Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!
131 Issue
Taking It To The Next Level - Leaders in the Hospitality Industry .... And Much More BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20
TOD’S BOUTIQUES • MANAMA: MODA MALL, TEL. +973 17131090 • BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE: SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, TEL. +973 17172000
Contents
32
November 2013 • Issue 131
Poetry 26 Poem: David Hollywood: Storm
Opinion 76
John Ridley: Letter From Bahrain
Regulars 12 Not To Be Missed 18 New In Town 70 Technology 78 Society: Out & About
Exclusive Interviews 50 46 64 118 120
W By Walla: The Woman Behind The Designs
Studio’s Choreographers
The Kattan Sisters: Fashion & Trends More Than Just a Fragrance: Syed Junaid Music: May Alqasim Bollywood Steps: Bahrain’s First Dance
Fashion 52 W By Walla 54 MANGO 56 New Look 58 Pull & Bear
Beauty, Health & Well Being 60 66
Beauty Buzz Health Updates
Juicy Pickings 22 Art Space: Ahmed Emam 28 Sheerluxury
Cars 104 Car News 105 The BMW 4 Series Coupé 107 Car Review: Ssanyong Korando
Essential Listings 107 Recommended Restaurants, Nightspots,
Essential Info, Beauty Spots, Sports and
Fitness, Clubs and Associations.
FEATURE OF THE MONTH
Leaders In Bahrain: Talking To The Manager!
OPINION
Kelly Armatage: Marvelously Motivated
Lea Tal
Publishers: Nick Cooksey and Rebecca Smith Editor in Chief: Rebecca Smith Editorial: Melissa Nazareth Jenny Ann Thomas Art Design: Noel De Juan Contributors
Eng. Rehan Ahmed Kelly Armatage David Hollywood John Ridley Ameena Adel Bucheeri Enosh Kumar Design Contributor Githin Narayan Sales Account Manager Zena Williams Gareth George Chelsea Copenhaver Administration Nikesh Pola Sales Coordinator Smily Andrews PR & Events Mark Jason Garcia Photographer Shareef Panhatt Business Development/ProDesign Redia Castillo Sueallen Menezes Dhanraj S. Distribution Distribution Executive Mohammed Yousif Muhammed Shareef P Rafnaj Regional Sales-Point Distribution Bahrain: Al Hilal Corporation
Tel. +973 1748 0800 UAE: Jashanmals Tel. +971 4341 9757 Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
For Advertising Opportunities: Tel. +973 1782 2368 Email: sales@ArabianMagazines.com
Letter Hello, Dear Readers!
It only feels like yesterday that we were talking about summer – now it’s winter!!! Has someone speeded up the days? But be sure we’re not complaining. Ok it becomes darker earlier – which can be considered to be quite cozy, we finally have cold water running out of the taps and we can walk out of the house without getting drenched in humidity. So wrap up, get out and stretch your legs as we’ve survived another long hot summer!
are becoming leaders in their own beautiful way! The party season is upon us and we think we can hear you cheer ‘About time toooo’. Find out where the most happening parties and yummylicious dining offers are in our Gastro & Nightlife section (Pages 112-117). If you’re one of those ‘I have nothing to wear’ people, fear not as our Fashion section (Page 50) brings you a variety of styles to choose from; so get onto the dance floor – and shake that booty!
We’ve always admired leadership as a quality and believe that leaders are born and not made; also, Tolstoy said leadership was being an ‘action’ and not just a ‘position’. So this month the team met up with some leaders in the hospitality sector and found it doesn’t take a certain personality to become a leader; hard work, determination and good communication make you one. Check out our Leadership feature on pages 32 to understand what we’re talking about. It is definitely a case of ‘Do as I do and not as I say.’
Last but not the least we would like to bid goodbye to one of our most cherished contributors, Kelly Armatage; we run her column for the last time in Bahrain Confidential, this month. Kelly has enriched so many of our readers with her expertise; we wish her all the best in her future endeavours.
As you will see – we’ve been busy bee’s this month and the magazine is packed with interviews. From a fashion designer (Page 50), a DJ (Page 118), a perfumier (Page 64) and finally choreographers (Page 120); as you read about their success stories you will find out how they
Published by: Online edition
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.
ian Guide to Arab
nArabia.net
at www.Fashio
fashion! life, luxury and
Taking It To The Next RO2 KD2 OMAN KSA SR20 KUWAIT BAHRAIN BD2
Level - Leaders in
131 Issue
ry
Indust the Hospitality More .... And Much
UAE DHS20 QATAR QR20
Find us online:
www.FashionArabia.net
On a parting note we would love to remind you that it’s Movember (Page 66); so, men get those beards and moustaches growing and women, well support the men and let’s together celebrate the spirit of prostate cancer awareness. Wrap up, even though it’s still warm stay beautiful!
and
The Bahrain Confidential Team
Readers’ Letters
Dear Editor ... Many thanks to all who wrote in last month and apologies if p us informed and your letter isn’t printed but we get so many. Kee abianMagazines.com
keep us in check by sending comments to info@Ar d humour. and remember our response back is said in goo
Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!
Bikini Babes
131
You had a fashion page on lingerie and ladies’ nightwear in your October issue. Well, the collection was good but it would be better if you had some models. I love all the beautiful models who are featured in your magazine. Could I meet them sometime without my wife and girlfriend knowing?
Issue
Sexy Man
Dear Sexy Man, we think you’re creepy man. Don’t you think you’ve got your hands full already? We would never put you onto these models (no pun intended) even if we had their contact details. Learn some loyalty!
Train In Bahrain
Taking It To The Next Level - Leaders in the Hospitality Industry .... And Much More
Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!
Complimentary Copy
BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20
130 Issue
The London Underground feature was interesting. I was shopping at Seef Mall the other day and the buggy passed by me; I was thinking that Bahrain should start a subway services too. There is no dearth of fuel in this part of the world and though it’s a small island, trains would be a nice means to commute. Sonja, Juffair
The One Stop Shop For All FACE TO FACE
MORRIS L. REID DJ YVES V IN PICTURES
The London Underground – 150 Yrs Old The Chloé LookBook .... And Much More BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20
Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net
Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!
129 Issue
TALENT UNRAVELLED
Anonymous
Morris Reid
Good Lord, Anonymous! Who told you that we accept money to feature people in our magazine? Bahrain Confidential is open to publishing any news worthy story and we love to feature talent from both the Kingdom and outside. If I may, the best things in the world are free!
Picture Perfect BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20
8 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
LOL! Thanks, Foodie. We work on all our food features when we’re really hungry – probably that’s the secret.
I used to think Bahrain Confidential is yet another fashion magazine – B-OR-I-N-G! But your interview with Morris Reid last month had me stumped. Never knew you guys are an intelligent magazine too. I stand corrected.
Wannabe Diva I want to be Bahrain Confidential’s Diva-of-themonth. How much do I need to pay for this? Please let me know so I can be featured.
Foodie
Beauty With Brains
Nice idea, Sonja! Let’s hope the right people read this!
Bridezilla?
want to eat the magazine sometimes. Keep up the good work.
The food images that you use in your health, gastro and nightlife sections are yummylicious! They make me
Tim
Thanks, Tim! We’re a ‘fashion magazine’ and more! A luxury lifestyle magazine and yes, luxury lifestyle and intelligent are not mutually exclusive! We offer something for everybody. Hope you enjoy reading our November issue too. Cheers!
Pat On The Back For Bahrain Confidential
“Loving the cover, Jenny. It looks brilliant!” (Client on the Yves V Interview in October 2013)
B A H RA I N CI T Y CE N T R E S E E F MA L L
People
“Don’t think for a moment that I’m really like any of the characters I’ve played. I’m not. That’s why it’s called ‘acting’.” Leonardo DiCaprio
Birthday: 11th November 1974 Birthplace: California Age: 39 years old Birth Sign: Scorpio About him: He is an actor and a producer who won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor for his role in The Aviator in 2004. Before Becoming Famous: He began acting in commercials and educational films under the name Lenny Williams.
Oscar Nominations: He was nominated for an Oscar for his role as an autistic boy in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, his known role was the artist Jack Dawson in Titanic in 1997, and since then he has done some pretty outstanding movies. Net worth: Leonardo DiCaprio’s net worth is USD200 million (Approx. BD75,405,132.84) and increasing. Fun Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio owns an island in Belize where he intends on creating an eco-friendly resort.
ICONS OF THE MONTH Bahrain Confidential’s favourite November babies.
“If you want to become a great chef, you have to work with great chefs. And that’s exactly what I did.” Gordon Ramsay
Birthday: 8th November 1966 Birthplace: Scotland Age: 47 years old Birth Sign: Scorpio Who is he: A Scottish chef and a television personality who became insanely famous for his critical and belittling demeanor on Hell’s Kitchen. Before Becoming Famous: He used to play football until an injury ended all hopes of a promising career in football. After that, he went back to college to finish up a course in hotel management. He trained with some of the world’s leading chefs like Marco Pierre White and
10 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Guy Savoy. Awards: He was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire awarded by Queen Elizabeth II) in 2006 for his excellent services to the industry. Fun Fact: Gordon Ramsay gets a kick out naming animals after famous celebrities. Six turkeys he raised were names after celebrity chefs: Anthony Worrall Thompson, Ainsley Hariott, Jamie Oliver, Delia Smith, Gary Rhodes and Nigella Lawson.
be a Manchester United member and win a trip to Old Trafford
Subscribe to the Manchester United Membership Card and enjoy an array of incredible benefits and experiences! To become a member, visit a VIVA stores and apply for the Membership package at only BD 29/season for VIVA subscribers and BD 39/season for non-VIVA subscribers. • 4 places to fly with the first team to watch Manchester United play in Europe • 4 chances to meet the new manager, David Moyes • 30 opportunities to watch the Reds play a match at Old Trafford • 10 opportunities to watch the first team train in Carrington • 10 autographed shirts by 11 first team players For more information, visit viva.com.bh Terms and conditions apply.
What’s On
Missed Not To Be
For more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 112 - 117
Faulty Towers The Dining Experience
BBC’s most loved sitcom returns to Bahrain. Faulty towers, the authentic British humour will open with a black-tiegala- dinner charity fundraiser in support of the RIA Institute. The show will be held at the British Embassy under the patronage of HE Iain Lindsay. So, wear your best outfit and get ready for some ingenious comedy. Trust us, we attended the last show and it was brilliant. It is definitely worth going to. When: 20th November to 3rd December Where: The shows will be at the InterContinental Regency Hotel. There will be one show at the Dilmun Club on 1st December. Price: From BD30 For more information, visit: www.faultytowers.bh Contact Punchline Media at info@punchlineme.com, or call, Tel. +973 3666 3509.
Bahrain Road Runners 2013- 2014 Events Season It’s almost time for Bahrain Road Runners newest event season. This year’s Grand Prix Series will start at the Al Ghous Corniche. Registration has begun and if you think you are ready for this season’s Bahrain Road Runners, you know what to do. Check out their events, register and take part! Online registration closes on 4th November (midnight). 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Date 8/11/2013 15/11/2013 22/11/2013 13/12/2013 10/1/2014 7/2/2014 7/3/2014 4/4/2014 2/5/2014 23/5/2014
Event Grand Prix 5km Grand Prix 10km Grand Prix 15km Cross Island Half Marathon Full Marathon Al Areen Olympic Tri Sprint Tri Double Super Sprint
For more details, please log on to www.bahrainroadrunners.com.bh
12 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Facial C At Felda are C & Style ut
30% OFF
Avail of with any B ra aftercare & zilian Blowout For more styling products informatio n call Tel. +973 1722 407 on 7.
Chuckle Club Celebrates
Can you believe it? Its’ already been a year. That’s right. Chuckle Club celebrates its first birthday. And they have an extremely fun lineup just for this occasion, Mark Dolan, Jojo Smith, Martin Mor and Dan Nightingale. The best is yet to come! When: 6th November- Bahrain Rugby Club 7th November - British Club 8th November - InterContinental Regency Hotel Price: BD15 For more details, email: sales@punchlinemedia.me or call, Tel. +973 3666 3509.
Al Nahda Charity Boutique The Al Nahda Charity Boutique is staging a designer sale to raise funds for abused women. What a great cause! Money spent is definitely put to good use.
When: 2nd to 9th November Time: 10am - 1pm on Saturday 8.30am - 1.30pm and 4pm to 7pm on Sunday For more details, call, Tel. +973 1726 2237.
What’s On
Missed Not To Be
For more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 112 - 117 Snowflake Craft Fair
Poppy Ball
The British Bahrain Business Forum (BBBF) with BBA is proud to present the "Poppy Ball". It’s time to dance the night away. Your dress code for the well-awaited evening is Cocktail Dresses for the ladies and Dinner Suits (Black Tie) or National Dress for the men.
The American Women’s Association (AWA) is all set to host the annual Snowflake Craft Fair. The fair will be a wonderful shopping experience for people selling unique handmade products. There will also be an AWA Craft Table and Bake Shop selling items prepared and donated by AWA members. Don’t miss out on this spectacular shopping experience.
Where: Crowne Plaza Hotel When: 7th November Time: 7pm onwards Price: BD30/person for members and partners, BD35/person for non-members
When: 30th November Where: Ambassador Suite Ballroom, Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Time: 11am - 4pm Price: This charity entrance is 500 fils and free for children below five years.
Tickets can be purchased form the British Club (Sunday - Saturday - 9am until 9pm), The Bookcase in Budaiya (9am to 8pm Sunday to Thursday and 10am to 2pm on Friday).
For more information, contact: craftfair@awabahrain.org or call, Tel. +973 3888 4924.
For more information, email: bbbfevents@batelco.com.bh
WEC 6 Hours of Bahrain
Get ready for an amazing weekend of endurance racing. World Endurance Championship (WEC) is headed to Bahrain this November. For the second year running, BIC will host the event that gets all motorsport lovers excited. This year it gets even better. The 6 Hours of Bahrain is the WEC’s eighth round and its grand finale, letting fans predict who will be crowned champions for 2013. A promotion gives six lucky fans a chance to win amazing prizes. Every ticket will be entered into a draw and
stands a chance to win a Ford MustangThe Grand Prize! Where: Bahrain International Circuit Price: BD20 for adults and BD10 for children aged three to twelve. When: 29th and 30th November. For more details, or to buy your ticket, log on to www.bahraingp.com, and through BIC’s official Facebook page. Call BIC hotline, Tel. +973 1745 0000.
Nadine Gallery
Nadine Gallery’s Annual Exhibition for Bahraini Female Artists
The annual exhibition by Nadine Gallery featuring Bahraini female artists is definitely one for your calendar. There will be lots to look forward to. Art, talks, workshops, distinguished guests, and an amazing artist line up. The exhibition will be held under the patronage of Ministry of Culture in the Art Centre, exhibiting more than 35 artists. When: 20th to 30th November Venue: Nadine Gallery, Arts Centre, Bahrain For more information, contact: +973 3952 0200 or email: events@bfaexhibition.com
Jewellery Arabia 2013
Jewellery Arabia is right around the corner. It will showcase world famous names and artisan designs from across the globe. Be there for the 22nd Middle East International Jewellery and Watch Exhibition. When: 19th to 23rd November Where: Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre
Turn to page 20 for further events (Save the date in New in Bahrain). 14 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Find us on Find us on Find Find us us on on
Celebrate Celebrate the the Festive Festive Season Season Celebrate in in Style! Style! the Festive Season in Style!
Create unrivalled memories with family and friends during the holiday Create unrivalled with family andRoyal friends during season by paying amemories visit to the award-winning Golf Club.the Joinholiday us for season by paying a visit to the award-winning Royal Golf Club. Join us the for a traditional Christmas Day or New Year’s Day carvery lunch with all Create unrivalled unrivalled memories memories with with family family and and friends friends during during the the holiday holiday Create a traditional Christmas Day or New Year’s carvery lunch with all the trimmings or indulge in our spectacular NewDay Year’s Eve set dinner. season by paying a to the Royal Golf Club. Join season by or paying a visit visit to spectacular the award-winning award-winning RoyalEve Golfset Club. Join us us for for trimmings indulge in our New Year’s dinner. a traditional Christmas Day or New Year’s Day carvery lunch with all the a traditional Christmas Day or New Year’s Day carvery lunch with all the Christmas Day Lunchin our spectacular BD 29 net perYear’s personEve ^ set dinner. trimmings or indulge New trimmings indulge in our spectacular New dinner. drink Christmas Day Lunch 29 net ^ set New Year’sor Eve Dinner BD 36 perYear’s personEve inc. welcome EveLunch Dinner 36 New Year’sDay Day Lunch BD 29 net per person ^inc. Christmas BD 29 net per person ^^ welcome drink Christmas Day Lunch BD 29 net per person New Year’s Day Lunch BD 29 net per person ^inc. welcome drink New Year’s Eve Dinner BD 36 per person New Year’s Eveavailable Dinner so book BDearly 36 net net per person inc. welcome drink Limited places by calling +973 New Year’s Day Lunch BD 29 net per person ^^ 17 750777 today! New Year’s Day Lunch BD 29 net per person Limited places available so book early by calling +973 17 750777 today! Member’s discount applies. ^ Includes unlimited selected beverages. Limited places available so book early calling +973 Limited bookunlimited early by byselected callingbeverages. +973 17 17 750777 750777 today! today! Member’splaces discountavailable applies. ^ so Includes Member’s Member’s discount discount applies. applies. ^^ Includes Includes unlimited unlimited selected selected beverages. beverages.
The Royal Golf Club website is The RoyaltoGolf is available youClub 24/7website all year availableKeep to you all year round. up 24/7 to date with The Royal Golf website is The Royal GolfupClub Club is round. Keep date with everything going ontoatwebsite the Club, available to you 24/7 all year available to you 24/7 all year everything goingoffers on atand the news, Club, view our latest round. Keep up to date with round. up dateofnews, with view ourKeep offers and reserve alatest table into any our everything going on at the Club, everything going on at the Club, reserve a table in your any next of our restaurants or book tee view our latest offers and news, view offers and news, restaurants or book your next tee time. our latest reserve reserve a a table table in in any any of of our our time. restaurants restaurants or or book book your your next next tee tee www.theroyalgolfclub.com time. www.theroyalgolfclub.com time.
www.theroyalgolfclub.com www.theroyalgolfclub.com
Events
otions November’salPGrolofm Club At The Roy
Call, Tel. +973 17 751262 to reserve your table. *Members’ discount applies.
November Dining Promotions Kids Eat Free At Links & Prego Restaurants For every adult main course ordered, a child can enjoy a dish from the kids menu free. When: Every Saturday from Midday to 3pm Happy Hour At Links Restaurant Discounts on a wide range of selected beverages. When: Daily from 5pm to 7pm Poretti Promotion At Prego Restaurant For every adult main course or pizza ordered, receive a free bottle of Poretti. When: Every Sunday from 6pm to 8pm
Dining Delights From Around The World Book your next party, meeting or event at the Royal Golf Club and you and your palate can travel the world all in one day! The newly introduced banqueting menus include exotic African dishes such as Mozambique fish curry with roasted peanuts and flatbread or paprika infused Nile perch with red cabbage and truffle butter. South American specialities include Argentinian chimichurri beef steak with grilled onions while there are some delicious sounding European dishes such as Portuguese calamari stew with olives and onions. Many more traditional options are also available including Dijon lamb chops with lemon zest and garlic, turkey medallions with sweet potatoes and horseradish crème and orange and juniper duck breast. The accompanying side dishes also draw on flavours from around the world including potato and truffle oil croquettes, buttered German spätzle and Swahili coconut rice. Round off your banquet with mouthwatering desserts such as French strawberry mille-feuille, South African malva pudding with caramel sauce or the decadent orange and cream cheese cannoli from Italy.
New Friday Brunch Packages
November Golf Events
Create unrivalled memories with your family and friends at the Royal Golf Club’s awardwinning Links Friday Carvery Feast where you can now choose between an unlimited selected soft drinks package for just BD18 net* per person and an option which includes unlimited selected beverages of all types for only BD27 net* per person. Children under twelve cost just BD9.5 net* each inclusive of soft drinks and children under the age of 4 eat for free. There’s even a crèche for youngsters, costing just BD2 per child, giving mum and dad the chance to enjoy the spectacular food at their leisure.
Wee Monty Family Day – only BD15 per adult, kids play free! Inclusive of green fee and hire clubs. Tee times from 10am to 2pm. Open to all. When: Every Saturday Ecco Monday Stableford. 1.30pm shotgun. Open to all. When: Every Monday Monday Madness Night Golf Series – different format each week. 6.30pm shotgun. Open to all. When: Every Monday
For further information on all above events and offers call Tel. +973 1775 0777 or visit www.theroyalgolfclub.com
16 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
New In Town Keizo Al Areen
Your New Dining Venues Saffron Al Areen & Keizo
Al Areen Palace & Spa has opened two new restaurants. For all the Arabic food lovers, Saffron- Al Areen Bahraini – Khaleeji Cuisine is your definite choice. With beautiful high ceiling and exquisite Arabic interiors, this restaurant overlooks the hotel’s majestic outdoor pool. Saffron introduces a new range of menus inspired by Bahraini dishes blended with Khaleeji fusion. It’s definitely mouth watering! Keizo Al Areen takes you through a gastronomic feast with its new Far Eastern dining concept. With its sleek oriental inspired atmosphere, its definitely one that is going to impress. It features a luxurious range of Japanese, Thai and Chinese dishes. Let’s just say it is a combination of classic to contemporary with a flair of creativity. For more information, visit www.alareenpalace.com
Ssai
Ssai
If you love ethnic accessories, handicrafts and innovative home décor pieces, then this is the thing for you. SSai offers a wide range of accessories including leather and cloth bags, jewellery baskets, make up kits, cloth folders, wallets, door name plates, wall hangings, piggy banks, show pieces and more. The prints are primarily influenced by Alpana designs that are a specialty of the beautiful City of Joy – Kolkata. What’s best is that these are reasonably priced too! To place your order, drop a message on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ SSaidesign
New In
Town Bahrain Confidential fills you in on the
who, what, why, when and where in Bahrain!
EMMS Tutorial Classes & DayCare
Qualified tutor with eight of years of experience in teaching available. Can teach students from Grade 1 to 8 for all curricula, at very reasonable fee. Satisfaction guaranteed! Currently running classes in Riffa, Hajiyat. Timings are from 4pm to 6pm/5pm to 7pm. For further information contact, Tel. +973 3401 5236 or visit Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/pages/EMMSTutorial-classes-and-daycare/519034814857321
AMOUAGE Expands
Amouage, everyone’s favourite perfume opened its second standalone shop in Bahrain housing Amouage’s range of fragrances and complementary collections including Bath & Body, Home, Travel Accessories and Leather Goods. The shop is elegant with clean cut ivory style furnishings and a gold leaf Murano glass feature. Everything in the store represents the brand’s timeless sophistication.
The Artistic Journey
In 2013, Lucia launched a new artistic activity, painting sea stones of volcanic origin that comes from a tiny island in the south of Italy, known as Alicudi. By painting these sea stones, she blends her creativity together with the magic of this place. Today, along with her other artistic activities, Art Stone Jewels is Lucia’s new way of expressing her creativity. Her creations are bought as special gifts for weddings, birthdays or simply by private collectors who adore her art. Go find her at Jewellery Arabia and be amazed!
18 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
New In Town Browse, Plan, Record and Share
OSN launches the ultimate TV Guide app. You can now have the complete viewing experience in the palm of your hand. With just a touch, subscribers can browse the TV Guide, watch the latest trailers and record their favourite entertainment – all from their iPad. To download the OSN Guide application, simply visit the App Store from your iPad and search for OSN. The App is free and available to both OSN subscribers and everyone else. The OSN Guide App allows users to - add channels to a favourites list for quick access, search for a programme by name (or partial name), view a short summary about each show, set Remote Record and also send Reminder Alerts for programmes. The app will be available in Arabic soon. To test the OSN TV Guide App, please visit https://itunes.apple.com/ae/app/osn-tv-guide/id633388699
“I Trust You” by Athar
After Athar’s first initiative, “The Value Show”, which presented the values in Fashion Show in a different way, they came up with a new concept in Al A’ali Mall. The new concept, “Sale By Trust”, sees Athar T-Shirts in a wagon in Al A’ali Mall ground floor, without a salesman!! YES, without a salesman. That’s the concept, because it depends 100 percent on the trust of customers. Jaafar Hamza, the Creative Manager and Owner says, “We were inspired by Ahmad AlShugairi in his Ramadan programme, “Khwater 9”. So, all you have to do, is select the T-Shirt you want, pay the cost of that T-Shirt in the Payment box, and that’s all. Follow Athar on Instagram: atharfashion
SAVE THE DATE Behbehani Brothers Used Car Roadshow
If you are interested in test driving a selection of over 50 used cars that include Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Chrysler, Ram, Jeep and Dodge,this is your EVENT! Come along, enjoy the view and take your dream baby out for a drive! For more information, call Behbehani Brothers: Tel. +973 1745 9999. Where: Exhibition Centre, Sanabis When: 8th November Time: 9am to 5pm
The Autumn Fair
The annual Autumn Fair is finally here. Enjoy your evening with a variety of goods, and plenty of games for both children and adults.
For more information or booking, call, Tel. +973 1772 8245. Where: The British Club When: 8th November Time: 2pm to 6pm
Gatsby Dinner
Get your spats and dresses out and join everyone for a Gatsby themed night of jazz with Anna Thompson Hall of the Manama Singers in aid of Tony the Dogfather’s Animal Rescue Centre. All profits go towards animal welfare. Book NOW! Where: Upstairs Downstairs When: 8th November Time: 7pm Price: BD20 inclusive of buffet dinner
The Autumn Fair
MARKET 338 is BACK!
MARKET 338, Bahrain’s most loved artistic market is back. Featuring the work of local and regional artists and designers with a special focus on Bahrain circa 1950. Live music performances, designer talks and workshops will also be there. Where: Block 338 Area When: 28th November to 14th December daily For more details, contact, Tel. +973 1771 7441, or email: info@alriwaqartspace.com
MARKET 338
Gatsby Dinner
20 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Tickets are available at Upstairs Downstairs or Tony the Dogfather’s Animal Rescue and Rehabilition Centre page on Facebook. Or call, Tel. +973 3995 64585.
Art Space
A
hmed Emam, an Egyptian artist solidified his young curiosity for art with a degree in Fine Arts from the Graphics Department at Egypt in 2003, followed by a Graphic Art Pre-Masters degree in 2006. Since early 2004, Emam has been a practicing artist, a graphic and interior designer. He is a well-experienced lecturer, and was a resident of several technical printmaking workshops in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. He has participated in over 60 local and international exhibitions. He has organised and directed more than 40 exhibitions. He founded and supervised many printmaking studios, art halls, and artist exhibitions. He directed the artist exhibitions for Saudi Aramco’s cultural programme in 2011. Equipped with this extensive background and experience in the field of graphic art, Emam is now in charge of running the Nasser Al Yousif Printmaking Studio.
22 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Art Space
Emam is a member of two prominent organisations that foster the arts and culture in Egypt: the Union of Egyptian Artists and the Egyptian Society of Fine Arts & Graphic Art.
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 23
Art Space
The story behind Nasser Al Yousif Printmaking Studio (NYPS) It always starts with a person and a story. Nasser Al Yousif (1940-2006) was a Bahraini artist and a printmaking pioneer. The printmaking studio was built to commemorate, celebrate, and honor his memory. NYPS is a printmaking workshop space that offers a wide range of facilities for intaglio, mono, relief, screen-printing and lithography. The creative space is open to beginners with an interest in picking up a new skill, professionals already in practice, and everyone in between. NYPS hosts a newly restored 1982 Japanese printing press machine that was previously owned and used by Nasser Al Yousif in his creative process. NYPS aims to support artists, amateurs, professionals, hobbyists, and even creative businesses by providing an accessible and affordable studio space with the right people to foster artistic skills and channel creativity to produce prints. There is something for everyone, workshops that explore a technique or two, as well as general arts and crafts workshops as well as a series of children’s workshops for the little ones. “NYPS” is located at Albareh premises. For more information, email: art@albareh.com or ahmed@albareh.com Tel. +973 1771 7707.
“NYPS” is one of the programmes of ABCAD (Albareh Centre for Art and Design)
24 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Poetry
d o o w y l l o David H When we are troubled by fears of menace and what might overcome us in our lives - whether actual or imagined - can anything compare to the reality of nature’s wrath?
David Hollywood
Storm
As yearning tides search for your shore, And heave through oceans bound, They head towards the gales that roar, Upon the coasts they’ve found.
And turbulence from tempests gusts, Which reigns upon the swirl, Sets squalls in flight of thunder’s might, In winds that pitch and hurl.
And as they push to rush and gush, En route to lands they’ve flown, The ebbs that flow to surge and swell, Shall rage on seas now blown.
The waves which clash to smite and crash, Displaying nature’s wrath, Show dread as mayhem’s storms impasse, Grows wild on rocks they smash.
David Hollywood
26 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Thank
You
American Mission Hospital
thanks the sponsors of the 16th Annual
Island Classic Charity Golf Tournament
Platinum Sponsor
Emerald Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Hole Sponsors
Sheer Luxury
BD417
Versace Bracelet
BD266 Lanvin Woven Nubuck High Top Sneakers at mrporter.com
r’s o t i Ed
TOP s! Pick
What
Neil Barrett Wool Blazer at mrporter.com
BD151
Men want Versace Handbag
Lanvin Cashmere & Silk Blend Scarf at mrporter.com
Mulberry Leather Trimmed Nylon Holdall Bag at mrporter.com
28 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Versace Boots
All Versace products are from the Fall-Winter 2013 collection. Available at the Versace Boutique, MODA Mall. Prices available on request for items where prices are not mentioned,
Sheer Luxury
Tag Heuer
Tag Heuer Link Lady Trilogy 2013 Collection BD2,617
Go Diva! Chanel Sous le Signe du Lion Bracelet BD243,112
BD35,299 Chanel Sous le Signe du Lion Chain
BD18,527
BD119,426 Chanel Sous le Signe du Earrings
Chanel Sous le Signe du Lion Bracelet
Chanel All products available at luxury stores across Bahrain. 30 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Cameron Diaz wearing the Tag Heuer link Lady Trilogy 2013 Collection
People
Leaders In Bahrain
Bahrain Confidential talks to some of the best names in the island’s hospitality sector. Garfield Jones
GULF HOTEL
Deputy Chief Executive Officer What’s your history? I was born and brought up in West Wales. After graduating from college I joined a hotel chain which allowed me to travel. I spent two years as F&B manager in Gambia and then four years in a hotel in Nigeria. I joined the Gulf Hotel in 1995. Is there any advice that you were given early on that you still apply to your working day? One of my first GM’s lived by the saying the ‘Early bird catches the worm’. To this day I’m at my desk by 6am as it gives me a good two hours of peace and quiet to allow me to catch up and organise my day without any distractions. Please put in order of importance for a hotel industry personnel – looks & grooming, interpersonal skills, qualification in hospitality Without a doubt it is interpersonal skills, the ability to interact with other staff and guests is so important in terms of delivering the standards we want. Least important is probably qualifications – you don’t always need qualifications to be successful. We have a young Bahraini guy at the K Hotel that started as a waiter and now he’s our Director of Sales and Marketing. Looks are a bonus but don’t guarantee you success. What sets your hotels apart from others in Bahrain? The Gulf Hotel has nine fine dining restaurants all under one roof, all of which have great reputations. The K Hotel which is also part of our group, is a four star hotel with five star standards, but within the four star price range. How would you describe yourself as a boss? I would like to think that the job is about enabling others to do their jobs better. In all your years of being on the ‘shop floor’ have you encountered difficult guests and how did you deal with them? I was working as a duty manager in London and a guest didn’t have a reservation and we were full. He was exceptionally annoyed to the point that he grabbed my tie, dragged me across the desk and said ‘Son you had better goddamn build me a room!’ Of course I wasn’t able to oblige! Can we expect anything new with the Gulf Hotel in the coming months? A new commercial laundry, a new men’s and ladies spa, the full refurbishment of our South Wing rooms and Gulf Executive Residence and the addition of our tenth restaurant, an Indian Restaurant with a twist.
32 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
PRECISELY ELEGANT.
DARYA KLISHINA
When the occasion is truly special, Darya Klishina wears this delightful dress watch. With 5 bar water resistance, blue hands and cabochon crown, it is as durable as it is refined. seikowatches.com
People
Olivier Briand General Manager
FRASER SUITES
You started your career in F&B; how different is that from what you currently do; how is leading a team in F&B different from leading one in your current position? Leading a team in F&B is a preparation for the challenges and responsibilities of the operation of a hotel. In fact, it doesn’t actually matter what business you are in when you lead a team – what is important is interaction. Communication is always a challenge and needs to be focused on. I personally take time to get to know people. Understand where they are coming from, what is important to them and then make sure they are with me for the journey. Any moment in your career so far that you will always cherish? It is not a moment but a process establishing and growing Frasers brand in Bahrain. We strive to be a true home from home. To that end, we are continuously developing products and services to meet the unique needs of our guests. Whether they are using us for a weekend break, business trip while attending conferences & meetings or for an extended stay, our guests all experience what we call “The Fraser Difference”. Those little bespoke touches that make our apartment hotel feel like home. This quest for excellence has earned our brand numerous awards, testimony to the strength of our belief in delivering total customer satisfaction. Any fun experience or incident that you can recall and would like to share? We once had an American actor (name withheld on request) who was our guest; he loves M&Ms and requested for them to be kept in every corner of his room the condition being that there shouldn’t be any blue coloured M&Ms.
What is your idea of a perfect home and do you execute this idea at Fraser Suites? A perfect home is where you can feel at ease. At any Frasers Hospitality property throughout the world, impeccable service is a given. The Fraser Difference goes beyond expectation in a way that is almost intuitive. For some guests, it’s the way we feed their goldfish or water their plants while they’re overseas. For others, it’s arranging pillows and slippers the way they like them. Thanks to our well trained and dedicated housekeeping staff, they all receive our utmost care and attention.
34 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Any surprises in the pipeline, for Fraser Suites? Yes! Next year, we have properties opening up in Riyadh; also in Dubai and Doha and the rest of the world. It will be a new challenge for us. Your idea of a dream home? As a child I grew up at the seaside, therefore my love for the waves, sand and salt, the smell and the passion of it. As I am into gardening too, I would like to settle somewhere near water in a cozy house with a small garden providing me with fresh herbs and vegetables to serve some delicious meals to close friends on a big table.
Doğtaş KidsLand Creating an imaginative environment for your child. P.O. Box 70157 | Sitra | Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 7701 6600 | Fax: +973 1791 1098 | Mobile: +973 3605 8114 Location: Riffa and Enma Mall Website: www.dogtas.com
People
Samy Boukhaled General Manager
SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA
What makes Bahrain a fantastic tourist destination in terms of hospitality? For people or tourists who have never been to Bahrain; this island will surprise you. Bahrain has state-of-the-art infrastructure and much more! For any place to become a tourist destination, a large percentage depends on the hospitality. Bahrain scores really well as the people are very welcoming and friendly. It has a lot of assets to be proud of. Now all we need to do is to show the world what Bahrain’s luxury sector is capable of. What qualities should a good General Manager possess? A good General Manager must be close to his team. You cannot run a hotel from your your office. You need to build a relationship with your employees and guests. Each day, I make it a point to interact with as many customers as I can because at the end of the day, a happy customer means happy business.
What are you most proud of at Sofitel? It would definitely be our Thalassa. It is the only spa in the GCC that offers seawater treatments. We use seawater for most of our Thalassa treatments.This is one of our major selling points. We also offer traditional spa treatments such as the hot stone massage, the Shaitsu Massage, and the Abhyanga Massage. Then, there is Family Leisure. We have the Kids Club where regular fun filled activities take place that includes the entire family and involves learning and creativity. What is your idea of dream hotel? My dream hotel is to build a Royal Chateau, which will have villas. There will be a limited number of villas, say about ten. Each suite/ villa will have a private butler and let’s just say, it will be luxury at its best. Favourite holiday destination. My favourite destination is undoubtedly France. You know what they say, ‘Home is where the heart is’. My other favourites are New York and Kenya. Does Sofitel have any interesting future plans? Yes, definitely. We are focusing on Sofitel in the Middle East. We aim to open a Sofitel in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, that should hopefully be up and running by April 2014.
36 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
People
THE DOMAIN BAHRAIN
the end of the day, we are in the PEOPLE business – and business creation is a very organic process. Does your role vary from time to time? If yes, then why so? Now, we’re going through a transition where the last physical components of the Domain are being brought to life and so now my role is more about operations management; it’s more focused on selling the product – filling those rooms and those chairs in the restaurants and lounges. My team needs to make that switch too and they are doing it well thanks to their rich experience.
Patrick de Groot Managing Director
What kind of a leader would you call yourself? I guess I am somewhat of an unconventional leader; I don’t believe in strong hierarchical organizations, I much prefer to create a team around me that works together on equal footing. This is not always easy to instill as majority of the people in this part of the world are used to working with strong hierarchical companies; the hospitality industry is a typical example of this. But at The Domain we try and instill a different set of values. Tell us about your role at The Domain? I come from a corporate office background, in which I mostly dealt with hotel management at a top level. Managing an actual hotel operation is very different, as you get exposed to such a wide variety of different issues, which requires a very different approach. It’s very hands-on and something I was actually looking forward to. The last two years have all been about developing concept and product. Now it is all about bringing vision to life, about actually operating the social club and hotel we developed. It is important to have a vision. I surrounded myself with a small team of former colleagues to create all the different aspects of The Domain. Communicating and explaining the concept to a growing team of colleagues that now need to bring this concept to life has been real rewarding. In
38 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Tell our readers more about The Domain and its brand personality. It’s Social, Social, Social! Although we have created what may appear to be a high-end boutique hotel, we are first and foremost a Social Club. The offering or social spaces at The Domain is what makes us different. Guests STAYing at The Domain have so much to choose from, whether they look for a place to WORK or PLAY. We aim for a price positioning that is affordable, NOT expensive. Of course there is items on the menu that are more expensive, too, but we know that we can cater to a smaller purse, too. What’s new at The Domain? IMARI – our contemporary Japanese restaurant is opening as we speak, and I – for one – am super excited about this place. It combines a more formal restaurant with a very casual, comfortable lounge. The food – prepared by resident Japanese chefs and served Izakaya style (ideal for sharing between friends) is going to be talked about …. a lot, I hope! If you had to create a dish after yourself what would it be and what would you name it? What an interesting question! Let me think … Yesterday, I tried a new dish in IMARI Crispy Rock Shrimps. That dish fit me like a glove. It’s simple in ingredients (Japanese tempura prawn, Korean kimchee mayonnaise and young romaine lettuce), deliciously complex in the way these ingredients are mixed together, very social, as in “easy to share among friends”, and multi-cultural. At home I enjoy spending time in the kitchen with my family. My wife is half Vietnamese, half Korean and grew up in the Middle East. I come from the Netherlands, and trained as a chef for a number of years, so we cook and eat food from all over the world and often you find dishes from different cuisines side by side on our dining table. My favourite dishes would have to be – somehow – named after the girls in my life, my wife Sencha and my daughters Chloé and Jade.
JAPANESE DISHES TO SHARE. SOCIAL EATING AT IMARI, A COOL COSMOPOLITAN MIX OF RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE AT THE DOMAIN BAHRAIN. OPEN EVERY EVENING FROM 6PM. FOR RESERVATIONS CALL +973 16 000 333 WWW.THEDOMAINHOTELS.COM
At The Domain, Diplomatic Area, Manama, Bahrain /thedomainbahrain
@domainbahrain
@domainbahrain
People
RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA
Shantharam Shetty Group General Manager
What is your view of the hotel industry in Bahrain and where do you see it a few years from now? With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector and 18 years of experience in Bahrain alone, I am quite confident of the market. There will always be ups and downs in any industry. The trick is to understand how to stay successful through it all. So, it is safe to say that the hospitality sector will be good and challenging. There is so much competition in the hospitality business. What sets your hotel apart from the others? Ramee Group is known for being on field at all times. You will notice the management always out interacting with the guests and making sure that their visit is memorable and exciting.
40 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
In today’s world, we need to constantly upgrade ourselves. That is why every year, you will notice changes in our hotels, however big or small the change is, you will notice them. What skills do you think a good GM requires? According to me, a good General Manager, must know how to handle his team. He must be able to satisfy the requirements of his employees and at the same time be diplomatic. What does Ramee Group have in store for the future? We are currently working towards upgrading our existing property, that is Ramee International Hotel in Juffair. We intend on expanding the hotel and changing it from a 4 star to a 5 Star Hotel.
Do you love travelling? What is your favourite holiday destination? Yes, I love travelling. I make it a point to take my family on holidays at least twice a year. My favourite destination has to be France. It’s breathtakingly beautiful. My next holiday destination is Switzerland. What is your favourite sport? I have to say Volleyball. Though I do not play it that often now, I remember how much I loved playing volleyball when I was growing up. A message to our readers? Keep doing your best. Results and rewards will surely follow.
N G SIN C E 1 9 1 2
Mobile booking allows to make reservation for your car, anytime, anywhere on your smart phone, globally.
Download mobile application
Car Rental Car & Van Leasing Commercial Vehicle Leasing International car rental in 105 countries Limousine Services local & International
Sixt Services
M O VI
sixt-bahrain
sixtbh
www.youtube.com/ SixtBahrain
Meet & Greet Service with Car rental / Limousine Service at Bahrain International Airport Airport Transfer Inter City Transfer V.I.P Transfer Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Transfers Limousine service on standard & premium vehicles at hourly basis
sixtbh
Wedding Limo Services Corporate rates available Gated Community Mobility Services Staff Transportation School Transportation & Limo Services GPRS & WIFI enabled on all cars Tailor-made Rental Packages All brands available under one roof
Head Office : Tel : 17 40 80 00 - Fax : 17 40 07 61 - Email: lloyd@sixtbahrain.com Airport Road : Tel : 17 32 93 38 - Fax : 17 32 93 18 - Email:airport@sixtbahrain.com Exhibition Road : Tel : 17 71 17 70 - Fax : 17 71 17 66 - Email:sales@sixtbahrain.com Juffair : Tel : 17 71 81 91 - Fax : 17 71 17 66 - Email: juffair@sixtbahrain.com kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre Tel: 17 171436 - Fax: 17 329318 - Email:kempinski@sixtbahrain.com
Think Mobility... Think Sixt.
Bin Hindi Transport Co.
People Michael Koth
General Manager & Regional General Manager – Bahrain & Kuwait Tell us more about yourself as a person and how does this influence your leadership style? I have been raised in a family of hoteliers. Having worked in both my home country, Germany and outside it, I’ve realised that service culture and working with people and for people has no boundaries. We celebrate the differences that people bring and seek. My leadership style therefore is an inclusive one based on cooperation, guidance and creation of consensus. We always strive for a win-win situation where the business, the guests and the colleagues must win. Which is your favourite spot at InterContinental Regency Bahrain? The Elements Pool & Lounge is my favourite because we’ve created it with simplicity in mind. The focus is on the art of mixing drinks, the music but foremost the guests - not the luxury furnishing. If you had to change one thing about InterContinental Regency Bahrain, what would it be? If I had to change one thing, it would be the easier accessibility to the hotel. InterContinental Regency Bahrain has the advantage of proximity to Bab Al Bahrain and King Faisal Highway; I would like to create our own private and hassle-free road for the convenience of our guests. What do you believe Bahrain needs to further pep-up its tourism sector? Bahrain already focusses on guests from the Eastern province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; but it also needs to think about who else can help the industry grow. We are potentially isolating ourselves from a broad perspective of incoming guests. One possible sector could be the wealthy travellers from fast-developing nations (i.e. China). Bahrain is becoming a destination of interest for these visitors. They may not be coming in large numbers today but demographics show that they will travel extensively in the coming years. What according to you are the qualities of a good hospitality manager? It’s very important for a hospitality manager to be dedicated, able to understand guests’ needs and offer something of his/her personality to provide sincere and meaningful experience. Always strive to look out for new ways to improve your service offerings.
INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN
42 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Please share your thoughts about Bahrain, with us? I am privileged to return to Bahrain 18 years after my first son had been born here. Our love for Bahrain has made us come back after decades of international travel and jobs with InterContinental Hotels Group elsewhere. Bahrain makes you feel at home and this is the same experience that our team at the hotel strives to offer to our guests.
People
Pascal Eggerstedt General Manager
According to you what are the skills a good General Manager must possess? Firstly, one needs to have a real passion for providing hospitality, for business and people. A good General Manager must also have good interpersonal skills to keep guests, owners and of course team members happy. Providing your team an environment that is motivating and growth oriented is extremely important. General Managers in the hospitality industry wear many hats everyday and so the ability to multitask is essential. Do you host many difficult guests; a particular instance that you’d like to share? Rather than ‘difficult’ guests, I’d say ‘perceptive’ guests; these are the ones who observe differences and have excellent
44 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
taste or judgment as opposed to simply being hard to please or satisfy. Many a time when guests bring something to our attention it’s because their expectations haven’t been met. It is not only all about meeting expectations but rather exceeding them, which is why at Crowne Plaza Bahrain we are constantly training our team to understand our guests better. What are you most proud of within Crowne Plaza Bahrain? We take pride in our hotel being one of the earliest and well known business hotels on the island with a rich history and heritage and at the same time being able to reinvent ourselves to keep up with the current trends and opportunities. It’s a great feeling when guests tell us that they had a memorable stay at our hotel. One of our key focuses is growth, development and career opportunities for our team, especially the local talent. Some of the Bahrainis at our hotel have been working with us for over 30 years! We’re more than colleagues; we’re a family.
Can we expect any new surprises from Crowne Plaza Bahrain? Absolutely! One of the main highlights of this year is the full refurbishment of one of our wings. Also, brand new rooms will be launched in the market, this month. These rooms are designed with muted color palettes and an eclectic mix of stylish modern furniture and rich fabrics, reminiscent of the hotel’s business heritage - but complete with 21st-century technology. What do you think makes Bahrain a fantastic tourist destination in the context of hospitality? An island rich in history, culture and heritage, Bahrain is truly a unique place in the region. It is modern and cosmopolitan but with a great feel of the Arabic culture. I believe that the many archaeological sites, architecture, art and also the sports events ranging from Formula One and Horse Racing to Golf and Boating makes it the place to be. It’s a great shopping destination too! In short, Bahrain is a regional and world class business and tourist destination!
NO ONE KNOWS YOUR DRIVING PASSION LIKE ALLIED
Diva’s
THE KATTAN SISTERS
Kattan sisters, they truly believe that an overall au naturel healthy look will always remain “in”.
Huda believes that you can never go wrong with a little black dress and simply loves the color black for an all purpose use. Mona stated that “being yourself” is the trend that outlasts all.
Junkie of the Accessories: We all love accessories, but many women find difficulty in really getting out there
and going bold in good fashion. These ladies have no
&
Fashion Trends
101
At the ever so fabulous exclusive fashion event last month the inauguration of the Autumn & Winter (A&W) 2013 fashion season commenced! Bahrain Confidential’s Zena Williams sat down with the American born Fashionistas Huda & Mona Kattan who now reside in Dubai and have built a reputation for being the region’s equivalent of the Kardashians.
Mona
Best Shopping Destinations
Mona professed her love for London. Huda said Hong Kong was a favourite, but what really tickled her fancy was shopping online!
Trends that never go out of style: Some trends never go out of style. Every woman is looking for that timeless piece, whether it is a fancy dress or a suitable hairstyle. For the
46 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Diva’s such hang up. Their take on accessories for A&W are to be daring and go big… perhaps with a “glamorous funky chunky statement necklace or a signature designer belt” as they described it. Are the Kattan sisters Accessory Junkies? Most definitely YES! When describing their go-to accessory, Mona vouched for a pair of sexy shades to snazz up a mediocre day, while Huda said that she usually couldn’t go without a hydrating and refreshing face spray.
AW 2013 Fashion Tip:
Their AW fashion tips for 2013 were along the lines of feminine florals for Huda while leathers provided a funky edge for Mona. In regards to beauty, BOLD Brows and
glowing “dewy skin” are in said Huda while Mona encouraged women to utilize a nice rouge (HOT red) lipstick to create that sizzle. They both agreed that you could still be very trendy during the cooler months of the year.
The Love of Blogging: The Kattan sisters are not only fashion divas, they are also well known for blogging. When asked why they love blogging, Huda who is the most avid blogger replied by saying the following.
“I feel destined to help women be and feel beautiful; it makes me feel happy to be a part of other’s happiness and beauty”. Further to blogging for a reason, the sisters had this advice for all the new, up-and-coming bloggers. “Always stay
passionate, keep the passion alive and keep growing as a person” – Mona Kattan “You have to love what you do whatever it is. Don’t blog for the perks, but do it because it’s your passion” – Huda Kattan
Describe yourself in 3 Words: It is always fun to give advice but when asked to self evaluate; it proves to be a more difficult task.As role models of sprouting success in the fashion world, Huda and Mona were asked to describe themselves in three words: Huda: 1. Passionate 2. Beauty-Obsessed 3. Positive
Mona: Huda
1.Creative 2.Passionate 3.OCD - Perfectionist
Life’s Mantra: Huda – “Do what you were meant to do.
It’s the only way to give back to the world – and be passionate about what you do” Mona – “Karma, do good to the world and it will come back to you”
Definition of BEAUTY: Last but not least, since the Kattan sisters are beauty experts, they were asked how they personally defined real beauty.
They had a very simple answer, “Real beauty comes from within, and real beauty is someone who can be kind and peaceful”
LUXURY SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA HOTEL
Capital Minceur (Slimming Package) If you are in search for a healthy transformation, Bahrain Confidential has the answer right HERE!
The Capital Minceur (slimming) package helps you look and feel better, with consultations from health experts and treatments that you will love- 11 individual hydrotherapy sessions, four wraps, three remodelling slimness treatments, three sessions of underwater jets and aqua gym, six sports sessions, it does not end here. Also available in this package is one body scrub,a relaxing sculpture and an active firmness treatment. Each treatment available in this package helps you become healthier and slimmer. If you ask us, it’s a WIN WIN! Single - BD1051 net Double - BD1647 net For bookings and more information, call, Tel. +973 1763 6363.
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 47
نوفمبر • 2٠١3العدد ١٠١ Issue 101 • November 13
المواحيث تسطع هب البحرينية BAHRAIN
دينــار بحـرينـي ١٠ريال سعودي دينـــار كويتــي
«فوغ دبي» ت الجديدة مستوحاة من الهند
أحمد زاير...
صوير البورتريه والعين تلتقط
الع
يوليو
e 100
سبتمبر
13 • 2013 tember • Sep e 99
أكتوبر
• 2٠١3 ber 13 • Octo
أهوى ت الصورة قبل الكاميرا
دد١٠٠
Issu
دينــار
AIN
بحـرينـي
BAHR
AIN
10ريال سعودي دي نـــار كويتــي
دينــار
ريـــال
بحـرينـي
عم ــاني 10
١٠ريال
ريــال ق
سعودي
طـــري 10
دي نـــار كويتــي
دراهــم إماراتية
ريـــال عم ــاني ١٠ ريــال ق طـــري ١٠ دراهــم إماراتية
ل يزر ON
TI
ا اللزاحل المثالي للOتخل...IN M ئد
ص من
الشعر
ريـــال
صح اب الم شاريع ومجال األزياء الجديدة مزدهر في ال بحرين
دراهــم
الشي خ خة فرح آل ادعم أليفة...
عم ــاني 10
ضة ال جمال ا لعربي ا
ألصيل
ريــال ق طـــري 10
الماك أحرص علىييمرة ناد ية زيد... واك وي بة المو فتتني
إماراتية
تنسى
الت
العائلية
إلى ذ كريات
ريال س عودي
“اكسك تراف لوسيف يل تحيل العط غروب”
د
قطان...
التدو ين جزء منا وال واعدة بحرين دولة في الجم ال وال موضة
ينـــار كو يتــي
ال
ا ألخوات
دينــار
BAHR
AIN
BAHR
بحـر ينـي 10
علي الحلواج جعفر...
ي وعلي
وصلنا إ لى أهدا و«إن فنا بال فنت" طموح شركة بح تدار ب رينية سواعد
ا
لعدد97
Issu
ا لعدد٩٩
Issu
• 2013 13 • July e 97
قطـــري ١٠دراهــم إماراتية ريـــال عمــاني ١٠ريــال
لولوة األمين...
جربة أثرت مشواري وتشكيلتي
�أم ريةودةحمم برايحنا ع د... ق وأنا وية لالع فنانة
مح ظوظة
مال البح
�ل�شيف الطهي شغ طارق �إب
رين ية الت
راثية
في وحماسي ك ر� هي لم... بير ت جاه «100 حمة» من ريةمالو�لع نع شق الج نولىد... و la نسعى إ abbel Ar
الع
المية
من خالل
People
by
ALLA
Walla Al Alawi has been a Bahrain-based designer since 2001. She began working from home with the abaya and presented her first collection in Dubai Fashion Week for Summer 2003. Since then Walla has built an immense presence in the Gulf through an exclusive clientele. Rebecca Smith sat down to find out what makes Walla tick. How did you become a fashion designer? As a child I would always have paper in my hands and sketch images of fashion. My father is also a lover of luxury brands and would buy my mother a lot of beautiful dresses. This is where I gained an understanding of fabrics, styles, embroidery and how they can make a difference to a look. When I was 11 years old my dad brought my mother a stunning dress from YSL and I felt it would look better as a skirt and top so I got the scissors and cut it into two pieces. My mother wasn’t impressed nor did she ever wear my creation. But that’s when my parents realised I had a talent in fashion. So I went to study in London where I was further
50 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
encouraged and learned about the industry. As a young girl did you observe how other women dressed? Yes, always. It didn’t matter if we were in a mall, coffee shop or restaurant. I would observe the style, fabric and colour combination and would amuse my mother by telling her how I could improve on a particular look. How would you describe your style? I love Arabic tradition but with a western twist. I started designing the abaya for myself as I wear them. Women in malls stopped me as they wanted to know where I had picked my abaya from. I started getting orders and
began using fabrics like Italian crepe instead of traditional abaya fabrics. During a summer vacation in London I was stopped by Western and Arab women who enquired about my look. That’s when my clientele really grew. European women wanted to use my designs on top of their swimwear etc. I was excited and realised I could develop my own line to appeal to a larger audience. Did you upset anybody because you changed the look of the traditional Abaya? Not really because I didn’t change the traditional look of the abaya. It still retained its shape and modesty but with a twist. After that I wanted to develop my range and so I opened a line in 2011 for evening dresses, that appealed to all women. My production company is in Italy and I design the dresses here in Bahrain. Is there a certain fabric that you like working with? I love lace and try to use it in every collection. I feel it is very feminine and
People classy. I actually use French lace. Is your work influenced or inspired by anyone? I haven’t really been influenced by anybody. I watch a lot of fashion shows. But if you follow one particular designer then you will start to design like him/her. I want people to be able to recognise my creations before they see the label. I achieved that with my abayas and now am hoping to do the same with my fashion line. What have you created for Fall/Winter 2014-15? It’s mostly East meets West but I have been inspired by East and West; Middle East and Japan. I chose Japan as I found a lot of similarities with the East with regards to style and colour. For instance the similarity between the kaftan and abaya; also, the influence the pearl has on both cultures. I feel it will be a very strong collection.
One must dress to suit one’s body shape and personality. It is important to consider your personality while dressing because if you’re not comfortable wearing something then it will surely show. What is a key item for every woman’s wardrobe this fall? The cape. What are your plans for the future? My collections are currently available in Saks Fifth Avenue, Bahrain. But But I want to expand W by Walla and make it an international label which is available around the world. My Spring/ Summer 2014 collection is currently in showrooms in Milan and Paris for buyers from around the world to view and I’m trying to get it into the US and Far East market. So the plan is to build my evening wear up and then launch a ready to wear collection.
Where do you get your inspiration from? From everything that surrounds me; when I travel, sceneries and landscapes, different types of colours and artists; or just something very simple such as food. In your opinion is there a mistake that a lot of women make while dressing? Yes definitely! A lot of women want to be seen as fashionable without considering if the style actually suits them. What may look great on a hanger or my girlfriend isn’t necessarily going to look good on me.
Have you dressed a celebrity yet? I launched my demi-couture label W by WALLA during MBIFW (Miami Beach International Fashion Week) in 2012 and won the International Rising Star Award. Latino singer Madi attended the event and later wore one of my evening gowns on the red carpet at a music award event which was held there. If you could dress any celebrity who would it be? There so many out there that I would like to work with. I usually realise which dress would suit which person once I complete a collection November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 51
Fashion
Long shirt dress with lace top part BD625 Cocktail colour blocked dress BD238
W By Walla 52 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Fashion
Cocktail shirt dress with puff sleeves, comes with embroidery on the sleeves BD600
Cocktail colour and lace blocked dress with petal trimmings in front and back BD400
Long dress with lace bustier and petal trimming in front and back BD575
Reversable draped top, double chiffon BD213
Image Credits: Ali Sharaf
Give your wardrobe a facelift with these beautiful creations!
This Spring Summer 2014 Collection will be available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bahrain City Centre from January ‘14.
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 53
Fashion
SWEATER: BD21
Spruce up your swag this season with these chic pieces.
54 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Fashion COAT: BD25
JACKET: BD19
Available at Mango outlets across Bahrain.
CARDIGAN: BD25
SWEATER: BD10
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 55
Fashion
2
1 NEW LOOK
Autumn-Winter 2013 Collection
The Fun and Fabulous Fashion of Today!
4
3 1 BD15 2 BD13 3 BD8.5 4 BD13 5 BD6.5
5 * Available in New Look stores across Bahrain. 56 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Fashion
4
1
6
1 BD16.5 2 BD16.5 3 BD36 4 BD4.5 5 BD13 6 BD19.5
3
2
5 * Available in New Look at Bahrain City Centre. November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 57
Fashion
1 2
Pull & Bear Stylish and cozy best describes this one!
3
58 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Fashion
4
5 10
9
1 BD29.9 2 BD6.9 3 BD17.9 4 BD45.9 5 BD17.9 6 BD19.9 7 BD24.9 8 BD17.9 9 BD6.9 10 BD14.9
8
6
7
Pull & Bear is availabale at Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall. November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 59
Beauty
Essential Glamour
BD12.8 BD9.2
Bourjois celebrates the Glamour attitude in a brand new collection of fragrances. Glamour Excessive is sure to turn heads and set hearts on fire. This vibrant, round and elegant perfume is musky oriental, totally addictive and rolls out its notes like a series of surprises. Glamour Fantasy is a dash of madness. Spontaneous and free, this perfume has a fruity fragrance that opens with lively trails of cherry and raspberry macaroon. Yummylicious!
Beauty
Buzz
Perfume Special
BD36 (50ml) BD53 (100ml)
Narciso Rodriguez for Her
A tribute to women’s grace and power of inspiration, narciso rodriguez for her is a fragrance that is so addictive. A modern classic, this perfume is a gift for all women.
60 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
BD41 (50ml) BD56 (100ml)
Arabia’s most intelligent magazine … for Arabia’s most intelligent individuals The multi-award winning Arabian magazine
GulfInsider The Arabian Review
Issue 106
Bahrain
Need for Dialogue
UAE
Passports for Expats
GCC Telecoms
Dwindling Profits
BREAKING NEWS American Southern Style Family Restaurant & Lounge Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The internet, blogs, and the accent of fast but false news
Bahrain BD2
KSA SR20
Kuwait KD1.75
Oman RO2
Qatar QR20
UAE DHS20
Complimentary Copy
Bahrain …
Gulf-Insider.com
November issue (#106)
on sale now! Only BD2
Serving Real American Food in The Middle East since 1997 We are located in Juffair...Come see us! Grand Mosque Gulf Hotel
Al Jazira Supermarket
NSA
Tel: 17725550 email: ricsbah@yahoo.com
GulfInsider is bold, insightful and reaches GCC decision makers. Distribution includes: shop sales, home delivery to VIPs, 5 Star Hotel Concierge and Club lounges, First and Business Class lounges, private jet fleets, ARAMCO, and at exclusive events. Our exclusive subscriber database, one of the most valuable databases of VIPs in the world, and includes leaders in business and government including CEOs and senior executives, government ministers, ambassadors, and the region’s high spending consumers. GulfInsider exclusive interviews have included: Sir Richard Branson (entrepreneur), Christine Lagarde (head of the IMF), James Wolfensohn (former president, the World Bank), Mary Robinson (UN Commissioner for Human Rights) … and many more!
read GulfInsider online - visit
www.gulf-insider.com
Beauty CH Pink
CH supports the most important feminine cause: breast cancer prevention. Here is a limited edition of CH fragrance: CH Pink Collector’s Edition Wish. This CH edition is dedicated to one of the purest and most generous forms of love: the wish, a desire filled with good intentions that travels to the loved person and puts a smile on his face.
BD39.4 (50ml) BD29.7 (100ml)
Valentina Oud Assoluto
Valentina Oud Assoluto associates the tradition of both Italian and Oriental perfumeries, while also adding the sensuality of oud wood to the sparkling orange blossom. It is plain sophisticated, sensual and fascinating. In this beautiful bottle of black and gold, each of the ingredients chime together with sensuality and the power of the oud accord.
GUESS Night
Playfully spicy and woody, GUESS Night is bursting with energetic notes to keep you going till the sun comes up. It takes luxurious, historic ingredients, such as geranium and patchouli, and wraps them with something sweet and juicy. The scent will be the first thing the GUESS man puts on before going out.
BD21 (50ml) BD27 (100ml)
BD56
Unless otherwise stated, products are available at leading cosmetic outlets.
MOSCHINO Chic Petals
MOSCHINO presents Chic Petals, the amazing new elegance and beauty of flowers that is out to express a sense of lightness, coloured with joy and spontaneity. The delightful mix between floral fruity and woody, this perfume is a fragrance for the “interesting” woman, who moves in the luxurious field of imagination with style and authority.
62 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Lana Peters, Osteopath DO. Bsc (Hons) Ost. Med. Osteopath in the Cranial-sacral field N.D. (Dip. in Naturapathy). Grad Dip (Animal Chiropractice) A.A.O.A. (Registered Osteopath). M.A.V.C.A
Relief from back pain, joint or muscle pain, sports injuries
+973 3919 7480 For a map of our location and to find out about osteopathy and how we can help you, visit our website:
www.backonthemove.com Email: lanadawnpeters@gmail.com
Lana advert.indd 1
08/04/2013 22:49
People
More Than Just A Fragrance Bahrain Confidential explores the base notes of one of Bahrain’s oldest perfume brands, Syed Junaid Alam. Fahad Jaweed Junaid gets up close and personal. Gradually I started playing with fragrances and then the rest just fell into place. If you had to create a fragrance after yourself what would it be like? (Smiles) I’m a shy person but once you get to know me then it’s different. When I think of shy I think of a rose that opens itself up and spreads its fragrance gradually. I’d create a natural fragrance for myself because I’m a huge fan of nature;
Ibda’a, Fahad’s first creation
I get that from my dad. And yes, I’d name it Baree’ which means innocent. (Are you innocent!) Yes! (Smiles) What do you think are common mistakes that most people make while choosing their fragrances? Generally, when people smell a fragrance they like or dislike it in the first go. We at SJA try our best for the fragrance of a perfume not to change over time, once a person has worn it but it’s a very difficult process. So basically, try and give a fragrance time to grow on you. Do you feel that SJA’s brand image tends towards a mature set of customers than the youth? There was time when it did, yes; we targeted customers only over 25 years of age. Today we have fragrances for children as well which are water based as opposed to alcohol based; we have fragrances for youngsters aged 15 to 20 and 20 to 35. Are there any fragrances in SJA that have been discontinued? If yes, then which one would you like to bring back? Futoon, which my father launched in 1979 or 1980. People would line outside our shops to pick this one. It smelled like Patchouli which has recently emerged in the market; my father though has been playing around with it for years. Futoon changed the course of our company but it was discontinued as there was a phase when oriental fragrances were beginning to phase out as bigger brands came to Bahrain Fahad Jaweed Junaid, Marketing Executive at Syed Junaid Alam
Your favourite fragrance for the day & night. For the day it is Ateeq; a bright and sweet fragrance that cheers you up. Wujood as well which is a new fragrance with rosy and musky tones. For the night it’s Tareekh which is dark and a complete western fragrance with an Arabian feel. Also, Ibda’a which means innovation; this is the first fragrance I developed and it has dark violet orchid tones. You handle the creatives for Syed Junaid Alam (SJA); everything from creating fragrances to designing perfume bottles. Do you have formal training in what you do or is this something that comes to you naturally? My journey with SJA began when I was 11. I’d spend my summer holidays cleaning and maintaining the outlet. Then I moved to sales and after a few years my dad asked me to take charge of our operations in Bahrain; over time I realised that I had fallen in love with perfumes and fragrances. After I got my degree I started working full time at Syed Junaid and created designs under supervision.
64 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
For more information visit: syedjunaidalam.com
Health No Shave November or better known as Movember is held every year in November where people all around the world grow moustaches (well, men grow moustaches and women support them!) to help create and raise awareness of prostate cancer and all other male cancers. So, November is men’s health month. It works the same way as Breast Awareness Month, October, only this time we focus on men and their health. Each year, there is a visible rise in the male population all over the world, thus, resulting in a huge amount of money raised for men’s health awareness and programmes.
No Shave November [aka Movember] 1 in every 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
You are in more risk of developing prostate cancer if your father or any other man in the family has had it. The most common cause for death amongst men is heart disease.
Occurrences of prostate cancer or any other cancer are almost comparable to the rates of breast cancer in women.
60 percent of adult men are overweight or obese.
Smoking causes 30 percent of most cancer deaths.
47 percent of testicular cancer occurs in men under 35 years and over 90 percent in men under 55 years.
Shocking 87 percent of deaths amongst men are lung cancer deaths.
Men between the ages 15-44 are less likely to visit the doctor for any reasons.
The average life expectancy for men is 5 years less than women.
Worldwide funds and events are held to mark the month of men’s health:
movember.com is where you pledge to not touch razors for the whole month, and then find sponsors to donate money for prostrate cancer research. At the end of the month, there is a Shave Party! A similar themed No Shave November promotes “The Art of not shaving during November”. (They have a Facebook Page) Whatever the event or fund may be, join and show your support all month long! (Ladies, let the men be the limelight for the month)
HEALTH UPDATES Feel worn down? Try laughing. It brings the spring back in your step! You need one reason to keep laughing? Bahrain Confidential gives you 10 reasons. Read on! Have you ever had that exhausted feeling after a real good laugh? The one where your tummy hurts, your eyes water and you are out of breath. Yes! Laughter boosts your system. Decreases Stress
If you ever need to ease on the tension, laughter is a really good way. Your stress hormones tend to decrease when you are rolling on the ground laughing. It not only reduces stress, it also helps improve immune function. Laughing also is said to be a highly beneficial addition to the treatments of cancer and HIV patients. So, let laughter lighten your mood!
66 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Protects your Heart
Anxiety can really stress your heart. Laughing increases the blood flow, protecting the heart from any cardiovascular problems. It also boosts immune cells and infection fighting muscles, protecting you from any disease. What better way to boost your health?
Energising Organs
Look at laughing to be a wake up call to the heart, brain and lungs. It stimulates these organs into action. Take for example, the times when you could barely catch your breath while watching a movie, leads to coughs or the occasional hiccups. This helps loosen mucus and clear airways. It also helps in digestion. It is a kind of therapy for irritable bowel syndrome and many others.
A Stitch In Time
Dr Samer J Bashir
Are you diabetic? Then you have all the more reason to regularly check your eyes. Visit Gulf Eye Center Bahrain for an examination with Dr Samer J Basher, Consultant Ophthalmologist & Retina Specialist. Every year; medical authorities celebrate the world diabetes day with various events to increase awareness. Diabetics themselves don’t need to be reminded they suffer an ever challenging disease. A disease that starts with limiting your food quality & quantity for life can’t be good. Then they start the long & tedious obstacle course run trying to avoid its dire complications. Diabetes actually sabotages the vascular system as sugar itself is converted to various toxins inside the vessels. With fluctuating blood sugar levels; the damage is inevitable. The curial supply network starts losing fluids then larger nutrients find their way out missing their target organ then finally blood itself is lost. The blood vessels lose blood as a tiny dot then a blot then by the drop. The eye is one of first casualties of war for it depends entirely on small & delicate blood vessels to function. Recurrent bleeds cause fibrosis to set in & the eye loses the battle for vision. The retinal specialist has a wide spectrum of tools to fight back ranging from lasers; medicines that get injected into the eye & even surgery; but the odds of such confrontation are limited once the disease sets deep roots. The notion that nothing has to be checked as long as vision is good is disastrous because blood vessels tend to be affected much earlier than the eye itself which gives plenty of time for counteraction measures to be implemented. It’s very unfortunate that such damaging concept as this is also quite popular among educated elite and even doctors. The eye itself gives us another reason for periodic checks even if everything seems alright for it’s the only location where blood vessels & nerves can be seen naked without a skin cover. The retina specialist would be able to assess the state of damage to these vital systems before organ disease is even established.
For further information call on Tel. +973 1723 9171/9239 or email: eye@gulfdiabetes.com or visit: gulfdiabetes.com. Visit the Gulf Eye Center on the 2nd Floor of The Gulf Diabetes Center in Salmaniya
Opinion
Marvellously Motivated Kelly Armatage, our resident Healer, Coach, Speaker & Seminar Facilitator shares motivational tips.
S
ummer is almost over, we are into the last quarter of the year and it will not be long before a new year descends upon us. How are the goals that you set out to do at the beginning of 2013 doing? Completed, ticked off, achieved? Are your motivation levels lagging somewhat? Here are 10 motivational tips to help revitalise your mindset, reboost your energy levels and assist you in avoiding the dangerous pit of procrastination:
1 You are your motivator, no-one else can do it for you. However, having positive, inspirational, hard-working and successful people within your immediate circle assists. Remember “birds of a feather flock together” and people’s positive (and negative behaviours) are easily modelled.
4 Spend at least one hour a day in selfdevelopment. Read inspirational books or listen to motivational recordings. YouTube is a fabulous source for meditation, coaching material and affirmations.
10 Be prepared to leave behind the old you for the new empowered, motivated, strong and determined you. We can all be great go-getters if we really want to, again it is all about the correct mindset.
5 Whatever you set out to do, make sure it is completed. Train yourself to not be a procrastinator and to have a mindset of ‘conclusion’, so all tasks are ticked off, concluded and put to bed. Write a list of goals that are still (and have been for a long time) ‘in progress’ and allocate time to finish them all. The feeling of self confidence and positivity after is immeasurable.
I close the article with a quote from Winston Churchill “Never, never, never give up”. It is a tragedy to look back and have regret, remorse and guilt for a life that could have been. Learn to motivate yourself on a daily basis and YOUR life living YOUR true inner desires is within YOUR reach
6 Make mistakes, make mistakes, make
mistakes. Mistakes are not failures; they are stepping stones to growth, self expansion and knowledge.
2 Be prepared to come out of your comfort zone and face uncomfortable tasks. If we are not doing something uncomfortable on a regular basis, then we remain stagnant, limited and with zero self-growth. 3 Never engage in self-limiting thinking. Be prepared to turn your ‘shoulds’ into ‘musts’. “I must get a 6-pack” is much more empowering and standard-raising than “I should get a 6 pack”. Talking to yourself within your mind with the most uplifting, motivational and positive self-speak you can, will ensure your emotions and behaviours are in line with the achievement of your goals.
“Live in the present moment; do not get stuck in depression of the past or anxiety of the future. The present is all we have; immerse yourself fully in the now.” 68 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Kelly Armatage
7 Live in the present moment; do not get stuck in depression of the past or anxiety of the future. The present is all we have; immerse yourself fully in the now. 8 Enjoy yourself. Any arduous task can be enjoyable if we have the right mindset. “I just love every step of achieving my goals” is a wonderful mantra to affirm within the mind, before and during goal action. 9 Organise your schedule correctly, so sufficient amounts of time are allocated to the achievement of your goals. Just doing a little time management planner, helps to alleviate any anxiety towards goal completion.
Kelly Armatage - Director of Kelly Armatage Inc. 1:1 Coaching Sessions, Workshops, Corporate Training Public Speaking, Meditation Classes T: 17002320 / M: +973 39931399 info@kellyarmatage.com / www.kellyarmatage.com www.facebook.com/KellyArmatageInc All feedback on Kelly Armatage Inc’s services/newsletters is always gratefully received.
Your dental health is important. Dr Ali Hussain Al Juffairy Dental Services provides top-notch quality services from the most basic to the most complicated dental procedures you require.
implants orthodontics fillings extractions root canals bleaching etc.
FOR WORLD-CLASS DENTAL SERVICES, THERE’S ONLY ONE PLACE TO GO.
Al Juffairy Clinic es! Now moved to new premis Al Juffairy Clinic 6th Floor, Mashtan Building next to Almoayyed Tower
Book an appointment today.
Call +973 1727 3700 EMAIL: juffairy@batelco.com.bh
OPEN Sunday thru Thursday from 9am up till 6pm
Technology Apple iPhone 5c
Available in a range of exciting colours, the Apple iPhone 5c is where technology meets style! Featuring an A6 chip that paces up your downloads and pumps up game graphics, this gadget has interesting interfaces that have been created to suit the exterior and so you can enjoy a complete experience. A long battery life and great connectivity options make it all the more desirable. The 5c is fitted with an 8-megapixel snapper and iOS7.
Samsung Galaxy Note 3
For those who think bigger is better, the Samsung Galaxy Note III is a treat! Samsung has also introduced the Galaxy Gear which works with the note; those are the smartwatch and the S pen which complete the set. Note III comes with a wider (5.7-inch) full HD Super AMOLED display and is equipped with a 13 megapixel rear camera with Smart Stabilisation and high CRI LED flash. Incorporating the industry’s largest 3GB RAM, the GALAXY Note 3 also provides faster and more powerful performance.
Tech-swag for the season!
LG Flexible Phone
LG is allegedly launching their flexible phone this month. Rumored to be called the G-Flex, this new phone has a 6-inch screen. LG claims that the phone is made of Plastic OLED (POLED), a new type of screen which allows the shape to be bent. Though the device is likely to be slightly flexible, it will not bend or turn completely and the plastic based panel is made with a rigid curve. The advantage of having a curvy phone is not very definite at this point. However, the prospect of having a flexible screen that is virtually unbreakable is generating quite a lot of interest.
Samsung Galaxy S4
Featuring a 5-inch Full HD Super AMOLED screen and a 13-megapixel auto focus camera, the S4 is light and has a sophisticated and stylish design. There is another 2-megapixel front snapper. Enjoy your applications and store all the data you want thanks to the 16 / 32 / 64GB memory + microSD slot (up to 64GB), and 2GB RAM. The phone is fitted with a 1.9 GHz Quad-Core Processor / 1.6 GHz Octa-Core Processor.
70 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Editor’s Pick Of The Month SEIKO’s authorised dealer, Ambassador Stores introduces the world’s first solar powered GPS watch, SEIKO Astron to Bahrain. This work of art is not only a technology marvel, but also a sophisticated piece of beauty. It merges the power of ambient light and orbiting satellites to give you Atomic clock precision anywhere on the planet. SEIKO Astron comes loaded with a SEIKO patented, low energy consuming GPS receiver that can identify 39 time zones, time and date using the global network of GPS satellites, making it possible for the watch to divides the planet in 1,000,000 squares allocating a time zone to each. Wherever you are, this watch is capable to provide time with Atomic clock precision! In addition to the traditional date and dual time displays, the second hand and indicator at 10 o’clock position indicate the status of the GPS signal when the appropriate button is pressed. At a
Cucina_bah_confidential Oct.pdf
glance, you see whether a GPS signal has been received, and from how many satellites and whether Daylight Saving Time is activated. The Astron comes in three models, one model in high-intensity titanium, which is stronger than stainless steel but has only 60 per cent of its weight and the other two in high quality stainless steel. Only Seiko’s unrivalled skills could package this technology into a watch that is just 47 mm in diameter and weighs about 135 grams! Available at Ambassador Stores For more information, call Tel. +973 1771 0078. 1
10/13/13
2:43 PM
The World’s First Solar GPS Watch by SEIKO
Technology
In our previous issue we covered the subject on “what to blog about” including some valuable tips on blogging. This time, for all of you who are interested in blogging and don’t know how to start, I will share with you some tips and hints to make your entrance to the blogging world easier! There are many blogging platforms out there and I am sure you have heard of some like WordPress, blogger, tumblr and others.
About Me Social Media Executive @ VIVA Bahrain
Mohammed Zainal
Why choosing WordPress: It’s free WordPress is an open source blogging platform and it’s available for free to download for business and personal use. WordPress.com and self-hosting You can either register your blog @ wordpress.com (YourBlogName.wordpress. com) or get hands on and host your blog by yourself (YourBlogName.com). If you want to know the difference log onto en.support. wordpress.com/com-vs-org/
My essential plugins:
Yoast SEO 404 Redirection Better WP Security WP Maintenance Mode W3 Total Cache
Other known blogging platforms: Blogger.com Tumblr.com ghost.org Squarespace.com Typepad.com
Customizable free & premium themes You can either work with a free theme or buy a premium theme that fits your needs.
It’s search engine friendly It’s proven that WordPress with the help of free available plugins will rock your organic visits (visits from search engines).
Easy to use CMS (Content Management System) It’s very easy to go around WordPress CMS, you can publish, delete, edit posts and pages without the need of technical knowledge.
Community and support I have never had a problem that I couldn’t solve with WordPress, they offer various support options such as FAQ’s, forum topics and documentation. In addition, there are many WordPress communities out there that can help you out.
Extended functionality Need more out of your stock WordPress? There is plugin for almost anything with around 27,000 registered plugins. Explore them in wordpress.org/plugins/
My resources:
wpBeginner.com WooThemes.com SmashingMagazine.com Lynda.com Wordpress.org
Who is using WordPress?
New York Times CNN Forbes Reuters eBay
According to WordPress there are 71,803,891 WordPress sites in the world
Powered by
For more notable WordPress users please visit: www.en.wordpress.com/notable-users/ Got questions? Ask @zainal
get stay social informed Subscribe
72 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Twitter: @VIVA_BH
Google +: +vivabahrain
Instagram: viva_bh#
Facebook: VIVA.Bahrain
Home Decor
There’s one for every child!
Jamal Al Kooheji CEO and Managing Director, Dream Group
C
hildren of today are connoisseurs of anything cool, inheriting an early eye for style and quality. Doğtaş Kidsland insist upon freeing the imagination when designing children’s bedrooms. Our extensive range of kids beds are designed and selected with one simple, yet profound, message in mind:
to offer you exclusive, well-made and safe children’s bedroom furniture that will last the test of time. Our children’s collection caters for every child. There is something for every child at Doğtaş Kidsland. Create a special place for your little ones to grow and develop. Being parents ourselves we fully appreciate the importance of a well
designed kid’s bed and how much they mean to our adorable little ones. This high quality is achieved with all of our children’s bedroom accessories. Make your child’s surroundings special with Doğtaş Kidsland.
Available at Doğtaş Kidsland in Enma Mall, Riffa Tel. +973 7701 6600 / Fax: +973 1791 1098 / Mobile: +973 3605 8114.
74 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Opinion
Letter From Bahrain
Review your business’ performance, recommends John Ridley.
financialdirector.co.uk
W
ith another cookbook in the early stages of planning, agreements to write for more magazines, and a contract to research and present a programme for a US national radio network, I needed to review how I manage my business and workload. Food writing, authoring cookery books, journalism in Middle Eastern current affairs, broadcasting, and mobile telecoms consultancy is a seemingly eclectic mix reflecting my knowledge, and experience in broadcast and mobile engineering, and my passions for food and Middle Eastern culture and politics. With a growing workload, I had to stand back and take a dispassionate look at my business; is it sustainable and on track to
76 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
meet objectives, or should I make changes? I knew that the mobile telecoms business environment is rapidly changing - I derive a significant part of my income from the industry. Current events journalism is also changing; fewer news outlets are prepared to pay for current events analysis, preferring to fill pages with news agency feeds of topical stories. Whilst I wanted an impartial view of my business, I could not afford to employ an auditor; and understanding the structure and methodology of any audit is as important as the results and recommendations. After much searching, I found a series of self-assessment audits, written and marketed by Cambridge Strategy Audits - easily adapted audit templates covering different aspects of business, and suitable for most businesses - large and small. Templates are typically 100 pages long, including guidance for the individual (or team). Each one is presented as a series of
John R Ridley
“Unexpectedly, when I examined my work in detail, there was less reactive work than I had realised; with better planning and structuring of my output throughout the year, I could avoid many of those stressful last minute deadlines.” simple steps for performing the audit and analysing the results. I’m sure other companies offer similar audit templates, but these seemed to fit my needs, and had good reviews on the Amazon web site. The whole process took just a couple of days; it was immediately clear that I should develop updated current events products, and amend my business plan accordingly. Unexpectedly, when I examined my work in detail, there was less reactive work than I had realised; with better planning and structuring of my output throughout the year, I could avoid many of those stressful last minute deadlines. In the few weeks since the audit, an updated news and current events product has been developed and is being trialed by a New Zealand radio network. I will be repeating the audits each year to review the performance of the business, where I focus my efforts, and how I manage my time. In these difficult times, I would recommend the process to all business, large or small John Ridley is a Bahrain based journalist, broadcaster and writer, he can be contacted at john@johnridley.nu or john@ghostwriting.me Disclaimer: I have no affiliation (financial, or otherwise) with Cambridge Strategy Audits.
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
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Event
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa held their event on 29th September.
Chef Guy
Shantha The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa management with media guests
David
Al Rashid Group Donation
Al Rashid Group donated BD15,000 to Hope Institute for Special Education on 26th September.
Al Rashid Group management during the handover ceremony Shaikha Marwa Al Khalifa and Zaffer
Deepak, Mario, Vikas, Fawzia, Shaikha Marwa Al Khalifa, Zaffer and Jayaram
78 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Saks Fifth Avenue Fall/Winter Fashion Show
Saks Fifth Avenue held their Fall/Winter Fashion Show at Bahrain City Centre on 26th September. Noor and Mariam
Sabine, Faith, Leylan and Rocio
HE Jong Ha Yu, Meeji and Hala
Rebecca, Tom and Zena Sabine, Puneet, Mala and Leylan
Mark and Rana
Michelle and Kristina
Nora and Amal
Selma and friends
Olga, Khatoun and friend
The models
Reem, Nadia and Thuraya
Eric and Imtiyaz
Ricky and Mark
Kristina, Klara and Anne
Aaron and Kristy
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 79
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Arabian Magazines Wins “Inspirational Company” at BIZZ Award 2013
Bahrain Confidential, one of Bahrain’s most read luxury and lifestyle magazines in Bahrain was recognised as an Inspirational Company at the recently held BIZZ Awards 2013 at The Atlantis, Dubai. Rebecca Smith, the Publisher & Editor-in-chief of Bahrain Confidential magazine was presented with the trophy and a certificate. As a winner, Bahrain Confidential becomes a part of WORLDCOB, as an Elite Member. It has approximately 3,000 members representing over 80 countries, and has held more than 100 award ceremonies worldwide.
Rebecca receiving the award at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Hotels and Resorts
Rebecca Smith
The guests at The BIZZ 2013 Awards Night
Rebecca Smith
Rebecca during the interview backstage
Amina Gallery Opening
The opening of Amina Gallery was held at Riyadat Mall on 28th September.
Amina and Mariam Mara and Mona
Marwa, Yara, Amina and Zain
Anfal and Roaya
Race Around the World Race Around the World was held at Al Arad Park on 25th September.
Crowne Plaza team
80 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
For free private consultation by appointment call on, Tel. +973 1782 2388 or +973 3618 8122 Email: info@hairbybecca.com • Visit: www.hairbybecca.com
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
American Women Association 39th Birthday
American Women Association celebrated their 39th Birthday at the Mรถvenpick Hotel on 16th September. Bonnie, HE Thomas Krajeski and Beverley
HE Thomas Krajeski with the members of AWA Vera, Sally, Tosin and Hannah
Amy, Kathy and Pamela
Lori and Layra
Andrea and Denise
Debbie and Savi
Fareeda and Nadia
Philip and Nizar
Heather and Namita
Shellin and Hala
Mona and Amal
Hani, BiancaI, Ils and Mandy Faith and Khatoon
82 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Becky and Diana
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Fashion Capital of the World
MODA Mall in partnership with Harper’s Bazaar kicked off the Fashion Festival 2013 on 25th September.
Cristalyn and Celine
Mona Kattan, Sally and Huda Kattan
Burak and Keven
Fashion Capital of the World opening ceremony
Mark and Zena
Mariam, Amal and Maha
Joelle and Ghassan
New Bollywood Dance Studio’s Cocktail Reception
The New Bollywood Dance Studio held a cocktail reception at Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel on 25th September.
Mohammed, Omar, Amal and Hala
David, Mostafa HE Ahmed Shahzan Abdulsamad and Mirza
Noor Hayati and Mala Kumar
Anju, Neel, Diana and Gelina
Venkitesh and Sanjeev
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 83
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Opening of New Skoda and Pre Owned Cars Showroom
The opening of the New Skoda and Pre-owned cars showroom was held in Sitra on 30th September.
Siraj, Amoodi, Nasser Zayani, Reyadh Zayani, Faisal Zayani, Mamdoh and Khalid Mohammed and Mamdoh
Nasser Zayani with the service team
Saleem and Ayfan
Essam and Lijo
Mohammed, Mohammed, Mamdoh and Mohammed
LG Grand Opening
LG held the grand opening in Muharraq on 30th September. Mahmood Al Kooheji and James Kim
LG management and staff
84 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Official Launch of the All New Toyota Yaris 2014
The official launch of the all new Toyota Yaris 2014 was held at the Toyota showroom on 28th September.
Ayman and Michael
Ichie, Takeyama, Zaid and Okabe
Ahmed and Samir
Ota, Terada, Nakamura, Saito and Anazawa
Okabe, Nader, Ismail and Abdulla
Fawaz Kanoo, Khalid Kanoo and Isa Kanoo
World Islamic Banking Conference
The World Islamic Banking Conference was held at Gulf Hotel on 8th October.
Devid Mclean, Ijlal Ahmed Alvi, Khalid Hamad Abdul-Rahman Hamad, Dr Khaled Al Fakih, Dr Jarmo Kotilaine and Ashar Nazim
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 85
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Mepec Cocktail Reception Party
Mepec Cocktail Reception Party was held on 1st October at InterContinental Regency Hotel. Najah and Michael
The models
Michael Koth, Mohammed and Khalid
Majdi, Mohammed, Vivian, Jehan, Cora and Levinia
Richard and Christa
Omniya, Aya, Heba and Aya
Sami, Jorge and Oana
Ministry of Culture’s Russian Textile Exhibition
Ministry of Culture’s Russian Textile Exhibition was held at the National Museum on 9th October.
IijimaI and wife Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Khalifa with diplomats and guests
86 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad, Datin Norhayati, Wang Yi and HE Li Chen
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Hawaiian Fest
The Hawaiian Fest was held at Warbler on 10th October.
Stephen Fouri (centre) with Biplas Das (second from left) and staff
Warbler staff with Soundphoria
Maria, Anisa and Tanya
Warbler staff with Soundphoria
The birthday celebrator with Soundphoria
Think Pink at the Royal Golf Club
The Eighth Annual Charity Think Pink Bahrain golfing events were hosted at the Royal Golf Club on 10th October as part of the Kingdom’s breast cancer awareness month. Hole sponsors included; BMI, VIVA, BMMI, Seef Dental, Fraser Suites, Reza Hygiene and Trowers & Hamlins.
Think Pink group
Dena, Hanne, Evelyn and Anne (Think Pink winning group)
Rebecca, Pauline, Sara and Karin (Think Pink Best dressed carts)
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 87
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Massimo Dutti Exclusive Event
Massimo Dutti’s exclusive party was held at the Capital Club on 25th September.
Osama and Dr Akram
Dalia, Anna and Sherein
Natalia, Dalia, Ekram and Graham
Simon, Jo and Sherron
Ranna and Mohammed
Hussain Hawaj, Fuad and Ahmed Hawaj
Tomy and Anna
Mona and Rana
Mehtab and Kiran
Ashraf and wife
Electronic Campaign Launch at Bahrain City Centre
The Electronic Campaign Launch was held at Bahrain City Centre on 6th October. Gareth, Ahmad, Zena and Rawia
Alex, Aqsa and Mohammed
Mohsen and Mariam
88 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Aqsa and Mariam
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Gulf Hotel’s Oktoberfest
Gulf Hotel held the Oktoberfest on 3rd October.
Christophe, Michael, Ian and Mia
Marian and Hans
Ron, Nick, Suzy and Hugh
Cristie and Ghazi
Svenja, Maram and Majvoline
Chris and Garfield
Panos and Eric
The Gujarati Community Celebrated "Navaratri” Festival
The Gujarati Community in Bahrain recently celebrated in true spirit "Navaratri” festival and organised "Event of Garba” (traditional form of Dance) at the Indian School. This event was attended by nearly 1000 people and prizes were sponsored by Apparel Group.
Dancers
Performers at the event
Winners receiving awards
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 89
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Launch of the New Alia Approved Maki
The launch of the new Alia approved Maki was held at Maki on 3rd October.
Lana, Ghassan and Sufiyan Almoayyed
Sohail Al Gosaibi
Alia, Amer and Nick
Amer, Louis and Alia
Ali and Nadia
Afshan and Hanadi
Hussain and Eman
Reem and Nada
Dana and Abdul Rahman Almoayyed
Suzanne, Sara and Laala
Rotary Club of Sulmaniya
The workflow at the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Economic situation was discussed on 9th October at Golden Tulip Hotel.
Mohammed and Osama
Dr Habib, Steve and Viren
90 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
HE Essam Fakhro and Jaleel Ansari
HE Essam Fakhro
Marjan, Khalid and Nada
Ernst, Ashraf and Mohammed
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Seef Mall Press Conference HE Dr Hassan bin Abdulla Fakhro and Robert Addison
Seef Mall held their press conference on 9th October.
HE Dr Hassan bin Abdulla Fakhro during the ribbon cutting ceremony
HE Dr Hassan bin Abdulla Fakhro with Seef Properties management and Ministry representative
Olivier and Juliana
Unvailing the new Seef Mall branding
Eman, Nader, Saqar and Galal
Zakareya, Sager, Robert and Sattam
HE Dr Hassan bin Abdulla Fakhro with the Seef management during the cake cutting ceremony
Badae Al Dosry, Fathma Al Qadhi, Zakareya Bualley and Shibu Valsalan
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 91
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Leading Women in Business Forum
Leading Women in Business Forum was held at the Capital Club on 8th October.
Hala Sulaiman, Narees Qamber, Bayan Kanoo, Reem Buais and Doris Martin
Sehabet, Dorris, Bonnie and Gina
Nina and Hala
Garrie, Diane and Bianca
Hiba, Mariam and Manal
Gafran and Orla
Sara and Dunia
Mohammed, Dana, Dinora, Nadia and Reem
WEC Press Conference
The WEC Press Conference was held at the Bahrain International Circuit on 1st October.
Media guests
92 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Alexander Wurz, Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Gerard Neveu
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
DIVA Womens Group in Maki Japanese Cooking Class
The DIVA Womens Group attended the Japanese Cooking Class at Maki on 4th October. Marion, Executive Chef Louis Kenji Huanng and Amer Zeitoun
DIVA Womens Group with Maki management
TRA Press Conference
The TRA Press Conference was held at Liquidity Management Centre on 29th September.
Mohammed Noaimi, Mohammed A Amer and Mohammed Bubshaith
Lebanese Singers at Hani Royal Hotel
Lebanese singers, Marwan Rahbania and Ghadi Rahbani performed performed at Hani Royal Hotel.
Marwan Rahbania and Ghadi Rahbani
Wissam, Sally, Oussama Rahbani, Simon Obaid and Selim Nseir
The Importance of Women’s Economic Participation
The Importance of Women’s Economic Participation was held on 1st October at the Royal University for Women. Dr Eva Fischer
Dr Eva Fischer, HE Kulach and Huda Janahi
Guests
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 93
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Opening of Pachachic
The opening of Pachachic was held at the Riyadat Mall on 5th October. Sara and Dana
Shaikh Hesham Al Khalifa and Rashed
Michael and Sarah
Kealan and Aisling
Suad and Omnia
Zain, Nouf, Khalid and Safa
Opening of Places Exhibition
The opening of Places Exhibition was held at the Bahrain Art Centre on 8th October. Basima, Areej and Rasoul
Khalid, HE Sameera Rajab and Amal
Shareya and Khadem
Azhar and Mohammed
Alaa, Seema, Muna, Sherry and Rula
Fatima, Wassam and Amina
94 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Sawsan, Sherley, Alan and Hala
Arwa and Mariam
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Zuhair Al Saeed’s Solo Exhibition B+
Zuhair Al Saeed’s Solo Exhibition B+ was held at al Bareh Art Gallery on 6th October.
Shaikh Rashed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and Artist Zuhair Al Saeed (wearing maroon shirt) with guests
Mohsin and Leann
Sherif, Abbas and Khalid
Savasman and family
Opening of Ibrida at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa
The opening of Ibrida at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa was held on 2nd October.
Elina and Nader
Faten and Zeyad
Zena, Jacob, Evelyn and Neil
Elomunther and Ebel
Jay, Cliff, Sarva and Rajeev
Laura and Ben
Saghir and Ephess
Veena, Anoop, Asha, Shantharam, Nick and Dr Bhatt
Nicholas, Travis, Stuart, Mo, Anna and Katey
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 95
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Valencia, Dumond, Steve Madden & Ecco Celebrating 5 years in Bahrain City Centre Valencia, Dumond, Steve Madden & Ecco celebrating 5 years in Bahrain City Centre on 10th October.
Team ARG
Mathew and Vikas
Cake cutting ceremony
Ali and Ali
Opening of Elevation Burger
The opening of the new branch of Elevation Burger took place at Riffa Views on 10th October. Sara, Lulua, Dana and Rawia
Abeer and Ashok Khalid, Tariq and Waleed
Sultan and Salman
Mohammed, Nasser and Ahmed
Hana, Armaan, Yaseen, Rizwan and Ameerah
96 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Launch of the All New BMW 4 Series Coupé in Bahrain
The launch of the all new BMW 4 Series Coupé took place at the Royal Golf Club on 26th September.
Peter and Zena
Leanne and Nick
Majid Al Zayani
Gareth, Zena, Basma and Craig
New BMW 4 Series Coupé
Marks&Spencer Store Opening
Marks&Spencer Store opening was held at Seef Mall on 10th October. Sharon, Duncan, Dorin, Sally and Julie
John Cooper
Marks&Spencers new store
Marks&Spencer officials
Muneera and Fatima
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 97
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Calzedonia Brand Boutique
The opening of Calzedonia, the brand new boutique was held at Seef Mall on 10th October.
Azadia management with HE Alberto Vecchi and wife
Jamal, Pierre and Baha
HE Alberto Vecchi and Jawad Al Hawaj in opening ceremony
Dalia, Natalia and Eman
Hannine and Abdulla
Anne and Simon
Ramya, Ameena, Jamal and Tania
Mariam, Narmine, Insi and Shereen
Sara and Ali
98 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Society
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
‘Taste of Fashion’ with Exclusive Preview from Saks Fifth Avenue
Bahrain City Centre and Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre welcomed luxury retailer Saks Fifth Avenue for the ‘Taste of Fashion’ event on 16th October with a delightful breakfast at Tea Lounge, T-Spoon. The models
Mark, Sara, Hala, Sari, Marie and Ahmed
Maya
Hala, Rebecca and Sara
The models
Aysha and Shahla
Think Pink Donates to RCSI Bahrain
Think Pink Bahrain has donated BD1,500 on 21st October to RCSI Bahrain from its 2013 Education Fund. The money will be used to buy books and research journals on breast cancer for students and staff in the college’s library.
Think Pink Bahrain’s Julie Sprakel and RCSI Bahrain’s Evelyn Anand
Shaikha Fajer and Shehzadi
Azadea Charity Event
The Azadea Charity event was held at Bahrain Red Crescent on 8th October.
Abdul Wahab Al Hawaj at the Azadea Charity event
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 99
Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net
Invent Information Technology SystemsBahrain Awarded Areej Magazine Huda Al Mahdi, editor of Areej magazine received a token of appreciation from Invent Information Technology Systems.
American Women Association Awarded Bahrain Confidential Magazine
Melissa Nazareth and Shareef Panhatt from Bahrain Confidential received Certificates of Appreciation from the American Women Association.
Ali and Huda AlMahdi
AWA official with Melissa Nazareth and Shariff Panhatt
Launch of The New Range of Yamaha Motorbikes
The launch of the new range of Yamaha Motorbikes took place at the AJM Kooheji Group Showroom on 21st October.
AJM Kooheji and Yamaha management with guests
Mohammed Kooheji, Rohit, Hamed and Omar
100 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Hussain, Mohammed, Ali and Alex
Business Le Chocolat’s Hatrick Le Chocolat café restaurant, owned and operated by the Jasmi’s Corporation WLL has opened its 3rd branch in the Diplomatic Area. Spanning across 492.61 sqm, the new branch consists of a ground floor and first floor, and accommodates 120 people. With comfortable round table and chair seating arrangements and set in a pleasant and welcoming ambience which is sure to delight its customers, Le Chocolat is the perfect place to grab a quick snack and coffee or even dine-in for a proper meal with friends and family.
The K Hotel: Making A Difference
Business
In Brief
The K Hotel conducted a blood donation campaign under the supervision of King Hamad University Hospital, last month. The hotel management observed that there is less blood available for patients in need, hence the initiative. Thanks to the good response and enthusiasm from the hotel’s employees, the blood donation programme will now be an annual affair. General Manager of The K Hotel, Volker Mandlowsky stated: “We are all delighted to be supporting the King Hamad University Hospital by donating blood and we believe that it is our duty to help patients in need as much as we can.”
Tenmou Annouces New Start-ups Tenmou, Bahrain’s First Business Angels has announced that its third group of start-up companies have registered and will soon become fully operational. The new companies include: Pet People which offers unique, pet houses tailored for pets’ needs, grooming services, all natural snacks and products to ensure a healthy lifestyle for pets; Al Hayat Insurance brokerage company, first of its kind to offer insurance comparisons online; Al Saeed Mozaics which provides one of the world’s oldest forms of art; Momkin, which does research and development in physiotherapy and medical devices; and Nature’s Path which provides a green and environmentally friendly production of compost, by turning waste into an organic soil fertiliser.
(Left to Right) Sami Jalal, Chairman of Tenmou and Hasan Haider, Chief Executive Officer of Tenmou with the entrepreneurs
Antonov AN 225 The biggest and heaviest aircraft in the world, the Antonov AN 225 has arrived at from Cairo to Bahrain International Airport (BIA). Also known as Mriya - which translates to dream - and Cossack, the airplane landing is a milestone for BIA and showcases the high-quality facilities and services at the airport. Antonov AN 225 is the heaviest strategic cargo aircraft manufactured by Antonov in the 1980s originally to transport the Buram Spaceplane. The aircraft is equipped to carry very heavy shipment up to 250 tonnes and 70 meters in length and is powered with 16 double wheels and 6 turbofan engines. Although two aircrafts of the same kind have been manufactured, Antonov AN 225 is the only aircraft of its’ kind available for service.
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 101
Business IHG ‘Ahead In The Race’ InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) has been conducting its Race Around The World event since 2012. This has helped support the IHG shelter across eleven countries. InterContinental Hotel Group hotels, in the Kingdom of Bahrain consist of three hotels – InterContinental Regency Bahrain, Crowne Plaza Bahrain and Holiday Inn Express Bahrain. Employees of all three hotels participated in the walkathon event at Arad Park, Bahrain. The 3 hotels pledged 540km and raised USD1 for each kilometer walked by an individual team member.
Customer ‘MEETS’ Improved Connectivity Middle East-Europe Terrestrial System (MEETS), a partnership between Zain, du, Vodafone and Zajil is a GCC-wide telecoms consortium and has been formed to build a high-bandwidth regional transmission cable system for the region. Zain will be the landing party in Saudi Arabia, du in the UAE, Vodafone Qatar QSC in Qatar, and Zajil in Bahrain and Kuwait. A stateof-the-art 100G optical transport network will be built on top of a 1,400km terrestrial fibre optic cable to sustain the growing bandwidth demand of the region. MEETS will cater to regional and international ICT companies, meeting their wholesale capacity needs, while providing a connection to new areas and end customers.
BCC Announces Grand Prize Winners Bahrain City Centre announced five Grand Prize winners of the Fiat 500. In addition, daily winners bagged the iPhone 5 and five gift cards – that’s a total of over 200 prizes given away in a single month! The celebrations kicked off with an official cake cutting ceremony, where mall visitors were treated to special anniversary cupcakes. The Smurfs also came to life and entertained families. An exclusive party for fiveyear-olds was hosted to celebrate the mall’s 5th birthday.
2014 Trade Fair Trio
Farewell! The Diplomat Radisson Blu Residence & Spa organised a farewell party for its long serving Bahraini retirees, most of whom have served the hotel for more than 30 years. The ceremony was graced by the CEO of National Hotels Company Abdulrahman Morshed, the General Manager of the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Panos Panagis and a number of department heads. Retirees Ebrahim Hasan, Ali Ateya and Ebrahim Marhoon were honoured for their years of service at the hotel, and wished the very best in their new phase of life.
Smile Of Hope With Zain Young graduate trainees from Future University Network joined hands with the Zain Bahrain’s Summer trainees to conduct the Smile Of Hope campaign. The trainees and HR team visited petrol stations around Bahrain, distributing bags with food coupons, towels and water to the petrol station attendents. The campaign realised Zain’s motto of Radiance, Heart & Belonging and aimed at teaching the trainees to appreciate all kind of jobs and challenges.
102 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Bahrain-based Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (HCE) have launched a wide-reaching promotional campaign to raise awareness of three marketleading trade exhibitions it will stage simultaneously in the Kingdom next year. The promotional launch of the gulfBID, Gulf Property Show and gulfInteriors exhibitions was held in Manama. Speaking at the launch, Jubran Abdulrahman, Managing Director, HCE, said the shows, held under the patronage of HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain from 6th to 8th May 2014, would be at least 1,000 square metres bigger than the total 7,500 square metre combined showcase in 2013.
Business Kempinski Bahrain & Sixt Rent a Car Sign Key Agreement Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre and Europe’s number one rent a car company Sixt, under the Bin Hindi Transport Company have signed an exclusive partnership deal. With this landmark agreement, Sixt rent a car provides limousine services to the hotel’s guests. Sixt also operates a rent a car service counter at the hotel, catering to guests who need that extra convenience of a 5-star stay with a 5-star drive in a moment’s notice. All chauffeur driven limousines in the Kempinski fleet are equipped with Wi-Fi, enabling guests to connect online immediately after their arrival to Bahrain. Kempinski and Sixt are the first to offer this service in the country. Kempinski Hotels and Sixt have a worldwide preferred partner agreement providing both limousine and car rental services. Whether the guest prefers to be picked and driven around by a chauffeur in a luxurious limousine, or select a car exact to their liking from the vast selection of cars, Sixt will have the car of each guest’s choice waiting upon arrival to the hotel.
Gulf Hotels’ Milestone Aqeel Raees, CEO of Gulf Hotels Group, who owns the legendary 5 star Gulf Hotel Bahrain and operates the renowned The K-Hotel Bahrain, was recently awarded the WORLDHOTELS Leadership Award 2013. During the award presentation, which was held during the WORLDHOTELS’ Annual Leadership Conference in Istanbul, Turkey, Mr Hornman cited Mr Raees’ lifetime of dedication to Gulf Hotels Group spanning 40 years, his transformation of the group’s profitability and his commitment to attracting Bahraini’s to work in the hotel industry as some of the criteria that led to the award. WORLDHOTELS is an exclusive group of over 500 independent hotels in 65 countries across the world.
From Left: Faeqa, Raees and Hornman
New Surprises From Malabar Gold Malabar Gold & Diamonds one of the world’s largest gold and diamond jewelers has announced their foray into online shopping with launch of shopmgd.com along with launch of their price friendly Mine Diamond Diwali collection. Malabar Gold and Diamonds has also opened its 102nd store worldwide and 1st in Far East in Singapore. Commemorating the inauguration Malabar Gold & Diamonds announced a BD1,228,560,000 expansion that will see the company add 39 outlets in six months to its existing retail network of 102 outlets.
Bollywood Diva and celebrity Brand Ambassador, Malabar Gold, Kareena Kapoor at the Mumbai launch
Gulf Eye Center Announces Visiting Physicians
Dr Ahmed Sallam
Dr Stephanie West
Gulf Eye Center is hosting two visiting physicians Dr Stephanie West and Dr Ahmed Sallam. Dr West is a British Consultant Ophthalmologist and specialises in children’s eye problems as well as adults’ including cataracts and strabismus (squint, crossed eyes). Her consultation dates are 30th November, 2013 and 1st December, 2013. Dr Sallam is Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Gloucestershire Hospitals and Honorary Lecturer at University of Bristol in the UK. He specialises in retinal surgery and treatment of ocular inflammation. His consultation dates are 21st and 22nd December, 2013. To book appointments call on Tel. +973 1723 9171 / +973 3354 0976.
Qatar Airways’ Additional Routes Qatar Airways announced the addition of Sharjah and Dubai World Central as its newest routes to the UAE with 14 flights per week to each destination. Beginning the 1st March 2014, the airline will operate twice daily to Sharjah International Airport and twice daily to Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International Airport from its hub in Doha. In addition to Dubai World Central and Sharjah, Qatar Airways’ network will grow further over the next few months with Clark Manila International Airport, Philippines (27th October), Philadelphia, USA (2nd April, 2014) and Miami, USA (10th June 2014).
Dream World Central
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 103
Cars
S W E CAR N Almoayyed Motors’ Value Deals Campaign Almoayyed Motors, the exclusive distributor of Ford and Lincoln vehicles has launched its Value Deals Campaign that will be running until the end of 2013. The exciting promotion offers customers discounts of up to BD1,500 on selected SUVs and Sedans. Ford Focus With a 1.6L and 100 HP engine, it is a popular choice for young drivers looking for a stylish car with state of the art performance technologies. It is also equipped with an ABS braking system and dual zone automatic ACs. Taurus Exhibiting a bold design that matches its roaring 3.5L V6 263 HP engine, it offers the latest technology which guarantee you maximum safety while you drive.
“The exciting promotion offers customers discounts of up to BD1,500 on selected SUVs and Sedans.”
Ford Figo The Figo is a smart choice for your daily use. With a 1.6L 101 HP engine it offers great strength and safety.
Ford Edge Having a bold aerodynamic exterior, the Edge features a V6, 3.5L engine giving out 286 HP, making it an impressive performer. The Edge also provides the driver with technology at their fingertips.
Ford Escape It is fitted with a 2.5L iVCT I-4 engine which pumps 168 HP. It also represents advanced engineering and has the latest technologies.
Kia Motors Global Headquarters
Ford Explorer Adventurous and powerful, it has a V6 3.5L, 290 HP engine and is spacious enough to seat up to seven passengers comfortably. It also allows you to select the terrain settings to maximise performance and adapt to your preference. The Explorer is the ideal choice for bigger families.
For your test drive visit the showroom in Sitra or call on Tel. +973 1773 7373.
Kia Motors Climbs Up Four Places in Top 100 Brand List Volkswagen Middle East announced Hamad Al Fardan and LouayAl Majed as music stars for the regional competition ‘Your Music. Das Auto.’ Designed to discover and support new musical talent in the region, the the competition is now at its final stage. The competition has received a great response from creative regional songsters, with the ‘Your Music. Das Auto.’ Facebook page reaching over 2,773,723 people. Participants created their own tracks which include the specially commissioned Volkswagen beat and the winner will receive a once in a life time opportunity to create their own music video.
104 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
‘Your Music. Das Auto.’ builds on the strong heritage that Volkswagen has in supporting global music initiatives. For more than 15 years, the Volkswagen Sound Foundation has supported new artists and bands by providing them with tour buses, sponsorship, promotion and coaching. Music lovers can vote for their favourite finalist on the ‘Your Music. Das Auto.’ Facebook page: https://www.facebook. com/VolkswagenMiddleEast/ app_617259068308741 For more information visit: www.volkswagen-bahrain.com
Cars
T
he launch of the new BMW 4 Series Coupé marks the arrival of the fourth generation of BMW’s sporty premium mid-size Coupé. Beautifully designed and available in a range of attractive colours, the BMW 4 Series Coupé represents the epitome of aesthetic appeal and sporty dynamics in the premium segment and reinforces the company’s claims to leadership in the international marketplace. The “4” in its title headlines this new era for the Coupé and emphasises not only its stand-alone design, but also its even sharper sporting dynamics, increased exclusivity and clear technical differentiation from the BMW 3 Series range. At the same time, BMW is using the new nomenclature to latch onto the fine tradition established by the large BMW 6 Series and BMW 8 Series Coupés. The new BMW 4 Series Coupé has a longer wheelbase, wider track and lower ride height than the BMW 3 Series Coupé it replaces. Its lower suspension brings the car’s centre of gravity down to below 500 millimetres, giving it the lowest centre of gravity of any car in the current BMW model line-up. The interior of the BMW 4 Series Coupé presents stylish
The BMW 4 Series Coupé fusion of sporting allure and exclusivity. All the controls central to driving are arranged ergonomically around the driver and give him or her optimum access to all functions. Though a coupe the interior is pretty comfortable and stands out with various
chrome elements, such as the surround for the audio and air conditioning system. High-gloss wood strips, leather seats with distinctive stitching and a choice of two upholstery variants in four classically elegant colours highlight the exclusivity of the Luxury Line. Exclusively available as an option for
the BMW 4 Series, Ash Grain anthracite fine wood trim surfaces and a Pearl Gloss Chrome metal inlay round off the Luxury Line features. The sporting two-door model will be available powered by the following engines: the six-cylinder in-line petrol engine in the BMW 435i Coupé, the four-cylinder petrol unit for the BMW 428i Coupé and the four-cylinder diesel for the BMW 420d Coupé. All the engines work using the latest BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and cover an output spectrum stretching from 184 hp to 306 hp. These state-of-the-art engines not only imbue the BMW 4 Series Coupé with outstanding acceleration and elasticity but they also join forces with the car’s intelligent lightweight construction concept to deliver further improvements in driving dynamics and lower fuel consumption and so the eco conscious driver has every reason to smile. All in all a great ride for those who love their machine stylish and sporty. We call dibs on the red one! For your test drive visit the showroom in Sitra and for further information log onto euromotors.com.bh
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 105
Cars “The new Yaris has a comfortable and roomy interior and comes with a 1.5 L and a 1.3 L engine alternative.”
The Toyota Yaris 2014 Iconic and bold, yet simply designed, the all-new Toyota Yaris is impressive and elegant. The overall length has been increased by 11cm, and the overall width of the vehicle has grown by 1cm. The height of the new Yaris has also been increased by 1.5cm. The result is a highly aerodynamic body with a wider and more masculine stance with increases in both headroom and passenger volume. Moreover, the new Yaris has a comfortable and roomy interior and comes with a 1.5 L and a 1.3 L engine alternative with the option of a 4 speed automatic gearbox or a 5 speed manual gearbox. The 1.5 L engine has a maximum output of 107
HP. The 1.3 L engine has a maximum output of 84 HP. From a safety perspective, this salon offers an impressive array of safety features and is loaded with the latest technologies and innovations. Toyota is a household name in Bahrain and the huge network of parts and service support of Ebrahim K Kanoo is inline with Toyota’s commitment to excellence, continuous development and creativity. The new Yaris is available with special prices starting from BD4,999 in addition to 4 years/150,000 km amongst other
advantages that Ebrahim K Kanoo offers to the Toyota customers in Bahrain. For a test drive visit the showroom in Sitra or call on Tel. +973 1773 0730.
EAMCO’s New Hino Trucks
(From Right) Brett Mommsen, Abbas Mulla, Arun Kumar (Sr Sales Manager, Motorcity), Eusebio Teles (Transport & Maintenance Manager at EAMCO), Rajeev Kumar Singh, Amjesh Asokan
106 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Motorcity, the sole distributor of Hino Motors Limited in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has delivered the new fleet of Hino trucks to Eastern Asphalt & Mixed Concrete Company WLL (EAMCO), a market leader in asphalt and ready-mix concrete operations in the Kingdom of Bahrain. These new Hino trucks are mounted with 4 CBM tipper bodies. Arun Kumar, Senior Sales Manager at Motorcity handed over the keys of the Hino trucks to Eusebio Teles, Transport & Maintenance Manager at EAMCO at Motorcity Showroom in Nuwaidrat. Motorcity’s deep rooted presence in Bahrain with its expertise in the commercial and industrial sector has set the bench mark for high standard, quick and efficient service to the commercial transport business operators.
For further information visit Motorcity Commercial Showroom in Nuwaidrat or call on Tel. +973 1770 2111.
Cars
2014 Ssanyong
Korando
Nick Cooksey gets behind the wheel of Ssanyong’s latest budget SUV.
S
UVs are a popular choice in this region due to larger average family size and cheap fuel. What makes the Ssanyong Kondor stand out in an already crowded market is that it is spacious and budget-friendly. The Kondor’s 2014 model is a revised version of the 2010 one, and has received new interiors, more equipment, and a facelift on the outside. New projector-type headlights and LED daytime running lights have been added, as well as chrome radiator grilles and air intakes. Designed by the legendary stylist Guigiaro, it’s also not a bad looking car. The Korando’s best attribute is interior space. Rear seat passengers have plentiful leg and headroom, making it comfortable for the whole family on longer drives. The luggage area is quite generous, and the read seats recline and fold flat in case you need more space.
It represents great value for money, offering a generous selection of features for the price range. These include a dual remote keyless entry system; parking aid system; audio control on steering wheel; 6 speaker audio system with CD,USB memory slot & auxiliary port; tinted glass for privacy; lumbar support on driver seat;
“The Kondor’s 2014 model is a revised version of the 2010 one, and has received new interiors, more equipment, and a facelift on the outside.”
cruise control; trip computer; and a roof rail to tie the kid’s bicycle to. Ssanyong is also committed to passenger safety, and the Korando is fitted with an electronic stability programme. Entry-level models are front-wheel drive, but there is the option of four-wheel drive. However, the four-wheel drive variety only sends torque rearwards when required, so it’s not recommend for serious off-road driving. On the road, its 150hp, 2.0 litre petrol engine is quite capable. Gear shifts are somewhat shaky, but the Korando makes up for that in muscle—it could easily tow your jet ski to Amwaj and back without breaking a sweat
For your own test drive, contact Motorcity SsangYong Showroom at Sanad on +973 1762 1162
The author of this article, Nick Cooksey, In addition to being publisher of Arabian Magazines is a jury panel member of the Middle East Motor Awards. November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 107
Pets
Home! Looking For A BSPCA Animals
Bayou
Jethro
Salsa
Jasper
Morgan
If only animals could talk, you’d be hearing their sad, pitiful stories. But since they can’t, we are giving these adorable creatures a voice. One way or another, they have been hurt and abused in ways you would not imagine a human doing to another creature, and yet the fact remains that these animals end up abandoned and left for dead all over the Kingdom. If you’re thinking of buying a pet, please don’t - instead, adopt one today.
Sparkle
Carmen
Spice
Bunny
Tara
Tosca Sweep
Interested in Adopting?
Visit the BSPCA in Animal Welfare Centre in Askar, see www.bspca.org for directions. Open for adoption viewing Sunday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday and Saturday, 9am to 1pm. Tel. +973 1759 1231.
Tony The Dogfather
Interested in Adopting?
Call Tony ‘The Dogfather’ Waters on Tel. +973 3962 9889 or visit www.thedogfatherbahrain.com
Do you have animal concerns? Need a vet? Call Animal Care Clinic in Hamala, Tel. +973 1761 2459 or Nonie Coutts, Tel. +973 1724 5515.
108 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Opinion
Taste Life! Throw away the gadgets and connect with your food, says John Ridley.
Use your hands and connect with your food!
“I especially enjoy testing recipes to be included in my cookbooks, and sharing the results with family at the kitchen table - the heart of the home.” fuller, more tart, flavour than if made with supermarket milk. I’ve always equated food with love and friendship; I especially enjoy testing recipes to be included in my cookbooks, and sharing the results with family at the kitchen table the heart of the home. Experimenting in the kitchen should be fun, especially licking the spoon used to blend a marinade, or mix a cake; if you are unsure how it will taste, get the children to try it first. Home cooking does not require a kitchen cluttered with gadgets, I must confess, I did once own a yoghurt maker, but when I got married it was consigned to the bottom of a box stacked in the back of the garage; there it stayed for many years before being moved to the window of a charity shop. Today, I make yoghurt by covering a pan of cultured milk with cling film and leaving in a warm place for a few hours. All but the most basic of gadgets separate the cook from the food and, of course, the final result; I’ll admit to having friends who own electric waffle makers, cup cake makers, egg boilers, and even an electric pasta cooker - I use a pan of boiling salted water on top the stove. If food is your love, follow your passion, throw away the gadgets, handle food, and connect with what you eat. Now, I must get back to hand kneading bread - the best stress reliever known to man
M
y wife recently expressed her concern over the pleasure I get from watching milk boil! Needless to say, I also enjoy straining homemade yoghurt - watching the whey drain from the curds; a pleasure that would be lost were I to use a kitchen gadget sold under the pretext of making yoghurt. Wherever possible I make, or source from known suppliers, the basic ingredients used in my cooking; yoghurt must be one of the easiest to make. In the UK, I have found a local farmer who, out of site of the local policeman, is prepared to discreetly drop a few litres of fresh unpasturised milk into the boot of my car; the yoghurt has a much
John R Ridley
Scoop out that creamy avocado with a spoon instead!
John Ridley is a Bahrain based journalist, broadcaster and writer, he can be contacted at john@johnridley.nu or john@ghostwriting.me
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 109
Gastro
Authentic Lebanese Cuisine With A Twist Why Leila? It’s the story of a young beautiful girl who grew up in the breathtaking mountains with her grandmother who taught her all the secrets of the Lebanese Kitchen. Running this tradition through generations, Leila decided to take these traditions to the city where everyone was waiting to try something new. That is how, Leila Restaurant came into existence. The restaurant has been putting smiles on people’s faces with their Lebanese rural authenticity, signature recipes and fresh taste.
Sit back and let Leila take you back to the good old days.
Leila Restaurant, a part of Global Food Concepts WLL, Bahrain that is a subsidiary of Al Kharafi Global in Kuwait is located in Al A’ali Mall in the Seef District. With gorgeous interiors, Leila offers customers a warm atmosphere to dine. They do what they do best. Take it all out traditional! Even the interiors, displays complement the restaurant and the theme. Traditional décor complement the variety of Lebanese deliciousness that the restaurant serves. It is definitely the ideal family dining destination.
Bahrain Confidential found people talking about Leila. Check it out!
“They have nice desserts.” “Really nice interiors. It’s very inviting. The Rose Drink is very interesting.”
“Heloooo grills” “The chicken wings and fata eggplant is a must try.”
110 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
“Ghazal Beirut dessert is yummy.” “ You must try the Taouk Man’ousheh with cheese and tomato. Their rice pudding is a definite.” For bookings and delivery, call, Tel. +973 1756 6556 or visit: www.leilarestaurant.com
Gastro
Bahrain’s First Amateur Cooking Competition Fortunato Giordano, Executive Chef
We learnt from the cooking classes that we host every once a week that people want to get into our kitchen and get more involved with our ingredients and cook. That is when we came up with the idea of combining learning, cooking and competitiveness together to encourage the contestants. We are offering very attractive prizes for the winners. At the same time, regular guests can come in and enjoy a meal while watching the contestants battle for the BIG WIN! This has to be the first of its kind in Bahrain, according to our knowledge.” - Peter Lyons, General Manager
It’s Going to Be One Heck of a Sprint To the Finish line.
Who says only chefs can cook? If you love food and want to have a good time, it’s all you need to participate. Register now, now, NOW!
Cucina Italiana, part of Bahrain Family Leisure Company, is launching its first amateur cooking competition called, “Italian Master Chef 2013” The competition is open to all nonprofessional cooking enthusiasts creating their own Italian delights in a fun way at Cucina’s kitchen. Cucina desires to boost local interest in culinary arts and especially Italian cuisine while offering an interesting alternative to its already popular cooking classes. Each heat will square 6 contestants in a battle of culinary skill. Contestants will be pre-briefed on the available produce and ingredients, creating an Italian style dish in under 45 minutes. The contestants will only be able to use limited ingredients and will have to create and present their first dish to a panel of judges including Cucina’s Executive Chef Fortunato. The judges will evaluate each dish and score according to taste, authenticity, balance and presentation, declaring winners who will move through to the Semifinals. The grand finale, scheduled for late December will push the remaining contestants to deliver a three course meal in 1 ½ hours. The Winner of Italian Master Chef will receive a coveted Winner’s apron, trophy, certificate as well as other prizes but probably the most noteworthy prize is that one of the winning dishes will be featured on Cucina’s upcoming 2014 menu.
If you think you have what it takes, read on! Registration Fee: BD25 STAGES OF COMPETITION: 1st Stage - Elimination Tentative Dates: Time: 5.30pm to 7pm 12th November, Tuesday 17th November, Sunday 19th November, Tuesday 24th November, Sunday 26th November, Tuesday 1st December, Sunday 2nd Stage - Semi-Final 8th December, Sunday 10th December, Tuesday 3rd Stage - Grand Finals 18th December, 2013, Wednesday Registration for the Italian Master chef competition is now open with heats running all through November. All ingredients will be provided by the restaurant and help will be on hand after the registration process should contestants have any questions. Join Cucina Italiana in boosting the interest in culinary arts! To participate or for more details, Tel. +973 1700 1317 or email: marketing@bflc.com.bh
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 111
Gastro
Executive Lunchboxes At Maki Bahrain. Drop by Maki Bahrain for some delicious treats; Maki’s Executive Bento Lunchbox is based on the typical Japanese Bento “lunch tray”, which dates back to the 5th Century and comprised simple meals that nourished the hard-working Japanese farmers. Try the Tara II Bento with tender salmon sashimi slices, sumptuous salmon sushi, one Tara II maki roll, delicious Goyza (dumplings), refreshing cabbage salad, and nutritious fried rice. Satiate your Japanese fusion food cravings with Issa Bento Issa Maki, cabbage salad, salmon sushi, sesame chicken, and steamed rice. You can also replace Issa Maki with any one of the staple, tasty rolls such as: Cassava Mame Maki, Majed Mame Maki, or Wazani II Mame Maki. Other Executive Bento Lunchboxes include Sushi and Sashimi Bento Lunchbox, and Wazani II Bento Lunchbox, which exclusively includes cooked items. The best part is these affordable tasty “treats” which are well-deserved by any
hard-working executive are available for both dine-in, or for delivery to your office doorstep! They are quick, convenient and wholesome! Enjoy these delicacies for lunch, starting at BD5.
Fridays and public holidays. Lounge open until 2am on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and public holidays, and until 1am on other days.
Visit Maki Bahrain at Bahrain World Trade Centre
For reservations call, Tel. +973 1752 2733 or +973 3699 9102 or email: maki.bahrain@olivermaki.com
Open Daily: 12pm until 11.30pm and until 12 mid night on Wednesdays, Thursdays,
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa
The Domain Bahrain A Very Grown-up Brunch Enjoy great food and music at Le Domain [34] and Le Sauvage brunch, every Friday from 12pm to 4pm. Prices start at BD19++ Business Lunch Le Domain [34] and La Sauvage offer a set business lunch menu for BD11++ for a twocourse lunch and BD13++ for three courses, from Sunday to Thursday. Early Bird Dinner Enjoy early dinner at Le Domain [34] and Le Sauvage, between 6pm and 8pm every day along with a bottle of house grape beverages on the house. Offer valid until 30th November All three offers valid until 30th November. For bookings please call, Tel. +973 16000 222 or visit: www.thedomainhotels.com
Sheraton Bahrain Thanksgiving 28th November, At Al Safir Restaurant Bring along the family and for every paying parents two children can dine for free. Buffet lunch is priced at BD13.9++ Turkey with complete trimmings plus vegetables/potatoes
112 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
at BD65 plus 5 per cent government levy for a minimum of 7 to 8 kilos per turkey. Orders should be placed one day in advance.
French Cuisine With Michelin Star Chef Gilles Choukrou Enjoy Choukrou’s signature combination of mint, basil and coriander along with numerous unusual ingredients from wild herbs to passion fruit and even chocolate! Others Tradional Indian Cuisine At Masala Mahal Mouthwatering BBQ Nights all throughout November Gourmet Wine Tasting Lobster Treats At Wok Restaurant
Seafood Promotion During November, At Soie Items include Daxia Wok - fried fillet of dory fish Manchurian at BD3.9++; Kuye Sautéed Cuttle Fish with bamboo shoots, straw mushroom in spicy Szechwan sauce at BD4.5++; Jiujiang Udong Noodles with hammour, shrimps, calamari and vegetables at BD4.9++; Quingshui’s Spicy Minced Hammour Dumplings with chili garlic sauce at BD5.9++; Pan Fried Dashi Scallops with snow peas in yellow beans sauce at BD7.9++ For bookings call, Tel. +973 1753 3533 or visit: sheratonbahrain.com/soiebahrain.com
Michelin Star Chef Gilles Choukrou
Gastro
Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Barbeque Night in Nasmat Venue: Nasmat Date: Thursday, 7th, 14th and 21st Nov. Time: 7.30pm to 10.30pm Price: BD16++ inclusive of one soft drink Thanksgiving Feast Venue: Saveur Date: Thursday, 28th November Time: 7pm to 11.30pm Price: BD16++ inclusive of one soft drink; BD28++ inclusive of select beverages
Expess Lunch At Saveur Venue: Saveur Date: Sunday to Thursday Time: 12.30pm to 3.30pm Price: BD10 net inclusive of one soft drink Christmas Turkey Boxes Venue: Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre Date: 13th to 31st December for pick-up only Time: Reserve from 29th November; pick-up between 13th and 31st December Price: Ten to twelve people for BD70++/13 to 17 people for BD95 ++/18 to 22 people for BD130++ For reservations and further information call, on Tel. +973 1717 1441 email: restaurants.bahrain@kempinski.com
Taste Of Asia Venue: Mezzanine Lounge Date: Open daily Time: 11am to 1am
Santa’s Culinary Wonderland Venue: Saveur Date: Every Saturday (30th November, 7th, 14th and 21st December) Time: 3pm to 6pm Price: BD8++ for children under twelve years, BD13++ for adults, free for children under three years; inclusive of soft beverages Festive Family Brunch Venue: Baharat Date: Every Friday (29th November, 6th, 13th and 20th December) Time: 12.30pm to 4pm Price: BD28++ inclusive of select beverages; BD19++ inclusive of soft drinks; children zero to six years eat free, children seven to twelve years eat half price Al La Carte At Baharat Venue: Baharat Date: Open daily except Sundays, Buffet on Friday Time: 7pm till 11pm
114 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
menu and one soft beverage. If your meal is not served in 20 minutes, it is on us! BD7.5++. 11.30am to 3.30pm.
Tuesday Legendz Steakhouse “Meat your match”
with the 5-course steak dinner with unlimited selected wines. BD22++. Friday LegendzSteakHouse9-course steak brunch at BD21++, inclusive of house
For bookings call, Tel. +973 1727 7777.
Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Poolside BBQ
Table BBQ priced at BD7.9++ per person every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday starting from 6pm onwards.
Christmas Tree Lighting Venue: Lobby, Kempinski Grand Hotel Bahrain City Centre Date: Friday, 29th November
Winter Delicacies Venue: T-Spoon Date: Throughout December Time: 9am to 11pm on week days; 9am to 12am on weekends
Sunday to Friday Medzo Business Lunch. Two-course
beverages. A completely new brunch concept. 11.30am to 3.30pm.
Cooking Classes Venue: Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre Date: Saturday, 9th November - festive baking Wednesday, 20th November - festive turkey Time: 3pm to 6pm Price: BD25++ per person per class
Win At Gingerbread Houses Village Venue: Lobby, Kempinski Grand Hotel Date: 1st to 24th December
InterContinental Regency Bahrain
Seafood Night
Cucina Italiana Lunch Deal: Order one starter, main course and softdrink. BD6 net. Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 3pm Buy 1 Pizza and get 1 Focaccia Pizze FREE! Sunday to Thursday.
12pm to 3pm
Cooking Classes: BD10 net. Two dishes and complimentary drink. Italian Master Chef Competition 2013. Open to all amateur and lovers
of Italian cooking. Registration Fee BD25 only
For bookings call, Tel. +973 1700 1317.
Bennigan’s Breakfast: 6am to 11am daily. 1kg Steak Challenge: Receive a ten
per cent discount voucher, Bennigan’s Steak Knife and T-shirt. Get your name of the wall of fame! Everyday. BD25. Ultimate Burger: Served with twisted fries. Only BD8.5 For bookings call, Tel. +973 1781 3750.
Every Monday. Seafood night BD18.2++ per person or opt for the Seafood night “plus” BD22.3++ per person. Including wines, beer and soft drinks, served 7pm to 11pm Discover Asia
Every Tuesday. Enjoy exotic salads, sushi and sashimi, tasty Vietnamese spring rolls, crispy Peking Duck, Pho station, Thai curry, Dim Sum, and Terriaky. Discover Asia buffet priced at BD15++ with soft drinks, or BD19++ per person inclusive of unlimited selected wines and beers. Thursday Night Brunch
Experience Thursday Night Brunch every
Gastro Thursday from 7th November. BD22++ per person. Elite Resort & Spa
Friday Family Brunch
Served every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm and perfectly priced for just BD24++ per person with free unlimited selected beverages. 50 per cent off for children from six to twelve years and less than six years eat for free.
keep the mood upbeat as you relax with a cup of tea and perhaps a second helping of dessert. BD12 for adults and BD6 for kids under the age of 11.
Elite Grand Hotel Hot Grill Night
Rates are subject to 15 per cent service charge and 5 per cent government levy.
Come and enjoy a succulent array of meats including lamb chops, steaks, chicken wings, shishtaook, makanek and many more items grilled to your taste. When: Every Thursday Where: H2O Price: BD10 net inclusive of Shisha
For bookings call, Tel. +973 1746 0000 or email: hotel.Bahrain.fb@moevenpick.com
Elite Resort & Spa
Catch of the Day
Paelleras Night
Add some Spanish zing to your week with the best selection of paellas, made from the freshest ingredients and most fragrant rice. The atmosphere is completed by the live entertainment and warm hospitality. BD15 net per person. When: Every Wednesday from 7.30pm onwards Where: Al Noor Tent
begins; enjoy soothing music and barbecue all evening long at the poolside. When: Every Saturday at 7.30pm Where: Waikiki Aqua Fiesta Friday
Thursday Night Grills
Feast on a meat bazaar with marinades and toppings of your choice cooked by our chefs at the seaside with a large choice of sauces and pasta. BD12 per person. When: Every Thursday at 7.30pm Where: Waikiki Chillout Saturday
The ideal setting before the new week
Enjoy a hearty Arabic buffet with your family and kids. Starting with a broad selection of mezzes, we move on to live grills, traditional main courses, and finally delectable desserts. The spread also features international favourites. Walk around the poolside, get traditional henna designs, have a Bassara (fortune teller) unravel the mysteries of your future or take a turn at holding a falco; your kids can enjoy special games while live singers
Enjoy the freshest sea food; select your fish and tell the chef how you like it cooked; you just cannot miss the all-youcan-eat-buffet When: Every Saturday Where: H2O Price: BD10 net inclusive of Shisha For reservations & further information call, Tel. +973 1731 3333.
Passion
Passion is an exotic getaway in the heart of Bahrain’s restaurant district, Adliya and serves international cuisines from a range of specialist kitchens. The ambiance is relaxing with great outdoors, rooftops and water features which are sure to ignite your passion. For bookings and further information call on Tel. +973 3912 3086.
Where’s The Party Tonight! 1st November, Friday. Halloween Party - featuring the ultimate
Michael Jackson tribute act by Danny Oliver. Wranglers Bar, Juffair Grand Hotel, Juffair. BD3 for guys, Ladies FREE! Tel. +973 3983 1380 for more information.
2nd November, Saturday. Hawaiian Luau for all ages - by the
pool - Hawaiian themed beverages, food and entertainment for adults and children. Beachside and pool games and BBQ lunch starting at 1pm. Live music provided by Muju’s duo band. Muju, Dragon Hotel, Amwaj Islands and Resort. FREE Entry! For details email events@ amwaj.bh or visit Amwaj Islands or Muju Restaurant’s FB pages.
8th November, Friday. Gatsby Dinner - Anna sings Ella, Eartha
and Edith - dig out your spats and flapper dresses and join us at Upstairs Downstairs for a Gatsby-themed night of jazz with Anna Thompson-Hall of the Manama Singers in aid of Tony the Dogfather’s Animal Rescue Centre. Upstairs Downstairs Restaurant, Adliya. BD20 inclusive of buffet dinner - all profits going to animal welfare - book your tickets NOW! Tickets are available from Upstairs Downstairs or through The Dogfather’s Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre page on Facebook or call, Tel. +973 3956 4585 or 3980 1393.
For more on the latest nightlife check out our nightlife pages.
Clubshot Credits: www.rukes.com
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 115
Nightlife
KLUB360
Groove to some great music by DJ Holly Rich; this 21 year old has a broad musical style, including; Hip-Hop, Top 40, House, Electro, Rock and everything in-between and incorporates visuals into her sets to create one of a kind AV/DJ experiences. She holds residencies at the most exclusive EDM venues nationwide. Date: Thursday, 21st November 2013 Tickets: Men BD5, Woman – FREE
For reservations and further information call on Tel. +973 3336 0300 or visit: klub360.com
Shift 7 Ladies Night everyday except
Thursday.
Karaoke Night every Saturday.
Bora Bora REHAB Pool Party every Friday. Free entrance. Amazing offers on beverages all day long.
Zodiac Lounge Every Monday Bubbly Night - Ladies night/Free drinks (list selection) 8pm till closing Every Tuesday Candy Night - Colourful smoky drinks with a pinky theme/candy Jars Every Wednesday Drinks & Sing - Karaokee Night/Free round for the best voice - Arabic - English Tagalog - Indian. Every Friday Drink & Sing - Karaokee Night/Free round for the best voice - Arabic - English - Tagalog - Indian. Every Saturday Retro Night - Oldies music 80’s and 90’s music
116 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Diplomat Radisson Blu Radisson Night Out 14th November, Thursday at Kontiki Pool side Enjoy and have fun with the new in-house Band Black Note & DJ Ram beats at BD24 net per person with kids’ entertainment including: Chaine des Rotisseurs 28th November, Wednesday At Al Fanar This is a private event. Italian Aperitivo 28th November, Thursday At Mondo Unwind at Mondo and get your first drink with a classic Italian Aperitivo buffet at BD10
from 6pm onwards and enjoy Fabio Tolu’s. For reservations and further information call on Tel. +973 3994 5208 or email: info.diplomat@radissonblu.com
Sheraton Bahrain BBQ Promotion At An Nada Lounge The weather is perfect for outdoor BBQ but we can still offer you some indoor while enjoying your favourite drinks at An Nada Lounge. For reservations and further information call on Tel. +973 1753 3533 or visit sheratonbahrain.com
Please be aware that timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.
Nightlife
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa DJ Party Music lovers can get their groove on till the early morning as the resident DJ fills the air with beats to get any feet moving. Enjoy the outdoors, freshly prepared drinks and fun ambience while making new friends. Wine Tasting Try something different for a change and provoke your taste buds through a series of different wine tastings paired with gourmet canapés and distinguished cheese platters. For reservations and further information call on Tel. +973 1763 6363 or email: H6722@sofitel.com
The Domain Bahrain Txoko Nights Sundays: Head to Txoko for Sunset Sundays where we will offer 2 drinks for the price of 1, from 5pm until 7pm. Perfect way to wind down after a busy day. Mondays: All those working in finance and legal sector can enjoy a 50 per cent off on selected beverages from 6pm until 8pm. Terms and conditions apply. Wednesdays Ladies Special: Bring four of your girlfriends and receive a complementary bottle of bubbly from 9pm until 11pm. Exciting surprises and giveaways awaiting all the ladies. Saturday, 16th of November: All the concierge teams of Bahrain bring your business card along and we will take care of you the whole night with free drinks for all. All above offers valid until 30th November. For reservations and further information call on Tel. +973 1600 0222 or email: connect@thedomainhotels.com or visit: thedomainhotels.com
Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Kempinski Grand Ixir Hotel & Spa From Bureau to Bar Venue: Mezzanine Lounge, Kempinski Grand Hotel Bahrain City Centre Date: Sunday to Thursday Time: 6pm to 8pm Price: Buy one get one free on selected beverages
Ramee Monroe The Hub
Bizzare Thursdays Venue: Bizarre Lounge, Kempinski Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre Date: Every Thursday Time: 9pm to 2am For reservations and further information call on Tel. +973 1717 1441 or email: restaurants.bahrain@kempinski.com
Ramee Monroe Hotel & Suites
The Hub Groove and sip on signature drinks at The Hub. Enjoy Canadian, Australian & Columbian Band (Shock Waves) performing every night, flown in from London. English DJ Simon Oakey offers some foot tapping music for you all night. For reservations and further information call on Tel. +973 1729 6699.
Crowne Plaza Harvesters Pub & Terrace FBI Night – 50 per cent discount for all
colleagues in the food & beverage industry in Bahrain. Cocktail Night - every Saturdays and Tuesdays, Buy 1 & get 1 free on selected cocktails. Ladies Night - every Mondays and Fridays, ladies enjoy unlimited selected beverages on Monday & 2 free drinks on Friday. 4 Pint Pitcher Night - Every Wednesdays, Quench your thirst with a pitcher of selected beverages. For bookings and further information call on Tel. +973 1753 1122
Please be aware that timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.
Bushido Wine Flight: Monday, 4th November 6pm to 8pm. BD10 to participate. Pretty Pink Friday: Friday 29th November 9.30pm - late. Ladies enjoy free drinks. Music delivered by special guest DJ Pretty Pink and resident DJ Dara Singh. Absolutely Geisha: Every Wednesday 8pm to 11pm. Free drinks coupons for ladies and 40 per cent off “Absolutely” cocktails for all guests. Music delivered by resident DJ Dara Singh. Absolutely Geisha presents DJ Huss and Special Guest: Wednesday
20th November 8pm to late. Free drinks coupons for ladies and 40 per cent off “Absolutely” cocktails for all guests. Enjoy a selection of free welcome Geisha-bites (served until 11pm) and live fire-show entertainment. Afterwork: Everyday 5pm to 8pm, buy 1 get 1 free on selected beverages. For reservations and further information call on Tel. +973 1758 3555.
Mai Tai Lounge Wahine Tuesdays
Every Tuesday from 6pm. Ladies receive free drinks coupons upon entry and complimentary Trader Vic’s Tid-Bits. For reservations and further information call, Tel. +973 1758 3555.
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 117
People “From the ages 19 to 21, I was diagnosed with a severe case of Anorexia Nervosa. It is serious and has nothing to do with food. Unfortunately, the aid for this type of thing is extremely scarce and even with what minimal aid we have, it is difficult to treat each case as unique. I personally had to travel outside Bahrain to receive help and after all the research and experience. I believe I can help. If you know of someone/are suffering from this, I urge you to get in touch. It can take you away faster than you know. Help me raise awareness.”
Unlocking The Doors Of Pure Talent by Jenny Thomas
Bahrain Confidential gets up close and personal with the pretty and talented May Alqasim. Your 1st show. When I was three years old, I sang Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, it was a proud moment! Realistically, my first performance was when I was 14 years old at a Hip Hop dance battle. (And no, I didn’t dance. Singing is what I do best!) Your favourite performance. I was part of an event called “Rising Stars” that was held at the RIA institute (Rehabilitation Institute and Autism). I was performing for a large group of children with a range of different disabilities. As I walked up on stage, I looked at the children and suddenly went completely off script – freestyle singing to the words “I’m a rising star”. It was amazing because all those children sung along with me, raising their hands to the sky. It was one of the most moving experiences and it reminded me the power of music.
118 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
to my outlook on life and has had an impact on the sound and lyrics of my music. Even distasteful things such as poverty can inspire a song. It all comes down to experience. The more experience, the more knowledge, the more room for diversity and growth. How has it been working with famous Hollywood artists like Orlando Jones? At first, it doesn’t really sink in because you treat it as a job. But looking back, I feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. The thing is that I don’t make music to merely sing; I stand for Bahrain and the Arab world. I wanted to prove that it is possible to be from this tiny island and break cultural boundaries. I went in with a mind set thinking, “Why not?” “Are we not good enough?”
How did it feel being with Outlaw Productions? I started out as a “shower singer” (that is the best way I could put it!). Before I knew it, I was joining talent shows, school choirs, etc. Once I turned 13, I met DJ/Producer, DJ Outlaw, who ran an independent label called “Outlaw Productions”. He just so happened to be at one of the venues I was performing at. From then on, I worked closely with DJ Outlaw and team. We recorded, performed at various venues across Bahrain and the GCC. We released an album, multiple mix tapes and EP’s together. In 2011, it was time take my own journey and become an independent artist. During the last two years, I have been traveling and making music with a diverse range of musicians from different backgrounds. I have to say, I’m really happy with the way things are going and am excited for the future.
“Challenge accepted.” On this occasion where I was collaborating with Orlando Jones, I was there to perform along side Jennifer Hudson. I was just supposed to be the supporting act but somehow was invited along to the main stand and found myself in a press conference with some big names – LA Reid being one of them. I remember going home that night after it was all over and just thought, “WOW, so that just happened!”
How has traveling influenced your music? Travelling - One of the BEST parts of what I do! Aside from feeding off different scenery and finding inspiration, it’s exciting, educational and healthy for my music and myself. Each destination I visited has added
Your biggest influence. Through everything, my beautiful mother.
What constitutes the best music ever? Soul, passion and emotion! The best thing you could ever do when making music is allowing yourself to be vulnerable. I look at music as a reflection of the self. When you allow yourself to be real, you encourage people to give back the same.
What’s in store for the future? Musically, a few music videos are planned as well as an EP and hopefully an album to follow
Interview
Bollywood Steps
Pappu (4th from left) and Malu (2nd from left) with the management and organisers
Bollywood Steps, the first of its kind dance school in Bahrain was inaugurated at Ramli Mall, A’ali. Melissa Nazareth breaks a leg with Indian Cinema’s popular choreographers Pappu & Mallu. Bahrain Confidential (BC): There are naturally talented dancers as well as those with two left feet. How do you manage teaching these two types of people who are on totally different levels of dancing, all at the same time.
BC: You have worked with so many celebrities so far; you may have even interacted with them beyond work. Any celeb that you enjoyed working with and interacting with the most and why?
Malu: When we train people who are not born dancers we try and work on their overall body posture etc and so at the end of the day the performance as a whole looks great.
Pappu: We loved Salman Khan, Shahrukh Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Amir Khan and Hrithik Roshan.
Pappu: Sometimes these people with two left feet end up being better dancers than the naturally talented guys. When you love dancing you automatically get better at it.
“Musical theatre is going to be back in a big way.” BC: There are a number of dance forms worldwide and Bollywood has successfully carved a niche for itself among these. Why do you think so? Pappu & Mallu: Bollywood is a melting pot of various dance forms which is why most people worldwide relate to it; there’s Kathak, Hip Hop, Jazz, Odissi, Salsa and more.
120 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Mallu: Among the ladies there’s Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor and Shilpa Shetty. All these people are good at heart and humble which makes them fun to work with. BC: Tell our readers about any funny incident that you may have encountered during a dance sequence.
Bhansali is quite challenging. He makes you work really hard; for instance he prefers us and not our assistants to show him every sequence. Also, he knows a lot about dance and so gives us quite a lot of feedback which we implement. Another challenge is to create something new each time which is typical of most art forms; sometimes it just comes to you and sometimes it just doesn’t. BC: What plans do you guys have for Bollywood Dance Studio? Pappu: We want to make another Pappu Mallu duo in Bahrain. Mallu: We want to impart our knowledge and God-given talent to our students.
Pappu & Mallu: This was during the shoot for the recently released Besharam. There were these two supporting dancers who always ended up running around with bottle gourds which was not a part of the shot. But we realised later that as bizarre as this was it actually turned out to be great and the shot felt incomplete without it.
BC: Your favourite dance form.
BC: What has been your most challenging project so far?
Pappu & Mallu: Musical theatre is going to be back in a big way
Pappu & Mallu: Working with Sanjay Leela
Pappu: Hip Hop Mallu: Bollywood BC: Where do you see Bollywood dancing few years down the line?
Listings
BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE American
Asian
Bennigan’s 1781 3750 Al Safir Hotel, Juffair
Baan Saeng Thai Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/6pm to 12am
Blaze Burgers 1774 4773 Adliya, 11am to 12am Brasa de Brazil 1758 2225 Seef Mall, 12pm to 11pm Burger Lounge 3984 2840 Amwaj, 12pm to 12am Burger Wisconsin 1759 4458 Sa’ar, 11am to 12am Chickey’s 1774 4144 Zinj & 2 other locations, 10am to 1am Chilli’s 1758 1221 Seef Mall and many other locations Downtown Bar 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Bahrain, 4pm to 2am. Elevation Burger 1758 7828 Seef Mall, 12pm to 11pm Fat Burger 1713 1414 Bahrain City Centre & 2 other locations 9am to 1am Franks a Lot 1781 1970 Juffair, 10am to 1am Fuddruckers 1774 2266 Adliya & 4 other locations, 8am to 12am Grub Shack 1713 1363 Al Hamala Hard Rock Café 1729 1569 Exhibition Road, 8am to 1am Jan Burger 1771 2505 Adliya & 5 other locations Johnny Rockets 1756 6565 Al A’ali Complex & 1 other location 8.30am to 1am Melt Restaurant 1749 9900 Shaikh Hamad Avenue, West Riffa & Juffair, a place to sit back and enjoy great burgers, freshly tossed salads, sumptuous sweets, and much more! 11am to 12am
Bali Orchid 1718 0424 Gudaibiya, 12pm to 12am Chin Li 1771 7717 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Curry Country 1753 7555 Juffair, 11am to 2am David’s Stir Fry 1754 0188 Adliya & 1 other location 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Honey’s 3923 8507 Souq, Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 5.30pm/ Friday to Saturday 24 Hours Hot Wok 1717 8083 Bahrain City Centre, 10am to 12am Kontiki Restaurant 1753 1666 Diplomt Radisson Blu Mamy Soup 3919 5343 Exhibition Road, 11am to 11pm Monsoon 1774 9222 Adliya, Saturday to Thursday 12pm to 2.30pm/7pm to 11pm & Friday 7pm to 11pm Nu Asia 1758 7171 Seef, 12pm to 12am Pan Asia 1772 1600 Umm Al Hassam, 11am to 3.30pm/7pm to 11pm Peppers Fusion 1771 7808 Adliya, 11am to 3.30pm/6pm to 12am Pong’s 1753 0800 Exhibition Road Thai Chi 1717 9747 Bahrain City Centre, 12pm to 12am Thai Express 1769 3595 Jawad Dome, Budaiya, 10am to 11.30pm Thailand 1771 7040 Block 338, Adliya, 6.30pm to 11.30pm
Brazilian
Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 1772 5550 Juffair
Brazil 1782 6686 Adliya. Authentic Brazilian Rodizio. All you can eat + beverages BD16.2++, Friday Brunch BD21++
Tony Luke’s 1749 4940 Riffa, 11am to 12am
Cafés
Tony Roma’s 1787 0070 Zayed Town, 12.30pm to 1am
Al Bindaira Café 1774 4066 Adliya, Monday to Thursday 10.30am to 12.30am and Friday 1pm to 1am Al Bareh Art Café 1771 3535 Adliya, 8.30am to 11pm
122 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
A Lounge 1771 0041 Adliya, 11am to 2am
Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite
BUSHIDO
Al Riwaq Café 1771 7441 Adliya, 10am to 9pm Aroma Restaurant & Café 1758 2711 Seef Mall, Open for lunch and dinner Café Ceramique Al A’ali Mall, 9am to 11pm Café Lilou 1771 4440 Adliya & 1 other location Saturday to Thursday 8am to 11pm/ Friday 10am to 11.30pm
The Way of the Warrior For reservations, call Tel. +973 17583555 or email: bushido@bushido.com.bh
Café T 1775 0777 The Royal Golf Club
Sky Walk Café Mariott Executive Apartments, Juffair 6.30am to 11.30pm
Café Sayah 1722 4000 Delmon International Hotel, Open 24 Hours
Tea Club Amwaj Islands 12pm to 12am
Candles Coffee 1771 4844 Adliya, Sunday to Thursday 9am to 1am/ Friday & Saturday 5pm to 1am
Tea Garden 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 7am to 11pm
Caramel 1770 7087 Cyprus Gardens, Budaiya, 8.30am to 12am Columbus Café 1717 2324 Bahrain City Centre, 8am to 12am Crepe Café 7711 5566 Budaiya & 1 other location Sunday to Wednesday 8am to 12am/ Thursday to Saturday 8am to 1am Deli France 1769 6031 Jawad Dome, Budaiya Sunday to Thursday 8am to 10pm/ Friday to Saturday 8am to 11pm Dome Café 1781 0180 Juffair, Open 24 Hours Friend’s Club 1771 3732 Adliya, Saturday to Wednesday 10am to 12am/ Thursday to Friday 10am to 1am La Maison du Café 1771 7524 Adliya, 8am to 2am Le Chocolat Seef District 7.30am to 12am Levante Café 1603 0393 Amwaj, 12pm to 1.30am Maya Chocolat Seef Mall, Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 11pm/ Friday to Saturday 10am to 12am Med Café 1771 3088 Adliya and other locations, 11am to 1am Organic Foods & Café 1333 3285 Seef Mall, 9am to 10pm
Veranda 1771 5868 Adliya and 2 other locations, 9am to 1am Waterlemon 1758 1785 Al A’ali Shopping Complex 10am to 11pm
Chinese Beijing Chinese 1771 7969 Block 338, Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/6pm to 12am China Express 1771 7439 Adliya,12.30pm to 1am China Garden 1774 6423 Gulf Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Ching 1756 4424 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am First Chinese 1771 3603 Adliya, 12pm to 3.30pm/6pm to 12am Foli 1772 2199 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Hong Kong 1772 8700 Adliya Kowloon 1772 5015 Umm Al Hassam,1am to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 12am Magic Wok 1769 4105 American Alley, Juffair, Open Daily 8am to 11pm PF Changs 1717 9757 Bahrain City Centre
Patisseri Valerie MODA Mall, 7.30am to 9pm
Shanghai Hut 1729 2988 Exhibition Avenue 11.30am to 2am
PAUL Bakery & Restaurant 1717 2321 Bahrain City Centre and 1 other location
Soie 1753 3533 Sheraton Hotel
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
Listings
BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE
Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite
MAKI
Fantasy Restaurant 1729 2382 Hoora, 11am to 12am Georgia Chinese 1781 3814 Juffair, 11am to 12am Grand Royal 1772 1787 Umm Al Hassam, 12.30pm to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 1130pm
A Culinary Haven! Located at the Bahrain World Trade Centre. For more information, call Tel. +973 1752 2733
Grill Room Buffet 1769 6660 Budaiya & 1 other location 12.30pm to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Havana 1731 1440 Hoora, 12pm to 1am
Chocolatiers Godiva 1758 0699 Seef Mall, 10am to 10pm Patchi 1725 0501 Manama and 1 other location, 9.30am to 9pm Rawasi Chocola & Flowers Mahooz, 9am to 1.30pm/4pm to 9pm
House Boat 1601 0321 Amwaj, 11am to 11.30pm JJ’s Irish Pub and Restaurant 1774 2323 Adliya, 12pm to 230am Marmaris 1755 3825 Al Daih, 11am to 12am
Fusion
Paprikas 1729 7100 Hoora & 1 other location, 10am to 1am
Al Osra 1749 1492 East Riffa & 3 other locations, 11am to 12am
Paradise 1753 5306 Manama, 9am to 1am
Atayeb Restaurant 1759 0119 Budaiya, 12pm to 4pm/6pm to 11pm
Salt & Pepper 1762 3535 Sanad, 10am to 12am
Block 338 1771 0338 Adliya, 11am to 2am
Saraya 1763 6410 Sofitel Bahrain, 6.30am to 11pm
Bangkok International 1774 0666 Adliya & 1 other location, 10am to 1am
Silk Restaurant 1774 9750 Adliya, 11am to 12pm
Blue Moon 1729 7100 Hoora, 10am to 1am
Spice Nice 1771 3603 Adliya, 12pm to 3.30pm/6pm to 12am
Bu Ali 1724 2432 Zinj & 2 other locations, 10am to 12am
Sun & Sand 1731 1366 Exhibition Avenue, 11am to 2am
Camelot 1771 7745 Adliya, Block 338 12pm to 12am
Tandoor Hut 1771 3874 Adliya, 11am to 1130pm
Caesars 1771 6955 Adliya, 12.30pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.45pm Century International 1771 0100 Adliya & 1 other location 7am to 2am Charcoal Grill 1721 3410 Manama & 1 other location Clay Oven 1771 7008 Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/ 6.30pm to 11.30pm Citrus Restaurant & Café 1774 4950 Adliya, 12pm to 12am Deja Vu 1365 7770 Adliya, 4pm to 2am
Asha’s 1717 9751 Bahrain City Centre Bright Candle 1722 9076 Manama, 11am to 3pm/6pm to 12am Charminar 1726 1896 Manama, 11am to 3pm/6pm to 12am Clay Oven 1771 7008 Adliya, 11.30am to 3pm/6.30pm to 11.30pm Copper Chimney 1772 8699 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Curry Tree 1603 0662 The Lagoon & 2 other locations, 12pm to 12am Hyderabad House 1772 0031 Umm Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am
Nirvana 1758 9318 Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3.30pm/7pm to 11.30pm Papadom 1756 4434 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am Rajdhani 1771 5222 Gudaibiya, 7am to 2am Rasoi 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 6.30pm to 2am Saffron Curry 1722 3014 Enma Mall, 12pm to 12am Sahar 1772 5117 Umm Al Hassam, 8am to 12am Sangeetha 1727 2768 Gudaibiya, 7.30am to 3pm/5.30pm to 11pm
It’s Mirchi 1772 7230 Ramee International Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/ 7pm to 12am
Shamiana 1717 8085 Bahrain City Centre, 10am to 12am
Kalpaka 1729 7000 Windsor Tower Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 2am
Spices 1753 1122 Crowne Plaza, Diplomatic Area, 12pm to 11pm
Khazana 1727 4767 Manama, 7am to 3.30pm/5pm to 12am
Taka Tak 1725 4848 Gudaibiya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm
Lanterns 1759 0591 Budaiya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Now also open in Adliya
The Great Kebab Factory 1769 0629 Jawad Dome, Budaiya 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 12am
Mantra 1721 1133 Best Western Plus Olive Hotel, 12pm to 2am
The Yellow Chilli 1758 0480 Seef Mall, 12pm to 10.30pm
Moti Mahal 1782 5333 Juffair, 12pm to 12am
Vrindavan 1723 4454 Manama, 7am to 3.30pm/4.30pm to 11pm
Mumbai Spice Bahrain Mall, 10am to 10pm
International
Nattinpuram 1729 0600 Ramee Baisan Hotel, 12pm to 12 am
Al Waha Restaurant 1774 6425 Gulf Hotel, Adliya, Open 24 Hours
Tapas Bar 1763 6412 Sofitel Bahrain, 11.30am to 3.30pm/7pm to 12am The Food Station 1725 4007 Marina Mall & 2 other locations, 10am to 10pm Trader Vic’s 1758 6555 Ritz-Carlton Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3.30pm/7.30pm to 11.30am
Indian Aachi’s Chettinand Kitchen 1723 3110 Gudaibiya, 10.30am to 3.30pm/ 5.30pm to 1130pm gomiami.about.com
Akbar 1729 6660 Ramada Palace Hotel 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12.30am
“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.” - J.R.R. Tolkien
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 123
Listings
BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE Rimal 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa, 6.30am to 11pm
Italiano 1758 1919 Al A’ali Complex, 11.45am to 11pm
Salad Boutique 3666 4427 Adliya, 8am to 12am
La Pergola 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel
Café Marisol 1770 1201 Al Bander Hotel & Resort, 7am to 11.30pm
Selections 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel 6.30am to 11.30pm
Little Caesars 1717 9400 Bahrain City Centre & 4 other locations 11am to 12am
Cyprus Taverna 1771 6316 Adliya, 11am to 2pm/4pm to 2am
Silk’s 1746 0000 Mövenpick Hotel
DownTown Lounge 1720 8308 InterContinental Regency Hotel, 5pm to 2am
Tamarind 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa Wednesday to Saturday 12pm to 3pm/ 6pm to 11.30pm & Sunday to Tuesday 12pm to 3pm
Margherita Pizza & Pasta 1772 3133 Umm Al Hassam, 12.30pm to 3.30pm/ 5.30pm to 12.30am
Al Wasmeyah Restaurant 1753 5000 Golden Tulip Hotel, Diplomatic Area Open 24 Hours Bambino 1753 3336 Sheza Tower Hotel, 24 Hours
East West Cuisine 1721 0012 Bahrain Financial Harbour, 8am to 5pm Figs & Olives 1600 0000 The Domain Bahrain, 10am to 12am Fusions 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel Ginger Lounge 1737 0037 Majestic Arjaan by Rotana, 6.30am to 11.30pm Healthy Calorie 1736 9399 Juffair, 8am to 12pm Jim’s Restaurant 1771 0654 Adliya, 11am to 3pm/6pm to 12am La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts 1771 3000 Ras Ruman, 9am to 10.30pm La Med 1758 0000 The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Le Bistro 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel
MASSO 1772 1061 The Palace Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11.30pm
The Gallery 1746 0000 Mövenpick Hotel
Medzo 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel Open for lunch and dinner
Upstairs Downstairs 1771 3093 Adliya, 7am to 11am/12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am
Metro Pizza 1779 4000 Sa’ar, 12pm to 12am
Vins Bistro 1771 7101 Adliya, 10am to 2am
Mia Mia 1756 4414 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am
Yamin Jana Mediterranean Sea Front Lounge 1603 3800 Dragon Hotel & Resort, Amwaj Open 2pm onwards
Mino’s 1774 4777 Adliya, 11am to 12.30am
Zodiac Restaurant 1781 3366 Al Manzil Suites, Juffair, Open 24 hours All day dining offering a wide selection and panoramic views of Juffair from the 15th floor. Zoe 1771 6400 Adliya, Block 338, Saturday to Tuesday, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am & Wednesday to Friday 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 2am Zytoun 1729 8008 Novotel Al Dana Resort 6.30am to 12am
Mondo Restaurant 1753 1666 Diplomat Radisson Blu Ninos 1756 6555 Al A’ali Complex, Seef Pasta Art 1700 1750 Zamil Tower, 8am to 6pm Pastarito 1717 9300 Bahrain City Centre & Durrat Al- Bahrain 11am to 12am
Lemon Tree 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 6.30am to 11.30am
Italian
Pick a Pizza 1772 0929 Umm Al Hassam & 1 other location 12pm to 1am
Links Restaurant 1775 0777 The Royal Golf Club
BICE 1755 3666 MODA Mall, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11.30pm
Pizza Express 1601 0524 The Lagoon Amwaj, 11am to 12am
Little Chef 1759 5950 Budiaya, 12pm to 12am
Café Spasso 1782 2274 New Zinj, Open 830am onwards
Pizza Hut 1771 1113 Manama & 10 other locations, 11am to 1am
Mei N Yu 1601 0160 The Lagoon, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 12am
Café Italia 1774 4774 Adliya and 1 other location 12pm to 3.30pm/7pm to 11.30pm
Pizza Inn 1781 1666 Juffair & 1 other location, 10am to 12am
Muju Restaurant & Lounge 1603 9800 Open 24 Hours Nando’s 1782 5100 Juffair, 11am to 2am Prego 1775 1263 The Royal Golf Club, 11.30am to 12am Primavera 1758 0000 Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Rendezvous 1758 7708 Seef Mall, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm
124 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Carino’s Italian Grill 1758 7878 Seef Tower, 11am to 12am Coco’s Café 1771 3710 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Cucina Italiana 1700 1317 Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, 6am to 2am Fiamma 1763 6363 Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa 12.30pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Gusto Pizzeria 1769 5556 Budaiya,12pm to 11pm
Pizza Bella 1782 7133 Juffair & 1 other location, 11.30am to 11.30pm Pizza Company 1781 1830 Juffair & 1 other location, Open 24 Hours Pomodorino 1700 0121 Adliya, 12pm to 1am Prego 1775 1263 The Royal Golf Club, 11.30am to 12am Primavera 1758 0000 Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm
Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite
MEISEI
A Story of Honour, Elegance and Integrity For reservations, call Tel. +973 1700 7770
Rialto 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 12pm to 11.30pm Rolandos 7732 2222 Juffair 12pm to 12am Roma 1772 5885 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 2.30pm/7pm to 11.30pm Vapiano 1749 1391 Bahrain City Centre, 10am to 10pm
Japanese Bushido 1758 3555 Seef, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 2am EDO 1729 0945 Exhibition Avenue, 11,30am to 12am Fuji Sushi Bar 1753 3336 Sheza Tower Hotel,12.30pm to 12am Frangipani 1758 2422 Seef Mall, 10am to 12am Haji Sushi 1772 5638 American Alley, Juffair, 11am to 11pm Imari 1600 0000 The Domain Bahrain, 6pm to 12am Kei 1753 5000 Golden Tulip Hotel, 12.30pm to 3pm/ 7.30pm to 11pm Maki 1752 2733 MODA Mall, 12pm to 12am Meisei 1700 7770 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Mirai 1771 3113 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Ruka 1711 1999 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, 12.30pm to 2am Sato 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel Sumo Sushi & Bento 1771 8090 American Alley, Juffair, 12pm to 12am
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
Listings
BAHRAIN RESTAURANT GUIDE
Bahrain Confidential’s Favourite
MAI-TAI
Aloha Life! Located at Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa For more information, call Tel. +973 1758 6555
Dalaona Restaurant 1733 0930 Muharraq, 9am to 12am
Takht-e Jamsheed 1774 6431 Gulf Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm
Fakhruddin 1769 5949 Sa’ar, 11am to 11pm
Wafi Gormet 1779 999 Bahrain City Centre, 9am to 12.30pm
Golestan 1753 3533 Sheraton Hotel Sunday to Friday 12.30pm to 2.30pm/7.30pm to 11.30pm
Yalla Yalla 1782 7999 Al Safir Hotel, 6.30pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm
Isfahani 1755 0567 Hoora and other locations, 12pm to 12am Kenza 1736 0000 The K Hotel, 7pm to 2am
Sushi 101 1782 2274 New Zinj Saturday to Thursday, 12pm to 3pm/6pm onwards & Friday 1pm to 4pm/7pm onwards Yo Sushi 1758 3373 Al A’ali Complex, Seef Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 12am/ Thursday to Friday 12pm to 2am
Middle Eastern Al Abraaj 1759 5656 Budaiya and many other locations, 12pm to 12am Al Arisha 1772 5414 Um Al Hassam, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 12am Al-Bokhari 1731 1186 Hoora & 2 other locations, 12pm to 2am
L’lle 1784 5000 Al Areen Palace & Spa, 6pm to 11pm
Leewan Al Khor 1601 0666 Amwaj, 1pm to 11pm
Zayt Zaytoon 1731 2222 Manama & 2 other locations, 7am to 12am
Leila 1756 6556 Seef, 9am to 12am
Zeitouna 1736 5055 Juffair & 4 other locations, 8am to 12am
Marmaris 1755 5909 Sanabis, 11am to 12am
Mexican
Mashawi Lebanese Grill 1733 9014 Muharraq, 12pm to 12am Melh Al Zad 1731 1170 Hoora, 12.30pm to 1am
Al Mukhayam Ramada Palace Hotel 8pm to 1am
Persian 1781 1511 Adliya, 12.30pm to 3.30pm/7.30pm to 12am
Al Shama 1729 7000 Windsor Tower Hotel, 9pm to 2am
Persian Room 1601 0166 Amwaj Islands Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 12am/ Thursday to Friday 12pm to 1am
Café Blanc 1710 0069 Al A’ali Complex, 8am to 12am Carla’s 1769 7687 Cyprus Gardens, Sehla, 12pm to 12am Chakmagia 1755 8500 Dana Mall, 10am to 10pm
Legendz Steakhouse 1722 7777 InterContinental Regency Hotel Open for lunch and dinner
Zahle 1774 6417 Gulf Hotel Monday to Tuesday 7pm to 1am/ Wednesday to Friday 7pm to 2am
Pashawat 1763 6413 Sofitel Bahrain, 7pm to 12am
Baharat 1717 1000 Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel, Bahrain City Centre Wednesday to Friday 8pm to 12am
Klouds 1736 0000 The K Hotel, 6.30am to 2am
Laialy Zaman 1729 3097 Fateh Corniche, 11am to 4am
Kosebasi 1717 2322 Bahrain City Centre
Al Hamra 1722 4000 Delmon International Hotel, Open 24 Hours
Badawi 1729 7799 Manama, 10am to 11pm
Butcher’s Shop & Grill 1717 2323 Bahrain City Centre, 12pm to 11pm
Le Sauvage Meat + Fire 1600 0000 The Domain Bahrain 6.30am to 3pm/6pm to 12am
Momo 1718 0659 Adliya, 8am to 2am
Abd El Wahab 1713 1111 MODA Mall, 12pm to 12am
Yas-e Isfahani 1758 1151 Seef Mall, 10am to 10pm
Brazil 1782 6686 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6pm to 11pm
Zahlawiya 1771 0051 Adliya, 7am to 2pm/4pm to 4am
Al Fanar 1753 1666 Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Open Monday to Saturday 9.30pm to 2am
Al Yacout 1729 8008 Novotel Al Dana Resort, 8pm to 2am
Yamin Jana 1600 3380 The Dragon Hotel & Resort, 7am to 2am
Steak Houses
Qasr Al Sultan Grill 1774 4144 Bahrain City Centre & 1 other location 11am to 12am Rayes 1731 2700 Fateh Corniche, 12pm to 1230am Shawarma Express 1772 9922 Juffair & 5 other locations, 7am to 3am Shoo Fee Ma Fee 1731 1280 Adliya, 10am to 12am Tarwe’a 1724 0046 Manama, Open 24 Hours Taza 1778 4997 Tubli, 12.30pm to 12.30am
Casa Mexicana 1771 5521 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6pm to 12am Margarita Mexicana 1774 6462 Gulf Hotel, Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 11pm Senor Paco’s 1772 5873 Adliya, 12pm to 3pm/6.30pm to 12am
Sea Food Asia Sea Food 1722 4466 Mashtan Hotel, 6am to 11pm Far East Sea Food Market 1772 7230 Ramez International Hotel, Juffair Daily, 12.30pm to 11.30pm Fish Market 1770 1201 Al Bander Hotel and Resort, 12.30pm to 11.30pm La Mer 1763 6411 Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa 7pm to 11pm La Perle 1729 8008 Novotel Al Dana Resort, 7pm to 12am Sea Chef 1729 2911 Hoora, 12pm to 1am
Mezzaluna 1774 2999 Adliya Sunday to Wednesday 7pm to 11pm/ Thursday to Saturday 7pm to 11.30pm Plums 1758 0000 Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa 7pm to 11.30pm Ponderosa Steakhouse 1758 0552 Seef, 11am to 1am Sizzlers Restaurant 1771 6999 Mansoori Mansions Hotel, Open 24 Hours The Meat Co 1774 2080 Block 338 Saturday to Wednesday 12.30pm to 3.30pm/ 7pm to 11.30pm and Thursday to Friday 12.30pm to 12am
Thai Banana Leaf 1774 4171 Adliya, 11am to 11pm Hash House 1771 5094 Adliya, 12pm to 4pm/6pm to 12am Muay Thai Quick Meal Restaurant 7704 0454 Juffair, 12pm to 12am Orchid Thai 1729 6660 Ramada Palace Hotel, 12pm to 3pm/7pm to 1am Royal Thai Sea Food Restaurant 1771 3000 Gulf Hotel Shada 1772 1155 Zinj, 11.30am to 3.30pm/6.30pm to 12am
Sheza Seafood Market 1753 3336 Sheza Tower Hotel, Diplomatic Area 12.30pm to 12am Waves 1753 1122 Crowne Plaza Hotel, 12pm to 4pm/7pm to 12am
To be included, email: info@ArabianMagazines.com or call +973 1782 2368.
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 125
Listings
Sports, Fitness and Kids Creative Kids
Fitness/Aerobics/Spinning
Meditation/Yoga
Al Safir Fitness First The Regency The Diplomat Radisson Blu Curves (Budaiya) Ez Fit Sports Complex Image Spa & Leisure (Sheraton Hotel) The Health Club (Gulf Hotel) Nautilus (Crown Plaza) Sports Club & Spa, Ritz-Carlton Al Gosaibi Gym Ghassan’s Gym (mat and private classes available) La Fontaine Centre World Beat Fitness Centre
Art of Living 3988 8760 Dessange 1771 3999 (Yoga classes offered several times a week) Bahrain Meditation Centre Bahrain 1779 5961 (Wellness Resort) Saturdays and Wednesdays. 7pm to 8.30pm, Mixed yoga classes. Sundays and Tuesdays (Ladies Only), 10am to12pm Bayoga Centre 1772 5027 Daily yoga classes, relaxing yoga and meditation for beginners and advanced students. 1749 1958 Herbal Massage Center, Riffa 3977 6882 World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 Reiki Master And Teacher Melanie 3933 0911 offers Reiki sessions and courses or www.reikibahrain.com Anubhaa Sharma anurays@yahoo.co.in
1781 3815 1332 2200 1722 7777 1753 1666 1769 1496 1769 2378 1752 4570 1771 3000 1753 0764 1758 9380 1729 3221 1769 5911 1723 0123 1761 2576
Badminton Bapco Club Telgu Kala Samithi The Indian Club
1775 3666 1727 6300 1725 3157
Basketball EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Basketball Association
1769 2378 1774 1010
1770 1201 1775 3666 1782 2077 1775 3666 1729 2313
Cricket EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Rugby Football Club SLC Grounds, Riffa Thursdays, Training 3pm to 5pm
1769 2378 1769 5809 1727 6134
1765 0079
Dance Bahrain Ballet Centre Indian Institute for Performing Arts Latin Dance Bahrain Sampaguita Club Sayaw Unlimited Dance Club Victoria Dance Centre World Beat Fitness Centre Profiles Fitness Centre Pineapple
1769 3232 1723 1717 3967 6349 3910 6589 3982 7096 3987 6215 1761 2576 1772 7766 1771 2000
Football Al Ahli Sports Club Al Hala Sports Club Bahrain Rugby Football Club British Club Dilmun Club EZ Fit Sports Complex Arsenal Soccer School
1727 7712 1734 2182 1769 5809 1772 8245 1769 2986 1769 2378 1756 1615
Golf Awali Club Royal Golf Club
Bahrain Snooker Association Jimmy’s Snooker and Billiards Club
Bahrain Badminton and Squash Federation The Country Club Al Bander Resort Nautilus (Crowne Plaza) The Diplomat Radisson Blu
1782 5301 1771 6147
Swimming Lessons British Club Dilmun Club Ritz Carlton Sports Club The Diplomat Radisson Blu
1753 1165 1745 0000 1778 0011 3944 4137
Martial Arts Japan Karate Association 3944 9628/3667 2204 Profiles Fitness Centre (Boxing for ladies) 1772 7766 Zen-Do 1761 1909 Bahrain Karate Centre 3947 7709 Goju Karate Club 3965 9510 World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 Bahrain Karate-do Academy 3665 7059
126 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
1759 3593 1770 1201 1753 0764 1753 1666
Awali Riding Club 1775 6525 Saturdays to Thursdays, 7am to 7pm. Fridays 7am to 6pm. Desert rides. Qualified instructors Bahrain Riding School 1769 0448 Daily rides 4pm to 6pm Dilmun Club 1769 2986 Sundays to Thursdays. 8am to 11am and 3pm to 7.30pm Shakhoora Riding School 1759 1103 Sundays to Thursdays, 8am to 12noon, 3.30pm to 7pm The Country Club 1759 3593 Fridays Horse riding in paddock, 1pm to 4pm Twin Palms Riding Centre 1759 1668
Bahrain Sailing School Coral Beach Club The Marina Club The Sailing Club The Yacht Club Aquatique - Organised pearl diving Al Bander Resort Bahrain Swimming Association Dilmun Club
1729 2313
1729 2662
Horse Riding
Watersports
Ice Skating Funland Centre
1769 5809
Snooker
1775 6770 1775 0777
Go Karting/Racing Rally Town BIC Silver go-Karts (Tubli) Gulf Speed One (Seef)
Bahrain Rugby Football Club
Squash
Cycling Bahrain Cycling Association
Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 (Thurs) 4.45pm for girls; (Sun) 7.30pm for women Riffa Views Netball League 3630 6946
Rugby
Bowling Al Bander Hotel & Resort Awali Bowling Centre Bahrain Bowling Association Bapco Club Funland Centre
Netball
1772 8245 1769 2986 1758 0001 1753 1666
1731 0252 1721 2700 1729 1527 1783 6078 1770 0677 1727 1780 1770 1201 1768 0867 1769 0926
Tennis Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561 The British Club 1722 8245 The Country Club 1759 3593 Dilmun Club 1769 2986 Gulf Hotel 1771 3000 Marina Club 1729 1527 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561/1772 9756 Filipino Club Tennis Group 3952 7587
Where To Go
Art Classes Paint In Space 1762 6232 Chaoss 1759 2096 Dar Albareh 1771 3535/3906 9016 Celebrations 1759 5791 Bahrain Art Society 1759 0551 Indian Institute for Performing Arts 1723 1717 The Studio 3975 4863 Studio Ceramics 1759 9026 Things to Do 1759 0409
Drama Film-making workshops
3600 1777
Kids Gyms/Gymnastics My Gym, www.my-gym.com EZ Fit World Beat Fitness Centre Chaoss
1756 6566 1769 2378 1761 2576 1759 2096
Libraries Awali Library (BAPCO, Awali) British Club (Times vary) Iqra’s Children’s Library Muharraq)
1775 3666 1772 8245 1732 0955
1783 6116
Adhari Park
1740 7300
North of the Shaikh Isa Bin Sulman Highway Fun for all ages, includes a sports camp, groovy town, discovery village and indoor entertainment Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports
Chaoss
1759 2096 Swimming, gymnastics, dance and Taekwon-Do for children and teenagers.
Dolphin Park Corniche next to Marina Club One hour marine mammal show.
1729 3109
Funland Corniche next to Marina Club Bowling and Ice Skating everyday.
1729 2313
Hawar Island
1731 1770 Day trips to Hawar Island, boats depart from Ad Dur Jetty at 10am daily
Kid’s Kingdom
Music Lessons Bahrain Music Institute Kindermusik Bahrain Room to Rock
Al Areen Wildlife Park
1772 1999 1761 3144/3925 6904 1761 1785
Corniche, next to the Hawar reservation office A small outdoor playground. Good fun for young children. Open until late.
Magic Island Seef Mall
Play Centres Chakazoolu Indoor Theme Park www.danamall.net Chaoss Funland Centre (bowling, ice skating, pool) www.funlandcentre.com Mad Science Magic Island, www.seefmall.net My Gym, Softplay at Dilmun Club Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark www.lpodwaterpark.com
1755 8500 1759 2096 1729 2313
1759 1136 1758 2898 1756 6566 1769 0926 1784 5100
Play Groups Chaoss, Off Budaiya Highway 1759 2096 Kindermusik 3925 6904/1761 3144 Ajyaal Montessori Pre-School 3912 9585 Mini Storytellers, British School (4 to 7 year olds) Musical Babies, Nadeen School 1772 8886 My Gym, Seef District 1756 6566 Rhymes & Chimes, Dilmun Club 3929 6848 Soft Play, Off Budaiya Highway 3965 3678 Sticky Fingers 3961 8340 Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (7 to 11 year olds) Tots & Toddlers Group, 1772 8245 The British Club Wriggly Readers, British School 3912 9585 (for pre-schoolers) www.mumsinbahrain.net
Over 120 different games and attractions and Bahrain’s only indoor Roller Blade Arena.
Playland 1774 2266/1762 0999 Above Fuddruckers in Adliya An indoor centre full of games. Each ride costs 100 fils. Tokens available. Soft Play 3965 3678 Future Shape Dance Studio, Garden City Every Monday and Wednesday from 9.30am to 11.30am Children under the age of six months attend for free. www.softplaybahrain.com Studio Ceramics
1759 9026 Budaiya Highway Pottery painting and more. Open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday, or by appointment. Birthday parties and private group bookings possible.
Water Garden Salmaniya 1726 2034 Near Dairy Queen roundabout A semi-filled lake with paddleboats and birds. School & Nurseries Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain 1717 3000 Bahrain City Centre Opening Hours: Saturday to Tuesday: 11am to 8pm Wednesday: 11am to 10pm (Ladies Night 5pm to 10pm) Thursday and Friday: 11am to 9 PM
Things to know The Tourist Department (Tel. 1721 1717) is located in the gate to Manama’s souq, Bab al-Bahrain, on the ground floor next to the tourist shop, Times: 8am to 12 and 4.30pm to 6pm, closed on Friday.
Currency The Bahrain Dinar (BD) is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of USD1=BD0.377 - in other words a dinar is worth about USD2.65. It is a convertible currency with no restrictions on its import or export. Tip: the Saudi Riyal (SR) is also accepted
in shops for purchases at an exchange rate of BD1=SR10 (less in hotels) and you may be given Saudi money as change.
Business Hours Friday is the Islamic equivalent of the Christian Sunday. The weekend falls on a Friday and a Saturday. Most shopping malls and commercial centres are generally open seven days a week.
Listings Schools American Curriculum
Clubs & Associations
Other Private Schools
Al Hekma International Tel. 1762 0820/1762 3999 Modern Knowledge Schools Tel. 1772 7712 Riffa Views International School Tel. 1656 5000 The Bahrain School Tel. 1762 0820
Al Noor International School Tel. 1773 6773 Ecole Francaise de Bahrain Tel. 1732 3770 Ibn Khuldoon National School Tel. 1778 0661 Shaikha Hessa Girls’ School Tel. 1775 6111
British Curriculum
Al Mahd Day Boarding Tel. 1779 2422 British School Tel. 1761 0920 Budaiya Preschool Tel. 1779 1491 Dilmun School (elementary) Tel. 1771 3483 KG Kids Tel. 1766 3556 St Christopher’s School Tel. 1778 8108 Sacred Heart School Tel. 1768 4367 Talent International and The Infant School Tel. 1725 2346/1777 0078
Nurseries and Creches
Al Dana Nursery Tel. 1725 3541 Dana Pre-school, Riffa Tel. 1777 0180 Lilliput, Budaiya Tel. 1769 4947
Special Needs
Disabled Sports Federation Tel. 1778 9191 Hope Institute Tel. 1768 0815/1768 0500 R.I.A. Institute Tel. 1771 6871 The Children’s Academy Tel. 1761 3234 UCO Parents Care Centre Tel. 1767 7717
Things to know Taxis
Taxis are easily available in the capital, Manama, and have meters but be sure to make the driver use the meter. 99% of drivers won’t switch on the meter and will try to charge you double the legal fare. Beware! Confidential Tip: BD1 per five minutes in the cab is the most you should pay for an un-metered journey. If traveling from the airport or busy taxi rank, add BD2/after midnight add BD1 to the total e.g. a 10 minute drive from the airport after midnight should cost you no more than BD5 (BD2 + BD2 + BD1= BD5). Taxis do use meters and companies may use similar rates.
Avoiding Offence
Generally speaking, very short skirts and tight midriff tops are frowned upon in public, although acceptable by hotel pools, in private clubs and on the beach. If visiting a mosque, cover the body well (women should ensure that arms and legs and hair are fully covered). Shoes should always be left outside the entrance.
Essential Info 24-Hour Pharmacies Jaffer Pharmacy Tel. 1729 1039 18, Tarfah bin Al Abid Avenue, Manama 319 Nasser Pharmacy Tel. 1774 0900 63-B, Qadisiya Avenue, Manama 332 Awal Pharmacy Tel. 1777 2023 30 Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Avenue, East Riffa 901 Muwasaa Pharmacy Tel. 1733 5666 Shaikh Mohd bin Salman Avenue, Road 205, Muharraq.
Courier & Express Delivery
Tel. 1733 0434
DHL
Tel. 1736 4100
TNT
Tel. 1734 9199
Car Hire An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive in Bahrain except for visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council states, U.S.A., Canada, countries in the European Union, Australia and New Zealand. The offices of car-hire companies are easily encountered at the airport. Recommended principal rental firms include: Budget Rent A Car National Car Rental Avenue Car Rental and Leasing
Tel. 1753 4100 Tel. 1723 1156 Tel. 1771 3181
Embassies & Consulates Embassies generally open from 8am to 1pm from Saturday to Wednesday and some Arab embassies also open on Thursday. Many embassies have a number of staff on call outside these hours for emergencies. Algeria 1771 3669 Bangladesh 1771 4717 China 1772 3800 Denmark 1772 5119 Egypt 1772 0005 France 1729 8660 Germany 1753 0210 India 1771 2785 Iran 1772 2400 Iraq 1774 1472 Italy 1725 2424 Japan 1771 6565 Jordan 1729 1109 Kuwait 1753 4040 Lebanon 1778 6994
Malaysia Morocco Netherlands Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Portugal Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Switzerland Syria Trade Mission of Taiwan Thailand Tunisia Turkey UAE UK UN Info Centre USA
1756 4551 1774 0566 1759 1568 1729 3663 1724 4113 1727 6099 1725 0990 1753 6709 1772 2922 1772 5222 1753 7722 1753 1166 1772 2484 1729 2578 1727 4142 1771 4149 1753 3448 1771 0333 1757 4100 1731 1676 1724 2700
Flight Information Airline offices are normally open from 8am to 12.30pm and from 3pm to around 5pm, Saturday till Wednesday. 1733 9339 Flight Info 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
Scrabble Bahrain Scrabble League Bahrain Kannada Sangha Saturdays. 6.30pm.
Art Societies Elham 1771 7441 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art 1723 0123 The Bahrain Contemporary Art Society 1772 8046
Charitable Organisations Alia for Early Intervention 1773 0960 Bahrain Cancer Society 3960 3489/1723 3080 Bahrain Charity Society 1729 3363 Bahrain Disabled Sports Committee 1778 9191 Bahrain Human Rights Society 1753 1822 Bahrain Red Crescent Society 1729 3171 Friendship Society for the Blind 1762 4496 Hope Institute for the Handicapped 1768 0815 1772 0053 Islamic Enlightenment Society Lions Club of Bahrain 3908 0097 Manama Rotary Club 3939 4522 Migrant Workers Protection Society 3946 5378 1721 3825 Overseas Workers Welfare Admin. Palm Association 1779 0826/3964 3211 Riffa Cultural and Charity Society 1777 5444 Think Pink 3907 6717 BSPCA 1759 1231/1759 3479
Gallery/Crafts Al Riwaq Art Space 1771 7441 Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre 1761 1900 Art Lounge 1758 0522 Traditional crafts including palm weaving, pottery and woodwork. 1759 0551 Bahrain Arts Society Thursdays drawing and painting for Children, 18 hours @ BD25, 10am to 12pm Saturdays and Mondays drawing and Painting for adults, 18 hours @ BD30, 3pm to 7pm. 1778 6898 Bahrain Pottery Society Clay pottery, ceramic and painting lessons - Saturdays and Mondays, 5pm. Crafts Centre Gallery and Workshop 1756 8032 Arabic calligraphy Caravan Galleries 3996 5853 Kerala Arts and Cultural Association 3963 9319 The Studio 3975 4863 Pottery painting and more for adults and children, open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday or by appointment. Birthday parties and private group bookings possible. 3940 2302/1732 2549 Shaikh Ibrahim Cultural and Research Centre Studio Ceramics 1759 9026
“Help” 24-Hour Helpline for Distressed Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous
3987 3357 1753 0020 1753 3558
151 181 191 100 140
Bahrain Bridge Club Bahrain Bridge Committee
3960 7219 3968 7190
Darts Balouch Club Sri Lanka Club
1724 2641 1727 1157
Speech & Drama Bahrain Cinema Club Dilmun Amateur Dramatics Society Folk Poetry Society Manama Theatre Club Manama Toastmasters Club
1772 5959 1769 0926 1776 1000 1777 6489 3965 5676
Ladies Clubs American Association of Bahrain 1756 4170 American Women’s Association 1775 6075 Australian Association of Bahrain 3910 1348 Awali Ladies Association 1767 8947 Bahrain Business Women’s Society 1772 1188 Bahrain Garden Club 1772 7625 Bahrain Women Society 1782 6777 Bahrain Young Ladies Society 1727 3508 BYLS-Toastmasters Club 1762 6237 Get together for Ladies 3917 4247/3902 7892 Indian Ladies Association 3980 5372 International Ladies Group 1772 9128 Madinat Hamad Women Society 3964 3396 Contact person Amal 3987 8758 1771 0944 Pakistani Women’s Association Second Sunday Newcomers 3927 0413/3641 1368
Language Schools Al Quran Translation 1764 5156 Bait Al Taleem 1764 3199 1782 7847 Berlitz British Council 1726 1555 Carousel 3967 3635 Lingua English Saturdays. Mondays and Wednesdays. English Language Classes, 4.30pm to 6pm, 4pm to 5.30pm. 1770 0040 English Language Centre Lingo - Ease Language Centre Budaiya Highway 1759 0895
Social Clubs Alliance Française 1768 3295 Assamese Community 3909 1959 Awali Caledonian Society 3636 6458 Bahrain Caledonian Society 3944 0658 1786 2620 Bahrain Hash House Harriers Bahrain Irish Society info@bahrainirishsociety.com Bahrain Kannada Sangha 1727 1257 Bahrain Round Table 3960 8568 Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 1772 7127 Bahrain Welsh Society Balouch Club 1729 2231 British Club 1772 8245 ext. 32 Bhatia Mitra Mandal 3960 1789 Country Club 1759 3593 1769 0926 Dilmun Club Filipino Club 1726 2143 Indian Club 1725 3157 Karnataka Social Club 1725 4257 Pakistan Club 1725 8520 Pakistan Association 3941 5200 Royal Society of St. George 3972 6329 Saar Cultural & Sports Club 1779 0335 Shree Nayrana Cultural Society 1725 5517 Shri Gujarati Samaj 3962 4285 Sri Lanka Club 1727 6134 1772 7575 Wisdom Home Society
Wellbeing
Bridge
Hospitals & Clinics Emergency American Mission Hospital (AMH) Saar Medical & Dental Clinic (AMH) Bahrain Specialist Hospital Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital Salmaniya Hospital
Animal Welfare Al Ahli Animal Centre 1762 2102/3965 4343 BSPCA 1759 1231 Delmon Kennels & Training 3971 7609 Jassim Veterinary Centre (Sugaya) 1723 1242 Modern Animal Health Centre (Budaiya) 1759 0908 Nonie Coutts Surgery, (Manama and Saar) 1724 5515 Pet Arabia 1759 2288 Saar Kennels 1779 2064
1729 2231 1729 7878
Kelly Armatage Inc. Offering counselling, life coaching and cognitive behavioural therapy sessions Mob: 3993 1399 Email: info@kellyarmatage.com www.kellyarmatage.com
Chess Bahrain Chess Federation
1725 2133
Photography Awali Photo Society Bahrain Arts Society
1776 4468 3966 7751
November 2013 | Bahrain Confidential | 127
Lifestyle
Horoscopes “If you always put limit on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them.” – Bruce Lee
Aquarius 20 January-
18 February You may have landed a good job or project that will take your career to the next level. A relaxing and fun holiday is on the cards; enjoy every minute of it as it may be the last one you have for a very long time. Try and be more understanding with loved ones.
Pisces 19 February-
20 March You may be missing someone very badly but don’t let that bring you down. Focus on your work and that something which has been on your priority list for a while now. Health needs to be focused on. Love life looks a little low.
Aries 21 March-19 April
Bruce Lee, the famous Hong Kong American martial artist celebrates his birthday this month!
Sagittarius 23 November-
21 December You’re still emotionally hung up on something; let it go. Spend your time constructively; try and get better at your work; sign up for a new course perhaps. Be around true friends who make you feel positive. Love life depends on your willingness to let go.
Capricorn 22 December-
19 January You’re doing extremely well at your work even though it is challenging; keep up that spirit. Try to be more patient with the people you love and don’t let negative situations bring you down. This month may bring a change that you’ve longed for.
128 | Bahrain Confidential | November 2013
Learn to relax. You may have purchased a new asset or property which may be taking its toll on you; don’t let that bother you. Spend more time with family and try not to dwell too much on the past. Focus on your health.
Taurus 20 April-20 May
This is a busy time for you; may be your job or some kind of passion may be keeping you on your toes; embrace it. There may be some emotional confusions but don’t let them affect your work. Identify those who really care for you and get back to them.
Gemini 21 May-21 June
Get ready for a new journey which will not only be exciting but also keep you on your toes. Try and stay healthy so you are ready for everything. Spend time with loved ones especially that special someone.
Cancer 22 June-22 July
Enjoy what you’re currently working on and give it your best shot. Depend on your inner self or that something from which/whom you derive your strength. Your professional life looks bright and so do relationships.
Leo 23 July-21 August
It can be an emotionally (and may be physically too) trying time for you but you will have to take one day at a time; this is a phase and will pass. Don’t neglect your priorities and don’t delay. Spend more time with loved ones. Health is important.
Virgo 22August-
21 September Oh you epitome of melancholy, get smiling already! Just give your emotions a break; if things are meant to fall in place then they surely will. In the interim, just focus on things that make you strong. Maintain your health and spend time with people who are positive.
Libra 22September-
22 October Your organised nature may make your stressful life even more difficult. Just hang in there and take help from friends and family. Job scene looks fantastic and you could even expect some kind of a promotion or appreciation this month.
Scorpio 23 October-22
November You may have just gotten out of some healthy issues. Try and stay healthy; make exercise and a good diet part of your daily life. Someone you love may go away from you but it will be only for a while and for a good reason so accept it positively.