Bahrain Confidential

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

115

Special: Summer Splash For Kids!

Jam-Packed with Activities and Camps including Summer Fun at Wahooo! Waterpark, Bahrain!

Beauty

Art Space

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Interviews

Out and About

Issue

Contents

38

July 2012 • Issue 115

People 32 24

David Hollywood - Poetry Page Mohammad Al Shaikh - Between Emotions and Meditation

Opinion

76 Promoting Green Construction

- Eng. Rehan Ahmed 128 Summer Heat - Moh’d Al Rasheed

Feature 34

The Last Ship Builders of Muharraq - John R Ridley

Fashion and Shopping 48 54 56 57 60

Seriously Cool Summer at H&M Accessorise with Nine West Fun for Tiny Toes with Shoe Mart Travel in Style with Victoria’s Secret Beauty Buzz

Beauty, Health & Well Being 64 65 68 70

Ask the Doctor with Dr Dean Cunha Gomes Teeth Whitening with Dr Ali Juffairy 13 Ways to Fast the Healthy Way Removing Resentment - Kelly Armatage

Juicy Pickings 4 10 22 77 108 126

Los Vivancos - Interview

Editor’s Letter Not to Be Missed!

New in Town Society Looking for a Home!

Bizarre News

Cars

102 Porsche Boxster 105 Range Rover Sport

Staying In and Going Out 117 The Right Cut at Butcher’s Shop & Grill

Essential Listings

120 Recommended Restaurants, Nightspots,

Essential Info, Beauty Spots,

Sports and Fitness, Clubs and Associations

112

68

Ramadan The Great Offers!

Eid Escape

EditL Online edition

rabia.net

at www.FashionA

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

115 Issue

Dear Readers, Cover Credits: ‘Summer Fun at Wahooo!

Waterpark, Bahrain’

er Special: Summ s! id K or F Splash

including and Camps rain! , Bah with Activities Jam-Packed at Wahooo! Waterpark Summer Fun

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BAHRAIN BD2

T KD2 OMAN

KSA SR20 KUWAI

RO2 QATAR

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

Interviews

Art Space

Beauty

Dr Mohd. Al Rasheed Eng. Rehan Ahmed Dr Dean Cunha Gomes Faisal Ebrahim Kelly Armatage David Hollywood John Ridley Susan Cook

Out and Abou

QR20 UAE DHS20

Nicholas & Rebecca Cooksey Rebecca Cooksey Maliha Aqueel Arlene O’Neill Noel De Juan, Dhanraj S. Administration

Redia Castillo Nikesh Pola

Photographer Shareef Panhatt Sales Account Manager Basel Qabouq Jehan Mohamed

C ’est

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

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

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

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

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

Printed at Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej, Bahrain.

It might seem a little quiet on our lovely island during summer, but there’s loads going on. The Bahrain Summer Festival is drawing crowds, with special activities for the children. Flip through to see the schedule for July’s events - and a special interview with the sensational Flamenco dancers!

This is also the time of year when everyone is thinking how to get their kids busy! We have you covered with an extensive list of summer camps and activities, including contact details.

The Holy month of Ramadan is just around the corner, read through to find our picks of Ramadan specials - including the best places for lavish Iftars and Ghabgas. In addition to that, find our selection of Ramadan retreats and Eid escapes to beautiful, tranquil and calming places around the world for when you just need that little bit of pampering.

And, much as we’ve come to expect, Dr Dean answers all your questions and shares some solid advice on skin problems.

Our resident life coach, Kelly Armatage, guides readers on the importance of eradicating all kinds of resentment from life to find satisfaction and happiness. It’s a must read!

We also have a special feature on the ship builders of Muharraq, where you’ll find fascinating details about the men who build Bahrain’s ‘Dhows’.

And, of course, don’t forget to browse our Fashion section where you’ll find loads of summer options to fit your style, budget and wardrobe. For women, we have featured a selection of pale pastels and zesty colourful clothes. For men, it’s a mixture of just the right fits for summer - with some seriously cool accessories thrown in for the finishing touches.

Have a great summer and a blessed Ramadan!

The Confidential Team Would you like to be a PUBLISHED photographer?

If your photos of Bahrain and the region are good enough, they could be published in Gulf Insider/Areej/Bahrain Confidential magazines. Each month we publish the most impressive images we receive and give full credit to the photographer.

Images must be at least 1mb and can be e-mailed to gulfinsider@ArabianMagazines.com with the subject ‘PHOTO’.

BB PIN: 276045D7

Readers’ Letters

Dear Editor ...

Many thanks to all of you who wrote in last month and apologies if your letter isn’t printed but we get so many. Keep us informed and keep us in check by sending comments to info@ArabianMagazines.com

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

115 Issue

Mmmeaty!

When I get to the poetry section in Bahrain Confidential, I’m not expecting appetizing - or should I say, rather unappetizing thoughts about food. But this month’s poetry from David Hollywood was quite unusual.

Usually evoking pleasant feelings about our surroundings, David’s poetry actually did the opposite for me this month.

Poetry Lover

Special: Summer Splash For Kids!

Jam-Packed with Activities and Camps including Summer Fun at Wahooo! Waterpark, Bahrain!

Beauty

Art Space

Interviews

114

Complimentary Copy

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Gearing Up For F1

Alone

Environment Day!?

Rehan Ahmed’s article made much of celebrating World Environment Day, but it came and went unnoticed in Bahrain! I have been in Bahrain for nearly five years now and every year, the same happens. I wish there were more opportunities to be a part of spreading awareness in the Kingdom!

Environmentally Conscious Well, well now for someone who claims to be “Environmentally Conscious� you can be pretty lazy huh? Five years and you haven’t done a thing to protect the environment of our beautiful island?

We suggest if you can’t find a way to contribute, create one and let us know too!

BS2012 Bah. Confidential cover.indd 1

24/05/2012 12:05

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

C’est

Have some heart daaahling, for David has all the poetic license in the world. But not for the faint of heart, we say!

Out and About

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113 Issue

C’eAlone st

Gearing Up For F1 For Fashion’s

Interviews

Fashion

Get Connected The Latest Internet Packages

Luxury Cars

Amwaj Islands Updates

Dining, Deals and Developments

Out and About

Hala Ramzy Fayez The Truth Behind the Veil

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6 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

C’est

Sake!

For heavens’ sake can you please also pick out some fashion for those of us who don’t make big bucks? I really loved your picks from Juicy Couture to wear around the pool for summer but they were a wee bit too heavy on my wallet. So unless you want me to empty out my wallet every month, please have some fashionable suggestions that are easier on the pocket!

Look close my dear, there were some pretty inexpensive choices in there too. Seems like you have a tendency to gravitate towards the more expensive choices (we know all about that!).

What a Shame!

I adopted a cat after seeing him up for adoption in Bahrain Confidential.

Since then, I look at the pet section every month and it’s very very sad to see that the same animals sometimes come up for adoption each month. It’s a shame that so many people would choose to dump their pet rather than spend the money and take them when they leave. A pet is for life not just the duration of their time spent in Bahrain.

It must be very traumatic for the animal?

Judgemental Joe It breaks our hearts to see all those animals waiting to be adopted each month. We agree that more people could choose to make them a more permanent part of their lives, but then again we can’t really know what anyone’s situation is either.

Rather Splendid!

Loved reading the interview with the Indian Ambassador Mohan Kumar and his wife Mala Kumar. It’s rare that we get to hear about their likes, dislikes and passions in life - especially, embarrassing moments! And the pictures just seemed very regal to me with Mala Kumar’s traditional dress and jewellery.

Interested Reader We are delighted that you liked it! After all, we’re here for your reading pleasure.

Celebrating Dad

Thank you Confidential for helping me pick out the perfect gift for my dad this father’s day. It’s quite a pickle each year to find something he doesn’t already have. I got him the USB and Cigar Holder from your picks this month and he just loved it!

Seriously Grateful Glad to be of help sire!

T H E

W I T H

S P I R I T

Y O U

O F

At the onset of the holy month of Ramadan and in the spirit of giving, we at Ahmed Zayani have a lot to offer.

Visit our showroom, and check out our offers on a wide range of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and RAM models.

Take advantage of our excellent Ramadan offers with a lot of options to select from and drive away contented.

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S H A R E S

Gossip

News

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

Inflated Ego

Cheryl Cole angered fans last month, when after her first ever solo tour in the UK she tried to charge £350 for a back stage meet and greet. The advertised Platinum package which includes a ticket to the show and a photo with and an autograph from the star backstage has now been removed from the internet. But the whole scenario has left the public wondering why she has such an inflated opinion of herself!

Cameron Diaz

Cheryl Cole

Sam Branson and Isabella AnstrutherGough-Calthorpe

Another Branson to Wed

Lady Gaga

Just six months after giving away his daughter in a lavish ceremony on his private Caribbean island, Sir Richard Branson is preparing for another family wedding. His son Sam is to marry stunning actress Isabella AnstrutherGough-Calthorpe after the Virgin heir proposed to his on-off girlfriend of seven years. Sam, 26, popped the question to Isabella, 32, on a two-week trip to visit lemur colonies on the Berenty private reserve in Madagascar.

Diaz Diet

Cameron Diaz is the latest celebrity who wants to use her power for good. The 39-year-old actress is planning to write a book to help teenage girls realise the importance of proper nutrition. Cameron wants to pass on everything she’s learned about healthy eating and share with teenage girls, in the hopes that she’ll ease the pressure girls feel to be skinny. She wants to stop their fixation on being thin, and for teenage girls to understand that being healthy is more important. Cam knows she is a role model to girls and she really wants to use that position to do good. This book is not about weight, it’s about making the right choices.

Celebrity Tweets P Diddy

Everybody is a genius. But if u judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree – it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid – Einstein

Joan Rivers

Madonna launched her world tour in Tel Aviv and she looks great … for a woman only 10 years younger than the State of Israel.

Cox-Arquette Divorce

Heidi Montag

Life has officially changed when 8am is sleeping in.

8 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

David Arquette has filed for divorce from Courteney Cox citing irreconcilable differences last month. This was just days before their 13th wedding anniversary and almost two years after they separated.

He has asked for joint legal and physical custody of their daughter, Coco, who has just turned eight. The former couple were interviewed together by radio DJ Howard Stern last year after their separation, and while David hinted he would like for them to get back together, Courtney was not so sure. However, she did say during the interview: “We are always going to be a family - whether we’re together or not.”

Courteney Cox and David Arquette

What’s On

Missed Not To Be

stro,nparties & For more events, gage 9 nightlife turn to pa s 110 - 11

8th July Onwards

Studio Ceramics Summer Camp

Summer Camp includes lots of art and crafts, fun with clay, faux mosaics and one hour of Mad Science! Starts Sunday 8th July, from 9am to 1pm. Early drop-off option available for busy moms!

BD15 per day and BD60 per week.

Tel. +973 1759 9026 or email: studioceramics@batelco.com.bh

3rd-15th

Pananghaliansabukid by M Evangelista

Bahrain Summer Festival

3rd July Qusai AKA Don Legend the

Kamelion Featuring DJ OUTLAW and Flipperachi The Hip Hop and R&B artists will rock your evening! Starts at 8.30pm in Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre (BIECC), Hall 1B. Minimum age for attendance is eight years.

“Sino si Juan?”

(Who is Juan?): Re-discovering the Modern Filipino

6th July

Campus Dance Showdown

This spectacular competition at Lost Paradise of Dilmun will see tremendous talents from students across the country showcasing their different skills in dancing and movements. From jazz, hip-hop, ballroom or whatever genres, this dance competition is sure to make waves amongst the youth.

For more informaton visit www.Ipodwaterpark.com or Tel. +973 1784 5100.

The Lost Paradise of Dilmun

Photography by Ahmed Zayer

10 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

6th July

13th-23rd

Filipino Cultural Extravaganza

Over 100 Filipino artists unite to bring “Sino si Juan?” (Who is Juan?): Re-discovering the Modern Filipino. See works of Filipino artists in Bahrain, from painting and photography, to performances involving dance, theatre, music, martial arts and poetry. Workshops on photography, kids’ arts and crafts and Filipino Martial Arts are also part of the event.

From 13th to 23rd July at Al Taj Ballroom, The Sheraton Bahrain Hotel.

Tel. +973 3610 2960 or +973 3631 1563.

13th July Kid’s got Talent too!

The little ones can delight the crowd as Lost Paradise of Dilmun hosts “Kid’s got Talent too!” The inhouse talent event will provide a spotlight for all the kids in the water park. All you need is a talent – so get practicing. For more informaton visit www.Ipodwaterpark.com or Tel. +973 1784 5100.

Hala Alturk The Bahraini child star will be performing popular songs including “My Lovely Daughter” and “Sleep”.

At 7pm in BIECC, Hall 1B. Minimum age for attendance is three years.

10th-15th July The Sound of Music

Considered by many to be the best-loved and most successful movie musical in history, The Sound of Music is coming to Bahrain this month.

At 7pm in BIECC, Hall 1B. Minimum age for attendance is three years.

For more information, visit www.bahrainsummer.bh, Twitter: @BahrainSummer12, Facebook.com/ BahrainSummer Tickets can be purchased at Virgin Megastore, Bahrain City Centre or at www.virginmegastore.me

Events

Bahrain Summer Festival 2012 Ministry of Culture

Bahrain Summer Festival is an annual event organized by the Ministry of Culture in Bahrain International Exhibition and Conference Centre. Starting last month it runs until the 15th of July and this year it falls in line with the diverse and innovative year-long programme of Manama, the Capital of Arab Culture 2012.

Programme of Events Qusai AKA Don Legend the

Kamelion Featuring DJ OUTLAW and Flipperachi

B

ahrain Summer Festival is lively, interactive and dedicated to the future of children, families and guests. The varied programme of events ensures that all tastes are catered for including musical events, cultural and educational events and activities from the region and beyond.

In addition to the range of scheduled events, Nakhool, returns in full force in Nakhool City with a range of activities and workshops designed for children above the age of three from 2pm until 7pm every day of the festival. Nakhool City is growing little by little within the lively and joyous city of Manama and is located in BIECC, Hall 1A.

Time: 8.30pm Genre: Hip Hop/R&B Country: KSA/Bahrain Minimum Age: 6 years Venue: BIECC, Hall 1B Twitter: @qusaidonlegend

The Middle East Hip Hop Ambassador was one of the first Arabic Hip Hop Artists, and the first Saudi Arabian Rapper. He has established himself as an important part in the city’s musical culture. Under his

Eyesomnia label, Legend has been both prolific and successful, pioneering the perfect blend of Arabic music and Hip-Hop. Don Legend’s alias “Kamelion” accurately describes his ability to adapt to any situation in his path, and has demonstrated an unsurpassed passion and focus towards this amazing genre of music.

The Ambassador features two young Bahraini talents, “DJ Outlaw” who started off his music career as an independent DJ with his own production studio at home (Outlaw Productions), and the rising young Bahraini star Hussam Aseem (aka “Flipp” or “Flipperachi”) who has gained quite a fan following and a reputation as an Arab rapper to watch for. A traditional Bahraini Laiwa band will join Qusai on stage as well to create an authentically diverse musical performance.

6th July Hala Alturk

Time: 7pm Genre: Song Country: Bahrain Minimum Age: 3 years Venue: BIECC, Hall 1B The child star will be performing popular favorites including “My Lovely Daughter” and “Sleep”.

Hala Alturk

3rd July

Qusai

DJ OUTLAW

10th to 15th July The Sound of Music

Directed by John Payton Music by Richard Rodgers Flipperachi

Time: 7pm Genre: Musical Theatre Country: United Kingdom Minimum Age: 3 Years Venue: BIECC, Hall 1B www.soundofmusicbahrain.com

Audiences will be entertained by the lavish West End musical, The Sound of Music. The perfect family entertainment, The Sound of Music can add to its long accolade its success in the UAE, breaking box office records last year and winning the Timeout Nightlife Award for the Best Theatrical Production. A wonderful show, this musical will bring the Bahrain Summer Festival to a memorable end for all participants.

For more information, visit www.bahrainsummer.bh, Twitter: @BahrainSummer12, Facebook.com/BahrainSummer Tickets can be purchased at Virgin Megastore, Bahrain City Centre or at www.virginmegastore.me

12 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

E N U J 14 2 201

SPONSORS Media Sponsors

LY U J 15

Tickets are sold at Virgin Megastore and online at: Follow us on Twitter @BahrainSummer12 and Facebook.com/BahrainSummer.

Events

Sumptuous Summer At The Royal Golf Club

Looking for things to do this

summer?

Check out these incredible dining and sporting options at the Royal Golf Club ...

July Dining

At Links Lounge And Restaurant Every Monday

Order one main course and receive a second main course (of equal or lesser value) free. From 6pm to 8pm.

Every Tuesday

Order one main course per person and receive a 50 per cent discount off your beverage bill. From 6pm to 8pm.

Every Friday Enjoy the Carvery Feast! Classic roast carvery buffet with all the trimmings plus live cooking stations. Special buffet table for the kids. Crèche available for younger children at BD3 per child per hour. Midday to 4pm. Visitors BD16 and Club Members BD14. Kids under twelve, BD8.5 inclusive of selected soft drinks.

Daily Happy Hour from 5pm to 7pm. Enjoy discounts every day on selected beverages.

Sunday to Thursday

Enjoy the 2-course Business Lunch and selected soft drink for BD8 per person.

11.30am to 3pm.

All of the above dining offers are valid until the start of Ramadan only. Links will be open evenings only during Ramadan.

14 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Links Lounge And Restaurant

July Sporting Events 17, 24 and 31 July

Ramadan PowerPlay Night Golf Series on the Wee Monty Course. 7pm shotgun start. Open to all.

20 July

Open Championship Event. Two tee start from 7.30am. Open to all.

Every Saturday

Wee Monty Family Day at BD15 per adult, kids play free! Inclusive of green fee and hire clubs. Tee times from 10am to 2pm. Open to all.

Every Monday

Ecco Monday Stableford. 1pm shotgun start.

Open to all.

A&E Monday Madness Night Golf Series at BD20 for nine holes. 6.30pm shotgun start.

Open to all.

Every Tuesday

Bachelor(ette) Golf Clinic & Social Evening at BD15 per person inclusive of group golf clinic and snacks and cold drink afterwards. From 6pm onwards. Open to all.

Every Wednesday

Ladies golf competition in different formats. 8am shotgun start. Open to all ladies!

Golf Tuition

Summer Mates Rates

If you’re hanging around in Bahrain this summer, the Royal Golf Club has some fantastic offers for you and your mates to enjoy!

Golf With Friends: Save nearly 60 percent off the normal rack rates. If you and three friends book a tee time between 1pm and 4pm on a Saturday afternoon or any time from Sunday to Wednesday, you’ll pay just BD100 in total for 18 holes on the Montgomerie championship course, inclusive of golf carts and access to the driving range.

Fit For Two! Purchase a single person’s personal training session with one of the Royal Country Club’s fitness trainers and a friend can accompany you for free. A one-hour personal training session costs BD15 for members and Riffa Views residents and BD20 for the general public.

Invest in a package of five, ten or 25 sessions and get extra sessions for free.

Home Alone Summer Specials Home alone this summer? At the Royal Golf Club, meet new friends and keep entertained in your leisure time.

Golf: Take advantage of the cooler evening

temperatures in June, July and August by booking a nine hole round of Night Golf on the Montgomerie championship course and pay BD20 per person.

Option to pair up with other golfers available. This offer is valid any day of the week after 7pm.

Golf Tuition: Join the Royal Golf Academy’s PGA Professionals for a special one-hour Golf Clinic every Tuesday evening in July and August starting at 6pm.

The group coaching session will be rounded off with a cold drink and snacks in the Members’ Lounge and costs BD15 per person, a great way to improve your golf and meet new people.

Full details and terms and conditions of the Royal Golf Club’s summer offers can be found on www.theroyalgolfclub.com

Find us on

Ramadan at Bahrain’s Most Unique Venue Create unrivalled memories with your family, friends and guests by booking a private Iftar or Ghabga function DW WKH 5R\DO *ROI &OXE WKLV 5DPDGDQ (QMR\ VSHFWDFXODU QLJKW WLPH YLHZV DFURVV WKH ÀRRGOLW JROI FRXUVHV WKHQ settle down in luxurious surroundings for your delicious meal.

Our special Iftar and Ghabga buffet menus have been carefully created to provide traditional fresh snacks with which to break your fast followed by a mouth-watering selection of mezze, main courses and desserts to enjoy with your guests.

All Royal Golf Club room hire charges are suspended throughout July and August and a number of venues are available for parties of varying sizes.

Ramadan buffet menus start from as little as BD 11 net per person.

Call +973 17 750777 today to reserve your preferred date and venue.

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

Advertorial

Lost Paradise of Dilmun

2 1 0 2 l a iv t s e F r e m Sum The heat is on! As LPOD’s Summer Festival continues until the 18th July 2012.

T

his year’s foremost attraction, LPOD proudly brings to Bahrain an all original Dragon and Lion dance troupe straight from China. Legend has it that the Dragon and Lion dance is the symbol of power, strength and good luck, driving away evil spirits and bringing fortune to the people. Guests are all invited to get the chance to witness this great spectacle of dance and colours for free with entrance tickets, as it will run four shows per day from 6th to 19th July.

The summer fest will also emphasize not only the waterpark’s many attractions but will showcase an array of the brightest talents in the Kingdom. Celebration begins with the first LPOD Music Festival, Campus Dance Showdown and Kid’s Got Talent Too! - gathering different

artists showcasing music skills, dance prowess and entertaining acts. The three week festival will also host a dedicated kids’ activity area with lots of fun games, arts and crafts, mascots and magic shows that is sure to keep the little ones busy for summer.

In addition, new extended hours can now be enjoyed from 10am to 8pm every day except on Tuesdays, when it’s closed.

Thursdays are from 10am to 5pm to give way for ladies night from 6pm to 12am.

LPOD brings more of great DJ music, Zumba sessions, fashion shows and special competitions with airline tickets to be given away.

As the summer heat starts to sizzle, LPOD is sure to be this summer’s best destination for all ages to enjoy!

For latest news and updates, check them out on Facebook: Lost Paradise of Dilmun or on Twitter: @Lpodtweet

For more informaton visit www.Ipodwaterpark.com or Tel. +973 1784 5100.

16 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Kids’ Summer Specials

a n n a W t s u J s d i K ! n u F e Hav this summer If you’re not going away ! The kids are off ge pa ht rig e th to e m co - you’ve d a summer school now and if you haven’t organise ok through our activity for them, it’s not too late. Lo selection of summer activities for kids with details like dates, ages, activities and location - we’ve got it all sorted out for you!

18 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Kids’ Summer Specials Kool Kids Camp Al Bandar Hotel and Resort, Sitra Activities include tennis, basic swimming, dance and scuba diving for kids aged eight and above. Transportation available. Camp runs until 19th July, from 8.30am to 2pm.

For non-members, BD195 for five weeks and BD140 for four weeks, while the fee is less for members.

Tel. +973 1770 1702 (Ext 330).

Alliance Française, Isa Town Offering weekly courses in July and August for a diversity of activities for children in French, including sports, crafts, theatre, songs and games.

Tel. +973 1768 3295 or email: info@afbahrain.com or visit www.afbahrain.com Al Dana Nursery, Ghufool Classes in elocution, origami, painting, dance, games, academic coaching, collage work, drawing, singing, cookery, quizzes and educational coaching and trips. Priced at BD40 per month including materials and BD5 for registration. Runs from 2nd to 29th June, 8am to 12pm for four to eight year olds.

Tel. +973 1725 3541 or +973 1724 1193.

Bright Beginnings Day Care & Child Development Centre, Adliya Arts and crafts, pottery, painting, music and movement and many more activities. Runs from 1st July to 12th August, from 8.30am to 12.30pm. Priced at BD60 per week, child care also available.

Tel. +973 1771 0405.

Al Nejdawi Gymnasium & Tae Kwon Do Centre, Isa Town Competitions in artistic gymnastics, tae kwon do, football, swimming, drawing and memorization of The Holy Quran, plus field trips in Bahrain. From 20th June, for five to twelve year olds.

Tel. +973 3946 5046, +973 3363 3713 or +973 3362 3890.

Bapco Club, Awali Bowling, swimming, tae kwon do, leadership skills (Toastmaster Youth Leadership Programme). Open for Bapco employees’ kids. Runs till 19th July, for six to 18 year olds.

Tel. +973 1775 3666.

Berlitz Language School, Budaiya/Adliya Signature language and communication soft skills courses for kids and teens.

Tel. +973 1769 4233 or email: reception2@berlitz-bahrain.com The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa, Seef Mix of fun, learning and adventure – football tournament, tennis, fishing, boat trips, camp fire, mathematics, science & cooking classes & camp sleepover will be offered. From 17th June, 10am to 4pm, for four to twelve year olds. BD119 for non-members per four-day course or BD30 per day.

Tel. +973 1758 9380.

British School of Bahrain, Hamala Indoor sports, trips, drama, music, arts and crafts, swimming, cooking, projects, and dance. For three age groups from two and a half to eleven years. 8th to 19th July at BD15 per day. BD70 for one week and BD130 for two weeks.

Tel. +973 1761 0943, +973 1761 0973, +973 1761 0971.

Bahrain Science Centre, Isa Town From science shows, story-telling and crafts to educational games, there’s something for everyone at the interactive workshops. The centre is sure to get kids thinking with fun filled games and hands-on activities. 9am to 1pm and 5pm to 8pm, from 1st to 20th July and from 10am to 2pm, and 8am to 11pm from 21st July to 21st August.

Tel. +973 1368 4686.

Bahrain Tennis Federation, Bahrain University Tennis Centre, Isa Town Summer tennis camp for children of all nationalities. Mondays and Wednesdays, from 5pm to 6.30pm, 20th June to 19th July.

For six to twelve year olds.

Tel. +973 3944 1992.

Budaiya Pre-School, Janabiya Variety of creative, fun and challenging activities, plus supervised outings for older kids. From 8.15am to 12pm, until 26th July.

For two to seven year olds. Supervised transport available from Saar and Budaiya.

BD55 per week or BD45 for three days per week, BD40 for two days per week.

Tel. +973 1779 1491.

Indian Club, Gudaibiya Activities include public speaking, youth leadership programme, arts and crafts, music, dances, sports, games, movie mornings, educational and sightseeing trips.

9am to 1pm, from 9th July to 15th August.

For six to 16 year olds. Members BD50, others BD55. Transport available.

Tel. +973 3986 1266 or +973 3940 1279.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 19

Kids’ Summer Specials Bahrain City Centre

Latin Dance Studio, Budaiya

Five-day camps including visit to Wahooo!

Waterpark, Magic Planet and Cineco plus cookie decorating and baking classes. 1st to 12th July, from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

Registration forms are available from the customer service desk at ground floor.

Tel. +973 1717 7777.

Latin dance, hip hop and break dance classes. Runs until 15th July, on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4pm to 5pm at BD50 per month.

Delmon International Hotel, Manama Swimming classes as well as yoga, meditation, dance and music. On Fridays, Saturdays and Wednesdays from 8th July, 5pm to 6.30pm and 6pm to 7pm.

BD30 per month.

Tel. +973 3388 9821 or email: latin.dance.studio@hotmail.com

English language courses already underway – enquire for details of others starting soon. Runs until 30th July, for six to 16 year olds.

Play, Upper Level, New Extension, Seef Mall

Tel. +973 1759 0895.

Tel. +973 1722 4000.

Early Learners Nursery, Saar Arts and crafts, cookery, sports, games and basic gymnastics, mini aerobics, plus computer skills. 9am to 12.30pm, 8th July to 21st August. For two to six year olds. BD55 per week or BD12 per day (including snacks & drinks).

Arts and crafts, cooking, papermache, ‘soft play’, swimming, indoor games with slides and climbers and a weekly fun splash day.

8am to 12pm, from 1st July to 16th August.

BD50 per week and BD320 for seven weeks.

Tel. +973 1769 4356.

Tel. +973 3972 3990 or +973 1361 3972.

Middle East Hotel, Manama

Indian School, Isa Town

Swimming and karate classes for children.

On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1st July.

Swimming, cricket, badminton, yoga, martial arts, leadership training, painting and public speaking classes. From 8am to 12pm, 8th July to 23rd August. Registration forms available at school.

Tel. +973 3967 5947.

Kalabhavan Music & Arts Centre, Adliya Keyboard, guitar, table, drums, violin, rhythm pad, carnatic and light music, bharatanatyam dance, drawing and painting, landscaping and portrait, yoga and karate. Saturday to Thursday, starting 1st July. From 9am to 1pm and 4pm to 8pm.

Tel. +973 1771 7271 or +973 1771 7017.

Tel. +973 3907 9142.

Active and imaginative play, arts and crafts, group activities and much more. 1st to 19th July, for three to ten year olds. BD15 daily, BD70 weekly.

Tel. +973 1756 4900 or email: info@playbahrain.com Ras Ruman Youth Centre Training in Arabic calligraphy, drawing and painting, handiwork, glass painting, Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Excel. From 4.30pm to 6.30pm, Sunday to Thursday for children of all age groups. BD5 per class.

Tel. +973 3942 6989.

RIA Centre, Villa 413, Road 2619, Adliya

My Gym Children’s Fitness Centre, Seef From 9am to 1pm, 8th July to 30th August for three to seven year olds. Enquire for more information on activities offered. BD10 for members and BD13 non-members.

Tel. +973 1756 6566 or email: mygym-bahrain@aim.com

Many activities including horse-riding, music, computer games, tennis, swimming, table tennis, picnics, tae kwon do, talent shows, ballet plus trips twice a week. 1st to 26th July, 10.30am to 3.30om from Sunday to Thursday. For three to 16 year olds.

Tel. +973 1603 3333 or email: iscmanama@sabis.net, or visit: www.sabis.net

Lingo Ease Language Centre, Al Nasir Garden, Budaiya Highway

Little Gems Pre-School, Barbar

International School of Choueifat, Amwaj Islands

‘Fun and Laughter Factory’ with music and movement, arts and crafts, splash pool, games, yoga and laughter classes, facepainting and sports. From 8am to 3pm, 1st July to 16th August. BD20 per week for 8am to 12pm or BD30 per week for 8am to 3pm and registration for BD5.

Tel. +973 1771 6871 or email: info@ria-institute.com Studio Ceramics, Budaiya “Mad Science Camp” from 9am to 1pm from 8th July (early drop off option at 8am). For six years and above. Ceramic painting, playing with clay, cool crafts, crazy cooking, games, prizes and other Mad Science activities.

BD15 per day or BD60 per week.

Tel. +973 1759 9026 or email: studioceramics@batelco.com.bh Sylvan Learning Centre, Sehla Indoor and outdoor activities to help improve reading, writing, maths, swimming, cookery, arts and crafts mixed in with fun games and projects. From 1st July to 19th July for four to eleven year olds. BD100 per week. Includes academic tests and report card.

Tel. +973 1740 0227 or +973 3639 9888.

Many thanks to Susan Cook who supplied the information.

20 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

New In Town

Velloci is a brand new shopping experience based right here in Bahrain.

The store supplies an exclusive range of clothes, accessories and gifts for men and women including the world’s leading brands and designers and a new range of Arabic inspired apparel. Also available are a wide selection of gifts and customized articles to meet even the most individual of tastes. Taking fashion forward into the 21st century, the web-based shop gives you all the benefits of browsing from the comfort of your own home, via the brilliantly designed and easy to navigate website. Velloci has the added advantage of having an ‘in the flesh’ shop where you can try on, pick up, pay and browse - or goods can be delivered right to your doorstep the next day for the ultimate convenience. Velloci is constantly searching the globe for the best and most reasonably priced bargains from the fashion world for their customers.

Customer service is at the very heart of their business philosophy - if there is something you would love to see or can’t

New In

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

Keep Your Children Safe

T&S Child Safety is the only provider of professional baby-proofing services to households and commercial businesses in Bahrain. Founded by Bahraini mother Mona Tadayyon, T&S Child Safety has expanded into an inspired and shared vision of providing families in Bahrain with baby-proofing and home safety services. It is dedicated to reducing the number of accidental injuries to children. It is also a member of the International Association for Child Safety. They offer baby-proofing assessments, childproofing products and professional childproofing installation to help caregivers create safer places for babies and toddlers to learn, grow, and explore.

For more information, Tel. +973 3364 0040 or visit www.tschildsafety.com

22 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

buy in Bahrain you can use the “on demand products” feature on the website - through which you can request products that you are looking for. Driven by demand, there are already ranges of unique and fun products, from customized stethoscopes to t-shirts, the potential is endless!

For more information scan the QR code or visit www.velloci.com or check out Facebook at www.facebook.com/VELLOCI or Twitter: @VELLOCI

Find Out What’s On & When - ‘Bahrainivents’

If you are looking for something to do or somewhere to go and feel like there’s no quick source you can turn to for all events happening on the island - Bahrainivents.com is the answer! Initially it just contained the current month’s events, but now it has event listings for the entire year. On the site, you won’t just see the big events that are advertised anyway, but smaller events that go unnoticed. The site is also hoping to become a collection point for people’s comments and feedback as they attend those events. There’s also a special section for bargain seekers, where you can find discounts and special offers from around the Kingdom. Happy browsing!

(Information available in English and Arabic.)

Visit www.bahrainivents.com or if you would like your event to be listed, email: events@bahrainivents.com

New In Town It’s All in 3D - Happy Viewing!

LG Electronics has launched its latest Cinema 3D Smart TV line-up in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The LG Cinema 3D Smart TV has set a new world record for the narrowest bezel 3D TV. It is equipped with the most advanced 3D technology, for a smoother and more immersive 3D viewing bringing a limitless world of entertainment at the tip of your TV remote. With their new line-up, LG have taken the 3D Smart userexperience to a much higher level.

The main features of the LG Cinema 3D Smart TV includes Cinema Screen, 3D Depth Control, 3D Sound Zooming, Magic Remote, 3D World, Dual Play function, Wireless Display, Film Pattern Retarder (FPR) technology, 2D to 3D conversion engine, Smart TV eco-system and Smart Share Plus.

Summer Spills into Bahrain City Centre!

This summer, Bahrain City Centre is making a splash by offering visitors to the mall the chance to beat the heat. Up until 15th July, customers spending a total of BD25 will have a chance to win one of four Kids’ Seascooters, a GTR Seascooter, a Limited Edition version GTR Seascooter, or a 15ft Jet Boat – all worth a whopping BD27,000! All prizes will come equipped with life jackets.

Wahooo! Waterpark will also spill out into the mall, with a photo booth. Every Sunday to Wednesday, the first 50 customers who have their photo taken will be given tickets to the waterpark.

Wahooo!’s playful mascot, Squirtle will also be making special appearances for additional photo opportunities. From 1st to 12th July, Bahrain City Centre is hosting a Summer Camp for kids.

Activities will include a visit to Wahooo!

Waterpark, cookie decorating and baking lessons, as well as a trip to the indoor entertainment venues including Magic Planet and Cineco! Each camp will run for five days from 10.30am to 1.30pm. Registration forms can be picked up from the Bahrain City Centre customer service desk, located on the ground floor.

Tel. +973 1717 7777 or visit www.bahraincitycentre.com

Zain unveiled best Samsung Galaxy SIII deal

The Route to Beirut!

‘BeyRoute’ - the new Lebanese bistro in town has it all, from authentic Lebanese cuisine to organic deli products straight from Lebanon. Ever noticed how many restaurants pop up on the island, promising authentic Lebanese cuisine, and then eventually disappear because the quality of food goes down so fast? That’s not the case with BeyRoute who specialise in real Lebanese food, prepared by Lebanese chefs every time it comes to your table. They also have a deli that sells organic pickles, jams and much more - flown in from Lebanon. The soothing sounds from the fountain bubbling outside and the overall ambiance is very relaxing. The attention to detail is remarkable, and everything is imported from Lebanon - from the mosaic on the floors to the sink in the toilet! If you’ve been lucky enough to have visited Beirut, this place will give you flashbacks. The taste has not been ‘commercialised’ and the quality is definitely not compromised. Open from 10am to 11pm, this casual bistro has all you could ask for.

Tel. +973 1728 0111.

Zain Bahrain, recently launched the new Samsung Galaxy SIII smartphone, in both white and pebble-blue colors, through a partnership with Samsung. Customers can get the Galaxy SIII for only BD35 with 12 month commitment or free with 18 month commitment when subscribing to SMARTPlan2 with a monthly rental of only BD22 per month.

The Galaxy SIII is available for Free on 12 month commitment on SMARTPlan3 with a monthly rental of only BD33 per month. Both SMARTPlan1 and SMARTPlan2 offer generous free local minutes, data, and SMS.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 23

‘Sabeecha - Arabian Beauty II’

Art Space

24 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Art Space

Between Emotions

and Meditation

Meet Mohammad Al Shaikh, who is not your regular high school kid - but has the passions, dreams and aspirations of a budding artist - as Maliha Aqueel speaks to this young entrepreneur.

I

“When I meditate, I see a vision and the spirituality and energy I feel make it all come together in the painting.”

‘Love’

n an incredibly spiritual setting, with a fountain bubbling outside and surrounded by Feng Shui, inspired pieces, sits this 17-year-old who is both an artist and a sharp entrepreneur - as rare a combination as there ever was. In his A levels, he studies Art, Economics and Business - and those are his passions too. At 16, he already had an art gallery of his.

Mohammad Al Shaikh is emerging onto Bahrain’s art scene, his works range from cultural and heritage focused, to religious and meditative. He has displayed his work at Al Ala Art Gallery, BSPCA, Bahrain Framing Centre and at his school, St Christopher’s.

He started Al Shaikh galleries almost a year ago. It’s an online store, where customers can buy art from various solo artists. Mohammad describes it as a ‘Tesco for art’, with delivery is promised within 48 hours in Bahrain.

“The galleries here don’t really do branded art and most solo artists are always bankrupt. So I saw a gap in the market, and started Al Shaikh gallery,” says Mohammad.

“Al Shaikh Art Gallery is focused on artists who have solo careers”. Even though Mohammad is the sole owner of Al Shaikh Gallery, he works with a team and a host of local galleries collaborate with him - like Al Riwaq Art Space and AlBareh Art Gallery.

Mohammad has some solid advice for other young entrepreneurs. “What makes you fail is the fear of taking a risk, but risks should only be taken after researching the market,” he says. He also advises youngsters who want to start their own businesses that success does not happen overnight.

“Patience, determination and courage are the three foundations of my success as an entrepreneur,” explains Mohammad.

Mohammad Al Shaikh

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 25

Art Space “Mohammad describes it as a ‘Tesco for art’, with delivery is promised within 48 hours in Bahrain.”

‘Sabeecha - Arabian Beauty I’

His inspirations are many - including Bahrain’s art, architecture and culture, which is what his first series of paintings focused on. “Bahrain’s culture is alive, even with all the advancements that we can see on the surface,” says Mohammad. He explains that the name Al Shaikh means “nobility and purity” and this is what he hopes to achieve in his paintings too. The architecture of old Arabia inspires him, including that of Qal’at al Bahrain (Bahrain Fort).

Meditation also plays a major role in Mohammad’s art. In a series of paintings, he meditated holding different gems. With the canvas and paints placed before him and his eyes closed, Mohammad painted. What came out were works of art with stunning similarities in tone and colour to the gem he held, enclosed in the palm of his hand.

Using Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Jade and Ametrine among many others, Mohammad explains the special healing powers contained within these gems. The Rose Quartz represents love and peace, while Jade is for wealth and protection. “When I meditate, I see a vision and the spirituality and energy I feel make it all come together in the painting,” he describes.

His work, though youthful at times, speaks volumes. His series on human emotions is haunting and pulls you in - while his work on religions is deep and fervent.

Mohammad is not 18 yet, but plans to open a physical art gallery as soon as he legally can. He is looking at Adliya as a possible place to open it, because “Adliya is one of the places in Bahrain with a lot of art attention.” This art gallery will also contain a studio, a place that Mohammad

26 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

‘House of Honours’

describes as a sanctuary where artists can unleash their inner creativity and paint their hearts out. His future plans also include placing interactive boards with touch screens at major malls in Bahrain, so customers can browse and order art online.

Presently, Al Shaikh Gallery is offering all artists free membership to display and sell their art online.

Orders are delivered within 48 hours in Bahrain and the prices range from BD40 to BD150

‘Calligraphy’

Sign up to be a member at www.alshaikhgalleries.com and get a newsletter with updates on the art scene in Bahrain.

To contact the artist, Tel. +973 3848 8466 or email: mohammad@alshaikhgalleries.com

Sheer Luxury

Indulge Into The Spectacular The Dragon Bracelet

Strength, personality and good luck describe this magnificent piece inspired by the Dragon, a symbol of strength and power, like the woman who wears this spectacular jewel.

The matte-shine effect on gold can be fully appreciated with the perfectly sculpted scales along the length of the body of this mythological animal.

The jewel is made entirely by hand by Carrera y Carrera’s master jewellers, whose savoir-faire is reflected in the complex mounting of the piece.

For more information, visit www.carreraycarrera.com

28 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

B.zero1 by Bulgari

Luxurious Marbles

Sheer Luxury

A symbol of the design and style of Bulgari jewellery, the B.zero1 ring affirms its amazing spirit with the launch of an original version in which the famous spiral is paired with a new, precious protagonist: marble.

In a balancing act between its original elements, the new B.zero1 combines rose gold with three stunning varieties of marble: green bowenite, lapis blue, tobacco brown.

Bulgari is available in Al A’ali Mall, Tel. +973 1758 2559.

30 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Poetry

David Hollywood As summer creeps in and the green starts to fade into the dusty desert, David Hollywood captures the essence of change.

Weathers Past And measured glance towards the past, Denys our destines futures cast, As dry, and what shall come to pass, Reflects the doom that’s seen at last.

A catastroph will become our shock, When slipping on a submerged rock, We see beneath, the sea has died, And all above the earth is dried, While washed with tempests nightmares moan, We drown in stagnant waves of foam, And seas discover, we’re to blame, As storms freeze rain on arid plain, And empty will the visions see, A sphere with landscapes not to be.

David Hollywood

32 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

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

We angst a fear, foreshadowed fate, Bout weathers path, as perils bait, Our climate, like a demons gain, Whose future hails degrees of flame.

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

Bahrain

by John R Ridley

Photography by Patrick Ridley

Two magnificent ships, a Sambuk and a Jebut, stand on the waterfront of Muharraq; traditionally used for pearling, the ships have been built to commemorate the proud maritime history of The Kingdom of Bahrain.

34 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

C

lose by, Mohammad and Rashid are restoring an old hulk to its former glory, another hundred years of sailing the Arabian Gulf lie ahead for this majestic Bahraini Banoosh - the most common of the Arabian dhows, used in fishing and coastal trading. Alongside, Ibrahim has just begun building another 20 metre Banoosh, teams of craftsmen are busy fashioning the keel; soon a new ship will emerge from the shores of Muharraq.

Whilst the Gulf’s cities are among the most modern in the world, the wooden Arabian dhow, evoking images of pearl divers, fishermen and legendary Arab seafaring merchants, continues to play an important part in the economies of the region.

Old Hulk’ – An old Bahraini Banoosh under restoration

The Last Ship Builders Of Muharraq

“We can only build one boat of this size each year, as the wood is increasingly difficult to source.”

Bahrain The deck of the Sambuk under construction

“Evolution and heritage have always been complementary; we take as much pride in our progress as we do in our inheritance.”

Around the Gulf, on sheltered creeks or bays, a few craftsmen continue the art of dhow building; an art passed from generation to generation. In Bahrain only Ibrahim Amu Mohammad, Mohammad Ali Ismail (Ibrahim’s uncle) and Wahid Rashi Al Dosari continue this work. Mohammad, now an elderly gentleman, has been building dhows since the age of twelve. His experience, craftsmanship and remarkable eye for detail are apparent in the beautiful ships he has built.

The three men do this work out of love of their country’s heritage; Mohammad and Wahid work full time on the ships, Ibrahim who normally works in a local hotel, dedicates his free time to his passion of boat building. The work, he tells me, “is hard, but it is enjoyable; every day is different and rewarding.”

Mohammad is passionate that others should learn these traditional skills, “There were 15 people building each of the ships; our hope always is that other Bahrainis will come and join us, but sadly most are not interested in this kind of work; we have to train workers from India and Bangladesh.”

The industry began to decline as fibre glass became the building material of choice and people entered the oil industry. Whilst Mohammad recognises the difficulties of recruiting Bahraini staff, he is not deterred, “The skills have all but died out in Bahrain, yet they could be transferable to other industries.”

Whilst fibre glass dhows are still used commercially in Bahrain for fishing, Qatar is now driving a return to wood, using Bahraini built dhows; business though is hard as the wood becomes increasingly difficult to find.

Searching the woodpiles in the boat yard, Ibrahim explained how the dhow builders of the Gulf are noted for their ability to work entirely without plans, judging everything by eye and experience. “We know the design we want to make, then we look for the piece of wood that will fit the need - each piece is chosen individually.”

Whereas European tradition has been to make a framework and then add the hull planking, the Arab dhow builder starts with the stem and stern posts, followed by the

Old Hulk’ – An old Bahraini Banoosh under restoration July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 35

Bahrain

Craftsmen Ibrahim and Mohammad

Below deck of the Sambuk under construction

rough unfinished hull planks - held in place by temporary supporting ribs or templates on the outside. As the hull nears completion the internal reinforcing framework is added.

Below the water line a paste of boiling animal fat mixed with sand will stop the growth of barnacles.

Mohammad’s work is restricted by the availability of suitable wood, “we can only build one boat of this size each year, as the wood is increasingly difficult to source.” His remaining teak woodpile, some of which has been in Bahrain for thirty years, is just enough to build a single ten to fifteen-metre boat.

The teak trees are purchased ready-cut, held together by the last few inches of the trunk, each tree has the name of the person who prepared it carved into the wood.

‘Magnificent Ships - a Sambuk and a Jebut’ built to commemorate the proud maritime history of The Kingdom of Bahrain

36 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Demand for Indian teak, the wood of preference, is intense. The forests are preserved by the Indian Government and so supply is severely restricted. “We have to search for the wood, it may come from Africa or Malaysia, but is not as durable as the Indian and will not last as long; the wood is softer and the colour is different.”

To demonstrate his point, Ibrahim polished small pieces of Indian and African teak with fish oil, the Indian wood is much darker and has a far more vibrant spectrum of colours showing through.

Not only is the teak for the hull and decking in increasingly short supply, urban development has also made the locally sourced Bahraini wood, used for the ribs, difficult to find.

First impressions of the new Sambuk are of the sheer size of the vessel; the deck area is some 200 square metres. Below deck, the ribs of the ship, nailed to the six-inch thick teak hull, are exposed and the remarkable construction becomes clear, as does the skill of the craftsmen who have brought this majestic ship to life.

The new Sambuk and Jelbut, having two masts, follow traditional designs used for pearling. Unlike the pearling vessels of old,

Animal fat and sand paste

Teak trees with carved names

diesel engines have also been fitted.

Ibrahim is proud of the nation’s pearling history, “Each ship, with a crew of 50 to 60 people would stay at sea for 40 days, searching the oyster beds which are 30 to 40 miles off shore.” There is no pearl diving in Bahrain now, the oil industry offered a less arduous life and a regular income.

With his characteristic optimism, Ibrahim adds, “the oyster beds off the coast of Bahrain are healthy and there are plans to resurrect the pearl fishing business.”

Mohammad is certain of a long term future of dhow building in Bahrain. “The demand for wooden dhows is very gradually returning as fishermen realise that glass fibre dhows are not as durable as the wooden ships.” He pauses, “Evolution and heritage have always been complementary; we take as much pride in our progress as we do in our inheritance.”

John Ridley is a journalist who has lived in the Middle East for more than thirty years; he can be contacted at john@johnridley.nu Patrick Ridley is a young photographer, examples of his work can be viewed at http://www.flickr.com/photos/pattysquirrel

You can now read our magazines virtually at www.FashionArabia.net for free at the beginning of every month!

Join our other 50,000 online readers and catch the latest articles, events, photographs and fantastic competitions that are being featured in any one of our three titles.

FashionArabia.net

P.O. Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel. +973 1782 2388, Fax. +973 1772 1722 Email: info@ArabianMagazines.com

Lifestyle

Los Vivancos Brothers Burn The Floor!

by Maliha Aqueel

The Los Vivancos burnt the floor at Bahrain’s Summer Festival with their extreme fusion of Flamenco dancing. Their energy on stage, and mastery of Flamenco fusion, thrilled the crowd.

O

riginally from Spain, the seven brothers have been dancing since childhood - and learnt to play musical instruments before they even learnt to write. Inspired by their father, who was mainly a Flamenco dancer, the brothers danced together as teenagers - performing across the world.

After graduating from the Professional Conservatory of Dance in Barcelona, the Vivancos Brothers decided to each go their own way to get independent professional experience. Close to the end of 2004, the brothers reunited and formed the Flamenco dance company, ‘Los Vivancos’.

They mix together flamenco with classical dance, tap dance, break dance, and even acrobatics and martial arts - and, since they all play music as well - they often compose their shows’ music.

‘Aeternum’ - the show Los Vivancos presented in Bahrain - premiered in April this year in Spain.

The music is composed by Los Vivancos and recorded with more than 100 musicians of Budapest Symphony Orchestra. Daniele Finzi Pasca, known for his work with ‘Cirque du Soleil’, is the artistic director, along with Julie Hamelin and the brothers themselves.

The show had the audience on their feet, screaming and clapping for the brothers who even performed blindfolded, with impeccable footwork, using sticks and martial techniques - and delighted the audience with their upside-down Flamenco.

“For us, being able to perform on the world’s stages is a childhood dream come true.”

38 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Get to know ‘Los Vivancos’ as they talk about everything from their childhood dreams to how they would just love to teleport!

Why Flamenco?

Our father was a Flamenco dancer. He did other forms of dance as well, like classical.

So, as kids we learnt to dance and were very well educated in the arts. During childhood, we all learnt many forms of music and dance like regional dances, flamenco and ballet too.

Describe your style of performance - or Flamenco Fusion as you call it?

Ours is an extreme Flamenco fusion. We have all lived and worked as artists in different countries of the world, so as a group we bring all of that experience together. Our experiences in different forms of dance are fused together in our performances.

Lifestyle

What are you trying to convey to the audiences in your performance?

We want to say that nothing is impossible and dreams can be achieved. We do a lot in our shows, in terms of our performance, we just give it all. For us, being able to perform on the world’s stages is a childhood dream come true. And since we are family, there is a lot of energy between us on stage.

We even do things that are risky for us, like performing with blindfolds on. At our performances, we want the audience to forget the world, forget their worries and just lose themselves in the performance.

After going separate ways for a while, what made you decide to come back together in 2004?

Even as children, we were always together and had the dream to form a dance group when we all grow up and gain the experience. So, the idea was always there.

How is being together as Los Vivancos different from when you were together as teenagers?

When we learnt so much as individuals in our different experiences around the world, collectively, we all learnt a lot. We have a healthy competition now where we push each other to do better. But as a team, we have always been the same ... we used to dream to be here as teenagers. We were really ambitious. And now that we are here, we dream of being somewhere else as Los Vivancos. So in some ways it’s different, but in many ways it’s the same.

“We do wish we could just think about a location and get there ... like teleporting!

In a few years maybe?” that everyone can understand, anywhere we have performed in the world. There is another side that the audience can’t always get like it is with films and music. But we do appeal to a very big audience.

What do you think of the actual travel part, the time spent on planes and trains?

Oh, it’s just really tiring ... the ten hour flights drain us out. We love going to different countries though, and we have enjoyed every single country! It’s great because we stay together as a family too.

We do wish we could just think about a location and get there ... like teleporting! In a few years maybe?

Apart from the travel, how physically demanding is this profession?

Our bodies are our instruments and we have to take good care of them. After this interview, we are off to the gym! We don’t smoke or drink at all, we exercise a lot and are into sports. You have to really love Flamenco to be able to do this. For our current show, ‘Aeternum’, we have trained for a whole year, twelve hours a day! You go to sleep with it, you wake up with it. The footwork in the show requires the muscles to be highly trained for such intense pressure.

In the show, we have a metallic structure and hang upside down to perform Flamenco. We train like race horses!

Do you think dance truly transgresses cultural boundaries?

There is one side of dance

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 39

Technology Gigabyte X11 Lightest Ultrabook Ever

If the weight of a notebook is a concern, then Gigabyte has just the thing for you! The X11, Gigabyte’s new flagship ultrabook, is a slim beauty which gives it an appeal similar to the MacBook Air. The 11.6 inch ultrabook weighs just under one kilogram. The X11 uses the “6th Element“ or Carbon Fiber - a strong, but very light material. Gigabyte X11 sports a highly integrated motherboard, an Ivy Bridge processor, a Bluetooth connectivity of 4.0, two USB ports of 3.0, an SSD of 128GB, and a small 35Wh battery. A close look suggests that it has borrowed most of its design features from Apple. The notebook has dual aluminium alloy air vents and a black diamond wave pattern cover.

Gadgets

Samsung Music Hub

Rule!

iTechbahrain.com’s Faisal Ebrahim gives us the lowdown on the latest tech news and gadgets to hit the market.

Launched along with the Samsung Galaxy SIII phone is the online music streaming service called Music Hub. It gives users the opportunity to pay to stream their choice of over 19 million songs as well as allowing them to scan and match their entire home musical library to the Music Hub catalogue. It offers an online music store, cloud storage, radio recommendations, and the ability to store music files on PC for offline listening.

Canon’s Latest Hits

BD133

Canon has launched the IXUS 500 HS and IXUS 125 HS in the Middle East. The two models combine advanced features with compact design. The IXUS 500 packs 12x optical zoom into a tiny, 19.2 mm body. It is available in red, blue, black and silver, while the IXUS 125 is offered in pink, red, silver, green and blue. Both models feature Canon’s HS System with the latest DIGIC 5 image processor, capturing detailed, flattering shots without needing to use the flash, even in low light. Both models feature a range of fun effects for the photos.

BD102

Dell XPS One 27

Starting price of BD530

It seems that Dell has taken up the challenge to compete with Apple in the all-in-one PC category. Matching the iMac for feature, style, and functionality, the Dell XPS One 27 has arrived to take a share of this market. The XPS 27 is one of the first Dell products to run on Ivy Bridge processors with a choice of either Core i5 or i7. Unlike other Dell all-in-one offers, the XPS 27 does not lack in the style department with its sleek metallic finish. It has a widescreen 27-inch full quad HD plus a wireless keyboard and mouse and a slot-loading disc drive. The XPS 27 is not touch-enabled, which is a bit of a downer considering that the upcoming Windows 8 system will come with touch features. The XPS One 27 is available in Asia for a starting price of USD1,399 (BD530).

For more on latest technology updates, contact Faisal Ebrahim on email: faisal@itechbahrain.com or visit: www.itechbahrain.com

40 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

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Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

Issue

Gulf Financial Insider

•

108

Issue 79 • December 11

The multi-award winning Arabian magazine

GulfInsider -The Arabian Review MADE IN BAHRAIN

BAHRAIN

Monthly focus on Bahraini companies making a difference in the community.

This month featuring:

Bahrain’s History in

TAIB Bank

Exclusive:

Andrew Cole, Football Legend

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2012 Luxury

Festive Parties

Exclusive Interviews

The Arab Spring

For more information contact: Formula One Memories Rizwan Mumtaz is leaving his mark after project managing and ‘pioneering’ the Formula One race track ‌

Out and About

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The Biggest Parties Leading Up to 2012

Equal Chances for Expat Business

Make Gulf Roads Safer

Pictures

Bahrain Festivities!

Issue 82

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Bahrain BD2

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Tel. +973 1782 2388 Email: redia@ArabianMagazines.com www.ArabianMagazines.com

Living

Unique & Chic

A new, exclusive

furniture and interiors boutique is set to open its doors . this month in the Seef area

“Every piece is designed to the requirements of the client.”

C

asa Lusso is a shop full of luscious, fashion-forward furniture. The exclusive boutique caters to exquisite tastes and designer items. All the furniture found in store is designed exclusively for Casa Lusso and cannot be found anywhere else in the market.

Opening this month, the showroom features all types of furniture and accessories like chandeliers and lamps. The classic yet modern feel of the furniture is an instant attraction, while the custom designed accessories give your home decor that little extra edge.

“The most unique aspect of Casa Lusso is that every piece is designed to the requirements of the client, which means that the pieces we produce or exhibit are not commercial, so clients get their own unique design,” says Fadi Eweida, Managing Director and Chief Interior Designer at Casa Lusso.

What also makes this furniture store stand out is that their designs appeal to the tastes of both locals and expats living on the island. Design services are offered free of charge and Casa Lusso is targeting those who are looking to create a real home and not just furnish a house.

The furniture at Casa Lusso is graceful, yet comfortable and functional - a rare combination indeed Tel. +973 3990 6959 or visit Casa Lusso at Showroom No. 668, Road 3615, Block 436, Seef Area.

42 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

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Bahrain’s largest circulated Arabic womens’ magazine

Areej magazine is NOT just another foreign franchise magazine title. It is 100% created and based in Bahrain. It is also Bahrain’s largest circulated Arabic lifestyle magazine, covering Bahrain lifestyle, luxury, fashion, society...and ‘what to do’.

www.FashionArabia.net

Advertorial

Hani Royal Hotel The lavish Hani Royal Hotel opened its doors this year, to welcome guests and diners into the opulent surroundings its name has come to represent.

H

ani Royal Hotel opened to the public in February this year, providing a unique and extravagant hotel, restaurant and spa experience.

Located in the Al Seef district, a stone’s throw from Bahrain’s main shopping malls, souk and Central Business District, it is the perfect location for a stay in Bahrain, for families and corporate travellers alike.

The hotel offers a variety of rooms, decorated in either Italian or Arabic style, to make guests feel truly comfortable in the surroundings that best meet their tastes and styles. The Italian style offers modern furnishings, based on a monochrome palate, for the stylish and discerning customer. Each room has individual and impressive touches that really give that wow factor, with modern feature bathrooms and the highest quality finish. Alternatively, the Arabic style, with its mixture of warm colours, ornate wood and colorful lanterns, provides a comfortable and homely atmosphere capturing the very essence of the Middle East.

44 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

H Restaurant

“Each room has individual and impressive touches that really give that wow factor.”

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

For convenience and corporate travel, rooms are complete with complimentary WiFi. Business travellers can avail of a dedicated home office area, ensuring that everything you need is there, in the comfort of your own room. Private conference facilities can also be made available upon request.

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

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

The international ‘H’ restaurant, located on the ground floor provides a wide menu of delectable food from 7am until midnight.

Or, relax in the the lounge area where the chilled atmosphere is perfect for an evening sipping mocktails or enjoying a coffee and chat with friends

For more information visit www.haniroyalhotel.com, Tel. +973 1758 1100 or email: reservation@haniroyalhotel.com

Hospitality with a touch of luxury...

Amidst the Kingdom’s central business district, in the heart of Al Seef area, you will find our luxurious and stylish hotel and fully furnished suites. Hani Royal Hotel and Hani Suites & Spa offer world class five star quality with a unique style, and services for the weekend traveller or family alike. Every detail has been thought of to ensure a memorable stay with us and an extravagant atmosphere without comparison….

“Your Home Away From Home”

P.O. Box 20223 | Al Seef | Kingdom of Bahrain Tel. + 973 17 581100 | Fax + 973 17 111088 E-mail: reservation@hanisuites.com

www.haniroyalhotel.com

Health

Eye Care Matters Looking after your health and lifestyle should include looking after your eyes as well.

Optica store in Seef Mall

F

or all your eye care needs, Optica have you covered. Previously known as Bahrain Optician, Optica have been in business for 40 years. They go beyond just selling high quality eyewear and give great importance to eye health with a team of qualified Optometrists who hold licenses from the Ministry of Health. You’re in safe hands when you pick Optica for detailed eye examinations.

Eye care specialists at Optica offer a list of simple steps to follow to keep you seeing your best: • Have your eyes tested regularly.

• Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Broccoli, spinach, sweet corn, oranges and

46 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Optica store in Bahrain City Centre

yellow peppers, kiwi and mangoes all contain substances that protect against certain eye conditions.

• Shield your eyes from the sun with sunglasses or tinted lenses that carry the UV400 mark. Avoid using replica sunglasses; they do not provide 100 per cent UV protection.

• Smokers are three times more likely to develop cataracts than non-smokers.

Try bidding adieu to smoking!

• If you use a computer, take short frequent breaks to prevent eye strain and tiredness or look up occasionally and focus on something in the distance.

• If you get dust, sand or grit in your eye, do not rub it. Pull your upper eyelid over the bottom eyelid and blink frequently to encourage your tears to naturally wash your eyes.

• Contact lens wearers must get their lenses and eyes checked more regularly than spectacle wearers and also keep a firm eye on their contact lens solution expiry date.

SUMMER PROMOTIONS:

• Free Eye Test • 25 - 60% discount on selected Sunglasses brands including latest collections • 25% discount on complete pair (Frame + Prescription Lenses)

Optica store in Juffair

Get prescription glasses delivered free to your home with a purchase of BD100 or more.

Try the new online eye-test booking system at www.optica.net or the online store finder to find an Optica store near you or Tel. +973 1700 0250.

Shopping News One Top, Many Looks

The ‘Feel’ top by Salsa can be adjusted and worn as a top, dress, t-shirt and even a skirt.

Every look can be transformed and adapted to an endless variety of fits. It’s extra resistant, elastic and doesn’t wrinkle.

Available in five colours. A must for your suitcase when travelling this summer! Salsa Jeans is located at Bahrain City Centre.

Fashion For A Good Cause!

‘Being Human’ is a charity initiative by famous Bollywood star, Salman Khan, to support education and healthcare for the underprivileged. The line-up offers 29 options in t-shirts for men. Semi-formal trousers, denims, shorts and shirts in various styles are also part of the collection. Splash has partnered with ‘Being Human’ and launched the collection in its stores across the Middle East.

Available at all Splash stores in Bahrain.

It’s Over The Top At H&M!

a t t o G t s u You J Have It!

Fashion Director Anna Dello Russo has designed a special collection of accessories for H&M. Unabashedly glamorous, precious and playful, the range is an expression of Dello Russo’s taste for ornamentation. Available in Bahrain from 4th October, at the peak of the global fashion weeks tour.

The collection features jewellery, sunglasses, shoes, bags and a trolley.

PUMA - Sure To Make Heads Turn!

Designed by Reggae Royalty, Cedella Marley, the Jamaica Track & Field Olympic Wear collection incorporates high-tech fabrics and silhouettes. It takes inspiration from the vibrant colorus and patterns of Jamaica as well as the African influences that have come to characterise that country. PUMA’s Olympic wear is accompanied by a lifestyle collection of apparel, footwear and accessories, now available at PUMA retail stores in Bahrain.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 47

Fashion

BD10.9

D10.9

BD10.9 BD15.9

H&M Bright Hues, Beautiful Silhouettes

Work these bright colours into your wardrobe this summer for a quick upgrade from boring to bright and fashionable!

BD10.9

BD7.9

BD7.9

48 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Fashion

BD19.9 BD22.9 BD19.9

BD15.9 BD22.9

Fashion Frenzy Get into style with our picks of these fashionable H&M pieces!

BD42.9

BD39.9 BD42.9

BD10.9

Zesty Citrus Brights BD22.9

Chic, chic, chic - the three words that describe these colourful creations from H&M.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 49

Fashion BD4.9 BD15.9

BD15.9 BD12.9

Pale Pastels

BD7.9

Perfect for those lazy summer afternoons and long brunches in the summer.

BD10.9

BD10.9

BD7.9

BD10.9

Pretty Florals BD19.9

We recommend adding some attractive and sweet florals to your wardrobe this summer.

BD15.9 BD10.9

BD15.9

H&M Summer Collection available at Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall.

50 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Fashion

BD12.9

BD15.9

BD4.9

BD4.5

H&M

Seriously Cool And Fresh The Summer 2012 collection by H&M is just what you need to upgrade your wardrobe for these days full of sun, fun, cheer and travel.

BD7.9

BD7.9 BD4.9

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 51

Fashion

BD4.9

BD12.9

BD12.9

Beachy, Boaty You’re sure to make heads turn this summer with cool beach wear and accessories.

BD4.5

BD7.9

BD10.9 BD15.9

52 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Fashion

BD4.5

BD4.5

BD12.9

Summer Fresh Keep cool in beachy pales and almost-whites paired with the perfect accessories.

BD10.9 BD32.9

BD10.9

H&M Summer Collection available at Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 53

Fashion

Luxe Bohemian BD8.9 BD33.9

BD33.9

The Point-Toe Pump

BD30.9 BD33.9

BD39

Over the Rainbow

Nine West

BD13.9

BD37.9

From colour blocking to sparkles, tes your Nine West comple 12 collection.

20 /S S r ei th ith w ok lo summer

Perfectly Preppy Blocks of Colour

BD30.9

BD39.9

All that Glitters BD43.9

BD37.9

BD33.9

Available in Bahrain City Centre - Tel. +973 1668 6207, Seef Mall - Tel. +973 1668 6220 and Bahrain Mall - Tel. +973 1668 6228.

54 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Fashion

Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Hilfiger has all your summer

clothing needs sorted with their S/S 2012 collection. From signature stripes to summer brights, preppy has never looked so good!

BD79.9

BD69.9

Polo Shirts BD54.9 BD64.9

BD36.9

BD54.9

BD26.9

BD49.9

Shoes BD49.9

BD59.9

Summer Dresses

BD64.9 BD49.9

BD64.9

Trousers

BD64.9 BD64.9 Tommy Hilfiger is available in Bahrain City Centre - Tel. +973 1668 6208.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 55

Fashion BD7.9 BD11.9

Fun For Tiny Toes BD6.9

BD12.9

Styles such as denim, punk rock, bright colour blocking and theatre styled ballerinas dominate the Shoe Mart Kids’ collection. Girls will be spoilt for choice with woven gladiators and pumps decorated with shiny bow brooches in neon pink, grass green, silver and navy blue.

The boys can choose from ankle length sneaks to canvas shoes with bright artwork and overlay straps in multi colour, while a selection of comfortable sandals and airy flats is perfect for the outdoors.

BD9.9

BD16.9

BD8.9

BD7.9

BD8.9

Available at all Shoe Mart outlets in Bahrain.

56 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Fashion Signature Hanging Beauty Bag

Small - BD8.5

BD20

Nylon Cosmetic Cases

BD16.5 Large - BD15.5

Coin Purse with Key Chain Envelope Ipad Case Silver

Medium - BD11.5 Flat Wristlet

BD13.5

BD18.5

Signature Trio Set

Envelope Business Card Case

Travel in Style!

BD42.5

Leather Mini Continental Wallet

Leather - BD16.5

!! !

T O H , T O H , HOT

BD16.5

BD42

Travelling this summer?

Look no further than the sweet luggage options from Victoria’s Secret. Out this month, the collection is perfect for summer travel - with statement trolleys and weekenders to cute coin

purses and computer cases.

Keep your passport safe by choosing one of the attractive passport covers. Travel with the giant, yet stylish and comfy, totes that will let you fit everything in.

Nylon - BD14

Passport Cover

New collection available in Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall from 15th July.

BD18.5

Trolley Bag - BD71.5

Nylon East - West Tote

Nylon Wheeled Duffle

BD22.5

Nylon Computer Bag

Weekender - BD32.5 BD7.5 Signature Pencil Case July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 57

Makeover

Makeover The

We fill you in on our makeover candidate, Najeia Albinali’s progress as Bahrain Confidential and our partners pamper her for a new look and a fresh take on life ...

Najeia during the makeover

Najeia’s Cosmetic Treatments with Dr Dean Cunha Gomes

Najeia had crow’s feet around her eyes and sagging nasolabial folds (smile lines).

Dr Dean injected fillers to correct the smile lines, whilst maintaining an overall natural look when Najeia smiles. But, with fillers, the permanent deep depressions of her smile lines are gone. The fillers take immediate effect so Najeia looked visibly younger and

fresher just after the session.

Najeia receives Botox treatment from Dr Dean

He used Botox to reduce the wrinkles, lines on her forehead and crow’s feet around the eyes. This was also done keeping in mind the natural contours and lines of the face - and Najeia can still ‘smile with her eyes’!

For her body, Najeia is getting the Velasmooth treatment on her upper thighs - to address the appearance of cellulite or the ‘orange-peel effect’.

Call Dr Dean at the Royal Bahrain Hospital on Tel. +973 1724 6857 or 1724 6939.

Najeia’s Facial Treatments at Lei Garden Skincare

Najeia gets the M.A.R.T.A facial treatment

To address the tired skin, eye bags, under-eye circles, and open pores on Najeia’s skin, she is getting the M.A.R.T.A facial treatments done at Lei Garden Skincare. As she goes through the process, her skin looks younger and fresher. With the M.A.R.T.A Anti-Ageing, and Face Lift Facial treatments, wrinkles are visibly outstretched, the colour of the skin is uniform and luminous, and Najeia’s face has a relaxed and rejuvenated look.

“My skin is much softer and I feel very relaxed after the facials. But the sessions are going on, so we still have to see the final results,” said Najeia.

For appointments, Tel. +973 1729 0008, email: info@leigardenskincare.com or visit: www.leigardenskincare.com

Najeia’s Life Coaching Session with Kelly Armatage

Kelly Armatage offers counselling, life coaching and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Najeia sat with Kelly for a session.

“The session was very relieving for me. I am like an open book, and the session felt like I was talking to someone I could completely trust. It changed the way I feel about things, especially about my anger,” said Najeia about her experience.

For enquiries, email: info@kellyarmatage.com or Tel. +973 3993 1399 or visit www.kellyarmatage.com

Check this space in our next issue for a photo shoot of the new Najeia Albinali, after the makeover and shopping!

58 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Najeia and Kelly just before the life coaching session

Option 01

Option 02

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

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

an assortment of THE SALON HAS UNDER GONE A STUNNING cuisine.

Tony theContinental dog father and his team have dedicated

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

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East Since 1997

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

TRANSFORMATION &ELDA WHO TRAINED AT THE their time to rescue and help home unwanted, GLOBALLY RENOWNED 6IDAL 3ASSOON 4RAINING abused & stray animals in Bahrain. You can do your !CADEMY AND THE 3HISEIDO 3CHOOL OF MAKE bit too. Purchase aUP OFFERS THE LATEST HAIR MAKE UP SERVICES Second Chance calendar for AS WELL AS MANICURES PEDICURES AND NAIL BD5 and all proceeds go directly to supporting the EXTENSIONS AT VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES animals and the rescue centre.

SIT TIGHT

Please call Linda on 3980 2200 or &OR MORE DETAILS if you’re interested 4EL in adopting a cat or dog (or both) for life

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

Tel: 17 725550 email: ricsbah@yahoo.com

www.FashionArabia.net

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

Beauty

BD9* Estée Lauder Pure Colour Cyber Eyes

This new dynamic trend in colour makeup that boldly paints the eyes in graphic pigments is perfect for the summer. This powerfully modern collection features eye shadows in richly pigmented shades with a futuristic, hyper-metallic finish, eye pencils that dazzle and define eyes in strikingly chic hues and mascaras that create a lush display of vibrant colour.

BD16.3* BD16.2*

Beauty

Buzz

BD154

BD4*

Lancôme Absolue L’Extrait

This cream by Lancôme is touted as the ultimate elixir of regeneration. It harnesses the amazing regenerating potential of plant stem cells, capable of stimulating human dermal stem cells.

BD4*

Sally Hansen Salon Manicure Nail Treatment Collection

BD10.1 BD8.1 Smart Makeup by Sephora

Summer is roaring into town in a frenzy of hightech glam. Lips wear a plumped-up pout or a just-bitten glow, the complexion is healthy and hydrated, and never-before-seen lush lashes have the power to bewitch. Sephora has us all kitted out for beauty this summer.

BD4*

Treat your nails like a pro with Sally Hansen’s new nail treatments for a salon perfect manicure at home. From long hours at the office to a jam-packed social schedule, flawless nails are an everyday essential. The collection features cuticle balm, base coat and top coat.

*Approximate prices

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

60 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Beauty HydraQuench by Clarins

C o m p e t i t i o n

W i n n e r s

Congratulations!!!

From the competition featured last month, Deena Al Khamis has won a make-over and BD50 worth of INGLOT products.

Sabrina Anthony and Matt Broughton have each won a make-over and BD25 worth of INGLOT products.

BD29.8

Big Brows Are Back!

The new Bobbi Brown brow kits are perfect for the woman on the go, with everything you need to shape and intensify your brows.

Offered in light and dark shades.

The Natural Brow Shaper and Hair Touch-Up works to define and fill in the brows, and is available in five shades.

BD27.8

BD28.2*

*Approximate prices

Clarins’ HydraQuench Intensive Serum Bi-Phase and HydraQuench Cream Gel provide intense hydration for the skin. The serum is made for the most dehydrated skin - and yet, is light, with a non-oily finish. The cream gel is designed for normal and combination skin, and has a smooth, creamy texture with the cooling effect of a gel.

Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free and Even Better Concealer

Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup is a lightweight liquid foundation that controls oil and shine, so makeup can look flawless and feel comfortable on the skin all day. The Even Better Concealer is designed to help camouflage dark spots and cover under eye circles. With these two, you’re good to go for the humid Bahraini summer!

BD14.25

BD16.5

Makeup Must-Haves!

Maya Diab’s Special Edition Aqua Trousse has her favourite six Aqua products by Makeup Forever. Includes Aqua Rouge, a waterproof lipstick, in a stylish clutch designed by the Diva herself - and all the other musthaves for your makeup needs!

BD37

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 61

Advertorial

The

Pursuit of Youth “We lose vital fat on our face as we age.”

Your nearest and dearest might know how many candles are on your birthday cake each year – but that doesn’t mean everyone should be able to guess!

Ageing may be an (unfortunate) fact of life, but there are plenty of ways to stop that clock in its tracks. …

W

hat is beautiful?

Or, should I say who is beautiful?

One only has to look at the fresh faced images that adorn the fashion pages of magazines (like this one!) to realise it’s not about saggy features, deep lines and thin lips. Or look at the long line of Disney princesses, all epitomising beauty, think Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Pocahontas – very different faces, but what do they have in common that makes them so aesthetically pleasing?

They are all young for a start. And there it is: Beauty is almost synonymous with youth.

Youth brings with it full rose bud lips, plump cheeks and a sparkling complexion-and age, well it doesn’t.

Unfortunately, as the years pass by, we lose collagen, the protein in our skin that The effect of aging

keeps it young, fresh and plump. As this process happens, skin starts to lose its tone and elasticity, accelerated by the effects of sun exposure, pollution and smoking. By the time you reach your forties, the collagen fibers start to decrease, stiffen and break apart, and the skin loses more elasticity and volume. By fifty, hormonal changes such as menopause cause further damage.

To add further insult to injury, we also lose vital fat on our face as we age. First, it goes from round the eyes, then the upper cheeks, cheekbones, sides of the mouth, nose-to-mouth lines and, finally, the forehead and sides of the face. Losing this volume and fullness of a ‘pretty’ and ‘youthful’ face not only has an ageing effect (think juicy grape vs withered raisin), but it can also lead to reduced confidence and self esteem.

Drinking water and staying hydrated can go a long way to keeping everything more healthy – but it only goes so far! Enter the instant effect of cosmetic fillers ...

Dermal fillers are placed under the skin to “plump” it up, helping to lessen the severity of deep lines and wrinkles, moreover, they actually help the skin improve its appearance on its own!

And this doesn’t even count as surgery; it is an injectable treatment that can be done in your lunch hour. And not only for your skin. Lips are by far the most noticeable feature on your face, and they too are subject to the thinning effect of age, which can be countered immediately by the non-invasive injection of lip fillers. Bringing you right back to that fresh faced, full lipped youthful ideal! That just leaves the perfect hair, Prince Charming and happy-ever-after to work on …

For more information contact the Marafie Clinic: Tel. +973 1758 5373 or visit www.marafieclinic.com

62 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Beauty

Dr Dean Cunha-Gomes

Dr Dean answers questions on skin disorders, treating sunburn at home and whether or not to get permanent makeup done.

Ask Dr Dean The inside corners of my eyelids occasionally become red and usually are very dry and flaky. I know it’s not normal, what should I do?

This may be a sign of a disorder called Seborrhoeic Dermatitis. It happens when one has dandruff. Try using an antidandruff shampoo to shampoo your hair daily. When you have applied the shampoo on your scalp, apply a bit of the foam to this area and leave the shampoo/foam on for two minutes and rinse off (not inside the eye). If this doesn’t help then you may need to visit the doctor for prescription medicines.

I have ingrown hair on my chin and they become very stubborn and nearly impossible to pull. Most develop a bump and redness when I try to tweeze them.

What’s the solution?

The hair are coarse enough to penetrate the skin and set up an inflammation which manifests as redness and the bump. If this persists it may leave scars and pigment changes. The solution is to permanently remove the hair with Laser. Amelioration of symptoms may be noted with as few as 1-2 sessions. And 6-8 sessions may be required at monthly intervals for good results.

I have acne scars left from my early 20’s on the left cheek. And that patch is still particularly prone to acne.

What can I do to treat both?

Acne and acne scars need different kinds of therapy. It is best to have the acne under control first, as new eruptions give rise to more scars. Scars can be tackled with

“Sunburns can be treated with milk compresses. Soak a clean cloth in cold milk and keep it on the affected area.” procedures like microdermabrasion, laser resurfacing and chemical peel resurfacing.

I am considering getting permanent makeup done. Do you believe it is better for the skin over putting on makeup every day? What would you advise?

Permanent make is being done by many people. However one has to be watchful as: a) You may develop allergic reactions to the colours used which may persist for as long as the colours are in your body. b) Trends change, and you may not like the present makeup a while later. c) Removal of this makeup may entail surgical procedures or using lasers.

If the daily wear make-up suits your skin, it may be a better choice.

I want to get rid of my facial hair but I have met people who had laser hair removal and the hair came back. What’s the best way to go about it?

Successful laser hair removal depends on numerous factors. Best results are seen in individuals with thick black hair on light skin and no hormonal problems. The best way is to meet with a Laser hair reduction provider who can assess the suitability of Laser for your skin/hair. Some lasers are better than others for thin hair on fair skin.

What’s the best way to treat the emergence of spots on the face?

The best way is to prevent spots from coming, by using daily preventive creams.

Once they have erupted, there are some spot creams available which may help to settle this down quickly. It is obviously better to meet a doctor who can prescribe the right medications to you.

I have noticed the appearance of groups of bumps on my upper arms and it’s increasing. It doesn’t itch and it’s not acne. What is it?

It maybe a condition called Keratosis Pilaris.

It is essential to meet a dermatologist to diagnose and treat it.

I have very visible open pores on my nose and the area around it.

What should I do?

Pore size can be reduced by creams and laser procedures. Use of astringents and toners will also help.

How can I treat sunburn at home?

Sunburns can be treated with milk compresses. Soak a clean cloth in cold milk and keep it on the affected area.

Hydrocortisone cream, available over the counter will also help

If you have any skin or body concerns that you think Dr Gomes can help you with, please email your question to info@ArabianMagazines.com 64 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Health

Teeth Whitening Dr Ali Hussain Al Juffairy, Dental and Oral Surgeon

All the Turkish coffee and Shisha during Ramadan can leave your teeth stained. But it can be fixed! Read on as Dr Ali Juffairy explains the process of teeth whitening and its benefits ...

before

after Teeth Whitening

Dr Ali Hussain Al Juffairy

What are the types of stains our teeth can get?

There are two main types of teeth stains: extrinsic staining on the surface of the teeth, and intrinsic staining within the structure of the teeth.

The latter cannot be fixed with teeth whitening.

But, extrinsic stains can either be completely removed or made less visible through the process of whitening.

Before the whitening process, we isolate the teeth from the gums and the lips. Then we apply the whitening material and use a special device called ‘Zoom Bleaching Device’. It uses ultraviolet light to help the bleaching material penetrate into teeth surface. For difficult stains, we repeat the process and sometimes even give patients whitening kits they can continue to use at home.

What are the main causes of stained teeth?

The main causes include, but are not limited to, excessive use of coffee, tea, or chewing ‘Paan’ and smoking. Any such habit will really harm your teeth by staining it.

What is most important to remember during teeth whitening?

Can you describe the process of teeth whitening?

First of all, we check the patient to see if the stains are extrinsic of intrinsic. If the stains are extrinsic, we continue on to the scaling and polishing part. Then we photograph the patient’s teeth for a ‘before’ picture.

a) Whitening can be done only twice a year, and no more than that. b) Stay away from coffee, tea and smoking - especially during or just after the whitening process when teeth are more prone to staining. c) It is important to remember that the sensitivity you experience during teeth whitening is only temporary.

For more information Tel. +973 1727 3700 or visit the Al Juffairy Clinic Sunday to Thursday, 9am to 6pm. Sixth Floor Flat 63, Mashtan Building 2415, Road 2381, Block 428, next to Almoayyed Tower.

Professional

Arabic to English Translation Service

Fast and inexpensive translation of all types of correspondence, certificates, technical and legal documents.

Accuracy guaranteed.

For further information please call +973 3618 8100 July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 65

Health Deadly Venom Being Used as Medicine

Venom from the Death Stalker Scorpion and the Black Widow Spider are being used to create new treatments for cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. A single sting from the tail of a Death Stalker Scorpion contains about half a teaspoon of venom. The active ingredient is Chlorotoxin, which stops the nervous system communicating properly and causes fever, extreme pain, convulsions, paralysis, coma and ultimately, death.

However, scientists are working on cancer treatments using Chlorotoxin’s unusual properties, as it sticks to tumour cells and ignores nearby healthy cells.

The scorpion’s venom has been used in traditional medicines as a pain killer for thousands of years. And, Black Widows have the most concentrated poison of any spider; a bite injects 1/25th of a teaspoon of poison into the victim. The venom contains Latrotoxin, a protein which attacks the nervous system and the hormones which regulate body functions. Scientists suggest a building block of proteins found in the venom may help treat Alzheimer’s.

Health Updates

An Itch During Pregnancy Could be Obstetric Cholestasis

OC is said to cause itching so severe that women scratch until they bleed or even have suicidal thoughts. It usually occurs around 28 weeks into pregnancy, although symptoms (which include pale stools, dark urine and, uncommonly, jaundice) can appear at any time. OC disappears about a week or so after giving birth. OC during pregnancy affects the liver’s ability to regulate bile acids (which aid digestion), causing a build up in the bloodstream. This increases the risk of foetal distress, premature birth and stillbirth.

There is no effective way of treating OC, and women with the condition may be induced early to ensure the baby’s safety. The doctor’s advice for pregnant women, who have even the mildest itch, is to ask for a blood test.

Sleeping More than Nine Hours May Help Weight Loss

Being lazy can help weight loss! A study, involving 1,088 pairs of twins, has found that sleeping for less than seven hours a night was linked to higher bodyweights and a greater susceptibility to genetic factors that influence weight. However, the opposite was true in people who slept for nine hours or more. The genes affect how the body uses energy, how fat is stored, the feeling of being full after a meal and how quickly sugar is used up. Shorter sleep may provide a more permissible environment for the expression of obesity-related genes or extended sleep may help in suppressing the expression of obesity genes. The results showed weight loss measures are most effective when the genetic influences on obesity were mitigated through sleep extension.

66 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Health ‘Birth Defect Link’ to IVF Injections

Children conceived through IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) are likely to suffer birth defects, a study suggests. Research on more than 300,000 babies found those born following a fertility treatment used when men have low sperm counts, had a higher risk of abnormalities than those conceived naturally. Babies born as a result of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) — where a sperm is injected into the egg, were more likely to suffer abnormalities.

Researchers are unable to determine if the technique itself increased the risks of abnormality or because men suffering from sperm damage were more likely to pass on anomalies. The research, led by the University of Adelaide, examined 309,000 births in South Australia, of which, 1,878 involved ICSI. The study found the risk of birth defects was 5.8 per cent following natural conception, compared with 7.2 per cent following conventional IVF, and 9.9 per cent after ICSI.

Jogging Adds Years to Life

Regular jogging increases life expectancy for men by six years and women by five years, cardiologists have found. The study, started in 1976, followed the cardiovascular health of around 20,000 people aged 20 to 93.

The jogging sub-study looked at 1,116 male joggers and 762 female joggers and compared their life spans to nonjoggers. Joggers were asked to assess whether they ran at a slow, average, or fast pace. Men, who spent between 60 minutes to two hours a week at a “slow or average” pace, lived 6.2 years longer than non-exercisers, while female joggers derived 5.6 extra years.

Gentle jogging appeared to be better in terms of adding years to one’s life, than cranking up the pace. The aim is to feel a little breathless, but not to run out of breath.

Eat Fish Twice a Week to Protect the Heart

People should eat two portions of fish a week to prevent heart disease, leading European experts have said. It is presumed that the heart health benefits of fish come from fish oils, Omega 3, but this hasn’t been proven. One of the two portions consumed a week should be oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardine or trout, as these contain the highest levels of Omega 3 fatty acids. The recommendation for people who don’t like fish is that supplements should have 1g of Omega 3. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for brain or immune health. Eating fish is considered better than fish oil supplements as it contains nutrients such as Vitamin D, Selenium and Iodine, which help fight cardiovascular disease.

Exercise and Computer Games Reduce Memory Problems

Babies Born Late More Likely to have Behavioural Problems

Overdue babies are twice as likely to suffer from ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), a study has found. A study of 5,000 babies born between 2002 and 2006 found those who were born at 42 weeks gestation or more were at higher risk of significant behaviour problems and were twice as likely to have ADHD at age three.

Women are advised to have labour induced at 42 weeks because it is known that the placenta begins to fail which increases the risk of stillbirth. However, researchers stated that behavioural problems may be caused due to other factors such as placental problems, mother’s health etc.

Using a computer and exercising regularly can reduce the risk of memory problems by up to 75 per cent, a study has found.

Researchers found elderly people who took part in moderate exercise and used a computer were less likely to suffer memory problems. The study involved 926 people aged between 70 and 93 who completed questionnaires about their lifestyle over the previous year. Participants who did not exercise or use a computer were 20.1 per cent cognitively normal and 37.6 per cent showed signs of MCI (mild cognitive impairment). Participants who exercised and used a computer were 36 per cent cognitively normal and 18.3 per cent showed signs of MCI. Research suggests keeping our bodies and brains active in later life could have combined benefits in helping to stave off cognitive decline.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 67

13

Ways1

Health

To Fast The Healthy Way

While Ramadan is primarily a ve

ry spiritual occasion, many people tend to either see it as a great time to lose weight or go all out and indulge. And so it is ... within reason. This is a time you must be extra cautious and take care of yourself properly.

Slow Down!

2

We know you’re hungry, but quickly scoffing down that food is going to put a lot of strain on your digestive tract.

Take small bites and chew well as the longer we munch, the less work our digestive system has to do and the more nourishment we absorb. This all prevents indigestion, bloating and feeling downright stuffed. It is also a very good idea to wait at least an hour after your meal to indulge in sweet foods.

68 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Hydration is Imperative

Our bodies are mostly made of water and we need a whopping half our body weight each day just to maintain normal bodily function!

So whatever you do, do not skimp on the H²O just because you’re fasting. Headaches, fatigue, confusion, dizziness and irritability are caused by dehydration so if you’re suffering from any of these symptoms make sure you drink water pronto.

Broaden your Palate

We all have our favourites but it’s never a good idea to stick to just a few foods. We all need a varied diet, particularly during the Holy Month. Our bodies actually need 40 different nutrients everyday to ensure we function properly, which of course are not available in just a few foods. Eat your grains, cereals and breads, meat, fish, dairy, good oils, nuts and seeds, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

3

4 Break Fast with Soup

Not only is it easy to make far in advance, but soup is also very nourishing and easily absorbed by our bodies. Let’s not forget it’s also a great way to make sure you up the water intake. Create plenty of nutrient-rich soups throughout the month; they’re the best way to break your fast.

Skimp on Sugar

5

As tempted as you may be after a full day of fasting to reach for the treats, remember sugar robs our bodies of vital minerals and vitamins which we surely want to hold onto at a time where intake is low anyway.

This doesn’t just include sweets, cakes and chocolate but also white rice and white bread act the same way in our bodies as sugar. Turn to juicy fruits, whole wheat and brown options instead.

Health Work It!

Just because you’re eating less doesn’t give you an excuse to exercise less! It is important for circulation to maintain healthy activity levels. The best and least strenuous way to do this is by taking an evening walk after Iftar.

Don’t Forget to Zzzz

We all love to stay up late at ghabgas but it is important to get enough beauty sleep.

You’ll know if you’ve been skimping on the sleep too much when you start feeling nervous, getting bad headaches and digestive problems. If you haven’t got enough hours at night then take a well deserved afternoon nap.

7

6

Think Supplement

This is a good habit to get into anyway, but during Ramadan it is vital that you take supplements to make up for the vitamins and minerals your diet is going to be lacking.

Pay particular attention to B-complex vitamins which are known to help our bodies deal with stress, and take zinc, selenium and vitamins E, A and C which are all known as anti-oxidants and allow our bodies to repair themselves, remove waste and keep us looking youthful. Natural sources of B vitamins are whole grains, while plenty of fruits and vegetables should keep the other vitamins in good stock.

8

Don’t Skip Suhoor

9

Speaking of sleep, don’t get too attached because breakfast is the most important meal of the day so don’t skip Suhoor!

Breakfast keeps our hunger symptoms at bay throughout the day and also gets our metabolic rates kick started, so do not underestimate the significance of this meal. Make it light and slow digesting such as pitta bread, salad, cereal or wholegrain toast. Vitamin C helps us absorb nutrients, so make sure you have some fruit or juice too. If the thought of eating at this time is unthinkable to you then at least prepare a smoothie which you can quickly slurp down before getting some more shut-eye.

11

Cook It Right

Feast tables are usually laden with unhealthy, oily options (and we don’t mean the good oils). So make sure you prepare your food with love and care. Don’t fry, definitely don’t deep fry, keep oil portions down to a minimum and use good oils such as cold-pressed seed and olive oils. To cook, shallow fry or steam fry, grill, bake and roast instead. It’s just as tasty and a million times healthier!

10

Remember the Risks

While fasting certainly has its benefits, don’t forget the risks involved. Be careful and take heed of our advice. For instance, fasting reduces the amount of stomach acid you have, which is imperative to digest food and kill bacteria but thoughts and the smell of food can result in your stomach producing more acid which causes heartburn. Constipation can also prove to be an issue. You can combat this by staying active, including lots of fruit and veg, and increasing the fibre content of your diet. Don’t allow yourself to gain weight by eating too much either; don’t get us started on what obesity can do to your health.

Keep Your Cool

13

This huge change in routine and lack of food and water, particularly during Bahrain’s hot summer will cause a certain amount of stress.

You must deal with any other potential sources of stress and do not strain yourself. For instance don’t play sports in the hot sun and master anger management.

Quit Smoking!

12

You know it’s the best time to do it.

While you’re still smoking there’s no way you’re going to stay healthy for long even if you take all of our advice so take the plunge and kick the habit now. You know you’re never going to regret it, but you will if you don’t.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 69

Opinion

Removing Resentment

Kelly Armatage, our resident Counsellor, Life Coach and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist talks about how to deal with negative emotions like resentment.

I

rritation, frustration, resentment and finally anger; the ascending scale of the emotions of hate.

When situations/others do not go the way we want them to, it is easy for our emotions to descend into the negative.

Yet, if we were to understand how catastrophic the effect of thinking and even worse, holding onto resentment is, we would ensure we made a greater effort to remove it completely.

The universe is full of different people, who hold contrary beliefs, values and thinking patterns. No two people hold the same mind, no two people hold the same opinions, no two people hold the same thinking patterns.

Every person is a product of their own upbringings, belief systems and thoughts acquired from their own journey and experiences of their past.

When non-acceptance occurs towards another or an unwanted situation, resentment rears its ugly head.

Resentment; the emotion whereby one feels injustice because of a real or imagined ‘wrong’. If one were to evaluate the feeling of resentment, it is a deep emotion that pervades the very core of our beings and has very debilitating results. When one feels resentment, there is no room for acceptance, no room for love, no room for peace. Our minds focus obsessively on the injustice that has ‘come about’. Holding onto resentment can cause blockages within the mind, body and soul.

Stress can rise, illness can occur and one’s whole life experience becomes just painful.

When resentment arises it is a defence mechanism and barrier towards the person/ situation who has ‘caused’ it. Yet erecting that barrier does nothing but deepen the negative that is occurring. The situation or person does not change, in fact emitting resentment outwards can just reinforce the situation or person’s actions. Keeping resentment actually blocks people/situations from altering and prevents any good from

coming into the person’s life. Resentment feelings are dangerous to the person’s psychological wellbeing and need to be released, if an improved emotional existence is to be attained.

Ways to release resentment:  Understand others. If we were to have been born with their brain molecules, lived their childhood, experienced their every waking hour, owned their thinking patterns,

susceptible to emotional pain than others.

Learning to have a higher nurturing of positive versus negative emotions ensures one is more a victor than a victim.  Journal how often resentment is occurring in our lives. If this is very regular, then therapy is recommended to release old wounds and hurts, thus ensuring a clean slate to move forward.  Practicing exercises of forgiveness for perceived wrongdoings of the past via meditation, prayer, letter and journaling.

“Resentment is a deep emotion that pervades the very core of our beings and has very debilitating results.”

70 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

felt their emotions and developed their values, then we too would be doing as they do.  Understand that due to our own ‘negative’ belief systems and thinking patterns; we can create a negative outcome. We can set ourselves up for pain, whereby resentment naturally occurs. Yet who is the creator of such pain? It is worthwhile to question one’s own thinking patterns, values and beliefs next time, resentment is being felt and to whether these can be turned around into healthier, functional and more empowering views.  Learn to work on our sensitivity thresholds and increasing the strength in them. Some people are ultra sensitive and are more

Kelly Armatage

If there is one thing that should be taken from this article, it is this; resentment hurts the one who is resenting, no-one else! Resentment eats up your precious life through morbid, unforgiving and hateful thoughts. Resentment most definitely ensures negative outcomes occur continually, whilst that emotion exists. A person who resents does not have a happy life, does not experience the fulfilling emotion of true, unconditional love and does not have inner or outer respect.

Freeing up resentment ensures a heavy burden is lifted from your heart, mind and soul. Removing resentment erases the victim mentality from your existence and ensures you regain your power. To whom or what do you have the courage to remove your resentment towards today?

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

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Travel

The Great

Banyan Tree Al Wadi

Eid Escape We are all now on a mission to escape the slow Bahraini summer but with so many options at our feet where is a great place to go? Well, we’ve come up with six very intriguing ideas for you! Aren’t we lovely?

Somewhere in the

Desert

Destination? Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Which Hotel? Amid stretches of desert sand in tranquil Wadi Khadeja lies the exclusive resort of Banyan Tree Al Wadi. This is the first desert resort in the UAE to offer an all-pool villa concept, complete with 3,960 square-metres of Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa facilities, a dedicated nature reserve, a private beach club and an 18-hole championship golf course. Moreover, it is home to local desert wildlife such as gazelles, camels and oryxes, allowing you to intimately interact with nature.

72 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Why? Banyan Tree Al Wadi is truly a blissful hideaway to indulge and nourish your mind, body and spirit. And they’re offering a ‘Weekend Special’ two-night package (Thursdays to Saturdays). This includes a complimentary daily breakfast for two at one of two dining options, one hour of complimentary use of the Hydrotherapy Spa (Rainforest Experience) for two adults, as well as BD40 credit per villa per stay. Other inclusions include a personal chilled pool and free access to the Banyan Tree Al Wadi Kids Club.

The Deal? The Weekend Special rates for each style villa are as follows: Al Rimal, BD222.5; Al Khaimah, BD312.5; Al Sahari, BD358. This offer is valid until 30th September.

For more information contact Tel. +971 8000 6505 86.

Travel

Somewhere for Travellers Destination? Eight countries of your choice Which Hotel? Sofitels around the world!

Why? Sofitel has launched an innovative marketing operation in the form of an entertaining game: ‘Around the World with Sofitel: 80 Magnifique Nights.’ The dedicated website enables visitors to discover the brand’s 120 addresses in 40 different countries, thanks to the interactive world map. Everybody can fill out their own virtual travel diary to create their ideal world tour of eight Sofitel destinations. The entry form will be a postcard recounting the eight stopover points that are chosen.

The Deal? The prizes are 80 nights at Sofitel to be shared between the eight winners who will be selected in the draw, to be held on 18th July. The top prize winner will

get 31 nights in a double bedroom and two flights around the world, followed by seven other winners who will be able to stay for seven nights in one of the hotels they chose, with the person of their choice.

Visitors will also be able to increase their chances of winning by becoming fans of the Sofitel Facebook page, by sending their postcard of eight destinations to friends or by becoming a member of the AIClub loyalty program run by the Accor Group.

Sofitel in Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai

For more information visit www.sofitel80nights.com

Somewhere for Eco-friendly

Folk

Hotel Villa Rolandi Thalasso Spa, Gourmet and Beach Club

Destination?

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Which Hotel? Located in the middle of Isla Mujeres, overlooking the impressive Mexican Caribbean Sea and the breathtaking view of Cancun, is Hotel Villa Rolandi Thalasso Spa, Gourmet and Beach Club. The hotel lies between the beach with its white sand and the Lagoon Makax, where its private luxury yacht has its pier. The hotel features a total of 35 accommodations in three categories; Junior Suites, Master Suites and one Presidential Suite. Moreover, the hotel offers a unique thalassotherapy spa.

Why? It’s not so much what the hotel can offer but what is going on from 15th to 17th July in Isla Mujeres - the Fourth Annual Whale Shark Festival; a community extravaganza that showcases the achievements, traditions and the environmental splendour of Isla Mujeres. Last year thousands flocked to the family-friendly Whale Shark Festival, which offers guests an opportunity to participate in ecotourism adventures such as swimming with whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean and an endangered species; traditional dancing performed by local troupes; exploring ancient Mayan ruins and much more. Moreover, a portion of the festival proceeds will be donated to several environmental not-forprofit organisations.

The Deal? The rate between 25th April and 25th December per room in double occupancy is BD113. This includes accommodation, daily American breakfast, mini-bar service and yacht services on arrival and departure days.

For more information, visit www.villarolandi.com, www.whalesharkfest.com or www.cevichetours.com

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 73

Travel care of the details for all golf lovers with Tee Off for Golf offering Dusit Best Rate and one round of golf (18 holes) per stay, complimentary shuttle transfer to the golf course and drinks at the hotel’s 19th hole upon returning from the golf game.

The Deal? Price starts from BD23++ per night.

For more information contact Tel. +66 (0) 2200 9000.

Dusit Thani Bangkok Somewhere

Golfers for

Destination? Bangkok, Thailand

Which Hotel? Dusit Thani Bangkok has been famed as a social and business landmark for 40 years. Ideally located in the heart of Bangkok, it sits opposite Lumpini Park with its broad boulevards and expanse of lakes. The luxury hotel is adjacent to both the sky train and subway systems within easy proximity to major business, shopping and entertainment centres. Dusit Thani Bangkok’s 517 rooms and executive suites are appointed with distinctive Thai inspirations and well-designed facilities. Moreover, there is a choice of eight signature dining experiences, whilst the Devarana Spa, and DFiT offer state-of-the-art facilities.

Why? Dusit International has introduced the ‘Your Dusit Lifestyle - Your Summer Choices’ campaign with five offers including a ‘Tee Off For Golf’ deal available until 30th September. Dusit takes

74 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Somewhere

Relaxing

Destination? Abu Dhabi, UAE Which Hotel? The Yas Hotel is a breathtaking symbol of modernity at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s exciting Yas Marina Circuit. This masterpiece, with its vibrant colour-changing LED grid-shell, is the first hotel in the world to be built directly over a world class Formula 1 race track. Moreover, it is the only fivestar hotel on Yas Island and offers high class service

Travel

Dusit Thani Maldives

throughout its 499 stylish rooms and suites, twelve restaurants and lounges.

Why? The Yas Hotel has launched a new yoga retreat which offers daily sessions of hatha yoga on the hotel’s striking rooftop, with panoramic views of the marina and the infinite Abu Dhabi desert. Three hours of healing treatments at the exclusive Espa spa complement the yoga, further releasing tension and rejuvenating body and mind.

Female yogis can

The Yas Hotel Atayeb Terrace

Somewhere for Spa Lovers

Unwind At Devarana Spa - Dusit Thani Maldives

Encircled by white sandy beaches, a rich house reef and turquoise lagoon, the newly opened Dusit Thani Maldives has now unveiled its brand new, signature Devarana Spa. Located on Mudhdhoo Island and proffering authentic Thai treatments, the Devarana Spa at the Dusit Thani Maldives encompasses six deluxe treatment pods which sit elevated amongst the island’s palm trees … and for those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground; the spa has also developed two ground level treatment rooms.

Tel. +960 600 8888 or email: res.maldives@dusit.com

enjoy the ladies only hammam with its authentic Arabian rituals, while the exclusive Metronap pods in the male relaxation room provide an energy boost.

After a stimulating day of yoga, guests can dine in any of the hotel’s six restaurants.

The Deal? The Yoga Retreat costs from BD226 for two people sharing a deluxe room.

For more information visit www.theyashotel.com

The Dolder Grand Hotel Zurich

Somewhere for Party-goer

Enjoy the Zurich Street Parade!

The world’s most beautiful, colourful house and techno parade will be making its way around Zurich’s lakeside for the 21st time on Saturday, 11th August. Guests at The Dolder Grand Hotel can wind down after the Street Parade, soaking up the serene and relaxing atmosphere. With its elevated location, and magnificent views of Zurich city, the lake and the Alps, the Dolder Grand is the dream hotel destination in Zurich, featuring 173 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites. GCC travellers who wish to experience the Swiss spirit during these festivities can enjoy a complimentary fourth night with The Dolder Grand ‘4 for 3 Experience’ offering guests four nights for the cost of three.

Tel. +414 4456 6000 or email: reservations@thedoldergrand.com July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 75

Opinion

Promoting Sustainable And Green Construction

Eng. Rehan Ahmed

This month Rehan talks us through the environmental issues associated with construction and the benefits converting to green building practices …

C

onstruction involves the development of infrastructure, amenities, structures and buildings for all purposes. All construction activities require the harnessing and reworking of natural resources to provide usable structures and edifices.

Primary resources include cement, sand, aggregates, wood, water, metal and energy - though the list is exhaustive.

The construction industry, accounts for around 50 per cent of non-renewable resource use, making it one of the least sustainable industries in the world. Building and construction activities worldwide use more materials by weight than any other sector, consuming three billion tonnes of raw materials each year. This is equivalent to 40 per cent of total global usage, yet construction only contributes around ten per cent of global Gross Domestic Product (USD4.6 trillion).

It is not only through resource abstraction and its effects, seen in the loss and destruction of habitats and landscape damage, that construction has severe negative consequences for the environment. Further effects are apparent in the release of harmful pollutants into sensitive environments and waterways, which can have pervasive and often irreversible consequences. In fact, the construction industry is responsible for nearly a third of all industry-related pollution incidents.

Similarly the intense and often

excessive energy use associated with both the construction process and energy use in powering and maintaining constructed buildings is a serious issue. The intensity of energy consumption affects climate change in addition to furthering waste generation and depleting non-renewable energy resources such as fossil fuels.

The burden that construction places on the natural resource base has been heightened in recent years by a boom in construction as a result of population growth and increasing urbanisation rates which have resulted in the lateral and vertical expansion of towns and cities.

GREEN CONSTRUCTION The concept of sustainable construction and green development incorporates and integrates a variety of strategies during the design, construction and operation of building projects.

The use of green building materials and products represents one important strategy in the design of a building. It needs to be understood that sustainable construction techniques are more than ‘good practices’.

Green building materials are

environmentally responsible and environmental impacts are considered over the ‘life of the product’. These materials offer specific benefits like reduced maintenance or replacement costs over the life of the building, energy conservation and improved occupant health.

Using green building materials promotes the conservation of dwindling non-renewable resources. In addition, integrating green building materials into projects can help to reduce the environmental impacts associated with the extraction, transport, installation, and disposal of source materials.

We need to understand that our planet cannot support the current level of resource consumption associated with construction. We all have a leading role to play in adopting a more holistic approach and green thinking in construction. Green construction can only be achieved if there is awareness of the ‘green concept’, green procurement of all material, green planning, utilizing green construction techniques, green operation, management, maintenance, repairs and dismantling.

We need to change the way we consume building materials - using less imported materials by building more simply, with more local and plentiful materials and generating less waste. We must select materials that can be easily dismantled and reused or recycled at the end of their useful life. Moreover, we need to select materials after the establishment of project-specific environmental goals, accounting for resource efficiency, impact on air quality, water conservation and energy use. By considering our building material choices, we can easily increase the comfort, safety, and efficiency of our buildings without putting undue stress on our natural resources.

Most importantly, we need to understand that Legislations and Governmental authorities alone cannot solve this issue. It is the change of our behavior and approach which is required Rehan Ahmed is Head of Waste Disposal Unit, Directorate of Environmental Control, Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife, Bahrain. Email: rehan900@gmail.com

76 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Society

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

Seef Properties and The Muharraq Mall Company Signing Ceremony New project (Muharraq Seef Mall near Arad Fort) signing ceremony held in Fraser Suites on 3rd May.

Seef Properties General Manager Robert Addison, Adnan Al Bassam, Seef Properties Chairman Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Shaikh Ahmed bin Ali Al Khalifa, Hisham Al Jowdar and Ali Al Obaidly

Fashion and Jewellery Showcase

A Fashion and Jewellery Showcase was organised on 15th May at the Capital Club to exhibit the works of young and aspiring fashion and jewellery designers.

The models

Dana, Nouf and Khalida

Zilia

Silvana and Edel

Ade and Monique

Julia and Khatoon

Hani and Saliha

Charlotte and Samia

Lena and Antoinette

Shahanaz

Zaina and Juman

Leylan

Raisa and Anna

Alphonse

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 77

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

BJBFS Programme on ‘Our Hearts are with You Japan’

The Bahrain-Japan Business and Friendship Society (BJBFS), in association with Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammad Al Khalifa Cultural Centre, conducted ‘Our Hearts are with you Japan’ on 25th April at Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammad Al Khalifa Cultural Centre in Muharraq. The program was organised in remembrance of the devastating earthquake and tsunami which struck Japan in March 2011.

Anoop Kewalram, Anwar Khalaf, Rehan Ahmed, The wife of the Japanese Ambassador Tomoko Sumi, Ambassador of Japan HE Shigeki Sumi, Nasser Al Arayedh, Nancy Khedouri, Nabeel Al Ajoor, Nujood Al Mahmood, Yousif Lori and Jassim Al Shirawi

Ambassador of Japan to Bahrain HE Shigeki Sumi

Jassim Al Shirawi, Nabeel Ajoor, Rehan Ahmed, Nujood Al Mahmood, Nancy Khedouri and Nasser Al Arayedh

Eng. Rehan Ahmed

Nabeel Al Ajoor

Organisers with participants

‘A Shoe Story’ at Moda Mall

Opening of the Vintage Shoe Exhibition ‘A Shoe Story’ in Moda Mall on 23rd May.

Michael Atwell

Susan and Cristalyn Pastrana

HE Dr Fatima Al Balooshi during the ribbon cutting ceremony

Robin and Inna

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Julie

Saleh Isa

Maheen

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Taste of Fashion

‘Taste of Fashion’ was hosted by Bahrain City Centre and Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel on 26th June.

Kay

Polly and Maricon

Peggy, Kate and Lori

Rebecca and Hilary

Tanga

Nina, Angie, Kristen and Ellen

Ida, Margalida, Vanessa and Helen

Camille and Malcom

Lights, Camera Fashion’s ‘The Indus Valley Fashion Extravaganza’

An Indus valley fashion extravaganza was held on 24th May in the Awal Ballroom, Gulf Hotel, with the support of Pakistan Embassy.

Hamra and Susan

Belle and Ana Budda

Huma and Iqra

Adeel and Adnan

Nawal

Nomi Rajan

Noureen, Rose, Saila and Adriana

Clauss, Natasha, Nikhat, Susanne and Saman

Farah, Missbah and Zarghama Maoon and Hamra Alam

Amna and Reem

Yodit

Saqib, Zayaan, Ambreen and Roshaan

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 79

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Bahrain Summer Festival Press Conference, Ministry of Culture

The Ministry of Culture headed by Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa held a press conference on 28th May at Bahrain National Museum to launch the programme for the fourth annual Bahrain Summer Festival.

Hesa Hesham, Her Excellency Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa and other speakers during the press conference

Joseph Tito, Leila Dulay, Shafeeka and Rima

Samah and Hesa Hesham

Arnaud Humbert Photography Exhibition

Organised by the Alliance Française de Bahreïn, the exhibition was held in Centre Culturel Franco-Bahreïnien La Maison Jamsheer (Muharraq) on 25th May.

Arnaud Humbert with his work

Damiele, Roselyne, Josuane and Sophie

Arnaud Humbert’s work

Al-Madrasa for Art Fourth Annual Exhibition

Al-Madrasa for Art held its Fourth Annual Exhibition for their students on 16th and 17th April, at their school’s premises.

Nada and Sarah

The artists and guests

Um Ehabm, Ali, Muna, Mariam, Mala, Eman and Amir

Yasmin, Yousif and Mami

Noor and Dr El Shafei Abdul Majeed and Suhaila

80 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Sandra, Samy, Sylvia and Maha

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Heavendricks First Birthday

The Heavens Family celebrated Heavendrick’s first birthday party.

Manoj, Shanto, Heaven, Likhiya, Sreyas and Rose

Heavendrick

Heavendrine, Shanto, Heavendriya, Likhiya and Heavendrick

Heavens family and Shinto family

Arabian Magazines Bid Farewell to Karina Lazarraga Karina was an integral part of the Arabian Magazines team for four years and has now moved on from her post as Assistant Editor of Bahrain Confidential.

Noel, Redia, Raj, Nikesh, Karina, Nick, Arlene, Rose and Maliha

World Book Day

The British Council and HSBC Bank held a Kids Read event on 28th April at Al A’ali Mall, to celebrate World Book Day and motivate children in the community to read for fun.

Ali and Ahmed

Nayan and Sham

Waad and Shahad

Jood

Mahmood and Abdul Rahman

Noor, Zainab, Layal, Esra and Yasmin

Roshan and Roshni

Hasan Omar July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 81

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Exciting B-Boy Competition Held at Batelco Staff Centre

Batelco hosted the national B-Boy competition - Red Bull BC One Bahrain Cypher, at Batelco’s Staff Centre in Hamala on 11th May. The top 16 B-Boys in Bahrain battled it out to be selected as the National Champion, winning a spot to represent Bahrain at Egypt’s regional qualifier in September.

Batelco - Red Bull B-Boy Judges

Batelco - Red Bull B-Boy participants

Batelco - Red Bull B-Boy participant in action

Batelco Hearts and Minds Sports Day

Batelco Hearts and Minds Committee held a special sports day event for the autistic children of Al Wafa Center, at their premises in Sanad on 17th April. The event included sporting activites, gifts and breakfast for the children and parents.

Member of the committee handing out gifts

Batelco’s Hearts and Minds Committee

Jaguar Launch – The Diplomat Hotel

Jaguar launched their new XK Range in the Al Muharraq Ballroom of the Diplomat Hotel on 5th June.

David and Ian

Sami and Hamid

82 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Lin, Salam and Redia

Abdull Rahman, Jamal and Rashid

Jaguar

Mohammed Zainal and Bob Thaker

Francesco Agus and Kin

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Servcorp Business Shorts

Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy spoke on the topic of ‘Organisational and Executive Coaching Uncovered’ at the latest business networking event on 30th May in the West Tower of Bahrain Financial Harbour.

Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy (6th from left) with the participants

Alessandro Cernuschi and Tatiana Dimitrieva

Mahdi, Alessandro Cernuschi and Danni

Sharlene, William, Shoaib and Ravi

Harvesters Pajama Party at Crowne Plaza

Harvesters held a pajama themed night on the 31st May with bands, DJs, games and prizes.

Cindy, Cherrie, Fahad, Rachie, Christy, Alena, Brendon and Ann

Ibrahim Aldossary

Majors Band

Ann and Christy

Mohammed Kamran and Atiq

Team Harvesters

Tina, Ehab and Meann

Alena and Brendon

Christy, Rachie, Bob and Ann

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 83

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Bahraini-French Business Club (CAFB) Business Dinner

The Bahraini French Business club (CAFB) held a business dinner on 21st May in the Rifaa Ballroom of InterContinental Regency Hotel.

The Guest Speaker, Malcom Wrigley, CEO of Al Dur Power & Water Company spoke on the topic; “The role of private power and water companies in meeting future demands in the Kingdom of Bahrain�.

Abbas, Mina Lee and Jaber Al Taweel

Veronica, Roksy and Rim

Zied, Andy and Guilaume

Vickie, Noeleen, Mohamed Yateem and Joseph Alain and Sophie

Catherine and Laurence

Elspeth and Malcolm Wrigley

Guest Speaker Malcolm Wrigley

Rodolphe Melki Mr and Mrs Basel Aryan

Abdul Jaleel Al Ansari and Mohammed Sadiq Dawani

Sandra and Gemm

New Mercedes Benz SL Class

Al Haddad Motors launched the new Mercedes Benz SL Class on 26th June at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa.

Dr Hassan Fakro during the launch of the new Mercedes Benz SL Class

Mercedes Benz SL Class

84 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Dr Hassan Fakro and guests

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

American Mission Hospital Dinner and Talk

American Mission Hospital (AMH) sponsored Dr Ravi Zacharias to speak on ‘Is Peace Possible? The Ways of God and the Ways of Man’ in the Al Murjan Ballroom of the Mövenpick Hotel on 31st May.

Kimberly and Ravi

Reena, Dr Richa and Noemi

Stephen, Joel, Isaac, Vasanthi, Evon, Grecilda and Robin

Dr Mathew and family

Hilary, Neal, Sujeewa, Priyanthi, Ram, Christine and Ramona

Abdulaziz, Dr Richardson and Dr Babu

Ina and Stef

Reinet and Sophie

Hedi and Lizeliy

Tariq and Talal

Tanisha and Sanjay

Azadea Bahrain BBQ

Azadea Bahrain fired up the grill for a BBQ night on 29th May.

Ibrahim, Tolu, Fouad, Husain and Mounya Ranjith, Nishel, Tiby and Aneesh

Azadea group

Umrit and Shafiq

Shova, Fatima and Zainab Susan, Zahra, Banen and Jenny

Husain, Husain, Ahmed, Abdulla, Hani and Ali

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 85

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (APICORP) Symposium

Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (APICORP) held the APICORP 2012 Symposium on 30th May at the The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. The speakers explored the implications of emerging issues confronting the MENA oil and gas industry.

HESS Energy Trading Company Chief Economist Roberto Sieber

Middle East Economic Survey Consultant Dr Walid Khadduri

CEO Petroleum Policy Intelligence Bill Farren-Price

APICORP Senior Policy Consultant Ali Aissaoui

Fontana Tower Luxurious Residence Opens

The Fontana Tower opening ceremony was held on 26th May by Sakana Holistic Housing Solutions and The Developers WLL.

Fontana Towers in Juffair waterfront was officially opened by HE Shaikh Hisham Abdulrahman Al Khalifa in the presence of Abdulghaffar Al Kooheji, Anayat Jaberi Jamal, Abdrabalnabi Ahmed Almaa and guests

‘A Taste of Fashion’ Hosted by Kempinski and Bahrain City Centre (BCC)

Kempinski and Bahrain City Centre featured House of Amouage products at this month’s ‘A Taste of Fashion’ event and welcomed members of the Al Noor Charity Organisation.

Rawia Beyhum

Al Noor Charity organisation members with Amouge perfumes and Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel team

Nada, Fahima, Samia and Latifa

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Public Relations Manager Hilary Philpott

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Public Relations Assistant Maya Mueller

86 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Marie

Amouge Retail Manager Hossam, Sara, Maureen and Iwona

Maliha and Arlene

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

The K Hotel Awarding Night

The K Hotel held a staff party on 3rd June to honour its most outstanding staff and birthday celebrants for the months of April and May.

The K Hotel management and staff Arya, Ali, Gemma and Cynthia

Natasha Gibbons, Lani Girao, The K Hotel General Manager Edward Chaaya, Marketing and Communication Manager Ayla Ginete-De Leon with Florence

K Hotel birthday celebrators of the month

Harish, Ali and Ahmed

DreamBody Centre DreamBody Centre opened a new branch in Bahrain Mall last month.

DreamBody Centre team

A Night at the Oscars – Victoria Dance Studio

Victoria Dance Studio held their ‘A Night at the Oscars’ event on 1st and 2nd June in Bahrain Cultural Hall.

Aiden and Gaby

Victoria Dance Studio’s ‘A Night of Oscars’

Richard, Victoria and Daniel

Mike, Sorrell and Campbell Nadia and Summer

Dan, Gary, Suzi and Amanda

Anna and Fatima

Nartin and Molly

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 87

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

British School of Bahrain (BSB) Art Exhibition

The British School Bahrain held their 8th Annual Art Exhibition on Sunday 3rd June at the school campus in Hamala. The exhibition was opened by Shaikh Rashid Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa.

Priya, Shakti, Dominic and Wayne

Lamis and Balqis

Sherif, Jasper, Ella and Riidy

Makhlouf Family

Jacques, Mehnaz and Shanon

Hanan, Ahmed, Haya and Sarah

Nena and Zahra

Celia, Jessie and Josh

Rana and Candice

Clauss and Maha

Simran Lamba

Arfa and Jessica

Lebo and Mark

Zeina

Mila and Pascate

Dana and Renee

Jumana, Redha and Medo

The Bahraini-French Business Club (CAFB)

Club D’ Affaires Franco-Bahreinien (CAFB) also known as the Bahraini-French Business Club, hosted a Business Dinner on 18th June at the Golden Tulip. The guest speaker, was Mahmood H Al Kooheji, CEO of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Co.

Michel, Shaikh Daij bin Salman bin Daij Al Khalifa, Adel Fakhro, Mahmood Kooheji, Abdulla Juma, Abdul Nabi Al Shoala, Ahmed, Waleed and Philippe Calafat

Jaimin, Nils Ove Johansson, Ketan, Shaikh Daij bin Salman bin Daij Al Khalifa, Abdu Nabi Al Shoala, Ross Holden and Adel Fakhro

88 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Ali Yateem, Sadeq Dawani and Khalil Al Sharif

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Italian National Day

Italian National Day celebrations were organised by the Italian Ambassador to Bahrain, HE Enrico Padula in Sofitel on 2nd June.

Italian Ambassador to Bahrain HE Enrico Padula and wife Milena Padula

Michael, Demise and Joern

Anna, Hesham and John

Italian Ambassador to Bahrain HE Enrico Padula with the diplomats during the cake cutting ceremony

Waleed, Dr Mohamed Al Khozaei and Dr Mubarak Najeem

Gail, Ian, Lorrance and Nick

CDR Buccitti, CDRE Mukhtar and MCPO Ricchiuti

Paul, Raffaella, Manuela, Elisabetta and Alessandro

Nicola, Paous, Zape, Grazir, Maurice, Rosario, Brice and Daniel Francy and Michelin

Marco, Elizabeth, Francine and Shandra

Jessica, Nicola, Alberio and Enrico

Karina and Mala

Anita and Capt Anirudh

Ingrid, Anna and Liliane

Manuel and Luca

Vicky and Nabil

Hafida and Alberto

Faida, Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa and Rakya July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 89

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Volkswagon CC Launch

Volkswagon launched the new CC with a special breakfast in Wafi Gourmet, in Bahrain City Centre on 3rd June.

Team Behbehani

Peter and Hussain

Mohd and Hussain

Jehan and Redia

Felix

Go Negosyo: Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy Seminar

Philippines Embassy in cooperation with Fillipino Club held a business seminar for Filipinos entitled Go Negosyo, Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy. The theme was: Enterprising Spirit to Empower Fellow Filipinos. It was held on 8th June at Bahrain Society of Engineers, Juffair, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Armando “Butz” Bartolome, Steph Dy Tiapco, Michael Angelo Lobrin, Reuel Virtucio, Dean Francisco “Pax” Lapid, Mina Lee, Ambassador of the Philippines to Bahrain HE Ma Corazon Yap-Bahjin, Willy Carpio and Rosemarie Hernandez

Nokia Press Meet

Nokia’s Middle East Vice President, Tom Farrell, outlined Nokia’s global strategy to drive smartphone leadership through the Nokia with Windows Phone - Lumia range, which includes the award-winning Lumia 900, at Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain on 5th June.

Isa, Vithesh and Nokia’s Middle East Vice President Tom Farrell

Sundararaman, Tom and Vithesh

90 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Team NOKIA

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

BMW 6 Series Launch

BMW celebrated the arrival of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé on 4th June at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel and Spa.

Ali, Emad and Riyad

Amr, Eman and Perry

Nadeem, Monica and Hassan

Sana and Silvana

Euro Motors Managing Director Zayed Al Zayani

Rashid and BMW Showroom Manager Fady Kayrouz

Wala and Tamer

Saeed and Nahla

Hidel and Dr Philippe

Ahmed

Visak, Sumesh and Randa

Raymond and Robert

Dr Bashar and Tahani

Rehina, Kevin and Nabel

Mahmood, Hussain and Ali

Sabine Taufmann

Samsung Galaxy SIIII World Tour

Samsung had its Galaxy SIII World Tour 2012 Event at the Sheraton Hotel on 6th June.

Santosh, Asim, Mohan, AA Bin Hindi President and CEO Ahmed bin Hindi and Ashok

Mo’men Shawqi Ahmed and Khalid

Avinash and Jassim

Fatema

Ali, Ali, Ammar, Salama, General Manager of BHI A Aziz bin Hindi, AA Bin Hindi PR & Media Manager Mo’men Shawqi Ahmed and Raed

Moh’d Asif, Imtiaz and Abhishek

Fatima July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 91

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Bahrain Businesswomen Society Ceremony

The Bahrain Businesswomen Society had their ceremony on 13th June at the Al Taj Hall, Sheraton Hotel.

Hala, Afrah and Aziz

Jassim Eshaqi

Fatma and Khulood

Afnan, Khulood, Reem, Maysa, Batool and Huda

Afrah

Claoss Niazi and Maja Lok

Fawzia and Abdul Rehman

Noora and Samer

Hussain and Ammar

Dr Hachem and Khoulood

Vicky and Mona

Shokriya

Kawthar

Gèant Raffle Draw

Gèant handed over the keys of a Nissan Armada Car to Mohammed Abdullah - a Bahraini National who won the 2012 Gèant Anniversary Raffle. The draw took place on 12th June at Gèant in Bahrain Mall.

First prize - Nissan Armada

Mohammed Abdullah, Mohammed Khadem, YK Almoayyed Group Sales Manager Gurdeep Singh, Safi Faruqui and P Mohanty

SIXT Rent a Car Branch opening in Juffair

SIXT Rent a Car (Bin hindi Transport Co.) opened up their latest outlet at Juffair on 14th June.

A Aziz bin Hindi, Menane, Nawaf bin Hindi and Said Kamal

The management during the event

92 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Mo’men Shawqi

Lorvino and Karthik

Binoy and Santosh

Géant Nissan first prize winner Mohammed Abdullah

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

LPOD Water Volleyball Tournament

The Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD) Water Volleyball Tournament for companies opened on 16th June. Now in its fifth season, this year’s tournament brings together ten teams from eight different companies.

Gulf Daily News team

Bahrain National Holding team

Central Bank of Bahrain team

Hassan, Adnan, Soghra, Akhila and Princess

LPOD Asst Operations Manager Hani Sayed Salama

Al Watan team

LPOD PR and Marketing Manager Cristina Fulgencio

GĂŠant team celebrating a win

Opening of the Al Noor Tent, Elite Resort and Spa

Elite celebrated the launch of their Iftar Buffet in the Al Noor Tent on 11th June.

Saroosh, Safwan and Salim

Ronald and Ryan

Ema

Jassim, Avinash, Lalima and Faell Mary, Chris and Renjith Angelica, Vishwas and Rushali

Fatima, Khalifa and Rula

Najma and Hameeda

Sary, Khaled and Midhat

Hala, Nada and Jocelyne

Maya and Dalild Anne and Arlene July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 93

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Bahrain Family Leisure Company Honour Staff, at Bennigan’s

Bahrain Family Leisure Company extended its gratitude to all the staff who participated in the Food and Hospitality Expo 2012. The event was held at Bennigans’s where the Bennigan’s Bahrain team were also honoured for their incredible first four periods of 2012.

Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC) management and staff

Nelson, Cynthia, Paul Sarlas and Renjith

Sathyan and Paul

Daniel, Nigeshl, Paul and Mohammed

Paul and Joey

Don, Paul, Leny and Anselm

Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC) General Manager Paul Sarlas Bernadith Serna

Cynthia, Robert and Reynan

BFLC staff

BPG Gathering

BPG organized an informal Lunch gathering at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel and Spa on 12th June.

Member of the press with the management

Venkat, Idil, Rebecca and Ronald

Khaleda Al Rajab

Khaleda Al Rajab’s Haute Couture Boutique opened on 13th June, in the Diplomatic Area.

Khaleda Al Rajab

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Khaleda Al Rajab creations

Muna Yateem, Khaleda and Fatim

Noor

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Audi Q3 Launched

Audi Q3 was launched at the Galleria, Bahrain City Centre Mall on 20th June.

Angel and Laura

Latitia, Getan, Angel, Laura and Peter Green

Pepsi ‘Kick In The Mix’

Pepsi conducted its music-fuelled “Kick In The Mix” campaign with the Stars Engagement Booth at Bahrain City Centre - allowing enthusiastic fans to kick a few balls and score some goals.

Tallal Manel, Minesk and Mirsel

Pal, Alexandra, Aqsa and Milana

Pepsi Team

Launch of 2012 LG Cinema Screen

AJM Kooheji Group & LG Electronics unveiled the New 2012 LG Cinema Screen TVs on 19th June at Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts.

Linda, Kim, Rohit, James Park, Hameed Koheeji, Mahmood Koheeji, Kim, Sanjeev, Himavan and Natalia

Mahmood Koheeji, D Y Kim, Hameed Koheeji, James Park, Rohit Raina, James Kim and Sanjeev Avasti

Debjeet, Himavan and Sajith

Mohammed, Mohammed Ahmed, Sanjeev and Jamal Koheeji

Mahmood Koheeji, Rohit, D Y Kim, James Park, Hameed Koheeji, Mohammed Koheeji, Saleem Koheeji and Sanjeev

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 95

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

St Christophers School Art Exhibition

St Christophers held their Art Exhibition on 5th June at the school premesis.

Mohammed Al Shaikh

Jess and Jo Mannings

Aleena, Deepali, Sarah and Bhavna

Evie Henson, Ellie Pearce and Gabi Wilson

Katie and Palmyra

Ganny and Mandy

Mayam Al Khalifa

Neha and Latifa

Alia and Mariam

Leena, Shane, Mikhail, Noorulain and Anisa

Salma

Mehak Kampani

Eilidh Nicoll and Heba Bieber

Hilton Watson’s Birthday PartyÂ

Hilton Watson had a wonderful birthday party on 25th May, 2012 at the Bizarre Lounge in Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre.

Jodie, Demet, Sahar, Hilton, Joseph and May Hilary and Mier

Mo, Hilton and Anna

Angel, Hilton and Robert

Lucia and Mark

Natasha and Hilton

Sophie and Hilton Watson

Hugh, Jodie, Hilton, Robert and Le

96 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Society Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Mubarak Wins Black Tee Challenge!

Hamad Mubarak was crowned champion of the Black Tee Challenge at the Royal Golf Club on 8th June after achieving the lowest gross score of 75, beating fellow National Team Player Abdulla Al Hakam into second place after missing out by one shot with 76 gross.

Mubarak receives the Black Tee Challenge Trophy from Cormac Flannery of the Royal Golf Club

VIVA Junior Golf Series at Royal Golf Club

A total of 16 juniors, competing in three different age categories, took part in the VIVA Junior Saturday Series opener on 12th June at the Royal Golf Club.

Fahad Al Hakam took the honours in the under-21 category on count back with a three over par 30 gross despite taking nine shots on his opening hole. Khamis Abdulla won the under-16 category, also with 30 gross, while talented youngster Taimur Malik won the under-12 category with a score of 33 gross.

Week one under-12 winner Taimur Malik in action

Royal Golf Club Unveils Toro Fleet

The Royal Golf Club now has an entire new fleet of Toro golf course machinery. The fleet was purchased from Dubai-based Hydroturf International. “The Toro acquisition is a major step forward for us,” explained Paul Crowe, the Royal Golf Club’s Director of Golf Operations.

The Toro equipment lined up and ready to go at the Royal Golf Club

Majidi & Zamanly Win African & Eastern Series The pairing of Bijan Majidi and Murtuz Zamanly clinched the order of merit title on the final night of the African & Easter Monday Madness Night Golf Series at the Royal Golf Club despite only finishing in fourth place in the final competition. The extra points earned on the night meant they ended up with 13 points for the series, putting them five points clear of second place pairing Sajid Akram and Duaij Ahmed who finished the series with eight points.

Graeme Newport and Steve Wagstaff finished in third place, also on eight points.

Overall series winners Zamanly and Majidi with Nilantha of African & Eastern

Ladies Triumph in African & Eastern Competition

The pairing of Dena Wales and Samantha Jones produced some fantastic golf to fire a blistering score of 29 net. The duo produced a score line which included an eagle two on the 11th hole where Samantha holed out from 60 yards. Second place went to husband and wife duo Rob and Debbie Lane.

Winners Jones and Wales with Nilantha of African & Eastern

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 97

Business YK Almoayyed & Sons Group Appoints Group Chief Executive Officer

DHL Volunteers with the Reef Balls

DHL Bahrain Marks World Environment Day More than 45 employees from DHL volunteered to commemorate World Environment Day on 5th June 5th by building an artificial reef off the coast of Bahrain. The artificial reef will help support Bahrain’s natural reefs and sustain the ecosystem. DHL staff will have the opportunity to visit the reef once it has been constructed and deployed to see firsthand that they can make a difference not only today but for future generations. The Reef project is orchestrated by Reef Arabia who manufacture artificial Reef Balls in Bahrain, ranging in size from 20 kg to over 6 tonnes.

Business In Brief

YK Almoayyed & Sons (YKA), is pleased to announce the appointment of Declan McCluskey as the new Group Chief Executive Officer effective on the 1st May 2012. As CEO, McCluskey will now be overseeing the operations of all businesses of YKA comprised of Automotive, Building Materials, Industrial and Building Systems, Furnishing & Interior Design, Electronics & Home Appliances, and Heavy Equipment. This will also include the electronics distribution operation in UAE and outlets in Oman and Qatar. McCluskey, most recently, served as the General Manager of YKA Automotive Group. He brings to the group international experience, an outstanding track record in leading marketing and sales departments of major automotive brands, knowledge on strategic consulting and business planning, coaching of senior executives and knowledge transfer.

Declan McCluskey

Mövenpick, Jordan Receives Certificate of Excellence The Mövenpick Resort & Spa, Dead Sea; the Mövenpick Resort & Residences, Aqaba; and Mövenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay Aqaba, Jordan were recognised with the 2012 Certificate of Excellence Award by TripAdvisor. To earn the Certificate of Excellence, businesses must maintain an overall rating of four or higher, as reviewed by travellers on TripAdvisor.

Additional criteria include the volume of reviews received within the last 12 months.

“Growing Model Bahraini Retail Talent” signing agreement

Azadea Partners with TWI to Design a ‘Model Retailer’ Solution Azadea Group in Bahrain signed an agreement with Third Wave International (TWI) for the “Growing Model Bahraini Retail Talent” project on the 24th May. This provides 60 Bahrainis with an opportunity to build a career in retail. Upon the completion of the program the participants are expected to represent Model Retail Personnel.

98 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

2012 Certificate of Excellence Award

Business

Ngo Khai Hoan, Pradeep Kumar, Hassan Al Hashemi, Richard Jewsbury, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to UAE HE Tran Ngoc Thach, Thierry Antinori and United Arab Emirates Ambassador to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam HE Shaikh Ahmed Ali Hamad Al Mualla

Emirates Launches Ho Chi Minh City Daily Service Emirates, expanded its global network with the start of a non-stop, daily service between Dubai and Ho Chi Minh City in the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. This is the airline’s eighth route launch of 2012 and puts the popular tourist destination on the airline’s six continent wide network.

The inaugural flight, which had passengers onboard from 16 countries spread across Asia, Europe, the USA and the Middle East, was operated

by Captain Hamad Al Mazrooei, from the UAE along with First Officer Tran Holm, who was born in Da Nang, Vietnam.

Sakana Provides Finance for Kazerooni Villas

Managing Director of Kazerooni Contracting WLL Hussain Kazerooni and Sakana CEO R Lakshmanan

Sakana Holistic Housing Solutions, the innovative Islamic mortgage finance provider, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ARK Holding to provide home financing for luxury Kazerooni Villas located in Saar. The project comprising of ten villas each with built up area of approx. 550m² is developed and promoted

by Kazerooni Contracting WLL and offered for sale to Bahrainis and other GCC nationals at BD285,000 and above. The villas are being offered with first of its kind buy back guarantee to repurchase at the end of five years. Sakana will be offering customers finance up to 90 per cent property value subject to maximum BD350,000 and repayment term up to 30 years.

GIB Chairman HE Jammaz Al-Suhaimai

GIB Establishes MYR3.5 Billion Sukuk Al-Wakalah MTN Programme

Al Mehmeed (BAS), Al Musalam (Gulf Air), Carswell (Safi Air) and Mohamed Khalil (BAC)

Bahrain International Airport Welcomes Inaugural Flight from Afghanistan’s Safi Airways Bahrain Airport Company welcomed the inaugural flight from Safi Airways, Afghanistan’s international airline, on 24th June 2012 to the Kingdom. The new milestone in Safi Airways’ young, but progressively growing operations was witnessed by top officials of Bahrain Airport Company, Gulf Air and Safi Airways. The first commercial flight between Afghanistan and Bahrain, using an Airbus A320 with a two-class configuration, is expected to increase commercial ties between the two countries. This heralds improving Afghan business climate and increased commercial ties with the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Gulf International Bank (GIB) has successfully established a MYR3.5 billion Sukuk Al-Wakalah Medium-Term Note (MTN) programme in Malaysia.

The Islamic MTN programme is based on the Shariah principle of Wakalah.

CIMB Investment Bank Berhad and Standard Chartered Saadiq Berhad are the joint lead arrangers, while GIB Capital LLC, GIB’s investment banking arm, is the international coordinator of the Sukuk programme. Malaysiabased RAM Ratings has assigned an indicative rating of AA1 to GIB’s Sukuk Programme, which will be conducted through a special purpose company, Gulf Sukuk I Company BSC.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 99

Business

Bank’s Managing Director and CEO Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat with Kuwait Finance House staff

Day Out With KFHB CEO Continues To Prove Successful 15 randomly selected staff from Kuwait Finance House – Bahrain (KFH-Bahrain) were given the opportunity to spend a full day out of the office with Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat, the Bank’s Managing Director and CEO. They shared lunch together and talked openly about various topics relating to the bank in a friendly and relaxing environment. During this session, topics included future business plans for retail banking, KFHB initiatives in corporate social responsibility, smart and easy arrangements to rectify the flooded branches after launching “Libshara”. Other topics also discussed included career plans and career development of the employees, the social activities in the Bank and the enhancement of internal communication between the departments and the employees.

Zain Bahrain Nurtures SMEs With Entrepreneurs’ Forum Support Zain Bahrain was one of the key sponsors of the first GCC Future Entrepreneurs Forum held recently under the patronage of HRH the Prime Minister of Bahrain, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. The twoday forum was organised by Bahrain Development Bank and supported by the Ministry of Finance. The telecoms company rewarded media members for their support of the Kingdom’s entrepreneurs and of the Forum and gave away state-of-the-art handsets to media members at the event.

Minister of Finance Shaikh Ahmad bin Mohammad

Ahli United Bank and Network International Announce Strategic Alliance Ahli United Bank (AUB) and Network International (NI), one of the leading payment solutions providers in the Middle East, have announced the signing of an agreement to launch state of the art POS acquiring services and e-commerce in Bahrain. The agreement was signed by Abdulla Al Raeesi, Deputy Group CEO – Retail Banking, Ahli United Bank and Ram Chari, Chief Executive Officer of Network International, at a ceremony held at the Bank’s headquarters in Seef, Bahrain.

Bahrain Property Development Association (BaPDA) first property development exhibition

BaPDEX 2012 Sees Huge Success With great success, Bahrain Property Development Association (BaPDA) ended with its first property development exhibition BaPDEX 2012, the first exhibition of its kind in Bahrain dedicated to Bahraini Developers and Bahraini projects. It was held at the Seef Mall from 24th to 30th May under the patronage of HE Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain. Exhibitors expressed satisfaction with the outcomes and desires to have such an exhibition on a half yearly basis after the great feedback they got from customers and high percentage of sales they have sealed during BaPDEX 2012.

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Ahli United Bank Retail Banking Deputy Group CEO Abdulla Al Raeesi and Network International Chief Executive Officer Ram Chari

Business Three Accolades for Silah at Contact Centre Industry Event Silah Gulf (Silah), has won the award for Best New Outsource Service Provider at the Annual Middle East Call Centre Awards (MECC ‘12) in Dubai for the second consecutive year. Silah also took home the prize for Best Technology Platform and Best Reporting.

Launched in September 2010, Silah is a joint venture between Bahrain’s eGovernment Authority and UK-based Merchants. Working for private and public sector clients, Silah currently operates the National Contact Centre for the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Peugeot

May Madness Returns at Zayani Motors Zayani Motors May Madness promotion returned this year with exciting offers on a range of Peugeot. Customers were invited to take advantage of ZM’s special promotional offers and discounts on Peugeot models including 207cc, 308, 3008 and 5008. Zayani Motors offers the convenience of 24 hours approved car financing options that provide an easy payment structure of seven years with a deferred payment of 60 days for ease in payment. Buyers can also avail the free five year unlimited mileage warranty - transferable with vehicle ownership at no extra cost.

General Manager Mike Palmer, IT Manager Joanna O’Flynn, General Manager Nada Al Gassab, CEO Joe Tawfik, and Accounts and Projects Director at Silah, Abdulrahman Benshams

BBK Contributes Over BD61,000 to the Bahraini Community

Samer Majali explained to HH Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa the different types of safety gear, equipment, technological procedures and programs utilized by Gulf Air in different scenarios

BBK’s Chief Executive Abdulkarim Bucheery, welcomed at the Bank’s Headquarters, representatives from different societies to receive BBK’s contributions for their requests submitted in May 2012. The handover ceremony was attended from BBK side by Reyadh Sater - General Manager - Shared Services Group, Rafa Kaddoura - Corporate Communication Manager and Abeer Swar - Corporate Communications Officer. The beneficiaries included Bahrain Society for Children with Behavior and Communication Difficulties, Bahrain Down Syndrome Society, Um Al Hassam for Parents Care, UCO Parents Care Centre, Public commission for the protection of marine resources, environment and wildlife, Al Rahma Centre for Youth Care and Bahrain Mobility International.

Gulf Air Sponsors the First National Occupational Health and Safety Conference Gulf Air sponsored the First National Occupational Safety & Health Conference, from the 22nd to the 24th May at the Gulf Hotel.

The theme was “Creating Safety Culture for Decent and Safe Work.” The Conference, which was sponsored by the Ministry of Labor and held under the patronage of Deputy Prime Minister HH Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa, highlighted the necessity of enhancing the standards of occupational safety and health performance on a national level.

Handover ceremony

KFH-Bahrain Hosts Dr Abdul Sattar Abu Ghuddah for his Contribution to Islamic Banking In recognition of his lifelong contributions to the Islamic banking industry, Kuwait Finance House, hosted a dinner at the KFH Club in honour of Dr Abdul Sattar Abu Ghuddah, the prominent Islamic scholar. Dr Abdul Sattar Abu Ghuddah has contributed to helping the development of the Islamic banking industry and has raised awareness about its positive impact of individuals and economies at large.

Shari’a Scholars Dinner

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 101

Cars

Porsche Boxster

Last month, Porsche revealed a new generation of the Boxster. Nick Cooksey took up the challenge to put the car through its paces, and where better than in Germany, its home base.

“The Porsche Boxster has undergone a complete revamp to evolve into a more technically sophisticated (and in my humble eyes, a more beautiful) car.”

T

he original Boxster was introduced by Porsche in 1996.

A cult classic, the open-top, two-seater mid-engined sports car has sold in excess of 240,000 units, and now, as per Porsche philosophy it has undergone a complete revamp to evolve into a more technically sophisticated (and in my humble eyes, even more beautiful) car.

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I had the pleasure of trying out the Boxter on an early summer’s day along the German autobahns (German for ‘motorway’). Once famous for their lack of speed limits, the autobahns are now mostly speed regulated as a result of busy body killjoy campaigners. (These ‘dogooders’ couldn’t close them down the free speeding autobahns on safety grounds as there were actually less accidents per square kilometer on unrestricted autobahns than in countries that had speed limits on their motorways, so they closed them

Cars down on spurious ‘environmental’ grounds).

In the past, this speed freedom had evoked a fantastic lane courtesy in the region, with the fast lane left free for the truly fast. Many credit this unique road tradition with the development of the auto industry in the region by creating a local market for high performance cars which evolved to cater for international demand.

Where I was still able to legally push the boundaries of speed, I did, and reached top speeds of 210kph. This was fast (for me), and let’s be honest, more speed than anybody could ever need, yet I did not even brush the cars top performance of 277kph, which is almost unimaginable for a road car. The weight ratio felt perfect, and it had outstanding agility, which can only be put down to Porsche’s superb engineering capabilities.

The Boxster brings with it just too many new design features to mention in one article.

“It is not only beautiful, but genuinely designed for everyday usability.”

In this latest incantation, the wheel base is 60mm longer than in previous models and it has a wider track. The headlights are wider and lower than in previous models, which gives it that ‘super car’ look, especially at night. I was also struck by the brake line across the rear of the vehicle which aligns perfectly with the LED light system.

New electromechanical steering, a concept taken from the 911 has been integrated into the driving technology. This significantly tames the power from the engine through to your hands, resulting in superior comfort and an all round more enjoyable drive. It is not only beautiful, but genuinely designed for everyday usability.

Despite having a faster top speed and acceleration than its predecessor - the 2.7 litre engine is matched by 265 brake horsepower, which is only 10 brake horsepower greater than before. This may not seem huge, but the car is so well designed, and light, that this is all you need.

It also has the added benefit of a 15 per cent reduction in fuel consumption.

In fact, it is statistics like this that fascinate me most. With the plethora of advancements and additional features, you would expect this car to be heavier and less fuel efficient, yet Porsche have managed to improve every aspect of this car, with no apparent tradeoffs.

The new Porsche Boxster is a truly beautiful and fantastically engineered sports car. In many ways it could be described as ‘perfect’. That’s why I find it sad that for many people it will always live in the shadow of the 911. It doesn’t deserve to be in any other car’s shadow – it deserves to be iconic in

its own right. Truth be told, more people will enjoy driving this perfectly engineered midengine sports car than they ever would the much heavier 911!

For more information, visit www.porsche.com/middle-east/_bahrain_/ Tel. +973 1745 9911 or email: morgan@behbehani.com.bh

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Cars

Ahmed Zayani & Sons

Ramadan Offers

Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Models

For the Holy Month of Ramadan, Ahmed Zayani & Sons has lined up a wide range of stylish and high-quality models that combine total functionality with highly competitive whole-life ownership costs.

Chrysler

Highlights of the Ahmed Zayani & Sons 2012 range include the all-new Chrysler 300C, which in addition to 6.4-litre HEMI SRT8 and 5.7-litre HEMIV8 powered models (both of which feature Chrysler’s innovative fourcylinder mode MDS Fuel Saver Technology), is also available with the industry acclaimed ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox mated to the award-winning 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine.

The 300C, which has proved an immediate success, will be joined later this year by the all-new Chrysler 200 Sedan, which will be available with a choice of 2.4-litre and 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engines and delivers exceptional value without compromise.

Dodge

The Dodge line-up is part of a Dodge product portfolio focused on performance and value. The Dodge Charger SE and SXT models feature the lightweight, 292 horsepower 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine linked to a ZF 8-speed transmission for great performance and enhanced fuel efficiency. With the legendary 5.7-litre MDS HEMI V8 engine under the hood, the 2012 Charger R/T delivers 370hp, while the ultimate Charger, the SRT8, features the 6.4-litre HEMI SRT8 that unleashes 470hp.

For more information visit the Ahmed Zayani & Sons, Zinj Showroom on Sh. Salman Highway, www.ahmedzayani.com, Tel. +973 17 23 8822, email: azco@ahmedzayani.com

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The Dodge Challenger range now offers three engine options - the 470hp SRT8 392 which accelerates from 0-100 kmph in the high 4-second range, plus 5.7-litre HEMI V8 and the new 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 options.

The all-new Dodge Durango also continues to go from strength to strength, winning numerous awards and comparison test victories from many well-respected evaluation groups, such as MotorWeek and the American Automobile Association (AAA).

Jeep

Jeep’s remarkable history is further enhanced by the most powerful, technologically advanced, high-performance Jeep vehicle ever - the all-new 6.4-litre HEMI SRT8 powered Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. It offers Bahraini drivers a combination of Jeep’s legendary capability and utility merged with advanced performance engineering. The Grand Cherokee is the most awarded SUV in automotive history, and features alongside the Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited, Cherokee, Compass and Patriot. The latest revisions in the 2012 line-up include the introduction of the award-winning 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine and a new 5-speed automatic gearbox in the Wrangler.

Ram

Ram, has re-emerged as a stand-alone brand and continues to build its market presence. Since its introduction, the Ram 1500 has been a real game changer in terms of its ability to outsmart and out-tough the competition with its bold exterior design, crafted and refined interior, engineering excellence, superb innovation and best-inclass features, amenities and ride quality.

It is powered by the legendary 5.7-litre HEMI V8 which produces 390hp and 407 lb-ft of torque which is delivered through a new six-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS) and on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer case. Available variants include Regular Cab, Quad Cab and Crew Cab models, with three box lengths.

Two trim levels are available, each with a unique appearance: ST and the top-of-theline Laramie

Cars The all new Range Rover Sport 2012 and the Sport Supercharged showcase the athletic side of the range …

Range Rover Sport 2012

T

he Range Rover Sport fits between the Land Rover LR4 and the flagship Range Rover in the Land Rover lineup, bridging the gap from a price standpoint. The Sport is the shortest of the three, both in overall length and in height, and it’s built on a shorter wheelbase.

On the outside, the Range Rover Sport adds an athletic feel to the Land Rover range.

A sculpted exterior gives it a distinctive presence, from the eye-catching clamshell bonnet to the stylish rear spoiler. The 2012 version is lower-to-the-road with bolder front bumpers, a new grille and side vents. The ‘concentric circle’ headlamps and distinctive rear light clusters all feature LED technology.

The internal features, designed with comfort and refinement in mind, fully complement the external changes. The cockpit interior perfectly balances sporting style and modern luxury, and offers a wide range of interior finishes. Every control is placed within easy reach of the driver and specially designed sports seats enhance the cockpit feel, ensuring maximum driving involvement and comfort. The ergonomically designed center console and controls place the emphasis on the driving experience, while the interior mood lighting brilliantly enhances

“The highly rigid body, with its low center of gravity and energy-absorbing crumple zones, offers impressive levels of safety and occupant protection.” the experience of night-time driving.

When driving, the sophisticated, fully adaptable six-speed transmission with ‘CommandShift’ responds to driving style and driving conditions by reconfiguring shift patterns, as appropriate, for optimum driveability. This means you’ll enjoy a better response, smoother and more efficient gear changes.

The Range Rover Sport is reassuringly advanced in terms of safety. The highly rigid body, with its low center of gravity and energy-absorbing crumple zones, offers impressive levels of safety and occupant protection. The Range Rover Sport also features Land Rover’s legendary command driving position, which offers a clear view of the surrounding environment and helps put the driver in complete control. For added peace of mind there is a total of six airbags, including side curtains.

headlamps and tail-lamp back plates, metalliceffect fender vent fingers, chrome tailpipes, and body-colored door handles. The car also sports 20 inch nine-spoke Sparkle Finish alloy wheels with new ‘Range Rover’ centers.

Inside are Oxford leather seats with contrast stitching. The steering wheel-mounted paddleoperated gearshift and adaptive dynamics with Dynamic Program give a sportier, more engaging drive. Also fitted as standard is ‘Dynamic Response’, which adjusts the vehicle’s settings to deliver more control and comfort on and off-road. To cope with the extra demands of Supercharged, highperformance brakes have been developed in association with Brembo For more information visit www.euromotors.com or Tel. +973 1775 0750.

Range Rover Sport - Supercharged With a 5.0 liter LR-V8 510hp engine, Supercharged is the most powerful, highperformance Range Rover Sport ever created.

When compared to the previous model’s engine, it delivers more power, more torque and improved fuel economy. The Range Rover Sport Supercharged specifications include a new, eye-catching Premium Bright Finish grille finish and fender vent mesh. For a more jewel-like appearance, there are gloss black

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 105

Cars “Be part of the record breaking event.”

“Juke Universe” Bahrain’s Biggest Puzzle Competition

Nissan are getting ready to amaze everyone at the Bahrain City Center, and make it into the record books by building Bahrain’s biggest puzzle …

106 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

M

easuring 9m by 6m, the Juke Universe puzzle will be built in harmony with the Nissan Juke’s theme - ‘Energizing the City’. The puzzle will be completed with the support of Nissan’s Facebook fans in Bahrain. They can be part of record breaking event by liking the ‘Juke Universe’ application on the Facebook.com/Nissan.Bahrain page.

Users will be asked to register and select their preferred brick that will be used to complete the puzzle. Each brick image has a unique number that helps participants to

identify their brick on the actual puzzle to be built from 26th to 30th June at Bahrain City Center. The last brick will be contributed by a Nissan official.

All Facebook fans who register for the puzzle will be automatically entered in a draw and the winner will get an iPad and other exciting prizes. In addition, they will receive a brick with their chosen number as a certificate in appreciation of their participation in the puzzle. All are invited to visit the Bahrain City Center to take pictures with the biggest puzzle in Bahrain and to choose winners in the draw For more information visit Facebook.com/Nissan.Bahrain page.

Cars

The Spirit of Ramadan - ‘Caring and Sharing’

AA Bin Hindi, sole distributors of Kia Motors in Bahrain, have launched their most unique and irresistible Ramadan offer to date.

A

ll KIA cars come with free insurance, free registration and rust proofing in addition to an incredible five years unlimited mileage warranty!

KIA motors have also partnered with National Finance House (NFH) giving you the chance to win a brand new KIA

Picanto for every BD1000 they finance!

Also, from NFH, Customers can now pay their installments after (up to) 60 days.

The finance package comes with free life insurance, flexible repayment for up to seven years with attractive interest rates and the documentation has been made very simple with quick approvals from the bank.

KIA Motors has been in the global news for its innovative German Design and has seen tremendous sales growth globally. In

Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win Customers buying any new KIA during the holy month are entitled to a 43” SAMSUNG TV and a SAMSUNG HOME THEATRE SYSTEM absolutely FREE!

May 2012 KIA Motors posted a 15.5 per cent global sales growth. In Bahrain KIA has grown 50 per cent ytd.

The KIA Picanto: The small yet mighty KIA Picanto is available in either the standard option or full option: this stylish, compact city car is guaranteed to turn heads.

Complete with an impressive technical specification as standard, this five-seat hatchback is an ideal family car. With improved cabin space, advanced safety features and a distinctive, modern design, the new KIA Picanto has expertly built on its already successful predecessor to deliver a powerful, efficient vehicle with crisper handling.

Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win, Win During Ramadan, KIA showrooms are open from 9am to 1pm and 8pm to 11pm (Saturday to Thursday), and from 8pm to 11pm on Fridays. For enquiries or to book your test drive, Tel. +973 7408 8000 or email: kiasales@binhindi.com

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 107

People

Home!

Looking For A

If only animals could talk, you’d be hearing their sad, pitiful stories. But we all know they couldn’t - so in our Pet Pages, we are giving these adorable creatures a voice. One way or another, they have been hurt and abused in ways you would not even imagine a human doing to another, 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.

Benny

Speckles

Chocco

Fudge

Saffy Kiwi

Nix

Freckles

Marble

Nina

BSPCA Animals

Slipper

Yasmin

Interested in adopting?

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

Surprise

Tony The Dogfather

Vamp

Lucky

Lugg Scissorhands

Titch

Charcoal

Interested in adopting?

Toffee Casper Spud

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

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

108 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Project Catch, Neuter, Return!

S

ights like these are an everyday occurrence in Bahrain these days and many complaints have been written to the press in recent years about the increasing number of stray dogs on the Island. Sadly, as yet, there is no municipal stray animal control in Bahrain and therefore the strays are shot as an eradication solution. This is not only inhumane, but has proven totally ineffective in controlling the population long term.

Until now the BSPCA has been unable to assist due to lack of staff, suitable premises to successfully carry out a nationwide CNR programme, or the funds to deal with the burgeoning number of strays that roam residential areas. Recent discussions with the municipalities, ministries and the Animal Wealth Directorate have resulted in the Society obtaining approval to run a nationwide Catch, Neuter & Return project.

We hope that this will commence after the move to the new Animal Welfare Centre is completed in August; but first we need your help to complete a 7 day survey of the feral dog population in the first week of July and again in the first week of August. We need the public to assist us in supplying data so that we can form an accurate picture of where and how many packs there are in the country. We hope this is not too much to ask of you to help us to stop the shooting.

The Society is happy to announce that the Dogs Trust International has agreed to provide guidance and support while we develop the nationwide scheme. The BSPCA needs the public’s help to gather information. All it takes is a quick phone call or an email to give us the following data:

• The number of dogs • Are they puppies / juvenile / adult You will be able to find all the information you require (including a survey form to download) to help the BSPCA in this task on www.bspca.org. Watch for updates on our Facebook page, BSPCA Official Page and through the press.

The BSPCA team will also be on the streets throughout July and August carrying out the survey and once we have the facts we can collate the information, and select the areas that are most affected by the problem of dog packs. Dr Hansel and his team will begin the fieldwork operations in September, once funding is available.

The purpose of the project is of course population control. We need to neuter as many of the Islands strays as possible to stop them from breeding, returning the docile and healthy dogs to their own area and dealing humanely with those that are too feral, sick or injured to be returned. Once all the major packs on the

island have been dealt with it will become easier to deal with the ones that evade the traps and eventually the problem of strays will virtually disappear. The shooting will stop and the sad sight of starving mums and pups will diminish, as well as the aggressive attacks we have seen of late and we can all sleep happy in our beds knowing we have dealt with the situation in a humane way. The best result for both canines and humans.

If you feel you would like to be of more help on this nationwide project beyond phoning in to us when you see the strays, please contact the BSPCA shelter on +973 1759 1231 or email: bspca@batelco.com.bh. The BSPCA is a charity and this programme will be funded mainly by donations, so if you or your company would like to make a donation specifically to the CNR project, there is a separate account for the humane population control project, so you can rest assured your money will be used for this project alone.

• Location of any dog pack(s) in your area (road number/name, block no, area or landmark

You can help make a difference!

Please help us to help the animals!

Gastro

Gastro Calendar

Baharat Restaurant Open for Iftar and Gabgha, Baharat features live cooking stations, saj and tandoor ovens, private dining areas and a terrace to enjoy Shisha. Iftar BD17++, Ghabgha BD20++. Kids under five come for free, six to twelve year olds at half price. Group rates available on request.

Tel. +973 1717 1000 or email: restaurants.bahrain@kempinski.com

d n a t s e t a l e h T ! o g o t s e c a l tastiest p

Baharat’s Ramadan Food Selection

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

110 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Gastro

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

Sofitel Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

La Mer

Friday Brunch

Choose from Asian, Italian, Seafood, and Arabic kitchens. Enjoy refreshments and drinks, and a large variety of of French & international pastries.

Every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm. BD26 per person. Inclusive of beverages.

Tel. +973 1763 6410.

Tapas

Enjoy the Traditional Paella with Chicken, Seafood or Vegetarian, along with Live Entertainment. Every Tuesday from 7pm.

BD11++ per person. Inclusive of one beverage.

Oléééé! Viva Fiesta Latina

Enjoy the Latino Night at Tapas with Spanish buffet, signature cocktails, salsa dance courses and competitions. The Cuban duo will teach you Merengue, Salsa or cha-cha-cha. Every Friday from 7pm to 11pm. BD11++ per person.

Inclusive of one selected beverage.

Tel. +973 1763 6412.

La Mer

Enjoy carefully prepared fresh fish and seafood.

The chefs will cook your selection from the display. Every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm.

Tel. +973 1763 6363.

(buffet and a la carte) for BD9.9++ (week day) and BD11.9++ (weekend).

Tel. +973 1758 3555.

Ritz Carlton

Sheraton Hotel

La Med

The lavish iftar buffet includes traditional and international dishes including live cooking stations at Awali Ballroom. The Iftar buffet is priced at BD13.9++ for adults and BD7.5++ for kids 4 to 12 years, while kids four years and below eat for free.

Enjoy the new business lunch menu, choose from the finest Mediterranean cuisine.

Express lunch from Saturday to Thursday, 12pm to 3.30pm. BD9.5++ per person.

Tel. +973 1758 6499.

InterContinental Regency Al Liwan Tent

Enjoy Iftar buffet with a large selection of Arabic delicacies and traditional desserts. Flavoured shisha and live Arabic entertainment. Authentic Ghabga a la carte and set menus available.

BD14 per person, plus service charges. Private groups or larger parties can also be catered for at special prices.

Tel. +973 1722 7777.

Elite Resort & Spa Al Noor Tent

Enjoy the Ramadan special Iftar Buffet at BD7 per person, followed by a lavish Ghabga overlooking the Muharraq bay till late at night.

Tel. +973 1731 3388.

Bushido Bushra

Bushido will be serving up traditional Arabic food in their ‘Bushra’ tent. Iftar Is available 6.30pm to 8pm (buffet only) for BD12.5++ (week day) and BD14.5 ++ (weekend). Gabga is 9pm to 1am

Tel. +973 1753 3533.

Abdul Wahab Restaurant Enjoy a lavish Iftar buffet with a daily singer on minimum order. For reservations,

Tel. +973 1713 1111.

Al Noor Tent

Mövenpick Hotel Enjoy Ramadan with Mövenpick Hotel in their contemporary glass tent and savour Iftar from prayer time until 10pm every night. The Iftar buffet is BD12.5++ per person.

Tel. +973 1746 0000 or visit www.moevenpick-hotels.com

The K Hotel Mo Kan

Get 50 per cent off on all Sushi items on Saturday.

Enjoy a three-course Chinese lunch menu with four choices at BD7 net per person, from Saturday to Thursday.

Love Dimsum? Get a platter of 20 pieces, good for two at BD9.8++ per platter from Sunday to Wednesday.

Enjoy the flavours of the Orient on Wednesday, served with one cup of Sake, miso soup and seafood tempura at BD16++ per person.

Klouds

Enjoy the Friday brunch buffet, with unlimited drinks at BD19.5++ per person.

On Thursday nights, enjoy a seafood buffet at BD12++ per person.

And, on Tuesdays, get jumbo sized skewers, served with one side dish and a fresh salad at BD12++ per person.

Tel. +973 1736 0000.

If you want to see your event listed send your material by the 15th of every month by email:

bc.editorial@ArabianMagazines.com

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 111

Ramadan Offers!

n a d a Ram ! s r e f f O The Holy Month of Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic Calendar, is a spiritual time - meant for reflection.

The word “Ramadan” derived from the Arabic root word ‘Ramada’ denoting intense scorching heat and dryness.

Most Muslims spend daylight hours in a fast, without eating or drinking anything.

But, the evenings are usually filled with lavish Iftars and Ghabgas.

The preparations for Ramadan have begun!

The entire month is celebrated all over the Kingdom with special offers, so everyone can indulge in this month of festivity. Check out our picks of some of the best Ramadan deals, treats and retreats ...

112 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Ramadan Offers!

Lavish Iftar Treats at Elite!

Elite Hospitality are offering

lavish, mouth-watering Ramadan treats at the Al Noor Tent, in Elite Resort and Spa. The Ramadan specials include an Iftar Buffet at BD7 per person followed by a lavish Ghabga overlooking the Muharraq bay till late at night.

The ambience is further accentuated with unique entertainment and art forms that will thrill not only the corporate clients but get the families involved as well. Separate activities are planned for kids. Daily surprises and corporate packages will keep the tent eventful.

A daily raffle draw will be conducted for the diners, with prizes sponsored by Bahrain Air, Al Hawaj, Zain, Al Ayam, Al Ahlia University, Mahamco, AJM Kooheji and Elite Hospitality.

Special room packages with Iftar and Suhoor are also available.

For more information Tel. +973 1731 3388or visit www.elitegroup4u.com

Al Safir Hotel and Tower

Ramadan with Al Safir …

This Ramadan Al Safir Hotel & Tower will be offering a Gala Iftar Buffet featuring Middle Eastern and international fare. A fabulous, purpose built glass tent which with a 200 person capacity will be located in front of Al Safir Hotel & Tower.

The Iftar Buffet will open after Maghreb prayers and will continue until 11pm at an excellent rate BD6++.

Special group rate of BD6 net for groups of ten persons is available for attracting families and corporate groups.

Also available is the special Ghabga Buffet menu for large groups with attractive rates. You can also purchase discount voucher booklets. The tent has Arabic seating as well as restaurant and banquet style seating. Shisha and beverages will be on offer too.

Live entertainment, sponsored by Oman Air will available every evening in the form of The Cairo Band from Egypt who are specially flown in to add to atmosphere of Ramadan and make your evenings memorable. Ramadan games will also be available at the tent.

Catering is available should you wish for a private Iftar Buffet in your home, or other location.

For booking and enquiries, please Tel. +973 1782 7999 or email: banquet@alsafirhotel.com

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 113

Ramadan Offers!

Experience A Regal Ramadan InterContinental Regency Bahrain invites you to experience the unique atmosphere at Al Thuraya Tent.

Each evening, at sunset, a lavish Iftar buffet will showcase a large selection of Arabic delicacies including hommos, moutabel, tabbouleh, labneh with mint, okra belzeet, cheese samboussek, kebbeh, kofta bill tahina together with traditional desserts such as maamoul, baklawa, mohalabia, jelabiya, katayef with cheese konafa and um ali.

All this and more can be enjoyed for BD14 per person plus service charges.

Private groups or larger parties can also be catered for at special prices.

For those who prefer to dine out after Iftar, the Al Liwan tent allows them to enjoy the late evening lingering over a flavoured shisha and the original live Arabic entertainment. A range of authentic Ghabga a la carte and set menus is available throughout the evening.

Tel. +973 1720 8308.

114 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Ramadan Offers!

So Sumptuous ... Sofitel Make Ramadan extra special this year and treat your family with an escape to the pearl white shores of Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Celebrate the holy month in comfort at the GCC’s first thalassotherapy spa, which harnesses the unique healing power of sea water to aid wellbeing. Guests will receive 20 per cent off spa treatments at the Thalassa Spa until 15th August.

While parents relax in the spa, children will be entertained with a variety of activities offered by the Kids Club.

For two hours after sunset, break your fast at Saraya ‘All Day Dining’ restaurant with a buffet of Ramadan delicacies such as a selection of Oriental salads, live cooking stations including Manakeesh, Shawarma, Arabic bread, foul and balila and falafel stations. There will be an impressive sweets station featuring mainly oriental delicacies including the favourite Um Ali. Enjoy Ghabga in an air-conditioned tent on Saraya Terrace.

A gentle soundtrack of Arabic music by Lebanese duo Majeed and Marwan will accompany games such as cards, dominos, and darts.

Rooms during Ramadan start from BD65++ for single occupancy and BD75++ for double occupancy. Iftar buffet is BD15++ per person or BD14++ per person for group reservations (minimum 20 people), Ghabga is BD15++ on weekdays and BD17++ on weekends per person with Shisha available for an additional BD5++.

For reservations, Tel. +973 1763 6363.

Spectacular Ramadan At Mövenpick Hotels A world of fine traditional cuisine and amazing Ramadan atmosphere at the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Pool side tent. section will be able to choose their favourite shisha flavour throughout the evening while non-smokers will be pleased by the adequate ventilation as they enjoy a great meal.

The hotel’s Iftar buffet will encompass traditional Middle Eastern cuisine from the starters and drinks to the main courses and desserts. Here you will find harees, quzi, madhrooba, thereed and kunafa all for BD12.5++ per person.

Mövenpick Hotel has built

a contemporary glass tent especially for the Holy Month of Ramadan. Able to accommodate up to 120 people and divided into a smoking and non-smoking section, this tent provides a timeless setting for guests to savour Iftar from prayer time until 10pm every night.

The Arabic décor creates a relaxing atmosphere where you can listen to music while enjoying a game of cards, chess or dominoes. Guests seated in the smoking

Mövenpick offers two separate options for Ghabga. Guests can dine on customary fish dishes as part of the à la carte menu or choose the Ghabga buffet instead.

In addition, savings of up to 25 per cent on accommodation are available. A stay in the rooms will cost only BD49++ per night for the months of July and August.

For more information visit www.moevenpick-hotels.com or call +973 1746 0000.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 115

Ramadan Offers!

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel, Bahrain City Centre

It’s SO Worth It! I had the pleasure of getting the Radiance Body Polish treatment at Kempinski Pure Spa - and I still feel like I’m in heaven. The therapist was highly trained to hit all the sweet spots. The sea salt scrub was worked in really well with the oils. The after-scrub cream massage was just divine. It left the skin soft and supple.

You know that moment during Ramadan when you just want to hide under the bed ... tired of all the iftars, ghabgas and socialising? That’s when you must spend

some time at this luxurious spa - the perfect retreat! - By Maliha Aqueel Kempinski Pure Spa Package Spend two nights in a Deluxe guest room and unwind with a Pure Spa treatment of your choice and a grooming session. Plus, enjoy the ‘Shopping Passport’ for exclusive retail privileges. Starts at BD250++ for two nights, including breakfast.

Tel. +973 1717 1111 or email: reservations.bahrain@kempinski.com

Köşebaşı: The Best of Turkish Food Köşebaşı, the Anatolian Turkish restaurant is offering a mouth-watering Iftar experience everyday from sunset.

Customers will be spoilt with a selection of appetizers including Abagannuş, Zeytinyağli Fasulye, and of course the signature Toros salad. Followed by an open charcoal grill where diners will get to taste the very best of Köşebaşı’s meat dishes. The bread is baked freshly in the wood oven and is served complimentary with the menu. Dessert lovers should not miss the the Kϋnefe and Arap Tatlısı served at the end of the sumptuous menu. The Iftar set menu costs BD12.9 per person and BD6.3 for children under 10 years.

Köşebaşı - part of the AZADEA Group – is located in Bahrain City Centre. For more information Tel. +973 1717 2322.

Bushido’s “Bushra” For Ramadan For the month of Ramadan, Bushido will be converted into a modern Arabic tent to welcome “Bushra” - the Arabic version of Bushido. Dining options will include a mix of buffet, live cooking stations and a la carte with saj, shawarma, ouzzi, hot and cold mezza, and some unique creations. Traditional tea and Arabic coffee with dates is presented on arrival, in order to properly break the fast.

Iftar buffet is available 6.30pm to 8pm for BD12.5++ on weekdays and BD14.5++ at the weekends.

Ghabga is from 9pm to 1am (buffet and a la carte) for BD9.9++ on weekdays and BD11.9++ on weekend. And the Shisha Lounge is available 6.30pm to 1am (a la carte options only). A la carte fine dining Arabic options also available.

Tel. +973 1758 3555.

116 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Advertorial

Master Butcher Peter Sass

The Right Cut!

Master Butcher Peter Sass of The Butcher Shop & GRILL restaurant talks us through the different cuts available ...

T

he secret of cooking a good steak? Buy a good steak! – advises Master Butcher Peter Sass. After that, the way it is cooked depends largely on the choice of cut, ultimately affecting the flavour and taste.

Fillet: The Fillet is found inside the carcass alongside the rib cage, from below the shoulder to the rump. The Fillet is boneless and the most tender of all the beef cuts; it is also virtually fat free. Whole Fillets are cut into round steaks and can be roasted or barbequed. With hardly any fat, be aware that the meat will dry out quickly, so make sure to baste it frequently or just briefly dip into stock every now and then.

Rump: The Rump is not as tender as the Fillet but with a slightly more enhanced flavour. When cut into steaks, it often consists of two pieces of meat loosely joined together. This cut has a layer of fat on one side and is a superb tasting steak.

Sirloin: The Sirloin meat is cut off the bone from the loin. The meat has a covering of fat on one side and is cut like a loaf of bread to produce steaks. Many consider the Sirloin to be the tastiest steak; it is also very suitable for roasting.

“The choice of cut, ultimately affects the flavour and taste.”

T-Bone: The T-Bone, also known as the Short Loin, has a Fillet steak on one side and a Sirloin steak on the other. It is connected with a T-Shaped bone - hence the name. The meat is fairly tender and has a fine texture. The Fillet gets bigger towards the rump side. It is cut into steaks or can be kept whole for roasting.

Prime Rib: Prime Rib is also popularly known as Bone-in-Rib-Eye in the United States. The whole Prime Rib is a Rib-Eye that is connected to four or five rib bones.

The meat is separated by thin layers of fat. It is not as tender as other cuts, but therefore packed with flavour. It is a firm favourite for roasting, or it can be cut into a steak with the bone included.

Rib–Eye: The Rib-Eye is obtained by removing the ‘eye’ from the Prime Rib; usually the fat covering the meat is removed as well.

The Rib-Eye requires a longer time to age, but results in a tender steak full of flavour.

The Butcher Shop & GRILL offers premium, perfectly aged cuts at their retail butchery

Rump Steak

as well as BBQ tools, sauces and marinades to enhance your barbeque experience.

The butchery counter is open every day from 9am The Butcher Shop & GRILL The Butcher Shop & GRILL is a grill house and is aimed at the discerning diner, offering a quality meal for the entire family. The Butcher Shop & GRILL specializes in top quality grills as well as offering a fully fledged retail butchery and allows customers to select the size and cut of their own steak. Along with steaks, a range of burgers, seafood and poultry meals are on offer. The Butcher Shop & GRILL can be found in Bahrain City Centre. For more information visit www.butchershop-me.com, Tel. +973 1717 2323.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 117

Nightlife

Elite Crystal Hotel Finesse Nights

Every Sunday and Wednesday.

Complimentary cocktails for ladies and prizes for Finesse members.

Bubblicious Nights

Every Monday - Buy a premium bottle any day of the week and get a complimentary bottle of champagne to be consumed on Mondays.

O Club at Elite Resort and Spa An ideal place to relax and unwind, the ‘O’ Club and Fusion restaurant have a modern, trendy and high-end design.

Daily 7pm until 1am.

Tel. +973 1731 3333.

Night The

Never Looked

Bright So

Offers valid only until the start of Ramadan. Please call ahead to make sure offers are still valid.

Zodiac Lounge at Elite Crystal Hotel

Camelot Restaurant

Monday: Acoustic Duo with James & Jo; Wednesday: Ladies can enjoy a martini or champagne cocktail, along with one complimentary drink from 6pm to midnight.

Tel. +973 1771 7745.

JJ’s Irish Restaurant

Sundays-Quiz night at JJ`s. Peroni beer special (5btls for BD9.5). Ladies night (BD4 for unlimited beverages).

Mondays - JJ’s Karaoke night.

Free shot of Tequila for everybody that sings.

Corona beer special (5 bottles for BD9.5).

Wednesdays - DJ Mick and the live sounds of The Noise band.

118 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Ladies night (BD4 for unlimited house beverages).

Thursdays - DJ + Live band.

Art.Haus till mid-July At The Music Hall every Thursday featuring local DJs and and DJ Sami Dee and Miled spinning house, techno and disco music. Doors open from 10.30pm till 2am. Tickets: Free entry before 11.30pm, BD3 after (offer includes 1 free drink).

Cocoon Lounge The Lipstick Lounge

Wednesdays and Fridays. Complimentary cocktails and free entry for the ladies.

Fabulous!

Every Thursday. The exclusive RnB night with

special guest urban DJs! Ladies get free bubbly all night long.

Royal Golf Club

Happy Hour at Links Lounge and Restaurant. Enjoy discounts every day on selected beverages. From 5pm to 7pm, Sunday to Thursday. Tel. +973 1775 0777.

Bushido

All Week Lounge After Work (Bushido Lounge) - Buy 1, Get 1 free, 4pm to 7pm. Terrace now open.

Mezzanine Lounge, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre

Nightlife The K Hotel

Happy Hour: 5pm to 7pm; 30% off on house spirits, house wine by glass, all kinds of beer, soft drinks and juices while playing darts and billiards with friends for free.

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

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa Paella & Sangria Party at Tapas

Enjoy traditional paella cooked with chicken, seafood or vegetarian along with our live Cuban band “La vida real”.

Every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm. BD15++ per person. Unlimited buffet including a carafe of Sangria for 2. Tel. +973 1763 6412.

Crowne Plaza Hotel

Harvesters Pub Daily Promotions Be entertained with the Harvesters Pub’s inhouse band ‘Majors’. Daily promotions include cocktail night (Saturday and Tuesday),

Food and Beverage Industry night

(Sunday - with 50% discounts to all hotel employees), Ladies nights (Monday), Pitcher night (Wednesday), Jam with the band (Friday).

Happy hour daily from 5pm till 8pm.

Band starts from 9pm.

Tel. +973 1753 1122 for more information

InterContinental Regency Hotel Downtown Lounge

Live entertainment brought to you by their new South African band, TACIT every night of the week. Happy hour from 4 to 8pm with 30 per cent discount on your bill.

Mercure Hotel Casa Bar

Happy Hour: Buy one get one free all week on all beverages from 2pm to 7pm. Enjoy BBQ nights every Wednesday and Thursday at BD4 per person. And, enjoy the Salsa night every Saturday.

Tel. +973 1758 4400.

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel

games, water ball, and lots more with prizes to be won. Tel. +973 1746 0000.

Mezzanine Lounge

Enjoy the After-Work promotion, from 6pm to 8pm and buy one to get another free. Offer valid on selected drinks only. Live entertainment available from 8pm till 1am.

Tel. +973 1717 1000.

Mövenpick Hotel Flamingo Bar and Lounge

Football fever is back! Starting from 8th June, Euro Championship soccer nightly live broadcast from Ukraine and Poland at 7pm and the second game at 9.45pm. Special beer

Mercure Hotel

Flamingo Bar and Lounge, Mövenpick Hotel

Sheraton Hotel

Ladies Night and Happy Hour at An Nada It’s Ladies Night Out every Monday and Thursday. Free unlimited drinks every Monday and three drinks for free every Thursday at An Nada Lounge from 8pm to 1am. Daily Happy Hour with 25 per cent discount on selected beverages served from 1pm to 7pm with live entertainment every night except Saturday.

Tel. +973 1753 3533.

If you want to see your event listed send your material by the 15th of every month by email:

bc.editorial@ArabianMagazines.com

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 119

Listings

Restaurant Listings Chinese Hong Kong Adliya, Tel. 1772 8700 The myriad dishes are served in abundance and are all delicately and lovingly flavoured. The soft steamed dumplings are magnificent, the sizzling seafood is cooked to perfection, and the beef with black mushrooms and bamboo shoots deserves plaudits beyond Bahrain.

Copper Chimney Al Hambra Hotel (1772 8699) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.

Average DB10 Lanterns Budaiya Highway (1759 0591) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.

Average BD15 Moti Mahal Juffair (1782 5333)

Waves Crowne Plaza Hotel, Tel. 1753 1122 A popular lunchtime retreat, picking your fish and eating it is the order of the day, and the catch is as varied as it is complete. And the nutty, honeycombed chocolate fudge delight will finish you off nicely.

Le Jardin Ramada Bahrain, Tel. 1774 2000 Fully renovated with a new look - ‘Bigger, Better, Brighter’.

Beijing Chinese Adliya, Block 338 (1771 7969) Open daily, 11.30-3pm, 6pm-midnight.

Average BD15 First Chinese Adliya (1771 3603) Open noon-3.30pm, 6pm-midnight.

Foli Um Al Hassam (1772 2199) Open noon-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm.

Asian Cuisine Adliya (1771 7080) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.

Average BD50 Magic Wok American Alley, Juffair (1769 4105) Open daily 8am-11pm Memories Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 8646) Open Sat-Wed 11am-11pm; Thu-Fri 11am-midnight. Average BD12

Indian Aachi’s Chettinand Kitchen Near the Indian Club, Gudaibiya (1723 3110) Open daily 10.30am-3.30pm, 5.30pm-11.30pm.

Akbar Ramada Palace Hotel (1729 6660) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-12.30am.

Average BD16 Asha’s Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 7008) Open daily 11am-noon Clay Oven Adliya (1771 7008) Open daily 11.30am-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm Average BD14

120 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Open daily noon-midnight Average BD15 Mumbai Spice Bahrain Mall, Sanabis Open daily 10am-10pm Sangeetha Opp Inidian Club, Gudaibiya (1727 2768) Open daily 7.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm Spices Crowne Plaza Bahrain, Diplomatic Area (1753 1122) Open daily noon-11pm Average BD25 Takatak Nr Awal Cinema, Gudaibiya (1725 4848) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm The Great Kebab Factory Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 0629) Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight

International Fusions Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 The food and wine list will keep you coming back to Fusions. Try the beautifully tender grilled sirloin with boldly flavoured ginger mash and a selection of roasted vegetables.

Links Restaurant The Royal Golf Club, Tel. 1775 0777 Links, located on the mezzanine floor of the Club House, is a large, brasserie-style restaurant/lounge open to all visitors to the Royal Golf Club. Features include a cocktail bar, an outdoor terrace and floor to ceiling picture windows offering patrons spectacular views across the golf courses.

Silk’s Mövenpick Hotel, Tel. 1746 0000 With cuisine inspired by the four continents of the Silk Route, the food on offer here is eclectic and varied all cooked in front of you in open kitchens around the restaurant.

Zytoun Novotel Al Dana Resort (1729 8008) Open daily 6.30am-midnight.

Average BD16

American

La Méditerranée The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Tel. 1758 0000 Asian, French, Mediterranean and International cuisine.

Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Juffair, Tel. 1772 5550 Specialising in good ol’ fashioned home-cooked American chow, Ric’s does a mean burger, excellent chilli and a mouth watering Jambalaya.

Its American breakfasts are legendary.

Olivos Brasserie The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1752 2124 This Mediterranean brasserie offers superb food in a relaxed atmosphere. In buffet style you can enjoy a super breakfast, sumptuous lunch and delicious dinner.

Soie Sheraton, Tel. 1753 3533 Chinese and Asian specialities in sophisticated and elegant Oriental surroundings.

Zoe Block 338, Adliya (1771 6400) Open Sat-Tue noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight; Wed-Fri noon-3pm, 7pm-2am.

Average BD18/25

The Gallery Mövenpick Hotel, Tel. 1746 0000 Picturesque pool and lagoon views.

Le Bistro InterContinental Regency, Tel. 1722 7777 Main restaurant situated above the lobby with International buffet lunch daily.

Hong Kong Restaurant

Yamin Jana Mediterranean Seafront Lounge Dragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 3800) Open daily from 2pm onwards

Al Waha Restaurant Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6425) Open 24 hours Al Wasmeyah Restaurant Golden Tulip Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 5000) Open 24 hours Block 338 Adliya (1771 0338) Open every evening from noon-2am Café Sayah Delmon International Hotel (1722 4000) Open 24 hours Downtown Lounge InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily from 5pm to 2am La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts Ras Ruman (1771 3000) Open daily 9am-10.30pm. Closed Monday.

Average BD20 Muju Restaurant and Lounge Dragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 9800) Open daily, 24 hours Nando’s Juffair (1782 5100) Open 11am-2am Rendezvous Seef Mall, Seef (1758 7708) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm Rimal Al Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000) Open daily 6.30am-11pm Average BD40 Selections InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily from 6.30 am to 11.30 pm Teatro Dana Mall (1755 8555) Sat-Wed 1pm-4.30pm, 6.30pm-midnight; Thu-Fri 1pm-11.30pm Average BD19 Upstairs Downstairs Adliya (1771 3093) Open daily 7am-11am, noon-3am, 7pm-midnight Average BD20

Applebee’s Bahrain Mall, Sanabis (1755 5834) Open Sun-Thu, 11am-mid-night, Fri-Sat, 11am-1am. Average BD10 Bennigan’s Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, Tel. 1781 3750 (Open 6am - 2am, all week; Also serves breakfast.)

Brasa de Brazil Seef Mall, Seef District (1758 2225) Open daily, noon-11pm. Average BD10 Chilli’s Seef Mall/Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1758 1221/1717 9794) Open daily, noon-midnight. N.B.: BCC opening times apply. Average BD20 Hard Rock Café Exhibition Road, Hoora (1729 1569) Open daily, 8am-1am. Average BD10

Italian Cucina Italiana Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, Tel. 1700 1317 (Open 6am-2am, all week; Also serves breakfast.)

Mondo Restaurant The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666 The goat’s cheese and rocket pizza is probably the best in Bahrain. A funky, friendly Italian place, just like momma used to make it.

La Pergola Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 Traditional and contemporary Italian specialities with Italian music.

Caffe Spasso New Zinj (1782 2274) Open daily 8.30am till late Café Italia Adliya (1774 4774) Open daily noon-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm.

Average BD35 La Taverna City Centre Hotel, Gold City (1722 9979) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.

Average BD18 Medzo InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily for lunch and dinner Mino’s Adliya (1774 4777) Open daily 11am-12.30am.

Average BD15 Nino’s Restaurant Al A’ali Complex, Seef Tel. +973 1756 6555

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

Listings

Restaurant Listings

Medzo

Oliveto Block 338, Adliya (1771 6747) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.

Average BD30 Pizzeria Café Italia Seef Mall (1758 2823) Open daily 11am-11pm.

Average BD12 Roma Um Al Hassam (1772 5885) Open daily noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm.

Average BD30 Romano Macaroni Grill Juffair (1772 3818)

Japanese Sato Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 The food here is good. Order well and you will be rewarded with your favourite dishes done very well indeed.

Bushido Seef (1758 3555) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-2am.

Average BD35 Fuji Sushi Bar Sheza Tower Hotel (1753 3336) Open daily 12.30pm-midnight.

Average BD25

Middle Eastern Kosebası Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2322 www.kosebasi.com Kosebası (pronounced koshe-bashi) serves traditional Turkish mezes and main dishes true to original Southern Anatolian recipes. The centerpieces of the restaurant are a lovely ornated oven and an open charcoal grill.

Al Abraaj Budaiya (1759 5656) Open daily noon-midnight Al Arisha Um Al Hassan (1772 5414) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight Al Arz Ramada Palace Hotel (1729 6660) Open 7pm-midnight Al Fanar Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa (1753 1666) Open Mon-Sat 9.30pm-2am Al Hamra Delmon International Hotel (1722 4000) Open 24 hours Al Mukhayam Ramada Palace Hotel Open daily 8pm-1am Al Shama Windsor Tower Hotel (1729 7000) Open daily 9pm-2am

Kei Golden Tulip Hotel (1753 5000) Open daily 12.30pm-3pm, 7.30pm-11pm.

Average BD12-30

Al Yacout Novotel Al Dana Resort, Muharraq (1729 8008) Open daily 8pm-2am

Mirai Adliya (1771 3113) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm.

Average BD40.

Sumo Sushi and Bento American Alley, Juffair (1771 8090) Open daily noon-midnight.

Sushi 101 New Zinj (1782 2274) Open Sat-Thu noon-3pm, 6pm till late; Fri 1pm-4pm, 7pm till late.

Sushi Ko Adliya (1771 6619) Open Sat-Wed 6.30pm-11pm; Thu 6.30pm-midnight.

Average BD11 Yo Sushi Al Aali Shopping Complex, Seef (1758 3373) Open Sat-Wed noon-midnight; Thu-Fri noon-2am Average BD20

Baan Saeng Thai Sh Isa Avenue, Adliya Open daily 11.30am-3pm, 6pm-midnight.

Laialy Zaman Nr Funland, Fateh Corniche (1729 3097) Open daily 11am-4am

Bali Orchid Nr Omar Khayyam Hotel, Gudaibiya (1718 0424) Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD7

Marmaris Avenue 28, Sanabis (1755 5909) Open daily 11am-midnight

BamBu Adliya (1771 4424) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm. Average BD28

Maseelee Gulf Pearl Hotel, Souq (1721 0647) Open daily 5am-9.30pm

Captain Cove’s Behind Mass Computer, Gudaibiya (3975 8989) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight.

Average BD5

Mono Lebanese Budaiya Highway (1755 5262) Open daily noon-midnight

Hajisushi American Ally, Juffair (1772 5638) Open daily 11am-11pm.

Maki MODA Mall (1752 2733) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD40

L’Sultan L’Hotel, Seef (1756 7222) Open daily noon-midnight

Amwaj Dajla Iraqi Mirador Hotel, Manama (1729 8008) Open daily 8pm-2am Anatolia Turkish Restaurant Cyprus Garden, Budaiya (1769 0601) Open daily noon-11pm Carla’s Cyprus Garden, Sehla (1769 7687) Open daily noon-midnight Dar Al Tajine Phoenicia Tower Hotel, Hoora (1731 1167) Open daily 6pm-6pm Golestan Sheraton Bahrain Hotel (1753 3533) Open Sun-Fri 12.30pm-2.30pm, 7.30pm-11.30pm.

Average BD12 Isfahani Hoora (1755 0567) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD20 Khan Al Marjan Al Safir Hotel Hotel (1782 7999) Open daily 9.30pm-2am

Parsian Adliya (1781 1511) Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7.30pm-midnight.

Average BD14 Persian Garden Seef (1758 600) Open noon-11pm Persian Room Amwaj island-the lagoon Tel:1601 0166, Mob: 3927 6249 Opening Sat-Wed noon-midnight Thu-Fri noon-1am Average BD9 Rayes Fateh Corniche (1731 2700) Open daily noon-12.30am Average BD12 Takht-e Jamsheed Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6431) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm Tarbouche City Centre Hotel, Gold City (1722 9979) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight Wafi Gourmet Bahrain City Centre (1779 999) Open daily 9am-12.30am Yas-e Isfahani Seef Mall (1758 1151) Open daily 10am-10pm.

Average BD16

Seafood Fareast Seafood Market Ramee International Hotel, Juffair (1772 7230) Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pm.

Average BD16 Fish Market Al Bander Hotel and Resort (1770 1201) Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pm Average BD25 La Marine Bugerland Building, Budaiya (1759 5777) Open daily 1pm-midnight Sheza Seafood Market Sheza Tower Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 3336) Open daily 12.30pm-midnight

Hash House Adliya, Block 338 (1771 5094) Open daily 11am-midnight. Average BD15 Honey’s Souq (1774 9222) Open Sun-Wed 10am-5.30am, Fri-Sat, 24hrs.

Mamy Soup Exhibition Road, behind the CPR building (3919 5343) Open daily 11am-11pm.

Monsoon Adliya, near Ferrari Centre (1774 9222) Open Sat-Thu noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11pm; Fri 7pm-11pm. Average BD15 Nu Asia Seef, near Al A’ali Shopping Complex (1758 7171) Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD15.

Pong’s Off Exhibition Road, Behind CPR Office (1753 0800) Open daily 11am-4am.

Thai Chi Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9747) Open daily noon-midnight.

Thai Express Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 3595) Open daily 10am-11.30pm Thailand Block 338, Adliya (1771 7040) Open daily 6.30pm-11.30pm, Average BD15

Steakhouses The Butcher Shop & Grill Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2323 Serves a wide variety of steaks as well as salads, burgers and seafood dishes. Integrated into the restaurant is also a fully functioning retail butchery, which enables customers to choose a specific cut and size or buy meats for their home requirements.

Brazil Adliya (1782 6686) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm.

L’lle Al Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000) Open every evening, 6pm-11pm Legendz Steakhouse InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308) Open daily for lunch and dinner

Totally Fish Bahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9757) Open daily noon-midnight

Le Relais de Venise Son Entrecote L’Hotel, Seef (1756 7222) Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm.

Average BD40

Asian

Ponderosa Steakhouse Seef - Tel. 1758 0552 Open all week from 11am - 1am

Kontiki Restaurant The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666 Enjoy authentic dishes from Asia and the South Pacific for lunch and dinner. Or head over to the Kontiki Pool bar from 10am to 11pm.

Sizzlers Restaurant Mansouri Mansions Hotel (1771 6999) 24 hours. Average 10

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 121

Listings

Restaurant Listings The Meat Co Block 338 (1774 2080) Open Sat-Wed 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm; Thu-Fri 12.30pm-midnight Average BD50 Mezzaluna Adliya (1774 2999) Open daily Sun-Wed 7pm-11pm; Thu-Sat 7pm-11.30pm Average BD46

French Camelot Block 338, Adliya (1771 7745) Open daily noon-midnight Average BD30 L’Avenue Seef District (1756 7212) Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7.30pm-11pm

Mexican Casa Mexicana Adliya (1771 5521) Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight.

Average BD18 Margarita Mexicana Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6462) Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm Senior Paco’s Adliya (1774 6462) Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight.

Average BD18

Polynesian Trader Vic’s Ritz Carlton Hotel and Spa, Seef (1758 6555) Open daily 7pm-midnight Average BD20

Thai Royal Thai Seafood Restaurant Gulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 Colonial stateliness and Asian adornment is the order of the day with high ceilings, great white pillars and multiple levels to accommodate private alcoves; it’s a grand and gracious setting. Choose ostrich, just because you can.

Muay Thai Quick Meal Restaurant Juffair Next to The Pizza Company Thai Food, Tel. 7704 0454 Daily Open: 12pm-12am

Cafés Café T The Royal Golf Club, Tel. 1775 0777 Café T serves a selection of burgers, salads, fresh and ready-made sandwiches, fruit juices, milkshakes and frozen drinks. With an outdoor terrace seating up to 30 people and relaxing background music, Café T is the perfect place to meet up for a chat with friends.

PAUL Bakery & Restaurant Bahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2321 Seef Mall, Tel. 1758 0073 www.paul.fr Since the founding of the first small PAUL bakery in Lille back in 1889, the passion for authentic bread making has been passed on through generations.

- and relax in PAUL’s unique ‘rustic-chic’ ambience.

122 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

A Lounge Adliya, Behind Monsoon (1771 0041) Open daily, 11am-2am. Average BD15 Al Bindaira Adliya (1774 4066) Open Mon-Thu, 10.30am-12.30am, Fri, 1pm-1am. Average BD12

Maya Chocolat Seef Mall, Seef District Open Sun-Wed, 10am-11pm; Fri-Sat, 10am-midnight. Average BD15 Med Café Adliya, near Carlton Hotel (1771 3088) Open daily 11am-1am. Average BD10

Chocolatiers Godiva Seef Mall, Seef District (1758 0699) Open 10am-10pm Hotel Chocolat Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9779) Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight

Albareh Art Café Adliya, Behind the Carlton Hotel (1771 3535) Open daily, 8.30am-11pm. Average BD5

Motorox Café Budaiya Highway (1759 2583) Open daily from noon-midnight. Average BD12

Al Riwaq Café Adliya, Block 338 (1771 7441) Open daily 10am-9pm. Average BD5

Palm Café Qal’at Al Bahrain Museum (1732 2549) Open daily 9.30am-7.30pm. Average BD6

Aroma Restaurant & Cafe Ground Floor, Seef Mall, Seef District Open for lunch and dinner (1758 2711)

Patisserie Valerie MODA Mall, Diplomatic Area Open daily 7.30am-9pm

Café Lilou Adliya, Block 338 (1771 4440) Open Sat-Thu 8am-11pm; Fri 10am-11.30pm.

Average BD10

Skyw@alk Café Marriott Executive Apartments, Juffair Open daily 6.30am-11.30pm. Average BD12

Maya La Chocolaterie Seef Mall (1758 3368) Open daily, Sun-Thursday 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-12am

Tea Club The Lagoon, Amwaj Islands Open daily 12pm-midnight. Average BD8

Patchi Manama, near Dairy Queen (1725 0501) Open daily 9.30am-9pm

Tilly’s Jawad Dome, Budaiya Open daily 8.30am-9.30pm

RAWASI Chocola Mahooz, near Qatar Embassy Open daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm.

Fri open from 4pm-9pm

Candles Coffee Adliya, Behind Fudruckers (1771 4844) Open Sun-Thu 9am-1am; Fri 5pm-1am, Average BD12 Caramel Cyprus Gardens, Budaiya (1779 7087) Open daily, 8.30am-midnight. Average BD5.

Café Ceramique Al A’ali Mall, Seef District Open daily, 9am-11pm; Fri-Sat 9am-midnight.

Average BD8 Coco’s Adliya, Block 338 (1771 6512) Open daily 10am-midnight. Average BD10

Veranda Adliya, Nr HSBC bank and Adhari (1771 5868) Open daily 9.am-1am. Average BD8 Waterlemon Al A’ali Shopping Complex, Seef District (1758 1785) Open daily, 10am-11pm. Average BD6

La Papillon Manama, near Dairy Queen (1725 5542) Open daily 9.30am-9pm Lovely Memories Mahooz (1772 2533) Open daily 10am-10pm

Salvia Budaiya, Budaiya Highway Open daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm.

Fri open from 4pm-9pm

Columbus Café Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 2324) Open daily, 8am-midnight. Average BD7 Crepe Café Palm Square, Budaiya Highway (7711 5566) Open Sun-Wed, 8am-midnight. Thu-Sat 8am-1pm. Average BD6 Deli France Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 6031) Open Sun-Thu, 8am-10pm; Fri-Sat, 8am-11pm.

Average BD9 Dome Café Juffair, near American Base (1781 0180) Open 24 hours. Average BD15 Friend’s Club Adliya, 54 Bani Otbah Avenue (1771 3732) Open Sat-Wed, 10am-midnight; Thu-Fri, 10am-1am. Average BD8 Gloria Jean’s Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9262) Open Sat-Wed, 9am-10.30pm; Thu-Fri, 9am-midnight. Average BD8 House of Coffee Muharraq, Sheikh Ebrahim Centre (3662 9968) Open daily 9am-9pm, Average BD6 La Maison du Café Adliya (1771 7524) Open daily 8am-2am. Average BD12 La Ventana At the moment La Ventana is currently undergoing renovation – check this space over the coming months to find out where the new café is located and our opinion!

Le Chocolat Seef, Seef District Open daily 7.30am-midnight. Average BD10 Macaron Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa (17636418) Open daily from 8am-8pm

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

So Brunch - Saraya, Wok and Fiamma International Buffet Selection and Live stations.

BD 26/net per person inclusive of soft drinks, chilled juices, free flow of sparkling wine, red and white wine, beers and a cocktail of the day.

Kids below 6 are free of charge and between 6-12 years old get 50% off.

Every Friday from 12.30-4pm Tel. +973 1763 6410 Saraya - International All Day Dining International Buffet for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and A la carte throughout the day.

A la carte throughout the day, all week.

Open daily from 6.30am-11pm Breakfast Buffet: BD11++ Lunch Buffet: BD12.5++ (BD15 net) Dinner Buffet: BD12.5++ (BD15 net) Tel. +973 1763 6410 Fiamma - Italian Restaurant Regional Italian cuisines with a wide selection of wines for Lunch and Dinner.

Monday to Saturday (Closed on Sunday) 12:30pm-3pm (Thurs, Fri, Sat) 7-11pm Tel. +973 1763 6414 Pashawat - Arabic Restaurant (Opening Soon) Open Tuesday - Sunday (Closed on Monday) 7pm-12midnight Tel. +973 1763 6413

Wok - Asian Restaurant Authentic Southeast Asian Cuisine.

A la Carte Dinner - 7-11pm.

Wednesday - Monday (Closed on Tuesday) Tel. +973 1763 6415 La Mer - Seafood Restaurant Open Daily for A la carte Dinner - 7-11pm.

Large international wine selection.

Tel. +973 1763 6411 Tapas Bar Open Daily for Lunch and Dinner Open from 11.30am - 12midnight Food Available between 11.30am - 3.30pm and 7pm - 12midnight Tel. +973 1763 6412 Lagoon - Pool Bar Lunch and Dinner Open Daily - light snacks; A la carte from 9am until sunset Tel. +973 1763 6416 Lobby Lounge and Macaron Pastry Shop Lobby Lounge: 8am-12midnight Macaron: 8am-8pm. French pastries, Baked Viennoiseries and Macarons.

Tel. +973 1763 6418 Amber - Cocktail Bar Open Daily from 6pm-2am Tel. +973 1763 6419

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

Listings

Sports, Fitness and Kids Creative Kids

Fitness/Aerobics/Spinning

Meditation/Yoga

Al Safir Fitness First The Regency The Diplomat Radisson Blu Curves (Budaiya) Ez Fit Sports Complex Image Spa & Leisure (Sheraton Hotel) The Health Club (Gulf Hotel) Nautilus (Crown Plaza) Sports Club & Spa, Ritz-Carlton Al Gosaibi Gym Ghassan’s Gym (mat and private classes available) La Fontaine Centre World Beat Fitness Centre

Art of Living 3988 8760 Dessange 1771 3999 (Yoga classes offered several times a week) Bahrain Meditation Centre Bahrain 1779 5961 (Wellness Resort) Saturdays and Wednesdays. 7pm to 8.30pm, Mixed yoga classes. Sundays and Tuesdays (Ladies Only), 10am to12pm Bayoga Centre 1772 5027 Daily yoga classes, relaxing yoga and meditation for beginners and advanced students.

World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 Reiki Master And Teacher Melanie 3933 0911 offers Reiki sessions and courses or www.reikibahrain.com Anubhaa Sharma anurays@yahoo.co.in

1781 3815 1332 2200 1722 7777 1753 1666 1769 1496 1769 2378 1752 4570 1771 3000 1753 0764 1758 9380 1729 3221 1769 5911 1723 0123 1761 2576

Badminton Bapco Club Telgu Kala Samithi The Indian Club

1775 3666 1727 6300 1725 3157

Basketball EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Basketball Association

1769 2378 1774 1010

Bowling Al Bander Hotel & Resort Awali Bowling Centre Bahrain Bowling Association Bapco Club Funland Centre

1769 2378 1769 5809 1727 6134

1765 0079

Dance Bahrain Ballet Centre Indian Institute for Performing Arts Latin Dance Bahrain Sampaguita Club Sayaw Unlimited Dance Club Victoria Dance Centre World Beat Fitness Centre Profiles Fitness Centre Pineapple

1769 3232 1723 1717 3967 6349 3910 6589 3982 7096 3987 6215 1761 2576 1772 7766 1771 2000

Football Al Ahli Sports Club Al Hala Sports Club Bahrain Rugby Football Club British Club Dilmun Club EZ Fit Sports Complex Arsenal Soccer School

1727 7712 1734 2182 1769 5809 1772 8245 1769 2986 1769 2378 1756 1615

Golf Awali Club Royal Golf Club

Snooker Bahrain Snooker Association Jimmy’s Snooker and Billiards Club

Bahrain Badminton and Squash Federation The Country Club Al Bander Resort Nautilus (Crowne Plaza) The Diplomat Radisson Blu

1782 5301 1771 6147

Swimming Lessons British Club Dilmun Club Ritz Carlton Sports Club The Diplomat Radisson Blu

1753 1165 1745 0000 1778 0011 3944 4137

Martial Arts Japan Karate Association 3944 9628/3667 2204 Profiles Fitness Centre (Boxing for ladies) 1772 7766 Zen-Do 1761 1909 Bahrain Karate Centre 3947 7709 Goju Karate Club 3965 9510 World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576 Bahrain Karate-do Academy 3665 7059

124 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

1759 3593 1770 1201 1753 0764 1753 1666

Awali Riding Club 1775 6525 Saturdays to Thursdays, 7am to 7pm.

Fridays 7am to 6pm. Desert rides.

Qualified instructors

Bahrain Riding School 1769 0448 Daily rides 4pm to 6pm Dilmun Club 1769 2986 Sundays to Thursdays. 8am to 11am and 3pm to 7.30pm Shakhoora Riding School 1759 1103 Sundays to Thursdays, 8am to 12noon, 3.30pm to 7pm The Country Club 1759 3593 Fridays Horse riding in paddock, 1pm to 4pm Twin Palms Riding Centre 1759 1668

Bahrain Sailing School Coral Beach Club The Marina Club The Sailing Club The Yacht Club Aquatique - Organised pearl diving Al Bander Resort Bahrain Swimming Association Dilmun Club

1729 2313

1729 2662

Horse Riding

Watersports

Ice Skating Funland Centre

1769 5809

Art Classes Paint In Space 1762 6232 Chaoss 1759 2096 Dar Albareh 1771 3535/3906 9016 Celebrations 1759 5791 Bahrain Art Society 1759 0551 Indian Institute for Performing Arts 1723 1717 The Studio 3975 4863 Studio Ceramics 1759 9026 Things to Do 1759 0409

Drama Film-making workshops

3600 1777

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

1756 6566 1769 2378 1761 2576 1759 2096

Libraries Awali Library (BAPCO, Awali) British Club (Times vary) Iqra’s Children’s Library Muharraq)

1775 3666 1772 8245 1732 0955

1772 8245 1769 2986 1758 0001 1753 1666

1731 0252 1721 2700 1729 1527 1783 6078 1770 0677 1727 1780 1770 1201 1768 0867 1769 0926

Tennis Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561 The British Club 1722 8245 The Country Club 1759 3593 Dilmun Club 1769 2986 Gulf Hotel 1771 3000 Marina Club 1729 1527 The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666 Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561/1772 9756 Filipino Club Tennis Group 3952 7587

Bahrain Music Institute Kindermusik Bahrain Room to Rock

Al Areen Wildlife Park

1783 6116

Adhari Park

1740 7300

North of the Shaikh Isa Bin Sulman Highway Fun for all ages, includes a sports camp, groovy town, discovery village and indoor entertainment Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports

Chaoss

1759 2096 Swimming, gymnastics, dance and Taekwon-Do for children and teenagers.

Dolphin Park Corniche next to Marina Club One hour marine mammal show.

1729 3109

Funland

1729 2313

Corniche next to Marina Club Bowling and Ice Skating everyday.

Hawar Island

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

Kid’s Kingdom

Music Lessons

1775 6770 1775 0777

Go Karting/Racing Rally Town BIC Silver go-Karts (Tubli) Gulf Speed One (Seef)

Rugby

Squash

Cycling Bahrain Cycling Association

Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809 (Thurs) 4.45pm for girls; (Sun) 7.30pm for women Riffa Views Netball League 3630 6946

Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1770 1201 1775 3666 1782 2077 1775 3666 1729 2313

Cricket EZ Fit Sports Complex Bahrain Rugby Football Club SLC Grounds, Riffa Thursdays, Training 3pm to 5pm

Netball

Where To Go

1772 1999 1761 3144/3925 6904 1761 1785

Corniche, next to the Hawar reservation office A small outdoor playground. Good fun for young children. Open until late.

Magic Island Seef Mall

Play Centres Chakazoolu Indoor Theme Park www.danamall.net Chaoss Funland Centre (bowling, ice skating, pool) www.funlandcentre.com Mad Science Magic Island, www.seefmall.net My Gym, Softplay at Dilmun Club Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark www.lpodwaterpark.com

1755 8500 1759 2096 1729 2313

1759 1136 1758 2898 1756 6566 1769 0926 1784 5100

Play Groups Chaoss, Off Budaiya Highway 1759 2096 Kindermusik 3925 6904/1761 3144 Ajyaal Montessori Pre-School Mini Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (4 to 7 year olds) Musical Babies, Nadeen School 1772 8886 My Gym, Seef District 1756 6566 Rhymes & Chimes, Dilmun Club 3929 6848 Soft Play, Off Budaiya Highway 3965 3678 Sticky Fingers 3961 8340 Storytellers, British School 3912 9585 (7 to 11 year olds) Tots & Toddlers Group, 1772 8245 The British Club Wriggly Readers, British School 3912 9585 (for pre-schoolers) www.mumsinbahrain.net

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

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

Each ride costs 100 fils. Tokens available.

Soft Play 3965 3678 Future Shape Dance Studio, Garden City Every Monday and Wednesday from 9.30am to 11.30am Children under the age of six months attend for free. www.softplaybahrain.com Studio Ceramics

1759 9026 Budaiya Highway Pottery painting and more.

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

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

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

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

Currency The Bahrain Dinar (BD) is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of US$1=BD0.377 - in other words a dinar is worth about $2.65. It is a convertible currency with no restrictions on its import or export. Tip: the Saudi Riyal (SR) is also accepted

in shops for purchases at an exchange rate of BD1=SR10 (less in hotels) and you may be given Saudi money as change.

Business Hours Friday is the Islamic equivalent of the Christian Sunday. The weekend falls on a Friday and a Saturday. Most shopping malls and commercial centres are generally open seven days a week.

Listings Schools American Curriculum

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

British Curriculum

Clubs & Associations

Other Private Schools 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

Special Needs

Al Mahd Day Boarding Tel. 1779 2422 British School Tel. 1761 0920 Budaiya Preschool Tel. 1779 1491 Dilmun School (elementary) Tel. 1771 3483 KG Kids Tel. 1766 3556 St Christopher’s School Tel. 1778 8108 Sacred Heart School Tel. 1768 4367 Talent International and The Infant School Tel. 1725 2346/1777 0078

Disabled Sports Federation Tel. 1778 9191 Hope Institute Tel. 1768 0815/1768 0500 R.I.A. Institute Tel. 1771 6871 The Children’s Academy Tel. 1761 3234 UCO Parents Care Centre Tel. 1767 7717

Art Societies

Things to know Taxis are easily available in the capital, Manama, and have meters but be sure to make the driver use the meter. 99% of drivers won’t switch on the meter and will try to charge you double the legal fare. Beware!

Al Dana Nursery Tel. 1725 3541 Dana Pre-school, Riffa Tel. 1777 0180 Lilliput, Budaiya Tel. 1769 4947

Confidential Tip: BD1 per five minutes in the cab is the most you should pay for an un-metered journey. If traveling from the airport or busy taxi rank, add BD2/after midnight add BD1 to the total e.g. a 10 minute drive from the airport after midnight should cost you no more than BD5 (BD2 + BD2 + BD1= BD5). Taxis do use meters and companies may use similar rates.

Avoiding Offence

Generally speaking, very short skirts and tight midriff tops are frowned upon in public, although acceptable by hotel pools, in private clubs and on the beach. If visiting a mosque, cover the body well (women should ensure that arms and legs and hair are fully covered). Shoes should always be left outside the entrance.

Essential Info 24-Hour Pharmacies Jaffer Pharmacy Tel. 1729 1039 18, Tarfah bin Al Abid Avenue, Manama 319 Nasser Pharmacy Tel. 1774 0900 63-B, Qadisiya Avenue, Manama 332 Awal Pharmacy Tel. 1777 2023 30 Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Avenue, East Riffa 901 Muwasaa Pharmacy Tel. 1733 5666 Shaikh Mohd bin Salman Avenue, Road 205, Muharraq.

Courier & Express Delivery

Tel. 1733 0434

Tel. 1772 3636

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.

Flight Info 1733 9339 Air India 1729 6444 British Airways 1758 7777 Cathay Pacific 1722 6226 Emirates 1758 8700 Gulf Air 1733 5777 Jet Airways 1722 7114 KLM 1722 9747 Kuwait Airways 1722 3300 Lufthansa 1782 8762 PIA 1722 3808 Qatar Airways 1721 2202 Saudi Airlines 1721 1550

999 1725 3447 1779 0025 1781 2000 1782 8282 1728 8888

Telephone Helpline Intl. calls via operator Directory enquiries Directory enquiries - Intl.

Other phone enquiries Speaking clock

Charitable Organisations Alia for Early Intervention 1773 0960 Bahrain Cancer Society 3960 3489/1723 3080 Bahrain Charity Society 1729 3363 Bahrain Disabled Sports Committee 1778 9191 Bahrain Human Rights Society 1753 1822 Bahrain Red Crescent Society 1729 3171 Friendship Society for the Blind 1762 4496 Hope Institute for the Handicapped 1768 0815 Islamic Enlightenment Society 1772 0053 Lions Club of Bahrain 3908 0097 Manama Rotary Club 3939 4522 Migrant Workers Protection Society 3946 5378 Overseas Workers Welfare Admin.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Birthday parties and private group bookings possible.

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

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

3987 3357 1753 0020 1753 3558

Bridge

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

Scrabble Bahrain Scrabble League Bahrain Kannada Sangha Saturdays. 6.30pm.

Elham 1771 7441 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art 1723 0123 The Bahrain Contemporary Art Society 1772 8046

Taxis

Nurseries and Creches

Animal Welfare Al Ahli Animal Centre 1762 2102/3965 4343 BSPCA 1759 1231 Delmon Kennels & Training 3971 7609 Jassim Veterinary Centre (Sugaya) 1723 1242 Modern Animal Health Centre (Budaiya) 1759 0908 Nonie Coutts Surgery, (Manama and Saar) 1724 5515 Pet Arabia 1759 2288 Saar Kennels 1779 2064

Bahrain Bridge Club Bahrain Bridge Committee

3960 7219 3968 7190

Darts Balouch Club Sri Lanka Club

1729 2231 1729 7878

1724 2641 1727 1157

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

1772 5959 1769 0926 1776 1000 1777 6489 3965 5676

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

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

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

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

Wellbeing Kelly Armatage Inc. Offering counselling, life coaching and cognitive behavioural therapy sessions Mob: 3993 1399 Email: info@kellyarmatage.com www.kellyarmatage.com

Chess 151 181 191 100 140

Bahrain Chess Federation

1725 2133

Photography Awali Photo Society Bahrain Arts Society

1776 4468 3966 7751

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 125

News Bites What a Catch!

The annual All England Squid Championships descended into farce when poor weather meant the only catch was the winner - a tiny one centimetre long specimen. A group of 74 competitors stood for five hours on a chilly, windswept seafront hoping to catch over 100 squids of up to 2ft in length. But strong winds whipped up a heavy and murky sea - conditions that are not conducive for squid fishing. Reigning champion, Davide Thambiturai, spotted a tiny specimen on his squid jig just as he was about to cast off again. Davide, who won last year’s event with a 61cm squid, measured it at just a third of an inch long. As no other squid was caught, the microscopic creature claimed Davide the 2012 title, a trophy and a GB210 rod.

The weather-weary competitors burst into laughter and gave ironic cheers when the results were announced following the event in Brighton, East Sussex.

Bizarre

News

Out-of-the-ordinary news bits gathered by our Confidential Team from around the world.

World Record for Fastest Motorised Toilet

A stuntwoman has set a new land speed record for the fastest motorised toilet, which is, literally, a toilet on wheels!

Jolene Van Vugt was flushed with pride after she steered the contraption through some early wobbles to a record-breaking 46mph in Sydney, nearly 4mph higher than the previous Guinness World Record. Miss Van Vugt holds a host of world records, including being the first woman to back flip a dirt bike.

Lost Budgie Reunited with Owner after Reciting Address

Piko-chan, a lost budgie, was returned home after telling authorities his address and phone number. The two-year-old parakeet escaped from his cage in Sagamihara city, Japan when his owner accidentally left the cage door open. The bird ended up with authorities, where he suddenly began to recite his precise address. The adventurous budgie had escaped in the past, so the owner taught the bird his address and phone number in hopes that he would be able to find his way home in the future.

Metal Thieves Dismantle Bridge

Thieves in the Czech Republic have made away with a ten-tonne steel pedestrian bridge in the latest case of scrap metal heists plaguing the country. The metal thieves dismantled an entire bridge and about 200 metres of railway track using a crane. The gang reportedly arrived at a depot with forged paperwork claiming that the footbridge over the disused railway track had to come down. The thieves said they had been hired to demolish the bridge, and remove the unwanted railway track to make way for a new cycle route. The stolen metal is valued at around USD6,300.

126 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

Elephant Plays the Harmonica

Shanthi, an elephant at the National Zoo in Washington, is developing her musical talents by playing a harmonica with her trunk. Shanthi would tap things, flap her ears against objects to make noise, and rub her leg up and down shrubs to repeat noises. The zoo attached a harmonica to her stall after the elephant keeper noticed she was ‘musically inclined’. The keeper added that Shanthi was not prompted to play the harmonica, but rather, merely enjoyed doing so. Staff said the elephant tends to favour making music that ends in a crescendo.

The 100mph Bike – Designed in the Bath and Made from an Old Saucepan

It was dreamt up in the bath, designed on the back of a scrap of wallpaper, constructed in part from an old saucepan and put together on the kitchen table. This is the bicycle its inventor hopes will reach the improbable speed of 100mph! Graeme Obree, the former world champion cyclist, is building a new machine to mount an assault on the land speed record for pedal power. He is to make his attempt in September, on a long stretch of flat road in Nevada. After building up speed, he will cover a distance of 200 metres, timed by the International Human Powered Vehicle Association. He hopes to achieve a speed of 100mph. The current record stands at 82.8mph.

Lifestyle

Horoscopes “Life was meant to be lived, and curiosity must be kept alive. One must never, for whatever reason, turn his back on life.” - Eleanor Roosevelt

Cancer 22 June - 22 July

You are going to be a little busy this month, running around and talking all the time. On the 3rd, a creative idea at work could mean more money in your pocket. However, be cautious in saying things on the job- it could get you into hot water. On the 12th, it is important to stay centered and balanced. Engage in a short walk to combat low energy levels.

Leo 23 July - 21 August

Be cautious on the 1st to avoid an argument. You will find that you may have a very good time during this month and your parents are likely to see things your way. Be careful not to spend excessively. Money and values may be up for review at this time and you could find yourself in a bit of a revamping mood. People around you may react with resistance to those changes on the 7th and 22nd.

Virgo 22 August -

21 September You will be filled with energy this month. Your mind will probably be on money matters and how to accumulate more through your employment. On the 10th, a new idea could mean more money for you in your career. On the 12th, trust your intuition over the intuition of your friends. You will find that others see you as very powerful.

Libra 22 September

- 22 October Now is the time to reflect on the past year. Don’t get in the middle of friends and family, it will be to your disadvantage. On the 12th, you will experience conversation which others find charming. Your ruling planet Venus could draw romance to you. Good times lay ahead of the 21st. Your energy levels are at low tide.

You will find that sleep is more important after the 22nd of the month.

Scorpio 23 October

- 22 November This month should be a very happy time for you. On the 10th, you will find that a new idea may mean more money for you in your career. You find yourself having thoughts of the future and the possibilities it could bring.

On the 12th, trust your own intuition over the advice of friends. Look for surprises around the home front this month. On the 28th, parents will find you especially powerful.

Sagittarius 23 November -

21 December On the 21st and the 22nd, you will find that travel beckons and will provide lots of fun. The career sector is ablaze this month.

On the 22nd, your career becomes more important than ever. After the 27th, a lucky element enters you into the limelight.

Capricorn 22 December

- 19 January If you are looking for a vacation, now is the time.

The 4th of the month would be a great time to go out with your partner.

Coupled Capricorns can expect to have extraordinary conversations with their mate.

On the 30th, expect the re-entry of someone from your past.

Aquarius 20 January

- 18 February On the 4th, avoid an argument with your partner.

Your key focus this month is the family budget. You may surprise yourself when it comes to juggling the checkbook and financial responsibilities. On the 12th, a creative idea could bring you more money on the job front. Avoid spending, as what you purchase, you will end up being dissatisfied with.

Pisces 19 February

- 20 March Problems or old grievances could surface and you will have to deal with them.

Behind-the-scenes activities could be a little confusing on the 4th or the 7th. This month may bring forth good times especially on the 12th and 22nd. Take all precaution to avoid a battle of the sexes.

Aries 21 March - 19 April

This is a month to remain calm and keep your perspective, especially around the 6th. On the 12th of the month, you will find that you are experiencing wonderful dreams. Mind what you say this month, especially around the 22nd. Do not participate in the battle of the sexes as you will come out the loser.

Taurus 20 April - 20 May

An interest on the job could sweep you off your feet on the 4th, but it can fall apart just as quickly. Pay attention to your inner inspiration, as it brings ways to increase your income around the 12th. Romance is all over you this month. On the 18th, you will find that you have added sex appeal. On the 23rd and the 26th, be particularly cautious not to get in the way of family or friends.

Gemini 21 May - 21 June

On the 4th, creative thinking is what you do best and you will thoroughly enjoy the day. Do not jump to conclusions. On the 12th, be especially careful not to let your partner manipulate you with words. Think things through carefully before beginning. On the 28th, turn your thoughts inward.

July 2012 | Bahrain Confidential | 127

Opinion

Personal Views from KSA

by Mohammad T. Al Rasheed deusvolt@hotmail.com

Summer Heat Mohammad Al Rasheed provides a philosophical take on the long, hot Arab summer …

H

ot summer again. Not climatically, that is no news to us, is it now?

No, I am talking about Arabs: Arab affairs, Arab self-mutilation, selfhate, self- destruction, indeed, Arab everything.

Historically speaking, summers tend to be murderous for all humanity, especially the months of August and September. Two World Wars started in summer. Saddam’s invasion of Kuwait happened in the scorching month of August. And just about everything in between happened during the months of summer, least of all the Hiroshima bomb and the death of Diana. I put those two events together just because one of my friends never stops reminding me that the two events mean the same to him.

The past fifty years in the long history of the Arabs has managed to reach levels of internecine hate and anger that was not even matched by the similarly ‘tightly linked nations’ of Medieval Europe. As we watch what is happening in just about any corner of the Arab world we see things that are beyond belief. How on earth do these people call each other ‘brothers’ and act the way they do towards one another?

Some academics, be they historians, economists, sociologists or belly-dancers, try to point out that while the Arab peoples are indeed closely linked, the Arab leaders (as is the norm at such levels) are blood enemies/brothers. Well yes, but this is somewhat wanting in providing explanation and satisfaction. If you want comfort, you do not study History or Philosophy. The

first offers ‘facts’ the latter purports to offer ‘explanation.’ Enter (center stage) Religion.

Of course, under the guise of ‘comfort’ we get nothing but blood and deferred rewards, while those who peddle it gather power and money.

As the summer months progress and we see this feeble edifice called the “Arab World” crumble around us, one must simply wonder at this inherent folly. Of course Europe is not a harmonious house, nor is Asia a single entity. Indeed, even the USA has some states that thoroughly dislike

personal name-calling, is the hallmark of our days and nights this long summer. Against whom? Each other of course. Meanwhile, thousands die in broad daylight, millions are out of work, more millions are just about starving, and the world marches on while we march in situ if not in regression.

One wonders why ... I found something in History that might shed some light on this madness. Most of us will remember the venerable King Henry II (the one who murdered Thomas Beckett), his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine (the one who went on a crusade dressed as an Amazon with her breast showing), their three children: Richard the Lionhearted (enough said), John of Robin Hood fame, and their third son Henry. Their history is really very interesting (highly recommended summer reading) and has just about all human folly packed in one family.

Henry, the middle son, when asked why he could not be at peace with his family, smugly said, and I quote, “Do you not know that it is our proper nature, planted in us by inheritance from our ancestors, that none of us should love the other, but that always, brother against brother and son against father, we try our utmost to injure one another?’

One would be hard pressed to find comfort in these words, but, as I said before, History and Philosophy do not attempt to comfort, but one might find a vaporous explanation. Is the Arab nation destined to such fate? Any sane person would think so.

Unfortunately, no one, around me at least, is a ‘sane’ Arab, including myself

“It is our proper nature, planted in us by inheritance from our ancestors, that none of us should love the other, but that always, brother against brother and son against father.”

128 | Bahrain Confidential | July 2012

other, but at least the armies are securely slammed in their barracks and the rhetoric is never beyond yellow on the alert scale of things. We of course, have to be different.

More than a decade into the Twenty First Century, we still behave with the mentality of tent and goat.

The Arab Spring miraculously skipped two seasons and went into the ‘winter of our discontent’ - within the space of one season. For the love of God, even fly eggs don’t hatch this quickly. Arms, money, hatemongering and the oil-revenues used to setup media outlets that have nothing better to do than fan hate and discord, and even

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