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Flawless
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Celebrity
The Girl With
Velvet Eyes ...
A
weight, for losing it, for alcoholism, drug dependency, and detoxification, as well as - throughout her life - a succession of often life-threatening ailments. Ulcers, amoebic dysentery, bursitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, brain tumours - resulting in over 30 operations. She had them all and survived, every time - until now. To her credit, she was a tireless fundraiser on behalf of AIDS and cancer research and a generous supporter of Jewish and Israeli causes following her conversion from Christian Science to Judaism, the religion of her third husband, Mike Todd. This resulted in her films being banned in many Arab countries. Marrying (and getting divorced) became almost a second career, and became her principal claim to fame. She was still almost a child when she married Conrad (Nicky) Hilton, heir to the hotel fortune, in 1951. It was publicised as a marriage made in heaven but lasted only a few months. Subsequent evidence suggests that he beat her even on their honeymoon. Her second marriage, in 1952, was to the debonair English actor Michael Wilding, then 40 years old and twice her age. This lasted five years and was followed immediately by a brief marriage to the movie mogul Mike Todd, who was killed in a plane crash in 1958; contracted as she was to the studio, she was allowed a week off and then compelled to finish filming ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof’. The singer Eddie Fisher had been best man at her wedding to Todd and rushed to console her in her grief. The following year they married, earning Elizabeth Taylor a reputation in some quarters as a home-wrecker, since Fisher had been married through much of this period to Debbie Reynolds. Fisher lasted no longer than his predecessors. In a much-reported affair during the making of ‘Cleopatra’ in 1963, she left him for her co-star Richard Burton, who became the most durable of all her husbands. When they were married, they made plans
woman of exceptional physical beauty and dazzling violet eyes, ‘Lizzy’ grew into the most photographed Hollywood film star of all with her career being a long and many-stranded one. Starting as a child star she shared the rare distinction of enjoying even greater fame as an adult. Her affair with, and subsequent marriage to, Richard Burton catapulted her into world headlines and gave her diminishing popularity a boost just when it was needed. In later life she moved into television and cameo roles, barely needing to act. Her mere presence at a party or at one of her multiple weddings were sufficient to command attention. She was renowned for gaining
Elizabeth Taylor
10 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
The highly renowned and much aspired Dame Elizabeth Taylor, died last month aged 79 due to congestive heart failure, a condition she had suffered from for years. The actress made more than 50 films, won two Oscars, was a grandmother at 39 and was married eight times to seven men.
Elizabeth Taylor in Cleopatra
“As her death comes 26 years after that of the Welsh actor, whom she married twice; his family have said they will honour his agreement and allow her to be buried in the family grave.” to be buried together at the cemetery in south Wales. As her death comes 26 years after that of the Welsh actor, whom she married twice; his family have said they will honour his agreement and allow her to be buried in the family grave. Richard Burton’s niece, Sian Owen has said her family would still honour Taylor and Burton’s original plans. “If she has stipulated in her will that that’s what she wants then, of course, we will be 100 per cent behind her”
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Bahrain-Japan Cultural Exchange Society
The organisers of Japanese events and art and culture lovers recently held a meeting at Fuji Sushi Bar, Sheza Tower Hotel; aimed at forming the ‘Bahrain-Japan Cultural Exchange Society’.
Omar Abdulaziz, Ahmed Al-Kooheji, Samar Al Meer, Shaikh Abduljabar, Baraa Abdulla and Ahmed Zayani
KFH-Bahrain Inaugurates Data Centre
Kuwait Finance House-Bahrain’s (KFH-Bahrain) Managing Director and CEO, Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat, officially opened a new state-of-theart Data Centre in Bahrain.
Centre: Mr Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat, Executive Management team of the Bank, dignitaries and external consultants
Diyar Al Muharraq to Sponsor Tafaol Education Centre
Diyar Al Muharraq is sponsoring the Particular Education Service Centre for children suffering from mental disabilities and diseases (Tafaol).
Mr Aaref Hejres, CEO of Diyar Al Muharraq hand over a cheque in support of the centre to Mr Khalid Al Amer
100 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Seef Mall Expands Activities at Kids Zone
Seef Mall expanded the activities available to shoppers at the Kids Zone last month. The initiative comes in response to the success of the initiative which launched in November of 2010.
Children enjoying the activities on offer at Seef Kids Zone
Society Louise Birthday Celebration
Louise O’Loan Birthday Celebration at their residence in Barbar, 10th March
Sarah, Jill, Samantha, Joe, Louise, Loay, Christine and Tracy
Omar, Louise, Hamza, Louise and John
Terry, Louise and Jim
Paula, Misuel and Tomas
Emiile, Sophie, Nick, Terry, Louise and Lian
Mark, Nerma and Tim
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 101
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Batelco is Golden Sponsor of University of Bahrain Career Day
Batelco was one of the major sponsors of the UoB (University of Bahrain) Career Day which took place at the university’s Sakhir campus from 21st to 23rd March. This is the 12th year that Batelco will participate in the event and the Company’s eighth year as the event’s main sponsor.
Batelco General Manager Human Resources Bahrain Suhaila Alnowakhda presented the sponsorship cheque to UoB Vice President for Community Service and Alumni Affairs Prof. Dr Ali Mansour Al Shehab, at a presentation held at Batelco Hamala Headquarters
Tony the Dogfather
Tony accepting a check from the Manama Singers and the donation drop set up by the Irish Society at the Rugby Club.
Irish Society
MWPS Volunteers Meet with new Indian Ambassador and First Secretary
MWPS Volunteers met with the new Indian Ambassador, Mr Mohan Kumar and First Secretary, Mr Ajay Kumar at the Indian Embassy last February.
Alfredo D’Souza, Vice Chairman; Ajay Kumar, First Secretary, Indian Embassy; Mona Almoayyed, Chairperson - MWPS; Mohan Kumar - Indian Ambassador; Charanath Shivakumar - Head of Safety and Welfare Committee, MWPS and Noora Feleyfel - Head of Action Committee, MWPS
102 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Tony Accepting Check
Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric, the global specialist in energy management, honoured with the Best Electricity Project of the Year Award at the Buildinfra Awards 2011, an integral part of the Saudi Arabian Building and Infrastructure Summit in Riyadh.
Christophe Campagne, Country President of Schneider Electric Saudi Arabia receiving the Award from His Excellency Abdul Rahman Al Jeraisy Al Otaiba, Chairman of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Winners!!! We Love
Society
Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Competitions
Claiming prize for Matt Broughton
Here are last month’s winners in our Revlon and Dermaglow Competitions: Dermaglow Representative Vinoo Varghese with winners
Rabia Butt
Anscily Ignatious
Mariam Marhoon
Alicia Connolly
Zeina Ahmed
Josephine Sy with family
Revlon Winners
Dermaglow Winners
BBK’s Youth Sports Program
BBK took pride in sponsoring its annual Junior Open Tennis Championship at the Bahrain Tennis Club in Juffair on 7th March. BBK continues its community support towards humanitarian, educational, cultural, social, health and sport initiatives.
Bank’s Chief Executive, Mr. A.Karim Bucheery and Mr. Khamis Al Mughla, Chairman of the Bahrain Tennis Club
BBK officials and Bahrain Tennis Club officers
Citibank Wins Top Awards
The Islamic Finance News Deals of the Year 2010 have recently been announced with Citi winning in several categories: Deal of the Year; Sukuk Deal of the Year; Turkey Deal of the Year; and Most Innovative Deal of the Year.
Issuers, Bankers and Joint-Lead Arrangers Receiving The Islamic Finance News Deals of the Year 2010 Awards for Deal of the Year; Sukuk Deal of the Year; Turkey Deal of the Year; and Most Innovative Deal of the Year.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 103
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Ensures Employee Fitness
Committed to ensuring employees’ health care plus a sustainable and healthy environment, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain organised a one day free medical check up for its employees.
Employees pose before getting checked by the nurses from Bahrain Specialist Hospital
First Billiard Competition for The K Hotel employees
The management of the newest hotel in Juffair, The K Hotel Bahrain hosted the first billiards competition for its employees as part of their Staff Welfare programme for 2011.
Mr Neman Abdallah, The K Hotel General Manager with employees
Mr Hamad Saqer, Human Resources Manager and the winner Ronnel Cruz
Azadea Group
Azadea Group held its basketball, mini football, and ping-pong activities at Ahli Club Muharraq last 27th February.
Ghassan, Cesar, Bahaa and Pielle
Shadi, Hussain, Hassan, Salman and Ali (F) Hani, Mohammed And Fadi
104 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Shadi, Hussain, Hassan, Salman and Ali (F) Hani, Mohammed And Fadi
Society NYIT
26th February - New York Institute of Technology Event – Gilgamesh Movie Pearl Showing at Saar Cinema Complex, Saar.
Zeeshan, Rayan, Ali, Hamad, Hussain, Turaif and Aws
Nawal, Fatima, Fowzia and Mohammed
4 Un
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Sarah, Hessa, Fatima, Zeeshan, Ahmed, Rayan and Hamad
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'UIDE TO !RABIAN LIFE LUXURY AND FA
The NEW Porsche Cayenne - Tried & Tested!
Khalid, Mohammed, IT, Turaif and Hussain
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Seef Mall “Seef Express” Trains
23 March – Seef Express Train, Launching at Seef Mall. Seef Mall – Bahrain‘s original family mall – would like to invite all media to come and experience a fun train ride around the mall and to be the first to enjoy a new level of entertainment in shopping.
Salman and Abeer
Mayuk, Mohammed, Fatima, Ali, Sherif and Hassan
Eman and Sherif
Ghada and Omar
Dr Ebrahim Yacoob, Saif, Remedoos Yacoob
Ksenia and Sami
Max and Virginia
Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa
The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa held its Annual General Board Meeting at the hotel’s Grand Ambassador Suite last 24th March.
A. Rahman Morshed, Nabeel Al Saeed, Yousef Dekheel, Abdul Latif Al Zayani, Nader Rahimi and Muath Gaffar.
Rotary Club of Sulmaniya
The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya held an event at Bushido Restaurant in Seef on 2nd March.
Ismail, Emad, Khalil and Salwan
Steve, Peter, Fareeda Almoayyed, Rodolphe Melki, Hisham Al Baradi and Samiya
106 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Waleed Kanoo and Mohammed Al Khaja
Hisham Al Baradi and Abdulrahman Jaffer
Business
Business in Brief
Mr Abdul Razak Jawahery, Executive Manager
Menatelecom
Syed Junaid Kiosk at Bahrain Mall
Junaid for Perfumes Expands Junaid for Perfumes’ plans for expansion were recently realised with the latest launch of their new kiosk, located on the ground floor of Bahrain Mall. The kiosk is uniquely designed on a high platform, incorporating the signature look of the Junaid outlets that reflects the essence of the brand. Featuring an assortment of perfumes from the Junaid for Perfumes popular variety, the new kiosk is one of the epicenters for perfume purchases by its customers.
Menatelecom, an investment subsidiary of Kuwait Finance House - Bahrain (KFH-Bahrain) and one of the most advanced internet service providers in the region, has announced that its subscriber base has exceeded 60,000 customers. Menatelecom’s WiMAX 16e network has recently witnessed a major network expansion to 100,000 subscription capacity, enabling it to launch the most powerful internet packages in the kingdom with a reliable service and speeds of up to 18 mb wireless, nationwide.
Kuwait Finance House (KFH) Staff Gathering for ‘One Bahrain’ Kuwait Finance House – Bahrain (KFH-Bahrain) held a special lunch gathering at the Gulf International Convention Centre where more than 600 employees attended from the Bank and its subsidiaries including Durrat Al Bahrain, Diyar Al Muharraq, Menatelecom, Al Enma House, Baytik Industrial Investments, Royal Arabian, Genesis and Miracle Graphics. The gathering was appropriately themed ‘One Heart for Bahrain’. Mr Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat, the Managing Director and CEO of KFH-Bahrain, welcomed the staff with an opening speech, commenting that “The Kingdom of Bahrain during the past few weeks has witnessed exceptional circumstances and challenging times for us all, whether for individuals, businesses or financial institutions.”
KFH Staff Gathering
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 107
Cars
A Concept To Conceptualise
Concept cars are not something new, fact! Read about the newest addition to Audi’s collection.
C
oncept cars never go into production directly; in modern times all have to undergo many changes before the design is finalised for the sake of practicality, safety and cost. A production-intent vehicle, as opposed to a concept vehicle, serves this purpose and has resulted in many ‘concept cars’ being a prototype per se. Following traditions, the concept car is often radical in engine or design. Car manufacturers use non-traditional, exotic, or expensive materials, ranging from paper to carbon fibre to refined alloys to compete against rivals to ensure they have the original concept. Others have unique layouts, such as gullwing doors, three or six (or more) wheels, or special abilities not usually found on cars. Because of these often impractical or unprofitable leanings, many concept cars never get past scale models, or even drawings. Other more traditional concepts can be developed into fully drivable vehicles with a working drivetrain and accessories. The state of most concept cars lies somewhere in between and does not represent the final product.
The German car manufacturing giant Audi has been developing concept cars for many years now and has shown several concept cars as of March 2010, each with different levels of size and performance. The original e-tron concept shown at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show was based on the platform of the R8 and has been scheduled for limited production and the conceptual factor is that power is provided
and the car is powered through the front wheels, always using electric power. Last month, Audi kicked off the 81st International Geneva Motor Show with the star being the Audi A3 concept car - the four-seat notchback sedan integrates the full breadth of the brand’s technological expertise - from the improved MMI operating system, to the high-tech infotainment system, to the drivetrain. A five-cylinder turbo developing 408 hp, a seven-speed S tronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive ensures thrilling dynamics along with high fuel efficiency. Among the technological highlights is the large rotary pushbutton of the MMI that now includes the touch pad, MMI touch, which makes the already smooth operation even more intuitive and will soon be introduced in series production at Audi. Holders for iPads are installed on the back of the front seat backrests. The door handles with their brushed-aluminum clasps are recessed flush with the door. When the driver touches them, they power-extend
“Among the technological highlights is the large rotary pushbutton of the MMI that now includes the touch pad, MMI touch.”
108 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
by electric motors at all four wheels. The second concept was shown at the 2010 Detroit Motor Show and power was the main point of focus. The Audi A1 e-tron concept, based on the Audi A1 production model, is a hybrid vehicle with a range extending Wankel rotary engine to provide power after the initial charge of the battery is depleted. It is the only concept of the three to have range extending capability
The Audi Centre is located in Sitra contact Tel. +973 1745 9933.
UAE Dubai: Dubai Mall, Galeries Lafayette, Sacoche - Ibn Battuta, Festival City Abu Dhabi: Rodeo Drive- Khalifa St., Sacoche – Marina Mall Sharjah: Sacoche - Sahara Centre, Mega Mall KSA Jeddah: AL RUBAIYAT - Khayyat Centre, Le Chateau Mall Riyadh: AL RUBAIYAT - Kingdom Centre, Harvey Nichols - Faisaliyah Centre Al Khobar: AL RUBAIYAT - Al Qosaibi Mall KUWAIT Kuwait City: Salhiya Complex The Avenues Mall QATAR Doha: Emporium Mall, The Pearl, ZAI Boutique - Mercedes Roundabout
LEBANON Beirut: Downtown - Ave. Foch, St. Jounieh - Kaslik St. BAHRAIN Manama: Moda Mall EGYPT Cairo: Safi Boutique First Mall - Giza St. SYRIA Damascus: The Khan www.kenzo.com
Cars
One Extreme to Another ...
T
After debuting the GranCabrio at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Maserati used the 2011 Geneva Motor Show to introduce the GranCabrio Sport ....
he blacked-out tailpipes and wheels draw attention to the idea that this thing is meant for more than just posing. Inside, Maserati hammer home the car’s purpose even harder, with carbon fibre dashboard trim and shifter paddles. Those entire touches do a good job making this car look fast, but Maserati made sure the car goes as well as it looks. To that end, they upgraded the standard car’s six-speed paddle-shifted transmission for even quicker gear changes. The ZF-sourced gearbox gets spun by a 450-horsepower version of Maserati’s top-dog 4.7-liter V8. Maserati has also firmed up the car’s skyhood active suspension and thrown in bigger brakes to keep everything from going awry. Conceived to give the GranCabrio a harder-edged model to sit alongside the GranTurismo S and the Quattroporte Sport GT S, the GranCabrio Sport uses
a more powerful and fuel-efficient version of Maserati’s all-alloy 4.7-litre V8. This configuration of the naturally aspirated engine produces 450 horsepower a GranCabrio Sport is 178 mph and completes standard the 0-60 mph test in 5.2 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission includes the super-fast MC Auto Shift software and has been developed
is characterised by a more-pronounced look. It begins with the GranCabrio’s distinctive nose with a black grille and a Trident with red accents. The GranCabrio Sport also debuts a new body colour for Maserati: Rosso Trionfale, inspired by the red national colours used on 1950s racing Maseratis - in 1957, Juan Manuel Fangio won his fifth F1 World Title at the wheel of a red Maserati 250F. Maserati says that the six-speed transmission has “super-fast” MC Auto Shift software and that it has been developed for the GranCabrio Sport, directly from the Quattroporte Sport GT S. The Skyhook active suspension system has been revised with “sportier” tuning, says Maserati, and the car now has grooved and drilled dual-cast brake discs. The GranCabrio Sport will be on sale in Summer 2011
“This configuration of the naturally aspirated engine produces 450horsepower a GranCabrio Sport is 178 mph and completes standard the 0-60 mph test in 5.2 seconds.”
110 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
for the GranCabrio Sport directly from the transmission in the Quattroporte Sport GT S. Like in the Quattroporte Sport GT S, the MC Auto Shift gives the driver even greater engagement by further improving gearshift response, and introducing a digital in-dash display to indicate the ideal gearshift timing. Visually, the GranCabrio Sport
For more information visit www.euromotors.com.bh or contact Tel. +973 17 750 750.
Cars
The New Mercedes C-Class The new C-Class will be coming to showrooms in Bahrain this spring with a comprehensive modernisation.
T
he front and rear sections of the bestselling model, the C-Class, have a more striking design - together with the optional, highresolution colour display in the instrument cluster, the new dashboard with its elegant, grained surface and prominent decorative trim emphasises the premium character of the interior. It’s a classic mild Mercedes facelift, with a cosmetic polish-up and a raft of more detailed engineering changes. It looks like a subtle upgrade, but Mercedes says more than 2000 new components are fitted. Both the saloon and estate are face lifted; the new C-class Coupe arrives later next spring. In addition to the standard appointments - which now include a leather steering wheel - the two designs and equipment lines – ‘Elegance’ and ‘Avantgarde’, are the basis for the individualisation programme of the C-Class, with the two lines now even more readily distinguishable from each other. The front bumper has more expressive
and dynamic contours, the front section being brought closer to the brand’s new design idiom. This starts with a more prominent radiator grille surround. The central air intake opens out upwards in a V-shape, forming a visual base unit for the radiator grille. Pronounced side sections extend from the sporty v-shape at the centre of the bumper. Continuing beneath the
radiator grille emphasises the v-shape of the front section more heavily than before. In conjunction with the newly designed headlamps, this gives the front section a more resolute impression. The main focus of the design work in the interior was on restyling the dashboard with its integrated screen and new surface grain. The touch surfaces of the controls are now also more finely detailed and galvanised. A stepped extension to the instrument cluster now also accommodates the central display. The instrument cluster and a discreet light-catching contour continue into the front passenger side. The central, trapezoidal air vents and the round vents on the outside are highlighted in detail by galvanised trim. A reduction of up to 31 per cent has been achieved in fuel consumption. All the rear-wheel drive C-Class models are equipped with the ECO start/stop function as standard, with these models to be introduced to the Middle East at a later date. All the engine variants are now classed as BlueEFFICIENCY units, showing that they are particularly efficient and environmentally compatible in their use of fuel. In future, all automatic versions will feature the further-developed 7GTRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission. In addition, the overall ratio of all new powertrain variants has been optimised for fuel economy
“The saloon now has a new aluminium bonnet, which contributes to weight reduction and therefore fuel efficiency.”
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (Front)
headlamps, these sections blend into the feature lines along the vehicle flanks, linking the front section with the sides. The side air inlets in the bumper are positioned low down, giving the car a more roadhugging appearance. The saloon now has a new aluminium bonnet, which contributes to weight reduction and therefore fuel efficiency. Its contour in the area of the headlamps and
For more information please visit www.alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (Interior)
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 111
Pets
Home! Looking for a
Snow
Blanca
Blackie
Linda
Teena
Smudgie
At Bahrain Confidential we try our best to reunite lost animals with their families or find new homes for abandoned pets.
Attention!
BSPCA Animals
The BSPCA is now enforcing a policy of neutering all male dogs and cats. The BSPCA’s policy also ensures that all female dogs and cats that are adopted MUST be neutered, the cost of which is incorporated into their pricing structure.
Will
Brown Sugar
Interested in adopting?
Visit the BSPCA in Saar, near St Christopher’s School or see www.bspca.org for directions. Open for viewings Monday to Saturday, 9am to 1pm. Tel. +973 1759 1231.
From Tony ‘The Dogfather’
Mary
Interested in adopting?
Casper
Call Tony ‘The Dogfather’ Waters on Tel. +973 3962 9889 or visit www.dogfatherbahrain.com
112 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Do you have animal concerns? Need a vet? Call Dr Nonie Coutts on Tel. +973 1724 5515.
Butterscotch
Pets
Don’t Just Leave Your
Pets! In light of the country’s current situation, it has been no surprise to see residents pick up and leave in a hurry, however it has been a definite disappointment to see them leave behind their household pets with limited resources and in some cases no resources. I have had several cats dumped outside my rescue centre, they are well-fed and some still have collars on, clearly housecats. I also recently rescued a beautiful little dog that had been dumped in someone’s garden,” says animal rescuer Tony the Dogfather. Even though Tony has had to limit his intake of rescued animals due to his rescue centre being forced to relocate, he has still taken in the abandoned pets. “Residents of my compound have been forced to leave due to it being bought out. I now have 140 cats and 100 dogs, and am having to turn away about ten animals a week because of this problem.” Tony does offer house-sitting, but encourages people to use boarding kennels due to his limited space. He also needs donations to support the rescued animals which can come in the form of food, supplies and most importantly adoption or sponsorship. “I am happy to report that we have not received a huge amount of abandoned pets, we expected to see a lot more,” says fund raising coordinator of the BSPCA, Joyce Hughes. “We did receive a lovely old golden retriever and a schitzu together, which had been found roaming outside a ladies house. We found a home for the schitzu straight away and the lady who brought the retriever to us couldn’t sleep for worrying about her ... so she came in
and adopted her! ” Joyce explained that the BSPCA does not offer boarding, and that owners were notified by management that by leaving pets there, they may be gone upon return as the centre is for ‘abandoned’ animals. “Of course we do not turn any animal away, but the owner has to be told that every animal without exception comes to us as a ‘homelesss’ animal and if suitable is put up for adoption. Of course if the
Boarding is still available at Delmon Kennels. “Our kennels are starting to free up now that people are returning to the island,” said owner of Delmon Kennels Pauline Richards. “We do offer pet passport services, these are important especially for Europe as pets are not allowed in without one. What we suggest is emailing us a copy of your pets’ latest vaccinations and the destination you wish to ship to for advice.” If there are no options but to leave your pets at home, it is advised to stock up on supplies before leaving. “If you leave your pets with housemaids or friends, please make sure that they have a list of emergency numbers, vets and where you will be, said Joyce from the BSPCA. “Also please leave an adequate amount of pet supplies as carers may not be able to get around due to the curfew.”
“It has been a definite disappointment to see them leave behind their household pets with limited resources and in some cases no resources.” animal is still with us upon their return we would be overjoyed to reunite them.” Pet owners have several options before abandonment including boarding and shipping and there are several places in Bahrain that offer pet passport services including Dr Nonie Coutts Veterinary Clinic and the Delmon Boarding Kennels. “Currently our boarding kennels are full but we do help to set up pet passports. We also provide the required vaccinations and micro chips needed for the passport,” said a staff member at Nonie Coutts.
For more information please contact: Delmon Kennels: Tel. +973 1769 4066 or +973 3971 7609/3972 9868. Email: info@delmonkennels.com Dr Nonie Coutts: Tel. +973 1724 5515 (Manama) or +973 1769 1397 (Saar). Tony the Dogfather: www.dogfathebahrain.com BSPCA: Tel. +973 1759 1231 or email: bspca@batelco.com.bh
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 113
Gastro
Gastro
Wednesdays
Calendar
The latest and tastiest places to go!
‘A Taste of Italy Night’ at Silk’s (Mövenpick) Fresh pasta and aromatic pizza baked in the oven for BD12.500 and BD18.200 inclusive of drinks. From 7pm to 11pm. Prime Rib Night at Links Restaurant and Lounge (Royal Golf Club) Visitors pay BD12 and club members pay BD10.8. From 6pm. Business Lunch at Waves Seafood Restaurant, (Crowne Plaza) From 12pm to 4pm. BD8.5++ (3 courses); BD6.950++ (2 courses). The Meat Room at La Mosaique (Crowne Plaza) Serving Angus certified beef, fresh and succulent – choose any cut you like – and have it cooked to perfection on the grill in front of you. BBQ Night at Casa Bar (Mercure Hotel) Tel. +973 1758 4400
Thursdays
K Hotel restaurant
Sizzling Steak Night at Silk’s (Mövenpick) From BD18.2++ Seafood Night at La Mosaique (Crowne Plaza) BD16++ all you can eat! From 7pm. Business Lunch at Waves Seafood Restaurant, (Crowne Plaza) From 12pm to 4pm. BD8.5++ (3 courses); BD6.950++ (2 courses). Seafood Night at Waves (Crowne Plaza) Enjoy all you can eat fresh seafood and salad starters cooked live by the chef according to your taste. BD16++ Arabian Night at Mercure Hotel. Enjoy live belly dancing and Arabic music along with dinner and soft beverages for BD12+
Fridays
The Confidential gastro guide reveals the best places to eat every month
Sundays
Churrasco Night at Silk’s, (Mövenpick) Brazilian style of dining with a focus on meat, including Caiphirinia drinks from 7pm to 11pm at BD16.9++ Sunday Roast and Quiz Night at JJ’s. From 6pm till 10pm, ladies enjoy unlimited beverages for just BD4. Business Lunch at Waves Seafood Restaurant, (Crowne Plaza) From 12pm to 4pm. BD8.5++ (3 courses); BD6.950++ (2 courses). The Meat Room at La Mosaique (Crowne Plaza) Serving Angus certified beef, fresh and succulent –choose any cut you like and have it cooked to perfection on the grill in front of you.
Mondays
Seafood Night at Silk’s (Mövenpick) Prices starting at BD16.9++; BD22++ inclusive of unlimited beverages. From 7pm to 11pm. Sushi Night at Cocoon Lounge. Unwind and relax in the chilled surroundings of Cocoon Lounge whilst sampling one of eight fresh, sumptuous platters of sushi plus unlimited selected beverages. From 7pm to 11pm at BD12 per person.
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Business Lunch at Waves Seafood Restaurant, (Crowne Plaza) From 12pm to 4pm. BD8.5++ (3 courses); BD6.950++ (2 courses). The Meat Room at La Mosaique (Crowne Plaza) Serving Angus certified beef, fresh and succulent –choose any cut you like and have it cooked to perfection on the grill in front of you.
Tuesdays
Seafood Night at La Mosaique (Crowne Plaza) BD16++ all you can eat! From 7pm. Business Lunch at Waves Seafood Restaurant, (Crowne Plaza) From 12pm to 4pm. BD8.5++ (3 courses); BD6.950++ (2 courses). Seafood Night at Waves (Crowne Plaza) Enjoy all you can eat fresh seafood and salad starters cooked live by the chef according to your taste. BD16++
Carvery Feast at Links Restaurant and Lounge (Royal Golf Club). Enjoy a carvery buffet with all the trimmings for BD13 (club members); BD15 (visitors) and BD8.5 (for children under 12). From 12pm to 4pm. Crèche available for younger children at BD3 per child per hour. Wok Me at the Pool, pool side terrace (Mövenpick), an Asian dish wok fried by the chef at BD4.400. From 12pm to 4pm. The Meat Room, La Mosaique (Crowne Plaza) Serving Angus certified beef, fresh and succulent – choose any cut you like – and have it cooked to perfection on the grill in front of you.
Saturdays
Lebanese Grill at the Pool, poolside terrace (Mövenpick) A selection of delicious Lebanese grill with tender grilled shish tawouk, kofta, lamb chops and beef tikka - served the Lebanese way. BD6 per plate from 12pm to 4pm. Kids Eat For Free at Links Restaurant and Lounge (Royal Golf Club) - for every adult main course ordered at lunchtime, children under 12 can order a dish from the kids’ menu for free. From 11am to 3pm. Business Lunch at Waves Seafood Restaurant, (Crowne Plaza) From 12pm to 4pm. BD8.5++ (3 courses); BD6.950++ (2 courses). The Meat Room, La Mosaique (Crowne Plaza) serving Angus certified beef, fresh
Please be aware that due to current economic situation, timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.
Gastro Brunch and Bubbles Asian style Mo Kan restaurant offers Japanese, Chinese, Indonesian and Thai cuisine. Its signature dish is Dim Sum with Sake and Teas as signature beverages. Open from 12pm to 4pm then 7pm to 11.30pm. The Terrazza Bistro, located next to the swimming pool serves a wide range of fresh salads, pasta, light sandwiches, snacks and other Mediterranean specialties. Open from 11am to 12pm. Tel. 1736 0000. Seafood Dinners at Mövenpick Every Monday, Silk’s restaurant offers a lavish seafood buffet filled with oysters, sushi, sashimi, and succulent – choose any cut you like – and have it cooked to perfection on the grill in front of you.
Everyday
Al Waha (Gulf Hotel) available at BD21.2 net.
mussels, lobsters, shrimps, a seafood wok station
Tel. 1771 3000.
and much more for BD16.9++ per person. Also
Golden Tulip available at BD17.5++ inclusive of
available is the ‘seafood night plus package’ for
selected beverages. Tel. 1753 5000.
BD22++ with unlimited beverages.
AB FAB Brunch (Crowne Plaza) available at
Tel. 1746 0000. Dinner starts at 7pm.
Block 338 (Adliya), Happy Hour! Choose 3 Tapas plates for BD5 and buy one get one free on all drinks. From 4pm to 7pm. Tel. +973 1771 0338.
BD17.950++. Tel. 1753 1122. Elite Seef Residence available at BD15 for
Spices
unlimited food and drink.
Tuck into Spices Indian Restaurant’s ‘Quick Tiffin
Bushido (Seef), Business Lunch with selections including Rolls&Sushi, Bento Box and Tepanyaki starting from BD8++ (all packages come with green ice tea). ‘Afterwork’ - “Buy one, get one free” on selected items from 4pm to 8pm.
Tel. 3885 7122 or 3963 5502.
Taster Lunch’ and enjoy 25% off their new menu.
Le Jardin (Ramada Hotel) available at BD9.2.
Includes a choice of curry, dal, rice, naan, lassi and
Tel. 1774 2000.
dessert, all served in 30 minutes at a price of BD4.9
Ric’s Country Kitchen (Juffair) available at BD15.
net. Available until the 30th April .
Tel. 1772 5550.
For more information Tel. 1753 1122
Zytoun (Novotel Al Dana Resort) - Take charge of your pizza and pasta dishes every night at live stations at Zytoun Restaurant. Prices start from BD2.5++
MUJU Jazzy Brunch (Dragon Hotel Resort) available at BD25 net. From 12pm to 5pm.
Pasta Festival
Tel. 1603 9800
Mamma Mia!!! Marriott Executive Apartments,
Classic Roast Carvery (Links, Royal Golf Club)
Manama, will be celebrating a pasta festival at the
La Perle (Novotel Al Dana Resort) - Buffet available everyday for BD12; ‘Seafood Nights’ with fresh seafood display combined with buffet dinner for BD9.9++ (weekdays) and BD12.5 (weekend). Closed on Sundays.
available at BD15 (kids under twelve, BD8.5);
Skywalk Café up until the 30th April. The hotel offers
from 12pm to 3pm. Tel. 1775 0777.
‘the best’ homemade pasta, uplifted to perfection
La Brasserie (Elite Resort and Spa) available at
prepared by a team of professional chefs.
BD6.5++. Tel. 1731 3333.
For more information and reservations
Mövenpick Brunch available at BD23.200++ per
Tel. 1736 3999.
Al Yacout (Novotel) - Authentic Moroccan food, elegant atmosphere, beach views and live entertainment with dishes starting at BD18++ Opens from 8pm to 2am.
person plus unlimited selected beverages; from
Brunch and Bubbles
(Advisory: Brunches may change due to current events)
12.30pm to 4pm. Tel. 1746 0007.
If you want to see your event listed … Listings need to be received by Bahrain Confidential
K Hotel restaurants
by the 15th of every month at the very latest. Gastro
Kloud’s restaurant converts into a Steak House
and nightlife listings are updated every month
during the evening with a selection of steaks
through our mailing list. If you would like to be
including certified Angus beef, rib eye, rump and
included or if you have a one-off event you would
aged sirloin. Open 24 hours.
like to be featured contact: Jack@ArabianMagazines.com
The Diplomat Blu Brunch (The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence and Spa) available at BD22 net (military personnel and Saudi Aramco BD20 net); from 11.30am to 3pm. Tel. +973 3994 5208.
Spices
La Mediterranee (The Ritz-Carlton) available at BD19++. Tel. 1758 0000. Rimal (Al Areen Palace and Spa) available at BD16++ (soft drinks), BD20++ (selected beverages), BD32++ (unlimited drinks). Tel. 1784 5000. La Brasserie (Elite Resort and Spa) at BD6.500++. Tel. 3668 2178. Zytoun (Novotel Al Dana Resort) available at BD18++. Tel. 1729 8008. Brazil Lounge (Adliya) eat and drink as much as you wish for BD15.800. Tel. 1782 6686.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 115
Dining In
Food For
Thought Bahrain Confidential checks out what’s cooking this month.
Melon, Ginger and Basil Fruit Punch Ingredients:
250g seedless watermelon, peeled, cut into 1.5cm pieces 250g rock melon, peeled, deseeded, cut into 1.5cm pieces 250g honeydew melon, peeled, deseeded, cut into 1.5cm pieces 1 x 750ml btl Stone’s Original Green Ginger Wine 1/4 cup small fresh basil leaves ice cubes, to serve chilled dry ginger ale, to serve fresh basil leaves, extra, to serve
Instructions:
• Place the combined melon and wine in a large jug. Cover and place in the fridge for 1 hour to chill. • Transfer the melon mixture to a punch bowl. • Add the basil leaves and some ice cubes. • Divide extra ice cubes among serving glasses. • Pour in the melon mixture. Top with dry ginger ale and basil leaves. Serve.
Hot Cross Truffles Ingredients:
2 100g pack, Lindt Excellence Extra Creamy milk chocolate, coarsely chopped 80ml (1/3 cup) thickened cream 60g (1/3 cup) dried mixed fruit 1/2 tsp ground mixed spice 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon 1 375g pack, milk chocolate melts 150g white chocolate melts
Instructions:
• Place milk chocolate and cream in a heatproof bowl over a medium saucepan half-filled with simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Stir with a metal spoon until chocolate melts into smooth mixture. • Remove whole cherries from mixed fruit and combine with mixed spice, cinnamon and chocolate mixture. Cover and place in the fridge for 3 hours or until firm. • Line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper. Roll tablespoonfuls of mixture into balls. • Place on the lined tray. Place in the fridge for 30 minutes or until firm. • Place the milk chocolate melts in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Stir until chocolate melts smoothly with metal spoon. Use a truffle dipper or a fork to dip 1 truffle into the melted chocolate. • Remove truffle, tapping the dipper handle gently on the edge of the bowl to shake off excess chocolate. Place on the lined tray. Set aside for 10 minutes to set. • Place white chocolate melts in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Use a metal spoon to stir until chocolate melts smoothly. Using a 4mm plain nozzle piping bag, pipe a cross on the top of each truffle. Set aside for 10 minutes. Serve.
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Chilli and Rosemary Potatoes Ingredients:
1kg large potatoes, peeled, quartered 60ml (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil 1 fresh red chilli, halved lengthwise, deseeded, chopped 1 tbsp coarsely chopped fresh rosemary
Instructions:
• Preheat oven to 220°C. Cook the potato in a saucepan of salted boiling water for 10 minutes or until almost tender. Drain. Return to the pan. • Add 2 tablespoons of oil and shake the pan to coat. • Transfer to a roasting pan. Drizzle over remaining oil. • Bake for 20 minutes. Add chilli and rosemary. Toss to combine. • Bake for a further 25 minutes or until crisp and golden.
Dining Out Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge and Garden
B
Block 338 Delights! One of the newest addition to Bahrain’s restaurant scene, Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge and Garden has since received rave reviews since it opened its doors back in October last year. Bahrain Confidential went to investigate ….
If you’re vegetarian, there’s plenty to choose from: ‘sweet lock 338 “transports you pequillos’ – peppers roasted on wood fire, stuffed with goat’s to Parisian decadence, cheese and topped with honey and toasted pine nuts; or the Mediterranean leisure, ‘vegetarian paella’ mixed with halloumi cheese, and the ‘market London’s delight and salad’ – fresh greens with crispy tofu (as croutons!) with just a New York’s instant touch of sesame oil which made all the difference. Epicureanism”, as Care for dessert? They make fresh sorbets everyday! indicated on their Churned to smooth perfection, choose from a variety of restaurant information. flavours: raspberry, mango, lychee, passion fruit and more. We As Bahrain has quite a large number of also had a dig at the crème brûlée, (who would think of serving brunch-goers, we decided it was best to it with beets?!) go during the restaurant’s lunch hour. To say we walked away impressed is an Their menu, all of which are designed understatement. Block 338 is a gem. Although, to be shared, can be broken down into they could be faulted as to why we didn’t have almost pub-ready fare with their relaxed more apple martinis in our glasses, but then atmosphere and tapas-style presentation; again that’s down to us being greedy! to more elevated compositions such as the astonishingly soft ‘slow braised beef short ribs’ which are marinated 24 hours prior, Open daily from 12pm to 2am, Block 338 drizzled with sweet bbq sauce and served Restaurant, Lounge and Garden is at Block 338, on a base of über-creamy mashed potatoes. Adliya, (next to NYiT Campus). For reservations, Block 338’s commitment to using Tel. +973 1771 0338. superior ingredients is down to Head Chef Navishen Mudaly, who’s also the Group Executive Chef for MESK Holdings (the Head Chef Navishen Mudaly holding company for the restaurant). “All our recipes are especially created for Block 338 and not copied from elsewhere, because for us it’s all about offering a dining concept that’s not only unique but at the same time also educates people about a fresh and innovative way to look at food.” Vegetarian Paella So onto the food – where merit is aplenty. We tried the famed ‘arancini balls’ - risotto rice that’s subtly crunchy on the outside, but soft on the inside with mozzarella cheese and paired with pesto sauce; followed by luscious ‘pan-seared scallops’ served with a tomato-based Block salad and ‘crispy chili squid’ coated 338 random in a secret spice batter. Next was the fact: Their chicken Greek classic, barbecued octopus – yes, comes especially you heard it right. A touch of paprika, from France, which are coarse salt and some lemon make it organically corn-fed for 40 truly scrumptious. We also ordered days, which explains the ‘lamb lollipops’- so tender and grilled tenderness and depth of to perfection and served with a special the meat’s flavour. coriander sauce with honey and mint – simply delightful!
Sorbet Trio
Market Salad
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 117
Nightlife
The Night so Bright
Never Looked
Dance as though no one is looking ...
raffle draw and 1 free drink for ladies. Cocoon Lounge (Juffair) - BD12 per person for a sushi platter and unlimited selected beverages from 7pm to 11pm. Enigma (Windsor Tower) - Tequila shots BD1. Happy hour between 4pm to 9pm receive 20% off all drinks. 3 free drinks for ladies. Harvesters (Crowne Plaza) - Ladies Night and ladies drink for free (selected drinks only). Tabu (Adhari Hotel) - Free margaritas for ladies. Warblers (Baisan Hotel) - Two free drinks and food buffet from 7pm onwards. Unlimited free drinks for ladies. Shift 7 (Elite Resort and Spa) - Happy hour 3pm to 7.30pm, 20% off all drinks. Buy 4 bottles of Fosters and get 1 free. JJ’s (Adliya) - Microphone madness karaoke starts at 9pm. Fiddler’s Green (Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence and Spa) - Open 12pm to 1am. Live music available.
Tuesday
Sunday
Harvesters (Crowne Plaza) - FBI Night discounted drinks and hoteliers get 50% discount on food and drink. Casa Bar (Mercure Grand) - 1 free drink and a musical duo performance. Envy (Palace Hotel) - Dance Fever - the best Hip Hop Dancers show! Free entrance for all from 9pm to 11pm; Happy hour from 9pm11pm, selected drinks BD1. Enigma (Windsor Tower) - Buy a Sol beer bucket and get 1 beer free. Happy hour from 4pm and 9pm, get 20% off all drinks. 3 free drinks for ladies. Brazil Lounge (Adliya) - Ladies drink free from 7pm to 11pm. JJ’s (Adliya) - Sunday Roast and Quiz Night plus ladies enjoy unlimited beverages for just BD4. Shift 7 (Elite Resort and Spa) - 2 free drinks for ladies, happy hour 3pm to 7.30pm 20%
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off all drinks. Buy 4 bottles of Fosters and get 1 free. Warbler (Baisan Hotel) - Unlimited free drinks for ladies. Fiddler’s Green (Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence and Spa) - Open 12pm to 1am. Live music available. La Bellevue Lounge (Novotel) - Happy Hours 7pm to 9pm. Drink all you can, all bar items with 20% discount. Enjoy live piano music.
Monday
Rock Bottom Café (Ramee International) Buy 2 bullfrogs, get one free. Envy (Palace Hotel) - Thai night - Free buffet,
Aqua (Days Inn) - Free drinks for ladies. Casa Bar (Mercure Grand) - Ladies night, free entrance and a free drink. Camelot (Adliya) - Happy Hour from 4pm to 9pm and wine tasting 7pm to 10pm for BD7. Enigma (Windsor Tower) - All beers BD2 and ladies receive 2 free drinks. Happy hour between 4pm to 9pm with 20% off all drinks. Envy (Palace Hotel) - Buy One Get One Free. Shift 7 (Elite Resort and Spa) - Happy hour 3pm to 7.30pm 20% off all drinks. Buy 4 bottles of Fosters and get 1 free. JJ’s (Adliya) - Dance the night away with DJ Dwayne and enjoy the best tracks of the ‘90s. Plus it’s Ladies Night (BD4 for unlimited house drinks). Harvesters (Crowne Plaza) - 2 for 1 on all cocktails. La Bellevue Bar (Novotel) - Learn Salsa for free from 7pm, with special happy hours. Warbler (Baisan Hotel) - Unlimited free drinks for ladies. Fiddler’s Green (Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence and Spa) - Open 12pm to 1am. Live music available.
Wednesday
Enigma (Windsor Tower) - Happy hour between 4pm and 9pm, 20% off all drinks also bullfrogs are buy 1 get 1 free. Cocoon Lounge (Best Western) - Bringing you the best in international and local DJs. Complimentary cocktails and free entry for the Ladies! JJ’s (Adliya) - Weekend Warm U-Free drinks for ladies for BD4.
Please be aware that due to current economic situation, timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.
Nightlife 8th Casa D’Costa Presents Damian D’Costa. 13th Ladies Night with Shawn Adrian. 15th Ladies Night with Saxophonist Franky Flowerz.
2nd Anniversary: Bushido Expands
To mark its second year, Bushido has added some new areas including the new Bushido Lounge; ‘The Island’ and the ‘Al Fresco Terrace’. Executive Chef Chong has also added new dishes to the menu including special international cuisine recipes. Note: Bushido’s main dining area now complies with the non-smoking rule. For those who wish to smoke, lounges and outdoor areas are available.
Thursday
Bushido (Seef District) ‘Thursdays’ at Bushido, from 10pm. Cocoon Lounge (Best Western Hotel) ‘Fabulous!’ the exclusive R’n’B night with special guest Urban DJ! Ladies raise your glasses for free bubbly all night long. Enigma (Windsor Tower) - Happy hour from 4pm to 9pm, 20% off all drinks. Unlimited drinks BD12. Fiddlers Green (Diplomat Radisson Blu) Unlimited free drinks for ladies. JJ’s (Adliya) -The BIG night out! Special bar promotions. Shift 7 (Elite Resort and Spa) - Happy hour 3pm to 7.30pm, 20% off all drinks. Buy 4 bottles of Fosters and get 1 free.
Friday
Enigma (Windsor Tower) - Happy hour from 4pm to 9pm, 20% off all drinks. Cocoon Lounge (Best Western) - Bringing you the best in international and local DJs. Complimentary cocktails and free entry for the Ladies! Camelot (Adliya) - Unlimited Sangria from 4pm to 8pm. Shift 7 (Elite Resort and Spa) - 2 free drinks
for ladies, happy hour 3pm to 7.30pm 20% off all drinks. Buy 4 bottles of Fosters and get 1 free. Harvesters (Crowne Plaza) - Ladies and Jammers Night - Jam with the band while the ladies have 2 free drinks. Warbler (Baisan Hotel) - Unlimited free drinks for ladies. Fiddler’s Green (Diplomat Radisson Blu) Ladies night - girls drink for free! Open 12pm to 2am. Live music available.
A little bit of advice for you … Even though we try our best to be 100 per cent accurate, unfortunately sometimes offers change, get discontinued and in some cases for unforeseen reasons the venue may be closed. We recommend that you double check with the establishment listed to see if the details are correct. You can usually find all the contact details in our ‘Nightspots’ directory page. Further research is done by Susan Cook.
Saturday
If you want to see your event listed … Listings need to be received by Bahrain Confidential at the very latest by the 15th of every month. Gastro and nightlife listings are updated every month through our mailing list, if you would like to appear on our mailing list or if you have a one-off event you would like to be featured please contact: Jack@ArabianMagazines.com
Enigma (Windsor Tower) - Happy hour from 4pm to 9pm, 20% off all drinks. 3 free drinks for ladies. Envy (Palace Hotel) - Thai Night, free Thai buffet, free entrance for ladies plus one selected free drink. JJ’s (Adliya) - Sports during the day; ladies night BD4. Shift 7 (Elite Resort and Spa) - Happy hour 3pm to 7.30pm, 20% off all drinks. Buy 4 bottles of Fosters and get 1 free. Harvesters (Crowne Plaza) - 2 for 1 on all cocktails. La Bellevue Bar (Novotel) - Learn Salsa for free from 7pm, with special happy hours. Warbler (Baisan Hotel) - Unlimited free drinks for ladies. MUJU (Dragon Resort, Amwaj) The Muju Deck transforms into a relaxing chill-out venue with Resident DJ Dave Hayes playing a variety of eclectic music. A special Sundowner Sessions Menu will be serving all the popular sundowner cocktails we love. From 4pm to 9pm Fiddler’s Green (Diplomat Radisson Blu) Open 12pm to 1am. Live music available.
Cocoon Lounge this Month 1st Ladies Night with Discal (Next Dimension Music).
13th Cocoon Lounge’s Ladies Night with Shawn Adrian.
Harvesters (Crowne Plaza) - 4 Pint Pitcher Night - Quench your thirst with a pitcher of Heineken, Amstel Light or Budweiser for only BD6.5++. Shift 7 (Elite Resort and Spa) - Happy hour 3pm to 7.30pm 20% off all drinks. Buy 4 bottles of Fosters and get 1 free. Jims (Adliya) - 3 free drinks for ladies. Warbler (Baisan Hotel) - Unlimited free drinks for ladies. Envy (Palace Hotel) - Tropical Beach Club Party. A fun twist on a traditional Luau theme with Polynesian flair. Fiddler’s Green (Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence and Spa) - Open 12pm to 1am Live music available.
Shawn Adrian
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 119
d e s s i M What’s On
e b o t t o N
114 - 119 s e g a p o t htlife turn g i n & o r t s events, ga e r o m Bonham’s Dubai Auction r o F
1st – 16th
Digital Photography Workshop with Nedhal Nooh
This workshop (for adults) is Basic beginner digital photography, it will focus on two parts; one will be about the theory of basic photography, and the second will be practical and hands on. The objective of the workshop is to teach the basics of photography to the participants and provide them with guidance in the field during the practical sessions. Topics include: The understanding of a camera’s construction and control, lenses and exposure. The participants will also become acquainted with understanding light, composition and much more. This workshop is for adults. Mondays 6.30pm to 8.30pm, Saturdays 10am to 12pm at Al Riwaq Art Space, Adliya. Tel. +973 1771 7441 or visit www.alriwaqartspace.com
12th – 13th
Bonham’s Dubai Auction
The famous auction house, Bonhams, will stage its first dedicated Photographs Sale in Dubai alongside its annual top Orientalist Art auction at the One&Only Royal Mirage. A photograph entitled Euphoria, 2010 by the award-winning Palestinian artist Steve Sabella is one of the highlights of the Photographs Sale. Part of his internationally acclaimed Jerusalem: In Exile project, it has attracted a pre-sale estimate of USD14,000-18,000. Another important lot in the Photography sale is an enormous seven-part photo collage by Lebanese artist Camille Zakharia entitled Cultivate Your Garden, 1998, estimated at USD30,000-40,000. The Orientalist Sale will include masterpieces from renowned European and American artists from the 19th and 20th Centuries. Public viewings
Digital Photography Workshop with Nedhal Nooh
are: 12th April – 2pm to 7pm and 13th April – 9am to 7pm. For more information visit www.bonhams.com/dubai
Ongoing
Sar Music Centre
If the kids (and yes you adults too!) are getting bored, the Sar Music Centre offers various classes. Open from Saturday to Thursday, 9am to 12.30pm and 2.30pm to 6.30pm, their programmes include: children’s choir for kids aged five to seven, Mondays at 4pm; intermediate choir for children eight to twelve years old, Mondays at 5pm and a youth choir every Monday at 5.30pm. There’s also African drumming every Sunday at 4.30pm open to kids aged six and above – also open to adults; orchestra sessions every Tuesday, 5pm are also open to both children and adults. Other ongoing offers include individual and shared lessons in piano, violin, cello, guitar, singing and trumpets. For more information contact Lydia Martin on Tel. +973 1779 4898 or +973 3904 7734.
Sar Music Centre
12 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Listings
Recommended Restaurants Chinese China Garden Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 With a chilled out resonance and deep, comfy chairs this place has the convivial atmosphere of a friend’s house only with better service.
Hong Kong Adliya, Tel. 1772 8700 The myriad dishes are served in abundance and are all delicately and lovingly flavoured. The soft steamed dumplings are magnificent, the sizzling seafood is cooked to perfection, and the beef with black mushrooms and bamboo shoots deserves plaudits beyond Bahrain.
Soie Sheraton, Tel. 1753 3533 Chinese and Asian specialities in sophisticated and elegant Oriental surroundings.
Indian Nirvana The Ritz-Carlton, Tel. 1758 0000 Nirvana is one of the best looking curry houses in the region and has a ‘secret’ dining booth for the lovers out there.
International Fusions Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 The food and wine list will keep you coming back to Fusions. Try the beautifully tender grilled sirloin with boldly flavoured ginger mash and a selection of roasted vegetables.
Links Restaurant The Royal Golf Club, Tel. 1775 0777 Links, located on the mezzanine floor of the Club House, is a large, brasserie-style restaurant/ lounge open to all visitors to the Royal Golf Club. Features include a cocktail bar, an outdoor terrace and floor to ceiling picture windows offering patrons spectacular views across the golf courses.
Silk’s Mövenpick Hotel, Tel. 1746 0000 With cuisine inspired by the four continents of the Silk Route, the food on offer here is eclectic and varied all cooked in front of you in open kitchens around the restaurant.
Waves Crowne Plaza Hotel, Tel. 1753 1122 A popular lunchtime retreat, picking your fish and
eating it is the order of the day, and the catch is as varied as it is complete. And the nutty, honey-combed chocolate fudge delight will finish you off nicely.
Al Safir Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, Tel. 1753 3533 Al Safir does a bustling buffet trade with people partial to Lebanese mezzeh. For a more refined palette, their a la carte menu offers a range of simpler, more delicate bites.
Le Jardin Ramada Bahrain, Tel. 1774 2000 Fully renovated with a new look - ‘Bigger, Better, Brighter’.
The Gallery Mövenpick Hotel, Tel. 1746 0000 Picturesque pool and lagoon views.
La Méditerranée The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Tel. 1758 0000 Asian, French, Mediterranean and International cuisine.
Le Bistro InterContinental Regency, Tel. 1722 7777 Main restaurant situated above the lobby with International buffet lunch daily.
Olivos Brasserie The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1752 2124 This Mediterranean brasserie offers superb food in a relaxed atmosphere. In buffet style you can enjoy a super breakfast, sumptuous lunch and delicious dinner.
American Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Juffair, Tel. 1772 5550 Specialising in good ol’ fashioned home-cooked American chow, Ric’s does a mean burger, excellent chilli and a mouth watering Jambalaya. Its American breakfasts are legendary.
Italian Mondo Restaurant The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666 The goat’s cheese and rocket pizza is probably the best in Bahrain. A funky, friendly Italian place, just like momma used to make it.
Primavera The Ritz-Carlton, Tel. 1758 0000 Authentic Italian dishes abound on a menu
featuring some truly incredible home made pastas. The portions are generous and service is sharp.
La Pergola Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 Traditional and contemporary Italian specialities with Italian music.
Japanese Sato Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 The food here is good. Order well and you will be rewarded with your favourite dishes done very well indeed.
Middle Eastern Kosebası Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2322 www.kosebasi.com Kosebası (pronounced koshe-bashi) serves traditional Turkish mezes and main dishes true to original Southern Anatolian recipes. The centerpieces of the restaurant are a lovely ornated oven and an open charcoal grill.
Al Fanar Supper Club
Kontiki Restaurant The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666 Enjoy authentic dishes from Asia and the South Pacific for lunch and dinner. Or head over to the Kontiki Pool bar from 10am to 11pm.
Steakhouses Plums The Ritz-Carlton, Tel. 1758 0000 Great steaks served in a suave and subtle room of dark polished wood, low-lighting and a curious mural adorning a wall.
The Butcher Shop & Grill Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2323 Serves a wide variety of steaks as well as salads, burgers and seafood dishes. Integrated into the restaurant is also a fully functioning retail butchery, which enables customers to choose a specific cut and size or buy meats for their home requirements.
Thai Royal Thai Seafood Restaurant
Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666 An International cabaret show with a traditional Arabic theme. Friday offers a fusion breakfast and lunch featuring live cooking stations, unlimited bubbly, live band and raffle draws.
Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 Colonial stateliness and Asian adornment is the order of the day with high ceilings, great white pillars and multiple levels to accommodate private alcoves; it’s a grand and gracious setting. Choose ostrich, just because you can.
Zahle
Café
Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 Zahle extols the virtues of simplicity. The food here is as honest as the day is long and all the better for it. And the presentation of the food is something else with the shish kebab served on a golden box complete with burning coals. There is a live band and a belly dancer to keep you entertained whilst eating.
Seafood Le Perle Novotel Al Dana Resort, Tel. 1729 8008 This restaurant is pretty with gorgeous views of the sea and the city, its romance sweetly compliments its seafood menu that serves local specialities as well as more internationally renowned fare. The service is attentive without being intrusive and it has an inventive wine list.
120 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Asian
Café T
The Royal Golf Club, Tel. 1775 0777 Café T serves a selection of burgers, salads, fresh and ready-made sandwiches, fruit juices, milkshakes and frozen drinks. With an outdoor terrace seating up to 30 people and relaxing background music, Café T is the perfect place to meet up for a chat with friends.
PAUL Bakery & Restaurant Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2321 Seef Mall, Tel. 1758 0073 www.paul.fr Since the founding of the first small PAUL bakery in Lille back in 1889, the passion for authentic bread making has been passed on through generations. - and relax in PAUL’s unique ‘rusticchic’ ambience.
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368
Listings
Restaurant Listings American Applebee’s Bahrain Mall, Sanabis (1755 5834) Open Sun-Thu, 11am-mid-night, Fri –Sat, 11am - 1am. Average BD10. Bennigan’s Al Safir Hotel, Juffair (1781 3750) Open Sun-Wed, 11am-1.30am; Thu and Sat, 9am-1.30am; Fri, 11am-2am. Average BD18. Brasa de Brazil Seef Mall, Seef District (1758 2225) Open daily, noon-11pm. Average BD10. Chilli’s Seef Mall/Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1758 1221/1717 9794) Open daily, noon-midnight. N.B.: BCC opening times apply. Average BD20. Hard Rock Café Exhibition Road, Hoora (1729 1569) Open daily, 8am-1am. Average BD10. Café A Lounge Adliya, Behind Monsoon (1771 0041) Open daily, 11am-2am. Average BD15. Al Bindaira Adliya (1774 4066) Open Mon-Thu, 10.30am-12.30am, Fri, 1pm-1am. Average BD12.
House of Coffee Muharraq, Sheikh Ebrahim Centre (3662 9968) Open daily 9am-9pm, Average BD6. La Maison du Café Adliya (1771 7524) Open daily 8am-2am. Average BD12. La Ventana At the moment La Ventana is currently undergoing renovation – check this space over the coming months to find out where the new café is located and our opinion!
Maya Chocolat Seef Mall, Seef District Open Sun-Wed, 10am-11pm; Fri-Sat, 10am-midnight. Average BD15.
Maya La Chocolaterie Seef Mall (1758 3368) Open daily, Sun-Thursday 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-12am.
Med Café Adliya, near Carlton Hotel (1771 3088) Open daily 11am-1am. Average BD10.
Patchi Manama, near Dairy Queen (1725 0501) Open daily 9.30am-9pm.
Motorox Café Budaiya Highway (1759 2583) Open daily from noon-midnight. Average BD12.
RAWASI Chocola Mahooz, near Qatar Embassy Open daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm. Fri open from 4pm-9pm.
Palm Café Qal’at Al Bahrain Museum (1732 2549) Open daily 9.30am-7.30pm. Average BD6.
Al Riwaq Café Adliya, Block 338 (1771 7441) Open daily 10am-9pm. Average BD5
Skyw@alk Café Marriott Executive Apartments, Juffair Open daily 6.30am-11.30pm. Average BD12.
Café Lilou Adliya, Block 338 (1771 4440) Open Sat-Thu 8am-11pm; Fri 10am-11.30pm. Average BD10.
Tea Club The Lagoon, Amwaj Islands Open daily 12pm – midnight. Average BD8.
Café Ceramique Al A’ali Mall, Seef District Open daily, 9am-11pm; Fri-Sat 9am-midnight. Average BD8. Coco’s Adliya, Block 338 (1771 6512) Open daily 10am-midnight. Average BD10. Columbus Café Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 2324) Open daily, 8am-midnight. Average BD7. Crepe Café Palm Square, Budaiya Highway (7711 5566) Open Sun-Wed, 8am-midnight. Thu-Sat 8am-1pm. Average BD6. Deli France Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 6031) Open Sun-Thu, 8am-10pm; Fri-Sat, 8am-11pm. Average BD9. Dome Café Juffair, near American Base (1781 0180) Open 24 hours. Average BD15. Friend’s Club Adliya, 54 Bani Otbah Avenue (1771 3732) Open Sat-Wed, 10am-midnight; Thu-Fri, 10am-1am. Average BD8. Gloria Jean’s Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9262) Open Sat-Wed, 9am-10.30pm; Thu-Fri, 9am-midnight. Average BD8.
La Papillon Manama, near Dairy Queen (1725 5542) Open daily 9.30am-9pm. Lovely Memories Mahooz (1772 2533) Open daily 10am-10pm.
Patisserie Valerie MODA Mall, Diplomatic Area Open daily 7.30am-9pm.
Caramel Cyprus Gardens, Budaiya (1779 7087) Open daily, 8.30am-midnight. Average BD5.
Hotel Chocolat Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9779) Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight.
Le Chocolat Seef, Seef District Open daily 7.30am-midnight. Average BD10.
Albareh Art Café Adliya, Behind the Carlton Hotel (1771 3535) Open daily, 8.30am-11pm. Average BD5.
Candles Coffee Adliya, Behind Fudruckers (1771 4844) Open Sun-Thu 9am-1am; Fri 5pm-1am, Average BD12.
Chocolatiers Godiva Seef Mall, Seef District (1758 0699) Open 10am-10pm.
Tilly’s Jawad Dome, Budaiya Open daily 8.30am-9.30pm Average BDXX Veranda Adliya, Nr HSBC bank and Adhari (1771 5868) Open daily 9.am-1am. Average BD8 Waterlemon Al A’ali Shopping Complex, Seef District (1758 1785) Open daily, 10am-11pm. Average BD6. Chinese Beijing Chinese Adliya, Block 338 (1771 7969) Open daily, 11.30-3pm, 6pm-midnight. Average BD15. First Chinese Adliya (1771 3603) Open noon-3.30pm, 6pm-midnight. Average BD18.
Salvia Budaiya, Budaiya Highway Open daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm. Fri open from 4pm-9pm. East Asian Baan Saeng Thai Sh Isa Avenue, Adliya Open daily 11.30am-3pm, 6pm-midnight. Bali Orchid Nr Omar Khayyam Hotel, Gudaibiya (1718 0424) Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD7 BamBu Adliya (1771 4424) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm. Average BD28 Captain Cove’s Behind Mass Computer, Gudaibiya (3975 8989) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight. Average BD5 Hash House Adliya, Block 338 (1771 5094) Open daily 11am-midnight. Average BD15 Honey’s Souq (1774 9222) Open Sun-Wed 10am-5.30am, Fri-Sat, 24hrs. Mamy Soup Exhibition Road, behind the CPR building (3919 5343) Open daily 11am-11pm
French Camelot Block 338, Adliya (1771 7745) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD30. L’Avenue Seef District (1756 7212) Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7.30pm-11pm Mezzaluna Adliya (1774 2999) Open daily Sun-Wed 7pm-11pm; Thu-Sat 7pm-11.30pm Average BD46. Indian Aachi’s Chettinand Kitchen Near the Indian Club, Gudaibiya (1723 3110) Open daily 10.30am-3.30pm, 5.30pm-11.30pm. Akbar Ramada Palace Hotel (1729 6660) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-12.30am. Average BD16. Asha’s Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 7008) Open daily 11am-noon. Clay Oven Adliya (1771 7008) Open daily 11.30am-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm Average BD14. Copper Chimney Al Hambra Hotel (1772 8699) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average DB10. Lanterns Budaiya Highway (1759 0591) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD15. Moti Mahal Juffair (1782 5333) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD15. Mumbai Spice Bahrain Mall, Sanabis Open daily 10am-10pm Sangeetha Opp Inidian Club, Gudaibiya (1727 2768) Open daily 7.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm Spices Crowne Plaza Bahrain, Diplomatic Area (1753 1122) Open daily noon-11pm Average BD25. Takatak Nr Awal Cinema, Gudaibiya (1725 4848) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm
Monsoon Adliya, near Ferrari Centre (1774 9222) Open Sat-Thu noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11pm; Fri 7pm11pm. Average BD15.
The Great Kebab Factory Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 0629) Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight International
Nu Asia Seef, near Al A’ali Shopping Complex (1758 7171) Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD15.
Al Waha Restaurant Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6425) Open 24 hours
Ken Lo’s Memories of China Adliya (1771 7080) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD50.
Pong’s Off Exhibition Road, Behind CPR Office (1753 0800) Open daily 11am-4am.
Al Wasmeyah Restaurant Golden Tulip Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 5000) Open 24hours
Magic Wok American Alley, Juffair (1769 4105) Open daily 8am-11pm.
Thai Chi Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9747) Open daily noon-midnight.
Memories Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 8646) Open Sat-Wed 11am-11pm; Thu-Fri 11ammidnight. Average BD12.
Thai Express Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 3595) Open daily 10am-11.30pm
Foli Um Al Hassam (1772 2199) Open noon-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm. Average BD18.
Thailand Block 338, Adliya (1771 7040) Open daily 6.30pm-11.30pm, Average BD15.
Block 338 Adliya (1771 0338) Open every evening from noon-2am Café Sayah Delmon International Hotel (1722 4000) Open 24 hours La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts Ras Ruman (1771 3000) Open daily 9am-10.30pm. Closed Monday. Average BD20.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 121
Listings
Restaurant Listings Muju Restaurant and Lounge Dragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 9800) Open daily, 24 hours Nando’s Juffair (1782 5100) Open 11am-2am Rendezvous Seef Mall, Seef (1758 7708) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm Rimal Al Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000) Open daily 6.30am-11pm Average BD40.
Oliveto Block 338, Adliya (1771 6747) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD30. Pizzeria Café Italia Seef Mall (1758 2823) Open daily 11am-11pm. Average BD12. Roma Um Al Hassam (1772 5885) Open daily noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm. Average BD30. Romano Macaroni Grill Juffair (1772 3818)
Teatro Dana Mall (1755 8555) Sat-Wed 1pm-4.30pm, 6.30pm-midnight; Thu-Fri 1pm-11.30pm Average BD19.
Japanese Bushido Seef (1758 3555) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-2am. Average BD35
Upstairs Downstairs Adliya (1771 3093) Open daily 7am-11am, noon-3am, 7pm-midnight Average BD20.
Fuji Sushi Bar Sheza Tower Hotel (1753 3336) Open daily 12.30pm-midnight. Average BD25.
Yamin Jana Mediterranean Seafront Lounge Dragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 3800) Open daily from 2pm onwards
Hajisushi American Ally, Juffair (1772 5638) Open daily 11am-11pm.
Zoe Block 338, Adliya (1771 6400) Open Sat-Tue noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight; Wed-Fri noon-3pm, 7pm-2am. Average BD50.
Kei Golden Tulip Hotel (1753 5000) Open daily 12.30pm-3pm, 7.30pm-11pm. Average BD12-30.
Zytoun Novotel Al Dana Resort (1729 8008) Open daily 6.30am-midnight. Average BD16. Italian Caffe Spasso New Zinj (1782 2274) Open daily 8.30am till late Café Italia Adliya (1774 4774) Open daily noon-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm. Average BD35. La Taverna City Centre Hotel, Gold City (1722 9979) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD18. Mino’s Adliya (1774 4777) Open daily 11am-12.30am. Average BD15. Nino’s Al Aali Shopping Complex, Seef (1756 6555) Open daily 11am-11.30pm. Average BD7.
Maki MODA Mall (1752 2733) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD40. Mirai Adliya (1771 3113) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm. Average BD40. Sumo Sushi and Bento American Alley, Juffair (1771 8090) Open daily noon-midnight. Sushi 101 New Zinj (1782 2274) Open Sat-Thu noon-3pm, 6pm till late; Fri 1pm-4pm, 7pm till late. Sushi Ko Adliya (1771 6619) Open Sat-Wed 6.30pm-11pm; Thu 6.30pm-midnight. Average BD11. Yo Sushi Al Aali Shopping Complex, Seef (1758 3373) Open Sat-Wed noon-midnight; Thu-Fri noon-2am Average BD20.
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Mexican Casa Mexicana Adliya (1771 5521) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight. Average BD18. Margarita Mexicana Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6462) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm Senior Paco’s Adliya (1774 6462) Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight. Average BD18. Middle Eastern Al Abraaj Budaiya (1759 5656) Open daily noon-midnight Al Arisha Um Al Hassan (1772 5414) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight Al Arz Ramada Palace Hotel (1729 6660) Open 7pm-midnight Al Fanar Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa (1753 1666) Open Mon-Sat 9.30pm-2am Al Hamra Delmon International Hotel (1722 4000) Open 24 hours Al Mukhayam Ramada Palace Hotel Open daily 8pm-1am Al Shama Windsor Tower Hotel (1729 7000) Open daily 9pm-2am Al Yacout Novotel Al Dana Resort, Muharraq (1729 8008) Open daily 8pm-2am
Open daily 5am-9.30pm Mono Lebanese Budaiya Highway (1755 5262) Open daily noon-midnight Parsian Adliya (1781 1511) Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7.30pm-midnight. Average BD14 Persian Garden Seef (1758 600) Open noon-11pm Rayes Fateh Corniche (1731 2700) Open daily noon-12.30am Average BD12 Takht-e Jamsheed Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6431) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm Tarbouche City Centre Hotel, Gold City (1722 9979) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight Wafi Gourmet Bahrain City Centre (1779 999) Open daily 9am-12.30am Yas-e Isfahani Seef Mall (1758 1151) Open daily 10am-10pm. Average BD16. Polynesian Trader Vic’s Ritz Carlton Hotel and Spa, Seef (1758 6555) Open daily 7pm-midnight Average BD20. Seafood Fareast Seafood Market Ramee International Hotel, Juffair (1772 7230) Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pm. Average BD16.
Amwaj Dajla Iraqi Mirador Hotel, Manama (1729 8008) Open daily 8pm-2am
Fish Market Al Bander Hotel and Resort (1770 1201) Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pm Average BD25.
Anatolia Turkish Restaurant Cyprus Garden, Budaiya (1769 0601) Open daily noon-11pm
La Marine Bugerland Building, Budaiya (1759 5777) Open daily 1pm-midnight
Carla’s Cyprus Garden, Sehla (1769 7687) Open daily noon-midnight
Sheza Seafood Market Sheza Tower Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 3336) Open daily 12.30pm-midnight
Dar Al Tajine Phoenicia Tower Hotel, Hoora (1731 1167) Open daily 6pm-6pm
Totally Fish Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9757) Open daily noon-midnight
Golestan Sheraton Bahrain Hotel (1753 3533) Open Sun-Fri 12.30pm-2.30pm, 7.30pm-11.30pm. Average BD12
Steakhouse Brazil Adliya (1782 6686) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm.
Isfahani Hoora (1755 0567) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD20 Khan Al Marjan Al Safir Hotel Hotel (1782 7999) Open daily 9.30pm-2am L’Sultan L’Hotel, Seef (1756 7222) Open daily noon-midnight Laialy Zaman Nr Funland, Fateh Corniche (1729 3097) Open daily 11am-4am Marmaris Avenue 28, Sanabis (1755 5909) Open daily 11am-midnight Maseelee Gulf Pearl Hotel, Souq (1721 0647)
L’lle Al Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000) Open every evening, 6pm-11pm Le Relais de Venise Son Entrecote L’Hotel, Seef (1756 7222) Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm. Average BD40. Ponderose Steakhouse Manama and Seef (1756 7222) Open 11am-11pm. Sizzlers Restaurant Mansouri Mansions Hotel (1771 6999) 24 hours Average 10. The Meat Co Block 338 (1774 2080) Open Sat-Wed 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm; Thu-Fri 12.30pm-midnight Average BD50.
Listings
Nightspots Le Bellevue Novotel Al Dana Resort Tel. 1729 8008
Off the beaten track, Le Bellevue rewards you for having made the decision to do something different by providing a laidback haven for a quiet drink with stunning views of the city. Weather permitting, the terrace opens up and you can enjoy a cocktail in the open air. An unassuming place that is both welcoming and unobtrusive.
Burlington Club The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa, Tel. 1758 0000
“A gentleman’s club is his retreat,” someone once must have said, and the Burlington is it but in Bahrain. Whilst not an exclusively male domain, it comes replete with a very Gentleman’s club feel. With deep leather sofas, mahogany everywhere and bookshelves, it is authentic without ever being stuffy. Enjoy Havana cigars and from the cellar sip premium malts, cognacs and vintage wines.
Cosmos Ramee International Tel. 1772 7230
Fiddlers’ Green The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa Tel. 1753 1666
The best Irish pub on the island, Fiddlers Green is open all week from 12pm to 1am unless it’s a Thursday when it’s open until 2am! Enjoy drinks, pub grub and live music from the Boxtones.
Flamingo Bar Mövenpick Hotel Tel. 1746 0000
Ideal if you have a few hours to kill before your flight leaves or a friend arrives but this is more than just an alternative to the departure lounge. This bar is chic, with a walk-in wine cellar, black marbled bar and floor-to-ceiling windows that give stunning views over the lagoon. Every Tuesday is Ladies Night allowing you to prepare for Thursday’s ultimate party zone.
The Harvester Crowne Plaza Hotel Tel. 1753 1122
It is all about the music here. They Harvester boasts one of the best live bands on the island who would probably do well in Europe or the States. The do great renditions of other people’s popular songs. Love to hear them do their own. You can also get a camel burger here. It’s good.
It’s Trendy Ramee International Tel. 1772 7230
The thing with Its Trendy is that once have passed the slightly pretentious name and huge wooden door, it’s great inside, with low level lighting, interesting design and the music played at a respectful volume. Drinks are expertly mixed and there is a good selection of bar snacks and main meals. They will even connect a laptop for you, so you can check your emails with a drink in your hand. Perfect.
Al Areen Palace and Spa Crowne Plaza Diplomat Radisson Blu Gulf Mövenpick The Ritz-Carlton Sheraton
Burger King
1784 5000 1753 1122 1753 1666 1771 3000 1746 0000 1758 0000 1753 3533
Premier Four-Star Hotels Elite Elite Suites Hotel Elite Grande Elite Resort and Spa Elite Seef Hotel and Residence Golden Tulip Novotel Ramada Ramee International Al Safir
1782 7600 1755 8888 1756 5888 1731 3333 1758 3388 1753 5000 1729 8008 1774 2000 1772 7230 1782 7999
Tracks Crowne Plaza Hotel Tel. 1753 1122
Possibly this place is one for the boys. It’s not seedy but it is jam-packed with retro arcade machines and pinball tables. It’s also a sports bar with big screens everywhere showing live footage of current worldwide sports events. Go there with him if you are an avid sports fan with a fetish for 80’s gaming.
Trader Vic’s The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa, Tel. 1758 0000
Tel. 1717 2323 (Bahrain City Centre)
Kosebasi
Trader Vic’s exudes Polynesian flavours through every pore of its being. It just works. From the myriad different vessels used to transport your rum based cocktail between bar and table, to the dark wood and fancy decorations, Trader Vic’s just gets it right. And it’s fun. The glass wall at the back of the bar gives great views of the garden and it is easy to get lost here. Recommended. For more of the same but with VIP Kudos, try Mai Tai. (Free) membership required.
Tel. 1717 2322 (Bahrain City Centre)
Paul Café
Rock Bottom Cafe Ramee International Tel. 1772 7230
Situated at the bottom of a popular street in Juffair, past every conceivable fast food joint, The Rock Bottom Café is just somewhere where people go. It is a lively place that provides everything you need for a great night out: music, room for dancing, a well stocked bar and a good atmosphere with an accomplished live band and great DJ music.
Sherlock Holmes Gulf Hotel Tel. 1771 3000
From the name, it comes as no surprise that the effect being striven for here is that of the quintessential London pub. The pub has recently been completely refurbished and in doing so has gained in comfort and finesse. There are still huge arm chairs and a British styled bar, but there is more light too, meaning that you can actually see who you are talking too. A nice place for a drink at any time of day or night.
Sky Bar The Diplomat Radisson Blu Tel. 1753 1666
The Sky Bar without question has the best views in town. The atmosphere is Bluesy and easy going and from way up here, the world looks so far away and so small that how could anything bother you?
Warbler Baisan International Hotel Tel. 1729 0600
This is one of the biggest bars in Bahrain and also one of the busiest. A great venue for watching sports, especially football, meaning that on weekends it is often filled with British expats, drinking beer and scoffing the excellent burgers whilst biting their fingers as their team triumphs or crashes out at the last.
Wrangler’s Best Western Hotel Tel. 1782 7600
During the day and early evening Wranglers’ dark and empty bar has a charm all its own and it is easy to imagine that you are in small town USA. The food is good and during the day the service is swift. It is at night however that Wranglers comes alive. On weekend nights, the dance floor that looked of an adequate size earlier on, looks tiny in comparison to the number of people bumping and grinding to R’n’B and hip hop.
The Polo Lounge The Palace Hotel Tel. 1772 5000
(The Palace) Pub with wide-screen TV showing European and local football games live till late.
Jawad Business Group Restaurant Locations
Hotel & Resorts Five-Star Hotels
AZADEA GROUP OF RESTAURANTS Butcher Shop and Grill
Tel. 1717 2324 (Bahrain City Centre)
Enigma Windsor Tower Hotel Tel. 1729 7000
Sitting at the bar at the Exchange, you are in a large square room with a stage at one end upon which the band is belting out all your favourite tunes. The thing about the Exchange is that the house band is actually very good and with the relaxed vibe, it makes for a convivial venue, for pre- and postdinner drinks. With its proximity to the restaurant district of Adliya, this is not a bad place at all.
This is your classic hotel bar. Perfectly amenable, certainly comfortable, its downtown location makes it an ideal pre dinner watering hole. Its square bar is peppered with high rotating stools and there are low tables and big wide chairs that are dangerously comfortable. With attentive staff, a good selection of beers and an extensive cocktail menu, this is the perfect hangout for those in search of a sophisticated drink.
Columbus Café
Essentially a pool hall/sports bar, Cosmos is a great place to go and shoot some pool. If you are there on your own, and if they are not too busy, the waitresses will give you a game. But be warned, you will lose. The music is varied and at a comfortable volume. The food is good too but be aware: portions are huge.
The Exchange Ramada Hotel Tel. 1774 2000
So kick back, get comfortable and call for one more for the road.
Tel. 1717 2321 (Bahrain City Centre) Tel. 973 1758 0073 (Seef Mall)
Typhoon Gulf Hotel Tel. 1771 3000
Known to some as ‘the garden’, Typhoon is the perfect mix of relaxation and refinery. With a large decked area backing onto the koi filled pond, and surrounded by palms and plants, sitting in the outside space sometimes feels as though you are in your own garden but with table service. The inside space is also comfortably appointed and both areas are great for enjoying one of the many varied house cocktails.
During the war, the Germans used the Enigma cipher machine to send messages the British could not understand. It was the capture of an Enigma machine that allowed the Boffins at Bletchley Park to decipher the code and start making serious in-roads into the Nazi war machine. And so, in this spirit, Enigma may strike you as something of an anomaly initially but as the drinks flow, you’ll come round to its way of thinking.
An Nada Sheraton Hotel Tel. 1753 3533
The Great Kebab Factory
Hakisushi
Exhibitions Ave.
1731 1511
The Jawad Dome
Seef Mall
1758 1300
Magic Wok
Bahrain Mall
1755 3750
Juffair
1772 7250
Quiznos
Juffair
1782 7014
The Jawad Dome
1769 4105
Manama
1721 2920
Arad
1746 5770
Chili’s
1769 0629
Camilles Sidewalk Café
Diplomatic Area
1753 2684
Juffair
1772 5638
Seef Mall
1758 1221
Diplomatic Area
1753 3808
Salmabad
1714 0106
Juffair
1772 3918
Exhibition Road
1729 6047
Tubli
1778 5184
City Centre
1717 9794
Lulu Hyper Market Riffa
1749 1452
Delifrance The Jawad Dome
1769 3581
DQ Grill & Chill
Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Papa John’s Pizza Juffair
1772 5453
Juffair
3947 9627
Manama
1721 5145
Lulu Hyper Market, Riffa
1749 1731
Seef Mall
1758 1516
Hotel Chocolat
Marina Mall
1725 3010
Bahrain City Centre
Salmaniya
1727 3494
Bahrain Mall
1755 6115
Costa Coffee
Juffair
1781 3529
Patisserie Valerie
Manama
1721 3930
Moda Mall
Justapasta Bahrain Mall
Thai Express 1755 4091
Barsha’a Building, opp. Airport, Muharraq
1751 0182
1733 9509
The Jawad Dome
1769 3595
Tilly’s The Jawad Dome
1769 1358
1717 9723
Al A’ali Mall
1758 2229
Adliya
1774 9299
Yateem Centre
1721 5182
Marina Mall
1723 0109
Bahrain City Centre
1717 9790
Seef Mall Extension
1758 0139
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 123
Listings
Sports, Fitness and Kids Fitness/Aerobics/Spinning
Meditation/Yoga
Al Safir Fitness First The Regency The Diplomat Radisson Blu Curves (Budaiya) Ez Fit Sports Complex Image Spa & Leisure (Sheraton Hotel) The Health Club (Gulf Hotel) Nautilus (Crown Plaza) Sports Club & Spa, Ritz-Carlton Al Gosaibi Gym Ghassan’s Gym (mat and private classes available) La Fontaine Centre World Beat Fitness Centre
Art of Living 3988 8760 Dessange 1771 3999 (Yoga classes offered several times a week) Bahrain Meditation Centre Bahrain 1779 5961 (Wellness Resort) Saturdays and Wednesdays. 7pm to 8.30pm, Mixed yoga classes. Sundays and Tuesdays (Ladies Only), 10am to12pm Bayoga Centre 1772 5027 Daily yoga classes, relaxing yoga and meditation for beginners and advanced students. World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 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
Bowling Al Bander Hotel & Resort Awali Bowling Centre Bahrain Bowling Association Bapco Club Funland Centre
Cricket EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Rugby Football Club SLC Grounds, Riffa Thursdays, Training 3pm to 5pm
1769 2378 1769 5809 1727 6134
Bahrain Cycling Association
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 Club British Club Dilmun Club EZ Fit Sports Complex
1727 7712 1734 2182 1769 5809 1772 8245 1769 2986 1769 2378
Golf Awali Club Royal Golf Club
Go Karting/Racing Rally Town BIC Silver go-Karts (Tubli) Gulf Speed One (Seef)
1753 1165 1745 0000 1778 0011 3944 4137
Ice Skating Funland Centre
1769 5809
Bahrain Snooker Association Jimmy’s Snooker and Billiards Club
1782 5301 1771 6147
Squash Bahrain Badminton and Squash Federation The Country Club Al Bander Resort Nautilus (Crowne Plaza) The Diplomat Radisson Blu
1729 2662 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
Swimming Lessons British Club Dilmun Club Ritz Carlton Sports Club The Diplomat Radisson Blu
1772 8245 1769 2986 1758 0001 1753 1666
Watersports 1775 6770 1775 0777
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
1731 0252 1721 2700 1729 1527 1783 6078 1770 0677 1727 1780 1770 1201 1768 0867 1769 0926
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
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
Football Arsenal Soccer School
124 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
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
Music Lessons Bahrain Music Institute Kindermusik Bahrain Room to Rock
1772 1999 1761 3144/3925 6904 1761 1785
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, Bahrain Rugby Club 3932 6349 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
1756 1615
Al Areen Wildlife Park Adhari Park
1783 6116 1740 7300
North of the Shaikh Isa Bin Sulman Highway Fun for all ages, includes a sports camp, groovy town, discovery village and indoor entertainment Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports
Chaoss
1759 2096 Swimming, gymnastics, dance and Taekwon-Do for children and teenagers.
Dolphin Park Corniche next to Marina Club One hour marine mammal show.
1729 3109
Funland
1729 2313
Corniche next to Marina Club Bowling and Ice Skating everyday.
Hawar Island
1731 1770 Day trips to Hawar Island, boats depart from Ad Dur Jetty at 10am daily
Kid’s Kingdom Corniche, next to the Hawar reservation office A small outdoor playground. Good fun for young children. Open until late.
Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park
1784 5100
Open daily except Tuesday, 10am to 6pm (Thursday til 5pm)
Magic Island Seef Mall 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
Tennis 1729 2313
3600 1777
My Gym, www.my-gym.com EZ Fit World Beat Fitness Centre Chaoss
Horse Riding
Cycling
Film-making workshops
Kids Gyms/Gymnastics
Snooker 1770 1201 1775 3666 1782 2077 1775 3666 1729 2313
Drama
American Express Bahrain Rugby Football Thursdays 5pm for girls. 1769 5809 Riffa Views Netball League 3630 6946
American Express Bahrain Rugby Football
Where To Go
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
Netball
Rugby 1769 2378 1774 1010
Creative Kids Art Classes
(Tel. 1721 1717) is located in the gate to Manama’s souq, Bab al-Bahrain, on the ground floor next to the tourist shop, Times: 8am to 12 and 4.30pm to 6pm, closed on Friday.
Currency The Bahrain Dinar (BD) is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of US$1=BD0.377 - in other words a dinar is worth about $2.65. It is a convertible currency with no restrictions on its import or export. Tip: the Saudi Riyal (SR) is also accepted
in shops for purchases at an exchange rate of BD1=SR10 (less in hotels) and you may be given Saudi money as change.
Business Hours Friday is the Islamic equivalent of the Christian Sunday. The weekend falls on a Friday and a Saturday. Most shopping malls and commercial centres are generally open seven days a week.
Listings Schools American Curriculum
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
Special Needs
Al Mahd Day Boarding Tel. 1779 2422 British School Tel. 1761 0920 Budaiya Preschool Tel. 1779 1491 Dilmun School (elementary) Tel. 1771 3483 KG Kids Tel. 1766 3556 St Christopher’s School Tel. 1778 8108 Sacred Heart School Tel. 1768 4367 Talent International and The Infant School Tel. 1725 2346/1777 0078
Disabled Sports Federation Tel. 1778 9191 Hope Institute Tel. 1768 0815/1768 0500 R.I.A. Institute Tel. 1771 6871 The Children’s Academy Tel. 1761 3234 UCO Parents Care Centre Tel. 1767 7717
Art Societies
Charitable Organisations
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!
Al Dana Nursery Tel. 1725 3541 Dana Pre-school, Riffa Tel. 1777 0180 Lilliput, Budaiya Tel. 1769 4947
Confidential Tip: BD1 per five minutes in the cab is the most you should pay for an un-metered journey. If traveling from the airport or busy taxi rank, add BD2/after midnight add BD1 to the total e.g. a 10 minute drive from the airport after midnight should cost you no more than BD5 (BD2 + BD2 + BD1= BD5). Taxis do use meters and companies may use similar rates.
Avoiding Offence
Generally speaking, very short skirts and tight midriff tops are frowned upon in public, although acceptable by hotel pools, in private clubs and on the beach. If visiting a mosque, cover the body well (women should ensure that arms and legs and hair are fully covered). Shoes should always be left outside the entrance.
Essential Info 24-Hour Pharmacies Jaffer Pharmacy Tel. 1729 1039 18, Tarfah bin Al Abid Avenue, Manama 319 Nasser Pharmacy Tel. 1774 0900 63-B, Qadisiya Avenue, Manama 332 Awal Pharmacy Tel. 1777 2023 30 Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Avenue, East Riffa 901 (Check the Gulf Daily News for other chemists.)
Courier & Express Delivery Most international express parcel and courier companies have offices in Manama, and include:
Tel. 1734 9199 Tel. 1772 3636
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:
Tel. 1753 4100
Tel. 1723 1156
Tel. 1771 3181
Embassies & Consulates Embassies generally open from 8am to 1pm from Saturday to Wednesday and some Arab embassies also open on Thursday. Many embassies have a number of staff on call outside these hours for emergencies. Algeria 1771 3669 Bangladesh 1771 4717 China 1772 3800 Denmark 1772 5119 Egypt 1772 0005 France 1729 8660 Germany 1753 0210 India 1771 2785 Iran 1772 2400 Iraq 1774 1472 Italy 1725 2424 Japan 1771 6565 Jordan 1729 1109 Kuwait 1753 4040
Lebanon 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 Air India 1729 6444 British Airways 1758 7777 Cathay Pacific 1722 6226 Emirates 1758 8700 Gulf Air 1733 5777 Jet Airways 1722 7114 KLM 1722 9747 Kuwait Airways 1722 3300 Lufthansa 1782 8762 PIA 1722 3808 Qatar Airways 1721 2202 Saudi Airlines 1721 1550
999 1725 3447 1779 0025 1781 2000 1782 8282 1728 8888
Telephone Helpline Intl. calls via operator Directory enquiries Directory enquiries - Intl. Other phone enquiries Speaking clock
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
“Help” 24-Hour Helpline for Distressed Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous
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
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 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
Bahrain Fort, Manama, Bahrain
3960 7219 3968 7190
Darts Balouch Club Sri Lanka Club
1729 2231 1729 7878
Chess Bahrain Chess Federation
151 181 191 100 140
3987 3357 1753 0020 1753 3558
1724 2641 1727 1157
Bridge Bahrain Bridge Club Bahrain Bridge Committee
Hospitals & Clinics Emergency American Mission Hospital (AMH) Saar Medical & Dental Clinic (AMH) Bahrain Specialist Hospital Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital Salmaniya Hospital
Scrabble Bahrain Scrabble League Bahrain Kannada Sangha Saturdays. 6.30pm.
Elham 1771 7441 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art 1723 0123 The Bahrain Contemporary Art Society 1772 8046
Things to know
Nurseries and Creches
Animal Welfare Al Ahli Animal Centre 1762 2102/3965 4343 BSPCA 1759 1231 Delmon Kennels & Training 3971 7609 Jassim Veterinary Centre (Sugaya) 1723 1242 Modern Animal Health Centre (Budaiya) 1759 0908 Nonie Coutts Surgery, (Manama and Saar) 1724 5515 Pet Arabia 1759 2288 Saar Kennels 1779 2064
1725 2133
Photography Awali Photo Society Bahrain Arts Society
1776 4468 3966 7751
Photography by Gabby Canonizado
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 125
Funny News
Just For
Laughs You Used the Wrong Mug Consumers are still unsure of whether
Muscle Car Faces Muscles The fed up owner of a Lamborghini Gallardo
appointed demolition men to smash his car after his mechanic failed to fix the engine several times. The USD750,000 car bought by Chinese Han Nan in October, returned it to the dealership in November but came back even worse than before. After several arguments and letdowns, Nan gave up and decided to publicly smash the car. The public spectacle took place on World Consumer Rights Day in Qingdao, China and the public were offered a go with the sledgehammers too.
or not a souvenir mug produced in China for the Royal Wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton was meant to be a joke. The mug is advertised as a commemoration of the union between “HRH Prince William and his stunning lady bride to be, Miss Kate Middleton” but the image beside Kate is of Prince Harry! Quandong Enterprises also lists the image of Prince Harry as Prince William. Whether a marketing gimmick or genuine mistake, Bahrain Confidential thinks it’s pretty amusing! Muscle Car Faces Muscles
Houston, They Have a Problem A man in Folkestone, England, had We have to stop cutting down trees! This is getting serious!
126 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
his stereo and CDs confiscated after neighbours complained he played ‘I’m Every Woman’ too much. The Whitney Houston fan kept his neighbours up all night with the song blaring out of his stereo. His small limited collection of CDs also included 50 Cent’s album. “‘Unfortunately, the man concerned didn’t have an extensive CD collection so it was the same few songs, from gangsta rap to girly love songs like ‘I’m Every Woman’, over and over again,’ said Liam Flannery, an environmental health officer. “We’ve got his stuff now and the warrant’s open, so if he buys any more we’ll take that too.”
Lifestyle
Horoscopes Discover your Native American Astrology Symbol
Renowned British astrologist Astra Henley reveals the secrets of the stars exclusively to Bahrain Confidential’s readers every month.
Aries - Falcon
21 March - 19 April
Romance flows in your life this month. During the last half of the month there could be advancements on the job or you could take major steps to improve your health. On the last day of the month, a matter regarding where you live could and should be finalised. Clear and sound thinking make whatever is occurring to come together in a very solid and beneficial way.
Taurus - Beaver 20 April - 20 May
The home front is looking so right this month. Any improvements you have made or are working on pay big dividends during the first half of this month. The last half of the month has you focused on your romantic life. There will be many opportunities at this time with people you would not normally find yourself attracted to. Still, take the risk and experience something new and different.
Gemini - Deer
21 May - 20 June
This will be an interesting month for you as the emphasis is on communication. There could be a flurry of information coming your way but Mercury is retrograde for the month so triple- check that information before releasing it to others. The last two weeks of the month will find you drawn to your home.
Cancer - Woodpecker 21 June - 21 July
Your money is highlighted this month. It’s all good news, though. You may be feeling the effects of a budget put into place months ago, thus resulting in a surplus of funds. After the middle of the month, communication picks up in your life but try not to take anything at face value, but check out it’s validity before you accept it. On the last day of the month you could receive a very meaningful insight about yourself.
Leo - Salmon
22 July - 21 August
You’re bubbling with energy this month with the Sun and Mars in your 1st house of self. The energy last for three weeks and it’s a good time to get out there and do the projects you’ve been thinking about. During the month, there could be confusing signals and signs coming from your Committed Other. Postpone taking action on joint money matters until after the 11th.
Virgo - Brown Bear
22 August - 21 September
April finds you dealing with a behind the scenes well spring of energy that must be dealt with or there could be consequences to your health that would be hard to diagnose. Seek ways to alleviate the pressure. Friends could provide you with some solid moneymaking opportunities this month. Be patient and hear them out. You could reap some handsome profits and do it quickly.
Libra - Crow
22 September - 22 October
Activities with friends sweep you through this April with fun at every turn. Short trips during the first two weeks could find you in lovely surroundings. If you must travel, make sure you triple check everything before you leave with Mercury retrograde all month. The last half of April could provide you with some surprises on the job and regarding your career. Some will be very visible and some will come from behind the scenes. Career changes made on the last day of the month will be the most beneficial and long lasting.
Scorpio - Snake
23 October - 22 November
Your career is full of activity and excitement this month. You may be thrust into the limelight over your accomplishments. Traveling for business or transactions at a great distance work best on the 17th. Double-check all the figures before agreeing to anything though. If you must travel this month, wait until the last day when aspects favour a journey filled with peace, smooth sailing and quiet joy.
Sagittarius - Owl
23 November - 21 December
Now is a good time to consider increasing your knowledge at the higher education level. Perhaps embarking on a new path of enlightenment or just a reading really thick book. Travel is favoured as well, but with Mercury retrograde it’s advisable to triplecheck your plans, schedules, and itinerary for mishaps that could catch you by surprise.
Diamond - April’s Birthstone
Capricorn - Goose
22 December - 19 January
Joint money, taxes and insurance will hold your attention for the first two weeks of the month. Good news could be coming your way, just when you needed it the most. The last half of the month finds you in pleasant company and focusing on your committed other. Solid ground may be gained with this person if you remember to listen closely to what they are saying.
Aquarius - Otter
20 January - 18 February Personal committed relationships dominate your life for the first three weeks of April. Renewed romance and enthusiasm could find its way back into this area. If you’re not in a committed relationship look for happiness to come through your business partners. Remember to acknowledge them for all they do in your behalf.
Pisces - Wolf
19 February - 20 March
Your job scene is hopping with action and fun this month. You could get a raise or a promotion, or both. Your health should be in tip-top shape, and during the last half of the month your focus shifts to partnerships and serious relationships. If you’re planning on popping the question, wait until the last day of the month to do so. At that time the planets line up to really cement anything started on that day.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 127
Opinion
Personal views from KSA
Crossing
Rubicon? The
by Mohammed T. Al Rasheed deusvolt@hotmail.com
A
The wave of unrest spreading across the region is enough to inspire everyone to form their own opinions. Mohammed Al Rasheed shares some of his thoughts …
t the risk of being daft, I will state the obvious: things are moving fast and furious around us – dangerously so. No one is left untouched; at least in taking positions and forming opinions. This is not a political magazine, nor is it the place to pontificate one position or another. And yet, one cannot go on writing as if nothing is happening out there. While trying to entertain and at times perhaps inform, this column has had its clear positions one way or another. Since this is a monthly magazine, the writer tries to stay out of the topical as much as possible. The column is written at least three weeks before publication and this is obviously dangerous for any topical approach. God only knows what had come to pass when you read this in April. So, shall I review a book or tell you a story about times past? No. Instead, I will try to say something that might make people reflect. That is harder than telling a story! Observation and judgment are two different things. Observation needs sympathy in the sense that one is at least interested in what is being observed. Judgment, historical or otherwise, needs objectivity if it is to make any sense. He who declared that anyone without sins should cast the first stone has made the third kind of judgment null and void. The observer should understand that what is going on in the Arab world is surprising only in the time it took for it to form. Centuries of misrule and depravation could only lead to what we see. What is surprising is how slow the rulers came to understand this, especially in this day and age of unstoppable communications. I will try to explain academically why the people were slow to rise and the
128 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
rulers never contemplated preemptive reforms. This is the Middle East, home of monotheism and that means one thing: One God, One Ruler – in the name of that God. This equation produced the citizen who feared God and ‘His Ruler’, and the Ruler who drank himself silly and then showed up for Friday prayers the next day. Simple, but it worked for centuries. Praise is directed to one God, and that tags on to ‘His’ ruler. Any mishap therefore, is the work of fate. The Ruler escapes blame by saying that the floods, for example, are a divine manifestation. This corrosion of any dividing line between the divine and temporal became
that we will adore you like the Magi did you know who, but you have to provide us with food, shelter, education and jobs. Notice that we have not mentioned the bigger issues of freedom et al. The money accumulated and the people became poorer. I always believed that extreme poverty and extreme riches are the two conditions necessary for revolution. This Arab revolt, if so it is, is a product of extreme riches. Egypt, for all its woes, is a rich country in its own way. Libya and our area are a given on that score. Gold, when hoarded, can blind, burn, and betray. What in the name of God is the worth of countless billions when you are over eighty years old? There is only one answer: They all have turned Pharaohs thinking that they will be buried in it or take it with them. Mind you, Pharaoh was the first to claim divinity. So six thousand years of human evolution and knowledge managed to do nothing to our rulers. Strange, I might add, since most of them have PhDs and/or military training at exulted academies around the world. It will do little to the reputation of that infamously exulted university in England to ‘investigate’ the authenticity of Gadhafi’s son’s thesis that prompted them to declare him a Doctor of Philosophy no less. The damage is done. Worse, the writing is on the wall and hardly needs investigating. I only warn of more to come on that front. I know because I have seen a lot of it personally. I hope not to have offended in this précis of a very long and complicated subject. My only hope is that it will make people on both sides think before acting. I know that for some the Rubicon has been crossed and there is no return. For others, I just hope sanity and a bit of true faith might lead to better times without bloodshed n
“I always believed that extreme poverty and extreme riches are the two conditions necessary for revolution. This Arab revolt, if so it is, is a product of extreme riches.” so blurred that it became difficult to distinguish one from the other. The citizen could have lived with this for another century or two except for two essentials that were historically inevitable. One was the rise of communications that allowed the diffusion of knowledge to wider swathes of society, and the other (more tragic) is the tendency of the rulers to believe their lie. They became demi-gods in their own right and acted likewise. People finally realised that their relationship with God Himself is contractual in essence: You behave, you get rewarded; you misbehave you get punished. The day that mantra was applied to the rulers, the whole thing erupted. The rulers never fulfilled their part of the contract that stated
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M M yP y a D ck es a ig ge n , Design your package Now, for the ďŹ rst time in Bahrain you can design your own mobile package. Simply mix and match from voice, SMS and data to suit your lifestyle. Design your package online or visit your nearest Batelco shop. Terms & Conditions Apply
batelco.com
d e s s i M What’s On
e b o t t o N
114 - 119 s e g a p o t htlife turn g i n & o r t s events, ga e r o m r o F
Felda Cut & Style
Health House
Soothe those aches and pains at the Health House, open all week from 10am to 8pm. Health House is a holistic healing centre which focuses on cleansing and strengthening the body, mind and spirit. Located on Budaiya Highway, opposite Alosra Supermarket. For enquiries, Tel. +973 1741 0055 or +973 1769 3111.
Bahrain City Centre
Mall aficionados will be glad to know that Bahrain City Centre resumes its normal opening hours from 10am to 10pm daily, with Carrefour open from 8am to 10pm. Do your usual shopping whilst children enjoy some games at the main gallery, ground floor. For further enquiries, Tel. +973 1717 7771.
Seef Mall
The newly refurbished Seef Mall makes shopping experience a whole lot better. In addition to the play area, the newly installed Kids Zone now offers more fun and interactive games and activities for children where they can enjoy face painting, henna painting, balloon making, airbrush tattooing and hair braiding. The refurbishment also means shoppers can now enjoy updated facilities and amenities such as Wi-Fi hotspots, modern designs and furnishings and the all-new Seef Express indoor trains for your convenience, and most importantly fun! Seef Mall is open from 10am to 10pm. For enquiries, Tel. +973 1758 1111. ‘Urban Garden’ by Arthur D’ Souza
14 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
For your make-up or hairstyling needs, Felda Cut & Style in Manama is open from 9am until 5pm, seven days a week. For inquiries or to book an appointment Tel. +973 1722 4077, +973 3914 8203, +973 3668 0816 or email: felda@mail.com or feldacutandstyle@yahoo.com.
18th May
‘Photo Synthesis’ Exhibit by Arthur D’ Souza
Opening at La Maison Jamsheer in Muharraq, ‘Photo Synthesis’ is a new collection by Goan artist Arthur D’ Souza, in which photographic images are transformed into multidimensional artworks that transcend photography and are not confined to any particular genre. Similar to the process of photosynthesis, in which green plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into nutrients and life, Arthur turns paper and photographs into energetic artworks that provide nourishment for mind and soul. This is an experimental, interactive and entertaining body of work that’s well worth a look-in. For more information contact +973 3962 3381 or email arthurthemonk@gmail.com or visit www.arthurdsouza.com
‘Street Angel’ by Arthur D’ Souza
Ongoing
Lifestyle
Hoss Intropia
Hoss Intropia has announced Helena Christensen as the face of, and for the first time photographer behind the Spring/Summer 2011 collections. The Spring/ Summer 2011 collection combines romanticism with minimalism; matching Helena’s look and personality - the girl-next-door with a tough, polished edge.
Hoss Intropia
THE One
Celebs Wearing Louis Vuitton
Julia Restoin Roitfeld, Elisa Sednaoui and Raquel Zimmerman dressed in Louis Vuitton at the amfAR New York Gala dinner to kick off Fall 2011 Fashion Week at Cipriani Wall Street on 9th February in New York. In 2011, amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, commemorates its 25th year at the forefront of the global struggle against HIV/AIDS.
THE One Spring Collection Raquel Zimmerman
THE One’s Spring 2011 collection, features a host of deco themes ranging from all white and monochrome to nude hues and browns; plus one of the hottest themes this season, the Country Estate look. Inspired by the English Colonial era, it captures the spirit of understated luxury with comfort, practicality and relaxed elegance at its heart. THE One is located in Al A’ali Shopping Complex.
BC’s Hot List
Elisa Sednaoui
What we think is hot in the fashion world.
Vivienne Westwood and Christina Hendricks
‘Mad Men’ star Christina Hendricks has become the face of Vivienne Westwood’s ‘Get a Life’ Palladium Jewellery Collection. In conjunction with The Palladium Alliance International, Westwood created a line of environmentally-conscious pieces made entirely of the lightweight precious metal. JZ Couture
Christina Hendricks
Saks Fifth Avenue Bags
Saks Fifth Avenue’s extensive range of handbag brands including Rebecca Minkoff, Viktor & Rolf, Alexander McQueen, Yves Saint Laurent and Be & D, sees eight vibrant new brands to be introduced to the Bahrain City Centre branch: Anya Hindmarch, Kotur, Lanvin, Milly, See by Chloe, Z Spoke, Sonia by Sonia Rykiel and Stella McCartney. Saks Fifth Avenue is located in Bahrain City Centre.
JZ Couture
Saks Fifth Avenue Bags
16 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
East meets West with the JZ Couture brand formulated by Julia Bruchwitz and Zara Hassan. Exotic kaftans and flowing feminine dresses of Asian and Arabic vibes, are reflective of the pair’s worldly experiences and travels, and designed for any woman seeking an aspect of unique upper class within her wardrobe. www.jzcouture.com
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Living
New in
Town BC lets you in the who, what, why and where!
Burger Lounge
Burger Lounge was created with the sole purpose of providing healthy eating and a menu that serves to satisfy salad lovers, health conscious diners and those hankering for a great hamburger alike. Burger Lounge is located at Amwaj Lagoon.
Gulf Air Falcon Gold Lounge
Gulf Air Falcon Gold Lounge
Gulf Air officially opened its new, premium ‘Falcon Gold’ lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 4 at the beginning of last month. The expansive, 6,500-square foot Falcon Gold lounge - one of the largest in the terminal - seamlessly combines contemporary design and architecture with Arabic influences. The central area features a bar surrounded by well laid-out business, dining, lounging facilities, TV areas and private rooms. There is also a buffet with a halal menu, a prayer room, along with wash rooms and showers.
Vincci
Vincci
Vincci, the popular Malaysian shoe brand, has arrived in Bahrain. Two stores have opened in Bahrain City Centre and Ramli Mall, both showcasing the modern new store concept. Founded in 1986, the store carries four key collections: Party, Formal, Casual and Best Buy.
Burger Lounge
Elite Crystal Hotel
The latest “All Suite Premiere Hotel,” from the Elite Hospitality Group, the Elite Crystal Hotel to be located in Juffair, is scheduled to open next month. This hotel is an all-suite hotel that will offer 120 suites, all with great views, huge bedrooms, a separate living area, self-contained kitchens, various food and beverage outlets, a health and fitness section, 500-square metre conference and banqueting facilities for up to 400 people, valet parking, airport transfers, babysitting services, foreign currency exchange and Laundromats.
At the opening
Elite Crystal Hotel
Royal Bahrain Hospital
The Royal Bahrain Hospital (RBH) officially opened its doors to patients in January 2011. RBH, located in the Salmaniya area, is a 65-bed multispecialty hospital part of a group which is expanding healthcare operations throughout the GCC. The team of highly qualified doctors use the latest technology for effective diagnosis and treatment. The new hospital is in a modern four-storey building and covers an area of 70,000 square feet. RBH provides a variety of premium services at reasonable prices such as in-patient accommodation, out-patient clinics, suites and deluxe rooms, food and beverage and cafeteria services, a gift shop, a pharmacy and ambulance and transport services. Tel. +973 1724 6800.
18 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
RALPH
Living KLUB360°
KLUB360°
Situated on the ground level of the new Elite Crystal hotel in Juffair, KLUB360º will be opening inext month and is aimed at the discerning, sophisticated customer who likes to relax, socialise and party in a stunning, luxurious and uniquely captivating environment. Tel. +973 1736 0300.
Communal Offices
Jim’s Business Lunch
Jim’s Restaurant has now started a business lunch throughout the week. This offers you a set menu and drink for BD10 per person. There is an inside restaurant, enclosed outside garden area and private restaurant upstairs with projectors and big screens for presentations. Tel. +973 1771 0654.
H3Sixty
Located on the eleventh floor of the Bahrain Financial Harbour, H3Sixty features sixty contemporary furnished offices with five different office plans ranging in luxury from Platinum to Silver. Each office offers everything from the appliancerich espresso bars to wonderful revival suites to professional and friendly staff, such as a full-time receptionist and an IT specialist. Tel. +973 1653 6093.
Yellow Moon
At the inauguration
This flagship Paper Moon store is the largest to be opened in Bahrain and carries the company’s re-branded look. Paper Moon is in Bahrain City Centre, Level 2. Yellow Moon
Turkish Airlines to Los Angeles
Turkish Airlines launched its inaugural flight from Istanbul to Los Angeles, the airline’s fourth destination in the United States, on 3rd March. Non-stop flights are scheduled to operate four times per week with the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. To celebrate the new route, Turkish Airlines is offering an exceptionally discounted rate on all flights from Los Angeles to Istanbul purchased on or before 30th April 2011. Round-trip flights are available for USD752 including all taxes and fees. For more information call Tel. +973 1751 6100.
20 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Sheer Luxury
Versace Versace has launched a new ‘January J’ sunglasses collection, in reference to the actress January Jones. The inspiration comes from the glamourous fifties and sixties fashion that Jones wears in TV series Mad Men. Versace is located in Moda Mall.
Versace
I
Stephen Webster
Kara Ross
Stephen Webster ‘Astro Ball Pendants’ created in collaboration by Stephen Webster and Swarovski reflect each of the Zodiac signs using sparkling jewels and quirky designs. Stephen Webster is available at Azal in Al A’ali Mall.
Kara Ross The new Spring/Summer collection showcases an accessories range defined with soft pastel stones. Kara Ross is located at Saks Fifth Avenue in Bahrain City Centre.
Lanvin
Want That!
Lanvin This season’s Lanvin shoe collection is defined by the heel. Stilettos are taken to new and narrower extremes, while the wedges in transparent plexiglas reveals its structure of nails and clips. Lanvin is located at Saks Fifth Avenue in Bahrain City Centre.
Bvlgari The Leoni line presents a natural canvas handbag with black or brown leather trim and blue or mimosa yellow braided leather handles. The distinctive lion emblem is larger and comes in a new ivory resin. Bvlgari is located in Al A’ali Mall. Bvlgari
22 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Kara Ross
If you want to be part of our online community and receive information every two weeks about the latest happenings in Bahrain including beauty, fashion, nightlife, events and more, email
info@ArabianMagazines.com to receive our bi-monthly newsletter.
ConfidentialArabia.com
Sheer Luxury
For
Bvlgari Men The belt line from the men’s Spring/Summer 2011 accessories collection is casual and youthful. Belts are made of elastic rubber yarn, and have a metal buckle engraved with the double ‘Bvlgari Bvlgari’ logo. Bvlgari is located in Al A’ali Mall.
HIM Bvlgari Men
Corum The new Corum Caliber C0313 comes with an automatic linear-winding baguette movement. Its mainplate and bridges are made from 18kt gold and adorned with a new vertical guilloché motif. Corum is located in Asia Jewellers.
Corum
24 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Dolce & Gabbana The new Dolce & Gabbana eyewear collection for Spring/ Summer 2011 sees the classic aviator getting a makeover with more balanced proportions creating the perfect equilibrium between elegance and impulse. Dolce & Gabanna is located in Moda Mall.
Dolce & Gabbana
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The Language of Photography This month Bonhams will hold its first dedicated photographs sale in Dubai alongside its annual top Orientalist Art auction. Intrigued, BC spoke to Jocelyn Phillips, Head of the Photography Department at Bonhams, London.
26 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
“Photographs are important for many different reasons - for their historical significance, artistic merit, the skill of the printmaker.”
Barry Lategan, ‘Twiggy’, edtimated USD7000 - 9000
Art Space
Art Space Lillian Bassman, ‘Carmen Having Tea’, estimated USD5000 - 6000
“We always aim to be open minded to suggestions and we are happy to look at all works shown to us. In short there is no standard way to put a sale together.”
W
hat are your expectations for this month’s auction in Dubai? Bonhams is excited to be presenting the first dedicated auction of photographs in Dubai on the 13th April. The sale comprises an impressive selection of work by Middle Eastern and international artists at a range of estimates, which will appeal to both new and more established collectors, so we are expecting good interest and strong bidding on the day. What will be featured in the auction? A range of imagery that will showcase the breadth of photographic practice from the beginnings of the medium in the 19th century through to the present day. The sale begins with a portrait of Charles Darwin by Julia Margaret Cameron from 1868 (estimate USD4,000-5,000). Early
photography is also represented by two beautiful images by Herbert Ponting from Scott’s last expedition to the Antarctic. A strong section of fashion imagery follows by renowned photographers Horst P. Horst, Norman Parkinson and Lillian Bassman (estimates from USD5,000). Exceptional images of India, Kuwait, Algeria and Brazil by documentary photographer Sebastiao Salgado (estimates start at USD6,000) also feature. Later highlights include the beautiful photo collage ‘Cultivate Your Garden’ by Lebanese artist Camille Zakharia (USD30,000 - 40,000), the enchanting ‘Goddess of the Desert’ by the Iraqi Halim Al-Karim (USD35,000 - 40,000), and the limited edition, large format ‘Mystified’ by Shirin Neshat (USD35,000 - 45,000). What is your favourite piece here? The very elegant study of the Library of St Florian Abbey in Austria by Turkish artist Ahmet Ertug (estimate USD35,000-40,000).
What do you believe the most important piece is? Photographs are important for many different reasons - for their historical significance, artistic merit, the skill of the printmaker. I don’t think I could select any one piece as the ‘most’ important. Where did these photographs of Coco Chanel and Twiggy come from? Normally, as protocol, we don’t disclose the name of the Consignor. Works come from a variety of locations and people. Often, existing clients get in touch and want to consign works from their collections either to make way for more works or to raise funds for new acquisitions. We also consign a good number of works from galleries and dealers who have works on the secondary market or who represent artists who they feel might sit well within the sale. We always aim to be open minded to suggestions and we are happy to look at all works shown to us. In short there is no standard way to put a sale together, it happens organically,
Camille Zakharia, ‘Cultivate Your Garden, 1998’, estimate USD30,000 - 40,000 April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 27
Art Space through e-blasts inviting people to consign, phone calls, word of mouth and trips to some far-flung places! Can you tell us a bit more about these photographs? These images were taken by two key names in the world of fashion imagery, Horst P. Horst and Barry Lategan. Lategan can be credited as the photographer who helped launch Twiggy’s career in the 1960s. He took the first photographs of the then school girl - the images were used by the Daily Express in the UK, and the rest is history. The Horst is one of his most elegant images of Coco Chanel, who sat for him several times in his career. Can you tell us more about Camille Zakharia’s seven-part photo collage? Zakharia is a Lebanese artist who has moved to Bahrain. His work explores this transition, examining themes of identity, displacement and exile. His collage work is formed from the many different photographs of people and places taken during his journey. They are cut up and reformed in delicate and painstaking detail. It is a very impressive work, striking when viewed at a distance yet also inviting close examination. What do you love about your job? The extraordinary works of art that I get to see and handle on a daily basis; the many different places I have travelled to with my job; the incredible range of specialist knowledge and passion for different subjects that I see in my colleagues at the auction house as well as in the collectors and gallery owners that I meet. What do you love about photography? Its adaptability, its accessibility, the way in which it is a language that artists can use to explore such a wealth of ideas and themes.
Shirin Neshat, ‘Mystified’, estimated USD35,000 - 45,000
“I love the incredible range of specialist knowledge and passion for different subjects that I see in my colleagues at the auction house as well as in the collectors and gallery owners that I meet.” Why is photography important? Photography is central to contemporary visual culture. Recent generations have grown up with photography as the most significant form of representation in many fields - advertising, fashion, journalism, the list goes on. We encounter photographic images hundreds of times a day and in this way they have become part of our visual vocabulary.
What has been your favourite exhibition to be involved in? The selling exhibition of David Bailey’s iconic photographs from the 1960s, which we held at Bonhams in London in MarchApril 2010. We worked directly with Bailey and his studio - a fascinating experience For more information visit www.bonhams.com
Where did you work previously? At Sotheby’s in London as a specialist in the Photographs department for five years. Why did you move to Bonhams? I was asked to set up the Photography Department at Bonhams in London - it was exciting to be offered the opportunity to build something from scratch and direct its development.
Jocelyn Phillips Head of Photography Department, Bonhams
28 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Is the Middle East region important for Bonhams and photography in general? Of course. The market for contemporary photography in the Middle East has been growing in strength for several years and collectors are now interested to explore what the medium has to offer on an international level. This is what Bonhams can offer and it is an exciting development for us, bringing a new audience to our auctions.
Horst P. Horst, ‘Coco Chanel’, estimated USD6000 - 8000
LAUREN Blue Label
BAHRAIN CITY CENTER, 1ST FLOOR MANAMA
R ALPHL AUR EN.COM
R A LPHL AU R EN.COM
Celebrity
Chopard Stars Shine in
The famous jewellery brand has partnered with Sir Elton John for the 19th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Oscar Viewing Party. Many stars were seen wearing Chopard at the event: Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott
Sharon Osbourne and Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele
Elton John and David Furnish Chopard is available at Moda Mall.
30 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Jamie Foxx Sharon and Kelly Osbourne
Budget Car and Van Rental offer a wide range of cars, with a choice of sizes and styles to suit your leisure or corporate car hire requirements.
Call us and get going. Main Office Airport Office
-
Tel: +973 17534100 Tel: +973 17321268
Fax: Fax:
+973 17535402 +973 17321315
Email / Website -
Almoayyed Tower Sitra
reservations@fakhro.com
-
Tel: +973 17564680 Tel: +973 17735900
www.budgetbahrain.com
Fax: Fax:
+973 17564633 +973 17735888
Photography
Let’s Learn from
12.. 3.
The Law Of The Wild:
kill only when you are hungry.
Photographer Michel Denis-Huot, who captured these amazing pictures on safari in Kenya ‘s Masai Mara in October last year, said he was astounded by what he saw:
“These three brothers (cheetahs) have been living together since they left their mother at about 18 months old,” he said. “On the morning we saw them, they seemed not to be hungry, walking quickly but stopping sometimes to play together. At one point, they met a group of impala who ran away. But one youngster was not quick enough and the brothers caught it easily.”
These extraordinary scenes followed.
32 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
4.
They let her go.
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Technology
New
Market In The
Here BC tries to keep up with the ever-changing, always advancing world.
Your Home Needs a Doctor
Recently, indoor biological pollutants have become a growing public health concern in the region. The Samsung Virus Doctor allows consumers a peace of mind to enjoy healthy and clean air indoors by eliminating various airborne diseases such as common cold and influenza A viruses, Influenza A, subtype H1N1 and even SARS. For children and adults with allergies, it removes common home allergens such as dust mites and microorganisms. The device also protects the skin by neutralising OH radical which is one of the causes of skin-aging. www.samsung.com
Mövenpick Implements iPads
iPads have been introduced at the Mövenpick Hotels and Resort’s Middle Eastern hotels. Currently iPads are being used by front-ofhouse guest relations and concierge teams to help with facilitating requests such as restaurant enquiries, bookings and services. The Mövenpick Hotel in Bahrain will soon be giving iPads to guests to guide them to different locations and provide information on dining spots. www.moevenpick-hotels.com
Mövenpick Implements iPads
Online Tutus
VIVA Broadband at Home
VIVA Bahrain launched its high speed home broadband devices, allowing all current and new customers to use internet services at home for numerous users. The devices are now available at all VIVA branches where they can be paired for free with some new broadband packages or purchased for immediate use by current subscribers with its easy installation settings. Visit www.viva.com.bh for more information.
34 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Dance Shop UAE has launched their new online store that provides budding ballerinas throughout the Emirates with tutus, ballet shoes and ballet accessories at extremely competitive prices. The shop brings brand name dancewear to the region at the same price you would pay for it abroad. Visit www.danceshopuae.com for more information.
Internet
Batelco Delivers
Best
Broadband Experience
Batelco have introduced higher speeds, more usage and lower prices.
B
atelco offers customers a wide choice of broadband packages designed to suit all usage and budget requirements. In February, all Batelco’s consumer broadband customers received automatic upgrades to benefit from a combination of faster speeds, higher threshold limits and lower prices. Then, last month, Batelco introduced a new 1MB, BD12 package to its line to bring the number of consumer broadband packages offered by Batelco to eight. This new package fits neatly between Batelco’s entry level BD10/640kbps/2GB package and the BD15/1Mbps/ 8GB
package and delivers a ‘full throttle’ broadband experience at the low price of BD12 only!
“This makes it arguably the best choice for high usage and professional users due to its stability and efficiency.” Batelco’s broadband comes with many added benefits. For instance, no minimum term contracts are required. The entire process is hassle-free too: free speed upgrades are available by phone, at www.batelco.com or Batelco retail
The full line up of Batelco’s Full Broadband packages:
speed
640 Kbps
throttle 128 speed Kbps thres hold price
2
GB
1
Mbps
1
2
Mbps
Mbps
256 256
512
Kbps
4
GB
Kbps
8
GB
shops; there is a dedicated helpdesk available for free around the clock on 196; and broadband for new customers can be activated on an existing fixed line within two hours of application. Batelco fixed broadband is delivered over the ADSL2+ technology and ensures Batelco’s customers benefit from top quality and reliable service. This makes it arguably the best choice for high usage and professional users due to its stability and efficiency. Furthermore, Batelco has also introduced new ‘extra usage’ bundles for customers who wish to surf at maximum speed after exceeding the monthly threshold limits. Unlimited usage is charged at 1 fils per MB only. New customers have been invited to subscribe and start benefitting from Batelco’s Broadband Packages by visiting any Batelco retail shop. Registration is free for all new subscribers to any of Batelco’s Consumer Broadband packages n
4
Mbps
1
8
Mbps
1
10
Mbps
2
16
Mbps
2
Kbps
Mbps
Mbps
Mbps
Mbps
15
25
60
80
100
GB
GB
GB
GB
GB
BD10 BD12 BD15 BD20 BD30 BD60 BD80 BD100
For more information click on www.batelco.com, visit any Batelco retail shop or phone 196.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 35
Technology
Store with Sony Being just 4.6mm in size, this slim stylish drive weighing just 4g, is available in 4GB, 8GB and 16GB capacities in a choice of white, or the limited edition pink and lime green colour options. The new ultra-slim USB drive also features a handy strap hole for attaching the drive to a key ring, phone or MP3 player. The Microvault USB is easily distinguishable from others once it’s mounted on the PC desktop, where quick drive identification assigns a unique drive name for easy recognition. Designed to match compact devices with USB ports, such as netbooks and notebook PCs, the flash drive displays a bright yellow-green LED, on top of the drive, giving visual confirmation during file transfers. www.sony-mea.com
Gadgets
Rule! s go.
Where all our pennie
Colourful Memories
Available in a selection models with red, green, blue, white and silver coloured graphical accents on a high gloss black finish, STOR.E ART4 gives customers the choice to express their personal style. The device provides a capacity of up to 1TB memory and comes with a protective pouch to secure the device safely and protect it while on the go. The STOR.E ART4 also comes with full version NTI BackupNow EZ software option, which enables the user to backup all those valuable files. Besides automatic backup routines, it offers even a full system backup for disaster recovery as well as data encryption for maximum security. The built-in shock sensor is an additional smart feature which suspends write function in case of an accidental drop or shock, and helps to avoid physical damage to the drive. www.toshiba.com
A Family of Phones The Samsung Galaxy Ace, Samsung Galaxy Gio and Samsung Galaxy Mini all offer a unique take on the smartphone experience. Following the success of the Samsung Galaxy S, the new smartphones meet the diverse demands of current and potential smartphone users. The family of phones shows that smartphones can cater to any number of lifestyles with enhanced multimedia and application capabilities as well as a social hub keeping users always in touch. Each device has been created to meet unique needs and allow users to share the fun and excitement in their lives with friends and family. www.samsung.com
36 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Bahrain
In Pictures ...
38 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Contents
26
April 2011 • Issue 100
People 10 32 54 60 170
The Girl with Velvet Eyes: Elizabeth Taylor Law of the Wild: Michel Denis-Huot Real Lives Socialite Diaries Business in Brief
Opinion
96 The Power of Earth Hour - Rehan Ahmed 128 Crossing the Rubicon? - Mohammed Al Rasheed
Fashion and Shopping 22 36 52 53 62 64 70 71 72 73 76 86
Sheer Luxury Gadgets Rule! At Your Service The Language of Flowers The Herrera Trend The Fashion Apple A Gal’s Got to Shop ... ... And So Do Guys! Trend Report: Go Wild Trend Report: Smart Shorts BC’s Fashion Police Don’t Forget the Kids
Beauty, Health & Well Being 53 87 88 92 94 90
Organic Food and the Environment Motherhood: Hollywood’s Latest Trend Beauty Buzz Health Updates Earth Day Fraxel Treatment
Juicy Pickings 6 8 12 16 18 30 34 98 112 113 127
Editor’s Letter Readers’ Letters Not to Be Missed! BC’s Hot List New in Town Stars Shine in Chopard New in the Market Society Pet Rescue: Looking for a Home! Don’t Just Leave Your Pets! Horoscopes
Cars
108 A Concept to Conceptualise 110 One Extreme to Another - Maserati 111 A Mercedes Face Lift
Staying In and Going Out 114 116 117 118
Gastro Calendar Food for Thought Block 338 Delights! Nightlife Listings
Essential Listings
120 Recommended Restaurants, Nightspots, Essential Info, Beauty
Spots, Sports and Fitness, Clubs and Associations
The Language of
Photography
42
Should I Stay
or Should I Go?
The Royal
Wedding
Photographs taken by Armand Hough. For more information visit www.iamfotografie.com
Bahrain
If you have any pictures that are fit for purpose please submit to Info@ArabianMagazines.com
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 41
Bahrain
Should I Stay Or Should I Go? This question has been repeated by many people of all nationalities in light of the recent civil unrest. So, Bahrain Confidential decided to ask nationals and expats alike what their thoughts were on this.
Events that happened in the last 30 days will be less than 50 words in history and will definitely be less significant. It is time we prepare ourselves to give history pages and pages of words that will exhibit unity in diversity, development, co-existence and above all peace. I love Bahrain. Jaishankar M.
Bahrain is my home and my hat has been laid here a long time! We are here because we love the place and we are here because we love the people who share that view. But living relies on funds: Mafi Foloos, Mafi Adam, simple but true. I hope things get better ASAP! Adam PageÂ
42 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Bahrain When the Going Gets Tough ... I would like to stay because I invested a lot of time and resources here and uprooting myself requires an exit strategy which I hadn’t planned on. Why? Because I had no idea that what was supposed to be a peaceful day of protests on Valentine’s Day would spiral out of control and last a month. Bahrain has been my base for so long that I feel I am a part of it. So why should I get going just because the going is tough? I hope to survive and give myself another three months before the final decision. Sukrit Gongopadhyaya
I’m 50-50, feeling uneasy and hopeful at the same time. Tariq ‘Rick’ Sharif
The Economy
The economic scenario in Bahrain was seemingly recovering from the global downturn and businesses. The services sector especially was looking forward to a bright year ahead. That was until the day which was supposed to be a day of love. Although rumours were abuzz, not many would have predicted that things would turn this bad, all for a call of the good old word ‘democracy’. One should ask a person from the Indian sub-continent as to what democracy is and how our leaders behave once they are in power. A liberal monarchy, especially in a welfare state, is one hundred times better than a chaotic democracy where leaders wait to come to power only to suck as much resources as possible from the naïve public or a country led by theocratic leaders where people lose their freedom even to express their thoughts. At this hour, our prayers are with the people of this beautiful island that they may gain the wisdom to understand and stave off negative influence from other parts of the world.
Charles Desmond Jathanna Soar High!
THY is Here to Stay. Airlines facing fluctuating marketing conditions make necessary changes to reduce costs and increase their profits. As a seasoned European carrier Turkish Airlines meets such challenges with a pragmatic approach, weathering any crisis and soaring to even greater heights. We are here to stay and serve our loyal patrons in discovering new horizons safely and comfortably. Serhan Asay - Country Manager, Turkish Airlines
Expatriate
For 23 years, this island kingdom has been my home. It taught me things I needed in life, and gave me good friends whom I call my second family - both expatriates and locals alike. Bahrain, the friendliest country in the world, is facing a challenge and an obstacle it can tackle. Now, we can all learn and grow together, in being united and peaceful loving citizens and residents.
Juni Capulong
The will of living in harmony is not new to Bahrain. I only hope that this is a hiccup and with a few glasses of water it will become water under the bridge. Reef Island has become a close knit community to its residents and this has only brought us all closer; one big supportive family! I hope for the same within the wider community of Bahrain. Abdul Hamid Dernaika - Marketing and Sales Manager, Reef Islands
I Would if I Could
After 20 years in Bahrain, I did not make the decision to stay on the island during the current crisis, the decision was made for me by a travel ban imposed by people I owe money to. I want to pay back what I owe, but the Bahrain Government is not renewing my residency, stopping me from working here, and, therefore, stopping me from paying anyone back - actually stopping me from earning a living. This is against my fundamental Human Rights and, I believe, in violation of the International Code of Banking Practice which is supposed to be overseen by the Central Bank of Bahrain. Is this what you call ‘Business Friendly’ Bahrain?
Carol Melrose (travel banned) Mixed Signals
Should I stay or should I go? A question that obviously bemused the British Embassy! The lack of reliable information and complete absence of leadership and clear advice from the people that are meant to look after us was astounding. Whether they knew it or not, the British Embassy caused panic amongst my friends and family, one minute telling us to leave, the next telling us to batten down the hatches and ride this thing out. I never really felt in danger and was in no way threatened by the protesters, instead just thoroughly confused by the people we look to lead us in a time of need. Ashley Kingstone
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 43
Bahrain I Believe in Bahrain
Bahrain is my home. I made this decision two years ago when I decided to establish my business in this lovely island known for the kindness of its people, its tolerance towards other religions and cultures and its strategic business environment. I strongly believe in the will of the Bahraini people in staying united. My family and I have no intention to leave, we are Bahraini by heart and we are here to stay! Rodolphe Melki
This kind of situation is not new for me. I have experienced worse. Considering that I have made Bahrain my second home, and I can see that I can still do more, I prefer to stay. Leila Dulay
What Happens Now? When I came to Bahrain almost nine years back, the Pearl monument/roundabout (without the flyover then) was a very pleasing and welcoming landmark. Over the years, it had become an integral part of our lives. Now that it is no more, it appears to have created an emotional vacuum. More than that, I feel sad about what has happened in the last one and a half months, to the people here and to the economy. I have good friends among Bahrainis, about whom I never felt the need to know about their political or religious affiliations, as it didn’t matter. It is sad to see them suffering. It is sad to see the destruction all over the country. As an expat, though I have felt insecure and uncertain at times, I have never felt that I would need to leave Bahrain to save my life. But what happens to the economy and its impact on the jobs scene would perhaps determine who stays on and who leaves the country. Alka Kumra Love Bahrain ... Will Serve
I have been residing in this beautiful country for some time and my wife and I have fallen in love with it. It is not only the beauty of the architecture, but the friendly nature of Bahrainis that has charmed us. I am the COO of Royal Bahrain Hospital and my message to everyone is: “Royal Bahrain Hospital is committed to healthcare of the highest quality and we have been working every single day. Being in the essential services sector, we cannot think of even one day off. We are here to serve the nation and the people here.” Dr Ashish Banerji
44 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Here to Stay
For me and my family, the question of leaving does not cross our minds. This is where I was born, where my family has lived for almost thirty years - our home. As the events unfolded around us, many relatives and friends urged us to leave. But on a closer look at the events, it is clear that it is not an anti expat campaign. As part of my work as a journalist, I have been lucky to speak to people on all sides, and they have always assured me that they respect expatriates and appreciate those who are working in developing this country. It is scary but we can take precautions like carrying our ID at all times and staying indoors after dusk. The Prime Minister and Foreign Minister have also assured us that they will do their best to keep us safe. I trust them and I trust Bahrain. Dilraz Kunnummal
I just spent the last two months rowing across the Atlantic, so I have no idea what is going on, but it sounds like Bahrain has had a lot more “drama” than I did battling across an ocean, dealing with sharks and whales. I love Bahrain, and have moved here six times during my life, but I also know that I am very lucky and privileged, and others far less so. Without getting into the politics of the situation, I would have to say, I have faith that Bahrain will come through this stronger, and so I am happy to come back to Bahrain from my row. However, despite many people’s perceptions, I do not like to take unnecessary risks. All my expeditions are scrutinised from every angle to mitigate every possible risk, so that I have every chance of success. If living in Bahrain becomes what I would assess as an unacceptable risk, then I will leave. I am not geographically tied to Bahrain by my choice of work. I could live anywhere, and in fact Oman or Dubai would probably be more convenient, but I love Bahrain and leaving for good would be hard. There is always the option of returning in the future however ...
Nabs El-Busaidy
Bahrain Safety Issues Our world is changing and we are all sorry and support the people in Tunisia, Egypt and Libya but then comes my second home Bahrain, that I as Jordanian staying there cant still believe, its Bahrain who is hurt by its own people. Whatever is happening in Bahrain these days is an ethnic cleansing, people went out for their rights and didn’t know what was ahead of them. Bahrain was safer???? where I could actually leave the house at any time during the day and come back home thankful for my life and country. Now it’s not AS safe to go out anymore or to even have a walk to enjoy what’s left of winter. Bahrain went from being the pearl of the gulf to a ghost town and yes we all have responsibility to bring it back to life and put all our differences aside. Let’s hope for Bahrain to unite! Helen Nimri
Peaceful? Really?
I have lived in a few GCC countries for 14 years including Bahrain - now coming up to five years. To me Bahrain was the best country to live amongst the GCC until these so-called ‘’Peaceful Demons-traitors’’ wanted to “Liberate’’ it to become a “Democracy.’’ My house is situated facing the used-to-be Pearl Roundabout and the Central Market. I have seen from 14th February - the day these Demonstraitors came to the roundabout - what they have done until the last day from my ring side seat. What I have seen and heard over the loud speaker when they did their speeches consisted mostly of hatred for the government, the Royal family, the Sunnis and the expatriates since day one. The way they talk does not sound at all peaceful to me. Bahrain will never be the same again. The economy might improve for the country and the businesses, the social life might seem back to normal but there will always be from now the feeling of ‘’looking over one’s shoulder’’ when going out anywhere in Bahrain for all of us. I do not feel safe anymore and because of this I am saying it is time for me to get out of here for good. Sayonara Beautiful Bahrain. You will always be in my heart.
Rozita Sheila Rahim
It would take me WAY more than 50 words to say what I have to say and my opinion probably wouldn’t go down well in certain circles!! HELL NO! WE WON’T GO!!
Marie-Claire Honeywill In Limbo
We’re in a period of transition; what are the scenarios and what stable state lies in wait for us on the other side? Will it turn out to be all just like before? Will those companies and individuals who can leave be looking for opportunities to disinvest? Could the pressures inside lead to permanent change for the better and more growth? Peter Town
Messy Media
We decided to stay in Bahrain and have been utterly appalled by the media coverage in the UK. The BBC were actually reporting that British were being told to leave on the day they changed the FCO advice! So we ended up fielding a lot of anxious relatives who thought we were going against not just the FCO, but the BBC as well! Because people trust the BBC. Well not anymore they don’t! I have sent countless emails complaining about the BBC’s sensational, one-sided coverage, and so have a lot of other expats in Bahrain. We have been in Bahrain a year now, and I love the country and the people. We wouldn’t dream of leaving unless things got so bad we had to be evacuated out. My husband just did his job from home for a week, then went back. We’re being careful and not going out at night as requested by the FCO. Nina Duff
Give Up?
Why shouldn’t I go? Bahrain has been through a lot in the past few weeks, with all the distrust in our government, with all the bloodshed, all the fears and tears and now that its hopefully over, Bahrain still holds shaky ground. The inability to go out after 8pm when Bahrain was otherwise awake until 3am; the scary checkpoints; the fear of visiting your next door neighbour, and let’s not forget the fact that every parent has to reassure their child in the midst of all this. And of course, a teenager’s worst nightmare, your mother’s call every five minutes! But yet, I decide to stay, I decide to not give up on my nation, on my people. I decided to trust our army, our government’s promise of security, our love and respect for one another, our generation-after-generation’s worth of blood, sweat and tears spent on this country. Why? Two reasons: firstly because Bahrain didnt give up on me when I was in fear of its people and secondly, and more importantly, because Bahrain has great sheesha shops!
Sumayya Khunji I’m Here to Support Bahrain
I prefer to stay in Bahrain as it is very secure now, there is no threat to expats, and I personally will not leave when the country needs support. Bahrain has given a lot to me and it’s time for us to show our love and support for the kingdom. Sultan Mohammed
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 45
Fashion
Aziza Salman, a Bahraini photographer felt that with the current situation in Bahrain, she has an obligation to try and unite her country. The best way she knew was through photos.
46 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
B e t i n u
Fashion
“A photo can say more than a million words and hands held together could remind us of a million great memories and ties together! All Bahrainis need to put their hands together and jump the hump together,� she said.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 47
Fashion
Aziza publicly announced the #UniteBH photo shoot on her Twitter and Facebook page, asking everyone who would like to participate to do so and to share the event with their friends too! 48 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Photographs taken by Armand Hough. For more information visit www.iamfotografie.com
Bahrain
If you have any pictures that are fit for purpose please submit to Info@ArabianMagazines.com
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 41
Bahrain: Seef Mall, Manama, Tel: 17588188
www.marksandspencerme.com
At Your Service
Disposing
Responsibly
W
e all have mobile phones. Some of us just want one that rings but many more of us want the latest and greatest. Unfortunately a new version of the latter comes out almost every month. We upgrade our phones but what do you do with the old one? With this you can possibly hand it down, but what if the old one doesn’t work anymore? It just feels wrong to throw a piece of technology away! In answer to this growing problem of ‘phone waste’, Zain Bahrain has adopted responsible e-waste disposal of handsets, mobile phone batteries and other accessories
50 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
As part of its commitment to clean the environment, Zain Bahrain has launched the first ever e-waste collection campaign targeting mobile phone users.
as its major CSR initiative from 2011. The Zain National Mobile Phone and e-Waste Recycling Campaign has been started as an initiative to invite those who want to get rid of their broken or unusable handsets at their network of eleven Zain Experience shops across Bahrain. The Zain National Mobile Phone and e-Waste Recycling Campaign gives the public a chance to participate in a hassle-free manner in the management of e-waste. Anyone, whether a Zain customer or not, can discard their broken and unusable mobile handsets in special drop-boxes placed in the Zain Experience shops. The e-waste generated by this initiative will be collected, sorted and professionally disposed of in the safest manner possible by Zain Bahrain, who has engaged Enviroserve, a respected environmental waste disposal company for this task. Those who drop off their wasted handsets, meanwhile, can enter a raffle draw to win a new handset. “The Zain National Mobile Phone and e-Waste Recycling Campaign play an essential role in our community,” said Zain Bahrain’s General Manager Mohammed Zainalabedin. “We believe that it is time to step up to the plate and provide a solution for this e-waste concern. We have made this an interactive CSR initiative by offering participants a raffle ticket to enter our draw and win a new handset from Zain Bahrain. The biggest bonus is that you can rest
easy that your discarded mobile handset will be disposed of in a responsible manner that is environmentally safe.” Bahrain, despite being a small market, has one of the most liberal telecoms sectors in the region and telecoms technology is embraced easily here. This has led to a high turnover in mobile handsets as customers invest in new handsets that will allow new technology downloads. “We are proud to have Zain Bahrain as our partner in promoting this Call To Action for all Bahraini citizens and residents in support of a greener, healthier state. E-waste is the largest growing waste stream globally,” said Stuart Fleming, CEO of Enviroserve. “It is growing at a rate of three times faster than any other type of waste and the worrying thing is, it’s the most dangerous form of waste within the general waste management umbrella. Every day, hundreds of phones are disposed of to landfill sites where they are destroying our natural habitat with acids and hazardous products which enter our groundwater system. This must stop. We are renting this world from future generations. We must ensure we hand it on in the same condition we were given it by our forefathers.” Corporate Communications Manager Samya Hussein explained that “the bulk of a mobile handset consists of components that are plastic, ceramic, or metals. Almost all components of a mobile handset can be either recycled or used in a way so that nothing goes into landfills as e-waste. “Mobile handset chargers can be recycled as well as other mobile accessories. But to do all this, we need to begin with a first step - the collection of these handsets. This is why the Zain National Mobile Phone and e-Waste Recycling Campaign is so important,” she added. Mobile handsets can be dropped off at any of the eleven Zain Experience shops
“Those who drop off their wasted handsets, meanwhile, can enter a raffle draw to win a new handset.”
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At Your Service
Affordable Comfort Across Continents
T
urkish Airlines celebrated the launch of its inaugural flight from Istanbul to Los Angeles, the airline’s fourth destination in the United States on 3rd March. Nonstop flights now operate four times per week on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday with the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. To celebrate the new route, Turkish Airlines is offering an exceptionally discounted rate on all flights from Los Angeles to Istanbul purchased on or before 30th April. Round trip flights are available for USD752 (BD284) including all taxes and fees. Passengers travelling to or from Los Angeles experience exceptional service aboard the brand-new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. Equipped with the latest technology, the planes feature Turkish Airlines’ new Comfort Class. Comfort Class provides the affordability of economy with the luxury of business class. Boasting a 46-inch seat pitch and a seating area of 19.5 inches, Comfort Class offers the widest possible knee and seat space, compared to other airlines with premium economy. Every seat is also equipped with 10.6-inch in-arm monitors with AVOD services and connects to iPods or USB devices. Internet, GSM and Live TV applications are also accessible for Comfort Class passengers. To view Turkish Airlines’ flight schedule visit www.thy.com
Saving The Planet One Initiative At A Time
I
n a step to improve environmental sustainability within the Gulf, Masafi has introduced the lightest 500ml water bottle in the UAE, manufactured with 23 per cent reduced plastic. At a weight of just 13 grams, Masafi is the first company in the food and beverage sector across the Middle East to introduce the new eco-friendly bottles. The reduced plastic on Masafi 500ml bottles considerably cuts down on the carbon emissions in the manufacturing and disposal processes. The launch of the new bottles is a major step in Masafi’s Carbon Action Plan – a key initiative launched in 2008 aimed at reducing the carbon footprint in the UAE by cutting down on the carbon emissions from its manufacturing unit, product offerings, systems as well as services. With the new technology, Masafi will cut down on an estimated 575 tonnes of PET on an annual basis. In comments on the new bottle, Mohammad Usman, Factory Manager of Masafi Water and Tissues line, said: “The launch of the new bottles with reduced plastic will go a long way in ridding this planet of harmful non-degradable plastic waste. It is well known that 46,000 pieces of plastic debris float on every square mile of the Earth’s oceans. The new reduced plastic technology will be introduced on 500ml bottles first, at no extra cost to customers and maintaining our world-class quality.” Usman added: “The new bottles also have a new base innovation technology to resist the stacking pressure, thus reducing the damage to bottles in distribution.” In November 2009, Masafi launched OxoBiodegradable films in its shrink-wrap packaging for water bottles which completely revolutionised the food packaging sector. The company also launched the Corporate Recycling Initiative in 2008, where it collects plastic bottles from UAE-based companies employing 200-plus people for recycling purposes.
52 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
At Your Service
Organic Food And The Environment
Y
ou may think it’s all just a fad – but many studies support the fact that organic foods are better and healthier not only for the consumer but also for the environment. Dr David Thomas, a physician and researcher, has studied and compared US government guidelines and tables for the nutritional content of various foods and noticed a trend that supports the decline in the nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables produced via modern farming practices in recent decades. A study published in the Journal of Applied Nutrition lists many nutrients that appear to be altered based on how they are farmed. The study looked at organic apples, pear, potatoes, wheat, and sweet corn and compared the levels of certain nutrients in relation to the commercially available counterparts produced via modern farming practices. The study lists the macronutrient chromium as being found at levels 78 per cent higher in organic foods. The study also showed that calcium is found at a level 63 per cent higher in organic foods and magnesium is found at a level 138 per cent higher in organic foods. Other studies have shown that the use of pesticides can also alter the levels of certain vitamins including B vitamins, vitamin C, and beta-carotene in fruits and vegetables. Nils El Accad, CEO of Organic Foods and Café, says, “The word ‘organic’ means ‘living’, and this means natural food that is grown and processed without chemical fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides or fungicides. Organic food is nothing else but good pure nutritional food – the way it used to be and this is our motto at Organic Foods and Café.” Visit the Organic Foods and Café at the first level of Seef Mall. Tel. +973 1782 2230 or email: pr@goodfood.bh or visit www.organicfoodsandcafe.com
Flowers O The Language Of
ne may find it difficult to express their true feelings and wonder, “How do I say I love you?” or “I want to be your friend” or “You are special.” You could probably compose a song, write a poem, paint something or perhaps do something much easier and more significant … give flowers! Some of us may know what some flowers typically symbolise – red roses imply passionate, romantic love whilst pink roses a lesser affection; white roses suggest virtue and chastity and yellow roses stand for friendship or devotion. Daisies convey innocence or purity; the iris represents the sending of a message; a pansy signifies thought, a daffodil regard, and a strand of ivy fidelity. Zen’s Flowers provides flower arrangements that are personalised to suit your requirements – whether it’s just a simple gesture to a friend or a corporate function that require simple or elaborate floral displays. They can also look after every detail of your party or wedding, or any other events you want organised. You can also add a little something to sweeten things up even more with their mouthwatering chocolate selections. Whatever the occasion or if you’re feeling just a little tongue-tied, let Zen’s Flowers ‘say’ it for you. Zen’s Flowers is located Shop 267-A, Road 338 Block 335, Um Al Hassam. Tel. +973 1774 1929 or +973 3610 9908; email: zensflower@batelco.com.bh
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 53
Real Lives
Aaron Maree:
“Love All, Serve All” With a love for food and a desire to travel, internationally renowned, Bahrain-based pastry chef, Aaron Maree, is set to introduce the world to the delights of Middle Eastern cuisine.
A
t the tender age of 13 Aaron Maree began his career in the culinary field. Over the years, he won many awards and finished an apprenticeship at just 17. He then went on to London, England to work with popular Michelin-star chef, Gary Rhodes. After various placements and much cooking, Aaron realised that he’d already worked with four master pastry chefs; “Most people don’t even get to work with one or two throughout their entire career,” he told Bahrain Confidential. With that in mind, Aaron started taking notes. With a few hiccups along the way, he was eventually asked by Rupert Murdoch himself to sign on with Harper Collins who subsequently published his first book ‘Cakes, Tortes and Gateaux,’ which went on to become a worldwide bestseller. He was just 19. From 1990 to 2001, Aaron had 14 books published. He also had his own television show in Australia and his own company, Maree Enterprises, which took care of everything he was involved in. Moreover, he was working as a consultant for Cadbury Schweppes worldwide, had assisted in the opening of ‘Death by Chocolate’ restaurants and was a consultant for Mövenpick between Toronto and Amsterdam. Soon he noticed that while he was incredibly busy furthering his career, he hadn’t actually been cooking for a while. So in 2001 he opened his own pastry shop in Canada called ‘Dip Me in Chocolate’. “After three years I was beginning to spend seven days a week there so I decided to travel.” Aaron got a job with Holland America cruise lines
as senior pastry chef and travelled to 77 countries in five years. This is when he decided to move to Bahrain. “There was a huge opportunity in the Middle East to upgrade the skills of everyone and raise the standards of pastry chefs in hotels. I also feel so at home here.” And so he became a Middle East Dessert Consultant. “I just want the world to see Bahrain and the Middle East for the beauty of their cuisines.” The idea for Aaron’s latest book, ‘Arabian Dreams’, which was published in November 2010, came when he was working with a team who Aaron felt, could not see outside their job. “I wanted them to see that pastry could be more than just going to work, cooking for eight hours, and then going home. So I said let’s think of a title, pick the best 50 desserts we do and put a book together!” Although the publishing industry had changed immensely since he wrote his last book, and people were not convinced he was up to the task, Aaron was determined. “Fortunately we produced a book that was voted one of the top 57 cookbooks in the world by the Gourmand Cookbook Awards and it received top Arabic title cookbook in the world. The team is elated.” So what’s next? “Well, I have a four-book deal with my team so there are still three to come. The next one is called ‘Salad Daze’ in which we have reinvented salads to be the absolute Michelin-star creations they deserve to be.” Also on the agenda, Aaron admits, are Arabian Dreams pastry shops in big cities around the world. Aaron tells us his influence for the last 20 years has been Gary Rhodes, the master chef he began his career with. “He likes to take traditional British food, which has a reputation for being heavy and stodgy, and turn it into Michelin-star food. That’s what I’m trying to do with Arabian food. You can use the same ingredients and textures but you create something truly unique and gourmet out of it. Middle Eastern cuisine has so much potential.”
“His first book ‘Cakes, Tortes and Gateaux,’ went on to become a worldwide bestseller. He was just 19.”
Arabian Dreams author and pastry chef Aaron Maree, Photo by Jacqueline Kent
54 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Real Lives
Robin Barratt: Pushing It To The Limit
Bringing the unusual and innovative to Bahrain is what bestselling author and ex club manager Robin Barratt is all about.
H
aving moved to Bahrain just two years ago with his wife, Robin Barratt bestselling nonfiction author and ex club manager - has now made this his home. “Bahrain is infinitely better than England,” Robin told Bahrain Confidential. “We gave up our house in the UK, so this is it. I have no desire to go anywhere else in the world.” Robin started his career as a doorman on nightclub doors in Manchester many years ago. He then got into club management, moving all over England. “Basically I was getting clubs, that weren’t doing well, busy again.” One year, Robin was managing a hugely popular club in Paris when a friend of his - who had spent some time collecting clothes and medicines - “literally beeped his horn outside my window and said ‘come on mate, we’re going to Bosnia.’ This was at the height of the war.” After being in Bosnia for a few days, Robin flew back and gave in his notice at the club. He then moved out there for almost a year and, with his friend, set up an appeal in conjunction with ‘Feed the Children’. “We delivered thousands upon thousands of tonnes of aid. Our objectives were to identify areas of greatest need and we travelled all over Croatia and
Bosnia delivering food. I loved it. “I’ve travelled a lot and done some unusual things. I like to take life as far as I can and I’ve had experiences that people in their everyday lives haven’t - from running the doors and nightclubs in ganginfested Manchester to delivering aid in Bosnia and living in Moscow and Africa.” When a publisher heard his story he told him it would make an interesting read. And so, Robin’s first book - an autobiography called ‘Doing the Doors’ - came out and became a bestseller in its genre. This was ten years ago and since then Robin has written a book a year
are to develop a really strong network of writers - “people who write for a living all the time and people who want to write but don’t know where to start” - and allow then to interact and learn from each other. On every first Sunday of the month the group gathers at a different venue to network and listen to guest speakers. The next meeting this month will focus on the concept of blogging because “there is so much opportunity for writers to voice their ideas and opinions on the internet now.” That’s not all Robin is doing here though. He’s using his writing experiences but what about all that club management knowledge? Well, he’s also a consultant in the set up of a new nightclub - KLUB360° - that will be opening in May. “They approached me and I said I’d do it as long as it could be something completely original. I had already noticed that the island was lacking something unique, exclusive, sophisticated and a bit unusual; as you already know, I’m into unusual things.” The concept behind KLUB360°, Robin tells us, is not a panoramic view but a very visual experience. “There will be a video wall, dynamic lighting that moves all the way around the bar, beautiful Eastern European waitresses in real sparkly overthe-top uniforms, acts, contortionists, human statues, a smoke screen - all these things that Bahrain has never really seen.” Robin also hints at a “quirky” system which will be put in place that will allow people to be served instantaneously
“I like to take things as far as I can and I’ve experienced things that people in their everyday lives don’t.” and he keeps getting contracts to write more. “They’re all about tough guys and gangsters. I’ve created a nice little niche in that genre. But watch out for a novel coming next.” With all this experience to share, Robin has set up the Bahrain Writers’ Circle for professional and amateur writers within the kingdom. “I have been impressed - I didn’t realise there were so many budding writers here.” Robin states that his objectives
Robin Barratt
For more information visit www.robinbarratt.com or www.KLUB360.com
56 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
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Improve your golf game by having a 20minute swing check with James Martin, the Royal Golf Club’s newest PGA Teaching Professional. James is available for swing check appointments every Monday and Tuesday evening between 6pm and 8.30pm and it will be BD12 well spent when his professional advice puts you on the road to better golf! Book your appointment by calling James on Tel. +973 3900 7309 or email:j.martin@theroyalgolfclub.com
Make big savings when you buy a multi-visit pass to the Royal Golf Academy’s driving range. Purchase a ten-visit pass for just BD65 and save BD10 or a 20-visit pass for BD120, a saving of BD30. Junior golfers under the age of 18 years can enjoy the benefits too with a ten-visit card available for BD25, a saving of BD5. For further information or to purchase your prepaid range card, visit the Royal Golf Academy or call +973 1775 0777.
Sign up today for the third annual Royal Golf Club Mixed Open and be in with a chance to win two Gulf Air return flights to London and many other fantastic prizes. The Mixed Greensomes Medal tournament will take place on 13th and 14th May and is open to all golfers. For further details and to reserve your space at the event, visit www.theroyalgolfclub.com
The Driving Range
“Doctor” James Martin
2010 Mixed Open winners David Axtell and Sarah Hobday
58 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Wake Up and Take Control of Your Life! Anthony Robbins calls it the New Science of Personal Achievement ... You’ll call it the best thing that ever happened to you. What well known people say: “THE ULTIMATE LIFE COACH he knows what it takes to make people excel ...and win!” Andre Agassi, - U.S. Tennis Champion. “Tony Robbins is one of the greatest influencers of this generation.” Stephen R. Covey, Author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. “Anthony Robbins is the ‘Ultimate Coach’ for that special breed of men and women who will never settle for less than they can be.” Pat Riley, NBA coach of the decade. “A month after Tony`s seminar, I wrote Sleepless in Seattle, and sold it for a quarter of a million dollars. Since then, I`ve sold or been assigned seven screenplays, at escalating amounts of money for major studios and top directors.” Jeff Arch, Screenwriter, Oscar Nominee. “Far surpassed my expectations. Tony is truly the best ‘coach’ I’ve ever been exposed to. Thanks for showing me that I was meant to fly.” Mitch Gaylord, Gymnast, Gold, Silver and Bronze Medalist 1984 Olympics. “His methods have improved the quality of my life. I only work with the best...and Tony is the best.” Quincy Jones, Musician, Producer. “Tony Robbins will teach you those critical key strategies that can ensure success.” Harvey Mackay, Author - Swim With The Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive. “I’ve had a lot of teachers and mentors over the years, and believe me, there is no one better than Tony Robbins.” John McCormack, Inc. Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year. “Tony Robbins ranks among the “Top 50 Business Intellectuals in the World.” Accenture Institute for Strategic Change.
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Dear Readers, Welcome to the 100th issue of Bahrain Confidential. We had intended it to be a bumper issue ... We were also going to have a great big party ...
... But big events have overtaken us. Last month saw hundreds of people leave Bahrain due to the civil unrest. People were understandably scared and so it just wouldn’t have been right to throw a big celebration party at such a time (so rather than celebrating our 100th issue this month we will instead be celebrating our 10th Anniversary in December). Many left, but most of us stayed. Bahrain is our home and we aren’t about to abandon it! Take a look at our readers’ comments in ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go’ to see what’s on people’s minds right now. If there’s one good thing to come out of all recent events, it’s Unite BH an idea that has caught on throughout various circles in Bahrain, producing stickers, badges, T-shirts, a documentary, a song and music video, and a stunning photo shoot that can be seen right here in BC. We love it - it’s all about unity in tough times. Many of the island’s society events were cancelled ... well, most of them ... ok they were pretty much ALL cancelled!!! So instead, our in-house photographer Armand Hough went on the streets capturing a different sort of society image - stunning images and you can see the results in our fourpage spread. Another important event this month is Earth Day. Remember, on 22nd April, everyone must be kind to the earth (though you should be anyway!). Try and do something environmentally friendly on this day; even if it’s just small. On a lighter note we have lots of fascinating interviews for you this month. We speak to international fashion designer Carolina Herrera about her trend that’s taken the world by storm. In Real Lives we profile two authors non-fiction writer Robin Barratt and Michelin-star chef Aaron Maree. Don’t miss reading about these inspiring and highly motivated people. Though we might forget it sometimes, love is always in the air, particularly in England this month with the Royal Wedding! That’s right, Kate and Will are about to the tie the knot and we’ve put together all the scandalous facts and fashion advice for those who are going. Speaking of fashion - we explore the looks at the Oscar’s too; a starstudded event where everyone always looks stunning! Oh and let’s not forget all those jewels (we swoon). In our Art Space this month we speak to Jocelyn Phillips, Head of the Photography Department at Bonhams, London. They’re bringing an exclusive photography sale to Dubai this month and they captured our attention with striking images of Coco Chanel and Twiggy. And of course we’ve got all the regulars from ‘BC’s Fashion Police’ and trend reports to ‘Sheer Luxury’ and ‘At Your Service’. The guys will be happy with a review of the GranCabrio Maserati. Plus, we even have events and gastro listings for you! Stay positive BC-ers. See you next month! Happy reading.
The Confidential Team
People
The
Socialite Diaries Bahrain Confidential manages to track down the elite of Bahrain to find out just what they are up to.
Where are you off to this month? Back home to Lebanon and I might go to Istanbul, Turkey.
What is your current favourite dining spot?
La Fontaine in Bahrain and Kempai or mybar in Lebanon.
What are you driving?
A small, cute red Hyundai Getzr which is so practical and fits everywhere especially when it is difficult to find parking.
What is the newest product in your handbag? An Emilio Pucci wallet.
Rana Raii
Diaries Socialite Where did you last shop?
I last shopped at Zara, Promod and Stradivarius where I picked up dresses, skirts and accessories in flashy colours – must-haves this summer. I went shopping for my mother as it is Mother’s Day. I picked her up a very beautiful pair of diamond earrings.
60 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Marketing Specialist, Azadea Group.
What have you been gossiping about?
The summer collections and what the musthaves are for next season.
e v i s u l c x E
The
Herrera Trend
When you think of Carolina Herrera the words sophistication and femininity immediately spring to mind. BC spoke to the lady behind the fashion-Venezuelan-born, American fashion designer and entrepreneur, Carolina Herrera herself.
What does style mean to you?
I believe that style is something innate, it’s an attitude, a way of thinking, and it’s not only about choosing the right dress. You have it or you don’t have it. What’s the SS11 collection like?
For Spring 2011 colours, prints, and floral appliqués have been taken from botanical plates collected in the 18th Century. What was the inspiration behind it?
The cut and details of this collection are inspired by traditional clothes from Korea. What was the inspiration behind the brand?
The Herrera principles have remained the same throughout these 30 years in the fashion world: elegance, refinement and sophistication. What makes your brand different from all the other highend fashion brands?
I can only say that our true qualities are: passion when designing, well-finished pieces, high quality fabrics, care for detail, a fantastic team and the Herrera touch. What does the future hold for the brand?
Even though this crisis seems never ending, I hope the future will bring lots of success! How involved are you in the business side of things?
I have a president of the company who runs the business part, I am aware of everything and take part on decisions but she runs it perfectly. I focus on creativity, on image, on product, on stores but the business as such is run by Caroline Brown, the president of my company.
Carolina Herrera with daughter Carolina Herrera Jr.
62 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Exclusive What has been the highlight of your career?
What trend did you start?
My true moment in fashion was when I presented my first collection in 1980 in New York at the Metropolitan Club. In your opinion, who is the best dressed person?
Every woman, man and child has their own style, and all of them are fantastic if they remain true to their personality.
How did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer? How did it all start?
I’ve always loved fashion, especially fabrics, their texture, how to combine different colours and I thought about starting a business. Although my first idea was to work on fabrics then, Diana Vreeland and Count Crespi, my friends, told me that I had enough talent and creativity to design clothes instead of selling fabrics and that’s how I designed and presented my first collection.
The Herrera trend!
What can we expect from the AW11 collection?
I can’t reveal the secret sorry, I can only say it will be very Herrera …. What do you think about today’s fashion?
For me, fashion, now and then, is and has always been ephemeral; it’s constantly changing. How has the fashion world changed since you began?
As I said, fashion evolves with people, with society; if it didn’t it would be very boring, all dressed alike! Have you ever had a fashion faux pas?
For sure, but it’s a secret and will continue to be ….
Tell us a bit about your charity work for malnutrition around the world?
I feel very honoured to be the Goodwill Ambassador and key Facilitator for IIMSAM`s Intergovernmental Institution for the Use of Micro-algae Spirulina Against Malnutrition -”The Right to Food Campaign Initiative Against Malnutrition”. I want to focus my contribution to counter malnourishment in infant or maternal mortality. Is this a very important cause to you?
It is, and as for the other causes that I support, I really believe that if with my public image I can help, I have to!
How was it combining your career and family life/motherhood?
Well, I have to say that when I decided to start designing, my four daughters were old enough to take care of themselves. Anyway a bit of discipline always helps ….
Ready to Wear
CH Carolina Herrera Spring/Summer 2011
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 63
Apple
B
ahrain City Centre recently hosted the Fashion Garden display and the highly successful Apple Lady Giant Mannequin ‘Guess and Win’ Campaign. In a bid to support aspiring local talent, Bahrain City Centre then showcased a unique fashion display in front of Saks Fifth Avenue. The challenge was for graduating fashion students from Bahrain’s Royal University of Women to use fabric from the fivemetre tall Apple Lady’s gown and reuse it to produce their own novel fashion pieces. Each graduate recycled the satin and tulle fabric from the original dress in a very artistic and tasteful manner, while adding some new trimmings and textiles to create something imaginative and new. The final ensembles stand alone as unique pieces of art. Ms Mona Suri, Royal University of Women Dean of Faculty of Art and Design said: “At the faculty of Art and Design students are encouraged to think and create outside of the box, and such activities motivate each one to learn new techniques and
64 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Shereen Mohmood Fakri
The Fashionable
The five-metre tall Apple Lady’s dress from Bahrain City Centre has been fashioned into 14 unique designs by Royal University of Women design students.
Manar Mohammed Isa Al Kubaisi
Duaa Mansour I Al Hamoud
Living
RUW students with management
mechanisms outside of the classroom. We feel such engagement with the community at large - designing for a purpose and reusing resources has given an enriching insight to our students. This collaborative activity with Bahrain City Centre is a milestone as
University of Women in such a unique way underscores our commitment to community. Maybe we will see some of these designers open their own boutiques in the future.” Ms Noora Al Khalifa was one of the students who participated in the unique project. “It’s a very interesting event to participate in. I thoroughly enjoyed working on this project, and I loved the idea of all the students using just one style of fabric - making it challenging, but an even playing field for us all. As an admirer of anything stylish and chic, and born to shop and create, my designs are mostly inspired by cupcakes and Michael Jackson’s unique style and songs.” Fellow participant Fatema Nader Mohamed Noor Nedham Khonji said: “Every girl’s dream is to wear a white dress and walk down the aisle, but my design goes beyond this dream. I have tried to create the perfect fantasy, one that will last long after the dress is worn.”
“Maybe we will see some of these designers open their own boutiques in the future.” it marks the beginning of a connection between an academic institution and a commercial institution for mutual benefit. We appreciate the initiative of BCC to partner with Royal University for Women in this endeavour. I look forward to similar activities.” Bahrain City Centre’s General Manager Mr Ray Scott commented: “Bahrain City Centre is the perfect place to showcase up-and-coming fashion talent given the impressive list of fashion stores we have. This opportunity to partner with Royal
Shopping
T
he year 1997 marked the ushering in of an entirely new era for shoppers in Bahrain. That was the year in which Seef Mall, Bahrain’s original family mall, first opened its doors to the public. Suddenly, a plethora of trendy shopping and dining options, previously unavailable in the kingdom, were all brought together under a single giant roof. But in addition to this, what truly set Seef Mall apart was its family-friendly atmosphere that offered something for everyone. Seef Mall quickly became a weekly habit for tens of thousands of people from both Bahrain and abroad. To this day, Seef Mall remains the ideal destination for individuals to come together and socialise in its relaxed ambience thanks to its abundant food outlets, shops, and entertainment zones. In keeping with this successful strategy, Seef Mall recently embarked on a series of major enhancement and expansion projects that further build on this unrivalled legacy. The BD2.5 million refurbishment which kicked off in January is a key component of the company’s upgrade master plan. Meticulously planned to ensure minimal disturbance to shoppers and scheduled to be completed in
Taking
Family
Shopping
To The Next Level
December, the scope of the refurbishment works includes overhauling the mall’s atriums, corridors, café area, and both food courts. In addition, shoppers will be able to enjoy updated facilities and amenities, as well as numerous other noteworthy upgrades. In the near future, shoppers and visitors will also witness the opening of more diverse outlets and the introduction of numerous unique services. These
plans include updating the mall’s exterior and introducing several new familyoriented surprises, one of which is the all-new Seef Express indoor trains that ferry customers around in style and convenience, and most importantly fun! All of this is only the beginning for Seef Mall’s ambitious initiatives as it carries on its unsurpassed legacy into the future.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 65
Royal Wedding
Prince William and Kate Middleton
Who’s Royal Kate? Wedding Marks and Spencer gets Regal Marks and Spencer has a range of fashionable hair accessories aimed at guests attending the Dubai World Cup the richest horse race in the world. The items are also perfect for a royal event such as the wedding with full-brimmed regal hats and accessories made of silk and mesh, the perfect accompaniment to any high class affair. Marks and Spencer is located in Seef and Bahrain City Centre.
66 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
The eldest of three children, Catherine Middleton was born on 9th January 1982, into a middle-class, rather than aristocratic, family from Berkshire, west of London. Her father Michael worked as a pilot and her mother Carole as an airline stewardess before setting up a mail order business selling party supplies. She met Prince William at St Andrews University in Scotland in 2001, where she read history of art. The pair lived together in a house shared with friends. They split up in 2007 after William was posted around the country as part of his military training, according to media reports. Since getting back together later that year, there has been persistent talk about a possible engagement. Critics in the tabloid press nicknamed Middleton “Waity Katie” after a marriage date failed to materialise and accused her of doing little with her life beyond waiting for William to pop the question. Middleton’s lawyers complained to Britain’s press watchdog in 2007 after photographers and TV film crews mobbed her outside her London flat, drawing comparisons with the media’s obsession with William’s mother, the late Princess Diana - who died in a Paris car accident while being pursued by paparazzi. Kate will be 29 when she gets married, making her the oldest royal bride ever. Even William’s mother, Princess Di, was barely 20 years old when she married his father, Prince Charles. Although, according to statistics, this actually gives her a better chance at a longer future with William. Studies have shown that couples who marry closer to the age of 30 tend to divorce less than their younger counterparts. Although Kate has seemingly made it her life’s work to become a princess (Seriously, she waited eight years? That’s longer than most people’s first marriages!) Kate’s ‘career,’ post-wedding will most likely take the form of that of other princesses and will reportedly revolve around Prince William’s schedule. According to rumours, Kate has already been assigned four bodyguards from Scotland Yard to protect her around the clock, as she adjusts to life in her new public role. After the messy divorces of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and Prince Andrew and Fergie, it’s being speculated that Prince William and Kate might be the first royal couple to sign a pre-nup. When asked what they love about each other, William mentioned that Kate had “plenty of habits” that he loved to tease her about. We’re happy to know that the soon-to-be British princess has just a touch of neurotic tendencies. She also reportedly can drink William under the table, which makes her a girl after our own heart.
Royal Wedding
Who’s Prince William?
Born William Arthur Philip Louis on 21st June 1982 at St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington, west London, he is the elder son of heir-to-the-throne Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana. After attending Mrs Mynors School, Prince William became a pupil at Wetherby School in London, until 1990 and then Ludgrove School in Berkshire, until 1995. He then attended Eton College. William studied at St Andrews University in Scotland and graduated in Geography in 2005. Prince William was 15 when Diana, Princess of Wales was killed in a car crash in Paris at the end of August 1997. William and his younger brother Prince Harry walked behind their mother’s cortege at her funeral procession in London. William joined the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst as an Officer Cadet and was commissioned as an army officer in front of the Queen at Sandhurst in December 2006 and joined the Household Cavalry (Blues and Royals) as a Second Lieutenant. William graduated as a search and rescue Pilot with the Royal Air Force in September 2010. William met Kate Middleton at St Andrews University in Scotland, where they were both began studying in September 2001. They shared a four-bedroom house in the town and went on several holidays together. Many cited intolerable media intrusion as the reason they broke up in 2007, but they soon got back together and will marry in 2011. Prince William, also a search and rescue pilot, and a HERO, saved the life of a man suffering chest pains while stuck on a mountain in stormy weather just 48 hours after his engagement was announced. The prince’s nickname in college? “P-Willy.” Which is, arguably, worse than “Waity Katie,” if largely due to the whale allusion. Pop singer Britney Spears says she was once stood up by Prince William. “We exchanged e-mails for a little bit, and he was supposed to come and see me somewhere, but it didn’t work out,” she told a British TV host in 2002. William isn’t keeping any
Name
Please ....?
While everybody is running around, rumour milling about who will wear what at the Royal Wedding on 29th April 2011, we check out who’s on the Royal guest list.
William’s Exes
prisoners on his wedding day and just to rub it in their faces Royal Brit style, he will be inviting all of his seven ex-girlfriends.
Arabella Musgrave, 28, Head of Gucci PR. Father Captain Musgrave runs Cirencester Park Polo Club. Davina Duckworth-Chad, 32, former model dubbed ‘Deb on the Web’ when Country Life featured her on its website. Rose Farquhar, 26, William’s first love and up-and-coming actress. Stole William’s heart after he left Eton in the summer of 2000. Jecca Craig, 28, whom William met when he was 16 at her parents’ Lewa Downs game reserve in Kenya. Now a party events manager. Olivia Hunt, 28, former Edinburgh University student who was briefly linked to William while he was at St Andrews University. Anna Sloan, 27, American heiress from Tennessee. Met William through mutual friends while she studied at Edinburgh University. Natalie Hicks-Lobbecke, 31, and husband Ed Milbank, 37. Natalie was first linked to the Prince when she was part of the Beaufort Polo Club set ten years ago.
Not Invited, Ahh Boo! Carley Massy-Birch, 27, dated the Prince shortly before he fell for Kate Middleton, leading to a rivalry between the two. Gemma Williamson, 29, a Marlburian who breached the code of silence and spoke about Kate’s school days. Isabella Anstruther-Gough-Calthorpe, 30, whom Prince William pursued in the summer of 2004 when he split from Kate. Big question mark over whether Kate will allow William to invite her. Jessica Hay, 28, Kate’s friend at Marlborough who talked to the press and is no longer in the inner circle. Sarah Ferguson, 51, Duchess of York, persona non grata at the Palace. Tess Shepherd, 28, a glamorous PR girl and daughter of a pig farmer who caught Prince William’s eye at Boujis. The King of Bahrain, His Highness Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa has declined so he can concentrate on Bahrain’s policies.
Invited But Declined Sir Elton John and Joanna Lumley are also expected to attend the ceremony. Sir Elton performed at the funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales and was chosen to end the ‘Concert for Diana’ organised by her sons in 2007. Miss Lumley is a supporter of the Tusk Ben Fogle, the television Trust, the wildlife conservation charity presenter, and his wife, Marina, of which Prince William is patron, and who are personal friends of the is a friend of both the Prince of Wales Prince and Miss Middleton. and the Duke of Edinburgh.
The Celebs The former Spice Girl Victoria and her husband, David, are among the celebrities invited to the wedding of Miss Middleton and Prince William.
More outlandish suggestions included Kanye West, the US rapper who is one of the Prince’s favourite recording artists.
Leaders
The King of Saudi Arabia, The King of Jordan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the Sultan of Oman and the Sultan of Brunei are also said to be on the list at the personal invitation of the Queen. There has been no word from the White House on whether Barack and Michelle Obama have been invited, but it is thought unlikely. As the Prince is not yet heir to the throne, the wedding is not classed as a state occasion and protocol dictates that elected foreign leaders should not expect an invitation.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 67
Royal Wedding
Royal
Fashion
Rules of Dressing at the Royal Wedding The guest list is out which means 1,800 lucky invitees from all over the world are gearing up for one of the most fashionable days of the century. As with any royal affair, there are rules when it comes to what they should wear. Bahrain Confidential offers some tips out there for attendees.
Carolina Herrera is located in Bahrain City Centre.
Alberta Feretti is located in Al A’ali Mall
Ladies Valentino is available at Saks Fifth Avenue in Bahrain City Centre.
As the date gets closer, one of the most anticipated revelations is of the wedding dress that Kate Middleton will be wearing. According to the rumourmill, Prince William asked her to wear his mother’s, Princess Diana’s, famous wedding gown but Kate opted against that idea. With a head for fashion, we’re sure she will make an interesting choice. Supposed designers include a Diana favourite, Bruce Oldfield, and Alexander McQueen creative director Sarah Burton. Kate has also requested Victoria Beckham to come up with some dresses for the honeymoon. According to the rumourmill, Prince William asked her to wear his mother’s, Princess Diana’s, famous wedding gown but Kate opted against that idea. With a head for fashion, we’re sure she will make an interesting choice. Supposed designers include a Diana favourite, Bruce Oldfield, and Alexander McQueen creative director Sarah Burton. Kate has also requested Victoria Beckham to come up with some dresses for the honeymoon.
Dior is located in Moda Mall.
Kate’s Dress
DO NOT wear revealing outfits. The wedding is being held at Westminster Abbey, a place of respect. Even the bride will have her shoulders covered. Make sure to have at hand a jacket or shrug to cover up.
Paule Ka
Paule Ka is located in J Boutique at Al A’ali Mall and Moda Mall.
DO wear full-brimmed hats. Images of elegance and royalty, these are ever so popular at upper class events, especially British ones. Bvlgari Alberta Feretti
Chloe
Princess Diana’s dress
68 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
DO NOT overdo the accessories. Regal attire tends to let the crown jewels do the shining. Opt for a few pieces of statement jewellery such as brooches and pendants and choose a clutch over a large bag.
Alberta Feretti,Chloe and Bvlgari are located at Al A’ali Mall.
Royal Wedding
Lanvin
Nina Ricci
Paule Ka
DO wear comfortable heels, this is going to be a long and televised event. In fact it has been rumoured the bride will be wearing flats. The last thing you want is to get blisters or fall over in front of the world.
Fendi is located in Moda Mall.
Nina Ricci is located in Saks Fifth Avenue at Bahrain City Centre.
Lanvin is located in Moda Mall.
WEAR WHITE. TLY - DO NOT AN RT PO IM T e! AND MOS pecially a royal on at all weddings, es mb thu of le ru a is This
Nina Ricci
DO NOT forget your gloves. Another sign of regal attire, most women will be expected to don them.
Carolina Herrera
Bvlgari is located at Al A’ali Mall.
Carolina Herrera is located in Bahrain City Centre
Gentlemen
Bvlgari
Carolina Herrera
DO try to spruce up with some colour. Choose ties and pocket squares that have a bit of style to them.
DO wear a hat if you are daring enough. Top hats and bowlers will not be out of place at this event.
DO NOT forget your suits. Your invitations request either a tailcoat, coat and tie ensemble or military attire. Bvlgari
Prince Harry
Lanvin
Paul Smith is located at Bahrain City Centre.
DO wear classy accessories, this includes jewellery such as cufflinks and smart shoes.
BD128
Lanvin
Available at www.mrporter.com
Paul Smith
Gucci
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 69
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Shopping BD48
aspiga
aspiga
BD48
Chloé
BD55
Dorothy Perkins
A Gal’s Got To Shop ... River Island
Prices may vary.
70 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
River Island River Island
The new Haute Couture Spring/Summer collection from Dior takes inspiration from 20th Century artist René Gruau using folds, tulle and layering in a rich palette of red, black and blue.
New Look
Splash out on accessories in light pastel shades available in River Island’s new Spring/ Summer collection. River Island is at Bahrain City Centre.
Dior
BD200
BD20.5 BD40
BD10
New Look
The new Spring/Summer collection mixes modern with vintage at New Look. New Look is at Bahrain City Centre.
New Look
River Island
BD265
New Look
Moda Mall.
The Spring Collection bursts with a vibrant palette of punchy coral, cobalt blue, scarlet red and blush pink, focusing on an enhanced cleavage, a cinched waist and a curvy derrière. Agent Provocateur is at Moda Mall.
Agent Provocateur
is located in
See by Chloé’s new collection caters to trendy and ambitious young women by providing a delightful range of mix and match classics that capture the style of the moment. Chloé is at Moda Mall.
Agent Provocateur
The 50s and 70s reign supreme this season, with all aspects of these two iconic decades playing a part in the Spring/Summer collections. Dorothy Perkins is located in Bahrain City Centre.
Dorothy Perkins
Dior
Chloé
Agent Provocateur
BD225
Agent Provocateur
Sophisticated one strap ‘Serena’ sandals come with encrusted diamonte stones and an elegant toe post strap. Made of genuine leather, they team up perfectly with a beach dress. Order on www.aspiga.com, quoting ‘bahrain’ as promotion code, or contactbahrain@aspiga.com
For other products, prices are available on request.
Shopping Ray-Ban
Ray-Ban
Ray-Ban sees the return of the 1960s Caribbean style with a vintage appeal and the iconic rounded style made famous by great personalities of the past in the Iconic collection. RayBan glasses can be found in leading optical stores.
Ray-Ban
River Island
Adidas
Adidas has launched the next evolution of the beloved Supernova Glide for Spring/Summer. The Supernova Glide 3 is designed to focus on fit, feel and transition. Available with Adidas stockists and in sports outlets.
River Island
The Spring/Summer collection brings together easy pieces with a stylish vision and a sharp focus on comfort, style and mass appeal.
Adidas
Adidas
... And
Guys!
River Island
So Do
BD8
Geox
New Look
Dress your feet up smartly this season with new shoes from the new Spring/Summer collection. Geox is located in Bahrain City Centre.
New Look
BD5.6
Bahrain City Centre.
The new Spring/Summer collection for men is now available at New Look in Bahrain City Centre.
BD8
New Look
Geox
New Look
For other products, prices are available on request.
River Island is located in
Geox
Prices may vary. April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 71
Fashion
Rihanna
Go Wild
Wallis
BD49
The latest trend to Warehouse hit the catwalk comes in the form of panda, giraffe and leopard - to name a few. It’s furry friend fashion, without the fur (the best kind).
Khloe Kardashian
BD37.5 River Island
Gwen Stefani
BD24
Topshop
BD40 Miss Selfridge
Debenhams
Givenchy
Topshop Prada
Louis Vuitton
Nicki Minaj
BD35
72 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Daisy Lowe
Dorothy Perkins
Louis Vuitton
BD9.5
River Island
Miley Cyrus
Fashion
Smart Shorts Shorts are back on the scene as the weather warms up and this season it’s all about high-waisted loose fits with an elegant twist.
River Island
Alexa Chung
Diane Kruger
Moschino
Miss Selfridge
Moschino
Blake Lively
Nina Ricci
River Island
Topshop Marc Jacobs
Ralph Lauren
Wallis
New Look
BHS
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 73
Fashion
Issa’s Colour Lace Capsule Collection
74 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Fashion Issa’s Colour Lace Capsule Collection available on www.net-a-porter.com
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 75
BC’s Fashion Following this month’s trend with sheer lace, Bahrain Confidential’s Fashion Police tells us who pulled it off and who should have taken it off.
Meet theJudges Rozan Ahmed PR ‘guru’ Contact: www.rozanahmed.com
Stephen Grant Hair Stylist and Event Coordinator, Wide Horizon Events Contact: +973 3921 8575.
76 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
ST
WOR
Nicole Kidman Rozan: “Wrong. I generally find navy blue the most boring of colours. I don’t like what’s happening on the neck and bust area either. The whole outfit screams ‘unsuitable’. I realise Nicole’s a style icon, but I’m sorry, denied.” Stephen: “Where is the nun’s habit? It would have worked well for the ‘Sound of Music’! More lace detail in the bodice would have softened the blow.” Victoria: “Nicole looks very aged in this dress; it really doesn’t do her any favours. It would have looked a bit more glamorous without the shrug top. Nicole looks dated and old fashioned!”
Victoria Shaban Principal of Victoria Dance at Bodyline Contact: +973 398 76215.
Scarlett Johansson
Police
Nicole Kidman
Fashion
Scarlett Johansson Rozan: “If I were a stylist, Scarlett would be one of my favourite canvasses. She can make most pieces look ravishing with those blessed curves and gorgeous face. The lace adds attitude and class, while the fit extenuates her amazing figure.” Stephen: “The colour really suits her skin tone. Very sleek and sophisticated with just enough detail in the lace to compliment the dress. Very flattering and feminine.” Victoria: “The colour didn’t really do it for me, I felt it clashed with the red carpet! I felt she looked a bit matronly in it, she just didn’t look ‘wow’ enough.”
Fashion
Rihanna
T
January Jones Rozan: “Lovely choice. Authentically classic. Her hair looks great, overall just great! Stephen: “Not working for me at all! The lace detail does not seem to coordinate and the black seems to drain all of the colour from her face.” Victoria: “I personally feel this dress didn’t really do an awful lot for her. The lines above the knee make her look oddly proportioned. I like the colours but on the whole the dress is a bit too demure for her.”
Mila Kunis
BES
January Jones
Mila Kunis Rozan: “Wonderful colour, superb use of texture. Flawless.” Stephen: “I love this dress! Wow she looks like a Greek goddess! Fantastic detail, elegant and debonair, it’s a sheer classic.” Victoria: “I thought this dress looked stunning. It complemented her dramatic dark hair and the style is beautiful. A great choice!”
Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera Rozan: “Oh no. I think of a garden gnome when I see this. The colours do not suit her skin tone and nothing can compliment that peroxide mess of hair.’ Stephen: “It’s a big no from me! Great for a semi-nude funeral but definitely not red carpet attire.” Victoria: “I felt the dress had a real vintage look to it, which I liked; it showed off her hourglass figure. Very glam, she looked quite the diva in it.”
Rihanna Rozan: “It’s Rihanna, she can wear a black bag and make it look good. There’s really no more to it.” Stephen: “I like it a lot! Superb lacework and the burgundy is a great colour on her. I think the hair should have been tamed to a sleeker upstyle to finish the total image.” Victoria: “I couldn’t make up my mind about this one, the colour was good on her but I just don’t like the style of the dress. I think she could have gone for something a bit more ‘rock star’.”
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 77
Fashion
Highlights Bemused
Black studded round fascinator: by Liv Free available from www.etsy.com Dress: Aqua Lloyd Sequin Maxi Dress available from www.asos.com
78 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Fashion
Leather gleeve by Venom Couture: available at www.venom-couture.com Necklace: Brick Lane Market, London Twist bangle: Brick Lane Market, London Rings: Stylist’s own Bird brooch styled as a ring: New Look Dress: Black lace maxi dress from ASOS. www.asos.com
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 79
Readers’ Letters
Dear Editor ... Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!
100 Issue
Many thanks to all of you who wrote in last month and apologies if your letter isn’t printed but we get so many. Remember our reply is meant to be humorous so if we offend you - grow up cry baby. Send your comments to
2011C’est
info@ArabianMagazines.com
Agree to Disagree
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
‘Eunique’
Flawless
Skin?
It’s Possible
BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20
Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!
99 Issue
I did not completely agree with Suhail Al Gosaibi’s article in Bahrain Confidential [last month]. Some of his points made sense and I myself agree that we cannot tarnish everyone with the same brush – just because some are bad doesn’t mean all are. On the question of the police force, earlier I used to be of the same opinion that we do not need foreigners in our security services, but having reviewed the situation, I thank God that they are. How did the community police repay the country during this time of crisis? By making marks on the doors of the army, police force and naturalised citizens’ houses so that these thugs could come in the dark of the night and attack them. I can’t even visualise the scary situation if these people would have been in our armed forces. We would have been doomed for sure.
2011C’est
‘Eunique’
Khalid Sultan
Hi Khalid, The great Mahatma Gandhi once said, “An eye for eye only ends up making the whole world blind.”
BAHRAIN BD1 KSA SR10 KUWAIT KD1 OMAN RO1 QATAR QR10 UAE DHS10
Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
BAHRAIN BD1 KSA SR10 KUWAIT KD1 OMAN RO1 QATAR QR10 UAE DHS10
8 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Issue
s
t i c Tr e a
C’est ‘Eunique’
98
Romant
Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!
Trendy Bahrain I like how you’ve come up with your own ‘Fashion Police’, but come on BC, give Bahrain some cred – don’t know about you but I don’t think you need to go beyond our shores as you can definitely find fashion forward and trendy people strutting their stuff here. Noor A.
2011
Hey there, Ok now, we get the drift, you want to be one of our judges then?
Not a Word??? Congratulations to you – I haven’t been a great follower of your magazine until now. I thought last month’s edition was stunning.
But hello why didn’t anyone else write about what is happening – were they not here? I think you’ve raised the bar and no doubt others will follow – but in your footsteps. You have another loyal reader – ME. Geeee Thank you for once – we’re speechless ….
Did You Really? Wasn’t exactly convinced that a luxury magazine like you would send someone to go to … Ethiopia?! Must have been quite a challenge eh? But then again, I haven’t been so can’t really say much besides I’m envious that you get to go to exotic places. Tamara Chiu Dear Tamara, Trust us when we say the place was gorgeous … so yeah, eat your heart out!
Hail to Bahrain Have to say well done to you guys for ‘saying something’ about the recent news in Bahrain. I know you guys aren’t politically inclined in the first place, but so are the other magazines in the island – who I dare say never bothered to acknowledge the current situation in the kingdom. I’m pretty sure they had some time to ‘adjust’ things before publication. Just shows you are more in touch with your roots as a company I think. This is our home after all. Graham O Cheers Graham! We managed to stretch and cram everything within our deadlines to make sure we reflected the mood of the country. We have to admit it was a bit of a mad scramble taking out upcoming events from our pages as they were being cancelled one after another following recent events.
Fashion
Black and silver Swarovski rose fascinator: by Liv Free available at www.etsy.com Necklace: Primark Dress: ASOS REVIVE Jet Embellished Mini shift dress: available at www.asos.com
80 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Fashion
Black and silver Swarovski Rose fascinator: by Liv Free available at www.etsy.com Necklace: Primark Dress: ASOS REVIVE Jet Embellished Mini shift dress available at www.asos.com Black beaded choker styled as a bracelet: Stylist’s own April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 81
Fashion
Mask: Bespoke mask by Rusana Rahman contact on www.rusanastylist.com Lace blouse: Stylist’s own Feather bangle: New Look Ring: New Look Necklace: Topshop
82 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Fashion
Black and silver Swarovski Rose fascinator: by Liv Free available at www.etsy.com Necklace: Primark Dress:Â ASOS REVIVE Jet Embellished Mini shift dress available at www.asos.com
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 83
Fashion Dress: Aqua Lloyd Sequin Maxi Dress available from www.asos.com Ring: Brick Lane Market, London
Team Stylist: Rusana Rahman Photographer: Ksenia Belash Assistant Photographer: Tabula Rasa Make up: Aga Borowa Hair Stylist: Evgeniya Vlasova Model: Anastasia Filina @ Profile Model Management, London.
84 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
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You can now read our magazines virtually at
www.FashionArabia.net .net
for free at the beginning of every month! Join our other 50,000 online readers and catch the latest articles, events, photographs and fantastic competitions that are being featured in any one of our four titles;
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Do you want more? Well then visit www.ConfidentialArabia.com and peruse our online newsletter every two weeks and get even more up-to-date news on fashion, beauty, celebrity gossip, what to do and special offers. If you would like to promote your services or talent email info@ArabianMagazines.com and you could be featured in our next newsletter or title.
et
Mamas and Papas
is located in Bahrain City Centre.
Mamas and Papas
Geox
The Geox Spring/Summer collection consists of an array of fashionable shoes for children and babies. Geox is located in Bahrain City Centre.
Carolina Herrera
Mamas and Papas
The children’s Spring/ Summer collection features loose cuts with a unisex air and a relaxed style presented in light fabrics such as cotton and linen, sailor stripes, liberty prints and safari designs take centre stage. Carolina Herrera is located in Bahrain City Centre.
BD63
Mamas and Papas
The new collection is now available featuring several collections including ‘Drummer Boy,’ ‘Gypsy Tatters,’ and the ‘B is for Blue’ baby range.
Don’t Forget The
BD44
Carolina Herrera Okaidi
Mamas and Papas
Carolina Herrera
BD30
Carolina Herrera
Mamas and Papas
Shopping
Kids! Obaidi
Geox
Geox
Designed for warmer months, the new Spring/ Summer collection is fashionable, well designed and wearable for both boys and girls. For the tots there is an abundance of classic baby pinks and blues. Okaidi and Obaidi are located in Bahrain City Centre.
Geox
Okaidi
Obaidi and Okaidi
Obaidi Prices may vary.
86 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
For other products, prices are available on request.
Gossip
New Mum Nicole Kidman Due: Had Faith Margaret via surrogate in February Who’s the daddy? Country singer Keith Urban
New Mum Penelope Cruz Due: Gave birth to a boy Leonardo in February Who’s the daddy? Actor Javier Bardem
Myleene Klass Due: This month Who’s the daddy? Former rugby player Graham Quinn
Penelope Cruz
Emma Bunton
New Mum Christina Applegate Due: Gave birth to Sadie Grace LeNoble in January Who’s the daddy? Musician Martyn Lenoble
Myleene Klass
Selma Blair Due: Summer Who’s the daddy? Fashion designer Jason Bleick
Selma Blair
Emma Bunton Due: May Who’s the daddy? Singer Jade Jones
Christina Applegate
Pink
Nicole Kidman
Pink Due: Summer Who’s the daddy? Professional motocross racer Carey Hart
Motherhood: Jane Krakowski
Jane Krakowski Due: Summer Who’s the daddy? Fashion designer Robert Godley
Hollywood’s Latest Trend
Bahrain Confidential is always on trend but we think this may be one we will skip for now, as the latest craze in Hollywood appears to be the baby bump. Alicia Silverstone
Marion Cotillard Due: This month Who’s the daddy? Actor/director Guillaume Cane
Alicia Silverstone
Marion Cotillard
Jennifer Connelly Due: June Who’s the daddy? Actor Paul Bettany
Jennifer Connelly
Laila Ali Due: This month Who’s the daddy? Former NFL player Curtis Conway
Kate Hudson Due: June Who’s the daddy? Muse frontman Matthew Bellamy Kate Hudson
Laila Ali
Due: Summer Who’s the daddy? Musician Christopher Jarecki
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 87
Beauty
Beauty Buzz
The Body Shop
At The Body Shop you can find a beautiful fragrance to suit every different taste, from Japanese Cherry Blossom to White Musk and fruity Strawberry. Each gift set has shower gel, eau de toilette, body butter and a bath lily all in one elegant package. Available exclusively at The Body Shop.
BD18
BD3.6
BD31.5 for 50ml
Rimmel Vinyl Gloss
Rimmel’s iconic lip gloss, Vinyl Gloss, now has a great shine magnifying formula for beautiful juicy looking lips that are bursting with colour. The formula also boasts incredible light refraction and high colour retention for incredibly sexy lips that are sure to catch attention. It’s the ultimate in glossy glamour with lips up to 40 per cent curvier.
Vanitas Versace
Vanitas Versace eau de parfum was made by a rich tiare flower sublimated by lime and fressia and enveloped by sensual accents of cedar wood and tonka bean.
BD10.5 BD8.5 Clinique Chubby Stick
Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturising Lip Colour Balm’s highly moisturising formula uses a special blend of butters, oils and antioxidants to help protect and pamper lips with immediate and lasting moisturisation. Infused with Shea Butter, Mango Seed Butter and Jojoba Seed Oil, Chubby Stick delivers a surge of moisture in a sleek stick leaving lips soft, supple and soothed. Available at Clinique counters.
88 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Stylishly Yours by M.A.C
“This collection is all about customising make-up to suit your needs. You can be soft and gentle or dramatic and glamorous. Let your mood be your guide!” Available from the M.A.C store in Bahrain City Centre.
*Unless otherwise stated, all products are available at leading cosmetic outlets or beauty salons.
BD8.75
Beauty BD3.7
BD3.8
Paris Ballerine
Bourjois pays tribute to its early love of theatre and stage by highlighting the ballerina. The new fashion icon plays with smoky eye shades: delicate pink contrasts with intense black. The stage is set with original shades: deceptively innocent pink and bluish grey, so rock and chic. The complexion and lips are discreetly illuminated in nude and pink, leaving the eyes and nails under the spotlight.
Revlon Photo Ready Compact Make-Up
The Revlon Photo Ready Compact Make-Up collection includes powder and foundation. It uses photochromatic pigments giving you flawless skin in any light.
BD5.3 Immortelle
Immortelle is the flower that never fades. Bellis perennis is the flower of the light. When these two flowers were brought together, the Immortelle Brightening range was born - the perfect solution to keep skin young-looking and even-toned. L’Occitane is in Bahrain City Centre.
BD28.1 BD24
Mauboussin
Mauboussin is launching its latest creation, a fragrance Pour Elle, with notes of rhubarb, rose, red fruits and jasmine, complemented by amber and sandalwood scents, and composed by master perfumer, Olivier Cresp jointly with Nathalie Lorson.
BD27 Guerlain Terracotta Serum
Guerlain’s Terracotta Serum: the first Tan Booster concentrate with tan-accelerating action. Activates, intensifies and prolongs your tan.
Promotion at
Felda Cut & Style
For each cut and colour treatment, get one of these for free: Power Treatment (Powerdose and Power Repair B) – hair treatment using L’Oreal Professional products for smooth and healthy results. Includes a light head massage for relaxation; Manicure – includes a specialised hand scrub mixture to gently exfoliate dull skin on hands and nails. Tel. +973 1722 4077 for more information.
BD17
Elixir Ultime
Kérastase has brought out Elixir Ultime - a beautifying oil enriched with a complex of four precious oils.
*Unless otherwise stated, all products are available at leading cosmetic outlets or beauty salons. April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 89
We ' ve had 30 years to prepare for your nine months As a mum to be, your thoughts are consumed by excitement, worry and those many aspirations you have for your baby. We know this because we’ve felt it too. Since 1981, inspired by our own journey to parenthood, we’ve been committed to mothers every step of the way – from baby bump to bumper cars. At Mamas & Papas, enjoy our offers, benefits and rewards, and trust that everything you and your baby need will be taken care of. Register online or at our stores, and pick up your Supermum vouchers on maternity and baby wear, furniture, toys and more. With Mamas & Papas, when you’re expecting, you can always expect a little more. Having a baby is wonderful.
Bahrain: Seef Mall, Manama Tel: +973 17581877. Talk to our in-store sales advisors or associates for help with your purchase. Call us at any of our stores or log on to www.mamasandpapas-me.ae for more details.
Beauty
Fraxel Treatment Photography courtesy of Solta Medical Aesthetic Centre
We all want radiant, young-looking and blemish-free skin; and for many, it takes more than the usual home regimen to get rid of unsightly skin imperfections.
Before restore face and neck
A
ccording to Dr Dean Cunha Gomes, Consultant on Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Cosmetology Department, Royal Bahrain Hospital, “you can uncover the skin of your youth� with the Fraxel treatment - a non-invasive laser skin treatment that can resurface damaged skin, with minimal impact on your daily routine. Fraxel re:store treatment can return your skin to its original beauty and texture, rejuvenating your skin and correcting skin imperfections such as wrinkles around the eyes, acne scars and surgical scars, age spots/sunspots, melasma (irregular patches of brown skin on the forehead,
90 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
3 months post 1 treatment
cheeks, upper lip and nose) and actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions). So what does the treatment involve? Fraxel re:store laser uses patented technology to target ageing and sun damaged skin with microscopic laser columns that penetrate into the skin. There are two laser treatment modes. One delivers the microscopic laser columns deep into the skin and the second delivers it to the superficial skin layers. The difference? The first treatment mode penetrates deep into the skin layers, specifically targeting wrinkles or acne scarring. The second mode effectively targets sun spots, age spots, skin tone and texture - all of which are more superficial signs of ageing.
Is it safe? As with any laser treatment, there are some potential side effects. The most common effects are swelling and redness, which are typically minimal and subside quickly. The procedure takes 20 to 25 minutes for a full face, and most people return to routine activities the very next day. Most men and women experience immediate results and see the most benefit in three to five treatments. The Fraxel re:store treatment safely and effectively removes years from your appearance - so you get renewed skin and renewed confidence! ďƒœ For appointments or further inquiries about Fraxel and other cosmetic treatments, call Dr Dean Cunha Gomes, Cosmetology Department, Royal Bahrain Hospital. Tel. +973 1724 6856.
Beauty
Frequently asked questions: What’s new about the Fraxel re:store Dual procedure? The new non-ablative Fraxel re:store Dual system takes industry leading Fraxel technology to the highest level of effectiveness by adding a new laser wavelength that is optimised to treat pigment and other surface skin imperfections. The new wavelength is more comfortable, and now for the first time Fraxel can be used on larger treatment areas and multiple body areas in a single treatment.
How long does the Fraxel re:store Dual procedure take? The treatment takes 20 to 25 minutes for a full face with additional time for anesthetic application.
What does the Fraxel re:store Dual procedure feel like? Most patients describe an increased sensation of heat during the treatment. To minimise discomfort, topical anesthesia is applied before the procedure and cooling is built directly into the new handpiece for improved patient comfort. After the treatment, most patients feel like they have sunburn which usually subsides in one to three hours.
How long will the results last? It depends on your particular condition and how you care for your skin. Once your skin is treated, continue to protect the surface as directed. For conditions such as melasma, it is very important to avoid direct sun exposure. Your physician will give you specific advice based on your individual needs.
What will my skin feel like after the procedure? After the procedure, you will have some degree of redness, swelling or sunburn sensations, which are signs that your body’s natural healing process is building new skin from the inside out.
Is the Fraxel re:store Dual procedure safe? Fraxel has an excellent safety record. Of course, as with any procedure there’s always some risk. Your physician can discuss this with you during consultation. How much does the Fraxel re:store Dual procedure cost? The cost for the Fraxel procedure depends on the areas being treated. The physician will discuss his or her fees with the patient at the time of the consultation. Is Fraxel re:store Dual FDA cleared? The Fraxel laser has been approved by the FDA to treat multiple skin conditions, including age/sun spots, acne scarring, melasma (the mask of pregnancy) and periorbital wrinkles (crow’s feet). The Fraxel re:store’s new laser wavelength is pending FDA 510(k) clearance
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 91
Health
Health Siesta for the Heart
Having an afternoon nap can help protect against heart disease, a study has suggested. Researchers say that having a 45-minute catnap helps lower a person’s blood pressure more quickly after a stressful event. And with the average night’s sleep now two hours shorter than it was 50 years ago, researchers claim having a siesta provides a simple way of improving cardiovascular health. “Our findings suggest that daytime sleep may offer cardiovascular benefit by accelerating cardiovascular recovery following mental stressors,” said study authors Ryan Brindle and Sarah Conklin, PhD.
Updates
www.telegraph.co.uk
Are Fish Pedicures Dangerous?
The popular ‘fish pedicure’ may not be safe when it comes to health concerns, believes the British Health Protection Agency. According to the agency, the pedicure may be a vehicle for spreading disease from person to person through open wounds. The pedicure which uses toothless ‘Garra Rufa’, fish that nibble on dead skin has become a trendy option in spas all over the world. Currently, some states in the US have banned the pedicure with concern over the same fish being used to clean multiple customers.
Ibuprofen Reduces Parkinson’s
Research funded by the Michael J Fox Foundation has suggested that those who take ibuprofen on a regular basis have a lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. After studying over 135,000 people who use the anti-inflammatory regularly, results showed they were 40 per cent less likely to develop the disease. The news comes to light after another recent study showed that ibuprofen could reduce the chances of a stroke. Experts say it is too early to tell whether the benefits of ibuprofen outweigh the side effects of taking it for a prolonged amount of time.
92 | Bahrain Confidential | April 2011
Health
Think Before You Shop
Results from a new study conducted by the University of Arizona show that shopping trolleys are dirtier than shop toilets. After testing 85 trolley handles in four different states in America, the study revealed that 72 per cent of the handles contained traces of fecal bacteria with some even testing positive for E. coli. “That’s more than what you find in a supermarket’s restroom,” said lead researcher Charles Gerba. “That’s because they use disinfecting cleaners in the restrooms. Nobody routinely cleans and disinfects shopping carts.” It is recommended to use a disinfecting wipe before placing your child into a trolley basket.
Less Salt Please
Salt has been proven to slow down the blood flow in your arteries within just half an hour. Studies carried out in Australia showed how consuming four grams of salt stiffens the blood vessels and restricts blood flow. On average, families in Britain consume more than four grams during their main meal, especially if they are eating out or consuming readymade products. Health experts have said that by cutting salt consumption to a few grams a day, strokes can be reduced by 22 per cent and heart attacks by 16 per cent.
Passive Smoking and Breast Cancer
A study in the US suggests that girls subject to passive smoking have a higher risk of getting breast cancer when they are older. The study conducted on nearly 80,000 women found the risk of developing breast cancer was three times more likely if they had passive smoked from a young age. If the woman had been exposed to decades of passive smoking during childhood, at home and at work then they had an increased risk of 32 per cent to develop the disease. Data shows that very year 600,000 people die globally from smoking, a third of them are children.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 93
Living
Earth Day: April 22nd With Earth Day coming up and Earth Hour just passed, we at BC thought we should pay some homage to these important world events by filling you in on what’s going on right here in Bahrain. Our message to you? Let’s leave our world as we found it and take care of our planet because it’s the only one we’ve got.
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Living
Lights Out To Save The Planet
I
n recognition of Earth Hour - a global initiative where cities and towns around the world switch off their lights for an hour - Marriott Executive Apartments Manama in Bahrain participated for the third consecutive year. The hour, which took place last month, supports the idea of sending a powerful message that it is time to take action on global warming and make a long term commitment to do more for Planet Earth. The Marriott Executive Apartments switched off all non-essential lightings on the 26th March for one hour, between 8.30pm to 9.30pm. Staff lit candles in
O
n Saturday 26th March at 8.30pm, millions of people in cities across the planet turned off their lights for one hour to show the world that the solution to the threat of global warming is possible through collective action and Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain was part of this historic moment. This move came in line with the Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts Sustainability programme. As a preparation the hotel ensured all current and future guests were given information on this initiative to contribute on global climate resolution. Earth Hour 2011, and indeed preceding Earth Hours, aimed to illustrate the actions that people, businesses and governments worldwide are taking to reduce their environmental impact thereby establishing and encouraging others to join an interconnected global community engaged in dialogue and resource sharing that generates real solutions to environmental challenges. The highlight of Earth Hour is to see the world’s most iconic landmarks
the lobby and the restaurant, ‘Skyw@ lk Cafe’, and held a candle-lit dinner for guests to enjoy a special night while reducing energy consumption. The exterior lightings of the twin-tower building were also turned off, and residents and guests were also advised to switch off or dim any non-essential interior lightings and other electrical devices. After the hour, the amount of energy saved was measured and recorded accordingly by a team of experts. The slogan of Earth Hour 2011 “Beyond the Hour”, marked the start of a new phase of the Earth Hour Movement which asks people to commit to an action,
big or small, which they will sustain for the future of Planet Earth. “This is a great opportunity for Marriott Hotels and business units around the world to demonstrate our environmental commitment to associates, guests, owners, franchisees and communities worldwide. Marriott International designates April as “Environmental Awareness Month” to communicate and celebrate the company’s commitment to environmentally responsible operations, raise awareness of environmental issues, and involve associates in environmental activities,” said Bill Marriott, Chairman and CEO of Marriott International.
“We’ve Signed
Up To Switch Off”
go dark for one designated hour, as hundreds of millions of people transcend race, religion, culture, society, generation and geography, switching off their lights in a global celebration of their commitment to protect the one thing that unites us all - the planet.
The Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain asks everyone to show their support for future Earth Hours by signing up at www. earthhour.org and join other hotels, businesses, local councils, governments and non-government organisations in this simple but significant initiative.
April 2011 | Bahrain Confidential | 95
Opinion
The Power Of
Eng. Rehan Ahmed
Earth Hour
Bahrain Confidential’s environmentalist Rehan Ahmed explains how Earth Hour has become more than just an annual event.
E
arth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia and was conceived by World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). On the occasion, 2.2 million individuals and more than 2,000 businesses turned their lights off for one hour to take a stand against climate change. Only a year later the Earth Hour had become a global sustainability movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries participating. Global landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, CN Tower in Toronto, Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and Rome’s Colosseum, all stood in darkness, as symbols of hope for a cause that grows more urgent by the hour. In March 2009, hundreds of millions of people took part in the third Earth Hour. Over 4,000 cities in 88 countries officially switched off to pledge their support for the planet, making Earth Hour 2009 the world’s largest global climate change initiative. On 27th March, 2010 Earth Hour was practiced in a record 128 countries and territories and more than 6,000 cities joined the global display of climate action with over one billion people participating. Iconic buildings and landmarks from Asia Pacific to Europe and Africa to the Americas switched off. In the United States alone an estimated 90 million Americans joined in. The Kingdom of Bahrain also formally joined the movement in 2010 and many major buildings, organisations and hotels had their lights turned off for an hour saving 20 megawatts of electricity. Many colourful programmes
were also held to mark the occasion. Earth Hour 2011 took place on 26 March at 8.30pm, whereby lights were switched off around the globe and again drew more participants as compared to the last year. During Earth Hour, people across the world, from all walks of life, turn off their lights and come together in celebration and contemplation of one thing we all have in common – our planet. The continuity of the Earth Hour celebration is a global call for action to every individual, every business and every community. It is a call to stand up, to show leadership and be responsible for our future.
Simple Ideas • Turn your computer off when you finish work for the day and turn your monitor off during your breaks • Turn off any unnecessary and additional lighting at your place of work and residence, especially when you leave a room • Use energy-efficient lights (LED, CFL etc.) • Unplug electronic appliances when not in use • Use heating and cooling only when absolutely necessary and adjust the thermostat to a comfortable level • Additional heating can be compensated by wearing warmer clothes and using a fan can reduce the need to lower room temperatures
“All stood in darkness, as symbols of hope for a cause that grows more urgent by the hour.”
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The recent Earth Hour celebrated has gone beyond the hour, so now, after the lights go back on, participants are thinking about what else one can do to make a difference. We are all beginning to believe that ‘together our actions add up’. The awareness created has given enough reasons to join this campaign and make energy conservation a habit rather than an annual event. We need to understand that we have a major responsibility of conserving our planet’s resources, since they are fragile, finite and each of us can make a difference if we choose to do so. So let us each make a change which, though it may sound small, will cumulatively add to significant levels in energy conservation
In Chicago, USA, the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) developed lighting guidelines to reduce light pollution and the carbon footprint of downtown buildings. Many buildings worldwide have started powering down extra lights after peak hours each night and shutting neon and publicity signs earlier than usual. The message is this: ‘Let us go beyond an hour and do more of what we can to reduce energy consumption and its impact on the environment’.
Rehan Ahmed is a Senior Environmental Specialist, Directorate of Environmental Control, Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife, Bahrain (Email: rehan900@gmail.com)
Society
Society
Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Nutrition Talk with Alia Al Moayed at the British School
In keeping with their focus on ‘Healthy Eating, Healthy Lifestyle’ the British School of Bahrain invited Bahraini nutritionist Alia Al Moayed, for a talk with parents about their children’s nutrition last 10th March.
‘I Want Healthy Kids!’
Alia Al Moayed exposing different names for sugar
Colourful, healthy and delicious arrangements
Acting Director Karen Moffat welcomes Alia Al Moayed
Parents at the talk
Alia Al Moayed introduces herself to the parents
Batelco Supports World Renowned Mad Science Programme
Batelco Bahrain Chief Technical Officer John Ford attended the final ‘Get Connected with Batelco’ Mad Science programme, held recently at the British School of Bahrain (BSB).
Batelco CTO John Ford watching the BSB students having fun building a telephone network
A group of grade 6 British School children who participated in the ‘Get Connected with Batelco’ Mad Science workshop with the ‘Mad Scientists’, BSB and Batelco representatives.
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Building a telecom network at the Batelco Mad Science workshop at BSB
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Fusion Gallery Opening
10th March - FUSION – Opening Ceremony Khatton Alsari Fashion Show at Villa 1746, Road 1435, Hamala, 1014 Near British School, Hamala.
Attendees
Attendees
Attendees
Rebecca and Huda
Attendees
Aroma Café
28th February – Aroma Café’ Soft Opening at Seef Mall with Aroma Café Management and the Media.
Shah, Amit and Kundan
Ricky, Hassan, Ehab, Henry and Botrous
Mohammed Al Saffor, Reem, Fatema and Mohammed Al Kahbi
Aziza, Mohammed, Sola and Partick
Gassan, Hassan and Ibrahim
Juby Poulose and Paul Poulose
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