Bahrain Confidential January 2014

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

Introducing ‘The Ma’akum Dream Team’ An Exclusive Interview With Khalid Almoayed Eaten Too Much 9 Simple Foods That Can Revolutionise Your Diet BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20

Portraits of Dilmun Stories Behind Faces

133 Issue

Contents JANUARY 2014 • ISSUE 133

Poetry

10

30 Poem: David Hollywood: Now’s Past in Featured Futures, with Future Moments Passed

Opinion 34 John Ridley: Letter from Bahrain 62 Katarzyna Richter: Are You Culture Clever?

Regulars

18

10 Not to be Missed 32 New in Town 71 Technology 73 Society: Out & About

Cover Feature 26 Ma’akum – With You

Juicy Pickings 36 Portraits of Dilmun 66 Travel: Sri Lanka

Beauty, Health & Well Being

72 Help Portrait: A Global

56 Beauty Buzz

Photography Initiative

60 9 Simple Foods To Change Your Diet

Fashion

Cars

48 Aigner Spring/Summer 2014

111 Car News

54 Parfois Winter Collection

112 Skoda Octavia

40 New Year Messages

113 The New Bentley Flying Spur: A Review 114 Lincoln: MKZ

66

115 The Mini John Cooper

Essential Listings 122 Recommended Restaurants, Nightspots, Essential Info, Beauty Spots, Sports and Fitness, Clubs and Associations.

CITROËN C4 AIRCOSS

THE URBAN STUNNER

STARTING FROM

BD 7,450 The Citroën C4 AIRCROSS the urban stunner combines strength, power, style and efficiency.

Both in the city and off road, the Citroën C4 AIRCROSS lets you choose your driving style, depending on the road conditions and your mood. With its elegant and harmonious interior, the first impression on board the Citroën C4 AIRCROSS is one of comfort. It allows you to stay connected with the outside world with the latest technology & gadgets.

Visit Motorcity to indulge into a new test drive experience today!

CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE

Motorcity Showroom, Tel : 17 62 11 62 www.motorcity.com.bh

Publishers: Nick Cooksey and Rebecca Smith Editor in Chief: Rebecca Smith Editorial: Melissa Nazareth Jenny Ann Thomas Layout and Design: Noel De Juan Contributors

David Hollywood John Ridley Ameena Adel Bucheeri Enosh Kumar Sales Account Manager Zena Williams Gareth George Administration Nikesh Pola Sales Coordinator Smily Andrews Events Coordinator Mark Jason Garcia Photographer Shareef Panhatt Business Development/ProDesign Redia Castillo Sueallen Menezes Dhanraj S. Distribution Distribution Executive Mohammed Yousif Muhammed Shareef P Rafnaj

Editor’s

Letter Dear Readers,

Eyes full of stars and a heart filled with dreams we set foot towards a new ray of hope; towards a new year! The past year just flew by; nevertheless taught us new lessons made us stronger people and of course gave us those memories that we will cherish for a life time.

Our first issue this year is all about you; ohhhh! We can’t tell you how much we love it because it’s such a people’s magazine, you guys! We are so happy to see so many faces, both Bahraini and expatriate in our January 2014 issue.

Our cover feature is an interview with one of the most respected names in the Kingdom, Khalid Almoayed. Go to page 26 to find out what he and the remaining 15 candidates hope to achieve if they are elected onto the new board of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Ever looked at the many faces around you and tried to guess what those eyes are trying to say. Check out pages 36 and discover Portraits of Dilmun.

We also have a New Year Special feature (Pages 40) for which we caught up with some of our readers to discuss their hopes and aspirations for 2014.

Turn to pages 48 for your monthly dose of fashion. Walk into the new season with chic and bold styles for your wardrobe.

Our travel feature, this month (Pg 66) transports you to the pearl of the orient, Sri Lanka. December to March is the ideal time to visit this place if you’re a mountain-trekker and beach-lover; so pack your bags!

Packed with many more interviews, with interesting people who are experts in their own fields, the latest in social media, and what’s up and about on the party and gastronomical scene, this issue of Bahrain Confidential vows to entertain you to say the least.

Have a wonderful and fruitful New Year!

The Bahrain Confidential Team

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

COMPETITION WINNER

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.

is the winner of the competition we ran in our December 2013 issue. She wins a 1 night stay with a sumptuous breakfast at The Domain Bahrain!

Printed at Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej, Bahrain.

Mariecris Tecson

Cover Credits: MA’AKUM

Readers’ Letter

Dear

Editor

Many thanks to all 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 and remember our response back is said in good humour.

The DIRECTORY 2013 Great job on the supplement, guys. My husband and I totally loved it. In fact I picked up few for my girl friends too. It’s such an easy-to-carry book and fits perfectly well in my tote. It’s got all the numbers I need and so I’m good to go! Good luck for the New Year!

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

133 Issue

Bayan

Introducing ‘The Ma’akum Dream Team’ An Exclusive Interview With Khalid Almoayed

Bahrain Confidential has done it once again! What a brilliant cover for the supplement! The DIRECTORY 2013 is now my comprehensively compiled super book of numbers! Cheers!

Portraits of Dilmun Stories Behind Faces

Taking It To The Next Level - Leaders in the Hospitality Industry

Eaten Too Much 9 Simple Foods That Can Revolutionise Your Diet BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

132 Issue

Kaley

Thanks, ladies! We loved the first edition of The DIRECTORY too. Looking forward to bring out the next one sometime this year.

Name Game

BAHRAIN SHINES INSIDE

- Everything You Need For The Perfect Holidays - Fashion - Parties And Much More ...

BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

131 Issue

Grumps

You have a really neat animal’s page, each month.

I love the names that are given to these animals. Was wondering if you guys choose names or is it the BSPCA? Also, if I want to adopt a pet how do I go about it?

Animal Lover

Taking It To The Next Level - Leaders in the Hospitality Industry .... And Much More BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20

Dear Animal Lover, we love you! We couldn’t agree more with you about the names – they’re so apt.

No, we don’t name the animals. Congratulations on deciding to adopt a pet. You can call on the numbers at the bottom of the page and someone from the BSPCA or Tony the Dogfather will be more than happy to guide you. Wish you all the best!

Happy New Year!

My family and I are regular readers of Bahrain Confidential. Great job over 2013. Here’s wishing the team all the very best for the New Year.

Anu

Thanks, Anu. Choicest greetings and good wishes to you and you loved ones from all of us at the CONFIDENTIAL office!

6 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Europe’s Best Airline*

People

“For a comedy to work, magic has to happen.”

Bradley Cooper

Birthday: 5th January 1975 Age: 38 years old Birth Sign: Capricorn Birth Place: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania About him: He was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in Silver Linings Playbook in 2012.

Before Fame: He studied and honours degree in English from Georgetown University.

Hobby: Bradley Cooper loves to cook. He also spends a lot of weekends with the Learning through the Expanded Arts Program (LEAP), a non-profit organisation that teaches school children all about acting.

Favourite Movies: New York Stories, The Conversation, The Celebration and The Diving Bell and the Butterfly.

Trivia: He considers Daniel Day Lewis, the world’s greatest actor.

Speaks French fluently.

He was named “Sexiest Man Alive” in 2011.

ICONS OF THE MONTH Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite January Babies.

“I don’t aspire to be like other drivers I aspire to be unique in my own way.”

Lewis Hamilton

Birthday: 7th January 1985 Age: 28 years old Birth Sign: Capricorn Birthplace: England About him: He is the British Formula One racecar driver.

Before Fame: He started his racing career driving go-karts from the age of six.

Wins: He won the Formula One Championship in 2008.

Favourite Bands: Natasha Bedingfield, Oasis, 50 Cent, P Diddy and Pharrell Williams.

Greatest Fear: Being eaten by a great white shark.

Trivia: He keeps his helmet on during training and sometimes wears it at night with weights to increase neck strength.

He eats Sugar Puffs with extra sugar.

8 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

fly with United to a champions league game get the VIVA Manchester United Membership card

Subscribe to the Manchester United Membership Card and enjoy an array of incredible benefits and experiences!

To become a member, visit a VIVA stores and apply for the Membership package at only BD 29/season for VIVA subscribers and BD 39/season for non-VIVA subscribers.

• 4 places to fly with the first team to watch Manchester United play in Europe • 4 chances to meet the new manager, David Moyes • 30 opportunities to watch the Reds play a match at Old Trafford • 10 opportunities to watch the first team train in Carrington • 10 autographed shirts by 11 first team players For more information, visit viva.com.bh Terms and conditions apply.

What’s On

Not To Be

Missed For more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 118 - 121

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan Live-in-Concert

An evening of musical extravaganz with renowned Pakistani artist Rahat Fateh Ali Khan; music lovers galore.

When: 10th January Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre (BIECC) For more information call on, Tel. +973 1769 8880 or email: savio@epicconceptsbh.com

Bahrain Airshow 2014

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan

A 5-hour spectacular aeriel treat featuring aerobatic displays by civil and military aircrafts, heritage village, family entertainment and more!

When: 16th to 18th January Where: Sakhir Air Base Opening Hours Thursday, 16th January Public Day Opening: 10.30am - 03.15pm Friday, 17th January Public Day Opening: 10.30am - 3.15pm Saturday, 18th January Public Day Opening: 10.30am - 3.15pm For tickets and other information visit: bahraininternationalairshow.com

Art Festival

Art connoisseur get set to witness the work of established and upcoming artists from across the as they showcase their talent as well as sell their work in various disciplines including painting, sculpting, fashion designing, music, photography, calligraphy and pottery.

When: 15th to 18th January Where: Al A’ali Shopping Complex

Image credit: Rasha Yousif

kulttuuriuutiset.victoriamedia.org

10 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Strauss Festival Orchestra Vienna

The Ministry of Culture Bahrain hosts one of Europe’s leading ensembles, preserves the genuine Viennese musical culture and proclaims the eternally young fascination of Viennese music.

When: 9th January Where: Bahrain National Theatre

What’s On

Not To Be

Missed For more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 118 - 121

Inside India Art Exhibition

An art exhibition by Bahrain based photographers Haya Al Khalifa, Rasha Yousif, Saji Antony and Stephanie Ravel which will coincide with the Republic Day of India.

When: 21st January 2014, at 7pm Where: Bin Mattar House

Inside India Art Exhibition

‘Big Ron Atkinson’

A surefire fantastic evening with football legend, Ron ’Big Ron’ Atkinson. Big Ron is one of the best speakers with a hilarious take on life and in depth tales and stories about his time at Manchester United, Aston Villa, West Brom and Athletico Madrid. Plus … his recent stay in the in the Celebrity Big Brother house. Plus … Comedy from a top UK Comedian Peter McCole and music from our live band.

When: 20th February Where: The Diplomat Radisson Blu Tickets: BD25 each including a gourmet dinner

12 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Bahrain Road Runners

Do half a marathon and stand a chance to win cash prizes and trophies.

When: Registration until 5th January ONLY; event on 10th January Where: Seef Mall For more information visit bahrainroadrunners.com or email: info@bahrainroadrunners.com

Autumn Fair

The 27th Bahrain Consumer Products’ Fair; indulge in some retail therapy.

When: 21st January Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre (BIECC) For more information call on, Tel. +973 1755 0033 or email: fawzi@aeminfo.com.bh

Amwaj Market Season 4 Shop till you drop at Amwaj; the much awaited Amwaj Marina Market is back!

When: 4th January Where: Amwaj Marina

Optica

Optica and LINDBERG will hold an exclusive vernissage privé of ultra-luxury eyewear. Present at this invitation-only evening will be Henrik Lindberg, founder of the award-winning design company LINDBERG. Among the designs at this private viewing will be a LINDBERG Precious gold frame mounted with no fewer than 60 natural pink diamonds and an exclusive first look at the sophisticated 2014 LINDBERG Precious and LINDBERG Sun collections, recently premiered in Paris.

Feature

Don’t Turn Into

Bridezilla Visit Wedding & Fashion Arabia.

The premium bridal and fashion exhibition will take place on the 27th, 28th and 29th of March 2014 at the Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Centre, Hall 2.

O

rganised by Vallay Media, Wedding & Fashion Arabia is all set to bring together 100 regional and international leading suppliers for the biggest and most luxurious bridal and fashion exhibition. Your wedding day is one of the biggest days of your life! While you want every detail from the venue and your outfit to the buffet and the colour of the napkins on the tables, to be perfect, you also want the whole event to go as smooth as a smoothie. Worry not!

Wedding & Fashion Arabia is the solution to all your wedding woes.

If you need ideas for your big day or want to meet the wedding specialists in person or are simply then this is the must-attend event of the year for you.

The 3-day exhibition will showcase the regions elite and premier industry suppliers and will create the perfect opportunity for fashion enthusiasts and couples-to-be to meet face-to-face with all the specialists

14 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

under one roof. Visitors will also be able to experience make-up and hair-styling tutorials by day and 3 to 5 fashion shows by night where both local and international designers will showcase their latest collections.

The industry experts at the exhibition include flower arrangements, designer stationary, jewellery, exquisite wedding cakes, gifts and chocolates, venues and resorts, honeymoon escapes and romantic getaways, bridal fashion from wedding gowns to grooms attire, evening wear and accessories, hair and makeup professionals, entertainment, photographers, transport...you name it they have it!

Participate in Wedding & Fashion Arabia

If you are a Fashion Designer or Wedding Specialist, there is no better place to showcase your products and services!

Get up close and personal with your core market whilecreating perspective bookings, building relationships and showcasing your true potential.

For more information or to book your stand visit: wfarabia.com or email: info@wfarabia.com

MALABAR GOLD & DIAMONDS

Terms & Conditions Apply.

EVERYONE WINS

100,000 GOLD COINS & UP TO 1 MILLION CASH BACK Until 2nd February 2014

WIN 100 GOLD COINS

UP TO CASH BACK

ON EXCHANGE

Spend BHD 300 on gold and diamonds to get a ‘Scratch & Win’ coupon and win a guaranteed gold coin or up to 100 gold coins instantly.

Get a ‘Scratch & Win’ coupon with every diamond jewelry purchase for a guaranteed cash refund. Up to 100% of the purchase can be won.

Bring your old 22K (916) gold jewelry and walk away with fashionable new designs of the same value.

INSTANTLY

100%

0% LOSS

GOLD

MANAMA: GOLD CITY - +973 17006916 RIFFA: 1ST FLOOR, LULU HYPERMARKET - +973 17007916 care.malabargoldanddiamonds.com www.malabargoldanddiamonds.com

OVER 100 BRANCHES SPREAD ACROSS UAE, OMAN, BAHRAIN, SAUDI ARABIA, KUWAIT, QATAR, SINGAPORE & INDIA

Interactive

Becomes Interactive!

As the marketing and advertising industry is calling for and geared towards increased online use, Bahrain Confidential has answered back by launching our BRAND NEW and happening, interactive website.

A

fter a long and thoughtful process, we have equipped the site with all the features that hard core surfers expect to utilise (or use) and was designed by our very own in-house Web Design team PRODESIGN. The site is designed to be non complex with a broad range of interactivity at the same time. It serves as an extension to our monthly issues but allows our content to become more current.

We will be updating our society and blog on a regular basis. So check us out weekly as we will be blogging about the buzz around Bahrain. Our site will also include all our regular sections enabling us to create a live record of the best features that have appeared throughout the year.

THE BEST PART: What makes us truly unique? Our unique concept of Bahrain Confidential TV’ (Exclusive Youtube Chanel), dedicated to what’s going on in Society LIVE. You may have already heard of it as we’ve been fine tuning this over the past two months. But from now many of the events we attend will be filmed and uploaded onto our website. This enables our audience to really grasp just how fun and funky Bahrain’s social scene has become. So make sure you’re nice to Mark our camera man!

In making Bahrain Confidential’s online presence truly user friendly, we have interconnected our social media accounts enabling our readers to like and view pictures along with our Twitter, Google+, Youtube and Linked In pages. So guys, Confidential now offers you everything – from social media through to your monthly magazine. We are now a one stop publication for all your needs.

If you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to reach us through … info@ArabianMagazines.com ENJOY the New Year!

To get rocking visit

www.bahrain-confidential.com

16 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Art Space

Chaos In Me

Nadine Art Gallery co organised the 3rd Annual Exhibition for Bahraini Female Artists, at the Art Centre. The exhibition displayed the work of 28 Bahraini and 2 expatriate artists.

Bahrain Confidential showcases a few of them.

Shaikha Abeer Al Khalifa

An English literature and history graduate, Shaikha Abeer Al Khalifa is an eco friendly artist. She draws her inspiration from Islam, poems, cultures and books and believes that art is in everything around us.

In addition to other exhibitions, she has participated in all three all three Bahrain Female Artists Annual Exhibitions.

Huda Al Shaikh

Having grown up in a family of artists, Huda Al Shaikh believes that her work continues to be influenced by her family members.

She wants her art to strike a chord with the spectators’ memories. Huda finds painting to be the perfect medium to share her thoughts and feelings with others.

Areej Rajab

After her first solo exhibition, Florals, in 2010, Areej Rajab has participated in a number of other art shows.

She holds a Diploma from London Art College and has also been a part of many youth exhibitions through the Bahrain Arts Society.

18 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Art Space

Kady Mattar

In addition to being an artist, Kady Mattar also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature from the University of Bahrain.

She has exhibited her work at many art shows and exhibitions both in Bahrain and outside. She is also a Member of the Bahrain Arts Society.

Amina Al Abbasi

The owner of an art gallery herself, Amina has showcased her work at many exhibitions, both solo and group. She has also been a part of exhibitions outside Bahrain, in places like London and other GCC countries like Kuwait, Dubai and Doha.

Wassan Al Sawad

Wassan is an interior designer by profession and an artist as well. She has participated in a number of art exhibitions and also did a live painting, at Al Dar Island, in 2009. She is a member of the Bahrain Art Society.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 19

Art Space

Sarah Al Aradi

An oil based artist, Sarah has a bachelor’s degree in Arts and Humanities. In addition to participating in the 35th, 36th and 37th Bahrain Annual Fine Art Exhibitions, she has also participated in all three Bahrain Female Artists Annual Exhibitions.

Feryal Al Bastaki Feryal started drawing with pencil and charcoal and moved on to poster colours after graduating.

She has trained under the expert guidance of renowned Bahraini artist, the late Ahmad Baqer.

Mayasa Al Sowaidi

Mayasa’s work has graced the front covers of many books and she has been a part of many art exhibitions and workshops. She is a member of the Bahrain’s Art Society and has an MBA from New York Institute of Technology.

Visit Nadine Art Gallery in Abu Ashira, Adliya.

20 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Editors Pick

Roamer Wrist Watch

BD190

CERRUTI 1881 Cufflinks

BD56

CERRUTI 1881 Cufflinks

BD44

What

BD106

Gant Wrist Watch

Men want

BD106

Accessories can make or break your look; step-up your style with these – your armswag for the season.

TAG Heuer Meridiist Mobile

Roamer Wrist Watch

BD195

Available at luxury stores across Bahrain.

22 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Advertorial

Malabar Gold & Diamonds Festival The 3rd edition of the festival will be on until 2nd February.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds launched the 3rd edition of its Malabar Gold & Diamonds Festival (MGDF) in GCC & Singapore. This much-awaited festival is one of the biggest jewellery events in the GCC and gives the customers a fantastic opportunity to win a total of 100,000 gold coins and 1 Million Dirham instant cash refund.

‘Everyone Wins’ at MGDF! What you can win?

For every purchase of gold or diamond jewellery above BD300, customers will get a ‘Scratch & Win’ coupon through which they get a guaranteed gold coin and a chance to win up to 100 gold coins instantly.

If it is a diamond jewellery purchase, the customers get a ‘Scratch & Win’ coupon for a guaranteed cash refund with a chance to win up to 100 per cent cash back.

Customers who buy diamond jewellery worth BD300 or above are eligible to get both the coupons.

The group also offers ‘Zero Deduction Exchange’ scheme through which customers can update their old ornaments to the exquisite collection of Malabar Gold & Diamonds without any loss. Any 22 carat old gold ornaments can be exchanged with the latest Malabar Gold & Diamonds designs by paying only making charges.

Visit Malabar Gold & Diamonds at Gold City, Manama. Tel. +973 1700 6916 and Lulu Hypermarket, Riffa. Tel. +973 1700 7916.

24 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Interview

“Ma’akum” With You

On 15th February 2014, the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) will be holding their twenty eighth term elections to select a new board. Although, at this stage the expected turnout for those running for the seats cannot be predicted, what has been confirmed is that a group of sixteen prominent business leaders are working together under the banner of “Ma’akum” (With You) and lobbying for sixteen of the eighteen seats available on the board. These sixteen leaders aim to represent

26 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

and become the voice of small to medium private businesses in Bahrain.

The fifteen men and one woman group are being headed by veteran businessman and Shura Council Member Khalid Almoayed, who is Chairman of both AK Almoayed Group and Khalid Almoayed & Sons. Khalid Almoayed was able to find time from his very busy schedule to explain to Rebecca Smith what they hope to achieve if all sixteen members are elected onto the BCCI.

Interview What is the purpose behind Ma’akum?

We’re a group of professionals from the private sector who range in age and experience. Some of us have held board seats at the chamber before, while others would be bringing fresh perspectives to our institution. Our team is very diverse. We’re seeking to strengthen the Bahraini business community’s influence by unifying its voice in economic matters. We want to push for further economic growth and strengthen Bahrain’s role as a regional trading hub. We also want to make it easier for businesses to operate in the Kingdom by lobbying for a reduction in red tape and bureaucracy to encourage more investors and businesses to set up over here.

In your opinion do you feel the government doesn’t consider the private sector when creating new policies?

The government is doing a good job, but we believe that small and medium business are not represented sufficiently when it comes to crucial decision making that affects the business community particularly the private sector. I believe if all sixteen of us can be on the new board we will be able to highlight many key issues and raise the importance that the private business sector plays in the community. The government tends to take care of the labour side of things. So the more serious representation there is from the private sector the better it will be for business and the community as a whole.

Are there certain issues that you wish to address immediately?

Obviously there are lots of issues that we’ve already been discussing. But I would rather wait and address them in my campaign.

We’re also working with the current board by sharing our views which is enabling us to get feedback from them. Many of the current board members already support the concept of Ma’akum.

What happens if all sixteen members are not all elected onto the board of BCCI? Currently I understand there are around fifty people campaigning to be on the board and eighteen people are going to get elected regardless so I have to be realistic. That said I’m very confident about everyone’s backgrounds and our basic understanding of how the board work; also, we all share the same mission and vision to make it succeed.

Are you making any special preparations to ensure that you’re all elected?

Just lobbying, none of us can guarantee

that someone is going to vote for us. But what I do know is that all businesses in Bahrain - small or large are suffering from this current stale mate that Bahrain finds itself in. Particularly small companies who cannot address many of the problems they’re facing on their own. Therefore the body of the chamber can deliver their grievances to the power that is and get something done for these businesses. The main criteria at this point is to try and achieve peace and tranquillity in the business community and then try to address cohesion at all levels.

I’m a small business owner and have been affected from the current political problems. How is Ma’akum going to benefit me?

I can assure you that your voice will be

heard if we get in. Among many other things there will be opportunities made for business owners such as yourself to air your grievances and once these problems are heard and understood, they can be tackled. If we can help solve the problems you’re facing then you will be in a position to offer better employment packages and job security which will benefit the community.

Do you think this will help to bring business back to Bahrain?

We want to make it easier for more businesses and investors to come to Bahrain and set up. By doing this we have to work towards improving the overall opinion that the outside world currently has of Bahrain.

Any country that wants to prosper needs outside investment. The current state of the economic market cannot continue otherwise more businesses will begin to suffer which in turn will increase unemployment that will affect the next generation of graduates further damaging Bahrain.

With the on-going political problems in Bahrain, how are you going to change international perceptions of Bahrain?

I think the political situation is far better and

stable now as compared to 3 years ago. But obviously we hope for more stability. We have no intentions of getting involved in the political side. The government is sufficiently capable of taking care of that. No matter what the opposition is, everyone has to find a way to making a living and by achieving tranquillity and peace everyone prospers. Therefore it makes sense for the business community to work hand in hand with the government and everyone else in the community.

Do you think people are not aware of how much the private business sector contributes to the economy?

I think the whole community is not sufficiently aware of the wants and needs of the business community. The private business sector employs more people than the government and the community needs to acknowledge and appreciate this.

If Bahrain was to become more stable, do you think many of the businesses that left would come back?

Yes, most definitely as Bahrain has many things to offer. It has a very high level of education and also a high standard of living; it’s safe in general and very accepting of other cultures and nationalities. But we’re competing with countries in the region that have had exceptional success while we’ve taken a step back because of the current problems.

That said, we still have the best atmosphere for setting up businesses. It’s important that we highlight these positive things.

Many Bahrainis believe that working for the government is better than working in the private sector. How are you going to change this?

The general perception, especially in the lower to middle management sector is that a government job is much easier and better paid. This attitude isn’t healthy for anyone, particularly as it can foster a lack of ambition.

The private sector needs to educate fresh graduates that there are many benefits of working in a private company. We offer training, education and a chance to better oneself and improve one’s career prospects.

Most government jobs don’t offer this! That’s why it’s essential for the private sector to play a bigger role in vital policy making as essentially it’s the bread and butter for everyone in the community. Bahrain should be booming and causing stiff competition for its neighbours in terms of economic success.

Then everyone in the community will benefit.

This is what we hope to achieve under the banner of Ma’akum

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 27

People

WHOARE THEY? Khalid Almoayed

Khalid Almoayed & Sons WLL (KAS) is a family-owned limited liability company, formed in 1998.

The chairman, Khalid Abdulrahman Almoayed is a renowned member of the Bahrain business community, who has served as Managing Director at his father’s company, AK Almoayed, since 1973. In the late 1990s, Almoayed ventured into an independent business stream and set-up his own corporate identity.

Over the years, various investments in the public and private sector rapidly added up to a sizeable portfolio of enterprises. Additionally, Almoayed has been chairman or director of several public and private companies he is also an active member of the Shura Council.

Ahmed Abdulla bin Hindi Ahmed bin Hindi joined the family business group in 1989 and currently holds the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer position. He is an active representative in several organizations such as Chairman of the Bahrain Businessmen Association and Bahrain Communication Users Association. As well as sitting on numerous boards Ahmed also sits on the board of the Young Arab Leaders.

28 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Mohammed bin Adel Fakhro

Deema Al Haddad Deema Al Haddad is an established businesswoman and an active part of the social and business community in Bahrain. Al Haddad currently holds numerous prestigious positions and is also a Founding Board Member at Bahrain Car Dealers Association.

She is also renowned for her expertise in Human Resources and recruiting and is an active member of the Bahrain Businesswomen Society.

Khalid Ali Al Ameen Khalid Al Ameen, a Marketing and Communications graduate from University of Huston Tillotson, Texas is well known for his entrepreneurship skill and great support towards the private sector of the Kingdom.

Among many other business boards Khalid currently holds a position as the Chairman of the GCC Commercial Arbitration Center. He plays an active role in contributing to education.

Sayed Kadem Essa Al Saeed Kadem Al-Saeed’s professional reputation and excellent expertise enabled him to gain several certificates of honor for his work and efforts. Also, Al-Saeed is part of the Secretary General of Justice and Development Association and is renowned for his participation in the 8th World Chambers Congress held in Qatar and hosted by the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry in April 2013, as he was the first Bahraini to ever participate in such an event.

Othman Sharif Al Rayes Othman’s extensive experience within the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry has positioned him as a Treasurer and Board Member for the last five sessions. In addition, his expertise has also placed him as the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Joint Business Council with Iran, Hong Kong, Tunis, Morocco, India and Pakistan.

Mohammed Sajid Mohammed Sajid, a respectable Board member of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Chairman of the Gold Jewellery and pearl committee of Bahrain, started his successful journey as a gold smith. Sajid started his own manufacturing unit as a result of his efforts of trying to promote Bahrain’s name through retail and wholesale outlets in the jewelry sector in the Middle East.

Mohammed bin Adel Fakhro has spent much of the past decade devoting his time to the field of entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship (the latter being entrepreneurship within an established entity). He has done this by creating his own companies as well as developing new companies within his family’s holding business. In 2007 he formed MBA Fakhro Group to organize his various personal activities under one umbrella, and to improve coordination among the various entities, in addition to acting as a holding company for his holdings in his family’s companies.

People The Ma’akum Panel consists of sixteen prominent business people. Below is a very brief biography of the members who are all lobbying to be selected to sit on the board of the Chambers of Commerce. In order for them to represent and be the voice of small to medium size private businesses in Bahrain.

Abdulhameed Al Kooheji Abdulhameed Al Kooheji is currently the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the AbdulJabbar Kooheji Group as well as the Tires and Allied Business of the AJM Kooheji Group, which shares a solid partnership with internationally renowned Bridgestone. Kooheji’s great support towards education in the Kingdom of Bahrain has led him to becoming a Board member in Hawar School.

Isa AbdulRahim Isa Mohammed AbdulRahim is the Chairman and Managing Director of Hafeera Group WLL, a multidimensional company that he established in 1983 after gaining immense experience from his small construction company called MARK in 1968, and then Hafeera Contracting Company.

Moreover, Isa Abdulrahim has widely contributed to the Sports and Leisure sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain and has earned several positions such as a Board Member of the Bahrain Olympic Committee.

Ali Hassan Mahmood Ali Hasan Mahmood has gained many years of experience in top executive positions in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Upon returning as a Business Administration graduate from the UK, Ali took charge of Hasan & Habib Sons of Mahmood Group of Companies, a family food business his father and uncle founded in the late 1940’s.

He positioned the business to become a leader in the local food industry.

Mohammed Farouk Almoayyed Mohammed Farouk Almoayyed is the Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Almoayyed International Group, one of Bahrain’s leading business houses. As a promising entrepreneur, Mohammed Almoayyed has actively participated in the group’s business activities since the year 2000. He also extends his managerial support to the parent group YK Almoayyed’s automobile dealership business of Nissan & Ford.

Nabeel Khaled Mohamed Kanoo As a supportive member in the Tourism sector of Bahrain, Nabeel Kanoo holds a Directorate position in YBA Kanoo in the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Board, Kanoo Travel Co UK & France and a Board Member of the Ministry of Tourism in Bahrain.

Kanoo’s continuous support towards enriching the Bahraini economy has granted him an opportunity to be reelected as Board member in the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Jawad Yousuf Alhawaj Jawad Yousuf Alhawaj is the President of Al Hawaj Group of companies. A Marketer, visionary, Philanthopist and true statesman, Jawad hold key positions in various private sector and semi government organisations. He started his career in the early 1960’s by importing world renowned perfumery and cosmetics product. Establisher of the business house, AL HAWAJ, the leading name and market leader in the field of luxury retail business in Kingdom of Bahrain.

Adel Al Safar Adel Al Safar is the Chairman, Al Safar Group Holding WLL. Within a span of three decades Al Safar expanded his business in line with the market needs and spearheaded many companies that are part of Al Safar Group today ranging from IT, Real Estate, Food & Restaurant and many others. He began his career as a Data Processing Manager at Gulf Air Bahrain in 1979 and ventured into business in the year 1984 with Computer World.

Abdulhakim Al Shemmari Abdul Hakim Ibrahim Al Shemmari holds a Masters of Business Administration as well as a diploma in Political Science, along with a degree in accounting and a diploma of commerce.

He currently occupies the following positions: Chairman of the Board of Directors in Al Amal Commercial and Industrial group, Chairman of the Al Shammari Real estate group and founder of the Abdulhakim Ibrahim AlShammari Foundation.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 29

Poetry

Now’s Past In Featured Futures,With Future Moments Passed Asks, David Hollywood, “As we discard memories of the old year in favour of thoughts about the new can we recall how just a year ago we thought what is now past would be the future? Whereas now has been and gone!”

As we look towards the future, What happens after now, Takes place before what’s passed can be, In time with pasts we see.

Impending times we think are cast, In moments yet to feel, As memories of what becomes, Events not past, or real.

And so before we’re here to be, In future thoughts of how, The moments passed were waiting, For pasts not yet for me.

David Hollywood

Image Credit: artspan.org

Preceded by departures, Not gone till moments come, And present moments futures, Have pasts since being one.

To get in touched with David, email: thewineappreciationsociety@gmail.com 30 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

New In Town

Shop Till You Drop What: twenty4 in Bahrain Mall

So what if the festive season is over. Shopping is not seasonal! Established retail group BMA International brings you the ‘twenty4’, your one-stop fashion destination. Catch the Autumn-Winter 2013 collection including stylish apparel and accessories for men, women and kids at highly competitive prices.

Bahrain Confidential fills you in on the who, what, why, when and where in Bahrain and the region!

New In

Town Mondo Italiano!

What: Oliveto Restaurant in Adliya

Oliveto, Bahrain’s favourite Italian fine dining restaurant had its grand re-opening after a tragic blaze that gutted the space in 2011. The restaurant now has a newly introduced outdoor deck which is accented by mature Italian olive trees, a spacious dining room and a cozy dining lounge.

Bringing Back History 32 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

What: NBK Museum, Headquarters of the National Bank of Kuwait

The National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) inaugurated the first museum of its kind in the Middle East. It features extensive multimedia tools that highlight the bank’s history and also old artefacts and rare documents that tell the story of the founding of the bank and its stages of development.

Beauty Tales Salon Bride to Be Promotion Package for BD100 Only!

Full body wax Full face threading + Colour/Henna for brows Body peeling Oligodermie Paris Professional Facial Full body massage Spa manicure, Nail Extension, Essie polish Spa pedicure , Essie Polish Paraffin wax treatment for hands and feet Hair spa Romantic Blowout or a choice of wavy hairstyle Tel. +973 1733 6667 Fax. +973 1733 6900 Mobile: +973 3679 1910

New In Town

Meat-Lovers Alert

What: The Butcher Shop & Grill at Bahrain City Centre

If you love your steaks then this is the place for you. Does the variety juicy, succulent and exotically-spiced meat even come to an end here? May be not! A must-dine destination for sure.

All Work & No Play …

What: Pre Teen Play Lounge at Seef Mall

Play has launched an exciting play lounge for pre teens that offers fun activities ranging from cooking and crafts to gaming and music. Let your child explore its imagination!

What’s Your Lucky Charm?

What: Pandora at Bahrain City Centre

Danish high-end jewellery brand, Pandora has opened its first store in Bahrain. Personalise your bracelet by with charms that define you – there are a variety to choose from. There are other pieces like earrings, pendants and rings too.

COMPETITION!!!!!

Tell us why you would like to dine at Golestan, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel and win a Business Lunch for 2 at the fine dining restaurant!

Send in your answers with your full name and contact details to competition@ ArabianMagazines.com

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 33

Opinion

Letter From Bahrain John Ridley shares heart-warming Poppy ‘tales’.

Poppy (Centre) with John Ridley and his son

S

he always knows when I’m preparing to return to Bahrain, her behaviour changes long-before I start my packing. This time was no exception, working in the kitchen, writing at my desk, or relaxing with my wife by the log fire, she’s by my side.

In her younger days, when she heard the “Skype ring” (yes she knew), Poppy would join my wife to listen to our conversations;

34 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

these days, as she grows older, her hearing is not so good. At her age, getting in the back of the car is difficult, but given half a chance, she’ll be in the front before my wife or I can take our seats.

As usual, by mid afternoon, she tells us “it’s time”; coats and shoes on, and dog lead in hand; the three of us set off - into the cold winter sun.

Most days we walk her through fields and woods above our home, the little fishing town of Lyme Regis. The woods are full of badger sets and scent of the deer living amongst the

John R Ridley

“In her younger days, when she heard the “Skype ring” (yes she knew), Poppy would join my wife to listen to our conversations; these days, as she grows older; her hearing is not so good. At her age, getting in the back of the car is difficult, but given half a chance, she’ll be in the front before my wife or I can take our seats.” trees; in the spring, the ground is carpeted with blue bells and wild garlic. Everyone we meet takes time to talk to Poppy.

Today, my wife and I are walking over the hills along the coast, enjoying the bracing air blowing in from the English Channel. There’s a tiny cafe high on the cliffs, we stop to enjoy a warming drink; Poppy, ears flapping in the wind, investigates long deserted rabbit holes.

Walking back home, there’s plenty of opportunity for her to roll in the grass; the expression on her face is clear, “please tickle my tummy.”

At home, she knows that tea and cake follow the afternoon walk - another reason to stay close by my side.

After a wonderful break with my wife and son at home, it’s time to get back to work; there are things to research, people to interview, articles and books to write, and radio programmes to make.

Goodbyes are always tearful; come the final hugs with my wife and son, Poppy is by our sides John Ridley is a Bahrain based journalist, writer, and broadcaster, visit his web sites at www.ghostwriting.me or www.johnridley.nu

Feature Parvathi Ramanandan and Bahrain Confidential’s Melissa Nazareth explore the island for soulful, untold stories.

Portraits of Dilmun E very day we see faces.

We waddle through a sea of faces; happy faces and sad faces; hopeful faces and angry faces; dejected faces and surprised faces. What if each of these faces had a story to tell? Portraits of Dilmun gives a voice to the many beautiful faces in Bahrain with a tale to tell only if you’re willing to listen.

Noor Al Shaikh was taking a look at the stalls, at Market 338 when we spotted her. She anchors the popular TV show ‘Hala Bahrain’ on BTV. “What do you feel is the most awesome thing about your job?”

“Meeting new people is definitely one of the wonderful things about being an anchor. Also for me, routine kills. We shoot from different locations. So each day there is something new. I love change.”

“What did you feel was the turning point of your career?”

“The first day of my second year as an anchor. This is my first stint as an anchor. My team and I had a lot of doubts in our minds.

We had heard a lot of criticism and there were moments of self doubt; moments when we almost gave up. But we overcame all that and in the second year we emerged more confident. I am really happy that we persisted and did not succumb to the pressure”.

“What do you want in life?”

“I just want to enjoy and have fun. I feel that everybody is caught up in this race for a good job, a happy family, a better future and they forget to savour each precious moment.

I don’t want that to happen to me.”

36 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Noor Al Shaikh

Feature “Do you get a lot of friendly customers?”

“I just feel that if I am friendly then my customers will be friendly back to me.”

“What inspired you to set up this antique shop at the Manama Souq?”

“Tourism. We need to promote Bahrain as much as we can. People here have a lot of creative ideas to offer. That’s how Alibaba Caves was born.”

“Alibaba Caves?”

(Chuckles) “Yes, that’s the name of my shop!”

“Can we take a picture of you?”

“Oh yes, of course. Is the camel in the frame? Please capture my friend, the camel as well.”

Waheed

Julie Buchta

We were looking for interesting stories on board Logos Hope, the floating library that was in Bahrain, when a cute little voice stood out in all the noise there.

“Is this my book?” asked Faris. “No sweetie, that’s a mommy book,” replied Julie.

Faris and Julie are this really cool teacherstudent duo. “I was his teacher last year, but we’re buddies now,” she said. What does Julie dream for her students? “I want my kids to learn that there are good people in society and that they have to contribute to society.

They need to accept differences and not reject them.”

images by Parvathi Ramanandan

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 37

Feature

Bonnie

We met Dwa’a at an art exhibition by women artists.

“Are you an artist?”

“No, I’m a footballer. I play for Bahrain’s Women’s National Team.”

“Do you think women athletes in Bahrain get enough support?”

“We’ve been around for a decade now and I must say that the moral and financial support we have been receiving has only increased over the years.”

“You’re name?”

“Dwa’a.”

“Oh so that explains the ‘D’ on your chain!”

“Yes (smiles)!”

“I work for a New York based jewellery company. I am from Hong Kong and am here for the jewellery exhibition.”

“How did you get into this field?”

“I love jewellery especially chunky pieces. My favourites are earrings and small chokers; I have around 33 pairs of earrings that have been designed using various precious jewels most with a cross motif; I like cross motifs!”

“The fascination with the cross, is it due to religious sentiments?”

“No. I am a Catholic or rather I used to be. But somewhere down the line there was a difference of opinion between God and me. I do still believe in Him but in a more universal concept of Him; we are not really on talking terms.”

Dwa’a

38 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Visit Portraits Of Dilmun on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Portraitsofdilmun If you have an interesting story to share then email portraitsofdilmun@gmail.com

Messages

Bahrain Confidential chats with a few readers about the year gone by and their hopes for 2014.

New Year

Messages Is there any news story (local or international) that had a great impact on you?

As a South African, our nation grieved over the death of Late President Nelson Mandela who passed away on the 5th December 2013. Nelson Mandela was, quite simply, one of the most inspirational people who ever lived, for people across races. If we remember him, and all that he stood for, this world will be a better place.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

As the Marketing Manager for Al Hasan Holding (Optica, Sunglass Hut and Da Sole) I want to drive business forward. It is also very important for me to maintain personal and professional happiness.

Christine Deklerk

Christine Deklerk Marketing Manager for Al Hasan Holding

What was the highlight of 2013, for you?

I got engaged to my best friend. I am blessed with the most supportive, humble and caring fiancé and he is HOT too! What a catch!

Did you learn any valuable lesson in the past year?

I learned a very valuable life lesson that we must surround ourselves with positive people and value true friendships. Give everyone the opportunity to be a friend, but share your dreams and goals only with those who value them as much as you do.

40 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

If you had magic powers and could make one change in the world then what would it be?

If I could make one change to the world I would instantaneously eliminate global poverty. I have done a lot of missionary and outreach work in Africa, and there is nothing that saddens my soul like the realisation of people’s living conditions and their fight for survival.

Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions? Have you kept any and do you have new ones for the coming year?

Believing in New Year’s resolutions is one thing and keeping them is a completely different ball game (laughs). My motto and New Year’s resolution for 2014 is ‘love more and worry less’.

John Ridley

BBC Journalist, Closet Chef and Bahrain Confidential Writer What was the highlight of 2013, for you?

2013 was a very tough year. My wife fell ill and though this impacted every aspect of our lives we overcame all the challenges which strengthened our relationship. We are closer now than at any time in our 22 years together and new professional opportunities emerged for both of us.

Did you learn any valuable lesson in the past year?

As a child I was taught to cook, but with frequent travel, eating out was normal - I’d forgotten how to cook; 2012 was a struggle as I adapted to the restrictions imposed by a gluten free diet - my options were to go hungry, or re-learn to cook. Learning to cook

John Ridley

Messages

“Yes I do believe in setting goals and resolutions. There are some resolutions that I kept and some I just keep carrying forward. My 2014 resolutions include travelling more, learning about other cultures and sharing more of my work.” opened up a whole new area of journalism for me; Middle Eastern current events and food writing have a surprising amount in common!

Is there any news story (local or international) that had a great impact on you?

The Middle East has been my home for most of my adult life, and I’ve been privileged to have worked extensively in the Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon and Jordan. I have witnessed and understand something of the suffering of displaced people; I’m shocked and saddened by the growing numbers suffering through war and conflict.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

I must get the second gluten free cook book written and ready for the publishers, and finish my book on Palestine. Oh and there is the ongoing PhD in contemporary Middle Eastern studies - I have a busy year ahead, If you had magic powers and could make one change in the world then what would it be?

It would have to be a resolution of global food poverty and water shortages.

to the destruction of major historical and cultural sites in the country. I regret not having travelled to Syria before these problems. It is a great country and I hope it recovers soon.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

I hope to be recognised as a Bahraini artist on an international level and I aspire to add value to the community that I live in.

If you had magic powers and could make one change in the world then what would it be?

I think religion is the cause of most worldwide conflicts. If I had a magic power I would make everyone have the exact same faith and no sects. I hope this in return will make the wars stop!

Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions? Have you kept any and do you have new ones for the coming year?

Yes I do believe in setting goals and resolutions. There are some resolutions that I kept and some I just keep carrying forward.

My 2014 resolutions include travelling more, learning about other cultures and sharing more of my work. Also my biggest resolution

is to learn more from great Arab travelers like Ibn Battutah and Ibn Jubair and try to follow their footsteps.

Elie Maalouf

Media Manager - Al Nasher Adline What was the highlight of 2013, for you?

The birth of Maeva, my sweet little angelic daughter.

Did you learn any valuable lesson in the past year?

I learned a lot in 2013 on various aspects but the most valuable lesson was ‘You are what you eat’; eat healthy and you live a healthy life.

Elie Maalouf

Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions? Have you kept any and do you have new ones for the coming year?

If I was to make a New Year’s resolution, it would be to stick to New Year’s resolutions.

That said, my wife and I have, both resolved to make 2014 the best year yet for our family.

Is there any news story (local or international) that had a great impact on you?

Well, certainly. I was really happy when Dubai was officially announced the host for the 2020 World Expo out of so many other countries.

Rasha Yousif

Bahraini Photographer & Artist What was the highlight of 2013, for you?

2013 was quite an eventful year. From getting a promotion at work and travelling to new destinations to establishing myself as a photographer and doing a solo adventure to the Vietnam, it was all great!

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

Peace of mind.

Did you learn any valuable lesson in the past year?

The biggest lesson I learned this year is to isolate myself from people with negative vibes and avoid arguing or associating in hopeless discussions.

If you had magic powers and could make one change in the world then what would it be?

I would spread love and joy in abundance across the globe.

Is there any news story (local or international) that had a great impact on you?

I guess it would be the problems in Syria and the massive human loss in addition

Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions? Have you kept any and do you have new ones for the coming year?

Well I do believe that where there’s a will, there’s a way (smiles)!

Rasha Yousif

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 41

Messages

Katarzyna Richter

Cross Cultural Psychologist & Yoga Teacher What was the highlight of 2013, for you?

It was a year of personal decisions and changes, catching up with my family and cultural events in Europe.

Did you learn any valuable lesson in the past year?

I have started practicing yoga on a stand up paddle board and was teaching yoga classes on the lake. I have also developed raw food culinary skills.

Is there any news story (local or international) that had a great impact on you?

I have been impressed by the ongoing development of the social media. It has become a tool used in recruitment, diplomacy, civil services, education and many more fields.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

I am hoping to finally start research for my book which I’ve wanted to write for some time now. I am positive that 2014 will be the right time to complete this project.

If you had magic powers and could make one change in the world then what would it be?

I would make people more emotionally secure. Lack of psychological resilience and insecurity brings out the worst in human beings.

Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions? Have you kept any and do you have new ones for the coming year?

New Year is a great time for making resolutions as it gives people hope for a change. Personally I set my goals at the time I feel I’m ready, when I know I have enough motivation to fulfill them.

Baraa Abdulla

Baraa Abdulla

BTV News Presenter, Stand-up Comedian, Emcee & Actor What was the highlight of 2013, for you?

Oh there’s a whole list of them including losing 19 kilograms and 24 inches, buying a new car, emceeing for big scale events, performing stand-up comedy with amazing local comedians, and acting in Bahrain’s first ever Zombie movie Dead Sands. Also, my son turned two this year and it makes me very happy!

Did you learn any valuable lesson in the past year?

I learned new techniques in stand-up comedy and emceeing. I took to a new eating habit and now live a healthier life style.

Is there any news story (local or international) that had a great impact on you?

Yes, there was this story of a guy who managed to beat cancer by drinking fruit and vegetable juices for 3 months. I’m not sure if it was true but it left an impression.

have gone with the follow and worked with the hope of getting things done. I wanted to concentrate on my health and thank God I achieved my goal’; I’ll be carrying it on in 2014 as well.

Bahrainipreneur

One of the founding members of Bahraini Bloggers What was the highlight of 2013 for you?

I guess the highlight of 2013 would be the big development in the blogging scene in Bahrain. I started to blog in 2011 and there were a handful of active bloggers then.

Now we have many more bloggers which is great because each blog enriches the social media scene. Also on the entrepreneurial support side, 2013 saw a lot of events in Bahrain dedicated to promoting home business which I think is a great step toward empowering entrepreneurs to better establish their business ideas.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

I hope to be a better news presenter, perform at the Jeddah comedy club and make more career oriented progress, have a fitter body, support my wife to pursue her higher education and increase my income.

If you had magic powers and could make one change in the world then what would it be?

I would make it more peaceful.

Katarzyna Richter

42 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions? Have you kept any and do you have new ones for the coming year?

I’ve never really focused on resolutions but

Bahrainipreneur

Messages in this life, I think I’m blessed with all people around me, my family and friends. I can’t ask for much seriously.

Did you learn anything new in 2013?

A life lesson, to always maintain a positive outlook towards life and there is always a lot of good around, we just need to open our hearts and minds to see it and appreciate it.

Was there any news story (international or local) that made a big impression on you in 2013?

I don’t watch much news to begin with, but I do follow what is happening in the local scene.

One of the things that left the biggest impact with me is the number of new charity initiatives established in Bahrain in 2013 via social media and the impact these initiatives have had on improving the lives of fellow citizens and residents of Bahrain. These initiatives fill me with pride and hope to see our youth taking a proactive approach to make a positive change in someone else’s life.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

To keep inspiring Bahraini youth through my blog and showcasing entrepreneur success stories.

If you had magic powers and could make 1 change to the world – what would it be?

I would have to say believe in the power of positive thinking and everyone can make a difference in this world.

Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions – if so have you ever kept any and are you making them for 2014?

I stopped making goal lists a few years back.

In a way I think goal lists limit us to getting certain things done by a certain date, when our lives are continuously evolving and thus our goals will change/grow continually. My approach is “go for it NOW “! So whatever I want to get I take action to do it now.

Sumaya Dashti

Communications & Brand Manager Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain What was the highlight of 2013 for you?

Personal wise, I met amazing true friends this year, I met my best girlfriend Maggie Day who is from US and we quickly became great friends, I also met Josh and Gloriant who I consider to be my ‘brothers’. But just from different parents. Career wise, I feel I’m more professional and self-developed over all. But overall, I have discovered myself, what I want finally and what I am aiming in this life.

Did you learn anything new in 2013?

Every year I learn so many things, I learned how to be more open-minded with others, not to judge anyone and respect different opinion. I also learned how to swim. but I’m still not that good. Career wise, I’m more open to social media techniques and aware of different applications that can generate

44 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Patrick Aoun

Director, Group Plus What was the highlight of 2013, for you?

I’d say being successful on all levels despite the challenges which were harder than previous years; they forced us to work harder and double our efforts.

Sumaya Dashti

revenue to my hotel (Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain ). And I’m a very good chef but have learnt to cook even better than ever.

Was there any news story (international or local) that made a big impression on you in 2013?

Yes, during the holy month of Ramadan business was a bit slow in the kingdom. So I decided to challenge myself and give the hotel a chance to win an international award.

So I prepared a folder talking about the hotel’s different department in detail including its revenue and sent it to London for an entrée of best international airport hotel in Arabia. I received a call in October informing me that the hotel had been nominated and I need to attend the award ceremony in Dubai.

We won best international airport award 2013 in the entire Arabia region. It was incredible and well worth the effort it took to be entered.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

Self-development along with an opportunity to get promoted or transfer to a bigger organisation/-position with more tasks and responsibilities, I also want to get married this year and open my own beauty consultancy centre.

If you had magic powers and could make 1 change to the world – what would it be?

I seriously would remove the word hate from this life. I will let everyone fall in love with each other and let people live in a life full of nice stuff and pinkie roads, blue skies. A life that has no worries. Just like the movies … hahahah. I wish I had the magic stick to use whenever I can, in a good way though.

Do you believe in New year’s resolutions – if so have you ever kept any and are you making them for 2014?

Yes I do believe in resolution, I think there must be a start for an end till you get your goal. I do keep some resolutions in my life such as staying fit, exercising, be closer to my family. But I always fail in saving money.

Every year I say I will save lots of money but I fail all the time. I don’t realise how much I spend (hahah). But I’m a very happy person; whoever knows me feels the good vibe being with me. I cherish every single thing about my life, I think god offered me much

Did you learn any valuable lesson in the past year?

On an educational level, I try to learn something new every day. You have to be able to add value to everything you do. As for life lessons, the more you succeed and climb up, the more you leave people behind you Is there any news story (local or international) that had a great impact on you?

Unfortunately, the whole world has been full of surprises this year. In my opinion 2013 had more bad news as opposed to good news (even on the economy and nature front) which I hope will not happen in 2014.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

Always set a minimum 30 percent additional forecast on top of what you achieved the year before, on all levels. I really compete with myself to reach a level of self satisfaction level in everything I do, and I always look for more.

I really wish to have a year full of success on all fronts including family, profession, sports and friends.

If you had magic powers and could make one change in the world then what would it be?

The world nowadays needs more than one change; but I’d say I would try to stop all wars as this is urgent. My real wish though would be to have no more poor or sick people, especially children.

Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions? Have you kept any and do you have new ones for the coming year?

I think that New Year is just another normal day, but it’s importance to me. It’s a day to evaluate my previous year and set objectives for the coming one.

Patrick Aoun

Cucina 2nd Anniversary bahrain_confidential 1.pdf

Arabia’s most intelligent magazine … for Arabia’s most intelligent individuals The multi-award winning Arabian magazine

The Arabian Review

Issue 108

BAHRAIN

Manama Dialogue

REAL ESTATE 2014 Trends

ECONOMY

Complimentary Copy

2014 Outlook

Bahrain BD2

KSA SR20

Kuwait KD1.75

Oman RO2

Qatar QR20

UAE DHS20

Gulf-Insider.com

January issue (#108)

on sale now! Only BD2 GulfInsider is bold, insightful and reaches GCC decision makers. Distribution includes: shop sales, home delivery to VIPs, 5 Star Hotel Concierge and Club lounges, First and Business Class lounges, private jet fleets, ARAMCO, and at exclusive events. Our exclusive subscriber database, one of the most valuable databases of VIPs in the world, and includes leaders in business and government including CEOs and senior executives, government ministers, ambassadors, and the region’s high spending consumers.

GulfInsider exclusive interviews have included: Sir Richard Branson (entrepreneur), Christine Lagarde (head of the IMF), James Wolfensohn (former president, the World Bank), Mary Robinson (UN Commissioner for Human Rights) … and many more!

read GulfInsider online - visit

www.gulf-insider.com

1

12/22/13

4:04 PM

Messages race (during my lifetime) cannot be measured.

I thank him for being him and for living passionately and purposefully. May his soul rest in peace, with love and respect.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

In 2014, I would like to lay the foundation of starting a non profit organisation on a smaller scale to help the children of Malawi. We have been ranked as one of the happiest people in the world which is good but there is a lot of poverty in Malawi. I hope to be part of all the people who take their time and resources giving back to help the children one at a time.

If you had magic powers and could make one change in the world then what would it be?

World Peace! Although I grew up in the US, I am very much close to my roots of Africa, especially my country Malawi. If I could change something in this world it would be the delivery of healthcare in Africa. Recently a childhood friend of mine was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had to travel to India for chemotherapy because they do not have the resources in Malawi. Need I say more?

Something has got to give!

Zayn Al-Qahtani

Zayn Al-Qahtani Blogger

What was the highlight of 2013 for you?

The best days for me personally, were the Formula 1 and Christmas Day. In general though, I am so proud of how my blog has been growing, and I’m grateful to have grown a bit more mature spiritually and mentally as well.

Did you learn anything new in 2013?

I definitely did learn a life lesson - don’t hold back on things you want to do. Do it as soon as you think it.

Was there any news story (international or local) that made a big impression on you in 2013?

Not particularly, no.

What do you hope to personally achieve in 2014?

I hope to graduate high school and major in Fashion Design, which has been my life goal for as long as I can remember.

If you had magic powers and could make 1 change to the world – what would it be?

I’d definitely want to have everyone’s basic needs fulfilled - sufficient food, shelter and education for every single human being on the planet, which would in turn lead to universal contentment and happiness!

46 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Do you believe in New year’s resolutions – if so have you ever kept any and are you making them for 2014?

Yes, I do - a New Year is a fresh start.

Starting a blog was a new year’s resolution back in 2011 and look where that’s gotten me! I definitely am making a list of resolutions this year as well.

Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions? Have you kept any and do you have new ones for the coming year?

Totally! I always make a list of my resolutions and follow through with some but not most.

One of the resolutions I made for 2013 was to get back in shape and lead a healthy lifestyle. I am happy to say that I have stuck to it and feel the healthiest I have been in a while. For 2014, my only resolution is to continue to live life! Discover more of the world because there is a great big world out there of which we tend to forget when we are comfortable in one place. And of course continue to be a good mother, wife, friend and just a good person all around.

Mwai Exartier

Mwai Exartier

Manager - Hypoxi Gym What was the highlight of 2013, for you?

My trip to my home country this past summer! My husband and I had our traditional wedding and decided to also have our son’s baptism. Our friends from all over the world came to be with us. This was a defining moment for me because it showed how much we are loved!

Did you learn any valuable lesson in the past year?

Life Lesson: Cherish the ones you love, you never know if you will see them again because life is not promised.

Is there any news story (local or international) that had a great impact on you?

The death of Nelson Mandela, a great man who touched so many lives. His impact on our collective consciousness as a human

At Beautytales ... You are the fairest of them all!

Tel: +973 1733 6667 / Fax: +973 1733 0909 Mobile: +973 3679 1910 Email: Beautytales.bh@gmail.com Instagram: Beautytalesbh Address: Flat 11 Bldg 2270 Road 2833 Block 228 Al Sayh-Busaiteen (opposite to King Hamad Hospital) Opening Times: 9:00 – 21:00 Seven Days a Week

Fashion

BRAZILIAN BEATS 48 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Fashion

The Aigner Leather Collection Spring/ Summer 2014

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 49

Fashion

The colours of this leather collection echoes the intense and varied hues of South America: Bright, radiant shades of Pink, Yellow, Orange and Green mingle with subtlenuances of Gold, Terra and Nude.

50 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Fashion From street culture to the Amazon: The Aigner Leather Collection S/S 2014 takes you on a journey into the heart of Brazil – to the vibrant metropolis of Rio de Janeiro. The luxurious bag creations of the Munich-based leather lifestyle brand were inspired by fiery samba rhythms, the sweeping exuberance of the famous Brazilian carnival and Rio’s urban exotic flair. The collection also embodies the beauty and power of South American women in the exciting city.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 51

Fashion

Senior designer Christian Beck combines this urban joie de vivre with Brazil’s exotic nature.

Elaborate embossing patterns on the leather reflect the country’s lush flora and fauna: The surface structures of crocodile and lizard skin, raffia texture, hand crafted braided elements and Saffiano leather symbolise the richness of the rainforest

The collection is available from Paris Gallery, The Bahrain City Centre.

52 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

PERSONAL TRAINING Improve your overall fitness Reach & maintain a healthy weight Learn new skills Find the right way to work out

13th Floor, Al Safir Tower, Juffair. Tel.: 17 813 815, 17 827 999 (ext 1318) E-mail: healthclub@alsafirhotel.com

For advertising and other queries, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call, Tel. +973 1782 2363

BAHRAIN

American Southern Style Family Restaurant & Lounge Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Lana Peters, Osteopath Serving Real American Food in The Middle East since 1997 We are located in Juffair...Come see us!

DO. Bsc (Hons) Ost. Med. Osteopath in the Cranial-sacral field N.D. (Dip. in Naturapathy). Grad Dip (Animal Chiropractice) A.A.O.A. (Registered Osteopath). M.A.V.C.A

Relief from back pain, joint or muscle pain, sports injuries

+973 3919 7480

Grand Mosque Gulf Hotel

For a map of our location and to find out about osteopathy and how we can help you, visit our website:

Al Jazira Supermarket

www.backonthemove.com

 NSA

Email: lanadawnpeters@gmail.com

Tel: 17725550 email: ricsbah@yahoo.com Lana advert.indd 1

08/04/2013 22:49

Fashion

BD12

BD3.9

PARFOIS

BD4.9

Winter Collection

BD4.9

Add a touch of classic chic to any outfit with a selection of elegant party jewellery or make a bold statement with the season’s must have floral inspired earrings with coloured stone accents, perfect for that day to night transition.

This season Parfois also offers a variety of handbags from clutches and shopper bags, to messenger bags and bowling bags with reptile prints and quilted details being the most prominent of all trends.

BD4.9

Parfois is located in the Bahrain City Centre.

BD5 BD5.9 BD16.9

54 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Enhance Your Natural Beauty In Seconds!

Effortless Hair Extensions Provides A Quick And Easy Way To Add Body And Fullness To Your Hair in an instant.

Effortless Extensions Instantly gives you THE HAIR you wish you were born with! no clips

no glue

no tape

For FREE PRIVATE CONSULTATION by appointment call on, Tel. +973 1782 2388 or +973 3618 8122 Email: info@hairbybecca • Visit: www.hairbybecca.com

& no damage

Beauty

The Fragrance Of Friendship Chrome United by Azzaro shares the fragrance of friendship. It gives you a summery feel of adventure.

The tea-green heart of the fragrance combines the woody-smoky charisma of Ceylon black tea with an explosion of violet leaf. This fresh woody musky fragrance is worth the try!

BEAUTY

BUZZ BD37

Chopard Oud Malaki

Powerful, seductive and passionately masculine, Chopard Oud Malaki expresses the sensual personality of the Oud Malaki man, a lover of life’s finer pleasures and of beautiful objects. Chopard is here to offer you a more refined, structured and complex sensuality than the traditional oud fragrances.

56 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Beauty MARC JACOBS BEAUTY

MARC JACOB’s proud launch of their cosmetics line, MARC JACOB BEAUTY debuts with 120 gorgeous products.

Marc rightly defines beauty as imperfectly perfect. “I see beauty in many things and I am attracted to all sorts of imperfection, to style, to confidence or experimentation. It’s unexpected and surprises you.”

* Prices available on request

BD18

Makeup?? Yes Please!

You know you want this! This is Sephora’s first makeup academy palette that composes of 130 colours for complete eye, lip, and full-face looks.

Here is your chance to finally create thousands of different stunning looks. Go from day to night and playful to smoldering—all with one versatile palette stocked with easy-to-love tools.

See By Chloé

It’s a new perfume ritual. Thanks to the brush, you can gently apply fragrance to the skin.

It’s an original and refined way of wearing perfume in gentle touches, behind the ear or on the wrist. An addictive fragrance, See By Chloé gives you a new way to wear your favourite perfume any time any day.

BD5

BD79

BD4

Faux & Fabulous

False eyelashes are taking the fashion world by storm. Bourjois has the perfect range of hip and glamorous, extravagant or subtle false lashes. Faux & Fabulous false lashes are easy to apply and give a make-up result that is better than any mascara: volume, length and definition. So, what are you waiting for? Create your captivating eyes.

Unless otherwise stated, products are available at leading cosmetic outlets.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 57

Interview

It’s only been a while since you’ve joined Al Areen Spa. How has your experience been so far?

It’s been great so far. Previously I was in the US

“We have the largest facility in the whole of the Middle East sprawling 110,000 sq feet.”

A Fresh Perspective It’s been just 9 weeks since Tania Jane Varley took over as the new Spa Manager of Al Areen Spa. Bahrain Confidential takes a tour of the spa with her as she talks about her plans for the New Year.

Al Areen Palace & Spa bagged the award for Best Design Spa & Best Destination Spa at the MESPA (Middle East Spa Awards) held at Meyden Beach Club Dubai.

58 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

naval base in Juffair. So I’ve gone from one end of the market to the other as both concept’s are completely different. I don’t have formal training in the hotel spa sector itself but I’ve many years experience in The Health & Beauty Industry as well as being a qualified Hairdresser, Nail Tech, Make-up Artist and Fitness Instructor. When I saw Al Areen Spa for the first time, I sensed straight away huge potential here and it felt like home.

What do you think sets Al Areen Spa apart from others in Bahrain?

We are a unique destination. We are the biggest and most extensive Spa in the whole of the Middle East sprawling 110,000 sq feet and boost many in both Spa concept design and Spa therapy. In addition to the Royal Spa, we have Hydrothermal Garden, Garden Hamman, Health Club, Fitness & Wellness Studio and a Kid’s Club, where we have attendants who keep the kids busy with activities while our guests can enjoy spa treatments or a gym workout without having to worry.

What’s new for the New Year at Al Areen Spa? We’ve just introduced the Elemis skin care range at the spa. It is a high class UK based product range including oils, lotions, sea weed wraps and facial products. We also use L’Oreal and Matrix in our hair salon. As far as treatments are concerned, we’ve introduced the 4-hands Hawaiian Wave massage;involving 2 therapists working on one person and our Hammam Al Khozama Moroccan Scrub. We’re working on a number of promotions too. We intend to introduce a new spa menu to include day packages and 1 and 2 overnight stay packages.

Plans are in progress for a new organic healing café within the spa which will serve organic food healing teas, juices and smoothies.

What are your hopes for the New Year?

There are so many plans underway and I don’t want to divulge to much at the moment. We will be constantly changing this year and I look forward to promoting Al Areen Royal Spa as a Wellness type health farm concept, rather than just a spa. We’re also going to be introducing healing tours. We already have guests from all over the Middle East and I aspire to break into the European market. I want to divert this potential market from other Middle Eastern destinations to Bahrain For more information, visit: www.alareenpalace.com or call, Tel. +973 1784 5000.

Your dental health is important. Dr Ali Hussain Al Juffairy Dental Services provides top-notch quality services from the most basic to the most complicated dental procedures you require.

implants orthodontics fillings extractions root canals bleaching etc.

FOR WORLD-CLASS DENTAL SERVICES, THERE’S ONLY ONE PLACE TO GO.

Al Juffairy Clinic es!

Now moved to new premis Al Juffairy Clinic 6th Floor, Mashtan Building next to Almoayyed Tower

Book an appointment today.

Call +973 1727 3700 EMAIL: juffairy@batelco.com.bh

OPEN Sunday thru Thursday from 9am up till 6pm

Health 1. Wild Rice

Among other whole grains, wild rice is considered to be exceptionally nutritious. One cup (around 164 grams) of cooked wild rice can provide helpful amounts of B vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, protein and complex carbohydrates. One more advantage is that, just like actual rice, there are no traces of gluten in it. This makes it a safe alternative for those allergic to wheat. A recent study showed how wild rice was able to lower cholesterol and oxidative stress in the test subjects even after being fed with a high fat diet.

BD3.5

1

SIMPLE FOOD ALTERNATIVES CAN CHANGE YOUR DIET FOR THE BETTER! Now we’ve entered into the New Year. Have you managed to stick to any of your new year’s resolutions? Without doubt for many of our readers, we’re pretty confident the answer is no!

After a month of pure gluttony, one of the most popular resolutions is to get healthy, fitter and eat better. Easier said than done.

3

So Bahrain Confidential has compiled a list of healthy food alternatives that you can switch to for a healthier New You this year!

3. Camu Powder

Camu is becoming increasingly popular as a health supplement for its supposed antioxidant properties. There are claims that camu has anti-viral properties that can help with cold sores, herpes, shingles, and the common cold. Others say it’s a natural energy booster that’s great for your eyes and gums. It is also chock full of vitamin C: 60 times more per serving than an orange!

A teaspoon of camu powder has 1180 per cent of your recommended daily intake for vitamin C, which is important for gum health, among other functions in our body.

BD8.8

4 60 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

2. Goji Berries

Some people claim that goji berries are the next fountain of youth. The goji berry is also called the wolfberry. It is a bright orange-red berry that comes from a shrub that’s native to China. Research shows that eating berries like goji are filled with powerful antioxidants and other compounds such as a high source of vitamin A. Some studies using goji berry juice found benefits in mental wellbeing and calmness, athletic performance, happiness, quality of sleep, and feelings of good health.

BD12.5

2

4. Almonds

Almonds are tasty and nutritious. They lower ‘bad’ cholesterol. They protect artery walls from damage, help build strong bones and teeth.

Provide healthy fats and aid in weight loss, lower the rise in blood sugar and insulin after meals.

Almonds also help provide good brain function.

They nourish the nervous system and finally they alkalize the body. When your body is not alkaline enough, you risk osteoporosis, poor immune function, low energy and weight gain.

Do we need to say anymore?????

BD5.8

Health

6

5. Sea Salt

Sea salt naturally helps you to build up a strong immune system so that you can fight off the cold virus, the fever and flu, allergies and other autoimmune disorders. Sea salt is alkalizing to the body, as it has not been exposed to high heat and stripped of its minerals, nor does it have any harmful man-made ingredients added to it. Thus it can help you to prevent and reverse high levels of acids in the body, which in turn eliminates the risks for serious and life-threatening diseases.

It can also aid weight loss.

It helps the body to create digestive juices so that the foods you eat are digested faster, and it helps to prevent build up in the digestive tract, which eventually can lead to constipation and weight gain.

6. Organic Molasses

BD0.9

5.

The most important benefit of molasses is its high mineral content. One tablespoon of Organic Molasses contains 20 per cent of the daily recommended daily intake for calcium, 22.5 per cent of the daily recommended daily intake for magnesium and almost 40 per cent of the recommended daily intake for iron. Molasses as medicine helps cure: Chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, anxiety, and related nervous disorders, chronic ailments, such as arthritis and rheumatism, tumors and fibroids, Constipation, Heart palpitations, anemia, Acne.

BD2.6

7. Manuka Honey

Manuka honey has long had a reputation as a “healing” honey and because of the way it is made – expensive but a lot more beneficial than your average honey. It contains an extra, naturally occurring active ingredient, which makes it distinct from other honeys.

This additional component is known as UMF and the higher the UMF, the more potent the honey and its powers. It has antiviral and antibacterial actions, which is a good excuse for scoffing the stuff neat at the first sign of a cold or sore throat. It really comes into its own is in treating wounds. Also, thanks to the presence of an enzyme called glucose oxidase, it is acidic, which apparently adds to its unique antibacterial properties.

7

BD23.75

BD1.25

8. Pumpernickel

Finally ...

8

Eaten in moderation, whole grain pumpernickel is tasty, high in fiber, and rich in assorted vitamins and minerals and a healthy dietary choice.

One slice of pumpernickel bread contains 2.26 g of protein, .81 g of total fat, 12.35 g of carbohydrate and 1.7 g of fiber. Pumpernickel is low in fat and cholesterol-free, with one slice containing a diet-friendly 65 calories less than the amount found in an apple. The small amount of fat in pumpernickel bread is composed mostly of heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Pumpernickel is also high in natural phytochemicals called lignans, which have antioxidant and estrogen-like qualities. High intake of plant lignans is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer in some studies.

9. Rice Milk

9

BD1.75

Rice milk is the third most popular nondairy alternative next to soy milk and almond milk. Drinking rice milk supplies you with many essential nutrients via the bran and germ of this whole grain. Rice milk is the most hypoallergenic of all milk products it also contains a generous supply of balanced nutrition for those who are not able to tolerate other milk alternatives. It’s also cholesterol free, and therefore it works well for people with dietary restrictions on fat and cholesterol.

Warning: If you have diabetes, rice milk may cause a sudden sugar overload.

Therefore, you may be much better off drinking cow, soy or almond milk.

All products are available from Alosra Supermarket

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 61

Contributor

Are You Culture Clever?

Katarzyna Richter, Cross Cultural Psychologist discusses the importance of cultural intelligence.

“To be effective in another culture people must be interested in other cultures, be sensitive enough to notice cultural differences, and then also be willing to modify their behavior as an indication of respect for the people of the other culture.“ - Bhawuk & Brislin (1992)

H

aving lived in the GCC region for over a decade, cross cultural issues have always sustained my interest. This place is cosmoplitan by nature which makes it so important for us to sensitise ourselves to the various cultures both local and expatriate. Bahrain has been culturally diverse for at least 400 years, the local inhabitants come from many different countries and cultures including Afro – Arabs, Persians, Banyan (Indians who traded with Bahrain and settled before the age of oil), Bahraini Jews, Najdis and tribal communities.

In Bahrain you may encounter various styles of greeting depending on a wide range of factors, including the background of the person, their exposure and mindset. In my everyday life in the GCC region I have observed various forms of greeting like a kiss on a cheek (usually between the same gender), touching noses (usually between men), a prolonged handshake and placing a hand on the heart along with a slight bow.

Cross cultural issues are not just relevant in our social circles but also at our work place. Some employers assess cultural intelligence and the ability to adapt to a foreign culture during job interviews for the positions that require relocation.

A few competencies that these employers will look for in prospective cadidates are respect for differences, openmindedness, self control, resilience, ability to communicate with virtually anyone, high adaptability and empathy.

Ambiguity tolerance is another relavant topic related to cross cultural issues. When we move to a new place, certain amount

of pressure is inevitable. Imagine you have to settle yourself and your family into a new place which is stressful. On arriving at your new home the dreamy image of a sunny, tax free and multicultural paradise slowly vanishes; you may have problems with communcation due to the different accents and mindsets. You may find it difficult to

accept the different personalities that you meet, perhaps because they dont behave in the way you expect them to.

For instance, in some cultures people don’t greet somebody who has a ‘higher status‘ unless he or she speak to you first.

Cultural differences in basic things such as forms of greeting, eye contact and hand gestures can cause not only discomfort but can also lead to offensive faux pas. For instance, in Mediterrean countries it is customary to greet people with a kiss on both cheeks and in European countries men and women shake hands when they greet each other; this is not the case in the Middle East where a handshake between men and women may not be very common.

The best way to learn about another culture is to speak and interact with people of that culture.

In order to build better understanding try getting to know people from various backgrounds, even in your own country.

Social media can be helpful, websites like quora.com are great source of information.

Cultural awarness training programs are considered an investment as they provide knowledge on cultural differences, communication, ettiquete which often makes the transition easier and helps to avoid painful mistakes and mitigate the culture shock

You can get in touch with Katarzyna Richter via email: katarzynarichter@hotmail.com

62 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

PROTECT Your Smile EDITORIAL?

Poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. But by changing certain habits, you can improve the health of your mouth and teeth and lessen your risk.

While most of us associate dental health to just sore teeth and bad breath, neglecting dental wellness can lead to more than just that; it can open the door to all sorts of health problems, including some pretty nasty diseases like oral cancer. Researchers have found possible connections between gum problems and heart disease, bacterial pneumonia, stroke, and even problem pregnancies.

Gulf Dental Speciality Hospital (GDSH) understands the importance of your oral health. Modern dentistry advancements and

developments mean that today there are effective and painless treatments available to patients. GDSH keeps up with the latest trends in dentistry in order to make your dental experience a positive one. For 14 years the hospital has offered all dental services under one roof.

In addition to handling a wide range of dental cases, GDSH also offers the latest in dental equipment and treatments including all types of cosmetic treatment; for instance Lumineers which is known to give you the perfect smile! Also, long gone are the days

Image Credit: movinggoodforward.com

of a golden crown placed on your back teeth that are visible when you smile. GDSH gives you the option of Zirconium (a new metal free material) which has the same colour as your teeth while having the strength of metal so that it can do the tough job of chewing.

The hospital also has laser technology used in procedures like surgeries and gum treatment, which enhances healing and reduces the possibility of infections. GDSH is your safe haven for teeth and gums.

Hospitality

Y

OUR PERFECT GETAWAY

W

hether you’re in Bahrain on a holiday or for a business trip, the place where you stay makes a big difference.

Hani Hotels Bahrain offer you, your perfect home away from home experience at both its properties, Hani Royal Hotel and Hani Suites & Spa. Located in the one of the Kingdom’s most

64 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Where hospitality meets luxury. upscale district, Seef District, these properties are also at convenient distances from the main hubs in Bahrain.

The hotel offers a variety of rooms, decorated in both Italian or Arabic style, to make guests feel truly comfortable in the surroundings that best meet their tastes and styles. The Italian style offers modern furnishings, based on a monochrome palate, for the stylish and discerning customer.

Each room has individual and impressive touches that really give that wow factor, with modern feature bathrooms and the highest quality finish. Alternatively, the Arabic style, with its mixture of warm colours, ornate wood and colourful lanterns, provides a comfortable and homely atmosphere capturing the very essence of the Middle East.

With customer satisfaction at the heart of their philosophy, Hani Royal Hotel have anticipated and met the needs of its varied clientele. In addition to complimentary airport transfer, all rooms include satellite television, direct dial phones and 24-hour room service. For convenience and corporate travel, rooms are complete with complimentary

WiFi. Business travelers can avail of a dedicated home office area, ensuring that everything you need is there, in the comfort of your own room. Private conference facilities can also be made upon request.

After a hard day, the spa area is a tranquil place to unwind, with beautifully tiled Jacuzzis, in addition to saunas, steam rooms and highly trained therapists to ease out the tensions of the day. For those who like to stay on top of their game, the spa and wellness floor also houses a large, fully equipped gym area – complete with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the Arabian Gulf.

For families, the rooftop pool area has a selection of pools for the kids, in addition to an outdoor Jacuzzi, lounge and barbeque area for evening entertainment.

The international ‘H’ restaurant, located on the ground floor provides a wide menu of delectable food from 7am until midnight. You can also relax in the lounge area where the chilled atmosphere is perfect for an evening sipping mocktails or enjoying coffee and a chat with friends For more information visit: haniroyalhotel.com or call, Tel. +973 1758 1100/1711 1015 or email: reservation@hanihotels.com

Sadeq Abdulla

Think local, buy fresh

Bahraini Farmer

Alosra is proud to support local farmers and sustainable agriculture.

Help us to support local farming and regional produce while you get to enjoy fresh food and healthy living. Look for the ‘Think Local’ sticker on the freshest of produce at Alosra and enjoy buying local.

Follow us on @Alosra_Bahrain Alosra Supermarket Alosrasupermarket Saar 17 697558 Amwaj 16 033773 Durrat 77 770001 Riffa 17 750006 Insta

Travel

Pearl Of The Orient – Sri Lanka

P

lan a trip to snowy destinations, hill stations or deserts but an island holiday is something else. Popularly known as the Teardrop of India, because it appears as a giant tear drop falling from the southern tip of the subcontinent, Sri Lanka is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations that strikes the right balance between its historical and contemporary hotspots.

If sunbathing on the beach and adrenaline boosting mountain-trekking are your cup of Ceylon tea then December to March would be an ideal time to pack your bags and head to Sri Lanka. The beaches in the East Coast and North Central parts of the island are best visited from April to September. The Central part of Sri Lanka has a cool climate with rains, during mid year; so, if you’re the warm blooded holiday maker we suggest you choose this time.

Accommodation facilities are a plenty ranging from four and five-star hotels to budgeted guest houses and villas.

Commuting is not a hassle either; the easiest way to travel around the country would be in chauffeur driven vehicles – we recommend you make your transportation arrangements well in advance. The commonly known ‘TukTuks’ are quite fitting for a quick ride if you are in a hurry; just a heads-up, always negotiate the fare before you hop in.

Historical Hotspots, Food & Markets Sri Lanka has some beautiful beaches, greenery, heritage sites and wild life. The country’s South, East and West coasts are famous for their exotic beaches. The Central regions of the island produce some of the finest tea in the world and the rolling hills covered in lush greenery provide an ideal holiday atmosphere. The climate in this region is cooler compared to the rest of the island. Kandy, Anuradhapuraya, Dambulla and Galle are some of the most famous historical hotspots which are even listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The country has a number of wild life sanctuaries, rich with Asian Elephants, Leopards, Sambers, and various types of birds and fresh water crocs.

66 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Travel “If sunbathing on the beach and adrenaline boosting mountain-trekking are your cup of Ceylon tea then December to March would be an ideal time to pack your bags.”

Sri Lanka is famous for its spicy food. The popular and pungent ‘curry dish’ is definitely worth a try if you’re sure you can brave the heat. There are other mouth-watering street foods like Hoppers (pancakes), ‘Kottu’ (a meal ideally suited for dinner with a mixture of roti, vegetable and meat), and Prawn ‘Vadai’ (prawn patties). Sweet festive delicacies include ‘Kokis’ (crispy crackers) and ‘Kiribath’ (milky rice). Most restaurants serve Halal meat though there are a few outlets that don’t, hence it’s best to inquire before dining.

The island also manufactures superior quality garments and jewellery studded with various gems. Lanka’s ceramic industry is also very popular and produces some of the finest worth taking home. Even if you do not purchase anything, there will always be plenty of photographic memories to last a life time.

To book your holiday call Trabana Tours (Pvt) Ltd on Sri Lanka: Tel.+941 1244 1409 Bahrain: Tel. +973 1619 9129 Email: info@trabanatours.com Website: www.trabanatours.com Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/Trabana January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 67

The Turkish

Finest

Dr Temel Kotil (Centre), President and CEO of Turkish Airlines receives the award.

Advertorial

Turkish Airlines’ Accolade

T

urkish Airlines has been named the CAPA Airline of the Year at the 11th annual CAPA Aviation Awards for Excellence in Amsterdam. Dr Temel Kotil, President and CEO of Turkish Airlines, was presented the award by CAPA Executive Chairman, Peter Harbison at a gala ceremony.

The CAPA Airline of the Year is awarded to the carrier that has had the greatest impact on the development of the airline industry, has established itself as a leader and has set a benchmark for others to follow.

“Turkish Airlines has established itself as a formidable competitor in a geographic region that boasts many of the world’s leading airlines,” said Mr Harbison. “It has created the world’s largest international network and now reaches nearly 200 destinations from its powerful hub in Istanbul. Under the strong and visionary leadership of its management and

68 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

“The CAPA Airline of the Year is awarded to the carrier that has had the greatest impact on the development of the airline industry, has established itself as a leader and has set a benchmark for others to follow.” with the dedicated efforts of its employees, Turkish Airlines has forged an industry leading service culture, numerous innovative marketing campaigns and a consistently high quality product offering.”

“Turkish Airlines has successfully exploited its geographic position with an innovative fleet deployment strategy and it has successfully leveraged membership in Star Alliance and a wide range of bilateral codeshare relationships to further extend its global reach. All this is generating healthy

profitability and we wish Turkish Airlines even greater success in 2014.”

Dr Temel Kotil expressed that he and his team are happy and proud to have won such a distinguished award – the CAPA Airline of the Year. “This award encourages us to achieve and accomplish more and thus bring about more growth,” he added.

For further information visit turkishairlines.com or call on, Tel. +973 1751 6100.

Advertorial A spacious interior promises you, your private fun time with your friends

Turkish Airlines opened its new Lounge at Borussia Dortmund‘s Signal Iduna Park.

Well-groomed and well-trained staff cater to your every need with the highest level of hospitality and service

B

orussia Dortmund and Turkish Airlines celebrated the opening of the Turkish Airlines Lounge in the club’s stadium. The lounge can accommodate 200 guests and is located in the North-West section of the stadium and represents an innovation in Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park. Before and after each home game, as well during half time, an area of 430 square meters offers the highest standards of comfort to the Borussia Dortmund’s spectator box guests and business partners. The elaborate design of the new lounge area reflects the atmosphere of the renowned Turkish Airlines’ International Lounge at the Atatürk Airport in Istanbul.

Turkish Airlines covers new ground with this new Lounge. The service staff is dressed like the Turkish Airlines cabin crew.

The new facilities further feature exquisite culinary treats, which include a selection of the finest Turkish desserts, coffee varieties and also Turkish tea.

An array of Turkish Delights for you to feast on

for further information visit: bahcustomer@thy.com or call, Tel. +973 1751 6100.

You and your friends can cheer for your favourite team, at the lounge.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 69

Interview

Bahrain Confidential interviews Luc Bonnaz, Corporate Executive Chef at Le Chocolat. An expert in multicultural, classic and modern French, Italian, Middle Eastern, Polynesian and Asian cuisines, he has worked in Lebanon, Egypt, Norway and Dubai.

“We also have two other branches of Le Chocolat in the pipeline for 2014 in Saar and Busaiteen.”

Dishing Out The Best For The New Year as I have been part of the menu development and designing team and I love all the dishes; but from our new Le Chocolat menu, my favourite is the stuffed chicken with dry dates and spinach. This dish embodies a distinct fusion that brings together local taste and ingredients with a continental cooking method and presentation, and I certainly love the flavours.

What are your thoughts as you see 2014?

We are looking forward to 2014 as we have a lot of prospects lined up for Le Chocolat - café restaurant. We’ve recently made new additions to the menu at our branch in the Diplomatic Area. We’ve put in a lot of thought and passion into our new selection of dishes so that it complements the tastes of our customers in Bahrain. Our business is also doing great in terms of customer footfall; we receive a lot of customers from Saudi Arabia as well despite the weekend switch to from Thursday-Friday to Friday-Saturday.

What’s your favourite dish at Le Chocolat and why?

It is difficult to say what my favourite dish is

70 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Le Chocolat has an Italian cooking set up that is unique to the brand. Please tell our readers more about this.

Yes, Bella Napoli is our Italian pizza corner that offers traditional wood fired pizza. We’ve imported the special oven, wood logs and other equipments directly from Italy. We put great emphasis on the quality of goods used and the quality and consistency of our pizza.

Our Head Pizza Maker Giuseppe is an Italian and was flown in from Naples which is the city of origin of the pizza. He brings to Le

Chocolat an extensive experience and the knowledge of numerous traditional pizzamaking techniques which surely reflects in our scrumptious range of pizzas.

Any surprises or expansion plans for 2014?

Well, for now we’ve just opened up our new branch at ENMA Mall in East Riffa.

The furnishing elements combine a unique classic style that was used in the era of King of France - Louis XVI in the 18th century with a modern-day touch, colour and design. We also have two other branches of Le Chocolat in the pipeline for 2014 in Saar and Busaiteen.

Seef District: Tel. +973 1711 1144 Riffa: Tel. +973 1776 0043 Diplomatic Area: Tel. +973 1753 0666 Enma Mall: Tel. +973 7733 6000

Technology

About Me Social Media Executive @ VIVA Bahrain

Mohammed Zainal

With the rapid growth of social networks, Brands need to excel and add effort into building sustainable presence on social media.

On Social Media: The Voice of Your Business

Today Ali Alsabbagh will point out a few tips on how to stand out from the crowd on social media.

About Ali M Alsabbagh

Ali Alsabbagh is currently working in the Bahrain Economic Development Board.

He was the Social Media Manager of BATELCO. Alsabbagh was awarded the “Best Entrepreneurial” award Ali Al Sabbagh in Social Media Awards 2012 by the Bahrain Information Affairs Authority for his continuous efforts in promoting social media as commercial medium for businesses. In 2011 he has been appointed as a board member of the Social Media Club (Bahrain Chapter), where he was awarded the “Best Media Personality” award in Social Media Day 2012 Awards by the Social Media Club International.

Since 2011, Alsabbagh has been an appointed member of the Bahrain Polytechnic’s Curriculum Advisory Committee, responsible for reviewing the curriculum of the university’s Web Media degree. He is also a regular lecturer on Internet marketing in the UNIDO-ARCEIT Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion program (EDIP), and was a jury member of Bahrain eGovernment Excellence Awards 2013.

Furthermore, Alsabbagh is a Certified Internet Marketing Consultant and a Certified Digital Marketer by WSI Digital Marketing Consultancy since 2009. He is a board member and secretary to the borad of the Bahrain Youth Pioneering Society, and sets on the formation committee of the Bahrain eMarketing Society (Under Formation).

Social media allows us to communicate with the public at a faster and quicker pace than we could with offline channels. However, before interacting with the public using social media, your business must first establish its voice, i.e. the language and tone that your business uses when communicating with its customers. The voice of your business is a vital element of the overall brand identity, and it should accurately reflect the business objectives, while speaking to its target audience in a way that they will best understand. It is important to maintain consistency in the voice of your business in order to communicate authority, value and professionalism.

So, what should you be considering while defining the voice of your business?

Show Personality Nobody wants to hear from an unnatural, repetitive robotic voice. Remember, people should sense that they are interacting and conversing with a real person on the other side of the keyboard. So, do not be afraid to express personality through the voice of your business.

Speak in a Language the Audience Understands Avoid using jargons and overly pedantic or “composed” language. Speak to your target

get stay social informed

audience with a lingo that they can relate to, and consider content and conversations that are open-ended and invites responses.

Remember, it is a conversation.

Be Authentic Authenticity is the first step towards establishing credibility and it does not mean absolute transparency, but it does involve being honest with the public, especially when it comes to responding to their feedback, inquiries and complaints. Remember, your honesty - or dishonesty - can be quickly noticed on social media.

Establish Authority The best way to get the public to follow you on social media is to write and offer useful content that will bring value to them.

Social communications should be thoughtprovoking and build a sense of community.

Remember, if it helps the public improve knowledge, build businesses, solve problems, or understand your business better, then it is adding value and ultimately will help your business establishing its authority.

Be Timely and Relevant People use social media to find out what is happening now, so give them new and relevant content. Determine how often your business communicates on social media, and ensure that the voice of your business is heard when it is most appropriate. Remember; create some timely and relevant excitement about your business.

Powered by

Subscribe

Twitter: @VIVA_BH

Google +: +vivabahrain

Instagram: @VIVA_BH

Facebook: VIVA.Bahrain

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 71

Feature

Theqryat Radi, Yasser, Aqeel – Canon Company, Hussain, Nina, Mujtaba, Duaa Hassan, Abbas Salman and Ali

Sara

t i a r rt o P P HEL

ent. ed for the ev are then train e photographers d an e nc va ad thes of the event r portrait, elp Portrait, On the day ed, take thei me of funne e in id ne w ld eo or m fra a the w as find so em y ve it to th photograph for print it and gi e ea ies. or em m d event the id le as open to th fil , this event w associations ated in in ra ig or ah B ch In hi w any ok is ic and also m in Canada, to th general publ ns were invited. Bahrain on tio m sa st ni cipate rti pa orga d to place la an C C with try in the G tries and was met The the first coun e event. Over 66 coun s. id es w ld cc or su . w 13 is ge th hu it 20 in in Help Portra otographers participated t together ph gh ou br t d en an t movem pmen t: eir time, equi ose who are less formation visi who used th For further in p-portrait.com to th ck s ba er ve ph gi ra el expertise to Well photog community.h ow you ask? register in fortunate. H to ed ne ed rest who are inte

Abbas Salman, Katrin and Mohammed

H

Fatema Kamal

Zahar, Masoma Alhmdi, Ateeqh,Theqryat Radi, Zahra and Samch Duaa and Fatema

72 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

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

Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society’s Women Empowerment Programme

The Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society hosted a Women Empowerment Programme on 28th November at Mahooz.

Ahlam, Waheeda and Dr Jaffer

Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society members with Dr Jaffer Akbari

AWA Snowflake Craft Fair 2013

The American Women’s Association organised their annual craft fair on 30th November at Diplomat Radisson Blu.

Ghalib Al Oraib, Juzer, Lisa and Sreeni

Opening Ceremony by Aysha Al Zayed

Sally, Violete and Bianca

Haya, Ahmed and Maram

Eileen, Mary, Michelle and Megan

AWA members

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 73

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Christmas Tree Lighting at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel and Spa

A festive Christmas Tree Lighting was held at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa on 1st December.

Mark

Choir

Sebastian and Madeline

Arina and Lulwa Fatima and Mariam

Yasmine, Serena and Maria

Here We Go To Ibrida!

It was party nite at Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa on 21st November.

Lucy and Natasha

Zena and friends

Chloe, Jean, Dimitni, Nicholas, Alexia and Sophie

Jason, Gareth and Isac

Redia and friend

Zena and friends

Tony, Karen, Tom, Rebecca, Anushka and Peter

74 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Bahrain City Centre’s Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland returned to Bahrain City Centre on 2nd December in the Central Galleria.

Gareth, Smily, Duaij Khalifa Al Rumaihi, Zena and Mark

City Centre officials

Akshay, Vaib, Alanod and Bujjie

Cookies For A Cause

The Palm Association organised the event ‘Cookies For A Cause’ on 9th December at the Winter Wonderland Display, at Bahrain City Centre.

The Palm Association members with Kempinski and Bahrain City Centre officials

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 75

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Sheraton Bahrain’s Christmas Tree Lighting

A festive Christmas Tree Lighting was held at Sheraton Bahrain on 8th December.

Maria, Jay, Gumabay, Joven, Zamudio and Family

Daniel, Robert, David, Richard and Pirre

Malon, Gina, Lani and Chris

Sandra, Ledia, Maria, Myrn, Marly and Mark

Melissa and Katlyn Sara, Samer and Amal Shrejal, Spaush and Hadiya

Gatsby Fundraising Dinner

A Gatsby Fundraising Dinner was organised at Camelot restaurant on 6th December to support the charities supported Tony Waters aka Tony The Dogfather.

Adam and Candice

76 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Candace and Sonny

Armie and Susan

Julia, Vanja and Huda

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Grand Opening of Twenty4, the Fashion and Cothing Store Twenty4 opened its first outlet in Bahrain Mall on 27th November.

Hamad Fakhroo, Waleed Kamal and Sameer

Umer, Parwez, Kashif, Imran, Vipin and Ijaz

Waleed Kamal and Hamad Fakhroo in opening ceremony

Tewnty4 management

Oysho Slumber Party

Oysho, one of the premium lingerie stores at Bahrain City Centre organised a slumber party on 30th November.

Fatima and Raihana

Hala

Mariam, Insi, Sanaa and Shoug

Abeer, Martha, Ali, Yasmine and Sanaa

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 77

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Christmas Tree Lighting at InterContinental Regency Bahrain

Guests enjoyed a fun-filled Christmas Tree Lighting at the lobby, at InterContinental Regency Bahrain on 12th December.

French School official with InterContinental Regency Bahrain management

Michael Koth with staff

InterContinental Regency’s Corporate Client Appreciation Party

InterContinental Regency Bahrain hosted their year-end appreciation party for corporate clients on 9th December.

Michael, Najha, Kaizad and Collin

Peter, Sharon, Di and Rob Jehan, Hani, Shamil, Vivian and Rayza

Tjeerd, Irina and Graham

Liza, Toots and Lehng

78 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Oana and Augustus

Adel, Faiza, Nasreen and Ali

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Yaqoob & Guinane Crowned National Day Champions

The pairing of Bahraini Nasser Yaqoob and Australian Jane Guinane clinched the crown of the 11th Annual National Day Tournament at the Royal Golf Club on 18th December.

Shaikh Ebrahim (centre) with the winning duo, Yaqoob & Guinane

Shaikh Ebrahim with junior champions Al Habbal (left) & Babtain

Promotions at Primavera, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa

An event was organised at one of Bahrain’s popular Italian Restaurants, Primavera to introduce Guest Chef Guest Chef Vittorio Beltramelli and for Truffle promotions, on 27th November.

Claudia and Soufiane Zeina, Fatin, Claudia, Soufiane, Rebecca and Zena

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa management and guests

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa management and staff

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 79

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Chaine Des Rotisseurs Dinner

The International Association of Gastronomy organised a dinner for its members on 28th November at Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel.

Isabel, Fabrice, Olivier and Laurence

Mike, Pia, David, Ching and Michael

Iago, Chris and Bernd

Francesco, Panos and HE Alberto Vecchi

Al Zain Jewellery at Jewellery Arabia 2013

Al Zain Jewellery participated in Jewellery Arabia 2013 which was held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Suhaila

Fayad, Zuhair, Lana, Noora, Suhaila, Pradeep and Chetan

Lana and Karima

Rattesh and Ebrahim

80 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Al Zain booth

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Asia Jewellers at Jewellery Arabia 2013

Asia Jewellers participated at Jewellery Arabia 2013 which was held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Asia Jewellers model

Walid, Lakshmi, Deepak, Mohammed, Khalid and Nagme

lyana and Juana Jamal and Madhu

Yaseen, Mohammed and Mohammed

Celebrating the Arrival of the Beaujolais Nouveau Wine

The French Embassy and the Alliance Française, in partnership with the Bahraini-French Business Club and the Association Francophone de Bahreïn, hosted a gala dinner on 29th November at the Diplomat Radisson Blu. Gaidar and Olga

Salata, Jason, Charmain, Michael and Hilton

Sheirley and Mike

Thelna and Marius

Francois and Christophe

Keven, Sue, Risto and Kristina

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 81

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Cucina’s Italian Master Chef Competition

The Master Chef Competition was held on 12th November at Cucina Italiana.

Peter Lyons and Christine

Christine, Salima, Ruben, Cristina and Muriel

Rebecca Smith, Chef Fortunato Giordano and Peter Lyons

The 2013 GCC Technicians Skills Grand Prix

The 2013 GCC Technicians Skills Grand Prix was organised by Toyota at the Toyota Training Centre in Bahrain. The contest was held under the patronage of the Ministry of Labour on 27th November.

Mohammed, Michael and Waleed Kanoo

Toyota officials

The 2013 GCC Technician Skill Grand Prix participants

The judges

82 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Stephen and Louce

Jacky and Elaine

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Bahrain International Design Week (BIDW) Press Conference

The Bahrain International Design Week held their press conference on 17th November at The Domain Bahrain.

Rawia, Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Ali Hamad, Hisham Suleiman and Nejib Freji

Splash & Shoe Mart Store Grand Opening

The grand opening of the Splash & Shoe Mart store was held on 28th November at Seef Mall.

Shaikha Hind Al Khalifa with Splash Shoe Mart management and staff Kamal, Jayaram and Zaffer

Opening by Shaikha Hind Al Khalifa

84 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Joana, Lenny, Joan, Kapila and Pina

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Christmas Tree Lighting at Mรถvenpick

The young and the young at heart enjoyed a wonderful Christmas Tree Lighting at the lobby in Mรถvenpick on 1st December.

Julia, Talia, Sumaya and Sara

Choir Camren, Anna, Christina, Emily and Vilma

Guests Amanda and Isabella

Kallen and Luke with mum

Uma and Lorenzo

Thursday Night Brunch Raffle at Mรถvenpick

Guests enjoyed the Thursday Night Brunch Raffle Draw at Mรถvenpick on 12th December.

Nick, Hind, Sarah, Andrew and Sumaya

Sumaya, Charles, Vishal Shetty and Maria

Peter and Bernie Sumaya and Nezar

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 85

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Goa Lounge Grand Opening

The grand opening of Goa Lounge at Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant took place in the Adliya outlet of the fine dining restaurant on 27th November.

Liezel, Adele, Megan and Depy

Puneet and Lalit

Sue, Redia, Chelsea and Carolina

Gail, Cj and Hassan

Thanksgiving Buffet at Saveur, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel A thanksgiving buffet was held at Saveur on 28th November.

Mecklen Burg and family

Katie and Trevor

Rob, Alex, Lisa, Griffin, Kate and Victoria

Festive Season Opens at Kempinski Alexander, Avalina and Sari

The opening of the festive season was held at the lobby of Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel on 29th November.

Santa with the kids

86 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Puneet, Neeta and Sabina

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Flair Competition 2013

The Flair Competition 2013 was held at Brazil Lounge on 8th December.

The winners with the management and organisers

The audience captures the moment as the judges watch on

The participants in action!

Mixology

Melt Restaurant Official Opening

The official opening of Melt Restaurant took place on 21st December.

Abdulla Al Abasi with the Al Manzil Suites management Nick, Chelsea Sheikha and Abdulla

Melt restaurant staff

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 87

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

EuroMotors Media Lunch

EuroMotors hosted a ‘thank you’ lunch for media guests on 5th December at The Royal Golf Club.

EuroMotors officials with invited media guests

EuroMotors officials with invited media guests

Bahrain International Design Week (BIDW) - Around the City

Bahrain International Design Week held one of its sessions at The Domain Bahrain on 4th December.

Kareem, Marwa and Reem

Cat, Samer, Adnan, Natalie and Samuel

Momo and Paul

Khalthan, Haifa, Fatima and Mariam

Sausan and Saeed

88 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Mona and Perla

Claudia and Melba

Fatima and Faiza

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

The Lincoln MKZ Launch

The all-new Lincoln MKZ was launched on 4th December at a special reveal event hosted by Al Moayyed Motors, the local Ford and Lincoln importer-dealer, at Diplomat Radisson Blu.

Ali, Hassan, Jalal, Mohammed and Sundus

Andrew, Parithosh, Nick and Sandeep

Mohammed, Sandeep and Andrew

Shaikh Mubarak Al Khalifa and Andrew

Melissa Nazareth and VIVA Media Challenge 2nd placer Zena Williams

VIVA Cook-Off

VIVA hosted a cooking challenge for media guests on 8th December at The Royal Golf Club.

Karla Solano

Kannan, Gurdeep, Sudeesh, Probier and Thio

VIVA media challenge organiser and participants

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 89

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Official Launch of the Wine Flight

The official launch of the Wine Flight took place at Bushido on 2nd December.

Darja and Greta Gareth, Dan and Mark

Gloriant, Sumaya, Ali and Kambeez

Matthias

Bushido Beautiful staff

Abby, Jang, Lyca and Jenn

The 2014 Corolla Launch

The all-new Toyota Corolla was launched on 7th December at the Toyota showroom in Sitra.

Ismail and Shinichi Yasui

Khalid Kanoo, Isa Kanoo, Takeyama, Ismail and Shinichi Yasui

Zaid

Lubna, Linda, Natalie and Layal

Shinichi Yasui

Mohammed and Shaheen

90 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Ali and Mohammed

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Seef Junior Super Star

The auditions for Seef Junior Superstar were held on 6th December at Seef Mall.

Sofia, Elena and Rayana

Seef Junior Superstar audition

Hashem and Laila

Joud, Dima and Kenzi

Shahed, Thasneem and Mudar

BFH Cocktail Reception

A cocktail reception was held for the management of Bahrain Financial Harbour on 11th December at Regency InterContinental Bahrain.

Rafik and Michael Koth with BFH Management

Oana, Fadwa and Franny

Mohammed, Lena, Rafik and Jehan

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 91

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Azadea Bahrain Appreciation Night 2013

Azadea Group organised an appreciation night on 25th November at Al Dana Ball Room, The Gulf Hotel.

Sunita, Ramya and Helen

Pierre, Hussain Al Hawaj, Mohammed Jawad Al Hawaj and Ahmed Al Hawaj Fareed and Tarek

Hammad and Ebrahim

Ema, Cleda, Susan and Gel

Eman, Natasha and Jamal

Joana, Jennyfer and Amelyn

Alma, Sheidee, Shirley and Tanya

Fuad and Fadhi

Levi, Frenz, Bianca and Jacqueline

The Domain Bahrain Dinner

The Domain Bahrain hosted a dinner event for media guests on 5th November.

The Domain management with media guests

92 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Mylene, Mercedita and Grace

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

The Robinson Alligator Collection Launch

The Robinson Alligator collection was launched at Torch Bury, at Bahrain City Center on 24th November.

Nada and Mra

Louise

Othman, Ali and Khalid

Fozaza Styling at Michael Kors

Outfits styled by Alanoud Badr aka Fozaza were introduced at a special styling event, at Michael Kors in Bahrain City Centre.

Haya, Anoud, Shoug, Maha and Muneera

Hadeel and Fai

The models

Sawsan and Rawah

Jennifer, Georgiana and Sari

Nada, Ali and Lama

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 93

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net Duaa, Ali, Yousif and Abdulla

Tala Al Osra Christmas in the Park

Christmas fun was organised at Tala Island playground, at Amwaj on 14th December.

Young golfers Elena, Kasana, Maya and Tarek

Anna, Eduardo and Claudemir

Santa in person

Christmas Tree Lighting at The K Hotel

Guests enjoyed a festive Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the K Hotel on 1st December.

Jun, Kiel, Mari, Annie, Rogelyn and Dannie

Hussain, Doreen, Piya, Monica, Aysha, Nass and Mohammed

Elle, Marina, Francis and Normie

Ayla, Ella and Ray

Choir

94 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Choir

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Al Jazira Home Grand Opening

The grand opening of Al Jazira Home was held on 12th December at Zinj.

HE Dr Hassan Fakhro during the ribbon cutting ceremony

HE Dr Hassan Fakhro with Al Jazira management

Swarovski Boutique Post-Renovation Opening

The newly renovated Swarovski Boutique had its grand opening on 15th December at Seef Mall.

Al Hawaj management with guests

Abdul Aziz and Zena

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 95

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

The Butcher Shop & Grill Opening

The Butcher Shop & Grill opened its outlet at Bahrain City Centre on 4th December.

Azadea Group management and The Butcher Shop & Grill team Dalia, Fareed, Jeny, Smily, Zena and Gareth

Dalia, Stuart, Pierre and Raihana

U Drive Rent a Car Staff Party

U Drive Rent a Car hosted a staff party on its 3rd Anniversary, on 6th December at the Ramee Grand Hotel.

U drive management and staff

Christmas Tree Lighting at Crowne Plaza

Guests enjoyed a gala Christmas Tree Lighting at the Crowne Plaza on 5th December.

Crowne Plaza management and staff

96 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Skoda Octavia 2014 Launch

The all-new Skoda Octavia was launched by Ahmed Zayani on 4th December at their Skoda showroom.

Ahmed Zayani management and staff

Mark, Gareth, Zena and Saleh

Riyadh Al Zayani and Gareth

Help Portrait Bahrain

Bahrain was the first GCC country to participate in Help Portrait Bahrain, a global photography for a cause initiative. Over 60 countries around the world participated and the event which was held at Engineering Society at Juffair witnessed a fantastic turnout.

Help Portrait BH team

Help Portrait BH organisers

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 97

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Art of Living Dandiya Raas Event

The Art of Living Dandiya Raas Event was held at Best Western Olive Hotel on 25th October.

Bentley the New Flying Spur

The launch of the Bentley The New Flying Spur was held at the Bentley Showroom on 30th October.

Jasmet and Manpreet

Ahmed Al Hawaj, Jawad Al Hawaj, Dr Bashar, Laila and Hussain Al Hawaj

Mohammed, Mushtaq and Nadeem

Kostas Pssaris and Jean Artukmac

98 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Amoodi, Nasser Zayani, Mazen Al Omran and Dave Hayter

Holger, Mazen, Dave and Faisal Zayani

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Upstairs Downstairs Launch Event

Guests enjoyed a launch event at Upstairs Downstairs restaurant on 5th December.

Mohsin, Mirna and Hani

Ahmed and Zena with friends

Mo and Anna

Rogier, Stephenie, Hugh, Nick, Susie and David

Wine Tasting at Upstairs Downstairs

Guests enjoyed a wine tasting evening at Upstairs Downstairs restaurant on 16th December.

Mohammed and Zlatina

Hans, Tita, Mariam and Julia

Aileen and Violet

Internations Christmas Party

Internations Christmas Party was held at Bizarre Lounge, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel on 5th December.

Mariam, Jumazing and Agnes

DJ Mysterio and Hussain

Troy, Mohammed and Fraeed

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 99

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

40th Anniversary Celebration of KLM in Bahrain

The 40th Anniversary celebration of KLM was held at the Mercure Grand Hotel on 21st October.

HE Nicolaas Beets, Minister of Transportationthe Acting Undersecretary Ahmed Al-Nemah, KLMVP Dries Klein with Guest and KLM officials Dr Clare BeckettMcInroy and Geraldine

KLM cabin crew

Jap and Wendy

Jack, Dries Klein, Nasser Salmi, HE Nicolaas Beets, Deema, Mohammed Yousif and Tom

Aisha Yateem Family Counselling Centre The event was held on 29th October

Sherly and Faika

Khadeeja, Nawal, Widad and Ghaniya

Fatima and Raja

100 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Nada Yateem and Marie Yateem

Nawal, Afaf and Fawzia

Alaa, Noor and Manal

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel’s Christmas Tree Lighting A festive Christmas Tree Lighting was held at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel on 9th December.

Amber, Aya and William

Roshan, Hanane, Sami, Basel and Khalil

Santa

Sofitel staff Anthony and William

Essam, Marina and Yousef

Geogetta, Cyrine, Anthony and Charbel

Sofitel friendly staff and guests

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 101

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s Christmas Tree Lighting

A festive Christmas Tree Lighting was held at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain on 5th December.

Sharon, Eric, Henry, Jenny and friends

Guests

Laura, Linda, Sami and Thabet

Sheryl, Joy and Abhisha

Nelly, Katy, Floa and Amie

Bahrain Hotels Bellboy Race Debuts in Bahrain

The official launch of the first of its kind Bahrain Hotels Bellboy Race took place at MĂśvenpick Hotel Bahrain on 3rd December.

Bahrain Hotel Bellboy Race - Organisers and participants

102 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Mรถvenpick Sports Day

Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain organised sports day for its staff and team on 16th November.

The participating team with organisers and Mรถvenpick management

Christmas Tree Lighting at The Domain Bahrain

A festive illumination of the Christmas Tree was held at The Domain Bahrain on 6th December.

lmassa and Layla

Bobby, Lara, Keily and Arci

Patrick de Groot with choir

Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge

Season 5 of the Porsche GT3 Cup Middle East Challenge was held on 28th November.

Porsche GT3 Cup Drivers and officials with Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 103

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Elite Christmas Tree Lighting

A festive tree lighting was held at Elite Grand Hotel on 4th December.

Lana, Julia, Fofo, Sara and Rita

Hind, Rami and Anna

Nick and Anurag

Elite Seef Residence and Hotel Christmas Dinner

Elite Resort & Spa hosted a Christmas Dinner for media guests on 11th December.

Elite Seef Residence management with media guests

Chef Waleed El Saeed with staff

Prasanna, Sandeep, Rajneesh and Rajesh

Chuckle Club Charity Nite

The Chuckle Club hosted a charity nite event at InterContinental Regency Bahrain on 20th November.

Bunch of crazies

104 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Grand Reopening of Oliveto

After 2 years of anticipation due to the tragic blaze that gutted the restaurant in 2011, Oliveto re-opened its doors to the public on 5th December.

Shaikh Mohammed Al Khalifa and Shaikha Reem Al Khalifa

Rear Admiral Paulo and Shaikh Mohammed Al Khalifa

Erica and Nick Cooksey

Yousif and Robert

HE Alberto Vecchi and Shaikh Ali Al Khalifa

Claus and Abdullatif

Party at Kontiki

It was party nite at Kontiki Dimplomat Hotel on 13th December.

Sophie, Ashley, Hilton, Laura and Daniela

Nick, Daniela and Hugh .........

Irina, Alex and Indira

Helen and Tania

Nicola, Cody and Brett

Lee, Sophie, Pirre and Malak

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 105

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Al Rashid Group’s 5th ‘Beat Diabetes’ Walkathon 2013

Over 3,500 residents came together to raise awareness about diabetes during the 5th walkathon at the Dohat Arad Park in Muharraq which was introduced by the organisers and management at the Oasis Centre on 20th November.

Jason, Vikas, Dr Mariam, Mariam, Zafer and Vijay

Bahrain International Motorshow

The 4th Bahrain International Motorshow was held from 12th to 14th December at Bahrain International Circuit.

Wassim, Zaid, Mahmood, Khalid, Shaikh Salman Al Khalifa, Nawaf, Majid and Anthony

EK Kanoo officials

Mercedez Benz officials

106 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Al Areen Palace & Spa Christmas Tree Lighting

A festive Christmas Tree Lighting was held at the lobby, at Al Areen Palace & Spa on 5th December.

Al Areen Palace and Spa team

Cristina, Edwin, Najeeya and Dwyne

Cherryl and Donna

Hazel, Frances and Anna

The Filipino-American Association of Bahrain

The Filipino-American Association of Bahrain now on it’s 11th year held a Gatbsy styled event for the new officers induction ceremony and pre-Christmas party that featured raffle prizes and a Great Gatsby themed production numbers at Olive Hotel last 6th December.

Guest of honor Philippine Ambassador HE Sahid Glang joined the more than 200 guests for the event.

Philippine Ambassador HE Sahid Glang

Recognition of outgoing officers

Incoming president Tag and outgoing president Tony

Frankie, Bella, Harry, Kuh, Gilda and Travis

Charleston dancers

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 107

Business

Huda Mahmood Abdulla Janahi, owner and manager of Horse Pride receives the award

Tamkeen Beneficiary Wins Bahraini company Horse Pride, a Tamkeen beneficiary which specialises in equestrian equipment, won the “Most Outstanding SME Projects in the Arab World” in 2013 at the 8th edition of the Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Award for Young Business Leaders (YBL) which took place in Dubai. From January to September 2013, nearly 14,000 Bahrainis and businesses have benefited from Tamkeen’s programmes.

National Day at Bahrain City Centre Bahrain City Centre celebrated the Kingdom’s 42nd National Day by hosting fun activities and entertainment. Throughout the day, Bahrain flags were distributed to shoppers as they entered the mall national songs kept the patriotic spirit alive.

Business

In Brief

BizLadies Social Media Session Hill & Knowlton General Manager, Julia Atherton-Dandy did a presentation to the BizLadies Networking Group.

The presentation included research into the use of different methods of social media explaining how social media use in Bahrain alone has increased by 20 per cent in the last two years. Julia explained why government should use social media, how they use it, what channels work best and the impact of social media in terms of behaviour change.

3rd from right, Hill & Knowlton General Manager, Julia Atherton-Dandy

108 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Manager of Corporate Communications at BAC, Hussain Rasool, receives the award

eContent Award for BAC Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) won the Bahrain eContent Award 2013 in the e-Culture & Tourism category for the re-launched website bahrainairport.com. The new website allows users to roam between the BAC corporate portal and BIA traveler’s portal. It provides relevant information and services to the various audience including services like flight finder, flight notification via twitter or emails, and the airport interactive map.

Business Ericsson Celebrates 35 Years in Bahrain Marking the 35th anniversary of Ericsson’s first contract in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the company hosted a reception and gala dinner for key stakeholders from the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. The event was held under the patronage of His Excellency Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Communications.

Zain Group CEO, Scott Gegenheimer

Zain Technology Conference

Zain Group hosted its 3rd annual Zain Technology Conference (ZTC) at The Atlantis, The Palm Hotel, Dubai which attracted over 60 global technology partners. The theme of the Conference was ‘Innovating Zain’s Customer Experience’. ZTC also hosted an exhibition which displayed the latest innovations and solutions by its many partners including Ericsson, Huawei, and NSN.

Smart TV Apps of the Month This month, expand your mind and test your skills with the two brand new apps by Samsung.

TED Talks TED allows you to learn from some of the most intelligent and fascinating people around the globe. Available on smartphone, tablet and Samsung Smart

TV, this android app gives you access to nearly 1,400 audio and video talks on subjects that matter to you.

Tarneeb

Tarneeb is a card game app that it taking the Middle East by storm. Play in teams with others from around the world and defeat your competition by outbidding them on the virtual card table.

Rahim Abu Omar

The Gulf Hotel Appoints New General Manager

The Gulf Hotels Group has appointed Rahim Abu Omar as General Manager for The Gulf Hotel and Gulf Convention Centre. The new GM has over 29 years of international hotel management experience and has worked in the UAE, the UK and Lebanon. He was awarded the Hotelier of the Year in 2009, in Jordan and has also been recognised as one of the top 50 influential hoteliers in the Middle East in the same year.

Rahim Abu Omar has played a key role in the opening of 5 hotels including Metropolitan, Habtoor Grand in Dubai and Beirut.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 109

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.

BSPCA Animals

Calypso

Angus

Chopsticks

Josh

Crumbs

Ike & Tina

Muffles Carrots

Sylvester

Coolio

Misty

Wilma

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

Interested in Adopting?

Call Tony ‘The Dogfather’ Waters on Tel. +973 3962 9889 or visit www.thedogfatherbahrain.com

1 2

3 4

5

6

7 8

9

12

10 11

Do you have animal concerns? Need a vet? Call Animal Care Clinic in Hamala, Tel. +973 1761 2459 or Nonie Coutts, Tel. +973 1724 5515.

110 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Cars

CAR NEWS (From the left) Mahasum Shah, AA Bin Hindi Group Marketing Manager, John Joseph, KIA MOTORS Brand Manager, Lloyd Lourdes Mendes, Franchise Manager of Sixt rent a car and Mo’men Shawqi Ahmed – AA Bin Hindi Group PR & Media Manager.

Sixt Rent A Car Backs Up Their Fleet With 100 KIA Cars Sixt rent a car, Bahrain’s leading rent a car & Lease Company has recently received 100 KIA cars (40 Cerato, 40 Rio and 20 Picanto) from AA Bin Hindi, the exclusive distributor of KIA MOTORS in Bahrain to back their fleet. The cars were recently delivered to Sixt Yard at Manama. “We are proud to back up our fleet with another 100 KIA Cars and we

EK Kanoo Bags Award at GCC Skills Contest

are pleased to mention that Sixt rent a car provides fleet customers with world-class Rentals, Limousine and Leasing solutions, World’s best brands of cars, youngest fleet and highest customer service levels and those are the key factors that have driven Sixt to the top”. Says Lloyd Lourdes Mendes, Franchise Manager of Sixt rent a car. Sixt

rent a car a part of the Bin Hindi group under Bin Hindi Transport Co., which has four decades of business history and Sixt rent a car as whole has completed 100 years in the car rental business. Sixt has four outlets in Bahrain located at Juffair, Bahrain Airport, Exhibition Venue and Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre.

Ebrahim K Kanoo’s technician, Susanth Kumar earned the first position in the 2013 GCC Technicians Skills Grand Prix which was organised by Toyota at the Toyota Training Centre in Bahrain. The contest was held under the patronage of the Ministry of Labour. The contest focused on the general skills category through written and practical tests. The practical part consisted of 3 separate sections: Engine, Maintenance and Unit Repair.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 111

Cars

THE ALL-NEW ŠKODA OCTAVIA Now in Bahrain!

“The latest ŠKODA Octavia is available with the 1.4 TSI engine pumping 140 hp and the 1.8 TSI engine which gives 180 hp. The 1.6L is expected to arrive by mid of 2014.”

A

hmed Zayani & Sons launched the all new 2014 Skoda Octavia at the new Skoda showroom in Sitra. The new ŠKODA Octavia is not just roomy and functional, it looks good, too. ŠKODA Design Chief, Jozef Kabaň and his team have revised the car completely. Never before has a ŠKODA Octavia appeared as dynamic and at the same time as timelessly elegant, as distinctive, refined and assured on the road as this bestseller’s third generation.

The latest ŠKODA Octavia is available with the 1.4 TSI engine pumping 140 hp and the 1.8 TSI engine which gives 180 hp. The 1.6-litre engine model is expected to arrive by mid of 2014. Other models in Skoda are Fabia, Roomster, Superb and Yeti.

“Each line and gap breathes love of precision and detail. The new Octavia is an unmistakable face in the automobile crowd,” says Welsch, Skoda board member for technical development. More than 3.7 million Octavia’s have been sold worldwide since 1996. That makes the Octavia the undisputed best seller in the company’s 117-year history.

For your test drive visit the showroom in Sitra.

112 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Cars

The New Bentley Flying Spur ....... Sounds Big!

By Tom Lockhart, QGM, QCVS.

O

n my arrival at Ahmed Zayani’s Showroom in Zinj I was greeted and treated in a manner that you would only associate with an establishment responsible for one of the leading Prestige Brands in the world I was from the outset of the experience surrounded by an air of class, prestige and excellence..

In front of me in the showroom sat the reason for my being there, The New Bentley Flying Spur. My first impression of “It’s not very big” was exactly the wrong one! Despite the Spur’s compact sporty, sharp appearance it is in every way a Giant in the Luxury Automobile marketplace as are its brothers and sisters in the Bentley range.

The New Flying Spur Bentley has slightly, (and I do mean slightly) changed tradition and added a focus on sporty power and practicality.

I have to say at this point, they have pulled it off in spectacular fashion.

The design of the Flying Spur incorporates sharp lines and a powerful squat rear end that leaves you in no doubt that this machine is not only about sleek elegance exuding luxury and quality; it has been gifted with “adequate” power (616 HP) and with handling and braking to challenge the best on the street. The application of clever design to incorporate features such as the low roof, Jewel front headlights, wrap around rear tail lights and large oval exhaust pipes give the Spur a slight hint of aggression and alongside this its discreet application of the very best in cutting edge technology make it a very powerful package.

All of this has been created without sacrificing the Spur’s overall instantly recognisable distinguished Bentley appearance.

It just kept getting better as I eased the Flying Spur out onto the road from the Ahmed Zayani forecourt it immediately struck me how effortless it was to drive. The W12 Twin Turbo design engine produces an effortless 616 horsepower and can instantly deliver 800 Newton Meters of Torque. This power package can move you from 0-100 kms (0-60 mph) in a fraction over 4 seconds and should you be up for it, can proceed easily to a top speed of 320 kph (200 mph) in complete luxury. Despite these very impressive performance figures

the Flying Spur is comfortable in traffic at 10 mph. At low speeds the electronic engine management system ensured that at all times I

“The W12 Twin Turbo design engine produces an effortless 616 horsepower and can instantly deliver 800 Newton Meters of Torque. This power package can move you from 0-100 kms (060 mph) in a fraction over 4 seconds.” had immediate access to every one of the 616 horses under the bonnet with a gentle push of my right foot.

The computer controlled self levelling air suspension coupled with the massive front and

rear disc brakes and 40:60 split all wheel drive system makes the Spur sure footed and firm at speed and plush, comfortable and luxurious in the cruise.

The interior, what more can I say, it’s a Bentley! Nothing has been lost in the creation of a luxury sporty limousine with all of the heritage that is associated with the Bentley brand. The options are too many to mention in this short article but include, remote screen monitor in the rear which allows the passenger in the back access to nearly all of the settings and controls that the driver has (sadly not the throttle pedal)! In short the interior is fantastic with an attention to detail that will fascinate you, if it wasn’t so much fun to drive I would be perfectly happy just sitting in the Flying Spur admiring my surroundings.

I parked it back on the forecourt at the showroom with as degree of sadness as another prospective buyer was eager to be impressed by it. I could have spent a few more happy hours or even days exploring the effortless capabilities of it, perhaps next time! In summary my thoughts on the New Flying Spur are short, “Mr Luxury meet Mr Sports Luxury!”

For a test drive visit the Ahmed Zayani & Sons showroom in Zinj or call on, Tel. +973 1723 8822, +973 1723 8190 or visit: www.ahmedzayani.com

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 113

Cars “It incorporates a 15.2 sq ft retractable panoramic roof, one of the world’s widest-opening retractable glass roofs.”

THE ALL-NEW MKZ

T

Revealing a new future for Lincoln, in Bahrain.

he first vehicle from the dedicated Lincoln Design Studio, the MKZ signifies the introduction of the reinvented Lincoln brand, which will focus on attracting a new body of premium automotive customers. The allnew Lincoln MKZ enters the midsize luxury segment with new offerings.

A quiet, well-appointed interior is enhanced by standard Active Noise Control, genuine wood trim, full LCD instrumentation, and SYNC with MyLincoln Touch. The combined system makes it easier to use the entertainment, climate and available navigation features as well as devices brought into the car (e.g., phones, PDA, MP3 players).

Twin five-way controls on the steering wheel manage essential systems, and many functions can be voice-activated via SYNC.

The New Offerings

The inflatable rear safety belts are supplemented by eight standard airbags.

It is the first Lincoln created by a dedicated team in the new Lincoln Design Studio.

It incorporates a 15.2 sq ft retractable panoramic roof, one of the world’s widestopening retractable glass roofs.

The Lincoln Drive Control is an intelligent system that delivers a refined ride and engaging driving dynamics.

A distinct Push Button Shift gear selector enables flowing and architectural center console design.

114 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

The new Lincoln MKZ offers the Lane Keeping System, a suite of advanced driving aids which also utlises a mono-vision camera integrated into the rearview mirror to read the lane markers ahead and this helps drivers avoid drifting from their lane. The saloon also features other standard safety systems including Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support, and Active park assist and Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert using multiple short-range wide-angle radar sensors.

MKZ Dynamic Driving Technologies

The new MKZ offers Lincoln Drive Control, as standard offering an ideal balance of a smooth ride with confident handling as it intuitively responds to driver commands and the road, making the 2014 model the most refined and engaging MKZ ever. The new MKZ is the only saloon in its class to include Continuously Controlled Damping and Active Noise Control as standard equipment.

Featuring 3.7-liter V6 that produces significantly more power than the previous model, MKZ also utilizes a six-speed automatic transmission. A 2.0-liter fourcylinder EcoBoost engine (late availability) will deliver the performance of a traditional V6. The All-wheel Drive offers good grip on the road.

This luxury saloon has a strikingly modern design while retaining the classic Lincoln exterior elements. The design teams have created an inviting interior featuring bold architectural elements, rich natural materials and fine details For a test drive call on Tel. +973 1773 7373 or visit the showroom in Sitra.

Cars For the first time, the passion for racing can be enjoyed in combination with four-wheel drive.

The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman

T

he MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, equipped as standard with the ALL4 allwheel-drive system and powered by a newly developed turbocharged fourcylinder engine, lays on extreme driving fun on any terrain.

Together, its powertrain and chassis technology – developed on the back of extensive motor sport expertise and the overall concept of the first MINI with five doors and four/five seats allow the hallmark characteristics of a John Cooper Works model to take the leap into another new segment.

The latest-generation twin-scroll turbocharged engine features not only petrol direct injection but also variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology.

The version of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder fitted in the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman develops maximum output

of 160 kW/218 hp, and its peak torque of 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) can be increased to as much as 300 Newton metres (221 lb-ft) for a short time using the overboost function. The sports exhaust system ensures that this impressive power delivery enjoys the soundtrack it deserves.

Available as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox is an optional six-speed automatic. The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman requires just 7.0 seconds – in manual or automatic guise – to sprint from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) on its way to a maximum 225 km/h / 140 mph (automatic: 223 km/h / 139 mph).

However, the optimised efficiency of the engine and the array of MINIMALISM technology on board keep fuel consumption and emissions impressively low given the performance available.

Indeed, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman records average fuel consumption of 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres / 38.2 mpg imp (automatic:

7.9 l/100 km / 35.8 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 172 grams (184 grams) per kilometre in the EU test cycle.

Extreme driving fun on any terrain.

For a test drive visit the Euro Motors showroom in Sitra or call on, Tel. +973 1775 0750, Fax: +973 1775 0850 or log onto: euromotors.com.bh

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 115

Opinion

Taste Life!

B

John Ridley rightfully glorifies a staple across cultures, bread.

read making has been common to almost every civilisation throughout history; 10,000 years ago the people of Mesopotamia and Egypt were making breads with dough made from locally grown grains; these ancient breads have little in common with the nutrient poor replicas we find on supermarket shelves today.

When I was diagnosed as coeliac (gluten intolerant) I was living in Beirut, where bread, hot and fresh from the baker’s oven, is part of almost every meal. Determined that a gluten free diet wouldn’t be a compromise, I began seeking out “new” ingredients and cooking methods.

“The best way of knowing that the sourdough is genuine is to ask the baker to show you his sourdough starter; but try making your own, it’s satisfying, and very easy.”

Gluten intolerance is complex, using spelt, a grain containing a fraction of the gluten typically found in wheat, I can tolerate small amounts of sourdough - a flour and water mix, gradually leavened over several days by harnessing the naturally occurring wild yeasts drifting in the air around us.

Bread sold as sourdough is gaining popularity and is available in many retailers, but beware, making sourdough bread is a slow process; some breads sold as sourdough

116 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

may be no more than mass produced breads, sold at a premium price.

The best way of knowing that the sourdough is genuine is to ask the baker to show you his sourdough starter; but try making your own, it’s satisfying, and very easy.

To begin, you’ll need your own starter culture, making one can be hit and miss, if it doesn’t work at first, keep trying; once working, it will be your friend for life - so long as you feed it.

John R Ridley

You’ll need 250 grams of plain flour, I use spelt, you can use wheat, rice, or other grains if you prefer. Some add a couple of chopped grapes or dates to help start the fermentation; try without first. Add an equal volume of warm water to the flour and stir to form a batter, pour the mixture into a jar, cover with a clean cloth or kitchen towel and leave in a warm place; the mix will attract wild yeasts from the surrounding air.

After a couple of days the culture will begin to grow in volume, and will give off a sweet “malty wine” aroma.

Discard half of the mixture, and feed the remaining culture by mixing it with 50 grams of flour and an equal volume of water. Pour into a large sterilised glass jar, cover and leave. After five to seven days it will be alive; bubbling and ready to use.

If looked after, the culture will live forever; I know of one that has been passed from father to son for over two hundred years. If the starter is kept in a warm place it should be fed each day (as described above); I keep my starter culture in a jar on my desk - it’s my alternative to a zen garden.

Alternatively, once the starter is mature (90 days old), feed and then store in a fridge; each week it should brought up to room temperature and fed, before refrigerating again.

Opinion

With the hard work behind us, it’s time to begin bread making.

I allow dough to ferment slowly in a refrigerator over three days, this may seem laborious, but it will only take a few minutes of your time. Once you get into a routine, you will enjoy fresh bread whilst another loaf is slowly proving in the fridge.

For the dough, you will need 500 grams of a good quality, stone ground, organic bread flour (spelt is perfect), 350ml warm water, 150ml starter culture, and 10 grams of salt.

Begin by feeding your starter (use fresh discarded starter culture). Place the flour in a large mixing bowl, make a well in the centre, fill with the starter, and 200mL of the water.

With your hands, gently mix the ingredients together, gradually adding more water until the dough has the consistency of a very thick batter; this should take no more than one minute.

Cover with cling film and leave in a warm place.

After about one hour, the dough should have begun rising, ready for kneading - a great stress reliever and an effective way of getting children away from the TV and interested in cooking.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and flatten into a long and thin rectangle. Fold one side to the middle, then the other side, flatten down and fold again.

Flatten into a rectangle, and then gently sprinkle the surface with the salt.

Now fold and flatten, 20 to 30 times, turning through 90 degrees each time; you should have dough with a smooth

elastic structure, which will give the finished bread a more regular internal structure.

Place the dough into a floured basin, cover with cling film and refrigerate for 24-48 hours; it will double in volume.

When you are ready to bake the bread, drop the dough onto a lightly floured surface, flatten and fold a couple of times; then fold the corners under the bottom of the dough to form a rough ball, place on a baking sheet.

Cover with a clean cloth and leave in a warm place to rise for 3-5 hours, the dough should double in size, both rising and increasing in width.

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees; by the time the oven has reached temperature, the

dough will have again spread, once more gently fold the corners underneath to re-form a ball take care not to knock the air from the dough.

With a sharp knife, make a couple of slashes across the top of the dough, they should be about 1cm deep, place in the oven.

If you have a glazed oven door, draw up a chair, gather your children (or anyone else’s) and enjoy the spectacle - after a few minutes you’ll see the whole loaf rising.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, remove from the oven and tap the bottom of your loaf, if it sounds hollow it is ready, if not, return to the oven for a few more minutes.

By now, attracted by the wonderful aroma, your kitchen will be full of children and friends, eager to sample the fresh hot bread.

Once cool, slice, thickly butter, and share. If there is any left, wrap in tissue paper and store in a bread bin.

Now is a perfect time to prepare the dough of your next loaf

John Ridley is a Bahrain based journalist, broadcaster, and writer, he is busy preparing his new web site www.taste-life.co.uk, and can be contacted at john@johnridley.nu

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 117

Gastro Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

Price: BD10++ per head subject to 15 per cent service charge and 5 per cent government levy Friday Brunch Where: La Med When: Friday 12.30pm to 4pm Price: BD29 per person* including unlimited bubbly, house beverages and soft drinks.

Half price for children aged four to twelve; no charge for children under four

Mussels Evening When: Every 3rd Sunday of the month Price: BD15++ or with a bottle of house wine at BD21++ per person Fondues around Switzerland When: January & February; 7pm onwards Where: Silks Restaurant Sea Food Night When: Monday Price: BD18.2++ per person or opt for the Seafood night “plus” BD22.3++ per person including wines, beer and soft drinks Discover Asia When: Tuesday 7pm onwards Price: BD15++ or BD19++ per person inclusive of unlimited selected wines and beers

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa

Table BBQ When: Every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday for a night of splendour & Fondue from 7pm onwards Price: BD9.9++ per person, including a glass of wine or beer

Gallete de Rois When: 3rd to 10th January Where: The Ritz Gourmet Lounge Price: Regular Gallete BD16, small Gallette BD13

Thursday Night Brunch Price: BD22++ per person

Dining Pleasures Meet Business Success When: Sunday to Thursday, noon to 3pm Where: Primavera

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1746 0000.

118 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Dinner for Two at La Med When: Every night, except Thursdays Price: BD29++ for two Seafood Market at La Med When: Every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm Price: BD18++ including one glass of house beverage *Price is subject to 15 per cent service charge and 5 per cent government levy For bookings call, Tel. +973 1758 6499.

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel BBQ Night When: 28th & 30th January; 7.30pm to 10.30pm Where: Nasmat Price: BD22++ inclusive of one soft drink; Alcohol on consumption

Gastro Orange Treat at T-Spoon When: Throughout January; 9am to 11pm on week days; 9am to 12am on weekends Where: T-Spoon Price: To Be Announced (TBA) Easy BBQ When: 20th January; 3pm to 6pm Where: Nasmat or Saveur Price: BD25++ per person per class Chinese New Year Brunch at Baharat When: Every Friday (31st January); 12.30pm to 4pm Where: Baharat Price: BD28++ inclusive of select beverages; BD19++ inclusive of soft drinks; children under six years eat free, children seven to twelve years eat half price For bookings call, Tel. +973 1717 1441.

Chill Out Saturday Where: Waikiki When: 7.30pm onwards Price: BD9 net per person

InterContinental Regency Bahrain

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1731 3333.

Medzo Business Lunch 2-course menu & 1 soft beverage When: Sunday to Friday; 11.30am to 3.30pm Price: BD7.5++

Elite Grande Hotel Hot Grill night Where: H2O When: Every Thursday Price: BD10 net inclusive of shisha.

Catch of the Day Where: H2O When: Every Saturday Price: BD10 net inclusive of shisha

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1756 5888.

Flavours of Arabia When: Every Saturday; 12.30pm to 3.30pm Where: Saraya Restaurant Price: BD18 net per person inclusive of soft beverages; BD22 net per person inclusive of selected house beverages

Business Lunch Where: Golestan Iranian Restaurant Price: BD12 per person

Season’s of France - Winter When: Every Thursday 7pm to 10.30pm Where: Saraya Restaurant Price: BD18 net per person inclusive of soft beverages and BD22 net per person inclusive of selected house beverages.

Serata Italiana (Italian Night) When: Every Monday from 13th January 2014; 7pm to 10.30pm Where: Location: Saraya & Fiamma Price: BD18 net per person inclusive of two selected house beverages For bookings call, Tel. +973 1763 6363.

Elite Resort and Spa Paelleras Night Where: Al Noor Tent When: 7.30pm onwards Price: BD12 per person Thursday Night Grills Where: Waikiki When: 7.30pm onwards Price: BD12 per person Aqua Fiesta Where: Pool side When: Friday noon Price: BD12 for adults/BD6 for kids (6-12 years)

Sheraton Bahrain Shrimps Promotion Where: Espressamente Illy Café Price: Items includes shrimp tempura with vegetables in a basket for BD4.2++, stir-fried shrimps with vegetables for BD5.5++ and blackened shrimps with bell peppers for BD5.9++ Sizzling Promotion Where: Soie Chinese Restaurant Price: Sizzling items include Szechuan Sizzling chicken for BD5.2++ Hash cut sizzling lamb for BD5.2++ Ping Pong’s sizzling bean curd for BD5.9++ Sizzling tender sliced beef for BD6.9++ and assorted sizzling seafood for BD8.9++ For bookings call, Tel. +973 1753 3533.

Trader Vic’s Great British Week British Themed Menu When: 15th & 22nd January For bookings call, Tel. +973 1758 3555.

Bushido Friday Brunch When: Every Friday 12pm to 3.30pm beverages Price: BD18.5++ non alcoholic; BD24.5++ alcoholic beverages For bookings call, Tel. +973 1758 3555.

Please be aware that timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.

Legendz Steakhouse 5-course steak dinner with unlimited selected wines When: Tuesday Price: BD22++ Legendz Steakhouse 9-course steak brunch inclusive of house beverages When: Friday; 11.30am to 3.30pm Price: BD21++ For bookings call, Tel. +973 1722 7777.

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

Seafood Night Every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm.

BD12++ for adults (soft beverages only); BD6++ for kids.

Friday Family Brunch Every Friday from noon to 5pm. BD16++ for adults (select house wine, sparkling wine, beer); BD8++ for kids) For bookings call, Tel. +973 1711 1999.

The Domain Bahrain Steak Nights

Book in advance table for 6-10, the chef will prepare 3 prime cuts of beef, with sauces and side dishes. BD25++ includes half a bottle of grape per person.

When: Wednesday When: Le Sauvage

A Very Grown-up Brunch When: Every Friday from 12pm to 4pm Where: Le Domain [34] Price: BD19++ Business Lunch When: Daily Where: Le Domain [34] and Le Sauvage Price: BD11++ for two-courses and BD13++ for three courses When: Daily Where: Figs & Olives Price: A light lunch menu for BD7++ for two courses including a bottle of still or sparkling water Early Bird Dinner A bottle of grape is on the house When: Daily 6pm to 8pm Where: Le Domain [34] and Le Sauvage For bookings call, Tel. +973 1600 0222.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 119

Nightlife

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel From Bureau to Bar Where: Mezzanine Lounge When: Saturday to Thursday; 6pm to 8pm Price: Buy one get one free on selected beverages Bizarre Thursdays Where: Bizarre Lounge Date: Every Thursday; 9pm to 2am For bookings call, Tel. +973 1717 1441.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Happy Hour When: Daily; 3pm to 4pm Where: Tapas Bar When: Daily; 5pm to 7pm Where: Amber Bar Wine Tasting When: Friday, 25th October from 8pm to 11pm Where: Tapas Bar Price: BD15 net per person Ladies Night When: Every Tuesday; 8pm to 11pm Where: Tapas Bar Chess Night When: Every Thursday; 8pm to 11pm Where: Amber Bar For bookings call, Tel. +973 1763 6363.

120 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa COMING SOON! Boney M LIVE in Ibrida on 16th January Ruka, The Luxury Japanese Restaurant – Lounge will have its Grand Opening on 22nd January For bookings call, Tel. +973 1711 1999.

InterContinental Regency Bahrain Ladies’ Nights and Hot Deals Sunday; Jam Night; receive a complimentary drink from 9pm to 12am at Downtown Bar Monday; Wine Tasting Night; 3 different wines at BD15++ from 6pm to 2am at Elements Pool & Lounge Hoteliers’ Night; Hoteliers receive special discounts on Mondays at Downtown Bar. Tuesday; Challenge the Bartender Try 5 different shots at BD10++ from 6pm to 2am at Elements Pool & Lounge.

Wednesday; Ladies Night; unlimited selected beverages from 9pm to 12am at Downtown Bar. Russian Night; vodka with 50 per cent off from 6pm to 2am at Elements Pool & Lounge.

Thursday; Buy one and get one for free for all drinks from 6pm to 9pm at Elements Pool & Lounge.

Vodka Night; Ladies receive 3 complimentary vodka shots from 10pm to 12am at Downtown Bar. Friday; Lazy Lounge; Complimentary entrance for ladies and couples to the pool from 12pm to 12am at Elements Pool & Lounge.

Saturday; Cosmopolitan Night; Ladies receive unlimited selected cosmos from 9pm to 12am at Downtown Bar. Happy Hour; 2 cocktails and 1 dish for BD10++ at Elements Pool & Lounge.

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1722 7777.

The Domain Bahrain Wine Tasting Monday at The Cellar at level 34 from 8pm to 10pm, at only BD10++ Txoko Nights Sunday; 50 per cent off selected beverages between 6pm to 8pm.

Monday; 2 drinks for the price of 1 from 6pm until 8pm.

Tuesday; 2 drinks for the price of 1 from 6pm until 8pm.

Wednesdays; bring 4 of your girl friends

Nightlife

Image Credit: vidiworld.com

and get a complimentary bottle of bubbly from 9pm until 11pm.

Imari Weekly Promos Monday; extended Happy Hour from 6pm to 10pm on selected beverages.

Tuesday; Sharing is Caring Night; Izakaya style food and a pitcher for BD9.

Wednesday; Old School Nights; 50 per cent off on drafts and pitchers, from 6pm to 10pm!

Aphrodisian Thursdays; ladies special.

Friday; enjoy Japanese favourites - Kampai Saturday; enjoy a unique selection of sushi, sashimi and robata skewers. Add a signature pitcher for only BD9.

Sheraton Social Hour every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 6pm to 7pm.

Compare two 50 ml pours for BD2.5 For bookings call, Tel. +973 1753 3533.

Elite Crystal Hotel

Bushido Wine Flight on 15th January from 8pm to 10pm onwards. BD12++ Pink Fridays on 31st January from 9pm to late For bookings call, Tel. +973 1758 3555.

Klub 360 Finesse Nights every Sunday and Wednesday Bublicious night every Monday Party without a Wallet (KLUB 360 VIP membership programme) BD360 Bora Bora Rehab Pool Party every Friday.

Elite Resort and Spa

Trader Vic’s

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1736 0360.

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1731 3333.

Wahine Tuesday every Tuesday from 6pm onwards for ladies.

Tiki Friday every Friday at Mai Tai Lounge To Be Announced

The Ritz-Carlton Elite Grande Hotel Bahrain, Hotel & Spa Zodiac Lounge

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1758 3555.

Tini Tuesdays at Thai every Tuesday evening for ladies with live DJ. Chill Out Thursdays at Thai every Thursday evening with DJ Sami from 7pm to 1am.

Wine Tasting at Primavera daily from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. BD12++ per person subject to 15 per cent service charge and 5 per cent government levy

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1600 0222.

Sheraton Bahrain

At An Nada Lounge Happy Hour daily from 1pm to 7pm. 25 per cent discount on selected beverages.

Ladies Night every Monday from 8pm to 1am.

Shift 7 Ladies Night daily except Thursday Karaoke night every Saturday.

Every Monday. Bubbly night for ladies night from 8pm till closing Every Tuesday. Candy Night.

Every Wednesday & Friday.

Karaokee Night.

Every Saturday. Retro Night For bookings call, Tel. +973 1756 5888.

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1758 6499.

Please be aware that timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 121

Listings

BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE American

Asian

Bennigan’s 1781 3750 Al Safir Hotel, Juffair

Baan Saeng Thai Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/6pm to 12am

Blaze Burgers 1774 4773 Adliya, 11am to 12am Brasa de Brazil 1758 2225 Seef Mall, 12pm to 11pm Burger Lounge 3984 2840 Amwaj, 12pm to 12am Burger Wisconsin 1759 4458 Sa’ar, 11am to 12am Chickey’s 1774 4144 Zinj & 2 other locations, 10am to 1am Chilli’s 1758 1221 Seef Mall and many other locations Downtown Bar 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Bahrain, 4pm to 2am.

Elevation Burger 1758 7828 Seef Mall, 12pm to 11pm Fat Burger 1713 1414 Bahrain City Centre & 2 other locations 9am to 1am Franks a Lot 1781 1970 Juffair, 10am to 1am Fuddruckers 1774 2266 Adliya & 4 other locations, 8am to 12am Grub Shack 1713 1363 Al Hamala Hard Rock Café 1729 1569 Exhibition Road, 8am to 1am Jan Burger 1771 2505 Adliya & 5 other locations Johnny Rockets 1756 6565 Al A’ali Complex & 1 other location 8.30am to 1am Melt Restaurant 1749 9900 Shaikh Hamad Avenue, West Riffa & Juffair, a place to sit back and enjoy great burgers, freshly tossed salads, sumptuous sweets, and much more!

11am to 12am

Bali Orchid 1718 0424 Gudaibiya, 12pm to 12am Chin Li 1771 7717 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Curry Country 1753 7555 Juffair, 11am to 2am David’s Stir Fry 1754 0188 Adliya & 1 other location 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Honey’s 3923 8507 Souq, Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 5.30pm/ Friday to Saturday 24 Hours Hot Wok 1717 8083 Bahrain City Centre, 10am to 12am Kontiki Restaurant 1753 1666 Diplomt Radisson Blu Mamy Soup 3919 5343 Exhibition Road, 11am to 11pm Monsoon 1774 9222 Adliya, Saturday to Thursday 12pm to 2.30pm/7pm to 11pm & Friday 7pm to 11pm Nu Asia 1758 7171 Seef, 12pm to 12am Pan Asia 1772 1600 Umm Al Hassam, 11am to 3.30pm/7pm to 11pm Peppers Fusion 1771 7808 Adliya, 11am to 3.30pm/6pm to 12am Pong’s 1753 0800 Exhibition Road Thai Chi 1717 9747 Bahrain City Centre, 12pm to 12am Thai Express 1769 3595 Jawad Dome, Budaiya, 10am to 11.30pm Thailand 1771 7040 Block 338, Adliya, 6.30pm to 11.30pm

Brazilian

Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 1772 5550 Juffair

Brazil 1782 6686 Adliya. Authentic Brazilian Rodizio. All you can eat + beverages BD16.2++, Friday Brunch BD21++

Tony Luke’s 1749 4940 Riffa, 11am to 12am

Cafés

Tony Roma’s 1787 0070 Zayed Town, 12.30pm to 1am

Al Bindaira Café 1774 4066 Adliya, Monday to Thursday 10.30am to 12.30am and Friday 1pm to 1am Al Bareh Art Café 1771 3535 Adliya, 8.30am to 11pm

122 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

A Lounge 1771 0041 Adliya, 11am to 2am

Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite

BUSHIDO

Al Riwaq Café 1771 7441 Adliya, 10am to 9pm Aroma Restaurant & Café 1758 2711 Seef Mall, Open for lunch and dinner Café Ceramique Al A’ali Mall, 9am to 11pm Café Lilou 1771 4440 Adliya & 1 other location Saturday to Thursday 8am to 11pm/ Friday 10am to 11.30pm

The Way of the Warrior For reservations, call Tel. +973 17583555 or email: bushido@bushido.com.bh

Café T 1775 0777 The Royal Golf Club

Sky Walk Café Mariott Executive Apartments, Juffair 6.30am to 11.30pm

Café Sayah 1722 4000 Delmon International Hotel, Open 24 Hours

Tea Club Amwaj Islands 12pm to 12am

Candles Coffee 1771 4844 Adliya, Sunday to Thursday 9am to 1am/ Friday & Saturday 5pm to 1am

Tea Garden 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 7am to 11pm

Caramel 1770 7087 Cyprus Gardens, Budaiya, 8.30am to 12am Columbus Café 1717 2324 Bahrain City Centre, 8am to 12am Crepe Café 7711 5566 Budaiya & 1 other location Sunday to Wednesday 8am to 12am/ Thursday to Saturday 8am to 1am Deli France 1769 6031 Jawad Dome, Budaiya Sunday to Thursday 8am to 10pm/ Friday to Saturday 8am to 11pm Dome Café 1781 0180 Juffair, Open 24 Hours Friend’s Club 1771 3732 Adliya, Saturday to Wednesday 10am to 12am/ Thursday to Friday 10am to 1am La Maison du Café 1771 7524 Adliya, 8am to 2am Le Chocolat Seef District 7.30am to 12am Levante Café 1603 0393 Amwaj, 12pm to 1.30am Maya Chocolat Seef Mall, Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 11pm/ Friday to Saturday 10am to 12am Med Café 1771 3088 Adliya and other locations, 11am to 1am Organic Foods & Café 1333 3285 Seef Mall, 9am to 10pm

Veranda 1771 5868 Adliya and 2 other locations, 9am to 1am Waterlemon 1758 1785 Al A’ali Shopping Complex 10am to 11pm

Chinese Beijing Chinese 1771 7969 Block 338, Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/6pm to 12am China Express 1771 7439 Adliya,12.30pm to 1am China Garden 1774 6423 Gulf Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Ching 1756 4424 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am First Chinese 1771 3603 Adliya, 12pm to 3.30pm/6pm to 12am Foli 1772 2199 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Hong Kong 1772 8700 Adliya Kowloon 1772 5015 Umm Al Hassam,1am to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 12am Magic Wok 1769 4105 American Alley, Juffair, Open Daily 8am to 11pm PF Changs 1717 9757 Bahrain City Centre

Patisseri Valerie MODA Mall, 7.30am to 9pm

Shanghai Hut 1729 2988 Exhibition Avenue 11.30am to 2am

PAUL Bakery & Restaurant 1717 2321 Bahrain City Centre and 1 other location

Soie 1753 3533 Sheraton Hotel

To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.

Listings

BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE

Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite

MAKI

Fantasy Restaurant 1729 2382 Hoora, 11am to 12am Georgia Chinese 1781 3814 Juffair, 11am to 12am Grand Royal 1772 1787 Umm Al Hassam, 12.30pm to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 1130pm

A Culinary Haven!

Located at the Bahrain World Trade Centre.

For more information, call Tel. +973 1752 2733

Grill Room Buffet 1769 6660 Budaiya & 1 other location 12.30pm to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Havana 1731 1440 Hoora, 12pm to 1am

Chocolatiers Godiva 1758 0699 Seef Mall, 10am to 10pm Patchi 1725 0501 Manama and 1 other location, 9.30am to 9pm Rawasi Chocola & Flowers Mahooz, 9am to 1.30pm/4pm to 9pm

House Boat 1601 0321 Amwaj, 11am to 11.30pm JJ’s Irish Pub and Restaurant 1774 2323 Adliya, 12pm to 230am Marmaris 1755 3825 Al Daih, 11am to 12am

Fusion

Paprikas 1729 7100 Hoora & 1 other location, 10am to 1am

Al Osra 1749 1492 East Riffa & 3 other locations, 11am to 12am

Paradise 1753 5306 Manama, 9am to 1am

Atayeb Restaurant 1759 0119 Budaiya, 12pm to 4pm/6pm to 11pm

Salt & Pepper 1762 3535 Sanad, 10am to 12am

Block 338 1771 0338 Adliya, 11am to 2am

Saraya 1763 6410 Sofitel Bahrain, 6.30am to 11pm

Bangkok International 1774 0666 Adliya & 1 other location, 10am to 1am

Silk Restaurant 1774 9750 Adliya, 11am to 12pm

Blue Moon 1729 7100 Hoora, 10am to 1am

Spice Nice 1771 3603 Adliya, 12pm to 3.30pm/6pm to 12am

Bu Ali 1724 2432 Zinj & 2 other locations, 10am to 12am

Sun & Sand 1731 1366 Exhibition Avenue, 11am to 2am

Camelot 1771 7745 Adliya, Block 338 12pm to 12am

Tandoor Hut 1771 3874 Adliya, 11am to 1130pm

Caesars 1771 6955 Adliya, 12.30pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.45pm Century International 1771 0100 Adliya & 1 other location 7am to 2am Charcoal Grill 1721 3410 Manama & 1 other location Clay Oven 1771 7008 Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/ 6.30pm to 11.30pm Citrus Restaurant & Café 1774 4950 Adliya, 12pm to 12am Deja Vu 1365 7770 Adliya, 4pm to 2am

Asha’s 1717 9751 Bahrain City Centre Bright Candle 1722 9076 Manama, 11am to 3pm/6pm to 12am Charminar 1726 1896 Manama, 11am to 3pm/6pm to 12am Clay Oven 1771 7008 Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Copper Chimney 1772 8699 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Curry Tree 1603 0662 The Lagoon & 2 other locations, 12pm to 12am Hyderabad House 1772 0031 Umm Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am

Nirvana 1758 9318 Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3.30pm/7pm to 11.30pm Papadom 1756 4434 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am Rajdhani 1771 5222 Gudaibiya, 7am to 2am Rasoi 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 6.30pm to 2am Saffron Curry 1722 3014 Enma Mall, 12pm to 12am Sahar 1772 5117 Umm Al Hassam, 8am to 12am Sangeetha 1727 2768 Gudaibiya, 7.30am to 3pm/5.30pm to 11pm

It’s Mirchi 1772 7230 Ramee International Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/ 7pm to 12am

Shamiana 1717 8085 Bahrain City Centre, 10am to 12am

Kalpaka 1729 7000 Windsor Tower Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 2am

Spices 1753 1122 Crowne Plaza, Diplomatic Area, 12pm to 11pm

Khazana 1727 4767 Manama, 7am to 3.30pm/5pm to 12am

Taka Tak 1725 4848 Gudaibiya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm

Lanterns 1759 0591 Budaiya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Now also open in Adliya

The Great Kebab Factory 1769 0629 Jawad Dome, Budaiya 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 12am

Mantra 1721 1133 Best Western Plus Olive Hotel, 12pm to 2am

The Yellow Chilli 1758 0480 Seef Mall, 12pm to 10.30pm

Moti Mahal 1782 5333 Juffair, 12pm to 12am

Vrindavan 1723 4454 Manama, 7am to 3.30pm/4.30pm to 11pm

Mumbai Spice Bahrain Mall, 10am to 10pm

International

Nattinpuram 1729 0600 Ramee Baisan Hotel, 12pm to 12 am

Al Waha Restaurant 1774 6425 Gulf Hotel, Adliya, Open 24 Hours

Tapas Bar 1763 6412 Sofitel Bahrain, 11.30am to 3.30pm/7pm to 12am The Food Station 1725 4007 Marina Mall & 2 other locations, 10am to 10pm Trader Vic’s 1758 6555 Ritz-Carlton Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3.30pm/7.30pm to 11.30am

Indian Aachi’s Chettinand Kitchen 1723 3110 Gudaibiya, 10.30am to 3.30pm/ 5.30pm to 1130pm gomiami.about.com

Akbar 1729 6660 Ramada Palace Hotel 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12.30am

“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.” - J.R.R. Tolkien

To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 123

Listings

BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE Rimal 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa, 6.30am to 11pm

Italiano 1758 1919 Al A’ali Complex, 11.45am to 11pm

Salad Boutique 3666 4427 Adliya, 8am to 12am

La Pergola 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel

Café Marisol 1770 1201 Al Bander Hotel & Resort, 7am to 11.30pm

Selections 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel 6.30am to 11.30pm

Little Caesars 1717 9400 Bahrain City Centre & 4 other locations 11am to 12am

Cyprus Taverna 1771 6316 Adliya, 11am to 2pm/4pm to 2am

Silk’s 1746 0000 Mövenpick Hotel

DownTown Lounge 1720 8308 InterContinental Regency Hotel, 5pm to 2am

Tamarind 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa Wednesday to Saturday 12pm to 3pm/ 6pm to 11.30pm & Sunday to Tuesday 12pm to 3pm

Margherita Pizza & Pasta 1772 3133 Umm Al Hassam, 12.30pm to 3.30pm/ 5.30pm to 12.30am

Al Wasmeyah Restaurant 1753 5000 Golden Tulip Hotel, Diplomatic Area Open 24 Hours Bambino 1753 3336 Sheza Tower Hotel, 24 Hours

East West Cuisine 1721 0012 Bahrain Financial Harbour, 8am to 5pm Figs & Olives 1600 0000 The Domain Bahrain, 10am to 12am Fusions 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel Ginger Lounge 1737 0037 Majestic Arjaan by Rotana, 6.30am to 11.30pm Healthy Calorie 1736 9399 Juffair, 8am to 12pm Jim’s Restaurant 1771 0654 Adliya, 11am to 3pm/6pm to 12am La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts 1771 3000 Ras Ruman, 9am to 10.30pm La Med 1758 0000 The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Le Bistro 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel

MASSO 1772 1061 The Palace Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11.30pm

The Gallery 1746 0000 Mövenpick Hotel

Medzo 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel Open for lunch and dinner

Upstairs Downstairs 1771 3093 Adliya, 7am to 11am/12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am

Metro Pizza 1779 4000 Sa’ar, 12pm to 12am

Vins Bistro 1771 7101 Adliya, 10am to 2am

Mia Mia 1756 4414 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am

Yamin Jana Mediterranean Sea Front Lounge 1603 3800 Dragon Hotel & Resort, Amwaj Open 2pm onwards

Mino’s 1774 4777 Adliya, 11am to 12.30am

Zodiac Restaurant 1781 3366 Al Manzil Suites, Juffair, Open 24 hours All day dining offering a wide selection and panoramic views of Juffair from the 15th floor.

Zoe 1771 6400 Adliya, Block 338, Saturday to Tuesday, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am & Wednesday to Friday 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 2am Zytoun 1729 8008 Novotel Al Dana Resort 6.30am to 12am

Mondo Restaurant 1753 1666 Diplomat Radisson Blu Ninos 1756 6555 Al A’ali Complex, Seef Pasta Art 1700 1750 Zamil Tower, 8am to 6pm Pastarito 1717 9300 Bahrain City Centre & Durrat Al- Bahrain 11am to 12am

Lemon Tree 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 6.30am to 11.30am

Italian

Pick a Pizza 1772 0929 Umm Al Hassam & 1 other location 12pm to 1am

Links Restaurant 1775 0777 The Royal Golf Club

BICE 1755 3666 MODA Mall, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11.30pm

Pizza Express 1601 0524 The Lagoon Amwaj, 11am to 12am

Little Chef 1759 5950 Budiaya, 12pm to 12am

Café Spasso 1782 2274 New Zinj, Open 830am onwards

Pizza Hut 1771 1113 Manama & 10 other locations, 11am to 1am

Mei N Yu 1601 0160 The Lagoon, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 12am

Café Italia 1774 4774 Adliya and 1 other location 12pm to 3.30pm/7pm to 11.30pm

Pizza Inn 1781 1666 Juffair & 1 other location, 10am to 12am

Muju Restaurant & Lounge 1603 9800 Open 24 Hours Nando’s 1782 5100 Juffair, 11am to 2am Prego 1775 1263 The Royal Golf Club, 11.30am to 12am Primavera 1758 0000 Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Rendezvous 1758 7708 Seef Mall, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm

124 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Carino’s Italian Grill 1758 7878 Seef Tower, 11am to 12am Coco’s Café 1771 3710 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Cucina Italiana 1700 1317 Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, 6am to 2am Fiamma 1763 6363 Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa 12.30pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Gusto Pizzeria 1769 5556 Budaiya,12pm to 11pm

Pizza Bella 1782 7133 Juffair & 1 other location, 11.30am to 11.30pm Pizza Company 1781 1830 Juffair & 1 other location, Open 24 Hours Pomodorino 1700 0121 Adliya, 12pm to 1am Prego 1775 1263 The Royal Golf Club, 11.30am to 12am Primavera 1758 0000 Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm

Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite

MEISEI

A Story of Honour, Elegance and Integrity For reservations, call Tel. +973 1700 7770

Rialto 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 12pm to 11.30pm Rolandos 7732 2222 Juffair 12pm to 12am Roma 1772 5885 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 2.30pm/7pm to 11.30pm Vapiano 1749 1391 Bahrain City Centre, 10am to 10pm

Japanese Bushido 1758 3555 Seef, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 2am EDO 1729 0945 Exhibition Avenue, 11,30am to 12am Fuji Sushi Bar 1753 3336 Sheza Tower Hotel,12.30pm to 12am Frangipani 1758 2422 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am Haji Sushi 1772 5638 American Alley, Juffair, 11am to 11pm Imari 1600 0000 The Domain Bahrain, 6pm to 12am Kei 1753 5000 Golden Tulip Hotel, 12.30pm to 3pm/ 7.30pm to 11pm Maki 1752 2733 MODA Mall, 12pm to 12am Meisei 1700 7770 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Mirai 1771 3113 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Ruka 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 12.30pm to 2am Sato 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel Sumo Sushi & Bento 1771 8090 American Alley, Juffair, 12pm to 12am

To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.

Listings

BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE

Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite

MAI-TAI

Aloha Life!

Located at Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa For more information, call Tel. +973 1758 6555

Dalaona Restaurant 1733 0930 Muharraq, 9am to 12am

Takht-e Jamsheed 1774 6431 Gulf Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm

Fakhruddin 1769 5949 Sa’ar, 11am to 11pm

Wafi Gormet 1779 999 Bahrain City Centre, 9am to 12.30pm

Golestan 1753 3533 Sheraton Hotel Sunday to Friday 12.30pm to 2.30pm/7.30pm to 11.30pm

Yalla Yalla 1782 7999 Al Safir Hotel, 6.30pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm

Isfahani 1755 0567 Hoora and other locations, 12pm to 12am Kenza 1736 0000 The K Hotel, 7pm to 2am

Sushi 101 1782 2274 New Zinj Saturday to Thursday, 12pm to 3pm/6pm onwards & Friday 1pm to 4pm/7pm onwards Yo Sushi 1758 3373 Al A’ali Complex, Seef Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 12am/ Thursday to Friday 12pm to 2am

Middle Eastern Al Abraaj 1759 5656 Budaiya and many other locations, 12pm to 12am Al Arisha 1772 5414 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Al-Bokhari 1731 1186 Hoora & 2 other locations, 12pm to 2am

L’lle 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa, 6pm to 11pm

Leewan Al Khor 1601 0666 Amwaj, 1pm to 11pm

Zayt Zaytoon 1731 2222 Manama & 2 other locations, 7am to 12am

Leila 1756 6556 Seef, 9am to 12am

Zeitouna 1736 5055 Juffair & 4 other locations, 8am to 12am

Marmaris 1755 5909 Sanabis, 11am to 12am

Mexican

Mashawi Lebanese Grill 1733 9014 Muharraq, 12pm to 12am Melh Al Zad 1731 1170 Hoora, 12.30pm to 1am

Al Mukhayam Ramada Palace Hotel 8pm to 1am

Persian 1781 1511 Adliya, 12.30pm to 3.30pm/7.30pm to 12am

Al Shama 1729 7000 Windsor Tower Hotel, 9pm to 2am

Persian Room 1601 0166 Amwaj Islands Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 12am/ Thursday to Friday 12pm to 1am

Café Blanc 1710 0069 Al A’ali Complex, 8am to 12am Carla’s 1769 7687 Cyprus Gardens, Sehla, 12pm to 12am Chakmagia 1755 8500 Dana Mall, 10am to 10pm

Legendz Steakhouse 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel Open for lunch and dinner

Zahle 1774 6417 Gulf Hotel Monday to Tuesday 7pm to 1am/ Wednesday to Friday 7pm to 2am

Pashawat 1763 6413 Sofitel Bahrain, 7pm to 12am

Baharat 1717 1000 Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel, Bahrain City Centre Wednesday to Friday 8pm to 12am

Klouds 1736 0000 The K Hotel, 6.30am to 2am

Laialy Zaman 1729 3097 Fateh Corniche, 11am to 4am

Kosebasi 1717 2322 Bahrain City Centre

Al Hamra 1722 4000 Delmon International Hotel, Open 24 Hours

Badawi 1729 7799 Manama, 10am to 11pm

Butcher’s Shop & Grill 1717 2323 Bahrain City Centre, 12pm to 11pm

Le Sauvage Meat + Fire 1600 0000 The Domain Bahrain 6.30am to 3pm/6pm to 12am

Momo 1718 0659 Adliya, 8am to 2am

Abd El Wahab 1713 1111 MODA Mall, 12pm to 12am

Yas-e Isfahani 1758 1151 Seef Mall, 10am to 10pm

Brazil 1782 6686 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6pm to 11pm

Zahlawiya 1771 0051 Adliya, 7am to 2pm/4pm to 4am

Al Fanar 1753 1666 Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Open Monday to Saturday 9.30pm to 2am

Al Yacout 1729 8008 Novotel Al Dana Resort, 8pm to 2am

Yamin Jana 1600 3380 The Dragon Hotel & Resort, 7am to 2am

Steak Houses

Qasr Al Sultan Grill 1774 4144 Bahrain City Centre & 1 other location 11am to 12am Rayes 1731 2700 Fateh Corniche, 12pm to 1230am Shawarma Express 1772 9922 Juffair & 5 other locations, 7am to 3am Shoo Fee Ma Fee 1731 1280 Adliya, 10am to 12am Tarwe’a 1724 0046 Manama, Open 24 Hours Taza 1778 4997 Tubli, 12.30pm to 12.30am

Casa Mexicana 1771 5521 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6pm to 12am Margarita Mexicana 1774 6462 Gulf Hotel, Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Senor Paco’s 1772 5873 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 12am

Sea Food Asia Sea Food 1722 4466 Mashtan Hotel, 6am to 11pm Far East Sea Food Market 1772 7230 Ramez International Hotel, Juffair Daily, 12.30pm to 11.30pm Fish Market 1770 1201 Al Bander Hotel and Resort, 12.30pm to 11.30pm La Mer 1763 6411 Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa 7pm to 11pm La Perle 1729 8008 Novotel Al Dana Resort, 7pm to 12am Sea Chef 1729 2911 Hoora, 12pm to 1am

Mezzaluna 1774 2999 Adliya Sunday to Wednesday 7pm to 11pm/ Thursday to Saturday 7pm to 11.30pm Plums 1758 0000 Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa 7pm to 11.30pm Ponderosa Steakhouse 1758 0552 Seef, 11am to 1am Sizzlers Restaurant 1771 6999 Mansoori Mansions Hotel, Open 24 Hours The Meat Co 1774 2080 Block 338 Saturday to Wednesday 12.30pm to 3.30pm/ 7pm to 11.30pm and Thursday to Friday 12.30pm to 12am

Thai Banana Leaf 1774 4171 Adliya, 11am to 11pm Hash House 1771 5094 Adliya, 12pm to 4pm/6pm to 12am Muay Thai Quick Meal Restaurant 7704 0454 Juffair, 12pm to 12am Orchid Thai 1729 6660 Ramada Palace Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 1am Royal Thai Sea Food Restaurant 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel Shada 1772 1155 Zinj, 11.30am to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 12am

Sheza Seafood Market 1753 3336 Sheza Tower Hotel, Diplomatic Area 12.30pm to 12am Waves 1753 1122 Crowne Plaza Hotel, 12pm to 4pm/7pm to 12am

To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 125

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.

1749 1958 Herbal Massage Center, Riffa

3977 6882 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

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

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

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

126 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

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

Snooker

1775 6770 1775 0777

Go Karting/Racing Rally Town BIC Silver go-Karts (Tubli) Gulf Speed One (Seef)

Bahrain Rugby Football Club

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

Rugby

Bowling Al Bander Hotel & Resort Awali Bowling Centre Bahrain Bowling Association Bapco Club Funland Centre

Netball

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

Where To Go

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

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 Corniche next to Marina Club Bowling and Ice Skating everyday.

1729 2313

Hawar Island

1731 1770 Day trips to Hawar Island, boats depart from Ad Dur Jetty at 10am daily

Kid’s Kingdom

Music Lessons Bahrain Music Institute Kindermusik Bahrain Room to Rock

Al Areen Wildlife Park

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 3912 9585 Mini Storytellers, British School (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 USD1=BD0.377 - in other words a dinar is worth about USD2.65. 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

Clubs & Associations

Other Private Schools

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

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

British Curriculum

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

Nurseries and Creches

Al Dana Nursery Tel. 1725 3541 Dana Pre-school, Riffa Tel. 1777 0180 Lilliput, Budaiya Tel. 1769 4947

Special Needs

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

Things to know Taxis

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!

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

DHL

Tel. 1736 4100

TNT

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.

1733 9339 Flight Info British Airways 1758 7777 Turkish Airlines 1751 6100/1731 2233 Air India 1729 6444 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 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

Scrabble Bahrain Scrabble League Bahrain Kannada Sangha Saturdays. 6.30pm.

Art Societies Elham 1771 7441 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art 1723 0123 The Bahrain Contemporary Art Society 1772 8046

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 1772 0053 Islamic Enlightenment Society Lions Club of Bahrain 3908 0097 Manama Rotary Club 3939 4522 Migrant Workers Protection Society 3946 5378 1721 3825 Overseas Workers Welfare Admin.

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.

1759 0551 Bahrain Arts Society 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.

1778 6898 Bahrain Pottery Society 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.

3940 2302/1732 2549 Shaikh Ibrahim Cultural and Research Centre Studio Ceramics 1759 9026

“Help” 24-Hour Helpline for Distressed Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous

3987 3357 1753 0020 1753 3558

151 181 191 100 140

Bahrain Bridge Club Bahrain Bridge Committee

3960 7219 3968 7190

Darts Balouch Club Sri Lanka Club

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 1771 0944 Pakistani Women’s Association Second Sunday Newcomers 3927 0413/3641 1368

Language Schools Al Quran Translation 1764 5156 Bait Al Taleem 1764 3199 1782 7847 Berlitz British Council 1726 1555 Carousel 3967 3635 Lingua English Saturdays. Mondays and Wednesdays. English Language Classes, 4.30pm to 6pm, 4pm to 5.30pm.

1770 0040 English Language Centre 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 1786 2620 Bahrain Hash House Harriers Bahrain Irish Society info@bahrainirishsociety.com Bahrain Kannada Sangha 1727 1257 Bahrain Round Table 3960 8568 Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 1772 7127 Bahrain Welsh Society Balouch Club 1729 2231 British Club 1772 8245 ext. 32 Bhatia Mitra Mandal 3960 1789 Country Club 1759 3593 1769 0926 Dilmun Club 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 1772 7575 Wisdom Home Society

Wellbeing

Bridge

Hospitals & Clinics Emergency American Mission Hospital (AMH) Saar Medical & Dental Clinic (AMH) Bahrain Specialist Hospital Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital Salmaniya Hospital

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

1729 2231 1729 7878

Kelly Armatage Inc. Offering counselling, life coaching and cognitive behavioural therapy sessions Mob: 3993 1399 Email: info@kellyarmatage.com www.kellyarmatage.com

Chess Bahrain Chess Federation

1725 2133

Photography Awali Photo Society Bahrain Arts Society

1776 4468 3966 7751

January 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 127

Lifestyle

Horoscopes Aries 21 March-19 April

You seek the meaning of life and may find yourself looking at the world with more meaning. You will seek and discover knowledge this month. Keep your interests up and plan a trip to London if the budget allows it.

Taurus 20 April-20 May

January finds the Taurus ready to fight for power and success. However, you may find that during this month, others are reluctant in your efforts.

This may be the time to have authorities involved, rather than challenge anyone.

Bollywood heartthrob, Hrithik Roshan celebrates his birthday on 10th January.

Gemini 21 May-21 June

“I am an actor and dance is one of the things I do, one of the expressions of my acting.”

– Hrithik Roshan

Aquarius 20 January18 February

This year places importance in friendships and being involved in groups.

You’ll discover that you’re able to express your feelings and interests. Ideas which are typically uncharacteristic of you will challenge others.

Pisces 19 February20 March

Work during this month will be overwhelming as ever. This is the time to ask your guardian angels for help by asking them to help you to make a list of work that needs to be done. You’ll find that you receive praise this month.

128 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2014

Because of the Libran pause this month, the Gemini feels disconnected from everything. You will find that you are off, your soul feels detached - a personality not quite you and people are more distant. Don’t fear.

Cancer 22 June-22 July

It is important for the Crab to keep important files and information safe and monitored. This is due to Mercury retro which may create chaos and disorder. During the retro, do not try to learn anything new, especially at work as you will neither retain nor understand.

Leo 23 July-21 August

This month you’ll experience expansion artistically and creatively.

You will likely be invited to parties and to celebrate festive occasions with others that enjoy your company. This is a month that you will have a greater capacity for forgiveness and understanding.

Virgo 22August-

21 September

You may find that your partner will have some very good ideas for you.

Look out for unconscious motivations of others. Don’t believe everything that you hear on the work front and look within and avoid logical decisions.

Libra 22September22 October

Your communication with family members and others will be easy, quick and short. The Libra learns fast, is capable of taking in loads of information and then discovering more. With Mercury retro, you must be aware that communication and computers fall by the wayside.

Scorpio 23 October22 November

This is a great month for the Scorpion to entertain and to plan holiday parties, to organise group activities and then to relax with friends.

Affection and love flow this month leaving the Scorpion secure with themselves. Intimate relationships take on a friendly air.

Sagittarius 23 November21 December

This month new beginnings are on the horizon because of the Mercury retro. Take the time to take care of your appearance and to make good impressions. Your self-awareness and your personality are rearranged.

Capricorn 22 December19 January

You see potential and inner realities that no one else does. You will recognise what must be done to make important personal changes. Issues that arise, such as sad and distant memories from the past, will be taken care of by your soul.

FOR THE BEST DEALS AND THE LATEST IN EYEWEAR AND EYE CARE, FOLLOW US ON:

facebook.com/OpticaME

twitter.com/Optica_ME

+973 1700 0250

optica.net