Bahrain This Month - July 2018

MOTORING | TRAVEL | DOWNTIME

Since 1997

July 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 7

DESTINATION JUFFAIR

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

Exploring the Locale

HAPPENINGS

Summer Festival 20 + Kids’ Camps

INTERVIEWS Shaikha Mai World Heritage Committee Exclusive!

Mel Betley Leading with Passion Preeti Rana Poet and Artist

FRANCE IN BAHRAIN

A Special Supplement

www.bahrainthismonth.com Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

Digital Edition

Issue 251

Contents July 2018 HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of July 2018: 16-17

Summer Festival

BTM rounds up the fun family events of the 10th edition of the Bahrain Summer Festival.

19

16

A Family Affair

An exhibition by Bahrain-based snapper Jody Peck.

21

Poolside Fun

A pool and beach party brunch to mark US Independence Day. 23 Wet

and Wild

A DJ party featuring afrobeats, reggaetón, Arabic, hip-hop, R&B and more.

24-25 Summer

Camps

BTM’s big round-up of ways to keep kids occupied throughout the long school holidays.

23

25

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

INTERVIEWS 28-29

Heritage Hero

Shaikha Mai speaks exclusively to BTM about the importance of heritage.

30

Leading with Passion

HSBC Bahrain CEO Melika Betley gives a sneak peek into her world of banking.

28

31

31

Plaque of Pride

33

New Beginnings

Lieutenant Javan Rasnake of the US Navy talks about his recent accolade.

BUB vice president Professor Keith Sharp shares plans for the new university.

34

Her Musical Muse

Preeti Rana shares the inspiration behind her solo art exhibition in London this summer.

44

51 Bystander This issue’s Bystander pages are jampacked with major happenings on the island such as Eid events celebrated by various embassies and important majlises, among others. Our snappers were also seen at various other gatherings, including Ramadan Ghabgas and hotel Iftars. Check them out to see if you made the cut!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

FEATURE 35-45

France in Bahrain

A special supplement celebrating Bahraini-French relations including French businesses, trade and travel.

Motoring 47

My Life in Cars

Dick Potter shares his passion for motors.

48

The All-Rounder

Explore the JAC Motors Sunray multi-van.

50-52 Motoring

Bites

BTM brings you the latest news from the motoring world.

July 2018 5

Issue 251

Contents July 2018 FEATURE Destination Juffair

54-61

An in-depth look at dining, retail and businesses in one of the Kingdom’s most popular locales.

54

Dining

62

Upscale Drink and Dine

Behnaz Sanjana reviews the contemporary cuisine at LNT Gastropub.

65

Frosty Delights

Stay cool with Maki restaurant’s exquisite summer thirst quenchers.

66

American Taste, Irish Hospitality

Bennigan’s offers great value and plenty of promos at both of its popular restaurants.

67

Game-Time Treats

Talabat offers a great way to satisfy your taste buds while enjoying high-energy matches.

68

62

67

Super Summer Deals

Beat the heat with summer promotions from Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. 70

Hidden Gems in Bahrain 71-73 Table Hopping

Dining gossip from around the island.

Showcase

74-75 Marketplace: Latest products and services.

76-78

Business Bites

LIFESTYLE

80-81

What’s New: Must-have products

Downtime

82-83 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town

84 Music: Top tunes Games: The hot games of the month 86 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 87 Apps: Essential apps 88 Movies: New releases

85 Computer

72

90

Travel

90-91 Cruising

into the 21st Century It Again

92-93 Play

Regulars

96 Tarotscope 97

80

AD Index WIN

98 WIN

85

Connect with Bahrain This Month:

83 www.bahrainthismonth.com

81

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

July 2018 7

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Discover a whole range of MyCLUB benefits

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THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month July 2018

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

Phew, it’s a scorcher! Well, summer is here and, like every year, it feels like the hottest one ever. And, of course, summer means schools are out and, for families who are staying on the island for all, or part, of the long break, the challenge is on to keep the kids amused. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In our Happenings section you’ll find details of more than 20 great summer camps for kids, from tots to teens, offering activities from fitness fun and specialised sports to space exploration and robotics – almost makes me want to be a kid again!

If that’s not enough, it’s also time for the annual Bahrain Summer Festival. This year’s expanded event sees a two-month-long schedule including stage shows, workshops, field trips and more. In fact, there’s so much to see, do and learn that we couldn’t fit it all in. Check-out the Happenings pages for highlights and visit www.bahrainthismonth.com, where the full 51-page (yes 51 pages!) programme is available.

July brings with it French National Day, which is always marked in style. Our France in Bahrain supplement takes a look at commercial relations between the two nations. And, since the theme for this year’s celebration is Marianne, the symbol of the republic, we’re highlighting some of the French ladies who are very much part of their community in the Kingdom.

Our interview section this month includes an exclusive chat with HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa. She was instrumental in bringing the prestigious 42nd World Heritage Committee meeting to Bahrain and explains why she feels passionate about heritage protection.

We’ve also spoken with artist Preeti Rana, who let us in on preparations for an important show in London; Mel Betley, the woman at the helm of HSBC in Bahrain; Professor Keith Sharp, who outlined his plans for the new British University of Bahrain; and US naval officer Lt Javan Rasnake on his recent international recognition.

Our special feature this month focuses on Juffair, a vibrant area full of dining and retail options. Make sure to take a look if you’re planning a visit.

We have our usual round-ups of news from the worlds of business and motoring and, with holidays in mind, our lifestyle section features a double dose of travel to help you choose your destination.

However you’re spending the summer, stay cool and keep Bahrain This Month close to hand.

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

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

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

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

Published monthly by

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

•

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

COVER Cover Picture:

Summer Camps

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

MOTORING | TRAVEL | DOWNTIME

Since 1997

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

July 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 7

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

DESTINATION JUFFAIR

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

Exploring the Locale

HAPPENINGS

Summer Festival 20 + Kids’ Camps

INTERVIEWS Shaikha Mai World Heritage Committee Exclusive!

Mel Betley Leading with Passion Preeti Rana Poet and Artist

FRANCE IN BAHRAIN

A Special Supplement

www.bahrainthismonth.com Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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

Digital Edition

Nightlife

July 2018 9

bystander

HE Vagif Garaev

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Perwin, HE Alfred Simms-Protz & HE Hideki Ito

Ramadan Ghabga HE Dr Dhafer and Dr Jihan Alumran hosted a Ramadan Ghabga dinner at The Gulf Hotel.

Dr Jihan & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran

HE Dr Bahia & Dr Jihan

Hatem & Hassana

HE Dr Mohamed Al Khozai

Mary & HE Dr Milad Nammour

Arnavaz & HE Justin Siberell

Sophie & HE Simon Martin

Fawzia & HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi

Monk Punyawi & Sushil

Hoda & Dr Derek

This is Bahrain Ghabga The annual Ramadan Ghabga of ‘This is Bahrain’ took place at Sacred Heart Church.

Shaikh Faisal bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Betsy & Vijay Kumar

Fr Xavier, Sr Nimalapriya & Sr Marie Lily

Rose, Betsy, Hanan & Naima

10 July 2018

Nabeel

HE Alfonso A Ver

Betsy, Shaikh Faisal & HE Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Al Rashid Group Ghabga

Al Rashid Group hosted a Ghabga at The Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Joel, Harmeet, Shumalan, Kaizad & Kunal

Ruwaid, Sawsan & Sara

Behnaz & Kaizad

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Huda, Ali & Aisha

Talal, Said, Safia & Alesia

Jood & Joory

Preetha, Leeann & Vaidehi

Hafid, Ahmed & Mustafa

Duaa & Nadya

July 2018 11

bystander

Caroline & Rafael

HE Alfonso A Ver

Hussain Dawani

Embassy Eid Gathering HE Agus Salim bin Yusof, Malaysian Ambassador, and wife Wani, hosted a gathering to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr.

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof, Edry & Wani

Kosta & Anna

HE Thanis Na Songkhla

Waleed Al Rayes

Ratnani, Wani & HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo

Mehamooda

HE Koo Hyunmo, Jina & Wani

Tawfeeq Almoayed

Raja Almoayed

Amor & JP

Embassy Eid Open House The Charge d’Affaires of the Brunei Embassy, HE Nor Huda, hosted an Eid al-Fitr Open House.

Majidah, HE Nor Huda, Haji Musle & Haji

Refa, Eyad, Ahmed, Azam & Basma

HE Alok Kumar Sinha & HE Alfonso A Ver

Ashir, Ashraf, Mumthas & Afrah

12 July 2018

Caroline

Hardi & Wita

Wani

Pat

Essam, Ali, Daniah & Eman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran & Amin El Sharkawi

HE Rami Al Adwan, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran & HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir

Retirement Ceremony A ceremony was held by the diplomatic court of Bahrain to honour HE Dr Dhafer Alumran on his retirement.

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran & HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir

HE Kadri Al Sayeh, Amin El Sharkawi, HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir, HE Koo Hyunmo, HE Rami Al Adwan & HE Vagif Garaev

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran with the diplomatic corps

HE Justin Siberell, HE Kadri Al Sayeh, HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi, HE Mohammed bin Yousif, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir, HE Rami Al Adwan & HE Fawzi Al Tahir Abdul’ali

HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Simon Martin, HE Rami Al Adwan, & HE Ibrahim Elhassan

HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Dr Ali Ahmadi & HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Abdulla bin Rashid Al Mudailwi & HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir

HE Kadri Al Sayeh, HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi, HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran, HE Justin Siberell, HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir & HE Rami Al Adwan

Jean Philippe, HE Domenico Bellato, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Kadri Al Sayeh, HE Rami Al Adwan & HE Padam Sundas

July 2018 13

bystander

Fuad Al Mutawa, Bashar Al Mutawa & Nayef Al Mutawa

HE Shaikh Mohammed bin Ebrahim Al Mutawa Majlis Nasser Al Mutawa, HE Shaikh Mohammed bin Ebrahim Al Mutawa & Sami

Abdul Hakim & Dr Shakhir

Hisham Al Mutawa

Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa Majlis Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & Jalil Al Ansari

Dr Abdul Kharim, Salman, Salah & Sadiq

Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Khalifa Majlis Shaikh Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Shaikh Mohammed Al Khalifa & Shaikh Amin

Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa

Shaikh Mohammed Abdulrahman Al Khalifa

Waleed Kanoo

Nass Majlis Ahmed Al Khaja, Abdulla Sami Nass, Abdulla Al Khaja & Turki Al Ahmed

Sameer Nass, Ghazi Nass & Bashar Nass

14 July 2018

Jamal Nass, Bashar Nass, Sameer Nass & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

Ayman Al Gayer & Adel Nass

Waheeb Al Khaja

Farooq Almoayyed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sondos & Emeline

Reem, Reem & Mirna

US Embassy Youth Iftar HE Justin Siberell, US Ambassador, and wife Arnavaz hosted an Iftar for young Bahraini cultural exchange participants at Downtown Rotana.

HE Justin Siberell & Nawaf

Diana & Safa

Masooma & Samantha Hanan & Aimee

Scott & Faisal Juma

Esra, Arnavaz, Sarah, Maram & Wasan

Karl, Richard & Tim

Ruba

Mary & HE Dr Milad Nammour

Embassy Reception HE Hideki Ito, Japanese Ambassador, hosted a reception to celebrate the completion of CTF151’s mission, under the command of Rear Admiral Daisuke Kajimoto, Japan Maritime Self Defense Force.

HE Hideki Ito & RADM Kajimoto

Mohammed, Scott & Brgdr Noufal Al Dosari

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & Wani

Paul, Krystee & HE Justin Siberell

Jean Philippe & Amin

Rak, Saw & Clarence

July 2018 15

happenings

J U LY 2 0 1 8 - H A P P E N I N G S SUMMER FESTIVAL The 10th edition of the Bahrain Summer Festival is here! Escape the heat and enter into the world of Nakhool Tent, at Arad Fort, which features a two-month-long programme of activities divided into different categories, each of which includes dozens of workshops that cater to every interest and age group – from tots to teens, art to agriculture, and acting to astronomy. The festival also features a number of cultural shows organised in collaboration with local foreign embassies.

MAIN EVENTS PUPPET ON A STRING

TRICKS OF THE TRADE

JULY 3/4/10/11/17 /18/24/25/31

JULY 5/12/19/26

PUPPET SHOW

Events Tent, Arad Fort

JULY 6

MUSICIANS WITHOUT BORDERS

Events Tent, Arad Fort

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

Suitable for five years and above.

7pm. Free.

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

Suitable for five years and above.

7pm. Free. Arabic.

INTERNATIONAL SOUNDS

MAGIC SHOW

LAWFUL MUSIC Events Tent, Arad Fort

JULY 7/14/21/28

BAHRAIN POLICE BAND

Events Tent, Arad Fort

The Bahrain Police Music Band presents a variety of musical shows that blend military and authentic traditional Bahraini music.

Suitable for five years and above.

8.15pm. Free. Arabic.

Music of Peace is a project that speaks to audiences through a universal language that transcends borders, comprised of seven musicians from different countries, languages and cultures unified by the language of love and peace, the language of music., Suitable for five years and above.

8.15pm. Free.

MALAYSIAN MOVES JULY 25-27

ZAPIN DANCE

Events Tent, Arad Fort

ARABIAN FOLKLORE JULY 19

MAQAMAT BADI’ AL-ZAMAN AL-HAMATHANI

Cultural Hall

Theatrical vignettes that organically and seamlessly blend various art forms with comedic situations inspired by Arabian folklore and characters such as Abu AlFateh Al-Iskandari, Issa bin Hisham and others.

Suitable for 10 years and above.

8pm. Free. Arabic. Limited space.

16 July 2018

Zapin dance is a variety of Malay dance that used to be performed for the entertainment of royals in their palaces. It was inspired by Arab and Middle Eastern arts which spread across the region in the 13th century thanks to merchants, clerics and artists.

Suitable for five years and above.

8.15pm. Free. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

AFRICAN HERITAGE JULY 30, AUGUST 1 AND 3

SUDANESE FOLKLORE

NOSEY BUSINESS Events Tent, Arad Fort

AUGUST 4

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

Suitable for five years and above.

8.15pm. Free. Arabic.

WORKSHOPS CORNER July 2-7.THEATRE BASICS. 5pm-8pm. Age 8-15 years.

A collaboration between the Salman Cultural Center and Ministry of Youth and Sport Affairs introducing the basics of stage presence and developing non-verbal communication skills.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 2-7. JAPANESE HANGA. 5pm-8pm. Age 12-15 years.

Learn the Japanese art of Hanga (water woodcut print) and using paper and traditional tools to create various illustrations.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 2-7. THE LITTLE TOUR GUIDE: A TRIP TO THE PEARLING PATHWAY. 5pm-8pm. Age 5-15 years.

Instructors Sara Majid and Hussain Ali use an interactive map featuring games and activities highlighting landmarks of Bahrain.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 9-14. EXPLORATION, LITTLE RENOVATOR PROGRAMME. 5pm-8pm. Age 8-15 years.

In collaboration with Bahrain National Museum, a journey of exploration where the child learns to explore historical artefacts and how to preserve them; includes trips to archaeological sites.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 9-14. MORSE CODE. 5pm-8pm. Age 8-15 years.

Instructors Ahmed Hisham and Eman Huwaida teach kids more about the electrical circuit through designing a Morse code device that encrypts and sends messages using sound codes.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 11-12. I’M MALALA WORKSHOP. CHILDREN’S CULTURAL CORNER. 8pm-11pm.

Age 8-11 years.

Instructor Alia Hussein in collaboration with www.bahrainthismonth.com

PINOCCHIO

Events Tent, Arad Fort

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

Suitable for five years and above.

7pm. Free. English.

Events Tent, Arad Fort Hekaya teaching about the importance of learning and passion for knowledge, as exemplified by the story of Malala Yousafzai.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 16-18. NAKHOOL CHARACTER IN POP ART STYLE. 5pm-8pm. Age 5-15 years.

Marwa Jameel teaches kids how to create pop art-style artworks that bear Nakhool’s image, from assembling the elements to coloring them, then using them to make one giant image of Nakhool.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 16-21. YOUNG ENGINEER WORKSHOP. 5pm-8pm. Age 8-15 years.

Instructors Ahmed Hisham and Eman Huwaida present sessions in which the participants design engineering structures and bridges by using tools and a simple engineering background, which they gain through the workshop. At the end, the participants challenge each other on which structure has the most durability.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 21. BOOK SIGNING: A TRIP TO ZOOMBA. CHILDREN’S CULTURAL CORNER. 7pm. Ag: 5-15 years.

Manners are important to have in Zoomba.

Join the narrator on his trip to Zoombaland, where he has to learn his manners all over again alongside the Woo, Ted and all Zoombians who are, strangely, quiet girls and guys.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 23-25. EBRU MARBLING. 5pm-8pm. Age 8-15 years.

Instructor Mohamed Sultan, from Turkey, in collaboration with the Turkish Embassy and Yunus Emre Enstitusu, teaches the art of marbling on paper, or ‘ebru’ in Turkish, a traditional decorative form employing special methods whereby paint patterns are

transferred onto paper or any other hard material.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 23-28. SPACE ADVENTURES. 5pm-8pm. Age 8-15 years.

Ahmed Hisham and Eman Huwaida ask “Who doesn’t want to explore outer space and astronomical phenomena?” In this workshop kids will learn more about the mysteries of the cosmos and their underlying scientific concepts through simple experiments.

--------------------------------------------------------------------July 26-28. BEZ BEBEK RAG DOLL WORKSHOP. 5pm-8pm. Age 12-15 years.

In a second collaboration, Mohamed Sultan teaches about the traditional cloth dolls which have existed throughout human history and are versatile, as they can be used for fun, leisure, distraction, training, thinking and creativity for better child development.

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

17 July 2017

bystander

Ajoor Majlis Nabeel Ajoor hosted a Ramadan Majlis.

Nabeel Ajoor and guests with Sushil Muljimal

Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman, Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman, Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed, Zoher Tawfeeqi & Ahmed

HE Simon Martin, Shaikh Mohamed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa & Mockbul Ali

Khalid bin Hindi, Nabeel Ajoor, HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo, HE Alfonso A Ver, Karim Al Shaqer, Darwish Al Mannai & Ahmed Ajoor

Joy of Giving Lulu Hypermarket conducted its

Ramadan Joy of Giving community activity at Bab Al Bahrain.

Ahmed Saloom & Sameer Nass

To view more images, scan the QR code

Juzer, Kaleem, Sajith, Shukoor & Ravi

Shikha, Nita, Karen & Ann

Campaign Launch Lulu Hypermarket held its World Environment Day Campaign Launch at its premises in Dana Mall.

Lulu management and guests

Sami, Juzer, HE Alok Kumar Sinha & Kaleem

18 July 2018

Fareed & Ismail

Vineeth, Nizam & Biju

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

A FAMILY AFFAIR ONGOING TILL AUGUST

FAMILY IN THE MOUNTAINS EXHIBITION

This exhibition by acclaimed Bahrain-based snapper, Jody Peck, presents a photo essay chronicling the daily life of a family of six (three generations), in Pachbaya, Nepal, in 2014. Jody and a friend were out in the mountains when they came across a very steep and unstable-looking road. Exploring this is how he discovered the place he would call home for nearly a month – the small sleepy village of Pachbaya.

The high altitude and location gives the village the most amazing views of the surrounding mountains and lakes and,

InTouch Clinic

deciding to stay, Jody quickly fell into the family’s daily routine and started documenting their life from the grandmother feeding the chicken to the parents getting their kids ready for school and then unlocking their cabinet to sell sweets and crisps to passers-by.

Jody will also be showing a selection of works from various series and types of photographic experimentation. ly except Friday.

Call 17 690-100.

When? Nightly Event? New Bands Venue? Wyndham Garden Manama

Call into Juffair’s newest hotel and check out two new bands.

South American female duo Notre Viú are taking to the stage after World Cup games at Player’s Lounge. And Via Brasil is proud to present a new Cuban duo, First Class, who bring the sounds of the Caribbean to Bahrain.

SEASON CLOSER JULY 5

Call 66 316-666.

CUT PRESENTS THE RED ROOM WITH USIF, MP3 AND NACIM

Aurora teams up with Wolfgang Puck’s CUT to present a group of very talented artists in the season-closing party. Get ready for sounds from Usif, who is one half of the hot duo Zone+ & Usif. They came together after sharing similar ideas about the sound they liked, and soon decided to collaborate,

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

together forming Zone+ & Usif .

Support comes from local favourite DJ Ramy with floor-filler VJMP3 on closing duty. The dress code is smart casual, to match the venue.

Entry is free by guestlist until 11pm and BD10 thereafter.

Call 36 906-900.

AMPLIFIED FEATURING RUIZ SIERRA & FAWAZO

Sbert and many others.

Warming up the night is the best of the DaBasso crew, Bahrain favourite FawazO. He will be dropping magical melodic synth lines and bass-heavy techno. FawazO’s first released track is on Ruiz’s label Egothermia. Music starts 9pm and goes on till the wee hours.

Tickets BD10 in advance, BD15 on the door.

Call 39 442-295.

RICHIO SUZUKI

Richio Suzuki, one of London’s DJ legends, is flying in for a weekend takeover that promises to be an awesome musical party experience.

Richio has been playing out for 35 years. From Ministry of Sound to Top of the Pops, Lovebox, Soul Box, Lattitude and Standing Calling festivals, as well as London’s hottest hotel bars such as St Martin’s Lane, Metropolitan Hotel and the Hoxton Hotel and a long old stint in Ibiza. In recent years, he has been playing funk, soul, disco, 50s and 60s at venues including The Bussey in Peckham, Ronnie Scott’s in Soho and Old Street Records in Shoreditch.

Time from 9pm. Entry free.

Call 17 666-644. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Have fun and raise funds for a great cause with a bowling night at MJ’s.

Maximum five people per lane and the BD15 cost includes two games, a pizza, a drink and popcorn.

Call 37 733-415.

When? July 4, 7.30pm Event? Open Mic Night Venue? Old Street, Adliya

Fancy showing off your musical talents? Then head down to Adliya for this special night in collaboration with Music Vigilantes.

No tickets or reservations but a minimum order of BD3.

Call 17 441-900.

LONDON CALLING JULY 5 AND 6

Learn more about this interesting discipline at the annual retreat which looks at synthesis and energy flow.

When? July 3, 7pm-9pm Event? BSPCA Bowling Night Venue? MJ’s Bowling Lounge

Mercure Grand Hotel

In an update of last month’s advertised club night, the team that brought you Melodika and Native are back with the second edition of Amplified.

The event is the Bahrain debut for Ruiz Sierra all the way from Hungary. As a DJ, he plays a new style of tech-house with atmospheric sounds that combine energetic techno with elements of house.

As a recognised producer, and label founder, he has released tracks on Deeperfect, IAMT, Phunk Traxx and others and has been listed on the Beatport Top 100 charts several times. In 2013, he established Egothermia Records and has worked with several established artists including Alberto Ruiz, Dani

When? July 2-10, daily Event? Touch for Health Kinesiology Retreat Venue? Brain Body Dynamics, Saar

Contact www.facebook.com/ BrainBodyDynamics

HUNGARY MEETS BAHRAIN JULY 5

When? Ongoing till end of August Event? Family in the Mountains Exhibition Venue? InTouch Clinic Call 17 690-100.

Calexico

When? July 4, from 8pm Event? US Independence Day Party Venue? The Exchange Pub

Sing along to American tunes from the in-house band and enjoy special drinks offers and US-style foods.

Call 17 742-000.

When? July 5, from 3pm Event? Summer Madness Pool Festival Venue? Coral Bay

Groundrulez presents local and international DJs for a great summer pool party. Tickets BD12 for ladies, BD15 for men.

Call 38 888-019.

July 2017 19

bystander

Jalil Al Ansari & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

Arun & Chowdhury

Juzer & Jawahari

Raghu & Dr Babu Ram

Tree Planting Ceremony HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Indian Ambassador, held a tree planting ceremony at the new embassy complex to mark World Environment Day 2018.

The tree-planting ceremony

Dr Babu Ram, Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Mohamed Kooheji & Mohammed Dadabhai

Arati, Thanuja, Sarada & Renu

Mövenpick Iftar Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain hosted an Iftar for the media.

Iain, Sumaya, Claire & Pasquale

Shafika, Sumaya, Laila, Victoria & Karim

iyana hosted her farewell Farewell Party Sparty at JJ’s Irish Pub. Ahmed, Siyana & Madan

Qahtan & Ezara

20 July 2018

Siyana, Mona, Teodora, Ezara & Tina

Nasser

Monem

Turki, Luba, Siyana, Said & Madan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

POOLSIDE FUN JULY 6

AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY WEEKENDER

Coral Bay

Miami Events honours its fellow Americans with a massive pool and beach party brunch to mark US Independence Day. Featuring a live barbecue station and unlimited food and selected beverages until 4pm for BD18. The fun carries on right through the evening with local and international DJs playing a mix of tunes that are sure to get the crowd swinging and, possibly, swimming!

Entry is BD5 for ladies, BD10 for men and free for all Americans ,but space is limited, so go early to avoid disappointment.

Call 66 331-261 or 17 312-700.

POP AND SHOP JULY 6-7

POP-UP MARKET

Bahraini designer Lulwa Al Amin, who graduated from London’s prestigious Central St Martins College of Art and Design, will launch her spring-summer 2018 collection at this two-day event showcasing essential seasonal pieces — from dresses, swimsuits, beachwear and bags to hair accessories and much more. Expect to find classic styles in her signature quirky prints which have been featured in some of the fashion world’s biggest publications.

And there’s also a chance to celebrate World Chocolate Day on July 7, with the mall running an interesting social media contest offering a countdown of giveaways from the likes of Godiva and Laderach.

Call 17 581-000.

SOOTHING SOUNDS SINGING BOWL MEDITATION WITH MELANIE SARGINSON

Ki Train Studio

Meditation practitioner Melanie uses crystal bowls and the almost other-worldly sound they produce to lead a class meditation aimed at relaxation and promoting balance, harmony and healing. Melanie studied with an expert in the US, learning the ancient art of playing the Tibetan bowls, which has been used to enhance meditation, intuition, relaxation and bodywork in the Far East for centuries. Nowadays, the technique is used across the globe in in music therapy to promote emotional release. It is sometimes also used alongside traditional medical treatments for spiritual healing and as an alternative to pain medication.

Cost BD10.

Call 36 242-230.

MUSICAL FUSION JULY 12

DABOYWAY AND DJ BUDDHA

DaBoyWay – Prinya ‘Way’ Intachai is a first generation American-Thai who was born in Paterson, New Jersey and spent his childhood in Brooklyn, New York. After graduating high school, Way took what was supposed to be a two-month trip to Bangkok, Thailand to visit family. But, once there, he developed friendships and began writing music, quickly becoming a driving force in the Bangkok music scene. Within two years he had released a successful album and had gained considerable popularity He is a staple on the music scene as a member of the awardwinning group Thaitanium, which is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Asian urban music/hip-hop.

He is joined by DJ Buddha who is part of the evolution which has seen the bridging of street music from different cultures, www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? July 5 Event? Amplified featuring Ruiz Sierra & Fawazo Venue? Mercure Grand Hotel Call 39 442-295.

When? July 5 and 6 Event? Richio Suzuki Venue? Calexico Call 17 666-644.

When? July 6 Event? American Independence Day Weekender Venue? Coral Bay Call 66 331-261 or 17 312-700.

Al Aali Shopping Complex

JULY 10

When? July 5 Event? CUT Presents the Red Room with Usif, MP3 and Nacim Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Call 36 906-900.

Cavallo Club including hiphop, R&B, Jamaican reggae and Latin.

Buddha was associated with team La Favela, in the form of a mixtape and a movement called Caribbean Connection, which delivered a continuous mix of dancehall reggae and reggaetón. He has created hundreds of mixtapes which found critical acclaim for example in The Fader, Rolling Stone and the New York Times.

He also recently released a mix album titled Ultra.Latino which hit number two on iTunes Latin within its first week.

Presale tickets, ladies BD5 and gents BD10.

Call 35 111-181.

When? July 6-7, 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm Event? Nikon Photography Workshop Venue? Bahrain Financial Harbour it’s a lifetime programme, where talent meets technique, passion meets precision and creativity comes to life. This workshop aims to inspire photographers of all levels to explore their skills and take better pictures.

Call 39 164-077.

When? July 6-7 Event? Pop-Up Market Venue? Al Aali Shopping Complex Call 17 581-000.

When? July 9, 7.30pm Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? ERA Tower, Seef (opposite Elite Grande Hotel) Join like-minded people for tips and discussion.

Call 39 574-795.

When? July 10 Event? Singing Bowl Meditation with Melanie Sarginson Venue? Ki Train Studio Call 36 242-230.

When? July 11, 7.30pm Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Venue? Artdivano Gallery Enthusiastic poets get together to hear pieces and discuss works.

Call 39 574-795.

When? July 12 Event? DaBoyWay and DJ Buddha Venue? Cavallo Club Call 35 111-181.

July 2017 21

bystander

Ramadan Iftar Mohammed Ozeir Uddin Khan hosted a Ramadan Iftar at the Salt n’ Pepper restaurant.

Omeir, Kishwar, Sabih & Ozeir

Ebrahim & Sabih

Dua, Basharat & Zainab

Sunelus, Mrs Anwar & Mrs Arsalan

Park Regis Lotus Hotel Iftar The Park Regis Lotus Hotel held a traditional Iftar buffet at its premises.

Omeir, Maria & Ibrahim

Mohammed & Qadir

Basharat & Bilal

Sara & Eman

Afna & Tahira

To view more images, scan the QR code

Jomon, Fadi, Zuher, Manohar & Navin

April, Cheryl & Robin

Nohaila, Hajar & Chaimae

FIFA World Cup 2018 Screening Al Areen Palace & Spa held a live screening of the FIFA World Cup 2018 opening ceremony and football match at its Al Qasr Tent.

Seated: Sami, Sami, Samer & Mahmood Top: Aysha, Gabrielle & Kris

22 July 2018

To view more images, scan the QR code Cristina, Emmylou & Muna

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

WET AND WILD JULY 13

WET REPUBLIC POOL PARTY

ITALIAN DRAMA Coral Bay

JULY 17

MOVIE NIGHT

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

When? July 13 Event? Wet Republic Pool Party Venue? Coral Bay Call 66 331-261 or 17 312700.

When? July 16-19 Event? Running a Business FourDay Workshop Venue? Oasis Training Centre

A comprehensive programme which will take participants through the various skills required to run a business, covering the concept of operating on a commercial basis to achieve success and efficiency.

Bring your flag and proudly represent your country as Miami Events gets ready for another mammoth DJ party featuring afrobeats, reggaeton, Arabic, hip-hop, R&B, Russian sounds and much more.

Kicking off at 3pm with DJ Wisky, bring your bathers and be read to dance until the wee hours with a line-up of local and international DJs including The Chaos, Kelo, Shortman, Santi, Essie De Vall, Niel, Pekaboo all hosted by Khaled from The Dallah Family.

Tickets are BD10 for gents and BD5 for ladies. US military enter free with ID. Call 66 331-261 or 17 312-700.

EURO BEATS JULY 27

VIBES PRESENTS LUCAS & STEVE

Gallery 21

Enjoy a classic 1972 movie, Roma, at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art. Also known as Fellini’s Roma, it’s a semiautobiographical, poetic comedy-drama film depicting director Federico Fellini’s move from his native Rimini to Rome as a youth.

It is an homage to the city, shown in a series of loosely connected episodes set during both Rome’s past and present. The plot is minimal, and the only ‘character’ that develops significantly is Rome herself. Peter Gonzales plays the young Fellini, and the film features mainly unknowns in the cast.

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

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

YOGA CELEBRATION JULY 27, 4PM-6PM

FULL MOON YOGATHON GURU POORNIMA SPECIAL

Call 17 330-823.

When? July 17 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Call 17 230-123, email info@ lafontaineartcentre.net or follow Instagram @lafontainebh When? July 20-21 Event? Groovy Kids Yoga Teacher Training Venue? Namaste

For the first time in Bahrain, the highly acclaimed 15-hour programme that has brought delight and joy to kids across the globe! Learn what works and why, learn a sequence that you can teach repeatedly, and discover how to vary it easily.

Call 17 591-565.

136.1 Yoga Studio Amwaj

When? July 27 Event? Vibes Presents Lucas & Steve Venue? Gallery 21 Call 36 396-333.

When? July 27, 7pm Event? Bollywood Karaoke Venue? Spices, Crowne Plaza

Get ready for a night of banging tunes as the duo who are ranked at world number 64 in the top 100 DJMag list, Lucas & Steve, make their Middle East debut in Bahrain.

Beyond their breathtaking melodies and explosive performances, you’ll find dance music’s closest friendship.

Dutch powerhouse duo Lucas & Steve have seen a momentous rise to stardom in recent years, climbing charts and making their DJMag Top 100 debut at number 64 in 2017. Renowned for their uplifting productions, the MTV Award (2017) nominees have scored consecutive summer hits with Summer On You and, most recently, Up Till Dawn, now attracting over 3 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Lucas & Steve’s infinite energy is best experienced in a crowd, which they’ve proven time after time with acclaimed sets at Tomorrowland’s mainstage, Creamfields, Sziget Festival and continuous tours across Europe, Asia and South America. Support comes from DJ Ramy.

Tickets are priced BD15 for gents, presale, and BD20 on the door. Ladies pay Bd10.

Call 36 396-333. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sing your heart out to the latest tunes and classics from the Indian movie industry. There’s also a great selection of foods to enjoy. BD12 including food and beverage package.

Call 17 531-122.

136.1 Yoga Studio Bahrain Amwaj invites you to celebrate the auspicious day of Guru Poornima together in the studio. On this special day of the year, yoga practitioners honour their gurus, masters and teachers.

Come and experience the many dimensions of Yoga (physical, mental, emotional, psychological and traditional) as you bend, stretch, twist and meditate with awareness in a special full moon meditation.

The event is free and all are welcome but please bring your own mat.

13 114-136 or 33 491-718.

Scan to upload your events.

July 2017 23

happenings

24 July 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 25

bystander

EDB Majlis The Economic Development Board Ramadan Majlis took place at the Arcapita building in Bahrain Bay. Members and guests with HE Khalid Al Rumaihi

Jon & Jerad

Lu Yuedong & Shaikh Abdulla

Gaya, Sawsan & Douaa

Bader & Alaa

Hilda & Ahmed

Juzer & Amal

Hussaini & Ricardo

Buthaina & Bashar

Trisna, Zelina, Thel, Ryan & Badz

Gulf Hotel Ghabga

To view more images, scan the QR code

The Gulf Hotel held a Ghabga and Gargaoun at its corporate tent.

Suresh, Garfield, Fares & Ron

Gail, Shirley, Sean & Greg

Tayyaba, Shahzah, Mohammed & Omer

26 July 2018

Shibu, Shinto, Sona, Samuel & Siona

Mami, Selvia, RT & Saden

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ramee Grand Ghabga

To view more images, scan the QR code

The Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa held a Ghagba at its Acacia Ballroom.

Caroline, Kumar, HE Alfonso A Ver, Akash & Deep

Gracy, Survi & Prakash

Khalid, Saif & Nawal

Amna & Emran

Meriem & Sherly

Deepty, Payaam & Haseen

Sylvia, Rhys & Kat

Santosh

Bhavna, Sunita, Adit & Ramya

Rohit & Shalinee

Nine Training Center Ghabga The Nine Training Center held a Ramadan Ghabga celebration at the The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Sameer & Neetu

Shaikha Noora Al Khalifa & Gopika

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Shaikh Khalifa

Clarisssa, Stephen & Candice

Hirshin & Mariam

July 2018 27

INTERVIEWS

this month The Pearling Trail

Leading with Passion, p30

HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa

Youth Forum delegates

HERITAGE HERO Plaque of Pride, p31

LIZ O’REILLY As the Kingdom takes the spotlight on the world heritage stage, HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, president of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), speaks exclusively to Bahrain This Month about the importance of heritage.

New Beginnings, p33

Her Musical Muse, p34

View more info online

Bahrain is hosting the 42nd World Heritage Committee session. Can you please explain what the committee does?

The committee is comprised of 21 member states of UNESCO [United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation], where it deliberates on several issues pertaining to world heritage sites, be it natural or cultural sites. For example, conservation of sites, inscribing new sites, sites in danger and other matters relating to the role the convention [Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage] plays in capacity building, sustainable development and addressing challenges facing our shared heritage.

How many delegates are expected to attend and who will be involved?

The UNESCO convention has been ratified by 192 countries. Representatives from these countries make sure they attend the annual world heritage meetings in order to keep abreast with all the trends and, in Bahrain, we are expecting at least 2,000 delegates.

Many are experts in the field of heritage, including archaeologists, conservators, architects, environmentalists and government officials.

Bahrain became a member of the committee last November but has previously held membership and, indeed, the presidency of the committee. Does the

28 July 2018

committee change annually?

The committee is an important element in implementing the convention — its configuration is adopted at the General Assembly of the Convention held every two years. Each committee member has a mandate of four years.

Why is membership and the hosting of the 42nd session important for Bahrain?

Bahrain believes strongly in the World Heritage Convention as an important international tool in safeguarding the heritage of humanity. We, alongside the international community, believe that World Heritage Sites belong to all the peoples of the world, irrespective of the territory on which they are located.

Through this meeting, we hope to reinstate our commitment to the efforts of UNESCO as well inviting everyone in Bahrain to better know the convention and what it entails.

You have previously spoken of Bahrain’s commitment to protecting Arab heritage sites. Please outline the forms this has taken?

The Kingdom of Bahrain, through the establishment of a category two centre under the auspices of UNESCO, aimed to contribute to international efforts in protecting world heritage. The Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage (ARC-WH), based in Bahrain, provides support to all Arab states in protecting both cultural and natural heritage. The support includes providing assistance in the management of sites, enhancing the capabilities of experts working in the field, and to publish information related to world heritage. ARC-WH has been established since 2012 and its mandate has just been renewed by UNESCO for another term, a step which reflects the important role that the Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage is currently playing in the region. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview The committee is meeting at a time when heritage sites throughout the Arab world are under threat both from wars and security situations as well as from population growth and development. Is this an area the committee is concerned with and will there be specific discussions on strategies to offer protection?

This is certainly an important aspect of the World Heritage Committee meeting. The committee will examine reports on the state of conservation of sites inscribed on the world heritage list in danger which, unfortunately, has a high number of sites within the Arab region.

The discussions and decisions of the committee aim to offer the utmost support and protection to the sites in danger. A number of side events are also occurring during the committee which highlight examples of reconstruction methods of sites which have been damaged in the past.

Raising awareness is the first step towards ensuring enough protective measures to the sites currently under threat due to conflict or developmental impacts.

Is it an area delegate countries and organisations are already working on and, if so, how?

Of course, there is an entire session during the committee that is dedicated to the state of conservation of sites, and sites in danger have a specific recognition and are discussed thoroughly. We have seen throughout the years many of our Arab sites being put on the world heritage list in danger as a result of the increased wars and instability. We hope to shed light on these sites and actively promote them for their eventual safeguarding.

The Youth Forum on Heritage is running alongside the committee session. Can you outline the form this will take, expected number of delegates and subjects for discussion?

With UNESCO DG Audrey Azoulay at the signing of the agreement for Bahrain to host the committee

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Committee opening

“I believe one of Bahrain’s strongest assets is its cultural heritage.”

The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum is in line with the World Heritage Education Programme, and will be taking place in conjunction with the 42nd session of the World Heritage Committee. Thirty participants from around the world will take part. This year’s theme will be focusing on Protecting Heritage in an Ever-Changing World, with an overview of the Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy World Heritage Serial site and the challenges it faces today.

Muharraq, one of the country’s most important heritage areas, is 2018 Capital of Islamic Culture. Please can you outline how the title is bestowed and what benefit it brings to the area and the Kingdom?

Designated by the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO), Muharraq continues to retain the features of the classic Islamic city, with its alleyways winding into residential quarters in combination with larger axial thoroughfares. These special features connected the centre of each farij [quarter] to the seashore and the market which were crucial elements in the pearling economy.

Conveying the ideas of Islam, the suburban architecture in the neighborhood is seen to be made of modest exteriors, and screens the interiors that sustain the privacy of domestic life. We want to highlight how old cities can

remain vibrant and liveable, breathing through their community and constant care and upkeep.

We hope through this recognition that both residents and visitors take the time to explore Muharraq and its textured and rich past and understand the importance of its safeguarding and preservation.

Is development on the Pearling Trail now complete or are there any plans for further restorations?

The restoration of the traditional houses that make the Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy, is currently under way. This unique World Heritage Site, which was inscribed in 2012, tells the story of the entire economic and social world that revolved around pearling. It will be inaugurated in November, 2018.

To learn more about the site, visitors can take a boat trip to the Bu Maher Visitor Centre from the Bahrain National Museum to see the models of the entire site upon completion.

There is also another exhibition at the Bahrain National Museum with the models of the restoration projects.

What does the future hold for Bahrain’s heritage sector?

I believe one of Bahrain’s strongest assets is its cultural heritage and it is our collective duty and responsibility to safeguard it. At BACA, our priority is to place measures for the protection and preservation of sites. There still exist many archaeological sites that are yet to be excavated, and we hope that these will uncover new findings in the years to come for the many civilizations that passed through Bahrain. We invite the greater public and visitors to visit Bahrain’s many cultural sites and two World Heritage Sites to engage with the history of Bahrain.

July 2018 29

interview

HSBC Bahrain CEO Melika Betley talks about her role and gives a sneak peek into her world of banking.

Melika Betley

APPLE SHARMA

LEADING WITH PASSION

H

aving been born in Bahrain, British expat Mel is no stranger to the island.

“My parents were expats in the region,” she says. “We moved from here to Lebanon and then went back to the UK when I was seven years old. So, most of my formative years were in the UK.” A qualified lawyer, Mel joined HSBC in 2000.

Of her 18 years tenure with the company, she has spent 12 of those in the Middle East and moved to Bahrain last year. “Primarily my role is to lead the business here – that’s internal leadership – helping staff be the best they can be and provide great service to our customers,” she says. “We’re also here to play a part in the community, and that’s where the leadership also translates externally. So, it’s being the person that’s driving all the different elements forward to maximise our business in Bahrain.”

During her time in the region, Mel has had many different roles, all of which she says have been a learning experience, adding: “My training as a lawyer has really helped me throughout my career. Sometimes I wish I’d moved out of law sooner but I think it really trains your logical thought process, analytics and communication. That stood me in good stead for most of my non-legal roles.”

Mel believes that the region as a whole, including Bahrain, is going through its biggest economic transformation ever. On how private banking institutions, especially HSBC, can help support the economy, she says: “HSBC is the largest international bank globally. One of our core focuses is global trade and a key 30 July 2018

Digitalisation is undoubtedly the way forward for the banking sector.” advantage we offer is the ability to tap into that global network. Therefore, we’re ideally placed to serve the trade needs of Bahrain-based companies, as well as connecting our multinational companies looking to do business in Bahrain.”

Touching briefly on the new oil revenues and whether they will improve the fiscal deficit, she says: “I think the oil and gas discovery should prompt inward investment in itself to help Bahrain capitalise. As and when revenues come on stream, clearly, they will help any fiscal deficit. But in parallel, what is positive is the Kingdom’s reasserted commitment to continued diversification, because ultimately, that’s the goal of all GCC nations – a wellbalanced and diversified economy that’s not overly dependent on one source of revenue.”

HSBC has invested about USD6 billion in the last few years in innovative digital products, with HSBC Bahrain recently launching facial recognition, called Face ID for corporates, and Touch ID for retail. “Digitalisation is undoubtedly the way forward for the banking sector, and the key focus is to empower our customers and enable them to do business

more easily,” explains Mel. “Globally, HSBC participated in the first distributed ledger [or blockchain] technology-based trade transaction. We’re investing alongside a number of global banks in trying to transform the way we do trade internationally.

“Last year we launched a trade transaction tracker app in Bahrain, enabling our customers to do business more easily and get real-time updates on their transactions. Over the next 12 to 18 months we’ll continue to see improved services and products deployed in Bahrain.”

HSBC has had a presence in the Kingdom for over 70 years and has won the Domestic Global Cash Manager award over consecutive years. So, what’s the secret behind the success? “It’s a number of things,” says Mel. “We have a great platform called HSBC Net, which enables customers to effectively manage their businesses, liquidity and cash. We also have great people – local, regional and global technical experts who can tailor solutions to our customers’ needs.”

Mel is the first female CEO at HSBC Bahrain and has a team of over 200 staff. With an open door policy, she believes in getting to know them individually, and says spending time with people is one of the best ways to motivate them.

Mel enjoys island life and says: “It’s such a genuine and friendly country and society that you can’t help but feel welcomed here.”

With a love for water and a passion for swimming and diving, Mel has certainly chosen the right place to call home. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Pholto by: Gregory Pickett II

interview

Lieutenant Javan Rasnake of the US Navy talks to Behnaz Sanjana about his recent accolade.

Lt Javan Rasnake

PLAQUE OF PRIDE

L

t Javan Rasnake has been serving in the United States Navy just over nine years, the last two of which have been as a public affairs officer for Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain. “I was commissioned into the navy through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps programme at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University,” he says. “I had always been interested in serving in the military. Being in the navy is part of who I am.”

As a teenager, young Javan had always found the programmes at the US Navy challenging and rewarding. “I saw it as an opportunity to travel and broaden my horizons,” he says. After training at Defence Information School at Fort Meade, Maryland, he took up the post of community relations planner at the Navy Office Community Outreach in Millington, Tennessee. He adds: “It involved going out into, and building relations with, the community. We showed people what the Navy does, why it’s done and how we bring value to society.”

Happy to have taken the opportunity to work in the field of public affairs within the Navy, he says: “The way I see it, if you love your job you never have to work a day in your life. Although I had no experience in public affairs, the idea appealed to me and I thought I had the inherent skill set for it. I have strived to be good at it and make my best contribution to it ever since.”

This positive attitude towards his work has earned Lt Rasnake big returns. He has recently been proclaimed the United States Navy Junior Public Affairs Officer of the Year. He is awaiting www.bahrainthismonth.com

I had always been interested in serving in the military.”

administrative procedures to be completed to physically receive his award and citation from the chief of information – the senior naval public affairs officer. “All US Navy public affairs officers in the junior officer ranks the world over are eligible for it,” he explains. “Submitted nominations go through a long process [of assessment]. Besides the distinction of the award and the plaque that comes with it, the winner is presented with a Navy Commendation Medal, which is a decoration that rewards actions that are above and beyond the call of one’s basic duty.”

As he nears the end of his term in Bahrain, he recalls his experience as being filled with learning and fun. “This is my first overseas posting, and my role at NSA Bahrain entails internal and external communication and community relations,” he elaborates. “I am the chief editor of Bahrain Desert Times, the naval base’s newspaper providing news, entertainment and information on current events. My team and I run a bi-weekly radio show on 106.3 The Eagle, our base’s radio station. We maintain media relations – answering media queries, preparing leaders to speak in a public forum, and ensuring that the media has an opportunity to interact with the navy. We also manage our official social media channels and focus on actively building relations with the communities that we serve.

Being part of public affairs also entails involvement in humanitarian assistance missions with societies that do not have any ties with the US Navy.”

His future goal is to obtain advanced training to stay sharp on future trends and be the best at his work — a family value that he has imbibed from his parents. Off duty, Lt Rasnake loves spending time with his family. The voracious reader is into bird watching and has spotted quite a few exotic breeds in and around the island. He says: “Bahrain has been an opportunity to experience a new culture, learn a different way of life and meet some fantastic people within and outside the base. It has been an experience of a lifetime, that has been rewarding, both professionally and personally.”

July 2018 31

bystander

Anisha & Asif

The Westin Iftar

Deema, Amal & Shaima

To view more images, scan the QR code

The Westin City Centre Bahrain hosted a corporate Iftar at its premises.

Rawan, Aisling, Anna Marie & Nishi

Fouzia, Abdulrahman & Ali

Poornima & Suparna

Lei & Ming

Umer & Fadia

Waleed & Ali

Nishi & Kirsty

Edna

Micko

PR Ranganath

Shaji

Conchita

Drake

Tahir

Zahir

VAT Workshop Oasis Training Center held a VAT implementation workshop at its premises.

Ali & Ali

Sara & Deepti

City Centre Bahrain Ghabga City Centre Bahrain hosted a Ramadan Ghabga for the media at Furn Bistro at The Westin Hotel.

Waqas, Fuad, Duaij, Ali & Khalid

32 July 2018

To view more images, scan the QR code Reem & Sitara

www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

British University of Bahrain (BUB) vice president Professor Keith Sharp shares exciting new plans ahead of its opening.

Keith Sharp

APPLE SHARMA

NEW BEGINNINGS

‘S

eek Knowledge’ is BUB’s motto, and with Keith in the driver’s seat, it’s coming to fruition as he sets the wheels in motion.

Hailing from the UK, he has taken charge at BUB, which will open its doors at the end of September. “I’ve worked in education all my life, as a lecturer, a dean and then as a director of international programmes,” he says.

He worked at London School of Economics before coming to Bahrain, and was leading the international academic programmes at an institution here before the opportunity to start BUB arose.

As vice president, he is responsible for the entire academic affairs of the university. “All of our programmes come from the University of Salford in Manchester, so my role is to make sure they are according to Salford requirements, and that the university meets all of the local requirements in Bahrain and the Higher Education Council, and also the quality of education that we offer is as good as it can possibly be,” he explains.

Of the close partnership, Keith says: “We considered a range of British universities and felt that Salford was the best fit with what was needed in Bahrain. It has a very long tradition of working with industries, so all students will have opportunities for placements. The idea is to produce graduates who haven’t just studied in the classroom but are ready to work and be employed. We felt that in Bahrain there was an over-emphasis of classroom learning, and wanted to provide a different type of education www.bahrainthismonth.com

I’ve worked in education all my life.”

– focused on producing a certain type of graduate that industries need.

“BUB is an exclusive partner of Salford.

We’re effectively its branch campus in Bahrain, although we’re constituted as an independent university in our own right. All programmes, assessment and awards are made by the University of Salford.”

Providing a seamless movement between the two campuses, students can transfer to Manchester any time after they’ve completed their foundation year. BUB offers nine undergraduate programmes, which are organised into three colleges. “We have the College of Engineering and Built Environment, which offers civil engineering, quantity surveying, construction project management, and property and real estate,” Keith explains.

“We chose this because they are strengths of Salford and subjects that we identified Bahrain needs. Currently, areas like quantity surveying and construction management are not available as degree programmes here, so this is an opportunity for students to become qualified in areas that are needed by the economy.

“We have the College of Information and Communications Technology, focusing on computer networks and software engineering – both important in Bahrain, relevant in fields like fintech and information technology. And finally,

the College of Business that has marketing, business and management, and accounting and finance – disciplines that all businesses need.

“We already have an exclusive partnership with Batelco to work in the telecommunications field. We’ll be signing some more agreements with representatives from other industries, particularly in the building sector.”

The new campus, with a 10-storey building, is located at Atrium Mall and Towers in Saar.

It offers great facilities, including computing and engineering labs, a large multi-purpose hall, a students’ lounge and a wonderful view of Bahrain.

The admissions are in full swing and will continue over the summer until the end of September, when the classes start. Open to all, BUB is attracting students from around the world, with 100 to 200 anticipated by September.

It also aims to introduce a range of Master’s programmes – taught by Salford faculty and offered as part-time for working professionals.

“We hope to be able to bring the Salford PhD programme to Bahrain, which will allow people who already have their Master’s to continue their education further, without having to move abroad,” Keith adds.

Passionate about teaching, Keith – a sociology professor – will be tutoring one of the mandatory courses, and says he enjoys the variety that his job offers.

Having been here for three and a half years, Keith loves Bahrain, the generosity and kindness of the locals, and still gets excited by the fact that the sun shines every day.

July 2018 33

interview

Poet and artist Preeti Rana is all set to exhibit her art in London this summer.

She shares the inspiration behind her drive with Behnaz Sanjana.

Preeti Rana

HER MUSICAL MUSE

P

reeti Rana’s studio at her residence is not a typical artist’s enclave. No paintsplattered walls or enormous brushes lying around, and the medium the former architect uses for her current ‘music series’ of art is not too conventional either. She uses bleach on black ink to draw out beautiful golden, sepia and tan hues that give her work a striking appeal. The background of her subject is often splashed with text, remarkable detail and architecture.

“I gained confidence with the outcome of my first oil painting,” she says. “Then I looked to paint something with more movement and went with my mother’s suggestion of painting whirling dervishes.” After a number of enchanting paintings of the Turkish ascetics, her attention was captured by a classical singer in action.

Abida Parveen, a renowned Sufi singer, who Preeti often listened to, was her first attempt with black ink on canvas. As opposed to painting a portrait, Preeti says she paints music.

“I’m not well versed in the technicalities of portraiture,” she adds. “I receive the experience of music from a particular moment of expression on the face of a singer. They are the channel through which I’m receiving something to convey on the canvas. It’s transcendent.”

The experience of attending the concerts of many of the ‘greats’ of Indian classical music has been the fodder for her mausiqi (music) series. “For instance, when Begum Akhtar sang, she was powerful,” she says. “Her texture of voice is unmatched. I also painted 34 July 2018

My paintings made one American lady want to listen to these singers, and that made me feel accomplished.”

Amjad Sabri because I loved his performance, and Kishori Amonkar’s recital was transporting.

Someone may paint a face better than me but I convey a moment, a personal experience.”

Soon after exhibiting her Whirling Dervishes series in Bahrain, she was invited to showcase in Mumbai. Besides her oil paintings, she took the first of her ink-oncanvas music series, which piqued the interest of the organisers of ‘Art Mart’ at the Khajuraho Dance Festival in Madhya Pradesh (MP), India. This was Preeti’s springboard to gain further recognition and, more importantly, validation from art connoisseurs. “My paintings made one American lady want to

listen to these singers, and that made me feel accomplished,” she remembers.

Having gained greater context from the positive feedback she’d received, she pursued the series and exhibited at the Tansen festival in Gwalior, MP. Preeti further learnt about music with classical roots from Ustad Wasifuddin Dagar, the 20th generation of singers of the ‘Dhrupad’ genre in his family.

She says: “When he sang a little for me, my life was changed. It was like I had just met music.

Dhrupad is 500 years old – it’s not a melody, it’s divine frequency.”

Honest about not fully understanding the nuances of this kind of music, Preeti says: “But I don’t use the term ‘layman’ as a disclaimer; in fact, I hold it up as a flag. If this music could have such an effect on me, it can impact anybody. It’s world music that everyone needs to hear!”

The Nehru Centre in London, the cultural wing of the High Commission of India in the UK, has invited her for a solo exhibition, ‘The impact of Indian classical music in paintings and verse’, between August 6 and 10. She says: “I listened to the music of the singer I painted and allowed my feelings to dictate the final outcome of the painting. I plan to give my audience in London the audio track on headphones for each painting, so they can have their own unique experience. Some genres of Indian classical sounds can make the spirit take flight, while others, like Dhrupad, provide profound depth. I extend an invitation to everyone to come and see my art and share how it has moved them.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

franceinbahrain

France in

July 2018

A Special Supplement by Bahrain This Month

36 A Business Eye View Rim Jalali, executive director of French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain, on her role and the young organisation’s achievements.

37 Embassy Spotlight A showcase on two of the modern-day ladies, who keep the French Embassy ticking over.

38 The Business of Trade The French Embassy’s Economical and Commercial Department outlines the historic and commercial relationship between France and Bahrain.

39 French Design Flair Stanislas Gastaldi, CEO of Daniele Décor tells what’s in store as the design house prepares to celebrate French National Day.

44-45 Magnificent Seven BTM recommends some of France’s ‘must-visit’ destinations.

Commercial Index Technal Middle East................................................... 41 Zallaq Resort Co.:Sofitel Luxury Hotels.................. 43

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2018 35

franceinbahrain

Rim Jalali, executive director of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain, writes for BTM on her role and the young organisation’s achievements.

Rim Jalali

A BUSINESS EYE VIEW

W

hen I first came to Bahrain with my family in 2006, it was for a two-year expatriation experience. But this country is a real trap, a place where expats can enjoy life, in peace, in security, and feel at home. And here we are, still in lovely Bahrain for 12 years, and I hope more! I am sure you’ve already heard this story several times.

Before joining the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain [FCCIB], as its executive director at its creation late 2015, I worked at the French Embassy for eight years as deputy French economic counsellor. I have a background of more than 12 years’ experience in business development and marketing.

The creation of FCCIB was initiated by both sides – French and Bahraini businessmen – who believed in the potential of expansion of the business ties and relations between the countries. Through my position at the French Embassy at the time, I was very happy to take an active role and participate in the project until its official registration in April 2015.

I proudly took the position of FCCIB executive director in September 2015, and, under the guidance of a founding board of directors composed of half Bahraini and half French businesspeople, oversaw the launch of this young institution from scratch. This involved everything from the establishment of governance bodies, to the conception of service and membership strategy, to the purchase of furniture and equipment of the FCCIB offices.

In record time, the FCCIB was integrated into the extensive network of the French 36 July 2018

I worked at the French Embassy for eight years as deputy French economic counsellor.”

Chambers of Commerce and Industry abroad [CCIFI], which comprises 120 French chambers across 90 countries, bringing together 35,000 company members.

From inception, FCCIB had full support from Bahraini government and public institutional partners including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, the Economic Development Board, Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mumtalakat and Tamkeen, and developed strong relationships with French global partners such as the French Embassy in Bahrain, CCIFI and Medef International [part of the French Business Confederation].

FCCIB received a warm welcome from the business community in Bahrain and gained credibility through actions, events and a commitment to provide the best service to its members. I am very excited to see the results we have achieved after two fruitful years of activity.

Today, the FCCIB has three permanent staff completely dedicated to the service of more than 180 members representing 85 companies including a diverse portfolio of SMEs and multinational corporates – French, Bahraini and international.

FCCIB has organised more than 30 networking events and conferences, on a multitude of topics with high-level guest speakers. We have equally been actively assisting French and Bahraini companies in developing their businesses in Bahrain and France via tailor-made services including prospection [factfinding] missions and market intelligence. EDF, Fives, Delifrance and Groupe Fayat are some of the prominent corporations that chose the services of FCCIB to develop their activities in Bahrain. We recently launched the VIP Schengen Visa service in partnership with the French Embassy in Bahrain, and soon will be offering French courses to our members in collaboration with Alliance Française, and partnership with Tamkeen.

FCCIB positions itself today as the gateway for French companies interested to explore the Bahraini market and for Bahraini companies looking for opportunities in the French market.

It is an effective platform to showcase the French know-how and expertise of our French business community in Bahrain, in the region and, of course, in France.

For me, managing the FCCIB, is not just a job, it’s more of a passion. I started this amazing journey along with the chamber’s board members and founding shareholders and am very proud to see the results we have achieved so far. More challenges do, however, lie ahead and I look forward to the FCCIB becoming an integral part of the business scenery in Bahrain, providing more support to ambitious and creative entrepreneurs from Bahrain and France. www.bahrainthismonth.com

franceinbahrain Francophone countries in Bahrain and on the support of local or regional artists. These proposals, implemented in collaboration with the embassy’s partners, can take the form of workshops, conferences, film showings, concerts, festivals and more.

Lastly, the SCAC operates in the following areas of cooperation: medical, legal, scientific, governance, urbanism and academic. The last field of cooperation found the perfect showcase with the launch, in February 2016, of a master’s degree in public management, in partnership with ENA, the University of AixMarseille and Bahrain Institute for Public Administration (BIPA).

Embassy Spotlight With this year’s French Independence Day focusing on women’s empowerment and Marianne, the internationally known symbol of the republic, we showcase two of the modernday ladies who help keep the French Embassy ticking over.

Elodie Veniel

Elodie Veniel, in charge of linguistic mission at the French Embassy in Bahrain Newly arrived in this country, I have nevertheless quickly adapted to the life of the island – the friendliness of Bahrainis and their enthusiasm for new things. A thousand-yearold story that will leave you dreaming and which is evidenced by the many archaeological sites, the mixture of cultures and, at times, their confluence.

Accustomed to cultural outings, I was delighted to discover that one could, for example, in the same week in Bahrain, attend a concert, a conference and an exhibition vernissage. Bringing French culture to www.bahrainthismonth.com

Marianne

Bahrain and supporting Bahraini cultural initiatives is also part of my daily work in the Cooperation and Cultural Action Department of the French Embassy.

French culture being conveyed in part by the French language, I am in charge of promoting it and strengthening its use. French holds an amazing place in Bahrain. Since 2009, it has been compulsory as a second foreign language for students from the sixth grade to the final year. It is taught even in some primary schools and this trend is likely to become more widespread.

The SCAC [Service for Cooperation and Cultural Action], therefore, also has an important role to play in supporting the teaching of French as a foreign language and hopes to see a university diploma corresponding to these objectives. The French school, with its 730 students [at least a sixth of them are Bahrainis], is the proof of the appetite for the French language as well as for French education.

Another aspect of the linguistic mission is also to instill a taste for the language by offering language scholarships for high schools and universities for summer short stays in France. The number of scholarships offered by the embassy increases each year. Finally, the Campus France office welcomes and guides candidates wishing to study in France.

The SCAC also proposes cultural activities based on the dissemination of the culture of

Sophie Guégan

Sophie Guégan, vice-consul of the French Embassy Since joining the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2001, I have had the opportunity to serve in several parts of the world, including Turkmenistan, Namibia, United Arab Emirates, Russia, Kosovo and Monaco.

I was assigned to Bahrain in August 2017.

Familiar with the Gulf region, I discovered in Bahrain a welcoming country, warm and curious people, an environment conducive to the exchange of ideas. Living on an island surrounded by water, for me who is a fan of water sports and in particular scuba diving, is a daily rewarding and comforting thing.

My daily work, which is multidisciplinary, consists partly of organising the material, logistical and budgetary functioning of the embassy.

This is a new and enriching experience that gives me more insight into local practices.

Efforts are being made to support the attractiveness of France with, in particular, the reduction of delays in visa application processing times. On the initiative of the Ambassador of France, we wish to give our expatriate community as well as our foreign visitors all the attention they deserve.

Bahrain is a country that has a long history and tradition, but it is also geared towards the future and modernity. I am happy to be able to observe on site the energy of this will.

July 2018 37

franceinbahrain French Ambassador, HE Cécile Longé, meets the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, HE Zayed Alzayani

The Business of Trade As we prepare to celebrate French National Day, the French Embassy’s Economical and Commercial Department outlines the historic and current commercial relationship between France and Bahrain.

What brings French people to the Kingdom? Is there a notable business presence?

France has a history of commercial presence in Bahrain stretching back decades. The jeweller Jacques Cartier visited Shaikh Mujbal in 1911.

And, right after independence, Cegelec set up an entity in the country, in 1971, while Paribas and BNP opened branches in the Kingdom in 1975 and 1976, respectively. In 2015, France’s outward FDI (foreign direct investment) stocks in Bahrain amounted to USD906 million according to the IMF (International Monetary Fund), making France the eighth largest global investor in Bahrain with 3.2 per cent of total FDI stocks.

The trend of FDI flows is positive as well: France’s outward FDI flows grew a strong 110 per cent between 2014 and 2015. The location choices of French firms underlines the comparative advantages enjoyed by Bahrain: an attractive regulatory and fiscal environment, reliable logistics and transport structures turning the country into a hub for the region, a highly accessible Saudi market, competitive operational costs and a qualified labour force.

The sectoral breakdown of the 35 subsidiaries and representative offices in the country shows a healthy distribution between the secondary and tertiary sectors: energy, 38 July 2018

industry, construction, mass retail, financial services and tourism. While the lack of restrictions regarding the entry mode of corporations into the Bahraini market sets the country apart (the Kingdom is the only country within the GCC to allow full foreign ownership of the capital for 98 per cent of its sectors), in the mass retail segment, Carrefour opted for a franchise contract with the Emirati group Majid Al Futtaim, which allows the French entity to take advantage of its franchisee’s knowledge of local market conditions and managerial expertise, all the while hedging against moral hazard.

Among major French investors, Engie’s thermal power and desalination plants generate up to 70 per cent of the country’s electricity and drinking water; Technal Middle East produces aluminium profiles in partnerships with Balexco and records annual revenues of USD20 million; and AccorHotels has adopted management contracts with four investors for four hotels representing the group’s leading brands: Sofitel, Novotel, Mercure and Ibis.

What are the latest trade figures for the two countries?

French-Bahraini bilateral trade in goods reached a year-on-year growth rate of 64.9 per cent from October 2016 to October 2017, attaining USD189.4 million. Cosmetics (5.4 per cent), pharmaceuticals (3.9 per cent) and electrical equipment (4.9 per cent) still dominate Bahraini imports of French products,

with the latter registering a 103 per cent increase year-on-year. Lifting and handling equipment as well as electric motors, generators and transformers present the steepest growth, with 192.4 per cent and 165 per cent respectively, bringing their share of French exports to Bahrain to 3 per cent and 2.8 per cent. Regarding Bahraini exports, there has been a dramatic increase year-on-year, from USD52.4 million to USD149.3 million (+184.6 per cent), overwhelmingly driven by the surge in exports of petroleum refinery products. If the trend follows a similar pattern over the last two months of 2017, it will be the first time since 2013 that Bahrain has a bilateral trade surplus with France.

Is this an area that could be improved, and if so, how?

What is striking is that the fields that have been identified by the Kingdom as decisive for its medium-term future are fields where France has a wealth of expertise: urban planning, construction, renewable energy solutions, fintech, et cetera. Our bilateral relationship could certainly benefit from an accrued cooperation between the various actors in charge of export promotion (Business France Export, the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain, Bpifrance ECA, the Bahrain Development Bank) and investment attraction (Business France Invest, Bpifrance Investissement, Economic Development Board) in our two countries. www.bahrainthismonth.com

franceinbahrain

Stanislas Gastaldi, CEO of Daniele Décor, tells Liz O’Reilly what’s in store as the design house prepares to celebrate French National Day. Stanislas Gastaldi

FRENCH DESIGN FLAIR

O

ne of the Kingdom’s oldest, most quintessentially French businesses, Daniele Décor was established more than 30 years ago with the aim of bringing a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to the region’s interiors.

It has changed hands and is now part of one of the world’s largest bespoke French design companies, but is still busy exporting that unmistakable Gallic flair to the world, from our tiny Gulf island.

“The materials and techniques we use are, mostly, distinctly French – handed down through generations. And our workforce here are artisans who have been with the company for many years. They learn the techniques from their French counterparts and pass them on to others in the business,” says Stanislas.

Daniele Décor will be among the companies chosen to represent the republic at a celebration of French National Day to be held at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa (itself a recognisable French brand) on July 14.

And Stanislas is keen to point out that staffers will be showcasing a range of new techniques, recently introduced and available through the company exclusively in the region.

“A new project, straw marquetry, is something that can only be done by us,” he says. “It’s very dedicated, also a long process and expensive. There are fewer than five companies doing it in France, two in the US, and we are the only ones in the Middle East.

“It’s an old technique from the 17th century that was crafted in Poland, where they used it for relics to replace gold, as that was too www.bahrainthismonth.com

A new project, straw marquetry, is something that can only be done by us.”

expensive. At the beginning of the 20th century, around 1920, a French architect began to revive the technique on boxes and cabinets et cetera.

Designers in France and overseas soon started to reuse it. We tried it and it did a great job, so we sent some people to France and the US to learn the technique – we’ve only been doing it since September – we also had a French team come to work with us. It is very important for us to have that French know-how and we are using only French products to get the right high-end finishes.

“For the expo at the Sofitel we will also show eglomised glass [verre églomisé is a French term referring to the process of applying both a design and gilding onto the rear face of glass to produce a mirror finish]. We are gluing gold leaf onto the mirror, which is very popular

with high-end private clients. In this, we are also unique in the Middle East and I think there are, perhaps, only 10 companies doing this even in France.”

All these techniques come from Atelier Meriguet – part of the French conglomerate Group Meriguet, which has been a major shareholder in Daniele Décor since the original owner’s departure five years ago.

With this backing, the company has the biggest fabric collection in Bahrain with 37,000 fabrics and 17,000 wallpaper samples – though Stanislas says success is as much about the talent of the team of artisans, many of whom have been with Daniele Décor for decades, with skills being passed down through generations.

And, though the company is embracing traditional methods, he is also quick to point out that the modern world is never far away with virtual reality (VR) another USP (unique selling point) in the marketplace. “We can use VR to put you into the home you are going to have,” says Stanislas. “We can create a whole room in 3D and, for some special clients, we can also make them movies, traversing around the space.”

With painters creating canvases to hang on ceilings, à la Versailles, while others create video room simulations – there is no doubt that Daniele Décor is bringing a taste of French style to Bahrain and beyond. But Stanislas concludes: “Frenchness is at the heart of our service, the attention to detail and the traditional techniques we use. But, at the same time, we are proud to be an international company, too, with a Sri Lankan, French, Indian and Bahraini workforce.”

July 2018 39

franceinbahrain

TECHNAL MIDDLE EAST

The Multi-Season Living Space The latest offerings from this leading French company allow you to make the most of your outdoor space, with its Pergola system, designed to provide natural light and heat management for private or professional use.

Choices of architecture with remotely controlled and automated blades

Curved blade

Flat blade

40 July 2018

Technal Middle East (TME) is the Bahrain-based arm of the French international architectural aluminium systems supplier, TECHNAL®.

TME has been serving the regional market for almost 40 years offering a wide range of technically advanced proprietary products and bespoke solutions – specifically developed to meet clients’ requirements – including innovative solutions for all types of architectural aluminium façades, skylights, sunshades, windows, doors, office partitions, balustrades and blast- and bullet-proof applications.

The company’s newest innovation, which is perfect for the Middle Eastern climate, is the Pergola SUNEAL, which allows you to create a multi-seasonal outdoor living space.

Designed for both private and professional use, the Pergola SUNEAL enables the user to control natural light input by adjusting shading according to the seasons. The installation features straight and clean lines — there are no visible screws; the additional profile is positioned atop the blades to conceal movement; and the living space comes in all Technal shades with the possibility to paint the blades to match your requirements.

Pergola SUNEAL is not only attractive to look at, it also contributes to a reduction in energy requirements, particularly in summer, when it reduces the need for air conditioning in adjoining rooms while protecting façades and outdoor furniture from the fierce sunlight. In winter, the easily adjusted blades allow maximum light to enter the space.

The Pergola SUNEAL offers comfort and safety on a daily basis. Features include soft and silent blade movement; integrated motorisation in the upper part of the structure; blade orientation up to 130 degrees; blade handling by remote control with an RTScompatible system and a waterproof roof in the

closed position ensuring year-round utility.

It is extremely reliable, with the motor including stainless steel components that are resistant to rain and dust. Its durability is exceptional with minimal maintenance and the motorisation is tested through more than 20,000 cycles.

Additionally, the blades have resistance up to 230km/h without breaking.

A wide range of finishes and colours is available to meet individual requirements, including polyester coating and lacquered finish, enhancing existing buildings and allowing designers and architects freedom to incorporate the Pergola SUNEAL into stunning exterior design configurations.

As with all TECHNAL® products, only the best materials and parts are used to minimise maintenance and ensure long-term performance, giving customers the assurance of high quality guaranteed by the TECHNAL® name.

Hesham Kameshki, marketing and business development manager at TME, says: “The Pergola system is a result of the latest creative innovations of TECHNAL® that were introduced to the international markets at one of Europe’s largest building and construction trade fairs in Paris, at Batimat Expo that was held in November 2017. This is a new development on the SUNEAL range of TECHNAL® systems that incorporates a completely new application in various modules to suit different architecture concepts that offers end-users ultimate comfort, convenience and peace of mind at their homes, residences and various outlets. It will be launched by TME for the Middle East during Windows, Doors & Façades 2018 Expo in Dubai, which is expected to be well received and demanded by all concerned end-users in both private and commercial sectors in the GCC.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

OPEN A WINDOW ... BUT KEEP THE NOISE OUT? YES, IT IS NOW POSSIBLE!

IMAGINE WHAT’S NEXT

Give flight to your imagination!

This is what drives Technal to advance through inspiration and innovation. That’s why where others see just a window, we see scope to introduce cutting-edge technology, catering to people’s desires and addressing sustainability. We see the future. Imagination brought us here – and it will take us where we want to go...

Windows - Doors - Façades

TECHNAL MIDDLE EAST - P. O. Box: 21848, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T: +973 1722 5777 - F: +973 1721 7799 - E: technal@technal.com.bh - W: www.technal-me.com

franceinbahrain SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Get World Cup Ready!

Offering French art de vivre with the best of Bahraini tradition, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa provides ‘magnifique’ experiences for all its visitors.

Sofitel Bahrain is a five-star hotel and resort stretching along the beautiful sandy shores of Zallaq, home to the only Thalassa sea therapy available in the Middle East, offering unique forms of treatment using natural ointments and the healing properties of seawater.

It boasts 28 suites: 21 prestige suites, six rooftop opera suites with private infinity pools, and a magnificent royal suite – the largest one in Bahrain – offering a combination of Bahraini traditional touches with French elegance. The beautiful combination is evident from the carefully detailed ceilings to the mesmerising pieces of luxurious furniture. The six iconic rooftop opera suites, each with their unique themes, will take you on a breathtaking journey around the globe.

Sofitel Bahrain’s Magnifique Half Board package includes a stay at a grand sea view

Tent by the sea

luxury room, with a lavish breakfast and dinner buffet for two – all for only BD99.

The hotel guests’ and visitors’ experience only gets better with the Sofitel Bahrain 2018 FIFA World Cup Tent by the sea. Fans can watch all 2018 FIFA World Cup matches in glorious high-definition on the largest indoor screen in Bahrain. Entry fee is BD12, which can be used on food and beverages in the tent.

Relish delicious dishes served at the live

Chef Saha

Sofitel Eid Brunch Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa held an Eid brunch at its premises.

food counter and enjoy unlimited selected beverages during matches, with an exciting drinks promotion for BD25. The show gets better with captivating live performances by the Cuban band, Timeless. Gamers are also in for a treat with a fun-filled PlayStation 4 corner.

Relax and enjoy a magnificent World Cup outing on a beautiful terrace by the beach.

Call 17 636-363.

Gaurav, Mary, Nicko, Mikaela & Rami

To view more images, scan the QR code

Kaoutar, Saida & Elham

Dany & Marco

Rayan, Fatima & Liana

Khalid

Tais, Nadia & Laila

42 July 2018

Kim

Levan, Rumen, Prashanth, Rakesh, Danny, Aldio & Rubas

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BOOK A LUXURY ROOM WITH SEA VIEW INCLUSIVE OF LAVISH BUFFET BREAKFAST & DINNER FOR TWO Complimentary breakfast and dinner for children below 12 years old, up to 2 per room.

For reservations, please call us at +973 17 63 63 63 Terms & conditions apply.

105 Zallaq Highway, Building 2015, Block 1055, Zallaq area, P.O. Box 5554 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel.: +973 17 63 63 63 - Fax.: +973 17 63 63 64 - Email: h6722@sofitel.com - Website: www. sofitel.com/6722

franceinbahrain

Magnificent

SEVEN

CARCASSONNE A fortified city in the region of Occitanie with a population of around 50,000, the hilltop city is famous for the Cité de Carcassonne, a medieval fortress restored by the theorist and architect Eugène Violletle-Duc in 1853 and added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1997.

Inhabited since the Neolithic period, Carcassonne is located in the Aude plain between historic trade routes, linking the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Sea and the Massif Central to the Pyrénées. Great things to do include walking the ramparts of the medieval city, taking in a concert or opera at the Grand Théâtre, enjoying multiple options for fine dining and regional grape or taking a drive just outside the city to Lac de la Cavayère, a lake formed by a dam built in 1988, with 40 hectares of water, pine woodland and small beaches.

With the holiday season upon us, BTM recommends some of France’s ‘must-visit’ destinations.

BORDEAUX A familiar name, Bordeaux is the hub of the famed grape-growing region and experiences based around the noble beverage abound. It’s also a foodie paradise where you can take cooking classes, which will often include trips to the area’s bustling fresh-produce markets.

A port city which sits on the Garonne River, it’s known for its Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, 18th- to 19th-century mansions and notable art museums such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux. Public gardens line the curving river quays and the grand Place de la Bourse, centred on the Three Graces fountain, overlooks the Miroir d’Eau reflecting pool.

Make sure to visit the Chartrons district, one of the city’s hippest spots, where elegant mansions sit alongside converted warehouses, which are home to chic designer emporia and arts and antique traders.

ANTIBES Antibes, a resort town between Cannes and Nice on the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur), has serious star-spotting potential since it’s a longestablished playground of the rich and famous, known for its old town enclosed by 16th-century ramparts and the star-shaped Fort Carré, which overlooks luxury yachts moored at the Port Vauban marina.

Pay a visit to the Musée Picasso in the Château Grimaldi, which houses a large collection of works donated by the artist himself and his family. And then follow the Trail of Past Artists, marking the spots where many greats have pitched their easels over the years to capture the amazing light and scenery.

The forested Cap d’Antibes peninsula, dotted with grand villas, separates Antibes from Juan-les-Pins, a chic resort with buzzing nightlife and the Jazz à Juan music festival. If you’re heading to the cap, make sure to take in the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, one of the most luxurious hotels in the world and worth a visit, even if just for a look or to enjoy a drink or a spa visit.

44 July 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

franceinbahrain

DORDOGNE Set between the Loire Valley and Pyrénées mountains, the Dordogne is known for prehistoric cave paintings in the Vézère Valley, like those in Lascaux Cave. There are cave complexes across the region and breathtaking landscapes of stalagmites and stalactites abound.

The region is also known for its numerous castles, such as the Château de Hautefort, one of the Dordogne’s most prestigious castles which underwent major renovations only to be

destroyed by fire in 1968 and then brought back to its present-day glory.

The town of Périgueux is home to the Cathédrale St-Front, with its five domes, and the Vesunna Museum, built around Roman ruins. And a trip to the medieval Sarlat-la-Canéda is a must.

The most famous town in the region, it centres on the Rue de la République with mazes of narrow streets running off on either side, where you will find shops and restaurants selling regional specialities such as truffles.

MONT ST MICHEL Get away from it all with a trip to this island commune in Normandy, located about a kilometre off the northwestern coast, at the mouth of the Couesnon River near Avranches.

The island is accessible at low tide to the many pilgrims who visit its abbey, but, with the incoming waves, it is cut off, making it a hugely important defensible position during its heyday – in fact, with just a small garrison, it withstood a full attack by the English in 1433.

One of France’s most recognisable landmarks, visited by more than 3 million people each year, MontSaint-Michel and its bay are on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. Its steep streets are home to chic hotels, restaurants, museums and galleries.

ANNECY Known as the ‘Pearl of the French Alps’, this is a hidden gem that will not disappoint.

Annecy is known for its Vieille Ville (old town), with cobbled streets, winding canals and pastel-coloured houses. Overlooking the city, the medieval Château d’Annecy, once home to the Counts of Geneva, contains a museum with regional artefacts such as alpine furniture and religious art, plus a natural history exhibit.

From river rafting and tubing to

parasailing and gliding, the area around the town is a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts. But, if you’re feeling less energetic, there is plenty of interest to explore, such as the local castle, Jardins de l’Europe – a municipal park in truly stunning surroundings – and the Pont des Amours, which spans the Vassé canal – legend says that lovers who kiss on the bridge will be together forever. Don’t forget to pose for a picture on the famous Palais de l’Isle, which sits in the middle of the Canal du Thiou.

CHAMONIX As our temperature rises, the idea of snow-capped mountains, hot chocolate, cheese fondue and mulled grape becomes more and more appealing. If you agree, then Chamonix may be the spot for you. Located in the heart of the Rhônes Alpes region, the town is bustling with life and a huge favourite with winter sports enthusiasts. Close to the junction of France, Switzerland and Italy, Chamonix is a cosmopolitan resort at the base of Mont Blanc.

The high altitude of the skiing (most pistes are over 2,000m) means that snow is assured through to the end of April. In addition, there is an incredible amount of off-piste and skitouring terrain that draws experienced skiers and snowboarders from all around the world.

The town’s main attraction is Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe at 4,810m. Visitors either come to reach the summit themselves, or view it from the station at the top of the Aiguille du Midi cable car (3,842m). At the top of the Aiguille du Midi, you’ll find ‘Step into the Void’, one of Chamonix’s most recently added attractions. You literally step into a glass-sided box with views of Mont Blanc to your left and a 1,000-metre drop beneath your feet!

Another hugely popular place to visit is the Mer de Glace glacier (the ‘Sea of ice’) which is accessed by the Montenvers train. From the top, you can descend to an ice cave excavated into the glacier via a cable car and a series of walkways and steps. Markers along the rock walls on the descent show you just how much the glacier has retreated in recent years. www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2018 45

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MOTORING

this month Bentley New Continental GT

The All-Rounder, p48

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse

Bentley Bentayga

My Life in Cars DICK POTTER Thursday evening, June 14, may have been somewhat divisive in many households in Bahrain. Households with those intent on watching the onset of the World Cup, versus those who’d rather stick pins in their eyes.

More of a rugby fan myself, I do concede that any time Blighty is on the pitch, I shall however be glued to the box, so to speak. Now, before I get shown a red card by the Ed, this being a car article, NOT a football one, best I hastily explain myself. Given their lucrative wages, the big-league players at this year’s World Cup can afford some impressive wheels to transport them around.

Three of the best players, Messi, Ronaldo and Neymar earn mega-bucks. No surprise then that Ronaldo has one of the most expensive cars in the world, with his Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse costing in the region of USD2.4 million.

It’s fairly safe to assume there’s plenty of motoring ‘bling’ – Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Aston Martins, Porsches and the likes littering the driveways and lurking in the garages of all our World Cup heroes.

Similarly, safe to assume they might also enjoy being seen out and about in the aforementioned bling. Why not whiz down to the shops in your chrome-plated Mercedes-Benz SLR or your matte grey Ferrari F12?

Why not, indeed? Well, perhaps surprisingly, it seems not all of the football heavyweights want to be gawped at by their adoring fans as they go about their chores.

Instead, they want to whiz down to the shops, transport their kids, partners and maybe even the dog around www.bahrainthismonth.com

with somewhat less bling on display.

Many of them, it turns out, are actually SUV fans.

Indeed, I am reliably informed El-Hadji Diouf drives a Cadillac Escalade. Range Rover has, for a long time, had the top end of the SUV footballer market pretty much stitched up. Rumour has it that many of the English premier league players such as Carragher, Dafoe and Lampard have all owned one. These days, however, there’s an ever-expanding list of rivals.

Bentley is at, or not very far from, the top of that list.

Whilst Bentley’s Continental GT – Wayne Rooney drives one – remains a big hit with the booted gods, it is Bentley’s Bentayga, which is their biggest scorer off the pitch.

A classily imperious-looking SUV indeed – I’d like one myself, actually, if only for the Breitling clock installed on the dashboard – the Bentayga starts at a trifling USD214,000. Well, what else are these guys going to spend their outrageous pay packets on? Fair enough, a few of them do have private jets; the alternative way to fritter your pay packet!

Wages for the modern-day footballer have never been so high. Little wonder, then, the car manufacturers are bending-like-Beckham to help take some of that cash off their hands. Bentley and Rolls Royce have admirably revamped their iconic models of yesteryear – which our talented superstars would possibly not have previously been interested in – to ensure they don’t miss out on the spending action. Surely a win-win for all? Whatever team you’re rooting for in this year’s World Cup, safe motoring.

Email dick@redhousemarketing.com

A Fitting Title, p50

Enjoy the Outdoors, p51

Putting the Future in Writing, p52

View more info online

July 2018 47

motoring

Sunray multi-van

JAC MOTORS

The All-Rounder The styling of the JAC Motors Sunray multi-van has been created and developed by the company’s design centre in Turin, Italy, while the interior was conceived by the Tokyo, Japan, design centre using European advanced products as the benchmark.

48 July 2018

More practical, comfortable and safer than the traditional van, it is as spacious as a coach, as comfortable to drive as a sedan and its loading capacity matches many vans.

JAC is known as China’s most export-focused commercial vehicle maker, with models that offer the latest emission compliant engines, advanced transmissions and international componentry as well as their European styling.

JAC’s range in Bahrain is led by the Sunray, a 3.6metre wheelbase van that certainly displays those European design standards. With its seriously spacious interior, the Sunray is available in two options: as a large-capacity commercial van, or as a 15-seater mini bus, in either standard or luxury trim.

Powered by a 2.8-litre diesel Cummins engine, the Sunray comes with anti-lock brakes and SRS airbags.

The front of the vehicle features a soft outside line for headlights and fog lights, and an inverted U curve on the natural front angle of the windward side creates an ultra-low-drag coefficient that is dynamic and enterprising. The side mirrors offer a unique wide view with zero wind noise.

In terms of comfort and safety, the vehicle offers comfortable high-back recliner seats with hand rests and seat belts. And the Sunray’s high roof ensures ease when boarding and alighting the bus.

Eagle-eye-design headlights show the vehicle’s spirit, while halogen headlights provide good penetration to ensure safe driving on foggy days. They also offer easy maintenance at a low cost. As well, the vehicle boasts reversing radar warning equipment

for ease of parking and safety.

The Sunray is widely used in hotel, air crew, school and staff transportation and for commercial purposes in the panel van segment.

The Sunray is priced from BD7,500 on the road with three years/100,000km warranty. Sunray is offered by JAC Motors at its showroom at Segaya Plaza, Zinj. Why not arrange a test drive and see the vehicle for yourself?

Call 17 270-270. www.bahrainthismonth.com

THANK YOU VALUED CUSTOMERS

WINNER OF Bahrain’s Leading

Car Rental Company 2018

motoringnews&launches

More to Celebrate Treat yourself as Al Haddad Motors introduces its most magnificent offer ever – five years’ warranty with unlimited mileage on all new Mercedes-Benz models. To celebrate this magnificent offer all new vehicles will come with a complimentary five years’ Service Select Plan or tailored on-road package in addition to a Star Gift Pack. Customers can select any one of the Star Packs, which includes ceramic paint protection, window tinting and Mercedes-Benz accessories. The ongoing offer is only available until Eid al-Adha.

A Fitting Title

The series production of the first purely electric Porsche is set to begin next year. In preparation, the vehicle has now been given its official name: The ‘Mission E’ concept study, the name currently used to describe Porsche’s complete electric offering, will be known as the Taycan. It can be roughly translated as “lively young horse”, referencing the imagery at the heart of the Porsche crest, which has featured a leaping steed since 1952. “Our new

electric sports car is strong and dependable; it’s a vehicle that can consistently cover long distances and that epitomises freedom,” explains Oliver Blume, chairman of the executive board of Porsche AG. The Oriental name also signifies the launch of the first electric sports car with the soul of a Porsche. The company announced the name for its first purely electric series as part of the ‘70 years of sports cars’ ceremony.

Debut in Le Mans

Sporty and Elegant

The new BMW 8 Series Coupe celebrated its world premiere at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, France. The new luxury sports car is the production counterpart of the BMW M8 GTE, in which six BMW works drivers battled for a good result.

Klaus Fröhlich, member of the board of management of BMW AG, Development, and Pieter Nota, member of the board of management of BMW AG, Sales and Brand BMW, unveiled the BMW 8 Series Coupe for the guests in BMW M

Motorsport Hospitality, while the BMW M8 GTE celebrated its Le Mans debut on the racetrack.

“We normally develop cars for the road and then get these ready for the racetrack,” says Klaus. “The BMW 8 Series represents the first time that we have approached this in a different way. We developed the car and competed successfully in races with it.

We have used this experience for the road version. From the racetrack to the road – you feel that every second.”

Audi has announced the new face of the Q family: the Audi Q8. It combines the elegance of a four-door luxury coupé with the practical versatility of a large SUV. Richly equipped, comprehensively connected and tough enough for off-road duty, it is a confident companion for business and leisure.

It has an expressive design with a new imposing octagonal Singleframe and numerous details that hint at the design of the original Audi Quattro. Along with generous, elegant interior, touch-operating concept and high-tech navigation, it also features all-wheel steering and quattro drive for agile handling and best traction.

The Audi Q8 launches in the Middle East markets in autumn 2018.

50 July 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Enjoy the Outdoors Just in time for summer evenings, Mercedes-AMG extends its sports car portfolio with an attractive open-air model – the new AMG GT S Roadster.

With this latest addition, the AMG GT family now has a dozen members: four two-door Coupés, three Roadsters, two customer sports racing cars and three four-door Coupés.

The basis for the high driving performance of the new AMG GT S Roadster is the combination of a lightweight aluminium spaceframe, a V8

biturbo engine, a seven-speed dual clutch transmission, a rear axle locking differential and a sport suspension with aluminium double wishbone axles.

Compared to the AMG GT Roadster, the AMG GT S Roadster is rendered even more dynamic by numerous modifications to the engine, suspension, brakes, design and interior. This positions it between the AMG GT Roadster and the even more powerful AMG GT C Roadster, now providing a choice of three open-top two-seaters.

A First for Saudi The ABB FIA Formula E Championship is set to make its debut in the Middle East next season in Riyadh, with the Saudi Arabian capital scheduled to host the opening round of season five in December.

In a double-first for the electric street racing series, Formula E will bring international motorsport to Saudi Arabia for the very first time as part of a 10-year agreement with the General Sports Authority and Saudi Arabian Motor Federation. Alongside hosting the first fully electric race in the region, the exciting news signals the start of a new era of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship with the eagerly anticipated competitive debut of the next-generation cars in Riyadh.

The announcement was made by His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Sultan bin Abdullah AlFaisal, president of the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation, and His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki AlFaisal Al Saud, vice-chair of the Saudi Arabia General Sports Authority, together with Alejandro Agag, founder and CEO of Formula E. Pending confirmation of the calendar by the FIA World Motor Sport Council, the E-Prix will see the Formula E cars navigate the streets of the picturesque Ad Diriyah district. Further details on the location and circuit layout will be revealed in due course. www.bahrainthismonth.com

New in Town First Motors, the exclusive distributor of Genesis vehicles in Bahrain, announced the introduction of the new Genesis G70 in the Kingdom, for customers who wish to experience first-hand the exceptional capabilities of this new sports sedan.

The stylish and dynamically designed luxury sedan is the third such model that has been unveiled

by Genesis, following the introductions of the Genesis G80 and the G90, both of which have been well received for their customer-centric offerings.

With world-class technological innovations and the highest levels of refinement, convenience and dynamic performance, the new Genesis G70 completes the brand’s core sedan line-up.

The vehicle is being offered at an exceptional price range starting from BD14,990 to BD19,990.

In other news, Genesis ranked highest among all automotive brands in the JD Power 2018 US Initial Quality Study (IQS) released recently. The Genesis G90 also placed first among vehicles in the Large Premium Car segment for quality ratings.

Safety First The new 2018 Ford Expedition has earned the US government’s highest possible crash test rating of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, making this full-size SUV a leader in safety.

Its improved performance is powered by an average weight savings of up to 325 pounds through the use of high-strength, military-grade, aluminium alloy in the body, which lowers the vehicle’s centre of gravity for greater stability and driving dynamics.

The Expedition is equipped with dual seat belt pyrotechnic pretensioners in the anchor and retractor, which contributes to safety, helping to keep occupants in place in the event of a crash. It also has new technology offerings; Cross-Traffic Alert, Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, auto high beams and enhanced Active Park Assist promote greater driver confidence and control.

July 2018 51

motoringnews&launches

Putting the Future in Writing Bentley Motors announces a new and exclusive partnership with Graf von Faber-Castell to launch a collection of luxury writing instruments and accessories that perfectly combine timeless design, passion for precision and extraordinary craftsmanship The ‘Graf von Faber-Castell for Bentley’ collection comprises three ranges of writing instruments and matching accessories, to be launched later this year. All products were jointly designed, developed and manufactured by Graf von Faber-Castell and Bentley to reflect their joint commitment to the highest level of craftsmanship. Chris Cooke, Bentley Motors’ head of product design, and Count Charles von Faber-Castell, head of Premium Graf von Faber-Castell, worked closely to create a classic yet contemporary pen design, reflecting both brands’ values and heritage.

Count Charles von Faber-Castell (right) with Chris Cooke

Over the coming year, the collection will be expanded to include additional ranges of writing instruments and a special limited edition.

Skills Rewarded INFINITI Middle East (IMEA) recognised six of its sales and aftersales consultants, who were selected through its first-ever Regional Skills competition. The winners received their accolades Skills competition winners along with from the managing director the management from INFINITI of IMEA during a dedicated ceremony held recently.

“At INFINITI we continuously strive to improve the synergy between our Sales and Aftersales departments as we believe that this is key to the delivery of the Total Ownership Experience, which is the best possible ownership experience for our INFINITI customers,” says INFINITI Middle East managing director Markus Leithe.

“The INFINITI Regional Skills competition involved a number of our accomplished services and sales consultants from across the region to highlight their success and reward their efforts in further enhancing our customers’ experience in the region.”

The final ceremony witnessed the rewarding of three service consultants out of 10 finalists and three sales consultants out of six finalists who took part in the final stage of the competition.

A Powerful New Look Nissan extends its iconic Pathfinder SUV line-up with the launch of 2019 Nissan Pathfinder Midnight Edition, adding visual excitement with its sleek and stylish exterior design and intriguing finishing colours.

With its exclusive black aluminium-alloy wheels, black exterior accents and LED interior lighting elements, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder Midnight edition provides a unique head-turning look. This stylish, assertive and moodier version of the iconic Nissan Pathfinder SUV features the brand’s signature V-Motion Grille, striking boomerangshaped headlights with LED daytime running light, and a redesigned front and rear profile. It also comes complete with 20-inch alloy wheels and a panoramic sunroof.

It is fully equipped with Nissan Intelligent Mobility features such as Intelligent Emergency Breaking, Intelligent Cruise control, Blind Spot Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent 4x4 for enhanced safety and security.

The comfortable seven-seater SUV is also anchored with the EZ flex seating system that allows easy access to the third row, with a child safety seat remaining securely in place in the second row.

The new model will be available at Nissan dealers in selected Gulf countries from July, at a price of USD44,080 (inclusive of five per cent VAT). Prices will vary from market to market.

52 July 2018

New Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 engine Cadillac CT6 V-Sport

Hot V Design Cadillac begins a new chapter in its highperformance legacy with the introduction of its firstever twin-turbo V-8 engine. Set to be available in the Middle East by 2019, the new engine will be the centrepiece of the new CT6 V-Sport, an engaging sports sedan infused with the DNA of Cadillac’s world-renowned motorsports programme.

Developed as a small-displacement V-8 in the classic vein and offering exceptional power density of 131hp (98kW) per litre, this new Cadillac-exclusive 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8 — GM estimated at 550hp (410kW) and 627 lb-ft of torque (850Nm) — elevates the CT6’s performance to a new plateau and offers drivers an unparalleled experience behind the wheel. An optional 500-horsepower version will also be available.

The new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 is a clean-sheet design that also introduces unique design elements developed to balance performance and efficiency with compact, mass-efficient packaging.

Nissan Pathfinder Midnight Edition

www.bahrainthismonth.com

destinationjuffair

Juffair: Stay, Work, Play!

BTM brings you a comprehensive list of all the lifestyle amenities that the electric district of Juffair offers.

Even if you’ve spent only a few weeks in the Kingdom, it’s unlikely that you haven’t heard of glitzy Juffair. It is home to one of Bahrain’s biggest cultural highlights, Al Fateh Grand Mosque, as well as the base of the American Naval Support Activity on the island. Once a dusty little village in suburban Manama, today Juffair has something for everyone, and has become a haven for residents and tourists alike.

Schools Given that Juffair is a residential hub, it offers a good choice of educational institutions. Modern Knowledge Schools and Bahrain School (the oldest one in the area), both teach the American curriculum. A fairly new entrant on the block is the New Generation International School, which offers the British curriculum.

Hospitals One of the island’s most reputed and state-of-the-art medical facilities, the Bahrain Specialist Hospital is located in Juffair. The sprawling facility provides topnotch healthcare across a range of medical services for adults and children. Its management, doctors, nursing staff and infrastructure are solely dedicated to your wellbeing.

Malls Juffair Mall cannot be missed with its neon signboards boasting the top brands it houses. Besides its anchor outlet, Lulu Hypermarket, the mall has a good variety of large-scale and individual retailers, cosy cafés, Mukta A2 Cinemas and a children’s play area and food court.

54 July 2018

All eyes are on the upcoming Oasis Mall, Juffair, which is nearing completion and is expected to have its grand opening with much pomp in the near future.

Al Raya Mall is nestled amongst some of the popular hotels in Juffair. It provides a tranquil shopping experience and its repertoire includes highend grocer Alosra, Starbucks, Bluefield Burger, Purple Swirl (for frozen yogurt), Round Table Pizza and Kojo for Japanese cuisine. It also houses Challenge Chambers, a real-life escape game, which needs players to crack the codes and solve the mystery to get out of their staged captivity.

Al Murjan Centre has been a familiar sight in the district and is a go-to for the community in and around the neighbourhood. Al Jazeera Supermarket on the ground floor is conveniently located and the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf café is one of the favourite haunts of Juffair residents and visitors. There are boutiques and salons located here as well.

Beauty Fixes There is no dearth of beauty salons for ladies in this bustling locality. Probably the most renowned is Joz Salon & Spa, which provides a range of beauty services for hair, nails and skin. Located in American Alley, it is the trusted place for ladies to come out looking and feeling like a million bucks without burning too large a hole in their pockets.

Gloss Salon and Spa at the Marriott Executive Apartments is another high-end beauty spot. This exquisitely furnished outlet offers luxurious spa and salon treatments. Sherry spa is also popular with many local residents. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fitness Centres Juffair Fitness Centre, located on a quiet street, has an outdoor pool, gym facilities and a Jacuzzi. It provides various fitness plans that help to achieve remarkable results. In addition to several workout programmes, the centre offers customised personal training based on the individual needs of each member to help achieve their fitness goals.

Fitness First, located in Juffair Mall, is a household name when it comes to exercise and getting fit. The branch in Juffair has a state-of-the-art gymnasium, modern equipment and highly qualified trainers, as well as group classes for those who enjoy working out with friends.

Hotels The locality serves as a welcome base for tourists and newbies in Bahrain and is dotted with a host of hotels – ranging from budget to top-notch – to suit all tastes and needs.

Park Regis Lotus Hotel, situated in one of the newer parts of Juffair, is a four-star property that is an appropriate choice for the business and leisure traveller. Its various room configurations are elegantly furnished and provide great amenities. Its on-site restaurants are a popular haunt for in-house as well as walk-in customers.

The 105 rooms at Atiram Premier Hotel are well appointed and offer guests all the comforts of a fourstar deluxe establishment. The hotel has a number of dining and recreational outlets that cater to a wide range of preferences. Wembley Sports Bar, Coda Jazz Lounge and Cavallo Club Lounge are favourites amongst the party-going crowds of Bahrain.

The K Hotel is another reputed property that provides guests with contemporary four-star lodging.

Its signature restaurant, Kolors, hosts weekend brunches and buffets as well as weekday theme nights that are appreciated by connoisseurs of good food.

The Ramee Group of Hotels has had its presence in Juffair for a long time, with a selection of properties ranging from four-star to apartment suites, including Ramee International Hotel, Ramee Rose Hotel and Ramee California Hotel, amongst others. And the district’s newest addition, the Wyndham Garden is this chain’s largest hotel worldwide.

steaks at reasonable prices. The portion sizes and authenticity of the dishes are a representation of Southern American comfort food. Guests can enjoy a range of money-saving promotions most days throughout the week.

Cucina Italiana is the Italian eatery that offers a great ambience, besides delicious Mediterranean fare.

The food is prepared with fresh vegetables, succulent meat, hand-tossed dough and superior-quality tomato sauces, all served with the trademark Italian gusto.

The famous Lanterns restaurant has one of its branches located next to Al-Najma Club in Juffair.

This charming little venue offers the taste of ‘Moghul & Ming’, which offers a variety of contemporary Indian dishes along with Chinese favourites for patrons to take their pick.

American Alley is undoubtedly the hub of eatingout in Juffair. This one-way street has a plethora of choices – from fast food to casual and upscale dining – a foodie’s paradise. Talabat, Bahrain’s premier food ordering and delivery platform, makes it possible for you to enjoy the classic and innovative culinary creations of these diners from the comfort of your home or office. All it takes is a few clicks to order in from one of the many restaurants on the brand’s website or mobile app. Bon appétit!

So, whether you reside in the area or want a vibrant new place to explore, don’t forget to check out some of these venues for a taste of Juffair.

Restaurants Bennigan’s is undoubtedly one of Bahrain’s most popular American restaurants. Patrons love its Irish twist, and throng there for special offers and promotions. Besides lunch and dinner, a breakfast, takeaway and extensive drinks menu are available.

Big Texas BBQ, located at the Best Western Olive Hotel, is an authentic American smoke house that takes great pride in its mouthwatering smoked meats. It offers USDA certified Angus beef, Prime T-Bones and Porterhouse steaks, with chicken being imported from Brazil. The outlet boasts great quality www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2018 55

destinationjuffair

Dr Supradeep Kumar Kamisetty

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Taking the Pain out of Braces Specialist orthodontist Dr Supradeep Kumar Kamisetty, of Bahrain Specialist Hospital, explains how to use dental wax, dental silicone and lip protectors on orthodontic braces.

When you first get orthodontic braces, the brackets may rub the inside of your lips and gums, creating mouth sores. Although these are not dangerous, they are uncomfortable and can make it difficult to eat or speak. Fortunately, a little orthodontic dental wax, dental silicone, or an orthodontic lip protector can create a barrier between your braces and your mouth.

Orthodontic Dental Wax Dental wax is simply a medical-grade soft wax that is safe to use in your mouth. If you’ve never used dental wax before, here are some instructions: 1. Break off a tiny piece of wax from the container.

2. Work it between your fingers to warm and soften it a little (to make it more shapeable).

3. Place the wax directly on the bracket that is causing the irritation. It will stick to the bracket and the tooth. You can use as much or as little dental wax as you need to be comfortable. Play around with it to establish what’s best for you.

Dental wax is non-toxic, so don’t worry if you swallow it. Wax in your mouth tends to break down over time, so you’ll probably need to re-apply more after eating a meal. Take off the wax before you brush your teeth, or it will get all over your toothbrush (it can be difficult to clean off). Individual containers of dental wax can be collected from your orthodontist.

Dental Silicone Dental silicone is a little different. It lasts longer than regular dental wax. Your brackets must be extremely dry when you apply dental silicone or it will not stick.

Some people love dental silicone and some prefer regular wax. If you have never used dental silicone, ask your orthodontist for a small packet, or buy just a

56 July 2018

small amount to start with. Sometimes you have to ‘hang in there’ until you perfect your technique to get the dental silicone to stick. But once you get the hang of it, you will enjoy the fact that it lasts longer in your mouth than regular dental wax. Some people use silicone earplugs (the type used for swimming) as dental silicone, but that is not necessarily advisable.

That silicone has been approved to use in the ear, but not in the mouth.

Brace Guards and Brace Lip Protectors In addition to dental wax, there are many types of lip protectors and brace guards available at dental offices. These products shield large portions of your brackets from your gums. Some lip protectors hook on to the wires between your brace brackets. Other types actually fit around the entire bracket, which totally shields the brackets from your mouth.

Orthodontic lip protectors are great for people who do a lot of speaking, singing or who play a wind instrument. In fact, there is even a product where you can mould your own brace guard out of polymer material at home.

There is no need to suffer with cut-up gums and lips when you have braces. Use some dental wax or a lip protector and keep yourself comfortable.

Remember: Schedule regular cleanings and checkups with your or your child’s orthodontist twice a year after the braces come off. Regular check-ins with the dentist means that any potential issues are caught early and are easier to fix.

Call 17 812-000 or 17 812-222 or email supradeep@ bsh.com.bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander R E D E F I N I N G

N I G H T L I F E

Ladies Night Everyday

Rotary Clubs Ghabga The Rotary Clubs of Sulmaniya, Manama and Adliya, and the Rotaract Club of Bahrain, held a Ghabga at The Gulf Hotel.

Jano, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Osama & Wael

Faisal, Sunita & Bob

Khalid & Aleksandra @clubtheonebahrain

W H E R E

Contact: 33366659

the one bahrain

F O O D

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M U S I C

M E E T

Hind, Mazen Alumran & Marjan

P-Squared Band

Dipa & Renuka

Seema & Amal

GIRLS GENERATION DANCE CREW P-SQUARED BAND

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FEATURED VDJ RYAN ILUSTRE

OPERATION TIMINGS WEEKDAYS // 5PM-2AM WEEKENDS // 1PM - 2AM

LOCATION: PARK REGIS LOTUS HOTEL, JUFFAIR. MANAMA BAHRAIN

Leyla

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Majid & Nada

Contact: 35633050 / 33536446

@republiqlounge

republiqlounge

July 2018 57

destinationjuffair ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

A Sporting Spirit Catch all the excitement of international games with delicious food and drinks at Juffair’s Wembley Sports Lounge located at Atiram Premier Hotel.

Wembley Sports Lounge, one of Bahrain’s favourite party destinations, gives you and your friends the opportunity to experience a fresh attitude to food, sports and entertainment. This happening venue invites you to enjoy the World Cup action live on the big screens to cheer for your favourite teams. With the final match being played on July 15, you still have time to get up to speed with all the feats on the field.

In other sports, the Wimbledon tennis tournament that started in June culminates with the men’s final on the same day as the World Cup. And, as always, if Wembley Sports Lounge can show it, you can watch it!

The venue now offers a traditional Sunday roast dinner, but on Saturday, to suit your convenience. The meal will be as authentic as can possibly be, to make guests feel like they

are sitting in an English country pub.

The outlet’s fun Friday brunch is a busy affair, and prior reservations are a must to avoid disappointment. Great discounts are available for groups of 20 or more guests. Every Thursday night is ladies’ night at the venue, where girls can head to the bar and buy their wrist bands to take advantage of unlimited selected drinks for just BD4.

Call or WhatsApp 33 640-009.

Lounge manager Tony Curtis

Talia, Meera & Carolina

Khalid, Hadan & Nader

Musical Ice Show Ice Breakers figure skating club and BelCanto singing school performed a Million Dreams musical ice show at Funland ice skating rink.

Natallia & Michelle

Adel, George, Reine & Shazray

Performers at the show

58 July 2018

Polina

Badriya & Shaikha

Sophia, Amber, Olivia, Hannah & Sarah

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

DJ Night Coral Bay held a party featuring DJ Da Candy at its premises.

Diana & Reese

DJ Da Candy

Mohammed, Saud, Salman & Hercy

Alyssa & Paul

Kate, Sosa & Davina

Liz & Sophie

Sha, Fabio & Madan

Courtney, Mary & Nikki

Fabio, Madan & DJ Whisky

Namgay

Iris, Shanel & Soli

Sophie

Maryam, Kaushi & Shashi

Alyssa

Sports Bay Opening Coral Bay held a grand opening party of its new sports bar, Sports Bay Bahrain.

Madan & Sha

Darryl, Cole, Lisa, Kim, Allison, Nancy & Jack

60 July 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ramadan Media Event The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, hosted an Iftar for the media at its Masaya Pavillion.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Fatima & Fawzi

Sana, Arhaan, Aveer & Anisha

Maria, Pervaiz & Frosina

Anas

Natalie, Rehan, Amanda, Yasser & Angela

Abdulla

Ahsan, Joseph & Yasser

www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2018 61

DINING

this month

Frosty Delights, p65

American Taste, Irish Hospitality, p66

Upscale Drink and Dine Behnaz Sanjana appraised the contemporary cuisine at LNT Gastropub, and it came through with flying colours.

Game-Time Treats, p67

Super Summer Deals, p68

View more info online

62 July 2018

The iconic Lanterns Restaurant in Adliya is renowned for its ethnic Indian setting but, as you take the stairs that lead up to the LNT Gastropub, you’re in a different realm altogether. Upstairs it’s all grunge and industrial, in the most aesthetic way, of course.

My companion and I exchanged nostalgic notes seeing old cell phones and music systems adorning a part of the wall, while we sipped our coolers and browsed the newsletter-style menu. It is an extensive mix of sharing bites, sushi and sashimi, tidbits, salads, curries, pub staples and robust main course options.

First to arrive was the California Maki – crab stick, avocado and cucumber wrapped in the quintessential seaweed and sticky rice. I loved how the generously sprinkled tobiko gave a burst of saltiness with every bite. Close on its heels was the Crispy Peking Duck.

Slices of duck breast with a delicate crackly skin lay ready to be rolled up in mini pancakes. Juliennes of scallions and cucumber added a nice bite, and the accompanying hoisin sauce lent the meat a stickysweet appeal.

The Avocado and Quinoa Salad was an attractive heap of summer colours – the green hues of the mixed lettuce, avocado and edamame beans, faint blonde quinoa, slivers of fragrant orange and coral grilled crab sticks. Tossed in balsamic dressing, it was a nice palate cleanser. We chomped on a hearty plate of Pad Thai next, comprising rice noodles, shrimp, assorted vegetables and crushed peanuts for the

nuttiness – all spiked with just the right amount of chilli and lime.

Then arrived the Mushroom Pizza – unlike any other – hand tossed, coming piping hot out of chef Oliver Pallut’s kitchen. Taleggio cheese and the slender, soft base made in the original Italian way are the differentiating factors in this simple, but outstanding, culinary creation. Highly recommended, I say!

I thought the pizza would be my top dish of the day, but I was yet to be blown away by the taste of the Crispy Cigars. These deep-fried, crunchy, goldenbrown rolls were stuffed with shredded chicken in two distinct flavours – one half was the bright red Chicken Tandoori and the other had the creamy goodness of Chicken Malai. I can wax eloquent about this dish, but I’ll just say that my mouth is salivating with the very thought of it.

We finished our meal with the Chocolate Bomb. It is a dramatic little show when a bubbling caramel sauce is poured onto a chocolate sphere that melts onto its insides. What results is a fine gooey mess of sticky sauce, mascarpone cheese, white chocolate buttons, biscuity bits and nuts. Of course, we polished it off without much ado.

With lip-smacking delights and ample choice of cocktails, single malts, fine spirits, grapes, liqueurs and aperitifs, LNT Gastropub is keeping patrons hooked. But it is the exceptional, friendly service of the staff that makes it such a popular choice every day of the week.

Call 17 246 777. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof

Ahmed

Khalid

Bahrain Franchise and Dine Expo The Bahrain Franchise & Dine Expo 2018 press launch and Ghabga took place at The Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

HE Thanis Na Songkhla, Ahmed & Abdul Rahman

Nilmini, Brian & HE Dr A S U Mendis

Four Seasons Hotel Media Ghabga Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay hosted a Ghabga for the media at its premises.

Veronika, Josephine, Khalil, Eslam & Joy

Richard & Kim

Aija, Josie, Veronika & Priya

Hina, Sabine, Tulin & Georgina

Veronika & Ameena

To view more images, scan the QR code

The K Hotel Iftar The K Hotel hosted a corporate and media Iftar at Kolors restaurant.

Volker, Rehana, Nitai & Shivanand

Fuad & Raquel

Behnaz & Anuradha

New Band Launch The InterContinental Regency Bahrain launched its new resident band, ‘Deep Melody’, at Downtown Bar. Deep Melody band members

64 July 2018

Ahmed & David

Iryna & Raf

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining MAKI

Frosty Delights Stay cool with Maki restaurant’s exquisite summer thirst quenchers, including ice creams, sorbets and refreshing drinks.

Maki is renowned for its innovative contemporary Japanese cuisine, introducing iconic dishes like the Maki Maki, Fusion Temaki, Tara Maki, Matcha Yaki Udon and Akagome (red rice) Salmon Teppan.

In recent months, Maki has been living up to its ‘creative’ reputation by offering new, exclusive flavours with a range of maki rolls using housemade olive and tomato wraps – Tuna Oliva Maki and Hotate Tomate Maki.

A testament to Maki’s leadership is its holistic approach in giving attention to all aspects of the menu. Take Maki’s special ice creams, for example. Nothing will satisfy your ‘sweet tooth’ like a few bites of the Ebony and Ivory cup. If you are a chocolate-lover, you’ll surely get addicted to this dessert, which comprises three generous scoops of house-made chocolate, Oreo and vanilla bean ice cream, skillfully mixed with mini marshmallows, white and chocolate brownies, and drizzled with a special caramel topping.

Perfect for the summer is Ebony and Ivory’s sister dish, the Exotic Sorbet, which boasts three decadent scoops of special, house-made

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Virgin Electric Lemonade

Virgin Paradise Road

passion fruit, raspberry and mango ice creams, carefully mixed with fresh strawberry, kiwi, yuzu lemon peel and a special mango sauce.

Maki’s beverages are just as imaginative. The Virgin Electric Lemonade Ebony & Ivory Ice Cream Exotic Sorbet contains lemon juice, Blue Curacao syrup and 7UP, and comes in a tall glass with smoke plumes rising from it. Virgin Paradise Road is a super-refreshing drink that has orange, apple and mango juice, with mint, caramel and passion fruit syrup, and lime juice. Presented in a beautiful glass, this is one colourful drink.

Call 17 522-733, visit www.olivermaki.com or email maki.bahrain@ olivermaki.com

July 2018 65

dining BENNIGAN’S

American Taste, Irish Hospitality

Bennigan’s Amwaj

Call 16 030-104/05, Amwaj Islands, or 17 813-750, Juffair.

Bennigan’s offers great value and plenty of promos at both of its popular restaurants.

Widely renowned with locations around the world, Bennigan’s has always been the place where people go to enjoy great and unique American cuisine with a special brand of Irish hospitality, to spend time with friends or just to enjoy the relaxing, yet upbeat atmosphere.

The exciting and diverse menu offers a full line of entrées, starters, seafood, beef and chicken dishes, and mouth-watering desserts, not to mention enticing appetisers, soups and salads. The menu features something for everyone, great-sized portions, taste and value for money guaranteed.

Situated on the Al Safir Hotel and Tower site in Juffair, the restaurant attracts people from all walks of life. Whether you’re in the mood for a weekday lunch that’s good and fast, happy hour, a family dinner, drinks and appetisers with friends or getting something to go, Bennigan’s is the place that can satisfy all your moods.

Not to mention, Bennigan’s is the prime location to host your special days and get-togethers.

To bring that atmosphere closer to home, the restaurant’s home delivery offers a full menu direct to your doorstep. The delivery services now ensure that customers will not have to miss out on the great Bennigan’s fare. In addition, Bennigan’s Juffair restaurant received the Best North American Restaurant award in a recent magazine ceremony.

66 July 2018

Recently the company launched a new branch of Bennigan’s in Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj Islands, where the venue boasts both indoor and outdoor areas, making the most of the beautiful surroundings.

Bennigan’s Amwaj offers a range of promotions such as Karaoke Night every Monday from 8pm to midnight, Happy Hours from 3pm to 8pm every day of the week, Ladies Night every Tuesday and Thursday from 7pm onwards, in which women visitors get 50 per cent off their cocktails, Mucho Night every Wednesday from 6pm onwards with a special price on a selected mix, the Burn Your Bill promo every Thursday and Friday, and Family Friday from 9am to 6pm, giving family groups 25 per cent discount when they dine in.

Big Irish

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining

TALABAT

Game-Time Treats The most convenient way of satiating your taste buds while enjoying high-energy matches is to order food from Talabat.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The biggest event on the football calendar is here and Bahrain is reeling with excitement. No matter who you’re cheering for, the best way to enjoy the matches is with a group of friends and, of course, some fingerlicking good food.

No party is complete without the right kind of grub but gone are the days where you had to worry about hungry stomachs in the midst of all the excitement.

It’s now easy to host your own game night and invite all your footie-loving friends over. Here’s what to do: first, head to Talabat before the match and order your favourite meals and snacks. Whether you’re into wings, nachos or shawarmas, there’s something for everyone on this extensive online food ordering and delivery platform. If you’re looking for a good deal, you can filter the options to view restaurants with special offers delivering to you. Next, use half-time to order dessert. It doesn’t matter if you’re celebrating your team’s win or nursing a sore loss; the right dessert is the perfect ending to your match day.

Talabat is all about giving its clients utmost convenience. During Ramadan, the organisation launched several initiatives to make customers’ lives easier. The Ramadan Deals filter made it easy for all to find great deals on Ramadan meals. The team also did its bit for the community during The Holy Month by distributing meal boxes to serve those in need and

help people on the street break their fast.

The advent of Eid and the football season called for even more celebration. Talabat has been running several competitions on its social media channels, celebrating with fans by giving away fantastic prizes.

Talabat is a true homegrown success story, and a shining example for business start-ups in the Middle East, where it transformed the food ordering business when it launched in Kuwait in 2004. The aim was to create an online food ordering service that gives people access to restaurants in an easy and efficient manner, from the ease of wherever they are. With just a few clicks on the screen, customers can order food to be delivered to their location, from a wide variety of restaurants, ranging from global franchises to local concepts. The company’s success grew beyond Kuwait and expanded to the rest of the GCC region as well as Jordan, becoming the leading online food ordering and delivery platform. In 2017, its very own delivery service with live tracking was launched.

Talabat began its operations in Bahrain in 2012. Since then, it has become the home of takeaway in the Kingdom. So, go ahead and enjoy the football season the Talabat way!

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

July 2018 67

dining

Lemon Tree restaurant

RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA

Super Summer Deals Beat the heat with the irresistible summer promotions brought to you

by Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa.

68 July 2018

The Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa in Seef offers patrons a wide variety of leisure and dining choices. Its wellknown dining outlets offer deals on food and beverage that will put the fun back into the season.

Rasoi, the hotel’s Indian restaurant, is known to provide a contemporary fine-dining experience abundant with traditional flavours that this delectable cuisine offers. It takes you on a fantastic culinary journey that is rich with spices, lending a royal taste, texture and aroma to the dishes. Soothing music from a live ghazal (Indian poetry) ensemble creates the perfect atmosphere for guests to relish the sophisticated blend of flavours, which celebrate the vibrancy of Indian cuisine.

Another outlet that will leave you spoilt for choice is Lemon Tree, with its dynamic menu and signature casual dining style. Enjoy delicious breakfasts, Friday family brunch and quick nibbles every day at this bright eatery. Guests can relish a plethora of culinary choices at the impressive buffet and from the bustling, open and interactive kitchen. Lemon Tree appeals to a wide range of international tastes with palate-pleasing flavours and textures drawn from the very best of Mediterranean, Indian, Arabic and Asian cuisines.

Unwind and recharge from early afternoon to midnight at Red Lions Sports Lounge. With comfortably plush seating, an invigorating atmosphere and massive flat screens strategically placed for enhanced sports viewing all around the bar, guests can enjoy the finest in food and beverage at this lounge. Refine your mastery at the pool table between cheering for games or unwind with sports talk for a truly relaxed time with friends or colleagues. The

Ramee Grand Rasoi

venue is ideal for small private gatherings as well.

The offers available at Red Lions Sports Lounge are perfect for the football season. Make the most of World Cup fever with the ‘Let’s Get Fizzy and Munch the Whole Night’ promotion, where you can select food and drinks from the special menu. It puts all the more fun into cheering for your favourite team.

Turkish eatery, Antalya is a newly opened, spacious restaurant that boasts contemporary interiors and stunning views from the outdoor lounge.

Everything is prepared using fresh, top-quality produce, providing subtle and well-balanced flavours.

All popular meze items and grills are available.

Everything is tasty and reasonably priced, paticularly considering the overall quality of what you get.

At Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, emphasis is laid on attention to detail and hospitality of the highest standard. The establishment aims to exceed guests’ expectations and provide them with a memorable time on each visit.

Call 17 111-999. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining

HIDDEN GEMS IN BAHRAIN

LUMEE STREET CAFÉ

by BILL GRIEVE

J

ackpot! If there was an Aladdin’s cave of food it would be Lumee at Al Aali Shopping Complex, in Seef.

‘Lumee’ is Bahraini slang for ‘lemons or limes’ and denotes a fullness of taste that will make your mouth water.

The vast menu includes tantalising breakfast; classic cold and hot sharing plates; Lumee salads; Pita Toasties (white or brown pita bread with root vegetable crisps); Charcoal Grilled Cheese (with root vegetable crisps); fatayer fresh from the oven; Street Grills (incredibly charcoal grilled and tucked in fresh flatbread plus choice of side salad); meat dishes galore; poultry dishes – divine; seafood out of this world; choice of garden-fresh vegetables; a wide range of side dishes; as well as cakes and desserts that will have you going back for more.

Wani & HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof

Crowne Plaza Iftar Crowne Plaza Bahrain hosted an Iftar at its premises.

Drinks are equally impressive, including cold pressed juices from vegetables and fruit; fresh Laban Shakes that will make you quiver; Sharbat Lumee (lemonades to quench any thirst); and fresh fruit and vegetable juices to meet almost any desire.

Lumee is located on the ground floor of the mall, in a market-style courtyard with traditional cloths fluttering gently at roof height. It can seat over 70 patrons, has abundant car parking and the kitchen is visible to all guests. The staff are prompt, pleasant and courteous, and the food is absolutely stunning.

It opens daily from 8.30am to 11.30pm.

Call 17 434-300 or 17 333-747.

HE Thanis Na Songkhl

Aderin

To view more images, scan the QR code

David & Gilles

Via, Yasmeen & Reymond

Kathy, Eyad & Priya

70 July 2018

Anahita & Mohammed

Ragesh & Swathi

Ramzi & Sheena

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

MAKE THE CUT Let your weekend be fit for a king. Indulge in celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck’s favourite dishes for brunch at his steakhouse — CUT by Wolfgang Puck, at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. This exclusive buffet is laid out every Friday, from 12.30pm to 3pm. The meal costs BD24++ per person, including soft beverages, or BD34++ per person, including an extensive drinks package. Ladies can opt for the beverage package for just BD24++.

The restaurant will remain closed for lunch from July 16 until September 2. Dinner will be served in the regular hours.

Call 17 115-044.

TIME FOR LUNCH The signature Italian restaurant, Primavera, at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, offers a two-course business set lunch by two-Michelin-starred chef Oliver Glowig.

Diners can choose one starter or one first course and one main, or one main and dessert, and enjoy a relaxing lunch with beautiful views over the landscaped gardens and the poolside. The offer runs from Sunday to Thursday, from noon to 3pm, and is priced at BD9.500++.

Call 17 586-499.

ALLURINGLY ARABIC Tapas Restaurant & Bar at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa hosts the Angham Arabic brunch every Saturday from 11am to 5pm.

Relish this delectable spread for a truly memorable Saturday afternoon.

Enjoy the best sea view in town and savour a wide range of authentic Arabic dishes from this iconic, award-winning restaurant. Your taste buds will surely be left satisfied as you unwind and order your favourite shisha. This is a luxurious brunch experience like no other in Bahrain.

The meal costs BD25 inclusive of soft beverages and shisha, or BD29 inclusive of selected drinks and shisha.

Call 17 636-363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

SIZZLING HOT Revel in a stylish, yet rustic, barbecue experience on the terrace of Baharat Restaurant at Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain, for some mid-week food fun.

The outlet gears up for Barbeque Night every Wednesday, showcasing succulent grilled ribs and Wagyu prime rib steak, amongst other lipsmacking dishes. Live music from the vibrant duo, Deux Sons, heightens the whole experience. The buffet is priced at BD18, including soft drinks and water, or BD24 including selected free flow of beverages. Guests are welcome from 7pm to 11pm.

Call 17 171-144.

July 2017 71

tablehopping

THE FRESHEST CATCH MAKE THE MOST OF SUMMER The Sheraton Bahrain Hotel adds more fun to the season with its fantastic culinary offering for aficionados of fine gourmet fare. An international buffet will be laid out for lunch and dinner every day at Al Safir restaurant, at a special summer price of BD10++ per person. Timing for lunch is from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, and dinner will be served from 7.30pm to 11.30pm.

The outlet accepts The Entertainer voucher (buy 1, get 1 free offer). This rate does not apply on theme nights or with special offers.

Call 17 533-533.

Experience a unique medley of super-succulent seafood delicacies every Monday during Seafood Night at Al Murjan Ballroom at the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain, from 7pm to 11pm. What makes it an ideal night out for seafood lovers is the best selection of popular and traditional seafood dishes. The buffet serves 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. Seafood Night is priced at BD24 for the buffet, or BD29 per person including unlimited selected grape, malt and soft drinks.

Call 17 460-017.

JAPANESE DELIGHTS BE AN EARLY BIRD Trattoria Italian restaurant at Wyndham Garden Manama Hotel in Juffair has launched its unmissable promotion – the Early Diner Special and Happy Hours. The deal gives a whopping 50 per cent discount on all items on the food menu, every day from 5pm to 7pm. Happy Hours between 7pm and 9pm daily give guests a 20 per cent discount on the beverage menu.

Selected grape can be ordered at special discounted prices.

Call 66 316-666.

At Reef Resort’s contemporary Japanese restaurant, Tokyo Reef, flaunts a menu rich in creativity, history and Japanese culture. The vibrant energy of this restaurant exudes from the bar, which serves freshly prepared sushi, sashimi and maki, in addition to other authentic Japanese fare. Indulge in a Chef’s Special Set Menu with a selection of drinks every Wednesday and Thursday over dinner. Watch as your chef prepares sushi and sashimi right in front of your eyes. This dining experience is priced at BD15++ per person and includes a selection of beverages.

Call 13 110-110.

BEAT THE BEAST Harvesters Pub & Terrace at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain is proud to serve the famous camel burger, priced at BD8.410.

Lovingly created by the chefs, you can enjoy this delicacy along with a generous serving of French fries and coleslaw.

Ask to be part of the ‘Beast Burger’ challenge, where the test is to devour the dish within a stipulated period of time.

Not only do you get the meal free if you win, but you also go up on the wall of fame and get a free camel burger T-shirt. The challenge is open from 11am to 9pm.

Call 17 531-122.

72 July 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

A LAID-BACK SATURDAY Get ready for a new week ahead with a relaxing time at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay’s international restaurant – Bahrain Bay Kitchen. The brunch, served every Saturday, offers a wide selection of Arabic favourites such as lamb ouzi, cold mezes and much more. It’s the perfect offer for you and your family, complete with shisha on the terrace. The brunch costs BD16++ including soft beverages. Shisha costs an additional BD12++. The buffet is open from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

Call 17 115-500.

WELCOME THE WEEKEND If you’re looking for a happening place to celebrate the start of a joyous weekend, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain’s Thursday Night Out at Al Murjan Ballroom is the perfect venue. Relish prime US beef, unlimited exotic cocktails, superior malt beverages, grape and gourmet food cooked to perfection every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm. The evening is priced at BD32 per person, including unlimited beverages. Enjoy these culinary delights along with the cool tunes from the resident DJ’s console that will set the mood for an eventful night out.

Call 17 460-017.

BAKED GOODIES Furn Bakery at The Westin City Centre Bahrain provides a selection of delicious cakes crafted by skilled culinary hands, available all day. Enjoy the unique ambience that sports the Rotunda (circular on-site oven) and the day’s specials on display. Customers can savour the outlet’s Grab & Go offer on morning coffee and croissant of their choice, for only BD3. A variety of the venue’s signature milkshakes can be whipped up to cool you down, all day, every day. Guests enjoy a 50 per cent discount on the entire range of fine breads after 6pm.

Call 17 171-441.

LIMITLESS SEAFOOD At Reef Resort’s Pool Delight restaurant hosts an unlimited Seafood Barbecue Buffet every Friday, from 7pm to 11pm. The table will be replete with Oriental and continental flavours, and the freshest catch from the ocean, making for a truly tantalising dining experience.

Weekenders can revel in the chilled-out tunes from Beats Zone Band, as they savour the taste of the sea. The buffet is priced at BD18++ per person. Special group packages are also available on request.

Call 13 110-110.

BRUNCH BY NIGHT El Dorado Grill – By Big Texas Barbeque, located at the Dragon Hotel & Resort, Amwaj Islands, invites islanders to a unique Thursday Night Brunch. What awaits guests is a smorgasbord of seafood delicacies, authentic Tex-Mex dishes and live grill and pasta stations.

Doors open at 7pm and brunch runs until midnight. The meal is priced at BD25 for anyone above 15 years of age. Military personnel, flight crew, teachers and those working with Saudi Aramco pay BD23 on furnishing a valid ID. Kids between the ages of nine and 15 dine at BD12.500 and those below nine years dine for free. Free shuttle service is available from Juffair to Amwaj and back.

Call 16 039-800. www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? Every Day Event? Coffee and Pastries Bundle Offer Venue? The Deli, Wyndham Garden Manama Enjoy the perfect match of brews and bites (coffee along with croissants or cakes or pastries) every day for only BD2.800++.

Call 66 316-666.

When? Every Day Event? Coffee and Cake Special Venue? Chocolaterie (Lobby Café), At Reef Resort Enjoy coffee and cake at just BD4 per person from 4pm-6pm as you take in the panoramic harbour views from this outlet, known for its signature teas, coffees, pastries and delectable hand-made chocolates.

Call 13 110-110.

When? Ongoing until September 31 Event? Celebrate Your Birthday Venue? Ritz Gourmet Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Birthday dinner, lunch and afternoon tea set menus are available and include a customised birthday cake.

The special menu is available for a minimum of two to a maximum of 10 guests.

Call 17 586-499.

When? Every Sunday to Thursday Event? Business Lunch Venue? Al Murjan Ballroom, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Enjoy business lunch served from 12.30pm-4pm, offering international cuisine and a live cooking station, priced at BD15.200 per person.

Call 17 460-017.

When? Every Monday Event? Ladies Day Venue? Tapas Bar and Restaurant, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Ladies enjoy 50 per cent off throughout the day on delicious dishes and drinks, with live Cuban entertainment, overlooking the magnificent Arabian Gulf.

Call 17 636-363.

When? Every Friday Event? Absolutely Fabulous Friday Brunch Venue? The Harvesters Pub & Terrace, The Crowne Plaza Bahrain Discover a fun brunch with good food and great vibes from 12.30pm-4pm for BD31, with unlimited selected beverages.

Call 17 531-122.

When? Every Saturday Event? Ladies Night Venue? Blue Moon Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Ladies enjoy two free drinks every Saturday from 6pm to midnight.

Call 17 115-000.

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marketplace MIDDLE EAST GROUP OF HOSPITALS AND MEDICAL CENTERS

Bone Health Lifestyle Tips

Dr Harish C Talan

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that usually affects older people.

Dr Harish C Talan, orthopaedics consultant at Middle East Hospital, explains how to tackle and treat it.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become brittle, thin and easily breakable, causing them to lose strength density. It causes fractures of spine, hip or wrist, which can occur from a fall or sometimes a minor trauma. It can also lead to compression fractures in the spine, resulting in a loss of height and neck, as well as slight curving of the upper back.

Osteoporosis is more prevalent in women than men; small body frame, old age and reduced sex hormone levels, with low calcium intake increase the risk of the disease.

Symptoms and Risks There are no symptoms in the early stage of the condition. However, menopausal women may experience generalised weakness, and those on corticosteroids for a long time, or with a family history of osteoporosis, are at a high risk and should go for screening.

Unchangeable risks: females more susceptible than males, old age, small body frame, and being Caucasian and Asian, who have a higher risk of developing the condition.

Take Actions to Lead a Bone-Healthy Lifestyle If you have any of the risk factors, talk to a doctor and seek a bone-health assessment. Follow these simple tips to reduce the risks of osteoporosis: • Increase physical activity to 30 to 40 minutes, five days a week.

• Ensure a nutritious, balanced diet with enough calcium.

• Spend more time outdoors to get vitamin D. • If smoking, stop!

• Drink alcohol moderately.

74 July 2018

Bone fracture of the spine

Osteoporosis can be confirmed by taking a bone density test as well as biochemical tests for vitamin D, calcium, TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and PTH (parathyroid hormone).

When to Consider Treatment It depends on your bone density tests.

• T-scores of -1.0 and above: No osteoporosis medicine required.

• T-scores between -1.0 and -2.5: Take osteoporosis medicine when there is a risk factor.

• T-scores below -2.5: Take osteoporosis medicine.

The One-minute Osteoporosis Risk Test can also help you understand the status of your bone health.

Vitamin D is essential for good bone health, which can be achieved by sun exposure for 20 minutes per day, four to five days a week. Normal intake of 600800 IU per day from food and supplements is enough.

Exercise, too, plays a vital role, and should include weight-bearing exercises, swimming, cycling and cardio training exercise.

Middle East Hospital is located in Segaya.

Call 17 362-233 or follow on Facebook: Middle East Hospital and Instagram: @mehospitalbh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

CORAL BAY

A Sporty Destination The most recent addition at one of the island’s favourite beach venues, Sports Bay Bahrain is a new experience that’s bound to prove popular.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sports Bay is located at the island’s favourite leisure resort, Coral Bay, and represents a unique opportunity to enjoy a high-energy, classy, sports-themed setting that offers appetising international cuisine.

The Sports Bay concept relies on providing an atmosphere in which guests can relax while watching a sporting event in a comfortable environment. It strives to be the premier sports-themed bar on the island, offering a unique beachside environment.

A chilled-out spot by the water where you can enjoy drinks with friends while listening to the hottest beats mixed by live local and international DJs, Sports Bay aims to step ahead of the competition and wants guests to have more fun during their leisure time.

A spokesman says: “We combine menu selection, atmosphere, ambience and service to create a sense of ‘place’ in order to reach our goal of overall value in a dining-entertainment experience.”

Sports Bay is equipped with 10-plus large, HD flatscreen TVs which are situated to make sure you’re never far away from the action, plus there are darts boards and a pool table too.

Open daily from 9am till 2am, Sports Bay also offers an international à la carte menu.

Located on the calm and peaceful shores of the Arabian Gulf, nestled within Coral Bay, it is an experience just waiting for you. Explore and discover the location with all the exoticism of a tropical island but all the convenience of a top-of-the-range resort.

Live it up and escape to Bahrain’s favourite leisure resort, Coral Bay.

Call 17 312-700 or 35 431-458 or visit www. coralbaybh.com Facebook: sportsbaybahrain intagram: @sports_bay_bahrain / www.miamievents.bh July 2018 75

marketplacebusinessbites

New Top Man at Sofitel

Upgrade for Ibn Khuldoon The signing of a major financing agreement with Kuwait Finance House – Bahrain (KFH-Bahrain) has given the green light for construction of new buildings at Ibn Khuldoon National School.

The signing ceremony was attended by Farouk Yousef Almoayyad, chairman of the school’s board of trustees, and Abdulhakeem Al Khayyat, MD and CEO of KFH-Bahrain, as well as other representatives of both the school and bank.

Ibn Kuldoon, which was launched in 1983, plans to construct new buildings and facilities for its kindergarten and primary sections, including a theatre, science and

technology laboratories, educational halls, a modern media centre, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, prayer rooms, a cafeteria, underground parking space and more.

Farouk Almoayyad says: “The school has been continuously developing its facilities since its launch 35 years ago.

We are delighted to be working with KFH-Bahrain to continue this process, and we appreciate their support and thank them for their efforts. In addition to our agreement with the bank, the building construction was signed by the Mohamed Salahuddin Consulting Engineering Bureau.”

BMMI Receives International Award Bahrain-based BMMI received the prestigious Vanguard Award, the top honour bestowed by the International Stability Operations Association (ISOA), recognising its work in some of the world’s most challenging areas.

BMMI operates throughout the Middle East and Africa, in areas considered to be contingency zones and regions where stability operations take place, including providing medical logistics services from Djibouti, life support services in South Sudan and food procurement and logistics services in Iraq, in addition to operations in Ghana, Kenya, Sudan, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

ISOA is a global association of private sector and non-governmental organisations that is dedicated to the establishment, support and good conduct of international stability operations. The association and its members are committed to raising the standards of the stability operations industry to ensure sound and ethical professionalism and transparency in the conduct of peacekeeping, post-conflict reconstruction and disaster relief activities.

Robert Smith, chief operating officer, contracting & logistics, of the BMMI Group, accepted the award on BMMI’s behalf, saying: “We are honoured to be presented with the Vanguard Award. To be nominated and awarded alongside such notable organisations working in some of the most challenging operational environments is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams working in remote operations around Africa and the Middle East.”

76 July 2018

Mehdi Hanayen has been announced as the new general manager of the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, after having joined the property as director of operations in 2017.

In his new role, Mehdi will bring his strong attention to detail and his years of experience of leading and motivating teams to drive hotel performance. He will report to Sami Nasser, chief operating officer, luxury brands, Middle East.

Mehdi first joined AccorHotels in 2008, working for Sofitel El Gezirah in Cairo, Egypt, as food and beverage manager till 2011. He then moved to the UAE as assistant director of food and beverage at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche. Promotions saw him rise to the position of executive assistant manager by 2015. In 2017, he moved to Bahrain and took over the responsibility of managing the property as acting GM in early 2018.

Mehdi holds a Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, finance and revenue management, from the Glion Institute of Higher Education, in Bulle, Switzerland, and a Master’s in hospitality management from Cornell University.

Gupta Steps Up Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons (YKA) has announced the appointment of Alok Gupta as its new chief executive officer (CEO). He will be overseeing the company’s operations across its diverse sectors, which include automotive, heavy equipment, electronics and home appliances, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, industrial and building systems, taxi services, delivery services, toys and restaurants.

Alok Gupta, a qualified chartered accountant, has more than 20 years of work experience in various industries. He joined YKA in 2006 and served as the group chief financial officer. www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Record-Breaking Bite A giant Oreo biscuit, weighing in at a massive 73.5kg, earned Mondelez Bahrain Biscuits a Guinness World Record for the largest ever cream-filled biscuit.

The previous record-holder was baked in 2011 and weighed 28.24kg. The record-breaking Oreo cookie was proudly made by the Bahrain team using Oreo’s regular dough and cream. It boasted a diameter of 74cm and a thickness of 15cm.

The official record-breaking attempt, which was certified by Guinness World Records officials, was planned to coincide with the official inauguration of the Kingdom’s USD90 million, state-of-the-art Mondelez International biscuit factory, which has a production capacity of 45,000 tons per year, producing iconic Power Brands, including Oreo cookies and Barni soft cakes.

Drilling on New Wells Exploitation of the Kingdom’s recently discovered additional mineral resources will begin with drilling of two wells in the Khaleej Al Bahrain oil and gas field, due to begin in October by US contractor Halliburton. National Oil and Gas Authority of Bahrain (Noga) chairman, Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa outlined the plans in a keynote speech to the American Chamber of Commerce in Bahrain saying the wells are part of a research and evaluation phase set to end in June next year.

Speaking about work to claim the new discovery of 80 billion barrels of unconventional oil and up to 20 trillion cubic feet of tight gas in shallow-waters off the country’s west coast, Shaikh Mohammed said international partners may be selected in December 2019 for the production phase. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ritz-Carlton Gets New Boss Bernard de Villèle has been announced as the new general manager at The RitzCarlton, Bahrain, coming all the way from the St Regis Mexico City.

Bernard’s career began in the hospitality industry more than 35 years ago after graduating from the worldrenowned École Hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland with a degree in hotel management. His first role was as food and beverage manager at the Hilton Strasbourg. Since then, he has crossed multiple continents with tenures in award-winning properties and senior management and executive roles for St Regis, Four Seasons, Hilton,

InterContinental (IHG), Orient Express Hotels and many others.

Gaining the attention of the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences in 2003, one of his most honorable mentions to date was being awarded as one of the finest hoteliers worldwide. In January 2014, he became GM of the St Regis Mexico City, where he helped position the hotel as a landmark destination in Latin America. In this role, he led the team to achieve many top honours, including Robb Report’s “Top 100 Hotels of the World” in 2015 and TripAdvisor’s “Traveller’s Choice Awards, No.1 Hotel in Mexico”.

Wyndham Splits Business Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has completed its spin-off from Wyndham Worldwide Corporation, which has been renamed Wyndham Destinations, Inc. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is the world’s largest hotel franchisor and a leading provider of hotel management services, with a portfolio of 20 well-recognised lodging brands and nearly 9,000 franchised hotels in more than 80 countries, including the Wyndham Garden and Wyndham Grand in Bahrain.

“We’re thrilled to begin a new era in which we will continue to build upon our powerful asset-light and fee-based business model that is driven by an exceptional portfolio of market-leading economy and midscale brands,” says Geoff Ballotti, chief executive officer of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “As the world’s largest hotel franchisor with a

proven ability to create value through acquisitions and organic growth, we will focus on strengthening our industryleading loyalty and technology platforms to drive more direct distribution to our owners and franchisees at a lower cost, while serving everyday travellers exceptionally well.”

July 2018 77

marketplacebusinessbites

BAC Official Goes Global Hind Mahmood, vice-president of human resources at the Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), has been elected as second vice-chair of the Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific Regional HR Committee. Her appointment is a landmark accomplishment and is a first for any BAC employee.

ACI is a non-profit organisation representing the world’s airports. It works with global aviation organisations such as ICAO and IATA to develop international standards, policies and

recommended practices for airports.

Hind will help ACI’s HR committee to work towards its goals, which are to encourage the exchange of best practices among the ACI Asia-Pacific member airports and speed up their growth through the advancement of human resources. She attended a committee meeting at the 13th ACI AsiaPacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition, which took place in Narita, Japan, where experts delivered presentations on the field’s latest challenges, trends and developments.

Chartered Accountants’ Seminar Engineers to the Fore The new board of directors of the Bahrain Society of Engineers (BSE), was received by Minister of Electricity and Water Affairs, HE Dr Abdulhussain Mirza. The board is headed by Dr Ziaa Abdulaziz Tawfiqi, who was accompanied by vice president Abdulnabi Al-Sabah.

The minister wished the new board success in development of Bahrain’s engineering sector.

He praised the role of the society in Bahrain’s comprehensive development and its support for plans and programmes, saying that it could make profound contributions to the growth of the engineering sector and meet the needs of Bahrainis in the field.

Dr Mirza gave the visitors a presentation on Bahrain’s sustainable energy and discussed the plan for an international conference on sustainable energy in January 2019, to be held under his patronage. Experts in the field from the world over will exchange experiences and expertise on the latest technologies.

A technical seminar on cyber security marked the celebrations of CA Day at the Bahrain Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (BCICAI). The seminar was delivered by Navneet Sharma, Grant Thornton Bahrain’s director of IT advisory and cyber security services.

BCICAI’s outgoing chairman, Uday Shanbhag, said on this occasion: “This day also marks the beginning of the platinum jubilee celebrations of ICAI [BCICAI’s parent institute established in 1949 as a statutory body under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949 enacted by the Indian parliament]. We are proud members of a professional body whose values and standards we represent and uphold. We are happy to be of service to the Bahrain community as well.”

An election meeting was recently held to choose the BCICAI’s new executive committee for 2018-19, which saw Sridhar Seetapathy being elected the new chairman. He will take the reins from August 1.

New F-16 Coming to Bahrain Following an agreement with the US Government in the last quarter of 2017, Bahrain has become the first country to procure the latest version of the F-16 fighter jet.

A contract has been awarded to Lockheed Martin Corp from the US Government to produce 16 new F-16 Block 70 aircraft for the Royal Bahraini Air Force. More than 4,600 F-16s have been sold to 28 customers around the world to date and around 3,000 of the aircraft are currently functional with 25 air forces. The F-16 Block 70 features advanced 78 July 2018

avionics and sensors including a proven Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, an updated cockpit, advanced weaponry, conformal fuel tanks, an automatic ground collision avoidance system, an advanced engine and an extended structural service life of 12,000 hours.

“We value our long-standing relationship with the Kingdom of Bahrain and look forward to beginning production activities on their Block 70 aircraft,” says Robert Harward, Lockheed Martin’s chief executive for the Middle East. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Amal & HE Nor Huda Ahmad

Al Hawaj Ghabga Al Hawaj held a Ramadan Ghabga at its premises in Budaiya.

Abdul Majid Al Hawaj, Maysa, Hanan & Abdul Wahab Al Hawaj

HE Abdulla bin Rashid Al Mudailwi

HE Hideki Ito

Dr Jawad Al Hawaj

Dr Abdulla Al Hawaj

Amal & Ghada

HE Alfred Simms-Protz, Abdul Wahab Al Hawaj & Perwin

Ameena & Kareem Jawad

LET US

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Tel.: 17 813 777 Ext. 239

bystander@redhousemarketing.com bahrainthismonth July 2018 79

lifestylewhat'snew

What’s New A Lucky Twist

Edited by Apple Sharma

Van Cleef & Arpels’ Sweet Charms Pavée timepiece is an iconic watch in pink gold with a bezel set with round and baguette-cut diamonds and baguette-cut pink sapphires. On this limited edition, the emblematic rotating charm is revamped as a pompon, a reference to the couture theme, dear to the maison.

Available at Van Cleef & Arpels Boutique, Moda Mall.

A Fiery Scent Lancôme's newest fragrance La Nuit Trésor à la Folie is madly opulent like a blazing red diamond. Made with dazzling raw materials, it’s an eau de parfum with a burning heart of rose essence, inflamed by the sensuous addiction of bourbon vanilla and intensified by smouldering patchouli essence.

Available at leading retailers.

Sweet Dreams!

Enjoy unique and tranquil moments with L’OCCITANE Pillow Mist. Featuring a 100 per cent natural scent, it can be sprayed in your bedroom to create a calming atmosphere that promotes relaxation and wellbeing. It contains essential oils of lavender, bergamot, mandarin, sweet orange and geranium.

Available at L’OCCITANE, City Centre Bahrain.

Happy Days As of this month, 100 per cent of Chopard watches and jewellery will be produced in ethical gold. With its new interpretations of twist bangles and twist rings, Happy Hearts is the very first collection marking the start of this new era. Cuff bracelets, crafted in 18-carat rose or white gold, are graced with two hearts at each end, as are the Happy Hearts twist rings.

Available at Chopard Boutique, Moda Mall.

Arm Candy Following a number of one-of-a-kind pieces, CH Carolina Herrera’s most whimsical bag collection, Bimba, introduces five new special edition bags to celebrate the collection’s 15th anniversary. The brand’s most distinctive symbols, the toucan, polka dots and the jasmine flower, are presented in playful ways, resulting in handcrafted patterns brimming with colours and the artisans’ personal stamp on each bag.

Available at Carolina Herrera, City Centre Bahrain.

80 July 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Quintessentially British The blazer is a key item for Hackett London this summer. Offering an array of striped blazers, from the boldest pattern to the finer and more discreet, the range is available in classic navy, mint, pale blue and cream.

Available at Hackett London, City Centre Bahrain.

Nail Intervention

The Urban Jungle Montblanc gives its signature Sartorial leather goods line a trendy design twist with a daring camouflage pattern, printed on Saffiano leather. The capsule collection features two colour variations of the print, in shades of grey or blue.

Each of the eight new pieces is designed to take you from meetings to workouts, with simple sophistication, smart functionality and a touch of street style.

Available at Montblanc, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

Flawless manicures start with healthy nails and cuticles. Sally Hansen’s Complete Care 7-in-1 Nail Treatment helps restore dry, brittle nails, making them visibly healthier and beautiful.

After just three days, they look shinier, stronger, megamoisturised and brighter with ridges filled.

Available at leading retailers.

Island Escape A Signature Range Ghawali offers a modern interpretation of Oriental fragrances, ouds, oils, bokhours, and bath and body products. Experts in layering, Ghawali’s products are specially created to be worn together. Paying tribute to the region, the brand uses the world’s finest ingredients, including amber, Damask rose, sandalwood and ouds.

Available at Ghawali, City Centre Bahrain. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Get summer ready with MICHAEL Michael Kors’ Malibu collection.

Capture the effortless charm of coastal living with Fisher espadrilles or wedges adorned with palm leaf embroidery. Pair them with midi skirts or flowy dresses and accessorise with a Malibu tote, woven from natural straw.

Available at Michael Kors, City Centre Bahrain.

July 2018 81

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

Cygnett GoStick Featuring a universal yet secure L-shaped cradle for your smartphone or GoPro camera, the GoStick lets you comfortably trigger your shutter button with a remote control that neatly attaches to the stick, or hide it in your hand for professional-style shots.

The collapsible tripod enables hands-free photos anytime, anyplace.

Available at www.amazon.com

Insect Zapper Much more convenient than covering yourself in mosquito spray and lighting citronella candles, this sleek-looking, mushroom-shaped insect zapper will do the trick. It glows like a nightlight, but is less noisy than the traditional humming insect lights.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

iGrill 2 Bluetooth BBQ Thermometer There’s no more need for old-fashioned pop-up thermometers in your grilled chops, or worse, guessing when your meat is done (and hoping it’s not overcooked).

The iGrill 2 comes complete with all the bells and whistles: multiple prongs for gauging different meat temperatures at once and Bluetooth smartphone compatibility for checking on your steaks from across the yard.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

Outdoor Pizza Oven Grillbot Automatic Grill Cleaner One of the most annoying summer chores is cleaning the grill after a barbecue. Sometimes it seems like no matter what type of brush you use, clean-up takes more elbow grease and time than you want to devote. But what if you could get a robot to do it? The Grillbot is a charming, automatic grill-cleaning robot that does a better job, and in half the time.

Available at www.amazon.com

82 July 2018

Instead of scratching your head trying to balance the barbecue outside and the pizzas in your standard kitchen oven inside, check out this portable outdoor pizza oven. It cooks pizzas in 15 minutes or less and allows you to take a break from hamburgers and hot dogs.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylegadgets

Portable Icemaker One of the most tiresome chores associated with outdoor parties is the ice run; someone has to run to the store to buy bags of ice, which only end up sweating and melting in the summer heat. This portable icemaker eliminates that frustration; it makes ice cubes in two sizes, and creates a batch in just six minutes.

Available at www.amazon.com

Popdrive Not only does the Popdrive store up to 1GB of your important data and music, it also opens drinks!

Attach it to a belt buckle or your car keys, and you’ll never go thirsty during those summer parties.

Available at www.amazon.com

Solar Beach Tote A solar-powered bag to charge your gadgets will definitely come in handy no matter where you are under the sun. The Solar Beach Tote features a high-tech flexible solar panel that generates 6.3 watts of power to charge a mobile phone, MP3 player, digital camera, or any other small electronic device on the go.

Available at www.amazon.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Wild Planet’s Aqua Light Mask The Aqua Light Mask from Wild Planet features built-in dual lights to see under water at night. It’s also waterproof down to 35 feet, and the adjustable straps will fit both adults and children alike.

Available at www.amazon.com

Star Wars Geeki Tikis – Series 1 Perfect for refreshing summer cocktails, get your geek on with these super cute Star Wars Geeki Tikis. Drink with your favourite characters, from Boba Fett to Chewbacca, Darth Vader, R2-D2, a Stormtrooper or Yoda. These ceramic mugs work great as decorations too.

Available at www. thinkgeek.com

July 2018 83

lifestylemusic

Christina Aguilera – Liberation What’s the story?

Liberation arrives in 2018, six years after Lotus, by far the longest stretch of time between Christina Aguilera albums.

During that hiatus, Aguilera wasn’t exactly in hibernation but she wasn’t prominent, taking a couple of seasons off from the televised singing competition, The Voice, to raise a child and spending as much time on-screen as she did on-stage when she re-emerged in the middle of the 2010s. Aguilera may have been omnipresent in showbiz but she was largely absent from the pop charts.

Worth a listen?

Liberation seems to be constructed as a response to Lotus’ failure, as it finds Aguilera abandoning shiny hooks for hip-hop beats and smouldering ballads. Despite the fleeting presence of Kanye West and Anderson Paak, who are both credited as producers, Liberation isn’t a record designed for the clubs.

Much of the album is devoted to moody moments of selfreflection and anthems of empowerment, giving the distinct impression that Aguilera is figuring out how to mature within the confines of chart-oriented music. Certainly, Christina spends a fair amount of time singing about lasting love and motherhood.

Verdict: A strong return to form.

Shorts

Mike Shinoda – Post Traumatic Following the sudden loss of his friend and Linkin Park co-vocalist Chester Bennington in July 2017, Mike Shinoda turned to music to process his grief. The resulting effort, Post Traumatic, is a cathartic song arc that carries Shinoda through darkness and into light, offering hope and counselling to himself, his band, and their legions of fans.

From the condolence voicemails that end opening track Place to Start to the journallike account of Over Again, Post Traumatic is his journey through the stages of loss, grief, and healing.

84 July 2018

Melody’s Echo Chamber – Bon Voyage

5 Seconds of Summer – Youngblood

The whole album is constructed out of sudden shocks, simmering surprises and lots of “Wow, what was that?” moments.

Sweeping psych-pop songs are interrupted by short blasts of sampled breakbeats, spoken word bits burst through the haze, while the guitarist suddenly starts playing like he has four arms, and there’s never a moment of cliché or rote following of trends.

Dropping all of the rambunctious energy and emo-pop trappings that found them labelled a punk boy band when they first broke through while on tour with One Direction in 2013, Australia’s 5 Seconds of Summer instead embrace a slick dance-pop sound on their third album, 2018’s Youngblood. It’s a transition they’ve been hinting at ever since their 2015 sophomore album, Sounds Good Feels Good.

It’s a useful sound for them to embrace, and helps position them nicely as a lighter version of Imagine Dragons. There are plenty of hooks here and a growing maturity in lyrics. www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylegames

Unravel Two Verdict: A fun experience to share with friends.

Rating:

What is it?

Yarny, the tiny red woollen character, returns in an innovative single player and co-op puzzle platformer. This sequel centres on the bond between two Yarnys, and can be played as a single player or local co-op drop-in/ drop-out experience.

Gameplay

Yarny’s abilities have carried over from the original. He can swing across gaps, rappel down walls, ascend cliff faces, lasso distant objects and, by tying knots, create bridges, pulleys and trampolines.

There are no major new abilities to single out, but the addition of a second Yarny adds plenty of depth to these existing ones. For instance, either character can now function as a moveable anchor point, allowing the other Yarny to rappel, ascend or swing across otherwise impassable gaps. At its best, it feels like you’re mountaineering through the undergrowth.

Platforming is also improved. Yarny feels more responsive, and it’s a good thing, too, since there are more sections that demand precision control.

Vampyr

Prowl the disease-ridden streets in Vampyr, a darkly atmospheric action RPG. Set in early 20th century Britain during a bout of the lethal Spanish flu, the streets of London are crippled by disease, violence and fear. In a completely disorganised and ghostly city, those who are either fools, desperate, or unlucky enough to walk the streets lay prey to Britain’s most elusive predators: the vampires. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Graphics

The game once again takes Yarny through verdant forests and slightly more grim urban settings. Behind Yarny, in the background of levels, an ambiguous story plays out featuring shadowy manifestations of past events.

Levels are simply beautiful. Yarny’s tiny stature, and the clever use of forced perspective and photorealistic environments, makes you pay attention to the little details. Whether it’s the spongy moss Yarny has to wade through or the puddles that feel like swimming pools, every texture feels more detailed and engrossing seen from his perspective.

Fallout Shelter

Fallout Shelter is a post-nuclear strategy and simulation experience that puts you in control of a state-of-the-art underground Vault. Build the perfect Vault from a variety of rooms, oversee your very own thriving community of Vault Dwellers, and protect them from the dangers of the Wasteland. Vault-Tec has provided the tools, but the rest is up to you.

Onrush

Onrush is an arcade-style car combat game in which players drive cars, motorcycles and off-road vehicles over multi-layered hilly terrain. The game features a boost mechanic that players can use to increase their vehicle’s speed. Players earn boost by performing stunts and slamming rival combatants to take them out.

July 2018 85

lifestylewebsites

VERDICT: Easy-to-use service which might reveal the next big thing.

Art Exhibition

Site: www.soundcloud.com Rating:

The British School of Bahrain students showcased their projects in an art exhibition at its campus.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

What is it?

It’s a simple, bare-bones site that allows anyone to upload and download music under a variety of licences, and embed uploaded tracks across the web. It’s a lot like YouTube, but with audio instead of videos. The overall tone of the site is positive and generally more serious than YouTube and is well respected within the music community.

The Good Emily, Poonam & Sharon

Saija

Without a doubt, SoundCloud is an amazing gift to indie music. It’s effortless and has a novel timed annotation feature, allowing people to discuss music in an entirely new way. SoundCloud is great, and if you want to hear the next major act before the labels do, SoundCloud is where to look. The search feature is intuitive and you can narrow down your preferences to find that sound you really like.

The Bad

Although the website has strong community guidelines, occasionally objectionable material will sneak online for a brief time before it is reported and deleted.

www.wolframalpha.com

Lauren, Helen, Mary, Emily & Maurice

Wolfram Alpha is the awesome artificially intelligent graphing calculator that you wish you had at Myrthe & Alexandra

high school. Want to know what a function looks like? Done. Want to see how to solve an equation, step by step? It’s easy. Want to know the nutrition facts of a 100g of fried chicken? Not a problem. Wolfram Alpha has a bizarrely broad and sophisticated suite of features, and is the student’s best friend.

Rihab & Farida

www.10minutemail.com

Zeina, Vian, Robin & Zahra

86 July 2018

Alex & Megan

10 Minute Mail sets you up with a self-destructing email address that expires in 10 minutes. Your temporary inbox works just like regular email, allowing you to forward and respond to messages, but with utmost privacy and absolutely no spam to clog up your

inbox. You can add extra time if 10 minutes isn’t long enough. www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyleapps

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

What is it?

ifttt stands for ‘if this, then that’, which allows you to make thousands of commands, also known as ‘recipes’, such as sending you an SMS if it’s about to rain or to automatically post a link to your blog on your Facebook page at any given time. No programming skills required.

While you can create your own commands from scratch using what boils down to a ‘choose from the listed options’ interface, ifttt also lets you browse recipes that other users have created and made public.

The Good

The app is extremely simple to use. You might assume that the recipes would require some technical wizardry, but they don’t. It uses icons and large text to make the recipes completely easy to create, and supports integrations with dozens of other apps and services.

The Bad

The app doesn’t have a very good way of notifying you if there’s a problem with one of your recipes, and occasionally you have to be extremely exact with what you’re asking, which can be frustrating.

App: ifttt Rating: Verdict: Very secure. Very secretive. Very safe.

App: RockMyRun

App: Rewind - Automatic Time Tracking

If you enjoy running with music, especially new music picked to match your activity, RockMyRun is the app for you. This fitness app plays music and changes the tempo based on your footfalls or heart rate, while also keeping track of your runs. It also lets you set the tempo of a playlist, if you’d rather try to make your feet keep up with the music, and the app comes with a variety of genres.

Perfect for data junkies, this app keeps track of where you’ve been and for how long. Have you ever wondered how much time you spend at work or at home? How about at your favourite coffee shop or restaurant, or the gym? With Rewind, you can easily know this information without even thinking about it as it tracks everything in neatly presented graphs and charts.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2018 87

lifestylemovies

VERDICT: A fun Western adventure.

Film: Solo Rating:

City Centre Bahrain Gargaoun

Directed By: Ron Howard Starring: Alden Ehrenreich, Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke

Majid Al Futtaim, in conjunction with the Ministry of Social Development, held a Gargaoun celebration at City Centre Bahrain.

The Plot

Dua, Noof, Areef & Fouzia

With the emerging demand of hyperfuel and other resources, Han Solo finds himself in the middle of a heist alongside other criminals, where they meet the likes of Chewbacca and Lando Calrissian in an adventurous situation exposing the criminal underworld of the Star Wars saga.

Worth Watching?

Haneen & Alma

Reem & Abdul Rahman

Hamza, Nihad, Salma, Zaina & Abdul Aziz

Moath & Adel

Relaj, Muzoon, Mayar, Mohammed & Aisha

88 July 2018

Dalia

Salim & Natalia

Fouzia, Fajer & Saud

Reyoof & Alanood

Solo, both the movie and this new iteration of Ford’s classic character, now played by Alden Ehrenreich, flies by on charm, breezy irreverence and a slice of Star Wars fan service. But while it gets the trappings and appearances right, Solo never delivers on the promise of finding out why Han became who he was in A New Hope. It just explains how he got his stuff.

The film features some ably executed action scenes, with the key one being a train heist about midway through. This extended sequence calls to mind the westerns and World War II movies that all helped inspire George Lucas’s original Star Wars. The film also continues the franchise’s renewed interest in practical effects, making this once again feel like a lived-in world populated by real creatures and working vehicles and droids.

Ultimately, Solo offers enough pulpy fun and galaxy far, far away entertainment value to diminish any bad feeling one may have had about it heading into release.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom

Four years after the Jurassic World theme park was closed down, Owen and Claire return to Isla Nublar to save the dinosaurs when they learn that a oncedormant volcano on the island is active and is threatening to extinguish all life there. Owen sets out to find Blue, his lead raptor, and discovers a conspiracy.

Ocean’s 8

Five years, eight months, 12 days and counting – that’s how long Debbie Ocean has been devising the biggest heist of her life. She knows what it’s going to take: a team of the best people in the field, starting with her partner-incrime Lou Miller. Together, they recruit a crew of specialists. Their target is a necklace that’s worth more than USD150 million. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Anniversary Celebration Maserati Owners Club Bahrain celebrated its third year anniversary under the patronage of HE Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and in collaboration with Italian Ambassador, HE Domenico Bellato. The cake-cutting ceremony took place during the club’s annual Ghabga reception in the presence of ambassadors, Maserati members/owners and other distinguished guests.

Aimee, Keshore Kewalram, HE Dr A S U Mendis, HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof, Capt Mohammad Al Siddiqi, Faraj Alqassimi, Rifat Alghawi, HE Shaikh Dr Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, HE Domenico Bellato, Amin El Sharkawi, HE Alfred Simms-Protz, HE Mohammad Jamal Aloula & HE Vagif Garaev

Capt Mohammad Al Siddiqi, Faraj, HE Shaikh Dr Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa & Rifat

Fadi, Maya, HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & Wani

Divina & Teresa

Fatima, Sabeekah, Anabel & Cezcille

Kid’s Beauty Pageant Media Circuit organised a community event to celebrate the 120th Philippine Independence Day at The Sheraton Bahrain Hotel.

Keziah & Janaan

Marnz, Jen, Chona & Mabel

Kim, Mildred & Joey

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jameela

Jeanette & Vincent

Joy & Sabeekah

Ramer & Wilma

July 2018 89

lifestyletravel

CRUISING INTO THE

21ST CENTURY

George Vaughan embarked on The Norwegian Bliss to experience the very best that this cruise liner has to offer.

As someone who looked at cruises as a more traditional holiday experience for the over-50s with money to burn, the opportunity to experience the inaugural launch of Norwegian Cruise Line’s latest ship, Norwegian Bliss, didn’t exactly fill me with excitement.

My immediate thoughts were a combination of ‘70s sitcom The Love Boat, over-the-hill crooners, overweight, retired couples whose idea of excitement was post-breakfast shuffleboard and endless queues for the buffet at lunch and dinner.

However, within 10 minutes of boarding and being shown to my cabin, those poorly amassed preconceptions rapidly evaporated like smoke on the ocean breeze.

The Norwegian Bliss is an impressive sight to behold, more like a floating hotel than a conventional liner, and, I was reliably informed, it is the first cruise ship that has been custombuilt with features and amenities to enhance its primary route, the coast of Alaska, where it started sailing from June 2.

Once the luggage was unpacked and the obligatory safety procedures completed, we were given the chance to explore the vast ship, to discover a feast of new and, in some cases, innovative firsts aboard the vessel.

90 July 2018

Clockwise, Haven Deluxe Owner Suite bedroom, bathroom and living room

The sleeping quarters – a basic double cabin with balcony – included the amenities you would expect to find: double bed, TV, wardrobe and seating area together with a larger than expected bathroom with shower.

Stepping out of the corridors on our deck, we quickly made our way to the first eye-

opening location, the observation deck, which is an impressive 180-degree viewing area that provides the most expansive views of the sea.

The perfect way to get our voyage under way, with drinks served from the central bar as the ship pulled away from port.

After a brief excursion through the casino www.bahrainthismonth.com

Balcony Cabin

and shopping areas, thoughts moved towards food and 29 restaurants to choose from – The Bliss caters for every taste. Whether you want a Texan-style steak or freshly made pasta, the diverse range of eateries can satisfy your needs.

We grabbed a spot of early dinner at Food Republic – not a name you would immediately associate with sushi – and found it to be a pleasant experience, although the at-table ordering through tablets and café-style environment didn’t put it at the premium end of the restaurant selection. That said, the food here was excellent and we had an enjoyable meal.

Post dinner, after booking ourselves seats for the theatre (more of that in a moment), we wandered over to the Skyline Bar for a cocktail and took in the sights of the slot machines and roulette tables as the early evening gamblers came out to play.

The Bliss has two specially commissioned shows – Jersey Boys, the Tony Award-winning musical based on Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, which is an excellent version of the Broadway and West End hit; and Havana, which was written and debuted on the ship and takes its story from the colour and vibrancy of Cuba. This wasn’t quite up to the standard of Jersey Boys but was a credible effort. On both occasions, we quickly forgot that we were miles out at sea and not in a theatre in the heart of London.

The Bliss boasts an impressive 19 decks in total, and the following morning we took breakfast at one of the dedicated restaurants, Savor, before taking a stroll out on the main deck, where there is a series of swimming pools, a water slide and a laser tag arena that was a huge amount of fun. Probably the true standout experience was the top deck race track, a two-level thrilling ride on electric cars that can take up to 10 drivers at a time and – we were reliably told – is the longest of its kind on any ship.

This was a great hit with all age ranges but potential drivers should be reminded that there is an additional fee for racing and other www.bahrainthismonth.com

Haven Observation Lounge Deck 17 - Sofa View

restrictions also apply.

For those of you looking to chill out a little and more inclined towards luxury, then The Haven Spa is a must-visit location. This area of the ship is restricted to paying guests or Haven residents and showcases the very best that The Bliss has to offer. If you want to experience the premium end of cruising, then this is it. Kids are also not allowed in certain areas here, so it’s a great place to come if you want to escape the younger members of the family for a few hours.

And where do those younger members go while you are being spoilt rotten? Fortunately, The Bliss has an amazing range of spaces dedicated to the very young right up to late teens, decking out really engaging areas with

everything from video games to air hockey and dance floors. A great deal of thought and attention has gone into the design of these locations and it was one of the highlights of the ship. It’s good to see that the kids haven’t been forgotten and, not only will they be happy exploring this section, fathers and mothers will not feel guilty about leaving them there.

For the fitness freaks amongst you, there is a fully featured gym that covers everything from a comprehensive weights section to running machines that let you look out over the sea as you exercise.

All in all, The Norwegian Bliss certainly surprised us. Cruises have come a long way since I last contemplated one.

Haven Lounge

July 2018 91

lifestyletravel Clockwise from left: The Old Medina; Art Deco Rialto Cinema; Rick’s; Hassan II Mosque; catching waves; traditional market.

92 July 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyletravel

PLAY IT again Casablanca, the very name conjures up images of Bogart and Bergman and their doomed, WWII-era love affair in the film of the same name.

And with direct flights from Bahrain, you can soak up a taste of that romance for yourself.

Morocco’s largest city is often ignored in favour of the equally nostalgic Marrakech, but if you’re looking for a break that offers everything from surfing beaches to architecture and art to great food, Casablanca is the place to be.

Located in the central-western area of the country and bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca, and, in fact, all along the neighbouring coast, is well known for its surfing. Each September board riders from all over the world descend on the city for the Quicksilver Pro competition.

But, if you think that might be a little energetic, don’t worry – there are plenty of beachside hotels where you can chuck a towel on a sunbed and settle in for some serious rest and relaxation in a somewhat more temperate climate than our own, surrounded by stunning architecture from Art Deco to determinedly modern.

Obviously, it would be a sin to visit Casablanca without paying your respects at Rick’s. Immortalised in the aforementioned film, Casablanca, the restaurant/piano bar opened in 2004 and was designed to recreate the bar in the movie classic. Set in an old courtyard-style mansion built against the walls of the Old Medina, it’s filled with architectural and decorative details that will have film buffs swooning. There is an authentic 1930s’ Pleyel piano and As Time Goes By is a common request to the in-house pianist.

And, once you’ve had your fill of nostalgia, the city boasts some serious foodie credentials at restaurants such as Le Cabestan, which has a 90-plus-year history, Le Petite Roche, sitting on a promontory by El Hank lighthouse, and Le Rouget de l’Isle, which has just 12 tables and takes no reservations.

Pop next door from Rick’s into the Old Medina for souq-style shopping and look out for carpets and lamps, particularly. Or head to Qartier Habous, in the New Medina, for leather bags embellished with Moroccan coins and intricately designed clothes and shoes. As with any souq, be prepared to bargain! For a more upmarket experience, visit La Galerie de l’Aimance, on Boulevard Felix Houphouet Boigny, where you’ll find gorgeous pieces from local and international artists as well as jewellery, clothing and furniture.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2018 93

bystander Other Events

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Indian Ambassador, and wife Mamta, hosted a farewell dinner for HE Alfred Simms-Protz, German Ambassador, and wife Perwin, at their residence.

The Bahrain This Month team took part in the Clothes for Compassion campaign by Al Rashid Group.

CrediMax presented a cheque to Future Youth Society as part of its donation to Bahrain’s Smile Initiative.

Al Haddad Motors held its annual staff Ghabga at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, announced a new partnership with Bahrain Islamic Bank during an official signing ceremony at its premises.

CrediMax hosted its annual VIP Ghabga gathering at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel hosted an Iftar for Bahrain Down Syndrome Society.

94 July 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander Other Events

Joz Group held its annual Iftar party at the Elite Resort and Spa.

Majid Al Futtaim expanded its ‘Iftar Saem’ initiative this year by also delivering Iftar meals to the Kingdom’s labour camps.

The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, in collaboration with the Royal Charity Organisation, hosted a charity Iftar for 100 orphans at its premises.

Marriott International celebrated the ninth annual ‘Iftar for Cabs’ initiative at participating Marriott hotels in the Middle East, including three in Bahrain — Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, The Westin & Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain.

CrediMax, in partnership with Visa, announced the winners of its 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign.

The Bhatia Mitra Mandal donated 100 boxes of food supplies to the Bahrain Red Crescent Society.

Sixteen students from the British School of Bahrain represented their school at the Council of British International Schools annual Secondary Games held in Sheffield, England.

Bokhowa Group and the management of Saar Mall held a Ramadan Ghabga for employees at Reem Al Bawadi restaurant in Ramada Manama City Centre.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2018 95

lifestyletarotscope

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

LIBRA September 23 – October 22 Love is still the primary topic for you this month and the signs are that, if anything, events are moving even faster than they were before. So much so, that a few of you may

July means a change in romantic interests

even need to take a step back and apply the brakes whilst you try and

and there is a good chance that a

for problems and, instead, simply sit back and enjoy the ride. It’s still

struggling relationship will finally buckle

Card of the Month — Page of Cups

catch your breath. Overall, however, you are advised not to go looking early days – so make the most of what you have discovered!

under the strain and it may all end in tears.

SCORPIO October 23 – November 21

Although this event will be painful to come

attain more than just friendship – this person is still waiting

to terms with, the initial loss will give way

This month, beware the advances of an admirer seeking to in the shadows and may simply be biding their time before they make a decisive move! Towards the end of July, you may take a

to a renewed sense of determination to set

short break away – possibly just to think matters over or simply only for

your life back on track. Also, if you have

move quickly and put aside any hesitation – but also ask yourself how

been contemplating greener fields and

Card of the Month — Knight of Pentacles

different pastures, then an unexpected

a deserved rest. You might pick up a bargain around the 28th – if you much you really need it.

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21

opportunity to break free could come your

A relative who is feeling the financial pinch might be in

way on the 15th.

know the person and their situation – do the charitable

Card of the Month — Knight of Cups For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

LEO July 23 – August 22 A destructive force enters your life in the shape of a disgruntled relative who appears to have decided you are to blame for a long-running feud in the family. Try not to rise to their bait but, instead, put the record straight as soon as possible since your best option is tackling the problem head-on rather than allowing it to eat away at your sensitivities. Curb the cutting tongue rather than encourage it or you may end up the victim of this unruly person’s intentions.

Card of the Month — Four of Wands

VIRGO August 23 – September 22 Life in the fast lane is hard going and, for some of you usually introverted and more methodical Virgos, July may see you running out of steam and needing a short rest to recuperate. Don’t start committing yourselves too quickly to too many things. If you do find your reserves a little low by the middle of the month, grab a few days’ holiday and take it easy. A little sunshine and a lot of pampering is just the ticket – if you can convince yourself to believe that!

Card of the Month — Three of Pentacles 96 July 2018

need of a little assistance so don’t wait to be asked. You thing and offer to help! A gift given out of unrequited love could also cause a dispute around the end of the month, so, if you don’t want certain people to know, keep the secret to yourself. Overall, July is going to be a watershed month for your sign and the real impact is likely to come later in the year as you move towards November and December.

Card of the Month — Judgement

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 19 What you want and what you need could be very different things for your sign, and how you balance the two in your own mind may be one of the biggest challenges for you this month. Work remains an unknown quantity and, after a period of dissatisfaction and uncertainty, there could be light at the end of the tunnel. Just make sure you focus on the important aspects and detach your emotions from the situation. It’s more about the basics this month.

Card of the Month — King of Wands

AQUARIUS January 20 – February 18 Waiting on a rise or possible cash bonus from shares that are performing well may lead you to consider a major purchase this month. However, be sure to have the money in your hand before you step out to buy your ‘dream’ item. Any hasty decision could leave you short – as well as alarmed when a bill arrives and you have no funds to meet it with. Restraint is the order of the day in July, so take heed and be better prepared. If you need to splash out then it might be worth waiting until later in the year to do so.

Card of the Month — Seven of Wands www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyleadvertisersindex PISCES February 19 – March 20 Relationships are at the top of your agenda in July – both romantically and where certain relatives are involved – as you try to juggle two discontented individuals’ needs.

Perhaps the answer is to stop trying to please everyone and, instead, to force those concerned to put up or shut up! The influence of the Page of Wands on your sign is particularly relevant where finances are concerned and it might explain why there is so much friction flying about you at present.

Card of the Month — Page of Wands

Hotels & Serviced Residences

Others

Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 59

British University of Bahrain . . . . . . . . 3

Berlitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Park Regis Lotus Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

MAF Investments Bahrain (Carrefour) 8

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Restaurants & Cafés

Medical & Dental Services

Bayti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . IBC

ARIES March 21 – April 19 This month will see your finances entering a more balanced phase following a period of investment and development, much of which may have been linked to property and education. This provides you with a real opportunity to exploit the freedom you will be afforded and you should try to think outside the box in terms of career and general life aspirations. You might not get another chance like this over the remainder of the year and what you put into place from July will certainly shape the final months of 2018.

Card of the Month — Six of Pentacles

TAURUS April 20 – May 20 Your sign is about to enter a phase of sustained financial growth as you pass the mid-year period and some good work in the first half of 2018 starts to produce significant rewards. The real challenge for you now is how you build from this position of strength to ensure you continue the journey through to 2019 in a similar fashion. On the work front, your career continues to blossom in several areas and, for those of you with irons in more than one fire, this could be a real marquee month. Make sure you enjoy it.

Card of the Month — Five of Pentacles

Technal Middle East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Middle East Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Motoring

Talabat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Jawad Business Group (AVIS) . . . . . 49

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . 63

E R O M DONLINE! O omers g cust

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GEMINI May 21 – June 20 Sacrifice is a big feature of your reading this month.

However, the sacrifice does not come from you but a partner whose generous spirit opens the way for you to take advantage of a situation you would have otherwise never been able to consider. Don’t forget quickly what has been done for you here as not many would do the same in similar circumstances. The best way to show your appreciation would involve being a little more affectionate and loving than usual.

Card of the Month — Eight of Swords

Sofia Vergara

Josh Hartnett

Liv Tyler

FAMOUS CANCER THIS MONTH

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

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

All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from Red House Marketing, 17 813-777 or email: bystander@redhousemarketing.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2018 97

lifestylewinwin Bahrain This Month gives one lucky reader an exclusive chance to win Amouage’s latest women’s fragrance – Imitation!

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions.

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10

Bahrain This Month received 96 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

Which country is Zapin Dance from? ______________________________________________ What is the name of the Sudanese group that will perform as part of the Summer Festival? ______________________________________________

Winner : Maryam Salman Second Place : Ella Mae Fonollera Third Place : Mohammed Nasir

Which DJ duo will perform at Gallery 21 on July 27? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

1. Bahrain International Exhibition and Conference Centre 2. A Little Murder Never Hurt Anybody 3. June 14 4. Saudia Arabia vs Russia 5. All-inclusive Driving Package 6. Porsche Cayenne S 7. ‘Only we are offering you an Audi’ 8. June 15 9. Layali Al Zallaq 10. Chef Javed Qureshi

Who is the executive director of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain? ______________________________________________ On which day of the week does Atiram Premier serve a Sunday roast dinner? ______________________________________________ When did Talabat start operations in Bahrain? ______________________________________________ OPEN A WINDOW ... BUT

KEEP THE NOISE OUT?

Where is the LNT Gastropub located?

YES, IT IS NOW POSSIBLE! ______________________________________________

Name:

Ad Seek:

1. Titan/Kewalram

2. Farhat International Tours & Travels

3. Liali Jewellery

4. Al Haddad Motors/ Mercedes-Benz

Address:

What will be the official name for Porsche’s first purely electric sports car? ______________________________________________

Telephone: Email:

What’s Mercedes-AMG’s latest open-air model called? ______________________________________________ Special BD

Carrefour Reward App

CPR:

Offers

Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Which new engine will be the centrepiece of the new Cadillac CT6 V-Sport?

IMAGINE WHAT’S NEXT

Discover a whole range of MyCLUB benefits

AD Seek BD

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This is a fun game for allDownload readers.

Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of Bahrain This Month. All you have to the Carrefour Bahrain app become a member do is identify the ad andand mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner! in less than 3 MINUTES

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98 July 2018

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