Bahrain This Month - May 2018

DOWNTIME | TRAVEL | MOTORING

May 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 5

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

Ramadan Kareem!

The Best Iftars and Ghabgas

INTERVIEWS Exclusive!

Sameer Nass

New BCCI Chairman

RHM

HAPPENINGS

Partners with City & Guilds

Heritage Festival Cinco de Mayo DJ Markus Schulz Live Women Power Summit

Ian Fisher

THE BIG FISH Funny Man

WADDAH SWAR

www.bahrainthismonth.com Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

ICONIC RAMADAN EXPERIENCES

Fill your Ramadan evenings with conversation, good company and flavoursome food at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. We have created ambiances to make your Iftar and Ghabga gatherings unique times to remember. Discover our shisha lounge and live entertainment. Our Ramadan Kids Club ensures guests of all ages feel extra special.

Reserve your Ramadan experience.

(973) 1711 5500 fourseasons.com/bahrain

WE’RE ON OUR WAY! Keep loafing around.

We’ve got you covered with just a click! n o w d e l i v e r i n g t h r o u g h c a r r i ag e .

Issue 249

Contents May 2018 RAMADAN KAREEM! HAPPENINGS Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of May 2018: 19

19

A Heritage Story

The 26th edition of the annual Bahrain Heritage Festival returns.

20

Dance Divas

A workshop on Tribal Fusion Belly Dance style.

22

Is It a Bird?

A fun annual contest at the British Club.

24 Breakfast

of Champions

The fourth edition of the annual Ladies Charity Breakfast.

22

26 Super

26

Season Closer

Coral Bay features DJ Markus Schulz live.

28 100

Bahrain Stories

A book launch at Words Bookstore Café.

INTERVIEWS 31

All Change at the Chamber Exclusive with newly elected BCCI chairman Sameer Nass.

32

36

32

An Educational Partnership City & Guilds’ latest collaboration.

34

The Big Fish

Ian Fisher on Radio Bahrain and his new role in teaching.

36

The Funniest Arab

Comedian and actor Waddah Swar tickles

43

46 Bystander This issue’s Bystander pages captured major happenings on the island such as the Formula One action at BIC, the US Embassy’s Independence Day and the British Embassy’s Queen’s Birthday celebrations. Our snappers were also seen at various other gatherings, including festivals, launches and parties. See if you made the cut!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

our funny bone.

38

Big Is Beautiful

BTM spoke with the men responsible for bringing Wyndham Garden to Bahrain.

Motoring 43

My Life in Cars

Dick Potter shares his passion for motors.

46-47 Motoring

Bites

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

May 2018 3

Issue 249

Contents May 2018 Downtime 50-51 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 52 53 Computer

58

54

Music: Top tunes

Games: The hot games of the month

Websites: The coolest sites on the web 55 56

Apps: Essential apps

Movies: New releases

FEATURE Ramadan Happenings 58-84

BTM round-ups of best Iftar and Ghabga offerings during The Holy Month.

Dining 86

86

72

A Verdant Wonder

A review of the stunning Gallery 21 restaurant in Adliya.

88

Food at Your Fingertips

Talabat on making a positive difference to people’s lives.

89

Hidden Gems in Bahrain 90-91

Table Hopping

Dining gossip from around the island.

Showcase 92

What’s New: Must-have products

93-96 Marketplace: Latest products and services 97

78

98

Business Bites

Travel 98-99

A Serene Connection

Regulars 102 Tarotscope 103

AD Index

104 WIN

92

56

50

92

www.bahrainthismonth.com

WIN

May 2018 5

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w w w. m i a m b a h r a i n . c o m

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month May 2018

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

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

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: info@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2014 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

•

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

May sees the beginning of The Holy Month and, as always, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our readers a heartfelt Ramadan Kareem.

A period of reflection and fasting, this special time offers the ideal opportunity for meeting with friends to break the fast and for seeking ways to give back to the community. Even for those who are not fasting, Ramadan, with its strong local traditions, is the ideal time to try out delicious dishes that are not available at other times of the year. Many of the island’s hotels erect elaborate tents and the food and beverage sector goes out of its way to put on a show with sumptuous Iftars, Ghabgas and Suhoors in abundance. This month’s special feature gives a comprehensive round-up of what’s on offer at some of the Kingdom’s favourite venues.

And, while things will certainly become a little quieter during Ramadan, there are still plenty of events in the run-up including the annual Heritage Festival, which gives the chance to connect with traditional Bahraini craftspeople and performers, and several seasonclosing parties. You can find all the details in our Happenings section.

I am particularly excited about our lead interview this month, for which I visited the home of the new chairman of Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sameer Nass. In an exclusive chat, he reveals the campaign strategy that brought him to victors and shares his plans for the future. You can see a video of our meeting online at www. bahrainthismonth.com.

We also met with top management at the opening of the new Wyndham Garden Hotel, former radio host Ian Fisher and funny man Waddah Swar, who’s exposing the world to Arabic humour.

And unusually, I’m actually the subject of one of this month’s interviews, along with Tony Degazon, as we open up about the new partnership which will see Red House subsidiary SOS representing training giant City & Guilds in Bahrain.

As always, we have our regular round-up of gadgets, apps, websites and more as well as music, film and food reviews and news from the worlds of business and motoring – which is updated throughout the month on our website.

Whatever you’re up to this month, check out our pages for ‘Your Guide to a Great Way of Life’ and, once again, Ramadan Kareem.

COVER Cover Picture:

Ramadan Kareem!

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

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

DOWNTIME | TRAVEL | MOTORING

May 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 5

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

Ramadan Kareem!

The Best Iftars and Ghabgas

Connect with Bahrain This Month:

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

INTERVIEWS Exclusive!

Sameer Nass

New BCCI Chairman

RHM

HAPPENINGS

Partners with City & Guilds

Heritage Festival Cinco de Mayo DJ Markus Schulz Live Women Power Summit

Ian Fisher

THE BIG FISH Funny Man

WADDAH SWAR

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www.bahrainthismonth.com Arts

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Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

May 2018 7

bystander

HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa

David & MP Raghu

Formula 1 2018 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix The Formula 1 2018 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix took place at the Bahrain International Circuit and was attended by many prominent figures, celebrities, dignitaries and fans of the popular motorsport. HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, presented trophies to the top three winners, Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari), Valtteri Bottas (Mercedes), and Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes), at the podium ceremony. Also present at the podium were Hisham Al Jowder, Youth and Sports Affairs Minister, Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa Al Khalifa Bahrain Motor Federation President, and Kresimir Kucko, Gulf Air CEO.

Ahmed, Shaikh Salman & Mo

Winners at the podium Shaikh Rashid & Shaikh Salman

Shaikh Nader & Shaikh Ali

Shaikh Abdulla, Khalid & Shaikh Abdulla

Majid Al Zayani

HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Shaikh Nasser & Madan

Shaikha Marwa & Ines

8 May 2018

Barbara & Ingo

Fatima & Abdulhani

Shaikh Faisal & Abdulrahman

Yasmin, Deema, Sophia & Imran

Geraldine & Jessica

Steve & Jo

Arif Rahimi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

UNMATCHED RAMADAN EXPERIENCE Embrace Ramadan traditions this season by sharing memories with family and friends at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. A promising and unmatched Ramadan experience awaits starting with a culinary journey of aromatic menus, enjoyed under our luxurious new Masaya Ramadan tent. Call (+973) 1758 6499 or visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain.

Iftar at BHD 25++. Ghabgha at BHD 27++. Pergolas with maximum of 8 guests. Private dining of selected hot buffet items inclusive of 3 complimentary Shishas at BHD 300++. Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 10% government levy. Reservations are required.

No refund or credit for unused portion. Void where prohibited. Š2018 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

bystander

HE Justin Siberell & Arnavaz

Shaikh Khalifa

Laura & VADM John C Aquilino

HE Abdullah bin Rashid Al-Midilwi

USA 242nd Independence Day Celebration HE Justin Siberell, US Ambassador, hosted the 242nd anniversary of the independence of the USA at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Ministers and senior government officials, diplomats, business people, Shura Council members, members of Council of Representatives, academics, artists, and journalists attended the ceremony.

The cake-cutting ceremony

Yousif & Shaikh Hisham

Sophie, Pat & HE Simon Martin

HE Justin Siberell & Shaikh Salman

Samira & Habib

Perwin, HE Alfred Simms-Protz & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

Shaikh Khalid & Abdul Hussain Dawani

Maisa, HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir, HE Dr Milad Nammour & Rushdi

10 May 2018

Laura & HE Domenico Bellato

HE Dr A S U Mendis

Waleed Kanoo, Sonia & Waleed Al Rayes

HE Ahmed Rashid Khatabi & HE Mohammed bin Youssef

Faten & Rima

HE KM Mominur Rahman

Fatema & Hana

Jassim & Amin

Martin & Babette

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bystander

HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman Al Khalifa

Queen’s Birthday

Dan

HE Simon Martin, UK Ambassador, hosted a garden reception to celebrate Queen Elizabeth the Second’s birthday party. Top officials, ambassadors and many distinguished guests attended to join the celebration.

The cake-cutting ceremony Araike & HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo

HE Simon Martin, Sophie, Mockbul & Sreeda

Boris & Manuela

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof, Wani, HE Alfonso A Ver & Karan

Alistair & Ali

Mr and Mrs Mohammed Tawash

12 May 2018

HE Dr A S U Mendis & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

Marina, Lachlan, George, Agnes & Sarah

HE Alfred Simms-Protz, HE Mohammed bin Youssef & Amin

HE Rami Wriekat & HE Dr Milad Nammour

Julia, Pat & Janeann

Chris

Babette & Martin

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bystander

HE Alok Kumar Sinha & Mockbul

Bangladesh Independence & National Day HE KM Mominur Rahman, Bangladeshi Ambassador, hosted a reception to commemorate the 47th anniversary of the Independence & National Day of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh at the The Diplomat Radisson BLU Hotel, Residence & Spa. The cake-cutting ceremony

Radia, Mehdi & Shanjida

Nabeel Ajoor, HE Dr A S U Mendis, Arun, Marita & HE Alfonso A Ver

Asma, Suraiya, Farida & Dr Shareeja

Samrina, Jameela & Tahera

Mohsin, Emran, Taj & Osman

14 May 2018

Fuad & Farida

HE Nor Huda

Sameer Abdulla Nass, Nasser Al Arayedh & Maram

Dr Mazin& Dr M Omar

Florin

Anne, Lamees, Shanjida & Nahid

Dr Abir, Dr Rashid & Dr Farsia

Mosiur & Dr Farsana

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Darwish Al Mannai, Rashid & Jalil Al Ansari

Mark

Samar, Nasser Al Arayadh, Yousif Salahuddin & Nabeel Ajoor

Mehdi

German Breakfast & Catalog Show The German-Saudi Arabian Liaison Office for Economic Affairs held a German Breakfast & Catalog Show 2018 at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.

To view more images, scan the QR code

HE Alfred Simms-Protz & Volker

Marwan Khonji, Mohammed Kooheji & Yousif Khonji

Michael

Dr Khalid

Thomas

Perwin, HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir, HE Alfred Simms-Protz, Rihab & Mary

Ingo

Waleed Al Rayes

Poolside Buffet Dinner HE Alfred Simms-Protz, German Ambassador, and wife, Perwin, hosted a poolside buffet dinner at their residence.

Perwin & HE Alfred Simms-Protz Manfred, Iris, Sarina & Sigi

Nelly, George & Daniela

16 May 2018

HE Kemal Demirciler & Jale

Amin, HE Mohammed bin Youssef & HE Hideki Ito

Juliette & Debbie

Mamta & Perwin

www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertorial

Pictures courtesy of Nespresso partner TechnoServe

WOMEN IN COFFEE

Nespresso’s commitment to gender equality in coffee sourcing.

Advancing gender equality is a key driver for coffee sustainability and can have a significant impact on coffee quality and productivity.

Strengthening the role of women farmers would increase economic growth, improve social well-being, ensure sustainable development and reduce poverty among millions of people.

This new research by Nespresso examines the barriers to strengthening the role of women in coffee farming and identifies opportunities to increase the involvement of women – representing huge potential benefits for communities across coffee-growing regions.

Empowering women to play a more direct role in the management of smallholder farms could have a significant impact on the economic and social development of millions of people.

Research by the UN shows that when women work, economies grow faster and communities directly benefit, as women tend to invest more of their earned income into their family’s health, nutrition and education.

However, in many countries women are lacking equal access to training and support, lessening their potential to play a significant role in coffee production. This is often due to men owning most of the land as well as women’s additional responsibilities such as child care and domestic duties.

One of the objectives of Nespresso’s AAA Sustainable Quality programme – which encourages farmers to learn sustainable quality www.bahrainthismonth.com

practices – is to ensure women farmers have access to this critical knowledge and training.

Research has shown that many farmers prefer being trained by women agronomists, so Nespresso has started tailoring recruitment processes to attract more women to those positions. Already, women represent 31 per cent of the 441 agronomists working with coffee farmers worldwide through the programme, compared to an estimated 15 per cent global average.

Through a new study that aimed to measure the gender gap in coffee farming, Nespresso has developed a field-tested gender analysis tool that supplier field teams can use to get a deeper understanding of the gaps and opportunities to strengthen the impact on women coffee farmers’ participation, learning and economic empowerment. The tool collects a wide set of data on farmers, including: education and literacy levels, access to transport, views on female trainers as well as comparing how husbands and wives view their roles in coffee farming.

Based on findings from the analysis, Nespresso is implementing new initiatives that include gender sensitisation training and new recruitment processes for agronomists across different local communities.

All members of the AAA programme, including more than 400 agronomists as well as farmers and community and cooperative leaders, will receive new gender sensitisation training aimed at appreciating the benefits of increased gender equity and the methods of

achieving it. This training will be followed up with regular refreshers.

Additionally, the analysis found many women stated a preference for female trainers. The AAA programme will work closely with local communities to tailor recruitment initiatives for female agronomists and the roll-out of a revised sexual harassment policy will ensure a safe work environment for women.

The company is investing more than USD225,000 on the field programmes this year.

Daniel Weston, Nespresso head of sustainability says: ‘‘Gender equality is a critical part of coffee sustainability and something that is an integral part of our AAA programme. We know there is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach for the 70,000 coffee farmers of the programme, so we have been working with our partners to find the most appropriate ways to increase the number of female farmers within our programme. For example, to address female farmers not feeling qualified to apply for an agronomist role, we have advertised a several-day training course instead of a job offer and found more females were inclined to participate. We are proud to be leading the way in creating initiatives that encourage more women to participate in coffee farming.’’

Nespresso Coffee, Machines and Accessories are available at Nespresso Boutique, Level 1, Bahrain City Centre, Nespresso Booth, Gate 5 Seef Mall, Customer Care — 80 001-999 and online at www.buynespresso.com/bh May 2018 17

bystander

Katarina & Sarina

David & Rose

Marina & Stewart

American Fun Day BBQ

The American Chamber of Commerce held its first American Fun Day BBQ at the Royal Golf Club.

HE Justin Siberell & Arnavaz

Elsa, Manu, Stella & Audrey

Yasmine, Elena & Shishi

Adriana, Delano & Mary

Noor, Lina & Yaser

Vijith & Aditi

Dr Shaikh Mohamed Bin Abdulla Al Khalifa

Hiba

Natasha & Yannis

New AMH Clinic Opening The American Mission Hospital opened its Riffa clinic opposite The Walk. The official opening ceremony was inaugurated by Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, president of Bahrain Supreme Council of Health. Also in attendance were HE Justin Siberell, US Ambassador, and other distinguished guests.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Delano, Dr Salman Al Ghatam, Khaled Saffy & Julia

18 May 2018

Kumar, Ankush & Lokesh

Dr Babu, Dr Benroy & Dr George Varghese

Anil & Raymond

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

M AY 2 0 1 8 - H A P P E N I N G S A HERITAGE STORY BAHRAIN HERITAGE FESTIVAL

ONGOING TILL MAY 5

UNMISTAKABLE STYLE Arad Fort

Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the annual Bahrain Heritage Festival’s 26th edition brings the island’s unique culture to the forefront and showcases the variety and diversity of local heritage. The festival consists of a variety of workshops, food vendors, craftspeople and traditional musical performances. It also offers a chance to see some of the island’s finest crafters at work – basket weaving and creating pottery and handicrafts. Visitors, local and international, are dazzled every year with exhibits relating to Bahrain’s traditions and culture and the distinctiveness of the country’s music and folk-dance. A balanced mixture of contemporary and traditional products is on offer at the souq which is surrounded by Bahraini cafés and offers the visitor a chance to experience flavours of the Kingdom.

Daily 5pm-9.30pm.

ANDALOUSIE EXHIBITION

Albareh Art Gallery

The Adliya gallery welcomes a solo exhibition by Sudanese-born Mohammed Omar Khalil, one of the Arab world’s leading artists.

Andalousie is made up of 12 mixed media works on canvas in a style that is unmistakably Omar Khalil’s. The colours are bright, the textures busy and the collaged photos, at times smothered in paint, break through the abstraction with codes for the viewer to decipher.

As the title suggests, Andalousie is inspired by the Spanish region of the same name. An interest in the Islamic history of Spain is one shared by many Arabs, and Omar Khalil is no exception. In 2009, he accepted an invitation from Libyan art collector Adbulmagid Breish to travel with him to Andalousie along with fellow artists Dia Azzawi and Ibrahim El Salahi. The objective was to explore the region and to immerse themselves in the culture as inspiration for producing art.

Deeply impacted by the trip, he spent an intense four months in his studio producing the 12 paintings.

Call 17 567-171.

Also exhibited at Albareh will be works from some of Omar Khalil’s previous collections, most notably Suakin.

ALL THAT JAZZ MAY 2

ONGOING TILL MAY 10

JAZZ CONCERT

Celebrate International Jazz Day with a fantastic concert at La Fontaine. The event, which is part of the Gulf Jazz Festival, will feature the great Polish vocalist, Ida Zalewska, with pianist Kuba Pluzek, presenting a special programme including known standards from legend Billie Holiday.

The concert is priced at BD20+. Concert and dinner costs BD30+.

Concert starts 7pm.

Call 17 230-123 or email info@lafontaineartcentre.net www.bahrainthismonth.com

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

Saturday-Thursday, 9.30am-2pm and 4pm-8pm.

Call 17 717-707 or 39 240-914.

TROPICAL SPLASH MAY 3

ROOFTOP PARTY

Meisei

Head to Meisei where the Tropical Splash rooftop party returns for the season closer.

Back by popular demand, DJ Jackson will be performing alongside DJ Salime to keep you dancing into the early hours. With a dress code of Hawaiian shirts, garlands and smart board shorts, it sounds like a fun night.

Dining from 7pm, entertainment starts 9pm.

Call 17 007-770.

19 May 2017

happenings

CATWALK BEATS FASHIONISTA DANCE PERFORMANCE

MAY 4

Cultural Hall

This year’s annual show from Victoria Dance takes fashion as its theme to come up with a performance featuring all things mod. From Dedicated Follower of Fashion to Blue Suede Shoes the organisers have gone all out to find fashion-themed music and choreograph showcase dance pieces around them. With 150 dancers from three years upwards, including some enthusiastic mums, all taking to the stage for this bumper performance, this promises to be a real fun, feelgood event.

Tickets priced BD8 for adults, BD5 for five to 15s, under-fives go free.

Performance 3pm.

Call 17 004-382 or 39 876-216.

DANCE DIVAS MAY 3

TRIBAL FUSION BELLY DANCE WORKSHOP

7th Wave Performing Arts School

In this workshop, with Yana Kremeva, students will learn the fundamentals of this unique Tribal Fusion Belly Dance style. It is a modern Western form of belly dance which was created by fusing American tribal style belly dance and American cabaret belly dance. It frequently incorporates elements from popping, hip-hop, Egyptian or cabaret belly dance, as well as movement principles from traditional forms such as flamenco, kathak, odissi and other folkloric and classical dance styles.

The first part of class is devoted to allocation movements on the skeleton while the second is devoted to the smooth elements and the last section deals with choreography. The class costs BD50 and spaces are limited.

Time 5pm-8pm.

Call 38 071-777.

GIGGLE FEST MAY 4

LAUGH OUT LOUD

GOING UNDERGROUND Elite Resort & Spa

Season Four of the regular comedy nights organised by Sphere Advertising & Events brings comics Kunal Kamra and Rahul Subramanian to the stage. Be ready for a bit of controversy from Kunal Kamra, whose standup act tackles issues such as patriotism and the government in today’s India – he has even been asked to move out of his home due to his involvement in political issues, so he probably has a lot to say! Rahul Subramanian is also a controversial figure, having received threats of violence from DJs who didn’t like his jokes! They’re followed by Bollywood tunes with DJ Nirmal for a great all-round night.

MAY 4

BAHRAIN UNDERGROUND MUSIC MOVEMENT SECOND ANNIVERSARY

Txoko

Tickets from BD8.

Join the BUMM guys for a unique experience as the group celebrates its second anniversary in style, featuring five top-notch DJs at Txoko lounge, located on the 36th floor of The Domain Hotel and Spa. On the bill are DJs Ramy, from Lebanon, Mysterioo Arif and Yofo, both from Bahrain, Nacim, from Algeria, and DJ Eve, from Russia.

Entry is free for couples and mixed groups.

Comedy show 6pm. Music 9pm.

From 8pm.

Call 37 792-969 or 37 772-969.

20 May 2018

When? Ongoing till May 5 Event? Exhibition, Impeccable Flaws Venue? Albareh Art Gallery An exhibition of jewellery pieces by Nasim Javid, which the Iranian creator terms “wearable art”.

Saturday to Thursday, 9.30am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm.

Call 17 717-707.

When? Ongoing till May 8 Event? Art Exhibition, Life Journey Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Fereshte Shishine shows a range of work with sharp light and tremendous attention to detail.

Time 11am-11pm.

Call 17 230-123.

When? Ongoing till May 10 Event? ‘5alid called and he’s gonna call again :) Venue? Gallery 21 A solo exhibition by artist Aysha Al Moayyed in the surroundings of this dining and entertainment space.

Time 7am-2am.

Call 17 711-600.

When? Ongoing till May 16 Event? Exhibition, Warlukurlangu Artists Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art A collaboration with the famous Warlukurlangu Artists of Yuendumu to show their famous acrylic paintings and limitededition prints.

Time 11am-11pm.

Call 17 230-123.

When? Ongoing till May 27 Event? Scenamadre, Theatre Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Theatre A display curated by the Accademia Albertina di Bella Arti in Torino, Italy, featuring a collection of models that illustrate the history of theatre design.

Time 8am-8pm.

Call 17 298-777.

Call 37 777-845. www.bahrainthismonth.com

A

RAMADAN BY THE SE

with h an evening imbued nth of Ramadan wit ’s most treasured, Welcome the Holy Mo rain Bah in s ma aro hanting Zallaq. delightful fare and enc adan tent, Layali Al award-winning Ram indulge lit Arabian Sea and t by the beautifully tering glit our er Enjoy your Iftar righ und hes dis n of traditional in a delicious selectio gical surprises. stars ceiling with ma person Iftar BD19.500++ per n Juices & Water Inclusive Of Ramada 8:30pm) urs (Approximately From Sunset For 2 Ho y) per person (food onl Ghabga BD 19.500++ m 30a 01: – m Weekdays: 10:00p – 02:00am Weekends: 10:00pm

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happenings

IS IT A BIRD? MAY 4

DESI DELIGHT

BIRDMAN COMPETITION

British Club

DESIBEL BOLLYWOOD DANCE MASTI

MAY 4

Wyndham Garden Rooftop Lounge

When? May 2-6 Event? Whispers Pop-up Shop Venue? Words Bookstore Café The Whisper brand, a collection of artwork, jewellery and jalabiyas, encapsulates the designer’s signature style of work: a unique mix of iconic designs in a vibrant colour palette that fuse the lustre of the Levant with the glamour of the Gulf. A portion of sales proceeds is being donated in aid of the Syrian refugee crisis Daily 10am-6pm.

Call 17 690-790.

Bahrain’s favourite Desi party brand, Desibel, is bringing much-loved DJ Shadow Dubai for an evening of the latest Bollywood and Punjabi chart-busters remixed with house, tribal and electronic influences.

This fun, annual contest sees competitors dressed as everything from aeroplanes to superheroes, launching themselves from a platform in an attempt to ‘fly’ (usually paddle or swim) the length of the venue’s pool. There are prizes on offer and the event raises cash for the RIA Centre for kids with special needs. Non-members are welcome to take part, or just turn up to watch. The club’s entry fee is BD2.

Competition time 2pm.

Call 17 728-245.

MEXICAN CELEBRATION MAY 4-5

CINCO DE MAYO

Cavallo Club

DJ Shadow Dubai is a multi-award-winning superstar Bollywood DJ; he has officially produced for Sean Paul, Badshah, Bohemia and other notables. He was previously named Best Asian DJ in the Masala Awards and Ahlan and is regularly ranked in the World Top DJs listing.

Over the last couple of years, DJ Shadow Dubai has performed to crowds of thousands at more than 500 shows around the world. He has also recently featured in the soundtracks of Bollywood movies, including Aashiqui 2 and Zid and has performed for the likes of Shahrukh Khan, Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Kajol, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and more. Pre-sale tickets are priced BD10 for couples, BD7 for men and BD5 for ladies. On the door tickets are BD15 for couples, BD10 for men and BD5 for ladies.

Doors open 9pm.

Call 36 769-292, 36 378-377 or +966 53 944-4781.

TOP GIRLS MAY 6-7

Dubai-based Colombian DJ Kio, from Bogota, is travelling to the island for one night to celebrate the famous festival, on May 4, with a playlist including the best Latin beats, hip-hop, R&B and more.

As a young DJ, Kio landed a contract with one of Colombia’s premier record companies and worked alongside the best in the industry. He has toured the US, Peru, Ecuador, the UAE, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Panama, France, Venezuela, Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, Turkey, Oman and Sri Lanka, and is looking forward to putting on a show for us here in Bahrain.

On May 5, Cavallo presents DJ Essie representing Spain.

This popular female spinner is supported by DJ Peekaboo and promises a great fun night to remember.

Tickets: May 4: BD5 for ladies, BD10 for men; May 5: ladies free, BD5 for men.

Doors open daily 6pm-2am.

Call 17 811-811.

22 May 2018

WOMEN POWER SUMMIT

Shaikh Isa Cultural Centre

When? May 3 Event? Indian Club May Queen Contest Venue? Indian Club Final of the annual contest in which young women vie for prizes and the audience is treated to a great evening’s entertainment.

Time 8pm.

Call 17 253-157.

When? May 4 Event? Irish After Brunch Party Venue? JJ’s Join the Paddyman for an afterbrunch party of fun and frolics, supported by DJ Aaron Wolf.

From 5pm.

Call 33 843-005.

When? May 5 Event? Words Aloud, Family Open Mic Venue? Words Bookstore Café Calling all poets, musicians, storytellers, performers of all ages — children, teens, young adults, old adults. Head to Words and share your talents; inspire each other to be creative.

No experience needed, just enthusiasm.

Time 4pm-6pm.

Call 17 690-790.

The Women Power Summit celebrates the doers and the doing — a source of inspiration and support that connects and empowers women around the world, helping them realise their potential and reach new heights. Fifty woman leaders will be featuring in keynote conversations, panel discussions, and one-on-one interviews to share their personal experiences in different industries. For two days the summit will bring together 500 attendees to share their wins, losses, life lessons and experiences. They will meet and network with other talented, like-minded women while developing tips and tricks from some of the best minds of our time. They will get access to a highly curated, impactful programme of panels, workshops, mentor sessions and speed networking, as well as delicious food, pop-up shops, photo booths and more.

When? May 5 Event? Sabado with Salsabor Venue? Meisei Special guest dancer Magda Liuzza will be gracing the rooftop! Enjoy a range of Latin vibes with Salsabor teaching a Casino Class from 8pm-9pm.

Call 17 007-770.

From 8am both days.

Call 17 536-092. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ramadan Kareem Experience the taste of tradition this Ramadan at Awali Ballroom.

Try local, Middle Eastern & International cuisine at our iftar buffet served daily from sunset to 8:30 PM throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Iftar buffet adult BHD 16.000++ weekdays BHD 18.000++ weekends

Iftar buffet children BHD 8.500++, ages 4 to 12 FREE, under 4 years old

Ghabga buffet will be served from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM at Al Safir Restaurant for BHD 12.900++ Call +973 17533533 or book online at www.sheratonbahrain.com /sheratonbahrain

happenings BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS MAY 10

LADIES CHARITY BREAKFAST

BOLLYWOOD ON THE BEACH Ramee Grand Hotel

Now in its fourth year, this annual event gives women the chance to get together for great food and networking at the same time as raising cash for good causes. This year’s theme is fashion and there will be a catwalk show as well as a mini bazaar with 30 vendors selling everything from clothing to accessories and jewellery. There’ll also be some great raffle prizes and the keynote speech comes from UN resident coordinator Amin El Sharkawi. Tickets are priced at BD15 in advance or BD20 at the door. Cash raised from ticket sales and raffles goes to support the St Christopher’s School guards, while sponsorship funding goes towards local children’s charities.

MAY 10

BOLLYWOOD BEACH PARTY

Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you are taken on an exotic trip to traditional India with a Bollywoodthemed beach party. A fascinating and fashionable night awaits, with entertainment, music and fun. Tickets are priced BD25 for members and BD35 for non-members, which includes three hours of selected beverages and an open buffet by Cantina Kahlo, Primavera, Thai Lounge, Nirvana and more.

Time 8pm-1am.

Call 17 586-499.

DESIGNER SALE

BSPCA Thrift Shop

Time 9am-1pm.

WALK FOR A CAUSE 5KM CHARITY WALK

Call 17 690-790.

When? May 6 Event? Balkan Night Venue? LNT Gastro Pub Get ready for an evening of great music and mayhem with this crown from the former Yugoslavia and friends.

Time 8.30pm.

When? May 7 Event? Bahrain British Business Forum Lunch Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Lunch with guest of honour Shaikh Fahad bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, advisor to HH Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, on the subject Bahrain and Britain: an enduring partnership.

Time, registration at noon.

Call 17 813-488.

Call 39 445-156 or 39 461-919.

MAY 12

The venue’s first ever preowned designer items sale offering high-end, second hand handbags, shoes and more being sold for charity to support children with autism at the Alia Center for Early Intervention.

An extension of the charity’s ever-popular annual vintage designer sale, all items sold are in good to excellent condition at a fraction of boutique prices and all proceeds go to the centre.

Time 10am-6pm.

Call 17 246-777.

BARGAINS GALORE MAY 12

When? May 6-7 Event? Alia Vintage Charity Sale Venue? Words Bookstore Café

Nurana Island

When? May 8 Event? Live Jam Venue? 7th Wave Performing Arts School Get ready for summer with the amazing Designer Sale at the BSPCA Thrift Shop. As always there are some crazy bargains to be had on new and preloved clothing from designers such as Just Cavalli, Sacoor, Karen Millen, Ted Baker, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Banana Republic, Juicy Couture, Monsoon, Oasis, Zara and Wallis. All earnings will go towards the care and feeding of animals at the Animal Welfare Centre (AWC) and the free Catch, Neuter and Return (CNR) scheme for dogs and cats.

Organisers have promised crowd control which means: Get a dose of early morning exercise with the 4am start of this charity walk, organised by Darkness Into Light, which is raising funds and awareness for Pieta House, an Irish centre which offers free counselling for people who suffer from depression and may experience suicidal thoughts or self-harming. Yes, it’s an early start, but you’ll be walking towards the light. It costs BD10 to take part and everyone gets a T-shirt. Socialised, vaccinated dogs are welcome.

Time 4am.

Call 34 050-466 or visit www.facebook.com/ darknessintolightbarhain1/ 24 May 2018

• No queue jumping! Doors will open at 1pm and not

All musicians, dancers, poets, and whoever wants to perform is invited to head down for a jam session. Non-musicians are also welcome, no musical performance is complete without a nice audience!

Instruments will be available, but you can also bring your own.

Time 6pm-10pm.

Call 38 071-777.

before;

• Limited numbers of people will be allowed entry at any

one time;

• For safety reasons children will not be allowed in the

shop during the sale;

• Cash accepted, no cards.

The shop is located at 6 Busheiri Gardens, off Budaiya Highway.

Time 1pm-5pm.

Call 17 593-479. www.bahrainthismonth.com

IFTAR AT B L U

GHABGA AT B L U

RAMADAN KAREEM!

RAMADAN KAREEM!

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU REWARDS YOUR PATIENCE WITH TRADITIONALLY CURATED IFTAR AT BAHRAIN’S FIRST ROOFTOP VENUE AL FANAR. WHILE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY EXPERIENCING THE MAGNIFICENT OVERLOOKING VIEW TO THE SKYLINES OF MANAMA, DELICIOUS ARABIAN IFTAR DISHES WILL SERVE YOUR APPETITE.

UNFORGETTABLE BLU EVENING DURING THIS HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN! A UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE, WHERE FAMILIES AND FRIENDS CAN GET TOGATHER FOR GHABGA, WHILE ENJOYING A WARM BAHRAINI HOSPITALITY AMBIANCE!

BD14 NET PER PERSON*

BD 14 NET PER PERSON*

*SPECIAL GROUP PACKAGES ARE AVAILABLE * TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL +973 17 531666 INFO.DIPLOMAT@RADISSONBLU.COM

happenings

SUPER SEASON CLOSER

MAY 11

DJ MARKUS SCHULZ LIVE

Coral Bay

CORAL BAY DJ Markus Schulz

Prepare to be blown away as Coral Bay rounds off the first half of the year with big-name DJ Markus Schulz.

Organiser Miami Events Bahrain never fails to seek out the best artists and ensure a great atmosphere, so guests can look forward to a season-closing party like no other with talented DJ and producer Markus Schulz, who is making a return visit to the island after performing at last year’s Formula 1 opening night at Coral Bay. Schulz has polled four consecutive years in DJ Mag’s world top 10, ranked as the world’s number two in the Trance Addict, FTB Music and TrancePodium 2010 charts, and won Best American DJ at the IDMAs. The artist has released six mix compilations and four albums under his own name. He also put out the albums Thoughts Become Things and Thoughts Become Things II, under the alias Dakota.

Through his extremely skilful remixing, he has had the opportunity to work with such artists as: Depeche Mode, Madonna, Everything but the Girl, Jewel, OceanLab, Gabriel & Dresden, Télépopmusik, Fat Boy Slim, Miro, Book of Love, Blue Amazon and PQM. His remixes of Intuition and Stand, by Jewel, both hit number 26 May 2018

one on the Billboard club chart.

As if that was not enough, there’ll also be a special live performance by a musician who is a huge influencer in the urban music industry.

DJ Whoo Kid returns after his triumphant National Day performance.

He is currently signed to 50 Cent’s G-Unit Records and its subsidiary label, Shadyville Entertainment. He is the host of The Whoolywood Shuffle on Sirius/XM Radio Shade 45, and, in March 2009, he launched the video website www.RadioPlanet.tv. His productions often use a sound clip that has his DJ name being shouted, with an echo effect, which has become a signature.

The concert will be supported by Bahrain’s own ‘international locals’ DJs Wisky, Essie De Vall and Jackson.

Doors open at 3pm and this promises to be an amazing day and night of non-stop dancing and good times.

Limited pre-sale tickets are available at BD8 for ladies and BD10 for men. On-the-door prices are BD10 for ladies and BD15 for men.

Grab your tickets online from Together in Bahrain at www.togetherinbahrain.com/ markus-schulz-coral-bay-manama-bahrain.html Call 66 331-261, 66 668-801 or 17 312-700.

DJ Whoo Kid

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings 100 BAHRAIN STORIES MAY 12

BOOK LAUNCH

RAMADAN RETAIL Words Bookstore Café

100 Bahrain Stories is an independent project which began on social media in January 2016. The ethos of the project is to share the narratives and portraits of 100 individuals who contribute to the rich fabric of life in Bahrain. The aim is also to show that no matter who we are or what we do, we each have our own story and our humanity is shared.

THROUGHOUT RAMADAN

WELCOME TO RAMADAN SHOPPING BAZAAR

Oasis Malls Muharraq and Riffa

Get into the spirit of The Holy Month with local bazaars throughout Ramadan offering traditional goods daily with special entertainment at weekends such as henna, face painting and clay modelling. There will also be traditional Arabic performance artists on hand and the malls will be running the Clothes For Compassion initiative throughout the month.

Time 4pm.

Daily from sunset to 10pm.

When? May 10 Event? Ladies Breakfast Charity Venue? Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

Call 17 690-790.

Follow @alrashid_group on Instagram.

INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY

GET RUNWAY READY

OPENING OF THE HALL OF GRAVES

Unique pieces handmade from the heart in beautiful Syria. The artisans producing these special pieces have all come from generations of skilled crafstmen and continue to pass on their gift to the next generations.

They smile through the toughest conditions and continue to produce the most beautiful decorations for your home.

Time 10am-6pm.

Call 17 690-790.

Born and raised in Australia, the author, Tanzeel JabbarKhadir, landed in Manama from Melbourne for the first time in 2008. Back then she was so preoccupied with work and her young family that she didn’t take time to explore the Island. She returned to Australia a couple of years later regretting the fact that she hadn’t. Fast forward to 2015, when she and her family found themselves relocating to Bahrain once again. Aware of how lucky she was to have this second chance, this time she promised herself that she would explore the Island as much as she could — and that is what she did, learning the stories of its residents along the way. Initially she shared the stories on social media and when Tanzeel completed 100, this book was born.

MAY 18

When? May 9-12 Event? Zufa Pop-Up Shop Venue? Words Bookstore Café

Bahrain National Museum

MAY 19

MODELLING WORKSHOP

7th Wave Performing Arts School

Join hundreds of philanthropic women for a breakfast get together with keynote speaker, fashion show and mini bazaar.

All raising funds for the security guards of St Christopher’s School and children’s charities in Bahrain.

Call 39 445-156 or 39 461-919.

When? May 10 Event? Young Goans May Queen Ball Venue? Indian Club Bahrain Girls and women, aged 16 and over, compete for the May Queen crown. There’ll also be prizes for runners-up, best smile and best hairdo.

Time 8pm.

Call 35 140-559 or 32 156-029.

When? May 11 Event? Season Closing Party Venue? Coral Bay A bumper party night with international DJs Markus Schulz and Whoo Kid. Call 39 777-701.

When? May 11 Event? Rapper and DJ Cleo Live Venue? Busters

Launched by ICOM in 1975, International Museum Day is held every year on May 18 to promote the role of museums around the world, creating unique, enjoyable and free activities around a specific theme that changes every year and that is at the heart of the international museum community’s preoccupations. It provides the opportunity for museum professionals to meet the public and alert them to the challenges museums face. In 2018, the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities will celebrate the special day with a host of events including the opening of the renovated Hall of Graves. The remodelling of the permanent exhibition gallery aims to introduce an innovative exhibition design to improve the interpretation of the collection and to enhance visitor engagement and participation.

Learn the tricks of the catwalk trade at this first professional modelling workshop in Bahrain. It’s girls and women only and is aimed at anyone aged 14 and above, who either wants to become a model or is just interested in increasing their confidence and self-esteem with tips on presentation and deportment. It’s a three-hour workshop with instruction on the various types of modelling, certification and a fashion show at the end. It costs BD30 and places are limited.

Open daily 8am-8pm.

Time 8.30pm-11.30pm.

Call 17 298-777.

28 May 2018

Thailand’s queen of hip-hop and trap makes an island visit.

Time 8pm.

Call 17 534-044.

Call 38 071-777 or 17 537-567. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Khaimat Al Khaleej IFTAR until 8 PM

GHABGHA

BD 18 weekdays & BD 20 weekends from 10 PM onwards • Special rates are available for prestige club members and corporate partners • Above prices are subject to 10% service charge and 10% government levy

Follow us on social media

Building 11, Road No 3801, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

bystander

Stephen & Marc

Wyndham Garden Hotel Opening The CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA), HE Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, inaugurated the world’s largest Wyndham Garden Hotel in Juffair. The opening ceremony was held in the presence of the HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of the Capital Governorate, Salim Ahmed Mannai, Chairman of Mannai Holding SPC, Ignace Bauwens, Regional Vice President Middle East, Eurasia & Africa, Wyndham Hotel Group, a number of key officials and businessmen.

To view more images, scan the QR code

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Nurun, Cynthia, Stephen & Shadi

Ignace, HE Shaikh Hisham & Salim Ahmed Mannai

Salim Ahmed Mannai

Anil

Shaikh Khalid

Mukul

Salim Ahmed Mannai, Chairman of Mannai Holding SPC, family & VIP guests

Nurun, Lloyd & Nasser

Mary & Lowella

Trisha, Zebu & Rasel

Kimbereley & Carolyne

Earth Hour Wyndham Garden Manama Juffair took part in Earth Hour at its premises.

Stephen, Cynthia & Mukul

30 May 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

Sameer Nass

ALL CHANGE AT THE CHAMBER After a hard-fought election that excited unprecedented interest, Sameer Nass is the new chairman of Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). George Middleton caught up with him for an exclusive chat about the campaign and his plans for the future.

Chairman of the Nass Group, Sameer Nass, has been involved with BCCI since he graduated from college in the US back in 1980. Over the years, he has served on both committees and the board of directors.

Initially reluctant to run in the recent election, he says: “There was a lot of pressure from some prominent businessmen who felt that the chamber required people who would create change and bring in corrective measures.

There was a lot of dissatisfaction with the performance and the standard of representation for the business community had been diminished. Its role had been weakened in front of the authority makers and registered bodies.”

Once he had made the decision to run, Sameer discovered many people wanted to join him and each one had to go through a psychometric test to assess their strengths and value to the campaign. From that process was formed the Tojjar 18 bloc – the largest group ever to fight a BCCI election.

The chosen 15 members then underwent a process of questioning to find out their views and ambitions www.bahrainthismonth.com

– what they wanted to offer the voters. The campaign headquarters walls were plastered with these views on sheets of A4 paper; and from these separate views, the campaign policies were formed.

Sameer believes the fierceness of this year’s competition was partly down to his bloc offering hope for change and new blood and also the alteration in the law in 2012, which made it compulsory for every Bahraini registered company to become a member of the BCCI. “The membership went from 8,000 to 36,000, in one go,” says Sameer.

“That’s a huge jump. So, how to reach these people was another challenge. Our research showed that 85 to 89 per cent of the voters were SMEs. So, our concentration was on the mass, we ended up going to the markets, the souqs and the workshops and we got close to those communities and the different sectors and sects.

“Also, we worked on social media, the medium of communication had changed, social media was a huge factor. At the same time, we listened to the people in creating the programme for the next four years.”

Of significant plans for the future, Sameer has a list, the first of which is a modification of the law which currently gives the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism the final say, and potential veto, on BCCI board decisions.

He also wants to see executive

and management restructuring within the chamber and the creation of an app for members, which will allow them to update their own information and give access to wide ranging data from both Bahrain and across the global chamber of commerce network.

Additionally, there are plans for an online portal, through an international global operator, to promote Bahraini businesses and products both in the Kingdom and across the region.

“The global market is becoming younger and their shopping habit is online. This can be a powerful tool to increase sales. With this portal we will increase the population base of market exposure from 1.4 million in Bahrain to 45 million across the region, and that’s the first stage. We also want to target the Asian and wider Middle Eastern markets – the ultimate goal is to market to a population of a billion!

“The next stage of this will be to create a virtual reality platform, which is under development, and will be called the Souq engined by Amazon. It will be something amazing and the business community will be elated.”

Sameer and his colleagues feel it is important that the chamber and business community are represented within the executive and legislative body. He says: “We want our opinions to be taken seriously, we want to take part in the formation of policies and strategies for the country, to take the economy forward and, at the same time, to be on the lookout for any legislative changes or charges that might create more burden on the business community.”

He claims that, as the government moves towards becoming a regulator rather than an operator, there will be more opportunities for business but he adds that a change in the economic model is needed at government level and says many of the ministries are greatly overstaffed, thus putting a drain on the economy.

After just three hours in his own company office since his election, Sameer recognises that he has a huge task ahead of him.

this month

An Educational Partnership, p32

The Big Fish, p34

The Funniest Arab, p36

Big is Beautiful, p38

View video online

May 2018 31

interview

W

ith a history dating back more than 100 years, City & Guilds (C&G) is known and trusted the world over for educational, technical and practical qualifications that are recognised and highly valued by employers and governments due to the rigorous quality assurance procedures employed.

C&G regional manager, Tony Degazon, explains: “Our mission is to help people develop the skills they need to succeed – the skills that help them progress into a job, on the job and onto the next job.

“Training institutes, colleges and other organisations provide the day-to-day training and our role is to ensure that City & Guilds standards [in areas such as equipment, facilities and instruction] are maintained for all qualifications that are C&G accredited. This is done through a team of expert assessors.

“We also work with governments and ministries across the region to support strategic technical and vocational reform and believe we can offer significant value to Bahrain with our experience and expertise.”

Locally, he cites the example of a longestablished company which has recently created an oil and gas academy and is using C&G to support tech training for new Bahraini graduates to work in the industry. It also uses the organisation’s ILM (Institute of Leadership & Management) standards that support supervisors and line management in training and progression.

“A lot of companies come on board because they want to be measured against a third-party standard. It’s an international standard, so they can say their training is world class,” says Tony.

“C&G and ILM are also progressive, they [students] can continue on to do other things and our qualifications give them an opening to that – with ILM, students can go from entry level to Master’s.”

Now SOS (Strategic Outsourcing Solutions), a division of Red House Marketing, has been appointed as the company’s exclusive representative in Bahrain, allowing face-toface communication on the ground.

Red House chairman, George Middleton, says: “As an Anglo-Bahraini businessman, living in Bahrain for 39 years, I have identified and am acutely aware of the need to support the youth in their pursuit of vocational qualifications to help them do their jobs to the best of their ability and provide world-class facilities in our country.”

Tony continues: “Training allows people to support themselves and their families. His 32 May 2018

Tony Degazon and George Middleton

AN EDUCATIONAL PARTNERSHIP LIZ O’REILLY As the world’s number one education provider, the UK’s City & Guilds signs an exclusive partnership with Bahrain’s Strategic Outsourcing Solutions.

BTM finds out what’s in store.

Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has said that Bahraini people enjoy working and they want to do their best. We’re supporting them to do that.

“We also get involved in quite high-level government infrastructural development; for example we’ve just completed a TVET reform piece of research for Dubai – positioning Dubai as a high-skills hub and the strategy needed for that to be realised.

“The GCC is exploring skills testing for migrant workers in the country of origin, which would assure the quality of workers but also provide greater employment mobility and protection.”

The two companies are looking to support sectors including hospitality and tourism, also engineering and oil and gas – current focal points of high significance.

Tony adds: “C&G is also investing in high-skill technical training and has recently made an

acquisition in nuclear engineering.”

Assessments are performed by qualified people who come in externally to verify performance and results. A key aspect of C&G qualifications is that they test knowledge and understanding through exams and also assess practical competence, ensuring internationalstandard qualifications.

George concludes: “I look forward to the task in hand in support of our joint objective of encouraging self-reliance in my fellow Bahrain citizens through the attainment of practical skill sets and expertise. This will enable them to embark on productive and rewarding careers in the future.

“I am confident that the City & Guilds-ILM trajectory of success in the area is at its very beginning and I look forward to being able to contribute effectively to the organisation’s development in this regard.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Hamad & Hend

Moe & Heba

Arsalan & Shereen

Nasreen & Jaymar

AKA by Meisei Launch AKA by Meisei, home to the extreme cocktail, held a grand opening party at its premises in Adliya. Members of the press, social influencers and VIPS gathered for the grand opening party to experience a place where indulgence, taste and innovation are taken to new extremities.

To view more images, scan the QR code

AKA Mixology Team

Muneera, Ali & Saleh

Uliana, Ana & Julia

Jayne, Apple, Kat & Sumaya

Sail to Alaska on brand new Norwegian BLISS Custom-built to enjoy Alaska's spectacular views Norwegian Bliss delights you with 29 dining options including an Authentic Texas Smokehouse restaurant, a two level electric-car race track, exciting nightlife & musical shows, the fastest water slides at sea & thrilling activities.

Day

Time

Port of Call

Country United States

Sat

05:00 PM

Seattle

Sun

12:00 AM

Cruise

None

Mon

03:00 PM

Ketchikan

United States

Tue

01:30 PM

Juneau

United States

Wed

05:30 PM

Skagway

United States

Thu

12:00 AM

none

United States

Fri

10:00 PM

Victoria, BC, Canada

Canada

Sat

08:00 AM

Seattle

United States

Tel : +973 17008289 / +973 17216411 Email : cruise1@farhat-tours.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

*Terms & Conditions Apply

Starting from 2nd Jun., 7 Nights Cruise, every Saturday until 22nd Sept. 2018

May 2018 33

interview

THE BIG FISH APPLE SHARMA Ian Fisher talks fondly about his time at Radio Bahrain and his new role in teaching.

A

household name in Bahrain, Ian Fisher needs no introduction. For nearly four decades he entertained the masses with his familiar voice on Radio Bahrain.

He first came to the Kingdom in the ‘60s when his father joined BAPCO. Ian went to Awali School and, after finishing university in the UK, returned to the island. After a short stint at a quantity surveying firm, he began working for Radio Bahrain in 1978. “I started off originally in the library,” he says. “I’d help out and run errands and take requests. I’ve always had a love for music.”

Ian worked his way up and remembers his debut show, saying: “I’d done recorded shows.

My first live show, I was sitting in for somebody and I was a bundle of nerves. I’ve rather improved on that since.”

One of the biggest things that happened during his career was when the Gulf War broke out. While many expatriates were leaving the island, Ian stayed back and recalls telling Ahmed Suleiman, the then head of Radio Bahrain: “There’s a war happening on my patch and I’m in the media – of course, I’m staying!”

He volunteered to do the late show, adding: “On the first night I did midnight till 6; I had hours of material and playlists. At ten to three, Dr Hala Al Omran, the undersecretary to the Ministry of Information, rang me in the studio and announced, “The Gulf War has started. There’s an air raid over Baghdad” and she put the phone down. I took about five seconds and thought I’m not going to need this playlist. The phones went absolutely crazy. Everybody from the radio station came in. We were ripping and reading stories from all over the place – absolutely 34 May 2018

Ian Fisher

incredible. I finished my shift and went, ‘Wow!’ I announced the Gulf War to the Gulf.”

Having been on nearly every show on the radio, he finds it hard to pick a favourite, saying: “The breakfast show had its own vibe, its own pace, and it was certainly challenging.

It was great fun to do, apart from the fact that I had to get up at 4.30am.”

In the aftermath of the recent changes at Radio Bahrain, Ian left the station last April after 39 years. He has fond memories of working with various colleagues, including Marie-Claire and Paul Frazer, and takes pride in his achievements, saying: “No matter what show I was doing, I put a lot into it – features, competitions and information, and I think it helped. Just putting on non-stop music doesn’t hack it, as far as I’m concerned.”

Recently, Ian has begun lending his voice to other projects, with audiobook narrations. “My most successful book so far is called Owen by Tony Riches. It’s a great story about Owen Tudor, who married Catherine of Valois, the widow of Henry V.” Currently, he’s working on a historical novel set in the 1500s, called The Devil’s Library by Tom Pugh, and recently finished another – Night of Flames – set in World War II.

A man of many talents, Ian has been teaching English as a foreign language for over 20 years at various institutes in Bahrain, and now presides over Access Training Center (ATC).

“I’m director of ATC, which is affiliated with ACEC, the American Center for Education and Culture,” he says. “ACEC is a Bahraini company that’s been running since 2000. It recently received an outstanding grade in the last Quality Assurance Agency survey.

“The centre teaches English. We do courses from beginners right the way through to IELTS, which is preparation for university. We’re moving into business English courses but waiting for approval from the relevant ministries.”

The institute has a scholarship programme for underprivileged students called the Access Program, sponsored by the US Embassy. “We just had a new intake at the beginning of the year and had over 800 applicants for 35 places,” says Ian. “We give them two years of English training and exposure to Western ideas and values.”

Most listeners would know that rock music is Ian’s favourite and he’s known occasionally to do some karaoke. He’s also an avid biker and runs with the Hash groups.

Signing out, we wish Ian well in his new career! www.bahrainthismonth.com

Al Bawadi Tent ً ‫اﻹﻓﻄﺎر ﺣﺘﻰ اﻟﺴﺎﻋة اﻟﺜﺎﻧﻴة ﺻﺒﺎﺣﺎ‬ ً ‫ﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﻳﻮﻣﻴﺎ ﻃﻮال ﺷﻬﺮ رﻣﻀﺎن اﻟﻜﺮﻳﻢ‬

From Iftar till 2 am daily During the month of Ramadan

BD 12++

‫ﺑﻮﻓﻴﻪ اﻹﻓﻄﺎر‬ Iftar Buffet

‫ﻣﻊ اﻟﻤﻄﺮب اﻟﻤﺼﺮي اﻟﻤﺘﺄﻟﻖ ﻣﺤﻤﺪ اﻟﻄﻮﺧﻲ‬

Mohammed El Tokhi

‫ﺑﻮﻓﻴﻪ اﻟﺴﺤﻮر‬

Suhoor Buffet

BD 7++

For Reservation

interview

THE FUNNIEST ARAB APPLE SHARMA Comedian and actor Waddah Swar tickles our funny bone and chats about his latest project.

E

ven if you think you haven’t heard of Waddah, you probably have! When you hear one of those deep voices in film trailers, there’s a good chance that one of them is his.

Waddah caught the funny bug at the age of 17, when he saw Martin Lawrence’s show Runteldat in Washington DC in 1998. “There were probably 30 to 40 thousand people, and it was just the way he made me laugh. I was so inspired that I could do this,” says Waddah.

He tried his hand at stand-up comedy in Florida, US, and had his first job at a comedy club, where he was reassured of his talent.

“Comedy clubs in the US are like gyms to comedians,” he says. “It’s where you go to work out, you try your jokes. The organisers would bring thousands of people and just throw you to the crowds. You’ve got to be really good, because you don’t come back next time. It was like gladiator mode.”

After 19 years in the US, Waddah returned to Bahrain. Noticing a gap in the market, he was among the pioneers who ignited the comedy scene on the island. “We brought the Axis of Evil crew and did the first comedy show in 2008,” he says.

Waddah had his big break opening the show for Maz Jobrani. “It was a big boost, and I worked with lots of celebrities after that,” he says. “At Dubai Comedy Festival, I was with David Chappelle, Eddie Griffin, Trevor Noah and Gabriel Iglesias.”

Having worked alongside regional and international celebrities, he says he enjoyed working with Russell Peters the most.

“Standing among these international stars carrying my country name is a great honour,” he says.

Waddah has been entertaining audiences in the region, switching from English to Arabic, and still managing to deliver the punchlines. In 2013, he was crowned ‘The Funniest Arab’, winning the Kit Kat Comedy Break show, as the sole representative from the GCC. “I felt like a million bucks,” he says. “I also did the world championship before the Laugh Factory in LA in 2015, and came third worldwide.”

36 May 2018

Waddah Swar

Changing his jokes to suit the crowd, Waddah prepares for gigs by researching the culture of the country he’s visiting. In terms of the inspiration for his new material, he says: “My situations, family, work, marriages, relationships. It’s best to keep the comedy clean. This way you can hit so many levels, from young to old. In the end, it’s like therapy because instead of talking to a doctor you talk to thousands of people.”

Enamoured by his voice, people started offering Waddah voiceover jobs, which snowballed into acting. Talking about his latest Netflix project, Medinah, he says: “A production company from LA contacted me; they were doing a series for Netflix.

Immediately they said, ‘The character is such an evil guy, you’ll fit perfectly.’ I always get the evil bad guy. I think it’s because of my voice.

“I play the character Jatal, the leader of an army. It’s a sci-fi series in English but there’s Arabic in it and Arami, which is the oldest language in the world. It was tough and a lot of work.”

Medinah has some big stars, including Natasha Henstridge and Eric Roberts, with Season One to be launched at the end of this year. Waddah is also lending his voice for an animation film about animals, where he’s playing yet another bad guy!

Waddah’s advice to youngsters trying to break into the field is: “Don’t sit in your pool wanting to be the biggest duck. See what’s out there – learn languages, accents, get into trouble.

Getting into trouble is so funny, afterwards.”

And the secret to making someone laugh?

“Let them know you went through more pain than them and you’re still standing,” he says.

Fun Facts • He was a commercial airline pilot.

• He was the first Arabic Bahraini to do a full tour in the Laugh Factory.

• He says Saudis are his best audience.

• Cooking is his other passion.

• He owns Badawi Restaurant, with branches in Hoora and Seef Mall Muharraq. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

BIG IS BEAUTIFUL LIZ O’REILLY

As Juffair’s newest hotel held its official opening, BTM spoke to the men responsible for bringing the world’s biggest Wyndham Garden to the Kingdom.

T

he 441-room property is operated by the Wyndham Group under licence from owning company Mannai properties. Asked the reasoning behind creating such a large development on our small island, Salim Ahmed Mannai, Chairman of Mannai Holding SPC, explains: “It’s a business decision. We could see that the time was right with the developments going on in Juffair. My company has been involved in this area since the 1980s; we built the first inclusive apartments here, which had things such as swimming pools, squash courts, parking and security.

“I had been in Europe and seen these things, so I took the best of what I had seen and brought it here to Bahrain, and that’s what we’re doing still.”

CEO of Mannai Holding SPC, Anil Nair, adds: “We believe we have the right product. If it was box-like rooms, there could be a problem, but this property is family-oriented – our smallest accommodation is 54sq/m and we also have a selection of suites and one-, two- and threebedroom apartments. This will give us a segment of long-stay guests, which will be the base to build on.

“Two or three years ago, Juffair would not have been the ideal place for a property of this size. There were no shopping centres or other facilities. But now we have new malls, a cinema, a theatre. These are the things that make Juffair attractive as a family destination and we have already seen that we had 300 rooms occupied last weekend, before the property is even officially open!”

Ignace Bauwens, Regional Vice President Middle East, Eurasia and Africa, for Wyndham Hotel Group, adds: “The Wyndham Garden is our upper mid-scale brand and we believe Juffair can support a property on this scale both from a family guests’ point of view and also through business travellers.

“We worked strategically with Mr Mannai and Mr Anil on both this and the first hotel [the Ramada Hotel & Suites, Amwaj Islands] to deliberately focus on this mid-market 38 May 2018

Salim Ahmed Mannai

Anil Nair

Left to right: Mr Nair, Mr Mannai, Mr Bauwens and Mr Mehta

segment, offering quality, affordable and efficient accommodation.”

Salim Mannai continues: “To be honest, we have to look at understanding what’s going to happen in the future. I think, for Bahrain, hospitality, education and also the retirement sector are where we will be looking for business.

“The government is working to support the hospitality sector and, of course, we now have the announcement of the major new oil find, which is great news.”

“There is major investment going on,” says Ignace. “The airport’s capacity is to be increased from nine million to 14 million, which means there will be more people using Bahrain as a hub. There is also the agreement to build the new exhibition centre. There is a recognition

that Bahrain, aside from tourism, can also expand into the MICE [meetings, incentives, conferences and events] market, which this property is ideally placed to accommodate.”

Salim Mannai adds that size and variety of rooms, suites and apartments means there is an accommodation option to suit every traveller, from those staying just one night to long-term guests.

And cluster GM, Mukul Mehta, adds that another unique selling point for Wyndham Garden is its premium food and beverage offering, which takes up the whole of the 28th floor and includes Via Brazil, Jashan, for Indian cuisine, and Italian eatery Trattoria. There’s also a trendy roof garden where guests can enjoy stunning views while enjoying a relaxing drink. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

A Surprise for Jamil It came as a pleasant surprise to long-term Bahrain resident and business tycoon, Jamil Wafa, when his old friend, Josep Maldonado, rang him out of the blue to arrange a meeting in London at short notice. “I have a surprise for you,� said Josep, who is director general of sports in Catalonia, and a senior member of the Spanish Parliament.

At 11am the following morning, Jamil was with his son, Ramzi, at the InterContinental Hotel in Park Lane, London, waiting to meet Josep and his son who had travelled all the way from Barcelona carrying with them what looked like a large picture frame; meticulously wrapped.

Josep and his son were well aware of Jamil’s passion for tennis and he was delighted to discover that he had been presented with a tennis shirt signed, no less, by the legendary hero, Rafa Nadal. Jamil was ecstatic and has expressed his sincere gratitude to both Josep and Rafa for their outstanding gesture.

Josep Moldonado and his son

www.bahrainthismonth.com

to icated irt ded y tennis b nnis sh The te Wafa signedl Jamil Rafa Nada legend

Jamil Wafa

Nadal in action

May 2018 39

bystander

Lulu British Week Lulu Hypermarket celebrated its popular British Week in all of its branches across Bahrain. HE Simon Martin, the British Ambassador, inaugurated the opening at the Juffair branch.

To view more images, scan the QR code The cake-cutting ceremony

Biju, Kaleem, Stuart, Juzer & Vineet

Nimish & Shibin

Razak, Shameer & Sakeer

Sophie, Lydia & HE Simon Martin

Joylyn & Anita

Mahesh & Biju

Duo Etnopolis As part of the Spring of Culture 2018 programme, Violinist Luca Ciarla and accordionist Antonino de Luca presented a folk Mediterranean performance at the Cultural Hall.

HE Domenico Bellato & Laura

The duo onstage

Shaikha Hala & Fouzia

40 May 2018

Mary & Neama

Fajer, Narjes, Zahra & Sana

Razan, Zahra & Yomn

Abdul Rahman Kanoo, Badriya & Liliane

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Jalil Al Ansari, Ahmed Jawahari & Abdulrahman Juma

Annual General Meeting The Bahrain India Society held its annual general meeting at the Elite Resort & Spa. Vijay Baloor, Chirag Sheth, Zoher & Prakash Patel

Balasubramanyam

Puneet

Sushil & Kumar

Talal Mannai, Ahmed & Abdulrahman

Mohammad Dadabhai

Vijay Baloor & Raj Damani

RAMADAN KAREEM Revive the traditions along with family and friends to a wide spread Iftar buffet with a feast of middle eastern cuisines and a selection of traditional juices, sweets and savories.

Come & Enjoy, let us make this Ramadan memorable for you.

DAILY IFTAR AT CAFÉ MOSAIC

Adult: BD10 net | Children: BD 5 net (ages 6-11 years old) Special group rate for 10 persons and above

GHABGHA BUFFET

Daily from 9pm to 2am for BD 8 net Venue available for private groups / corporate ghabgha gatherings *Terms and Conditions Apply

Reserve your table now at +973 6631 6666 Building 65, Road 4003, Block 340, Juffair P.O. Box 13220 | Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain fnb@wyndhamgardenmanama.com wyndhamgardenmanama.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2018 41

bystander

Ires, Yasmin & Natalie

Veronika & Eslam

Wolfgang Puck Pre-Race Party Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay held an F1 pre-race party with celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck.

Richard, Wolfgang Puck & Simon

Arnavaz & HE Justin Siberell

Noor & Robert

Richard & Brian

Stefan & Dorothea

Ameera, Josie & Rumaina

Maizie & Jack

Haribo & Mathew HE Simon Martin & Sophie

Cup Final Bahrain Rugby Football Club triumphed in the West Asia Cup final.

Darshan, Arjun & Mehdi

Sophia, Bella & Mousie

Cieria, Paula, Mike & Jerry

42 May 2018

Victor, Alex, Carine & Hadrien

Elaine, Brandie & Amber

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOTORING

My Life in Cars

this month

The Perfect Taxi, p46

DICK POTTER Whenever the topic of car technology, innovation or futuristic motor foresight arises, the name Elon Musk will also, inevitably, arise.

Now, to my Missus, Elon Musk is the newest oud on the market! To me, he is a fascinating individual. I would quite happily put him on my clichéd dining table of famous people. Other invitees possibly being Richard Branson, Putin and Ricky Gervais.

You, dear readers, are probably most familiar associating Elon Musk with Tesla cars. However, there is considerably more to this caped crusader. With his unique blend of South African, Canadian and American accent, he has forayed into fascinating ventures such as SpaceX, Solar City and Tesla.

Quite the visionary, Mr Musk is not only a business genius, investor and engineer, he is also currently valued at USD20 billion. Not exactly short of a bob then, is he? As if that’s not enough, he is also at the forefront of delivering self-drive electric cars and reusable rockets to open up space to the masses.

SpaceX will launch rockets at a fraction of current costs, using recoverable and reusable launch vehicles.

His immediate goal is multiplanetary colonisation commencing with Mars. Another company, The Boring Company – not if you’re interested in cars – will bring an underground car transport system into Los Angeles.

Sporting a 30-kilometre underground transport network system, it intends to move cars on a carriertype arrangement at up to 200kph.

You also have to admire his pluck at being appointed a technical advisor to the Trump administration. He allegedly resigned his post after disagreements with “The Donald’s” decision to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement last year.

As this is a motoring column, we have to come back to his Tesla plan of making autonomous driving the norm.

This year, Telsa was awarded tech car of the year by What Car magazine. It won this accolade for being able to change the car’s infotainment system by app www.bahrainthismonth.com

download and upgrade.

Seeing this, who could fail to have been impressed by his outrageous publicity stunt? Combining SpaceX and Tesla, Elon put a Tesla with a spaceman mannequin driver into earth orbit to the sounds of David Bowie’s Space Oddity. The launch boosters landed safe and sound and reusable back on Earth.

Tesla is a game changer in the industry. Spanning 14 years, it has in that time challenged more experienced and established manufacturers.

Tesla’s wireless update system ensures your Tesla is always current and up-to-date and unlocks new features and abilities to make self-driving software – called Autopilot – safer and easier to use.

The battery-charging-network outlets are also growing so that you become less likely to be far away from a recharging point.

Tesla have two new models in the pipeline. The Tesla Roadster, touted to be the quickest car in the world, with a 0-60mph in 1.9 seconds and a top speed in excess of 250mph. Good luck with those speeds and the proliferation of speed cameras around the island! The Roadster proposes to have a range of 1,000 kilometres.

The second offering consists of the first electric semitruck resembling a spaceship. Can’t wait to get my hands on one of those.

The production line of existing cars is also being increased, now churning out 6,000 cars per week.

This is possible, as announced recently, due to increased automation.

We know Tesla have had issues with the Model 3, but they rise to the challenge continuously, throwing down the gauntlet to other manufacturers.

Tesla has been prominent in bringing electric cars into the market and also making self-driving technology a reality. It continues to develop its model portfolio with gusto and strives to increase limits for range and performance of electric vehicles.

I, for one, shall be following Elon’s car technology developments with baited breath.

Email dick@redhousemarketing.com

A Collector's Dream, p47

View more info online

May 2018 43

bystander

Paula, Haya & Waleed

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Entertainment+ presented The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show at the Cultural Hall.

Performers on stage

Gemma, Megan & Hendrik

Jyothi, Likith & Naidu

Lily, Nyla & Alexander

Geetika & Vikram

Kalyani & Maithili

Group hosted its annual staff dinner party at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. Nawal Joz appreciated the hard work of the Annual Staff Party Joz staff during an award ceremony, which was followed by dance performances.

The Joz Group Crew

Ayesha & Nawal

44 May 2018

Nawal & Mohammed Ali

Nawal & Lolita

Nawal & Ashraf

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringnews&launches

The Perfect Taxi This ideal modern city taxi has environment-friendly fuel efficiency, high-tech safety features, and is accessible to all.

Visitors to the region’s biggest gathering in the public transport industry, the UITP MENA Transport Congress & Exhibition, which took place at the Dubai World Trade Center last month, had a chance to see, for the first time, the brand-new Mercedes-Benz Vito City Taxi.

Built for today’s city operations, the Vito Tourer City Taxi incorporates specific tailor-made modifications that range from

efficiency and safety all the way to functionality and accessibility, including a bulkhead taxi partition, floor-integrated wheelchair assistance ramp, wheelchair load assistance device with cable winch, vis-à-vis custom-built seating arrangement with folding seats, and many more.

Specially engineered for the region, versatility defines the Vito. With a choice of many customisation options, this vehicle allows the regional customer to tailor their van to the way they live and work, and helps reduce the environmental impact along the way.

TOP HONOUR

New Formula E Entry The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has confirmed Porsche as a new Formula E manufacturer.

This means that the Weissach factory team can continue to pursue the development of its own electric powertrain.

As announced earlier, Porsche plans to be among those competing in the sixth season of the global electric racing series at the end of 2019.

Formula E will provide the chassis as well as the battery.

All powertrain components, however, are the competitors’ own developments. This enables Porsche to find bespoke solutions for key technologies such as the electric motor, inverter, brake-by-wire system, transmission, differential, driveshafts, monocoque and the suspension components attached to the rear axle, as well as the cooling system and Engine Control Unit.

Porsche’s entry into Formula E in 2019 will coincide with the market launch of the production version of the concept study Mission E. This vehicle, the first all-electric Porsche, will be the most sports-focused and technologically advanced car in its class. Porsche will invest more than six billion Euros in electric mobility before the end of 2022.

46 May 2018

The Audi A8 has won the ‘World Luxury Car 2018’ award at the New York Auto Show. The win underscores the status of the brand’s flagship as the embodiment of ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ (Advancement through Technology).

The 82 jury members from 24 countries assessed not only the emotional appeal, passenger comfort and safety, but also environmental aspects as well as driving performance, market relevance and price-performance ratio. The Audi A8 prevailed against two competitors in the final elimination round. This marks the ninth overall victory for the brand with the four rings in the World Car Awards.

The Audi A8 is being built at the Neckarsulm site and will be available in dealerships in the Middle East starting from the end of April. In addition to its select materials and handcrafted-level build quality, its highlights include highend equipment like the HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light, dynamic all-wheel steering and the relaxation rear seat package with foot massage.

Secure Stowage Bentley is introducing capacitive fingerprint sensor technology with a secure stowage unit in the Bentayga – affording customers even greater peace of mind.

Developed by Bentley’s personal commissioning division, Mulliner, the fingerprint sensor technology has been applied to a high-pressure die-cast aluminium secure stowage unit located in the cabin. This discreet and unobtrusive locker creates the ideal place to stow valuables while at the beach, on the ski slope or utilising valet parking services.

With two USB ports and an auxiliary socket, it can also be used for connecting and charging mobile devices both inside and outside the unit, enabling occupants to access Bentayga’s extensive infotainment technology, including Apple CarPlay.

“The Mulliner Biometric Secure Stowage unit is hidden from view,” says Mulliner’s technical operations head Uday Senapati. “We are incorporating the familiar capacitive fingerprint sensor technology from smartphones that can store multiple fingerprints, allowing the user to control who accesses their valuables.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Collector’s Dream

Going Green The all-new 2018 Nissan LEAF, the world’s best-selling electric vehicle, was named the ‘2018 World Green Car’ at the 2018 New York International Auto Show. LEAF is the icon of Nissan Intelligent Mobility, the company’s vision for changing how cars are powered, driven and integrated into society.

The first all-electric vehicle to win the World Green Car Award since the category’s inception in 2016, the 2018 Nissan LEAF has been reinvented for its second generation. The new Nissan LEAF combines greater ‘driving range1’ with a dynamic new design, and the latest Nissan Intelligent Mobility features, including ProPILOT Assist, e-Pedal, automatic emergency braking and more.

The 2018 Nissan LEAF rose to the top among a list of five initial category entries and was the stand-alone EV in the running.

Jurors considered the vehicle’s overall environmental impact, including tailpipe emissions and fuel consumption, in selecting the overall winner.

A New Entrant

Bold and Beautiful

www.bahrainthismonth.com

In a bold expression of dynamic luxury, Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Wraith Luminary Collection.

Inspired by those who lead where others follow, the collection will light the way for the luxury trailblazer.

In response to an ongoing global demand for RollsRoyce Collection Cars, the marque has created a Limited Collection of just 55 of these spectacular Wraiths.

These motorcars join the highly exclusive ranks of collectible Bespoke masterpieces, envisioned by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke design team and collected by patrons of true luxury all over the world.

Its many luxurious features include first-ever shooting star headliner – eight shooting stars fire at random,

Genesis has officially launched its compact G70 luxury sedan in Middle East markets, completing the ambitious brand’s core sedan line-up.

Engineered as a dynamic car with strong appeal to younger customers and more enthusiastic drivers, the G70 joins the flagship G90 large sedan and mid-sized G80 and G80 Sport, once again demonstrating the commitment to excellence and authenticity that underpins the world’s newest luxury auto brand.

The Genesis G70 is the latest representation With its striking appearance, agile handling and daring design cues, the first ever INFINITI QX30 is set to create a new generation of explorers on the region’s roads when it goes on sale in the Middle East this month.

The INFINITI QX30 holds a unique position in the segment, bridging the gap between premium compact rivals and larger crossover models, created for a new generation of premium buyers who appreciate categorydefying design inside and out.

Remaining true to the powerful and elegant design cues that guided the original QX30

predominantly over the front seats; world debut of illuminated wooden panelling; stainless steel handwoven fabric incorporated into the cabin; and global debut of Sunburst Grey paint – solid grey with rich copper tones.

As a final touch, ‘WRAITH LUMINARY COLLECTION – ONE OF FIFTY-FIVE’ is engraved in handpolished stainless steel on the car’s tread plates.

of the brand’s rapidly evolving DNA, with its graceful and dynamic exterior styling, elegant and intuitively designed interior, and choice of two different powertrains: turbocharged 3.3-litre petrol V6 and 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol I4.

“Genesis has been very well received in the Middle East, and the Genesis G70 will be an exciting new chapter in our story,” says Genesis general manager for the Africa and Middle East region Altar Yilmaz. “For many of our potential customers, this is the Genesis they have been waiting for.” concept, the car’s highly sculpted exterior, unique crossover stance and asymmetric cabin design exemplify INFINITI’s design-led approach to product development.

The QX30 is characterised by dramatic curves and sculpted character lines, evolving them into new dynamic shapes for a more purposeful appearance. Its crossover-style versatility extends from unique design appeal and a wide range of comfort, convenience, safety and dynamic features, along with an elevated ride height and high-stability drivetrain designed to give drivers an added level of confidence.

May 2018 47

bystander

Mazen & Tania

Margaret & Namrata

Restaurant Opening Al Abraaj Group held the grand opening of its newly launched brand concept restaurant, San Carlo Cicchetti, at its premises in Al Aali Shopping Complex.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Carmine Sacco & Rashid Hilal

Abdulla & Rashid

Faisal & Yasser

Patrice & Rabela

Fran, Nadine & Gracie

Grand Opening Gala Party Reef Resort held its grand opening gala party at its premises in Reef Island.

Pascal Mouawad, Robert Mouawad & Sulaima

Patricia

Jalal

Leigh

Gary

Shaikh Khalid & Akram Miknas

To view more images, scan the QR code Laura & HE Domenico Bellato

Pascal & Leila

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Sulaima & Mamta

Eugene & Olga

48 May 2018

Dr Bashar & Sahar

Waleed Kanoo

Jalil Al Ansari

Guy & Ligia

Alex & Irina

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Mariem, Jennet, Mary & Faisal

Property Investment Event Bahraini-British property advisor, Nadia Shaheen, and UK developers, Taylor Wimpey Central London, hosted an exclusive event to introduce investors in the Kingdom to the latest phase of Ebury Place, Pimlico London, an upscale development located in the heart of London.

Akshay, Sarah, Nadia & Aditya

NS FOR RAM SO AD A E

#

89

A

R

Lara, Kirsti, Nader & Adel

“Best in Show�

Sami, Wassim & Issam

Faisal & Tanya

Lulwa, Fareeda & Nadia

RAMADAN KAREEM During the Holy Month of Ramadan, revive the traditions along with family & friends at our Ramadan Tent to a widespread Iftar Buffet with a feast of middle eastern cuisines and a selection of traditional juices, sweets and savories.

Come & Enjoy, let us make this Ramadan memorable for you.

Iftar Buffet Price: BD 11 net for adults BD 5.5 net for kids from 6 -11 years old Venue available for private groups/ Corporate Ghabgha gatherings for up to 150 persons. *Terms and Conditions Apply

Reserve your table now at +973 16000099

RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES AMWAJ ISLANDS P.O. Box 13220, Bldg 1741, Road 5715, Block Amwaj 257 Amwaj Islands, Kingdom of Bahrain www.ramada-manama-amwaj.com | info@ramada-manama-amwaj.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2018 49

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

Mission Enduracool Cooling Wristbands HICKIES Elastic No Tie Shoelaces If you want a quicker and more original way to keep your shoes on your feet then these are perfect for you. They are one-size-fits-all, easy to install, and are made with an elastic memory-fit material that conforms to the feet to provide comfort and support.

Available at www.amazon.com

Another fantastic product from Mission Enduracool, these wristbands are excellent for runners, tennis players, or any other exercise enthusiasts who need a better way to cool down, especially now as the weather gets warmer. All you do is soak it, wring out excess, and snap three times. Repeat and enjoy.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

BBQ Tool Set With the weather getting warmer, barbecue season is upon us.

Everyone could use this handy barbecue tool set, with 14 stainless steel tools with insulated handles. They’re long-lasting, safe, easy to clean, and come in a striking aluminium carrying case.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

Bike Phone Holder This is a simple but handy gadget, enabling you to clamp your phone to your handlebars for easy access.

Whether you need it for GPS or music, it’s safe and stylish, and fits virtually any bike and any phone with sturdy plastic construction and rubber phone grips.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

50 May 2018

Tank Speaker It’s a hardwearing speaker for any lover of the great outdoors. The Tank Speaker is water-resistant, connects via Bluetooth or AUX cable, and has a cool rubberised design with stylish colour-highlight features. You can even use it to answer calls via the internal microphone, and it can provide up to four hours of continuous play.

Available at www.amazon.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Wraps Wearable Wristband Headphones A new and funky gadget, providing you with a stylish and practical solution to your tangled headphone issues, these headphones double up as a bracelet. They fit any wrist, come in a variety of colours, and the sound quality is excellent.

Available at www.amazon.com

Bluetooth Headphones Wireless Bluetooth headphones that are perfect for sports.

They are sweatproof, noise-cancelling, and feature a comfortable ear hook to secure them in place during whatever activity you are doing. They offer up to eight hours of music playing and easy to use buttons.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

Star Wars BBQ Tongs For the geek inside of us, these Darth Vader lightsaber-shaped tongs come with a heat-resistant red sheath and even make lightsaber sounds. The plastic handle resists heat, but not the dark side.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk

Nanodots This addictive and incredibly fun gadget consists of strong magnets that can be constructed into any shape imaginable. They are electroplated and corrosion-resistant, antibacterial, and able to lift up to a thousand times their own weight.

Available at www.menkind.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2018 51

music

Kylie Minogue – Golden What’s the story?

After a long career full of many course corrections and detours, it seemed like Kylie Minogue was locked into being a shiny, glittery dance pop icon for life. A label change and some personal turmoil in the form of a soul-shattering break-up sent Minogue looking for something new musically. When planning her first album for BMG, a label rep asked if she had ever thought of recording country music in Nashville and she jumped at the chance. For 2018’s Golden, Minogue went to Music City, got to work writing songs with some seasoned pros, and ended up co-writing all the songs on the record.

Worth a listen?

It’s heartbreaking and uplifting in turn as Kylie makes sense of where her heart has taken her, set to the tune of fiddles, guitars and woodsy backing vocals along with the more traditional synths, drum machines, and club beats one usually hears on a Minogue album. She and her team of musicians, writers and producers straddle the line between twang and glitter on just about every song; sometimes, it leans more in favour of line dancing, sometimes the glitter ball takes over, especially on the shimmering Raining Glitter. Sometimes, like on Live a Little or

Verdict: A nice change of style for the icon. the very hooky single Dancing, it’s the best of both worlds. It’s an interesting mix that puts her in line with much of what’s happening in mainstream country.

Shorts

Daniel Avery – Song for Alpha

Johnny Cash – Forever Words

Mind Over Mirrors – Bellowing Sun

There’s no shortage of steady, hypnotic beats here, but this album seems more abstract and hazy compared to the electroinfluenced club singles included on Avery’s previous effort Drone Logic. Tracks such as Stereo L and Slow Fade are mid-tempo acidambient baths, weaving scintillating webs of cerebral beats and swirling fuzz. It might take more listens to connect with Alpha than with Drone Logic, but it’s just as powerful and fascinating.

In 2016, a new wrinkle was introduced to Cash’s posthumous legacy when a collection of his poems and lyrics, previously unknown, was published in a book titled Forever Words: The Unknown Poems. Now 16 of the pieces from that book have been set to music by a variety of musicians. While Cash’s lyrical voice is strong in these recordings, each artist wrote and arranged their own music for the songs, and as a consequence this runs all over the stylistic map. Overall, it has some brilliant moments and is an often-moving tribute to Cash’s gifts as a writer, but, as a listening experience, it’s unfortunately inconsistent.

The album is an intricately arranged suite filled with minimalist drum patterns, kaleidoscopic synth sequences, and transcendent yet earthly vocals. There’s a decreased presence of distorted harmony compared to previous MOM releases, with fiddle playing more thoroughly integrated into the mix. One of the album’s exhilarating highlights, Zeitgebers, is driven by an up-tempo beat which makes the piece feel like a brisk train ride through the countryside. Vermillion Pink is more drawn out and a whole lot trippier.

52 May 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

A Way Out Verdict: A thrilling co-op experience.

Rating:

What is it?

A Way Out is a co-op only game uniquely tailored for two players to work together no matter the situation. Through a compelling narrative, Leo and Vincent embark on an emotional adventure where they will live some memorable action moments that they will face together, including car chases, stealth passages, melee fights, shootouts and more.

Gameplay

The game is only played in either online or local split screen co-op between two players with no single player mode. As such, it requires strict teamwork and timing that will often leave you on the floor laughing as much as it will have you exhilarated by the sharp, snappy mechanics. Even though it’s focused on its story sequences, A Way Out is decidedly not a ‘walking simulator’-style adventure – in fact, it’s more like a collection of largely enjoyable minigames.

Yakuza 6: The Song of Life

Yakuza 6 is an action-adventure game set in an open world environment and played from a third-person perspective. It is similar to that of other Yakuza titles with exploration mixed with arcade-style, over-the-top combat.

Kazuma Kiryu returns as the main and only playable character and the game features locations of Kamurocho and Hiroshima.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Graphics

A Way Out is extremely cinematic, and it ebbs and flows like a movie, despite a runtime about three times longer than your average theatre experience. You will spend a lot of its roughly six hours with your controller down, watching cutscenes, but they are beautiful to look at, with the gritty 1970s locale perfectly rendered. Furthermore, many of the action scenes are cut perfectly in one take, whilst the screen is constantly split so you can see what your partner is doing.

Owlboy

Owlboy is a vertical platform adventure set in the sky, where the islands of the world have been spread apart after a great calamity. You play as Otus, among the last of the Owls, a renowned race that has produced many of the world’s great wonders.

Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom

Developed by famed Japanese video game studio Level-5, Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom is the second game in the acclaimed, anime-inspired RPG franchise and features an all-new cast of charming characters, an emotional storyline, and innovative gameplay design that will delight and challenge players.

May 2018 53

websites

VERDICT: A fascinating tool for astronomers.

Friday Brunch The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay held a Friday Brunch with chef Wolfgang Puck at CUT by Wolfgang Puck.

Romaina, Josie, Brian, Dwi & Aija

Site: stars.chromeexperiments.com Rating: What is it?

Jessica & Aidan

Weena & Osian

If you’ve ever wanted to zoom in and explore our galaxy from a computer browser, it is now possible. Stars lets you experience our galaxy in a new way. It contains the entire Milky Way on a single page, so you can zoom in and find things you have never seen before.

The Good

You can find detailed description about a particular star or planet by just clicking on it, plus there is an audio tour option which will take you to several places and levels in our galaxy and show you around with some serious explanations. This site is packed with tons of information that is ready to be consumed. So start exploration and gain some serious knowledge.

Charmaine & Tameisha

Tricia, Kieran & Majella

The Bad

The site runs terribly on mobile, with lots of loading lag and problems zooming in and out, with star names often so small you can’t read them.

If you’re going to use the site, make sure it’s on a PC or laptop.

youtubemapexplorer.herokuapp.com

Earth Hour Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa took part in Earth Hour at its premises.

Unnati, Kumar, Merieme, Ruth & Rahul

YouTube Map Explorer is a unique site which provides a cool feature. You can explore YouTube on a Google Map. You can just

click on any specific or random location on the map and it will show you a video that was uploaded from the particular location. So, it’s a new way to interact and explore new videos on YouTube. You can also switch between latest and classic mode by simply clicking on the switch on the upper-left corner.

www.apartmenttherapy.com Naveen & Prashanth

Prakash & Karthik

If you’re even a little bit of a fan of home decor or DIY projects, this is a website you might find yourself spending time on. There’s a ton of awesome visual and written content.

It has a whole lot of helpful articles giving tips on everything from how to redo your stairs to ideas for using that awkward space above your fridge.

Mohamed, Said, Kumar & Said

54 May 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

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

What is it?

There are all sorts of apps and gadgets for monitoring your sleep, but few of them give much feedback on how to actually sleep better. That’s what Shleep is for. When you first start the app, it asks a short series of questions to gauge the general quality and quantity of sleep you’re getting. It will then coach you towards better sleep through short daily videos (or just audio if you prefer), which highlight things that can help and then give you specific things you can try doing – or not doing as the case may be.

The Good

Some of these suggestions are obvious and others are less so, but putting them into practice can make a real difference.

Shleep will ask how you slept each night, so you can build up a picture of your sleep quality and whether it’s improving.

There are also handy tools like a sleep debt calculator and the option to have daily tips and exercises emailed to you to refer back to later.

The Bad

The app requires a subscription, and it isn’t cheap. Of course, if the app improves your sleep then it’s worth it, but you won’t know until you’ve tried it and therefore making downloading it a bit of a gamble.

App: Shleep Rating: Verdict: A superb app for those struggling with insomnia.

App: JetPal

JetPal in association with Fur & Feathers has launched a new app aimed at making the pet import and export industry more convenient. It will allow pet owners and other customers to monitor the location of precious cargo such as pets, personal items and even people.

A first for the GCC market, the service is available now in Bahrain.

Customers can utilise real time tracking via a subscription service for 150 fils per day. Download the application to a smart phone, select a plan to suit your requirements, and a device will be linked and provided for your account (one per subscription).

55 May 2018

App: Instant eSports

For fans of online gaming, Instant eSports has you covered with live scores, breaking news, and match recaps for even the most MOBAcrazy consumer. The app also features the ability to follow teams or players to keep up with statistics, as well as the ability to chat with other fans.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

movies VERDICT: A superb retro throwback.

Cocktail Party

To view more images, scan the QR code

The K Hotel held a corporate and media cocktail party at its premises.

Randa, Bilal & Anuradha

Maki, Abdul Hamid, Nitai & Yasas

Film: Ready Player One Rating: Directed By: Steven Spielberg Starring: Tye Sheridan, Mark Rylance

The Plot

In the year 2045, the real world is a harsh place. The only time Wade Watts (Tye Sheridan) truly feels alive is when he escapes to the OASIS, an immersive virtual universe where most of humanity spends their days. In the OASIS, you can go anywhere, do anything, be anyone – the only limits are your own imagination. The OASIS was created by the brilliant and eccentric James Halliday (Mark Rylance), who left his immense fortune and total control of the OASIS to the winner of a three-part contest he designed to find a worthy heir. When Wade conquers the first challenge of the reality-bending treasure hunt, he and his friends are hurled into a fantastical universe of discovery and danger to save the OASIS.

Worth Watching?

Ahmad

Dona, Sara & Joanna

The most wonderful and remarkable part of the film is its visual effects.

It captures the feeling of being in a video game, not knowing where the line between real and virtual is, although the film will ultimately tell you where it stands on that distinction, too.

It’s chock-full of little Easter eggs, with something for everyone to recognise. Spielberg has managed to balance the sugar-rush of nostalgia with an un-cynical thrill ride, and it very much captures the magic of some of his earlier films.

Life of the Party

Amit, Shifali, Rehana & Shiranand

Rehana, Esky, Pierric & Tobi

56 May 2018

When her husband suddenly dumps her, long-time dedicated housewife Deanna (Melissa McCarthy) turns regret into reset by going back to college – landing in the same class and school as her daughter (Gillian Jacobs), who’s not entirely sold on the idea.

Plunging headlong into the campus experience, the increasingly outspoken Deanna – now Dee Rock – embraces freedom, fun, and frat boys on her own terms, finding her true self in a senior year no one ever expected.

Rampage

Primatologist Davis Okoye (Dwayne Johnson) shares an unshakable bond with George, the extraordinarily intelligent gorilla who has been in his care since birth. But a rogue genetic experiment gone awry transforms this gentle ape into a raging monster. As these newly created monsters tear across North America, destroying everything in their path, Okoye teams with a discredited genetic engineer to secure an antidote.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sachin, Madan, David, Annu & DJ Shortman

Anton & Zola

Celebrity Party Tyga performed at The One club in Park Regis Lotus Hotel.

Tyga

Simone, Shannon & Jamie

DJ Coco

Berlitz_Bh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ebrahim & Karina

Shannon, Juad & Simone

Karina & Alya

Fowad & Natali

Susan & Sara

Samar & Shahad

berlitzbah

May 2018 57

ramadanhappenings

Ramadan Delights Among the highlights of The Holy Month are the exquisite culinary offerings available all over the Kingdom. Whether you want to splurge or save, BTM rounds up the best options for you.

FIVE-STAR HOTELS THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN The hotel unveils a new tradition this season with the largest and most elegantly designed Ramadan tent – Masaya – designed by renowned designer and scenographer Ammar Basheir. Iftar is priced at BD25++ and Ghabga at BD27++. Guests can also book a private pergola for up to eight persons. Enjoy nightly entertainment while indulging in the splendours of traditional Arabian cuisine and modern Mediterranean, Asian and Mexican fare.

Call 17 586-499.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY Al Bahrain Ballroom will stage a lavish spread with a wide selection of traditional Bahraini fare as well as Lebanese, Moroccan, Indian, Turkish and global cuisine. There will also be several live cooking stations. Iftar is served between sunset and 8pm for BD26++. Ghabga is from 9pm onwards and priced at BD28++. Shisha costs an additional BD10++.

Call 17 115-500.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Welcome The Holy Month at Layali Al Zallaq Ramadan Tent by the sea. A lip-smacking Iftar will be on from sunset to 8.30pm and Ghabga begins from 10pm onwards. Both buffets are priced at BD19.500++. The price for Iftar includes Ramadan juices and beverages, while that for Ghabga includes food only.

Call 17 636-363.

THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN This Ramadan, the famous Khaimat Al Khaleej tent will have a modern, yet traditional, layout and kids’ play area with entertainment and games. Expect a bountiful Iftar and Ghabga buffet with live grills, freshly made savoury pastries, a selection of seven varieties of dates, a live Teppanyaki grill, chocolate fountain, crepe station, homemade Ramadan ice cream flavours and numerous, tasty new entrées.

Call 17 713-000.

bookings before May 7 enjoy discounted rates for Iftar and Ghabga.

Call 17 845-000.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Satisfy your taste buds with traditional Khaleeji cuisine at Furn with a plethora of Middle Eastern delicacies. The buffet, costing BD18, will be laid out from sunset to 8.30pm. Savour authentic Ouzi, Sayadia, Arabic mixed grills, Chicken Maklouba, Marshoush Ades, Fie Qataah, Machboos and Harees.

Go all out with the Tahina fountain, Turkish sweets, Ramadan juices and Arabic coffee.

Call 17 171-441.

SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL Iftar at Awali Ballroom will be a complete Ramadan experience, with typical Arabic décor and dishes. It is priced at BD16++ from Sunday to Wednesday, and BD18++ over the weekends. Al Safir Restaurant will host Ghabga from 9pm onwards for BD12.900++ per person.

Call 17 533-533.

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA A superbly curated Iftar will be laid out at Al Fanar ballroom overlooking Manama’s skyline. Discover the heavenly taste of traditional Khaleeji dishes, as well as international cuisines all under one roof. Special group packages are available.

Call 17 531-666.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Al Murjan Ballroom will be serving a sumptuous array of authentic dishes on the Iftar buffet from sunset to 9pm, for BD19 per person. In the true spirit of charity, BD1 per Iftar guest will be donated to Muharraq Charity Fund. Group reservations of 30 people and more receive a 25 per cent discount.

Call 17 460-017.

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA Discover the grace of Arabian traditions under the Qasr Al Sultan Tent, where a sumptuous Iftar buffet awaits you for BD16++ on weekdays and BD18++ on weekends. Ghabga is a merry affair at BD15++ on weekdays and BD17++ on weekends. Early bird 58 May 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Rifaa Ballroom will be the hotspot of lavish culinary offerings for Iftar at sunset, at BD15++.

Ghabga can be arranged upon prior request for groups, priced at BD14++ per person. The ‘Whole Ouzi and Appetizer’ package, good for up to 20 guests, costs BD150. The ‘Half Ouzi and Appetizer’ package suffices for up to ten persons and costs BD80. The packages include many other Arabic culinary specialities.

Call 17 208-308 or 17 208-313.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN Be charitable by dining at La Mosaique’s Iftar buffet, for BD14.520 per person. For every Iftar guest, a donation of 500 fils will be made to the Children & Mothers Welfare Society. The Bahrain Conference Centre is a perfect atmosphere for your private gatherings for Ghabga. Packages start at BD14.520 per guest for a minimum of 30 people.

Call 17 531-122.

ART ROTANA Discover a majestic garden set-up full of festivities and a gala feast at Choices Restaurant and Terrace. Indulge in a vast selection of traditional Arabic and international dishes, and the best flavours of shisha over Iftar from sunset to 8.30pm, and Ghabga from 9.30pm to 12.30am.

Both buffets cost BD21++ per person.

Call 16 000-111.

RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA Khaymat Mandolin, a grand indoor tent, will be laden with a scrumptious spread for Iftar, followed by Ghabga. Shisha can be enjoyed in the adjacent lounge, and families and friends can enjoy their own private space in the demarcated VIP area. Suhoor can be arranged for large groups on prior request.

Call 17 111-999.

Ramadan delicacies from across the region. The dessert buffet will also be packed with a variety of mouth-watering items. It can be enjoyed from sunset to 8.30pm for BD9.900++ per person.

Each guest will be entered into a raffle draw to win a one-night stay at the hotel by filling out the guest satisfaction questionnaire.

Call 17 360-000.

RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES, AMWAJ ISLANDS Revive Ramadan traditions with loved ones at the hotel’s Ramadan Tent that offers a widespread Iftar buffet comprising Middle Eastern fare, traditional juices, sweets and savouries. The meal costs BD11. The venue is available for private or corporate gatherings for Ghabga, for up to 150 persons.

Call 16 000-099.

THE GROVE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE For a true taste of Ramadan, join in at 25N 50 Eatery for Iftar, daily from sunset to 8.30pm.

Treat yourself to an exquisite array of traditional specialities and delicious Bahraini flavours at just BD10 per person.

Call 16 030-303 or 37 331-610.

STANDALONE RESTAURANTS

FOUR STAR HOTELS

RAMADA MANAMA CITY CENTRE Reem Al Bawadi’s Ramadan tent welcomes you to a warm and relaxed atmosphere and a luxurious Arabic-international inspired Iftar buffet, laden with culinary gems. Discover various interactive cooking stations as you treat your taste buds to delicious fare.

Call 17 104-040.

WYNDHAM GARDEN MANAMA Explore true Middle Eastern flavours at Café Mosaic over Iftar every evening during The Holy Month, for just BD10 per adult. A special group rate for 10 persons and above is available. A Ghabga buffet will be laid out between 9pm and 2am daily for BD8. The venue is available for private or corporate Ghabga gatherings.

Call 66 316-666.

MERCURE GRAND HOTEL SEEF Enjoy the widest selection of delicious Oriental and international dishes, delectable Ramadan juices, flavoured shisha, games and more. Iftar and Ghabga are priced at BD12++ per person. Suhoor runs till 2am on weekdays and costs BD7++ per person. Revel in traditional music from a trio led by the famous Egyptian singer Mohamed Al Toukhi.

Call 17 584-400.

K HOTEL Kolors Restaurant will stage a lavish Iftar buffet comprising traditional dishes along with

PARK REGIS LOTUS HOTEL Enjoy Iftar and Ghabga at the hotel’s Arabesque-themed ‘Lotus Ramadan Tent’. As

www.bahrainthismonth.com

the hotel’s first Ramadan, the extravagant Iftar buffet features a selection of popular local fare and live cooking stations. At Ghabga, savour a multicultural spread of dishes and desserts.

Iftar is from sunset to 8pm for BD 12++, including beverages, and Ghabga from 9pm to 2am for 14++, excluding beverages. Special prices for large groups of 30 or more.

Call 17 362-220 or 36 521-597.

MIAM BAKERY-CAFÉ & RESTAURANT A wide selection of Middle Eastern and signature fusion international specialities including biryanis, machboos, lasagna and pasta feature on the Iftar and Ghabga buffets.

Iftar costs BD3.500, while Ghabga is priced at BD9.800.

Call 17 536-377.

LANTERNS RESTAURANTS Enjoy an Iftar Buffet at BD5.900 at Budaiya and Riffa outlets, and BD5.900++ at Lanterns Lounge in Adliya from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Guests get 50 per cent discount on the à la carte menu at all branches after 9.30pm.

Call 17 250-999 (Adliya) and 17 590-591 (Budaiya).

Various other eateries around town will also be hosting Iftar and Ghabga feasts, so take your palates on an exploratory journey of the traditional delights of The Holy Month.

May 2018 59

ramadanhappenings THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

Ramadan Celebrations

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, will present a tented jewel of opulence to celebrate Ramadan this year.

60 May 2018

As The Holy Month of Ramadan descends upon the Kingdom, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, invites travelling families, dignitaries, government officials, corporate groups and couples alike to experience a month-long celebration at the five-star luxury beach resort like never before. Pulling out all the ‘bells and whistles’ and the traditions and customs to complement them, the resort unveils a new slant on tradition this season: one of the Kingdom’s largest and most elegantly designed Ramadan tents to date, in collaboration with renowned designer and scenographer, Ammar Basheir.

“This year’s celebrations will be a luxurious affair as the resort prepares for one of the most celebrated traditions of the year, says general manager JeanPaul Dantil. “Outdoing years past, our Ramadan tent will be a most magnificent display here in the Kingdom complemented with succulent fare for a most joyous occasion for all.”

Bridging elements of traditional Islamic architecture with modern design, the expansive 40sq/m tent, named Masaya, will put on a display of opulence and grandeur as it takes its place amongst the resort’s seaside villas on the Villa Gazebo lawn. Inside the heptagon-shaped tent, 39 modern wooden archways, with the highest point at nine metres, open up to grand seating areas and lounges that feature deep, emerald-green marble dining tables and warm leather and velvet finishes. Overhead, 400 large embellished hanging lanterns, hand-crafted in Morocco, will light the way to grand buffets featuring displays of customised chaffing dishes from Turkey as well as local earthen ceramics from A’ali Pottery.

“This year’s tent reveals a feast of the senses – an uber chic tent designed to create a sense of connectivity and enjoyment during the most celebrated

holy month of the year,” says designer Ammar Basheir.

“With twisting, modern arches that resemble that of a double spiral helix DNA module, juxtaposed against classic interiors, the tent will unveil a truly allencompassing and total sensory experience.”

As the sun descends each evening and the traditions of Ramadan begin, guests are welcomed to join for two variant seatings: the breaking of the fast – Iftar – from sunset to 8pm, for BD25++, and the Ghabgha dinner from 9pm to 2am, for BD27++. Guests can also book one of the Pergola seating areas for private dining for up to eight guests (limited to seven Pergola seatings at a time).

During the evening feasts, guests will enjoy nightly entertainment while indulging in the splendours of a culinary journey through the resort’s 11 award-winning restaurants, as succulent buffets are set up with aromatic menus encompassing flavours of traditional Arabian cuisine, along with modern fare from the Eastern Mediterranean, Asia and Mexico. Live cooking stations and fresh Egyptian breads and crêpes will also abound, while traditional Ramadan desserts and gourmet sweet delicacies will satisfy the most discerning of palates. A traditional ghawa Arabic coffee station will also be set out at the entrance with a classically dressed attendant welcoming guests to the festivities of the night.

Shisha service will be available nightly from sunset to 2am.

Follow the hotel on Facebook and join the conversation using #RCMemories.

Call 17 586-499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant. reservations@ritzcarlton.com for more information and bookings. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Lia, David & Silvia

Club Grand Opening The One held a grand opening at Park Regis Lotus Hotel.

Daryna & Tijana

To view more images, scan the QR code

Dj Santi, Annu & DJ Shortman

The One staff

Nomer, Liz, Kat & Likhiya

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Akeel, Taral & Raj Pal Singh

Kevin & Damian

May 2018 61

bystander

Coral Bay Grand Prix Weekend Coral Bay Resort held a Grand Prix weekend party featuring Ferry Corsten at its premises.

Terence, Milano & Terence Joanna, Madan, Nick & Katy To view more images, scan the QR code

Ferry Corsten

Sharath, Suhail & Abhishek

Christina, Tania & Anastasia

Donna & Reine

Breezy & Shazy

Don, DJ Arp & DJ Soniya

Sian, Sarah & Mwai

Jason & Madonna

Jetson & Angela

Trish, Jonathan, Margaret & Susan

Farewell Party A farewell party was held for Paul Adams at Lanterns Adliya.

Paul Adams & Hussain

Nick, Katoki & Chris

62 May 2018

Ar & Viven

Sharon & Paul Adams

Kaye & Elton

Mohamed & Mo

Kelly & Sian

Jonathan & Trish

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadanhappenings FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

Enjoy a Blessed Ramadan Gergaoun certificate for their presence at this unique cultural event.

Private and Corporate Group Events The grand ballrooms at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay are the perfect choices to host both private and corporate Ramadan events. Up to 450 people can be comfortably accommodated in the Al Bahrain Ballroom, where the hotel’s catering team will create a memorable Iftar or Ghabga experience. For those looking for a more intimate gathering, the hotel offers a range of smaller, flexible spaces which can be adapted to specific requirements.

Each Ramadan buffet is tailored to suit the individual dietary preferences of guests, ensuring a personalised and memorable evening for all.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay promises an unrivalled array of dining experiences and seasonal getaway offers throughout The Holy Month.

Bay-View Lounge Guests can relax and enjoy a delicious range of refreshing beverages at Bay-View Lounge, including freshly brewed coffee, aromatic teas and alluring mocktails. The inviting lounge offers stunning views of Bahrain Bay and the Manama skyline, and is open from sunset to 1am throughout The Holy Month.

Ramadan is a time when families, friends and loved ones gather together to share special moments and create precious memories. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay brings delightful dining and getaway promotions to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan, providing guests with the finest Arabian hospitality.

Ramadan Tent for Iftars and Ghabgas The hotel’s Al Bahrain Ballroom will be transformed into a Ramadan Tent, creating a warm and inviting ambience where guests can experience a traditional Iftar or Ghabga feast.

Executive chef Kim Hyunggyu and pastry chef Imad Boukli have developed an outstanding menu filled with regional and international specialities, which truly has something for everyone to enjoy.

Traditional bateel khidri dates are offered to break the fast, with a range of Ramadan juices and inviting soup selections. Guests can sample hot and cold meze items, complemented by a sushi station and a salad bar offering a delectable selection of light bites. Explore the generous buffet set-ups and dedicated live cooking stations, showcasing a wide selection of traditional Bahraini fare as well as Lebanese, Indian, Turkish and global cuisine. A Moroccan tagine island, homemade pasta station and Asian section round up the offerings, together with a koshari station filled with an assortment of delicious condiments. Those with a sweet tooth are sure to enjoy the dessert buffet, which www.bahrainthismonth.com

includes an abundance of family favourites and a free-flowing chocolate fountain.

Iftar will be served from sunset to 8pm at BD26++, and Ghabga from 9pm-2am at BHD28++, from May 17 until June 15.

Gergaoun Event On the 15th day of Ramadan, the hotel will host a delightful Gergaoun celebration for children.

Kids can enjoy a range of fun activities, including a candy hunt, henna painting, arts and crafts, singing songs with a traditional band, and storytelling. The event will feature a Gergaoun fashion show, where the best outfit will be selected, with the winner taking home a complimentary lunch voucher for the whole family. Participants will also receive a

Eid Al Fitr Brunch For a gracious end to Ramadan, guests are invited to celebrate Eid Al Fitr in the warm ambience of Bahrain Bay Kitchen with a sumptuous brunch on June 16, 17 and 18.

Diners can enjoy an extensive buffet, with live cooking stations and a tempting array of desserts. Brunch is available for BD28++ with soft drinks, and BD38++ with an extended beverage package.

Eid Getaway Offers Advance Purchase: Guests will receive 25 per cent off on standard room rates when booking their stay at least 14 days before arrival. An extensive selection of complimentary resort activities is included in the room rate as standard.

Bahrain Getaway: Guests booking a two-night minimum stay can enjoy a 20 per cent discount on standard room rate. Discover ancient souqs and the renowned National Theatre while exploring the city, or simply unwind in the spa or in the hotel’s luxurious accommodation.

Call 17 115-000.

May 2018 63

bystander

Nasreen, Hussain Dawani & Zenat

Eleonora, Ana, Simonetta & Anna

Oranjefeest The Dutch community in Bahrain celebrated their King’s birthday with an Oranjefeest at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain.

Robert & Anne Via & Raymond

Han, Ana & Peter

Cristina, Andy & Juliana

Eileen & Titus

Abdul-Jabbar & Kathleen

Megan, Natasha, Sansi & Katarina

Reunion Party

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Bahrain Reunion of IHMCN hosted

by Lalit Kapur at Lanterns.

Lalit Kapur and IHMCN ‘76

Preeti, Sandeep & GS Brar

64 May 2018

Rajiv, Pradeep & Anand

Gurmeet, Usha & Shaguna

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ramadanhappenings INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

A Cherished Month Find the grace of Ramadan with InterContinental Regency Bahrain’s exceptional dining packages.

The InterContinental Regency Bahrain joins the festivities of The Holy Month with traditionally prepared authentic fare. The food is made exclusively by award-winning chefs of this renowned establishment to suit your tastes and preferences perfectly.

The property’s Rifaa Ballroom will be the hotspot of lavish culinary offerings for Iftar and Ghabga. The Iftar buffet is priced at BD15++ and will be laid out at sunset. Ghabga can be arranged upon prior request for groups and is priced at BD14++ per person.

The hotel welcomes group and corporate bookings with early bird special rates, giving guests a fantastic package put together for this special period of the Islamic calendar. The ‘Whole Ouzi and Appetizer’ package is good for up to 20 guests and costs BD150. The offer includes the Middle Eastern flavours of slow-cooked whole lamb on a bed of fragrant rice along with condiments, a variety of hot and cold meze, and everyone’s favourites – hummus, tabbouleh and babaganoush. The lavish culinary spread includes an Oriental vegetable salad, meat kibbeh, vegetable samosas and cheese sambousek. All the dishes are served with the essential condiments and Arabic flat bread.

The ‘Half Ouzi and Appetizer’ package comprises the same fare, but is good for up to 10 persons and costs BD80.

Chef Mohammed Samara

Call 17 208- 308, 17 208-313 or email convention.icbahrain@ihg.com or restres.icbahrain@ihg.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2018 65

ramadanhappenings SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL

The Taste of Tradition

Seeped in customs and rituals of The Holy Month, Ramadan at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel is an experience not to be missed.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel is a popular destination for Ramadan festivities, whether you’re a resident of the Kingdom or a fleeting visitor. Take a journey through the various outlets and taste its many delights throughout the day and night.

Iftar at Awali Ballroom Known for its complete Ramadan experience, Awali Ballroom boasts a traditional Arabic décor in a neutral colour palette. Palatial arches engraved with fine mosaic, carved mahogany wood panelling and a twin tent roof with stunning wrought iron chandeliers create a distinct and sophisticated ambience. Iftar dishes includes traditional Arabic dishes, international menu option, customary Arabic juices, a huge variety of cold meze and starters, a dates corner fit for the occasion, a crepe station and exciting desserts that guests love. Iftar buffet is served from sunset to 8.30pm, priced at BD16++ from Sunday to Wednesday, and BD18++ from Thursday to Saturday, for adults. Children from four to 12 years are charged BD8.500++ and below four years dine for free.

Ghabga at Al Safir Restaurant Ghabga means “gathering”, and in Bahrain it’s a time when family and friends get together after Iftar, and this can last until late morning.

The hotel will be serving a daily ghabga at Al Safir Restaurant from 9pm to 2am, priced at BD12.900++ for adults.

Al Safir Restaurant, which is an all-day-dining outlet, will be opened during daytime as well throughout Ramadan. It will serve a buffet breakfast from 6.30am to 10.30am, priced at BD10.500++; business lunch buffet from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, priced at BD9; and à la carte menu until 4pm.

Al Iwan A special à la carte menu will be offered throughout the day.

Espressamente Illy Café The café will be open daily from 4pm until midnight.

Call 17 533-533 for reservations and more information or book online at www.sheratonbahrain.com 66 May 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

RAMADA MANAMA CITY CENTRE

Arabic Delights For a fantastic Ramadan experience and great value for money, make your way to this popular hotel in the heart of Seef District.

The Ramadan tent at Reem Al Bawadi, Ramada Manama City Centre’s Middle Eastern restaurant, welcomes you to a warm and relaxed atmosphere after the call to prayer at sunset every day.

A scrumptious Iftar buffet laden with culinary gems awaits guests in a peaceful ambience. This Arabic-international inspired buffet presents the diversity of authentic Middle Eastern and international cuisine, with various interactive cooking stations. Diners can round off their meal with mouth-watering desserts – a fitting finish to a satiating meal.

Sports enthusiasts can catch up with the latest football matches and entertainment programmes on one of the many TV screens on the premises. Enjoy alluring Arabic music played by a live ensemble, while you take in the beautiful view.

Conveniently located close to City Centre Bahrain, the restaurant is easily accessible from the commercial district of the island as well as being close to several shopping and entertainment options.

The hotel is a well-know hub of hospitality, with well-equipped suites, a rooftop pool and a tranquil spa. Family-friendly interconnecting rooms are available. Exceptional and attentive service guarantees a memorable stay.

Call 17 104-040.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2018 67

ramadanhappenings SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Ramadan at Its Best Experience the splendour of The Holy Month at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa’s magnifique Ramadan tent.

With the blessed month of Ramadan upon us, Sofitel Bahrain is all set to offer you and your loved ones an unforgettable experience in synch with the traditions of The Holy Month.

Grander than ever, the award-winning Layali Al Zallaq tent returns this Ramadan with magnifique surprises for everyone. So, get ready for a truly magical wonderland by the sea under the trademark bright-starred ceiling.

Break your fast by the beautifully lit Arabian Gulf and enjoy a wide array of mouthwatering traditional Ramadan dishes, including Oriental salads, Foul and Balila, Manakeesh and Shawarma stations, Arabic bread and Falafel station, a mixed grill as well as traditional Bahraini dishes such as Machboos, Madrouba and Jareesh. There’s also a dedicated Moroccan section. But don’t forget to leave room for sweets, with delicacies such as

Turkish ice cream, the famous Umm Ali and plenty of your favourite desserts.

Before moving on to the Ghabga buffet, relax, smoke shisha by the beach and lose yourself while listening to the best of traditional Arabic music. There is plenty of entertainment and activities, especially catered for children’s enjoyment – creating Ramadan cards, pinwheels and others arts and crafts, puppet-making and face painting. Little girls can pamper themselves further with nail polishing and Arabic dance classes.

Before sunrise, the tent offers a more relaxing atmosphere, awaiting the new sunset to bring another special evening by the sea.

Iftar is served from sunset to 8.30pm, priced at BD19.500++ inclusive of Ramadan juices and beverages, and Ghabga from 10pm-1.30am (weekdays) and 10pm-2am (weekends), priced at BD19.500++ for food only.

Call 17 636-363.

Ali & Randa

Tom & Caron

Restaurant Opening Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa held a grand opening ceremony of its first 5-star Indian restaurant, Rivaaj, at its premises.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Martin, HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Mamta, Jalil Al Ansari, Babette & Mohammed

68 May 2018

Amid, Neyram, Mehdi & Ayush

Ahmed & Ahlam

Ebru

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Easter Egg Hunt The Jawad Business Group held its Easter Egg Hunt at the Jawad Dome.

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Oqbah & Rida

Adam Jawad & Ahmed Jawad

Nico & Noel

Deepty, Haseen & Payaam

Sam & Alex

Deondre, Nigel & Randilyn

Joe, Ameerah, Vanessa & Mildre

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Abdulla & Elena

Swapan, Zindagi, Raag & Digvee

Anees, Faisal, Farah, Fada & Fatema

Ahmed & Sophie

May 2018 69

bystander

Apu, Harsha, Arjun & Sonkinton

Batool

Bahrain for All The Bahrain for All festival was held at the Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park in Hidd.

Samia & Khalid

Laxshmi, Sancha & Sageeta

Abeer, Ahlam & Reem

Muna, Esky, Hiwot, Tikdem & Bennet

Sarah, Kratai, Ploy, Joy & Namrin

Osama

Hatem

Mahmood

Rodolphe

BBQ Night The Westin and Le MĂŠridien held an event to say thank you to its clients for their continued business and loyalty to the complex. The event was also an opportunity to showcase its BBQ theme night and Nasmat, the poolside venue.

A raffle took place with prizes ranging from weekend breaks in the UAE to signature treatments at Heavenly Spa by Westin.

Mohammad, Mariana & Zee Bassila

Aisling, Francis & Elaine

70 May 2018

To view more images, scan the QR code Anthony, Anna-Marie and Sascha

Ravi, Mazen & Kirsty

Raimond & Via

Sebastien, Karen & Zee

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadanhappenings THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Ramadan Kareem!

Chef Hany Mostafa

The master chef at Furn, The Westin City Centre Bahrain’s upscale restaurant, shares his musings about the magical month of Ramadan.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Chef Hany Mostafa, known for whipping up miracles in the kitchen, hails from a family of chefs. “I was taught the traditional way of cooking by my mother,” he says. “As a chef, I’m aiming to preserve the art of Arabic cuisine and ensuring that the popular Middle Eastern fare does not end up extinct in these changing times of fast food fads.” He is proud to be a chef and believes that cooking is not just a way to make a living, but an essential life skill.

Chef Hany says: “There are three things that are needed for a divine eating-out experience. First and foremost, the food must be fabulous. A close second and third are the ambience of the venue and the memories created by the occasion.

“Furn, which translates to ‘oven’, is our stunning restaurant with some very stylish elements. It has a clear view of the kitchen, allowing diners to watch talented chefs in creative action.”

This chic dining outlet welcomes one and all to enjoy an outstanding buffet for Iftar and Ghabga.

Mellow tunes of authentic Arabic music await you at Furn, so you can sit back and relax while you satisfy your taste buds with traditional Khaleeji cuisine.

The gorgeous décor at the eatery will lend an exotic Ramadan vibe to the atmosphere, making it a gastronomic paradise. Take your palate for a joyride starting at the delicious Shawarma station. There will also be a Tahina fountain, a large selection of freshly made Arabic salads and plenty of starters to whet the appetite. The menu is curated by a team of knowledgeable, experienced chefs under the able guidance of chef Hany. The idea behind the selection of dishes is to give guests a balanced mélange of

flavours, colours and textures of the unique delicacies that are enjoyed during The Holy Month.

No culinary spread during Ramadan is complete without Ouzi, and Furn will not disappoint with its creation of this quintessential dish. Guests can relish large cuts of lamb, slow-cooked on a bed of saffron rice. Take in the aromas as the tender slices of meat fall onto your plate – just divine.

Another dish to reckon with is the Sayadia – a rice dish cooked to perfection for four to five hours in a flavoursome fish stock before the Hammour is added.

The succulent morsels of Arabic mixed grills, Chicken Maklouba, Marshoush Ades, Fie Qataah, Machboos and Harees will also have you wanting more.

Additionally, indulge in an exhaustive variety of local and Turkish sweets, an array of refreshing Ramadan juices and Arabic coffee.

Call 17 171-441.

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ramadanhappenings

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

Cultural Fusion

The award-winning Al Areen Palace & Spa presents Qasr Al Sultan for the Ramadan and Eid season.

The new Qasr Al Sultan-themed tents at the leading luxury property seamlessly blend contemporary design with traditional Turkish elements, coupled with Middle Eastern and Bahraini influences, ensuring an exclusive cultural and culinary experience.

The premium brand promises an authentic backdrop of Turkish flair featuring festivities and a musical fusion of both heritages performed by a famed Turkish band. Add to this a wide selection of flavourful Arabic, Turkish and international cuisines and guests are assured a memorable Ramadan or Eid experience.

Throughout The Holy Month, Al Areen Palace & Spa will be offering various discounted deals.

The lavish Iftar buffet, which includes sweets, Ramadan juices, live cooking stations, live entertainment and a raffle draw on weekends, will be available on weekdays priced at BD16++ and BD18++ on weekends, while the Ghabga buffet is generously priced at BD15++ on weekdays and BD17++ on weekends.

For those seeking an escape from the city during this time of contemplation and fasting, 72 May 2018

guests can take advantage of the property’s stunning, private villas, each of which enjoys its own pool and courtyard area, at a cost of just BD140 per night, for a Desert Pool Villa for two including Iftar or Ghabga or breakfast.

Additional packages are: BD160++ for a Desert Pool Villa for two with Iftar or Ghabga or breakfast and a 30-minute massage treatment, or BD190++ for two in a Desert Pool Villa including Iftar or breakfast, in-villa barbecue and a 30-minute massage.

A stunning desert oasis, Al Areen Palace & Spa is home to the largest spa in the Middle East, blending Western and Eastern medicines, with the latest technologies, practised by a group of internationally certified health professionals. Unique in its approach, the ‘Live Your Life’ programmes encompass detox, re-energising and weight optimisation as well as various holistic remedies and beauty solutions.

Complimentary packages also include access to Al Areen Wildlife Park and Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park, Bahrain’s biggest water park.

And for those who choose to visit for Eid, there will be a family brunch, priced at BD17++, which includes Arabic and international dishes coupled with live cooking stations, entertainment, access to the pool, and a raffle draw at Qasr Al Sultan.

Call 17 845-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sharif & Thomas

Inter-Hotel Cricket Tournament The 7th Annual Inter-Hotel Cricket Tournament took place at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Dr Adel, Ricardo & Nadeem

Sumaya

JP Dantil & Radim

Hamad

Ryme

Hameed & Fares

Manas, Gailin, Desmond, Rawsan & Geeta

Carolina

Anna-Marie

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ramadanhappenings DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

Raising the Standard This year, the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa has stepped up the celebrations for The Holy Month, with a more lavish Iftar buffet and a beautiful Ramadan-themed décor.

The Al Fanar Ballroom of the newly refurbished Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa is all set to usher in Ramadan in style and sophistication.

Executive sous chef Younis Ramadhn, a Bahraini national who has been with the establishment for 11 years, is excited to oversee all the preparations. He is certain that guests will be bowled over with the plethora of culinary choices.

He says: “We have increased the variety and quantity of food for Iftar this year.

Guests can enjoy 30 to 35 types of salads.

For the first time, we will be having Indian-, Mexican- and Asian-themed stations every night.”

The spread is sure to have something for

everyone, besides crowd-pleasing Ramadan delicacies. “Typical Bahraini food such as Ouzi, Thareed, Harees, Kebab Bahraini and Shawarma will be laid out, in addition to other Arabic specialities,” adds chef Younis.

Beverages made especially for Ramadan, including Kamaridine and Karkade, will be part of six thirst-quenching drinks on offer.

As per chef Younis, the beverages will give the whole ambience more colour and vibrancy in the summer season.

The property can host large gatherings to accommodate up to 1,000 guests at the majestic Grand Ambassador Ballroom.

Ghabga nights can be arranged with prior booking, and guests can rest assured that the staff will go all out to make their event a great success. Group discounts are available, and the menu can be selected as per clients’ tastes and budget.

Call 17 531-666.

Tim, Abdul Rahman & Bert

Renovation Reception The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa held a corporate reception and announced the progress of its extensive and exclusive renovation project across its public areas as well as its guest rooms and suites.

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Lyudmila, Caroline, Kosta Kourotsidis & Stephanie

Salman, Steven & Tony

Management and guests with Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa

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May 2018 75

ramadanhappenings

THE K HOTEL

The Spirit of Togetherness Ramadan is all about celebrating togetherness and what better way than surrounded by loved ones as you savour your favourite traditional dishes at The K Hotel?

76 May 2018

A long day of fasting meets a fitting conclusion at one of Bahrain’s favourite venues, where you’ll find a variety of authentic regional treats. The Kolors Restaurant at The K Hotel offers a lavish Iftar buffet comprising traditional dishes along with Ramadan delicacies from across the region.

Bahraini ouzi, tabouleh, hummus, machboos, chicken molokhia, lamb tagine and koftabil laban are some of the treats on offer. The dessert buffet will also be packed with a variety of items to tantalise your taste buds and provide a fitting end to your meal. Choose from delicacies including Umm Ali, assorted baklava, kunafa and kallaj Ramadan – or even try them all!

The sundown buffet can be enjoyed from sunset up to 8.30pm for BD9.900++ per person. This offer includes Ramadan juices, coffee and tea, as per your choice. Children aged seven to 12 years eat at half price and those aged six and below dine for free.

The excitement does not stop here: each guest will be entered into a raffle draw to win a one-night stay at The K Hotel by filling out the guest satisfaction questionnaire. Winners will be announced at the end of every weekend.

Groups and corporate clientele can take advantage of the exceptional offers on banquet events, which include a fantastic menu with a complimentary venue at The K Hotel, as well as an outdoor catering service for all occasions.

Additionally, the hotel’s food and beverage culinary team provides decorating services for special events and gatherings. These can be customised to suit each customer’s individual needs, thus helping you create a memorable experience.

It may be new on the scene, but Kolors restaurant has already made an impression on the dining sector.

If you want a change from your usual lunch and dinner haunts, then head here over Eid day, when Kolors will be serving the lavish Eid Lunch Buffet for BD8.500++ per person from 12.30pm-4pm; and dinner buffet for BD10.500++ per person from 7pm-11pm, including a variety of live cooking stations and sweet Eid delights – make sure to save some room for the executive chef’s specials. Children aged six years and below eat for free; seven to 12 year olds dine at half price.

Every week throughout The Holy Month there is a chance to win a complimentary Iftar for two persons or one night stay at the hotel through a raffle draw; just drop your business card in the bowl near the counter and follow The K Hotel on social media for the winner announcement.

Stay connected and share your experience at The K, with free access to the ‘Fast Zone’ (high-speed Wi-Fi connection)!

Call 17 360 000 or visit www.thekhotel.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadanhappenings

MIAM BAKERY-CAFÉ & RESTAURANT

A Delectable Ramadan Affair Miam Bakery-Café & Restaurant captures the essence of The Holy Month by embracing the exceptional traditions and lifestyle throughout this auspicious period.

78 May 2018

Miam Bakery-Café & Restaurant, located in Galleria Mall, Zinj, brings you the taste of a timeless, yet contemporary, dining experience. Oozing with passion and charm, Miam dedicates itself to satisfying and exceeding the expectations of its patrons in a relaxing and unique ambience.

The establishment revives the meaning of ‘classic gastronomy’ and brings it to the 21st century with an up-to-date twist. The eatery sports vintage European motifs, wooden floors and timeless furnishings to give an air of sophistication and cosiness. The aromas wafting in from the bakery section play their part in whetting the appetite, while reinforcing a homely feel.

The beautiful outdoor setting gives customers the opportunity to savour a cup of brilliantly blended, aromatic coffee whilst overlooking the bustling area around them.

The food is filled with hearty goodness. It involves an intriguing mélange of handpicked ingredients that are prepared masterfully to satiate your palate. The famous old recipes are presented in an appealing manner, with an exciting pinch of modernity.

Moreover, the large selection of fresh, handmade breads produced at the in-house bakery are thoroughly relished and enjoyed by one and all.

Miam Bakery-Café & Restaurant brings you a special Ramadan experience and is delighted to be hosting its first Iftar and Ghabga buffet throughout The Holy Month.

The team in the kitchen has gone to great lengths in incorporating the characteristic elements of Ramadan, whilst maintaining a modern, fusion culinary outlook. The outlet’s ambience will be tastefully enriched with the spirit of The Holy Month, setting it apart. The bustling outdoor seating area will be transformed into a tent, designed for families and friends to gather at.

The Iftar meal commences at sunset and will be laid out until 8pm. It is priced at BD3.500 per person.

Ghabga follows from 8.30pm to 2am, and costs BD9.800 per person. Both are inclusive of water, juices, soft drinks, Arabic drinks, as well as Arabic tea and coffee.

A wide selection of Middle Eastern and international specialities will feature on the buffet along with the eatery’s signature fusion dishes. On the list are must-haves, like the beloved varieties of biryani and machboos, as well as crowd-pleasers such as lasagna and pasta. The spread includes a huge array of beverages, comprising traditional and exotic teas, Arabic coffee, flavourful mocktails, laban, and much more.

Join in this remarkable celebration with your loved ones and gratify your taste buds with the wonderfully diverse selection of dishes and beverages at Miam Bakery-Café & Restaurant.

Call 17 536-377. www.bahrainthismonth.com

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

Ramadan Flavours Throughout The Holy Month, the Crowne Plaza Bahrain is delighted to offer a unique location to celebrate the traditional festivities.

Celebrate the spirit of giving this Ramadan at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

Iftar The Holy Month is an excellent time for people to share traditional Ramadan generosity. In keeping with the tradition, Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s Iftar donates 500 fils to charity for every diner to enhance the Ramadan spirit.

“A relaxing Iftar has its own special rewards,”

says a hotel spokesperson. “But when you join us at Crowne Plaza Bahrain, we have something exceptional for you. In addition to the spirit of giving, the delicious flavours and relaxed ambience, we’re giving away daily and weekly rewards – from dinner vouchers to electronic goods.”

Held at the main dining restaurant, enjoy a lavish Iftar buffet with a selection of traditional Arabic specialities served daily at La Mosaique restaurant.

Why not treat yourself to a truly memorable Iftar this year? It could be more rewarding than you expected.

Ghabga Crowne Plaza Bahrain provides the perfect atmosphere with special menus that can be tailor-made for you to host your corporate or private Ghabga event.

“Held in our very own Conference Centre, we have created a plush ambience with specialised menus that can cater to your very own exclusive event, where parties of 30 to 1,000 persons may be accommodated in private rooms,” says a hotel spokesperson.

Call 17 531-122 or visit www.cp-bahrain.com for bookings and more information.

Didi, Biola, Jelena & Bernt

Beach Party The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain held a Race Day Beach Bash at the marina.

JP, Ashwathy, Sanesh & Kai

Ania & Danielle

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Carine & Raphaelle

Julia & Nello

Adriana & Yannis

Souraya & Leila

Radim, Vita & Seua

May 2018 79

ramadanhappenings

RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA

A Plethora of Choice The Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa has geared up to heartily welcome Ramadan and indulge patrons with great hospitality all through the festive period, and beyond.

80 May 2018

The entrance of the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa in Seef will be the enchanting pathway that will lure guests into Khaymat Mandolin, a grand indoor tent, to mark the festivities of The Holy Month. Guests are in for a terrific Middle Eastern experience – with a majestic ambience and a lavish spread of scrumptious food laid out for Iftar, followed by Ghabga.

The tent can seat 80 people indoors, with additional capacity of 40 seated in the adjacent glass-panelled, stylish shisha lounge. There is also a demarcated VIP area, where families and friends can enjoy their own private space.

The best gastronomic delights of this significant month will be laid out at Khaymat Mandolin, along with juices and mouth-watering sweets quintessential to the festivities. The indulgence of taste will be perfectly complemented by alluring Arabic tunes, to set the right mood for the evening.

The hotel welcomes corporates to host their Iftar or Ghabga soirées at the Acacia ballroom on the second floor of the property. The sophisticated venue will be decorated to replicate an exotic Arabian atmosphere, and the menu can be customised to accommodate a variety of tastes and budgets.

In addition, a satiating Suhoor meal can be arranged from 2.30am to sunrise. This package is available for large groups and prior booking is essential.

Rasoi, the property’s fine dining Indian restaurant, will be operational for breakfast, lunch and dinner

for those not observing the ritual fast throughout The Holy Month. The outlet is best known for its flavoursome curries and biryanis, tasty vegetarian fare, succulent appetisers and sinful desserts. The special promotion that Rasoi has on offer is just too good to resist, giving value for money that is probably hard to find elsewhere. Besides à la carte, diners can opt to order from a specially curated set menu, available for lunch and dinner, priced at only BD5 per person, or BD9 for two, inclusive of taxes.

The menu allows you to choose one soup from a choice of three, and one of six starters (three vegetarian and three non-vegetarian). One main course can be selected from four vegetarian and three non-vegetarian alternatives. Additionally, a dal (lentil preparation) and dessert can be ordered from the four respective options provided.

With names like Lahsooni Murg Tikka, Shahi Sabz Seekh, Dum Aloo Bhojpuri, Malabar Prawn Curry and Gulab e Gulkand on the cards, it is difficult to make a decision. The portions are just right for one or two diners, with unlimited portions of fragrant steamed rice, light and fluffy phulkas (flatbreads) and condiments offered.

So, be it the Ramadan revelries at Khaymat Mandolin or the enticing Indian cuisine at Rasoi, you’ll be glad you paid a visit.

Call 17 111-999. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadanhappenings MERCURE GRAND HOTEL SEEF

Exquisite Offerings Take delight in authentic traditions in style at the magnificent Al Bawadi Tent at the Mercure Grand Hotel Seef.

Celebrate The Holy Month of Ramadan at the famous Al Bawadi Tent on the rooftop of the Mercure Grand Hotel Seef, in association with the hotel’s Diamond Sponsor, Turkish Airlines.

Enjoy the widest selection of delicious Oriental and international dishes, delectable Ramadan juices, ice cream, beverages, flavoured shisha, games and more. Iftar begins from sunset to 8.30pm, priced at BD12++ per person and free for one child eight years and younger, while Ghabga is priced at BD12++ per person. Suhoor runs till 2am on weekdays, and costs BD7++ per person.

Evenings spent at the Al Bawadi Tent are truly a unique, authentic Middle Eastern experience, with a soothing ambience for friends and families to gather together in.

Enjoy Oriental music from a trio led by the

famous Egyptian singer Mohamed Al Toukhi, in addition to a wide variety of special cocktails and shisha flavours created by the team.

Feel the true essence of Ramadan while

enjoying splendid hospitality at the Al Bawadi Tent at the Mercure Grand Hotel Seef.

Call 17 584-400.

Basma & Melissa

Grace & Leo

Mother’s Day Brunch at Mercure Mercure Grand Hotel Seef held a Mother’s Day Brunch at Neyran Restaurant.

Rania, Salma, Ali & Yasser Bahaa

Faisal

Jonna, Clem & Zander

82 May 2018

Asmaa, Shihara, Aisha & Shamil

Malisa & Biwty

Majeed

Annabell

Matteo & Aksorm

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Renal Precautions During Ramadan Dr Nader Albert Hanna, nephrology consultant at Royal Bahrain Hospital, sheds light on the effects of fasting on those with kidney ailments.

Patients with illnesses are commonly exempt from fasting, a religious duty during The Holy Month of Ramadan. Many studies claim that patients may be able to fast when suffering from chronic kidney disease but these have typically applied to countries where temperatures differ significantly from the Middle East. Therefore, different physicians may not give the same advice.

Patients who have received kidney transplants and have a normal graft function can fast safely. The results of studies done on such patients have shown that no organs were rejected, nor were impairment of kidney functions observed.

In countries where Ramadan falls in summer, patients with nephrology ailments are at risk of suffering from dehydration and increased stone formation. They may experience symptoms that signify that the kidneys are not functioning well. Patients who undergo haemodialysis treatment may also develop increased potassium levels in the blood, and lower than normal amounts of sodium in the blood, during and after their period of fasting. Some also experience very high blood pressure.

There are a number of conditions that patients should be aware of, for which extra precautions should be taken during Ramadan. These include diabetes insipidus (a condition causing harmfully excessive urination and increased thirst), hypertension, acute infections, cardiovascular

Dr Nader Albert Hanna

disorders, liver disease, stomach ulcers, angina (chest pain caused by heart diseases), uncontrolled diabetes and postural hypotension.

For further inquiries on this matter, consult Dr Nader Albert Hanna at Royal Bahrain Hospital.

Call 17 246-800, WhatsApp on 32 181-810, book online at www. royalbahrainhospital.com or download the Royal Bahrain Hospital mobile app on iOS and Android devices.

Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner

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Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa hosted the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs dinner at its Italian restaurant, Fiamma.

Members at the dinner

Mehdi & Neyran

Wendy, Fady & Soumar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Betsy & Tim

Nicholas & Ali

Carmen & Gabriel

Gilles, Bella & Frank

Kim & Philippe

Amy & Margerete

May 2018 83

ramadanhappenings

Make Heads Turn AL RASHID GROUP

Centrepoint’s Ramadan 2018 collection brings dazzling, yet modest, glamour to the forefront for the young and the younger.

Centrepoint, one of the region’s largest retailers, encompasses four shopping concepts – Splash, Mothercare, Shoe Mart and Lifestyle. It is a sprawling fashion destination for an aspiring generation of shoppers.

The brand offers great value for money, with a stunning range of apparel and accessories for the whole family.

WARRANT A SECOND LOOK This season’s ladies’ collection at Splash is pegged around the theme ‘Desert of Arabia’. It boasts a liberal use of metallic and other interesting finishes – from polished to brushed and perforated styles.

The range comprises items that offer versatility, easily transforming from day to evening wear. The apparel, created especially for the festive season, is highlighted with sequins, crystals and embroidery in hues of dusty rose, champagne, black and off-white.

Flowing kaftans, glamorous sequined evening dresses, metallic sheath dresses and beautiful, bejewelled tops will address your Iftar outings during The Holy Month. For a more refined, feminine appearance, the collection introduces ruffles and lace to tops and dresses, as well as to classy trousers and overalls.

To complete your look, Shoe Mart has a range of footwear and handbags to complement your outfit – from highly wearable brown and nude pink shades, through to multicoloured and glitter finishes that are apt for summer.

TRENDY TOTS AND TEENS Mothercare is taking kids out on a rollercoaster fashion ride this Ramadan. A combination of muted pastels and bright colours dominate the season for boys and girls, lending a dose of cheerfulness.

The tasteful girls’ collection includes floral patterns, lace, ruffles and embroidery in wearable styles, perfect for all occasions. Dress up your little princess in the most elegant of fashions, and watch her confidence blossom.

Boys will look dashing with Centrepoint’s Ramadan 2018 compilation.

The ruling shades are white, off-white, nude brown, yellow, sky blue, blue and grey. The collection is rich, with coloured stripes on plackets, stitch details on buttons, cross stitches, stripe sets, funky ties and suspenders.

TO SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE If you’re looking for classy handbags, look no further. Lifestyle brings you a sophisticated, eye-catching selection of sparkly, embellished clutches – a perfect choice for a Ramadan gathering.

When it comes to make-up, Lifestyle offers a range of dark eyeliners, perfectly matched with dewy eyeshadow colours. Team it up with bold lipstick for a flawless look, most suited for Ramadan evenings.

The Centrepoint Ramadan collection will be available in all stores in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Lebanon from May 5.

Visit www.centrepointstores.com 84 May 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Cocktail Reception Gallery 21 hosted an exclusive menu-tasting and cocktail reception with in-house chef Owen Stewart .

Yasser & Soufiane

To view more images, scan the QR code Daniel & Julia

Kat, Joanna & Randa

Bahrain Hotel launched its Thai Street Food Festival at with exclusive media Thai Street Food Festival Sheraton dinner at Soie restaurant prepared by chef Arnan Sinsanwit and chef Supparat.

Irina

To view more images, scan the QR code

Management and staff at the event

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2018 85

DINING

this month Beef Tenderloin ‘Tagliata’

Black Lemon Marinated Rack of Lamb

Focacia

Hamachi

The Home of Takeaway, p88

Executive chef Owen Stewart

A Verdant Wonder BEHNAZ SANJANA Hidden Gems in Bahrain, p89

Look Who’s in Town, p90

Relax with Jazz, p91

View more info online

86 May 2018

With excellent gastronomy at surprisingly reasonable prices, Gallery 21 restaurant is an aesthetically pleasing dining spot.

The foyer of the Gallery 21 complex has all the trappings of a swanky venue in the midst of the culinary hub, Adliya – unusual furniture, nouveau chic colours and floor patterns that take you to the Mediterranean. But as you enter the restaurant, you’ll find yourself in a place unlike any other. The sight of the floor-to-ceiling garden wall, rife with myriad shades of green (and a smattering of purple) foliage is an arresting one. Pedestalled statues make imposing centerpieces, and white Grecian columns stand out against the indoor greenery.

As we chomped on delicious focacia and pored over the menu, the clouds played with us through the sunroof, casting a shadow for a few seconds to give a rainforest-like feel. They floated away soon enough to restore the atrium’s bright, airy ambience. The restaurant’s repertoire began with a prudent assortment of Ceviche; I opted for the Hamachi. Bitesized cubes of well-cured Japanese Amberjack came tossed with cilantro, scallions, tomato, red pepper juliennes and a hint of garlic – a good start to the meal.

The unusually soft-textured Burrata Cheese (which is my new favourite dairy treat) went perfectly well with red and green peppered tomatoes. The basil olive oil hiding underneath gave it an intriguing flavour kick.

For hot starters, I’m glad I agreed to my colleague’s choice – Eggplant Parmigiana. Layers of delicately fried aubergine slices, basil and parmesan cheese all drenched in a robust tomato sauce, were surrounded by a moss green moat of basil oil. The combination of flavours is so delightful, hardcore carnivores won’t even miss the meat.

Main course number one – Black Lemon Marinated

Rack of Lamb came with a lacy, red, savoury tuile delicately tucked between two gloriously grilled cutlets. An incision revealed a juicy blush interior, perfectly complemented by browned button mushroom, microgreens and saffron risotto (which was so well made, I could eat it for three square meals a day).

This was followed by Beef Tenderloin ‘Tagliata’ – mini slices of the tenderest beef were accompanied by a vintage balsamic reduction, generously dressed with rocket salad, olives and shards of parmesan. The intensely potent sundried tomatoes transported me straight to the rooftops under the Italian sun.

Penne Arrabbiata lived up to its global popularity for being pasta cooked just to the right level of al dente, coated in a bright orange-red sauce, garnished with olives and basil. Small pieces of cheesy tuiles lent the dish a chic Gallery 21 feel.

The menu has a whole section dedicated to afterdinner beverages, both hot and cold, but we made a beeline for dessert. I opted for the Vanilla Crèam Meringue Cake, and my colleague went for the Chocolate Mousse. My vanilla cake was blanketed with creamy meringue, torched just until golden brown at the foamy peaks. The light layers of sponge were interspersed with delicate custard. My dining companion’s decadent creation was a rich chocolate crème anglaise, sandwiched between a sweet, dark chocolate cake base and tart raspberry jelly, surrounded by a vibrant berry coulis.

The prices on the menu have recently been revised to give diners a true fine-dining experience that’s easy on the pocket. Given the high standards of ingredients, preparation and presentation of the food, the prices will take you by surprise, as will the unique ambience.

No wonder the venue is in such demand to host small weddings and celebrate important milestones. Till we meet again, little enchanted garden!

Call 17 711-600. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining

TALABAT

Food at Your Fingertips As a company that has enabled food to reach you wherever you are, Talabat is intent on making a positive difference to people’s lives.

88 May 2018

Craving Chinese for dinner tonight? Or have the hunger pangs hit in the middle of a busy day at work?

No problem. Talabat is here to satisfy your appetite in a jiffy. Browse menus from an enormous inventory of restaurants to get freshly made food with just a few clicks on the Internet or on the Talabat mobile app.

Customer convenience is one of the top priorities for this pioneering name in the world’s online food ordering industry that operates 24/7 to ensure a convenient and hassle-free ordering experience.

Payment can be made securely online using your debit or credit card, or with cash on delivery.

Proud to have its roots in the Middle East, Talabat has been leading the online delivery service since 2004, with over 400 restaurant partners in Bahrain.

The online portal offers a variety of cuisines from international and local restaurants to pick from in Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Oman and Jordan.

The brand is continuously growing and adapting to new trends to meet its customers’ expectations. Last month, Talabat launched a free delivery campaign to all restaurants associated with Talabat Go (the company’s delivery service), as well as a free delivery campaign with McDonald’s.

The company’s arm in Bahrain took part in an outdoor activity at the popular Trib Fest, as a way to engage with the island’s expatriate community.

Visitors at the much-loved music festival enjoyed an exciting game and were awarded for participation, irrespective of how they fared, with the main rule of play being – ‘everyone wins with Talabat’.

The organisation has also supported an environmental initiative by students from a private school in Bahrain. The purpose is to raise awareness about conservation of the environment and to encourage one and all to take steps to preserve the planet for many generations to come.

Going forward, Talabat will also cater to the community’s needs during Ramadan by sending out Iftar boxes for the public and those in need. Not only that, the brand will also celebrate The Holy Month with discounted offers of up to 50 per cent from selected restaurants.

To win exciting competitions, stay updated with activities and promotions from Talabat through its social media channels; you might just be the next big winner!

Follow @talabatbh on Instagram. www.bahrainthismonth.com

HIDDEN GEMS IN BAHRAIN

ARCHAEOLOGIES OF GREEN BAHRAIN PAVILION

by BILL GRIEVE

S

hadowed by Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa House in Muharraq, guarded by the picturesque twin towers of the adjacent mosque, Archaeologies of Green Bahrain Pavilion is a modern, high-walled sanctuary of botanical gardens in ornate pristine surroundings.

Inside this contemporary cultural botanical ‘pit-stop’ is a quaint picturesque café restaurant with abundant seating in a small 10-garden paradise of fruit-bearing trees and archaeological artefacts portraying a long tradition of agriculture – the source of many myths about Bahrain being the Garden of Eden and land of a million palms.

Visitors are served by a traditional waiter who recites food and beverages offered by heart – priced very realistically. From karak tea to fresh avocado sandwiches, traditional sweets to chicken machboos, and conventional

Western-style foods – something for everybody. If it’s not mentioned – ask. The host’s entrepreneurial flair is surprising.

Walk around – ask nicely, you may be allowed into the VIP area, where momentarily you will be ‘centre stage’ in the air-conditioned tastefully decorated, quaint modern lounge.

A gentle place of quiet thoughts, like a Japanese garden – a place of beauty provided by the host Her Excellency Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa.

A must-do Muharraq ‘cultural houses tour’ refreshment stop.

Open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Call 17 298-777.

Jacqui, Ellie & Tim

Taylor, Erin & Morgan

Nikolas & Pani

Rommel, Jennifer & Diego

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

Jason, Triona, Alice & Sarah

Shalini & Phil

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jacky & Raul

Anesh & Juanita

Niall & Anna

Aleedys & Jose

May 2018 89

tablehopping

ROYAL CULINARY TRADITIONS

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa has opened its first fivestar Indian restaurant, Rivaaj. The outlet symbolises the rich Indian royal heritage and cuisine, offering an experience that transcends all boundaries. It takes you back to a time where a unique blend of sophistication, taste and ambience existed in perfect harmony.

Marvel at the interiors of lush hardwood carvings with distinctive and regal colour palettes, as you immerse yourself in an inimitable gastronomic affair that leaves a lasting impression.

This exotic gourmet offering is spearheaded by the renowned epicurean chef, Javed Qureshi, who comes from the well-known Qureshi lineage that has specialised in and mastered the art of Hyderabadi and North Indian cuisines for generations. Indulge in an authentic and meticulously prepared Indian culinary experience with a royal flair that will conquer your appetite.

Call 17 636-363.

ALL ABOUT MIXOLOGY

Bahrain’s award-winning contemporary dining and entertainment venue, Meisei, has launched an exclusive Mixology lounge concept, A.K.A. by Meisei. Located on the first floor of the restaurant, A.K.A. is comprises a Dining Area, the A.K.A Lounge and the Lantern Room.

The management of Remza Investment Company identified a gap in the market for such a concept after reviewing the latest market trends worldwide and researching the new offers in cities like London and New York. The aim was to develop a space where guests can enjoy and relax while immersed in a playful avant-garde, design luxury that offers unique mixology creations with cutting-edge ingredients.

Start your evening at A.K.A. central bar, exploring the mixology menu created by head mixologist and presented in exclusive glassware.

At the A.K.A. Dining Area, the art of modern Japanese fusion comes alive with the flow of contemporary Asian fusion dishes created by chef Michael Sang-Kyu Lee. The Lantern Room features niche, hand-crafted wood and silk Oriental lanterns and caters to large group bookings.

Call 17 007-770.

90 May 2018

LOOK WHO’S IN TOWN One of the much-anticipated visits of the month is here, as Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia, the master of modern Indian cooking, returns to Bahrain from May 3 to May 7.

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s fine-dining restaurant, Rasoi

by Vineet, will be hosting an indulgent dinner with a five-course menu specially crafted by chef Vineet, paired carefully with that perfect grape. The dinner will be hosted on May 3, priced at BD35++ per person.

On May 5, sharpen your cooking skills with a Master Class hosted by chef Vineet himself, and enjoy a memorable opportunity of sharing a table over lunch with the culinary maestro. The session costs BD39 per person, inclusive of lunch.

There are limited seats for both events. Make your reservations in advance to avoid disappointment.

Call 17 713-000.

A GREAT WEEKEND

Make the most of the island’s weather at Bahrain Bay Kitchen’s International Friday Spring Fair Brunch at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Every Friday until May 11, Bahrain Bay Kitchen’s garden will be transformed into a welcoming hive of activity between 1pm and 4pm. Expect fun, excitement, vivacious colours, floral fragrances and comfortable climes. Lounge in the open air while indulging in new seasonally-influenced dishes.

Children can take delight in plentiful fair-style games and activities. Discover pony rides, Ping-Pong, darts and train rides. Savour excellent fare, sip on a refreshing iced tea, chilled milkshake or your desired beverage throughout the laidback afternoon. The Spring Fair Brunch is a nod to everything that inspires weekend bliss and is priced at BD25++ inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages, or BD35++ inclusive of selected beverages. It runs from 1pm to 4pm.

Call 17 115-500. www.bahrainthismonth.com

HELLO BELGIUM Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain will be serving culinary delights of Brussels right here on the island, until May 6. Savour the exceptional taste of flavoursome mussels in a popular Belgian dish – moules-frites – which comprises fresh mussels and crispy, chunky fries.

Belgian waffles and exclusive Belgian brews will also be on offer, served up in a classically European setting.

The promotion runs daily at the Flamingo Bar and Poolside Terrace, and on Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday at Silk’s restaurant. This extravagant experience is priced at BD11 per pot (500 grams of mussels).

Call 17 460-017.

A HEARTY WORKING LUNCH

Baharat, which means ‘spices’, is the renowned restaurant at the Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain, known for the fantastic food that it serves. The eatery hosts a Business Lunch from Sunday to Thursday (excluding the days of Ramadan), from 12.30pm to 3pm. Guests can enjoy a selection of Middle Eastern and Indian fusion cuisine inspired by the restaurant’s name. The food is prepared in an open kitchen, and the concept features a tandoor oven and an indoor grill. The full meal costs BD12++. The Soup and Salad Buffet is priced at BD5.500++. Kids aged six to 12 dine at half price.

Call 17 171-144.

RELAX WITH JAZZ Celebrate the last weekend before Ramadan with an amusing jazz performance at ART Rotana’s Friday Brunch, at Choices’ terrace on May 11, from 12.30pm to 4pm. Guests can enjoy the amazing view of the Marina from the comfort of their own chairs. The enchanted garden-themed brunch features a remarkable selection of dishes from all around the world. In addition to the vast array of superb live cooking stations, there is a one-of-a-kind grape section where you can sample premium grapes and other drinks. There’s even a kids’ club to keep the little ones entertained. The brunch is priced at BD34 including house beverages, or BD20 with soft drinks.

Kids aged six to 12 years are charged BD10 and those below six years dine for free.

Call 16 000-111.

NEW IN TOWN

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Melenzane, a new Italian dining concept, has recently been launched in Bahrain. The modern-chic restaurant, boasting a contemporary approach to Italian cuisine, has opened its doors to guests at The Avenues – Bahrain.

It is the brainchild of two Kuwaiti entrepreneurs, who brought the idea to life after being inspired by a busy restaurant in Paris and their desire to replicate its success.

The first branch was opened in Kuwait in 2009, followed by the successful launch of eight other branches in Kuwait and the GCC, including Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar, with Bahrain becoming the latest addition to the portfolio.

Distinctive in both flavours and setting, Melenzane features an inspiring menu with highly creative dishes tailored to suit every palate, designed by a team of experts. The restaurant prides itself on its excellent customer service and its modern twist on the Italian dining experience.

Follow @melenzanebr on Instagram.

When? Every Wednesday, until Ramadan Event? Hubbly-Bubbly Wednesdays Venue? Tapas, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Select your favourite flavoured shisha when ordering from a delectable set menu.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? Every Wednesday, until Ramadan Event? BBQ Night Venue? Baharat, Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain A stylish yet rustic experience for BD18 including soft drinks and water, or BD24 including selected free-flow beverages.

E Call 17 171-144.

When? Every Friday, until May 11 Event? Friday Brunch Venue? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Enjoy a sumptuous indoor buffet and live cooking stations with complimentary access to the pool for BD34 inclusive of selected drinks.

E Call 17 531-666.

When? Every Friday, until Ramadan Event? Slow Roast Themed Friday Brunch Venue? Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana An experience of taste and tenderness like no other from BD18++ per person.

E Call 13 119-999.

When? Ongoing to May 15 Event? Business Lunch Venue? Wok Station, Seef Enjoy a three-course lunch for BD3.800 from noon to 3pm from Sunday to Thursday.

E Call 77 571-571.

When? May 1-15 Event? Margarita Fiesta & Muchos Margarita Venue? Margarita Mexicana, Gulf Hotel Bahrain Enjoy half price on traditional margaritas on weekdays.

Indulge in unlimited traditional and flavoured margaritas every Thursday and Friday for BD16++.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? Throughout Ramadan Event? Breakfast and Lunch Venue? re/ Asian Cuisine, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Guests may enjoy à la carte breakfast from 7am to 10am and à la carte lunch from noon to 3pm. The outlet will be closed for dinner.

E Call 17 115-046.

May 2018 91

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Pearlescent Elegance Misaki introduces Moon River, a collection where the singular beauty of pearls is highlighted by jewellery with fluid, pure and majestic lines. Rarity, purity, eternity and elegance are all virtues attributed to pearls, the only ‘gem’ which has fascinated mankind since the dawn of time. Misaki pays tribute to it with its masterpieces of contemporary design.

Available at A La Mode outlets.

Ramadan Exclusive Michael Kors announces a special curation of glamorous clothes and accessories in celebration of Ramadan. The capsule collection features 19 MICHAEL Michael Kors pieces, including six handbag styles that are exclusive to the Middle East during The Holy Month.

Available at Michael Kors, City Centre Bahrain.

Iconic Style Update your Ramadan wardrobe with these choice pieces from Tory Burch. This cotton Stephanie Tunic features scalloped embroidery and folk-inspired ribbon borders that liven up the effortless shape. Accessorise with exotic leather clutch or silk kaleidoscope headband.

Available at Tory Burch, City Centre Bahrain.

Dive into Freshness

Newbie in Town The latest summer collection from Orsay will have you running to its newly opened store. With a traveller’s spirit, the line features airy, feminine styles and exotic prints. Oriental inspiration translates to Middle Eastern elements seasoned with warm red and brown hues, seen in colourful dresses and floral jumpsuits.

Available at Orsay, City Centre Bahrain.

92 May 2018

Refresh your skincare regime with L’OCCITANE’s new Aqua Réotier collection and let your skin soak up this fresh line-up of water-based products. They’re all formulated with calcium-rich water of Provence’s Réotier Spring, to lock in moisture for powerful hydration that lasts all day long.

Available at L’OCCITANE, City Centre Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

JAWAD GROUP

A Taste of Morocco Visit FES518, the new event space beside the Jawad Dome, for a stunning glimpse of Moroccan splendour.

Walking through the door of FES518, named for the Moroccan city and the Bahrain block number, it would be easy to imagine yourself in a fairy tale.

Expansive tiled floors stretch away beneath a central atrium in which hangs a stunning Moroccan brass lamp. And abundance of further lamps are suspended from gorgeous ceilings which feature intricate plasterwork and wood carvings.

Classic blue and white tiles adorn the many pillars, while calligraphy turns wall nooks into interesting display spaces. Ornate, traditional doors lead off the main space revealing hidden rooms and a staircase leading to the equally impressive upper floor.

The brainchild of Faisal Jawad, FES518 was 10 years in the building with interior and exterior elements being transported from Morocco and assembled on the ground in Bahrain.

And it’s now open for public viewing and for use as an extremely impressive event space capable of holding between 150 and 200 people, depending on the seating arrangements and event requirements. It’s planned to open the space for gatherings such as TED talks, corporate training sessions, private dining, weddings and art exhibitions.

FES518 is also available for Ramadan Iftars and Ghabgas.

Call Sophia Jawad 36 326-666.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2018 93

marketplace BERLITZ

Learning the Lingo Berlitz is your one-stop solution to any language, so broaden your horizon and discover your potential.

Berlitz offers premium and effective language training for adults as well as language, intercultural and business solutions for corporate clients. With 140 years of experience, Berlitz has helped millions of people around the world to succeed in a global environment.

One such initiative is the Business English Workshops that the centre offers. This goaloriented lively training is great for corporates as it can help your employees progress faster and be more confident in a business environment. This programme will develop a wide range of ‘Business English’ skills covering areas as diverse as formal report writing topics, presentation skills and sales negotiation skills.

It’s effective language training for all employees who want to master business-

related topics in English in the shortest possible time anywhere in Bahrain. Choose from the comprehensive range of workshops, which are adapted according to the participants’ previous knowledge, and includes compact training over two days with agreed course content, with four to eight participants in each workshop.

You can also take a free placement test with Berlitz, which is designed to check your

vocabulary, grammar, listening and reading comprehension scores based on your language proficiency level on the Berlitz scale.

Trial lessons are offered for English, French, Italian, Spanish, German and Arabic at the Budaiya and Adliya branches.

Call Adliya branch on 17 827-847 and Budaiya on 17 694-233.

Media Mocktail The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain hosted its second media mocktail with a meet and greet with Michelin-starred chef Oliver Glowig and tasting of its new food spring menu.

Store Opening Orsay, the German fashion brand, launched its first store in Bahrain at City Centre Bahrain.

Chef Alfonso Ferraioli To view more images, scan the QR code

Carol, chef Oliver & Amanda

Christine, Romana, Khawla & Shaima Jean-Paul Dantil

Walton & Amira

94 May 2018

Mary & Lana

Radim, Maciej, Carol & Soufiane

Razan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

FARHAT INTERNATIONAL TOURS & TRAVELS

A New Cruising Experience Farhat International Tours & Travels can arrange a memorable holiday for you aboard the marvellous Norwegian Bliss.

Discover Norwegian Bliss, the first cruise ship custom-built with two observation lounges, perfect for whale watching in Alaska or enjoying sunsets in the Caribbean Sea. Another first-at-sea experience on this mammoth craft is the thrilling double-loop waterslide, going 11-feet over the side of the ship and 159-feet above the ocean, in a transparent tube.

The vessel delights guests with 29 dining options, including an authentic Texas Smokehouse restaurant, a two-level electric-car race track, exciting nightlife, musical shows and activities spanning the entire top deck, as well as unique hull art which features humpback whales.

Norwegian Bliss offers guests freedom and flexibility, with a wide variety of accommodation, including luxurious suites in The Haven by Norwegian, studio staterooms with virtual ocean views for solo travellers, and new connecting staterooms ideal for groups and families.

From May 2018, she will sail seven-day Alaskan cruises each Saturday from Seattle, followed by Caribbean itineraries from September 2018 onwards.

Norwegian Cruise Line invites guests to explore the world on one of its 17 freestyle cruising ships, with interesting itineraries in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Hawaii, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Canada and New England, Panama Canal, Alaska, Asia, Australia and

New Zealand. Recently, the line was named ‘Europe’s Leading Cruise Line’ for the ninth consecutive year, ‘Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Line’ for the fourth time, and ‘World’s Leading Large Ship Cruise Line’ for the fifth year by the World Travel Awards.

Contact Farhat International Tours & Travel to plan a complete vacation package that perfectly suits your needs.

Call 17 216-411 or email cruise@farhat-tours.com

www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2018 95

marketplace

Dr Sanjay Kumar

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Treating a Surgical Emergency Dr Sanjay Kumar, orthopaedic surgery specialist at Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH), explains advanced fracture management for open fractures and trauma.

What is an open fracture?

Fractures where the broken bone protrudes through the skin or communicates with a wound are termed ‘open’ or compound fractures. Exposure of the fracture to the external environment produces local contamination and increases the risk of significant infection. Open fractures are considered a surgical emergency.

Are all open fractures the same?

The severity of open fractures can vary significantly.

The degree of injury and complexity of the treatment is influenced by a series of factors such as: • Energy of injury (height of fall, speed of car accident).

• Degree of contamination (soil, broken glass, stagnant water).

• Degree of injury to the soft tissues (crushed/ avulsed – where the tissue is pulled away from its normal anchor).

• Severity of the fracture pattern (number of bony fragments).

• Any injury to blood vessels.

Open fractures are split into different categories depending on the above factors (known as Gustilo classification). This rating system rapidly describes the degree of injury, risk of complications and need for plastic surgery and vascular surgery intervention to save the extremity.

How are open fractures treated?

The initial evaluation and treatment of open fractures is best performed at a centre equipped for the task, such as BSH. These fractures are often associated with motor vehicle accidents, industrial accidents,

96 May 2018

falls and gunshot wounds. Up to one third of individuals will have other life-threatening injuries along with the complicated fracture.

Following initial stabilisation and a thorough search for additional injuries, an individual with an open fracture will receive tetanus prophylaxis, intravenous antibiotics and a temporary splint. Open fractures are considered a surgical emergency. Every effort is made to obtain formal surgical treatment in a timely fashion to reduce the risk of infection.

In the operating room, the surgeon will remove debris, foreign bodies, soil, dead soft tissue and loose fragments of bone – this is known as surgical debridement. The wound and fracture are washed with large volumes of sterile fluid, often containing antibiotics.

After decontaminating the wound, the orthopaedic surgeon will stabilise the fracture, which can be achieved via internal methods with plates/rods or with an external frame made of a series of wires, pins and tubes. If the associated wound is small it will be closed with sutures and the patient will receive intravenous antibiotics.

What happens if large areas of skin and muscle are damaged or missing?

After thorough cleansing and fracture stabilisation, the surgeon may be left with a large, complex wound that cannot be directly brought together with sutures.

Plastic surgery techniques will be required to close or cover the wound immediately after fracture fixation or later once the wound is clean.

Call 17 812-222 or email sanjay.kumar@bsh.com.bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplacebusinessbites

Cash Dividend Approved The shareholders of Bahrain Cinema Company (Cineco) approved the distribution of a cash dividend of 50 per cent of the paid-up capital, the equivalent of 50 fils per share equivalent to BD3,958,185 proposed by the board following the approval of the Central Bank of Bahrain.

The announcement was made during the Annual General Meeting.

The company’s net profit reported for the financial year ended December 31, 2017 is BD34.70 million as compared to BD4.87 million reported during the financial year ended December 31, 2016.

Making An Impression The island’s newest hotel, Jumeirah Royal Saray, is inspired by the homes of Arabian royalty. From the stunning marble lobby to the location, guests are transported into a world of richness and attention to detail.

Featuring 174 stunning rooms, as well as 10 luxurious summerhouses and four Royal Residences, which open before the end of the year, the resort takes its inspiration from the historical royal houses of Bahrain and traditional summerhouses, which are rich with artistic wooden carvings.

The Palm Lounge all-day-dining restaurant overlooks turquoise blue waters and serves the finest coffee by Colombian baristas, the finest French pastries and world-class cuisine. Further restaurants and the property’s spa will open later in the year.

An Island Resort Experience

The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is set to be a complete island resort with the addition of its own beach.

Curving along the private island’s sun-drenched southern shore, the 160-metre expanse of pristine white sand is the ideal retreat for all the family.

In addition to a dedicated play area where children can enjoy building sandcastles, parents and couples can look forward to a quieter zone, providing a tranquil haven to lounge in.

Food will be served directly on the beach, and after dark, the new outdoor space will transform into a vibrant venue hosting torch-lit events.

Set to open by this summer, The Four Seasons Beach will welcome hotel guests and spa members throughout the day at no additional charge.

A New Man For a New Vision

Authorised Sponsor Appointed Bahrain Bourse (BHB) and Almoayed Chambers signed an agreement to appoint Almoayed Chambers as an authorised sponsor on Bahrain Investment Market (BIM), an innovative equity market for growth companies in Bahrain and the wider MENA region. The agreement was signed by the chief executive officer of Bahrain Bourse, Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa and the www.bahrainthismonth.com

chairman of Almoayed Chambers, Aymen Tawfeeq Almoayed.

Shaikh Khalifa says: “The partnership with Almoayed Chambers supports Bahrain Bourse’s efforts to encourage and facilitate the listing of companies on Bahrain Investment Market, and increases the options available for prospective companies interested in listing on this market.”

Tenmou announced the appointment of Nawaf Mohammed Al Kooheji as its chief executive officer. The strategic move was made in light of the company’s new vision to support the growth of the local economy by focusing on innovative investment opportunities and creating new partnerships and collaborations with key investors.

He says: “I look forward to continuing to advance my professional career in this pivotal position. I am excited at the prospect of driving the new stage of Tenmou’s journey. I would also like to assert my commitment to the company’s strategy to provide support to entrepreneurs in Bahrain through the implementation of value-added projects, which will create job opportunities, drive progress and lead to the growth of the national economy.”

May 2018 97

travel

A SERENE CONNECTION Faye Sharabi shares her experience with Sri Lankan Airlines and her delightful trip to three exotic destinations.

Enjoy the waves of the Indian Ocean

Bicycling and the Maldives: not perhaps the most obvious of combinations. Who would have thought these exotic islands had this in store for me? Usually we think of beach huts and crystal-clear waters stretching into infinity, but this was a trip with a difference.

An opportunity to travel to the Maldives, Sri Lanka and Thailand with trustworthy and efficient Sri Lankan Airlines was something not to be missed. The four-hour flight from Bahrain to Colombo was on time to the easily reached destination. Then a connection on to the Maldives for one and a half hours and you are on the island of Gan. Being able to travel with Bahraini, Indian and Sri Lankan nationals (all residing in Bahrain and equally up for the challenge) only added to the fun and excitement of the journey. Cycling in the Maldives is an instant de-stresser: instead of cars honking their horns and emitting exhaust fumes, I was surrounded by tropical beauty and the sound of the waves in stereo. The tarmac and traffic was replaced by simple roads worn down by the daily rhythms of the locals.

The five-and-a-half-hour flight from Bahrain (via Colombo) to the Maldives passes easily with attentive stewards and good company. Sri Lankan Airlines is the only international airline to land in Gan, so this is a unique opportunity to see a hidden treasure. Stepping out of the 98 May 2018

Bike to your special beach

Try to let the fish tickle your feet!

Walk from your villa to the beach

The water villas in Gan, Maldives

two-gate airport we looked straight onto the beautiful water of the Maldives, before taking a speedy and entertaining boat taxi to Canareef Resort.

There we were met by the green, quiet beauty of the island and the serenity of our villas. It really is a different world out here and the

cares of day-to-day life fall away like autumn leaves. The walk from the bedroom to the beach was practically non-existent, and bicycles lay at our doorstep for our convenience. Since there are no cars, either bicycle or a small open bus will take you where you want to go. Riding into the local village and www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fly Sri Lankan Airlines

experiencing their simple way of life is something not to be missed. What a treat! Of course, one can also bike to the beach and have a swim in the blue-turquoise water with its white-sand beaches. The Maldives has an average year-round temperature of 27 to 30 degrees Celsius, making the water temperature always inviting. There are many activities at your disposal but seeing the island on a bike was what I loved.

A short flight from the Maldives to Colombo and a bus ride to Centara Ceysands in Aluthgama was another splendid journey and a different experience from the Maldives. Our resort hotel was on the Indian Ocean with a marvellous view. Again, this is a perfect climate for a wave-jumping experience. It was a joy to understand the importance Sri Lanka places on its environment – enmeshed completely into everyday life. We visited Kosgoda turtle hatchery and had a Madu River boat ride. We rode through the preserved mangroves and visited Cinnamon Island where we viewed the harvest of – what else – cinnamon. Then we tickled our feet with a fish spa! But most of all, we were impressed by the importance of The fresh fruit

www.bahrainthismonth.com

e pri

ldives: Th

, Gan, Ma

Resort Canareef

e water

-turquois

tiful blue

, beau stine, calm

keeping Sri Lanka clean and green, which gave a feeling of hope for the world.

Two days in Sri Lanka and we were back in the air on our way to Bangkok with Sri ower e lotus fl Lankan Airlines and being etals of th p e th e g th f Foldin sounds o trail with ght taken care of by their beautiful, The Bike on both left and ri water welcoming air hostesses. Our four-day stay in Bangkok took us to three different Centara Hotels. Every one of them was classy, but worth a special note was the 50-floor Centara Grand with the beautiful view of the city from the 50th floor restaurant and the bubbly bar on the 50½ floor!

From the bustling street markets, to the first-class malls, to the Buddhist temple serenity. Who cannot love Bangkok for their choice of whatever you want to do? The Sunday street market offered an array of well-made, inexpensive products to buy and n Meditatio opened my senses to smells of spices and of the subtle smells of natural organic products; but the highlight of my time in unmatchable flavour.

For an easy flight with an exotic adventure, I Bangkok was a walk through the surroundings highly recommend this three-country of a Buddhist temple in the middle of busy excursion for its beautiful peoples, beautiful Bangkok. Meditating in the peaceful greenery and beautiful food! From Bahrain to atmosphere with others helped me understand the Maldives, Sri Lanka and Thailand, you how the Thai people can be so calm. In the won’t have to spend much of your time in serenity of the temple complex one can learn airplanes or airports. (Arrivals and departures the art of folding the petals of a lotus flower were always on time at every destination.) and understand the meaning behind it.

Wherever you decide to stay, I highly Of course, no adventure would be complete recommend Sri Lankan Airline to get you without a mention of the food! All three there. For good choices of food, modern countries offered pretty much anything you airplanes and polite staff, in the air and on the wanted, and having a huge desire to try most ground, remember – Sri Lankan Airlines. It is anything edible, I was overwhelmed by the the only international airline to fly to the island array of choices, especially fresh fruits picked of Gan, Maldives!! when they are ripe and thus having sweet May 2018 99

bystander Other Events

The Minister of Oil, HE Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, representing the National Oil and Gas Authority, hosted the Bahrain oil and gas discovery press conference, with participation of the manager of exploration at the Bahrain Petroleum Company, Yahya Al Ansari, and a representative from Haliburton, one of the world’s largest oil field service companies.

Unilever partnered up with Lulu Hypermarket to clean up the Manama Central Market.

CrediMax announced the name of its March winner for its 2018 ‘WE GIVE THE MAX’ campaign, congratulating Shaikh Ahmed Isa Al Khalifa, who won a Lexus ES 350 model 2018, one of the six cars up for grabs.

Under the patronage of the Minister of Labour & Social Development, Lulu Hypermarket launched its second job fair at Ramli Mall.

Cavallo Club hosted a party with DJ Dane Bowers at its premises at Atiram Premier Hotel.

Chaîne des Rôtisseurs chairman, Khalid Almoayed and board members hosted a reception for leading hospitality figures at the Crowne Plaza Hotel to announce the Bahrain chapter’s ‘Culinary Arts & Hospitality Entrepreneur Awards’ to take in the Kingdom in December 2018.

The official inauguration ceremony of Mondelez Bahrain Biscuits WLL Factory took place at its premises in Hidd.

100 March 2018

The GO Gosaibi Travel CEO Golf Tournament was held at the Royal Golf Club and concluded with an award night at Wyndham Grand Manama.

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bystander Other Events

The International Peace Institute Middle East and North Africa, Bahrain, launched the ‘Water Preventive Diplomacy’ at the Bahrain Financial Harbour.

Optica launched its latest store in Busaiteen, opposite the King Hamad Hospital.

The Gulf Hotel held a press conference in collaboration with the Thai Embassy to launch Sawasdee Thailand festival at its premises.

A charity dinner with Adam Jones, Welsh international forward, was held at the Bahrain Football Rugby Club.

Capital Club Bahrain held a media lunch with twoMichelin-starred Franco-Pakistani chef, Sylvestre Wahid, under the patronage of HE Cecile Longé, French Ambassdor.

Coda Lounge held a Bruno Mars tribute party at its premises in Atiram Premier Hotel.

The Tunisian community in Bahrain held a gathering in wake of the Tunisian Independence Day at the Capital Club.

Al Hawaj, in cooperation with CrediMax, held its ‘I Love My Mom’ programme at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

April 2018 101

tarotscope

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20 A woman of substance is due to come into your life this month and her appearance bodes well for you on the career front. She will provide you with direction and help you rediscover your deepest ambitions.

However, she will also demand that you work hard for her and you need to be committed and accept her advice, even if you don’t immediately see the bigger picture. Eventually it will all become apparent to you and, when it does, you will already be a safe distance down the road you want to be on.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Cups For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

LEO July 23 – August 22 A lot about your life might be feeling like a lottery now and if there is one thing you are missing it is continuity. So much seems to be up in the air that you can’t decide on what the best course of action might be. Still, you are a practical, often meticulous sign and you should play to your strengths and ensure that you sit down and filter through the fine print to get the answers you are looking for. The best thing to remember is that the situation is begging to be brought under your control and it remains in your hands.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Cups

VIRGO August 23 – September 22 Months of hard work and study are due to be rewarded with success soon and May could see you celebrating in a major way because of it. There is no question that you have had to endure some difficult times since the past year and the achievements you enjoy now will go some way towards making things better. On the home front a domestic issue could result in you having to spend money you were not prepared to part with and, consequently, you need to restrict yourself to a tight budget.

Card of the Month — The Wheel of Fortune

LIBRA September 23 – October 22 A young child is in desperate need of your attention and you should give up as much of your time as you can this month for this serious cry for help that genuinely needs to be addressed. This could be the tip of the iceberg and if you don’t deal with it quickly then matters could escalate. On a more positive note, a new face on the work scene is going to catch your eye and the feeling could be mutual so prepare yourself for a possible new romance.

Card of the Month — The Two of Swords

SCORPIO October 23 – November 21 GEMINI May 21 – June 20 A friend will surprise you this month with his full support in a dispute with a relative and it might even represent a turning point in your relationship. This could have a knockon effect for your confidence and you may find yourself more prone to taking risks or challenging your own reservations in the weeks that follow. Clearly this display of unity is going to also make you appreciate your friendship a lot more, and, if you get the opportunity, perhaps you should demonstrate your gratitude in some lasting fashion.

Card of the Month — The Page of Swords

CANCER June 21 – July 22 For some time now, a few of you may have been suspicious of a partner’s actions and it seems that, finally, your fears will be realised. This is going to cause a lot of friction and anxiety but, once the dust has settled, you will need to decide what remains in the aftermath and whether it is even worth fighting for anything more. All in all, some challenging decisions await you and there is a good chance that, after May has passed, these events may have changed you permanently as a person.

Card of the Month — The Tower 102 May 2018

Boy! Do you need a holiday after what has been one of the most taxing years of your life! The good news is that you are going to enjoy something very special in May and it will make everything you have been through worthwhile. Above all else, wherever you go you must leave all your concerns and responsibilities behind you. This is all about ‘me’ time so make the most of it. On the work front you may consider moving roles when you hear of a new opportunity that looks to have your name written all over it.

Card of the Month — Death

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 This month, romance is going to be high on the agenda but it may not follow the kind of passage you would ordinarily hope for. It seems that someone you have taken a liking to isn’t quite what he or she seems and, therefore, you may end up letting your feelings get ahead of you and being hurt in the process. You are generally a reserved creature who does not let their guard down, and whilst that isn’t always the best approach to take if you want to develop a relationship, your instincts are well placed on this occasion, so trust in them.

Card of the Month — The Ten of Wands www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index CAPRICORN December 22 – January 19 This month some of you may be feeling quite nostalgic and that could be triggered by the reappearance of an old friend in your life, coupled with a slight dip in circumstances surrounding your current work and living situations. You are not happy at home or in your career and you need to find the energy and drive to do something about that. However, you shouldn’t allow your thought processes to be clouded by emotional ties that have long since lost their significance.

Card of the Month — The Nine of Cups

Home & Furnishing Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 13

Hotels & Serviced Residences Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

There has been a significant hurdle for you to overcome in the last month and the remnants of that challenge still cast a shadow across your thoughts for May. The real challenge is about how you can detach yourself from the emotional debris and focus on getting your life back on track. It won’t be easy. It is certain to take a little time and you shouldn’t be afraid to speak to others who can help. Talking can ease the sense of isolation and it wouldn’t do you any harm to get the advice of loved ones as well.

Card of the Month — The Empress

Bahrain Tourism Co (Crowne Plaza) . 37

Park Regis Lotus Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

You may find that things slow down a little this month and you will be looking to put the finishing touches to a planned holiday that will see you travelling to a destination you’ve not visited before. As a water sign, you’ll find that the energy of this mainly Taurus month is going to motivate and drive you ever further and you can look forward to an exciting period in your life. On the relationship front, the initial friction that existed between you and a loved one is likely to have dissipated and you can enjoy a more stable and enjoyable time together from now on.

Card of the Month — The Emperor

ARIES March 21 – April 19 You have big plans for the autumn and, if everything comes together, you may find yourself preparing for a trip away this month to pastures new. You might not actually depart until June but there will be a lot of preparation involved, especially if you have children going with you, so make sure you don’t leave any possible eventuality unexplored. Financially you will have come through a minor blip last month relatively unscathed and you can now look forward to a more sustained and consistent period of growth.

Card of the Month — The Three of Swords

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Linda Evangelista

Pierce Brosnan

Uma Thurman

FAMOUS TAURUS THIS MONTH

University Medial Center King Abdullah Medical City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Motoring Jawad Business Group (JAC Motors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Ramada Manama City Centre . . . . . . 67 Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Regency Inter-Continental . . . . . . . . . 65 Sheraton Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . 21 The Diplomat Radisson BLU Hotel . . 25

PISCES February 19 – March 20

Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 69

Mercure Grand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

AQUARIUS January 20 – February 18

Medical & Dental Services

The Four Seasons Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 The Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Others Berlitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 BMMI (Alosra Supermarket) . . . . . . . . 2 Farhat International Tours & Travel . 33 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 OMD:Al Rashid Group:Centerpoint . . 15 SOJ Bahrain (Nespresso) . . . . . . . . . . 17

The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Restaurants & Cafés

The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa 9

Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

The Westin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Gallery 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

Wyndham Garden Manama . . . . . . . . 41

Miam Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Ramada Manama City Centre:Patio . 67

Jewellery & Watches

Talabat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

Sharif Group (Alpina) . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . 87

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

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

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

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

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

May 2018 103

winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from A La Mode.

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions.

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Bahrain This Month received 109 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

Where will the Darkness into Light walk take place? ______________________________________________ Which stand-up comics will be at the Laugh Out Loud 4 event? ______________________________________________

Winner : Shana Rashid Second Place : Prakash Kumar Third Place : Godwin D’Souza

Which two DJs will rock Coral Bay’s season closing party? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

Ad Seek:

When is International Museum Day? ______________________________________________

2. Rugby Club 3. Turkey

2. American Mission

1. Dima Al Sharif

1. UNEECO

Hospital-Riffa Medical &

4. England

Dental Center

5. Bruno Mars

What is the name of the master chef at The Westin City Centre Bahrain’s Furn restaurant? ______________________________________________

3. Sleep Well/The Westin

6. BD19,995

4. Tyga

7. Season Five 8. Via Brasil

9. Al Aali Shopping Complex, Seef

What is the price of Miam’s Iftar buffet? ______________________________________________

10. April 20

Which renowned designer has collaborated with The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, for its new Masaya tent? ______________________________________________

Name:

Address:

Name one dessert featured in Gallery 21’s food review. ______________________________________________

Telephone: Email:

What’s the name of the new Mercedes-Benz taxi, which was unveiled in Dubai recently? ______________________________________________

CPR: Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Which car won the ‘World Luxury Car 2018’ award at the New York Auto Show?

AD Seek

This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of Bahrain This Month. All you have to ICONIC do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

RAMADAN EXPERIENCES

1.

104 May 2018

2.

3.

Fill your Ramadan evenings with conversation, good company and flavoursome food at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. We have created ambiances to make your Iftar and Ghabga gatherings unique times to remember. Discover our shisha lounge and live

4. www.bahrainthismonth.com