Bahrain This Month February 2018

MOTORING | TRAVEL | DOWNTIME

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ky-Mani Marley Exclusive!

Interviews

Happenings

- Justin Siberell US Ambassador - Jorge Sebastiao Cyber Security and Blockchain Expert - David McGoldrick Talking Motors - Mahmoud Badawy Leading the Online Food Ordering Industry

• Spartan Race • Dreamland Expo • Bahrain International Garden Show • Chinese New Year Dragon Boating Race

Valentine’s Special!

The Best Gifts and Dining Options

February 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 2

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

A VALENTINE’S ROMANCE UNVEILS Love and romance fill the air as Cupid comes to town. On February 14, a true night of romance beckons as our award-winning restaurants dim the lights for a romantic setting for two. Greeted with a rose and warm Ritz-Carlton smile, guests can choose from a 5-course menu at Cantina Kahlo for a signature Mexican affair. For candlelit dinners overlooking the sea, La Plage sets the scene for romantic diners on the Seabreeze veranda or the option of the Private Island where 5-courses excite the pallet. Primavera and Plums also arouse the senses with 4-courses of savory dishes and signature service for a perfect night of tasteful indulgence. For afternoon tea lovers, Lobby Lounge celebrates love with a special “You are my cup of tea" menu including a mini-Valentine's cake for two. Exclusive this Valentine’s Day, guests can enchant their special loved one with a limited-edition “Romeo & Juliet” Valentine’s cake, available on pre-order from February 1-7 at the Ritz Gourmet Lounge.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain | 1758 6499 | rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ritzcarlton.com

Dress your watch RAYMOND WEIL creates a variation on the shine watch inspired by the world of ballet. A symbol of freedom, elegance and movement, the timepiece asserts its character as a true performer through the versatility of two interchangeable straps crafted in leather. A jewelry watch representing a perfect ally for women and naturally adapting to their style and their desires.

Join the discussion #DressYourWatch

Special Edition - shine

Issue 246

Contents February 2018 COVER STORY Like Father, Like Son

38

Ky-Mani Marley, son of legendary Bob Marley, speaks candidly to BTM in an exclusive interview ahead of his visit to the island.

HAPPENINGS

18

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of February 2018: 16

Shop Till You Drop

Calendar of events for Shop Bahrain.

18

Major Expo Returns!

The Gulf Industry Fair 2018 will focus on industrial development and innovation.

20

Time to Tackle

The grand opening of Cobra Fitness Bahrain.

22 Spooky

Goings On

Major mall hosts Ghostbusters Activity Zone.

26

32

24 Valentine’s

Bublé

The Dilmun Club to host a Michael Bublé tribute.

26 Bahrain

in Bloom

The highly anticipated Garden Show returns.

28 Cultural

Capers

The annual Spring of Culture festival begins.

30 Something

Wicked This Way Comes

S4K’s musical adaptation of Macbeth comes to Bahrain.

AFTER DARK

32 Prepare

34

for Take Off

Willy William performs live at Apollo Club Lounge.

34 Carnival

36

Time

Brazilian-style carnival fun at Meisei.

36

INTERVIEWS More Than 100 Years of Friendship

The US Ambassador to Bahrain, HE Justin Siberell, on bilateral relations.

40

42 Bystander This issue’s Bystander pages captured major happenings on the island such as the Indian embassy’s Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2018 and the Mercure Grand Hotel Seef’s Turkish festival, among others. Our snappers were also seen at various gatherings, including New Year’s Eve parties, birthday celebrations and openings. Check it out to see if you made the cut!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

40

Betting on Bitcoin

Jorge Sebastiao talks about bitcoin’s recent hype and the future of the cryptocurrency.

42

A Green Extravaganza

Her Excellency Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa gives a sneak preview of the upcoming annual garden show.

44

Cardless Payment Options

B Chandrasekhar explains his company’s services and the latest fintech innovations.

46

Hungry for Success

Mahmoud Badawy outlines Talabat’s journey in the online food ordering industry.

February 2018 3

Issue 246

Contents February 2018 Motoring 49

My Life in Cars

BTM’s motoring correspondent, Dick Potter, shares his passion for motors.

50-51 Talking

50

Motors

David McGoldrick chats about his new role as BMW Group GM and future plans.

52-53 Motoring

Bites

BTM brings you the latest news from the motoring world on the island.

Downtime 54-55 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town

56 Music: Top tunes Games: The hot games of the month 58 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 59 Apps: Essential apps 60 Movies: New releases

57 Computer

54

72

Valentine’s Feature 64-85

The editor’s choice of gifts for this special occasion and a round-up of the best venues to spend Valentine’s Day with your loved one.

Dining 87

A Taste of the Ocean

Liz O’Reilly reviews the culinary offerings of La Mer at Sofitel Bahrain.

88

Fit to Feast On

Behnaz Sanjana tastes the new healthier choices on Lumee’s menu.

90

81

88

A New Favourite

Check out Coral Bay Resort’s latest dining option.

92

A Striking Culinary Encounter

Ruka offers a fantastic Japanese fine-dining experience.

95-96

Table Hopping

Showcase What’s New: Must-have products 98-103 Marketplace: Latest products and services 104-105 Business Bites 97

Travel 97

60

106-107

Weekend Break ­— Tbilisi

Regulars 110 Tarotscope

AD Index 112 WIN WIN 111

57 www.bahrainthismonth.com

64 February 2018 5

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month February 2018

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Editor Apple Sharma Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Dick Potter Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel

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

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) 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 2005-2014 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.

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

COVER Cover Picture:

Ky-Mani Marley George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

MOTORING | TRAVEL | DOWNTIME

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ky-Mani Marley Exclusive!

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide Interviews

Happenings

- Justin Siberell US Ambassador - Jorge Sebastiao Cyber Security and Blockchain Expert - David McGoldrick Talking Motors - Mahmoud Badawy Leading the Online Food Ordering Industry

• Spartan Race • Dreamland Expo • Bahrain International Garden Show • Chinese New Year Dragon Boating Race

Valentine’s Special!

The Best Gifts and Dining Options

February 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 2

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Welcome to February, the month of love, if you like that sort of thing. We at BTM do, and in this month’s issue you will find gift ideas to help win the object of your affections as well as a comprehensive round-up of Valentine’s dining offers to help you decide where to spend the most romantic night of the year.

If, however, you’re not in the mood for love, our Happenings section, as always, has plenty of alternatives. From the Bahrain debut of our cover star Ky-Mani Marley, son of reggae icon Bob, to details of ongoing Shop Bahrain events, the return of Bahrain International Garden Show (BIGS), the launch of the annual Spring of Culture Festival, the Dreamland Expo for gaming enthusiasts and the Spartan Race for hardcore fitness fans. There are also plenty of nightlife options with international DJ appearances across the island, the BSPCA fundraising ball and opportunities to see some of Bahrain’s favourite live bands.

In our interview section, we introduce the new US Ambassador, His Excellency Justin Siberell, who sees great options for business and cultural cooperation. Shaikha Maram gives details of what to expect at this year’s BIGS. And Apple Sharma chats to cyber security and blockchain expert Jorge Sebastiao to get the lowdown on the cryptocurrency that’s taking the world by storm – if you’ve ever wondered what all the fuss is about, this is your chance to find out.

Our regular Dining section includes reviews from both the Mövenpick’s fondue night and Sofitel’s excellent fish restaurant La Mer, where Liz O’Reilly got a sneak peek at the Valentine’s menu. There’s also info on two new restaurant openings as well as our regular roundup of news and promotions from across the Kingdom’s dining sector.

You can catch up with motoring and business news and, as always, make sure to check out the Downtime section for the latest music, film and game releases.

Like what you see in the magazine? Then visit our revamped website at bahrainthismonth.com to see more including a huge selection of pictures from our ever-popular Bystander section.

However you choose to spend February, Bahrain This Month is always your guide to a great way of life.

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Connect with Bahrain This Month: Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

Nightlife

February 2018 7

bystander

Suresh & Ranjit

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas The Indian Embassy organised an event to celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas at its premises.

Raj Damani, HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Mohammed Dadabhai & Bhagvan

P K Chowdhury & Soman Baby

Khursheed & Anand

R Pillai, Madan & Arun

Sudeer

Neyran, Hazal & Alchin

Anil & B Ramani

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & Wani

Turkish Festival Mercure Grand Hotel Seef held a Turkish Festival at Neyran restaurant.

Yazer Baha & Mohammed Jassim Al Zayani

HE Vagif Garaev, HE Kadri Al Sayeh & HE Kiyoshi Asako

8 February 2018

Ayten & Wani

Sabahat, Nahed & Yunus

Perwin, Fouzia & Amal

Marianne & Mehmet

www.bahrainthismonth.com

LUIGI’S

SINCE 2003

bystander

New Year’s Eve Parties 2018

Smrithi, Kavya, Dheepth & Yibalic

Al Safir Hotel and Tower Ali, Hamad, Asha & Shantharam

Apollo Crew

Kristina, Katrina & Inga

Indranil & Sangita

Wayne

Maria & Darina

Antwan

Hasan, Hilal & Faisal

Ebrahim, VJ MP3 & Shantharam

Faisal, Vigaesh & Shyam

Anjana, Siddharth & Sregith

Coral Bay Sujit, Komal, Sapna & Harish

10 February 2018

Syed & Nan

Sumaiya & Sameer

Fariha & Sohail

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New Year’s Eve Parties 2018

Jo, Leo, Aidan & Jon

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Zoukari, Youssef, Josie, Dj Mysterioo Arif & Mohamed

Joel, Melissa, Brice & Graziella

Leo, Abdulla, Ali & Ahmad

Gulf Hotel

Lipe, Cristel, Famfi & Pri

Gordon & Yiqou

Lisa & Carl

Maik, Rachael, Jill, Megan & Garfield

Julie & Gavin

Cliona, Emily & Lauren

Paudie & Paddy

Savi, Joann & Jane

12 February 2018

Scott, Liz & Barry

Ivana & Vatroszav

Alina

Gitta & Harry

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New Year’s Eve Parties 2018

Catherine & Natalie

Amanda & Caroline

Dena & Juan

Isa & Shaima

Rolf & Caroline

Sebstian & Juana

Pregith & Tanu

Zarina & Muien

Jessica & Anna

Pamela & Jesse

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Miller, Angela, Irine & Javi

Nada, Haya & Reem

Mehdi & Ali

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Papitha, Sabitha, Kirthi, Mimi, Aarav & Aakash

Chloe, Colette, Alicia & Ashley

14 February 2018

Pregith, Alexander, Pappan, Geetha & Tanu

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HAPPENINGS

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Dream On, p18

Major Expo Returns!, p20

Shop Till You Drop Ongoing till February 10 | Shop Bahrain | Various The ‘Shop Bahrain’ festival not only promises bargains galore, there’s also entertainment for the whole family at malls and other venues across the island: • Mr Will & Mrs Kate Date: Ongoing-February 10 Location: Seef Mall, Muharraq Time: 5pm, 7pm and 9pm • Crystal Challenge Date: Ongoing-February 10 (during weekends) Location: The Bahrain Mall Time: 4pm-10pm • Musical Exhibition Date: Ongoing-February 10 (during weekends) Location: The AvenuesTime: 10am to midnight • Mirror House Date: Ongoing-February 10 Location: Dragon City Time: 4pm-10pm • Snakes & Ladders

Date: Ongoing-February 10 Location: Yateem Centre Time: 4pm-10pm • Winter Wonderland Date: Ongoing-February 18 Location: Al Aali Shopping Complex Time: Weekdays: 4pm-10pm, Weekends: 4pm to midnight • Connect Four Date: Ongoing-February 10 Location: El Mercado Time: 4pm-10pm • Giant Ludo Date: Ongoing-February 10 Location: Saar Mall Time: 4.30pm-10pm • Camping Experience Date: Ongoing-February 10 Location: Saar Mall Time: 4.30pm-10pm • Traditional Game Tournament Date: February 2-3 Location: Bab Al Bahrain Mall Time: 4pm-10pm

Art In Focus Bahrain In Bloom, p28

February 1-March 31 | Life Journey Exhibition | La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

Carnival Time, p34

One for art lovers. Accomplished artist Fereshte Shishine has studied with various masters and has a degree from the Academy of Fine Arts in Tehran.

As a youngster, she enjoyed detailed work and, in particular, the poetry and intricacy of Persian miniatures. She later developed her skills in still-life, portrait, landscape and etching. Her paintings are easily recognised by her deep appreciation for colour composition, sharp focus on light and her unique attention to particular details. A common characteristic of most of her pieces is the accidental presence of draperies and delicately knitted fabrics somewhere on the canvas. The exhibit opens on February 1 at 6pm, followed by dinner and a live jazz performance by Groove Souq at 8pm, priced at BD30+.

Call 17 230-123.

Stop The Bullying View more info online

16 February 2018

February 1-April 26 | Naseem Initiative In a bid to tackle an issue affecting many schoolchildren, the Bahraini Youth Forum Society (BYFS) is bringing the anti-bullying issue to light with its fourth ‘Naseem Initiative’ project titled ‘When You Hurt’. The group will highlight the subject by conducting a study as well as art and awareness campaigns over the coming months.

There will be roadshows and awareness corners at selected schools, including provision of creative awareness materials that can be easily communicated to young people and used as a reference by them later on. This will also include an art competition where students will be create a painting about bullying, and there will be an award for best artwork. Separate awareness sessions for parents will be organised as well. byfs.org/ www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

Time To Tackle

February 2 | Grand Opening and Grappling Contest |

Dream On

February 2-3 | Dreamland Expo | Bahrain

Cobra Fitness Bahrain

The launch of this new fitness centre will see all comers welcomed to try their arm in a no-gi grappling contest running over two days. Weight categories range from 65kg to 95+kg and matches will be won by submission in a 10-minute time limit – with overtime or judges’ decision if there is no submission. Entry is closed but it should be a good one to watch and get an idea of what the venue offers.

Call 33 123-884.

Searching For Art February 7-28 | The Wanderers Exhibitionn,

by Ali Merza | Art Centre In Wanderers, artist Ali Hussain Mirza, winner of the Al Dana Award at this year’s 44th Annual Fine Arts Exhibition, touches on the state of searching which mankind struggles with, whether within himself or his environment, and the convictions that are made and that change between the search process and lived experiences.

Call 17 298-777.

International Circuit

A major gaming and esports event featuring tournaments with a total prize value of USD50,000!

Activities include a gaming league, cosplay competition, workshops, carnival games, live entertainment and a car show.

There will be tournaments in: Overwatch, League of Legends, FIFA 18, Rocket League, Clash Royale, Call Of Duty WWII, Hearthstone, Tekken 7 and Rainbow 6. Prizes include, gold, silver and bronze medals, trophies and more.

As well as being a fun, skills-development event, Dreamland also aims to encourage gamers to advance and exploit their skills to enter the gaming industry. And there are workshops aimed to inspire the audience to turn their dreams into a career.

And, alongside the tournaments, the event will also exhibit unreleased games giving attendees the chance for pre-launch experience.

For cosplayers, there will be an award for best costume. And other activities include, live entertainment, arcade games, virtual reality, carnival games, car show, artists’ alley, shop and more. The event will take place at Bahrain International Circuit on February 2-3. Tickets are available at McDonald’s stores across the island. visit www. dreamlandexpo.com.

Pet Rescue

February 6, Animal Reiki | demo and workshop | Saar Kennels

As part of the World Animal Reiki Day Week, join for a free introductory talk about how animal reiki can help your pets stay healthy and help when they are unwell.

Dog session: 10.15-11.45am intro talk and group session for dogs (max 10) and their owners.

Cat Session: 2-4pm mini sessions exclusively for cats (max eight).

While the talk and sessions are free, a minimum donation of BD5 is requested. All donations in their entirety will go towards the TNR initiative of Four Paws Bahrain Clinic.

Register in advance to confirm your spot for the free group and mini sessions, as slots are limited.

Pets must be fully vaccinated, with proof of vaccination; they must also be free from fleas and ticks and treated. No ill pets who’ve been diagnosed with contagious diseases in the last three months. No pets that have recently (within the last two months) been adopted/purchased and have not been tested and found to be free from parvovirus and other contagious diseases. No aggressive pets.

Book before February 5, as spaces are limited.

Call Tejas 36 557-120.

18 February 2018

When? Ongoing till June 30 Event? Al Fann, Art from the Islamic Civilisation Venue? Bahrain National Museum An exhibition showing the great and multifaceted nature of Islamic culture through the spectacular al-Sabah collection from Kuwait.

E Call 17 298-777.

When? Ongoing till September 20 Event? The Stamp Seal: Hallmark of Dilmun an its Hidden Art Venue? Bahrain National Museum An exhibition tracing the importance of Dilmun as a trading and cultural entity explored through the intricate seals which were part of daily life.

E Call 17 298-777.

When? Ongoing till March 7 Event? 44th Annual Fine Arts Exhibition Venue? Arad Fort Annual exhibition celebrating the creativity and ingenuity of the Kingdom’s artistic community.

E Visit www.culture.gov.bh When? Ongoing till March 20 Event? Between Muharraq and Seville Venue? Bahrain National Museum A collaboration between Bahraini artist Ebrahim Bussad and Spain-based Orientalist artist Elisabeth Bolza creating an artistic dialogue connecting east and west.

E Call 17 298-777.

When? Ongoing till February 10 Event? Shop Bahrain Venue? Various E Visit www.shopbahrain.com When? February 1-March 31 Event? Life Journey Exhibition Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123.

When? February 1-April 26 Event? Naseem Initiative Project Venue? Various E Visit www.byfs.org When? February 1-3 Event? Ayadi Relief Streat Food Festival Venue? Marassi Beach Bahraini youth-driven organisation presents its third annual festival offering up a range of different cuisines.

E Visit www.ayadirelief.org www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings

Major Expo Returns!

February 6-8 | Gulf Industry Fair 2018 | Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

The GCC’s annual industrial event, Gulf Industry Fair (GIF) will be held from February 6 to 8, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister of Bahrain.

Organised by Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (HCE), the 2018 edition of GIF will focus on industrial development and innovation. It carries the strategic support of Aluminum Bahrain (Alba), Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco), the National Oil and Gas Authority (Noga) and Bahrain Industrial Wharf. The industrial facilities sector is championed by Majaal.

“Despite a regional economic slowdown caused by low oil prices in 2017, ongoing investment in the GCC’s industrial infrastructure remains strong,” says HCE managing director Jubran Abdulrahman. “Notably, the announcement of Saudi Arabia’s long-term 2030 Vision blueprint is likely to be a key driver of the Gulf’s industrial ambitions in the coming years, as the region’s biggest economy accelerates diversification efforts.”

GIF has established itself as the exclusively dedicated industrial products and services expo for the Northern Gulf and Saudi Arabia. The exhibition is an annual celebration of the industrial drivers of growth in the GCC’s economies. It promotes the key business segments of Aluminum, Industrial Processes and Manufacturing; Industrial Metals (Steel & Alloys); Energy & Environmental Protection; Industrial Facilities; Ports & Maritime Industries; Training for Industry; and Fire, Safety & Security.

Innovative products showcased at GIF include tooling, solar energy, smart technology, robotics, floating facilities, aluminium wheels, lighting pole valves, specialised industrial paints and coatings and compressors.

This year’s edition will also host the first Solar Utilities Network (SUN), which will be inaugurated by Abdulhussain Mirza, the Minister of Electricity and Water (EWA).

“Industrial development will require energy to fuel this growth,” says HCE exhibition director Ahmed Suleiman. “Today, energy requirements are not just about cost-effective power generation but also environmental concerns with renewable and greener energy. Solar power in the Gulf is becoming a viable option economically, which offers tremendous opportunities for businesses in technology supply and reskilling of the work force.”

The expo offers exhibiting companies direct access to a dynamic multi20 February 2018

billion-dollar industrial marketplace and the opportunity to showcase their products and services to a targeted B2B audience consisting of procurement managers, industrialists, purchasers, consultants and decision-makers from the region and internationally.

“The SUN event is an important element for GIF in creating an exchange of knowledge on solar and renewable technology,” adds Ahmed. “The forum will focus on the challenges and opportunities of solar, including PV storage, solar power generation policies of the government, energy storage and workforce skilling.”

GIF 2018 will host industry leaders showcasing their products directly or through their distributors in the region, which include Audi Transformers, Al Ahleia Switchgear, METABO, Kohler, Molex, Rockwell Automation, Bahrain Pack and Midal Cables.

“We are grateful for the unwavering support of the Prime Minister, HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, in helping us establish Gulf Industry Fair as the go-to exhibition for companies operating in the Northern Gulf’s expanding industrial markets,” says Jubran. “We look forward to providing the ultimate networking, knowledge-sharing and deal-making platform for all companies involved in the industrial sectors.”

Visit www.gulfindustryfair.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

Spooky Goings On

February 7-10 | Ghostbusters Activity Zone | City Centre Bahrain

The island’s biggest mall is going all-out for Shop Bahrain, with thrills guaranteed at the Central Galleria where youngsters can join in lots of scary fun Ghostbusters-themed activities as well as catching one of the four daily 20-minute stage shows featuring their favourite Hotel Transylvania characters, all promising to keep them entertained.

Call 17 177-771.

Furry Fundraiser

February 9 | BSPCA Valentine’s Ball | InterContinental Regency Bahrain

Enjoy an evening of fun and dance, while helping our furry friends with BSPCA’s Valentine’s Ball. Dress in your finery for a great night out that includes a sumptuous buffet dinner with selected beverages, fantastic entertainment to help you dance the night away and an exciting auction.

Tickets cost BD30 each and can be bought at the BSPCA Thrift Shop in Budaiya, the Animal Welfare Centre (AWC) in Askar, or at either the British or Dilmun Club receptions (cash only at the clubs). Tables are for eight people, so invite your friends and help raise money for a good cause.

All proceeds will go towards the maintenance of the BSPCA AWC and care of the animals sheltered there, and towards the Catch, Neuter and Return programme.

Call 37 733-415, Kate, or 66 608-901, Rachel.

Tough Challenge February 9-10 l Spartan Race l Bahrain

Internationa Circuit

Classic Carnatic February 10 l Carnatic Vocal Concert l Anahita and Apoorva l Society of Engineers, Juffair

When? February 2 Event? Grappling Contest Venue? Cobra Fitness E Call 33 123-884.

When? February 2-3 Event? Dreamland Expo Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Call Visit www. dreamlandexpo.com When? February 4-March 2 Event? Exhibition Without Name, but Numbers Venue? Al Bareh Gallery A solo exhibition by artist Hanaa Malallah.

E Call 17 717-707.

When? February 6 Event? Animal Reiki Venue? Saar Kennels E Call 36 557-120.

When? February 7 Event? Cookbook Club Venue? Words Bookstore Café Pick a recipe from the chosen book, prepare it and take it along to the monthly taster session.

E Call 17 690-790.

When? February 8 Event? Bev Fest Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club Head down to the club in Saar for an evening of live entertainment and the chance to sample a range of different beverages from craft ales to apple brews and more. Tickets are BD18 for non-members.

E Call 17 695 809.

When? February 7-28 Event? The Wanderers Exhibition Venue? The Art Centre E Call 17 298-777.

When? February 7-10 Event? Ghostbusters Activity Zone Venue? City Centre Bahrain E Call 17 177-771.

The first Spartan to be run over two days, the race will involve Sprint, Kids’ and ‘Beast’ distances – the Spring face is 5km with 20 obstacles, the race for four to 15 year olds is 1.5km with seven obstacles and the Beast is 20km with 30 obstacles.

Competitors run in mud and water, up hills, under barbed wire and over fire! For spectators, the going is a bit easier – though there are some challenges to be tried alongside lots of entertainment, food and sponsor giveaways. Spectator tickets are BD1.900 and under 12s get in free. www.spartanarabia.com 22 February 2018

Siblings with immense talent and potential, these sisters have been making a name for themselves for several years now. Their music is a product of exceptional training under their paternal grandmother, Smt Shanthi Jayaraman, and presently under the tutelage of globally acclaimed musician, composer and director Chitravina Shri N Ravikiran. This is a rare chance to see these two award-winning Carnatic musicians perform in the Kingdom hosted by the Indian Fine Arts Society Bahrain.

Entry is free.

Call 39 685-173.

When? February 9 Event? BSPCA Valentine’s Ball Venue? InterContinental Regency Bahrain E Call 37 733-415, Kate, or 66 608-901, Rachel.

When? February 9-10 Event? Spartan Race Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Visit www.spartanarabia.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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|

Awali 17756449

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Juffair 17369133

happenings

Leadership Learning

When? February 10 Event? Carnatic Vocal Concert Venue? Society of Engineers, Juffair E Call 39 685-173.

February 12-13 l Executive Leadership and Performance Improvement Workshop l Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

This two-day workshop, run by Ahlia University Bahrain and Middle Eastern Knowledge Economy Institute, has been designed to introduce a variety of perspectives on leadership in the public and private sectors. The workshop aims to enable leaders and decision-makers to introduce fit-for-purpose leadership styles and approaches to their organisations. Attendees will acquire a comprehensive knowledge and practical experience of leadership styles and approaches in alignment with the local needs and capabilities.

Call 17 298-999.

Valentine’s Bublé

February 14 l Michael Bublé Tribute l Dilmun Club

What better way to celebrate the most romantic night of the year than with tunes from a favourite crooner. Soundalike Paul Tayler will be providing the entertainment to accompany a five-course dinner. And if you’re heading out for date night but don’t want the youngsters to miss out, there’s also a Valentine’s kids’ disco with entertainer Gigi.

Call 17 690-926.

Lunchtime Legend

February 16 l Michae l Tribute Brunch l Dilmun Club

When? February 13 Event? Bahrain Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Art Divano Meet poetry fans and creators to learn more about the discipline.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? February 12-13 Event? Executive Leadership Workshop Venue? Sheraton Bahrain Hotel E Call 17 298-999.

Enter the Dragon February 16-17 | Dragon Boat Racing | Bahrain Rowing Centre To mark the Chinese New Year, Bahrain Rowing Centre is hosting its first dragon boat races. Boats are crewed by teams of 12 who row to the beat of a big drum. If you’ve not seen dragon boating, the boats look a bit like giant canoes or even Viking longboats, with dragon heads at the bow and tails at the stern. This sport looks like great fun, and it is. But it’s also hard work and very good for you.

Registration is currently open for teams of 12 – cost BD120 – and once registered you train for free.

Call 36 678-922.

Paul Tayler is back, but this time representing the King of Pop for a brunch that promises to be great fun with some awesome tunes. Paul, who channels a number of musical greats for his Ultimate Legends show, will don the trademark white glove and strut, or rather moondance, his way across the floor to give diners a treat. Tickets, including the all-inclusive brunch, are BD24.

Call 17 690-926.

Indian Festival

February 16-17 | The Grand Sakhir Festival | Samarkand Camp | Sakhir

The Indian Welfare Association takes to the desert for a family-friendly festival that’s expected to attract around 10,000 visitors. The Grand Sakhir Festival will feature magic shows, live entertainment, traditional Bahraini handicrafts, Kerala and Tamil cultural programmes, Kavi Sammelan, indoor games, a food court, more than 100 shopping stalls and an appearance by Hyderabad comics The Baigan Vines. The event runs from 10am-9pm both days and admission is 500 fils.

Call 37 779-901/36 180-200.

24 February 2018

When? February 12 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Venue? Al Riwaq Gallery Writing enthusiasts gather for a monthly session of lively discussion with likeminded people.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? February 14 Event? Michael Bublé Tribute Venue? Dilmun Club E Call 17 690-926.

When? February 16 Event? Michael Jackson Tribute Brunch Venue? Dilmun Club E Call 17 690-926.

When? February 16-17 Event? Dragon Boat Racing Venue? Bahrain Rowing Centre E Call 36 678-922.

When? February 16-17 Event? The Grand Sakhir Festival Venue? Sakhir Camping Ground E Call 37 779-901/36 180-200.

When? February 17 Event? Anniversary Celebration Venue? Bahrain Fort A night of musical with the Zeman Band to mark the anniversary of the opening of the Bahrain Fort Site Museum. From 8pm.

E Call 17 567-171.

When? February 17 Event? Bin Faqeeh Boost Venue? Dilmunia\ E Call Visit www. boostbahrain.com When? February 19 Event? Bahrain Writers› Creative Workshop Venue? The Juffair Grand Hotel Coffee Shop E Call 39 574-795. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

Cool Running

When? February 20 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123.

February 17 | Bin Faqeeh Boost | Dilmunia

This promises to be a fun-filled day with races for everyone.

There will be a KrazyKids Inflatable race, a kids cycling race, a 5km fun run and a 10km challenge run. All participants will receive medals,and T-shirts and for the 10km run trophies will be awarded for age groups as well as special prizes.

Don’t miss this event; it’s the first of its kind in the Kingdom. Price is BD10 for kids and adults. Register now by downloading the app through boostbahrain.com

When? February 22-25 Event? Bahrain International Garden Show Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre E Visit www.bigs.com.bh

Bahrain In Bloom Get Ready to Tango February 22-25 | Bahrain International

February 20 | Movie Night | La Fontaine Centre of

Garden Show | BIECC

Since its establishment in 2004, Bahrain International Garden Show has become a platform for experts and enthusiasts to develop their expertise and knowledge with the latest best practices in the industry. It is also an occasion for potential investors to seek profitable agricultural opportunities. And, of course, it’s a great platform for keen home gardeners to learn what’s available in the market as well as having a chance to see some of the best blooms on the island in the annual flower show. The theme of this year’s show is food safety and human health, focusing on every aspect of food production, from planting to plate with special attention to sustainability. www.bigs.com.bh

Contemporary Art Enjoy a musical evening watching one of the most popular dance forms with the screening of Tango at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art. A dangerous love affair inspires the director, Carlos Saura, to create the most spectacular and boldly seductive dance film ever made. A stunning movie, the score is dynamic, beautifully written and magnificently performed. And, of course, the dancing is incredible!

The screening will be held at 8pm and tickets cost BD10+, which can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening.

Call 17 230-123.

When? February 25-March 6 Event? Bahrain Food Festival Venue? Bahrain Bay E Visit www. bahrainfoodfestival.com When? February 25-April 30 Event? Spring of Culture Venue? Various E Visit www.springofculture.org When? March 2 Event? Garden Party and Barbeque Venue? Dogfather’s Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre E Call 39 629-889.

When? March 2 Event? UB40 Tribute Band Venue? Sherlock Holmes E Call Kevin 66 901-323 / 17 713-000.

When? March 3 Event? Charity Run Venue? Water Garden City, Seef E Call 39 132-102.

When? March 8-9 Event? S4K’s Macbeth Venue? Cultural Hall E Call 39 616-858.

Foodie Fun

Feb 25-March 6 | Bahrain Food Festival | Bahrain Bay

The annual food festival returns to Bahrain Bay with stalls, shows, entertainment and more. Celebrating the finest food in the region, the event highlights a range of cuisines illustrating the diversity of Bahrain’s food sector. From fresh provisions to restaurant pop-ups, chef demonstrations, games, live music and theatrical shows and roaming performers, this really is foodie heaven with something for everyone from the seasoned kitchen to professional to enthusiastic amateurs, complete beginners and young cooks. www.bahrainfoodfestival.com 26 February 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

Reggae Rockers

Cultural Capers

February 25-April 30 | Spring of Culture | Various

March 2 | UB40 tribute band Rats In The

Kitchen | Sherlock Holmes, The Gulf Hotel

Formed in Birmingham, UK, home of the original band, the members of this six-piece tribute have been playing together since 1998, taking to the stage to perform up to 90 minutes of pulsating reggae hits spanning more than 25 years making them the world’s number one UB40 tribute.

From early hits such as King and Food For Thought through to some of UB40’s most recent work combined with some footstomping 80s’ ska, Rats In The Kitchen provide a great live show that draws in audiences of all ages and they’ll be entertaining the brunch crowd at this popular pub with a selection of feel-good tunes guaranteed to get everyone dancing. Tickets are priced BD20 (early bird) and BD25 on the day for the all-inclusive package.

Call Kevin 66 901-323 / 17 713-000.

The Spring of Culture, the annual festival which sees events and performances across the island, is back for its 13th year. The festival’s kick-off date coincides with Arab Tourism Day, which was adopted when Manama was the Capital of Arab Tourism in 2013 and commemorates the anniversary of the birth of the famous Arab traveller Ibn Battuta. Bahrain’s unique cultural and historical sites form the perfect backdrop for various vibrant and

exciting activities featuring local, regional and international talents from song, music and theatre to art and much more.

These diverse events include lectures, workshops, exhibitions and concerts. This year’s festival launches with the Epic of Gilgamesh, a musical concerty by Abed Azrieh, at Bahrain National Theatre. Further events were still to be confirmed as we went to press.

Visit www.springofculture.org

Animal Aid

March 2 | Dogfather Garden Party | Dogfather’s Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, Saar

Come together for live music, fun, barbecue food, including veggie and vegan fare, and sale stalls to raise cash for the hundreds of unwanted dogs, cats and other animals cared for by Tony the Dogfather. The event runs from 11am-4pm and there’ll also be a raffle with some great prizes plus a chance to meet some of the animals.

Call 39 629-889.

On Your Marks

March 3 - Charity Run | Water Garden City, Seef

Take to the streets in aid of Bahrain Multiple Sclerosis Patients Society. There are 3km and 5km runs and a 4km walking route and anyone can take part. Kids aged six and above are welcome to join the walking route.

Youngsters from the age of nine can take part in the 3km run; and the 5km route is for those from 13 years through to adults.

There will be prizes in each section and age group.

Call 39 132-102.

28 February 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

ENTERTAINMENT+

Something Wicked This Way Comes March 7-9 | S4K’s Macbeth | The Cultural Hall Three witches — two friends ­— one crown.

The story of a noble Scottish warrior who becomes king after hearing the prophecies of three witches, how he murders his way to the crown, and fights to the death to try to keep it – Shakespeare 4 Kidz (S4K)’s version of Macbeth is a musical thriller that is guaranteed to keep all ages and all stages on the edge of their seats.

Full of gory murders, weird witches, gruesome ghosts, bloody battles and even a forest that moves, the show includes song and dance, telling the age-old story in a way young children will understand but which will also appeal to older audiences, particularly families.

S4K’s version of Macbeth uses many of Shakespeare’s original words woven into easy-to-understand modern language and beautifully portrayed.

The show has been described as: “Eerily atmospheric, genuinely original, truly entertaining and stealthily educational.”

Acclaimed Shakespeare 4 Kidz does exactly 30 February 2018

what it says on the tin, bringing the world of William Shakespeare to the young people of the world. The company’s unique easy-tounderstand musical adaptations of Shakespeare’s plays form the basis of a complete comprehension of his work. Daytime performances ensure that school parties can attend during school time and evening shows are suitable for every member of the family.

Macbeth consists of 17 very talented actors all coming from London’s West End. The audience will be in for a real treat with not only professional actors but live instrumental and musical talent.

Entertainment+ in association with Julian Chenery, Carolyn Chenery, S4K International and the Fairfield Halls, London presents S4K’s Macbeth, a musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, by Julian Chenery and Matt Gimlet. The show will run at The Cultural Hall, from March 7-9, with performances at 11.30am and 6.30pm and tickets, priced BD16 with a special family offer of four for BD56, are available at Alosra supermarkets and Havajava café inside Manazel.

School packages are also available.

Call 39 616-858 or email entertainmentplusint@gmail.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdark happenings

PREPARE FOR TAKE OFF February 1 | Willy William Live | Apollo Club Lounge| Al Safir Hotel Get ready to dance the night away to the sounds of this French star DJ, record producer and singer, famous for his club remixes and vocal collaborations with a number of dance music artists. He came to prominence in 2003 with his work with DJ Flex in the dancefloor hit B Boyz Shake da Body and in 2004 as producer of Tragedie using the pseudonym “Lord William”. He’s also done a well received remix of the Madagascar song I Like To Move It! Tickets are priced BD20 for men in advance and BD30 on the door, for women it’s BD10 in advance and BD15 on the door.

Call 33 629-243 / 17 827-999.

IN A TRANCE February 1 | Trancephoria Club Night | The Gulf Hotel Be in at the launch of Trancephoria nights in the Gulf co-hosted by Saudrain and Vibes with a stellar line-up of DJs. Making his Bahrain debut, Prague-based Reorder has played at Tomorrowland and his mix of Where You Hide with Lee Osborne and Roxanne Emery has recorded more than a million listens on Spotify. Dubai-based Chris Metcalfe makes his Trancephoria debut hot from a New Year’s Eve performance at Zero Gravity, playing to a 6,000-strong beach crowd. And Amir Hussain is a Barhain favourite, who’s now hitting the DJ scene in the UK. They’ll be supported by island regulars SkyDrivers and Andy Collins for what promises to be a brilliant night. Tickets are BD10, pre-sale, and BD15 on the door.

Call Mohamed 36 074-124 or Zahran +966 59 431-2476.

IBIZA IN BAHRAIN February 2 | Sky Vibes with Maxine Hardcastle | Wyndham Garden Vibes is proimising a night of incredible music, a stunning crowd and a beautiful and breathtaking venue at the new Wyndham Garden Rooftop on the 28th floor.

The headliner is Maxine Hardcastle all the way from Ibiza to deliver an excellent set.

DJ, singer and songwriter Maxine is not restrained by genre, having written, sung and remixed for labels such as Universal, Hed Kandi, Ministry of Sound, Pacha Recordings, Hardcastle Music, CnR and Discopolis. She has also released chill-out and smooth jazz records hitting the number one and number 17 spots on the American Billboard chart. How did she learn all of this? From no other than iconic pop star, Paul Hardcastle, who happens to be her father. Her performance guarantees a night to remember.

The event kicks off at 2pm with DJ Andy Collins on the decks followed by Ramy and Frankie Flowers on the sax. Why not make a day of it and stay through to the wee hours?

Call 32 223-323 / 66 966-313.

32 February 2018

LIVE AND LOCAL February 2 | Diraz Diraz | Bahrain Rugby Football Club If you haven’t caught a performance by these guys yet, you’re missing out. They are six talented expats – Simon Basnett (guitar), Tom Simms (drums), Dan Edwards (bass), Daniela Massa (vocals), Paddy Wall (vocals, keyboard and guitar) and Paul Gray (vocals) – who love nothing better than to get on stage and have a good time. They’ll be rocking out to tunes from the likes of The Beatles, Maroon Five, The Stereophonics and loads more, from classic pop to up-to-date chart sounds. And their enthusiasm always ensures a party atmosphere.

Call 17 695-809. www.bahrainthismonth.com

15 years of Care Dreams Responsibility Guidance Strength Community Recovering Hope Communication Respect Assistance Support Growth

Bahrain Specialist Hospital Juffair: Main Line: 17812000 Appointments: 17812222 Emergency: 17812111 Fax: 17812012 Email: bshinfo@bsh.com.bh www.bsh.com.bh

BSH Clinics - West Riffa: First floor, Bldg: 767, Road: 1221, Block: 912 Tel: 13381338 Email: bshclinics@bsh.com.bh

afterdark happenings

CARNIVAL TIME

TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND February 8 | Bob Marley Birthday Concert | Coral Bay

February 7-9 | Rio Carnival | Meisei

Samba dancers, vibrant colours and special guest percussion artists, Idress and Hassan Khatal, can only mean one thing: Brazilian style carnival fun at Meisei!

Enjoy the spirit of the world-famous Rio Carnival with three nights of celebrations kicking off with a special Salsabor party on February 7. Watch the enthusiastic dancers take to the floor, join in and shake your booty. The fun continues with carnivalinspired late night parties, February 8 and 9, where guests can enjoy exclusive new cocktails. In keeping with the carnival theme, the dress code is bright colours, sequins, feathers and outlandish accessories. Sounds like fun!

Call 17 007-770.

Ky-Mani Marley, son of the legendary singer, makes his first visit to our shores for a concert celebrating late reggae icon’s 73rd birthday. Ky-Mani, whose name means traveller, is himself a Grammy-nominated reggae and hip-hop star who has recorded with some of the best in the business. He has an eclectic body of work that covers multiple genres and includes film and video appearances.

As a teenager, Ky-Mani started rapping and deejaying; his first single was Unnecessary Badness. He became inspired as a singer after being asked to sing a hook to a song during a recording session at a studio in Miami.

Ky-Mani signed to Shang Records, where he recorded his debut album in 1996 titled Like Father Like Son, and several singles including Dear Dad, which topped the British reggae charts.

In 1997, he joined forces with Pras of The Fugees on a hit cover of Eddy Grant’s Electric Avenue and he has been active in the music industry ever since.

At his Bahrain appearance he’ll be performing with Konfrontation Band, with support from DJ Teddy Jam, DJ Riddle and DJ Kofi Wisky. Tickets are BD8 for women and BD10 for men, pre-sale, and BD10 and BD12, on the day.

Call 17 312-700.

SOUND OF THE STARS February 8 | Italian Carnival with DJ Nicola Fasano | Olivetto February 8 - Italian Carnival with DJ Nicola Fasano - Olivetto This Italian spinner is known as the Prince’s DJ as he’s invited to play at all the VIP parties in Monaco. Join him for a night of masquerade carnival at one of the Kingdom’s favourite Italian eateries and expect top-notch entertainment and cool vibes with great food to boot. Support comes from local favourite DJ Andy Collins. Entry is free for ladies up to 10pm, BD10 thereafter and BD15 for gents.

Call 32 223-323‬ / 34 223-992 / 34 518-079‬.

TAXING TUNES February 9 | Tax Dodgers Live | JJ’s The Tax Dodgers are the go-to band for classic rock and blues in Bahrain. They performed at the Bahrain Gaelic Games Festival supporting internationally acclaimed U2 tribute band, ZU2 and are known around the island for their great fun sets.

They’ll be at JJ’s on February 9 for their regular monthly after-brunch slot to make sure the party keeps on going into the night.

Call Ahmed 33 843-005.

34 February 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

sponsorship ZALLAQ SPRINGS

A Key Partnership Zallaq is set to be home to a unique retreat destination, especially for the athletic community.

Al Zallaq Real Estate Company has signed an agreement with Bahrain Triathlon Association (BTA) to sponsor 10 races in 2018 and host the finish line at its soon-to-be-developed property – Zallaq Springs. It was signed by Al Zallaq Real Estate Company’s chief operating officer, Shaikh Salman bin Khalid Al Khalifa, and BTA president, Dr Shaikh Saqer bin Salman Al Khalifa.

Zallaq Springs is an original homegrown concept located in the heart of Zallaq, within the Southern Governorate. It will include water springs, 10 restaurants and cafés and 19 shops, surrounded by manmade ponds that cover 3,399sq/m. It’s a unique destination, inspired by ideas of international atmospheric spaces including Japanese Zen gardens; it is being developed to be the first-of-its-kind botanical garden in the Kingdom.

It aspires to provide a platform for athletic communities to retreat to a sanctuary beside their cycling routes, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The property will include distinctive parking stands for cyclists, with exclusive shower rooms for them to freshen up and rejuvenate.

“With three months to go for the project completion, we are pleased to announce strategic collaborations, especially with the Bahrain Triathlon Association, as we see our vision turn into reality,” says

Management of Zallaq Springs and Bahrain Triathlon Association

Shaikh Salman. “Zallaq Springs is a unique property with an unparalleled ambience. It is a lifestyle experience for the community that promotes familial bonding and healthy living while relaxing and unwinding in a stress-free environment.”

The property is to provide an avant-garde central point for everyone to meet, relax, eat and socialise within an environment that houses an astounding 3,342 aquatic plants, 3,699 shrubs and 110 trees of a diverse variety, as well as birds such as flamingos, ducks and swans.

Call 17 203-056 or visit www.zallaqsprings.com

New Year’s Eve Atiram Premier Hotel held New Year’s Eve parties at its premises.

Wembley Staff with Krazy Kevin

DJ Shortman, DJ Lady Coco & Annu

Sallu, Annu, Sayu, Seyu & Sunil

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Partygoers from Bollywood

February 2018 35

INTERVIEWS

this month

Like Father, Like Son, p38

HE Justin Siberell

Betting On Bitcoin, p40

A Green Extravaganza, p42

MORE THAN 100 YEARS OF FRIENDSHIP New US Ambassador HE Justin Siberell tells Liz O’Reilly that bilateral relations are as strong as ever.

Hungry for Success, p48

36 February 2018

A

mbassador Siberell took up his post in early November last year but was quickly back in Washington DC for the visit by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, which His Excellency says was “an honour and a great way to get started”.

His Excellency is no stranger to the Middle East, having served in Baghdad, Jordan, Egypt and, most recently, Dubai – where he earlier met his wife. He had previously visited Bahrain and this is his first ambassadorial posting.

He is an Arabic speaker, having studied through the US State Department, and he has been interested in the Gulf region since his first posting to Dubai in 1995 saying: “I was deeply compelled by the issues, culture and history you sense here.

“I think, as a US diplomat, this part of the world is one in which are combined important matters of national security – it’s a strategic region for the United States.

What happens here impacts the world. It is also an east and west crossroads. That’s fascinating on a personal level and has strategic implications that make diplomacy very important. I will always be interested on all levels.”

Prior to his Bahrain posting, His Excellency served as the coordinator for counterterrorism at the US Department of State from 2012 and he feels this is helpful in his current role, saying: “Terrorism as a global phenomenon is a challenge and affliction that every country is dealing with. Confronting it requires international collaboration and cooperation. That experience is extremely relevant to the work we’re doing in the region.

“My time [at the State Department] coincided with the rise of Islamic State and our effort to build a 70 country coalition to defeat it. It is among the most consequential challenges we face.

“Bahrain itself has been a victim of terrorism and we work closely with the government of Bahrain to address threats to our shared security.”

The Ambassador says his primary ambition for his time in the Kingdom is to strengthen the already close bonds enjoyed by Bahrain and the US people. He says: “I take direction from our leadership and my job is made easier by the commitment of President Trump to the Gulf. His first trip for example – typically, presidents visit our close neighbours like Canada or Mexico, but President Trump’s first trip outside the US was to Riyadh, a clear indication of the importance we place on the Gulf region.

So, my direction is quite clear and the commitment of the leaders of both countries is clear.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

And, on the strong bilateral relations, His Excellency explains: “We promote cultural exchange as a way to strengthen people-to-people ties – we have an author here at the moment working with Bahraini writers, and we will also be participating again in the Spring of Culture. Culture is an area where there are lots of opportunities to strengthen ties.

“The Bahraini government is also working hard to deepen cultural ties.

It has recently sponsored art exhibitions in the US and I think it’s an area of real opportunity. There are hundreds of Bahraini students in the US at any given time – that provides a springboard for deeper understanding.

“The US community here is very well looked after by the Bahraini government and people. Our interaction goes back more than 100 years with the founding of the American Mission Hospital and since that time Americans have found an extraordinarily welcoming environment here.”

There are around 17,000 Americans in the Kingdom and bilateral trade currently stands at around USD1.7billion. A free trade agreement between the two nations came into force in 2006 and His Excellency says: “Bahrain serves as a gateway to the region for US businesses.

Trade has really surged since the signing of the free trade agreement and it’s an area where we see real opportunities. There’s more to be done, making sure both sides know how to take advantage of the opportunities the agreement provides. We are working closely with the Bahraini government to understand the direction in which the economy is moving and ensuring that American businesses that are represented in the sectors that are being emphasised.”

Recent developments have included agreements for US involvement in modernisation works at the Bapco refinery and Alba, which were highlighted when the Crown Prince was in the US. The visit also saw the announcement of Bahrain’s purchase of Boeing F16 fighter aircraft worth USD3 billion.

The Ambassador adds: “More recently we’ve had the Amazon Web Services opening, the expansion of the Mondelez biscuit factory [which makes Oreos] to take on production for the whole GCC, and we may see more.

“We’re looking at the Bahrain government’s strategies on IT, logistics, transport, tourism and petrochemicals – these are all areas we think US companies are well placed to participate in – power generation as well.

And there are opportunities in renewables, particularly solar. Petra Engineering has a solar field test base here in Bahrain already.

“Overall, I feel fortunate to be posted to Bahrain at this specific moment in history, with the opportunity to take the already-strong relationship between our two countries to new heights.”

Mohammed

New Year’s Eve Party Al Areen Palace & Spa held a New Year’s Eve party at its premises.

Priya & Aniket

Riyaz & Ramji

Isa

Hussain, Omar & Hassan

The Ambassador at American Mission Hospital

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2018 37

interview

LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON APPLE SHARMA

Ky-Mani Marley, popular reggae artist and son of legendary Bob Marley, will make his debut in Bahrain this month. He speaks candidly to BTM in an exclusive interview ahead of his visit to the island.

Sports have been your first love. How did your musical journey start?

My musical journey started by divine intervention; I was hanging around in the studio singing and someone in the studio told me I have a good tone and here we are today.

Your song Dear Dad from The Journey album topped the British reggae charts. How did that make you feel?

It’s always a feel-good moment when other people recognise and enjoy your music. For me it was such a personal song that I’m glad that people could relate to it.

Ky-Mani Marley

Was it tough following in your father’s footsteps? How did you deal with the pressure?

For me the transition into music felt natural. I don’t let the pressure of the Industry affect what I have going on.

Your father was a reggae legend. How much influence has he had on your own music?

Well, one of the reasons I do music is because of my father. I’m inspired by his music and his positivity, and try to incorporate his message into my music.

What motivates you to create music? Who has been your biggest inspiration?

Life motivates my music and is also my biggest inspiration.

You’ve collaborated with various international artists including Pras [Fugees] and Gentleman [Germany’s renowned reggae singer]. Which experience has been your most memorable?

I would say my most memorable experience is whenever I’m on stage with all my brothers.

Are you working on anything new? What’s in the pipeline?

I’m always working on new music – hope to 38 February 2018

have an album out this summer. I’m also focused on a new soccer team I have acquired in Jamaica named Falmouth United.

This is your first trip to Bahrain. Are you excited and what can the fans look forward to at the event?

I’m always excited to visit a new place. The fans can look forward to a high energy, exciting show with a blend of my father’s legendary songs and my own.

What’s your favourite Bob Marley song? Who’s on your playlist at the moment?

My favourite Bob Marley song depends on my mood, so to say I have one favourite would be unfair; they are all my favourites. My playlist at the moment consists of music ideas I’ve been working on, to use on my forthcoming album project.

Your name means ‘traveller’. Do you travel a lot?

What is your favourite destination and why?

Well I’m a musician, so yes, I do a bit of travelling. My favourite destination is where I’m at at the time.

To celebrate the 73rd birthday of Bob Marley, Coral Bay will be hosting an anniversary event on February 8, featuring his son Ky-Mani Marley, for the first time in Bahrain.

Full details in the Happenings section (page 34). www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

BETTING ON BITCOIN APPLE SHARMA Cyber security and blockchain expert, Jorge Sebastiao, talks to BTM about bitcoin’s recent hype and where he sees things heading in the future.

I

f you like to keep up with what’s happening in the news, then chances are you’ve heard of bitcoin. The popular digital currency has been causing quite a stir lately, largely due to its spectacular rise in value, which saw it reach almost USD20,000 in December 2017 – roughly a 20-fold increase since the beginning of last year.

“Bitcoin over the years has become like gold; a vehicle of investment,” says Jorge, an information and communications technology (ICT) expert at Huawei, who got involved in the world of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology over two years ago. “Even with over valuation and high volatility, the market for bitcoin has remained relatively strong.”

Whilst bitcoin has skyrocketed to unprecedented heights, a media frenzy has followed, with opinions divided on whether it will revolutionise the world or burst like a bubble. With so much talk, it’s easy for the average person to get lost amid the speculation and technical jargon. Jorge helps explain some of the core concepts around bitcoin and the technology behind it.

“Bitcoin is a virtual currency that uses a distributed immutable digital ledger, called a blockchain, to record transactions across many computers using secured cryptography,” he says. “It has some inherent advantages over traditional currency in that its transactions can be cheaper, faster, more discrete and cannot be deleted. It is also decentralised, without the need for central authorities.”

Of course, nothing is perfect and Jorge points out some of the obstacles preventing bitcoin 40 February 2018

Jorge Sebastiao

from mainstream adoption. “Most people have trouble grasping what exactly bitcoin is, and despite its popularity, it still doesn’t enjoy wide acceptance by merchants and banks, and some credit cards even prevent its acceptance,” he says. “It also has a cost [transactions are getting expensive] and scalability issue, and is unable to rapidly process the increasing number of transactions being demanded of it – though this is being improved upon.”

Surprisingly, it’s also a major environmental concern. “The spiralling use of electricity used for mining – the process used to create bitcoin – means that it’s not a very green technology,” says Jorge. And although newer versions of the blockchain technology use less energy and are more efficient, it has been estimated that bitcoin mining is currently consuming enough energy to power Denmark for a year.

The use of bitcoin by criminals and money launderers is also attracting the attention of financial regulators and law enforcement.

Asked whether he sees this becoming a bigger issue, Jorge says: “Lots of work remains to be done in this area. By its nature, innovation and technology moves too fast for governance and regulation, which lags several years behind, leaving a window of opportunity for cybercriminals. Several jurisdictions, such as Japan, Switzerland and even the UAE and Bahrain, have been at the forefront of this evolution by introducing mechanisms to allow controlled and governed innovation.”

With other countries, including Germany, France, South Korea and India, threatening to limit cryptocurrency trading, it seems the fears

of regulatory crackdowns are beginning to dent investor confidence in bitcoin, which fell below USD10,000 in January.

“The acceptance or banning of cryptocurrencies is not uniform,” he says of the potential clampdown. “Some countries completely outlaw it; others have a more pragmatic approach, seeing this as an opportunity to enhance the capabilities of their current traditional fiat currency by introducing crypto-based ones.”

Looking to the future, Jorge says: “Bitcoin, along with other cryptocurrencies, like Ethereum, will have both a utilitarian and decentralised value to add to society. For blockchain technology, the uses are endless, allowing a new generation of applications across many sectors, including real estate, pharmaceutical, transportation, manufacturing and many others.”

As for how people living in Bahrain can get involved in this digital currency revolution, he says: “There are several local exchanges in the Middle East, like Palmex & BitOasis in Dubai, and Belfrics in Bahrain, which is using the Bahrain Regulatory Sandbox [a mechanism for developing regulation]. But people should educate themselves first through reading, online videos, podcasts, et cetera. Novices should get advice and keep their transactions to their capacity and level of knowledge.”

Pressed on whether he’s bullish on bitcoin’s price in the long term, Jorge says: “I’m not a trader, I’m a technologist, so I’ll leave this speculation to the traders. However, I am bullish on the usage of blockchain!” www.bahrainthismonth.com

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interview

Her Excellency Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa

Inauguration of BIGS 2017

A GREEN EXTRAVAGANZA BEHNAZ SANJANA

T

Her Excellency Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, secretary general of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development, gives a sneak preview of the upcoming annual garden show.

he Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre will see the return of the annual Bahrain International Garden Show (BIGS) from February 22 to 25 this year. The show, held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, is the vision and foresight of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of the King of Bahrain, to promote the agriculture sector in the Kingdom.

“BIGS is the flagship event organised by the National Initiative for Agricultural Development [NIAD], which is an administrative body that supports the growth and development of the country’s agricultural sector,” says Shaikha Maram. “The show is a platform for new businesses to advertise their goods and services to the public, create new trade partnerships and review the latest developments in the field. It is also an occasion to spread awareness and education on various related topics.”

BIGS still retains its two-pronged purpose – commercial benefits to professionals and the spread of awareness amongst Bahrain’s populace. Shaikha Maram says: “This year’s theme is food safety, starting from the time the seed is chosen, planted, nurtured, harvested, processed, packaged and sent to the markets, 42 February 2018

till it is purchased for consumption. Safety procedures in each of these stages will be highlighted: the responsibility to ensure that the produce growing is safe for consumption, handling produce while harvesting, packaging and transporting for sale, correct storage in the marketplace, and finally, focusing on how the consumer can keep food fit for eating, and know when it’s not wise to eat it.”

The show will have two zones: Hall 1 – The Market Zone, and Hall 2 – The Awareness Zone.

Speaking about Hall 1, Shaikha Maram explains: “Many a start-up has launched their goods and services at the Garden Show as the first attempt to tell the public about what they offer, and there are a couple of such new companies this year as well. For me personally, that is a matter of great pride, as it proves that the show has successfully played the role of a catalyst in bolstering this industry. There is much bigger investment in agricultural companies than before, showing that this platform, created back in 2004, is serving its purpose.

“Hall 2 is occupied by government institutions, private sector companies, NGOs and educational institutions. All participants are required to make their stand informative, and the best ones get awarded for their efforts. In the past, we have come across some excellent

displays and this really goes a long way to spread knowledge in society, especially as we have students from several schools visiting us.”

Each year, NIAD strives to improve the quality of the show to garner greater public interest. The last show had 155 exhibitors and a footfall of over 45,000 visitors over an area of more than 7,000sq/m. “Our regular participants go the extra mile to bring something that is unique to the event to attract people’s attention,” she says.

She points out that Bahrain, like other Gulf countries, has come a long way in encouraging local farming and is doing its bit to make it a sustainable occupation. “Although our resources like land and water are limited, we are producing more than what we were before,” she adds. “In the olden days, the biggest industry in Bahrain was agriculture. But with oil, property and telecommunications taking centre stage, farming took a back seat.

Today, everybody realises that it is not a luxury but a necessity to increase self-reliance, and hence, the efforts to grow locally and reduce imports is the focus.

“The variety of stalls at the show will greatly interest adults and children, and I extend a warm invitation to everyone to come and enjoy it. All are welcome!” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Rubi & Mwai

Avan & Perwin

Social Night CODA Lounge celebrated its anniversary with German Ambassador, HE Alfred Simms-Protz, as well as US Ambassador, HE Justin Siberell, in attendance.

HE Justin Siberell, George, Dihann & HE Alfred Simms-Protz

Ameena, Shabena & Akeel

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sara & Jac

Gigi, Alex & Avan

Dina, Vlada & Yulia

Thanos, George & Damian

February 2018 43

interview

CARDLESS PAYMENT OPTIONS LIZ O’REILLY CEO B Chandrasekhar of Arab Financial Services explains his company’s services and the latest fintech innovations.

How long has AFS been in Bahrain?

AFS was established in 1984. We are licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as an ancillary services provider and a payment services provider. Today we serve over 70 banks, financial institutions, telecommunications companies [telcos] and retailers in over 20 countries in the Middle East and Africa region.

What is the core of the company’s business?

AFS provides end-to-end payment solutions for its banks, financial institutions, telcos and retailers. Our vision is to be the partner of choice for payments and be the leading fintech enabler for our customers.

AFS has recently launched bwallet, a new fintech service, can you please explain what this is? bwallet is the first product in Bahrain that offers easy and convenient P2P [person-to-person] money transfers in addition to offering an easy way to pay at merchant locations using the quick response [QR] code technology. It is also the first product to offer a unique KYC feature for registering customers – eliminating the need for customers to personally submit physical documents.

We hear you partnered with Batelco to release the app. What was AFS’s role in the development and roll-out and how does the product align with the services the company offers to banks and other financial institutions?

AFS and Batelco jointly developed the product.

AFS is the leader in providing innovative payment products and bwallet is the latest addition to this suite.

What are the future plans or vision for bwallet?

In the future we will enable overseas money transfers to other overseas wallets and introduce more merchant offers and discounts to 44 February 2018

make bwallet the best way to pay.

What are the benefits for users, both individual and businesses?

The benefit to individuals is that there is no need to use physical cash or for users to swipe a card at merchant locations — customers can pay conveniently by simply using their mobile phones. There will be several offers at merchant locations, which also adds value to the product. We already have an offer with Dana Cinema where customers can enjoy a ‘buy one, get one free’ on movie tickets. Customers also receive two per cent cashback till March 31, 2018, on their monthly spends and this will be credited at the end of each month.

For the merchant this removes the need to store physical cash and solves reconciliation problems. The cost of carrying physical cash is a huge burden on most businesses. bwallet eliminates this cost.

It is a very recent launch. What has been the market reaction so far?

We have had a fantastic response to our launch; we expect this to increase further as customers and merchants realise the benefits of using bwallet.

AFS is currently gearing up for its second fintech conference in partnership with Bank ABC. What will be this year’s theme?

This year our theme is Beyond Disruption and we have lined up an array of renowned speakers from across the world. The fintech industry is moving fast and, in our view, the disruption has already begun in the market.

Who will be the notable speakers attending and their areas of expertise?

B Chandrasekhar

Amongst the impressive list of speakers, we have HE Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain; Sael Al Waary, chairman of AFS and deputy group CEO of Bank ABC; Anthony Thomson, founder and former chairman of Atom Bank and Metro Bank; Gregg Cross, chief business officer Soul Machines; Alastair Lukies, CBE, the chairman of Innovate Finance and UK Prime Minister’s Business Ambassador for Fintech.

Participation at the event is by invitation only.

We are expecting around 350 guests from Bahrain and the MEA region.

What are AFS’s plans for the future. Are there any other new developments in the pipeline?

AFS plans to expand its geographic footprint, and expanding the Africa region is integral and key to our growth. In the MEA region, we will be strengthening our ties with both current and new clients by providing both innovative products and enabling fintech solutions for our customers.

We are also expanding our fintech business by introducing state-of-the-art fintech products.

We will be enhancing our digital banking solution to offer a ‘digital bank in a box’ product.

AFS plans to enter the merchant acquiring business by introducing a state-of-the-art point of sales solution in 2018. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Sael Al Waary and Dr Khaled Kawan, Bank ABC group CEO

bwallet Launch

HE Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, Central Bank Bahrain governor, Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and B Chandrasekhar

Arab Financial Services (AFS) launched its new product, bwallet, at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Batelco chairman, B Chandrasekhar, AFS CEO, and Sael Al Waary, AFS chairman and Bank ABC deputy group CEO.

Abderrahmane Mounir, Batelco CMO, Mahmood Hashim Al Kooheji, Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company CEO, Sael Al Waary, Dr Khaled Kawan, HE Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Mohamed Bubashait, Batelco CEO, Khalid Hamad, Central Bank Bahrain executive director and B Chandrasekhar.

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February 2018 45

interview

G

one are the days when ordering food for home delivery was a timeconsuming affair. Talabat, the first online food ordering service in the region, has made its presence felt all over the GCC and Jordan. The company is part of Delivery Hero, the leading global online food ordering and delivery marketplace, based in Berlin, Germany.

“The inception of the company took place in 2004, in Kuwait, with a vision to create a platform that gives people access to restaurants in an easy and efficient manner, and provides an exceptional delivery experience,” says Mahmoud. “This soon turned into a reality, and Talabat’s success grew beyond Kuwait and expanded to the rest of the GCC region, where it was introduced in Bahrain in 2012. It is now a regional pioneer in the field and a true homegrown success story.”

The company has over 400 restaurant partners, ranging from global franchises to local concepts, with more than 700 branches operating. “With around 30 different cuisines on our platform, we always aim to satisfy all taste buds and preferences,” says Mahmoud.

The company satisfies the New Age consumer’s quest for convenience and penchant for online shopping for their everyday needs, he says, adding: “Talabat offers users the convenience of ordering food from a large selection of restaurants with just a few taps.

We strive to elevate our customer experiences in the context of ease, experience and choice, where the creation of a superior customer journey with excellent customer service is our top priority.”

With the rise of the smartphone, 75 per cent of orders are placed through the company’s mobile application. Mahmoud explains that by being listed on this virtual platform, restaurants reach a much wider user base, where they are able to offer their services without incurring additional expenses.

One of the most important milestones that the company has seen in its rapid growth would definitely be the launch of its own delivery fleet, Talabat GO. This has enabled restaurants that do not have their own delivery services, or have limited scope of delivery, to serve customers that were not earlier in their reach. Mahmoud elaborates: “Having our own delivery offering enabled us to widen our portfolio of restaurant partners to our customer database and increase order frequency as well as customer satisfaction rates. Talabat GO provides users with live tracking and faster delivery, along with more restaurants to choose from. The success 46 February 2018

Mahmoud Badawy

HUNGRY FOR SUCCESS BEHNAZ SANJANA Mahmoud Badawy, managing director of the company leading the online food ordering industry, tells Behnaz Sanjana all about its journey and what lies ahead. of Talabat GO came through signing more than 100 new restaurants joining the platform, within the period of only six months.”

Talking about plans going forward, Mahmoud is optimistic about the organisation’s future. He says: “The rise in digital technology has been key in shaping food ordering behaviours, both from a global perspective and in the region. At Talabat, we make it a point not to treat every market the same, and maintain an ongoing due diligence process, so that we understand each market’s nuances.

“Being a home-grown business that is part of a global food ordering giant puts us in the unique position of balancing local insights with global learnings. At the same time, we continue to be very close to our restaurant partners and

customers, continuously channelling their feedback into our business to ensure that we stay ahead of the curve in the online food delivery ecosystem. Talabat’s future will consist of continuous optimisation of our product and services, new offerings and great value to both users and restaurant partners. We aim to keep providing Bahrain with a service which consists of continuous quality, efficiency and a great selection of restaurants to choose from.”

Mahmoud is grateful to Talabat’s loyal users and restaurant partners for their role in the company’s success story by way of their continuous support. He says that the firm aims to further expand on its restaurant portfolio — to be the go-to food delivery platform, which serves a wide range of preferences. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Christophe, HE Cécile Longé & Christian

Khamis

Mohammed, Mohammed & Hesham

Abdulaziz

Installux Gulf Anniversary Installux Gulf celebrated its 20th anniversary at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Rami, Marwan & Bassem

Samir, Fareed & Ronnie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Centy, HE Cécile Longé, Jean, Veronica & Hudha

February 2018 47

bystander

Debbie, Peter, Gerry, HE Simon Martin & Sophie

Rohit

Launch Party Lanterns Group launched its LNT Gastropub on the rooftop of Lanterns restaurant in Adliya.

Lalit & Liz

Rishi, Sanjay, Ashish, Sanjeev & Navneet

Sanjana, Reem & Elita

Mehak, Sarah & Meenakshi

Arpita & Anu

Mehak, Elita, Veronica, Namita & Vandana

www.jfcbahrain.com

48 February 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOTORING

this month

Talking Motors, p50

My Life in Cars DICK POTTER I have always had a thing for German cars – if that ‘thing’ had been money, I would probably have owned more of them!

In the mid ‘90s I had one which I semi-restored until it nearly bankrupted me, and since 2007 I have owned one which has proved as trusty and reliable as an old sheepdog.

On leave over the festive season and arriving at the airport rental car desk in London, I got upgraded to one of these latest models. As you might imagine, I practically skipped to its parking place to find a fourdoor, two-litre, four-cylinder, nine-gear, direct injection turbocharger vision in silver-grey awaiting me.

Pressing the start button and discovering that it had only 540 miles on the clock only added to my delight, and since I had it for 10 days, it seemed the perfect excuse to give it a bit of a road test.

Without giving the game away totally, it was absolutely ‘wunderbar’ to drive. The interior has great ergonomic design, super legroom, top-class information and entertainment systems and, wait for it, interior surround mood lights, which you could change the colour of – providing endless amusement given the early sunsets of winter. On the subject of winter, another thumbs up from me were the heated seats, controls discreetly displayed on the doorframe, with three selection settings, no less. The car had a decently large, 450-litre boot, easily accommodating suitcases, bags, shopping and a wheelchair – no, not mine, yet!

I didn’t test the remote parking system or the auto brake feature which prevents you accidently reversing into an unseen car approaching.

Looking around me whilst journeying on the various www.bahrainthismonth.com

motorways of the UK, I was struck that I did not see one single other model similar to what I was driving. It is incredible how many types this manufacturer is pushing out now – I confirmed this later whilst looking through a few car buyers’ guides and seeing exactly how many different models there are.

Later in my seasonal travels, I saw a pick-up, yes, you read that correctly, a pick-up from this manufacturer displayed as a raffle prize at Budapest airport. It would be interesting to see how this model would fare in the Bahrain market. Achtung all pick-up dealers!

Ten days’ driving this beauty clocked up 1,250kms.

Fuel cost me £100, equating to a very acceptable average of 70kms per gallon (4.5 litres) of combined motorway and town driving. Actually, the manufacturers claim that with careful driving you can get nearly 96kms. Yes, this average was also helped by the car’s diesel engine – a barely perceptively sounding diesel engine, I hasten to add.

Absolutely no prizes, but, if you correctly guess the exact model, I might just give you a mention! Answers on a postcard to my email below!

Mein Verdict Model: You got it yet?!

Top speed: 240kph 0-100kph: 7.2 seconds Price: (Hint) not going to be cheap!

Overall rating: 8 Highs: Cruising pleasure – Oh, OK then, the mood light control switch!

Lows: Six cylinders would be better Cº²: 120g/km

Celebrating in Style, p52

Setting New Records, p53

View more info online

Happy Motoring!

Write to me at: dick@redhousemarketing.com February 2018 49

motoring David McGoldrick

Talking Motors APPLE SHARMA With a passion for all things automotive, David McGoldrick is a self-proclaimed petrol-head. He chats about his new role at one of the biggest car dealerships in the Kingdom and about the future of the industry.

David’s passion for motors started at a young age, when he used to play on the floor with his cars. His father, who worked closely with the industry and later owned a workshop and taxi business, played a big role in igniting his interest. “Dad was always tinkering with cars; he was from a technical, mechanical sort of background,” he reminisces. “In the summer holidays, when other children were out, I was in the garage changing wheels, covered in oil.”

A native of Liverpool, UK, home to some of the world’s leading automotive brands, David is very well

versed with the motoring world and now brings his expertise to Bahrain at Euro Motors (EM) as the general manager of the BMW Group (Rolls-Royce, BMW and Mini).

Having worked with various brands like Volkswagen, Skoda and Porsche, David’s vast experience has predominantly been with BMW in the UK, where he first joined the company in the ‘80s, with an apprenticeship as a technician. After a short stint in financial services, he returned to the industry in the mid-‘90s with car sales and worked his way through different ranks, leading up to general manager.

“Before coming to Bahrain, I was working in Volkswagen in Chester for Inchcape, one of its biggest sites in the UK,” he says. “I had new cars, used cars, and responsibilities for the Inchcape division of Bodyshop – so we looked after Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Jaguar and Land Rover Bodyshop.

“I had initially looked at coming out to the Middle East 10 years ago. I toyed with the idea of seeing if the skills were transferable to another market. It’s different over here because, in the Middle East, it’s what’s called an ‘importer market’, so working for Euro Motors, we’re the sole importer of BMW, RollsRoyce, Jaguar, Ferrari and Maserati in the Kingdom.

But in the UK, you work for a national sales company, which is BMW UK, so while it’s selling cars, it’s just a very different structure.”

David also has general manager responsibilities for Ferrari and Maserati. Additionally, he looks after the EM Bodyshop and EM outlet site, as well as BMW bikes, and is accountable for delivering agreed financial budgets for both EM and the brand partners.

He’s certainly had his hands full since he arrived but seems to enjoy the rush of it, saying: “One of the exciting things about coming here was to deliver the Ferrari-Maserati dealership because that was halfway through when I got here in August, so with the support of the team we delivered that on plan and within budget.”

With major plans up his sleeve, David is particularly enthusiastic about a couple of new ideas, one of which is the outlet business, which will bring a

Hybrid cars are the future

50 February 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

different concept to retail and used vehicles within the Kingdom. “For pre-owned cars that sit outside the BMW Premium Select Standards, we will still offer these cars and sell them online through the EM outlet – so it will be a digital platform online,” he adds.

To tie in with this project, a new Euro Motors website will be introduced. David’s aim is to bring a different strategy for car buyers on the island and he’s confident that it will work, as it’s a tried and tested model, one that he was heavily involved with in the UK. He says: “The economy is tough at the moment as people aren’t buying as many new cars as they were. But there’s still a requirement for cars. People still need cars in this country because the transport infrastructure isn’t brilliant, so I think there is a place to buy a quality premium used car with the backend of Euro Motors.”

With the current economic situation, David has had a challenging six months – looking at ways to entice the customers back into the showrooms and at the business as a whole. “So, we’ve done a cost analysis right throughout the business, and there’s been some streamlining for sure,” he explains. “We’ve had to look at what we’re selling and what our mix is, so maybe not always selling 7-series and 5-series, but putting all the cars in a range and making them more affordable.

“It’s forced us to look more at the ownership cycle of our cars – maybe people don’t want to invest all of their capital in a car, maybe they’re willing to take the risk on lease. So, we’re doing a lot more work on lease ownership of vehicles. Making sure that we’re competitive in the marketplace, particularly on the service side and parts side.”

And of the near future, he says: “I’m hoping that Bahrain has an interesting and exciting quarter one, up to halfyear. We’re geared up for it; we’ve got plenty of cars around us, offers and deals. We’ve got lots of new cars coming with new X2 range and the new X3 at the moment is our new car. We’ve also got some interesting models coming at the end of this year – with the X7 and the 8-series – great cars for this range.

“On the Rolls-Royce side, we’ve got Cullinan coming at the end of the year; new Phantom has just arrived with lots of interest in all models in the range. It’s a very interesting time for Ferrari – 812 – superfast – is the car at the moment, closely followed up by Portofino and also Maserati Levante. So, we’re very fortunate that our brand partners have chosen such fabulous cars for us to sell this year.”

With 240 staff under his supervision, David tries to keep them all engaged as best as he can, and says: “I’m tasking this year to look beyond just selling cars. This year is about customers, about making sure that we’re getting our message out to them, inviting them in, pointing, demonstrating the features and benefits of the cars, and letting people make a choice.

“We’ve just got to work harder with what we’re doing.

We’ve got to make sure that we’re ready to retail. There’s still an idea that we’re a car dealer; we’re not, we’re a car retailer.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ferrari 812 superfast

A model of David’s first car, Ford Cortina Mark III

When asked about driverless cars, he says: “Electric cars are coming. It’s like the tide’s coming in at the end of the day; you can’t stop it. Thank God that we work for BMW, which is a brand that’s right at the forefront. We’re in the right place with the right brand. The range of hybrid BMWs is already in Europe and America. So, they haven’t got to start again, they’ve just got to bring the car to this market. We’re going to see a greater range of 3-series hybrid cars coming this year. But I think the gamechanger will be when we get something like X4, X5, X6 hybrid cars here.”

David’s first car was a Ford Cortina, Mark III, TEM 853M. But he’s come a long way since then, and although he makes light of his high-pressured job, others may disagree when he says: “Our job’s relatively simple – we sell cars and parts and we also fix things, and that’s about it.”

Making the most of his time here, David is enjoying the fabulous weather, the whole social scene, which is “unbelievably friendly” and safe. Most of all, the work-life balance, which he says is a lot more ‘in tune’ and family focused than in the UK. February 2018 51

motoringnews&launches

Celebrating in Style To commemorate three years’ inception of the first Land Rover Experience Centre in the Middle East, Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover is set to host a two-day event on February 23 (3pm-10pm) and 24 (11am-6pm), at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir.

The anniversary event, organised in collaboration with Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors Company, will consist of LRE Experience sessions for VIPs, representatives of the media, as well as current and prospective clients from both dealerships. During the event, Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover will also be revealing, for

the very first time in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, Jaguar’s first compact SUV, the E-PACE, along with the latest Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models.

The semi-finals of Jaguar’s Art of Performance Tour will be held for the second consecutive time in the Kingdom, which will include the Jaguar Dynamic Drive event, which is an opportunity for Jaguar prospects to drive the Jaguar range of vehicles on-road and on open Tarmac exercises managed by Jaguar’s qualified instructors. The winner of the semi-final will be sent on an all-expensepaid trip to participate in the grand finals later

this year.

There will also be a massive children’s section and guests can get their hands on a wide range of exclusive branded goods, available at affordable prices.

The Next Evolution Hyundai unveiled its next-generation Veloster and Veloster Turbo models at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, revealing the next evolution of the popular sporting model. The first-generation Veloster has proved itself as a popular choice for drivers wanting to set themselves apart from the crowd, and particularly among younger buyers. The fresh design was a collaborative effort of Hyundai designers from Seoul, South Korea, and the US design centre in Irvine, California.

The new Veloster maintains the car’s unique character but features a comprehensive exterior and interior redesign, powertrain enhancements, and a bevy of new and improved infotainment and connectivity features.

“This new generation ensures the Veloster remains a compelling choice, particularly for younger drivers who want a car that is individualistic as well as dynamic, while incorporating the latest

advances in engineering and technology,” says Mike Song, Hyundai’s head of operations for Africa and the Middle East.

The second-generation Hyundai Veloster will begin production in Korea in March, and is expected to arrive in showrooms during the second quarter of 2018.

Phantom Debut

Powerful Elegance

The new Rolls-Royce Phantom has arrived in Bahrain. Following its recent global debut in London, the new flagship of the luxury car manufacturer was presented at Euro Motors, the sole dealer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in the Kingdom.

The new Phantom features a spectacular bespoke advancement with ‘The Gallery’. An unprecedented new concept in luxury, The Gallery reinterprets the motor car’s dashboard for the first time in 100 years. Owners will be able to commission a truly individual work of art that spans the width of The Gallery and sits behind a single pane of glass in their new Phantom.

“With this new car a new benchmark has now been set,” says Euro Motors general manager Majed Al Zayani. “The eighth generation of its nameplate, the 2018 Phantom heralds a new luxury business model, demonstrating that Rolls-Royce operates in the luxury goods industry like no other.”

Following the World Premiere at the 2017 Dubai International Motor Show, the INFINITI QX80 has arrived in the Middle East.

Further advancing INFINITI’s market-leading presence in the full-size luxury SUV segment, the QX80 takes INFINITI’s ‘Powerful Elegance’ design language in a bold new direction, creating a powerful, contemporary and commanding aesthetic.

The new model has been created to meet the needs of today’s luxury car buyers, and introduces a more modern interpretation of upscale luxury to the full-size SUV segment. It will appeal to a buyer that wants for nothing: affluent, high-achieving entrepreneurs and business leaders, often with families, who demand space and utility, hand-crafted quality and modern design, and effortless on-road performance.

INFINITI Middle East managing director Markus Leithe, says: “The new INFINITI QX80 has been designed and engineered to allow customers to travel everywhere in luxury. With a host of enhancements, we are confident that the new QX80 will continue to be a cornerstone for our success in the region.”

52 February 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Setting New Records With deliveries of around 246,000 vehicles to customers worldwide, the upward sales trend continued for Porsche AG. The Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer has exceeded the previous record, set in 2016, by four per cent.

A significant boost came from roughly 28,000 deliveries of the new Panamera – an increase of 83 per cent compared to the previous year. “The hybrid models of the new Panamera, in particular, are very well received by customers, validating our product strategy,” says Detlev von Platen, executive board member responsible for sales and marketing at Porsche AG. In addition to the Panamera, the 718 models have significantly exceeded the previous year’s results, and the fascination with the 911 lives on, with more than 32,000 vehicles handed over to customers worldwide in 2017. However, the top-selling Porsche honour is retained by the Macan, with more than 97,000 vehicles delivered.

Detlev is optimistic regarding 2018, saying: “With our product range and the strong sales regions of Europe, Asia and America, we are well positioned.”

New Management

Markus Leithe

Juergen Schmitz

Nissan has announced key management changes to its leadership in the Middle East.

Juergen Schmitz is appointed as managing director of Nissan Middle East and Markus Leithe has been named as the managing director of INFINITI Middle East.

Juergen Schmitz brings more than 25 years’ experience in the automotive industry to the role. He joins Nissan from INFINITI Middle East, where he led the Nissan subsidiary from 2011 – first as general manager and then as managing director.

“I am delighted to be joining Nissan at an exciting time for the company in the Middle East,” says Juergen. “With Nissan’s leading role in the region, there are exciting opportunities for further growth, underpinned by our iconic and best-selling Nissan Patrol, our extensive line-up and our outstanding customer service.”

Markus’ expertise as a managing director in the automotive industry has been built on 20 years of international experience across Europe and the Middle East. ”I am excited to come on board with the INFINITI brand at an exciting time for the premium manufacturer,” he says. “The Middle East continues to play a strategic role for INFINITI and I look forward to continuing to grow INFINITI’s success in the region.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

New Pre-Owned Programme Euro Motors, the exclusive importer and distributor for luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover in Bahrain, now makes purchasing one of its masterpieces ever more appealing with the Jaguar APPROVED and Land Rover APPROVED certified pre-owned vehicle programme.

With an entire floor dedicated solely for Jaguar Land Rover APPROVED vehicles, customers can browse through and select their dream cars with absolute ease. Each and every APPROVED vehicle available at the showroom goes through vigorous inspection and testing before being put on display, hence prospective customers are assured that the vehicles are available in the best of conditions while being extremely affordable.

“A programme such as this enables us to meet the demand of the pre-owned vehicle market and facilitates in making Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles more accessible to everyone,” says Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover general manager Stephen Lay. “All the vehicles in this programme go through comprehensive testing, which includes a multi-point inspection that covers 165 mechanical, electric and safety checks.”

World Premieres The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) 2018 in Detroit saw leading marques showcasing their latest introductions. Amongst these were BMW and MINI. BMW celebrated two world premieres: the updated BMW i8 Coupe, and the new BMW X2. The BMW i8 Roadster First Edition also made its debut at the show.

The main focus of the MINI trade fair presentation at NAIAS was the new edition of the original in the premium small car segment.

There was a joint premiere for the new MINI Hardtop and the MINI Convertible. The update for the current model generation, which also benefits the MINI Hardtop 4 door, ranges from specific design modifications and innovative customisation options through to an extension of the equipment programme and the addition of the latest MINI Connected digital services.

February 2018 53

gadgets BTM brings you the latest gadgets to push your technological buttons.

RFID Cardholder Wallet Keep your details safe and secure with the Cardholder Wallet. Not only does it protect against unwanted reading of radio-frequency identification (RFID), but it can also hold up to six cards in the protected panel and looks good while doing it.

Available at www. menkind.co.uk

Perfect Bake Smart Scale

Camera Lens Travel Mug This is the perfect gadget for the travel photographers among us. This mug is not only ideal for transporting your iced or hot drinks, but it actually looks like a fully functioning camera lens complete with a detachable lid. Perfect for the home, office, or on the move.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk

With 2018 now in full swing, it’s the perfect time to start taking better care of your health with this Smart Scale. This highly sensitive and intuitive device auto-scales recipes for the number of servings you need, and comes with 300+ chef-tested recipes for you to try. The whole set includes the wireless smart scale, the app, three bowls, and a phone stand.

Available at www.amazon.com

Tablift Tablet Stand If you often find yourself unable to get into the perfect watching position when enjoying your favourite movies or TV shows, then the Tablift is here to help. Its universal design means it works well with any tablet, and the flexible legs can be folded down to a compact size, or out to be propped up on your bed, couch, or any other uneven surface.

Available at www.amazon.com

Tile Mate Never lose your keys again with this compact little Bluetooth tracker.

It attaches to just about anything, including bags, keys and other valued possessions. Or, alternatively, get the Tile Slim, perfect for wallets and passports, ensuring your peace of mind when travelling or just going about your day.

Available at www.thetileapp.com

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

Scratchmap of the World This is the ideal gadget for those bitten by the travel bug. This gigantic world map is covered in a gold foil layer so you can scratch off everywhere you’ve been, and even includes some facts about the countries you’ve visited. It also looks great framed and hung up in your home for all to see.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

The Master Pan Say goodbye to all of your inferior pots and pans. The Master Pan comes equipped with five split sections to keep your food separate, allowing you to cook an entire meal at breakfast, lunch or dinner, all in the same place. It’s lightweight, dishwasher safe, and works on all hobs, excluding induction.

Available at www.menkind.com

Business Laptop Backpack Whatever your need, this backpack will deliver. Multiple compartments allow for easy and clear organisation of your laptop, wallet, keys, phone, books, clothes and more. Comes with a built-in USB charger, as well as a theft-proof combination lock. It’s also made of water-repellent and eco-friendly material that is durable and light.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk

Star Wars BB-8 USB Car Charger Everyone’s favourite little droid returns to help you charge your electronic devices. This adorable robot plugs into your vehicle power adapter and provides you with two charging ports that can power up two tablets simultaneously.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

View more info online

February 2018 55

music

Asking Alexandria – Asking Alexandria What’s the story?

After a very brief period of identity crisis and vocalist turmoil, the members of Asking Alexandria reintroduced themselves with prodigal frontman Danny Worsnop returning on the band’s fifth full-length album, Asking Alexandria, after being replaced on the previous effort by Denis Stoff.

Worth a listen?

This eponymous return is the group’s most polished effort to date, less raw and muscular than past albums. While this evolution might prove divisive to long-time fans, Asking Alexandria remains highly enjoyable, a triumphant offering that benefits as much from familiarity as it does from pure power and Worsnop’s inimitable presence. Kicking off with a strong opening run of powerful anthems, Asking Alexandria wastes little time getting back into the groove with Worsnop. The urgent Alone In a Room highlights some new vocal directions – perhaps inspired by Worsnop’s work during his time away from the band – which incorporate more ‘80s arena-rock singing than ‘00s metalcore screaming. Meanwhile on Into the Fire (co-produced by Korn’s Jonathan Davis), the band reminds listeners that they can still pummel with a brutal grace, combining soaring gang choruses with Worsnop’s bloodcurdling bellows.

Overall, Asking Alexandria is a worthy return from the classic line-up, retaining the best aspects of its past and taking steps into its future.

Regardless of a stumble or two, Asking Alexandria is well worth a listen.

Verdict: Reinvigorated return with new singer.

Shorts

Frank Turner – Songbook Over the last 12 years, Bahrain-born, British singer-songwriter Frank Turner has built a rapport with his devoted audience. The bond between them is unbreakable and feels almost sacred. The double-length Songbook is an overview of the 2000s, and marks the anniversary of the arrival of his solo debut, Sleep Is for the Week. Disc one is, for the most part, a proper remastered overview of highlights from the 2000s. Disc two is the real gem, however, and it’s the one for seasoned fans. It offers 10 tracks – some repeats from disc one, and some different selections – that have been reworked, sometimes radically.

56 February 2018

Chris Stapleton – From A Room: Volume 2

Nick Garrie – The Moon and the Village

Stapleton doesn’t expand his sound on his latest effort, but instead decides to deepen his familiar style. He cranks up the guitars on Midnight Train to Memphis, evokes the ghost of Waylon on Hard Livin’, eases into the sunset on Scarecrow in the Garden, and simmers soulfully on Nobody’s Lonely Tonight. It’s a collection of moments and Stapleton isn’t crafting a major statement; he’s knocking out a bunch of songs that work on their own terms.

The Moon and the Village offers a pleasantly stripped-down version of Nick Garrie’s warm and melodic style. Though not quite as lush as his cult classic debut or as chorally driven as his previous effort, 2009’s 49 Arlington Gardens, there is a sweetness to these 11 songs that brims with personal narrative and storytelling. His voice, slightly deepened with age, is still resonant and effortlessly companionable as he frames a life of searching on the poignant Lois’ Diary and Music from a Broken Violin. www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games Review Game: PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds Rating:

What is it?

PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds is a multiplayer online battle royale game developed and published by PUBG Corporation, a subsidiary of Korean publisher Bluehole.

The game uses the 2000 film Battle Royale for inspiration, with elements from similar entries in the genre such as The Hunger Games.

PUBG drops players into a competitive survival battle where they engage in a heart-racing fight to be the last player left alive. Players loot supplies, find weapons and gear-up to take on the competition in a solo or team squad match.

Gameplay:

Verdict:

An exciting multiplayer rumble.

The result is a tight, focused, no-frills experience that’s as exciting as it is unpredictable, and where no two games are ever alike.

In the game, up to one hundred players parachute onto an island and scavenge for weapons and equipment to kill others while avoiding getting killed themselves. The available safe area of the game’s map decreases in size over time, directing surviving players into tighter areas to force encounters. The last player or team standing wins the round.

It’s a thrilling concept that keeps you on your toes and creates nerve-shredding and heart-pounding moments in equal measure. You don’t know who is around the next corner or where they’re hiding.

Graphics:

The two large maps aren’t the best-looking environments in gaming, but they do provide much-needed variety on the battlefield. Both the forested island of Erangel and the sunny desert of Miramar boast an assortment of small towns, large, dense cityscapes, and rural industrial zones ripe with loot. There are some parallels between maps so as not to restrict your options when you’re dropped randomly into either one.

Short

Monster Hunter World

Monster Hunter World introduces a living, breathing ecosystem in which players take on the role of a hunter who seeks and slays ferocious beasts in heart-pounding battles that unfold across the vast everchanging terrain. Retaining the series’ skill-based progression and robust crafting system, players gear up to venture on quests to seek and slay monsters, progressively improving their skills to become the ultimate hunter. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

In this epic role-playing sequel, explore an endless ocean of clouds, where the last remnants of civilisation live on the backs of colossal beasts called Titans. Experience the story of Rex and his new friend, Pyra, a mysterious being known as a Blade who grants him tremendous power.

Together, search for Pyra’s long-lost home Elysium, the ultimate paradise for all of humanity.

Fortnite

Fortnite is set in contemporary Earth, where the sudden appearance of a worldwide storm causes 98 per cent of the world’s population to disappear, with zombie-like creatures rising to attack the remainder.

It has up to four players cooperating on various missions on randomly generated maps to collect resources, build fortifications around defensive objectives that are meant to help fight the storm and protect survivors, and construct weapons and traps to engage in combat with waves of these creatures that attempt to destroy the objectives.

February 2018 57

websites VERDICT: A useful tool for health enthusiasts.

Chinese New Year MenuTasting Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay held a menu-tasting event for guests to sample Chinese New Year delicacies curated by chef Brian Becher at re/Asian Cuisine restaurant.

Site: www.twofoods.com Rating:

Talal, Kate, Paula, Amal & Sophia

What is it?

Two Foods is a food comparison tool that compares the nutritional data of two food items, so you can make healthier food choices. Basically, whenever you’re in doubt about which option to go with, check out this site.

The Good

Jiji & Mark

Rose & Dan

It couldn’t be any easier to use – enter a food item and then enter another food item in the box to the right, then click on compare. You can also compare food from restaurants as well, including fast food places.

Which one is healthier? A Big Mac from McDonald’s or a Whopper from Burger King?

The Bad

The site is minimalistic in design. It does what it says on the tin, but no more. It would be better if it could create diet plans or offer recommendations based on your searches. Sometimes, it’s fiddly to find the exact brand you want, too.

www.codepen.io/akm2/full/rHIsa Elena, Nicholas & Rocco

Lalain & William

Juan & Flaminia

58 February 2018

Ahmed & Rashid

Adam & Munira

Count Benedict & Marie-Gabrielle

This is a website based on cosmic activity. Once you are on the site, click anywhere to create a mass, and then click near to it to create another one, and watch as they attract to each other and create a single mass. This is a fun and educational site, teaching the laws of gravity and spacetime.

www.typedrummer.com Just type in something and it will make your letters beat. This interesting site lets you play drums while typing letters, and save different beats so you can create your musical masterpiece on your lunch break. www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

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

What is it?

inkl is an app on a mission to rid readers of clickbait articles, and to curate a stream of news that is trustworthy instead. It displays news that editors think is newsworthy and not because it caters to celebrity rubbish or what will sell ads.

The Good:

You can filter newsrooms that are most important to you so that your feed is always bringing you the articles that you want to read. It’s fast and has a very modern layout that is easy to use and ad-free.

The Bad:

Almost all of the sources are Western, so you don’t get viewpoints and articles from other cultures very often. It’s also English-language-only at the moment, although expansion is planned down the line. Many articles are also behind a paywall (albeit with a minimal charge to subscribe).

App: inkl Rating: Verdict: A superb and reliable news source.

App: Smart Wallpapers

App: Notification History Log

Looking to change up your wallpaper every now and then to add a little more life to your phone? Smart Wallpapers is the app for you. Using the app, you can have the wallpaper change based on almost anything – weather, the time of day, the Wi-Fi network that you’re connected to, and more.

Do you often accidentally swipe away a notification and aren’t sure how to get it back? Fear no more, as with this app you can simply open it up and you will see all your notifications, even those that you swiped away.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

movies

Film: Star Wars: The Last Jedi Rating:

Apollo Club Party

VERDICT: A hugely disappointing addition to the series.

Directed by: Rian Johnson Starring: Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Daisy Ridley

Al Safir Hotel and Tower held a Bottles & Models party at Apollo Club Lounge.

The Plot:

Rajesh, Faisal & DJ Shoni

Rey (Daisy Ridley) develops her newly discovered abilities with the guidance of Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), who is unsettled by the strength of her powers. Meanwhile, the Resistance prepares for battle with the First Order.

Worth Watching?

Maha, AJ & Jenny

Zarina & Jhay-Jhay

NK & NJ

After the excellent Rogue One and the early positive critic reviews that this movie received, it was expected to be outstanding. However, the pervading feeling after a viewing was disappointment. The plot is poor, important questions are unanswered or ignored, the humour misplaced and immersion-breaking, and it simply does not feel like an authentic continuation of the existing Star Wars universe based on characters established over more than 40 years.

Technically, it is a masterpiece: the special effects are fantastic. Visually, it is a stunning recreation and advancement of the original Star Wars trilogy (Episodes IV-VI). Most of the actors, particularly Hamill, produce a fine performance and John Williams’ score is as fantastic as you’d expect, too. Sadly, these aren’t enough for a Vader-esque redemption.

Woran & Zee

Darkest Hour

Andrea & Jemma

Rintu & Shawn

Mayef & Sara

Just & Rajesh

60 February 2018

Within days of becoming Prime Minister of Great Britain, Winston Churchill (Gary Oldman) must face one of his most turbulent and defining trials: exploring a negotiated peace treaty with Nazi Germany, or standing firm to fight for the ideals, liberty and freedom of a nation. With the threat of invasion imminent, and with an unprepared public, a sceptical king and his own party plotting against him, Churchill must withstand his darkest hour.

The 15:17 to Paris

In the early evening of August 21, 2015, the world watched in stunned silence as the media reported a thwarted terrorist attack on Thalys train #9364 bound for Paris – an attempt prevented by three courageous young Americans travelling through Europe. The film follows the course of the friends’ lives, from the struggles of childhood through finding their footing in life, to the series of unlikely events leading up to the attack. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

DJ Party Juffair Gate Hotel held a DJ party at Club LIV.

Julie & Greicy

DJ Riddler & DJ Nader

Ali & Mustafa

Parul & Orul

Dilip, Ajay, Ullas, Dinesh, Sanju & Robi

Boutique Opening Living in Wonderland boutique held its opening ceremony at Flagship Mall.

Sara, Debra, Wafa & Crystal

Talal & Yara

Robert & Jennah

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Khalid & Ibrahim

Felix, Hendrik & Sabine

February 2018 61

bystander

80th Birthday Party Adnan Sharabi celebrated his 80th birthday with family and friends.

Jenine, Hassan, Faye, Adnan, Bashir, Yasmin & Karima

Rashida, Anne & Liliane

Top: Abdul Rahman & Adnan Seated: Lynne & Faye

Faye, Noha, Adnan & Jenine

Mahin, Hassan & Hassan

Yasser, Sarah & Nahid

Jenine, Faisal & Sarah

Abdul Hussein, Nasreen & Henny

HE Taha Abdul Qader & Rihab

Jameela, Nijad, Annie, Gigi & Andrea Adel & Mona

Nadia, Karima, Nick & Samer

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Faisal, Yasmin & Aref

Ali & Shirley

www.bahrainthismonth.com

valentine’sfeature

Be My Valentine!

Gifts for Him

Polo S Watch – 42mm, Piaget Available at Piaget Boutique, Moda Mall.

It’s that time of the year again when Cupid is spreading his wings with bow in tow. Get your own ammunition ready and wow that special someone with these thoughtful pressies that are sure to melt your love’s heart!

Woven Scarf and Faux Suede Slippers, American Eagle Outfitters Available at The Avenues-Bahrain.

Mr. Burberry Eau de Parfum, Burberry Available at leading retailers.

Business Overnight Bag, Bentley Available at Ahmed Zayani & Sons Bentley Showroom, Khamis.

You Complete Me Couples Jigsaw Keyring Available at www. findmeagift.co.uk.

Woven Belts Hackett London Available at City Centre Bahrain.

Love Is Timeless Watch Box Available at www.personalcreations.com.

Mercedes-Benz Limited Edition G 500 4x42 Scale Models, Mercedes-Benz Available at Al Haddad Motors Showroom and the Service Centre.

Little Candy Hearts Tie and Head Over Heels Sock Available at www.ties.com.

Beard Maintenance Set Available at www.theartofshaving.com.

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Gifts for Her

Embellished Wallet and Clutch, CHARLES & KEITH Available at City Centre Bahrain and Seef Mall.

Black Stilettoes with Hearts, Nine West Available at City Centre Bahrain.

Poppy Heart-Shaped Sunglasses, Chloé Available at www.chloe.com.

Knot Eau Absolue, Bottega Veneta Available at leading retailers.

Lifelong Cuff, Swarovski Available at City Centre Bahrain.

Charms Keyring and Removable Strap, Longchamp Available at www. longchamp.com.

Small Black Calf Fireworks Hammock Bag, LOEWE Available at www.loewe.com.

Watch with Floral Motifs, Michael Kors Available at City Centre Bahrain.

Double Tier Maxi Skirt, American Eagle Outfitters Available at The Avenues–Bahrain.

Message Rectangular Bracelets and Rings, Tory Burch Available at City Centre Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2018 65

bystander

Dance Show Bahrain Ballet Centre presented Alice, its 35th anniversary dance show, at the Cultural Hall.

Hadeer, Inas & Tamer

A scene from the show

Ruqaya

Adel Fakhro, Mona Almoayyed, Nympha & Lynne

Sarah

Isabella, Emil & Julliane

Thomas, Ashish, Sherin & Solly

Store Opening Evershine Jewellery opened its new branch in ABC Mall, Juffair.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Grace & Anette

66 February 2018

Agnus & Romel

Shirley, Madel & Jhorie

Joey & Lorence

Thomas, HE Alfonso A Ver & Younis

www.bahrainthismonth.com

valentine’sfeature ASIA JEWELLERS

Gorgeous Gifts!

This Valentine’s Day, treat that special lady in your life with these stunning outfits and swoon-worthy accessories from Versace’s popular collections.

SUIT: Versace suit with gold-tone Medusa buttons SHOES: Black Palazzo high heels BAG: Black Palazzo empire bag ACCESSORIES: Versace eyewear – visor sunglasses, Palazzo necklace, tiger from home décor collection

CONTRAST RUFFLE KNIT BODYCON DRESS: Stretch, long-sleeved, knit dress with multicoloured layers.

Features hem and neck ruffles in a compact knit that sculpts the silhouette.

SHOES: Cross leather strap mules in midnight black with navy trim contrast

DRESS: Woven knee-length dress BAG: Metallic leather diamante shoulder bag BELT: Versace gold chain belt COAT: Versace eyelet coat BAG: Metallic stardust shoulder bag SHOES: Cross leather strap mules in midnight black with navy trim contrast

TOP: Split ruffle knit top WATCH: Palazzo white leather watch FURNITURE: Versace home collection SHOE: Strap-on laminated leather sneakers BAG: Metallic stardust shoulder bag JEANS: Low-waisted, straight leg, washed jeans

Available in Bahrain at Versace Boutique, Moda Mall.

Call 17 536-663 or follow on Instagram @ajfbahrain www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

VIVA Winter Wonderland VIVA Bahrain, in partnership with the fourth edition of Shop Bahrain, opened VIVA Winter Wonderland, a large outdoor skating rink located at Al Aali Shopping Complex.

Jay

Carla, Reem, Abeer & Mona

Yousef & Mohammed

Hana & Fatima

Shaikh Mohammed bin Ishaq Al Kooheji & Mohammad

Students Felicitation Sir Syed Educational & Cultural Society Bahrain held its annual students felicitation function at Ramee International Hotel.

Aslam, Ahmad & HE Dr Fatema A J Al Kooheji

Talha, Sidva & Falak

Arshiya & Nilofar

Simran, Mohammed & Farooq

Waseem

Aptha, Ramesh & Babitha

Mubashir & Majeed

Suresh & Ramya

Pongal Celebration A Pongal celebration organised by Rajini Makkal Mandram—Bahrain, took place at the DIVA Hotel.

Suresh & Sudheer

68 February 2018

Shrushi, Sheena, Sudheer & Pragirthi

Savithri

www.bahrainthismonth.com

valentine’sfeature

SHARIF GROUP

A Time of Love The glam rock soul of this brand brings the worlds of men and women closer together in a cool and nonchalant complicity, as seen in these chic timepieces that make for a perfect Valentine’s Day gift.

The Just Cavalli 2017 Spring Summer Time and Jewels Collection reflects Cavalli’s commitment to be a unique fashion icon and the ‘leader of the pack’. Embodying the bold, classy and sexy design elements that are a signature of the fashion icon, the collection uses fine materials to create watches and jewellery that bring style and class to every occasion. As a tribute to Cavalli’s heritage and DNA, the various lines – Glam Chic, Rock, Animal, Logo and Relaxed – mirror the versatile nature of Just Cavalli.

GLAM CHIC Intricately designed with fine-quality materials, the jewellery and watches exude an air of effortless elegance and glamour. Classic, stylish and bold, it’s the perfect choice for a statement piece for all occasions, whether you are going casual or formal, for a day out or for an evening soirée.

ROCK Rock, freedom and rebellion have always been at the heart of Just Cavalli. Using lightning as the motif for its jewellery sets and studs for its watches, the playful design and fresh aesthetics add an exuberant feel to the urban wardrobe, which befits the youthful and the sophisticated. Create your own independent style, as you collage the ready-to-wear Rock collection together with your fashion items, to create a unique and edgy look. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ANIMAL This line, that embraces the iconic motif of a snake by Robert Cavalli, symbolises beauty and perpetual youth. The entwining snakes lend an exotic sensuality to the jewellery sets and accentuate a feminine appeal. The watch collection is a tribute to Cavalli’s love for animal prints and combines the use of bright, vibrant fabrics and leather in a way that is bold, intuitive and creative. The distinctive features and striking look of the pieces make it the perfect accessory to spice up a casual outfit, or add that final touch to your party dress.

LOGO Daring and colourful, this collection is an embodiment of Just Cavalli not only in its logo and iconic snake motif, but also in its fashion statement. The confidence in mixing different ornaments and styles makes each of the pieces feel sexy, free and contemporary.

RELAXED Stylish, comfortable and laid back at the same time, this gorgeous line’s masterful designs are classic but with a hint of eccentricity that echoes the Just Cavalli style. For example, the subtle use of snakeskin pattern in the small details adds a spark to the otherwise elegant design of the jewellery. Shades such as brown, bronze, steel, yellow gold and rose gold are easy to wear, and to mix and match with both your business, casual or party attire.

The collections are available in Bahrain at all A La Mode outlets.

Call City Centre Bahrain on 17 179-854, Seef Mall on 17 580-200, Moda Mall on 17 534-646 and Enma Mall on 77 333-555.

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bystander

Madan, Ajun, Anu, Raj & Siji

Birthday Party Mitali celebrated her ninth birthday at a party with family and friends.

Remya, Madan, Mihir & Mitali

Sreebhadra, Hiba, Mitali, Soumya & Keerthana

Sumi, Valsa, Remya, Dhanya, Manju & Siji

Shari & Jeebu

Tim & Madan

Deanna & Florine

Sanjay

Birthday Party Frank Ryde celebrated his 60th birthday with wife Deanna and friends.

Shemiah, Deanna, Frank, Sandy & Hemal

Nelu & Shemiah

70 February 2018

Mahesh

Rev Fr Leo

Oswald, Darlene & Roberta

Amanda & Kathy

George, Gigi & Anne

www.bahrainthismonth.com

valentine’sfeature LIALI JEWELLERY

This Valentine’s Day

Shop for over BD250 and get a box of chocolates. Spend over BD500 and Liali will deliver a bouquet of roses straight to your beloved's doorsteps.

Valid until February 17 on purchase of gold and diamond jewellery.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2018 71

valentine’sdining

Romance on the Table The time for heart-shaped candy, bouquets of flowers, gorgeous gifts and, of course, candlelit dinners is here again.

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, the air is filled with hearts a-flutter. The joy in celebrating your precious bond is doubled when done over a romantic meal. BTM brings a plethora of options to woo your special someone!

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Treat your sweetheart to an unforgettable romantic dinner at the Azure Pool, in an airconditioned cabana you will savour a personalised menu, including carefully crafted dishes and beverages of choice and shisha, as mesmerising guitar tunes set the mood for a memorable evening. The dinner ends with a complimentary, decadent heart-shaped cake and is priced from BD120++.

The dazzling re/Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck offers a special four-course menu priced at BD45++ featuring mouthwatering Asian specialties.

Couples looking to make a statement this Valentine’s Day can dine in true celebrity style at the critically acclaimed CUT by Wolfgang Puck, with an elaborate four-course menu priced at BD45++.

Call 17 115-046.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Enchant your loved one with the limited-edition ‘Romeo & Juliet’ Valentine’s cake. Pre-order this red-glazed, exquisite treat from February 1-7 at the Ritz Gourmet Lounge. Each comes with a personalised note to your Juliet or Romeo, for BD50.

The Ritz Gourmet Lounge offers sweet delicacies from February 5-15, and a three72 February 2018

The Azure pool at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

course dinner on February 14, from 7pm-11pm at BD25++ per person.

Cantina Kahlo presents a five-course romantic dinner with beverage pairings at BD35++ per person, while La Plage’s private five-course candlelit dinner for two costs BD190 with table seating on the Seabreeze Veranda, or BD300 if seated on the Private Island.

Primavera’s four-course dinner for two is priced at BD38++ per person, while the one at Plums costs BD45++ per person.

Thai Lounge’s special Valentine’s Sushi Platter costs BD15++ per person and the Lobby Lounge offers a ‘You Are My Cup of Tea’ special menu, including a mini Valentine’s cake for couples, priced at BD21++ per person.

Call 17 586-499.

With scenic views overlooking the swimming pool, Royal Thai has an exotic four-course set menu inclusive of selected beverages at BD50++ (regular) and BD46++ (prestige) per couple.

La Pergola invites you and your loved one for an intimate dining experience in true Italian fashion, accompanied by bubbly and a rose for your sweetheart, for BD56++ (regular) and BD50++ (prestige) per couple.

A night of Arabian exotica awaits you at Zahle, with a delicious set menu, complimentary welcome beverage, a longstemmed red rose for the lady and the rhythms of earthy Lebanese music and belly dancing to make it a magical night, for BD50++ (regular) and BD46++ (prestige) per couple.

Call 17 713-000.

Gulf Hotel Bahrain Delight your Valentine with a sumptuous fourcourse candlelight dinner in the elegant setting of Rasoi by Vineet, accompanied by romantic tunes, complimentary bubbly and a red rose for the lady. Regular price is BD58++ and prestige price is BD52++ per couple.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Fiamma restaurant offers you a night infused with romance in an atmosphere complete with heartwarming tunes from your favourite Cuban band, Timeless. You will be serenaded with fivestar fare from an exclusive Valentine’s set menu.

Tapas restaurant’s Red Light Night will be a www.bahrainthismonth.com

BD32 per person. Woo your lady with a symbolic red rose, and as a couple pop a balloon to win instant prizes.

Call 17 460-017.

Teatro Downtown at Downtown Rotana

thrilling evening full of life, love and a special guest DJ to energise your spirit. Follow the dress code to highlight your relationship status as you party up an exciting Valentine’s celebration.

Call 17 636-363.

The Westin Bahrain City Centre The Mezzanine Lounge offers a Valentine’s Day special four-course set menu at BD35++ per couple, from 7pm-11pm. Guests can also enjoy the meal in the romantic set-up of a private booth (limited space available) at BD50++ per couple.

Call 17 171-000.

Cucina Italiana Enjoy a special four-course menu including fine Italian delicacies like Zuppa di Zucca soup, Osso Buco E Gremolata, and Branzino Col Risotto Alla Zaffron E Funghi. Desserts, such as Torta al Formaggion Con Fragola E Mirtillo, are a perfect rounding out of an amorous meal.

While dishes can be ordered separately, the Valentine’s Dinner Package, priced at BD45 including a bottle of grape, with romantic table decorations, is a perfect option.

Call 17 001-317.

The K Hotel The all-day dining Kolors restaurant will be decorated with rose petals, balloons and candles, and will serve a special Valentine’s Day dinner buffet with home-made gourmet chocolates and a glass of sparkling grape per person, for BD20 per couple. The hotel’s resident band, Duo Totem, will entertain you with romantic tunes from 9pm-11pm.

Call 17 360-000.

The Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Silk’s Restaurant is geared up to give you a memorable Valentine’s dinner, where its intimate atmosphere will come alive with soulful strains of the violin. The delicious fivecourse set menu, paired with grape, is where seasonal ingredients come together in an exquisite presentation of delicious dishes from land and sea, rounded off with a stunning chocolate-inspired dessert menu, priced at www.bahrainthismonth.com

Downtown Rotana Gift your special someone the most romantic Valentine’s dinner at Teatro Downtown. The mood will be set for a fantastic evening of love from 6pm to midnight. Savour a five-course set menu for only BD36++ per couple, inclusive of soft drinks, or BD48++ per couple including selected beverages. Prepare to be mesmerised by the smooth music of the saxophonist’s live performance.

Call 13 119-999.

Café Amsterdam Relish a delicious three-course menu for BD45++ per couple including a glass of sparkling grape per person at this popular restaurant in Adliya.

Call 32 000-177.

La Vinoteca Barcelona The night is made all the more amazing with the restaurant’s three-course menu at BD55++ per couple, which includes a glass of sparkling grape per person.

Call 32 000-171.

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art This venue has a dreamy night in store this February 14. Guests will enjoy a sumptuous dinner and be enthralled by a live piano performance by Japanese musician, Mina, who will be playing romantic pieces by Martini, Elgar, and Liszt, and opera arias. The set menu costs BD45+ per couple or BD25+ per person.

Call 17 230-123.

The Domain Hotel and Spa Let your love be expressed through sound with a captivating evening replete with French musical masterpieces reincarnated from composers of Parisian origin. The fourth edition of the City of Love concert, by celebrated musicians Michelle Miles and Erika Nottingham Rawles, will be held on February 15, followed by a lavish Valentine’s dinner. The evening costs BD30++, including a welcome beverage.

Call 36 557-995.

Crowne Plaza Bahrain Spices, the Indian restaurant, will host a Valentine Special Buffet, rife with authentic flavours of India, from 4pm-11pm for BD12, with selected soft beverages.

Waves restaurant offers a three-course dinner with a glass of grape for BD14, from 4pm-11pm.

Call 17 531-122.

Ramada Manama City Centre Patio, the contemporary international restaurant, gives you a perfectly designed set menu, echoing the essence of the day. The three-course meal gives diners tasty options and is priced at BD20 per couple. There’s also a sweet Valentine’s treat in store.

Call 17 104-050.

View more info online

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

February 2018 73

bystander

Maria & Antoney

Michelle & Raafiq

Mo & Svenja

Suaad & Ashwathy

Lounge Opening Hazel Rooftop Lounge Bahrain held its soft opening at its premises in Adliya.

Hans, Antoney, Jalil Al Ansari & Svenja

Fatima, Nasreen & Nasreen

Malwina & Natalia

Eman & Mo

Arti & Rohit

Amy & Peter

Ronnie & Nina

Opening Gathering Park Regis Lotus Hotel held a preopening gathering at its premises.

Jo, Jayamohan & Navin

Prasad, Arun, Navin & Shihan

Anish, April, Resmie & Carlo

74 February 2018

Satheesh, Navin & Easom

Yohan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

valentine’sdining THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

My Sweet Valentine

Cantina Kahlo

This eminent five-star luxury establishment is going all out this month with offers galore so you can impress your significant other in elegance and style.

Spa

Gourmet Lounge

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Love and romance fill the air as Cupid comes to town at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, inviting couples, families and spa-goers on a romantic journey of culinary and spa experiences.

From overnight packages, to a limited-edition ‘Romeo & Juliet’ cake, private island dining experience, five-course menu at Cantina Kahlo, a chocolate heaven spa experience and more, it’s everything over-the-top and indulgent this month.

On February 14, a true night of romance beckons as the award-winning restaurants dim the lights for a romantic setting for two. Greeted with a rose and a warm smile, guests can choose from a five-course menu by chef Cesar De Leon Torres at Cantina Kahlo, with beverage pairings. Relish a signature Mexican affair of braised lamb, shrimp ceviche, butternut squash soup and main course of braised veal served with red mole sauce, ending with a blushing finale of strawberry and vanilla mousse postre. It is priced at BD35++ per person, from 7pm to midnight.

For candlelit dinners overlooking the sea, La Plage sets the scene for romantic dining at Seabreeze Veranda (BD190) and Private Island (BD300), where five courses excite the palate, with starters of panseared scallops and mains of prime tenderloin and Omani lobster ravioli, from 7pm-11.30pm. Cabana seating is also available for BD100.

Primavera and Plums also arouse the senses with four courses of savoury dishes and signature service for a perfect night of tasteful indulgence. Dinners are priced at BD38++ per person at Primavera and BD45++ per person at Plums, from 7pm-11pm. For

afternoon tea lovers, Lobby Lounge celebrates love with a special ‘You Are My Cup of Tea’ menu including a mini Valentine’s cake for two. It is priced at BD21++ per person, from 3pm-7pm.

Exclusive this Valentine’s Day, guests can enchant their special loved one with a limited-edition ‘Romeo & Juliet’ Valentine’s cake, available on pre-order from February 1-7 at the Ritz Gourmet Lounge. Sealed with a kiss, the red glazed, diamond-cut, heart-shaped cake comes in its own perfectly crafted luxury box and features four heavenly layers – starting with a rich chocolate sponge cake base, followed by a crispy layer of praline and pâte feuilletée, a liquid layer of raspberry and ginger purée and French premium Valrhona dark chocolate mousse. Priced at BD50, 14 boxes of this indulgent cake will also be available on Valentine’s Day (February 14) on a first come, first served basis, including a personalised note to your Juliet or Romeo.

Spa-goers can also celebrate love the whole month long with the ‘Sweet Love Affair’ package. Enjoy 90 minutes of heavenly pleasures with a revitalising chocolate scrub, relaxation massage and a Ritz Gourmet Lounge cheesecake to end the session in pure decadence. It is valid from February 1-28, priced at BD75.

With romantic experiences just a click away, overnight packages such as Half Board Deluxe are a perfect pairing to enjoy a pleasurable weekend.

Experience an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room, an energising swim in the resort’s new outdoor heated pools, wellness activities at the Royal Beach Club, breakfast at La Med and BD35 dining credit, per night.

For a more exclusive stay, guests can reserve one of the luxury seafront villas, each with three bedrooms, its own infinity pool, beach access and 24-hour butler service. The offers are valid until March 31, starting from BD158++ per night.

Call 17 586-499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant. reservations@ritzcarlton.com February 2018 75

valentine’sdining

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

A Love Paradise

Drift away to an oasis in the Arabian desert and sink into a fairytale-worthy Valentine’s Day experience at this serene haven away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Celebrate this month of love with Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Bid adieu to city life and venture on an amorous journey, designed for indulgence with your special someone and celebration in absolute peace and serenity.

To start off the festival of love, the Italian hot favourite, Fiamma, and the award-winning seaside French seafood restaurant, La Mer, have both prepared a special appetising set menu, in honour of St Valentine. Enjoy your evening with live entertainment from a Cuban band, that will serenade the night away, satisfying dishes and a romantic ambience.

Tapas is also taking part in celebrating love with an energetic Red Night Light, complete with live music, a guest DJ and an exciting game of colour to show your relationship status. A green shirt means you’re single and ready to mingle, orange is for open relationships, and red says you are taken.

Join in the fun and switch to party mode on February 14 for a night of magnetic energy. If you wish to take it down a notch and portray your affection in a more intimate way, then there are special beachside arrangements designed with a romantic flair, just for you. Re-spark the flame and ignite your souls with a private candlelit dinner by the beach, with a special Valentine’s set menu in your private cabana.

Alternatively, you could opt for the Valentine’s exclusive couple’s treatment in the Middle East’s only thalassa sea and spa.

Pashawat is breaking tradition and giving you a

chance to rekindle and celebrate your love infinitely, with a heartwarming set menu for couples, throughout the month, with mesmerising live entertainment featuring exotic belly dancing and top Arabic tunes.

Saraya, on the other hand, is dedicating February 16 to all the soulmates and lovebirds with a special Valentine’s-themed brunch. Bring your significant other and step into a culinary world of complete satisfaction, with live cooking stations and live entertainment, dedicated to making this day one to remember.

To top it all off, a very romantic Valentine’s room package, starting from only BD105 for a Luxury Room, with grand sea views, dinner at Fiamma restaurant and breakfast for two, is on offer to make the experience extra magnifique! Also on offer is the exclusive Valentine’s Cabana Suite Package, which includes a private dinner by the beach in your very own cabana and the lavish Prestige Suite for the couple, with breakfast buffet next day, all for only BD250.

For those who are taking a pause from love and waiting for Cupid to work his magic, don’t fear, for Fiamma is here. Enjoy a Sicilian adventure filled with authentic Italian dishes with explosive flavour, culture and live entertainment at a Sicilian Festival, being held from February 18 to 28. You and your loved ones are in for a genuine cultural treat that will be taken outdoors for a special street edition on Thursdays.

Call 17 636-363.

February 2018 77

valentine’sdining

GULF HOTEL

A Month of Excitement February offers a whole host of happenings at this popular five-star property.

Chinese Celebrations With its numerous outlets, there is always something going on at the Gulf Hotel and this month brings a range of exciting events to help you celebrate some very special days.

The award-winning China Garden goes all-out to mark the Chinese New Year welcoming the Year of the Dog, from February 5 to 16, with 12 days of special lucky foods as well as traditional New Year signature dishes all prepared by chef Ding.

The spotlight stays on China Garden from February 21 to 25 with a visit from Chinese celebrity chef Jeff Tan Seng Han who will take diners on a culinary journey through this huge and diverse country. He’ll also be conducting a special exclusive masterclass for kitchen enthusiasts on February 24 priced BD39 with lunch.

overlooking the turquoise waters of the outdoor swimming pool, Royal Thai will create the perfect setting for secluded romance. From unspoiled views to exceptional service, lovebirds will discover that Royal Thai is the perfect place to unwind and connect with one another over an exotic four-course set menu inclusive of selected beverages priced at BD50++ per couple (regular) or BD46++ per couple (prestige).

Margarita Mexicana Warm, festive and generous, the Margarita Mexicana team are known for ensuring guests have a good time. The restaurant will have a special set menu with a complimentary round of house margaritas to get the party started!

The price is BD46++ per couple (regular), BD42++ per couple (prestige).

A Loving Plate With the most romantic time of the year upon us, the Gulf Hotel has lots of offers for date night with that special someone.

Fusions Ignite the flame of passion over an intimate dinner and share a four-course menu along with a glass of bubbly and a rose for the ladies as you enjoy the panoramic view of the city lights. The price is BD56++ per couple (regular), BD50++ per couple (prestige).

Royal Thai Experience romance at the award-winning Royal Thai restaurant. Tucked away by the Typhoon Lawn in the hotel’s tropical gardens and complemented with scenic views

Rasoi Delight your Valentine’s date with a sumptuous candlelight dinner in an elegant setting accompanied by romantic tunes, complimentary bubbly and a red rose for the lady. The price is

78 February 2018

BD58++ per couple (regular), BD52++ per couple (prestige).

La Pergola Head down for an intimate dining experience in true Italian fashion accompanied by bubbly and a rose for the lady. The price is BD56++ per couple (regular), BD50++ per couple (prestige).

Zahle A night of Arabian exotica awaits you and your loved one at Zahle, with a delicious set menu, a complimentary welcome beverage, a long-stemmed red rose for the lady and the rhythms of earthy Lebanese music and belly dancing to ensure a magical night. The price is BD50++ per couple (regular), BD46++ per couple (prestige).

China Garden Indulge in authentic dishes in an intimate atmosphere. The price is BD50++ per couple (regular), BD46++ per couple (prestige).

If you want to find a sweet treat for your loved one, head to Café Delice where you’ll find an array of heart-shaped cakes served with the tea or coffee of your choice.

And if you want to make a night of it, book the Gulf Hotel’s exclusive room package at BD100++ inclusive of dinner at Fusions or La Pergola.

Call 17 713-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

RAMADA MANAMA CITY CENTRE

Say It with Dinner This chic eatery, located in one of Bahrain’s most renowned hotel establishments, welcomes couples to spend a magical evening together in honour of Saint Valentine.

Patio, the modern, international dining outlet at the prestigious Ramada Manama City Centre Hotel, offers a stellar curation of culinary gems to celebrate the special day of love.

Couples may choose to enjoy the ultimate Valentine’s Day three-course set meal (including a special dessert and drink or soft beverage) for only BD20 per couple, from 6pm-11pm.

Start off the romantic repast with starters that whet the appetite. Choose from crunchy Prawn Toast, served with lemon butter sauce, or Chicken Hawaii salad, a fine mix of diced roast chicken served with pineapple, cream cheese, celery and onion. If you prefer soup, choose the light and fragrant Vegetable Consommé.

For the mains, there are three lip-smacking options to select from. The Red Snapper Fillet is

grilled to perfection and accompanied by steamed vegetables and sweet and sour sauce.

Tortellini Mushroom with Creamy Sauce is pasta filled with three kinds of cheese, served in a rich sauce, topped with fresh mushrooms.

For a meaty relish, choose the Steak Diana – grilled Angus beef served with mashed potato and vegetables.

Round off a satiating meal with a surprise sweet Valentine treat fit for the occasion. With

such mouthwatering food and spectacular views of the water and the Manama city skyline, this will be an evening that will be cherished forever.

Call 17 104-050, email patio@ ramadamanama-citycentre.com or follow Instagram @patiobh

Quresh, Fawaz & Shabir

Wok Station Opening Wok Station opened its second outlet at the Platinum Tower in Seef.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Roohi, Razia & Anisa

Tariq, Mohammed Dadabhai, Ebrahim, Tahir & Aziz

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fatema & Ahmed

Aziz

February 2018 79

valentine’sdining

Cucina Italiana

Bennigan’s

BAHRAIN FAMILY LEISURE COMPANY

A Tasty Selection This company offers diners a range of options across its various outlets including a romantic Italian menu for Valentine’s Day.

80 February 2018

Cucina Italiana is a truly unique concept operated by Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC). With an unshakable passion for the Italian lifestyle from the cuisine to the décor, this bistro brings class and style to casual dining.

To mark the most romantic day of the year, there’s live music and a special four-course menu including Zuppa di Zucca, a creamy butternut squash soup with chicken meatballs; mixed green salad with sliced pepperoni; Osso Buco E Gremolata, slow-cooked veal osso buco on a bed of saffron risotto, with mushroom, asparagus and grimulatta; or Branzino Col Risotto Alla Zaffron E Funghi, pan fried sea bass on a bed of saffron risotto with mushroom, asparagus and lemon butter sauce; and, for dessert, Torta al Formaggion Con Fragola E Mirtillo, homemade strawberry and cranberry cheesecake. While the dishes can be ordered separately, there is a special Valentine’s Dinner Package priced at BD45 including a bottle of grape, with table decorations of flowers and candles.

Cucina Italiana takes great pride in delivering the highest quality menu prepared with only the freshest and finest hand-picked ingredients, making the dishes nothing less than delicious. Every mouthful is made from fresh vegetables, succulent meat, hand-tossed dough and superior-quality tomato sauce and served with genuine Italian passion, bursting with the true flavours of Italy. This eatery is a place you can walk into with your family, colleagues and friends and have a delicious dish of pasta, the finest and tastiest wood fired pizza, drinks or a superb premium espresso experience.

Since it launched in the Kingdom in 2001, under the umbrella of BFLC, Bennigan’s has offered diners a unique combination of American cuisine coupled with a special brand of Irish hospitality, providing the ideal place to spend time with friends and family relaxing in the upbeat, fun atmosphere.

Widely renowned, with locations around Bahrain, Bennigan’s in Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, has a choice of delightful meals to suit every palate and is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu features something for everyone – great-sized portions, taste and value for money guaranteed.

Bennigan’s is the perfect place to blow off steam, catch a game, celebrate or just chill with friends and enjoy the live music. To bring that atmosphere closer to home, Bennigan’s home delivery offers a full menu direct to your doorstep. And recently BFLC has opened a new branch of Bennigan’s in Amwaj Islands offering the same hearty portions, homecooked taste and signature dishes, such as The County Clare Sampler – a combination of nachos, Hogan’s Egg Rolls and Dubliner quesadilla – or the Big Irish gourmet burger.

Both Bennigan’s and Cucina Italiana have regular special offers. And Cucina is known for its annual Italian Masterchef competition which sees enthusiastic amateur foodies battling it out for the famous black apron.

For the future, there are big plans with BFLC looking to expand and develop new concepts and offer additional services across the Kingdom. www.bahrainthismonth.com

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Romance and Prizes Head to this five-star favourite for the perfect romantic evening.

Silk’s restaurant at the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain is known for its fresh produce and luxurious atmosphere, making it the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved one.

It will be a night to remember as the friendly, knowledgeable staff serve up a sumptuous five-course set menu paired with specially chosen grapes.

Seasonal ingredients come together in an exquisite presentation of delicious dishes from land and sea, rounded off with a stunning chocolate-inspired dessert menu.

The already intimate atmosphere, with comfortable, cosy surroundings and views out to the lights of the city, will be enhanced with tunes from a violinist, and each of the ladies will receive a red rose, the eternal symbol of love.

Prior to their departure, each couple will pop a balloon for the chance to win instant prizes of hotel vouchers including a two-night stay for

double occupancy including breakfast at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers.

Silk’s is all about fine food, great atmosphere and service to provide an exclusive dining experience – what could be more perfect for your Valentine’s Day dinner?

The evening is priced at BD32 per person.

Call 17 460-017 or email hotel.bahrain.fb@ movenpick.com to reserve a table.

If that special romantic evening leads to a proposal, the Mövenpick has you covered with a special wedding package blending the very best of Arab traditions and Swiss hospitality. Book 60 days prior to your event date to receive 25 per cent discount on any of the wedding packages.

Call 17 460-028.

Winter Warmer Liz O’Reilly found that this Swiss venue knows how to serve up a classic dish to combat the cooler weather.

I needed no second bidding when the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain said “Come try our fondue.” After all, who can resist the lure of creamy melted cheese on a windy island evening.

My companion and I were shown to a window table in the recently refurbished Silk’s restaurant, which, with its cool grey and silver décor and sparkling orb lamps, is both intimate and trendy.

It’s possible to order separate starters such as a salmon or ham platter but we decided to go for the set menu for two, which includes an appetiser of thinly sliced, air-dried beef over a crisp garden salad with apple and pomegranate dressing. The sweetness of the pomegranate delicately contrasted with the rich flavour of the beef – a perfect fresh and light introduction to the main event. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The burner lit, the bubbling fondue pan was carried to our table with great aplomb and we tucked in, enthusiastically dipping chunks of fresh French bread into the bowl of creamy, melted Appenzeller, Gruyère and tomme de Savoie cheese.

Lightly flavoured with white grape, the cheese is a triumph of warmth – texture, flavour and scent speaking of snowcovered Alpine villages.

We did choose to add the optional kirschwasser, a traditional cherry brandy, but I actually preferred the cheese without, revelling in the pure, rich taste and aroma.

The serving for two of us was huge and we could happily have sat for several hours to finish off the whole pan; this is comfort food at its very best, seriously warming and eliciting smiles from both face and belly.

We finished our meal with fresh fruit tart and strawberry sorbet – again, light fresh flavours, the perfect end to a meal that would be too heavy with a more traditional dessert.

February 2018 81

valentine’sdining THE K HOTEL

A Lovely Escape

This Valentine’s Day, treat your loved one to a luxury hotel stay at this famous landmark in the heart of the city.

The K Hotel offers a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the occasion this February. Take advantage of the hotel’s irresistible Valentine package, which gives you a complimentary night’s stay when you purchase three nights in a Deluxe room.

If you wish to go the extra mile, you could upgrade yourself to a Junior Suite, and enjoy a romantic breakfast and lavish dinner for two.

Couples can savour a set menu in-room or dine at Kolors restaurant. It’s the perfect way to enjoy panoramic views of the city, take in the luxurious facilities and relax in the plush environs of the property.

“The Valentine Suite Package is offered from February 14-16, and is an experience that will leave you and your loved one with unique memories,” says Volker Mandlowsky, the hotel’s general manager.

This romantic escape is made more special with a 20 per cent discount at R&S Spa and Salon and a 20 per cent discount on Thai massage at the Body Care Spa. Followed by pampering with the very best of regional and international gastronomy at Kolors restaurant.

The all-day dining Kolors restaurant will be decorated with rose petals, balloons and candles. The venue specialises in 82 February 2018

contemporary cuisine with a regional touch serving a special Valentine’s Day dinner buffet with home-made gourmet chocolates and a glass of sparkling grape per person.

This special treat, created by the executive chef, is priced at BD20 per couple and BD12 for a single person. The hotel’s resident band Duo Totem will entertain you with romantic tunes from 9pm to 11pm.

The K Hotel has long maintained an enviable word-of-mouth reputation for its value, sophisticated level of service, flexibility and expertise at virtually any cuisine.

Katering Kreation is aimed at people with a passion for service and excellence, meeting or exceeding guests’ expectations by creating and delivering a memorable experience from start to finish.

By seamlessly blending food, ambience and service, staff aim to create an experience that is stylish and of the highest quality.

The hotel can accommodate, indoor and outdoor, medium groups or functions; its five banquet rooms on the third floor – which are beautifully upgraded and have a unique style – are an attractive choice for smaller events.

Large windows on both sides overlook the Arabian Sea and at night the view sparkles with lights from the boats in Mina Salman.

If you’re planning outdoor events, The K Hotel is an ideal choice. Seasoned professionals will help organise your celebration, from offering vendor

recommendations to day-of-event coordination.

Several packages, as well as customised menus, are available. Various cuisines, including Indian, Continental, international and Middle Eastern can be provided.

The K Hotel team takes care of everything; not only can staff customise one of the allinclusive packages to fit your budget and style, the event manager will assist you during all stages of planning, providing continuous on-site contact throughout the entire event.

The team of experts guarantees that every function is organised according to professional standards. And organisers have the opportunity to choose from a vast array of cocktails, hot and cold buffets or à la carte lunches and dinners combined with an international beverage selection.

A spokesman says: “Ultimately, we succeed when your event shines.”

Call 17 360-000 or email info@thekhotel.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

valentine’sdining

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

A Romantic Time This iconic resort has a slew of promotions to look forward to this month.

84 February 2018

With its unmistakable identity, Al Areen Palace & Spa is a quick getaway from city limits, whether it be for dining out or a relaxing staycation. The property offers the very best of Arabian hospitality, in an environment that spells grandeur and sophistication.

The month of February will be a busy one at the hotel, in light of all the exciting offers to be taken advantage of.

Saffron, the property’s signature restaurant serving modern Khaleeji and fusion dishes from the subcontinent, will host a Pakistani Food Festival on February 2, as well as February 16, which will be attended by Pakistani Ambassador, His Excellency Javed Malik. The Basant kite festival will be held on February 17 at noon, followed by dinner at the restaurant. The lavish buffet features authentic Pakistani delicacies to select from, at just BD12++.

Saffron boasts a beautiful ambience, with a high ceiling and furnishings in maroon and gold, giving the space a touch of royal splendour. Guests can enjoy the spectacular view of the resort’s grand outdoor pool as they are entertained by soothing ‘ghazals’ (poetry).

The venue will have a Bonfire, Barbeque and Movie Night every Thursday throughout February, from 7pm to 11pm, featuring unlimited barbequed items by the poolside and screenings of famous films, for BD12++.

Guests can take advantage of the ‘buy 1 get 1 free’ shisha offer.

Keizo will be gearing up to welcome lovebirds on Valentine’s Day, February 14. This South-East Asian dining outlet will be the perfect location to spoil your special one with a sumptuous five-course set menu, as the violinist makes the sparks fly with his soulful tunes. The romantic evening, resplendent with

gastronomic delights, is priced at BD14++.

The restaurant will be celebrating the advent of the Chinese New Year between February 9 and 13. Guests can order à la carte from the special menu, from 7pm to 11pm. A grand Oriental buffet will be staged on February 15, priced at BD13++. There will also be a live noodle station and guests can add their preferred vegetables, meat and chicken. To add to the merriment, diners stand to win spa and restaurant vouchers from the Special Fortune Box. Those born in the Chinese Year of the Dog will be given a 30 per cent discount.

Al Areen Spa has something special in store for those in love this month. Purchase the Valentine’s Couples Package for BD90++ to escape the limits of time and share the experience with your significant other. Refresh your mind and soul with this 120-minute session, including a 30-minute chocolate milk bath and an hour-long body massage, with personal blended oil, suited to your liking. This offer is valid until the end of February.

Call 17 845-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ladies Luncheon Henny Dawani held a luncheon with friends held at My CafĂŠ.

Monique, Angela, Faye, Heather, Rashida, Andrea, Henny, Aida, Liliane, Lynne & Jo

Koffee with Kawther Manama Toastmasters celebrated the first Bahraini lady Toastmaster, Dr Kawther Al Taitton, during a coffee morning at her residence. Club president, Sheela Pai, thanked Dr Kawther for her active and continuous contribution over the last three decades.

Seated from L to R: Abdulrahman Al Awadi, Kawther Al Taitoon & club president, Sheela Pai, with club members

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DINING

this month

Fit to Feast On, p88

A New Favourite, p90

A Taste of the Ocean Liz O’Reilly samples the delicate flavours at this beachside favourite fish restaurant.

A trip to La Mer at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is always a treat and never more so than when you’re offered a sneak peek at the work-in-progress Valentine’s special dish.

My companion had her heart set on scallops to start and I asked the chef to prepare his own recommendation for me. Neither of us was disappointed.

The scallops were cooked to perfection and served with a deliciously light sauce of white grape, lime and butter – so subtle was the flavour that neither she nor I could put our finger on the exact ingredients. But then, when coming up with an accompaniment for scallops, it’s essential not to smother their own delicate taste.

My starter was probably the dish I would have chosen myself – prawns grilled with garlic and chilli.

Meaty and firm with the flesh just the right side of chewy, you could taste the freshness coupled with the heat and kick of the chilli and the portion size was perfect – enough to whet the appetite without being overfilling.

Chef then sent out some sea bream with lemon and thyme. Again, perfectly cooked with a delightfully firm texture and the flesh flaking on our forks. We could barely taste the lemon and thyme, simply noting a faint hint to bring out the flavour of the fish.

The aforementioned Valentine’s special arrived at the table with great aplomb and chef came to explain that www.bahrainthismonth.com

his inspiration for the dish had come from sitting on the Sofitel’s pretty seashore. Beautifully arranged with flashes of red, in a nod to the colour of love, we were presented with a cornucopia of seafood from mussels to red mullet smoked in chicory wood, sole and scallops presented in a roll and even peas fashioned from smoked salmon.

I’m sworn to secrecy on the exact preparations as the dish is still very much in development; enough to say though, should you choose La Mer’s wonderfully romantic waterside setting for your Valentine’s outing, you’ll be in for a varied fishy feast.

The final preparation to the table was, of course, dessert. Again, the chef’s recommendation and one that is always a particular favourite of mine – crème brûlée accompanied by a delicious raspberry sorbet.

Apparently, according to chef, crème brûlée is very simple to make but anyone who’s tried will know this is not strictly true. Getting the texture right is, in my view, an art form. It needs to be firm without drying out and this one ticked all the boxes. Just the right amount of vanilla – I’m a purist and not a great fan of all the flavours people seem intent on adding to a dish that’s already perfect – and topped with a delicious coating of burnt sugar. Perfection.

Afterwards we popped downstairs to Tapas to listen to the Latina band, which proved to be the perfect way to round off the evening. I’m sure that, come Valentine’s Day, they’ll be serenading lovers with their South American beats.

A Striking Culinary Encounter, p92

Table Hopping, p95-96

View more info online

February 2018 87

dining

LUMEE

Fit to Feast On BEHNAZ SANJANA With culinary debutants that give a nod to flavoursome, healthconscious eating, this restaurant’s street food delicacies are fit for the upper crust.

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You know that feeling when you’re trying to watch your diet but crave a laid-back afternoon or evening catching up with friends? Well, Lumee, the contemporary-chic restaurant that serves lipsmacking Middle Eastern cuisine with an intriguing twist, has just unveiled some new, healthy dishes on its menu that will allow you to dig in without despair.

What’s a MiddleEastern spread without hummus?

Lumee’s new Green Hummus is blended with eight fresh herbs. Try it with freshly baked chickpea flatbread – the earthy flavours of thyme, tarragon, dill, basil and cilantro, among others, make it a virtuous treat that also cleanses and freshens the palate.

In stark colour contrast is the Muhammara, a fiery red-brown mass that will make your palate salivate at first glance. The aroma of fire-roasted red bell peppers, walnuts and pomegranate echo the exotic Levant. It’s nutritious, too, so you can ditch the guilt as you scoop it up.

If you can’t decide between fattoush and taboule, there’s Fattoule, a creative combination of the Arabic favourites with the best of both worlds – finely chopped greens topped with crispy pita bits and pomegranate seeds, with the zesty sumac bringing out all the flavours beautifully.

The almond and flaxseed crackers topped with a fragrant roasted mixture of aubergine, bell peppers, baby marrow, mushroom and onion crumble in the mouth as you enjoy the charred taste.

The star of the salad section is probably the Grilled Spicy Chicken Salad. The chargrilled meaty essence of the fire-roasted romaine lettuce along with the succulent, slightly spicy chicken breast completely take over the senses. Cherry tomatoes, wholegrain croutons and sour cream dressing give the dish a variety of texture.

Although the cold starters and salads are complete meals in themselves, a look at the main course options will make you drool. Lumee’s Kofta Malaban is all about tender parcels of lamb wrapped in goldenbrown flatbread, sitting in a creamy base of fresh yogurt, topped with izma salsa and tomato sauce. The Lamb Sliders and Veal Chelo Kabab are probably the moistest meat you’ll have ever bitten into, and the well-marinated Chicken Tikka will grab your attention with its medley of saffron and spice. The Taht El Eish looks like a thick medallion of thin potato slices which, when broken into, divulges slow-cooked lamb and rice – perfect comfort food for the season.

Gluten-free Pistachio Cake is the ideal way to round up your meal. It’s loaded with real pistachio and the rose mascarpone cream gives it a sense of naughtiness.

What’ll send you straight to sweet heaven is the Saffron-Mango Cheesecake. This is a dessert to die for – dices of fresh mango, crunchy sesame snaps and a centre that’s light and not overwhelmingly sugary sweet.

With the right balance of tradition and fusion on an impressive menu, delightful flavours and a stylish ambience, Lumee ticks all the boxes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between.

Call 17 694-848. www.bahrainthismonth.com

WOK STATION

An Asian Expansion This street-style eatery has launched its second outlet – in the heart of Seef.

Since making its debut in Bahrain in January 2017, home-grown Asian restaurant Wok Station has become one of the hottest tickets in town.

Now, after an encouraging response to the first outlet in Galleria Mall, the second outlet has opened at Platinum Tower, Seef.

With a trendy, casual, street-style ambience, Wok Station uses high-quality, healthy, farmfresh ingredients to offer an internationally influenced menu inspired by cuisines from China, Japan, Korea, Myanmar and Thailand.

The food and the interiors are inspired by Southeast Asian street style, creating a casually sophisticated dining experience in a modern, chic yet comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

“Wok Station is here to satisfy Bahrain’s craving for bold flavours, new experiences and convenience,” says chef Chen, who designed the menu and has added an exclusive ‘Chen’s Special’ to appeal to connoisseurs.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

“We use fresh produce, delectable aromatics and exotic spices to create everything from flavourful wok dishes to delicate dim sum,” he adds.

The mission of community welfare is at the heart of the restaurant, which encourages and supports local farmers and enterprises.

Wok Station lets guests create their own dish with a unique and interactive ‘Create Your Wok Menu’. A full à la carte menu is also available, ranging from soups, salads and appetisers to dim sum, wok signatures, desserts, beverages

and a premium selection of teas.

Enhancing the street-food vibe there’s an open kitchen with panels of colourful neon mood lights and abstract graffiti on the walls.

The restaurant can seat up to 54 diners indoors and 40 guests in the alfresco area and is well suited to host small gatherings, celebrations or corporate events.

Call 77 571-571, visit wokstationme.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @ WokStationME.

February 2018 89

dining CORAL BAY RESORT

A New Favourite This popular resort has added a new dining option to its extensive repertoire.

Coral Bay Resort has announced the opening of its new restaurant, Blue Water Grill, offering sumptuous steaks, fish dishes and more, 24 hours a day.

Located in the fully renovated upper section of the resort, formerly known as Fishmania, Blue Water Grill is a new dining experience that’s bound to prove popular. Offering a serene atmosphere, the restaurant features clear glass façades to show breathtaking views over the Arabian Sea. The new concept provides the freshest and widest selection of seafood and steak throughout the day.

And the varied menu offers everything you ask for, from breakfast, lunch and dinner to tasty snack options to ensure you will not be disappointed.

Coral Bay Resort’s dining experience offers the best of all worlds. They know there are times when guests want an opulent meal in a five-star restaurant; other occasions when hungry diners will opt for Italian-style cuisine in more relaxed surroundings; and then times when you simply desire a bowl of French fries on the beach. Now, Blue Water Grill is open 24 hours and completes the resort’s extensive offering.

The choice is all yours. From delicious Italian fare at La Taverna Restaurant to freshly grilled fish or steak, now available at the Blue Water Grill, it’s guaranteed, you will never be out of dining options.

Also discover spices and fresh flavours from Lebanon every night with dinner at Rayés Restaurant and be on the lookout for the scrumptious buffets which are on offer throughout the week – it’s the perfect opportunity to sample a diversity of native meat dishes accompanied by a variety of vegetables, salads and exotic fruits as well as tasty desserts.

And on sunny days, there’s nowhere better to tuck into a healthy lunch or simply chill at the unique Infinity pool bar.

Visit Coral Bay Resort and forget your troubles while listening to the rolling waves and relaxing in the warm and therapeutic sea waters. Indulge in the island’s best Lebanese food as you enjoy the beautiful sea views over the marina.

Dance the night away or simply laze away your weekend on the beach, soaking up the sun. Pump iron in the unique gym, just inches away from the white sandy beach, or rejuvenate at the top-class spa.

Explore and discover a location with all the exoticism of a tropical island but all the convenience of a top-of-the-range resort.

Call 17 312-700.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sandi Thom Live Scottish songstress, Sandi Thom, performed at Bahrain Rugby Football Club to raise money for the homeless and abandoned animals living with Tony the Dogfather.

Sandi Thom

Faisal & Abdul Wahab

Linda & Eman

Lisa, Helen, Brian & Liz

Lizanne & Susan

David & Ratna

Samiya, Pranav, Aiman & Jaylyn

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2018 91

dining RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA

A Striking Culinary Encounter

Sous chef Raman Udas

Ruka

With a philosophy of liberated Japanese cooking, this restaurant offers a fantastic fine dining experience.

92 February 2018

Ruka, the chic eatery perched high at the statuesque Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa in Seef, serves food that echoes a strong respect for tradition and craft, offering innovative dishes that have a clear and distinct personality.

Although a majority of us still equate this FarEastern cuisine with sushi, the variety of fare available to discerning palates is growing. In the 1990s, the popularity of sushi spread from the US across the world, riding the wave of the exotic health food boom, becoming a widely accepted nutritious, low-calorie food. At the turn of the century, Japanese gastronomy came to be regarded as premium dining.

An increasing number of diners became willing to pay more for food where fresh ingredients and the chefs’ finesse is vital.

This particular style of Oriental cookery takes a simple approach, using seasonings such as miso, mirin (sweet cooking sake) and soy sauce to incorporate ‘umami’ (savoury taste), and finds a perfect point where they blend. This is why it appeals to a large number of people. Today, this cuisine is becoming even more popular internationally, with a constantly expanding array of choices ranging from

udon and soba noodles to deep-fried tempura, yakiniku (grilled meat), yakitori (char-broiled chicken), kaiseki-ryori (traditional multi-course meal) and more.

Ruka has a fine selection of these comfort recipes and a great deal of care is taken in preparing them.

The menu here is much more than alternative versions of dishes that guests may have sampled at other venues – it is, almost entirely, a compilation of specialities unique to the restaurant. The selection is comprehensive and alluring; dishes are authentic but not traditional, underlined with bold, intense flavours and an emphasis on simple presentation, acquired through quality ingredients.

The skilled hands in the kitchen believe that a meal with no surprises is a culinary experience lost and a potentially memorable dining occasion wasted. Order something unfamiliar, and the outlet strives to offer you a novel experience of relishing contemporary Japanese food.

There is no set protocol of ordering from the menu; dishes are designed to be shared at the table or enjoyed individually. The servers will happily explain the various choices available and provide guidance based on dietary requirements.

The month of February sees some amazing offers at the outlet – from Sushi Mondays, Happy Hours and a lively Ladies’ Night to Business Lunch and Saturday’s Hangover Brunch. Definitely not to be missed is the Valentine’s Day extravaganza with a delicious sharing set menu of meticulously prepared food and beverage wonders by sous chef Raman Udas.

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa puts a great deal of care and effort into making sure that your expectations are far exceeded at Ruka, where great food, a beautiful ambience and positive vibes will make your meal one to remember for a long time to come.

Call 17 111-999. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining AL SAFIR HOTEL AND TOWER

Sumptuous Treats This hotel looks forward to delighting patrons with new culinary offerings.

Al Safir Hotel and Tower is a four-star deluxe property located in the heart of Juffair, in close proximity to the US naval base. It offers 187 rooms in various categories: deluxe single, deluxe double, executive single, executive double and imperial suite. Its popular dining outlets, Savoy Café, Bennigan’s and Cucina Italiana, are hot favourites among food connoisseurs. Apollo Club Lounge, Rich Club and Encanto Sports lounge are frequented by nightlife enthusiasts.

The establishment has a few more exciting food and beverage happenings planned. The Friday Poolside Brunch commences from February 9. Guests can look forward to a family-oriented weekend affair by the hotel’s poolside. The highlight will be a big buffet selection and plenty of special games to keep the kids entertained.

Let your senses be tempted to indulge in an incredible array of mouthwatering dishes from around the world, paired with selected house beverages. Experience the art of dining, with international delicacies prepared with heart and soul. The live cooking stations on-site will showcase authentic Middle Eastern, Asian and Western fare, with a focus on the freshest and best ingredients. The brunch is priced at BD12++ (including soft drinks), or BD18++ (inclusive of house beverages).

Savoy Café

The business lunch at Savoy Café is available at an incredible rate of BD5 per person. Another offering at this elegant outlet is the ‘Kebab and Brew’ promotion, where guests can enjoy a juicy selection of homemade kebabs and selected brews.

Call 17 827-999.

Digital Aquarium Oasis Mall Riffa launched Bahrain’s first ever digital aquarium at its premises.

Kunal, Terence, Kaizad & Mohammed

Rameez, Rasha, Duaa & Vivek

Mulla, Sofi & VJ MP3

Apollo DJ Night Al Safir Hotel and Tower hosted its Outlandish party at Apollo Lounge.

Maryam, Mulla, Sofi, VJ MP3, DJ Riddler & Reema

94 February 2018

Perry & Yana

Mohammed & Venorika

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

CHINESE NIGHT MARKET On February 16, re/Asian Cuisine will stage a Night Market with live cooking stations, creating an authentic market atmosphere in celebration of the Chinese Year of the Dog. Chicken and wagyu beef soup dumplings are followed by roasted whole duckling served with bao buns. The lo mai yurn – sticky rice with local lamb and tangerine puree, will perfectly prepare your palates for ‘The Five Blessings’, including the scrumptious Szechuan chilli lamb dumplings, venison buuz, king crab crystal chive dumplings, beef and prawn chiu chow and roasted root vegetable dumplings.

Several live stations will showcase delicacies such as aromatic roasted duckling, Chinese New Year dumplings, flat chive rabbit sausage, and longevity noodles, among other festive dishes. End with Chinese rolled ice cream in green tea, chocolate and litchi flavours along with sweet fruit dumplings filled with pear, tangerine and toasted sesame. The evening is priced at BD42, including beverages.

From February 17-28, the restaurant will offer special five- or seven-course Chinese New Year tasting menus, that will include a generous dim sum plate with chiu chow, dan dan and XO shrimp dumplings, wagyu beef pot stickers, Hong Kong-style black bass served with shitake mushrooms, filet of beef Sichuan au poivre with wok-fried green beans on the side, and a mouthwatering dessert duo. The five-course menu costs BD35++ and the seven-course menu BD50++.

Regular à la carte items will also be available.

Call 17 115-046.

CULINARY MASTER IN TOWN The Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s China Garden will showcase dishes by the award-winning guest chef, Jeff Tan Seng Han, from February 21-25. With 28 years of diverse culinary experience in the food and service industry, chef Tan has served as chef de cuisine at Hakkasan Mayfair London, UK, for 10 years.

“We look forward to welcoming chef Jeff to Bahrain,” says executive assistant manager Charbel Hanna. “China Garden has been the choice of Chinese food lovers both in the Kingdom and the GCC, and we continue the culinary legacy for our patrons and guests.”

Chef Tan will also be hosting a cooking master class on February 24 for BD39 per person, inclusive of lunch. Welcome the Chinese New Year at Bahrain’s awardwinning China Garden restaurant at The Gulf Hotel, from February 5-16. The celebration features special, lucky traditional dishes with the creativity and signature touch of chef Ding.

Call 17 713-000.

LUNCH WITH NATURE

When? Ongoing Event? Introducing the Hot Chick’n Venue? Shake Shack Enjoy a crispy all-natural chicken breast dusted with a paprika and cayenne pepper blend, topped with spicy slaw and pickles, starting at BD2.500, for a limited time period.

E Call 17 110-389.

When? Every Day Event? Magical Milkshakes Venue? Furn Bakery, The Westin Bahrain City Centre Indulge in a selection of signature milkshakes all day in a unique atmosphere and enjoy specials from the bakery display.

E Call 17 171-441.

When? Every Day Event? Cut on the Hour Venue? CUT, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Enjoy a two-course business lunch in 60 minutes with your choice of tea or coffee at BD14++, noon to 3pm.

E Call 17 115-044.

When? Every Day Event? Afternoon Tea Venue? Bay View Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Quality tea and gourmet bites, from 3pm-9pm, at BD15 per person or BD28 for two.

E Call 17 115-046.

When? Every Monday Event? French Night Venue? La Mosaique Restaurant, The Crowne Plaza Bahrain French buffet featuring beef bourguignon, fresh salads, cheese and more for BD13 (food only), 7pm onwards.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? Every Thursday Event? Barbeque Night Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa presents Pique-nique in the Park Venue? La Med, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain every Saturday, from 12.30pm-4pm, for just BD10 per person.

Savour a variety of tender meats Enjoy blue skies with blissful greenery and complimentary access to the beach smoked to perfection, house-made sauces, salads and dessert buffet as you relish the delights of a basket arranged with a selection of salads, sandwiches, homemade muffins and pound cakes. An à la carte beverage menu for BD20++ with soft drinks, or BD25++ with selected beverages. is also available.

E Call 17 586-499.

Call 17 636-363.

MEAT TREATS Enjoy a stylish, yet rustic, barbeque buffet on the terrace of Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre’s Baharat every Wednesday from 7pm-11pm. Bite into the best barbequed ribs and tenderloin steak as you listen to live music from the vibrant South African duo, The Deux Song. The buffet costs BD20, including soft drinks and water, or BD24++ including selected free-flow beverages.

Call 17 171-144. www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? February 1-10 Event? Malaysian Street Food Week Venue? Soie, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Relish authentic flavours with special Malaysian dishes.

E Call 17 533-533.

February 2018 95

RELISH FRESH TASTES A new menu at Signature Grill, Capital Club Bahrain, combines local ingredients and international flavours that tantalise the taste buds.

Adding jarjir and fennel to the main ingredients – goat cheese, kale, eggplants and fish, all sourced locally – head chef Miklos Hübler has brought a Bahraini touch to each of his dishes, which are wholesome, healthy, and carry a unique flavour.

Using fresh produce from Peninsula Farms, and the expertise of chef Miklos, the Signature Grill has launched a new and eclectic menu that caters to the different tastes that make up the gastronomy in Bahrain.

The menu is designed so that dishes can be shared, featuring soups, starters, mains (vegetarian, seafood and meat) and desserts, incorporating the freshest of ingredients to produce a wholesome menu that satisfies various palates.

“I visited a farm located in a small village in Karana, where I met a third-generation family of farmers producing exquisite and fresh vegetables,” says chef Miklos.

As well as using the homegrown ingredients in the dishes adds local flavours to the food, Capital Club is also keen on working with Bahraini farms towards the same end goal of promoting the use of local produce and supporting local businesses.

Call 17 100-100.

A WIN-WIN DEAL

Take advantage of a plethora of food and beverage offerings every day of the week at Novo Cinemas – the leading innovator in entertainment. Movie-goers will receive a BD2.500 gourmet dining voucher when purchasing a ticket to the luxury seven-star cinema on any day. Watch a movie on a Tuesday to receive free snacks on the next visit. Get a free super-sized upgrade on selected combos with an IMAX ticket on Wednesdays. On Saturdays, children under the age of 12 receive free ice cream with the ‘youthful’ movie offer.

Visit www.novocinemas.com/bahrain/.

FRIDAY INDULGENCE Enjoy an award-winning, international Friday brunch, from 12.30pm-4pm, every weekend at Gallery Lobby, Silk’s restaurant and the Flamingo bar at the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain. Mouthwatering fare, a live cooking station and beverages such as margaritas, mojitos, Irish coffee as well as unlimited grape and malt are available throughout the hotel. Kids can enjoy the ‘play and draw’ corner with delicious and healthy kids’ menu, face painting and entertainment.

The brunch is priced at BD36 per person including unlimited drinks.

Call 17 460-017.

BUSINESS MEETS PLEASURE

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s signature Italian restaurant, Primavera, offers a two-course business set lunch by two-Michelin-starred chef Oliver Glowig. Diners can choose either one starter with one main course or a main course with a dessert. Enjoy a relaxing lunch, with beautiful views over the landscaped gardens and the poolside, for BD9.500++ per person, including soft beverages, from Sundays to Thursdays, noon to 3pm.

Call 17 586-499.

SPLENDID SHELLFISH Enjoy the new Crabs and Oysters-themed Friday Brunch throughout the month of February at the award-winning restaurant Flavours on 2 at the Downtown Rotana. It is available for BD18++ with soft drinks, or BD26++ with selected beverages. There’s a selection of freshly grilled treats for meat lovers too. The buffet features Oriental, Asian and Western fare, as well as sushi, sashimi and desserts. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment and free pool access. Children are sure to have a wonderful time, with their own modern, supervised kids’ room filled with toys and games.

Call 13 119-999.

96 February 2018

When? February 1-28 Event? It’s Mussel Time!

Venue? Fusion Restaurant, Gulf Hotel Bahrain Experience a fusion twist to seasonal mussels by a talented culinary team.

E Call 17 713-000 When? February 5-28 Event? Executive Lunch Set Menu Venue? Sato, Gulf Hotel Bahrain The all new ‘Speedy Lunch’ set menu – guaranteed to have your meal ready in 15 minutes, costs BD10.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? February 9, Event? Bahraini Farmers Market Venue? Croquet Lawn, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Shop farm-fresh produce, dates and spices, savour the flavours of a traditional Bahraini breakfast, and enjoy face painting, henna and a petting zoo for children, 8am-2pm. Free entry for all.

E Call 17 586-499.

When? February 9 Event? Beauty & the Beast-Themed Brunch Venue? La Mosaique Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Bahrain A special brunch with free pool access for the family for BD31, and BD8.750 for kids aged seven to 12.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? February 12-27 Event? Éclair Festival Venue? Macaron & Lobby Lounge, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Try out the home-made, creamfilled French treat for the ultimate sweet satisfaction.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? February 15-16 Event? Chinese New Year Venue? Teatro Downtown, Downtown Rotana Enjoy a family-style set menu featuring traditional favourites, with live entertainment, BD18++ including soft drinks. Chinese nationals enjoy a 20 per cent discount.

E Call 13 119-999.

When? February 18-28 Event? Sicilian Cultural Festival Venue? Fiamma, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Experience Sicilian culture with traditional dishes and live Italian performances. Enjoy a special street edition of the festival on Thursday.

E Call 17 636-363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Perfect Pearls Enrich your jewellery collection with this stunning piece from MAJORICA. Offering traditional craftsmanship with an exceptional design, these long, French wire earrings are silver rhodium-plated, with 8mm to 11mm round, white pearls and zircons.

Available at A La Mode outlets.

Boys Meet Girls TOM FORD Beauty presents BOYS & GIRLS, a wardrobe of 100 clutch-sized lip colours with names inspired by the individuals in Tom Ford’s life. The full line-up ranges in texture from cream, matte and metallic to sheer and ultra-rich finishes, and can be layered or worn alone to suit every personality and mood.

Available at leading retailers.

Scent of the City HUGO Parfums unveils a new cologne, HUGO Urban Journey, set to encourage millennials to explore the city at their doorstep before venturing into the world.

With energising top notes of hidden Himalayan whorl flower, heart notes of intense, aromatic black tea and a base of gaiac wood, this limited-edition fragrance oozes masculinity and confidence.

Available at leading retailers.

New and Edgy Marni’s voluptuous new women’s semi-rimless ‘Starlight’ sunglasses are designed with multiple unique rounded effects and flamboyant embellishments. The resulting illusion of the three circles is a sophisticated reference to the House’s iconic jewellery collection.

Available in red or white with brown or grey lenses.

Available at Grand Optics, City Centre Bahrain.

Winter Warmers Christmas might be over but it’s still a bit nippy out there. Cosy up with these seasonal essentials from American Eagle Outfitters. Have fun with cute animal beanies and quirky light-up ones. With gloves to match – you’ve got to have them!

Available at American Eagle Outfitters, The Avenues-Bahrain. www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2018 97

marketplace

THE WESTIN AND LE MÉRIDIEN BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE

A Stay with a Difference The sister establishments in this sprawling hotel complex sport their own unique character, but both offer amenities par excellence to guests.

98 February 2018

World-renowned hospitality brands, The Westin and Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre are located only a short distance from the international airport and an hour’s drive from Dammam and Al Khobar. They spell convenience for both business and leisure travellers, being close to the major tourist attractions and directly connected to the country’s most prominent mall.

Positioned as the island’s urban retreat, The Westin offers innovative programmes and revitalising amenities. Guests can experience the Westin wellbeing promise, and leave feeling better than when they arrived.

Multinational corporates, group travellers as well as those in the luxury retail segment make for repeat clientele. The property is a firm favourite amongst family travellers over for the weekend from Bahrain’s neighbouring regions.

The marque understands that behind every reservation is an individual guest with a unique set of needs.

Customised care and attention for each visitor to create an intimate and individualised experience is, therefore, one of its core values. Besides delivering on the pledge to leave guests feeling renewed and rejuvenated, staff are trained to intuitively and proactively recognise and respond to guests’ every need.

The property has made a mark for itself with its 200 spacious rooms and suites, featuring the signature Westin Heavenly bed, Heavenly bath and shower and white tea amenities. The seven meeting rooms are flooded with natural light, and the Heavenly Spa By Westin boasts the largest hammam on the island.

There is also an outdoor infinity swimming pool,

Jacuzzi and kids’ pool for ultimate fun and recreation.

The 260-room Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre features timeless design that pays homage to the brand’s Parisian heritage. The curious and openminded are invited to unlock a series of rewarding discoveries at the hotel. Prior to check-in, guests walk through the ‘Arrival Artwork’ and discover the ‘Hub’, Le Méridien’s re-interpretation of the traditional lobby, where they are transported into a stimulating space of handpicked local art. Longitude 50 café is where expertly crafted, speciality Illy coffee can be enjoyed, perfectly paired with delicious éclairs.

The chain’s core values centre around culture, focusing primarily on the arts and cuisine, infusing these passions at every available touch-point with guests. This sophisticated, refined and forwardlooking establishment provides guests with an element of discovery, allowing them to see things from a fresh perspective.

It is little wonder then that the property is much in demand by corporates, tour operators, family groups as well as by residents for hosting social events.

The six bright and open meeting rooms are ideal for business gatherings or official purposes. Baharat, the dining outlet, is popular with the locals for the delicious fare it offers. The restaurant hosts a special Barbeque Night on Wednesdays and Seafood Night on Thursday evenings. The venue is lively with weekenders every Friday, for its award-winning Sweetest Brunch.

Call 17 171-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER – KING ABDULLAH MEDICAL CITY

Medical First for Bahrain Groundbreaking spinal surgery was performed at one of the Kingdom’s foremost hospital facilities.

An elderly Bahraini underwent a life-changing operation using local anaesthetic at the University Medical Center of King Abdullah Medical City – the first time such a procedure has been carried out in this way.

Orthopaedic surgeon Dr Yousif Sharaf operated on the 80-year-old patient who suffers from several health disorders. The man had experienced severe back pain extending to his left leg, which rendered him unable to walk and move freely. Severely restricted mobility, particularly at this age, can lead to chest infections or clots in the foot or leg.

Dr Sharaf pointed out that the patient was also suffering from chest problems, including asthma and lung inefficiency, which could have proved dangerous if general anaesthesia was used.

The operation, which went well, lasted around 30 minutes during which a small incision,

www.bahrainthismonth.com

measuring 5cm, was made in the patient’s back to remove the spinal disc herniation that was putting pressure on his nerves.

Dr Sharaf (pictured in surgery) says: “Based on the assessment of the patient’s general health, it was necessary to carry out the operation with local anaesthesia, despite the difficulty of this measure, since the operation site is a sensitive

area of the spine surrounded by nerves, requiring the patient’s complete relaxation.

“The operation went smoothly and the spinal disc herniation was removed from the third and fourth vertebrae. The patient began to gradually walk in under 24 hours.”

Call 77 310-000.

February 2018 99

marketplace ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Love Your Legs This hospital provides the perfect solution to an unsightly condition that women often complain about.

Spider or thread veins are thin red or purple blood vessels, 1-3mm in width, running close to the surface of the skin. Medically called telangiectasia, the condition affects approximately 40 per cent of women. It is different from varicose veins, which are larger and run deeper within the skin.

The causes are heredity, weight gain, prolonged standing or sitting, the use of certain medications (like oral contraceptives and chemotherapy), constrictive clothing, pregnancy, liver cirrhosis and hormonal shifts caused by puberty, birth control pills, menopause and hormone therapy.

Facial thread veins can also be caused by tight-fitting glasses, squeezing spots, smoking and over-exposure to the sun, wind and cold.

The Nd YAG laser is most widely used to treat this problem. It emits a specialised light, which passes through the skin and is absorbed by the haemoglobin in the unwanted vessels. This light energy is converted into thermal energy, and the heat coagulates the blood, destroying the function of the vein. Over time, the vein is reabsorbed into the body and

Dr Reeti Malhotra

Dr Ramesh P

is no longer visible.

One procedure is often sufficient to achieve complete results; severe cases may require two or three treatments, approximately six weeks apart.

Dr Reeti Malhotra, aesthetic dermatologist, and Dr Ramesh P, plastic and reconstructive surgeon, at the Royal Aesthetic Centre, Royal Bahrain Hospital (RBH), are experts to consult for more information on the matter.

RBH provides affordable, safe and competent care to its patients, in keeping with the highest international standards. It has been recognised by the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards International (ACHSI) and accredited with the ‘diamond status’ by Bahrain’s National Health Regulatory Authority.

Call 17 246-939 or 17 246-857.

ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

True Jazz

Bahrain’s first authentic jazz bar and bistro wows crowds with fantastic entertainment and service.

Coda Jazz Lounge, located at the Atiram Premier Hotel, is the brainchild of DJ, event organiser and entrepreneur Damian D’Costa, who has brought this popular concept from the high-end nightlife scene of Europe and the US to Bahrain.

The outlet has a unique design that resonates with this musical genre. Coda Jazz Lounge opened its doors to the public in December 2016 and, since then, has hosted the island’s crème de la crème, who appreciate good music, food and drinks in an ambience like no other. The upmarket venue has made its mark as one of Bahrain’s most exclusive and classy night spots.

Dihann Moore and the SheGroove Band from New York perform at the outlet five nights a week, supported by DJ Danzel John, who plays the best in disco, jazz, soul and funk. The entertainment is fantastic – perfect for a 100 February 2018

mature, sophisticated audience. The interiors have been designed around a special sound system for guests to experience live melodies, just like at a concert, but with the benefit of socialising comfortably.

The New York-styled bistro menu is of the highest quality and has been designed by a top chef from Manhattan. The cocktail list has been carefully curated to keep the classic feel with a modern twist, at extremely competitive prices.

The friendly service is top-notch, receiving excellent reviews from customers.

The lounge hosts exciting theme nights throughout the week, apart from Sundays. On Mondays enjoy a two-course meal inclusive of unlimited grape for BD15 per person or get 50 per cent discount on the à la carte menu.

International guest jazz bands, artists and DJs visit every month to keep the crowds enthralled.

Call 34 342-828, email gr@codajazzlounge. com or visit www.codajazzlounge.com, codajazzloungebahrain on Facebook or codajazzlounge on Instagram. www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE AVENUES-BAHRAIN

Bahrain’s Latest Waterfront Mall This grand, newly opened shopping centre has taken the island by storm, with its fantastic exterior, appealing interior décor and scrumptious offerings, amongst other novelties.

The Avenues-Bahrain is the first commercial and entertainment mall of its kind in the Kingdom – the only waterfront shopping and leisure destination with a unique seafront location extending 1.5km. It is strategically located in the heart of Manama, opposite the Bahrain Bay development along King Faisal Highway.

The development brings unique architecture with a new concept to the island, with a design inspired by The Avenues-Kuwait. Offering a spacious environment, it gives visitors an outdoor feeling while remaining indoors, protected from the heat by a ceiling that allows sunlight in. It also includes a large family entertainment area, including a special play hall, 10 cinema screens, public parks, walkways and ample parking spaces.

Visit www.the-avenues.com/bahrain or follow social media on Facebook: The.Avenues.Bahrain and Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter: @TheAvenuesBH

Kishor, Vijay, Kiran & Mitesh

Laugh Out Louder Sphere Advertising WLL conducted the sold-out event, Laugh Out Louder Night Season 3, with the stand-up gig masters Atul Khatri and Sonali Thakker at the Elite Resort and Spa. Tara, Atul, Sonali & Harjit

Nitesh, Jyoti, Veena, Anoop, Maherh, Khyati & Puralo

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Atul Khatri

Bobby & Renu

Ketan & Pooja

February 2018 101

marketplace AL RASHID GROUP

The region’s best-loved value fashion brand shows ladies how to raise the style stakes this spring.

For many of us, denim is the go-to option for casual wear. We all have our favourites, whether it’s the black pair of jeans you’ve had for years, or the trendy skinnies you bought last summer.

But with the upcoming change in season, and all the latest styles making their mark, it’s time to go shopping. These five cool looks from Max Fashion’s new Denim Daze spring collection will keep you looking on-trend.

Culottes A choice that is perfect for tall girls, culottes can be chic and very flattering if they are worn the right way. The trick is to see them as a midi skirt and style them with a statement jacket. Choose an embellished jacket from Max for a feminine touch. Pay attention to proportion though; an extra-large top won’t pair well with the culottes. Accessorise with bags in lighter tones, such as pastel pink, yellow or orange.

Embellished Denim Decorated denim is everywhere right now – colourful embroidery, sequins, pearls and even denim-on-denim designs. Let these pieces be the highlight of your outfit and reduce everything else to a minimum. For instance, as your adorned jacket already makes a statement, wearing it with a solid, more basic outfit will keep your look classy. Similarly, take a minimalist approach to accessories to let your patterned denim stand out.

102 February 2018

Dungarees No matter what your shape and size, there are dungarees that will let you rule this trend like a star. Once confined to the playground, these practical pieces are a big trend for springtime. Dungarees are versatile and easy to wear. All you need to do is add a simple white T-shirt with oversized sleeves for the weekend and a plain colourful shirt for a night out with the girls. Wear with casual shoes or sandals during the day, and slip into heels for an evening about town.

Spice Up Your Black Denim This wardrobe staple is the easiest to pair with anything. The key to looking like a million dollars in plain old black jeans is in how you style them. Keeping it simple and sophisticated, with a classic button-down shirt and a pair of statement heels, will never go out of fashion.

If you’re feeling experimental, add a wide black corset or belt for a slimmer look, but make sure you choose the right width. Thick belts are great for women with longer torsos because they help shorten their upper bodies, making them look more proportionate. A narrower belt may be the better choice for shorter girls.

The Denim Robe A hybrid between a kimono and a dressing gown, the denim robe is a must-have for the season. Max Fashion’s embroidered version ups the style factor and is an ideal choice for a relaxed afternoon. It’s best worn with fringed or ripped skinny jeans and black heels.

Visit Max stores or shop online at www.maxfashion.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

TONI&GUY

Top Tips for Haircare

Take a closer look at the benefits of this product and how it can help you keep your mane looking healthy.

When the sun is shining, it’s easy to ignore the damaging effects it has on your hair. And it’s not just the sun that is destructive. A quick dip in the pool or sea to cool off is amazing in the heat but will expose your hair to harmful chlorine or salt water, and you can soon see the difference.

The harm may not always be immediately obvious, but if you neglect your hair over months, it can be left severely damaged. And the final consequences result in having more of your hair cut off or investing in a course of repair treatments.

TONI&GUY shows you how to stop neglecting your hair with these simple steps.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure KeraStraight Protect keeps hair safe as it delivers natural protection from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays and includes advanced polymers to protect against the harmful effects of saltwater and chlorine.

In the Sunshine: Use Protect on wet or dry hair to easily guard your hair from UVA and UVB rays. For maximum defence, spray on wet hair and refresh every few hours or whenever it needs a boost (synchronise it with your sun cream to keep it simple).

This amazing lightweight spray leaves tresses feeling soft and shiny without any hint of being greasy or sticky. It’s designed for all hair types and will help guard against colour fading as well as protecting the hair’s health and condition.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

In the Pool and Sea: A simple dip in the pool or sea can be refreshing but is, unfortunately, pretty hazardous to your hair, as the chlorine and salt water both strip the health and hydration from your locks. Think of dry hair like a sponge. When you expose it to the sea or pool, it absorbs the salt and chlorinated water instantly, drying it out. To prevent this, wet your mane with fresh water and apply Protect before taking a dip.

This way your locks have a double protective layer of fresh water and Protect, ensuring hair stays healthy and nothing dampens your fun. Rinsing off any excess chemicals or salt after being in the water and shampooing at the end of the day will have your tresses staying healthy.

Call 17 001-700.

February 2018 103

marketplace business bites

New Takeover Inspired, a leading global operator of premium schools, has acquired 100 per cent ownership of the British School of Bahrain (BSB), which provides education to over 2,500 students on the island.

Inspired’s portfolio spans more than 30 schools in 10 countries, providing premium education to over 24,000 students, and it will enable BSB students and staff to benefit from the support of world-leading educational experts and access to state-of-the-art learning platforms.

Nadim M Nsouli, founder and chairman of Inspired, says: “We believe this represents an exciting development for both Inspired and BSB and look forward to working with the BSB leadership team to build upon the school’s impressive history of providing families in Bahrain with a world-class international education.”

Valuing Your Time Gulf Air, Bahrain’s national carrier, has been independently ranked by UK aviation analysts OAG as 2017’s third most punctual amongst Middle East and African airlines, with an average on-time performance (OTP) of 80.22 per cent.

The airline’s CEO Krešimir Kucko says: “Punctuality is a critical element for travellers and we are delighted to be recognised yet again as a leading global player in OTP. Gulf Air is committed to delivering on its promise to get passengers to their destinations in a timely manner. We are gearing up to welcome our incoming fleet of 39 new Boeing and Airbus aircraft, of which a total of five Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and two Airbus A320neos will have entered Gulf Air’s fleet by the end of 2018. With this development, passengers can soon enjoy not only Gulf Air’s punctuality and trademark Arabian hospitality, but also remarkable product and service enhancements alongside network growth.”

Hotel Acquisition President hospitality group, founded by CEO Abdul Sattar Koteshwara, has announced the takeover of Gulf Suites Hotel, Amwaj.

The property is an oasis of tranquility and relaxation that offers a range of luxury suites and apartments, with all the trappings of a five-star hotel, without the hefty price tag.

Located at the gateway of the magnificent Amwaj Islands, with spectacular views over the azure waters of the Arabian Sea, the two-tower complex is just a stroll away from the bustling Amwaj Lagoon, close to Floating City, shopping and entertainment areas and the island’s sandy beaches.

The 173 guest suites enjoy spectacular sea views and the property features three 104 February 2018

upbeat restaurants and a lounge, the latest fitness equipment, exclusive outdoor pools and a Jacuzzi, as well as separate steam rooms and sauna for men and women, children’s play area and barbecue space.

The property’s GM, Antony J Hurtis, aims to introduce new restaurant concepts, a sports lounge and smokehouse, poolside grill and barbeque, and all-day dining facilities before Ramadan. Having worked with the Taj Group of Hotels in India for 10 years and with 11 years’ experience in Bahrain’s hospitality sector as a general manager, Antony is looking to diversify both the accommodation and food and beverage offerings. www.bahrainthismonth.com

In Step with Change

CEO Appointed

The Fintech Consortium announced the appointment of Khalid Esam Saad as CEO of Bahrain FinTech Bay (BFB), to work closely with the board and lead the development of the company’s strategy overseeing the implementation of its long- and short-term objectives.

He will provide the senior leadership required to coordinate and communicate with the various stakeholders of BFB, including founding partners, government bodies, local and international fintech firms, amongst others. Khalid will also oversee all the partnerships, activities and management of the local team of Bahrain FinTech Bay.

Gulf Marcom, a Bahrain-based strategic holding company that manages a portfolio of industry pioneers, has made two key appointments: Simon Chapman as general manager and Degal Pinto as creative director.

Simon brings considerable marketing communications experience and an in-depth knowledge of the GCC market. He recently held the role of managing director at Saatchi & Saatchi in Saudi Arabia. He has previously held key managerial roles in Dubai, London and Kuwait.

Award-winning creative director Degal comes with over 18 years of agency experience in Bahrain, New Zealand and India. He brings proven knowledge of creative strategy, communication and management in the telecoms, consumer goods, hospitality and automotive markets.

Genetics Centre Renews American Accreditation Princess Al Jawhara Center for Genetics of the Arabian Gulf University (AGU) has obtained the accreditation of the College of American Pathologies for the second year running, following an expert review.

The Princess Al Jawhara Center is the first in Bahrain to receive this accreditation, which is one of the most important quality control and safety standards in laboratory diagnostic work in the world.

AGU president Dr Khalid bin Abdulrahman Al Ohaly congratulated the team and the centre director general Dr Moez Bakhit said the accreditation confirms that the Princess Al Jawhara Center has advanced standards at the level of procedures and results, including all its specialised laboratories in cellular genetics, molecular genetics and metabolic diseases.

Youth Programme Launched

Ambitious Project

AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation launched the second edition of the Youth Enrichment Programme under the theme of “Leadership Skills” at a meeting which brought together programme coordinators and participants’ parents to discuss plans, objectives, support and training opportunities.

This follows the successful graduation of the first batch of participants in May 2017 which was held in cooperation with Isa Cultural Center, Royal Academy of Police, Lulu Hypermarket, Gulf Air Academy, Al Amal Special Education Institute, Durrat Al Bahrain, Bahrain National Museum, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, as well as a number of civil society organisations.

Amlak Social Insurance Organization Development Company, the real estate arm and wholly owned subsidiary of the Social Insurance Organization (SIO), announced the appointment of Al Ghanah Group as the main contractor for the construction of the new development project ‘Burj Al Saya’.

This is a residential development which will be constructed in Busaiteen, northern Muharraq. The new development will feature two twin towers comprising of 128 apartments, a two-storey parking podium and 13 retail units on the ground floor.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2018 105

travel

Clockwise from left: Dining in Chardeni; the weekend Flea Market; Holy Trinity Cathedral; a puppet theatre in the Old Town; the Peace Bridge; the apse at Kashveti Church.

106 February 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Weekend Break TBILISI Just a three-hour direct flight away, the Georgian capital is both captivating and becoming chicer by the week. And it’s the perfect spot for a mini vacation.

Start your explorations at Rustaveli Avenue, considered to be the city’s main thoroughfare and home to the Tbilisi Opera House and Rustaveli Theatre (check what’s playing in advance if you’re a fan) as well as the Art House of Tbilisi, the country’s largest cinema, and more. The area is teeming with cafés, shops, restaurants and entertainment venues and is often host to outdoor exhibitions and performances. It’s also the place to spot some seriously impressive architecture and the area’s history of politics and protest is fascinating.

Like many cities these days, Tbilisi has the ubiquitous red bus tour – hop on and hop off at your leisure and with a running commentary in various languages, it’s a great way to learn about your destination and figure out the spots you want to return to.

However, just because there’s a bus, don’t miss out on a ride on the funicular. The short journey up Mount Mtatsminda is spectacular, as are the views from the top – and the Funicular Complex restaurant building has a couple of great places to eat or drink. Funicular historical tours are also available.

A trip to Tbilisi Old Town is a must. Here you’ll discover a labyrinth of narrow streets where wooden balconies look down from old brick houses and decorated doorways lead to hidden courtyards and gardens.

To the north of the old town lies Abanotubani area, famous for its Sulphur Baths. The name Tbilisi actually means warm place and the city is built on thermal sulphur springs, which have become a tourist attraction. The warm springs and sulphur have long been fabled for their effects on everything from skin problems to stiff joints, so, it would seem rude not to give it a go. We’re told Bathhouse No. 5 is the area’s oldest establishment and very beautiful, if somewhat lacking on the customer service front.

For your final evening head to Chardeni, a small area backed with bars, restaurants, nightclubs and cafés. The streets are pedestrianised and it’s great for people watching.

Gulf Air flies direct to Tbilisi three times a week. Budget accommodation can be found for as little as BD11 per night. www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2018 107

bystander OTHER EVENTS

Motorcity BSC launched the new Chery Tiggo 7 at a press conference at the Capital Club.

Capital Club Bahrain held a media lunch to launch its new menu at Signature Grill.

The renovated KCA VKL Auditorium was inaugurated by Oomen Chandy MLA, former chief minister of Kerala, India.

Two Credimax employees received the diligent employee and distinguished manager award at the Ministry of Labour’s annual honouring ceremony. Mohammed Redha Al Aali received an award for distinguished manager and Mohammed Mutaleb Taqi for diligent employee.

The Rotary Club of Manama members held their weekly meeting at the watch and perfume manufacturer ‘Designer Shaik’ premises in Al Hajar.

The fourth edition of Shop Bahrain was launched by the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, HE Zayed Al Zayani, in the presence of the CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, HE Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, at Bahrain Bay.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain bid a fond farewell to Bahraini Amateur Chef winner, Zahra Alherz, as she heads for a once-in-a-lifetime culinary training course at The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, honoured over 80 ladies and gentlemen for their years of service excellence with a special ceremony at the five-star luxury resort’s premises.

108 February 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander OTHER EVENTS Millenials from the New Millennium School consult with George Middleton on matters related todigital and printpublishing.

L-R: Charu, Sanjana, Arvind, Bhadra, Manas, George, Shreyas, Ekansh, Shruthi, Janakinandan, Omar, Nirmayee & Akshaya

The Bahrain Auto Fair 2018, first of its kind and held in conjunction with the ‘Shop Bahrain’ Festival, took place at the Bahrain Financial Harbour.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, was awarded the Contractor Recognition Award at a private ceremony held at Saudi Aramco.

The British School of Bahrain presented top internationally performing GCSE students with awards to mark their achievement.

Mashreq celebrated its 50th anniversary in Bahrain at the Gulf Hotel.

Rashida hosted a ladies luncheon at 400 Gradi restaurant.

Sheration Bahrain Hotel held its 36th annual associates party at its premises.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2018 109

tarotscope

AQUARIUS

Jan 22 – Feb 21

If someone had told you a few months ago that you would be in with a shot of achieving what you want with your career, you would probably have greeted their suggestions with derision. However, a lot can happen in a short space of time and in your case it definitely has. Whilst pressures may have hampered your progress where family and finances are concerned, work is a completely different matter, and you will be celebrating some high-profile achievements before the month is out. However, make sure you build on these achievements or your success will be short-lived and that could be a difficult thing to live with.

Card of the Month — The Nine of Pentacles For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

PISCES February 22 – March 20 The next few weeks are likely to be a bit of a blur for you – although this is a good thing for your sign because you thrive on constant activity and the buzz surrounding new projects and ideas. Over the course of the last few months you have been building your business interests up steadily and, around the start of February, things are set to expand in a major way. The main issue for you is going to be finding the time to fit everything in and you may well need to turn to someone else for help to ensure all necessary deadlines are met. Travel to somewhere exotic is also on the cards!

Card of the Month — The Two of Cups

ARIES March 21 – April 20 If you’ve been under pressure from financial and emotional burdens, then the good news is that things are going to get a lot easier in the next few weeks when many of your problems are blown away as a partner’s good fortune impacts on you in a positive manner. This might clear a little of the debris that has obstructed your long-term view just recently and you will be able to better organise your thoughts towards future plans with a little more confidence and conviction.

Travel, career development and even a change of address are all on the cards over the course of the next month.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Pentacles 110 February 2018

TAURUS April 21 – May 20 It must be said that, of all the signs in the Zodiac, your sign is traditionally one of the hardest working. However, even by your standards you’ve been doing quite a lot more than should be expected of anyone, so it will come as a very pleasant surprise when a loving partner decides to treat you to a trip away. Even though it might mean letting some deadlines slip, be sure and take them up on the offer because, even though you might not realise it, you’ve been burning the candle at both ends for so long that you are not that far off wearing yourself out!

Card of the Month — The Four of Pentacles

GEMINI May 21 – June 20 Last month it was relationships that were top of the ‘problems to solve’ list for many of you, but this month things appear to have calmed down in that area only for a new set of financial concerns to have arisen that will put you in a difficult situation with a family member. Your earnings have taken a hit just recently and the impact this is having on everyday life is starting to affect everyone. You may have to put some rather drastic emergency measures in place for the short term until you manage to dig yourself out of this hole. It won’t last forever but it could be a tough ride – for the next few weeks at least.

Card of the Month — Judgement

CANCER June 21 – July 20 For many of you the last few months have been something of a learning curve and you have learnt things about yourself that you never realised before. Whether you feel a better person for the experience is another matter, but at least you will be able to look back on the situation in years to come and say you are wiser for it. On the relationship front, you are feeling a little annoyed about a partner’s behaviour concerning a responsibility that they initially committed to, but have since tried to leave in your ‘lap’. You need to put your foot down and speak your mind.

Card of the Month — Strength

LEO July 21 – August 21 Many of you may have felt like you’ve been pinned beneath a weight of emotional pressure recently as the burden of trying to keep your head above water during difficult times has threatened to suffocate you. Consequently, you will be relieved to discover that things are going to be a little more manageable throughout February, although you will still have some tricky negotiations to navigate before you’re completely ‘out of the dark’. However, the basic message is that it’s getting better and, for those around you, that is also likely to be a good sign since you have been a little difficult to live with of late. It’s going to be a relief for everyone!

Card of the Month — The Moon

VIRGO August 22 – September 21 The last couple of weeks have seen many of you turn your lives around from the somewhat troubled states they were in.

Suddenly the world looks like a much more positive place to be in and you are going to see a fleet of opportunities open up before you. A recent improvement at work will have a knock-on effect from a financial perspective (which is a good thing since your finances have taken a hit since the turn of the year) and you may be tempted to splash out.

Just make sure your bank balance is in a healthy state before you do, or it could be a very short-lived celebration that is not going to benefit anyone!

Card of the Month — The Three of Cups www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index LIBRA September 22 – October 21 Sometimes you just can’t help yourself. Even though you know you shouldn’t say something, you let it slip out nevertheless and then wonder what all the commotion is about afterwards. This month is going to perfectly illustrate the point after a statement made in anger sees you isolating someone you care for, and you may not even realise what you have done until it is pointed out to you later. If you don’t move to rectify matters quickly you may find that it’s beyond a solution, so don’t hang about with the apologies.

Card of the Month — The King of Wands

Money could be tight this February and you are advised to hold back on the spending – which is always going to be difficult when one considers the many things you need to pay out for now. However, there is every indication that if you stretch yourself now you will pay heavily for it later, especially if you end up spending more that you can afford on your credit card. The best advice you can take is to keep your plastic in your wallet for the next few weeks. If you can swallow your pride and explain your situation to those closest to you, they will understand.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Wands

You’ll probably hear certain things this month that will leave you pondering over your future in the workplace, and if you have any doubts over your current position then now might be the time to do something about them. After all, the reality is that you are perhaps a little too comfortable in your present role and maybe the best thing you could have right now is a new challenge. As far as matters at home are concerned, you will be forced to deal with a great deal of friction over the coming weeks due to the pressures of an ongoing redevelopment or building work. The strain could push you and a partner to breaking point, so tread carefully and mind your tongue.

Card of the Month — The Page of Wands

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 Many of you could be in a reflective state of mind this month as you deliberate over recent events in your life that have led you to where you are today. Whilst you might not have too much to complain about (if you analyse your current situation you will see that this is true), there is one regret that has stayed with you for some time. It might be that you need to finally address this issue because in some way it has held you back and even perhaps influenced your decisions over the last few years. A little like an itch that has been difficult to scratch, 2018 should be the year that you get it sorted once and for all but it will feel uncomfortable along the way.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Swords

Harry Styles

FAMOUS AQUARIUS THIS MONTH Ellen DeGeneres

Financial Institutions

Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Arab Financial Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

University Medial Center King Abdullah

CrediMax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Medical City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Home & Furnishing

Others

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 33

Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

BSPCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Hotels & Serviced Residences Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Al Safir Hotel & Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 61 Movenpick Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (Gulf Interiors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (Gulf Property Show) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Joz Salon & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 The Avenues Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The National Initiative for Agricultural Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

The Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21

Ed Sheeren

Al Rashid Group (Max) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Medical & Dental Services

Entertainment Plus (Macbeth) . . . . . .31

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fashion & Footwear

The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Restaurants & Cafés

The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa 1

Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

The Westin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Coral Bay (Blu Water Grill) . . . . . . . . . 39

Zallaq Springs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Jewellery & Watches

Lumee Street Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Ramada Manama City Centre (Patio) 45

Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . 2

Talabat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Liali Jewellery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . 91

Sharif Group (West End Watch Co.) . 13

Wok Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

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.

February 2018 111

winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from A La Mode.

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.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10

Bahrain This Month received 113 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

What’s the name of the gaming expo coming to the BIC on February 2? ______________________________________________

Winner : Ma. Victoria Lagos Second Place : Alma Catubig Third Place : Zenaida Biadnes

How many obstacles in the Beast distance of the Spartan Race? ______________________________________________ Who is DJ Maxine Hardcastle’s father? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

Ad Seek:

2. Jan 11-Feb 10

2. Al Safir Hotel & Tower –

1. The Corniche

1. VOX Cinemas

3. Arad Fort

Where will the Tax Dodgers appear this month? ______________________________________________

Juffair/Apollo Club Lounge

4. Raj Kapoor

3. Al Abraaj

5. Late ‘90s

What was BMW Group GM David McGoldrick’s first car? ______________________________________________

4. JJ’s Irish Restaurant

6. 1999

7. July 1999

8. Guanajuato

9. Matera, Italy

When and where is the Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover two-day event being held? ______________________________________________

10. BMW Name:

What is the price of Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s limitededition ‘Romeo & Juliet’ Valentine’s cake? ______________________________________________

Address: Telephone:

What is the Valentine’s Day set menu at Patio priced at? ______________________________________________

Email:

Who is the sous chef at Ruka at Ramee Grand Hotel? ______________________________________________

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.

Name the dish at Lumee that’s a cross between fatoush and taboule.

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!

SAY IT WITH DINNER. Celebrate your love alongside a culinary masterpiece created by our Executive Chef this Valentine's Day with Patio at Ramada Manama City Centre.

For table bookings, call +973 17104050 or e-mail: patio@ramadamanama-citycentre.com

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more to celebrate 3.

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112 February 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com E | patio@ramadamanama-citycentre.com

T | +973 17104050