Bahrain This Month - August 2018

DINING – SUMMER READING – DOWNTIME

Since 1997

August 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 8

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

INDIA IN BAHRAIN

TRAVEL SPECIAL

Kyrgyzstan through the lens of intrepid snapper Sawsan Taher Great Eid Getaways

A Special Supplement

VICE ADM SCOTT STEARNEY New man at the helm of the US 5th Fleet

iew

First Interv

HAPPENINGS

MOTORING

Summer Festival Beach Parties Galore Eid Concerts Arts

Culture

Petrolheads’ Summer Camp

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

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Issue 252

Contents August 2018 HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of August 2018: 15

Summer Festival

16

Mangrove Magic

The 10th edition of the extended Bahrain Summer Festival continues with entertainment for young and old alike.

26

A chance to see the island’s beautifully preserved mangrove forests.

18

Lucky Charms

A wonderful opportunity for children to engross themselves in a magical atmosphere.

20 Violin

Melodies

Celebrate Eid al-Adha with a musical concert by violinist Maria Kravtsova.

22 Cartoons

Come to Life

Cartoon Network Live! brings all your favourite characters to life in a musical.

36

38

Visit www.bahrainthismonth.com for a comprehensive list of daily events.

INTERVIEWS 26-27

Ensuring Security

Vice Admiral Scott Stearney, newly arrived commander of the US 5th Fleet, talks to BTM.

28

50

54

Passion Forward

Coral Bay’s new business development manager on his journey and future goals.

Talking Cars

30

BTM caught up with recently appointed GM of Al Haddad Motors, Warren Hudson.

FEATURE 35-55

62

65 Bystander Our photographers have been busy out and about at the inauguration of the new Indian Embassy, the celebration of French Bastille Day and US 4th of July celebrations as well as openings, parties and lots more. Check out the Bystander pages to see if you made the cut!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

India in Bahrain

A special supplement commemorating India’s 72nd Independence Day and bilateral relations between the two nations.

Motoring 59

My Life in Cars

Dick Potter shares his passion for motors.

60

The Business Taskmaster

JAC’s M1 Refine defines the role of a business efficiency.

62-63

Testing A Legend

Bill Grieve checked out some iconic vehicles at Camp Jeep 2018 in Austria.

64-65 Motoring

Bites

BTM brings you the latest news from the motoring world.

August 2018 5

Issue 252

Contents August 2018 Dining 67

A Taste of Turkey

Liz O’Reilly checks out the latest offering from the Ramee Group’s flagship property.

68

100

Meals on Wheels

Talabat has offers you simply cannot refuse.

70

Hidden Gems in Bahrain 71-72 Table Hopping

Dining gossip from around the island.

Showcase 74-81 Marketplace: Latest products and services.

82-84

Business Bites

LIFESTYLE 85

What’s New: Must-have products

Downtime

67

97

86-87 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town

Music: Top tunes 89 Computer Games: The hot games of the month 90 Apps: Essential apps 91 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 92 Movies: New releases 93-94 Books: Summer Reading 88

Travel 96-99 Kyrgyzstan

Through A Lens 100-101 Great Eid Getaways

Regulars 104 Tarotscope

88 85

92

105

AD Index WIN

106 WIN

88 Connect with Bahrain This Month:

87 www.bahrainthismonth.com

92

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

www.facebook.com/bahrainthismonth www.twitter.com/BHThisMonth www.instagram/bahrainthismonth www.YouTube.com/bahrainthismonth

August 2018 7

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THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month August 2018

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Editor Apple Sharma Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Dick Potter, Bill Grieve, Suzanne Nicholas

Feeling hot, hot, hot! Welcome to the August edition, which finds those of us still on the island sweltering in what are apparently the hottest July temperatures ever.

If you’re looking for ways to keep the kids busy and cool until the return to school, there is still lots to do at the extended Summer Festival with performances featured in our Happenings pages and a whole host of ongoing workshops, which you can find online at www. bahrainthismonth.com August means it’s Indian Independence Day and our annual look at relations between the subcontinent and Bahrain. His Excellency Alok Kumar Sinha, Indian Ambassador, showed Liz O’Reilly around the rather fabulous new embassy in Seef whilst talking all things trade and culture. And Liz also caught up with Kishore Kumar, whose son, Shanthosh, has his sights set on a Formula One future. Bahrain’s Indian community is nothing if not active and sociable, so we’ve put together an updated listing of clubs and societies. And, for those planning a visit to the subcontinent, I would recommend you check-out the round-up of very special train journeys.

Our interview section this month features something of a coup in the shape of the first Bahrain interview with Vice Admiral Scott Stearney, the new man in command of US Naval Forces Central Command, the US 5th Fleet and the Combined Maritime Forces. Among other things, he says its time to change tactics to keep potential adversaries off guard.

In the motoring section, you’ll find a report from Bill Grieve who headed off to Austria for Camp Jeep exciting more than a little envy in the office.

And there’s more travel in the Lifestyle section with Eid getaways and a very special feature from photographer and intrepid adventurer Sawsan Taher, who took herself and her camera to remote Kyrgyzstan to capture some brilliant images, one of which graces our front page.

The dining section features a review of Antalya, the new offering at the Ramee Grand, and there’s the regular round-up of news from the food and beverage industry.

As always the Downtime section features information on the latest films, music, gadgets and more to keep you occupied if you want to stay out of the heat.

However you’re spending August, don’t leave home without Bahrain This Month, your guide to a great way of life.

Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel, Hatem Monem

Photography Editor Mona Abdul Jabbar Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Roanna Fernandes

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) Media Sales RANDA GHAZI HOWAIS randa@redhousemarketing.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: info@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2018 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

•

Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month.

COVER Cover Picture:

Kyrgyzstan by Sawsan Taher

Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3

DINING – SUMMER READING – DOWNTIME

Since 1997

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

August 2018 ~ Vol. 23 ~ Issue 8

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24 Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

INDIA IN BAHRAIN

TRAVEL SPECIAL

Kyrgyzstan through the lens of intrepid snapper Sawsan Taher Great Eid Getaways

A Special Supplement

VICE ADM SCOTT STEARNEY New man at the helm of the US 5th Fleet

w

First Intervie

HAPPENINGS

MOTORING

Summer Festival Beach Parties Galore Eid Concerts Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Culture

Petrolheads’ Summer Camp

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Scan this QR Code to subscribe to the digital edition of the magazine.

Nightlife

August 2018 9

bystander

Bastille Day Celebration

HE Cécile Longé, French Ambassador, hosted a reception to celebrate the French National Bastille Day at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Dignitaries, ambassadors and invited guests attended the event.

Amal & HE Mohammed bin Yousif

The cake-cutting ceremony

Mehdi & Rafiea Raeda & HE Cécile Longe

Pat, Joseph & HE Thanis Na Songkhla

Anna, Kosta & Anna Marie

Oumou & Zara

Elie, Jean Philippe & Rodolphe

Zineb & Shaima

Emre, Ayten & Ines

Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa & HE Domenico Bellato

Ali & Ghizlane

Arnavaz & HE Justin Siberell

Martin & Babette

10 August 2018

Rodolphe, Louise, Max & Jalal

Mohammed & Waleed Al Rayes

HE Rami Saleh Al Warikat Al Adwan & HE Domenico Bellato

HE Anwar Alabdulla & Nasser Al Arayedh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Farewell Party

German Deputy Head of Mission, Martin Lรถtzer, and wife Babette, hosted a farewell party for HE Alfred SimmsProtz, and wife Perwin, at their residence in Hamala.

Babette & Martin Lรถtzer, HE Alfred Simms-Protz & Perwin

Ayten & Levent

Karin & Pontus

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Tim, Sandra & Glen

Nour Suliman & Ingo Giesel

Kosta & Anna

Manfred, Ingo, Barbara & Martin

Lunghi, Birgit, Babette, Barbara, Sarina & Sherine

August 2018 11

bystander

Sherif, Yamashita & HE Suha Ibrahim Mohammed Rifaat

On-board Reception

HE Hideki Ito, Japanese Ambassador, and Rear Admiral Hiroyuki Izumi, Commander of Japan Training Squadron, Japan Maritime Self Defense Force, hosted a reception on board the JS Kashima (TV-3508).

RADM Hiroyuki Izumi & HE Hideki Ito

Laura & Michael

Mohammed & Gillespie

Toshaya & Yama

HE Thanis Na Songkhla & Rak

Ajita

Sato, Sugano & Obinata

Martin, Murad & HE Dr A S U Mendis

Terry, Nakai & Takenouchi

Sing, Saw & Clarence

Gillespie & Mohammed Jowder

HE Padam Sundas, HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo & Karl

Nasser, Hassan & Mohammed

12 August 2018

Saw, Dainton, Caroline & Steve

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Darren, Javan & George

Donald, Tess & Tiffany

US Independence Day

Naval Support Activity Bahrain celebrated the US Independence Day at its base.

Bex, Tamara & Lafferty

Jak, Ryan & Tracy

Joe, Jill, Jasmine & Joel

Jay, Xavier, Ayden & Steven

Josh, Nate & Tara Belinda

Mary, Drew & Nathaniel

Zak, Penaiah, Sarah & Stefanie

Javan, Alexander & Ashley

Ayelle & Zoe

Bella, Michael & Michael Jr

Jeff, Sandy and Family

Kartik, Skye, Ocean & Karen

Aida & Aria Hezou, Faith, Ezekiel & Bezeyem

Nicole, Isabella, Olivia & Scott

14 August 2018

Maliah & Josiah

Cassey & Newcomb

Anna, Nora & Adam

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

AUGUST 2018-HAPPENINGS The 10th edition of the extended Bahrain Summer Festival Continues with shows films and more for young and old alike.

MOVIE TIME FRIDAYS

STRINGS ATTACHED

FILM RAINBOW JELLY

Nakhool Tent Cinema Hall, Arad Fort

Director Soukarya Ghoshal’s Bengali film, Rainbow Jelly, entwines sweetness, tanginess and spice to take your emotions on a wild rollercoaster ride.

India’s first food-fantasy film Rainbow Jelly tells the story of Ghoton who, being an autistic orphan boy, is deprived of the love and affection shown to other kids of his age.

Continuously tortured by his maternal uncle and mocked as ‘awpoyar chhele’ (son of unlucky woman) by his neighbours, Ghoton earnestly desires to escape from harsh reality and dreams that one day his world would be perfect with joy and happiness. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Poripisi, a mysterious lady who makes a magical dish, ‘Rainbow Jelly,’ which illuminates all the seven colours of the world.

7pm. Free.

WHERE THE MAGIC HAPPENS AUGUST 2, 9 AND 16

MAGIC SHOW

Events Tent, Arad Fort

AUGUST 1, 7, 8, 14 AND 15

FOLKLORE ON THE MIND AUGUST 1 AND 3

SUDANESE FOLKLORE

Events Tent, Arad Fort

In collaboration with the Sudanese Embassy in Bahrain, Al-Nawares (Seagulls) Cultural Troupe performs a number of dance and song vignettes that highlight the rich diversity of Sudanese heritage.

Suitable for ages five and above.

8.15pm. Free. Arabic.

MOROCCAN THEATRE AUGUST 10

BOULAAYALAT

Cultural Hall

A comedic play that follows the story of Abdeljabbar, a rich merchant who gets himself into a series of humorous sticky situations after he takes on a second wife to bear him the child he so desires to be the inheritor of his vast fortune.

Suitable for ages five and above.

8pm. Free. Arabic.

COME NOSE AROUND PINOCCHIO

Events Tent, Arad Fort

Puppet theatre specialist Ramadan Yousif presents a series of educational and entertaining puppet shows inspired by local heritage, animal stories, great adventures, folk tales and traditional games.

Suitable for five years and above.

7pm. Free. Arabic.

Well-known Bahraini artist Walid presents a series of magic tricks on the Nakhool Stage, punctuated by comedy and lighthearted fun for adults and children to enjoy.

Suitable for five years and above.

7pm. Free.

AUGUST 4

PUPPET SHOW

Events Tent, Arad Fort

An adaptation by Missoula Theatre, from the USA, of one of the most beloved children’s stories of all time, the story picks up after Pinocchio was given the gift of life and follows him on a magical adventure where he learns that there are no shortcuts on the road to becoming a real, live boy.

Suitable for ages five and above.

7pm. Free. English.

THAT’S AZAL FOLKS AUGUST 11 AND 17

YEMENI FOLKLORE SHOW

Events Tent, Arad Fort

Bahrain-based Azal Troupe from Yemen performs traditional song and dance vignettes that draw from the proud ancient heritage of Yemen’s various regions, as well as a comedic sketch-style play that highlights the importance of education in the region. The show is directed by the country’s cultural attaché, Adam Saif, assisted by Issa Al-Humaidi.

Suitable for five years and above.

8.15pm. Free. Arabic. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain Summer Festival has a huge range of workshops, including special needs options, as well as activities for tiny tots, film screenings and exhibitions. Scan here to see the full schedule in English and Arabic.

August 2018 15

happenings

MANGROVE MAGIC ONGOING DAILY

MANGROVE TOURS

Tubli Bay

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority has launched mangrove tours giving visitors the chance to see the island’s beautifully preserved mangrove forests from the water. Departing daily between 8am and 4pm from Sitra Park, there is also a second boat tour taking in Tubli Bay, which covers around 100sq/km.

Each of the tours aims to showcase a specific area of interest in line with the authority’s aim of bringing more tourists to the Kingdom.

Tickets are BD5 per person for the 40-minute mangrove boat trip.

8am to 4pm. http://portal.btea.bh/mangrove.

A GRAVE MATTER ONGOING DAILY

HALL OF GRAVES RELAUNCH

WORK HARD, PLAY HARDER Bahrain National Museum

After nearly five years of work, the Hall of Dilmun Graves at Bahrain National Museum has been completely refurbished and is now open to the public. Having achieved its three goals – significant expansion of the exhibition space, paving a way for the museum to exhibit its latest collection in more interdisciplinary ways and inclusion of the latest archaeological research – the exhibition allows for clear understanding of the historic value and uniqueness of the Dilmun burial traditions. Designed

by French architect Didier Blin, the refurbished Hall of Graves is a great step up from the previous exhibition while still preserving the original reconstitution of the Dilmun burial mounds.

8am-8pm Call 17 298-777.

AUGUST 1

SHADES OF PLAY FEATURING MARK ROBINSON

Play

Not your average event, this one. Pull a fun all-nighter at this brunch with a twist, running from 9pm all the way through to 2am. Featuring fine food and talented DJ Mark Robinson fresh from the Pukka Up boat parties and residencies at Pacha and Amnesia in Ibiza on the decks. The latest in a series of seriously cool night brunches, Mark’s dedication to progressive house promises a fab way to unplug on Hump Day. Entry is by reservation only.

9pm-2am.

Call 17 100-345.

BEACH BEATS AUGUST 3

BEACH BEAT MUSIC FESTIVAL DANCE 4 LIFE

Coral Bay

Internationals DJs from Europe will be playing at the longest music festival on the island promising hours of non-stop music, two dance floors, pool, beach, food and drink, from 3pm onwards. From hip-hop, R&B and reggae to house, EDM, techno and more, this is going to be a beach bash you won’t want to miss. A V3 Designs spectacularly designed stage, fire dancers, LED dancers and a massive light show will also add to the party vibe in a big way.

There are top DJs on the main stage decks with a line-up that includes DJ Dime, VJMP3, Jackson, and DJs Riddler, LinaColada and Soufe. Also keeping you entertained with deep house, tech house and techno will be Otome Records DJs on the Otome Stage Pre-sale tickets are priced at BD12. Entry on the night is BD15.

3pm.

Call 66 331-366 / 66 302-112 / 17 312-700 16 August 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

JJ’S IRISH RESTAURANT P R O U D LY P R E S E N T S

L I V E

9PM EVERY WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY 7PM EVERY FRIDAY ( AFTER BRUNCH PARTY) SUPPORTED BY DJ ARON WOLF

OFTEN COPIED NEVER BETTERED FOR BOOKINGS & INFO 33843005 JJ’s Irish Restaurant

@JJsBahrain

JJsBahrain

jjsirishrestaurant.com

JJ’s Irish Restaurant Adliya Tel, 00973 17742323 Opening hours: 12noon-2am

happenings

LUCKY CHARMS AUGUST 4

When? Ongoing Daily Event? Mangrove Tours Venue? Tubli Bay http://portal.btea.bh/ mangrove

UNICORN ACRYLIC PAINT AND MOSAIC WORKSHOP

The Art House

This is an awesome opportunity for children to engross themselves in a magical atmosphere at The Art House, which is hosting a unicornthemed one-day event featuring acrylic painting on canvas and mosaic. Priced at BD20, it includes all materials, face painting and themed snacks. The workshop starts at 10am and carries on till 1pm.

10am-1pm.

Call 39 253-943.

JUNIORS CROWNED

When? Ongoing Daily AUGUST 10 LITTLE MISS AND LITTLE MISTER BAHRAIN 2018 Event? Hall of Graves Relaunch Venue? Bahrain National Museum With auditions that ran throughout July, the contestants Call 17 298-777. for Little Miss and Little Mister Bahrain 2018 have been chosen. The Grand Finals will be held at Adhari Park When? August 1 Event? Shades of Play featuring offering a chance for kids aged five to nine years to have fun and make new friends this summer. The event will Mark Robinson Venue? Play, Jumeirah Royal showcase a talent competition, a Q&A section and will see Saray the contestants of various nationalities model evening Call 17 100-345 clothes and their country’s traditional outfits. With tickets priced at BD1, the event is open to all. Come show these When? August 2–4, 10am– ‘little misses and misters’ some love.

10pm Event? Al Aali Mall Clearance 10am-5pm.

Venue? Al Aali Shopping Mall Call 36 361-195.

The second mall clearance for this year will be held on the first floor of the new extension area in Gate 2. Popular brands such as MariaPino, Vogue, Meemo Space, Muse C, ABS, Pinko, Trousseau, Namli and Chocofoz will be up for grabs for great prices.

AN ITALIAN CLASSIC AUGUST 14

MOVIE NIGHT

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

Call 17 581-000.

When? August 2, 8pm–10pm Event? Sun Protection Educational Event Venue? Grands Medical by Marafie Clinic

Adhari Park

SAVE A LIFE AUGUST 15

TOGETHER WE CARE 4TH ANNUAL BLOOD DONATION CAMP

Salmaniya Hospital

An educational event about the importance of sun protection and using sun screen, with a free consultation with Dr Ranya Kayed and Dr Hanan Marafie, coupled with Buy 1 Get 1 Free offers.

Call 17 587-557.

Enjoy the Oscar-winning classic movie, Casanova, at La Fontaine. A 1976 Italian film by director Federico Fellini, it’s adapted from the When? August 3 autobiography of Giacomo Casanova, the 18th century adventurer Event? Beat Beach Music and writer.

Festival DANCE 4 LIFE The film portrays Casanova’s life as a journey into trivial sexual Venue? Coral Bay Call 66 331-366 / 66 302abandonment. Any meaningful emotion or sensuality is eclipsed by 112 / 17 312-700 increasingly strange situations. The narrative presents Casanova’s adventures in a detached, methodical fashion, as the respect for When? August 3, 4pm–6pm which he yearns is constantly undermined by his more basic urges.

Event? Synchronicity Sound It won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design, with the Oscar Healing Workshop going to Danilo Donati.

Venue? 131.6 Yoga Studio Bahrain, Amwaj The screening will be held at 8pm, and is priced at BD10+, which In collaboration with @sage.bh. @ can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening.

Vegan_nourah invites you to a 8pm. soothing music-assisted selfCall 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or healing workshop priced at BD20. follow Instagram @lafontainebh Call 37 343-535.

18 August 2018

In cooperation with Salmaniya Blood Bank and One Bahrain Hospitality, Together We Care brings you an opportunity to save a life by donating blood. The Blood Donation Campaign will commence at 8am and run through to 11am.

In keeping with the aim to make a difference by spreading kindness that will create a ripple effect, help someone in need with the most precious resource you can offer.

Time 8am-11am.

Call 66 391-715. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? August 4 Event? Unicorn Acrylic Paint and Mosaic Workshop Venue? The Art House Call 39 253-943.

When? August 8, 7.0pm Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue: ARTDIVANO (Gallery), Al Andalus Garden, Gudaibiya

Join likeminded people for discussion and insight in a social setting.

Call 39 574-795.

When? August 10 Event? Little Miss and Little Mister Bahrain 2018 Venue? Adhari Park Call 36 361-195.

When? August 13, 7.30pm Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue: ERA Tower, Seef (opposite elite Grande Hotel)

Members of the writers’ circle get together for tips and discussions.

Call 39 574-795.

When? August 14 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or follow Instagram @ lafontainebh When? August 15 Event? Together We Care 4th Annual Blood Donation Camp Venue? Salmaniya Hospital Call 66 391-715.

VIOLIN MELODIES AUGUST 22

EID MUSIC CONCERT

TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

Celebrate Eid al-Adha with a musical concert by violinist Maria Kravtsova at La Fontaine. Maria is a world-class live and recording violinist from the Ukraine, with a degree in music from Kharkov State University of Arts. She has performed all over the world, both as a soloist and as part of the Dnepropetrovsk State Philharmonic Orchestra, and has had a studio album released under her name in recent years.

Enjoy the concert and dinner, with a fixed menu from the restaurant’s specials.

Tickets are priced at BD20+.

8.30pm-10.15pm.

Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or follow Instagram @lafontainebh

SECOND OF EID

NUHA HAFEZ, A TRIBUTE TO SHADIA

Cultural Hall

In celebration of Eid al-Adha, the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt, presents a concert honouring the legacy of the late legendary singer Shadia, presented by the talented Egyptian singer Nuha Hafez accompanied by the Bahrain Music Band.

An actress and singer, Shadia was famous for her roles in light comedies and drama in the 1950s and ‘60s. She is one of the iconic actresses and singers in Egypt and the Middle East region and a symbol of the golden age of Egyptian cinema.

Her work is still hugely influential and critics consider her the most important and successful comprehensive Egyptian and Arabic artist of all time.

8pm. Entry Free.

Call 17 298-777.

UV EID AUGUST 23

BLACK LIGHT POOL PARTY

Coral Bay

LEGO FUN AUGUST 22-31

LEGO SHOWS

Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

When? August 20, 7.30pm Event? Bahrain Writers’ Creative Workshop Venue: The Juffair Grand Hotel Coffee Shop, Juffair Advice, information and presentations to help you take you writing to the next step.

Call 39 574-795.

When? August 22 Event? Eid Music Concert Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or follow Instagram @ lafontainebh

After last year’s phenomenal success with parents and children alike, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority brings you round two of the island’s much anticipated Lego Shows. It’s suitable for all ages, with last year’s event seeing equal popularity among parents and children alike.

When? Second of Eid Boasting Lego Star Wars, Lego Disney Princess, Lego Event? Nuha Hafez, A Tribute to Superheroes (Marvel), Lego City and many more, this Eid alShadia Adha event invites the whole family to come along and have Venue? Cultural Hall fun with the world’s favourite bricks.

Call 17 298-777.

Call 17 558-800.

20 August 2018

GroundRULEZ and Coral Bay bring you a black light pool party – the first of its kind on the island – which will see the whole performance area covered with black lights and featuring a group of unique DJs bringing you the best of hip-hop, R&B, house, EDM and more. This event will be unlike any other pool party you’ve been to. From 4pm onwards, the evening is yours to make unforgettable memories over the long Eid break.

Pre-sale tickets are priced at BD5 and entry is BD10 on the door.

Call 38 888-019. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? August 22-31 Event? Lego Shows Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre Call 17 558-800.

When? August 23 Event? Black Light Pool Party Venue? Coral Bay Call 38 888-019.

When? August 23-26 Event? ‘Cartoon Network Live!

Heroes Unite’ Stage Show Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre Tickets: https://manama. platinumlist.net/eventtickets/70739/cartoon-networklive When? August 23, 9pm – 2am Event? Arabic Fusion Party Venue? Meisei Bahrain Celebrate Eid-Al-Adha in style at an Arabic fusion party hosted by resident DJ Salime. Dinner reservations from 7pm and the party vibes set in at 10pm.

Call 17 007-770.

When? August 31, Sept 1, 7 and 8 Event? Advanced Financial Modelling Bootcamp Venue? Swiss International Palace Hotel Call +1 518 635 8456 or WhatsApp +1 929 314 8341.

When? September 4 – 6 Event? Personal Leadership Workshop Venue? Oasis Training Centre

CARTOONS COME TO LIFE AUGUST 23-26

CARTOON NETWORK LIVE! HEROES UNITE’ STAGE SHOW

Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Centre

For the first time ever, Cartoon Network Live! brings all your favourite characters to life in a ‘big musical with a big story’.

Having premiered in South Africa and received astoundingly positive feedback, this interactive show has chosen Bahrain for its next appearance before heading off across the Middle East.

Characters from popular Cartoon Network shows including Adventure Time, Ben 10 and Power Puff Girls entertain little fans and serve as a throwback for those who have grown up watching Cartoon Network. The show brings together an international, award-winning creative team to ensure quality family entertainment guaranteed to wow audiences young and old.

11am, 3.30pm and 7pm Tickets: https://manama.platinumlist.net/eventtickets/70739/cartoon-network-live

FINANCIAL TRAINING AUGUST 31, SEPT 1, 7 AND 8

ADVANCED FINANCIAL MODELLING BOOTCAMP

Swiss International Palace Hotel

Designed for working professionals, this course is fast-paced, covering all the topics of financial modelling with practical examples and case studies. With focuses on theoretical aspects and working on a real-time project designed to show what they’ve learned from the class, the course allows learners to gain confidence.

The FMCG case-study, Monte-Carlo Simulation and Advanced Excel functions including Macros, are all part of the training.

The training, which is offered by industry experts has only 10 seats per batch, so enthusiasts are encouraged to register early.

Call +1 518 635 8456 or WhatsApp +1 929 314 8341.

THROUGH FILIPINO EYES SEPTEMBER 6-12

BAHRAIN THROUGH OUR EYES

Empowering you to design a personal vision of the future and teaching strategies to make those visions reality, this inspiring workshop examines and defines your personal beliefs, definition of success and helps you attain your vision and mission.

Harbour Gate, Bahrain Financial Harbour

Call 17 330-823.

When? September 6-12

Event? Exhibition, Bahrain

Through Our Eyes Venue? Harbour Gate, Bahrain Financial Harbour Call 33 282-088 / 36 520-098

22 August 2018

The brainchild of Filipino Creatives Bahrain, an exhibition portraying a myriad of colours combined to produce aweinspiring artwork will be held for public viewing. All Filipino participating artists aim to show facets of Bahrain, the way they see the island.

Some of the local artists displaying their work are Joseph Gelangco, Butch Paje, Alberto Magsuci, Carlo Rico, Ghervann Michael Yntig, Joelito Tanilong, Maria Carmella Solido and Sarah Macarambon.

Open daily to all, the exhibition welcomes you to admire and enjoy the artistic displays.

9am-9pm.

Call 33 282-088 / 36 520-098. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Handover Gala Dinner

Current and incoming presidents of the Rotary clubs

The Rotary Clubs of Bahrain hosted their presidents’ handover gala dinner for the Rotary Year 20182019.

Yusuf Fakhro & Shaikh Abdulla Al Khalifa

Seated: Khalid, Renuka, Sunita & Rekha Top: Deepa, Thajba, Bob & Vinu

Rula & Renuka

Andrew, Sebahat & Handan

Amal & Osama

Handan & Seema

Fouad Kanoo, HE Hideki Ito, Salahuddin & Yousif Salahuddin

Conferment Ceremony

HE Hideki Ito, Japanese Ambassador, held a conferment ceremony for the late Mabarak Jassem Kanoo at his residence.

Mona Kanoo & HE Hideki Ito

HE Hideki Ito & Nancy

24 August 2018

Nasser Al Arayedh

Anoop

Abdul Latif Kanoo

Nabeel Ajoor, Fouzi, HE Hideki Ito, Mona Kanoo & Talal Kanoo

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

this month

Passion Forward, p28

Vice Admiral Scott Stearney (centre)

ENSURING SECURITY Talking Cars, p30

View more info online

In his first interview, Vice Admiral Scott Stearney, newly arrived commander US Naval Forces Central Command, US 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces told BTM about his plans and the challenges of the role.

stability and security of the region’s maritime commons. The breadth of experience across our regional partners and Combined Maritime Forces is invaluable given the number and scope of important missions we carry out daily.

Please give a little background on the 5th Fleet. How long it has been active out of Bahrain, the number ships and personnel and the area covered.

The Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States Navy share a partnership that has endured for 70 years. On January 20, 1948, the Navy established Task Force (TF) 126, which was subsequently named the Middle East Force. In 1950, the US Navy leased office space in Juffair, setting our physical presence in Bahrain. The Navy has had a continuous presence in the region ever since.

On any given day, we have numerous forces operating in the region. There are 10 forward-deployed coastal patrol ships and six US Coast Guard cutters conducting maritime security operations, as well as four mine sweepers ensuring freedom of navigation. Then we have ships, submarines and aircraft that deploy to the region. Naval forces, by their very composition, are naturally agile forces that can be deployed anywhere.

Bahrain is a gracious host nation to our headquarters in this critically important region. We receive tremendous support for the 7,100 personnel and their families who live here as well as for the infrastructure needed to operate here.

Can you outline a typical day in your role?

No one day is the same here given the amount of operations and naval exercises that occur. Travel throughout the region and meeting my Navy counterparts has been an early priority while at headquarters. In Bahrain, my time is spent with US and Coalition task force commanders conducting planning and monitoring naval operations across the theatre.

Recently, we conducted Mine Countermeasures Exercise 18-2 with US and UK naval forces. I was fortunate enough to fly out to the HMS Fort Rosalie to see their work first hand. The laying of mines poses a threat to the free flow of commerce and freedom of navigation, so this integrated training heightens readiness so our combined forces can confront any mine threat. The dedication of our sailors who perform this mission is impressive and important to the region.

In June, I was also able to take General Votel, commander of US Central Command, to the USS Iwo Jima. We observed how the US sailors and marines work together, carrying out the maritime mission on the tactical level.

As the new man in post, what will be your first actions?

Whenever I get a new assignment, I like to take the time and get to learn from the people I get to work with. US Naval Forces Central Command is comprised of high-performing teams of US and multinational agile forces from the US 5th Fleet and the Combined Maritime Forces, serving together to maintain the 26 August 2018

What do you see as the challenges coming into the role and how will you address these?

The US Navy and our operations are changing – and for the better. We are disrupting the ‘business as usual’ deployments to introduce unpredictability to our adversary decision makers. Part of this means that our ships, submarines and aircraft may not follow the routine patterns that they have followed before. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview Perhaps this means ships operate independently of their strike group composition, or are differing their length of deployments, or are even postured to support multiple areas of operations during a deployment. The bottom line is: we cannot follow the same patterns that give our adversaries an advantage.

With this opportunity to be operationally unpredictable to our adversaries comes the challenge to change the status quo. I am excited to have the opportunity to execute the concept and work with my team to address these new priorities. I am also looking forward to continuing to work with our partners in the region as a strategic, unified force. Cooperative security ensures cooperative prosperity, and that could not be truer in this critical region.

Your background seems to be very much as a man of action, with multiple tours of active duty and awards. How do you think this will help you in your new task?

Coming from my previous tour of serving as the director of operations at US Central Command, I have a deep appreciation for the complexity of conflicts ashore across the theatre and the importance of the maritime environment for creating stability and prosperity across the region. Our naval forces here have a long history of taking action to ensure the safety of the maritime commons, and I feel fortunate to see this team in daily operations. I continue to be impressed on a daily basis by the things our forces are doing.

Do you have family here with you and, if so, how are they finding it?

My wife, Shelly, is here with me during this tour.

People have been incredibly friendly, and never have we felt such a warm welcome. Bahrain

In Bahrain, my time is spent with US and Coalition task force commanders conducting planning and monitoring naval operations across the theatre.� has such a rich history and culture, and I am looking forward to travelling around the region.

Our grown children do not live with us, but are looking for time available in their schedule to visit. Shelly and I are already making a list of places we want to take them when they visit.

How are you finding being away from the States?

Living overseas is a wonderful adventure, and opens your eyes to new ways of living. While I have lived overseas before when I was the chief of staff for Task Force 435 in Kabul, Afghanistan, it is quite another experience to be accompanied by my wife.

Technology is amazing, and I find that I am able to easily connect with those family and friends that aren’t here in Bahrain. Even when promoted to vice admiral when I first arrived in Bahrain, I was able to have my father on video chat from the United States during the promotion ceremony. Things have come a long way since my first Navy deployment, which has made adjusting to being away from loved ones a touch easier.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

The job of a flag officer tends to leave little time for leisure activities. I love my job and I derive a great deal of satisfaction from my work, but when I have free time, nothing is more important to me than spending time with my wife, and our children when they get the chance to visit.

We have previously written about the ongoing humanitarian role the force also plays. Is this still the case and could you give some detail of how this is currently progressing? Is it something you will be actively promoting?

The Navy and Marine Corps are the perfect forces for humanitarian and disaster relief since our platforms are extremely manoeuvrable. In 2006 when the US Government needed to evacuate US citizens

www.bahrainthismonth.com

from Lebanon, the US Navy and Marine Corps were the natural choice for the mission.

Looking to the present time, our forces practise humanitarian operations often, particularly every time a new amphibious ready group enters the region.

The humanitarian mission continues to be a vital operation for our naval forces, and the region can rest assured that we are prepared to render assistance when needed.

What are your plans and hopes for your term in Bahrain both personally and militarily?

Cooperative security provides peace through strength. While I am here, I want US Naval forces Central Command, US 5th Fleet and the Combined Maritime Forces to develop, direct and enable naval operations with partners and allies across the spectrum of maritime missions in this critical region to enhance maritime stability.

I see us accomplishing this goal through three main lines of effort: partnerships, posture and prevail. With partners, we will build maritime strength in order to deter and defeat enemy aggression, defend homelands and secure maritime interests. By optimising our theatre posture at sea, we will be prepared and ready to respond to crises, control the seas, project power, and transition to major combat operations if decided. Lastly, we will prevail in daily competition in order to deter our adversaries.

Personally, I look forward to getting to learn more about the wonderful Bahraini culture.

Already, Shelly and I have felt so welcomed and feel so fortunate to get to live here.

August 2018 27

interview

Coral Bay’s new business development manager sits down to chat with Suzanne Nicholas about his journey in the industry and future goals.

Fabio Rucco

PASSION FORWARD

F

abio Rucco was merely 20 when he decided to leave his home in Milan in search of his first challenge. With a strong passion-fuelled sense of direction, he headed to London. His first job as a barista at the National Gallery helped him with the English language. He claims: “Without English or knowledge of computers, there is no future.”

A passionate freestyle, hip-hop and R&B dancer, he danced at the renowned Pineapple Studio in Covent Garden, London. People he met there suggested he head for the Canary Islands where, while working as a dancer and singer, he started helping to promote clubs. “I was a leader when I was young,” he explains.

“I liked to decide, organise and communicate with people.”

Driven by the prospect of challenges and risks, Fabio soon experienced a kind of claustrophobia feeling boxed into routine.

Looking to change things up, he made connections, learned the Spanish tongue and took his talent and energy to Ibiza, often referred to as the dance music capital of the world. Team leader of two entertainment companies, he excelled on the island for three seasons.

Eventually, Fabio travelled to Cuba, Miami and Mexico. With many connections formed, clubs promoted and events managed, he explains: “Soon, my name travelled to Thailand and I started work as a manager at Phuket’s biggest and best club, Illuzion, bringing in my experience from Ibiza.

“I had a clear vision of what people liked,” 28 August 2018

I came to the island with the promise of growth, a new culture and a new challenge.”

he explains as a way of being able to cater to everyone’s tastes.

After two more seasons back in Ibiza, Fabio was drawn away from some of the party hotspots of the world and headed to Bahrain. “I came to the island with the promise of growth, a new culture and a new challenge. At first, it was very hard for me to work in a country that is very old-school, compared to Ibiza, Miami, Mexico, London and Milan where day by day tourists are coming ready to have fun,” he says, describing a stark contrast to the fast-paced life he was used to.

After eight months, he met Coral Bay boss

Madan Perattur who he claims, “has the same clear vision as I do, and he’s always active. We’d both like to do something very different.” He believes that, at the moment, Coral Bay, is similar to Ibiza with its European stylistic individuality, tourists and the way it caters to them.

Additionally, as business development manager, he assures us he’s got many projects planned. He says: “I believe we can make Coral Bay number one in Bahrain. I’ve got connections through whom I plan to bring in famous artists, to encourage more people into the venue to enjoy concerts and shows.” When asked how he likes his new post, his enthusiasm shows as he replies: “I can work even 20 hours because I love my job and it is my passion.”

Fabio says: “I’m only 35 but it’s like I’ve lived the life of 10 people.” His recipe for success?

“Believe in what you do, love your job and work for the experience and the future. If you work for the day, there’s a big risk of failure.”

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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interview

BTM caught up with recently appointed GM of Al Haddad Motors, Warren Hudson, to talk about his successful career and future plans for the company.

Warren Hudson

APPLE SHARMA

TALKING CARS

W

arren’s passion for cars and motor racing began at an early age. Somewhat of a petrolhead in his younger days, he could tell what car was coming down the road a hundred metres away. This natural interest steered him towards a career in the motoring world. “I took the opportunity to get into automotive vehicle racing as a mechanic, then joined the retail motor industry and grew from there,” he says.

His first senior role was in service management, then after-sales and dealer development management, through to sales and finally to general manager and other leading roles throughout the Middle East.

No stranger to the region, Warren first moved from Britain to Bahrain in 1998, to grow what is now one of the big automotive giants on the island. “I was here from ’98 until 2005 and then went to the UAE,” he says. “But I’ve worked in Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and have come back here now, so it’s almost two decades.” Having gained experience throughout the region, the island came calling again, and an opportunity to work for the ‘The world’s Leading Premium Car Manufacturer’ Mercedes-Benz was too good to refuse. He joined Al Haddad Motors this January.

The company is a group distributor (not just a vehicle importer) for Daimler – MercedesBenz, encompassing both passenger cars and commercial vehicles. His role as GM entails a complete strategic focus across all revenue streams. “Another focus is targeted quantitative measures that will realise the true potential of the market, along with developing the team and giving them enough autonomy to be able to achieve their goals and true market 30 August 2018

I think initially we are going to see a large upturn in corporate/company orientated sales business.” potential,” he says. “Also, focusing on all the commercial and financial implications that come with a business of this nature.”

With VAT expected to be introduced in the Kingdom, possibly in quarter four 2018, Warren believes it’s going to take time for the automotive market to settle down. “I think initially we are going to see a large upturn in corporate/company orientated sales business, but once things start to stabilise, possibly nine to 12 months, then hopefully individual/private customers’ confidence will grow as true retail pricing is re-established in line with VAT implications, and hence private purchases will probably come back to the market,” he explains.

Whilst understanding the Bahrain economy does realise some transient business from Saudi Arabia, Warren’s main job is to build a true market potential in Bahrain. He adds: “We’re more focused on developing the different vehicle segments that we’ve got available within the Mercedes-Benz product portfolio, I think for a premium vehicle manufacturer, it’s probably the best portfolio in the world at the moment. And, we’re the only premium manufacturer with a full range of commercial vehicles as well.”

As the region tests the water with electric

cars and Mercedes-Benz prepares to reveal an all-electric SUV (the EQ range) next year, Warren’s thoughts echo the notion that electric is the future for the industry and the environment, saying: “I envisage that in the region we will start to see electric vehicles from Mercedes-Benz’s product portfolio rolling out possibly in the fourth quarter of 2019. We hope to ensure Bahrain is at the forefront of this.”

Future plans for the company will see both internal and external enhancements of its existing facilities – after-sales in Salmabad and the vehicle showroom in Tubli. It will also see many new models this year – the new G-Wagon, CLS and the AMG GT four-door.

Plus, the reveal for the Facelift C Class.

Warren is an ardent believer that after-sales is what builds the foundations and puts great emphasis on investment as far as staff and equipment are concerned. He manages a team of 152 staff and believes in rewarding good performance.

“We want Al Haddad Motors to be seen as one of the Mercedes-Benz group dealers that’s at the forefront of new ideas, staff training and rewards,” he adds. “I see my role as developing those areas and finding a team that will grow from within, ensuring continuity and strong leadership, with local Bahrainis promoted into management positions as well as acknowledging diversity management.”

Warren has come a long way from driving his first hand-me-down car, a Hillman Imp, to his current 580bhp drive, an AMG GLE 63 Coupé. And in his spare time, he swaps his four wheels for two, taking part in triathlons, connecting with his inner sportsman. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sports Lounge Opening

To view more images, scan the QR code

Gulf Suites Hotel – Amwaj held the official grand opening party of Guinness Smokehouse & Lounge at its premises.

Sattar & Antony

The cake-cutting ceremony

Lovely, Sweetie & Princess

Max & Ahmad

Moutaz, Gen, Amar & Mo

Sajit, Chandra, Shanfi, Juneill & Karunakar

Ismail & Imran

Mo & Prakash

Management, staff and guests

Apple, Ekatarina & Mo

32 August 2018

Sattar & Imran

Amal, Tokzhan & Loubna

Emily, Justeen & Hannah

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

University Open Evening The British University of Bahrain held an open evening at Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Julie, Ebru, Keith Sharp & Obaidu

Noor & Nausheen

Khurram & Ahmed

Hashim & Ali

Maryam & Eman

Bob, Ron & Marlyn

Al & Julie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Aima & Nida

August 2018 33

bystander

Eid Brunch

Retnani, wife of the Indonesian Ambassador, hosted an Eid Al-Fitr brunch at their residence.

Ruqia, Retnani, Caroline & Jina

Suba

Irina

Asha

HE Nor Huda

Rose & Nadia

Fatima, Mandy & Retnani

Nabila

Retnani, Edry & Wani

Dean, Wita, Judy, Retnani, Anne & Evy

LET US

CROWD SOURCE

YOUR EVENT Scan here to upload your event and get listed!

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34 August 2018

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indiaindependence

A Special Supplement Commemorating India's 72nd Independence Day

36 New Face of Friendship HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Indian Ambassador, talks increasing trade and shows off the new embassy.

38 An Illustrious Legacy Baboo Kewalram remembers the founding of his family’s successful trading dynasty.

40 Great Going President Group’s Abdul Sattar outlines future plans.

42 Driving Ambition Kishore Kumar pays tribute to his son’s runaway success on the karting track.

43 & 45 Culinary Collection Celebrating Independence Day and serving up a taste of Indian cuisine.

50 Getting Together An updated roundup of Indian clubs and societies.

52 Indian Bites News from the island’s Indian community.

54 Unwind in Luxury Introducing the subcontinent’s iconic train journeys.

Commercial Index Bahrain Cinema Company (Cineco)......................... 39 Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj........................................... 41 Lulu Hypermarket........................................................ 49 Lulu International Exchange..................................... 39 Middle East Hospital.................................................. 47 Show Shha.................................................................... 45 Titan............................................................................... 37

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 35

indiaindependence

Indian Ambassador, His Excellency Alok Kumar Sinha, told Liz O’Reilly how his country’s newly inaugurated embassy in Bahrain is a visible symbol of the longstanding bilateral ties between the two nations.

HE Alok Kumar Sinha

THE NEW FACE OF FRIENDSHIP

T

he expansive new building provides around 3,000sq/m of office space on an 8,000sq/m plot in Seef. Four years in construction at a cost of around BD3 million, it was officially inaugurated by India’s External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj, during her recent visit to the Kingdom.

The entry is through traditionally carved 9m-high doors from Rajasthan – “The doors were originally made that high and wide so a cavalcade could come through them,” says the Ambassador. The first thing to see is a stunning mural featuring symbols of both India and Bahrain, from Dilmun seals to foodstuff and animals to scenery and even a pot made in India by the mural artist using soil from A’ali village, the centre of Bahrain’s traditional potteries.

“The concept and theme of the mural is trade, the foundation of the age-old relationship between our two countries, which stretches back through centuries of history and friendship,” says His Excellency.

Apart from its aesthetic charm, the embassy offers various new facilities including an extended consular and visa section, business facilities such as meeting rooms and presentation areas for trade delegations, a full cultural centre with a 300-seat auditorium and space for conducting yoga sessions as well as an extensive library offering books on India from economy to history, philosophy, daily life and more.

The Ambassador proudly asserts that: “There are more than 350,000 Indian expats in 36 August 2018

I’d like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for the support from the wise and dynamic leadership of the Kingdom.”

Bahrain, the largest expat community, so it is only right that we should have an efficient and well-equipped embassy to serve them and continue to expand on our relationship in diverse spheres with the Kingdom.”

The closeness of this relationship was demonstrated during HE Sushma Swaraj’s recent visit to the island to co-chair the second Bahrain-India High Joint Commission meeting during which bilateral ties were reviewed and steps were taken to increase collaboration in the fields of renewable energy and health. The visit provided an opportunity for meetings with the leadership, HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Prime Minister, HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, and HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister.

“The Joint Commission is an effective mechanism to discuss bilateral relations and review ongoing Memoranda of Understanding, but also to explore new areas for increased

cooperation between the two countries” says His Excellency.

“Bilateral trade is expanding rapidly. It grew by 33 per cent in the non-oil sector in 2017. The total bilateral trade has already surpassed USD1billion. One has to see the growing economic ties in terms of the developments taking place in the two countries. India’s economy has been doing well. There are several initiatives such as Make in India [which encourages manufacturers to invest in the country] and Start-up India which have created opportunities; plus add to that the growth of India’s middle class. On the Bahrain side, there’s investment in infrastructure with lots of opportunities for investment and expertise, particularly in the non-hydrocarbon sector which has seen tremendous growth. The synergies and complementarities have been reflected in increased bilateral trade and cross-investment.”

And paying tribute to Bahrain, he adds: “I’d like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for the support from the wise and dynamic leadership of the Kingdom, which gives great strength to take the relationship forward.”

With that in mind, for the coming Indian Independence Day celebrations, on August 15, the new embassy will play host to a number of events and His Excellency is already planning how he can make use of the great cultural space with exhibitions and events to mark the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth, beginning October 2, 2018. www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence

The patriarch of Bahrain’s Kewalram clan, Baboo Kewalram, talks to Behnaz Sanjana about his family’s history and achievements over more than a century.

Three generations of the Kewalram family at the helm of the business, from left, Anoop, Kishore, Vinod, Hishang, Aditya and Raj with Baboo Kewalram

AN ILLUSTRIOUS LEGACY

I

Baboo Kewalram

Young Baboo (second from left) and Sunder Kewalram (third from left) managing their first department store in Bab-Al-Bahrain

38 August 2018

t was 1888 when Damordardas Kewalram stepped onto Bahrain’s shores to dabble in pearling. “He was later joined by his son, and my father, Haridas,” says Baboo Kewalram, chairman of Kewalram & Sons Co WLL. “They would finance divers to source pearls for trading in those days.”

Circumstance led Damodardas to return to Thatta, a city near Karachi, in the then undivided India.

With the reins in his hands, Haridas ventured into foodstuffs and thereafter into textiles, establishing Kewalram & Sons, the first of many outlets, that still stands in Manama’s souq.

A freshly graduated twenty-year-old, Baboo boarded a ship to Bahrain in 1955. He says: “By this time, our family had left Thatta and moved to Bombay [now Mumbai]. My brother, Sunder, had already joined our father here. The journey had five stopovers over 10 days.” He recalls that the area that is now Bab Al Bahrain was a jetty in the sea, where small boats would dock. Large vessels would anchor away from the shore, and dhows would bring passengers to land.

“My job was at the textile retail shop. Early in the morning, I would go to clear our goods from customs. That way I learnt what we were importing, and at what prices, so I knew our

stock well. By 9am, I would be at the shop, meeting customers. I used to know everybody around me then as the souq was a much smaller market than now. Over the weekends, customers from Saudi Aramco were our regular clientele.”

He reminisces: “When we came here, there were no schools, and houses had very limited electricity.

No refrigeration or airconditioning, of course. In the summers, we would splash water on the terrace at night, to go and sleep there. Donkeys used to carry sweet water to households from a source in Salmaniya.”

The enterprise soon diversified into jewellery, home electronics and appliances, security systems and, most recently, real estate, with 10 outlets spanning the Kingdom. It associates with world-famous brands such as Titan, Casio, VIP and Carlton luggage, Commax, Brother, Black & Decker and all the top textile names in Japan and India.

The Kewalrams are also managing partners of Bahrain’s Quality Education School and have textile operations even in the UAE. While tending to a flourishing business, the family has significantly contributed to the community, both local and expatriate. “My father was involved in founding the Bahrain

When we came here, there were no schools, and houses had very limited electricity.”

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The store in Bab Al Bahrain that still stands today - Sunder with uncle Kumbandas Kewalram

temple in Manama.

Speaking of their relations with Bahrain’s Royal Family, Baboo says: “If Sunder and I would be absent from the Amir of Bahrain, Shaikh Isa’s majlis every Sunday, he’d ask about us. In 1975, when my father was ill, Shaikh Mohammed, the Amir’s younger brother, happened to be visiting someone in the same hospital in India. He would come to see my father every day, and, when he [the father]

passed on, he came all the way to our family home to give us his condolences. Which royal does that? When we lost Sunder to a plane crash in 1988, Shaikh Isa called us in Bombay to express his condolences. My nephew, Kishore, and I were asked to see him on our return. He told Kishore to consider him a father figure, and to reach out to him whenever in need. We were most touched by his gesture. Bahrain and its people have made us immensely happy.”

We cherish our close ties with the benevolent rulers of the country. The Crown Prince of Bahrain ensures he visits our home on the festive occasion of Diwali. The Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa has popped into the office when in the vicinity only to see my uncle. That is the beauty of the nation’s leaders. Nowhere else will we find such acceptance as we do here.

Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI),” remembers the octogenarian.

Following in the late Haridas’s footsteps, Baboo has held a top post in the Asian wing of the BCCI. He was instrumental in founding the Indian Community Relief Fund, a body formed under the aegis of Bahrain’s Indian Embassy for the benefit of blue-collared Indians, and has been its vice chairman. For 35 years he has held the post of chairman of the committee in charge of the 200-year-old Shri Krishna Hindu

www.bahrainthismonth.com

- Kishore Kewalram (nephew) managing director The foundation laid by the pioneering generation gives us the platform to innovate, expand and grow the business to an enterprise we could never have imagined 40 years ago. We aspire to be one of the best organisations in Bahrain, providing premium products, services and value to people here, with the aim of representing Bahrain globally. We have a very strong emotional connection to this land and we believe our strength comes from investing in people and the bonds that we have developed. The lasting goodwill that we have earned is what we value the most.

- Raj Kewalram (grandson), director

August 2018 39

indiaindependence

CEO and managing director of the President Group, Abdul Sattar, chats with Behnaz Sanjana about the direction his business is taking.

Abdul Sattar

GREAT GOING

T

he President Group is a renowned name within the island’s accommodation sector. The company partnered in acquiring its first commercial property, President Heights in Juffair in early 2011. It was a difficult time for Bahrain then, but Sattar, a tenacious and focused expatriate entrepreneur, held on. With the hope for smoother times to return, his firm’s portfolio grew from that single property in residential Hoora, to several well-known hotels and apartment residences. Today, the group manages six family-oriented furnished apartment properties in Juffair as well as one three-star and two four-star hotels on the island.

“The company was mainly into high-end furnished apartments,” says Sattar, who hails from Mangalore, India. “It was only three years ago that we ventured into the hospitality industry. Manama Tower in Hoora was our first, and our latest acquisition is the Gulf Suites Hotel in Amwaj.”

Sattar has been in Bahrain since 1998 and worked with a renowned hotel chain for 11 years. He says: “After gaining extensive experience, I decided to branch out on my own. My aim was to provide decent and convenient short- or long-term lodging facilities for families.”

The four-star Gulf Suites Hotel is the organisation’s flagship property, with 173 apartments in various configurations – from one-bedroom studios to four-bedroom suites.

“Amwaj is a well-developed, upscale area. It has great potential to grow further and has everything for residents and tourists alike,” says Sattar. “Being close to the airport, we are patronised by corporates from around the GCC, 40 August 2018

It was only three years ago that we ventured into the hospitality industry.”

Abdul Sattar with Antony Hurtis, GM of Gulf Suites Hotel

families from Saudi Arabia, and we are also one of the preferred accommodations for airline crew. European business travellers who require conveniently located, long-term lodging also favour us.”

The hotel has a fair range of dining options, and has recently added an Irish Pub, Guinness Sports Lounge, to the list. “It’s been only a few weeks since we opened our doors to the public, but we’ve seen tremendous success.

Our massive screens are a major attraction for sports enthusiasts, who enjoy the games with a sound system that gives a live, stadium effect.

We also have gaming stations, which are a great hit with the multinational populace of Amwaj,” Sattar says.

A unique concept, Rainforest Lounge, is set to open shortly at the hotel. The management has gone all-out to ensure the ambience gives a forest feel. Sattar elaborates: “The décor will sport trees, jungle vegetation and even makebelieve animals. There will be a family section and a separate party section, as well as a live band. The international cuisine will focus on meaty delicacies that will echo the theme. With innovative dishes on the menu (like Anaconda Pasta), it will amuse and delight guests.

Specialist chefs have been flown in so that guests savour the authentic tastes of their chosen dishes.”

The President Group is bullish on yet another four-star in Amwaj, as well as assets in Juffair and Seef. The big plan is to consistently expand its hospitality portfolio to be the top name in Bahrain. “Although we have been offered the franchise of well-known brands, we have consciously decided to have our own homegrown signature style,” explains Sattar. “The group has refrained from having many partners, so as to ensure that we can give the best service to guests, without any compromise. It’s easy being the same as all the others; but we want to provide the wow factor. For instance, Gulf Suites Hotel prides itself for being a four-star establishment that provides many five-star amenities and operating standards.”

Sattar is grateful to Bahrain for being the easiest place in the region to do business. “All the ministries and authorities I have ever dealt with are so supportive, so I have never felt like an outsider. I have always been treated equally, and having spent half my life here, it feels like home,” he says. www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence

Proud dad Kishore Kumar tells Liz O’Reilly of his pride in son Shanthosh’s major achievement.

A family affair

DRIVING AMBITION

S

hantosh Kumar is just nine years old (almost 10) but already he has won the Kingdom’s National Karting Championship – Rotax Micromax and will be heading to Brazil in November to compete for the world title.

Kishore, who hails from Chennai, India, explains: “Both my wife, Priya, and myself are motorsport fanatics, we put our son in a kart one fine day a couple of years ago and he has never looked back! He has been driving since he was seven years old and we are at Bahrain International Karting Circuit at least twice a week for several hours of practice and competition.”

Shanthosh has a whole shelf full of trophies and even managed to win the Micromax championship with one race in hand, so his dad got permission for him to join in the final race of the season at the next level up – the Minimax. He won!

And, though the many hours of practice sounds hard for one so young, Kishore adds: “I’m just pleased he hasn’t got tired of it. In fact, he is very enthusiastic about his training every weekend. It requires a whole lot of dedication – he’s tied up almost every Friday and Thursday evenings, so there is little time for anything else.”

Asked whether he drives himself, Kishore smiles and replies: “These days I would not fit in the kart and, to be honest, it’s something you have to start young. My son’s responses are much faster than mine. For this sport, you have to drill yourself from childhood; this is the age when you can hardwire the brain.”

42 August 2018

For this sport, you have to drill yourself from childhood.”

Shanthosh with coach

Instead, Kishore, an engineer, takes on much of the mechanic’s role but adds that Shanthosh perfectly understands his engine and kart settings and senses the vehicle’s performance to give efficient feedback after every session of track time. And mum, Priya, is also an important part of the team, analysing the performance figures from each race and track session to help the young driver improve.

Shanthosh is currently trained by coach Yahya Ali, who mentors him to excellence.

That team effort is paying off, with an official invitation received just a few weeks ago

for Shanthosh to represent Bahrain at the Rotax World grand finals in the minimax category, which takes place in Brazil from November 25 to December 2.

Having already clocked speeds of 109kph, in reality, he is now working on a simulator to get to know the track in Brazil for the world finals.

Kishore explains: “Salute to coach Yahya Ali for his coaching and big thanks to Mr Silvano from Brazil for his simulator assistance. Currently Shanthosh is training on the simulator, that we have at home, to familiarise himself with the track and every aspect of the circuit.” More hard work but the whole family is clearly excited about the challenge.

And, asked what the plans are for the future, Kishore again smiles and says proudly “F1”. Kumar senior is a big fan of Lewis Hamilton, while his son follows Max Verstappen. Shanthosh was a ‘grid kid’ at this year’s Gulf Air F1 Grand Prix.

For the more immediate future though, Kishore hopes his son will soon compete in Dubai’s O-Plate series, which sees local talent pitted against the best from around the world, and possibly other karting series in the middle east.

Scan the code to watch a video.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence THE K HOTEL

Indo-Pak Food Festival Pakistan and India have a very rich culture and share a passion for food, music, culture, art and architecture. Experience the taste of both countries as the K Hotel celebrates their independence days.

The Indo-Pak Food Festival will take place at The K Hotel from August 13 to 15 at KOLORS. The restaurant will be transformed with the colours of India and Pakistan and festivities will start with traditional dhol and bhangra music.

On Pakistan Independence Day, August 14, the country’s cuisine will be highlighted with its refined blend of various regional cooking traditions including delicacies such as tawa, tandoor and kadai including chapli and spicy shami kebabs, murg malai boti, tandoori aloo and, at the live counter, haleem and bhuna gosht.

To mark Indian Independence Day, on August 15, KOLORS will take guests on a journey through the subcontinent’s rich culinary heritage with dishes such as Hyderabadi biryani, almond saffron pulao, lobster masala, Goan fish curry and other delicacies.

There will be a range of traditional desserts representing both countries to finish off the feast.

Do not miss the daily raffle draw, where you have a chance to win; one of the prizes will be a stay at The K including the fabulous brunch.

“The Indo-Pak Food Festival 2018 is inspired by the very people of India and Pakistan who love to please their palates with their traditional cuisine,” says general manager Volker Mandlowsky.

The festival costs BD7.500++ per person and runs from 7pm to 11pm daily.

Call 17 360-000.

Congratulations Shanthosh Kumar

@shanthosh_kumar_11 +973 38065915 kishore.blu@gmail.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 43

bystander

HE Domenico Bellato & HE Justin Siberell Martin & Ali

Indian Embassy Inauguration

The Indian Embassy held the official inauguration ceremony of its new complex at Seef district in the presence of the External Affairs Minister of India, HE Sushma Swaraj, top officials, ambassadors and invited guests.

HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, HE Sushma Swaraj & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

George & Mamta

Hemanth, Juzer, Hameed & Clifford

Raveesh & Apoorva

Inakshi & Snigdh

Abdul Nabi & Raj Damani

Shaikh Khalid bin Khalifa & Ahlam

HE Padam Sundas, HE Thanis Na Songkhla & HE K M Mominur Rahman

44 August 2018

Pat & Fatima

Khalifa Al Rumaihi

Ranjana & Pallavi

Waheed & Hassan

Abdulla Juma & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran

Ebrahim & Abdul Nabi

Arjun, Rohan, Preeti & Gayatri

www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence SHOW SHHA

Uptown Glam Giving a new spin to regular fare from the subcontinent, Show Shha has quickly become the buzz word in Indian dining.

Show Shha is the hip new eatery in town that’s taking diners’ taste buds by storm. Nestled in the heart of Juffair, this eatery serves glamourised North-Indian street food and staples, with their classic flair intact. The newly opened restaurant exudes a funky, contemporary vibe. The interiors are a riot of colour – kitchen essentials, mandala designs and tongue-in-cheek colloquialisms adorn the walls.

The ‘chaat’ cart is the venue’s centrepiece, greeting patrons as they enter. The very idea of sweet-sour-piquant roadside delicacies from the northern regions of India whets the appetite.

The food menu is extensive, with an impressive repertoire of starters; lamb, chicken, seafood and vegetarian main courses; assorted flat breads; rice preparations and desserts. Amongst the long list are firm favourites that guests keep returning for. The

tandoori mixed grill platter is an obvious crowd-pleaser and the succulence of the chicken tikka, murg malai, lamb seekh kabab and seafood is an ideal way to start your meal.

Pataka Prawns, literally translating to firecracker prawns, is another dish that is much loved. Chicken makhani is a luscious tomato-based gravy that coats boneless morsels of the meat, with cream and butter giving it just the right amount of richness. The chicken or mutton Dum Biryani leaves diners wanting more, while the Sarson ka Saag and Missi Roti take you straight to the fields of

Punjab. There’s also enough choice for those who like mildly spiced food. A range of unique mocktails – Ginger and Lime Crush, and the quintessentially Indian Aam Panna – perfectly complement the cuisine.

Show Shha is open from noon to midnight on weekdays and up to 1am on Thursday and Friday.

Call 13 114-556 or 33 063-074.

FREEDOM OFFER August 15 15% OFF

Tel: +973 33063074 / 13114556 Block 324, Road 2426 Bldg 1565 Juffair Kingdom of Bahrain K www.showshha.com E Show Shha Restaurant C @showshhabh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 45

indiaindependence

MEM-BIW

The ribbon-cutting ceremony of MEM-BIW by Mrs Kurian, in the presence of invitees and dignitaries

MIDDLE EAST GROUP OF HOSPITALS AND MEDICAL CENTERS

Medical Care for All A new Middle East Medical Center has opened its doors at BIW (Bahrain Investment Wharf).

Marking another milestone, The Middle East Hospital Group opened its fourth medical facility at Bahrain Investment Wharf, in the Hidd Industrial Area. The Middle East Medical Center-BIW (MEM-BIW) was inaugurated at a soft opening ceremony last month by Lizhyamma Kurian, wife of Dr Varghese Kurian (chairman and managing director of VKL & Al Namal Group), in the presence of Jeeben Kurian, VKL Power executive director, engineer Abdulla Jamal Alabbasi, BIW technical affairs director, officials, dignitaries, invitees and the staff of MEH-MEM group.

MEM-BIW will provide much-needed medical care services to a large number of business establishments and industrial houses located in the BIW area, Bahrain International Investment Park (BIIP) and the Salman Industrial City, in addition to the workers residing in the labour camp in the Hidd Industrial Area. There has been no medical facility in the area and MEM-BIW is the first to provide high-quality medical services in this vicinity. The centre will offer immediate medical care, GP and specialist consultations, outpatient treatment procedures, observation care and dental services along with primary diagnostic services.

At the occasion, engineer Alabbasi spoke of the importance of quality medical services as 46 August 2018

an integral part of industrial townships. He congratulated the team of Middle East Hospital Group, Al Namal Group and VKL Holdings chairman, Dr Varghese Kurian, for his vision to provide high-quality medical services ethically following the NHRA (National Health Regulatory Authority) standards.

Middle East Group of Hospitals and Medical Centers now comprises four facilities located strategically in Manama (MEH-Segaya), Salmabad (MEM-Salmabad) and Hidd (MEMHidd) and Bahrain Investment Wharf in Hidd Industrial Area (MEM-BIW). The locations, facilities and the dedicated, highly qualified team of doctors make the Middle East Hospital Group an ideal choice for comprehensive medical care for families, nationals and expatriates, as well as employees of corporate houses and companies.

The Middle East Hospital & Medical Centers announced its plans to expand its services to all parts of Bahrain, with the next multi-speciality medical facility opening in Riffa. The facility will commence operations by the end of 2018. The group plans to open medical centres in Janabiya, A’ali and Hamad Town, with work commenced to establish these projects in 2019.

Middle East Hospital, Segaya This is a multi-speciality, 85-bed, state-of-theart hospital, with a highly qualified team of doctors and consultants in various specialities.

It’s located in Segaya, near Salmaniya Medical Complex, and has 24-hour emergency care and ambulance, pharmacy, radiology and laboratory services. In addition, it has inpatient services, operation theatres, a maternity unit, ICU, baby nursery, diagnostics and treatments in all specialities. The medical care is backed up by advanced diagnostic services (Open MRI – the only one in Bahrain, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X-ray and OPG). Call 17 362-233.

Middle East Medical Center, Hidd A multi-speciality primary care facility with outpatient services, it’s one of the largest medical centres in Bahrain, located off the Hidd highway and easily accessible. It also has a strong, dedicated and highly qualified team of doctors. Call 17 464-848.

Middle East Medical Center, Salmabad This is the group’s first facility, located on Isa Town highway, close to large and small industries and residential areas. Call 17 216-056.

Middle East Medical Center - BIW, Hidd Industrial Area This latest strategically situated medical centre is dedicated to caring for the industrial giants and workers’ community, located in Hidd Industrial Area. Call 77 464-848.

Follow on Facebook: Middle East Hospital and Instagram: @mehospitalbh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence LULU HYPERMARKET

Independence Day Shopping Deals

MENA region’s fastest growing and most popular chain, Lulu, celebrates Indian Independence Day on August 15, with great deals on Indian food, products and clothing.

48 August 2018

Lulu Hypermarket has thus far seen 11 years of success since the chain’s first introduction to the Kingdom in 2007. Now with six local branches, many shoppers choose Lulu Hypermarket due to the wide range of products offered at the best prices, one of many guarantees the chain stands for as well as its top-quality service.

Lulu values customer satisfaction, an undisputable fact that echoes “The Customer Comes First” service philosophy that the group incorporates. Chairman and managing director, Yusuffali MA, has ensured that this philosophy is at the core of his 150-branch network which includes Lulu Hypermarkets, supermarkets, department stores and malls; these stretch from Malaysia and India, through the Middle East, to the United Kingdom and US with the sheer size of the operation offering economies of scale from which customers reap the benefit.

Loyal Lulu shoppers are well-versed with the spectacular deals that are regularly available. And, in celebration of the upcoming Indian Independence Day, Lulu has the island covered with a range of great offers and promotions. Shoppers can expect a sizeable range of irresistible deals on products that hail from India – foodstuff, fruit, vegetables and meat.

In addition to grocery items, Lulu also has your back in terms of clothing offers so you can celebrate not just traditionally, but also fashionably. Promising a big Half-Payback Offer on salwar kameez and sarees, Lulu wants you to look your best as you engage in the special day celebrations A company spokesman says: “We have a team dedicated to our fashion department, who ensure that our garments division is on-trend with the latest

fashion and top-quality textiles.” He further added that due to the popularity of Bollywood films and high-fashion trends, Indian fashion is enjoying being under the spotlight, and therefore Lulu is joining in the excitement by showcasing seasonal Indian styles.

Lulu also recognises that no Indian celebration is complete without the famous Indian mithai, sweets which are appreciated and spoken about not only by Indian nationals, but worldwide. Adding to the festive atmosphere will be the display and sale of scrumptious traditional sweets – Kaju Katli, pista roll, Jalebi and Motichoor Laddo, to name a few. If you haven’t yet relished Lulu’s Namkeen or savoury snacks, make sure you try them out – you won’t be disappointed.

Director, Juzer Rupawala, says: “As the Indian community in Bahrain gets set to celebrate the 72nd anniversary of Indian independence, Lulu Hypermarket will lead the way with celebrations in all stores.” So that all can appreciate India’s growth and abundant assortment of goods, he also promises maximised promotions. www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence Indian Ladies Association

Young Goans

Getting Together Though numerous members of Bahrain’s large Indian expatriate community have lived in the Kingdom for many years and look upon it as their second home, they still manage to preserve their traditions and heritage through their cultural, culinary, charitable and commercial activities. The island is served by a plethora of clubs and societies that unite the diverse diaspora giving long-time residents and new arrivals the chance to get together and join in community activities that impart a taste of home.

Sports and Social Clubs Bhatia Mitra Mandal Founded in 1959, this club is dedicated to bringing together the Sindhi community of Bhatias. The 142-member club, started by the Thattai Bhatia community, revolves around family picnics, cultural programmes and community games. Its major annual events are the camping trip to Sakhir and the club’s annual day.

Call 39 461-794.

Indian Ladies Association (ILA) This organisation began as a sewing club in 1956, but over the years the ILA has consolidated its representation of Indian roots and charitable endeavours. As well as being known for their annual Dandiya gala, fundraisers and community service, members also run the Project Sneha, a centre for children with special needs.

Call 39 464-734.

Kerala Social & Cultural Association (KSCA) Founded in 1982 by the Nair community, KSCA was established to help the working-class Indians and Keralites in the Kingdom. Engaging mainly in charitable, social and cultural activities, the members get together to celebrate festivals such as Vishu, Onam, Vijay Dashmi and Diwali.

Call 17 251-941.

50 August 2018

Maharashtra Cultural Society (MCS) Established in 1991, MCS offers the island’s Maharashtrians a sense of home and community. It houses a health centre, an auditorium, a kids’ play area, a library and a gaming room. The club’s major annual events include Salaam Bahrain, Ganesha Festival, Maharashtra Day, a blood donation drive and a free health camp.

Call 17 272-050.

Shri Gujarati Samaj (SGS) One of the largest business communities in India, Gujaratis gather under the canopy of SGS in Bahrain.

Established in the early 1980s, the club has nearly 700 dedicated members. Apart from its charitable works, it is famous for its Kite Festival.

Call 33 011-158.

Tamil Social and Cultural Association-Bahrain (TSCA) Serving as a home away from home for the Tamil community in Bahrain, TSCA was founded in 1983.

While working to nurture the Tamil culture in this foreign land, it also organises fundraising activities and offers yoga classes, sports activities, and a Gavel Club for members’ children.

Call 17 179-723. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam Registered in 1947, the Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam is the single largest unifying body on the island for those belonging to ‘God’s own country’. Members enjoy facilities including a library, multipurpose hall, badminton and table tennis courts and indoor games. Offering a plethora of events, some of the more popular ones are the monthly mega Ssows, Onam celebration and Keralotsavam and Balakalotsavam.

Call 17 251-878.

The Indian Club Established more than a century ago, in 1915, The Indian Club is the oldest and largest expatriate club in Bahrain.

Situated in the heart of Manama, the club boasts an impressive strength of over 1,500 members. Along with hosting the major national and regional celebrations, including Bahrain’s National Day, it is most known for its annual May Queen beauty pageant, Badminton Open Tournament, cricket and tennis matches and summer camp for kids.

Call 17 253-157.

Young Goans’ Sports Club Set up in 1953 by a group of enthusiastic footballers, the community is drawn together through cultural programmes, sports and their love for music. They organise musical shows, sport and youth activities, and annual events such as the Bandra Fair, feast of St Francis Xavier, a carnival and the annual Goan football league.

Call 17 710-602.

Culture and Arts Telugu Kala Samithi (TKS) Registered in 1998, TKS lends a helping hand to many humanitarian efforts in the Kingdom. With the focus on cultural growth, annual highlights include Ugadi celebrations, a Bahrain open chess tournament, a state formation day function and an annual mega show featuring renowned South Indian musicians and artists.

Call 33 589-955.

The Sree Narayana Cultural Society Started as a social reform movement in Kerala, the ideology of this society translates into members’ social welfare work in the Kingdom. Since its establishment in 1989, it has hosted various fundraisers. Its other activities include monthly competitions, an annual sports day and Malayalam literature lessons for children.

Call 17 255-517.

Bahrain India Society

Indian Toastmasters

include leadership workshops, meditation workshops, quizzes and relevant seminars.

Call 39 276-481.

Bahrain India Society From its inception in 2008, this society has aimed to strengthen ties between Bahrain and India, not merely business-wise but also culturally, politically and, additionally, in terms of both social affairs and sciences.

Members organise meetings and conferences in both countries, promote exhibitions and festivals, and generally work for cooperation between the two countries.

Call 38 311-166.

Confederation of Indian Industry A non-government, not-for-profit, industry-led and industry-managed organisation, the CII has over 7,800 members from both private and public sectors, including SMEs and MNCs. Having opened its first Middle Eastern office in Bahrain, it helps Indian businesses connect and interact with global businesses.

Call 17 589-688.

Business and Other Associations Bahrain Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (BCICAI) Established in 1998, BCICAI welcomes chartered accountants from India and is the largest body of professionals in the Kingdom. Some of their past events www.bahrainthismonth.com

Indian Medical Association: Bahrain Chapter This prestigious body is open to the Indian medical practitioners on the island. The club organises periodic symposiums and seminars and Community Relief Fund medical camps.

Call 39 430-708.

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indiaindependence

Carnival Cinemas to Buy Novo Cinemas

A Wise Conjunction GFH, Bahrain, and India-based Wadhwa Group have introduced Wadhwa Wise City (‘Wise City’), the first Integrated Township Project in Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA), at Panvel, India.

A joint development between Wadhwa Group and the Indian subsidiary of GFH, Valuable Properties Pvt Ltd, it is intended that the first phase of the project will consist of up to 5,500 affordable homes, of which 900 were pre-sold prior to the launch. Invested parties expect this project to make Panvel the go-to region for affordable homes. Offering studios, and both one- and two-bedroom apartments, Wise City will be developed in different phases.

Humanitarian Effort in India and Pakistan The Bahrain Red Crescent Society (BRCS) is heading a plan to fund welfare projects in India and Pakistan.

From a standpoint of giving back to the two countries for contributing to Bahrain’s economy, the plan is to fund projects that aim to deliver clean water and sanitation to villages that need it.

The BRCS, which has undertaken multiple humanitarian aid works in the past, in a host of different countries, was ranked among the 50 national societies around the world in 2017.

Details of the latest project were brought to light during the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement Conference on Labour Migration, in Bangkok, in July, where there were talks with the relevant Indian and Pakistani representatives to explore clean water and sanitation projects.

52 August 2018

Following reports on April 18 that Qatar’s Elan Group has been working to sell Novo Cinemas’ UAE and Bahrain theatres, India’s Carnival Cinemas and a partner in the UAE are amidst talks to buy the theatres, aiming to segregate cross border business in the Gulf regions.

Carnival Cinemas operates in more than 100 Indian cities. With the popularity of Bollywood films in the UAE and the Gulf, it has shown interest in being potential co-investors.

Formerly known as Grand Cinemas, Novo Cinemas was first established

under Gulf Film Group, which was incorporated with Elan Group in 2012.

There are now over 114 screens in multiple cinemas across the GCC under the Novo Cinemas brand, according to Elan Group’s website.

Festival First for Indian Film Director Soukarya Ghosal’s 2018 Bengali drama, Rainbow Jelly, made its Bahrain debut recently at the Summer Festival.

The movie tells of the trials endured by a young boy and his personal fight against them. Rated 9.2 on imdb, this film features a special child, a grumpy uncle and a fairy aunt.

The director brilliantly explores boyhood through Ghoton, the protagonist, played by child artiste Mahabrata Basu. Merging together fantasy and reality, local and global, Rainbow Jelly is the first food fantasy film in Bengali cinema.

This is the first Indian film to be screened at Bahrain Summer Festival and Soukarya Ghosal, in a Facebook post, referred to its inclusion as a “kingly gesture”.

Bahrain to Bengali Cinema Oman-born, Bahrain-raised model Sanjana Banerjee had always dreamed of becoming an actress. She first entered the limelight through a commercial ad. Proving that dreams can become reality, she is now appearing her debut film, Fidaa.

Fidaa, a Bengali picture, is a realistic coming-of-age romance about the perception of ‘love’ by today’s youth, produced by Shrikant Mohta and directed

by Pathikrit Basu.

She will play the character of Khushi, a girl who believes in love yet understands practicality, opposite love interest Ishaan, played by Yash Dasgupta. In preparation for her role, she worked hard to improve her Bengali. The film has just been released. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

International Yoga Day

The Shri Krishna Hindu Temple – Manama and the Thattai (Bhatia) Hindu Community celebrated the fourth edition of International Yoga Day with a demonstration of yogic postures by yoga expert, Anil Kumar Singh.

Awarness Seminar

The Indian Community Relief Find coordinated an awareness seminar organised by the Ministry of Labour & Social Development in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

KCA Cricket Tournament

The Kerala Catholic Association and Bahrain Financing Open Cricket Tournament 2018 took place at the KCA grounds.

Educational Forum

The Bahrain India Educational & Cultural Forum held a press conference to announce the Academic Excellence Award Night 2018.

KCA Music Club

The Kerala Catholic Association (KCA) Swaralaya Music Club inauguration was held at KCA VKL Auditorium.

KCA Toastmasters

The Kerela Catholic Association (KCA) Toastmasters Club inducted its new committee for the year 2018-2019. www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 53

indiaindependence

Unwind in Luxury Suzanne Nicholas introduces some of the subcontinent’s iconic train journeys.

With life ever faster paced, the need to find ways to unplug is greater now than it has ever been. A week-long train journey would usually go unconsidered when cramped seats, uncomfortable sleepers and bouts of motion sickness spring to mind. However, time spent on a luxury train opens the door to both travelling and winding down in style.

Royalty On-Board

Maharajas’ Express

Chettinad mansion

54 August 2018

Musical Pillars Temple

The award-winning Maharajas’ Express Train, just as its name suggests, is fit for kings. With two on-board restaurants, lounge bars and a fair number of luxury cabins, the Maharajas’ Express allows for exploration of fabled journeys from the comfort of your luxury quarters. You can choose between seven different routes across India packed with activities and sightseeing options galore. If you opt for the eight-day ‘Southern Jewels’ package, you will be treated to a memorable journey starting in Trivandrum. As you enter Chettinad, you will see streets lined with extravagant mansions, many with more than 60 rooms, victims to decay yet reminders of greater times. A trip to the Athangudi Tile Factory exposes you to handmade terracotta tiles that cannot be found anywhere else. You will also marvel at the five architecturally significant Rathas, chariots of the Gods, in Mahabalipuram then make your way to Mysore, after which you will be taken to see Hampi’s ancient structures: Virupaksha Temple and the Musical Pillars Temple. Your next destination will be well-known Goa, a state acclaimed for the amalgamation of the Portuguese culture with its own. Have a look at the chromatic Old Panjim houses on a leisurely stroll before the train heads to Ratnagiri and you have the opportunity to check out the ruins of the ancient horseshoe-shaped Ratnadurg Fort, formerly a look-out point for pirates. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bringing the Palace to You

The very first luxury train to run in the country, the magnificent ‘Palace on Wheels’ drew inspiration from the personal carriages of former Maharajas, Nizams and viceroys of India. Its sole journey aims to explore the land of past kings – Rajasthan. With coaches named after former Rajput states and the aesthetics and interior matching that of the royal past, this luxury train promises a royal experience like no other. The tour, beginning with a golden opportunity for pictures with traditionally dressed Palace on Wheels staff, departs from the capital, New Delhi. At Jaipur, the first destination, you will be royally welcomed, after which you can feast your eyes on the Pink City Palace, a compound of elaborate palaces, courtyards, gardens, decorative art and doorways and overall admirable architecture.

Make your way up the steep ramparts of the Hill Fort Palace of Amber for a spellbinding view. You will leave Jaipur and arrive in Ranthambore to an early morning jungle safari at Ranthambore Tiger Reserve. The jungle, home to big cats, pythons, crocodiles and a great many other wild animals will have you on the edge of your seat hoping to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. You will witness the Hill Fort at Chittorgarh and enjoy a boat ride around Lake Pichola in Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes. Why stop there?

The train also runs through Jaisalmer, allowing

Palace on Wheels

Lake Pichola, Udaipur

you to witness the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jaisalmer Fort, straight out of a fable.

Revel in a brief excursion to the sand dunes of the Thar Desert for awesome sunset snaps.

Another fort viewing and a bird sanctuary later,

Deccan Odyssey

Palitana

Rann of Kutch

A Poetical Tour

Eight days seems like a long time to explore one state and usually we’d agree. However, if the state in question is Gujarat and the chosen mode of travel is the Deccan Odyssey, we’re happy to concede. From Mumbai, you www.bahrainthismonth.com

will head to Vadodara, the cultural epicentre of Gujarat. From coaches that recreate a long-gone era and facilities including an on-board spa, you will step out of the train and into Jama Masjid, the 15th century mosque, an exquisite merging of Hindu-

Pink City Palace

at Jodhpur and Bharatpur, respectively, the highlight of your journey will be in Agra, your next-to-last destination, where you will visit the Taj Mahal, an ivory-white, marble mausoleum of flawless architecture.

Muslim architecture. You can also visit Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum and Laxmi Vilas Palace, a royal residence complete with intricate mosaic designs and a collection of sculptures and armour. You will spend time at Palitana next, a pilgrimage spot that gained popularity by way of a hilltop with 900 Jain temples. The next morning will bring with it an excursion to a wildlife sanctuary in Sasan Gir that boasts majestic Asiatic lions, and the evening will highlight Somnath Temple’s golden hues with you as its eager spectator.

The churning wheels of this ‘blue limousine on rails’ will then transport you to the waiting scenic white, marshy salt desert of the Rann of Kutch, which is one of a kind. After what will definitely be a photo opportunity, Patan, an eighth-century town, home to the sun temple beckons you. Rani Ki Vav, a well of the 11th century and one of the biggest in Gujarat, will also vie for your attention with other historical architectural landmarks. Before you disembark back in Mumbai, the Deccan Express will embark on a visit to Pandavleni, where its ancient Jain and Buddhist cave temples will leave you awestruck.

August 2018 55

bystander

Friday Brunch

Vijay Baloor hosted a brunch at Brazil Rodizio Grill and Lounge in Adliya.

Boby & Anne

Mahdi & Julia

Glenn & Renee

Daniella & Daniel

Carlo & Rosana

Lais & Bruno

Bharti & Vijay Baloor

Dane, Karim, Joao & Manfredo

Rijas & Gigi

Yasmin

Amanda, Jay & Sheldon

World Cup Screening

Gulf Hotel held a screening of the 2018 World Cup final at Sherlock Holmes.

Ryan, Ashraf, Kevin, Sunuj & Yazan

56 August 2018

To view more images, scan the QR code Pascal & Charlotte

Michael, Jano & Hameed

Angad, Reggie, Neeraj & Saran

Rahesh, Kishor & Alok

Alex & Carol

Ashu, Mona & Anyusha

Mohammed & Najim

Mazen Alumran & Amal

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

RBW Ghabga

RBW Group Bahrain held a Ramadan Ghabga event at Gallery 21 for its clients and partners across the region.

Vivek, Shiraz, Ali Farooq, Saad, Rajneesh & Kunal

Tausif & Nadeem

Mitali, Cagla & Dima

Duncun, Aakash, Aneesha, Farhan, Umair & Jubin

Adnan, Sankalp & Lynn

Malav & Rajneesh

Saad & Hussain

Kunal & Salem

Faisal, Imad, Aneesha & Umair

Pauline & Bijan

Kishor & Ali

Bob & Waleed Al Rayes

Khalid & Jaffar

Emad & Abdul Nabi

Marjan & Renuka

Rotary Appreciation Day The Rotary Club of Manama celebrated its Appreciation Day at The Gulf Hotel.

Mazen Alumran & Chetan

Mazen Alumran, Abdul Nabi & Johannes

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Waleed Al Rayes, Renuka & Ali

Ghada, Seema, Shafqat & Johannes

August 2018 57

bystander

Vargese Kurian & Shaikh Hisham To view more images, scan the QR code

Hotel Grand Opening Ceremony

Park Regis Lotus Hotel held its grand opening ceremony at its premises. The opening was inaugurated by Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority CEO, HE Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, in the presence of the Governor of the Capital Governorate, HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, a number of key officials, and ambassadors.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Jeeben

Mansoor, Raveendran & Soman Baby

Sayoojy & Anoop

Colin & Jane

Khalid, Ali & Mohammed

58 August 2018

Shaikh Khalid & Simon

Himanshu

Arshiyaa

Nasser & HE Dr A S U Mendis

Nasser & Ammar

Lizy & Sindhu

Pat & Joseph

Sudheer & Sunil

Naveen & Jomon

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOTORING

this month VintageTrabant

The Business Taskmaster, p60 Ford Model T

Classic Range Rover

My Life in Cars Testing A Legend, p62

DICK POTTER We currently live in a world in which the original combustion-engine-powered car is facing increasing oblivion.

The internal combustion engine shook our world, and the cars it resided in have been designed to many variables – industry, technology and development, aesthetic passion and the simple demand for mobility to the masses.

The car has evolved over the last 100 years. As the world strives to reduce emissions and road congestion, we seek alternative power methods and transit systems. Have you ever considered in this world we live in – with over 2 billion cars and 7 billion people – which cars have shaped the motoring industry? Which cars have been pioneering in moving us forward to where we are today? The list is indeed long. I thought I’d remind you of just a few of my favourites. Only a few, though, I would require more writing space from the Ed to list them all.

First up, for me, was the Ford Model T (1908). This car could be said to have modernised the USA. It was easy to drive, had suspension to suit the rural roads and was made affordable by using the first vehicle production line.

The original Volkswagen (1946) was also noteworthy.

Taking his orders from a nasty little man with a moustache, Mr Porsche designed this ‘people’s wagon’.

It had the longest production run from 1946-2003, during which it distributed a staggering 21 million units worldwide. The Volkswagen also gave us electrical and mechanical reliability not previously seen.

The Trabant (1957) mobilised post WWII Eastern Europe with a two-stroke engine and reinforced plastic www.bahrainthismonth.com

body work. Doomed environmentally after the Berlin Wall came down, it remains a huge symbol for a change in Germany no one expected to see.

In 1956, the Suez crisis and petrol rationing brought the need for a small economy car. Ta dah! Enter the Mini in 1959. It had a transverse engine and integrated gear-box designed by Issigonis, who revolutionised economy motoring.

The arrival of the Range Rover in 1970, essentially transformed the basic Land Rover into a comfortable, quieter off-road vehicle. It also paved the way for car manufacturers to move to the SUV design concept.

Interestingly, the Range Rover designer always regretted it becoming the status symbol it became – the Chelsea Tractor anyone?

The Jaguar E-Type (1961) was, and indeed so remains, a highly desirable British sports car icon.

Resembling a race car – for which purpose it was hugely successful – it introduced aerodynamic design with a 240kph performance for a fraction of the cost of a Ferrari or an Aston.

There are obviously so, so many other cars that defined the motoring industry both in engineering, materials and design. Such evolution in motoring will undoubtedly continue, but will it be so interesting or with such design passion? Alas, I think not.

Unfortunately for us petrolheads, we are staring at the future of electric and self-driving cars. We must pander to the whims of the safety and environmentally conscious. But, my goodness, how incredibly the car industry got here and what wonderful and amazing vehicles have been with us on this 100-year journey.

However, I fear these fantastic creations will soon be found only in museums and the garages of wealthy private collectors.

Email dick@redhousemarketing.com

A New Record, p64

A Re-imagined Supercar, p65

View more info online

August 2018 59

motoring

JAC

The Business Taskmaster The M1 Refine defines the role of business efficiency.

60 August 2018

JAC’s Refine Minibus is an ultimate choice for any business. With options from three to 12 seats, the wagon plays a variety of business and leisure roles: as a hotel shuttle, for tourists on sightseeing trips or for taking businesspeople to the big event.

The Refine bus comes in a range of colour options, which combined with its fashionable design element, reliability and economy, are part of the vehicle’s DNA. The stable, modern exterior is complemented by a comfortable, convenient and spacious interior.

The Refine features a vivacious design and LED cornering lamps. The wagon versions boast a pair of fog lamps, which are neatly blended into the lower section of the front bumper. With their high penetration capability, you will feel more secure.

The 12-seat model offers a quiet cocoon in which driver and passengers lack nothing of substance.

The general sense of roominess is helped by having the gear lever located on the central console, thus helping to create a full-length flat floor space. The Refine’s clever design allows the seats to be tipped up, slid or reclined. Whatever the circumstances, there’s sure to be a combination to suit your requirements.

Safety is a key element in every JAC vehicle and the Refine MPV has an impressive new safetysurround design. The driver and front seat passenger in the wagon can be reassured with the inclusion of twin air bags. In a serious accident, these devices

instantly inflate to help protect the seat occupants from injury. The body is made from high-strength material to absorb impact in case of a collision.

Large and powerful disc brakes are available on the rear wheels as well as those on the front. They provide the high level of stopping performance required when a wagon or van is fully laden. The ABS+EBD braking systems guarantee driving safety.

The two- or three-seater Refine is not just a sensible business tool. While it is primarily a practical, hard-working load carrier, those seated upfront will appreciate the high degree of comfort and convenience that feature in a beautifully appointed passenger cabin. Behind, the cargo compartment is a giant box more than 2.37m long, 1.65m wide and 1.15m high.

The rear seats are arranged in a two plus three configuration and passengers can enjoy the extra space afforded by the new wider body.

The JAC M1 Refine three-seater cargo van is available at just BD3,495 as a special offer this Ramadan. Alternatively, the vehicle is available to lease at BD120 per month (terms and conditions apply).

Take a look and try out the range of JAC vehicles.

For attractive finance schemes and test drives, visit the JAC showroom located at Segaya Plaza, Zinj.

Ramadan timings are 9am to 1pm and 7pm to 11pm.

Call 17 270-270. www.bahrainthismonth.com

READY TO MEET ALL YOUR NEEDS for your business JAC SUNRAY 15 Seater Passenger Bus

BD 7,495 ONWARDS

JAC SUNRAY Passenger Bus • 15 Seater • Wide Leg Room • Individual High Back Seats • Curtains • Automatic Boarding Step • High Roof Convenience • 3 Years / 100,000 kms Warranty

Leasing options available

JACBahrain

Segaya Plaza, Zinj. Tel: 17 270270. E-mail: jac@autoosbahrain.com

motoring

Testing A Legend

Jeep Wrangler invited BTM to Camp Jeep 2018 in Austria and Bill Grieve jumped at the chance to check out some iconic vehicles.

“Darwin’s Theory of Evolution By Natural Selection, simply put, holds that more individuals are produced each generation than can survive. Phenotypic variation exists among individuals and the variation is heritable. Those individuals with heritable traits better suited to the environment will survive.”

When Charles Darwin introduced the Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection in 1859, he had no idea just how close he would come to describing the evolutionary progress of the Jeep. Somewhere between an advanced racing car and a modern tractor, between a cheetah, a buffalo and a mountain goat, on a timeline never created, you will find the Jeep rang — waiting, willing, wanting and purposeready to perform.

The Jeeps that have evolved are like civilization itself, far more advanced now than at any other time in history, and constantly evolving and improving to meet the challenges of clients that want only the best and consider position to be nothing and performance to be everything.

The annual Camp Jeep 2018 took place in Styria, Spielberg, Austria, attracting more than 1,000 Jeep enthusiasts and featuring 600-plus vehicles. The event is the largest on the Jeep Owners Group (JOG) calendar.

The stunning venue was also host to the 62 August 2018

international media launch of the all-new Jeep Wrangler. The most award-winning SUV range of all time took centre stage and there were several on- and off-road trails with different levels of difficulty to test the Jeep 4x4’s legendary capability and drivers’ own all-terrain skills with expert Jeep Academy drivers in the technical area.

The Museum Area told the story of the brand, the iconic Wrangler and how Jeep continues to evolve and perfect the technical qualities of its SUV range while remaining faithful to its tradition and uniqueness.

The story of the Wrangler commemorates

the anniversary of the signing, in 1941, of the agreement to supply the US Army with the unstoppable Willys-Overland MA/MB – the Wrangler’s pioneering and illustrious forebear.

Visitors could trace the history through the three previous Wrangler generations from the first 1941 Willys to the present day. The Willys was a small four-wheel drive truck engineered for use on challenging terrains, to serve as a troop carrier and reconnaissance vehicle. The vehicle, built until 1945, was designated ‘General Purpose’, the acronym of which, GP, is pronounced ‘Jeep’.

At the end of the Second World War in 1945, the four-wheel drive military truck was used as the basis for the CJ-2A Civilian Jeep, the automotive industry’s first modern, off-road vehicle. Ever since then, Jeep has always stood for freedom as a state of mind and the determination to follow the instincts, with its ability to face any challenge thanks to its worldleading all-terrain capabilities.

These capabilities are hardwired into the DNA of all Willys and Wrangler models, including those on display in the museum area: a Willys MB dated 1944, a CJ-2A from 1945, a YJ from 1991 (the first Wrangler generation), a TJ 4.0 Sahara dated 1998 (second Wrangler generation) and the Rubicon 3.6-litre Recon, the special series based on the third generation of the Jeep icon.

Camp Jeep 2018 was open to the public on select days and served up a thrilling brand experience in authentic Jeep style. Official

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jeep merchandising and Mopar accessories were featured in special areas, as well as shows, barbecues, children’s activities and live concerts to keep the crowds entertained and the unique atmosphere going throughout the weekend.

The Jeep Wrangler was the star of the event with many of the attractions designed to showcase the all-round ability and appeal of the latest generation of the brand’s most iconic model. Boasting the legendary off-road capability for which the Wrangler is famed, the new model is equally at home on and off the road, featuring a suite of advanced technology and specialist equipment, including two advanced four-wheel drive, active, on-demand full-time systems – Command-Trac and Rock Trac – plus Tru-Lock electric front- and rearaxle lockers, Trac-Lok limited slip differential and electronic front sway-bar disconnect.

In addition to testing the unstoppable Wrangler, enthusiasts who signed up for the fifth edition of Camp Jeep experienced a packed programme, which included the opportunity to test the extraordinary performance of the new Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, the most powerful and fastest Jeep vehicle ever – fitted with a supercharged 6.2-litre V-8 engine delivering 700hp – as well as exciting test drives in the entire Jeep SUV line-up.

The new 2019 Jeep Renegade was among the models available for testing, with its innovative range of turbo petrol engines developed to deliver greater fuel efficiency and outstanding performance both on- and off-road.

Visitors were also able to take a close look at the new Jeep Cherokee, the latest version of the brand’s capable mid-size SUV. With all of the off-road ability expected from a Jeep model, the new Cherokee offers a fresh take on the brand’s classic style elements and is packed with userfriendly technology for superior comfort, connectivity and occupant protection.

Another dedicated area hosted some of the most significant custom-built concept cars displayed over the last four years at the annual www.bahrainthismonth.com

Easter Jeep Safari – the event for off-road enthusiasts that takes place in Moab the week before Easter. Three of them – the Jeep Safari, the Jeep Trailcat and the Jeep Wrangler Africa – are unique, extreme customisations of the Wrangler and pay homage to the icon of the Jeep brand, while the B-Ute and Wagoneer Roadtrip are based respectively on the Renegade and Wagoneer.

Anyone wanting to take a souvenir home as a reminder of this great event had a selection of official Jeep products in the merchandising area, while the Mopar area offered a vast array of original accessories and parts for customising Jeep SUVs. This area also displayed two different customisations of the Jeep Wrangler Sahara for visitors to admire: one capable of showing off the legendary off-road capabilities of the iconic Jeep, and the other put together for those who wanted to stand out with their unique style in the city, too. The first – the ‘Off-

road’ one – featured a 2’ lift kit, 17’ off-road gear wheels and tyres, 1941 hood graphic and Moab body graphic, moulded splash guards, mesh bikini, snorkel and specific windscreen off-road lights. The second – the ‘Urban’ one – exhibited silver valve caps with Jeep logo, 1941 body graphic, 32’ tyre cover and several chrome details adorning the tube steps, door sills and fuel door.

Everything was ready for the new adventure in the best Jeep Jamboree style following the stars-and-stripes tradition of gatherings created to savour the excitement that everyone feels when joining the big Jeep family. About 30 of these events are held every year, from California and Maine to Arizona and Tennessee.

Jeep Jamborees all propose the same winning formula as the first meeting held in 1953 on the legendary Rubicon Trail in the mountains between California and Nevada.

Information provided by Jeep August 2018 63

motoringnews&launches

Celebrate Like Never Before Al Haddad Motors offers gifts on gifts until Eid al-Adha for you to take advantage of. Providing a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage on all Mercedes-Benz models, in addition to a five-year Service Select Plan or tailored on-road packages, the company offers a Star Gift Pack, which includes a choice between receiving ceramic paint protection, window tinting or Mercedes-Benz accessories. Further sweetening the deal, customers are offered a BD1,000 voucher off any of the Mercedes-Benz Certified pre-owned vehicles (at the Mercedes-Benz Certified pre-owned showroom) as well as a gift of up to five years’ Service Select Plan and remainder of five-year warranty.

Another cause for celebration was the awards ceremony at the Tubli showroom that honoured recipients of the Mercedes-Benz Certified

status. Daimler regional sales manager, Nicholas Powell, and Al Haddad Motors GM, Warren Hudson, presented the honourees their Left to right, Nicholas Powell, Christopher Dean, Fatima Alawami, Bryan Logue and Warren Hudson certificates: Bryan Logue, the certified sales manager, Christopher Dean, the certified showroom manager, and Fatima Alawami, the certified sales consultant.

A New Record Porsche, the Stuttgart-based manufacturer, showed its credentialfuelled performance with a record time of 02:18:96 with the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, establishing the fastest completion of a lap for a luxury fourdoor hybrid saloon at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Porsche testing and development driver, Lars Kern, undertook the challenge of setting the lap record using standard road tyres. Colin Sattar, brand manager, Porsche Centre Bahrain, Behbehani Bros, commented on the lap time, saying: “Porsche has an unrivalled heritage of setting lap records on some of the world’s most famous race tracks, so to now add the Bahrain International Circuit to that list is an impressive accolade.”

A Sound First The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, the fastest and most fuel-efficient Panamera to date, combines performance, comfort and efficiency to keep up the Porsche name. The record it set in Bahrain was one of six best times for this model category achieved in the Middle East, India and South Africa.

Well-Deserved Rewards Of 31 brands that were ranked on reliability and quality, of which 13 are world premium automotive makes, Hyundai has bagged third-highest in the JD Power 2018 US Initial Quality Study (IQS). The study serves as the industry benchmark for new-vehicle quality measurement, and Hyundai’s ranking goes to show the well-earned quality of the marque.

Hyundai’s spectacular aesthetics, state-of-the-art technology and impressive performance cannot go unnoticed in the face of such an award. Ahsan Chishty, GM of supplier First Motors, says: “It is a great honour that the Hyundai brand has been recognised as a direct result of the company’s dedication to building vehicles of a superior quality.”

Among vehicles in the Small SUVs division, the Hyundai Tucson was placed first, and the Hyundai Santa Fe came second in the Midsize SUVs classification for quality ratings.

64 August 2018

Bentley and Bang & Olufsen integrated the Danish brand’s revolutionary BeoSonic interface into the new Continental GT, thereby breaking new ground in the automotive world.

A user-friendly touchscreen on an interface, featuring an eclipse design, allows for the sound tuning of Bang & Olufsen BeoSonic One-Touch Experience providing four distinct audio spaces: Bright, Energetic, Warm and Relaxed. The user can manipulate the music to suit their current mood with a colour palette showing the chosen sound mode. The system features 16 active loudspeakers and a powerful 1500-watt BeoCore DSP amplifier, ensuring an impressive high-quality sound.

The tightly placed design of the speaker grilles, featuring a uniquely designed Fibonacci hole pattern, achieves the best acoustic transparency. What’s more, the LED illumination of the holes is a treat for the driver’s eyes as the system turns on. With reduced exterior noise as well, this luxury car brand provides a unique sound experience and is proof of high value British manufacturing at its best.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

New Blood Rolls-Royce begins a new chapter with César Habib as regional director, Middle East and Africa, from August 1.

With a University of Passau (Germany) diploma in business administration, he kickstarted his BMW career in 2000 as a César Habib parts business consultant and worked his way up, holding a number of senior positions in sales, aftersales, sales channel development and business development. He joined RollsRoyce in 2015, with his most recent role as head of Bespoke, overseeing record sales and the continuous development of the Rolls-Royce Bespoke business, of which the Middle East is a leading region.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös was pleased to announce that: “César has an exceptional track record and, with his broad experience and in-depth knowledge of the business and the region, he is ideally positioned to take on this new role.”

A Rugged Personality

A Re-imagined Supercar The first collaboration between Nissan and Italdesign, the Nissan GT-R50 made its world debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in Chichester, England, last month. The vehicle commemorates the 50th anniversaries of both the GT-R, in 2019, and Italdesign, in 2018.

The car is developed, engineered and manufactured by Italdesign, combining Nissan’s latest GT-R NISMO with European-style brute force and Italian artistry. Italdesign plans to produce no more than 50 of these tailormade beauties.

Significant design features include a distinct power bulge on the hood, stretched LED headlights, a lowered roofline and prominent ‘samurai blade’ cooling outlets behind the front wheels.

The muscular exterior is finished in a Liquid Kinetic Gray colour, with Energetic Sigma Gold anniversary accents. The interior reflects modernity and elegance with its black Alcantara and fine black Italian leather seats coupled with a cockpit that echoes the gold accents of the exterior.

Middle East Debut Nicolas Tschann

For versatile and comfortable everyday driving, Renault Middle East welcomes the all-new Duster.

With modern and robust exterior styling, the SUV’s exterior boasts a wide chrome-finish grille extending to the headlights, a front skid plate and Renault’s signature C-shaped lighting with LED daytime running lights.

Additionally, its reinvented interior includes ‘Easy Life’ features such as Hill Descent Control, Multiview Camera and Blind Spot Warning, 4x4 monitor, Remote Engine Start (GCC only), automatic air conditioning, a touchscreen tablet and keyless entry system. It also has new safety features and improved 4WD driving experience, offering what is among the market’s very best off-road capabilities.

Renault Middle East managing director, Marwan Haidamous, is confident the new Duster will “reinvent and reinvigorate the brand to new levels of performance and positive opinion”.

The new Duster is available in both 2WD and 4WD specifications. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Markus Leithe, Managing Director INFINITI Middle East

The new INFINITI QX50 premium SUV made its first Middle East appearance in Dubai, UAE, last month. Markus Leithe, managing director Middle East at INFINITI Motor Company says: “The Middle East is a key focus region for INFINITI globally and the all-new QX50 is one of the most important vehicles we’ve unveiled here in the past year.”

The QX50 is the first in the world to be powered by the four-cylinder, 2.0-litre

VC-Turbo (Variable Compression Turbo) gasoline engine, one that can vary compression ratio on the fly, offering the power of a sprinter and the efficiency of a marathon runner. Additionally, the advanced safety features of this car are noteworthy, along with its striking design.

The all-new QX50 will be available at INFINTI showrooms in the Middle East from September 2018. Prices start at USD44,400 excluding VAT. August 2018 65

bystander

Sumaya, Julie Anne & Betsy Hajar, Bakhtawar & Reem To view more images, scan the QR code

Graduation Ceremony

The British School of Bahrain held a graduation ceremony at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Megan, Sam & Diyal

Amal & Razam

Dr Spurr, HE Simon Martin & Rabih

Fatima & Daniya

Chocolate Friday Brunch

Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain held a chocolate-inspired Friday brunch at its premises.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Sultan & Robbie

Mayyra & Zain

Fatima & Tanishqa

Daniel, Andrew, Sumaya & Adam

Iain & Sumaya

Yaser, Elaine & Jaffar Bryan, George & Dan

Crisanto & Bchecka

66 August 2018

Chris & Sara

Yanis, Layla & Guli

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING

this month Head chef Faraz Patel

Meals on Wheels, p68

Taste of Turkey Liz O’Reilly checks out the latest offering from the Ramee Group’s flagship property.

The arrival of a new restaurant is always cause for celebration. And when it’s open 24 hours and offers food, beverages and a party vibe, you can double that happy-dance feeling. So, I was delighted to be invited along to try Antalya, the new dining spot at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. The surroundings are congenial but operations director, Hossam, who came for a chat, explained that he is still working on the interiors with plans for screening and curtains on the street-facing windows as well as additional high-mounted TV screens which can be utilised for special events.

We chose to sit in the extensive glass terrace smoking area and were served an appetiser of hummus, moutabel and labneh with crispy triangles of toasted Arabic bread to help our menu selection along.

Antalya, as the name would suggest, has a substantial Turkish element to the menu, alongside Mediterranean dishes and pizzas. And, with any vaguely Eastern eatery, I always feel the hummus is a good yardstick for the rest of the fare. This was good, very good, with a rich consistency and a sharp tang on the tongue. Surprisingly, I was also rather taken with the labneh, a dish I would not usually touch.

Thick, mild and creamy with none of the yoghurt sourness one so often finds, it looked like a puff of cloud – and tasted much as I imagine a puff of cloud would taste, too. I had to actually limit myself to two (OK three) scoops, or I could quite happily have eaten the whole dish.

Our starter of kibbeh was equally impressive. This one is my dining companion’s own personal yardstick, so I was hoping she would approve. And, it certainly didn’t disappoint. We’d asked them to leave out the coriander and they were happy to oblige – a really good sign of fresh prep. Piping hot and crispy coated with a tasty, fluffy interior, we could not have asked for better and would probably return for these and the labneh alone.

The spicy cubed potatoes we’d also chosen were a little heavy on the lemon, but that’s purely down to personal taste, and something I would mention if I were ordering them again since the kitchen is clearly happy to accommodate special requests.

For our main course we were treated to a giant platter of traditional mixed grill. Slicing into beautifully pink lamb chops had my mouth watering, and the marinade of seven spice, chili paste and garlic imparted a truly delicious and quite unexpected flavour to meat so tender it literally melted on the tongue. The chicken shish tawook was beautifully soft and juicy while the beef kebab was a winner with delicate charring on the outside giving way to a deliciously moist, almost rare centre. The grill also included the traditional kofta, of which I am not usually a fan. But I can honestly say this too impressed, with none of the gristly fattiness I find so off-putting.

With barely room to breathe in the waistband of my trousers, I had not saved space for dessert.

However, when a confection of light-as-air chocolate sponge layered with rich chocolate mousse arrived at the table… Well, it would have been rude not to, and it was truly the perfect end to a fabulous repast.

Hidden Gems, p70

A Regal Affair, p71

Celabrate in Style, p72

View more info online

August 2018 67

dining TALABAT

Meals on Wheels

Bahrain’s leading online food ordering and delivery service has offers you simply cannot refuse.

68 August 2018

Need an emergency box of tacos to satiate that Mexican food craving? A sudden longing for a cheesy baked potato midweek treat? Fear not, Talabat can definitely help. Being the country’s go-to online food ordering and delivery marketplace, and with approximately 30 various cuisines on its platform, the service aims to accommodate the needs, wants, preferences and taste buds of all its users.

The company was initiated in Kuwait, in 2004, and following popular demand expanded into the other GCC countries, entering Bahrain in 2012. Striving for excellence in customer service, Talabat is determined that your online food ordering experience be uncomplicated, yet thorough.

With a vision to give people access to restaurants in a simple yet effective way, the platform provides the option of placing orders through its website or a few taps on the Talabat mobile app — users face no hindrance to their ordering experience. Additionally, the Talabat-owned delivery fleet provides users with live tracking and faster delivery, increasing customer satisfaction.

The month of July saw the company offer 30 per cent discount on a multitude of restaurants covering a range of cuisines. From July 9 to July 23, users could enjoy their favourite dishes from their favourite restaurants without worrying about the price factor.

As all good things must, the offer has drawn to an end, but don’t lose heart, as Talabat continues to provide a hassle-free food ordering experience and find new ways to satiate your appetite for great food and drinks.

If you’re looking for a way to escape Bahrain’s harsh summer that doesn’t factor in a vacation, perhaps a refreshing lemon mint juice from The Kop Café or a fruity frozen yoghurt cup from Pinkberry would do the trick for the time-being? In the meantime, the food delivery experts assure loyal users that August will bring in more great deals to keep you going for the summer.

For those who love prizes as much as great food, Talabat and Batelco have teamed up to offer you the chance to win weekly prizes, including two roaring grand prizes: two Chevrolet Camaros! For a short period only, placing orders using your Batelco number will automatically enter you into the draw and you will be eligible for the said prizes. As you might have already guessed, the more orders you place, the higher your chance of winning. Winners will be announced on Talabat’s Instagram account, so stay tuned to @talabatbh.

Visit www.talabat.com/bahrain or download the Talabat App on iOS and Android devices. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Portfolio Review

The Bahrain Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Visual Design final year students, in conjunction with Behance, organised a portfolio review event at the Bahrain Polytechic campus.

Anthony & Chris

Sarah & Mohamed

Mayana & Aysha

Bipin, Nanet & Carmela

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Karen & James

Maryam & Maryam

Abdulla & Nasser

Bushra & Ammar

Alya & Seema

Asma, Sawsan, Haifa, Jenan & Ghaida

Ellen, Grey & Jolly

August 2018 69

dining

HIDDEN GEMS IN BAHRAIN

DARSEEN CAFÉ

by BILL GRIEVE

P

rimus inter pares is the Latin term for “first among equals” – Darseen Café is right at the front of our Hidden Gems in the Bahrain jewel collection.

Breakfast, lunch or early dinner – this restaurant really is a winner. Situated inside the Bahrain National Museum, it is their bestkept treasure. Fantastic seating – indoors, outdoors, formal, comfort, coffee shop style or café style – this restaurant offers it all.

Amazing décor, a stunning environment and the opportunity to turn a friendly coffee or a meal into an outing, and an educational visit all in one. Not only that – buy a ticket at the door on the way in for ‘The Boat Ride’ for just BD1 – you will be enthralled, delighted and excited – before you’ve even ordered the food!

You also have eight outstanding museum

halls and displays to visit for just BD1 as well – talk about value! It’s easy to get to on its own road, with a great entrance, plenty of covered parking, a wonderful outing and the most incredible value for money imaginable.

This secluded café offers some of the best ambience and food in Bahrain – prepared by Bassam, the Bahraini chef, who will surpass your expectations on what he conjures up in the immaculate kitchen area. Great staff and pleasant service – unbeatable!

Go once – you won’t stop going back. A real hidden gem!

Opens daily from 7.30am to 7.30pm, except Fridays from 9am to 5.30pm.

Call 77 336-600.

Angelina Opening

Angelina Paris held a grand opening ceremony at its premises in Adliya.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Helen, Zoe, John & Bob

Fadi & Ahmed

70 August 2018

Marina & Munira

Jean Christophe & Jalal

Rodolphe & Alexander

Ebrahim & Fatema

Marina & Munir

Chamda

Oksana & Nebu

Jacques, Elaine, Eric & Jean Christophe

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

SUMMER DEAL Sheraton Bahrain Hotel has an offer you cannot resist. Head to Al Safir Restaurant for lunch or dinner any day of the week (except on theme nights and during other promotions) to enjoy a lavish buffet laden with international dishes just for BD10++ per person. Lunch is on from 12.30pm–3.30pm, while dinner begins at 7.30pm and runs all the way to 11.30pm. The outlet accepts the Entertainer voucher’s ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ deal, where one diner eats free of charge for every paying guest. Enjoy a wide variety of delicacies in a five-star setting at these fantastic prices – it doesn’t get better than this!

Call 17 533-533.

MARINE DELIGHTS

Baharat, the elegant eatery at the Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain, hosts a Seafood Night every Thursday from 7pm–11pm. Indulge in global delicacies like Lobster Thermidor and sushi. A wide selection of fresh oysters, prawns, clams, types of filleted fish and mussels can be cooked to your liking. The buffet costs BD24, inclusive of soft drinks and water, or BD29, including selected free-flow beverages.

Call 17 171-1441.

A REGAL AFFAIR

FESTIVE FARE Bahrain Bay Kitchen at the iconic Four Seasons Bahrain Bay Hotel offers a spectacular Eid brunch that will span the first three days of Eid al-Adha from 1pm–4pm. The gourmet buffet will include an exclusive, traditional goat carving station and live entertainment for everyone to enjoy. There will be complimentary indoor and outdoor activities for younger guests at the Kids For All Seasons Club.

This culinary extravaganza is priced at BD25++, inclusive of soft beverages, or BD35++, inclusive of selected beverages.

Call 17 115-500.

RELAXED WEEKENDS Every Friday, La Med at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, offers a fantastic lunch buffet that is influenced from the East, West and everything in between. This luxury spread is served from 12.30pm–4pm and costs BD30++ with soft drinks, or BD 35++ with special beverages. Families can file in on Saturdays to enjoy a scrumptious buffet laden with savoury dishes and decadent desserts, priced for BD15++ including soft drinks from noon to 3.30pm.

Call 17 586-499.

JUST CHILL OUT Reef Resort’s Shisha Lounge offers patrons an unbeatable offer this summer.

Enjoy a complimentary meze platter with any shisha order every day of the week. Cruisy beats, an exotic shisha menu, tempting Lebanese grills and Arabian desserts make the Shisha Lounge the ideal destination to wind down and relax after a long day. The indoor, air-conditioned lounge offers cosy privacy for guests, while a relaxing outdoor terrace offers sparkling pool and sea views.

Call 13 110-110.

Rivaaj Restaurant at the classy Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa has a special Discover India Menu for lovers of Indian cuisine. This exclusive set menu is prepared by the renowned chef, Javed Qureshi, at the property’s critically acclaimed five-star Indian restaurant. Unlock a unique royal dining experience full of heritage and sophistication crafted to offer you the perfect harmony between exotic flavours and regal ambience. It is available every Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday and costs BD10 per person. The price includes food only. The restaurant is open only for dinner.

Call 17 636-363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 71

tablehopping When? Daily Event? Special Lunch Menu Venue? Espressamente Illy Café, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Enjoy a lunch menu priced at just BD2.9++, inclusive of soft drinks or water.

Call 17 533-533.

When? Daily Event? CUT Happy Hour Venue? CUT Bar & Lounge Enjoy chef Wolfgang Puck’s signature bites and drinks with chic music at BD3 from 5pm-7pm on weekdays and 4pm-7pm on Friday and Saturday.

Call 17 115-044.

When? Daily Event? Cup Cake Fête Venue? Macaron & Lobby, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Satisfy your sweet tooth and enjoy a lovely selection of delicious cupcakes made by talented executive pastry chef, Anis.

Call 17 636-363.

When? Fridays Event? Seafood BBQ Venue? Pool Delight, Reef Resort Indulge in the vibrant Oriental and continental flavors at a lavish buffet for a truly tantalising dining experience for BD18++ per person.

Call 13 110-110.

When? Sunday-Thursday Event? Business Lunch Venue? Baharat, Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain Try the lunch buffet at BD14.500 or the Soup and Salad buffet for BD6.600, from 12.30pm-3pm. Kids aged six to 12 dine at half price.

Call 17 171-144.

When? Sunday-Thursday Event? Ladies Breakfast Venue? Citrus, Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands Ladies, head here for a special breakfast buffet with unlimited coffee for BD4 from 7am-11am.

Call 16 000-099.

When? August 2-30 Event? Sukiyaki Promotion Venue? Sato Japanese Restaurant, Gulf Hotel, Bahrain Experience the Japanese hot pot in traditional Sato style with Wagyu beef and homemade sauces.

Call 17 713-000.

72 August 2018

DISCOUNTED GOODIES Furn Bistro & Bakery at the Westin City Centre Bahrain presents its Bread Promotion, wherein patrons can enjoy a 50 per cent discount on the entire range of available breads every day after 6pm. Guests can also savour a great selection of delicious cakes crafted by skilled hands all day at the venue. Enjoy the unique ambience lent by the venue’s Rotunda (onsite oven) and the delicious specials in the Furn Bakery display.

Call 17 171-441.

MEAT-Y MARVELS If you crave hearty Brazilian cuisine, then Via Brasil at the Wyndham Garden Manama in Juffair is where you should head to. This Brazilian-style, all-you-can-eat barbecue restaurant is a unique venue where you have unlimited cuts of juicy meat served straight to the table. Traditional passadores (meat waiters) come to your table with skewers speared with various kinds of meat — beef, lamb, chicken, and even delicious grilled pineapple. Guests can also take their pick from a wide selection of salads, hot appetisers and side dishes, as well as an extensive drinks selection to complement the meal. Located on the rooftop of the hotel, Via Brasil affords views of Bahrain’s fantastic skyline. The restaurant is open from 7pm-2am.

Call 66 316-666.

GASTRONOMIC GALA Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain stages a sumptuous construction-themed Friday brunch for islanders to relax and unwind over the weekend. Not only is this the only extended brunch in Bahrain, lasting all the way to 5pm, but it also offers excellent chef’s special delicacies, a lively atmosphere and a delightful selection of drinks. What’s more, the live band and DJs will have the latest hits going on, along with loads of surprises! The repast starts at 12.30pm at Al Murjan ballroom, and is priced at BD36 per person, including unlimited beverages. Children between six and 12 years of age receive a 50 per cent discount and kids below six years dine for free.

Call 17 460-017.

MEDITERRANEAN MUSINGS Fans of Mediterranean cuisine will be delighted to hear of the opening of the brand-new restaurant, Ya Hala, at the rooftop terrace of Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands. This restaurant and lounge has a menu that boasts influences from the Middle East, modern southern Europe, to the Levant — all served up in a cosy and welcoming setting with a splendid view of Amwaj Marina. The food is flavourful and expertly prepared, using high-quality ingredients. It serves tapas plates, pastas, sandwiches, mouthwatering desserts, plus excellent choices of main courses that are worth splashing out for. The licensed restaurant has live music and is open from 5pm-2am on weekdays, and from noon to 2am on weekends. Ya Hala makes for the perfect place for get-togethers with friends after work or as an evening venue for a special celebration.

Call 16 000-099.

CELEBRATE IN STYLE Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s Lebanese dining spot, Zahle, has pulled out all the stops for Eid al-Adha. The venue will put on an Eid-themed lunch buffet for the three days of the festival with authentic, live Lebanese entertainment provided by ‘one man show’ Raed, and singer Ella. The meal is priced at BD20++ per person. Dinner at Zahle will be a special set menu during the three-day celebration costing BD26++ per person. This period will also see the launch of a new exclusive, entertainment programme featuring belly dancer Jamila accompanied by celebrated Arabic singers for daily live entertainment.

Call 17 713-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

To view more images, scan the QR code

Vitamin D Campaign

Al Hilal Hospital launched its vitamin D campaign at Al Hilal Multispecialty Center Manama.

Asif, Shaikh Noora, Sharath & Lijoy

Husna & Sanitha

Niyas & Vineeth

Sonali & Neethu

Anisa & Shahida

Dr Devisree & Kishor

Lijoy & Akhil

Ching, Tony & Abhi

Safia & Ebrahim

To view more images, scan the QR code

Andino & Isabella

Dalia & Luisa

Seafood Night

Wyndham Grand Manama held a seafood night at Atmosphere Restaurant.

Tony & Nancy

Marina & Ilham

Pam & Joe

Shivani, Sushant & Bhargav

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Korhan & Brianna

Rain & Julie

Luiza, Mo, Dev & Belinda

August 2018 73

marketplace

EMPORIO ARMANI

#wearsEA

Emporio Armani is a hub of individuality that encourages everyone to be themselves. So, strut your own unique style with a little help from the brand’s latest Autumn-Winter 20182019 collection.

Emporio Armani inspires people to have an identity which is characterised by the projection of one’s own personality, finding character, strength and uniqueness in the differences in each of us.

The brand’s latest collection has a decisive, urban spirit, with an emphasis on the idea of new elegance: precious but not frivolous. The city wardrobe has a dynamic tone, combining the innovation of the lines with that of the materials. The slender and sharp silhouette is evidenced in small-shouldered, doublebreasted suit jackets, worn with flowing trousers, a wool trench coat with technical buckles, and a seamless kimono-style bomber.

The outerwear pays homage to the world of mountain hiking and outdoor activities, with curly-haired sheepskin coats and pony-effect goatskin jackets.

74 August 2018

Surfaces are treated and processed to produce tactile effects: chenille sweaters with fade-out patterns, jacquards with stylised trees and clouds creating a poetic camouflage-effect on sportswear, and butterfly wings fluttering like flowers on new tuxedos.

The palette is a dense amalgam of greys, blacks and deep blues, energised by the pure white of shirts, the cool tones of greens and blues, and the metal accents of gold and bronze. Accessories are functional, but come in refined materials: shoes with sharp lines, and capacious handbags featuring embossed patterns.

Post meridiem, all day long. The collection captures an unrestrained, night-time mood that subverts dress codes, mixing discipline and sparkle. The mood is spontaneous, everything is mixed up: what is traditionally designed for the evening is worn in daytime, with no need to show off or rebel. Rhinestones draw pinstripes on incisive suits. Classic mannish patterns light up with touches of lurex; metal sequins and small mirrors reflect and multiply the light.

The silhouette is sharp: masculine trousers and jackets, fluid overcoats and short skirts are combined following no rules or prescriptions. The logo recurs and remarks, as a print or as a jewel.

Accessories amplify and highlight the idea of dressing up as a play of contrasts: rethought cowboy boots are paired with bold-shaped bags.

Textures and finishes are focal, enhanced by a rich palette of blacks and greys lit up with touches of turquoise, green and cobalt blue – night-time seductions, in a metropolitan scenario.

The latest collection is available at Emporio Armani, Moda Mall.

Armani is managed by Rubaiyat Modern Luxury Products which has been at the forefront of luxury retailing for more than 30 years. Rubaiyat is a pioneer in bringing the fashion world’s leading names to the region from franchising licensed international fashion brands to its own chain of multibrand and monobrand boutiques. Rubaiyat exclusively represents and operates more than 50 standalone franchised boutiques throughout Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain.

Stay connected and get the latest updates by following @RubaiyatBahrain on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Call 17 131-024.

Womenswear Autumn-Winter 2018-2019 PM (Post Meridiem) “I enjoy watching people, bringing into my world the spirit of what I see around me, processing and reinventing it. Today everything gets mixed up, rules have been turned upside down. That’s the freedom I wanted to capture in this collection.”

– Giorgio Armani. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Magnifique Wedding Offers Summer calls for wedding bells, and there are few venues on the island that are as perfect as Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa to celebrate your big day.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Situated on Zallaq beach, Sofitel Bahrain is an exclusive resort that caters to both leisure and business travellers looking to unwind amidst views of the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf.

The French décor blended with traditional Arab flair highlights this five-star hotel’s dedication to creating an exceptional haven, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The resort is surrounded by a number of magnificent landmarks, such as Bahrain International Circuit, Gravity indoor skydiving, The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park and the Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve. It boasts 262 luxury rooms and suites, separated into four classes with the latest technology and a private balcony, to satisfy any guest. The six Opera Suites, with private infinity swimming pools, in particular, add to the feeling of being swept away, as each is decorated according to a different theme.

Guests can choose to sleep in a Turkish palace or an Indian haveli (mansion). Being the only hotel in the entire Middle East to offer thalassotherapy treatments, Sofitel Bahrain has created a space where both men and women can reap the health benefits of seawater treatments.

Sofitel Bahrain is also a renowned wedding hotspot and has hosted some of the biggest royal weddings as well as some of Bahrain’s most graceful ones. The property offers inspired wedding packages catering to various visions and styles. The venue can

host big or small occasions, with great flexibility, in contemporary or traditional staging design. Whether you opt for the grand Al Nakheel Ballroom or choose a more intimate ceremony at the private Sofi Island, Sofitel Bahrain’s team ensures an unforgettable and memorable day. A tailor-made menu allows for an impeccable experience, one guaranteed for you to cherish forever.

The hotel is renowned for its spectacular VIP weddings as well, and offers personalised packages that cater to everything from exotic sehra bandi (ritual of tying a traditional headdress) to an elegant ring ceremony. The dedicated wedding planners and concierge service will provide a magical touch to all aspects of your wedding arrangements. Highlights of your perfect wedding will include scrumptious gastronomic offerings, courtesy of executive chef Indrajit Saha, complimentary Prestige Suite with sea view and breakfast in bed, Sofitel Bahrain’s dedicated expert wedding team and, of course, a royal dreamland destination by the sea, unlike any other.

Whether you choose to dine, take advantage of the spa or lounge on the beach, Sofitel Bahrain offers the tranquility of a grand seaside resort, only minutes from the city.

Contact Sofitel Bahrain for personalised Magnifique Summer Wedding packages.

Call 17 636-363 or 17 636-341.

August 2018 75

marketplace LIALI JEWELLERY

eid mubarak!

There are many gifting opportunities during a year. But some occasions are way more special than others. Be it a festive season or a wedding, a priceless gift makes it memorable.

A diamond is the most valuable gift you can give someone.

Make this Eid more precious for those you love by giving them a gift that can withstand the test of time.

Liali is your one-stop jewellery boutique for the finest jewellery inspired from catwalks around the world. So, no matter what you are looking for, an engagement ring, wedding jewellery or just a simple gift, Liali has something for every budget. You can even personalise the jewellery by engraving a special message or memory on it. So, during this special month, come and spoil yourself, or someone you love...at Liali.

Eid al-Adha Offer!

Get matching earrings worth BD260 FREE with a Tennis necklace.

Earrings: BD260/-

Earrings: BD435/-

Necklace: BD1,450/-

Ring (1CT Look): Starting at BD305/-

Ring: BD475/-

Earrings: BD770/- | Pendant: BD420/-

Liali Jewellery is available at City Centre Bahrain.

Call 17 178-160.

76 August 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace MERCURE GRAND HOTEL SEEF

Grand Summer Deal Revel in the elegant luxury of Mercure Grand Hotel Seef with a great deal you just can’t refuse.

Ideally located in the Seef district, Mercure Grand Hotel Seef combines elegance and luxury with a host of facilities and services to spoil you this summer. This popular hotel offers a choice of suites – Executive One Bedroom, Executive One Bedroom with Twin Beds, and Executive Two Bedroom. Some of the other facilities offered include a restaurant, which features contemporary delicacies with a Mediterranean influence, live entertainment at Casa Lounge, as well as the Sama Pool designed for leisure and comfort.

Treat yourself to a little ‘me-time’ at the hotel’s spa, which pampers guests in a haven of calm and rejuvenation, with a sauna and steam room guaranteed to make you feel like a whole new person.

Enjoy a light or rigorous workout at the property’s impressive gym. As the sun sets, lounge by the intimate pool with a book in one hand and a summer cooler in the other, or, better yet, dive in for a welcome escape from the summer heat.

Adding to its allure, Mercure Grand Hotel Seef is now offering a limited-

time promotion to sweeten your summer. Valid until August 20, guests can book a one-bedroom suite (half board) starting from just BD49++.

Call 17 584-400.

www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 77

marketplace ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

Have a Gala Time The Atiram Premier Hotel has some amazing offers lined up for guests this season.

Atiram Premier Hotel in Juffair has unbeatable offers available for the summer months of August and September. Victor Lourdes, the front office manager, and his team are excited to welcome guests to this swanky property in upmarket Juffair.

Book your Bed and Breakfast package in a Deluxe Double Room during this period for just BD55. Early check-in or late check-out can be considered depending upon availability of the rooms. It’s a great opportunity to treat a special someone to a romantic weekend or have a fun family staycation with the children. If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, why not book one of the hotel’s Executive Suites and enjoy the high life with the Bed and Breakfast package during the same period for just BD99.

With an additional BD18 per head, you get to enjoy the very popular Friday Fun Brunch at Wembley Restaurant, inclusive of unlimited

drinks and a wide selection of dishes from the gala buffet. There’s a live barbecue and band, making for a great afternoon that you will remember forever.

Atiram Premier Hotel ensures that your weekends are packed with just the right recreational activities. Take a swim in the outdoor pool, relax in the Jacuzzi or just sip a cocktail on the sun terrace to truly chill out and

unwind. Enjoy great music at Coda Jazz Lounge, dance the night away at Cavallo Club, or catch up on all the sports action at Wembley. The establishment also boasts several restaurants that cater for a multinational crowd.

Call 17 811-811 or email reservations@ atirampremierhotel.com

CARREFOUR

An Exciting Shopping Experience Carrefour Bahrain is dedicated to providing its loyal customers with the very best products, as well as unique offers and promotions throughout the year.

One of the largest hypermarket and supermarket chains in the world, Carrefour was launched in the region in 1995 by Majid Al Futtaim, the exclusive franchisee to operate the brand in 38 countries across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. It operates different hypermarkets and supermarkets to meet the growing needs of its diversified customer base. In line with its commitment to provide the widest range of quality products and value for money, the retail giant offers an unrivalled choice of more than 100,000 food and non-food products as well as thousands of household goods.

Customers were in for some fun when Carrefour Bahrain organised a Score and Win Kids Penalty Shootout in the spirit of the FIFA World Cup, recently. The activity took place on June 29 and 30 at the hypermarket at The Bahrain Mall, and on July 6 and 7 at its City Centre Bahrain branch. Over 900 youngsters participated in the event.

“At Carrefour we are constantly seeking ways that we can offer our customers a unique and fun shopping experience,” says Jerome Akel, country manager for Carrefour Bahrain at Majid Al Futtaim Retail. “We were pleased with the positive responses on this initiative, and we will continue to find ways that aim to create great moments for everyone every day.”

The first store in Bahrain was launched in 2008. Today, Carrefour Bahrain operates seven hypermarkets and four supermarkets on the island. The brand is committed to continued business growth in convenient locations across the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

Visit www.carrefourbahrain.com 78 August 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

The Tooth Saver Endodontic specialist, Dr Pranav, explains a simple procedure that can avoid pain and tooth loss.

What necessitates a root canal treatment?

Inside each tooth is the pulp, which is soft tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels. It lies within the structure and extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the root in the bone of the jaw.

When the pulp becomes diseased or injured, the tissue dies. If you don’t remove it, the result can be pain and swelling and infection may set in. You could even lose the tooth.

What kind of treatment is involved?

Treatment usually takes one to three visits to the dentist. Your endodontist removes the diseased pulp from the pulp chamber and root canal(s) of the tooth and these are cleaned and sealed.

On the initial visit, here’s what you can expect: • Local anaesthetic usually is given to maintain patient comfort.

• The affected tooth is isolated from saliva with a rubber-like sheet called a rubber dam.

Dr Pranav

• An opening is made through the tooth (or crown).

The pulp is removed and then the root canal is cleaned and shaped. Medication may be added to the pulp chamber and root canal(s) to help cleanse the tooth and/or eliminate bacteria.

• A temporary filling is placed in the opening to keep saliva out. Antibiotics may be prescribed if an infection is present and has spread beyond the end of the root(s).

On the second visit: • The temporary filling is removed.

• The root canal is filled and permanently sealed.

If an endodontist performs the procedure, he or she usually will send you back to your dentist for preparation of a crown to be placed on the tooth.

Crowns are made from a variety of materials, depending on the location and colour of the tooth and the amount of natural tooth remaining. Discuss with your dentist which option is best for you.

How long does the treatment last?

If you take care of your teeth and gums, your restored endodontic tooth could last a lifetime. However, regular check-ups are necessary. As long as the root(s) of a treated tooth are nourished by the tissues around it, your tooth will remain healthy.

A root canal is a relatively simple procedure that can save a tooth with a diseased nerve. Without root canal therapy, you could lose that tooth.

Root canal treatment typically causes little or no discomfort and can be done in one to three visits to the endodontist, a dentist who specialises in the health of dental pulp (nerve) and in performing root canal treatment.

Call 17 812-000 or email pranavp@bsh.com.bh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 79

marketplace JOZ SALON & SPA

Rejuvenate Your Skin

Microdermabrasion might sound painful, but it’s actually one of the gentlest, fastest, noninvasive anti-ageing treatments around today.

Before you go running off to the salon to get the treatment, there are a few essential things to consider. Joz Salon & Spa explains the procedure in detail.

Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical facial resurfacing technique performed in a series of about six to 10 treatments. It mechanically exfoliates the outermost layer of dead skin cells (the stratum corneum) and vacuums them away, leaving your skin feeling softer and smoother — and if done well, looking younger and more vibrant.

The way it works is that when you remove the stratum corneum, the body has a minor freak-out, interpreting it as an injury. It quickly replaces the lost skin cells with new, healthy ones.

Microdermabrasion machines are rather expensive contraptions that use either crystals or diamonds to abrade the skin. Crystal microdermabrasion machines consist of a compressor that draws in air through a handheld stainless steel or glass wand. When the wand touches the skin, a vacuum is created.

The most common crystals used are 80 August 2018

aluminium oxide crystals, also known as corundum. Other crystals used are sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and magnesium oxide.

The treatment is non-invasive and recovery time is as little as one or two days. Best of all, you can have it done during your lunch hour and go straight back to work looking pretty good for someone who has just had their skin cells vacuumed off their face (but take your foundation along as your skin may be a little pink afterwards).

Facts About Microdermabrasion • It has been shown to diminish fine lines,

wrinkles and shallow acne scars, though results may vary from person to person.

• For those suffering from enlarged pores, it can help minimise pores and is great for unclogging them.

• It may decrease the appearance of superficial hyperpigmentation, age spots and other superficial skin damage caused by the sun.

• Removing dead skin through microdermabrasion can aid in the penetration of skin products by up to 50 per cent and, with a more even surface to work with, it allows make-up to go on more smoothly.

• Many people choose it over chemical peels and laser treatment because it is generally safer and more cost-effective.

• The procedure may be a little uncomfortable but shouldn’t hurt (though skin can feel a little tender afterwards).

• It stimulates blood flow, which increases the nutrition delivered to skin cells. This improves cell production, which improves skin’s elasticity and texture.

• It temporarily removes moisture, so it should always be followed by application of a rich moisturiser.

• The best results are usually seen by people in the early stages of ageing, between 35 and 50.

• It’s not recommended if you have skin conditions such as rosacea, eczema, dermatitis, active sunburn, herpes, lupus, open sores, psoriasis, fragile capillaries or widespread acne. Seek medical advice first.

• A series of six to 10 treatments is usually recommended for optimum results, with two weeks in between for skin to recover.

• The entire procedure usually takes about 30 minutes for the face, longer if you want your neck and other body parts such as hands and feet done.

• Skin will be more sensitive to sunlight afterwards, so stay out of the sun or use a good sunscreen.

• Your beautician should check with you about your comfort level during the treatment. Don’t be afraid to speak up if your face feels like it’s being sucked into a black hole.

• After the procedure, it’s important to look after your refreshed skin with nourishing skin care products.

Joz Salon & Spa in Juffair offers microdermabrasion.

Call 17 369-133. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace FRASER SUITES DIPLOMATIC AREA

Top-Notch Discounts Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area, the five-star luxury hotel residence, has great summer offers on sumptuous spa treatments and more.

Located in the centre of Manama, less than five minutes from The Avenues - Bahrain, the Kingdom’s newest shopping mall, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area offers guests all the facilities of a top-notch five-star hotel, including an indoor pool, a modern gym, steam and sauna, the Kids’ Club, sea-view Lebanese restaurant, Da Rosa, as well as the luxury boutique Haven spa.

The property boasts 114 fully furnished luxury one- to three-bedroom suites, ranging from 70sq/ft to 300sq/ft, all with stunning sea and city views. There are also six bespoke penthouses which occupy the top two floors, with sweeping views of the city and its glamorous skyline – an excellent choice for an ultra-refined experience of the Kingdom.

With excellent, proficient service and a top-class range of facilities, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area meets the needs of busy executives, families and international travellers, anticipating and exceeding their expectations with every stay.

Why not visit and take advantage of summer offers from pampering spa treatments to a cut-price lunch or some fun time for the kids?

• The Great Escape Spa Package comprises an aromatherapy massage, coffee body scrub and mani-pedi, priced at BD40 instead of the usual BD68.

• The Deep Breath Spa Package offers a Moroccan hammam, Swedish massage and facial treatment all for BD44 instead of the usual BD80.

• Complete your pampering with a healthy lunch priced at BD5 instead of BD6.5.

• And youngsters can enjoy the Fraser Suites Kids Summer Camps from 5pm to 9pm at BD6 instead of the usual BD10.

Mention FSBTM18 to take advantage of these special offers.

Call 16 161-888.

Restaurant Reopening The Butcher Shop & Grill held a reopening event at City Centre Bahrain.

Fareed & Michel

Faizan & Abdul Hasib

Lamees, Natasha & Ralph

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Layla & Naeema

Eman, Mohammed & Jawad

Prithvi & Vicky

Fareed, Jawad Al Hawaj, Pierre & Nicolas

Tiny & Zee

Anup & Vimal

August 2018 81

marketplacebusinessbites

Bahrain Bags Global Ranking

Celebrating Women In Power His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa issued a Royal Decree which included the appointment of two Bahraini women, Shawqiya Ibrahim Humaidan and Lamia Yousef Al-Fadhala, as directors general of the Capital Secretariat and the Northern Municipality, respectively.

Working to encourage municipal work in two governorates, they are the first ladies to take on the position in the history of the Kingdom.

The two women in senior administration positions in Bahrain’s municipal work add to the increasing level of female Bahraini participation in public affairs, which includes ministers, those of equivalent rank, and undersecretaries.

BBK-Orchid Developers Partnership The Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK) has partnered with Orchid Developers, a real estate and development company, to provide mortgage financing to the customers of Orchid Plaza.

Orchid Developers is one of the first in the Kingdom to offer freehold commercial and residential projects to its customers. Potential buyers will be referred to BBK for consideration if in need of funding.

BBK chief executive, Reyad Sater, claims: “Customers from all nationalities residing in the GCC, who wish to own a property in Orchid Plaza, will enjoy excellent interest rates and loan terms from BBK.” Dr Bashar Ahmadi, managing director of Orchid Developers, believes: “This partnership with BBK is a step towards a new era of convenience for [their] customers and building a strong relationship with the bank.”

82 August 2018

Classified amongst other countries with very high indexes, Bahrain ranked 26th globally and fifth in Asia within the United Nations eGovernment Development Index 2018. This makes Bahrain one of only two Arab countries to attain such a position, the other being the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Additionally, the Kingdom also achieved fourth position internationally within the Telecoms Infrastructure index.

The efforts of the Ministry of Transportation & Telecommunications as well as the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority included the launch of network technologies of 5G and the implementation of the Fourth National Telecommunications Plan, instrumental to this success.

The country’s performance on Sustainable Development Goals and social and public entities, were also evaluated.

BIBF and UOB on Employability

The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF), in collaboration with University of Bahrain (UoB), held an information session for UoB students at the Sakhir Campus.

The purpose was to highlight the necessity of professional qualifications in addition to students’ academic ones and the focus was on academic certificates plus sector-specific

professional qualifications.

With employers looking for candidates with vocational experience as well as academic, BIBF offers courses in several areas of specialisation, in collaboration with internationally recognised awards. The aim is to have university students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to achieve the growth objectives of the Kingdom. www.bahrainthismonth.com

BIA Introduces New Routes Bahrain International Airport has added new destinations and routes involving various airlines.

Gulf Air has expanded its network to include direct flights to Bangalore, Calicut, Abha, Tubuk, Alexandria, Sharm El Sheikh, Baku and Casablanca. Atlas Global has introduced new routes from the Kingdom to three destinations in Turkey. A new addition, Azerbaijan Airlines, Azerbaijan’s flag carrier, now operates directly between Baku and Bahrain. This newly introduced airline operates twice a week.

Bahrain Airport Company chief commercial officer Ayman Zainal said they expected to see further growth once the new passenger terminal building opens and BIA’s capacity increases to 14 million passengers a year.

New CFO for APM Terminals Bahrain

Hi-tech Scanning at BIA In an effort to replace old scanners at all custom ports at Bahrain International Airport (BIA), phase one sees six new high-tech devices, announced by Customs Affairs. The new machines will better detect illegal or potentially dangerous items.

Bahrain Airport Company Airport Modernisation Programme (AMP) development director, Derek Hendry, told the Gulf Daily News: “Security

screening will feature body scanners, X-ray machines for baggage handling and other equipment.”

President of Customs Affairs, Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa, visited BIA to inspect the new scanners and highlighted the importance of the high-level performance and dedication of the airport customs officers in reaching further achievements.

The operator of Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP), APM Terminals Bahrain, welcomes its new chief financial officer, Farooq Zuberi, to its leadership team.

A chartered accountant (ICAP) and chartered certified accountant (ACCA-UK), Zuberi has worked in senior leadership roles with PwC, Unilever, GSK and Emirates Group, before joining the APM Terminals Bahrain team as they get ready for their initial public offering this year.

According to Zuberi, focus will now be on maximising value creation for customers, shareholders and other stakeholders.

VIVA Collaborates with Skiplino With the aim of empowering the Bahraini start-up ecosystem, VIVA is collaborating with Skiplino Technologies to introduce Bahrain’s very first cloud-based queue management system by a telecoms operator.

This online system allows digital queuing through a mobile application so VIVA customers can conveniently book appointments at any of the company’s outlets by way of just a few clicks. The system considers the customer’s travel time, distance and any traffic delays before altering the appointment time accordingly so customers won’t have to wait at the outlet.

Skiplino has been the recipient of many global accolades, such as the Forbes Innovation Award 2017 and the World Summit Award 2016. Additionally, Skiplino has been crowned one of the top 100 start-ups by the World Economic Forum. www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 83

marketplacebusinessbites

Furthering Scientific Research During a high-level meeting, Bahrain and the UAE discussed ways of accelerating knowledge transfer and exchange of expertise in areas of scientific research.

According to Emirates News Agency, a pledge for closer working came at a meeting between HH Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Under-Secretary for International

Affairs at Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who is also the chairman of the Board of Trustees at the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International and Energy Studies. The participants talked about the centre’s main activities and its efforts in promoting scientific research.

Tender Victories According to the 2017 Annual Report released by the Bahrain Tender Board, the total percentage of opened tenders was up by 9.2 per cent when compared with the previous year. The value of the tenders was 156 per cent higher than that of 2016.

The top five purchasing authorities with the highest tender values were Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO), Gulf Air, Electricity and Water Authority, Ministry of Housing and Tatweer Petroleum.

HE Hayam Al Awadhi, secretary general of the Tender Board, praised its success saying: “We are very proud of what we have been able to achieve in the past 12 months and plan to continue on our path forward with more enhancements that tie directly back to our vision. We plan to continue improving the transparency and efficiency of the Kingdom’s Government procurement practices in ways that are sure to encourage more suppliers and contractors to engage with Bahrain.”

Aim to Launch First Satellite A campaign has been launched to set up a ‘space team’ to develop Bahrain’s space programme, one that plans to launch its first satellite within the next two years, according to Bahrain News Agency.

Kamal bin Ahmad, who heads the National Space Science Agency (NSSA) asserts that: “The Kingdom is planning to optimise the use of space sciences within five years to serve national development and keep abreast of global strides.”

The campaign looks forward to applications from Bahraini nationals, with 10 chosen candidates, all under 35, due to be selected to undertake two years of training to be at the heart of the programme.

84 August 2018

BisB Partners with Dadabhai Travel Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB) signed a joint venture partnership agreement with Dadabhai Travel, immediately after the bank’s relaunch of Al Thuraya Privilege Banking Services, which offers unique, new features to its existing products and services.

The signing ceremony was attended by Dalal AlQais, general manager of retail banking for BisB, and Shahnaz Al Qaseer, chief operating officer of Dadabhai Travel, as well as a number of officials from both parties.

BisB is positive about special travel-associated deals for Al Thuraya account holders while Dadabhai Travel claims it will be able to offer a multitude of services in partnering with the leading provider of Sharia-compliant integrated financial solutions.

Bahrain Opportunities Forum – A Success Organised at the British Parliament by former Pakistani Ambassador and Diplomat Business Club president, Javed Malik, the Bahrain Opportunities Forum was successful in accurately portraying Bahrain as a regional hub of business and trade.

Dignitaries and others in attendance saw a showcase of Bahrain’s business climate, trade and investment opportunities which intrigued participants regarding all Bahrain has to offer.

Being a hub of trade and gateway to the rest of the Gulf, the benefits of trading and business opportunities in the Gulf were highlighted. The former ambassador says: “Under the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Hamad, Bahrain has positioned itself as an inclusive and vibrant society that welcomes and provides opportunities to everyone.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylewhat'snew

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Trendy Trainers

A Guardian of Time Daisies have blossomed in Van Cleef & Arpels’ creations since the 1920s. This year, the flower blooms anew in the Marguerite Secrète watch, preserving the hours beneath a heart of yellow sapphires, revealing a diamond dial that echoes the sparkle of the petals. A transformable piece, the watch becomes a clip by assuming the central place in foliage of yellow gold.

Available at Van Cleef & Arpels Boutique, Moda Mall.

PUMA’s three new collections have arrived in Bahrain. After a wellreceived intro, Breaker Mesh jumps up a notch with a modern and futuristic style. The AVID, PUMA’s progressive runner, gets an update for autumn with Fusefit for endless lacing options, and now also comes in a women’s iteration, AVID WNS, with embroidered details.

Available at PUMA, City Centre Bahrain.

Supercool Shades Game On Enjoy a summer of sports with EA7 Emporio Armani, the sporty line of the sub-brand. It includes a large range of sportswear and equipment. Get all your fitness needs covered with training bags, trainers, tracksuits, T-shirts, shorts, caps and more – all designed for comfort and athletic practices.

Available at Emporio Armani, Moda Mall.

The latest Michael Kors 2018 Eyewear Collection features a dazzling selection of styles defined by iconic silhouettes and rich materials. Each is expertly crafted from custom-designed materials and highlighted by modern details, such as pierced metal, etched lenses or mixed-media designs.

Available at Michael Kors, City Centre Bahrain.

Delicious Lippies High-fashion blogger Caro Daur’s first collection with MAC – Oh, Sweetie – features scented patisserie-inspired lip colours. With mousse-like texture, they come in funfetti-bright, frosted opaque hues. Try Caro’s favourites Death by Chocolate and Purple Panna Cotta, or explore all 15 shades to find your own decadent delight.

Available at MAC, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain. www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 85

lifestylegadgets BTM brings you trendiest tech and greatest gizmos in its latest batch of cool gadgets.

Golf Umbrella with Score Counter

Handbag Hero It attaches to your bag handle via a circular carabiner clip. Simply tug the Hero to retrieve your keys. The Hero is long enough to reach the lock without the need for you to remove it from your handbag and can remain attached to the bag to make sure you don’t leave without your keys next time you go out.

Available at www.amazon.com

Keeps score of the whole round – all nine or 18 holes – and fits snugly into the handle of the umbrella which also contains a digital clock so you can time how long each shot is taking. The brolly has a black and white double canopy to protect you from the elements and is lightweight so won’t add much weight to your golf bag.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

Flask Tie This nifty item of attire allows any professional in a working environment to grab some discreet refreshment. Dying of thirst in a business meeting?

Take a sip of water from your tie!

It holds approximately 450ml which can be accessed via the permanently fitted plastic spillproof straw.

Available at www.amazon.com

Digital Luggage Scale These scales allow you to pack your bags with confidence, because this device gives you the exact weight of your suitcase every time! No more panicking at the check-in desk and stuffing as much as possible into your hand luggage. The scale is safe and easy to use – insert the scale belt through the handle of your luggage, lift it up and the LCD screen will display the weight up to 50kg.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

Portable Door Alarm Wedge This device gives you added security when wedging the door during sleep. Those who live in shared accommodation may crave a little privacy, or those who live alone may wish to sleep easier. The wedge slips under the inside of a door so that any unwanted visitors will set off a 130dB alarm, alerting neighbours and preventing the door from being opened.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

86 August 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylegadgets

Polar Pen Perfect for those who easily get bored or can’t keep their hands still while at work or school, the Polar Pen is comprised of 13 neodymium magnets to attach or detach to your heart’s content. It works great as a pen, a touchscreen stylus or as a plaything.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

Water Dancing Droplet Speakers Scribble Alarm Clock If you are constantly getting great ideas late at night whilst drifting off to sleep, then the Scribble Alarm Clock is the perfect bedside accessory for you. This simple yet clever device will beautifully illuminate your notes/ scribbles/drawings with a simple touch, and can be wiped off with a dry cloth when done.

It also features a backlit LCD scrolling pixel display showing time, temperature, year and date, countdown timer, calendar, birthday reminder, three different alarm melodies and the all-important snooze function.

Available at www.amazon.com

These conic speakers will not only provide the sound for your party but some of the lighting too! Packed into these cool speakers are colourful LEDs along with special water.

Once your music starts playing, the speakers will send colourful jets of water up and down in time with the beat.

Powered by USB, you can connect any device to the speakers with the included 3.5mm audio cable.

Available at www.amazon.com

Smart Planter Grow your kitchen herbs indoors and with style by using the Smart Planter.

It will let you know when your plant needs water with the help of the ‘flower’ indicator. You’ll always know when to water them and won’t be perplexed as to whether they are growing in a healthy way or not. The planter also uses an innovative cotton wick irrigation system which allows you to maintain proper moisture for your plant.

Available at www.amazon.com

Big Eye Wi-Fi Spy Tank This beast features a moveable camera and is controllable from an iOS or Android device. It creates its own Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing you to control it both indoors and out, plus it even has a night vision mode so you can carry on driving even when it’s dark. Not only that, but you can also use it as a drivable walkie-talkie that lets you record videos and upload photos via email or various social networks once they have been saved to your device.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 87

lifestylemusic

Happy Rhodes – Ectotrophia What’s the story?

Happy Rhodes is the definition of a cult artist. She’s a very private, New York-based singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, best known by most music fans as frontwoman for Security Project, an allstar supergroup (also including Trey Gunn, Jerry Marotta and Michael Cozzi) dedicated to the music of Peter Gabriel. Rhodes does enjoy a global fan base that has existed since the early ‘90s. They call themselves ‘ectophiles’, chosen from the title of Rhodes’ fourth album.

This 18-track set is compiled and remastered from four cassette releases cut when she was in her early 20s in 1986 and 1987.

Worth a listen?

Rhodes’ lyrics explicitly and dramatically chart her private depths.

Music was a salvation for her, and so most songs were written during her teens, a prolific period of intense loneliness and alienation, thanks to the bullies of the American schoolyard. As a result, some of them are indeed clumsy, clearly the mark of a young writer under the powerful sway of emotion, but that adds weight, too.

There is an unvarnished quality to them via the grain in her voice and wonderfully illustrative arrangements. Opener Oh the Drears, despite its gothic intro and title, is actually a gauzy, classically tinged pop song with a memorable hook. Where Do I Go, performed only on

Verdict: An insight into a musical enigma. synths, is more declamatory in its expressions of loss and confusion.

When the Rain Came Down, with its loops and angular electronics, criss-crosses terrain explored by her idol, Peter Gabriel.

Shorts

Bodega – Endless Scroll

77:78 – Jellies

With a happily scrappy sound, a snarky attitude, and hooks for days, Bodega make a case for themselves with their debut album, Endless Scroll. Their snappy tunes are built for sweaty dancefloors, the guitars have a gnarly bite and the vocals don’t let up. The energy Bodega play with and the punchy sound they get would be enough to make Endless Scroll worth hearing; when the often hilarious words, the main duo’s vocal prowess, and the huge hooks are added, the album becomes something really special.

Jellies is the musical equivalent of a summer read or comfort food; it doesn’t demand much of listeners, but it fills them with a warm, satisfied feeling just the same.

The mix of vintage late-night soul, cosmic dub, laid-back rock, clunky hip-hop, blues and no-frills psychedelia is blended together with a light touch by sure hands that leave plenty of air in the arrangements and allow the vocals to float gently above. The tempos tend towards a summery crawl, with a preponderance of ballads that set the mood and midtempo songs that sway and swing like leaves in a gentle breeze.

88 August 2018

DevilDriver – Outlaws ‘Til the End Vol. 1 DevilDriver’s eighth studio album is certainly the group’s most adventurous outing to date, but that’s not saying a whole lot, as DevilDriver have been cranking out shelfstable slabs of death-focused groove-metal for over two decades. Still, it’s fun hearing Dez Fafara and company pay tribute to their outlaw country heroes, especially when they allow themselves a bit of sonic wiggle room, as they do quite effectively on standouts like Hank Williams III’s Country Heroes and Stan Jones’ Ghost Riders in the Sky, the latter of which delivers the perfect blend of brooding fury and power metal cheese. www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylegames

Detroit: Become Human Verdict: One of the best games ever.

Rating:

What is it?

Detroit: Become Human is an adventure game in which the player dictates the story. The plot revolves around three androids: Kara, who escapes the owner she was serving to explore her newfound sentience and protect a young girl; Connor, whose job it is to hunt down sentient androids; and Markus, who devotes himself to releasing other androids from servitude. They may survive or perish depending on dialogue choices that shape the story as customised by the player.

Gameplay

scenarios before you execute them.

Graphics

Action sequences are generally executed using timed button presses, swoops of the thumbstick, and occasional motion control, which evoke the action you are performing on a case-by-case basis.

An android detective mode allows you to scan your environment to reconstruct crime scenes, and fast-forwarding and rewinding through these is a lot of fun, as is a new ability to ‘pre-construct’

The Crew 2

The Crew 2 captures the thrill of the American motorsports spirit in an open world. Enjoy unrestrained exploration on ground, sea and sky. From coast to coast, street and pro racers, off-road explorers and freestylers gather and compete in all kinds of disciplines.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Characters are certainly capable of non-verbal expressiveness. The level of detail you can see in their faces is astounding; facial hair, blemishes, freckles and moles are rendered in stunning detail, particularly in checkerboard 4K on the PS4 Pro. The animation is just as good; as characters hurry through the rain on a freezing night, hunched over and miserable, one could have been watching two humans from the side-streets.

Dark Souls Remastered

A spiritual successor to Demon’s Souls, the action RPG (role-playing game) Dark Souls is set in a rich, dark fantasy universe. Intense action within the dungeons, encounters with terrifying enemies and innovative online features combine for a unique gaming experience. At a time when the players come face to face with terrifying enemies and find new areas, the infallible system and reward challenge takes possession of everything to offer a sense of achievement without equal.

36 Fragments of Midnight

Midnight’s friends have lost their Star Fragments! Your task is to find them, and take them back, but it won’t be easy. In this procedurally generated platform game, you have to avoid deadly lasers, circular saws and spikes to collect all the Fragments and return them to their rightful owner.

August 2018 89

lifestyleapps

Apps Review BTM brings you the low-down on the latest and greatest apps on the market.

App: Prisma Rating: Verdict: Great fun for photo enthusiasts.

What is it?

Prisma is a photo filter app that’s unlike any other. Instead of tinting your photos, which any photo app can do, Prisma loads incredibly detailed filters, many mimicking famous artists, to create truly unique pictures.

The Good

The app has been updated to support video, and the most impressive thing about it is that all of these effects can be applied super quickly, so you can share your latest creation as soon as possible.

The Bad

Right now, as entrancing as they are, the resulting images are lowresolution at 1080x1080 pixels, much lower than the image input of your phone. In addition, no matter what aspect ratio your images are going in, they all come out square. And while that’s great for the Instagram crowd, some people want a choice.

App: Waze

Whether you’re a big driver or just going on a long road trip, you should check out Waze. The app knows how fast you are travelling on the road and redirects you around traffic mid-trip, ultimately shortening your commute. Waze tracks more than just traffic; it also alerts you to construction, accidents, red-light cameras, and even police ahead on your route.

90 August 2018

App: Magisto

Magisto makes your smartphone videos look like they were edited by a pro, with just a few seconds of work. The app takes your photos and videos and uses artificial intelligence to edit them together into videos you can share with friends and family. The video editor has a number of built-in effects as well as a music library. Finished creations can be shared instantly from within the app to social media or email. www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylewebsites

E R O M DONLINE! O ed

nform

VERDICT: A beautiful and vivid nostalgic trip.

Site: www.dearphotograph.com Rating: What is it?

A website that shows a collection of images all with one theme: taking an old favourite photograph and going back to the same spot from which it was taken, and taking another while holding the old photograph within the frame. Each photograph also has a dedication captioning. What you get is a small wormhole that brings the past into the present, taken all over the world by people willing to share their memories.

i omers g cust

Keepin

s image eos & your blog id v t s • Po pdate gs mit/ u in • Sub ge your list cial offers a n s a / ts pe • M iscoun date events d t s o • P & up mote • Pro to reviews ly • Rep d menus a lo p U •

The Good

Some photos seem sweet, some are nostalgic, some are full of regret, and some of the photos are giddy with the foolishness of youth. Whatever it is, it really stirs an emotional reaction which is incredible from such a simple, straightforward idea. If pictures are worth a thousand words, Dear Photograph makes them worth ten thousand.

The Bad

Browsing the website for too long could lead you to shed a few tears, which will either make you the ridicule of your office if you’re male, or ruin your make-up if you’re a female. It’ll also lead to a sharp decline in workplace productivity as you’ll be hooked.

www.biodigital.com

The BioDigital Human represents the most sophisticated, interactive, 3D virtual human body platform available. This medically accurate virtual body map allows users to explore detailed anatomy, fitness and health conditions, remove layers to visualise animated diseases’ progress, and virtually

take a tour of the human body. It can be used by educators, aspiring medical professionals, or just the generally curious alike.

www.manetas.com/pollock

Have you ever wanted to just splatter paint everywhere, purely because it’s fun? Now you can!

This website is perfect if you are having a really tedious day, or you www.bahrainthismonth.com

really just want to unwind and have some fun. At first, you may think that your computer isn’t loading the website, but it already has. The blank white screen is yours to have fun with. Move your mouse around to splatter paint, or left click to change the colour. Despite its simplicity, it’s surprisingly diverse and incredibly addictive.

ONLY- per month

BD99/73 17 813 777 Tel.: +9

thebhrg

www.theBHRG.com August 2018 91

lifestylemovies

Ant-Man and the Wasp Film: Ant-Man and

the Wasp Rating: Directed By: Peyton Reed Starring: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly,

Michael Douglas

The Plot

In the aftermath of Captain America: Civil War, Scott Lang grapples with the consequences of his choices as both a superhero and a father.

As he struggles to rebalance his home life with his responsibilities as Ant-Man, he’s confronted by Hope van Dyne and Dr Hank Pym with an urgent new mission. Scott must once again put on the suit and learn to fight alongside The Wasp as the team works together to uncover secrets from their past.

Worth Watching?

VERDICT: A hilarious adventure.

The first Ant-Man is arguably the lightest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies in both plot and tone, and the sequel has a similar playfulness. It wholeheartedly embraces the inherent ridiculousness of Scott’s powers and the predicaments he often finds himself in – mostly by staging some of the most inventive action scenes attempted in any movie franchise, not just Marvel’s.

Crazy Rich Asians

The story follows New Yorker Rachel Chu as she accompanies her long-time boyfriend, Nick Young, to his best friend’s wedding in Singapore. Nervous about meeting Nick’s family, Rachel is unprepared to learn that he has neglected to mention a few key details. It turns out that he is not only the scion of one of the country’s wealthiest families but also one of its most sought-after bachelors. Being on Nick’s arm puts a target on Rachel’s back, with jealous socialites and, worse, Nick’s own disapproving mother taking aim.

92 August 2018

Boasting some of the most creative action scenes and finelycalibrated comedy in the Marvel universe so far, Ant-Man and the Wasp doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it certainly knows how to make the ride even more fun. After the doom and gloom of Infinity War, this savvy sequel is a welcome change of pace, and a reminder that the MCU is malleable enough to tackle just about any genre and tone without losing its sense of identity.

The Meg

A deep-sea submersible – part of an international undersea observation programme – has been attacked by a massive creature, previously thought to be extinct, and now lies disabled at the bottom of the deepest trench in the Pacific with its crew trapped inside. With time running out, expert deep sea rescue diver Jonas Taylor is recruited by a visionary Chinese oceanographer, against the wishes of his daughter Suyin, to save the crew from this unstoppable threat: a pre-historic 75-foot-long shark known as the Megalodon.

Incredibles 2

In Incredibles 2, Helen is called on to lead a campaign to bring Supers back, while Bob navigates the day-to-day heroics of normal life at home with Violet, Dash and baby Jack-Jack, whose super powers are about to be discovered. Their mission is derailed, however, when a new villain emerges with a brilliant and dangerous plot that threatens everything. But the Parrs don’t shy away from a challenge, especially with Frozone by their side. That’s what makes this family so Incredible.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylebooks

lifestylebooks

Book Your Summer Holidays are all about relaxation. And what better way to chill than with a good book. Suzanne Nicholas has some novel suggestions for when you’re lounging by the pool catching some sun. Here’s to being both well red and well-read!

Take Me In

The Great Alone

An American Marriage

A new thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When a stranger saves the life of their young boy on holiday, a couple are willing to do anything to repay him – until their vacation is over and he still appears everywhere. What does he want and how long are they to be indebted to him?

Ernt Allbright, a former POW, comes home from the Vietnam War a changed man.

Following the loss of yet another job, he makes the impulsive decision to move his family to Alaska. This book will keep you up all night with a tale about love and loss, and the battle between man and nature.

Celestial and Roy have been married a year when Roy is found guilty of a crime he did not commit. Can their marriage stand the test of the accusations, loneliness and ugliness that comes with a criminal conviction? Or will it be torn apart by circumstances neither could have predicted?

Sabine Durrant

Census

Kristin Hannah

Brother

Tayari Jones

Snap

Jesse Ball

David Chariandy

Belinda Bauer

A story of parental love, free will and grief. A widower receives news from his doctor that he doesn’t have long to live and agonises over who will care for his adult son – a boy with Down syndrome. With lost hope, he decides to sign up as a census taker and see the country one last time with his son.

A novel that alternates between present-day and the early 1980s telling the story of two brothers growing up in a poor immigrant neighbourhood in Canada. A moving tale that explores culture shocks, race, family and identity, this is one book you have to cross off the reading list.

Eleven-year-old Jack and his two sisters sit in their car in the stifling summer heat, awaiting the return of their mother who never comes back. Will they ever know what happened to her, or rather, do they want to know? A crime novel written by a crime writing genius guaranteed to give you major chills.

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August 2018 93

lifestylebooks

The Immortalists Chloe Benjamin

So Much Life Left Over

The Gunners

The Mercy Seat

Louis de Bernières

Rebecca Kauffman

Elizabeth H Winthrop

If you knew the date of your death, how would you live your life? The Gold children sneak out to hear their fortunes from a travelling psychic who claims she can tell anyone the day they will die. A story that walks the line between fantasy and reality, The Immortalists follows the stories of the four siblings.

The author of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin brings you an emotional novel revolving around characters in the unsettled time between the world wars who intertwine to answer the question: “If you have been embroiled in a war in which you confidently expected to die, what are you supposed to do with so much life unexpectedly left over?”

Mikey Callahan reconnects with ‘The Gunners’, a group of childhood friends, after the suicide of one of their members.

Sally had once left them with no explanation and the group mourn her loss a second time while figuring out secrets she had harboured about the group and its members.

An 18-year-old man awaits his execution in a Louisiana jail cell for a crime many believe he did not commit. Moving between narrators, Winthrop explores race and justice and opens a critical eye to the death penalty in a tale taut with tension.

Days of Wonder

The Perfect Nanny Leila Slimani

Jojo Moyes

Still Me

The Female Persuasion

Every year on Hannah’s birthday, her father puts on a theatrical performance for his little girl who suffers from a heart condition that will end her life early. As the time comes, Hannah and her father both have something special planned for each other – something neither will ever forget.

Based on a true story, Slimani tells the tale of the ‘perfect’ nanny to the two young children of a working couple.

As the couple and the nanny become more and more interdependent, tensions rise.

The novel serves as a crucial warning of the cruelty caregivers can inflict.

The third book of the Me Before You trilogy, Still Me features Louisa Clark, an eccentric heroine, who moves to New York to make the most of her new experience. Torn between the Louisa that her new job demands and the Louisa she truly is, this is a story of selfdiscovery and living boldly.

Madly in love with her boyfriend and yet feeling that something is lacking, Greer Kadetsky meets a woman who will change her life and lead her down a path toward the future she envisioned for herself. Far from being an empowering feminist novel, it asks us to reflect on contemporary feminism.

Keith Stuart

94 August 2018

Meg Wolitzer

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bystander

Ashish & Meenakshi

Racatem & Ken

Art Exhibit

Sanah Kampani held an art exhibit entitled ‘In the Making’.

Mehak, Navneet, Sanah & Meenakshi

Mukesh & Harsha

Sarva, Sumana & Kiran

Helen & Sanah

Himanshu & Adity

Manaal & Shaeneez

Shveta, Meenakshi & Vandana

To view more images, scan the QR code

Welcoming Reception

Carolina & Amanda

Ronnie & Ali

HE Cécile Longe & Ryme

The Ritz-Carton, Bahrain, held a cocktail reception to welcome its new general manager, Bernard de Villèle.

HE Justin Siberell & Bernard

HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi and HE Cécile Longe

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Abdul Hai, Bernard & HE Domenico Bellato

Martin, Ekatarina & Simon

August 2018 95

lifestyletravel

KYRGYZSTAN Through A Lens

Intrepid traveller and photographer Sawsan Taher shares thoughts and pictures from her latest trip to a former Soviet republic that’s brimming with amazing scenery and friendly people.

K

yrgyzstan was one of several routes for the old Silk Road through the Tianshan and the Pamir-Altai Mountains. The Kyrgyz are a TurkicMongol people who live primarily in the mountainous regions of Central Asia, where their traditional livelihood was that of pastoral nomadism. In 1991, Kyrgyzstan declared independence from Moscow and the people have changed tremendously since then.

Although the country has been modernised to an extent, their culture is still greatly influenced by their nomadic heritage and agricultural livelihood.

My journey began once I had moved from the capital, Bishkek, towards Chon Kemin Valley. Travelling through, one cannot help but be captivated by its natural beauty and magnificent landscapes. To this day, the Kyrgyz are still a semi-nomadic people and maintain a co-dependent relationship with their horses.

Since the country is 90 per cent mountainous, horses are essential as a means of 96 August 2018

transportation. They are also utilised for various tasks such as sports, games and shepherding.

Horse meat is a staple protein eaten commonly throughout the country along with kymyz, a traditional Kyrgyz drink made from horse’s milk.

For two days, I stayed in a guesthouse in Karool-Dobo village and then later with a hospitable Kyrgyz family who opened their doors to visitors a few years ago. To truly immerse yourself within a new culture, one must communicate with locals. Living with a Kyrgyz family was an invaluable experience and I was fortunate enough to gain a broader perspective on their culture.

While there, I attended a buzkashi match.

The word literally means “goat grabbing” and buzkashi is the national sport of Kyrgyzstan. It’s similar to a game of polo; however, rather than playing with sticks and a ball, they use the carcass of a goat to drag and throw. A horse may be trained for up to five years before playing its first game.

Another unique and entertaining sport I

witnessed was kyz kummai which translates to “girl chasing”. It usually starts with a young man on horseback who waits at the starting line. A young woman, also mounted, starts her horse galloping behind him. When she passes, the young man may start his horse galloping.

The two race towards a finish line and if the man is able to catch up before the finish line, he may reach out to the woman and steal a kiss, which constitutes victory. However, if the woman reaches the finish line first, she turns around and chases the man and, if in range, she may beat him with her whip!

After my taste of national sport, I was keen for a taste of traditional food. A short visit to Tegirmenti village was arranged for me to meet a family who are well known for baking the traditional Kyrgyzstani bread. The smell and taste of freshly baked bread was an unforgettable treat for my palate.

In Karool-Dobo village, I spent some time with a housewife, Boroson, in her backyard while she was milking the cows. Her agrarian www.bahrainthismonth.com

roots were evident in her methodical way of taking care of the cattle and her daily schedule.

She starts early in the morning and finishes all her work by sunset. Albeit their simple lifestyle sounds idyllic during spring and summer, the people do face harsh winters.

While I was taking photos for Boroson, a few little girls approached me timidly but then with youthful exuberance. I assume they had heard from others that a stranger had come to their village and handed out sweets. Staring at me pensively at first, the moment I spoke the language of children and handed them candy, a broad devilish grin played upon their faces and they asked for their photos to be taken.

All around me, I couldn’t help but notice the unique headpieces of the men and women.

Every stitch was etched with heritage and tradition. The classical garb of the Kyrgyz men and women has remained unchanged for 700 years. Headdresses, sitting tight on the head and completely covering the hair, are an indispensable attribute of married women. They are decorated with various ornaments and www.bahrainthismonth.com

coloured threads. A turban of white material called an elechek is worn over the hat and it used to be unacceptable to venture outside without it. The most popular cap worn by Kyrgyz men everywhere is the kalpak, a traditional white felt hat with an upturned brim.

My next destination was Tepke village in the Issyk-Kul Region to visit a musical institute.

Kyrgyz music is most famous for how evocative it is of nature and life in the mountains. Many parents encourage their children to learn using their national instrument, the komuz, which is an ancient fretless stringed instrument used in Central Asian music. It is generally made from a single piece of wood and has three strings traditionally made out of gut, but often from fishing line in modern times. In the most common tunings the middle string is the highest in pitch.

I headed on to another amazing village, Jyrgalan, which truly has a rustic feel; brick and timber houses are scattered around with wooden barns appearing every now and then.

Cows, horses and goats wander from paddock to paddock while young kids play on the dirt

roads around the village. While discovering the area, I asked a man if I could take his photo. He invited us into his house. His wife, Sultanat, started preparing the dining table and, in no time, there was a variety of fresh jam, bread and butter, all homemade, laid out, not forgetting a fresh cup of the famous Kyrgyz chai. It was easy to communicate through our guide and I felt so welcomed into their home.

The guesthouse I stayed at was in the middle of a farm in a valley surrounded by mountains and run by the hospitable owners Emil and her husband. While I was enjoying the magnificent view from my window, I saw a man milking a horse. Although I had heard of this, I was still shocked to see it. The Kyrgyz food culture relies heavily on meat. Rice with meat was a dish I was offered for breakfast in Jyrgalan but I could not eat it early in the morning though generally I loved Kyrgyz cuisine.

The next morning, we visited the coal mine which is still operating in Jyrgalan. The village was established in 1964 to support mining during the Soviet period.

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lifestyletravel

In the afternoon, I was walking in the neighborhood when I saw a little boy playing near a door. I spoke to him and gave him a sweet. When his aunt saw me, I thought she was going to reprimand me for giving him chocolate, but, in fact, with a lovely smile, she said “Rahmat” which means thank you. She insisted I enter their house, and the entire family came to greet me. They were having a barbecue and invited me to join them. Honestly, I was worried about eating and asked if it was 98 August 2018

sheep or cow meat. The mother said “Halal”; I knew they were Muslim but I also knew that some families eat horse! They brought onions and shisleek and their tea. I sat with them in their garden and enjoyed the barbecue.

I was astounded as to how generous and kind the Kyrgyz people are — opening their door to a stranger and sharing their food and life with them.

The daughter-in-law of the family, Gulmira, could speak English and was translating. They www.bahrainthismonth.com

asked me many questions and wanted to know more about me.

Before returning to Bishkek, my last destination was Bokonbayevo which is well known for hunting with eagles and crafts such as making shyrdaks (rugs) and other felt products.

Talgar the ‘Eagle Man’ explained that hunting with the golden eagle is an ancient tradition that dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The capture, training and keeping of eagles is a highly ritualised activity, and the Kyrgyz are experts. Training eagles takes a lot of time — three to four years. It must be done by just one person and requires constant daily attention. Most of the birds, which can have a life expectancy of 40 years, are caught young,

hooded and placed in a cage. The eagles are trained to be able to distinguish human voices and obey only that of their master. When the eagle is almost adult, the trainer shows it the hides and furs of the animals it is to hunt.

Training continues until the birds become expert in killing their prey.

Later in the afternoon, I visited the Altyn Oimok NGO (Golden Thimble). This Kyrgyz crafts workshop produces shyrdaks and other traditional felt handicrafts. It employs more than 30 rural women and seeks to educate the next generation in traditional production. It was exciting to learn about the entire feltmaking process from pulling the wool to dyeing it, then crafting the designs. These products

are as rich in colour as they are in design and overall beauty, and each rug or textile reflects a living history of the country, the family and its creator. The Kyrgyz use felt handicrafts to adorn themselves and their homes with the spirit and history of their land. I left the workshop with a beautiful, handmade Kyrgyz felt souvenir.

Overall, I found the Kyrgyz people to be very polite and generous; their golden smiles radiated warmth and kindness. From their impeccable hospitality to their delicious cuisine and rich culture, my trip was truly an unforgettable experience and, most importantly, widened my perspective and restored my faith in the kindness of other people.

Scan the code to see more pictures.

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August 2018 99

Nourishing Your Wanderlust

lifestyletravel

With the long Eid al-Adha weekend just around the corner, if you haven’t begun thinking about where to spend a few days relaxing in-style, we suggest you start now.

We’ve compiled a list of destinations to help you get on top of your planning game.

Maldives

A bucket list destination for many, Maldives is home to exotic white sand beaches, turquoise waters and water bungalows, but you’re in for a surprise if you think that’s all Maldives has going for it. Crystal-clear, warm and inviting waters mean swimming with sharks, stingrays, seahorses and sea turtles among other beautiful aquatic creatures. On a dolphin excursion, you’re bound to see playful, twirling dolphins actively put on a show for you.

A world-class surfing spot, Maldivian waves encourage even amateur boarders to have a good time. Stay at Jumeirah Vittaveli and lazily enjoy the Instagram-worthy changing hues of the sky around sunset.

Frankfurt

As a business hub, while skyscrapers and swarms of men in suits might initially look somewhat restricting, there’s much Frankfurt has to offer as contradiction. Be a tourist to a T and tour the city on the Ebbelwei-Express with some famous apfelwein. If walking 100 August 2018

Maldives

suits your fancy, take a leisurely stroll around the Old Town, a whole district recreated as it was before the World Wars. As you try out independent cafés, also pop into Erzeugermarkt Konstablerwache, the state’s largest farmers’ market to marvel at local culinary specialities. Relish the comfort of traditional luxury at The Hotel Hessischer Hof.

London

With ultimate city feels, London has something to offer everyone. Tour Kensington Palace and marvel at its spectacular garden, boasting flowers galore during the summer. Witness the age-old Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. If you’re yet to understand the Shakespeare hype, watch an action-packed Elizabethan play at the Globe. Shop till you drop at Harrods and the West End. Indulge yourself in a chocolate-centred, Mediterranean-inspired afternoon tea at The May Fair Hotel’s May Fair Kitchen.

Stay at the Grosvenor House Suites by Jumeirah Living to make the most of the

Frankfurt

London

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dubai

Shanghai

Mayfair experience.

Dubai

If you’re looking for a nearby destination to decrease travelling time, where better to go than Dubai? A welcome escape from the harsh Middle Eastern summer, a trip to Ski Dubai should be your first stop. Or if you’d rather the snow come to you, drop your bags off at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel and visit its Talise Ottoman Spa which boasts state-of-the-art snow rooms. If you’ve tired of malls, and want something a bit more adventurous, go for an unforgettable desert safari or treat your inner child to a collection of 30 water rides and play areas at Wild Wadi Water Park.

Shanghai

Well worth the long journey, Shanghai offers you a completely new culture. Running alongside the Huangpu River, the Bund is a waterfront walk almost a mile long which we recommend taking at night, if only because the panoramic night view is simply amazing. During

Salalah

your stay, don’t miss out on the experience of trying different Chinese teas, including oolong and longjing green tea. Adding to China’s uniqueness is its food culture, scallion pancakes, eel noodles and soup dumplings (of course!) are among Shanghai’s must-try eats.

Ride a Shanghai subway, hang out at People’s Square and let modern Chinese literature educate you at Lu Xun Park. Enjoy luxurious comfort at Jing An Shangri-La hotel.

Al Mughsail Blowholes. While the rest of the Gulf endures the summer heat, Salalah sees a drop in temperature from July and awaited rains which welcome the the Salalah Festival, which includes Omani traditional and cultural shows.

Enjoy a boat trip in a classic Omani boat. Stay at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara and immerse yourself in extravagance.

Sri Lanka

With both Gulf Air and Azerbaijan Airlines now flying direct to the capital of Azerbaijan, why not consider Baku for your short stay? Have a look from the observatory deck of the iconic skyscrapers, Flame Towers. Explore the combination of various architectural styles throughout Baku. Walk around glamorous Nizami Street, taking in its photogenic environment. Try the Azeri treat, tea with strawberry jam, which sounds risky until you discover that it’s jaw-droppingly good! Beluga caviar from the Caspian Sea is also a treasure here. Stay at the Four Seasons Hotel, perched along the waterfront in central Baku, perfect for lounging your weekend away.

Sri Lanka, a famous holiday destination, has earned every good review it has received. Book a relaxing stay in a cosy bungalow in cool Bandarawela or, if you desire a primarily tropical, seaside vacation, sojourn at Jetwing Blue, Negombo. Hike Adam’s Peak at midday to reach the summit in time for a breathtaking sunrise the next morning. Take the scenic train from cultural Kandy to elegant Ella. Visit Chill Café in Ella for its signature lamprais. Make your way to Jaffna, off the beaten path, to experience Sri Lankan Tamil tradition and culture. Consider spending a day at Galle Fort, the 18th century Dutch headquarters now converted, yet retaining its past beauty.

Baku

Baku

Salalah

Capital of Oman’s Dhofar province, Salalah is comparably different to the predominantly arid rest of the Middle East. Boasting natural scenery, Salalah is a wonderful getaway this upcoming long weekend. Be a spectator at the Sri Lanka

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August 2018 101

bystander

Birthday Party

On the occasion of her 50th Birthday, Silvia invited friends to her residence in Saar. The evening was lively, entertained by DJ Youssef, #OnewithMagic magician Nabeel and guitarist Hazem Al-Rawas.

Humbert & Silvia

Humbert, Silvia, Frederic &Steve

Silvia 50th Birthday Cake

Silvia and guests

Eric, Kirk, Vendy, Humbert, Hubertus, Alexandra, Frieda, Silvia, Maximiliane, Christophe & Sandra

Iman, Humbert, Silvia & Salah

Roula, Humbert, Silvia & Fadi

Silvia, Perwin & HE Alfred Simms-Protz

Guests at dinner

Vendy, Silvia, Frieda & Sandra

102 August 2018

Silvia, Qays & Karina

Mona, Adel & Steve

Roula, Sandra, Vendy, Silvia, Kamila & Perwin

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bystander Other Events

The United Nations Information Centre for Gulf States with the cooperation of Mashq Gallery, organised an event to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s International day and his centenary.

City Centre Bahrain announced the first winner of grand prize of BD 5,000 in mall gift cards, Moozah Alqasami, during the mall’s World Cup campaign.

Nepresso invited the media to its launch of two limited edition coffees, Ispirazione Salentina and Ispirazione Shakerato, at its boutique in City Centre Bahrain.

Hemant Joshi conducted a memory enhancement workshop.

CrediMax announced its partnership with Al Muntazah Markets to provide MaxWallet payment solutions to its customers.

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), represented by the Handicrafts Directorate, distributed certificates to its ‘Glass Arts – Level 2’ workshop participants.

Al Hawaj hosted a special football night for the 2018 FIFA World Cup at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran, and wife Jihan, hosted a farewell lunch for German Ambassador, HE Alfred Simms-Protz, and wife Perwin, at The Gulf Hotel.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2018 103

lifestyletarotscope

LEO

July 23 – August 22 August sees you stretched as you battle to meet your commitments and perhaps start to regret one or two impetuous buys from earlier in the year. Now is the time to tighten those purse strings and resist the temptations that may appear before you in the next few weeks. Romantically, you could be at a loose end as you try to pick up the pieces of your life following a temporary separation. However, take heart from the fact that, long term, there is still hope.

Card of the Month —Six of Swords For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

SCORPIO October 23 – November 21 Solitude and rest – these are the two factors most prominent in your reading for August – and if you feel a little tired or ‘stressed out’ then a break from the pressures of life may be just what is required. Certain events both at home and work will come to a head around the 19th, and although you will deal competently and successfully with both, the aftermath leaves you looking for a way to re-boost your engines. You need to think more about taking time out for yourself.

Card of the Month — Nine of Wands

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 This month will see temptation put in your way, probably with financial overtones. When it comes, you must seriously consider your course of action. Giving in will see you become embroiled in a spiral that can only lead to further complications.

If you get too deeply involved, there will be no turning back. The warning signs will appear to you as a man in a grey suit with a shock of blonde hair, promising opportunities that will seem too good to be true.

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 19 There is a face in the crowd that has an interested eye on certain Capricorns out there this month and it could point towards relationships and a major change in how your love life develops in August and way beyond that. The Ten of Wands is a card that speaks of hesitation and insecurities – both flaws that you should seek to eradicate from your make-up if you stand any hope of making a success of matters emotional for the future. Bolster that inner strength and you will be fine.

Card of the Month — Ten of Wands

AQUARIUS January 20 – February 18 VIRGO August 23 – September 22 Travel is the number one feature of your reading this month and you will be contemplating a move overseas, probably in connection with work, although a family-related matter might also have some bearing on a move. If you are being offered a role within a newly formed company, do not ‘burn all your bridges behind you’ since there are no certainties of a virgin venture being successful and you never know when you might need your friends.

Card of the Month — Five of Wands

LIBRA September 23 – October 22 The Magician this month injects a note of inspiration into your life and draws the more creative side of your personality to the fore. Grasp this period of potential productivity with two hands because you can turn it to your advantage in the workplace. August will see you set a challenging task that may call for you to exercise your skills to the maximum as you get a long-term project off the ground. It will be hard work but worthwhile in the end.

Card of the Month — The Magician 104 August 2018

August sees you having to face up to a stern lesson in humility and you could meet your match in an adversary at work. A conflict will initially arise through a disagreement over a financial issue and will then escalate. You could even be forced to seek legal advice. Your patience will be strained and edgy but you should try not to take out your frustrations on family or friends. The solution to your problem may very well be to swallow your pride and accept the situation.

Card of the Month — Seven of Pentacles

PISCES February 19 – March 20 Your final moment of triumph in a longstanding dispute is delivered in a fashion even you could not have imagined and you will be celebrating a satisfactory victory. A useful ally will make him or herself available to you at the start and this person will go a long way to assisting you in sealing the lid on the episode. On a different note, you might incur a small injury through items left carelessly about the house and you will be forced to take some time off work because of it.

Card of the Month — Nine of Pentacles www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyleadvertisersindex ARIES March 21 – April 19 Whilst many other areas of your life have now found balance and direction, emotionally you are still in very uncertain waters, with a loved one struggling to make the right noises around long-term commitment. You clearly can’t force the issue but it would be wise to leave matters unresolved, especially as your mind is occupied with little else outside this issue. On the home front, a loved one could unexpectedly return nursing their pride and looking for help after a foolish decision has left them in hot water!

Card of the Month — Six of Cups

TAURUS April 20 – May 20 Your financial successes from last month will continue this August and you could see a big pay-out come your way as a long-term project finally reaps rewards. However, don’t rest on your laurels; keep the momentum going because there are still more opportunities to exploit. Your sign is less about the money and more about the freedom that money brings. You like consistency but you also love being yourself, and to realise that ambition you need to remain in control.

Card of the Month — Eight of Pentacles

Fashion & Footwear Emporio Armani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

Motoring Hotels & Serviced

A secret concerning money will suddenly come out into the open and bring a measure of controversy into your life. You may discover that a friend you thought could be trusted has spoken behind your back and put the spark to the resulting fire. If someone has lent you money and they did not want the gesture exposed, then you may find yourself falling out when the matter becomes common knowledge. The real lesson to be learned here is be careful who you confide in.

Card of the Month — Four of Pentacles

JAC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Residences Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 19

Others

Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area . . . . . 29

Bahrain Cinema Company (Cineco) . 39

Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Berlitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Mercure Grand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy

Park Regis Lotus Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Kishore Kumar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Lulu International Exchange . . . . . . . 39

Jewellery & Watches

GEMINI May 21 – June 20

Middle East Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . 13, 47

MAF Investments Bahrain (Carrefour) 8

Liali Jewellery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Titan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Restaurants & Cafés JJ’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Medical & Dental

Show Shha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Services

Talabat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . 4

The Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . 69

CANCER June 21 – July 22 The collapse of a relationship sees you in a weakened emotional state and you will find yourself wishing that you could just close the door on the world and forget about everything. There is the possibility that you may even be considering moving house as a consequence of this break-up, and a small place on the seashore may be a favourite. On a slightly different note, an individual who has been opposing you in some manner concerning property will find their efforts to be in vain.

Card of the Month — King of Pentacles

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mila Kunis

Daniel Radcliffe

Jennifer Lawrence

FAMOUS LEO THIS MONTH

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets

All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from Red House Marketing, 17 813-777 or email: bystander@redhousemarketing.com.

August 2018 105

lifestylewinwin Bahrain This Month gives three lucky readers the chance to win vouchers worth BD50, BD30 or BD20 for Joz Salon & Spa. To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions.

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10

Who got it right?

Where have the new Mangrove Tours been launched? ______________________________________________

Bahrain This Month received 105 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to the winner:

Who designed the revamped Hall of Graves at Bahrain National Museum? ______________________________________________

Winner : Rosemarie Pascua

Which Italian classic will show at La Fontaine’s movie night? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

Ad Seek:

2. Al-Nawares (Seagulls) Cultural Troupe

Bahrain

3. Lucas & Steve

2. Carrefour

4. Rim Jalali

3. Technal/Technal Middle

5. Saturday

East

6. 2012

4. Sports Bay Bahrain/Coral

7. Adliya

Bay Resort

1. Malaysia

When is Indian Independence Day? ______________________________________________ What is the name of Kishore Kumar’s kart-racer son? ______________________________________________

1. Cavallo/Cavallo Club

8. Taycan 9. AMG GT S Roadster

Where did Bill Grieve have his big Jeep experience? ______________________________________________

10. 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8

Where did the Nissan GT-R50 make its world debut? ______________________________________________

Name:

What’s the name of the new restaurant at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa? ______________________________________________

Telephone:

Address:

Email:

What’s the name of this month’s Hidden Gem? ______________________________________________

CPR: Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Which country did Sawsan Taher visit?

AD Seek

This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of Bahrain This Month. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

2. HAPPY. 1.

CHOOSE HEALTHY. CHOOSE 106 August 2018

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4. www.bahrainthismonth.com