Bahrain Confidential

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

111 Issue

UNIF1ED, F1 Fever!

Personalities

Gearing Up For F1 All You Need to Know Motoring

New In Town!

Bahrain’s Latest Venues

Party Spectacular Out and About BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20

The Hottest Nights Out

Polka Dot Blouse

BD 15

www.marksandspencerme.com

Bahrain: Seef Mall, Manama, Tel: 1758 8188

Contents

34

March 2012 • Issue 111

Competitions

56 Win A Makeover 113 Mövenpick BBQ Under the Stars

- Dinner Voucher for Two

People 32 40

113

David Hollywood - Poetry Page Anurage Bajaj - Elite Resort and Spa General Manager Chef Alfred Zuberbuehler at Mövenpick Hotel

Opinion 44 78

128

A Matter of Taste - Juni Capulong Celebrating World Water Day - Eng. Rehan Ahmed On The Finer Points Of Discourse - Moh’d Al Rasheed

Fashion and Shopping 36 47 48

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas - eSKay Jewellery Spring/Summer Trends - Saks Fifth Avenue Victoria’s Secret Accessories

Beauty, Health & Well Being 66 68 71

Ask the Doctor with Dr Dean Cunha Gomes Health Updates ‘The Right Relationship’ - Kelly Armatage

Juicy Pickings 4 6 10 20 79 108 127

Editor’s Letter Readers’ Letters Not to be Missed!

New in Town Society Looking for a Home!

Horoscopes

Cars

104 BMW 3 Series 106 Nissan Sunny 107 Jeep Wrangler

Staying In and Going Out 114 Bushido 118 K Lounge 115 InterContinental Regency

Essential Listings

120 Recommended Restaurants, Nightspots, Essential Info, Beauty Spots, Sports and Fitness, Clubs and Associations

Bahrain Animal Production Show

7250 A ‘Tail’ of Survival Pet Arabia

A Dance In Time - Venetian Shoot

EditL Online edition

1 p FornF Gearing UA lo e

t ashionArabia.ne

at www.F

hion! ury and fas abian life, lux Guide to Ar

111 Issue

Dear Readers, UNIF1ED,

Cover Credits: ‘Going Alone’ by Rashid Al Khalifa

F1 Fever!

p For F1 Gearing U to Know All You Need wn!

To Newin’sIn es Latest Venu Bahra ar ul Party Spettectstac Nights Out

s

Personalitie

Motoring

The Ho

t

Out and Abou

BAHRAIN BD2

T KD2 OMAN

KSA SR20 KUWAI

RO2 QATAR

Publishers: Editor in Chief: Assistant Editor: Editorial: Art Design: Contributors

Dr Mohd. Al Rasheed Eng. Rehan Ahmed Dr Dean Cunha Gomes Faisal Ebrahim Kelly Armatage Juni Capulong David Hollywood

Proofreader

QR20 UAE DHS20

Nicholas & Rebecca Cooksey Rebecca Cooksey Karina Lazarraga Layla Crocker Noel De Juan, Dhanraj S. Administration

Redia Castillo Nikesh Pola

Photographer Shareef Panhatt Sales Account Manager Basel Qabouq Jehan Mohamed

Karina Lazarraga

C ’est

Distribution Distribution Executive Mohammed Yousif Muhammed Shareef P. Regional Sales-Point Distribution Bahrain: Al Hilal Corporation

Tel. +973 1748 0800 UAE: Jashanmals Tel. +971 4341 9757

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

For Advertising Opportunities: Tel. +973 1782 2368 Email: sales@ArabianMagazines.com Published by:

A Division of C.G. Arabia W.L.L. P.O. Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. Tel. +973 1782 2388, Fax. +973 1772 1722 Email: info@ArabianMagazines.com Website: www.ArabianMagazines.com Ministry of Information approval no. ISDN 99901-01-17-5 © Copyright 2008, C.G. Arabia W.L.L. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Printed at Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej, Bahrain.

This month we are carrying on from ‘All Things Italian’ back in February as we feature an incredible Venetian shoot with mesmerising costumes and masks on display. The models were flown over from Italy especially for the Venetian Ball held at the beginning of last month.On the cultural side of things, you’ll notice that our cover features the latest body of work by Shaikh Rashid Al Khalifa from his recent exhibition, ‘Reflection’. Turn to our Art section for our exclusive interview with the master artist himself.

The Spring of Culture has come around again and boy are we excited about the big names coming this year, Andrea Bocelli and Julio Iglesias are just some of the amazing acts performing throughout this month so be sure to check out more of the line-up in this edition.

Don’t forget about Mara’ee Bahrain Animal Production Show towards the end of the month, a week of entertainment featuring exotic animals and beautiful horse shows.

We have a really special treat for our readers this month. In collaboration with Pet Arabia we have some wonderful pet rescue stories with abandoned dogs, cats and even ferrets, all dressed in adorable outfits with their owners who rescued them. Be prepared to bring out the tissues for these sob stories! Oh, and remember to check our pet pages and see if you can provide a loving home to these animals in need.

March is also jam-packed with DJs and parties on the Island so make sure to check out our Not To Be Missed section which has its very own page dedicated to all of the parties. One of our lucky readers also got to interview dance legend Paul Oakenfold at his recent concert in Dubai, read the exciting interview and find out what he would be doing if he wasn’t performing in front of millions around the world!

This month also marks Mother’s Day, so we made sure we gave you not-so-subtle hints for what to give. Show your love and appreciation with exquisite pieces from eSKay Jewellery or leaf through our Shopping and Beauty section to help you find the perfect gift.

Our very own Juni Capulong continues with his column ‘A Matter of Taste’ about finding the perfect wedding dress, sharing his secrets about the best tailors and how to find a dress to suit your shape.

Dr Dean Gomes discusses the importance of skin care now the weather is beginning to warm up and Life Coach Kelly Armatage helps us to find ‘The Right Relationship.’

Not to forget, we also feature two fabulous ladies this month who are Think Pink Makeover winners. See their magical transformation and them strutting their stuff in our fun-filled photoshoot.

We wish all of our readers a fantastic month ...

The Confidential Team

Readers’ Letters

Dear Editor ...

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

111 Issue

UNIF1ED, F1 Fever!

Personalities

Gearing Up For F1 All You Need to Know

New In Town!

Motoring

Bahrain’s Latest Venues

Party Spectacular The Hottest Nights Out

Out and About 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!

110 Issue

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

Amwaj Experience

Live the Island Dream

Review On The New 911 Porsche: The Iconic Supercar

Get Rid Of Cellulite Forever

Win BD400 Worth of the Latest AntiCellulite Treatments

The Ultimate Party

this month with the world’s TOP Bahrain Soc

iety

Interviews

Ali Al Fardan

DJs Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

109 Issue

New in Town

Bahrain’s Latest Venues

Drop A Dress Size In An Instant

New Year, New Motor

Win, Win, Win s The Ultimate Makeover s A Pair of Diamond Watches s VIP Tickets to Bushido Featuring Akcent

2012 Hot Car Launches

New Venues - Boudoir

Celebrities

Celebrations

Out and About

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

6 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

ManyUp thanks Gearing For F1to all of you who wrote in last month and apologies if your

Alone

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 info@ArabianMagazines.com

I loved reading your colourful article about Italian carnivals. The masks and outfits are so beautiful and I really am considering going to Venice to experience this amazing event and soak up the atmosphere. It is a great idea to bring the concept to Bahrain and hold a masked ball too and I am sure it was a very popular event. I may even hold my own ball to celebrate next year; thanks for inspiring me Bahrain Confidential!

Italy Enthusiast

C’est

Ah yes, the fantastic ‘mardi gras’.

Parades, masquerade balls, entertainment and parties galore! I bet a visit to Italy during this time is so exciting and if booths filled with exotic animals, ropewalkers and jugglers aren’t exciting enough for you then we don’t know what is!

Is it just me or was the month of February filled with far more parties than usual?! Not that I’m complaining! I had so many options how to celebrate Valentine’s Day too from your indepth gastro and nightlife section; thanks for making my life easier!

Busy-body Yes there certainly was a lot going on last month on this little Island, we barely sat down for the most part!

‘Between Two Seas’ was a great feature last month, what stunning photography. I didn’t know half of those places even existed in Bahrain! The colours were incredible and I loved the disappearing Island. I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy for myself …

Terri Richards It is a great concept and should also help to promote Bahrain overseas. Hopefully every Bahrain Embassy around the world will get their hands on a copy and it will encourage tourists to see the real beauty of this Island.

I found your main feature on Amwaj very impressive. There was so much information

packed in but it didn’t look crowded. Amwaj Islands really does have everything you could ever need in one place, no wonder so many people who live there rarely leave …

Island-Fever There certainly is plenty to keep you busy in Amwaj that’s for sure. You’re not a resident by any chance are you?

It was great to read about both Dr Pierre and Dr Dean talking about the controversial issue of the PIP implants last month. It is such an important topic and has affected many people, thousands in Europe. It’s nice to hear doctors’ opinions about any health impacts that breast implants could have on a patient and to give advice on what to look out for, rather than focusing on less important topics about the faulty implants when health should be a priority.

Martha With the scandal being all over the news recently and with it affecting so many people, the doctors thought it would be a good idea to bring the issue up last month to put people’s minds at rest and to show that there are some safer treatments available. Let’s hope this scandal is fixed quickly!

I just wanted to make a point of saying that Alosra’s decision to support Bahrain’s local producers is fantastic. In the past I have been slightly apprehensive on buying in bulk from the supermarket as many products have high transportation costs. Now that ‘Think Local’ has come along supporting Bahrain’s economy and with fresher produce grown just around the corner, it will be one of the first places I visit for my weekly shop now.

Lynne, Saar We have to agree with you Lynne, hopefully this new initiative will make a difference now that a lot of Alosra’s fresh produce is sourced from local farms. This will also reduce environmental impacts and import costs, a great idea all round!

Gossip

News

Check out what’s happening in the celebrity world ...

mother Cissy and Whitney’s daughter Bobbi Kristina, 18, looked on from the front row. The service closed with Whitney’s greatest hit ‘I Will Always Love You’. Her casket was watched by ten security guards before her body was buried alongside her father John Houston.

Adele

Victoria Beckham Defends her ‘Look’

She has never been one for smiling in photographs and in a new interview, the designer and mother-of-four explains that she is not moody, but simply exhausted.

The 37-year-old says, “Look, if people want to say I’m miserable then so be it.

I’m really not. I have a lot on my plate. I’m really tired but I’m also very happy with my life. I’m basically just like any woman who’s working and has lots of children – it’s tough.” Victoria also explained that the stress of planning her Autumn/Winter 2012 collection for New York Fashion Week and caring for baby Harper had taken its toll.

Whitney Houston

Stars Flock to Whitney Houston’s Funeral

Some of the world’s biggest stars attended Whitney Houston’s funeral in Newark, New Jersey, including Chaka Khan, Mariah Carey, Roberta Flack, Kevin Costner and Oprah Winfrey. With the world watching, the service took place exactly a week after the singer was found dead in a bathtub at the Beverly Hilton hotel. Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys and R. Kelly gave heartfelt performances as

Celebrity Tweets Lady Gaga

What a beautiful night the Grammy’s was, Adele deserved every award she won and perhaps an extra one for being such a kind and lovely woman.

Adele Wins Big at Grammy’s

Adele has scooped six Grammy awards at one of the biggest nights in music.

The 23-year-old won all six categories she was nominated in, scooping song of the year for ‘Rolling in the Deep’. She also received a Grammy each for ‘Best Pop Solo Performance’ for ‘Someone Like You’, ‘Best Pop Vocal Album’ and ‘Album of the Year’ for ‘21’, and ‘Record of the Year’ and ‘Best Short Form Music Video’ for ‘Rolling in the Deep’. She already has two Grammy awards from the 2009 Awards and is now matched only by global superstar Beyonce for the most Grammy wins in a night by a female act.

Dane Cook

If a girl likes you she’ll show it by never showing it.

That’s when you really know. It could also mean she doesn’t like you at all.

Usher

I love those who can smile in trouble, who can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection ... better yourself from yesterday!

8 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Blake Lively

Victoria Beckham

Gossip Girl Star Takes Out Restraining Order

Actress Blake Lively, 24, was forced to get a restraining order against one fan after he was said to be hanging around the set of ‘Gossip Girl’. It has been claimed the man named Sergei Mifle contacted Blake’s mother Elaine on several occasions and Blake is said to have said in her application for the restraining order that she fears for the safety of herself and her mother. Mifle’s harassing and stalking behaviour has steadily intensified between 1st February and the present causing Lively and her mother significant distress and anxiety.

Blake’s wish was granted by a judge and Mifle is not allowed to come within 100 yards of the actress or Elaine Lively.

Experience a World of Exquisite Flavours at MODA Mall's Gourmet Festival An authentic taste of Japanese sashimi. A whiff of rich Lebanese spices. Fine cuisine from the piazzas of Italy. With a stunning menu of restaurants and a range of international cafés, it’s all here for you to savour at MODA Mall.

Come indulge during the spectacular MODA Gourmet Festival from February 29 to March 24, 2012, with fabulous promotions and luxury prizes. Experience a world of flair and flavour, served up on a silver platter.

Participating Outlets Fine Cuisine: !BD %L 7AHAB s "I#% 2ISTORANTE s 'OLESTAN s -AKI s 3OIE Specialty Cafés: #ARIBOU #OFFEE s #OSTA #OFFEE s )LLY #AFÏ s ,INAgS s 0ATISSERIE 6ALERIE

Bahrain World Trade Center, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain www.modabwtc.com, Tel.:1753 5140 facebook.com/modamall

twitter.com/MODA_Mall

d e s s i M What’s On

e B o T t No

- 119 0 1 1 s e g a turn to p e f i l t h g i n rties & a p , o r t s a g vents, For more e

7th - 18th International Poetry Festival

All Month ‘Reflection’, A Solo Exhibition by

The ‘Spring of Poetry’ is an international poetry festival organised by Le Printemps des Poètes, supported by the French Ministry of Culture and French Ministry of Education.

Poems will be read in French, English and Arabic and will start at 7.30pm.

Tel. +973 1768 3295.

Rashid Al Khalifa

On the occasion of the Arab Capital of Culture, the Bahrain Financial Harbour Fine Arts Gallery presents ‘Reflection’, a solo exhibition of new works by Rashid Al Khalifa.

The theme ‘Reflection’ is a concept that reveals the artist’s introspection, memories that have shaped his identity, an inner monologue that creates self-awareness, consciousness, awakening and life.

Visit rashidalhalifa.com

Amwaj Marina Market

3rd March Amwaj Marina Market

‘Diversity from the Arab World’

Head down to the Amwaj Marina Market as they feature a variety of goods that are sure to take your fancy. Stalls are rented out for a competitive price and can be shared.

Tel. +973 1603 0605.

4th March - 4th April ‘Diversity from the Arab World’

8th - 9th ‘The Art of Giving’ Charity Event

Blossom Events introduce its first fusion of an art and charity-based event, ‘The Art of Giving’ to be held at the Lagoon, Amwaj Islands. Participants will be from a wide range of categories including painters, graphic designers, photographers and architects. Proceeds will go to an allocated charity in Bahrain and the event will be held from 3 to 11pm. Visit the Blossom Events Bahrain Facebook page or Tel. +973 3993 4446 or 3887 3805.

10th Dog Walk and Car Boot Sale

The Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre will be holding a sponsored dog walk and car boot sale for Tony the Dogfather.

The event will take place at the Bahrain Rugby Club with live entertainment, food and beverages. Registration begins at 9am and the walk and car boot sale both start at 10am. The price is BD5 per car and BD10 for dogs. Tel. +973 3962 9889.

10 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Rashid Al Khalifa

Exhibition at Albareh

Albareh Art Gallery present ‘Diversity from the Arab World’. The concept behind the show is to expose different modes of expressions that are available and introduce new artists and talents to the Bahrain audience. The works presented will have a contemporary edge and will include a mix of paintings, photography, sculptures as well as video art.

The official opening will be at 7pm.

Tel. +973 1771 7707 or visit www.albareh.com

Dog Walk and Car Boot Sale

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d e s s i M What’s On

e B o T t No

- 119 0 1 1 s e g a turn to p e f i l t h g i n rties & a p , o r t s a g vents, For more e 16th Coffee Morning

World Beat Fitness Centre will hold a Coffee Morning with guest speaker Dianne Klaimi, programme officer in the United Nations biodiversity conservation in the Arab region.

The topic ‘Into the Future; Living in Harmony with Nature’ is about food, health fibre and the economy. The talk will be from 9.45 to 11.30am. Entrance Fee: Members BD2, Non-members BD3 with light treats included. Tel. +973 1761 2576 or visit www.worldbeatfitness

17th Mural Art Exhibit

22nd

The Comedy Vendors Bahrain

The Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture and Heritage are holding an exhibition, Mahmoud Darwich’s Mural, a large scale multimedia art installation. It will open at the Bin Matar House and the artist has written over 30 books, translated into 40 languages, and was one of the great modern poets who had a fervent following throughout the Arab world.

Visitors will be able to experience this great writer’s poetry through recordings of his work in his own voice. The event starts at 4pm.

Punchline Media presents this comedy show featuring Imran Al Aradi, Rami Salame and Khalid Khalifa at the Golden Tulip Hotel Bahrain. Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8.30pm.

Tickets cost BD12 for gold seating and BD8 for silver and the event will be held in the Gilgamesh Ballroom.

Tel. +973 3971 8080 or email info@punchlineme.com

22nd and 24th Specialty Workshop

19th Mosaic 17th Cooking Lessons

The Shaikh Ebrahim Centre for Culture and Research are holding cooking lessons by the students with the objective to understand recipes. Bring your own ingredients and prepare a traditional dish.

The lessons are from 4 to 5pm, location TBC. Tel. +973 1732 2549.

A speciality ‘Analysing the Squat’ workshop will be held at the Pilates Bahrain Studio RCT. The Thursday sessions will be from 4 to 6pm for ladies only; and Saturdays will be a mixed class at the same time. Prices are BD20 and there is a maximum of 20 people per session.

Tel. +973 3944 5816 or visit www.pilatesbahrain.com

Workshop at Café Ceramique

In celebration of Café Ceramique’s second year anniversary, a beginner’s mosaic workshop is being held with Faiza Saeed.

The workshop will take place every Saturday of the month and is held from 4 to 6pm.

The price is BD60 a month per person.

Tel. +973 3932 9675.

30th Charity Walk

A charity walk and run will take place at Amir Khalifa bin Salman Park and is organised

by Adnan Alqassab. Money raised will go to Bahrain Cancer Society and the Ria Autism Centre and sporting events are open to men and women under the theme of promoting health in the family. The event will begin at 9am. Tel. +973 3913 2102.

12 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Camille Zakharia

31st Photocollage/Montage Workshop

The Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture and Research are holding a workshop: ‘Photocollage/Montage – An Introduction.’ Prominent artist and photographer Camille Zakharia is hosting it over a seven-week period from mid April to early June. Deadline for submissions is 31st March. Tel. +973 1732 2549.

What’s On

Julio Iglesias

Spring OfCulttsure Even 13th March - 13th April

3rd and 4th

Julio Iglesias, the best-selling Latin artist and one of the top ten best-selling artists in history, will perform in Bahrain for the first time. He has sold over 300 million albums in 14 languages, has released 80 albums and has given concerts in five continents. The performance will start at 8.30pm at Arad Fort.

8th

One of the world’s most beloved tenors Andrea Bocelli, will debut in Bahrain featuring Paola Sanguinetti and special guest Ilaria Della Bidia. The performance will start at 8pm at the Bahrain National Museum.

Al Riwaq Art Space and Block 338 community present a cultural and artistic collaboration. This event will begin with a contemporary art exhibition entitled ‘I Am The Other’ and the square near Monsoon Restaurant will be transformed into one of the cornerstones of the event where Up cycled material will be creatively utilised to make a stage and public park area that change weekly to accommodate the outdoor music and film events.

14th - 17th

Block 338

16th - 17th

The pulsing energy of hip-hop meets the raw physicality of acrobatics and the crew perform many gravity-defying manoeuvres. The Tom Tom Crew have thrilled audiences through the UK, Europe, the US and Canada and bring their unique brand of urban acrobatics to Bahrain’s audience. The show starts at 6pm at Arad Fort.

This fun programme with Karen Konnerth features timeless folk tales from Russia, the Marshall Islands, the United States and China, performed with hand, shadow, and tabletop puppets. This memorable show has toured in Pakistan, Costa Rica, and the US. Visit the Art Centre at 11am and 4pm to watch the show.

Tom Tom Crew

25th

Eitetsu Hayashi

Little White Egret Folk Dance Ensemble feature the exotic dance art of Chinese ethnical minority groups. The troupe has won great fame and honour at national and international level competitions and performances. The event starts at 8pm in the Cultural Hall.

9th - 10th

Eitetsu Hayashi, an internationally acclaimed pioneer of solo performance in Japanese traditional drum, ‘Taiko’, will be accompanied

by Japanese bamboo flutist Makoto Takei and four drummers from Eitetsu’s ‘Fu-Un no Kai’. The event will be held at 8pm in the Cultural Hall.

14 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Andrea Bocelli

For a complete list of all events, visit www.springofculture.org or Tel. +973 3990 0630.

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What’s On

! s e i t r a P s e i t r a P s e i t PMaarrch’s Not To Be Missed Events Simon Baker

22nd DJ Outlaw

JJ’s Music Hall are hosting another night of great comedy that should not be missed.

Craic Attack will feature Mickey Hutton and Paul Zenon. Tickets are available at JJ’s Irish Restaurant for BD5 general admission.

Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm.

Tel. +973 3932 9083.

23rd

Paul Hamilton

Another Lipstick Lounge will take place with Jason Kabuki (Shangri-la, Dubai) Jason is a successful DJ, producer and remixer that has helped launch many new venues in London and Dubai with his experience of chilled music and lounge culture.

Lipstick Lounge will be held at Cocoon Lounge with Sami Dee. An icon on the UK clubbing scene, Sami was involved in the development of many nights and is best known for his urban jackin’ house style.

7th

Lipstick Lounge with Paul Hamilton (JUICY MUSIC, UK) will be held at Cocoon Lounge.

Born in Malta, Paul brings amazing energy to his big room deep and tech house sets and is currently in Dubai with the brand Vegas Baby.

8th and 9th

Comedians Tony Cowards and Hal Cruttenden come to Bahrain for the Comedy Road Show over two nights. They will perform in Kicks on the 8th and at Corners in The Dragon Hotel, Amwaj and Champs Bar in The Juffair Hotel on Friday the 9th of March.

15th and 16th

The Red Mock Chili Peppers, tribute act to the Red Hot Chili Peppers will perform in Kicks, The Hotel Diva on the 15th and Champs and at the Juffair Hotel on the 16th. The band are not simply a tribute to the music of the RHCP, they have worked tirelessly perfecting every aspect Mickey Hutton of the band’s sound, look and on-stage presence.

16 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

16th

Cocoon Lounge host the Big Birthday Bash with Damian D’Costa (Casa D’Costa). Damien has been part of many of Bahrain’s best parties so his birthday is definitely one to be there for.

16th and 17th

Catch the Woodbines for St. Patrick’s week at JJ’s Music Hall, accompanied by two of the Ragus and Riverdance dancers, Joey Comerford and Lori Haul. Ticket will be available at JJ’s entrance for BD5 general admission. Tel. +973 3932 9083.

22nd

Punchline Media presents this comedy show featuring Imran Al Aradi, Rami Salame and Khalid Khalifa at the Golden Tulip Hotel Bahrain. DJ Outlaw is also a leading member of the Punchline team, bringing his ten years of experience in the music industry to Punchline’s table. DJ Outlaw is finalising this year’s events calendar with lineups of international artists that will be announced shortly. He will also be representing Bahrain at the Winter Music Conference in Miami this month to attend meetings with international agents and artists, finalising contracts of several performances to be held in Bahrain.

The ‘Comedy Vendors Bahrain’ event organised by the company costs BD12 for gold seating and BD8 for silver and the event will be held in the Gilgamesh Ballroom.

Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8.30pm. Tel. +973 3971 8080 or email info@punchlineme.com

28th

Simon Baker will perform at the last Lipstick Lounge of the month at Cocoon Lounge. The UK artist knows his own style and generates his own musical footprint. He tours the continents relentlessly and two of Baker’s productions made it into iTunes Best Of Year charts in 2009.

29th

The Ministry Of Sound World Housexy Tour will take place at the Coral Bay Karma Lounge terrace featuring DJ Patrick Hagenaar.

Tickets are BD5 for men, free entry for ladies and free selected beverages all night.

Doors open from 9pm. To book.

Tel. +973 3964 9590.

30th

The Gallery at Cocoon Lounge presents the Social Deconstruction album launch with Gavyn Mytchel (UK). Mytchell has been resident at the infamous Turnmills, London for the last six years and weekly resident at Ministry of Sound since 2008.

Gavyn Mytchel

2nd

The Flamingo lounge overlooking the pool side terrace is back with the Sunday BBQ night. An array of grilled meat and seafood is celebrated and the highlights of the South American way of live the Churrasco grill. Different tender meat cooked on the open fire wall, while waiters will be going around from one table to another craving off pieces of meat onto your plate, you will experience virtually unlimited meat variety. If you want to try a unique and trendy dining experience enhanced with first class live entertainment at one of the only happening places in Bahrain- then head down to the Moevenpick Hotel Bahrain for a special nigh out, good food- live music and exceptional people. The enjoyment is at BD 18.200++ per person. Book your table now.

Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain P.O.Box 24009, Muharraq Town, Kingdom of Bahrain Phone +973 17 460 000, Fax +973 17 460 001 www.moevenpick-bahrain.com

www.moevenpick-hotels.com

BBQ

Churrasco nights.

Events

New Promotions At The Royal Golf Club There are plenty of new things happening this March including spinning classes, special golfing events and even the chance to win free flights to Rome!

Sporting Events

Prego Promotion – Flights to Rome to be Won! To celebrate the launch of the new menu and all day opening hours in Prego, the Royal Golf Club’s Italian restaurant, the Club has launched a prize draw with two return flights to Rome to be won. Every time guests dine at Prego they will be given the opportunity to fill in an entry slip and their details will be added to the draw. The draw will take place on 30th April and the lucky winner will be announced on the Royal Golf Club website and Facebook page at www.facebook.com/prego.pizzeria

17th St Patrick’s Day Special, 7.30am two tee start. Open to all.

23rd Bahrain Junior Open, time TBC. Open to all junior golfers.

23th – 24th Faldo Series Middle East Championship, time TBC. Open to all junior golfers.

Saturdays Wee Monty Family Day - BD15 per adult and kids play free! Fee inclusive of green fee and hire clubs; open to all and tee times are from 10am to 2pm.

Junior Saturday Series Medal - 3pm shotgun start and open to all junior golfers.

Sundays Ladies’ TaylorMade Stableford - 8.30am shotgun start; open to all ladies.

Mondays Ecco Monday Stableford - 1pm shotgun start; A&E Monday Madness Night Golf Series - 6.30pm shotgun start - both at BD20 for nine holes.

Wednesdays Ladies golf competition in different formats - starts 8.30am; open to all ladies.

Thursdays Midweek Stableford - tee times until 2pm; open to all.

For information, contact Royal Golf Club Reception: +973 1775 0777; Royal Country Club Reception: +973 1775 1264; Prego: +973 1775 1263 or visit www.theroyalgolfclub.com

18 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Royal Country Club’s Exciting New Classes Now in partnership with Dive Crew Arabia, the Club is able to offer PADI diving courses to both members and visitors wishing to experience the underwater world as well as first aid and CPR training in conjunction with CPR Arabia and Emergency First Response – perfect for those caring for young children. Spinning classes and yoga classes are also taking off and are BD2 per class for members and BD4 per class for visitors. With a ’TeenFit’ programme and junior activities such as taekwondo and swimming on offer, the whole family can benefit from a healthy lifestyle.

Superb Value in Junior Golf Membership Junior memberships for this year are now even greater value for money to children of all ages.

Membership for the par 3 Wee Monty course now starts at BD65 for the whole year for those in the seven to 14-year age category and BD130 for 15 to 17 year olds. More experienced players wishing to play on the Montgomerie championship course will now pay BD250 per year for younger children and BD500 for 15 to 17-year-olds.

Find us on

Win Flights to Rome Only at Prego!

Create unrivalled memories by dining in Prego, the Royal Golf Club’s QHZ IDPLO\ IULHQGO\ ,WDOLDQ UHVWDXUDQW DQG \RX DQG D IULHQG FRXOG ¿QG yourselves jetting off to the beautiful city of Rome, the inspiration for our fabulous Italian cuisine.

Every time you dine in Prego, your name will be entered into the prize draw, so the more times you dine with us, the greater your chances of winning! You can also enter the draw on Prego’s Facebook page: facebook.com/prego.pizzeria - scan the QR code above right to be taken straight to the relevant page.

To book your table in Prego today, call 17 751263.

The Royal Golf Club website is available to you 24/7 all year round. Keep up to date with everything going on at the Club, view our latest offers and news, reserve a table in any of our restaurants or book your next tee time.

www.theroyalgolfclub.com

New In Town

Lost Paradise of Dilmun

New in

Town T Bahrain Confidential fill you in on the who, what, why, when and where in Bahrain!

JC’s Tennis Academy

The world’s first themed tennis academy was founded by Hussain Kadhem and Joseph Henriques, who wanted to run and own their own tennis academies throughout the GCC. Their vision combines luxury tennis experience with a theme designed for the young or just young at heart, novice or professional and the opportunity for players to improve their game. Beginners of all ages can learn the game while established players may sharpen up their skills and classes are based on the players’ skill level which assures that each person plays in groups according to their rating. The academy is situated next to Riffa Views International School.

Visit www.jcstennis.com

JC’s Tennis Academy

The weather’s heating up and families are certain to look forward to having a fun day out at LPOD. he Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park once again opens its doors on 9th March and is already on its fifth season. For March and for the rest of the Summer, visitors can expect plenty of new rides and activities.

LPOD has a big splash of amazing new adventures, great new attractions and exciting activities for all of the family to enjoy. All of this is in addition to what is already a desert oasis consisting of eighteen of the fastest slides, water sprays, spa pools, family raft ride, interactive children’s wet play and the gulf region’s largest wave pool. This year’s campaign is themed as the ‘Wonders of the Lost Paradise’ where the water park creates a pleasurable and magical escapade for all ages.

New extreme adventures are currently being added such as:

• The ‘Amazing Zip line’ - Suspended in a cable high above the water with a safety harnesses, visitors will fly from the top of one of the water slides and land all the way to the wave pool.

• Try the relaxing Fish Spa. This special spa area has been crafted to the cleanest and highest standards and the special fish approved

by Doctors, ‘Garra Ruffa’ fish, have been brought in from Asia. This one of a kind experience allows the fish to nibble the rough skin on a person’s feet, leaving it with soft and with a healthy glow.

Other new attractions in the pipeline include: • Dunk Tanks, Rodeo Bulls, Gliders and many more. As well as fitness campaigns introducing water aerobics, Zumba lessons, pump up sports and competitions such as the water volleyball championship and the first water basketball tournament.

Keep your eyes open as this season really is jam-packed with additional events such as the amazing escapade race, special themed weeks, the Summer Festival and many other amazing shows for all of the family.

This year promises to be an amazing escapade and a garden of paradise for all guests to enjoy.

Tel. +973 1784 510 or visit www.lpodwaterpark.com

20 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

New In Town

Senior Pastry Chef, Manju Dharmarathne

New Pastry Chef at the Crowne Plaza

The Crowne Plaza Bahrain have added a new talent to their culinary team with Senior Pastry Chef, Manju Dharmarathne.

With three years of Hotel Management studies and many years of experience working in prestigious hotels in the GCC, Chef Manju has developed and acquired an abundance of culinary and creative skills that he has mastered over the years which is marked by his artistic wedding and birthday cake creations. Welcoming the new pastry chef to their team of culinary experts, Pascal Eggerstedt, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Bahrain has said that the hotel looks forward to Chef Manju’s creative and unique ideas to strengthen their pastry menu offerings.

In his role as Senior Pastry Chef, Manju will coordinate the development and presentation of all dessert, pastry and bakery items, using his extensive experience in managing all aspects of the pastry department. Apart from giving everyone’s special occasions a very special meaning through his cakes, Chef Mandu will also be conducting pastry and baking classes.

Tel. +973 1753 1122.

The K Hotel Health Club The K Hotel Health Club features both an adult and children’s swimming pool, and is an ideal place to spend the weekend with the family or to relax after a hard week at the office.

With sporting facilities and keep-fit studio, the hotel offers a separate men and women gymnasium, with cardiovascular machines, multi-purpose exercise rooms and separate jacuzzis, steam rooms and saunas for complete peace of mind.

The facilities are available to both hotel guests and residents in the Kingdom and there is a recreation room with pool tables and an internet café .

They have just introduced the new health club membership called ‘Early Bird’ with the following rates for single rate membership with a 30 per cent discount

22 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

from the rack rate.

• Annually - BD195 • Semi-Annually - BD135 • Quarterly - BD85 • Monthly - BD45 New classes have also been introduced called ‘Ki Aikido’ available on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 7 to 8pm for BD6 per class.

Tel. +973 3989 6624 for Aikido classes or call The K Hotel +973 1736 0000.

Shout About

o t t n a We W . . . t u o b A T U SHO Punchline Events

Punchline is an events management company that specialises in entertainment with a whole team working together including members from different backgrounds in the entertainment industry. Punchline Media will be playing a great role in the entertainment scene in Bahrain by hosting quality events such as concerts, standup comedy shows and parties. DJ Outlaw is a leading member of the team, bringing his ten years of experience in the music industry to Punchline’s table. DJ Outlaw is finalising this year’s events calendar with lineups Imran Al Aradi of international artists that will be announced shortly. He will also be representing Bahrain at the Winter Music Conference in Miami this month to attend meetings with international agents and artists, finalising contracts of several performances to be held in Bahrain. Imran Al Aradi is also a member of the Punchline team and will be playing a great role in the comedy scene in Bahrain as well as searching for potential comedians from Bahrain and the region. Imran will be bringing recognised comedy brands to Bahrain which will highly contribute to the entertainment scene as well as creating his own such as the ‘Comedy Vendors Bahrain’ event taking place this month. For inquires email info@punchlineme.com

350km/h Trains to Link GCC

Dr Mohamad Shahda Bahrain Doctors Help Out in the World’s Biggest Refugee Camp in Kenya

In October 2011 a group of Bahraini doctors from the Ministry of Health visited a Somalian refugee camp in Kenya where they established a Bahraini Medical Centre and became a ‘disaster help’ team called ‘BM-AID’, becoming the first doctors from Bahrain to visit the camp. The DADAAB camp is the world’s largest refugee camp in the world with around 800,000 people living there, and the team including Dr Mohamad Shahda (Dental Surgeon) and co-worker Dr Mohammed Ayed (General Surgeon), who helped to establish the clinic by donations from Bahrainis and in cooperation with a youth human rights activist from Bahrain. The clinic now receives around 800 patients every day and contains more equipment. Another three doctors from Salmaniya went last November and after the experience, the BM-AID team decided to do more for the refugees, encouraging any Bahraini to live this experience and volunteer in the future through a meeting with Bahrain’s Minister of Human Rights and Social Development and Acting Minister of Health, Dr Fatima Mohammed Al Balooshi.

They can present a project to her and if she approves, will give support and training for the team to help in any disaster areas. The BM-AID team are now working on this official arrangement and are looking forward to receiving more doctors and medical staff to volunteer in the Bahrain clinic in Kenya.

Email: scre4msomalirefugees@gmail.com or visit the ‘Journey to Somalia Refugee Camps’ Facebook page to learn more.

24 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Saudi Arabia has approved a USD25 billion (BD9.4bn) railway project, which will link Bahrain and the other GCC countries through a 2,117km network. The project, in which trains will run at speeds of up to 350km/h, is set to boost regional travel and trade ties between the six countries. The rail link will start in Kuwait and pass by the eastern Saudi city of Dammam, connecting with Bahrain through a bridge parallel to King Fahad Causeway before reaching Qatar via Salwa, while another line will connect the kingdom with the UAE through Bathaa. The railway line will also run through Abu Dhabi and Al Ain to reach Oman through Sahar and Muscat, and connect Qatar and Bahrain through a bridge. Land acquisition has been estimated to cost USD3.1bn and the cost of purchasing locomotives is pegged at USD1.8bn. Upon completion of engineering studies, work on the project will start this year and is expected to be complete by 2017.

Trains to Link GCC

Shout About

BIC All Set For ‘UNIF1ED’ Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix Exciting Formula One weekend on the cards as Kingdom gets set for racing spectacle.

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), Gulf Air, have announced an exciting programme of events for the upcoming 2012 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Scheduled to take place on 20th, 21st and 22nd April. It is the fourth round of a record-breaking 20-race calendar that makes up this year’s FIA Formula One World Championship.

The supporting categories are headlined by the GP2 Series and Porsche Mobil1 Supercup. Also set to feature is the most popular circuit racing category to come out of the region, the WGA Supercars Championship Middle East.

A series of nationwide public events are sure to get people buzzing with Formula One fever. Special competitions where everyone can participate in such as ‘I Love Bahrain’ Picture and Video Contest, will require participants to send in their favourite photographs or videos taken during past editions of the Bahrain Grand Prix. The best will then be selected and their entries will be put on display in malls or even at the circuit itself during the race weekend.

• The Main Grandstand - best view of the Among other community events lined Grand Prix, includes the start grid, the Formula One up are a ‘Build an F1 Car’ activity for pit lane, the main straight, the finish line, and the winners’ podium. Tickets: BD153 (after the 15 per cent discount) for schools and universities, the creation all three days. Ticket for Race Day only: BD131.75. of different F1 related sculptures all across Bahrain, an art exhibition and • Batelco Grandstand - overlooks much of the inner many others. part of the circuit including the Oasis straight, the Support Race Pit Lane that will boast the GP2 Series, Porsche Mobil1 Recreational activities Supercup and the WGA Supercars throughout the three-day Championship Middle East. Tickets: BD102 for all three days Grand Prix weekend include: and BD89.25 for Race Day. • Stilt walkers, street performers, buskers, balloon modellers, • Turn One Grandstand - provides a perfect view of the magicians and caricaturists who will circuit’s first turn. Tickets: BD68 apiece for three days; BD59.5 for Race Day alone. be interacting with the large crowds; • Special Extreme Area for those • University Grandstand - located just after the first wishing to test their limits and couple of turns and you will see the field make its way experience an extreme ride. around BIC’s iconic Sakhir Tower. Three-day ticket: BD55.25; Race Day - BD46.75.

And, for the first time at the Bahrain Grand Prix, there will be • Victory Grandstand - overlooks the circuit’s final turn three special fully air-conditioned tents after which the cars will be powering down the home solely catered to children’s entertainment. straight. Tickets: BD42.5 for three-days; BD34 for Race Day.

Race-goers can buy tickets to any of the five strategically located Grandstands:

We Love Winners!

Ali Sharaf Photography are proud winners of the Digital Photographer Magazine’s (UK based) ‘Portrait Digital Photographer of the Year Award 2011’.

They were up against thousands of entries from all over the world. Having been awarded, they have obtained recognition for Bahrain internationally and have shown the world that the Kingdom has an exceptional pool of creative talent.

The image that won was a collaboration between Ali Sharaf’s photography skills and that of Bahraini make-up artist Azhar Hubail. They also utilised individual freelance local talents: Creative Director Fahad A Al Dossari and Bahrain-based British model Laura Bale to work on this award-winning project.

26 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Three-day ticket holders enjoy an additional activity with their pass. On Thursday between 3 to 5pm, they will be able to look at the Formula One teams in their garages in an exclusive Pit Lane Walk.

Ticket Discounts: 50 per cent off - Children aged between three and 15 years old; 25 per cent off - Students 16 to 17 years old; 10 per cent off - University students.

25 per cent off - Those with special needs, those aged 60 and above.

Friday Roaming Ticket is BD65 each and allows the holder to watch all of the action from any or all of the circuit’s Grandstands.

All tickets can be purchased at the BIC stands at Bahrain City Centre and, starting from 1st March, at Seef Mall.

Tickets can also be bought online from www.bahraingp.com, or by calling the circuit’s hotline on +973 1745 0000.

Art Space

Bahrain Confidential gets an exclusive interview with artist, Rashid Al Khalifa. We delve into his latest exhibition, ‘Reflection’ currently on display at the Bahrain Financial Harbour Fine Arts Gallery.

A Show Of Transformation “I create art for the pure joy of it and to express myself. I paint for myself, from myself, by myself.”

28 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Art Space

‘Chrome Painting’

R

‘Do you see any black?’

eflections on life can serve as a mirror into our souls. It allows one to look back on the good times, the bad times, the sad times and the happy times. It enables one to make a sober survey of their triumphs and failures, the highs and lows of life and everything in between.

For Rashid Al Khalifa, the events which transpired last year not only in Bahrain but in the Middle East, moved him to reflect on the past - the people, families and friends, and to look within himself; hence ‘Reflection’ was borne - an undertaking which began in April 2011 right up to the beginning of this year. Showcasing 15 new works, the collection combines minimalist aesthetics, neo pop and participatory art.

“I believe this period calls for recollection and reflection of [one’s] self. As an artist, I express my feelings in the colours I use on forms and shapes based on my recollection

‘Fragmented’

‘Fabrics of Society’

‘It’s Web All Over’

‘Square Heads’

on the seasons in life that has passed; times of laughter and embrace, mourning and sorrow, success and failure,” Rashid poignantly tells us.

We ask Rashid what his intention was when creating this recent work, and how important it is to the artwork in the end: “My

between a work of art’s ‘popularity’ - how it sells - and the quality or abundance of its ‘meaning’ or ‘value’. We explore the relationship of this idea to his own work: “I create art for the pure joy of it and to express myself. I paint for myself, from myself, by myself. I don’t paint for commercial reasons so I did not face any major challenge as an artist.

Although in terms of art production I did. My convex paintings did not happen overnight. It took me years to develop it,” he tells us.

During the late 1990s, Rashid embarked on a study to deviate from the traditional square/rectangularshaped canvas by casting aside “illusionistic space from the physicality of the flat surface. For me the shape is part of the painting, the objective was not only about painting; the shape of the canvas has to say something,” he explains.

In his first experiment, he created a straightforward vertical canvas joined together forming a triangular shape service that will serve as a free-standing

“The ‘Reflection’ series is participatory art so everybody gets their fair share of not only interpreting but concluding the visual journey.” reason for creating this kind of art is to share and encourage introspection so that we might pause to measure ourselves to the intangible memories and their role in the everyday processes of wresting our present from past.”

Some artists point out the distinction

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 29

Art Space

The ‘Reflection’ series on display at Bahrain Financial Harbour Fine Arts Gallery

“For me the shape is part of the painting, the objective was not only about painting; the shape of the canvas has to say something.” painting which for him was not satisfactory. “I did more studies until I discovered convex,” recalls Rashid. “Convex granted me the flexibility to create what I wanted and I have been using the service since my discovery in 1999 to date.”

Rashid uses convex-shaped service - either wrapped in canvas and painted with oil or lacquer sprayed with enamel paint work; and latest chrome plated convex with enamel paint.

“The ‘Reflection’ series is participatory art, “so everybody gets their fair share of not only interpreting but concluding the visual journey,” shares Rashid.

Elaborating further, he says that depending on how the viewer sees his/her reflection, “he/she can come up with his/her own narrative that is not necessarily the same as mine. For example, when the sunshine streams through the window onto the painting and bounces off a reflection within, it illuminates and holds a latent surprise. They reveal a maze of forms that is seemingly scattered about and when the

30 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

viewer steps in, a relationship begins to emerge and the work becomes a full environment for the viewer to participate, to explore and experience the surroundings inviting them to fill in the blanks themselves. The viewers become legitimate interpreters of feelings in real-time and the artistic realm. They are able to tap into the deepest realms of their own psyche and trigger profound thoughts, emotions and wisdom. I would expect that these works will create a deeply private visual language revealing the vicissitudes of contemporary times and the past with constant hope for change and unity.”

We all live through different experiences. ‘Reflection’ is a kind of art that asks us to involve ourselves and examine all the things we have seen and felt, all the things we have done and all of the choices we have made in life ‘Going Alone’

‘Reflection’, Rashid Al Khalifa’s solo exhibition opened on 30th January at the Bahrain Financial Harbour Fine Arts Gallery and will be on display throughout this month.

For more information visit www.rashidalkhalifa.com

David Hollywood

Youths For Prophets, Without Sin

As youths for prophets steer a course, Towards our futures of remorse, We forge a dauntless faith believed, Inspired by deeds not yet bereaved, And age which slows, and grows to show, Wisdoms what we really sow. _________________________

Our resident poet indulges us some more of his masterfully written prose.

Sweet forsaken pagan dreams, Of adolescent thoughts and schemes, To live and love exalted themes, Amongst our regal plans supreme, And youthful looks desire esteem, In deeds of destiny’s extreme.

And as all vanquished knaves and foes, Repute our gloried portent flow, Adroit in vigoured prowessed force, Revered in skills enriched at source, Our inspired hallowed statures growth, Reflects our honoured noble birth.

As damsels look to see our vigour, Admiring of our charms, and figure, We seek for one true heart to honour, Mindful romanced glance upon her, Enjoined lives’ adventured quests, In search of worshipped passions blessed.

Elysian sires and fortunes sign, Shows all the futures in our prime, As valiant our faith soars high, Towards ascending stars in sky, And rise ‘Oh Augured Paladin‘, We’re born celestial, without sin.

But medieval age grows old, Quixotic musings days retold, By phantoms who from pasts emerge, Reminding us of thoughts they purge, While gazing back, our futures vision, Appears amongst our child’s ambition.

See predestined futures cast, Towards hereafters naïve past, As destiny in fortunes grasp, Erstwhile ambitions faith surpassed, The sumptuous bounty nere to last, Are livings rewards vanished fast.

We see achievements that were born, From all the things that we have sown, Immortal breathe our life’s obsession, Silhouettes our final lesson, Eternity by fleetings show, That where we start is where we go. _______________________ Experience begins the end, Of understanding all we tend, In medians that culminate, Peripheries inaugurate, In circled spirals that are bound, To saviours, as our lives go round.

Before the past when life was cast.

David Hollywood

32 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

To contact the artist, Tel. +973 3920 7624 or email: thewineappreciationsociety@gmail.com or davidhollywood23@hotmail.com

old_paper_courtesy_www.douglas03405.wordpress.com

Poetry

Living

Alcรกzar Andalusian Horse

34 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Living

The Second Animal Production Show A week of entertainment, knowledge and learning about animals will be on at the Mara’ee Bahrain Animal Production Show from 22nd to 27th March.

T

he show will focus on the importance of animal production, health and the ongoing enhancement of these benefits for individuals, investors and businesses.

While organisations throughout the region concentrate on trade exhibitions, the second Mara’ee, Bahrain Animal Production Show is looking at the family and bringing not only business, but a spectacular range of live and technology enhanced productions to their event.

While organisations throughout the region concentrate on trade exhibitions, the second Mara’ee, Bahrain Animal Production Show is looking at the family and bringing not only business, but a spectacular range of live and technology enhanced productions to their event.

The Beauty of Andalusia arrives through its famous horses from the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art from Jerez de la Frontera, Spain and is sure to be a major highlight this year with their famous horse show. The school is dedicated to the conservation of the ancestral abilities of the Andalusian horse, highlighting the classical traditions of Spanish baroque horsemanship through their renowned ‘dancing stallions’ shows.

Equestrian spectacles will be further highlighted through performances by Clémence Faivre, a 30-year-old horsewoman whose successes and accomplishments made her a formidable rising star in equestrian performance art.

“Mara’ee aims to provide learning opportunities to visitors of all ages and backgrounds,” said Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Dr Juma bin Ahmed Al Kaabi. “By creating a fun and attractive environment, Mara’ee is suitable for all family members in any age group to enjoy. Animal keepers, from pets to livestock, are also encouraged to participate in competitions, learn and have fun as they do so.”

Additional public activities will include: • Animal Exhibition - with breeds of farm animals, horses, dogs and cats.

• Bird Show - a large display of some of the most exotic birds in the GCC and around the world with participation from the Bird Societies.

• Fish World - a unique dome tent creating an immersive underwater environment with customised aquariums.

• Live Shows - Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art perform twice daily.

• Costumed Walkabouts - with camels, fish and horse inspired costumes. Visitors can have the chance to be photographed with the costume animals.

Technology and science will also feature highly in the event showcasing the major role it plays in the emerging trends, with emphasis on livestock, poultry and aquaculture.

A trade exhibition will focus on the provision of products and services relevant to animal farming, agriculture and technology, bringing international, regional and local companies together with a mission of improving animal production and health.

With more than 140 exhibitors registered to date will enable visitors to glean information on a truly global scale.

An exhibitor sharing session will also enable participants to market their products and exchange information.

The first Mara’ee, Bahrain Animal Production Show was held in November 2010 with 125 exhibitors from 26 countries and more than 100,000 visitors. The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning is confident that this year will be even bigger and more spectacular, not only in entertainment, but in trade and knowledge development for business people, children and the public alike.

The Mara’ee, Bahrain Animal Production Show, will be held from 22nd - 27th March at the Bahrain International Endurance Village, Sakhir and is organised by the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning

“Mara’ee aims to provide learning opportunities to visitors of all ages and backgrounds,” • Outdoor Theatre - a giant screen showing movies and documentaries about animals.

• Fun stations for children - face painting, balloon twister and cow milking contests along with inflatable games such as the gladiator ring, human foosball and a bull ride.

• Farmer’s Market - a souk offering different products and services relevant to animals and animal care. Pets and animal accessories will also be available in the market.

Educational Zone including: • Animal Boulevard Learning Trail and petting sessions • Rainforest Adventure Maze from the US including a canopy layer area that has a monkey bar station, the understory area with butterfly camouflage mural, hanging vines and butterfly zip line • Mad Science Mad Lab and Fun Stations for interactive fun and learning with animals and science experiments • Mara’ee mascots Marah (cow), Rayash (chicken) and Zaanoof (fish)

For more information please call Leanne or Leonie on Tel. +973 3947 0492 or visit www.maraee.gov.bh

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 35

Sheer Luxury

The Perfect Mother’s Day Gift

eSKay Jewellery has chosen the masterfully created jewellery of Italian brand Alessandro Fanfani, as the perfect gift to celebrate mothers and all the wonderful women who instil lifelong values and exemplify unconditional love.

Unmistakably Italian, Alessandro Fanfani is much more than jewellery - but an ‘experience that combines desire and luxury’.

Each step from the design to the choice of stones, is personally taken care of by Alessandro Fanfani, relying on a expert team of gifted artisans – goldsmiths, casters, stone setters, polishers and enamellers who give life to masterpieces of jewellery, and whose expertise and techniques are handed down from generation to generation.

On Mother’s Day, show your love and appreciation with a gift from eSKay jewellery - one that can be treasured forever ...

Alessandro Fanfani himself has rediscovered and perfected the technique of stratified enamel, combined with designs that date back to traditional symbols, allowing him to craft unquestionably elegant jewels.

This is how Fanfani creates bold, colourful and unique rings, earrings and bracelets that combine the fascination of gold, brilliant-cut diamonds and enamel; with ancient know-how, aesthetic research and individual refinement allowing every jewel to merge with the wearer.

Surprise your beloved with a timeless piece of jewellery. Visit eSKay Jewellery at Shop 208, Gate 5, Seef Mall. Tel. +973 1758 2272.

Email: info@eskayjewellery.com or visit www.eskayjewellery.com

36 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Jewellery Seef Mall, Shop No. 208, Gate No. 5, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 58 22 72, Fax: (+973) 17 58 16 10 info@eskayjewellery.com, www.eskayjewellery.com

Technology

New

Market In The

Bahrain Confidential gets our resident gadget geek Faisal Ebrahim to talk about the latest technology to hit the market.

BlackBerry Porsche P’9981 Available For Pre-Order The specially designed BlackBerry Porsche P’9981 phone is now available to pre-order although the official release date is still unknown. It is perfect if you have got some money to blow, USD1,700 to be exact. The product is far more than most people are willing to pay for a smartphone but features a forged stainless steel frame, a hand-wrapped leather back, a 1.2GHz processor and 5-megapixel camera.

iPro Lens (iPhone Photography)

Schneider Optics have launched their brand new iPro Lens System designed for the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S. The system is a casing for the iPhone 4/4S which allows users to attach lenses over the default iPhone camera lens. The standard iPro Lens System will set you back USD199 and comes with both a wide angle and fish eye lens, a casing on which the user mounts the lenses, and a handle which does double duty as a casing for the lenses and a tripod mount adapter as well.

Nintendo Network and App Store Launched Klipsch Mode M40 Review

If you like to enjoy good quality and astounding sound, choose the Klipsch Mode M40 noise cancelling headset. Klipsch has been a popular brand when it comes to audio products such as speaker systems and headsets so the Mode M40 is something that will catch the attention of many consumers. The Mode M40 headset offers excellent noise cancelling prowess that looks as good as some of its competitors.

All products are available at stores across Bahrain. For the latest technology news, contact Faisal Ebrahim on email: faisal@itechbahrain.com or visit www.itechbahrain.com

38 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

BD132

According to Nintendo, the digital distribution of 3DS titles are already in place and a Japanese game is the first to take advantage of downloadable add-on content. The upcoming ‘Final Fantasy’ for the Nintendo 3DS is expected to make use of this new system as well. An app store will allow players access to buy and download add-on content, and Nintendo has officially unveiled the Nintendo Network, an online service that will be initially rolled out to Nintendo 3DS owners but will be making its way onto the Wii U when the console is released later this year.

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Open Now at: Lagoon, Amwaj Islands 16.011.199

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Hospitality

An Uninterrupted

Sea View

Anurage Bajaj, General Manager of Elite Resort and Spa tells Bahrain Confidential about grabbing the chance to work for such a well-known brand and how fast he settled in due to Bahrain’s warm people.

We understand your post with the Elite Group is quite recent, how are you finding the experience?

My career has always taken my family and I to different countries and the adventure of moving, settling in and making friends has always excited us. After South East Asia, India and East Africa – the Middle East was the next destination and I wanted to be with

Shift 7

a brand that is home grown and is known for its true ‘Arabic Hospitality’. Over the last eight months I have quickly settled in which goes to show how warm the people within the group and country are. The welcoming nature and warm attitude of the Bahrain people is truly touching and incomparable. I look forward to working here and seeing the growth of the Bahrain economy.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

In the hospitality business what matters most are the people, and the talent in the group is truly impressive. My colleagues, team members and of course bosses are not only knowledgeable and pragmatic but also very friendly and approachable – I think this culture has percolated right from the top.

What is your management style?

My experience with different cultures has given me the ability to understand people and develop systems and more importantly my team members. I always strive to get the best out of them which requires perseverance but more importantly, clear focus.

How do you motivate the team?

I think clear and open communication helps a lot and the more we are able to talk to each other the more we can work as a single unit rather than multiple teams with multiple goals.

General Manager of Elite Resort and Spa Anurage Bajaj

40 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

What USP does the property offer?

The hotel is a short drive from anywhere on the Island, causeway or the airport, accessibility is our biggest unique selling point. The Spa has distinctive treatments that relax and rejuvenate and we also have a

trendy salon. The Gymnasium offers a great view with modern equipment and all of our suites offer an uninterrupted view of the sea.

What offerings can one expect from the Elite Resort and Spa? This hotel is popular with business travellers due to its easy access location, close proximity to the airport, relaxed atmosphere and yet efficient service. There are several long stay guests who like the room layout, comfortable setting and ability of the staff to offer a personalised service. Families enjoy the weekends as there is plenty for the kids and ladies available at the poolside and Spa. Shift 7 is getting positive reviews. What promotions do you have for March?

Shift 7 will always remain the sports lovers haunt as well as a corporate venue. We are showing the Spanish League football and have also planned some exciting activities this month. We feature a unique collection of sports memorabilia at Shift 7.

What future plans do you have for the Elite Resort and Spa? This year we are going to build on our unique position and capitalise on our convenient location near the airport. This Ramadan our celebrations will be traditional and truly trend setting. This is also a good year for all sports fans with the Olympics and Euro 2012 and we will ensure we do not disappoint the fans by creating a great ambience for them all to participate in the events Tel. +973 1731 3333 or visit www.elitegroup4u.com

Hospitality

Hospitality Is Our Heritage

Al Safir Hotel and Tower Front Office Manager Vikram Devgan has been in the hospitality industry for over six years and talks to Bahrain Confidential about his memorable experiences during his three years working at the hotel.

Where did you receive your training from?

I completed a three year Diploma in Hotel Management Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition from IHM Meerut, India and my Hotel Industrial Training was from the TAJ group of five- star hotels also in India.

As Front Office Manager, what is your position mainly responsible for?

My main job includes overall responsibility and control of Hotel Front Office Operations, Central Reservation and Global Distribution Systems.

What do you find most rewarding about your job role?

Guest service and of course guest satisfaction. Getting the ‘Wow’ comment from our guests is the most rewarding thing for me.

What is your management style?

I work on the 3D’s when it comes to Management style i.e.

Directing (telling employees what to do), Discussing (ask questions and listening) and Delegating (Let employees figure out their own way to

perform their duties and help them by delegating the work).

How do you handle difficult guests or handle their requests?

We listen and try to understand the guest, determining their needs and delivering the right solution. Guest satisfaction is always the priority in any case for us and patience is key in these situations.

Have you ever received an unusual request from a guest?

For us, every guest request is important whether usual or unusual and we work towards fulfilling the guest request and delivering the best services.

In your career with the Al Safir Hotel and Tower, is there one memorable experience that you’d like to share?

There are lot of memorable moments attached with Al Safir Hotel and Tower.

For me, every single happy and satisfied guest and their comments make our moments memorable.

In your capacity as Front Office Manager, what in your opinion, sets Al Safir Hotel and Tower apart from other hotels and properties on the Island?

We believe in responsible business ethics and guest satisfaction is our priority. That is what our slogan and motto also says; ‘Hospitality is our Heritage’. I firmly believe this is what keeps us apart from other hotels on the island.

What can guests expect when they visit Al Safir Hotel and Tower?

Professional and smiling staff, with a view and a motto of guest satisfaction and exceeding guest’s expectations For more information Tel. +973 1782 7999 visit www.alsafirhotel.com, or email: sales@alsafirhotel.com

“Getting the ‘Wow’ comment from our guests is the most rewarding thing for me.”

42 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Opinion

‘A Matter Of Taste’

Do you want your dream wedding dress but are unsure how to get in touch with the experts and what shape suits you best? Juni Capulong gives his advice on how to plan for your special day.

A

lady called Cinderella, inspired all the young girls of our generation to be princesses, to dream of marrying a prince and to have a lavish wedding. This gave way to the idea of having the best wedding that you could possibly afford, to mesmerise guests

44 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

with the decorations and have the most unique and magical gown possible.

The traditional wedding dress is normally white or a shade of white, and was popularised through the wedding of Queen Victoria. Some say Victoria’s choice of a white gown was a sign of extravagance, but may have also been influenced by the values she held which emphasised sexual purity.

A wedding dress is the most expensive dress any woman will ever invest in and is the most valued garment in her lifetime.

It comes in different shapes, silhouettes, styles and costs.

With the global economic situation, it is only practical that the bride-to-be works with what her budget can afford.

Planning a wedding dress usually takes around three months and some women even start planning a whole year before the grand day itself.

Juni Capulong

On the Island, there are thousands of tailors that can assist you in your bridal needs, all you have to know is what shape and silhouette will flatter your body. This is where I come in to assist you in your dilemma, and hopefully be able to help you achieve your desired magical dress.

From Sheath, A-line, Mermaid, Full Skirt or Cathedral Trail, the shape can be anything as long as it is appropriate to the location of your ceremony and practical enough that you can dance, move and look gracious whilst still being comfortable.

You might not be able to afford a Cinderella-style wedding, however … you can still say ‘I do’ beautifully For enquiries on tailor recommendation or what bridal dress works for you, don’t hesitate to email me at junicaps@gmail.com so I can attend to your questions and help you with your fashion, wardrobe and tailoring predicaments.

Living

Spruce Up Your Storage Creative Closets strive for continual innovation and the company’s customer care shows the commitment to complete customer service with a ten-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee.

Creative Closets have become the region’s leading manufacturer in storage solutions and currently have showrooms in countries across the Gulf region, and expanded recently into Asia.

It is the only company of its kind within the region that offers a revolutionary new sliding door silent system and a unique lighting system using LED lights and sensors in their closets so that lights switch on every time you open them.

Creative Closets also takes the time to learn about customers’ storage and lifestyle and include a complimentary design consultation to build the perfect solution.

Most installations are scheduled within two weeks and the company produce custom-designed solutions using the finest hardware, accessories and materials including the best timber imported from Germany. After completion of the installation, the company’s inspectors will visit the site to make sure that everything delivered meets their standards and exceeds customer expectations.

Their newest showroom opened in Lebanon just two months ago in the famous Virgin building in Beirut. The company recently made expansions in Bahrain by opening a new branch at Arad in September last year and have many global expansion plans.

Tel. +973 1746 6539; 1761 0612 or visit www.creative.com.sa

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 45

Shopping

Newly Opened

Shop Drop

Victoria’s Secret

Victoria’s Secret is dominating its field with modern fashioninspired collections and is the destination for women’s fragrances and beauty products.

Till You

More shops have opened at Bahrain City Centre, and many more are coming soon, so come and visit today!

Charanga

Charanga features exclusive designs, with maximum quality at the best price. Offering original and modern designs for youngsters, Charanga is made up of sizes from 0 months to 16 years old, in different styles.

N. Spa

N. Spa provide today’s modern women with an elegant and indulgent range of manicure and pedicure experiences that will turn hands and feet into the epitome of taste and style, offering the most comprehensive menu of nail care services and exclusive nail care products.

Opening Soon

Hair Spa

At Hair Spa women can go from casual to nighttime chic in about 45 minutes, by providing the best hair blowouts and luxurious handmade treatments using natural ingredients.

Café Vapiano

Vapiano is an innovative European concept serving made-to-order hand tossed pizzas, fresh, housemade pasta and hand tossed gourmet salads. Vapiano puts a new spin on the dining experience with its urban upscale Italian decor and great customer service.

Morelli’s Café

Morelli’s provides excellent quality fresh ice cream. Fresh ice cream flavours are more intense and have a different consistency to industrial ice cream which is deep frozen and generally has a long shelf life.

46 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Fashion

Spring/Summer Trends From

Saks Fifth Avenue The weather’s warming up and as the fashion world’s hottest names show off their collections, Bahrain Confidential makes sure they sashay from the runway straight to your wardrobe!

BD288

Ocelot print pony belt with Alexander McQueen gold finish brass buckle.

Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen distinguished himself from the very start with ground breaking collections and dramatic shows. Since his death in 2010, Sarah Burton has added a softer touch to the collections.

Accessories Mint Enamel Snap Bangle

Enamel skull bangle with opening clasp detail.

BD85

Valentino

The collection’s striking graphic approach offsets the delicate mood of the designs, tempering sweetness with dreamy, detailed textures.

BD122

Yves Saint Laurent

Rose Silk Skull Scarf

Cat-Eye Shaped Sunglasses

BD98

Ocelot Bridle Belt

A paisley skull print style in luxurious silk.

Vintage-inspired with rounded edges create a dramatic statement.

BD148

Founded in 1962, YSL is synonymous with elegance, flair and innovation.

Diane Von Furstenberg

Leather Cosmetic Case

Soft case with meticulously embossed signature YSL logo and double zippered top.

BD374

DVF’s designs are essential for stylish women all over the world, with plenty of exotic prints.

Grey Leopard Scarf Luxuriously soft wool and cashmere woven together complete with bold leopard print.

Glasses

Round plastic rimmed glasses as seen all over the runway.

BD69

BD94

Valentino

BD62

Kenley Scarf

Comes in a variety of pretty prints on whisperthin cashmere.

Quinn Patent Leather Belt

Pistachio patent leather belt complete with DVF signature heart and triple notch detail.

in City Centre.

ks Fifth Avenue, Bahra

Items are available at Sa

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 47

Fashion BD43

Leather Side Zip Continental Wallet Leather Mini Continental Wallet

BD45

BD45 BD29

Flat Wristlet

Leather Foldover Continental Wallet

BD17

BD17

Leather Mini Wallet

Coin Purse with Key Chain

Accessories Alert!

Victoria’s Secret Beauty and Accessories launch their new ories … range of stylish access

Victoria’s Secret is mainly known for their luxurious lingerie however they also sell a wide-range of beauty products including fragrances, make-up, body care and accessories.

Nylon Overnighter

BD16

BD29

Signature Trio Set

Passport Cover

BD14-17 Leather Business Card Case

BD14-17 Phone Case

BD16

Signature Pencil Case

Canvas N/S Zip Tote

BD9 Victoria’s Secret Beauty and Accessories is located in Bahrain City Centre.

48 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

BD33

Option 01

Option 02

Everyone deserves a Best American Restaurant in the Middle East Since 1997.

Now ser ving an assortment of cuisine.

Tony theContinental dog father and his team have dedicated

We know itsChance! taking a long Second but...

4HE WAITING IS OVER AND &ELDA S Best American Restaurant #UT 3TYLE 3TUDIO IS NOW OPEN time in the Middle,OCATED AT THE $ELMON (OTEL -ANAMA

East Since 1997

THE SALON HAS UNDER GONE A STUNNING TRANSFORMATION &ELDA WHO TRAINED AT THE GLOBALLY RENOWNED 6IDAL 3ASSOON 4RAINING !CADEMY AND THE 3HISEIDO 3CHOOL OF MAKE UP OFFERS THE LATEST HAIR MAKE UP SERVICES AS WELL AS MANICURES PEDICURES AND NAIL EXTENSIONS AT VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES

their time to rescue and help home unwanted, abused & stray animals in Bahrain. You can do your bit too. Purchase a Second Chance calendar for BD5 and all proceeds go directly to supporting the animals and the rescue centre.

SIT TIGHT

Please call Linda on 3980 2200 or if you’re interested in adopting a cat or dog (or both) for life “Transport available on request,please please call call to book in advance.�

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Grand Mosque

www.gulf-insider.com Al Jazira Supermarket

Al Jazira Supermarket

?

?

NSA

NSA

will be coming live on 1st February 2012 Tel: 17725550 email: ricsbah@yahoo.com

Tel: 17 725550 email: ricsbah@yahoo.com

www.FashionArabia.net

Areej, established in 2004, is the luxury Arabic lifestyle magazine published from Bahrain by Arabian Magazines. It has a strong focus on fashion and luxury but also gives readers interesting and informative sections on art, society, shopping, home decor, and health. In November 2009, Areej circulation was substantially increased as it became the only magazine to be delivered to 3,000 Al Watan newspaper subscribers.

Fashion

50 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Fashion

A Dance In Time!

Milene Padula

Last month, Milene Padula, the wife of the Italian Ambassador, organised for the second year running a Venetian Ball held at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa in celebration of the annual carnival held in Venice. To recreate the Renaissancestyle atmosphere Milena worked alongside the Italian events company, Ludica Antiqua, which specialises in entertaining in period costumes. All the tickets for the Ball were immediately sold out.

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 51

Fashion

The evening started off with pre-drinks in the lobby and it was fabulous to see that everyone had got into the party atmosphere and dressed accordingly including wearing the masks too. The guests were then led into the stunning ballroom of the Sofitel where the fun began. A sumptuous meal was served along with plenty of beverages. Once the meal was out of the way, the Ludica Antiqua events team came into their own and took guests back in time with traditional early dancing and interactive games and everyone danced and played like the noble gentry of ages gone by.

The whole evening was beautifully organised and the Ludica Antiqua events company added a touch of authentic class to it. As so much effort had gone into making the event as authentic as possible, Bahrain Confidential couldn’t resist when given the opportunity to photograph the artists. For further details contact info@ludicaantiqua.com or log onto www.ludicaantiqua.com

52 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Fashion

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 53

Fashion

Credits: Photography: Mofeed Alawamei; +966 5637 10716; email: mofeed_sa@hotmail.com Creative Direction: Juni Capulong, Rebecca Cooksey Hair and Make-up: Giorgio Armani Cosmetics, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bahrain City Centre Location: Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa Models/Costumes: Ludica Antiqua Events Company

54 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Makeover Beauty

British expats and best friends Sam Baker and Noel Witter were the lucky winners of the Think Pink Charity Auction vouchers for makeover treatments. Sam, 45 is a nursery school teacher at St Christopher’s School and 25-year-old Noel is also a teacher at the British Preparatory Nursery.

Sam had a series of cosmetic treatments and both received image consultations, personal shopping advice, fabulous make-up and hair style changes - they got only the best from our experts.

Sam Baker before the makeover

They tell us a few words about their experiences: Noel: “The whole makeover experience was great fun, I have loved every minute of it! I want to thank the Bahrain Confidential team for taking the time to find out about me and what I wanted; and also to my new fashion guru Juni, who has made this mum-to-be look and feel beautiful. Here’s to the new me!”

Noel Witter before the makeover

Sam: “Wow, what an experience! Such a wonderful group of experienced professionals, giving me their precious time and advice. I’d like to thank them all, especially Juni Capulong for his mesmerising sketches and vision - and my thoroughly enjoyable shopping spree, and I don’t normally enjoy shopping!”

Sam’s Initial Consultation with Dr Dean

Sam’s Cosmetic Dermatology Consultation and Treatments with Dr Dean Cunha Gomes

Upon consultation, Dr Dean identified that Sam had Bell’s Palsy in the past which has left her with stronger muscle action on the right side of the face compared to the left. She had a few deep wrinkles and lines on her forehead, between her eyebrows and also crow’s feet.

Dr Dean noticed that Sam had flattened cheeks in the malar region (outer upper cheek area of the cheek) with deep lines between the nose and mouth (naso labial folds).The angles of her mouth were downturned, and had depressions on the sides, called marionette grooves.

Her skin was ruddy and she had jowls and loose neck skin. For her first treatment, Dr Dean gave Botox between the eyebrows and on the forehead, crow’s feet, lower eyelid, upper lip and chin. He also gave her some filler for a cheek lift and also to correct the angle of the mouth. For the second session, more Botox was used for a top up to the excessively strong muscles on the right side of the face, and Dr Dean used fillers for the crow’s feet, nasolabial folds, marionette grooves and fine cheek lines.

Contact Dr Dean Cunha Gomes, at the Royal Bahrain Hospital, Tel. +973 1724 6857 or +973 1724 6939.

Sam receives Botox Treatment from Dr Dean Interested in having a Makeover?

Tell us why you need one and what issues you want addressed. Email Competition@ArabianMagazines.com with the subject: ‘Makeover Competition’ with your full name and contact number and a picture of yourself.

56 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Beauty Noel’s Facial Treatment at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Spa

Noel had her facial using the new Phytomer Facial Treatments which help to recharge energies, re-establish the harmony between mind and body and rediscover the natural beauty of the skin. Noel’s facial was designed for dry and dehydrated skin known as the ‘Hydrating Facial Treatment’, based on the innovative technique of gauze compresses which fully release the moisturising efficiency of Pheohydrane and leaves the skin perfectly hydrated, soft and comfortable. For appointments, call The Diplomat Radisson Blu Spa on Tel. +973 1752 5237.

Noel’s Facial Treatment at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Spa Image Consultation and Personal Shopping with Juni Capulong

Sam and Noel have different tastes, but they complement each other through their jovial outlook in life. Noel is younger, girly and also three months pregnant, while Sam is earthy, mature, fun and high spirited.

Both combined, our session was fulfilling and delightful; I was able to look at their wardrobe and design some separates for them that will give some ‘oomph’ into their style of dressing. With the help of Reiss, Koton and Kurt Geiger; we selected some pieces that gave the make-over real magic, which we always aim for. We chose some drop dead gorgeous shoes and practical jersey ensembles that will accommodate Noel’s growing baby bump. We also used some classic dresses that enhanced Sam’s vibrant persona. All in all, being with them was a party! For image consultation, fashion and personal shopping advice, email Juni Capulong: junicaps@gmail.com

Noel’s Pre-Natal Yoga With Kate Bartram-Brown Noel’s Pre-Natal Yoga With Kate Bartram-Brown

Kate explained that it is so important when you are pregnant to listen to your body and do what suits you. “No one can tell you what you should be doing as everyone has different experiences. With that said, it is safe to do pre-natal yoga unless directed otherwise by a doctor.” Kate gave three top tips when you’re pregnant and want to explore yoga: 1. Breathing is key - It helps you to focus, empty your mind, calm the body, relax and energise. When pregnant we must breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth. This will also help in the delivery room so get the practice in now!

2. Rest - Resting in yoga recovery positions is a work out for your inner body, allowing you and your baby to energise and connect.

You should do this for at least 20 to 30 minutes in a chosen position per day.

3. Strengthen the pelvic floor muscles - Even ladies that haven’t given birth should be for at least 50 kegels per day ... remember there are different types of kegels so remember to vary them so all muscles get worked out. Keeping these muscles strong also helps during labour. Kate Bartram-Brown conducts Pre-natal Yoga and other yoga classes. Email: katebartram@gmail.com or Tel. +973 3696 7820.

Hair Styling and Makeup at Felda Cut and Style

Hair Styling and Makeup at Felda Cut and Style

Image Consultation and Personal Shopping with Juni Capulong

Sam had a very ash blonde colour and quite a blunt haircut. For a change, we used honey blonde as her base colour and a few natural blonde highlights to give shine and to match her skin tone.

As for the haircut, Felda created more layer to give plenty of volume and shape. Noel has a natural dark brown hair colour. Since Noel didn’t want a drastic change, we decided to apply chocolate brown for her base colour with golden ash blonde highlight on top to give contrast and shine. Her haircut was a change from her previous long layered style to a concave bob layered hairstyle. Felda Cut and Style Special Promotions: Get a package with facial care and body massage with a complimentary wash and blow dry for just BD45. Also receive a complimentary manicure or pedicure for every colour and haircut.

For appointments call Tel. +973 1722 4077.

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 57

Beauty

The Outcome!

r e t t i W l e o NSam Baker 58 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Beauty

Credits:

Creative Director: Juni Capulong of Kananu Arts Direction Photography: Shareef Panhatt, Harold Tejada, Gulf Photographers Network Hair and Make-up: Felda Cut and Style Clothes: New Look, Reiss and Koton, Bahrain City Centre Shoes: Kurt Geiger, Bahrain City Centre Bags and Accessories: Reiss and Koton, Bahrain City Centre

Next month:

Watch out for the makeover of Karin Andrews and Sue Addison!

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 59

Wellbeing

M.A.R.T.A. machine

Getting Into The

Zen

Lei Garden Skin Care is a new haven of tranquillity that’s certain to soothe away all your worries making you feel invigorated from the inside out.

L

ocated in the heart of Adliya, Lei Garden Skin Care was established in 2010 as an all-in-one centre that caters to all needs of the Face, Body, Mind and most importantly the Soul. Talking to founder Habiba Omran Al-Mosawi, she says this is the very core of Lei Garden Skin Care’s valued services. It’s a path to natural beauty, a state of physical, mental and emotional health. Lei Garden Skin Care concentrates on the person’s state of health from the inside and out.

What can one expect with a visit to her spa? Habiba assures it will be quite an experience with the spa’s Zen-inspired concept and custom-made design

60 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

brought

by Habiba’s understanding of the different cultures of places she has travelled to as well as taking into considerations the local Bahraini customs and traditions.

You’ll be assured that Habiba is quite the expert at what she does.

She’s a certified aesthetician certified

by Champlain Institute and Spa in Toronto, Canada and has trained at La Cremerie laboratories in Rome, Italy. Lei Garden Skin Care promises to deliver outstanding beauty and health wellness services along with its guaranteed and pure organic beauty and health products source from different parts of the world like California, Rome, Marrakesh and even Beirut.

All the products used are eco-friendly with biodegradable packaging and are petroleum and paraben-free. The Centre offers Slimming Body Treatment using C.A.V. Massage, Bamboo Massage and Colour Therapy.

The centre has also introduced some of the latest technologies used in the beauty industry that focuses on the needs of every woman’s face and body needs.

Habiba says, “Everybody wants a nonsurgical facelift and every woman wants to lose weight. We have a special machine called M.A.R.T.A., which is imported from Italy these are very much possible to achieve. “M.A.R.T.A. has a unique side to it which is the Lip Filler treatment. It gives you fuller lips for one night only. It’s a nonsurgical lip Botox treatment that takes just 20 minutes to achieve.”

There’s quite a treat here too. The beauty centre always ends its treatments with its signature wheat grass shots that is said to be a natural cleanser and consists of 97 vitamins and minerals that the body thrives upon for vitality and a long healthy life.

Another fantastic treat from Lei Garden Skin Care is the fish therapy that is also a first in the Kingdom. These famous Dr Fish from rivers in Turkey, Syria, Iran and Iraq are believed to have the powers to combat certain skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. These fish have no teeth and stick to your feet while continuing to eat dead skin cells, which will stimulate the growth of new skin cells

“M.A.R.T.A. has a unique side to it which is the Lip Filler treatment.

It gives you fuller lips for one night only.”

For appointments, Tel. +973 1729 0008; 39955539 you can also book online on www.leigardenskincare.com

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Beauty Pamper your Mum this Mother’s Day with these musthave fragrances from Faces!

Burt’s Bees – The Güd Stuff

The all-natural beauty line have launched a playful new collection called Güd. Some of our favourite products on offer include the nourishing shampoo and conditioner, body butter available in three delicious scents, foaming hand wash and hand cream in Floral Cherrynova, Orange Petalooza and Vanilla Flame.

Available online at www.gudhappens.com

BD4.5

Beauty

Buzz

Gucci Guilty Intense

Gucci Guilty Intense is an eau de parfum with a provocatively warm oriental floral scent.

Faces is available at Seef Mall, Riffa Mall and Country Mall.

BD45

Sonic Skin Cleansing System

BD6.9

BD15.9

BD3.9

Rêve de Miel is great for dry and sensitive skin caused by change in climatic conditions – a concern for local women in the region. This new range acts on the four major lipids of the skin barrier to replenish, soothe and repair your skin.

Nuxe is available at all JH Ruyan Pharmacy outlets.

Daisy eau so fresh is a bright, floral, fruity fragrance. Sophisticated but not too serious, it captures the vintage flavour of Marc Jacobs’ feminine, edgy designs.

The Sonic Skin Cleansing System uses a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth skin. In just 60 seconds, the brush gently, yet thoroughly removes six times more makeup and two times more dirt and oil than manual cleansing alone.

BD11

Nuxe’s latest innovationRêve de Miel

Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fraiche

Nicki Minaj for OPI

For Him ...

Singer Minaj has released her new collection for OPI nail polish featuring six fun colours including ‘Super Bass Shatter’, ‘Fly’, ‘Metallic 4 Life’ and ‘Pink Friday’.

Available at Va Va Voom, Bahrain City Centre.

50ml BD22

Kokorico by Jean Paul Gaultier

BD3.2 each

Jean Paul Gaultier’s powerful new men’s fragrance ‘Kokorico’ comes in a striking and unusual bottle with a trick of the eye. A man’s face is shown when viewed from the front which turns into a virile torso in profile.

BD5

Kiehl’s Ultimate Man Body Scrub Soap

The ‘Ultimate Man’ body scrub soap is a no-frills product from the house of Kiehl’s, using natural oat bran, oat kernel and pumice to exfoliate dead skin cells, refresh pores, and leaves you feeling clean and refreshed.

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

62 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Beauty BD1.2

BD1.5

BD2

BD1.5

BD9

BD2

BD2/each

BD7.5

BD4.5/each

We invite you to treat yourself, or someone you love, to something special from the newest beauty range from Marks and Spencer.

BD4

The new beauty range can help women find the perfect product for them. Look after your skin whatever your age, with their specialist range of skincare products - from anti-ageing moisturisers and serums to solutions for dry or sensitive skin.

Find some indulgent make-up from the range suitable for your skin type; or splurge on some bath and spa products - their selection includes luxurious body lotions and dreamy creams certain to make you clamouring for more! While you’re at it, show off those pretty nails of yours with their perfect new polish collection.

Visit Marks and Spencer today and rediscover the joys of being pampered!

BD9

BD6

BD2.5/each

BD7.5 BD7.5 BD7.5 Marks and Spencer is located at Seef Mall.

64 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Beauty

Dr Dean Cunha Gomes of the Royal Bahrain Hospital explains summer skin care and provides tips on scars, rosacea and the danger of sun exposure.

Dr Dean Cunha Gomes

Ask Dr Dean Is tea tree oil the best thing to get rid of spots?

Tea tree oil may cause allergies or a rash in some people who are sensitive to the product. Spots could be active acne or just marks from previous acne. There are a lot of medicated products for active acne like creams, lotions and tablets. For the marks, various procedures like peels and lasers may be performed.

better to use a sunscreen judiciously, avoid the sun and take Vitamin D supplements.

physician may be required to diagnose the cause of the problem.

Can sun exposure encourage moles?

Moles are not developed by sun exposure.

They are acquired genetically. Sun exposure may trigger freckles, sun spots, pre-cancerous lesions and non melanoma skin cancers.

I have very bad rosacea with visible red veins in my cheeks. Is there a particular type of food or medicine to help calm it?

There are various medicines available to calm rosacea depending on the condition.

A dietary link hasn’t been substantiated yet. Lasers help significantly to obliterate the red veins on the face and to calm it.

“Certain individuals may be predisposed to developing sun induced pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions, especially those with red hair and blue eyes.”

Why do I have black areas underneath my eyes that won’t go away?

You may need to consult a doctor, it could be due to anaemia, thinning of skin, allergies, eyesight problems, etc. Medical treatment may be required and a course of mesotherapy eye treatments can improve dark circles considerably. Small quantities of filler for the deep groove below the eyes reduces dark circles too.

The weather is warming up, should people limit their time in the sun or avoid it altogether?

Sunlight is essential for health as Vitamin D is synthesised on sun exposure. However certain individuals may be predisposed to developing sun induced pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions (people with fair skin who burn rather than tan and individuals with red hair/blue eyes). For these individuals it may be

My lips are often dry and chapped, despite using balms. Is there anything else I can do?

Do not lick your lips and seek medical advice.

You could be suffering from an allergy or an exfoliating disorder, where medical treatment will help significantly.

I am very prone to mouth ulcers, why is this?

Mouth ulcers maybe caused by trauma, infections, smoking, immune disorders and vitamin deficiencies. A consultation with a

What can I do to improve my scars after surgery?

Scars are treated with scar creams and gels to help convert immature to mature scars. Sometimes silicone gel sheets may be used to improve scars. In some scars where keloidal changes have occurred, injections with steroids along with the gel sheets can help reduce and flatten them

For further information or consultations, contact Dr Dean Cunha Gomes, MS, MCh, MRCS [Glasg], DHSA [Can]; Consultant Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon at the Royal Aesthetic Centre, Royal Bahrain Hospital. Tel. +973 1724 6857 or +973 1724 6939.

If you have any skin or body concerns that you think Dr Gomes can help you with please email your question to info@ArabianMagazines.com 66 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Under the patronage of

H.M. King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa

15th Annual AMH Island Classic Charity Golf Tournament

From March 1st to 3rd, 2012, we’ll be playing Championship Golf on HM’s Private Golf Course in Bahrain. The 18-hole Charity Golf Tournament is held in support of American Mission Hospital for its charity care program, new clinics and equipment fund.

Call the Island Classic Hotline For more information or sponsorship Tel: 17253447 Ext 266 or Direct: 17248136

Health

Health Updates People Who Work Eleven Hours Twice Likely to Suffer Depression

Researchers found that the odds of a major depressive episode are more than double for those working eleven or more hours a day compared to those working seven to eight hours a day. The authors, led by Marianna Virtanen of the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health and University College London, followed about 2,000 middle aged British civil servants and found a “robust” association between overtime work and depression. The correlation was not affected when the analysis was adjusted for various possible confounders, including socio-demographics, lifestyle, and work-related factors. Dr Virtanen said: “Although occasionally working overtime may have benefits for the individual and society, it is important to recognise that working excessive hours is also associated with an increased risk of major depression.” The report was published in the online journal PLoS ONE.

68 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Health

Signs of Autism at Six Months

Early signs of autism can be detected in babies as young as six months by measuring their brain activity, a study has found for the first time. Measuring the response in babies’ brains as someone looks at them or looks away can help predict which will go on to develop further symptoms of autism, researchers said. Children are not currently given a conclusive diagnosis of autism until after the age of two as the behavioural signs associated with the condition become more clear. Although brain scans are not a completely accurate predictor of which babies will develop autism, researchers said they could help alert parents earlier than ever before of the possible risk.

Prof Mark Johnson of Birkbeck, University of London, who led the study, said their findings demonstrate for the first time that direct measures of brain functioning during the first year of life associate with a later diagnosis of autism, well before the emergence of behavioural symptoms. The researchers, who published their work in the Current Biology journal, examined 54 babies with a family history of autism and 50 controls, all aged six to ten months, while they were shown faces which either switched to look at or away from them.

Mother’s Love can Prevent Illness in Middle Age

Statins ‘Could Treat Breast Cancer’ in Future

Statins, prescribed to millions of people in Britain to lower cholesterol, could be used to treat breast cancer in some women.

Scientists have found evidence that women with breast cancer who carry a particular gene mutation could benefit from statin therapy. Although they emphasised the research was at much too early a stage to make any “definitive conclusions”, they said it had “great implications”. The research centres on a gene called p53, which usually suppresses cancerous cells. However, very frequently the gene mutates, giving it new erroneous functions that promote cancer formation, resulting in disorganised, invasive growth of cells. It is already known that more than half of all human cancers carry mutations of the p53 gene, according to the authors, writing in the journal Cell. In a laboratory study, William Freed-Pastor and Carol Prives of Columbia University in the US, and colleagues, showed that treating breast cells carrying mutant p53 genes with statins reduced their invasive growth. In some cases the cells died. Prives, professor of biology at Columbia, said: “The data raises the possibility that we might identify subsets of patients whose tumors may respond to statins.” However, these were observational studies that could not prove causality.

Neither did they investigate a potential reason for the apparent reduction in cancer.

Experts say that a mum who nurtures and cares for her kids can set them up in good health right, even if they’ve grown up in grinding poverty. Research has already proven that kids who grow up in poor areas are more likely to suffer from chronic illness in adulthood, but US researchers were puzzled why some children bucked this trend. A closer look at adults who’d come from a deprived background revealed that a stressful childhood increased the chances of a kid suffering illnesses such as diabetes, a stroke or high blood pressure later in life.

However, adults at risk of these illnesses who’d grown up with a loving mother were found to be in better health overall than others who hadn’t been as close to their mums. Researchers think this is because of the empathy, coping strategies and self-respect taught by loving mums to their kids. The team, from Brandeis University in Massachusetts assessed 1,000 adults for illnesses associated with lower socio-economic status, such as diabetes and strokes. They also followed 1,200 people over ten years to try and see what affects maternal nurturing had on their overall health. Study author Professor Margie Lachman, whose findings were published in journal Psychological Science said: “The stresses of childhood can leave a biological residue that shows up in midlife. Yet, among those at risk for poor health, adults who had nurturing mothers in childhood fared better in physical health in midlife.”

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 69

Health

Analysing The Squat

by Roberta Trzebinski

A squat is such a functional movement and yet only a few of us will manage to create the correct pattern of movement, recruiting the appropriate muscles, sequencing and flowing from one position to the next effortlessly.

Have a look at these images - which are in your opinion the correct way of squatting?

(A)

(C)

(B)

(F)

(G)

(H)

Which would you say looks effortless and yet challenging? Which movement is useful in everyday life? Think about it: a squat is like sitting on a chair, and how often do we do that during our average day? 20 times?

Maybe more? How often we pick something up from the floor, pick our children/ grandchildren from their cot, their strollers?

How often we pick up things that have fallen from the floor? How is the back whilst we perform these actions? Is it like any of the above or does it look more like a round back forward bend? (Image G) Depending on our level of flexibility, our strength and our understanding of this movement each of us will perform the squat in a different way, compensating and struggling at times which eventually causes our spine to collapse and back or knee pain ensue.

Understanding the movement can help achieve better results and stay away from injuries. The squat initiates from the hips, the knees and the ankles will move as a consequence. The squat is a complex movement comprising a hip flexion, a knee flexion and an ankle flexion in that order.

Range of movement can be increased with practice and other stretching exercises, however it is generally recommended that

70 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

(E)

(D)

(I)

Roberta Trzebinski

Benefits of Squatting: • Re-educates our bodies to do things we naturally did as children, hinging at the hips without using the back or the neck.

• Uses almost every muscle in our body either in a mobilising or stabilising way.

• Improves sport specific performance like high jump, long distance running , sprinting; no matter what sport it will make you stronger and more explosive.

• Tones and tightens your butt • Improves balance • Gives you great abs • Can be performed anywhere anytime – so no excuses for not exercising • Stimulates your body to produce growth hormones and testosterone, anabolic hormones which are vital for muscle growth • There is no better exercise to maintain mobility and strengthen the legs and the latest research has confirmed that leg strength is critical to maintaining mobility as we age.

(J)

form rather than range is maintained so as to avoid a posterior tilt of the pelvis and a lumbar flexion like (Image E) at the end range of the movement. Flexibility may be limited by muscle tightness/size, joint constraints or strength. For example, an individual with large calves and thighs may not even be able to achieve a parallel position, since their calves and lower hamstrings would be smashed together in this position. One should only perform full range for their particular range of motion. Even a three-quarter squat may end up challenging some people’s flexibility.

In addition the soleus or poor dorsiflexion in the ankle joint may be suspect if the heel cannot be kept on the floor while the knee travels forward in the squat position. After all, Full Squats may be appropriate to achieve for certain athletes competing at an Olympic level (Image H), but a parallel squat (Image I) may be achieved by many individuals.

Bearing in mind too that great flexibility may not necessarily be a beneficial attribute for many sports. When struggling to achieve the correct form, practising in a closed kinetic chain (Image C) would be recommended.

Using proprioceptive feedback, like resistance bands and instability training could retrain an incorrect pattern of movement.

Warning: Do not squat if you are not using proper techniques. That’s how you injure your knees! Take your time to learn or lelearn how to squat and then add weights and increase range and complexities to a very simple and natural movement.

Roberta Claudia Trzebinski, the founder of Studio RCT (Rehabilitation, Contrology Therapies) is a certified STOTT PILATES® Instructor Trainer and all round fitness trainer.

She teaches Pilates, Bosu and H.I.I.T. (High Intensity Interval Training) at her studio in Sanabis. For further information about mixed classes, ladies only or one-on-one, Tel. +973 3944 5816 or log on to www.pilatesbahrain.com

Wellbeing

The Right Relationship

Kelly Armatage

Kelly Armatage our resident Counsellor, Life Coach and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist talks about why our happiness depends mostly on … ourselves.

O

ne of the most common reasons my clients come for counselling is due to dissatisfaction, hurt and general dysfunctionality within their relationships. Too often, clients ask for guidance on ways to ‘fix’ and ‘change’ their spouses, so that they can ‘gain’ happiness and love. Statements such as, ‘if only my husband would give me more affection and take me for romantic dinners, our marriage would be better’; ‘If only my boyfriend would propose, I would then be happy’.

These are powerless and insecure thoughts that enhance anger, a neverending cycle of low self esteem and no change in the relationship. This is because the mind is totally focused on external people and themselves in a fearful and irrational way.

A positive mindset to have is, ‘only oneself can create one’s own happiness’. This is very true, as one of the only things within our control is our happiness. It is not dependent on anything or anyone external. Our own thoughts, actions and behaviour, which create our happiness, is the only thing within our power. If we are directing our thoughts externally on people and outcomes that are uncontrollable, we actually exasperate and amplify a negative situation. Never, ever does another person acting a certain way create our own happiness.

Let’s take the example of the wife who ‘needs’ attention and romantic dinners to gain what she thinks is a stronger connection and an ‘experience’ of happiness. Without the ‘gain’ of that attention, she becomes more resentful towards her spouse, and goes into nagging, angry or shutdown mode and actually pushes away that which she

desires. If however, she has another mindset such as carrying out activities for her own happiness (like taking herself for a romantic dinner), she would then exude feelings of confidence and happiness because of her own self nurturance she’s someone high in self esteem which incidentally, is very attractive. By also having positive thoughts of her husband treating her romantically (as opposed to thoughts of him not treating her as she would like), she makes way for that

beautiful, romantic dinner and deeper connection to actually come her way.

Why? Because she is creating her own happiness first and foremost and not relying on someone to do that for her.

Secondly, she is in harmony with thinking positively about treatment from others, so via the law of attraction, her romantic partner actually materialises.

Often clients want more respect, more attention, more love and less mistreatment.

Yet is it true they are treating others with respect, more love, more attention? Via

“Via karma, whatever you emit out to others returns to you.” karma, whatever you emit out to others returns to you. If you want respect from others, be sure to show it first and foremost.

If you want more affection from others, ask yourself if you are actually giving any, or are you holding a grudge for that which is ‘absent’? By releasing the grudge and then focusing on lavishing affection on others, two things happen: 1) you feel the amazing feeling of unconditional giving and 2) you actually get that which you desire boomeranging back. Win, Win! So many clients wish for the ‘right relationship’, yet do they have the right relationship with themselves? Are they owners of the right, positive and fearless thoughts? Do they act out the right, positive and giving/forgiving actions? Are they exhibitors of the right, positive and powerful feelings of non-victimhood? Do they display dignity for themselves and all they come into contact with? So if you are sitting there wondering if the relationship you are in currently is the right one, or you are waiting for the right relationship to come, ask yourself if you are treating yourself and others (in both your thoughts and actions) with all that is right ….

Kelly Armatage Inc - Offering Counselling, Life Coaching and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. For enquiries, Tel. +973 3993 1399 or visit www.kellyarmatage.com. All feedback on Kelly’s services and articles are always greatly received. Please email: info@kellyarmatage.com

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 71

A ‘ T ail’ Of Survival Community

Who would have thought the pets in this photo shoot were once abused, abandoned and left for dead? Bahrain Confidential teamed up with Pet Arabia and kitted out the pets in the most adorable outfits. We threw in lots of love and attention and voila, they were simply fantastic to work with!

Zoey and Jamie The family took the dogs over a year ago when they were about six weeks old. They had been abandoned in a wasteland behind a friend’s house and the family had asked if anyone would like to adopt any of the four puppies found. Francine says, “Zoey loves attention and will physically move your hand or arm with her head (with serious force) if she wants to be patted. Jamie likes to run towards the car as we drive in. We’ll beep the horn to warn her to move and she will simply tilt her head to the side as if to say ‘What’s up with you?’”

Francine and Ian

Rebecca

Zoey

Karly 72 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Community Sparky Farah Naim

Pedro

Pedro and Sparky Matt

Pedro the dog was adopted last January from the BSPCA. He is about a year old. Farah says he loves to sleep on any bed. “We have to close all the bedroom doors as he has his own ‘sofa’ as his bed. If we go in the car, he will insist on sitting in front beside the driver!”

Sparky the male cat was rescued from a drain back in Farah’s home country of Malaysia in 2005. He’s now approximately eight years old.

“Sparky loves to sleep and snuggle by my legs under the duvet on the bed or any covers - day or night.”

Haute Couture Art Deco in Black/Nickel

BD57

Jamie BD38

Daisy in Papal Purple March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 73

Community Sandy and Puppy Paws The family got Puppy Paws first when she was only six months old. Vikki’s daughter Sophia was petrified of dogs - even little ones then one day, while playing outside she went missing down the side of their villa. “We live close to a large wasteland area and there was my daughter sitting with this white six-month old puppy, cuddling it,” says Vikki. The next day the same thing happened - after school Sophia went onto the wasteland and was cuddling this adorable dog again; the next day this puppy was at their gate and they decided to keep her. That was two years ago.

David

Vikki adds that, “Last year, we were walking Puppy Paws one afternoon and a little girl who lives on the farm close to their villa said, ‘Don’t let Puppy Paws eat my puppies round there’. As we went round the corner there were four puppies only about six weeks old, dumped under a bush.

So we got a box and collected the puppies and made them a home in our shower and fed them porridge and puppy milk. I then asked all my friends on Facebook if anyone wanted to take any of the puppies and two of them, Zoe and Jamie, went to Francine (as they appear in this shoot) and another one went to another friend. We kept Sandy so that she could be a friend for Puppy Paws.”

Puppy Paws was quite scared of Sandy to begin with especially as Sandy kept biting and hanging off Puppy Paws’ neck, but she soon started mothering her and carrying her around by the scruff of her neck and they are now good friends and get on very well.

Vikki

Sophia

Puppy Paws

74 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Sandy

Community Madeleine

Ferris

Danielle

Skippy and Ferris

Skippy

Skippy is the white girl and Ferris both turn six this year, and Danielle’s had them since they were babies from the New South Wales Ferret Society in Sydney, Australia whilst attending university there.

The ferrets are always finding strange places and positions to sleep in, Skippy especially. Danielle says, “I wholeheartedly advocate adopting animals over purchasing them like designer accessories. You are looking for a companion, so personality should be key, and there is much more profound bond on both sides with an animal you have rescued. I highly recommend getting animals in pairs.

They keep each other company, force each other to exercise through play and it’s double the fun for you!”

Samah Luca Samah Khan has had Luca since he was three months old. She relates: “I was at Nonie Coutt’s (veterinary clinic) for my other cat Lucy’s second vaccination and I was told there was a kitten who looked similar to Lucy who was found almost dead near La Chocolat (the vets at the clinic named him Chocolate). He was so malnourished and tiny and the vet was going to put him to sleep because she said putting him back out on the street was a death sentence.

Samah tells us, “They couldn’t find a home for him and the second I saw him, I fell in love and took him in. Initially, he didn’t trust anyone at all. So after trying to befriend him a few times, I came up with a new tactic. I sat on the floor without making any movements and waited for him to come to me himself. After 20 minutes, his curiosity got the best of him and he came up to me and sniffed me (I didn’t move the whole time) for a while and then finally licked me. And from then on, I’ve been his mummy!”

Luca

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 75

Community Lulu and Jasper Britta Tappendorf (not in picture) and her husband Boris found five Salukis in a cage on an animal farm in March last year - dirty, sick, and starving. Britta rescued one immediately (Lulu, her first ever Saluki).

“I started to rescue all Salukis in need in Bahrain. I keep them until I discover everything about them - how they are with children, cats, etc., and when I think that they are fine, I give them to loving homes and only with a protection contract. Three of them found a new home in Europe and will be shipped soon,” says Britta.

“Lulu is a lovely hound, good with children and other animals. She adopted kittens and gave them milk, and she loves everything that’s moving. She loves to sleep for a long time and when I’m trying to get her out of her bed, she doesn’t listen.

She starts crying and rolling and there’s no way to get her up (only if I carry her out). Jasper was found injured at Alosra Roundabout and taken to the BSPCA. I was informed and adopted him immediately. He was very sad and skinny when he arrived in September last year. He turned into a very happy and funny dog. He loves to run in our 5,000-square metre garden and he’s very playful. He’s the best uncle for the puppies, he takes care of them and plays with them.”

Boris

To find out more about Britta’s Saluki Rescue, visit Facebook: Saluki Shelter Bahrain.

Jasper

Lulu

Credits:

Help a pet in need today.

Bahrain Confidential and Pet Arabia highly recommend pet adoption.

Turn to our pet section on pages 108-109

76 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Pet outfits, toys and accessories: Pet Arabia located in Budaiya, Tel. +973 1759 2288 and at Amwaj Islands, Tel. +973 1601 0501.

Make-up: Hannan Khadhrawi from Clarins at Faces (Seef Mall, Country Mall and Riffa Mall) Photography: Harold Tejada, Gulf Photographers Network

WE LOVE WINNERS!!!!!!!!!!

Here are last month’s lucky winners of our fabulous competitions: Bahrain City Centre Shopping Voucher: Kathy Knight Pauline Castro Danielle Doporto Mariam Marhoon Angela Pires Dr Dean’s Velasmooth Pro for Cellulite and Skin Tightening: Dawn West Winners of Two (2) Velasmooth Pro Complimentary Sessions: Euna Aguiar Carol Reeder Yvette Marie Guevara Angela Pires Hana Sarwani Elize Knuppel

Daniela Burt Maha Mohammed Prescilla D’Cunha Samar Muradi

Opinion

Celebrating

World Water Day

Eng. Rehan Ahmed

World Water Day (WWD) celebrated globally on 22nd March of each year, is held to raise awareness about water conservation and aims to implement UN recommendations and carry out appropriate concrete measures at individual, local and national levels.

W

orld Water Day is a global day of ceremony that aims to increase people’s awareness about water’s importance in all aspects of life, focus on the judicious use of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of water resources.

The 2012 World Water Day celebrations will be in Marseille, France, host to the World Water Forum from 16th to 22nd March 2012. Each year, the United Nations selects different themes for World Water Day. The theme this year is water and food security: ‘The World is Thirsty Because We are Hungry.’

Current population explosion, rapid economic growth and urbanisation means that demand for food, water and energy is increasing manifolds in all parts of the world.

Meeting the rising demand for food and the related energy needs is leading to a significant increase in demand for water and to further degradation of water resources and ecosystems through over use and pollution.

There is a danger that a considerable gap will develop in near future between available water resources and demand. This will exacerbate the gap in supply of water in the more arid regions of the world and hinder food production and energy generation causing disruption in our daily lives.

According to the UN, food security exists when anyone can satisfy their dietetic needs in order to have an active and healthy life; and water is one of the fundamental factors for food production.

This problem can be better understood when we realise that we only require a maximum of five litres of water to drink but around 3,000 litres of water is required to

produce the food that one person needs each day and at present, this quantity is not guaranteed.

Some key figures on the amount of water needed for our diet shows that beef requires 15,000 litres per kg, sheep meat 10,000, chicken meat 2,800, eggs 4,700, cereals 1,500, fruits and vegetables 1,000, cheese 5,300 and milk 900 litres per kg.

While water needed to produce a kilo of wheat requires 1,000 litres.

Safe drinking water is essential to humans and other life forms. Though

The UN World Water Development Report indicates that in the next 20 years, the quantity of water available to everyone is predicted to decrease by 30 per cent mainly due to population growth, urbanisation and changes to dietary conditions. Climate change is also expected to impact the most food insecure populations first.

Thus, the solution lies in increasing agricultural productivity (supply), improving water management practices (efficiency), revising consumption patterns (demand) and re-working water management agreements (governance).

The present situation call for a series of actions we can all help with: • Consume less water-intensive products.

• Reduce food wastage as 30 per cent of the food produced worldwide is never eaten and the water used to p roduce it is definitively lost.

• Produce more food, of better quality, with less water.

access to safe drinking water has improved over the last decades in almost every part of the world, but approximately 1 billion people still lack access to safe water and over 2.5 billion lack access to adequate sanitation. It is estimated that by 2025 more than half of the world population will be facing water-based vulnerability.

Poor water quality and bad sanitation are deadly, some 5 million deaths a year are caused by polluted drinking water. The World Health Organisation estimates that providing safe water could prevent 1.4 million child deaths from diarrhoea each year.

Celebrating WWD means to take action by educating ourselves on the subject, planning and taking individual actions that can save our dwindling water resources.

We can try the following water conservation tips at home: • Repair and fix any water leaks.

• Use a water-efficient showerhead and take shorter showers.

• Turn off the water while tooth brushing, shaving and face washing.

• Clean vegetables, fruits, dishes and utensils with minimum water. Don’t let the water run while rinsing.

• Install the instant water heater in the kitchen to avoid cold water wastage further reducing energy costs.

• Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full.

• Upgrade older toilets with water efficient models.

• Learning to turn off faucets tightly after each use.

• Wash your car with less waster and do it on the lawn to wet the grass at the same time n

Rehan Ahmed is Head of Waste Disposal Unit, Directorate of Environmental Control, Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife, Bahrain. Email: rehan900@gmail.com

78 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Society

Society If you don’t spot a picture of yourself or your friends on our Society Pages, you can always check our online newsletter which is updated regularly. Visit www.FashionArabia.net

DHL Annual Day Delebration

The Annual Day Celebration of DHL was held on 25th January at Gulf Hotel. The best performing employee received the ‘Employee of the Year’ award.

Faisal Salehi and CEO of DHL Express Middle East and North Africa Nour Sulaiman

Belinda and Ujja

2011 Employees of the Year awardees with DHL Top management

Airside Support Manager at DHL Express Norge Faisal Salehi, Gari, Mohammed and Ahmed

Lynne and Helen

AWA Cooking Demonstration at The Butcher Shop and Grill

The American Women’s Association (AWA) cooking demonstration took place at Butcher Shop and Grill in Bahrain City Centre on 25th January.

Renata and Susie

Mary Kay and Joyce

Sharon and Cynthia

Secha and Paullette

Jaclynn, Tarek, Kim, Genesis and Biju

Datta AWA members with Butcher Shop and Grill management team

February 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 79

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Republic Day of India Reception

Ambassador of India HE Mohan Kumar hosted a reception for invited guests at the Awal Ballroom, Gulf Hotel on the occasion of the 62nd Anniversary of the Republic Day of India on 26th January.

HE Shaikh Khalid Al Khalifa and Indian Ambassador to Bahrain HE Mohan Kumar with VIP guests during the cake cutting ceremony Bonnie, Mala and Bridget Lindsay

Milena Padula, Jalil Ansari, Italian Ambassador to Bahrain HE Enrico Padula and Michel Mandrea

Abdulla Juma and Abdul Nabi Shoala

Rev Fr KJ Samuel, Rev Fr Renji Varghese and Mary

Nalini, Vani, Anasuya, Suvasini, Niveditta and Thanuja

Nabeel AbdulRahman Ajoor and Tareq Taqi

Media Advisory BACES Dinner

Bahraini American Cultural Exchange Society (BACES) conducted the Media Advisory Dinner at Mรถvenpick Hotel on 25th January.

Abdull Aziz, Fahad and Ahmed

Layla, Brad and Sara

Dr Mubarak and Adnan

Rashid and Kari

Shana and Sana Noora, Janan, Eman, Shana, Hana and Nasreen

80 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Hussain and Ala

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Emma’s Bachelorette Party at Señor Pacos

Emma Whinnery celebrated her Bachelorette Party with friends on 27th January at Señor Pacos.

Natasha and Mima

Sophie, Ashley, Emma and Danielle

George Halim and Peter Hallmanns

Sophie, Sarah, Laura and Apple

Katie and Mier

Kelly, Fern and Karry

Natasha and Bridgette

Fonterra Anchor Master Chef

The Anchor Master Chef challenge was held on 25th January at Jawad Dome in the presence of three top teams of two chefs from hotels and restaurants across the country.

Tanvir

Ashokan

Sing

Sunil and Jeremy

Rajapaksha

Wild West Third Birthday Party

A Wild West Third birthday party was conducted for Ivana and Dominic Vior’s daughter Victoria on 27th January at Juffair with entertainment from a magician and several games.

Ivana, Victoria and Dominic

Esther, Ari, Riza, Yuki, Rina, Huria and Endah

Victoria with guests

Santi, Usep, Angle, Ega, Ivana, Victoria, Ester, Vera and Erna

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 81

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Lohri Festival

Quantran Systems Gulf LLC celebrated Lohri, the North Indian Festival at a private hall in Tubli with a bonfire on 13th January.

Sanjay, Anil, Soni, Dhram and Diviji

Quantran Systems Gulf LLC staff

(front row) Ratheesh, Alam, Diviji and Karuna, (back row) Kashyap, Surabh and Amit

Parthasarathi and his wife Sumita

Diviji, Bhatia, Lambha and Anil Shorma

Graduation Ceremony of AMA International University

The graduation ceremony of AMA International University was held on 24th January at the Gulf Hotel Convention Centre, in the presence of Ambassador Amable M Aguiluz V, President of the AMA International University Chairman and Founder of AMA Education System.

HE Amable M Aguiluz V

Asma, Shaikha and May

Zahra, Zainab and Asma

BSP Elects New Set of Officers for 2012

Filipino Club - Barkadahan sa Potograpiya (BSP) elected their new set of officers in Hoora on 26th January. The group aims to educate photography hobbyists and share knowledge to those who wish to improve their passion and share camaraderie at the same time.

Ely Garcia, Melvin Olaguer, Marites Mendoza, Franny Calaunan (BSP President), Enrico Bascon, Rosemarie Gala and Galahad Entereso

Philip, Harold, Mardy, Joni, Enrico, Don, Rose, Bobbi, Ni単o and Cherry Mae

Filipino Club - Barkadahan Sa Potograpiya

Arnel, Benji, Alvin, Aineeh, Alfredo, Marites, Mario, Manny, Melvin and Carl

82 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Moh’d Omar Khalil’s Solo Exhibition at Albareh

Albareh Art Gallery held the solo exhibition, ‘A Bridge Between Two Worlds’ by artist Mohammed Omar Khalil on 5th February.

Morocco’s Ambassador HE Ahmed Rasheed Khattabi and Artist Mohammed Omar Khalil

Ahmed, HE Taha Mohammed Abdul-Qadir, Ahmad Ali El Zein, Kamal, HE Mohammed bin Isa, Mohammed Omar Khalil, Majid Jawad Al-Jishi, HE Ahmed Rasheed Khattabi and Najib Freji

Palestinian Ambassador HE Taha Mohammed Abdul-Qadir and Jamal Fakhro

HE Enrico Padula and Milena Padula

Faika and Jehan

Majed

Mohammed Omar Khalil and Abdul Rahim Sharif

Flying Ramsay Crowned Emirates Airline Invitational Champion

Scotland’s Richie Ramsay was crowned champion of the 2012 Emirates Airline Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah after a blistering round of 10 under 62 at Yas Links Golf Club saw him finish two strokes clear of Thorborn Olesen and Richard Finch.

Richie Ramsay and Abdullah Al Naboodah with the Emirates Team

Fashion Network Press Conference

Fashion Network held a press conference on 28th January at The K Hotel Bahrain with guest speakers from England and Bahrain.

Hamra Alam, Rehan Alam and Arabian Magazines’ Redia Castillo

Noor, Fay and Samia

Hamra, Stina and Naomi

Mohammed and Ali Al Oliwi

Anna

Naeema Al Balooshi

Trevor Burt and Rehan Alam

Ali Al Oliwi

Nikole and Yosef

Ali and Marwa

Jill and Una

Abdul Ali Al A’Ali and Ahmed Al A’Ali

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 83

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Art Exhibition by 100 Bahraini Children

Albareh Art Gallery presented an exclusive exhibition on inspiring artwork by 100 Bahraini children on 28th January. 100 children from three local schools took part in a creative artwork project entitled, ‘Learning through Art’.

Managing Director and Principal Curator of Albareh Art Gallery Hayfa Al Jishi (top, 5th from left) and Anchor officials with participants

BBK Annual Staff Party

Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK) held its annual staff party on 26th January at Gulf Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel.

Rafa and Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa

Axel Hofmann, Cecilia and Abdul Karim Ahmed Abdul Rahman Bucheery

Ali Al Ansar, Ali, Sumaya, Sumaya,Aysha, Aisha Abeer and Ebrahim and Ebrahim

Reyadh and Faten

Mahmood Janahi and Ali Janahi

Zainab and Fatima

Batool, Rafa, Abeer and Alia

BBK Announces USD500k Prize Winner

BBK held the grand prize draw for USD500,000 on 1st February at Al Hayrat on the occasion of Al Hayrat’s ten-year anniversary.

Fawzea Marzooq Ali Al Marzooq, a Bahraini housewife from Sehla, was announced as the lucky grand prize winner.

Padam and Kamala

Fawzea Marzooq and Abdul Karim Ahmed Abdul Rahman Bucheery

Ali Al Ansari, Renaldo, Axel Hofmann, Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and Mazin

Yasmeen, Lattifa and Sara

Rabih and Saher Talal, Fawzea and Fatima

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Mohamed, Aisha, Abeer, Ghazi, Nada and Alia

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Porsche 911 Carrera Launch

Porsche Centre Behbehani Brothers WLL held an exclusive launch of Porsche’s legendary model - the new Porsche 911 Carrera on 30th January at Gulf Hotel to delight of VIP guests and members of the media.

Managing Director at Porsche ME George Wills, Peter Green and Saher Al-Alami and Hussain Shirazi

Louise and Melissa

Honorary Consul Konstantinos Pallikaropoulos and Raymond

Osama, Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Isa Al Kooheji and Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa

Nasser Al Arayedh, Philippines Ambassador to Bahrain HE Ma Corazon Yap-Bahjin and David Blumer

Morgan Sunderland and Mike Ellenthorpe

Abdul Wahab Al Hawaj, Nancy, Nabeel AbdulRahman Ajoor, Jassim Al Bastaki and Khalid Al Khaja

Rodolphe Melki, Ali Al Ammadi and Mohammed Yousif

Craig Wrigt and Cpt Nassar Al Salmi

Mahmood and Abdullah Al Haddad

Bashar Al-Shaikh and Yousif Al Dawadi

Jarrish and Dominic Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Munir Mamujee and Nick Cooksey

Launch of Porsche’s legendary model

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 85

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Ministry of Culture’s Tourism Sector Launches New Call Centre

The Ministry of Culture’s Tourism sector launched a new Call Centre at the Bahrain National Museum on 26th January.

HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa

Japanese Ambassador to Bahrain HE Shigeki Sumi and HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa

Assistant Undersecretary for Tourism Nada Ahmed Yaseen

Silah Gulf Chief Executive Joe Tawfik

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Employee Awards Ceremony

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain held an awards ceremony for its employees on 31st January at Al Murjan Ballroom.

Adel and Michelle

Demel, Hussain, Abdulla and Jessy

Balaji and Rizza

Sumaya and Balaji

Heinz and Francesco

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain staff

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Farewell Party

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain held a farewell party for its Front Office Manager Bassem Fatooh in Flamingo Bar on 2nd February.

Francesco, Sumaya, Hussain, Bassem and Heinz

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Management Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Front Office Manager Bassem Fatooh

Heinz, Francesco and Bassem Fatma and Khalid

86 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Demel, Sumaya, Bassem, Mohammed, Evangeline and Abdul Nabi

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Venetian Grand Ball

The Second Grand Ball with the theme based on the traditional Venetian Carnival was attended by VIPs and diplomats and was held on 3rd February at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa.

Adel Fakhro, Huda and Mona Yousif Almoayyed

Italian Ambassador wife Milena Padula and Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa

Liliane, Tomoko and Merilyn

Mark, Heinz and Marcus

Dee, Walter and Rebecca

Hamed Al Zayani, British Ambassador HE Iain Lindsay and US Ambassador HE Thomas Krajeski

Leena, Bettina and Susie

Jawad Al Hawaj and Naeema

Bonnie, Mala and Bridget

Marleno and Robert

British Ambassador HE Iain Lindsay, Tomoko Sumi, Japanese Ambassador HE Shigeki Sumi, Dr Hassan Fakhro and Angela Fakhro

Lucia and Luca

Anood, Dr Basher, Zayed Al Zayani and Tahani

Jessica and Daniele

Warren, Weena, Nick, Francoise and William

Salonee and Ale

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 87

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Batelco Host A Special Event in Support of World Cancer Day

Batelco, in cooperation with Bahrain Cancer Society organised an Open Day programmes which aim to encourage members of the community to support the needs of children with cancer and their families at Batelco Staff Centre to mark the occasion of World Cancer Day on 4th February.

Shamsa and Khulood

Jwaher, Mohammed, Khalid and Lalaa

Sumaya and Balaji Faisal, Fatma and Mohammed Abdulrahman,

Sara, Zeinab, Abbas, Fadhel and Malak

Mohammed Khalfan, Mariam and Cynthia

BFLC Charity Event Lunch The Bahrain Family Leisure Company BSC (BFLC) held a charity lunch for Bahraini children beneficiaries on 31st January at Ponderosa Steakhouse, Seef complex.

Abdulrahman, Dana (Royal Charity Organisation) and Cynthia

Mercure Staff Party

The Mercure staff party was held at the Mercure Hotel Bahrain on 10th February.

Mercure staff

Mercure management and staff

Tamer Al Khuffa, Keem and Ahmed

Anvar, Karim and Majeed Fatma and Khalid

88 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Hanan and Galal

Quennie, April and Joyce

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Akcent at Bushido

Romanian boy band Akcent performed live at Bushido on 26th January. The band performed their own hits along with covers of recent songs and was attended by thousands.

Zack, Weena and Warren

Akcent live performance Gabi and Mary Hamad, Omar, Fauo, Zami, Makk and Fouad

Hassan, Ali Al Fardan, Basel and Jehan

Sahil and Zaara

Nantte, Hussain, Chelsea and Faisal Casey and Nader

Janette, Jehan and Yasser Alexa, Mohammed, Ahmed and Ezgi Yusuf, Haji, Nader and Adel

Taher and Mubarak

Cyril Mouawad

Diana Ionescu Ellie Anuj, Aparna and Ashish

Amir, Dareen, Ayman, Lara and Omar Basel March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 89

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Tenmou Announces Business Scheme Recipients

Tenmou held a press conference announcing the first recipients of its innovative business angels scheme, on 3rd January at the Capital Club.

Redha Habib, Mansoor Toorani, Mohammed Al Hammad, Sami Jalal, Hasan, Ahmed Hussain and Budoor Al Ansari

Thalassa Awareness at Sofitel

A special Thalassa Spa cocktail reception was held on 29th January at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Sea & Spa on the occasion of Thalassa Awareness Week.

Wafa, Deborah and Zeinab

Wafa and Zeinab

Wafa, Hassan and Mohammad

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel Celebrates Sri Lankan National Day

Sofitel Bahrain celebrated the Sri Lankan National Day on 4th February together with 45 highly qualified Sri Lankan ambassadors at Sofitel Bahrain Sea & Spa.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallak Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel Manager Fares Yactine (fifth from the left), Sofitel Director of Finance Anton Perera (fourth from the left) with Honorary Consul General for Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka PB Higgoda (third from the right) and Sri Lankan ambassadors

Honorary Consul General for Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka PB Higgoda with Sofitel management and staff

90 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Sofitel Bahrain celebrated the Sri Lankan National Day

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Behbehani Brothers Hold Inaugural Party

Behbehani Brothers held an official inaugural ceremony of their new Fiat and Alfa Romeo showroom in Sitra on 9th February.

Hussain Shirazi, Ali Zaid, Behbehani Brothers General Manager Peter Green, Mohammed Shirazi and Italian Ambassador to Bahrain HE Enrico Padula

Ribbon Cutting by Italian Ambassador to Bahrain HE Enrico Padula

Hussain Shirazi, Peter Green and Fatma and HEKhalid Enrico Padula

Mohammed Janahi and Ali Zaid

Patrick, Joan, Maqsood and Rajesh

Ali Al Zaid, Mohammed Janahi, Hussai Shirazi, Peter Green and Mohammed Shirazi

Informal Lunch at Capital Club

Capital Club Bahrain, the premier private business club, organised an informal lunch and tour for the media with Wafa Al Bushara, Community Relations Director and Ziad Kehdy, Membership Director on 8th February.

Capital Club Event Director Yvettr Bartos, Community Relation Director Wafa Al Bushra, Membership Director Ziad and guests

Greenisis Service Launch

A new telecommunication company Greenisis, was launched on 26th February at the Al Ghazal Ballroom of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, under the patronage of HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, President of the Information Affairs Authority.

George El Aily, HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Khalid Zubair and Shawqi Mahmood

George El Aily and Danielle Doporto

Abdulnabi Al Sho’ala, Khalid Zubair and Dr Adel Khalifa Al Zayani

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 91

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Euro Motors Launch the All-New BMW 3 Series

Euro Motors launched the bigger, sportier and more dynamic sixth generation BMW 3 Series car on 8th February at The Royal Golf Club.

Paul, Ayser and Alla

Leanne, Zayed Al Zayani and Paul Yates

Majed Al Zayani and Euro Motors General Manager Paul Yates

Jehan Mohamed, Majed Al Zayani and Nick Cooksey

Hamid Haqparwar and Zayed Al Zayani

Paul Yates, Zayed Al Zayani and Hamid Haqparwar

Japanese Ambassador Garden Party

The Japanese Ambassador hosted a garden party at his residence on 8th February in the presence of Japanese community members and Bahrain Japan Business and Friendship Society members.

Kishore Kewalram, Rehan Ahmed, Anoop Kewalram, Nabeel AbdulRahman Ajoor, Nasser Al Arayedh, Mubarak Jassim Kanoo, Hisato Tanaka Japanese Ambassador to Bahrain HE Shigeki Sumi and Karim Al Shaker

M. Nakamura, T Nagai, H Akiedam T Ota Y Terada

Reem Al Khalifa, Nabeel AbdulRahman Ajoor, Talal Al Mannai, Nasser Al Arayedh, Ibrahim Talib and Manal Kooheji

Tomoko and HE Shigeki Sumi

Yasser and Dilip

Tanaka, Kondo, Nassar Al Arayed and Miki Yoshihiko and Shuhel

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Yasmeen Rehan, Taki, Nabeel AbdulRahman Ajoor and Rehan Ahmed

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

YK Almoayyed & Sons Award Employee of The Month

YK Almoayyed & Sons held an ‘Employee of the Month’ award ceremony for the months of October to December 2011 on 9th February at the YKA Head Office. Chief Executive Alan J Guest awarded certificates of recognition employees.

YKA Chief Executive Alan J Guest (fourth from right) with the Employee of the Month awardees and officials during the award ceremony

Football Fun with DHL Express

DHL Express delivered an afternoon of football fun to its employees on 11th February, when they took over the Sherlock Holmes pub at the Gulf Hotel for the Manchester United vs. Liverpool Premier League clash to mark DHL’s continued support of Manchester United.

Over 30 DHL employees mingled with regular fans to cheer on Sir Alex Ferguson’s team.

DHL Express employees

First AWA General Meeting

The American Women’s Association (AWA) held their first general meeting for this year on 16th January at the Royal Golf Club in Riffa.

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 93

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Sail Arabia Press Conference

Oman Sail, in association with Bahrain Maritime Sports Association held a press conference on 30th January at Amwaj Marina and revealed the details about the second edition of the Sail Arabia Tour.

Shaikh Khalifa bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Omani Ambassador to Bahrain HE Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Sulaiman Al Amri with team

Omani Ambassador to Bahrain HE Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Sulaiman Al Amri with the team

Shaikh Khalifa bin Abdulla Al Khalifa

Patrick Becket, Nicholas Lunn, HSBC CEO Patrick Gallagher, Bryan Winning and Anwar Al Battashi

HE Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Sulaiman Al Amri, David Graham, HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Shaikh Khalifa bin Abdulla Al Khalifa with team members

Haitam, Yaqoob and Sayed

George, Kate and Larissa

Frank, Kevin and Lee

Shatha and Ala

EK Kanoo Unveils New Land Cruiser

Ebrahim K Kanoo held a press conference to announce the launch of the new 2012 Land Cruiser on 18th February, at the Toyota Showroom, with the presence of Land Cruiser Chief Engineer Sadayoshi Koyari.

The new 2012 Land Cruiser arrives in Bahrain

Sadayoshi Koyari and Tadashi Asazuma

94 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Michael Goode, Fuad Kanoo, Saud Kanoo and Matthew Nicklin

Ahmad, Aziz and EK Kanoo Executive General Manager of Sales Ismail Akbar

Ahmed, Brand Manager of Toyota and Lexus Ayman Shehadeh and Jan

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Capital Club Valentine’s Party

A special Valentine’s party was held at the exclusive Capital Club on 10th February. Specially invited guests were entertained by Muzzaik, DJ Odette and DJ Outlaw.

Let L ve Rule Akcent live performance

Marion and Claudia

DJ Odette and Omar

Nadia and Ebtissam

Lubna

Hamad, Omar, Fauo, Zami, Makk and Fouad

Carol, Kelsey, Shelby and Juni

Brandon and Natasha

Mike, Nadia, Sara and Rory

Nick and Francoise

Hassan, Jehan and Hamad DJ Outlaw and Ahmed

Anas and Tamara

Ahmed and Casey

Anu and Jesmeta

Janette, Jehan, Julia, Basel and Zaina

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 95

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Renault Gala Carnival

On behalf of YK Almoayyed & Sons, the Renault carnival was held on 6th February at the Renault showroom in Sitra. Renault Gala was celebrated with rock-bottom prices, free-benefits and fun activities.

Sethu, Sandeep Mathur and Rohit Kapur

Renault models during the show

Afshan and Asma

Sandeep Mathur and Narmeen

Renault models

American Mission Hospital Open Refurbished Clinic

American Mission Hospital (AMH) opened their refurbished pediatric clinic and launched their new coffee shop Belladona CafĂŠ on 6th February. The ribbon cutting ceremony was conducted by Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa.

AMH Chief Medical Officer/CEO George Cheriyan, Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa, Admiral Mark Fox, Vs Admiral Pamela, Julia, Cardlyn and Marketing & Development Manager of AMH Bahnaz Abbaz

The ribbon cutting by Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa

Shusko, Bill and James Myers

Groomes, Rene and Edith

Chris and Maile

Admiral Mark Fox with Bahrain School and MWR team members

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Pet Fanta and Rod Taylor

Kris and Anne Zayani

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Valentines at Bennigan’s and Cucina Italiana

A special Valentines promotion was held for its patrons by Bennigan’s and Cucina Italiana restaurant in Al Safir Hotel on 14th February.

Adam and Sandra

Emily and Jake

Roger and Trish

Mohammed and Rita

Ashley and Kate

Lin and Omar

Filmark and Giselle

Shark and Mariko

Karen and Steve

Chris and Priscilla

Well and Chiery

Francesca and Naila

Celio Summer Collection Launch

The Celio Summer collection launch was held on 19th February at Celio in Bahrain City Centre where media were in attendance for the Spring/Summer launch.

Ali, City Centre Marketing Manager Lori Cunningham and City Centre General Manager Ray Scott

Romar, Ali, Grasom, Romeo and Dennis

Zohoor Alreef Launches New Fragrance

Zohoor Alreef launched Aladina, a new fragrance for women on 23rd February at Bahrain City Centre. Aladina is the first among a series of new perfumes to be launched this year.

Phil Darby, Marketing Director, shown with the fragrances

Zohoor Al Reef store

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 97

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Kia Rio 2012 Model Launch

A.A. Bin Hindi and Kia Motors launched the all-new Kia Rio 2012 Model on 18th February at the Kia Showroom.

John, Mo’men Shawqi Ahmed, Mohammed Bin Hindi and Ahmed Bin Hindi

John, Kumar, Sanjeevm, Majed and Sayed

A.A Bin Hindi Annual Staff Party and Awards

The Annual Staff Party for A. A. Bin Hindi Group Staff was held on 10th February at Samarkand Palace Camp, Sakhir. The Chairman, President and CEO, three Vice Presidents and CO along with all division managers were present at the party. The staff attended with their families and took part in competitions and raffles.

Aziz Bin Hindi, Ahmed Bin Hindi, Abdulla Bin Hindi, Najim and Abdulla

Ahmed, Leen, Soha, Suhaila, Fathi, Sayed, Mo’men Shawqi Ahmed, Ahmed Bin Hindi and Abdulla

Safer Internet Day 2012

The International Safer Internet Day was an international event observed by more than 70 countries around the world and was held on 7th February. The first meeting of the National Co-ordination Committee for this event was held with the participation of Zain Bahrain, Microsoft, Ministry of Education represented by the King Hamad Schools of the Future Project, Social Media Club Bahrain, Taawon IT Consultants and InSafe.

International Safer Internet Day speakers, committee and guests

AJM Kooheji Donates to AMH Community Outreach Fund

In support of the AMH’s Community Outreach program, a BD1,000 donation was presented to AMH Chief Medical Officer and CEO Dr George Cheriyan

by Mahmood Kooheji, Vice Chaiman of AJM Kooheji Group. The funds will be used to treat children from the NBB Centre for Disabled Children in coordination with the Ministry of Human Rights and Social Development.

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Kaizad Sanjana, Bahnaz Abbas, Dr George Cheriyan, Mahmood Kooheji, Yousif Haider and K. Himavan

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Ford Quick Lane Opening Ceremony

YK Almoayyed held the grand opening ceremony of Ford Quick Lane center with Almoayyed Motors at Arad on 20th February.

YK Almoayyed company officials were present at the event.

Basel, Karthik, Sethu, Ashfaque, Ahmed, Sandeep, Mahmood and Nick

Basel, Sandeep and Nick

Kareem, Mohammed and Sreedhar

Declan McCluskey, Ashfaque and Karthik

Nissan Sunny Launch 2012

The YK Almoayyed group launched the all-new Nissan Sunny on 23rd February at Bahrain City Centre.

Amal, Rohit Kapur, Peter, Mona Yousif Almoayyed, Declan McCluskey, Sandeep Mathur, Husain, Karthik and Aqsa

Ali, Peter, Salah and Husain

Declan McCluskey and Bernard

Nick and Sandeep Mathur

Rohit Kapur, Karthik and Sethu

Mona Almoayyed

Anwar and Ali

Renault Test Drive

A Renault Test Drive event took place at the Oasis Lounge at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) on 12th February. The Renault models put to test on the tracks were the Megane Hatchback, Fluence and Safrane.

Aya and Mary Grace Hassan

Rohit Kapur and Basel

Sager Al Khalifa

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 99

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

WISE Desert Camping Trip

WISE Young Generation Centre held a Desert Camping Trip for students on 11th February at the Sakhir area. The students also attended with their mothers for a fun and interactive session.

WISE Young Generation Centre desert camping

Fun and games

Fun Day for Sanabel Orphans at Magic Island

As part of Seef Mall’s Corporate Social Responsibility Programme, Magic Island played host to a day of fun and games for children from Sanabel Orphans Care Society on 15th February at Seef Mall. Over 60 youngsters from the Sanabel Orphans Care Society were entertained where they played a variety of games and enjoyed various rides.

Kiddie lunch at the Seef Mall food court

Eman Abdulkareem Alhamadi, Head of the Female Division at Sanabel Orphans Care Society presented a memento of appreciation to Zakareya Buallay, Secretary to the Board of Directors at Seef Properties

Special gift bags given by Operations Assistant at Magic Island Hisham Al Haddad

Day of fun and games for children from Sanabel Orphans Care Society

Golden Tulip Cocktail Reception

The Golden Tulip Hotel hosted a Cocktail Reception for all ‘Keep Fit’ members of the Health Club at the Gilgamesh ballroom on 12th February.

Golden Tulip General Manager Michel Mandrea with the Keep Fit members

100 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Mohammed, Ahmed, Mazin and Adel

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Hobday Wins Euro Motors BMW Medal

Former Captain Lane Leads Team to Victory

Barry Hobday squeezed past fellow member Jason Smith to clinch top place in division one of the Euro Motors BMW Monthly Medal at the Royal Golf Club on 15th February with a net score of 74. Smith was just one shot adrift with a net 75 in what were testing conditions on the Club’s 18hole Montgomerie championship course.

The Royal Golf Club’s 2011 Lady Captain Debbie Lane led her team to victory on the annual ‘Ladies Excuse Me’ Texas Scramble tournament on 29th January at the Royal Golf Club.

Debbie Lane

PGA Pro Wins Monday Madness

John Howells and Rob Kennedy won GBI Express Monday Madness on 31st January at Royal Golf Club.

Barry Hobday

Retail Complex at Riffa Views in Full Swing The groundbreaking for the property development’s retail centre, Riffa Palms, was held on 15th February by the management of Riffa Views and Riffa Views International School Students.

John Howells and his playing partner Rob Kennedy

Students and management

Organics Presentation at Royal Golf Club

A special presentation about organic food was held at the Royal Golf Club Majlis on 28th January with ‘Organics Guru’ Nils El Accad. The complimentary event was open to Riffa Views residents and their guests, Royal Golf Club members and Royal Country Club members.

Organic Foods & Café Founder and CEO Nils El Accad

Sheila, Ali Al Khalifa and Habiba

Amy and Ella

Ali Al Khalifa, Nils El Accad, Wafa and Joseph Henriques

Husain

Riffa Views residents, Royal Golf Club members, Royal Country Club members and guests

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 101

Business

Business In Brief

YKA Group Manager for HR and TQM Sonu Duggal, AMH Marketing & Development Manager Bahnaz Abbaz, AMH Chief Medical Officer/CEO Dr George Cheriyan with YKA Managing Director Mona Almoayyed and other officials

YKA Sponsors AMH’s Colon Cancer Awareness YK Almoayyed & Sons is proud to sponsor the American Mission Hospital’s spread Colon Cancer Awareness on 30th January, in support of detecting and preventing colon cancer at an early stage. At the ceremony, Mona Almoayyed, YKA Managing Director, appreciated the efforts of AMH and wished them all the best in raising the awareness for a better and healthy society.

New Marketing Manager at Sheraton Hotel

Suntrust Launches Parkview in Manila Suntrust Parkview is located along Concepcion Street in Ermita, Manila. It is a secure, gated community made up of six towers with names that evoke genteel times and the sturdiness of our tradition: Acacia, Dahlia, Eugenia, Lily, Molave and Narra.

Suntrust Parkview offers 1,612 residential units composed of executive studio plus one, two and three-bedroom flats.

Whether you are a young professional, part of a couple or a starting family, you’re sure to find the perfect unit. Residents are only a short commute away from distinguished universities such as Colegio de San Juan de Letran, University of the East, Adamson University, Lyceum of the Philippines, Philippine Normal University and San Beda College. This is ideal for students, professors, and staff members or administrators who choose to make Suntrust Parkview their home.

For more information on the residential units at Suntrust Parkview – call Kristine: +973 3669 7433 or Nestor: +973 3619 1221 or email: global@megaworldcorp.com or visit www.megaworldinternational.com

102 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Marketing Communications Manager Cristalyn Pastrana

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel has appointed Cristalyn Pastrana as Marketing Communications Manager. Prior to this appointment Pastrana held a similar position at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain and at The K Hotel. Her knowledge and experience in the fields of communications, branding, e-commerce and public relations in Jordan, Kuwait and Bahrain will make a significant contribution to Sheraton Bahrain Hotel.

Be The Star With Pepsi This year, Pepsi will be the sponsors of the Arabic version of the World’s most popular music TV program, ‘Arab Idol’, which is currently the highest viewed music program in the region that aims to provide stardom opportunities to young talents. Pepsi will capitalise on this massive success by setting up an innovative and attractive engaging video booth at Bahrain City Centre to enable people to unleash their star talents and express themselves. The booth is equipped with a built-in camera, LCD screen and a microphone. Visitors will be asked to capture their videos where they can perform, act, sing or dance. The recorded video will be sent to the user’s private email as well as being uploaded to his/her Facebook wall profile. Out of all the recorded videos, viewers will be able to cast their vote for their favourite.

Business Ned Capeleris, New Ritz-Carlton Hotel Manager Ned Capeleris has been appointed as new hotel manager at the RitzCarlton Hotel & Spa on 2nd February as announced

by General Manager Mark Neukomm. In his new capacity, Capeleris will be responsible for all matters pertaining to hotel operations and will act in conjunction with the guidance team as a key support member for the luxury resort. Before his move to Bahrain, Ned Hotel Manager Ned Capeleris Capeleris was holding the position as Executive Assistant Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha where he played an instrumental role in ensuring the implementation of the rooms division basics and its standard operating procedures to further improve service standards and to enhance the guest experience.

Gulf Air Technical Capabilities Highlighted at International Forum Gulf Air’s MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) capabilities were highlighted at the MRO Middle East Conference and Exhibition held in Dubai on 7th February. Gulf Air was invited to deliver the key note address at this important forum, where Jamal Hashim, Gulf Air Director Engineering, gave the opening speech. Hashim highlighted the national carrier’s 61 years’ vast experience as an airline operator and an MRO service provider, the Middle East region’s growing importance as the potential hub for global MRO industry due to its several strategic and commercial advantages, and the opportunities and challenges in the aviation MRO industry. He also called for greater synergy and cooperation among the region’s airlines to take advantage of the booming MRO opportunities. The MRO Middle East Conference and Exhibition, one of the largest and most important events in the region, brought together a number of airlines, MROs, manufacturers, vendors, suppliers, service providers, etc., under one roof.

Excellency Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al-Khalifa, Chairman BDB

Pet Arabia Receives Bahrain Development Bank Award Pet Arabia, received the Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) Award for Outstanding Performance in 2011 on 29th December 2011 at Diplomat Hotel under the patronage of His Excellency Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al-Khalifa, Chairman, BDB. Other leading Bahraini entrepreneurs were awarded in the ceremony held at the Diplomat Hotel on Thursday, 29th December 2011 in recognition of their significant business expansion during that challenging year.

Quick Lane Tire and Auto Centre

Quick Lane Opens for Service in Bahrain

H+K Strategies Bahrain family with Gulf Regional Director Alec Peck, Sakthi Rengasamy and Deputy General Manager Julia Atherton-Dandy

Hill+Knowlton Strategies Celebrates Longest Serving Employee in the Middle East Hill+Knowlton Strategies, the communications agency, celebrated the 25-year career of Sakthi Rengasamy, Operations Manager, who with this milestone becomes the longest serving employee in its Middle East network on 6th February. He joined the agency on 31st January, 1987, Rengasamy is a true veteran of the PR Industry, with years of experience heading the consultancy’s regional media monitoring department, which gave him unique and in-depth insights into many clients’ businesses and industries. Today, he manages the Bahrain office’s day-to-day operations and administrative tasks.

Ford Middle East and Almoayyed Motors have opened the new Quick Lane Tire and Auto Centre located at Arad, bringing a new dimension of quick and reliable service to the Kingdom’s motorists owning varied brands of vehicles. This multi brand service facility in Bahrain is the third branch in the GCC, and the company plans to expand the reach of its quick service brand with another fifteen this year. Quick Lane offers routine vehicle maintenance such as oil and filter changes, and light repair services such as brake repairs and tire replacements. Backed by Ford Motor Company, Quick Lane also provides a Vehicle Check-Up Report which evaluates the health of a vehicle’s key maintenance and light repairs, and uses genuine Motorcraft, Ford Parts and lubricants. Apart from Vehicle CheckUp Report, Quick Lane services also include: tires, oil change and essential maintenance, brake service, batteries, air-conditioning system, belts and hoses, wiper blades, lamps and bulbs, alternators and electrical work, alignments, suspension and steering and, cooling system maintenance.

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 103

Car

Eight Speed Supercar

The all-new BMW 3 series arrives at Euro Motors.

T

he new sixth generation BMW 3 Series has been launched by Euro Motors at an event in the Royal Golf Club.

The BMW 3 Series continues to be the group’s best-selling model series and accounts for more than a quarter of the company’s global sales. In 2010, every third BMW sold was a 3 Series.

Euro Motors General Manager Paul Yates explained at the launch that the new car is bigger, sportier and more dynamic, available with three different lines; modern, sport and luxury. Within each line, customers can choose a number of exclusive finishes to suit their taste.

The new design elements include a new BMW face with flat headlights and an increase in length, width and wheelbase compared to the predecessor model, giving the car a more elegant and athletic silhouette.

Inside, there is an increase in space which mainly benefits the rear passengers and the cockpit in the front wraps around the driver and ensures that all important

104 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

functions are within easy reach.

The new 3 series also features a choice of two powerful engines, 335i 6-cylinder and 328i 4-cylinder with eightspeed automatic gearbox and TwinPower Turbo technology, the first carmaker to offer an eight-speed automatic gearbox in the premium mid-size segment. The BMW also offers more ‘EfficientDynamics’ technology that make it more economical and lower in pollutant emissions compared to the predecessor model.

This technology also includes a ‘Driving Experience Control’ switch with four driving programmes, sporty, ultra sporty, comfortable and extremely economical driving. The ECO PRO mode also helps drivers to maximise fuel economy through their driving style, enabling them to increase the distance travelled on each tank of fuel.

The BMW ConnectedDrive features the latest-generation full-

colour Head-Up Display, which projects key information in 3D onto the windscreen in direct view of the driver. Also available is surround view with side and top view, giving a bird’s-eye perspective of the vehicle and the area around it The all new BMW 3 Series is available for sale at the Euro Motors showroom Tel. +973 177 507 50 for more information.

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Cars

A Sunny Outlook

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he Sunny’s exterior design has a new wide shoulder width and a smooth silhouette and features Nissan’s new signature sedan grille design and headlights. The front end blends smoothly into the cabin and features design elements such as the new shape of the trunk-lid giving the new Sunny excellent aerodynamics.

The designers of the new Sunny sought to combine fivepassenger practicality with a good degree of comfort and refinement and has more rear legroom than many mid-size sedans. The interior is further enhanced with a range of innovative features including Bluetooth(R) handsfree phone capability with steering wheel control, rear comfort fan and integrated LED turn signals in the door mirror and

106 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Nissan have launched the allnew Sunny, the revised tenth generation of its highest volume selling model in the GCC region.

rear parking sensors.

A new indented line in the middle of the sweeping roofline is not just a design feature, but a functional innovation that helps reduce the amplitude of the roof panel vibrations in order to create a quieter cabin interior without the use of

and width as the previous generation Sunny, the new model is lower in height.

The biggest dimensional gain is the visible gain in trunk length, provided by a more compact engine/transmission design that allows for a 69mm increase in rear overhang.

The all-new Sunny delivers ease in handling for city driving where there’s frequent acceleration and deceleration, and gives superior environmental performance as a projected class leader in fuel economy.

The all-new Sunny is available with automatic and five-speed manual transmission

“The all-new Sunny delivers ease in handling for city driving where there’s frequent acceleration and deceleration.” reinforcement devices. One of the biggest challenges in designing a compact sedan is where to put everything. For the Sunny Sedan, Nissan reduced the size of the engine and transmission, reducing the number of component parts and reducing the overall platform weight.

While retaining the same wheelbase

Tel. +973 1773 2732 or visit the Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons Nissan Showroom in Sitra.

Cars

A Riveting Ride

F

or several years now I have been thinking of shifting to a bigger and bolder car, so the thought of owning an SUV has always been in the back of my mind. I started with test driving my friends’ cars and every time I borrowed it, it was far from my ideal expectations of an SUV. For me it wasn’t about the height of the car or the comfort of the drive. I’ve always had a childhood imagination that an SUV has to be off-road like a monster, it has to have a door that you can slam and a hood that you can jump on. I wanted a car I wouldn’t worry about taking to the desert, yet at the same time could still enjoy driving around the city. I realised I needed to try the new Jeep Wrangler.

Before even heading to the Behbehani Brothers show room,

A member of the Arabian Magazines Team, Basel Qabouq decided to test drive the new Jeep Wrangler Sport and loved every minute of the experience …

the description of this SUV sounded exactly like the car I was looking for. A front-engine, four-wheel drive that is also a convertible with two doors and comes with a hard or soft top. All of my

yet powerful sound of a true V6 which really makes you feel like you own the road! Before I got into the car I arrived with the mindset that I would need to reduce my expectations on the comfort side and being a sedan owner I didn’t expect much, yet the Jeep manufacturers surprised me and exceeded my expectations yet again.

The Jeep was even more advanced than many SUVs with no off-road capabilities, and it wasn’t until I put the top down that I drove the Wrangler like it deserved to be driven.

A convertible SUV that can also handle well off-road and impress my wife at the same time? I was immediately sold and the decision was made, I had no doubts that this was to be my next car

“The Jeep was even more advanced than many SUVs with no off-road capabilities, and it wasn’t until I put the top down that I drove the Wrangler like it deserved to be driven. ” childhood imaginations came flooding back when looking at the description of the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Sport and I realised this was the car for me.

With a V6 3.6L engine,285-hp and a very smooth five-speed automatic this car can really go fast, maintaining a smooth

Tel. +973 1745 9955 or visit the Behbehani Brothers Showroom in Sitra.

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 107

Pet

Home!

Looking For A

At Bahrain Confidential we try our best to reunite lost animals with their families or find new homes for abandoned pets.

Chili

Rags

Sage

Pups

Twinkle

Fifi

Parsley

Marco

Pylos

BSPCA Animals

Charles Alaska

Nelly

Interested in adopting?

Visit the BSPCA in Saar, near St Christopher’s School or see www.bspca.org for directions. Open for adoption viewing Mondays to Thursdays, 9am to 5pm and Fridays to Saturdays, 9am to 1pm. Tel. +973 1759 1231.

Chuthy

Foxy

Photo

Brother

Magoo

Interested in adopting?

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

Tony the Dogfather Sox

Birmingham

Tommy Casper

Curly

Do you have animal concerns? Need a vet? Call Dr Nonie Coutts Tel. +973 1724 5515.

108 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Appeal Pet

PLEASE Dogfather HELP! The new rescue centre in progress

Can Help?

TonyYou The

Adorable Twix, a two-year-old Jack Russell desperately needs a good home for life. He’s currently being looked after by the staff at Nonie Coutts veterinary surgery where he has been receiving and responded very well to treatment for a metal doors, wood, cement, sand, ony Waters aka ‘Tony the bladder condition. On learning about his illness – his previous owners wanted to have him put down. The staff at Nonie roofing, tiles, porta-cabins.

Dogfather’ has run a rescue Coutts refused and have taken responsibility of him since and Labour: masons, carpenters, and rehabilitation centre covered the cost of his treatment. He will be ready to go to labourers, electricians, plumbers. in Bahrain for the last ten a good home around mid-October. He is extremely friendly, Transport: to move existing years. Now with over 200 reusable materials andgets newon very well with cats, dogs, children etc. Anyone who rescued animals it was time has ever had a Jack Russell will tell you they are a brilliant building materials. to relocate as his current location has incredibly Temporary storage and space: for intelligent little dog with huge personalities and been sold which obviously put him in a this little chap is no different. If you can help please call the There’s a point in all our lives when we could do with a break and get the furniture from the furniture shop. very difficult and distressing situation.

Nonie Coutts Veterinary Clinic on Tel. +973 1724 5515 a secondThankfully chance, unfortunately some Tony has found a people new do not even believe an animal is entitled to a first chance. Thankfully there are people out and you’ll find a best friend.

When asked how he felt, Tony himself the animals in team Saar,at the BSPCA who therehome such for as Tony theand Dogfather and the said, “I do who re-home to the right families hopefully begin building work thinkand differently andwill have dedicated their lives to helping animals haveon been cruelly dumped, neglected or justIt never even a familythe animals have been buthad only the kennels from theRescue 1st May. Tony theAC Dogfather’s Animal pictures andafter ornaments, etc. and for someone to set up a to love them or a that regular meal.

Sohave if you loveitems, animals –rehabilitated. you can help The long now means his needs changed Centre launched an appeal totwice before is openyou from 10am 12pm on term residents, sponsorship program and even to give themhas a better life. Please think throw outtoyour old, damaged or special needs slightly.

Obviously the goods. food and moneyMondays, find anyone with a few hours toProviding Wednesdays and just spend a few hours at old clothes and household they are in good condition animals stayshop for the donations are stilllike very and spare work –who what may no longer toFridays. you could be another would to important helphold out value atto him The furniture sellsrest of their thelives Centre socialising and person’s treasure.

There are twoChance, fundraising outletshousehold toall support Tony including the shops, Second larger items in air-conditioned kennels.”helping with the many andcharity very gratefully received but now Tony the Dogfather’s animal kind rescue Chance Shop and as soonaas possible.

Volunteers home and office furniture animals there. needs different of centre. help asThe well:Second sellsare used clothes, bookswith and sorting small household items/bric electrical a brac. items and needed to assist accessories, All proceeds Anyone who can help should contact The Second Chance shop (upstairs, inside Tibra’s) is open Mondays, and pricing donations and/or pictures, etc.

It on is open on Fridays Tony Tel.on +973 3962 9889will go to Tony the Sponsors to rebuild the kennels: Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 12noon.Tibra’s is located running the shops, and Saturdays from Dogfather’s Animal Budaiya incompany theboth blockon ofBudaiya shops the petrol between orstation, email at10am to 12pm.

Any Highway building who givesafter help Highway nearNonie Saar during the The Animal Rescue Centre Rescue Centre.

Skate Shack and Coutts Vet clinic, before Bookcase. tony.dogfather@gmail.com or will have their company normal opening hours. Thename Tibra advertised also needs volunteers to help at visit www.dogfatherbahrain.com on the newly built kennel block and in NB: shop Volunteer to work Wednesday book mornings. whichneeded sells clothes, sales, fairs, school fetes, etc.; Tony feeding the media. shoes, accessories, perfumes, as well as help with fundraising, To volunteer, an abandoned Donations always needed for both the above and the household Thank you in anticipation.

Building materials: breeze blocks, toys, books, small household handling publicity and advertising, Tel. +973 3994 4290. baby goat furniture sale shop - collection can be arranged, if necessary; Image not Twix contact Linda on Tel. +973 3971 4080.

T

Second Chance

Appeal

Volunteers are required to help out at the two shops to benefit the Animal Rescue Centre …

May 2011 October 2011 ||| Bahrain Bahrain Confidential Confidential||| 113 111 March 2012 Bahrain Confidential 109

Gastro

Gourmet Festival

Experience a world of exquisite flavours at MODA Mall from 1st to 24th March.

T

he MODA Mall complex provides the very best of shopping and the very finest in cuisine where you can savour the taste of Japanese sashimi, Lebanese mezze and Italian Risotto, all under one roof.

Aburi Shake Unagi Sushi

BiCE Ristorante Authentic Italian cuisine with impeccable flair that gives a true flavour of Italy.

Offers: • 10 per cent discount upon presentation of MODA Mall Gourmet Festival Discount Card • Business Lunch set menu for BD15 (allinclusive) featuring three courses and a new menu every week.

Tel. +973 1753 3666.

MAKI Delectable sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki and teriyaki whilst also offering unique signature dishes.

Offers: • Lunch Bento Boxes at BD5, BD8, BD11 and BD13 • New dishes introduced every Wednesday • Themed dinner at BD35 per person on 10th March Tel. +973 1752 2733.

• Group lunch and dinner; special set menu on demand • Open buffet every Friday with Saj and Shawarma live cooking.

Tel. +973 1713 1111.

Abd el Wahab Authentic Lebanese food. Take your pick from a mouthwatering menu of mezze, grills and kebabs.

Offers: • 25 per cent discount upon presentation of MODA Mall Gourmet Festival Discount Card • Cold food preparation and sampling at live cooking stations Golestan Restaurant

Abd el Wahab

Golestan Celebrating the spirit of true Persian cuisine.

Menu features mouthwatering and delicately flavoured Iranian specialties and fresh ovenbaked breads.

Offers: • 20 per cent discount on food and drinks upon presentation of MODA Mall Gourmet Festival Discount Card • Food sampling at live cooking stations Tel. +973 1752 4579.

Soie Features food from all over China and offers a true Chinese getaway with a dramatic silk canopy and dark wooden floors.

Offers: • 20 per cent discount on food and drinks upon presentation of MODA Mall Gourmet Festival Discount Card • Food sampling at live cooking stations Tel. +973 1753 3533.

Illycafé Offers only the finest coffee nature can provide with a unique blend of high quality coffee made from nine types of pure Arabica beans.

Offers: • A 20 per cent discount on food and drinks upon presentation of MODA Mall Gourmet Month Discount Card • Coffee sampling at live stations Tel. +973 1753 3533.

Lina’s Café Wide selection of distinctive light meals with a menu featuring a variety of mouthwatering sandwiches.

Offers: • Set menu at BD5 • New sandwich on the menu every Sunday Tel. +973 1753 2538.

Patisserie Valerie Offers truly irresistible handmade cakes and patisserie.

Offers: • Daily Specials • Set lunch menu at BD5.2 (updated every week) • Afternoon tea at BD4.8, from 4pm onwards Tel. +973 1751 0182.

Every BD20 spent at MAKI, BiCE Ristorante, Abd el Wahab, Golestan or Soie during the Gourmet Festival earns you entry into a draw for the chance to win a set of luxury watches.

For every BD5 spent at Illycafé, Lina’s, Patisserie Valerie, Costa Coffee and Caribou Coffee, you could win a MODA Mall Voucher valued at BD100.

Gourmet Month started last 29th February and is on until 24th March.

110 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Dining Out Mo Kan Restaurant

Klouds Restaurant

The all-day dining restaurant with irresistible culinary offerings including Teppanyaki, steaks and an Indian bread station. It’s Steak Night every night too as well as the regular Theme Nights:

Skewers Night - Every Wednesday from 7-11pm; Serving only US prime Angus meat get succulent steaks and grills served on giant skewers! Only BD12++ Seafood Night - Every Thursday - a live seafood station displays the freshest catch of the day. Only BD12++

Mo Kan Restaurant

The K Hotel

An elegant Asian style restraurant that offers guests a wide variety of Asian cuisine.

Friday Dimsum and Sushi Treat - 50% on fresh handmade dimsum and free Japanese tea; 50% off on sushi!

Gastro Calendar

Klouds Restaurant

The InterContinental Regency Bahrain

Medzo Italian Restaurant - Sundays to Fridays. Every Wednesday, delight your palate with an unlimited authentic Italian antipasti buffet together with your choice of fresh pasta.

BD12++.

Selections Restaurant

International cuisine daily from 6.30am to 11.30pm, BD8++ for soup, salads, appetisers and desserts; BD12++ for full lunch buffet, international.

Legendz Steakhouse

Impressive array of premium cuts, grills and signature dishes. Every Tuesday evening, enjoy Legendary degustation - a five course menu together with a specially chosen wine for BD21++; and BD28++ for free flow of selected wines.

Tel. +973 1722 7777.

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

Mondays - Seafood Night - 7pm to 11pm Silk’s Restaurant - BD16.9++ - sushi, prawns, lobster, oysters - seafood buffet; BD22++ including selected beverages.

Wednesdays - A Taste of Italy Night - 7pm to 11pm, Silk’s Restaurant - BD12.5++ - fresh pasta and aromatic pizza baked in the oven; BD18.2++ including selected beverages.

Thursdays - Steak Night - 7pm to 11pm Silk’s Restaurant - BD18.2++ - prime US Angus steaks, salads including selected beverages Friday Brunch - 12.30nn to 4pm All of the hotel outlets - BD23.2++ Sundays - 7pm to 11pm BBQ Under the Stars - Pool side terrace BD18.2++ per plate

The latest and tastiest places to go!

The Bahrain Confidential gastro guide reveals the best places to eat every month.

BBQ grill, Angus steaks, Churrasco and more.

Flavoured shisha served.

Silks Restaurant - Swiss Fondues - 7pm onwards - Tuesdays, Fridays to Sundays sample various delights of classic Swiss Cheese Fondue, Gruyere and Vacherin cheese melted in white wine. Tel. +973 1746 0000.

Sofitel

So Brunch at Saraya, Wok and Fiamma 12.30nn to 4pm; Fridays International Buffet Selection and Live stations BD26 net inclusive of softdrinks, chilled juices, free flow of sparkling wine, red & white wine, beers and a cocktail of the day; kids below 1m height are free of charge; starting from BD11

Saraya - All Day Dining; All Week

Breakfast buffet, International buffet for lunch and dinner; a la darte throughout the day Breakfast Buffet - BD11++, Lunch Buffet BD12.5++ (BD15 net), Dinner Buffet:

BD12.5++ (BD15 net)

Fiamma - Italian Restaurant - Lunch and Dinner Monday to Saturday; Closed on Sunday Regional Italian Cuisines with a wide selection of Wines Pashawat - Arabic Restaurant - Opening Soon Authentic Arabic Cuisine, a la carte; live entertainment: Moroccan Duo and Belly Dancer WOK - Asian Restaurant - Dinner - 7pm to 11pm Wednesday - Monday (Closed on Tuesday) Authentic Southeast Asian Cuisine; a la Carte La Mer - Seafood Restaurant - Dinner Daily - a la carte; large international wine selection Tapas Bar - Lunch and Dinner Tapas and cocktails; a la carte - 11.30nn to 1am Lagoon - Pool Bar - Lunch and Dinner Daily - light snacks; a la carte

Lobby Lounge and

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

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 111

Dining Out MACARON Pastry Shop Lobby Lounge: 8am to 12midnight; MACARON: 8am to 8pm, French pastries, baked Viennoiseries and macarons, Tel. +973 1763 6363.

Crowne Plaza Hotel

Crab Festival at Waves Seafood Restaurant BD2.950++

PAUL Mother’s Day Cake For Mother’s Day PAUL Bakery and Restaurant will be offering a Mousse aux framboises: An exquisitely decorated raspberry mousse with layers of vanilla sponge, crumble and raspberries, finished off with a thin clear glaze.

Advance orders can be personalised.

Available from 18th to 22nd March. Tel. +973 1717 2321 or 1758 0073.

Seafood Lovers Platter at Waves BD9.950++ per platter Every Wednesday evenings, BD15.95++

Seafood Night in La Mosaique

Bushido’s Promotion Lunches Light Bento Box - BD9 (net price - all inclusive).

Rolls and Sushi - BD8 (net price – all inclusive).

Teppanyaki - BD10 (net price- all inclusive).

Tel. +973 1758 3555.

BD18++ per person (with selected juices and soft drinks). BD28++ per person (with selected beverages). Complimentary access to outdoor infinity pool area for all brunchers!

Tel. +973 1717 1000.

The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa Mother’s Day Specials on 21st March La Med Buffet - 7pm to 11pm - BD22++ per

Elite Group

Every Thursday, BD16++ On offer at the hotel’s 3 restaurants. BD17.95++ per person with unlimited beverages and BD14.95++ with soft drinks only. Discounts for children available.

Tel. +973 1753 1122.

Friday Family Brunch at Saveur Restaurant - 12nn to 4pm.

person. Moms will receive a special surprise gift on that evening.

Nirvana - 7pm to 11pm - 4-course menu BD22++ per person Tel. +973 1758 6499.

Steak Night in La Mosaique

Absolutly Fabulous Brunch on Fridays

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre

La Brasserie, Elite Resort and Spa St Patrick’s Day Party - Smokes & Grills -

Royal Golf Club

Prego - On until 30th April, dine and get a chance to win 2 flights to Rome. 11.30am to midnight daily; a la carte menu.

Links Lounge & Restaurant Friday Carvery Feast - Special buffet table for kids. Crèche available for younger children BD3 per child per hour. Midday to 4pm. Visitors BD16 net, Club Members BD14 net. Kids under 12 - BD8.5 with selected soft drinks.

Links Business Lunch - 2 - course lunch and selected soft drink - BD8 per person; 11.30am to 3pm

Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win

BD12 net, 7pm till midnight; Friday Brunch - BD9 net, BD4.9 net for kids 12.30pm to 3.30pm. www.elitegroup4u.com

Sheraton Bahrain March for Tortilla at An

Nada Lounge Great selection of Mexican tortilla - from BD3.9++

Sizzling Offers at Soie Chinese Restaurant - from BD5.2++ Tel. +973 1753 3533.

Want burgers th

at are soft, malt shakes made of real ice cream and everything hnny in between? Jo t o n o d Rockets oint disapp as they give you all these and more.

Not Just Your Regular Burger Chain

Winner Deeann Mascarenhas

Mövenpick is giving away dinner vouchers good for two (2) persons to two (2) lucky readers this month. All you need to do is answer the question: When and where can you enjoy the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain’s ‘BBQ Under The Stars’ promotion?

Send us your replies to:

competition@ArabianMagazines.com with your name, nationality, mobile number and your favourite sections in the magazine.

Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win

Winner Muna Mohammad ... other winner Glenn Cruz Guinto For the past few years, Johnny Rockets have been providing diners with juicy hamburgers, classic sandwiches, wholesome breakfasts, refreshing salads, and hand-dipped shakes and malts at the Al A’ali Mall in Seef District. Now you have the option of experiencing all these in the Lagoon at Amwaj Islands too! You can even order it straight to your own home as their home delivery service launched as well.

If you want to see your event listed email: bc.editorial@ArabianMagazines.com 112 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Last month, Johnny Rockets gave away Valentine dinner vouchers to lucky readers. They were treated to a truly divine dinner and the ladies received a complimentary rose for Valentine’s Day. For delivery and more information, Tel. +973 1756 6565 (Al A’ali Complex); +973 1601 1199 (Lagoon, Amwaj Islands).

Gastro

The Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain has relaunched their most exciting offering to date - the dreamy ‘BBQ Under The Stars’ promotion, set to awe food lovers every Sunday from 4th March.

BBQ Under The Stars

With new Executive Chef Alfred Zuberbuehler at the reins of this fabulous five-star hotel’s gastronomic offerings, the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain will give you a taste of ‘BBQ Under the Stars’ as they add new offerings to their already mouthwatering selections: Tapas and freshly prepared paella are two new exciting additions to the tastes of Churrasco (Brazilian way of cooking steak

where the meat is freshly sliced from a skewer onto your plate); an Arabic station for sheesh tawook and other favourites, a Seafood station for the freshest catch of the day; a corner where you can choose tender steaks, juicy sausages, yummy burgers and sliders and there’s also a newly installed station for pork lovers. A salad and ice cream station top off these sumptuous culinary delights.

A Passionate Profession

What made you decide to become a professional chef?

Ever since I was young, I enjoyed being in the kitchen helping my mother and it became clear that this would be the right profession for me. I trained in a leading restaurant in north-eastern Switzerland in the late 1980’s and was lucky enough to spend a large amount of time with professional chefs teaching me every day.

What does it mean to be a chef?

To be a chef, you have to have passion, it is a job that you must love and is very energy consuming but you get a lot in return. We get to create new things all the time so it never gets boring and is always challenging and exciting.

What misconceptions do people have about chefs and chef jobs?

That we are shouting all the time!

Some people think that kitchens

Be entertained by the ‘Friends’ band and head to the Pool Lounge to have all these and more for the regular price of BD18.2++ with unlimited selected drinks.

BBQ Under the Stars is on every Sunday from 7pm to 11pm. For reservations and enquiries, Tel. +973 1746 0000 or follow them on Facebook: Mövenpick hotel Bahrain.

Growing up on a Swiss farm in a region blessed with culinary traditions, Mövenpick’s new Executive Chef Alfred Zuberbuehler tells Bahrain Confidential that he has been surrounded by cooking from a very young age.

are filled with angry people using strong language but this is not the case.

Are your friends and family reluctant to cook for you because they feel inferior?

Almost every meal cooked by friends will start with: ’You have to understand, I’m not a professional chef like you!’ People who know me well understand that I’m not picky at all and that I enjoy simple home-cooked food.

Executive Chef Alfred Zuberbuehler

What is your best cooking tip for a novice?

Cook slowly. Every sauce you cook a bit longer, every piece of meat you cook with less heat will just be that little bit better. So take your time and be passionate.

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 113

Dining Out

Affordable Luxury

Situated in the heart of Seef, Bushido restaurant and lounge really is in a league of its own.

Light Bento Box

B

ushido has become increasingly popular for diners and party-goers, especially at the weekend when they host their Pink Friday events, and has always been synonymous with high quality and luxury. However, many people may fail to realise that many prices on the menu are actually very affordable.

Of course, some dishes including the famous Wagyu beef or lobster tempura still have the high price tag but the majority of mains are under BD10 with a new item of ginger chicken added to the menu in recent months amounting to only BD5.1.

As we arrived at Bushido for lunch, a large board next to the front door advertised the new ‘Light Bento Box’ for only BD9. We decided it would be rude not to try it!

At first the price seemed high for lunch but we were pleasantly surprised with the quantity and after arriving on empty stomachs, soon felt suitably full.

The ‘box’ was divided into four sections featuring tuna, salmon and yellowtail Sashimi, grilled salmon and rice, green salad and vegetables. A generous bowl of miso soup and green tea (iced or hot) were also included along with a small platter of mixed fruit to finish.

So, what does a bento box taste like?

The miso soup was as delicious as ever, this time with a few added mushrooms providing extra flavour. The yellow tail sashimi

114 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

in particular was delicate and extremely fresh and the grilled salmon was melt-in-your-mouth delicious. One of the best parts was the simple green salad with sesame seed sauce.

The grilled fish with rice could have had more sauce but the rest including the fruit at the end and of course the refreshing iced green tea completed this healthy and filling lunch.

Customers can order grilled chicken instead of fish for an extra BD1 and the type of fish depends on the catch of the day with lunchtime bento boxes priced between BD9 and BD14.

Bushido General Manager Nicolas Budzynski explains, “We are trying to show people that Bushido has a wide range of prices throughout the menu. We are fair in our prices; if a dish is expensive it is because the products used are also expensive.

Bushido has been perceived as pricey but there is a good choice of dishes to eat here inexpensively too.”

Promotion Bushido currently have an ‘Early Birds’ promotion running until 31st March.

Customers can take advantage of this by visiting the restaurant from Saturdays to Wednesdays before 8pm and can enjoy a 20 per cent discount off the total food bill.

This offer is not applicable in the lounge or on beverages.

Another thing to mention about Bushido is the relaxing ambience, day and night.

The music is soothing and the restaurant exudes class and sophistication. Staff are also extremely polite and have extensive knowledge about the ingredients For more information Tel. +973 1758 3555.

What’s On

The InterContinental Way Of Entertaining Come to the heart of Manama and experience delicious cuisine and a fantastic band at the Downtown Bar and Lounge.

T

he InterContinental Regency Hotel has spent a vast amount of money on renovations over recent months and the brand new Downtown Bar and Lounge is intimate and cozy, already proving very popular with many Bahrain residents who visit in the early evening.

The new band TACIT are a combination of the finest six piece musical band in Cape Town. They consider their music a collection of passion, creativity and honed skill with four part vocal harmonies and a tight rhythm. Their influences range from the current Top 40, to Jazz, to Rock, to Blues, and they cover the likes of Bon Jovi, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Tina Turner and even David Guetta.

They entertain with famed songs

combined with a hint of their own originality and have a grand stage presence and a sound that is sure to blow your mind.

Lead Vocalists Tammy Uys has an

work exceptionally well together with a practiced ear for music and have the same goal in mind, embodying a music force to be reckoned with. After countless gigs all over South Africa and fresh from winning Battle of the Bands 2011, TACIT are looking wowing the crowd at the InterContinental Regency.

It is also important to mention the delicious cuisine.

The menu at the Downtown Bar and Lounge is filled with Thai, Indian, European and Mexican dishes and both the service and the food are excellent. The Lounge really is the perfect setting for a chic and stylish evening with great musical entertainment. The menu also features a wide range of drinks and signature cocktails

“The tight knit group of friends work exceptionally well together with a practiced ear for music and have the same goal in mind, embodying a music force to be reckoned with.” incredible voice and vocal range which gets better as the night goes on and the band get into their stride. The rest of the group consists of Khylie Robus, Isaac Monty, Hein Busch, Spencer Eksteen and Carlos Griffin. The tight knit group of friends

Tel. +973 1722 7777 or email info@icbahrain.com March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 115

Nightlife Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain All Week

Happy Hour - Flamingo Bar - live band, 2pm to 9pm, 20 per cent off.

Lagoon Pool Bar - buy 4 bottles of Corona and get 1 free; Fruit Drinks: young coconut BD3, half pineapple BD2.5 and slice of watermelon BD2. Flavoured iced tea - BD2; buy 2 bottles of Singha, get 1 free.

The InterContinental Regency Bahrain Downtown Bar and Lounge All Week

Happy Hours - 4pm to 8pm; get 30 per cent off your bill.

Night The

Dance as though no one is looking ...

Never Looked

Bright So

Al Safir

All Week - Happy hour from 12noon to 9pm at The Lounge, with a new female vocalist starting at 8.30pm until 12.30am, with Bossa music

Sundays

Champions Lounge, The K Hotel Wednesdays

Mad Wall Street - Evening drinks with unbelievable prices during new band TACIT’s intermissions!

Thursdays

Ladies’ Night - Ladies drink for free from 9pm.

Fridays

Crazy Crew Night - 9pm onwards with 50 per cent off all drinks, crew ID card required.

The K Hotel All Week

Happy Hour - Champions Sports Lounge 5pm to 7pm, 30 per cent off on house spirits, house wine by glass, all kinds of beer, soft drinks and juices while playing darts and billiards with friends for free.

Happy Hour - The K Lounge - 6pm to 8pm, 30 per cent off on house spirits, house wine by glass, all kinds of beer, soft drinks and juices.

116 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Bushido All Week

Lounge After Work (Bushido Lounge) - buy 1, get 1 free, 4pm to 7pm. Terrace now open.

Gulf Hotel All Week

Typhoon - 50 per cent off on all cocktails from 5pm to 7pm.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Vintage wine bar - Exclusive concept of tableside wine tastings accompanied by canapés and private explanations of our world class sommelier.

Sofitel All Week

Amber Cocktail Bar - 6pm to 2am - large selection of spirits and cocktails. Buy 1 shot at a regular price and get 1 shot free.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Live Arab and international music, 9pm to 2am.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Pick your lucky colour and win free drinks, 8pm to 2am.

Harvester’s Pub Crowne Plaza - Happy hour, 5pm to 8pm.

Cocoon Lounge - Chillax during happy hour, delicious sushi, international food menu, 5pm to 9pm, BD1.5 drinks, 20 per cent off on food.

Coral Bay - Oud player and singer Murad Zahra provides evening entertainment. Daily at Karma Lounge and Pool Bar, Happy Hour, 5pm to 7pm.

JJ’s Music Hall - Quiz night, win great new prizes as well as a monthly prize for the leaders in the JJ’s quiz team league. Entry is free of charge.

Mondays

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Happy hour buy 1, get 1 free, 2pm to 7pm.

JJ’s Irish Restaurant - Karaoke night, free shot of tequila for everybody that sings and Corona beer special - 5 bottles for BD9.5.

Happy Hour, Harvester’s Pub - (Crowne Plaza), 5pm to 8pm.

Cocoon Lounge Sushi Night - New sushi menu - sample 1 of 8 fresh platters of sushi plus unlimited selected beverages. BD12, 7pm to 11pm.

Wrangler - Mid-week madness, buy 1 get 1 free from 7pm to 12pm Coral Bay - Oud player and singer Murad Zahra provides evening entertainment. Daily at Karma Lounge and Pool Bar, Happy Hour, 5pm to 7pm.

Camelot - Unlimited moules et frites (mussles and fries) for BD14 per person inclusive of selected beverages (beer or wine) BD22 per person.

Kicks, Hotel Diva - Karaoke Night. Free shot with every song you sing, plus ladies drink free house spirits all night long.

Davy Crocketts - Jam Live on stage with the

Nightlife For over three decades Paul Oakenfold has been one of the leading forces in the dance music world. Lucky reader Lewis McDonough interviewed the music legend during his tour where he performed at Club Trinity in Dubai last month.

Dance Music Legend Did music play a big part throughout your childhood?

Yes, my father was a musician. Every weekend my mother and father would go out to a club on a Saturday night. They would always be singing and dancing before and after they went. There was always music around when I was younger, being played and being danced to in the house. That was when I first came across The Beatles and Elvis, when I was about four or five. My parents were playing their records all the time.

I read you were going to be a chef originally, what happened to that career path?

It is true, I am a fully qualified chef. I love cooking, but I just wanted to get into music. I passed all of my cooking exams but I thought I’d try music and see what happened and it worked. I still cook all the time, more as a passion and a hobby.

You grew up in London, is that your main base now?

I was born in East London and moved to

South London. I sold my house in London and I’m now living in Los Angeles. Believe it or not, I used to live next door to Tony Blair in London. There wasn’t banging on the walls for me to keep the noise down or anything, he was cool. The only thing that was a bit intimidating was the constant police presence outside the house.

You’re one of the world’s most successful DJs. Have you ever been turned away from a club?

When I was a kid yes! I was 16 and tried to get into a club for people who were 18 and above. I wore a shirt and tie! I thought it made me look older, it didn’t!

You were the first DJ to play at the Great Wall of China and you have sold out the Hollywood Bowl. What has been your favourite gig?

I’d certainly say they were two really important gigs. Playing in my hometown of London when I did a free party to over 60,000 people, was a really big deal for me. There were just so many people there so that would probably be my favourite performance.

You have worked with Simply Red, U2, the Rolling Stones and Madonna. Who is the best artist you have worked with?

I would definitely say U2 and Madonna would be up there, both for different reasons. I toured with U2 and remixed a lot of their stuff, they are a great bunch of guys. Bono is a really wonderful man in the way he wants to help people and change the world. Producing and touring with Madonna was amazing. That woman is a true icon and she still sets the bar today with her talent. I would also love to work with Dr Dre in the future.

You have done a lot of commercial work with Coca Cola and produced the infamous Big Brother theme tune.

Is commercial work something you will be doing Paul Oakenfold more in the and Lewis future?

McDonough Not really, I’ve been doing a lot of movies and video games but now I have put that on hold. I’m more focused on getting back to DJ’ing with a new record coming out called ‘Pop Killa’, that’s much more commercial and I’m going to be promoting that Paul Oakenfold continues his world tour this month and the new album will be out towards September.

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 117

Nightlife Seven Senses alter ego Mis-Sense! A brand new twist to karaoke.

Tuesdays

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Live Arab and international music, 9pm to 2am.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Pick your colour and win free drinks, 8pm to 2am.

Harvester’s Pub - Karaoke and Cocktail Night; band Section One starts 9pm. Happy Hour, 5pm to 8pm.

Chillax (Cocoon Lounge) - Happy hours, delicious sushi, international food menu, 5pm to 9pm, BD1.5 drinks, 20 per cent off on food.

Coral Bay - Oud player and singer Murad Zahra provides evening entertainment. Daily at Karma Lounge and Pool Bar, Happy Hour is from 5pm to 7pm.

Camelot - The Grape Escape, wine tasting with smooth grooves and cheeses to compliment.

Doors open at 7pm, BD10 per person.

9pm, BD1.5 drinks, 20 per cent off on food.

Brazil Lounge - Ladies night with DJ Thomas.

Free selected drinks for ladies from 9pm to 2am.

Saturdays

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Live Arab and international music, 9pm to 2am.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Pick your colour and win free drinks, 8pm to 2am.

Harvester’s Pub (Crowne Plaza) - Happy hour from 5pm to 8pm.

JJ’s Irish Restaurant - Enjoy all the big games on 4 big screens, ladies night BD4 for unlimited house beverages, DJ Dwayne Anthony will be playing from 9pm.

8pm to 2am Enigma, Windsor Tower Hotel - Unlimited free drinks for ladies.

JJs Irish Restaurant - Unlimited cocktails for BD4 and DJ Dwayne.

Rocky’s Café Ramee Intl Hotel - Unlimited free drinks from 9pm to 1.30am. Max Tempo band returns this month.

Shift 7, 14th Floor, Elite Resort and Spa Unlimited cocktails & house wine from 8pm to 12am!

Warblers, Ramee Baisan Hotel - Angels’ Nite, unlimited drinks - 9pm to 1.30am with new band Crazy Nuts.

Wednesdays

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Live Arab and international music, 9pm to 2am.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Pick your colour and win free drinks, 8pm to 2am.

Chillax (Cocoon Lounge) - Happy hours, delicious sushi, international food menu, 5pm to 9pm, BD1.5 drinks, 20 per cent off on food.

Lipstick Lounge (Cocoon) - Best international and local DJs, glamorous Ladies’ Night, complimentary cocktails, free entrance for ladies.

Coral Bay - One-man show Alfonse from 9pm onwards (Rayes) Coral Bay - Oud player and singer Murad Zahra provides evening entertainment. Daily at Karma Lounge and Pool Bar, Happy Hour is from 5pm to 7pm.

Thursdays

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Live Arab and international music, 9pm to 2am.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Pick your colour and win free drinks, 8pm to 2am.

Harvester’s Pub Crowne Plaza - Happy hour from 5pm to 8pm.

Chillax (Cocoon Lounge) - Happy hours, delicious sushi, international food menu, 5pm to 9pm, BD1.5 drinks, 20 per cent off on food.

Wrangler - Pay BD11 and drink the night away.

Gulf Air female crew get free entrance.

Coral Bay - One-man show Alfonse from 9pm onwards (Rayes) Coral Bay - Oud player and singer Murad Zahra provides evening entertainment. Daily at the Karma Lounge and Pool Bar, Happy Hour is from 5pm to 7pm.

Brazil Lounge - ‘Viva la Muzika’ with DJ Thomas live from 9pm to 2 am.

Sherlock Homes - Special entertainment by famous DJ Rob

Fridays

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Live Arab and international music, 9pm to 2am.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef - Pick your colour and win free drinks, 8pm to 2am.

Harvester’s Pub Crowne Plaza - Happy hour from 5pm to 8pm.

Chillax at the Cocoon Lounge - Happy hours, delicious sushi, international food menu, 5pm to

118 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Chillax (Cocoon Lounge) - Happy hours, delicious sushi, international food menu, 5 to 9pm, BD1.5 drinks, 20 per cent off on food.

Ladies’ Nights

Saturdays Al Safir Hotel - A wide range of free house beverages to choose from, 9pm to 2am.

Bedrock, Ramee Hotel California, Juffair Unlimited free drinks for ladies, 9pm to 1am.

Club Buffalo, Ramee Hotel California, Juffair - 3 free drinks for ladies from 9pm to 1.30am with new band Deluxe.

Club Euphoria, Ramee Intl Hotel - Free drinks 9pm to 1.30am and buy 1 get 1 free on bullfrogs.

Club F1, Metropolitan Hotel - 2 free drinks 9pm to 12pm Davy Crocketts (DCs), Hotel Diva, Juffair Complimentary house spirits and wines from

Sundays

Al Safir Hotel - A wide range of free house beverages to choose from, 9pm to 2am.

Bedrock - Unlimited free drinks for ladies, 9pm to 1am Club Euphoria - Free drinks for ladies 9pm to 1.30am Club F1 - 2 free drinks 9pm to 12pm Club Mynt (formerly Z Club) - selected beverages for ladies all night from 9pm.

Dublin Bar at Ramee Palace Hotel, Juffair Citrus Chic Ladies Nights - unlimited cocktails 9pm to 1.30am and new band Evolver Enigma, Windsor Tower Hotel - Unlimited free drinks for ladies JJ’s Irish Restaurant, Adliya - Unlimited Cocktails for BD4 and JJ’s house resident DJ Dwayne Rocky’s Café - Unlimited free drinks from 9pm to 1.30am! Max Tempo return.

Shift 7, 14th Floor - Unlimited cocktails and

Nightlife house wine from 8pm to 12am Warblers - Angels Night - Unlimited drinks 9pm to 1.30am with ‘Crazy Nuts’ band Wranglers - Free drinks all night

Mondays

Al Safir Hotel - A wide range of free house beverages to choose from, 9pm to 2am.

Bedrock - Unlimited free drinks for ladies, 9pm to 1am Club F1, Metropolitan Hotel - 2 free drinks 9pm to 12pm Club Mynt - Selected beverages for ladies all night from 9pm Dublin Bar - 50 per cent off all shooters and

Club Buffalo - 3 free drinks for ladies from 9pm to 1.30am with new band Deluxe.

Club F1, Metropolitan Hotel - 2 free drinks 9pm to 12pm Club Mynt - House wines and spirits for ladies from 8pm to 2am Kandy Club - Smooth RnB and current chart toppers Davy Crocketts - Complimentary house spirits and wines from 8pm to 2am with Seven Senses band.

Déjà Vu Restaurant - Free selected cocktails, house spirits and sparkling wine 7pm to 2am with DJ Freeze Citrus Chic Ladies Nights - Unlimited cocktails 9pm to 1.30am.

The K Lounge

beverages to choose from, 9pm to 2am.

Barcode - 2 drinks 9pm to 2am Bedrock - Unlimited free drinks for ladies, 9pm to 1am Camelot - Ladies can enjoy a martini or champagne cocktail and the next one is free, 6pm to 12am Club Buffalo - Pay BD3 for unlimited cocktails, Bullfrog, Long Island, Beer, Sparkling and house wine Club Mynt - Beverages for ladies all night from 9pm.

Cocoon Lounge - Lipstick Lounge from 5pm to 2am, unlimited drinks from Lipstick menu DCs (Davy Crocketts) - receive vouchers for 5 free drinks Enigma - Unlimited free drinks for ladies JJs Irish Restaurant - Unlimited house drinks BD4 Kicks Quiz Night - Ladies receive vouchers for 5 free drinks Lounge 338 - Pay BD5 and enjoy unlimited pouring spirits, red/white wine, shots and cocktails 7pm to 2am Shift 7 - Unlimited cocktails and house wine from 8pm to 12am.

Tabu - Free cocktails, wine and sparkling wine all night.

Warblers - Angels Nite - Unlimited drinks 9pm to 1.30am Wranglers - Unlimited free drinks Zodiac Lounge - Free drinks all night

Thursdays

Al Safir Hotel - A wide range of free house beverages to choose from, 9pm to 2am.

Cocoon Lounge - Fabulous, exclusive RnB and free bubbly all night with DJ Neil Torious.

Déjà Vu - Free welcome drink for ladies with DJ Freeze Downtown Bar and Lounge, InterContinental Regency Hotel - From 9pm unlimited selected beverages with band TACIT Shift 7 - Unlimited cocktails and house wine from 8pm to 12am.

Fridays

cocktails all night for everyone Enigma - Unlimited free drinks for ladies Harvesters - Unlimited free drinks all night, band Section One starts 9pm.

Rocky’s Café - Unlimited free drinks from 9pm to 1.30am.

Shift 7 - Unlimited cocktails & house wine from 8pm to 12am.

Tabu 1st floor at Panorama Hotel - Free cocktails, wine and sparkling all night long with DJ Salime Warblers, Angels Night - Unlimited drinks 9pm to 1.30am Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Senorita Night Complimentary drinks all night.

Tuesdays

Al Safir Hotel - A wide range of free house beverages to choose from, 9pm to 2am.

Bedrock - Unlimited free drinks for ladies, 9pm to 1am.

Enigma - Unlimited free drinks for ladies Fiddlers Green - Ladies night: 8pm to 12am unlimited house wine, vodka, tequila and Corona beer Harvesters - Cocktails buy 1, get 1 free JJ’s Irish Restaurant - Unlimited House Drinks BD4 with DJ Dwayne Kicks Pub - All house spirits and wines free for ladies Lounge 338 - Pay BD5 and enjoy unlimited pouring spirits, red/white wine, shots and cocktails 7pm to 2am Rocky’s Café - Unlimited free drinks from 9pm to 1.30am!

Shift 7 - Unlimited cocktails & house wine from 8pm to 12am.

Warblers - Unlimited drinks 9pm to 1.30am Wrangler - Unlimited free drinks

Wednesdays

Al Safir Hotel - A wide range of free house beverages to choose from, 9pm to 2am.

Bedrock - Unlimited free drinks for ladies, 9pm to 1am Brazil Lounge - Free wine and spirits from 7pm to 2am Club Buffalo - Pay BD3 for unlimited cocktails, sparkling and house wine Cocoon Lounge - Lipstick Lounge from 5pm to 2am, unlimited drinks from Lipstick drinks menu Déjà Vu - Unplugged free wine all night Enigma - Unlimited free drinks for ladies Harvesters - 2 free drinks for ladies Shift 7 - Unlimited cocktails and house wine from 8pm to 12am Warblers - Unlimited drinks 9pm to 1.30am Wranglers - Unlimited free drinks Gulf Hotel Vintage Wine Bar - 50 per cent off on wine purchases for ladies and a chance to receive exclusive prizes

If you want to see your event listed send your material by the 15th of every month by email: bc.editorial@ArabianMagazines.com

Al Safir Hotel - A wide range of free house

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 119

Listings

Restaurant Listings Chinese Hong Kong Adliya, Tel. 1772 8700 The myriad dishes are served in abundance and are all delicately and lovingly flavoured. The soft steamed dumplings are magnificent, the sizzling seafood is cooked to perfection, and the beef with black mushrooms and bamboo shoots deserves plaudits beyond Bahrain.

Copper Chimney Al Hambra Hotel (1772 8699) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.

Average DB10 Lanterns Budaiya Highway (1759 0591) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.

Average BD15 Moti Mahal Juffair (1782 5333)

Waves Crowne Plaza Hotel, Tel. 1753 1122 A popular lunchtime retreat, picking your fish and eating it is the order of the day, and the catch is as varied as it is complete. And the nutty, honeycombed chocolate fudge delight will finish you off nicely.

Rendezvous Seef Mall, Seef (1758 7708) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm

Le Jardin Ramada Bahrain, Tel. 1774 2000 Fully renovated with a new look - ‘Bigger, Better, Brighter’.

Selections InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily from 6.30 am to 11.30 pm Teatro Dana Mall (1755 8555) Sat-Wed 1pm-4.30pm, 6.30pm-midnight; Thu-Fri 1pm-11.30pm Average BD19

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.

Hong Kong Restaurant

Soie Sheraton, Tel. 1753 3533 Chinese and Asian specialities in sophisticated and elegant Oriental surroundings.

Beijing Chinese Adliya, Block 338 (1771 7969) Open daily, 11.30-3pm, 6pm-midnight.

Average BD15 First Chinese Adliya (1771 3603) Open noon-3.30pm, 6pm-midnight.

Foli Um Al Hassam (1772 2199) Open noon-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm.

Asian Cuisine Adliya (1771 7080) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.

Average BD50 Magic Wok American Alley, Juffair (1769 4105) Open daily 8am-11pm Memories Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 8646) Open Sat-Wed 11am-11pm; Thu-Fri 11am-midnight. Average BD12

Indian Aachi’s Chettinand Kitchen Near the Indian Club, Gudaibiya (1723 3110) Open daily 10.30am-3.30pm, 5.30pm-11.30pm.

Akbar Ramada Palace Hotel (1729 6660) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-12.30am.

Average BD16 Asha’s Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 7008) Open daily 11am-noon Clay Oven Adliya (1771 7008) Open daily 11.30am-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm Average BD14

120 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

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 The Great Kebab Factory Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 0629) Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight

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.

Al Waha Restaurant Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6425) Open 24 hours Al Wasmeyah Restaurant Golden Tulip Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 5000) Open 24 hours Block 338 Adliya (1771 0338) Open every evening from noon-2am Café Sayah Delmon International Hotel (1722 4000) Open 24 hours

Rimal Al Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000) Open daily 6.30am-11pm Average BD40

Upstairs Downstairs Adliya (1771 3093) Open daily 7am-11am, noon-3am, 7pm-midnight Average BD20 Yamin Jana Mediterranean Seafront Lounge Dragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 3800) Open daily from 2pm onwards Zoe Block 338, Adliya (1771 6400) Open Sat-Tue noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight; Wed-Fri noon-3pm, 7pm-2am.

Average BD18/25 Zytoun Novotel Al Dana Resort (1729 8008) Open daily 6.30am-midnight.

Average BD16

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.

Applebee’s Bahrain Mall, Sanabis (1755 5834) Open Sun-Thu, 11am-mid-night, Fri-Sat, 11am-1am. Average BD10

Downtown Lounge InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily from 5pm to 2am

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

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts Ras Ruman (1771 3000) Open daily 9am-10.30pm. Closed Monday.

Average BD20

Brasa de Brazil Seef Mall, Seef District (1758 2225) Open daily, noon-11pm. Average BD10

Muju Restaurant and Lounge Dragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 9800) Open daily, 24 hours Nando’s Juffair (1782 5100) Open 11am-2am

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

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.

‘Down Home Country American Style’ The Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Downstairs décor, Juffair, Kingdom of Bahrain

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

Listings

Restaurant Listings Hard Rock Café Exhibition Road, Hoora (1729 1569) Open daily, 8am-1am. Average BD10

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.

La Pergola Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 Traditional and contemporary Italian specialities with Italian music.

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 Medzo InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily for lunch and dinner Mino’s Adliya (1774 4777) Open daily 11am-12.30am.

Average BD15 Nino’s Al Aali Shopping Complex, Seef (1756 6555) Open daily 11am-11.30pm.

Average BD7 Oliveto Block 338, Adliya (1771 6747) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.

Average BD30 Pizzeria Café Italia Seef Mall (1758 2823) Open daily 11am-11pm.

Average BD12 Roma Um Al Hassam (1772 5885) Open daily noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm.

Average BD30 Romano Macaroni Grill Juffair (1772 3818)

Japanese Sato Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 The food here is good. Order well and you will be rewarded with your favourite dishes done very well indeed.

Bushido Seef (1758 3555) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-2am.

Average BD35 Fuji Sushi Bar Sheza Tower Hotel (1753 3336) Open daily 12.30pm-midnight.

Average BD25 Hajisushi American Ally, Juffair (1772 5638) Open daily 11am-11pm.

Kei Golden Tulip Hotel (1753 5000) Open daily 12.30pm-3pm, 7.30pm-11pm.

Average BD12-30

Maki MODA Mall (1752 2733) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD40 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

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.

7.30pm-11.30pm.

Average BD12 Isfahani Hoora (1755 0567) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD20

Bali Orchid Nr Omar Khayyam Hotel, Gudaibiya (1718 0424) Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD7

L’Sultan L’Hotel, Seef (1756 7222) Open daily noon-midnight

BamBu Adliya (1771 4424) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm. Average BD28

Laialy Zaman Nr Funland, Fateh Corniche (1729 3097) Open daily 11am-4am

Captain Cove’s Behind Mass Computer, Gudaibiya (3975 8989) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight.

Average BD5

Marmaris Avenue 28, Sanabis (1755 5909) Open daily 11am-midnight Maseelee Gulf Pearl Hotel, Souq (1721 0647) 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

Al Abraaj Budaiya (1759 5656) Open daily noon-midnight Al Arisha Um Al Hassan (1772 5414) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight

Takht-e Jamsheed Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6431) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm

Al Arz Ramada Palace Hotel (1729 6660) Open 7pm-midnight

Tarbouche City Centre Hotel, Gold City (1722 9979) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight

Al Fanar Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa (1753 1666) Open Mon-Sat 9.30pm-2am

Wafi Gourmet Bahrain City Centre (1779 999) Open daily 9am-12.30am

Al Mukhayam Ramada Palace Hotel Open daily 8pm-1am Al Shama Windsor Tower Hotel (1729 7000) Open daily 9pm-2am

Yas-e Isfahani Seef Mall (1758 1151) Open daily 10am-10pm.

Average BD16

Seafood Fareast Seafood Market Ramee International Hotel, Juffair (1772 7230) Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pm.

Average BD16

Al Yacout Novotel Al Dana Resort, Muharraq (1729 8008) Open daily 8pm-2am

Fish Market Al Bander Hotel and Resort (1770 1201) Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pm Average BD25

Amwaj Dajla Iraqi Mirador Hotel, Manama (1729 8008) Open daily 8pm-2am

La Marine Bugerland Building, Budaiya (1759 5777) Open daily 1pm-midnight

Anatolia Turkish Restaurant Cyprus Garden, Budaiya (1769 0601) Open daily noon-11pm

Sheza Seafood Market Sheza Tower Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 3336) Open daily 12.30pm-midnight

Carla’s Cyprus Garden, Sehla (1769 7687) Open daily noon-midnight

Totally Fish Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9757) Open daily noon-midnight

Dar Al Tajine Phoenicia Tower Hotel, Hoora (1731 1167) Open daily 6pm-6pm

Asian

Golestan Sheraton Bahrain Hotel (1753 3533) Open Sun-Fri 12.30pm-2.30pm,

Baan Saeng Thai Sh Isa Avenue, Adliya Open daily 11.30am-3pm, 6pm-midnight.

Khan Al Marjan Al Safir Hotel Hotel (1782 7999) Open daily 9.30pm-2am

Rayes Fateh Corniche (1731 2700) Open daily noon-12.30am Average BD12

Al Hamra Delmon International Hotel (1722 4000) Open 24 hours

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.

Kontiki Restaurant The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666

Hash House Adliya, Block 338 (1771 5094) Open daily 11am-midnight. Average BD15 Honey’s Souq (1774 9222) Open Sun-Wed 10am-5.30am, Fri-Sat, 24hrs.

Mamy Soup Exhibition Road, behind the CPR building (3919 5343) Open daily 11am-11pm.

Monsoon Adliya, near Ferrari Centre (1774 9222) Open Sat-Thu noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11pm; Fri 7pm-11pm. Average BD15 Nu Asia Seef, near Al A’ali Shopping Complex (1758 7171) Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD15.

Pong’s Off Exhibition Road, Behind CPR Office (1753 0800) Open daily 11am-4am.

Thai Chi Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9747) Open daily noon-midnight.

Thai Express Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 3595) Open daily 10am-11.30pm Thailand Block 338, Adliya (1771 7040) Open daily 6.30pm-11.30pm, Average BD15

Steakhouses The Butcher Shop & Grill Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2323 Serves a wide variety of steaks as well as salads, burgers and seafood dishes. Integrated into the restaurant is also a fully functioning retail butchery, which enables customers to choose a specific cut and size or buy meats for their home requirements.

Brazil Adliya (1782 6686) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm.

L’lle Al Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000) Open every evening, 6pm-11pm Legendz Steakhouse InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily for lunch and dinner 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.

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 121

Listings

Restaurant Listings Sizzlers Restaurant Mansouri Mansions Hotel (1771 6999) 24 hours. Average 10

A Lounge Adliya, Behind Monsoon (1771 0041) Open daily, 11am-2am. Average BD15

The Meat Co Block 338 (1774 2080) Open Sat-Wed 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm; Thu-Fri 12.30pm-midnight Average BD50

Al Bindaira Adliya (1774 4066) Open Mon-Thu, 10.30am-12.30am, Fri, 1pm-1am. Average BD12

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

Mexican Casa Mexicana Adliya (1771 5521) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight.

Average BD18 Margarita Mexicana Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6462) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm Senior Paco’s Adliya (1774 6462) Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight.

Average BD18

Polynesian Trader Vic’s Ritz Carlton Hotel and Spa, Seef (1758 6555) Open daily 7pm-midnight Average BD20

Thai Royal Thai Seafood Restaurant Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 Colonial stateliness and Asian adornment is the order of the day with high ceilings, great white pillars and multiple levels to accommodate private alcoves; it’s a grand and gracious setting. Choose ostrich, just because you can.

Muay Thai Quick Meal Restaurant Juffair Next to The Pizza Company Thai Food, Tel. 7704 0454 Sat-Wed 11am-3pm, 6pm-12am, Thu-Fri 11am-3pm; 6pm-1.30am.

Café Café T The Royal Golf Club, Tel. 1775 0777 Café T serves a selection of burgers, salads, fresh and ready-made sandwiches, fruit juices, milkshakes and frozen drinks. With an outdoor terrace seating up to 30 people and relaxing background music, Café T is the perfect place to meet up for a chat with friends.

PAUL Bakery & Restaurant Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2321 Seef Mall, Tel. 1758 0073 www.paul.fr Since the founding of the first small PAUL bakery in Lille back in 1889, the passion for authentic bread making has been passed on through generations.

- and relax in PAUL’s unique ‘rustic-chic’ ambience.

122 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

Maya Chocolat Seef Mall, Seef District Open Sun-Wed, 10am-11pm; Fri-Sat, 10am-midnight. Average BD15

Chocolatiers Godiva Seef Mall, Seef District (1758 0699) Open 10am-10pm

Med Café Adliya, near Carlton Hotel (1771 3088) Open daily 11am-1am. Average BD10

Hotel Chocolat Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9779) Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight

Albareh Art Café Adliya, Behind the Carlton Hotel (1771 3535) Open daily, 8.30am-11pm. Average BD5

Motorox Café Budaiya Highway (1759 2583) Open daily from noon-midnight. Average BD12

Al Riwaq Café Adliya, Block 338 (1771 7441) Open daily 10am-9pm. Average BD5

Palm Café Qal’at Al Bahrain Museum (1732 2549) Open daily 9.30am-7.30pm. Average BD6

Aroma Restaurant & Cafe Ground Floor, Seef Mall, Seef District Open for lunch and dinner (1758 2711)

Patisserie Valerie MODA Mall, Diplomatic Area Open daily 7.30am-9pm

Café Lilou Adliya, Block 338 (1771 4440) Open Sat-Thu 8am-11pm; Fri 10am-11.30pm.

Average BD10

Skyw@alk Café Marriott Executive Apartments, Juffair Open daily 6.30am-11.30pm. Average BD12

Maya La Chocolaterie Seef Mall (1758 3368) Open daily, Sun-Thursday 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-12am

Tea Club The Lagoon, Amwaj Islands Open daily 12pm-midnight. Average BD8

Patchi Manama, near Dairy Queen (1725 0501) Open daily 9.30am-9pm

Tilly’s Jawad Dome, Budaiya Open daily 8.30am-9.30pm

RAWASI Chocola Mahooz, near Qatar Embassy Open daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm.

Fri open from 4pm-9pm

Candles Coffee Adliya, Behind Fudruckers (1771 4844) Open Sun-Thu 9am-1am; Fri 5pm-1am, Average BD12 Caramel Cyprus Gardens, Budaiya (1779 7087) Open daily, 8.30am-midnight. Average BD5.

Café Ceramique Al A’ali Mall, Seef District Open daily, 9am-11pm; Fri-Sat 9am-midnight.

Average BD8 Coco’s Adliya, Block 338 (1771 6512) Open daily 10am-midnight. Average BD10

La Papillon Manama, near Dairy Queen (1725 5542) Open daily 9.30am-9pm Lovely Memories Mahooz (1772 2533) Open daily 10am-10pm

Veranda Adliya, Nr HSBC bank and Adhari (1771 5868) Open daily 9.am-1am. Average BD8

Salvia Budaiya, Budaiya Highway Open daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm.

Fri open from 4pm-9pm

Waterlemon Al A’ali Shopping Complex, Seef District (1758 1785) Open daily, 10am-11pm. Average BD6

Columbus Café Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 2324) Open daily, 8am-midnight. Average BD7 Crepe Café Palm Square, Budaiya Highway (7711 5566) Open Sun-Wed, 8am-midnight. Thu-Sat 8am-1pm. Average BD6 Deli France Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 6031) Open Sun-Thu, 8am-10pm; Fri-Sat, 8am-11pm.

Average BD9 Dome Café Juffair, near American Base (1781 0180) Open 24 hours. Average BD15 Friend’s Club Adliya, 54 Bani Otbah Avenue (1771 3732) Open Sat-Wed, 10am-midnight; Thu-Fri, 10am-1am. Average BD8 Gloria Jean’s Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9262) Open Sat-Wed, 9am-10.30pm; Thu-Fri, 9am-midnight. Average BD8 House of Coffee Muharraq, Sheikh Ebrahim Centre (3662 9968) Open daily 9am-9pm, Average BD6 La Maison du Café Adliya (1771 7524) Open daily 8am-2am. Average BD12 La Ventana At the moment La Ventana is currently undergoing renovation – check this space over the coming months to find out where the new café is located and our opinion!

Le Chocolat Seef, Seef District Open daily 7.30am-midnight. Average BD10 Macaron Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa (17636418) Open daily from 8am-8pm

Saraya International Daily Buffet and A La Carte Service So Brunch every Friday 12.30pm - 4pm buffet also extended in 2 restaurants ‘Fiamma and Wok’.

This is the longest Friday Brunch buffet in Bahrain Breakfast: 6.30am - 10.30 am (up to 11am on weekends) Lunch: 12.30pm - 3.30pm Dinner: 7pm - 10.30pm Tel. 1763 6410

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Amber Cocktail Bar Opens Daily, Opening hours 6pm - 2am Tel. 1763 6419 Lagoon Pool Bar Opens Daily, Beverage and Snacks Opening hours: 8am - 8pm Tel. 1763 6416 Lobby Lounge Opens Daily, Opening Hours: 8pm - Midnight Tel. 1763 6363

Tapas Restaurant & Bar Opens Daily, A La Carte Service Lunch: 11.30am - 3.30pm Dinner: 5pm - 1am Tel. 1763 6412

Macaron Pastry Shop Open Daily Authentic French Pastries Opening hours: 8am - 8pm Tel. 1763 6418

Fiamma Italian restaurant Closed on Sunday A La Carte Service Lunch: 12.30pm - 3.30pm (Thu, Fri, Sat) Dinner: 7pm - 11.30pm Tel. 1763 6414

Wok Asian Restaurant (opening soon) Closed on Tuesday A La Carte Service Lunch: 12.30pm - 3.30pm (Thu, Fri, Sat) Dinner: 7pm - 11.30pm Tel. 1763 6415

La Mer Seafood restaurant Opens daily for dinner only A La Carte Service or from the catch of the day display Theme night: Cheese night every Sunday 7 - 9pm Dinner: 7pm - 11.30pm Tel. 1763 6411

Pashawat Regional Speciality Restaurant (opening soon) Closed on Monday, A La Carte Service Dinner: 7pm - 1am Tel. 1763 6413

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Listings

Sports, Fitness and Kids Creative Kids

Fitness/Aerobics/Spinning

Meditation/Yoga

Al Safir Fitness First The Regency The Diplomat Radisson Blu Curves (Budaiya) Ez Fit Sports Complex Image Spa & Leisure (Sheraton Hotel) The Health Club (Gulf Hotel) Nautilus (Crown Plaza) Sports Club & Spa, Ritz-Carlton Al Gosaibi Gym Ghassan’s Gym (mat and private classes available) La Fontaine Centre World Beat Fitness Centre

Art of Living 3988 8760 Dessange 1771 3999 (Yoga classes offered several times a week) Bahrain Meditation Centre Bahrain 1779 5961 (Wellness Resort) Saturdays and Wednesdays. 7pm to 8.30pm, Mixed yoga classes. Sundays and Tuesdays (Ladies Only), 10am to12pm Bayoga Centre 1772 5027 Daily yoga classes, relaxing yoga and meditation for beginners and advanced students.

World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 Reiki Master And Teacher Melanie 3933 0911 offers Reiki sessions and courses or www.reikibahrain.com Anubhaa Sharma anurays@yahoo.co.in

1781 3815 1332 2200 1722 7777 1753 1666 1769 1496 1769 2378 1752 4570 1771 3000 1753 0764 1758 9380 1729 3221 1769 5911 1723 0123 1761 2576

Badminton Bapco Club Telgu Kala Samithi The Indian Club

1775 3666 1727 6300 1725 3157

Basketball EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Basketball Association

1769 2378 1774 1010

Bowling Al Bander Hotel & Resort Awali Bowling Centre Bahrain Bowling Association Bapco Club Funland Centre

1769 2378 1769 5809 1727 6134

1765 0079

Dance Bahrain Ballet Centre Indian Institute for Performing Arts Latin Dance Bahrain Sampaguita Club Sayaw Unlimited Dance Club Victoria Dance Centre World Beat Fitness Centre Profiles Fitness Centre Pineapple

1769 3232 1723 1717 3967 6349 3910 6589 3982 7096 3987 6215 1761 2576 1772 7766 1771 2000

Football Al Ahli Sports Club Al Hala Sports Club Bahrain Rugby Football Club British Club Dilmun Club EZ Fit Sports Complex Arsenal Soccer School

1727 7712 1734 2182 1769 5809 1772 8245 1769 2986 1769 2378 1756 1615

Golf Awali Club Royal Golf Club

Snooker Bahrain Snooker Association Jimmy’s Snooker and Billiards Club

Bahrain Badminton and Squash Federation The Country Club Al Bander Resort Nautilus (Crowne Plaza) The Diplomat Radisson Blu

1782 5301 1771 6147

Swimming Lessons British Club Dilmun Club Ritz Carlton Sports Club The Diplomat Radisson Blu

1753 1165 1745 0000 1778 0011 3944 4137

Martial Arts Japan Karate Association 3944 9628/3667 2204 Profiles Fitness Centre (Boxing for ladies) 1772 7766 Zen-Do 1761 1909 Bahrain Karate Centre 3947 7709 Goju Karate Club 3965 9510 World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 Bahrain Karate-do Academy 3665 7059

124 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

1759 3593 1770 1201 1753 0764 1753 1666

Awali Riding Club 1775 6525 Saturdays to Thursdays, 7am to 7pm.

Fridays 7am to 6pm. Desert rides.

Qualified instructors

Bahrain Riding School 1769 0448 Daily rides 4pm to 6pm Dilmun Club 1769 2986 Sundays to Thursdays. 8am to 11am and 3pm to 7.30pm Shakhoora Riding School 1759 1103 Sundays to Thursdays, 8am to 12noon, 3.30pm to 7pm The Country Club 1759 3593 Fridays Horse riding in paddock, 1pm to 4pm Twin Palms Riding Centre 1759 1668

Bahrain Sailing School Coral Beach Club The Marina Club The Sailing Club The Yacht Club Aquatique - Organised pearl diving Al Bander Resort Bahrain Swimming Association Dilmun Club

1729 2313

1729 2662

Horse Riding

Watersports

Ice Skating Funland Centre

1769 5809

Art Classes Paint In Space 1762 6232 Chaoss 1759 2096 Dar Albareh 1771 3535/3906 9016 Celebrations 1759 5791 Bahrain Art Society 1759 0551 Indian Institute for Performing Arts 1723 1717 The Studio 3975 4863 Studio Ceramics 1759 9026 Things to Do 1759 0409

Drama Film-making workshops

3600 1777

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

1756 6566 1769 2378 1761 2576 1759 2096

Libraries Awali Library (BAPCO, Awali) British Club (Times vary) Iqra’s Children’s Library Muharraq)

1775 3666 1772 8245 1732 0955

1772 8245 1769 2986 1758 0001 1753 1666

1731 0252 1721 2700 1729 1527 1783 6078 1770 0677 1727 1780 1770 1201 1768 0867 1769 0926

Tennis Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561 The British Club 1722 8245 The Country Club 1759 3593 Dilmun Club 1769 2986 Gulf Hotel 1771 3000 Marina Club 1729 1527 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561/1772 9756 Filipino Club Tennis Group 3952 7587

Bahrain Music Institute Kindermusik Bahrain Room to Rock

Al Areen Wildlife Park

1783 6116

Adhari Park

1740 7300

North of the Shaikh Isa Bin Sulman Highway Fun for all ages, includes a sports camp, groovy town, discovery village and indoor entertainment Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports

Chaoss

1759 2096 Swimming, gymnastics, dance and Taekwon-Do for children and teenagers.

Dolphin Park Corniche next to Marina Club One hour marine mammal show.

1729 3109

Funland

1729 2313

Corniche next to Marina Club Bowling and Ice Skating everyday.

Hawar Island

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

Kid’s Kingdom

Music Lessons

1775 6770 1775 0777

Go Karting/Racing Rally Town BIC Silver go-Karts (Tubli) Gulf Speed One (Seef)

Rugby

Squash

Cycling Bahrain Cycling Association

Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 (Thurs) 4.45pm for girls; (Sun) 7.30pm for women Riffa Views Netball League 3630 6946

Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1770 1201 1775 3666 1782 2077 1775 3666 1729 2313

Cricket EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Rugby Football Club SLC Grounds, Riffa Thursdays, Training 3pm to 5pm

Netball

Where To Go

1772 1999 1761 3144/3925 6904 1761 1785

Corniche, next to the Hawar reservation office A small outdoor playground. Good fun for young children. Open until late.

Magic Island Seef Mall

Play Centres Chakazoolu Indoor Theme Park www.danamall.net Chaoss Funland Centre (bowling, ice skating, pool) www.funlandcentre.com Mad Science Magic Island, www.seefmall.net My Gym, Softplay at Dilmun Club Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark www.lpodwaterpark.com

1755 8500 1759 2096 1729 2313

1759 1136 1758 2898 1756 6566 1769 0926 1784 5100

Play Groups Chaoss, Off Budaiya Highway 1759 2096 Kindermusik 3925 6904/1761 3144 Ajyaal Montessori Pre-School Mini Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (4 to 7 year olds) Musical Babies, Nadeen School 1772 8886 My Gym, Seef District 1756 6566 Rhymes & Chimes, Dilmun Club 3929 6848 Soft Play, Off Budaiya Highway 3965 3678 Sticky Fingers 3961 8340 Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (7 to 11 year olds) Tots & Toddlers Group, 1772 8245 The British Club Wriggly Readers, British School 3912 9585 (for pre-schoolers) www.mumsinbahrain.net

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

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

Each ride costs 100 fils. Tokens available.

Soft Play 3965 3678 Future Shape Dance Studio, Garden City Every Monday and Wednesday from 9.30am to 11.30am Children under the age of six months attend for free. www.softplaybahrain.com Studio Ceramics

1759 9026 Budaiya Highway Pottery painting and more.

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

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

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

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

Currency The Bahrain Dinar (BD) is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of US$1=BD0.377 - in other words a dinar is worth about $2.65. It is a convertible currency with no restrictions on its import or export. Tip: the Saudi Riyal (SR) is also accepted

in shops for purchases at an exchange rate of BD1=SR10 (less in hotels) and you may be given Saudi money as change.

Business Hours Friday is the Islamic equivalent of the Christian Sunday. The weekend falls on a Friday and a Saturday. Most shopping malls and commercial centres are generally open seven days a week.

Listings Schools American Curriculum

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

3960 7219 3968 7190

Darts Balouch Club Sri Lanka Club

1729 2231 1729 7878

1724 2641 1727 1157

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

1772 5959 1769 0926 1776 1000 1777 6489 3965 5676

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

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

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

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

Wellbeing Kelly Armatage Inc. Offering counselling, life coaching and cognitive behavioural therapy sessions Mob: 3993 1399 Email: info@kellyarmatage.com www.kellyarmatage.com

Chess Bahrain Chess Federation

151 181 191 100 140

3987 3357 1753 0020 1753 3558

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

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 125

News Bites

Toddler Chews Head Off Snake

Asian Elephant Win Thida with Vet AnneMarie Verbruggen

Fitted with Contact Lens

A 45-year-old Asian elephant in Amsterdam’s Artis Zoo has become the first in Europe to be fitted with a contact lens. Win Thida, the oldest elephant in the zoo’s herd, badly scratched her eye during a scuffle with another elephant. Vet Anne-Marie Verbruggen said, “The main difficulty was her height. Elephants can’t lie down for long because their immense weight impairs their breathing, so I used a ladder to get close enough. She seemed happier straight away.” Win Thida started life as a working elephant in Burma and she was transferred to Amsterdam, Netherlands, in 2004 and has become a favourite with children there.

Bizarre

A thirteen-month old Israeli toddler has chewed the head off a snake. The boy, Imad Aleeyan who has six teeth, was found chewing on the head of the twelve-inch snake by his mother, who alerted the neighbourhood with her screams. His mother, Ghadir Aleeyan explained, “I started to scream. I couldn’t believe my eyes, I nearly died of fright.” A neighbour who had rushed to see what was going on, pulled the halfdead reptile out of the boy’s mouth and killed it. They immediately checked the child for any bite marks but found none.

Doctors at the hospital said the snake was poisonous and explained the child was very lucky because they release less venom in the winter.

News

Some weird and interesting rld. news bites from around the wo

Labradoodle Saves Grandfather After Ravine Fall

Monty the labradoodle really was a man’s best friend after rescuing his owner, Maurice Holder, when a fall knocked him unconscious. The dog stayed with Mr Maurice Holder Holder, 73, when he fell and Monty 40 feet down a ravine and blacked out as the waters rose around him.

The labradoodle then led him to safety up the river bank in Cornwall before barking to raise the alarm at a nearby pub. Mr Holder said, “I was standing still listening to the silence and the sound of the river, when suddenly the earth moved. “There was a tremendous rumble and the whole lot came down with no warning, nothing. I fell about 40 feet and landed on a great slab. I looked around and saw Monty sat next to me.” The loyal pet then ran off to bark for help and came back with a man who called an ambulance. Maurice was taken to Royal Cornwall Hospital where they treated him for two days for head injuries, broken ribs and cuts and bruises to his back.

126 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

US Man Jokes After Nail is Removed from His Brain

Chicago man Dante Autullo is recovering after having a nail removed from his brain – which he hadn’t known was there. Autullo thought his doctors were joking, and that he had merely cut himself with a nail gun.

They assured him that the X-ray was real, clearly showing a nail lodged in the middle of his brain. Doctors removed the 3.75-inch (7.62cm) nail which had come within millimetres of the part of the brain that controls motor function. Autullo said that he was building a shed and was using the nail gun above his head when he fired it. “It really felt like I got punched on the side of the head but I thought it went past my ear.” He only noticed the next day that something was wrong and went to hospital. “He is recovering and feels good. He remembers everything,” his partner said. “It’s amazing, a miracle.”

Lifestyle

Horoscopes “Our truest life is when we are in dreams awake.” - Henry David Thoreau Pisces 19 February - 20 March

The world is entering the season of darkness and then light and for the Pisces, religious matters and festivals are important. You begin to focus on the future and what it has in store for you. Do not stop creating your destiny. Plan.

Do away with all that is not substantial and ideals, ideas and beliefs that have no value. At the eclipse, all plans will be altered. Build your own ship.

Aries 21 March - 19 April

This is a month which you realise that your hard work and dedication boost your ambition for success. Keep striving this month as you will find recognition and esteem through your efforts. Continue to be a leader and not a follower and your expectations will succeed.

Taurus 20 April - 20 May

You will find that possibly there may be much work to do this month that involves a Libra. Other possibilities include re-harmonising your daily life, health and environment. This may be due to the eclipse bringing a shock of change to your dreams, hopes, plans and schedule. Now you will need to make a fresh start. While this may not make you happy, you must simply stride forward.

Keep your head up, better days are coming.

Gemini 21 May - 21 June

This is the month for Geminis to allow others to be vocal and express what they need, want, know and think. In this way you will nourish those that you care about that are feeling a little inadequate around you. Your natural Gemini nature will also help others to solve problems that they may be experiencing this month. Neglect nothing and do not overlook anyone. Pay careful attention to your words and practice them.

Cancer 22 June - 22 July

Your creativity is the focus this month and for the next several months for both you and your children and your combined creativity. Priorities have passed, emphasis has shifted and the beauty and the balance of your home are essential. This is due to Mercury retro which may create chaos and disorder. During the retro, do not try to learn anything new, especially at work. Your home will be your focus and creative thought and endeavours will evolve.

Leo 23 July - 21 August

This month may find you deciding if real estate is a means to ensure your future, your creativity, your foundation and your wealth. You may be considering looking beyond your comfort zone.

Take the decision slowly and do not jump in.

You may find issues arise regarding secret family issues. Keep your guard up and guide the family.

Virgo 22 August -

21 September

What could be a chaotic situation is balanced by the Virgo’s careful handling of money and resources this month. Something overabundant occurs. Something that was not seen comes to light. Something that is kept secret must be handled carefully. You may find that this month you plan a trip to visit family that lives a distance. Now is the time to plan.

Libra 22 September - 22 October

This may be a month that it may be necessary to ask for financial help. There are many people willing to assist you, but be certain to make certain that you ask from someone you trust. Take the resources, which are currently yours and be sure to maintain and upgrade them, making them more attractive and valuable. You may need to ask for assistance. Just be careful not to be careless with resources. Protect them, share them and most of all appreciate them. With Mercury retro,

you must be aware that communication and computers fall by the wayside. Do not take it personally.

Scorpio 23 October

- 22 November

You will find although you might want to share your plans, this is not the time to do so. You must be better prepared to avoid the critical views that others will have. Look up old friends that you have not contacted in some time. If there are amends to make, make the first step. This will help to ensure a purified, bright and clean reality.

Sagittarius 23 November 21 December

March may find the Sagittarian emphasising on personal problems and seeing themselves more limited than normal. Should you find that you are experiencing these emotions/behaviour, only focus on this behaviour for a few minutes each day and then stop. Pray instead. Virtue is a much greater reward.

Capricorn 22 December - 19 January

This may be the month that the Capricorn begins to expand friendships seeking new friends. This may be because you are experiencing a change in your interests and capacities. Although you may be broadening your group of friends, do not neglect the old and tend carefully to your present relationships.

You have caring friends that care for you and you for them even as you expand your horizons and concentrate on a realistic new future.

Aquarius 20 January - 18 February

This month finds you in the spotlight while other Aquarians will feel uncomfortable. Nevertheless, you may find that high-level people will take a liking to get to know you. You may have honour and praise bestowed upon you, and even a possible promotion. You will discover the means to create new personal tactics for success and personal satisfaction.

March 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 127

Opinion

Personal Views from KSA

On The

Finer Points Of Discourse

by Mohammad T. Al Rasheed deusvolt@hotmail.com

I

want to tell you something amusing. So amusing, in fact, that it might make you want to puke. What the heck! ‘Tis the doldrums of winter and all the news seems nothing but blood and violence, so a bit of dark humour should not go far off the mark.

Years ago I used to write a weekly column for the Saudi newspaper Arab News. In fact it was that column that somehow brought me to this current publication. Though circulation numbers do not compare, I thought of it as a move up at the time. This is not a suck up to Bahrain Confidential, rather, there is a solid reason for this statement. Bahrain Confidential did not censor me or play around with my sentences. Arab News was doing exactly that and I was the last to know about it. In fact I only found out when I opened their webpage on a Thursday morning last month and found my words screwed up. I complained. Nothing happened. At times some sentences got picked up on the Net and I was either praised or trashed for something I did not really say. I don’t mind either trashing or praising, but I’d rather earn it myself.

When they did not respond to my complaints or have the courtesy of sending me the ‘edited’ version of my articles before publication, I quit. I stayed away for many years. This caused them more trouble than it cost me. Bragging? Yes. I simply earned it. The Editor-in-Chief at the time told me that on Thursdays the site got 800,000 extra hits. A Congressman visiting with a delegation from the US House of Representatives told me as I was interviewing some of the delegation

This month, Mohammad Al Rasheed gets his points across regarding freedom of the press and how some of his views have recently caught the attention of no less than a top-level diplomat. members that I was ‘required reading on the Hill.’ That is a direct quote. Needless to say, I was rather pleased and thoroughly amused - as Queen V would not have it.

A few months ago, there was a change at the top with Arab News. The new Editorin-Chief and I agreed that I would return.

This time on Sundays. Fine by me. The first Sunday I wrote an article explaining my return in the most tender diction. That went well. The following Sunday I wrote an article about the crisis in the Euro zone. By my standards (!), the article was rather mild in tone and heavy on ‘facts.’

I simply asked the Europeans to spend their money to save themselves and not ruin the world and inflict pain again on all of us. I reminded the Europeans that two

appearing on their website, however, it was withdrawn while the comment by the Frenchman was still there.

I tried contacting the paper, but no one answered my calls. No one. Zilch.

I did my investigation (I am a journalist of sorts after all) and found out what happened. The French Embassy pressured and complained officially. They got the comments off the air, as it were. Worse, they demanded I be off Arab News altogether. That was the end of my brief return to the paper. I have yet to hear anything from Arab News. I simply sent the next article for the next Sunday, but it was not there. I got the message they were too coy to tell me, either personally or officially.

All of this was of course too late. The whole thing got picked up and went online all over the place. You can see for yourself and read the whole thing on Arab News itself, if it is still there after this article, or go to www.d-corner.com to see and read the French farce in its entirety. Indeed, Google it.

If ever there was a hat in one’s feather, or is it a feather in one’s hat - one never knows dealing with French diplomacy this is it. As for the irony reaching us from the French in particular about ‘freedom of the press,’ ‘democracy,’ and this and that, I leave to you to figure out and measure provided you have a bucket big enough to contain it. An insulting cartoon is ‘freedom of the press’; a seemingly measured article gets banned in a foreign country and its author banned from writing in his country and his press. In all honesty, I don’t know who to blame, the French or the people who complied with their demands? You tell me

“I don’t mind either trashing or praising, but I’d rather earn it myself.”

128 | Bahrain Confidential | March 2012

world wars were enough damage and a financial one is needless. The response was heavy. Generally, people either agreed or critically analysed. The volume was heavy and the article seemed to hit a tender and valid spot. What is journalism, after all, but that? On the third day of publication, there was a bombshell.

His Excellency the French Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, no less, personally wrote a scathing comment that smelled of rotten French cheese and personal venom. Not to mention lying and outright personal attack accusing me of all sorts of things. As a point of principle, I very rarely answer comments. But this time I took the man to task and asked Arab News to publish my answer. They hesitated, then published. Within two hours of my answer

Under the Patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa King of Bahrain

Discover nature’s generosity Bahrain Animal Production Show 2012

22-27 March 2012 at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir

Get ready for an amazing animal show!

The second edition of mara’ee promises a memorable experience for all visitors, packed with fun, education and entertainment...

· Live shows featuring: Cómo bailan los Caballos Andaluces, Clemence Faivre

· Trade exhibition (3 days) with exhibitor’s sharing session · Public events including: animal exhibition, bird show, fish world, themed walkabout acts, outdoor theatre, fun stations & farmers’ market

· Educational zone including: animal boulevard learning trail, rainforest adventure maze, mad science lab, friends of mara’ee show ... and much more

Come along with your family and friends – admission is free. for more info: www.maraee.gov.bh

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