Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Issue
Party Bonanza All the Best Gigs in Town
Inside:
Live the Island Dream Amwaj Revisited
Tips to Achieve Super Health
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120
Contents
110
December 2012 • Issue 120
Amwaj Feature
64 Amwaj Islands: Places to Stay,
Places to Eat, Things to Do
68 Yara Beauty Lounge 70 It Just Got Hotter at Chili’s! 72 Twist to the Ultimate Hamburger Experience
People
104 62
18 David Hollywood: Past Tomorrows and Age 50 Dr Pierre: Remove Unwanted Fat for a
Better Figure
Opinion 58
John R Ridley: Resolve to Get Healthier This Year 60 Kelly Armatage: Ending Envy 78 Rehan Ahmed: Home Sweet Home 128 Mohammad Al Rasheed: Human Calendars
Regulars
16 New in Town: Bahrain’s Latest Openings 30 Gadgets: Faisal Ebrahim 79 Society: Out & About
Fashion 20 22 34 36 38 39 40
Officine Panerai Malabar Gold & Diamonds Salsa Dune Geox Men H&M Saks Fifth Avenue
Health & Beauty
40 48 52
Beauty Buzz DURANCE Health Updates
Juicy Pickings 4 7 8 10 103 113 127
Editor’s Letter Readers Letters Star News Not to be Missed Looking for a Home Gastro Horoscopes
Cars
104 Jaguar: Racing to Excellence 106 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee 108 Skoda: Octavia and Fabia
Essential Listings
121 Recommended Restaurants, Nightspots,
Essential Info, Beauty Spots, Sports and Fitness, Clubs and Associations
Cucina Italiana
Jaguar Racing to Excellence
Pet Arabia
2
EditL rabia.net
gs in All the Best Gi
Publishers: Editor in Chief: Editorial: Art Design: Contributors
Dr Mohd. Al Rasheed Eng. Rehan Ahmed Dr Pierre R Clero Faisal Ebrahim Kelly Armatage David Hollywood John Ridley Roberta Trzebinski Amy Warman
Dream Live the IslandRevisited Amwaj Tips to Achieve Super Health
BAHRAIN BD2
PBoanratnyza
Inside:
Hey Everyone,
RO2 QATAR
Issue
T KD2 OMAN
120
QR20 UAE DHS20
at www.FashionA
KSA SR20 KUWAI
Online edition
Cover Credits: ‘Inhouse Design’
Town
Nicholas & Rebecca Cooksey Rebecca Cooksey Pooja Rajpal Kasala, Abeer Parkar Noel De Juan, Dhanraj S. Administration
Nikesh Pola Rose Mary Sueallen Menezeshas Photographer Shareef Panhatt Sales Account Manager Jehan Mohamed Namitha B
Distribution Distribution Executive Mohammed Yousif Muhammed Shareef P Sunaid Kunimmal Regional Sales-Point Distribution Bahrain: Al Hilal Corporation
Tel. +973 1748 0800 UAE: Jashanmals Tel. +971 4341 9757
Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
For Advertising Opportunities: Tel. +973 1782 2368 Email: sales@ArabianMagazines.com Published by:
A Division of C.G. Arabia W.L.L. P.O. Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. Tel. +973 1782 2388, Fax. +973 1772 1722 Email: info@ArabianMagazines.com Website: www.ArabianMagazines.com Ministry of Information approval no. ISDN 99901-01-17-5 © Copyright 2008, C.G. Arabia W.L.L. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Printed at Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej, Bahrain.
Ohhh my golly gosh – can you believe that this is the last issue of the year? We can’t either! Where is the time going, it seems to have speeded up? Anyway we hope the year has looked after you and you’re ready to welcome the new one in? But before we write of the month of December – let’s look at what’s in store for us – more holidays Yes, we have the National Day celebrations to look forward and going by past years – the island lights up as fairy lights adorn buildings across the country and everyone comes together to celebrate Bahrain life through a succession of activities. Then of course there’s Christmas and the New Year to look forward to after the National Day celebrations. So we hope you’ve saved your pennies? Obviously, we know how busy all our readers are so to make your life a little easier – we have compiled a Seef Mall shopping supplement as they seem to be going through quite a bit of change at the moment. It really is worth a visit because there are some fabulous stores which are only located there in Bahrain and a great way to get some really unique gifts. Don’t forget us. With more holidays to look forward to this month the team at Bahrain Confidential have also compiled an updated Amwaj feature as the islands seem to be changing as quickly as time passing. There are lots of new openings from restaurants through to spas – so make sure you catch up on what’s new over there. As usual there is a lot to read in this issue. But we have gone a little health crazy as Dr Pierre Cleo and John Ridley share their wisdom on how to achieve super health. That would be a great start to the New Year! Obviously with it being the festive season we haven’t forgotten those glorious little people we call brats! So check out the fashion shoot by Saks Fifth Avenue – any kid who shops there is going to be one of the best dressed kids on the block. Any way why waste any more time? Make yourself a nice cup of tea and treat yourself to a piece of Yule log and snuggle up and read Bahrain Confidential. We wish you all a Happy and lucky New Year!
The Confidential Team
Al Aali Shopping Complex Bahrain +973 1700 3149
www.albertaferretti.com
Bahrain City Centre +973 1717 8031 karenmillen.com
Readers’ Letters
Dear Editor ... Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Issue
Party Bonanza
Inside:
Live the Island Dream Amwaj Revisited Tips to Achieve Super Health
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All the Best Gigs in Town
Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!
Romantic Duo
A Colourful Life
119 Issue
Style Drive in
Maserati
Hot
The
Fashion
Out & About
Essential
Guide to Going Out
Tips
Great
for Looking
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118 Issue
Autumn Think Pink
Fashion Special
35 Art Winter is Finally Coming
Art Space
Attention Fashion/Society
Years On The History of BMW
Collectors! Cars
Christie’s is Having a Sale!
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Many thanks to all of you who wrote in last month and apologies if your letter isn’t printed but we get so many. Keep us informed and keep us in check by sending comments to info@ArabianMagazines.com Tied to Technology
It was interesting to read John Ridley’s article on humans’ over-dependence and obsession with technology. Bus stops, queues, and parks; remember those days when we would usually just chat up with the person standing closest to us, ask them how they’re doing, talk about the weather, or the cute flip flops they’re wearing? It’s a phenomenon we all are well-aware of, yet we continue to dig deeper into the world of technology. Gadgets have made life easy and organized, but at the same time we delve into isolation at times and places where we used to resort to normal human communication. Gadgets are an addiction and should be taken in moderation. Sami Hey Sami, I know what you’re saying. I can’t go a minute without my BlackBerry. It’s sad really, I go home after a long day at work but I’m still frantically checking my phone to see if there are any updates on pending projects, meetings etc. Even as I sit down for a nice relaxing dinner, I’m unable to keep my mind off work. I think it’s best we switch off our phones/ gadgets once we’re on our own free time.
Effortless Extensions
Thanks for introducing me to Effortless Extensions. With the hard tap water here, it was getting really difficult for me to keep my hair in good shape especially since I work full-time and can’t dedicate too much time to hair maintenance. I got a really short haircut to make life easy, and then Effortless Extensions came along and made it even easier. I take good care of my short hair now and leave the styling up to my new extensions. Monica, Manama
C’est
Believe me, I use extensions and I end up confusing my co-workers with a changed hairdo every now and then. I totally understand Autumn the value of wanting to keep your real hair in Fashion good shape and still be able to style and flaunt Special new looks. Well, good luck with your new extensions and happy styling! Here’s a tip for you, after shampooing, it’s always best to rinse your hair and scalp a final time with bottled mineral water. Try it!
C’est
Greening Your Home ... and School and Office
Rehan Ahmed is quite right that greening our homes doesn’t require advanced knowledge. We simply have to push ourselves a little and think of ways to reduce waste. Separating organic and non-organic trash is the easiest place to start. Especially kids can contribute to this simple act and help by disposing paper and plastic items into an allocated recycling box. All offices and schools should practice recycling and promote it through different forms of media, e.g. notice posters, newsletters. Abdul Kadir, Juffair No doubt, it’s crucial to teach recycling to the young ones and also some grown-ups who don’t understand the importance of it! We’re proud to have a recycling bin here in the office and urge the staff to use it. We also use old newspapers as table mats in our lunch room!
Emotional Elevation
Kelly states that our emotional experience is dictated by the thoughts we’re thinking and that we can control this regardless of what is happening around us. I’ve been through some rough stuff in the past and I believe the only reason I made it through was because I was able to hold myself by training my mind. I would tell myself that sometimes things just have to unwind on their own, be it good or bad. I noticed that the less I care and obsess over a certain issue, the more it’s likely to return back to normal. Stephanie Hmm, I’ve tried and tested that method. Definitely a pass too! Like Kelly mentioned, we have to surrender fear and move towards acceptance and happiness. There will always be negative things going on around us; the way we react to those situations will determine the outcome. A negative reaction will only create more negativity.
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 7
Gossip
News
Check out what’s happening in the celebrity world ...
The Barack Obama family
About 67 Million Viewers Tune in for US Election
Nearly 66.8 million people watched election returns on broadcast and cable networks last month according to Neilson Co. President Obama’s re-election was viewed by many but the figure didn’t pass the record high coverage four years ago when 71.5 million viewers tuned in to witness the first African-American president win.
George Lucas to Donate Sale Proceeds from Lucasfilm to Education
George Lucas will be donating a portion of his four billion US dollar sale of Lucasfilm to Disney towards supporting education. He is currently the chairman of Edutopia, part of George Lucas Educational Foundation. The 68-year-old filmmaker has stated that he’s starting a new chapter in life and wants to dedicate more time and resources to philanthropy. He believes promoting education is a priority because it’s a key factor for the survival of the human race. Lucas has also signed the Warren Buffet and Bill Gates Giving Pledge, whereby one’s committed to giving a majority of their wealth to philanthropic causes and charitable organizations either during their lifetime or after their death. George Lucas
Celebrity Tweets
John Travolta and Kirstie Alley
Travolta, Kirstie Alley’s “Greatest Love”
“Look Who’s Talking” lead actress, Kirstie Alley claims she fell in love with co-star John Travolta during the making of the 1989 hit movie. She also denied rumours of Travolta being gay. Kirstie, 61, said she’s fell in love with both Travolta and actor Patrick Swayze two decades ago. She writes about her relationship with Swyaze in her new book, “The Art of Men,” sharing her love life with readers and talking about how they fell in love while filming the 1985 Civil War TV miniseries “North and South.” Kirstie has been married twice, with her second marriage to actor Parker Stevenson ending in 1997.
Conan O Brien
Selena Gomez
Please honour Malala Yousafzai by spreading her message of children’s right to an education. #StandWithMalala
Stephen Colbert
I’ve taken a long vacation ... All I do is say funny things ... And I’m thinking of raising my own salary ... What am I a Senator?
Tom Hanks Defrauded by Insurance Broker
An insurance broker from South California has pleaded not guilty to allegedly overcharging Tom Hanks and other victims a sum of USD800,000 in insurance premiums. Jerry B Goldman was released from federal custody on a bond of USD25,000. The allegation claims that Goldman overcharged four people, including Hanks between 1998 and 2011 by providing false information and documents. He would send premiums to insurance companies and profit from the overcharged amount he received from clients. When the clients asked the broker for their insurance policies, Goldman would provide altered copies that didn’t mention the real premium charge. The case will go on trial this month.
Dane Cook
At the end of Obama’s speech he should’ve ripped open his shirt wearing the Superman “S” & flown up over the crowd.
8 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West
DON’T TELL ME WHO WON THE ELECTION. I’ve got it Tivoed. #NoSpoilers
Kim Flaunts Ring with Kanye West’s Initials!
Tom Hanks
Kim Kardashian was spotted wearing a ring with initials KW, although not on her ring finger and thus denying rumours of an engagement. So let’s all just assume it’s a simple, golden token of love and not jump to conclusions!
What’s On
Missed Not To Be
For more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 112 - 120
Till 31st Dec
5th-10th Dec Faulty Towers Dining Experience Join Basil, Sybil and Manuel on their first visit to Bahrain for the international sell-out dinner comedy show at InterContinental Regency Bahrain. Open every night for dinner at 7.30pm, with additional lunch sittings at 1pm on Friday 7th and Saturday 8th December. Tickets are priced at BD35 for dinner and BD30 for lunch. For bookings, email: sales@punchlineme.com
6th Dec Poetry Over Music Dec Edition
A night of spoken word, live dinging and DJ at Tabu, Panorama Hotel, Juffair from 8pm to midnight. Dress code: smart casual. BD2 fee. Dinner, full bar and sheesha on request. For registration, Email: poetryovermusic_ bahrain@hotmail.com
Winter Wonderland at Bahrain City Centre Weekly children’s activities and the chance for shoppers to win BD5,000 worth of sparkling diamonds. Bahrain City Centre’s Central Galleria will be transformed into a magical winter village display suitable for children and families. A giant walk-through Gingerbread House will be displayed in front of Saks Fifth Avenue atrium, providing a number of children activities including colouring and drawing sessions on weekends and special cookie-decorating workshops during the month of December between 3 to 6pm on Fridays only, for entry fee of BD2. For more information on Winter Wonderland at Bahrain City Centre, please visit: www.facebook.com/BahrainCityCentre and http://twitter.com/#!/BahrainCityCtr
Poetry Over Music Dec Edition
Till 15th Dec Market338
Inspired by traditional souqs, Market338 is a venue for local, regional, and international designers presenting outstanding modern works, live music performances, designer talks and workshops that reflect on current topics of contemporary design. Organised by Al Riwaq Art Space, the venue is at Osama Bin Zaid Avenue, Al `Adliyah. Thu to Fri, 5pm to 11pm. Saturdays 11am to 5pm. Sun to Wed, 5pm to 9pm. For more information, Tel. +973 1771 7441 or Email: info@alriwaqartspace.com
7th Dec Bud Music Live presents:
Macy Gray Live in Bahrain
Part of Battle of the Bands 2012 final, Macy Gray will be performing live in Bahrain at the Coral Bay. Doors open at 4pm, BD10 for tickets (includes a free drink). Tickets available at: BMMI shops (Mina Salman), Great Deli Cafe at Alosra Supermarket (Saar, Amwaj), JJ’s Irish Restaurant, Camelot Restaurant, Coral Bay and Virgin Mega Stores.
6th Dec Cher & Madonna Tribute
UK’s leading Cher and Madonna impersonator Catherine Parry will present a highly professional sound & look-a-like show. DJ Dave Hayes & The Noise Band will warm up the night before Catherine takes the stage. Entry fee BD4. For more info and table booking call Tel. +973 3932 9083.
10 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
8th Dec A Trip to the Zoo at Build A Bear Workshop - Bahrain City Centre
Join Build A Bear Workshop, MIB, and Once Upon A Story Time for A trip to the Zoo at Build A Bear Workshop- Bahrain City Centre. Age Group: 18 month up to five years. BD6 (Includes a teddy bear of your choice) From 11.30am to 12.30pm.
What’s On
Missed Not To Be
For more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 112 - 120
Carol Singing and the Lighting of the Tree 5th: Sofitel
Christmas tree lighting, caroling and much more. 6pm
6th: K Hotel
Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Choir: Time: 6.30pm to 8pm
6th: Mövenpick
13th Dec Showtime’s Comedian Starring David
Golshan & The Guys Live in Bahrain. All the way from LOS ANGELES, the Comedy Central, Laugh Factory & Showtime’s Star David Golshan will give fans an unforgettable night full of Laughter, sarcasm & fun! More comedians to be announced. Tickets: Platinum BD30, Gold BD75, Silver BD10. For more information Tel. +973 3312 6616 / BBM: 290EA78D. Email: info@luxuryeventsme.com
10th Dec Musical Evening from Jerusalem
A musical evening presented by Nehawnd Band at the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre, Muharraq at 8pm. For more information visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org
14th Dec Lumina-Winter Glow Party
Views International School
Enjoy activities such as football, taekwondo and team games. Week 1 runs from Sat 15th Dec to Thurs 20th, Week 2 runs from Sat 22nd Dec to Thurs 27th Dec. BD120 per child, aged three to twelve years. For more information call Tel. +973 1769 2424 / +973 3300 1261.
10th: Elite Hotel
Carol Singing and lighting of the Christmas tree in the Lobby
13th: Gulf Hotel
Lighting of the Christmas tree, Special entertainment for kids and Glühwein! 6pm.
19th-24th: Crowne Plaza
With DJ Ali - On Consol playing chartbusting music, Lumina is calling all party lovers to be at the best place to have an after party, the Ramee Palace Hotel. Check out their Events Facebook page for more information.
Get treated to freshly baked cookies and Mule wine every day while you enjoy the choirs’ harmonious rendition of Christmas music. 6.30pm daily.
Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win
16th Dec Coral Bay presents: 15th Dec20th Dec Life-Fit Winter Camp at Riffa
Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in the lobby, at 6.30pm. Santa’s waiting for you; contact him on his email: hotel.bahrain.fb@moevenpick.com
Hed Kandi
Bahrain’s National Day at Coral Bay will be celebrated with Hed Kandi, TOP resident DJ Andy Norman accompanied with the amazing saxophonist, The Lovely Laura. Hed Kandi tickets will be available at Coral Bay, JJ’s & Camelot for BD10 general admission. For information and tables booking call Tel. +973 1731 2700 / 33745547. At the time of press National Day Events hadn’t been received.
Chocolate Indulgence Maya La Chocolaterie is a unique chocolate bar concept focused on the pure delicacy and passion of serving exquisite chocolate products. The artisan chocolates are freshly produced locally using the finest ingredients, making it the first premium Bahraini chocolate. Each chocolate mold, praline or truffle are a combination of the finest cocoas, nuts, vanilla, that promise to melt in your mouth to create a true love story. Maya La Chocolaterie was conceptualized and introduced by The Living Concepts Bahrain with the aim of creating an international brand that serves the finest chocolates all produced in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Win a big and delicious chocolate hamper this Christmas from Maya la Chocolaterie by answering this question! Where are the branches of Maya la Chocolaterie in Bahrain? Email your answer to competition@ArabianMagazines.com and please include age, nationality, sex and favourite section in the magazine (for internal use only).
Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win
12 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Events
This Month At The
Royal Golf Club Check out the latest events lined up for December.
one, and receive a voucher for a FREE round of golf on the Royal Golf Club’s 9 hole Wee Monty par 3 course. There are six packages to choose from ranging from beginners to experienced golfers wishing Festive tuition packages to improve a specific aspect of their game. For further information, call Tel. +973 1775 0777.
December Fitness-a-Thon
Fitness-a-Thon fun in the Royal Country Club gardens
December Sporting Events Round 1 of National Day Tournament
16th December: Top players go through to final round on 17th December. From 7.30am. Open to Members, Guests, Bahrain Golf Club.
Get Set for a TaylorMade White Christmas
Monty’s, the Royal Golf Club’s golf and lifestyle shop is holding a special TaylorMade promotion throughout December - spend just BD2 on a prize draw raffle ticket for your chance to win a fantastic set of TaylorMade RocketBallz irons. Additional prizes include TaylorMade putters, golf bags and golf balls. Enjoy a ten per cent discount on all Polo Ralph Lauren clothing, available only while stocks last. A free festive gift wrapping service is available all month.
King Hamad Trophy
19th to 22nd December: Top national team players from around the GCC. Course closed but spectators are welcome. Invited guests only.
Christmas Cracker Competition 25th December: Better ball event. 7.30am shotgun. Open to all.
Hogmanay Hack
31st December: Four ball better ball event. 7.30am shotgun. Open to members and guests.
Wee Monty Family Day
Every Saturday. Only BD15 per adult, kids play free! Inclusive of green fee and hire clubs. Tee times from 10am to 2pm. Open to all.
14 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Take a chance on winning TaylorMade goodies in Monty’s
Free Golf with Christmas Tuition Invest in a golf tuition package this December, whether it’s for yourself or as a gift for a loved
Join the Royal Country Club team for the highly popular Fitness-a-Thon event which takes place on Saturday 8th December. Everyone is welcome to participate in 80 minutes of non-stop exercise, taking in circuit training, abs workout, spinning and pilates – all done outside in the beautifully landscaped country club gardens. Limited places are available and must be booked in advance by calling Tel. +973 1775 1264. The monthly Fitness-a-Thon will take place on the second Saturday of each month right through until March. Free for Royal Country Club Members. BD3 for Riffa Views residents & Royal Golf Club Members. Visitors BD4.
Christmas Dining in Links
Bookings for Festive Dining With unrivalled scenic views, superb customer service and exceptional food and beverage offerings, the Royal Golf Club is one of Bahrain’s most unique venues for private festive parties. Enjoy a range of private dining options with complimentary room hire and thoughtfullydesigned festive menus which start from BD16 per head plus 15 per cent service charge. Additional services can also be arranged such as live music, decorations, transport for guests and more. On Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, bring the family along to Links for the award-winning Carvery Feasts. Experience live cooking stations, a selection of succulent roasts with all the traditional trimmings and a wide range of desserts for BD20 net for members, BD23 net for non members and BD12 net for children aged four to twelve years. To book your Christmas party or reserve your table for Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, call the Royal Golf Club on +973 1775 0777.
Find us on
Fabulous Festive Feasts Create unrivalled memories with your family and friends this Christmas at the Royal Golf Club. Join us in Links for our spectacular Christmas Day and New Year’s Day carvery buffets - traditional roasts with all the trimmings, exciting live cooking stations and an irresistible selection of desserts. Just sit back, relax and savour the mouth-watering selection of fabulous food on offer. Santa will be joining in the fun too on Christmas Day with gifts for all the little ones. Prices inclusive of welcome beverage: BD 20 net per person for club members BD 23 net per person for visitors BD 12 net for children aged 4 - 12 years including selected soft drinks Buffets available between 12.00 noon and 4.00pm on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
The Royal Golf Club website is available to you 24/7 all year round. Keep up to date with everything going on at the Club, view our latest offers and news, reserve a table in any of our restaurants or book your next tee time.
Call +973 17 751262 today to reserve your table.
www.theroyalgolfclub.com
New In Town Junaid for Perfumes in the News
As a gesture of appreciation, Junaid for Perfumes recently conducted a get together for members of Al Noor Charity Welfare to honor them for their immense dedication towards the upliftment of the underprivileged in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The visit was graced by Shaikha Lamya bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, the President of Al Noor Society, Shaikha Lulwa bint Khalifa bin Ali Al Khalifa, the Honorary President and the members of the society who were given a tour of ‘Junaid for Perfumes’ factory followed by a presentation on how perfumes are created. The visitors were presented with special gifts at the end of the tour. In other news, Junaid for Perfumes also received an overwhelming response at their recent participation at the Autumn Perfume Exhibition in Kuwait where they presented a collection of their latest products and accessories. Founded in 1910, this Bahrain-based perfumery operates with more than 120 outlets worldwide.
Maki
Maki Bahrain Restaurant is an iconic culinary and entertainment haven for many Japanese fusion cuisine lovers. The restaurant has introduced new corporate menus for companies and groups of more than 10 people. From starters, soups to desserts, Maki has a variety of Japanese delicacies available on the menu. For booking and information Tel. +973 1752 2733.
HSBC Bahrain and Gulf Air Joint Promotion
Al Noor Charity Welfare committee members
New In
Town Bahrain Confidential fill you in
on the who, what, why, when and where in Bahrain!
HSBC and Gulf Air have recently renewed their agreement to provide their mutual customers with an enhanced, value added travel experience through a joint promotion. Valid until 30th April 2013, the joint promotion entitles all HSBC Credit Cardholders a 15 per cent discount on Gulf Air Falcon Gold class (Business Class) and a 10 per cent discount on Economy Class when they book flights through Gulf Air’s official website www.gulfair.com
Let’s Play Eye Spy
Optica’s inviting you to a game of “Eye Spy”, giving you the chance to actually call people out and win some pretty amazing prizes while doing it. All you have to do is print out the Eye Spy tag off Optica’s Facebook page or grab a flyer from one of their stores, and place it in situations where someone could really do with an eye test. Then take a picture, and share it on Optica’s Facebook page for a few laughs. For all you know, you could be setting your sights on a brand new iPad3, the grand prize. All participants also get a free eye test, and there are three BD50 vouchers up for grabs every week for the most ‘liked’ entries, as well as a pair of sunglasses every week for Optica’s favourite entry. For more information go to: www.facebook.com/OpticaME
New Services Offered by FELDA CUT & STYLE BBK Al Wajaha Account
Specifically designed for connoisseurs of excellence, the Al Wajaha Account is a unique banking service that offers unparalleled financial, travel and lifestyle privileges that redefine personalised service and luxurious living. A first in Bahrain, Al Wajaha comes with the Visa Infinite debit card. Al Wajaha Account holders can expect a first class priority treatment and personalized benefits such as financial advice from their very own relationship manager, the Priority Pass, which allows immediate access to over 600 airport business lounges around the world, Concierge services, as well as emergency services and special dining and lifestyle services from Visa. For more information Tel. +973 1720 7770 or visit www.bbkonline.com
16 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
• Body massage • Nail art & nail acrylics • Facial care & treatment (exclusively using Clarins Facial Care products) • Eye lash extensions • Make-up (for all occasions)
All services are handled by Felda’s professional staff; Anna – a certified masseuse, beauty and spa therapist and nail technician; and Marivic – a trained junior hair stylist and also a beauty and spa therapist. Both graduated from prominent beauty institutions in the Philippines and continuously enhance their skills with trainings and other informative programs on health and beauty in Bahrain, recently, the CLARINS Face & Body Care. While Lyn, a qualified beauty specialist and make-up artist, achieved her qualifications from Perth College of Beauty Therapy in Australia. Felda Cut & Style is located at Delmon Hotel in Manama, Tel. +973 1722 4077, +973 3914 8203 or email: felda@mail.com
Poetry
David Hollywood
T
hese two short poems by David Hollywood are melancholy musings upon the condition of ‘age’ at the end of a lifetime, combined with a reflection on ‘time’ and the occasions when we had looked forward to events with great enthusiasm, and as they arrived we experienced and lived them with wonderful joy, but which were inevitably transient
and predestined to simply become ephemeral and lovely memories, never to occur again. With the departure of 2012 upon us, they may parallel or harmonise with some of our thoughts about the past twelve months, and elucidate the fleeting certainty of our time on this planet. As our life and reputation has been cast by what we made of it so also shall the impermanence of our embers shortly be cast into eternity, and hardly ever to be remembered.
Age
What seasons doth a life gone past? As ventures, do they show! A body aged and wiseth, cast, Into an embers glow.
18 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
David Hollywood
Past Tomorrows Past tomorrows, come and stay, Timed pressed presents, gifts today, Passing backwards, thoughts that say, Gentle times, now gone a way.
To contact the artist, Tel. +973 3920 7624 or email: thewineappreciationsociety@gmail.com or davidhollywood23@hotmail.com
www. oxygen.com Seef Mall, Gate No 6, Opp. Zara P.O. Box 21590 Tel. +973 1700 5030
Sheer Luxury
Officine Panerai Bespoke Elegance If a watch maketh a man. Who is the Panerai Man? A Panerai Man defines himself. He is a leader, a winner, a creator. He is a connoisseur with a passion for marine life. He prefers to wear an elegant watch which speaks volumes. The Panerai Man is all masculine and glorifies the journey of research and knowledge that goes into making this masterpiece. He applauds the precision and innovation which made Panerai the preferred choice of Italian Navy! He is a keen observer of history and heritage and depends on a watch which he can trust implicitly.
LUMINOR MARINA - 44 MM
BD2,111.2
Milvin George Managing Director, Officine Panerai
BD13,761 LUMINOR 1950 10 DAYS GMT ORO ROSA – 44 MM
Officine Panerai is available in Moda Mall, Tel. +973 1753 5140.
20 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Sheer Luxury Ethnix - Hand Crafted Designer Jewellery
Handcrafted designer jewellery is one of the most exquisite brands in Malabar Gold & Diamonds. The poise of traditional craftsmanship and intricate designs is visible in every piece, with meticulousness and graceful enamel work making them the most cherished pieces of artistic expression. The unparalleled craftsmanship and the hard work of the designers make Ethnix jewellery something to treasure forever.
Precia - Precious Gem Jewellery
Features an assortment of stunning designs, incorporating precious gems like ruby, emerald, yellow sapphire and blue sapphire. Crafted in 22K gold, the vast collection of necklaces, bangles, earrings and rings are sure to enthral everyone. The vibrant colours, their shimmer, the fires that shine from within each gem, all of these just add to the unique magnetism of these precious stones.
Mine - Diamonds Unlimited
Diamonds Unlimited is a unique collection of jewellery showcasing the latest and world class diamond jewellery. Each ornament is unique in its own way from the perfectly cut certified diamonds to the magnificent craftsmanship. From fashion jewellery to authentic traditional jewellery or be it small diamonds to solitaires, Mine owes its magical attraction to pure gold and platinum and certified VVS-EF quality diamonds.
All That Glitters Is Gold! Malabar Gold & Diamonds.
Price available upon Request.
22 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Malabar Gold & Diamonds is located at Gold City, Manama, Tel. +973 1720 8810.
Art Space
Glass
Wonders Handmade glass creations, ideal gifts for the festive season.
I
t’s that time of year again: the run up to Christmas and the New Year. If we haven’t already done it we’ll soon start scurrying around in search of the perfect Christmas and New Year gifts for our loved ones! We at Bahrain Confidential decided to make it easy for our favourite readers! Check out these adorable glass paintings by the young artist, Hussain Ali, from Bahrain, the perfect and oh-socute gifts for the holiday season! We have also interviewed him to get a peek into what inspires him and his creations.
24 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Have you always known you wanted to be an artist? Was there a particular moment when you knew this was what you wanted to do? Actually no, I like drawing & painting but I never thought I will be an artist. Even the glass painting idea came to my mind by chance. I never planned to do glass painting. Tell us about yourself? Has art always been a part of your growing up years? I’m a 24 years old Bahraini. My childhood was like any other kid; fond of coloring and drawing. Although I was more attached to reading than drawing. My family encouraged me to do these kind of activities and supported me all along.
“I like to fill in the empty spaces with colours.”
Art Space “I make glasses with the popular characters. I also customize them according to customer’s preference.”
into these two. It sometimes depends on the piece of glass that I am working on and what I think it should be drawn on it. Then there are festive seasons, like New Year, Christmas, Eid or Valentine’s Day, for which I make customised glasses.
Are you currently based in Bahrain? Yes, I am!
Have you always worked with glass? Do you use other medium/media? Currently I only work with glass. You might find this weird but I like the coloring process more than the drawing itself. I like to fill in the empty spaces with colors. And this is what I love in glass painting.
Did you study art formally? Tell us about your education/training? No I didn’t. I am a fresh graduate from University of Bahrain. My major is Banking and Finance.
What exhibitions, shows have you staged or been part of? I have participated in some exhibitions or bazaars where I can show and sell my work most of them were in Amwaj Island.
What do you remember as your first work of art? If you mean glass art, then I started only in April 2011. It came to my mind as an idea, “Why shouldn’t I mix cartoon character with glass paintings?”. So I kept trying until I became good at it. Because I didn’t study glass painting or practised it before, it’s all self study. Furthermore I have loved colouring as a kid and still do.
Do you customise glass paintings? I make glasses with the popular characters. I also customize them according to customer’s preference (name, nickname, logo, slogan, etc.)
How was it growing up, is your family from an artistic background? As I said, my family always encouraged me to pursue the things I love. They supported me to start this business. As a matter of fact, they were my first customers. In my family, there is no professional artist. However we all have some kind of passion toward fine art. How would you describe your art? This is a difficult question! I would say, I paint cute and unique glassware for a unique person. A cool drawing hand-painted on a glass. What themes are you exploring in your art? The general idea is about cartoon characters or some cute drawings painted on the glass but sometimes I like to do some paintings that are not categorized
Order through the Facebook page: “Carino & Unico Glass Paintings” (Cute and Unique). Tel. +973 3411 4373. Email: carino_unico@hotmail.com @Instagram - Carino & Unico Hussain Ali
“My family always encouraged me to pursue the things I love.”
Price starting BD5 onwards, depending on size. December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 25
Bahrain
Letter From Bahrain Delectable Dates!
John Ridley examines the significance of dates - a magnificent fruit, which holds a special place in the hearts of all people in the Middle East.
F
rom the earliest of times, the date palm, believed to have originated on the banks of the Nile and Euphrates Rivers, has been considered a symbol of hospitality, and is widely praised by poets across the region as an emblem of a traditional and proud culture. Rich in minerals and vitamins and high in glucose and fructose, dates are an excellent source of nutrition, often eaten fresh they are considered an essential part of the diet for the Bedouin traveller in the desert or mountains of Arabia. Across the Arabian Gulf, hospitality is demonstrated by offering guests coffee, made with equal parts of lightly roasted coffee beans and cardamom, accompanied with a variety of beautifully presented fresh dates. Dates are also used in cooking, they can be chopped and used in sweets, cakes, biscuits and chocolates and other dessert dishes; they are even used in savoury dishes such as pickles and vinegar. Like all fruit, dates are a seasonal product and therefore the supply can be limited. The fruit freezes well, once defrosted they can be enjoyed throughout the year as could processed and dried dates. The fruit grows in four stages, known across the world by the Arabic terms. The “Kimri” or first stage is the appearance of a small green inedible fruit, one month after pollination. By the “Khalal” stage, the fruit is mature and turns yellow or red in colour. The fruit is now edible, and very popular in the Arabian Gulf. It has a mild astringent flavour that does not appeal to the western pallet and so is
rarely found outside the Middle East. The third, or “Rutab”, stage reveals a half-brown and half-yellow or red fruit with a high sucrose content which has lost the astringent flavour. The final stage of fruit maturation, 200 days after pollination, is known as “Tamr”, by now the fruit is the universally recognised brown coloured date. Most supermarkets will stock several varieties, whilst they’re all wonderful to snack on, they all have very different characteristics: Medjool are the larger dates often seen in plastic packages. They’re incredibly soft and sweet, wonderful for stuffings or using in drinks and stews. They are very moist and as such, not the best for baking.
John R Ridley
mats, screens, baskets, brooms and hats. The tree also has a strong religious importance; in the holy Qur’an the palm tree is referred to as the “blessed tree”, the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to break their fast at sunset during the month of Ramadan with dates and water. When the Prophet built his first mosque in Madinah, the pillars were constructed from the trunks of the palm trees and the roof was woven from palm fronds. Another important religious link to dates is the Qur’anic story of the Virgin Mary giving birth to Jesus; she heard a voice telling her: “Shake the trunk of the palm tree towards thee - it will drop fresh, ripe dates upon thee. Eat, then and drink, and let thine eye be gladdened” (Qur’an 19:25-26). Today, dates are still eaten to ease childbirth, ward off the symptoms of chestiness and other wintery ailments and used medicinally to counteract feelings of discontent and lack of creative fulfilment. The date palm and it’s fruit, so revered and important to people across the Arabian Gulf is certain to remain entwined in the lives of the Arabian people, culture and religion for centuries to come
“Medjool are the larger dates often seen in plastic packages.” Deglet Noor boast a deep amber colour and a chewier and much drier texture than Medjool, they keep a little longer and are a good all-purpose fruit. Thoory are dry with very light brown colour. They are much harder than Medjool and have a distinctly nutty flavour. Halawi - the Arabic term for sweet - are slightly smaller and have a caramel flavour that makes them a perfect accompaniment to cheeses and savoury dishes. For the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula, the date palm tree is more than a source of highly nutritious food. Known as “the tree of life” all parts of the palm tree are put to use; the wide branches and leaves provided shade from the heat of the strong desert sun, or were used for making huts,
“In the holy Qur’an the palm tree is referred to as the “blessed tree”.”
26 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Taken from “Gluten free cooking from the Arabian Gulf” by Naomi Devlin and John Ridley, due to be published in Bahrain Spring 2013. John Ridley, a Bahrain based journalist, has lived and worked in the Middle East for more than thirty years. The right words, the right copy, the right impact - John can be contacted at john@johnridley.nu
VIVA BAHRAIN
2012 INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Along this year, VIVA Bahrain introduced a number of FIRSTS positioning it as the most innovative telecom provider in the Kingdom. Let’s take a glimpse at VIVA’s most innovative products and value-added services introduced to enrich the lives of its customers in an increasingly connected world.
January Huawei MediaPad Bundled with a VIVA broadband 5 plan, an Android 3.2 Honeycomb tablet with a 5-mega pixel camera, Huawei MediaPad was launched exclusively by VIVA with free data usage for the first two months at the fastest speeds.
February International prepaid credit transfer in Bahrain Addition of twelve countries to enable prepaid customers to conveniently transfer credit to their families and friends overseas via SMS.
Exclusive BlackBerry application store Free access to a full-fledge app store offering BlackBerry users free and paid applications across 13 categories including games, business, productivity, fitness, news, travel, books and much more.
March
Bahrain’s biggest broadband offer VIVA’s pre-paid and post-paid customers benefitted from Bahrain’s biggest broadband offer giving free data allowance.
enjoy the new generation of Androids along with new smart plans and free bundled minutes.
One year of free dedicated internet service with 50% extra speed and data usage for the business sector.
Live Indian Premier League action on VIVA TV
New range of sleek, fast & easyto-use smartphones with an array of smartphone plans including Windows-Phone Nokia Lumia 800, introduced by VIVA for the first time in Bahrain in addition to the Nokia N9 & Blackberry 3G Curve 9360.
Live action updates on cricket from the Indian Premier League (IPL) which was telecast through CricOne Channel on VIVA TV.
May
Handset replacement New exclusive Platinum Plan service
First to offer state-ofthe-art this smartphone in Bahrain.
New range of smartphone devices coupled with data and voice plans priced attractively, offering business customers the utmost connectivity, flexibility and value for money.
New range of Google Galaxy Phone Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) service Smartphones Another highly anticipated device launched from VIVA for its customers to
First telecom operator in the Kingdom to offer high discounts to business users on major international destinations.
Samsung Galaxy S III launch
A convenient alternative to shops and self-service machines for customers to pay their bills, the direct debit service from VIVA enables postpaid customers to settle their bills automatically from their bank accounts every month.
Business data packages for corporate users
April
Great savings on international calls for business users
A unique service for customers to return and exchange faulty handsets within a set time period. Applicable to all mobile phones purchased at any VIVA outlets.
Direct debit service for bill payments
Including free unlimited calls and SMS from VIVA to VIVA, unlimited internet access and up to 90% discount on international calls as well as a special platinum number worth BD 500.
June
New range of ‘Business Mobility’ services Offering a range of voice, data and broadband packages with unlimited calls to all VIVA numbers all day, every day, on all plans.
July
International credit transfer service expanded Twelve countries added to VIVA’s successful international credit transfer service.
August
Live football action from EPL on VIVA’s Mobile TV service Live football action straight from the English Premier League on VIVA’s Mobile TV service.
Unlimited calls and SMS with the latest add-ons
New range of stateof-the-art tablets with flexible plans iPad, Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1” and Galaxy Tab 2 launched in the most convenient packages and data bundles with flexible fee plans.
New add-ons enabling users to make unlimited calls and SMS from VIVA to VIVA for a small monthly fee.
September First to introduce Nano SIM for iPhone 5
First to offer the new generation of SIM cards, the Nano SIM, which is 40% smaller than it’s predecessor and is suited for the latest version of smartphones including the iPhone 5.
October Samsung GALAXY Note II with unrivalled device plans One of the year’s most coveted handsets, VIVA launched Samsung GALAXY Note II with an array of flexible and convenient data plans.
Live broadcast of ICC T20 World cup Live action from the pitch, telecast through CricOne TV Channel on VIVA Mobile TV service.
November
VIVA top-ranked in social media leadership VIVA Bahrain was ranked 1st amongst all telecom providers in Bahrain’s top brands listing on Facebook leadership by Social Bakers, a global social media and digital analytics company. VIVA recorded a 700% increase in the number of Facebook likes over a period of 2 years, reaching an outstanding 44,340 likes and over 11,839 followers on Twitter.
VIVA Manchester United membership card
VIVA Pass for customers on Hajj pilgrimage
One-of-its-kind ‘VIVA Manchester United Membership Card’, loaded with fantastic benefits for fans including attending live matches at Old Trafford, meeting the team and Sir Alex Ferguson, and many more exclusive privileges to be part of one of the greatest football clubs in the world.
Keeping customers stay connected with family and friends during their Hajj pilgrimage with VIVA Pass – KSA and unlimited data roaming add-ons.
Technology
Asus Padfone 2
The PadFone 2 is an Android based Smartphone with a 4.7 inch HD Super IPS+ display with scratch resistant Corning Fit Glass that delivers 550 units of brightness that is visible even when used outdoors. On the inside is a 1.5GHz quad core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor, 2GB of RAM and an Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich Operating System. The PadFone 2’s clicker can capture up to 100 shots at six shots per second and it can also shoot 1080p videos in High Definition. The starting price is BD230.
GoPro Hero3 Camera
GoPro, a popular brand for digital cameras that are small and durable enough to withstand the harsh outdoors, especially for action photographers. The Hero3 is 20mm thick without its plastic case. The Hero3’s Black Edition, carrying a 12MP shooter, has all the power of cinematic models with a max of 4K resolution. It’s priced at BD151.
Gadgets
Rule!
iTechbahrain.com’s Faisal Ebrahim gives us the lowdown on the latest tech news and gadgets to hit the market.
Beats Pill Speakers
The Beats Pill portable speaker can easily fit inside your pocket. It features NFC, Bluetooth 2.1, and various ports such as micro-USB input, 3.5mm input for Bluetooth-free music playing, and 3.5 output for audio to audio music sending. With colors such as black, white, and red, the cylindrical-shaped speaker can also act as a speakerphone with its on-board mic at the front. Now up for grabs at BD75.
Microsoft Surface RT Tablet
Beats by Dre Executive Headphones
Beats Executive headphones are a premium gadget that blocks out the outside world. The device has two triple-A battery powered microphones integrated into its design that adjust a noise cancelling feature according to the wearer’s environment. The headsets are now available for BD115.
30 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Unique VaporMg casing delivers a high-quality fit and finish that’s ultralight and durable. Integrated Kickstand enables hands-free entertainment. Touch Cover clicks in to Surface and offers a slim, spill-resistant keyboard for typing. Surface with Windows RT features a full-size USB port, microSD card slot, and HD video out port. The entry level Surface RT Tablet comes with 32GB of storage and retails for BD190, the 32GB Surface with the Touch Cover sells for BD227, and the third option, a 64GB Surface Tablet with Touch Cover is priced at BD265.
vee-vuh Latin for ‘positive cheer’, VIVA is about verve and charisma. It’s an organisation that believes in making things happen, an innovator. We put this to practice by offering innovative and cost effective business solutions that encompass Internet, data connectivity and mobility. It’s our way of providing innovations that empower businesses to realise their potential.
Advertorial
Step Up To Premium Yamaha Touch & Tone complicated than “note-on-note off.” Yamaha captures these sonic artifacts in the P-155. These meticulous efforts include recording a felt damper coming to rest on a vibrating string when a note is released [Key Off Samples], or reproducing the sound of the open strings that wash over your performance when using the damper pedal [Stereo Sustain Samples and Damper Resonance].
The Yamaha P-155 Digital Piano lets you enjoy portability and piano quality.
“You can share your musical ideas and masterpieces easily ...”
W
hether you’re practicing at home or away, performing solo or in a band, the Yamaha P-155 digital piano offers professional quality sound with top-shelf Yamaha digital piano technologies like advanced sampling methods and the ultra-expressive GH (Graded Hammer) keyboard. In the P-155, Yamaha crafts that heritage into a slim cabinet available in three contemporary finishes.
Hand-Crafted Pianos, High-Quality Voices To ensure the finest grand piano sound for the P-155, Yamaha’s finest 9-foot concert grand, a hand-picked CFIIIS was sourced. Next, a master piano technician painstakingly tuned and regulated the CFIIIS to sonic perfection. Then a Pure CF Sampling technology was applied to accurately capture every aspect of the CFIIIS sound, keeping post-processing to an absolute minimum to maintain sonic integrity throughout. The result is a truly authentic grand piano sound with powerful, dynamic bass, warm mid-range and crystal-clear highs. Layer Upon Layer Using Yamaha’s Dynamic Stereo Sampling (DSS) technology, the incredibly natural 4-level piano sample is a breakthrough achievement for digital pianos. It means that, depending on how hard you strike a note, you will hear one of four piano recordings on each and every key for an unprecedented level of dynamic range and tonal expression. Playing softly doesn’t simply lower the volume; it produces the quiet recordings of piano notes. And likewise, playing more forcefully triggers separate samples at different levels. Ascension to Detail If you close your eyes while playing a grand piano, you’ll find its sound is a bit more
32 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
A Touch Above Look inside the lid of a grand piano. Different sized strings require different sized hammers. Different sized hammers have different weights. The keyboard of the P-155 utilizes Yamaha’s GH (Graded Hammer) technology to reproduce the true “feel” of a grand piano keyboard action, with heavier touch in the lower keys, lighter touch in the higher keys, and subtle gradations of weight and response throughout. Performing or practicing on a GH keyboard properly develops and maintains an artist’s technique for making the transition between P-155 and an acoustic grand. Perfection Made Practical As a full-featured digital piano, the P-155 has an internal high-power, two-channel (12W + 12W) amplifier with highperformance speakers built-in. You can share your musical ideas and masterpieces easily with others by recording your performance to any attached USB storage device. Songs are stored as Standard MIDI Files (SMF) and can be emailed to and played back on any Mac or PC
Ambassador Stores is located at Government Avenue, opp Citibank, near Bab Al Bahrain, Manama. Tel. +973 1722 5513.
Fashion
Salsa Presents The Latest Innovation In Denim Fits
ate the e r c t a h t s The Jean stery”. y M “ a ’s It . perfect fit Mystery, the Jeans that Create Curves!
BD54
Salsa has been surprising the denim world since the launching of Push up - Wonder jeans in 2008. MYSTERY by Salsa is the newest highlight of this innovation process. The jeans MYSTERY by Salsa was created to enhance the female silhouette by creating curves at the woman’s bottom through the insertion of two internal pads that are undetectable to the naked eye. It is a mystery that redesigns the female body and creates the perfect visual effect. The R&D secret is in the internal pads which were created with a special material developed by Salsa to add the extra volume that redefines the bottom. The revolutionary anatomical effect is guaranteed thanks to the heart shape yoke that emphasizes the bottom and a wider waistband developed for sensuality and comfort. Salsa is located in The Bahrain City Centre and Mystery Jeans retail at BD54, for more information log onto www.salsa.pt
34 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
www. yaseminakat.com Seef Mall, Gate No 1, P.O. Box 21590 Tel. +973 1700 5020
Fashion BD44 each
BD79
BD51
DUNE Accessories BD97
BD72 each
BD65
BD44 BD48
Available in Bahrain City Centre, Tel. +973 1668 6215 and Seef Mall, Tel. +973 1668 6225.
36 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Dr. PIERRE R. CLERO Now relocated to Bahrain Specialist Hospital
+
Dr. Pierre R. Clero
International Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon Senior Consultant
+973 3619 7919 SERVICES FACE Botox, Fillers, Lifting, Rhinoplasty, Eyelids, Eye Bags, Nefertiti Lift, Lips Enhancement BREAST Breast Augmentation, Breast Reduction, Breast Lifting BODY Liposculpture, Body Contouring Buttocks Enhancement REJUVENATION From inside out with the latest breakthrough techniques from Hollywood WEIGHT LOSS Our exclusive SSXP DIET from Hollywood – lose 20 pounds in thirty days
From Paris, Hollywood to BAHRAIN
Beauty is in the hands of your surgeon Dr. Pierre R. Clero’s hands have more than thirty years of experience all over the world delivering excellence in cosmetic surgery. The trusted cosmetic surgeon of celebrities in Hollywood is now in Bahrain to serve his patients from the GCC. Dr. Pierre R. Clero and his patient coordinator Faith will listen to you with the utmost attention in order to deeply understand your desires and therefore deliver the perfect result. Websites:
www.seagulllongevitycenter.com www.seagullwellnessinternational.com
Call our patient coordinator Faith for a consultation: +973
3619 7919
Fashion BD80 BD92
BD92
Every great journey begins with a step.
GEOX MEN
BD80
For a man who gives priority to intelligence, which he uses to make decisions. And common sense, to guide his life.
BD80
BD80
BD74
BD74
BD63
BD69
BD69
Geox is located in Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall. 38 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Fashion
To celebrate the holiday season, David Beckham is introducing new items to his Bodywear range at H&M, as well as revealing new campaign images. The new styles are the ideal for warmth and comfort this winter, like a hooded morning gown, draw-string pyjama pants, Henleys and long johns with padded elbows and knees, and lounging shorts and T-shirts, as well as a towel. David wears a selection of the pieces in new Holidays campaign images, and lets the cameras come behind the scenes for a special video shoot. H&M is located at the Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall.
BD15.9
BD19.9 BD15.9
David Beckham Celebrates Holidays At H&M
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 39
Fashion
Dress
BD80
Little
Fashionistas @ Saks Fifth Avenue
40 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Fashion
Sweater
BD94 BD71 Shirt Shoes
BD122
Pants
BD94
Baby Dior
Monnalisa Chic BD32
Shoes
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 41
Fashion
Marni Kids BD48 Tshirt
BD115 Cardigan
BD60 Shorts
BD75
Shoes by Repetto
42 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Fashion
BD96 Handbag
BD193 Dress
Roberto Cavalli
– Cavalli Angels BD43 Leggings
All clothes and accessories are available from Saks Fifth Avenue which is located in the Bahrain City Centre.
BD133 Shoes by Baby Dior
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 43
Beauty
ips L & in k S , s e y E Flaunt Lovely tions! c e ll o C s in r la C h wit
BD9.5 BD18.5
For Your Eyes Only!
The Ombre Minérale Autumn Collection lets you pick your look. Illuminate and even with Colour Accents Face & Blush Powder, get instant radiance with Blush Prodige and Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch and shiny colourful lips with Rouge Prodige. For your eyes, choose from 16 shades with a variety of finishes; matte, satin, pearl or shimmer. The Ombre Minérale Wet & Dry Mineral Eyeshadow is smooth and long lasting. While the 3-Dot Liner is a pen-like liner which provides easy lining dot by dot. The Khôl Eye Pencil and Instant Definition Mascara create mysterious eyes.
BD12.2 BD7.7
BD14.6
BD11.7 BD18.5
Beauty
Buzz
Your Skin, Only Better
Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation combines the coverage of a foundation with the lightness of a loose powder to give the illusion of flawless, bare skin wit a perfect transparent finish.
Midnight Heat, Sensual Fragrance by Beyoncé
A tempting, sexy scent, created in collaboration with notable perfumer Olivier Gillotin of Givaudan. The fruity floral gourmand opens with top notes of Dragonfruit, Starfruit and Armenian Plum. The heart is a vivid bouquet built upon the Purple Mokara Orchid, Queen of the Night Black Tulip and Purple Peony. Finally, the base seduces the senses with Warm Amber, Patchouli and Sandalwood.
BD20.5
BD14.7 BD17.5* (50ml)
A Divine Odyssey
BD9.3
BD24* (100ml)
BD25.6
The Clarins woman takes on the look of a Greek goddess with the Odyssey Festive Make-up Collection. Majestic, radiant, flamboyant! Made of sumptuous matte and metallic tones and irresistible jewel-like powders! Illuminate your skin with Odyssey Face Palette, get beautifully defined lashes with Instant Definition Mascara, dress your eyes in gold with Eye Quartet Mineral Palette (LongLasting - Wet & Dry) and enhance your beautiful lips with Gloss Prodige. Continue overleaf
44 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
IT’S THE SEASON
TO BE GORGEOUS
Glam up for the holidays at Faces, and this must have bag is yours free with any qualifying purchase from 15 - 31 December.
Limited to one per person. Offer valid while stocks last.
www.faces-me.com
Beauty
Quench Your Skin’s Thirst with Bioderma Atoderm Cream
BD16.3
BD16.3 BD12.4
Get Peek-A-Bright Eyes!
The ultra-rich moisturizing and restructuring daily barrier cream for dry and sensitive skins. Atoderm Cream reinforces the skin barrier, thanks to biomimetic moisturizing and anti-dehydrating active ingredients, thereby limiting the penetration of irritating agents. It also retains water in the upper layers of the epidermis and prevents it from evaporating.
BD2.3
Benefit San Francisco has launched a new makeup kit that gives you big, bright eyes! It contains three complementary shadows and an eye brightener. Don’t forget to finish off with They’re Real, a mascara made of a beyond-belief formula and brush that lengthens, curls, volumises, lifts & separates revealing lashes you never knew you had.
Anti-Aging Formula with DNA Repair
BD48.37 (100ml)
With its inimitable fluid texture, subtle scent and amber color, 365 Cellular Elixir has infused anti-aging routines with both technology and a unique touch of glamour. Its revolutionary and unprecedented formula has made it a universal serum, which helps to repair the skin’s most precious asset: its DNA.
For Him Guess Seductive Homme Blue The Guess man is passionate. Free-spirited, charismatic, cool and sophisticated, he embodies the dynamism of today’s modern man. Coty Beauty introduces Guess Seductive Homme Blue made with a mélange of spicy, peppery notes, brisk aquatic accords and a sensual, earthy base.
BD20.99 (50ml) BD27.64 (100ml)
Coco Noir by Gabrielle Chanel
Coco Noir is a signature of desire, modesty, mystery and brilliance. The base of Coco Noir is generously layered with sandalwood, vetiver, frankincense, patchouli, vanilla, tonka bean and a musky note.
Happy Holiday!
Let Ashaar by Rasasi Perfumes Captivate You
Ashaar Collection comes with a strong Bergamot whiff with a fruity touch and caters to the sense & style of people who enjoy finer things in life. Coming in two variants, Ashaar Pour Femme and Homme are soft and subtle fragrances offering an earthy yet ethereal feel that almost turns in upon itself!
BD52.5 (50ml) BD12.8
BD75(100ml) *Approximate prices
BD12.8
Unless otherwise stated, products are available at leading cosmetic outlets.
46 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Pamper Yourself At
BellaCura Beauty Lounge & Salon
A spot for sheer relaxation. BellaCura Beauty Lounge & Salon is located in the heart of Juffair. A well experienced salon, which provides you the full range of head to toe services to pamper yourself and enhance your beauty. This ladies-only parlour is designed to rejuvenate and re-establish harmony between mind and body at very affordable price, great ambience and a friendly atmosphere. Winters are lovely and a time for celebrations and festivity. Winters are always
dead cells which make the body look dull. As you age, skin cells accumulate on the skin surface and take longer to renew themselves. A good body scrub lends an instant shine to your skin, it soaks moisturisers better and is great for people with dry, discoloured skin or people with in growth hair! “Body massages on the other hand are like heaven on earth. A massage pampers skin as well as rejuvenates and refreshes the
scrubs such as sugar scrub, aromatherapy scrub, body radiance scrub, The Javanese lulur body scrub, sea salt body polish, body packs and the extra luxurious body spa. The Price ranges: from BD10 to BD25 and the sessions last from 60 minutes to 90 minutes. Bellacura’s range of massages include - Swedish, Relaxing, Indian, Combination, Therapeutic and Coin massages. The Price ranges from BD5 to BD12 and the sessions last for 60 minutes. The salon is open on all days of the week. So get set, indulge at BellaCura and feel more beautiful, more luxurious and look your prettiest for this festive season!
“A good body scrub lends an instant shine to your skin.” welcome but they bring along with it rough and dry skin. This fall is the perfect time to indulge in BellaCura’s Body Spa’s, Body Treatments and Body Massages! Bahrain Confidential chats with Fatima Dhorada, Proprietor of BellaCura who tell us what’s a must this season! “Body scrubs and massages! Body scrubs makes the skin more youthful, helps remove
mind and body. They are the most therapeutic for the body. Winter can make you feel sluggish and tired, and a massage can be a real pick-me-up. Massages can help stabilize collagen and maintain skin elasticity during the dry winter months. Massages highly help in blood circulation, stress reduction, and boosts your immune system.’’ Bellacura has a range of invigorating body
For more details contact, Tel. +973 1736 4955, +973 3661 4814. Email: bellacura@gmail.com Twitter:@bellacurasalon, Facebook: Bellacura Beauty Lounge & Salon
BiCE - Italian fine dining since 1926 now open in Modal Mall
For more information & reservations Moda Mall +973 1753 3666
Beauty
Beauty Through Nature Due to the phenomenal success that the luxury store DURANCE has had in Saudi Arabia. Zohoor Alreef, who are the local franchisee for the company has opened in Bahrain.
D
URANCE develops natural perfumes and cosmetics products suited for most skin types along with home fragrances. Nature is DURANCE’s prime source of inspiration. The company is located in rural Grignan, France among the fine lavender fields and ancient truffle beds and looks for inspiration from the stunning countryside and scents that make up this fertile land. It combines the finest quality raw materials with the art of fragrance-making to create heavenly fragrances and cosmetics. It also offers a wonderful selection of home fragrances to infuse any home or linen with delicate and refined fragrances. DURANCE believes in only mixing the highest quality oils such as organic rose essential oil, organic lavender essential oil from Grignan and organic olive oil from Nyons to create the most natural products that they can offer. This love of nature and everything
beautiful has built the unique emblematic identity for DURANCE. Respect is an essential value for DURANCE: respect of nature in all the products it creates, respect of the environment and respect of mankind. This is why they are committed to making products and cosmetics that: • Have a minimum content of 95 per cent natural ingredients. • Are paraben-free, phenoxyethanol-free, sodium laureth sulfate-free, and propylene glycol-free. • Are not tested on animals. The skin care offers a variety of ranges to meet the specific needs for dry, sensitive through to oily skin. Products include face
moisturisers, toners, facial scrubs, shampoos etc and each product within these ranges hold the coveted Ecocert certification for natural and organic cosmetics. There is a specific men’s grooming range too. The home fragrance range is made with delicate scent from Grasse to create an ambiance in your home and includes a vast array of stunning products to make your home smell as if you’re living in the heart of the Province. The Bath and Body care offers a range of products based on Grasse fragrances which not only gives the body a deep moisturizing but leaves it smelling beautiful and fresh Durance is located at Bahrain City Centre, first floor nearly opposite Virgin Store.
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Win a Stunning DURANCE Gift Box Worth BD50! To celebrate DURANCE success and its first store opening in Bahrain. Bahrain Confidential has teamed up with DURANCE and wants five lucky readers to personally experience these wonderful products. To win a stunning DURANCE gift box worth BD50 answer the question below Who is the franchisee for DURANCE in the Middle East? Email your answer to competition@ArabianMagazines.com please include age, telephone number, nationality and favorite section of the magazine for internal purposes only.
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48 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Beauty
Lash Spa
“Everything for Eyes, Lashes & Brows” Tucked away in the new extensions in Al A’ali Shopping Complex is the first boutique in Bahrain to specialise in semi-permanent eyelash extensions. Beautifully presented this Spa is designed for the girlie-girl within all us women. As you enter the spa – words such as uniqueness, indulgence, luxury and relaxation come to mind. It feels like a complete retreat as you’re led to your cubicle which has been designed to bring a relaxing pleasure to all whom enters as soothing music plays in the back ground. All Lash Spa’s treatments have been carefully designed to promote a sense of indulgence and rejuvenation for the eyes. Treatments include personalised, rejuvenating eye treatments, eye brow tinting and of course eye lash extensions along with specialized beauty products. Eye lash extensions have become popular since reality stars such as Kim Karashian are never seen without them. Unlike fake eye lashes that are available from most beauty outlets – eye lash extensions are supposed to last up to six weeks if treated correctly.
Semi-permanent eyelash extensions will give you longer, thicker and very natural looking eyelashes and are available in varying lengths and thickness. You as the client decide how you want your lashes to look. Natural looking but slightly fuller or perhaps you would prefer to be transformed into a sexy kitten? Once you’ve tried eye lash extensions – it’s very difficult not to go back for more. They transform your look instantly and give you that wide eyed WOW factor. Extensions are perfect for everyday wear as well as special occasions. They are semipermanent synthetic fibers which are curved to replicate a natural eyelash. Each lash is applied one by one to your own natural lashes and takes up to one and half hours to apply. So if you don’t have time for a complete make-over. Pop into Lash Spa – no-one needs to know that you have extensions. They will just think you were born with beautiful, long lashes! For a full set of Eye Lash Extensions it will cost BD40
Before
After
Lash Spa is located at Al A’ali Shopping Complex in the new extension: Tel. +973 1759 9044.
xmas
Offer
FREE Eyebrow Tinting with every Full Set of Eyelash Extension. Book an appointment before 31st Dec 2012
LASH SPA is the only specialized boutique dedicated to offering you the best in eyelash extensions.
Ground floor in Al A’ali Mall, Time: 7 days a week from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm For more information please call 17 599 044.
www.lashspa.net
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 49
Health & Beauty
Remove Unwanted Fat For A Better Figure Dr. Pierre R Clero talks about Liposuction, a quick and easy way to lose fat. “It could take up to six months to see the final results of liposuction. However, most people notice a marked difference in three months.” most people notice a marked difference in three months. Dr Pierre R Clero will advise you on the best procedure for you. With plastic surgery, like any other surgery, there are some unlikely problems which one must understand and be prepared to accept. They can develop even with the best medical care. You should refrain from smoking, using any nicotine products (patches or chewing gum) and blood thinning medicines like Aspirin or Ibuprofen for at least seven days before surgery. Also, consuming Chinese green tea and vitamin E tablets may cause bleeding. Note that your fat is also a great source of stem cells that can be stored and used later on in case you need it. Your fat can also be used for immediate transfer especially to your face for rejuvenation; this procedure is called Volumetric Facelift.
L
iposuction (Liposculpture) is a predictable and safe procedure in cosmetic surgery. It is designed to remove unwanted fat from stubborn areas, such as the stomach and hips that is difficult to shed by dieting or exercise. Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure to remove inches rather than pounds. It is by no means a weight reduction procedure. However, for an overweight patient associated with diet and exercise, liposuction helps shed stubborn fat deposit. Removing five kg of fat is equivalent to losing 50,000 calories, a result which is gained only after three months of dieting.
50 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Dr Pierre R Clero
It is important to note that your body fat plays an active storage role and has many metabolic and hormonal functions. Metabolic fat lowers metabolism, this basically means that the more fat you have, the more your body is susceptible to store fat. Hormonal fat on the other hand makes you insulin resistant, exposing you to Type 2 Diabetes. Fat is a major hormonal organ that synthesize estrogens (the female hormone) exposing women to a higher rate of breast cancer. For men it raises their level of estrogens and lowers their level of testosterone with detrimental consequences on their health such as potency issues, Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It could take up to six months to see the final results of liposuction. However,
French cosmetic surgeon Dr Pierre R Clero has more than thirty years of experience in the industry and provides the following services: Liposuction/Liposculpture procedures Excess fat removal Body contouring surgery Breast augmentation, breast reduction, blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty, lifting Dr Pierre R Clero is also the President of the International Board of Regenerative Medicine and Bio-Cosmetic Surgery. Author of the best seller “Stop the Clock, A Winning Strategy to a Longer Life and Healthier Body.” For more information and appointments, call Patient Coordinator Faith at Tel. +973 3619 7919.
Dancers of the Brazilian show troupe “A Taste of Brazil”, dressed in colourful costumes will leave you spellbound with their fantastic dance shows on the New Year’s eve party. An authentic Brazilian floor show; an eye popping spectacle priced BD 55.000++ at the Flamingo Bar and Silk restaurant, and BD 65.000++ at the Gallery. When the big night’s over, don’t worry about driving home late, for you can take advantage of our overnight package. A unique and fabulous experience awaits with our Silk’s or Flamingo’s package priced BD 185.000++ per couple, or our Gallery’s package priced BD 205.000++ per couple, inclusive of the Gala buffet, shows, drinks and overnight stay in one of the hotel’s exquisite rooms.
www.moevenpick-hotels.com
www.moevenpick-hotels.com
Celebrate the night
wake up in style.
Health
Multivitamins Reduce Cancer Risk in Men
According to US research, taking daily multivitamins may lower men’s risk of developing cancer. It was determined that men who took multivitamins for over a decade had an estimated eight per cent lower risk of getting cancer. Other lifestyle factors that contribute to cancer prevention are quitting smoking, eating healthy, moderating alcohol consumption and exercising regularly.
Health Updates Creativity Linked to Mental Illness
Playing Football Tackles High BP in Men
Men who play football can battle high blood pressure and feel fitter. Men who played recreational football for one hour twice a week for six months had lower blood pressure and increased aerobic fitness. High blood pressure or hypertension is linked to developing cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, coronary heart disease and kidney failure. This study specifically looked at the results of recreational football training because the researchers determined the sport as an intense and sporadic activity.
52 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Creativity has been linked to mental illnesses after a study of more than one million Swedish health records. People diagnosed with various mental illnesses tend to have creative professions. Specifically writers are more likely to suffer a range of disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, alcohol and substance abuse, autism, ADHD and committing suicide. However, do keep in mind that people in other professions can also have a creative flair. Also remember that creativity is perceived differently by everybody. Mental illnesses can also be genetic. Vincent van Gogh: a creative genius, famously harmed himself.
Exercise Before Breakfast to Lose More Weight
A British study based on overweight men has determined that exercising before breakfast may boost weight-loss. Exercising before eating breakfast resulted in greater overall breakdown of fat and carbohydrate compared to working out after consuming food. Reduced blood fats also prevent heart disease. One has to consider that weight-loss is a slow process and eating after exercise will activate more fat burning by only a tenth more than those who had a relaxed morning.
Desk Job Doubles Risk of Heart Attack
Sitting or being inactive in one spot for a long time increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease and death. Sitting or lying down while awake is known as sedentary behaviour and leads to such medical complications. The link between sedentary behaviour and health became famous in the 1950s when researchers noticed that bus drivers were twice as likely to suffer heart attacks compared to bus conductors. The newest findings show that the average adult now spends 50 to 60 per cent of their day sedentarily, this includes desk job workers.
Health
Choosing The Right Eye Care IBN Rushd Clinics 2, the specialised Eye Centre highlights the importance of medical research and technology in Ophthalmology.
H
ow can we benefit from new medical discoveries? And what are some of aspects we need to keep in mind before choosing a procedure. We always expect to benefit from medical revolutions which invent medical devices or medical drugs which can heal untraceable and chronic diseases. Almost every day one hears about a new treatment or some new technology or surgical approach which is discovered and then a big bang of publicity happens in the media. Though such advances in technology are good, we as doctors have to be cautious and not rush into applying the new technology. We must wait until we see the long term effect of this newly discovered medication or the newly invented medical equipments. In the field of Ophthalmology (science of eye discoveries and surgery) we must admit that the laser therapeutic diagnostic devices have done miracles. We ourselves are using very advanced and very intelligent laser technology in laser vision correction
procedures and also laser application in treating retinal diseases such as diabetic rethinopathies, retina lesion and retinal holes. We at IBN Rushd Clinic, have just discovered the benefits of laser technology in treating the cataract but it’s just in the early stage, we can’t recommend our patients such technology because it has not reached a level of perfection and results are not sure, so we still recommend the very proven technology “Laserphaco Emulsification”.
good and safe and we are offering those to our patients routinely. There are many things which haven’t been discovered yet for example replacing damaged nerves of the eye or replacing damaged retina though devices like mini chips which are implanted in the retina but nothing has been confirmed about its effect or safety. We feel committed to educate and inform our patients that not all new and latest technologies, treatments or therapies are safe and they shouldn’t experiment with practices which don’t guarantee efficiency, predictability, safety and lasting effects. Before choosing any procedure we recommend our patients seek medical advice from centres which has highly qualified and experienced doctors and staff and are well equipped with the latest technology
“Not all new and latest technologies, treatments or therapies are safe.”
54 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
For patients who have high short sight or very high far sight, we don’t recommend laser technology, because it’s totally damaging and has unwanted side effects, instead we recommend implanting a “mini implantable” contact lens inside the eye which replaces the power of thick glasses or the usual contact lenses. It is very safe and has proven results. Such technology has been used in our specialised eye centre for the last 15 years. There are also many new models of implantable lenses which have proved to be
This article is contributed by Dr Hassan H Al Arrayedh, Consultant Ophthalmic. For appointments, please contact. Tel. +973 3625 0400, +973 1772 2828, +973 1774 1282.
Health & Beauty
Destination Health
RECIPE
Dr Pierre R Clero guides us to wellness and a correct, healthy diet.
in the field of cosmetic surgery, diet and wellness – I can guide you through this maze to get the most precious wealth you will ever get,” Dr Clero offers. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. They also claim that there are around three million deaths each year caused through degenerative diseases. The good news is that a large percentage of these deaths can be avoided. Disease and illness can often be triggered by a combination of the wrong foods, smoking combined with a lack of exercise. It depletes the body of all the essential nutrients that it needs to maintain health and causes more damage than people realise. This is why despite all the Dr Pierre R Clero advancement in health care many people are getting diseases such as cancers, looking older or suffering from age related illness earlier lastic Surgeon and than they should be. Too many people think President of the antibiotics or doctors can cure everything – International Board we know this is not true. This is why we have of Age Management, to take responsibility for our own health. Regenerative Medicine Join Dr Pierre with Bahrain Confidential and Bio-cosmetic Surgery, every month as he teaches how to take Dr Clero says there’s charge of your health. This month Dr Pierre a maze of information shares a healthy recipe, ideal for diabetics available in the media about health and wellness. Due to this, people are unable to make the right choices Dr Pierre R and confused about how to reach a stage of Clero is also “super health”. the President of He wants to help and guide others the International through a path of health and diet Board of awareness, especially in Bahrain which Regenerative is ranked to have the highest number of Medicine and diabetics. “If you’re serious about improving Bio-Cosmetic your lifestyle, committed to following Surgery. Author through and maintaining changes, then with of the best seller my thirty years of experience and research “Stop the Clock, A
P
“We have to take responsibility for our own health. ” 56 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Winning Strategy to a Longer Life and Healthier Body.” For more information and appointments, call Patient Coordinator Faith at Tel. +973 3619 7919.
Chicken Thighs with Leek & Shiitakes Definition: Give chicken thighs a quick saute and finish them with a tarragonscented sauce. This dish goes well with roasted new potatoes and Lemon Lover’s Asparagus. Look for presliced shiitakes to preparation even faster. Serves two. Preparation time, 35 minutes. Nutrition Profile: Low Calorie, Low Carb, Low Sodium, Low Sat Fat, Heart Healthy, Diabetes Appropriate, Healthy Weight. Per Serving: 330 calories, 16g fat (3g sat, 9g mono), 77mg cholesterol, 18g carbohydrate, 24g protein, 2g fiber, 256mg sodium, 329mg potassium. Nutrition bonus: Selenium, Zinc, Vitamin A and C. One Carbohydrate Serving. Ingrediets: 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of fat 1 tbsp all-purpose flour 3 tsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 large leek, white and green parts only, diced 4 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced ½ cup reduced-sodium chicken broth ¼ cup dry white wine 1/8 tsp salt 1 tsp minced fresh tarragon or ½ tsp dried Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 3 lean meat, 1 ½ fat. Methods: 1) Place chicken on plate and sprinkle flour over it. Reserve excess flour. 2) Heat 2 tsp oil in large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, turning once, until browned on both sides, four to six minutes total. Transfer to plate and cover with foil to keep warm. 3) Add remaining 1 tsp oil, leek and mushrooms to pan. Stir and cook till tender, six to eight minutes. 4) Sprinkle reserved flour over vegetables and stir to coat. Add broth, wine and salt and bring to simmer. Return the chicken to pan and simmer, turning it occasionally until it’s cooked for four to six minutes. Stir in tarragon.
Opinion
Resolve To Get
Healthier This New Year!
John Ridley suggests a resolution to cook healthy, home cooked meals, using the best of ingredients.
John R Ridley
organisation’s list of endorsed products is limited in number, but growing. Ingredients • 8 organic, free range, chicken breasts • 3 table spoons beef tallow • 1 onion • 750 ml water • 2 bay leaves • 500 grams organic walnuts • 1 tablespoon organic, gluten free, cornflour • 250 ml pomegranate juice
N
ew Year has always been a time to change one aspect of our lives for the better. For some this may mean getting out of bed fifteen minutes earlier and giving the dog longer morning walks - either for the dog’s benefit, or the owner’s. For others, it may be a promise to stop watching “Arabia’s’ Got Talent” and tuning into “Inside Story” instead. This New Year, make a resolution that could make a life-long improvement to your well-being - spend more time with your loved ones and friends. Enjoy each other’s company over delicious, healthy, home cooked meals, using the best ingredients. By buying fresh ingredients, instead of frozen or processed food, you’ll pay more attention to what is in season. Fresh ingredients are healthier, better for the environment and have a positive effect upon the local economy - changing our collective lives for the better. Don’t change everything in one go, find what suits you. Long hours of work do not have to be incompatible with improving your well being. Instead of toiling in the kitchen alone, share the meal preparation; discuss the latests episode of that TV programme whilst dicing carrots or chopping coriander. Take a journey of discovery, experiment with new ingredients, new tastes and new textures; try different vegetables or bake with alternative flours. For instance, try cakes made from polenta, instead of ordinary flour, you will never bake with wheat again - the
58 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
taste and texture are sensational. This winter, experiment by cooking Fesenjan, a wonderful Persian stew, normally eaten on special occasions. Dark in colour, it looks uninspiring; my first encounter was cautious. However, the toasted walnuts are rich and warm and the pomegranate juice sharp, from the very first mouthful I knew I had fallen in love. The ingredients are few; the method is simple, and whilst cooking, there is time to enjoy the company of others. I, and a growing number of people, prefer to cook with animal fats, instead of oils. Vegetable oils are heat extracted using chemicals derived from petroleum, then further chemically processed to make them palatable. The molecular structure of these processed oils is radically different to the animal fats that our bodies have evolved to digest. Eating natural fat helps the body digest and absorb nutrients; people who consume a reasonable amount of natural fat have far healthier hearts and less incidence of diabetes. If you buy oils, look for the cold pressed or virgin varieties - they have been extracted without chemicals. Where possible, use animal fats for cooking, but should you prefer to use oil, cold pressed sesame, ground and coconut oils are safe as they remain stable at high temperature. Take the opportunity to experiment, tallow is available in 100gram tubs from The Organic Café and Shop, in Seef Mall. You can be assured of the quality, they make it themselves and have been independently endorsed by a UK based organisation that only approves products meeting strict guidelines on ingredients and production. The
Method for the Fesenjan Toast the walnuts, ensuring that they don’t burn. Leave to cool on a baking sheet, then chop in a food processor. Sauté onion in tallow. Season chicken with salt and pepper, add to the onion and cook for a few minutes, turning once - do not let the chicken breasts brown. Add bay leaves and 125 ml of water. Cover and cook for 30 minutes. In a second pan, thoroughly mix the corn flour with 500 ml of water. Add ground walnuts and stir in. Cook on a low heat, taking care that the mixture does not burn. Watch for a layer of oil forming on top of the walnuts. Add pomegranate juice and mix well. Add the chicken breasts and onions, making sure that each piece is submerged. Cook for a few minutes so that the flavours incorporate and chicken warms through. Serve over rice and garnish with pomegranate seeds. In this first article I have touched upon many important topics, in the coming months I will discuss how food affects the many stages of our lives.
Do write and tell me if you enjoyed the Fesenjan! May I be the first to wish you all a Happy and Peaceful New Year John Ridley is a Bahrain based journalist, he can be contacted at john@johnridley.nuorjohn@ghostwriting.me The right words, the right copy, the right impact.
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Opinion
Ending Envy Kelly Armatage, our resident Counsellor, Life Coach and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist talks about the green-eyed monster-Envy and its impact on the quality of our life and what we should do to overcome the feelings of jealousy.
E
nvy is the deeply negative emotion that signifies the resentment of other people’s success. The emotion of jealousy can cut profoundly and only hurts the person emitting this unfavourable energy. The consequences of
differential of their negative success versus other people’s more positive success. If a person is afflicted with negative feelings such as jealousy on a regular basis; then the self esteem of that individual is at an all time low. Self esteem is the high appreciation and love of oneself; if a low level emotion such as jealousy is felt regularly, then there is a lack of love for oneself. In summary, self appreciation and a high self value do not
Kelly Armatage
have the intelligence/skills etc to have that type of life”. Turnaround these negative thoughts into the opposite meanings ie. “I do deserve success”. “I am just as lucky”. “If I want it enough, I can create the skills needed to get those successful results”. Then look for past evidential results, that prove this new way of thinking could be true.
Step 2
Learn to bless others and wish for them the very best in their lives. By wishing success, abundance and prosperity to others, you are utterly attracting these exact outcomes back to yourself.
Step 3
Learn to stop procrastination (the putting off of important tasks) and actually start putting actions in place towards the life you desire.
Step 4 Step 5
“By ending envy, you close the door on any failures within your own life and open the door of attracting every success you dream of.” envy include the suffering of painful feelings, the inability to connect to others properly and the attraction of a less than satisfying life. When jealousy is an issue in a person’s life, it is because a self belief or thought has been created of inferiority or lack. They are envious of another person’s possessions, accomplishments or relationships basically because they feel that they are unlikely to enjoy this in their lives too. So a thought is created such as “they have everything and I have nothing”, which then manifests the hurtful energy of envy from within. By harbouring these types of thoughts, a person can suffer from procrastination (the delay or non-completion of important life goals), a lack of self confidence and a non-deserving attitude thus resulting in the
60 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
include harnessing envious emotions. Someone that has high self esteem lives whilst feeling the emotions of peace, contentment, joy and happiness. There is a high acceptance of themselves and their achievements and a high embracing of others and an appreciation of their accomplishments too.
So how does one combat the greeneyed monster of envy? Recognise that the jealous emotions are being provoked due to negative self beliefs. The negative self beliefs would be along the lines of: “I do not deserve success”. “They are better/luckier than me”. “I do not
Step 1
Increase self-confidence and self belief daily via repetitive, cognitive affirmation such as “I can achieve these goals, I do have the skills”. “I deserve this amazing outcome and I will get there somehow, someway”. By ending envy, you close the door on any failures within your own life and open the door of attracting every success you dream of. By ending envy you create less conflict and more harmony in your relationships with others. By ending envy you raise your energy through feeling good, clean, positive emotions. The story of envy in your life can stop; it is your choice on how many times you want to turn the page of inferiority thinking
Kelly Armatage Inc - Offering Counselling, Life Coaching and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Sessions. For enquiries, Tel. +973 3993 1399 or visit www.kellyarmatage.com All feedback on Kelly Armatage Inc’s services and services is always greatly received. Please email: info@kellyarmatage.com
Pets ay season Make the holid special for your pets with this utterly cute, soft and adorable collection! BD3.8 BD8
Grriggles Merry Martians Dog Toys
Forget about traditional Snowman, Santa and Reindeer, the Grriggles Merry Martians Dog Toys will rock this world. Dogs will love their soft, cuddly texture; owners will love their unique, funny style.A squeaker inside adds extra playtime fun.
East Side Collection Present Sweaters for Dog
BD5.9
Give pets the gift of warmth and style this holiday season with the East Side Collection Present Sweaters. Warm acrylic knit sweaters have a bright bow and ribbon design with shimmering gold thread accents.
Doggie Delight Holiday Stocking 14” Santa is filled with toys in holiday colours that are sure to catch anyone’s eye! Each stocking contains a 5 1/2” vinyl Santa with squeaker, 9” Knotted Cotton Rope, a 2 1/2” Two-Tone Holiday Tennis Ball, and a 5 1/2” squeaker toy.
Grriggles Snuggle Up Pals Dog Toys
BD5
These Grriggles Snuggle Up Pals dog toys give well-behaved dogs some fun during the holiday season. The unique round shape is great for throwing and fetching. The squeaker within is for added amusement.
Doggie Delight Holiday Stockings
BD5.9
East Side Collection Holiday Tartan Dog Boots
These charming East Side Collection Holiday Tartan Dog Boots not only help keep pups’ feet warm and comfy for winter walks, but also look fabulous. These dog boots feature a gorgeous tartan design and sherpa trim.
Grriggles Holiday Double Darlings Dog Toys
Pulling games are more fun with these bungee body Grriggles Holiday Double Darlings Dog Toys with a fun holiday character on each end. Each toy stretches to 19” and includes a squeaker. Soft moppy fabric on the bungee body makes it great for chewing.
BD12.75
Winter Wigglers Cat Toys
BD8 East Side Collection Holiday Argyle Dog Sweaters
Pets can show off their holiday spirit in this collection! This classic patterned sweater is sprinkled with Yuletide features that will make dogs howl with cheer.
Cats will go crazy for Winter Wigglers Cat Toys. Adorable cat toys are squirmy worms. Simply pull their tail and watch them wiggle across the floor. No batteries required.
Grriggles Noel Nuzzler Toys Aria Santa Hats for Dogs
Small - BD3.8 Medium/Large BD4.5
Aria Yuletide Tartan Antlers
Aria Yuletide Tartan Antlers are the perfect way to easily dress up dogs for the holidays. With silver stitching throughout, the adjustable elastic strap makes it comfortable. Available in two sizes.
62 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Soft fleece Aria Santa Hats for Dogs are available in three sizes for every pet. Each hat includes a comfortable, adjustable elastic chinstrap. Snowball pompom adds a jaunty, adorable touch!
Small - BD2 Medium - BD2.4 Large - BD2.7
The soft berber Grriggles Noel Nuzzler Toys have different textures, making them great for chewing and snuggling. Available in three festive holiday characters – Reindeer, Santa, and Snowman, the toys include squeakers for added fun.
BD3.5
Contact Pet Arabia on Budaiya: Tel. +973 1759 2288; Amwaj: Tel. +973 1601 0501. Visit www.petarabia.com, Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @PetArabia. Also search for PetArabia on Facebook.
Amwaj Feature
The Sea Loft
ta y – S o t s e c a l P ce s n e d i s e R & s Hot e l
The Sea Loft
These unique and exclusive villas offer the convenience of a luxury hotel while providing residents with all the comforts of their home. The Sea Loft consists of 17 superior fullyfurnished, three storey loft styled residences.
Live The Island Drea m Today
Nestled on Bahrain’s coast, home to beautiful sunrises, blue waters and the tranquillity of an ideal island life, Amwaj Islands is a community that offers a modern twist with residential, commercial and retail outlets. A heap of fun, excitement and activities are always in store for residents and visitors alike. You’ll always find new dining opportunities, activities, properties and of course, friends. Very close to Muharraq and just a 20 minutes drive from the capital, Manama, Amwaj Islands is a vibrant and hip location where you’re certain to discover something new at every visit!
Al Marsa Floating City
Developed by Bahrain-based Al Saraya Properties, and designed by Frenchdesigner and architect Bernard Spoerry, this is known as the ‘Venice of Bahrain’. Each of the 320 residences have both canal and road frontages.
Amwaj Homes
Amwaj Homes Al Marsa Floating City
s 64 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
250 villas and apartments separated into three residence compounds, Amwaj Homes offers a tranquil lifestyle experience. Residents can pick from three to five-bedroom villas and one to fourbedroom apartments.
Amwaj Feature Meena 7
Alia Mansions
Alia Mansions
Three-bedroom apartments, with modern facilities and easy access to the island’s recreational activities. Situated close to the entrance of Amwaj Islands, Alia Mansions is an example of luxury and elegant living.
Seven elegant condominiums with a total of 226 apartments, Meena 7 towers redefine luxury and are an astounding essence of elegant architecture. Meena 7
Raniya Row
Tala Island
Raniya Row
A block of ten identical buildings in a row, developed by Yara Investments, Raniya Row offers 257 fully furnished studio apartments, solely on rental basis at attractive rates.
Situated in the heart of Amwaj Islands is the Spanish Mediterranean style Tala Island. It features a Tala Island landscaped pool, beach areas and boardwalk, health club, tennis court, squash court, communal beach and visitor’s amenities. With 591 apartments and 85 villas, Tala Island currently has only a few more apartments available for sale or rent.
Amwaj Business Park Interior
The Renaissance Bahrain Amwaj Islands Hotel
Amwaj Business Park Interior
The Renaissance Bahrain Amwaj Islands Hotel
Over 300 guestrooms, 25 suites, a presidential suite and 250m long beach. The hotel contains eight restaurants and lounges, a banquet hall, health club and outdoor pool.
The Dragon Hotel & Resort
A secluded getaway set along the scenic waterfront. Try out Muju Restaurant & Lounge, Yamin Jana with an open air shisha lounge or sports pub Corners.The Dragon also offers a variety of outdoor activities.
Zawia Towers
Overlooking The Lagoon, Zawia Towers lets you create your home in the centre of the Amwaj Island development. Zawia Towers
Amwaj Business Park
One of Amwaj’s key projects and first seafront block on the island. The Business Park provides more than 40 units and over 250 car parks which will allow hassle free-parking for tenants and visitors. Amwaj Features continues on the next page ... December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 65
Amwaj Feature Mei N Yu
International cuisine served in a casual and smart restaurant. Order salads, sandwiches, burgers mouth watering steaks and more. Dine indoors or al fresco, over-looking the lagoon. Mei N Yu
t– a E o t s e c a Pl ing n i D & s t n ra R e st a u The Lagoon
Located in the heart of Amwaj Islands, The Lagoon is the center of the community. A turquoise lagoon centers all the outlets giving way to shopping by the sea and a one km long promenade with scenic views. Take a walk and choose to dine in the finest restaurants offering a range of international cuisines.
Leewan Al Khor
Authentic home-made Khaleeji (Gulf) cuisine, ranging from seafood, grills to desserts.
Houseboat
it n e m A r e h Ot
Houseboat
– o D o t s g n i Th A ll r o f s e i it v i t c A
For all your hairdressing needs. Managed by a hairstylist with over 20 years of international experience. For appointments, Tel. +973 3697 7718.
JOZ Salon & Spa
A fashion haven and one-stop shop for all beauty, salon and spa needs. JOZ offers a wide array of beauty products and services. For appointments, Tel. +973 1603 1120.
Pet Arabia
Specialised in pet supplies, products and grooming services (particularly for cats and dogs). Tel. +973 1601 0501 or visit www.petarabia.com
Aminals Gym
The club offers a variety of seasonal SCUBA diving and snorkelling programs. For membership information call Tel. +973 3967 1748.
Kut & Dry Gent’s Salon
Ultimate destination for hands, feet and body in Bahrain and beyond. For appointments, Tel. +973 1601 0555.
Surfski is a great way to get out on the water and raise your fitness level. The Amwaj Marina Surfski Club provides facilities for paddlers and also acts as a centre for training, competitions and events. For more information call Tel. +973 3664 0272.
Amwaj Dive Club
ie s
‘5’ Salon
Surfski Paddling
Children Gymnastics offered for kids aged three to five and Baby Gym for babies between 12 and 36 months. For more information call Tel. +973 1603 0103.
For restaurant reservations or phone in order call Tel. +973 1601 0160 / +973 3636 6500. Expected to open soon, The Marina Village Project comprises nine fine dining restaurants and private beach club. A landscape and general function area will overlook the Marina. The restaurants will offer diverse cuisines such as Lebanese, Fusion, Italian and Japanese.
Craving for a hot dog, spud or sub? Come down to Alosra Building, Shop 3.
Surfski Paddling
Enjoy Persian delights with kebabs that melt in your mouth and an array of healthy dishes.
Marina Village
Franky Joe’s
Distinctive Asian menu offered while spending a relaxing afternoon lunch or romantic dinner. Indoor and outdoor catering also provided.
Persian Room
Surfski Paddling
Kindermusik
Kindermusik (USA) is world renowned music and movement program for children aged newborn to seven years. The classes are designed to enhance your child’s development and instil a lifelong love of music. For more information call Tel. +973 1603 0103.
The Cat House
The complete care house for your cat, this store is the first to be dedicated only to cats and offers many products such as beds, travelling boxes, litter boxes, food, shampoo and much more. You can also buy a cat from a large collection of CFA registered cats and kittens. To book an appointment call Tel. +973 1603 0200 / +973 3663 6283 or visit www.thecathouse-bh.com Amwaj Features continues on the next page ...
66 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Amwaj Feature
Luxurious Treatments
Treatments What is unique and different about Yara Beauty Lounge (YBL)? YBL provides a beauty sanctuary you will never want to leave. Positioned on the beautiful and peaceful Amwaj Islands in Northern Bahrain, YBL provides you with the ultimate luxury beauty experience through some of the best treatments from around the world - all delivered by our dedicated, professional staff. What treatments do you offer the Clients? Our clients will certainly enjoy the tranquillity of the YBL and get personalised attention. You will feel relaxed, refreshed
and rejuvenated in surroundings that will put you at ease the moment you step through our doors. Whether you visit us for single treatments or beauty packages, you will leave feeling a different person. We
have an in house British Hair stylist who will make you look like a million dollars with his expertise in hair care and styling. We have specialised washing units, calming lights and a relaxing music will put you in a relaxed mood. No two faces are identical, we spend time understanding your skin type before we treat you. For your face, we offer very special treatments using the product range from GUINOT, a luxurious skin and body care brand from Paris. YBL also offers a special skin tanning exclusively from ST. Tropez, that will give you the tan colour you desire. ST. Tropez is not easily available in the Middle East but is readily available at YBL. Our Morrocan baths will refresh and purify you, helping you feel relaxed and rejuvenated. We have private steam rooms. Our staff professionally cleanse and exfoliate your skin using a variety of essential oils and body masks, including the 24 Karat Gold Cleopatra body mask. We have Thai masseuse who are experts in this massage technique which provides total relaxation. The massage rooms have soft lighting, warm candles and serene music to relax your mind and body. We also offer manicure and pedicure services for both young and adults with the exclusive nail colours from well known brands such as Essie, Shellac and OPI. Are there any special offers at the moment? YBL offers packages that suit every woman’s need which can be given as a special gift to friends and family. We also have combo treatments for special
Yara Jameel Salman recently launched Yara Beauty Lounge in Amwaj. Bahrain Confidential talks to her about the lounge and its delightful services.
occasions like weddings. We have Oleander for expectant mothers to retain their glow during pregnancy. Zinnia package that will help you relax with a Thai massage and Morroccan bath combined with a facial and Blow dry. Ixora, a complete body treatment from head to toe. The Passiflora includes hair treatment, spa manicure/pedicure one hour massage and spray tan. The package for the Bride to be-CASSIA, will prepare her for the biggest and most important day of her life. We also have the White Rose package that will make the bride feel very important on her big day, where she will be treated in a VIP suite of her own. YBL also has some special discount offers for Gulf Air staff, US Military Employees, DHL and private airlines Where do you see yourself in five years? What are your business targets for the new year? As a beauty enthusiast, I see myself as a well known and successful business entrepreneur and a beauty Guru. Next year, YBL is targeting branching out nationally. Is there anything else you would like to share. I would like to add that at Yara Beauty Lounge, every client is pampered. We have the most advanced technique in beauty care. We ensure only the products which suit the client skin type are used. We use sterilised equipments which stay clean in sterile sealed pouches. Our beauty lounge is managed by friendly and well skilled British and Lebanese personnel ted at Zawia 1 Amwaj Island.
act: +973 1601 0999. YBL is loca
For booking an appointment, cont 68 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Amwaj Feature
It Just Got Hotter At Chili’s!
Chicken Enchilada Pasta
Chili’s new menu offers tempting deals across Bahrain and can be enjoyed most exclusively at Amwaj Lagoon.
C
hili’s new menu offers a greater variety of South Western taste with Enchilada, Cilantro and Chipotle based dishes added for more zing. The Bahrain Confidential team headed out to Amwaj Lagoon to try the newest delicacies on the menu. The branch, launched recently, is more in step with Chili’s internationally revamped decor and emanates a modern, vibrant and fresh look. Diners can choose to sit inside the restaurant or relax in the cool breeze outside overlooking the lagoon.
Triple Dipper
70 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
With their huge variety of fajitas, burgers, sandwiches, pastas, steaks and an even greater range of tasty mocktails, there’s always something unique to suit individual tastes. As always, all the dishes come in large servings and can satisfy the biggest of appetites. Customers can get more for less as Chili’s has also reviewed and decreased some of its prices on the menu. In drinks, try out the new Strawberry Mojito, a zingy and bubbly classic mojito with a shot of strawberry syrup. And what can be more appetizing than an appetizer that serves a combo of three starters and dips? The Triple Dipper includes mouthwatering Boneless Buffalo Wings, incredible Southwestern Eggrolls and the new Texas Cheese Poppers, crisply fried rounds of flavour popping hot cheese. For entrees, one can choose from three new Southwestern pastas, the Chicken Enchilada, Chipotle Pesto and Cilantro Pesto, amazing tastes you can’t miss at any cost. Chili’s is known for introducing new flavours and has excited customers with
their latest additions. Not to worry though, all the fan favourite foods have remained on the menu and can still be enjoyed. Amwaj is the place to be and is a favourite family destination on the weekends, almost like a picnic spot. Chili’s sees a mixed crowd of expatriates and locals. All its premium products such as certified Angus beef, cheeses and other ingredients are imported from the US in order to maintain authenticity in Chili’s restaurants around the world. There are eight outlets in Bahrain, with the first one established in 1999. Chili’s aims to open new branches in Durrat and Muharraq in the future
Chili’s Amwaj, Lagoon
For delivery call the Hungerline at Tel. +973 1750 6070.
Kingdom of Bahrain’s National Day All the management and staff of C.G. Arabia WLL, the holding company of Arabian Magazines, takes this opportunity to congratulate His Majesty the King, Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa His Highness the Prime Minister, Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa His Highness the Crown Prince, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the people of Bahrain. We pledge our continuing support to the King, his Government and people, and look forward to our contributing to the prosperity of the nation both now and in years ahead.
P O Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel. +973 1782 2388 Fax. +973 1772 1722 e-mail: info@ArabianMagazines.com www.ArabianMagazines.com
Amwaj Feature “Enjoy great-tasting all-American favourites such as juicy hamburgers, hand-dipped shakes, malts and freshly-baked apple pie.”
Twist To The Ultimate Hamburger Experience
Try out the latest burgers by Johnny Rockets!
U
nwind in a 70s Americana diner and enjoy greattasting all-American favourites such as juicy hamburgers, hand-dipped shakes, malts and freshlybaked apple pie. Drop some change into tabletop jukeboxes and groove to tunes from the past. The foodies of Bahrain can experience the authentic diner feel at Johnny Rockets, nominated Best Family Restaurant in 2012. Moreover, they can try out the latest Japanese style Premium Wagyu menu which offers densely marbled rich beef burgers. Dominic Gomes, Multi-unit Manager at Johnny Rocket’s - Global Food Concepts shared what’s new on the menu. “Johnny Rockets has introduced the Wagyu Rocket Single, Wagyu Houston and Smoke House Wagyu, all three come on a special Brioche bun. New side orders have also been added to the menu. Truffle Fries are delicious truffle oil infused fries sprinkled with parsley and can be upgraded with creamy Fontina cheese,” said Dominic.
Truffle Fries
72 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Smoke House Wagyu
Houston Wagyu
Wagyu Single
The range of Wagyu burgers are made locals from around the country also come with Premium Wagyu beef patties, veggies, over to Amwaj Islands. Dominic is sure special sauces and cheeses. Johnny Rockets has been appreciated by “The diner at Amwaj Island, Lagoon is all and looks forward to the opening of a the second branch in Bahrain and is located new branch in Juffair next year in one of the trendiest places to be,” he pointed out, “customers can choose to sit For enquiries and home delivery call Amwaj in the patio seating outside, over-looking the Island Lagoon Tel. +973 1601 1199 or Seef lagoon or inside the cosy restaurant.” Al A’ali Mall Tel. +973 1756 6565. If you want to stick to the original options then one can try out Sliders, which is a combo starter of mini hotdog, chili dog and mini rocket. Choose from a range of delicious hot burger sandwiches and sides, then top it all off with a cooling Deluxe Shake. All milkshakes are made with Johnny Rocket’s hand-dipped premium vanilla ice-cream and real powdered malt. They are available in chocolate, banana, strawberry and Oreo cookies flavours. Johnny Rockets also serves a range of breakfast items in the mornings and sees many residents from around the Amwaj area who come down for breakfast and lunch. The atmosphere gets livelier in the evening when Johnny Rockets at Amwaj more expatriates and
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Amwaj Feature
Savour The True Flavours Of India At The
Curry Tree Restaurant And Café A contemporary concept Indian cuisine that was one of the first food outlets to open at the Lagoon Mall at Amwaj nearly two years ago, the Curry Tree Restaurant and Café serves traditional Indian grills, curries and Biryani plates, in addition to, a variety of coffee blends in a modern atmosphere while having a view of the beautiful lagoon. Encouraged by the extremely positive responses from our customers, the management has decided to expand its operations and have recently opened a new outlet at Prince Khalifa Park in Hidd which provides tasty and express meals to families and individuals who visit the lovely park. Going from strength to strength, the Curry Tree Restaurant and Café has put on its plate a plan to open another outlet at the food court at the Lulu Hypermarket at Hidd in the near future. The patrons at Lulu will be able to shop and enjoy scrumptious Indian cuisine under one roof. For Reservations/Home Delivery, please contact us on Tel. +973 1603 0660/1 Curry Tree Restaurant and Café 1st Floor, Entrance 6B, Lagoon Mall, Amwaj Email: curry.tree2010@gmail.com
Entrance 6B, 1st Floor, Lagoon Mall, Amwaj Islands, Muharraq. Phone/Home Delivery: 16030660/1 Email: curry.tree2010@gmail.com
Curry Tree Restaurant and Café is proud to have served the residents of Amwaj for nearly 2 years top quality Indian cosine .Our Tandoor Grills, Curries and Baryani amongst other Indian style dishes are unmatchable. Please are committed to continue our serving you at our Lagoon branch and at our newly opened outlet at Prince Khalifa Bin Salaman Park, along Prince Khalifa Causeway at Hidd , and
we look forward to seeing you at our next branch to be opened at Lulu Hypermarket, Hidd in January 2013.
74 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Travel
Edinburgh
One Of The Best Cities In The UK To Spend Christmas
W
ith the festive season upon us what’s the best way to get into the mood? How about being wrapped up in winter woollies, feeling an icy chill on your cheeks as you sip hot cocoa and watch the festive shoppers buzz past? So why don’t you visit Edinburgh which comes to life in the winter with six weeks of festive celebration? Edinburgh- the capital of Scotland is arguably one of the most picturesque cities in Europe. It has a rich cultural heritage and the landscape is rugged and stunning, a product of pre historic volcanic activity. This year the city does not disappoint as it sparkles with winter activities throughout the month of December. From bustling Christmas markets, fun fairs through to the traditional carol singing and Santa Claus roaming the streets to the delight of young children. You’ll find everything here to have a winter holiday of a lifetime.
Some of the activities available for the month of December. 1st - 24th December, 11am - 5pm The Lost Elves on Rose Street
76 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
This free festive trail starts at the Rose Street side of the Roxburghe Hotel where the Santa’s Chief Elf ‘Himself’ and Snow Fairy Sparkle have a sheet of clues to help you find Santa’s lost elves in time for Christmas. 9th - 11am - Adults £12.50 Juniors £7.50 Like a festive game of Where’s Wally, the annual Santa Run is a spectacular flurry of red and white as the fighting fit Santas of Scotland get together to raise money for a most worthy cause. For more information or to register, visit www.thesantarun.org.uk or call 01357 529 950 / 01332 521 212. 9th - 23rd December (Selected days only) Reindeer in St Andrew Square Come and visit the Reindeer between 11am and 3pm in St Andrew Square - look out and you might catch Santa visiting his Reindeer to
feed them and check up on preparations for the big day! Until 24th December Traditional German Christmas Market Edinburgh’s Traditional German Christmas Market sells a mix of classic and contemporary gifts, as well as a range of German food and drink to warm you up until Christmas Eve. You’ll find hearty sausages, fried potato cakes, crepes and German beer, and Glühwein (a special brew of mulled of wine and herbs). 8th - 16th December 2012, 10am - 6pm every day The Ethical Christmas Fair, Castle Street Make shopping extra enjoyable in the knowledge that it’s all in a good cause. Everything at the fair is made ethically and sustainably, including gifts, decorations, jewellery, food and drink. As your bags fill up, your Karma will too. For more information go to www.handupmedia.co.uk Getting There: Fly Turkish Airways The airline has reached its goal of operating a fleet of 200 aircrafts. It is presently the world’s fifth largest airline. Flights: Bahrain to Edinburgh: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Best return connections: Saturday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday
The best all inclusive prices: Economy Class: BD259 - Business Class: BD884 For more information Tel. +973 1751 6100 or online: http://www.turkishairlines.com/en-bh/
Opinion
Home Sweet Home
Rehan Ahmed gives us some great tips on safeguarding our homes and protecting them from pollutants.
E
veryone considers their home as the safest territory on earth. This unique dedicated space makes us feel relaxed and safe. Often unknowingly we, install or use items that are toxic and not safe for our health and well being. Let us check out what items are environmentally not good for us and and how can we detoxify our sacred space.
3. Avoiding Toxic Fumes: Often people burn scented and coloured candles or enjoy candle light meals. These candles may smell wonderful but emit toxic fumes and pose a real health threat. It is better to burn some natural essential oils and perfume sticks.
less time in cleaning these cooking ware. Teflon, the material that coats pots and pans in order to make them non-stick, is a proven carcinogenic. For cooking, the best options are stainless steel or cast iron cookware or ceramic coated cookware.
4. Avoid Plastics: Plastic is everywhere in our home and has adverse impact on our health and the environment. Studies have
6. Use Safe and Healthy Material: Household cleaning products, such as surface cleaners, dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents and sanitizing gels are considered as essential in our homes. However, many of these products contain harmful ingredients that can irritate our eyes, cause respiratory problems and even lead to serious health impacts. Use natural and inorganic cleaning options like baking soda and white distilled vinegar.
1. Keeping Shoes and Footwear Outside: Don’t bring shoes inside the home. Have a small rack or cupboard for putting in your shoes. Taking off the shoes at the door is more than just a lesson in good manners. It keeps away all pollutants such as dirt, dust, mud, chemicals etc. Placing mats at the doorways will help in keeping the pollution outside. 2. Practice Ventilating the Home: Indoor air quality is a serious problem affecting millions of homes in all continents. The average family produces ten to 50 liters of moisture a day from cooking, bathing, washing dishes and other activities. A house that doesn’t breathe can trap this moisture and develop humidity damage and mold issues. In addition, without adequate ventilation, carbon monoxide can collect in your home. Construction materials, insulation, furniture, carpeting, padding, paints, solvents, household chemicals and household cleaners, drawn by this moist atmosphere, combine to contaminate the indoor air which then stays trapped inside the house. Irrespective of the location of your residence, efficiently ventilate your home. A poorly ventilated home is prone to rot and the occupants are more likely to suffer from allergies and other respiratory ailments. Efficient air exchange can best be achieved through controlled mechanical ventilation such as ensuring all fans vent are outside the home and having a proper exhaust in the kitchen. Use of artificial air fresheners is not recommended as they contain harmful chemicals and phthalates, which are known to disrupt hormones.
78 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Eng. Rehan Ahmed
“A poorly ventilated home is prone to rot and the occupants are more likely to suffer from allergies and other respiratory ailments.” shown that BPA (Bisphenol A), a compound found in plastic containers, bottles, shower curtains and array of other plastic products, is an endocrine disrupter which affects our hormone system. Instead of going for plastic, use glass containers, stainless steel waterbottles and natural fabrics in order to keep your body BPA free. 5. Don’t Stick with Non-Stick: Health conscious people often opt for cooking with less oil in non-stick pans considering it takes
7. Safe Use of Electronic Gadgets: With each passing day the electronic gadgets in our homes are increasing. The health impacts of EMR (electromagnetic radiation) have been a main consideration. Wi-Fi, cell phones, smart phones, iPhones, iPads and microwaves all emit EMR. How safe are these gadgets are still being researched. It is best to be safe and cautious. We need to use these electronic gadgets in a more responsible manner. Turn off and disconnect all these gadgets and WiFi connections when not in use.
8. Make Your Own Mulch: Composting is the smart way to dispose of leaves, yard clippings, selected food scraps, and other organic wastes. Instead of burdening landfills, you can produce rich nutrients to fertilize your garden the natural way. Make it a habit to recycle your glass, cans, cardboard, and newspapers. Take suitable and sustainable environmental measures which you can and certainly you will feel its impact on your health and surroundings
Rehan Ahmed is Head of Waste Disposal Unit, Directorate of Environmental Control, Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife, Bahrain. Email: rehan900@gmail.com
Society
Society
If you don’t spot a picture of yourself or your friends on our Society Pages, you can always check our online newsletter which is updated regularly. Visit www.FashionArabia.net
Halloween Party at Bizarre Lounge, Kempinski
The Halloween Party was held at Bizarre Lounge, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre on 1st November.
Natalia, Snejna and Ibrahim
Cameron, Clothilde and Zeina
Cormelia, Francoise and Florian Dario, Natasha and Zaid
Sulthan
Leaon and Dominique
Gladys and Vincent
Immanuel and Maka
Fahad, Snejna, Mohammed and Natalia
Michele and Shirley
Diwali Dinner at Crowne Plaza
Crowne Plaza held their Diwali Dinner at the Spices restaurant on 15th November.
Daxa, Sunita, Dash and Karina
Rupal and Kalpesh
Aish and Rubesh
Minal and Raj
Samir and Deepika
Krishna and Krishna Raj
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 79
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Cathay Pacific Team Welcomes New Country Manager
Cathay Pacific Airways staff from Bahrain and Saudi Arabia gathered in October to bid farewell to Daniel Cheung and welcome Brian Tsoi as new Country Manager Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. General Manager South Asia, Middle East and Africa, Tom Wight and his successor Charlie Steward Cox also attended the event.
Cathay Pacific Airways staff from Bahrain and Saudi Arabia staff with Brain Tsoi, Daniel Cheung, Tom Wright and Charlie S Cox
Samamtha, Hassan Kanso and Javed
Majeed, Tom Wright and Reggie
Daniel, Chairle, Samantha, Tom and Brian
Angelo, Brian Yuen and Mukund
Ossama, Fatima, Brian and Roopa
Ravi, Wilson and FT
Relaunch of Primavera
The relaunch of the Italian restaurant Primavera was held at the The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa on 23rd October.
h
relaunc
Hulya, Soha and Nahad
Paul and Megan
Kaoru, Claude and Cloudia
Mark and Thailand Ambassador, HE Vichai Varasirikul
Eyad and Marcia Yvett, Gemma and Karen
Olivier and Christiana
80 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Madline and Paul
Jose and Corinne
Hassan and Nicolas
Hind and Mahmood
Salah and Fatima
Nick and Oana
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Ford Business Associates Meet
The Ford Business Associates meet was held at the Dragon Hotel in Amwaj on 23rd October. Hilal
Venugopal
Victoria, Mohammed and Nermin
Sreedhar and Naresh
Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Muthawa and Ali
Declan McCluskey, Jehad, Anil and Sandeep Mathur
Mohammed, Govind, Sudip, Dananjay and Thomas
John and Anna
Hassan, Jehan and Jehad
Sunil, Chandran and Arun
Allan and Lorna
Golden Tulip Bahrain’s Seafood Team Night
The Seafood theme Night was held on 17th October at the Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, The Golden Tulip Bahrain.
Jehan
Golden Tulip managemant and staff
Titova and Julia Abdul Rahim
Ruth and Milan
Camellia and Aloysius
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 81
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Opening Ceremony of Casa Terrace
The opening ceremony of Casa Terrace was held on 13th October at the Mercure Grand Hotel, Seef.
Patricia Ahmed, Malik and Feras Arabian Magazine’s Jehan Mohamed
Josefina, Tareq, Waleed, Eilatevina and Michael
Mercure Grand Hotel Seef’s General Manager, Yasser Bahaa
Tamer, Landon, Nesleg, Somi and Timitar
Pauline, Jean and Boutina
Zallaq Resort Company (ZRC) Chairman, Jasim Abdulrahman Al Zayani
George, Manish and Saehin
Afaf
Gina
Mahdi and Ahmed
Grand Opening of Best Western Plus
The Grand opening of the Best Western Plus was held on 14th October at Juffair.
Tarun, Gandi, Amitab and Ali
Marla and Michelle
Amir, Mohammed and Motaz Saraha, Achsah, Sija, Vijayalakshmi and Priya
Mehken, John, Nela and Go
Caran, Omana, Reeja, Soumya and Aditya
Ambroshia and Jefferson Ohood and Hisham Paul, Avril, Antonella, Alex and Lorenzo
82 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
“All Eyes on You at MODA Mall” Featuring Joelle Mardinian
MODA Mall, unveiled the unique fashion campaign “All Eyes on You at MODA Mall”. The highlight of the fashion campaign is the unique ‘Styling Lounge’ which was officially inaugurated by leading TV beauty expert and prominent make-up artist, Joelle Mardinian on 17th30th October at Styling Lounge, MODA Mall.
Reem, Suzy, Abir and Joelle
Maison de Joelle Founder and Owner, Joelle Mardinian
Sondos and Jehan
Talia, Windy and Victoria
Nada and Mai Sondos and Abir
Kevin and Firas
Fatima and Ramla
AA Bin Hindi’s Premium Launch of KIA’s Flagship Sedan QUORIS Invitation
The Premium Launch of KIA’s flagship Sedan QUORIS Invitation was held at Bahrain City Centre on 8th November.
AA Bin Hindi President and CEO Ahmed bin Hindi (second from the left), South Korean Republic’s Ambassador, His Excellency Jong Ha Yu (fifth from the left) with AA Bin Hindi management and guests
Lulwa, Deema, AA Bin Hindi President and CEO Ahmed bin Hindi and Abdulla
Mohammed bin Hindi and Nick
Hojong Rya, Ahmed bin Hindi, South Korean Republicís Ambassador, His Excellency Jong Ha Yu with Mohammed bin Hindi, Mo’men Shawqi Ahmed, Said Kamal and Habib
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 83
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Mala Kumar Diwali Party
Mala Kumar, wife of Indian Ambassador to Bahrain, HE Mohan Kumar hosted a Diwali Party at her residence in Saar on 7th November.
Dr Malhothra, Mala Kumar, Raj Damani, Yagna and Yajur
Mr and Mrs Kamlesh Kasala with Indian Ambassador to Bahrain HE Mohan Kumar
Mahmood, HE Mohan Kumar, Mala Kumar, Nurhayati and Malaysian Ambassador to Bahrain, HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad
Lakshman, Johanne, Andi, Mala, Preeti, Iro and Ron
Mala Kumar, Suhasini and Srinivas
Radha Mohan, Uma, Mala Kumar, Bonnie, Nasreen and Rocio
Mala Kumar and Indian Ambassador HE Mohan Kumar
Irresistible India
The Irresistible India event was held at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea And Spa Hotel Manama on 15th November under the patronage of the Indian Embassy. The evening was organised by La Bonn V events.
Lisa, Chris, Lia, Becky, Diane, Savi and Andrea
Hashim, Liliane and Irwin
Adhinava Dance Company
84 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Yasmine and Mohammed
Zaid and wife
HE Alberto Vecchi and Romina
Suja and Joseph
Pallawi, Radhika, Tareq, Sanjay and Mala Kumar
Yanne, Lisa, Sajila, Saif, Abla and Kevin
Abdul Kareem Bucheri and wife
Bahrain
B.I.C.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON
速
ACADEMY OF MOTORCYCLING
For Harley速 certified courses at the Bahrain International Circuit catering to new riders and veteran bikers please call +973-39982039 and speak to Imran or email: motorcycle.academy@harley-davidson-sa.com Harley-Davidson速 Bahrain Monther Al-Mutlaq Trading Est., Building 14, Road 54, Muqabah (Block No) 505, Budaiya, Kingdom of Bahrain. Tel: +973 17 599006, Fax: +973 17 599050 www.harley-davidson-bahrain.com 息 H-D 2012. Harley, Harley-Davidson and the Bar & Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC.
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Sofitel’s Mexican Food and Cultural Festival
The Mexican Food & Cultural Festival was held at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa on 1st November. Lea and Islam Rashida and Maryam
Fares Yactine, Sofitel General Manager Bert Plas with staff and guests
Klai and Omar Fares, Jassim Zayani, Jehan, Dr Daffar Al Omran, HE Arturo Trejo and French Ambassador to Bahrain, HE Christian Testot
Modeleine and William
Farid and Amilia
Deborah, Alicia, Sabina and Jo
Thomas and Sherina
Sarah and Moe
Maissa and Laila
Lucky Shopper Wins BD3,000 with Fall for Fashion at Bahrain City Centre
‘Fall for Fashion’ at Bahrain City Centre gave shoppers the chance to win a shopping spree worth BD3,000 in GiftCards, to revamp their shoe and handbag collection. Many entrants were in the draw to win the grand prize, having entered a fun Trivia Card game, with clues found at the shoe and bag display at the Central Galleria. Hanan Al Khayat was the lucky winner of the grand prize and will have a chance to shop till she drops for the latest shoes, handbags, and fall fashions.
Hanan Al Khayat and Bahrain City Centre Marketing Manager, Lori Cunningham with Ahmed
Inauguration of Al Noureen Fashion’s Fifth Outlet in Manama
Al Noureen Fashion’s fifth outlet was inaugurated in Manama near Last Chance Shopping Mall. The Outlet was inaugurated by Zara Jauhar wife of Pakistani Ambassador, HE Jauhar Saleem.
Zara Jauhar in ribbon cutting ceremony with HE Jauhar Saleem, Noureen and Naeem
86 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Zara Jauhar (Fourth from left) with Pakistan Ambassador, HE Jauhar Saleem, Eng. Rehan Ahmed and guests
HE Jauhar Saleem, Zara Jauhar with Noureen and Naeem
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Al Safir Staff Outing
The Al Safir Staff outings were organized by the company to the Bahrain City Centre, the Dolphin Resort, Bahrain International Circuit and the Al Areen Park and Wildlife.
Ireen, Riz and Nimfa
Al Safir staff outing
Outing 1: Bahrain City Centre cinema
Outing 1: Bahrain City Centre cinema
Outing 2: Al Areen Wildlife Park and Bahrain International Circuit (BIC)
Outing 2: Al Areen Wildlife Park and Bahrain International Circuit (BIC)
Outing 3: The Dolphin Resort
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 87
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Italian Brunch at Cucina
Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC) Board Director and Acting General Manager, Christophe Marziale
The Italian Brunch promotion kicked off at Cucina Italiana, Juffair on 9th November.
BFLC Board Director and Acting General Manager, Christophe Marziale, Chef Fortunato Giordano with Cucina Italiana management and staff
Michele and Marco Esposto Ron Peter and Christophe Marziale
Cynthia, Mara, Chloie, Melody and JP
Berna
Bennigan’s Holloween “Spooky Spirits”
The Spooky Spirits- Bennigans Halloween event was held on 31st October.
Mariel, Liz and Mary Ren and Jose Ralph and Heike
Zhave and Samantna
Gail, Cj, Julian and Stephanie
Mövenpick Hotel’s Christmas Cookies Baking
Editors and media partners were invited to bake Christmas cookies with Mövenpick Executive Chef on 6th November.
Members of the press with Mövenpick Hotel management
Nizar, Alfredo and Sumaya with the chefs
Beat Diabetes Walkathon - Join the Walk
The Beat Diabetes Walkathon - Join the walk event was held at the Dohat Arad Park, Muharraq on 9th November.
Agnes, Jovie, Diane, Malyn, Jeneth, Shiela and Mina
88 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
habeer, Samad, Abbas, Prijit, Ligesh, Sreejith and Nikesh
Bahrain World Trade Center Tel: +973 1752 2733 or +973 3699 9102 www.olivermaki.com
Fine Contemporary Fusion Japanese Cuisine
Bahrain World Trade Center Tel: +973 1752 2733 or +973 3699 9102 www.olivermaki.com
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Azadea Appreciation Month Dinner
The Azadea Appreciation Month Dinner was held at the Elite Resort and Spa on 18th November.
Natasha, Abdalla and Dalia
Fadhi, Jamal, Ramya, Jawad Al Hawaj, Pierre Ahmed Al Hawaj and Hussain Al Hawaj
Alia, Luminita and Fatima
Michel, Mohammed and Osmat
Gemma, Nada, Emily and Zain
Marawan, Virginie, Eman and Arshad
Rona and Ponciano
David, Ghassan and Simon
Paul, Aryan and Susan
Marriott’s Spirit to Serve Campaign (Cleaning Day)
Kaitham and Mariam
The Mariott Executive Apartments – Manama organized their “Spirit to Serve Campaign-Cleaning day” activity at the Qal’at Abu Mahir (Muharraq) on 17th November.
Zoia, Fatima and Jane
Marwan and Oriadna Ortega
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Marriott’s ‘Spirit to Serve’ campaign team
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
10th Anniversary of the Filipino-American Association of Bahrain
The Filipino-American Association of Bahrain held a gala night to celebrate their 10th year Anniversary and induction of its new set of officers on 5th October, held at InterContinental Regency Bahrain.
Filipino-American Association
Guests
Haya and Anas Younis Shanaah
Kuh and Jubbie
Tats and Katz
2013 Filipino-American Association officers
Moonriver Dancers Group
Mirza and Ronald Henderson
Edwin and Ding
Lito, Tag and Emil
Official Opening and Unveiling of the Fall for Fashion Display
The launch of the Fall for Fashion campaign and the official unveiling of the exquisite fashion display, featuring a glamorous collection of the hottest shoes and handbags - and a must-see giant replica of a designer shoe made by Anas Younis Shanaah, the talent behind the ‘aennis eunis’ brand was held on 20th September.
Dana, Anas Younis Shanaah and Saks Fifth Avenue Sales and Operations Manager, Mark Asfahani
Pooja and Anas Younis Shanaah
Arunothai, Cat, Samar and Aysha
Luzy and Anas
Punt Roma Sponsors Think Pink Event
May and Anas
Punt Roma sponsored the fourth hole of the Ladies Golf Tournament at the Royal Golf Club in Riffa on 10th October. The event was organized by Think Pink Bahrain for the eight consecutive year. Over 80 women from the Royal Golf Club members as well as other female visitors, including Punt Roma’s loyal customers, attended this event.
Punt Roma sponsored Think Pink Bahrain
92 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Ladies Golf Tournament attendees
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Capital Club Bahrain Marks Third Anniversary
Bahrain’s premier private members-only business club celebrated its third anniversary, with a high profile celebration throughout its twostorey penthouse setting atop the prestigious Bahrain Finacial Harbour’s East Tower.
Tareq Wafa and Ashraf Faisal, Steve, Kerry and Mufeed
Moe, Andream Nandita, George and Ziad
Togon and Noora
Rocio, Lena, Claudia, Leylan and Marion
Osama Al Absi and Shaikh Fawaz Al Khalifa
Waris, Yasser and Adnan
HE Mohammed Ali Siraj and wife
Sewi, Maria, Mohammed Saleh and Ali Abdulla
Christopher and Guy
Shorooq and Bayan
Dina and Zeid
Andrew and Sumaya
Andrea and Neena
Moe, Rogier, Lucia and Mark
American Mission Hospital “It’s A Small World” International Costume Parade
American Mission Hospital (AMH) hosted an international costume parade at Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel on 18th October.
International Costume Parade participants
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Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Mövenpick Hotel’s Vietnamese Food Festival
The Vietnamese Food Festival was held at the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain on 11th November.
Kim, Rogier and Kjell
Son Thieu Tan Dung, Silvia, Lina, HE Nguyen Thi Bao Tam and Heinz
Marion, Nabil and Claudia Hardt
Rina
Ibrahim, Abdulrahman and Jamal
Sama and Paul
Nizar El Lakiss, HE Nguyen Thi Bao Tam and Sumaya Dashti
Son Thie Tan Dung, Son Nguyen, Kim Troung, Alh Tuan, Nguyen Hoang and Nguyen Thu
Cpt Amin, Kim, Elis, Orlanda and Bennedita
Bushido’s Cirque Du Soir
Bushido held the Cirque Du Soir at their premises on 15th November.
Debbie and Jenny
Audrey and Sofian
Malissa, Tiffany, Catharine and Foxy
Raisa and Damien
Rogier and Goldie Alia, Luminita and Fatima Coly, Ashley, Apple, Laura, Sam and Lie
Susy and Emy
Ahlam and Sukaina
96 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Nadia, Claudia, Kiran, Nabeel and Angale
Oven and Johane
Kristian, Wendy, Ariadna and Tanja
Nataly, Wiebke and Juliana
Maybach
- Icons Of Luxury Join The Upper Echelon Of Luxury Eyewear With Maybach There are things which will always fascinate us- because they are rare, because they are beautiful or because they are things which give us more than we demand of them, individuality for example, or perfection, or simply the awareness of owning something unique.
are intricately worked along with exquisite materials and outstanding design. The name and the standards of the exclusive Maybach brand are today carried by premium eyewear and accessories. An exclusiveness appreciated by a genuine connoisseur.
The name of Maybach has stood for exceptional luxury for more than eighty years. And it stands for the very few things which are permitted to carry the Maybach name. Maybach Eyewear from IVKO GmbH is one of them.
Wilhelm Maybach and his son Karl Maybach laid the cornerstone for a brand which has today grown into a legend. The most precise handcrafting and love of detail distinguish the characteristic style, appealing to all the senses. The models of the eyeglass collection from Maybach Eyewear unite traditional and modern aspects and have a firm place in the luxury eyewear sector.
As a high-end automobile brand, for decades Maybach has symbolized the most exacting demands on quality and luxury. Characteristics
These sought-after frames are created using only the most select materials, such as combinations of fine woods, leather, titanium and 18 karat solid white, yellow and rose gold, and, if desired, diamonds. These materials are painstakingly worked, step by step, using the best of German handcrafting techniques. The elegant designs pay homage to the individuality of the wearer. For more information, Tel. +973 1725 3397.
KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN
MANAMA - 1725 3397 | MODA MALL - 1753 4998 | SEEF MALL - 1758 0565 BAHRAIN CITY CENTER - 1717 9012, 1717 9317 | BUKAWARA - 1777 4061 | AL AALI COMPLEX - 1758 1085
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Italian-Bahraini Friendship Association (IBFA) Dinner Event
The Italian-Bahraini Friendship Association (IBFA) dinner event was held at the Pashawat Restaurant, The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa on 12th November.
Homa, Wajeeh Baqer, Sameera and Jehan Enrica, Tiziana and Pauline
Ambassador of the Republic of Italy, HE Alberto Vecchi, Dr Dhaffer Al Omran, Romina and Ahmed
Maria, Francesco Agus and Monica
Simone and Elena
Elenora
Giuseppe, Dr Bijan and Andrea
Batelco CommTech for SME’s Seminar & Forum
The Batelco CommTech for SME’s Seminar & Forum was held at the Gulf Hotel Convention Centre on 5th November.
Bradsun and Jing Songren
Shaikh Hamad bin Abdulla Al Khalifa in ribbon cutting ceremony
Rashid Abdulla, Mohammed Al Qaed and Shaikh Hamad bin Abdulla Al Khalifa
Nahla and Nuha
Racha, Adam and Adel Karim
Osama and Saber
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Sadiq and Nasreen
Ahmed and Mohammed
Attendees
Rashid Abdulla
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
The K Hotel’s Champions Sports Lounge Halloween Event
The Spooky Halloween event at Champions Sports Lounge, The K Hotel was held on 31st October. Faith and Dino
Pancha and Sunny
Pancha, Ayleen, Sunny and Ali
Flipper, Jamie and Fritz David and Sandra
EK Kanoo Launch of the All New Lexus
The Launch of the All New Lexus was held at the Dana Hall, Gulf Hotel Convention Centre on 6th November.
Fuad Kanoo and HE Hassan Fakhro with other VIP’s
Rebecca, Jacob, Nick, Sushmita, Sukesh and Zaid
Basher, Khalid Adeeb and Sreenivasan
Fayez, Abdulrahman and Waleed
Hisham, Hassan Amin and Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa
Fawaz, Fuad Kanoo, HE Hassan Fakhro, Bahzad and Ismail
Essam Bassil, Gurucharan and Ghassan
Takayaki and Hayato
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 99
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Elevation Burger’s Anniversary
Elevation Burger celebrated their anniversary at their Seef outlet on 18th November.
Ahmed and Ali
Amal
Elevation Burger staff
National Motor Company Launch the All New Chevrolet Trailblazer
The launch of the All New Chevrolet Trailblazer was held at National Motor Company on 10th November.
Noor
National Motors Team
Martino with models
Nermin, Reem, Noor, Rana and Sarah
100 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Adel Hubail and Simon Austin
David, Ghassan and Simon
Nermeen and Reem
Rana and Martino
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
YK Almoayyed & Son Launch of All New Nissan Altima
The All New Nissan Altima was launched at the Bahrain City Centre on 8th November.
Sethu, Rohit and Hussain
Diana and Natalia with Nico Club members Vinod and Mohanthy
Rahat Jalal and Paul Baker
Salam Aitani
Sethu, Mj, Carlos, Ziad and Faisal
Radhiya
Ian, Anwar, Sadiq Al Oraibi, Duaij Al Noaimi and Ziad
Abrar and Aqsa
Signing Ceremony Between HSBC and Gulf Air Offer
The signing Ceremony between HSBC & Gulf Air was held at the HSBC office on 7th November.
Esam Abdulla Hammadi and Shakofa Asghar
Madina Al Balushi, Esam Abdulla Hammadi, Shakofa Asghar and Mahmood Al Ali
Lost Paradise of Dilmun’s Acrobalance Show
LPOD celebrated Eid Al Adha with an amazing show featuring the Acrobalance show from Romania held last 25th Oct. to 7th Nov.
Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD) management with the Acrobalance from Romania
Acrobalance during their show
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 101
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Euro Motors Launch of All New Range Rover
The launch of All New Range Rover was held at The Island, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa on 11th November.
Rashid, Hamad, Majid, Yousif, Ahmed, Ahmed and Nasser
Basel Hajj, Mohammed Zayani and Ibrahim Aamir
Ala Maki and Shaikh Jabir bin Ali Al Khalifa
Mazen, Zayed, Yousif and Jehad
Saheb Ahmed and Ahmed
Sherin, Hussam and Doaa
Samer Majali and British Ambassador, HE Ian Lindsay
Rami, Jay, Jehan and Gaurav
Gilbert, Nasser and Antorne
Kempinski Anniversary Raffle Draw
Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre hosted an Anniversary Raffle Draw throughout September to celebrate their First Anniversary. Prizes ranged from a three-night stay for two in Kempinski Hotel Gravenbruch, Frankfurt inclusive of KLM flight tickets to Afternoon Tea for two in T-Spoon. The winners received their prizes on 11th October.
Grand Prize winner, Nawal A Aziz
Prize Winner with Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel and KLM representative
Elite Cake Mixing
The Elite Cake mixing event was held on 23rd October at the Al Noor Tent, Elite Resort & Spa.
Media partners participating in cake mixing event
102 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Anurag and Savio
Nick Cooksey
Pets
Home! Looking For A
If only animals could talk, you’d be hearing their sad, pitiful stories. But since they can’t, we are giving these adorable creatures a voice. One way or another, they have been hurt and abused in ways you would not imagine a human doing to another creature, and yet the fact remains that these animals end up abandoned and left for dead all over the Kingdom. If you’re thinking of buying a pet, please don’t - instead, adopt one today.
Brutus Trix
Booster
Frankie Felix Gizmo
Waffles Zef
Cameo Scout
Rinky
Splash
BSPCA Animals Interested in Adopting?
Visit the BSPCA in Animal Welfare Centre in Askar, see www.bspca.org for directions. Open for adoption viewing Sunday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday and Saturday, 9am to 1pm. Tel. +973 1759 1231.
Tony The Dogfather
Timid Sunshine
Oliver Twist
Faces
Solang
Sall Luke Bruse
Graytail
Jigsaw
Lulu
Interested in Adopting?
Call Tony ‘The Dogfather’ Waters on Tel. +973 3962 9889 or visit www.dogfatherbahrain.com
Kitty
Do you have animal concerns? Need a vet? Call Dr Nonie Coutts Tel. +973 1724 5515. December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 103
Cars
General Manager, Stephen Harris
Racing To Excellence Since 1908 Mr Stephen Harris, Jaguar Car’s new General Manager in Bahrain discusses the qualities and services that set them apart.
M
r Stephen Harris, General Manager at Jaguar Bahrain has over 25 years’ experience in the automotive industry and is delighted to represent Jaguar Bahrain; the iconic British car brand that began operations in 1908. Mohammed Jalal & Sons Automotive division has been the sole distributor and agency for Jaguar since 1982, and will continue its longstanding partnership with the
104 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
luxury automotive manufacturer by supporting the brand’s expansion plans in Bahrain. Stephen’s experience working in the Middle East automotive industry has equipped him with an acute awareness of the unique culture and what drives customer satisfaction and awareness levels of the Jaguar brand. His focus going forwards will be to upgrade Jaguar Bahrain’s service to a standard of excellence, whilst implementing industry best practise. “I have set very ambitious targets for 2013. My priority is to ensure my staff and every department offers exceptional, best in class customer service. Jaguar is an iconic brand
Cars
“Our service should set us apart so that we are known and recommended as the best in Bahrain.” that has always enjoyed a loyal following in Bahrain, and, our service should set us apart so that we become a reference point for automotive customer service excellence and are recommended by customers in Bahrain,” he commented. Our management team at Mohammed Jalal & Sons has recently undergone a new training program, and the sales team will also receive brand and selling techniques training from experts at from Jaguar’s UK headquarters. Stephen aims to offer the same level of customer service in Bahrain as is offered in London and New York. Jaguar Bahrain has also introduced exclusive services such as collecting customer’s cars from the airport when they are leaving on a trip so their Jaguar can be serviced during their absence. Similar to valet parking, the client directly calls Jaguar to collect the car from the airport, and it is then returned on the day they arrive home. Another convenient service is offered to those who come by car to Bahrain and stay over for the weekend. Their cars can be collected from the hotel and serviced at Jaguar’s body shop which is open on Fridays and then conveniently returned before the client leaves. The iconic Jaguar brand claims to be the most prestigious brand in the world with a rich heritage. Jaguar is a founder member of the sports car segment with a rich sporting bloodline stretching over 75 years and encompassing some of the most beautiful, thrilling and desirable cars ever built. Stephen highlighted some of Jaguar’s most exquisite qualities, “Everybody recognizes a Jaguar. It’s like walking into a
“Just because we’re in the Middle East, doesn’t mean we treat our customers any different.”
boutique and seeing a product for the first time, but you’ve definitely heard of it many times before. Advanced engineering is part of our heritage and 2012 sees the 60th anniversary of Jaguar’s development of the disc brake for automotive use, and ten years since the marque introduced aluminium monocoque technology to its modern range; technology today used on both the XJ and XK. The current line-up focuses
WS
IE REV CAR
Jaguar XF
• Dramatic design changes • Bi-function HID xenon headlamps incorporate LED daytime running lights with a distinctive ‘J-Blade’ signature. • Three discrete front bumper and lower rear valance treatments differentiate between variants. • Tail lamps are now LED for stop, tail and direction indicator functions. • Refreshed exterior complemented by new alloy wheel choices and paint colours. • Intelligent Stop/Start technology. • New 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox with optimised response rates, shift quality and efficiency. • Upgraded interior with new seats, instrument panel and optional 1200W Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system.
on the Jaguar hallmarks of innovation and luxury, with advanced technology and stellar workmanship evident thoroughout the model range.” he concluded. Currently on offer at Jaguar Bahrain are life time deals on a limited number of 2012 Jaguar XF and XJ models For a test drive visit the showroom in Sitra or call, Tel. +973 1770 7070.
IEWS
REV CAR
Jaguar XJ
• Pioneering lightweight aluminium construction delivers superior agility and economy • 3.0-litre petrol V6 engine • New Rear Seat Comfort package is available on both wheelbase variants and includes electric recline, lumbar adjustment and massage functions. • Technology is seamlessly integrated throughout the car and managed via an innovative dual-view central Touch-screen. • New Executive Package allows the long-wheelbase derivative to function more effectively as a mobile business centre. • Optional Illumination Package offers ambient lighting effects • New interior colour combinations
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 105
“ c i
Cars
2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Special Introductory Prices on the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee, delivered with more refinement and features that can be appreciated on the road and off.
S
ince its introduction, the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee has captured more than 30 awards from an array of opinion-leading organisations making it the most awarded SUV ever. Its latest accolades come from the Texas Auto Writers’ Association (TAWA) who named the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee as its “SUV of Texas”, while a group of journalists and elite athletes got together to choose the 2012 Grand Cherokee as their “Luxury Off-road SUV” in the ‘Active Lifestyle Vehicle’ (ALV) awards in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. “With the tremendous attention to detail that has been paid to smoothness, quietness and refinement, the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers fantastic levels of comfort and luxury,” said Godwin D’Cruz, Sales & Marketing Manager at Ahmed Zayani & Sons. “The Grand Cherokee’s design is lean and agile, with large wheels and a wide track emphasizing its powerful, capable stance. Refinements throughout the Grand Cherokee’s spacious interior create an environment that exudes quality and
precision, as well as comfort.” Mechanical changes for the 2013 model year include a revised automatic transmission for V8 models that allows for six speeds when shifted in manual mode, and an electrohydraulic power steering system on V6
models. Both new features allow for better performance and everyday drivability with improved efficiency. The combination of Grand Cherokee’s Quadra-Lift air suspension system and the Jeep Selec-Terrain traction control system
lets drivers choose the 4x4 setting for the optimum experience on all terrains. The 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee also features the award-winning 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 engine. This flexible-fuel 3.6-litre V6 engine is standard and delivers 290 horsepower (216 kW) and 260 lb. ft. (353 Nm) of torque at 4,800 rpm. Jeep Grand Cherokee includes more than 45 safety and security features and is certified as a ‘Top Safety Pick’ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include electronic stability control (ESC), electronic roll mitigation (ERM), four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) with rough-road detection, fourwheel brake traction control system, remote keyless entry, express up/down windows for driver and front-seat passenger, seat-belt pretensioners, Trailer-sway Control, which is standard on Limited and Overland and available on Laredo models. Built on 70 years of heritage, Jeep is an authentic SUV brand with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys and provides owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence
Call or visit M/s. Ahmed Zayani & Sons WLL, Zinj, Shaikh Salman Highway or call, Tel. +973 1723 8822 / +973 3684 8944 for further details.
106 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Cars
S W E N R CA
From the latest to the greatest, find out all about what’s new in the automotive industry right here on this page.
Sixt wins “Best Car Rental Company in the World” Award
Prestigious New York based magazine “Premier Traveler” has awarded Sixt rent a car with the 2012 “Best Car Rental Company in the World” award in Los Angeles, USA after more than 10,000 “Premier Traveler” readers participated in a survey posted online. Sixt was founded in 1912 in Munich, Germany becoming one of the first car rental and mobility service providers in the world. Today Sixt is present in over 100 countries in all continents offering the finest vehicle selection in the market. Germany-based Sixt, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, making it Europe’s oldest car rental company. In Bahrain, Sixt rent a car provides unique fleet, for local & International short term, long term rental, leasing and limousine services. It boasts an impressive young fleet of luxury cars comprising leading and reputed brands and range of models. It presents customer-friendly rental packages and superior quality international standards services. For further information call the Sixt showroom. Exhibition Road, Tel. +973 7711 770. Bahrain International Airport, Tel. +973 1732 9338. Juffair, Tel. +973 1771 8191.
Usain Bolt, the world’s fastest man, is taking his passion Athlete Usain Bolt receives for speed and performance, Certification and his desire to help others, of Donation and applying them to charity. from Nissan A unique 2013 model year “Bolt Gold” GT-R will go to the highest bidder in a global online charity auction to be held on eBay til December 2nd. The highest bidder will become the owner of the one-of-a-kind ‘Bolt Gold’ GT-R, a 2013 model year Nissan GT-R painted in gold colour. All proceeds from the charity auction will benefit the Usain Bolt Foundation, which was established to support educational and cultural opportunities for children and young people in Bolt’s home country of Jamaica. The car will feature a gold plate embossed with Bolt’s signature and his autograph. Usain Bolt teamed up with Nissan in June 2012 as a brand ambassador, and he recently became the company’s honorary “Director of Excitement” for the new Nissan “What IF_” global brand campaign. The car will be auctioned on eBay Motors please go to www.NissanGoldGTRAuction.com
an ‘Bolt Gold’ Niss uction GT-R Charity A to Benefit Usain n Bolt Foundatio
“Bolt Gold” GT-R
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 107
Cars
Octavia And Fabia By Skoda Discover cool December offers from Ahmed Zayani & Sons!
OCTAVIA
The Octavia is Skoda’s mid- size sedan that is available in two body styles- sedan with a glass lift gate and as a station wagon. From the front, the Octavia seems to be smiling albeit with a hint of aggressiveness via the angular fog lights and two piece- split radiator grille, giving the Octavia a very unique and individualistic character that sets it apart from any other car on the road. The impressive design touches continue towards the side of the car, with the 16 inch 6- spoke alloy wheels shod in high performance tires harking at the superb
Skoda Fabia
handling and fluent dynamism that the new Octavia has to offer. The side mirrors with integrated turn - indicator lamps are sublimely styled to afford the best aerodynamic properties while being large enough to provide the driver a great view of either side without any hint of a blind- spot. The highlight of the Skoda Octavia are its engine and transmission- the new Octavia comes equipped with a 1.6 litre engine that’s mated to a 6- speed AT gearbox, which is a first for a car in this price range. This translates into an unparalleled driving experience with exhilarating acceleration as this 4 door sedan can accelerate from standstill to a 100km/h in just 7.8 seconds. Such power, combined with best in-class fuel economy makes the Skoda Octavia a pretty formidable contender in the ever popular mid-size car segment.
FABIA
The Skoda Fabia has undergone a subtle-yetrefreshing face-lift, bringing the fascia more in-line with the rest of the Skoda line-up. The 1.6 litre I-4 engine is extremely torquey, mated to a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic gearbox, which also allows the driver to shift gears manually via a Tiptronic manual mode. On the road the Skoda Fabia is an absolute experience to drive as the car glides over the tarmac smoothing out even the harshest of bumps while still managing to provide impressive feedback to the driver- an interesting fact considering the condition of the roads in Bahrain today and a great embodiment of the excellent suspension tuning imbibed in the Fabia. The interior of the Fabia is super quiet with very minimal road, engine or wind noise- if any at all.
Special Prices for the Skoda Fabia start at BD5,200 (with a package) onwards while the Skoda Octavia starts at BD7,600. For further information or to book a test drive, call Ahmed Zayani & Sons on Tel. +973 1723 8822 / +973 3380 8348. Skoda Octavia
108 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Motoring
110 Years On The Road
Check out new models and anniversary editions of select Harley-Davidson motorcycles!
H
arley-Davidson rolls into its 110th model year with a line of authentic American motorcycles that includes Anniversary Editions of select Harley-Davidson motorcycle models and a restyled Dyna Street Bob model in its new Hard Candy Custom collection. The Harley-Davidson Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) offers two new models, the CVO Breakout, a high-performance Softail model with exciting new finish options, and the CVO Road King, fitted with an innovative vented windshield and high-output audio system. Returning for 2013 with new custom features and finishes are the CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide and the CVO Road Glide Custom. While the Hard Candy Custom, a styling movement rooted in themes first seen in the chopper era of the late 1960s embraces dazzling metal flake paint, brilliant chrome, and styling details in accessories, gear and apparel.
“Friendly, professional training to the highest standards as one would only expect from Harley-Davidson. Would recommend the Academy to anyone wanting to learn to ride a Bike!� -Rodney Davies, age 51, British.
CVO Road Glide Custom
This distinctive shark-nose bagger now features the Daymaker LED headlamp, and is the first production HarleyDavidson equipped with this very bright and precise headlamp system. Comes with an upgraded high-output Harman/Kardon Advanced Audio system.
CVO Road King
The first factory-installed Road King audio system includes a 200-watt amplifier and an interface module for an included 8GB Apple iPod controlled by buttons on the handlebar. Features speakers with bridged tweeters. Three colour options available, including the 110th anniversary scheme.
2013 CVO Breakout
This bold new Softail model is muscle in motion, projecting a tough attitude and boasting the highest power-to-weight ratio of any current CVO model. Offered in two paint schemes that feature hand-polished steel sections on the fuel tank and fenders. A third paint option incorporates handlaid lace stencilling.
To book a test ride visit the showroom in Budaiya. Website: www.harley-davidson-bahrain.com or call Tel. +973 1759 9006.
* Prices available upon request.
Hard Candy - Dyna FXDB Street Bob
A tougher profile for 2013 with new blacked-out triple clamps and powertrain, and a chopped rear fender with combination stop/turn/ tail lights. This rowdy Dyna bobber features a solo seat and mini-ape handlebar mounted on new risers that make it easier to customise the Street Bob. New paint options include Hard Candy Custom metalflake and a scalloped two-tone option.
To book your training please email: motorcycle.academy@harley-davidson-sa.com December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 109
Gastro
Experience The True Taste Of Italy!
Cheeses, Gnocchi and much more. Breads, salad, fruits and desserts such as Tiramisu and Crostata, a traditional Italian pie will also be served. To complete the meal, customers can pick from a selection of Italian wines, juices and soft drinks. They will also be served Italian welcome drinks, Prosecco or Aperol. The brunch timings are 10.30am to 3pm, which provides ample time for customers to enjoy their meal, normally this takes two hours. Mr Marziale, who’s originally from northern Italy, reiterated that the dishes in Cucina Italiana are never adapted or fused with other cuisines and this, maintains authenticity. Together with Chef Fortunato Giordano, who’s from southern Italy, they collaborate on an Italian menu that features dishes from all Italian regions. He explained that Cucina Italiana doesn’t compromise tastes and uses seasonal products, cold cuts and cheeses only from Italy. In order to keep in step with the authentic ambience, the buffet dishes will be served in Italian crafts, for aunched earlier this example stews are year, Cucina Italiana slowly cooked and has reached popularity served in terracotta. as an authentic Italian Mr Marziale pointed restaurant with a Chef Fortunato Giordano and Bahrain Family Leisure Company Board Director and out that most Italian perfect setting where restaurants feature Acting General Manager, Christophe Marziale one can experience modern, sleek décor genuine Italian cuisine. Bahrain Confidential met with Mr and this is where Cucina Italiana stands The restaurant is an Christophe Marziale, Board Director and out from the rest. The restaurant depicts a all-time-favourite spot for many customers Acting General Manager Bahrain Family rustic look, “almost like Italian farmhouses”, who keep returning for amazing delicacies, Leisure Company who explained the creating a homely feeling. and it is upon their continuous requests promotion in detail. During the brunch, Mr Marziele and Chef that Cucina Italiana has launched a Friday Firstly, he mentioned that Sunday is Fortunato will personally attend to customers Brunch promotion starting this month. traditionally a holiday in Italy and is dedicated and guide them on how to pair course to spending time with family and enjoying a dishes, thus enjoying a traditional meal. meal together. In Bahrain however, Head out to Cucina Italiana for a Friday replaces this day, delectable Friday Brunch experience! thus the Friday Brunch Prices are BD16 per person, including promotion. selected juices and soft drinks and BD25, Cucina Italiana will including a bottle of Italian wine for two. be serving a buffet A group reservation of six or more will that consists of a full receive a 10 per cent discount. And for any Italian meal. The menu bookings made before Tuesday, customers includes appetizers or get BD1 off antipasti, pastas, Creamy Dory Alla Livornese, Frittata Cucina Italiana Restaurant is located in Juffair - an Italian style omelette, (next to Bennigan’s). For reservations, Assorted Italian Cold Cuts and Tel. +973 1700 1317.
Enjoy a traditional brunch every Friday at Bahrain’s most authentic Italian restaurant, Cucina Italiana.
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Gastro
Italian
Christmas In Bahrain!
Join Cucina Italiana for their first Christmas and New Year’s Celebration!
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ucina Italiana, Bahrain’s finest Italian restaurant will be kicking-off a full month of festivities on 5th December. Bahrain Confidential spoke with Mr Cristophe Marziale, Board of Director and Acting General Manager Bahrain Family Leisure Company who gave us a sneak peek on various events and promotions this December. The restaurant is also introducing a new menu this month, featuring seasonal dishes fit for the cooler weather. Such as Torrone, a nougat based with nuts, honey and chocolate and will be complimentary with dessert and coffee. Chef Fortunato has also slipped in a recipe for Cappone, a sweet, moist and delicate Italian poultry, baked for hours in its natural fats. Christmas Tree Lighting A real Christmas tree flown in from New Zealand will be lit on 5th December at 7.30pm to start the Christmas season. Enjoy snacks and drinks at the occasion.
Christmas Brunch Cucina Italiana’s usual Friday Brunch promotion is modified on 21st December to offer you the most amazing Christmas Italian brunch from 10.30am to 3pm. Enjoy a scrumptious turkey, stuffed with raisins and gorgonzola. Prices are BD16 per adult, BD25 with alcohol while children between two and twelve are charged half the price. Children below two years are free. Christmas Lunch In Italy, a Christmas lunch is traditionally eaten at a restaurant while dinner is a family affair, enjoyed mostly at home. Keeping in step with this custom, Cucina Italiana is serving an Italian lunch on 25th December, starting at noon. Priced at BD25++ per person, the feast includes a glorious three-course meal including cold cuts, Spaghetti alla Marinara or Linguine Alfredo, Bisque on Consomme with tortellini, turkey or sea bass, dessert and a carafe of wine. New Year’s Eve Dinner Add a twist to your New Year’s countdown. Live entertainment and a special Italian dinner is on offer for BD45++ on 31st December. Enjoy a range of delectable five course meals including cold cuts, Bisque or Pasta Fagioli, Spaghetti alla Marinara or Linguine Alfredo, Swordfish or Cappone, a full array of Italian desserts such as Panettone or Fruit Salad with Maraschino cherry, Torrone, nuts and a glass of Prosecco plus a bottle of wine for two Cucina Italiana is located in Juffair. For reservations call, Tel. +973 1700 1317 or book online at www.cucinaitaliana.com.bh
Cappone Ingredients: 1.5 kg Cappone (One piece) 200 gm Beef Sausages 50 gm Grated Parmigiano 2 pcs Egg 5 gm Parsley Chopped 1 clove Garlic Chopped 40 ml Olive Oil 10 gm Grapes 20 gm Gorgonzola 100 gm Chestnut (Boiled & Chopped) 50 gm Soft bread crumb Pinch of salt Pinch of black pepper powder Method: 1) Remove back bone of cappone and open it. 2) Prepare the filling in a bowl by adding all the remaining ingredients and mix well. 3) Fill up the cappone with the stuffing and sew the bird shut. 4) Preheat the oven and cook the cappone at 190 degrees for one hour and 30 minutes. Occasionally spreading the broth on top of the cappone to prevent the meat from drying. 5) Remove from oven, untie the string and let it rest on the platter for five minutes before serving.
“The restaurant is also introducing a new menu this month, featuring seasonal dishes fit for the cooler weather.” December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 111
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r e b m e c e D s t h g i l h g i H BICE A classy Italian restaurant of impeccable character. The fabulous surroundings and a delightful menu add that special zing to the place. Exceptional hospitality, beautiful decor and a very friendly and impeccable service make BICE an ideal destination for all special occasions. For reservations, contact. Tel. +973 1753 3666.
Maki Celebrates 10th Anniversary Regular Theme and New Year’s Nights at Crowne Plaza Eve in Style! Award winning Maki Bahrain restaurant has been an iconic culinary and entertainment haven for many Japanese fusion cuisine lovers. Visit Maki on the 15th December, the 10th Anniversary of Maki and you are guaranteed to receive a complimentary Chef special surprise! For reservations, contact. Tel. +973 1752 2733.
Theme Nights at The K Hotel
Enjoy an assortment of culinary delights with our special Themed Nights at the Klouds Restaurant everyday of the week. Only BD12++ per person* Serving from 7pm to 11pm. Saturday - Asian Night Sunday - Sushi Night Monday - BBQ Night Tuesday - Mediterranean Night Wednesday - Tex Mex Night Thursday - Seafood Night Friday Brunch Discover The K difference with our Friday Brunch! Only BD19.5++ per person including drinks. Every Friday, 12.30pm to 4.30pm *Prices subject to 15 per cent service charge and 5 per cent govt. Levy. For reservations please call, Tel. +973 1736 0000 ext. 4019
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Bollywood Brunch at Spices Restaurant Experience India and indulge yourself while you enjoy Bollywood music played by the DJ. BD12.95++ inclusive of unlimited selected beverages. Seafood Platter and Express Lunch at Waves A seafood feast shared by two!! BD9.95++ per platter. The Steak Night in La Mosaique Enjoy stakes accompanied by salads, vegetables, sauces and house beverages every Wednesday! BD15.95++ per person. Seafood Night in La Mosaique Every Thursday, all you can eat salad starters and sea food, cooked live by chefs. BD16++ per person. Absolutely Fabulous Brunch on Fridays Even more delights on offer in the three restaurants! Fabulous Brunch introduces the Mongolian Experience. BD17.95++ per person including unlimited beverages and BD14.95++ including soft drinks only. Discounts for children available. From 12pm onwards on Fridays. Contact. Tel. +973 1753 1122.
Kempinski Grand Hotel Bahrain City Centre 5-Star Friday Festive Season Brunch in SAVEUR Every Friday (7th, 14th and 21st December) Special Festive Season Brunch, enjoy an elaborate, holiday-themed international buffet. Featuring an extensive buffet, friendly mascots, holiday movie screenings, and the brilliant musical duo, Zoe & Rick, performing your favourite festive music: Venue: Saveur, Date: Time: 12.30pm to 4pm Price: BD19++, inclusive of soft beverages; children 0 to 6 years eat free, children. Santa’s Culinary Wonderland in SAVEUR Every Saturday (1st, 8th, and 15th December) Revel in an interactive afternoon full of festive-themed entertainment for your young ones, together with an elaborate Afternoon High Tea buffet featuring Christmas goodies and delights and with special selections for children and adults, complete with your favourite holiday beverages. Price: BD8++ for children under twelve years, BD13++ for adults, free for children under three years; inclusive of soft beverages Contact. Tel. +973 1717 1000.
The Royal Golf Club Every Friday Venue: Links Lounge & Restaurant: Time: Midday to 4pm Classic roast carvery buffet with all the trimmings plus live cooking stations. Special buffet table for the kids. Crèche available for younger children at only BD3 per child per hour. Visitors BD16 net. Club Members BD14 net. Kids under twelve BD8.5 inclusive of selected soft drinks Every Saturday Venue: Links & Prego Restaurants: Time: 11am to 3pm. For every adult main course ordered, a child under the age of twelve years can order a dish from the kids’ menu absolutely free. Sun-Thurs Venue: Prego Restaurant: From 6pm to 8pm Order a main course or pizza and receive a Poretti beverage FREE. For bookings contact, Tel. +973 1775 0777.
Gastro
Maki
Elite Resort and Spa 25th December
Visit Elite Resort & Spa for unveiling the longest Yule Log ever made in Bahrain! Be part of the record breaking event and enjoy a fun-filled Christmas Day with a pool side buffet brunch, a range of family activities and a visit from Santa! Entrance Fee, BD15++ per person. Children under twelve admitted free of charge.
The Bahrain Confidential gastro guide reveals the best places to eat this Christmas.
Gastro Calendar
The latest and tastiest places to go!
freshly baked Christmas assorted cookies at all outlets. From 7pm to 12am.
Christmas Eve and lunch: four course menu at BD35++ including a glass of Italian bubbly. Contact. Tel. +973 1753 3666.
La Mosaique Restaurant and Harvesters and Cappuccino A marvelous display of Christmas favourites, along with free flowing bubbly, supervised kid’s corner, fun activities, meeting and receiving gifts from Santa and face painting. Enjoy the lunch while the choir serenades you! BD25++ per adult and BD12.5++ for children. 12.30pm to 4pm
Crowne Plaza
Crowne Plaza will be serving New Year’s Eve Dinner from most of their outlets. Check the New Year section.
BICE
24th and 25th December
24th and 25th December Waves Seafood Restaurant Indulge in a special Christmas Eve Set-menu dinner on with a great variety of seafood cooked in Arabic and Southeast Asian Style. BD19.95++ including welcome bubbly. From 7pm to 12am. Spices Indian Restaurant Relish the flavours of India with mouthwatering al-la-cartemenu dinner with a delightful blend of spices prepared by the Indian specialty Chef. In addition savour the
For more information and reservations. Contact. Tel. +973 1753 1122.
Festive goodies available Roast Turkey served with Rice Meat & Nuts Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce, New potatoes or Mashed Potatoes & Spring Vegetables. With a complimentary seasons offering of your choice - half kilo Plum cake or a Christmas Pudding. with a complimentary seasons offering of your choice: Yule Log - Chocolate or Vanilla, Xmas Pudding, Christmas Plum cake, Carrot cake, Mini Choco mud Pie, Pumpkin pie, Mincemeat (Nutmeat) pie, Gingerbread Men, Christmas Hamper among many other goodies. For more details, contact: Elite Fest Hotline, Tel. +973 3627 5444.
Elite Seef Residence & Hotel 25th December
Christmas Brunch at Oasis Entrance Fee: BD15 per person and BD25 per couple. For more details, Tel. +973 1758 3388.
The Gulf Hotel 24th December
Christmas Eve Buffet in Al Waha Restaurant BD19++, or traditional home-style Italian dinner at La Pergola BD23++ or a romantic Christmas Eve dinner at Fusions BD23++.
Christmas Day, 25th December
Enjoy a scrumptious Christmas brunch buffet, music and Carol singing, visit from Santa Claus, a Christmas movie and games for the kids. For quieter setting, La Pergola will serve a special Italian Christmas feast. Gulf Convention Centre (buffet) La Pergola (set menu)
BD24 net BD19++
For more information or reservations visit www.gulfhotelbahrain.com or Tel. +973 1771 3000.
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 113
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InterContinental Kempinski Grand & Regency Hotel Ixir Hotel 24th & 25th December Legendz SteakHouse Savor a refined five course set menu with close friends and family. Plating up the season’s favourites put together by Chef Lawrence, for lunch and dinner with grape pairing. BD33++ per person. Check for the New Year menu. Medzo “Mangia bene, vivi felice” Festive cheer with a special five course set menu prepared by Chef Nicola, featuring classic home-style goodies like tortellini and ravioli accompanied by specially selected grape pairing. BD25++ per person. Noor Lounge Enjoy the warmth of Christmas carols and sweet aroma of ginger and cinnamon with the Afternoon Tea platter of home baked cookies and snacks with your choice of tea, coffee or non alcoholic Gluehwein. BD10++ (sharing platter for two) For reservations, contact. Tel. +973 1720 8308.
The K Hotel
Christmas Eve Dinner
Enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner in the Klouds Restaurant. Chef Sylvster Rozario’s special five course set menu will delight guests who crave for a traditional Christmas meal. Time: 7pm to 11.30pm, Price: BD19.5++ per person
Christmas Day Brunch
Klouds Restaurant, 12.30pm to 4.30pm, Price: BD19.5++ per person. For reservations, contact. Tel. +973 3602 1836 or +973 1736 0000.
Mövenpick Hotel 7th, 14th and 21st December Christmas celebrations Festive Brunch - It’s the flavour of Christmas and the time for family and friends. Indulge in as much as you please, for the choice is yours. Including traditional Christmas delicacies and refreshing drinks. priced at BD24++ per person, 50 per cent off for kids below twelve years old. 24th December Explore the hidden secrets of culinary highlights and the earthly treasures of a perfect Christmas Eve seafood extravaganza dinner, priced BD20++ per person. For brunches and Christmas Eve dinner, please call +973 1746 0000 to purchase your ticket and select your table early in order to avoid disappointment.
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25th December
Feast on Christmas at SAVEUR Indulge in a three-course gourmet meal, prepared with the finest, freshest ingredients to create a festive menu of timeless classics. Time: 7pm to 10.30pm Price: BD22++ for three-course set menu Kempinski Christmas Turkey Boxes Enjoy a remarkable 5-star Christmas dinner fit for a king from the comfort of your own home with Kempinski’s Christmas Turkey Boxes. 24th to 25th December for pick-up only Price: 10-12 people for BD70++ 13-17 people for BD95++ 18-22 people for BD130 ++ Contact. Tel. +973 1717 1000.
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Macaron’s Festival in December Visit the gingerbread house at Sofitel and tantalise your taste buds with the freshly baked Christmas cookies, cakes, sweets and more! Order an exquisite Turkey with condiments and accompaniments to enjoy in the comfort of your own home.
Christmas Eve Dinner Saraya Restaurant Time: 7pm-10.30pm Indulge in a lavish Christmas Eve dinner buffet with turkey and a selection of soft beverages. BD22 net per person. La Mer Seafood Restaurant: Time: 7pm-11pm A five course set menu in a cosy and luxurious environment overlooking a breathtaking view of the Arabian Gulf. BD32 net per person excluding beverages.
Christmas Brunch
Time: 12.30pm-4pm Famed to be the longest buffet brunch on the island with the most unique selection of cuisine, the Christmas brunch will be spread over three restaurants, Saraya Restaurant serving international cuisine, Wok with its South East Asian offerings and Fiamma Restaurant’s authentic Italian delights. A kids corner with various children’s activities and baby sitters will be available as well as live entertainment from the resident Cuban Band. BD34 net per person inclusive of a free flow of selected alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages. For reservations. +973 1763 6363 H6722@sofitel.com
Paul
Choose from a range of festive products. From the limited edition of mini macarons fruits, mini waffles in a star shape, bûchettes or the festive bread Pain Six Céréales Figues. La Craquant a chocolate sponge cake, chocolate mousse, feuilleté praliné, La Forêt Noire, a chocolate sponge, chocolate mousse with cherries or La Mokatine-coffee sponge, butter cream with coffee, hazelnut. Paul has the most exotic collection of festive goodies! Don’t miss the traditional Yule logs, their special mini sponge cakes or brioches in the shape of a fir tree! Contact. Tel. +973 1717 2321, +973 1758 0073.
Royal Golf Club Christmas Eve Venue: Links A la carte menu available all day Christmas Day Carvery Feast Venue: Links Traditional Christmas roasts, trimmings and desserts as well as all the favourite live cooking stations. Prices inclusive of welcome drink. Time: Midday to 4pm Members BD20, visitors BD23, kids aged four to twelve years old BD12 net For reservations, contact. +973 1775 0777.
Sheraton Bahrain Hotel
Christmas Eve Dinner Celebrate “Nochebuena” together with special Christmas Eve dinner buffet at Al Safir Restaurant. 7.30pm to 11.30pm. Price: BD12.5++ for adults, 50 per cent discount for children four to twelve years and below four years eat for free. Christmas Day Lunch at Al Safir Restaurant From roast turkey to tender sirloin steak medallions, Christmas cakes and tempting festive desserts. Lunch at Al Safir Restaurant from 12.30pm to 3.30pm Price: BD16++ for adults, BD6++ for children. Christmas Day Dinner Enjoy special dinner buffet at Al Safir Restaurant. From 7.30pm to 11.30pm. Price: BD12.5++ for adults, 50 per cent discount for children four to twelve years and below four years eat for free. For more information and reservation, please call, Tel. +973 1753 3533 ext 259.
Gastro which will be placed in every room, the objective of this is to provide suggestions on food.
Penne pasta with Alfredo sauce and fresh Pomodoro with Grissina bread
Share with us some cooking tips while making an elaborate festive menu. I have my own way of innovating the recipes, which I find very fulfilling. For any elaborate meal, one should organize the food before beginning the cooking. The easiest recipes should be cooked first so that they are out of the way and one is free to work on the complex dishes. Salad’s should come last so that its fresh and its crunchiness is retained. Use fresh herbs like oregano, rosemary, thyme and basil to enhance the food.
The Art Of Cooking
Best cooking tips for a novice? It is a must in everyone’s career to pass through the stage of an amateur. My tip to the young generation is to put your heart in every step of the way, cooking is an art, it’s all about expressing yourself through food but first and foremost, you must take into consideration the health of the person who eats your food. Aside from that don’t be shy to ask questions and give suggestion to your seniors if you are not sure of what you’re doing, this is imperative for a smooth flow and success of the kitchen operation.
Elite Seef Residence & Hotel’s Executive Sous Chef Waleed talks to Pooja Rajpal Kasala on his cooking style and what he likes to cook!
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hef Waleed El Saeed calls himself a ‘creative chef.’ For him cooking is an art. He has a passion for good food, is hard working, pro-active, approachable, innovative and a happy happy soul!
Tell us about yourself. I am from Egypt and am the Executive Sous Chef at The Elite Seef Residence & Hotel, I am a creative chef and I specialise in Mediterranean, Arabic and International cuisine. I have over twenty years of experience in the Middle East and Gulf. I have worked as a chef in major 5 Star Luxury Hotels, such as: Four Seasons Hotel, Hyatt Regency, One&Only Royal Mirage Jumerah Beach Dubai and InterContinental. For me cooking is an art, I am passionate about food and give a lot of importance to quality in food. Did you get a professional degree in the culinary arts or is it something you picked up on your own? I am a graduate of BSC Tourism and Hotel University in Egypt, I believe in continuous study and development. I also have certifications in Professional Development Program from - The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management,
Advanced Kitchen Management, HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Position) and in Meat and Livestock Australia. Tell us about your cooking style? My cooking style is simple and healthy but I always add that extra touch of my creativity. I am like the orchestrator when it comes to the kitchen. I have a great line of team who follow and are very participative in my beat so to speak! for the success of our food.
Stuff chicken with wild mushroom
What type of food do you intend on making and delighting your customers with in 2013? For 2013, we have a lot planned for the Oasis Event Area, IL GIARDINO restaurant, Sip and Dip bar and the outdoor dining beside the pool. We are planning to have a Pizza Night as an F&B promotion and intend on creating some Waleed El Saeed scrumptious Italian pizza! I am also planning to have a special house menu
What are some healthy ingredients that can be substituted for calorie rich foods which we are sure to be gorging on this season! This is a season for parties and get togethers which will for sure have an abundance of rich food, while we can’t eliminate calorie heavy food totally, we can use healthy ingredients such as organic olive oil, oats as extenders, fresh herbs and wild mushrooms for a healthier and tastier option. Some trends in the food industry for the New Year? The trend for the next year will be all about good health and healthy food. People will prefer more of white meat (fish and chicken), for dessert one should use more fresh fruits (specially the dark colours) and more of green vegetables. The use of organic ingredients will be more and I recommed eating more of rye, brown and fucasia breads For reservations, contact, Elite Seef Residence & Hotel, Tel. +973 1758 3388 or log into www.elitegroup4u.com
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 115
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True Flavours Of Arabia
‘Yalla Yalla’ The best of the best in Arabic cuisine is finally here. Al Safir Hotel launches its newest restaurant - Yalla Yalla.
Y
alla Yalla is a unique dining experience that will offer the Arab region’s most popular and distinctive cuisines. Right from Morocco to Yemen and Turkey to Iran, the restaurant will bring together the food, flavours, smells, spices, culture and all that’s truly Arabic under one roof. The word “Yalla Yalla” is a very popular term originating from Arabic meaning “Hurry Up” or “Come on” and is representative of the buffet style, live cooking stations which will serve the freshest and tastiest Arabic cuisine straight off their shelves. The interactive kitchen, salad bar and dessert station will greatly enhance the dining experience as one can easily pick and choose from the massive spread! The live cooking stations will allow the guests to watch the skills of the master chefs and will definitely be spoilt for choice with the scrumptious dishes! Sights and smells of olive oil, fresh vegetables, meats, rice, dried fruits, grape
leaves, yogurt, spices like cinnamon, saffron, pomegranate, maras peppers, fresh fruit juices, drinks and the unforgettable taste of Arabic coffee! All will tantalize the senses and prepare the diner for an enriching culinary experience. Mixed sea food platter
The décor keeping in with the theme of the restaurant is designed with sandstone tiles and dark timbers. Arabic pattern screens define spaces and the booth seating as well as the raised dining area, provide a sense of exclusivity and privacy. Yalla Yalla can accommodate over 165 people. Visit Yalla Yalla with friends and family for flavourful and appetizing Arabic cuisine
Hummus
For reservations, please contact: Tel. +973 1782 7999. Yalla Yalla is located at Al Safir Hotel in Juffair.
“The live cooking stations will allow the guests to watch the skills of the master chefs and will definitely be spoilt for choice with the scrumptious dishes!”
Mixed grill
116 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
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“Transport available on request, callconsistent, to book in advance.� since. Keeping their quality andplease service over the years -OB Copper Chimney have gathered a loyal customer base. We are located Juffair...Come see us! Their recent renovations have in served to modernise the venue, which now offers spacious seating for diners. Grand Mosque EMAIL they have an open kitchen which allows Additionally, patronsMAIL COM to see FELDA Gulf Hotelthe staff prepare their meals with the highest standards of quality and hygiene. Fresh ingredients are used Al Jazira to prepare the flavoursome meals on the extensive menu. Supermarket Copper Chimney is a must visit if you want Indian cuisine at great prices and prepared with the highest standards. ? Their Tandoori dishes are excellent, and it’s also ideal NSA for Vegetarian dishes. Tel. +973 1772 8699.
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Gastro
Joelle Sushi
Maki Combines Healthy With Tasty
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Head to Maki for healthy and sumptuous Japanese food!
hen you speak of Japanese cuisine and culture, you visualize healthy population, long lifeexpectancy, and of course, one of the best cuisines around the globe. From shitake mushrooms, to ginger, wasabi, avocado, and various seafood, a Japanese diet consists of many elements that are not only healthy for you to eat, but are also “ailment-fighting” ingredients. Think of illness and disease as your worst enemy, and think of Japanese cuisine ingredients as your most faithful allies! When it comes to Maki, all the above mentioned elements of Japanese cooking are adopted, yet, Maki goes one step beyond. How does Maki do it? Not only does Maki’s gastronomic philosophy revolve around healthy Japanese ingredients, this culinary haven introduces its own brand of healthy ingredients Azayaka Chilli Shake™
118 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
to the Japanese traditional ingredients. The resultant is amazing concoctions and mixtures of sauces and food garnishments that make Maki what it is today: a leading contemporary fusion Japanese cuisine restaurant with many healthful choices to choose from! Take the Amer Maki™ and its ingredients as
the top ten healthy ingredients that nature has to offer, the avocado used in Bader Maki™ promotes good cardiovascular health, and contains vitamins C,E, K, B6, folate, potassium, lutein, and magnesium. Many other Maki dishes include healthy ingredients that are essential for longevity and good health. To name a few: Oze Akami Maki™, Tara II Maki™, Nano Maki™, Oliver Salad™, Hakoniwa Shake Sashimi™ and the famous Edamame™ starter. So the next time you contemplate a healthful, yet flavourful meal, think of all the foregoing ingedients that make up Maki’s menu, head to Maki restaurant, and enjoy!
“Tuna meat is an active element in reducing the aging process, Alzheimer’s disease, and fighting several types of cancer.” a primary example. To start with, there is the soy bean wrap which promotes the reduction of bad (LDL) choleserol, and reduces the risk of heart disease. Rich in protein, Niacin, vitamin B6, and Selenium, Tuna meat is an active element in reducing the aging process, Alzheimer’s disease, and fighting several types of cancer. As for the cold-pressed, single squeezed, house-grown, extra virgin olive oil that is used for the sauce on the Amer Maki™, it is the perfect agent for regulating blood pressure, and maintaining bad and good cholesterol at optimum levels. The Bader Maki™ recipe was newly conceived to pay tribute to a famous TV personality. Similar to Tuna, the main ingredient of this deliciously made Maki roll is salmon, which is associated with regulating blood pressure, lowering bad cholesterol, and promoting a healthy heart. As for black sesame, it is an ingredient in this sumptuous Maki roll that reduces inflammation, protects from colon cancer, osteoperosis, and supports respiratory health. Along with vitamin B1 and dietary fiber, black sesame is well-known for containing several essential minerals. Considered one of
Maki Bahrain is located at Bahrain World Trade Centre, West Tower, King Faisal Highway. Open Daily from 12 noon till 11.30pm and till midnight on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Public Holidays. Lounge will open till 2am on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Public Holidays, and till 1am on other days. For enquiries and reservation, Tel. +973 1752 2733 or +973 3699 9102. Email: maki.bahrain@olivermaki.com For Delivery and reservation: website: www.olivermaki.com Reservation is HIGHLY recommended. Maki is almost fully booked everyday Follow Maki/Zeebrgr on Facebook and on Twitter @ZeeBrgr/@Makirest
Nightlife
Crystal The Night Never Elite Hotel Looked So Bright
Klub 360 Glow Theme, Entrance Fee: Men BD20, Ladies BD10
Dance as though . no one is looking .. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa The Black and White New Year’s Eve Party
Al Nakheel Ballroom Doors open at 8pm. Dress Code: Formal A themed black and white ballroom event set to be the major highlight of the holiday season. Feast on a lavish, international buffet with live entertainment from The Xoul Show and Tej’ai Sullivan, a Michael Jackson Impersonator. Tickets are priced at BD65 net per person inclusive of selected alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages. The Xoul Show is a talented group of professional entertainers from the USA presenting soul music in a unique and dynamic fashion. Tej’ai Sullivan is one of the best and most talked about Michael Jackson tribute perfomers world over, with over 20 years of entertaining experience.
All other outlets will operate as normal serving their usual a la carte and buffet menus. For reservations. Tel. +973 1763 6363 H6722@sofitel.com
Crowne Plaza Hollywood Oscar Night 2012 Party the night and walk on the red carpet like the famous movie stars at this Hollywood inspired party. Doors open at 8pm for a cocktail reception, followed by dinner from 9pm onwards, live music, DJ, and unlimited beverages. Tickets: BD70 net per person. Couples and mixed groups only. Dress code: Formal or theme dress. Alternatively - New Year’s Eve Party @ Harvesters: with the in house band - Major Reloaded. BD10 per person entry fee. For Reservation, contact. Tel. +973 1753 1122.
Pashawat Arabic Restaurant Time: 8pm-2am Dress Code: Formal Guests: Couples and families only Set menu inclusive of selected alcoholic drinks including arak, non alcoholic beverages as well as live arabic entertainment and a performance of Belly Dancing. BD75 net per person
For Reservation, contact. Tel. +973 3336 0300, +973 3627 5444.
The Gulf Hotel
Enjoy a candle lit dinner at La Pergola. Set Menu BD45++ (includes a glass of sparkling & half a bottle of wine). Sherlock Holmesexclusive New Year’s Eve party. BD7++ (includes one selected beverage). Al Waha Restaurant offers special New Year’s Eve buffet. BD32++. China Garden, Sato and Royal Thai - a la carte menu with a minimum charge of BD25++ per person. Margarita Mexicana Latin night with live music and entertainment. Set Menu: BD45++ Zahle An entertainment programme by Lebanese band and belly dancer. Set Menu BD65++ (includes selected alcoholic beverages)
New Year’s Day
Recharge with New Year’s Day brunch buffet at Al Waha, including sparkling wine, house wine, fresh juices and soft drinks. Al Waha (buffet) - BD23.5++ Gulf Hotel are offering special New Year room packages.
Sofitel has designed a special room’s package of BD199 net for two people which includes one night’s stay in a luxury room for two people, two tickets for the New Year’s Eve Black and White dinner party in addition to breakfast on New Year’s day. La Mer Signature Seafood Restaurant Time: 7.30pm-2am Dress Code: Formal Guests: Couples and families only An intimate celebration in Tapas Bar and La Mer Restaurant overlooking spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf. A lavish set menu dinner inclusive of selected alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages as well as live entertainment from the Latino Band and DJ. BD85 net per person.
Awtar Entrance Fee: BD45 per person including Arabic set menu, live entertainment including belly dancer, singer, DJ and other giveaways.
For more information or reservations visit www.gulfhotelbahrain.com or call, Tel. +973 1771 3000.
Elite Resort and Spa Shift 7 Entrance Fee: Men: BD35, Women: BD25 Special room packages include One Bedroom suite BD125 net Two bedroom suite BD200 net inclusive of: 1. New Year Eve party (for one couple) 2. Buffet Breakfast in La Brasserie 3. 50 per cent discount on meals for children when dining with parents. 4. Complimentary pick and drop 5. Special treats 6. Early check in and late checkout (upon availability) 7. Complimentary Bottle of bubbly
The K Hotel New Year’s Eve at the K Lounge Buffet is served from 9pm to 12midnight, Price: BD20++ per person inclusive of a grand buffet, one welcome drink and a midnight drink. Welcome the New Year in true Arabian style at the Kenza Lounge Time: 9pm to 2am, Price: BD18++ per person inclusive of set menu, inclusive of Live Entertainment For more details contact. Tel. +973 3602 1836 or +973 1736 0000 or email: banquet@thekhotel.com
Please be aware that timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 119
Nightlife
Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel
Mövenpick Hotel
New Year’s Eve Celebration at BAHARAT: Complete with an Orientalthemed, elaborate gourmet buffet featuring an eclectic array of Middle Eastern dishes, live entertainment, belly dancer and a wide selection of Sheesha. Time: 9pm to 2am. Price: BD49++ Special New Year’s Eve Offer with Kempinski Stay one night and enjoy New Year’s Eve with great values for two, including an elaborate oriental buffet dinner and live entertainment at Baharat, an extended New Year’s Day breakfast in Saveur, and a BD30 shopping gift voucher from Bahrain City Centre when you spend BD100 or more! Price: From BD178++ Bizarre Lounge Live music by DJ Monica. Come partake in a magical New Year’s Eve Party at Bizarre. Price: Free entrance; VIP tables from BD200++.
1st January 2013
Celebrate New Beginnings at Saveur Indulge in a 5-star international gourmet buffet with the backdrop of live music by the musical duo, Zoe & Rick. Price: BD15++ For more details, contact. Tel. +973 1717 1111 or reservations.bahrain@kempinski.com
Start the night with Bushido’s delicious menu and vast selection of beverages. Live DJ soundtracks, champagne, masques, confetti, surprises and party through the night. BD75 including menu + selection of drinks. Premium dinner: From 7pm to 10.30pm. After-dinner event tickets (after 11pm): Pre-Sales Gentlemen BD15 (no drink) / Ladies: BD10 (1 drink and hat) On the day: Gentlemen: BD25 (no drink), Ladies: BD15 (1 drink). For Reservation, contact: marketing@bushido.com.bh Tel. +973 1758 3555 ext 222
Mövenpick Hotel
New Year Celebrations
A four course set menu including cocktails throughout the night and at midnight a glass of Italian Bubbly. Entertainment, an in house DJ and an Italian pianist set the tone for a very special night! For reservations, contact. Tel. +973 1753 3666.
Sheraton Bahrain Hotel New Year’s Eve Dinner
Gather with family and friends over a dinner at Al Safir Restaurant and enjoy five-star festive dining experience with lots of goodies and festive drinks. Price: BD18++ for adults including one drink during midnight, BD8++ for children New Year’s Day Lunch at Al Safir Restaurant from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Price: BD14.9++ for adults, 50 per cent discount for children four to twelve years and below four years eat for free. For more information and reservation, please call, Tel. +973 1753 3533 ext 259.
Bushido Restaurant and Lounge
New Year Eve Party
Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Brazilian night. An authentic Brazilian floor show, feathers and all for a dazzling show. The talented DJ will help you escape to the ultimate fantasy with live performances and music all night long. Prices start at BD55++ in the party zone the Flamingo Bar and at the Silk’s restaurant, or at the absolute prime venue the lobby/Gallery at BD65++, all packages including a New Year Gala buffet and festive unlimited drinks.
1st January 2013
BICE
Bushido Restaurant and Lounge
New Year brunch The Rio Carnival Parade is taking over Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain. So what better way to while away the late morning than to tuck into a sensational brunch! A true Brazilian carnival celebration with all its excesses. Enjoy the horde of enthusiastic samba revelers, dressed in glitzy costumes, performing exciting shows with live music resonating from ethnic instruments. Brunch including the shows and festive beverages priced at BD24++ for adults and BD12++ for children below twelve years of age, free for the one’s below six years. For reservations call, Tel. +973 1746 0000.
Maki New Year’s Eve
Maki celebrates with fine, premium wine pairing dinner at BD40 per guest, with “cotillion”, and tasteful music. The New Year’s Eve event will start at 9pm and end at 2am. Fine tasting, refined cuisine, beautiful ambience, and five-star service, enjoy yourself this new year! For reservations, contact. Tel. +973 1752 2733.
Royal Golf Club New Year’s Eve Set Menu
Links Enjoy a spectacular five-course dinner while overlooking the golf course by night Time: 7pm to 11pm For bookings contact, Tel. +973 1775 0777.
InterContinental Regency Hotel 31st December
Medzo Bring in the New Year with hearty flavours from Tuscany with a five course set menu accompanied by specially selected grape pairing. BD33++ per person
31st December
Selections Special New Year’s Eve Buffet A grand gala buffet featuring festive culture highlights inspired by the kitchen of continent. BD30++ (inclusive of alcoholic beverages) BD22++ (inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages) Downtown Ring in the New Year at Downtown with foot thumping music from resident band Tacit. Countdown to the New Year in vibrant surroundings with sparkling bubbly at midnight, free flowing selected drinks, record spinning DJ and many more surprises throughout the night. BD20++ for ladies and BD25++ for gents. 9pm onwards entrance For reservations, contact. Tel. +973 1720 8308.
If you want to see your event listed send your material by the 15th of every month by email:
bc.editorial@ArabianMagazines.com
120 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Listings
Restaurant Listings Chinese Hong Kong Adliya, Tel. 1772 8700 The myriad dishes are served in abundance and are all delicately and lovingly flavoured. The soft steamed dumplings are magnificent, the sizzling seafood is cooked to perfection, and the beef with black mushrooms and bamboo shoots deserves plaudits beyond Bahrain.
Copper Chimney Al Hambra Hotel (1772 8699) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD10 Lanterns Budaiya Highway (1759 0591) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD15 Moti Mahal Juffair (1782 5333)
Waves Crowne Plaza Hotel, Tel. 1753 1122 A popular lunchtime retreat, picking your fish and eating it is the order of the day, and the catch is as varied as it is complete. And the nutty, honeycombed chocolate fudge delight will finish you off nicely. Le Jardin Ramada Bahrain, Tel. 1774 2000 Fully renovated with a new look - ‘Bigger, Better, Brighter’.
Soie Sheraton, Tel. 1753 3533 Chinese and Asian specialities in sophisticated and elegant Oriental surroundings. Beijing Chinese Adliya, Block 338 (1771 7969) Open daily, 11.30-3pm, 6pm-midnight. Average BD15 First Chinese Adliya (1771 3603) Open noon-3.30pm, 6pm-midnight. Foli Um Al Hassam (1772 2199) Open noon-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm. Asian Cuisine Adliya (1771 7080) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD50 Magic Wok American Alley, Juffair (1769 4105) Open daily 8am-11pm Memories Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 8646) Open Sat-Wed 11am-11pm; Thu-Fri 11am-midnight. Average BD12
Indian Aachi’s Chettinand Kitchen Near the Indian Club, Gudaibiya (1723 3110) Open daily 10.30am-3.30pm, 5.30pm-11.30pm. Akbar Ramada Palace Hotel (1729 6660) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-12.30am. Average BD16 Asha’s Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 7008) Open daily 11am-noon Clay Oven Adliya (1771 7008) Open daily 11.30am-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm Average BD14
Zoe Block 338, Adliya (1771 6400) Open Sat-Tue noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight; Wed-Fri noon-3pm, 7pm-2am. Average BD18/25 Zytoun Novotel Al Dana Resort (1729 8008) Open daily 6.30am-midnight. Average BD16
The Gallery Mövenpick Hotel, Tel. 1746 0000 Picturesque pool and lagoon views.
American
La Med The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Tel. 1758 0000 Mediterranean and international cuisine.
Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Juffair, Tel. 1772 5550 Specialising in good ol’ fashioned home-cooked American chow, Ric’s does a mean burger, excellent chilli and a mouth watering Jambalaya. Its American breakfasts are legendary.
Le Bistro InterContinental Regency, Tel. 1722 7777 Main restaurant situated above the lobby with International buffet lunch daily.
Applebee’s Bahrain Mall, Sanabis (1755 5834) Open Sun-Thu, 11am-mid-night, Fri-Sat, 11am-1am. Average BD10
Olivos Brasserie The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1752 2124 This Mediterranean brasserie offers superb food in a relaxed atmosphere. In buffet style you can enjoy a super breakfast, sumptuous lunch and delicious dinner. Copper Chimney
Yamin Jana Mediterranean Seafront Lounge Dragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 3800) Open daily from 2pm onwards
Al Waha Restaurant Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6425) Open 24 hours
Bennigan’s Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, Tel. 1781 3750 (Open 6am - 2am, all week; Also serves breakfast.) Brasa de Brazil Seef Mall, Seef District (1758 2225) Open daily, noon-11pm. Average BD10 Chilli’s Seef Mall/Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1758 1221/1717 9794) Open daily, noon-midnight. N.B.: BCC opening times apply. Average BD20
Open daily noon-midnight Average BD15
Al Wasmeyah Restaurant Golden Tulip Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 5000) Open 24 hours
Mumbai Spice Bahrain Mall, Sanabis Open daily 10am-10pm
Block 338 Adliya (1771 0338) Open every evening from noon-2am
Sangeetha Opp Inidian Club, Gudaibiya (1727 2768) Open daily 7.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm
Café Sayah Delmon International Hotel (1722 4000) Open 24 hours
Spices Crowne Plaza Bahrain, Diplomatic Area (1753 1122) Open daily noon-11pm Average BD25
Downtown Lounge InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily from 5pm to 2am
Takatak Nr Awal Cinema, Gudaibiya (1725 4848) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm
La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts Ras Ruman (1771 3000) Open daily 9am-10.30pm. Closed Monday. Average BD20
The Great Kebab Factory Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 0629) Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight
Muju Restaurant and Lounge Dragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 9800) Open daily, 24 hours
La Pergola Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 Traditional and contemporary Italian specialities with Italian music.
Nando’s Juffair (1782 5100) Open 11am-2am
Caffe Spasso New Zinj (1782 2274) Open daily 8.30am till late
Rendezvous Seef Mall, Seef (1758 7708) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm
Café Italia Adliya (1774 4774) Open daily noon-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm. Average BD35
International Fusions Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 The food and wine list will keep you coming back to Fusions. Try the beautifully tender grilled sirloin with boldly flavoured ginger mash and a selection of roasted vegetables. Links Restaurant The Royal Golf Club, Tel. 1775 0777 Links, located on the mezzanine floor of the Club House, is a large, brasserie-style restaurant/lounge open to all visitors to the Royal Golf Club. Features include a cocktail bar, an outdoor terrace and floor to ceiling picture windows offering patrons spectacular views across the golf courses. Silk’s Mövenpick Hotel, Tel. 1746 0000 With cuisine inspired by the four continents of the Silk Route, the food on offer here is eclectic and varied all cooked in front of you in open kitchens around the restaurant.
Rimal Al Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000) Open daily 6.30am-11pm Average BD40 Selections InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily from 6.30 am to 11.30 pm Teatro Dana Mall (1755 8555) Sat-Wed 1pm-4.30pm, 6.30pm-midnight; Thu-Fri 1pm-11.30pm Average BD19 Upstairs Downstairs Adliya (1771 3093) Open daily 7am-11am, noon-3am, 7pm-midnight Average BD20
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
Hard Rock Café Exhibition Road, Hoora (1729 1569) Open daily, 8am-1am. Average BD10
Italian Cucina Italiana Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, Tel. 1700 1317 (Open 6am-2am, all week; Also serves breakfast.) Mondo Restaurant The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666 The goat’s cheese and rocket pizza is probably the best in Bahrain. A funky, friendly Italian place, just like momma used to make it.
La Taverna City Centre Hotel, Gold City (1722 9979) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD18 Medzo InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily for lunch and dinner Mino’s Adliya (1774 4777) Open daily 11am-12.30am. Average BD15 Nino’s Restaurant Al A’ali Complex, Seef Tel. 1756 6555
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 121
Listings
Restaurant Listings Maki
Oliveto Block 338, Adliya (1771 6747) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD30 Pizzeria Café Italia Seef Mall (1758 2823) Open daily 11am-11pm. Average BD12 Roma Um Al Hassam (1772 5885) Open daily noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm. Average BD30 Romano Macaroni Grill Juffair (1772 3818)
Japanese Sato Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 The food here is good. Order well and you will be rewarded with your favourite dishes done very well indeed. Bushido Seef (1758 3555) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-2am. Average BD35 Fuji Sushi Bar Sheza Tower Hotel (1753 3336) Open daily 12.30pm-midnight. Average BD25 Hajisushi American Ally, Juffair (1772 5638) Open daily 11am-11pm. Kei Golden Tulip Hotel (1753 5000) Open daily 12.30pm-3pm, 7.30pm-11pm. Average BD12-30 Maki MODA Mall (1752 2733) Open daily noon-midnight, Average BD40 Enjoy fine, contemporary, fusion Japanese Cuisine at Maki. Taste the spicy, the tangy, the extravagant, and the exotic all in one bite! Unparalleled culinary adventure, unmatched by another, only at Maki. Mirai Adliya (1771 3113) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm. Average BD40. Sumo Sushi and Bento American Alley, Juffair (1771 8090) Open daily noon-midnight. Sushi 101 New Zinj (1782 2274) Open Sat-Thu noon-3pm, 6pm till late; Fri 1pm-4pm, 7pm till late. Sushi Ko Adliya (1771 6619) Open Sat-Wed 6.30pm-11pm; Thu 6.30pm-midnight. Average BD11 Yo Sushi Al Aali Shopping Complex, Seef (1758 3373) Open Sat-Wed noon-midnight; Thu-Fri noon-2am Average BD20
122 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
Middle Eastern Kosebası Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2322 www.kosebasi.com Kosebası (pronounced koshe-bashi) serves traditional Turkish mezes and main dishes true to original Southern Anatolian recipes. The centerpieces of the restaurant are a lovely ornated oven and an open charcoal grill. Al Abraaj Budaiya (1759 5656) Open daily noon-midnight Al Arisha Um Al Hassan (1772 5414) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight
L’Sultan L’Hotel, Seef (1756 7222) Open daily noon-midnight
Baan Saeng Thai Sh Isa Avenue, Adliya Open daily 11.30am-3pm, 6pm-midnight.
Laialy Zaman Nr Funland, Fateh Corniche (1729 3097) Open daily 11am-4am
Bali Orchid Nr Omar Khayyam Hotel, Gudaibiya (1718 0424) Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD7
Marmaris Avenue 28, Sanabis (1755 5909) Open daily 11am-midnight
BamBu Adliya (1771 4424) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm. Average BD28
Maseelee Gulf Pearl Hotel, Souq (1721 0647) Open daily 5am-9.30pm
Captain Cove’s Behind Mass Computer, Gudaibiya (3975 8989) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight. Average BD5
Mono Lebanese Budaiya Highway (1755 5262) Open daily noon-midnight Parsian Adliya (1781 1511) Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7.30pm-midnight. Average BD14 Persian Garden Seef (1758 600) Open noon-11pm Persian Room Amwaj island-the lagoon Tel. 1601 0166, Mob: 3927 6249 Opening Sat-Wed noon-midnight Thu-Fri noon-1am Average BD9
Al Arz Ramada Palace Hotel (1729 6660) Open 7pm-midnight
Rayes Fateh Corniche (1731 2700) Open daily noon-12.30am Average BD12
Al Fanar Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa (1753 1666) Open Mon-Sat 9.30pm-2am
Takht-e Jamsheed Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6431) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm
Al Hamra Delmon International Hotel (1722 4000) Open 24 hours
Tarbouche City Centre Hotel, Gold City (1722 9979) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight
Al Mukhayam Ramada Palace Hotel Open daily 8pm-1am
Wafi Gourmet Bahrain City Centre (1779 999) Open daily 9am-12.30am
Al Shama Windsor Tower Hotel (1729 7000) Open daily 9pm-2am
Yas-e Isfahani Seef Mall (1758 1151) Open daily 10am-10pm. Average BD16
Al Yacout Novotel Al Dana Resort, Muharraq (1729 8008) Open daily 8pm-2am
Seafood
Amwaj Dajla Iraqi Mirador Hotel, Manama (1729 8008) Open daily 8pm-2am
Fareast Seafood Market Ramee International Hotel, Juffair (1772 7230) Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pm. Average BD16
Anatolia Turkish Restaurant Cyprus Garden, Budaiya (1769 0601) Open daily noon-11pm Carla’s Cyprus Garden, Sehla (1769 7687) Open daily noon-midnight Dar Al Tajine Phoenicia Tower Hotel, Hoora (1731 1167) Open daily 6pm-6pm Golestan Sheraton Bahrain Hotel (1753 3533) Open Sun-Fri 12.30pm-2.30pm, 7.30pm-11.30pm. Average BD12 Isfahani Hoora (1755 0567) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD20 Khan Al Marjan Al Safir Hotel Hotel (1782 7999) Open daily 9.30pm-2am
Fish Market Al Bander Hotel and Resort (1770 1201) Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pm Average BD25 La Marine Bugerland Building, Budaiya (1759 5777) Open daily 1pm-midnight Sheza Seafood Market Sheza Tower Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 3336) Open daily 12.30pm-midnight
Hash House Adliya, Block 338 (1771 5094) Open daily 11am-midnight. Average BD15 Honey’s Souq (1774 9222) Open Sun-Wed 10am-5.30am, Fri-Sat, 24hrs. Mamy Soup Exhibition Road, behind the CPR building (3919 5343) Open daily 11am-11pm. Monsoon Adliya, near Ferrari Centre (1774 9222) Open Sat-Thu noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11pm; Fri 7pm-11pm. Average BD15 Nu Asia Seef, near Al A’ali Shopping Complex (1758 7171) Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD15. Pong’s Off Exhibition Road, Behind CPR Office (1753 0800) Open daily 11am-4am. Thai Chi Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9747) Open daily noon-midnight. Thai Express Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 3595) Open daily 10am-11.30pm Thailand Block 338, Adliya (1771 7040) Open daily 6.30pm-11.30pm, Average BD15
Steakhouses The Butcher Shop & Grill Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2323 Serves a wide variety of steaks as well as salads, burgers and seafood dishes. Integrated into the restaurant is also a fully functioning retail butchery, which enables customers to choose a specific cut and size or buy meats for their home requirements. Brazil Adliya (1782 6686) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm. L’lle Al Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000) Open every evening, 6pm-11pm Legendz Steakhouse InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily for lunch and dinner
Totally Fish Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9757) Open daily noon-midnight
Le Relais de Venise Son Entrecote L’Hotel, Seef (1756 7222) Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm. Average BD40
Asian
Ponderosa Steakhouse Seef - Tel. 1758 0552 Open all week from 11am - 1am
Kontiki Restaurant The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666 Enjoy authentic dishes from Asia and the South Pacific for lunch and dinner. Or head over to the Kontiki Pool bar from 10am to 11pm.
Sizzlers Restaurant Mansouri Mansions Hotel (1771 6999) 24 hours. Average BD10
Listings
Restaurant Listings The Meat Co Block 338 (1774 2080) Open Sat-Wed 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm; Thu-Fri 12.30pm-midnight Average BD50 Mezzaluna Adliya (1774 2999) Open daily Sun-Wed 7pm-11pm; Thu-Sat 7pm-11.30pm Average BD46
French Camelot Block 338, Adliya (1771 7745) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD30 L’Avenue Seef District (1756 7212) Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7.30pm-11pm
Mexican Casa Mexicana Adliya (1771 5521) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight. Average BD18 Margarita Mexicana Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6462) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm Senior Paco’s Adliya (1774 6462) Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight. Average BD18
Polynesian Trader Vic’s Ritz Carlton Hotel and Spa, Seef (1758 6555) Open daily 7pm-midnight Average BD20
Thai Royal Thai Seafood Restaurant Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 Colonial stateliness and Asian adornment is the order of the day with high ceilings, great white pillars and multiple levels to accommodate private alcoves; it’s a grand and gracious setting. Choose ostrich, just because you can. Muay Thai Quick Meal Restaurant Juffair Next to The Pizza Company Thai Food, Tel. 7704 0454 Daily Open: 12pm-12am
Cafés Café T The Royal Golf Club, Tel. 1775 0777 Café T serves a selection of burgers, salads, fresh and ready-made sandwiches, fruit juices, milkshakes and frozen drinks. With an outdoor terrace seating up to 30 people and relaxing background music, Café T is the perfect place to meet up for a chat with friends.
PAUL Bakery & Restaurant Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2321 Seef Mall, Tel. 1758 0073 www.paul.fr Since the founding of the first small PAUL bakery in Lille back in 1889, the passion for authentic bread making has been passed on through generations. - and relax in PAUL’s unique ‘rustic-chic’ ambience.
A Lounge Adliya, Behind Monsoon (1771 0041) Open daily, 11am-2am. Average BD15 Al Bindaira Adliya (1774 4066) Open Mon-Thu, 10.30am-12.30am, Fri, 1pm-1am. Average BD12
Maya Chocolat Seef Mall, Seef District Open Sun-Wed, 10am-11pm; Fri-Sat, 10am-midnight. Average BD15 Med Café Adliya, near Carlton Hotel (1771 3088) Open daily 11am-1am. Average BD10
Chocolatiers Godiva Seef Mall, Seef District (1758 0699) Open 10am-10pm Hotel Chocolat Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9779) Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight
Albareh Art Café Adliya, Behind the Carlton Hotel (1771 3535) Open daily, 8.30am-11pm. Average BD5
Motorox Café Budaiya Highway (1759 2583) Open daily from noon-midnight. Average BD12
Al Riwaq Café Adliya, Block 338 (1771 7441) Open daily 10am-9pm. Average BD5
Palm Café Qal’at Al Bahrain Museum (1732 2549) Open daily 9.30am-7.30pm. Average BD6
Aroma Restaurant & Cafe Ground Floor, Seef Mall, Seef District Open for lunch and dinner (1758 2711)
Patisserie Valerie MODA Mall, Diplomatic Area Open daily 7.30am-9pm
Café Lilou Adliya, Block 338 (1771 4440) Open Sat-Thu 8am-11pm; Fri 10am-11.30pm. Average BD10
Skyw@alk Café Marriott Executive Apartments, Juffair Open daily 6.30am-11.30pm. Average BD12
Maya La Chocolaterie Seef Mall (1758 3368) Open daily, Sun-Thursday 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-12am
Tea Club The Lagoon, Amwaj Islands Open daily 12pm-midnight. Average BD8
Patchi Manama, near Dairy Queen (1725 0501) Open daily 9.30am-9pm
Tilly’s Jawad Dome, Budaiya Open daily 8.30am-9.30pm
RAWASI Chocola Mahooz, near Qatar Embassy Open daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm. Fri open from 4pm-9pm
Candles Coffee Adliya, Behind Fudruckers (1771 4844) Open Sun-Thu 9am-1am; Fri 5pm-1am, Average BD12 Caramel Cyprus Gardens, Budaiya (1779 7087) Open daily, 8.30am-midnight. Average BD5. Café Ceramique Al A’ali Mall, Seef District Open daily, 9am-11pm; Fri-Sat 9am-midnight. Average BD8 Coco’s Adliya, Block 338 (1771 6512) Open daily 10am-midnight. Average BD10
Veranda Adliya, Nr HSBC bank and Adhari (1771 5868) Open daily 9.am-1am. Average BD8 Waterlemon Al A’ali Shopping Complex, Seef District (1758 1785) Open daily, 10am-11pm. Average BD6
La Papillon Manama, near Dairy Queen (1725 5542) Open daily 9.30am-9pm Lovely Memories Mahooz (1772 2533) Open daily 10am-10pm
Salvia Budaiya, Budaiya Highway Open daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm. Fri open from 4pm-9pm
Columbus Café Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 2324) Open daily, 8am-midnight. Average BD7 Crepe Café Palm Square, Budaiya Highway (7711 5566) Open Sun-Wed, 8am-midnight. Thu-Sat 8am-1pm. Average BD6 Deli France Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 6031) Open Sun-Thu, 8am-10pm; Fri-Sat, 8am-11pm. Average BD9 Dome Café Juffair, near American Base (1781 0180) Open 24 hours. Average BD15 Friend’s Club Adliya, 54 Bani Otbah Avenue (1771 3732) Open Sat-Wed, 10am-midnight; Thu-Fri, 10am-1am. Average BD8 Gloria Jean’s Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9262) Open Sat-Wed, 9am-10.30pm; Thu-Fri, 9am-midnight. Average BD8 House of Coffee Muharraq, Sheikh Ebrahim Centre (3662 9968) Open daily 9am-9pm, Average BD6 La Maison du Café Adliya (1771 7524) Open daily 8am-2am. Average BD12 La Ventana At the moment La Ventana is currently undergoing renovation – check this space over the coming months to find out where the new café is located and our opinion! Le Chocolat Seef, Seef District Open daily 7.30am-midnight. Average BD10 Macaron Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa (17636418) Open daily from 8am-8pm
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa
So Brunch - Saraya, Wok and Fiamma International Buffet Selection and Live stations. BD 26/net per person inclusive of soft drinks, chilled juices, free flow of sparkling wine, red and white wine, beers and a cocktail of the day. Kids below 6 are free of charge and between 6-12 years old get 50% off. Every Friday from 12.30-4pm Tel. +973 1763 6410 Saraya - International All Day Dining International Buffet for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and A la carte throughout the day. A la carte throughout the day, all week. Open daily from 6.30am-11pm Breakfast Buffet: BD11++ Lunch Buffet: BD12.5++ (BD15 net) Dinner Buffet: BD12.5++ (BD15 net) Tel. +973 1763 6410 Fiamma - Italian Restaurant Regional Italian cuisines with a wide selection of wines for Lunch and Dinner. Monday to Saturday (Closed on Sunday) 12:30pm-3pm (Thurs, Fri, Sat) 7-11pm Tel. +973 1763 6414 Pashawat - Arabic Restaurant (Opening Soon) Open Tuesday - Sunday (Closed on Monday) 7pm-12midnight Tel. +973 1763 6413
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
Wok - Asian Restaurant Authentic Southeast Asian Cuisine. A la Carte Dinner - 7-11pm. Wednesday - Monday (Closed on Tuesday) Tel. +973 1763 6415 La Mer - Seafood Restaurant Open Daily for A la carte Dinner - 7-11pm. Large international wine selection. Tel. +973 1763 6411 Tapas Bar Open Daily for Lunch and Dinner Open from 11.30am - 12midnight Food Available between 11.30am - 3.30pm and 7pm - 12midnight Tel. +973 1763 6412 Lagoon - Pool Bar Lunch and Dinner Open Daily - light snacks; A la carte from 9am until sunset Tel. +973 1763 6416 Lobby Lounge and Macaron Pastry Shop Lobby Lounge: 8am-12midnight Macaron: 8am-8pm. French pastries, Baked Viennoiseries and Macarons. Tel. +973 1763 6418 Amber - Cocktail Bar Open Daily from 6pm-2am Tel. +973 1763 6419
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 123
Listings
Sports, Fitness and Kids Creative Kids
Fitness/Aerobics/Spinning
Meditation/Yoga
Al Safir Fitness First The Regency The Diplomat Radisson Blu Curves (Budaiya) Ez Fit Sports Complex Image Spa & Leisure (Sheraton Hotel) The Health Club (Gulf Hotel) Nautilus (Crown Plaza) Sports Club & Spa, Ritz-Carlton Al Gosaibi Gym Ghassan’s Gym (mat and private classes available) La Fontaine Centre World Beat Fitness Centre
Art of Living 3988 8760 Dessange 1771 3999 (Yoga classes offered several times a week) Bahrain Meditation Centre Bahrain 1779 5961 (Wellness Resort) Saturdays and Wednesdays. 7pm to 8.30pm, Mixed yoga classes. Sundays and Tuesdays (Ladies Only), 10am to12pm Bayoga Centre 1772 5027 Daily yoga classes, relaxing yoga and meditation for beginners and advanced students. World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 Reiki Master And Teacher Melanie 3933 0911 offers Reiki sessions and courses or www.reikibahrain.com Anubhaa Sharma anurays@yahoo.co.in
1781 3815 1332 2200 1722 7777 1753 1666 1769 1496 1769 2378 1752 4570 1771 3000 1753 0764 1758 9380 1729 3221 1769 5911 1723 0123 1761 2576
Badminton Bapco Club Telgu Kala Samithi The Indian Club
1775 3666 1727 6300 1725 3157
Basketball EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Basketball Association
1769 2378 1774 1010
Bowling Al Bander Hotel & Resort Awali Bowling Centre Bahrain Bowling Association Bapco Club Funland Centre
1769 2378 1769 5809 1727 6134
1765 0079
Dance Bahrain Ballet Centre Indian Institute for Performing Arts Latin Dance Bahrain Sampaguita Club Sayaw Unlimited Dance Club Victoria Dance Centre World Beat Fitness Centre Profiles Fitness Centre Pineapple
1769 3232 1723 1717 3967 6349 3910 6589 3982 7096 3987 6215 1761 2576 1772 7766 1771 2000
Football Al Ahli Sports Club Al Hala Sports Club Bahrain Rugby Football Club British Club Dilmun Club EZ Fit Sports Complex Arsenal Soccer School
1727 7712 1734 2182 1769 5809 1772 8245 1769 2986 1769 2378 1756 1615
Golf Awali Club Royal Golf Club
Snooker Bahrain Snooker Association Jimmy’s Snooker and Billiards Club
Bahrain Badminton and Squash Federation The Country Club Al Bander Resort Nautilus (Crowne Plaza) The Diplomat Radisson Blu
1782 5301 1771 6147
Swimming Lessons British Club Dilmun Club Ritz Carlton Sports Club The Diplomat Radisson Blu
1753 1165 1745 0000 1778 0011 3944 4137
Martial Arts Japan Karate Association 3944 9628/3667 2204 Profiles Fitness Centre (Boxing for ladies) 1772 7766 Zen-Do 1761 1909 Bahrain Karate Centre 3947 7709 Goju Karate Club 3965 9510 World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 Bahrain Karate-do Academy 3665 7059
124 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
1759 3593 1770 1201 1753 0764 1753 1666
Awali Riding Club 1775 6525 Saturdays to Thursdays, 7am to 7pm. Fridays 7am to 6pm. Desert rides. Qualified instructors Bahrain Riding School 1769 0448 Daily rides 4pm to 6pm Dilmun Club 1769 2986 Sundays to Thursdays. 8am to 11am and 3pm to 7.30pm Shakhoora Riding School 1759 1103 Sundays to Thursdays, 8am to 12noon, 3.30pm to 7pm The Country Club 1759 3593 Fridays Horse riding in paddock, 1pm to 4pm Twin Palms Riding Centre 1759 1668
Bahrain Sailing School Coral Beach Club The Marina Club The Sailing Club The Yacht Club Aquatique - Organised pearl diving Al Bander Resort Bahrain Swimming Association Dilmun Club
1729 2313
1729 2662
Horse Riding
Watersports
Ice Skating Funland Centre
1769 5809
Art Classes Paint In Space 1762 6232 Chaoss 1759 2096 Dar Albareh 1771 3535/3906 9016 Celebrations 1759 5791 Bahrain Art Society 1759 0551 Indian Institute for Performing Arts 1723 1717 The Studio 3975 4863 Studio Ceramics 1759 9026 Things to Do 1759 0409
Drama Film-making workshops
3600 1777
Kids Gyms/Gymnastics My Gym, www.my-gym.com EZ Fit World Beat Fitness Centre Chaoss
1756 6566 1769 2378 1761 2576 1759 2096
Libraries Awali Library (BAPCO, Awali) British Club (Times vary) Iqra’s Children’s Library Muharraq)
1775 3666 1772 8245 1732 0955
1772 8245 1769 2986 1758 0001 1753 1666
1731 0252 1721 2700 1729 1527 1783 6078 1770 0677 1727 1780 1770 1201 1768 0867 1769 0926
Tennis Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561 The British Club 1722 8245 The Country Club 1759 3593 Dilmun Club 1769 2986 Gulf Hotel 1771 3000 Marina Club 1729 1527 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561/1772 9756 Filipino Club Tennis Group 3952 7587
Bahrain Music Institute Kindermusik Bahrain Room to Rock
Al Areen Wildlife Park
1783 6116
Adhari Park
1740 7300
North of the Shaikh Isa Bin Sulman Highway Fun for all ages, includes a sports camp, groovy town, discovery village and indoor entertainment Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports
Chaoss
1759 2096 Swimming, gymnastics, dance and Taekwon-Do for children and teenagers.
Dolphin Park Corniche next to Marina Club One hour marine mammal show.
1729 3109
Funland
1729 2313
Corniche next to Marina Club Bowling and Ice Skating everyday.
Hawar Island
1731 1770 Day trips to Hawar Island, boats depart from Ad Dur Jetty at 10am daily
Kid’s Kingdom
Music Lessons
1775 6770 1775 0777
Go Karting/Racing Rally Town BIC Silver go-Karts (Tubli) Gulf Speed One (Seef)
Rugby
Squash
Cycling Bahrain Cycling Association
Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 (Thurs) 4.45pm for girls; (Sun) 7.30pm for women Riffa Views Netball League 3630 6946
Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1770 1201 1775 3666 1782 2077 1775 3666 1729 2313
Cricket EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Rugby Football Club SLC Grounds, Riffa Thursdays, Training 3pm to 5pm
Netball
Where To Go
1772 1999 1761 3144/3925 6904 1761 1785
Corniche, next to the Hawar reservation office A small outdoor playground. Good fun for young children. Open until late.
Magic Island Seef Mall
Play Centres Chakazoolu Indoor Theme Park www.danamall.net Chaoss Funland Centre (bowling, ice skating, pool) www.funlandcentre.com Mad Science Magic Island, www.seefmall.net My Gym, Softplay at Dilmun Club Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark www.lpodwaterpark.com
1755 8500 1759 2096 1729 2313
1759 1136 1758 2898 1756 6566 1769 0926 1784 5100
Play Groups Chaoss, Off Budaiya Highway 1759 2096 Kindermusik 3925 6904/1761 3144 Ajyaal Montessori Pre-School Mini Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (4 to 7 year olds) Musical Babies, Nadeen School 1772 8886 My Gym, Seef District 1756 6566 Rhymes & Chimes, Dilmun Club 3929 6848 Soft Play, Off Budaiya Highway 3965 3678 Sticky Fingers 3961 8340 Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (7 to 11 year olds) Tots & Toddlers Group, 1772 8245 The British Club Wriggly Readers, British School 3912 9585 (for pre-schoolers) www.mumsinbahrain.net
Over 120 different games and attractions and Bahrain’s only indoor Roller Blade Arena.
Playland 1774 2266/1762 0999 Above Fuddruckers in Adliya An indoor centre full of games. Each ride costs 100 fils. Tokens available. Soft Play 3965 3678 Future Shape Dance Studio, Garden City Every Monday and Wednesday from 9.30am to 11.30am Children under the age of six months attend for free. www.softplaybahrain.com Studio Ceramics
1759 9026 Budaiya Highway Pottery painting and more. Open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday, or by appointment. Birthday parties and private group bookings possible.
Water Garden Salmaniya 1726 2034 Near Dairy Queen roundabout A semi-filled lake with paddleboats and birds. School & Nurseries Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain 1717 3000 Bahrain City Centre Opening Hours: Saturday to Tuesday: 11am to 8pm Wednesday: 11am to 10pm (Ladies Night 5pm to 10pm) Thursday and Friday: 11am to 9 PM
Things to know The Tourist Department (Tel. 1721 1717) is located in the gate to Manama’s souq, Bab al-Bahrain, on the ground floor next to the tourist shop, Times: 8am to 12 and 4.30pm to 6pm, closed on Friday.
Currency The Bahrain Dinar (BD) is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of US$1=BD0.377 - in other words a dinar is worth about $2.65. It is a convertible currency with no restrictions on its import or export. Tip: the Saudi Riyal (SR) is also accepted
in shops for purchases at an exchange rate of BD1=SR10 (less in hotels) and you may be given Saudi money as change.
Business Hours Friday is the Islamic equivalent of the Christian Sunday. The weekend falls on a Friday and a Saturday. Most shopping malls and commercial centres are generally open seven days a week.
Listings Schools American Curriculum
Al Hekma International Tel. 1762 0820/1762 3999 Modern Knowledge Schools Tel. 1772 7712 Riffa Views International School Tel. 1656 5000 The Bahrain School Tel. 1762 0820
British Curriculum
Clubs & Associations
Other Private Schools Al Noor International School Tel. 1773 6773 Ecole Francaise de Bahrain Tel. 1732 3770 Ibn Khuldoon National School Tel. 1778 0661 Shaikha Hessa Girls’ School Tel. 1775 6111
Special Needs
Al Mahd Day Boarding Tel. 1779 2422 British School Tel. 1761 0920 Budaiya Preschool Tel. 1779 1491 Dilmun School (elementary) Tel. 1771 3483 KG Kids Tel. 1766 3556 St Christopher’s School Tel. 1778 8108 Sacred Heart School Tel. 1768 4367 Talent International and The Infant School Tel. 1725 2346/1777 0078
Disabled Sports Federation Tel. 1778 9191 Hope Institute Tel. 1768 0815/1768 0500 R.I.A. Institute Tel. 1771 6871 The Children’s Academy Tel. 1761 3234 UCO Parents Care Centre Tel. 1767 7717
Art Societies
Things to know Taxis are easily available in the capital, Manama, and have meters but be sure to make the driver use the meter. 99% of drivers won’t switch on the meter and will try to charge you double the legal fare. Beware!
Al Dana Nursery Tel. 1725 3541 Dana Pre-school, Riffa Tel. 1777 0180 Lilliput, Budaiya Tel. 1769 4947
Confidential Tip: BD1 per five minutes in the cab is the most you should pay for an un-metered journey. If traveling from the airport or busy taxi rank, add BD2/after midnight add BD1 to the total e.g. a 10 minute drive from the airport after midnight should cost you no more than BD5 (BD2 + BD2 + BD1= BD5). Taxis do use meters and companies may use similar rates.
Avoiding Offence
Generally speaking, very short skirts and tight midriff tops are frowned upon in public, although acceptable by hotel pools, in private clubs and on the beach. If visiting a mosque, cover the body well (women should ensure that arms and legs and hair are fully covered). Shoes should always be left outside the entrance.
Essential Info 24-Hour Pharmacies Jaffer Pharmacy Tel. 1729 1039 18, Tarfah bin Al Abid Avenue, Manama 319 Nasser Pharmacy Tel. 1774 0900 63-B, Qadisiya Avenue, Manama 332 Awal Pharmacy Tel. 1777 2023 30 Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Avenue, East Riffa 901 Muwasaa Pharmacy Tel. 1733 5666 Shaikh Mohd bin Salman Avenue, Road 205, Muharraq.
Courier & Express Delivery
Tel. 1733 0434
Tel. 1736 4100
Tel. 1734 9199
Car Hire An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive in Bahrain except for visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council states, U.S.A., Canada, countries in the European Union, Australia and New Zealand. The offices of car-hire companies are easily encountered at the airport. Recommended principal rental firms include: Budget Rent A Car National Car Rental Avenue Car Rental and Leasing
Tel. 1753 4100 Tel. 1723 1156 Tel. 1771 3181
Embassies & Consulates Embassies generally open from 8am to 1pm from Saturday to Wednesday and some Arab embassies also open on Thursday. Many embassies have a number of staff on call outside these hours for emergencies. Algeria 1771 3669 Bangladesh 1771 4717 China 1772 3800 Denmark 1772 5119 Egypt 1772 0005 France 1729 8660 Germany 1753 0210 India 1771 2785 Iran 1772 2400 Iraq 1774 1472 Italy 1725 2424 Japan 1771 6565 Jordan 1729 1109 Kuwait 1753 4040 Lebanon 1778 6994
Malaysia Morocco Netherlands Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Portugal Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Switzerland Syria Trade Mission of Taiwan Thailand Tunisia Turkey UAE UK UN Info Centre USA
1756 4551 1774 0566 1759 1568 1729 3663 1724 4113 1727 6099 1725 0990 1753 6709 1772 2922 1772 5222 1753 7722 1753 1166 1772 2484 1729 2578 1727 4142 1771 4149 1753 3448 1771 0333 1757 4100 1731 1676 1724 2700
Flight Information Airline offices are normally open from 8am to 12.30pm and from 3pm to around 5pm, Saturday till Wednesday. Flight Info 1733 9339 Air India 1729 6444 British Airways 1758 7777 Cathay Pacific 1722 6226 Emirates 1758 8700 Gulf Air 1733 5777 Jet Airways 1722 7114 KLM 1722 9747 Kuwait Airways 1722 3300 Lufthansa 1782 8762 PIA 1722 3808 Qatar Airways 1721 2202 Saudi Airlines 1721 1550
999 1725 3447 1779 0025 1781 2000 1782 8282 1728 8888
Telephone Helpline Intl. calls via operator Directory enquiries Directory enquiries - Intl. Other phone enquiries Speaking clock
Charitable Organisations Alia for Early Intervention 1773 0960 Bahrain Cancer Society 3960 3489/1723 3080 Bahrain Charity Society 1729 3363 Bahrain Disabled Sports Committee 1778 9191 Bahrain Human Rights Society 1753 1822 Bahrain Red Crescent Society 1729 3171 Friendship Society for the Blind 1762 4496 Hope Institute for the Handicapped 1768 0815 Islamic Enlightenment Society 1772 0053 Lions Club of Bahrain 3908 0097 Manama Rotary Club 3939 4522 Migrant Workers Protection Society 3946 5378 Overseas Workers Welfare Admin. 1721 3825 Palm Association 1779 0826/3964 3211 Riffa Cultural and Charity Society 1777 5444 Think Pink 3907 6717 BSPCA 1759 1231/1759 3479
Gallery/Crafts Al Riwaq Art Space 1771 7441 Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre 1761 1900 Art Lounge 1758 0522 Traditional crafts including palm weaving, pottery and woodwork. Bahrain Arts Society 1759 0551 Thursdays drawing and painting for Children, 18 hours @ BD25, 10am to 12pm Saturdays and Mondays drawing and Painting for adults, 18 hours @ BD30, 3pm to 7pm. Bahrain Pottery Society 1778 6898 Clay pottery, ceramic and painting lessons - Saturdays and Mondays, 5pm. Crafts Centre Gallery and Workshop 1756 8032 Arabic calligraphy Caravan Galleries 3996 5853 Kerala Arts and Cultural Association 3963 9319 The Studio 3975 4863 Pottery painting and more for adults and children, open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday or by appointment. Birthday parties and private group bookings possible. Shaikh Ibrahim Cultural 3940 2302/1732 2549 and Research Centre Studio Ceramics 1759 9026
“Help” 24-Hour Helpline for Distressed Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous
3987 3357 1753 0020 1753 3558
Bridge
Hospitals & Clinics Emergency American Mission Hospital (AMH) Saar Medical & Dental Clinic (AMH) Bahrain Specialist Hospital Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital Salmaniya Hospital
Scrabble Bahrain Scrabble League Bahrain Kannada Sangha Saturdays. 6.30pm.
Elham 1771 7441 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art 1723 0123 The Bahrain Contemporary Art Society 1772 8046
Taxis
Nurseries and Creches
Animal Welfare Al Ahli Animal Centre 1762 2102/3965 4343 BSPCA 1759 1231 Delmon Kennels & Training 3971 7609 Jassim Veterinary Centre (Sugaya) 1723 1242 Modern Animal Health Centre (Budaiya) 1759 0908 Nonie Coutts Surgery, (Manama and Saar) 1724 5515 Pet Arabia 1759 2288 Saar Kennels 1779 2064
Bahrain Bridge Club Bahrain Bridge Committee
3960 7219 3968 7190
Darts Balouch Club Sri Lanka Club
1729 2231 1729 7878
1724 2641 1727 1157
Speech & Drama Bahrain Cinema Club Dilmun Amateur Dramatics Society Folk Poetry Society Manama Theatre Club Manama Toastmasters Club
1772 5959 1769 0926 1776 1000 1777 6489 3965 5676
Ladies Clubs American Association of Bahrain 1756 4170 American Women’s Association 1775 6075 Australian Association of Bahrain 3910 1348 Awali Ladies Association 1767 8947 Bahrain Business Women’s Society 1772 1188 Bahrain Garden Club 1772 7625 Bahrain Women Society 1782 6777 Bahrain Young Ladies Society 1727 3508 BYLS-Toastmasters Club 1762 6237 Get together for Ladies 3917 4247/3902 7892 Indian Ladies Association 3980 5372 International Ladies Group 1772 9128 Madinat Hamad Women Society 3964 3396 Contact person Amal 3987 8758 Pakistani Women’s Association 1771 0944 Second Sunday Newcomers 3927 0413/3641 1368
Language Schools Al Quran Translation 1764 5156 Bait Al Taleem 1764 3199 Berlitz 1782 7847 British Council 1726 1555 Carousel 3967 3635 Lingua English Saturdays. Mondays and Wednesdays. English Language Classes, 4.30pm to 6pm, 4pm to 5.30pm. English Language Centre 1770 0040 Lingo - Ease Language Centre Budaiya Highway 1759 0895
Social Clubs Alliance Française 1768 3295 Assamese Community 3909 1959 Awali Caledonian Society 3636 6458 Bahrain Caledonian Society 3944 0658 Bahrain Hash House Harriers 1786 2620 Bahrain Irish Society info@bahrainirishsociety.com Bahrain Kannada Sangha 1727 1257 Bahrain Round Table 3960 8568 Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 Bahrain Welsh Society 1772 7127 Balouch Club 1729 2231 British Club 1772 8245 ext. 32 Bhatia Mitra Mandal 3960 1789 Country Club 1759 3593 Dilmun Club 1769 0926 Filipino Club 1726 2143 Indian Club 1725 3157 Karnataka Social Club 1725 4257 Pakistan Club 1725 8520 Pakistan Association 3941 5200 Royal Society of St. George 3972 6329 Saar Cultural & Sports Club 1779 0335 Shree Nayrana Cultural Society 1725 5517 Shri Gujarati Samaj 3962 4285 Sri Lanka Club 1727 6134 Wisdom Home Society 1772 7575
Wellbeing Kelly Armatage Inc. Offering counselling, life coaching and cognitive behavioural therapy sessions Mob: 3993 1399 Email: info@kellyarmatage.com www.kellyarmatage.com
Chess 151 181 191 100 140
Bahrain Chess Federation
1725 2133
Photography Awali Photo Society Bahrain Arts Society
1776 4468 3966 7751
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 125
News Bites Butterfly Flies South on Airplane
US butterfly expert Maraleen MarosJones in New York found a Monarch butterfly midmetamorphosis near her home. Most Monarchs had already begun their migration and the weather had become too cold for Maraleen’s lucky female Monarch to travel south alive. The butterfly expert decided to personally take the Monarch to the Texas Butterfly Ranch by Southwest Airlines where it can join other Monarchs midjourney. Maraleen took the Monarch as a carry-on, packed in protected layers and cooling agents to keep it calm.
Elephant Speaks Human
Koshik, an Asian zoo elephant can speak five Korean words, “Choah,annyong, anja,” translated to “good, hello, sit down.” Situated in South Korea’s Everland Zoo, the elephant speaks by tucking his trunk inside his mouth. Researchers concluded Koshika can speak human by testing and playing 47 recordings of the imitations to native Korean speakers. They were asked to transcribe what they heard in order to confirm the sounds are proper words. Koshik’s words were also compared to typical Asian elephant sounds and found out they were different, which means Koshik is speaking human.
Bizarre
News Out-of-the-ordinary news bits gathered by our Bahrain Confidential Team from around the world.
British Man Sues Telemarketers for Wasting Time
A British man issued an ultimatum to telemarketers, warning them that he will charge GBP10 per minute for his time wasted. He continued receiving calls despite the warnings and being on UK’s Do Not Call list. He began keeping track of the minutes and recorded every call on his computer. The telemarketing company was taken to a small claims court where the British man was compensated GBP195 for 19 minutes and 30 seconds of annoyance. He has created a website “Say No to Cold Calls” that features tips and tricks on how to sue telemarketers.
Reckless Driver to Wear “Idiot” Sign
A Cleveland Municipal Court judge has ordered a reckless driver a unique sentence for not stopping for a school bus and driving along the sidewalk to bypass it. The driver’s license has been suspended for 30 days and she was ordered to pay USD250 court costs. She was also asked to wear a sign that read, “Only an idiot would drive on the sidewalk to avoid the school bus” for an hour a day for two days a week at the intersection where the violation occurred. She was arrested after a bus driver noticed this behaviour several times and video recorded one of the incidents with his cell-phone.
Pooch Hotel Opens in California Gun Found in Book Donated to Indiana Library
A library employee found a historiclooking handgun inside a hollowed out book that was donated. Discovered in the Porter Country Public Library, police says there are no traces about the copy of Robert Stone’s “Outbridge Reach” with a gun inside due to the high volume of donations received by the library. It is described as a gold, wooden handle, ASM brand, .31caliber, single shot, black powder gun.
126 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
A five star hotel for dogs has been launched in San Diego, California. The furry friends are treated to complimentary tummy rubs, pedicures and pampering spas during their stay. The palace suites in the hotel cost about USD100 per night. Amenities include a flat screen TV, memory foam bed and room service. Treadmills and lifestyle programs are also provided for dogs that need to be monitored for weight. Webcams are installed for owners who start to miss their pets and want to see them.
Great Grandmother Wins Lottery Twice
A 91-year-old American woman has won two separate jackpots this year, reeling in USD400,000. Lena Eaton is the world’s luckiest great grandmother after recently winning USD99,999 and USD300,000 in August. The chance of winning the two lotteries is calculated to be one in 5.7 trillion.
Lifestyle
Horoscopes “A friend to all is a friend to none.” - Aristotle Sagittarius 23 November -
21 December There is something exciting about these planets in Cancer. Archers are suddenly ready, raring and roasty hot. What a change of pace! But make hay while the sun shines, Sadge; by mid- December the planets shift and so do you. Travel awaits those who plan ahead. Do so immediately; Mars retrogrades on the 29th and upends home projects. Escape while escaping is good!
Capricorn 22 December
- 19 January Relationships take up more of your attention in early December as the planets hover in emotional Cancer. Caps can reinforce relationships or seek new ones, as they wish. By mid-December, the planets move into Leo and heat up partnerships to a new level of intimacy. See what you can find out. Retrograde Mars will make any move landscape changing. You have been warned!
Aquarius 20 January
- 18 February Even though the summer sizzles, Aquarians are content to take care of the nitty gritty rather than play. December offers you a great opportunity to buckle down and get any onerous pile of tasks taken care of before the planets move on into Leo mid-month. After that you are drawn to creating and maintaining relationships. Can you buy love? Retro Mars pulls out your checkbook.
Pisces 19 February
- 20 March Toss your troubles to the four winds, at least in early December when planets in Cancer make life too fun and giddy for too much serious application. Good. Pisces need a break! Enjoy it while you can. Planets edge into Leo mid-month and turn up the speed on your treadmill and grindstone. Work it and get it out of the way. You DO want to make a good first impression, don’t you?
Aries 21 March - 19 April
No sooner do you comfortably nest in the serenity of your home than the planets deliver a party to your door. December is replete with fun, fancy and frolic for all Rams who can muster the energy. But as you get the party train on track, be sure to steer clear of retro Mars at the end of the month who is vying for a new direction. Which way is up? Be sure to read the directions!
Taurus 20 April - 20 May
Bulls can’t help but roar out the good news but will it come out as a squeak? There are many planets hovering in Cancer in early December and, as they trek into Leo, you may find yourself embroiled in family affairs. Is there a friend in sight? Perhaps, but with retro Mars conjuncting Uranus, you find that pals spark a few unwanted changes with their big opinions. Dig in your hooves.
Gemini 21 May - 21 June
Cash in on your good fortune early in December when the planets find a way to pay your bills. But don’t go crazy on the charge card; by midmonth your interests veer to putting out fires in your career. Twins should not take any professional action unless absolutely necessary. Mars retrogrades and makes your best moves deep potholes. Oops!! Retirement anyone??
Cancer 22 June - 22 July
How do you like all this wonderful attention Crab? There are five planets dancing in your sign this December and you cannot help but be charming and charismatic. So woo the pants off of ‘em while you can and celebrate when the planets swerve into Leo. You turn your attention to financial issues so it makes dollars and sense. Can money buy happiness? Let’s find out!
Leo 23 July - 21 August
There are quite a few planets transiting Cancer in early December and Lions may feel quite a bit intuitive. But before you bank too much on your profound insights, the planets move into your own sign and you are pushed into center stage. You will be far too busy meeting and greeting to get caught up in your solitary thoughts. Good thing too; You should be out and about!
Virgo 22 August -
21 September Virgos are popularity plus this December as far flung friends find you. Haul out the drinks and chips and have a great time. But as the month edges forward, you may find yourself more philosophical and spiritual. Planets in Leo suggest that there may be more to life than just a good time. Forgetaboutit friend; enjoy your summer and contemplate your navel in the fall.
Libra 22 September
- 22 October December turns your attention to professional goals. Libras are poised and ready for success as many planets cluster in Cancer. But all work and no play makes for a very dull summer. Thank goodness there is a planetary march into randy Leo mid-month. You are thrust into the social swim so pack your bathing cap and dive in. Retro Mars screws up your work projects anyway ...
Scorpio 23 October
- 22 November Scorps cannot be tied in or tied down, as much as one would try. This December promises a bevy of interesting adventures (no names please!) across a range of exotic locations. Make your tracks before the planets shift into Leo in mid-month and you are parachuted into the corporate arena. Ready to make a name for yourself? Hmmm, does it have more than four letters?
December 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 127
Opinion
Personal Views from KSA
by Mohammad T. Al Rasheed deusvolt@hotmail.com
Human Calendars!
This month, Mohammad Al Rasheed shares his views on how dates and calendars are so important for us but how we conveniently never question the relevance of those special days.
L
ast month’s article was about Hajj. The overall theme of that article could be loosely stated as ‘Human Calendars.’ Well, Hajj and Christmas are not that far from each other this year, so I continue the theme and talk about Christmas this time. I have always fancied myself to be an equal opportunity practitioner of logomachy. I can see you turn your nose as you read this last word. Don’t. Instead, look it up. I am not being a smartass, but ever since I nearly came close to flunking my ‘Greek Mythology’ course at the university because of this word, I have not had the opportunity to use it. Today, I could not resist since it fits (even though rather loosely). Now I finally have my revenge on that word. Logomachy, therefore, allows me to treat Christmas like I treated Hajj. I have my kid’s gloves on so not to worry. Christmas is constant. It comes at the same seasonal time every year. No big deal since it follows the Gregorian Solar Calendar. It is expected, and duly arrives during the winter season - Southern hemisphere countries notwithstanding. Hence you can have a song wishing for a white Christmas. Since Lunar calendars are eleven days shorter, we are denied the luxury of linking our festivities to a particular season. Personally, I don’t suffer from this handicap since I celebrate anything that people want to celebrate as long as they don’t force me to do so. Even at times with over-commercializing of the holy feast, Christmas retains some charm that is invaluable. People are simply in a better mood. They go about smiling, greeting each other warmly, and the decoration is breath-taking. Even as they go
about feverishly buying stuff they don’t need and can’t afford, they maintain this oblivious and intentional disregard for the future (economical future, at least) and plough on as if there is no tomorrow. Sure, they know that there is a hangover to come, not to mention post-holiday blues, but people are willing to defer that till it actually arrives. On the religious side, no one really cares that Christ was not born on this date, and
Orthodox though who celebrate His birthday on the 6th of January) to celebrate the New Year. It really matters little how this date came to be the New Year, but since we all, more or less, follow this calendar in our daily lives, the world joins to celebrate. I have always wondered what we actually celebrate on that most important night? Considering that most or even all those who celebrate, either in public or private, the bang of the midnight hour locally, are well saturated in alcohol, does anyone know the answer to this question? I don’t think so. Here’s a hint though. Are we celebrating the end of a ‘miserable’ year that has just gone by, or does our hope spring eternal and we celebrate the wish that the coming year is less miserable than the one that just passed? Does it matter? Not really. We have no control over what has gone and what is to come. A clue to our intentions might be found in the fact that, universally, we all celebrate this event in a state of willing suspension of consciousness. The French are certainly happy about this fete as they get rid of all the bubbly that did not sell during the summer. Good for them. While the French benefit from the ‘state of willing suspension of consciousness’, others benefit from the other clue: fortune telling. They are all over the place playing on our fears and hopes to make millions while telling us nothing. I have always wondered how these people cannot tell their personal future and live ‘happily ever after?’ They are like stock market (so-called) ‘experts.’ They keep telling us what to do with our money and how to invest it, and none of them are rich. So much for all of this. Just enjoy and have safe fun and many happy returns. Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year
“Since Lunar calendars are eleven days shorter, we are denied the luxury of linking our festivities to a particular season.”
128 | Bahrain Confidential | December 2012
his birthday and date is something that is forever a mystery. No one cares either that this date was chosen by the Roman emperor Constantine, the one who made Christianity the official religion of the Empire, and that the date corresponds to what they thought to be the shortest day of the year and corresponded also to the pagan God Sol Invictus (Sun God) who was Constantine’s favourite pagan God before his conversion. It was thought that good old Sol, being the sun, ‘died’ on that day to rise again from the dead the next morning. Well, it sort of fits. Christ died and rose from the dead like Sol and Constantine approved of both of them, so why stick with ironical cross-religious linkage and deny the two a birth date on the same day? Christmas post-holiday blues and hangover are short lived. A week later, the rest of humanity joins the Christians (not the
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