Bahrain This Month - June 2019

TRAVEL – TECHNOLOGY - ENTERTAINMENT

Since 1997

June 2019 ~ Vol. 23 ~ Issue 6 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

HAPPENINGS

MOTORING

BEHIND THE WHEEL OF THE NEWEST ITALIAN STALLION

Russell Peters on tour Dilmun Legends Festival Bahrain Fringe Festival Battle of the Bands

DISCOVER BAHRAIN

Head to Hawar

SIR TOM BECKETT

DINING

On the importance of the Manama Dialogue and threats both military and political

FOOD PHILOSOPHY WITH CHEF FABIAN SEBASTIAN FRANCIS

www.bahrainthismonth.com Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

Digital Edition

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Issue 262

Contents June 2019 HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around the island in June 2019: 15

Music Festival

Hear your favourite artists at the Bahrain Island Music Festival at Al Dar Islands.

15

16

Festive Fun

A unique festival for the whole family at the Dilmun Club.

18

Deported to Bahrain!

Global stand-up comedian and actor, Russell Peters heads back to the Kingdom.

20

Levitate Your Senses

Give your body a new workout with a workshop on aerial yoga.

22

All White

It’s a White Beach Party at the Four Seasons Hotel

16

every Friday.

18

Anniversary Performance

24

An outstanding performance by Yinchuan Arts Theatre Limited.

26

Charity Bargains

Bag a bargain while supporting a worthy cause at BSPCA Summer Designer Days.

27

Summer Camp Round-Ups

BTM lists the options for kids’ summer camps this year.

20

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

24

INTERVIEWS 28-29

A Secure Homecoming

Influential figure, Lt Gen (Retd) Sir Tom Beckett tells Liz O’Reilly about his journey thus far.

30

28

31 Bystander Our photographers have been at Iftars and Ghabgas galore this month as well as plenty of other events, including Gulf Construction Expo, a birthday celebration for the Netherlands monarch, quiz nights, charity events, parties and more. Were you caught in their lenses.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Changing Artistic Direction

Noted artist Huda Al Saie talks about what’s behind her decision to take up a new artistic medium.

Death — It’s A Laughing Matter!

31

BTM quizzed Scottish comedian Jojo Sutherland ahead of her comedy night this month

COMMERCE 32

Opinion: Pria Masson Tanwar 33-34 Business Bites

June 2019 5

D I S C O V E R H O M E F U R N I S H I N G I N S P I R AT I O N S I N M A N A M A , P H O E N I C I A D E C O R PA L A C E PA L M S B L D G T E L : 0 0 9 7 3 - 1 7 5 6 4 4 4 4 / N AT U Z Z I . C O M

Issue 262

Contents June 2019 Motoring 37

My Life In Cars

Dick Potter shares his passion for motors.

Gut-whoopingly Insane Acceleration with

38-39

70

Michelangelo-worthy Design Dick Potter put the seriously impressive Ferrari 812 Superfast through its paces in Dubai.

40-41

Motoring Bites

BTM brings you the latest news from the motoring world.

Dining Haus Rules

45

Award winning chef, Fabian Sebastian Francis, talks to BTM about his journey to Haus.

46-51

Table Hopping

52-53

40

45

Café Culture

A round-up of the best cafés in Bahrain.

Technology 57 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 58 Computer 59 60

Games: The hot games of the month Apps: Essential apps to try

Websites: The coolest sites on the web

Entertainment 62 63

64 New

68

72

on TV: Shows to download

Lifestyle 67

What’s New: Must-have products

68-69 70-71 72

Travel: An Indonesian Adventure

Discover Bahrain: Paradise Pleasant

Out and About: Kids’ spots in Bahrain 78

57

Music: Top new tunes

Hollywood faves: Latest film releases

AD Index and QR codes

58 Connect with Bahrain This Month:

62 www.bahrainthismonth.com

67

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

June 2019 7

THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton

Bahrain This Month June 2019

Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Dick Potter, Zilia Monteiro Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel, Hatem Monem Photography Editor Muna Yousef Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) Media Sales RANDA GHAZI HOWAIS randa@redhousemarketing.com DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Content Editor Liz O’Reilly Video Producer Dario Godic Art & Animation Director Hatem Monem

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: info@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2019 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

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

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

•

COVER Cover Picture:

Ferrari 812 Superfast TRAVEL – TECHNOLOGY - ENTERTAINMENT

Since 1997

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

June 2019 ~ Vol. 23 ~ Issue 6 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

HAPPENINGS

MOTORING

BEHIND THE WHEEL OF THE NEWEST ITALIAN STALLION

Russell Peters on tour Dilmun Legends Festival Bahrain Fringe Festival Battle of the Bands

DISCOVER BAHRAIN

Head to Hawar

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

SIR TOM BECKETT

DINING

On the importance of the Manama Dialogue and threats both military and political

FOOD PHILOSOPHY WITH CHEF FABIAN SEBASTIAN FRANCIS

www.bahrainthismonth.com Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Let me first take this opportunity to wish you all Eid Mubarak, a time when we look back on a month of reflection and forward to a few days’ break and celebration.

The end of Ramadan sees the launch of the summer season which means lots of parties, visiting international DJs and some great new events in the form of the Bahrain Fringe Festival at the British Club and the Legends Festival at the Dilmun Club. There’s a visit from comedian Jojo Sutherland, who’s also one of our interviewees, and a big-name appearance by funny man Russell Peters – if he doesn’t get Deported! I think it’s safe to say the island is certainly coming back to life and you’ll find details of these and loads of other events in our Happenings section as well as online at www.bahrainthismonth.com which is updated regularly throughout the month.

Our interview section this month also features Lt Gen (Retd) Sir Tom Beckett, who spoke to Liz about his role at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, which organises the Manama Dialogue. It was a nice surprise to find that he was actually born in Bahrain, so taking on the job was something of a homecoming. Liz also spoke to Huda Al Saie, an artist renowned for her porcelain painting who is now turning her skills to a different medium.

In the dining section, we introduce chef Fabian Sebastian Francis, the culinary expert behind one of my favourite eateries (and, no, there was no nepotism involved whatsoever). And, as well as our regular round-up of news and offers from the island’s hospitality sector in Table Hopping, you’ll also find plenty of ideas for where to enjoy your Eid feast.

In Motoring, Dick is back behind the wheel of one of his favourite marques, having trotted off to Dubai to put the Ferrari 812 Superfast through its rather speedy paces – still not jealous!

And you’ll find the Lifestyle section busier than ever this month.

Check out Discover Bahrain for everything you ever wanted to know about Hawar. The sheer variety and quality of wildlife there is truly amazing and definitely worth a visit. Or, if you’re thinking of taking a break somewhat further afield, we have the lowdown on Indonesia.

All this plus our regular news round-ups makes BTM, as ever, your guide to a great way of life.

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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Digital Edition

Nightlife

June 2019 9

bystander

Gulf Construction Expo 2019

Organised by Hilal Exhibitions and Conferences, the Gulf Construction Expo was held under the patronage of Prime Minister, HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre. It delivered the Northern Gulf’s specialist event to access the region’s most influential architectural, engineering and design communities of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait

To view more images, scan the QR code

Toni & Guy Opening Joz Group launched its second Toni&Guy branch in Bahrain with a grand opening

ceremony held at its premises in City Centre Bahrain. The event was inaugurated by British Ambassador, HE Simon Martin, and his wife Sophie together with Joz Group’s chairman, Mohammed Joz, and managing director, Nawal Joz

Charity Iftar 10 June 2019

In collaboration with the Royal Charity Organisation, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay invited 100 Bahrain orphans to enjoy Iftar at its tent

To view more images, scan the QR code

To view more images, scan the QR code

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

Mubarak

J OZ SA LO N & SP A For Appointment, Call : Awali

17756449

JozSalonsSpas |

Juffair

17369133

|

JozSalons Joz Moda

17533768

bystander

King of Netherlands Birthday Reception

The Dutch Ambassador, HE Frans Potuyt, and the Honourary Consul, Jaap Willem Vaandrager, held a reception at Downtown Rotana to celebrate the birthday of the King of the Netherlands, HM Willem-Alexander

French Embassy, in its role as local president of the European Union, coordinated European Day 2019 The a concert by Dario Pinelli Trio at the Cultural Hall to celebrate European Day 2019

12 June 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

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bystander

the patronage of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Ramadan Ghabga Under Coexistence held its annual Ramadan Ghabga at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

Malaysian Embassy Gergaoun

On the occasion of Gergaoun, Malaysian Ambassador, HE Agus Salim bin Yusof, and his wife distributed gifts to the children in the wards of Salmaniya Hospital Complex.

Al Hawaj Ghabga Al Hawaj celebrated Ramadan with a Ghabga

14 June 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

happenings

JUNE 2019-HAPPENINGS

WORLD QUIZ FINALE

WORLD QUIZ CHAMPIONSHIP

JUNE 1

RIC’S LATEST ADDITION

KCA Majlis

The Kerala Catholic Association, Q Factory and S.T.E.P Academy host the World Quiz Championship, introduced for the first time in Bahrain by the International Quizzing Association. Contestants representing their official countries, from all across the world, will take on their rivals on June 1. The event takes place from 1.30pm to 6pm.

Call 39 300-835 / 36 800-676.

BISTRO DISCO JUNE 5

GRAND OPENING

RIC’S ALE GARDEN OPENING

Ric’s Kountry Kitchen

A much-anticipated development is almost here! Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Bahrain unveils its hops garden opening to the public this Eid. Get ready for a whole host of new ales to try and don’t miss out on some new promotions!

Call 17 725-550.

Akaya Bistro

This Eid awaits the unveiling of the latest venue in town, Akaya Bistro! Don’t miss the grand opening party featuring soulful beats from worldwide DJ Ahmet Kilic, hosted by Vibes and Bahrain Nights. DJ Andy Collins will warm up with his deep house sessions. Doors open 8pm to 2am.

Entry is by guestlist and valid to mixed groups and couples only until 10.30pm, after which it is BD10 at the door for everyone.

Call 39 007-750 / 32 223-323 / 38 889-495.

EID CELEBRATION JUNE 5

MUSIC FESTIVAL JUNE 5-7

JUNE 4

BAHRAIN ISLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL (BIMF)

Aldar Islands

Opening this Eid with a bang, is the unique Bahrain Island Music Festival, hosted by Al Dar Islands and OMs Events.

Hear all your favourite artists from various genres perform over three days of musical bliss with Desi Dhamaka (from noon to 8pm), Vortex 2.0 (from 8pm onwards) and Shanti Town (from noon to 8pm), taking place over the Eid Al Fitr holidays. Events are individually priced with tickets available online.

Visit wanasatime.com

EID FESTIVAL PARTY

Adhari Park

Wear your jalabiyas and thobes and join in this Eid festival hosted by Athena Private School for Special Education. The celebration runs from 3pm onwards.

Call 34 490-271.

BALAERIC NIGHTS JUNE 5

DESTINATION: IBIZA

Alto

Join a trip around the world with Destination Nights, every Wednesday from 8pm! Enjoy some Balaeric beats and complimentary cocktails as you are transported to the original party island of Ibiza from 8pm to 1am.

Call 17 210-550.

PLAY IT RIGHT JUNE 6

SEASON OPENING PARTY

Play Lounge

Bring on the new season at Play Lounge’s opening party featuring the famous international DJ Meduza! She’s worked for eight years as a model in Russia and internationally and in parallel she’s been DJing all that time in locations as diverse as St Petersburg and Shanghai. Meduza has developed an expressive and stylish mix with sets punctuated by elegance and at the same time boundless passion and emotion. Be bold, dance free and enjoy the journey.

Call 17 100-345. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

June 2019 15

happenings

CULTURAL MUSIC EVENING JUNE 6

When? Thursdays Event? Salsa & Ladies Night Venue? Bizarre Lounge

Enjoy latin vibes and a salsa night hosted by dance instructor Jaffar, from 8pm to 2am.

Call 17 171-441.

When? Throughout June Event? Devji – BKS Balakalotsavam 2019 Venue? Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam

Arts, cultural and literary festival for kids in the kingdom.

FAISAL AL ANSARI CONCERT

In celebration of Eid Al-Fitr, the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities presents a concert by Bahraini artist Faisal AlAnsari, accompanied by Mohammed bin Faris band in an exceptional musical evening.

Faisal AlAnsari has always been passionate about singing ever since he was a child. He got his Bachelor of Arts in Music from Kuwait and later joined The Voice Season 4 and reached the finals, instantly earning him recognition on a regional level due to his memorable voice and personality. Faisal is famous for

Cultural Hall

integrating diverse types of music and fusions, including singing songs in languages he does not speak.

Mohammed bin Faris band consists of some of the Kingdom’s finest folk artists and musicians who are known to perform various types of traditional musical genres and songs, such as Sout, Basteh and Khamari.

The performance, which is part of the authority’s Eid celebrations, will take place at the Cultural Hall on the third day of Eid Al-Fitr.

The concert starts at 8pm, doors open 7.30pm. Entry is free of charge.

Visit culture.gov.bh

Call 39 711-090 / 36 940-694 / 39 252-456.

When? June 1 Event? World Quiz Championship Venue? KCA Majlis Call 39 300-835 / 36 800-676.

PINOY COMEDY NIGHT JUNE 6

When? June 1 Event? Hoteliers Night Venue? Swiss International Palace Hotel Call 17 296-660.

When? June 5 Event? Pink Wednesday Venue? Play Lounge

Get ready for your favourite ladies’ night with DJ Ronn.

Call 17 100-345.

When? June 5 Event? Akaya Grand Opening ft. DJ Ahmet Kilic Venue? Akaya Bistro Call 39 007-750 / 32 223-323 / 38 889-495.

When? June 5 Event? Eid Festival Party Venue? Adhari Park

Wear your jalabiyas and thobes and join in this Eid festival hosted

by Athena Private School for Special Education.

Call 34 490-271.

16 June 2019

Beats Lounge

Beats Lounge and Skybirds in association with K&A Events present an Eid special with Filipino actor, comedian and television host, Super Tekla who is live in Bahrain with Jepoy. Experience the best music, laughter and fun at this newest entertainment heartbeat at the ground floor of the Arch hotel, Juffair. Doors open at 7pm.

Tickets from BD5.

Call 33 043-014.

Swiss International Palace Hotel hosts a special weekly event for all hoteliers.

When? June 4 Event? Ric’s Ale Garden Opening Venue? Ric’s Country Kitchen Call 17 725-550.

SUPER TEKLA LIVE

FESTIVE FUN JUNE 7

DILMUN LEGENDS FESTIVAL

Dilmun Club Bahrain

Celebrate the Eid Weekend with a unique festival for the whole family at the Dilmun Club! The activity-filled day will feature live music from 3pm to 10pm. Legendary resident artists Stefan, Mika, Faith, Paul Gray, Annie and headliners, Jack Rabbit Slims (pictured), are among the entertainment line-up.

It will be seven hours of pure musical entertainment on a professional stage and the sound system is being purposebuilt for the event so you can see, hear and feel every song.

Beverages will be served cold and fresh from an outdoor bar close to the stage so you never have to miss a tune whilst topping up. This will be complemented by a shawarma stand and barbecue along with a coffee stand selling other hot and cold refreshing beverages and various food items.

Kids will also have their share of entertainment.

The event is free for all Dilmun Club members and only BD5 for reciprocal members and guests (under 12s free).

Call 17 690-926. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

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happenings When? June 5 Event? Bahrain Island Music Festival (BIMF) Venue? Aldar Islands Visit wanasatime.com When? June 5 Event? Destination: Ibiza Venue? Alto Call 17 210-550.

When? June 5 Event? The Big Trivia Quiz Venue? Wembley Lounge

Join this big trivia quiz every Wednesday featuring entertainment and cash prizes.

Call 17 811-811 / 33 640-009 / 33 536-448.

When? June 6 Event? Season Opening Party Venue? Play Lounge Call 17 100-345.

When? June 6 Event? Faisal Al Ansari Concert Venue? Cultural Hall Visit culture.gov.bh When? June 6 Event? Vortex 2.0 Venue? Aldar Islands Call 17 704-600 or 33 449-218.

When? June 6 Event? Super Tekla Live Venue? Beats Lounge & Skybirds Call 33 043-014.

When? June 7 Event? The Ocho Festival Venue? Calexico Call 17 666-644.

When? June 7 Event? Shanti Town 2.0 Venue? Aldar Islands Call 17 704-600 / 33 449-218.

When? June 7 Event? Dilmun Legends Festival Venue? Dilmun Club Bahrain Call 17 690-926.

When? June 7 Event? Aretha Franklin Tribute Brunch Venue? Dilmun Club Bahrain Call 17 690-926.

When? June 8 Event? Russel Peters Tour Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Call 80 001-911 or visit russellpetersbahrain.com 18 June 2019

TRIBUTE BRUNCH JUNE 7

ARETHA FRANKLIN TRIBUTE BRUNCH

The Natural Woman Show is a musical tribute to the Queen of Soul, Miss Aretha Franklin, performed by one of Europe’s most soulful voices, Pritee.

Pritee Almeida, a 38-year-old British born singer from Mauritian parentage, began her singing career in school and quickly graduated to the Miss Saigon training school, a stage school funded by Cameron McKintosh to help more ethnic minority musical theatre actors tread the West End boards.

Her talent really came to the fore after a memorable appearance on Britain’s Got Talent on 2011 and following that she has sung around the world as a lead vocalist fronting her own band The Funkstars and many others, playing music festivals, corporate events, weddings and

Dilmun Club Bahrain

much more.

The event runs from 11.30am to 3.30pm and tickets are BD24 inclusive, BD14 for food only and BD6 for children.

Kids under 12 go free.

Call 17 690-926.

DEPORTED TO BAHRAIN! RUSSEL PETERS TOUR

JUNE 8

Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

Hold on to your seats as renowned global stand-up comedian and actor, Russell Peters heads back to the Kingdom this month!

The comedian’s brand-new ‘Deported’ world tour, which kick-started in Australia and New Zealand, features all-new material. The tour has travelled to more than 40 cities across 20 countries and has been seen by over 100,000 fans worldwide since February.

Peters is one of the most sought-after comedians in the industry; besides being the first comedian to get a Netflix

stand-up special, the comedy legend has received several awards including the Emmy, Gemini and Peabody. Peters has also appeared in multiple movies such as The Clapper with Ed Helms, Amanda Seyfried and Tracy Morgan as well as Adventures in Public School with Judy Greer.

Tickets for the much-anticipated performance can be purchased online or from the ticket stand located near Gate 9 at Seef Mall. They start at BD20 and range up to BD 85.

Call 80 001-911 or visit russellpetersbahrain.com Bahraini artist, Huda Al Saie, will be showcasing her collection of acrylic works in an exhibition titled Mirage of Colours. The pioneer of porcelain art in Bahrain explores her newfound interest in abstract gestural painting. The opening night kicks off at 7pm.

Call 17 231-231.

COLOURS OF LIFE JUNE 8-15

MY CAFÉ Mirage of RESTAURANT Colours

MINIATURE WORKSHOP JUNE 10

JAPANESE SUSHI MINIATURE WORKSHOP

Janabiyah

Learn how to make your own miniatures using different kinds of materials and techniques through this workshop conducted by miniature artist Dina Okba. The workshop fee of BD20 is inclusive of materials such as clay, plastics, paper, metal and snacks. You will also get to take home your very own miniature work.

Call 39 025-124. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

bystander

Opening of New Nespresso Booth

Nespresso opened an additional Nespresso booth in Seef Mall Muharraq. The new Nespresso booth offers its guests and all coffee aficionados the opportunity to be immersed into a complete journey from the wide range of 28 different coffees to the multiple coffee machine solutions and stylish accessories collections

To view more images, scan the QR code

May Birthdays

A fun get-together was held for all May Birthdays at Fort Garden

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

June 2019 19

happenings When? June 8-15 Event? My Café Restaurant Venue? Mirage of Colours Call 38 327-191.

When? June 10 Event? Bluesaders Venue? Hazel Rooftop Lounge

LEVITATE YOUR SENSES JUNE 10-29

LEVITATION - AN INTRODUCTORY COURSE

Namaste Bahrain

The Bluesaders take the stage with some blues repertoire with a special guest on harmonica.

ARTS FEST

Call 17 231-231.

When? June 10 Event? Levitation - An Introductory Course Venue? Namaste Bahrain Call 17 591-565.

When? June 10 Event? Bahrain Writer’s Circle Monthly meeting Venue? Era Tower Call 39 574-795.

When? June 10 Event? Japanese Sushi Miniature Workshop Venue? Janabiyah Call 39 025-124.

When? June 11 Event? Salsa Night Venue? Bar de La Plage, The Ritz-Carlton

Fuel your passion for dancing with this weekly salsa night at Bar de La Plage.

Call 17 586-499.

When? June 11-14 Event? The Bahrain Fringe Festival Venue? The British Club Visit bahrainfringefestival.com When? June 12 Event? Beach Karaoke Party Venue? Bahrain Yacht Club Call 17 700-677.

When? June 12 Event? Destination: Ibiza!

Venue? Alto

Party every Wednesday at this venue serving up complimentary cocktails for ladies from 8pm to 1am.

Call 17 210-550.

When? June 12 Event? The Second Circle Poetry Meeting Venue? ArtDivano Gallery

Calling all poets for a monthly meet, which starts at 7.30pm.

Call 39 574-795.

When? June 14 Event? Sunset Pool Party Venue? Art Rotana Call 16 000-111.

20 June 2019

JUNE 11-14 Give your body a new workout with this aerial yoga workshop!

Introduce yourself to the basics, helping you to build confidence so you can enjoy a safe and easy to follow levitation class.

Rediscover poses as you suspend your body from a ceiling swing. Awaken and nurture your inner child. The workshops start at 7pm.

Call 17 591-565.

CELEBRATING INDEPENDENCE JUNE 12

BEACH KARAOKE PARTY

Bahrain Yacht Club

JUNE 14

THE BRITISH CLUB

A four-day-long festival of comedy, improv, music and theatre featuring some of the island’s talented artists will take place this month. Hosted by The Manama Theatre Club (MTC), the event features a variety show of comedy sketches

by MTC, music and comedy by Keith Donnelly and a Friday festival. Some of the artists include Sandi Thom, Mo Zowayed, The Relocators and more! Tickets are priced accordingly for various days and are available at The British Club, The Rugby Club and The Dilmun Club.

Visit bahrainfringefestival.com

PARTY AT SUNSET JUNE 14

SUNSET POOL PARTY

ART Rotana

WU’s beach-pool party hybrid returns! Get ready for a day by the sea and in the pool with WU DJs: Katrin Love, Mysterioo Arif and Boudi!

A chilled out afternoon by the pool awaits you before things hot up after sunset!

You can lounge as early as 4pm and stay till midnight at BD10 per person, inclusive of a day pass to enjoy the facilities from 3pm to 10pm.

Call 16 000-111.

Celebrate Philippines Independence Day at the Bahrain Yacht Club’s beach karaoke party. Entry to the event is from 8am to 10pm and the programme runs from 4pm to 11pm. Entrance is 500 fils for Filipino nationals and BD2 for other nationalities for ages over 12 years. Food and drinks from outside the venue are not permitted.

Call 17 700-677.

ART WITH A HEART

THE BAHRAIN FRINGE FESTIVAL

ART EXHIBITION

ART Rotana

Good food, good music and a night of appreciating art make this a memorable event! Impasto Arts hosts ‘Art with a Heart’ raising funds for the BSPCA and celebrating art in Bahrain, featuring prints, jewellery and more!

Meet the artists at a reception held at 8pm followed by an exhibition with works for sale by artists Gaye Bentham, Abbas Al Mosawi (pictured), Summer Ameen, Mohammed Taha, Mahdi Al Jallawi and Impasto Arts.

Enjoy a buffet dinner with soft drinks or a selection of beverages for BD20 or BD30, respectively. All proceeds go towards the running of the BSPCA’s AWC shelter funding the free CNR scheme for cats and dogs.

Call 66 608-901 / 35 343-916. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

bystander

Saying Thank You Rotary Club of Manama held a sponsor appreciation night at Lanterns Restaurant Adliya

BSPCA Quiz Night BSPCA Quiz Night was held at the Dilmun Club

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

June 2019 21

happenings When? June 14 Event? White Beach Party Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Call 16 000-111.

When? June 14 Event? Boutique Sale Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club Call 33 109-507.

When? June 14 Event? Art With a Heart Venue? ART Rotana Call 66 608-901 / 35 343-916.

When? June 17 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Creative Workshop Venue? Café Chantilly

ALL WHITE JUNE 14

WHITE BEACH PARTY

Four Seasons Hotel

Head over to this white-sand beach, kick off your shoes and celebrate being alive in your most stylish white attire every Friday. It’s BD10 for ladies, BD15 for gents and BD250 per table, including a bottle of premium beverage and mixers. Spa members enter for free. The party runs from 3pm to midnight.

Call 36 906-900.

DESIGNER SALE JUNE 14

BOUTIQUE SALE

JUNE 14 Bahrain Rugby Football Club

A monthly meet up for writers, starting at 7.30pm.

Call 39 574-795.

When? June 19 Event? Vaudeville Venue? Calexico Bahrain Call 17 666-644.

When? June 20 Event? Yinchuan Arts Theatre Venue? Cultural Hall Visit culture.gov.bh When? June 20-21 Event? Fête de la Musique Venue? Sofitel Call 17 636-363.

When? June 21 Event? Make Music Bahrain Venue? Alliance Francaise Email scac.manama-amba@ diplomatic.gouv.fr When? June 27 Event? Bahrain Summer Festival Venue? Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort Visit bahrainsummerfestival.bh

Don’t miss out on a good bargain at The Dogfather’s boutique sale where quality designer label donations are sold at incredibly low prices!

Admission to the sale is at 500 fils per person. The event, which runs from 11am to 2pm, has something for the whole family. Let’s be generous in support of our furry four-legged friends!

Call 33 109-507.

TEA FOR TWO

JUNE 14

FUNDRAISING TEA PARTY

Rivers of Joy

When? June 28 Event? Summer Madness pool & beach party Venue? Dragon Hotel Amwaj Call 38 888-019.

When? June 30-August 29 Event? Summer Camp Venue? Bahrain Ballet Centre Call 17 693-232 / 33 719-180.

When? June 30 – 29 August Event? Summer Camp Venue? Life-Fit Call 17 692-424 / 33 001-261.

22 June 2019

GERMAN VIBES

Head down to this venue outside of Saar for a fun event featuring motivational speakers, raffles, live music, stalls, Best Dressed Table competition and more. It’s a great chance to meet new friends and is raising funds for families in need. Entry is BD10 per person.

Call 39 638-002 or 35 035-939.

NICHOLAS STARFIELD LIVE

Coda Jazz Lounge

Vibes is back this time at a new venue! Join them for a night of incredible music, a stunning crowd and a beautiful setting – Coda Jazz Lounge. As Vibes always strives to bring the best to its crowd, be ready for an artistic act which will take nightlife to a whole different level!

Vibes will present Nicolas Starfield all the way from Germany to Bahrain to deliver an excellent set, while you enjoy the cool vibes with gorgeous people, chilled drinks and amazing music. The night starts at 8pm with DJ Denzel on the decks followed by Damian D’costa and Nicolas Starfield taking over with their energetic tunes throughout the rest of the night. Be ready as they have some unreleased weapons to reveal.

Doors are open from 8pm-2am, so head down early to guarantee your entry. Dresscode is glamorous and entry is free by guestlist until 11pm, BD10 after.

Call 66 678-666 or 32 223-323.

PICK YOUR ACT! JUNE 19

VAUDEVILLE

Calexico Bahrain

Step Right Up! Vaudeville’s back with a fresh batch of Vaudevillians to amaze and delight you! Inspired by the late 1700s’ circus-infused theatrical acts known as Vaudeville to the modern day 15-minute format shows in underground gritty London, it’s weird, wonderful and great fun.

Curated and produced by Khalil Rasool, Calexico presents a night of expanded creativity and creative magic. Designed to educate, edify, amaze and uplift; a testing ground for creative material, a platform to explore yourself and all your wonderful hidden talents.

Content runs the gamut of, and not limited to, literature, music, film, performance arts, subversive cabaret, magic shows, stand-up comedy, entertainment, live art and more.

The show starts at 8pm and runs till late and has a classy but comfortable dress code. Entrance is BD5.

Call 17 666-644. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

happenings When? June 30 Event? Wahooo Summer camp Venue? Wahoooo Waterpark Call 17 173-000 / 17 692-424.

When? June 30 Event? Summer Camp Venue? Wild About Art Co. Call 33 365-906.

When? July 1 Event? Adventure Summer Camp Venue? Adventure Hub Call 33 001-261.

When? July 5 Event? Bryan Adams Tribute Band Brunch Party Venue? Sherlock Holmes Bar & Restaurant Call 66 901-323.

ANNIVERSARY PERFORMANCE JUNE 20

YINCHUAN ARTS THEATRE

Cultural Hall

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Chinese Embassy, in collaboration with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, presents an outstanding performance by Yinchuan Arts Theatre Limited, formerly known as Yinchuan Performing Arts Troupe, founded in 1958. The event is for ages six and above and admission is free.

Visit culture.gov.bh

BATTLE OF THE BANDS JUNE 20-21

FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE

MUSIC FEST

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq

Gather your friends and head over to Tapas to compete in or witness a grand musical competition between the best bands in the Kingdom in celebration of World Music Day! The winning band will be presented with a luxurious two-night stay with breakfast at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. And runners up win a Grand Friday brunch voucher. The night will also feature electrifying live performances by the talented in-house Cuban band.

The cost is BD20 per person entrance fee, redeemable on consumables.

Call 17 636-363.

JUNE 21

MAKE MUSIC BAHRAIN

Alliance Francaise

Calling all amateur and professional musicians to participate in the one-day festival, Make Music Bahrain.

Organised by the French Embassy and Alliance Francaise, the event is held in the spirit of the ‘Fête de la Musique’ and features free performances by artists and musicians.

The event is open to the public and those interested to take part are required to submit a recording of their performance piece via an application form. The event runs from 4pm to 11pm.

Email scac.manama-amba@diplomatic.gouv.fr

JOJO FOR LAUGHS JUNE 21

BAHRAIN COMEDY CLUB

The Dilmun Club’s monthly comedy night brings to you another eventful evening of laughter with Jojo Sutherland.

This charismatic comic performs in comedy clubs worldwide where she is in demand as much for her compere abilities as she is for her comedy routine. Her natural stage presence alongside her “healthy neglect” attitude to life proves extremely popular amongst many and varied audiences including the armed forces where she remains as one of the few women to go to military bases to entertain the troops.

24 June 2019

Dilmun Club

She is regularly requested to support other comics on tour, the likes of which have included Jenny Éclair, US comic Louis Ramey, Four Poofs and a Piano and Tom Stade. She is also a popular TV warm-up artist for studiobased shows which have included the BBC1 sitcom The Old Guys and Badults on BBC Three.

Tickets are BD10, inclusive of a free pint and curry buffet. Doors open at 8pm and the event goes on till 11pm.

Book your ticket at the Dilmun Club reception.

Call 17 690-926. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

bystander

Graphic Design Exhibition 2019

A Graphic Design Exhibition was held under the patronage of Dr Khalid M Al-Khalifa, founder and chairman of the board of trustees of the University College of Bahrain at the university’s campus

BSPCA Quiz Night

A Ramadan Tent quiz night at the British Club was set up in support of our little furry friends at the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals with proceeds going to towards the running of the AWC shelter and funding the free CNR (capture, neuter, release) scheme for cats and dogs

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

June 2019 25

happenings

CHARITY BARGAINS JUNE 21-22

BSPCA SUMMER DESIGNER DAYS

Thrift Shop Busheiri Gardens

Head down to the charity’s second-hand store for some great bargains on brand-new and as-new homes and clothing items from designers such as Ted Baker, Emporio Armani, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Coast, Hobbs, Juicy Couture, Monsoon, Oasis and many other high street brands. There’s a ladies only day on June 21, from 1pm-5pm, and everyone’s welcome from 9am-5pm on June 22. Proceeds go towards the running of the Animal Welfare Centre and the ongoing free capture, neuter, release programme.

So, it’s a great chance to bag a bargain while supporting a worthwhile cause.

Call 17 593-479.

SUMMER OF CELEBRATIONS SUMMER JUNE 27 BAHRAIN FESTIVAL

Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort

The 11th edition of the Bahrain Summer Festival returns with an exciting one-month long programme under the theme of Our Year of Celebrations.’

The annual festival, which has become one of the most anticipated events locally and regionally due to its reputation of sensational line-ups of live shows and multi-cultural family-friendly entertainment, will be filled with diverse performances along with artistic activities, educational and creative workshops.

The festival, which will be located in Nakhool Tent at Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort in Riffa, will offer a variety of children’s activities and workshops. Nakhool and Nakhoola, the adventurous duo and famous faces of Nakhool Tent, will welcome all families and friends daily from 5pm to 9pm, except Sundays.

Along with the company of the beloved duo comes an exciting programme for all ages and will be open to the public.

Visit bahrainsummerfestival.bh

TRIBUTE BRUNCH JULY 5

SUMMER MADNESS

BRYAN ADAMS TRIBUTE BAND BRUNCH PARTY

JUNE 28

BEACH AND POOL PARTY

Dragon Hotel, Amwaj

Ladies & Gents, Ground Rulez is back with its very own Summer Madness pool and beach party which promises to be even bigger and better than last year’s totally memorable event. There’ll be a soon-to-be-announced line-up of local and international DJ talent, including Caz, Face and Swif as well as two European acts, The event runs from 1pm and space is limited, so arrive early to avoid disappointment. Presale tickets cost BD5 for ladies and BD10 for gents.

On the door the prices are BD8 and BD15.

Ground Rulez says: “It’s gonna be a massive one with the full intention to deliver all the best tunes that complete you. We guarantee to make you experience the craziest Summer Party ever... so make it count, dont miss it.”

Call 38 888-019.

Sherlock Holmes Bar & Restaurant

Sherlock Holmes is back once again with the most anticipated brunch on the island!

The Bryan Adams Experience is a celebration and tribute to the hit songs and enduring popularity of Bryan Adams. Formed in 1997, the four-piece band are based in Teeside, England and replicate live performances that can only be surpassed by Bryan Adams himself.

Prices are BD26 (Early Bird, Prestige Club, NSA, Gulf Air) and BD29 on the day for the unlimited food and selected beverages package. The event runs from 12.30pm through till 4pm.

Call 66 901-323.

26 June 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

Adventure Hub Life-Fit has a new location for its summer camp, at Adventure Hub in Galleria Mall. Enjoy up to two days a week of adventure throughout the summer. The camp starts July 1 and runs on Mondays and Wednesday finishing on July 31.

Kids from five to 14 years can enjoy a plethora of activities such as a high rope course, low rope course, caving, climbing walls and soft play.

Camp timings are from 9.30am to noon.

Registrations and payments can be made in advance through Life-Fitness Centre only.

Call 33 001-261.

Bahrain Ballet Centre The ‘Dance and Creative Camp’ at Bahrain Ballet Centre is now in the heart of the city, at Al Najma Club Juffair, for the month of July! Register before June 10 to receive an early bird discount of 10 per cent. The camp promises a variety of activities ranging from arts and crafts and team-building games to various dance styles including ballet, tap, modern, Bollywood, hip-hop, contemporary and more!

Camp runs from June 30 to August 29 at the studio in Barbar and on July 6, 13, 20 and 27 in Al Najma Club, Juffair. Timings are from 9am to 12.30pm from Sunday to Thursday at Barbar and it is open to ages five to 12 years.

Call 17 693-232 / 33 719-180.

www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

happenings

R E M M U S C A MDP-SU P RO U N Wahooo! Waterpark Eton House

Eton House Pre-School hosts its second annual Summer Camp with an early bird discount of 10 per cent if you register before June 13! The cost is BD50 per week or BD12 per day and BD250 for the whole camp! Hurry to register to get your discount, as places are limited. Camp starts June 30.

Call 17 490-333.

Life-Fit Register before May 31 and enjoy a camp at VATfree rates at Life-Fit in Janabiyah. Camp will run five days a week, Sunday to Thursday, from 10.30am to 2pm. Parents can choose packages of three or five days per week.

Girls and boys from three to10 years are welcome to enrol for the fun and fit activities, including gymnastics, indoor soccer, indoor sports, fun-fit, dance-fit, creative cookery, arts and crafts, taekwondo, team games, karate, street-dance and end of camp party. Camp runs from June 30 to August 29.

Call 17 692-424 / 33 001-261.

Explore a variety of activities at the Wahooo! summer camp with access to different rides and activities every day, Magic Planet, bowling, laser tag, fun factory, Cineco, Lego, taekwondo, gymnastics and American Girl to name a few.

Register at Wahooo! waterpark before May 31 to receive a 10 per cent early-bird discount.

Camp is from June 30 to August 29 on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am to 1.45pm and is open for girls and boys aged six to 14 years.

Register at Life-Fitness Centre, Janabiya.

Call 17 173-000 / 17 692-424.

Wild About Art Co. Join the summer camp at Wild About Art Co. in Juffair, for lots of fun and endless art techniques for all ages ranging from Stitchology and Artsy Smartsy for ages three to five years, Mixology for age six to 12 years and Art Methodology for ages eight to 12 years and teens. Choose your monthly or weekly plan and reserve your space before June 20 to take advantage of early-bird discounts.

Call 33 365-906.

June 2019 27

interview

As Middle East head of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), Lt Gen (Retd) Sir Tom Beckett is a seriously influential figure on both the military and political scenes, not to mention the man charged with running the Manama Dialogue. He told Liz O’Reilly about his journey thus far and what he sees as the most important threats facing the region.

Lt Gen (Retd) Sir Tom Beckett

A SECURE HOMECOMING

M

oving to Bahrain to take up the role of Executive Director IISS Middle East was something of a homecoming for the former British soldier. He explains: “I was born in Awali Hospital [his father was General Manager Refining of Bapco]. In those days, Bapco ran the Awali school, which took children up to 11.

Then pretty much all of us went to boarding school. But I lived here, in the holidays, until I went to university.”

And, like many others, that early experience gave Sir Tom a lasting affection for the island.

“There is actually a Facebook group for Awali teenagers, it’s for children who grew up here in the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s and there’s a reunion coming up – there are about 150 coming back and being hosted by Bapco.

“That’s indicative of how fondly people remember their childhood here in Bahrain. It was a great place to grow up, so unspoiled.”

From university, Sir Tom decided to join the British Army saying: “I think, from my early teens, I was attracted to the idea of being a soldier and was interested in military history.

There was a paper element plus the outdoors, which seemed ideal. I went to Sandhurst in 1984 and planned for a short-service commission – three to five years.

“In the military, you change jobs every two years or so. I enjoyed every job that I did and that’s what kept me going – turning a threeyear stint into a 34-year career. The low point, of course, was when soldiers under my command were killed but it’s part of being in 28 June 2019

I think, from my early teens, I was attracted to the idea of being a soldier and was interested in military history.” the military; you put yourself in harm’s way. But there were also a lot of highs.

“I did four tours in Iraq and, having grown up in the region, I had a reasonable understanding of the area. That led to my final appointment as DSAME – Defence Senior Advisor to the Middle East and North Africa – covering from Rabat to Muscat and visiting all points across the region, including Bahrain, four or five times a year.

“Essentially, because the UK has significant interests in the GCC and the wider region but, in reality, because familiarity matters.

“I was the advisor to the Secretary of State for Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff. As a senior officer visiting on their behalf to have bilateral discussions, finding out what our regional counterparts want, developing relations and reporting back to the UK on the feelings from the countries.”

Having obtained a Masters in security studies during his military career, Sir Tom became a member of IISS “because it’s a really good information source”. And, when his

predecessor decided to go into academia, he asked to be kept in mind for the regional role. “I thought it might work well because of my background; in some ways it’s thinking about the same problems that I was looking at in my previous job, coming into a research institute that’s doing the same type of thing,” he explains.

Was the opportunity to return to Bahrain an influencing factor? “Absolutely!”

IISS is an international research institute that provides objective information on military, geopolitical and geo-economic developments that could lead to conflict. Now in its 61st year, it has its head office in London, with regional offices in Washington DC, Singapore and the Middle East office in Bahrain.

“We have a number of research programmes. The first is defence and military analysis – we do an annual book called the Military Balance, which charts what 173 countries have as their military capabilities.

When it was first printed it was just an 11-page pamphlet listing the military capabilities of the Warsaw Pact and NATO. Now it is a book 520 pages long. The information is based on rigorous, in-depth open-source analysis drawing on, for example, imagery to identify what each country’s holdings are. Some countries are open about their military arsenals, others aren’t, so it is painstaking work.” says Sir Tom. “Military Balance-plus is the book’s online resource, regularly updated, which looks at trends in defence spending and procurement.

Other programmes are Conflict, Security and www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview Development and Non-Proliferation and Nuclear Policy.

“We also look at geo-economics, geopolitics and strategy because money and conflict are linked. You have to look at where the money is going to see if it might cause conflicts. For example, we have a large piece of work examining China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

“Cyber security is a critical part of conflict and conflict avoidance. Military Balance lists hardware and personnel but we now have a programme working out how to describe and list cyber capability.

“IISS is not an academic institute. We are a strategic-studies research institute. Our audience is governments, businesses, the media and experts across the world. Our goal is to provide facts and analysis that have policy relevance for our audience in the pursuit of international peace and security.”

As part of this role IISS organises two annual dialogues – Manama and Shangri La, in Singapore. Their function is to bring people together to discuss important strategic issues and attendees include international heads of state, cabinet ministers, defence chiefs and national security advisors, etc.

“Last year the keynote speech was by His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein of Jordan in which he focused on the ongoing and central importance of the Palestinian–Israeli Peace Process which is an important issue for Jordan, and the region,” says Sir Tom. “We also had the, then, US Secretary of State Mattis, who explained the US strategy for the region, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs from Saudi who, among other things, answered questions about the murder of Jamal Khashoggi.

“The Dialogue started on Friday and, on the Thursday, [Israeli PM] Netanyahu was in Oman and then Yusuf bin Alawi, Omani Foreign

Minister, came and spoke about that visit. The dialogue is a great opportunity for countries to present their policies, but they also have to take questions on them.

“Credit must be paid to the Government of Bahrain. We, the IISS, invite the speakers and delegates but I know that many come because of Bahrain’s soft power, as a convener of discussion. For example, a Minister of Foreign Affairs, in one weekend, can have bilateral discussions with six or seven other foreign ministers, something that could otherwise take months to achieve.

“The same is true for businesses. They are given the opportunity for high-level meetings.

One of our corporate members is a defence contractor who said that in the weekend they would achieve the same number of meetings as in six months [outside of the event].

“The other thing that was really good last year was that His Majesty, King Hamad, invited the key delegates to a dinner. On the Friday, His Royal Highness The Crown Prince hosted the delegates for dinner. That combination makes it a phenomenal event and I’m proud of being able to contribute, being able to bring together people to talk about the most important issues of the day.”

As Executive Director Middle East, Sir Tom leads a research team and also contributes to that research. The Middle East office operations team puts on an event each month. For example, concentrating on cyber security, on the sidelines of which the visiting expert spoke with many parts of the Government of Bahrain.

For the Manama Dialogue, the Londonbased Director General has a significant role but much of the work is done by the regional office. Sir Tom says, proudly: “His Majesty is reported to have said that Bahrain is famous for

three things – pearls, F1 and the Manama Dialogue. Bahrain, I know, has many more things to be proud of but it was an incredibly generous thing for His Majesty to say about the Manama Dialogue.

“Because it’s such a big event, the team from London comes out to help run it but everything else is done locally. As soon as one Manama Dialogue is finished, we start working on the next one! This year will be November 22-24. We are issuing speaker invitations now and it will be non-stop from here on in.

“The event is wonderfully supported by the Bahrain Government. When you bring in ministers et cetera, it’s a security issue. The government wants it to succeed – you can’t run an event like this without the support of the host government. I suspect that there is probably only one country in the GCC in which a truly independent think-tank, such as IISS, could operate, and I’m delighted we are based in it! Bahrain facilitates constructive challenge and debate. As an independent think tank, hosting the region’s most important security summit, I cannot think of a better country than Bahrain.”

For the future, Sir Tom believes the region is facing difficult times. He says: “In a nutshell, there are two main threats – extremism and Iran, which also includes an extremist element.

The region is going to have to consider how it contains and reduces these threats.

“We, as an Institute, will apply our expertise to help determine policy-relevant approaches.

Sometimes our analysis and recommendations will be popular at other times people may find them uncomfortable reading, but that’s the value of independent-of-government research.”

Manama Dialogue 2018 • 518 Delegates with more than 3,000 access badges (officials and advisors, etc.) were issued over the course of the weekend.

• Delegates came from 51 countries with 36 governments represented.

• From those 36, there were 20 ministers and nine military chiefs as well as three heads of international organisations.

• Cabinet ministers from the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa spoke in plenary sessions.

14th IISS Manama Dialogue 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

• Over the weekend, the Dialogue was covered 500-plus times in broadcast, print and online media reaching an audience of over 28 million people.

June 2019 29

interview

The island’s first and bestknown porcelain artist, Huda Al Saie’s works can be seen in high-profile spots such as Shaikh Ebrahim Centre, Bahrain Fort and more. She tells Liz O’Reilly what’s behind her decision to take up a new artistic medium for a show of acrylic abstracts.

Huda Al Saie

CHANGING ARTISTIC DIRECTION

W

ith her father passed away at a very young age, Huda’s mother, along with her aunt, built up a fashion business to support her family. Eventually, as Scada Group, they owned several boutiques in Moda Mall selling designers such as Roberto Cavalli and Christian Lacroix as well as a Betty Barclay outlet in Al Aali Shopping Complex. Both Huda and her sister took active roles in the business after graduating from university.

But Huda’s first love had always been art and in 1983, at her sister’s urging, she went to Geneva to study painting on porcelain. And though most other members of her class were elderly “there were one or two young girls but everyone else was much older” she found she really enjoyed this creative endeavour and a life-long second career was born.

Returning to Bahrain, she taught the subject widely, turning out many generations of porcelain artists while still helping to run the boutiques.

However, over the years, with the opening up of the regional markets coupled with online shopping, business declined. She says: “The heyday for the fashion business was the ‘80s, ‘90s and early 2000s. But these days, the 30 June 2019

I had also noticed, over the last few years that, these days, people seem to be less interested in handicrafts.” younger generation barely even go to the malls, they prefer to shop online which made business very tough.

“Two years ago, my mother passed away and my aunt decided to retire, so we took the decision to close down the shops.

“I had also noticed, over the last few years that, these days, people seem to be less interested in handicrafts. Where once I was teaching five classes a week, there just weren’t the people interested to study so much anymore.

“But, it’s good. It has given me the chance to think and decide it’s time for something new.”

Having minored in fine arts at the American University of Beirut, alongside her major in mass communications, Huda already had a

background in various different artistic mediums. And, once again, it was her sister who urged her to take her creativity to the next level. The result is an exhibition called Mirage of Colours which will run at My Café in Adliya from June 8 to 15.

Determinedly abstract in nature, the pieces are bright, texture filled and about as far from the delicate porcelains Huda is known for as it’s possible to be.

She explains: “The inspiration for the acrylics comes from feeling free in front of the canvas. Because, for 35 years, I was so busy between the porcelain, which is my love and my hobby, and the boutiques and travelling two to three times a year to source materials, that there wasn’t really time to venture to do anything else.

“I was working on this exhibition in the spring time, looking out at the garden. I started with patches of colours and was then trying to create rainbow colours. The pieces also feature black lines which are a technique I picked up from Instagram. And the names are open to each person’s interpretation of what they see.

“I’ve also added calligraphy, so people will see something familiar but very different from my usual pieces.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

BTM quizzed Scottish comedian Jojo Sutherland ahead of her appearance at the Dilmun Club’s comedy night this month.

LIZ O’REILLY

Jojo Sutherland

DEATH – IT’S A LAUGHING MATTER! Your start in comedy came through something of a medical epiphany. Can you tell us a bit about that?

In 2000 I had a brain haemorrhage. At that time, I was a single parent on income support with three children having just got divorced, had my house repossessed and on the brink of bankruptcy and I thought….comedy! Genuinely, I saw an advert for a stand-up comedy course and, having trained as an actor many years before, had decided, following the haemorrhage, that I wanted to get back into acting – having a life-threatening illness tends to make you revaluate what is going on with your life and I just knew I wanted to be back on stage.

Having made the decision to become a comedian, how did you actually go about getting started?

I did a 10-week comedy course and performed my first stand-up gig, of five minutes, in December 2001, I’ve never looked back – I went from short spots in local comedy clubs to performing all over the world and it’s only taken 17 years!

You’ve had a long association with the Edinburgh Fringe Festival but are also popular as a compere and participate in training.

Which role do you prefer and why?

I live in Edinburgh so am lucky to have the world’s largest arts festival right on my doorstep and have always performed in some capacity at each fringe, from stand-up to plays, to double act and running stand-up courses. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Stand-up is what I love doing most and where I can just be me either as a compere or doing a longer set.”

Stand-up is what I love doing most and where I can just be me either as a compere or doing a longer set. Comedy has led me to do all kinds of other things with radio and writing and also training and mentoring others, all of which give me a real buzz but nothing beats the spotlight on stage and a microphone in hand making people laugh sometimes about things that you wouldn’t normally associate with being funny – like nearly dying!

The Herald called you “deliciously cruel…The best antidote to mewling rugrats” what was that all about?

The Herald quote is in reference to the jokes I tell about my kids – I tend to use them quite a lot for my comedy – and my “healthy neglect” attitude to parenting.

Aside from Riches to Rags, which is apparently based on your own life, where does the inspiration for your comedy come from? How do you know if something’s going to be funny?

My poor kids bear the brunt of most of my

comedy and I tend to just take my real life on stage and share with audiences – I find out if it’s funny when I get up there and, so far so good. I tend to get a lot of positive reactions, I think because a lot of what I talk about is personal but relatable and most audiences can recognise themselves in what I laugh about. I very rarely get negative responses but that might be because I’m an angry Scottish woman and people are too scared (hahahah). I’m not really scary, but I’m very honest.

Is this your first time in Bahrain? Have you been given any tips of what to expect (other than soul-destroying heat)?

I’ve been to Bahrain a few times so looking forward to returning, although the heat and my pale, practically blue Scottish skin won’t agree and sadly it will be a bit of a flying visit although one that can’t pass without a visit to the souq.

Will you be doing your Riches to Rags show in Bahrain or do you have a different routine for on-the-road performances? Basically, what can the audience expect?

My solo show [Riches to Rags] is specifically about events that have happened in the last few years and will be at the Edinburgh Festival this year, so Bahrain audiences might get a sneak preview of some of what that is about but they will more likely get my observations on being a parent in a fast changing, technical world and my “life is too short, let’s have a laugh” attitude with perhaps a healthy dose of cynicism thrown in.

June 2019 31

commercefinance

Pria Masson Tanwar

Healthy Business Financial expert Pria Masson Tanwar looks at the economics of healthcare.

The rules for an ideal business opportunity are universal. One, there must be consistent and long-term demand. Two, there must be price inelasticity i.e. a customer that will pay for a service irrespective of price changes (for whatever reason). And finally, one that has scope for scale or expansion into new areas.

Almost no other industry checks as many boxes as healthcare does. But there is a complexity, health is not supposed to be a business – or is it?

World over, most governments provide some sort of healthcare. In fact, its one of the many things that we pay taxes for (or not). However, its equally true that healthcare is a fabulous business opportunity, which is why private healthcare, in its various forms, thrives alongside public healthcare almost everywhere.

The healthcare system is very complex though, with its variety of players and the depth of its penetration. If you look at a simple hospital (whether government owned or otherwise) the number of businesses and services linked in (or cost and revenue centres) are numerous. In any hospital, each item used for patient care, whether it’s sterile gauze or the MRI machine, is a revenue centre. Which means that it must be profitable. And each bit of equipment must be used as often as possible to make it financially viable.

But healthcare has a lot of ethical 32 June 2019

connotations. Thus, to make business sense, enter insurance companies. These companies take a premium from their customers. The maths of this premium is simple – they know that over a period, there is usually only a certain amount any individual spends on health care. The amount they get upfront in terms of premium, on an aggregate level, is meant to exceed those expenses. It’s like any service for which you pay upfront where the money is available for use by you if you need it, and while you do not need it, it can be used by the recipient – in this case the insurance company.

Simplistically, the insurance company then invests this money to make more money and deducts the payments that it makes to hospitals. It is quite a win-win – if the insurance company manages to stay afloat.

From a pure business angle, for a healthcare provider, every patient is a customer. Like all businesses the customer needs to be retained and asked to use a maximum number of services. And this is easier in healthcare because history is important. So, if you can have a common platform where the ‘client’ and the hospital can see a history of all interaction, it’s better customer service. Enter hospital management software, hospital apps etc.

Extend that to the various private clinics etc and there is a robust business opportunity in healthcare technology waiting to connect and improve patient experiences.

This also means that hospitals aim to expand the bouquet of services offered to

include economically viable options that can be technically merged with healthcare. Take cosmetic surgeries as an example. Or even obesity management. These are now robust revenue lines for most healthcare providers.

And they are the area of focus sometimes.

Because insurance won’t pay, so it’s direct cash and no one has any risks. Cosmetic surgeries or lifestyle issues are what, in economic terms, are called luxuries or the Luis Vuitton of healthcare. High margin business – good for patients and good for business.

It all sounds very commercial, but somewhere it must be. Where do economics and social good meet? They meet at the point where life-saving activities are priced at near cost levels. They meet where there is enough money being made by commercial avenues that are not core to health care, precisely so that core healthcare can thrive. The idea behind healthcare economics is a wonderful balance between greater good and profits. It is about having a client but treating them ethically – yet remembering this: for healthcare to be state-of-the-art, it takes money. And when money is invested, it must make enough money to at least stay afloat for the various entities to stay invested and motivated.

Because altruism without money to back it up, is but a theoretical concept.

You can follow Pria at her Instagram handle money_cues and know more about her experience at http://www.i2d-consulting.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

commercebusinessbites

Accommodation In Arabic

Medical Advances A Bahrain resident who had an aggressive tumour removed from her face has had her jaw reconstructed using 3D printing technology. In the first-of-its-kind operation in Bahrain, the innovative procedure was used at the King Hamad University Hospital. The 38-year-old Filipina underwent resection surgery on the entire lower right side of her jaw on which a massive tumour was growing. Thanks to a 3D printing centre in India, a titanium jawbone, which was created specifically to match her face and left jawbone, was constructed and fitted. The surgery was performed by KHUH consultant maxillofacial surgeon Dr Ranjit Divakaran.

Revamped Identity Cards The chief executive of the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA), Mohamed Ali AlQaed, announced the launch of the third phase of issuing the new revamped Identity Card, catered to all Bahraini citizens. The iGA has revealed the new look and feel of the card, designed to keep abreast of the latest international technologies and in line with the highstandards of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). Other technically advanced features include its durable material and resistance to damage, finer quality of font, as well as the new feature added to replace the Special Needs cards provided previously by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development.

Airbnb recently announced that its global accommodation and experiences platform will be available in Arabic to enable its growing community across the Middle East and North Africa region to access an even more seamless travel experience. The localised web platform and iOS and Android apps are part of the company’s ongoing commitment to

the region and will further its mission to create a world where anyone can belong anywhere. All the popular features of the Airbnb platform will be accessible in Arabic: listing pages with thousands of homes bookable for great stays, experiences around the world and lots of content on how to travel or host with Airbnb.

International Accreditation AMA International University Bahrain (AMAIUB) operates in line with the Kingdom’s Higher Education Council’s (HEC) directive to guarantee that institutions work towards international standards and focus on providing curricula that equip students with the skills required in the 21st century.

To this end, in July 2018 AMAIUB submitted itself to Institutional Accreditation (IA) under the rigorous scrutiny of accreditors from the British Accreditation Council, ensuring adherence to the highest internationallyrecognised standards. Recently, the university achieved a notable milestone by

attaining the much-coveted IA and achieving the quality seal of the HEC. Since it is now institutionally accredited, AMAIUB is opening its doors to students from across the GCC region and the world to produce highly-skilled graduates who will help make up the future workforce of choice locally, regionally and globally.

Expanding to Bahrain APCO Worldwide expanded its presence in the MENA region with the opening of a new office in Manama. Founded by Margery Kraus as a singleperson operation in 1984, APCO has grown to a global advisory and advocacy communications consultancy with nearly 800 employees based in more than 30 global markets. Jolyon Kimble, an www.bahrainthismonth.com

eight-year veteran of the firm, is leading the Bahrain office as general manager. Kimble is a former political journalist and communications expert specialising in developing media relations and stakeholder engagement programmes. APCO Worldwide deems Bahrain to be one of the fastest growing of the Gulf economies.

June 2019 33

commercebusinessbites

Tourism Boost Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA) has succeeded in attracting more than 10,000 Russian tourists through the charter programme operated by Coral Travel. As part of BTEA’s efforts to draw tourists from new markets to the Kingdom, the travel company launched its first charter flight from Moscow to Bahrain in October 2018, with an average of two weekly flights. HE Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, CEO of BTEA, said: “Through the cooperation efforts between Coral Travel and BTEA, the total number of Russian tourists has reached to 10,075 over the past six months alone. The

tourists’ occupancy rate is currently at nine nights, with the total expenditure of tourists arriving within the programme itself amounting to BD7,217,730.”

Bahrain’s First Virtual Worker Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB) has announced the appointment of its first digital virtual employee ‘Dana’, who will be “setting measures and instilling creative methodologies to ensure BisB’s portfolio of products and services is developed innovatively and simply”. Dana will be taking the lead in enlightening the public with general information on the bank and its products and services, digitally providing tips and insights on fin-tech and financial trends, and supporting the bank’s aim to improve engagement and interaction with customers across BisB’s digital platforms. This revolutionary step provides leading and innovative financial solutions to customers, contributing to the development of the Kingdom’s financial industry at large.

For a Good Cause VIVA Bahrain has recently announced the completion of its community-related renovation project at Bahrain’s psychiatric hospital, the main centre for psychiatric care in the country, which has been working to increase awareness of mental disability and promoting mental wellbeing for decades. The project focused on renovating the hospital’s garden area, which was designed by Art Reach, a non-profit group of artists and designers who volunteer their time and skills to work with students and community members to produce creative art installations in Bahrain. Plants and colorful mosaics were added to brighten up the space and create a happier environment for the hospital’s patients and visitors. A brand-new kids’ playground area has been installed to encourage outdoor activities and promote children’s physical development.

Good News for Movie Buffs

A Fruitful Alliance Capital Club Bahrain (CCB) and Bahrain India Society (BIS) have entered into a strategic alliance to generate a series of events and initiatives within the UAE and Bahrain that will support both a regional network of mentors and the younger generation to stir interest and investment, locally and globally, for new start-up ideas or expansion in the region. As the club enters its 10th year in the Kingdom it looks forward to cross-pollinate business opportunities between itself and BIS members. BIS was happy to sign this strategic alliance to further promote 34 June 2019

business and networking opportunities for its professional members by jointly bringing reputed international speakers and creating a platform of synergy for both the parties.

The National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) has recently entered into its first-ever partnership with VOX Cinemas, Bahrain, to give movie lovers a buy-one-get-one-free ticket offer.

Customers can take advantage by using their NBK credit card to buy movie tickets from VOX Cinemas. The offer is available at The Avenues – Bahrain and City Centre Bahrain and can be redeemed both online and at the cinemas, till April 2020. To celebrate the partnership, NBK hosted a special screening of the Avengers Endgame movie for premier customers and key media and social media influencers. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Edmond’s Retirement Party

On behalf of Patou Nuytemans, chief executive MENA, a dinner was held at Oliveto’s Restaurant to celebrate Edmond Moutran, founder, CEO and chairman of Memac Ogilvy, and all that he has accomplished

When Imagination needs to be - Limitless The Luxury has to be - Priceless The Design has to be - Timeless And The Coffee - Bottomless

Surf... Read... Sip...

R

Tel: +973 13 666 777

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

swissbelresidencesjuffair

alkhayyallounge

June 2019 35

bystander

ARG Ramadan Al Rashid Group held an opening event at Oasis Mall, Juffair showcasing its Ramadan activities

To view more images, scan the QR code

Batelco Media Ghabga Batelco held its Media Ghabga at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

InterContinental Ramadan The InterContinental Regency Bahrain opened up its Ramadan Tent for the Holy Month 36 June 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

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MOTORING

this month

Gut-whoopingly Insane Acceleration with Michelangeloworthy Design, p38

My Life in Cars Dick Potter ruminates on sexism in the car industry.

On a recent short flight – yes, indeed it was to Dubai to road test the Ferrari 812 – I swiped one of my missus’ magazines to while away the hour. Flicking past the ubiquitous accessories’ adverts – I consider myself rather well versed in the content of women’s magazines I’ll have you know, none of that caveman stuff for me – I came across a most interesting article indeed. Basically, it concerned sexism in the car industry. In the car purchasing industry to be precise.

Essentially, the author of the article explored the car industry’s emergent response to the male-biased environment which she felt many, but not all, car dealers continue to perpetuate.

It just might be possible to understand the prevalence of male staff in this industry if it were only men that bought and drove cars. However, women now have more disposable income than ever and are, increasingly, the primary customer, buying their own cars, with their own money, for their own pleasure.

Bravo for that ladies. Yet, this magazine article maintained, female car purchasers continue to feel their spending power is patronised, rather that recognised and respected by car dealerships.

In a particular country – it shall remain anonymous – a selection of females, across all demographics, was asked the following question. “How would you describe any dealerships you have been to – specifically the atmosphere and environment?” Here are some of the ladies’ responses. Gulp!

-Sterile -Male orientated -Stale, cold, unfriendly -Intimidating -Feels like you’re prey in a glass box (have to say this one was my favourite!)

To be fair, how often do we find women in the car www.bahrainthismonth.com

industry, apart from at the front and service desks? Not often enough, right? Might this have something to do with stereotypical traits, such as, caring/nurturing women at the service desk versus pushy/hard-sell men on the shop floor? In my opinion, salesmen who patronise women (on the assumption they know nothing about cars) are very unwise. Often as not, it’s women who make the final purchasing decision, especially for family vehicles. Perhaps, a more balanced gender presence on the showroom floor might help dispel any stereotypical opinions.

The era of billboards and magazines depicting women draped over the bonnet of a V12 are also, thankfully, fading. Another step in the right direction is that cars themselves are forcing changes, rather than car dealerships and manufacturers. Hybrid and electric vehicles, with an emphasis on lifestyle rather than performance, are now the trend that appeal to purchasers, not just females. For many – again, not just females – the car is now a place where more time is spent, after the office and home. This has shifted buyers’ focus from horsepower and engineering to the interior. In essence, both males and females have similar demands when buying a car. Cost, space and safety are just a few things we both consider important, I should imagine.

However, given the increase in female purchasing power, car dealerships would be wise to adapt accordingly. Some dealers already are. Did you know – I confess, I didn’t – Lamborghini has a Female Advisory Board which comprises women from the creative, health and finance industries? How cool is that? You knew Citroen has a female CEO, right? Nope. Me neither. As I finished reading the article, I pondered how the car industry in our neck of the woods is adapting to the changing female consumer? Ladies, do let me know your thoughts and experiences.

Dick@redhousemarketing.com

A Fresh Offering, p40

Positive Outlook, p41

World First for Skyline, p41

View more info online

June 2019 37

motoringtestdrive

Gut-whoopingly Insane Acceleration with Michelangelo-worthy Design

Ferrari 812 Superfast

Dick Potter put the seriously impressive Ferrari 812 Superfast through its paces in Dubai.

When I’m invited to a car test drive, I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that I look at previous magazine or on-line reviews of that same car – purely for research purposes you understand. I’m particularly geared towards a peek at what the chaps at Top Gear (geddit?!) might have had to say about it and whilst I enjoy their views, I am quite particular, of course, that they don’t necessarily reflect my own.

That was before I got behind the wheel of the Ferrari 812 Superfast. If you haven’t read Top Gear’s review on the 812, here’s the intro: “A rolling national anthem to everything that makes Italy great. It’s up there with the Renaissance and pizza.” Now, normally I’d counter such gushing with a stern “steady on their lads”. However, this is the Ferrari 812 Superfast they’re writing about, so I’ll let that intro go... this time!

I had the absolute pleasure of being given the keys of the 812, the successor of the F12 Berlinetta, in Dubai, for an entire day. There isn’t, in Dubai, or, come to think of it, anywhere in the Gulf, a public road that I could legally put pedal to the metal to push the 812 to its top speed of 340kph. In fact, not a mere kilometre down the Shaikh Zayed road, I caught a rapidly passing flash in the corner of my eye; hmmm, I somehow doubt it was paparazzi...! It did however give me the bright idea of a spin to the 38 June 2019

Jebel Ali Golf Club – yes, I like golf also, and no, I didn’t drive there to swing a driver. But the approach road there I knew would allow me, with no paparazzi, to give the car a bit of wellie.

Which, believe me, I did. The massive 6.5-litre engine thumps out a power output of 800 PS (789hp or cavalli vapores) through 12 cylinders, hence the 812 moniker, if you hadn’t guessed that already.

As you might imagine, the engine noise doesn’t disappoint, unless you’re trying to have a quiet siesta a kilometre away. The four exhausts howl and shriek that aggressive, expensive and resounding Ferrari sound.

The bodywork, designed by Flavio Manzoni, might even have garnered a nod from Michelangelo himself. That big, front, openmouth design gulps in air, not only to cool the www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringtestdrive

engine, but also to funnel air through the body.

This creates strong down forces which stabilise the car thus negating any fins or foils which would compromise its elegant lines. This creates the most powerful naturally aspirated car in current production, anywhere. The rear view of the vehicle – and I particularly like the touch of the Italian flag emblem – with the quad gaping exhausts also commands its fair share of admiration, albeit briefly, from other mere mortal cars as you flash by.

The steering is revolutionary from previous Ferraris in that it’s the first to have electronic power steering. It also utilises a rear-wheel steering system which shortens the wheel base thus allowing for more agility and stability at speed. Anyway, back to the Jebel Ali road, sprinting – the 812, not me – to 100kmh in a gutwhooping, insane 2.8 seconds, I had only

www.bahrainthismonth.com

enough road for four seconds with the pedal flat down in launch and race mode. If I’d had six more seconds of road, the 812 would have reached its heart pumping top speed of 340kmh.

You could argue that the 812 is all about the driving experience, so interior quality isn’t crucial. However, when you’re spending this much money – see last paragraph – quality has to count. The 812’s infotainment system is a small, colour screen and a rotary controller to the left of the steering wheel that you twist to scroll through the on-screen menus. Satnav, DAB radio and Bluetooth are all included as standard. Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring is, be warned, a hefty few dollars more-plus option. A second screen on the right side of the steering wheel displays the trip computer and provides in-depth driving information. The 812’s standard sports seats –

upholstered to Ferrari’s ubiquitously impeccable standards – get plenty of adjustment, as does the steering wheel.

In my past review of the Ferrari Portofino, I marked it an everyday, practical Ferrari. Albeit more expensive, the 812 can also slot into this category. This stems largely from its ample storage space, something not every Ferrari can boast. The 812 has 350 litres of it in the boot alone, which, with careful packing – or using Ferrari customised luggage – makes it perfect for a long road trip or something as everyday as doing the shopping. So, a GT and a Superfast then! Enzo Ferrari is reported to have said: “When you buy a Ferrari, you pay for the engine and I will give you the rest for free.” The 812 Superfast costs in the region of USD400,000. A reasonable amount for that awesome V12, I reckon.

June 2019 39

motoringnews&launches

Making the Cut

Al Haddad Motors has won the second place in the Mercedes-Benz GD Awards 2018 for Sales and Customer Services Super League, from a total of 54 contenders for this prestigious accolade. This significant recognition has had a very encouraging impact on the business. There has been a positive trend developing in the Customer Services department as Al Haddad Motors was able to increase penetration in the four- to eight-year-old vehicles segment and has seen an increase of 60 per cent in service contracts on new cars. Additionally, despite the market going down by 28 per cent year to date in 2019, Al Haddad Motors’ sales division was still able to increase its market share by 7.2 per cent to 19.7 per cent on the previous year. There is a range of new cars with unbeatable offers that customers can see at the showroom – GLE SUV, the AMG CLS 53, the AMG C 63s coupe as well as the four-door AMG GT 43.

A Fresh Offering Porsche is launching another powerful addition to its SUV Coupé range: the Cayenne S Coupé. The model is now available for order, with the first units expected to reach the market in October. The 2.9litre V6 engine, featuring twin-turbocharging and developing 440hp (324kW), is at the heart of the new four-door sports car. The maximum torque of 550Nm guarantees powerful acceleration, resulting in a time of 5.0 seconds from standing start to 100km/h in combination with the standard Sport Chrono Package. This figure drops to 4.9 seconds with the three optional lightweight sports packages. The top speed is 263km/h. In addition to the Sport Chrono Package, the standard equipment includes speed-sensitive Power Steering Plus, 20-inch alloy wheels, Park Assist at the front and rear including reversing camera and Porsche Active Suspension Management. Price details can be obtained at the nearest Porsche Centre.

Deserving of Praise The 2019 Genesis G70’s exquisite attention to detail has contributed to it being named as the ‘Best Luxury Sedan’ by Sports Motor, KSA. The magazine announces a list of best car awards each year to recognise remarkable vehicles, with judging criteria that involves the evaluation of essential features, unique design display and functionality that enhances user experience.

The award-winning Genesis G70 has been recognised by publications both regionally and internationally, as well as by review boards, winning ‘Car of the Year’ by the Motor Trend and ‘North American Car of the Year’ by an independent jury from North America.

These accolades are testament to Genesis creating some of the finest automobiles and related products and services for driving connoisseurs around the globe. The G70 has set new benchmarks in the luxury sedan category. Conveying the company’s ‘Athletic Elegance’ brand DNA, the G70 is a perfect synergy between breathtaking beauty and refined performance. These characteristics are integrated into the sophisticated exterior and interior of the car, alongside luxurious features that place the comfort of the driver as a top priority.

40 June 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringnews&launches

New Models for MENA Market Hyundai has confirmed the regional launch of the newgeneration Sonata sedan and the all-new Palisade SUV with both models to encompass bold design features and the latest in convenience and safety technologies.

The Sonata is the eighth generation of Hyundai’s long-running and extremely popular mid-size sedan, while the Palisade is an all-new flagship SUV. It will be a mid-size model, but at the more spacious and powerful end of its segment – longer, wider and taller than the newest Santa Fe which went on sale last year.

Available features include convenience technology, such as wireless smartphone charging and advanced levels of connectivity, large touch-screen displays and a head-up display to show essential information on the windscreen – immediately in the driver’s view without glancing away from the road.

They also offer a wide range of cutting-edge safety technology, with a selection of advanced driver assistance systems packaged as Hyundai SmartSense.

Positive Outlook

With a growing market share, sales volume and presence through industry recognition at the Middle East Car of the Year Awards 2019, Renault Middle East has a positive outlook for the coming year.

The first quarter results showcased the company achieving 3.54 per cent market share in the Middle East, a growth of +0.53 points on the same period in 2018. This saw Renault achieve a sales volume increase of 23 per cent when compared to Q1 last year, in an overall car market slightly growing by four per cent.

The main contributor to this growth in the GCC is the all-new Duster, which saw a 100 per cent increase in sales volumes compared to the previous model over the same period last year.

As the world’s leading car brands took centre stage at the sixth edition of the Middle East Car of the Year (MECOTY) awards, Renault Middle East made swift wins across multiple award categories. The highlight of the night was the all-new Renault Duster that won the prestigious MECOTY Public Award, claiming over 20 per cent of the 80,000+ votes received from around the world. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Hyundai Palisade

Hyundai Sonata

World First for Skyline Nissan is to equip the new Skyline with the world’s first next-gen driver assistance system which offers navigated highway driving and enables hands-off single-lane driving.

Expanding on the award-winning ProPILOT system, the technology will debut on the Japanese-market Nissan Skyline this autumn.

Designed for ramp-to-ramp highway driving, the new system engages with the vehicle’s navigation to help manoeuvre the car according to a predefined route on designated roadways. The new ProPILOT also enables hands-off driving while cruising in a given lane. When the vehicle approaches a road divide, or when passing a slower vehicle is possible, the system judges the appropriate timing of branching off or passing based on information from the navigation system and 360-degree sensing. Intuitive audio

and visual guidance are given to the driver, who is prompted to put both hands on the steering wheel and confirm the start of these operations with a switch.

The vehicle uses a combination of cameras, radars, sonars, GPS and 3D high-definition map data (HD map) to provide 360-degree, real-time information of the surrounding environment and the vehicle’s precise location on the road. The system uses this information to provide a smooth driving experience, similar to that produced by an experienced driver. A monitoring system in the cabin continually confirms that the driver’s attention is on the road.

ProPILOT is found on several Nissan models around the world including the 100-per-cent electric Nissan LEAF and the best-selling Qashqai, X-Trail, Altima and Rogue.

June 2019 41

bystander

K Hotel Iftar The K Hotel held a Corporate and Media Iftar at Kolors Restaurant during the Holy Month

K Hotel Charity Iftar The K Hotel held an Iftar for Al Sanabel Orphan Care Society

42 June 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

To view more images, scan the QR code

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bystander

BSH Ghabga Bahrain Specialist Hospital held its Ramadan Ghabga at Zytoun Restaurant, Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort

To view more images, scan the QR code

Ritz Media Iftar

A media iftar was held at the VIVA Masaya Pavilion, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain for the 2019 Ramadan festivities

To view more images, scan the QR code

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June 2019 43

bystander

Mercedes-Benz Iftar

An Iftar sponsored by Mercedes-Benz was held under the seethrough dome of Al Saraya Tent at Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain

Al Areen Ghabga

Al Areen Palace and Spa held a Ghabga to launch its new Al Qasr Ramadan Tent

44 June 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

To view more images, scan the QR code

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DINING

this month

Haus Rules Award winning executive chef, Fabian Sebastian Francis, talks to BTM about his journey to Haus and what the restaurant is all about.

Growing up on the Caribbean island of St Lucia, chef Sebastian had never imagined where life’s journey would take him. “My mother, a single parent, worked two jobs and it was my older sister who had to make us dinner,” he reminisces. “I never ate what she made, so I went into the kitchen to try my hand at cooking and found a passion in my love for it. At 22, I studied culinary arts at London’s Westminster College, which enabled my character and passion to align.”

Specialising in Pan Asian, French, Japanese and Modern European cuisine, chef Sebastian is grateful to have had many great opportunities to work alongside talented chefs. Starting, in London, as executive sous at the Bank restaurant, which boasts three-rosette fine dining, he stayed in the UK capital progressing to prestigious five-star property, The Sanderson, and renowned restaurants Chino Latino, Roka and Inamo, winning numerous awards for the latter.

This proved that the years of hard work and studying had paid off. “There were times that I wanted to give up this hard chef’s life of long hours, stressful environment and family neglect for a normal life, but I kept true to myself and my passion,” he says.

His Middle Eastern trajectory began when he was offered an opportunity to oversee the kitchen at Toko in Dubai. “Toko provided a great platform and stepping stone to my career in Dubai, and I have since consulted for numerous restaurants and hospitality groups, and also been head chef at a VIP residence.”

He then took up the role of executive chef at Haus, which is “a full-service dining experience inspired by homegrown flavours from the world’s best cuisines.

“It is an all-in-one concept featuring an ‘upscale casual’ restaurant, lounge and bakery with something for everyone. We are committed to offering sophisticated, yet not ‘fussy’, food in an innovative menu to the well-travelled customer, while maintaining an affordable price point.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

Chef Sebastian admits an initial hesitance to living in Bahrain has disappeared and that the island has grown on him. “The people are friendly and genuine; it’s what’s kept me here for two years and it’s a pleasure to make it my home.”

He has been involved with Haus since the idea was conceived. “I could not have found a better project where I can create and develop not just staff, but also cuisine to a standard of what and where Bahrain should be on the culinary spectrum,” he says.

After 25 years in his field, chef Sebastian has had the opportunity to work with brilliant chefs who influenced him to become the person he is and what he creates as a chef. He says: “I try to take all those experiences, whether it is management, creativity, menu development or innovation, to help me create something unique and amazing on a plate to satisfy my customers’ appetites. I research quite a lot to stay abreast of the latest culinary developments and trends to stay on top of my game.”

All the dishes on Haus’s menu get great reviews but the spinach salad, mushroom arancini, tomato avocado salad, truffle marble beef, strip loin and sea bream are always in demand. And chef Sebastian aims to add some more prime items such as Wagyu, lobsters and truffles, while trying his best to support the local markets for fresh produce.

He says: “Haus is a collaboration of inspirational ideas for creating a hybrid by combining homegrown food and fine dining, and losing the stiff restaurant atmosphere. It differentiates itself from other restaurants, in that it provides a much-needed unpretentious cuisine and atmosphere directed to its dining, lounge and bakery. The aim is simple – to provide patrons with a perception of higher value than the rest, through its dedication to first-class food, service and the relaxed feeling of hanging out in someone’s ‘Haus’.”

Be Spoilt for Choice, p46

Hidden Gems, p70 A Culinary Highlight, p47

Burgers on Demand, p48

Summer Fun, p51

View more info online

I am partial to home- cooked fare without the fuss and extra effort. Outside, always order something simple on the menu; you can tell a lot from a restaurant that can create a simple dish and execute it properly.

June 2019 45

tablehoppingeidbuffet

G N I P P EHO

TABL

t e f f u Eid B

A LOVELY LUNCH TRADITIONAL TREATS The Westin City Centre Bahrain invites patrons to the Furn Bistro Dinner Buffet for BD10, on the three days of Eid, from 7pm-11pm. Enjoy a selection of Middle Eastern and Khaleeji cuisine at the venue where Arabic chefs prepare delightful dishes from the menu in an open kitchen. The buffet concept will also feature popular local dishes, including everyone’s favourite – Ouzi.

Beverages will be charged as per consumption.

Kids aged six-12 years dine at half price.

Call 17 171-441.

DELECTABLE DINNER Saraya restaurant at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa will host a Grand Eid Dinner on the first three days of Eid, from 7pm-11pm.

Experience the joy of this festival with your loved ones over a special dinner presenting a mix of flavoursome international fare. Guests will be lost in a plethora of exquisite delicacies prepared by a talented culinary team. The meal costs BD20 per person. Children from six-12 years pay BD10, while those under six eat for free.

Call 17 636-363.

Eid is always a grand, festive affair at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. This year, the hotel will be taking traditional Arabic cuisine up a notch by infusing local flavours and aromas to bring you a savoury selection at its signature Eid Arabic Brunch during the three days of Eid at Saraya, Fiamma and Rivaaj restaurants from 12.30pm-4.30pm. Fill up your platter with sizzling mixed grills or tantalising seafood and celebrate with fun, live entertainment. Special arrangements are in place for little guests to ensure a delightful experience for everyone.

The gastronomic extravaganza is priced at BD25 per person, inclusive of soft beverages, or BD30 per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

Children six-12 years of age pay BD12, and those under six years eat for free.

Call 17 636-363.

BE SPOILT FOR CHOICE Festivities will commence at Bahrain Bay Kitchen, at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, with a three-day Eid al-Fitr brunch buffet, offering live cooking stations and a vibrant family atmosphere.

The feast will tempt your taste buds from 1pm-4pm, and is priced at BD30 per person, including soft beverages, or BD43, including selected beverages. Children below five years eat for free, and those between six-12 years get a 50 per cent discount.

Call 17 115-500.

46 June 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehoppingeidbuffet

A CULINARY HIGHLIGHT The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain has something special for islanders to make the most of the Eid festivities. On the second day of the festival this year, the property will stage a lavish grand buffet brunch at the new VIVA Masaya Pavilion set in the hotel’s grounds. The sumptuous feast offers musical entertainment and brunch favourites, alongside fresh artisanmade bread, braised meats, seafood dishes, traditional Arabic fare, mezzes and more. Priced at BD30 per person with soft drinks, or BD38 per person with special beverage pairings, guests can enjoy a wonderfully festive experience from 12.30pm-4.30pm. Advance reservations are recommended.

Call 17 586-499.

FESTIVE FAVOURITES Join in for a special upgraded Eid Lunch at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain’s sophisticated Al Murjan Ballroom to enjoy a wide selection of international dishes on the lavish buffet.

Select from festive Eid favourites, live cooking stations and varieties dedicated to Arabian, international, Asian-fusion and Indian cultural cuisine.

Guests are assured that the dessert station will not disappoint! The culinary presentation will be on from 12.30pm-4pm, priced at BD18 per person. Young ones between 6 to 12 years of age enjoy a 50 per cent discount, while those younger than six dine for free.

Call 17 460-017.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

REJOICE AND REVEL Celebrate Eid al-Fitr with tasty treats from the kitchens at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel at the popular Al Safir Restaurant. Tuck in to a gala buffet from 12.30pm-4pm for lunch, and 7.30pm-11.30pm for dinner. The lunch costs BD19.500+++ per person.

Children dine at BD8.500+++. The dinner layout will be an international buffet with an emphasis on Arabic cuisine, priced at 14.900+++ per person.

Call 17 533-533.

AWESOME A-FARE ART Rotana, situated on the beautiful Amwaj Islands, is taking Eid celebrations to the next level by offering an extravagant feast serving dishes from all over the world and catering for every taste, whether it’s the rich Arabic Ouzi with braised lamb over a bed of spiced rice, or freshly smoked short ribs. The various live cooking stations will provide many of your favourites, while the amazing dessert area will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. The special Eid entertainment will bring the Holy Month to a fitting end. The exclusive kids’ area is available for little ones to enjoy numerous Eid activities.

This gastronomic show will be on at Choices Restaurant and Terrace for the first three days of Eid, from 12.30pm-4.30pm. It is priced at BD25, inclusive of juice and soft drinks, or BD36 with house beverages. Kids below six years of age dine for free, and those between six and 12 dine for BD12.500.

Call 16 000-111.

June 2019 47

tablehopping

G N I P P EHO

TABL When? Weekends, June 13-21 Event? Tuck Dhina Dhin Dinner Venue? Rivaaj, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Explore authentic North-west Indian delicacies with a special Street Food Edition on weekends.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? Sunday to Thursday after Ramadan Event? Xpress Lunch Venue? Bay View Lounge, Four Seasons Bahrain Bay Spice up your weekdays with a lunch that fits perfectly into your busy day, with menus that change weekly.

E Call 17 115-000.

When? Sunday to Thursday Event? Business lunch Venue? Baharat Restaurant, Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain Pop in for a lunch buffet at BD16, or a soup and salad buffet for BD7.

Kids aged 6–12 dine at half price.

E Call 17171441 When? Every Monday Event? Seafood Night Venue? Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Experience a unique medley of succulent seafood delicacies for BD24, including soft drinks and water, or BD29, including unlimited selected beverages.

E Call 17 460-017.

When? Every Tuesday Event? Sushi ART @ WU Venue? WU Restaurant & Lounge - ART Rotana Explore an enormous sushi and maki display and live cooking stations offering delicious Peking duck and sashimi for BD15++, for unlimited sushi, or BD22++, for unlimited sushi and drinks.

E Call 16 000-111.

When? Every Thursday Event? BBQ De La Plage Venue? Le Bar De La Plage, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Savour a delicious selection of tenderly grilled meats and thirstquenching cocktails paired with live music.

E Call 17 636-363.

48 June 2019

BURGERS ON DEMAND The New York-inspired dining venue, Black Tap, located at the Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain, has launched its home delivery service in collaboration with Talabat and Hunger Station, making it easier than ever for fans to indulge in signature craft burgers, classic shakes and delectable sides in the comfort of their very own homes. In addition to its world-famous burgers and classic shakes, the home delivery menu will also feature Black Tap’s new bone-in wings selection. Customers can choose from a variety of super-stacked options, including the Texan Burger, or the Crispy Chicken Sandwich.

Call 77 707-070.

g n i n i une D

J

ESPECIALLY FOR YOU Enjoy a sumptuous buffet lunch and dinner or the option of a lavish à la carte menu at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel’s elegant Al Safir Restaurant.

The lunch buffet will be laid out from 12.30pm–3.30pm, while dinner will be served from 7.30pm–11.30pm. Both the scrumptious spreads are priced at BD10+++. The outlet accepts the Entertainer voucher’s ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ offer. Al Safir restaurant has a special offer for ladies, where they can enjoy the internationally-inspired culinary feast over lunch or dinner at a 50 per cent discount every Friday.

The prices for beverages are to be paid as per consumption.

Call 17 533-533.

AN ASIAN AFFAIR Discover the perfect Saturday Brunch at re/ Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck at the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay Hotel. Soak in the immersive views from the 50th floor and feast on mouthwatering Asian selections like Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns, Wok Fried Shrimp Dumplings and Brisket Wontons for BD32, including soft beverages, or BD44, including premium beverages. The brunch will run from 12.30pm-3pm. On June 15, the venue will host a Filipino-themed brunch.

Call 17 115-046.

A UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE Savour a special Kitchen Dining Experience at Wolfgang Puck’s renowned steakhouse, CUT. Embark on an interactive culinary journey at the kitchen counter, away from the typical setting of a restaurant dining room table. This opportunity is priced at BD48 for a five-course menu with soft drinks pairing, or BD67 with selected beverages. The sevencourse meal costs BD60 with soft beverages, or BD85 with selected beverages. This dining event is available Monday to Saturday during dinner service, between 7pm-8.30pm.

Call 17 115-044. www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping When? Every Thursday Event? Seafood Night Venue? Baharat Restaurant, Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain Savour a splendid seafood buffet for BD25 including soft drinks and water, or BD31, including selected free-flow beverages.

E Call 17171441 When? Every Thursday Event? Fisherman’s Voyage Venue? Choices Terrace -ART Rotana Feast on a bounty of seafood offerings and delicious island drinks with live entertainment for BD23, including soft drinks, or BD32 with house beverages.

E Call 16 000-111.

When? Every Thursday Event? Natak Experience Venue? Teatro Downtown, Downtown Rotana Every dish from the special sixcourse Natak menu tells a story about the culinary features of India, priced at BD16.

E Call 13 119-999.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAKED BRILLIANCE

GRILLED GOODIES Baharat Restaurant at Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain stages a barbecue night every Wednesday from 7pm-11pm. This stylish yet rustic barbeque experience on the terrace of the restaurant showcases fired ribs and Wagyu prime rib steak. The buffet is priced at BD19, including soft drinks and water, or BD26, including selected freeflow beverages. Live entertainment makes it an evening to remember.

Call 17 171-441.

This summer, the Furn Bakery at The Westin City Centre Bahrain will be buzzing with the Cake by Weight Offer. If you’re looking for a huge slice of deliciousness or a just a tasty little treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, head down to Furn for your choice, your weight, your slice, your delight! Five flavours will be available from Thursday to Saturday, 3pm-11pm. One flavour will be available from Sunday to Wednesday at the same timing. The upscale bakery also runs a not-to-be-missed Bread Promotion, where patrons can enjoy a 50 per cent discount on the entire bread display during happy hours every day after 6pm.

Call 17 171-441.

June 2019 49

tablehopping When? Every Friday Event? Ladies Brunch Venue? CUT By Wolfgang Puck Indulge in Wolfgang Puck’s favourite dishes for BD32, including soft beverages, or BD44, including the extensive beverage package. Ladies do not pay extra for the beverage package.

E Call 17 115-044.

When? Every Friday Event? Tasting Menu Venue? re/ Asian Cuisine, Four Seasons Bahrain Bay Partake in a special five-course tasting menu and be the first to taste the new items and be part of the dish development experience for BD35 per person.

E Call 17 115-046.

When? Every Friday Event? Summer Grand Friday Brunch Venue? Saraya, Fiamma and Rivaaj, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Enjoy a wide selection of gourmet international flavours from live cooking stations and an extravagant buffet.

E Call 17 636-363.

TO DAD, WITH LOVE Saraya Restaurant at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa pays tribute to fantastic fathers with a Father’s Day Summer Friday Brunch on June 14 from 12.30pm-4pm. Treat your dad to a special themed affair. Enjoy a ‘magnifique’ time out with a sumptuous selection of international buffet, live cooking stations and mesmerising live entertainment. Children are in for a treat at the dedicated kids’ corner and fun outdoor activities full of surprises. The brunch costs BD25 per person, inclusive of selected beverages. Children from 6 to 12 years enjoy a 50 per cent discount, while those under six years may join for free.

Call 17-636 363.

TREASURES FROM THE OCEAN Seafood lovers are in for a treat! Head to Fiamma Restaurant, located at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa from June 14-16 to enjoy the inimitable Campania Seafood Festival. From 7pm-11pm, indulge in a unique seafood extravaganza with a variety of à la carte dishes prepared live by the talented kitchen team, spearheaded by Italian chef, Marco Terranova. Your special night is complemented with live entertainment acts as you refresh your palate with a revitalising glass of grape.

Call 17 636-363.

When? Every Friday Event? Extended Friday Brunch Venue? Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain An excellent array of chef’s special delicacies and a lively atmosphere from 12.30pm to 5pm for BD36 including unlimited beverages.

E Call 17 460-017.

When? Every day Event? English Afternoon Tea Venue? Mezzanine Lounge, The Westin City Centre Bahrain Savour an elegant high tea from 3pm-6pm for BD15.300.

E Call 17 171-441 When? Every day Event? Special Set menu Venue? Furn Bistro and Bakery, The Westin City Centre Bahrain Relish Middle Eastern and Khaleeji dishes with your choice of one starter, main course and dessert for only BD10.

E Call 17 171-441.

When? Throughout June after Ramadan Event? Soup and Main Course Promotion Venue? Golestan Restaurant, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Try special soups during lunch and dinner; menu includes Sorba Adas, Khorest-E-Queema and Nana Koobideh.

E Call 17 533-533.

50 June 2019

TERRIFIC THURSDAYS

A SWEET FEELING Bahrain’s award-winning Sweetest Brunch, at Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain, is yours to indulge in for a sensorial and savoury Friday brunch experience at just BD28, including soft drinks and water, or BD40, including selected free-flow beverages.

Book for over 10 people and receive a 20 per cent discount. Entertainer vouchers are accepted. The buffet is staged every Friday from 12.30pm until 4pm, during which patrons can enjoy live entertainment.

Call 17 171-441.

What’s Thursday evening without great food, great friends and a great start to the weekend? Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain’s Thursday Night Out allows you all this and more.

Relish prime US beef, unlimited exotic cocktails, malts, grape, and gourmet food cooked to perfection at Al Murjan Ballroom for BD32, including unlimited beverages, from 7pm-11pm. The resident DJ will be playing tunes as guests dine to set the perfect mood for an eventful night.

Call 17 460-017.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

UNLEASH THE INNER CARNIVORE Meat lovers, rejoice! Flames Steak & Seafood Restaurant at the ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands will host the Tomahawk Steak event every day except Monday, from 6pm-midnight. Enjoy a glorious 1kg Tomahawk steak grilled to perfection along with two of your favourite sauces, assorted vegetables, potatoes and a selection of mustards served right at your table. The platter costs BD46++, and is good for two guests.

Call 16 000-111.

SUMMER FUN It’s time for the amazing Summer Friday Brunch at Flavours on 2, at the Downtown Rotana, where you can enjoy an array of international and local dishes during the months of June (after Ramadan) and September for BD22, including soft drinks, or BD33, with selected beverages. Expect an exciting live cooking station dedicated to making your food the way you like and a live performance to keep you entertained.

When guests book for four people, two dine for free.

Call 13 119-999.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2019 51

cafés

CAFÉ CULTURE Tea Garden

Ritz Gourmet Lounge

Not just limited to the boulevards of Paris, Bahrain can give the French capital a run for its money when it comes to café culture. BTM rounds-up some of the best spots to while away the hours with a cuppa and a book [JK Rowling famously wrote the early Harry Potter books in her local greasy spoon] or sit down for a glam afternoon tea with friends.

to bring a dessert. The signature Eid Cake is an indulgent sponge cake, decorated with festive elements featuring fragrant textures of vanilla, rose, strawberry, almond and saffron.

Close by, you can find a more traditionally English option at Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa’s Tea Garden. The ambience is chilled and the place is bathed in pastel florals with comfortable seating – perfect for high tea with a variety of teas, pastries, ice cream, gourmet sweets, macarons, chocolates and delicatessen delights.

Down the same commercial boulevard is Furn Bistro and Bakery, at The Westin City Centre Bahrain. Friendly stewards and the easy banter of chefs at work in the open kitchen give the sophisticated venue a laid-back vibe. The seating spills out into a corridor of the mall – a

great vantage point if you want to take a break and just people-watch, while enjoying a drink and a quick bite. Furn is known to have some of the most to-die-for milkshakes.

Heading into the hubbub of Manama, Espressemente Illy Café located in the main lobby of the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel serves exclusive variations of illy coffee selections as well as salads, snacks, desserts and bakery products. The venue has a timely Summer Coolers Promotion going on.

Across the junction, the Bay View Lounge sits within the soaring Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Savour international fare, freshly brewed afternoon tea or coffee, or chic mocktails. The view of the picturesque bay and live strains of the piano are enough to keep you company if you’re going solo.

Diplomatic Area is the last bastion of hardcore commercialism before you venture into more hospitality-centric Juffair. Here, finding a parking spot might bead your forehead with sweat, but Royal Café at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa will instantaneously revive you with its unique ambience, speciality coffee and delicious sweet or savoury bites.

Nearby, Crowne Plaza’s Cappuccino’s Café is Furn Bistro & Bakery

If you’re feeling upmarket, or have business associates to impress, many of the Kingdom’s stalwart five-star hubs have chic cafés nestled in their lobby areas. The French design of the Ritz Gourmet Lounge at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain will take you back to a golden era. Its menu is influenced by the legendary Auguste Escoffier’s world classics. A real treat if you’re heading to an Eid weekend gathering and need 52 June 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

cafés

Bay View Lounge

Lumee

perfect to hold your informal meetings, or even catch up on your emails with free WiFi access, while satiating the stomach with a warm or cold drink and homemade pastries.

Further down, in Juffair, the new Arch Hotel’s Sol Café is a coffee shop and casual diner all rolled into one, where guests can take in panoramic views from the fifth floor of the property. Atiram Premier’s Beans Sit Down Café gives off the awakening aroma of freshlybrewed coffee and scrumptious cakes all day.

The K Hotel’s Kolors restaurant doubles up as a vibrant spot to catch up with friends over a quick bite, or a leisurely one, if you please.

Zip down to the end of any of the main arteries of Bahrain, and you will find yourself at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. The Lobby Lounge’s décor blends Bahraini style with elegant French touches. Plan a rendezvous over choices of coffees, teas, fresh pastries and à la carte dishes with a view of the sophisticated atrium and the sea. www.bahrainthismonth.com

If you are a mall maverick, and your summer days are all about shop-till-you-drop, then you’re set, because Bahrain’s world-class retail arcades have so much to offer in terms of café culture. For those trailing the corridors at City Centre Bahrain, Paul Bakery and Restaurant is just right to rest your tired feet while biting into a silken éclair or the outlet’s many delectable pastry options. This French brand also has shop at the next-door outlet, Seef Mall. The adjacent Al Aali Shopping Complex is home to Lumee Street Café, which captures the essence of Middle Eastern street food in a contemporary café\deli setting. Saar Mall also houses a branch of this homegrown café chain, as well as Le Chocolate, the tried and tested go-to for quality coffee, cakes and delicious fare. The flagship outlet of course is the better-known standalone outlet in Seef – a firm favourite with the office-going crowds.

If you’re in the residential vicinity of Zinj and wonder what a café in the Great White North offers, step into the Canadian import that is Tim Hortons. The funky café serves a diverse crowd with great coffee options, sandwiches and baked goodies. Don’t forget to sample the signature Timbits – a winner with both adults and kids alike.

When it comes to standalone cafés, there is a plethora scattered across the island though Café Lilou rules the roost in Adliya and Dome Café is the real deal in Juffair. Both these establishments have been around long before the newer coffee shops were born, and are household names in their own right. Café Lilou, with its Parisian panache, is loved by foodies for its Moulin Rouge-reminiscent interior and contemporary culinary offerings, not to mention a great shot of coffee through the day.

Did you know that Dome Café started out as a speciality coffee roasting business in

The Lobby Lounge-Sofitel

Veranda Café

Australia? It now operates in more than six countries, offering an unparalleled coffee experience any time of the day.

Adliya also boasts Verandah, a lifestyle café offering a variety of fusion dishes in a unique gallery ambience. There is a speciality fruit juice bar, a bakery and an ice cream delicatessen. Other notable cafés in the dining district include the very artsy Gallery Café (at the stylish Gallery 21), My Café, which is actually somewhat misleading in its name as it is in fact a rather fabulous restaurant, and the uber Parisienne Angelina Paris.

If you find yourself in the stunning precincts of Reef Island, Coffee World offers a range of hot and iced coffees with complementing foods such as waffles and sandwiches, as well as signature cakes, muffins and cookies. On another manmade island, that of Amwaj, Diablo Café at The Lagoon will be your respite from the mundane, where you can gorge on tasty bites and sharp coffee with a pretty view. Other indigenous names in the area include Mazaj Café, Hala Café and Um Kalthoum Café.

To be honest, this round-up features some of our favourites, but the list of great cafés is ever growing and virtually endless, since there are new ones opening up all the time.

Why not tell us about your favourite online at www.thebhrg.com Cheers!

June 2019 53

bystander

Four Seasons Media Ghabga Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay held a Media Ghabga in its Arabasque Tent

To view more images, scan the QR code

Al Tamimi & Co Ghabga Al Tamimi & Co held a Ramadan Ghabga at Bushido Restaurant

54 June 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

bystander

Le Meridien Media iftar

Le Meridien City Centre hosted a Media Iftar at Baharat Restaurant with highlights on an éclair corner where guests could make their own éclairs and an illy coffee corner where Vince, the hotel’s master Barista, prepared special coffee selections

To view more images, scan the QR code

The Maserati Ghabga Under the patronage of Dr Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa and in collaboration with Italian Ambassador, HE Domenico Bellato, The Maserati Club Bahrain held a Ramadan Ghabga at Al Areen Palace & Spa

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

June 2019 55

bystander

KIMS Ghabga

KIMS Bahrain Healthcare held a Ghabga at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Bahrain Bourse Ghabga Bahrain Bourse and Bahrain Clear held a Ghabga at Wydham Grand Manama

Fraser Iftar Fraser Suites held a Ramadan Iftar at The Gallery Restaurant

56 June 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

technologygadgets

GADGETS

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

WOODEN MAGNETIC SMARTPHONE HOLDER

LEXON NUNO WATCH

This is a functional, wooden smartphone holder that you can attach easily on any surface, such as fridge, kitchen rack, walls or your car dashboard, in order to hold your phone. Simply attach the connection plate onto your phone or between your phone and case and that’s it.

Available from www.red5.co.uk

A timepiece with minimal design, it’s a simple quartz analogue watch with a Ronda movement. With no numbers featured on the clock face and the watch hands being cut out as engravings on round dials, Nuno is one of a kind.

Available from www.amazon.com

PALO ALTO AUDIO DESIGN CUBIK HD USB SPEAKER SYSTEM

A new kind of speaker that brings 24-bit sound to your device. It’s practically compatible with all your smart devices across all operating systems and since it uses a USB port for connection, it can charge them too while streaming music.

The powerful chip present within has a DSP (digital signal processor), DAA (digital audio amplifier), and USB sound card which does not allow sound to step out from the digital domain.

Available from www.paloaltoaudio.com

FLIP 10 RECHARGER

This ultra-compact and portable charger packs in 2,600 mAh with 1A output. It can be charged in and out by using the USB flip tip and the included micro USB charging cable. Taking just 2.5 hours to become fully charged, the Flip 10 Recharger can also connect to a compatible Goal Zero solar panel to top up, even when you’re not near a power source.

Available from www.amazon.com

PRYME VESSY

Keep on top of your hydration levels with this gadget.

Understanding that each day is unique as are your hydration needs, this water bottle works with a smart app to ensure you’re on track each day. A small light on the side alerts you when it’s time to hydrate and the bottle communicates with the app with each sip and gulp. The smart app takes everything from your height and weight to hours of sleep into account to create your daily hydration goals.

Available from www.red5.co.uk

57 June 2019 www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2019 57

technologygames

GAMES VERDICT:

A disappointing project that promised much more.

RATING: WHAT IS IT?

Days Gone is an open-world action game set in the high-desert of the Pacific Northwest two years after a mysterious global pandemic has decimated the world, killing most but transforming millions into mindless, feral creatures. Survivors live in a world where resources are scarce, violence and murder are common and Freakers roam the wilderness.

DAYS GONE

GAMEPLAY

Through its 60-odd-hour ride, Days Gone loses its focus with repetitive missions, a meandering and thematically unsatisfying storyline and an excess of bugs and busywork. When you slow down for a minute or two, these issues combine with a dreary, uninteresting open world and add up to an uneven and mostly toothless zombie experience. The game is also too easy; with long grass and plenty of cover, AI is rarely clustered together and it’s easy to just pick enemies off without getting into a big scrap.

GRAPHICS

There are notable framerate dips while playing and constant instances of objects (or whole areas) popping in and out. The former issue is most troubling when you’re riding at speed on your motorcycle and Days Gone momentarily freezes as if struggling to keep up. It’s nothing game-breaking, but it was a constant reminder that things aren’t as smooth as they should be. The world is pretty enough and full of dense forest, winding roads and snow-capped mountains, but if you look closer it’s also relatively sparse, with little world-building to differentiate one area from another and not a lot of surprises to be found in its sprawling land mass.

A PLAGUE TALE: INNOCENCE

A Plague Tale: Innocence follows the story of two siblings, Amicia and her younger brother Hugo, fighting to survive during the first phase of the Hundred Years’ War and Black Death. The game is a series of survival puzzles, mostly consisting of methods to scare away or distract the hordes of hungry rats, or direct them towards murderous knights.

58 June 2019

MORTAL KOMBAT 11

Mortal Kombat is back and better than ever in the 11th evolution of the iconic franchise. The new Custom Character Variations give you unprecedented control to customise the fighters and make them your own. The new graphics engine, showcasing every skull-shattering, eyepopping moment, brings you so close to the fight you can feel it. Featuring a roster of new and returning Klassic Fighters, Mortal Kombat’s cinematic story mode continues the epic saga over 25 years in the making.

SUPER MEAT BOY FOREVER

Super Meat Boy is back for new platforming challenges designed for simple, tactile gameplay without simplifying the gruelling SMB gameplay. The game features a full story, six chapters and double the bosses the original game featured.

There is a vast randomly generated level structure that ensures a totally new play experience with each death.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

technologyapps

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

WHAT IS IT?

We live in the ‘selfie era’, and research has proven that mobile phones are the source of the lion’s share of all the world’s photography, with self-portraits on a laser-targeted mission to become the most common type of photo.

As such, Facetune’s interface features a ton of options to customise your selfies. When you start, you see a mostly plain white field with buttons across the bottom for Canvas, Whiten (for teeth), Smoothing, Details, Reshape, and others for a total of 11 options.

THE GOOD

The interface is extremely user-friendly. When you choose one of the tools, a mini-tutorial page on its use shows up first, including short videos that demonstrate the tools. This means you always know exactly what you’re doing and can choose which features to enhance. There are undo and redo buttons too, which seem like obvious additions but are missing from so many similar apps. No more discarding an hour’s work because you accidentally gave yourself a receding hairline!

THE BAD APP: FACETUNE The worst aspect of the app is a lack of tilt option. There is only RATING: 90-degree rotation, which is annoying if you want your angles just right. correction is also quite fiddly and requires a delicate touch VERDICT: One of the best apps to touch up your photos. Red-eye rather than just an automatic button-press.

APP: STAR WALK 2

APP: MICROSOFT WORD FLOW KEYBOARD

A rebooted and much-improved version of the premier astronomy app. Star Walk 2 shows a starry sky on your phone or tablet screen in whatever direction you are pointing the device. This is true for day or night; during the day, you can see the Sun and the stars and planets portrayed in a twilight-blue sky. At night, the stars are visible against a black background. To navigate, you pan your view on screen by swiping in any direction, zoom out by pinching the screen or zoom in by stretching it. There is also a clock interface to travel thousands of years through time to see how the heavens move.

For those who have a nightmare with smartphone keyboards and wage a constant war with Autocorrect, this app is for you. The best part of the Word Flow Keyboard is that it lets you enter words with shape/gesture writing, which is continuously sliding your finger through the letters of a word, which is then predicted by the keyboard and entered. You don’t have to type spaces with this kind of entry, and World Flow shows the path of your finger swiping with a dotted green line. The idea is that your muscle memory starts to actually learn the shape of words, rather than the spelling, for super-fast text entry. It also has an arc mode for onethumbed typing.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2019 59

bystander

Saar Mall Labour Day

Saar Mall held an event on the occasion of Labour Day

technologywebsites

To view more images, scan the QR code

websites

SITE: https://builtwith.com/ RATING: VERDICT: A vital tool for business and web developers.

WHAT IS IT?

BuiltWith is a useful website for businesses that lets you check what platform a website is built on, what front-end or back-end is it based on and other key website-related details as such.

THE GOOD

The ability to get website analysis and technology trends can be used in other applications including improving your own existing website or determining what gaps it may have. Developers are also able to ascertain the type of technology that was used to achieve various tasks and functions related to website designs and interfaces.

THE BAD

The sorting in the reports page is quite cumbersome. If you want to sort the websites in an ascending order of Alexa traffic ranking, it shows all the websites without the ranking first and you have to comb through and scroll down to find the relevant data. There’s also a limit on what you can access without subscribing.

The Tax Dodgers at JJ’s

An after-brunch party with The Tax Dodgers was held at JJ’s Irish Restaurant

www.chesscademy.com To view more images, scan the QR code

Chesscademy is an interactive website and a fun way to learn how to play the game of Chess. The site also features tons of videos and puzzles to master yourself in the game. When you first join, you’ll play against the computer which will assess your current chess ability and adjust the puzzles open to you accordingly, so it’s accessible for people of all abilities.

www.agoodmovietowatch.com A perfect site for movie maniacs. If you’re one of those people who never seem to be able to find something cool and interesting to watch, this website provides you with Staff Picks and Random Suggestions to find your next watch.

There’s also a cool randomiser tool which you can sort via genre or availability on popular streaming platforms.

60 June 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Computers held its Almoayyed Computers Ghabga Almoayyed Ramadan Ghabga

Ghabga Ambassador Dr Dhafer and Dr Jihan Alumran held a Ramadan Ghabga

Strathclyde Ghabga The University of Strathclyde Business School held a Ghabga at the Capital Club

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

To view more images, scan the QR code

June 2019 61

entertainmentmusic

VAMPIRE WEEKEND FATHER OF THE BRIDE

BIG THIEF U.F.O.F.

01

The title track’s skittering drums, meandering arpeggio guitars, and humming synths create an otherworldly undercurrent for wispily delivered lyrics. A foray into artful album rock for the band, U.F.O.F.’s shifts in presentation are subtle and seem wholly organic throughout. It’s a record deserving of such an evocative title, which captures its dreamily impressionistic yet unsettling nature.

PATIENCE VERDICT:

DIZZY SPELLS

A brilliant change of mood

WHAT’S THE STORY?

During the six years between previous album Modern Vampires of the City and latest release Father of the Bride, things that seemed essential to Vampire Weekend changed drastically. Founding member Rostam Batmanglij left to pursue his solo career, while Ezra Koenig left the East Coast to settle in Los Angeles. These shifts in line-up and location are just a few of the changes Vampire Weekend take in stride on their fourth release. The album is musically diverse, and heavily referential, contrasting dark and direct lyrics over a bright spring-time musical mood, with a stronger American influence than on the group’s previous work.

WORTH A LISTEN?

After reaching peak musical and lyrical density on Modern Vampires of the City, they’re reborn with a new perspective and pace on Father of the Bride, giving all 18 of its songs more room for their novelistic detail and surprising juxtapositions. It’s easier to hear and feel where the band is coming from, in large part because Koenig’s song writing is clearer than ever. As the album runs on, it offers a few moments of unmitigated joy. Stranger sings the praises of everyday life as a balm against the outside world; similarly, We Belong Together serves as a cosy reminder that as difficult as they can be, relationships are one of the few sources of stability in an increasingly volatile world. More complex yet more direct than anything they’ve done before, F2 finds Vampire Weekend embracing change and delivering some of their most mature and satisfying music in the process.

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02

Throughout this album, Patience proves as adept at pressing keys and programming synths as she was at strumming a guitar, and the different setting gives her a chance to stretch vocally in ways she might not have been able to if buried in reverb and live drums. She sings more assuredly while never giving away too much. She holds on tight to mystery and reserve even when the melody and arrangement yearns for her to break free.

BAD RELIGION AGE OF UNREASON

03

The West Coast punk legends’ 17th studio effort and first full-length outing since 2013’s True North, Age of Unreason couldn’t have arrived at a more divisive time, which suits Bad Religion’s particular brand of melodious socio-political punk just fine. While there’s nothing on Age of Unreason that would sound out of place on anything that came before it, the band’s commitment to keeping the genre vital, both musically and lyrically, feels as necessary as it does timely. www.bahrainthismonth.com

X-MEN

S E I V MO

entertainmentfilmreleases

Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-fi Release Date: June 7 In 1992, nearly a decade after the events of X-Men: Apocalypse, the X-Men are national heroes going on increasingly risky missions. When a solar flare hits them during a rescue mission in space, Jean Grey loses control of her abilities and begins to develop incredible powers that corrupt and turn her into a Dark Phoenix. Now the X-Men will have to decide if the life of a team member is worth more than all the people living in the world.

DARK PHOENIX

MEN IN BLACK INTERNATIONAL Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Sci-fi Release Date: June 14 The hugely popular franchise returns with a new generation of good guys (and girls) intent on battling the bad guys of the universe. This time, it’s Agents H and M who’re using all manner of high-tech weaponry to keep the Earth safe from intergalactic villains.

SHAFT Genre: Action, Crime Release Date: June 14 Three Shafts in one as John Shaft Jr (Jessie Usher), a cyber security expert with a degree from MIT, enlists the help of his estranged father, John Shaft II (Samuel L Jackson), to uncover the truth behind his best friend’s untimely death. As the pair become embroiled in the Harlem underworld, they team up with the legendary original John Shaft (Richard Rowntree), who first brought the character to life in 1972.

CHILD’S PLAY

TOY STORY 4

YESTERDAY

Genre: Horror Release Date: June 21 Chucky’s back in a contemporary reimagining of the 1988 horror-slasher flick that put some of us off dolls for life! A mother gives her son, Andy, a toy doll for his birthday unaware of its sinister and scary nature. When Chucky gets up to his old tricks, Andy and his friends go into battle.

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy Release Date: June 21 Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang embark on a road trip with Bonnie and a new toy named Forky. The adventurous journey turns into an unexpected reunion as Woody’s slight detour leads him to his longlost friend Bo Peep and a revealing discussion on what each wants from life as a toy.

Genre: Crime, Drama, Music Release Date: June 28 Jack Malik is a struggling singer-songwriter in an English seaside town whose dreams of fame are rapidly fading. After a freak bus accident during a mysterious global blackout, Jack wakes up to discover that The Beatles have never existed.

Performing songs by the greatest band in history to a world that has never heard them, Jack becomes an overnight sensation with a little help from his agent.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2019 63

entertainmenttvreleases

FANCY SOME CHILL-TIME AT HOME? CHECK OUT THESE LATEST TV SERIES TO HIT YOUR SCREENS. MALIBU RESCUE: THE SERIES

After getting in trouble one too many times, Tyler’s stepfather punishes him by sending him to the Malibu Junior Rescue Programme where he meets a ragtag group of kids from the Valley. Together, the group sets out to prove that they deserve to participate along with all the other kids from Malibu and come together as a team to win a big lifeguard competition and earn their own tower for the summer.

DESIGNATED SURVIVOR

As a lower-level cabinet member, Tom Kirkman never imagined something would happen that would catapult him to the Oval Office. When a devastating attack on the night of the State of the Union address claims the lives of the president and most of the Cabinet, the Housing and Urban Development Secretary – who was named the designated survivor in case of such an event – finds himself promoted to leader of the free world.

MURDER MYSTERY

Adam Sandler is returning to Netflix for his fourth exclusive movie for the streaming platform and for this one, Adam isn’t the only big star involved. Jennifer Anniston plays his wife as they travel to Europe for a getaway. After being invited to a dinner and a subsequent murder, they have to prove their innocence.

ALL OR NOTHING: NEW ZEALAND ALL BLACKS

The Prime Original docuseries All or Nothing turns its cameras from American football to international rugby.

The All Blacks, New Zealand’s national team, are to World Rugby what the New England Patriots are to the NFL – and then some. The All or Nothing crew follows the All Blacks’ 2017 season on and off the pitch.

GOLIATH

Billy Bob Thornton stars as Billy McBride, a former star litigator who is struggling to shed his alcoholic haze and reclaim his law career. The second season finds Billy defending a teenage boy against murder charges. His investigation uncovers a sinister web of crime and deception.

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LOST IN OZ

Lost in Oz follows the exploits of Dorothy Gale, a modern girl who gets swept away to a very 21st century land of Oz. As Dorothy tries to get back to Kansas, she learns about her secret family history. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Viva Ghabga VIVA Bahrain held its annual Ramadan Media Ghabga at the VIVA Masaya Pavilion, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain

Iftar by Marriott for Al Sanabel

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

An Iftar gathering for Al Sanabel Orphan Care Society was held at the Residence Inn by Marriott Manama Juffair

To view more images, scan the QR code

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bystander

Sofitel Ramadan Tent The grand opening of Layali Al Zallaq Ramadan Tent was held at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

To view more images, scan the QR code

Sofitel Gergaoun Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa hosted a grand Gergaoun celebration

To view more images, scan the QR code

The Joint Rotary Ghabga Rotary Club of

Manama and Rotary Club of Sulmaniya jointly held a Ramadan Ghabga

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www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

lifestylewhat'snew

WHAT’S NEW

TRAVEL IN STYLE Much talked about since it was teased at Longchamp’s New York fashion show in February, Longchamp LGP is about to hit the streets for real – and it’s sure to prove a perfect fit for today’s urban lifestyles with a collection that spans bags, accessories and ready-to-wear, with lots of unisex options too. This jumble of letters is a quirky take on the usually staid monogramme and with the collection also offering wheeled travel bags, you’ll never lose your luggage on the conveyor belt again.

Available at Longchamp.com

LIBERATED FRAGRANCE Portrayal Man from Amouage has a woody and leather aroma. With vetiver at its heart and top notes of violet leaves, the fragrance emits a dandy yet masculine impression with a woody base of cade.

At the heart of Portrayal Woman is a smoky yet sweet mélange created by the fusion of Craven ‘A’ tobacco with a dusting of vanilla. Brought together with jasmine at its top and elemis at its base, it recreates 1920s’ liberation.

Available at Amouage.

Scan the code for a chance to win on our social media.

SUMMER SPECTACLE Italian pret-a-porter brand Lui Jo has come up with a fun, stylish range of sunnies and frames aimed at teen specs wearers. The sunglasses come in funky colours and cat-eye or hexagonal designs while the optical frames are equally as stylish with a retro cat-eye shape or a classic rectangular frame.

Available at farfetch.com

HOME SENSE FAST FEET You know the sound of a racing car? It’s the sound of power. A legend in the tyre industry, Pirelli dominates that power both on and off the track. And now you can feel the excitement of the race track at your feet. For the first time, Puma and Pirelli join forces to bring control to your feet. Combining Pirelli’s Cinturato Blue tyre, used at the top level of racing, with Puma’s motorsport heritage, the new Replicat-X is designed to perform like a modern supercar, bringing the track to the street.

Available at leading sport retailers. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Find a fun new range of homeware from international fashion house Peter Pilotto exclusively debuted on matchesfashion.com.

The capsule, designed to adorn the table top, was born from Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos’ love of hosting and entertaining. Peter Pilotto has worked in collaboration with Once Milano on matching sets of linen table cloths and napkins, 1882 Ltd ceramics, as well as a Peter Pilotto edit of Sohdu Wasabi cutlery.

Available at matchesfashion.com June 2019 67

lifestyletravel

AN INDONESIAN ADVENTURE A little trip away is always welcome, so BTM was delighted at an invite to sample the joys of buzzing Jakarta and beautiful Bali.

T

his Southeast Asian archipelago is made up of thousands of volcanic islands which are home to hundreds of different ethnic groups. It’s known for beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans and tigers.

We missed out on most of the wildlife this time around but we did get to check out some other highlyrecommended spots.

Clockwise from above: Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair; Istiqlal Mosque; National Monument; Dunia Fantasi (DUFAN); Taman Mini Indonesia Indah; Ayer Island Resort & Cottages.

JAKARTA National Monument The National Monument is a 132m tower in the centre of Merdeka Square, Central Jakarta, symbolising the fight for Indonesia. Construction began in 1961 under the direction of President Sukarno and it was built to commemorate the struggle for Indonesian independence.

The monument is obelisk shaped and is topped with a 14.5m bronze flame coated with 32kg gold leaf.

Also known as Monas or Monumen Nasional, it houses the first red-and-white flag flown at the Proclamation of Independence on August 17, 1945.

However, this original flag has now become threadbare, so nowadays for Independence Day ceremonies, it is taken out but only to accompany the replica flag to be flown in front of the Merdeka Palace.

Istiqlal Mosque Istiqlal Mosque is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia and the third largest Sunni mosque in terms of

68 June 2019

capacity. The country’s national mosque, it too was built to commemorate Indonesian independence and named Istiqlal, an Arabic word for independence.

Jakarta History Museum The Jakarta History Museum, also known as Fatahillah Museum or Batavia Museum, is located in the Old Town in a building constructed in 1710 as the Stadhuis, or City Hall, of Batavia. From 1945-1961 it was used as the governor’s office but these days it houses a collection of objects from the prehistory period of the city region, the founding of Jayakarta (Jakarta’s old name) in 1527, and the Dutch colonisation period from the 16th century until Indonesia’s Independence in 1945.

Dunia Fantasi (DUFAN) This fantasy world, better known as DUFAN, was inaugurated on August 29, 1985. It’s an entertainment venue, located in Ancol, comprised of several international-themed sections, including Indonesia, Asia, Africa, America, Europe, and Fantasi Hikayat (Legendary Fantasy) region featuring Ancient Greece and Ancient Egypt. Each has its own unique setting with plenty of funfair rides and the chance to take in the surrounding Ancol beach scenery and wildlife.

Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair Better known as INACRAFT, this fair had been held annually since 1999, bringing craftspeople and artisans

www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyletravel Clockwise from left: Mount Batur; Bali Kopi Luwak Coffee; Penglipuran; Rice Terraces Bali; Tanah Lot Temple; Pura Tirta Empul.

from across the archipelago to present their finest artworks. As well as a great place for a mooch around, it’s also popular with national and international traders.

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMMI) “Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park” (literally translated) is a culture-based recreational area located in East Jakarta. It has an area of about 250 acres. There are recreations of various aspects of daily life in Indonesia’s 26 (in 1975) provinces housed in separate themed pavilions.

Displays include, clothing, dances and historical traditions, all depicted impeccably. Apart from that, there is a lake with a miniature of the archipelago in the middle of it, cable cars, museums, Keong Emas Imax cinema, a theatre and other recreational facilities.

In December 2014 the World Peace Committee designated TMII as an International Civilisation Park and World Peace Theme Park.

Ayer Island Resort & Cottages Ayer Island is situated a mere 14 km off the shore of Ancol’s Marina Bay. It is known as the Pearl of The Thousand Islands with a diverse collection of flora, including various hundred-year-old trees.

With vast swathes of coconut trees, white sand beaches and a cluster of floating cottages, it’s a tropical paradise with significant historical value.

BALI Penglipuran Penglipuran Village is one of the traditional villages that are located in the Bangli Regency in Bali. The village is famous because its inhabitants have managed to preserve their traditional culture in their daily lives. The architecture of buildings and land working still follows the concept of Tri Hita Karana, the philosophy of Balinese society regarding the balance of relations between God, humans and their environment.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, better known as Monkey Forest Ubud, is a sanctuary or natural habitat of the Balinese long tailed monkey, macaca fascicularis. They are cheeky chappies, who will cheerfully steal your food if you don’t keep a close eye on them. And, importantly for Bali, where animal tourism does not always have the best welfare reputation, this is a chance to get up-close and personal in a truly wild setting with no tricks, rides or anything else to concern the ethical traveller.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Pura Tirta Empul Tirta Empul temple is a Hindu Balinese water temple located near the town of Tampaksiring. The temple compound includes a petirtaan or bathing structure, famous for its holy spring water, where Balinese Hindus go to for ritual purification.

Bali Kopi Luwak Coffee Kopi is the Indonesian word for coffee and Luwak is the local name of the Asian palm civet in Sumatra. Kopi Luwak is the coffee that has been digested by an Asian palm civet. The animal eats the coffee cherries, the cherries go through the digestive track and fermentation occurs, and then they pass through the intestines and are eventually pooped out. The coffee cherries are then picked out from poop, aka poop coffee. Please note, this industry has exploded in recent years due to the great taste of the coffee, so ensure you’re not visiting somewhere the animals are caged and force fed.

Tanah Lot Temple Historical Hindu temple and iconic pilgrimage site built on a dramatic rock formation in the sea which provides a breath-taking vista.

Mount Batur Mount Batur is an active volcano located at the centre of two concentric calderas (caldron-like craters formed when volcanos collapse in on themselves) north west of Mount Agung. The southeast side of the larger caldera contains a lake which gives rise to stunning scenery and great trekking opportunities.

Rice Terraces The best Bali rice terraces display outstanding landscapes. They’re among the must-sees for visitors to the island, and can give interesting insights into the local way of life. Rice paddies in Bali are part of the people’s heritage. The centuries-old traditional irrigation cooperative, ‘subak’, lives on. One of Bali’s top examples is Jatiluwih, which is recognised by UNESCO in its world cultural landscapes list.

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lifestylediscoverbahrain

PARADISE PLEASANT A trip to Hawar Islands is a convenient option for when you need a quick and low-cost change in scenery.

W

hen the going gets monotonous, it calls for a temporary check-out from a repetitive routine.

But when you have to take a flight out to get to anywhere else in the world, except to our immediate neighbour, you might have to think twice about it.

Fret not; the idyllic islands of Hawar are just a short boat ride away and offer a relaxing time-out from everyday life. This archipelago of 36 small islands, situated around 20km southeast of mainland Bahrain, spans approximately 52sq/km and constitutes more than seven per cent of the total land of the Kingdom. Hawar is considered to be the largest island after the mother island, Bahrain, and though there are 36 isles in the group, many of the smaller ones are simply spots of sand and shingle on bedrock.

The islands were first surveyed in 1820, when they were called the Warden’s Islands. The archipelago is recognised for its unique environment and habitat for endangered species.

And with good reason, as it is a haven for the region’s natural fauna. The islands lie on the migration path of about 300 types of birds, of which some are endangered species. It is home to one of the largest breeding colonies of Socotra Cormorants and part of the second largest herd of dugongs. It is also a breeding area for the endangered sooty falcon, or, as it is referred to in Bahrain, the Hawar falcon (Shriyas Hawar).

The clean sands of the land mass carry a fascinating history from centuries ago. In the late 1700s, a tribe known as Dawasir from Wadi (valley) Dawasir in Saudi Arabia came to Hawar and established villages on the coasts of the island. The largest north village consisted of about 20 stone houses and visitors can tour the archaeological remains of the abandoned hamlet.

Bahrain’s commitment to the preservation of the naturally beautiful atoll was formalised in 1995 with a royal decree to preserve and protect the islands and their marine surroundings as a wildlife sanctuary.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylediscoverbahrain

A choice of eco-friendly bus tours enables sightseers to witness wild animals such as gazelles, oryx, ibex and spiny-tailed lizards (thab) with trained guides who explain the history and archaeology of Hawar along the way.

A day trip to the islands costs a minimum of BD20 per person, inclusive of the two-way boat transport, lunch, and use of kayaks, bicycles, the pool and water slides. The boat departs from Durrat Marina at 8am, and returns from Hawar at 4pm.

Other activities available to visitors include a guided safari of the whole island to see its pristine coastlines, or seasonal options such as dugong watching, and bird-watching for various unique feathered friends. Thanks to this, a high number of photographers and ornithologists have visited Hawar from around the world.

The islands regularly host citizens of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, countries in Europe and Americans, who come specially to see the colonies of cormorants in their breeding seasons, and catch a precious glimpse of endangered falcons or witness the migration of a variety of birds in spring and autumn.

Visitors can enjoy environmentallysustainable water sports activities like snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters that lap against the shoreline. However, as the islands are eco-protected, no fishing tours or jet skiing is permitted. The action-packed mountain bike tour around the island is a popular attraction.

This year, three-wheel electric bikes will be available for adventurers to explore the area.

Visitors can stay overnight at the Hawar Beach Hotel, with a package which includes three meals. The hotel offers various room types including disabled accommodation.

Lunch and all activities within the hotel’s premises are included in the price for a day trip. In-house and day-trip guests are able to buy beverages from the hotel.

However, as this is a protected area, only authorised personnel from Hawar Beach Hotel, with permission from the authorities, are permitted to conduct tours and enable public access to the islands and their surroundings.

Private boats are allowed to dock at two ports www.bahrainthismonth.com

only; the hotel jetty and the chalet jetty, while other areas are restricted.

Needless to say, the waters around these exclusive islands are rich in marine flora and fauna. To boost the underwater ecosystem, around 170 artificial reef balls, some donated by the Rotary Club of Sulmaniya, the Bahrain Bayan School and Ibn Khuldoon School, have recently been lowered just off the coastline in the shape of a Flower of Life design. It is hoped that this will create a sanctuary for new oceanic life, as well as attract existing aquatic species from the surrounding waters. Fishing is prohibited so as to allow marine life to thrive in a vibrant underwater world, which will make the location an ideal snorkelling spot right off the beach.

Call 17 849-111.

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lifestyleoutandabout

CHILD’S PLAY

Summer is upon us, but there’s no need to languish at home just because you don’t want to get scorched. Bahrain offers some great options to keep the kids and the young-at-heart entertained in air-conditioned environs.

LASER TAG

PAINTBALL BAHRAIN

Paintball is a high adrenaline, fast-paced game where participants ‘tag’ each other with paintball projectiles shot at high speed. These are usually dye-filled gelatin capsules that burst upon impact. It’s said to be more mental than physical, since you have to outsmart opponents and not become intimidated by others. The first authorised paintball company in Bahrain is found in Seef and Sitra Malls and provides players with the latest equipment. A minimum of four and a maximum of 30 players can take part.

However, on weekends, a minimum of eight is required.

Participants need to be at least 10 years old.

Call 17 382-121.

This is another tag game played with guns that fire infrared beams which connect with the special sensitive vests worn by participants. And the game mechanics record how many times each player has effectively shot their opponents. At the end of a short time, that can actually feel like quite a while with all the running, hiding and sneaking up on your ‘enemies’, a winning team is declared, along with the participant that hit the most targets. Laser tag can be a great way to expel some energy in kids, and grown-ups as well. It is an exhilarating experience in a safe and cool environment.

Islanders can partake in laser tag at Ozone Entertainment Centre located at Sitra Mall. The venue also offers bowling, billiards and gaming consoles, and is a popular place to host kids’ birthday parties.

Call 17 125-162 / 17 749-499.

WAHOOO!

BAHRAIN SCIENCE CENTRE

You do not have to be a science geek to have an interesting time at the Bahrain Science Centre located on the Isa Town road. This venue is a venture of a government authority to promote the culture of science and technology in the country by engaging young people and their families in activities that they can ‘learn by doing’. The centre is open from 9am-1pm and then again from 4pm-8pm on all days except Fridays. A tour of the place encourages young minds to imagine, share their thoughts and be inspired.

Call 17 686-466 or follow @mys_yc_bsc on Instagram 72 June 2019

e on amazing sh-packed tim To have a spla any other d rides, and m water slides an at City Centre ad to Wahooo! , attractions, he radise-themed sub-tropical pa its of Bahrain. This st the fir waterpark is indoor-outdoor set over a is d an iddle East kind in the M teeing hours 00sq/m, guaran whopping 15,0 ti-level fortress e family. A mul , of joy for all th n for little ones r pool offer fu e th in e and the toddle tim gala ds can have a while older ki zy River. The La e th in lounge wave pool or Rider and dewinder, Flow Mat Racer, Si spectacular e some of the d Black Hole ar ers, young an r to thrill seek rides that cate re ratu ols are tempe old. All the po perience all ex nt sa a plea controlled for ired to bring uests are requ year round. G or buy them ar and towels their swim ge te retail store. from the onsi 0.

Call 17 173-00

ARTZANIA

Located in Ramli Mall, boys and girls from three to 14 years can enjoy unique activities under safe supervision in an atmosphere where children are encouraged to be imaginative and creative. The colours, furniture and the decoration have been custom-made according to international standards for children’s comfort and safety. Besides weekly events, the centre provides a walk-in service where parents can drop off their kids at Artzania to have peace of mind shopping while the kids are engaged in fun and learning. It costs BD3 per hour or BD5 for two hours, including all art materials.

Call 17 640-663. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

US Embassy Annual Youth Iftar

US Ambassador, HE Justin Siberell and his wife hosted an Iftar for Bahraini youths to celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan and the strong friendship between the US and Bahrain. The Ambassador recognised a number of the US Embassy exchange programme participants and participants in the Crown Prince Scholarship programme who will be studying in the United States

Inauguration of Lulu Hypermarket’s 171st Store Under the patronage of HE Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, Lulu Group International celebrated the inauguration of its 171st store

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

To view more images, scan the QR code

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bystander

Trib Fest Bahrain Trib Fest Bahrain was held at Bahrain Rugby Football Club. The 12-hour long festival was made up of different tribute acts brought in specially for their entertainment value

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www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

bystander

Rock Music Brunch

Wembley Sports Bar held its ‘Empty Our Fridges’ Rock Music Party Brunch featuring top tunes with RULE 11 – a rock music tribute of the very best

To view more images, scan the QR code

C MULCHAND & C KUMAR WEDDING

Rajiv Bhatia and Sanjana Bhatia’s wedding celebration took place at the ART Rotana Hotel, honoured by the presence of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Salman Al Khalifa, and other esteemed dignitaries

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

June 2019 75

bystander

Giggles Season 3

Amit Tandon, a popular comedian known as ‘The Married Guy’, brought his laughter to Bahrain with his show held at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, Seef

Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Diplomat Iftar The Spa held a Ramadan Iftar event

G4S Employee Awards Ceremony G4S celebrated its Annual Employee Awards Ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain

76 June 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

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bystander OTHER EVENTS

Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Group held a Ramadan Media Ghabga

Al Haddad Motors held a press conference at its showroom in Tubli

A farewell lunch for Mandy Keizo was held at Al Areen Palace & Spa

Syed Afandi celebrated his wedding anniversary at ART Rotana Hotel & Resort Participating Marriott International properties in Bahrain handed out over 170 Iftar packs to cab drivers as part of its ‘Iftar for Cabs’ initiative

Carrefour partnered with The Bahrain Mall to distribute a total of 300 food hampers to several charitable organisations

Saar Mall held a press meet for its Traditional Auction event

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2018 77

lifestyleadvertisersindex Home & Furnishing

Others

Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

AMA International School . . . . . . . . . . 3

Hotels & Serviced Residences

G4S Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 21

Saar Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

Ramada Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19, 25

AMA International University . . . . . . . 4 Joz Salon & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Restaurants & Cafés

Swiss-Belresidences Juffair . . . . . . . 35

Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

The Arch Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . 51

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . 6

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BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets

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● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from Red House Marketing, 17 813-777 or email: bystander@redhousemarketing.com.

78 June 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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‫‪EID MUBARAK‬‬ ‫ﻣﻬﺮﺟﺎن‬

‫ﻣﻬﺮﺟﺎن‬

‫ﺛﺎﻧﻲ وﺛﺎﻟﺚ أﻳﺎم ﻋﻴﺪ اﻟﻔﻄﺮ‬ ‫‪FESTIVAL OF THE SECOND & THIRD‬‬ ‫‪DAYS OF EID AL-FITR‬‬

‫‪ 05:00pm‬ﻣـﺴﺎء ‬ ‫ﻣﺠﻤﻊ ﺳﺎر ‪Saar Mall‬‬