Bahrain Confidential

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

137 Issue

Bahrain Gets ‘REAL’ Reality TV Looking For Your Dream Home?

Discovering Bahrain’s Heritage

Luxury Homes in the UK

The Arabian Horse

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

Complimentary Copy

Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE - SEEF MALL

Contents MAY 2014 • ISSUE 137 Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

Fashion 44 Saks Fifth Avenue 46 GAP 50 Hobbs 52 Mamas & Papas 56 Women’secret 58 Juicy Couture

Beauty, Health & Well Being 62 Beauty Buzz 66 Benefits of Breathing

Poem

44

Cars 110 Porsche Macan - Review 112 Car News

34 Who Shall Speak? By David Hollywood

Essential Listings 123 Recommended Restaurants, Nightspots,

Opinion

Essential Info, Beauty Spots, Sports and

68 Katarzyna Richter - Fighting Prejudice

Fitness, Clubs and Associations.

116 John Ridley’s Taste Life!

Regulars 14 Not to Be Missed: Save the Date

30

22 Tech: Reviewing the World’s Smallest Portable Speakers 80 Society: Say Cheese!

Cover Feature 40 JEO Productions: Blending in with the Bahrainis

Feature Interviews 36 Al Rashediah Stud farm: If Wishes Were Horses 78 VIVA Bahrain Hosts Peter Shemeichel

Juicy Pickings 18 New in Town 24 Art Space: Street Photography 74 Travel: 13 Top Holiday Destinations

52

Publishers: Nick Cooksey and Rebecca Smith Editor in Chief: Rebecca Smith Editorial: Melissa Nazareth Jenny Ann Thomas Layout and Design: Mohamed Nada Contributors

David Hollywood John Ridley Ameena Adel Bucheeri Enosh Kumar Anoeska Drent Katarzyna Richter 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.

Editor’s

Letter Last month we got a reality check! JEO Productions was at the Confidential office to shoot their brand new reality TV show, Blending In With The Bahrainis. The concept revolves around the lives of entrepreneurs based out of Bahrain and yours truly was selected to be one of them. I must say it was great fun shooting for it and my team enjoyed being a part of it as well. Joseph Tito, CEO and Director of JEO Productions gives us the scoop in an exclusive (Pg 40).

We also had an exciting trip to Al Rashediah Stud, a horse farm in Janabiyah where we spent the afternoon talking to the owner and manager, and not to forget interacting with the magnificent horses (Pg 36). These animals are so beautiful and gentle and I dare say we got a lesson or two on Arabian horses and breeding them.

If you haven’t been sensing it yet, we want to fill you in on the most interesting and new spaces coming up in Bahrain. This month we cover a boutique store exhibiting the work of artists in Bahrain (Pg 18).

Our new property section, this month gives you the scoop on UK’s luxury homes’ industry. Turn to pages 108-109 to discover what high end living is made of as 3 properties, pent houses and an apartment make their debut in the real estate sector.

Our regulars, this month cover summer fashion for men, women and kids (Pg 44).

If you’re running out of places to book your next vacation, look up pages 74-75 for 13 destinations that you must visit this season!

Our technology pages speak about the 4 pillars of online marketing and what new applications are replacing WhatsApp. We are happy to introduce two new teen contributors this month (Pg 61 and 72)!

Our car section brings you the latest in the automotive sector plus yours truly reviews the all-new Porsche Maccan (Pg 110)! Don’t forget to skim our Gastro & Nightlife pages for amazing dining offers and a list of the most happening parties in town.

Stay beautiful!

The Bahrain Confidential Team

Distribution Distribution Executive Mohammed Yousif Muhammed Shareef P Rafnaj 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: At Al Rashediah Stud A Division of C.G. Arabia W.L.L. P.O. Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Tel. +973 1782 2388, Fax. +973 1772 1722 Email: info@ArabianMagazines.com Website: www.ArabianMagazines.com Ministry of Information approval no.

ISDN 99901-01-17-5 © Copyright 2008, C.G. Arabia W.L.L. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Printed at Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej, Bahrain.

@ConfidentialBah

@ConfidentialBah

Bahrain Confidential

Bahrain Confidential TV

*

Winner of BizAwards 2013’s Most Inspirational Company of the Year.

Visit: www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

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.

Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

137 Issue

Front Cover Kudos Lewis Hamilton and Dylan Sires on the same front cover. Weird and awesome all at the same time!

Reader

Bahrain Gets ‘REAL’ Reality TV Looking For Your Dream Home?

Discovering Bahrain’s Heritage

Luxury Homes in the UK

The Arabian Horse

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

Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

136 Issue

The Makeover Nice Photoshop skills in your makeover feature, I must say! Do you magazines really think readers are fools? You portray the impossible, corrupting young minds. Young girls believe all the lies you say about flawless skin, instant weight-loss and what not. Responsible journalism is a thing of the past for sure.

Life in

BAHRAIN

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

Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

Improve Your Child’s Future

Ha ha! Our front cover for April was definitely one of our better ones. Local and international talent sharing space alongside traditional elements in the Kingdom perfectly describes ‘Life in Bahrain’! Thank you for your comment.

Journo Police

135 Issue

Bahrain’s Culture Fest: Save The Date

Get Flawless Skin in Seconds

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

Dear Journo Police, keep calm and read Bahrain Confidential! What makes you think we use Photoshop? We are the first magazine in the Kingdom to start the makeover and our readers absolutely love it, even after all these years. Are you just sour you were not selected?

Blog Confidential I was perusing your website the other day.

Really loved some of the blogs you’ve put up. Very personalised and entertaining. The website as a whole is very colourful and fun.

That said, I love reading Bahrain Confidential, the magazine too. No matter how big online media gets, nothing beats holding a paperback!

Tilly

10 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Thank you for that pat on the back, Tilly!

We love blogging as much as we do writing for the magazine. And yes, we agree that though online media is THE media these days, print is here to stay!

people

vb

Iker Casillas Birthday: 20th May Birthplace: Spain Birth Sign: Taurus He was raised with one brother, Unai Casillas.

He began playing for Real Madrid youth squad when he was 9.

He was David Beckham’s teammate on Real Madrid during 2003 to 2007.

Played for Spain in the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Won the European Cup in 2008 when he was a member of the Spanish Team.

Spain’s most capped player, breaking the record held by legendary Andoni Zubizarreta.

His career hit an all time high when he lifted the World Cup Trophy at Soccer City in 2010.

Every time Real Madrid scores a goal, he touches his own crossbar.

Icons Of The Month Bahrain Confidential is loving the footballers this month!

ew

Cesc Fabregas Birthday: 4th May Birthplace: Spain Birth Sign: Taurus It was under the guidance of Arsene Wenger from Arsenal that Cesc Fabregas became one of world footballs’ most sought after players.

Was 2007-08 Young Player of the Year.

In 2003, he became Arsenal’s youngest player when he appeared in a League Cup tie at just 16.

Barcelona grabbed him with an initial fee of around 29 million Euros.

He began the Barcelona career by becoming the first player in Barcelona’s history to have scored in all four of his first La Liga games.

His injury record however, is far from perfect.

12 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

what’s on

Not To Be

Missed For more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 117 - 121

Amwaj Marina Obstacle Challenge

Want to push yourself for charity?

Run wild with a 4km obstacle course challenge.

When: 30th May (Briefing on 23rd May) Where: Amwaj Marina Price: BD15 For more details, contact +973 39132102 or email adnan@adnanevents.com

Meet The Founder of Art of Living

What: Spend an evening of music and wisdom with the great Art of Living founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

When: 5th May, 6: 30pm-9: 30pm Where: Bahrain National Indoor Stadium Price: BD3 What: A seminar by the Guru on Happiness and Business (for Corporates) When: 6th May, 7-9pm Where: Crowne Plaza Price: BD50 For more information or bookings, call tel. +973 39478144 or +973 39837475

The Mumbai Stand Up Comedy Show Enjoy an evening of Indian comedy with Raju Srivastava and Gaurav Sharma.

When: 8th May, 7pm Price: BD3, BD5 and BD10 Tickets are available at Indian club and www.togetherinbahrain.com. For more information, call Tel. +973 39848167 or +973 35053442

The Annual Birdman of Bahrain Competition

It’s a fun family event. So sign your family up. There will be children’s and adult teams.

All proceeds will go to charities. If that’s not enough, one of Bahrain’s favourite bands, Revival plays too!

When: 16th May, from 2pm Where: The British Club Price: Free for members, BD2 admission for guests For more information, call Tel. +973 17728245

14 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

2-day Shopping Festival

Get awesome bargains on everything from fashion, jewellery to household items. One of the most awaited family events.

When: 30th and 31st May Where: Marina Corniche, Al Fateh For more information, call +973 17713716

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what’s on

Not To Be

Missed For more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 117 - 121

Chuckle Away!

This May, The Chuckle Club hosts three entertaining comedians, Jojo Sutherland, a funny Scottish woman, Matt Fordes, the host of the well-acclaimed monthly live stand up show, ‘Matt Forde’s Political Party’, and Damian Clark, an Australian who kicked off his career as a comedian with winning the Perth Comedy Fringe Award in 2000.

When: 14th May- The Capital Club

15th May- The British Club

16th May- InterContinental

Regency Bahrain Time: 7:30pm Price: BD15

New Arrival

New Fragrances, New Look

Bath & Body lovers, your day just got way more exciting! Bath & Body Works has new fragrances, new formulas and a new look for its lovely collection of Deep Cleansing and Gentle Foaming Hand Soaps. The new creamy, rich formulas contain soothing aloe and protective vitamin E to nourish and condition leaving your hands soft and smooth.

Hurry and get your favourite hand soap NOW! Available at Bath & Body Works.

For more information, email. info@punchlineme.com or call Tel. +973 36663509

Who’s up for Adventure Sports Ryan Hughes, Manager and Sports Advisor at Skate Shack has certainly convinced us to try kite surfing. It’s the season, so sign up!

Season- November to July For more information, contact Skate Shack +973 77197772

Nissan GT Academy Making A Comeback

Nissan GT Academy along with Sony PlayStation is coming back to the Middle East for 2014.

GT Academy Middle East is now gearing up to offer the same opportunity for another motorsport maestro from the region. Take part in the Bahrain leg of the competition, compete on the GT Academy simulator pods and the fastest will have a place in the regional finals.

When: Until 31st May Where: Nissan Sitra showroom For more information, visit. facebook.com/Nissan.Bahrain, or facebook.com/GTAcademy

16 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

new in town

Explore Nurture Inspire

This month we popped in to Showcase 101, a concept store displaying the work of 20 artists in Bahrain.

Nestled on the first floor of Riyadat Mall in A’ali, this boutique store offers creative minds in the Kingdom a platform to display handmade creative products including clothing, jewellery, cutlery, paintings on canvas frames and perfumes. Bahraini Entrepreneur, Rasha Khunji, the brain behind this Rasha Khunji concept store aspires to promote art and talent in the Kingdom, through her venture.

Most items in the store are handmade right from the Arabic Kaftans, Jalebiyas and children’s dresses to the traditional fragrances. The store also displays cutlery with an Arabic touch which apart from being used to serve also make for pretty show pieces.

A tour around the spacious store is just the thing for those who appreciate creativity (and shopping!) These items make for great gifting options as well.

Visit Showcase 101 at Riyadat Mall, A’ali or call, Tel. +973 1764 0161/ Email: showcase101bh@gmail.com/Website: showcase101.co Instagram: @showcase101.bh

18 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

new in town

Your Weekend Getaway Is Just A Boat Ride Away Excited to spend your weekend at the beautiful resort hotel in Hawar? The VKL Group is on it!

The Hawar Resort, a haven of tranquility untouched by time, is all set to reopen this summer.

Set in the midst of the ocean, 20 kilometers southeast of mainland Bahrain, the resort hotel is a 50-minute boat ride from the Al Dur Jetty Marina and a 40 minute boat ride from Durrat Al Bahrain. Fun water activities, like jet skis and paddleboats, will keep the entire family amused on the island during the day. You can sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset, and rejuvenate your senses.

The rooms at the Hawar Resort Hotel are spacious with an unobstructed view of the sea from the balcony. The entire package includes the boat transfers.

Guests will be offered a delectable selection of Arabic and international cuisines, with a choice of beverages to wash down each meal. The resort blends the authentic charms of a natural getaway with the comfort and efficiency of an international hospitality brand. Better yet, there are rumors of a seaplane in addition to two new luxury boats. Now that is tempting!

For more information, call Tel. +973 17849111 Or email. info@hawarresorthotel.com

New In

Town FreshRiAn! ALOSR

Applegate Farms

Do you know what’s in the meat you eat? These days, most of the time, it’s laden with preservative and additives. Disturbing? Fear not! Alosra supermarket, stocks its shelves with Applegate Farms’ all-natural and healthy products, a range that aims to ‘change the meat we eat’. Animals on these farms are raised humanely, without feeding them antibiotics and hormones. They are fed a vegetarian diet and never animal by-products. Applegate Farms take pride in that no added artificial ingredients or nitrates are added to their products, making them perfect for the conscious eater. Load your shopping kart with the best cuts of pre sliced turkey, roast beef, hot dogs, turkey bacon and much more. An organic range is also available in stores, including the Organic Herb Turkey Breast, which is made from organic turkey. This turkey is slow roasted to ensure it is left moist and then finished off with a blend of parsley, sage and rosemary. Applegate Farms’ range helps you open the gate to healthy, natural and conscientious living!

Available at Alosra stores across the Kingdom

20 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

new in town Let’s Focus on Elegance, Simplicity and Softness “Diptyque is an experience that soaks you into a beautiful mix of fragrances” - Celine Mall of Diptyque A brand that is over 50 years old, Diptyque, owned by three friends, all who have an artistic background, use art in the form of candles, fragrances, perfumes and skin care.

The already loved brand has now launched their new face-care products, ‘L’Art Du Soin’. Everything about the beautiful nature is summoned into all the lotions, oils and pomades of Diptyque. The new addition of face care has: Infused Facial Water Radiance Boosting Powder Nourishing Cleansing Balm Multi-Use Exfoliating Clay Protective Moisturizing Lotion Each of these products has a beautiful sensual texture with delicate fragrances that transforms upon contact with water or with your skin. The carefully picked floral infusions and waxes gives your face a radiant, healthy glow. Diptyque has created a fantastic line that is completely dedicated to beauty.

It’s the simple and soothing love your skin needs every day of the week.

Available at Al Hawaj in Seef Mall and Moda Mall.

X-Mini WE Review - Jenny Thomas Reviewing speakers can be very exciting, especially when it is the World’s Smallest Portable Speakers.

A product with minimal wiring makes me happy. Good thing the X-Mini WE had designed a connecting audio cable that can be tucked away neatly for a much cleaner look. This thumb-sized speaker is amazingly small. I was quite skeptical at first if it would actually deliver and reach my expectations. But surprisingly, it did!

The WE, at 48mm height and 48g weight, really does measure to an impressive audio. It definitely lives up to the philosophy, ‘Sound Beyond Size’.That being said, I have to mention that WE delivers a powerful portable sound with the convenience of Bluetooth. All you have to do is pair it with your computer and there you go!

Enjoy streaming from across your room. How cool is that!

It’s clever adding a plastic cap to cover the speaker during transportation or just to keep the speaker in place.

If you are looking for a speaker that blasts music and wakes the neighbors up, this is not it. With only 1.5W output, it offers good sound from most of internal speakers we see and use today. Safe to say, the music can fill a medium-size room with good quality on any music genre. So, for me, it’s just perfect.

Verdict: Budget- friendly WE is built nice and offers good sound quality via Bluetooth.

The X-Mini WE promises 6 hours of playback time in just one charge. It’s just the one you need when you go trekking or when you’re travelling light. HA! Im sold!

Available exclusively at Sharaf DG.

22 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

NO ONE KNOWS YOUR DRIVING PASSION LIKE ALLIED

art space

The

Story Teller

Street photographer, Hakim Boulouiz captures urban drama.

24 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

art space

H

olding a diploma in film-making, Hakim Boulouiz believes that street photography is similar to a film script, a story telling process. Focusing particularly on the introduction of the narrative in photography, this artist from Switzerland aspires to make people think about urban drama. Hakim also has a diploma in architecture and spends most of his time travelling around the world highlighting colours, shapes, contrasts and lines that indicate tracks related to the human being and their space in the contemporary context.

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 25

art space

What’s the best part about street photography?

Falling in love with the street! When I stay in any city, for a few days, I spend most of my time in the main urban district. I sense and observe all the details to get my lucky shot.

When I catch a really unexpected, wonderful image it feels like an ephemeral flirt! Though, when my stay is longer I approach it differently. For instance, during my 3-month stay in Dublin, Ireland, I repeatedly passed by the same streets so much that by the end of it, I knew them like the back of my palm! Though, each day I discovered the street all over again because elements like the light, faces, moods, weather and sounds are never the same on all days. I find that really fascinating! Each day the same streets narrated a different story.

How do you deal with the issue of privacy when capturing humans as subjects?

That’s an important aspect! I always consider human subjects as figures not individuals.

So my pictures don’t have to be read on a first degree, because the men and women shown represent aspects of the human being and have therefore a universal character. My photographs portray the context in which human beings live today, may this context be conscious or unconscious to them. I ensure I don’t manipulate my pictures by putting the human subjects out of context or showing them in a rude or derogatory way. If the human subject can be recognised, I try to engage a conversation with the person, explaining my artistic approach and ask for permission.

What in Bahrain would you love to photograph?

I discovered Muharraq with my photographer friend (Rasha Yousif). I immediately fell in love with this island. It’s a fantastic space for street photographers, as it offers extraordinary lights, diversified backgrounds and incredibly friendly people.

Any upcoming projects?

I will be travelling to San Fransisco soon.

During my stay I will try to challenge traditional and post-card representations of the urban space by choosing original angles and unseen compositions for my shots.

For more information visit hakimboulouiz.com

26 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

interview

In Conversation With The Comedians

Every month, The Chuckle Club hosts 3 International Comedians, in Bahrain.

Bahrain Confidential interviews this month’s artists.

MATT FORDES

Labour-advisor turned stand-up comedian, Matt Forde hosts the critically acclaimed monthly live topical stand-up show ‘Matt Forde’s Political Party’ at London’s St James Theatre. A frequent guest on current affairs shows, Matt has been a panelist on ‘Have I Got News For You’, a sofa guest on ‘This Week’ and has performed stand-up and written for Russell Howard’s ‘Good News’.

Introduce yourself in 3 words.

Hungry. Ravenous. Peckish.

Complete this sentence. Humour lies in the …of the …

Humour lies in the face of the truth. Deep.

If you owned a NEWS channel what would you name it?

Pie News HD. The opening line of your political campaign speech?

I never wanted to lead a military coup against the British government but I’m afraid it’s come to it.

JOJO SUTHERLAND

This charismatic comic performs in major comedy clubs across the UK and Europe where she is in as much demand for her compère abilities as she is for her comedy routine. Jojo is a much sought after speaker at dinner and corporate events.

DAMIAN CLARK

Australian Damian Clark kicked off his comedy career with winning the Perth Comedy Fringe Award in 2000 and hasn’t stopped since. Now based in London, Damian’s rambunctious and uplifting stand-up can be seen in clubs and festivals all over the UK, Ireland, Europe and beyond.

Introduce yourself in 3 words.

Funny Scottish woman.

Your best gig so far?

I did a solo show a few years ago at the Edinburgh festival and one night only 2 people came, but I did the show anyway and it was brilliant fun. I got a standing ovation!

Introduce yourself in 3 words.

Forgetful, hyper... and forgetful.

Your idea of a perfect date?

Anything that involves good food, good wine and a good chat.

Your best gig so far?

I had one in April, in The Good Ship, Kilburn.

The funniest thing about Bahrain?

I’ve never been; you tell me!

Your idea of a perfect date?

Start at the video arcade, then dinner, movie, cycle through the city at night, sit up on a hill and watch for shooting stars until dawn. The only thing that’s missing, is a woman.

Complete this sentence. Humour lies in the …of the …

Humour lies in the depths of the soul.

You’re speaking at a corporate pool side event and the CEO falls into the pool.

You say? ...there s/he goes - always trying to make a splash!

A funny incident you recall as a radio presenter?

I managed to do a 5-minute interview with someone who wasn’t who I thought they were but to their credit they played along and never let on.

28 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Your best gig so far?

Oasis, Wembley Stadium in 2009.

Your idea of a perfect date?

A pub crawl with a Wagamamas thrown in.

The funniest thing about Bahrain?

I don’t know as I haven’t been to Bahrain before, but I’m looking forward to finding out.

What’s the food like? Tasty?

The funniest thing about Bahrain?

The Tree of Life; a mysterious green tree in the middle of the desert.

Is there such a thing as a lame joke?

I hope so because that’s where I make my living (smiles)!

interview

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 29

sheer luxury

Spring Blossoms Adorned A new chapter in Van Cleef & Arpels, Cosmos collection.

Inspired by the distinctive heart shaped petals, this collection combines the ethereal quality of a four-leaf clover with the grace of a flower. The Cosmos collection expresses a delightful femininity graced by luck. These jewels now take on a new appearance thanks to onyx and white mother-of-pearl.

*Product prices of Van Cleef & Arpels boutique available on request.

For more information, call Tel. +973 17131122

30 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

sheer luxury

Each piece delights the eye when viewed from below. The mother-of-pearl, onyx and diamond petals are supported by heartshaped baskets, adding a romantic touch to the Cosmos collection. The baskets are adorned with tiny leaves, in reference to these creations’ floral inspiration.

Bringing Nature To Life

Captured in their grace, Van Cleef & Arpels’ flowers reflect the quest for movement so typical of the Maison. Each gem in this collection is polished by hand, thus adding to the play of light.

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 31

sheer luxury

BD83

BD106

Sheer Luxury For Her BD83 BD94

Aigner Bracelets are available at luxury stores across Bahrain.

32 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

poem

David Hollywood

We need to sort our differences with our peers, urges David Hollywood

Share your feedback with David via email: thewineappreciationsociety@gmail.com or call, Tel. +973 3920 7624

Who Shall Speak?

Who shall speak?

What thoughts will they portray?

In honour of our efforts, If all has gone astray, The differences between us, Consoles we’re born to be, In trust with lives we’re sharing, As cast for you and me.

So look to see the reasons, Why each will disagree, At times when values portioned, And life’s unique decree, Show years of varied feelings, Are mutual moods we bear, Between our hopes convictions, And normal truths we share, With those whose lives are separate, Yet guests within our prayer.

34 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

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exclusive feature

IF WISHES WERE

HORSES… The Al Rashediah Stud

And Allah took a handful of South wind and from it formed a horse, saying: “I create thee, Oh Arabian. To thy forelock, I bind Victory in battle.

On thy back, I set a rich spoil And a Treasure in thy loins.

I establish thee as one of the Glories of the Earth…

I give thee flight without wings.”

- Byford et al. Origination of the Arabian horse

Bahrain Confidential spent an afternoon at

Al Rashediah Stud, in Janabiyah. The farm has been around for almost a decade and breeds the majestic Straight Egyptian Arabian horse.

Rashid, son of Abdulrahman Al Jasmi, the owner of the stud farm and Hilke De Bruycker, the Manager talk about their love for horses and the farm’s many victories at local, regional and international competitions.

36 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

exclusive feature

Deem Al Rashediah

Farid Nile Dream galloping alway

T

ucked away in a corner of the island, Al Rashediah Stud is a horse lover’s paradise. Sprawling across acres of land, this well-planned farm displays beautiful equestrian architecture; there is a Majlis at the entrance, its walls adorned with paintings of horses by artists Mary Haggard, Peter Optin and Peter Smith. Owner, Abdulrahman Al Jasmi has a penchant for such art and each of the works in his collection has a story to tell.

We sit down in the Majlis and talk about the history of Al Rashediah Stud. “My grandfather was passionate about horses,” says Rashid. “As a child, my father used to visit the race track, every Friday. My grandfather saw this as only a hobby and so we didn’t start breeding horses until the early 2000s. In 2007, we went to farms outside Bahrain. We started breeding with around 10 and today have over 32 in Bahrain and over 20 around Europe.”

Rashid grew up loving race horses but today is more of a show horse fan. Al Rashediah Stud is mainly involved in the breeding of the latter though it does produce a few race horses too. The influential sire line of Anaza El Farid is the latest addition to the fold through the farm’s flagship stallion ZT Faa’iq. “Faa’iq has won many championships,” says a proud Rashid.

“He commanded world attention from the moment he entered the show ring, winning titles like unanimous European Junior Champion Colt and Junior World Champion Colt.” Hilke goes on to add, “Arabian horses

have this personality; if they don’t like you there is nothing you can do about it. Arabian horses build a relationship with you.”

The farm houses a superb group of NK mares (bred by Dr Nagel in Germany) in addition to a colletion of Ansata and Imperial bred mares. Ansata (USA) and Imperial are a big influence on the nowadays leading straight Egyptian breeding programme. All pedigrees trace back to old Egypt.

We move on to discuss what it takes to be a successful stud farm and Hilke also talks about the challenges Al Rashediah Stud has overcome. “Dedication & passion are

important to be successful in this industry,” she stresses. One of the challenges she talks about is maintaining the standards of the farm while catering to various types of breeders. After all it is the prestigious hobby of some of the most elite. There are many aspects that need to be looked at considering the science behind breeding.

For instance how the eyes are set, how the neck is positioned on the shoulders etc.

Sometimes breeders want to breed their mares with a specific stallion but this may not yield the best results. In such a situation, they are advised alternative stallions.

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 37

exclusive feature Another challenge is the element of luck involved in breeding. Sometimes the best mares and stallions may not produce the best foals. “The mare is more responsible than the stallion for how foals will turn out,” says Rashid. The horses at Al Rashediah Stud are trained in terms of how they stand and present themselves at the show. That said the movement and attitude depend on pedigree.

One of the care takers at the farm brings Shahm Elkuwait to us and to say he is one of the most beautiful creatures ever would be an understatement! Overjoyed to run around the fenced space in front of the stable, Shahm Elkuwait gallops away, raising his tail, snorting and blowing to express himself.

Show horses are judged based on Type: General expression of the horse; Head & Neck: How the head looks like (a lot of people strive for the seahorse look) and how the neck is set on the shoulder; Body & Topline: The general confirmation of the body; Legs: The build up of the legs; and Movement: How they move with their tail flagged up. “The best score is 20,” says Hilke.

We tour the stable and observe the stance of the horses and their walk. A number of mares wait in their booths ready to be taken out for a stroll; one of the mares brays incessantly when she discovers it’s her turn next. Some of the mares look comfortable standing with their colts and one particular mother-son duo happily enjoy the view outside their stable window. We reach out to our smart phones to take pictures of a brown mare nuzzling a sparrow that decided to perch on the wall beside it. We also click pictures with Hala Al Rashediah (left, image above) and NK Hebbattollah (right, image above) as the care takers stand in front of them, braying to attract their attention. As we wind up our photoshoot Hilke says, “I fell in love with horses when I was 5.” We are intrigued by how these creatures actually have the strength to drag you with them but choose to be so gentle.

We move out to a fenced area where a mare is busy giving her foal a galloping lesson. Rashid asks us to observe how the mare gallops; it’s not a regular walking style but a bouncy one typical to Arabian horses.

At Al Rashediah, every thought has

Some Interesting Facts About The Arabian Horse

• Big battles were fought on the back of this small horse, the Arabian horse through the Arabian Peninsula. Napolean started breeding the Arabian horse with the French horse for a bigger, better war horse. Napoleon’s famous but very small war horse, Marengo was an Arabian horse.

• The last battle on horseback to be fought on Bahraini soil took place in 1869 when Mohammed bin Khalifa invaded the island with his army from the mainland and was met at Rufa hill by his half brother Ali and his horsemen.

38 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

The Bahrain Confidential & Areej team with Hilke (first from left) and Rashid (first from right)

been given to the care, breeding, and proper management of the farm’s prized horses – from the design of the magnificent stables and paddocks, the care and comfort of its equine residents, to the expertise of a highly dedicated professional staff. “We make sure the stallions and mares have attained maturity before they are bred and the breeding in no way hurts or harms the animals,” says Rashid.

Al Rashediah Stud is one of Bahrain’s newer farms, “It takes around 12 to 25 years for a stud farm to establish its reputation, figure out what to breed and for the fold to evolve,” says Hilke. “We won the Egyptian cup in Berlin with NK Naeema and were reserve champion with her at the Egyptian Event Europe.” adds Rashid, excitedly.

“Most farms in Bahrain breed race horses and not show horses. Though there are many small breeders in Bahrain dedicated to

• On 17th December 1907, Lady Anne Blunt visited the Khedive’s stable (Egypt) to see the bay dahmeh. She purchased the mare a few days later and gave her the name Bint El Bahreyn.

• Bint El Bahreyn was a bay, foaled in 1898. She was bred by Ibn Khalifeh, Shaikh of Bahreyn and given by him to the Khedive Abbas Pasha II of Egypt in 1903. She was bought from the Khedive

by Lady Anne Blunt on 26th December 1907 and her strain was Dahmeh Shahwaanieh.

the Arabian show horse. The quality of the Arabian horse has consequently improved in Bahrain.”

Speaking of international competition, Hilke says, “Bahrain has been a little isolated due to glanders. Hopefully things are changing now.” Rashid mentions the recent visit of Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa to Al Rashediah Stud, the first farm to show horses in international competitions, and believes this will take things to a totally different level for them.” Al Rashediah Stud currently has breeding programmes and centres in Belgium, Italy and the USA.

For more information visit alrashediahstud.com

• Arabian horses come in many colors, grey, chestnut, bay, brown, and occasionally black.

• Most Arabians stand between 14.1 and 15.2 hands (one hand is equivalent to four inches) and weigh between 800 and 1,000 pounds as adults.

Insta

interview

jeo [product]ions

Empowering Conversations Through Creativity

“Slice of life of expatriate women living in an Arab world.”

Bahrain Confidential’s Jenny Thomas talks to Joseph Tito, CEO and Director of JEO Productions about the latest talk in townthe reality TV show, ‘Blending In With The Bahrainis’.

Jose & Joseph

40 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

interview Natasha- The Australian- Iraqi has called Bahrain her home for ten years. After first coming to the island as a fight attendant, she has since re-invented herself. She now strives to build her dream business and work.

Tell us about JEO Productions.

JEO Productions came to life 12 years ago. Josie Houpt, the Vice-President and Producer, has been by my side since the very beginning. We are fortunate to have an adventurous team of artists and entrepreneurs who love being inspired by various cultures from all around the world.

Jeo Productions first started in Toronto, then Italy, Bahrain and soon Saudi.

6th member is in the process of being recasted.

What are the criteria for choosing the contestants?

We first had a casting where women came and were asked questions. It is not just about beauty, these women were chosen because they each have something to say about Bahrain.

Growing bigger and travelling and documenting experiences in film, we want our audience to see the beauty we see.

Tell us about ‘Blending In With The Bahrainis’.

Blending In With The Bahrainis (BIWB) is about expatriates living in Bahrain. The idea became a reality when we wanted the international audience to see how beautiful a place Bahrain is, and how welcoming and caring the people are.

Rebecca

It goes beyond reality TV shows. These women were chosen because each of them has a story to tell. From their professional to their personal life, BIWB shows Bahrain through these women’s eyes. This is not a scripted show. Each episode will have a theme ranging from daily decisions to customer service and everything in between.

Our aim is to portray the talented scenes in Bahrain and its lovely culture.

Nadia

BIWB is going be 12-1-hour episodes, which premiere after Ramadan.

The cast consists of six women: Rebecca- An entrepreneur from the UK, who created a well-esteemed publishing empire in Bahrain with two well-known magazines, a design firm and a beauty hair extensions line. Balancing her personal and professional life with great ease, she pursues excellence in everything she does. A lover of animals, Rebecca is devoted to taking care of strays.

Nadia- Half-Bahraini, half British, she is an outspoken and carefree lady who balances the responsibility of behaving for her Bahraini father, while also enjoying a good party.

Working in event promotions, she always knows what’s hot and what’s not on the island.

Jelena- Serbian-Italian mother of two first came to Bahrain with her Italian chef husband. Opening a huge Mediterranean restaurant in Bahrain, her day consists of kids, social activities and building a community and teaching piano to local children.

Emma- A reformed party lover and world traveller; the expecting Scottish mom-to-be is married to a well-known and powerful Bahraini man. Now shifting her lifestyle, her days are occupied with baby planning and shopping for her expanding family.

For any reality show, the cast has to be good. Put simply, it’s a show that has not been done before. For the first time, we show why expatriates who have the choice to live anywhere in the world, choose Bahrain.

What was the response from the first teaser? Why was it taken down?

We wanted to give the viewers a glimpse of what was going to happen. In two days we got over 10,000 views. The response we received has been amazing! So far, we have received interests from North America, UK, Australia, South Africa and Lebanon.

Jelena

For the interest of a North American audience, we needed to re-cast either an American or a Canadian, which is one of the main reasons why the teaser was taken down. This re-cast will be based on viewers’ votes! So, go on and hit that like button.

Emma

What in your opinion is Bahrain’s take on reality TV shows?

Well, it’s never been done before. People are skeptical because they think our concept is like that of Keeping Up With The Kardashians! BIWB’s concept is not like that; it’s quite the contrary. Each show has a different concept. We want BIWB to have an impact on the worldwide audience.

Anything exciting been happening?

Well, we are casting for a new MTV show.

It’s a show that focuses on 18-25 year olds, showing the life of the Arab world through the eyes of some pretty cool third culture kids.

?

Natasha

We also just finished the “Happy” video. That was FUN! Inspired by Pharrell’s, “24 Hours of Happy”, the video has people everywhere from the National Theatre to the Race track and everything in between, literally every nook and corner of Bahrain, dancing along the famous track. The video went viral in 24 hours and till day it has hit 57,500 views.

What better way to promote Bahrain and it’s joyous people!

Photo Credit: Jody Peck For more information, email info@jeoproductions.com Visit, www.jeoproductions.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ BlendingInWithTheBahrainis Or call Tel.+973 17442900

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 41

n Wa

t

T

o i Bu

ld Yo

e er Car ur n hio as in F

De si gn ?

Research indicates that creativity derives from the right side of the brain, which we all

have, so how can we use it? Hamra Alam is a Fashion Design Graduate from England, the Co-Founder of Lights Camera Fashion, and business events with 18 years of experience in the Fashion industry.

Being passion driven, Hamra finds joy in the little things in life and appreciating those pleasures that we often take for granted. She explains it as that moment when she waits for the whistle to blow from her kettle, then pours the hot water into a teapot and watches those tea leaves gently soak in, that moment of having her cup of tea in her balcony while the sun is rising to say hello, in pure silence is her ‘Micro Pleasure’, as she likes to call them. We all have them but do we have the time to realize them?

As an expansion of Lights Camera Fashion “LCF” Hamra Alam has started Fashion Design Courses with complimentary tutorials that are held every Wednesday between 11:00am and 12:00pm at the Diplomat Radisson Blu. Furthermore Hamra is also a voluntary fashion teacher at the Rehabilitation Institute of the Autistic Centre in Adliya. ‘She believes as ‘Winston Churchill said ‘We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give’.

Fashion Design is more than just opening a Shop, and that is what is being taught in these Fashion Design Courses. Hamra’ Reveals the secrets, and essential tools to becoming a successful fashion designer and aiding you to construct your designs as well as building a professional career in the fashion industry.

Being the ideologist that she is Hamra is hosting her ninth event in Bahrain, ‘Fashion Fair’. ‘She strongly believes that networking is the key factor in every business’s success as it is the same as building a ‘Relationship. The event will unfold with Fashion talks by International bloggers and stylists, fashion workshops displayed by LCF students and catwalks with the emerging talents of designers of Bahrain.

Students will be awarded for their achievements by Design icons of the Fashion Industry.

So come along and join us with a delectable Gala Dinner, dress to impress and enter the raffle draw with your business cards and win many prizes.

Areej

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people We bring you the scoop on your favourite bloggers! This month we speak to Reem BuQais-Rivera

Favourite Gadget: My iPhone 5,

I’m lost without it, I need it to stay connected.

Best Dressed Celeb at The Oscars 2014:

Giuliana Rancic in Paolo Sebastian. The intricate details of the bodice are just remarkable and the sheer back balances the overall gown.

Favourite Restaurant in Bahrain: Pizzeria

3 Things You Won’t Leave Home Without: My

Italia because I love Pizza!

wallet, L’occitane hand cream and lip balm.

The Perfect Beach Holiday:

The Caribbean. You can’t go wrong with white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and good food.

What If You Won a BD100 Shopping Voucher:

A Summer Essential: Trendy

I’d buy a wallet or a crossbody from Michael Kors and gotta support my fellow alumni.

shades to look stylish and save your eyes from the harsh sun light.

Blogger Bytes

Fragrance This Season:

Favourite Shopping Destinations:

La vie est belle by Lancome to beat the summer heat!

City Centre in Bahrain; it has all the shops I need under one roof. And Bloomingdales in New York.

Reem BuQais-Rivera blogs at partnerinfashion.blogspot.com Twitter: @reembuquais Facebook: ReemBuQaisRivera Instagram: @ReemBuQaisRivera

Reem BuQais - Rivera

60 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

TRUE BEAUTY

teen contributor

Sana Nooruddin, a fashion design student in London, discusses how beauty is perceived today and the negative role of media.

B

eauty according to me is more about one’s inner self and how one chooses to portray themselves. It sure can be pressurising because it is more concentrated on the outer look in this society, but that’s more of a materialistic way to see you. I believe real beauty lies within.

Beauty does differ and has different points of view in certain cultures and eras.

For instance, in Africa the more voluptuous you are the more beautiful you are.

Beauty can be defined by what you believe and perceive. Beauty has a multitude of ways to be determined, and also is completely subjective. For instance, in the Middle East women choose to wear scarves and a black cloth (known as Abaya and Hijab in Arabic) to cover their hair and body, and that’s their perception of women to look beautiful in the society, from a religious Islamic point of view.

Beauty is portrayed in art and fashion in many ways including sensual, geek, gothic and rock. It depends on the theme of the photo-shoot, on the celebrity’s presented image, and each to their own. Like Miley Cyrus who tried to get out of her Disney image by changing her looks and chopping off her hair to show the world that she’s no longer a “child”. Her move was a sudden and a radical act, despite knowing the fact that most of her fans are pre-teens.

A celebrity’s actions influence the behaviour of his/her fans. We all want to imitate our favourite celebrity’s hairstyle or style of dressing. For instance, most preteens want to wear a lot of makeup and

“People often say that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”, and I say that the most liberating thing about beauty is realising you are the beholder. This empowers us to find beauty in places where others have not dared to look, including ourselves.” coloured wigs like Nicki Minaj or crop tops to show off their belly button like Miley Cyrus.

Most celebrities are advised by their stylists to “act” in a certain way for publicity, which obviously a 12 year old is not aware off; and so, those in the lime light must behave responsibly.

Social media is growing on people too.

A common style of posing for profile pictures on Facebook is girls pouting also known as the “duck face”. There’s also a survey on Facebook where guys rate girls “beautiful” or “ugly”, publicly based on their profile picture and studies show that has really affected most of the girls’ self-esteem.

In a show featuring American supermodel, Tyra Banks, there was an episode “panel of the haters” where women were judged based on their skin tone, personality, and styling sense. Politically incorrect remarks were used like “Fat people stink because they have cellulite” and “Skinny people eat and throw up that’s why they are skinny”.

Popular beauty magazine, Tatler, launched a special edition guide for UK’s best surgeons with a tagline “If you are going to do it, do it right”. The guide is proof of the increasing number of people wanting to get under the knife. Such articles encourage plastic surgery while publications should actually be informing readers about the dangers associated with it. One should love oneself the way one is. I believe cosmetic surgery must be used in situations like if one’s had an accident. Using it on a casual basis is a sign of low self-esteem and further generates insecurity.

I was shocked at how former Miss India and famous Indian actress Aishwarya Rai also tagged “The most beautiful woman in the world” was slammed by her fans,

media and society for gaining weight post pregnancy. She also faced a lot of cyber bulling on social networking sites. Now while I understand that as a public figure her personal life is bound to be closely scrutinised but that does not give anyone a reason to pass insensitive remarks. People forget that celebrities are human too and their privacy and freedom of speech must be respected.

News about Kim Kardashian’s surgery to enhance her ‘backside’ have been doing the rounds. The celebrity has a huge fan following in Bahrain too. Her visit in 2012 was so hyped that there was a special “Gold ticket” that allowed fans to get up-close and pose for pictures, for a whopping BD500.

Arabian girls are highly influenced by Kim Kardarshian’s style of makeup and fashion because Arabs like eye makeup. I believe she is misusing her influential personality by promoting the wrong things like surgery.

Michael Jackson is another celebrity that I’d like to cite as an example. The artist suffered from a lot of skin disorders and illnesses due to cosmetic procedures.

Michael Jackson’s music is legendary and it’s appalling as to why someone who is so loved would be insecure about his looks.

Salma Hayek once said, “People often say that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”, and I say that the most liberating thing about beauty is realising you are the beholder. This empowers us to find beauty in places where others have not dared to look, including ourselves.” Human beings are often cut off from Divine energy which is why they allow themselves to be influenced what other people think. We deny our own beauty because others can’t or won’t recognise it.

But the truth is that beauty is present in all creation!

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 61

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April 2014 62 | Bahrain Confidential | May

beauty

Faces is on it this season celebrating the art of perfumery.

With spring here, Faces offers a wide range of brand new fragrances launching from everyone’s favourite brands. At the same time, you know what they say; some perfumes will always be classics!

Faces lets us in on the perfect scent for every occasionwhether you’re brunching it, heading to beach, having a kitty party or even if you are going on that date that you have dreamed about for so long!

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Heading to the Beach?

What better way to spend your weekend than at the beach! If you’re looking for that perfect beachy scent, choose Armani’s Acqua di Gioia. With its oceanic aroma and pure freshness, it makes for the perfect beach buddy!

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May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 63

fitness

Get Ballerina Abs!

Anoeska Drent shares tips to strengthen stomach muscles.

Anoeska Drent

Share your feedback with Anoeska via email: anoeskawishfull.design@hotmail.com

Fitness is not about bulking up or shedding pounds. It’s about eating right and training.

Finding the right balance between muscles and not looking like a bodybuilder can sometimes be tough.

This month, I write about the Skinny B Ballerina Abs Workout. All my training including this workout helps my clients develop wonderfully lean but above all strong bodies (strong is the new skinny!). It’s important to build stomach muscles which will ensure that your belly doesn’t bulk up even if you have a few extra meals a day.

My research on beautiful ballerina abs enlightened me about the physical pressures these dancers undergo. Whether you like ballet or not you can’t say no to slender, swan legs and a strong core! Try my workout 3 times a week for a month for a strong body.

Don’t forget to share your diet and training feedback with me!

64 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Skinny B Ballerina Abs Workout • Start off with 20 Crunches. Ensure you don’t push against the head or neck with the hands, to avoid injury.

• Follow this with 30 Vertical Leg Crunches. Make your legs almost completely straight, but don’t lock your knees and don’t forget to exhale as you contract your abdominals and inhale as you return to the starting position.

• Then move to the 4 Russian Twist. You could use a medicinal ball, dumbbell, or weight plate for this. Try and twist to each side as far as you can. Do 3 sets of 8-12 for a strong core.

• Plank with Arm Lift comes next. Do 2-3 sets of 10 reps each.

• After this go for the Side Plank. Repeat 3 times for each side.

• The Mountain Climber comes after this.

Come to a hands and knees position on

the floor with your toes pointed toward the floor. Bring your left foot forward and place it on the floor under your chest.

Your knee and hip are bent and your thigh is in toward your chest. Lift your right knee off the ground, making your right leg straight and strong. Jump to switch leg positions.

• Move on to the Leg Climb Crunch.

Repeat for desired amount of repetitions and then switch legs.

• Oblique Crunches are very effective to battle those love handles. Repeat for 1216 reps before switching sides.

• We now move to Leg Climbs. Don’t worry if you can’t get your legs straight but try to gradually. For the Upward Phase, try and raise your body to touch your foot. For the Downward Phase, climb back down your leg in the same way you went up. Keep your abdominals contracted throughout the motion.

Switch legs and perform the same number of repetitions.

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opinion

WHAT BECCA

DID NEXT! Take a Deep Breath!

I’m a huge advocate of Art of Living and was encouraged to take the course three years ago by my Osteopath Lana Peters to help reduce stress. I did and absolutely hated it and didn’t follow through on what I had learnt. That was until three months later; I woke up wandered into the living room and just sat down and started practising the breathing techniques. After two weeks of daily practise everyone around me including myself – noticed I was a much calmer and more positive person.

66 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

opinion

T

wo years down the road I had allowed ‘life’ to get the better of me and stopped practising the techniques.

Fortunately in February 2014, Maryia, my AOL teacher and friend invited me to attend the Annual Women’s Conference held at the Art of Living Ashram, Bangalore.

WOW, according to everyone who knows me. I had come back a very different person. The timing couldn’t have been better as I was under a lot of stress. Although I had gone to attend the conference, I was able to practise yoga and meditation, which was incorporated into the conference. It was the first time that I can honestly say that I was actually living the moment. I had forgotten any worries and responsibilities that I had back in Bahrain.

“Take a deep breath” can benefit one’s emotional health and doctors now recommend breathing techniques as a therapy for relieving stress, which as we all know is the main culprit for majority of the illnesses we suffer including depression and hypertension.

People tend to laugh when you mention ‘breathing’ as naturally we would have serious problems if we weren’t doing it. But research has proven that we don’t use our lung capacity to the maximum on a normal day.

I’m not a doctor but the breathing techniques that you learn at the AOL creates a specific rhythm which has a detoxifying effect on our internal organs and helps improve physical as well as mental health.

The routine is very simple and takes less than thirty minutes to complete. In my opinion, it is probably thirty minutes of my day well spent. Even as I begrudgingly force myself out of bed half an hour earlier every morning, when I’ve finished I feel stronger, more positive and certainly more focused. It may sound all too ‘new age’ for nonbelievers but it’s true. What used to get under my skin and irk me doesn’t really have an effect now.

I’ve been so impressed that at the beginning of last month I enrolled onto the advance residential course, which was held in Muscat, Oman.

It promised four days of healthy vegetarian eating, plenty of yoga and peace of mind. The course was also to be held in complete silence. I arrived Wednesday evening and must say the accommodation was very luxurious compared to the Ashram.

But then, it was being held in a five star resort.

In total, there were twenty-eight of us who had travelled from around the region and the majority were Arabs and Indians hoping to become AOL living teachers.

Our day started with a six am ‘yoga’ class (which wasn’t really yoga unfortunately), followed by mediation, breakfast and then the teachings. They were long days and at times challenging as some of the workshops took me out of my comfort zone and made me question why. But once I had let myself go and stopped questioning everything, it got a lot better.

By day two, we were no longer allowed to talk, but could still use our phones to check emails and texts. This was a big mistake from my end as it was a Thursday – technically a working day so I was unable to switch off. But to make matters worse, the course fell on the Formula One weekend. So I was also receiving messages asking me to come and party. So by Thursday evening, I was in limbo.

I hadn’t properly switched off, I wasn’t happy about a few things on the course and to make matters worse I was missing out on Party Central back in Bahrain! I found myself checking out flights for the following day.

As I lay in bed that evening, thinking up excuses on why I was about to leg-it, I suddenly realised that despite the course not being as organised as it should be, I was the problem and in the wrong mind set. So, I literally took a deep breath, switched my phone off and stopped grumbling about what I couldn’t change and focussed on what benefits I was going to gain from the course.

I completed it and driving to the airport two days later, I was so grateful that I had because not only would I have let myself and my teacher, Maria down, I don’t think I would’ve ever been able to face the AOL community again through embarrassment.

What did I learn?

More advanced breathing techniques and once I put my phone down, an opportunity to detach myself from a lot of issues I’ve been facing recently and look at them objectively rather than keep asking ‘why’ this was happening. Focus on what I could actually

The overall message is ‘happiness and good will to others’ which is what we should all be practising. change and what mistakes I had made too.

So I definitely believe I gained and I’m treating it as an introductory to a completely new way of looking at life. I also plan to go back to the Ashram and do the course again, but without my mobile.

What was really obvious about attending this retreat – Anybody from any religion or culture is welcome. The overall message is ‘happiness and good will to others’ which is what we should all be practising. But it’s all too easy to get caught up in life and our own problems, that we forget how our actions can affect someone else’s behaviour especially back towards ourselves. Overall why let someone else’s mean, rude attitude ruin your day? Take a deep breath, smile and focus on making someone else’s day better by being nice to them!

I feel blessed that I was introduced to the AOL and would highly recommend it to anyone.

For more information, visit www.artofliving.org Rebecca with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 67

opinion

Pride Against Prejudice

Katarzyna Richter

Katarzyna Richter, Cross Cultural Psychologist discusses handling prejudice and fighting discrimination.

Being discriminated against takes away all your resources including the cognitive ones, engaging them in a fight against bullies and aggressors. Handling prejudice can be an extremely stressful and emotionally draining experience, often leading to depression or other health problems.

Have you ever thought of what makes people intolerant or even racist? It is

categorical thinking and laziness. American Psychologist, Gordon Allport once said, “The human mind must think with the aid of categories. Once formed, categories are the basis for normal prejudgment. We cannot possibly avoid this process. Orderly living depends on it.” Being cognitively lazy by nature, people do not take time to get to know a person they just met. Instead they

use shortcuts asking questions like “Where are you from?”, “What do you do for living?”, “What is your family doing?” and “Which area do you live in?”. This information pigeon holes our thoughts by giving you a full description of the person based on traditional stereotypes.

Image Credit: whatthortoldme.com

“The human mind must think with the aid of categories.

Once formed, categories are the basis for normal prejudgment. We cannot possibly avoid this process. Orderly living depends on it.”

Share your feedback with Katarzyna Richter via email: katarzynarichter@hotmail.com

What is a stereotype?

Stereotypes are oversimplified ideas or images about a certain group of people, widely accepted by others. For example: “All people coming from… are…”

Prejudice has many faces. People discriminate others based on age, religion, ethnicity, appearance, physical disadvantages, race, gender and economic status. Prejudice is learned watching the behaviour of people including parents, friends and teachers. The media also plays a big role in maintaining stereotypes.

68 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

How to handle prejudice?

• Be aware of common stereotypes and try to present yourself as different from these. Master a particular skill that makes you proud; become an expert in your field of interest; make a list of your good qualities, speak them aloud and build up your confidence. You can consciously manipulate the way people perceive you.

Let others see your best side.

• Be aware that using stereotypes doesn’t require any effort and so people use it somewhat unconsciously. Don’t react

emotionally if you’re unfairly treated; remain composed and confident.

• Handling discrimination can be painful especially when you are in a foreign country, away from your family. Finding support within other groups that accept you is crucial .Make new friends who appreciate your qualities. This will not only help you get the needed support but also give your support to those who need it.

• Most importantly, keep your integrity by continually showing that you are proud of who you are and where you come from.

Why Visit the Orthodontist Early?

Find out why orthodontic treatments are essential in your life, with Dr. Elie Nasser, Orthodontist at Gulf Dental Specialty Hospital.

EDITORIAL?

Children often challenge themselves to build the perfect block tower. This can only be achieved with a little support from parents. The analogy, Dr. Elie explains is interesting because you need to ‘think of your teeth and jaw as the blocks and the Orthodontist as the Parent helping you have a solid and functional tooth and jaw structure.’ Simply put, kids can avoid future long and complex orthodontic treatments because the Orthodontist can help them build a strong and solid structure with just a little support.

The earlier you start the orthodontic treatment, the easier the treatment will be. Teenagers, for example, can receive treatments that affect both the teeth and the jaws and in a short period of time. Treatments

for adults, however, concern the teeth.

‘An Orthodontist prefers to see the patients for a check up as soon as their permanent teeth begin to come out’, explains Dr. Elie. The common misconception is that Ortho Treatments cannot start before the full eruption of all the permanent teeth. On the contrary, interceptive treatment can commence even when the patient has a few milk teeth.’

The world of orthodontics has come a long way. People are concerned with the effect of braces on their appearance and selfesteem, especially adults.

GOOD NEWS- You need not worry no more! Gone are the days of large metal braces that were uncomfortable and not attractive. Today, we have clear aligners

(invasalign); braces that are invisible and therefore aesthetically more pleasing.

Lingual orthodontic treatment is another great option where the braces are fixed on the side of your teeth that are not visible at all.

Finally, for those who don’t mind boasting their braces; a variety of colours and types of braces are available. A few of these varieties are gold, transparent, silver, self-ligating (Damon).

‘Just remember, your Orthodontist is a person who really knows how to straighten things out,’ says Dr. Elie with a touch of humour.

For more information, call Tel. +973 1774 1444 Or visit: www.gdshospital.com

health It is believed that the main purpose of eyebrows is to keep sweat out of the eyes.

Your thigh bone is stronger than concrete.

People with allergies can lower allergy reactions by laughing.

In a lifetime, the heart pumps about one million barrels of blood.

We share 98.4% of our DNA with a chimp and 70% with a slug.

Health Updates

Our body is a fantastic creation. Here are some fascinating facts about the human body that you just might not know!

The eyes can distinguish up to one million colour surfaces and take in more information than the largest telescope known to man.

One human hair can support 3 kilograms of weight.

We exercise at least 30 muscles when we smile.

ONE USES 200 MUSCLES TO TAKE ONE STEP. Hair is made from the same substance as fingernails.

A person will die from lack of sleep sooner than they will from starvation, which usually takes a few weeks.

All babies are colour blind when they are born.

Eating chocolate three times a month helps people live longer as opposed to people who overeat chocolate or do not eat chocolate at all.

Each person sheds 22 kilograms of skin in his or her lifetime.

Gardening is said to be one of the best exercises for maintaining healthy bones.

70 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

health

Like fingerprints, every person has a unique tongue print.

The body gives off enough heat in 30 minutes to bring at least 1.8 litres of water to boil.

Your nose can remember 50,000 different scents.

The average person walks the equivalent of twice around the world in a lifetime.

The acid in your stomach is strong enough to dissolve razor blades.

If you remove the minerals from a bone by soaking it overnight in a six percent solution of hydrochloric acid, it will become so soft, you could tie it in a knot.

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 71

teen contributor

“I feel quite scared and nerveracked, but I’m also ready for it. Singing with my sister is really exciting, and I can’t wait!” – Liela Al-Sugair, songster of Jar of Hearts

Unplugged

By Dilara Nagib

“Music washes away from the soul, the dust of everyday life.” – Berthold Auerbach

Dilara Nagib is 13 years old and studies in Bahrain.

Currently writing a fan/ teen fiction called The Dark Angel, she aspires to be a professional columnist for a reputed magazine in California, someday.

I

t was a full on, music-propelled night at St Christopher’s School, Bahrain. The Senior School Hall was draped in a wonderful marriage of golden dim lights and comfy padded cushions; the weekly assembly venue that had always been squeaky-clean and pristine since day one was now almost unrecognisable to my friends and me.

An inviting stage had been clearly set out before us, centered and spot-lit in between a large oval shape. It wasn’t like regular concerts, where you could only see the back of people’s heads sitting in front of you. Here, we had walked into a seating plan in which everyone was placed in a wide coterie. I looked around me, realising that I had no clue who half the people here actually were.

Nevertheless, smiling was essential. A girl’s outfit is never fully complete without the aid of a big-toothed grin. And so as we sat in

our little ring, I inspected everyone in view, enjoying the seating arrangement very much.

Snug and cozy, I sat cross-legged and fairly happy upon the bed of carpets and pillows that had been laid out just before the concert was to begin. I was in the front row and getting that place was hardly easy; but years of being forcefully endured to sit behind human giraffes in movie theatres had taught me that to actually see the show, the show had to see you. Many people of different ages, genders, and origins were scattered around, desperate to find a somewhat descent location, all sharing a common interest: a passion for music.

Festivity filled the air as each performer went up on stage, mounting a song of their choice. Every single voice was most definitely unique and original; all dripping with outstanding talent left me amazed. The concert came to an end with the audience giving our fifteen young musicians a wellearned standing ovation.

“It’s really good! I’m so glad you’ve [the audience] all been able to come. I’m feeling very excited. It really is a wonderful mixture!” – Kristina Lewin, Senior School Music Teacher 72 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

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WEB DESIGN

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For more information contact: T: +973 1700 4575, F: +973 1772 1722, M: +973 3652 0004 sueallen@ProDesignarabia.com

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WIDEN YOUR WORLD

13 Holiday Hot Spots Turkish Airlines launches flights to these beautiful cities.

Rotterdam, Holland

Well-known as the ‘Architecture City’ of Holland, Rotterdam has many museums and other attractions. If you’re a party animal and dig shopping then book your next holiday to this vibrant city with an artistic, fun lifestyle.

Batna, Algeria

Batna’s geographical location offers a natural break through the Atlas Mountains.

There are plenty of coffee shops and traditional restaurants that are a must-visit for gourmands. There are many entertainment resorts offering sports and cultural activities.

Astrakhan, Russia

Abundant in historical places and magnificent architecture like the Kremlin and impressive cathedrals, Astrakhan is just the place for that laid back but fun filled holiday. The fish trade here is vibrant and so a visit to the local market is something you can’t miss.

Stavropol, Russia

A mountainous city, Stavropol has some of the biggest and best city parks in Russia.

Having a forest and lake within city limits, you can enjoy great food, drink and visit scenic locations here.

Starting 31st July 2014

Tlemcen, Algeria

Well-known for its music, art, textiles and handicrafts, Tlemcen is a beautiful blend of cultures. A great summer destination, you can enjoy the cool sea breeze at the beach and the scenic beauty of the mountainous terrain.

Starting 31st July 2014

74 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Catania, Italy

Located on the east coast of the main island of Sicily, Catania is one of Italy’s main tourist spots. The city is full of attractions offering historic and artistic wonders for everyone.

Starting 23rd May 2014

Oran, Algeria

Rich in cultural attractions including traditional folk music, Oran attracts many tourists. A number of hotels are being built to accommodate visitors, including beautiful floating hotels.

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Constantine, Algeria Boston, USA

Boston is one of the oldest and most exciting cities in America, a treasure trove of culinary hotspots. It is filled with historical attractions, parks and cemeteries that have become national landmarks over time.

Often referred to as ‘City of Bridges’, Constantine is framed by a deep ravine and is picturesque, having dramatic appearance owing to the numerous bridges connecting the mountains. Algeria and Tunisia serve as markets.

Starting 15th May 2014

Münster, Germany Montreal, Canada

Canada’s Cultural Capital, Montreal is filled with an array of hot spots including churches, museums, historic sites, parks and more. The city is abuzz with events and festivals all year round and so there is never a low moment.

The cultural capital of Westphalia, Münster is a city of churches and aristocratic mansions.

The perfect blend between its antique past and cosmopolitan life, the city has around 30 museums in addition to trendy bars in medieval surroundings.

Starting 18th June 2014

Varna, Bulgaria Located on the Black Sea Coast, Bulgaria is popular for one of the oldest musical festivals for classical music. The fest also features drama, puppet theatre, opera and a philharmonic orchestra.

There are also many beach resorts making it a great summer destination.

Bordeaux, France

The world’s major wine industry capital, Bordeaux hosts the main global wine fair, Vinexpo. Located close to the European Atlantic coast, the city offers pleasant climate and is a vibrant with plenty of attractions and landmarks to visit.

Starting 12th June 2014 For more information visit turkishairlines.com May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 75

5 technology

Alternatives To

WhatsApp

By Mohammed Mirza

Today we send more messages through apps rather than regular SMS. With Facebook acquiring WhatsApp, many are already worried that the social network may ruin the app. Related advertisements by Facebook were seen flooding Instagram post the acquisition. Now, if you are not comfortable about WhatsApp’s new owner and want to go elsewhere, here are some great alternatives.

KakaoTalk Messenger

Following the same registration process as whatsapp, KakaoTalk Messenger sends a verification code to your mobile phone number when you register for an account. It then goes through your contacts to find for other KakaoTalk users. You can also enjoy group chats, send pictures or audio notes, and share calendar and contact information. However Kaokao’s biggest plus point is its good quality calls.The app looks intuitive, with just the right amount of customisation options.

Platforms: iOS | Android | Windows Phone | BlackBerry

Kik Messenger

Having over 100 million users, Kik Messenger originally began as a BlackBerry only app back in 2009. However now it is available on a number of different platforms and doesn’t require users to have a mobile phone number. Register with your email address and choose a username to allow other users to find you.

Kik’s USP is having a built in browser, so users never have to leave Kik to browse the net. It is user friendly and though there aren’t any calling services, it supports many messaging functions, free!

Platforms: iOS | Android | Windows Phone | BlackBerry | Nokia

LINE

LINE, which was originally developed under the Japanese arm of Naver Corporation serves over 300 million users worldwide. It is available on many platforms and can be easily installed on your computer. LINE registers your phone number into its database where you can then connect with your phone contacts who are LINE users. With LINE you can exchange text, video, audio and graphics messages and also make free VoIP and conference calls with multiple LINE users.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows Phone, BlackBerry, Windows Phone, ASHA, Windows and Mac OS X.

Mohammed Mirza is the co founder of a popular online men’s lifestyle magazine. To get in touch with him email: mdmirza50@gmail.com

WeChat

The China-based WeChat (formerly Weixin) offers you a variety of ways to connect including messaging, photo-sharing, group chatting, voice and video calling and location sharing. The registration process is similar to that of Whats App that needs to verify your phone number. However during registration you can sync it with your Facebook and email account to let people find you more easily.

Platforms: iOS | Android | Windows Phone | BlackBerry | Nokia

76 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

ChatON

Developed by Samsung, ChatON is available on many other platforms too. Sign in with your Samsung account or just enter your name and verify your phone number; the app will start checking all your onboard contacts. However it offers no calling service.

Platforms: iOS | Android | Windows Phone | BlackBerry

interview

VIVA Hosts Soccer Legend Peter Bolesław Schmeichel launched the 4th VIVA-MUSS programme, last month. Voted the “World’s Best Goalkeeper” in 1992 and 1993, he is best remembered for his most successful years at the English Club Manchester United. Bahrain Confidential spoke to Schmeichel about his views on VIVA’s initiative and his love for soccer.

Also, for us it’s important to help develop good players; one of the reasons being that the market place for football is global. We would like to find the next big player at the age of 7 or 10. We can point kids in that direction and develop them to become a Manchester United player. Since the scheme is new we may not see the benefits just as yet but eventually will.

Throughout your career is there a lesson you’ve learned that has helped you save goals in life?

It’s important to have a direction, a destination. Once you identify what that is you got to work hard and have a passion for what you do.

You are a role model for aspirant footballers. We only see your red carpet moments but of course there’s been a lot of hard work behind it all.

MU has been a part of me since the age of 8, 9. It’s like a marriage, a love story. Oh trust me; it’s been a lot of hard work; but it’s been worth it!

For more information visit viva.com.bh

How do you like Bahrain?

It’s my first time in Bahrain and it’s a good start. I had breakfast near the beach; a little bit of breeze; the weather is really nice. I’ve been told I need to play the Montgomery golf course here. So, it’s an incentive to come back to Bahrain.

What do you think of the VIVA MUSS (Manchester United Soccer School) initiative?

The MUSS initiative is very positive not just for Bahrain or the region but globally. We as a football club have a social responsibility to share all the knowledge we have and try to inspire kids of all ages to play soccer.

Bahrain is a football crazy nation! Any message to aspiring soccer players in the Kingdom?

I figured that the minute I walked out of the plane (laughs)! I would encourage everyone to join the VIVA MUSS programme. Of course the ultimate prize is you get a trip to Manchester and train on the same grounds where all the Manchester United (MU) history was created.

Even if you don’t get there, it’s an experience and you learn the basic skills which are very important.

78 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Peter Schmeichel saving a goal

technology

a

How To Go Online

About Me Social Media Executive @ VIVA Bahrain Mohammed Zainal

You wake up early in the morning and turn off the alarm that went off on your smartphone.

You then get dragged into checking your emails, your Twitter and Instagram feed, throw a bit of Whatsapp somewhere in between and you are totally hooked!

Have you ever thought why social media is so addictive? Other than ease of access, there is content that you consume on

a daily basis like videos, stories and pictures that you like sharing with your friends and family. Why? Because it’s tailored for you and I bet that your friends would share things you are more likely to interact with than any other content pushed by a business or brand.

Businesses often jump into using social media without figuring out what they are trying to achieve either by using such channels, or

perhaps treating social media as a one way channel (outbound) instead of a two way communication channel (inbound).

We are replicating what we are doing offline in an online world which will more likely fail. Brands need to accept the fact that online has changed and treating this channel the same way as traditional marketing, is just not going to work.

4 pillars of Online Marketing Strategy Listen. Define your objectives. Engage/tactics. Measure Now before getting into details you should first integrate your business units, as social starts internally. All business units should be aligned and willing to be part of your social media strategy, including: • PR & Marketing • Customer Care • HR • Sales Listen First & always Listen:

• Online Advertising • Online Customer Care integration • Social Media Campaigns • Online how to Video • Responsive Website

Develop a plan and a system to listen on a regular basis • What are people saying about you and the competition?

• What are your competitors saying?

• What ideas and suggestions are people discussing about your industry?

• Are there any opportunities?

Measure Almost anything you do online is open to measurement: • New & unique website visits • Click through rate • Video views • Bounce rate • Engagement Rate • Cost Per Engagement

Define Your Objectives: Your objectives should be S.M.A.R.T [Specific Measurable Achievable Relevant and Timebound]

It’s essential to measure your online activities in order to know what worked and what didn’t. This will assist you with your next activity or even iterating an enhanced version of the activity that didn’t work. Remember anything we create in digital is open to measurement, learning, and ultimately iteration.

Examples of S.M.A.R.T objectives setting: • Maintain customer service level by X% • Generate X amount of online leads in September • Increase online sales by X% by end of Q2 • Decrease website bounce rate by X% Engage/Tactics

For more information visit viva.com.bh

These are the small or big pieces that you will put up together to support your objectives:

get stay social informed

Powered by

Subscribe

Twitter: @VIVA_BH

Google +: +vivabahrain

Instagram: @VIVA_BH

Facebook: VIVA.Bahrain

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 79

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.Bahrain-Confidential.com

Society

World TB Day

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel hosted a walkathon for World TB Day on 24th March.

Kempinski’s management and staff supporting World TB Day

14th Toyota National Body and Paint Skills Contest

The 14th Toyota National Body and Paint Skills Contest was held at Arad on 6th March.

Ebrahim, Michael, Fawaz Kanoo, Ebrahim Kanoo, Waleed Kanoo, Tadashi Anazawa, Khalid Kanoo and Michael

Participants in action!

Participants at the contest

80 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Geo Welcome To Bahrain Reception

InterContinental Regency Bahrain held the ‘Geo Welcome to Bahrain Reception’ on the occasion of GEO 2014 on 10th March.

Miriek, Geert and Christa

Matt, Tracey, Jonathan, Eric and Martin

Medhi with friends

John, Rob and Mark

Najah, Raiza and Blez

Ed Hager, Caroline and Chris

Abish and Lini

Ashok and Younis

Love My Lashes By Saks Fifth Avenue

Love My Lashes by Saks Fifth Avenue was held on 21st March.

Nada, Polly, Zena, Azhar, Fareeba, Bissan and Georgina

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 81

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Standup Comedy Night

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa hosted the entertaining Standup Comedy Night.

Tarek

Zainab and Noor Nimz, Natasha, Yasmin, Mai and Sharne

Imran, Bara and Yousef

Maram, Ahmed, Ali and Mariam

Wseem, Noor and Naz

Umssiah and Marwa

Yousef, Tarek, Sam and DJ Mojay

Omar, Bara, Abdulwahab, Ahmed, Mohammed and Tico

Imran, Mervin, Alonsa, Lawrence and Fulen

82 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Zeeshan and Maha

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com La Vie en Rose Spring/Summer 2014 Collection Preview

La Vie en Rose Spring/Summer 2014 Collection Preview was held at Bahrain City Centre on 19th March.

Mark, Kath and Edralyn

Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC) Family Day BFLC hosted Family Day for their staff on 22nd March at Funland.

Abby, Elena, Roz, Julie and Jen

Peter and Salman

Peter, Cynthia, Pauly, Sairah and Tilak

Larah and Vanessa

Clona, Nen, Beth,LJ and Chad

Rose, Kate and Adel

Diplomat Radisson Blu AGM Meeting of the National Hotel Company The Annual General Meeting was held on 27th March.

National Hotel Company Board of Directors

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 83

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com The K Hotel Annual Staff Party

The K Hotel held their annual staff party on 29th March.

Yaqoub, Jose, Hameed and Hussain

Daisy, Myvewe, Jikky and Monika

Arya, Aman, Cynthia and Abhijit

Iqbal, Ramesh, Marilyn and Bala

Bilala and Volker

Doreen and Cory

Jannet, Ailyn, Irene

The Jaguar Test Drive

The Jaguar Test Drive event was held at Block 338 on 27th March.

Nitin, Moussa, Mohammed, Shaima, Hannane and Ziad

Anthony and Hisham

Anthony, Hanane, Zena, Hannane and Gareth

84 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Raimond and Phill

Maeve

Earth Hour Family Party

The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa held the Earth Hour Family Party on 29th March.

Salman, Mohammed, Yousif, Mark, SH Hisham bin Abdulrahman, Faten, Prakash and Ned Shams, Nasser and Sarah

Alex and Deniz

SH Hisham bin Abdulrahman with Ritz Managment and Staff

Zaid, Rasha and Moe

Katy, Popey, Armi, Vivian and Rasha

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea was held at Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel on 23rd March.

It’s Tea Time!

Meisei Exclusive- Jessie May

The Meisei Exclusive with Jessie May was held on 28th march at Meisei.

Ori, Rita, Yvonne and Josh

Laura, Meissi, Lauren

Michael

Richard, Deane, Nesar and wife

Jessie

The Garden Party by the Embassy of Japan

The Garden Party organised by the Embassy of Japan was held at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador on 22nd March.

HE Christian Testot and HE Mohan Kumar

HE Hassan Fakhro and HE Iain Lindsey

Daisuke, Yukiko, Kauru and Mark Carol and Kris

Yuko, Yarika, Yaki and Miyuki

86 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Tomoko and HE Sabine Tauffman

Romina and Mala Yasmine, Rehan and Tanaka

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Wedding & Fashion Arabia

The opening of Wedding & Fashion Arabia took place at Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Centre on 27th March.

Jamal Hashim, Saher and Cpt. Nasser Salmi

Opening of Wedding & Fashion Arabia 2014 by SH Hind Al Khalifa

Al Areen Palace & Spa Management

Hair By Becca and team at Wedding & Fashion Arabia 2014

Owning the ramp

Abdul Wahab Al Hawaj, SH Hind Al Khalifa and Amal

Truffle Season Gala Evening

The Truffle Season Gala Evening was held at The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa on 20th March.

Andi and Nabil

Badria and Abdulrahman Fakhro

Mark Heinze and Wife

Melanie, Bianca and Roselyn

Kauru, HE Alberto Vicchi,Cheff Guy and Claude

Lana, Rula and Debbie

HE Mohammed Ali Siraj, HE Alberto Vicchi, Michael, Guy and Denise

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 87

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Launch of Ferrari 458 Speciale

The launch of the Ferrari 458 Speciale was held at The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa on 4th April.

Wendy and JapMaria

Maya, Libera, Kolja, Marina and Nicolas

Megan, Anthony,White and Penny

Karina

Ferrari Team with Euro Motors Management Melissa and Jenny

Bill, Weena and Michele

Zena and HE Alberto Vicchi

Stephen, Erica, Lucy and Nick

Geila and Anne

88 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Nawaf Al Zayani and Qayz H Zubbi

Mariana and Basma

Ritz Carlton Energy Party

The Ritz Carlton Energy Party was held on 4th April.

ARABIA’S MOST INTELLIGENT MAGAZINE The multi-award winning Arabian magazine

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May issue on sale now – BD2 Gulf Insider is the multi award winning Arabian business and current affairs magazine that also covers property and expat news, interviews, car reviews, travel features, even a bit of art and fashion.

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society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Mother’s Day Get Together

Malabar Gold & Diamonds hosted a get together for mothers on Mother’s Day at Lulu Hypermarket on 30th March.

At the get together

Zena

Mita, Sanghamitra, Sama and Ghazala

Cake Cutting ceremony

Behnaz, Jerestine, Kayan and Kaizad

Swetha, Latha, Bharath, Druv and Shwetha

Colours of Asia

Colours of Asia was held at HUE Lounge on 9th April.

Mariam, Basma, Hayat, Usma, Fareeda,Ahmed, Roya, Seema, Afshan and Bushra

Kanika and Usma

90 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Fareeda, Seema, Fareeda and Roya

Maryam, Bushra, Usma, Afshan and Amina

Lamis, Yara, Muneera and SH Mara Al Khalifa

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will be coming live on 1st February 2012

Option 01

DR. LANA PETERS Best American Restaurant 4HE WAITING IS OVER AND &ELDA S #UT 3TYLE 3TUDIO IS NOW OPEN in the Middle East Since 1997.

Now ser ving an assortment of ,OCATED AT THE $ELMON (OTEL -ANAMA

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OSTEOPATH.

Option 02

American SouthernRestaurant Style Family Best American Restaurant & Lounge

in the Breakfast, Middle Lunch East&Since Dinner 1997

TRANSFORMATION &ELDA WHO TRAINED AT THE GLOBALLY RENOWNED 6IDAL 3ASSOON 4RAINING "3# (ONS /STEO -ED 'RAD $IP !NIMAL !CADEMY AND THE 3HISEIDO 3CHOOL OF MAKE #HIROPRACTIC . $ $IPLOMA IN .ATUROPATHY UP OFFERS THE LATEST HAIR MAKE UP SERVICES AS WELL AS MANICURES PEDICURES AND NAIL - ! / ! - ! 6 # !

EXTENSIONS AT VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES

&OR MORE DETAILS 4EL

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EMAIL FELDA MAIL COM Gulf Hotel

“Transport on request, please to bookEast in advance.�

Serving Real available American Food in Thecall Middle since 1997

We are located in Juffair...Come see us!

We are are located located in in Juffair...Come Juffair...Comesee seeus! us!

Grand Mosque

Grand Grand Mosque Mosque Gulf Gulf Hotel Hotel

Al Jazira Supermarket

Al Al Jazira Jazira Supermarket

Supermarket Areej, established in 2004, is the luxury Arabic lifestyle magazine published from Bahrain by Arabian &OR APPOINTMENTS CALL Magazines. It has a strong focus on fashion and luxury but also gives readers interesting and ? sections on art, society, shopping, home decor, and health. In November ?2009, Areej $R ,ANA 0ETERS ON 4EL informative NSA NSA NSA %MAIL LANADAWNPETERS GMAIL COM circulation was substantially increased as it became the only magazine to be delivered to 3,000 Al Watan newspaper subscribers.Tel: 17725550 email: ricsbah@yahoo.com ,OCATION &ORT 'ARDENS +ARRANAH CLOSE TO *AWAD 0ETROL 3TATION Tel: 17 725550 email: ricsbah@yahoo.com

www.FashionArabia.net

re o m s i g n Groomi haircut a than just

Tel: 17725550 email: ricsbah@yahoo.com

DR. LANA PETERS OSTEOPATH. Animal Care Clinic "3# (ONS /STEO -ED 'RAD $IP !NIMAL Advanced Veterinary Care #HIROPRACTIC . $ $IPLOMA IN .ATUROPATHY - ! / ! - ! 6 # !

THIS RAMADAN

DOMESTIC STAFF

ProfessIonal UNIFORMS

Âœ}ĂŠEĂŠ >ĂŒĂŠ Ă€ÂœÂœÂ“ÂˆÂ˜} STARTING AT

BD 7.500

3UPPORT 4HE $OGFATHER TO SUPPORT !NIMAL 2ESCUE

HOUSE OF UNIFORMS Tony +973 39 629 889

Consultations Lab tests Ultrasound Grooming Medical Boarding

Vaccines Hospitalization Surgery X-Rays

OfďŹ ce Phone: +973 1761 2459 After Hours: +973 3635 9358 Email: animalcare@batelco.com.bh

&OR APPOINTMENTS CALL OfďŹ ce Open: 9am-6pm Saturday-Thursday $R ,ANA 0ETERS ON 4EL By appointment only %MAIL LANADAWNPETERS GMAIL COM ,OCATION &ORT 'ARDENS +ARRANAH CLOSE TO *AWAD 0ETROL 3TATION

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Marinell, Joseph and Geralyn

Azadea Goes Knowledge Competition

Azadea Goes Knowledge Competition was held at Virgin Megastore on 1st April.

Monia

Abdulla Hanine and Pierre and Joe

Abdulla and Joe

Jericson, Jenny and Marilyn

Ahmed and Ebrahim

Samar and Fatima

Team Azadia

Oman Air 10 years of Operation

Oman Air celebrated 10 years of operation on 9th April at their office in Manama.

Cake cutting By HE Abdulla bin Rashid Al Madailwi

Oman Air Official with Invited Guests

92 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Launch of Porsche Macan

The launch of the Porsche Macan was held at the Gulf Convention Centre on 1st April.

Rashed, Yousif, Nabil and Abdul Hamid

Mark, Smily, Melissa, Gareth and Dan

Nick and Josephine

Dr Ramesh and Neena

Gernot Tauffman and Julian Lee Newton, Lesley and Peter

Geline and Lubna

Morgan and Louise

Samar and Uwe Herman

Promod Resort Day

The fun-filled resort day by Promod was held at Al Bander Resort on 8th April.

Dalia and Raihana with invited media

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 93

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Launch of The All-New BMW 2 Series Coupe in Bahrain

The launch of The All-New BMW 2 Series Coupe in Bahrain was held at Royal Golf Club on 30th March.

Hameed, Ayyoob and John

John, Paul and Shihab

Lubna Basma

Nick

Zena

L’occitane En Provence- Press Breakfast

L’occitane En Provence, press breakfast was held at Ashraf BGDC on 7th April.

Deseree, Fareeba, Polly, Mohammed, Akkoui and Ali Diab with invited media

94 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Lubna and Basma

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com AA Bin Hindi Celebrates KIA Showroom’s Renovation

AA Bin Hindi inaugurated the KIA showroom and also launched two of its latest cars, the Cerato Koupe and the KIA Optima.

Natalia and Victoria

AA Bin Hindi Management with Muharraq Club Basket Ball team

Posing with the latest Cerato Koupe

AA Bin Hindi management with Staff

Cake Cutting by SH Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa with AA BinHindi Management

Bin Hindi management with cricket team

Bahrain French Business Club

Bahrain French Business Club was held at Diplomat Radisson Blu on 7th April.

Bahrain French Business Club members

Rep Min of Social Devt, Waleed Sherif, Rudolphe Mekki, Waleed Kanoo and Philippe

Mohammed Salahudden, Abdulrahman, Khamis Al Muqla, Jassim and Abdulla

Abdul Nabi Shoala, Abdulla Juma, Saher, Rudolphe Melki and Cpt Maher Salman Al Musallam

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 95

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Fun Day

A fun filled day sponsored by Tala Islands and Alosra supermarkets was held on 11th April.

Kahlan and Cole

Mariam and Maya Basket Ball team

Bisan, Bashar, Ziad, Nour, Hashim, Lama, Majid and Renad Cecilie, Mira, Fares, Alisia and Samerawit

Layan and Fares

Mehdi

Vasiliki, Tasos, Stavros, Lia and Andreas

Mahar and Maria

Rania, Aseel, Ameena and Alaa

3rd Annual Inter-Hotel Charity Cricket Tournament

3rd annual Inter-Hotel Charity Cricket Tournament was held The Ritz-Carlton hotel & Spa on 12th April.

Team Gulf Hotel

Team Diplomat

96 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Team Domain

Team Elite Hotels

Team Crown Plaza

Team Ritz

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com White Lounge & Upside Down Party

White Lounge & Upside Down Party was held at Bushido on 3rd April.

Philippe,Rudolphe Zeina and HE Christian Testott

Kirsty, Alex, Ali and Anna

Josh and Lucy

James and Emilie

Zena and Friends

Cegric and Anis

Kambeez, Ali, Sam, Lu and Kareem

Daisy and Patrick

Mel, Jenny and Mark With Friends

Nezar and Patrick

Black & White

The Black & White party by InterContinental Regency Bahrain was held on 11th April.

Vivian with guests

Jonathan, Anooda , Mohammed and Yasmine

Jasmine, Agath, Vivian and Yousif

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 97

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Craig David DJ Set

Craig David Dj Set took place at Klub 360 on 4th April.

Faith and Dr Pierre

Salima and Noura

Jess, Deema, Shaikha and Robyn

Angel, Laura and Shelly

Aryony and Lizzie

Deema and Shaikha

A Workshop on the ISO 9001

Junaid Perfumes conducted a workshop on the ISO 9001 at Elite Crystal Hotel.

Attendees at the workshop

98 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Laura and Shelly

Sarah, Caroline, Francesci and Franco

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com “Closing Ceremony Event” of the Bahrain Maritime Group

“Closing Ceremony event” of the Bahrain Maritime Group was held at Hani Royal Hotel on 10th April.

Essa, Essa, Khalid, Mohammed and Saif

Kim, Mel, SH Khalifa bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Selim and Arturo

Abdulrazak, Attar, Khalid, and Yousef

Ali, SH Khalifa bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Abdul Rahim and Maya

Fahad, Essa, Abdulraheem, Mohammed, Omar and Dawood

Papa John’s International 30 Years Celebration

Papa John’s International celebrated 30 years at The Jawad Dome on 6th March.

30 Years of Papa John’s

International Autism Day

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Celebrated the International Autism Day.

Supporting International Autism Day

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 99

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Formula 1 2014

Formula 1, Bahrain’s First Night Race was held from 4th to the 6th of April.

100 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Formula 1 2014

Formula 1, Bahrain’s First Night Race was held from 4th to the 6th of April.

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 101

society Latest society photos at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com Formula 1 2014

Formula 1, Bahrain’s First Night Race was held from 4th to the 6th of April.

102 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

business

BT Partners with VIVA

BT announced that it has signed an agreement with VIVA Bahrain, the largest mobile operator in the Kingdom and a subsidiary of Saudi Telecommunications Company (STC), to build a Global IP Exchange (GPIX) interoperability hub in Bahrain. The hub is targeted in the first quarter of 2015. VIVA Bahrain will deliver hosting and connectivity whilst providing a new route to market for BT’s Global IP Exchange Voice and interoperability services in the region.

Mr Ahmed Bin Hindi (left sitting) and Sheikh Rashid (right) along with both parties’ officials.

AA Bin Hindi Motor’s KIA to Sponsor Muharraq’s Basketball Team

Eng. Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, VIVA CEO; Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Communications & Wael El Kabbany, BT Vice President (MENA) at the press conference

Bin Hindi Motors, the exclusive distributors of KIA Motors in Bahrain recently signed a contract for sponsoring one of the oldest and reputed sports club, the Muharraq Club Basketball team for the sports year 2014/2015. The agreement was signed between HE Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulrahman Al-Khalifa, Vice Chairman of Muharraq Club and Ahmed Abdulla bin Hindi, Vice Chairman & CEO of the AA Bin Hindi Group, in the presence of KIA Motor’s President Alex Chung, senior officials of the Muharraq Club and AA Bin Hindi’s top management. Recently KIA Motor’s management celebrated the victory of the Bahrain Zain cup for the sports year 2013/2014. During that event, Mohammed Bin Hindi rewarded each player and felicitated the winning team. The Muharraq club management team also presented the AA Bin Hindi management with a jersey of the American Player, CJ that was signed by him and the rest of the team members, expressing their thanks for the relentless efforts in supporting and sponsoring the team.

Business

In Brief

Travelex Opens 29th Store

Travelex marked its 10th anniversary with the opening of its 29th store in Bahrain. The opening comes as Travelex builds momentum against its growth strategy, for which the Middle East plays an integral part.

The new store at Budaiya provides access to more than 30 foreign currencies, Travelex Money Transfer (TMT), Western Union, Buy Back Guarantee as well as collection for online pre-orders from travelex. bh Travellers from Bahrain can now order their travel money online, commission-free, following the launch of the country’s first website for online currency orders.

For more information visit travelex.bh

104 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

business

BizNet and RCSI Bahrain: Breast Cancer Presentation Dr Ghufran, Lecturer at Family and Community Medicine Department shared the cultural nuances, experiences and decision-making tactics of female Bahraini breast cancer survivors. Over 30 BIZNET members and guests attended this event. This is the third yearly event to be hosted by RCSI with the 2012 event covering social media and education. BizNet is a network and business platform for leaders, managers, owners and entrepreneurs. Its events include business items as well as presentations. Networking is facilitated through a variety of interactive on-line and traditional methods.

Huawei Offers Trips to Spain

Huawei launched a regional campaign to reward football fans with the opportunity to see their favourite team live in Spain as part of its new global partnership with the official football league, Liga de Futbol Profesional. Fans across Bahrain stand a chance to win a trip to Spain, to watch an LFP football game with each purchase of a Huawei smartphone. Consumers will then be directed to compete in a Facebook Football game application as part of Huawei’s fun and interactive competition in order to become the lucky country winner.

Motorcity Holds Isuzu Customers Meeting

Motorcity, the sole distributor of Isuzu trucks, in Bahrain, organised the Isuzu customers meeting. Waleed Kanoo, Chairman of Motorcity welcomed the guests stated that the meeting provides a platform to share the brand’s vision and express gratitude to customers for their loyalty. Headquartered and having a production facility based in Tokyo, Isuzu is the world’s largest manufacturer of light duty commercial vehicles.

For more information visit the showroom in Nuwaidrat or call, Tel. +973 1770 2111/ visit motorcity.com.bh.

Yahoo Maktoob Revamp

Yahoo Maktoob announced the launch of its revamped homepage for both its English and Arabic editions in the Middle East and Africa region. The new Yahoo Maktoob experience is a smart design that is intuitive, functional and optimised for easy, everyday consumption, and is fast and consistent across PCs, tablets, and smartphones. Yahoo Maktoob also announced a partnership with leading producer of original video content in Saudi Arabia, UTURN. Starting in April, Yahoo Maktoob will launch a UTURN channel under its video platform Yahoo Screen, featuring UTURN’s new productions throughout 2014, including leading comedy series, a library of UTURN’s best video content, as well as exclusive content that includes behind the scenes videos.

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 105

business

Khaleeji Commercial Bank Welcomes New Interns

Khaleeji Commercial Bank (KHCB), one of Bahrain’s fast growing Islamic retail banks welcomed 10 university students for a two- month internship programme during which they will acquaint themselves with the process of banking operations and procedures of different departments at KHCB. Headquartered in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Khaleeji Commercial Bank BSC is a fast growing Islamic retail bank that endeavours to achieve its vision to be a leading domestic and regional Islamic Bank, providing a comprehensive range of high quality Shari’a compliant banking and Investment products, services and investment opportunities to their customers and corporate clients.

Gulf Hotel – Bahrain Appoints New Director

Zaher Kassir has been newly appointed as Director of Business Development and Strategy at Gulf Hotel Bahrain. Having rich professional experience spanning 15 years, he has held management positions at other five-star in many countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Lebanon, Sudan, Libya and Tunisia. The General Manager of Gulf Hotel Bahrain, Rahim Abu Omar said, “The appointing of Zaher Kassir is in line with the hotel’s development and modernisation plan for the hospitality industry.” them continued success and progress in serving the Bahraini community.

Zaher Kassir, Director of Business Development and Strategy at Gulf Hotel – Bahrain

Is The US Dollar Rally A Boon Or Bane For GCC Countries?

Tholoor Mathew Thomas, a CFA charter holder and a Member of CFA Society Bahrain, explores whether a US dollar rally would benefit or hinder the region.

Volatility is an integral part of the global currency market since the abolition of Bretton Woods agreement in 1971 and the adoption of floating exchange rate system.

The GCC countries, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Kingdom of Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Sultanate of Oman, have historically shied away from adopting floating exchange rates and instead pegged their currencies to the US dollar because the bulk of oil trade is invoiced in dollars. However, Kuwait dropped the peg to the tumbling US dollar, which declined almost 51.4% from its high in 1985 to 2013 based on the popular dollar index DXY, and pegged their currency to a basket of currencies in May 2007.

The sharp decline in the value of US dollar against leading currencies has contributed to the rise in local inflation. Any

106 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

decline in the value of US dollar raises the cost of imports for GCC countries, which depend greatly on imports. In theory, Kuwait is insulated to some extent from this inflation.

On the contrary, any appreciation in the dollar works to the advantage of those GCC currencies pegged to the dollar.

Several Gulf economists were calling for dropping the dollar-peg of the GCC currencies and moving to a more flexible floating exchange rate system that may help them fight the high inflation risks and other economic challenges. The GCC monetary authorities have been in discussion of a monetary union.

Although the idea for a monetary union in the GCC took its birth in the late 1970s, no progress was made until recently.

Steps were taken a few years back; Oman decided to opt out from the Gulf Monetary Union in 2006, followed by UAE

Thomas

in 2009. Kuwait’s response was to peg its Dinar to a basket of international currencies as a major step to achieve economic policy convergence and to meet the criteria for joining the monetary union.

The question is whether to peg the single currency to the US dollar or to a basket of currencies. If the single GCC currency is introduced and if the dollar peg is continued, there won’t be a difference from the current situation, unless the dollar makes a meaningful recovery. A unified decision by all GCC countries for a single currency would eliminate several teething problems that the single currency may face. The market is waiting anxiously to see how the single currency will function when it is introduced.

pets Pets

Looking LookingFor ForA A

Home!

Home!

If only animals could talk, you’d be hearing If only animals could talk, you’d hearing their sad, pitiful stories.

But since theybe can’t, we are their sad, pitiful stories.

But since they can’t, giving these adorable creatures a voice. Onewe wayare or giving these creatures a voice. way or another, theyadorable have been hurt and abusedOne in ways another, they beenahurt anddoing abused ways you would nothave imagine human to in another you wouldand notyet imagine a human another creature, the fact remainsdoing that to these animals creature, and yet theand factleft remains thatallthese animals end up abandoned for dead over the end up abandoned and left of forbuying dead all overplease the Kingdom.

If you’re thinking a pet, Kingdom.

If you’re thinking of buying a pet, please don’t - instead, adopt one today. don’t - instead, adopt one today.

BSPCA Animals

Interested in Adopting?

Visit the BSPCA in Animal Welfare Centre in Askar, see www.bspca.org for directions.

Open for adoption viewing Sunday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday and Saturday, 9am to 1pm. Tel. +973 1759 1231.

Bongo

Ashley

Bon-Bon

Bluey

Sweep

BSPCA Animals Bobbin

Oddie

Fudge

Ken

Wubbles Berney

Banglanka and Rio

Tabatha

Pickle

Oreo

Vinny

Barbie Tabasco

Ginger

Riplay

Cava

Blade

Kunja

Pancake

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?

Rainbow

Apparition 01

02

03

04

Call Tony ‘The Dogfather’ Waters on Tel. 05 +973 3962 9889 or visit06 www.thedogfatherbahrain.com

Punch

Mary

07

08

Sunshine

09

10

11

12

Jipsy

Ralphie Fosterma

Tony The Dogfather Kits

Interested in Adopting?

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

Dumped Puppies

Do Doyou youhave haveanimal animalconcerns? concerns?Need Need aavet? vet?Call CallAnimal AnimalCare CareClinic Clinicinin Hamala, Hamala,Tel. Tel.+973 +9731761 17612459 2459oror Nonie NonieCoutts, Coutts,Tel. Tel.+973 +9731724 17245515.

5515.

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 107 October 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 111

high end property

Feels Like Home UK’s real estate market welcomes 3 new high end properties.

Tunnel Wharf Penthouse

One of the largest river fronted penthouses located in central London, the apartment exceeds 3,500 sq ft of internal accommodation and has nearly 2,500 sq ft of outside terraces, both north and south facing. Every room within the penthouse has a beautiful view; Tower Bridge, The Shard, The City Skyline, Canary Wharf are just a few of the landmarks that can be seen throughout the apartment. There are six bedrooms, four bathrooms, a vast open plan reception area and six terraces, including one of the largest river fronted terraces within London. The apartment has direct lift access into it and is located in the heart of the tranquil Rotherhithe Village conservation area, a development stooped in history and opposite the Brunel museum and the Mayflower Pub. Rotherhithe station is within easy access and there are a large variety of bars and restaurants close by.

£3,950,000

Tower View Apartments

Leasehold

Located within a historical riverside warehouse, transformed into six prestigious homes, Tower View (image on following page) is a two bedroom, river fronted apartment overhanging the Thames. Incorporating great, contemporary design and panoramic views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks, the apartments offer spacious and open-plan living, kitchen and dining areas. Natural materials including granite, wooden flooring and floor to ceiling glass windows maximising property’s waterfront location, have been used.

The apartments also feature direct lift access, under-floor heating, fully-integrated Miele kitchens and bespoke Italian-designed fitted wardrobes. A short walk from St Katharine Docks, one of the capital’s most vibrant waterside destinations with its cafés, restaurants and bars, Tower Views is also close to Tower Hill station with connections to Bank, London Bridge, the West End and Canary Wharf. Riverbus services run every 10 to 15 minutes from St Katharine’s Pier and Tower Pier.

108 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

high end property

£3,100,000

Leasehold

Cinnabar Wharf Penthouse

One of London’s most spectacular river fronted penthouse apartments offering unrestricted views of the River Thames, Tower Bridge and the city skyline, The Penthouse exceeds 2,900 sq ft of internal accommodation as well as over 2,400 sq ft of private and offers a vast reception area with an open-plan kitchen and dining area. Every room has access to the riverside terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows. All three double bedrooms have an en suite bathroom or shower room, fitted wardrobes and dressing areas. There is ample storage throughout the apartment as well as a guest cloakroom and a separate utility room. Cinnabar Wharf is a Berkeley Homes flagship development benefits from 24-hour concierge, on-site building manager, lift access and secure allocated parking. Offering a wonderful historic portrayal of London’s life, the property is close to Tower Hill station (Circle and District line) and Wapping station (London Overground).

£6,500,000

Leasehold

For more information call, Tel: +973 3996 3485 or Email: catesby.paget@cluttons.com Visit cluttons.com

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 109

review

WHAT BECCA

DID NEXT! Test Drove the New Porsche!

Oh how love my job!

Last month I was invited by Porsche to spend two days test-driving the new SUV Porsche Macan in Ras Al Khaimah, which by the way is a stunning location bordering Oman and roughly an hour outside Dubai. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway.

Journalists were flown in from the region and we were put up in the ever so posh Waldorf Astoria. The newly launched Porsche Macan is a more economical version to the hugely successful Cayenne and boasts the typical sporty handling characteristics that have become synonymous with the Porsche brand.

Our ‘challenge’ on the first day was to experience how the Macan handles off road, which surprisingly does well considering its stunning good looks and compact size.

We drove in convoy to a specially designed ‘challenge course’ in the sand beside the sea.

Obstacles included an iron hill, a five metre tall construction with a metal ramp.

The side slope, articulation ramps and a sand hill. This allowed ‘us’, the drivers to experience firsthand the features and technology that enabled this car to breeze through the course as if it was driving on a flat road.

The Macan’s Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is designed to leverage the power precisely according to the terrain’s needs. As we drove across bumps, dips and had to make severe turns, we were able to

110 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

electronically control the shock absorbers for maximum effect, control and total comfort.

Believe me! These dips and bumps are not the equivalent of molehills and any regular car, I’m sure would’ve been towed off to the garage and the driver would be in hospital suffering from whiplash. But in the Macan, despite at times holding on for dear life (as a passenger), it was a smooth drive for most of it and so much fun.

This car has been designed to target the sporty, trendy twenty something and that’s the impression I got as I drove it.

There is loads of boot room for camping gear, possibly a surf board or bike and yet cool enough to pull up outside a club. It was excellent to drive off road and would give anyone confidence because this car can handle most terrains with ease.

“This little baby rocked the winding road with ease and at considerable speed.”

To give us energy for the following morning’s activities, we dined on delicious food beside the beach and exchanged

stories about the days activities..

The following morning my smile turned upside down at breakfast that the day’s activity was to be THREE whole hours in a car. Just ask my friends and family what I’m like after half an hour, ‘Are we nearly there yet?’ comes to mind.

As it was – the trip turned out to be an incredible drive and I’m not exaggerating when I say the hours flew by. The drive was incredibly smooth, taking into account that the previous day we had taken the car on a serious off road asylum.

We drove through ‘town’ which reminded me off Bahrain a long time ago and then hit the recently constructed but yet to be completed road - Jebel al Jais which led up to the UAE’s tallest mountain. The road was opened up especially for the test drive – now that’s influence. The scenery was spectacular, imagine the Grand Canyon in the Middle East then you’re picturing it!

This little baby rocked the winding road with ease and at considerable speed. As a passenger, I seriously got a little nervous at points and hoped the car came with built in wings. But that was only because I was a ‘back seat driver’ at the time. The car stuck to the road with ease and felt very safe The road allowed us to test the cars agile handling and well balanced chassis. The Porsches’s Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) gearbox, fitted as standard on the Macan ensured seamless power delivery from engine to tarmac and believe me I’m no car fanatic.

I felt it!

review Iron Hill

Rebecca flying back on “Her Sea Plane”

Rebecca and Porsche

Would I get one? Yes! After a fabulous complimentary facial, I was flown back to Dubai on what was to be my very own Sea Plane (as I was the only one on it). Thank you Porsche!

SPECS Five doors, five seats and boasts plenty of space – 500 litres which can be increased to 1,500 litres. The interior has been designed as such that you don’t just simply sit in the Macan – the ergonomic architecture integrates you into the vehicle. The essentials are seen at a glance and positioned close at hand. The instrument cluster has a three-

dial design and the rev counter is positioned in the centre. The newly developed multifunction sports steering wheel is inspired by the ultramodern concept and design of the 918 Spyder super sports cars.

In the Macan, two manually operated and ergonomically 7 positioned gearshift paddles enable fast and dynamic gear changes.

The Macan S is the “base” version of the Macan and is powered by a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 producing 340 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. With Porsche’s excellent, paddle-shifted sevenspeed dual-clutch transmission and an active all-wheel-drive system with optional torque-

vectoring, the Macan S is about as sporty as a crossover can get.

The Macan Turbo is a quicker, even sportier version of Porsche’s all-new Macan crossover. It is powered by a 400-hp, twin-turbo V-6 mated to a seven-speed transmission and a sophisticated all-wheeldrive system.

For more information visit www.porsche.com/macan www.facebook.com/porsche or www.youtube.com/porsche

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 111

cars

CAR NEWS Bin Hindi Celebrates KIA Showroom’s Renovation.

In keeping with AA Bin Hindi’s tradition of bringing world class care and standards to its customers in Bahrain, the KIA showroom was renovated and inaugurated in Khamis by Mr Ahmed Bin Hindi, Vice Chairman and CEO of AA Bin Hindi Group and Mr Alex Chung, President of KIA Motors Corp. Regional HQ for Middle East & Africa operations. AA Bin Hindi’s top management, VIPs and the media were present at the event. A new KIA showroom is expected to be inaugurated at Arad to cater to customers in the area. KIA also launched two of its latest cars, the Cerato Koupe and the KIA Optima. The two-door Cerato Koupe is stylishly designed and offers buyers an impressive list of technology and safety features. There is the 2.0-litre power plant producing 161 horsepower at 6,500 rpm.

The 2014 KIA Optima looks great and incorporates a whole range of state-of-the-art safety features including Blind Spot Detection, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) for when you have to brake suddenly, all-around disc brakes for smooth, controlled braking, and parking aids. Packing power and performance, the Optima is available with both, 2.0 and 2.4 petrol engines which offer an advanced 6-speed automatic transmission.

For your test drive visit the showroom in Khamis or call, Tel. +973 1740 8800 / email: kiasales@binhindi.com / visit: binhindi.com

GT Academy Nissan and Sony PlayStation have joined forces again to bring GT Academy back to the Middle East for 2014. The Bahrain leg of the competition will be held at the Nissan Sitra showroom until 31st May 2014. Visitors can compete on dedicated GT Academy simulator pods and the fastest will be guaranteed a place in the regional final.

GT Academy is designed to identify gamers with the most natural racing talent in the virtual world, before working with them to transform them into professional racing drivers in the real world. Selection is initially made through times set on a customized stage within the Gran Turismo game, now in its sixth generation. The fastest gamers then have the chance at a Regional Final event, before the very best head to Race Camp where they are assessed on their fitness, mental attitude and car control. Ultimately the winner gets a seat behind the wheel of a Nissan 370Z GT race car.

For further information visit facebook.com/Nissan.Bahrain or facebook.com/GTAcademy or twitter.com/PlayStation_ME

112 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Lana Peters, Osteopath 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 7730 0600 For a map of our location and to find out about osteopathy and how we can help you, visit our website:

www.backonthemove.com Email: enquiries@backonthemove.com

Lana advert.indd 1

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. T.: 17 813 815, 17 827 999 (ext 1318) E-mail: healthclub@alsafirhotel.com www.alsafirhotel.com

22/02/2014 17:26

cars

F1Champion Jenson Button Drives the Rolls-Royce British Formula One World Champion Jenson Button swapped his single-seat track car for a luxurious RollsRoyce Ghost supplied by Euro Motors, the sole dealer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, over the F1 weekend this year.

The racing driver handpicked a Madeira Red Rolls-Royce Ghost from Euro Motors Bahrain to tour the island. “I am absolutely delighted to be accompanied by the very best in British luxury as I travel the world this year. I especially look forward to driving Wraith, a fantastic addition to the Rolls-Royce fleet and quite simply a stunning car to look at and drive.” said Button.

For a test drive visit euromotors.com.bh

The Volkswagen Beetle It’s official! The next generation of the Volkswagen automotive classic, the Beetle, is set to arrive in Bahrain this July. Sporting a new design and series of new technologies, the new Beetle is powered by an all-new 2.0L turbo and 155 kW/210 hp engine.

This latest model breaks free of the geometry of the previous model and displays impressive sports appeal; primarily in its extended bonnet, sharply swept-back windscreen and a longer wheelbase. The modified, luxurious, spacious interior enhancescs the ultimate coupé experience.

Despite its individuality, the styling follows the Volkswagen design DNA with some of the Beetle’s longstanding characteristics remaining the same. These include its round headlights (optional bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights are available for the first time in this model series), the flared wings, the shapes of the bonnets, sides and door sills and – more than ever – the large wheels (up to 19inch) that can be integrated.

The next generation Beetle will be available at Volkswagen Centre Bahrain from July 2014 For more information visit behbehani.com.bh/motors

114 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

opinion

Taste Life!

John Ridley encourages home cooking.

John R Ridley

“…home prepared meals can be equally fattening, but by cooking yourself you can control the ingredients used.”

T

ime and time again, people tell me they have no interest in food; however, I have yet to meet anyone in Bahrain who does not have a preferred restaurant or favoured fish dish.

If cajoled, most will express an opinion on the meals prepared in the last episode of a TV cookery programme, or on the contestant who failed to impress the panel of food critics judging a televised competition.

We know about food and how to make a good tempura; from the comfort of our armchairs we’ve become experts; our lack of interest is but an overused cliché.

Twenty years ago, most of us would spend an hour each day preparing meals; today it’s closer to 35 minutes; time not spent chopping onions and coriander but waiting for the restaurant delivery guy to arrive.

We privileged media types are told that we don’t understand that the modern pressures of life are so great that people don’t have time to spend in the kitchen preparing meals. Yet, we are prepared to spend three to four hours each day watching television; we’d rather watch someone else cook whilst we eat a sandwich - the most frequently consumed meal.

Chopping and sautéing onions and carrots, browning the meat, then simmering it for an hour in chopped tomatoes and stock, before adding fresh herbs, looks quick and easy on the TV, but it’s hard work; far easier to pick up the phone, order, and let someone else prepare our meals.

116 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Of course, we are all guilty, it’s a consequence, partly, of affluence; the recession generated a nostalgic interest in traditional cooking, but this didn’t translate into people cooking from scratch, they continued ordering home delivery or assembling meals from jars and packets.

Convenience food is expensive, and tends to have a high fat and sugar content; we shouldn’t be eating it regularly. Of course, home prepared meals can be equally fattening, but by cooking yourself you can control the ingredients used.

It’s time we stopped kidding ourselves that we don’t have the time or the skills to cook; this evening, spend half an hour cooking from scratch, something simple, like grilled lamb cutlets with steamed and buttered green vegetables; you’ll enjoy the cooking - and savouring the sweet fresh flavours. Having the TV on in the background is fine; better still, share the preparations with your children whilst discussing food and nutrition, Inside Story, or Arabia’s Got Talent; it won’t be long before they ask to spend the morning at the Budaiya farmers’ market, and preparing delightfully fresh meals using their new found skills.

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

gastro

GASTRO Bushido 5th Anniversary Gala Dinner Thursday 15th May from 8pm until late.

Dress code: Black Tie & Gown. BD35 for entertainment, dinner and soft-drinks/ BD45 for entertainment, dinner and wine-pairing for each course. Bushido Restaurant is looking forward to celebrating their 5th Anniversary in grown-up style, this year. Enjoy good food and great music by multi award-winning musician and model, Clarita de Quiroz.

Friday Brunch Every Friday from 12 noon to 3.30pm. Unlimited food and drink; starts from BD18.5++ (BD24.5++ alcoholic package) with live cooking stations, live music and kids’ activities.

Bento Box at lunchtime daily for BD 9.

Enjoy a selection of Bento Box packages, each with a variety of sashimi/sushi, vegetables, grilled meat and rice served complete with salad, miso soup, mixed fruits and green tea.

Trader Vic’s

Clarita

French Week Daily Menu Promotion on Sunday 4th until Saturday 10th May. Enjoy a selection of French including Duck Liver Terrine, Salmon Tartar, Beef Fillet, Profiteroles and Crepe Suzette and French entertainment playing live every evening.

Tiki Friday Every Friday from 12 noon until 3.30pm. Enjoy a barbecue party with a selection of flame grilled food and dance to the live lounge music of our DJ, in the beautiful surroundings of Mai-Tai Lounge.

BD14++ food & soft drinks/ BD 17++ food, soft drinks and 3 refreshing beverages (alcoholic) For bookings call, Tel +973 1758 6555 at Week French der Vic’s Tra

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1758 3555

Dine

at 3

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taur

ant!

ically e nte at Bus rtain hido

Elite Resort & Spa Paelleras Night Where: Al Noor Tent When: 730pm onwards Price: BD12 per person Thursday Night Grills Where: Waikiki When: 730pm onwards Price: BD12 per person

Lunchtime Set-menu at lunchtime daily for BD9.5++. Enjoy a 3-course meal served with steamed rice and green tea including grilled salmon, Teppanyaki chicken and chargrilled lamb kofta.

BUDDHA-BARSPECIAL New Daily Specials served from “Buddha-Bar” Paris.

Chef Eric Rousselieres, Executive Chef of the Buddha-Bar network, joined the Bushido team as part of the company’s ChefExchange programme. Enjoy a selection of Daily Specials available for their guests to enjoy, courtesy of Buddha-Bar, Paris.

to mus

Aqua Fiesta Where: Pool side When: Friday noon Price: BD12 for adults/BD6 for kids under 11 years

338 Garden & Restaurant Garden Escape: 3-course lunch menu, from Saturday to Thursday, 12 to 3pm.

BD6++ BBQ Fridays: Enjoy the live BBQ station with favorites such as burgers, hot dogs, steaks and more, accompanied by special deals on selected drinks! From 12 to 4pm Mandaloun Nights. Welcome to the biggest Arabic themed party in the country, every last Wednesday of the month.

Featuring well known Lebanese singer Alphonse Bahri.

Chill Out Saturday Where: Waikiki When: 730pm onwards Price: BD9 net per person For bookings call, Tel. +973 1731 3333 esort &

Elite R

Spa

For bookings call, Tel. +973 3330 4030

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

Continue ...

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 117

gastro

Elite Seef Residence & Hotel Family Friday Brunch Where: The Oasis Pool Area.

When: Friday from 12 noon to 4pm Price: - Adults at BD10 per person net - Kids’ rate varies in height: Height of 1.2 to 1.5 meter: BD 5; Height of 1.5 meter and above: BD 10; Height of 1.2 meter and below: FREE FREE access to The Kids Club (arts & crafts, games, early learning activities) For bookings call, Tel. +973 1758 3388

InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Jazz Night with Wine & Cheese at Noor Lounge. Enjoy the two great culinary pleasures while listening to the smooth beats of live modern jazz music. Starting from BD 10 net per person, every Tuesday from 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm • New Italian Chef at Medzo, Andrea Chiaradia from Venice, Italy specialising in Mediterranean cuisine with fresh produce & serving fresh homemade pastas, daily except Saturdays • Noor Lounge Iced coffee & tea promotions. Starting from BD1.9++ • Sunday to Friday Medzo Business Lunch. 2-course menu & 1 soft beverage. BD 7.500++ from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm • Tuesday Legendz SteakHouse “Meat your match” with the 5-course steak dinner with unlimited selected wines. BD 22++ • Friday BBQ at Elements is BD 25 net inclusive of selected beverages & pool access For bookings call, Tel. +973 1722 7777

Enjoy the view while you dine at Sofitel

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa New Seafood Market Lunch is in Town From 12.30 to 3pm, from Thursday to Saturday.

Arabic Brunch Prices are set to BD 18 net per person inclusive of soft beverages/ BD 22 net per person inclusive of selected house beverages with timings from 12.30pm until 3.30pm For bookings call, Tel. +973 17636363

The Domain Bahrain • Dinner with Friends at Le Sauvage and Le Domain [34] on Sunday, Tuesday, Saturday. BD27++ per person • A Very Grown-up Brunch every Friday on Level 34 from 12pm to 4pm.

Prices start at BD 19++ • Figs & Olives breakfast daily. BD 12++ per person from 6.30 am to 10.00am

New Italian Chef at Medzo, Andrea Chiaradia

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

118 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

• High Tea Daily on Level 16. BD 8.5++ Deluxe High Tea; BD 15++ from 3.00pm to 6.00pm • Business Lunch from Sunday to Thursday at Figs & Olives for BD 9++ for two-courses, including a bottle of still or sparkling water.

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1600 0222

Sheraton Bahrain Chicken Promotion at An Nada Lounge from 1.00 pm to 1.00 am. Herbed crumbed chicken drumsticks BD3.5++ Mexican Chicken Tacos BD3.9++ Char-grilled chicken BD3.9++ Smokey BBQ Buffalo Chicken Wings BD3.9++ Chicken Lollipops BD4.5++ Rock Lobster Promotion at Soie Chinese Restaurant from Sunday to Friday, 7.00 pm to 11.30 pm. Beijing lobster on a bed of assorted greens BD15++ Spicy Szechwan lobster BD15.5++ Stir-fried lobster with broccoli & shitake BD15.5++Cantonese style grilled rock lobster BD18.5++ Business Lunch at Golestan. BD12 net per person For bookings call, Tel. +973 1753 3533

Sushi at The Domain Bahrain

Continue ...

gastro Tea Garden • Sparkling High Tea 12pm to 5pm with a selection of teas, cakes and more!

Ruka • Enjoy delicious Japanese delicacies daily; Lunch from 12.30pm to 3pm & Dinner from 7pm to 11.30pm For bookings call, Tel. +973 1711 1971

Dôme Café Dôme Café Bahrain has an interesting catering menu that you can order from.

Choose from a range of mouthwatering soups, salads, sandwiches, main course and desserts.

Be a Gastro Club Member at The Royal Golf Club

The Royal Golf Club Gastro Club Member Become a “Gastro Club” Member of the fabulous Royal Golf Club and receive a range of dining vouchers for use in Links, Prego and Café T, generous dining discounts, Members only access during special times of year and many more benefits. Gastro Club Membership costs just BD 60 per year.

Saturdays at Links For every adult main course ordered, a child aged 12 years or under may order a meal from the kid’s menu free. Noon to 3pm.

Sundays at Prego For every main course or pizza ordered, receive a 40 per cent discount off a second main course or pizza of equal or lesser value. After 6pm.

• Friday Flavours of Arabia 7pm to 11pm.

Adults BD12++/Kids BD6++ • Daily International Buffet & A la Carte; Breakfast- Adult BD10++, Kids BD5++ Lunch- Adult BD12++ Kids BD6++

Dôme Café has outlets in Juffair, Seef and Riffa.

Dôme Juffair: +973 1781 0180 Dôme Seef: +973 1758 1824 Dôme Riffa: +973 1700 2221 Dôme Catering

Rialto • Wednesday BBQ Night with live music at Rialto terrace including a beverage from 7pm to 11pm; Adults BD15++/ Kids BD 7++ • 8th May to 16th May Lobster Fiesta with live entertainment from 6pm to 1130pm; Rasoi • Sunday to Thursday Indian Business Lunch from 12.30 to 3pm ; BD6 NET Vegetarian/ BD7 NET Non Vegetarian • 22nd to 30th May; enjoy a Chaat Counter, Malt Beverage ( Beer ) and Curries from 7pm to 11.30pm; BD12 NET per adult

Mondays at Links For every main course ordered, receive a second main course of equal or lesser value free. 6pm to 8pm.

Tuesdays at Links Dine in on a main course and receive a 40 per cent discount off your beverage bill. 7pm to 10pm.

Wednesdays at Links Dine in on the signature “Steak Stone” and receive a 40 per cent discount off your steak. 7pm to 10pm.

For bookings call, Tel. +973 17 750777

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Lemon Tree • Thursday Sea Food Night from 7pm to 11pm. Adults BD12++/Kids BD6++ • Friday Brunch 12pm to 4pm. Adults BD15++/Kids BD7++

Ruka at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 119

nightlife

Up All Night

Enjoy nightlife at Bushido!

Bushido

Elite Grande Hotel

Elite Resort and Spa

Pink Friday Monthly Ladies Night on Friday 30th May from 9pm until late. Stand the chance to win a limited edition Emporio Armani gift and enjoy free drinks with live entertainment.

Julio’s/ Room service/ H2O/ Zodiac Lounge • Happy Hour Daily from 4pm to 8pm at 20 per cent discount on any alcoholic beverages

• Ladies Night daily except Thursday • Karaoke night every Saturday.

After Work Every day from 5 to 8pm. Buy One, Get One Free drinks promotion on a selection of cocktails &mocktails.

Zodiac Lounge • Every Monday. Bubbly night for ladies night from 8pm until 2am • Every Wednesday & Friday. Karaokee Night from 8pm until 2am • Every Saturday. Retro Night from 8pm until 2am

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1758 3555

Trader Vic’s Wahine Tuesday Ladies Night Promotion every Tuesday from 6pm to 10pm. Make time for your girlfriends and enjoy a relaxed catchup in the beautiful surroundings of Mai- Tai’s lagoon pagoda. Ladies receive free entry, drinks and a selection of complimentary Trader Vic’s Tid-Bits.

For bookings call, Tel +973 1758 6555

120 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

H2O • Every Saturday. Catch of the Day at BD10 net Inclusive of a shisha & soft drinks • Every Thursday Hot Grill night – Live Barbeque at BD10 net inclusive of a shisha & soft drinks.

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1756 5888

Shift 7

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1731 3333

Elite Crystal Hotel Klub 360 Finesse Nights every Sunday and Wednesday. One lucky winner wins a luxury prize every Sunday and Wednesday.

Finesse members – Ladies can apply for their finesse membership card (for Free) and receive the following benefits: 20 per cent discount on your bill any day of the week at KLUB 360, LC Lounge and Bora Bora pool side lounge.

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1736 0360

nightlife

InterContinental Regency Bahrain

The Domain Bahrain

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

DOWNTOWN • Daily Happy Hour 30 per cent discount on food & beverage! Daily, 4pm8pm • Sunday Jam Night with the resident band; receive a complimentary drink.

Winner receives a special prize! 9pm to 12am • Wednesday Ladies Night Ladies receive 3 selected beverages. 9pm to 12am

TXOKO • Cabin Crew Nights - Sunday & Friday.

Present your Cabin Crew ID and receive 50 per cent discount on beverages.

• Latin Monday. Enjoy 2 drinks for the price of 1 from 6pm until 8pm.

• Domanista! Wednesday. Ladies Night.

Receive a complimentary bottle of bubbly from 9pm until 11pm. The resident DJ will be spinning the latest hits all night long.

• Saturday Happy Hours. 50 per cent off selected beverages from 6pm to 9pm.

Special Ibrida Night • Every Friday in May enjoy the Battle of the DJs from 7pm to 10pm. Entry is FREE! • Thursday, 29th May watch out for the DJ from Mars from 9pm onwards; Gents BD15 & ladies BD5

ELEMENTS POOL & LOUNGE • Tuesday Challenge the Bartender Try 5 different shots created by the bartenders at BD 10++ from 6pm to 12am • Wednesday Russian Night Enjoy the selection of vodka with 50 per cent off.

6pm to 12am • Friday Elements Happy Hour 2 cocktails & 1 snack at BD 10++ from 6pm to 9pm Resident DJ Rafa Ristallo from Italy, performances from 9pm onwards, playing deep & tech house music For bookings call, Tel. +973 1722 7777

IMARI • Enjoy the best Japanese authentic maki rolls with stunning views at BD 14++ from 6pm to 9pm every Monday • Cabin Crew Nights - Wednesday & Thursday. Present your Cabin Crew ID and receive 50 per cent discount on beverages.

• Saturday -Aphrodisian Saturdays. Free bubbly from 6pm to 11pm.

• Saturday – Biru Garden Free flow of Kirin Draughts and red or white grapes including Chef Riichiro San’s favourite Izakaya style dishes at BHD 23++ or BHD 17++ including soft drinks. From 5pm to 9pm.

Redlions – sports bar • Wednesday Bankers Night from 730pm; bankers enjoy a special offer • Daily All the Sports 12pm to 4pm enjoy FA Cup Final , UEFA Championship Cup Final , French Open Tennis , Rugby League and Union, Diamond Leaque Athletics - Shanghai , F1 Monaco , England Sri Lanka Cricket Series, World Snooker Championship and more!

CIGAR LOUNGE: Save 20 per cent of your bill daily between 6pm to 9pm.

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1711 1971

For bookings call, Tel. +973 16 000 222/333

338 Garden & Restaurant

DJ Rafa Rista

Girls Gossip Nights every Tuesday & Wednesday. Ladies enjoy exclusive deals!

Unlimited cocktails, bubbly and wine from a selected list for only BD5++ from 8pm to 12am

llo

Sheraton Bahrain Social Hour at An Nada Lounge. Compare two 50 ml for BD2.5 net every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 6.00 pm to 7.00 pm

Happy hour every day from 4 to 7pm Live Music: Mondays: Brendan Lynch with the best of international songs Tuesdays: New Band, Highway Haze will play all-time favorites Wednesdays: Latin Soul, the oldest band in 338’s repertoire will entertain Thursdays: Enjoy jazz music with the Jazz Trio Fridays: New Band, African Tones will play Reggae, Jazz and R&B Saturdays: Enjoy blues music with the True Blues duo

Ladies Night at An Nada Lounge. Ladies can enjoy complimentary unlimited selected beverages every Monday and 3 free drinks every Thursday from 8.00 pm to 1.00 am For bookings call, Tel. +973 1753 3533

The Royal Golf Club Happy Hour Receive fantastic discounts off a wide range of selected beverages daily.

Regulars at Ibrida • Saturday 9pm onwards enjoy 50 per cent discount on all drinks for hotel and airline staff • Tuesday Ladies Night 9pm to 2am free selected beverages for ladies all night • Daily except Sundays from 9pm onwards enjoy music by the Overload Resident Band’s sound of the 80s and 90s • Daily Early Bird from 7pm to 10pm; Buy one and get one FREE

For bookings call, Tel. +973 3330 4030 Txoko at The Domain Bahrain

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 121

lifestyle

HOROSCOPES Gemini

21 May-21 June

You are especially magnetic this month, dear Gemini. Love and appreciation are easy to attract this month. It’s also a time when exciting professional opportunities could arise. Stimulating changes in friendship are on the horizon.

Cancer

22 June-22 July

Motivation to make money is strong this month, dear Cancer. You are also enjoying lively friendships. Many of you will achieve more recognition, a promotion, or a position of increased responsibility on the career.

Leo

23 July-21 August

Career and professional interests are strong this month, dear Leo. New ideas are abundant, and your energy levels run high. Friendships are especially rewarding this month.

Some of you will be meeting new romantic interests.

David Beckham

Virgo

22August21 September

Business relationships are strong this month, dear Virgo. A change of residence, a working partnership, an opportunity to work from home, or an alliance with an old family friend or co-worker could be in the offing.

Libra

22September22 October

May is a sociable month for you, dear Libra.

Restlessness with routine is sure to get you out and about. Financial matters begin to clear up mid-month. Some nagging work problems need attention.

Scorpio

23 October22 November

May is an excellent month for giving your close personal relationships the attention they deserve, dear Scorpio. Finances bring pleasant surprises this month but money could be spent as quickly as they are earned if you are not careful!

Sagittarius 23 November21 December

May is strong for social life, negotiations, and communications, dear Sagittarius. Some problems balancing career and family obligations are likely.

Your spirit for adventure runs high, yet you are especially busy with work obligations and health routines.

Sweeping millions off their feet both on and off the field, soccer heart throb, David Beckham celebrates his birthday on the 2nd of this month. Did you know his name was used in a movie that was released in 2003?

‘Bend It Like Beckham’ became a huge box office hit.

122 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Capricorn 22 December19 January

A mostly entertaining month is in store for you, dear Capricorn. The chance for creative and romantic new beginnings arrives. The urge to work is weaker than usual and finances are strong, particularly those related to the communications industry.

Aquarius

20 January18 February

Important group connections and friendships come along suddenly this month, dear Aquarius.

Financial concerns may challenge you.

Straightening out domestic problems will also be necessary. Energy runs high for romance.

Pisces

19 February20 March

Career opportunities are likely to arise this month, dear Pisces. Take some extra time to tend to projects that have been on hold will be fulfilling. Troublesome communications are likely to clear up and love opportunities increase.

Aries

21 March-19 April

Adventure, travel, and higher learning call to you, dear Aries. There may be unexpected events that free you from confining situations. Financial concerns lift by mid-month, when a new budget will be helpful. You are ready to pursue romance and take the lead.

Taurus

20 April-20 May

Mid-month forward is a feel-good time for you, dear Taurus, when you feel the need to make a fresh start. Communication problems can be a bit troublesome. Love ties are coming up for review. A surprising new friendship could develop.

listings

BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE

Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite

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

A Lounge 1771 0041 Adliya, 11am to 2am

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.

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 123

listings

BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE 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

124 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

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

Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite

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

Dome Café

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 Akbar 1729 6660 Ramada Palace Hotel 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12.30am

Choose from a range of mouthwatering soups, salads, sandwiches, main course and desserts.

Dôme Juffair: +973 1781 0180 Dôme Seef: +973 1758 1824 Dôme Riffa: +973 1700 2221

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

listings

BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE

Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite

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

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

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

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

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 125

listings

BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE 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

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

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

Carla’s 1769 7687 Cyprus Gardens, Sehla, 12pm to 12am Chakmagia 1755 8500 Dana Mall, 10am to 10pm

126 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Legendz Steakhouse 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel Open for lunch and dinner

L’lle 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa, 6pm to 11pm

Al Mukhayam Ramada Palace Hotel 8pm to 1am

Café Blanc 1710 0069 Al A’ali Complex, 8am to 12am

Klouds 1736 0000 The K Hotel, 6.30am to 2am

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

Butcher’s Shop & Grill 1717 2323 Bahrain City Centre, 12pm to 11pm

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

Brazil 1782 6686 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6pm 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

Steak Houses

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

Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite

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.

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.

Herbal Massage Center, Riffa 1749 1958

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

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

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

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.

1729 3109

Corniche next to Marina Club One hour marine mammal show.

Funland

1729 2313

Corniche next to Marina Club Bowling and Ice Skating everyday.

Hawar Island

1731 1770 Day trips to Hawar Island, boats depart from Ad Dur Jetty at 10am daily

Kid’s Kingdom

Music Lessons Bahrain Music Institute Kindermusik Bahrain Room to Rock

1783 6116

Adhari Park

Dolphin Park

Kids Gyms/Gymnastics My Gym, www.my-gym.com EZ Fit World Beat Fitness Centre Chaoss

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 Mini Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (4 to 7 year olds) Musical Babies, Nadeen School 1772 8886 My Gym, Seef District 1756 6566 Rhymes & Chimes, Dilmun Club 3929 6848 Soft Play, Off Budaiya Highway 3965 3678 Sticky Fingers 3961 8340 Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (7 to 11 year olds) Tots & Toddlers Group, 1772 8245 The British Club Wriggly Readers, British School 3912 9585 (for pre-schoolers) www.mumsinbahrain.net

Over 120 different games and attractions and Bahrain’s only indoor Roller Blade Arena.

Playland 1774 2266/1762 0999 Above Fuddruckers in Adliya An indoor centre full of games.

Each ride costs 100 fils. Tokens available.

Soft Play

3965 3678

Future Shape Dance Studio, Garden City Every Monday and Wednesday from 9.30am to 11.30am Children under the age of six months attend for free. www.softplaybahrain.com

Studio Ceramics 1759 9026 Budaiya Highway Pottery painting and more.

Open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday, or by appointment. Birthday parties and private group bookings possible.

Water Garden Salmaniya 1726 2034 Near Dairy Queen roundabout A semi-filled lake with paddleboats and birds.

School & Nurseries Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain 1717 3000 Bahrain City Centre Opening Hours: Saturday to Tuesday: 11am to 8pm Wednesday: 11am to 10pm (Ladies Night 5pm to 10pm) Thursday and Friday: 11am to 9 PM

Things to know The Tourist Department (Tel. 1721 1717) is located in the gate to Manama’s souq, Bab al-Bahrain, on the ground floor next to the tourist shop, Times: 8am to 12 and 4.30pm to 6pm, closed on Friday.

Currency The Bahrain Dinar (BD) is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of 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.

May 2014 | Bahrain Confidential | 127

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 Avis Rent A Car

Tel. 1753 4100 Tel. 1723 1156 Tel. 1771 3181 Tel. 1756 9191

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

128 | Bahrain Confidential | May 2014

Lebanon 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

1778 6994 1756 4551 1774 0566 1759 1568 1729 3663 1724 4113 1727 6099 1725 0990 1753 6709 1772 2922 1772 5222 1753 7722 1753 1166 1772 2484 1729 2578 1727 4142 1771 4149 1753 3448 1771 0333 1757 4100 1731 1676 1724 2700

Flight Information Airline offices are normally open from 8am to 12.30pm and from 3pm to around 5pm, Saturday till Wednesday.

Flight Info 1733 9339 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 1774 1444

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 Islamic Enlightenment Society 1772 0053 Lions Club of Bahrain 3908 0097 Manama Rotary Club 3939 4522 Migrant Workers Protection Society 3946 5378 Overseas Workers Welfare Admin.

1721 3825 Palm Association 1779 0826/3964 3211 Riffa Cultural and Charity Society 1777 5444 Think Pink 3907 6717 BSPCA 1759 1231/1759 3479

Gallery/Crafts Al Riwaq Art Space 1771 7441 Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre 1761 1900 Art Lounge 1758 0522 Traditional crafts including palm weaving, pottery and woodwork.

Bahrain Arts Society 1759 0551 Thursdays drawing and painting for Children, 18 hours @ BD25, 10am to 12pm Saturdays and Mondays drawing and Painting for adults, 18 hours @ BD30, 3pm to 7pm.

Bahrain Pottery Society 1778 6898 Clay pottery, ceramic and painting lessons - Saturdays and Mondays, 5pm.

Crafts Centre Gallery and Workshop 1756 8032 Arabic calligraphy Caravan Galleries 3996 5853 Kerala Arts and Cultural Association 3963 9319 The Studio

3975 4863 Pottery painting and more for adults and children, open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday or by appointment.

Birthday parties and private group bookings possible.

Shaikh Ibrahim Cultural 3940 2302/1732 2549 and Research Centre Studio Ceramics 1759 9026

“Help” 24-Hour Helpline for Distressed Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous

3987 3357 1753 0020 1753 3558

Bahrain Bridge Club Bahrain Bridge Committee

Darts Balouch Club Sri Lanka Club

151 181 191 100 140

Bahrain Chess Federation

1729 2231 1729 7878

1725 2133

Photography Awali Photo Society Bahrain Arts Society

1724 2641 1727 1157

Speech & Drama Bahrain Cinema Club Dilmun Amateur Dramatics Society Folk Poetry Society Manama Theatre Club Manama Toastmasters Club

1772 5959 1769 0926 1776 1000 1777 6489 3965 5676

Ladies Clubs American Association of Bahrain 1756 4170 American Women’s Association 1775 6075 Australian Association of Bahrain 3910 1348 Awali Ladies Association 1767 8947 Bahrain Business Women’s Society 1772 1188 Bahrain Garden Club 1772 7625 Bahrain Women Society 1782 6777 Bahrain Young Ladies Society 1727 3508 BYLS-Toastmasters Club 1762 6237 Get together for Ladies 3917 4247/3902 7892 Indian Ladies Association 3980 5372 International Ladies Group 1772 9128 Madinat Hamad Women Society 3964 3396 Contact person Amal 3987 8758 Pakistani Women’s Association 1771 0944 Second Sunday Newcomers 3927 0413/3641 1368

Language Schools Al Quran Translation 1764 5156 Bait Al Taleem 1764 3199 Berlitz 1782 7847 British Council 1726 1555 Carousel 3967 3635 Lingua English Saturdays. Mondays and Wednesdays. English Language Classes, 4.30pm to 6pm, 4pm to 5.30pm.

English Language Centre 1770 0040 Lingo - Ease Language Centre Budaiya Highway 1759 0895

Social Clubs Alliance Française 1768 3295 Assamese Community 3909 1959 Awali Caledonian Society 3636 6458 Bahrain Caledonian Society 3944 0658 Bahrain Hash House Harriers 1786 2620 Bahrain Irish Society info@bahrainirishsociety.com Bahrain Kannada Sangha 1727 1257 Bahrain Round Table 3960 8568 Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 Bahrain Welsh Society 1772 7127 Balouch Club 1729 2231 British Club 1772 8245 ext. 32 Bhatia Mitra Mandal 3960 1789 Country Club 1759 3593 Dilmun Club 1769 0926 Filipino Club 1726 2143 Indian Club 1725 3157 Karnataka Social Club 1725 4257 Pakistan Club 1725 8520 Pakistan Association 3941 5200 Royal Society of St. George 3972 6329 Saar Cultural & Sports Club 1779 0335 Shree Nayrana Cultural Society 1725 5517 Shri Gujarati Samaj 3962 4285 Sri Lanka Club 1727 6134 Wisdom Home Society 1772 7575

Wellbeing 3960 7219 3968 7190

Chess

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.

Bridge

Hospitals & Clinics Emergency American Mission Hospital (AMH) Saar Medical & Dental Clinic (AMH) Bahrain Specialist Hospital Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital Salmaniya Hospital Gulf Dental Speciality 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

1776 4468 3966 7751

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