombre effect. I went home and added a reminder to my calendar to get my health checked. Thank you, Dessange, for another wonderful experience and helping me care for myself. See you soon!

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

The Power of Coaching

This month, OHLALA spoke to Sarah Almawy, a life coach, about this interesting career and how this kind of tutoring can be helpful to tweens and teenagers.

OHLALA - How did your professional life go from teaching to life coaching? And what exactly does a life coach do?

Sarah Almawy - I graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor’s in Education and have spent the past 18 years as an educator, teaching young children. They taught me a lot about patience, gratitude and making quick decisions and for that, I will be forever thankful. I recently realised that, as my children got older, patience and the importance of listening without judgement were the cornerstones to healthy relationships with their peers and parents. This was when I knew that my true calling was going to be becoming a life coach for tweens, teens and their caregivers. As a life coach, I actively and compassionately listen without judgement and try, to the best of my ability, to offer them tools for their own individual survival. I help them reach their goals and aspirations through learned tools and strategies.

OHLALA - How does someone become a life coach? Is there a specific qualification?

Sarah - In order to become a qualified life coach, there are a minimum number of hours that you must have under your belt in coaching sessions (60+ hours). The International Coaching Federation is an excellent place to start when looking for a credentialled coaching programme because it is known worldwide. My training was done with Coach Training Alliance where, for the span of the programme, we were subjected to theory as well as practical coaching hours that were intense and inspiring.

OHLALA - What is the biggest difference between life coaching and psychology? Where do you draw the line between what should be treated by each?

Sarah -The difference between coaching and psychology or therapy is subtle and the hope is that the lines do not get blurred. Whereas psychology aims at dealing with issues or emotions from the past and helping transcend them in the present, coaching aims at unveiling a person’s inner strengths to reach present or future goals. Both aim at bettering a person, but with coaching, the job is left to the client with the navigation from the coach.

OHLALA - What kind of treatments can a life coach offer?

Sarah - The niches for life coaching are far too many to state. It all depends on the coach’s understanding and mastery of the niche they want to work with. We are all specialised in

a specific area. Some examples are relationship, executive business, teen, entrepreneur, mindset and accountability, health and fitness and career.

OHLALA - You are specialised in kids and teenagers. What are the biggest challenges and gains of working with this age group?

Sarah - My speciality in tween and teen coaching springs from my years of teaching and from being surrounded by this age group. It is astounding to me the number of times that kids seek help in certain situations and they are constantly seen as being ‘difficult’ or ‘dramatic’. If these issues are brushed under the rug, they could percolate and adversely affect school work, family relationships and self-worth. Our future depends on them, so why not give them a chance to discover their abilities and put them to good use? The biggest challenge working with this age group is having them open up and trust that I, as a coach, will be their confidant but, when they feel more at ease, the amount of insight that comes from them is amazing. The biggest gain of working with this age group is their thirst for learning new strategies and tools to help them navigate in their lives.

OHLALA - What are you looking for when applying your life coaching training?

Sarah - As a life coach, my training and experience have taught me to start slow with clients. Baby steps. No one needs to rush into any conversation or problem-solving mode when they are in need of opening up. Building trust takes time, especially with the age group that I coach. Patience is key and always pays off positively for both the client and the coach.

OHLALA - What message would you like to pass on with your work?

Sarah - My aim in becoming a life coach is to shed light on the importance of listening to our kids and picking up on the fact that they may be asking for help in one way or another. My goal is to help them unlock their potential and capabilities. The idea of seeking out a life coach is very new and still has some taboos associated with it, but our goal as caregivers first and foremost needs to be the health, mental and physical, of our children. There will always be a safe and respectable environment between the client and me. I hope that during and after the sessions, the client will walk away with a brighter take on their lives as a whole.

“No one needs to rush into any conversation or problem-solving mode when they are in need of opening up.”

- Sarah Almawy

Elegance for All

The new season is here and Leem revealed the first drop of their Autumn and Winter 2022/2023 collection in stores and on digital platforms. The design house is known for fashion-forward and inclusive creations with impeccable cuts inspired by the latest trends.

The collection brings contemporary and chic styles defined by a timeless look with an edgy twist. The range features carefully curated wardrobe staples from kaftans and abayas to matching separates. Elevated loungewear sets and flattering all-day wear pave the way to effortless streetwear expression.

Leem also gives special attention to cosy comfort with unique farwa and bisht (traditional Arabic coats) designs for stylish winter nights.

Each silhouette is tailored to perfection and enhanced with striking details. The pieces are constructed with intricate embroidery, luxe fabrics, exclusive prints and metal details. Reinvented shapes and a love affair with pleats give the final tone to the designs. The colour palette consists of iconic neutrals such as khaki and white infused with bold accents of burgundy, dark green, plum, cobalt and teal.

Leem is a brand that has been dedicated to creating modest wear for contemporary women since its conception four years ago. They understand that it is possible to develop creative designs and have built their own signature that can be spotted in each new collection.

Fine materials and creative designs are the key ingredients in Leem’s Autumn and Winter 2022/2023 collection.

REVAMP

With the return of autumn and the turning of a new leaf, you might be looking for a way to make your space better suited to the season. Here are a few tips to give your home a cosier look.

OHLALA Homes

COVER ME

When it comes to sofa and pillow coverings, designers predict that textured and nubby fabrics will be the winning horses in the race for comfortable and luxurious upholstery.

When you visit Scout & Nimble’s website, a home décor e-retailer, they highlight the latest trends and offer a selection of stylish pieces. For instance, they affirm that: “Bouclé is the perfect mix of cosy and durable and its ‘nubby’ textured appearance is highly tactile and adds a plush, modern visual interest to any room.” The company also recommends shearling or ‘teddy bear material’ as well as corduroy, adding: “Corduroy is making a comeback and not just in fashion. It’s taking on a different iteration in interior design, with upholstery channelling — when fabrics feature equally-spaced, vertical or horizontal channels for a plush visual effect. Growing in popularity, corduroy lends itself well to autumn-inspired designs. Its soft structure and channelled texture make it a compelling choice for use on sofas, chairs, even throw pillows.”

Many interior designers use blogs to share their tips and valuable insights. Jane at Home – a home and lifestyle blog – also argues that nubby textured fabrics are big in this year’s interior design. It says that choosing natural fabrics with weight and texture, like chunky cotton and wool throws, bouclé, velvet, leather and linen, instantly makes your home feel warmer. Even if you don’t want to go through the hassle of altering your furniture’s upholstery, simply swap your throw pillows, bedding and rugs for these thicker and cosier versions. Introducing decadent velvet pillows is an easy way to instantly add a touch of warmth. The blog concludes: “Textured fabrics mix well with all other materials, bringing a grounding and timeless quality to a space that will continue to resonate with our lifestyles in this season and beyond.”

OHLALA

WALL DESIGN

When it comes to wallpaper or paint, we often get bogged down over what would best suit the room it covers. With the advent of slightly cooler weather coming our way, a little upgrade could do no harm and put us in that warm and snuggly mood in preparation for winter.

Interesting wall textures from the Italian company De Castelli, specialised in surfaces, include Copycat by Cino Zucchi, an edgy but elegant hexagonal tile mosaic made of brass, copper and stainless steel pre-assembled on fibreglass. Another is Circle Wall by R&D, which boasts bold circular fittings made of satin oxidised and brushed metal with autumn hues. The look presents both cool and warm tones, cool because of the metallic element and warm because of the rich auburn and gold colours that perfectly represent the season.

For those who prefer a more laid-back and calmer look, simply changing the wall colours with paint does just the trick. Scout & Nimble recommend: “Warm beiges, browns, creams, and greens have a calming, comforting effect and complement the use of other natural materials and interior design elements such as wood tones and greenery.”

They also contend that modernised or ‘muddy’ primary colours — such as rich, darker reds and light, muted blues — maintain a natural look while reflecting the season’s changing light through deep, shadowy undertones and create a warm, intimate space that encapsulates the relaxed and inviting feel of autumn.

ACCESSORISE

Once you have your furniture, fabrics and wall textures sorted, you can look at adding some accessories for that essential cherry on the cake to complete the vibe.

Common accessories include wreaths, candles and fairy lights. Though they may be a bit cliché, they could nevertheless add a particularly aesthetic and warm feeling to your home. You can even collect dried branches from your garden and place them in a vase on your mantle. This easy trick adds a highly decorative touch to your décor. Natural elements are unique and a great alternative to simply purchasing fake decorations.

A commemoration of the season would not be complete with one of the most beautiful parts of nature: flowers. They add freshness and light fragrance to your home and are simply lovely to have, especially on the dining table. Common flowers of this season include sunflowers, African daisies and coneflowers. You can also go for other greenery, including sage and lavender, which emanate an exceptionally cosy scent.

URBAN RETREAT

A staycation in the company of her best friend is what Sara Waddah experienced at the new Hilton Bahrain, a pet-friendly and well-located spot in Juffair.

Escapes

Having explored most of the beaches and trendy hotspots in Bahrain during the year, it was pretty exciting to hear that the newest Hilton Hotel had opened up!

Overlooking the Kingdom’s sparkling waters and only about 4km from Bahrain National Museum, Hilton Bahrain finally opened its doors in Juffair, offering 348 beautifully designed guest rooms, six on-site restaurants and a well-rounded urban experience that we could not get enough of.

I got a little too excited about this particular staycation though, as I packed my bag – I made sure to include some food and treats for my best friend since he was coming along!

As the aggressively excited wagging of the tail began, me and my furry friend, Blackberry, jumped in the car and headed out on our latest adventure.

As we reached the lobby of the Hilton Hotel, the ever-sokind concierge team helped with our luggage and welcomed me inside. Not even moments later, the Director of Food & Beverage was already kneeling on the ground welcoming Blackberry into the hotel with cuddles. He was loving the attention so far.

The check-in process was extremely smooth – I had to answer some questions about my four-legged friend (his weight and age) and received a well-put-together letter with useful insights for our stay! These included where we could take a walk, pet grooming facilities, pet-sitting services, in-room pet massages as well as pet in-room dining.

Honestly, at this point, I was already beyond elated with all the interactions Berry and I were getting before we had even entered our room. The lovely team at the Hilton had put us up on one of their highest floors in a 72sq/m King Deluxe Studio with phenomenal views of the sea from every corner.

My room was equipped with a 55-inch smart TV (that rotates so you can comfortably watch from the bed or even from the plush sofa bed in the living area), a full kitchenette, a dining table, a designated wardrobe area and a stunningly long balcony to enjoy the views. I put our things down and soaked in luxury. There’s something quite refreshing about feeling at home, even when you’re not at home.

Berry ran around the room in circles as he got acquainted with the new location – luckily, the hotel had prepared for him his very own special bed with a toy and set up feeding bowls for him to use. We both made ourselves at home very quickly, got comfy and ready to enjoy the sunset from our 27th-floor view.

Having taken the day off to spend some quality time with my best friend, we both sat down to explore the hotel’s 24-hour inroom dining menu for a late afternoon treat – I enjoyed some deliciously crispy fish fingers whilst he munched away on his dry food.

LOCAL

Escapes

The urban-styled studio made for just the perfect getaway in the city. With chic paintings decorating the walls, a modern finishing to the rest of the room, and a mixture of blue, beige and neutral-coloured furniture, this was just the right vibe I was looking for to unwind. Opening the balcony door to step out and overlook skyscrapers and the beautiful ocean of blue, I sighed with contentment as I watched the day turn into dusk and the city lights start to light up the skies.

I also thoroughly enjoyed sleeping in that magnificent kingsized bed. Luckily for my furry friend, he even found himself up there with me as we snoozed several alarms before finally waking up the next morning. I opened the blinds to let in some sunlight through the large windows, got in a few stretches and quickly got dressed to catch the breakfast buffet on the sixth floor.

Entering the all-day dining restaurant, Origin Kitchen & Culture, you could just feel (and definitely smell) the good energy and high vibrations of the morning. With breakfast options laid out strategically all around the venue, I picked the corner table with some of the best scenic views and set out on a mission.

From a live egg station to hot and cold foods, to fruits and desserts and even a gluten-free stand, I ensured that I sincerely indulged in the day’s most important meal. They also had tons of coffee machines available – I like mine cold during the summer, so they were sweet enough to put in the extra work and make sure that it was delivered to me!

After breakfast, I took a quick stroll to explore the rest of the hotel. Outside, there’s a fantastic pool equipped with a bar that serves refreshments, closely followed by the Cocoluna Lounge, radiating all the chill vibes, and Cocoon Wellness Spa, which boasts all the luxury of its Bali birthplace. And the new Hilton has some of the most urban-chic looking meeting rooms I’ve seen around town.

The 45-storey hotel and residences is the first of its kind in Juffair. Aside from the fact that they are a pet-friendly hotel, Hilton Bahrain also boasts an incredible portfolio of food and beverage venues, recreational facilities and a well-rounded experience for all those that visit.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call Hilton Bahrain on 7701 0100 or visit www.bahrain.hilton.com @hiltonbahrain

Escapes

THE FRUITS OF NATURE

October is here and, with the changing of the season and the weather, Amal Sarhan looks towards three verdant corners of our planet. The destinations bathe you in natural wonder and tranquil scenery as she explores these cherished areas that will make you feel as one with the earth.

JASPER NATIONAL PARK, CANADA Surrounding the town of Jasper is Canada’s Jasper National Park – named a UNESCO World Heritage Site – with glimmering glaciers, verdant forests, azure blue lakes, plentiful wildlife, high, crashing waterfalls, deep, yawning canyons and lofty mountains. With an area of 11,228sq/km, the park is the largest in the Rocky Mountains and the second largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world. It offers unforgettable adventures, including alpine day hiking, mountain biking, skating and horseback riding. Visitors can also take scenic drives and picnic in the woods, as well as enjoy viewing the wildlife and learning about the surrounding habitat. For those who want to pamper themselves, don’t forget to visit The Spa at Fairmont Jasper Spa Lounge. Perhaps Jasper’s most adored hidden gem is Spirit Island, a quaint and tiny island in Maligne Lake located off the beaten path and tucked away in the Rocky Mountains. The lake is surrounded by three peaks of the same mountain range, which is quite rare and offers the most beautiful, picturesque view. You can either paddle to the island, which takes about four hours from Home Bay, or take the cruise, which will get you there in about two hours.

The cruise will also take you through the Maligne Valley, which offers breathtaking scenery of the Rockies’ flora and fauna and abundant wildlife. You will stop at Maligne Canyon to embark on two famous bridges which look out onto majestic waterfalls that cascade onto ancient limestone found in the area.

TRAVEL

Escapes

FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK, NEW ZEALAND

This heavenly sanctuary is lined and dotted with towering mountain ranges, deep sounds, vast azure-blue lakes, colossal waterfalls and crowded forests. Home to three of New Zealand’s greatest hiking tracks, the park is located in the internationally celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site Te Wahipounamu, once called the eighth wonder of the world by renowned English poet Rudyard Kipling. Perhaps the most treasured part of the national park is its fiords or ‘sounds’, of which Milford and Doubtful are the largest. The best way to explore these pockets of heaven and witness the beauty of the wildlife is by kayak, including shorter kayaking day trips or, if you feel more daring, multi-day kayaking trips where you get to camp in the wonderous wilderness of the park’s woods. You can additionally take the overnight cruise as you doze off to the tranquil soft splashes of the sounds. As you go deeper, look out for bottlenose dolphins and fur seals. When disembarking, take a kayak or small boat to explore the coastline. You’ll just be able to catch the native Fiordland Crested Penguin or Tawaki, whose breeding season ends in November, as well as the Kokora, known as the smallest penguins in the world. Don’t forget to visit the Punanga Manu o Te Anau Bird Sanctuary to meet some of the rarest native bird species, including the flightless Takahē and the Kākā, the native forest parrot.

Lake Te Anau is another prized spectacle of the park and is the largest in the world of the southern glacial lakes. Surrounded by fiords and high mountain ranges, its broad waters induce a great sense of calm. Take the scenic boat cruise across the lake and pass by the sculpted limestone, whirlpools and tumbling waterfalls before heading into the Glowworm Caves as you admire the glittering creatures overhead. Lastly, a trip to Fiordland would not be complete without setting out on a hiking trail. The well-known Milford Track will usher you through dense beech and pod carp forests, snow-capped summits, magnificent waterfalls and deep green valleys.

FUJI HAKONE IZU NATIONAL PARK, JAPAN

Mount Fuji, the lone but sublime volcanic peak, has dominated Japan’s culture and history for centuries and is a symbol of Japanese beauty, identity and art, as seen in many of the renowned Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai’s works. The peak is adorned with snow for much of the year. As you wander through the evergreen forests and explore the surrounding regions of the marvel, all of which has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will feel both a sense of calm and overwhelming awe. South of Mount Fuji are the Izu Islands, which harbour a curious natural charm seldom found anywhere else. The islands are home to a variety of unusual migratory birds and plant species, especially at the Hakone Botanical Gardens, which houses over 3,000 species. Grab the chance to swim with Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins off the coast of the islands or snorkel to see the underwater lava formations. You can also explore the park’s many lava caves, bathe in its hot springs and admire the majesty of Shiraito Falls.

Stroll through the labyrinthine and luscious beech forests or hike the Odoriko Trail Road from the town of Kawazu until you come across seven lovely waterfalls known as Kawazu Nanadaru. Trek the paths that meander through the vast Aokigahara Jukai forest located on Mount Fuji’s slopes and revel in a few hours of ‘forest bathing’ or mindful walking among the trees, a scientifically proven Japanese therapy known as Shinrin-Yoku. Finally, walk up the Old Tokaido Road from Moto-Hakone to a 400-yearold teahouse called Amazake Chaya, where you can relish the traditional Japanese rice drink as well as some rice cakes.

MOUNT FUJI

SHIRAITO

FALLS

OHLALA’s team enjoyed an incredible evening at The Quarry, and Fernanda Langhammer tells us all the details about this novel destination.

Do you like to watch shows in a private environment?

Or are you looking for a place with a lounge vibe, good music, exceptional food and an array of drink options?

I know it sounds impossible to have this all in the same place. However, in Bahrain now, you can find such an exciting concept at one address, a site called The Quarry. The restaurant/bar/lounge/ entertainment destination (it isn’t easy to define this superb place) is located at Al Dana Amphitheatre. The Quarry is a brand made in Bahrain by Bahraini owners that supports local artists.

A quarry is typically a large, deep pit from which stone or other materials have been extracted. And they couldn’t have found a better name for this place. From the outside, I couldn’t possibly predict what I was about to discover. After walking down a long concrete ramp, I reached The Quarry entrance. Behind the automated doors was this massive, well-lit and sophisticated space. When I arrived, there was still some daylight, so the natural light from the ceiling took over the area where I sat with my work colleagues – such a beautiful scene. The Quarry is open from 5pm onwards from Wednesdays to Saturdays for now.

I was still in a state of awe when I was introduced to Brian, our attentive host responsible for taking me on a tour of the place. Yes, you read that right, a tour. The space is divided into different areas to accommodate everyone’s preferences. There is a sector dedicated to malts and The Quarry has a wide

selection of them. The area is cosy and, despite being a bit removed from the main stage, it is the perfect spot to enjoy a more tranquil night in the company of your favourite enhancers. Near the counter in this part of the restaurant, there is a big glass window from where you can peak at the stage in the Al Dana Amphitheatre; how cool is that?!

Moving to the restaurant space, we entered a closed area with glass panels creating the perfect setting for a dining scenario. This is a non-smoking room for those looking for an undisturbed dining experience. There, they also prepare their fresh loaves of bread and have a wide variety of nuts, cold cuts, a meat ageing area and cheeses. A Mexican beverage bar, a staple in many Central and South American drinks, is also available for those lovers of this agave plant extract.

After crossing the restaurant enclosure, you find another bar with a casual atmosphere and probably the best tables to just enjoy a drink and a few snacks. Brian and I then reached the stage area which has a careful setting created to give you the best view of the shows. Right in front is a big platform that accommodates the 25 members of their resident show and receives international names in the likes of The Gipsy Kings, Eric Gales and Adriatique. They have a Q Night Show happening from Wednesday to Saturday from 9pm onwards. And if you want total privacy, you can book the VIP round sofa corner that becomes more exclusive when the velvet curtains enclose the space.

CHIC Eats

At this point, I have to highlight a few things: everything you eat there, from the aged meat to the ice cream, bread and butter, is made in-house; you can order from the main menu, no matter where you choose to sit; the setting is never the same, so it will be a surprise every time you go and last, but not least, the music that is being played on stage can be heard from every corner of this luxurious gallery. As the night arrived, I noticed a beautifully lit stone wall in front of me – a reinforcement to the quarry reference.

According to Brian, the cuisine served has a mix of international and European roots with The Q (how they affectionately refer to the place) twist. The first dish our party tried was the Tenderloin Carpaccio, thin layers of impeccable beef drizzled in truffle mayo, parmesan cheese, parsley aioli, a hint of mustard and crunchy fried capers. You can picture how the slices were so incredibly tender they melted in the mouth with the perfect combination of ingredients. The second was a Seabream Ceviche made with cucumber, yoghurt, chilli and unexpected coconut flakes. It had a delicious herby taste with the right tart hint. The third appetiser was the classic Burrata Salad with cherry tomatoes, pickled onions and a crispy and delightful grilled potato focaccia.

We were having a fantastic time when the main courses arrived. First, we had the Seabass X Ravioli; the fish was firm with a crunchy skin accompanied by a ricotta stuffed ravioli. The different textures and flavours resulted in a well-balanced dish. We were then served a simple Spaghettini Arabiata with spicy tomato sauce, garlic, basil and parmesan cheese (a lot

of it). The truth is that it wasn’t that simple; it had an intense flavour of great piquancy. One of my colleagues, who is not a pasta enthusiast, chose it as the star dish of the evening, so I guess that says it all. The Wiener Schnitzel was a paper-thin veal schnitzel with a crispy coating accompanied by cranberry jam and tartare sauce. It was served with parsley potatoes, another favourite.

If you have any diet restrictions, the team at The Quarry is ready to accommodate them with remarkable creations. We had an amazing vegan miso eggplant that tasted divine. Perfectly cooked with a smoky flavour and crunchy vegetables – a delicious dish for plant lovers!

For dessert, we had the White Chocolate X Strawberries composed of ice cream, whipped cream, fresh strawberries and white chocolate – a mouthful of yumminess that was both sweet and slightly tart thanks to the fruit. We also had the exquisite Peach X Basil with peachy basil sorbet, peach mousse, almond crumble and white chocolate – everyone’s favourite for its singular combination.

It was time to say goodbye to the lovely team at The Q, a goodbye full of I’ll see you soon! Most definitely a place to go if you are looking for something different that you would usually only find in the world’s biggest capitals – if you actually manage to come across something like The Quarry anywhere else.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call The Quarry on 1745 4445.

@thequarrybahrain

CHIC Eats

DINE IN STYLE

Enjoy this month’s selection of Halloween celebrations, Breast Cancer Awareness themed-offers, Friday brunches and Saturday fiestas.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

La Mosaique Restaurant

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

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

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

Spices

Celebrate Diwali, the Indian festival of light, with a decadent array of delicious fare at Spices. Dine like royalty and savour authentic Indian dishes spiced perfectly by Chef Pramod and enjoy live cooking stations. In honour of the festival and to keep you and your family immersed in the experience throughout the event, the restaurant has prepared a karaoke night to sing your favourite Indian songs. The offer runs on October 24 from 7pm to 1am and is priced at BD25 net inclusive of selected beverages, BD15 net including soft beverages and BD7 net for children ages six to 12.

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

DOWNTOWN ROTANA

Flavours on 2

Enjoy a Mediterranean Flavours Lunch Buffet with friends and family. The offer runs daily except on Fridays, from 12pm to 3.30pm and is priced at BD12 net, with 25% discount valid until the end of October.

Call 3360 5070 or 1311 9999 for more information or to make a reservation.

DOWNTOWN ROTANA

Teatro

Enjoy an Infinite Sushi Night at Teatro. The offer runs every Wednesday, from 6pm to 10pm, and is priced at BD19 net.

Call 3360 5070 or 1311 9999 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

Bahrain Bay Kitchen

The award-winning Friday Brunch at Bahrain Bay Kitchen welcomes you with one-of-a-kind culinary delights from the ever-popular Arabic, carvery, wok, tandoori, seafood, and sushi dedicated live cooking stations.

Enjoy an extended buffet offering with new and enticing delicacies such as Pinsa Romana, fresh pasta, an assortment of Peruvian ceviche dishes, Asian bao buns, and wide cheese and dessert selections. The offer runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at BD35 net per person, including soft beverages and BD48 net per person, including selected beverages. Children ages from six to 12 get a 50% discount, while children below five dine for free.

Call 1711 5500 or email diningreservations.bahrain@fourseasons.com for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

CUT by Wolfgang Puck

Enjoy a Friday Brunch with family and friends while enjoying Wolfgang Puck’s favourite dishes. The offer runs every Friday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm and is priced at BD36 net per person inclusive of soft beverages and BD50 net per person inclusive of selected beverages.

Call 1711 5500 or email diningreservations.bahrain@fourseasons.com for more information or to make a reservation.

CHIC Eats

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

Al Waha

Enjoy a BBQ extravaganza like no other! Don’t miss out on a fine selection of rich red meat by the BBQ pit and local American street food and hops. The offer runs every Monday from 7pm to 10.30pm and is priced at BD18 for the standard package and BD29 net inclusive of selected beverages.

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

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

Fusions by Tala

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience at Fusions by Tala with a curated Saturday Brunch designed to expand your palate with the best of Bahraini food and culinary artistry. The offer runs every Saturday from 12pm to 5pm and is priced at BD35 inclusive of soft beverages and BD45 inclusive of selected drinks.

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

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

Legendz Steakhouse

Legendz’s newly launched Gourmet series introduces exclusive culinary experiences based on seasonal ingredients. The monthly experience brought to you every last Thursday of the month presents new bespoke flavours every month. Indulge in this month’s theme of the ever-popular truffles accompanied by grape pairings to stimulate all senses! The offer runs on October 27, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, and is priced at BD37 net.

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

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

Noor Lounge

Socialise with friends and family at Noor Lounge for some Afternoon Tea, including tea and delicious bites. The offer runs every Thursday and Friday from 4pm to 7pm and is priced at BD6.5 net per person, with unlimited top-ups on tea and an additional BD4 net for bubbles.

Call 1720 8308 or 3880 8533 for more information or to make a reservation.

LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Longitude 50

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

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

LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Baharat Restaurant

Join Baharat this October for a RISE Pink Brunch. The offer runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at BD26 net per person inclusive of soft beverages and BD36 net per person inclusive of selected beverages.

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

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Gallery Lobby Lounge & Silk’s Restaurant

Get some quality time with your friends and family over Mövenpick brunch. Enjoy happy moments of exquisite culinary delights and a pleasant atmosphere with live entertainment. The offer runs on Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD33+++ net per person, including unlimited selected beverages. Children from ages six to 12 receive a 50% discount and children under six dine for free.

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

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Silk’s Restaurant

Dive in and taste the freshest catch of the day, including a selection of popular and traditional seafood dishes, for the perfect night out. Seafood lovers will find a vast range of aquatic delicacies, from sushi, sashimi, seafood dim sum dumplings, oysters, slipper lobster and tiger prawns to popular fish like hammour and red snapper. Enjoy a Halloween-themed Seafood Night on 31. The offer runs on Mondays from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD22+++ per person, inclusive of unlimited soft beverages and water, and BD26+++ per person, inclusive of unlimited grapes, hops and soft beverages.

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

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Saraya Restaurant

Experience the Kingdom’s beloved Grand Brunch at Sofitel Bahrain. Enjoy an extensive range of international gastronomic delights with topclass live performances. Your kids can also enjoy a dedicated kids’ corner with special activities. The offer runs on October 7, 14, 21 and 28, with a dedicated Superhero Brunch on October 7 and a Halloween-themed Brunch on October 28. The offer is priced at BD36 net per person inclusive of soft and selected beverages.

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

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Rivaaj Restaurant

Discover the decadent array of dishes as your palate is taken 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 inclusive of soft beverages and BD25 net per person inclusive of selected beverages.

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

CHIC Eats

THE ART HOTEL & RESORT Choices

Brunch in style! Feast on bottomless platters and beverages while being enchanted by live music by The Angels. The offer runs on October 7 from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD26 net per person and BD36 net per person inclusive of selected beverages.

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

THE ART HOTEL & RESORT

Kids’ Playground

Join The Art Hotel & Resort kids’ playground for an autumn-themed carnival featuring fun activities for the little ones, live entertainment and tasty treats. The offer runs from October 19 to 29, from 5.30pm to 9pm, and is priced at BD8 per person, including BD5 worth of coupons.

Children aged 12 and below enter for free.

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

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Furn Bakery & Rotunda

Enjoy a Pink Afternoon Tea, including a spread of finger sandwiches, homemade scones with jam and a colourful array of pastries. The offer runs from Sunday to Thursday, from 2.30pm to 5.30pm, and is priced at BD12 inclusive of unlimited tea and coffee.

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

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Salero

Join Salero for a Spanish Saturday fiesta ambience. Socialise and share traditional tapas and Spanish red and white fruity drinks as you sway to live DJ music 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 3553 8150 or visit @salerobahrain for more information or to make a reservation.

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN

Origins Restaurant

Origins Restaurant is giving you the chance to experience true Spanish flavours along with some international favourites at the Spanish Vida Friday Brunch. If you’re looking for ways to spice up your palate, the bright and beautiful beachside brunch space will take you for a Spaniard spin on the classic brunch escapade. Sip on some special cocktails as you run away from the city buzz with live entertainment and free-flowing drinks for a bubblier weekend. The offer runs on October 14, from 1pm to 4pm, and is priced at BD28 net for adults, inclusive of soft drinks, BD34 net for adults, inclusive of selected drinks, and BD14 net for children from ages six to 12, with all Spanish citizens getting a 25% discount.

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

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN

Origins Restaurant

Some terrifying treats and freaky fun and magic await during the Halloween weekend at Vida Halloween Friday Brunch. Round up the family to mingle at Origins’ extended brunch buffet offering a wide array of local and international dishes while sipping on some spooktacular cocktails. The little brunchers will be excited to discover a Halloween-themed kidfriendly experience with fun games. Dress up into your best costume to participate in the best-dressed contest and maybe win the mystery prize!

Qix Kids Club has made exciting arrangements with games, activities and hauntingly treasure hunts for the children with fab prizes. The offer runs on October 28, from 1pm to 4pm, and is priced at BD28 net for adults, inclusive of soft drinks, BD34 net for adults, inclusive of selected drinks and BD14 net for children from ages six to 12.

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 and tenderloin with parmesan crust, rib-eye, striploin, garlic chicken wings, lamb chops grilled to perfection and complemented with fresh choices from the salad bar along with lip-smacking grilled pineapple. 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.

WYNDHAM GARDEN MANAMA

Terrase@28 Rooftop Lounge

Make your Diwali a memorable one and celebrate the festival of lights with your family and friends. Experience the classic set menu crafted by chef Jainul Khan. The offer runs on October 24, from 7pm to 11.45pm, and is priced at BD12 net per person.

Call 6639 8787 or email jashan@wyndhamgardenmanama.com for more information or to make a reservation.

Drives

BMW is one of the world’s most recognised brands and for a good reason. Striving for near perfection with every motor vehicle offering produced, they are constantly pushing the envelope in terms of practicality, functionality, innovation and, of course, class.

This month, OHLALA received access to the 2023 BMW 4 Series Grand Coupé 430i, compliments of the exceptional team at Euro Motors.

EXTERIOR

The new BMW Grand Coupé 430i is amongst the latest 4 Series models released by the super brand BMW. The moment we laid eyes on this midsize luxury four-door sedan, we were sold.

The expertly crafted front end of the 430i is characterised by bold lines and broad surfaces that emphasise the three-dimensional structure of the design. The main focal point of this 4 Series Grand Coupé’s expressive front end is the large and vertically prominent BMW kidney grille, flanked by the slim, full-LED headlights. These U-shaped front lamps come with

fibre-optic light guides designed to optimise the daytime driving lights. Bold and precise body lines run from bonnet to boot, drawing the eyes to the frameless windows, flush-fitting handles and 17-inch light alloy wheels. Powerful shoulders add to the 430i’s athletic appearance, as does the pronounced spoiler lip on the tailgate.

At the back, the low-slung, robust stance of the car is underscored by a rear apron with vertical aero lips at its outer edges and a black finish for its lower edge. The ultra-slim, full-LED rear lights have been fashionably darkened and extend well into the flanks, highlighting the vehicle’s width.

INTERIOR

Slipping into the supportive and ultra-comfortable front sport seats of the 430i’s spacious, driver-orientated cockpit, we immediately noted the perfect positioning of the classically designed control panel in the centre console. Also contained in this area is the BMW Controller, as well as the buttons for the Driving Experience Control unit, electromechanical parking brake and the gearshift lever.

“The expertly crafted front end of the 430i is characterised by bold lines and broad surfaces that emphasise the three-dimensional structure of the design.”

DIVA

Drives

High-quality materials and precise workmanship throughout the interior, combined with features such as the fully digital screen grouping formed by the instrument cluster and control display, help to create an atmosphere of modern ambience.

In the back, the comfortable nature of the 430i’s seating continues with ample leg and headroom on offer. Isofix attachments are located at the outer edges of the rear seating and add greatly to the family-friendly nature of this coupé. Further contributing to the functional setup of this sedan is the 470-litre boot space, an area that can be increased up to 1,290 litres with the 40: 20: 40 split rear seats folded flat. An array of additional storage areas can be found throughout the vehicle.

INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY

One of the Grand Coupé 430i’s most impressive features is the standard BMW Operating System 7, conveniently accessed through BMW Live Cockpit Plus. This setup enables easy access to the car’s iDrive operating system through an 8.8-inch control display, along with a 5.1-inch colour display on the instrument cluster.

Through this arrangement, we were able to effortlessly select the control interface best suited for any given situation. Additionally, the control display touchscreen, BMW Controller, and the multifunction buttons on the steering wheel were all conveniently located, user-friendly and very responsive. A range of highly advanced digital services, including the BMW Intelligent Personal Assist, BMW Digital Key, Connected Music and Remote Software Upgrades, are all included in the new 4 Series experience. Furthermore, we found the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system to offer fast and precise route calculation, accurate arrival times and realtime traffic updates extremely useful during peak hour traffic. Smartphone integration is also fitted as standard in the 430i and is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

SAFETY & ASSISTANCE

The 430i has been designed to uphold the sterling safety reputation earned by the BMW brand over its many decades of car production. Along with various airbags located throughout the interior, the 430i boasts 40 optional and standard assistance functions designed to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all occupants.

Standard assistance features include an Anti-lock Braking System, Frontal Collision Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, Park Distance Control, a Reversing Assist Camera and Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant.

POWER & PERFORMANCE

Our favourite moment of the day was engaging the ignition. The 430i is debuting a new 2.0-litre BMW TwinPower, Turbo, inline four-cylinder, 16-valve petrol engine that produces 245hp and 400Nm of torque. This setup, coupled with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, means this coupé can surge from 0-100km/h in around six seconds and produce an electronically capped top speed of 250km/h.

To further ensure a safe, smooth and comfortable ride, BMW has included Dynamic Stability Control, featuring Brake Fade Compensation, Startoff Assistant, Brake Drying and Brake Stand-by features with Dynamic Traction Control.

All of these elements, combined with multiple other performanceenhancing components, equate to a near flawless on-road experience, one we can only encourage you to try for yourselves.

For more information or to book a test drive of your own, please call Euro Motors on 1775 0750.

@bmw_euromotorsbh

Out &About

Launch of the new Friday Brunch at Bagatelle Restaurant

Butcher's Board Friday Brunch at Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana

Out &About

Opening of the BodyZone Health & Fitness at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

Vida Friday Brunch at Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain

Positive Mind, Vibes and Life

Miss Ohlala offers some ideas on how to always look on the brighter side of life.

When looking for the meaning of well-being, you find the following description: it’s the state of being comfortable, healthy or happy. This means that it goes beyond physical health. It is grander than the simple act of eating well and exercising. It involves maintaining good mental health, having the right tools to control stress and anxiety and living an everyday life in which you feel safe and which is overall enjoyable. Pursuing a balanced lifestyle is everyone’s goal and not always the most achievable one. The truth is that some days will be better than others. However, seeing the bright side of things, despite sounding like a cliché, will help you endure everyday obstacles. According to the NHS website (www.nhs.uk) there are five steps to improve well-being and mental health:

1. Connect with other people. Be they family members, friends or colleagues. You can even participate in volunteering projects; helping others will give you a sense of belonging and self-worth.

2. Be physically active. It doesn’t mean you have to hit the gym five times a week, but you can walk your dog, participate in a dance group or even challenge yourself and start running.

3. Learn new skills. Acquiring new knowledge boosts your selfconfidence and helps you build a sense of purpose.

4. Give to others. Not only by donating money or volunteering but also by giving attention or complimenting friends and strangers, acknowledging them will change their day and yours.

5. Pay attention to the present moment. Mindfulness can help you enjoy your life and understand yourself. Be here, live now!