Bahrain This Month - May 2020

TECHNOLOGY - ENTERTAINMENT - TRAVEL

Since 1997

May 2020 | Vol. 24 | Issue 5 | BD2 / SR20 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

RAMADAN

PEOPLE

Pakistan’s New Ambassador HE Afzaal Mahmood

Iftar Dining Delivery Options Traditional Recipes to Try Eid Gifts for Everyone

Quarantino Creator Jason Carter

MOTORING

A Tribute to Niki Lauda

WTM

Super-Stylish Modest Dressing Fashion Trends Report Part II

NOT OUT & ABOUT

What Fernanda Did Next

FUN CREATIVE PROJECTS FOR ALL THE FAMILY

Create Your Own Salon Treatments

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

Digital Edition

Eye Care in the New Age of Pandemics!

Recent reports* suggest that SARS-CoV-2 can cause mild follicular conjunctivitis and is also detected in tears of COVID-19 patients.

Limiting eye exposure can, therefore, help to significantly reduce your risk of getting infected. *American Academy of Ophthalmology (April 21st 2020) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Royal College of Ophthalmology

To Stay Safe Wash your hands often, and keep them away from your face and eyes If you wear contact lenses, consider switching to glasses for a while Seek face-to-face medical attention only for urgent or emergent problems Tele consult using a “virtual” visit over the phone or video chat over the internet using a computer If you must touch your eyes for any reason — even to administer eye medicine — wash your hands first with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Then wash them again afterward

For Teleconsultation Contact

Department of Ophthalmology

17812222

CONTENTS

MAY

20

30

47

59

WOMAN THIS MONTH CONTENTS

42

Get the Modest Look Up-to-the-minute modest styling for Ramadan.

Fashion News

46

Gossip and fun facts from around the industry.

Interview

47

Fernanda Langhammer on future adventures.

BEAUTY

52-55

Styling, tips and news.

LIFESTYLE

58-61

Well-being, food and homes.

IN HER SHOES

62

Dr Amy Bowzaylo, Clinical Director and CEO of InTouch Clinic.

FEATURE

48

46

www.bahrainthismonth.com bahrainthismonth

7

Ramadan Feature

Dining, recipes, Eid gifting.

Interviews

19

Forward Thinking and 24/7 Help

20

Musical Quarantine

Pakistani Ambassador, His Excellency Afzaal Mahmood, on business, VIP visits and dealing with coronavirus.

Jason Carter talks about his work, life experiences and a new music composition and video, Quarantino.

Commerce

22 23

Picking Up The Pieces Pria Masson Tanwar shares thoughts on life after the virus.

Business Bites

MOTORING

26 28

Dick Potter

A tribute to racing legend Niki Lauda.

Motors Bites

Technology

30-34

The best in gadgets, games, websites and apps.

Entertainment

SS20 Fashion Trends Report Part II

www.bahrainthismonth.com

28

Cover Story

38

FEATURE

23

ISSUE 273

7

35-36

New TV and music to enjoy.

Lifestyle bhthismonth

37-40

Green goodies, travel and NOT out and about.

May 2020 3

Get your favourite partner anytime at www.redhousemarketing.com

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redhousemarketing

THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton

Bahrain This Month May 2020

Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Dick Potter, Pria Masson Tanwar Ouiam Charkani El Hassani Live and Taste Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Hatem Monem

Firstly, may I wish all our readers Ramadan Kareem. The Holy Month is upon us and, though we find ourselves in strange times indeed, the age-old traditions remain. Since the usual large Iftar and Ghabga gatherings are not possible, we’ve put together four pages of delivery options so you can still enjoy five-star Ramadan feasts in the comfort and safety of your own home. We’ve also added our second selection of traditional recipes for you to recreate in your own kitchen.

Photography Editor Muna Yousef Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz

And, of course, Ramadan brings us inevitably to Eid al-Fitr. If you’re thinking of gifts, we have great ideas for family and friends young and not so young.

Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar

Not surprisingly, given the current circumstances, our BTM interviews this month both have a somewhat viral focus. HE Afzaal Mahmood, the Pakistani Ambassador, talks trade, VIP visits and supporting his community during the pandemic. Looking at things from a different perspective, musician and artist, Jason Carter, tells us about his latest venture, a stunning melody and video called Qarantino.

Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services)

Media Sales ANURADHA MANHAS anuradha@redhousemarketing.com

Regular columnist, Pria Masson Tanwar turns her thoughts to picking up the pieces, commercially, as the crisis eases. And Dick Potter pays tribute to motor racing great Niki Lauda, a year on from his death.

TATUM TURNER tatum@redhousemarketing.com

As always, there’s news from the worlds of business and motoring as well as plenty to keep you occupied from tech to TV and music, as well as NOT Out and About – a selection of at-home activities for the whole family to enjoy.

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

The Woman This Month pages are packed with fashion, from the second part of our SS20 Trends Report to lots of ideas for stylish modest dressing during the Holy Month. We also caught up with former editor, Fernanda Langhammer, who has great plans for a fashionable future.

In the beauty pages you’ll find ideas to bring the salon home and tips on looking conference-call chic, and the well-being section looks at feel-good boosts to combat the isolation blues.

Printing Press Union Press, Bahrain

Not surprisingly, given the current circumstances, we’ve gone for an online edition this month and I would urge you to keep an eye on our websites @ www.bahrainthismonth.com and www.womanthismonth.com as well as our social media pages for more great news updates than ever before.

Published monthly by

Virus or not, we remain your guide to a great way of life.

RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: info@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2020 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

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

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

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

COVER Cover Picture:

Ramadan

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

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

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2020 5

YOUR BEST SOURCE FOR BEAUTY AND FASHION www.womanthismonth.com

ramadan feature

The Holy Month is upon us and though we may not be able to gather to break the fast and share the very special feelings of this spiritual time, that doesn’t mean the traditions cannot be observed. Over the coming pages you will find details of restaurants and hotels offering takeaway and delivery options for all your favourite Ramadan dishes.

We also have recipes for you to recreate in your own kitchen as well as great ideas for gifting on the festival of Eid al-Fitr.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2020 7

ramadan feature

IRRESISTABLE EATS

ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands presents an unbeatable offer to enjoy lip-smacking delights during Ramadan. The hotel’s set menu for the Holy Month is available for takeaway, and is priced at BD19 for five persons, or BD5 per person. It is the perfect opportunity to gather with loved ones for a quintessential meal of Oriental dishes in the comfort of your home.

Orders can be picked up daily from 4pm-11pm.

Call 33 580-044 or 33 580-048.

AN IMPECCABLE IFTAR EXPERIENCE

Areen Palace and Spa by Accor offers an exclusively curated Iftar and Ghabga menu for takeaway or delivery to be enjoyed at home, priced at BD35 for two persons.

Additionally, clients can savour an Iftar or Ghabga setup in the privacy of the resort’s villas (limited to only five people as per ministry regulations). The pastry experts have also put together a beautiful dessert takeaway box to satisfy the sweet tooth.

Call 36 057-494.

A roundup of top-notch Ramadan feasts that you can enjoy at your own dining table.

BRING THE FESTIVITIES HOME EXCEPTIONAL TASTES

Break your fast with an excellent Iftar menu during the Holy Month from Downtown Rotana. The sumptuous four-course set menu is replete with Arabic favourites, available daily from 4pm-6.30pm.

The meal costs BD4.500 per person, or BD18 for five persons. Additionally, the culinary team at Flavours on 2 Restaurant have prepared an exceptional à la carte takeaway menu that includes a fine selection of items made from the finest ingredients, available all day long.

Call 33 605-070.

WORLD-CLASS RAMADAN DINING

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa presents the gourmet Layali Al Zallaq Ramadan Take Away and Home Delivery menu that guests can order and enjoy in the safety of their homes. Guests have the choice of ordering ready-togrill marinated meats and sauces, salads and mezze, soups, pizza and manakesh and main courses like Hammour Syadiyah, Chicken Tagine and Freekeh, Lamb Harisse and Ouzi, besides other international choices. Desserts comprise a delightful variety as well as a kids’ selection.

Call or WhatsApp 38 885-789.

8 May 2020

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan feature

A CLASSY FEAST AT HOME

The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay offers an à la carte menu, with a variety of appetisers and main dishes, as well as specially-designed set menus that reflect the tradition and spirit of Ramadan. The three menu options are priced at BD22, BD24 and BD26, comprising varying options for hot and cold mezze, soup, main course and dessert. Each menu is suitable for two people, and an exclusive discount of 10 per cent will be applied for orders for 10 or more guests. The menus can be viewed on the hotel’s website and ordered through Talabat.

Call: 17 115-000.

A RAVISHING REPAST

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa welcomes the Holy Month with a unique blend of authentic cuisines curated by Bahraini executive chef, Younis Ramadhn. There are two menu options each for Iftar, and Suhoor and Ghabga. They are priced at BD24 and are suitable for two to three people. The dishes provided offer guests the best of international and native cuisine.

Call 39 945-208. www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2020 9

ramadan feature

HEALTHY INDULGENCE

Presenting dishes from all around the world, Chef & The Whale brings you flavourful, satisfying dishes made from the freshest ingredients. The outlet’s special Ramadan menu is full of mouthwatering gluten-free and vegan options delivered piping hot to your doorstep. Guests have the option of ordering two, four or six portions of tempting dishes like Pistachio Crusted Salmon, Saffron and Lemon Chicken and Aubergine and Quinoa Kofta.

Call or WhatsApp 34 173-404 or 36 554-291.

SUNSET CELEBRATIONS

Crowne Plaza Bahrain offers a delectable Iftar menu for takeaway or delivery. The traditional meal, which is good for two, is priced at BD19 for two people. Guests can benefit from a 15-per-cent discount if they select the takeaway option.

You can also become a master chef at home with the help of a recipe box delivered to you. With measured ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe, cook Indian treats like atishe jhinga, burani gosht, macchi ka salan and paneer makhani, good for two-three people. Prices range between BD8 and BD12.

Call 39 242-391.

A TANTALISING TABLE

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain lets you enjoy a meaningful Iftar in the comfort of home with sumptuous home-style dishes prepared by talented chefs. The Iftar takeaway set menu is priced at BD8 per person, and includes an assortment of mezze, soup, main course of your choice including the likes of mixed grills with salad or Oriental rice, chicken biryani and lamb Kabsa. Along with Ramadan drinks and dates, guests can savour tasty desserts.

Orders for four or more persons receive a 25 per cent discount.

Call 17 460-017.

TREAT YOUR TASTE BUDS

Order your favourite Ramadan treats from Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain to enjoy at home. Whether you are looking for Ramadan classics or international delights, the well-planned à la carte menu will cater to any taste. Select from local crowd pleasers like grilled hammour, ouzi and baklava or tantalising pastas and pizzas, apart from a variety of hot and cold starters. There is also a Gold Set Menu with soup, starter, main course and dessert for BD25. Available for pick-up or delivery everyday from noon to midnight.

Call 77 707-070.

10 May 2020

DIVINELY DELICIOUS

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, in partnership with stc Bahrain, brings guests a signature Iftar and Ghabga feast delivered at their doorstep or to be collected from the hotel. The expertly-crafted menus will satisfy the most discerning of palates, featuring a selection of popular fare in addition to Lebanese, Egyptian, Indian and Oriental delicacies. Enjoy the Full Moon Feast, comprising 22 items, priced at BD45 for two persons, or BD90 for four persons. The Half Moon Feast comprises 15 items, priced at BD35 for two persons, or BD70 for four persons.

Call 17 586-499. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan feature

CULINARY GEMS

The Wyndham Grand Manama Bahrain offers a special set menu for Iftar and Ghabga for delivery or pickup, priced at BD7.900++. Customers can choose one item from the array of salads, soups, main course, drinks and desserts. The selected menu can be ordered from 5pm10.30pm every day. A daily extensive à la carte menu is also available for delivery, offering delicious fare like soups, salads, skewers, pizzas, sides and desserts.

Call 17 247-524 or WhatsApp 33 660-313

FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Manos, at Bahrain Rugby Football Club, has a call and collect service during Ramadan.

Food can be ordered from two extensive menus, which offer customers options like burgers, pasta, pizza, sharing platters, quesadillas, grills, pub favourites and vegetarian dishes. A selection for kids is also available. Those craving the restaurant’s signature steaks and speciality dishes like pickled octopus and Peri Peri Chicken livers can also enjoy them at home.

Call 39 893-101.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

TEMPTING TREATS

Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain’s Baharat restaurant offers an Iftar package priced at BD35, good for up to four persons. Guests can choose one option from the choice of juices and soups (1 litre), four options from cold mezza, two kinds of hot mezza, two main course items and three kinds of dessert. A selection of Arabic and international bread is also included. Get ready to be delighted with fare like Veal Harris, Stuffed Vine Leaves with Lamb Chops, Marshoush Ades and lip-smacking sweet treats. The pickup point is at The Westin City Centre Bahrain.

Call 17 171-152 or WhatsApp 33 538-150.

May 2020 11

ramadan feature

BABAGHANOUSH A DELICIOUS MIDDLE EASTERN DIP WHICH IS A FUNDAMENTAL PART OF AN ARABIC MEZE.

Ingredients - 3 aubergines - 3 garlic cloves - 1 lemon juiced - 2 tbsp tahini - 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra to drizzle - ½ tsp sea salt - ½ tsp black pepper - 1 tbsp flat leaf parsley Method - Prick the aubergines with a fork, scorch under a hot grill or flame until blackened (this is an important step in developing the flavour), it takes around 15 minutes and flesh should feel soft.

- Allow to cool. Scoop out the flesh, place into a processor add the garlic, lemon, tahini, olive oil, salt and pepper.

- Place in a serving dish and finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle parsley on top.

- You can give the recipe a slightly different twist at the end by adding pomegranate molasses along with the jewels of pomegranate seeds.

PINK TABBOULEH A DIFFERENT AND COLOURFUL TAKE ON THIS TRADITIONAL DISH.

Ingredients – 200g bulgur wheat – ½ tsp pink Himalayan salt – Freshly ground black pepper – 1 bunch each flat leaf parsley and fresh mint, chopped – 4 spring onions chopped – 1 large pomegranate – Juice of two lemons – 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – 4 ripe vine tomatoes – 50g freshly roasted pistachios – 1 small cooked beetroot – Sumac to sprinkle (optional) Method - Bring the bulgur wheat to the boil in a pan of water, simmer for about 15 minutes, drain and leave to cool.

- Chop the tomatoes and pistachio, add to a bowl with the chopped parsley, mint and spring onions, add the lemon juice and olive oil.

- Remove the pomegranate seeds, add to the bowl and stir.

- Finely dice the beetroot and add to the bowl.

- Fluff up the bulgur wheat with a fork, add to the bowl at the last minute, mix well and transfer to a serving bowl. Sprinkle over the sumac.

12 May 2020

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan feature

MAIN COURSE

CHICKEN BIRYANI Makes 4-6 servings Prep time: 2 hours Ingredients

3 tbsp curry powder 2 tsp ginger, finely grated 2 tsp garlic, crushed and finely chopped 1 tsp garam masala 250ml yoghurt 1kg chicken pieces 100ml oil 2 white onions, finely diced 4 cloves garlic, crushed and finely chopped 4 tsp ginger, finely grated 3 tsp paprika powder 1 tbsp coriander powder 2 tsp turmeric powder 500g yoghurt 3 tbsp fresh mint, chopped 2 tomatoes, chopped

For the rice

500g basmati rice 4 cardamom pods 4 tsp garam masala 1 cinnamon stick 2 bay leaves pinch salt pinch black pepper 150ml melted ghee 3 tbsp rose water

Method

Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a large bowl, mix together the curry powder, ginger, garlic, garam masala, salt and yoghurt. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them completely. Cover and refrigerate for an hour.

Heat the oil in a large frypan and cook the onions and garlic until it is light golden brown. Add the ginger, paprika, coriander, turmeric, yoghurt, mint and tomatoes. Cook for five minutes. Add the marinated chicken, reduce the heat and cook covered until chicken is tender - about 20 minutes. Boil sufficient water with the cardamom pods, garam masala, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, salt, pepper and rice. Cook until the rice is soft; drain and keep it aside.

In a large casserole dish, starting with rice on the base, place alternate layers of rice and chicken with a sprinkling of melted ghee in between the layers and more ghee on top. Carefully end it with the rice layer topped with rose water. Cover and seal it with a lid. Cook in the pre-heated oven for 20 to 25 minutes.

Remove the lid and serve immediately.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2020 13

ramadan feature

MAIN COURSE

LAMB THAREED Makes 6-8 servings Prep time: 4 hours Ingredients

1.5kg lamb leg (bone in) cut into large pieces 3 pieces black lemon 2 red onions, chopped 1 garlic clove 30g coriander, chopped 1 bay leaf 3 tsp Arabic masala 2 tsp coriander powder 1 tsp garam masala 1 tsp turmeric powder 270g tomato paste 125g tamarind (soaked in 200ml water and

strained, reserving the water) 3 tbsp vegetable oil 2ltr water 1tbsp salt 1 each: carrot, koosa, courgette, eggplant, potato,

cut into quarters 100g cauliflower florets 100g red pumpkin in large pieces 200g thareed kuboos

Method

Heat the oil in a large pot, add chopped onion and garlic and sauteĚ . Add the dry spices, bay leaf, tomato paste and tamarind water and cook for 30 seconds.

Add lamb and cook among the spices for one minute. Add water and black lemon and bring to the boil. Cover and simmer for two and a half hours until the lamb is tender.

Remove any excess fat floating on the surface.

Add pumpkin and potato and simmer for 10 minutes. Add remaining vegetables and simmer for a further 10 minutes.

In a high-sided serving bowl crush the thareed kuboos and pour over four cups of the liquid from the lamb.

Allow it to soak into the kuboos. Top the centre of the dish with the lamb and surround it with the vegetables.

Pour over remaining liquid and serve with a sprinkling of fresh coriander.

14 May 2020

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan feature

ROSEWATER AND CARDAMOM ICE CREAM A DELICIOUS, DELICATE TASTE IDEAL FOR WARM ARABIAN NIGHTS.

Ingredients - 600ml double cream - 600ml milk - 1 tin evaporated milk - 1 stick of cinnamon - 10 whole cardamom pods, lightly crushed - 160g castor sugar - Rosewater - Pink colouring - Edible rose petals or mint leaves for decoration (optional).

Method - Add the cream, milk and evaporated milk, cinnamon stick and the cardamom pods into a pan and gently bring to the boil, allow to infuse and reduce by one third.

- In another saucepan add the sugar with enough rosewater to cover and heat until the sugar is dissolved – just a couple of minutes.

- Add the rosewater to the milk mixture and allow to cool.

Strain the liquid, discard the cinnamon and cardamom pods and add one to two drops of pink colouring.

- Place into an ice-cream machine and process or into the freezer for four hours, stirring every hour or so.

- Serve in pretty containers and sprinkle with your chosen decoration.

UMM ALI

A comfort-food classic, perfect for the current circumstances.

Ingredients - 8 tbsp sugar - 6 tbsp sweetened condensed milk - 7 bread slices - 2 tbsp shredded coconut - 375ml whipping cream - 1.75 to 2 cups milk (according to your taste as per the consistancy) - ¼ cup almonds - ¼ cup chopped pistachios - Brown sugar for sprinkling on top Method - Cut the bread slices into small pieces. Add to a medium size baking dish.

- Add the coconut, almonds and pistachios. Spread evenly.

- In another pan, bring to a boil the milk, condensed milk and three tablespoons of sugar.

- Pour over the bread mixture. Let it soak for 10 minutes.

- Whisk five tablespoons of sugar and whipping cream until you get a soft peak.

- Spread on top of the bread mixture and sprinkle with brown sugar.

- Bake for 15 minutes at 175°C. - Chill for at least four to five hours.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2020 15

ramadan feature

PERFECT PRESSIES

PUT A RING ON IT

Jewels and pearls in a pretty sphere.

Available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

With the Holy Month coming to an end in the festival of Eid al-Fitr, thoughts turn to gifts for family and friends. Who knows when we will be able to get together for large gatherings but check out our ideas and be prepared.

FOR THE LITTLEST FAMILY MEMBERS

Cute clothing sets Available at 6thstreet.com

CULTURAL DÉCOR

Caligraphy ornament Available at Home Box.

TIME TO SHINE

The Gc PrimeChic collection comes in colourful options and is adorned with Swarovski crystal.

Available at Al Hawaj.

ONE OF A KIND

Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Singing Birds ‘Blue Jay’ watch.

Available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

FIENDISHLY FUN

Transparent clear impossible jigsaw puzzle.

Available at etsy.com

STRANGELY SWEET

Glass unzipped bag Available at uncommongoods.com

LOVING GIFT

This little knitted hedgehog’s heart is clear for all to see.

Available at etsy.com

TYRANNOSAURUS TACOS

Dinosaur taco holders Available at uncommongoods.com

HIS AND HERS

Traditional scents from the Prestige Collection.

Available at Kewelrams.

LEARNING FUN

World Map colouring tablecloth Available at uncommongoods.com 16 May 2020

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan feature COMES IN HANDY TRY YOUR LUCK

Iron and Glory dice Available at namshi.com

ARM CANDY

Cute ladies’ or kids’ purse Available at Lulu.

CLASSY CUPPA

John Louis bag Available at Lulu.

Futuristic coffee pot Available at Mr Porter.

DESIGNER ACCESSORIES Hugo Boss keyring and pen Available at namshi.com

PRETTY PERFUME

Ajmal Regina women’s scent Available at namshi.com

NUTTY MOMENTS

Embellished nut holder Available at Lifestyle.

LOVE IN A CUP DRESS IT UP

Pretty detachable collar Available at Max Mara.

A SCENTED HOME

Traditional tea set Available at Lifestyle.

Rituals oudh and patchouli fragrance sticks.

Available at 6thstreet.com

IT’S A CINCH

Women’s wide belt Available at Max Mara.

BOY RACER

Race car cufflinks Available at Mr Porter.

STREAMLINED SHAVING Metal razor and stand.

Available at Mr Porter.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BEAUTIFULLY BOOKISH Shiraleah agate book ends Available at namshi.com

SCENT OF EID

Rose velvet oud candle Available at namshi.com May 2020 17

BAHRAIN THIS MONTH GOES MULTI-PLATFORM Read Bahrain This Month in any format convenient to you • Print • Online • Digital • Social media to keep you abreast of everything that’s happening in and about town.

You can now read Bahrain This Month from its Instagram account. Click on the bio-link and it takes you to a curated page where you can tap the images and read the articles. Simple, convenient and easy!!

Go Published monthly by:

Red House Marketing P. O. Box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: editor@womanthismonth.com

bahrainthismonth

Digital Edition

FORWARD THINKING

interview

and 24/7 Help

BTM quizzed Pakistani Ambassador, His Excellency Afzaal Mahmood, on developments in business, VIP visits and how his community is dealing with the coronavirus.

How is the coronavirus affecting the island’s Pakistani community? And how is the embassy helping?

Pakistanis in Bahrain are facing the challenge of coronavirus with great responsibility by following government guidelines on social distancing and staying safe at home. So far, very few Pakistanis have been reported infected.

Some of our nationals, who were working with smaller companies, have lost their livelihoods. They are being supported by the embassy, with assistance from the Pakistani community. The Pakistani business community is helping jobless workers in paying rent, utility bills and buying essential items for day-to-day use.

We have set up a 24/7 hotline to allow access to our nationals. They can call us on 17 244-113. We also keep in close contact through social media.

The embassy is open as usual for consular services.

Several MoUs were signed during Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit to the Kingdom last December. Is work on these still progressing, despite the virus?

The signings were an MoU on Cooperation in the Field of Medical Sciences, MoU on Cooperation in Youth Affairs and Sports and an MoU on Cooperation in Education and Higher Education and Science Research.

We are actively following up on these despite the outbreak of coronavirus. A robust follow-up action plan is in play to boost Pakistan-Bahrain brotherly ties.

Has the scheduled meeting of the Bahrain-Pakistan Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) been put on hold?

When do you expect it to take place and what will it concentrate on?

The JMC’s second session is now being planned for the last quarter of this year. It will review all aspects and dimensions of cooperation on bilateral, regional and international platforms. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Intensification of trade and investment will remain the main focus.

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa is due to visit Pakistan. Is this visit still likely to go ahead?

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, during his last visit to Bahrain, extended a warm invitation to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for a visit to Pakistan, which His Majesty very kindly accepted. We are making preparations for the visit at the convenience of His Majesty which will be conveyed by the Royal Court.

PM Khan’s visit included a vow to work closely to increase trade and investment between the two nations.

What are the current trade figures between the two?

A good amount of goods and services are traded between Pakistan and Bahrain, some directly and others through third countries. Under normal circumstances there are 32 weekly direct Gulf Air flights from Pakistan bringing lots of fresh fruit, vegetables and meat. The latest bilateral direct trade figure is USD150 million.

I believe we can have greater trade in processed food, textiles, leather goods, sports goods, surgical instruments, home furnishings and in the services sector, including IT, banking, medical and engineering.

We are utilising all available resources on both sides to put the business communities in contact with each other. We have facilitated visits of business delegations and participation of businessmen in trade exhibitions and conferences.

I am thankful to the Bahraini leadership for treating Pakistanis with dignity and supporting me in my Mission.

Please scan the code to read the full interview

May 2020 19

interview

MUSICAL QUARANTINE Liz O’Reilly quizzed Bahrain-based artist, Jason Carter, about his work, life experiences and a new music composition and video, Quarantino, that somehow encompasses the current situation.

A

re you a collective or is it purely you, getting people together for specific projects and can you tell us about the most recent ones?

I have always done a mixture of solo classical guitar work and collaborations, but I was looking to put all future collaborations under one banner, hence `The Sundial Project' The music video is the first of such videos under this banner. The idea is that The Sundial Project is also a live band concept that can be anything from two people upwards.

The name was created by drummer Terl Bryant. A sundial just sits there, but when light hits it tells you where you are.

Guides you.

What brought you to Bahrain?

I first set foot in Bahrain in 1999 to give guitar workshops for a group of musicians.

Bass player Ahmed Al Qassim was part of that group. I loved Bahrain from the outset and during that first visit I collaborated with Bahraini Pearl Diving musicians. I visited many times and came back for a longer stint in 2016 to make the documentary Grain of Sand. I met my wife-tobe here, Lydia Martin, and we are still here.

Where did the inspiration come from and how did you select the musicians to be involved?

I wanted to try a remote collaboration, so I called upon drummer Terl Bryant, sax player Mike Haughton, Flamenco artist Pepe Martinez and singer Lydia Martin, all of whom I had worked with before. They have their own respective studios, so the first step was to have everyone record their parts. Once the track was mixed, I went to the UK and France to film Terl, Mike and Pepe. Lydia, I filmed here in Bahrain. I made it back to Bahrain just before the global lockdown started due to COVID-19 and embarked on the video editing.

What’s next? Are you working on anything during our mini lockdown?

At first, I found the lockdown challenging but after a couple of weeks I began to see ways of using this time creatively. I am planning a film about Bahrain for Netflix, which talks about Bahrain culture and how Bahrain is so open to people of all cultures.

The COVID-19 situation says it all, that Bahrain treats everyone equally, regardless of race, religion or social standing.

Is the island home now?

It is and as a film maker there are so many fascinating perspectives, stories to be told.

Bahrain is a unique place, I would say the jewel of the Arabian Gulf.

www.grainofsand.tv www.jasoncarter.net You can watch the video here: shorturl.at/cegmV

What is the singer saying?

Pepe wrote the lyrics and the translation from Spanish is: "Let the water tell you the way, that you have to drink to know... what hurts, what hurts."

You said you started working on it before the virus really hit, how did it become Quarantino?

Naming of tracks or composition is always an interesting and sometimes difficult process. Pepe had worn a mask during the film recording, we just liked the idea, little did we know that one month later masks would become central to people’s everyday lives. The name Quarantino just seemed to fit given the circumstances.

20 May 2020

www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

ALL ABOUT JASON

“

The arts cannot change the world but it can inspire and influence those with the power to do so” – Jason Carter Jason Carter’s musical depth and extraordinary style have left an indelible impact around the globe. Touring with his inimitable fusion of world music and classical styles, he has performed in more than 100 countries and travelled over a million miles – making music in such diverse locations as Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, North Korea, Pakistan and the Gulf States.

Garnering a reputation as an ambassador for peace and intercultural dialogue by using music to open doors for communication, Jason has received honours and awards for these efforts and also support from UNESCO, The United Nations and the British Government.

Jason is a guitarist/composer of the highest calibre and originality. Prolific and exceptionally creative, he continually produces captivating and alluring music that showcases not only his classical abilities but also his obvious love for world music.

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Played with humility, passion and exquisite flair, his music offers audiences a profound and intimate experience, regardless of the size of the venue. Jason’s ability to connect with his audience is unparalleled and offers a moving, thought-provoking and unexpectedly comforting experience.

He has made the bold transition from music into film and completed his first documentary Grain of Sand, a film that raises questions about cultural identity through the music and heritage of the pearl divers of the Arabian Gulf. Grain of Sand enjoyed its world premiere at Dubai International Film Festival in December 2017. It reached the top five in the film competition at Pakistan International Film Festival in Karachi and went on to premieres around the world including UNESCO screenings as part of the 'World Heritage' series.

What They Said “Jason helps to build much needed relationships across borders that the technological forces driving globalisation could never achieve.” – Neville McBain, British Council, Iran.

"Jason Carter builds extraordinary bridges between cultures; we are proud to have Jason with us.” – HE Sir Sherard Cowper Coles, British Ambassador, Afghanistan.

May 2020 21

commerce

PICKING UP THE PIECES Regular columnist, Pria Masson Tanwar, takes stock of what the post-virus future may hold.

S

ince the start of 2020, there’s been so much going on that it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the negative noise. In looking for threads of possibility, I thought of what will happen when we all get back to picking up the pieces once this is behind us.

Will there be too many pieces to be picked up?

Will I, as an individual or family unit, have specific pieces that are broken. The list of uncertainties is long, so, as always, let’s break it down to simpler terms.

Let me begin by saying that the human impact cannot really be “retrieved”, and the emotional baggage will need a whole different analysis. For this exercise, I’m sticking to aspects that are more tangible and hence “in human control”.

Start with your own family. What industry do members of your family interact with; i.e. either work at or use the services of. Take the example of an individual who works for a telecom operator – so, one person works for and everyone in the family likely uses the services of the company. The question is, has your interaction as a user changed? If so, are you interacting more or less?

If the answer is either “the same” or “more”,

22 May 2020

it’s unlikely your job is impacted. Why? Because, the telecom operator is impacted if people interact with it (pay) less. If that’s not lower, its unlikely other things will change too much. You can run this exercise across all services to realise that a lot of economic activity may be on a break but is unlikely to be dramatically altered. Some will, of course, but all is not lost. Far from it.

While a lot of businesses are impacted severely, there continue to be those that are more resilient such as the staple industries, namely telecommunications, technology, healthcare and education, because the services are price and event resistant. People will use technology, children will go to school, healthcare is needed (now more than ever).

You get the idea?

There are also those sectors that are impacted but not stopped – so retail, hospitality or restaurants. These, if run by individuals, will face larger issues. If operated as a franchise or part of a larger brand, the impact may be lesser since the larger firms have greater resilience to bounce back.

Then there is banking. This sector is driven by economics and politics. In terms of the

economics, if the stimulus packages are to promote spending, they tend to be inflationary. But, if infused for a specific cause, the inflationary impact may not be high. This means that post-crisis, banks will be happy to lend to stimulate spending to aid business recovery.

Think about the companies where each of you work. Are people thinking there will be no tomorrow or are they planning for 2021? Cargo operations and trade seem to be carrying on to some extent. Stock markets (as of mid-April) have stopped falling. Zoom is doing great business – which means business is carrying on. The hope is there.

So, plan for that new business, that new project, that growth or promotion that you dreamed of. Stay positive and stay on course.

The pieces can, and will, be picked up.

Pria is an Advisor with JEO Management Consultants (http://www.jeomanagement.com).

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

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business bites

NEW APPOINTMENTS TO BANK BOARD GFH Financial Group (GFH) has appointed Ali Murad and Ahmed Alahmadi to its board of directors.

Ali Murad is the MD and co-founder of Pinnacle Bahrain and serves on the boards of various companies. He began his career at Arab Banking Corporation where he spent five years in a variety of positions before joining Unicorn Investment Bank (now Bank Alkhair) and later First Energy Bank. In 2010, he established Pinnacle, a holding company that acquires and holds stakes in various sectors including technology, music publishing and real estate, to name a few.

Ahmed Alahmadi is an Associate at Mubadala Investment Company working in mergers and acquisitions, where he assists teams across the company in sourcing deals and executing transactions.

BANK SUPPORTS 4,000 MIGRANT WORKERS As part of its efforts to lend a helping hand to those affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has contributed to cover food provision and supplies for 4,000 migrant workers as part of the Capital Governorate’s ‘Together We Care’ campaign.

The campaign, led by His Excellency the Capital Governor, Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, distributes ready-cooked meals and food essentials such as rice, oil and vegetables.

Shaikh Hisham said: “I am very proud of what has been achieved since the launch of the campaign, it has demonstrated the true meaning of all parties coming together and working as one towards a common goal. This has proven that we all are truly #TeamBahrain and reaffirms our values and solidarity.”

The campaign is being organised by the Capital Governorate in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior which is managing the distribution process.

VIRTUAL SHOPPING More than 100 companies have signed up for Bahrain’s virtual mall, an initiative launched by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism to help keep the wheels of retail business turning despite Covid-19 restrictions.

Businesses wanting to use the services of mall.bh must offer an online payment www.bahrainthismonth.com

method and delivery services. Enrolment is free with no interim payments.

The user-friendly online shopping platform was launched in response to coronavirus market disruptions, which have motivated local enterprises to reconsider how they transact business online.

Additionally, it helps businesses unlock the immense opportunities digital transformation provides, including allowing them to closely monitor consumer behaviour to adjust their market strategy accordingly.

May 2020 23

business bites

CALIFORNIA UNI COMING TO BAHRAIN

The American University of Bahrain (AUBH) is pursuing an academic partnership with California State University, Northridge (CSUN), accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and a number of field-specific accreditors.

The move would offer AUBH students a curriculum focused on preparation for academic success, as well as for careers in the regional and global marketplace, opportunities to study abroad and a pathway to finish their studies in California in the future.

CSUN combines breadth of study with rigorous professional preparation in a wide range of fields, including engineering, computer science, advanced STEM fields, business, sciences, healthcare, counselling and social service professions, entertainment industries, media and the arts, social sciences and humanities.

The university has nine colleges and more than 2,000 faculty members who teach courses leading to Bachelor’s degrees in 69 disciplines, Master’s degrees in 69 fields and three doctorates.

IGA LAUNCHES RAMADAN EMAJLIS The Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) held its first ever virtual Ramadan ‘eMajlis’, via Zoom video conferencing technology on April 29. The initiative, in line with iGA’s commitment to social distancing during the current pandemic, aimed to strengthen its communication with citizens, residents, and specialists in the IT field. Participants in the casual conversation were encouraged to share their suggestions on how to improve the services offered by the iGA, and develop the role of technology in a post-Coronavirus world.

The eMajlis offered the public an opportunity to communicate directly with senior iGA officials, including Chief Executive, Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, who said: “Improving the quality and efficiency of these services will support the government’s digital transformation processes, making them accessible through different online channels, platforms and smartphone applications.”

“100 LAPTOPS” INITIATIVE LAUNCHED Students in need will get a boost to their remote learning options through AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation’s “100 Laptops” aimed at helping them keep up with their education in response to the coronavirus situation.

The initiative calls on individuals, companies and organisations to get involved while spreading the spirit of giving as well as ensuring the right of education to all.

Her Highness Shaikha Zain bint Khalid Al Khalifa, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation, said: "We would like to thank His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Governor of the Southern Governorate, for his generous gesture donating 60 laptops as the first contributor in our initiative."

Anyone who would like to help can contact the foundation on 17 499-909 or email: info@mkfbh.org.

24 May 2020

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E R O M O D NLINE! O med r o f n i mers

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thebhrg 46 June 2018

www.theBHRG.com

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motoring news

MY LIFE IN CARS

Dick Potter pays homage to a racing great on the first anniversary of his death.

NIKOLAUS ANDREAS LAUDA A

ugust 1, 1976. By all accounts, this was the date on which the creator deemed Niki Lauda was to die.

Racing for Ferrari in the German Grand Prix held at Nürburgring on that day, Niki’s race got off to a bad start. Rain showers led him to select rain tyres, as opposed to slicks.

Stopping to change them and a blocked pit lane not only left him needing to make up ground, his still cold tyres provided scant grip on the damp track. Niki subsequently lost control of the car and hit the bank at the side of the track at Bergwerk.

The rest of that horrific crash is well documented. The car caught fire as fuel leaked out and Niki was trapped in the burning cockpit with his helmet ripped off. Several drivers stopped to help pull him from the burning vehicle. One of those drivers later claimed that “nobody realised the actual damage to Niki. The real danger he was in was not from the superficial injuries that we could see but from the deeper injury which was that to his lungs”.

Damage to his lungs, of course, was caused by inhalation of toxic fumes from 26 May 2020

the burning fibreglass. Indeed we didn’t appreciate the severity of the injury that he’d suffered. Niki recalled a decade later that he had been sitting in the car – in a temperature of about 800 degrees – for around 50 seconds. It emerged after two or three days of his hospitalisation, that it was undeniably the lung damage that was the injury putting his life in danger.

e t u b i r t A

Miraculously, Niki not only evaded the creator’s plans for him, but recovered from the crash; he resumed racing 40 days later and only missed out on the title by a single point, to James Hunt.

Born on February 22, 1949, the scion of a wealthy Viennese industrial family that opposed his daredevil driving career, Nikolaus Andreas Lauda was expected to follow in his father’s footsteps into the paper-manufacturing industry.

Niki, as he became known, had other ideas however. He wanted to become a racing driver.

Lauda financed his early career with the help of a string of loans, working www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring news his way through the ranks of Formula 3 and Formula 2. He made his Formula 1 debut for the March team at the 1971 Austrian Grand Prix and picked up his first points in 1973 with a fifth-place finish for BRM in Belgium.

Lauda joined Ferrari in 1974, winning a Grand Prix for the first time that year in Spain and his first drivers’ title with five victories the following season. He remains the only driver in F1 history to have been champion for both Ferrari and McLaren, the sport’s two most successful constructors.

Despite his great sporting successes, sadly, the accident at Nurburgring would scar Niki for life – leaving him with third-degree burns to his head and neck.

In order to hide the scars, Lauda took to wearing a, predominantly red, baseball cap in public, which became a personal trademark. Poignantly, last year on May 26 at Monaco, whilst not racing, the drivers wore red baseball caps as a gesture of respect.

I read that Niki called the baseball hat “my protection for stupid people looking at me stupidly”. I like that. I liked it, and more so, Niki, when I read that he once told a journalist: “I have an accident as an excuse

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to look ugly. Some people don’t have this excuse.” Brilliant.

Niki was revered amongst his peers both past and current. Movingly, when Lewis Hamilton took the checkered flag at Monaco 2019, he said “this one’s for Niki”.

One of the reasons – believe me I have a long list – that I hugely admired Niki, was that for years after his accident, he championed safer racecar and track designs. He urged tighter controls over driving conditions and rules governing race organisers. “Racing on substandard tracks or in unsafe weather doesn’t test courage,” Lauda told The Boston Globe in 1977. “At present, some of the Grand Prix circuits we drivers are asked to race on do not fulfill the most primitive safety requirements.

Also, the decision to call off or stop a race can’t be left entirely to the organisers, who too often put prestige before the safety of the drivers.

We need independent experts whose authority

should be supreme.” Hear, hear Niki.

The horrific injuries he sustained in 1976 were eventually to catch up with him however. On May 20, 2019, Nikolaus Andreas Lauda passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Superlatives seem trite. There are few I can write which would do justice to this sportsman – notwithstanding his business endeavours. It’s easy to say when a sportsman passes that we will not see his like again. But in Niki Lauda’s case that is the factual reality. He was unique, and so was his story.

Niki Lauda: 1949-2019

View more info online

May 2020 27

motoring news

TRAFFIC INSPECTION SERVICES LAUNCHED Following the Interior Ministry’s privatisation directives, Ebrahim K. Kanoo, in partnership with The General Directorate of Traffic (GDT), has launched technical examination centres for Toyota and Lexus vehicles at the Toyota Plaza in Tubli and Toyota Service Centre in Arad.

GDT-trained technicians are available at both locations and it is hoped the facilities will help ease congestion at the main vehicle registration centre.

They will also offer a Sadad machine for payment of contraventions as well as the Traffic Self-service Stand provided by the GDT. During Ramadan, Toyota Plaza in Tubli will open daily and Toyota Service Centre in Arad will operate daily except Fridays both from 7am-3pm and after Iftar from 8.30pm-11.30pm.

WARRANTY EXTENSIONS REASSURE MOTORISTS Genesis Middle East and Africa HQ has launched Genesis CARE, a warranty extension policy for its vehicles to support customers who may face difficulties in getting vehicle maintenance due to restricted access to service centres during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The programme aims to ensure that all Genesis vehicles with original warranties expiring between March 1 and April 30 will benefit from a warranty extension of up to three months until May 31. All warranties that are originally due to expire in May will also be guaranteed coverage until the end of the month.

Hyundai Motor Company has launched a similar programme. Hyundai CARE offers a warranty extension policy for its vehicles worldwide.

WORLD CAR OF THE YEAR The Porsche Taycan saw the checkered flag of first place in two categories: World Luxury Car and World Performance Car of the Year, at this year’s World Car of the Year Awards 2020 (WCOTY). In the performance category, it succeeded in a historic triple against the 911 and the 718 Spyder/Cayman GT4. Furthermore, the electric sports car also won World Luxury Car. Eightysix international automotive journalists voted and assessed more 50 new cars and the winners were announced during an online conference by the WCOTY organisation.

The Porsche Taycan and new 911, which were launched last year, have already won around 40 international prizes. For the Porsche Taycan, these include: • Car of the Year: Top Gear magazine (UK) • The China Green Car of the Year: Chinese Car of the Year (CCOTY) jury • German Car of the Year: German Car of the Year (GCOTY) jury.

The companies’ regional boss, Bang Sun Jeong, said: “We appreciate that many of our customers may have limited or no access to vehicle servicing during these extraordinary times.

“We wish to set their minds at ease regarding eligibility for warranty repairs and related services in the coming months. Not only do we care about our customers’ health and safety, we care about the ‘health’ and safety of their vehicles as well.”

28 May 2020

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motoring news

NEW E-COMMERCE PLATFORM MG Motors, the British-born car marque, will launch a brand-new e-commerce platform this Ramadan to help enhance its Middle East customers’ purchase experience.

This platform, which will be accessible via current MG distributors’ websites, will allow customers to select vehicles from the local distributors’ stock, reserve vehicles, conduct online payments and schedule home delivery of cars. Additionally, customers will be able to

book home test drives.

In addition to the launch of this new e-commerce platform, MG’s sanitisation drive initiative will continue in all showrooms and service centres, adding stricter sanitisation protocols for new vehicle deliveries and all vehicles received by MG service centres. The company will also be offering customers a two-year/30,000km free service package on various models during Ramadan.

VIRTUAL FACTORY TOURS

For die-hard petrol heads who are missing their automotive fix in times of lockdown, Audi is offering virtual tours of its production facility complete with experienced tour guides.

The plant in Ingolstadt is open to visitors in virtual form. Anyone interested can book an interactive tour online at http://www.audi. stream/ and experience Audi at home on their screen.

With the use of video sequences, participants learn how an Audi is made, from the first production steps in the press shop to the final manual operations during final assembly. Among other things, the processes in the body shop of the Audi A3 and videos from the Audi A4 assembly line can be seen. In addition, the tour guides present technical highlights from the Audi world and answer questions in dialogue with participants.

Online tours on other topics from the Audi brand world will follow.

CROSSOVER LAUNCHED

SPECIAL RAMADAN OFFER This Ramadan, keep your vehicle as safe as possible with exciting offers for your Mercedes-Benz exclusively from Al Haddad Motors.

Safety has always been a priority at Mercedes-Benz and, due to the current state of the world, Al Haddad Motors prioritises not only the safety of your vehicle but that of you and your family too.

Therefore, the company is offering customers complimentary vehicle disinfection and sanitisation. Customers can also take advantage of a free vehicle pick-up and drop-off service so vehicle servicing can be arranged from the www.bahrainthismonth.com

After missing its planned debut at the cancelled Geneva Motor Show, Toyota unveiled the new Yaris Cross compact SUV online to much excitedment.

The hybrid crossover utilises Toyota’s fourth generation hybrid technology and will be offered in both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive options. Built on the new GA-B platform it has the same wheelbase as the regular Yaris but is 240mm longer than the hatchback and it rides 30mm higher.

Though similar in looks to its stablemate, it has a more rugged appearance and the body is bigger, giving more room for passengers. And, as per normal with all Toyota vehicles, it is packed with safety features.

Full details of the new model are still emerging but it is expected to hit the European market early next year.

comfort and safety of their homes.

Al Haddad Motors is also offering special packages on the disinfection and odour cleaning of your vehicle’s air conditioning units. The service destroys harmful bacteria and viruses with the use of a highlyadvanced technology system making the air you breathe cleaner and safer.

Additionally, for a spend of BD100 or more Al Haddad Motors is offering a BD25 gift voucher that can be redeemed for an array of Mercedes-Benz Collection items.

Call 17 785-999, contact via @ alhaddadmotors on social media or visit www.alhaddadmotor.com.

May 2020 29

gadgets

GADGETS

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

CAMERA LENS TRAVEL MUG

This is the perfect gadget for the travel photographers among us.

This mug is not only ideal for transporting your iced or hot drinks, but it actually looks like a fully functioning camera lens complete with a detachable lid. Perfect for the home, office or on the move.

Available at: www.amazon.co.uk

RFID CARDHOLDER WALLET

Keep your details safe and secure with the Cardholder Wallet.

Not only does it protect against unwanted reading of radiofrequency identification (RFID), but it can also hold up to six cards in the protected panel and looks good while doing it.

Available at: www.menkind.co.uk

TILE MATE

Never lose your keys again with this compact little Bluetooth tracker. It attaches to just about anything, including bags, keys and other valued possessions. Or, alternatively, get the Tile Slim, perfect for wallets and passports, ensuring you peace of mind when travelling or just going about your day.

Available at: www.thetileapp.com 30 May 2020

PERFECT BAKE SMART SCALE

With 2020 now in full swing, it’s the perfect time to start taking better care of your health with the Smart Scale. This highly sensitive and intuitive device auto-scales recipes for the number of servings you need and comes with 300-plus chef-tested recipes for you to try. The whole set includes the wireless smart scale, the app, three bowls and a phone stand.

Available at: www.amazon.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

gadgets

SCRATCHMAP OF THE WORLD

This is the ideal gadget for those bitten by the travel bug. This gigantic world map is covered in a gold foil layer so you can scratch off everywhere you’ve been, and even includes some facts about the countries you’ve visited. It also looks great framed and hung up in your home for all to see.

Available at: www.menkind.co.uk

THE MASTER PAN

TABLIFT TABLET STAND

If you often find yourself unable to get into the perfect watching position when enjoying your favourite movies or TV shows, then the Tablift is here to help. Its universal design means it works well with any tablet, and the flexible legs can be folded down to a compact size or out to be propped up on your bed, couch or any other uneven surface.

Say goodbye to all your inferior pots and pans. The Master Pan comes equipped with five split sections to keep your food separate, allowing you to cook an entire meal at breakfast, lunch or dinner, all in the same place. It’s lightweight, dishwasher safe and works on all hobs excluding induction.

Available at: www.menkind.com

Available at: www.amazon.com

STAR WARS BB-8 USB CAR CHARGER

Everyone’s favourite little droid returns to help you charge your electronic devices. This adorable robot plugs into your vehicle power adapter and provides you with two charging ports that can power up two tablets simultaneously.

Available at: www.thinkgeek.com

BUSINESS LAPTOP BACKPACK

Whatever you need, this backpack will deliver. Multiple compartments allow for easy and clear organisation of your laptop, wallet, keys, phone, books, clothes and more. Comes with a built-in USB charger, as well as a theft-proof combination lock. It’s also made of water-repellent and ecofriendly material that is durable and light.

Available at: www.amazon.co.uk www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2020 31

games

GAMES

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE WHAT IS IT?

One of the greatest adventures ever told is now remade for a new generation 23 years later, as Final Fantasy VII is reborn. In Midgar, a city controlled by the mega-conglomerate Shinra Electric Company, rebellious eco-terrorists, Avalanche, seek to destroy Shinra’s reactors which suck up Mako, the lifeblood of the Planet, that they use to power their metropolis. Can Cloud, a former member of Shinra’s elite combat force now joined with Avalanche, and his small band of rebels, stop them?

GAMEPLAY

The game’s combat and exploration mechanics are superb. Hallmarks of the old turn-based system remain in the ATB (Active Time Battle) gauge, enabling you to unleash special abilities, wield spells or use items, when a segment of the meter fills up. Without the ATB meter, you can freely strike your foes, wearing down their stamina until they’re 'staggered', modifying your attacks with a press of triangle. It's an incredibly flexible battle system that ensures combat encounters remain novel and exciting, the succession of bosses requiring tactical thinking rather than absent-minded button mashing to overcome.

GRAPHICS

Visually, the game is unlike almost anything else currently available on PS4. The level of graphical fidelity is mind-boggling as the sprawling impoverished sectors of Midgar – a vast circular city comprised entirely of steel and stone –portray a dark grey spaghetti of pipes, girders and sheet metal suspended above the slums. Every corner of Midgar is caked in grime, its citizens surrounded by discarded rubbish and innumerable signs of neglect.

DOOM ETERNAL

Experience the ultimate combination of speed and power with the next leap in push-forward, firstperson combat. As the Doom Slayer, return to take your vengeance against the forces of Hell. Doom Eternal is set to a new pulse-pounding soundtrack composed by Mick Gordon. Fight across dimensions as you slay new and classic demons with powerful new weapons and abilities!

32 May 2020

VERDICT:

A near-perfect nostalgia trip.

RATING:

HALF-LIFE: ALYX

Half-Life: Alyx is Valve’s VR return to the Half-Life series. It’s the story of an impossible fight against a vicious alien race known as the Combine, set between the events of Half-Life and Half-Life 2. Playing as Alyx Vance, you are humanity’s only chance for survival. The Combine’s control of the planet since the Black Mesa incident has only strengthened as they corral the remaining population in cities.

Immerse yourself in deep environmental interactions, puzzle solving, world exploration and visceral combat.

RESIDENT EVIL 3

A terrifying new version of the classic third game in the blockbuster survival horror series, Resident Evil 3 tells the story of S.T.A.R.S. member Jill Valentine, as she escapes from a crumbling Raccoon City, and the relentless Nemesis. Capcom’s proprietary RE Engine combines photorealistic visuals and a modernised control scheme with the series’ intense combat and puzzle solving to deliver the heart-pounding final chapter of Raccoon City’s collapse.

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websites

Your local search engine for restaurants and hotels in Bahrain

websites

SITE: www.coolhunting.com RATING: VERDICT: A great resource for diving into culture.

WHAT IS IT?

CoolHunting is a really cool publication platform that uncovers the latest in design, technology, style, travel, art and culture. If you are into art, architecture and culture, then this website is perfect for you. You’ll find lots of interesting articles here, and the best part is that there are new pieces almost every day.

Hotels

Restaurants

40m

25m Entertainment

THE GOOD

There are articles on practically any topic you can think of here, with plenty of them going into surprising depth for a free resource. There are many quirky facts and figures backed up with strong sources too.

Cafés

THE BAD

There’s no option to bookmark to see your favourite authors when they post a new article, so you’re left with the slightly cumbersome option of scanning each new article every day or searching their name to see if they’ve contributed another piece.

www.gnoosic.com

Gnoosic is your go to spot for new music recommendations. It asks for three of your favourite bands and, based on your interests, spits out an artist that you might like. You then have the option to ‘like’, ‘dislike’, or mark it as something you aren’t familiar with – which further refines the results. This will be enjoyable for music enthusiasts who are looking for a musical adventure.

www.patatap.com

Patatap is an interactive website that responds to the keys on your keyboard with a sound and a brief animation.

Now imagine hammering in entire sentences – and you got an explosion of sounds, colours and movement!

Once you start typing in random paragraphs, it becomes almost hypnotic, in a way. A fun way to unwind and relax.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

65m

20m Serviced Apartments 35m

www.thebhrg.com The Bahrain Hotel & Restaurant Guide 2018 @bahrainhotelandrestaurantguide

@thebhrg

Featuring: Apps / Updates & Blogs / Promos & Deals / Events / Menus / Videos / Photos / Answer Reviews & Chats / Listings / Digital Campaign

May 2020 33

apps

APPS REVIEW

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

APP: YUMMLY RATING: VERDICT: A great app for culinary wizards..

WHAT IS IT?

You can use Yummly to discover recipes based on cuisine and diet, save your picks to your digital recipe box, and even get recipe recommendations based on your grocery list. This smart cooking sidekick also includes video tutorials to walk you through new techniques.

THE GOOD

The app has a staggering two million recipes from the best culinary minds around, with offerings from Yummly’s test kitchen and other top recipe sites and food blogs like Allrecipes, Epicurious, Food52, Smitten Kitchen and more. They can also be personalised to your taste and dietary needs.

THE BAD

The app interface could do with a major update. It’s a pain to log in and you can only log in via Google or Facebook, not with an email.

It also doesn’t work too well in portrait mode compared to turning your phone landscape.

APP: MASSE

APP: WAZE Traffic is the worst and Waze is the lifeline you’ve been looking for. The anti-traffic app collects user-shared information in a local area to provide traffic and accident updates in real-time. Waze boasts being the world’s largest community-based navigation and traffic app, so you can count on the fact that GPS info will be current and you’ll get where you’re going faster.

34 May 2020

Founded by former product managers from Moda Operandi and Jet, Masse is a peer-to-peer product recommendations platform that, unlike Instagram and other options on the market, has no sponsored content or paid-for recommendations. Sign up for the service and you get recommendations on everything from candles and headphones, to moisturisers and boots, based on actual opinions on products.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tv releases

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

I Am Legend

The classic film finally comes to streaming services. Will Smith is incredibly moving as a man who has lost everyone he loved and knew but still, in spite of himself, keeps trudging forward.

It’s a tricky performance, and its strength is in Smith’s unwillingness to ever go for the easy out. You can tell he’s invested in what a man like this would go through, and he appears legitimately damaged from it. Not everything in this movie works, but it might be Smith’s most underappreciated performance.

Tales From the Loop

Inspired by the wondrous paintings of Simon Stålenhag, Tales From The Loop explores the mind-bending adventures of the people who live above the Loop, a machine built to unlock and explore the mysteries of the universe – making things previously relegated to science fiction, possible. Stars Rebecca Hall and Jonathan Pryce.

The Last Kids on Earth: Extraction

Marvel franchise favourite Chris Hemsworth plays a black-market mercenary recruited to rescue the kidnapped son of an international crime lord in this Netflix Original thriller.

Hemsworth is joined by Stranger Things actor David Harbour in the cast of the film, which is based on a script penned by veteran MCU director Joe Russo. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Book 2

The Lighthouse

As the wavering cry of the foghorn fills the air, the taciturn former lumberjack, Ephraim Winslow, and the grizzled lighthouse keeper, Thomas Wake, set foot in a secluded and perpetually grey islet off the coast of late-19th-century New England. For the following four weeks of backbreaking work and unfavourable conditions, the tightlipped men will have no one else for company except each other, forced to endure irritating idiosyncrasies, bottled-up resentment and burgeoning hatred. Is there an escape from the wall-less prison of the mind?

The second chapter of this animated saga picks up where the previous instalment left off. Thirteenyear-old Jack and some of his classmates are attempting to survive in a post-apocalyptic world filled with monsters, zombies and all manner of supernatural threats. Based on the hit children’s book series by Max Brallier, the series features a cast of young voice actors, as well as the voices of Mark Hamill, Keith David, Bruce Campbell and Rosario Dawson.

Coffee and Kareem

This Netflix Original stars Ed Helms and Taraji P Henson as new couple Detroit cop James Coffee and Vanessa Manning, who are stacked against a formidable adversary – Vanessa’s 12-year-old son, Kareem. As Kareem (Terrence Little Gardenhigh) schemes to scare away his mum’s new boyfriend, he also manages to implicate his family in a cabal of criminals.

May 2020 35

music

John Anderson

THE STROKES The New Abnormal Verdict: Fresh impetus gets band back on track.

What’s the story?

The New Abnormal is the sixth studio album by American rock band, the Strokes. It’s their first album in seven years, following Comedown Machine. The album was produced by Rick Rubin and recorded at his Shangri-La studio in Malibu, California, with additional recording taking place at studios in Los Angeles County and Hawaii. Its sound features a mix of indie rock, new wave, post-punk and electronica. The Strokes began performing songs from the album for the first time at different shows in 2019, before revealing the track list and cover art in early 2020. The cover art features the 1981 painting Bird on Money by American artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.

Worth a listen?

On The New Abnormal, The Strokes stay in an emotional space and the results are some of their most rewarding music, although, a little disappointingly, it’s short on the rockers for which they’re famous. On Bad Decisions, a quintessential example of the Strokes’ knowing hedonism that melts some Modern English into its tumbling beats and guitars, Julian Casablancas’ jubilance comes from shedding a relationship that was going nowhere. Bitterness is inescapable even on the hazy synth jam Eternal Summer. But on these lengthy, brooding songs about leaving and being left behind, the Strokes sound more engaged and united than they have in years. They also sound more mature. Just how raw the band’s emotions are on The New Abnormal is surprising and riveting. Full of passion, commitment and creativity, this album marks the first time in a while that The Strokes have made truly exciting music.

36 May 2020

Years The years started piling up for John Anderson. He spent the better part of four decades on the road, with his glory days of the early ’80s laying the groundwork for years of touring and the occasional comeback, and he seemed on track to stay on this course until a serious health scare in the late 2010s. Anderson kept the details quiet, but during his recovery something serendipitous happened. Dan Auerbach reached out to Anderson as a fan, but he soon became a collaborator, co-writing the 10 songs that comprise Years with the hardcore country singer and producing the album as well. Allusions to survival are scattered throughout Years but it’s hard to call it a confessional album; if Anderson has a difficult time disclosing the details of his health in public, he’s certainly not going to do it on a record. He sounds reflective, grateful to still be here singing songs and wise enough to let plenty of light into his ruminations. His performance, along with the elegant sweep of Auerbach’s production and the emotive songs, turn Years into a minor latter-day masterpiece from the country singer.

Maddie & Tae

The Way It Feels This album explores the soft territory separating country-pop and adult contemporary, singing tales of love won and lost while taking the occasional detour to play a bit of sunny cheer. Even though The Way It Feels could use a little bit more of the latter, all the besotted ballads and sad songs are impeccably crafted from head to toe. Maddie & Tae, and their cast of supporting writers, know how to sculpt tuneful, sincere country tunes and their harmonies aren›t merely convincing, but prove a balm, sounding sweet and soulful even underneath the layers of gloss. Ultimately, it is professional-grade Nashville country-pop, the kind of music that sounds richer, fuller and better with repeated plays.

Joe Satriani

Shapeshifting Alongside his formidable guitar playing chops, Joe Satriani’s recordings continue to sound fresh 18 albums in.

This is largely due to an innate yet sophisticated song writing prowess (verses, choruses and bridges) rather than stacked tracks of technically proficient riffs and solos. Satriani possesses a gift for combining and recombining styles, dynamics and various strains of lyricism from a nearly astonishing variety of genres.The Satch sound is iconic and it comes to the fore once again on Shapeshifting; this is due, in large part, to the fact that the guitarist continually seeks to reinvent himself. Each of his albums is a reaction to its predecessor, not an exercise in repetition. Shapeshifting stands out for its imagination, lyricism and infectious musicality. www.bahrainthismonth.com

WHAT’S

green

what's green

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

A NATURAL WASH Biokleen Natural Laundry Detergent is a concentrated liquid that cleans tough stains and odours while being ecofriendly, non-toxic and plant-based, with no artificial fragrance or preservatives.

This US-manufactured product contains grapefruit-seed and orange extracts; and is 100-per-cent free of metasilicates, borax or caustics. It is suitable for those with chemical sensitivities and allergies, and does not have any negative effects on rivers, streams, plants or wildlife. www.amazon.com

FOR A GOOD SCRUBBING Made with a sustainable bamboo handle and recycled plastic bristles, Full Circle’s Be Good kitchen dish brush is a great way to help the planet. Its durable bristles battle caked-on food and give your dishes that extra sparkle without harmful chemicals, leaving a small footprint on the planet. The brush bridges the gap between environmentally conscious and intelligently designed products that are also stylish, thereby combining sustainability and function without sacrificing beauty. Full Circle products also use less energy and emit fewer greenhouse gases in production. www.fullcirclehome.com

READY FOR A CUP OF JOE?

SMART LIGHTING Installing these LED Solar Powered In-Ground Lights is an innovative way of illuminating the exterior of the house and making an everlasting impact on your visitors. The durable and decorative outdoor lights are easy to install and provide the right beam angles and brightness, unlike traditional landscape fixtures. The highly effective light sensor will turn on the fixture automatically at night and off during daylight. The lights boast a waterproof design made of stainless steel. They are power-efficient and suitable for driveways, sidewalks, lawn parameters or on entrance stairs. The brightness emitted is up to 40lm, with a built-in 400mAh rechargeable battery which needs only six to eight hours to be fully charged and can last for eight to 10 hours. www.inspireuplift.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The ROK Espresso Maker is a mechanical approach to preparing coffee you can enjoy on-the-go. This gadget is one that will help conserve energy – the only power used is to boil the water for your drink. The portable product is not only for use at home, but also while camping or boating etc. The lowering of the lever arms will help achieve the right pressure to prepare the espresso. This trapped air will then force water through the ground coffee at high pressure. The environmentally-friendly manual espresso maker is created with durable engine-grade metal guaranteed to last at least 10 years. www.amazon.com

PLANT OR LIGHT? Mygdal Plantlights combine the beauty of both technology and nature, giving the world´s easiest and most fascinating way of indoor greenery. They not only light up the dark, but also bring nature indoors – even into spaces without any daylight. Thanks to the unique SmartGrow technology (patent pending), the plants don’t require any care, perform selfsufficient photosynthesis and need no watering. Each lamp is unique with a mouth-blown glass shade allowing a 360-degree view of the plants. Available in two sizes, Mygdal is a self-supporting ecosystem based on the spectral similarity between its specifically designed LEDs and sunlight. www.nui-studio.com May 2020 37

travel

LA DOLCE VITA While Italy has been one of the European countries hardest hit by the coronavirus, people around the world have fallen in love with the very spirit of the place. It was here that we first saw people making music on their balconies during lockdown. And who can forget the amazing solo performance, Music for Hope, from Andrea Bocelli at the Duomo Di Milano. We may not be able to visit yet, but here are the places we recommend for your next trip.

ROME

Known as the Eternal City, Rome certainly has more than its fair share of history, culture and tourists. From Vatican City to the Spanish Steps, via the Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine, you will be spoilt for choice. A definite ‘must-see’ is the Roman Forum, the 2,000-year-old remains of the old city, surrounded by the new. Its arches, columns and temples tell the story of life during Rome’s ancient heyday. And make sure to visit the Palatine Hill for another taste of life among the city’s historical elite.

Tip: Take a trip to La Rinascente. Yes, it’s a department store but, in the basement you’ll find the ancient Roman Aqua Virgo Aqueduct which is still in use today providing water for the nearby Trevi Fountain.

AMALFI

The Amalfi Coast, on the northern Gulf of Salerno, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rugged beauty.

Known for the lemons, which grow in terraces along the coast; a special kind of local anchovies and colourful handmade ceramics, it is hugely popular with tourists, many of them seeking to drive the hairpin bends on the mountainous roads. Instead, why not take a boat trip to the beautiful isle of Capri or a farm tour where you can learn to make pizza and taste the local speciality, limoncello?

Tip: Forsake those hairpin bends for a bird’s eye view from one of the clifftop villages, such as Conca dei Marini where you can stay in a hotel that was once a 17th century convent.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

travel

CINQUE TERRE

Meaning five lands or five towns, this area of Liguria: the coastline, the five villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore – and the surrounding hillsides, are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Not only beautiful to look at, the region in known for its seafood cuisine, local grapes and breads. Locals have built terraces into the surrounding cliffs and the area is famous for its outdoor cafés, beaches and hiking trails.

Tip: Check out Levanto, not officially one of the five towns but just as gorgeous and quieter.

TUSCANY

Think rolling fields of sunflowers and landscapes so breathtakingly beautiful they almost look unreal. Yep, you’re thinking Tuscany. Its capital, Florence, is a spot that must surely make every Itialian traveller’s hit list with some of the world’s most recognisable Renaissance art and architecture, including Michelangelo’s David statue and Botticelli’s works in the Uffizi Gallery. The Apennine Mountains in the distance vie for attention with the nearby island of Elba’s beaches on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Tip: Go off the beaten track to visit the city of Lucca, whose well-preserved Renaissance walls still encircle the old town.

SARDINIA

Though actually an island, Sardinia is firmly Italian in character and makes for a beautiful tropical island getaway. Its untouched landscape features mountains, woods, plains, largely uninhabited territories, streams, rocky coasts and long sandy beaches; a variety so great it has been defined as a micro-continent.

It’s also part of an archipelago, offering other islands to explore. While you’re there make sure to visit some the impressive caves dotted along the 2,000km of coastline – which is also great for boat trips.

Tip: Don’t miss the Giants’ Tomb archaeological site, an ancient burial chamber dating back to 2000BC. www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2020 39

notout&about

AT-HOME FUN

2

BEHNAZ SANJANA

shielding ourselves It’s another month of e coronavirus, th in the battle against s you can do to ing th re and here are mo g your home make memories durin , of course, fighting isolation days besides mes. Who said ga l over board or vir tua lly responsible and it’s no fun being socia ones? caring for your loved

Choreograph a Dance Routine

There’s no better way to get the young and the elderly moving while they’re home-bound.

Practise for a few days and record the grand finalé for posterity.

Go Camping

In your backyard or on your balcony, terrace or front porch. Go the whole nine yards with pitching a pop-up tent or sleep under the stars in sleeping bags. Don’t be shy of substituting camping essentials with whatever you have available at home. Cook your dinner on a portable grill, sing songs together under cosy blankets and grill marshmallows for a midnight snack while identifying constellations in the night sky.

Make A Fun Home Video

Here’s one in which you can include and interact with the whole fam-jam, wherever they are in the world. Choose a fun song, assign family members and friends a line or verse to record themselves lip-syncing and dancing or simply doing chores to. String individual clippings into a video (the Internet has several tutorials on video editing; a new skill you could acquire) and share it with your tribe.

Create a Family Artwork

Not everyone in the house will have the artistic streak in them, but that’s part of the challenge. Have a readymade outline to fill in with colour or start from scratch with a section dedicated to each family member. The finished piece may turn out to be a motley amalgamation of everyone’s individual style and ability, but it’ll be one to remember the stay-at-home days by.

40 May 2020

Learn a New Language

There are plenty of apps that teach foreign languages. You won’t have a better time to discover a new lingo in the company of your siblings, parents, kids or even a neighbour.

Language is a great way to learn about a distant culture and will come in handy when you start globe-trotting in the post-lockdown era.

Dress-Up Game Night

Dress as your favourite movie or TV-series character and create your own quizzes, puzzles or crosswords. Guaranteed to turn sombre evenings into raucous family competition, with every player ‘in character’ through the evening.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES

May 2020 | Issue 206

FASHION MODEST STYLING

PERFECT RAMADAN LOOKS

SS20 TRENDS REPORT PART II

BEAUTY

AT HOME TREATMENTS GET CONFERENCECALL READY

FOOD

FUN IN THE KITCHEN WITH OUIAM RECIPES FROM LIVE AND TASTE

PEOPLE WHAT FERNANDA DID NEXT

HOMES

LOCKDOWN DIY PROJECTS

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | get the look

RAMADAN STYLING

DAY TO NIGHT

Chloe

Ted Baker

Mango

Bally

M&S

Namshi Top Shop

Chloe

This look will take you from office to Iftar without looking overdone. So, if you have an informal get together with family and friends, this is the look for you. Show off your fashion chops with one of the summer’s most sophisticated pieces, the full-length pleated skirt in a dark colour. Add a top in a luxe fabric or with interesting details to balance the sobriety of the lower layer. Classic flats coupled with eye catching jewellery and a mini bag – another of the season’s hot trends – will complete your look.

Namshi Ella Pearl

The Holy Month is upon us and with it, virus allowing, come gatherings as we get together to break the fast. Follow our tips for Ramadan looks that manage to be both eye-catching and modest.

FABULOUSLY FIERCE

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May 2020

Lena & Lili

Purification Garcia

Rubeus Milano Rubeus Milano

Amal's Abayas

Dolce & Gabbana

Versace

Rene Caovilla

OK, so in our climate, you probably don’t want to go all-out with both a heavyweight suit and a cloak – though they do look rather fab. Adapt the look to suit both our climate and your style with an equally gorgeous suit featuring either a bustier, like this one from Rubeus Milano, or a waistcoat, another of summer’s coming trends. Top it with a cover-up tunic or open-fronted abaya and add to the glamour with statement footwear and accessories.

www.womanthismonth.com

FLOATY AND FEMININE

Rubeus Milano

www.womanthismonth.com

Ted Baker

Aquazzura

By Far

Chloe

Zara

Galvan Farfetch

Mango

Going girlie doesn’t have to mean boring. Channel the ethereal vibe seen at Chloe with a lightweight, full-length dress like this one from Iris & Ink. Preserve modesty and add interest with a metallic cami (though you won’t need it with this gorgeous full frock from Ted Baker). Platform sandals add height and drama while choosing interesting accessories such as a quirky handbag and jewellery will give this look some extra oomph.

Iris & Ink The Outnet

Rubeus Milano

Cos

Temperley London

Tom Ford

A lightweight embroidered overshirt/coat is a useful wardrobe addition all year round but comes in particularly handy during Ramadan when good manners suggest shoulders should be covered. This example, from Mango, will allow you to wear a skimpy top underneath.

Pair with plain trousers – either wide legs or skinnies – to let the embroidery do the talking.

We’ve gone for the satin-red killer heels but this look would be equally at home with kitten heels for important daytime meetings.

Faberge

Mango

EMBROIDERED ELEGANCE

Chloe

FASHION | get the look

May 2020

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Deema Ajlani

M&S

Coach

M&S

Fenty Beauty

FASHION | get the look

BLACK BEAUTIES

By Far Aquazzura

Namshi Swarovksi

If you are attending or planning a more formal Iftar, you can’t go wrong with black. It leans toward the traditional while still looking dressy and confident.

Both the Coach dress and the M&S separates blend different textures to lift the sombre mood and you can drive things up another notch with a slash of bold red lippie to enhance your sparkling accessories.

Leem

Kate Spade

Dressing modestly doesn’t have to mean forsaking bright colours. More and more designers are catering to the modest segment of the fashion market, which means ever increasing choice. For bold brights, the Ramadan capsule from Leem gets full points.

Dulled metallic shoes won’t detract from your plumage and will work with just about anything in your wardrobe. And, your bag can either pick up one shade from your dress or go neutral, another great multitasker.

MKS Jewellery

Aquazzura

Boss

H&M

Boss

Marina Rinaldi

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL

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May 2020

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | get the look

The Outnet Christopher Kane

H&M

CAREFREE KAFTANS Whether out and about or relaxing safely with family at home, kaftans are the ideal garment for both comfort and style. Loose and flowing, they are perfect for our weather all year round. This option from H&M really leads the way with its casual lines and gorgeous pattern.

Funky cropped pants, like these from Henna Mehndi, will add interest to a tunic. And, if you’re feeling the mood, go all-out with glam accessories.

Coach

Amal's Abayas

Henna Mehndi

Kate Spade

Deema Ajlani

Namshi Haya's Closet

Namshi Swarovski

Hair Accessories

www.womanthismonth.com

Namshi Haya's Closet Bally

Fenty Beauty Chloe

Sheikha Hend Faisal Al Qassami

To steal a famous phrase, abayas are for life, not just for Ramadan. We may be more familiar with mostly plain black everyday coverings, but the Holy Month provides the perfect excuse to shake things up a little. This stunning abaya/ dress combo from Shaikha Hend was shown at Dubai Fashion Week to great acclaim. But you don’t have to look so far – check out the gorgeous pieces from homegrown brand, Amal’s Abayas. Statement jewellery and a dusting of shimmering powder will complete the look.

Namshi Haya's Closet

AMAZING ABAYAS

May 2020

45

news

BRAND EXPANDS E-COMMERCE PLATFORM

Tommy Hilfiger has expanded tommy.com, the brand’s online flagship across the Middle East following its launch in Dubai a year ago. The tommy.com sites in the region are available in Arabic and English, and build on Tommy Hilfiger’s strategy to drive digitisation across the business and grow its online community by reaching the next generation of consumers.

Through the platform, consumers now have access to the widest selection of Tommy Hilfiger labels in the region.

Also available are the collaborative collections, such as TommyXLewis co-created with six-time FIA Formula One World Drivers’ Champion, Lewis Hamilton.

TOP TIER TRANSPARENCY

FASHION BOOK OF THE YEAR

With high fashion comes high tension which is laid bare in a new book by ExVogue editor André Leon Talley, once famed as a great friend and frequently photographed with Vogue Editor in Chief Anna Wintour. In The Chiffon Trenches: A Memoir he writes of their years together and lays into Ms Wintour claiming she unceremoniously dumped him for being “too old, too overweight and too uncool”.

He claims their friendship left him with “huge emotional and psychological scars”.

The book doesn’t go on sale until September but there are bound to be other great anecdotes of his 30-plus years in the fashion industry.

ACQUA FOR LIFE INAUGURATES SECOND DECADE Acqua for Life is Giorgio Armani’s initiative focusing on delivering universal access to drinking water in water-scarce regions.

The initiative was launched The initiative was launched in 2010, the same year the United Nations recognised the right to water and sanitation as a human right, and it has been a commitment for the brand ever since.

As of today, the initiative has invested more than BD3.7 million worldwide. As

FASHION DOES ITS BIT

Huge fashion brands across the planet are doing their bit in the fight against the coronavirus converting factories, which usually produce highend handbags and couture gowns, into production lines for non-surgical facemasks and coveralls for health workers.

Louis Vuitton announced via Instagram that it was joining the global effort to make more

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May 2020

H&M Group has been named number one out of 250 fashion brands in the latest Fashion Transparency Index, which ranks companies according to how much information they disclose about their suppliers, supply chain policies and practices, and social and environmental impact. The fashion industry has been known for having a complex and opaque supply chain.

Transparency has been a cornerstone of H&M Group’s sustainability work. Back in 2013, H&M Group was one of the first global fashion retailers to make its supplier list public. Since then, the group has been taking steps to make it more accessible for customers to know where their products are made.

The brand is also known for its use of ethically sourced materials and its Conscious Collection.

a result, 413 water supply systems have helped over 217,000 people in 15 countries across three continents.

Acqua for Life enters its second decade with eight active water projects: one each in Greater China, Madagascar, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Tanzania and Zimbabwe and two in Nepal.

Photographer Viviane Sassen collaborated with Acqua for Life for the second time to mark the moment in Nepal.

supplies to protect healthcare workers. British company Burberry said it was using its global supply chain "to fast-track the delivery of 100,000 surgical masks to the UK National Health Service, for use by medical staff". And, in Italy, Prada started the production of 80,000 medical overalls and 110,000 masks for healthcare workers in the Tuscany region at a factory kept open specifically for the task. www.womanthismonth.com

Whatda Fernan t x e N Did Liz chatted to r e m m a h Lang r latest Fernanda tails of he e d e r a h s n.

O’Reilly to ld of fashio r o w e h t ventures in

H

ers is a name you will be familiar with from WTM over the years; first she was a fashion consultant, then editor. But prior to joining your favourite Bahrain-based mag, Fernanda Langhammer already had a long history in the industry in her native Brazil – from running a trio of fashion magazines to organising shows and even creating her own designs.

So, what’s our favourite fashionista up to these days? Well, the answer turns out to be quite a lot. After parting ways amicably with WTM, she turned her thoughts to her first love – styling.

First came Facebook and Instagram pages for The Godet (named for the piece of cloth sewn into a skirt or dress which makes it flare). Here she showcases her own personal style with photoshoots and videos, also giving followers the chance to ask questions. You’ll be seeing WTM sharing her posts in the future and her website thegodet.com has more info.

She will also be offering her own take on personal styling once restrictions are lifted. “Style is not about your size or age; it’s about how you feel about yourself and how you put your clothes together. I love helping women create new looks. Honestly, how many of us have things in our wardrobes that we never wear because we liked the look of them in the shop, but they just seem different at home? Often, the problem is the way we are looking at the clothes, so

www.womanthismonth.com

PEOPLE | interview my aim is to offer ladies a new pair of eyes and help them create looks that make them feel both stylish and comfortable, whether that’s for work or leisure.”

And that leads us on to the topic of shopping. Fernanda explains: “I got to thinking about how women shop. Lots of us hate the idea of trawling the malls so how about a Styling Box? A bit like a book club, where you sign up for a given amount and each month you receive a box of items, tailored to your tastes. It could be anything from a small amount, where ladies will receive accessories with ideas on how to style them, to whole outfits. I know I would certainly go for something like that, as would a lot of the women I speak to. You know you’ve got a guaranteed surprise coming every month.

Chalk it up as self-care if you like. So, that’s definitely in the pipeline.

“I'm also working on a different concept, unifying my vegan cooking and fashion but that’s a work in progress at the moment.”

And, as to dressing during isolation, Fernanda concludes: “This is the best moment to experiment with your wardrobe and test different ways of dressing the same piece. You have the time and testing ideas, mixing pieces you would not normally wear together is a way of optimising your wardrobe.” https://web.facebook.com/thegodet/ https://www.instagram.com/thegodet/

May 2020

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Loewe

Kate Spade

Gucci

Ingie

Attuale - Sir

FASHION | trend

Loewe

r e e Sh ek e h C

WTM brings you the second of a two-part report detailing the hottest trends from the SS20 runways.

Wear the trend with confidence with the addition of a nude-coloured body suit, as seen at Loewe, or go for a piece with strategically placed decoration, such as the fabulous feather-adorned dress from Giambattista Valli.

Ritu Kumar

Most of the pieces that have, so far, found their way onto mainstream sites such as matchesfashion.com and modaoperandi.com are in black, so if you spot something like Valentino’s tobacco-hued overshirt, snap it up.

Chloe

Loewe

Kristina Fidelskaya

‘Less is More’ was very definitely the case on this season’s runways.

From lingerie-inspired tops to short shorts, designers have never been more determined to get us flashing the flesh. So, it’s no surprise that transparent sheers were all over the place from barely there, in many guises, at Loewe to gorgeously demure overgarments at Ritu Kumar and lacy knits at Kade Spade.

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www.womanthismonth.com

www.womanthismonth.com

Attuale Vintage

Max Mara Weekend

Max Mara Weekend

Christopher Kane

Ralph Russo

Current-Elliot X Vampire's Wife

Valentino

Giambattista Valli

Sally Lapointe

Molly Goddard

FASHION | trend

Top Tip

e nude pping th a w s y d or b e colour bright re Add som r something in fo e. body suit e-catching shad y e r e anoth

May 2020

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FASHION | trend

Gucci

Loewe

Kate Spade New York

Dolce & Gabbana

Gucci

This trend is super-easy to wear, the trousers are the forerunner on our beloved bootcuts; made to make your legs look longer. And the smart, ‘70s-style pants and skirt suits are ideal for a working wardrobe. For an awesome summer vibe, head back that little bit further with Dolce & Gabbana’s blowsy ‘50s prints and head scarves.

And, if you just want to chill out, psychedelic summer kaftans never go out of style.

Paule Ka

Probably my favourite of this season’s trends. Designers have come over all retro, harking back to the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s (and thankfully leaving out the ‘80s, the ‘decade that style forgot’) and there were some fabulous looks in this vein on the spring-summer runways. Gucci sent models out in psychedelic prints, Loewe and Rubeus Milano were channeling bell-bottoms to the max and Paule Ka took inspiration from one of the original supers with skintight sweaters and mini skirts in clashing pinks and reds.

Paule Ka

Rubeus Milano

TURN BACK TIME

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www.womanthismonth.com

Gucci

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton

FASHION | trend

Top Tip

Paule Ka

Valentino

Rubeus Milano

Gucci

Marc Jacobs

Valentino

These suits lend themselves to lower-heeled shoes or even kitten-heel sandals to keep the retro feel going.

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May 2020

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BEAUTY | styling

REC

VIDEO WOW

Behnaz Sanjana

No matter where you work from, the office or your home, video calling has become the need of the hour. The first impression is often a lasting one, and you don’t want the webcam to mar your efforts at making a great one. Take our pointers to look professionally puttogether in your online meetings.

To come across as credible and confident in virtual meetings, it’s not enough to run a comb through your hair and ensure the remnants of your last snack aren’t stuck between your teeth. Not only does the webcam give you less leeway to exploit your best angle, it could also amplify your skin’s imperfections and exaggerate your dark circles.

Not something that you want colleagues and business associates to make a mental note of.

CONTROL WITH CONTOUR

A subtle powder contour can help take the attention off what may be your pet peeves – a wide forehead, a frumpy jawline or a chubby face. Apply along the outer half of your crease as you do your eyeshadow, and smudge slightly outward to elongate and define the eyes in a jiffy.

On the lower lids, it can fill in for eye pencil without looking harsh. For the lips, dusting what’s left on your brush along the cupid’s bow and curve of the lower lip makes them look effortlessly fuller.

They’ll be hanging on your every word.

BLUSH HAS BANDWIDTH

A little colour on your cheeks prevents that washed-out look. Dab on a salmon, peach or taupe shade to maintain the seriousness of your ‘office’ look while giving it a healthy, youthful element. Make it multitask as eyeshadow with a quick swipe on the mobile lid for added depth.

MASCARA IN THE MATRIX

You may be low on time or inclination to blend seven shades of eyeshadow and manage symmetrical eyeliner application.

If there’s only one thing you can do to your eyes before a video call, let it be mascara. A couple of coats will make you look bright-eyed and awake. If you take the trouble to curl your lashes before this, all eyes will be on you, trust us.

And nobody will be able to guess you’re in pajamas under that fancy blouse.

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May 2020

KEEP LIPS IN THE LOOP

LAY THE GROUND WORK

Taking the time to pat on a foundation, or at least a good BB cream, is important to have an even on-screen face. In this case, it’s not a beauty faux pas to go slightly over the top with coverage. But be sure to pull it down your neck too, for a flawlessly even look.

Even if bold, matte lips are your signature office style, stay away, unless you want your pucker to look patchy or narrow on video call. Gloss is another one to ditch; the camera usually relays it as too shiny, making it distracting. Stick with a tinted lip balm for a hint of colour without looking overdone, or, a nude demi-matte lipstick that doesn’t allow your lips to blend into your face.

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BEAUTY | tips

AT-HOME

Beauty

Behnaz Sanjana

Beginning to feel like a neanderthal without the services of your friendly neighbourhood beauty parlour? Take these at-home steps to keep looking and feeling your best, even if you are hardly stepping outside of your own front door (raise your hands all those who dress for a cocktail party to go grocery shopping).

SKIN

While your facialist is also in social distancing mode, stick to your skin care routine, or build on one. Remember to exfoliate at least twice a week.

Granulated sugar or oatmeal mixed with your face wash is a natural, twoin-one solution to smoothen and brighten skin. If mixing up face masks from pantry staples, like cinnamon, honey, chickpea flour, yogurt, chamomile and turmeric, is too much for you, rely on sheet masks to hydrate and nourish skin while you watch your favourite TV show. Using genuine products with natural ingredients like aloe and manuka honey pays dividends in the long run.

NAILS

HAIR

There will come a day when you need to let your nail paint go. Peeling off chipped shellac while worrying if the apocalypse is near is not a good idea. Place cotton soaked in acetone directly on top of each nail and wrap with a small piece of foil. Wait 10-15 minutes for the polish to come off. An acetone-free remover is best for regular polish. File nails short to give no hiding place to germs. A cuticle pusher helps to gently press unsightly cuticles close to the nail bed. Leave cutting cuticles to the professionals. The liquid from a Vitamin E capsule makes for great cuticle oil and can also soften rough bits around the nails. Finish off with a decadent hand cream and use it every night to keep up your home manicure.

If your hair misses the attention of your favourite salon sister, there are masks you can whip up in your kitchen. Try aloe vera, eggs or nourishing oils like coconut, olive and almond for strengthening roots, and avocado, banana or yogurt for banishing frizz. Add lemon juice or a few drops of tea tree oil to keep the scalp fresh and dandruff-free. When the mane is welltamed, split ends are less evident, and so is your overdue haircut.

If the grey peeking out is causing dread of those official video meetings, befriend a temporary root touch-up colour. These are available in various shades and modes of application at local pharmacies or online. The most common is in spray form (which is quick, though potentially messy), but the crayon, brush and mascara wand versions allow for precision coverage of fine and baby hair along the forehead, temples and ears.

Take this as an opportunity to give your hair a rest from ammonia, peroxide and similar baddies found in permanent dyes.

EYEBROWS AND LASHES

Stay on top of eyebrow overgrowth by plucking the extra hairs every few days.

If your eyelash extensions are on the wane, pulling them out will result in losing your real lashes. Use a gentle oil on a wipe or cotton ball to rub along the lash line to get the fake lashes off. Applying quality castor oil with a small, flat makeup brush to lashes just before bed encourages them to grow faster. www.womanthismonth.com

May 2020

53

BEAUTY | new products A RAMADAN SURPRISE

Spread some beauty this Holy Month with at 10-day calendar featuring a selection of 10 beauty surprises from the Sephora Collection. You will love the array of favourites, including makeup must-haves and indulgent skincare. Whether for an Iftar or Suhour makeup look, perfect your pout with the Lip Liner To Go, and pair it with the Cream Lip Stain for a stunning colour and soft feel. Once you try the addictive Panoramic Effect Volume Mascara Cinescope, you’ll never let your lashes flutter without it. The beauty box also contains skin-hydrating essentials: the Coconut Face Mask and Acai Smoothie Mask.

A CLEVER BEAUTY TOOL

Just because you’re at home, doesn’t mean you can’t look good! This Ramadan make sure your makeup stays ON point and OFF your hijab with the Modbeautykeeper. This hijab protector ensures you keep modest and tidy while applying your complexion products. The first of its kind in the world, it’s a perfectly practical gift this Ramadan. The secure, onesize, adhesive enhanced fabric protector can be used three to five times. It is made in Dubai and is cruelty-free and environmentally friendly.

A TASTEFUL ASSOCIATION

OH THOSE CHEEKS!

L’Occitane and Pierre Hermé have collaborated to present the 86 Champs Intense Fragrance Collection. Architect of taste and passionate creator, Pierre Hermé, imagines unexpected associations, assembling olfactory notes with genius and expert intuition. The lineups include Musk Rose; a velvety and voluptuous woody floral musk with a sensual blend of rose, patchouli and subtle tonalities of candied fruits. Amber Almond is a fresh take on Oriental Vanillic, making for an encounter with warmth and freshness. The Oud Praline lineup is a tantalising, hypnotising Oriental gourmand.

Fenty has unveiled the Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush – a light-as-air, non-greasy cream blush that instantly melts into skin for an effortless wash of colour with a no-fuss, naturallooking flush in 10 sheer shades. The blush gives the impression that you’ve been pampering your skin with sun, sleep and plenty of water. It’s easy to use, impossible to overdo and comes in a lineup of 10 shades created by Rihanna and designed to enhance every complexion with a youthful glow. Its sweat- and water-resistant formula smooths over skin without feeling sticky or greasy.

LIPS TO COVET

YSL Beauté introduces a new member of the Rouge Pur Couture family: The Slim Sheer Matte. With a medium coverage that is easy to build on, unlike many matte lip colours, it feels lightweight and comfortable, all day long. Dress your lips in sheer matte rouge; enhance their beauty with a light veil of luminous colour. This lipstick is the ultimate in understated looks, bringing an air-brushed finish and comfortable feel in 12 outstanding shades created to form the perfect wardrobe of lip colours by Global Beauty Director, Tom Pecheux.

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BEAUTY | news

RECYCLABLE TOOTHPASTE TUBE

Global cosmetic packaging wholesaler, Albéa, has created an innovative toothpaste tube made with HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) for Colgate-Palmolive. Thanks to the use of this material, this tube is recognised as recyclable. Under development for more than five years, it has been launched in the UK under the Colgate Smile for Good brand.

According to a recent Colgate-Palmolive survey, almost two thirds of people in the UK are not aware that toothpaste tubes made with conventional methods cannot be recyled. The company says toothpaste alone accounts for an estimated 20 billion tubes annually around the world. To limit the impact of the most widely used forms of plastic packaging that up until now could not be recycled, Colgate has decided to share the technology with competitors.

ECO-FRIENDLY BEAUTY

L’Occitane is considering eliminating the use of the refill pack and replacing it with a fountain solution. Since June 2019, the brand has been experimenting the concept with three in-store refillable shower gels at points of sale in Provence, Germany and Spain. The experiment involves successful brand references: Verveine Classique, Verveine Karité and Verveine Agrumes – popular products for which customers return for more. Reflecting the spirit of the brand, bottles are aluminium standard packs that come in 250- and 500-ml formats, with a one-time purchase price. The consumer can then choose the preferred bulk shower gel at one of the fountain taps. A pump is also offered free, with the mention ‘non-recyclable element.’

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GET TROLLED

Korean beauty brand, The Crème Shop, unveiled The Crème Shop x Trolls World Tour Collection just a few days after the premiere of the Trolls World Tour movie. There are nine new products, including seven skin-care products, as well as a beauty sponge and headband.

Each piece comes with a cute photo of one of the Trolls from the movie. The Shea Butter Hand Cream comes in two different scents, one floral and the other fruity. Masks include Renew and Glow, Hydrate and Soothe and lastly, Brighten and Restore. The Plush Spa headband is perfect for keeping your hair out of your face while masking and the Classic Blending Sponge is a pink, teardropshaped makeup applicator designed with slightly darker musical note patterns.

BLEAK BEAUTY PROJECTIONS ALUMINIUM DEEMED SAFE

The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) which responsible for providing the EU Commission with opinions on health and safety risks of non-food consumer products, has adopted its final opinion on the safety of aluminium in cosmetics.

The Committee, which gathers 17 independent experts in chemistry and toxicology, considers aluminium safe for use in antiperspirants, toothpaste and lipsticks in the concentrations where these products are usually formulated and marketed. According to the committee, recent studies show that aluminium is hardly absorbed by the skin, including freshly shaved skin, and is not stored in the skin.

Management consulting firm, Kline, has projected that the US beauty market could decline by 2.5 per cent due to the pandemic, the steepest drop since World War II. Kline’s forecasting analysis clusters beauty categories into four groups: Rescue, such as hand sanitisers and liquid hand soaps, that will experience spiked levels; Everyday basics, like shampoos and deodorants, which consumers are expected to more or less use as normal; Soothing solutions, such as facial skin care and nail polishes, which are expected to decline near term but may benefit from consumers turning to them as a treat and/or to maintain or establish a part of their routine they can still control; and lastly, the can-wait categories, including fragrances and colour cosmetics, which are expected to decline sharply during social distancing for the health crisis and will continue to suffer during the economic fallout in the years to come.

May 2020

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LIFESTYLE | well-being Ok, so it made us stock our pantries to bursting point, purchase boxes of facemasks and gloves, and give up the things we took for granted. While we have become proficient with the measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, how this new (temporary) normal takes a toll on one’s mental health may be overlooked.

No matter how much Dalgona coffee you whip up and Netflix you binge-watch, there’s always that terrifying thought of the virus knocking on your door. Not to forget the additional responsibilities that every household has had to undertake during this period. It helps to remember that stressing about the future can be counterproductive. Corticosteroids, the group of stress hormones, can greatly weaken your immunity – not something one can afford at present. Effectively dealing with virus-induced stress while in social isolation will keep you, your family and society resilient in tough times.

A Novel Perspective Behnaz Sanjana looks at how one can nurture mental wellness and stave off the stress in times of a global pandemic.

Maintaining the routine helps those who work from home. Adhering to fixed times to wake up, sleep and carry out official and domestic tasks helps in better productivity and taking each day as it comes. Break off from office work for the day by leaving your work-fromhome space and engaging in other activities.

Avoiding conflict when members of the family are inmates of the same cell is paramount.

Understand that your co-inhabitants could also experience silent panic attacks, so make an effort to be polite, empathetic and kind. It helps to prevent full-blown fights stemming from which movie to watch and what to eat for lunch.

Investing in yourself, by way of time or resources, is a way to take a positive look at the future. Taking an online class, reading that self-help book you put away for ‘when I have the time’, creating visual or culinary art enables you to reaffirm faith and confidence in yourself and takes your mind off the doom and gloom.

Exercise the body, but don’t forget the mind. A good workout lets the endorphins lighten up the mood, but tending to your mental health also has great payoffs, especially in the

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current circumstances. Practising mindfulness (guided meditation can help newbies) is most effective for curbing stress, anxiety and depression, thereby boosting physical health.

Positive affirmations and playing with a pet can help too.

Reaching out to others is a valuable means of catharsis. Text messages, jokes and memes serve a limited purpose, especially if you or someone you know lives by themselves. Have a genuine telephone conversation with the aged aunt, drop off groceries to the retired neighbour, or virtually hold a hand that may feel most vulnerable at this time.

Don’t over-think it. What does the future look like? Where is the world headed? What about the economy? At this point, nobody can tell for sure. Curb your appetite for the latest piece of news every minute of the day and concentrate on adopting thoughts on how you can keep yourself and your community safe.

Gratitude changes everything, it’s said.

Counting your blessings (like having a proper home to be practising social distancing in, to begin with) will take your mind off the worry.

Thanking those who add value to your life has a lasting, two-way effect.

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LIFESTYLE | well-being

WELL-BEING

CATS WITH THE CORONA

Two cats in New York, living in separate areas of the state, have tested positive for COVID-19 with mild respiratory problems.

They are expected to make a full recovery, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The owner of one of the cats tested positive for the virus, while the household of the other did not have any confirmed cases. The agency said the disease may have been transmitted to this cat by mildly ill or asymptomatic household members or through contact with an infected

person outside its home. The CDC and the Agriculture Department don't recommend routine testing of pets as they don't play a role in spreading the virus. While humans can likely infect their pets, scientists don't think pets play a role in transmitting the virus to humans. A study published earlier in April found that cats are highly susceptible to the virus, while dogs have only a low susceptibility. www.usnews.com

SMART CLOTHES

Researchers have made a strong, comfortable fabric that heats and cools skin, with no energy input. They freeze-spun silk and chitosan, a material from the hard outer skeleton of shellfish, into coloured fibres with porous microstructures. They filled the pores with polyethylene glycol (PEG), a phase-changing polymer that absorbs and releases thermal energy.

Then, they coated the threads with polydimethylsiloxane to keep the liquid PEG from leaking out. The resulting fibres were strong, flexible and water-repellent. In addition to wearing outdoors, such clothing could also be worn indoors, drastically reducing the need for air conditioning or heat. The process for making the fabric is compatible with the existing textile industry and could be scaled up for mass production. www.sciencedaily.com

SLEEP AND OBESITY LINK UPPING THE SUNSHINE VITAMIN

Public Health England is recommending people consider taking daily vitamin D supplements throughout the spring and summer as the coronavirus lockdown continues. Vitamin D, along with others, can help the body stay fit to ward off illness and infections - important during a pandemic. Some studies suggest avoiding deficiency helps our resilience to common colds and flu, although there is no evidence that vitamin D boosts the immune system. There is no evidence that it reduces the risk of catching or getting ill with coronavirus. But experts do think that supplements may have benefits during the pandemic by improving the health of people who are deficient. www.bbc.com www.womanthismonth.com

Can staying up late make you fat?

A growing body of research has suggested that poor sleep quality is linked to an increased risk of obesity by deregulating appetite, which in turn leads to more calorie consumption. But a new study published late April found that it’s not the sleep loss that leads to obesity, but rather that excess weight can cause poor sleep. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine and the University of Nevada, Reno, discovered their findings in a microscopic worm.

It was emphasised that while these findings in worms may not translate directly to humans, they offer a surprisingly good model for studying mammalian slumber. www.sciencedaily.com

DRY RIGHT

After washing one’s hands, there may still be residual pathogens on the skin.

Researchers wanted to understand which method of drying the hands removed these residual viruses most efficiently and prevented people from transferring them to surfaces. Specifically, they tested the performance of paper towels and jet dryers. It was found that both methods of hand drying “significantly reduced phage contamination of hands”. However, after using the jet dryer, the average surface contamination following hand contact was 10 times higher than after hand towel use. www.medicalnewstoday.com May 2020

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LIFESTYLE | parenting

e h T n I Fun ! n e h c t Ki

Ouiam Charkani El Hassani says teaching children to cook goes far beyond giving them culinary skills—it gives them a sense of pride and independence.

There is something so satisfying for a child, who is usually the one being served, to be able to prepare something on their own and serve it to someone else. Here are seven fun and simple ways to introduce cooking to your child. They’re especially great for the school holidays or when schools are in virus-fighting lockdown.

Set them up for success with the right tools

There are a few basic things children need to be successful in the kitchen. First, a work station they can easily reach. This can be a small table in the kitchen or you can use a kitchen stool so they can reach the counter.

They’ll also need a few child-sized tools, like a wavy chopper, apron, cutting board, small wooden spoon and whisk. But don't feel you need to buy everything at once. You can add to their kitchen tool collection over time.

Talk about safety, then back away

When you first introduce things like a wavy chopper, talk briefly about safety and any rules you might have, like keeping the work in the kitchen and keeping tools out of mouths, etc.

Then make sure not to hover as your child works. You can supervise of course, but from afar.

Introduce chopping

Isolating skills like chopping makes them easier for children to learn. Start with something easy like a cucumber. Make sure to give them a little bowl for the pieces they are slicing. Young children do better if it's really organised and they know where to put things.

Invite them to help with dinner Beyond gaining cooking skills, making a meal together really helps small children feel that they're important and a contributing part of the family.

Introduce speciality tools

There are a few small and inexpensive

kitchen tools that really help make cooking doable (and fun!) for kids. Things like an egg slicer (which is great for strawberries as well), or an apple slicer will keep things fun and interesting for your child, and let them practise with different foods.

Let them measure and mix

Measuring and mixing is one of the simplest ways kids can help in the kitchen. Choose a recipe that isn't super precise, like soup, and show your child how to use measuring spoons and cups for the ingredients. If you're worried they'll dump in way too much, have them put things into a separate bowl, and then add to the main mixture so the whole recipe isn't ruined.

Allow them to choose the activity

This may be the hardest part for parents.

Do you really want to deal with the mess of letting your child practise their culinary skills on their own whenever they wish?

The key is to set your child up for success. If they are only three years old, don't provide a lot of options so they are likely to make a huge mess. Instead, choose one simple activity like carrot slicing or peeling an egg, put everything they need on a low shelf where they can get it themselves.

Make sure to show them the whole process including washing hands before and after, and how to clean up. Make sure to specify that they should clean up the whole activity BEFORE eating the food they have prepared.

Once they have mastered the activity, including cleaning up, you can add another option. This is a great way to control the mess factor without hovering over your child, which totally ruins the fun!

Chanelmama

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LIFESTYLE | food

TASTY RAMADAN OPTIONS The ladies of Live and Taste, Laetitia and Theresa, food bloggers and authors of liveandtaste.com are back with exclusive healthy recipes to help you through fasting and boost your immunity.

GRILLED RED BELL PEPPER MAKES 2-3 PORTIONS SOUP

This soup contains immune system boosters. Did you know that red bell pepper is packed with vitamin C?

GLUTEN FREE

MAKES 1 LOAF

BANANA AND DATE BREAD

This is a vegan bread with delicious and healthy pieces of date hiding inside. It keeps you full longer the healthy way!

Ingredients

150g oats (gluten free) 150g buckwheat groats 3 ripe bananas 5 dates, stone removed and cut into small pieces

2 tbsp chia seeds 4 tbsp almond milk 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp cinnamon

Topping (optional)

1/3 banana, sliced Pinch of vanilla powder 1-2 tsp maple syrup

Method

· ·

Preheat oven to 200°C (fan).

Using a blender, pulse oats and buckwheat groats until ground into flour (it should take approximately 20 to 60 seconds depending of the power of your blender). Set aside.

·

Using a medium sized mixing bowl, mash three bananas with a fork.

·

Add the pieces of date to the banana mixture and mix again.

·

In a small bowl, mix chia seeds with almond milk and add straight away to the mashed banana and date mixture. Mix well.

·

Add half of the oat and buckwheat flour, baking powder and cinnamon to the banana and date mixture. Mix well with a wooden spoon but don’t overmix. Add the

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remaining flour and mix again until flour is well combined.

It’s OK if the batter has a few lumps.

·

Prepare a rectangle baking pan (22cm x 12 cm), lined with wax paper and pour your bread mixture into it.

·

Add topping to decorate the bread (optional): slices of banana, some vanilla powder and brush the top with a bit of maple syrup.

·

Reduce oven to 180°C (fan) and bake it in the middle of oven for around 35-40 minutes (usually the top is brownish/ gold and crusty when ready).

Take it out and let it cool down. This bread is moist and great with your choice of chocolate paste, peanut or any nut butter !

Ingredients

6 red bell peppers, washed 2 stalks of celery, chopped 1 red onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger 1 tsp turmeric powder 1 tbsp tomato paste 2 cups vegetable broth 1/2 cup of coconut milk from can (or more) Pinch of black pepper and salt

Topping (optional)

Fresh squeezed lemon Chilli flakes Roasted buckwheat groats Fresh parsley leaves

Method

• Preheat oven to 200°C (fan) and

place red bell peppers onto a lined baking tray.

• Let them roast in the oven for about 25 minutes until the skin is getting dark.

• Take the peppers out and set aside to cool down.

• Put 1 tbsp olive oil in a medium pot and fry the onion, garlic and ginger on medium heat until soft and golden brown.

• Add turmeric powder, tomato paste, salt and pepper.

• Add celery and one cup of vegetable broth. Let it simmer on medium heat for five-10 minutes.

• Meanwhile peel red bell peppers and place in a blender or mixer.

• Add ingredients from the pot to the mixer, add the remaining vegetable broth and coconut milk. Blend until smooth.

• Taste and season with some extra salt and pepper. Add more coconut milk or vegetable broth, if needed.

• Serve in two or three bowls with some Chilli flakes, roasted buckwheat and fresh parsley leaves.

More healthy recipes on www.liveandtaste.com Instagram-Facebook : live.and.taste May 2020

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LIFESTYLE | home

PROJECT

DO-IT-YOURSELF

The home probably sees more of you nowadays, and you of it. The pace of life has surely changed, leaving you with more time and energy. Now is the time to embark on a home project that you’ll be proud to share when friends come a-visiting again.

All you need is an idea of ‘what’ and the World Wide Web will give you the ‘how’.

ECO-FRIENDLY STORAGE

If you can run a basic sewing machine, this one is a handy craft activity. Vow to banish the plastic from home, and replace with cute fabric storage baskets.

PLAY WITH PAINT

STRING LANTERNS

A ball of yarn, some balloons and highstrength gum lying about the house can be turned into gorgeous lighting reflecting the festivity of Ramadan and Eid. Find out how here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=W1zeKmPP74I

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May 2020

You won’t get a better time to paint or re-paint all that your heart desires – that wornlooking console, boring kitchen cabinets, the antique mirror or even the staircase risers to put the pizzazz into your place. Test your talents with patterns, if you have the time and skill for it.

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LIFESTYLE | home

MAKE A MEMORY WALL

Rummage through your phone’s gallery, print your favourite remembrances and frame them for when you need to retreat into your personal throwback. Using a combination of different frames makes it colourful and quirky.

SUMMER WREATH

Welcome Summer by decorating your door with a handmade wreath bursting with bright pops of colour. Put all the ribbon, art paper and decorative paraphernalia in the storage drawers to good use and get the glue gun going!

SPRUCE UP YOUR DESK

Add a planter, a spice rack to display your to-do memos or memorabilia, some hand-painted inspirational quotes, a comfy cushion and a rug to make for happier working from home.

BIRD FEEDER

It’s quieter these days; why not fill your outdoors with the happy chirping of birds to keep you company? There are so many ways to make a bird feeder by recycling and reusing things you already have at home. Install in the garden or on your balcony.

TIE-DYE PILLOW COVERS Worn out white linen reminding you of a hostel dorm? Inject some colour and personality into your bed linen with some acrylic paint and the easy tie-dye technique.

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May 2020

61

last word

In Her Shoes We go behind the scenes with Amy Bowzaylo, Clinical Director and CEO of InTouch Clinic.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

All-time favourite book or movie?

Happiness doesn’t depend upon who you are or what you have, it depends solely on what you think. Think happy and don’t quit.

Movie – The Princess Bride.

Book – A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done?

What skill would you like to learn?

Rock climb ‘The Chief’ in Squamish, British Columbia, Canada. It is 702 metres high!

To Fly.

Amy

If you could invite three people from history for dinner, who would they be?

Early bird or night owl?

Usually early bird with a rare night owl moment!

What would be your death row last meal?

Fresh garden peas and tomatoes with Cheddar and bacon perogies and a glass of Spanish red.

Dessert would be my mom’s lemon meringue pie.

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May 2020

Jim Morrison, Salvador Dali and Oscar Wilde.

Do you have a secret talent?

I can move my left eye independent of the right… taught by my dad and used in my 20s to discourage unwanted attention from guys!

Hahaha.

What did 10-year-old Amy want to be?

An orthopaedic surgeon.

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