Bahrain This Month - February 2019

DISCOVER BAHRAIN - OUT AND ABOUT - MOTORING

Since 1997

February 2019 ~ Vol. 23 ~ Issue 2 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

VALENTINE’S SPECIAL

HAPPENINGS

Bahrain International Garden Show

40 DINNER DATES FOR LOVERS 20 GREAT GIFT IDEAS

45th Annual Fine Arts Exhibition

CLASSIC FILMS TO WATCH

Comedy nights

PEOPLE

Captain of industry

TRAVEL

Mutlaq bin Hamad Al-Morished

Hot destination – Armenia

Mohammad Saiyed the coffee man

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

SHOP ONLINE AT

THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton

Bahrain This Month February 2019

Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Dick Potter, Zilia Monteiro Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel, Hatem Monem

Hello, and welcome to the February edition of your favourite lifestyle magazine. There’s lots going on around the island this month from the Bahrain International Garden Show, the big gathering for all those with green thumbs, to the Annual Fine Art Exhibition, now in its 45th year and promising to be as vibrant and interesting as ever. There are also charity events for both the BSPCA and the Dogfather’s Animal Rescue Centre, a Beyonce tribute at JJ’s – to mark Valentine’s Day – and laughs aplenty with two comedy nights. You’ll find details of all these in the Happenings section and, of course, further events added throughout the month on our extensive online calendar which is updated regularly at www.bahrainthismonth.com February is, of course, the month of love and boy are our food and beverage purveyors going out of their way to make sure you enjoy it. In our big Valentine’s Dining feature you will find almost 40 great options for a very special date night, to suit every taste and budget. We’ve also come up with some great gift ideas in case you’re stuck on what to get the object of your affections.

Our interview section this month features heavy hitter Mutlaq bin Hamad Al-Morished, one of Saudi Arabia’s most influential businessmen, who is also on the board of Alba and has much to say about business practice and restructuring. We also hear from David Leman about a scheme to help young Bahraini hoteliers. And Mohammed Saiyed talks about the business of coffee.

In motoring, Dick Potter ruminates on the difference between A Driver and A Polisher. I can only hope the lucky devil decided to be the former when he took the two new Mercedes-Benz C Classes for a spin.

Our second feature this month takes a look at what’s going on in the island’s fintech industry and financial expert Pria Masson Tanwar explains just how the economics of it work.

The ever-expanding lifestyle section includes an interview with artist Khaled – Kal – Matahen, who is exhibiting at InTouch Clinic this month.

And we’ve also rounded up some of the Kingdom’s less well-known galleries for you to visit.

As always, there’s plenty of news from the fields of motoring and business. The Table Hopping section has more dining info than ever and we’ve also rounded up Chinese New Year events.

The February edition really is ‘Your Guide to a Great Way of Life’.

Photography Editor Muna Yousef Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Kadhu Kadambari Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) Media Sales RANDA GHAZI HOWAIS randa@redhousemarketing.com DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Content Editors Adnan Sipra Video Producer Dario Godic Art & Animation Director Hatem Monem 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 2005-2019 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:

Valentine’s Special DISCOVER BAHRAIN - OUT AND ABOUT - MOTORING

Since 1997

February 2019 ~ Vol. 23 ~ Issue 2 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

VALENTINE’S SPECIAL

HAPPENINGS

Bahrain International Garden Show

40 DINNER DATES FOR LOVERS 20 GREAT GIFT IDEAS

45th Annual Fine Arts Exhibition

CLASSIC FILMS TO WATCH

Comedy nights

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

PEOPLE

Captain of industry

TRAVEL

Mutlaq bin Hamad Al-Morished the coffee man

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Culture

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

Hot destination – Armenia

Mohammad Saiyed

Arts

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

February 2019 5

Issue 258

Contents February 2019 HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of February 2019: 19

An Evening of Laughter and Camaraderie

Karunesh Talwar and Mana Desai prepare to entertain with hilarious stand-up comedy.

28

20

Charity Quiz Night

The BSPCA tests contestants’ knowledge as they raise funds for the animal welfare centre.

22

Bahrain International Design Week

A gathering where artists, designers and creators get the chance to showcase their works.

24

The Return – Spirit of Bahrain

A concert in celebration of National Action Charter Day. 26

19

24

Green Fingered Careers

Bahrain International Garden Show concentrating on careers within the agricultural sector.

28

Bon Appétite

The return of the annual Bahrain Food Festival, this time at The Avenues.

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

INTERVIEWS

31

35

Restructuring and Disruptive Change

31-32

Mutlaq bin Hamad Al-Morished talks business practice and Saudi progression.

34-35 The

Future of Hospitality

David Leman, Marriott’s chief HR officer for the Middle East and Africa, on training and development for local staff.

39

41 Bystander This month’s Bystander pages include a great selection of Christmas and New Year parties; musical evenings; new business, restaurant and showroom openings; exhibitions and a whole range of social events. Our snappers have been busy boys. Did your pic make the cut?

www.bahrainthismonth.com

36 Keep

On Trucking

Mohammad Saiyed on the founding of his coffee truck business.

COMMERCE 38-39

Business Bites

FEATURE 41-43

Fintech

A look at the Bahrain market in the face of a financial technology explosion.

February 2019 7

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Issue 258

Contents February 2019 Motoring 45

My Life in Cars

Dick Potter shares his passion for motors.

Simpleh Loveleh…

46

46

Dick Potter puts two models of the new Mercedes-Benz C series through their paces.

47-48 Motoring

Bites

BTM brings you the latest news from the motoring world.

FEATURE Valentine’s Special

53-59

Almost 40 date-night dining options and gifts for guys and girls.

Dining 60

Food Review Cico’s

Liz O’Reilly checks out new menu items at

53

60

the island favourite.

62-68

Table Hopping

Dining deals and gossip from around the Kingdom.

70

Chinese New Year

Where to celebrate the auspicious occasion.

Technology

73 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town

Games: The hot games of the month Websites: The coolest sites on the web 76 Apps: Essential apps to try

74 Computer 75

Entertainment

Music: Top new tunes on TV: Shows to download 79 Hollywood faves: Valentine’s blockbusters 77

78 New

70

83

Lifestyle

New: Must-have products 81 Discover Bahrain: Shaikh Ebrahim Centre 82 Out and About: Go Go Galleries 83 Artist Interview: Khaled Matahen oh his 80 What’s

latest exhibition

Travel: Armenia AD Index and QR codes 84-85

86

73

77 Connect with Bahrain This Month:

79 www.bahrainthismonth.com

80

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

February 2019 9

bystander

Ritz-Carlton’s New Year

New Year’s Eve was celebrated at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

To view more images, scan the QR code

To view more images, scan the QR code

Ritz-Carlton’s Christmas

A Christmas brunch was held at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

10 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Manama Bab - Al Bahrain Showroom - 17210982

Manama Al Hadrami Road Showroom - 17230402 Gudaibiya Showroom

- 66746276

kewalramandsons Kewalram And Sons

www.kewalrams.com

bystander

Graduation Ceremony

Under the patronage of the Central Bank of Bahrain, the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance and the Universty of Strathclyde held a graduation ceremony for its MBA graduates at Gulf Hotel Bahrain

Armani Exchange

Armani Exchange held a Winter Styling Competition at its premises in City Centre Bahrain

To view more images, scan the QR code

Jazz Evening

InterContinental Regency Bahrain held a jazz evening at Noor lounge

To view more images, scan the QR code

Middletons’ New Year

George and Annie Middleton brought in the New Year with their children 12 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

d n tre rs e t t se TONI & GUY BAHRAIN FOR LADIES & GENTS FOR INFO CALL : 1700 1700

|

TONI&GUYBAHRAIN

SEEF MALL NEW EXTENSION

OPENING TIME : 9 AM - 10 PM

| BAHRAIN

WWW.TONIANDGUYBH.COM

bystander

Ward Al Sham Sweets

A grand opening was held for the new shop Ward Al Sham Sweets at Saar Mall

GSEA (Manama) BRINK

The Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (Manama) BRINK ceremony was held at the Batelco Building

14 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

FRENCH MANUFACTURER FRENCH MANUFACTURER

FRENCH MANUFACTURER

Seef District, facing Ritz Carlton Seef District, facing Ritz Carlton - MANAMA MANAMA Tel. 17564444 - www.gautier-furniture.com Tel. 17564444 - www.gautier-furniture.com 115 STORES WORLDWIDE

120 STORES WORLDWIDE

PARIS

PARIS

DUBAI

DUBAI

LONDON

LONDON

TORONTO

TORONTO

SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE

MOSCOW

CASABLANCA

MOSCOW

CASABLANCA

bystander

RedOne

A press conference was held at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain by RedOne, the multi Grammy awardwinning artist, producer and singer, to announce, as a premiere, his next album and reveal some insights of his next hit

GastroPub Birthday

LNT Gastropub celebrated its 1st birthday accompanied by live music from Ezra J

16 February 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Celebrating 40 Years

To view more images, scan the QR code

The Chinese Embassy held a celebratory reception for 40 Years of China’s Reform and Opening-Up at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay with Chinese Ambassador, HE Anwaer delivering a keynote speech

Wembley Friday

Party Brunch Live cooking stations

BD2 net 1 t

pasta / sea food / grills and more

Live music - karaoke - sing with the band

The best party atmosphere in Bahain Call us on 3364 0009

18 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

FEBRUARY 2019-HAPPENINGS GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT ALLURING SUNDAYS

ONGOING

Madness Lounge

Experience the newness and thrill of a ladies’ night launched at Madness lounge this month. Ladies party until the wee hours with unlimited beverages on the house!

The venue’s state-of-the-art and chic design, in addition to its sumptuous international cuisine, guarantees a fun mid-week party night to take those work stresses away!

Call 36 130-292 / 36 289-386.

ALL FOR LAUGHS FEBRUARY 1

GIGGLES: AN EVENING OF LAUGHTER & CAMARADERIE

GO CAMPING Elite Resort & Spa

Get ready for some rib-tickling laughter as the talented Karunesh Talwar and Manan Desai entertain you at the Elite Resort & Spa. Mumbai-based Karunesh made his way onto the local comedy scene by winning open-mic stand-up competitions, including the Comedy Store’s RAW and he has since gone on to become a popular touring entertainer. Manan, meanwhile, is both a comedian and actor, with several film credits to his name. Tickets are BD8 for the general entry and BD15 for VIP. Call 33 259-981.

FEBRUARY 1

OVERNIGHT CAMPING

Aldar Islands

The island life only gets better as Aldar islands hosts a fun overnight camping trip for those of you looking to get away! Take a dip in the cool waters by day and warm yourselves next to a bonfire by night. A live DJ will keep the party vibes going and a variety of entertainment for kids and adults will keep your spirits active. You can also bring your own food and beverage.

Tickets are BD8 for adults and kids go free. Prices inclusive of island entry and boat transportation. Tickets and accommodation can be booked in advance.

Call 17 704-600.

ALEXKID IN BAHRAIN FEBRUARY 1

ENTERTAINMENT

55 Old St.

Propoganda BH hosts former Parisian turned Berliner DJ / producer, multi-instrumentalist and sound engineer, Alexkid, for a night of influential electronic music.

With over 20 years in the industry, the artist is credited as an early protagonist of 90s’ Parisian underground culture. Stripped back, dubby and sometimes borderline obscure, Alex constructs atmospheric narratives with his tunes.

His releases and remixes on labels including Rekids, Desolat, Cadenza, CabinFever, Freerange, and Supplement facts have solidified Alexkid’s reputation in every corner of the world.

The event starts at 9pm and runs all the way up to 2am, and ladies can make the most of a free entry until 11pm.

Call 17 441-900. www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 19

happenings

CHARITY SALE

PROFESSIONAL MEET UP

FEBRUARY CHARITY CAR Bahrain Rugby 2 BOOT SALE Football Club

Networking FEBRUARY RUGBY CLUB Event | Bahrain 5 PROFESSIONALS Rugby Football Club

When? Ongoing Event? Alluring Sundays Venue? Madness Lounge Call 36 130-292 / 36 289-386.

When? February 1 Event? DJ Jackson Club Show Venue? Club Madness

Let loose and unwind for a crazy party night with DJ Jackson at the Ramee International Hotel’s club, Madness. The evening runs from 8pm to 2am.

Call 39 577-771 / 35 133-592.

When? February 1 Event? Overnight Camping Venue? Aldar islands Call 17 704-600.

When? February 1 Event? Water Wars Dragon Boat Tug of War Venue? Bahrain Bay

The first ever water wars dragon boat tug of war takes place at Bahrain Bay this month, organised by the Bahrain Rowing and Canoe Centre.

Call 35 586-373.

When? February 1 Event? Alexkid Venue? 55 Old St. Call 17 441-900.

When? February 1 Event? Giggles: An Evening of Laughter & Camaraderie Venue? Elite Resort & Spa Call 33 259-981.

When? February 1 Event? When You Wish Upon A Star Venue? Bahrain Cultural Hall

A Disney-themed dance show featuring talented kids and adults resident on the island.

Call 17 693-232 / 33 719-180.

When? February 1-2 Event? Charity Bazaar Venue? Nakheel Center, Saar

Alareen Lions club in collaboration with Nakheel Centre hosts the second season of their bazaar. The event runs from 11am to 11pm.

All proceeds are donated to people in need.

Call 33 131-500 / 39 915-299.

20 February 2019

Time to clean out those closets and de-clutter your household goods, for the Dogfather’s Car boot sale is here!

Vendors set up at 8am, at just BD5 per car and entrance for visitors is 500 fils. Proceeds go towards the rescue and rehabilitation of animals at the shelter.

Call 39 801-393.

CHARITY QUIZ FEBRUARY 6

BSPCA QUIZ NIGHT

Amplify your professional reach at this networking event organised by Bahrain Rugby Football Club. The guest speaker for the evening will be Mary-Justine, CEO of Women’s Crisis Care International, who will introduce the services and support they are providing for women across the island.

The event runs from 7pm to 8.30pm and is BD5 for BRFC members and BD7 for non-members, inclusive of a beverage and canapés.

Call 17 695-809.

Celluloid

Take part in the BSPCA Quiz Night at Celluloid in Amwaj Lagoon, in support of animals at the shelter. The evening offers special prices for happy hour and a snack menu.

Entrance is BD5 per person with teams of eight maximum.

All proceeds will go towards the running of the Animal Welfare Centre and funding of the free CNR scheme for cats and dogs. If you’re lucky, you’ll also walk away with a fun raffle prize.

Call 37 733-415 / 66 608-901.

PHOTOGRAPHIC ADVENTURES FEBRUARY 6

EXHIBITION

InTouch Gallery

Drama, colours and contrasts compose the beautiful clicks by Khaled Matahen, who showcases his photographic works at his latest exhibition at InTouch Gallery. A lover of polar opposites of high contrast, severe light and shade and the symmetry and geometry of architecture, Khalid has been dabbling with art since a young age. He is a self-taught photographer with over 40 years experience.

At middle school, he experimented with painting and drawing before he moved on to photography.

Khalid studied engineering in the USA and served the US Air Force for 13 years, during which he developed his artistic output and expression. His first exhibition was in 1986, in an Air Force base in Illinois, after which he constantly won Air Force-wide photography contests.

Many of Khaled’s expressive abstracted paintings were born out of the Gulf War. He came to Bahrain in 2010 with the military and is now an avid travel photographer, this exhibition showcases scenery from Bahrain, Italy, Spain, and America. The exhibition runs until the end of February.

Call 17 690-100. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Electrotherapy with different modalities

Cervical and lumbar traction

Orthopedic and Surgical Rehabilitation

Laser therapy Shockwave therapy

Manual Therapy

Therapeutic exercises

(Including soft tissue manipulative techniques, joint mobilization)

Sports Injuries treatment with taping techniques

Women’s Health Physiotherapy

(Ante and Post Natal Back Care & Pelvic Pain)

* Home visit available within 3 km radius

FOR APPOINTMENTS

1736 2233

6699 7778

MIDDLE EAST HOSPITAL, SEGAYA MIDDLE EAST MEDICAL CENTER, HIDD MIDDLE EAST MEDICAL CENTER, SALMABAD MIDDLE EAST MEDICAL CENTER, BIW

For Online Bookings: www.mehospital.com | Follow us

mehospitalbh

mehgroup

1736 2233 1746 4848 17 21 6056 7746 4848

A venture of VKL Holdings & al Namal Group

happenings When? Until February 2 Event? Shop Bahrain Venue? Various

Welcome to a world of shopping, raffle draws and family entertainment with the return of the 5th edition of the Bahrain Shopping Festival ‘Shop Bahrain’.

PROPERTY EXPO BAHRAIN REAL City Centre FEBRUARY ESTATE 7-9 INVESTMENT EXPO Bahrain

DESIGNER DISPLAYS

BAHRAIN FEBRUARY INTERNATIONAL The Avenues 7-9 DESIGN WEEK

Visit shopbahrain.com

When? February 1-3 Event? Palm Festival Venue? Bahrain Bay

Music fans must surely not miss out on this music festival featuring some of the biggest artists in the region.

Visit palmfestival.com.

When? February 2 Event? Dogfather’s Car boot Sale Venue? Rugby Club Call 39 801-393.

When? February 2 Event? The Fox Hat band Venue? Crossroads Bahrain

After a short break, grunge cover band, The Fox Hat, is back with its live performances at Crossroads.

Don’t miss out on this injection of adrenalin and rock and roll!

Call 33 895-222.

When? February 2 Event? La Plage Beach Festival Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq

Thalassa Sea & Spa Free fun for all the family at this beach festival packed with live entertainment, cooking stations and free massages.

Call 17636-363.

When? February 2 Event? Market Day Venue? Al Azizia Birds Kingdom

The Real Estate sector in Bahrain is in the spotlight once again with the second edition of the Bahrain Real Estate Investment Expo 2019.

The event exhibits a range of real estate projects on the island and is a vital platform connecting developers, entrepreneurs, property experts and investors from all over the Gulf region.

This year’s innovative concept focuses on the housing and property investment opportunities offered in the Bahraini local market.

Visitors will easily have access to a wide variety of quality projects at the exhibition, which emphasises the offerings of readily available and licensed properties.

Call 17 744-898.

GET IN ON THE ACTION FEBRUARY 9

Call 16 030-597.

When? February 3 Event? Sri Lankan National Day Venue? Aldar Islands

Call 17 704-600.

When? February 5 Event? Chinese New Year Venue? Aldar Island

Celebrate Chinese New Year at the island. Tickets are BD3 for adults and BD1 for kids inclusive of entrance and boat taxi. Bring your own food and drink and spend a day by the waters from 9am to 5pm.

Call 17 704-600.

22 February 2019

ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS FEBRUARY 11-12

EMENACOMM

Art Rotana

Bahrain OPEN TRACK International CARS AND BIKES Circuit

Family time will be well spent at this market interacting with birds and striking a bargain with vendors. Market timings are between 12pm to 5pm. Vendors can book a table for just BD10.

Celebrate Sri Lankan National Day at the island. Tickets are BD3 for adults and BD1 for kids inclusive of entrance and boat taxi. Bring your own food and drink and spend a day by the waters from 9am to 5pm.

If you are a designer looking to demonstrate your set of skills to the international market, then this is an exhibition you should not miss.

Bahrain International Design Week kicks off on February 7, gathering artists, creators and designers together in a onestop-shop. Showcasing the latest in styles and designs across various industries including architecture, interiors, jewellery, accessories, make-up, painters and artisans, the event aims to provide opportunities for designers of all skills from across the MENA region.

There will also be a series of events and workshops at various times throughout the week, so visit the website to keep updated with the schedule.

Visit www.bidw.co

If you have ever dreamed of being a champion-race driver, then this could be the event for you. The Open Track experience offers a thrilling on-track spin out for all drivers including motorcycle enthusiasts.

If you have ever wondered what your bike or car is truly capable of, here is your chance to push it to the limit and have a great time in the process. Test your bike over 15 turns along in unique, desert setting that can’t be rivalled anywhere else.

Available between noon and 7pm.

Call 17 450-000.

Stay up to date with industry best practices to achieve organisational success through communications, at this conference held by the International Association of Business communicators in Bahrain for the first time. The two-day event will provide organisations with the insights, know-how and tools to achieve strategic transformation.

Covering topics such as leadership and strategy, corporate social responsibility, the impact of technology, crisis response and the latest thinking in external and internal communications, EMENAComm will showcase best practices and innovations that are changing how corporations, agencies and NGOs are achieving success through communications.

If you’re interested in the opportunity to learn more about your role as a business communicator, cultivate connections that will support your growth, and strengthen your skills and knowledge as a practitioner and leader, then this event is for you.

The programmes start at 8.30am and run all the way up to 5pm. | Visit emenacomm.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Opening Ceremony

Under the patronage of HE Sameer Abdulla Ahmed Nass, BCCI chairman, Moiz Trading held a grand opening ceremony for its new showroom in the Sitra Industrial Area

To view more images, scan the QR code

Moiz Trading Co. B.S.C. Š deals in hardware, plumbing, sanitary ware, pumps, heating equipments & supplies & solar systems. We have 45+ years of experience into Plumbing & Sanitary engineering experience. Our prestigious projects include Bahrain International Airport Modernization Project, Diyar, IKEA, Avenues, King Hamad Hospital, World Trade Centre, Bahrain Financial Harbor, Four Seasons, etc.Our brands include Bahrain Pipes, Raktherm, Funke, Polypipe, Polyplumb, Effast, Geberit, Conex, CRI Pumps, Sole, Hunter, etc. Our products are pre-qualified by MED Dept., Ministry of Housing & Ministry of Works.

New Showroom | Road 0401, Al Qaryah 0604, Capital Governorate, Kingdom of Bahrain Ma’meer Warehouse | P.O. Box: 11295, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 17703964, Fax: 17703965, info@moiztrading.com Sitra Showroom | Al Ajaji Complex, Sitra Highway, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 17735045, Fax: 17732690 www.moiztrading.com

VYING FOR EXCELLENCE www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 23

happenings When? February 5 Event? Rugby Club Professionals – Networking Event Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club Call 17 695-809.

BRANDS BOOST FEBRUARY 11-13

EXPO

CELEBRATING SPORTS

Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

When? February 6 Event? BSPCA Quiz Night Venue? Celluloid, Amwaj Lagoon Call 37 733-415 / 66 608-901.

When? February 6 Event? Exhibition by Khaled Matahen Venue? InTouch Gallery Call 17 690-100.

When? February 7 Event? Kids Educational Workshop – Grow Learning Space Venue? Bab Al Bahrain

A workshop combining fun and education through engaging hands-on activities, guaranteed to trigger curiosity. This workshop is in collaboration with “Grow Learning Space”.

Registration is required.

Visit culture.gov.bh

When? February 7 Event? Ebrahim K Kanoo Drag & Drift Nights Venue? Bahrain International Circuit

Show-off your skills at this exciting motorsport, which is open to the public from 6pm to 11pm. Drivers take part in their own cars or motorbikes.

Call 17 450-000.

When? February 7-9 Event? Bahrain Real Estate Investment Expo Venue? City Centre Bahrain Call 17 744-898.

When? February 7-9 Event? Bahrain International Design Week Venue? The Avenues Visit www.bidw.co

Looking for branding solutions and investment opportunities? Visit the one-stop-shop International Brands and Franchise Expo, organised by Quick Media Solutions for brand-boosting, franchising, licensing and potential investment opportunities.

Network with some of the biggest brand marketers in the Middle East across B2B and B2G opportunities and gain focus on lead generation, investments, franchising, latest technologies, innovation, workshops and start-ups.

The event runs from 10am to 7pm and is free for industry professionals.

Call 17 533-320 / 35 570-047.

Shopping fair featuring art, fashion, jewellery, handmade rugs, accessories and more.

Raising cash to support the BSPCA’s shelter.

Call 66 608-901.

24 February 2019

BAHRAIN SPORTS DAY

Bahrain National Stadium

Calling all sports enthusiasts to participate in the third edition of the Bahrain Sports Day. Celebrated across the GCC countries in the second week of February, the event is held in Bahrain under the patronage of HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, representative of His Majesty the King for charity and youth affairs, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports.

The event aims to promote public health by involving all sectors of Bahrain’s sports society in order to instill the culture of sport as a healthy lifestyle.

Participants have to register online prior to the event.

Visit sportsday.bh

THE RETURN- SPIRIT OF BAHRAIN FEBRUARY 14

MUSIC CONCERT

Bahrain National Theatre

In celebration of National Action Charter Day, a musical concert will take place at the Bahrain National Theatre, proudly composed for international orchestra standards by Muharraq’s very own maestro Waheed Al Khan.

He will perform his album The Return, accompanied by the Cairo Symphony Orchestra. Waheed’s album reflects on the stories and scenes that were built around the spirit of Bahrain, and aims to preserve its beauty, love and harmony.

It cherishes the memories of those who lived these scenes and exposes them to a new audience.

Tickets are available at Virgin Megastore at City Centre Bahrain. The show starts at 8pm and is for ages eight years and above.

Visit tickets.virginmegastore.me/bh.

YOGA RETREAT FEBRUARY 14-22

KARMA YOGASELFLESS SERVICE A RETREAT TO INDIA

CRAZY IN LOVE India

When? February 9 Event? Open track cars and bikes Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Call 17 450-000.

When? February 9 Event? The Great BSPCA Love Affair Venue? Dilmun Club

FEBRUARY 12

Immerse yourself in selfless service and yoga, at this retreat organised by Namaste Bahrain. Taking you all the way down to the centre in Goa, the journey includes practising yoga, meditation and breathing and involves some voluntary work with kids and animals. The trip package includes the workshop itself, accommodation for a week, meals and transport.

Call 17 591-565.

FEBRUARY 15

BEYONCE TRIBUTE

JJ’s Irish Restaurant

Party with Beyonce tribute artist, Lauren, who will perform at JJs for the very first time. She is a professional singer, dancer and multi-tribute act performer who has featured on the TV show X Factor and made it all the way to the judges’ houses.

Lauren’s tribute to Beyonce is one of her busiest and most sought-after shows being praised for her likeness in vocals. The after brunch party kicks off with DJ Aaron Wolf and the Wildcard Band. Tickets available at the door for gents at BD5 from 6pm. Ladies enter free or pay BD3 from 9pm.

Call 33 843-005. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Embassy of India organised a cultural programme and reception on the occasion of the visit of a Indo-Bahrain Youth Exchange The youth delegation from India at its premises in Seef

Ballet Pre-Show The Bahrain Ballet Centre held a mini preshow dance display at Play, Seef Mall

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 25

happenings When? February 11 Event? Bahrain Writer’s Circle Monthly meeting Venue? Mannai Sea Plaza

Benefit from monthly meet-ups for budding writers.

Call 39 574-795.

When? February 11-12 Event? EMENAComm Venue? ART Rotana Visit emenacomm.com When? February 11-13 Event? International Brands and Franchise Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre Call 17 533-320 / 35 570-047.

When? February 12 Event? Bahrain Sports Day Venue? Bahrain National Stadium Visit sportsday.bh When? February 13 Event? Bahrain Writers Poetry Circle meeting Venue? ARTDIVANO Gallery

Poetry enthusiasts monthly meet up, open to the public.

Call 39 574-795.

When? February 14 Event? Traditional Live Performance Venue? Bab Al Bahrain

In celebration of National Charter Day, a reminiscent evening filled with local traditional and folklore tunes that will take the audience down memory lane.

Visit culture.gov.bh.

When? February 14 Event? The Return – Spirit of Bahrain Venue? Bahrain National Theatre

In celebration of National Action Charter Day, a musical concert will take place at the Bahrain National Theatre, proudly composed for international orchestra standards

by Muharraq’s very own Maestro Waheed Al Khan.

He will perform his album The Return, accompanied by the Cairo Symphony Orchestra. Waheed’s album reflects on the stories and scenes that were built around the spirit of Bahrain, and aims to preserve its beauty, love and harmony, while cherishing the memories of those who lived it, and sceneries to those who didn’t.

Tickets are available at Virgin Megastore at City Centre. The show starts at 8pm and is for ages 8 years and above.

Visit tickets.virginmegastore. me/bh.

26 February 2019

CULTURAL EXTRAVAGANZA A MUSICAL FEBRUARY SOJOURN WITH 15 PRAJOTH D’SA

Indian Club, Bahrain

The Konkan community hosts a musical extravaganza with Prajoth D’Sa, a new generation singer, songwriter, composer and musician. Although an engineer by profession, Prajoth’s career has also shown him to be a gifted musician with a distinct style.

He will be joined by Merwyn Shirva, a well-known comedian from the coastal belt of Karnataka, who will entertain audiences with his rib-tickling comedy. Merwyn gained fame through his non-stop comedy, mostly playing feminine roles. He currently hosts Coffee With Merwyn, a show for Mukta Channel.

The event is from 6pm until 10pm and is by invitation only. .

Call 39 799-329 / 35 424-987.

CARNIVAL TIME UNTIL FEBRUARY 16

SEEF CARNIVAL

Seef Mall Muharraq

Carnival spirit is upon us this month with the Seef Carnival, which runs until February 16.

The fun-packed event organised by Seef Mall Muharraq offers various exciting activities suitable for the entire family to enjoy during the winter season including an ice rink as its central attraction complemented by several entertainment zones such as wall climbing and zip lining, allowing customers to swoop from the top to the bottom of the Seef Carnival area.

LEGO fans will also be able to unleash their imagination and build giant Lego models with their friends and family while enjoying the different activities in a fun-filled atmosphere.

Call 77 911-114.

ART ON SHOW FEBRUARY 20-APRIL 16

THE 45TH BAHRAIN ANNUAL FINE ARTS EXHIBITION

Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Since its inception in 1972, the fine arts exhibition acts as an innovative forum for debate in which the different artistic monologues have an exclusive opportunity to communicate, converse and compete. From abstract to surrealism, from modernist representations to more traditional cultural expressions, this exhibition represents an opportunity to highlight different schools of thought, artists’ perceptions and ideological backgrounds.

Held annually under the patronage of HRH the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the event has hosted more than 2,600 artists over the years, showing more than 5,500 works of art. visit culture.gov.bh

GREEN FINGERED CAREERS FEBRUARY 21-24

BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL GARDEN SHOW 2019 (BIGS)

Agriculture: A Promising Career Choice, is the theme for this year’s show which is held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and with the continued support of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of the King and President of the Consultative Council for the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD) which organises the show.

BIGS is dedicated to developing the future of agriculture in the Kingdom, presenting an integrated platform for exchanging experiences, reviewing the latest developments, technologies and innovations as well as creating opportunities for new trade partnerships between local and international institutions.

HE Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, secretary general of NIAD, said: “The upcoming show will focus on agriculture as an aspirational career choice to meet a growing demand for

Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

skilled experts. It is attractive because of the variety of options it offers and the skill-set it provides especially in the fields of agricultural technology and sustainable practice. Extensions of this specialisation include: food production, power and technical system management, environmental systems, agribusiness ventures and entrepreneurship.”

Hall 1 – The Marketplace – will be dedicated to the marketing of various products such as flowers, plants, agricultural tools, pots, garden furniture, machinery, lighting equipment etc.

Hall 2 will be dedicated to raising awareness and education. It will include both official and educational institutions and civil society organisations showcasing their services, programmes and the latest agricultural innovations.

Call 17 417-008, visit www.bigs.com.bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

‫ﻣﺴﺎﺑﻘﺎت ‪ -‬ﺟﻮاﺋﺰ ﻗﻴﻤﺔ‬ ‫ﺗﺴﻮق ﻣﻨﺘﺠﺎت ﻛﻮﻳﺘﻴﺔ‬ ‫‪28 Feb‬‬

‫‪05:00pm‬‬

‫‪2019‬‬ ‫ﻣﺠﻤﻊ ﺳﺎر ‪S aar Mall‬‬

‫ﻣـﺴـــــﺎء ‬

happenings

When? February 14-22 Event? Karma Yoga-Selfless Service A Retreat to India Venue? Goa, India Call 17 591-565.

BON APPÉTITE FEBRUARY BAHRAIN FOOD 21 FESTIVAL

COMEDY NIGHT The Avenues

FEBRUARY 22

COMEDY SHOW

Dilmun Club

When? February 15 Event? Crazy in Love – Beyonce Tribute Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant Call 33 843-005.

When? February 15 Event? A Musical sojourn with Prajoth D’Sa Venue? Indian Club, Bahrain Call 39 799-329 / 35 424-987.

When? February 15-23 Event? GroovyKids Yoga Teacher Training Venue? Namaste Bahrain

A 30-hour training for teachers incorporating simple techniques for kids yoga.

No previous experience needed.

The workshop runs from 9am to 5pm.

Call 17 591-565.

When? Until February 16 Event? Seef Carnival Venue? Seef Mall Muharraq Call 77 911-114.

When? February 18 Event? Bahrain Fort Site Museum anniversary celebration Venue? Bahrain Fort Site Museum

The Bahrain Fort celebrates its 11th anniversary. The event is free admission.

Visit culture.gov.bh.

When? February 18 Event? Bahrain Writers Creative Workshop Venue? The Juffair Grand Hotel Coffee Shop A workshop for writers looking to improve their creative writing skills.

Call 39 574-795.

When? February 20-April 20 Event? The 45th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition Venue? The Ritz-Carlton Visit culture.gov.bh.

When? February 21 Event? 3rd Middle East and Africa FinTech Forum Venue? The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain

Hosted by Bank ABC, the event is held under the patronage of Rasheed Almaraj, CBB governor from 7.30pm to 11pm.

Call 17 543-000.

When? February 21 Event? Artistic workshop – Silk Screen Printing Venue? Bab Al Bahrain

Learn about silk-screen printing and its techniques. Apply your new findings into individual art pieces.

Visit culture.gov.bh

28 February 2019

Food lovers are in for a big treat, as the Bahrain Food Festival gets underway this month at The Avenues offering visitors a variety of mouthwatering cuisines and delicacies to choose from.

Prepare to be spoilt for choice as the smells of various international and local cuisines fill the air. There’s no better way to finish off your meal, than to enjoy some outdoor entertainment with the family including a live cooking session, magic shows and other fun sessions.

The festival will run daily from 5pm to 10pm.

Visit btea.bh.

The Bahrain Comedy Club, The Dilmun Club’s new monthly comedy night hosts Eddy Brimson for a night of entertainment.

Eddy is one of the UK circuit’s most in-demand headline acts working regularly with all the leading promoters.

He has performed in Norway and China and everywhere in between and was one of the first ever comics to perform in Myanmar. Tickets are BD10 and include a curry buffet.

Doors open at 8pm.

Call 17 690-296.

THE ART OF HEALING FEBRUARY 22-26

JIKIDEN REIKI

Seef District

Reiki enthusiasts can now learn techniques from its original instruction in Japan by Usui Sensei, at this workshop held by Frank Arjava Petter. He is the best-selling author and vice representative of the Jikiden Reiki Institute, Kyoto Japan.

The first part of the workshop, which runs from February 22-24, will teach you Shoden (Level 1). You will receive three Reiju (attunements) and learn how to use it to treat any physical condition, disease or injury.

The second workshop on February 25-26 will teach Okuden (Level 2). On completion of the class you will receive English certification as well as a Japanese certificate issued by the institute in Kyoto.

A non-refundable deposit of BD50 is required to register. Costs are inclusive of manuals, certification and registration in Japan, plus lunch, snacks and refreshments.

Call 17 594-575 / 39 606-712.

BALLET PERFORMANCE FEBRUARY SCHEHERAZADE 25 BALLET

Bahrain National Theatre

Held in commemoration of Arab Tourism Day, the Bahrain National Theatre hosts Scheherazade, a one-act ballet adaptation of the symphonic suite composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov based on the timeless One Thousand and One Nights. It was originally performed in 1910 by the Paris-based Ballet Russes, widely regarded as the most influential ballet company of the 20th century.

The event starts at 8pm.

Visit culture.gov.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

FINE DINING AT ITS BEST

FINE DINING - STREET FOOD - COFFEE HOUSE Villa 15, Road 335, Block 327, Al Adliyah, Kingdom of Bahrain +973 1758 0777

www.themrestaurant.com

bystander

To view more images, scan the QR code

Sheraton’s Christmas A Christmas lunch was held at Al Safir Restaurant, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

Associate Party

To view more images, scan the QR code

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel held its Annual Associate Party at its Awali Ballroom

Sheraton’s New Year

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel celebrated New Year’s Eve

30 February 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

this month

The Future of Hospitality, p34

Mutlaq Bin Hamad Al-Morished

RESTRUCTURING AND DISRUPTIVE CHANGE Mutlaq Bin Hamad Al-Morished is one of the most accomplished captains of industry to have emerged from Saudi Arabia having achieved an MBA from Stanford University, a Master’s in nuclear engineering from Princeton and a Bachelor’s in nuclear physics and mathematics from the University of Denver, USA. His specific fields of expertise include finance and engineering as well as company restructuring – he was given the nickname of ‘Butcher’. Here, the selfproclaimed liberal and advocate of progress tells us about his extraordinary education, the secrets of his success and his hopes for his country’s future.

“I think I was a typical Bedouin kid, born in the desert, first generation that learned how to read and write. I got to America because of government scholarships back in 1976 with no plan whatsoever,” he says. “I ended up at the University of Denver because I was good in maths and science and not so good at long sentences in English. I graduated in nuclear physics and mathematics and applied to a bunch of colleges, as I wanted to continue in nuclear engineering. I got accepted at Wisconsin and Princeton. When I told my student advisor he said: ‘Anybody who gets accepted at Princeton, who would even look at the rest?’”

Mutlaq worked in the nuclear industry but became bored and headed to Texas where he was with Shell Oil for about seven years before completing an MBA in finance at Stanford. Then, at his mother’s insistence, he returned to Saudi.

Moving around the Kingdom’s commercial sector for many years, he gained a reputation for company www.bahrainthismonth.com

restructuring and turnarounds executed with ruthless efficiency. He says: “The most important thing is to be honest. You cannot hide the fact that restructuring is going to involve unpleasant things. You have to communicate. Say: ‘Yes, we might let some people go but we’re not going to throw them to the wolves, we’re going to take care of them with proper compensation packages and so on’.

“I was approached by a journalist some years ago who said: ‘You let go more than one third of the workforce’. I said yes but that’s not the point, you should be looking at the reverse, I saved two thirds of the workforce. So, the name of the game is to save the business and to save the livelihood of the majority of the employees.

“You must stick with the plan and do it professionally. And the CEO of a restructured business must lead personally. The biggest mistake I’ve seen in my career is when a consultant is hired and told ‘go and make this business good’. Well, sorry, that does not work in real life because a consultant doesn’t know your business as well as you. In Sabic I Iead the restructuring of Hadeed, Sabic Europe in Holland, Sabic IP in USA and Shared Services in KSA.” After a stint as chief financial officer at Sabic, the Middle East’s largest public company, where he ended up “being able to do it with my eyes closed…I was bored”, Mutlaq took over as CEO of Tasnee, the National Industrialisation Company, which is Saudi Arabia’s second-largest industrial company and one of the world’s largest producers of titanium dioxide.

Mutlaq explains: “We’re a conglomerate, we operate

Keep on Trucking, p36

Scan the code to view a video of the whole interview.

View more info online

February 2019 31

interview along three main lines – one is pet chem – ethylene, polypropylene and so on. And then we operate on the titanium dioxide side where we are the world’s second/third, each year – the numbers change, it depends on production or revenue. And the third is the downstream, where we actually make all kinds of stuff. From traps to milk bottles. We make metal, axles for 18-wheeler trucks, we make 1.5 million units of car batteries, which we export. And now we’ve entered the titanium production business and will soon be manufacturing 10 per cent of the world’s titanium metal, which is strategic as it goes into planes, nuclear submarines and stuff like that.

“At Tasnee we’ve restructured the company.

It was difficult in the beginning but, thank God, now we’re back to profitability. We’re doing well and the company will now start expanding.

Restructuring of a business is not an easy thing and it’s not for the faint at heart. It’s something that’s not pleasant but has to be done and I’ve been through this at other companies. You know, they used to call it the butcher’s game because you have to go cut staff, restructure, close offices, close businesses and so on because you reach a point, as a business, like a human being, that, God forbid, you have a cancer in the hand. You have to choose, are you going to cut your hand to save your body or are you going to die with your arm.”

Having held numerous directorships and committee memberships, Mutlaq has scaled back but maintains his board role with Bahrain’s Alba as well as a few other select publicly-traded companies. He is also a founding member of and still active with the Board of Directors Institute (BDI). He explains: “It’s a non-profit organisation which is my contribution to society in the GCC. It teaches people correct governance, how board members should be trained, how they should do their job and so on. We encourage gender diversity, bringing ladies into the board rooms.

Those are the things we promote.”

As a committed reformer, Mutlaq is also very optimistic about the journey Saudi is currently undergoing. He says: “Honestly, I’ve been through the good and the bad days and I think it’s exciting. This is something my generation really wanted to see, the opening of the country, doing things, giving people opportunities, including women. We were, unfortunately, stagnating for many, many years.

“I think the country is finally moving. Yes, there is pain with change. When you change anything, there will be some losers and some winners and a lot of losers from the old system are going to fight. But, in any country, old ways must give way to the new, the world is changing 32 February 2019

AMIC leadership during a site tour

whether we like it or not, and we must change with it. It’s great. It’s good to see young people in charge of the government, to see things happening, women driving, opportunities for everybody, getting into the country more easily, open social networks, having concerts et cetera. Economically, it’s the right thing to do.

You know, people complain but economics, at the end of the day, is going to win.”

“I think the changes bring more opportunities. Imagine, just women driving, how much opportunity for buying new cars, fixing cars, legal, insurance, banking loans – it’s a huge multiplier in the economy. For me personally, I have a daughter and I’m happy to see her go to drive and I’m happy for her to go without an abaya. Why not? It’s overdue change, I’m glad it has happened in my lifetime and happy to see the good future for my daughter. You call me a liberal? So, what. Yes, I am a liberal but I don’t take that label – people say liberal or conservative but it’s what you think is right.

“I think the impact of social change will be significant because it opens new doors because in the past you had half the population

more or less out of the market except for a few things like clothes and jewellery. Now you have that half entering the market, so that’s creating a big multiplier in the economy. It’s significant, women working will create two-income families. More money does add a multiplier in the economy and, at the end of the day, the economy survives through circulation of money.

“I think this cultural thing [opposition to change] is oversold. Totally over exaggerated. I come from a Bedouin family, what is more traditional than that? None of my family is against this. Everybody is happy it is happening.

These were a bunch of Bedouins a few years ago and they’re happy to see it. It’s the logical thing to happen. It was just stopped, we were working against logic, thank God we’re going back to logic!”

Mutlaq had a great deal more to say including on the expansion of Alba, advice for small businesses, his work hard-play hard philosophy, the need for personal time management, his love for the Bahraini people and a strong desire, at this stage of his career, to give back through free university talks and classes and his work with the BDI. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

David Leman, chief HR officer, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International, outlines how the company is engaging Arab youth with training and development.

David Leman

THE FUTURE OF HOSPITALITY

LIZ O’REILLY

Please tell us about Tahseen — what it is and what it does.

Tahseen is a unique hospitality training programme developed in partnership with Cornell University. It focuses on fast tracking the next generation of hospitality leaders in the Middle East by providing them with firsthand experience and a springboard to launch successful careers in the industry. The highly individualised programme focuses on practical application across all departments as well as an in-depth understanding of leadership skills led by teams across Marriott International’s participating hotels The programme runs for the course of 12 to 18 months and provides the candidates with operational experience and theoretical training, empowering them with the knowledge, skills and experience to accelerate in leadership roles. In addition, participants also get handson experience through the Cornell e-learning platforms and the Cornell University-led development programme tailored specifically for the programme.

How was the programme developed?

We wanted to develop a programme that provides Arab youth, looking to lead successful careers in the hospitality industry, with ample opportunities to expand their knowledge and develop skills. We believe in developing talent in the markets where we operate and are specifically focused on increasing the number of nationals who are employed across our 34 February 2019

As long as you have a passion for the hospitality industry you can be a part of Tahseen, even if you belong to an entirely different sector.” region. As such, we developed Tahseen in conjunction with Cornell University and supported by key partner DUR Hospitality.

For the past couple of years, we have been working hard to create a paradigm shift on how hospitality is perceived as an industry by Arab nationals. We have worked towards showcasing hospitality as a rewarding and fulfilling career option to the next generation of hoteliers while increasing brand awareness in individual markets within this region. With Tahseen, we saw an opportunity to play a more active role in recruiting, training and retaining these associates, by providing fulfilling career opportunities for growth and development in the region.

What are the benefits for Tahseen graduates?

Over the duration of the course, Tahseen graduates will be fully immersed into all

aspects of the business with opportunities to learn and develop their skills and industry knowledge for managerial roles. The programme offered graduates six months of cross-exposure across all departments, as well as six to 12 months of departmental specialisation, led by a team of professional leaders across Marriott International’s participating hotels, as well as access to our world-renowned core management development programmes. All these learning options will help the graduates implement the knowledge in their future roles.

Upon completion of the course, all participants received their Tahseen Diplomas as well as a Certificate in Hospitality Management from Cornell University. And, most importantly, they move into leadership positions in our hotels.

I understand your first intake of students graduated in September last year, in Saudi Arabia. How many were in this batch and how has it affected their working lives so far?

Last year, we had 30 graduates. All of them went through the development programme that focused on overall hotel knowledge, skill development in their department of choice and theoretical certification with Cornell University.

After completing the programme, 28 out of the 30 were promoted to managerial positions in multiple departments such as food and beverage management and room operations including housekeeping. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview The latest intake began in January, how many are on this course and how were they chosen?

Was the course oversubscribed?

We had a lot of interest for Tahseen, both internally and externally. More so internally as our associates were able to see the success of their colleagues, understand the depth of knowledge gained from the programme and were inspired to receive the same opportunities and promotions.

We have an evaluation process in place for each candidate. We conducted several assessment tests where each candidate was scored against specific criteria which helped us hand-pick candidates who best fit our profile for this programme. This year we have nearly 40 candidates from Saudi Arabia and Bahrain and we are looking forward to seeing this new batch make their own success stories with Tahseen.

Are you taking students purely from Marriott properties, or can others participate?

It is open for our internal associates as well as external candidates. As long as you have a passion for the hospitality industry you can be a part of Tahseen, even if you belong to an entirely different sector. For example, one of our candidates studied medicine and is now the assistant wedding manager at one of our hotels, while another studied human resources management or business administration and found their passion for food and beverage operations. We really have some inspiring career paths.

Which is the most popular area of the hospitality sector for applicants?

That’s hard to say as hospitality is a very diverse field that offers an array of career opportunities. It really depends on the

Bahrain colleagues examine course literature

preference of the candidates and which areas they would like to excel in. We have a large number of candidates that like sales, marketing, human resources or finance, but there are some that prefer culinary, food and beverage or rooms division. In general, most candidates love the guest interaction, be it B2B or B2C. We also bring new positions into the programme based on the candidates’ interests and, so, for this year’s batch we added engineering positions as well.

Professional Development Foundation (PDF), last year in July. Now in our second year of Tahseen in KSA, we have extended the programme to Bahrain nationals looking to develop their careers in the hospitality industry.

These individuals will join the programme in Saudi Arabia but also gain operational experience and training across the company’s hotels in Bahrain. I cannot specify where we will launch next, however we are looking to launch the programme across the wider region.

I understand there are now plans to roll out the programme across the wider region. Can you outline the timeline for this?

Following the success of the programme in Saudi Arabia, we launched Tahseen in Egypt, in partnership with Helwan University and

Anything else you would like to add?

As a company, we believe in putting people first.

We are committed to giving our associates world-class training and opportunities to grow and be successful within the hospitality industry.

A programme like Tahseen, that supports and builds national talent, imparts quality hospitality education in the region by opening doors of opportunity for the Arab youth.

Tahseen falls under Marriott International’s new Sustainability and Social Impact Platform, Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction, which guides how the company makes a positive and sustainable impact wherever it does business. From empowerment opportunities to sustainable hotel development, the platform is designed to foster business growth while balancing the needs of associates, customers, owners, the environment and communities. One of the priority areas, or “coordinates”, of Serve 360 is Empower Through Opportunity. Tahseen is a programme that directly supports and brings this vision to life.

Candidates of Tahseen Saudi Arabia at the launch event

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 35

interview

A passion for coffee combined with an ability for sales has led Mohammad Saiyed to the truck life.

Mohammad Saiyed

LIZ O’REILLY

KEEP ON TRUCKING

M

ohammad is a familiar face around the island, turning up at festivals and events with his original wooden-box-style coffee stalls. But his plan was always to have a coffee truck and, having launched just that as part of his company Kool’s last year, business is going from strength to strength.

He explains: “I used to have a mobile café which used wood carts. I connected with Bahrain Tourism to attend their events and they said I needed to have something unique. When I got the opportunity for the Light Festival, they wanted karts in the shape of a cup. It looks like a cup of coffee and has a machine and grinder.

It’s inspired by 1960s’ Dairy Queen carts. It’s something different which makes people remember us.

“But then I thought I would like to move around outdoors so I designed a coffee truck.

The launch was at Yalla Banat, the big event at the BIC last October.”

The entrepreneur explains that the idea was to be near the food trucks because if someone buys food they always want a drink and those trucks, because they concentrate on food, don’t have much variety. “For us, we make fresh in line with customers’ tastes,” he says. “We have special syrups and a lot of varieties to choose from. In the Food Festival, happening this 36 February 2019

In the Food Festival, happening this month, there are a lot of vendors but I think I am unique in my offering.” month, there are a lot of vendors but I think I am unique in my offering.”

A coffee lover, Mohammad was born and brought up in Bahrain and used to go to Caribou. His initial inspiration came when he read the Sales Acceleration Formula book and became determined to start his own business.

He continues: “I started to use the principles of the book to see what I could sell and help people – I wanted to use my knowledge of coffee and sales. Then I started thinking how to be different. All the cafés were in a physical location. I wanted to take my plan [for the truck] forward but couldn’t get investment at that time, so I came up with the idea to build the mobile coffee stalls.

“People started to know us from doing the festivals and the coffee truck, which is now the face of the main business, was launched last year.”

The coffee comes from a local supplier, using Planet Donut coffee beans, and Mohammad imports sauces from France to create the different tastes – 37 of them to be exact.

He laughs: “In the beginning it was hard because I had to taste test everything and get feedback from others. It took two or three months of creating my own drinks – they had to taste good not just look good. Not all are unique but there are lots that are. You have to have the regular makes as well.”

When I was reading my book, I wanted something I knew about. I was studying sales online in a café and I knew I wanted something different. I looked at ingredients and began preparing a list of what others have so that when I had my own coffee, it would be something different.

Since the truck launched, things have been going well and Mohammad has big plans for the future. He says: “It was my passion to have my own business. It was always my plan to have a truck. Every day when I have calls from [event] organisers, it drives me to do more and motivates me to grow further. The ultimate destination is not Bahrain. I’m already talking to a company in India to franchise. I want to take it outside Bahrain myself too. Maybe start with GCC and grow from there.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Crowne Plaza New Year’s Eve

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Crowne Plaza Bahrain celebrated New Year’s Eve

To view more images, scan the QR code

February 2019 37

commercebusinessbites

Women’s Hospital To Open

Dairy Soap Meets Standards Peninsula Dairy Farms has been awarded the ISO 22716 Good Manufacturing Practices for Cosmetics certificate by Intertek, a leading total quality assurance provider to industries worldwide.

It’s a first for Peninsula and also the first time Intertek has issued the certification in Bahrain.

Peninsula Dairy Farms produces vegetables on hydroponic farms, goat dairy products, as well as soap created from goat milk.

ISO 22716 introduces a management systems approach to documenting and regulating the production, control, storage and shipment of cosmetic products. The ISO standard’s guidelines also provide cosmetic manufacturers with practical methods for managing the many factors that can affect product quality.

Peninsula Dairy Farms GM, Sheikh Rashid Khalifa Al Khalifa, said: “I feel extremely proud of Peninsula Dairy Farms on this unique and remarkable achievement. I would like to thank Intertek for its professionalism and support throughout the process.

Intertek is an exceptional and strategic partner that helped our team obtain this important ISO 22716 GMP certification.”

The long-awaited Royal Hospital for Women is gearing towards opening in mid-2019. It recently held its first meeting of the board of directors since the acquisition of a majority stake (69.3 per cent) by Amanat Holdings PJSC and significant progress has been made on hiring and commissioning plans for the female-focused facility.

Board chairman, Hamad Abdulla Al Shamsi, said: “The Royal Hospital for Women (RHW) will be among the most advanced medical facilities, built to cater to the specialised healthcare needs of women. Underpinned by the progress made on hiring, solid infrastructure equipped with cutting-edge medical equipment and the support of our operating partner, the hospital is on track to become the leading women’s healthcare facility in the Kingdom, and is in the final stages of appointing a leading multinational healthcare service provider as the operating partner. This partner will assist RHW in implementing pre-operational initiatives and managing operations.”

Designed to provide comprehensive care to inpatients and outpatients, the hospital’s state-of-the-art facilities will include advanced operating theatres, high dependency rooms, labour and delivery rooms as well as daycare/minor procedure rooms. RHW will also include the first and only Level–III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit among private hospitals in Bahrain.

Calling Unreasonable Thinkers

Developing Bahraini Talent As part of its ongoing efforts to develop the bank’s talent base and build a world-class leadership team, Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB) has announced the appointment of Ameer Abdul Ghani Dairi as chief financial officer.

Ameer holds a BSc in accounting from the University of Bahrain, and joined BisB in 2007 with more than 19 years of experience in financial management at a number of commercial banks in the Kingdom. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) from New Hampshire Board of Accountancy, USA and a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), licensed by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, USA. He also represents the bank as a board member in Liquidity Management Centre (LMC) and Adaad Real Estate Company.

38 February 2019

Falak Consulting is hosting its third annual Falak Unreasonable Thinking Summit 2019 on March 3 and 4 under the patronage of HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Oil. Suhail Al-Oraibi, founder and CEO of Falak Consulting, said: “Creativity and Innovation have become the main driving force of the global economy in today’s everchanging world, and if we are to realize Bahrain’s Economic Vision, especially in the area of economy diversification and sustainability, we must know what is happening

around the world and learn from the success stories – as well as attempts – in the various fields.”

Supported by GPIC, Tamkeen, EDB (Startup Bahrain), Peninsula Farms and Kuwait Financial House, the summit will present an array of local, regional and international speakers featuring social and business entrepreneurs, politicians, strategists and corporate executives to introduce the audience to the latest in creativity and innovation.

The summit is free but spaces are limited. Register at http:// unreasonablethinking.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

commercebusinessbites

Video Calling launched As part of its keenness to better serve all segments of society, including the deaf and those with hearing impairments, the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA), in cooperation with call centre service contractor Silah Gulf, has launched a video call service for its consumer call centre.

The new feature allows any android user to initiate a video call directly to TRA on 81188 to submit their complaints and enquiries.

The initiative comes in response to the message recently launched by Omar Farooq in social networking accounts “I am deaf”, which highlighted the challenges faced by the deaf and people with hearing impairments. It is also in response to a recent conference on accessibility for those with specific needs and the introduction of consumer rights under the TRA’s Consumer Protection Regulation.

Shaikh Nasser bin Mohamed Al Khalifa, the TRA’s acting director general, said the organisation takes its responsibility to special needs users seriously and will continue to improve services for them.

AI-Powered Solutions Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) and I.AM+ have joined forces to introduce groundbreaking AI-powered customer-focused solutions.

In a move announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos, MAF is to partner with Los Angeles-based technology company, I.AM+.

Founded by innovator and global music artist, will.i.am, I.AM+ will offer MAF its Omega platform, an AI-powered conversational and contextual voice assistant that will enable an entirely new level of experiential retail at various customer touchpoints.

The technology delivers deep cross domain knowledge for a seamless customer experience, by passing and sharing common traits across several industries and services. The solution addresses a rising gap between what consumers want from their shopping experience and the level of satisfaction with their experiences across various domains.

MAF aspires to be as prominent digitally as it is physically by adding a digital dimension to its businesses and enhancing its data and analytics capabilities.

Tour Guides Recognised

Enabling Bahraini Youth AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation has signed an agreement with Tamkeen to support a number of programmes to enhance the skills of Bahraini youth and prepare them to embark on their careers. The foundation works through its Rayaat Scholarships Programme, as well as training youth within the Ithra’a Youth Enrichment Programme, which is being supported by Tamkeen for the first time this year.

AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation has so far offered more than 270 scholarships for students, enrolling them in different programmes, according to each individual’s natural orientations, capabilities and skills, while taking into consideration labour market needs and www.bahrainthismonth.com

Economic Vision 2030.

The Rayaat Programme offers training sessions and workshops that aim to reinforce self-esteem, develop self-assertion, and enhance speaking, management and communication skills, with a focus on English fluency, giving students a good platform to engage in the market and fulfill their roles. It also offers scholarships for students to enroll in any of the accredited universities in the Kingdom and is packed with other benefits, among which are incentives, workshops, and training opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

The Ithra Programme aims to promote a culture of giving back to society through voluntary service.

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) honoured 85 tour guides during a graduation ceremony held in the presence of the BTEA CEO, HE Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa.

Certificates were distributed to the second batch of tour guides following the successful completion of the comprehensive training programme organised by the authority in collaboration with Tamkeen, United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and the World Federation of Tourist Guides Associations (WTFGA).

“Through launching this initiative in collaboration with the UNWTO and WTFGA, the BTEA has increased the number of certified tour guides in the Kingdom to 185 in order to meet market needs,” said Shaikh Khaled.

Involving both theoretical and hands-on training of the candidates, the final week of the programme was dedicated to selecting the best candidates to be trained as trainers.

The programme’s aim is to attract additional tourists to the island as well as increasing their length of stay.

February 2019 39

bystander

Gulf Hotel’s New Year

New Year’s Eve was celebrated at Gulf Hotel Bahrain

To view more images, scan the QR code

Get your favourite partner anytime at www.redhousemarketing.com

redhousemarketing 40 February 2019

redhousemarketing

rhmbahrain

redhousemarketing www.bahrainthismonth.com

fintechfeature

Talking Tech With a fintech revolution unfolding across the region, BTM takes a look at what’s happening in the local market.

Fintech, or financial technology, has become an almost unnoticed part of our everyday lives.

From early online banking, it has become an area in which there are new developments so rapidly that it is sometimes hard to keep up.

The award-winning Bahrain FinTech Bay is the Middle East’s leading fintech hub which, among numerous other publications, even produced its own manifesto in December 2018.

It is also due to host MENA’s first ‘Fintech for Sustainability Hackathon’ starting this month.

Running over four weeks and open to Bahrain university students, industry experts will provide educational sessions on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fintech industry trends, and the opportunities for connecting the industry to sustainability in the context of Bahrain.

This month too, Bahrain will host the MEA Fintech Forum and in March the island will welcome the Fintech Congress and Exhibition.

The forum will look at issues such as: What will the banking sector look like in 10 years?

How do we include all people, no matter how wealthy or poor, in the opportunities presented www.bahrainthismonth.com

by fintech? What role can micro-entrepreneurs play? What will the technology of tomorrow look like? How far will artificial intelligence replace your job in banking? Why do we need banking and not banks?

In Bahrain, and across the region, one of the major players in the fintech market is AFS – Arab Financial Services (AFS), which services more than 75 clients across the financial sector in more than 21 countries. It is owned by 39 banks and financial institutions and regulated by the Central Bank of Bahrain.

Bwallet, introduced by the company last year, was the first mobile wallet facilitating peer-to-peer and cashless transactions. Today, it is the market leader across the Kingdom.

EasyPay was another first from AFS - Bahrain’s first NFC payment service allowing payments with a tap of the mobile. Other innovations rolled out by AFS have been electronic KYC, Peer-to-Peer (P2P), Peer-to-Merchant (P2M), QR enabled payments, Tokenization, Remittance, WPS and Digital Banking solutions.

Such is the importance of this market sector that, in October 2018, Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance signed an MoU with AFS to launch a graduate development programme under the “Payments Academy” to train and upskill financial services personnel and those

who are engaged in technology solutions related to payments, while opening up new career prospects in this growing market segment.

And in January this year, the Bahrain branch of the global FinTech Consortium announced the launch of Georgetown University’s Professional Development Program in FinTech, an online interactive course specifically designed for professionals in the GCC. Also, in January, it was announced that UK-based technology company Innervate has chosen Bahrain to open its first regional office servicing the financial sector as the Kingdom strives to transform into a digital economy.

Bahrain’s financial sector has a solid and trusted reputation and the government has recently passed several new world-leading regulations in support of open banking. This, coupled with the enthusiasm from both government and private sector to not only embrace fintech but to become the region’s leader in the sector, bodes well for the market both in terms of positivity and job and revenue creation.

Bahrain has already seen an influx of fintech firms aiming to grab a slice of, what promises to be, a lucrative regional market and the increase in activity and investment shows no signs of stopping.

February 2019 41

fintechfeature

Pria Mason Tanwar

Everyday Fintech Financial expert Pria Mason Tanwar says fintech is an inevitable union, making our lives seamless.

42 February 2019

The trickle-down economic theory works on the premise that whatever benefits accrue to the highest income categories eventually filter down to the lower income categories as well. One of the many reasons this could be true, is that, for organisations offering these benefits, they can experiment on a niche (small numbers and rich) audience and eventually realise the economic benefits of scale by providing the same to a wider audience. Banking services work on this concept. Technology works on this concept. It was a matter of time for the two business areas to join hands and become one unique product. And the world then welcomed Financial Technology or “fintech”.

Fintech today is all around us and we often take it for granted. That simple SMS you get when you withdraw money from an ATM – that’s fintech at play.

The internet banking that you use. The mobile app for your bank. Banks have found ways, through technology, to make themselves easily accessible to you. And the more accessible they are through technology, the more you tend to interact with them or “use their services”. If you have payee added to your mobile banking app already or one app makes it easier to add versus the other, you are more likely to use that app. And when you use that app and transfer that money, who is the one who benefits the most?

That’s right, your company or bank does.

Through fintech, even entities that don’t traditionally offer banking or money-related services are able to. For example, your Batelco b-wallet or the Viva Cash. These are payment systems integrated into applications created by our mobile service providers.

This makes your mobile operator’s app a one-stop shop for you. You can recharge your phone, send money to other numbers and buy your groceries or cinema tickets all in one simple app.

Ever wonder why this makes great business sense? The answer is simple, when you load your

wallet or prepaid card, for example, you provide the company with up-front cash which they are then free to use. They reward you for this upfront payment with ease of payments and with deals and promotions. And they can do this because the up-front cash you give them, when aggregated, is worth so much more than the deals they can provide. For you, its money you can use anywhere, making it a perfect win-win.

For expatriates who regularly send money home, most money transfer agencies now have apps that allow you to link bank accounts and send money home with a click of a button. EWA bills, phone bills and even school fees – all with just a click. Food can be ordered with an app – and again you can add money to the app so that you don’t have to have cash lying around.

The key area of caution is, however, the safety of the money you give up front. So, if you’re adding money to your Amazon prepaid card, Amazon is a large well-established company and it’s unlikely that anything will go wrong. Likewise, for any established local business operator. The danger lies in treating all fintech providers as equal. Because your money is only really as safe as the person you are entrusting it with. And with technology, the fancy application and the easy front-end makes us forget that there is a back-end to it all.

Technology that allows us to interact with money has quickly become so deeply embedded in our daily lives that we find it inconvenient when we must try to make payments. We have taken its seamlessness for granted, in a way. That’s the way all easy habits form, isn’t it? Its so easy to get used to something so good and simple. But remember, all that’s good comes with a price. It does not mean you don’t buy it, it just means that you stay aware of that price. Always.

You can follow Pria’s Instagram account at money_cues or view her profile at http://www.i2dconsulting.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

fintechfeature ARAB FINANCIAL SERVICES

Smart Solutions Wyndham Garden’s New Year

New Year’s Eve was celebrated at Wyndham Garden Manama

To view more images, scan the QR code

Shiraz Ali explains AFS’ expansion into fintech services.

When did AFS first become involved in fintech?

We delved into fintech in 2016 – Shiraz Ali a time when Bahrain’s fintech ecosystem promoted strategic collaboration between banks and fintech developers to adopt innovative solutions and the regulatory environment was encouraging innovation. That year, we refreshed AFS’ business strategy in light of the paradigm shift in the payments industry and in anticipation of the emergence and uptake of mobile payments.

What form did this take?

We began by introducing Bahrain’s first tap-and-pay mobile payment solution in 2017. Following this, we introduced bwallet in 2018 — the first mobile wallet in Bahrain to facilitate peer-to-peer money transfers; the first cloud-based financial offering in Bahrain and the first product to offer electronic KYC (You’re your Customer) service. Today, bwallet is an award-winning mobile payments solution, with a significant user and merchant footprint. We are also expanding into other geographies with our wallet offering.

We also took the lead in contributing to the financial inclusion strategy of the government of Bahrain. Our Digital Payroll Programme benefits employers and employees, giving the unbanked access to digital financial products. Our Digital Banking offering empowers banks, taking their business further in the digital space. AFS’ X Border Remittance allows our customers to send and receive global remittances digitally.

Can you explain how bwallet, one of the most popular services in Bahrain, was developed?

AFS led the way in Bahrain’s mobile wallet and payments space, positively disrupting the market when we introduced bwallet.

We scanned the environment and conducted extensive market research, ultimately selecting both the best product and best-fitting provider to partner with. We expanded the fintech arena by introducing non-banking players into the market. This was the first partnership between a financial services provider and a telco for digital wallet in Bahrain.

What is the current growth rate on bwallet and what are future plans?

We have received an overwhelmingly positive response. Tens of thousands of people joined the bwallet family in its first year.

Transaction volumes are exponentially increasing and AFS is committed to building awareness around the opportunities and potential of a digital cashless society. We also expanded the merchant acceptance ecosystem – merchants accepting bwallet today span a broad spectrum of industries including hospitals, hotels, schools, retail outlets and more.

We have plans to add many innovative and exciting value-added services to bwallet system in 2019.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 43

bystander

Mercure’s Christmas

To view more images, scan the QR code

A Christmas brunch was held at Neyran Restaurant, Mercure Grand Hotel

Mercure’s New Year

New Year’s Eve was celebrated at Neyran Restaurant, Mercure Grand Hotel

To view more images, scan the QR code

AlSairafi’s Party Debbie and Jaffer AlSairafi held a Christmas party at their home

44 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOTORING

this month

Simpleh Loveleh..., p46

My Life in Cars DICK POTTER I know I’m a little late but I wish you all a very Happy New Year – and that extends to your cars too, whatever you may drive.

Now, you quite possibly drive a practical, everyday car.

At times, however, you may just find yourself daydreaming about owning a Ferrari, a Lamborghini, a McLaren or a Bugatti, those thoroughbreds of the automobile world. And why not, they go very fast, attract plenty of attention in traffic – and there’s the forelock tugging of the valet when pulling up at some swanky hotel. But are they really all that? Well, they are. Yet they can also be total nightmares. Here's why.

It depends if you are ‘A Polisher’ of your supercar or ‘A Driver’. Let me explain.

Back in Blighty at Christmas, as well as seeing family, Shirl and I also had the pleasure of catching up with old friends. One couple that we stayed with had recently moved into a stunningly revamped pile in the countryside. This lovely home lies at the bottom of a lane. A seriously pot-holed lane, I may add. Since it’s a public lane/road, the onus is not on our friends to repair it. So, not a problem then. Except, the couple own a Ferrari – a rather envy-inducing 1992 348ts it is too.

Now, you are very likely aware that ground clearance isn't a supercar forte. It can't be – the aerodynamics of these high-performance machines are designed to keep them glued to the road and not bouncing up pot-holed lanes. It somewhat takes from the pleasure of driving your supercar if you have to constantly navigate the potholes dotted in your own driveway. But not if you’re our friend Trent-Trent who www.bahrainthismonth.com

owns the Ferrari.

Trent is, I decided, A driver and I am A Polisher. He very kindly took me for a spin in his lovely car and expertly navigated those potholes, clearly enjoying carousing the country roads in it. I did say it was December, that means country roads liberally coated with rain and mud. A Polisher, such as I, does not consider that supercars are allowed to be dirty or even smudged. Trent, being A Driver, is clearly not of that school of thought. The implicit requirement that such cars must be maintained in showroom-new condition does not cross the mind of A Driver. Every single time A Polisher cleans his supercar, the task demands great detailing including a vast array of cloths and buckets – no nipping down to the car wash for A Polisher then.

When it rains, A Polisher will consider it best to keep his supercar inside.

Being A Driver, Trent happily parked his beautiful car in the tiny parking lot of a country pub for our lunch. A Polisher, such as I, considers the safest place to park your precious thoroughbred is your own garage surely? A public car park? How could A Polisher possibly relax while it's parked, what about the inevitable dings and scratches? That is not to say, I hasten to add, that Trent does not care about his car.

He does. Immensely so, but he also enjoys driving it like a normal car. As we bid our friends goodbye the next morning, I gave a last glance at Trent’s beautiful car and vowed to be more of A Driver this year. That is not to say I won’t continue to be A Polisher also, but, thanks to Trent, I have more appreciation that there is no art without struggle.

Happy 2019 driving all. dick@redhousemarketing.com

First Aid for Cars, p47

An Inspired Launch, p48

Intelligent Mobility, p48

View more info online

February 2019 45

motoring

Simpleh Loveleh...

The new Mercedes-Benz C200

Dick Potter discovers that the new C-Class models from Mercedes-Benz are a sharp step up from their predecessors.

When I was asked by Ed to test drive two new Mercedes, and to take each one for a full day, it took me a nano-second to say yes!

Ed said it was the new C200 and C300 models, OK I thought, which ones are they? In my more frequently occurring senile moments, I get confused with letters and numbers not only with Mercedes but with also with other manufacturers. I liked it when they called a car a Spitfire, a Cooper, Interceptor Testarossa or Countach.

I digress, back to the Mercs. On day one, upon exiting my trusty old E280 Mercedes model in Al Haddad customer car park, I was met with a quite “simpleh loveleh” C200.

As I nestled into the seat the seatbelt kindly glided out of a side recess to greet me – and remind me to wear it – my senses were then hit with the interior aromas and visuals. The ergonomic layout of the car is stunning. Full stop.

Alas, in Bahrain – as indeed every other place in the world – it can be a tad difficult to road test owing to speed limits. A distinct lack of challenging roads here doesn’t help either. However, given the luxuriousness of my cockpit, believe me, being stuck in traffic wasn’t exactly a hardship.

Eventually on the open road towards Zallaq, my word, this car was smooth and responsive and, with the pedal to the metal, fast. The Heads Up Display (HUD) keeping me up to date on various data.

Incidentally on the C200 if you want to keep to speed limits then this clever car can be programmed to not exceed a specific speed which is excellent news for forgetful people like me to avoid incurring speeding tickets.

The C200 is a two door – perfect for the younger set perhaps as a typical family might be a tad cramped and the trunk is on the smallish size. But hey, this is Bahrain so who needs a big trunk?

The next day’s drive in the C300 was as pleasurable, albeit in a more family-orientated model, with four doors and a bigger trunk. The ergonomic design is much the same as the C200 with a slightly more sedate look than its racier C200 sister. That said, it still had a lot of oomph with a light responsive feel.

In the past, the C series was really just a sporty looking version of the saloon. This is not so now. The new C Class models are lighter than their predecessors utilising more aluminum and other lighter composite materials which results in a sportier car but with a stronger body.

Both models possess the latest driving assisted features. This allows the driver to pilot the car semi autonomously utilising camera and radar seeing up to 500 metres ahead.

We extend a very warm welcome to these two lovely models; stylish, progressive, comfortable and fun – a bit like myself really, but more expensive!

Scan to see Dick’s videos with the C series sisters.

The new Mercedes-Benz C300

46 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringnews&launches

First Aid for Cars

A Sporty Return After years of releasing snippets of info and “leaks” Toyota finally revealed its long-awaited Supra sports car at the 2019 Detroit Motor Show.

Reprising the name after a 17-year absence from the market, the Supra was developed in partnership with BMW which will release the mechanically identical Z4 Roadster later this year.

The Supra has two seats and a shorter

Al Haddad Motors has introduced Mercedes-Benz SMART repairs – first aid for minor vehicle damage. No matter how careful you are little dents and bumps happen. SMART Repairs allows you to get them fixed quickly and efficiently to the high standards you would expect from a MercedesBenz dealership.

Using state-of-the-art repair technology, tools and GenuineParts the Mercedes-Benz certified technicians can fix several types of minor damage caused by wear and tear, reactions to the atmosphere/nature, and small accidents.

Through the Mercedes-Benz Repair Systems, you can prolong your vehicle’s durability as minor issues are repaired as soon as they occur minimising the probability of them developing into major issues.

The Mercedes-Benz Repair System covers of a wide variety of repair procedures such as dent removal, plastic repair, chip and scuff repair and paintwork rejuvenation as well as maintenance on parts that includes wheel and headlamp rejuvenation.

wheelbase than the current 86, which was developed with Subaru. It also boasts a wider track, big tyres and an equalised weight distribution which it’s claimed will enhance stability and handling.

Under the bonnet there’s a three-litre, sixcylinder turbo, so the car is designed to be equally at home on the track.

With impressive looks and performance, the first 2020 Toyota Supra sold for USD2.1 million in Mahindra XUV 500 a charity auction after its show debut.

AD 12.5 x 9.4 cm.pdf

1

1/28/19

10:24 AM

New Soft-Top Porsche AG has announced the official start of sales for the 911 Cabriolet. Initially available as the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet and 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet, the latest soft-top versions of the brand’s iconic sports car include all the innovative features of the coupe, along with convertiblespecific elements, such as new hydraulics responsible for opening and closing the roof quicker than ever before.

The new 911 Carrera S Cabriolet with rear-wheel drive and 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet with all-wheel drive both rely on a sixcylinder boxer engine with 450hp (331 kW) at 6,500rpm and 530Nm torque between 2,300 and 5,000rpm. Thanks to an improved injection process, drive efficiency has been increased whilst emissions were reduced. The 911 Carrera S Cabriolet accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds (with optional Sport Chrono Package: 3.7 seconds) and can reach speeds up to 306km/h. The 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet attains a top speed of 304km/h and achieves 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds (with optional Sport Chrono Package: 3.6 seconds).

The exterior design draws on earlier generations of the 911 though the new 911 Cabriolet looks wider, more self-assured and altogether more muscular than its predecessor. www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 47

motoringnews&launches

An Inspired Launch

Showing Market Commitment International Motor Trading Agency (IMTA), the Kingdom’s authorised distributor for Mazda passenger vehicles, has shown its commitment to the Bahrain market with the launch of a brand-new Mazda showroom in Sitra.

The state-of-the-art facility is spread over 3,753sq/m and has been built at a substantial investment to offer new and existing customers the opportunity to experience the famous brand firsthand in a refreshing new setting.

Designed after extensive research and customer feedback, the new showroom reinvigorates the customer experience, offering new car sales, servicing, finance packages and leasing deals.

Staff are fully geared to receive the 7th Generation automobiles from Mazda and, as a first step, IMTA started sales operations in Sitra in January 2019; service and spare parts are expected to open soon.

IMTA is also building a massive car service centre in Isa Town, spread over 16,000sq/m, details of which will be revealed later.

INFINITI previewed the brand’s electric future with the unveiling of its new QX Inspiration concept at the 2019 North American International Auto Show - Detroit.

The vehicle demonstrates the brand’s plans for high-performance electrified vehicles, offering complete range confidence, while signaling a new era for INFINITI design enabled by new technology.

Infused with Japanese DNA, a refreshed form language hints at the potency and character of the brand’s future electrified powertrains.

The development of new electric vehicle platforms enables the formation of spacious, lounge-like interiors. In the case of the QX Inspiration concept, the cabin has been hand-crafted using traditional techniques and a choice of materials inspired by a subtle Japanese sensuality. New interior technology follows the Japanese hospitality principle of ‘omotenashi’, creating a welcoming environment, while assisting drivers and connecting occupants to the world around them.

“QX Inspiration is the beginning of a new era for INFINITI, and an illustration of where we want to go with the brand. New technology has given us the opportunity to evolve our design philosophy – and the new vehicle communicates the ‘serene strength’ at our core,” says Karim Habib, INFINITI’s executive design director.

Intelligent Mobility Nissan’s new all-wheel-drive electric car creates a segment of its own. The Nissan IMs, unveiled at the 2019 North American International Auto Show, is a completely new type of car – an “elevated sports sedan” that takes advantage of the packaging, platform and powertrain technology developed through Nissan Intelligent Mobility.

While closer to a sedan than a crossover, the IMs concept’s revolutionary proportions create a vehicle segment all of its own. It is defined by its pure electric-vehicle identity, with the battery located under the body, elevating cabin height. Its stretched interior space, a result of the vehicle’s extended wheelbase, features unique “2+1+2” seating architecture.

48 February 2019

The powerful exterior and interior design of the IMs is made possible by the innovative electric and autonomous technology developed through Nissan Intelligent Mobility, the company’s vision for changing how cars are powered, driven and integrated into society.

The IMs’ electric powertrain consists of dual electric motors (front and rear) and a fast charging 115kWh battery that generates 483hp (360 kW) and 590lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, ensuring that the concept car will not only keep up with modern-day sports sedans but leave most of them in the dust. Capable of travelling an estimated 380 miles on a single charge, the IMs is on the same playing field with its gasoline-powered counterparts in terms of range. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Circus Party

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A New Year’s Eve Circus party was held at Azure, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

WE ARE NOW OPEN IN SITRA TO SERVE YOU

SITRA TEL : 17706010 Follow us on

Mazdabahrain

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SHOWROOM TIMINGS: MORNING - 8:00AM TILL 12:30PM EVENING - 3:30PM TILL 7:00PM

VISIT US AT

SITRA

February 2019 49

bystander

Four Seasons’ Christmas

A Christmas Day musical brunch was held at Bahrain Bay Kitchen, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Sofitel’s Christmas

A Christmas brunch was held at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Crowne Plaza’s Christmas

A Christmas lunch was held at La Mosaique/Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Bahrain 50 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sofitel’s New Year

New Year’s Eve was celebrated at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

To view more images, scan the QR code

Intimate St. Valentine’s Dinner Packages

Intertwined With Elegance & Flavour, Starting From BD50net Per Couple.

Valentine’s Luxury Sea View Room Packages

Starting From BD135net Complete With Romantic Dinner & Breakfast For Two. 1763 6363 | h6722@sofitel.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com BTM HP1.indd 3

February 51 1/21/19 2019 10:55 AM

valentine’sdining

The Food of Love Whether you’re part of a loved-up couple, just starting out in a new relationship, looking to reignite the spark or something in between, Valentine’s, on February 14, is the day for lovers and the island’s eateries are going out of their way to put love on the menu.

Al Areen Treat yourself and your beloved to a romantic dinner in one of the Private Island Gazebos.

Experience a special five-course menu, welcome drinks, 20 per cent off on a couples’ massage, romantic set-up with rose petals, flowers, candles and music.

Or you could opt for an extra romantic setting at Keizo restaurant. Enjoy a set-menu for two, roses and take-away chocolates while being serenade by a violinist and live singer.

Call 17 845-000.

ART Rotana Flames Steak & Seafood has a special evening in store with a glass of bubbles on arrival and a specially created cocktail at your table to the tune of a violinist. There’s a four-course set menu with grape pairings, sparkling and cocktails. The price is BD42, with soft drinks, and BD55 with selected beverages. www.bahrainthismonth.com

At WU, you can hang your romantic wishes under the cherry blossom tree and enjoy a fourcourse dinner to the sounds of DJ Katrin Love for BD48 per couple, including soft drinks, or BD70 with selected beverages.

Italian venue Rosso offers a sharing menu while choices is putting on a fabulous seafood buffet.

Call 16 000-111.

Le Meridien Show your love with special Valentine’s Day recipes, romantic date night dinners, and decadent chocolaty desserts. Since Valentine’s Day coincides with the weekly Seafood Night, you’ll get to enjoy a wide range of seafood dishes in a romantic setting at the same price of BD25 including soft drinks or BD31 including selected beverages.

Call 17 171-441.

The Westin City Centre Bahrain Nasmat Pool & Lounge has various options for Valentine’s Day. There’s a special set-up in the middle of the pool with exclusive cabanas at BD350 per couple including selected beverages. Or you can enjoy dinner poolside in a private cabana at BD50 per couple including

soft drinks or BD60 with selected beverages.

Dinner at a regular poolside table costs BD35 per couple or BD45 with selected drinks.

If you prefer to take it inside, you can enjoy dinner in a private pod at the Mezzanine Bar and Lounge for BD50 or BD60 with selected beverages. Or book a regular table for BD35 per couple or BD45 with selected drinks.

Furn Bistro & Bakery also has a range of offers including dinner at the Furn Studio at BD200 per couple inclusive or a table in the private dining area for BD80 per couple inclusive.

Call 17 171-441.

K Hotel

February 2019 53

valentine’sdining Royal Golf Club Grab your significant other and head to the Royal Golf Club for a four-course dinner for two at Links restaurant. You’ll receive a gift for the man and the woman, a rose for the ladies and a bottle of red or white grape. Dinner is accompanied with live entertainment from Elton & Hameed. The price is BD50 per couple and booking is essential.

Call 17 751-262.

K Hotel

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Dine under the stars as Thai and La Plage welcome you to a unique Valentine’s experience under the breathtaking views of the night sky and the glittering Arabian Gulf. Enjoy a special outdoor cinema setting with the Cabana package, priced at BD200 per couple, which includes a five-course menu and a bottle of selected beverage.

Cantina Kahlo has a four-course set menu at BD28 per person or BD39 per couple. And at Primavera the highlight of the BD32 per person four-course menu is the homemade tortelli filled with veal shank, peach and sage sauce.

Enjoy sous vide baby lamb shanks with freshly ground spices as part of the five-course set menu at Nirvana for BD25 per person or head to Plums to relish four courses at BD36 per person.

At the Lobby Lounge there’s a themed afternoon tea for BD21, per set, or check out the sweet delights including a special “Love me Tender” red heart-shaped cake at BD20.

Call 17 586-499.

and spa day pass and 20 per cent spa discount all priced at BD110 per couple or BD158 with drinks.

For a daytime treat, Bay View Lounge has a super-indulgent afternoon tea at BD17 per person or BD31.500 for two. Running February 10-16, noon-9pm.

Call 17 115-500.

For a celebrity-style Valentine’s, take your pick from the two Wolfgang Puck restaurants; re/ Asian Cuisine offers innovative dishes with views from the 50th floor, or head to CUT Steakhouse and one of the island’s most romantic dining experiences. For an indulgent treat, both menus will include Beluga Caviar. Price per person is BD55 for an optional four-course menu. The à la carte menu will also be available.

Call re/ Asian Cuisine 17 115-046 or CUT by Wolfgang Puck 17 115-044.

The Domain Hotel and Spa Check out the romantic Kaiseki menu at Imari at BD55++ per couple including flowers and a bottle of pink sparkling. Or head to Le Sauvage on both February 14 and 15 for a three-course dinner complete with sparkling and a personal Polaroid to remember the occasion.

Call 36 557-992.

Rainforest Lounge You’re guaranteed a wild night at Rainforest Lounge at Gulf Suites Hotel – Amwaj where there’s a Valentine’s Party featuring DJ Zack and the Latin Soul Band. The dress code is red and white and you can get a three-course dinner and a bottle of house grape for BD20 per couple or take advantage of the BD18 per person unlimited beverage offer.

Call 34 018-408.

InterContinental Regency Bahrain Enjoy a night of ‘all things divine and delicious’ at Legendz Steakhouse with a beautifully prepared four-course menu accompanied with a glass of bubbly to add to the romance. The price BD28.

Call 17 227-777.

Regency InterContinental

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay What could be more romantic than roses, chocolates, bubbles and a stunning beachside location with the waves lapping the shore and a gentle breeze? Allow your private butler to serve the four-course Mediterranean dinner with influences from Italy at The Beach for BD145 with soft drinks or BD194 per couple including selected beverages. The price includes a complimentary day pass at the Four Seasons Beach and Spa for two, as well as a 20 per cent discount for any treatment.

The Deck is the ideal spot for alfresco candle-lit romance offering four courses of delicious dining with roses, chocolates, beach 54 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

valentine’sdining The Gulf Hotel There’s a wealth of choices at this five-star favourite. Head to Royal Thai for an unforgettable five-course menu crafted by chef Wasanee including a welcome drink. There’s limited outdoor seating available with special table decoration. The price is BD50 per couple.

There are very special menus at the Italian eatery, La Pergola by Perbellini, and Margerita Mexicana while Rasoi by Vineet has a fivecourse menu with a special table set-up at BD29 per person.

Celebrate Valentine’s the Japanese way at Sato in one of the romantic Tatami rooms with a special set menu by new chef Kudo and chef Kevin.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Or dine under the stars at Typhoon which will be setting out a limited number of candle-lit tables around the hotel’s gorgeous pool. The price if BD89 per couple and includes a bottle of bubbly.

And Café Delices has the ultimate indulgence with heart-shaped cakes from 1pm-10pm.

Call 17 713-000.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Crowne Plaza Bahrain Discover the flavours of authentic Indian food at Spices with a special set menu for two (vegetarian or non-vegetarian) including two glasses of house grape for BD24 including selected beverages. Or head to Waves for a three-course menu with a glass of grape for BD15.

You can also stock up on heart-shaped cakes at Cappuccino from February 1-14.

Call 17 531-122.

Mövenpick Go for a Valentine’s Day Thursday Night Out at the Mövenpick and ignite the flames of passion over a decadent dinner with a lavish spread of seasonal ingredients that come together in an exquisite presentation of delicious dishes from land and sea.

Start the evening with oysters or sushi and enjoy the live grill of premium cuts as well as Beef Wellington all rounded off with a gorgeous chocolate-inspired dessert buffet. The price is BD65 per couple, including unlimited premium beverages.

Call 17 460-017.

Book Your

Dream Summer Wedding This Season

BD17net per person* on Weekends BD15net per person* on Weekdays

50% OFF Summer Wedding Decorations + Attractive, Customised Staff Uniforms For Weddings Offered For more details, please contact our specialized Wedding Manager, Ms. Rowena Manalang, on +(973)1763 6341 or h6722-sl4@sofitel.com Terms & Conditions: This offer is valid during May, June, July and August 2019 (not applicable on black-out dates, Eid holidays and special occasions).

Minimum 250 guests. *Above prices are subject to 5% VAT.

BTM HP1.indd 2 www.bahrainthismonth.com

1/21/19 10:55 AM

February 2019 55

valentine’sdining

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Get those taste buds flirting at Ruka, the rooftop lounge and restaurant on the 24th floor, where chef Raman will cook up a sumptuous feast that couples can enjoy sharing, along with stunning evening views of the city. The special sharing menu is priced at BD38, inclusive of a bottle of sparkling grape, or BD34 with soft drinks.

Aashiqui (which translates to romantic love) will be on at Tanatan, the hotel’s Indian restaurant promising a hot and spicy Valentine’s Day at BD24, inclusive of sparkling grape, or BD19 with soft beverages. Prices are per couple.

K Hotel The K Valentine’s package is a great gift idea.

Your deluxe room is upgraded to a junior suite, decorated with candles and rose-petals. During the day, enjoy a massage or salon treatment with a 20-per-cent discount. In the evening, head to the KOLORS restaurant to savour the very best of regional and international gastronomy. The package price is BD80.

To mark the occasion, KOLORS, which will be decorated with rose petals, balloons and candles. Enjoy a special Valentine’s Day dinner buffet along with house-made gourmet chocolates and two glasses of bubbly per person, priced at BD25 per couple.

Call 17 360-000.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Push the boat out with the hotel’s Romantic Beach Dinner in a private cabana. It’s outdoor, candle-lit and includes a personal butler, a bottle of sparkling and a gourmet Valentine’s Day cake. The price is BD360 and reservations are open until February 12 with advance payment required.

Call 34 331-779 or 17 636-363.

56 February 2019

A romantic Italian getaway awaits you at Fiamma where you’ll have a unique, fine-dining experience with a tempting selection of culinary delights. There’ll be live musical performances to set the scene. And you could surprise your significant other with an overnight stay for BD135 – which includes breakfast and dinner.

Head to La Mer for a candle-lit dinner by the sea at the five-star, French seafood restaurant.

Priced at BD50 per couple, including a bottle of grape and a Valentine’s cake, or BD135 with a room package.

Pashawat offers exotic flavours and the finest selection of authentic Lebanese delicacies accompanied by music and belly dancing. The price is BD75 including a bottle of grape and a cake or BD155 with a room.

Extend Valentine’s into the The Red Velvet Friday Brunch, on February 15, with 25 per cent

discount for those who come dressed in red.

The brunch is BD32 with soft drinks or BD36 including selected beverages.

Book a Luxury Room with sea view for only BD149, inclusive of buffet breakfast and Red Velvet Friday Brunch access for two.

Call 17 636-363.

Wyndham Garden Jashan offers a five-course meal at the poolside with a bottle of sparkling and live entertainment for just BD30++ per couple.

Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands Ya Halla celebrates Valentines with a threecourse, candle-lit dinner accompanied by live romantic music. You’ll also enjoy two glasses of sparkling and heart chocolates all for just BD12.

Call 16 000-099.

La Fontaine La Fontaine, one of the most romantic venues in Bahrain, will be treating you and your beloved to a night full of love this Valentine’s day. Enjoy a special menu designed by a visiting chef while you listen to Franky Flowerz on his Saxophone and enjoy the stars above. The price is BD50 per couple or BD27.500 per person.

Call 17 230-123.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Soie Restaurant.

There’s a special set menu at BD36.140 or BD48.025 per couple and ladies receive a rose and heart-shaped cookies.

Or head to Al Safir for live entertainment and special Valentine’s Dinner buffet at BD12.900+++ per person including a rose and heart-shaped cookies for the ladies.

Call 17 533-533. www.bahrainthismonth.com

COUPLE

PACKAGE

Rain Shower Rose Exfoliation Salt Scrub 60-min Body Massage Milk & Rose Bath or Chocolate Bath Relaxation & Refreshments

+973 17845081

liveyourlifebahrain

live your life

Valid for the month of February 2019

valentine’sgifting

for

HIM

Presents With Presence Cupid’s heading in our direction and a surefire way to get noticed is with a gift they’ll love and remember. From the pocket-friendly to big-budget buys, we’ve got something for everyone.

Map of the Stars from the day you met Available at etsy.com

Refillable Sriracha Keychain Available at urbanoutfitters.com

Bose Noise-Masking Sleep Buds Available at ashrafsbahrain.com

USB Mixtape Cassette flash drive Available at amazon.com

L.U.C XPS Twist QF watch by Chopard Available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre

Personalised Barbecue Tool Set with canvas tote by Design’s the Limit Available at amazon.com

Perfect Pair personalised socks Available at gettingpersonal.co.uk

58 February 2019

Book Try Something New – 100 Fun & Creative Ways to Spend Time Together Available at gifts.com

Baboon Go Bag Duffle in red, yellow, orange, blue, black and white with dinosaur lining Available at baboontothemoon

www.bahrainthismonth.com

valentine’sgifting

for

HER St Laurent Loulou heart sunglasses Available at farfetch.com

Happy Sport watch by Chopard Available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

Bumblebee diamond earrings by Gucci Available at Gucci.

17 131-218.

Slip pure silk pillowcase Available at slip.com

Personalised print with your names in Scrabble-type tiles Available at gettingpersonal.co.uk Christian Louboutin Raisa shoes Available at mytheresa.com

Charm necklace Roberto Cavalli Available at Roberto Cavalli, 17 281-011.

Love Poems book band set Available at juniperbooks.com Personalised ‘I love you to the moon and back’ chocolate Available at gettingpersonal.co.uk

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 59

DINING

this month

Gloriously Gourmet, p62

Flavours of India, p65

Catch of the Day, p66

Take a Culinary Class, p68

View more info online

60 February 2019

Plus Ça Change, Plus C’est La Même Chose Liz O’Reilly discovered that there’s a stunning change in the air at one of Bahrain’s favourite Italian restaurants, Cico’s.

Chef Cyrille Troesch has worked with a number of food legends, such as Michel Roux, Gerard Boyer and Raymond Blanc – for whom he was executive chef at Le Petit Blanc at the Queens Hotel, Cheltenham. And now he’s the director of food and beverage at Cico’s. Just take a minute to let that sink in.

Yes, folks, this much-loved Bahrain institution, that’s been serving islanders wholesome Italian fare for almost 40 years, is upping its culinary game, and in a big way. And, when someone of that calibre invites you to check out some additions to his menu, the only possible answer is “when?”

Arriving on a quiet lunchtime, the shift in atmosphere was immediately evident. The staff, wearing jauntily placed straw fedoras and each rechristened with an appropriately Italian-sounding name, were buzzing. Not overly officious but eager to serve and please, their interactions with their new boss demonstrating a sense of fun.

A bread basket – all homemade – quickly arrived at our table, accompanied by, what my dining companion declared, some of the best tapenade on the island. Tart with vinegar but with the richly blended flavour of the olives, anchovies and garlic still instantly recogniseable.

Chef Cyrille had prepared our menus and I was

dismayed to discover one of the starters was Fois Gras.

Yes, I eat meat, but, because of the production method, this is something I’ve always avoided having eaten it only once, by mistake.

However, I was about to get a big surprise. When I voiced my concerns, the chef explained that he, indeed, shares them and took the delicacy off his menu many years ago. Now though, no doubt due to market pressure, there are a small number of farms in France and Spain producing non-force-fed Fois Gras. He not only uses it, but has the certificate to prove it. Be still my beating heart!

So, à table to a beautifully presented salmon carpaccio and the aforementioned Fois Gras. Unlike the paté I had mistakenly consumed in the past, this was not overly fatty but rather incredibly smooth and comforting; happy-making on the tastebuds, if that’s even a word. Both strongly flavoured and tender at the same time.

The salmon presented the perfect texture but was a little bland for both our palates. When mentioned to the chef, this elicited not a tantrum but rather the phrase “I’m not precious, perhaps you are right, maybe I will try it with a little aged balsamic”. The vinegar added by my friend did indeed do the trick.

As an additional course, we were served a whole Canadian lobster, tender juicy meat dripping with flavour. My companion even enjoyed the cauliflower that accompanied it, much to her own surprise.

dining Newsflash, Cico’s has installed a tank and will soon be serving these delightful crustaceans, fresh from the water and at a very reasonable price.

On to the main course and chef Cyrille, ever the showman, as befits a proper star chef, presented local faskar fish. Oven baked, it was brought to us en papillote and sat on the table as we watched bowls of mushroom risotto being finished in a giant Parmesan wheel.

Tipped inside the cheese, the rice was delicately agitated as piquant Parmesan slivers were absorbed from the sides. I have news for you, friends, Ambrosia is not the food of the gods – this is.

The fish’s foil parcel was dramatically split open, amid billows of fragrance and steam, and the faskar was very professionally served, with not a morsel of the delicately flavoured flesh going to waste. Then we were left to tuck in.

opened her restaurant It’s Filmy Opening Pearlyn ‘It’s Filmy’ in Zinj

Silence!

I have been lucky to have many amazing food adventures in Bahrain, but there are few that have rendered both myself and my regular foodie companion speechless – apart from the odd incomprehensible squeak of pure joy.

The risotto was absolutely divine. Contrary to what some food snobs will dictate, I’m not a fan of any rice dish served al dente. Unless perfectly executed, which is extremely hard in a busy kitchen, to me, it always tends towards gritty. This was not. At all.

Beautifully yielding and creamy with the flavour of high-quality mushrooms, not cooked to within an inch of their fungi souls, combined with Parmesan and truffle oil; for this one dish alone, I would return again and again.

The fish, happily, lived up to its rice accompaniment; firm white flesh imbued with the tastes and scents of the vegetables and light herbs with which it was cooked, it flaked on the fork and melted in the mouth. And, even better, it’s local, so a great introduction to an often-ignored, ecofriendly option.

Though more than replete, one sight of dessert: chocolate fondant – made with Valrhona no less, the chef is French after all – topped with spun saffron sugar and accompanied by homemade yoghurt icecream, and we were powerless to resist. The chocolate melted, and we melted right along with it. Need I say more?

Change is indeed afoot at Cico’s. But fear not, chef Cyrille is not planning to deprive long-term regulars of their favourites – though you just might find they taste a bit better these days.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Youth Sports Project The Launch of the Youth SportsProject Phase 2 was held at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel

To view more images, scan the QR code

February 2019 61

tablehopping

GLORIOUSLY GOURMET

When? Till end of March Event? Unlimited Sushi Venue? Keizo, Al Areen Palace & Spa

You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy sushi! Head over to Keizo and enjoy all you can eat from the sushi set menu with soft beverages included. The price is BD9++ per person.

Call 17 845-000.

When? Until February 8 Event? Festa Italiana: Apulia (Italian Food Festival) Venue? Fiamma Restaurant, Sofitel Bahrain

Join Chef Marco on an exciting culinary journey through Italy, spotlighting exclusive delights from Apulia. The weekends are even more special with a flavour packed buffet, live cooking stations and fantastic live musical performances. The price is BD20 with soft drinks or BD25 with selected beverages.

Call 17 636-363.

When? Sunday-Wednesdat Event? Business Lunch Buffet Venue? Neryan, Mercure Grand Hotel

The hotel hosts a grand Turkish Business Lunch Buffet, featuring traditional Turkish delicacies ranging from grills to everyone’s favourites, Baklava and Kanafeh.

The price is BD7.

Call 32 000-621.

When? Tuesdays Event? Catch of the Day Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Head to Waves at the Crowne Plaza and enjoy a great deal on a huge range of seafood cooked to your liking for BD18.

Call 17 532-122.

When? Thursdays Event? BBQ Night Venue? Bar de La Plage, RitzCarlton, Bahrain

Grill and chill for an exclusive barbecue dining experience.

Enjoy an assortment of tender meats, sauces, side dishes and desserts at the beautiful beachfront restaurant, while listening to live entertainment.

Price BD20 with soft drinks, BD30 with selected beverages.

Call 17 586-499.

62 February 2019

In the mood for fine dining, a fresh coffee or Indian street food? You can have it all under one roof at The M Restaurant, which is located in Adliya and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The multi-cuisine venue serves Arabic, Continental, Chinese and Indian cuisine. Food lovers can enjoy distinctively delicious food designed to satisfy your cravings. Relax, socialise and dine in an elegant atmosphere while you relish an exceptional food experience.

The restaurant seeks to offer a genuine and authentic glimpse of traditions through its food, art, ambiance and service. By sharing stories and flavours, it fosters a mutual appreciation of cultures. In short, The M Restaurant sports a chic ambience that sets the tone for the multifaceted menu, giving a perfect dining experience to guests who expect only the best quality of food blended with flavours that will make them return time and again.

A spokesman says: “Your visit will be a compliment to everyone in our restaurant, soon to be known as a remarkable food place in Bahrain.”

Call 17 580-777.

ISLAND FIRST It’s Filmy in Hala Plaza, Zinj, is the island’s first ever Bollywood-themed Indian restaurant and is quickly proving a force to reckon with on Bahrain’s restaurant scene. This innovative and unique concept offers guests an amusing and tasty dining experience.

At the entrance, patrons are welcomed with a red carpet photobooth where they can have a fun time clicking selfies with various props, before they head upstairs to the dining area. Each and every element that makes up the décor is thoughtfully planned, adding to the typical ‘Mumbai Bollywood’ charm of the venue – from the place mats to the murals, which are definite conversation starters.

The menu includes out-of-the-box dishes like Chicken Sev Puri, Paneer Sev Puri and Spicy Masala Fries to Chocolate Pani Puri. It also offers authentic Parsi dishes and guarantees the best chicken and mutton dum biryani. The restaurant is open for lunch from noon3pm, and for dinner from 7pm-11pm, on all days except Sundays.

Call 17 592-020.

NEW FLAVOURS Block 338 is awash with restaurants new and old, licensed and not, but few outlets have managed to capture the imagination and gratification of their clientele as much as the recently opened Haus, in Adliya.

Designed and conceptualised by a husband and wife team made up by Ahmed Mahmood Fakroo and his wife Sara, who also own Raw in Saar, in its first two months of operation it has had a positively dramatic effect on the dining scene in the area.

The concept is simple; inspired by their culinary experiences in Marbella and beyond, its sobriquet relates to nothing German as such; instead referring to the wholesome goodness of home cooking and baking on the menu developed collaboratively by Sara and the executive chef in residence.

The menu could be described as being a modern eclectic fusion of fresh flavours which strongly appeal to their prime target audience of ‘thirty-something Bahraini well-to-dos’.

It may be still the honeymoon period of Haus, but the recipe for success seems to be efficient and viable already.

Call 17 592-020. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Le Meridien’s Christmas

A Christmas lunch was held at Baharat Restaurant, Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain

To view more images, scan the QR code

Le Meridien’s New Year New Year’s Eve was celebrated at Baharat Restaurant , Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain

64 February 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

FLAVOURS OF INDIA Late last month, another licensed establishment opened up in Adliya’s Block 338 offering an exquisite dining experience. Indigo blends fine Indian dining with a modern elegant ambience featuring soothing music from a live ghazal band.

Spread over three floors, the restaurant offers a seated eating area on the second floor complemented with a sports bar facility and outdoor garden on the third floor. Asian food lovers will relish the sophisticated blend and vibrancy of flavours, including both vegetarian and nonvegetarian Indian classics.

Renowned chef and partner, Wilfred Coelho, personally oversees the mouthwatering menu providing an unforgettable experience for dedicated diners of Indian cuisine looking for authentic quality and value.

Be sure to visit in the first two weeks of February, since special offers and promotions are planned to further ensure customer satisfaction to all concerned.

Call 33 098-603.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

FOUR MORE HANDS

The latest superstar chef to bring his talents to Bahrain’s own degustation venue, Mahonia, is Mauro Colagreco. An Argentinian of French origin, he arrived in France in 2001 working with Michelin-starred legends such as Bernard Loiseau, Alain Passard, Alain Ducasse and Guy Martin before setting up his own restaurant in Menton, Mirazur. Just a year later, he earned his first Michelin Star! By 2009, Mirazur was ranked 35th in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and in 2012, he gained his second Michelin Star. By 2016, the eatery was at number six on that list and last year it had made it to number three. Since his restaurant is on the coast and closed for three months of the year, chef Mauro loves to travel and create extraordinary meals with his contemporaries across the world. Which is just what he will be doing when he joins chef Herve Pronzato to create one of the venue’s amazing Four Hands Dinners on February 28 and March 1.

Call 17 000-071.

February 2019 65

tablehopping When? Saturdays Event? Pearl of Arabia Night Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain Enjoy a great selection of traditional dishes for BD13 per person.

Call 17 532-122.

When? Saturdays Event? Brunch Fiesta Venue? Cantina Kahlo

Enjoy a delicious assortment of Mexican classics, selected beverages and heavenly desserts and sway to the synthesised beats of the Mariachi. Prices BD23 including soft drinks, BD36.500 with selected beverages.

Call 17 586-499.

When? Saturdays Event? Brunch Venue? re/Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck

Soak in the immersive views from the 50th floor and feast on mouthwatering Asian selections like Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns, Wok Fried Shrimp Dumplings and Brisket Wontons for BD26++ including soft beverages or BD36++ including premium beverages.

call 17 115-046.

When? Wednesdays Event? BBQ Venue? Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain

A stylish yet rustic barbecue experience on the terrace of Baharat Restaurant, showcasing BBQ ribs and Wagyu prime rib steak with live entertainment.

Buffet is BD19 including soft drinks and water, BD26, including selected free flow beverages.

MAKING FINE DINING AN ART Yann Bernard Lejard has been named executive chef of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. He will oversee the full menu creation and operations of the culinary division, including 130 chefs, 11 restaurants, in-room dining and banquet catering.

Daring, unique, and playful, are just a few words that come to mind when experiencing one of chef Yann’s signature dishes. Like a modern-day disruptor turning the simplicities of food into plated works of our art, his talents have taken him across Europe, into major MichelinStarred restaurants, before arriving to the region, first in Saudi and then to Bahrain in 2014 when he assumed the role of Chef de Cuisine for the award-winning Plums restaurant.

Born in Paris, France, Lejard began expressing himself through street art,

A NEW FAVOURITE Coral Bay Resort has added a new dining option to its extensive repertoire - Black Angus. The restaurant offers sumptuous steaks, seafood and a lot more, 24 hours a day. Located in the fully renovated upper section of the resort, it’s a new dining experience that’s bound to prove popular.

The menu offers everything from breakfast, lunch and dinner, to tasty snack. The chef has excelled himself in putting together a delicious modern menu to suit a wide range of tastes. The venue’s beef experts and bartenders are on hand to help you out with those all-important decisions - ribeye, sirloin, T-bone, rump, fillet, bigboy cuts – a steak for every occasion, a style for every taste.

Call 17 312-700.

CATCH OF THE DAY It’s Seafood Night every Monday at the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain’s Al Murjan Ballroom from 7pm – 11pm, where guests can experience a unique medley of extremely succulent seafood delicacies and taste the freshest catch.

Diners are assured of the best selection of popular and traditional dishes. On the buffet table is a vast range of aquatic delicacies, from sushi, sashimi, seafood dim sum, tempura, oysters, slipper lobster and tiger prawns to popular fish such as grouper and red snapper. The talented team of chefs will prepare your favourite catch, just the way you like it. The buffet costs BD24 per person including soft drinks and water, or BD29 per person, including unlimited selected grape, malt and soft drinks.

Call 17 460-017.

Call 17 171-144.

When? Wednesdays Event? Giro Pizza Venue? Medzo, InterContinental Regency Bahrain

Try the Giro Pizza offer, you will get unlimited pizza with a rotation of different flavours for only BD7.9 or BD14.9 net with unlimited brew.

Call 17 227-777.

When? Fridays Event? Grand Friday Brunch Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq

Saraya, Fiamma and Rivaaj restaurants join together to provide great food this huge brunch which has a special price throughout February. It’s BD32 with soft drinks and BD36 with selected beverages.

Call 17 636-363.

66 February 2019

taking inspiration from the likes of legend Jackson Pollock. Eventually becoming a chef by the age of 16, it was then that he found food to be a catalyst for artistic expression and where his signature, abstract style of “splattering” sauce on a plate was born.

Fast forward to the era of social media, Lejard’s accounts @YBLinc have since amassed a foodie cultist following of 120k fans, and those who can’t wait to see what he does next.

In addition to being frequently tapped as a guest chef for master classes and pop-up restaurants throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, he has also been a finalist at Le Taittinger Prix Culinaire in Switzerland, along with a ranking in the notable Gault & Millau restaurant guide, amongst other accolades.

Call 17 580-000.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS For the first time in the Kingdom, VResto, which stands for ‘virtual restaurant’ has officially launched in the heart of Adliya. The cloud kitchen aims to service the growing demand for quality food delivery in Bahrain with the convenience of ordering online; serving individuals as well as corporate clients through its catering services. The new

concept is the brainchild of Falcon Hospitality Group, and will offer four different cuisines from around the world with a single click; Asian fusion, Italian, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern as well as French pastries.

Follow @VRestoBH on Facebook www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Art Exhibition

The Bahrain Arts Society Photography Club held its annual exhibition

Food Is Culture

To view more images, scan the QR code

Mahonia executive chef Herve Pronzato partnered with renowned artist Nabeela Alkhayer to conceptualise a masterpiece of exploration between a methodical gastronomic genius and a free-spirited contemporary artist at the Bahrain Museum Foyer

Crowds Turnout for Festival City Launch Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority launched “Festival City� the main event of the fifth edition of Shop Bahrain. Taking place at Bahrain International Circuit, the event featured a range of retail and entertainment options for all the family

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 67

tablehopping When? Daily Venue? Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain Event? Burger and Ale Combo

TURNING ONE

TAKE A CULINARY CLASS

Try the mouth-watering homemade cheese burger plus an ice-cold pint of any draught brew of your choice.

Sunday to Thursday from 4pm-1am. Friday and Saturday from noon-1am.

Call 17 171-144.

When? Thursdays Event? Kebab Pairing Venue? Nirvana, Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

A perfect pairing of exotic kebabs and Indian beverage to start your weekend. Kebabs will be served unlimited and available in a variety of meats. Thursdays, lunch noon3pm, dinner 7pm-11.30pm. Price BD30 for two.

Call 17 586-499.

When? Thursdays Event? Sushi by the Beach Venue? Four Seasons Bahrain Bay

Enjoy a wide selection of sashimi, nigiri and maki rolls, all beautifully arranged to tempt and delight.

As the sun sets the resident music sommelier DJ EVO plays favoured tracks to instill a cool beachside vibe. Price BD20 including water, BD25 with a welcome glass of grape.

Call 17 115-500.

The hugely popular LNT Gastropub in Adliya celebrated its first anniversary last month. To mark the milestone, guests were served a welcome drink and light, pass-around appetisers from the chic outlet’s ‘grazing and sharing bites’ menu. The venue took this celebration as a fantastic opportunity to thank its loyal guests, suppliers and community for their support in helping it to successfully complete a year of great food and beverge. There was live music from Esraa J and DJ Katherine played tunes from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, that had guests dancing to the beats all evening up to closing time. LNT Gastropub has truly become a hot hangout for islanders, thanks to its home-away-fromhome atmosphere.

Call 17 246-777.

Join chef Marco at Fiamma Restaurant, located at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, to learn the fine art of authentic Italian cooking. The hands-on class is held every Saturday from 10am-noon, for the price of BD18 per person, inclusive of light lunch and soft beverages. Unlock the secrets of crafting the perfect pizza or pasta and many more special Italian culinary delights, bound to impress your friends and family. A minimum of six participants is required.

Call 17 636-363.

SEAFOOD BY THE POOL

A BRAND-NEW BRUNCH

When? Daily Event? Hulk Burger Promo Venue? Downtown, InterContinental Regency Bahrain

Are you burger lover? Here you go!

Enjoy a super-sized burger with one pound of patties served with homemade fries for only BD 9.

Call 17 227-777.

When? Thursdays Event? Seafood Buffet Night Venue? Neyran, Mercure Grand Hotel

From freshly cooked salmon to grilled prawns and everything in between, experience the best the sea has to offer with unlimited seafood dishes and two soft beverages for BD12 or or BD14 with two selected beverages. At Mercure, we always deliver the best and our seafood buffet will

Call 32 000-621.

When? Thursdays Event? Thursday Night Out Venue? Movenpick Hotel

Relish prime US beef, unlimited exotic cocktails and other beverages as well as gourmet food cooked to perfection and music from the resident DJ. The price is BD32 including unlimited beverages.

Call 17 460-017.

68 February 2019

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef introduces the new Al-Sofra Friday Brunch at Neyran Restaurant. It is an ideal way to enjoy the weekend in the heart of Bahrain, while you indulge in the ultimate culinary affair with live entertainment. The relaxed atmosphere is complemented with a variety of hot and cold salads, appetisers, intercontinental dishes and mouthwatering desserts! Free pool access is given to all brunch attendees. A dedicated kids’ play area with face painting, fun games, henna and much more is also arranged for. Get the complete urban brunch experience with the family for only BD14++, with selected beverages from 12.30pm to 4pm.

Call 32 000-621.

Pool Delight, the all-day dining restaurant at Reef Resort serving authentic Oriental and Mediterranean cuisines offers a Seafood BBQ Night every Thursday, priced at BD18++.

Enjoy a weekend getaway by the poolside overlooking the sparkling waters of Reef Island, with a relaxed outdoor terrace offering sparkling pool and sea views. Live cooking counters, including pizza and sharwarma, fresh local seafood with fish, prawns and squid straight from the grill, a selection of homemade pickles, Sushi and lip-smacking desserts make this seafood barbecue an evening not to be missed. Pool Delight also offers a daily à la carte menu and breakfast buffet on weekends, as well as sunset drinks at the waterfront lounge.

Call 13 110-110.

WINTER STAPLE The Soup Promotion at Golestan Restaurant at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, is just what you require for the cold season. Open for lunch from 12.30pm-3.30pm and dinner from 7.30pm-11.30pm, the venue serves some heart-warming special soups such as Soup-E-Pisto, Aash-EGandom And Soop-E-Morgh throughout February.

Call 17 533-533. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Grape and Cheese tasting

A grape and cheese tasting event was held at the rooftop of Lanterns Lounge, Adliya

To view more images, scan the QR code

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 69

diningchinesenewyear Four Seasons Bahrain Bay There’s a double chance to celebrate at this popular waterfront property. On February 9, re/ Asian Cuisine will be transformed with traditional Chinese decorations for the most important Chinese festival of the year. Live cooking stations will celebrate the day, with Wolfgang Puck’s innovative twist on popular Asian dishes. Brunch costs BD32 and the Live Cooking Stations Dinner is BD47.

Call 17 115-046.

Xīnnián hǎo Get ready to celebrate Chinese New Year with great offers across the island.

Crowne Plaza Bahrain La Mosaique restaurant at the Crowne Plaza invites you relish delicious fare as they celebrate Chinese New Year on Monday, February 8. Guests get to open a lucky red envelope to reveal a very special offer. Try your luck and see if you can save on your buffet price or be the lucky winner and get your meal for free.

Call 17 531-122.

The Gulf Hotel Chinese Master Chef Lu Yao will be visiting the hotel from February 5-9. Executive chef of the Yihe brand, he has worked for several five-star hotels and cooked for Chinese President Xi Jinping. He has certainly gained rich experience over his years in Chinese cuisine. If you fancy learning how to create your own Oriental dishes, chef Lu Yao will be conducting an exclusive cooking class on February 9.

He will also be in the kitchen at China Garden on February 5 to help you celebrate the Chinese New Year with authentic dishes such as spiced and sauced beef, oyster sauced money mushrooms, Jinling style crispy duck and more.

Call 17 713-000.

Bahrain Bay Kitchen’s brunch celebrates the Chinese New Year on February 8 by staging its own version.

Taking influence from Asia, staff will wok, steam and stir-fry some of the best-known Chinese dishes. There’ll be a live dim sum stand, a Peking duck station and even Malaysian Chinese Prosperity Tossed Salad and Singapore Chilli Crab. The cost is BD30.300 per person with soft drinks and BD42.400 with selected beverages.

Call 17 115-500.

ART Rotana Celebrate the beginning of the Chinese New Year with a delectable experience at WU restaurant featuring a modern twist from February 4-9.

WU’s Chef will create two distinct set menus for guests to choose from, each prepared with authentic Chinese ingredients to construct signature dishes fit for the occasion. To bring good fortune, on the 4th and 8th a Chinese artist will write each guest’s name with a feather pen on red paper to take home, and at the end of the evening, guests will receive a prosperous red envelope with a lucky voucher placed inside. The six-course set menu costs BD13 and it’s BD20 for eight courses. A beverage package is available for an additional BD10.

Call 16 000-111.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel The Sheraton’s Chinese outlet, Soie, will have a special set menu throughout New Year week, from February 4-8. Head down and sample some delicious traditional Chinese fare priced at BD20.374 per person inclusive of soft beverages or BD26.438 with free flow of selected beverages.

Call 17 533-533.

70 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander OTHER EVENTS

Arab Bank, Bahrain concluded its Leadership and Management Development Training Programme in collaboration with Tamkeen

Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands and Wyndham Garden Manama organised a beach clean-up drive at Juffair Beach

Two members of CrediMax staff were recognised at the annual ceremony held for honouring distinguished managers and diligent workers in the private sector organised by the Ministry of Labour at Crowne Plaza Bahrain

On the occasion of the 9th Bahrain Philippines Goodwill Basketball Games 2019, a press conference was held in honour of the Philippines National Basketball Team at Kolors Restaurant, The K Hotel

A Bahrain Malayalee Business Forum was held at Atiram Premier Hotel with special guest of honour Yathish Chandra IPS (Commissioner of Police, India)

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, in partnership with American Express Middle East, supported Think Pink Bahrain in the crusade against breast cancer

72 February 2018

On the occasion of the French Arabian Business School ESSEC MBA Honouring Ceremony, HE CĂŠcile LongĂŠ, Ambassador of France, hosted a reception at the Residence of France

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

Scan the code to go to the second page

Automatic Hose Reel Retract a hose at the touch of a button with the Automatic Hose Reel.

The built-in motor will rotate the reel and retract the 115’ hose without tangles in a matter of 30 seconds. The reel is powered by a rechargeable battery with the rotor being able to retract the hose 50 times on a full charge. The reel will swivel 180 degrees when mounted on a wall and 360 degrees when mounted on a deck surface.

Available from www.amazon.com

In-Car DVR Vehicle Accident Camera To protect you on the dangerous roads of the Kingdom, this front-facing, high-definition DVR and crash camera with a 120-degree viewing angle and digital zoom will make sure all possible accidents are captured on its LCD display. It records sound and video in full HD and has GPS, GPS logging, Google Maps and a speedometer.

Available from Sharaf DG.

Magnetic Madness Coasters Super strong neodymium magnets inside uniquely designed wood. These coasters, a mixture of everyday essentials and artistic furniture, are designed for all kinds of tastes and various situations in daily life. Strong magnets are integrated in each coaster to ensure that they will always stay together and leave no mess.

Available from www.amazon.com

Snow Peak Magnetic Lapel Torch A bright and versatile hands-free LED light, this gadget clips to your shirt, backpack or elsewhere with a powerful magnetic clasp.

It’s attached to its battery pack via a long cord and has multiple light modes.

Available from www.red5.co.uk

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

Available from Amazon.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 73

technologygames

Below Verdict: A disappointing end product from a promising idea.

Rating:

What is it?

In the mysterious game Below, gamers test their adventurer mettle against The Isle’s procedural subterranean labyrinths. Explore a large, interconnected underworld crawling with cunning creatures, deadly traps and a mysterious shadowy presence. Survive the perils of The Depths and unearth what lies below... or die trying. Below embraces exploration and discovery – illuminate the path ahead, find hidden passages and unravel the deepest mysteries hidden in the darkness.

Gameplay

From the enemies to the environment art to the sound design, everything falls into place perfectly to create a spooky atmosphere of unveiling the unknown, never quite knowing what might lie down the next flight of stairs. Then you step on a cheap insta-kill spike trap, have to start over without any of your stuff, and likely need to spend the next 30 minutes farming lantern fuel and bat meat so you can take another crack at it. That’s Below in a nutshell … some fantastic ideas and direction, only to kill the mood as quickly as it’s established with endless frustration.

Resident Evil 2 Remake

Twenty years after the original release of Resident Evil 2, it’s time to return to Raccoon City. Both Leon and Claire are playable through separate storylines, each bringing with them a unique perspective on the game’s events as their paths intertwine to tell the complete tale. While many of the locations may look similar in design to the original, this museum turned police station is full of surprises for both seasoned veterans and newcomers alike. Various puzzles to solve and completely new areas to explore await those who dare to set foot inside the expansive building.

74 February 2019

Graphics

From the relatively serene, dewy caves where the journey starts all the way down to the hellish pits far underground that you really need to see for yourself, each set of levels has a strong identity.

Particularly enjoyable is the Necropolis section right around the middle, which is full of hungry ghouls and unsettling bone monoliths.

Tropico 6

El Presidente is back! In times of political turmoil and social unrest, the people are calling for visionary leaders, who will steer their country with foresight and ingenuity.

Prove yourself once again as a feared dictator or peace-loving statesman on the island state of Tropico and shape the fate of your nation through four distinctive eras. Face new challenges on the international stage keeping the needs of your people in mind. For the first time, manage extensive archipelagos, build bridges to connect islands and use new means of transportation and infrastructure.

Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story + Bowser Jr’s Journey

Fawful tricks Bowser into eating a magic mushroom. This causes Bowser to begin inhaling everything around him, including Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach! Do the Mario Bros have the guts to rescue Peach and escape? In this Nintendo 3DS remake of a classic Mario & Luigi action RPG adventure, fans can replay (or play for the first time) Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story with new graphics and a new mode that tells the behind-the-scenes story of Bowser Jr.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

technologywebsites

VERDICT:

Site: www.lifehacker.com Rating:

Fun and informative resource to help you take shortcuts in your daily life.

What is it?

Lifehacker is a hub of productivity tips, tricks and downloads. It’s basically an archive of all the information it would be incredibly useful to know, but nobody ever really teaches you. Aside from productivity, it also covers topics such as money-saving tips, clever uses for household items and so on.

The Good

Lifehacker is a very diverse site. You will find a variety of subjects, tutorials, videos and other stuff that you may find in other places, but not in such a collection as this. You can find news and technology also mixed in with walkthroughs and great photos. The inventions and tips to bypass strict and accepted conventions are riveting, amusing and will change the way you go about daily life.

The Bad

There’s so much content on the website that it can be hard to find posts on specific topics. There is an index, but it doesn’t work nearly as well as it should and the introduction to the top-performing posts and tips could be much more detailed.

www.haveibeenpwned.com Have I Been Pwned? collects the email addresses and usernames exposed by various high-profile hacks to let you know if your personal data has been compromised. Simply enter an email address or username you commonly use and the site will cross-check it against recent data breaches,

telling you which companies leaked your data and which types of data have been leaked.

www.mentalfloss.com Mental Floss is a super-addictive online magazine with articles covering a really wide range of topics. The pieces are well written, well-researched, and usually on topics that don’t get a lot of airtime.

Best of all is the ‘Big Questions’ section, which tackles weirdly intriguing questions like why shells sound like the ocean and why www.bahrainthismonth.com

yawns are contagious. Readers can even submit their own big questions after they’ve spent hours getting lost in seas of facts.

February 2019 75

technologyapps

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

App: Filteract Rating: Verdict: A useful and easy-to-use image editing app with a

wide variety of features.

What is it?

Filteract is a photo editing app that allows photographers to selectively apply filters onto images. If you are looking for a standalone app that lets you be selective about how to apply your filters, then Filteract could be worth a look.

The Good

It has a simple and clean design that tries to stay out of the way so you can focus on the photographs at hand. The app has a dark theme, as most photo editor apps do, which places the emphasis on your images for each screen section. The icons for each tool are pretty straightforward and recognisable, so there isn’t much of a learning curve here. The filters at the bottom give you a preview of what your image would look like with it applied, which means less guesswork and faster results.

The app is responsive and renders filters quickly on images, which is always a good thing. Overall, Filteract’s minimalistic design makes it easy to get your photos in, edit them with a few taps and pinches, and then be on your way to share your creations.

The Bad

Since the app is free, it will stamp a watermark on all of your images before it saves. It’s a bit too large and obtrusive, since it features the logo and is always in the bottom right corner. To remove it, you’ll have to pay for an in-app purchase, as you will for some premium features.

App: Health-PIE

App: Letterboxd

For someone who falls sick often, keeping track of your new medicines and making sure you have them on time can be a problem. Whether it’s a chronic illness where you need to have the same medicines daily or you’re on a new schedule of pills once a month, it can be very hard to keep track. That’s where the Health-PIE app comes in.

When you start using it, Health-PIE asks you to set up your reminders, and you can do this either by uploading a scanned image of your prescription, or snapping a picture of it.

You can then set up reminders based on the prescription, so that you get a notification every time you need to have a pill. In the app, you can look at the different records and the different reminders you have set up.

Letterboxd is a social network for film lovers. If you consider yourself a big fan of movies and want to socialise with other like-minded individuals, then this app is the place for you. It allows users to keep track of what they’ve seen, what they want to see, and what others think of certain titles.

Features include a search tab that lets you find films, reviews, lists and people by keywords, or you can browse through movies by what is considered most popular, highest rated, most anticipated or opening soon.

76 February 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

entertainmentmusic

Outrageous Cherry – Meet You in the Shadows What’s the story?

Arriving just over a year after lead guitarist Larry Ray’s death from lung cancer in 2017, Meet You in the Shadows harks back to Outrageous Cherry’s early days and reflects where they are more than 20 years later.

Worth a listen?

The stripped-down production lends a ghostly feel to the album’s expertly crafted fuzz-pop, even though the stomping floor tom and snare beat that drives Meet You in the Shadows feels just as insistent as it did when it propelled the band’s debut single, Pale Frail Lovely One, a quartercentury earlier. This is a concise, consistent set of songs united around a loose theme. In Outrageous Cherry’s world, the shadows are a place to hide, but they’re also a place to connect. The album provides plenty of other reminders that Ray’s leads were just as eloquent as Matthew Smith’s voice and words, whether it’s his wild flights of fancy on Lies Feel Good or the way he closes the album by sending it into the stratosphere on Gotta Get Back Inside Your Mind. From start to finish, the album radiates the joy and warmth that always defined Outrageous Cherry’s music.

Verdict: A tremendous album born from tragedy.

Shorts

Cold War Kids – This Will All Blow Over in Time As it gathers highlights from the five albums, This Will All Blow Over in Time traces the band’s evolution. In retrospect, it’s easy to hear how Cold War Kids channelled the passion of their beginnings into stadiumready rock. Even their earliest songs, such as the three tracks from their 2006 debut album Robbers & Cowards that appear here (Hang Me Up to Dry, Hospital Beds and We Used to Vacation), boast the striding melodies and easy confidence that they blew up to epic proportions on Miracle Mile a few albums later. The collection gives equal time to gritty tracks, slinky grooves and soulful pop. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gudrun Gut – Moment On her third solo album, Gudrun Gut explores darker, more direct territory.

Moment’s stark atmospheres and penetrating synths evoke the coldwave and early industrial music of the ‘80s as well as trends in late-2010s electronic music.

Moment reflects Gut’s artful restraint even at its most propulsive, and the minimalist approach puts the focus on Gut’s vocals, which are more compelling than ever.

Moment becomes more experimental as it unfolds, some tracks are as abstract as anything on Gut’s previous albums.

Carolyn Sampson - Abbandonata: Handel Italian Cantatas British soprano Carolyn Sampson has long been known as a fine Handel specialist, and anticipation has awaited her recordings of the composer’s early Italian cantatas, written in Rome at the end of the 1700s. It’s everything that could be desired, and then some. The cantatas had some connection with a shortlived ban on opera in the Papal States, and plenty of muscular singers, female and male, have recorded them as little operatic scenes.

Yet that is not quite what they are: they were written for aristocratic homes, not opera houses, and they were chamber music, not opera. Sampson captures this vibe perfectly.

February 2019 77

entertainmenttvreleases

Fancy some chill-time at home? Check out these latest TV series to hit your screens.

Watership Down

Set in southern England, the story features a small group of rabbits. Although they live in their natural environment, they are anthropomorphised, possessing their own culture, language, proverbs, poetry and mythology. The rabbits escape the destruction of their warren and seek a place to establish a new home, encountering perils and temptations along the way. Based on the 1972 book by Richard Adams.

Eighth Grade

Eighth Grade is comedian Bo Burnham’s directorial debut, a warm and deeply humane portrait of Kayla, a girl in her final week of classes before graduating from eighth grade.

Aesthetically modern but emotionally timeless, Kayla uses Snapchat and uploads videos to YouTube but struggles with the same perilous feelings we all did, of alienation, anxiety, and the fear that comes with knowing that your life is likely to change completely on a daily basis.

78 February 2019

A Series of Unfortunate Events, Season 3

Following the mysterious death of their parents, the Baudelaire children have literally been through it all – and at the hands of their disturbed, distant relative Count Olaf who is more interested in their inheritance than their wellbeing. Now, as the witty, stylish young adult series concludes, covering the final books in the series from Lemony Snicket, Klaus, Violet and Sunny continue to uncover the truth behind their parents’ past and disappearance and the devilish VFD, while devising a plan to put a stop to Count Olaf to ensure their family’s safety.

Leave No Trace

Directed and co-written by Debra Granik, Leave No Trace follows a man named Will and his daughter who live in isolation deep in the woods of Oregon’s public lands, avoiding civilisation for all but the occasional supply run. However, their life is upended when they’re spotted by a runner and reported to social services, and Will is evaluated and forced to live in a home and work a job in order to keep his daughter.

Black Mirror: Bandersnatch

In 1984, Stefan is developing a computer game based on the book Bandersnatch, a novel where you get to make choices and this determines the story. He has an opportunity to take his game to Tuckersoft, a software company, and have them release it.

However, the more he works on the game the more his life emulates the game, with choices being made that are out of his control. In this interactive experience, viewers can make Stefan’s choices for him using their remote control.

Beautiful Boy

Based on the memoirs by father and son David and Nic Sheff, Beautiful Boy follows one father’s reckoning with his teenage son’s struggle with drug addiction. Chronicling their powerful relationship and the darkest moments of Nic’s path towards recovery, Steve Carell and Timothée Chalamet give stellar performances, pointedly illustrating the challenges those affected by addiction and their loved ones face when coming to terms with the illness, never falling into the trope of romanticising its plight.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Movie Mania

entertainmentfilmreleases

Valentine’s is fast approaching. If you’re not heading out on a date with your significant other, how about a night snuggled up together on the sofa with some of BTM’s favourite romantic movies. Some of our picks may surprise, they’re certainly old but gold. Give them a try.

Letter to Brezhnev

Green Card

The Truth About Cats and Dogs

10 Things I Hate About You

What Women Want

My Big Fat Greek Wedding

Genre: Comedy, drama, romance Release Date: 1985 Set in the days before the collapse of the Soviet Union, this is a bittersweet tale of its time with outstanding performances from Margi Clarke, as Teresa, and Alexandra Pigg, as Elaine. Two Soviet sailors, Peter and Sergei, go ashore in Liverpool to spend one night on the town. They meet the girls and Elaine and Peter immediately fall in love, but the men must leave with the ship. Elaine can’t forget Peter and writes a letter to Soviet General Secretary Leonid Brezhnev, asking him to make it possible for them to reunite. By the way, they ended up together in real life.

Genre: Teen comedy, romance Release Date: 1999 The Hollywood breakout for the late Heath Ledger, this is a teen angsty, loose reimagining of Shakespeare’s The Taming of The Shrew. Boy moves to new town, meets girl, falls in love. Girl’s dad is difficult and won’t let her date unless her big sis does too. Enter bad boy Patrick (Ledger) who is tasked with winning over the shrewish older sister. All seems to be going well until she learns she’s been set up but, in true romantic style, teen love saves the day.

A really believable performance from Heath Ledger in the movie that also introduced Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Larisa Oleynik.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Genre: Romantic comedy Release Date: 1990 Set in the days when illegal US immigration and marriages of convenience were still a laughing matter, Frenchman Georges Fauré (Gérard Depardieu) marries Brontë Parrish (Andie MacDowell) in a bid to get a Green Card. The pair are cliché extreme opposites who are forced to live together when immigration agents come calling to check their story. Hilarity ensues and, of course, love develops but the course of true love is, as ever, not smooth. The pair are rumbled. Watch to the end for the final “Ahhh” moment.

Genre: Romantic fantasy comedy Release Date: 2000 Nick (Mel Gibson) is a sleazy, chauvinistic advertising executive who, following a freak accident, gains the ability to hear women’s thoughts. He initially uses it to outdo his female work rival but eventually starts to make amends to the women in his life. He builds a relationship with his daughter and, you guessed it, falls for that same rival before a big storm wipes out his new superpower and he has to go back to trying to be a decent person but with some very important new knowledge.

Genre: Romantic comedy Release Date: 1996 It’s not a cat and dog romance but it does feature a fabulous large canine…in roller skates! A case of mistaken identity leads Brian (Ben Chaplin) to assume the gorgeous Noelle (Uma Thurman) is the radio host vet he has clicked with over the phone. The voice of his dreams is actually the shorter, rounder but no less attractive Dr Abby (Janeane Garofalo).

Abby, who is somewhat lacking in confidence, persuades Noelle to take her place on dates, while she continues to woo Brian over the phone. The truth, of course, must eventually come out.

Genre: Romantic comedy Release Date: 2002 A sneaky hit that never made number one at the box office but became one of the highest grossing romantic comedies of all time. It’s the story of Fotoula “Toula” Portokalos, a middleclass, Greek-American woman, from a conservative family, who falls in love with nonGreek, upper-middle-class, White Anglo-Saxon Protestant Ian Miller. Toula wants to break out of the traditional female role. She updates her look, changes her job and gains confidence, before secretly getting together with Ian. The fun really starts when the romance goes public and the wedding planning gets underway.

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lifestylewhat'snew

What’s New Vintage Curves Vintage Web from Gucci is inspired by an archival piece from the 1970s.

Playful and colorful, the latest additions to the line feature a distinctive round resin case, a coordinating resin bangle, and a transparent white mother of pearl dial. Available in two colorways – green and red, or cream, red, and blue – the watches represent a strong statement of style.

Available at Gucci.

Reclaiming Le Pliage Longchamp presents a new frame which takes inspiration from the brand’s iconic Le Pliage bag, first created by Philippe Cassegrain in 1993.

The on-trend round silhouette has an ultra-modern, double-metal bridge which is embellished with a gleaming metallic profile around the lenses and finished with an elegant metal plaque on each of the end pieces.

The new style is offered in a colour palette which includes Marble Black, Chocolate, Vintage Havana and Blue. Each of the variations features the Longchamp logo positioned on both temples as a recognisable sign of refined distinction.

Available at www.longchamp.com

Fun Slides Le coq sportif’s spring-summer collection once again demonstrates the French brand’s knowhow and high-end quality products.

With the symbol of a rooster announcing the dawn of a new day, the brand conveys positive and universal values: every day, a new victory is possible! And, it’s proud sporting heritage is evident throughout the new line which includes these fun slides, ideal for the pool or the changing room.

Available at leading sports retailers.

See the Sign Carolina Herrera’s spring-summer collection is inspired by the women of New York, past and present. The Ella Insignia bag displays geometric lines and a combination of elegance and functionality, perfectly adapting itself to casual outfits.

The rest of the collection features bold yellow accents, inspired by the famous New York cabs and reinterpreted in different two-tone geometric prints.

There are also polka dots, stripes and touches of classic camel.

Available at Carolina Herrera.

80 February 2019

A Stylish Shave Barbiere Acqua di Parma is the quintessence of shaving Italian style. It is a modern interpretation of a long tradition. The after shave is a smooth, superlight, rapidly-absorbed emulsion, to soothe and hydrate the skin after shaving. The hydrating effect gives immediate relief from razor burns, leaving the skin agreeably refreshed. Hyaluronic acid restores the skin‘s natural defenses. The formula, offering a matte effect, is enriched with protective and soothing plant oils. As well as the elegant 100ml bottle, a practical 75ml travel tube is available.

Available at leading retailers. www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylediscoverbahrain

AN INTELLECTUAL PURSUIT A spotlight on the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre for Culture and Research, a gem in the heart of Muharraq.

Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa was an early 20th century intellectual and a leader in the fields of education, culture and the social sciences.

Back in those days, Muharraq was the capital of Bahrain and the seat of government with major developmental projects being planned there. It was there too that Shaikh Ebrahim had his majlis, from which he conducted weekly debates and corresponded with recognised personalities from around the world in the fields of culture, arts and philosophy.

Established in his memory, and built on the original site of the first council, the Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture and Research sets out to promote dialogue in the areas close to its namesake’s heart.

It is a gorgeous building, found in Old Muharraq and built in traditional Bahraini style – understated and elegant – with intricate, wooden mashrabiya screening forming a doorway which is both welcoming and slightly intimidating.

Inside you will find a vast open hallway, a place of gleaming wooden floors and white walls adorned with the images of notable figures from history and today, each with its own story to tell.

Mount an open staircase to the centre’s library which houses a collection of books on literature, poetry, history, philosophy and the social sciences. There are many valuable old tomes and it is planned to transfer and fully index the books at the SEARCH Research Library, next to the centre.

There is also a wealth of original documents and paraphernalia belonging Shaikh Ebrahim as well as his copy of the Holy Qur’an, his shotgun, visiting cards and copies of his correspondence and that of his contemporaries.

A highlight of the Shaikh Ebrahim www.bahrainthismonth.com

centre is a large, interactive digital book titled The Future Comes From Far which explores the history and culture of Bahrain. Designed by architects Agence Moatti et Riviere and film directors Anne Jaffrennon and Marie Cuisset of OneTwo, all from Paris, France, the book is designed so that just a wave of the hand takes you into Bahrain’s remarkable story.

Since the opening in 2002, the centre has hosted more than 400 interesting speakers in its weekly lecture programme as well as through special events such as recitals and exhibitions.

In fact, its popularity led to the construction of a large, beautifully designed auditorium.

As the demand for cultural spaces has grown, the centre has expanded and has been instrumental in the restoration of many neighbouring traditional houses which showcase numerous aspects of Bahrain’s history such as the Mohammed bin Fares House of Sound Art, which hosts regular musical performances.

The Shaikh Ebrahim Centre is at the head of Bahrain’s UNESCO listed Pearling Trail and is operational daily from 8am-1pm and from 4pm-7pm.

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February 2019 81

lifestyleoutandabout With the Annual Fine Arts Exhibition fast approaching, our thoughts turn to all things creative and BTM has rounded up a few of the more off-the-beaten-track places to see some wonderful artworks.

GO GO

GALLERIES

Mashq Art Space Hidden away in a small square off the Budaiya Highway, you could be forgiven for not even knowing this place exists. But it really is worth a visit for interesting exhibitions, a lovely, light, rustic-style space and lots of community activities, gatherings and classes etc. Open daily 9.30am-1pm and 3.30pm-11.30pm.

Call 35 572-847.

Ella Art Gallery Ella Prakash is the director and founder of Ella Art Gallery where she displays her own pieces – paintings in acrylic and mixed media. She is well-known for her feminine, figurative, modern and contemporary art and has exhibited internationally most recently in London and Singapore. Last year she launched Ella Impressions, featuring her work on gorgeous fashion accessory pieces. Found in Adliya’s Block 327, the gallery is open SaturdayThursday, 9.30am-1pm and 3.30pm-8pm. and you may well find Ella there when you visit.

Call 17 292-815.

Harbour Gate Right in the heart of the commercial centre that is Bahrain Financial Harbour is a great art space where you’ll find regular exhibitions and events. From visiting international artists, to local groups such as RIA Centre producing student artworks and more.

There are often live painting and creation sessions with exhibiting artists too, so keep your eyes open for news of those.

Visit bfharbour.com

Plus 973 Artisanat Gallery A unique touristic artisanal destination, offering a wide variety of Bahraini-made products by independent craftspeople under the theme “Hand Made with Love”.

The aim is to encourage national entrepreneurs and empower them by developing their creativity and innovation through offering a positive venue to increase their visibility and allow the public access to purchase and interact with the design and art community.

There are regular showing opportunities and you can always find lovely pieces from jewellery to fashions.

It’s on the side of the Al Fatih Highway – you’ll know it by the painted camels outside – and is open Saturday to Thursday, 10am-10pm.

Call 17 000-269.

Akkas Gallery Operated under the theme ‘Visualize ... Create ...

Inspire’ Akkas Gallery is a creative art space providing a variety of services including art exhibitions, photography, design and workshops. It also just recently held a charity art sale, organised by the Saar Charity Fund, and, in November, staged an expo of emerging artists, giving much-needed exposure to up and coming talents. The space is also a cultural spot with a private collection of books exceeding 10,000 titles!

Visit akkasgallery.com

If you’re still on the hunt for more art, check out Fakhrawi Frames in Zinj, where you’ll often find owner Mahmoud painting and chatting over a cuppa. The Bin Matar House in Muharraq is one of the Kingdom’s best-known art venues. Bahrain Art Society has regular shows at its premises near Burgerland Roundabout. Naqsh Gallery in Seef Mall has some beautiful high-end pieces. And, of course, you cannot miss La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art, which has regular exhibitions in an absolutely gorgeous setting.

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lifestyleinterview

A Photographic Mission

Khaled – Kal – Matahen

Born in Jordan to Palestinian parents, Khaled – Kal – Matahen started dabbling with art in middle school, first with painting and drawing before he moved onto photography at age 11. It was then that he purchased his first camera, a half-frame Olympus Pen EE. He studied engineering in the US and went on to serve in the US Air Force for 13 years. Now in Bahrain with NCIS, he is exhibiting at InTouch Clinic in Janabiyah until the end of February. He shares some insights into his work.

Your bio mentions that you first began experimenting with photography at the age of 11. Can you remember what it was that drew you to this medium at such a young age and the things you were picturing back then?

Since I can remember, I was fascinated with cameras. I remember my dad buying me a really cheap plastic camera during the Eid holiday when I was only seven. I used to make cameras using shoe box-like cubes making a hole on one side and white paper on the opposite side, on the inside of the box. But my first real camera was bought out of my own money because I worked the summer at my uncle’s business.

My first pay was spent on a camera.

loved the old way of taking and developing pictures. I enjoyed being in the dark room printing my own shots. I still remember the smell of the chemicals of the dark room, great memories. The old way was more exciting, preparing for the perfect shot then the long wait to see the results.

You are a self-taught photographer, did you find it a long process of experimentation?

The process of teaching myself was painless. I didn’t learn overnight. I remember experimenting always on how to take a certain picture with a different lighting situation. It was a long and slow process but I enjoyed every minute of it.

What can visitors expect of your current exhibition at InTouch and is there anywhere else people can see your work?

I hope that visitors will be exposed to a different kind of shooting, the HDR style. I fell in love with it 15 years ago and I got hooked. I’ve done a couple of small exhibits in the past and I sold some photos.

I always show my shots to by best fans, my closest circle of friends.

Do you still use film as well as digital?

I still have film in the fridge but I haven’t used it in a while.

If you use digital, how have you found the transition?

I do use digital now. The transition was painful. I resisted crossing over because I www.bahrainthismonth.com

You also work in paint. Do you ever paint and photograph the same subjects and, if yes, how does the process differ (staging and eventual result)?

I used to be a better portrait painter when I was a lot younger. Then I figured I can do portraits through my lens. I switched to abstract painting about 25-27 years ago. I haven’t drawn faces or people in decades.

Are you ever inspired by things you come across in your work with NCIS? Well, the travel I do sometimes for work is very interesting and often is to a different world than the one I’m used to.

Different countries with different traditions and colours.

February 2019 83

lifestyletravel Clockwise from left: Garni Temple; Lake Sevan; Yeravan is famed for its pink buildings; The haunting Genocide Memorial; Lavash restaurant; Vernissage market.

84 February 2019

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lifestyletravel

Armenia It’s that time of year when, if you’re anything like us, you start to think about holidays. This is the first in a series where we’ve looked at some of the latest up-and-coming destinations; so, all you’ve got to do is get packing.

With a decidedly more liberal outlook following last year’s velvet revolution, Armenia – ancestral home of the Kardashians, in case you care – has made its way onto the travellistas’ map for 2019.

A former Soviet republic found in the mountainous Caucasus region between Asia and Europe, Armenia is rich in history and great, unspoiled scenery.

It’s defined by religious sites including the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni and fourth-century Etchmiadzin Cathedral, headquarters of the Armenian Church. Khor Virap Monastery is a pilgrimage site near Mount Ararat.

The capital, Yerevan, is known as the “Pink City” due to the beautiful volcanic rock that makes up much of the traditional architecture. While you’re there, don’t miss highlights such as the Genocide Memorial and the Vernissage Market where you’ll find the gorgeous handmade local dolls, artists hawking their wares and much to delight and take home.

If you’re looking for a taste of home while you’re away, Yaravan abounds with shawarma stalls and some travellers says they’re the best they’ve ever tasted. But also make sure to take in some traditional cuisine in which lamb, eggplant and both fresh and dried fruit figure heavily. The food is said to rely on the freshness and quality of the ingredients rather than lots of spices, and Lavash restaurant comes highly recommended.

Head out of the city to Garni in the Kotayk Province to visit the country’s only remaining Pagan temple, which is still in use today. And pay a visit to the shores of Lake Sevan, the black lake, an enormous expanse of water that covers around five per cent of the country and is the second largest freshwater high-altitude lake in the world.

Also take a view of Mount Ararat, where Noah’s Ark is said to have landed – its base is actually in neighbouring Turkey but the mountain has a very special place in Armenian folklore and history and is absolutely stunning with its snowcapped peak rising through the clouds.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2019 85

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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

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets

Middle East Hospital

Moiz Trading

Ramee Grand

● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

Royal Bahrain Hospital

86 February 2019

Saar Mall

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

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. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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