Bahrain This Month - September 2011

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

September 2011 ~ Vol. 15 ~ Issue 9 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Enigmatic Entrepreneur

Omran Al Mosawi

Featured This Month: Youth Festival AW 11 Fashion Nestlé Talent Contest HAPPENINGS ­ ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV

Issue 169

Contents September 2011 Cover Story:

134 Changing Fashions As the seasons change, so we are invited to upgrade our wardrobes with the latest fashion styles and trends. We take

23

a look at some options from the likes of H&M.

Happenings: Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of September 2011:

56

28

23 Youth Festival: Encouraging communication through interaction 32 Demi McLeod: Art in an instant!

34 Dream Makers: Helping youngsters fulfil their ambitions 36 Peace Day: Promoting ideas for a better world 40 Ball Over Head: Volleyball season ready to go 23-40 Calendar: Events during September

Personality:

56 Enigmatic Entrepreneur To take advantage of the opportunities afforded to us during our lifetime requires us to grasp them as they unfold, so says local entrepreneur Omran Al Mosawi.

62

60

Business:

62 A Quantum Shift Joe Tawfik aims to change our perspective about the way we conduct business as he seeks to expand the business process outsourcing firm he runs throughout the region.

64 Enduring Interest

64

141 Bystander At BTM we spent most of the month enjoying the delights or Ramadan, attending multiple iftars and ghabgas; there is no doubt that this is one of the best ‘social’ periods in the year, catching up with friends and colleagues. We also witnessed the opening of a new café that specialises in desserts and attended puppet and Barbie shows for the kids.

Seeing your way through turbulent times with confidence and resolution is often the hallmark of a successful business.

Kuah Boon Wee is up for the challenge.

66 The Importance of Planning Bahrain’s family businesses have played a significant role in the development of the Kingdom. Khalid Kanoo talks about the challenges and opportunities they face.

BTM September 2011 5

24 / Do 7 ser Co cume vice offi llecti nts i Car ces n ng do ssued Do go de o lon cume at yo aut cum liver ger n nts ur d ho ent ies ece from esk rize s c a d b erti t any ssary bni y re fied tim gul an e ato d rs

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Issue 169

Contents September 2011 Destination Report:

78 A Treasure Trove Copenhagen allows you to enjoy all the cultural and heritage

78

attractions found in other major European cities, without having to travel to a ‘big’ city to do so.

Downtime:

112

109

81 Frozen in Time: The curse of being 27 years-old 82 Gadgets: Ahead of the game 84 Voice Box: Opposites who don’t attract 86 Young Achiever: Hana Tawfeeqi 88 Music: Battling your roots 90 Computer Games: Buzzing the republic 91 DVDs: Limitless codes 92 Websites: Virtual photography 93 Movies: The Smurfs in love 94 Sat TV: Valentine’s glee

Motoring: 105 Compact Value: Kia Picanto 109 Showcase: Nissan Juke

Dining: 111 Mei & Yu: Cosy dining on Amwaj Islands 112 Happenings: Changing chefs and menus 115 Showcase: Thai festival at the Mövenpick

126

134

After Dark: 125 Bushido: DJ nights and parties 126 Happenings: A return to action 129 Showcase: New bands at Ramee hotels

Showcase: 133 What’s New: Organic elegance 134 Marketplace: Latest products and services 32

34

42

36

148 149 150 151 152

Listings WIN WIN Tarotscope AD Index Last word BTM September 2011 7

The team

Bahrain This Month September 2011

Publisher and Managing Editor George F. Middleton Publishing Director David M. Robertson Editorial queries: editor@redhousemarketing.com Editorial Consultant Dr. Paul Balles Assistant Editor Alison Coldridge Staff Writers Elma Bartholomew, Wafa Ebrahim Abdulla, Maryam Toorani

Dear Readers,

Contributors James Claire (dining) Bystander Editor Anil Ravi Shankar

As we say goodbye to another Ramadan and another summer, our attention turns to the upcoming elections this month and implementing the actions emanating from the National Dialogue. It does, though, strike me that to get our little island back on track we all need to think a little bigger and smarter than we might have done in the past.

To compete effectively in the modern world requires us to recognise that history has regularly demonstrated that fortune favours the brave. A number of our articles this month highlight not just the benefits but also the challenges, as we seek to increase the size of our ‘cake’.

Omran Al Mosawi has built a niche for himself as a self-styled entrepreneur and venture capitalist. He’s recently seen the fruits of his risk-taking with the sale of a stake in a venture in which he invested to a major pharmaceutical multinational; he also explains that aside from seeing opportunities, you have to seize them as well.

The Kanoo family has a long-established presence on the island; Khalid Kanoo talks to Bahrain This Month about a recently completed study on family businesses in the Kingdom. One of the main conclusions is that Bahrain family businesses appear to be behind the curve, when compared to regional counterparts, on such issues as seeking a public listing.

Adding depth to our local stock market is more than just an individual matter for business owners; it’s also a national sine qua non if we are to deliver the necessary investment to boost the local economy. Equally challenging is the notion of cloud computing, that offers imaginative options for a resource constrained economy such as Bahrain’s.

It is, however, a business opportunity that Joe Tawfik, the CEO of business outsourcing company Silah Gulf, believes is full of potential, both locally and regionally. Moreover, seizing an opportunity can occasionally be an awkward exercise, as Kuah Boon Wee, of Singapore-based MTQ, notes. He’s had plenty of explaining to do back home as to why he’s investing here given the events that occurred earlier this year.

The common thread between all of these business executives is a simple perspective: a capacity to see the bigger picture and not to be deterred by bumps that might occur along the way.

Having the vision to grasp the future with both hands ultimately allows us to continue to enjoy the great way of life that the Kingdom has to offer.

Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Dalal Al-Sabbagh, Romeo San Miguel, Rodolfo A. Reyes Jr. Staff Photographers Shankar Kunhambu, Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Sales Manager Mayukh Majumdar Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos Circulation Fawaz Al Balooshi Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Rafeeq Mohammed, Gopal Arul Kumar, Epegenio Tempra Jr. Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

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YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

September 2011 ~ Vol. 15 ~ Issue 9 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Enigmatic Entrepreneur

Omran Al Mosawi

Featured This Month: Youth Festival AW 11 Fashion Nestlé Talent Contest HAPPENINGS ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV

8 September 2011 BTM

George F. Middleton Publisher and Managing Editor email: george@bahrainthismonth.com

Cover

Cover Picture: Autumn/Winter 2011/12 collections are now in store; a season of change, exemplified by the creations of H&M.

bystanderthismonth

Thai Queen’s Birthday HE Vichai Virasirikul, Thai Ambassador and the Royal Thai Embassy hosted a reception at the Thai Embassy to celebrate the 79th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand. As part of the celebration, exhibits and information on Her Majesty's activities was displayed. The reception was attended by members of the Thai community & other guests

HE Vichai Virasirikul & Visal

Tuktuk, Jaruk & Chuchat

Witchu, HE Vichai Virasirikul, Panee & Nuttapat

Noiy, HE Vichai Virasirikul & Taqi

Adirek & Likiht

Sara, Thatree, Witchu, HE Vichai Virasirikul, Visal, Panee, Nuttapat & Pop

Panee, Shukri & Chanakan

Karn, Likhit & Arun

HE Vichai Virasirikul with embassy officials & guests

10 September 2011 BTM

Nuttapat & Sirirak

Jetnipat, Jak & Lek

Shameer, Mahmoud & Pop

Lita & Lila

Piramayth, Narvpon & Jarun

Wilai, Pornfen & Noi

HE Vichai Virasirikul & Sara

CDR Cherd, Capt Warapart & Capt Wichmu

Throan & Suriya

bystanderthismonth

Ajoor Family Majlis In keeping with the spirit of Ramadan a number of diplomats, friends and well wishers visited the Ajoor Majlis in Janabiya, all through the Holy Month

HE Corazon Yap Bahjin, Philippines Ambassador, Adel Alsoumi, Shaikh Rashid Al Khalifa, Abdulla Bahlool, Nabeel Ajoor & Shaikh Miqdad

Syed Fakhri Al Alawi & Shaikh Jaffer

HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho'ala

Nabeel Ajoor, Shaikh Abdulla Al Khalifa, Shaikh Khalifa bin Sultan, Hassan Kamaal & Ahmed Ajoor

Nabeel Ajoor, Jalil Al Ansari, Khalid Kanoo, Khalid Almoayed & Ahmed Ajoor

HE Jauhar Saleem, Pakistani Ambassador, 3rd from right with Nabeel Ajoor & VIPs

Tariq Ajoor, Ahmed Ajoor, Stephanie Williams, Sabit Buali & Waleed Mahmood

HE HE Vichai Virasirikul, Thai Ambassador, Nabeel Ajoor & Stephanie Williams

HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, Fuad Kanoo & Mohammed Ajoor

Mohammed Buflasa, Shaikh Rashid & Shaikh Hamad Al Khalifa

Nabeel Ajoor, with HE Hideo Sato, Japanese Ambassador, 4th from left, HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador, 5th from left & VIP guests

12 September 2011 BTM

Abdul Aziz Al Basam

bystanderthismonth

Faisal Jawad Majlis Faisal Jawad played host to number of well-wishers and friends all through the Holy Month of Ramadan at his Majlis in Adliya

Hamza Al Basri, Fawad Al Shakar, Faisal Jawad & Faraj

Abdulaziz, Hassan Jawad & Abbas Hussain

Abdulnabi Daylami & Faisal Jawad

Jaffer, Yousif & Khalid

Hussain & Ahmed

Othair & Jameel

Faisal Jawad & Ali Mubarak

Sayed Abbas & Ameer Jawad

Sayed Mustafa Al Alawi & Faisal Jawad

Hameed Jawad

Jawad M. Jawad

Zayani Family Majlis Hamid & Khalid Al Zayani along with members of the Zayani family played host to a number of VIP guests who visited the Zayani Majlis in West Riffa during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Konstantinos Pallikaropoulos & Khalid Al Zayani

Shaikh Salman Sager Al Khalifa

Zayed Al Zayani & Shaikh Mohammed Al Khalifa

Khalid, Adam, Rashid & Rashid Al Zayani

14 September 2011 BTM

Hamid Al Zayani & Steve Harrison

Salah Dabwan

Haitham with Abdulrahman Al Zayani

Mustafa Al Kooheji

Tareq Wafa & Khalid Al Zayani

Mohanned Al Anni & Nawaf Al Zayani

Abdulwahab Al Zayani & Jalil Al Ansari

Isa Al Kooheji

“To book a Smart Card appointment, call us.”

You can now reserve an appointment for the issuance of your Smart Card by calling us on 8000 8001. eGovernment’s National Contact Center also provides quick and easy access to information on all eGovernment eServices and Channels.

We’re glad to serve you.

bystanderthismonth

Othman Sharif Majlis A number of well-wishers & friends visited the majlis of Othman Sharif & Brothers in Arad during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Hassan

HE Salman bin Hindi, Muharraq Governor & Othman Sharif

Waleed Sharif & Nabeel

Ahmed Ahmed & Juma

Ali, Hassan, Hassan & Abdulrahman

Ibrahim

Ahmed Salman

Dr Jaffar & Dr Jameel

Khalid & Abdulrahman

HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador & Othman Sharif

Waleed Sharif, Abdul Elah, Abdulelah Al Qassimi & Othman Sharif

Mohammed Jalal & Sons Majlis During the Holy Month of Ramadan, the Jalal family played host to a number of friends and well wishers at the family majlis in Adliya

Mohammed Shehabi & Jalal Mohammed Jalal

Abdul Wahab & Samer Al Majali

Jalal Mohammed Jalal & Akram Miknas

Khalifa & Sami Jalal

Hassan & Mohammed

16 September 2011 BTM

Konstantinos Pallikaropoulos & Ahmed

Ahmed Jalal & Mohammed Salahuddin

Abdul Rahman, Ahmed Jalal & Abdul Aziz

Fahad Jalal

Rashad Janahi Majlis During the Holy Month of Ramadan, a number of family members, friends and wellwishers greeted Rashad Janahi at his majlis in Nabi Saleh

Essam Janahi, HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador & Rashad Janahi

Ali Janahi & Abdul Hussain Dawani

Ismail Janahi

Hemant Patel & Dr Praful Vaidya

Samer Al Majali & Ali M. Janahi

Walid Isa & Dr Ali Follad

Sameer Hamed & Jamal Mayouf

Abdulla Janahi

Muien Naser & Ahmed Nass

Emad Nesnas & Dr Haider Majali

Raed Al Haddad & Khalid Al Mahmood

Bushehri Mohamed & Jubran Abdulrahman

Rashid Ebrahim & Abdul Hakeem Motawa

Stephen Seche Majlis ChargÊ d’Affaires Ambassador Stephen Seche hosted a majlis on during the Holy Month to celebrate Ramadan and the friendship between the United States and Bahrain. Senior government officials, Members of Parliament, Shura Council members, journalists, and prominent political, business, and civic personalities attended the event

Abdulwahab Al Hawaj & Kelly Diiro

Talal Al Absi & Abdulrahman Al Rayes

Samer Al Majali & Stephen Seche

Chinn & Taylor

Abdul Hameed & Isa Al Kooheji with Brad Niemann

Waleed Sharif & Shaikh Salah Al Jowder

Ali Al Jasim

Stephen Seche & Jawad Y. Al Hawaj

Cameron, Aaron, Shana & John

Dr Yousef Mashal

Dr Abdulla Al Hawaj

Donovan

BTM September 2011 17

Choose your network, keep your number Your phone number is important. All your loved ones, friends and colleagues know you by it. Previously, when you changed networks you couldn’t take your number with you. But things have changed. Now you can choose whichever network suits your lifestyle and still keep your number. For information on how to port your number simply visit www.ilovemynumber.bh and you and your number can stay together forever.

bystanderthismonth

Hassan Bokhammas Majlis During the Holy Month of Ramadan, a number of friends and well-wishers were welomed at the Majlis of Hassan Bokhammas in Juffair

A. Rahman Al Sindi & Hassan Bokhammas

Jaffer & Sayed

Khalil M. Buhijji & Mohamed

A. Karim Jabbary & Mahmeed

Jawad & Abdul Razak

Abdul Rahman & Abdul Aziz

Yousif, Khalil, Abdulla & Hassan

Habib, Ali & Mohammed

Fathi & Yousuf

Abdulrahman & Abdul Aziz Bokhammas

Y.K. Almoayyed Group Ghabga Y. K. Almoayyed Group's senior managers hosted a ghabga for members of the media and invited guests at the Gulf Hotel Tamadan tent last month

Rohit, Rahul, Sandeep Mathur & George

Abi, Jeevan, Ani & Sherif

Rita & Dalila

Simi & Sethu

Sandeep Mathur with members of the media

Zuhair

Rohit & Vinod

Abhitab

20 September 2011 BTM

Abbas

Juhi, Rakesh & Natasha

Sandeep Mathur & Sethu with guests

bystanderthismonth

Indonesian Independence Day Celebrations The Indonesian Embassy in Bahrain & Agus Salim, Charge D'Affaires, hosted a reception to celebrate the 66th anniversary of Indonesia's Independence. The event held at the Embassy was attended by Embassy staff and members of the Indonesian community

Agus Salim, Sukma Salim & Zahra Adira Salim

Mr & Mrs Sahlani Abdurahman

Rina Fikriansyah, Sukma Salim, Darmawati Khaerul & Endang P. Sahlani

Agus Salim & Sukma Salim

Mr & Mrs Yahya Anton Samira

Mr & Mrs Agus Mahrudin

Mr & Mrs Agus Salim with diplomatic staffs & wives

Agus Salim with members of the Indonesian community

Mr & Mrs Khaerul Anwar Bratawijaya

Mr & Mrs Rifqi Fikriansyah

Agus Salim with Indonesian Embassy staff members

Sukma Salim with some members of the Indonesian community

22 September 2011 BTM

Agus Salim & Dadan Ramdhani

happeningsthismonth When? September 9-30 | Event? Youth Festival | Venue? Various locations

Come on You Youths Ta’a Al Shabab — which translates into English as ‘Come on Youth’ — is geared towards energising a younger generation into the world of arts and culture. This year’s event, which is held for the third consecutive year, is running under the theme of rebuilding, education and restoration.

The series of events, to held over the last three weeks of the month, hopes to narrow the gap between communities as ideas are exchanged and knowledge levels are raised through cultural interaction. This year there are five separate aspects to the event: Darayesh, We All Read, Tashkeel, Tansees and Technique.

Reading for Children The ‘We All Read’ initiative has been a feature of all three of the previous festivals, and encourages everyone to read and let their imagination go beyond traditional horizons of thought. Through reading, we can be transported to a different world, experiences and adventures that we would never have deemed possible.

One of the challenges of reading, though, is to try and get inside the mind of the author, to understand what lies beneath the surface and the messages that are being communicated.

Though a series of group sessions, those children attending the weekly Wednesday sessions, from 4pm to 6pm at the Shaikh Isa Centre, will have the chance to voice their opinions, listen to the views of others and enjoy the beauty of others’ writing.

Also this month

When? September 20 | Event? Discussion | Venue? Arts Centre

Start off the new school year with a series of youth festivities. The Ta’a Al Shabab festival aims to help to rebuild, educate and restore our society!

World days We’ve only just come back from our annual holidays, and we discover that this month contains World Tourism Day. Looks like we’re all at sea…

When? September 10 Event? Suicide Prevention Day This year’s focus is on suicides that happen within multicultural societies.

When? September 11 Event? First Aid Day Spread the knowledge of how to prevent injuries and save a life.

Literary Classic For the third consecutive year, Ta’a-Al Shabab group, in honour of the late Algerian intellectual, Mohammed Arkoun, will organise a gathering of literary critics, intellectuals and youths to discuss his experiences as a person and famous writer. The audience will travel back through time to re-enact the combination of scientific research and pure intellectual play of Arkoun, who embraced both the occident and orient in a subtle and harmonious manner.

The event delves deep into the human soul through Arkoun’s ideas to demystify the dynamics of man, without distinction as to his identity or regard to his other archaic social being. Doors open from 8pm to 9.30pm.

When? September 21 Event? International Peace Day No violence, no fights, no war; today peace takes centre stage.

When? September 27 Event? Tourism Day The theme for this year’s event is themed around ‘linking cultures’.

When? September 27 Event? Maritime Day This is one day in the year you do not want to be a pirate!

When? September 29 Event? Heart Day Despite all the advice people receive, heart disease is still a major killer.

32 x Arts & Culture - 34 x Clubs & Societies - 36 x Teens & Kids - 40 x Sports & Recreation

BTM September 2011 23

happeningsthismonth When? September 7 Event? Art exhibition Venue? Al Riwaq Gallery Colourful experiments, sculpture, pop art, mixed media will all be on display.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? September 8-30 Event? Talent show Venue? Various locations Annual talent show for budding entertainers enters its third season.

E Call 39 920-161.

When? September 9-30 Event? Youth Festival Venue? Various locations The Ta’a Al Shabab Youth Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever.

E Visit www.ta2alshabab.org.

When? September 10 Event? Animation convention Venue? Prestige Hall, Adhari Park Anime and video game lovers shouldn’t miss this unique opportunity.

E Call 39 775-095.

When? September 10, 17 and 24 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Seef Mall

Life Canvas Held every Saturday, as a collaboration between the Darayesh and Tashkeel initiatives, the ‘To be a Painting’ theme features works of art collectively, by using a pen and a ruler, to turn the large, empty canvas into a series of paintings. Created by participants, an image will be constructed through intertwined straight lines and geometric shapes.

This is an open invitation for all young people between the ages of 15-25 to explore their creativity and artistic ideas.

Doors open from 10am to 1pm.

This year, the Darayesh initiative, which literally means ‘windows’, will focus on a heritage theme. As part of this event, the Al Qusaibi Cinema in Manama has been renovated and turned into a movie theatre; it is has also the headquarters for the Ta’a Al Shabab organisers.

The project is expected to continue for two years while the initiative’s other activities aim to simplify architectural concepts

and promote design elements through a series of activities and workshops. In doing so, the aim is to popularise these activities, to become part of public culture.

Under the theme of humanisation, the Tashkeel initiative, in its second edition, touches upon the issue of cultural conditioning, to reveal how human ideas and civilisations are converted into feelings and then expressed as works of art.

Cordoba Music

When? September 12-31 Event? Art exhibition Venue? Capital Club Demi Mcleod will feature her work of the last two years.

E Call 36 425-701.

When? September 24-October 15 Event? Art exhibition Venue? Ella Art Gallery Ella Parakash pays tribute to the Kingdom’s heritage on her canvass.

E Call 17 292-815.

When? September 29 Event? Indian dance Venue? Crown Plaza Hotel Celebrate Indian dance at it’s finest with the traditional folk dance of Dandiya Raas.

E Call 39168-712.

When? October 1 Event? Charity fund-raiser Venue? Royal Golf Club Charity bazaar for breast cancer kicks off Think Pink activities.

E Call 36 603-069.

24 September 2011 BTM

Finding Oneself Featuring Algerian novelist Wassini Al-Aaraj, the event will be an open discussion of the writer’s new book, The Prince’s Novel. Al-Aaraj ventures into a sea of uncertainty in order to grasp answers as the main character, Prince Abdulqader, explores his personality in a quest to discover his and others’ humanity.

He dismissed mythology and prophecy, surfing quite simply in the haziness that surrounds the boundaries between dreams and the reality of the real world. In this beautiful novel, young readers will try to discover the realm of this prince, embrace his thoughts and get acquainted with man in all his conditions. Doors open from 8pm to 9pm.

When? September 16 | Event? Music show | Venue? Art’s Centre

When? September 21 Event? Peace Day Venue? Shaikh Salman Centre Join the Rainbows for Kids to celebrate peace and prosperity.

E Call 17 345-090.

When? September 15 | Event? Book discussion | Venue? Seef Mall

When? September 17 Event? Exhibition opening Venue? World Beat Café Meriel Cooper Wallace showcases her latest watercolour paintings.

E Call 17 612-576.

Music is yet another form of an art and the Cordoba band brings us the sounds of Andalusia, in Spain, and the aroma of the east into one melodic mix. Offering a breath of fresh air into the Kingdom’s music scene, Cordoba was established in 2006.

They play a mix of flamenco, jazz, latin jazz and gypsy music, bringing a different sound from that normally heard on the island. The band has been invited to play at many concerts, parties and small events since their inception and have built up quite a large fan base.

The band consists of Rashid Matar on guitar, Isa Alshumali on bass, Ahmed Beble on the conga, Zakaria Alshaikh on bongos and Ahmed Mohammed on Cajon.

Faisal Alansari is the vocalist and Mohammed Alorayed controls the sound of Cordoba. If you’re a fan of exotic dance and music then don’t miss this concert; doors open from 7pm.

BAHRAIN : Bahrain City Centre | Isa Town| Seef Mall ABU DHABI : Abu Dhabi Mall | Al Wahda Mall| Madinat Zayed Shopping Center |Marina Mall | AL AIN : Al Jimi Mall | Bawadi Mall | DUBAI: Al Ghurair City | Arabian Center | Burjuman Center | Dubai Festival City | IBN Battuta Mall |Mall of the Emirates | Mirdiff City Center | Reef Mall |The Dubai Mall (Signature Label) | The Dubai Mall GF | Up Town Mirdiff |SHARJAH: Mega Mall | Sharjah City Center | OMAN: Al Arami Muscat | Muscat City Center QATAR: Doha City Centre | Hyatt Plaza | KUWAIT : The Avenues CHARLESKEITH.COM

happeningsthismonth When? September 9 Event? Opening ceremony Venue? Bahrain Fort Museum Enjoy a free theatre screening in celebration of the start of the festival.

E Visit www.ta2alshabab.org.

When? September 10 Event? Recital Venue? Arts Centre Three writers share their love for their nation through poetry.

When? September 12-26 Event? Book reading Venue? Seef Mall Meet for a discussion on all things related to reading and books.

When? September 10 | Event? Animation Convention | Venue? Prestige Hall, Adhari Park

Night of Animation One of the Gulf region’s premier anime events, animania, is back in town for the second time to give video game and Japanese animation fans a night to remember. The convention will provide all animation addicts with an evening to unleash their inner-anime while taking part in great activities alongside other fanatics.

Promising to be bigger and better than it’s 2010 counterpart, the convention’s main activity this year will be the ‘cosplay’

contest where audiences will dress up as their favourite anime/ video game character. Towards the end of the event those willing to take the stage and display their outfits in front of the audience and a panel of judges, from which the winner will be chosen as Bahrain’s top cosplayer.

Gaming tournaments, a scavenger hunt, karaoke, an art gallery and a contest for animation and video game skills will be the other highlights of the night. Additionally, the popular movie hall from the inaugural event will return in an improved form where the latest in anime cinema will be displayed as well as playing host to lectures by prominent individuals from the animation and gaming industry. E Call 39 775-095.

When? September 14 Event? Exhibition Venue? Seef Mall Egyptian artist Wael Darweesh talks on formative art and photography.

When? September 15 Event? Novel discussion Venue? Seef Mall Join Wassini Al Aaraj to venture into the world of his prince’s novel.

When? September 23 Event? Open discussion Venue? Seef Mall Role of social media and the impact its rumours generate.

When? September 27 Event? Poetry Venue? Arts Centre Younis Salman recites poems and patriotic literacy epics.

When? September 28 Event? Literature launch Venue? Seef Mall Group of youths launch their poetry collections and novels.

26 September 2011 BTM

Creating Awareness Sellabrations’ 1st Charity Bazaar will be held in conjunction with the breast cancer awareness month and in collaboration with Think Pink Bahrain (TPB). It will be held from 10:30am to 10:30pm on October 1, with a percentage of the proceeds donated to TPB, in addition to the money collected from the donation box.

The bazaar will include established and home-based businesses; TPB will be displaying their merchandise for sale, with products including tops, polos, mugs, stickers and broaches.

Sellabrations is a social media-based business offering products that create presence and are also ‘entertaining’, with a variety of imported products and home-made treats. E Call 36 603-069.

When? September 29 | Event? Dance festival | Venue? Crowne Plaza Hotel

When? September 20 Event? Tribute/discussion Venue? Arts Centre Pay tribute to the late Arab literary great, Mohammed Arkoun.

When? October 1 | Event? Charity fund-raiser | Venue? Royal Golf Club

When? September 17 Event? Art seminar Venue? Arts Centre Seminar discusses human art as an experimental portrayal of modern art.

Dandiya Dress Go ethnic this month and dress up in your finest traditional attire, as the Dandiya Raas festivities come to town.

“It reflects the traditional culture of India and also brings the mood of festivals and celebrates them in a very enthusiastic way,” says event organiser, Deepti Sanjay. “The participants are not just the viewing the event; they are also participants who get on stage and perform as well. Everyone will feel that they are part of the occasion.”

Deepti hopes to attract up to 3,000 guests from the different communities in the Kingdom — so make sure to buy your ticket well in advance! E Call 36 911-120.

happeningsthismonth When? September 8-30 | Event? Talent show | Venue? Various locations

Searching for Stars Bahrain’s favourite multitalent show is back and hungry to scout out the island’s hidden Mozarts and Houdinis!

28 September 2011 BTM

If you are looking to showcase your talent to the world, win US$2,000 in cash, release an official record and gain an intensive two-month marketing contract, then enter the Nescafé Show ‘Em What U Got talent content, taking place this month.

The talent show is being held for the fourth successful year, and is the Kingdom’s first-ever nationwide search for talent.

Open to all, the show encourages singers, dancers, poets, performers and the like to join in; there are no age, gender or nationality restrictions.

The show’s pre-screening auditions will take place at Mayan Lounge, Pars International Hotel on September 8, 9, 15 and 16 and at Alliance Française on September 22 and finally at Barcode, City Centre Hotel in Manama on September 29 and 30.

There will also be auditions at selected universities and schools.

Public performances take place at Virgin Megastore, in Bahrain City Centre, on a every week on Thursday and Friday.

Those contestants who survive the first round will progress to the eliminations stages on October 27 and 28, and then the semi-finals, at the Bahrain Cultural Hall, on November 4. The final itself takes place on November 11.

“In Bahrain, we need to give the opportunity and chance to everyone who has the talent and art to perform and to expose them to the outside world,” says Zuhair Ali of Nestlé Bahrain, the organiser of the talent contest. “I love to see our local talent spread their wings and to promote Bahrain’s name; that’s why these kinds of events are important for the people.”

The talent show has succeeded in previous years by delivering some memorable nights to the audience, and even kick-starting some careers. This year is expected to be even more extravagant than ever with more stages, longer days and a greater number of participants, from both Bahrain and around the region.

“We’ve been receiving a lot of calls and emails from contestants outside of Bahrain, of different nationalities, wishing to participate and we are expecting a huge turnout,” adds Zuhair.

Singing, dancing and musical instruments took up an astounding 85 per cent of the total performances over the years according to the show’s database. But the organisers are hoping to get a more diverse range of performers this time including magic shows, speed drawing and any other talent that will blow the ‘hats’ off the judges.

This year’s judging panel includes Shawqi Al Zayani, from Zayani Cultural and Commercial Bureau, Victoria Shaban, from the Victoria School of Dance, George F. Middleton, chairman of Red House Marketing and publisher of Bahrain This Month, and Zuhair Ali of Nestlé.

Performers will be judged on talent execution, personality, showmanship, stage presence and audience rapport. Through the contest Nestlé aims to create a platform from which those youngsters with exceptional talent can explore their dreams.

E Call 39 920-161.

happeningsthismonth When? September 27 | Event? Motivation seminar | Venue? Crown Plaza Convention Centre BAHRAIN INSTITUTE OF HOSPITALITY AND RETAIL

Disciplined for Life Bob Urichuk

If you want to be ‘the Author of your future’ and have a map of the directions you are taking in life — then don’t miss ‘Disciplined for Life’ seminar this month.

On September 27 at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain Hotel, you can take charge of your life by attending a motivational seminar. The seminar, hosted by Bob Urichuk the writer of You Are the Author of Your Future, will teach and assist you on how to change and improve your life.

The workshop will be divided into two parts; the first of which helps with the process of selfdiscovery and self-understanding. The second will consider part one and lets you crystallise all your dreams into an action plan.

With the lecture you will be able to understand what it is to be successful, know your rights as a human being and how to demonstrate them, know yourself and others, understand what it takes to become a leader and create winners, along with a long list of achievements you would want to overtake. This seminar is appropriate for everyone, from presidents, managers, to frontline service staff.

Bob Urichuk has been recognised as an international expert and named consummate speaker of the year back in 2000, which he received a Platinum Speaker Status for. He has shared his thoughts and motivated people all over the world in over 1,000 cities spread across 25 countries.

The event is sponsored by the Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail (BIHR).

Bahrain Institute Director Nigel Viegas stated that BIHR provides programs of study in Business Management, Hospitality, Tourism, Retail, IT, Corporate Training fields and offers the highest quality education & training, meeting internationally recognised academic standards and industry requirements.

E Call 17 698-720.

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Passion For Dessert Cafe Opening An opening ceremony was held to mark the launch of Passion For Dessert Cafe at the Seef Mall New Extension last month. HE Ali Saleh Al Saleh, Shura Council Chairman attended the event

Ehab, HE Ali Saleh Al Saleh, Ibrahim & Yousif

Basima, Enham, Dana & Eman

30 September 2011 BTM

Ehab & Ayaat

Ayaat, Ehab, Yousif Al Saleh, Rawan, Enham & HE Ali Saleh Al Saleh

Nada, Mariam, Mariam, Rawan & Aysha

Ayaat, Layla & Mariam

Zainab, Shooq, Mohammed & Fatima

Fatima, Lujain & Fatoom

Ibrahim & Abdulla

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happeningsartsculture

Steady Art

Australian artist, Demi McLeod will showcase 20 canvases painted over the last two years.

Titled ‘Gradual Instant’, the exhibition will be her second solo exhibition showcasing her work here. The artist chose the title because of the long period of time she had been working, the mediums she has used and also because she likes to work on a number of paintings simultaneously.

“Often one of the first things I do is put on washes of colour using acrylics, which sets the mood for the painting. Then I begin to build up layers using oil glazes, often working back into those layers. Oil paint needs at least two or three months to cure before you can do that, so it’s a gradual process,” she explains.

Born in Zimbabwe, Demi lived in Malawi, England, Luxembourg, South Africa and Australia before settling in Bahrain. E Call 36 425-701.

When? September 24-October 15 | Event? Art exhibition | Venue? Ella Art Gallery

When? September 12-31 | Event? Art exhibition | Venue? Capital Club

Bahrain on Canvas Featuring renowned Bahrain-based Indian artists’ latest work, the Bahrain in Fusion exhibition aims to portray in a new dimension.

“Bahrain is my birthplace and I would like to showcase the traditional heritage of Bahrain, which I have experienced since my childhood, through my colourful works of art,” says the artist, Ella Parakash.

Traditional jewellery, Arabian dresses, coffee pots, dhows, old souk, pottery and sunsets will be displayed in different techniques using acrylic and mix media on canvas. E Call 17 292-815.

When? September 17 | Event? Exhibition opening | Venue? World Beat Café

When? September 7 | Event? Art exhibition | Venue? Al Riwaq Gallery

Joyous Approach

Nature’s Colours Art enthusiasts can view Meriel Cooper Wallace’s vivid watercolour paintings and also get the opportunity to meet the artist. Her Kenyan childhood has left her with an intense fascination for nature, which is manifested in her paintings and her latest work, depicting plants, birds and landscapes.

She has also been influenced by Patricia Tobacco Forrester, America’s foremost watercolourist, and Shirley Trevena, a mixed media guru from the United Kingdom. The artist will be available for meet and greet sessions from 4pm to 6pm on the opening day of the exhibition. E Call 17 612-576.

32 September 2011 BTM

With a fun approach to contemporary art, this month’s exhibition at the Al Riwaq Gallery is entitled ‘Process and Realities’, and is part of an exhibition series that opened in June.

Colourful experiments, sculpture, pop art, mixed media and photography will be on display; a dialogue about the positives and negatives associated with our fastpaced consumer-driven lives is reflected in the artworks on display.

Most of the work derives from high schools, where art students have excelled in their approach, representation and communication of their own personal mindset.

Comments on public ambitions, trends or global environments can also be witnessed upon viewing the collection. E Call 17 717-441.

happeningsclubssocieties Dana Abdulghani (back row, first from left), with her fellow Dreams Society founders

A Dream Come True A voluntary organisation grants the wishes of terminally-ill children, helping them to enjoy their remaining time as best as possible.

34 September 2011 BTM

Sadly, there are some children whose illnesses are incurable, and all we can do is ensure they enjoy the time they have left.

The Dreams Society was established to provide a way to help children, between the ages three to 18, experience their ultimate wish, giving them a little piece of happiness. The society, located in the Bahrain Financial Harbor, was started in spring of last year by 11 young Bahraini’s who sought to start a charity unique to Bahrain.

“When we looked to see what charities were out there we saw that most charities for sick children focus on the treatment of the child, which, of course, is important. But we felt that these children need some fun in their lives away from their routine visits to the hospital. We noticed that they also had limited time to be able to achieve goals and dreams, and wanted to help them actualise their dreams,” says one of the Dreams’ founders, Dana Abdulghani.

The application process is comprehensive, as it should be. A form is filled out by the child who has a dream, the child’s parent, or guardian, and the child’s medical consultant. Dreams then has a special committee which considers all applications and chooses the child who it can help based on a number of factors, including but not limited to, the child’s age, the child’s illness and the child’s medical progression.

The dream itself is also to be assessed to make sure that it is something safe and viable for Dreams to give to the child.

Some of the dreams that the society has helped make true have included the purchase of a new laptop to play games and a digital camera to take photos on a family holiday.

“We have seven main categories of dreams. Heroes and celebrities, fun gifts, local adventure, abroad adventure, future dream job, animal dreams and others. These categories are to help define what dreams we can make a reality for the applicant children,” states Dana.

Being a non-profit charity organisation, Dreams finances itself solely through donations and fund-raising events. Anyone who wishes to donate or even volunteer can contact the society directly. Dana stresses that volunteers are welcome to help out with fund-raisers or even to help out with the dream process, whether it is in organising the dream itself or being present when the dream is made true for the child.

“Basically, we want to be able to bring a smile to the faces of children who are suffering from serious illnesses and create a wonderful memory for them and their families in making their dream come true. It is a simple yet ambitious goal which Dreams intends to reach and we welcome anyone to join us reach it!” E Call 17 211-311.

happeningskidsteens When? September 21 | Event? International Peace Day | Venue? Sh. Salman Centre

For a Better Tomorrow “Peace cannot be achieved through violence; it can only be attained through understanding,” so said notorious poet Ralph Waldo Emerson.

36 September 2011 BTM

The sentiment offered by Ralph Waldo Emerson is the foundation behind Bahrain’s Rainbows for Kids Nursery; it is what they hope to instil in our youth. International Peace Day, which falls, this month, is an opportunity to convey this message.

To mark this day last year, millions of people were active in all 192 UN member states and 28 organisations carried out 88 humanitarian activities across 31 countries. In Afghanistan alone, 50,000 children and women in 23 locations were vaccinated against all vaccine-preventable diseases.

This month, our little Kingdom will be doing its part to promote peace all around the world. Led by Christine Hasan, the Rainbows for Kids Nursery in Muharraq is organising the annual ‘One Day, One Goal Football Match’ as part of a series of matches played all over the globe. In 2010 more than 3,000 games were played in more than 200 countries.

“Last year’s match was absolutely brilliant. We held it in Shaikha Bazah Park in Muharraq. More than half the players were bare-footed and everyone ignored the lineswoman’s (me) questionable decisions while the referee’s comedic talents were very much in play. Yet it was as serious and cut throat as any match,” says Christine Hasan, principal of the Rainbows for Kids Nursery.

The match commences at 6pm, and is open to everyone, and hopes to unite people from different communities and different cultures who would never normally play together.

Rainbows will also be hosting the ‘Ambassadors of Peace Collection Tour’ which will feature artworks of children from all over the world with a theme ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth’.

The exhibition will be displayed at the Shaikh Salman Centre with free entrance for everyone. “This is part of a travelling exhibition of children’s artwork for peace. I feel very honoured that Bahrain has been invited to take part in this international initiative spreading the message that we are all engaged in promoting peace in all its shapes and forms, and we at Rainbows are very proud to be a part of it,” adds Christine.

Rainbows is also releasing doves, as ambassadors of peace, holding a peace intention circle at the nursery and planting a peace pole. “These poles, around the world, carry the ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth’ message in different languages and ours will be planted in the Rainbows’ garden. The children will also be making pinwheels for the day,” Christine says.

The United Nations began Peace Day in 1981 as a way to celebrate the efforts of so many people around the world to spread the cause of peace. E Call 17 345-090.

Stay Safe On-line Making sure our children are safe from unwanted interference while they are on-line is a social responsibility that the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority takes very seriously.

The deadline for submitting artworks for the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority’s (TRA) second edition of its annual ‘On-line Safety’ awareness campaign is on September 8. The aim of the competition is to educate children and youths about on-line safety and the responsible use of the Internet.

The TRA encourages children of different age groups to take part in any of the three categories — painting and drawing, graphic design and photography, or video and animation — to express what on-line safety means to them. At the award ceremony, to be held towards the end of September, the three winners in each of the categories will be announced; winners will receive cash prizes ranging from BD250-BD1,000.

“On-line safety has become a topic of growing concern in recent years,” says TRA general director, Mohammed Bubashait. “Today’s technology offers unprecedented access to information for many people, including children. Therefore, safeguarding the interests of children on-line has become a prime concern not only for parents but also teachers, legislators and society as a whole.”

The submission of artworks was originally set on May 9 of this year, but was postponed to allow teachers, students and parents more time to devote to the art competition following the recent unrest across the Kingdom.

“This art competition is just one of many steps taken by the TRA to promote the on-line safety,” adds Mohammed. “As a forerunner within the GCC telecom market, we take this responsibility very seriously, organising a variety of events to facilitate a safe use of the Internet.”

When? September 8 | Event? Submission deadline | Venue? TRA office in Seef

happeningskidsteens

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Ethiopian Airlines Dinner Reception Ethiopian Airlines hosted a dinner to award their top three selling agents at the InterContinental Regency.

Meaza Taye, area manager Bahrain, Ethiopian Airlines, and a number of senior managers from various travel agencies attended the dinner

Salch, Meaza Taye & Arun

Esky & Betty

Sabir of Al Malaky Travels, Meaza & Paul

Jo of House of Travels & Meaza

Mohammed & Rahul

Ebrahim, Mohammed & Faizal

Essa & Jamal

38 September 2011 BTM

Paul Clabburn, Waheed & Pamela

Emma

Vijay Menon of Dadabhai Travels & Meaza

Moosa

Rose

Pre-Screening : Sept. 8, 9, 15, 16 @ Pars Hotel | Sept. 22 @ Alliance Francais | Sept. 29, 30 @ Barcode Auditions : Oct 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 @ Virgin Megastores Eliminations : Oct 27, 28 | Semi Finals : Nov 4 | Grand Finals : Nov 11 @ Cultural Hall

happeningssportsrecreation

Ball Over Head 1919 marked the start of formal education in Bahrain; records show that the early ‘20s was also the time that the sport of volleyball was officially introduced.

Most of the school playgrounds around the Kingdom boast an outdoor volleyball court; it was through these and physical education classes that volleyball found its way to the hearts of the Bahraini youth. It then didn’t take long for members of the community to build indoor, climate-controlled courts as the island started to embrace competitive volleyball.

“Essentially, you need a net, a ball, maybe a flat surface and you are good to go,” says general secretary of the Bahrain Volleyball Federation (BVF), Faris Al Helwachi. “The minimal investment in equipment acted as a catalyst in spreading the sport around the country. Now, more than 80 years later, volleyball is one of the most-loved and played sports among Bahrainis.”

The fact that the Crown Prince Volleyball Cup is considered one of the most prestigious and eagerly awaited tournaments of the year is an indicator of the support volleyball enjoys here.

The 2011-2012 volleyball season kicks off this month with a series of youth leagues, split into three divisions which are based upon age. The season runs through to January next year. The main second division league, the Federation Cup and the first division league commence in October, November and December respectively. The New Year will also bring with it a series of volleyball cups including the youth and Crown Prince competitions.

Bahrain has also enjoyed success internationally as the sport has spread around the region. “We have participated and won several men’s and age group championships, both in Asia and the Gulf,” notes Faris. “Among the highlights over the years have been winning the 7th Arab National Team Championship and also the gold medal at the 6th Arab games.”

The Kingdom also hosted the 15th Arab clubs championship, in 1996, which was won by our very own Muharraq Club.

“To be a great volleyball player you need to be able to handle the ball with power and preciseness,” notes Faris. “Among the federation’s aims is not only to promote the game within the Bahraini youth but to also help them advance their skills with highly professional coaching and programmes. Through this we have been able to significantly increase professional standards and the level of play across the Kingdom.”

Beach volleyball The federation, founded in December 19, 1974, has equally been instrumental in promoting beach volleyball; a sport many believe is just a leisure and recreational activity.

Bahrain has played a leading role in promoting beach volleyball as a sport around the region, with the national team winning the 2008 Arab Beach Volleyball tournament.

Of course it isn’t the least bit easy to become a professional athlete in these games.

E Call 17 811-525.

When? September 17 | Event? Volleyball season start | Venue? Juffair stadium

40 September 2011 BTM

When? September 17 onwards Event? Volleyball season Venue? Juffair sports hall Volleyball fans are in for a treat as the long-awaited season returns with plenty of tournaments to view and cheer on.

E Call 17 811-525.

When? September 20-24 Event? Table tennis championship Venue? Bahrain Table Tennis Club Eagerly-awaited Gulf championship will bring avid pingpong lovers around the region a feast of intense competition.

E Call 17 729-561.

When? September 1-31 Event? Races Venue? Riffa views Watch out for a number of funfilled Bahrain Road Runners races this month; if you’re feeling fit then get involved!

E Call 36 876-876.

When? September 23 onwards Event? Rugby season Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club Catch some good old rugby every Friday this month with the Gulf Top Six and the Gulf Conference competitions.

E Call 17 695-809.

happeningssportsrecreation When? September 20-24 | Event? Table tennis championship | Venue? Bahrain Table Tennis Club court The next edition of the Gulf Table Tennis Club championship is set to bring evenings of fierce competition and great sporting action. The championship, in its 15th installment, is expected to draw crowds from around the Gulf, and will feature the top 10 Gulf clubs from Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Emirates and Qatar.

This year will be quite busy for table tennis followers; the club will soon be participating in the upcoming Asian games and Gulf Women’s Championship, running a club championship and, most importantly, hosting the World Junior Championships in November in the Kingdom. E Call 17 729-561.

Ping Pong!

When? September 23-March 30 | Event? Rugby season | Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club

This month sees the start of the rugby season, with 16 games played every Friday, covering the Gulf Top 6 competition and the Gulf Conference competition.

“Our first game of the season is always a big occasion and this year will be no different. We will be hoping for a carnival atmosphere with as many spectators as possible for support,” says Sam Wilson of the Bahrain Rugby Football Club. “The Irish Society of Bahrain will also be holding a family fun day at the Rugby Club on September 23.” E Call 17 695-809.

42 September 2011 BTM

When? September 8-30 | Event? Biathlon | Venue? Hamala Beach Resort

Back to Tackle

Increase the Pace The Bahrain Road Runners stay active even throughout the scorching summer heat. The club have organised a special Eid race to be held on September 8.

The rest of the weekly races will be held at Awali every Thursday at 5.30pm over three to five kilometre distances.

Avid athletes can also take part in a biathlon taking place on September 30 at the Hamala Beach Resort.

E Call 36 876-876.

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Batelco Media Ghabga Batelco Public Relations Department held a media ghabga during the Holy Month at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain's Al Liwan Ramadan Tent. The event was also attended by Rashid Abdulla, Batelco's chief executive

Osama Alsaad, Rashid Abdulla, Mona Al Hashimi & Ahmed Al Janahi

Mona Al Hashimi, Rashid Abdulla & Mohammed

Mayukh, David & Rami

Sayed, Ali, Hisham & Hussain

Hessa, Missam & Madeleine

Zahra & Marina

Ahmed, Eman, Noor & Hussain

Fawaz & Abhitab

Ahmed Janahi, Najaf Mohammed, Ahmed Al Gaoud & Ahmed Saif

Sree Bhat, Ashok & Vinod

Hamed, Shareef, Jayan, Subi, Ryan, Biju & Mani

44 September 2011 BTM

Charlie & Gopal

David

Yathreb, Mariam & Dalila

Mandeep & Rashid Abdulla

Maria, Fadel & Judith

Aniqa

Evelyn

Simi

Hussain, Ali & Ahmed

Mona presents a gift to Mohammed

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Gulf Air Ghabga National carrier Gulf Air hosted a Ramadan Ghabga last night for the members of the Bahrain media at the InterContinental Regency. A number of journalists representing prominent newspapers, magazines and online media gathered to meet with Karim Makhlouf, Gulf Air chief commercial officer and other members of Gulf Air senior management

Karan with Karim Makhlouf

Karim Makhlouf with members of the media

Mariam with Ahmed Al Anzoor

Karan & Marcus

Wilma, Bambi, Mayukh & Abhitab

Bless, David & Tony

Ashok & Aniqa

Wael, Katherine, Abbas & Karan

Mohamed, Karim & Yosra

Mohamed Malfouz & Mohamed Nazih

Mahmood & Sandeep

Mohammed, Ehab, Ali & Abbas

Karan, Ahmed, Karim Makhlouf, Ehab, Abbas, Abbas, Katherine & Ali

Mariam, Fatima & Suhela

Noor

Saleh & Fawaz

Gulf Air Celebrates Gergaoun With Passengers At Bahrain Airport Celebrating the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan, national carrier Gulf Air organised a Gargaoan event at the Bahrain International Airport last month.Hundreds of arriving and departing passengers were welcomed by the airline staff and cabin crew and were presented with Gergaoun bags containing traditional Arabic sweets, nuts and goodies

46 September 2011 BTM

Kids with a Gulf Air attendent

A Gulf Air employee with a young passenger

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HSBC Ramadan Ghabga HSBC held a Ramadan ghabga for staff members and their families at the Gulf Hotel during the Holy Month. The event was also attended by Patrick Gallagher, CEO of HSBC Manal Jaber, Patrick Gallagher & Mohammed Al Gamry

Ruqaya, Eman & Ayah

Nizar

Bahrooz & Shakofa

Ahmed, Mohammed & Shaima

Malti & Esra

Eman

Deeann

Hameed & Sakeena

Hassan, Kambeez, Hassan & Wael

Ameena, Rakshana & Basma

Saleem & Faisal

Safiya, Shafi, Riffat, Javeria & Sayeed

Fajer & Amal

Noor & Raheel

Sarah & Ahmed

Salah & Reem

Malti, Deeann & Anita

Amal, Batool & Balqees

Susan & Sabu

Prince, Sheena, Rosemary & Ann Marie

Javeria, Rosemary & Safiya

Sudhi & Pooja

Ali & Maha

Wafa & Aisha

48 September 2011 BTM

bystanderthismonth

K Hotel Media Iftar Party The K Hotel in Juffair hosted a media Iftar party at the hotel's Klouds Restaurant

Hamed Saqer & Mohamed Assar

Natasha, Wissam, Doreen & Cristalyn

Leslie, Rachel & Yhen

Hassan & Huda

Sameer & Azra

Armi, Elaine & Cathy

Kevin & Charbel

Salman

Vinod

Fawaz

Citibank Client Ghabga Citi Bahrain last month organised a ghabga for its clients at the Al Ghazal Ballroom in the Ritz Carlton Hotel. The bank’s clients and team attended the Ramadan ghabga

Ashraf, Abdullah, Mazin Manna, Atif & Khalid

Afnan, Noor, Kelly & Lana

Steve, Mrs Lindsay & HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador

Fuad, Akshay & Nader

Mazin Manna & Adel

Shaikh Khalid & Steve

2 Connect Ghabga 2 Connect held a ghabga for members of the media and invited guests at the Gulf Hotel's Convention Centre

Jasmeta, Aron & Charles

50 September 2011 BTM

Lubna, Fahad & Sara

Hassan, Fahad Al Shirawi, Abbas & Anton

May, Salma & Sara

Lisa & Glenn

Sofia & Zeid

Stephen & Roydon

Bob

Mansi & Shuhra

bystanderthismonth

MG 550 Sedan Launch Zayani Motors held a press conference to announce their collaboration with Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation's (SIAC) flagship brand Morris Garages (MG) and the unveiling of the 2011 MG 550 Sedan. The conference and launch was held at Zayani Motors Showroom in Ma'ameer

Rizwan Tariq, brand manager MG & Nawaf Al Zayani, managing director, Zayani Motors address the media

The 2011 MG 550 Sedan

Rizwan Tariq & Nawaf Al Zayani pose with the 2011 MG Sedan

Zayani Motors staff members

The Sofitel Bahrain Ghabga The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa held a ghabga for a number of guests during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Dr Fahad with Bert Plas, general manager

Wafaa & Bert

Wafaa, Bert Plas, Wassim & Waleed with staff members

Anne, George & Bert

Andrea & Wafaa

Philippine Basketball Legends Visit NSA The Philippine Basketball Association's (PBA) Legends, visited Bahrain to play in the 6th edition of the Bahrain-Philippines Basketball Goodwill Games last month.

During their visit the team visited NSA Bahrain, where they were greeted by Captain Enrique L. Sadsad, NSA Bahrain's commanding officer

52 September 2011 BTM

The Philippine Basketball Association's (PBA) Legends with Captain Enrique L. Sadsad, 6th from left

Gerry & Bert

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Bahrain Air Ghabga Bahrain Air held its fourth annual Ramadan Ghabga party at Elite Resort & Spa Hotel's Al Noor Ramadan Tent. The event was attended by Captain Ibrahim Abdulla Al Hamer, Bahrain Air managing director, officials from CAA, BAS, BAC and executives from the corporate community

Abdulla & Mariam

Fathma & Rabab

Prachi & Vivek

Khadeeja & Layla

Deepa, harsh & Nishant

54 September 2011 BTM

Ahmed, Hussain, Capt Ibrahim Al Hamer, A. Aziz & Jamal

Mai & Mohammed

Saithip, Elly & Budoor

Aysha & Nora

Mohammed, Naeem & Noora

Naeem & Abhitab

HE Capt Abdul Rahman Al Goud & Capt Ibrahim

Mayukh & Naeem Mahamoor

Victoria, Peter & Manju

Shaima & Samah

Maria, Shaima, Rupali, Sultana & Faten

Karthik, Ajay & Vinod

Amina, Hind & Faten

Abdulla, Isa & Ali

Reyadh Al Ansari & Capt Ibrahim Al Hamer

Sadiq

Lucy, Abdul Aziz & Mark

personalitythismonth Omran Al Mosawi

Enigmatic Entrepreneur GEORGE F. MIDDLETON Some investments have the potential to return ridiculously high multiples; of course, some will never achieve their potential. Reward, though, does not come without some pain.

Omran Al Mosawi is reflective at his mahogany desk in his wood-panelled office on the first floor of his 11-storey residential and commercial building in Adliya, modestlynamed ‘Burj Omran’. A self-made entrepreneur and father of five, he celebrated his 56th birthday last month; his dynamic energy, assertiveness and alert consciousness is clear to all who meet him.

Last month, together with his partners, he finalised one the biggest deals of his illustrious career; namely the collaboration between one of the companies he has invested in and helped fund, Enigma Diagnostics, and GlaskoSmithKline (GSK). This was the successful culmination of years of negotiation and over GBP 65 million of investment to supply Europe and major emerging markets with the Enigma machine.

Initially, this technology was funded by the UK Government, and then through Omran’s associate company, Porton Capital, together with a number of grants from the UK Government and EU Commission. Enigma’s unique ability is to undertake a DNA (r-t PCR) test from a raw sample and to deliver a result in less than 60 minutes, be it blood, urine or, uniquely, a swab.

These tests allows for cancer screening, MRSA, TB and other clinical tests, including influenza. According to Omran, the market potential value of this company, with the GSK partnership, runs into billions of dollars.

Humble beginnings Omran’s beginnings could be described as relatively modest yet comfortable as he was born into an academic, art-loving family.

His father’s father was a religious scholar and judge who

56 September 2011 BTM

founded the Jaafari Waqf (charity lands organisation) at the Bahraini Ministry of Justice some 80 years ago. Omran’s own father, who was his father’s only son and who lost his mother before his teens, was a deeply religious man who used to make a living reciting ‘Hussaini tales’, although his main passion was for writing history books and poetry. A total of 167 titles were published during his lifetime; he was the first Shia scholar to be given an overseas scholarship to study outside Bahrain (in India) by the then British protectorate.

Omran is not a coy individual by any means and explains that his motivation for success in business was mainly fuelled by his desire to provide for his extended and immediate family.

Growing up as one of 34 children meant that they did not receive either the attention or resources of many of their friends.

Having said that, many of his siblings have taken up prominent careers in specialised fields such as medicine, finance, art and design. The weekly get-togethers held at one of his houses for family and close friends are always eclectic

xxxxx We tend to invest in established companies with product lines which require funding and tweaking in order to maximum the potential value

and informal, and comprise of a uniquely diverse cross-section of Bahrain society.

In 1975, he started work as a cashier at the Gulf Hotel and then the Sheraton Hotel, before taking a business course and heading to Paris to study drama and film production at a prestigious film institute. It’s no coincidence, therefore, that today he now runs Omran Media, a film production company devoted to the creation of Ramadan TV series that are shown throughout the region.

Finding a niche After graduation, he was employed by a number of international and regional financial institutions before he met, and teamed up with a well-known investor, Harvey Boulter.

Since 2004, Omran and his associates have specialised in investing in patents developed at the UK Ministry of Defense (MoD), through Defense Science Technology Laboratories (DSTL), for military purposes. These patents are then commercialised in conjunction with private sector businesses for non-military applications under exclusive licenses, in which the MoD retains a significant stake.

Omran plainly admits that the business environment that he operates in is not for the faint-hearted investor. “In order to achieve high multiples on any investment,” he says, “you must be willing to take risks which may result, on occasion, with the total loss of your investment capital.”

Of course, nothing in life is guaranteed, and almost 25 per cent of the technologies they invested in have not been successful but, according to Omran, the remaining investments more than make up for this shortfall.

“We never invest in start-ups,” he says candidly. “We tend to invest in established companies with product lines which require funding and tweaking in order to maximise their the potential value. Even the best technologies will not see the light of day unless they receive adequate funding in a timely manner.”

Omran’s fellow investors are high-net worth individuals; he sees himself as a partner more than a financial advisor, as he always invests his own money into the same companies that he presents to his clients.

“I quit working in the equity markets in 2001,” he states.

“With no end in sight to financial upheavals, I prefer to focus on viable high-tech industrial or medical investments, where real demand exists regardless of consumer spending power and confidence.”

Lessons from experience Having witnessed a number of financial crises over the past two decades at first-hand, Omran firmly believes it is necessary to diversify your assets and to spread the risk as much as possible. He believes much of the problems encountered by many large family businesses, due to the recent credit squeeze and financial turbulence arises from using inflated real estate values to then leveraging these assets for other financial transactions.

One of his major regrets is that the unwillingness of GCC governments to shy away from investing a small part of their investments into venture capital and technology research, that could benefit the region as a whole and help them with pressing medical, environmental and social issues.

He cites his investments in DTSL as an example of what could be achieved. In a scenario reminiscent of Q’s lab in James Bond movies, upcoming opportunities from the DSTL stable include voice security, nano-technology, waterresistance products, new environmentally efficient car engines and a system that can create electricity from calm river water.

Macro realities “Many major world governments today are effectively bankrupt with corporations like Google and Microsoft sitting on more cash and assets than most of these governments,” he says.

“The West cannot continue on the same profligate path as before and printing money (quantitative easing) is simply not sustainable in the long term.”

He believes the United Kingdom government have started to tackle the issue in an appropriate manner, and that the United States will ultimately go down the same path, for the sake of economic recovery and the long-term survival of the financial system.

“Gold is closing in on US$2,000 per ounce because of all this financial uncertainty; there is no reason why it can’t go up to US$5,000 if the present economic scenario remains.”

Omran with the Enigma machine

Thoughts of home According to Omran, recent events have exposed a great divide between the two indigenous communities in Bahrain, and he sees it as his duty to produce (TV) programmes which will help build trust and understanding between different societies and cultures. He plans to do this by setting up another media company employing people from different backgrounds to deliver a unique twist to the traditional programming.

“My main message to the youngsters of Bahrain is that you have to work hard to make the most of opportunities which abound in Bahrain,” he says. “When I was growing up, we used to have to go outside to study under the streetlights because there was not sufficient lighting available at home. The youth of today have so much more opportunity and support in terms of education and facilities available to them but they have to work in order for their full potential to be realised.”

He continues, “I see it similar to a football game; you work hard for 90 minutes and during that time opportunities will arise but you have to be prepared to take advantage of the openings in order to score goals. If you keep sitting on the bench, or don’t try to take advantage of the opportunities which arise, then luck and life will simply pass you by.

“I firmly believe you make your own opportunities and every Bahraini, regardless of his origin, has more opportunities to succeed here than almost anywhere else in the world.”

The entrepreneur with various business interests spanning investments, film and production, real estate, restaurants and beauty salons should know. After all, he saw the opportunities — and took them.

BTM September 2011 57

businessthismonth When? September 25-28 | Event? Oil exhibition and conference | Venue? BIECC

Uncovering Oil and Gas The oil and gas industry seems to be constantly peaking; yet international reports indicate that the market for oil field services is still expected to grow even further.

The 17th annual conference for the Society of Petroleum Engineers Middle East Oil and Gas Show and Conference (MEOS 2011) will be held here in Bahrain during September.

The conference aims to unearth technological innovations and provide expert insights in order to maximise the recovery and discovery of oil and gas energy.

This year’s conference will see the largest exhibition and conference in its 32-year history. Key companies and leading figures will assemble from around the world to debate the current shape and the future progression of the industry. The venue, boasting 14,800 square metres of oil and gas products, will play host to a large number of the oil and gas industry’s giants including all six GCC national oil and gas companies.

Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister of Bahrain Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the exhibition will feature more than 300 exhibitors from 30 countries, and covers all areas of the upstream industry. These include exploration and production, onshore and offshore technology, transportation, geophysics, drilling and completion, measurement systems, automation and information technology, security and environmental protection.

“MEOS 2011 represents a timely opportunity for participants Also this month

to initiate business and, at the same time, serve the needs of the industry as it seeks to progress through strategic collaborations, healthy competition and technological innovations in one of the most prolific hydrocarbon regions in the world,” says Arabian Exhibition Management’s director of sales and marketing, Fawzi Al Shehabi.

The conference will shed light on the importance of workforce education and training by hosting a co-exhibition entitled the Getenergy Village. This will provide a focal point for universities, colleges and training providers to exhibit and interact with oil and gas exploration and production companies.

Across the three days at MEOS, a series of ‘Star Turn’ presentations will also be delivered by leading figures from the international education and energy industries, along with the second edition of the Middle East Prospect Exhibition (MEPEX 2011). Held under the patronage of Bahrain’s energy minister Dr Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, this exhibition provides a focused marketplace for the buying, selling and trading of oil and gas prospects and producing properties.

In addition, a high level technical conference will run this year under the theme ‘Shaping the Future of the Industry: Innovating Beyond Limits’. To provide delegates with further opportunities to learn and integrate, training courses and workshops will also be held prior to the MEOS. E Call 17 550-033.

60 x Conference - 62 x Entrepreneur - 64 x Interview - 66 x Spotlight

Building Leaders A two-day forum, titled ‘Transformational Leadership’, aims to focus on the fundamental skills required to build successful leaders. With a line-up of impressive keynote speakers from both local organisations and internationals, the event aims to challenge the mindset of leaders.

Important issues such as mentorship and coaching, both often overlooked within the Middle East region feature prominently. But it’s not just about yourself as a leader; it’s also about getting the most out of your team as you grow the business.

The forum takes place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, within the convention centre, on September 19-20.

E Call 17 552-878.

BTM September 2011 59

A Seafarer’s Tale It is about time that people took a serious step against piracy at sea. Join Bahrain as it takes its first with the rest of the world.

The General Organisation of Sea Ports (GOP) is all set to hold its second annual Bahrain Maritime Festival (BMF). Each year, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) observes World Maritime Day and focuses on a particular theme to highlight the importance of shipping safety, maritime security and protecting the marine environment.

This year, they have chosen to focus on ‘Piracy: Orchestrating the Response’. The festival held in the Kingdom will, therefore, host several exciting activities and events aimed at generating awareness amongst students, industry professionals and the general public.

Given Bahrain’s long-standing sea-based legacy and rich maritime tradition, the GOP is organising a unique week-long event with the goal of spreading knowledge about Bahrain’s role in the maritime industry and helping position Bahrain as an important player on the global scene.

Following last year’s successful launch, the theme for this year is devoted to anti-piracy actions, and focuses on the impact that such acts of armed robbery have on seafarers and their families. By drawing global attention to this issue, it will enable the IMO to focus and intensify its efforts to meet the challenges of modern-day piracy and facilitate the orchestration of a broader, global response aimed at eradicating the evil.

Photography contest Concurrently, the event will also host a kids’ carnival at Bahrain City Centre. As a part of the festivities, a photography competition, titled ‘Reflection of the Two Seas’, was launched last month. Budding photographers have the opportunity to showcase their interpretation of the rich legacy of Bahrain’s sea till September 15 with a chance to win attractive prizes.

When? September 25-29 | Event? Bahrain Maritime Festival | Venue? Bahrain City Centre

businessconference

bystanderthismonth

Mei & Yu Gourmet Evening Mei N Yu, a new restaurant serving a range of international cuisine, which has opened at the Lagoon, Amwaj Islands held a gourmet dinner and a tasting of fine vintage for a number of invited guests

George & Daystar

Ali, Paul, Fadel, Mickey, George & Nadeem

Cady & Kathy

Mark & Mark

Andy & Mike

Kathy, Carina & Cady

Marilyn & Catriona

Mohammed & Rubi

60 September 2011 BTM

Colin & Grey

Emma & Ding

Daystar, Chefed & Claire

Katie & Nicola

businessentrepreneur Joe Tawfik

While the global addressable’ BPO market is worth US$122US$154 billion at this point, the GCC region is estimated to have approximately 22,000 seats available for outsourcing, representing a potential of around BD250 million. As the industry matures, this is expected to grow by four times.

“Over the next ten years, this should represent a market potential of over BD1 billion in the GCC market,” he says.

New outsourcing jobs could be a blessing for a region that’s struggling with high unemployment and an expanding birth rate. The key challenge lies in finding an able and willing workforce that has bilingual skills. Political and social stability is a must as high costs can erode the attractiveness of the entire cost proposition.

xxxxx The Kingdom’s smaller population is more eager to learn than neighbouring countries Compelling value proposition

A Quantum Shift The GCC region is yet to fully wake up to the potential of strategic outsourcing, but given the current economic climate, things might change after all.

62 September 2011 BTM

The present credit squeeze in the region could be a wake-up call for companies, forcing them to revisit their outsourcing strategies.

“Strategic outsourcing could be a major accelerator for businesses — reducing head count, fixed costs and creating a company bandwidth to enable executives to better focus on core business activities. Unfortunately, companies perceive it more as a commodity service they purchase,” says Joe Tawfik, Silah Gulf CEO. A seasoned outsourcing industry professional, Joe had just sold his business interests in Australia in 2009 when he received an offer from Bahrain e-Government Authority (eGA) to set up a business processing outsourcing (BPO) and contact centre in Bahrain. Curious about the region and intrigued by the challenge of building a start-up company in a foreign country culturally different from his, he came onboard.

While countries such as Jordan, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates that had an early start have emerged the top regional offshoring destinations, Joe is confident Bahrain can set itself apart with a unique value proposition by creating the ideal customer experience.

“I believe that Bahrainis meet the profile of excellent customer service agents. When you add the combination of the friendly people, lower cost base and business-friendly laws, you have a powerful, competitive advantage for Bahrain,” he says.

“The Kingdom’s smaller population is more eager to learn than neighbouring countries. They can become engineers of change within the BPO industry by providing quality customer service.”

Commanding 17 per cent market share in Bahrain, Silah has positioned itself as a boutique provider designed for elite companies in the region who want to use customer service as a differentiator.

“Our goal is to be the leader in this niche. We do not create a niche with call volume but set ourselves apart by creating added value for clients. With Silah, Bahrain can be a leader in Arabian customer experience management,” he believes.

The company has recently bagged two industry awards — being adjudged ‘Best New Outsource Service Provider’ and the ‘Best Contact Centre’ in the Middle East region.

Joe is exploring growth opportunities beyond Bahrain and will soon open offices in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Silah is also in the process of diversifying through strategic alliances to develop new services such as cloud computing.

Going forward, growth in the BPO industry will be built primarily around innovation, the quality of the team and the highest level of customer experience.

“Having the right team and the right culture which helps people to innovate, while cutting through the red tape is the key,” notes Joe.

businessinterview

Enduring Interest One of Singapore’s largest investors in Bahrain commenced business this summer amidst choppy waters.

MTQ Corporation CEO tells us he is here to stay.

Having launched operations at the doorstep to the world’s largest oilfield, Kuah Boon Wee is not too worried about an economic contraction nor about political instability.

The group CEO of MTQ Corporation, an oilfield services player, can afford to take a long-term view of the scenario.

The Singapore-listed company has invested US$20 million in its facility at Bahrain International Investment Park (BIIP) to provide engineering, repair and refurbishment services to oilfield equipment used in oil drilling operations.

Kuah Boon Wee

“Holding a 50-year lease, we have the flexibility to develop the facility in phases. But whatever else the world is doing in 50 years’ time, I’m sure companies will still be drilling for oil,” he points out.

Kuah has, however, had a tough time trying to becalm an apprehensive investor community back home over the past five months.

“We’ve told investors that regardless of what happened in Bahrain, drilling for oil and gas in the region will continue. In fact, the urgency in fossil fuel exploration has gone up in wake of an international debate on nuclear energy, especially in Germany and Japan,” he notes.

Despite the assurance, the message took time to percolate with Singapore being a small country, where the company stands out as the largest investor in Bahrain.

MTQ Bahrain’s physical infrastructure is ready and the facility is in the process of securing industry certifications. Kuah has had to slow things down over the past three months, but he considers it time well spent.

“We’ve been marketing our capability to customers during this time and settling ourselves in the delivery chain. We plan to start in a meaningful way by the fourth quarter of this year and build into next year.”

Employing around 50 people now, the company will ramp up manpower as the business outlook improves. This is MTQ’s first foray outside Singapore after operating in this segment for 20 years and Kuah remains firm on their choice of Bahrain.

“We looked at various places in the Middle East but Bahrain’s business environment and the ease of getting things done here really appealed to us. Bahrain seemed more welcoming of international investors and the EDB, as well as BIIP, were very supportive,” he says.

A regional hub

xxxxx Holding a 50-year lease, we have the flexibility to develop the facility in phases 64 September 2011 BTM

MTQ’s ten-acre site at BIIP is three times the size of the company’s facility in Singapore. The oilfield services company clearly intends to tap into new as well as existing client bases across the whole of the Middle East region, but logistics remain the key concern.

“The challenge lies in moving equipment back and forth between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia and clearing customs every time. The logistics is not as straightforward as we’re used to in South-East Asia, but these are things we’re working on,” he says.

Being a specialised sector, few independent operators have a base in the region and MTQ’s value proposition is that it can both repair and build new oil equipment in a timely manner at competitive rates.

Going forward, Kuah believes the demand for oil and gas will pick up, driven primarily by economies such as China and India.

“This is the world’s biggest oil drilling region. Even though offshore drilling opportunities here are less, the underlying market is bigger. We only need to ensure that we can make the deliveries to our client’s satisfaction,” he says.

businessspotlight

The Importance of Planning Khalid Kanoo

Family businesses in the Kingdom are going through particularly challenging times. A first-of-its-kind study on family businesses in Bahrain takes stock of the scenario.

66 September 2011 BTM

Businesses in Bahrain were still reeling from the aftermath of global financial crisis when the civil unrest unfolded this year, adding to the turmoil. Consequently, family businesses in the Kingdom are now on the edge, notes Khalid Kanoo, group managing director of the Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Group.

“The question is whether we should go ahead and make fresh investments or just wait and watch for the business climate to improve,” says Khalid, who is also chairman of Bahrain Family Business Association (BFBA).

Khalid has recently tabled the findings of a study on Bahrain’s family businesses, which was commissioned to examine the state of affairs in family-owned enterprises in Bahrain and compare them against other countries in the Gulf. Surveying over 100 family businesses in the Kingdom, the report observes that these businesses are relatively young, with around 60 per cent having started operations as recently as the 1980s.

Given the relative infancy of these businesses, many are not fully-equipped to transfer control to successive generations.

Almost half of the family businesses surveyed — around 43 per cent — said they did not have a well-defined succession plan that covers transfer of ownership to the next generation and maintained that this was not high on their priority list.

“The problem with family-owned businesses is that they either fail to plan or the planning is done haphazardly. This is especially true for small and medium business. Where succession has not been agreed upon, major problems can arise, including infighting that can break the family,” he says.

Good governance Maintaining a distinction between ownership and management remains a challenge for many family-owned enterprises, who find it difficult to preserve boundaries. While it’s quite convenient to mix up the two functions to suit one’s needs, Khalid believes owners should let the management run the business if they want it run professionally.

Almost half of the businesses surveyed — 45 per cent — felt they don’t have a formal family governance structure in place, while 46 per cent admitted they didn’t have a family council.

“We’ve had governance for decades, but perhaps, we never recognised it by that name. The rules and regulations for running a business are basically values that the family lives by.

Earlier, it was known as the ‘constitution’; now it is intermingled with the term ‘governance’,” observes Khalid.

Family business owners in Bahrain seem more keen on maintaining absolute ownership of the company, with only 39 per cent saying that ‘going public’ was important for their survival, while 21 per cent said they had plans of a public listing. In contrast, around 50 per cent of family businesses in the Middle East recognised the importance of going public.

Family businesses in Bahrain also seem averse to embracing new technologies and changes in management practices to adopt new strategies within the same generation, the study notes. A clash in the management styles of two generations is common, wherein youngsters educated abroad want to change the way a company is run while the older generation prefers the status quo.

At the end of the day, unity in the family can help surmount all challenges.

“Unless there is unity, everything can come undone. Unity and leadership in the family alone can keep the company going, even when everything else is gone,” Khalid affirms.

xxxxx The problem with familyowned businesses is that they either fail to plan or the planning is done haphazardly

businessspotlight Joseph Rizzo

bni

e-Cargo Ease Insuring your cargo has never been easier; access your policy on-line and print your insurance certificate in minutes with Bahrain National Insurance’s e-cargo facility.

68 September 2011 BTM

Notching up another first in the Bahrain market, bni has introduced an e-cargo service that enables clients to insure their cargo electronically over the Internet. The facility is presently available for clients who operate a marine open-cover with bni and/or their brokers.

“We can proudly say that since we’ve introduced this system, most of our open-cover clients have been using it extensively,” Joseph Rizzo, general manager of bni’s General Insurance division.

“If you are a present open-cover client, all you need to do is contact bni’s marine department and make an appointment for their representatives to come and open the system on your computers. It only takes an additional hour or so to train your personnel in using it and you are then on your way.”

The concept of marine cargo insurance on an open-cover is based on the fact that the importer or exporter who sends or receives a number of consignments on a regular and frequent basis does not have to seek insurance every time and for every consignment.

xxxxx We can proudly say that since we’ve introduced this system, most of our open-cover clients have been using it extensively Under an open-cover policy, the insurance company agrees with the client to hold cover on all consignments during the currency of the policy at an agreed rate and subject to agreed terms and conditions. The client also agrees on their part to declare each and every consignment on a regular basis. Since terms, conditions and rates would have been all agreed beforehand, it’s a simple matter of declaring each consignment as to amount and voyage details.

“The e-cargo simplifies this even further as the client does not need to send any declarations but will access his policy and declare the consignment and voyage on-line. The system will print the insurance certificates required for banks and/or customs, as the case may be, at the client’s desk. No further input is required and the client will receive his invoice for such declarations on a regular basis as agreed in the open-cover policy,” explains Rizzo.

The e-cargo system can include consignments by air, land or sea depending on the conditions of the open-cover. The rates, terms and conditions for open-cover policies depend on the nature of the goods being transported, the volumes in the year and hence, the annual turnover of goods transported, the voyage and method of transportation. All these are disclosed by the client once at the inception of the cover.

The terms for these types of open-covers are sometime better priced as the insurer takes into consideration the volume of business, and sometimes the diversity of goods and destinations as opposed to one consignment at a time. All open-covers can be operated using the e-cargo facility.

Always at the forefront of innovation, bni was the first insurance company in Bahrain to open up access to its motor and personal products on-line. It has also introduced the ‘virtual offices’ or ‘information zones’ which are standalone machines where bni clients can renew their policies.

“This is another example of bni taking the products to the customer in the comfort of their offices. This level of service will continue to increase and remains high on bni’s priority list by further empowering our customers,” adds Rizzo.

E Call 17 587-400.

bystanderthismonth

Zain Media Ghabga Zain Bahrain held a special Ramadan media Ghabga for representatives of the local media, who were welcomed by Mohammed Zainalabedin, Zain general manager. The ghabga was held at the L' Hotel in Seef District, and was attended by local media, employees of Zain Bahrain and guests Ali, Mohammed Zainalabedin & Samya

Jay, Ali & Anis

Stan & David

Abdul Rahman, Assan, Zainab & Budoor

Ashok & Ameer

Hind & Fatima

Anas & Mohammed

Salman

Stan, Charlie, Mai & Gopal

Jassim & Abbas

Detelina & Sheila

Batelco Ghabga At Sofitel Batelco held a ghabga for corporate clients and members of staff at the Al Nakheel grand ballroom in Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Senior company officials including Batelco Enterprise Division general manager Adel Al Daylami, attended the event

Hussain, Maddie & Hessa

Sabrin, Lila & Khulood

70 September 2011 BTM

Adel Al Daylami

Ghazi & Ali

Maitham, Tawfeeq, Ali & Al Gami

Sawsan, Osama Alsaad & Khalid

Shahrezad & Meaad

Rola & Alaa

Rajeev, Aryahi & Pooja

Ahmed & Mahmood

Dunia

George Williams & Madeleine

British Housewife Loses 16.5 kg and Stops Using Her Inhaler!

“Thank you so much DreamBody Centre for changing my life for the better.”

I

“ wasn’t in a happy place with myself and my weight. After the Summer holidays my Husband joined Dreambody Centre (DBC) and I went along with him to have a look. I was offered a 3 week free trial, wow I thought WKDW ZDV UHDOO\ JRRG $IWHU P\ YHU\ ¿UVW session I loved the workout and knew it would work for me.

Michelle Larkin lost 16.5 kg and 18.5 inches of fat from her body at the DreamBody Centre.

In January 2010 my doctor put me on an inhaler which I had to use each morning and night. When I went to see my Doctor after about 2 months at DBC he immediately noticed I had lost weight. This made me feel great as he had previously advised me to start exercising and to make things even better he also told me I no longer needed to use my inhaler. I was delighted at the good news and knew this was a result of going to DBC.

The Dream Body Centre is a unique place where you can literally get your “Dream Body” in just 23 minutes, 3 times per week.

It is not a diet centre or clinic. You lose fat and tone muscle by training on specially designed circuit training equipment. This is called The DBC Guaranteed 23 Minute Body Transformation Process. This process will not put your health at risk, and has no harmful side effects. It consists of an effective fat burning process that works fast.

DBC is the best gym I have been to in Bahrain, I have tried many other gyms over the past few years but did not get the results I achieved at DBC in such a short period of time.

Just like Michelle, you can get your DreamBody too! 7R ÀQG RXW KRZ WKH DreamBody Centre works, and how it can transform your body, call 17 613 352 now to activate your 7-day FREE trial.

DBC has become part of my daily routine and I couldn’t imagine my life in Bahrain without it.

Thank you so much DBC for changing my life for the better. I am on the right road now and LW ZRQ¶W EH ORQJ XQWLO , KDYH UHDFKHG P\ ¿QDO destination. I am looking so forward to that day, I can see it in the distance and cannot wait to reach it.”

- Michelle Larkin

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bystanderthismonth

VIVA Ramadan Activities Launch Under the patronage of HE Dr Fatima Al Bulooshi, Human Rights and Social Development Minister, VIVA launched its Ramadan activity in Bahrain City Centre. The activity is aimed at reviving Bahraini crafts and reliving traditional street culture. For the duration of the holy month and Eid, the mall’s galleria space featured a game zone with carrom, large chess, Dominos and hopscotch for children. The area will also host Bahraini productive families demonstrating their crafts and offering their handiwork for sale

Dr Maryam Al Jalajma & HE Dr Fatima Al Balooshi

Ali, Hussain & Chadi

Hayla, Chadi, Nai, May, Ray & Dipti

Anwaar, Jabbar & Jamal

Mohammed, Ahmed, Ameena & Mohammed

Dr Maryam, Duaa, Zeyad & Yousif

A carrom game in progress

Lucy

Ulyan Al Wufaid

Nimita's 2nd Birthday Party Nimita Parik, daughter of Nirmal & Amita Parik, celebrated her 2nd birthday with parents and family friends at the Summit Hall, Elite Resort & Spa last month

Amita, Nimita & Nirmal Parik

The Parik's with Sachin

Bhaskar, Yoshita & Chetna

The Parik's with Krshna & Rao

Amita, Nimita & Nirmal Parik with friends

72 September 2011 BTM

Nitin, Dhriti, Amita & Monika

bystanderthismonth

Junaid For Perfumes Ghabga & Perfume Launch Junaid For Perfumes held their annual Ramadan Ghabga for members of the media and invited guests at the Gulf Hotel's Awal Ballroom. The event also marked the launch of the group's new fragrance 'Taariikh'

Seham & Atif

Safiya & Caillin

Anna & Natalia

Hilde & Bambi

Bousy, Aziza, Juhaina & Marah

Hamya & Imran

Mahmood & Asif

Noor & Nada

Eman & Shima

Simmi, Joshi, Arun & Divya

Nitika, Anju, Neha & Pammy

Sameer & Azra

Eman & Ribal

Future Society For Youth Charity Ghabga The Future Society For Youth held a Charity Ghabga at the Al Dana Hall in the Gulf Hotel. The event hoped to raise funds for the society's "The Smile" programme which focuses on providing support to Bahraini children and youth suffering from cancer

Ahmed Bahar, Yousif Mubarak, Soubah Al Zayani & Salman Al Hasan

Zubaida, Nahid, Maram, Geety & Nada

Mary Yateem & Mrs Al Zayani

74 September 2011 BTM

Faezeh, Fatima & Lamya

Maria & Safia

Babak & Maryam

Zeeba, Safia Kanoo, Maram & Soubah

Shereen, Ahmed & Mohammed

Khadija, Safia & Ameena

BAHRAIN Bahrain Mall Bahrain City Centre

Shoes

BD 24.9 Boots

BD 33.9

bystanderthismonth

Ramadan Faces The evenings during the Holy Month of Ramadan, was a perfect time to spend time with family, catch up with old friends and new at the various tents, iftars and ghabgas held at many venues in and around the kingdom

Amy & Ella

Maria, Caroline & Joe - left Bahrain after 16 years to start a new life in Canada

Shatha, Lila, Aaref Hejres & Ajab

Jalal, Akil & Ahmed

Tariq & Rami

Jeff & Poonam

Musthafa & Zahi

Edona

Russ & Jane

Mohammed

Mai & Nilda

Yosra & Zainab

Ali, Hamad & Ahmed

Noor Ramadan Tent Launch The Elite Resort & Spa held a dinner to mark the launch of the resort's poolside Noor Ramadan Tent, prior to the advent of the Holy Month

Najeeb, Namita & Anurag Bajaj, Ninad Shah & Jamila

Norma, Bing, Dr Josie, Geoffrey, Cynthia & Elmer

Aqeel, Rajneesh, Amani, Lakshmi & Pramod

Dr Abdulla, Abdulwahab & Jawad Y. Al Hawaj

Revelta & Hussain

Lila & Cynthia

Mohamed & Ahmed

76 September 2011 BTM

Anurag & David

Abbas & Santosh

Devanathan & Vineeth

Waseem

destinationreport

Copenhagen: An Urban Treasure Copenhagen is one of the most up-and-coming cities, and stands today as the premier capital of Northern Europe, enticing travellers to explore both the old and the new.

Happily for all eager holidaymakers, Gulf Air has recently launched flights to Copenhagen providing direct access from the Kingdom to one of the most intriguing European cities. This compact city is more than just beer and has something for everyone; a mix of outstanding gastronomy, beautiful architecture and award-winning design.

Additionally, Copenhagen is constantly applauded for its cleanliness and eco-friendly lifestyle — you can even swim in the city’s inner harbour, which is a luxury not available in the majority of cities in the world!

Futuristic yet historical As the capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen has a relatively small population of around 1.7 million, due to high living costs.

This is ideal for tourists as you find yourself without the extreme hustle and bustle you are subject to in some cities, but all of the places of interest and the buzz of a dynamic

destination are still present. The city is old and dates back to the 11th century. It was officially labeled the capital of Denmark in the 15th century and in the 17th century, under the rule of Christian IV, it became a significant regional centre.

Ideas are fresh in Copenhagen and commercialism and businesses are booming, with emerging fashion and art trends leading the way for the rest of Scandinavia. The selected modes of transport that are primarily used reflect the ways in which the city embraces both the old and the new; an astonishing 36 per cent of residents choose the classic bicycle as their mode of transport whilst another large chunk opt for the futuristic, driverless Metro which is available for use 24/7.

So whether you decide to cycle or hop on the Metro, you can easily navigate your way around this interesting city whilst gazing in wonder at the spectacle of the historical sites or become fascinated by the state-of-the-art architecture.

Kronberg Castle

78 September 2010 BTM

Amalienborg Palace

Where to visit Perhaps not quite as famous or well-known as other major European cities, Copenhagen, nevertheless, is as equally well stocked with treasures for the tourist to explore.

Castle Kronborg Anybody knowledgeable in Shakespeare will recognise this castle from the tragic play, Hamlet. Magnificent and striking, it derives from the renaissance era and is well-fortified having acted as a safeguard during times of war. Make time to visit the grand ballroom and the creepy castle dungeons.

Art museums Some of the most prolific art museums in Europe reside in Copenhagen, so if you are an art lover or simply appreciate skilled work then be sure to visit either the Louisiana, Arken or Glyptotek museums, the latter founded by brewer Carl Jacobsen.

Amalienborg Palace This great castle, which is the Queen’s residence, is considered to be one of the greatest works of Danish Rococo architecture. Four identical buildings surrounds an octagonal courtyard in which you can mill around in and if you hang around for a while you may be able to catch the changeover of the Royal Guard.

Tivoli Gardens amusement park If you are in the city with kids in tow, a great way to spend a day is at the famous Tivoli Gardens, which houses the second-oldest amusement park in the world. Cleverly blending traditional fairground rides with modern technology, there is a huge diversity in the rides that places it as a top theme park destination for children of all ages.

Tivoli Gardens

Castle Rosenborg

Castle Rosenborg Conveniently situated in the heart of the city, it was originally built to serve as a royal retreat. Today it acts purely as a museum, displaying 400 years of history. There is also a beautiful garden which is the oldest and mostvisited park in the city and serves as a gallery, home to sculptures and temporary exhibitions during the summer.

The Little Mermaid Copenhagen is home to one of the most famous Disney figures; The Little Mermaid. The bronze statue was another gift from Carl Jacobsen, unveiled in 1913. Say ‘hello’ to her, nestled on the opposite side of the harbour from the opera house.

Carlsberg Brewery Copenhagen is home to one of the most famous beers in the world; Carlsberg. Founded in 1847, the beverage brand has become internationally loved making the brewery one of the largest tourist attractions in Copenhagen. You can get up close and personal with rows upon rows of the beer and learn about the history of the beer that has been an international hit.

Opera House This opera house, designed by Henning Larsen, is an impressive must-see that dominates the entrance to the Copenhagen port. It totals over 41,000 square metres with an impressive 14 storeys of which five lie underground.

Built in 2004, it is viewed as one of the world’s most appreciated modern opera houses.

Gulf Air now flies to Copenhagen; call 17 335-777 or visit www.gulfair.com for further details.

BTM September 2010 79

downtimethismonth

Forever 27 – Frozen in Time!

ELMA BARTHOLOMEW May her soul rest in peace; Amy Winehouse’s death was only a reminder of other legendary musicians that lost their life at the same age.

No, no, no! It’s happened again. Yet another performer has fallen victim to the curse of 27. Maybe she should have listened when ‘they tried to take her to rehab’, but Amy Winehouse had chosen a different path — one followed by a handful of musicians that were undoubtedly a bigger loss than she is.

People all over the world seemed to care less about her music and more about her age or her appearance. Why must I be any different? An overdose clearly isn’t a second guess when it comes to Ms Beehive; but if the family chooses to be private about something so obvious, so be it. I know a bunch of people who ended up having to Google the singer, only because she made it to this infamous club. Sure, she had a lot of Grammy nominations under her belt; but she was no Jim Morrison.

The lead singer, songwriter and video director for The Doors bid farewell 30 years ago; before I was even born, and I’m still not over it. People still refer to him as a god in the world of music. Oh wait, that could be Jimi Hendrix they’re talking about. Now there’s a legend that will forever be remembered for his music and persona. There is probably not a living soul on Earth that wouldn’t know, let alone adore, the revolutionary electric guitarist.

Also this month

Third time’s a charm There is no better way to prove it with another ‘J’ erasing her existence. Word spread that it was a possible heroin overdose.

But, it didn’t matter because the world had lost Janis Joplin.

Fans across the globe had to deal with the absence of the queen of psychedelic soul. Considered the female version of Elvis Presley, she was more than a youth icon; her powerful voice had created an unreachable benchmark for female artists in the genre of rock and roll.

But nothing cut as deep into the guts of music lovers everywhere than the unfortunate passing away of Kurt Cobain. It is safe to say that the world of music has not been the same since. There might be several controversies behind his death, or ‘suicide’ as they claim it to be; but it still hurts to think he’s gone.

It all began with the unfortunate drowning of Brian Jones, the founder of the legendary Rolling Stones. It seems to have snowballed from there. People definitely hope Winehouse is the last stop. But forgive me for thinking she isn’t worthy of being in a club that perhaps no one deserved to be in, in the first place.

However, while it exists, I’d rather see true losses than someone who almost made it big, yet almost didn’t. I plead guilty of remembering those who came and left with a storm, leaving behind songs of never-ending popularity, than ‘YouTube‘-ing videos of Winehouse only to jerk your memory of what songs she was known for. The others might be long gone, but their songs will last forever. I doubt anyone would remember Winehouse at all in a few years’ time.

82 Gadgets x 88 Music x 90 Computer games x 92 Websites x 94 Satellite TV

Time for a Diet

‘Up’ is a wristband from Jawbone filled with sensors, designed to be wirelesslyconnected to an ‘app’ that can track your activities, thanks to its accelerometer.

It even counts calories from pictures of your meal!

For Escher Fans

Have you ever lost yourself in an MC Escher drawing? The Mirrorkal Escher puzzle might just give your grey matter a challenge; sporting five different drawings, all you need to do is arrange the mirrored cubes to recreate them

BTM September 2011 81

downtimegadgets

Ahead of the Game Would Steve Jobs have envisioned the iPhone ending up as a cross hair-cum-monitor device that could be fitted onto an alien-blasting rifle? This month, we’ve got all manner of gaming marvels.

Showing off

Apple scores another first with this display that sports Thunderbolt I/O technology, making it the ultimate docking station for your Mac notebook. All it takes is a solitary cable giving you access to a plethora of ports and connectivity options.

Editors pick!

Eye-popping clarity

Asus intends to up the ante when it comes to the world of gaming notebooks by expanding the collection with the G74SX model. It is said to support the latest Microsoft DirectX11 graphics ensuring popping visuals without dropping any frame rates in the process.

Mind-blowing app The awesome AppToyz Blaster results in one truly immersive, augmented reality environment, as long as you have an iPhone 3GS (or better). You can ‘reload’ the rifle simply by tilting it backwards; but do it quickly because aliens are crawling all over the place.

82 September 2011 BTM

Less drag, more frag The updated Razer Mouse Bungee boasts a stable, taut arm, helping thread your mouse cord to avoid any dragging against surfaces or a tangled mess. With anti-slip feet and a weight installed in the base, it will remain immobile regardless of just how aggressive your swipes are.

Let the nerds rejoice

Going green

Something special was recently launched at the Comic-Con. Sound the trumpets as we introduce the Star Wars-themed Xbox 360 console. Dolled up to resemble R2-D2, the controller mimics the faithful dolt-of-a-robot C-3P0.

We couldn’t let this pass by on our watch. The Sprout biodegradable watch has an organic cotton band, is made out of a biodegradable corn resin case, while a sustainable bamboo dial and mineral crystal lens makes sure the whole thing will return to dust eventually.

Chuck your bird

You didn’t seriously think they could stay cooped up in your smartphone any longer, did you? After all, catapulting comedy birds at egg-snaffling piggies is far too entertaining to remain within the pixellated realms of your screen.

So, squawk and oink because ‘Angry Birds Knock on Wood’ is here.

Gain total control

Try out these new Wii controllers from Memorex. The Wireless Controller Plus is a Wiimote with built-in motion plus. The Wireless Sidekick Controller is a better nunchuk as it is completely wireless, gets charged from a USB cable, and syncs with the Wiimote with a plug-in adapter.

Seeing double Just so you know that you are not dreaming, you are seeing a laptop with dual screens. The gScreen SpaceBook has two 17.3inch screens. It also has a quad-core Intel Core i7-740M processor, 8GB of RAM, as well as a NVIDIA GeForce GTS 250M video card.

Show no mercy Since we are smack in the middle of summer, this could be your weapon of choice. The X2 Water Blaster will get your kids (read ‘you’) out of the house. Not only does it send streams of water at your target, it also shoots foam darts.

BTM September 2011 83

downtimevoicebox

What Turns You Off

the Opposite Sex? FAWAZ AL BALOOSHI We love them, but the opposite sex often have habits and traits that we just find annoying; from arrogance to a ‘beneath-me’ outlook, we get turned off super fast.

Nada Janahi | AGE 25 Guys who lie about every single thing in their lives; it really rankles with me. I try to give an impression that I’m not materialistic and I don’t care about their background; but still no hope, they about where they are from, about their age and where they went to school — its endless.

May Babtista | AGE 26 Luma Adel | AGE 25 Mean guys who keep making fun of every single person they meet, even their best friends. As soon as they turn their back on them, they start talking trash and that just turns me off; it suggests to me that he probably talks behind my back too.

Guys who are loud, mean and disrespectful to other people around them; I can’t stand that. If we go out to a restaurant, they embarrass me and themselves, they have to argue with the waiter about anything; can’t they just get along and accept or forgive? They really should get a life.

Ahmed Al Murbati | AGE 25 My number one beef — girls who always bring along friends when we go out! Why can’t we go out without any mysterious friends or cousins tagging along? And, on top of that, if we go out for dinner, a movie or anything they never offer to pay; what kind of abuse is that?

Osama Abdulhameed | AGE 27 Girls who think they know everything and never give you a chance to explain yourself, and who are insecure and always suspicious. They can never allow you to have your own time with your friends because they feel you are with another girl; a lot of nagging too.

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Khalid Murad | AGE 24 Arrogant and egocentric girls who think that they own everybody, just because they tend to get attention from most of the guys they meet. All they’ve got is looks, which often seems more important these days. They treat us like we don’t have feelings and that’s really sad.

downtimeyoungachiever Maintaining an unrealistic touch in her artistic captures of life, Hana Tawfeeqi is an upcoming artist on the local arts scene.

Capturing Emotions ELMA BARTHOLOMEW

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Currently a student of events management in Melbourne, Australia, 21-year-old Hana Tawfeeqi has made her mark in the Kingdom with her skills in photography and creative designing.

Although her interest in the field began during her school days, while she clicked candid moments, she took it up seriously once she headed to university on the other side of the world where she found places and views that were impossible to leave without capturing.

“The important thing about being a photographer is creativity,” the young artist says. She believes the work done by those who are genuinely interested and self-taught is much better than of those with pricey equipment and a certificate in the field.

Hana specialises in long-exposure shots as they result in supernatural versions of something that is very real. She also enjoys taking snaps of children as there is a certain quality of originality in their expressions that are unaltered by the harsh truths of life.

With her graphical portraits having been exhibited in the Outdoor Market 338 and at the Amwaj Marina Market, she tries to portray a variety of styles and techniques with themes from familial get-togethers and couples’ portraits to product images and fashion shoots.

“I like my pictures to showcase what is real; perhaps, a little better than reality,” she says. “I try to make things look the way I think they should be.”

She claims creative designing is all about getting inspired and incorporating several styles. Driven by challenges, she suggests assigning tasks to yourself and writing down ideas. She advises aspiring young Bahraini artists to give something your fullest because, to be successful, you need to connect with your project.

“Your artwork is a reflection of who you are and what you’re capable of achieving; be the best you can be as you will be remembered for it. Never compare your journey with others’; it’s a marathon with no finish line,” she says.

Taking pictures since 2004, her latest venture is creating graphical portraits that are unbelievably artistic; cinematography and creating corporate identities are other additions to her bag of tricks. Photography, though, is a place she can escape to and unplug from the fast-paced life. “There is nothing more powerful than human emotions. They add a rich dimension to the images,” she explains about the edge in her snaps.

downtimemusic

Tracing Roots If you’re an artist who creates music that sounds as if it could have been written a century ago, what difference does it make if you take eight years between albums? No difference at all, if you’re Gillian Welch.

Gillian Welch

The Harrow & The Harvest

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WHAT’S THE STORY?

Ten years ago, Mumford & Sons didn’t exist. Neither did The Felice Brothers, Civil Wars, or Fleet Foxes. But the foundation of the roots music revival, currently flourishing with those bands, was laid when the soundtrack to O Brother, Where Art Thou? became the surprise smash of 2001, set aloft by the gorgeous, plaintive voice of Gillian Welch.

Now, eight years after her last album, 2003’s Soul Journey, Welch returns with The Harrow & the Harvest; simply one of the richest, most expansive roots albums to be released in some time.

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She doesn’t seem to have tinkered much with her approach to singing or recording music. Their interplay is as empathetic as ever, reminding us how rare it is to hear musicians with such highly developed senses of intuition. At times, it’s still difficult to know when Welch’s vocals end and Rawlings’ harmonies begin with the interweaving of string melodies. The harmony-drenched songs illustrate how much her literary sensibilities have developed.

It would be inaccurate to call this a concept album.

VERDICT: Welch balances the ancient and the modern with an ease and grace that scarcely seems possible.

TOP TRACKS: Dark Turn of Mind, Hard Times, Tennessee.

Limp Bizkit

Gold Cobra Given the waning fortunes of nu-metal and rap-rock, as well as the group’s internal dramas, it’s easy to forget that people (a lot of them), actually were once fans of Limp Bizkit. Gold Cobra, the quintet’s newest album in five years and first by the original line-up since 2000, reminds us why. The set is loaded with the same kind of beefy grooves, massive guitar riffs and the cocky swagger.

You’ll enjoy this while you reminisce what you missed.

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Incubus

If Not Now, When?

This is a solid album that wavers in quality at different points, failing when it leans too much on ballad sensibilities.

Gloss Drop

Battles The music is as intense, intricate and strange as before. It has a great sense of fun and some dazzling moments as compared to its last album Mirrored.

T : +973 1721 8899 - F : +973 17226300 o p e rat i o n s @g u l f a s s i s t. co m

downtimecomputergames

Buzzing Lightyears TH GAME E M ON TH

With the latest releases in the gaming world, you wonder if the only choices we have are first-person shooters. We think gamers could use something new beyond a change in the story.

Star Wars: The Old Republic (PC)

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This is set more than 3,000 years before the rise of Darth Vader. The Galactic Republic and the Sith Empire have been at war, during which the Empire was able to seize control of a number of Republic star systems. Though a peace treaty has been signed, it appears the two sides are headed for another war.

Call of Juarez: The Cartel (Xbox 360) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Call of Juarez: The Cartel tells the story of three law enforcement officers put together, as a special task force to take on the infamous Mexican drug cartels.

Ben is a typical gunslinger. Eddie and Kim are sassy modern cops who’ve grown up in the streets. Together they form a motley crew; one that has to fight against enemies on the outside and within.

EDF: Insect Armageddon (Xbox 360) It is terribly cheesy in all the right ways.

The performance issues it has, especially during split screen, can become annoying at times. It isn’t the best at anything, but it’s got a flair for the ridiculous that makes it unique in a genre that often takes itself a little too seriously.

GRAPHICS:

The Cartel looks like a game from several years ago. Textures are constantly popping in; it’s downright garish at times. Characters are constantly clipping through things, magically reappearing ahead of you when they were just behind you, and sometimes even speaking when they’re already dead. It’s hard to even start to get into the story when you’re constantly seeing generic, poorly made environments and cloned characters.

GAMEPLAY:

The first-person mechanics aren’t bad; they’re just abused by repetition. The guns are fun enough to shoot and there are always plenty of enemies to kill, but the levels are so utterly repetitive you can predict what is going to happen next. At some point, in every level, there will be a boring driving sequence, followed by a bunch of guys to shoot, and then several doors to kick in, triggering a slow-motion shooting scene.

VERDICT: The Cartel feels rushed, unpolished, and repetitive to the point of frustration.

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Operation Flashpoint: Red River (Xbox 360) Red River just about achieves its objective — an engaging halfway house between soldier simulation and improbable heroics, and a slick, smart co-op modern warfare experience. It should trim down the flabby downtime and instead pursue more tactical variety.

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Limitless RATING: DIRECTED BY: Neil Burger STARRING: Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro

THE PLOT:

This is an action-thriller about a writer, Eddie Morra (Cooper), who takes an experimental drug that allows him to use 100 per cent of his mind. As one man evolves into the perfect version of himself, forces more corrupt than he can imagine mark him for assassination. He also draws the attention of business mogul Carl Van Loon (De Niro), who sees this enhanced version of Eddie as the tool to make billions. But, brutal side effects jeopardise his meteoric ascent.

WORTH WATCHING? Limitless does have its limits. The plot

hits some nasty speed bumps, and the ending is rote. But getting there is terrific, mind-bending fun. It is a treat for anyone who has ever dreamed of getting an edge on the information highway. The movie isn’t terrifically good, but the premise is intriguing. Burger works at an involving flick that’s probably meant to keep us from minding the many loose ends. It is a good effort on Cooper’s part as he takes up a more serious role.

VERDICT: The film just wants to give you a good time, and it does.

Source Code A pure entertainer, this movie looks like another attempt to the brainfrying genre of films like Inception.

However, not only did it not achieve its goal; the climax completely went against the foundation of the story, leading it to crumble.

Rio Rio is clearly a fun movie. Blue Sky not only delivers a breath-taking 3D trip around the massive omnipresent Christ the Redeemer statue, but has somehow also managed to present a believable Rio Carnival.

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If you’re a photographer, 500px. com is your connection to a whole world of people. Check out what’s in store for you this month in the virtual world.

Pinterest.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Pinterest.com is a virtual pinboard. It lets you organise and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use them to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organise their favourite recipes. Browsing them is a fun way to discover new things.

THE GOOD:

Best of all, you can browse pinboards created by other people. You can save patterns, furniture, and accessories that catch your eye to save decorating ideas for your new home. Share your personal style by pinning clothing, shoes and accessories that you find while browsing stores.

THE BAD: You cannot just go ahead and starting pinning your

favourite ideas onto the ‘board’. You will need to request for an invite and log on to be a part of all the fun. But that doesn’t take forever, so it isn’t really a problem.

VERDICT: It’s got that ‘pick-me-up’ factor that makes it perfect for a daily read.

500px.com This website is a photographic community powered by creative people from all over the world that lets you share and discover inspiring photographs. It’s the place for you to upload your work and create a beautiful portfolio, join in the conversations, vote on photos and get reviewed in kind. You are able to follow the works of your favourite photographers, create lists of photos that amaze you, express your opinion in comments and by votes, and even find a photographer for hire.

Chictopia.com This is one of the largest online communities that gives everyone a voice in fashion. With a name that speaks for itself, Chictopia.com connects style seekers to tastemakers similar in shape, size, and taste. Members can receive newsletter updates on latest fashion trends, share style tips, redeem chic rewards with their chic points, and trade in the community’s free marketplace.

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Crazy, Stupid, Love RATING: DIRECTED BY: Glenn Ficarra, John Requa STARRING: Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore

Enjoy inspiring locally produced art while you relax; with organic coffee and treats also featuring delightful tchaba whole leaf teas.

THE PLOT: A devoted family man who married his high school

sweetheart, Cal (Carell) had a great house and a stable job when his wife (Moore) left him to be with another man. Just when it’s starting to look as if there’s no hope, confirmed bachelor Jacob (Gosling) decides to add some much-needed excitement to the sulking, newly single father’s life.

WORTH WATCHING?

As much as the movie is about couples and coupling, it is also a film about families. Between the writing, acting, directing and the rest, it works. Not crazy, not stupid, and filled with love. The picture is full of moments to savour. Carell gives a ruefully funny and lived-in performance. The comedy, however, could still pass as a hit and miss.

VERDICT: The romantic comedy and its stellar cast play out each of the title’s three words to brilliant effect.

The Smurfs This is a great film for kids though it offers very little humour for teens and parents. But that certainly doesn’t take away from the fact that the flick is fun, adventurous and heart-warming. It is a forgettable easy-to-digest cinema.

Friends with Benefits Sweet, funny, romantic, and not nearly as post-modern as it pretends to be, Friends with Benefits has everything you’d expect from an R-rated romantic comedy in the 21st century — but not any more than that.

BTM September 2011 93

downtimesatTV WHEN? OSN First, every Thursday.

MOVIES

Inception Leonardo DiCaprio stars in this mind-blowing action-packed adventure as Dom Cobb, a mysterious master of extraction in a world of dreams. This sci-fi movie sees Cobb and his team steal valuable information from inside subconscious minds during the vulnerable state of sleep, however the trick is to never become personally involved which is something that Cobb is unable to avoid.

Dream layers intertwine as the film explores plots-withinplots and so it takes some concentration to keep up with whether the characters are in the dream world or reality. But the fantastic cast line up (including Ellen Page, Marion Cotillard, Cillian Murphy and Joseph-Gordon Levitt) and unique storyline will keep you on the edge of your seat right until the closing credits.

SERIES/SPECIALS

The X Factor US (Season 1) The singing contestant that turns nobodies into somebodies is going stateside. Simon Cowell is taking his award-winning international phenomenon, The X Factor, to America. The show offers viewers a chance to change one contestant’s life and choose the next global superstar or breakout music group.

The judges travel the nation searching for undiscovered talent 12 years old or over — both solo artists and vocal groups — who are willing to brave the panel for a chance to make their dreams come true. This show is a must-see for anyone who enjoys being taken on an emotional rollercoaster ride, as you will find yourself laughing hysterically at some of the contestants, fighting back tears at the sob stories and cheering so loudly your throat hurts at your favourite singer. Who knows, Cowell and his team may end up unveiling the next Michael Jackson — we will have to wait and see.

WHEN? OSN Cinema, Tuesday 13

Blue Valentine A couple’s love story is beautifully and simply narrated through shifts in time, as they fall in love and marry quickly before the marriage fails years later.

Starring Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams, you can catch this on OSN Cinema on Monday 13.

Boardwalk Empire (Season 2) This multi-award winning drama series charts the continued rise of organised crime at the dawn of Prohibition. A federal investigation targets Nucky and an uprising amongst allies causes problems. Every Monday on OSN First.

94 September 2011 BTM

House (Season 7)

Glee (Season 3)

The infamous US medical drama, starring Hugh Laurie, sees Dr Gregory House access his softer side for the first time. House struggles to mix work and play as his new and long awaited relationship with Dr. Lisa seems to affect his job. Every Tuesday on OSN First.

The world’s favourite musical TV series returns with a bang with some of New Directions set to sadden viewers by waving goodbye and graduating, and a fresh crop of young talent will wow viewers with new music and dramas. Every Friday on OSN First.

Dinner for Schmucks In order to succeed in his corporate company, Tim (Paul Rudd) must find the most uniquely ridiculous guest to bring to his boss’s annual dinner party. Although slightly ridiculous, you will definitely be laughing. Watch it on OSN Cinema, Thursday 29.

TO ADVERTISE CALL: (+973) 17 564250 - (+973) 39 477727

bystanderthismonth

Paula's Birthday Party Paula celebrated her birthday with a fancy dress party that was attended by a number of her friends at Jim's Restaurant in Adliya

Corrine, Justyna & Paula

Caroline, Emad & Jimmy

Joy & Laura

Jeannine & Henerik

Shelly & Chris

Annie & Ralph

Caroline, Graham & Paula

96 September 2011 BTM

Paula & her friends

Rowena & Nils

Seef Mall Puppet Show A live Puppet Show for kids was held at the Seef Mall new extension as part of the Mall's Ramadan promotion, “Ramadaniyat Al Seef,”

Alex Mathews, producer/writer, Frances Stafford, artistic director & Rox Flame, animator

Frances, Ebrahim, Hala & Feras

Tariq, Rayyan, Yazan & Yousif

The puppets entertain the kids

Derek & Toni

Kritika & Hetal

Jood & Nood

Mesk, Shabir, Fahad & Sultan

Christian & Elkan

Fatima & Marwa

Yara

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Take breakfast in The Gallery, relax in our stately massage chair in the Retreat or simply bask in our swimming and jet pools.

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bystanderthismonth

Barbie Show At The Bahrain City Centre Barbie and her long-time friend, Ken took the stage with their ‘It’s a Barbie World’ live experience.

The event took place at the Bahrain City Centre's Central Galleria Court and was attended by a number of Barbie fans

Sancia, Gavril & Sanford

Jishu, Nancy & Sharon

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Barbie on stage

Aisha, Khalifa, Sara & Dalal

Sunil, Katherine & Michelle

Jassim & Badria

Barbie & Ken

Kids enjoying the show

Kaya & Kenisha

Bliss & Zahra

Hazel & Ashley

Manju & Sonia

The Dreams Society Ramadan Charity Bazaar The Dreams Society held a Ramadhan Charity Bazaar at L'Hotel, Seef District.

The event raised over BD 2700 which will go towards making the dreams of children who are terminally ill or have debilitating diseases come true, as well as organising special events for such children

Dreams Society founding members who organised the Ramadan Bazaar

Rose

Dr Hala, Eman & Sara

Noora & Fajer

Zainab & Jacinta

Maria & Kiran

Marisa

Pinky, Mariam & Rio

Michel Jayne & Lulu

Weam & Njood

Mariam & Noor

Nariman

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bystanderthismonth

Networking & Fundraising Lunch A charity business networking lunch in support of a local animal rescue centre was held at the Skywalk CafĂŠ in Marriott Executive Apartments, Juffair, last month. The lunch was organised by Castaway sales executive Susan Cook, to raise money for the Second Chance Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, Saar, run by Tony Waters, better known as the 'Dogfather'

Susan, Nakita & Michelle

Anubha, Susan Cook & Monique

Brian, Paul & Tony

Susan with guests at the event

100 September 2011 BTM

Tony Waters, Susan, Michel & Olivier

Liz & Marwan

Benny & Katie

Adam & Rebecca

Bahrain City Centre Gergaoun A number of children dressed up in traditional outfits to celebrate the time honoured tradition of Gergaoun at the Bahrain City Centre. Gergaoun falls in the middle of Ramadan and is regarded as a day to make every child feel special. The event also featured a traditonal Freysa – a horse mascot, which was accompanied by a drummer

The traditional Freysa

Atif & Mohammed

Lori, Dipti & Basma

Rehan & Um Rehan

Shooq & Budoor

Ahmed, Ahmed, Hussain, Talal, Saad, Faisal & Abdulla

Abdulla & Talal

Zainab & Sakina

Mohammed Ali

Hana & Sara

Salma

Danial

Hiba & Sidrah

BTM September 2011 101

bystanderthismonth

Hebah Al Hasan Ramadan Collection Launch Hebah Al Hasan launched her latest Ramadan collection at her store Darjee Tailor House in Umm Al Hassam last month. The event was attended by a number of Hebah's friends and guests

Mimi Ameera, Haifa, Hebah & Dunia

Sahar, Haifa, Hebah & Dina

Wiebke

Dina, Hebah & Yara

Ameera

Wasn, Hebah & Dina

102 September 2011 BTM

Hebah & friends

Shaikha

Zarinah Hussin Farewell Party Nadia Binti Alwi, wife of the First Secretary of the Malaysian Embassy hosted an 'Arabian Fusion Night' to bid farewell to Datin Zarinah Hussin, wife of HE Dato Sayed Sultan Idris, Malaysian Ambassador, prior to her departure from the kingdom. The dinner was held at Nadia's residence in Jasra last month

Nadia with Zarinah

Zulfiya, Zarinah, Farhat, Noshin & Nadia

Eleeza, Haniza, Esza, Azwina, Zarinah, Nadia, Zaiton & Misha

Hideko, Zarinah & Marlies

Masuma, Fatima

Rosita, Zarinah, Sukma & Nadia

Doris & Nadia

Aizzaty, Zarinah & Azzah

Rina & Lea

Sameera

BTM September 2011 103

motoringthismonth

Kia Picanto

Compact Added Value All-new power trains, with low emissions and enhanced economy, coupled with ‘large car’ comfort and safety features define the all-new 2012 Kia Picanto.

Kia Motors has recently unveiled the latest Picanto model, offering the latest generation in technology and features within this compact hatchback.

Customers will benefit from the next generation Picanto’s greatly reduced CO2 emissions and improved fuel economy; this Picanto is the only model in Europe with an official ‘Ultra Low Fuel Consumption’ rating.

Making its global premiere at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, the new Picanto has been redesigned and re-engineered with stand-out styling that conveys a sense of solidity and maturity. Longer than the previous model, and with an extended wheelbase, it promises more passenger comfort and 27 per cent increased cargo space.

Offered for the first time with a choice of five-door and threedoor body styles, it is set to completely redefine its position as one of the most competitive vehicles in the global ‘city car’ A-segment. In Bahrain, the car will be available in two trims.

The 2012 Picanto comes with 1.2-litre four-cylinder gasoline Kappa power unit, with 87 hp, and a four-speed AT Steptronic transmission system. Exhaust emissions have been significantly reduced so that regular models in the new line-up will have a CO2 rating of 95 to 105 g/km. Fuel economy will range from 4.2 to 5.9 litres per 100 km, contributing to lower running costs.

As well as offering new levels of power train efficiency, it boasts a distinctive exterior, sophisticated interior, and numerous ‘large car’ advanced comfort and safety features like LED daytime running lights. The car is also packed full of hightech features such as the Kia occupant safety shell design and dual airbags.

Other features include an electric Sunroof, 15-inch alloy wheels, ABS brakes, fog lamps with projection beam head lamp, steering wheel mounted audio controls, a CD player with MP3, auto air-conditioning and foldable rear seats.

E Call 17 408-800 or visit www.binhindi.com.

Also this month

106 x Showcase

Business Grunt The Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG has always been the businessman’s dirty secret. A pinstriped wolf in sheep’s clothing, the thunderous AMG sports saloon masquerades as a refined and palatial vehicle for the corner-office elite.

Yet beneath its distinguished exterior lies its true character; a huffing, snorting mechanical beast, ever-ready to devour its more placid contemporaries. Now even more powerful and efficient, the new generation car has taken its predatory nature to a new level, with an AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine.

The E 63 AMG will be available as saloon and estate variants in the last quarter of this year.

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motoringshowcase

e.k. kanoo

Eye-catching Coupé Successfully blending aggressive style and outstanding performance, the Toyota Zelas will pull all eyes toward you.

Are you working on creating a new identity — one that suggests power, one that hints an endless source of energy?

With the latest marvel from Toyota stepping foot in Bahrain, this shouldn’t be a difficult feat to achieve.

Ebrahim K Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus on the island, now offers a dynamic, fuel efficient and sporty coupé — the Toyota Zelas. Its premium styling and features redefine its segment to meet the desires of the evolving sports coupé buyers.

Although it boasts aggressive styling with new technologies, its most appealing aspect is the impressive driving performance that adds to the experience. Take it for a drive and you’ll know what they mean by ‘a coupé that stands out’.

If you’re one of those who’d love to rule the road, show off your skills behind the wheel with this mean machine. Sporting so much power, it’s hard not to be charged up when you step your foot on the pedal.

Under the hood The Zelas comes with a high performance 178 hp, 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder VVT-i engine that offers the latest in efficient, lightweight technology, including an electronic power-steering system that contributes to increased fuel efficiency. This exciting coupé enters the market riding on an enhanced platform, as its 17-inch aluminium-alloy wheels are wrapped in wider tyres, giving it a broader stance and elevated handling characteristics.

Its forceful stance is complemented by the sleek cabin shape, front grille and projector headlamps. This sleek design then

106 September 2011 BTM

carries over to the interior with a look and feel that is sophisticated, sporty and functional; comfort and convenience are enhanced with a driver-centred cockpit.

The Zelas comes with comprehensive and premium safety features such as eight SRS airbags for the driver, front passenger and rear seats. It also includes as standard anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution; an additional button allows the driver to turn off the vehicle stability control feature. It also includes newly-adopted active front headrests.

A lasting presence Toyota has a long-standing history in the Kingdom of Bahrain as its success stems from engineering vehicles with the highest levels of aerodynamics, performance, smooth ride, road handling, interior ergonomics, fuel efficiency, safety and reliability. Today, it has a substantial presence in all the customer segments and offers highly attractive models which include high performance and elegant sedans, dynamic utility vehicles, and youthful coupés.

E Call 17 730-730 or visit www.toyota.com.bh.

EURO MOTORS

Mini-malist and Chic A small car in size but big on space, design and personality, the MINI is iconic, ageless and cheeky. We take a closer look into the brand.

Arguably one of the most-loved and unique cars in the history of motoring, the MINI remains an icon of the 1960s. Design definitely played a major part in it becoming an object and subject of obsession for so many creative types. New interpretations of the classic shape evolved quickly. Numerous special versions of the classic MINI entered the market during the ‘70s with all kinds of highlights — from sporty to trendy, from distinguished to fresh.

A new chapter BMW has since modernised the British classic and brought it back into the forefront of design and innovation. Meeting lifestyle requirements in terms of interior space, the design of the new model clearly retained the original proportions, as well as the unmistakable design icons at the front, rear and side.

With its fusion of vintage appeal and modern convenience, it introduced a new era of power and performance, boasting the most advanced and sophisticated drive train and suspension technologies on a compact car at the time.

The wheel came full circle in 2007 when the automotive brand took a bold decision and decided to extend the product range with the MINI Clubman. This is 24 cm longer than its forerunner and features a unique “club door” on the right hand side. This new quirky feature gave passengers comfortable access in and out of the back of the car. To the back, a split door had also been incorporated, an authentic detail from its predecessors.

Reinvention Earlier this year, the MINI was named ‘Car of the Decade’. Experts had found that no other model has had a greater influence on the development of the automobile industry since the start of the 21st century than the premium segment’s first small car.

With the relaunch of the brand and the concept of a premium small car combining expressive design and exceptionally agile handling with almost endless possibilities for individualisation, the BMW Group made a highly successful venture into a new market segment.

The family was now been joined by the MINI Countryman.

This, the first-of-its-kind with four doors and a large tailgate, delivers the brand’s characteristic driving fun outside of urban traffic scenarios. It is even available with MINI all-wheel drive.

State-of-the-art engines and comprehensive minimalism technology allow excitement and driving fun to be combined with exemplary consumption and emission ratings. The fact that this small British car is also ecologically correct rounds off the image of this consistently successful pioneer in the premium small car segment.

E Call 17 750-750.

BTM September 2011 107

motoringshowcase

MERCEDES-BENZ

Protecting Your Dream Now that the car of your dreams sleeps snugly in your garage, you’re probably wondering how to keep her in good shape, forever. Here’s how.

Mercedes-Benz did not win its prestige for its sleek designs and flawless functioning alone. They can proudly claim the title as a leader in the world of automotive wonders thanks to its premium after-sales service.

With a priceless car such as yours, no ordinary workshop will do it any justice. This is where Mercedes-Benz has come up with a solution that meets all your mechanical needs. Guard your vehicle with their Integrated Service Package which attends to every intricate part assuring a smooth drive for life.

Maintaining the motor This exclusive, hassle-free package of the automotive brand provides for the basic maintenance service of your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommendation for a period of five years or 105,000 kilometres — free of charge. It is designed to help maintain your new vehicle at the optimum operating condition for the best performance. All you have to do is simply book a service appointment and visit your authorised MercedesBenz workshop at the designated intervals.

They will ensure that it is sustained according to the manufacturer’s recommendation and taken care of by the brand’s certified technicians, and guarantee that only genuine spare parts and approved care products are used during the service of your car.

The service, understandably, excludes parts of wear and tear and accident repairs. The package, however, covers everything from engine oil and filter change, and replacement of combination/charcoal filters, coolants and brake fluids to checking the bodywork for paint damages and even cleaning the air-conditioning system. E Call 17 785-454.

108 September 2011 BTM

ISP: Scope of Coverage:

S-Class

GL

Engine oil and filter change

•

•

Replace air filter element

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•

Add fuel keropur additive

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•

•

•

Replace combination/charcoal filter

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•

Clean interior Air-con system

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Check bodywork for paint damage

•

•

Check chassis and load-bearing panels

•

•

Replace brake fluid

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Every 15,000 km or every year

Every 30,000 km or every year Sun-roof: clean and lubricate Every 30,000 km or every two years

Every two years:

Every three years Replace coolant Every 60,000 km Oil and filter change for transmission Every 60,000 km or every two years Replace spark plugs Every 90,000 km or every four years Replace V-belt (S400 hybrid model)

•

Every five years Replace fuel filter

•

•

Replace coolant

•

•

Y. K. ALMOAYYED & SONS

Challenging Complacency The all-new Nissan Juke combines attitude, irreverence, modish style and energy with a mischievous sense of fun — aimed at a younger market bored with lookalike hatchbacks.

Aimed at a younger market bored with look-alike hatchbacks, the Nissan Juke offers a distinctively different style statement for younger drivers. It is pitched as a baby brother to Qashqai and Murano.

“Juke brings a sense of adventure to the car market. It’s light, nimble, urban, reactive; qualities designed to grab a younger audience,” says Declan McCluskey, automotive group general manager at Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons. “It offers something entirely new to the traditional C and crossover segments and cements Nissan’s reputation as a carmaker prepared to do something different.”

Like its bigger brothers, Juke is a distinctive combination of SUV toughness and sporting style. Conceived to inject some masculinity and dynamism into the small car market, the vehicle combines a number of seeming contradictions beneath its highly individual lines.

Exterior design From a design standpoint, the lower portion of Juke is pure SUV. It combines chunky wheels, wide tyres, extended ground clearance and a robust stance with a top portion that is unadulterated sports car, with a high waistline, slim visor-like side glass graphics and a coupé-style falling roofline. The coupé effect is further underlined by the rear doors which have their handles hidden in the frame of the door.

A seven colour palette of exterior colours is available for Juke, including pearl white and two shades unique to this model — cayenne red and machine brown.

Interior styling Juke’s active, sporting exterior is matched by its interior. Inside, the sports car theme continues with a cockpit oriented cabin dominated by a centre console design inspired by a motorcycle

fuel tank. Finished in a distinctive high gloss colour — metallic red or grey — the ‘bike’ console adds a sense of fun to the car.

The gear shift sits close to the steering wheel on the top of the ‘superbike fuel tank’ to guarantee quick, slick changes, while the ‘tank’ itself is no mere styling statement but also provides a bracing point for the driver’s knee during spirited cornering.

I-CON is Juke’s advanced driver central command and information system which allows the driver to alter the car’s dynamic settings as well as make changes to more obvious functions such as climate control.

Under the hood Juke is offered with a choice of two petrol engines; a 1.6-litre gasoline and a 1.6-litre direct injection gasoline turbo engine.

Depending on the engine, each setting alters throttle maps, CVT shift schedules, steering effort and even air conditioning performance to suit the conditions and driver’s wishes. In the D-Mode Sport setting, for example, the throttle map is retuned to deliver higher engine revs and sharper response, while in the Eco setting, engine revs are reduced for more gentle progress. In the M-CVT version of the DIG-T engine Juke, the Sport setting even introduces a ‘rhythmic’ auto up shift that simulates manual changes at the red-line.

Juke drives as well as it looks. Nissan has created a reputation for cars that offer genuine driving dynamics, and Juke is no exception. Just about the only traditional aspect of Juke is the model line-up, which follows Nissan’s S and SL lines.

The move up to SL grade from the entry level S adds a number of important items of standard equipment, such as front fog lamps, leather covered steering wheel and cruise control.

E Call 17 732-732.

BTM September 2011 109

homemarketplace

Home Solutions GULF ASSIST

As a market leader in travel and roadside assistance, Gulf Assist is now expanding its solution service to provide emergency assistance within the home.

Since its formation in 1994, Gulf Assist has been solutions for travel and roadside problems, providing instant assistance to get your vehicle up and running quickly. Gulf Assist, conveniently located in Manama, has always strived to ensure that each client is offered reliability, quality and satisfaction with an up-to-date management system.

Home assistance Now the company has transferred the same service philosophy to provide aid within the home, whether the fridge is broken, the locks need changing, or the pipes have burst. The company has a whole range of professionals on hand 24/7 to help you when you need it.

The scheme is designed to save you time and money; by providing the correct information, sourced directly from the company’s national network of home professionals, should you encounter a problem within your house. Plumbers, locksmiths, electricians and glass repairmen are just some of the certified experts who are on hand to help you out. Upon receiving your call, Gulf Assist will dispatch somebody immediately to survey and rectify your home emergency.

110 September 2011 BTM

The company offers a number of reasons as to why you should bank on its reliability. There is a 24-hour call-handling promise to ensure every request is taken, leaving you with peace of mind that your home problem will be dealt with as soon as possible. You will be guaranteed a home professional's network contractor will carry out the necessary repairs, ensuring that the job is well done and long-lasting.

Gulf Assist also carries out a full report at every home visited; photographs are taken to assess every incident, the damage created and repairs needed. Additionally, from time to time, random supervision of the finalised work is also conducted to guarantee each contractor is carrying out a thorough job.

Gulf Assist is part of the Mapfre Group which, in conjunction with five leading insurance companies within the GCC, also has significant experience of home assistance in its home country of Spain. It is through Mapfre Asistencia, a company specifically established to deal with matters of the home, with which Gulf Assist has set up this new division.

E Call 17 218-899 or visit www.gulfassist.com.

diningthismonth

Mei n Yu

Personal Dining James Claire Mei n Yu is intimate perfection created by a man who has used a long career in hospitality to truly hone the art of dining and entertainment for us all to enjoy.

George Cherian is no stranger in Bahrain’s hospitality industry.

He is well-known by those of us who have ventured into Adliya’s dining district over the past few decades, where he managed one of the premier restaurants there.

Hospitable, professional, amiable; the manner in which he greets customers makes George is almost as much a reason to go to any venue he works, as the food. Reason enough that his newest venture at The Lagoon dining precinct, on Amwaj Islands, is called Mei n Yu. A recent dinner together with George to discuss one of his newest restaurant lounge ventures felt as comfortable as the name states.

A 30-year resident of Bahrain, George is a native of Malaysia and came to Bahrain to sell real estate. Somewhere along life’s journey he fell into restaurant management and has been in love with the hospitality industry ever since. Today, with business partner Nadeem Asgharali, they are looking to change the way in which we eat with small intimate dining experiences; two of which are at Amwaj Lagoon. There is an azure blue Persian restaurant called The Persian Room and then there is Mei n Yu. Tastefully decorated, seating up to 40, inspiration has been Also this month

112 x F&B Happenings - 116 x Listings

drawn from the tales of Marco Polo’s travels along the ancient Silk Road; the menu, too, reflects the travels and regions traversed with food, wine and cocktails inspired from this glorious past.

Outside there is the patio, lavish and comfortable seating for up to 20 to relax in the lagoon’s breeze, with a perfect selection of music with which to chill, wind down and enjoy a beverage.

With simplistic interiors and hints of the Far and Middle East, the restaurant has an intimate, spacious ambience where, even when full, dining does not lose its intimacy.

An eclectic mix of dishes has been created by George, Nadeem and his executive chef Kavi. Thai crab cakes with coconut chilli sauce, cappuccino of wild mushrooms soup, chicken lettuce wraps, magret of duck, chicken ballantine, battered cod and home-made desserts are but a sampling from the selection on offer. Thirty years in hospitality has given George Cherian a taste for fine food and taste buds which know what will make his customers happy.

Dishes are inexpensive, a menu that is filled with options for all palettes and, from this writer’s point of view, a Teriyaki steak which is one of the island’s best-ever cooked steaks.

Residents of Amwaj are lucky to have such a perfect choice for quality food and can choose from home delivery or dine in, the rest of us need to find the time to visit. One enjoyable evening at Mei n Yu, however, will have you returning again and again, whether it is for the quality of the food and the mix of dishes on offer, the great choice of music, the exceptional service or for the outside lounge atmosphere.

Win Thai Night Out! This is your chance to enjoy the distinctive taste of the popular cuisine of Thailand during the Thai festival by dining at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain between September 17 to 24.

As part of the Thai Food Fair, at Silk’s Restaurant, the hotel will showcase different types of Thai cuisine and cocktails where one diner wins a round trip from Qatar Airways to the exotic Movenpick Hotel Phuket.

However, you can also enjoy the fine food on offer during the festival by simply visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com/ offer/movenpick; four lucky readers will receive two complimentary tickets each to some authentic Asian cuisine.

Further details of the festival are included on page 115.

BTM September 2011 111

diningf&bhappenings

Festival Month

Margharite Mexicana restaurant

The Gulf Hotel is treating diners to three cuisine festivals stretching throughout this month. Indulge in Mexican, Chinese and Thai dishes of all varieties.

Throughout September, The Gulf Hotel is holding three entirely different food festivals to tingle the taste buds. With a trio of cuisines there is sure to be something that will appeal to every diner. The Margharite Mexicana restaurant is holding a contemporary Mexican cuisine festival from September 5 to 30, offering a whole wealth of modern Mexican food — so expect some spice!

China Garden is inviting diners to sample the flavours of Shanghai with a celebration of Chinese dishes. The festival, which will run throughout September, will feature a special menu with tasty specialties specifically from Shanghai.

Alternatively, you can opt for a taste of Thailand with the 15-day Thai food festival in the Royal Thai restaurant. From September 15-30, never-before-seen curries will be rustled up to give diners new options and an alternative take on Thai food with the classics remaining.

New Chefs; New Cuisine Ideas Starting this month, The Intercontinental Regency is introducing a new chef, Vincenzo Di Tucci, and is sure to delight Medzo diners with the true taste of Italy.

The Crowne Plaza is unleashing, who hails from Lebanon who will be in-charge of the Waves Seafood Restaurant. Chef Maroun Hachem has previously worked for numerous fivestar hotel restaurants and has an extensive repertoire of Arabic cuisine.

Sofitel has two new chefs as of this month, and also two new restaurants opening; Pashawat, which is a traditional Arabic restaurant, and Wok, a South-East Asian restaurant.

Chef Markus Fisler has been taken on as the new executive sous chef and Chef Alaa Al Samran, will be the new chef de cuisine in Pashawat. At the Ramada, a new executive chef Rolland Gossler will be boosting the menu with panache and new menu ideas.

112 September 2011 BTM

New Menus If you are a fan of new tastes and dishes, then you won’t be disappointed as a number of hotels have been busy updating their menu. The Crowne Plaza has spoilt us with two new menus in its popular restaurants. Spices Indian restaurant have upgraded the menu to include some special dishes from head chef Arif, but if you were already a fan of the existing meal choices you won’t be disappointed as the Spices specialty dishes still remain. Additionally, Waves Seafood Restaurant has updated the menu to coincide with the grand re-opening this month and promises to provide diners with tantalising new tastes. Day’s Hotel is another venue to introduce a new menu, which will be established this month in the hotel’s restaurant.

When? September 28 | Event? Cigar Night | Venue? Trader Vic’s

Trader Vic’s

Of Cubans and Cigars Trader Vic’s introduces a new theme night this month; one that is sure to result in much huffing and puffing as the venue celebrates the Cuban cigar.

Trader Vic’s restaurant, lounge and bar, tucked quietly away lagoon-side at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel complex, is synonymous with a great night out on our island. It also happens to be the most successful outlet within the chain worldwide, and little wonder when the team at Trader Vic’s keeps enticing us with such amazing events as September has lined up for us.

With a renovation during Ramadan to liven up this Polynesian house of happiness, Trader Vic’s returns to us with new female band members all the way from Havana, to boost the rhythms of the already well known Cuban resident band "Riviera".

Cigar night When a Cuban general manager with hospitality heritage such as Alfredo Hernandez took charge of Trader Vic’s, it was only time before the magic of quality Cuban cigars came to the fore.

Cigar lovers can rejoice on Wednesday September 28 when the restaurant launches its first Cigar Night in conjunction with Fazco. For BD25 net per person, with a limited number of tickets available, cigar aficionados will receive complimentary cigars and accessories upon arrival.

The evening will include information about the cigars, their types and styles, gauges and vitolas. In addition to a welcome cocktail, the evening will highlight the award-winning Guatemalan rum, Zacapa, as well as fine beverages and the cigars to enjoy. A flying buffet, sampling the best of the

extensive culinary on offer will be served throughout the evening. Check out the ‘Cigar Diaries’ page on Facebook for further information.

Great food Modern, stylish and relaxed, Trader Vic’s has never relinquished on its key attribute to serve nothing but the best and finest ingredients, whether it is the dishes on the menu or the beverages available.

Many establishments around the world work hard to find a signature dish to highlight on their menu. At Trader Vic’s, the customers have created it themselves: in its 11-year history, despite the extensive culinary offerings, the chilli hammour has outsold every other dish, and is often the solitary reason people visit. With a new executive chef at the helm of the kitchen, Trader Vic's continues striving to enhance the freshness and authenticity of this popular menu item.

Alfredo Hernandez gives equal credit to his management and staff for the success of this exotic island style venue. New executive chef Jeffry Rocha, bar manager Roshan Mendonce, Cuban band leader Johnny Sharpe and the entire Trader Vic's staff, work hard to make what seems like a carefree, fun and relaxing atmosphere exactly that every time you visit.

E Call 17 586-555.

BTM September 2011 113

diningf&bhappenings PASSION FOR DESSERT

Sweet Treats

The second branch of patisserie Passion for Dessert has recently opened in Seef Mall, accompanied by sweet aromas and mouth-watering cakes.

ESQUIRES COFFEE HOUSE

Esquires Coffee House upholds a 100 per cent organic coffee remit, and ensures every customer experiences good quality and divine flavour in their freshly-ground cup of coffee. The coffee shop’s slogan, ‘great coffee helps’ underlines the fairtrade policy that it delivers; guaranteeing fairness for both the farmer and customer.

Esquires’ regional director, Niraz Al-Ali, is certain that the rich flavours entice customers to return, stating, “We are trying to educate people about fair-trade and, once they taste the coffee, they will definitely come back for more.”

The café is a convenient spot for families to spend a few hours, with an enclosed playground area to keep the kids happy while the adults relax. An expansive menu offers a range of options, including 35 drink varieties of smoothies, herbal teas and, of course, coffee.

Originally from Canada, Esquires has made an international name for itself, and plans to open a further 11 branches here in Bahrain. The same interior design is used globally, with the iconic fair-trade colours of blue, brown and cream, to create a relaxing atmosphere; moreover, the beautiful garden seating area will be lovely in the cooler weather for a moment of fresh air.

Already open until 10pm, Esquires plans to eventually be open 24/7, providing much needed refreshment for anyone at any time. Future plans also include building a restaurant and shopping area, creating a meeting destination to shop, eat and socialise with complete ease.

E Call 77 177-660.

Fresh Flavours Standing out along Budaiya Highway with a contemporary look; Esquires Coffee House is one-of-a-kind with both fair-trade coffee and exquisite taste.

114 September 2011 BTM

As the latest addition to Seef Mall’s extensive dining options, Passion for Dessert is open for business to feed any dessert fanatic’s addiction. The café specialises in desserts of all kinds, including the trendiest sweet snack of them all, the cupcake.

Supporting the pre-existing branch in Reef Mall, Hamad Town, Passion for Dessert acts as a convenient and delicious meeting point for friends, family, meetings or just to grab a quick snack.

All of the food is baked or cooked from scratch daily, using fresh ingredients and the sweet aromas will easily entice you in. The menu is extensive; sweet treats include cookies of all varieties, cakes and, of course, a huge choice of cupcakes with over 25 flavours ranging from rose to chocolate date. Aside from sugary snacks, Passion for Dessert also serves salads, sandwiches and an array of drinks.

Additionally, you can take away your favourite item or have a cake made specifically for a special occasion. The café makes cakes to celebrate graduations, weddings, birthdays and much more; simply select the flavour and topping you want and the cooks will get baking to create the perfect cake. Kids can also get involved with decorating their own cupcakes as part of a birthday party or special occasion.

Passion for Dessert aims to be different from other cafés by bringing together good tastes, good times and good friends — head on over to Seef Mall to check it out. E Call 17 630-030.

When? September 17-24 | Event? Thai festival | Venue? Mövenpick Hotel

MÖVENPICK HOTEL

A Thai Experience The Mövenpick strives to offer guests cuisine options; this month Thailand arrives at the hotel, with a combination of food, culture and entertainment.

The Mövenpick Hotel awakens with a bang this month, with a Thai Food and Culture Festival. After the success of last year, the hotel is repeating the festival from September 18 to 24 in collaboration with the Thai Embassy.

The week-long event is destined to be delicious, with the arrival of three Thai chefs from the Mövenpick’s sister property in Phuket. The chefs will be rustling up the true taste of Thailand for guests every evening in Silk’s restaurant.

“The atmosphere will be alive with tantalising smells and mouth-watering tastes” says food and beverage manager Francesco Agus. “Five cooking stations will be dotted around Silk’s, each serving different courses and meals; a truly interactive and atmospheric experience.”

There will be cooking stations for starters, of shrimps and fresh salads, and seafood and fruit salad stations. Situated in the main lobby in direct line of the entrance will also be a fruit-carving station, where one of the chefs will be showing off his fruitcarving talents and enchanting guests as soon as they walk in.

To add to the ambience, Thai artifacts and sculptures will be placed inside and around Silk’s restaurant to ensure guests enjoy a truly authentic Thai evening. A seven-piece entertainment group is also coming over from Thailand for the occasion, and will perform traditional Thai dances to entertain diners, with half-hour performances and 8, 9 and 10 o’clock.

Klouds Restaurant

Cooking lessons Throughout the week, there will also be cooking classes available, which Francesco highlights as a significant, fun and memorable part of the festival.

“We have guests from last year already eager to sign up for this year,” he reveals. “Participants will learn to cook traditional Thai dishes and will then be able to eat their creations as their lunch. They will also take their recipe home so they can make their meal again and again.”

The classes will take place, from 9am-1pm, over three days — September 19, 20 and 21 — with space for 12 people at each, and includes lunch.

Competition Francesco has also arranged for guests involved in the Thai festival to grab the chance to win a week’s stay at the Phuket Mövenpick with free flights on Qatar Airways.

“The hotel is truly magnificent, and a tranquil getaway; this is a dream holiday to win,” Francesco explains.

Guests can enter by simply filling in a questionnaire and the draw for the winner will take place on the last evening of the festival.

E Call 17 460-000.

BTM September 2011 115

restaurantlisting American Bennigan’s Burger Lounge Burger Wisconsin Chili House Chili’s Franks a Lot Fuddruckers Hard Rock Café Johnny Rockets Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Ponderosa Steak Escape T.G.I.Friday’s Tony Luke’s

European 17 813-750 77 055-772 17 594-458 17 580-045 17 581-221 17 811-970 17 742-266 17 291-569 17 566-565 17 725-550 17 580-552 17 178-464 17 179-041 17 494-940

Asian Bambu!

Chin Li Chop-Chop Tea House Curry Country Hot Wok House Boat Kontiki Memories Mo Kan Monsoon Nu Asia Papaya Peppers Rice Bowl Thai Chi

17 714-424 17 717-717 17 178-701 17 537-555 17 178-083 77 033-444 17 525-455 17 178-646 17 360-000 17 749-222 17 587-171 17 697-105 17 717-808 17 179-600 17 179-747

Block 338 Camelot Coco’s Cyprus Taverna Déjà Vu L’Avenue Le Pain Quotidien Mezzaluna Paul Café Sizzlers Zytoun

17 710-338 17 717-745 17 716-512 17 716-316 13 657-770 17 567-222 17 179-734 17 742-999 17 172-321 17 716-999 17 298-008

Filipino Bahay Kubo Borakay Chuckay Fast Food Flamingo Kowloon Lutong Pinoy Quick Stomach Swan Lake Tops

17 231-996 17 514-400 17 532-250 17 231-106 17 224-357 17 295-540 17 232-382 17 291-655 17 237-768 17 277-665

Fusion Fusions L’Ile

17 746-427 17 845-000

Indian Aachi’s Chettinad Kitchen 17 233-110 Akbar 17 296-660

Rendezvous Salad Boutique The Crepe Café Upstairs Downstairs Zoe

17 178-712 36 664-427 17 820-722 17 713-093 17 176-400

International (5 Star Hotel) Al Safir Al Waha Al Wasmeyyah La Mediterranee La Mosaique Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya Selections Silk’s

17 524-538 17 746-425 17 535-000 17 580-000 17 531-122 17 525-214 17 845-000 17 636-410 17 227-777 17 460-055

International (4 Star Hotel) Café California Café Marisol Café Sayah Chaq’s Grill Fusion Café Grand Café Il Giardino Klouds La Brasserie La Café Le Jardin Neyran Palm Parsia Ramee Bistro Ramee Café Red Café Savoy Café Temptations (EGH) Temptations (ESH) Tiffany’s

17 826-001 17 701-201 17 224-000 17 290-555 17 811-688 17 727-230 17 583-388 17 360-000 17 313-333 17 810-555 17 742-000 17 584-400 17 296-699 17 814-777 17 290-600 17 297-000 17 296-660 17 827-999 17 565-888 17 558-888 17 716-999

Iranian Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill Tian Yum Chow!

17 717-080 17 744-900

Brazilian Brasa de Brasil Brazil Rodizio Grill

17 582-225 17 826-686

Chinese Beijing Chinese China Express China Garden Ching First Chinese Foli Hong Kong Magic Wok Shanghai Hut Soie

17 717-969 17 717-439 17 746-423 17 564-424 17 713-603 17 722-199 17 728-700 17 506-070 17 292-988 17 533-533

Café Restaurants Café T Camille’s Sidewalk Café Delifrance Le Bateau Le Chocolat Lina’s Café Rosa Verge Skyw@lk Café

17 750-777 17 339-508 17 696-031 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538 13 667-777 17 363-999

Asha’s Clay Oven Copper Chimney Curry Tree It’s Mirchi Lanterns Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Spices The Great Kabab Factory

17 179-751 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662 17 727-230 17 590-591 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 531-122 17 690-629

Indian/Pakistani B-B-Q Delights Chutney’s

17 564-282 17 591-259

International East West Cuisine Healthy Calorie Jim’s Restaurant La Fontaine Links Little Chef/Wholesale Mei n Yu Muju Nando’s

17 210-012 17 369-399 17 710-654 17 230-123 17 751-262 17 595-950 16 010-160 16 039-800 17 825-339

17 524-579 17 369-269 17 811-511 17 580-600 17 746-431 17 555-989

17 583-373

Waves

17 531-122

17 290-945

Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

Korean Arirang

Steak Houses

Lebanese Abd El Wahab Al Areesha Al Arz Al Hamra Palace Café Blanc Carla’s Lebanese Bistro L’Sultan Mashawi Lebanese Grill Qasr Al Sultan Grill Rayés Saj Express Shoo Fee Ma Fee Yamin Jana Zahle Zayt Zaytoon

17 311-111 17 725-414 17 296-660 17 224-000 17 100-069 17 697-687 17 567-222 17 506-070 17 179-500 17 312-700 17 365-055 17 311-280 16 033-800 17 746-417 17 312-222

Mexican Casa Mexicana Margarita Mexicana Senor Paco’s

Shawarma

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873

Middle Eastern Al Abraaj

17 178-090

Al-Bokhari Leewan Al Khor Melh Alzad Taza

17 311-186 16 010-666 17 311-170 17 784-997

Klouds Le Relais De Venise Legendz Plums The Butcher Shop & Grill The Meat Co

17 360-000 17 567-222 17 227-777 17 580-000 17 172-323 17 742-080

Thai Baan Saeng Thai Banana Leaf Hash House Lanna Thai Muay Thai Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

17 715-775 17 744-171 17 715-094 17 593-940 77 040-454 17 746-421 17 721-155 17 506-070 17 717-040 17 710-771

Turkish Anatolia Iskenderun Grill Kosebasi

17 690-601 17 292-950 17 172-322

Italian Biella Café & Pizzeria Café Italia Caffe Spasso Capri Carino’s Italian Grill Castello Cico’s Ciro’s Pomodoro Fiamma Italiano Justapasta La Pergola La Taverna Medzo Mia Mia Mino’s Pizzeria Mondo Nino Oliveto Pastarito Ristoranti Prego Primavera Roma Romano’s Macaroni Grill Terrazza Bistro Veneto

17 178-703 17 744-774 17 822-274 17 697-707 17 587-878 17 697-552 17 713-710 17 534-567 17 636-414 17 581-919 17 506-070 17 746-419 17 229-979 17 227-777 17 564-414 17 744-777 17 525-484 17 566-555 17 716-747 17 179-300 17 751-263 17 580-000 17 725-885 17 506-070 17 360-000 17 680-967

Japanese Bushido Edo Frangipani Fuji Sushi Bar Hakisushi I Love Sushi Kei Maki Mirai Sato Sugoi Sumo Sushi & Bento Sushi 101

116 September 2011 BTM

Yo! Sushi

17 583-555 17 290-945 17 582-422 17 533-336 17 725-638 17 300-610 17 533-450 17 522-733 17 713-113 17 746-429 17 178-084 17 718-090 17 822-274

Moroccan Momo

17 180-659

Pizza Little Caesars Metro Pizza Papa John’s Pizza Express Pizza Hut Pizza Inn Pizzabella Speezza The Pizza Company

17 179-400 17 794-000 17 581-516 17 742-299 17 711-113 17 811-666 17 827-133 17 826-222 17 811-830

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

17 586-555

Seafood Afandi Far East Seafood Market Fish Market La Marine La Mer La Perle Seafood Market Totally Fish

17 849-111 17 727-230 17 701-201 17 595-775 17 636-411 17 298-008 17 533-336 17 179-757

Quick Service Restaurants Burger King Burgerland Chickey’s DQ Grill & Chill EZ Take out Burger Hardee’s Herfy Jasmi’s Kentucky Fried Chicken Kudu New York Fries McDonald’s Pollo Campero Tasty Bite

17 506-070 17 713-778 17 257-778 17 506-070 17 241-111 17 711-112 17 243-115 17 727-887 17 711-111 17 717-542 17 178-436 17 811-812 17 161-716 17 714-972

Eating Out listings Note: Whilst every effort is made to cover all leading restaurant outlets in Bahrain, the details listed are based upon replies to our survey. BTM cannot accept any responsibility or liability for inaccurate information: we recommend you check with the restaurant to reconfirm their listing.

Sakana Ghabga More than 100 people attended a ghabga held by Sakana Holistic Housing Solutions at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain last month. Present were officials, employees, partners and guests

Abdul Karim Bucheery & R. Lakshmanan

B.0D 00

Basma & Bushra

2 Mohammed Wasif & Abdul Hakim Al Mutawa Redha & Kelly

Ayat & Kamal

Noora, Hadeel & Maysa

Ashok, Jake, Jean, Sasha & Alistair

K.K. Jose, P.V. Thomas & Mistry N.

Ahmed Abdul Rahim

Nader, Abdulla & Mamdooh

Mohamed Hussain

City Center: 3931 1473, Riffa: 1762 7244, Juffair: 1781 1333, Arad: 1767 2120

BTM September 2011 117

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Diyar Al Muharraq Ghabga Diyar Al Muharraq, one of the biggest mixed-use residential urban developments in Bahrain, held a Ramadan Ghabga night for members of Bahrain’s media at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. The members of the media were received by senior management from Diyar Al Muharraq, who thanked them for their coverage and support for the development’s progress and activities Nader, Mahmood, Mandeep, Aaref Hejres, CEO of Diyar Al Muharraq, Avinash & Rasool

Alfonso Far, Dalal Kaiksow & Abdulrahman Al Jowder Allison & Simone

Radhi, Vinod & Issa

118 September 2011 BTM

Salah, Waleed & Khalid

Rhizlaine

Osama & Hasan

Fatima & Zaina

Azadea Group Iftar The Azadea Group held an Iftar for members of their staff at the group's Kosebasi and Butcher Shop & Grill Restaurant in Bahrain City Centre during the Holy Month of Ramadan Hassan, Ali & Ali

Mohammed & Ali

Rhona, Gel & Hein

Wissam & Hassan

Ram & Milton

Fadi & Jamal with Jawad Y. Al Hawaj

Raji, Prabha, Walid, Ramya & Chethana

Lucien & Johnny

Joseph, Marwa & Faris

Ali & Sadiq

Michel

Dyaa, Ghassan & Mishal

BTM September 2011 119

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Royal Bahrain Hospital Iftar Royal Bahrain Hospital held an Iftar party for staff members at the hospital located in Salmaniya

Mathew, Boban, Soman, Dr Singh, Jacob, Dr Umesh, Dr Avneesh & Dr Ravi Shankar

Jennifer, Dr Latha & Dr Renny

Dr Anisa & Afreen

Naveed, Ishra, Usma, Faiza & Hina

Rizzy, Reem, Fatima, Seeja, Melissa & Nilofer

Amr, Rawan & Abeer

Catherine & Caroline

120 September 2011 BTM

Fatima, Fakarya & Tahani

Hansu, Vafeeqa, Deepthi & Dinu

Reem & Rizzy

Ritz-Carlton Iftar The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa held an Iftar party for a number of guests at the hotel's Al Khayma Tent during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Clare, Erwin, Albertine & Aart

Abbas & Marwan

Ala, Nezar & Samer Andrew & Dilip

Oguzhon & Sinem

David & George

Hassaan

Michael, Vivian, Hassaan, Dilip & Mohammed

Joanna, Rhea, Rajeev, Jarelice & Lalain

Shaikh Ziyad Al Khalifa & Dilip

Habibi, Jennifer & Mishaal

BTM September 2011 121

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Nigel Viegas, director, Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail (BIHR) organised a visit for students of the Institute to the Pars International Hotel in Juffair. The students were given a brief history of the hotel and an insight into the functioning of the different departments of the hotel. The students also toured the hotel which included guest rooms, public areas, and various operational departments. Seen here, Nigel Viegas, 6th from right, and students with Pars Hotel managers

AMA International University Bahrain (AMAIUB) held its second Career Day last month. Seen here at the ribbon cutting are HE Dr Abdullah A. Mansoor, Undersecretary of Commerce of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, AMA senior staff members and officials

The Diva Hotel in Juffair has joined hands with Bahrain Air as the airline's partner hotel, to accommodate guests, staff and passengers at competitive rates. Seen here are, sitting from left, Waleed, sales manager Diva, Naeem Mahamoor, marketing manager, Bahrain Air, Shankar Bharadwaj, general manager, Diva, & Amitabh Mathur, director, Gama. Standing from left, Fahad Mustafan, marketing officer, Bahrain Air, Captain Ibrahim Al Hamer, managing director, Bahrain Air, Abdulaziz Al Shaer, senior manager, Bahrain Air, Ahmed Al Binali, customer service, Bahrain Air & Bahrain Air flight attendents Imran Al Aradi, the one name that defines the entertainment scene in Bahrain has been a major player in the industry for the past 5 years as a stand-up comic and is a popular Radio Bahrain 96.5 FM DJ. He has now teamed up with Bahrain’s finest to bring audiences an unparalleled comedy platform. Imran, Bahrain’s favourite ‘funny man’ has signed up with Punchline Middle East, a Bahrain-based entertainment & events company. Punchline is also geared up to become the number one talent management agency in the region

122 September 2011 BTM

Gulf Air, officially received its IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certificate from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) last week, Seen here, Capt. Nasser Al Salmi (c.) Gulf Air chief operations officer receiving the certificate

The SKAL Club as part of it's charity activities distributed staple food items for 360 needy Bahraini families during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Seen here, SKAL board members with the food items ready for distribution

The DreamBody Centre, Bahrain’s first and only 23 minute weight loss and fitness centre will move from Hamala to the Bahrain Mall in the next few months. Seen here are, Michael Simmelink, Bahrain Mall manager & Suhail Algosaibi, DreamBody Centre founder

Shantharam Shetty Dinner Shantharam & Ashalatha Shetty hosted a dinner party for a number of their friends at their residence in Juffair last month. HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & his wife Mala Kumar also attended the dinner

HE Mohan Kumar & Shantharam

M.R. Venkatesh Murthy, George, Steve Atherton & Shantharam

Vijayendra Shetty, Nadeem, Ashalatha & Ashish

Ravi

Smitha & Aarush

HE Mohan Kumar & Mala Kumar with Ashish, Ashalatha, Shantharam & Dheeptha Shetty

Mala, Meera & Uma

Mr & Mrs Soman Baby

Uma Venkatesh Murthy, Ashalatha & Anne

Ignatius & Florine

Amol & Ajaykumar

BTM September 2011 123

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InterContinental Regency Ghabga The InterContinental Regency Bahrain held a ghabga for a number of guests at the hotel's Ramadan tent during the Holy Month Christa, Christine & Cyril

Fadel & Houda

Lavina, Diana & Shani

Lebart & Garcia

Cyril, Madeleine & Ali

Anne, Alex, Charlie, Andrea & George

Abigail, Houda & Noor

Always at your disposal

Shafkat

Bless & David

Anne, Sarah, Houda, Margaret & Vanessa

Offers available: 1. Circuit training session: kickboxing, mixed exercise for punching techniques, move, cardio, stamina and strength exercise‌.

2. Personal training: A) Fitness programs: burning fats, metabolic acceleration, strengthening muscles B) Recreation program: a combination of different exercise to raise the basic physiological functions of your body.

C) Kick-boxing training: punching technique, movement, stamina, strength...

Personal training programs intended for age groups from 7 to 75 years based strictly on individual health assessment.

Facilities available: Cardiovascular equipment, isotonic equipment, exercise equipments like olympic bench, weights and dumbbells, adjustable benches and racks. Plus jacuzzi, steam room and swimming pool.

124 September 2011 BTM

For further information visit us at Juffair Fitness Center, next to Bahrain Medical Society, Juffair.

Or call us: Mobile: 33002592, Tel: 77072220, E-mail: jfcenter@hotmail.com

afterdarkthismonth When? September 29 | Event? FTV show | Venue? Bushido

Bushido

The Place to Party Bushido has a reputation for sophisticated and entertaining events; a new affiliation simply enhances the venue’s status on the local ‘after dark’ scene.

Bushido Japanese Restaurant and Lounge is bursting with exciting new events and offers starting this September. Located in the Seef area, Bushido is renowned for its delicious Japanese cuisine and fantastic line-up of international DJs. The management team has worked hard to secure their spot at the forefront of the Bahrain social scene, and is ranked as one of the top five lounges in the Middle East.

Nicolas Budzynski, general manager at Bushido, notes, “we always want to offer more to our guests, through consistency, customer service, atmosphere, food and unique events to excite all.”

Lounge

Also this month

FTV collaboration Since opening, Bushido has hosted some of the biggest celebrities visiting the island and organised some of the best events here.

Upping its own game, it has now signed an 18-month contract with the Fashion TV (FTV) International, one of the most recognised and popular fashion media brands in the world.

Bushido will be hosting at least two FTV events before the end of the year, and three in 2012. The first event, held on September 29, is set to be spectacular. In addition to a live fashion show, official Buddha Bar DJ Ravin will be spinning the decks on the night.

Nicolas promises it is an event not to be missed. “Our main priority is the quality of service, product and entertainment that we deliver to our guests at each Bushido experience. We will make all necessary efforts at the event to really amaze our crowd on the night and the addition of FTV to our portfolio or activity will help us reach our goals,” he says.

Arabian electro After a few months of closure, Bushido’s upstairs lounge is now reopen enabling guests to enjoy entertainment separate from guests dining in the downstairs restaurant. The lounge is celebrating its reopening on September 8, with guest Lebanese DJ Said Mrad, the pioneer of Arabic electronic dance music.

More details can be found on Bushido’s Facebook page, another area in which Nicolas and his team take great pride. A new and upgraded interactive and user-friendly website, linked to a host of social media channels, will be introduced shortly.

E Call 17 583-555.

When? September 8 Event? DJ Mrad party Venue? Bushido Arabian electronic dance music Guru DJ Mrad will be performing for one night only.

E Call 17 583-555.

When? September 8 Event? Amy Winehouse tribute Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant and Bar A tribute night for the late contemporary jazz singer, Amy Winehouse.

E Call 39 329-083.

When? September 8 Event? Unleashed Venue? Barcode, City Centre Hotel The Kingdom’s top metal bands will be rocking out on stage at Barcode.

E Call 36 374-554.

When? September 16 Event? Beatles tribute Venue? Champs Sing along to all of your favourite Beatles songs with the ‘Fab Beatles’.

E Call 39 812-397.

When? September 16, 21 and 23.

Event? DJ nights Venue? Cocoon Dance along to tunes played by various DJs from around the globe.

E Call 36 500-114.

126 x Happenings x 132 Venue listing

BTM September 2011 125

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When? September 21 Event? First anniversary Venue? Club Buffalo Champagne and cake on the house to celebrate Buffalo’s first birthday.

E Call 17 826-993.

When? September 22 Event? World Maritime Day Venue? Ramee Palace, Dublin Dress in marine clothing to celebrate World Maritime Day at Dublin.

E Call 39 736-547.

When? September 29 Event? Secret agents’ ball Venue? Ramee Palace, Dublin Dublin is inviting you to unleash your inner 007 with a fancy dress ball.

E Call 39 736-547.

When? September 29 Event? Fashion TV party Venue? Bushido Bushido and FTV have collaborated to bring a huge party to Bahrain.

E Call 17 583-555.

When? September 30 Event? Bora Bora party Venue? Muju, Dragon Hotel & Resort Ibiza will be brought to Bahrain with a dance-filled beach party at Muju.

E Call 36 969-168.

Club Buffalo

Return to Action

New venues

September 21 marks Club Buffalo’s first birthday, which will be celebrated with free champagne and cake to get everyone in the mood to party! A special drinks package allows for unlimited draught and bottled beers, regular spirits with mixers and house wines or alternatively you can win and dine with unlimited amounts of wine and a birthday buffet spread.

Get ready to party at new Club Mynt in Pars International Hotel.

The club is a new hot spot for all who love a great night out and will play host to numerous international DJs in the future. A spacious dance floor is complete with VIP area; there is ample seating throughout to take a break from the buzz of the dance floor.

Or if you like to chill out with great sports and a drink, new bar Corners is the ideal choice. Sleek and dimly lit, the bar is a wooden haven for all sports fans to watch the games.

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Social Media Club Ghabga The Social Media Club Bahrain held a ghabga for members and guests at the Elite Resort & Spa during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Mohammed, Aradi, Ali, Ali Sabkar, Ahmed & Mohammed

Anis & Imran

Ali Sabkar

Jamal & Nasreen

Lila & Abid

Ali & Mazin

Nawaf

Imran & Jamal

126 September 2011 BTM

Hassan, Florentina & Aamir

Karthik & Mohammed

Marwa & Aziza

Lubna

Amy Winehouse

Tribute nights Although music concerts in Bahrain are sadly excessively limited, the island does however boast some of the greatest tribute bands to allow you to sing along to your all-time favourite songs at some of the best venues.

On September 8, JJ’s Irish is paying homage to one of the greatest contemporary jazz singers, the late Amy Winehouse. The evening will celebrate Amy’s greatest music with chart-topping classics such as ‘Valerie’ and ‘Back to Black’ for everyone to sing along to. The role of Amy will be performed by singer Tania Alboni who has a special knack for replicating the unique sound and style that made Amy Winehouse famous.

JJ’s will also be hosting a second great tribute night, with a six-piece band coming over from the UK to perform the Spanish flamenco-inspired music of the Gipsy Kings. British band Bamboleo will be on stage in JJ’s music hall on September 29, and heralded as the only band to offer the authentic and original sound of the Gipsy Kings. The band have been together since 2008 and include a lead singer from the Camargue region of France, Nino Cantarell — a gipsy from the Camargue rumba families of the area, who lead the band for over six years. So this is more than just an average tribute band, this is almost the real deal!

Or for those of you nostalgic for the infamous tunes of The Beatles, head to Champs on September 16 to perform some of the most recognisable songs of all time. Expect to hear great renditions of classics to sing along to all night long.

Gypsy Kings

The Beatles

BTM September 2011 127

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Beach Party Pitched as the hottest event of the month, so get ready to take to the dance floor accompanied by banging beats. Set alongside the waters of Amwaj Islands, the Bora Bora beach party will be playing host to a number of renowned DJs; the music is set to be fierce.

Present will be DJ Alex Miles, who is a regular guest at one of the world’s largest clubs, Space Ibiza; Damian D’Costa from Bahrain’s own Cocoon Lounge; and Trace Harris who has spun the decks for MTV Latino.

U Turn and Friends

Playing a new tune September signals the emergence of new resident bands at the venues across Bahrain. Whether you are a fan of jazz, golden oldies, contemporary floor-fillers or R&B you will certainly find something you like.

All rock fanatics should get to Diggers to see Sound Impact rocking the stage with classics. For something more traditional, duo Topaz will be performing Arabic hits interspersed with international music.

Club Buffalo has a septet from the US titled Deluxe, Enigma has Plus 27, The Warbler features UK band Red and Dublin houses Evolver; each will keep the party spirit going with a range of contemporary music. Max Tempo at Rocky’s Café will include hits from the seventies to today as will Rampage at the Sheraton Hotel.

You can catch a bit of everything from new bands U Turn and Friends, located at the Intercontinental and Movenpick respectively and a further huge variety from Hip2Soul who will be performing at Club F1. Sabor Latino will have you swaying at Pars International Hotel and you can unwind with Margaret Bell, jazz and soul performer at Muju.

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Hussain Ali Farewell Party A farwell party was held to bid goodbye to Hussain Ali, the assistant general manager, head of sales, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain at the Mei & Yu Restaurant in Amwaj Islands.

Owner representative Salman Al Mahmeed also attended the party which was held last month

Sumaya, Salman Al Mahmeed & Hussain Ali

Salman Al Mahmeed & Hussain Ali with staff members

Fransesco & Sarah

128 September 2011 BTM

Sumaya, George & Cat

Demel, Nalaka, Bajali & Bassem

Fransesco, Noor, Hussain, Essa & Saad

Saad & Abdulla

George & Nadeem

Evolver

RAMEE GROUP OF HOTELS

New Band Time The Ramee Group of Hotels introduces six new bands at six venues this month, with great new tunes and fresh sounds.

This month, Ramee Group of Hotels tempts us to its various venues with new bands and music genres for every taste.

You can go wild for country at the Kingdom’s favourite Wild West venue, Club Buffalo, which introduces new resident American group Deluxe to jazz up the unique club. The band, made up of seven members, will be performing an assortment of tracks from the last four decades to create a high-energy dance show that will get you and your friends dancing all night long. Happily for ladies, drinks are free at Club Buffalo every night of the week with the exception of Thursdays and there is a happy hour daily from 4-8pm.

If you are in the mood for some serious dancing, head to Club F1, in the Metropolitan Hotel. The venue has signed an all-new high-energy band Hip2Soul to liven up the club. Open from 4pm, the entertainment will start every evening at 9pm.

This band will play almost any song available for you to sing and dance along to.

At Dublin, in the Ramee Palace, seven dynamic members create the newest band at Evolver, to entertain the crowds every Thursday for a month of theme nights. Playing a range of tunes, Evolver will play to suit the evening’s mood, so you can sit back and relax to soothing favourites or party your heart out to the most updated dance floor hits.

If you are an all-round music addict, then head to Enigma in the Windsor Hotel to see new band Plus 27 rocking the stage.

Originally from Cape Town, the band has seven members, who combine to make the ultimate all-round package; various styles and genres are combined making Plus 27 a force to be reckoned with!

Live band Max Tempo will be keeping the atmosphere at Rocky's Café (new name of Rock Bottom Cafe) buzzing from this month

Plus 27

Deluxe

Hip2Soul

onwards with its seven-member contemporary group. Max Tempo will be aiming to bring every one of your favourite songs alive, covering hits from the seventies right up to modern classics.

The number one spot for music and sport lovers, The Warbler ensures your evenings there are even better with the introduction of Red. Performing six nights a week, the band hails from the UK; the seven-piece group has gained acclaim from performances at numerous venues internationally. Red will be performing party hits from the seventies to current chart tracks so there will be plenty of songs to sing along to!

E Call 39 688-207 (Club Buffalo, Ramee California Hotel), 38 381-641 (Club F1, Metropolitan Hotel), 39 736-547 (Dublin, Ramee Palace Hotel), 17 297-000 (Enigma, Windsor Tower Hotel), 38 381-641 (Rocky's Café, Ramee International Hotel), or 38 868 976 (The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Hotel).

BTM September 2011 129

afterdarkhappenings RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

New Band, New Beats

Episode

This Eid, the Ramada Hotel introduces a new band to infuse some fresh music and entertainment into the successful Exchange Restaurant and Pub. As Ramadan draws to a close and Eid begins, the Ramada Bahrain celebrates with the re-opening of the Exchange Restaurant and Pub with something new for all of the punters and diners. Conveniently located in the heart of Adliya, the dusky traditional pub is a favourite for many on the island and provides a great place to unwind and meet with friends; now you can also go along to listen to a great mix of music from a new band.

This Eid, Ramada Hotel unveils a new resident band, ‘Episode’. The band consists of four members; two ladies who belt out the high notes, and two men who provide the ‘oomph’.

Prior to the Ramada Hotel, Episode has performed in various other venues across the globe.

Episode will be gracing the Exchange stage daily, with the exception of Saturday, from 9pm onwards. The music is set to be dynamic, with the band playing an eclectic mix of popular music, including rock, jazz, pop, country, reggae and traditional music, incorporated with extraordinary styles inspired by their travels around the world.

You can also enjoy happy hours daily, from 3pm to 8pm, where you can get great deals on drinks alongside a wide selection of dishes from an extensive menu. Adding to the pub aesthetic, The Exchange is equipped with a billiard table, dart board and wide screen televisions; there is some form of entertainment for every one. E Call 17 742-000.

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Pink Friday At Bushido Bushido Restaurant in Seef District turned all pink at the restaurant's themed 'Pink Friday'

Alexia & Alessandra

Kate, Laura, Ashley & Sophie

Josephine & Lucy

Karima, Hakeem & Samia

Kyra, Zoe, Linda & Louise

Angie & Nermin

Mari

Mirna

Zaina

130 September 2011 BTM

Edyta, Helen & Natalia

Colette & Jenna

Nicola & GG

Nicolas & Alessandra

Simple Notes

PARS INTERNATIONAL

A New Vibe With Eid, Pars International Hotel seems to have turned over a new leaf. This time, they are back with a bang with the launch of a hot new club and two new bands.

Got mint?

As Ramadan comes to an end, it looks like Bahrain is ready to take clubbing to a new level — enter Club Mynt. This brand new hotspot for partyholics boasts a passion for music and dance like no other nightlife venue in the Kingdom.

All you’ve got to do is follow the thump of the music to find this party haven. This shouldn’t be so hard with their freshly installed state-of-the-art sound system. Once entered, you’ve got a choice between hitting the massive dance floor and chilling at the VIP area which sports its private bar. A walk through the rest of the club will have you in awe with its plush interiors, spacious surroundings and ample seating.

Once you’ve got a feel of the club having taken in the exquisite ambience, there’s just one thing you’ll want to do before you go and shake up the dance floor. And pamper your taste buds you will with their impressive range of mouthwatering starters.

A fully stocked bar serves a variety of beverages from all over the world. We are sure you’ll want to nip down and savour some of the finest cocktails in town. Club Mynt ensures it’s a league above all other nightclubs. And one way to keep this promise is the fact that they will have beautiful podium dancers to glamorise the night with their inimitable moves.

What is a club without a good DJ? This venue has not seen a silent night throughout its history, owing to the international DJs from London to Ibiza and New York to Mumbai who grace the island with their skills at the turntable. And that’s not all; Club Mynt covers all genres of music and will be home to the best in the field night after night.

Sabor Latino

Dust off those dancing shoes because they are set to roll out the red carpet for you on September 2. The grand opening will no doubt be a party to remember with none other than DJ Sabrina Terence mixing tracks from 9pm.

Feel the music There’s not a soul on the island who doesn’t know that when you’re craving a Hispanic bite or if youe feet are itching to do the tango, there’s only one place to go — Latin Quarter.

Serving contemporary delicacies in a warm ambience that also offers a magnificent sea view, this restaurant offers the complete dining experience. But food isn’t all that’s cooking at this venue this Eid. Introducing Sabor Latino — the new resident band that promises an entertaining night with their fantastic rhythm and dance straight from Columbia. Performing anything from salsa and meringue to samba and cha cha cha; you can be assured of one thing. It will be a divine night of fine dining, good music and a lot of dancing.

Meanwhile, Boomers is all geared up to hit the beach with the Hawaiian theme night every Thursday with a live performance by Simple Notes, their new resident band.

E Call 17 814-777.

BTM September 2011 131

venuelisting Bar Boomers Champs Diggers Enigma Fiddlers Green Maguire’s Moodz Club

17 814-777 17 827-600 17 224-000 17 297-000 17 525-263 17 716-999 17 849-111

Disco Bedrock Club Euphoria Pulse Discotheque Tabasco Charlie’s Twister

17 826-001 17 727-230 17 827-999 17 224-242 17 296-660

bystanderthismonth

Hard Drive At JJ's Irish Restaurant As part of the 12th anniversary celebrations of the ever popular JJ's Irish Restaurant, cover band Hard Drive, a five-piece band led by singers Josephine and James performed last month for JJ's end of season closing party and the after-brunch party finale the following day

Hard Drive take a break between sessions

Ivy & Alan

Lounge Bar Amber Bar An Nada Barcode Brazil Lounge Burlington Club Bushido Casa Bar Cocoon Lounge Déjà Vu Downtown Flamingo Bar It’s Trendy L’Bar Latin Quarter Le Bellevue Muju Shift7 The Boatyard Bar Trader Vic’s Typhoon Vertigo Vintage Wine Bar Zodiac Lounge

17 636-419 17 533-533 33 477-088 17 826-686 17 580-000 17 583-555 17 584-400 17 827-600 13 657-770 17 227-777 17 460-056 17 727-230 17 567-222 17 814-777 17 298-008 16 039-800 17 313-333 17 701-201 17 586-555 17 746-395 17 845-000 17 746-461 17 565-888

Kate, Dwayne & Joey

Fenny & Mike

Satya & Hayo

Jelle & Ayda

Amanda, Angela & Hazel

George & Anke

Bella & Rach

Ashley & Kate

Slone & Terry

Audrey & Vladimir

Night Club Glamour Lounge Havana Restaurant Tempo Wrangler Z Club

17 827-999 17 826-888 17 296-699 17 827-600 17 814-777

Pub Restaurant Club Buffalo Club F1 Davy Crockett’s Dublin Harvesters Henry’s Café JJ’s Irish Kicks Rock Bottom Café Sherlock Holmes The Exchange The K Lounge The Warbler

17 826-001 17 296-464 17 810-555 17 811-688 17 531-122 17 716-999 17 717-370 17 810-555 17 727-230 17 742-450 17 742-000 17 360-000 17 290-600

Rusty, Juicey, Red & Don

Ray, Fiona, John, Pauline & Vera

Joan, Corey, Curtis, Alicia & Kyle

Shelly & Laura

Sports Bar Chillers C. Club Cosmo Lounge Good Fellas Legends Olympic Sports Bar Polo Lounge Shooters Tracks Sports Bar

17 296-660 17 535-000 17 727-230 17 811-688 17 826-001 17 290-600 17 725-000 17 296-699 17 531-122 Joe, Emily, Lisa & Bobby

132 September 2011 BTM

Hazel, Amanda, Angela & Joe

Frankie & Roisin

Caleb & Marissa

marketplace

H&M

The Classic Cut This Autumn, H&M is proving that the high street has raised the bar with a seamless collection of separates, dresses, and accessories that echo the catwalk trends.

For her Slim tailoring, cinched-in waistlines and minimal pattern matures H&M into a decidedly ‘grown up’ brand this season. The women’s collection is demure and classic with vintage cuts visible in both shoes and clothing; perfect to help the modern woman achieve a look balanced between effortless style, femininity and power. Darker slimming colours should be mixed with paler shades to emphasise the waist-line and to elongate the legs.

E Call 17 179-885 (Bahrain City Centre) or 17 564-606 (Seef Mall).

134 September 2011 BTM

ALDO

A Complete Shoe-In Aldo’s autumnal collection offers us just what we need; variety, unwavering style and the most current trends out there.

Aldo has always been a definite go-to for the latest shoe and accessory trends.

Well-designed styles give the appearance of high-end designs at the same level of quality for just a fraction of the price. With constant attention paid to the latest trends, you can be sure to find the most of-themoment styles. The autumn collection is shaping up to be fabulous; for the girls there are boxy leather bags are great all-rounders and are styled up with animalprint effects and sheepskin lining. Teetering court shoes are available in neutral colours or you can go wild in the evening with rubyred. There is also a great deal of choice for men; brogues are making a comeback this autumn, and Aldo has a perfectly patent pair for confirmed comfort and trendiness. Or if you are a fan of the laid-back look, then opt for a pair of highrise trainers — great for casual wear as they look great with shorts or trousers.

E Call 16 632-938 (BCC) or 16 627-078 (Seef Mall).

marketplace

H&M

Smartly Does It Men can spruce up this season with smart suits and separates, and enrich the overall look with a statement piece to ensure ultimate style.

For him The smart look is key in this collection, with suits, shirts and jackets galore. H&M has experimented with two-tone pieces, reminiscent of men’s styles seen in the ‘60s. Both a jacket and smart shoes have been injected with dual colours to contrast against one another and add some flair to any outfit.

E Call 17 179-885 (Bahrain City Centre) or 17 564-606 (Seef Mall).

136 September 2011 BTM

marketplace ALDO

A Complete Shoe-In Aldo’s autumnal collection offers us just what we need; variety, unwavering style and the most current trends out there.

Aldo has always been a definite go-to for the latest shoe and accessory trends.

Well-designed styles give the appearance of high-end designs at the same level of quality for just a fraction of the price. With constant attention paid to the latest trends, you can be sure to find the most of-the-moment styles. The autumn collection is shaping up to be fabulous; for the girls there are boxy leather bags are great allrounders and are styled up with animal-print effects and sheepskin lining. Teetering court shoes are available in neutral colours or you can go wild in the evening with ruby-red. There is also a great deal of choice for men; brogues are making a comeback this autumn, and Aldo has a perfectly patent pair for confirmed comfort and trendiness. Or if you are a fan of the laid-back look, then opt for a pair of highrise trainers — great for casual wear as they look great with shorts or trousers.

E Call 16 632-938 (BCC) or 16 627-078 (Seef Mall).

136 September 2011 BTM

SKECHERS

Shapely Footwear Skechers are ideal for women of all ages, providing elegance and comfort whilst conducting your daily workout.

Exercising is made easy and stylish with the latest line of lightweight footwear from renowned athletic brand — Skechers. Inclusive of natural stride technology, this brand’s collection gives you fluid transitions by highlighting barefoot motions when you walk, jog or run.

Many celebrities are also fans of the brand. Reality show stars Kim Kardashian, and her mother Kris Jenner, are often spotted in their Shape-ups S2 LITE and LIV. Skechers is also endorsed by Dancing with the Stars’ co-host Brooke Burke, who modelled for the brand back in 1995.

E Call 17 179-885 (BCC) or 17 564-606 (Seef Mall).

BTM September 2011 137

marketplace JASHANMAL & SONS

School-Proof Shoes For sleek yet comfortably designed kids’ shoes, look no further than Clarks for durable footwear in school and at home.

With years of expertise, Clark’s is an expert in creating the perfect pair of school shoes for your little ones. Durability and value for money continue to be the essence of this year’s collection, as children’s footwear never looked so good. The autumn ‘11 range is full of practical pieces that double-up as smart shoes suitable for the classroom yet are fun and stylish to keep your child happy.

For the girls there are metallic pink ballet shores, which are adorned with a heart motif, or two classic black leather styles; one with a subtle bow detail covering the toes and one with a star-covered strap.

The boys can go wild and play in dinosaur design trainers.

With a rubber sole, the shoes are sturdy and will withstand hours of rough and tumble use. A more understated dinosaur design is ideal for the classroom — completely black, the dinosaur drawing on the side of the shoe is not obvious but makes school wear a little more exciting!

E Call 17 582-424

138 September 2011 BTM

ASIA JEWELLERS

Luxe Time deLaCour watches are designed to be forwardthinking and incredibly luxurious, enticing customers with unique features and sleek designs.

Deluxe watch brand deLaCour originated from Geneva, Switzerland, in 2003. In the last eight years it has secured a position as one of the leading watch brands in the luxury market, due to the creativity and innovation conducted in design, aesthetic and function.

If you are after a watch that is exclusive, then deLaCour is the place to go. Each collection created is a limited edition and is made as an alternative option to those existing on the market.

The designs are avant-garde, highlighted through the brand slogan ‘since tomorrow’, showing a drive to be ahead of the market and design for the future.

The first watch designed, the bichrono, was uniquely placed as the first watch ever to feature a double automatic chronograph movement — in other words, the watch showed both GMT and local time.

Presently, deLaCour is available in over 35 countries worldwide and many sports personalities are public fans.

José Mourinho collaboration At the start of this year, deLaCour named Portuguese football manager, José Mourinho as their brand ambassador. José

stated at the time, “I am embarking on this project because I like the brand. I give little importance to sponsorship opportunities; I can live without them, except when something captivates me, as deLaCour does.”

Prior to the collaboration, José was frequently photographed sporting a deLaCour watch, and must now enjoy wearing his own personal designs from the ‘Mourinho City Ego Collection’.

Personalisation of this deLaCour collection is secured with a quote from José engraved onto the back of the watch face.

The collection combines sporting elements such as a stopwatch with lavish design elements including a graphite bezel, honeycomb dial and black titanium case. deLaCour is available at Asia Jewellers, Sheraton Complex.

E Call 17 535-344.

BTM September 2011 139

marketplace TRENDS HAUS

Collaborative Innovation

Rarely does a furniture showroom invest such a desire to satisfy the customer; at Trends Haus you are invited to be inspired to realise your furniture vision.

Trends Haus prides itself on being Bahrain’s ‘edgiest’ furniture showroom. Stocked full of an assortment of over 20 of Germany’s most renowned interior brands, it is the ideal place to choose what you need to transform any living area. The furniture pieces, all manufactured in Germany, are sold at competitive prices and offer solutions ideal for the hospitality, commercial, residential and airport sectors.

The showroom is located in the quiet industrial area in Sitra, beautifully set against a calming garden; it is designed to be inspirational for customers, and consists of 15,000 square feet of product and space. There is even an in-house library in which customer’s can get motivated; it’s a great place for designers, architects and other professionals to gather and discuss existing and future projects.

Trends Haus has selected brand partners with decades of experience and knowledge of the industry. Coming together as a whole, the brands ensure total innovation in design concepts, meaning every customer leaves satisfied. So that you have the time and attention of a team member, the company asks every customer to make an appointment before visiting. The team will help your order reach completion with no detail forgotten, leaving you with an interior solution that is exactly what you envisioned.

E Call 17 735-395.

MOHAMMED FAKHROO & BROS.

3D Experience Have you always been dreaming about getting the movie theatre feel in the comfort of your very own home?

Nothing beats staying in at home with a DVD in hand. Now, with the new Philips dynamic 3Directional angled speakers you can maximise your home cinema sound experience even more.

Featuring angled drivers to deliver sound not only towards the front but also to the sides, the system creates a wider sweet spot giving you a more immersive and cinematic surround sound.

Your own theatre The 3D speakers, which disperse sound evenly around the room, are part of the Philips 5000 series home theatre system, which includes full HD 3D Blu-ray, Smart TV, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD, 1,000W RMS power and a unique touch control.

For those of us who don’t know the technicalities that come with HD 3D Blu-rays, it means your movie experience will be as close to reality as possible! The system uses the latest generation of fast-switching displays for real-life depth and realism in full 1080 x 1920 HD resolution.

You can also buy the Philips wireless speakers separately to further enhance the sound effects. Developed using interferencefree technology, this gives you free mobility to place your speakers anywhere you choose without the unsightly wire connections.

Another amazing feature - with the Philips AV remote app, if you can’t seem to find your remote, you can simply use your smart phone or tablet PC to control your home theatre system.

With all the right features for the perfect home theatre system in place, grab some home-made popcorn, put on your 3D glasses and enjoy the ride.

E Call 17 253-529.

140 September 2011 BTM

Alhambra Vintage Long necklace 20 motifs

Alhambra Vintage bracelet

Alhambra vintage ring

Alhambra vintage Necklace 10 motifs

Sweet Alhambra Earrings

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS

Vintage Delicates Van Cleef & Arpels celebrate opulence in fine jewellery, with a history of excellent craftsmanship and timetranscending styles.

Van Cleef & Arpels is one of those delightfully historic brands; an exquisite jeweller which has enchanted many a woman for well over 100 years. Recently the brand has created elite pieces, taking the the fashion world by storm and adorning many infamous model’s necks.

Pink-Gold collection The newest collection is divine, to say the least. Infused with charm, it uses pink-gold to create an effect that is both classic and timeless. For decades, the brand has been using a special alloy that combines gold, copper and silver, which fuses together to create subtle pink highlights that make the jewel glow with warm light.

Alhambra Vintage Earrings

Two sister motifs are used throughout the collection; vintage Alhambra and sweet Alhambra. As a signature of Van Cleef & Arpels, the icons represent luck, fortune, love and good health, and have been reinvented to glow with a new colour — pink-gold.

The new interpretation is available in six jewels; a long necklace with 20 motifs, a necklace with ten motifs, a bracelet with five motifs, earrings with one motif and a ring with one motif. Each item in the collection enhances the area of the body it sits on, and stands out as a precious and individual jewellery piece which can be worn for years to come and will sit perfectly alongside any chosen outfit.

E Call 17 131-122.

BTM September 2011 141

marketplace ROCHE BOBOIS

For the Love of a House Turning your house into a home takes more than just throwing in some furniture — unless they’re from Roche Bobois, of course.

Les Provinciales: Manoir dining table Fine dining isn’t just about the cuisine. It’s all about the ambience. Create that mystical setting at home with this solid beech wood table; it sports a cherry-wood veneer top and a parquetry top in solid oak. The interiors are available in antique or aubergine lacquer, or even a hand-waxed finish.

Manoir table

Les Contemporains: Vertige sofa Why settle for a living room when you can have your own lounge? Set up an innovative living space that your visitors will envy you for. This large three-seater sofa is upholstered in echo fabric, boasting an asymmetrical back that offers your room an edge you have always desired.

Les Contemporains: Anarima bed The most important part of anybody’s dream home is having the perfect bed. With a padded frame and headboard upholstered in Elegance leather, the Anarima bed blends contrast with whip stitching. It’s available in various sizes and with an adjustable back.

E Call 17 582-901 or visit www.roche-bobois.com.

Vertige sofa

GAJRIA ELECTRONICS

Tough Shots Maintaining a long-standing history of excellent photographic equipment, Olympus introduces its newest digital camera with advanced technology for enhanced shots.

142 September 2011 BTM

Anarima bed

Gajria Electronics has announced a new addition to its line of cameras. This latest digital camera, the TG-180, is part of the Olympus Tough Series and is designed specifically to last longer and be resistant to damage.

The TG-180 is shockproof, waterproof, freeze-proof and crush-proof, and equipped with GPS, electronic compass and a manometer. It has an airtight construction, which is resistant to dust, dirt and other particles, so you can click away with no concern for the quality of your images.

Moreover, the smart features now allow users to tag images with location information or capture the height or depth of water in addition to location data and map coordinates. Providing a much needed feature to store image information on the camera itself.

This camera is great for capturing high-quality close-up images, as it is fitted with a 5x optical zoom, 28 mm wide angle lens, Olympus’ TruePic III + image processor, and 920,000-dot LCD screen, super precision three-inch hypercrystal III. It is available in black or silver.

Further features include a magic art filter, in-camera landscape function, mechanical sensor-shift image stabilisation function and beauty fashion and AF-tracking technology, allowing you to produce professional images with your camera. Budding filmmakers can also use the video function to capture HD footage.

Gajria Electronics has two branches in Gajria Tower, near Dana Mall, and another in Yateem Centre; both showrooms are open from 9am-1pm. E Call 17 225-365.

Dr Sunil J Rao

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Bowel Management One in five people suffer from irritable bowel syndrome; a disorder that affects the working of the colon and is capable of causing significant discomfort.

As food moves through your body it passes the digestive tract, from the small intestine to the colon, whose main function is to absorb water. To do this the muscles in the colon contract to push through stool.

When these muscle contractions become abnormal, it causes what we call an irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Too many contractions may cause diarrhoea; fewer may cause constipation, and irregular or intermittent ones may cause pain.

“The cause of the pain associated with IBS is unknown, but appears to be related to the nervous system,” says Dr Sunil J Rao, internal medicine specialist at Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH).

“People with IBS have a colon that reacts very strongly to signals from the brain; equally, many people find that stress, anxiety and emotional issues trigger the same symptoms. In addition, certain foods, or eating too much or too little, may also cause the colon to overreact.”

The most common symptoms are pain in the abdomen, a bloated sensation, and constipation or diarrhoea — even both. These conditions may come and go over days, weeks or months.

“Not everyone who has gastrointestinal symptoms has IBS,” notes Dr Sunil. “At BSH, a careful medical history is taken prior to diagnosis; although no test can prove that someone has IBS, we use blood tests, X-rays and colonoscopy to rule out other disorders.”

Lifestyle changes are, perhaps, the most obvious method to deal with IBS. Eating a high fibre diet and avoiding foods that

make the symptoms worse are ways in which IBS can be combated. Other approaches include eating regular meals that are not too big, drinking enough water, getting regular exercise and reducing stress.

If these do not work, then a programme of medication can always be provided. E Call 17 812-000.

How to Manage IBS These simple steps can help to alleviate the onset of irritable bowel syndrome: l Learn what foods worsen your symptoms and avoid them. l Eat a diet with high in fibre foods, such as wholegrains, fruits, and vegetables. Fibre supplements may help if your diet does not have enough fibre. l Eat regular, balanced meals. l Drink plenty of water to help the colon work correctly. l Take medication as instructed by your doctor. l Exercise! Try 30 minutes of daily, moderate physical activity. l Lower stress; don’t take on more work or obligations than you can handle. l Don’t take over-the-counter laxatives without a doctor’s prescription. l Don’t skip meals, and don’t eat extra-large meals.

BTM September 2011 143

marketplace FALAK ENTERPRISES

Serve customers better Responding to customer feedback is essential for any business; Dream Body Centre is doing just that, to get closer to their clients.

Michael Simmelink and Suhail Al Algosaibi

EVEREST TRADING

Cleaning Solutions This company takes hygiene solutions to another level, introducing innovative cleaning agents from Kimberly Clark for everyday life.

The Dream Body Centre (DBC), one of Bahrain’s most wellknown fitness and weight loss centres, is moving from Hamala to The Bahrain Mall in order to get closer to its existing and future members. Expected to take place in the next couple of months, the relocation of DBC will encourage more people to undertake the Kingdom’s first and only 23-minute weight loss and fitness scheme.

“We’ve had people asking us for a long time to move closer to the capital,” said DBC founder Suhail Algosaibi. “But we’ve always had a problem in finding a good location, as most retail outlets lack sufficient parking. We finally found an excellent space in The Bahrain Mall, which also has the highest ratio of parking spaces per 100 square metres of retail space of any mall in the Kingdom”.

“We are very excited to have the DreamBody Centre come into out mall,” said Bahrain Mall manager, Michael Simmelink.“I have no doubt that our mall will serve the centre’s needs very well,” said the manager. The centre helps customers lose fat and tone muscle by working with specially-designed circuit training routine called ‘the DBC guaranteed 23-minute body transformation process’. The circuit consists of 23 stations and includes several specialised hydraulic machines, helping the body to witness a fast, healthy and long lasting transformation.

Innovatively, the DBC machines are filled with fluids and don’t have weight stacks and each one allows two muscles to be targeted at once which means you can workout for just half the time you would in a regular gym without compromising on results. In fact the DreamBody Centre guarantees results and has two powerful moneyback guarantees. E Call 17 613-352.

Having been in the hygiene and chemical equipment industry for more than 20 years, Everest Trading has become one of the pioneering bodies in the market. Known for introducing innovative and unique products, the company takes pride in being one of the leading distributors of cleaning, hygiene, safety and health products in the Kingdom.

It does this by working towards a clean and sustainable environment and through the continuous launch of the latest products and services to meet the demands of its clients.

New product range Renowned international brand, Kimberly Clark now includes a range of cleaning products from Wypall. These are available through Everest Trading, and are housed within the company’s new consumer division.

The Wypall X50 cleaning cloths are perfect for repeated light wiping, sanitising, and general cleaning tasks. The non-woven wipes offer fast absorption, tear-resistance and exceptionally high performance. More cost-effective than rags and out-performing towels, the wipes are ideal for prepping surfaces with solvents, wiping away grease and oil, and cleaning rough surfaces.

As for the Wypall microfibre cloths, they use microban antimicrobial product protection with an added level of strength against stain and odour causing bacteria. Making it both economical and efficient, the cloths absorbs eight times their weight in liquid and can be laundered 300 times reducing annual cleaning costs as well as improving efficiency.

E Call 17 276-211.

144 September 2011 BTM

Royal Bahrain Hospital

A New You If you find yourself weary from false marketing, carb depriving diets and sit-ups that aren’t working, then trust your doctor to tell you how to shed those pounds.

Nada Jawahery, Royal Bahrain Hospital’s dietician, insists that the term ‘diet’ is not used in the hospital’s Fresh Start programme, instead they opt for the terms lifestyle and ‘behaviour modification’. This programme boasts a weight management routine that provides lasting results.

“We are committed to getting you back on track, healthier than before, offering you the opportunity to start afresh and feel more energized and fit. In order to achieve that, we provide more than just a diet and some exercise,” Nada explains.

It may sound like marketing, yet it is clear that the professionals believe that this method is necessary for success. Dr Shahid Khan, the programme’s internal medicine consultant, emphasises the necessity of medical guidance during the process.

“There’s a host of medical factors related to the weight management process; perhaps there is an underlying medical condition that is the cause, such as hypothyroidism, or a present hazard that appears during exercise and diet, like high blood pressure.”

So what can a doctor do? “My job is to diagnose any illness and prescribe the appropriate treatment. The programme’s lab tests show the full picture, letting us set the goals for the client to achieve. Physiotherapy, dietetics and cosmetology all require these tests and analysis in order to do their parts properly.”

This sentiment is reiterated by Layla Al-Madani, one of the programme’s two physiotherapists. “The fitness element is conducted under a professional physiotherapist’s supervision and guidance, and is consdtructed based upon the age, medical status and fitness level of the patient. Our gym allows us to teach clients what works for them.”

But take note; this programme isn’t a quick fix. “Unless it’s bariatric surgery, our role is to add the finishing touches,” confirms Dr Dean Gomes, one of ‘Fresh Start’s’ two plastic surgeons, “We’re there for the client once they’re close to their ideal weight and shape.” Dr Punam Navare, the second plastic surgeon adds, “There are some areas of your body where no matter how hard we try, fat loss seems resistant. In this case, we use outpatient procedures like Thermage, Fraxel and Vellasmooth Pro.” The panel emphasises that the programme is a “multi-prong medical and safe approach” to weight management; the goal is not losing weight but feeling good and healthy. Nada concludes, “We’re here to guide people towards a better lifestyle. We want to teach people how to be healthy, and that’s the key to keeping off unwanted weight.” E Call 17 246-800.

BTM September 2011 145

marketplace SEEF MALL

Exciting news for the whole family — now you can enjoy a new and trendy dining experience at Seef Mall’s upgraded food court facilities.

Dine with Us

Food court in the west extension

AMA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Robotics Education

Staying true to its vision and mission, the AMA International School Bahrain constantly advances itself with the latest educational technologies and innovations.

146 September 2011 BTM

The east food court, located next to Magic Island, reopens after a major renovation. The brand new food court with enhanced facilities offers shoppers an entirely new dining experience with a spacious and vibrant dining area for families to relax and eat while taking a break from shopping, or for those who just want to enjoy the ambience of the mall.

The improved layout is fully equipped with plush, comfortable seating that is convenient for adults and children alike, as it offers a family area while at the same time providing individual seating for couples and youngsters. The expanded food court can now accommodate up to 400 people, which boasts a sleek, modern design with a traditional twist, as it is elevated on platforms resembling sea waves, giving an oceanic feel to the place.

Seef Mall provides visitors with a vast range of cuisine options, with restaurants serving local and international food that caters to everyone’s tastes and preferences. Additionally, the mall has a line-up of dining outlets to be opened by the end of this year such as Pinkberry and The Yellow Chili, along with few others.

The food court in the west extension was renovated earlier this year, creating a fresh and light envorinment in which to sit and eat your favourite food. Both renovations are part of the overall project at Seef Mall to spruce up the shopping experience for visitors. E Call 17 582-888.

AMA International School (AMAIS) is the first school in Bahrain to acquire the Lego Mindstorm NXT-G Robot, providing its students with innovative robotics education and cutting-edge opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.

Challenging the intellectual and critical thinking skills of elementary and high school students, the programme will be implemented in the K3-K12 math and science courses, that started from the third term of 2010-2011 school year.

“We are excited with the implementation of Lego Mindstorm programme; it will provide our students with advanced and innovative solutions to some concepts in science, technology, engineering and math,” said Teresita De Castro, AMAIS school director.

With LEGO Mindstorm, AMAIS students are exposed to learning subjects through hands-on activities and applying software tools in project-based exercises. “Allowing the students to practise the concepts they’ve learned motivates them to further improve on their skills and explore even further,” explains De Castro.

The next generation of robotics enthusiasts and experts are those who find relevance in what they are learning inside the class and constantly finding ways to improve and come up with their own inventions.

The implementation of the LEGO Mindstorm makes it possible for AMAIS students to participate in this year’s National Robotics Olympiad (NRO) and World Robotics Olympiad (WRO), a set of events for science and technology education. The winner of NRO Bahrain will represent Bahrain at the WRO in Abu Dhabi in November 2011. E Call 17 598-444.

LULU HYPERMARKET

Under One Roof Setting new benchmarks in food quality and customer service, Lulu Hypermarket is a one-stop destination for quality and value The region’s largest retailer is known to offer a quality and varied range of food produce, whether fresh, frozen or canned.

But what most don’t know is that Lulu Hypermarket is also a one-stop shop for everything that is glamorous.

With the autumn/winter fashion season upon us, it’s high time to start your wardrobe transformation; you can spruce up your closet with a wide range of fashionable garments from Lulu. The hypermarket is stocked with the latest styles of clothing for both men and women, for all age groups.

Browse through separates, dresses, suits and outerwear for men and women and grab everything you need for the little ones. There is also footwear and accessories in abundance and Lulu also has a superior saree and accessories range completely updated with new and stylish pieces.

More than fashion For those who plan to go on a holiday later this year, make sure you grab some of the excellent luggage options from Lulu as plenty of modern and fashionable bags and suitcases have been added to the luggage section. On offer are numerous bags of different sizes, colours and styles are available to make your travel a pleasurable experience.

The electronics section has also been upgraded and the latest electronic goods such as laptops, tablets and much more is now up for grabs at Lulu. From beauty products, sunscreen, toiletries and even clothes and accessories, shoppers can find all they need in the three hypermarket branches throughout the Kingdom.

E Call 17 553-555.

SYED JUNAID ALAM

Novel Scents

The brand’s new collection of fragrances is headlined by a dual edition scent capturing the essence of Arabian tradition.

Junaid for Perfumes’ latest offering, named Taariikh, is set to appeal to both men and women with its vintage yet chic charm.

“This new creation is part of Junaid’s commitment to launch products that are in line with customers’ changing needs, trends and most importantly, their satisfaction,” says Atif Ikram, brand manager. “Taariikh has been created to symbolise the forgotten era and is a very distinct fragrance that captures the spirit of Arabia with a mix of the classic and modern.”

The new fragrance comprises of a male and female edition; Taariikh Black for men, which captures the mystique of rich traditions in its warm, spicy and woody notes, and the elegant Taariikh Gold for women, with its mild essence of rose and white musk for a lighter and enchanting fragrance.

Festive collection During the festive season, Junaid for Perfumes also launched an entire collection of perfumes especially to celebrate the Ramadan and Eid celebrations. This collection takes its inspiration from traditional, oriental and western influence.

Solitaire is a light floral scent while Sabia combines rose with vanilla for a sweeter fragrance; Nadeya is infused with orange blossom creating a soft, fruity perfume and Banafsaj Night Oil is a sultry and musky scent to calm as you sleep.

E Call 17 737-007.

BTM September 2011 147

listingsthismonth Arts Culture Art Galleries Al Riwaq Art Gallery Albareh Art Gallery Arabesque Art Gallery Art Lounge Ella Art Gallery

17 717-441 17 717-707 17 722-916 17 580-522 17 292-815

Art Galleries & Framing Bahrain Art Framing Centre 17 717165 Lamarkiz Framing & Gallery 17 596-284

Arts & Cultural Groups Alliance Française 17 683-295 Bahrain Arts Society 17 590-562 Contemporary Art Society 3 9224-002 Historical & Archaeological Society

17 727-895 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

17 230-123

Crafts Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre Crafts Centre Gallery Celebrations L’Atelier Art Lounge Things-To-Do

17 611-900 17 254-688 17 595-791 17 599-030 17 590-409

Dance

Ballet Centre Futureshape Studio Salsa Bahrain Sampaguita Club Victoria Dance Centre

17 693-232 17 590-088 3 9676-349 3 9106-589 3 987-6215

Drama, Film and Theatre

Bahrain Cinema Club 17 725-959 Dilmun Amateur Dramatics 17 690-926 Folk Poetry Society 17 761-000

Indian arts & culture

Institute for Performing Arts 17 231-717 Kalabhavan Bahrain Institute 17 717-271 Konkan Singers Club 17 243-511

Islamic Culture Al Bayan Society Beit Al Quran Discover Islam

17 645-156 17 261-555 17 531-400

Literature

Folk Poetry Society Pakistan Urdu Literary

17 761-000 17 776-629

Museums

Al Hayat Museum Al Oraifi Museum Currency Museum National Museum Oil Museum

3 9601-789 17 271-257 17 254-257 17 251-878 17 255-517 3 9019-462 3 9603-564

Other Societies

Awali Caledonian Society Bahrain Irish Society Bahrain Welsh Society Royal Society of St. George

3 6366-458 3 9800-511 3 9467-310 3 9726-329

Business Associations American Chamber Comm.

Australian Association Bar Society Bankers’ Society of Bahrain British Business Forum Businessmen’s Association French Business Club

17 580-516 3 9206-432 17 725-665 17 728-003 3 9651-755 17 229-009 17 748-999

Language Courses Alliance Française Berlitz The British Council

17 683-295 17 827-847 17 261-555

Other Associations Baloch Club Garden Club Pakistan Association Skal International Bahrain

17 292-231 17 727-625 3 9415-200 17 22-4050

Sports Recreation Aerobics

Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Curves Fitness Clinic for Women

17 691-496 Ez Fit SportPlex 17 692-378 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

Athletics/Running

3 8357-181 3 9911-848 17 262-143

17 721-999 17 728-791 17 642-119 17 794-898

Netball Club

3 9911-848

Pottery

17 786-969 17 599-026

Public Speaking

Manama Toastmasters Club 3 9451-182

Clubs Societies Ladies Clubs

17 862-620 3 6992-288

Bowling

Awali Bowling Centre

17 753-666

Cricket

Awali Cricket Club

17 756-959

Equestrian

Awali Riding Club Riding School Shakhoora Riding Centre The Country Club

17 756-525 17 690-448 17 591-103 17 593-593

Football & Rugby

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football

Social Clubs 17 753-666

Awali Golf Club Royal Golf Club

17 692-378 17 695-809 17 756-770 17 750-777

Karting

Gulf Speed 1 Kart Zone Silver Go Kart

3 9444-885 17 450-000 17 780-011

Marine Sports Sailing Club Yacht Club

Martial Arts

Delmon Taekwondo School 3 9689-659 Futureshape Studio 17 592-019 Ghassan’s Style Kickboxing 3 9458-293 Karate Centre 3 9247-769 Taichi & Wushu Center 17 813-856 Japan Karate Association 17 591-237 Marina Club 3 9690-008 Reza Martial Arts Centre 17 694-646 Shotokan Karate 3 9626-211 Yong Quan Tha Chi 3 9667-624 Zen-Do Bahrain 17 611-909

Mind Games

Bridge Club Bahrain Scrabble League

17 836-078 17 700-667

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Bahrain Karate Center 17 612-576 Bin Jamal Taekwondo Center 3 6222-892

17 713-080 17 242-641

Pilates

Dessange Health Club La Fontaine World Beat Fitness Center

17 713-999 17 230-123 17 612-576

Filipino Club Tennis Group Table Tennis Club Tennis Club The Country Club

3 9527-587 17 729-756 17 729-561 17 593-593

Snooker

Jimmy’s Snooker/Billiards 17 71 6-147

National Associations

Amateur Athletic Association 17 684-905 Badminton & Squash Fed. 17 292-662 Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Basketball Association 17 741-010 Bowling Association 17 822-077 Chess Federation 17 252-133 Cycling Association 17 650-079 Disabled Sports Federation 17 789-191 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Football Association 17 729-563 Handball Association 17 720-321 Hockey Association 17 253-209 Maritime Sports Association 17 836-078 Martial Arts Association 17 650-676 Mind Sports Association 17 340-016 Shooting & Fencing Assoc. 17 750-006 Snooker Association 17 825-301 Swimming Association 17 680-867 Table Tennis Association 17 729-393 Volleyball Association 17 271-139

Teens Kids Athletics Road Runners

Ghassans Gym Fitness Plus Physique Fitness Centre World Beat Fitness Centre 24-hour Fitness

17 695-911 17 593-593 17 694-646 17 612-576 17 716-999

Bahrain Wellness Centre Bayoga Centre Meditation Centre Physiotherapy Centre World Beat Fitness Centre

17 795-961 39 460-996 17 712-545 17 722-012 17 612-576

Bodyline Spa Coral Beach Club La Fontaine Spa Massage Centre

17 793-932 17 312-777 17 230-123 17 264-064

Ann Beauty Center and Spa Bellacura Beauty Lounge Dessange Spa Futoon Beauty & Fitness Pineapple Spa Profile Fitness Centre Wellness Resort Zoya Beauty Centre

17 623-704 17 697-950 17 713-999 17 777-994 17 712-000 17 727-766 17 795-961 17 740-800

Banyan Tree Resort & Spa Crowne Plaza Health Club Golden Tulip Health Club Gulf Hotel Health Club Le Mirage, Diplomat Hotel Regency Fitness Centre RJ’s, Ramee Int'l Hotel Sheraton Fitness Sporting Club, Ritz-Carlton The Gym, Mövenpick Hotel

17 845-000 17 531-122 17 535-000 17 713-000 17 531-666 17 227-777 36 270-302 17 524-570 17 580-000 17 460-000

Art of Living Foundation

39 653-007

Fitness Gyms

Health Spas (Women only)

Meditation Centres

Racket games

Dance

Ball Games

Golf

American Women’s Assoc. 17 685-882 Australasian Women (AWG) 3 8395-803 Awali Ladies Association 17 678-947 Business Women’s Society 17 721-188 Discover Islam Ladies 17 531-400 Hamad Town Women’s Association

17 422-005 International Ladies Group 17 729-128 Pakistani Women’s Assoc. 17 710-944 Young Ladies Society 17 262-237 Young Ladies Toastmasters 17 626-237 Women’s Society 17 826-777

148 September 2011 BTM

Bhatia Mitra Mandal Kannada Sangha Karnataka Social Club Keraleeya Samajam Shree Nayrana Cultural Shri Gujarati Samaj Tamil Social Association

British Club Netball Dilmun Netball Club Filipino Club Basketball

Awali Photo Society 17 764-468 Bahrain Photography Club 17 590-551

Bapco Club

Other Indian clubs

Hash House Harriers Bahrain Road Runners

Photography

Bahrain Pottery Society Studio Ceramics

17 690-926 17 262-143 17 291-527 17 258-520 17 278-245 17 593-593 17 253-157 17 231-354 3 9455-207

17 290-101 17 535-112 17 547-700 17 298-777 17 753-475

Music

Bahrain Music Institute Classic Institute of Music Manama Singers Sar Music Centre

Dilmun Club Filipino Club Marina Club Pakistan Club The British Club The Country Club The Indian Club The Sri Lanka Club The Young Goans Club

Health Clubs (Hotels)

Kids Fitness Centres

Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports (CHAOSS) 17 592-096 My Gym Bahrain 17 566-566

Z Club DesiSutra desiVdesi Grindz held a show titled 'Desi Sutra' featuring DJ Rinkfrom India. The event was held at Z Club, Pars International Hotel in Juffair

Danny & Uday

Gautam, Sidharth & DJ Ibbi

Nancy & Nabil Anily, Sol & Galina

3 6992-288

Ballet Centre 3 9676-349 Victoria Dance Centre 3 9876-215 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

Cricket

Ez-Fit SportPlex SLC grounds, Riffa

17 692-378 17 276-134

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football The Country Club

17 692-378 17 695-809 17 593-593

Football & Rugby Horse Riding

Safraz & Nabil

Raji & Jane

Awali Riding Club 17 756-525 Dilmun Club 17 692-986 Riding School 17 690-448 Shakhoora Riding School 17 591-103 The Country Club 17 593-593

Marine & Sailing Sailing Club Yacht Club

Martial Arts

17 700-677 17 700-677

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Al Hala Sports Club 3 9966-139 Balouch Club 17 292-231 British Club 17 728-245 Delmon Tae Kwon Do School 3 9689-659 Taichi & Wushu Centre 3 6437-931

Henry, Namita, Farida, Nadia & Seanora

Health Fitness Fitness Gyms

Al Gosaibi Gym Coral Beach Club Dessange Health Club Ez-Fit Sportsplex

17 293-221 17 312-777 17 713-999 17 692-379

Shah, Sunny, Ronnie & Nasser

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3 4

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1. Mubarak Bin Ahmed Al Fadhel 2. The Gulf Hotel 3. Abdulla Al Khan 4. Holger Jackisch

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What does Hana Tawfeeqi like? ___________________________

9. Sucker Punch 10. Gudaibiya

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7

Where can you find Animania? ___________________________

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4.

BTM September 2011 149

tarotscopethismonth

Virgo

Aug 23 – Sep 22 You will be in your element this month as certain factors come together to return some balance to your life, which had been particularly hectic in July and August. However, this more positive state is only likely if you are honest and, to a certain extent, courageous enough to take a difficult emotional situation in hand and finally lay it to rest. Do this and your mind and life in general will be peaceful and trouble free, especially where family and close relationships are concerned. On the financial front, you are also due a little good fortune and this may come in the shape of an unexpected bonus at work that boosts your income at the last minute and may even have you thinking of a short break abroad.

Card of the Month — The Four of Swords For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Libra September 23 – October 21 Your star sign is renowned for its affection and generosity of spirit.

However, this month you will be accused of hurting the feelings of someone close to you by not identifying exactly what you want from a relationship. Still, doubts introduced into your thoughts by someone who has an ulterior motive to disrupt you are making you think twice over long-term relationship plans. While such intrusiveness is unnecessary, remember no one can put things in your head so stand by your gut feeling; love cannot be judged with reason or logic. What you feel is all that counts.

Card of the Month —Judgement

Scorpio October 22 – November 21 Underneath all the disguises and confused emotions lurk your true feelings about your past; a subject that in most cases you have kept very well hidden up until now. However, someone you’ve chosen to confide in may finally help you to come to terms with what has for so long haunted your thoughts. We carry certain demons with us all our lives simply because we do not possess the courage to confront and exorcise them. In September, you will be given the opportunity to do just that so, no matter how much it might hurt, grasp this chance with enthusiasm. The number 9 will hold a special key to ambition and success in your preferred field of work so look out for it when it surfaces.

Card of the Month — The Chariot

150 September 2011 BTM

Sagittarius November 22 – December 21 If you were worried that this year was not turning out as expected it could do then maybe this September your faith in the world, and in particular your life, will once again be restored. Property problems from August will have by now been pretty much resolved and the light at the end of the tunnel is bright and will engulf you in respect to this project by the middle of the month. There is a positive aura surrounding you and this will inspire those around you as they find your renewed optimism so infectious. A lady of past significance will reappear on the 17th sparking a row considered long forgotten back to life, blotting an otherwise perfect copybook for September.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Cups

Capricorn December 22 – January 18 For many cultures, September is considered harvest time and it will provide a very special harvest for you as you reap the rewards of past financial investments. Money that you put aside some time ago will mature and offer a good return that you should now consider cashing in. Don’t allow any element of greed to creep into your thinking — just get out while you’re ahead. On the relationship front, decisions made in August will now be having a strong influence on your thinking and you could find yourself fighting back the tears if the outcome was not as positive as you would have wanted. It all goes to illustrate that life sometimes has a cruel streak; giving with one hand and then taking with the other.

Card of the Month —The Seven of Coins Aquarius ­January 20 — February 18 You cannot always satisfy everyone around you and decisions you will be forced to make in September are bound to upset someone affected by the implications of your actions. What you need to do as a person is accept this rather than being concerned with keeping the peace. You have had a rough time emotionally and consequently you may be thinking you deserve a better deal. Life is not just about sacrifice for the sake of others and on occasions it is important to be selfish. After all, without sparring time for yourself and keeping your own needs satisfied how can you expect others to love you and ever understand you?

Things are moving up for you so live a little for yourself rather than anyone else.

Card of the Month — The Emperor

Pisces February 21 – March 20 Money spent on a holiday or recent home improvements will leave your bank balance feeling lightweight and this could have a negative knock-on effect in other areas of your life. You may find that if you are living with someone the argument quota rises a little and the pressures put upon you by children will not alleviate the situation any. All in all, things could get to quite a heated state and you will need to have your thoughts in order and your feet firmly on the ground. This is no time for the typical Piscean dreamer to start drifting off to fantasy island in the hope that ignoring what’s going on will make it go away. Don’t be an ostrich and bury your head in the sand or you will regret it later Card of the Month — The Knight of Cups

Aries ­March 21 – April 20 This month is going to see you pulling out all the stops as you endeavour to get a long overdue task completed, which in turn will assist you in moving your career to the next level. For too long now you have been operating under a culture of acceptance and this does not fit well with your personality. You need to be true to yourself and worry less about what others might think and more about what makes you happy. On the family front, news of a relative falling sick will galvanise some of you into taking control of a situation that needs leadership but you could end up with more than you bargained for.

Card of the Month — The High Priestess

advertisersindex Taurus April 21 – May 20 The pope has very strong links with your sign and the omens for you across much of September remain positive. Many of you will return to the workplace refreshed from holiday and ready to approach new and exciting challenges with renewed optimism and invention.

This will be particularly evident on the 12th when you impress others in your company with your views, and your comments will be noted and appreciated. On the romance front, you could find yourself attracted to a work colleague you hadn’t really noticed before; but this could be more about problems at home than genuine interest.

Card of the Month — The Pope

GEMINI May 21 – June 22 Money can always be a challenge for your sign, mainly because while you can excel at making it, you are also never that prudent when spending it. Your shopping habits can be impulsive and often eccentric to say the least. If anything, some of you would do well to seek advice for the future on how to keep hold of more of your income. Try to rein yourself in when it comes to making impressions and remember that splashing the cash for the sake of popularity very rarely brings you genuine friendships or relationships.

There is more to you than that and you need to talk up what lies inside.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Coins

Cancer ­June 21 – July 20 It looks like the worst of your conflicts from last month are behind you now but that doesn’t mean it is all plain sailing into September for all of you. There is still a lot of work to be done to get things back to the way they used to be and you will have to twist a few arms and be at your most accommodating before you can embrace a full return to normality. When the dust has settled, it might be a good idea to analyse what led you to where you were so that you don’t revisit that place again. You might be surprised that a young man rests at the heart of much of it!

Card of the Month —The Nine of Wands

leo July 23 — August 22 True romance creeps slowly into your life this September as you seek to occupy yourself elsewhere. In fact, it may come as such a surprise that you could be lost for words, initially, since the person who has amorous intentions towards you is not someone you would have expected to take an interest. Still, once the emotions are out in the open, there is no sense in holding back — providing you want to! For those of you who have often wondered if there is such a thing as true love, this could turn out to be it!

Aries is most likely to lead the chase but watch out also for a shy Sagittarian who has more than a passing interest. It seems at long last that the pains of past romantic failures are truly behind you.

Card of the Month — The Six of Cups

FAMOUS Virgo THIS MONTH

Fashion & Footwear ALDO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Charles & Keith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 H&M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3 Jashanmal & Sons (Clarks) . . . . . . . . . . IBC Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Tommy Hilfiger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Financial Institutions bni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Nexus Financial Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Home and Furnishings Komandor Middle East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Hotel & Luxury Apartments Fraser Suites Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Pars International Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Ramee Baisan Hotel (The Warbler) . . . . 96 Ramee Int’l Hotel (Rocky’s Café) . . . . . .101 The Dragon Hotel & Resort . . . . . . . . . . 80

Jewellery & Watches Al Sarraj Jewellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Cartier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Chanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC-1 Sharif Group (Puma) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Motoring Budget Rent-A-Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 E. K. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Euro Motors (MINI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16-17 Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . . . . . . 37 Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons (Nissan) . . . . . . 31

Telecommunications

Telecommunications Regulatory Auth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18-19

available at the following selected outlets:

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets

● Park Supermarket, Mahooz

● Alosra Supermarket, Saar

● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai

● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop

● Other leading Cold Stores and

● BooksPlus, all outlets

News Stands All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a omplimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting ww.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

● Burhama Cold Store

● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant

Richard Gere

Block 338 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Bushido . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47,104 Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Esquires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 FreshBerry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Nuasia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Passion for Dessert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Trader Vic’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Yum Chow! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is

● Elite Supermarket, Hoora

Colin Firth

Restaurants and Cafés

BTM retail sales outlets

● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain

Blake Lively

Other Advertisers

AMA School of Basic Education. . . . . . 120 Bahrain City Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Bahrain Institute for Retail Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Dessange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 e-Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Everest Trading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Everest Trading (Bilbor) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Falak Enterprises. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Gajria Electronics (Olympus) . . . . . . . . . . 99 Group Plus (Radio Bahrain) . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Gulf Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,11,13 Gulf Assist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58,89 Juffair Fitness Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Junaid for Perfumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Lulu Hypermarkets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Mohd Fakhro Bros. (Philips) . . . . . . . . . 103 Nespresso . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Nestle Talent Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Seef Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Seven Leisure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Star International Real Estate . . . . . . . 127 World Beat Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . 93

● Mega Mart, all outlets

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from National Photo Services, Gudaibiya 17 742-955.

BTM September 2011 151

lastword

Ice-cream; You Scream!

JAMES CLAIRE If I ever get down, feel low or just need my batteries recharged, I always like to do it with a scoop of ice-cream.

152 September 2011 BTM

Nothing says summer, or peace of mind, like sitting alone licking a double scoop of frozen perfection. Ice-cream is a noninvasive comfort food of unbelievable magnitude.

I also happen to be a hobby chef, and quite the dab hand at the craft. Not only do I like eating the stuff but I always have on hand a tub of Tahitian vanilla bean ice-cream. For my guests, there’s double chocolate or cinnamon pecan crunch when they need a soothing dessert, a sorbet of lemon, pineapple or mango for a palette cleanser and a gelato or two for that moment of wicked pleasure.

Ice-cream is straight out of our childhood; it has surpassed fads, trends, fashions and has remained our friend. Through good times and bad, it is a bastion of the household freezer. It is one of those foods that belong in the hallowed halls of dishes which transcend the requirement of foreplay. Ice-cream is everything, it completes us.

Then, of course, came the 21st century and every chef decided he was a mad scientist using the food we love to garner themselves ratings and headlines, using our palettes and dining dollars to take experimentalism too far. If I want breakfast, I want it how I expect it — preferably on a plate, piping hot, with toast and a coffee.

What I do not want is my breakfast mashed, passed through a chinois and churned into a frozen treat and served in scoops!

Heston Blumenthal became famous for his egg and bacon ice-cream, to name one of the strange concoctions he has come up with. He is renowned for his avante-garde approach to food and his intellectual understanding of our palettes; his creativity has certainly earned him more than enough stars, Michelin and otherwise.

But ice-cream — not in my lifetime! Isn’t anything sacred any more?

I love cooking; I do understand the experimentalism. It is what sets good chefs apart from great chefs, Blumenthal being the latter. But I like my ice-cream; all I’m asking is that we leave the eggs and bacon where they belong, for breakfast.

Perhaps chefs should try to understand their customers rather than toying with the food they eat at their establishments What customers want, in my opinion, is value for money and a decent experience.

I dined at an uber-trendy Japanese establishment recently.

We ordered, ate, paid and the cost, excluding liquid libations was BD52. And yet, on the way home my companion had stomach pains; not from the food, but from hunger. She never even flinched when I pulled into at a ‘drive-thru’; she was as starved as I was.

I do not care how rare the ingredients are or if the cinnamon has been hand-picked by village virgins on the left side of the Northern-most mountain-top of some pristine country. And, I don’t need the cow to be hydrated on tequila slammers or sake, or fed a diet of food that I can’t even afford.

I just want a steak and mashed potato with seasonal vegetables without getting a phone call from the credit department at Visa about exceeding my spending limit.

Many chefs complain that customers are more difficult since the credit crisis and that we don’t venture out as much as we did before. I see life a little differently.

Instead, I see that chefs have not returned to their senses, and are forcing customers to consider fast-food as the only affordable and filling choice we have for a meal.

Do they all think we are stupid? It might cost BD1 for a flame-grilled burger at a quick service restaurant; yet these gourmands want to charge us BD6 for the same thing.

And don’t discuss the issue of scaling economics with me.

Let me suggest that chefs should slash their prices, drive up customer demand and then they, too, will find the economics running in their favour. If you can’t stand the heat of the kitchen, go sit in a freezer and eat some ice-cream!

Jim Fiebig once stated, “Age doesn’t diminish the extreme disappointment of having a scoop of ice-cream fall from the cone.” And, he is right; except it can be more disappointing to find the wrong flavours whipped into ice-cream, too. I mean, how does one make a banana split with egg and bacon icecream or chocolate and chilli gelato?

Some things in life are perfect the way they are — someone should explain this to all those star-busting chefs out. In the meantime, I’m off to ‘you know where’, for ‘you know what’!

When it comes to school shoes, Clarks are right on the button.

Every style is made to last longer, so your money goes further.

INCA/JN/1802

Whole sizes, half sizes and a range of widths mean the fit is always just right, comfortably caring for growing feet.

And, as well as having fun built in, our school shoes for boys and girls look great too.

To find out more and to receive the lunch bag we’re giving away with every pair, visit your nearest stockist.

*One Jack Nano or Daisy Magic Steps lunch bag free with every pair of full price kids’ shoes. Subject to availability.

Clarks Seef Mall - Tel: 17 581121, Clarks City Center – Tel: 17 178410

www.trinity.cartier.com

Trinity. All about you forever

Cartier Boutique in BAHRAIN: Moda Mall, Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) - 17533 333 / 17530 555