Bahrain This Month - July 2020

TECHNOLOGY - ENTERTAINMENT - TRAVEL

Since 1997

July 2020 | Vol. 24 | Issue 7 | BD2 / SR20 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

HOTELS SPECIAL

OUT AND ABOUT

The island’s leading hospitality bosses on keeping guests safe and preparing for the future

Bahrain’s Beautiful Beaches

DINING

Essential Italians

PEOPLE

TRAVEL

French Ambassador, HE Jerome Cauchard, on strong bilateral relations

The French Riviera

WTM

Ali Al Saeed explains the concept of Museland

The woman behind The Cravelist

Plans for the future from the Rotary Club of Manama’s new President, Marjan Modara

Ageing Gracefully Summer Sunnies

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

Digital Edition

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CONTENTS

JULY

12

ISSUE 275

6

31

42

COVER STORY Focus on Hospitality

13

Senior executives from some of the Kingdom’s most prominent properties on how they are keeping existing guests safe and their plans for when the market can safely reopen.

INTERVIEWS

6

Moving Forward

8 10 12

A Societal Impact

French Ambassador, HE Jerome Cauchard, talks of strong relations with Bahrain.

Marjan Modara, new President of the Rotary Club of Manama, shares her experience and future plans for the organisation.

Don’t Stop the Music

Ali Al Saeed, founder of Museland, explains its evolving concept.

The Voice of Bahrain

Nasreen Maroof traces her journey to becoming Chief of Bahrain Radio.

MOTORING

40

24 25

MY LIFE IN CARS

Dick Potter reflects on how the virus is affecting the motors industry.

Motors Bites

COMMERCE

47

52

WOMAN THIS MONTH CONTENTS

BEAUTY

46-49

Styling, essentials and news.

INTERVIEW

50

What Are You Craving?

The Cravelist’s Hind Al Rumaihi on what makes her tick.

LIFESTYLE

55-57

PARENTING

58

FASHION

52-54

Well-being and home style.

Ouiam Charkani El Hassani on the art of the apology.

54

27 29

Business Bites Economic Stimulus Packages Financial expert Pria Masson Tanwar on understanding the latest buzz phrase.

COMMUNITY

30

News to keep you updated on local happenings.

DINING

31

Si Grazie!

A roundup of Italian eateries that are currently offering delivery.

TECHNOLOGY

34-38

The best in gadgets, games, websites and apps.

ENTERTAINMENT

The latest news and hot trends.

39-40

New TV and music to enjoy.

LIFESTYLE www.bahrainthismonth.com bahrainthismonth www.bahrainthismonth.com

bhthismonth

41-44

Green goodies, travel and out and about.

July 2020 3

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THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton

Bahrain This Month July 2020

Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Dick Potter, Pria Masson Tanwar Ouiam Charkani El Hassani Razan Al Arabi Editorial Consultant Ahdeya Ahmed

Welcome to our July digital edition, we hope you’re all staying safe and well as we continue to face deeply challenging times.

Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian

It has been in the news this month that Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority has launched two new initiatives aimed at getting the hospitality industry moving again, once it is safe to do so. With this in mind, we contacted senior managers at some of the Kingdom’s most prominent hotels to find out how they are keeping current guests safe and happy and their plans for re-opening restaurant and spa facilities, once the necessary restrictions are lifted.

Layout and Graphics Hatem Monem Photography Editor Muna Yousef Staff Photographer Subeesh Kumar N S

With Bastille Day around the corner, on July 14, we have a French accent in both the Interview Section and Travel. French Ambassador, HE Jerome Cauchard, talks about the strong relationship between our two nations. And, in Travel, we share the Riviera hotspots you won’t want to miss.

Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz

Our other interviewees this month are ‘The Voice of Bahrain’, Nasreen Maroof, who heads Bahrain Radio; Ali Al Saeed, founder of the Museland musical collective; and the new President of the Rotary Club of Manama, Marjan Modara. An eclectic and interesting mix, I’m sure you will agree.

Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services)

On the Dining pages, you’ll spot details of some great Italian eateries along with their signature dishes all available for delivery, so you don’t have to miss out while waiting for them to re-open.

Media Sales ANURADHA MANHAS anuradha@redhousemarketing.com TATUM TURNER tatum@redhousemarketing.com

Elsewhere, you’ll find out usual roundups of news from the worlds of business and motoring. We’ve introduced a new Community News page and, as always, there are plenty of ideas for entertainment, both indoors and out and about.

DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Digital Marketing & Social Media Executive Farah Baig Art & Animation Director Hatem Monem Videography Danny Sokov

Our Woman This Month pages include an interview with Hind Al Rumaihi, the Bahraini foodie behind The Cravelist, who even shares a mouth-watering cake recipe which I, or rather my lovely wife Annie, who is a much better cook than I, cannot wait to try. There are also hot-topic, anti-ageing tips in the Beauty pages and fun, at-home things to try in the Fashion section, not to mention immunity boosting know-how in Well-being.

Virus restrictions may mean our days are somewhat different at the moment, but we’re still Your Guide to a Great Way of Life.

Printing Press Union Press, 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 2005-2020 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

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

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

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COVER Cover Picture:

HOTELS

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

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

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

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July 2020 5

interview

Moving Forward With Bastille Day around the corner, French Ambassador, HE Jerome Cauchard, talks of strong relations with Bahrain.

I believe this is your first posting as head of mission, how has your career to date prepared you for this role?

I worked in the past at the French Presidency, also with French Prime Minister as Deputy Chief of French State Protocol. I was diplomatic advisor to the President of the upper chamber of Parliament. I have also been Consul General and twice Deputy Head of Mission.

So, I can honestly say that I was prepared, but it must be acknowledged that a posting as Head of Mission bears no comparison. You feel it when you are introduced to His Majesty the King with your credentials. It is definitely something new.

You have been here almost 10 months now. How are you finding life in Bahrain? (pre and post restrictions.)

I was very busy after my arrival.

Time just flew by. There are so many things to do and discover in Bahrain, in many different fields: political, economic, cultural, religious, social, sport and even animal welfare.

Of course, life has changed with the restrictions due to the pandemic, with a broader use of remote work and video for example. But it seems that we are on the move again.

How many French nationals are residing in Bahrain?

Around 1,100 French citizens are registered at the Consulate, who live in Bahrain and contribute by their daily actions to the relationship between France and Bahrain.

What are their main concerns and how does the embassy deal with these? And how is the embassy supporting the community during the current pandemic conditions? Are you aware of any French nationals who have contracted the virus?

Our embassy has kept close contact with the French community, updating relevant information on a regular basis. Fortunately, according to our knowledge, only one French

citizen has been infected until now.

With a full recovery.

The French Embassy a been in touch on a regular basis with the French community, providing practical information, useful internet links and guidance. Of course, we have a special highlight on international travel from abroad to mainland France and on rules governing entry into the French territory (for example the required international travel certificate and sworn statement of absence of Covid-19 symptoms and of contact with confirmed cases).

And these regulations have been evolving in line with the sanitary situation in France.

Generally speaking, and having in mind that there is no vaccine yet, the French community has been fully committed to compliance with regulations taken by the Kingdom’s authorities. These regulations and precautionary measures were taken at an early stage, like the closure of schools, the choice for large-scale testing, e-services in the administration or self-isolation. Every country has to address the epidemic with a specific mix of measures. The French community of Bahrain has been confident. In this regard, it should be noted that Gulf Air has kept open the air route between Manama and Paris. It helped a lot. And we do not forget all the health workers. Their devotion and personal investment are to be commended.

In which sectors are they employed?

Nearly 40 French companies have a presence in the country, mainly distributed between the financial services sector (BNP Paribas), industry (Fives, Vinci Energies), engineering (Setec, Egis, Aéroports De Paris), infrastructure (Veolia, Engie, EDF), hotels (Accor) and insurance (Axa).

The Africa-Middle East headquarters of BNP Paribas bank and the insurance company Axa have been located in the capital since 1975, illustrating the role of regional hub that the Kingdom has been playing. French nationals are also working in the educational and cultural sectors. And, of course, my colleagues in the French Embassy.

Presenting credentials the HM The King 6 July 2020

www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview What are the current trade figures between the two countries?

With a trade exchange of almost USD560 million in 2018, Bahrain succeeded in maintaining its position as a partner of choice for French companies that wish to benefit from its favourable business environment.

The economic trade balance sheet of 2018 reflects a dynamic commercial partnership to the short advantage of France. According to customs statistics, bilateral economic exchanges (goods only) between France and Bahrain in 2018 reached a value of around USD496 million.

Do you believe these can be improved and, if so, how?

Yes indeed. Both sides want to improve our bilateral economic and commercial ties. In the transport sector, the country has announced the construction of a metro network and a second bridge, with a road and rail axis, with Saudi Arabia. In the petroleum sector too, the country is also seeking to ensure the exploitation of unconventional hydrocarbon reserves whose discovery was announced in early 2018.

A lot of French firms may be interested in those projects and I am here to support them in this process.

Are there any recent trade developments that you can share with us? Such as business won

by French companies, for example the agreement to provide frontline robots for Covid-19 and the agreement between Export Bahrain and FCCI Bahrain last November.

The major projects in which French companies are engaged include: the extension of Bahrain International Airport –Aéroports de Paris is responsible for the design and Thalès the establishment of a management and operational security system– which will allow a capacity of 12 million passengers per year to be reached, compared to nine million today; the renewal of the fleet of the national airline Gulf Air, including the on-board entertainment and connectivity system; the increase in production capacity of the aluminum foundry operated by the public company ALBA, through the construction of a sixth production line, for which the French specialist Fives won three contracts in 2016 relating to the supply of services and industrial engineering; the production of electricity and the desalination of seawater by reverse osmosis [Engie] or even the management of infrastructure cooling circuits [Veolia]. And recently an agreement was signed with a French company specialised in biological protection of palm trees, part of this country’s history.

Let me add that French SMEs are also active, supported by the French Embassy but also by efficient partners.

Export Bahrain and the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain (FCCIB) signed a memorandum of understanding to foster export opportunities for Bahraini SMEs to export their products and services to the www.bahrainthismonth.com

French market.

The two organisations will work to support businesses from various sectors to explore possibilities in the French market and provide them with solutions to identify French potential partners and buyers.

Are there any high-level trade delegations or VIP visits planned for the future? If so, how will these be managed?

With the pandemic, we don’t have a clear agenda regarding this matter but, when the situation improves and business is back to normal, some high-level trade delegations or VIP visits might be planned for the near future.

We are already planning virtual conferences and meetings. We also expect a high-level delegation in connection with the Manama Dialogue.

Town goes even further back in history as we celebrated its 50th anniversary last year! Its cultural programming is very diverse. Going forward, we are focusing on cultural and creative industries, such as video games and virtual reality, we had a very successful VR exhibition last November.

We support the idea of the virtual Let’s Make Music Festival and we are in touch with Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities about it.

What are your hopes for the remainder of your posting in Bahrain?

As a whole, the French Team wants to keep moving forward!

Anything else to add?

I want to thank Bahrain This month for providing this wonderful opportunity to celebrate together the French National Day, the ‘Bastille Day’, July 14. This year’s celebration may take place in a 'different' way but I am confident that all those who celebrate this event with us, share on that occasion the same emotion, the same values and the same confidence in France’s future.

Bon 14 juillet à tous!

The role of cultural exchange between the two countries has always been an important one.

How is this being developed for the future?

How was the idea for the virtual Let’s Make Music Festival received?

The cultural relationship between both countries is strong, long-lasting and even improving. I had the chance to meet the President of Bahrain Culture and Antiquities Authority (BACA), Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, very soon after my arrival. I was deeply impressed by her unwavering commitment to Bahrain’s cultural field in which she has made such strong contributions.

France is fully involved in the cultural field, as you know. So, we try to be a reliable partner as often as possible. For example, it is not always well known, but we have had a dynamic archaeological mission for the last 40 years (and more) in the Kingdom, which has greatly contributed to establishing the Qal'at al Bahrain museum, for instance. The Alliance Française in Isa Representing French business interests

meeting Shaikha Mai July 2020 7

interview

A Societal Impact Marjan Modara, the new President of the Rotary Club of Manama (RCM), tells of her own satisfaction in the organisation and plans for the future.

H

ow long have you been with Rotary and what drew you to the organisation?

I’ve been a member for more than 10 years. I was looking for a way to give back to our society and help in the community. A friend invited me to a Rotary lunch and I really liked the fellowship and the calibre of the members.

The fact that it included all kinds of professionals from all sectors in society, and the nationality diversification were also two of the factors that attracted me to join.

Those factors helped in the ease of putting fund raising events together, driving big projects and delivering them to have a big impact where support is needed most in the local community.

What do you feel you, personally, have gained from being part of Rotary?

Seeing the good that our projects do to improve the lives of the less fortunate in society has given me a lot of contentment and a sense of self-worth. On the personal level, by teaming up with our professional members I have tremendously developed my leadership abilities in producing an environment where team members can be their best while working 8 July 2020

on community projects. Working alongside CEOs, doctors, finance professionals, business owners, teachers et cetera has also taught me skills that otherwise I wouldn’t have in any other society. And while doing all the aforementioned, the fellowship that has grown amongst us has made it worthwhile being part of Rotary.

Before the presidency, which other roles have you held within the Rotary Club of Manama?

I have been Club Secretary and took on the director role in Community Service, Club Service, Vocational, International, Sergeant at Arms and Public Relations. In many cases, I was assisting other directors in their projects.

How has Rotary been dealing with the current coronavirus circumstances?

It has been a very challenging time for us. In normal circumstances, we used to meet for lunch regularly on Sundays each week to plan on projects, update the members of the club’s activities and socialise. But, with the precautions, we have had stop our physical meetings and go online to hold our meetings virtually. But we managed to raise funds and help with Ramadan food boxes, which we

distributed to the less fortunate families in society, we also supported the authorities and other non-profit organisations in giving aid to the migrant workers by providing masks and food rations in these difficult times.

What are your plans for the coming year?

Steering a community service project that will have a big impact in society will be the main www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview focus this year. This will aim also to enhance the image of Rotary and what we do to support projects locally as my second focus. By working hand-in-hand with the authorities in the Kingdom and other non-profit organisations, we hope to rebuild a strong relationship with those groups. Driving a main community service project in collaboration with these groups is what we believe will assist us to reinforce what Rotary clubs can do for society.

Do you have any main projects and, if yes, how will you endeavor to accomplish these?

Mental health for young adolescents will be our main focus and project for the year and we

will be working to support this since the youth are the future of this country and their health is crucial to building a healthy and strong society that will take us into the future. In order to accomplish this task, we have to work with the officials in the Ministry of Health to support their programmes in this area. We have already established a good communication channel and will be working to back up one of their projects.

Are there any changes planned?

The only change I can see is how our meetings are going to be conducted moving forward. So far, we have been very successful in conducting our meetings online and, interestingly enough, we have been attracting members from all over the world to login and participate.

How many members does the Rotary Club of Manama have?

We are currently 59 members of which 13 are female. Out of the 11 members on the board of directors this year, three are male and the rest are female.

Will you be aiming to increase the membership?

To me, the focus this year will be on retaining and

www.bahrainthismonth.com

engaging our current members. With our meetings being online and not having social activities or the normal fund-raising activities, it is very challenging to attract new members.

It all depends on whether we will be able to go back to our normal lunch meetings and social activities during which guests are able to see what we actually do, that’s what would attract them to join.

Anything else you would like to add?

I would like to emphasise on the big impact that the Rotary Club of Manama has had so far in local society by producing projects in collaboration with members and other nonprofit organisations. To name just a few: a van was equipped and donated to the Ministry of Health for Diabetes Awareness and is now being used by RCSI as a means for diabetes prevention awareness in schools. This model is used as a prototype globally for diabetes awareness. In another arena, three blood analysis machines, each costing BD25,000, were donated in collaboration between RCM, AbdulHussain Dawani, past president of the club, Bahrain Road Runners and Yousif and Aysha Almoayed Charity, to the OPD Clinic at Salmaniya Hospital for sickle cell patients – improving the quality of and prolonging the lives of these patients.

Fundraising events have been our main source of financing to carry out our projects.

With the current situation, we are challenged to find innovative ways to collect funds for our future projects.

July 2020 9

DON’T STOP THE MUSIC

interview

Ali Al Saeed, founder of Museland – Bahrain’s own evolving musical concept – tells Liz O’Reilly about the group’s past and its future.

These days Museland is an all-round musical platform, running concerts and events (pre-virus), special performance nights at local bars and also releasing music from a range of artists. But it wasn’t always so. Ali explains: “I was originally involved with the collective Elham – which focused on all art forms from photography to literature. The first time Museland, as a concert, came about was during the second art festival, around 2006/7. It was a concert as part of the festival showcasing mostly local music at the Cultural Hall. I think there were eight local Bahrainbased bands playing.

“As part of that, we also released the first compilation, mostly Bahrainbased artists. Then we gradually started expanding to general artists as it progressed.”

Elham had started slowing down and, from the response, Ali felt it was a great opportunity to develop the music side. He says: “I was focussing on music because I love it and it has great potential to grow. To push local, regional voices. At that time, it was mostly in-house hotel covers bands, though there were other scenes getting going offering original music, particularly on the metal scene.”

What’s the Story?

If you’re confused about what Museland actually is, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Even Ali, the founder, is hard-pushed for a simple one-word answer. “The one thing about Museland was that it was always going to be an evolving concept,” he says. “It’s hard to pin it down to record label or events – it was a record label to put out local artists.

“Now it’s events and record label. We’ve witnessed that there is so much change in the music business that it’s now more of a platform than a label.

“We have various sections that we cover. One is content, two is events and three is the label.

In terms of content, we’re trying to go more into video content and we’ve also released an 10 July 2020

online music magazine. These days, because of what’s going on, we’re also going into podcasts and live streaming.

“What’s suffering right now is the events, we’ve been very active for the last year or so. Just before things stopped, we were looking at expanding into Saudi and Dubai but that’s all on hold, so we’ve gone back to content.”

Going Viral Before the coronavirus, Ali estimates that the organisation worked with around 50-60 artists over the past few years in its popular Musenight performances – the last of which was held in February and featured musicians from Bahrain, Saudi, Kuwait and Dubai.

And, since the imposition of restrictions, the

label has released several new tracks. “Most recent are Native Tourists and Arabstract,” he says. “Both are really electronic played live and Arabstract does this with Khaleeji vibes. Native Tourists are synth but performed live.

“Aveora have also put out a debut single which was featured on our previous compilation album.”

Ali is also keen to repeat Sound and Fiction, the music conference that took place last December.

“The first edition was a three-day music conference/residency that brought in artists and musicians from around the Gulf and some from the US,” he explains. “It featured live performances, workshops, craft ideas on making music and also offered a communitywww.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

Is Museland “a collective?

focused open space where people were selling records, performing and discussing work.

“It would be difficult to recreate the whole experience digitally, but we are working on doing something similar, perhaps on a smaller scale. It’s early days but we are trying to think of how we can do it and seeing if people would be interested in that approach. It’s one of our main concepts and we don’t want to let it die down.”

And though large-scale concerts seem to be a long way in the future, Ali is hopeful that something, in a yet to be decided form, can be staged to coincide with the release of the latest Museland compilation album which is expected for July or August.

New Release He says: “It will be the sixth edition and it has grown to really cover the entire region. The latest one will feature artists that we work with and some that we have been following for years. These include: Arabstract; Native Tourists; Galaxy Juice from Kuwait; Aada from Saudi; Pop Suicide, Monteath and YY from Dubai. It should be about 40 tracks, I think.

“What’s interesting about this is that we’ve noticed a growth [in the convergence] between electronic and rock. Most of these artists have that kind of vibe to them.

Previous editions had a bit more of an alternative rock sound to them. It’s interesting to go back to that catalogue and see that progression. I’m kind of excited, it will be interesting to see people’s responses, it definitely has a more poppy, dancey vibe.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

Not really, but it definitely has that communal vibe. It’s one thing to provide a platform but another to create a platform where musicians feel able to explore new things to perhaps go away from what they have done before.”

What do you listen to?

It sounds a bit of a [cop out] but I really do listen to everything from rock to house and everything in between.

First record you ever bought?

Metallica – Kill ‘Em All. Who are you watching?

Galaxy Juice are working on their next album, their recent single is amazing.

Anyone you’re not working with that you would like to?

I hope to feature Msylma. He’s based in Saudi, I find him fascinating, he’s doing something that I haven’t come across in the region. I hope to have the opportunity to work with him.

How are you doing now?

That’s the big question, we’re doing well considering. It’s a bit tough not knowing what’s ahead. In general, just keeping healthy and safe.

July 2020 11

interview

THE VOICE OF BAHRAIN

Nasreen Maroof traces her journey from a degree in business to heading Bahrain Radio, under the aegis of the Information Affairs Authority, while sharing her proudest career moments with Behnaz Sanjana.

A

fresh business graduate from the University of Bahrain in early 2000, Nasreen was on the job hunt. “There was an announcement by the Ministry of Information in the newspaper, inviting young Bahrainis to a training workshop for various posts in the media,” she says. “Honestly, I was not keen on it but my mum encouraged me, saying that if nothing, it would add value to my resume.”

It’s true when they say that mama knows best, because it clearly set Nasreen on the path to career success. “I participated with the intention of pursuing a career in business once it was over. But, during the workshop, I rediscovered my school-day talent of writing short speeches and being able to talk to an audience,” she remembers.

Before she knew it, Nasreen was offered a presenter and news broadcaster role. It was a time when the radio service aired only one channel in Arabic, broadcasting news, music, and cultural programmes during the day. “I accepted the job and was assigned to co-present the most popular programme – Sabah Elkhair Ya Bahrain (Good Morning Bahrain). It was the most coveted show amongst the presenters, also the most challenging. The daily live show started early in the morning, aiming to connect the public with various ministries to voice their concerns over issues that needed urgent attention,” says the seasoned professional, who also read the news and presented shows covering cultural and political issues, such as the parliamentary elections, as well as participated in conferences around the Arab world on behalf of Bahrain Radio.

As time flew, Nasreen’s career trajectory soared and she was made head broadcaster at the organisation. “Today, I am the Chief of Bahrain Radio, in charge of seven stations, overseeing their general working with the help of my efficient team. Thanks to the Information Affairs Authority, we operate to the highest standards when it comes to quality of the studios and equipment,” she says.

12 July 2020

The broadcasting network has played a proactive role in the COVID-19 crisis by interviewing doctors and health care authorities since January. A special committee follows up on the last pandemic-related news and produces up-to-date educational and informative programmes for the public.

Nasreen shares two of her most memorable career highlights: “The first was when His Majesty, the King of Bahrain, [HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa] honoured broadcasters and media figures at his court. The second was when I met our beloved Prime Minister, His Highness Prince Khalifa [bin Salman Al Khalifa], and he bestowed on me the title ‘The Voice of Bahrain’.”

Higher responsibilities and accolades have not

stopped Nasreen from her greatest passion; that of sitting behind the microphone. She says, “I currently co-host Sabahkim Rayig (Your Elegant Morning) with my colleague, Fayez. After all these years, I still consider the live broadcasting studio my sacred temple. Once the ‘on air’ sign lights up, I still get goosebumps and my soul enters a state of awe.

“Bahrain Radio was and always will be the link between the people and the government. It’s the most popular form of broadcast; accessible even on the go. Such popularity makes us work harder to provide the best. It is my second home and I will always be connected to my audience. I thrive on the feedback of listeners and will always do my best to entertain them. I don’t think my passion to be behind the microphone will ever cease.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

hotels feature

HOTELS F EATURE

FOCUS ON HOSPITALITY

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) is working hard to bring visitors back to the Kingdom and has recently launched two new campaigns aimed at positioning the island as a ‘must see’ both for international tourists and those from our Gulf neighbours.

Launched in mid-June, and with a particular focus on post-virus Saudi Arabia, BTEA’s first campaign, titled #WeWillMeet, will run in the digital space and will take the form of a threephase initiative – the ‘Inspirational’ which aims to grab attention through interactive online posts and live sessions; ’Encouragement’ focussing on activity promotion; and ‘Transformation’ involving face-to-face interaction with visitors once it is safe to begin staging events again.

Launched from the BTEA’s Instagram account @Bahrain.Ours.Yours.ar, it is aimed at stakeholders in the tourism sector. A second campaign, Ihnee Fee Al Bahrain (Here in Bahrain), was launched at the end of June and will coincide with #WeWillMeet promoting the Kingdom’s unique attractions and experiences and, through extensive use of digital and social media, reminding people what the island has to offer.

As a result of the pandemic, huge numbers of people and businesses have moved online and the two-pronged approach is an end-to-end digital campaign that will not only target them but will also directly tap into a new segment and appeal to the millennials and Generation Zers.

With this move towards recovery in the hospitality industry, which has been hard hit by the necessary government restrictions in place to combat the spread of COVID-19, we spoke to senior managers from some of the Kingdom’s most prominent properties to find out how they are keeping existing guests safe and also their plans for when the market can safely reopen.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2020 13

HOT FEA ELS TU R E

WELL-BEING IS TOP PRIORITY The Gulf Hotel’s Area General Manager, Fares Yactine, explains how his property is dealing with the coronavirus situation.

Have you had guests staying during the pandemic and, if yes, what measures have been taken to keep them and your staff safe?

We take the necessary safety measures and precautions to comply with the guidelines and protocols. The well-being of our team members and guests is our top priority, and we are committed to providing them with a safe, hospitable environment. Guest and staff temperatures are checked upon entering the hotel, face masks are essential at all times and social distancing is practised among team members and guests within the hotel. In housekeeping, we ensure that guest rooms and all public areas are cleaned and sanitised frequently, especially the high-touch surface areas. For guest safety and comfort, an Out of Service tent card is placed on certain tables in public areas to enforce the social distancing rules. And to limit the number of

guests on each floor, we have introduced a ‘COVID-19 Out of Service’ door hanger in order to ensure social distancing and to limit the elevator use. Furthermore, the rooms are sanitised and kept sealed for two days after disinfection before a new guest is allowed to check-in.

Have you launched any new takeaway/ delivery options in your restaurants or any other services?

The Gulf Hotel has, in many ways, been the go-to place for people in Bahrain for culinary cravings. During the pandemic, when most of our guests cannot visit our restaurants, we decided to reach out with a dedicated takeout and delivery menu from six of our awardwinning restaurants – China Garden, Sato, Royal Thai, Margarita Mexicana, Takht Jamsheed and Fusions by Tala. For Fusions by Tala, guests have the option, on certain items, to have their order delivered as a cooked meal or for them to participate in an interactive cooking experience by finishing and plating the dish themselves at home through a short step-by-step video, which is sent to them.

How are you preparing for the re-opening of spa and restaurants?

Our Gulf Spa is ensuring that all areas such as reception, pantry, treatment and changing rooms, equipment and service

14 July 2020

areas are sanitised with a proper set-up, following the standard procedure. Before opening, an inspection will be carried out to make sure all areas are ready for business.

In anticipation of the re-opening of our restaurants, we are getting ready with what we can consider will be the new normal for dining-out standards. We have just completed compiling our digital menus which can be accessed via QR code placed on the dining tables, the table and seating plan will be limited based on social distancing norms and sanitisation frequency will be increased for our restaurants as per government regulations. At the same time, we are also in the process of investing time in our personnel to be in line with the new requirements and to prepare ourselves for the re-launch.

Have the staff received any specific training?

It is important for our hotel staff to remain educated on up-to-date information about the pandemic. They are trained about the ways to prevent the spread of infections, the mode of transmission, symptoms and how to report in case of a suspected or positive case.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HOT FEA ELS TU R E

REINVENTION AND INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor GM, Marie-Berengere Chapoton, tells of international best practice and preparing for the future.

The property has been open and welcoming guests during the pandemic. The GM explains: “Our team has in place Accor ALLSAFE safety procedures, which have clearly laid out guidelines to ensure the safety of the guests as well as staff.

“Sanitary measures have been driven at a global corporate level by Accor, to ensure that all 5,000-plus hotels are following the right sanitary actions. An important step is the

nomination of safety officers which we have in each of our departments and a nurse. They are appointed to ensure that we are respecting all the sanitation and disinfection procedures in our hotel to welcome our guests.”

The hotel team has been constantly adapting to the current situation and continuing to serve its local population with MarieBerengere adding: “We have created a takeaway and delivery option for the local

community. The menu offers a variety of options ranging from international, Asian, Indian to Khaleeji and Bahraini delicacies to offer our customers the maximum choice with the expertise of Chef Abdel Kader and our pastry specialist, Chef Siraj. Our focus is, and always will be, to make sure all safety and sanitary procedures are also implemented in our delivery process.”

REINVENTION Looking to the future, the GM, who joined the property as it recently became part of the Accor group, is confident and looking forward to the easing of restrictions. She says: “During these challenging times, the entire team has worked with dedication and adapted to the ever-changing landscape. As countries start opening their borders and cities come back to life, the Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor team has put in place a contingency plan which includes several measures to prepare for the reopening. Restaurants and spas, as per government directives, have in place measures such as maintaining safe social distancing, restrictions on how many people will be permitted at one time, stringent measures for safety for the guests and staff and focus on contactless communication. The spa is currently providing limited services to ensure compliance with Accor and ministry regulations.

“Rest assured, as a property we have had the opportunity to reinvent ourselves and we are excited to welcome our guests back with new initiatives that have started to be enacted at the hotel.

“The staff have received training as per the Accor-level standards since the start of the pandemic. This training is constantly reviewed and improved, to make sure the team is always in line with what happens on a current basis. It is of the greatest importance to us that staff and guests are well taken care of.”

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2020 15

HOT FEA ELS TU R E

A WORLDWIDE INITIATIVE Mariusz Tymosiewicz, General Manager of Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain, tells us how his property is dealing with the current challenging circumstances.

How have you ensured the safety and comfort of your guests during the period of coronavirus restrictions?

We have been very fortunate to have heathy occupancies throughout this pandemic in our award-winning luxury serviced apartments here and globally.

We offer accommodation suitable for long-stay guests who enjoy the home comforts away from home, from fully fitted kitchens to separate dining and bedrooms. With a choice of full service or, if they choose, they can select the level of service they want, where sometimes less contact is preferred.

In response to the pandemic, Frasers Hospitality launched a worldwide initiative called #Fraser Cares which not only implemented WHO safety and guidelines as a baseline, but we also went above what was required to reassure our guests that their health and well-being continues to remain at the heart of what we do. Some of the measures taken by us include: 16 July 2020

• Promoting and adopting safe and

effective distancing measures and reducing contact points.

• All touch points in public areas such as door handles, elevator buttons et cetera are cleaned continuously.

• Contactless payment.

• D aily temperature readings of guests and staff.

• Mandatory certified training for all staff.

• Rooms are sanitised after guests check out and kept vacant for 48 hours.

• Extensive housekeeping policies and procedures while cleaning guest rooms.

• All supplies and materials are sanitised before being admitted into the hotel.

• Driving awareness for our in-house guests to ensure their wellbeing.

• Our cars are disinfected after each use and luggage is sanitised before entry into the hotel.

Have you introduced any new safety measures in the dining process?

Food is still a great part of our total offering.

Whilst our guests can cook in their apartments, many continue to order in-room dining from us, from breakfast to lunch and dinner. Having a dining area in the apartments offers you a safer means to enjoy your meal in safe surrounding.

On top of new set menus, we have also introduced a contactless process during the food and beverage procedure, offering our guests safe choices.

How are you preparing for the relaxing of restrictions?

Ensuring safe distancing and maximum capacity control would be key, in addition to all the above-mentioned heightened cleaning and sanitisation.

Our teams have undergone thorough training to prepare for the re-opening of our restaurant and will ensure that all precautions and safety measures are strictly adhered to.

This also includes our staff safety and well-being. www.bahrainthismonth.com

HOT FEA ELS TU R E

LEADING WITH CARE Richard Raab, GM of the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, updates us on the property’s virus fighting initiatives, apps and new services.

W

e have had the pleasure of continuing to welcome guests and their families to escape at our private island and beach – with utmost care. The health and safety of our guests, members and employees remains our top priority.

We are proud to collaborate with the renowned experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine International, leveraging their global expertise to validate our already stringent health and safety measures through our new Lead With Care programme – focused on providing care, confidence and comfort within the new COVID19 environment, and beyond.

While face-to-face interactions may be more limited during stays, we will remain as connected as ever. With our award-winning #FSApp and Four Seasons Chat, guests will have direct access to our team in 100-plus different languages, from the comfort of their own device.

In addition to CUT by Wolfgang Puck’s successful food delivery services, Bay View has recently launched a new à la carte and set menu which are now available for take-away and home delivery. Bay View’s legendary afternoon tea experience may also be enjoyed from the comfort and privacy of your home, along with a number of Executive Pastry Chef

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Imad’s wonderful selections of cakes for those special celebrations and occasions.

Our Four Seasons culinary craftsmen and wellness experts are excited to unveil a number of brand-new specials and offers once our award-winning restaurants and The Spa are able to re-open. Summer holidays might mean a staycation or time spent at home for residents of Bahrain this year, which is why there’s been almost no better – or more necessary – moment to explore and enjoy what’s nearest to us, whether that’s a whole day of self-pampering or indulging in new signature menu items. We look forward to sharing more news with you!

While guests will see many of the enhanced Lead With Care procedures and standards being practised within all guest areas, equally stringent behind-the-scenes measures will also take place through heightened hygiene practices, employee training, additional food handling protocols and enhancements to ventilation systems and other back-of-house operations.

Each Four Seasons property has appointed a Hygiene Committee focused on implementing enhancements to already stringent procedures which include disinfecting rooms and suites with EPA-approved products, focussed

re-training programmes for housekeeping teams on all cleaning protocols and more.

While this new Four Seasons experience may look different, we remain committed to upholding the same luxurious experience as our team continues to provide the same intuitive and personalised service for which we are known, ensuring that your visit or stay with us is second to none.

July 2020 17

HOT FEA ELS TU R E

GREAT GUEST EXPERIENCES

Crowne Plaza Bahrain GM, Bruno Hivon, talks recipe boxes and preparations for the lifting of restrictions.

During the pandemic, Crowne Plaza has designed its take-away menu with flavourful dishes to enjoy at home. We also provide the option to pick up your food with a discount of 20 per cent.

There is a range of international, Arabic and Indian dishes on offer and we also have an exclusive party platter menu. In addition, the hotel now has a range of unique ‘Chef’s Recipe Boxes’ filled with all the ingredients you need to create delicious meals such as paneer makhani, macchi ka salan and murgh soweta.

Each serves two to three people and contains the exact amounts of spices as well as the protein you need, so you won’t have to struggle with the exotic ingredients or measurements.

Looking towards reopening our facilities, we are mindful of recommended health standards and are working closely with local authorities for the safety and well-being of all our guests

and employees. The IHG Clean Promise has been in rolled out since the beginning of June.

We have ensured that all safety guidelines and signages are installed and our staff have been training for the last few weeks on social distancing protocols, specifically in the restaurants. The number of customers will be limited, and various promotions will be on offer.

Given the evolving nature of the Covid-19 outbreak, IHG [InterContinental Hotels Group] has provided operational guidance, including health and safety, brand standard changes and hotel department standard operating procedures which also include extensive training materials for all departments.

ENHANCED PROCEDURES As both the InterContinental Regency and Crowne Plaza are part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts group, they are proud to be part of the company’s ‘IHG Way of Clean’, which was launched in 2015 and already includes deep cleaning with hospital-grade disinfectants in guest rooms and public spaces.

Enhanced procedures to address COVID-19 concerns include: •Temperature checks for both hotel colleagues and guests.

• Reduced contact and physical interaction at check-in and check-out.

• Social distancing protocols and visual cues.

• Visible sanitiser stations in public and colleague spaces.

• New cleaning procedures with increased disinfection frequency of high-touch surfaces.

• Upgraded laundry protocol.

• Removal of non-essential items (in-room collateral or other high-touch items), available upon request.

• Meals charged to room or credit card vs cash.

• Contactless menu and payment methods.

New expert cleanliness partner and Global Cleanliness Board: In addition to IHG’s existing relationships with Ecolab and Diversey, IHG is now partnering with Cleveland Clinic to expand the IHG Way of Clean programme with new

18 July 2020

One of the most important areas we focussed on was our IHG culture of Clean implementation as it impacts the safety of our guests and colleagues.

We have utilised the time to re-train and re-enforce the ‘back to basics’ of all positions to ensure we deliver not only great but also safe guest experiences, today and going forward.

science-led protocols and service measures.

IHG Clean Promise: IHG has launched a Clean Promise that was rolled out globally in June. The group has partnered with companies such as Ecolab and Diversey to develop science-backed safety measures. The strengthened measures have been designed to give returning guests greater confidence in IHG’s portfolio of hotels. Hygiene measures include reduced contact at check-in; touchless transactions; sanitiser stations; paperless checkout; reduction of hightouch items in rooms; additional deep cleaning; social distancing signage and new rulings for F&B outlets. Alongside these measures, IHG has teamed with Cleveland Clinic to produce a set of guidelines for hotel teams on returning to work. These guidelines include the deployment of ‘Clean Champions’ at properties to monitor hygiene levels and help make guests feel comfortable in the updated environment. www.bahrainthismonth.com

hotels feature

THE WAY FORWARD Philipp Economou, area GM of InterContinental Regency Bahrain, tells of new developments at his property.

InterContinental Regency has curated a delivery-focused menu with its popular signature dishes from its restaurants with prices that are different for the online delivery model. While the actual experience of dining at the hotel cannot be replicated, one can savour the InterContinental dining experience in the comfort of their home, bringing fond memories of dining at our restaurants. We have also created an exclusive party platter menu perfect for business lunches, tailgate parties, the beach and more! All of these are at the tip of your fingers through food apps such as Talabat and Careem, both for delivery. Our menu includes a range of international, Arabic and Indian dishes.

Regarding preparations for reopening of our spa and restaurants, we are committed to complying with recommended health standards and are working closely with local

authorities for the safety and wellbeing of all our guests and employees. In addition to local health standards, from June 1, the IHG Clean Promise has been rolled out globally.

We have ensured that all safety guidelines and signages are installed and our staff have been training for the last few weeks on social distancing protocols, specifically in the restaurants. We will be limiting the number of customers coming in to make sure we prioritise their safety. We have also prepared various promotions that are timely and relevant to the current situation.

The most important point is that we need to prepare out teams to face the new normality and win back hotel guests’ hearts and minds.

One of the most important areas in which we focussed the development of our team was our IHG culture of Clean implementation. Training

such as IHG Way of Clean for housekeeping and non-housekeeping colleagues was top of our agenda. Cleanliness is now a shared responsibility across all hotel teams and everyone is expected to change behaviours and adhere to our enhanced guidance, therefore all management and housekeeping associates have completed the enhanced IHG Way of Clean training relevant to their role.

Here is how the Clean Promise will work at the Bahrain properties: Within two hours of check-in, if a guest reports to the front desk that their room does not meet the IHG Clean Promise the hotel must confirm the issue and resolve to their satisfaction in the current room or offer a room change to alternative accommodation of equal or greater value that meets the IHG Clean Promise. If the guest opts for a room change, a member of the hotel team must be available to accompany them to the new room to ensure the IHG Clean Promise has been met. If there is not another available guest room of equal or greater value, the hotel team must work with the guest to make it right.

These additional measures aim to build on the group’s existing best-in-class approach to cleanliness to help travellers feel safe.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2020 19

HOT FEA ELS TU R E

SAFETY FOR ALL Pasquale Baiguera, GM of Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain, explains how his property is responding to the COVID-19 situation.

D

uring this difficult time of pandemic for everyone and all the hotels, we’re grateful to our loyal guests who have bestowed us with their trust and chosen to stay with us. We are also pleased to share that the new operational standards being implemented at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain, and at Accor properties across the Middle East and Africa, were developed in partnership with hygiene solutions specialist Bureau Veritas, a world leader in testing, inspections and certification. Furthermore, a global partnership has been developed with global insurance giant AXA to provide guests with free medical support that includes consultations with medical professionals by phone or in the location where they are staying, that’s all under the ALLSAFE safety programme. At each touchpoint along the guest journey in our hotel, extensive measures are being taken to protect guests and team members, including:

• Hands-on training for all employees, a

dedicated on-property rollout committee and a formal audit programme, validated under the global ALLSAFE Cleanliness label, ensure initial and continued compliance.

20 July 2020

• The appointment of specially trained ‘All

Safe Officers’ to oversee all cleaning-related hotel operations, preventative measures and to handle guest enquiries.

• Free health virtual support with AXA. • Physical distancing marks throughout the hotel and dining outlets.

• All our rooms and public spaces are sanitised and disinfected upon each guest stay by a certified company.

• Masks and gloves provided to guests and worn by all employees.

• Assisted contactless check-in and check-out.

• Virtual restaurant and in-room dining menus.

All our employees are fully trained and have received intensive safety and hygiene programmes. Moreover, we have organised several professional training sessions which have been conducted by medical team experts.

Everybody in our team is responsible for ensuring the implementation of cleaning and hygiene protocols to the highest standards as well as assisting guests with any questions

regarding our new procedures.

We launched our take-away food service in April and guests can order our delicious dishes daily. They are served in a disposable package and ensure the highest standards of safety.

While we are waiting for the new government instructions in regard to our dining outlets, we have already simulated different seating capacity lay outs according to the possible new safety measures and social distancing requirements. All our menus will be digital and guests can access them easily via their smart phones. All our dining outlets, rooms and public areas are disinfected repeatedly. We are also looking into upgrading the spa menu and implementing new hygiene safety measurements in the health club and recreation areas. www.bahrainthismonth.com

HOT FEA ELS TU R E

COMMITTED TO A SAFE STAY Sammy Gani, who is the Complex General Manager for Westin and Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain, tells us how things have been going at the properties, which are attached to the Kingdom’s largest mall.

Have you had any guests staying during the pandemic and, if yes, what measures have been taken to keep them and your staff safe?

cases and following the guidelines from these agencies and the local health departments on appropriate hygiene standards.

Yes, we do have some guests staying with us.

As a part of Marriott International, our company introduced Marriott’s Commitment to Clean, a new initiative that aligns with expert health and safety protocols. We’re working to provide a cleaner, safer environment for our guests and our associates through step-by-step procedures laid out for all hotels to follow. You can find out more on a video available at https://bit.ly/MIClean

As part of our housekeeping operations, we have a comprehensive set of cleaning protocols. We have also taken several immediate precautionary hygiene measures including additional cleaning across all public areas.

The wellbeing of our guests and associates is of paramount importance. We take our standards for hygiene and cleanliness extremely seriously. We have been closely monitoring the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organisation’s statements regarding coronavirus (COVID-19)

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Have you launched any new takeaway/delivery options in your restaurants?

We have new menus available for takeaway at Furn Bakery, some of our most popular takeaway items are our mezzah and freshly baked mini pizzas, manakeesh and fateer.

How are you preparing for the reopening of spas and restaurants?

Pre-arranged safety and cleaning protocols will be followed as soon as we are allowed to

re-open all these areas.

There are ongoing re-opening procedures that we are undergoing especially for the restaurants. These include a food safety audit and complete training for the team on social distancing, cleaning and disinfecting. All our associates are given specific departmental training to ensure their areas are cleaned and they are trained to take care of themselves and our guests.

The Westin City Centre Bahrain offers 200 beautifully appointed guest rooms, including six Executive Suites and one Royal Suite. All rooms feature the company’s signature amenities such as the plush Westin Heavenly beds and the reinvigorating Heavenly Baths.

The Heavenly Spa by Westin features 10 treatment rooms with separate facilities for men and women, plus one of Bahrain’s largest hammams (Turkish baths).

July 2020 21

HOT FEA ELS TU R E GUEST SAFETY A PRIORITY GM, Mehdi Hanayen, outlines the infection-fighting procedures in place at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa.

O

ur hotel is currently operating as normal.

We are closely monitoring the situation and liaising with local authorities to ensure the safety and security of our guests and teams. Accor, the management company’s, first priority is the security of its guests and team members.

At the time of check-in, employees need to make sure guests are wearing masks and gloves and use hand sanitisers. Social distancing must be applied across the entire hotel, including the beach.

I am pleased to share our new operational standards being implemented at Sofitel Bahrain and at Accor properties across the Middle East and Africa, in partnership with hygiene solutions specialist Bureau Veritas, a world leader in testing, inspections and certification. Furthermore, a global partnership has been forged with global insurance giant AXA to provide guests with free medical support that includes consultations with medical professionals by phone or at the location where they are staying.

At each touchpoint along the guest journey through Sofitel Bahrain, extensive protective measures are being taken: • Hands-on training for all employees, a dedicated on-property rollout committee and a formal audit programme, validated under the global (Accor) ALLSAFE Cleanliness label, ensure initial and continued compliance.

• The appointment of specially trained ‘ALL Safe Officers’ to oversee all cleaning-related hotel operations, preventative measures and to handle guest enquiries.

• Free health support with AXA (starting from July 2020), including access to medical professionals and consultations by phone or 22 July 2020

at the location.

• Social distancing protocols and distancing stanchion chords in place.

• Masks and gloves provided to guests and worn by all employees.

• Assisted contactless check-in and check-out.

• Virtual restaurant and in-room dining menus.

In preparation for the re-opening of our restaurants and spa, we have already prepared the following Standard Operating Procedures that will be followed strictly, in conjunction with the Ministry of Health’s official protocols: • Social distancing standards for employees in communal staff areas (such as pantry).

• Provide staff with a list and talking points on how to handle guest inquiries regarding sanitation, new policies, etc.

• Identify the protocol for employees to follow if they or a guest become ill or present signs of illness.

• Determine how social distancing requirements will be monitored and the process for managing guests who do not follow the requirements.

• Determine how capacity restrictions will be monitored and who will be responsible for this.

• Educate staff about updated sanitation practices and policies, including handling guest inquiries about those practices and policies such as: - Distinction between cleaning, disinfecting and sanitation.

- Measures for protecting themselves, including: • Effective hand washing practices.

• Proper personal protective equipment use, including accepted face mask types.

• Updated treatment protocols.

• No-touch greeting policies.

Proper use of disinfectants and other issues including: • Establish staff areas of responsibility for cleaning and sanitation.

• Attendants must develop sanitation schedule corresponding to areas of responsibility.

• Provide proper hygiene stations for employees and moisturisers for their comfort to eliminate dry, chapped hands.

• Establish wellness and sanitation ‘check-in’ procedure at start of shifts, including temperature check if applicable.

In terms of staff training, our hotel has been issued with instructions on how to implement additional hygiene procedures including cleaning and disinfection; and how to identify and manage any suspected cases. Rigorous hygiene is one of the best ways to avoid the spread of such viruses. We are in close communication with our travel partners and agents to provide up-to-date guidance on this situation as it evolves.

Sofitel Bahrain’s award-winning restaurants have collectively introduced a brand new Magnifique Takeaway and Home Delivery menu, hygienically packaged and cooked to perfection.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HOT FEA ELS TU R E

INDUSTRY-LEADING STANDARDS Kumar Ashwani, GM of Asdal Gulf Inn (AGI), explains the procedures he has put in place.

Have you had any guests staying during the pandemic and, if yes, what measures have been taken to keep them and your staff safe?

Yes, we at AGI are so grateful that some of our valued guests are continuously patronising our hotel even in the time of the pandemic. To ensure the safety of our guests and colleagues, we put in place all possible measures of hygiene and cleanliness to prioritise their health and well-being. In addition, the AGI ensures the implementation all detailed measures complying with the World Health Organisation and Ministry of Health guidelines.

We are maintaining meticulous hygiene and housekeeping standards as we are committed to being an industry leader when it comes to the safety and welfare of our guests and colleagues.

Have you launched any new takeaway/delivery options in your restaurants or other services?

Yes, we cater to our regular clients and also promote takeaway. Our location leads to a

demand to serve coffee and muffins as a great way to start the day.

How are you preparing for the reopening of spas and restaurants?

As previously mentioned, the AGI ensures its compliance with the Ministry of Health directives and part of this is making an action plan, supplementary SOPs (standard operating procedures) and training. In fact, our food and beverage team is conducting regular practice sessions to have effective execution of procedures which ensure the safety of both guests and colleagues. These include training and actual demonstrations, physical distancing guidelines and implementation of measures to physically separate workers and customers by at least two metres such as providing sufficient space, floor markings, coloured tape or signs to guide the guests where to stay or wait. They are also instructed on observation of guests’ health conditions, implementation of

peak-period queuing procedures and the limitation of the number of customers/guests at a single table.

However, we are also waiting guidelines from Ministry of Industry Commerce and Tourism.

THE BEST SOURCE FOR ALL THINGS GIRLY AND FABULOUS

Beauty Fashion Home Wellbeing Local Issues www.womanthismonth.com

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July 2020 23

motoring

MY LIFE IN CARS

Dick Potter reflects on how the virus is affecting the motors industry.

“We’ve got to keep the wheels turning.” This sage advice was recently provided by Jeremy Clarkson. Indeed, we do need to keep the wheels of the motor industry turning – yes undeniably for all industries, but this is a car article, you understand.

For every employee in the car plant, there are another four reliant on it in the supply chain – some of whom have highly skilled jobs. Once you’ve bought your car, it needs fuel, insurance, servicing and, inevitably, hauling back to the shop for its MoT or other annual check. You get the picture of employment in the motor industry then.

Pre-Covid (if you’re struggling to remember that era, you’re not alone I assure you) the motor industry in the UK provided employment for about 800,000 people. However, post-Covid (whatever that may look like, and whenever it happens) the industry reportedly expects approximately 400,000 jobs linked to the motor trade to be at risk.

However, Jeremy Clarkson has a solution to these potential redundancies. He claims that if we all sign on the dotted line for a “new set of wheels”, we’ll be helping keep these employees in their motoring jobs and off benefit payments and thus “… keep the wheels turning”.

I was amazed to read that only 197 cars have been made in the UK since the pandemic lockdown. To put that number into context, the UK usually produces about 1.5 million cars per year. It’s not rocket science then, that if cars aren’t made, they can’t be sold. Subsequently, one of the largest car dealerships in the UK is set to cut 1,500 jobs and 12 dealerships.

This group apparently plans to either close branches, merge them with other showrooms or refranchise them.

Many other firms are already making job cuts also. Between them, McLaren, Aston Martin and Bentley purportedly aim to cut around 3,000 positions.

24 July 2020

Undoubtedly, every sector of the car industry would be rapturous if we all dashed off to buy a new car, but do you get the notion Jeremy’s forgetting something? Where exactly are ordinary folk supposed to get the money for these brand-new wheels in these times? (Most especially the McLaren, Aston or Bentley?!)

Clearly the majority aren’t stampeding off to buy a new car – to date, new car registrations are down 89 per cent from the total number registered in 2019. However, given the current discussions underway in the UK regarding a £1.5. billion injection which includes a ‘cash for clunkers’ scheme – like that used a decade ago to revitalise the market – new car sales might just shoot up before the year is out.

British motor industry; however, the motoring sector is very important to every country.

Apart from wholesale, retail and repair of cars – just think of the multitude of garages, to say nothing of the swathes of car wash chappies that would be affected here? It’s fair to say many of us are not regulars on public transport and rely heavily on our cars – I use the plural as it’s a rare household here that doesn’t have more than one vehicle. How then do the car dealerships propose to keep the new wheels continuing to turn on our sunny island, I wonder?

It’s an industry we simply cannot allow to run on empty. Meanwhile, I’m just sending Jeremy Clarkson a reminder that my birthday was in April – so he can send me that new set of wheels and I promise to do my bit to keep them turning!

Happy motoring all. dick@redhousemarketing.com

View more info online

I do concede this article chiefly concerns the www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring news

TO THE RESCUE

Hyundai Motor Company is to donate medical equipment and personal protection items worth USD2.4 million to countries across the Middle East and Africa in an effort to help tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

With thousands of people being affected across the world, Hyundai has stepped up its efforts by purchasing over 603,000 items that will benefit the front-line medical workers and the public across 37 countries.

The contribution includes the distribution of 445,500 face masks, 100,000 industrial masks, 25,000 hand sanitisers, 32,500 protective suits and 43 ambulances across 37 countries in the Middle East and Africa.

respective government and non-government organisations.

Bang Sun Jeong, Vice President, Head of Hyundai Motor Company Middle East & Africa HQs, said: “Caring for humanity has always been at the heart of Hyundai’s vision and having assisted those in need in countries around the world, we are proud to expand our support to countries across the Middle East and Africa region that have been hardest hit by the pandemic.

All the equipment will be distributed by the

“We hope this pandemic can soon come to an end and we can help people get back to their daily lives.”

RECOGNITION FOR FLAGSHIP SUV The fourth generation of Kia’s flagship SUV, the Sorento, has been named the ‘All-Wheel Drive Car of the Year 2020’ in the Auto Bild Allrad contest.

The vehicle, which recently celebrated its world premiere via Facebook livestream, is due on-sale in select MEA markets in the third quarter of 2020.

“As a thoroughly modern SUV, the impressive features and dynamic and elegant design of the Sorento have won over car enthusiasts across the world. We are grateful and proud of this particular award as it marks a new chapter in the history of Kia’s successful SUV flagship,” said Yaser Shabsogh, Chief Operating Officer, Regional HQs, Middle East & Africa.

The design of the new model is based on the powerful, robust aesthetics of previous Sorento generations, but sharper lines and edges and more dynamic proportions give it a distinctly sporty touch. The fourth-generation Sorento is also the first Kia constructed in the manufacturer’s new mid-range SUV platform, enabling its new proportions and space-efficient integration with electrified powertrains.

STEPPING BACK TO NORMAL

After a production suspension period caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Mercedes-Benz car plants have successfully restarted worldwide production step by step. Towards the end of April, the engine and component plants in Germany gradually resumed production first, followed by the Mercedes-Benz car assembly plants. The production ramp-up is designed to be flexible to be able to react to current developments and country-specific regulations. In resuming production in a coordinated manner, Mercedes-Benz is continuing its product and electric offensive and thereby also serving its largest sales market in China, where the company is seeing a significant increase in demand again.

Mercedes-Benz Cars Operations (MO) is responsible for passenger car production at more than 30 locations around the world. Production in China has been gradually resumed since February. All other international locations have been running since the middle of April. These include the plants in Sebes Cugir, Romania, that manufacture transmissions; the Mercedes-Benz passenger car assembly plants in Kecskemét, Hungary, an important part of the global compact car production network; in Tuscaloosa, USA, the longstanding location for SUV production; and in East London, South Africa, a part of the global production network for the C-Class. The Hambach, France, plant, which produces the electric smart EQ models, has also been gradually ramping up operations since the beginning of June.

To protect its employees, the company has taken precautions to prevent infection and has agreed on a comprehensive set of measures with the General Works Council, which were introduced in the plants.

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July 2020 25

motoring news

NEW TECH TEAM

Two months after taking office as the new CEO at Audi, Markus Duesmann is setting up a unit for the accelerated development of additional automobile models.

The head of the ‘Artemis’ high-tech project will be Alex Hitzinger, a successful motorsport chief engineer and currently in charge of autonomous driving in the group. He will work with a team of automotive and technology experts to, as a first step, “develop a pioneering model for Audi quickly and unbureaucratically,” says Duesmann. The resources and technologies of the entire Volkswagen Group are potentially available for this.

Duesmann and his Volkswagen Group colleagues also expect the ‘Artemis’ project to provide a blueprint for the future agile development of cars throughout the group.

He says: “With 75 planned electric models by 2029, the current electric initiative at the Volkswagen Group naturally ties up all our capacities. The obvious question was how we could implement additional high-tech benchmarks without jeopardising the manageability of existing projects, and at the same time utilise new opportunities in the markets.”

‘Artemis’ will focus on new technologies for electric, highly automated driving with a specific model reference. Its first task is to create a highly efficient electric car that is scheduled to be on the road as early as 2024. The creative team will also develop an extensive ecosystem around the car, thus designing a new business model for the entire usage phase.

FASTER, SMARTER ROBOTS

NEW HYBRID SUV UNVEILED

Ebrahim K. Kanoo has launched Toyota’s latest hybrid-electric vehicle, the all-new 2020 Toyota Highlander.

In the future, the BMW Group will be increasing its use of highperformance computer technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in logistics. Top priorities include intelligent logistics robots, data analytics and the high-definition simulation of logistics processes.

These AI applications can optimise robotics and material flow, as well as take simulations in the planning process to a new level.

In a first pilot project, the BMW Group has equipped logistics robots and smart transport robots (STR), developed in-house, with highperformance technology and special AI modules.

This improves the robots’ coordination as well as their ability to recognise people and objects compared to the technology used previously. The enhancements to the navigation system allow robots to identify obstacles such as forklifts, tugger trains and people faster and more clearly, which makes it possible to calculate alternative routes in a matter of milliseconds.

26 July 2020

The vehicle’s drive personality is brought to life by a new electrified hybrid system that combines two power sources. The 2.5-litre petrol engine produces 183hp and is paired with two electric motors that generate 191hp. With a combined power of 240hp, they are capable of delivering a maximum torque figure of 231nm. The system is mated to a direct-shift Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which contributes to a minimum fuel consumption value of 20km/L in the model equipped with Intelligent AWD. Drivers can also select from eco, normal and sport driving modes to suit their driving styles.

The car’s cabin includes a range of advanced features, including a dualzone automatic air conditioning system. The cluster gauge features a seven-inch colour multi-information display (MID), which is complemented by an eight-inch display audio system, a large coloured head-up display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

There is an advanced safety technology package that includes PreCollision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with AllSpeed Range, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Automatic High Beam (AHB) as well as numerous other features.

The vehicle comes in eight distinctive exterior colours. www.bahrainthismonth.com

commerce

RARING TO RALLY Bahrain Raid Xtreme (BRX) is the Kingdom’s new team and car set to make its debut in next year’s Dakar Rally. The team is the island’s latest foray into the motorsport world after its sovereign wealth fund, Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat), established Prodrive International, a joint venture with the worldleading British motorsport business, Prodrive. BRX’s bespoke Dakar Rally T1 car builds on Prodrive’s experience competing at the highest levels of world motorsport for over three decades. BRX has chosen to create a four-wheel drive car, powered by a 3.5 litre turbo-charged petrol V6. Development of the car and engine has been underway at Prodrive since mid-2019, and the first vehicle is currently being assembled in Banbury, UK. Leading the project is David Richards CBE, founder and chairman of Prodrive, taking up the role of BRX Team Director. The BRX T1 car sports a striking red livery, combined with styling evolved by Callum, one of the world’s leading automotive designers.

FITNESS GONE DIGITAL Internationally acclaimed Brazilian Jiu jitsu (BJJ) athlete and World Champion, Bahraini Ali Monfaradi, has launched the region’s first Jiu jitsu online course platform – Elements Online. He says: “The change in consumer behaviour means that the fitness sector needs to accelerate its digitisation efforts. This is a project that has been in the works for a long time and I’m very proud to be the first regional BJJ athlete to have created a platform with original Jiu jitsu training material that can be accessed worldwide.” BJJ’s online courses have traditionally been created and launched by a handful of top-tier international athletes and brands, and this unique initiative is a testament to the growth of Jiu jitsu in the GCC through the accomplishments of its athletes. The first course launched on the platform is beginner’s guide to Jiu jitsu fundamentals, titled Everything You Need To Know Before Getting Your Blue Belt, spanning 13 chapters and 65 lessons.

RELEVANT VIRTUAL FORUM Under the patronage of the Central Bank of Bahrain, the Bahrain Institute for Banking & Finance (BIBF) held a one-day virtual forum, Achieving Excellence in a Pandemic, powered by Batelco, on June 24. With the attendance of more than 350 executives and business professionals from various sectors around the world, the forum provided an outlook on COVID-19 from a national and global perspective, as well as shed light on how to overcome challenges and attain business continuity. This initiative was launched in alignment with national efforts to support organisations during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a main aim of providing continuous education and training support to the business community. The forum provided an interactive and stimulating learning experience ranging from keynote sessions, expert panel discussions, and specialised parallel training workshops, where participants got the opportunity to select the breakout session of their interest that met their requirements, and were encouraged to discuss, share their experiences, and ask questions.

A GREEN TURN Bahrain-based Gulf Aluminium Rolling Mill Company (Garmco), which is one of the largest downstream facilities in the Middle East, has embarked on a transformative role in shaping the climate agenda through the Garmco Green Initiative that sets the stage in steering the company’s vision for a sustainable future in a tangible direction. Garmco has been at the forefront of developing some of the most high-quality products from recycled aluminium and ensuring that energy efficiency is at the heart of the way production processes are conducted. This initiative is the result of years of best practice in eco-friendly processes and provides the template for the company’s new strategic direction of being a champion of environmental causes. The mill has been praised for injecting greater environmental controls across its operations – not only in the use of more scrap but also in promoting recycling as a strategic necessity. www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2020 27

commerce

GREAT WINNINGS Gulf International Bank (GIB) has been honoured on two prestigious platforms; Global Trade Review 2020 Awards and Global Finance’s The Innovators 2020. GIB was named ‘Leader in Trade for Bahrain’ for the year 2020 by Global Trade Review. The prestigious awards recognise GIB’s position as Bahrain’s most innovative bank for trade finance products and services, which it offers to clients across the GCC and MENA region. The bank also won two awards at Global Finance’s The Innovators 2020, where the bank’s

supply chain finance capabilities were recognised. In the Trade Finance category, GIB won ‘Best Electronic Supply Chain Finance Solution’ award underscoring the bank’s market leadership in supply chain finance and its position among some of the largest global and regional trade finance banks. The second award was in the Islamic Finance category, where GIB was recognised for innovation in ‘Digitising Umrah Payments’ for a large public sector entity in Saudi Arabia.

NEW LEARNING COURSES The American University of Bahrain (AUBH) has expanded its portfolio of academic offerings with the introduction of two new degree programmes - Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

The courses will begin in September 2020 and enrollment is now open. This announcement follows the recent news that AUBH is in the process of forming an academic partnership with California State University, Northridge (CSUN), located in the city of Los Angeles. AUBH’s founding president, Dr Susan E Saxton commented: “We are very proud to expand our academic offerings. These new degree programmes offer pathways into rapidly growing sectors, both regionally and globally, and have already received significant interest from applicants. I look forward to welcoming the first of many cohorts to these new programmes.”

FLEET EXTENSION Two Boeing 767-300F aircraft have been added to the MENA air fleet at DHL Express.

This increases DHL’s overall load capacity by over 25 per cent, servicing existing highdemand routes across the GCC, Middle East, Africa and the Indian Subcontinent. The planes will be based at the company’s regional headquarters in Bahrain, thereby giving greater operational efficiency and capacities to meet the surge in customer demand. DHL Aviation Middle East and Africa head Richard Gale said: “In the past six years, in addition to almost doubling DHL Aviation touch points and boosting international flights to over 175 per week, we have consistently increased load capacities to vital trade links such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Lebanon, Jordan, East Africa and on our Asian lanes amongst others, to support the growing logistics needs of our clients for better cross-regional and global connectivity.” Along with DHL’s existing fleet of 767-200SFs operating in the region, the two new Boeings will bring its total fleet size to eight aircraft, while helping to significantly improve fuel efficiency and decreasing carbondioxide emissions.

FALL IN IMPORTS The Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) has announced that Bahrain’s value of imports decreased by 10 per cent during May, reaching BD378 million, compared with BD419 million for the same month last year.

The top 10 countries accounted for 67 per cent of the value of imports, as per the iGA’s foreign trade report of May, encompassing data on the balance of 28 July 2020

trade, imports, exports (national origin), and re-exports. China ranked first in imports to Bahrain, with BD67 million, followed by Australia with BD38 million and Brazil with BD23 million. Aluminum oxide emerged as the top product imported into Bahrain with a total value of BD43 million, while non-agglomerated iron ores and concentrates were second with BD26 million, and four-wheel drive cars third, with BD14 million. www.bahrainthismonth.com

commerce

ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGES

V

ery soon after COVID-19 became part of our regular vocabulary and conversations, another phrase came to the fore – economic stimulus packages announced by governments across the world.

Among the torrential negativity that surrounds the virus, these packages are presumed to be a sort of Noah’s Ark. However, like most such announcements, the negativity around them and the criticisms and shortfalls began even before most people properly understood what they meant.

A lot of time has passed, many governments have learned, tweaked, explained or modified their packages. However, I get a sense that there is still a lack of clarity about what these actually mean for the regular person. Who really gains? What do they gain? What losses are averted? And, what are these packages all about really?

Broadly speaking, stimulus packages across the globe have tried to solve four potential problem areas.

The first, is to reduce obligations payable at an individual or organisational level. Within Bahrain this has taken the form of the government paying the salaries of citizens in both the private and public sectors for three months. This means that for any company, their monthly payroll is reduced by the extent they pay their citizen employees. This can, hopefully, provide a sort of insurance for the non-citizen employees or could incentivise companies to hire citizens more proactively knowing that

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Financial expert Pria Masson Tanwar on understanding the latest buzz phrase. they will be supported by the government.

Second, is helping individuals have more available money from within their existing framework to meet their obligations – financial or operational. Some countries have chosen to make direct cash transfers into citizens’ bank accounts, some have reduced their burden on payments through relief from rent, relief from utility bills like electricity and water (as in Bahrain). This can even take the form of reduced taxes and indirect payment obligations. This is a very direct way of providing relief as it has an immediate impact on the cash outflow of individuals.

Third, is increasing the money available to individuals and companies. This is the aim of making changes to banking policies such as changes in interest rates, lending policies etc.

The aim is to allow greater and easier access to money to encourage spending activity.

Fourth, is an indirect support through monetary support i.e. the government providing guarantees to shoulder the new banking norms, greater defaults and higher risks that the banking system is likely to have to endure. In the absence of this, in practice, the banking system will not be able to alter its customer interaction.

Putting it all together, with the governments providing a backbone of guarantees to the banking system, this system can support retail and corporate loans. These loans allow companies and individuals greater spending power. This, in turn, churns economic growth.

On the other hand, direct benefits such as cash transfers, tax incentives or salary relief provide greater cash flow and reduce the immediate payment obligations. So, if I have an income, I am saving a little more to spend later; or, if I have lost my income, my savings will help me for a little longer.

Nothing about what we are dealing with is ideal. And every single package has issues. But even governments are learning on the job this time. Through all the negative noise, if there is any lesson to be learned it is this: in a crisis, as in life, there are no perfectly right or completely wrong answers. The only perfection one can achieve is in looking for the silver linings and the small wins – because each small step that prevents a mishap, is really a saving grace. The fact that you are healthy, safe and well enough to read this article, is one such grace accorded by the safety provided by the government currently looking after you, wherever you are.

Pria is an Advisor with JEO Capital Management (http://www.jeomanagement. com). You can follow Pria at her Instagram handle money_cues or know more about her professional experience at http://www.i2d-consulting.com

July 2020 29

community news

LAPTOPS FOR LEARNERS AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation announced the successful conclusion of the ‘100 Laptops’ initiative, as it contributed to providing 162 laptops for students.

This exceeded its initial target, after receiving 1,026 applications for a laptop.

The initiative was aimed at facilitating the remote learning process for students helping them to continue their lessons during the schools’ shutdown due to the ongoing pandemic.

On this occasion, Her Highness Shaikha Zain bint Khalid Al Khalifa, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation, said: “We at AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation, are thankful to His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Governor of the Southern Governorate, for his generous donation of 60 laptops, and to KPMG Fakhro for donating 50 laptops. We also appreciate the donation of nine laptops received from AbdulRahim Al-Kooheji Foundation and three from Shaikha Dwa bint Khalid Al Khalifa.

“We look forward to launching more impactful initiatives for the youth and partnering with more institutions in the private sector to improve support for the Kingdom’s future generations.”

COMMUNITY NEWS ELECTRONICS AID The BMMI Group has distributed essential household appliances and electronic devices to disadvantaged families, who are amongst the most vulnerable segments of the population during the challenging times resulting from the coronavirus pandemic.

As part of its commitment to the local community, BMMI’s outreach project supported 230 families with appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, washing machines, ovens and more. The BMMI Group worked with various entities including NGOs, charities and official bodies, such as Tree of Life

and the Capital Governorate.

The company also collaborated with the Rotary Clubs and Rotaract in Bahrain to support a project that saw 120 students receive laptops to ensure they can continue their education through remote learning.

“BMMI has always been committed to supporting the local community, and we are more adamant than ever during these challenging times to make a positive difference, wherever we can,” said BMMI CEO, Marek Sheridan. “I am incredibly proud of how our team have responded and rallied behind these initiatives with all their hard work.”

ROTARY STEPS UP Despite coronavirus restrictions, the Rotary Club of Adliya continued to support the community during the Holy Month of Ramadan by distributing food boxes for needy individuals and families affected by the pandemic.

The boxes were packed with food supplements, medical items, such as masks and sanitisers, and COVID-19 awareness flyers.

The primary host of the project was the Club Foundation Chair of Rotary Club of Adliya, Past President Nazha Abu Hendi, along with committee members. The club forged alliances with local charities to ensure the boxes reached the targeted segments.

As part of its COVID-19 response, the club also took part in a project to distribute laptops and tablets to needy students who require the tools to sustain their virtual education process.

The projects are in line with the Rotary Club serving its purpose for humanitarian and health disaster response, which is one of the Rotarian pillars and values. The club also disseminates educational information regarding the pandemic crisis through flyers in addition to raising more awareness about the (non-governmental organisation) NGOs’ humanitarian roles within the Bahrain community.

“This current project included 95 boxes, however the club aims on further support for the local community through its variety of awareness and funding initiatives,” said Club President, Nijad Al Atassi.

30 July 2020

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Sofitel, the name synonymous with French luxury and Arabic hospitality, has a specially-curated takeaway menu that features some of the best dishes from its Italian restaurant Fiamma’s repertoire.

Location: Zallaq

ART ROTANA

Signature Best sellers For a pizza that is exotic, choose the Ortolana, topped with zucchini, eggplant, radicchio, grilled onions, cherry tomatoes, arugula and extra virgin olive oil.

For something with meat in it, the Quattro Stragioni, with artichoke, turkey ham, black olives and mozzarella, is an ideal choice.

Seeking something truly unique? choose an option from the Pizzoli (Sicilian pizza) category to savour double-layered, parmesan encrusted pizzas.

Call 38 885-789.

Italian eatery Rosso has always been a go-to for discerning guests of ART Rotana. The outlet now offers a takeaway menu that has a sumptuous selection of authentic Italian dishes prepared by Italian chef, Enrico. All pastas and pizzas at Rosso are made with specially imported Italian flour varieties.

Location: Amwaj Islands Signature Best sellers Linguine ai frutti di mare will take you to Sicily, with its flavours of the sea. The sauce is freshly made at the time of order, paired with prawns, calamari, mussels, garlic, cherry tomatoes and parsley and finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil as per true Italian tradition. Pizza Alla Bresaola comprises a tomato sauce made with 100-per-cent Italian tomatoes. All other ingredients, like the fresh basil, extra virgin olive oil, mozzarella, Bresaola (aged dried beef), rucola and Parmigiano Reggiano 24 mesi (parmesan cheese aged for 24 months) come from Italy.

Call 33 580-044.

A rich Mediterranean cuisine, replete with the freshest of produce, the most satiating flavours, heavenly aromas and riots of colour – you guessed right, we’re talking Italian! Walking Italy’s cobbled streets while savouring authentic delicacies passed down through generations is a life experience one must not miss, but when you’re a part of Bahrain’s vibrant dining scene, the restaurants serving Italian treats come a close second.

Here’s a roundup of some of the best Italian eateries and pizzerias around town.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Although this renowned property does not have a dedicated Italian restaurant, the takeaway menu offers delicious Italian fare made under the expert eye of the hotel’s Italian executive chef, Domenico Cicchetti.

Location: Muharraq Signature Best sellers Tuna Carpaccio is a favourite of many, with its thin-sliced fresh tuna on a bed of rocket salad, capper berry, lime segments, green olives, orange zest, cherry tomato, white balsamic reduction with vanilla and juniper.

This dish is delicious over lunch or dinner; a wonderfully simple, light meal that will leave you with a smile on your face.

Call 17 460-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN This landmark city-central property has been satiating guests’ tastebuds at Medzo for a long while, and so that diners don’t miss the taste of five-star level Italian treats, Medzo brings you true Italian tastes to feast on at home.

Location: Manama Signature Best sellers Guests most enjoy the Wagyu Rigatoni Alla Bolognese; a beef ragu with wagyu beef slowcooked for 12 hours in a rich tomato sauce,

basil and parmesan. The tenderness of the wagyu and al dente feel from the rigatoni lend the dish an enjoyable combination of textures.

The Medzo Fantasia Pizza is all about Buffalo mozzarella, Taleggio, mushroom, truffle paste, shrimp and asparagus. This chef’s creation comprises well-harmonised flavours from each of the ingredients - a creamy taste from the mozzarella and taleggio, a hint of truffle scent, a delicate and sweet flavour from shrimp and a touch of an earthy flavour from asparagus.

Call 17 227-777.

July 2020 31

dining

CUCINA ITALIANA

This well-known eatery opened in 2011 with a consistent passion for the Italian lifestyle. It takes great pride in delivering the highest quality dishes prepared with only the freshest and finest hand-picked ingredients, maintaining traditional Italian cooking techniques.

Location: Juffair Signature Best sellers Filetto Di Branzino Con Risotto Di Spinaci is a pan fried fillet of sea bass served on a bed of spinach risotto with sundried tomato pesto, a savoury experience not to be missed. And Angello Arrostito Con La Salsa Di Brown is a charcoal-grilled lamb rack glazed with a rich brown gravy sauce, baby potatoes and green beens wrapped with beef bacon.

Call 17 001-317.

CROWN PIZZA

Satiating Italian cravings outside downtown Manama is Crown Pizza, popular amongst residents of Samaheej, Hidd and Arad.

Location: Hidd Signature Best sellers The Spicy Chicken Ranch pizza is a crowd pleaser, offering tender chicken, mushroom, tomatoes , fresh garlic, jalapeno pepper and ranch sauce drizzled atop a tasty dough. The most ordered combo deal is the Family Feast, that gives customers the choice of two medium-sized pizzas, a salad, chicken wings, potato wedges and a large soft drink bottle.

Call 17 673-736.

FRANCESCO’S PIZZA CAFÉ

The ‘legend of Francesco’ says that Francesco does not cook his pizzas; he merely serenades them to perfection. This restaurant offers diners a bite of Napoli and New York, and this happy fusion has brought customers back for more. The fusion also plays up between art and science, thereby presenting the perfectly mouth-watering pizza crust time and again.

Location: Juffair and Wadi Al Sail Mall Signature Best sellers The Brooklyn Pie Pizza is the perfect combination of meaty and cheesy, made with a garlic-infused tomato base, mozzarella, beef pepperoni, Italian beef sausage, ricotta cheese, topped off with oregano. For a local twist, the Date Palm Pizza is a unique offering made with an olive oil base, mozzarella, dates, rosemary, gorgonzola cheese, bresaola, and a sweet balsamic glaze drizzled after-bake. The Classic Pepperoni Pizza - simple and delicious - is a crowd pleaser, while Garlic Knots served with your choice of marinara sauce or creamy gorgonzola ranch on the side are an ideal appetiser.

Call 17 827-827.

FLORENCE

This restaurant not only paints a pretty picture on a bustling Adliya lane, it also offers a wide variety of dishes rich in flavours and cooked to perfection with the freshest ingredients. The Italian dishes on the menu are much sought-after.

Location: located on Adliya’s main street opposite the Terminal.

Signature Best sellers Diners will find a great variety of Italian dishes. Besides the outlet’s popular thin-crust pizzas, guest favourites are Seafood Risotto, as well as the Spinach-Ricotta Cheese Stuffed Ravioli that comes with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes and walnuts in rose sauce.

Call 17 336-373.

NINO

This restaurant has been a favourite with crowds flocking to its outlets for its extensive, flavour-packed menu that has something for everybody. Besides the usual farinaceous fare, it offers preparations to suit various palates, where the chefs work hard to bring you genuine Italian flavours.

Location: Seef and Riffa

32 July 2020

Signature Best sellers Con Polo is not your regular pizza, but goes the extra mile with confit chicken and fontina cheese and basil pesto. Besides Skillet Lasagna Classica and Farfelle Al Forno, the Melanzane; roasted half aubergine with fresh basil pesto topped with mozzarella and cherry tomato is a top favourite. Don’t miss their sinful desserts, like Red Velvet Cheese Cake and Caramel Macchiato Tiramisu.

Call 17 566-555. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining

URBAN SLICE PIZZA

Urban Slice is a New York-style pizzeria offering a wide range of hand tossed pizzas, famous for it’s signature range that is based on flavourful homemade sauces. This two-chain restaurant is known as the Home of Bahrain’s largest pizza, with the XXXL size being a gigantic 20-inch pizza pie. Their pizzas are so huge and filling, customers can also order by the slice.

Location: Juffair and Riffa Signature Best sellers From the eight signature pizza varieties, the all-time favourite is The All American Cheese Burger Pizza – adorned with ground beef, pickles, tomatoes, onions and a secret All-American sauce.

Call Juffair 17 292-971, Riffa 17 262-671 or Muharraq 17 554-471

CICO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

FATTO PIZZERIA & TRATTORIA

This restaurant goes way back, opened in 1978 to serve the island’s residents a blend of northern and southern Italian cuisine, each of the dishes superlative in both taste and texture. The restaurant has an established reputation for offering consistency of service and delectable fare prepared from the freshest produce.

This pizzeria and trattoria, designed to resemble a restored old Italian flour factory, offers diners a modern take on classic Italian dishes. The menu sports unique dishes created with authentic Italian flavours in mind.

Location: Adliya

Location: Seef

Signature Best sellers Guests particularly enjoy the Cernia Alla Griglia, a roasted fresh hammour fillet with lemon, garlic and parsley sauce, as well as the Cotoletta Alla Milanese, which is pan-cooked, breaded Dutchville (beef) served with spaghetti. The Scaloppine Al Limone, which is veal with white grape, lemon and parsley, is also a signature creation.

Call 17 713-710.

Signature Best sellers If you fancy an Italian breakfast to start your day with, go for the Toast Francese Alla Nutella, which simply translates to Nutella-stuffed French toast with raspberry and vanilla ice cream, coated in caramelised hazelnuts and toffee sauce.

Lunch and dinner can be leisurely affairs with the evergreen Margherita Pizza, made with San Marzano tomato sauce, mozzarella and cherry tomatoes, or if pasta is your pick, then Penne Al Forno, baked with its pink sauce, chicken, mushroom, mozzarella and oregano is a firm favourite.

Call 66 778-822.

OLIVETO

The eatery prides itself on being a unique, fine-dining Italian restaurant with authentic and delicious dishes to satisfy all palates. The Oliveto experience enhances your five senses with a passionate and diversified approach to cuisine from the old country.

Location: Adliya Signature Best sellers Oliveto’s Vongole Pasta shows diners Venetian dreams in Bahrain; handmade www.bahrainthismonth.com

spaghetti with sautéed fresh clams and extra virgin olive oil, taking you to Italy, one spoon at a time. The Fritto Di Calamari E Gamberi is another island favourite, bursting with flavour and crunch. Fried fresh calamari and shrimp with lemon and tartar sauce never fails to please. To finish your meal, the Lava Cake oozes with the goodness of cacao and a light ice-cream for a fine balance of flavours.

Call 17 716-747.

July 2020 33

gadgets

GADGETS

8Bitdo DPad USB Hub It’s not hard to stay powered up and connected with this USB hub that gets back to that most basic of gaming controls: the directional pad. Featuring three USB 2.0 inputs and a transfer rate of 480Mbps, the directional arrows even light up when a device is connected so you can see that the power is flowing.

Available at: www.thinkgeek.com

Spy Pen Looking first and foremost like a normal, very stylish pen, the Spy Pen has some cunning surprises tucked away. Not only is it a nice pen to write with, it will also capture video with audio at 640 x 480 video or still images at 1.3 megapixels. Just click the button on the top to start or stop recording, or switch to photo mode and click once to take a photo to the included 4GB of memory. Once done, unscrew it and pop it into your computer’s USB drive.

Available at: www.red5.co.uk 34 July 2020

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

Daptly Daptly is a gesture- and voice-controlled smart display that blends perfectly into your home or office. The display can recognise who is in front of it using facial recognition to give each user access to a personal dashboard, allowing you to control your home and interact with it in ways beyond just a touch screen.

Available at: www.daptly.com

Spectraboom The Spectraboom is modelled after the boomboxes of yore but with a number of important improvements, not least the multi-coloured lights built into the speakers. You’ll also no longer have to rely on having a stack of mixtapes in your bag – the Spectraboom is compatible with your smartphone via Bluetooth and also has an AUX input for any other devices you may have, as well as an FM radio. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 30 hours.

Available at: www.amazon.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

gadgets

Thumb Chucks Each ball features built in LEDs which kick in whenever they are hit, making night time performances even more magical. Roll, drop, catch and spin the Thumb Chucks around your hand to create a mesmerising show that will look super easy but require maximum skills.

Available at: www.red5.co.uk

Samsung Gear 360 - The world in 360 degrees.

The future will be filmed in 360 degrees. Samsung has announced a new and compact camera that’s capable of filming everything thanks to two lenses. Called the Gear 360, the little sphere is designed to sit on a table or tripod or even hang from a drone and capture 360 degrees of video - you know, content perfect for viewing on your Samsung Gear VR. Available at: www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/gear-360

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Jack - Make any headphones wireless.

Jack lets you add Bluetooth capabilities to any audio device, so you no longer have to let your cable control you!

Available at: ezshopex.com

Pons - A bed with USB ports This bed features four built-in USB ports so you can charge up at night, and features the Pons proprietary bedding and pillow technology that eradicates heat and compliments the contours of your body for optimal pressure point relief and freedom of movement.

Available at: www.kck.st/2kk1QhO

Ikea Trådfri Ikea’s own smart lighting system, Ikea Trådfri, is similar to other connected lighting systems like Philips Hue. The light bulbs come with a remote, which you most probably won’t be needing since you can control everything from the smartphone application that is being frequently updated to add more and more functionality!

Available at: www.ikea.com/gb/en/products/lighting/smart-lighting/

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2020 35

games

GAMES

Maneater WHAT IS IT?

This is a third-person action role-playing game in which the player assumes control of a baby bull shark who must take revenge on a shark hunter named Scaly Pete, who killed its mother and disfigured it. The shark has several basic attacks, including charging into enemies, launching out of the water and whipping enemies with its tail to stun them. It can also use its surroundings for combat advantages, such as using a swordfish as a spear.

GAMEPLAY

Sadly, the game’s fun is also its main limitation as ultimately, it’s just as single-minded as its predator protagonist. The vast, vast majority of what you’ll do in Maneater is “go here, kill X of this animal or people”. Objectives, by way of combat, that’re as deep as a puddle, broken up by some amusing exploration and gathering of collectibles. There simply isn’t enough gameplay variety to justify the massive amount of chomping you have to do to reach Megalodon status.

GRAPHICS

You start out your shark life roaming the fresh waters of a Louisiana bayou as a youngster and the map almost immediately starts to reveal its surprising diversity. Across eight zones, we see everything from the open sea to shallow and narrow waterways, and they’re all loaded with unexpectedly interesting stuff and interconnected with sewer pipe mazes and underwater caves.

These waters are teeming with wildlife, most of which is beautifully rendered and animated. Even out of the water there’s a ton to see, so it’s always worth cruising around on the surface for a while in each area.

BIOSHOCK: THE COLLECTION

For the first time on Nintendo Switch, experience the unforgettable worlds and monumental stories of the awardwinning BioShock series. Journey to the cities of Rapture and Columbia across BioShock Remastered, BioShock 2 Remastered and BioShock Infinite: The Complete Edition, including all single-player add-on content. Fight for your life and outsmart your enemies, be it deep beneath the waves or high above the clouds.

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VERDICT:

A bizarre yet unique experience

RATING:

MINECRAFT DUNGEONS

Minecraft Dungeons is an action-adventure game, inspired by classic dungeon crawlers and set in the Minecraft universe.

You will constantly discover new weapons and items that will help you defeat a ruthless swarm of new and nasty mobs. You’ll fight or flee through canyons, swamps and – of course – mines! You can brave the dungeons alone, or team up with up to four friends.

DISINTEGRATION

Disintegration is a first-person shooter that incorporates elements of real-time strategy games. Directed by the co-creator of Halo, Marcus Lehto, the game features similarly intriguing sci-fi elements, where you play as a group of humans-turned-robotic outlaws striving to reclaim control over society from a militant superpower bent on converting humanity into robots.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

websites

websites

littlealchemy2.com

This one is a fun little time killer. As its name suggests, the website deals with the process of transformation you achieve when you start mixing different things. You start with Earth, Fire, Water and Air. The goal is to create as many different materials or objects as possible. For example, earth and air will form dust. There are no rules, just mix and match your creations to create new ones. You will not even know where your time went.

nautil.us

A great place to read informative and impeccably written articles dealing with a multitude of topics which can be broadly divided into science, history, psychology and autobiography. If you are looking to learn while passing time, there’s no better place.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

hotspot3d.com

Imagine a situation where you want to buy a smartphone out of a bunch of notable picks but can’t decide which one can offer the best value for your money.

Wouldn’t it be better if you could get a handy tool that can let you quickly compare smartphones? Well, this is where Hotspot 3D has a role to play as it helps you compare devices in 3D so that it becomes a tad easier for you to decide which one can meet your demands.

the-toast.net

This one is for all the aspiring writers out there. The website publishes stories covering books and the characters inside them. It’s kind of a daily blog which always provides you with interesting insights about a book or its author. There are other forms of articles too, but this is the most prevalent. Get a daily dose for your writing inspiration here.

July 2020 37

APPS REVIEW BTM BRINGS YOU THE LOW-DOWN ON THE LATEST AND GREATEST APPS ON THE MARKET.

APP: CALM Taking a moment of calm can be crucial for your mental health, and Calm is one of the leading meditation and sleeppromotion apps available.

It has guided meditations, breathing exercises to reduce anxiety, sleep stories and more. There are guides for beginners and experts alike, and while you’ll need to pay to get access to most, there’s still a lot here for free users who aren’t sure if they’ll enjoy it.

APP: FABULOUS – MOTIVATE ME! With science-based coaching as its backbone, Fabulous – Motivate Me! will help instil healthy, positive habits and routines into your life. This includes everything from better sleep to sticking to a morning routine, finding time for creativity, daily meditation, losing weight and more.

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APP: STRAFE ESPORTS If you love to keep up with the latest news and scores from your favourite esports, then give Strafe Esports a try. It covers news from a variety of games, including League of Legends, Hearthstone and Rocket League – and it even allows you to gamify your esports experience with a system that pits your predictions against other people’s. If you’re a lover of esports, or are just curious, this is worth downloading.

APP: DAILY YOGA Yoga is unbelievably powerful. It strengthens your core, increases flexibility and focus and decreases stress. Plus, it can help you lose weight and stay healthy. This app will guide you through daily yoga routines of varying difficulty and length and also provides step-by-step HD videos showing exactly how to do each pose. www.bahrainthismonth.com

music

Run the Jewels

RTJ4 Arriving earlier than expected as both a global pandemic and a nationwide movement against police brutality gripped the United States, RTJ4 distils the anger and frustration of the people through Run the Jewels’ hard-hitting, no-nonsense revolution anthems. Trim with no filler, this fourth set from the outspoken duo provides relevant history lessons that are more useful than a classroom textbook. Rousing and lyrically dexterous, Killer Mike and El-P deliver their densest collection yet, balancing clever lyrics with tongue-twisting rhymes decrying police brutality, systemic racism, class injustice and a litany of other ills plaguing the nation. RTJ4 rarely strays from the intensely political; when it does, the duo shine with boastful quips and chest-thumping bravado.

Lady Gaga Chromatica Verdict:

Another knock-out blow from the pop queen.

What’s the story?

Chromatica is the sixth studio album by American phenomenon Lady Gaga. The record is a dance-pop, synth-pop and electropop album, incorporating elements of EDM, house and many other electronic genres. Lyrically, it covers themes such as mental health, depression, loneliness, finding love through hardship, PTSD due to sexual assault and self-worth; which stands in contrast with the positive and uptempo sound of the album. The release features guest vocals from Ariana Grande, Blackpink and Elton John.

Worth a listen?

Chromatica is a comeback album from an artist who has never gone away and never experienced a dip in popularity.

By dedicating the entirety of her sixth proper studio set to club music, she’s effectively declaring that she’s come in from the cold, but the old-school showbiz moves that made her beloved of old-timers can be heard by how she slyly finds cameo space for her spiritual godfather Elton John and Ariana Grande, the biggest star in dance-pop in 2020. Gaga stands proudly between these two poles, hipper than John but sounding down-right old-fashioned when compared to Grande.

Gaga leans into her status as a veteran on Chromatica, making only the mildest attempts to sound modern. Maybe she’s lost her appetite to be a weird provocateur, but she has learned how to sharpen and stylise her attack, and that focus makes Chromatica one of her most consistent and satisfying albums.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

No Age

Goons Be Gone Goons Be Gone’s punk vocals are clear and unaffected while anxious drumming and multi-tracked guitar riffs egg each other on to go faster and push the songs further into the red. When not zooming by at full force, No Age explore rainy, melancholic layers of processed guitars and ambient samples on the moody Smoothie, waves of fuzz and buried rhythms on Toes in the Water, and glitchy randomised samples on Working Stiff Takes a Break. The flow is less consistent than it’s been on recent albums, but the contrast this provides takes the edge off of the more outthere segments and also gives the more traditional rockers more impact.

With a number of years under their belts, No Age’s song writing and experimentation have both reached new heights of craft.

Sonic Boom

All Things Being Equal All Things Being Equal is a synthetic, psychedelic dream built on whooshing, squelching, whining and echoing old synths. The album was initially meant to be an instrumental journey into the sequenced mind of Mr Boom, but after years of collecting dust, the songs seemed ripe for lyrics and vocals. The words alternate between heartfelt messages of hope and scary images of confusion, sung in a robotic monotone that melts into the mix like another keyboard. The more lighthearted tracks are those that are easiest to embrace and overall, it’s a lovely return to the scene for Sonic Boom that finds him in full control of his vision and making music that stands proudly next to the best work he made in the 1990s.

July 2020 39

tv releases

FANCY SOME CHILL-TIME AT HOME? Check out the latest TV series to hit your screens.

Disney+ 13 Reasons Why (Season 4)

While the controversial series has taken many twists and turns through its run to date, the story finally wraps up with the fourth and final season. It began with the suicide of a high school girl that set off a series of events when it was discovered that she left 13 audio cassette tapes behind, one for each person she claimed played a part in her decision to end her own life. But the series deals with other serious issues beyond suicide as well, like depression, school violence, bullying and sexual assault.

Space Force

This sci-fi workplace comedy stars Steve Carell, who also executive produced and created the series, as a decorated pilot with aspirations to run the Air Force.

But he ends up leading a new sixth branch of the US armed forces. Carell, and seemingly the government itself, however, has no idea what the force is supposed to do. Presumably, hilarity ensues. The series also stars John Malkovich, Ben Schwartz and Lisa Kudrow.

Avengers: Infinity War

Iron Man, Thor, Hulk and the rest of the Avengers unite to battle their most powerful enemy yet – the evil Thanos. On a mission to collect all six Infinity Stones, Thanos plans to use the artefacts to inflict his twisted will on reality. The fate of the planet and existence itself has never been more uncertain as everything the Avengers have fought for has led up to this moment.

Guns Akimbo

Miles (Daniel Radcliffe) is stuck in a dead-end job, still in love with his ex-girlfriend Nova. Unbeknownst to him, a gang called Skizm is running a deadly competition within his city in which complete strangers fight to the death for the entertainment of an online audience of millions. Miles soon finds himself caught up in the game and forced to fight in a battle to the death. Initially, Miles’ lifetime of running from his problems pays off as he manages to elude his first opponent but when Nova is kidnapped, he must finally stop running and overcome his fears to fight for the girl he loves.

Knives Out

One of the most entertaining movies of 2019, Knives Out is a modern whodunnit from Rian Johnson that was filmed in Massachusetts.

Following the death of wealthy publishing magnate Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer), a renowned detective (Daniel Craig) is on the case, and everyone is a suspect. With a deep ensemble cast including Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis and Toni Collette, the film already has a sequel in the works.

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Artemis Fowl

The Kenneth Branagh-directed adaptation of Eoin Colfer’s popular YA book comes to Disney+ after losing its theatrical release date.

Newcomer Ferdia Shaw stars in the title role alongside Lara McDonnell, Josh Gad, Colin Farrell and Judi Dench. The film depicts the journey of a 12-year-old criminal mastermind as he tries to save his kidnapped father from a band of devious fairies. Artemis must infiltrate an ancient, underground fairy civilisation to track down the Aculos, the fairies’ most powerful and coveted magical device. www.bahrainthismonth.com

WHAT’S

green

what's green

BTM takes a look at the latest easy-touse, planet-friendly products.

NO STREAKS

With this refillable glass cleaner, there's no need to purchase an entirely new bottle each time you run out of product. The bottles from JAWS (Just Add Water System) are reusable, so all you need to do is fill it with tap water and place a refill pod inside. This cleaner is eco-friendly, streak-free and non-toxic. It is safe to use on surfaces like glass, mirrors, stainless steel, electronics, marble, countertops and tiles, and contains no alcohol or ammonia and is therefore safe on smart phones, tablets and TVs. When finished with your bottle of cleaner, just fill your reusable bottle with water, insert the Glass Cleaner Refill Pod and screw the trigger sprayer back on to make another dose. www.amazon.com

YOUR SHOPPING PARTNER

Make Baggu your smart shopping companion, not just for the grocery store; it goes everywhere and hauls (practically) anything. The reusable bag uses recycled fabric and is meant to be long-lasting and ecofriendly while looking fabulous! The strong tote can carry up to 22 kilograms of weight, yet is lightweight and folds into just a small square measuring just over 12cm. Made of pure ripstop nylon, Baggu can be machine-washed and used for years and years. The bags are available in various sizes and patterns, as well as in a pack of three. www.amazon.com

CLEAN LIPS

Burt's Bees offers a 100-per-cent natural Glossy Lipstick in six pleasing shades: Nude Mist, Nude Rain, Blush Ripple, Peony Dew, Pink Pool and Rose Falls. Its intense colour leaves lips silky smooth with a glossy finish and creamy texture, helping to condition and soothe lips with moisturising ingredients like moringa and red raspberry oil. The lipsticks provide full coverage and are formulated without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum and SLS, making them ideal for everyday wear. The product comes without unnecessary secondary packaging, and the tube is made with 52-per-cent recycled plastic. Since it doesn't contain any metals or magnets it’s lighter than other lipsticks, thereby scoring much less of a carbon footprint during transportation. www.amazon.com

TRAVEL SMART

NOT SO SILI

Boon Snug Straws can make any cup into a sippy cup for kids aged over one year (yes, adults too!). The spill-proof straw comes with a 100-per-cent silicone suction top to fit on any cup with a diameter of 6-7.5cm, and the straw hole fits any straw size. The straws are easy to wash by hand or in a dishwasher and are made without BPA, PVC and phthalates. The set includes three lids and straws in vivid colours. www.amazon.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

Eagle Creek is a global tribe of travellers committed to preserving and protecting the places we live, work and travel, and is keen to positively impact cultures, environments and the planet for future generations to discover. Eagle Creek’s duffel bags come in various sizes and colours. The exterior can be easily cleaned by hosing it off the water repellent coating is made from recycled windshield plastics, making it durable and sustainable. Bartacks are reinforced on stress points for a high strength-to-weight ratio.

Carry it by its removable backpack straps, padded top haul handles or side-grab handle for easy mobility, or securely attach to a car's roof rack with six heavy-duty lash points. www.amazon.com

July 2020 41

travel

Cannes

Museum of the Fragonard Parfumerie, Grasse St Tropez Hotel Le Negresco, Nice EZE

42 July 2020

www.bahrainthismonth.com

travel

Vive La France

S

Menton

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ince French National Day – or Bastille Day – is just around the corner on July 14, and Europe is finally re-opening its borders to foreign travellers, we’ve taken a look at one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations, the Riviera, which is home to both high-profile resorts and hidden gems.

Head to the charming city of Nice and take a stroll around the Old Town where you’ll find markets and history. Much loved by foodies, Nice is known for cooking lessons, tastings and food tours. Work off the calories with a stroll or bike ride along the waterfront Promenade des Anglais and stop in for dinner, or just an aperitif, at the world-famous Hotel Negresco. Travel in winter to catch the Nice Carnival, a 12-day party, ending with Mardi Gras.

Travel along the coast to the home of the Cannes Film Festival and, possibly, the world’s most famous red carpet. The Boulevard de la Croisette is a waterfront promenade boasting posh hotels, restaurants and shops or head to the Old Town for more bars and eateries. Make sure you take a stroll around the harbour, the yachts are breathtaking.

Or journey upwards and inwards around 12km from Nice to the gorgeous hilltop town of Ezé where you will find cobblestoned streets teeming with hot-pink bougainvillea and a picturesque tranquility that’s quite refreshing after the celeb hotspots of the coast.

Also, inland, a short train ride from Cannes, is Grasse. This super-pretty town in the Alpes-Maritime is known as the world’s ‘Perfume Capital’.

Here you can lose yourself in the old town, visit old-school perfumeries, many complete with their own museums, and even create your own scent. Check out Notre Dame De Puy, the town’s 12th century cathedral set in a historic area that looks like a movie set. Or simply while away the time at an atmospheric street café immersed in the allencompassing scent of the nearby flower fields.

Back down on the coast, no Riviera trip would be complete without a visit to Saint-Tropez, the original playground of the rich and famous of the ‘jet set’. There are numerous beaches along its stunning shoreline, some of them naturist or topless. The most famous is Bagatelle, where you may still spot members of the glitterati. Head to the port in the morning to watch artists set up for the day and check out the famous Hotel Byblos, which hosted Mick and Bianca Jagger’s wedding party.

If you’re venturing east to Italy, make a stop in Menton, the last town inside the French border. It’s a hilltop and port town with a maze of mediaeval streets, luxury accommodation and a sleepy character. it is Often referred to as the “prettiest town in France” with famous gardens, a splendid Edwardian Winter Palace, a quaint harbour and incredible views of the Mediterranean.

If you’re a serious foodie with deep pockets, call well ahead to dine at Mirazur which came out top on the list of The World’s Best 50 Restaurants in 2019 and holds three Michelin stars!

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out & about NURANA ISLANDS (9KM NORTH OF MANAMA) Reclaimed land connected to the mainland by a short causeway. Open beaches with no entry controls, access or general control, and a dirt road drive of approximately 2km. A fun place with a number of kite surfers, wind surfers, boats and nice sandy beach areas. No restrictions on food or refreshments – it’s all BYO and free to access with no real facilities and generally just an open sea area for the public. Weekdays are generally quiet and very pleasant. On weekends, the mornings are tranquil and calm but, heed this warning, the afternoons get hectic and the approach roads are a free-for-all with donkeys pulling carts in abundance, cars and 4x4s coming and going with no centre line, off-road quads and motorcycles buzzing and generally just a good interesting local area to see and witness. Nice area to barbecue provided you have all the necessary. The sunsets are magnificent! Safety precautions are up to the individual as is water safety. There are no lifeguards on duty.

Bahrain’s Beautiful Beaches

By Bill Grieve

Bahrain is an archipelago of islands and surrounded by warm clear waters.

As everyone overcomes the recent confinement and periods of lock-down, what better way to break away and social distance safely in comfort than to head off to one of the pristine beaches the Kingdom offers.

REEF ISLAND LAGOON BEACH CLUB (SEEF)

SOLYMAR BEACH (AMWAJ) Solymar means ‘Sun and Sea’ – and what a great place. It’s ‘Primus Inter Pares’ – Latin for ‘First among equals’. This is the Mediterranean in Bahrain, it’s an immaculate show-piece beach with high-end hotel facilities and if you close your eyes, you could be in Mykonos. It’s a great experience – the atmosphere is incredible; the water is clear and perfect, and the beach sand combed daily and pristine. Water sports, beach sports, beach furniture, umbrellas, music and luxury throughout.

No visit to Bahrain is complete without a day at Solymar beach. A standard day pass is BD15 for use of facilities and beach furniture.

Towels and face masks are available for a small surcharge and lifeguards are on duty. It’s situated just inside the scenic boat- and yacht-filled Amwaj Marina with ample secure parking. Book ahead on weekends and Ladies’ Day Wednesdays – they are pretty busy. Social distancing and COVID-19 safety rules apply. www.solymarbahrain.com 44 July 2020

This man-made lagoon and surrounding beach club is like a glorious peacock showing off its marvellous tail. Made up of a stunning lagoon fed from the surrounding ocean waters, the soft silica sand and elite and executive resort facilities welcome the many visitors that keep coming back to this up-market destination, which has enormous capacity and is easily accessible.

Pristine beaches surround the lagoon and space is not a problem, water sports are on offer and visitors can obtain refreshments onsite – it’s a wonderful relaxed environment offering a “good day out at the beach” for little more than the effort to get there and selecting a good spot to relax in. Recliners, beach furniture and umbrellas are provided, and visitors simply need bring hats and sunblock (towels too at this time). Trained lifeguards oversee the water sports and beach activities and are also positioned on the centre island of the lagoon.

It’s a great day out in a superb luxury environment that is exceptionally well laid out, well managed, well maintained and well organised with an abundance of safe parking too. Entry price for day visitors on application. Social distancing and COVID-19 safety rules apply. www.reef-island.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES

July 2020 | Issue 208

BEAUTY

FASHION

HOMES

PEOPLE

AGEING GRACEFULLY

REDESIGNING KIDS’ SPACES

PARENTING

OUIAM ON THE ART OF THE APOLOGY

THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST SUNNIES

HIND AL RUMAIHI THE WOMAN BEHIND THE CRAVELIST

WELL-BEING

BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

www.womanthismonth.com

BEAUTY | styling

MAKE-UP The use of make-up is purely per choice, whether you are 25 or 55. It can, whenever you feel like it, be used to enhance your looks to come across as the best version of yourself.

But when you’ve come this far with knowing yourself and speaking your mind, make sure to let the real ‘you’ shine through your make-up. Here’s how a dash of greasepaint can keep it looking elegant.

AMAZING AGEING GRACE Move over, ageism. The older woman has been savouring her moment in the global beauty spotlight for the last year. Not only is she looked up to for being ripe with wisdom, strength and life’s rich experiences, but also, the global beauty industry has made a beeline to create products particularly suited to mature skin and hair.

Stunners like Helen Mirren, Meryl Streep, Naomi Campbell and Jenifer Lopez have demanded attention for epitomising ageless beauty and turning heads with effortless sophistication. Let’s take a leaf out of their books to look and feel like a million bucks, no matter how many years we have walked the earth.

Eyeing your beauty – Sparse eyebrows will do nothing to frame your face, so filling them in (ever so lightly for a natural effect) will make all the difference.

You may be past the cut-crease and winged-liner look, but you can still befriend crinkly or pigmented eyelids with an eye-lid primer (or a dab of concealer) and a medium-toned eyeshadow that you can use to create a fake crease slightly above your natural crease to open up the eye. Smudge the upper lash line with a brown pencil or eyeshadow for soft, doey eyes. Skip this step for the lower lids; it tends to lend wise-with-age eyes a droopy look. A couple of coats of good quality mascara and you’re ready to receive admiring glances.

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July 2020

Firstly, throw out the rule book – Going through all the make-up motions of a 20- or 30-something YouTuber may not be to your advantage. Overlook the extras like contouring, highlighting and ‘baking’. Concentrate on what you absolutely have to hide or need to play up, and keep a light hand while you’re at it.

Laying the foundation – Primer gives make-up staying power and moisturiser will allow you to buff it all out without that dry, patchy finish.

Go sheer and steer clear of full coverage bases that end up in a cake-face appearance. A tinted SPF by day and a light-weight foundation by night will help you achieve an even tone while keeping skin looking like skin (as opposed to the last pancake in the stack).

A playful flush – Applying blush (muted hues please) slightly higher on the cheekbones with an upward sweep lifts the facial features.

Lips that seal the deal – The formula of your lipstick can make or break your look. Stay away from the extremes – drying mattes or high-shine gloss. Choose colours that complement your undertone and use lip liner just a tad beyond the border to keep colour from bleeding.

www.womanthismonth.com

BEAUTY | styling

SKIN CARE The key is to think ‘healthy and radiant’ rather than ‘younger and anti-ageing’. Years of pollution, sun exposure, bodily changes and lifestyle habits take their toll on the skin, making it rougher, drier, less elastic, prone to pigmentation and much thinner – all causing the dreaded W word – wrinkles!

Here’s how to help your skin to age with elan An effective emollient – Rich facial moisturisers work to soften and hydrate skin, saving it from resembling the Sahara. Oils like argan, almond, olive, shea and coconut are easily absorbed into the skin to keep the moisture locked in, and double up as effective eye cream.

Go natural – Using products free from phthalates, fragrance, sulfates, soap and parabens helps older skin.

Exfoliate – A good scrub keeps the face free of dead skin cells that make it look dull and allow it to better drink in the moisturiser and serums you feed it.

Avoid hot water – It dries skin, stripping it of necessary natural oils. Using lukewarm water foams the cleanser, removes surface dirt and balances sebum well.

Vitamin C – A serum infused with this potent antioxidant neutralises free radicals that lead to fine lines and wrinkles. It improves collagen production, helping to support skin structure while resulting in a bright, even skin tone. It’ll allow you to use less foundation and concealer, which is one of the fundamental beauty commandments for mature skin.

Sun protection – The sun’s UV rays cause skin proteins (elastin and collagen) to deteriorate, thereby causing thin, wrinkled skin. Slather on a sunscreen with at least SPF30 every morning.

NAILS Keep hands looking noticeworthy with regular at-home or professional manicures.

Be mindful to file nails in one direction and not overdo the use of any nail tools. And use that hand cream. Also, don’t listen to anyone who says that red polish is only for younger gals!

HAIR Whether you colour, or show off your grey, wear your mane in style. Gone are the days when milestone birthdays came with a mandatory (read outdated) short crop. Talk to a trusted stylist about long layers, soft bangs, a pixie or a long bob.

Nourish your tresses often with hair oils, masks and conditioner to keep the hydration and shine going. If hormones are wreaking havoc with your hair, consult a doctor for necessary supplements. www.womanthismonth.com

July 2020

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BEAUTY | new products NOURISH YOUR TRESSES

The Briogeo Be Gentle Be Kind Avocado and Kiwi Superfood Mask is designed to be a protein-free, nourishing hair mask formulated with highly emollient ingredients to boost moisture for softer, more manageable hair. For anyone who's taken the opportunity to hit pause on heat tools and colour treatments, Briogeo's latest hair mask is the perfect addition to your haircare routine.

Avocado, spinach and kiwi revive and lock in moisture for softer, smoother hair. The mask is suitable for those with straight, wavy, curly or coily hair types, as well as those with fine, medium or thick hair density too. The product is said to contain no harsh silicones, phthalates, parabens, sulphates, DEA or artificial dyes.

FRESH FOR THE SUMMER

Dolce&Gabbana Beauty offers a new romantic escape in the Mediterranean with Light Blue Summer Gel to soothe and perfume sun-kissed skin. Infused with a soothing after-sun complex drawn from Sicilian olive oil, the gel’s formula brings instant cooling comfort to sun-warmed skin. Its light, smooth texture penetrates instantly, without leaving any oily residue, moisturising the skin for up to six hours. In the Light Blue Summer Gel For Her, a luminous lemon and crisp Granny Smith apple brighten the heady scent of jasmine petals. A signature trail of lustrous amber woods and precious musks melts into skin.

With Light Blue Summer Gel, the radiant seduction of Dolce&Gabbana Beauty’s modern classic takes on a new texture that refreshes, soothes, hydrates and perfumes the skin in one single cool gesture.

LUSCIOUS LIPS

From Charlotte Tilbury’s award-winning skincare collection, comes a Magic Lip Oil - Crystal Elixir - a crystal-infused secret for hydrated, luscious lips. Nourishing and caring, this supercharged, science-powered formula loves your lips and is enriched with potent plant extracts and hyaluronic acid to hydrate, smooth and enhance while it’s on.The lip conditioner-mask hybrid has a magical blend of potent plant extracts to intensely hydrate, nourish and soften the lips including: hyaluronic acid, organic aloe vera, plant adaptogen extracts, ayurvedic swertian leaf and sqisandryl, which is a supercharged fruit extract, to add vitality to the skin. Besides this, oils like sunflower, camellia, shea and evening primrose as well as Bionymph Peptide and vitamins C and E add to the magic formula.

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July 2020

EXCLUSIVE EYES

Westman Atelier’s Eye Pods are two palettes of luminous eye shadow that provide soft definition and a sumptuous finish using only the cleanest ingredients. This velvety cream-powder hybrid formulation is designed for comfort, blendability, and rich colour payoff. Innovative magnetic pods snap together or apart for easy portability. Les Jours comprises stunning shades like Neige, Chocolat and Tabac – perfect for daytime use. And Les Nuits has Noir, Champagne and Vin Rouge to create stunning eyes for evenings out. The products contain no silicones, parabens, PEGs, phthalates, talc, synthetic fragrances or pigments, and are vegan and free of animal testing.

BE THE LIGHT

When it comes to glowing skin, nothing beats YSL Beauté’s iconic Touche Éclat range.

The brand now introduces the Touche Éclat Blur Primer Silver, a primer with silvery undertones. Joining the best-selling Touche Éclat Blur Primer Universal, comes a silver shade of shimmering, blurring and illuminating magic.

Infused with brightening sparkles, like its golden sister, it contains the light-diffusing magic of Touche Éclat in a transparent gel to smooth skin texture and boost luminosity. The silver shade works well for cool undertones, to be worn by itself, or under your foundation, for luminosity with an edge. www.womanthismonth.com

news

SISTER ACT SAFE TESTING

Beauty stores are seeing safe in-store trial solutions for the post-Covid era. Manufacturers have developed alternatives to the standard lipstick, foundation and perfume test solutions involving the successive use of retail-size products. Livcer has introduced the Livstick; available as a single-use blister pack made of recycled materials, consisting of a wooden stick, for lipstick trials. Arcade Beauty’s Kiss-A-Peel is a small cardboard card with a mouthshaped dose of lipstick which you kiss after folding it. Orlandi’s TouchUps is a biodegradable applicator consisting of a cellulose capsule which looks like a mini lipstick and is directly applied with the usual stick gesture.

Back in February, Kendall Jenner announced that she was finally working on a Kylie Cosmetics collaboration with her sister, Kylie. The packaging for 'Kendall by Kylie Cosmetics' features a split image of Kylie and Kendall's faces, looking uber glam (as always). Judging by their make-up for the campaign, it is speculated to heavily deliver on the '90s supermodel aesthetic.

Think soft, matte brown eyeshadows, smudged-out liner and pouty, brown-toned lipsticks. The selection is thought to include some lipsticks and compacts in a baby pink / orange / gold packaging. Later this year, Kylie is also planning to release a collection with her make-up artist, Ariel Tejada, otherwise known as @MakeupByAriel.

A NEW TAKEOVER A SUSTAINABLE STEP

Unilever has committed to have no carbon emissions from its own operations, and to halve the greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint of its products across the value chain, by 2030. In response to the scale and urgency of the climate crisis, the group is now additionally committing to net zero emissions from all products by 2039 - from the sourcing of the materials, up to the point of sale in the store.

To achieve this goal, Unilever said it will prioritise building partnerships with suppliers who have set and committed to their own science-based targets. To further fight deforestation and achieve a deforestation-free supply chain by 2023, the company will have visibility on exact sourcing locations, and increase traceability and transparency with digital technologies such as satellite monitoring, geolocation tracking and blockchain. www.womanthismonth.com

A UNIQUE COLLABO’

Morphe has teamed up with Coca-Cola for a limited-edition make-up collection that highlights the colours of the renowned soda brand. This unique collaboration brings pop culture to the world of beauty, featuring a selection of make-up essentials for lips, eyes and cheeks with packaging that is directly inspired by the famous soda brand’s bottles. Beauty junkies get a choice of three glittering face and body highlighters in clear gold, neutral champagne and iridescent bronze shades. The eyeshadow palette has 18 shades, suitable for daytime and evening looks, including matte and iridescent nudes, browns, red and gold tones and icy blues. A set of four liquid lipsticks (Cokecan red, glitter packed caramel, all-gold shimmer and nude pink) and a set of seven brushes complete the collection.

L’Oréal has signed an agreement to acquire US-based natural skincare brand Thayers Natural Remedies, which has a strong skincare heritage and offers a portfolio of high-quality products including toners and astringents. Founded in 1847 by Doctor Henry Thayer, the brand is best known for its iconic Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Facial Toner, a bestselling product popular among a diverse group of consumers. The brand has expanded its distribution from natural grocery stores to a multichannel strategy which includes mass and beauty retailers, drugstores and e-commerce. Thayers Natural Remedies recorded sales of USD44 million in 2019. The closing is subject to the standard regulatory approvals and other customary conditions.

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PEOPLE | interview

WHAT ARE YOU CRAVING? We caught up with Hind Al Rumaihi, the Bahraini foodie behind The Cravelist, which offers independent food reviews and great recipes, to find out what makes her tick and how she’s built an Instagram family of more than 17,500 followers. Make sure to try the delicious recipe she’s shared for WTM readers.

The Cravelist has been running for three years now. What gave you the idea to start it?

My mum and friends would always come to me and ask about where and what to eat and I’ve shared a list with them which included the best restaurants in Bahrain. Then, one day they said: “Why don’t you share this with everyone else?” I got Forky [the Toy Story character] as a Secret Santa gift from a friend which really gave me the push to start an Instagram page sharing all my restaurant experiences.

Where did the name come from?

I’ve had a list of restaurants, categorised by area and cuisine, for the past seven years on my phone notes, which really came in handy

amongst family and friends – who, luckily for me, trust my taste in food. According to our cravings on a given day, we would go through the list and unanimously agree on where and what to eat.

You now have more than 17,000 followers.

Has that growth been steady or did it burst onto the scene and then slowly gain traction over the years?

I would say it has been a steady growth over the years. I would have never imagined it to reach this far which is why I was initially hesitant about going public.

How old are you and what’s your food background? Do you have a day job too?

I’m 29. I’ve been dining out at highend restaurants since I was 13, with my grandfather. My love for food and dining was realised at a young age at Monsoon – when I met my first stalk of lemongrass! From then, it has always been the most exciting part of my life. Going out and trying different foods from

different places, high-end to street food. I’ve also worked in the F&B [food and beverage] industry for about three years and been in some of the largest, most prominent kitchens and bakeries in the Kingdom, which really helped shape my understanding of how food is made and delivered.

In my day job, I’m a civil servant/ government administrator.

Have you always loved cooking?

To be completely honest – no. I always believed that you either have it [the skill] or you don’t and I firmly believed that I didn't – after burning and ruining a simple fouringredient Betty Crocker cake in my early 20s.

But prior to the current situation [corona], I mustered up the courage to go back into the kitchen and try something simple, Dan Dan noodles – which I got off the internet, and they were incredible! That gave me the courage to go back and experiment with different and slightly more complex recipes. I can safely say that now, yes, I do enjoy cooking.

Where do you find your recipes? Do you use other people’s as well as your own?

Pinterest, allrecipes, blogs, Instagram. Yes, of course, I use other people’s as well as my own.

How do you choose which restaurants to review?

Whatever restaurant appeals to me and sparks an interest. I have an intuitive feel about whether a restaurant would meet my expectations or not and I am almost always right. Haha.

A recent recipe mentioned sourdough discard – for the uninitiated, please explain.

Ok, so with all that’s been going on, I decided to venture into new territory and make sourdough bread. To do that, you need to raise a sourdough ‘starter’ which involves three staple ingredients: flour, water and patience. You have to feed this starter on a daily basis for about a week, to activate the yeast and stimulate fermentation, and during the process, before feeding, you have to discard most of the ‘starter’ – which is flour and water converted to active yeast.

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PEOPLE | interview

I do not like to waste food, so I decided to use that discard [active yeast] and make pancakes. Super delicious!

The blog is beautiful, do you take your own pictures?

Thank you very much! Yes I do.

What are your favourite things to cook and to eat?

Favourite things to cook would definitely be pasta, salmon, rice and curry and pizza – they’re versatile and you can do so much!

I’m also more into savoury than sweet foods.

Favourites to eat: salmon, greens – give me all the veggies! – and sushi, in its raw fresh form.

Would you share a recipe for our readers?

With pleasure!

LEMON SOUR CREAM CAKE ·Add eggs to the mixer one at a This has been the best tried time. and reviewed recipe on the ·Detach the bowl from the mixer blog – it’s fool-proof, easy and add 100g of sour cream and and delicious! half the flour. Use a spatula to Ingredients: 250g butter 2 tsp lemon zest 2 cups castor sugar 6 eggs 2 cups plain flour ¼ cup self-raising flour 200g sour cream

Method: ·Add sugar, lemon zest, butter in a stand-mixer and beat until pale and fluffy.

mix. Continue adding the second half of the sour cream and the flour. ·Spread mixture into a greased cake pan and bake for one to one and a half hours, ideally 75 minutes, at 160-180 degrees (ideally 160°C), dust with icing sugar before serving!

Tips: Place cake in the middle shelf of the oven. Sift flour to avoid clumps.

What five things do you always have in your kitchen cupboard to make a simple and tasty meal?

1- Spices: namely Maldon sea salt and freshly ground pepper 2- Pasta 3- Tomato paste 4- Marmite 5- Condiments: Sriracha, mustard, Islanders (local Bahraini hot sauce).

Follow Hind @thecravelist.bh www.womanthismonth.com

July 2020

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news

Fashion Thriller New Collabo'

YOOX presents its latest collaboration M MISSONI X YOOX following the appointment of Margherita Maccapani Missoni as creative director of M Missoni.

The collection comprises 11 pieces, offering dresses, jumpsuits, skirts and trousers, T-shirts and sweatshirts which can all be styled to fit your personal look without the constraints of shape, gender or size. The styles feature eclectic hue combinations of fuchsia, blue and white and stay true to the mission of M Missoni – Reuse, Remix, Respect – both literally and conceptually. The sweatshirts and jersey tees are made of sustainable lurex while the black jumpsuit is FSC viscose and Missoni-stock raschel serves as an applique on one of the sweatshirt designs.

Possibly the first real influencer, a fashion designer who sold not just clothes but also a lifestyle, Betsey Johnson has put pen to paper in a new book – Betsey: A Memoir – which goes into the brand’s rise, financial trouble and eventual sale to Steve Madden in 2010.

And, much like the woman herself (she’s known for her offbeat style and has dressed everyone from Edie Sedgewick to Cyndi Lauper), the subject matter is anything but dry, taking the reader through four marriages, a stint living at New York’s infamous Chelsea Hotel, seemingly endless parties and her battles with breast cancer and open-heart surgery.

And though she is still working at 77, it’s a story not just of the designer of herself but of another era in fashion.

Virtual Recognition

Franco-Lebanese designer, Ingie Chalhoub, President and Creative Director of the luxury fashion house INGIE Paris, has received her first virtual award: The Monte Carlo Fashion Week Ethical Fashion Award.

The award acknowledges her continuous commitment to sustainability in fashion and philanthropy was presented during a live Instagram interview with the founder of the event, Federica Nardoni Spinetta.

Ingie said: “It is our duty to preserve our planet. Fashion today is about sustainability and values; we must look at different ways to encourage and engage in sustainable fashion. Consumers are increasingly aware and attracted to brands that have profound commitments to sustainability and strong social responsibility values.”

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July 2020

Saweetie Sitting Pretty Historical First

As high-end magazines are fighting for their lives, globally, in the wake of declining sales and the everincreasing popularity of digital alternatives, Samira Nasr has been appointed editor in chief for the American edition of Harper's Bazaar, becoming the first woman of colour to lead Hearst's premier fashion title in its 152-year history.

In a video announcing her appointment, she said: “As the proud daughter of a Lebanese father and Trinidadian mother, my world view is expansive and is anchored in the belief that representation matters.

My lens by nature is colourful and so it is important to me to begin a new chapter in Bazaar’s history by shining a light on all individuals who I believe are the inspiring voices of our time. I will work to give all voices a platform to tell stories that would never have been told."

PrettyLittleThing (PLT) has announced its second collaboration with rapper, singer and songwriter Saweetie, who has curated her own ‘At Home With’ 30-piece edit.

Known for her hit singles My Type and ICY GIRL, which has streamed more than 98 million views on YouTube, the rap star showcased her first collection with the brand last year at New York Fashion Week.

The latest edit embraces the ‘new normal’ and features as the first of PLT’s shot straight-from-home campaigns.

Expect suga-baby vibes and icy girl feels that will have you ‘lookin’ all things bougie’ while staying home and staying safe. Matching sets, including a bandana and gloves, have never looked cuter in the baby shaded throw-back trend everyone is wearing on Instagram. www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | accessories

Gentle Monster

Karl Lagerfeld

Alexander McQueen

Longchamp

Emporio Armani

ALL EYES ON YOU

We believe you can never have too many pairs of sunnies – they protect our eyes and, just as importantly, complete our looks. This summer there are so many great options to choose from.

From the timeless glamour of crystal at Swarovski and Valentino, to retro looks at Tom Ford and Marni, futuristic shapes at Karl Lagerfeld and oversized icons at Gucci and Gentle Monster; we love them all. We’ve come up with our top picks to help you make your choice. If you’re feeling flush, why not have one of each? After all, we did say you can never have too many, right?

Valentino

Chloé Carlina Guess

Swarovski Gucci Marnie Tom Ford

Longchamp

Marni www.womanthismonth.com

Gentle Monster - Dreamer July 2020

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FASHION |essentials

10 Things to Try This Month

1

2

Dying to dress up Arrange an online Murder Mystery Party in costume.

Get Sewing Time on your hands means time for a spot of fashion DIY.

Hunt it down Find the perfect white shirt.

4

5

Get Shorty You know you want to!

3

Hat Trick Summer’s here, hats are obligatory.

6

Tap Into Turquoise

7

Star Spangled Banner Celebrate July 4 with red, white and blue.

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July 2020

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Temporary Tattoo!

9

Glittering Prize Give your home a treat.

10

Ooh La La Go French for Bastille Day. www.womanthismonth.com

LIFESTYLE | well-being

In times when an all-pervading spectre is doing the rounds, looking to compromise the health and lives of those it encounters, a robust immune system is what could come to your rescue, writes Behnaz Sanjana.

HARNESS YOUR SUPERPOWER T he body is an intricate amalgamation of processes and functions, equipped with ‘immunity’ to ward off the bad bugs and stay healthy. Immunity is a complex system, rather than one single organ or entity, and is defined as the network of organs, cells, tissues and substances that protect the body from pathogens (viruses, bacteria or fungal microorganisms), and thereby, disease.

So, what comprises the body’s immune response?

The skin’s lipid layer is the first line of defence against pathogens, restricting their entry into the body.

The mucous membranes in the respiratory system secrete mucus to trap pathogens and dust. Their small hair-like structures usher them towards the throat where they are coughed or sneezed out, or swallowed and excreted.

The gut is said to make the majority of the body’s immune cells and is home to around 10,000 different species of good bacteria. A less-than-lush gut flora can lead to digestive issues and low immunity.

A type of white blood cell called Phagocytes, made in the bone marrow, engulf and destroy foreign pathogens before they do any harm.

If the body’s immune system is functioning optimally, it can defeat the pathogens it is exposed to. www.womanthismonth.com

The intelligent mechanism that is the human body produces memory cells that remember the microbe which has caused a disease.

They quickly make the correct antibody if the body is exposed to that particular infection again, preventing any symptoms of the disease occurring.

An insidious pandemic-causing virus may be beyond human control, but what is in our hands is keeping our immune systems prepped and primed to fend it off or at least sustain as little damage as possible. Here’s the plan of action: Take Immune Boosting Supplements: If you think you do not get the required nutrition from the food you eat, vitamins C and D, zinc and probiotics can improve overall immunity to disease. A daily multi-vitamin can provide the cells with essential micronutrients, which are critical for the immune system to be at the top of its game.

Eat Fresh: Making a habit of avoiding packaged, processed, sugar-laden foods most days of the week allows you to get creative in the kitchen and feed your body fibre- and nutrient-rich foods that can only have a positive result on your health.

Vitamin D takes care of more than 200 metabolic processes in the body. It is critical for immune function. Studies have shown that a small daily dose is more effective in the long term, versus a mega dose for a short period of time.

Exercise: Besides making you do the happy dance, feel-good chemicals after exercise can also help you sleep better. Something as simple as a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week can help flush out toxins and reduce inflammation. By increasing the circulation of immune cells and making them roam the body in higher numbers and at a higher rate, exercise helps them find and crush any pathogens.

Sleep: All the above are in vain if you do not thank your body with eight hours of restful sleep.

While asleep, the body can undertake primary cell repair functions and decrease inflammation.

Each stage of sleep plays an important part in restoring and boosting immunity.

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LIFESTYLE | home

COOL FOR THE SUMMER

Home Centre The youngsters have been cooped up at home for a long while now, with no definite time on the horizon to resume their academic and extra-curricular routines. The summer holidays are upon us, with little promise of travel or outdoor escapades. How about we cheer them up with a redesign of their spaces, making them multipurpose rooms where they draw inspiration to study, pursue their interests, play and rest better?

Smart Storage Storage organiser IKEA

Be a Glow-Getter Glitter lamp namshi.com

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Just Hanging Around Hammock chair amazon.com www.womanthismonth.com

LIFESTYLE | home Chuck It In Hamper namshi.com

Space Saver Bed shelfie amazon.com

It’s a Sign Hand-painted frames Colgrave Holmes Creations

Sweet Dreams Bed linen IKEA

Tropical Sequins Cushion Lifestyle

Be a Star Mini armchair Home Box Travel The World Wall map amazon.com

Reach High Step stool IKEA

Seize The Day Desk calendar Lifestyle

www.womanthismonth.com

Keep Your Cool Mini fridge ubuy.com

All-Purpose Awesomeness Multifunction bed Home Box July 2020

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LIFESTYLE | opinion

THE ART OF THE APOLOGY S

taying calm when our kids aren't is a major challenge, even for the most Zen parents and even under the best circumstances.

Take a worldwide pandemic, throw in some homeschooling along with a dramatic decrease in downtime to recharge our batteries and suddenly, keeping our cool with the kids, goes from a major challenge to seemingly impossible.

We are going to lose our tempers sometimes, there's simply no way around it.

The good news is that there are ways to minimise these moments—and there's something we can do to reconnect with the child.

Taking full responsibility for our actions, giving a sincere, heartfelt apology and reconnecting after a relational rupture is absolutely essential in order to maintain a close connection with our child and to ensure they feel seen, safe, soothed and secure.

TAKE A BREATHER

Before you do anything, you must first make sure your nervous system has settled down.

Disengage, take some deep breaths, say a calming mantra, eat an ice cream, whatever helps you de-escalate.

Once both you and your child's nervous systems are back to normal, move on to the next step.

Ouiam Charkani El Hassani on saying sorry and moving on.

OWN UP Making a sincere, heartfelt apology in which you take full responsibility for your actions is the most crucial step to making a repair.

The biggest mistake we make when apologising is using the words but or if: "I'm so sorry I yelled, BUT you weren't listening and I asked three times to stop hitting your brother."

"I'm sorry I got upset. IF you had just listened and stopped behaving like a maniac, I wouldn't have lost my temper."

Nope! A true apology does not include the words but or if. It does not concern itself with who is to blame, it does not expect forgiveness.

A true apology has five components: • Taking full responsibility for your role in the conflict.

• Giving a truthful explanation for your behaviour.

• Putting yourself in the other person's shoes.

• Communicating empathy for his experience.

• Expressing genuine remorse for your actions.

It sounds something like this: "I'm so sorry I got angry; you didn't deserve that. Sometimes it's hard for Mama to stay calm and I need to work on that. I can imagine that it's scary when Mama yells. I love you very much and I'm so sorry I hurt your feelings."

BE CURIOUS After you've apologised, ask your child how

they feel. What was their experience like?

Did they feel scared when you yelled? Sad? Angry? Get curious about what was going on that caused them to do whatever it was that triggered you.

HUG IT OUT Physical touch is the best way to reconnect with our child – a warm embrace can often cancel out the negative feelings that arose during the tense interaction. Why? Because tender physical contact releases a hormone called oxytocin which promotes trust and safety.

When we snuggle, cuddle, hold, hug, pat and kiss our kids, they're reassured of our love and are reminded that we're always there for them, no matter what.

LET IT GO Once you've gone through these steps and have re-established the connection with your child, it's time to let it go. There's no use in beating yourself up or ruminating about it.

Modelling self-compassion and selfforgiveness sends a powerful message to our kids. It shows them that we accept our humanness, that we're not perfect and that's okay. We're all works in progress.

The goal is to own our mistakes and then learn from them.

When we learn and practise the art of an apology we create a silver lining for our parenting fails. We take our worst parenting moments and we transform them into opportunities to model personal accountability, empathy and self-compassion – three of the most important things we can teach our children.

Now, more than ever, is a crucial time to put the art of the apology into practice with our kids. They need reassurance that everything is going to be okay just as much as we do.

Chanelmama

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