Bahrain This Month - October 2018

MOTORING - TRAVEL - DOWNTIME

Since 1997

October 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 10 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

MAMA MIA!

Michelin-Starred Italian Flavours

INTERVIEWS

HAPPENINGS

HE Anwaer Chinese Ambassador Mohammed Almoayyed Honouring a Memory Tejbir Singh The Urban Artist

Arts

Culture

Bahrain International Music Festival Hip-Hop Artist Rick Ross Live!

Halloween Parties

FASHION

AW 18 Trends

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

Discover the taste of Italy.

Bringing to life the Trattoria Moderna experience, Primavera launches an unassuming, yet irresistible new menu with a mix of what is familiar and what excites. In many ways, Primavera adheres to the very essence of its name - a sense of renewal and beginning, with food that is fresh and bright.

Discover the new Primavera.

Call +973 1758 6499.

Building 112, King Mohammed VI Ave, Block 428 Al Seef District, Manama, Bahrain 973 1758 0000

Š 2018 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

Issue 254

Contents October 2018 HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of October 2018: 17

Wunderbar Festival

Join the Oktoberfest celebrations at Sofitel Bahrain’s Tapas restaurant.

18

The Real Thing

Photographer Mariya Gluscevic’s solo exhibition at InTouch Clinic.

30

20

Sounds of Europe

The multi-talented Mosimann live at Coral Bay. 22 Party

in Pink

Groove for charity with the American Express Pink Island Party.

24 Dedicated

to Your Special Day

The Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa hosts a wedding fair.

26 Bahrain

International Music Festival

The popular music festival will feature big acts from across the world.

28 Tributes

18

26

Galore

TribFest Bahrain, the big family-friendly music festival, returns.

30 Outrageous

October

Sofitel Bahrain gears up for various revelries this month.

34 Jazzy

Day Out

Enjoy the second edition of the big outdoor Bahrain Jazz Festival.

36 Turn

It Up to 11

The Arch Hotel’s 11 Club brings a new stylistic experience.

40

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

42 40-41

INTERVIEWS Celebrating Strong Ties

HE Anwaer, Chinese Ambassador, spoke to Liz O’Reilly ahead of Chinese National Day.

42

A Lasting Reminder

Mohammed Almoayyed tells the story behind a very special rose.

44

53 Bystander This issue’s Bystander pages captured major happenings on the island such as the four Nobel Peace Prize Laureates’ visit to the Kingdom, ASEAN Games 2018 opening ceremony and more. Our snappers were also seen at various other gatherings, including Red House Marketing’s 21st Anniversary celebration, VIP dinners, openings and various other parties.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

44

The Urban Artist

Tejbir Singh on how Bahrain’s architectural heritage has further inspired his art.

46

Veterans in Klub Takeover

48

Artistic Talent Recognised

Klub 360 is in for an exciting rebirth with a team of seasoned industry professionals.

Young Mariam Mahran talks about her inspiration and her artistic process.

FEATURE 52-53

Fashion Feature

Apple Sharma brings the hottest trends of Autumn-Winter 2018.

October 2018 5

#DiscoverYourPlanet @ seiko_prospex FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

The man who lived 31 days under water Fabien Cousteau, Ocean Explorer

“We have explored less than 5% of our ocean world,” Fabien tells us.

“As we push further, longer and deeper, we can learn a lot more.”

For the adventurous, discovery has no boundaries.

Issue 254

Contents October 2018 55

Motoring

My Life in Cars

Dick Potter shares his passion for motors.

59

Impressive E-Power

Porsche’s hybrid saloon tops a lap record at Bahrain International Circuit.

59

60-61 Motoring

Bites

BTM brings you the latest news from the motoring world.

FEATURE 64-65

Si Grazie!

A round-up of the best Italian dining options on the island.

67

New Chef, New Taste

Apple Sharma tries out the new menu at Primavera at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

69

Refined New Taste

A review of the culinary delights of Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s La Pergola by Perbellini.

70

Dining

A Celebration of Flavour

Behnaz Sanjana tastes the culinary offerings of Jashan.

72

67

69

Turning Over a Nu Leaf

One of Bahrain’s popular Asian restaurants has new surprises in store.

74

A Trademark Twist

Miam impresses with its vintage charm.

75

A Superior Seafood Experience

Suzanne Nicholas checks out Baharat’s Seafood Night.

76

Fit for the Samurai

Friday brunch at Bushido is a treat for the senses.

78

Have a Hearty Breakfast

81

Hidden Gems in Bahrain 82-83 Table Hopping

With Talabat at your fingertips, you’ll never skip your morning meal again.

Dining gossip from around the island.

Showcase

84-96 Marketplace: Latest products and services.

97-98 Business Bites 99

78

108

LIFESTYLE

What’s New: Must-have products

Downtime

100-101 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 102 Music: Top tunes

103 Computer Games: The hot games of the month 104 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 105 Apps: Essential apps 106-107 Movies: New releases

Travel

108-109 Mexico

City Calling

Regulars

99

112 Tarotscope 113 AD Index 114 WIN WIN

107

Connect with Bahrain This Month:

103 www.bahrainthismonth.com

101

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

October 2018 7

‫رفاهية‬ ‫طبيعية‬ .‫غير مكتشفة بعد‬

Luxuriant Natural Undiscovered

‫إنها تايوان‬

Taiwan!

!‫إن تايوان هي عنوان للطبيعة في أبهى حلة‬ ‫ كرز مزدهر‬،‫شواطئ لم يمسها أي خلل‬ .‫وأودية رائعة‬ .‫ ومزاراتها التاريخية‬،‫ ومناظرها الساحلية‬،‫ كذلك شواطئها‬،‫“إن تايوان بلد جمالها أخاذ‬ ‫ ويمكنك التسوق حتى‬،‫في تايوان يمكنك استكشاف حياة حضارية سريعة ومشغولة‬ ”.‫ وتناول مأكوالت مذهلة أو االسترخاء في الينابيع الطبيعية الحارة‬،‫التعب‬

Taiwan is nature at its best!

Unspoiled beaches, cherry blossoms and stunning valleys...

“Taiwan is an astounding country of beauty, culture, beaches, coastal scenery, historic shrines where you can explore buzzing urban city life, shop till you drop, eat amazing food or relax in natural hot springs”

Eastbound tourism LLC

Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Representative Office in Middle East & Turkey: Near Burj Khalifa, P.O. Box 114551, Dubai, UAE

Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Singapore Office: 30 Raffles Place, Cheveron House #10-01, Singapore 048622 s.zaidi@ttbrep.ae

www.taiwan.net.tw

@ ttbmiddleeast

THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Editor Apple Sharma Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Dick Potter, Bill Grieve, Suzanne Nicholas, Adnan Sipra Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel, Hatem Monem Photography Editor Mona Abdul Jabbar Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Roanna Fernandes Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services)

Bahrain This Month October 2018 Welcome to the October edition in which we thankfully say farewell to the scorching days of summer. The arrival of cooler weather means it’s time for the island’s festival scene to really take off with tribute acts galore at TribFest; renowned artists heading to the jazz festival and the Bahrain International Music Festival bringing in some of the best performers from across the Arab world. You can find details of these and lots of other events, such as a visit from hip-hop superstar Rick Ross and plenty of Dia de los Muertos and Halloween parties, in our extensive Happenings section. As new events are confirmed throughout the month, you can also find regularly updated details on our website at www.bahrainthismonth.com.

This month we feature reviews and chats with not one but two Michelin-starred chefs. Giancarlo Perbellini was in town for the launch of the upgraded La Pergola by Perbellini, at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain, the region’s first eatery to bear his name and menu. And Oliver Glowig paid one of his regular visits to Primavera at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, with which he has a successful collaboration. The editorial team very much enjoyed the chance to sample their dishes.

Our interviews this month include the recently arrived Chinese Ambassador, His Excellency Anwaer, who had so much to say that you can read more from him online at www.bahrainthismonth.com.

Mohammed Almoayyed told Liz the story of the rose he has created in memory of his late wife, Deena Kanoo. And we also caught up with award-winning artists Tejbir Singh and Mariam Mahran.

Still on the subject of Dia de los Muertos, this month’s travel section takes a trip to Mexico City where the festival presents a great opportunity to join in with the locals who dress up, don scary face paint and party in honour of the dead!

And, as always, we have round-ups of all the news from the dining, motoring and business sectors as well as the lifestyle section where you’ll find information on the latest films, music, apps, games and more.

So, whether you’re making the most of the cooler weather outside or spending some leisure time indoors, we’ve got you covered with your guide to a great way of life.

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Media Sales MARISE DOS SANTOS marise@redhousemarketing.com DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Digital Marketing Manager Indira Viswanathan Content Editors Adnan Sipra, Shama Uchil Video Producer Dario Godic Art & Animation Director Hatem Monem Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain Published monthly by

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

•

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

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

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

COVER Cover Picture:

Italian Dining MOTORING - TRAVEL - DOWNTIME

Since 1997

October 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 10 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

MAMA MIA!

Michelin-Starred Italian Flavours

INTERVIEWS

HAPPENINGS

HE Anwaer Chinese Ambassador Mohammed Almoayyed Honouring a Memory Tejbir Singh The Urban Artist

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

Culture

Bahrain International Music Festival Hip-Hop Artist Rick Ross Live!

Halloween Parties

FASHION

AW 18 Trends

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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

Nightlife

October 2018 9

bystander

Nobel Peace Prize Laureates’ Visit to Bahrain

A delegation of four Nobel Peace Prize Laureates visited the Kingdom at the invitation of His Royal Highness, the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. The visit was organised by Jonathan Granoff, who heads the Global Security Institute and has represented the International Peace Institute at the Nobel Peace Laureate Summits in Rome every year since 2002. The four Nobel Peace Prize Laureates, who spent four days in Bahrain, and were granted an audience by the Prime Minister, were HE FW de Klerk, former president of South Africa, HE Lech Walesa, former president of Poland, HE Jose Ramos-Horta, former president of East Timor and HE Kailash Satyarthy, children’s rights activist from India.

George, HE FW de Klerk & Mitesh

HE Kailash Satyarthy, HE Lech Walesa & HE FW de Klerk

Prof Anna K Tibaijuka & HE Justin Siberell

HE Jameel Humaidan & HE Dr Majid bin Ali Al-Nuaimi

HE FW de Klerk & Bill

Dr Hutch & Mrs de Klerk

To view more images, scan the QR code

Shaikha Mai & Shaikha Hala

HE Jose Ramos-Horta & Baba Femi A Badejo

Wendy, HE FW de Klerk & Jaap

HE Hisham Aljowder & HE Zayed Alzayani

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof

Caroline & Anne HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir

Mrs Satyarthy, Mrs de Klerk, HE Simon Martin, Shaikha Mai, HE Kailash Satyarthy & Howard King

Abdulla

10 October 2018

Nivs & Fatema

Geg

Shaikha Hala & Nouf

HE Lech Walesa being greeted by well-wishers at Sacred Heart Church

Mrs de Klerk & Jonathan Granoff

HE Amin El Sharkawi & HE Domenico Bellato

Howard King

HE Cécile Longe & Shaikha Hala

www.bahrainthismonth.com

FRENCH MANUFACTURER

Seef District, facing Ritz Carlton - MANAMA Tel. 17564444 - www.gautier-furniture.com

115 STORES WORLDWIDE

PARIS

DUBAI

LONDON

TORONTO

SINGAPORE

MOSCOW

CASABLANCA

bystander

Bahrain This Month’s 21st Anniversary

Mahdi, Muna & Julia

Red House Marketing, publisher of Bahrain This Month, celebrated its 21st anniversary with a party at LNT Gastropub, Adliya.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Friends and family of Red House Marketing celebrate the big event Viyajan & Naveen

Martin & Babette

Antony & Tokzhan

Howard & Anne

Satyawan Wendy, Jaap & Anne

Martin, Sigi, Sarina, Babette & Colin

Geg, Svetlana & Steve

Mahdi, Gemma & Hamza

Marise, Rohit, Kailas & Lini

12 October 2018

Apple, George & Vijay

Zee, Ummsiah & Geg

Ranjith & Subi – The best DAMN photographers on the whole island

Jason, Adnan, Maria & Lydia

Farheen & Vinny

Marise & Alison

Imran

Mushtak

Muna, Julia & Bill

Malik

Kate

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sophie & HE Simon Martin

Speaker Event

Capital Club Bahrain held a speaker event entitled, ‘At The Majlis’, featuring HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, former Assistant Undersecretary for GCC Affairs and Western Countries in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Amer & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran

To view more images, scan the QR code

Dr Jihan & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran

HE Hideki Ito

HE Kai Boeckmann & Shireen

HE Cécile Longe & HE Rami Saleh Al-Warikat Al-Adwan

HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir, HE Anwaer, Mouffaq & Mohamed

HE Amin El Sharkawi & HE Domenico Bellato

Korean Cuisine Week

HE Amin El Sharkawi, Sumeet, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Anwaer, HE Kemal Demirciler & HE Dr Milad Nammour

HE Koo Hyunmo & Jina

Michael, Ebru, Priscilla & Aurelia

HE Koo Hyunmo, Korean Ambassador, hosted the 2018 Korean Cuisine week at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Masterchefs of Korean cuisine, Jason & Sunlee

Kosta, Michail & Anna

Yujeong, Yerim, Layla & Eman

Mahpirat, HE Anwaer & Jawahari

Mohamed Kooheji, HE Alfred Simms-Protz (former German Ambassador) & HE Koo Hyunmo

14 October 2018

Wan, Edry & HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof

Kiley & Jennifer

Shannon & Brad

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Now open

Nail Lounge

bystander

ASEAN Games 2018

In celebration of the 5th ASEAN Games in Bahrain, the ASEAN Committee in Manama, Bahrain (ACMB) with the chairmanship of the Royal Thai Embassy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ASEAN community in Bahrain and local partners, co-organised the ‘ASEAN Games in Bahrain 2018’.

Retnani & Wani

HE Alfonso A Ver & HE Thanis Na Songkhla

Toufeeq, Shaikh Abdulla, HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & HE Thanis Na Songkhla

Elaine, HE Nor Huda & Ling

Zaty, Haniza & Syafina

16 October 2018

HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo & RAdm Saw Shi Tat

Ian, Misawadi & Arthur

Shameer, Faheem & Sherry

Fareed & Ebrahim

HE Alfonso A Ver & Rafael

HE Nor Huda, Retnani, Caroline & Camille

Tic, Alice, Miw & Boom

Basheer & Jaseer

Shameer & Namreen

Juwana, Angie, Fouz & Zahra

Mam, Choompu & Lemon

Maryam, Ahmed & Muna

Phim, Faii & Namfon

Hashim & Abdul Rasool

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

OCTOBER 2018-HAPPENINGS TALKING TECH UNTIL OCTOBER 8

WUNDERBAR FESTIVAL UNTIL OCTOBER 7

OKTOBERFEST @TAPAS

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Join the “wunderbar” Oktoberfest celebrations at Tapas, as it brings a great German experience to Bahrain by hosting one of the largest volksfests on the island! Live the experience as you join in the celebrations of all things German and enjoy a selection of traditional Deutsch gastronomy and ales, complemented with live German entertainment and lots of hidden surprises.

Call 33 236-772 or 17 636-363

BAHRAIN TECH WEEK

Various

Hosted by the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), in strategic partnership with Tamkeen, Bahrain Tech Week 2018 will bring together technologists from across government, major international and regional private sector entities as well as the region’s most exciting start-up talent.

The week will showcase opportunities for innovation and growth in Bahrain’s thriving technology sector and will explore how emerging digital trends are revolutionising industries across the Middle East. Big names taking part include Amazon Web Services, MIT Enterprise Forum, Huawei, Web Summit and more in an exploration of the latest tech trends set to transform the region’s digital landscape.

From a bankruptcy forum to the 10th edition of the Rowad Majlis, there are numerous interesting and exciting events happening throughout the week.

Visit bahrainedb.com

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE OCTOBER 3

ALL ABOUT CARS OCTOBER 2

AUTOMOBILE BUSINESS FORUM

The Capital Club

Some of the motor industry’s heavy hitters will be getting together for a panel discussion tackling major issues of the not-too-distant future. In the hot seats will be Kalyana Sivagnanam, Nissan’s Middle East president and VP Africa, Middle East and India; Dr Bijan Majidi, chairman of Dinamica International; and Euromotors GM, David McGoldrick. The session will look at the evolution of electric and hybrid vehicles and the impact of VAT and oil on the automobile industry. It will be moderated by Mark Gravener, CEO of Growthcode. The event runs from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and entry is free for members and BD5 for members’ guests.

Call 32 236-464. www.bahrainthismonth.com

DJ KATTY Q LIVE

Klub 360

Introducing the world famous DJ Katty Q all the way from Moscow. This former model swapped the runway for the DJ booth to be dubbed the World’s Sexiest DJ by fhm.com, going on to be named in the world’s top FDJ charts for several years running. Her sets and appearances are unique as Katty Q doesn’t showcase just one style but, rather, has made her name as an open format DJ throughout the popular genres, becoming known as the ‘The Queen of MashUp’. She has exceptional technical skills, a mesmerising stage appearance and the ability to read her crowd like no other, either on the big stage of EDM festivals, the intimate club setting, or at one of her regular gigs in super clubs all across Asia, Europe and, last but not least, Russia, where she is a resident DJ for the most luxurious brands and venues, including one of Moscow’s major hotspots — ICON. She will be supported

by DJs Lady Coco and Rogie.

Door policy is over 21s only. Girls, couples and military get in free, guys pay BD10, including one drink.

Call 33 360-300 October 2018 17

happenings When? Until October 7 Event? Oktoberfest @Tapas Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Call 33 236-772 or 17 636-363.

RAISE A STEIN OCTOBER OKTOBERFEST The Gulf Hotel Bahrain 4

When? Until October 8 Event? Bahrain Tech Week Venue? Various Visit bahrainedb.com When? October 2 Event? Automobile Business Forum Venue? The Capital Club Call 32 236-464.

When? October 3 Event? Business Networking Event Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club (BRFC)

Take this perfect opportunity to extend your valuable network in a relaxed, informal setting and meet highly respected professionals from a variety of businesses in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Please note that tickets must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance from Reception.

BD5 for BRFC members. BD7 for non-members.

Call 17 695-809.

When? October 3 Event? DJ Katty Q Live Venue? Klub 360 Call 33 360-300.

When? October 3

Event? Yalla Banat ‘She Drives’ Festival Venue? Bahrain International Circuit

Major female-centric, motoring/ empowerment event featuring round-table discussion sessions, a big car parade, a motor show, appearances from top-name influencers, pop-up market and lots more.

Call 17 234-553.

When? October 3-December Event? Exhibition, Becoming Real Venue? InTouch Clinic Call 17 690-100.

When? October 4

Event? Oktoberfest Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Call 17 713-000.

When? October 4 Event? Rooftop Bar Season Opening Venue? Wyndham Garden Hotel

Night Pro and RFB put on a show, with music from DJ Ramy, DJ Cossta and Franky Flowerz, to mark the beginning of the winter season at this gorgeous venue.

Call 39 712-012.

18 October 2018

THE REAL THING OCTOBER 3 -DECEMBER

EXHIBITION, BECOMING REAL

InTouch Clinic

In a congested, confusing and constructed world, where man-made consumerism runs rampant, what allows a simple escape or drives a wanted connectivity? What may act as a passageway, an entrance, or a back door? Where would that opening be? Would it be present within yourself or some other place? What is your personal journey? Can you see yourself celebrating life through the simplicity of a movement? Can you imagine yourself free from ego, exposing your soul and body to a yoga studio floor, in a moment of vulnerability and humbleness?

Mariya Gluscevic was born in Belgrade, Serbia, where she graduated in international public law. While at university, she won several awards for young Serbian poets. After starting her law career, she discovered photography, and it soon became her main artistic expression. Photography became, for her, ‘liquid poetry’, and as such, an evolution of her artistic practice. Over the past seven years, Mariya has explored her own impressions of Bahrain and Bahraini people through her photography. She has been a part of four photography exhibitions to date and now mounts this solo showing at the clinic.

Call 17 690-100.

Head over to the hotel’s convention centre for the island’s longest-running German ale and oompah event. You don’t have to don the lederhosen, though some do, to enjoy an evening of great fun, with a good atmosphere, special German buffet and music from the Lasterbacher Musikanten Band, who have been flown in specially from Germany for the celebration. Doors open at 7.30pm, the show starts at 8.30pm and tickets are BD26++.

Call 17 713-000.

PINK ON WHEELS OCTOBER 5

THINK PINK MOTORBIKE RIDE

Harley Davidson Showroom

HIP-HOP JAPANESE STYLE OCTOBER 4 AND 6

DJ TA-SHI LIVE

Cavallo Club

Fancy something a little bit different? Cavallo presents DJ Ta-Shi, the Japanese hip-hop ‘Def Busta!’ who has won several awards including the Vesta, ITF and DMC Japan Competition three times!

Continuously breaking records, he has performed with the likes of James Brown, Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg and promises fans of the genre a night to remember. Entry price TBC. Call 35 111-181.

A month of Think Pink Breast Cancer Awareness events kicks off with the annual Think Pink Motorbike Ride. The event is organised by the Harley Owners’ Group (HOG) but lots of other bikers dress up in pink and take part and ride across the island raising awareness and cash for this great cause.

Keep your eyes open to cheer them on or maybe join in, if you have a bike.

Call 17 599-006. www.bahrainthismonth.com

1 in 5 people face some form of mental health challenge.

Don’t face it alone, seek help & talk about it.

We will support you to help you live a better life.

17812000 bsh.com.bh

happenings When? October 4 Event? Amplified Club Night Venue? Coral Bay

DaBasso hosts an evening of chilled sounds and hot techno from one of India’s premier DJ-producers, Diatonik, supported by local favourite FawazO. Early bird tickets BD5, on the door BD10.

SOUNDS OF EUROPE OCTOBER 5

MOSIMANN LIVE

TIME FOR TEA Coral Bay

OCTOBER 6

BSPCA TEA PARTY

Upstairs Downstairs

Call 39 442-295.

When? October 4 and 6 Event? DJ Ta-Shi Live Venue? Cavallo Club Call 35 111-181.

When? October 5 Event? Think Pink Motorbike Ride Venue? Harley Davidson Showroom Call 17 599-006.

When? October 5 Event? BUMM Record Label Launch Venue? 55 Old Street, Adliya

Join the BUMM (Bahrain Underground Music Movement) record label launch party kicking off a new journey of promoting the local scene. Sounds on the night from DJs Ramy, Mysterioo Arif, Fawazo, Ranjit, Sub Nation and Sam. Entry is free.

Call 37 777-845.

When? October 5 Event? Mosimann Live Venue? Coral Bay Call 35 431-458 or 35 978-780.

Mosimann is the complete package: DJ-producer, singer, songwriter, The Voice TV host and double gold-certified artist based between Paris and Zurich. A self-taught musician, he grew up looking up to the likes of JeanMichel Jarre, Daft Punk and Laurent Garnier, pioneers who helped him shape his own sound and identity.

He’s always taken great pride in bringing his passion for electronic music from the underground to the masses.

Steadily climbing his way to the top over the past seven years, he became a regular fixture in the DJ MAG Top 100 (at number 93 this year) and joined the ranks of the top 10 French DJs, reaching number four this year.

He has played more than 250 dates across the world over the last few years and promises a mix of electro-pop which is sure to keep the dance floor kicking. The event runs from 3pm and tickets are BD15 for men and BD10 for women.

Call 35 431-458 or 35 978-780.

Spoil yourself with an afternoon of fun, fashion, fragrance, jewellery and beauty – and, of course, lush tea, coffee, sandwiches and cakes. And, if that isn’t enough, you’ll be raising cash for the homeless moggies and doggies (and other critters) who reside at the BSPCA’s Animal Welfare Centre (AWC). With a boutique bazaar and a cash bar, what’s not to like. The event runs from 2.30pm to 5pm. Tickets are BD10 and must be purchased in advance from Upstairs Downstairs, the BSPCA Thrift Shop or the AWC shelter.

Call 66 608-901.

BEST IN IT CLASS BAHRAIN

INTERNATIONAL OCTOBER EGOVERNMENT FORUM 7-8 & IT EXPO 2018

The RitzCarlton, Bahrain

When? October 5 Event? First Anniversary Party Venue? Alto

A toast to the best year, 25 floors up at the Downtown Rotana. Music from DJ Arsh.

Entry free before 11pm, men BD10 thereafter.

Call 33 514-455.

When? October 6 Event? BSPCA Tea Party Venue? Upstairs Downstairs Call 66 608-901.

When? October 6 Event? Art at the Bay painting classes Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Call 17 115-500.

When? October 7-8 Event? Bahrain International eGovernment Forum & IT Expo 2018 Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Visit www.egovforum.bh 20 October 2018

GET ARTY ART AT THE OCTOBER BAY PAINTING 6 CLASSES

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

The hotel invites you to find your hidden artists during a series of monthly classes hosted in Bay View Lounge in collaboration with Art Divano. Taught by Marion Ajanki, learn special painting techniques on a 50cmx50cm canvas using acrylic colours. Over the series, participants will recreate works by some of the world’s greatest artists ,such as Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet and Gustav Klimt, while savouring canapés and beverages prepared by executive chef Hyung Gyu Kim. The October class focuses on Van Gogh’s Wheatfield with Crows. The class runs from 3pm to 6pm and costs BD36 per person, including eats and drinks, and spaces are limited.

Call 17 115-500.

While the pace of digital technology accelerates, so do the Information & eGovernment Authority’s endless efforts in gathering together the best-in-class IT community from Bahrain and the world to the latest forum, which is organised under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Information & Communication Technology, and sponsored by C5 Accelerate.

From every region in the globe, more than 20 internationally-recognised speakers are to take part ,with senior ICT professionals expected to exceed 500 VVIP officials plus delegates and participants from private, public and NGO sectors.

Visit www.egovforum.bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? October 8 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Venue: ERA Tower, 5th Floor, Seef Monthly meeting at which likeminded folks get together to discuss projects and network.

PARTY IN PINK OCTOBER 11

Call 39 574-795.

AMERICAN EXPRESS PINK ISLAND PARTY

HOMETOWN GIRL The RitzCarlton, Bahrain

OCTOBER 12

ADELE TRIBUTE

JJ’s

When? October 10 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Artdivano Gallery Aspiring and established poets gather to study and discuss their works, give tips and generally support each other.

Call 39 574-795.

When? October 11 Event? American Express Pink Island Party Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Call 17 586-612.

When? October 12 Event? Autum Fair Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club

Browse an array of books, cakes, handcrafted goods and much, much more at the annual Autumn Fair. To register a stall and sell your goods please contact sport.recept@ bahrainrfc.com. Only new or handmade goods allowed.

Call 17 695-809.

When? October 12 Event? Adele Tribute Venue? JJ’s Call 33 843-005.

When? October 13 Event? Think pink golf tournament Venue? Royal Golf Club

Dance the night away and make your footprints count as you groove for charity at this big party in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. There’ll be a guest DJ, Sabrina Terrance, and a sumptuous open buffet and beverage bar from 8pm to 11pm. Tickets are BD25 for members and hotel guests and BD35 for non-members.

Dig out your pink party pants and prepare to get on down!

Call 17 586-612.

READY FOR YOUR CLOSE-UP? OCTOBER 16

NEW YORK FILM ACADEMY VISIT

Via Website

Details still being confirmed as we went to press but there will be a tournament and barbecue.

BUZZING NEW VENUE

Call 38 496-912.

OCTOBER 18

When? October 14-17 Event? Bahrain Hospitality & Restaurant Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

The four-day industry exposé, which includes a culinary tour, forum and exhibition, is the largest gathering of industry thought leaders, restaurant owners, hospitality specialists and industry suppliers. Tickets from BD10.

Visit www.bahrainhre.com

When? October 15 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Creative Workshop Venue? Juffair Grand Hotel coffee shop Budding literary creatives get tips and advice on improving their writing works.

Call 39 574-795.

22 October 2018

Head down to the island’s favourite Irish bar for a very special After Brunch Party when for the very first time at JJ’s, all the way from the UK, comes the Hometown Glory Adele Tribute By Natalie. With a wealth of performance experience, Natalie Anne Black is ‘The One and Only Adele,’ winner of the 2016 and 2017 National Tribute Award for Best Adele.

So, get ready for an unforgetable live show that will keep you on your feet for the whole night! The after brunch party kicks off with DJ Aaron Wolf and Wildcard Band.

Tickets are BD6 for men at the door from 6pm. Ladies get in free till 9pm and pay BD3 thereafter.

Call 33 843-005.

New York Film Academy (NYFA) is conducting auditions, portfolio reviews and an information session for potential new students. These reviews offer applicants an opportunity to demonstrate their skills to the admissions representatives in order to be eligible for a talent-based discount on their NYFA tuition. They also offer individuals an opportunity to learn about the available programmes, locations and the enrolment process. There are various entry requirements for the auditions, which can be found on the NYFA website, plus an application fee of USD65.

Call visit www.nyfa.edu

TERRACE GRAND OPENING

Jumeirah Royal Saray

Head over to Seef for the official opening of a swish new nightlife venue in the shape of The Terrace at the gorgeous beachside Jumeirah property. With music from Lebanese national DJ Ronn, who has played at some of the region’s biggest clubs and outdoor events, plus the boast of attracting “the most exclusive crowd on the island,” this promises to be a fun night and a chance to check out the new rooftop venue.

Call 77 707-070. www.bahrainthismonth.com

EXPERIENCE THE R E V I VA L O F A C L A S S I C IN BAHRAIN

T: +973 17 525251

radissonblu.com/diplomathotel-bahrain

happenings

DEDICATED TO YOUR SPECIAL DAY

OCTOBER 13

GRAND WEDDING FAIR

RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA

If you’re looking for novel ideas to celebrate your nuptials, look no further than the wedding fair taking place at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. Whether you seek high-end accommodation, world-class dining, an exuberant night out, or end-to-end banqueting solutions, the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa has it all under one roof.

The elegant hotel is ideally located in the commercial Seef district, and is a luxurious home away from home for tourists and residents alike. Besides sophisticated lodgings, the establishment offers a plethora of dining options to its elite clientele.

24 October 2018

The chic property has something spectacular slated for this month. On October 13, it will host a grand wedding fair from 10am to 9pm. Find everything you need for your special day under one roof, ranging from expert advice to wedding workshops and glamorous catwalk shows. This event will be the ultimate day out to gather information on all the essential things you need to know about planning the perfect wedding. No matter what stage you are at – just engaged and starting to plan, or with the big day approaching and looking to put the last few touches to your day of love – there is something for every bride and groom at this mega fair.

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

Mock decorations will be put up for all to see and several vendors providing nuptialrelated services will be present – decorators, bridal wear designers and retailers, photography and video service providers, as well as make-up and beauty care experts, to name a few. All this makes the event a mustvisit one-stop shop for the brides-to-be, who are looking to have the perfect wedding. The participating exhibitors will not disappoint, as each will bring their very own interpretation to the table, filling the gala with truly unique and creative displays.

Entry to the fair is free. Lucky visitors will receive a gift bag and a chance to win fabulous prizes in the raffle draw.

Call 17 111-999 / 36 897-379 or email gm.pa@rameegrandbahrain.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? October 18 Event? Hussain Al-Adhamy Live Venue? Bahrain National Theatre The Iraqi singer takes to the stage for a performance suitable ages 10 and above.

Tickets are available at Virgin Megastore, City Centre Bahrain.

FESTIVAL RETURNS

SONGS OF PALESTINE

BAHRAIN OCTOBER Various INTERNATIONAL 18-27 Locations MUSIC FESTIVAL

Call 17 001-908.

When? October 19 Event? Nawa Institute Live Venue? Cultural Hall Call 17 298-777.

When? October 20 Event? Ismaeel bin Dawwas Band Venue? Tree of Life

A traditional Bahraini musical performance staged at one of the country’s most iconic sites.

Admission is free.

Now in its 27th edition, the big music festival, which signals the beginning of the autumn season in the Kingdom, is back with a selection of big acts from across the Arab world and beyond.

visit visitbahrain.bh

When? October 21 Event? A Tribute to Mohammed Ali Abdullah Venue? Cultural Hall

NATACHA ATLAS LIVE

Cultural Hall

The Egyptian-British singer, known for her fusion of Arabic and Western music, particularly hip-hop. She once termed her music “cha’abi moderne” (modern popular music) and she has been influenced by many styles including Maghrebain, hip-hop, drum and bass and reggae to create an irresistible fusion.

When? October 23 Event? Natacha Atlas Live Venue? Cultural Hall Call 17 298-777.

Atlas began her career as part of the world fusion group Transglobal Underground.

In 1995, she began to focus on her solo career with the release of Diaspora. She has since released seven solo albums and been a part of numerous collaborations.

Her version of Mon Amie La Rose became a surprise success in France, reaching 16 on the French singles charts in 1999. Her most recent creation Myriad Road was released in October 2015. This performance offers a rare chance to see a legend perform in Bahrain and entrance is free.

Call 17 298-777.

When? October 25 Event? Nabyla Maan Live Venue? Cultural Hall Call 17 298-777.

MOROCCAN BEATS OCTOBER 25

NABYLA MAAN LIVE

A PASSIONATE VOICE Cultural Hall

The Bahraini scholar and performer presents a lecture and show featuring traditional women’s songs and laments of the island.

Entry is free.

Call 35 467-979.

Nabyla recorded her first album in 2005, D’nya, in which she sings in Darija, classical Arabic and French, including two reprises of Nass El Ghiwane’s famous songs Allah Ya Molana and Essiniya. Her album sold to hundreds of thousand copies and led to concerts in Morocco and across Europe. At age 19, she was the youngest Arab and African artist to perform at the Olympia music hall in Paris. In 2009, she released her second album Ya Tayr El Ali, which also features songs in Moroccan Arabic, classic Arabic and French, including her version of Edith Piaf’s Padam Padam. Nabyla Maan is an artist of world music and uses Arabic, Western and African influences in her music.

Her Bahrain appearance promises a taste of jazz coupled with her atmospheric Arabic rhythms. Entrance is free.

Call 17 298-777.

26 October 2018

Cultural Hall

Bahrain welcomes a group of young musicians from Nawa, the Palestinian Institute for Cultural Development, which has its home base in the centre of the Gaza Strip. Its mission is to research, document, reproduce and disseminate rare and precious classical and folkloric music. And its vision is a Palestinian society that is proud of its cultural and artistic heritage and able to maintain the continuation of this culture; respectful of its depth and its role in human culture in general. This group of musicians, who play a mix of traditional Arabic and Western instruments, sing songs of their homeland, making the story of Palestine’s past, present and future accessible through the international medium of music. The performance is in collaboration with the Palestinian Embassy and entrance is free.

Call 17 298-777.

OCTOBER 23

Call 17 298-777.

When? October 27 Event? Jassim Bin Harban – The Art of Women’s Songs Venue? Dar Almuharraq

NAWA INSTITUTE LIVE

AN EGYPTIAN ICON

Bahrain Music Band presents a tribute to the legendary Bahraini singer who died earlier this year.

Entry is free.

When? October 26 Event? Waed Bouhassoun – The Passion of Poetry Venue? Cultural Hall Call 17 298-777.

OCTOBER 19

OCTOBER 26

WAED BOUHASSOUN – THE PASSION OF POETRY

Cultural Hall

This Syrian-French singer delivers a flawless performance, accompanying herself on the oud for a set of songs based on poems which talk of love and passion.

Described as ‘Music of the Soul’, the poetry comes from the works of Al Hallaj, Qays Ibn Al Mulawwah, Ibn Zaydoun, Syrian poet Adonis (Ali Ahmad Said Esber) and others. The music is Waed’s own and her playing displays dazzling technique. Entrance is free.

Call 17 298-777. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? October 16 Event? New York Film Academy Visit Venue? Via Website visit www.nyfa.edu When? October 18 Event? Terrace Grand Opening Venue? Jumeirah Royal Saray Call 77 707-070.

When? October 19 Event? TribFest Bahrain Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club Call 17 695-809.

When? October 22-November 1 Event? Dia de los Muertos Festival Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Call 17 636-363.

When? October 25 Event? Rick Ross Live Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain Call 17 531-122.

When? 25 October Event? Crazy Zoo Halloween Party Venue? Bushido Call 17 583-555.

When? October 25-27 Event? Bahrain Family Show Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Housing and family events expo.

Visit www. bahrainhousingexpo.com When? October 25 Event? The Big Night Out Venue? The British Club Call 17 728-245.

When? October 26 Event? Barhain Jazz Festival Venue? Royal Golf Club Call 17 750-777.

When? October 26 Event? Phantom of the Opera Masquerade Ball Venue? Gallery 21 Call 17 711-600.

When? October 27-29 Event? Maths Everywhere Training Course Venue? Budaiya Pre-School

High-quality training for early years providers by Karen Wilding Education Ltd. Saturday is a oneday, six-hour session or there are two three-hour sessions split over Sunday and Monday. Cost is BD75.

Call 17 791-491.

28 October 2018

TRIBUTES GALORE TRIBFEST BAHRAIN

OCTOBER 19

Bahrain Rugby Football Club

This big, family-friendly music festival is one of the island’s favourite events.

Taking place at the Rugby Club, there are plenty of food and drinks stalls to accompany a fab line-up of some of 21 of the UK’s best tribute acts, who will be channelling stars such as Shania Twain, the Spice Girls, the Killers, Roy Orbison, Robbie Williams and Guns ‘n’ Roses. TribFest has been going a few years and always attracts a fun crowd for a day of picnicking, singing and dancing along, taking advantage of the cooler weather. There are three stages and the event runs from 10am to 10pm, with an indoor stage continuing later featuring some great local acts. Tickets cost BD16 for adults and BD8 for under 12s.

Call Call 17 695-809.

SOUNDS OF LONDON October 25

The Big Night Out

The British Club

The Big Night Out returns to the Brit Club making the most of the cooler weather with a party at the poolside. There’ll be food stalls serving up the best bits from the club’s famed kitchens and live entertainment in the shape of Brit Rockers Teenage Kicks. The indie rock-orientated cover band capture the sounds of The Clash, The Smiths, Arctic Monkeys and more! Members have performed at SXSW, Warped Tour, Fuji Rock Festival and Coachella so you know you’re in for a great night out. Prices are to be confirmed.

Call 17 728-245.

BIGGEST BOSS OCTOBER 25

RICK ROSS LIVE

Crowne Plaza BAHRAIN

Billed as the biggest hip-hop concert in Bahrain history, Rick Ross certainly has an enormous stage presence and lives up to his early prophecy of being the biggest boss. The Miami monster mogul has evolved into not just hip-hop’s most respected and revered MC (in fact, he was voted MTV’s Hottest MC of 2011), but as a label CEO and business entrepreneur.

His resumé is as sterling as one of his platinum plaques.

Influenced by the golden era b-boys of the late ‘80s, Ross got his introduction to hip-hop in the late ’90s ,but his time really came with the breakthrough track Hustlin’ in 2006. This earned him a record deal with Def Jam which led to his debut album, Port of Miami, which debuted number one on the Billboard charts, as did Trilla which came less than two years later.

He has continued to make music and wow crowds in the

ensuing years and in August said he is putting the finishing touches to Port of Miami 2.

His Bahrain appearance promises to be a great chance for Bahrain fans to catch one of the genre’s biggest names live.

Tickets start at just under BD7 from www.eventbrite.com Call 17 531-122.

ZOOTASTICALLY SCARY OCTOBER 25

CRAZY ZOO HALLOWEEN PARTY

Bushido

Are you brave enough to celebrate Halloween at a Crazy Zoo? As usual, Bushido is going that step further to make sure revellers have a great time. The DJ line-up features Albert Mauri, Momo and Ricardo Lopez and there’ll be professional dancers on hand to get the festivities under way. The dress code is Halloween fabulous and the promo features animal masks, hence the zoo theme.

Get ready to enjoy sweeping views of the moat and landscaped gardens as you boogie into the wee hours. Early bird tickets are BD10 for men and BD5 for women. Entry on the door is BD15 for men and BD10 for ladies.

Call 17 583-555. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

British Council Reception

To view more images, scan the QR code

The British Council held an annual reception to highlight last year’s achievements and announce 2018/19 activities at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Richard, HE Simon Martin & Sophie

Huda & Faiza

Gassan

Hussain, Richard, Kawther & Alam

Mohammed

Kamiron

Kamiron & Farzana

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Scott & Khalid Zayani

Riyad

Ghada

Hamad & Hend

October 2018 29

happenings

OUTRAGEOUS OCTOBER

OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 2

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS & HALLOWEEN BEACH PARTY

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

It’s parties galore this month as Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa gears up for everything from Mexican festivities to Halloween revelries.

per person. Buy your early bird tickets before October 20 at a flat 20 per cent off! To avoid queuing at the door, purchase your event passes online from www.eventsbh.com.

Savour a signature mouthwatering buffet and enjoy hypnotic live entertainment including the electrifying laser and fire dance shows, as you live through an unforgettable event full of excitement, scary costumes and fun times.

Dance away with your friends and enjoy a party full of eerie surprises.

You can also take advantage of the Halloween Beach Rooms Promo. Book a sea view Luxury room, with two Halloween Beach Party tickets and a lavish buffet breakfast for two, for only BD199.

DJ Djoly

Call 17 636-363.

Getty Images

Known as a world-class luxurious establishment that is distinguished by its prestigious state-of-the-art facilities and award-winning restaurants, while also boasting the only Thalassa sea and spa in the Middle East, Sofitel Bahrain has become a landmark property within the region. The hotel ensures you and your loved ones have a unique experience full of fun-filled events that are hosted for your entertainment monthly.

A truly special month, October will see Sofitel Bahrain lavishly host an extended version of the traditional Dia de los Muertos Mexican holiday from October 25 until November 1. Join the grand celebrations at the iconic five-star bar and restaurant, Tapas, and enjoy a variety of authentic Mexican dishes as you dance the night away to the melodies of Latin songs with your friends.

The excitement doesn’t end there, as the spookiest night of the year creeps up on us. On November 2, Sofitel Bahrain is yet again ready to host the island’s best Halloween Beach Party. With the moon shining bright on the shores of Zallaq, gather your friends for a spine-chilling night full of excitement and bewitching entertainment, featuring international producer, DJ Djoly.

This hair-raising evening is priced at BD38

30 October 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Mohamed Buzizi, Natalia & Prajit

Restaurant Opening

The grand opening of The Copper Chimney Restaurant took place at the Asdal Gulf Inn. The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Ahmed, Lara, Jordana & Khalid

Nils, Ron, Prajit, Garfield & Hussain

Anuradha, Karan & Marise

Student Reception

The French Embassy organised a reception to congratulate students who came back from a French summer course in Nice, France.

Matthew, Bessette & Pereme

Gireesh & Seema

HE CĂŠcile Longe

Dominique & Sald

Anael & Jamel

Jean

Deepshikha, Sudeb & Tanisha

Shaima, Shaida & Shahla

32 October 2018

Laurice & Giselle

Fahad & Ahmed

Mohammed & Ebrahim

www.bahrainthismonth.com

PREVENT

BREAST CANCER

Show you care, be aware

Breast Cancer Screening Package (below 40 years)

15

BD

Specialist Consultation Consultation Ultrasound Breast

Breast Cancer Screening Package (above 40 years)

Specialist Consultation Consultation Mammogram Ultrasound Breast

25

BD

* Terms & Conditions apply | Valid From 1st October 2018 till 31st October 2018

17362233 HOTLINE 66997778 www.mehospital.com | Follow us

mehospitalbh

mehgroup

happenings When? October 31 Event? Lecture – The Route to China: Seaborne Exploration in Medieval Islam Venue? Bahrain National Museum This is a journey of classical and medieval Islam narrated through the voices of people who lived in those years.

Call 17 298-777.

When? November 1 Event? Fiestas de los Muertos Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Call 32 223-323.

When? November 2 Event? Halloween Beach Party Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Call 17 636-363.

When? November 9 Event? Bahrain Marathon Relay Venue? Bahrain International Circuit

Registration is now open for teams to take part in this year’s event.

Visit www.bahrain-mr.com

JAZZY DAY OUT OCTOBER 26

BAHRAIN JAZZ FESTIVAL

Royal Golf Club

The second edition of this big outdoor festival, sees market stalls, food trucks and some of the very best jazz performers coming to Riffa for a fun day, running from 11am to 11pm.

Acts playing include Swing Ninjas (pictured), The Kiffness, Ala Ghawas, Avalon Jazz Band, star guitarist Ana Popovic, Cut Capers, Likwid, Havaneros and Indian Ocean. There will from virginmegastore.me and buses to the venue are being laid on free at points across the island. also be plenty of local favourites on the second stage and Call 17 750-777. music throughout the day from DJ. Tickets are priced BD20

PHANTOM FRIGHT NIGHT OCTOBER 26

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA MASQUERADE BALL

This Halloween, In Sound We Trust [ISWT] presents The Phantom of the Opera Masquerade Ball themed on the timeless story and a musical phenomenon. The longest running show in Broadway history and this Halloween’s biggest masked ball offer a rare musical showcase produced by Bahrain’s very own DJ and violinist Kayan, accompanied by an astonishing dance performance. The opening set comes from DJ Momo.

It promises to be a musical treat for both electronic and opera lovers, taking them back in time to Paris Opera House 1919, at a breathtaking venue, designed to astound and capture the imagination.

Early bird tickets are BD10 for men and BD5 for women. Entry on the door is BD15 for men and BD10 for women.

Call 17 711-600.

DARE TO SCARE NOVEMBER 1

Gallery 21

FIESTAS DE LOS MUERTOS

ELECTRIC BEACH Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

NOVEMBER 2

BEACH:ART PARTY

ART Rotana

It’s the first party on the new Four Seasons beach marking the Mexican festival of the Day of the Dead.

Organised jointly by Vibes and Night Pro, Evo and RST from the UK, a pair of DJ-producers who’ve been active on the international music scene since 1997, make their Bahrain debut with what promises to be a cracking set of electro-dance with an eclectic edge. They’ll be ably supported by local favourite DJ Cossta.

The dress code is Dare to Scare; freaky face make-up is optional.

Pre-sale tickets are BD20 for men and BD10 for women. On the door entry is Bd25 for men and BD15 for women.

Call 32 223-323.

COOL RUNNING NOVEMBER 9

BAHRAIN MARATHON RELAY

Bahrain International Circuit

Entries are now open for the Bahrain Marathon Relay. More than 200 teams, representing both public and private sectors are expected to gather at the Bahrain International Circuit, to participate in the relay marathon, helping to promote the value of team spirit and a healthy lifestyle across Bahrain.

Visit www.bahrain-mr.com 34 October 2018

It’s the big annual ART Rotana beach party and this year it’s the electric edition. Expect the usual amazing ambiance and crowd, this time with an electric twist! A whole host of special acts are being flown in from around the world to entertain you with their electric performances! Details are still being confirmed, but it sounds like a day and night not to be missed.

Doors open from 2pm. Entry is BD20 per person including two free drinks.

Call 16 000-111. www.bahrainthismonth.com

HALLOWEEN PARTY

REACH US ON: [+ 973] 17583555 RESERVATION@BUSHIDO.COM.BH

happenings

TURN IT UP TO 11

DAILY

NEW VENUE

The Arch Hotel

THE ARCH HOTEL

11 Club recently opened its doors to give the more seasoned clubber a new stylistic experience.

11 Club is the newest addition to the recently opened Arch Hotel’s many outlets, and to Bahrain’s vibrant clubbing scene. After a successful opening, on the night of September 6, with the main attraction being world-renowned DJ Jon White, a newer style of clubbing has been introduced to the market by 11 Club, and the venue is ready to make its mark.

Located on the ground floor of the Juffairbased hotel, the innovative club focuses on bringing a new concept to bar and club hoppers. The proprietors, no strangers to the scene themselves around these parts, have reached out to some of the main players in terms of food and beverage, and fished globally for experienced entertainment managers to run 36 October 2018

most of the outlets.

Bringing a refreshing change from the more underground, darker clubs in the area, 11 Club boasts a dignified exterior, and a classy black and grey interior in perfect New York style, complemented by the pleasant blue hue of the neon lights. It also has a swanky, private VIP seating area, and a spacious dance floor, coupled with an elaborately designed bar.

Additionally, 11 Club houses strategically placed slim tables where guests can enjoy canapés, continental and international cuisine, and beverages from the establishment’s extensive menu.

With resident DJs Delroy and Misha spinning hip-hop, R&B, Caribbean, hits from the ‘70s onwards and some classic house beats on the decks, every night from 9pm to 2am, great nights out are calling. Surrounded by music pumping through dynamic JBL speakers, with

an LED light show along with the backdrop of a vast LED screen, there is no doubt about the good vibes this club promises.

Military and airline crew enter for free, and ladies can expect a special package on the door. With the house pouring package, ladies drink for free all night. All can enjoy a 25 per cent discount on food and beverages, from 9pm to 11pm every night*.

Apart from the usual entertainment offered, the club plans to host month-end events, so keep your eyes open and ears peeled for updates, especially through social media channels on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: @club elevenbahrain Instagram: @clubelevenbahrain Call 66 705-584. *Terms and conditions apply. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

AMAISB Forum

To view more images, scan the QR code

AMA International School Bahrain held the second part of its ‘Parenting the Digital Generation’ forum at its premises.

Marietta & Anne Marie

Brenda, Elvie & Annie

Budoor, Vicky, Sharif, Chona, Francisco & Eman

April & Sarah

Mubeena, Israa & Samar

Gulf Hotel VIP Dinner

To view more images, scan the QR code

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain hosted a dinner for VIPs to experience the new La Pergola by Perbellini restaurant at its premises.

Management and guests with chef Giancarlo Perbellini

HE Simon Martin & Sophie

HE Kai Boeckmann & Sameera

Charbel, HE Domenico Bellato, chef Giancarlo Perbellini, Simone & Fares

38 October 2018

Claire & Pasquale

Rana, Fares & HE Domenico Bellato

Laura, Akram Miknas, Arnavaz & HE Justin Siberell

www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertorial ZALLAQ SPRINGS

Grand Opening Bahrain’s oasis escape, Zallaq Springs, will officially open its doors to the public with its launch this month.

After much anticipation, Zallaq Springs will have an official launch and be open to the public from mid-October. Zallaq Springs is an original concept of serenity, located in the heart of Zallaq, within the Southern Governorate. This one-of-a-kind sanctuary includes water springs, 10 waterfront restaurants and cafés, and 19 shops surrounded by ponds that cover 3,399sq/m. It’s a unique destination inspired by ideas of international atmospheric spaces including Japanese Zen gardens; it is being developed to be the first-of-its-kind botanical garden in the Kingdom. The project is spread across an area of 25,338sq/m, with a spacious car park.

Zallaq Springs is the perfect location to inspire meditation and contemplation while immersed in an unpolluted, natural environment.

Tenants like Peninsula Farms Café, BeRehab and Equilibrium complement this wellness destination to destress and focus on the body, mind and soul. The property also provides a platform for athletic communities to retreat to a sanctuary beside their cycling routes, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The property accommodates cycle parking stands, with exclusive shower rooms for cyclists to freshen up and rejuvenate. It has been designed for visitors to unwind from their daily routines and immerse themselves in an enchanted retreat within Bahrain. It hopes to

provide an avant-garde central point for everyone to meet, relax, eat, and socialise at the various restaurants and cafés, soon to open this year, including Coffee Republic, Latte Art, Shakespeare & Co and Venice.

“Zallaq Springs is a unique property with an unparalleled ambience,” says Al Zallaq Real Estate Company COO Shaikh Salman bin Khalid Al-Khalifa. “It is a lifestyle experience for the community that promotes familial bonding and healthy living, while relaxing and unwinding in a stress-free environment.”

Call 17 203-056, email zallaqsprings@alzallaq.com or visit www.zallaqsprings.com

Shaikh Bader Al Khalifa

Restaurant Opening

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain held the official opening of its La Pergola restaurant by chef Giancarlo Perbelini who holds two Michelin stars.

Farook Almoayyed, Khalid Al Sharif & Fuad Kanoo

To view more images, scan the QR code

Fares, chef Giancarlo Perbellini & Charbel

Ron, Fares, Mohamed Buzizi & Garfield Jones

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Yousef Al Shater & Mazin Alumran

Fuad Kanoo & Shaikh Bader Al Khalifa

Mahar Al Musallam & Fawzi Kanoo

HE Nabeel Al Hamar & Garfield Jones

October 2018 39

INTERVIEWS

this month

A Lasting Reminder, p42

The Urban Artist, p44

HE Anwaer

CELEBRATING STRONG TIES Veterans in Klub Takeover, p46

Artistic Talent Recognised, p48

Scan the code to see more of what His Excellency had to say.

40 October 2018

His Excellency Anwaer, Chinese Ambassador, spoke to Liz O’Reilly ahead of Chinese National Day. Congratulations on your new role. Is this your first ambassadorial posting? Please tell us about your previous positions.

It is the first ambassadorial post for me. I used to work in the Chinese Embassy and Consulate-General in Saudi Arabia for 17 years. I was the Consul-General of China in Jeddah.

How are you liking Bahrain so far? What do you see as your main tasks while you are here?

Bahrain enjoys a reputation as the pearl of the Gulf with its excellent history, developed economy and diversified culture. I believe that with the development of bilateral, friendly, cooperative relations between China and Bahrain, the Belt and Road Initiative will help Bahrain to achieve economic transformation and upgrading, promote the strategy of diversification, and realise the prospect of political stability, economic prosperity, social harmony and improving people’s livelihood. I am pretty happy to live and work in Bahrain and make lots of Bahraini friends.

I wish to enhance the all-around exchange and cooperation, constantly solidifying the foundation of political mutual trust and enjoying the mutual benefits of cooperation achievement between China and Bahrain with the joint efforts of all the diplomats of my mission and all my Bahraini friends. I do believe that the comprehensive cooperation between China and

Bahrain offers historical opportunity, especially with the integration and implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative and Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030. I firmly believe that our bilateral relations will have more beautiful prospects.

I do believe that with the rapid development of the economic cooperation and personnel exchanges between China and Bahrain, the number of Chinese people in Bahrain will increase constantly.

What are the current trade figures between China and Bahrain? Can you outline in which areas you would expect growth to come?

According to Bahrain Government statistics, trade volume in 2017 was about USD2 billion. I believe that with the integration of China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Bahrain’s Economic Outlook 2030, we will further tap cooperative potential.

In recent years, the number of Chinese enterprises investing in Bahrain has risen rapidly. At present, they cover all areas of cooperation, including information and communications, high-end manufacturing, environmental protection and project contracting, such as Huawei Technologies, CPIC Abahsain Fiberglass, China Machinery Engineering Corporation, et cetera. I know, CPIC Abahsain Fiberglass is planning to invest USD500 million to extend to four production lines. CMEC is now negotiating with the Ministry of Housing on guaranteed financing clauses for a social housing project. The first phase of investment will be pretty huge at USD550 million. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview You recently wrote in the GDN about the benefits of the Belt and Road Initiative, can you tell us how this will eventually affect this part of the world?

China, as the world’s second largest economy, now contributes over 30 per cent to the world’s economic growth.

In the past few years, China and the countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative have worked together to promote regional economic development and the recovery of the world economy. Joint contributions and the shared benefits of the Belt and Road development have expanded two-way trade and investment – trade between China and the Belt and Road countries has totalled more than USD5 trillion. Development opportunities actually lie in bilateral investment, trade and personnel exchanges.

Countries along the Belt and Road, as well as other cooperation partners, are mostly developing countries. There are, however, also developed countries, emerging economies and high-income oil-exporting nations. They all have their unique advantages, be it in capital, technology, management, labour, resources or market. Most importantly, the Belt and Road Initiative can utilise their complementaries and share opportunities for development among the countries.

Promoting Chinese culture at the recent Mid-Autumn festival

In recent years, the number of Chinese enterprises investing in Bahrain has risen rapidly.”

His Excellency addresses the audience

www.bahrainthismonth.com

You have mentioned in meetings with highlevel officials your intention to build on Bahraini-Chinese relations. How do you propose to achieve this? Are there any cultural events planned or any high-level visits by either country?

Since I assumed my mission on April 19, 2018, I have presented my credentials to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and a copy of my credentials to HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Foreign Affairs. I have also met with more than 70 senior officials in the Kingdom. During my time as Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain, I will join hands with the Bahraini government and all the friends in Bahrain to promote our bilateral, friendly, cooperative relations to a new level. I am full of confidence for the bright future and prospect of China-Bahrain relations.

Bahrain attaches importance to China’s rising international status and influence and is eager to strengthen cooperation with China on international and multilateral affairs, to enhance coordination and cooperation on international and regional issues with common concerns, and safeguard our common interests.

At the invitation of HE Wang Yi, State Councillor and Foreign Minister of China, HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in the Eighth Ministerial Meeting of China-Arab States Cooperation Forum in Beijing in July. HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa will also attend the Fourth Arab Festival in China in October, 2018. We will continue to promote high-level bilateral visits. And the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China is planning to send a Chinese art troupe to perform in Bahrain to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

The Belt and Road Initiative is a development strategy adopted by the Chinese government. The ‘belt’ refers to the overland interconnecting infrastructure corridors — the Silk Road Economic Belt component. The ‘road’ refers to the sea route corridors — the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road component. The initiative focuses on connectivity and cooperation between Eurasian countries, primarily, and China.

October 2018 41

interview

Mohammed Almoayyed told Liz O’Reilly the story behind a very special rose.

Mohammed Almoayyed

A LASTING REMINDER

W

hen Deena Kanoo was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009, the young mum put up a fight so brave that her husband of 25 years, Mohammed, has likened her to the steel roses he has used as the logo of Deena Properties, the company the couple started together.

He says: “When one doctor told her she had only a year to live, she stood strong, I was the one who crumbled. I took my strength from her.

We saw another doctor who said ‘I’m not God, but we can try’. We tried a different treatment and she had another three and a half years and, I can honestly say, they were our best years – we were living and making memories.”

Deena tragically lost her battle in 2013, leaving behind a devastated Mohammed and the couple’s three sons, the youngest then just nine years old.

After a period of grieving, Mohammed decided he wanted to put into action a promise he had made to his wife when they were newly married. He explains: “We always loved gardening and, when we were young, I told her ‘One day, I will name a rose for you.’ I wanted to keep my promise and this seemed like the perfect way to have an eternal reminder of Deena and my love for her.”

As well as their base in Bahrain, the family has a chateau in France and Mohammed contacted the French company, Guillot, which has been producing roses since 1829, to set about making his dream a reality. He explains: “It took two years and I was able to choose the size, colour, shape and even fragrance of the 42 October 2018

One day, I will name a rose for you.”

Deena Kanoo

“A percentage of the sale goes to the grower, but with the money that was to come to us, we wanted to do something in Deena’s name. In the next village to ours, the French ASEV association runs a home for disadvantaged children – they may be homeless or their parents may be going through hard times or a divorce or something like that.

We decided we wanted to help them as a way of giving back. Starting this autumn, our proceeds for each sold rose goes directly to the association. Deena loved children and I think she would have been proud.”

The two older boys are now in the UK at university. Qais is still at home. And Mohammed says: “This has been great for us as a family. My sons were initially almost afraid to talk about their mother – they didn’t want to make me sad.

This has been a way to get us all talking about her and remembering her. And it’s also a way for her name to be remembered forever.”

rose, which we named Deena de Bussemont, which is the name of our chateau.”

The rose, which was first grown two years ago and was this year featured in the Pépinières Defontaine catalogue, one of Europe’s premier suppliers, is now the centrepiece of the chateau’s rose garden.

And, with commercial availability came another decision. Mohammed together with sons Kanoo, 21, Moayyed, 18, and 14-year-old Qais, sat down as a family to decide what to do with the proceeds from sales of the elegant, pink flower. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Start.Up! Germany Pitch Night

The Start.up! Germany Pitch Night 2018 took place at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Ahmed, Noor, Hala & Jenan

Ahmed

To view more images, scan the QR code

John & Oliver

Ahmed & Mohammed

Maria & Fatima

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bader

Waleed & Khalil

Martin, Boris, Stefan, Simon & Bernd

October 2018 43

interview

Award-winning artist Tejbir Singh tells Adnan Sipra how Bahrain’s unique architectural heritage inspired his already acclaimed art to attain even greater heights.

Tejbir Singh

THE URBAN ARTIST

W

hen he received an email in July, informing him that he had been nominated for an award in the online magazine DESTIG’s annual honours list, Tejbir Singh almost consigned it to the spam heap.

“My first reaction was that it was one of those online hoaxes,” the 56-year-old architect chuckles. “Then, I thought ‘Let me email them to see if this is actually real.’ So, I contacted them and they said I’d been shortlisted in the ‘Best Artist – Middle East (Mixed Media)’ category.

The funny part is I hadn’t even applied to be included in their list. I suppose they found my website and liked what they saw.”

A couple of weeks later, DESTIG, a digital, London-based cultural magazine for senior business leaders and with a readership spread over 80 countries, informed Tejbir that he had won in his category. “It came as a surprise,” he says, modestly. “But a very pleasant surprise, of course.”

Such acclaim is nothing new for Tejbir, whose career as an architect spans over 30 years. In 1990, while working for an architectural firm in Delhi, one of his paintings – an insightful piece incorporating the symbols of the world’s religions over a hand raised in prayer – attracted the attention of the World Council for Religions. Soon, at the council’s invitation, Tejbir and his newly-wed wife found themselves in San Francisco where his painting was exhibited at the organisation’s headquarters, along with the work of several other artists from around the globe.

And, in 2017, a painting he did in London was included in the 10 finalists list by the ART BOX art gallery in New York. Since the late 44 October 2018

I had to leave my wife and two young children behind for the first few months.”

1980s, in fact, he has exhibited regularly in group and solo shows in India, England, the US and Bahrain.

It is the Kingdom, though, that inspired Tejbir’s art to new levels, both in terms of creativity and frequency. Having worked in London through the early 1990s before moving back to India for a few years, Singh was offered a job in Bahrain in 1998 and, as he prepared for his departure, one impulsive decision would define how his art would pan out over the next 20 years.

“I had to leave my wife and two young children behind for the first few months,” he explains. “So, at the last minute, I threw my sketch pad, some markers and water colours into my bag because I realised I wouldn’t know anyone here and painting would help keep me occupied in my spare time.”

Soon, drawn in by the allure of Bahrain’s architectural heritage, Tejbir’s passion for painting combined with his natural instinct as an architect to create significant new pieces that garnered interest from several quarters, including the Ministry of Culture.

“At one point, the firm I was working for had several projects in Muharraq,” he says. “So, on my commute to or from work, I would often take a detour to explore the many old, historical buildings that dot the landscape there. Some of the paintings I did in my attempt to document this heritage attracted the interest of the art curator at the Ministry of Culture and, soon, I was commissioned to do small pieces that were displayed at the Bahrain National Museum’s gift shop.”

Now, as he relaxes after a hectic couple of weeks in London where he held an exhibition at the Nehru Centre, a cultural complex curated by the Indian High Commission, Tejbir reflects on how the two decades he has spent in Bahrain have made him evolve as an artist.

“I always thought of myself as a part-time painter,” he explains. “But my life in Bahrain has redefined that notion. Over the past few years, I have consciously been taking out more time to paint, to be more consistent. It shows in my recent work and, I suppose, the honour from DESTIG is the result of this new focus.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Charity Bike Ride

The Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, The Westin City Centre Bahrain, Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain and Marriott Executive Apartments held a charity bike ride to support the SMILE initiative to help children with cancer and their parents.

To view more images, scan the QR code The team at the charity

Mohammed, Sherif, Hussain, Maggie & Anne-Marie

Warren, Antoney, Hussain & Cristian

Cristalyn & Shifan

Orlando, Jona & Vanessa

Lester, Manny & Wael

Sreejesh

EXPERIENCE ICONIC URBAN LIVING STARTING FROM

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

October 2018 45

interview

Juffair hotspot, Klub 360, is in for an exciting rebirth with a team comprised of seasoned industry professionals under the management of Miami Events Bahrain.

Mohammed VJ and Alex Montana

LIZ O’REILLY

VETERANS IN KLUB TAKEOVER

T

he club quickly became a firm favourite with the island’s party people when it opened in 2012. Plush surroundings, frequent international DJ visits and a bigger than average VIP area put it high on the list of places to go for a great night out.

However, the launch of numerous new venues meant the time was right for a revamp to make sure Klub 360 retains its place among the island’s top nightlife venues. Hence the signing of a new management agreement with Miami Events, which operates venues such as Coral Bay. The club is now being run by nightlife professionals Mohammed VJ (better known as VJMP3) and Alex Montana, himself a DJ and veteran of many restaurants and club nights across the island.

Mohammed says: “Two or three years ago Klub 360 won an award from The World’s Finest Clubs, which looks at venues based on their interior, crowd, entertainment et cetera; we’re aiming to get back up to that level.

“The club has great potential but it needed experienced people who know how to make a nightlife venue work, how to bring in people and make them happy. It needs entertainment industry knowledge and this is our profession – I have been working in clubs since I was 13 with my first gig at the old Aqua Fuego!”

Alex adds: “I worked in restaurants but part 46 October 2018

Our attitude is that everyone here is the face of the club; we all have to contribute to the good atmosphere.”

DJ Lady Coco

of that was always promoting nightlife. I have done many events in the past, working with different DJs, local and international, then I started working with VJ doing events and

we’ve also launched a record company.

“In this club there is us not I. Miami Events Management brought in a new team of trusted people to add to those already here and our attitude is that everyone here is the face of the club; we all have to contribute to the good atmosphere while making sure it’s properly run so our guests can enjoy the best night.”

“We are slowly upgrading the lights and sound system and also undertaking team training,” says Mohammed. “We want people to be happy while they’re working, so they contribute to the good vibe.”

The pair are considering an official relaunch with an international DJ in the coming months, but for now they are already making changes.

To draw in the early evening crowd, the venue is now open daily from 6pm with a special offer — ­ open bar from 6pm to 10pm for BD25. There’ll also be various special promotions, and every night is ladies’ night with girls drinking free.

Both Mohammed VJ and Alex will be taking a turn in the DJ booth, but the resident will be DJ Lady Coco, from the US, and the plan is for her to play a range of hip-hop, R&B, reggaeton and charts up to midnight, moving into electronic sounds into the small hours. There’ll also be a special deep house night on Monday to keep the venue’s traditional house-head customers happy. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Jewellery Store Opening

Ramzana Jewellers held a grand opening ceremony in Oasis Mall, Juffair.

Shihab, Mohammed, Ishtiaque & Jalil

Mohammed, Shariq, Fatima & Kulsum

To view more images, scan the QR code

Sanjeev & Ishtiaque

Aftab, Hari & Shameed

Nishad, Shafiq, Jalil & Aysha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Prashanth & Ravi

Anand, Ahfaz & Afsar

Hasibul, Sabir & Munir

October 2018 47

interview

Mariam’s winning artwork

Mariam Mahran

In conversation with Suzanne Nicholas, winner of 2018’s JQA International Environmental Children’s Drawing Contest, Mariam Mahran, discusses her inspiration, her artistic process and more.

ARTISTIC TALENT RECOGNISED

T

he annual JQA International Environmental Children’s Drawing Contest, in Japan, is an opportunity for children of the new generations to be made more aware of their global environment through themed art.

“My mum remembers me drawing stick figures ever since I was two,” says 12-year-old Mariam, in response to my query about her earliest interest in art. Since then she has grown to draw sketches, landscapes and scenery.

Like most artists who have just had their talent recognised, Mariam is innocently unsure of her artistic prowess, as she shows me canvases and drawings coated with strong strokes of bold colour. “I’m not very good at drawing scenery,” she says nervously, although her drawings clearly show otherwise, depicting her liking for black, midnight blue and lavender colours.

Awed by her work, I inquire as to where she draws her inspiration from, to which she says: “I look at artists I come across on social media

48 October 2018

I have to draw quickly, though! If I stop drawing after an hour, I lose my inspiration.” and YouTube, then I develop my own style. For my sketches, sometimes I see people’s outfits and wish to draw them, so I do.” After putting some music on, usually Jason Mraz, she gets to work. “I have to draw quickly, though! If I stop drawing after an hour, I lose my inspiration,” she explains jovially.

Regarding her winning drawing, Mariam passionately explains her process, saying: “My Art teacher at Al Wisam School, Mr Jess, told me to draw something in relation to the

environment. He gave me ideas to choose from, and guidance, and I drew my picture with the message of helping the environment in mind.”

She elaborates on the procedure, which involved initially covering the blank space with soft, coloured pastels, then coating it with a soft black pastel, followed by finally scraping the black pastel off (using a sharp pen), in order to reveal the picture she had envisioned.

She smiles as she remembers finding out about her win, and says: “I didn’t know Mr Jess had sent it to Japan, and what a big deal it was, until I came to school one day and my teachers congratulated me!”

More than pleased with her win, she thanks her mum and her best friends, Aidah and Sarah, for being supportive of her ability to draw, and is especially grateful to her mum for constructive feedback, vital to her improvement.

Unsure of what the winning prize is, Mariam says, “I hope I win a ticket to Japan, as I love travelling, and want to see the world with my mum.”

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Cinema Anniversary

Mukta A2 Cinemas celebrated its second anniversary with a screening of Johnny English Strikes Again at its premises in Juffair Mall.

To view more images, scan the QR code

The cake-cutting ceremony

Nitin, Enry, Babu, Anup & Jo

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Heena, Mysha, Cheftausif, Mohammed & Laiba

Anil, Thanuja & Anita

Margaret & Caroline

October 2018 49

bystander

Opening Gala

HE Alfonso A Ver, Philippine Ambassador, and wife Caroline, in cooperation with the Filipino Creatives Bahrain, hosted the opening gala of an all-Filipino visual art exhibition entitled ‘Bahrain Through Our Eyes’ at the Bahrain Financial Harbour.

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

Janet, HE Simon Martin, Sophie & Angus

HE Vagif Garaev & HE Kemal Demirciler

Caroline, Retnani, HE Nor Huda, HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo & HE Padam Sundas

HE Dr A S U Mendis

HE Thanis Na Songkhla

HE Koo Hyunmo

Christalyn & Aymen

Match Day Event

The Bahrain Rugby Football Club hosted the second of its first XV’s Western Clubs Champions League games and its first home fixture of the year.

Kevin, Marcus & Lee

Carine, HE Simon Martin, Sophie & Mike

John, Derek & Mehdi

Andrew & Clare

50 October 2018

Paula, Alex & Bruce

Nancy, Kym & John

www.bahrainthismonth.com

fashion

AUTUMN-WINTER Apple Sharma

Michael Kors Collection

Who doesn’t like animal prints? Channel your inner beast with zebra or leopard prints and walk the city jungle with confidence.

Wear it in the original shades of black and white and browns, or experiment with colours, as seen on the catwalk of Zadig&Voltaire. Go glamorous by wearing the design in different fabrics like patent leather, or increase your street credit with a one-piece – if you dare!

Lipsy

ANIMAL INSTINCTS

2018

D&G

It’s time to say goodbye to suntans and bikinis, and say hello to winter woolies and boots. With the change in season comes a brand-new wardrobe. Add some colour and fun by trying out some of the hottest trends for this season.

Givenchy

AUTUMN BREEZE This is one of the easiest looks to rock this season. Get inspired by the autumn colours and the falling leaves – think earthy neutrals and shade spectrums of green, brown, yellow and red. For a perfectly put together wintery look, either go with different shades in the same colour palette or mix and match earthy tones, as Etro showcased on its runway. Designers embraced this trend with a range of hues from dull tans and browns to bottle greens and mahogany reds.

Zadig&Voltaire

Michael Kors Collection

Accessorize

Dune London

Michael Kors Collection

Style Tip: If you’re not feeling brave enough to wear the print from head to toe, then introduce it with single pieces like an oversized animal-print sweater over leggings and boots, or a statement handbag or shoes.

52 October 2018

Tory Burch

Marks & Spencer Longchamp

Charles & Keith

Marks & Spencer

Paul Smith

Etro

Hackett London

MICHAEL Michael Kors

Style Tip: For a luxe feel and look, pair burgundy with deep green and mustard yellow with rust – these combinations work beautifully together.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

fashion

ORANGE OBSESSION Frank Sinatra once said, “Orange is the happiest colour” and we agree! Bringing a sense of warmth and fun to this whole season, this is one trend that lit the catwalks of many designers including the likes of Lanvin and Tory Burch. Do what you will with this hue – go super bright or mellow it down with shades like burnt orange and terracotta.

Lanvin

Zadig&Voltaire Zara

Cristiano Burani

Charles & Keith

Paul Smith

Paul Smith

Tory Burch

Style Tip: Blend various shades of orange from light to dark in one outfit or colour block – orange with purple or pink – go on, give it a try!

TOPICAL TARTAN

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bershka

Debenhams

Accessorize

Paul Smith

Michael Kors Collection

Stradivarius

Versace

Style Tip: This is a bold trend, so if you don’t want to go criss-cross crazy with colour, then add just one element like a scarf or a hat to make a simple outfit stand out.

Paul Smith

Balenciaga

Checks have always been a big favourite and never really left the runways. But they’ve made a big splash this season with colour instead. Retire your monotonous greys and blacks and bring out the vibrant plaids, from reds and yellow to multi-colours of the Rubik’s cube. Take style inspiration from the catwalks of Michael Kors and Paul Smith, where the designers paired the pattern with florals and animal prints for serious runway envy.

October 2018 53

MOTORING

this month

My Life in Cars

Impressive E-Power, p59

DICK POTTER Once upon a time, even only 20 or 30 years ago, when a car was manufactured you could expect it to run fairly well for a while.

Introducing VC-Turbo, p60

You might also expect that, inevitably, after a time, something or other would go wrong with a part of it. If you were a bit of a mechanical Handy-Andy you could have a stab at fixing it yourself, or give it to a HandierAndy and – happy days.

Nowadays, with modern cars, should some part or other pack up, you most likely have to tow it to the dealer’s workshop. Therein, your ailing vehicle is plugged into a computer diagnostic gizmo that will happily – for the dealer anyway – tell you that such and such a part is required. It goes without saying that the part required is the ‘Very Expensive Part’ – obviously.

Whilst this is quick, easy and, more importantly, very handy for those non-mechanical Handy-Andy types amongst us, it is more expensive than bygone days.

That’s with all these replacement bits manufactured with their built-in obsolescence and the fact that cars nowadays neither stay on the road nor remain desirable for very long any more. What is the overall impact on the environment? Do we consider the environmental carbon footprint that is produced in making a car? OK, the emissions may be less nowadays (ahem, Volkswagen anybody?). However, 20 or 30 years ago, a similar car was built to last with more durable and repairable components inside it.

Today, everybody goes gaga when their new car goes 40 miles to the gallon (sorry 14.2km to the litre!) but hey, the clanking old Austin 100 I had at college did this – OK then, with a following wind! When you add up the CO2 footprint created in manufacturing and repairing the car, which is better? CO2, new or old?

We can ponder likewise on the electric cars of today. Are their components any more durable than those of a combustion engine car? Sure, there are no emissions but what about the electricity required to charge the car? Electricity, I might add, that is produced www.bahrainthismonth.com

by burning coal, oil or gas. Energy efficient? Really?

Electric cars may not be the solution for several reasons. Many, many auto makers use aluminium to make electric cars; this requires a tremendous amount of energy to process the bauxite into that aluminium. Also, aside from burning dirty fossil fuels and until batteries become more efficient, it takes more energy to produce an electric car than a conventional one. What about the disposal of those batteries? A study by an Institute of Energy and Environmental Research determined that "the carbon footprint of a battery car is similar to that of a combustion engine car, regardless of size".

In Germany, more than 50 per cent of electricity is produced from coal and gas. An electric car would need to drive 100,000kms to pay off this eco debt and produce overall less carbon than driving a gasoline car. If the car is from green energy, this is reduced to 30,000kms.

It takes more carbon footprint to make an electric car than a conventional car – the main culprit being the batteries, which are also contentious as they require precious and scarce mineral resources. These are copper, cobalt and other rarities, in which the procurement of many cause vast ecological and environmental devastation through deforestation, polluted rivers and contaminated soil. Furthermore, many of these scarce resources hail from China, the Congo and countries embroiled in controversial human rights violations. All this, to make a battery!

Right, then, anyone got a bicycle for sale? I need one to go do some tree hugging!

Email dick@redhousemarketing.com

The Real Deal, p60

A Fun Drive, p61

View more info online

October 2018 55

bystander

Jen & Emily

Grand Opening The Arch Hotel held a party to celebrate the grand opening of its E11even Club at its premises in Juffair.

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

Meerim & Ian

Peter, Vijayan & Alison

Club E11even crew

London & Holland

Shaji & Shaji

Marina

Dihann

Milton, Freeda, Michelle, Trish, Poonam & Nabeela

Oliver, Alex & Keyvan

Joji, Dany, Vijayan, Udai, Pramod & Vijay

56 October 2018

Jony & Paoy

Shane, Johannie & Leandra

DJ Mishka

A toast to the opening

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motoring BEHBEHANI BROTHERS: PORSCHE

Impressive

E-Power

Porsche’s hybrid saloon impresses on the track by topping a lap record at Bahrain International Circuit.

By achieving a time of 02:18:96 with the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, Porsche has established the fastest completion of a lap for a luxury four-door hybrid saloon at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC). The record in Bahrain is part of a wider programme, achieving six best times for this model category on six racetracks within the wider region of the Middle East, India and South Africa. The Stuttgart-based manufacturer put its performance credentials to the test, and once again reinforced the benefits of transferring technology developed on the track to road-legal models. As a descendent of the successful 919 Hybrid race car, the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid is the fastest and most fuel-efficient Panamera to date and forms an important part of the brand’s E-Performance strategy.

Piloted by Porsche testing and development driver Lars Kern, a standard production version of the four-door sports car took on the challenge of setting a record lap time at the BIC in Sakhir. The FIA-certified track, which hosts Formula One races alongside other international and regional championships, including the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East, is highly regarded by global and regional drivers alike. The lap record was set on the GP configuration of the circuit with its 14 turns, using standard road tyres. www.bahrainthismonth.com

“Setting the benchmark lap time for hybrid saloon models offered Porsche a unique opportunity to bring to life our Performance Electrified campaign – a communication platform that demonstrates how the combination of an electric motor and combustion engine results in the delivery of impressive power,” says Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE marketing director Markus Peter. “The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid was also chosen for this activity because it bridges our 70-year history of sports car innovation to our future of sporty mobility. To further demonstrate the model’s outstanding credentials, we took it to a total of six highprofile racetracks across the region, with expectations surpassed at every turn.”

“Porsche has an unrivalled heritage of setting lap records on some of the world’s most famous racetracks, so to now add the Bahrain International Circuit to that list is an impressive accolade,” says Colin Sattar, Porsche Centre Bahrain general manager, Behbehani Brothers WLL. “We often talk about the pedigree of Porsche sports cars as well as the impressive output of the brand’s hybrid models. This newly

set lap time is, therefore, the perfect example of performance promises brought to life.”

Porsche has continuously been at the forefront of advancing hybrid sports cars. In 2014, the Stuttgart-based manufacturer was the first to offer three plug-in models, across three segments. Fast forward to the present day and electrification continues to form a crucial part of its product offering, with the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid as proof of what electric technology represents for the brand. The electric motor provides extra boost to the V8, four-litre twin turbo combustion engine, enabling the luxury saloon to complete a 100km/h sprint in just 3.4 seconds, and offering extraordinary tractive force at higher speeds. Delivering a top speed of 310km/h, the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid sets unparalleled benchmarks in its class.

Performance, comfort and efficiency form a perfect three-way combination in the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid. It starts in the purely electric ‘E-Power’ mode as standard, and the four-door sports car drives locally over a distance of up to 50km, with zero emissions. When a specific pressure point is passed on the accelerator pedal, or when the battery charge level drops below a minimum value, the Panamera switches to ‘Hybrid Auto’ mode, at which point the power of both the combustion engine and electric motor are made available.

As part of the overall Performance Electrified campaign, the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid also set benchmark lap times at Yas Marina Circuit, UAE (2:31:79), Kyalami, South Africa (1:59:08), Buddh, India (2:12:56), Dubai Autodrome, UAE (2:19:15) and Losail, Qatar (2:24:12).

Visit Porsche Centre Bahrain in Sitra for more information.

Call 17 459-911.

October 2018 59

motoringnews&launches

New Appointment Having held the position of sales and marketing director at BMW Group Middle East, Dr Hamid Haqparwar will assume the role of managing director of the group with effect from October 1, 2018, succeeding Johannes Seibert.

An automotive professional with an extensive international background, he started his career at BMW Group headquarters and has held different senior management roles within BMW since. In his new role, he will be responsible for driving the BMW Group business and sales forward across 13 markets in the region.

Dr Haqparwar completed his PhD from the University of St Gallen,

Switzerland, holds an MBA degree from Western Carolina University in the USA, and graduated in Business Administration from the University of Mannheim, Germany.

Introducing VC-Turbo The new INFINITI QX50 is arriving in showrooms across the Middle East, further advancing INFINITI’s market-leading presence in the mid-size premium SUV segment.

The QX50 introduces what is possibly the most innovative internal combustion engine on the market at the moment: variable compression technology. The VC-Turbo engine delivers the strong and convincing performance of a V6 and the fuel economy of a four-cylinder engine – transforming on demand and based on the input of the drivers. Instantly adapting to their needs, the VC-Turbo lets them harness the exhilarating performance of 268hp and 380nm at 4,400rpm of torque.

The vehicle features INFINITI Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the unique combination of interior space, power, efficiency, hand-crafted quality and modern design, along with effortless on-road performance.

The new QX50 is available across the Middle East.

The Real Deal McLaren Automotive launched a new programme to authenticate the heritage of iconic McLaren F1 supercars, coinciding with the unveiling of the first F1 to be approved for certification, the renowned ‘25R’ 1997 F1 GTR Longtail Announced at Hampton Court Concours of Elegance, the new service aims to safeguard the originality of the iconic car for future generations – guaranteeing the authenticity of both road and track versions of the Le Mans-winning supercar. Along with the certificate, owners receive a bespoke illustrated book documenting the history of their car.

In total, 106 McLaren F1s were built between 1993 and 1998, among them 64 road cars and 28 GTR race cars, and all are eligible for the scheme.

“The car is the exemplar of everything that the new certification programme stands for and we are proud to have ‘25R’ as the very first McLaren F1 Certified car,” says McLaren Special Operations managing director Ansar Ali. 60 October 2018

A Benchmark in Compact Class The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is now available in Bahrain exclusively at Al Haddad Motors. Redefining modern luxury in the compact class and revolutionising interior design, the new A-Class is also the first Mercedes-Benz model to feature the completely new multimedia system MBUX – Mercedes-Benz User Experience. A unique feature of this system is its ability to learn, thanks to artificial intelligence. It can be individualised and adapts to suit the user. Its further strengths include the highresolution, completely free-standing widescreen display with touchscreen, plus intelligent voice control with natural speech recognition, which is activated with the code expression “Hey Mercedes.”

The exterior of the new A-Class stands for sportiness, dynamism and emotion. The progressive front design has a low bonnet, flat LED headlamps with chrome elements and torch-like daytime driving lamps. The striking radiator grille with Mercedes star features pins in a diamond look and a central silver louvre to underline the sportiness of this model.

Revolutionising the compact class from the inside with a new feeling of spaciousness, the unique interior architecture is shaped in particular by the wing-shaped design of the dashboard. The air vents in a sporty turbine-look are another highlight. The 64 colours of the optional ambient lighting make five times as many shades available than before, allowing a spectacular display of colour changes.

The starting price of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is BD12,995.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringnews&launches

A Fun Drive The Audi e-tron is the first fully electrically powered series production model.

Its expressive sill area, the electric tailboard and the light grey Singleframe are indicators of the high-voltage technology. It is powered by two powerful electric motors that are locally CO2neutral and virtually silent.

A key factor for the sporty character and outstanding transverse dynamics is the low and central position at which the battery system is installed, giving the vehicle a range that is suitable for driving long distances. During far more than 90

per cent of all decelerations, the Audi e-tron recovers energy solely via its electric motors. The electric SUV taps its maximum recuperation potential in combination with the integrated electrohydraulic brake control system.

Audi is the world’s first carmaker to use such a system in an electrically powered series production vehicle.

The optional virtual exterior mirrors are a worldwide first in a series production model. They reduce aerodynamic drag, and also take digitalisation in the vehicle to a whole new level.

A Celestial Partnership Nissan has unveiled two new vehicles at the 2018 Hannover Motor Show – the Nissan Navara Dark Sky Concept and the Nissan Navara N-Guard – both highlighting the marque’s increasing versatility in Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV).

Inspired by the cosmos, and developed in the UK, in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), the Navara Dark Sky Concept functions as a mobile astronomy lab, featuring a world-leading, observatory-class telescope on a bespoke off-road trailer. It also comes with upgraded ProPILOT driver assistance technology, upgraded to make it the most capable pickup for safe and convenient towing.

ESA precisely maps stars using the Gaia satellite, and the Nissan Navara Dark Sky concept helps astronomers conduct follow-up observations of the universe from hard-to-reach, so-called ‘dark sky’ locations – away from the visibilityreducing night-time glow of urban areas.

The concept includes a range of smart features such as the Intelligent Around View Monitor system, Blind Spot Warning, and Intelligent Towing Hitch Alignment.

Also making its debut was the Nissan Navara N-Guard, a tough and stylish special version featuring a number of exterior and interior design upgrades, extending the Navara’s appeal to those who want a superior pickup for off-road adventures. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Limited Edition Ride Hackett and Aston Martin have collaborated to create a Hackett edition of the Aston Martin Q Rapide S car, combining sensational sports car performance with Hackett’s key brand values.

Designed exclusively by Hackett chairman, Jeremy Hackett, in collaboration with chief creative officer of Aston Martin, Marek Reichman, the car’s Mako Blue exterior, Union Jack Aston Martin wings and 3D minted polo player side badges embody Hackett’s identifying values.

The interior is covered with a Prince of Wales check supplied by Fox Brothers and Co, with the inside of the accessories featuring a blue and white striped material, like a traditional suit lining.

Additionally, it includes highlights of Hackett’s blue colourway and embossed logo.

An exclusive luxury accessories range will also launch in line with the car, including a large holdall and a small 24-hour holdall both made from the check cloth with black leather piping and handles, adorned with the Aston Martin by Hackett signature label.

A Virtual Racing Concept Following the global launch of the McLaren Shadow Project – the virtual racing programme that mirrors McLaren’s real world – Bahrain-based Inaugural winner Rudy van Buren TIG Holdings together with UK-based motorsport agency MPA Creative and McLaren announced a dynamic new partnership. The triumvirate will promote esports across the Arabian Gulf region (GCC) through the McLaren Shadow Project.

This will be the first Arabic language esports competition, and will give a GCC national the opportunity to compete in the worldwide finals at McLaren headquarters in Woking, UK, in January 2019.

The competition aims to identify talent, attract broader consumer engagement, and provide road safety and driver awareness education across the GCC. “Our long-term agreements with McLaren and MPA Creative provide us with a solid and sustainable platform to expand this initiative across the Arab-speaking world over time,” says TIG Holdings co-founder and director Dr Mohammed Ahmed Jumaan.

October 2018 61

bystander

Microphone Madness JJ’s Irish Restaurant held its karaoke night, ‘Microphone Madness’, at its premises.

Kim, Gertrude & Frodo

Vicky & Ollie

Nour, Michael & Adnan

Ola & Noor

To view more images, scan the QR code

Partygoers at the event

Farooq, Mo, Ali & Adel

Fiona & Lecona

Stefan, Dragan, Olga, Nena & Yasser

Qais & Zoya

Ahmed & George

62 October 2018

Dee, Ahmed & Krshka

Filemena, Marina & Jea

Ezara, Ahmed & Linda

The JJ’s crew

Mirna & Murphy

Nena, Elita & Veronica

Adnan

Georgia

Moody & Martha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Middle East Clinics And Services

Internal Medicine

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Dermatology hair transplant

Dietician

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General practitioners

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italiandining

Si Grazie!

The cuisine of Italy is probably the world’s favourite of all, with staple dishes from the country being served across the Western and Eastern hemispheres. No wonder, then, that Bahrain, an island full of foodies and gourmets, has a great range of restaurants serving Italian fare to suit all occasions and budgets.

Italian food is often misunderstood as being laden with cheese, drenched with sauce and, more often than not, comprising only pizza, pasta and sometimes a stodgy risotto. If

64 October 2018

you experience some of the better-known Italian restaurants in Bahrain, you’ll find that there is so much more to the cuisine than what is peddled by global fast food chains.

Let’s start at the apex of superior dining that is Adliya. This locality is practically brimming with restaurants, many of which offer Italian fare. The eatery that deserves the first mention is La Pergola by Perbellini housed at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain. This is a recently relaunched dining spot, one that still holds old ground when it comes to excellent tastes and flavours of Italy.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

italiandining In the same district is Oliveto, another revamped spot that is a firm favourite with islanders. It is the place to see and be seen, so to say. But what makes it special is that the chefs are dedicated to serving you authentic Italian food, just how it’s served back in their home country – simple and fuss-free, but big on taste.

When it comes to Cico’s Italian Restaurant, old is gold. This one has been around for decades, and is a family go-to. In 2005, it was adjudged the best restaurant at the International Hotel and Restaurant Awards in Madrid. Need we say more? Other popular Italian venues in the vicinity are Café Italia, known for its stunning décor, and Mino’s, for its honest food and prices.

On the cusp of Adliya and Umm Al Hassam sits Masso, nestled within the Palace Boutique Hotel. It claims to use the best ingredients available to plate up tantalising food. Be sure to try something that’s been fired by Big Bertha, the venue’s ironclad charcoal oven.

Moving further towards Umm Al Hassam, Roma is another one of those restaurants which is frequented by the older, experienced gourmets as well as young, photo-snapping crowds for its exotic ambience and true flavours.

On the far side of this locality lies Juffair – another hive of eateries. Cucina Italiana has a rustic ambience that reminds one of the era of The Godfather and serves a cracker of a pasta dish. The restaurant holds its Italian Masterchef competition annually — a much anticipated event. Across the road is the fairly new Trattoria, at Wyndham Garden Manama. The red, chequered table linen gives off an informal, jovial vibe and whets the appetite as well.

Heading north towards Manama, you come across Coral Bay Resort, which houses the most significant Italian venue in terms of being the very first of its kind in the country, in 1979 – La Taverna. Although in a new and more happening location, the restaurant has retained its charm with its typical décor and food.

Enter Manama, and you’ll see the iconoclastic Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Inside, Vento dishes out many types of fresh, homemade pastas, pizza bases and breads – all nothing less than five-star standard. You’re sure to be transported to an Italian coast with such authentic flavours and ambience. A few metres across is the World Trade Centre and its very modish Moda Mall. Here you’ll find Baci, the newer version of what used to be known as Bice. Try its weekday business lunch and allyou-can-eat Saturday brunch that has over 30 dishes to sample.

Zoom through Manama’s main spine, and www.bahrainthismonth.com

you’ll encounter all-encompassing Seef. But wait, there’s picturesque Reef Island to explore before that. Pasquale Italian Restaurant has been touted to boast not only great food but also a splendid view of azure waters. Worth a weekend detour.

Stepping into Seef, there are so many gastronomic choices that’ll take you around Rome, Florence, Pisa and Naples. City Centre Bahrain presents the busy shopper Vapiano – a Euro-chic brand that has a special seasonal menu changing every two months. In the premises of Al Aali Shopping Complex are Nino and Fatto. Choose any one to walk out fully satiated with the best of Mediterranean flavours.

One of the biggest reasons Seef is so favoured is because it has The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. This stalwart hotel chain’s Bahrain branch houses Primavera, where aficionados of Italian cuisine come to savour the magic created by two-Michelin-starred chef, Oliver Glowig, and new chef de cuisine, Vincenzo Nigro. The fare is a fine mix of classic and contemporary, which can be enjoyed inside or on the outdoor veranda overlooking the pool and Arabian Gulf.

If you’re towards the southern part of the island, and crave a good Continental bite, there’s Maison Mathis at El Mercado Mall in Janabiya that serves a variety of Italian dishes.

The food has subtle foreign influences but is rooted in European culinary culture. Not far away, in Hamala, is Otto. This comparatively new establishment is known for its friendly staff and atmosphere, as much as for its delicious food.

If it’s a very special milestone you need to celebrate, one that deserves a romantic drive to Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa, Sea & Spa, then let it be at Fiamma. It has an antipasti bar, a trendy interior, and the heavenly smells wafting around are a small hint of the big flavours that await you.

While we’ve covered Bahrain’s mainland, let’s not forget Amwaj Islands. Rosso, in ART Rotana, is a well-lit and bright spot in which to savour fine Italian fare in view of a dancing fountain. At The Lagoon, Casereccio is a mustvisit for breakfast, lunch or dinner. If you’re specifically looking for good garlic bread and spaghetti bolognese, then these are absolute winners at Al Forno, which also offers sinful desserts and refeshing mocktails.

So many eat-alian options and so little time. Well, not if you start sampling them all right away!

October 2018 65

bystander

The Blue Room

Dihann Moore and The JazzMatazz Band performed at the ‘Blue Room’ night featuring an infusion of blues, soul and funk at CODA Jazz Lounge in Atiram Premier Hotel.

Marwa

To view more images, scan the QR code

Influencer’s Night Phoenix Eatery & Shisha Lounge held an ‘Influencer’s Night’ event at its premises.

Dihann Moore

Steven & Sushmita

Khalid

Augusta & Laurent

Loredana, Giovanni & Lamees

Roshini, Tanya & Hamad

Tammy, Marina, Olga & Nena

Kathleen & AJ

66 October 2018

Stephen

Samah & Samira

Hassan & Sujith

Mohsen & Jahram

Zainab & Fouz

Rebecca & Fello

Miranda, Donyale & Andrea

Tom & Anne

Ameera

Ebru & Eren

Karina & Akram

Salem & Rabab

Noor

Badar

Zainab

www.bahrainthismonth.com

italiandining THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

New Chef, New Taste

Chef Oliver, left, with chef Vincenzo

Apple Sharma tried some delectable dishes at Primavera Trattoria Moderna, the Italian restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, and met the chefs behind its new menu.

Primavera, one of the classiest Italian restaurants in Bahrain, serves exceptional Italian cuisine under the leadership of two Michelin-starred chef Oliver Glowig. As a lover of Italian food, I was excited about trying the new menu and tasting the creations of the newly appointed chef de cuisine, chef Vincenzo Nigro.

Coming from Southern Italy, chef Vincenzo’s family’s cooking traditions inspired him to follow his passion for food. His early upbringing in the kitchen led him to hospitality school at the Institute of Mauro Perrone, Castellaneta (Italy), at the age of 14. His culinary journey began in 2006, working at major fine dining establishments across London, Switzerland, Australia, the Maldives, Dubai, Russia and most recently Bahrain. Under the mentorship of chef Oliver and former chef de cuisine, Alfonso Ferraioli, chef Vincenzo’s career has soared since joining Primavera in August 2017, starting as sous chef and becoming chef de cuisine, a role he has assumed since August 2018.

My colleague and I were joined by some of the ladies and gentlemen from The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, including the GM Bernard de Villèle and chef Oliver himself. The brilliant serving staff were prompt to seat us and offered a glass of bubbly to start.

As the entrées rolled in, chef Oliver gave a quick summary of the dishes we were about to www.bahrainthismonth.com

enjoy, including some of his signature dishes.

First came Parmigiana di Melanzane – parmigiana three-way – traditional with tomato sauce; wrapped in mozzarella and fried; and a grilled eggplant-mozzarella-tomato-pesto stack.

I’m not a big fan of aubergine but it was heroed so tastefully and paired impeccably with tomatoes and cheese that I couldn’t get enough of it. Vitello Tonnato – veal Piedmont-style with tuna mayonnaise and capers – was a treat for the taste buds, delicately pink and succulently tender. The Uovo Croccante con Spuma di Parmigiano (O) – crispy poached egg – that followed was simple yet elegant. An ode to the humble breakfast staple, the dish came in a crunchy coating with a perfectly cooked yolk, complemented by the parmesan foam and freshly sautéed spinach. It looked as pretty on the plate as it was to taste – definitely worthy of a five-star restaurant. The starters came to an end with another beautifully presented creation of grilled octopus, potato salad, green beans and pesto.

We had barely disembarked the entrée train when a medley of main courses arrived. These included homemade fresh fagotelli filled with

parmesan mousse, crispy sage and butter; risotto, cooked in tomato water, burrata cheese and anchovies; seared tuna, panzanella salad, with cold tomato soup; grilled lamb chop, with tomato purée and lamb jus; and roll of oxtail with celeriac cream and crispy celery.

The risotto was my favourite – creamy Arborio rice had just the right amount of bite to it, with a wholesome taste of tomatoes, intensified by the silkiness of the burrata and the saltiness of the anchovies. My colleague raved about the grilled lamb chop – the flesh barely needing to be shown the knife before falling off the bone, and the tomato purée made a tasty combination with the rich lamb jus.

Another favourite was the oxtail – served in a mini crispy cup, and one of the standouts from the new menu.

Our evening came to a spectacular sweet ending with a trio of desserts. A duet of vanilla truffle and chocolate ice-cream coated with crunchy milk chocolate, and Neapolitan tart with ricotta ice-cream were both simply delightful. But the pièce de résistance, in my opinion, was the Tiramisù. The traditional dessert of mascarpone cream and espressosoaked ladyfingers is chef Vincenzo’s grandmother’s recipe. Creamy, light as a feather with a melt-in-your-mouth decadency, it leaves a lingering sensation to go back for more.

The tasting was an absolute hit and I will most certainly be returning to sample more delicacies from the new menu.

Call 17 586-499.

October 2018 67

bystander

Seumes, Dr Sarah, Angus & Hertz

Art Exhibition

To view more images, scan the QR code

Bahrain Writers’ Circle inaugurated the event, ‘Confluence: Where Words & Images Meet’ art exhibition at Bahrain Financial Harbour.

Rohini, Angus & Claudia

Thanuja & Vaijayantee

Shaikha, Akhram Miknas, Hertz & Nilanjana

Sangeeta & Kasturi

Bhupendra, Inakshi & Biman

Sarah & Melissa

Joz Salon High Tea Event Joz Salon hosted a high tea event at its premises in Juffair.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Ana & Pierre

Nawal & Fatema

Jazz Performance

Jazz singer, Dihann Moore, performed at Hazel Rooftop Lounge.

BJ Simmons & Dihann Moore

Sally & Mo

Lourdes, Jenifa, Anne, Nawal & Vinny

Ryan & Benish

68 October 2018

Anne, Buena & Mariyum

Adrean, Dihann Moore & Faisal

www.bahrainthismonth.com

italiandining

Michelin-starred chef Giancarlo Perbellini

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN

Refined New Taste Apple Sharma tried the culinary delights of Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s La Pergola by Perbellini, and met the Michelin-starred chef Giancarlo Perbellini, the man behind the magic!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

La Pergola at the Gulf Hotel has always held a soft spot for many, including myself, for its authentic representation of Italian cuisine and warm hospitality. Being relaunched as La Pergola by Perbellini, in partnership with multiMichelin-starred chef Giancarlo Perbellini, this newly revamped Italian eatery’s legendary status has gone up a notch.

Walking into the restaurant, my dining companion and I were welcomed by the friendly staff, with typical Italian greetings. We were taken aback by how different the interior looked – the minimalistic new décor is a combination of dark wood interspersed with shades of deep blue, seen both on the walls and the finishing. The naked Edison bulbs above the tables give the entire place a contemporary look.

After a brief introduction from the affable Italian restaurant manager, we chose a selection of delicious-sounding courses from the à la carte menu and settled down with a glass of bubbly. As we took in the soft ambience, freshly baked bread and amusebouche arrived. These delicious little morsels were just what our taste buds needed to get them ready for the gastronomic experience that awaited us. We began with Insalata La Pergola.

This simple yet refreshing salad, with iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, taggiassche olives, avocado cubes and Grana Padano cheese, was tossed in a subtle avocado dressing. Next up was an Italian favourite – thick cuts of fried aubergine, with buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes, olive and basil oil emulsion – by far one of the best aubergine starters I’ve tasted.

This was followed by two exceptional pasta dishes: mountain potato gnocchi and homemade ravioli. My personal favourite, the soft potato gnocchi had a superb flavour balance with Gorgonzola cheese, tomatoes and walnuts. The sweetness and tanginess of the sundried tomatoes cut through the sharpness and saltiness of the Gorgonzola so beautifully I couldn’t get enough of it. The light ravioli showed chef Perbellini’s take on the classic Italian with a modern twist and came stuffed with basil emulsion and topped with green beans, potatoes and pine nuts. The creamy

filling was the star of the dish, which contrasted deliciously with a surprise element of crusty potato crisps.

Still reeling from the deliciousness of the antipasti, it was time for the main courses. I couldn’t resist the temptation of Milanese risotto with fennel oil and orange sensation. The saffron gave the entire dish an eye-catching vibrant yellow colour, which was balanced perfectly with the subtleness of the fennel oil, bringing the dish together in absolute unison.

My companion was tempted by the chef’s special – sous-vide lemon seabass – but was persuaded to try the highly recommended Milanese Croccante – crispy escalope with tomato mayonnaise, seasoned salad and balsamic vinaigrette. A superb dish, the veal escalope – flattened tender meat covered in golden crisp breaded goodness – was served with a fresh medley of fennel, courgettes and crunchy carrots.

As we were still raving about the main courses, chef Perbellini comes to the table for a little tête-à-tête. Explaining the concept, he says: “It’s an Italian restaurant, but done in a contemporary way. The taste is traditional but the way we make the recipes is more modern.”

His fifth time in Bahrain, chef Perbellini has been visiting the Kingdom frequently to check out the local markets and produce. He’ll be in Bahrain three times a year, to change the menu – the next arranged for October-November.

“The influence of my cooking is the market and the season, so in autumn and winter we’ll start with cabbage, mushrooms and truffles – more earthy flavours,” he says.

We ended our meal with the lip-smacking chocolate biscuit dessert Cioccocrock. Topped with silky smooth tonka bean ice cream, the wafer base of the chocolate square added the crunch element to complement the creamy richness, and was served by a decadent, earthy barley sauce – a befitting final dish.

The satiating Italian flavours of La Pergola

by Perbellini, skilfully presented by this artisan cook, have raised the bar even higher for Italian cuisine and its connoisseurs.

Call 17 746-273.

October 2018 69

DINING

this month Chef Narendra Singh

Turning Over a Nu Leaf, p72

A Trademark Twist, p74

A Superior Seafood Experience, p75

Fit for the Samurai, p76

View more info online

70 October 2018

A Celebration of Flavour The name of the Indian restaurant at Wyndham Garden Manama in Juffair, Jashan, translates to celebration, and is an apt foretaste of the dining experience that Behnaz Sanjana had.

Teal, gold and ornate motifs on wooden panelling make for an inviting ambience at Jashan. The live Indian music after 8pm every evening adds to the essence of the venue.

To start off, my dining companion and I shared a Tamatar Shorba between us. The tangy tomato soup left a pleasant aftertaste of coriander and the heat of pepper. The starters on the menu all looked so tempting that we took the stewardess’ suggestion and went for the non-vegetarian platter. We got a great mix of grilled delights, of which my favourites were the melt-in-your-mouth lamb Sheekh Kebab and the Peshawari Murgh – chicken heavily marinated in yogurt, giving it a silken mouthfeel. The seafood starred Fish Tikka and Jhinga Kalimirch – prawns with a black pepper.

Dhaba Murg is the signature dish of chef Narendra Singh, who oversees the running of Jashan’s display kitchen. A single bite of the succulent fowl and its richly coloured, chunky gravy made it easy to see why it’s the most-ordered item from the mains. The preparation is a perfect blend of spices, intermingled with slivers of ginger that raised the flavour bar even higher.

We savoured the Daal Makhani, which had been gently simmered for a long time, giving it a deep, intense flavour. The Paneer Makhani was just how I’d envisaged it would be – a tasty, saffron-hued curry

bearing soft pieces of cottage cheese. It’s a customary fixture on an Indian menu, but oh so tasty.

Chef Narendra likes to surprise his guests with a ‘special of the day’ that doesn’t feature on the menu.

That night, we were lucky to eat Patiala Shahi Murg – pieces of chicken rolled up in an omelette that’s half swathed in a tomato-based red gravy, and the other half in an ivory, cashew sauce. All the preparations went well with the sesame-topped naan I’d selected from the assorted bread basket. I quite enjoyed its nutty taste.

The Nalli Gosht Biryani, an aromatic rice dish, was sealed tight with a layer of dough that had bubbled while the contents cooked inside. The stewardess cut it open to let out a fragrant puff of steam. We eagerly peeked in to see pieces of lamb shank embroiled in long grains of basmati rice, the very scent of which made my mouth water. The tender meat, mildly spiced rice and bitter-sweet fried onions played a harmonious melody for the taste buds. Although satiated, I had to request an encore.

To complete the royal meal that we’d thoroughly enjoyed, we were brought Kulfi and Gajjar ka Halwa.

The cold Kulfi, rife with the taste of cream and pistachio was a lovely accomplice to the warm, carrot pudding; the slight aroma of its clarified butter wafting up to my nose even before my first spoonful.

All in all, Jashan makes for a memorable dining experience, whenever you crave for authentic tastes from the subcontinent.

Call 66 316-666. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining GULF SUITES HOTEL AMWAJ

A Sporty Affair The new Guinness Smokehouse & Lounge welcomes guests to a world of leisure and recreation at the Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj.

Close to the lively Amwaj Lagoon, the Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj is an oasis of hospitality and luxury for residents of Bahrain and tourists alike. The property offers a range of wellappointed suites and apartments, most of them offering spectacular views of the lagoon and swimming pool. These living amenities bear the mark of a world-class hotel, but without the exorbitant tariffs.

The two-tower complex not only provides luxurious accommodation, but also premium dining outlets, which have made Bahrain’s happening crowd sit up and take notice.

Recently added to the existing three dining outlets is the brand-new Guinness Smokehouse & Lounge. It is the perfect hangout for sports enthusiasts and lovers of grilled and barbequed meats. Resembling an old Irish pub, the dĂŠcor

www.bahrainthismonth.com

complements the overall ambience of the place and contributes to a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

The various high-quality, succulent meats can be relished either grilled or barbequed, according to your taste.

There is plenty of entertainment on offer at the venue. All major sporting events are shown live on the 3x2 metre high-definition LED video walls and large smart television screens, so

fans need not miss their favourite games while they enjoy delicious bites and beverages.

Billiard and football tables, as well as other game machines, put the fun into dining at Guinness Smokehouse & Lounge.

The outlet is open every day from noon to 2am.

Call 33 180-001 or 33 159-437.

October 2018 71

dining AL ABRAAJ RESTAURANTS GROUP

Turning Over a Nu Leaf One of Bahrain’s preferred Asian cuisine restaurants has new surprises in store for you.

Nu Asia, Bahrain’s pioneering Asian casual dining restaurant, is celebrating its 10th year anniversary with a bang! The well-known culinary name has been refreshed, and has taken on a new brand identity. The restaurant chain has officially relaunched its flagship outlet at Al Aali Shopping Complex with a brand-new contemporary Asian interior and a re-inspired eclectic menu. In keeping with its fresh image, the venue’s décor has a chic, urbane vibe, featuring Asian-inspired elements including a 20-metre commissioned mural. The restaurant can accommodate approximately 120 guests.

The food repertoire boasts an array of dishes from all over the Asian continent. Some of the new dishes on offer are Pani Puri (an Indian street food favourite), Korean Bao Buns, Thai Massaman Curry, Mughlai Biryani and Phaal, a Bangladeshi curry so spicy that they’re calling it the hottest on the island! The new menu is available at all four branches: Al Aali Shopping Complex in Seef, Palm Square on Budaiya Road, Isa Town and Juffair. The four venues do takeaway and delivery orders as well.

Since opening in 2008, Nu Asia has become synonymous with casual dining, with emphasis on a high-quality, yet affordable, authentic Asian-inspired dining experience. The menu has always highlighted popular dishes from India, China, Thailand and Japan. However, it has now added dishes from other trendy Asian cuisines, including those of Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia and Bangladesh. Director of Al Abraaj Restaurants Group, Hamad Rashed says: “We are proud to relaunch our successful chain of Nu Asia restaurants with an allnew and improved look and feel, and a very exciting menu. Our flagship restaurant in Al Aali Shopping Complex has been the first to undergo this facelift, and we’re confident that all our guests will enjoy the new experience.”

Nu Asia is a part of the Al Abraaj Restaurants Group, which has served the best of Middle Eastern and international flavours to the Bahrain market for the last three decades. The group offers authentic tastes and unique experiences through its diverse portfolio comprising exciting new culinary concepts across the Kingdom. This currently includes Al Abraaj, Al Bindaira Café, Mashawi Al Abraaj, Nu Asia, LUMEE Street Café, TCBY frozen yogurt, Otto and San Carlo Cicchetti. Along with the total of 38 outlets, the group operates a dedicated catering division that provides buffets and outdoor catering facilities for private events, and employs more than 1,000 people across its operations. Al Abraaj prides itself on successfully combining heritage with modern innovations in taste and concepts.

Call 17 434-344.

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dining MIAM BAKERY-CAFÉ & RESTAURANT

A Trademark Twist

Miam is a quaint little eatery that can transport you to a different time in a different place with its vintage charm.

Miam Bakery-Café & Restaurant, located in Galleria Mall, Zinj, brings you a timeless, yet contemporary, dining experience. The venue is open from 8am to midnight, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is dedicated to satisfying and exceeding the expectations of its patrons in a relaxing and unique ambience.

The eatery sports European motifs, wooden floors and elegant furnishings to give an air of sophistication and cosiness. The aromas wafting in from the bakery section play their part in whetting the appetite, while reinforcing a homely feel. The beautiful outdoor setting gives customers the opportunity to savour a cup of brilliantly blended

aromatic coffee while enjoying the bustling scene around them. The food is filled with hearty goodness and involves an intriguing mélange of handpicked ingredients that are prepared masterfully to satiate your palate. Famous old recipes are presented in a new light, with an exciting modern twist.

The dining concept offers familiar tastes from all around the world, but with its own unique touch, using the healthiest ingredients. Some of the special items available at the outlet include bunless avocado quinoa burger (a great vegetarian option), charcoal and red velvet croissants, and spinach and quinoa muffin. Since the breads at Miam have garnered such fantastic reviews, the eatery has introduced its very own Miam Machboos – fresh bread stuffed with juicy, flavourful lamb machboos (rice) for the ultimate lipsmacking experience. Customers can call the restaurant to have their favourite dishes delivered straight to their home or office.

The restaurant has recently launched a business lunch, which is an ideal way to have a quick bite at a great price of only BD2.900. The three-course meal is available Sunday to Thursday, between noon and 3pm.

And there’s more good news for readers of Bahrain This Month. Miam offers a 20 per cent discount on your total bill from October 1 to November 8. Head to Miam today and mention Bahrain This Month to take advantage of this offer!

Call 17 536-377.

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dining LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

A Superior Seafood Experience

Suzanne Nicholas checks out Baharat’s Seafood Night at Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

I’d always heard great things about the themed nights at Le Méridien’s Baharat restaurant, and was looking forward to going to town on an apparently extensive buffet on Seafood Night that is staged every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm.

As my dining companion and I walked into Baharat, we could instantly tell we were going to spend quite a while at this buffet. Choosing to sit in a cosy corner of the well-illuminated restaurant, we ordered our drinks and headed for the soups. I opted for the Tom Yum Goong, Thai lemongrass and prawn soup. Seasoned perfectly, it was both tangy and spicy, with bits of ginger flawlessly complementing the other ingredients.

As a student in the UK, a staple part of my diet is a quick box of fresh salmon and tuna nigiri from the local supermarket. Therefore, I was understandably ecstatic to graduate to a selection of some of the quality sushi options available here – California rolls, maki and nigiri. I sat happily dousing my delicious sushi in soya sauce, forgetting even, for a while, to make conversation with my companion.

The warm finger food options were calling, and I certainly wasn’t going to ignore the call. The Crab Croquettes were perfect – crisp on the outside, with light and flavourful meat on the inside. The Prawn Kunafa, juicy prawns elegantly wrapped in string pastry, was equally appetising. The salads came in different forms and flavours, some sweet, some spicy, some tangy, all yummy! With the salads were placed two mounds of clams and mussels, both of which tasted mildly like the sea.

We gave our stomachs some rest as we chatted, enjoying the ambience of the restaurant, then made our way to the mains. I was glad I’d given myself time to breathe because from an inviting seafood paella to a crumbly, golden pastry-covered Salmon Wellington, the chefs had gone all out in preparing an enticing plethora of dishes, and I was going to try bits of them

all. There was even some flavoursome roast beef, which I thought was one of the best I’ve had to date.

The highlight of my evening was choosing from a selection of fresh seafood made to my liking. The chefs and attendants were very helpful throughout the night, especially in assisting me in choosing a sea bass fillet, which was grilled to perfection and brought out hints of coriander, garlic and cumin that played together to ensure the consumer could sing nothing but high praises. Likewise, the grilled fresh prawns were succulent and prepared to a T. By then, to say I felt like a balloon personified would be accurate. But there were still the desserts, and convincing myself that they go to a different compartment of the tummy, I resigned myself to the inevitable truth. Dessert was going to be had. We went for the kunafa, which wasn’t part of the buffet, but was recommended to us – for good reason. My first time having this dish, I was extremely confused as to how something can taste sweet, salty, crunchy and soft, all at the same time! It almost made me not want any more sweets. Almost. The dessert area was a colourful display of cakes, panna cottas, puddings, cheeses, all of which looked too good to eat.

Additionally, there was an Instagram-worthy chocolate fondue with accompaniments.

Let me just say, if you’re planning to check out Seafood Night, do not make the mistake of making plans for after (like I had), because for one, you will be too full of seafoody goodness to move and, for another, you will want to sit in your little bubble of contentment for the remainder of the night — also wondering why food doesn’t taste like that when you cook it.

The buffet is priced at BD24 including soft drinks and water, or BD29 including selected free-flow beverages.

Call 17 171-144.

October 2018 75

dining

BUSHIDO

Fit for the Samurai Unlike many other Friday Brunch spreads in town, the one at Bushido is a treat for the senses.

76 October 2018

Stepping into Bushido is like entering a different realm altogether – one of Zen mysticism, which is both chic and trendy. The décor is a perfect blend of austerity and opulence, with colours and vibes of a bygone Japanese era. Matching the interior in sensuality and appeal, the food served at the two-level restaurant and lounge is remarkable. The kitchen is bustling with expert chefs cooking up a wide variety of Japanese concepts – sashimi, sushi and robata – all done to perfection. Guests can order from an à la carte menu as well.

Come Friday, Bushido takes the brunch game up a notch with fresh food, tasty flavours and a huge array of Japanese favourites. The venue specialises in live cooking stations and freshly prepared dishes ranging from modern Japanese to more authentic options. The lavish meal costs BD19++ inclusive of water and fresh juices, or BD26.500++, with the addition of selected beverages and cocktails.

The buffet features a recently expanded selection of food, a fresh juice station, extensive salad options and a newly broadened range of seafood, as a result of the popularity of the sushi counter. Guests can savour a fabulous spread of unlimited sushi, sashimi, main dishes and desserts, along with thirst-quenching cocktails that have a good blend of Eastern and Western influences.

When you are ready to take on the main course, on offer are delicious hot dishes from the teppanyaki kitchen and live-cooking pasta station where the chefs are happy to prepare food to the guests’ preference. Don’t forget to leave room for scrumptious desserts. The highlights are a beautiful

display of sweet treats, a chocolate fountain, homemade chocolates and yummy ice cream.

In cooler weather, you can choose to enjoy your food and drinks outside in the stunning and unique surroundings of the lagoon terrace, where the soothing sound of the water will make your brunch experience even more relaxing. Bushido’s lounge music creates a sophisticated mood if you wish to dine indoors.

Call 17 583-555. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Talabat Prize Handover

To view more images, scan the QR code

Talabat held a prize handover event for the winners of its ‘Order & Win’ campaign at National Motors, Sitra.

Mirsal, Mohammed, Mattar, Abdulla & Hadi

he Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities, in collaboration with the Egyptian Embassy held a Tribute Concert Ttribute concert for Shadia presented by Egyptian singer, Nuha Hafez.

Nuha Hafez

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Esmeralda & Shaikha Hala

Mohammed, Ehab & Husam

October 2018 77

dining TALABAT

Have a Hearty Breakfast Do as the French In the mood for some French bread? Oui, oui! You will love Paul’s breakfast choices, from croissants to pain au chocolat, plus everyone’s top favourite – macarons, of course! It is recommended you store these in your fridge for a midday snack with your coffee. You can also order the outlet’s other well-known specialities such as crêpes, sandwiches, cakes, pastries and other heart-warming morning treats.

Go Bahraini Last but not least, you can’t go wrong with a timeless Bahraini breakfast. Go back to basics with Darseen’s classic local favourites, including Bahraini eggs and tomato, eaten best with salty mahyawa bread. Darseen has fantastic options for groups, so be sure to invite your friends, family or office colleagues to join in for an unbeatable deal. After all, breakfast is best enjoyed with good company.

Ordering meals from Talabat is a as simple as a few clicks of a button. Just specify your location, choose your dishes from your selected restaurant and place your order. You have the option to pay by cash or card on delivery. If you need inspiration, browse Talabat’s breakfast category and order the food that catches your fancy.

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

With Talabat at your fingertips, you’ll never skip your allimportant morning meal again.

Most of us live a fast-paced lifestyle, which can sometimes mean that there is no scope to prepare a home-cooked meal.

Even if there are leftovers sitting in the fridge, where’s the time to pack, or even grab a bite before you leave home every morning?

However, it is justified for your mother to frown at you if you skip meals, especially breakfast. But there’s no need for you, or mum, to fret. Just order in a healthy, fulfilling breakfast from the many available options on Talabat, Bahrain’s premier online food ordering platform. Choose from a great mix of gourmet options fit for a king. Below are some top favourites from popular restaurants on Talabat: Pizza to Start the Day Yes, that’s right, you can enjoy pizza for breakfast! Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne serves this delicious Italian delicacy from 9am onwards. Bite into heavenly dough laden with succulent toppings to take your taste buds on a journey to the pleasantly sunny Mediterranean. Or, if you are one of those people who enjoys eggs in the mornings, give the outlet’s delicious Mediterranean Eggs a try. You definitely won’t be disappointed.

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dining ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

Fun at Brunch!

Wembley Lounge is pulling out all the stops to give its patrons an exciting dining experience.

Wembley Lounge at the Atiram Premier Hotel in Juffair invites you to join in the Friday Brunch, touted to be the most fun, relaxed and entertaining activity over the weekend. Not to forget, it’s the most value you’ll get for your money.

Lounge manager, Tony Curtis, has been on the island for only five months but has fallen in love with Bahrain, which he puts down to the wonderful people from all over the world that he regularly meets at the venue. He says: “Friday Brunch is something that I had never seen until arriving in Bahrain. What an eye-opener it was and still is, when I see people simply enjoying themselves with great food and friends. It’s something that only happens in this part of the world and I love it!”

Wembley Lounge holds its brunch each and every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm, and Tony has introduced monthly themes to keep the fun going throughout the year. Last month saw a disco brunch, with guests joining in the spirit and dressing up in their best disco outfits. Upcoming themes include the End of Summer Pool Party and Halloween-themed buffet. In November, a Latin American brunch is on the cards.

Call or WhatsApp Tony on 33 640-009.

o D s ' t h e c L un r B

www.bahrainthismonth.com

October 2018 79

dining BENNIGAN’S

Great Taste and Value American-Irish favourite Bennigan’s offers fabulous food, entertainment and special money-saving promotions.

Widely renowned with locations around the Kingdom, Bennigan’s restaurant in Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, has a choice of delightful meals to suit every palate and is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The menu features something for everyone with great-sized portions, taste and value for money guaranteed.

Bennigan’s is the perfect place to blow off Sheelas Sriracha Shrimp

steam, catch a game on the wide-screen TVs, celebrate or just chill with friends.

Recently, Bahrain Family Leisure Company, the restaurant’s parent group, launched a new branch of Bennigan’s in Amwaj Islands, which has the capacity for 176 persons and includes both outdoor and indoor areas. Bennigan’s Amwaj provides its customers with entertainment activities such as a live band, which performs every day, and the venue offers a range of great promotions. Wednesday and Thursday are ladies’ nights from 7pm onwards offering girls three free selected

St. Brigid Prime Burger

Hawaiian Chicken

cocktails and 50 per cent off other drinks.

Family Friday means families are welcomed with a 25 per cent discount throughout the day from 9am to 6pm. And everyday sees the Gang Promo in which any ‘gang’ of three people or more will get three free starters when they order three main courses.

To bring that special Bennigan’s atmosphere closer to home, the restaurants also offer delivery bringing the full menu direct to your door step.

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

Steak and Ale Kensington Club with Brussel Sprouts

HIDDEN GEMS IN BAHRAIN

WINGMAN

by BILL GRIEVE

A

genuine Bahraini brand, Wingman, located on ‘The Strip’ opposite Fontana Towers in Juffair, is a small restaurant that seats around 50 patrons comfortably in an almost new, pristine surrounding. It offers great parking, easy access and an assortment of ‘Wings’ that will blow you away.

This is great food – in fact it’s brilliant – ‘wings ‘n’ things’ will not only fill you but also impress you, and eating here is an adventure for the children too.

Wingman Chicken Wings with bones, or boneless, are available in quantities of eight, 16, 24, 50, or even 100! There’s a variety of sauces to choose from – a whole wall-full, in fact – that will leave you salivating for more.

These include Hot Buffalo, Super Hot Buffalo, Dynamite, Honey BBQ, Jamaican Jerk, Asian

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Zing, to name but a few.

Wingman Sandwiches include crispy chicken and grilled chicken sandwiches as well as eye-popping Angus beef burgers and more. A whole range of dishes, such as Wingman Crispy Bites, Strips or Wings will amaze you. Lip-smackingly delicious Wingman Sides offer everything from Onion Rings, to Mozzarella Sticks and a mindboggling choice of fries – Seasoned, Cheese, Waffle, Wild, Mattai, Sweet Potato, and loads more.

It opens daily from 4pm to midnight.

There are more branches – in Riffa, Muharraq and Budaiya.

Call 17 494-941.

October 2018 81

tablehopping

When? Daily Event? Afternoon Tea Experience Venue? Lobby Lounge and The Ritz Gourmet Lounge, The Ritz Carlton, Bahrain

Savour items like Foie Gras Terrine, Organic Chicken with Espelette Chili, Pistachio and Spiced Pineapple Cake and Chocolate Mille Feuille for BD21++ per set from 3pm–5pm.

Call 17 586-499.

When? Daily Event? Buffet Venue? Al Safir Restaurant, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

Enjoy a sumptuous buffet spread for breakfast for BD10.500++, lunch for BD13.900++, and dinner for BD12.900++.

Call 17 533-533.

When? Daily Event? Opening Venue? Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza

The recognised world leader in build-your-own artisanal pizza is here on the island at The Avenues — Bahrain.

Follow @blazepizzame on Instagram

When? Every Saturday Event? Saturday Brunch Venue? re/ Asian Cuisine, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Feast on mouthwatering Asian selections for BD19++ excluding beverages, or BD37++ including premium beverages.

OCEANIC GEMS All through October and November, seafood lovers are invited to the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay to spend unforgettable Saturdays at Bahrain Bay Kitchen’s Sushi and Seafood Brunch. The spread will be a multisensory feast from the sea – crab and mussel display, seafood drizzled in flavoursome sauces, fresh French oysters shucked instantaneously, fragrant Spanish seafood paella, artfully arranged and freshly prepared local catch of the day, and fish and chip stands. Expect dishes inspired by the sea, such as beloved classics and reimagined traditional favourites, all prepared to personal preferences. The meal costs BD25++ inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages, or BD35++ inclusive of selected beverages. Kids up to 12 years will be charged BD12.500++ and kids below five years eat for free. Service hours are 1pm to 4pm.

Call 17 115-500.

ANNIVERSARY FIESTA The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s Cantina Kahlo marks its second anniversary, and what better way to celebrate than with its loyal guests who have come to love the authentic taste of Mexico.

The restaurant will put up a fun-filled gala where diners can meet the new chef de cuisine, Hector Miguel Mendoza Becerra, on October 18, from 7pm to 11pm. Enjoy traditional favourites, Mexican grills and festive décor as the venue celebrates its second successful year. The meal is priced at BD40 including selected beverages, or BD30 with soft drinks.

Call 17 586-499.

BURGER & BARLEY POP The Lagoon at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa enables guests to dine alfresco with an oceanfront view by the glistening swimming pool.

Diners can savour the outlet’s signature lagoon gourmet burger along with a pint of barley pop for only BD12.500. This offer is on every day as you relax and kickback by the beautiful poolside.

Call 17 636-363.

EXPERIENCE THE VERY BEST

Call 17 115-046.

Michelin-starred Japanese chef Takagi Kazuo is back by popular demand at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s Sato Japanese eatery. From October 24 to 27, guests can meet the culinary maestro and experience his one-of-a-kind Japanese culinary authenticity at the hotel’s award-winning Sato restaurant. Diners will be treated to a refined blend of culinary traditions with chef Takagi’s exquisite dishes, including grilled cod soup with yuzu pop rice, sushi bonbon, shrimp and corn karaage, and Wagyu beef teriyaki. His exceptional creations are available as an à la carte selection or a seven-course degustation menu, and will reflect the best seasonal produce presented in his renowned artistic style.

Call 17 713-000.

When? Until October 7 Event? Oktoberfest Venue? Tapas, Sofitel Bahrain

Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Experience one of the largest volksfests with traditional Deutsch food and beverages, and live German entertainment.

Call 33 236-772 / 17 636363.

When? October 26 Event? Halloween-Themed Brunch Venue? Baharat Restaurant, Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain

Experience a spooky and sweet Halloween Brunch for BD26 including soft drinks and water, or BD38 including selected free-flow beverages.

Call 17 171-144.

When? October 26 Event? Scream Halloweenthemed Brunch Venue? La Mosaique Restaurant and Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Enjoy this thrilling brunch for BD31inclusive of unlimited selected beverages.

Call 17 531-122.

82 October 2018

A GERMAN AFFAIR Enjoy the Oktoberfest Brunch at Baharat at Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain, with Bavarian food delicacies, chilled ale and live music. This themed brunch series will be offered on three Fridays of the month: October 5, 12 and 19, from 12.30pm to 4pm. The meal costs BD26 including soft drinks and water, or BD38 including selected free-flow beverages. Live music from the vibrant duo, Deux Sons, will entertain one and all. Book for over 10 people and receive a 20 per cent discount.

Call 17 171-144.

A SPECIAL SPREAD Primavera, also known as the ‘Trattoria Moderna’, at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain offers a traditional, yet exciting, Pink Menu from October 1 to 31. The tasting menu’s style will reflect authentic Italian cuisine crafted by chef de cuisine, Vincenzo Nigro. For the occasion, the chef and his team will be preparing succulent pink dishes such as Beetroot risotto with baby beet and pan-fried goat cheese. The meal is priced at BD26.

Call 17 586-499. www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

NEW MENU Foodies can soon take delight in the refreshing flavours and tantalising dishes from Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia that will be a part of the all-new menu at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s Rasoi By Vineet. It is the first fine-dining restaurant of its kind in Bahrain, and has become one of the Kingdom’s favourite culinary destinations. The venue offers a unique and modern interpretation of traditional Indian food. The décor, with its vibrant colours, sparkling crystals and a large see-through window into the kitchen, aims to create a dramatic setting to experience this food.

Call 17 713-000.

PREPARE TO BE SCARED Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain presents one of this year’s spookiest Thursday Nights Out, on October 25 from 7pm onwards, and Friday Brunch on October 26 from 12.30pm to 5pm. A wide selection of Halloween-themed drinks, a live band and the DJ will keep the vibe going. Dress up in your spookiest outfit to win prizes for the best Halloween costume. The Thursday Night Out is priced at BD32, and Friday Brunch is priced at BD36. Both prices include unlimited beverages.

Call 17 460-017.

GO PINK La Med at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain will stage a Pink Friday Brunch on Friday, October 12, from noon to 4pm. Enjoy special pink savoury dishes and decadent desserts at the restaurant for BD30 with soft drinks, or BD35, with selected beverages. Five per cent of the total proceeds raised will be donated to the Think Pink Bahrain charity.

Call 17 586-499.

SUPER STREET FOOD Soie Restaurant at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel introduces a new Asian Street Food buffet every Thursday and Friday from 7pm to 11.30pm. Don’t miss this lip-smacking spread full of Chinese and Malaysian dishes for only BD15 per person. A new à la carte menu is also available at the restaurant.

Call 17 533-533.

A ROYAL LUNCH Enjoy the perfect assortment of delicious regional Indian dishes in the form of a lavish platter called the thali every day from noon to 3pm at Jashan, the Indian restaurant located at the Wyndham Garden Manama in Juffair. The price for adults is BD3.500++ and kids between the ages of six and 12 years dine for BD1.750++. Younger children eat for free. There is an option of a non-vegetarian or vegetarian thali.

Call 66 316-666.

When? October 1–31 Event? Raise a Glass Venue? Bay View Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Sip on ‘Pink Hug’ — a refreshing mocktail with sweet and citrus notes prepared with homemade lemon grass and ginger tea, topped up with fresh pomegranate juice and elder flower ice sphere for BD4++. 500 fils will be donated to Think Pink Bahrain.

When? October 1–31 Event? A Pink and Sweet Delight Venue? The Ritz Gourmet Lounge and Lobby Lounge, The RitzCarlton, Bahrain Pair your teatime with a special pretty pink pastry by executive pastry chef Jonathon Challenor, starting from BD4.

Call 17 586-499.

When? October 1–31 Event? Pink Cocktails Venue? Blue Moon Lounge and CUT Bar and Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

BD1 will be donated to Think Pink Bahrain from the sale of pink beverages: Forbidden Kiss and Crackling Rosie.

When? October 8 and 16 Event? Celebrate Pink Dinner Venue? Capital Club Call 17 100-100.

When? October 12 Event? Pink Brunch Venue? Gulf Hotel Bahrain

BD2 per brunch reservation goes to Think Pink Bahrain charity.

Call 17 713-000.

When? October 13 Event? Think Pink Golf and BBQ Venue? Royal Golf Club Call 38 496-912.

AN ELITE DINING EXPERIENCE Le Sauvage at The Domain Hotel and Spa is known to offer some of the finest-quality in-house aged beef and meat cuts in town, which are dry aged, resulting in greater concentration of flavour and taste. When paired with boutique-style grape that offers a balance of aroma, flavour and texture, the overall taste of the dish is accentuated. The restaurant has introduced a degustation pairing menu, which involves eight small plates of gourmet preparations each paired with 150 millilitres of the best match of grape. The intriguing menu is priced at BD64++ per person. Some of the dishes on the repertoire include Slow Poached Alaskan King Crab Salad, Wagyu Beef Tartare, Pan-seared Foie Gras and Boerewors Sausage.

Call 16 000-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

October 2018 83

marketplace INTERCOL

Sleek and Durable Phone Favourites

Nokia 5.1 Nokia 3.1

Nokia 6.1

Nokia, available in Bahrain through International Agencies Co Ltd, offers the go-to smartphone trio that fans can rely on.

The models Nokia 6.1, 5.1 and 3.1 are part of the renewed portfolio of Nokia Android smartphones, underpinning the hallmark design and quality known to any Nokia phone.

Nokia 6.1 With a powerful performance and a more durable body, Nokia 6.1 offers enhanced DualSight, ZEISS optics, USB-C fast-charging and pure, secure and up-to-date Android Oreo.

The New Nokia 6 represents the perfect symbiosis of precision craftsmanship and endurance thanks to its unibody made from a solid block of 6000 series aluminium and the damage-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass.

For added security and ease, you can unlock the phone with your face.

Nokia 6.1 is available in black/copper, white/ 84 October 2018

iron and blue/gold; two storage/RAM options: 3GB/32GB and 4GB/64GB, at a price of BD92 (3GB/32GB) or BD110 (4GB/64GB) across retailers in Bahrain.

The new Nokia 5.1 will come in copper, tempered blue and black; two storage/RAM options: 2GB/16GB and 3GB/32GB, at a price of BD67 (2GB/16GB) or BD77 (3GB/32GB).

Nokia 5.1 The Nokia 5.1 offers a classic yet compact and stylish design with a higher resolution 5.5-inch Full HD+ display for you to make the most of your favourite content.

With a faster performance powered by the 2.0 GHz MediaTek Helio P18, Nokia 5.1 also offers an upgraded 16MP rear camera with phase detection auto-focus and a wide-angle front camera.

You can also unlock your phone and pay securely with NFC through Google Pay, in selected markets, thanks to the rear fingerprint sensor.

Running on Android One, Nokia 5 offers more storage and battery life, as well as the latest AI-powered innovations from Google.

Nokia 3.1 With a perfect harmony of materials, the Nokia 3.1 offers you a stunning design along with a 5.2-inch HD+ display also protected by damage resistant Corning Gorilla Glass.

Running on MediaTek 6750, an octa-core chipset, you enjoy a more powerful and faster performance. It also offers an upgraded 13MP main camera with auto focus, and a set of sensors for you to make the most of popular AR apps and pay securely with NFC on Google Pay, in selected markets.

The new Nokia 3.1 comes in blue/copper, black/chrome and white/iron; two storage/RAM options: 2GB/16GB and 3GB/32GB, and is priced at BD49.990 (2GB/16GB) and BD59.990 (3GB/32GB). www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace BAHRAIN JEWELLERY CENTRE

Baselworld 2018 Novelties Patek Philippe introduced two of its latest offerings at Baselworld 2018 – Nautilus and Aquanaut – casual elegance paired with impressive complications.

With the first perpetual calendar in the Nautilus collection and the first chronograph in the Aquanaut range, Patek Philippe has further enhanced the appeal of its two refined, sporty watch families. The debuts introduce new patented fold-over clasps that stand out with improved safety features.

In the domain of casual elegance, Patek Philippe established a strong position with two

watches that gained cult status: the Nautilus and the Aquanaut. The first of the two was launched in 1976, sporting a unique style with an octagonal bezel and a porthole-inspired design. In the meantime, it has been followed up by women’s and men’s versions with various complications, among them a self-winding chronograph, a second time zone, and the patented Annual Calendar. The Aquanaut,

introduced in 1997, epitomised contemporary casual chic. Its youthful, modern and unusual style was a big success from the very start.

The Aquanaut was also presented in feminine (the Aquanaut Luce with a diamond-set bezel) and masculine versions, and is available with the exclusive Travel Time mechanism that displays a second time zone with persuasive simplicity and remarkable clarity.

Ref. 5740/1G-001 Nautilus with a perpetual calendar

Patek Philippe presents the first grand complication in the Nautilus line, showcasing an analogue perpetual calendar, one of the manufacture’s most coveted classics since 1985. It is a unique combination of casual sportiness and technical finesse, robustness and high-end watchmaking artistry, endowed with the discreet elegance of an 18K whitegold case and the utility of a calendar that automatically recognises the number of days in each month, including the periodically recurring February 29.

Thanks to the famous ultra-thin self-winding calibre 240 movement, a recessed 22K gold minirotor and a particularly slender calendar module, the 8.32mm high case – it is water resistant to 60 metres – is remarkably svelte. In fact, it is Patek Philippe’s thinnest perpetual calendar. The architecture of the movement and its refined finissage, including the bridges with chamfered and polished edges as well as the Calatrava cross engraving on the winding rotor, can be admired through the sapphire86 October 2018

crystal display back.

The characteristic design of the bezel is emphasised by vertically satin finished surfaces that contrast against polished chamfers. The dial is decorated with raised horizontal embossing, a typical facet of men’s Nautilus watches, and features the same sunburst blue that graced the versions released on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Nautilus in 2016. The porthole-inspired case design gave this model its name. Legibility in daylight and in the dark is optimised with broad hour and minute hands as well as the applied white-gold hour markers with luminescent coatings. The three subsidiary dials of the perpetual calendar with analogue displays (day of the week and 24-hour dial at 9 o’clock, month and leap-year cycle at 3 o’clock, date and moon phases at 6 o’clock) are harmoniously integrated in the subtly rounded octagon of the dial. A refined detail is that the subdial for the date, the most important calendar indication, is slightly larger

than the two others. The 24-hour display simplifies calendar settings. The moon-phase display is extremely precise. It is controlled by a mechanism that deviates from the actual position of the moon by merely one day every 122 years.

The correctors of the perpetual calendar (day correction at 9 o’clock, date correction between 11 and 12 o’clock, month correction between 12 and 1 o’clock, moon-phase correction at 6 o’clock) were optimally positioned with an ingenious system of deflection mechanisms and seamlessly integrated in the Nautilus case design.

The white-gold bracelet, also integrated in the case, echoes the finissage of the case and bezel, alternating polished central links with satin-finished lateral links. To improve wearing comfort, Patek Philippe has introduced a totally new, patented fold-over clasp. It features four independent catches to optimise opening and closing and to prevent the unintended release of either of the two clasp segments. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

Ref. 5968A-001 Aquanaut Chronograph The Aquanaut collection, the embodiment of contemporary sportive chic, now welcomes its first chronograph. It is a complication that perfectly matches the personality of this young and dynamic model range. To prepare it for every conceivable situation of an active lifestyle, Patek Philippe endowed the new Ref. 5968A-001 with the CH 28-520 C calibre, a selfwinding flyback chronograph movement that persuasively melds tradition with innovation. It combines classic column-wheel control with the modern, vertical disc clutch which prevents hand bounce and rebound when starting the chronograph. Because this clutch is virtually friction-free, the sweep chronograph hand can also be used as a continuously running seconds hand. This eliminates the need for a seconds subdial.

Thanks to the flyback function, the wearer can actuate the pusher to initiate a new measurement while the chronograph hand is running, which makes a reset superfluous. The transition from the chronograph to the running

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seconds function allows the watch to be synchronised with a time signal by using the stop seconds feature.

This new Ref. 5968A-001 in steel also attracts attention with its unique aesthetic appeal and the very balanced integration of the chronograph in the exclusive Aquanaut design.

The 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock adopts the characteristic contours of the gently rounded octagonal bezel. The elongated pushers are harmoniously integrated on both sides of the crown protector. The chronograph displays (chronograph hand, the peripheral railway track scale with quarter-second divisions, 60-minute counter) are orange and contrast well against the black dial with the typical Aquanaut embossed pattern. Excellent legibility is guaranteed by applied Arabic numerals in white gold and the broad baton hands – all with luminous coatings.

Thanks to its screw-down crown, the rugged case is water resistant to 120 metres. It exhibits a refined alternation of delicately satin-

finished surfaces and flanks, producing the same interplay of light as the bezel with its smooth glossy surfaces and polished chamfers.

The composite strap is embossed like the dial. It is very comfortable on the wrist and highly resistant to abrasion and wear as well as to salt water and UV radiation. Patek Philippe delivers the watch with two straps: the black one is standard issue and can be replaced with the orange strap that amplifies the bold accents of the dial.

With the new Ref. 5968A-001, the manufacture also assures fitness for use by introducing an innovative fold-over clasp. It has four independent catches for enhanced opening and closing functionality.

Bahrain Jewellery Centre is the authorised retailer for the brand in the Kingdom. Visit Patek Philippe Boutique at Moda Mall for more information.

Call 17 520-055.

October 2018 87

marketplace TONI&GUY

Latest Hair Trends Toni&Guy experts take a look at some cool hair trends that have dominated this year.

Some of the top stylists at Toni&Guy spilled the beans on which looks they’re loving in 2018. Some are bold, some experimental, some even super subtle. But you’ll definitely be booking an appointment by the time you get to the last style.

Retro Realness “We may be looking forward to the rest of 2018 but, when it comes to hair, we’re being inspired by decades past,” says a Toni&Guy stylist. “I think we’ll see a mix of ’70s- and ’90s-inspired looks. Healthy, fluffy hair is in right now. We have been playing around with roller sets, which is a timeless way to achieve this look. We set it, let it sit, brush it out and let it do what it does — no heat required.”

Messing Around Leave the angular styles behind and try out something a little more curvaceous. Rounded-under styles (à la Michelle Pfeiffer in Scarface) are the rave, according to the experts.

Take your cue from Margot Robbie, who rocked the look like a pro on the red carpet.

The Long Pixie Longer pixies make a lot of sense since so many women in Hollywood made the big chop last year and are starting to grow them out.

All Lined-Up Buzz cuts are still having a big moment and folks are looking for all kinds of ways to spice up their crops. “We’ll be seeing a lot of haircuts with lines etched in them — taking undercuts to a whole new level,” says one stylist. “I would love to see this on women of all ethnicities and ages and even add colour to it.”

That Bob Life The bob is here to stay — it’s a classic, always has been, always will be. And it’s versatile; you can wear it straight, curly or wavy.

Structured Updos We’ve been seeing a lot of great updos on the red carpet and we should expect more. Sleek and structured updos are beautiful ways of showing off a woman’s features and a dress, while giving an artful approach to her hair.

What Haircuts?

The no-haircut haircut. “A lot of our clients don’t want to look like they just got a super clean, fresh cut — just soft, healthy ends,” says the stylist.

Call 17 001-700.

88 October 2018

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marketplace

Phoenicia Decor

A NEW LOOK!

Natuzzi Italia, Italy’s most widely recognised furniture brand, presents a brand-new look for its Bahrain store.

N

atuzzi Italia’s Bahrain store is its largest in the world, reflecting elegance and inviting ambience for customers looking for luxurious ‘Made in Italy’ home furnishings and accessories.

Located in the Seef district, the expansive store now features modern decorations highlighted by high ceilings and decorative dividers. Each element represents the beautiful and luxurious taste of Pasquale Natuzzi, founder, chairman and CEO of Natuzzi Group.

The colours of the walls, the combination of grey and black floors, the floating counter, curtains and dividers of different designs, materials and sizes express beauty and are perfectly in tune with the elegant surroundings.

“As sole distributors of the world-renowned sofa maker Natuzzi Italia, we at Phoenicia Decor are very proud to present our newly renovated Natuzzi Store in Seef area,” says Phoenicia Decor CEO Nabeela Alkhayer. “The design of the store reflects the latest trends and taste of the brand’s clientele. As it is also the brand’s largest showroom in the world, this indicates the

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tremendous importance and relevance of the fast-growing and dynamic furniture market of this region in general, and Bahrain in particular.”

The store also houses the Natuzzi Design Studio, which has been established to cater to clients looking to create a home that reflects their style. Customers can visit the studio and a design expert will assist them to achieve the look that they want. Here, a new 3D virtual space planning programme, combined with on-site finish and fabric samples, enables designers to work on their client’s living quarters, helping

them visualise the end results in real time.

The Bahrain store is one of Natuzzi Italia’s flagship locations along with Milan, Paris, Madrid, Sydney, Shanghai, Seoul and the newly opened store in New York. The brand has 290 global store locations and 1,192 points of sale.

Natuzzi Italia is made entirely in Italy where the company controls all aspects of design, materials and production, and from which it draws inspiration for a way of living.

Call 17 564-444.

October 2018 89

marketplace AMBASSADOR STORES

A Collector’s Piece With the Presage range of timepieces, Japanese mega brand Seiko reiterates its fine watchmaking that is inspired by traditional craftsmanship.

Seiko’s Presage range combines a Japanese aesthetic sense with traditional handiwork. The line presents the brand’s mechanical watchmaking skills in an original collection that offers Oriental beauty, quality and long-lasting performance.

The inspiration for each series of Presage comes from different aspects of Japan – from traditional culture to engineering craftsmanship, and from fine art to industrial design. In shaping the Presage, Seiko collaborates with artisans in all these fields and integrates classic designs, techniques and advanced technology to create a unique collection of fine wristwatches.

The new Presage limited editions feature deep blue Shippo enamel dials which mirror the colour of the ocean. As an archipelago surrounded by the sea, Japan is a nation with great affinity to the oceans across which ideas, industry, materials, culture, food and art, including Shippo enamel, have travelled to its shores over the centuries. The range of finely crafted watches reflects the serenity of the blue seas.

Each dial is made by Ando Cloisonne, a specialist manufacturer in Nagoya, with history dating back over 100 years. Manufacturing these dials is a complex process requiring sophisticated techniques and experience. First, craftsman Wataru Totani hand paints the surface of the dials with a special lead-free glaze, specially developed for these watches, to ensure that the dials comply with Seiko’s high ecological and safety standards as well as the EU’s RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive. Careful skill is needed at this stage as the glaze is fragile and easily damaged. The dial is then fired at 800 degrees Celsius.

The painting and firing processes are repeated several times to ensure the evenness of the enamel. Only when Totani is completely satisfied is the dial polished, so that the delicate pattern emerges and a perfect, smooth surface is achieved. These dials are offered in two designs, each in a limited edition of 2,500 pieces – Multi-hand Automatic 6R27 with date and power reserve sub-dials, and Automatic 6R15 with a date window at the three o’clock position. Both dials have a delicate wave pattern and a minute track that echoes the design of Seiko’s very first pocket watch, the 1895 Timekeeper. The crystals are dual-curved sapphires and the tips of the minute and second hands are shaped by hand to reach right to the edge of the dials, providing increased legibility.

The beautifully engraved oscillating weights are clearly visible through the sapphire case backs.

Seiko watches are exclusively available at Ambassador Stores in Bahrain. The shop showcases high-end brands like Yamaha, Audio Technica, Shure, Hercules and Proel, and is also the sole distributor of Alba watches in the Kingdom. Ambassador Stores offers its discerning customers in Bahrain the best brands in musical instruments, high-quality home entertainment systems, elegant and much sought-after watches and clocks, and the very latest high-tech gadgets and accessories.

Call 17 225-513.

90 October 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

Life’s A Beach

The five-star Four Seasons Bahrain Bay has completed its transformation from an urban retreat to a fully-fledged beach resort.

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A destination within a destination awaits visitors at the Bahrain Bay property with the addition of the exclusive Four Seasons beach.

Curving along the private island’s sun-drenched southern shore, the 160-metre expanse of pristine white sand is the ideal retreat for all the family. In addition to a dedicated play area, where children can enjoy building sandcastles, parents and couples can look forward to a quieter zone, providing a tranquil haven to lounge in the sun, sip a cool drink or take in the city’s spectacular sunsets.

GM, Richard Raab, says: “During our first three years, guests have been generous in their praise of Four Seasons, revelling in the many diversions we offer right here on our own private island in the city.

When we asked what would make their experience more memorable, the answer was almost always the same: a beach. So, we are delighted to now open the beach, which completes the hotel’s transition to a fully-fledged island resort.

“For many, a dream getaway begins and ends at the beach, and even business travellers often pack a swimsuit just in case they can steal away for a few hours in the sun. I’m very excited to bring this idyllic vision to life – in luxurious Four Seasons’ style.”

Beach lovers can look forward to the attentive service of Four Seasons’ staff on hand to offer everything from fresh fruit skewers and refreshing beverages to an array of high-end sun care products and a chair-side sunglasses cleaning and repair service. Guests can also choose from a delicious lunch and snack menu, with food served directly on the beach. After dark, the new outdoor space will transform into a vibrant venue hosting torch-lit events, and it is also available for group bookings.

To encourage visitors to enjoy the new facility, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is giving guests an extra

reason to celebrate the summer, with a special Family Package. Guests who book a suite for three or more nights will receive 50 per cent savings on the rates for a connecting room. Premium high-speed internet access and a round-trip transfer by water taxi for two adults and two children per night are included.

There are also lots of other great offers, including the Bahrain Getaway package, which offers a 20 per cent saving on stays of two or more nights.

Since launching in March 2015, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay has become a popular getaway for both business and leisure guests, owing to its striking design and extensive range of amenities, including restaurants by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, a tranquil spa, an expansive outdoor pool set amid lush landscaping and the glittering backdrop of the Manama skyline as well as easy access to the island’s newest shopping destination.

Call 17 115-000.

October 2018 91

marketplace MIDDLE EAST GROUP OF HOSPITALS AND MEDICAL CENTERS

Raising Awareness and Care

October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Middle East Hospital has special screening packages for women of all ages.

Worldwide, breast cancer is the most common type in women and the second highest in terms of mortality rates. Men can also develop breast cancer, although incidences are rare. About 90 per cent of all breast cancer cases start in the tissue of the milk ducts or in the lobules that supply milk to the ducts. It’s possible to diagnose breast cancer at an early stage, which greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Risk Factors • Age: Women who are over the age of 50 are at greater risk.

• Family and personal history of breast and ovarian cancer: The risk of developing breast cancer is higher if there is a history of it in the family. Patients who have previously been diagnosed with breast cancer in one breast are more likely to develop the cancer in the other breast. Since ovarian cancer is associated with hormone use, a history of ovarian cancer increases the risk of breast cancer, too.

• BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations: These gene mutations are associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

• Exposure to the hormone oestrogen: The female sex hormone oestrogen induces female characteristics, extended exposure to which can increase the risk of breast cancer.

• Lifestyle factors: Obesity, lack of exercise, drinking alcohol and exposure to high radiation.

Symptoms In some cases, women with breast cancer may have no symptoms, and some abnormalities they experience may not be cancerous.

However, it is important to seek medical attention when the following symptoms appear: • Lump or thickening in the breast or armpit • Nipple becoming dimpled, discharge from 92 October 2018

the nipple, or an ulcer on the nipple • Red rash on the breast, with the appearance of orange peel • Breast pain Breast Cancer Screening These following procedures, which also increase the chances of successful treatment, can be performed for the early detection of breast cancer: • Self-examination • Mammogram: Recommended for women aged 40 and older every one to two years • Ultrasound and MRI: If a mammogram examination shows an abnormality, ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Diagnosis A diagnosis is performed when an abnormal lump is found (from self-examination or X-ray) or a tiny speck of calcium is seen (on an X-ray).

After a suspicious lump is discovered, the doctor will diagnose whether it’s cancerous and if it has spread to other parts of the body.

The most accurate method of diagnosis is a biopsy. However, if that’s not possible, the doctor will use an alternative test.

The method of cancer diagnosis varies depending on several factors, such as age, current medications, type of cancer, severity of symptoms and earlier test results. Diagnosis can be performed in the following ways: • Diagnostic radiology • Diagnostic mammography • Ultrasound • MRI • Biopsy • Surgical pathology • Blood test • Additional tests • Chest X-ray • Bone scan • CT scan to generate 3D images of the organs to check for the spread of cancer

Treatment Treatment requires a multidisciplinary team of physicians, including surgeons, radiologists and cancer specialists, who together make the most suitable treatment plan for each individual patient. The doctors will make their decision based on the following factors: • Size, location and characteristics of the cancer cells • Stage and spread of the disease • Age and health of the patient • Hormone receptors • Pre- or post-menopause • Factors indicating disease severity, such as the HER2 gene Treatment Options • Surgery • Radiotherapy • Chemotherapy • Hormonal therapy • Targeted therapy Taking place annually throughout the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month aims to raise awareness about the disease and funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.

Middle East Hospital has customised special breast cancer screening packages for women below and above 40 years.

Call Middle East Hospital – Segaya on 17 362-233 or follow Instagram @mehgroup. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

A Fabulous Facelift

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa welcomes guests to experience its elegant makeover.

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa has opened its doors to loyal patrons and new clientele after the completion of extensive renovations that give the property a fresh new look and feel.

Guests will be greeted by a warm and inviting open floor plan where the front desk and lobby seating area merge in a single large space. The five-star establishment offers a choice of 367 newly renovated guest rooms and suites, designed for ultimate comfort in one- to three-bedroom configurations. The rooms provide guests with panoramic views of vibrant Manama, and each category is well-furnished and serviced for discerning business and leisure travellers, as well as residents who appreciate fine amenities.

All residing guests have easy access to the stunning swimming pool, play areas for

children, health club and the beautifully manicured and landscaped gardens. With a range of food and drink options, customers have international restaurants and bars at their fingertips.

“This innovation has created a unique brand of hospitality,” says general manager Kosta Kourotsidis. “We are the Kingdom’s premier hotel, strategically located close to the major businesses in the commercial district, in the

heart of Manama. As part of our efforts in further strengthening our position in the hospitality sector, this renovation aims to boost our authenticity in offering modern hospitality in a distinctive urban style to our guests. We are committed to providing the highest standard of luxury living by providing the best hospitality and care in the market.”

Call 17 531-666.

www.jfcbahrain.com

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October 2018 93

marketplace ROYAL AMBASSADOR

The Perfect Home

Royal Ambassador creates residential solutions for those who value impeccable design, superior service and the finest finishes.

A leader in real estate projects in Bahrain, Royal Ambassador aims to provide islanders with property developments that embody the true definition of quality – from high-end finishing and thoughtful floor plans to superior amenities. It is the first to provide hospitality services to residential properties, thereby offering a unique living experience to customers at desirable pricing.

The company is widely recognised as a unique value proposition, offering homeowners and tenants a sophisticated choice of design and layouts to tailor homes to suit a range of budgets in Juffair, Amwaj Islands and Seef. There are studio, one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom apartment configurations to select from. Choices extend beyond the tangibles to include views, flexible floor plans and unrivalled facilities.

Floor plans are intelligently planned to

Techno Music Night

In Sound We Trust presented Pareidolia, an electronic music event featuring Momo, Kayan and HSE at Gallery 21.

maximise light, views and functionality. The attention to detail is apparent, from the distinctive exterior and interior finishes to the custom fixtures and furnishings in the apartments, the welcoming arrival areas, and shared social spaces. All this ensures that these homes are appreciated by generations to come.

In Juffair, Royal Ambassador has made its mark with the luxurious Fontana properties.

Rentals in these high-rises start at just BD385.

There are nine types of themes and apartment types available to suit every need and budget.

Rana Isa, a happy resident of one of the Fontana projects says: “My residence is ideal for those with a stylish way of life. We enjoy many amenities, including beautiful landscaping, cascading waterfalls, health clubs, multipurpose halls, mini cinemas, kids’ play areas, salons and a laundry. It is a joy living in such a beautiful and central location that suits our family’s lifestyle perfectly.”

Call 16 000-061.

To view more images, scan the QR code Joanna & Irina

Chafik & Zaki

Esmail & Mina

Noor & Ali

Sara & Fadoua

Anna & Nikita

Momo

Iefke & Tawney

Saad & Mohammed

94 October 2018

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marketplace

Subathra Jeyaram

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Reducing the Stigma of Mental Health Chartered psychologist and psycho-oncologist, Subathra Jeyaram, writes that one in five workers experience a mental health condition.

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Depression and anxiety disorders are common mental disorders that have an impact on our ability to work, and to work productively. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has predicted that, by the year 2020, depression will be the second most frequent cause of disability worldwide, second only to ischaemic heart disease.

Globally, more than 300 million people suffer from depression, the leading cause of disability. More than 260 million are living with anxiety disorders.

Many of these people live with both. A recent WHOled study estimates that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy USD1 trillion each year in lost productivity!

It is estimated that around 70 per cent of people with depression are in the workforce. Adults spend a large proportion of their time at work and, thus, workplace experience is an important determinant of overall well-being.

The largest indirect cost of mental illness comes in the form of decreased performance due to absenteeism, or regularly missing work, and presenteeism, or working while sick. Employees working with untreated illnesses cost employers USD1,601 per person each year. Employees who meet the criteria for depression but are not receiving treatment are estimated to utilise two to four times the health resources of their peers.

Thus, the workplace is the most important place to discuss mental health issues and illnesses.

Employers have an excellent opportunity to change the climate of stigma around mental health.

Employers who put in place workplace initiatives to promote mental health and to support employees who have mental disorders see gains not only in the health of their employees but also in their morale, productivity at work and talent retention.

Ways in which employers can promote the mental health of employees: • Awareness and prevention – include mental health in the overall corporate wellness package. Regularly conduct lectures, talks on mental health topics by professionals and include mental health in annual health screening.

• Sensitisation – sensitise management and HR to identify and address employees in need of assistance and evaluation. Create a network of appropriate professional information and referral resources for employees in need.

• Work-life balance – compounding stress from the never-ending workday is damaging and can damage relationships, health and overall happiness. Efforts to create a balance by promoting on-the-job training, mentorship, work flexibility to accommodate family and relationship demands, et cetera, can go a long way in reducing work-related stress.

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – this is a unique programme where a limited number of consultations with a mental health professional are offered to the employee by the employer. It is an intervention programme that serves to identify and help employees with resolving any number of personal, financial, emotional, marital or substance abuse issues that they may face by speaking to a professional. Companies with an EAP have 21 per cent lower absenteeism and 14 per cent higher productivity.

Call 17 812-222 or email subathraj@bsh.com.bh October 2018 95

marketplace AL DANA NURSERY

Excellent Early Learning

Al Dana Nursery sets the right educational foundation for toddlers by mixing learning with fun.

Al Dana Nursery in Gufool opened in 1996 with 10 students. Today, it welcomes around 100 children between the ages of one and a half and three years into its cheerful premises.

All teachers are qualified in early child care and impart a programme that focuses on various areas of development, including cognitive, listening and speaking abilities. It hones fine and gross motor skills, as well as social, emotional, creative, imaginative, artistic and other proficiencies in toddlers. Students engage in activities that develop hand muscles, hand-eye coordination and observational competencies. Visual discrimination, counting and sorting skills are also developed. They are taught the English language with a strong vocabulary, mathematical skills and awareness of the environment. They master the correct grip on the pencil through pre-writing activities. Pre-

kindergarten activities help to prepare children for the demands of reading and writing at the next level. The learning system helps them to progress from the simple to the complex in an enjoyable manner. Learning and obtaining good habits and moral values at an early age is given equal importance to all other skills.

Preschoolers enjoy arts and crafts, including painting, fingerprinting, sponge printing, colouring, collage work, indoor and outdoor

play, as well as singing. Theme days enable parents to participate in the learning process and entertainment trips are organised to give the little ones a change from the daily routine.

Al Dana Nursery is an ideal and wellbalanced springboard to primary education and this is proven when parents, themselves, recommend the institution to family and friends.

Call 17 253-541.

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marketplacebusinessbites

New Head for Brit School Inspired, which operates the British School of Bahrain, has announced the commencement of Jeff Smith’s tenure in the new post of overall executive head of the school and head of senior school.

Jeff has enormous British and international leadership experience, which is further enhanced by a Master’s degree in International Education. He was previously the director and CEO of Deira International School in Dubai. He joined the teaching profession in the UK as a physics graduate, soon becoming an overall head of science and then a deputy head. He moved overseas to Indonesia for his first headship, from 2003-2006, at the British International School in Jakarta, which has 1,100 students, returning to the UK to lead Guernsey Grammar School for 11-18 year olds, with 1,200 students, until moving to Dubai in January 2012.

Hospitality Scholarships Announced In collaboration with Tamkeen and the private sector, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) CEO, HE Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, announced 25 scholarships for students who are interested in enrolling at the new Vatel Hotel and Tourism Business School, which has just recently opened.

“By providing these scholarships, the BTEA aims to offer academic and professional opportunities to the national workforce in the hospitality and tourism sector. Students who enrol in the school via the website (Vatel.bh) may benefit from the scholarships and will be matched with jobs that meet their academic qualifications,” says Shaikh Khaled.

Telecoms Award Telecommunications service provider, VIVA Bahrain, took home the distinguished Best Enterprise Service award at the Telecoms World Middle East (TWME) Awards 2018 held in Dubai. It was presented in recognition of the company’s contribution to the Kingdom’s enterprise segment with its comprehensive range of ICT Cloud Services.

CEO Ulaiyan Al Wetaid says: “We are honoured. As the fastest-growing, most innovative telecommunication operator in Bahrain, we place innovation and digital transformation at the heart of everything we do and have taken great steps towards better serving our customers and helping Bahrain’s ICT environment thrive.”

The award comes on the back of several others presented to the company at TWME over recent years, including Best Digital Service, 2016, and Best Brand and Best Growth Strategy, 2013.

Kingdom’s Exports Grow Exports of goods originating in the Kingdom increased by one per cent in August to BD184 million, according to a report from the Information and eGovernment Authority.

Taking in goods worth BD40 million, Saudi Arabia was the number one importer of Bahraini products followed by the UAE and Oman.

Agglomerated iron ores and concentrates were the top export products, with a value of BD30 million, followed by aluminium wires, at BD25 million and unwrought aluminium, at BD18 million.

The report revealed that the value of re-exports faced a sharp drop of 26 per cent during August to BD33 million.

Four-wheel drive vehicles were the product most re-exported from Bahrain with a value of BD8 millio, cigarettes were second, netting BD3 million, aircraft parts came in third place with BD2 million. www.bahrainthismonth.com

October 2018 97

marketplacebusinessbites

Bids Sought for Medical City The Arabian Gulf University (AGU) has invited leading construction companies to submit their bids for constructing and building King Abdullah Medical City.

The project, paid for through a SR1 billion grant from the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, will be built on a one million square metre plot of land donated by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Once operational, the facility will boast 300 beds and a full range of outpatient clinics, in addition to 15 operating rooms and quality support medical services such as advanced laboratories and a pharmacy.

AGU president, Dr Khaled bin Abdulrahman Al Ohaly, said the selection process for the construction companies will be carried out according to several criteria, most notably their previous experience.

New Boss for Bahrain UN Centre United Nations Secretary General António Guterres has appointed Samir Aldarabi as director of the United Nations Information Centre for Gulf Countries, located in Manama.

He was previously acting director, leading the strategic communications and building understanding and support for the aims and goals of the United Nations in Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates since June 2015.

From 2002 to 2015, Samir Aldarabi held progressively responsible public information positions across the United Nations Secretariat. He served as director of the UN Information Centre in Sana’a from 2010 to 2015, where he joined the UN Special Political Mission for Yemen. He was also the national deputy director of Radio Miraya with the UN Mission in Sudan from 2009 to 2010 and worked as a radio producer at UNHQ from 2002 to 2009.

98 October 2018

Easing Philippines Cash Transfers In a bid to offer the best service to its Filipino customers in Bahrain, Travelex, the foreign exchange specialist, has partnered with authorised Philippinesbased remittance agency iREMIT, giving customers the ease to send and receive money seamlessly between the two countries. The new service will be accessible at all 25 branches across the Kingdom. iREMIT is a name that is very well

known amongst overseas Filipino workers as a secure and trusted means of transferring money effectively and efficiently to the Philippines through its network of 21,000 cash pick locations, as well as credit to any bank in the Philippines.

The agreement comes as part of iREMIT’s efforts to intensify strategic marketing alliances and initiatives in countries with a high density of Filipinos.

Banking Internship Programme Agreed Bahrain-based fintech solutions provider, Waqfe, recently signed a collaboration agreement with the Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB), which will enable 40 talented Bahrainis to acquire skills in the financial services industry through a structured internship programme.

The programme offers unique career acceleration opportunities, such as internships, scholarships, vocational training and job placements. It is supported by a growing network of corporates from Bahrain and the MENA region and the agreement with BAB

lends further credence to the rising popularity of the initiative.

Through the internship placements with BAB, young Bahrainis will benefit from reallife work experiences that will give them the chance to develop their professional skills and competencies, which in turn will assist them in future career development.

Fatima Al Alawi, the chief business officer of Waqfe, and Dr Waheed Al-Qassim, the CEO of Bahrain Association of Banks signed the agreement in the presence of Osama Al Khajah, the board advisor of Waqfe.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylewhat'snew

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Stay Connected The new Samsung Galaxy Watch features long-lasting battery life, wellness capabilities and a timeless and personalised design. It helps users accomplish more with new stress and sleep monitoring capabilities, and offers a more robust line-up of style options, including three new watch faces in silver, midnight black and rose gold, and new customisable watch band colours.

Available at leading retailers and Samsung brand stores.

Mysterious Scents This year marks the start of the 20th anniversary of HALLOWEEN Perfumes and the arrival into the world of ultra violet, a provocative tone blending perfectly with the values of the brand: magic, mystery and young spirit.

HALLOWEEN MAN Beware of Yourself is an addictive masculine fragrance that clings like a second skin. The women’s fragrance, Mia Me Mine, evokes an intimate and mysterious fantasy.

Available at all Al Hawaj outlets.

Monochrome Madness Just apt for the change in weather, MICHAEL Michael Kors pays tribute to tweed with a luxe option that is versatile enough for every day or an evening out. The new pieces are designed in smooth leather with a textural black-andwhite tweed front.

Available at Michael Kors, City Centre Bahrain.

Almost au Naturel

The Perfect Gift Enjoy the craftsmanship and bespoke luxury of Montblanc. Choose from an exquisite selection of high-quality products, from the finest timepieces to handcrafted leather goods and unique accessories. Each piece perfectly combines elegance and functionality to emphasise its owner’s refined taste and sense of style.

Available at Montblanc, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Experience ultimate skin comfort with long-lasting, luminous hold, as Giorgio Armani beauty introduces a complete NEO NUDE range for skin, cheeks and lips, with the promise of a perfection that looks real. A masterclass in nude beauty, it delivers a flawless complexion and everything a woman needs to feel confident.

Available at leading retailers.

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lifestylegadgets BTM brings you the trendiest tech and greatest gizmos in its latest batch of cool gadgets.

Sonic Screwdriver Programmable TV Remote This advanced infrared remote from Doctor Who learns control codes from virtually any normal remote controller. Using simple movements, you can use this gadget to control your devices. Rotate clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the volume on your stereo, gesture the Sonic Screwdriver up or down to change TV channels. With three memory banks and 13 gestures, you can store up to 39 remote control codes.

Recommended use for ages 14 plus.

Available at www.amazon.com

Star Trek Wireless Vulcan Earbuds

8Bitdo DPad USB Hub This gadget includes a DPad-shaped USB hub and microUSB cable, three ports, with a maximum transfer speed of 480 Mbps. The directional arrows light up when a device is connected, showcasing the flow of power.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

This gadget is colour-matched to Spock’s Vulcan skin tone, set with an in-line microphone and one-click button for multi-use: answering calls, adjusting volume, controlling music.

Includes earphone, three sets of silicone ear tips, and USB charging cable. Compatible with Bluetoothrunning devices.

Available at www.thinkgeek.co.uk

Christmas Story Leg Lamp String Lights

NES Cube Speaker

Just like any normal string of holiday lights, except each bulb is covered with a replica of the major award that Mr Parker from A Christmas Story wins. Includes 10-foot light string, 10 legs per string with real fabric fringe on the lampshades, four replacement incandescent bulbs and one fuse. Intended for indoor and outdoor use.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

Rock out with this NES-inspired retro cube speaker. With its directional pad-styled controls on the top you’re sure to show off your geek style. Left and right control the volume while up and down control power and play/pause functionality. Additionally, it has an eight-hour battery life so you can blast music all day.

Available at www.amazon.com

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lifestylegadgets

Apple Watch Series 4 The Apple Watch Series 4 is the first major design overhaul of the timepiece since its debut. The watch’s screen now goes nearly edge to edge, thanks to a larger display with rounded edges. There are also two new sizes, 40mm and 44mm, and the larger display, which is 30 per cent bigger, lets the watchOS 5 show more information through Apple’s built-in app complications. Apple is also overhauling the hardware inside its Apple Watch, including a new built-in EKG scanner. Additionally, Apple is using a new dual-core 64-bit S4 processor, custom designed by the company’s silicon team to improve performance.

Available at leading retailers.

The Keyboard Waffle Iron Why serve boring old waffles when you can have a geeky keyboard-shaped waffle? Just throw the keyboard waffle iron on a stovetop or oven and you’ll have a nerdy breakfast in no time.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

The Laundry Lasso

Keychain iPhone Charger It’s always a pain to have a low battery on your iPhone, especially in case of an emergency. This keychain lightning charger comes with a plug, so you’ll be able to charge anywhere with an outlet.

Great for the traveller on the go who always needs their phone.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

Keep your laundry room mildew free with the Laundry Lasso. Keeping your washer door propped open is a no brainer but can be annoying with it flopping around, the laundry lasso takes hold of your washer’s door to get it slightly cracked.

That way you never have to worry about having a mouldy washing machine.

Available at www.amazon.com

Star Trek Phaser Remote Replica Recreated from 3D laser scans, this gadget is a full-functioning programmable remote control in which you can store up to 36 gestures. It includes the Phaser I, which functions as a standalone gesture-based universal remote control, and also slots into its Phaser II pistol-grip base. It has built-in lithium polymer batteries that are recharged using the included USB cable, and comes with a specially designed protective case with hidden magnet.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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lifestylemusic

Eminem – Kamikaze What’s the story?

Kamikaze is the 10th studio album by American rapper Eminem. Previously unannounced, the album was released overnight and features guest appearances from Joyner Lucas, Royce da 5’9”, Jessie Reyez, and uncredited vocals by Justin Vernon. Eminem, credited as Slim Shady, and Dr Dre served as executive producers, while production for individual tracks comes from a variety of musicians. The album has generated some controversy for use of homophobic slurs and diss tracks; but, despite this, Eminem has become the artist with the most chart-topping albums in the United Kingdom.

Worth a listen?

Eminem finds comfort in the past, relying on familiar themes while he celebrates the days that are gone. Coming after Revival, the 2017 album where he grappled with questions of mortality along with the moral rot of the Trump era, the retreat to spitting insults and reflexive anger is a bit of a disappointment, particularly because Kamikaze isn’t quite the jolt it was intended to be. Kamikaze often feels like an extended exercise in Eminem hitting his marks. As sheer performance, Eminem’s vocals remain a thing of wonder, which is why

Verdict: Another off-focus misstep from the rap legend. it’s so dispiriting to hear him circling the drain, relying on old tricks instead of expanding his worldview. He has the musical skills to mature; he’s just refusing to let himself act his age.

Shorts

Paul Simon – In the Blue Light

Spiritualised – And Nothing Hurt

Adult. – This Behavior

Working with a diverse set of collaborators, including Bill Frisell, Wynton Marsalis and Bryce Dessner of the National, Simon winds up with an elastic, elegant album that plays with jazz and chamber music as much as it does folk and worldbeat. Everything on In the Blue Light is deliberate, gentle and subtle, placing as much emphasis on the words and melody as the instrumentation.

The album is instantly recognisable for its trademark Spiritualised meld of garage rock, pillowy psychedelia, gospel, R&B, and blues via guitars, strings, horns, keyboards, and a stellar backing chorus in intimate, vulnerable, confessional songs. In full, And Nothing Hurt stands alongside the very best outings on the Spiritualised shelf.

Its finest moments are consequently its most tender, revealing how much the band’s writing has progressed.

At once stark and suffocating, the album boasts some of the most unhinged sounds and textures the band have ever produced, whether it’s the klaxon-like tones or writhing arpeggios and whip-cracking beats. This Behavior’s themes are just as archetypal as its music, capturing the disconnection, disorientation, and alienation that define the duo’s work so well that it’s almost comforting instead of unsettling. The album’s moods and sounds flow so seamlessly that it feels like it could be a mix or a DJ set, even when the bottom falls out and provides a glimpse into the void on the finale.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylegames

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age Verdict: A gorgeous RPG made with true love and care.

Rating:

What is it?

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age is the 11th instalment of the main Dragon Quest RPG game series. The game has a 16-year-old protagonist who grew up in a serene, quiet town. When he participates in the village’s coming-of-age ceremony, he discovers that he is the reincarnation of a hero who once saved the world, and is burdened with a great mission. He sets off across the world of Lotozetasia, where he’s joined by allies, including a child prodigy, a rude thief and an entertainer.

Gameplay

Dragon Quest XI battles prove that turn-based battles can be absolutely nail-biting. Combat is snappy, tactically satisfying and full of surprises. The vast menagerie of monsters presents unique challenges in every fight, and it’s fun to eagerly rush towards new types of enemies just to see what new twists they throw your way.

Boss battles are particularly tense and the tactical advantage balances on a knife-edge.

Destiny 2: Forsaken

Destiny 2: Forsaken is the third major expansion for the hit shooter sequel. Take justice into your own hands as you venture into a new frontier filled with enemies, allies, untold mysteries and treasures waiting to be uncovered. Forsaken also features an all-new competitive and collaborative endgame activity, called Gambit.

This is a new, hybrid 4v4 mode that merges both player vs environment and player vs player experiences into an epic battle. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Graphics

Every enemy is lavishly depicted in the open world, and the monsters spring to life with gorgeously fluid animations. Dragon Quest XI is really just one vast, beautiful treasure-stuffed dungeon stretching off near-endlessly in every direction, all set against a stirring orchestral backdrop.

Donut County

Who is devouring Donut County? It’s you!

Play as a mysterious growing hole in this physics adventure game. Every time you swallow something, the hole grows a little bit bigger. Play with the characters and objects (all driven by physics) to devour everything in the scene, combine objects for surprising effects, and solve puzzles by launching objects back out!

NBA 2K19

NBA 2K celebrates 20 years of redefining what sports gaming can be, from best-inclass graphics and gameplay to groundbreaking game modes and an immersive open-world ‘Neighborhood’. NBA 2K19 promises to push limits as it brings gaming one step closer to real-life basketball excitement and culture.

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lifestylewebsites

VERDICT: A thoughtprovoking way to pass the time.

Steve

Site: www.brainpickings.org Rating:

Welcome Back Party

What is it?

The Dilmun Club held a welcome back party at its premises.

Paul Taylor as Freddie Mercury

Louise & Tracey

Boredom doesn’t mean you should distract yourself with the simplest and most mind-numbing content out there on the web. Try expanding your knowledge by diving deep into the incredibly useful and thoughtprovoking blog posts on Brain Pickings, which is a popular blog run by MIT fellow Maria Popova. She’s the one who does all the research and writing for each post.

The Good

Jo, Siobhan & Kev

Cheryl & Lizzie

You can probably expect to find a few good books to add to your reading list just by subscribing to this blog. The articles are provocative, interesting and designed to make you think rather than shovel through endless memes and meaningless content on social media.

The Bad

Popova’s updates seem to be very sporadic. Sometimes there will be new content every day, whereas other times you may be waiting a week. Therefore, setting aside time to read the site in a routine manner is ill-advised.

www.hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com

Dawn & Bob

John & Koko

Janet, Sophie,x Emily & Anis

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Mike & Siobhan

Maria & Simona

Jude x

Hyperbole and a Half is a blog created by Allie Brosh, a young woman with a talent for telling her life story through detailed Microsoft Paint drawings. She says her blog is not really a web comic, but it’s not really a blog either.

Whatever it is, it’s a wonderfully colourful and comedic site to browse through. If you love

whimsical drawings of dogs, rainbows and other things, then you’re bound to really fall in love with this one.

www.laughingsquid.com

Laughing Squid is an interesting blog to check out all the wacky, inspiring and unbelievable stuff

you can find there. You can find all sorts of highly visual posts about art, culture and technology on this site, most of which are photos and videos.

It’s updated with several new posts a day featuring the newest, freshest content. Posts are kept pretty short, too, making it perfect for browsing casually. www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyleapps

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

App: Animatix Rating: Verdict: One of the most innovative ways to edit your photos.

What is it?

Built to ‘set your photos in motion,’ Animatix lets you make the perfect .gif, video or Live Photo by animating your shots with 24 different animation styles and a whole slew of cartoon, comic, sketch and art effects.

The Good

Unlike other apps in the space, Animatix can help you produce cool, artistic pieces in a variety of different styles that don’t have to feel cartoony – unless you want them to. It has an easy-to-use frame editor and many options to share on social media or with friends.

The Bad

The app comes with a solid feature set for a new release, but could be

App: Mei

Mei is the world’s first mobile messaging app that comes with an optional AI assistant designed to improve your relationships. Mei represents the next generation of messaging where AI gives you realtime intelligence as you chat.

Even without turning on the AI assistant, texters who switch to Mei will gain features like data messaging (that means free international chats), end-to-end encryption, and private chats still unavailable in many stock texting apps.

On top of this, Mei gives users all the choice they deserve over their data and privacy by incorporating all the features you’d expect in a messaging app, cutting-edge AI and NLP technology, and user control over every feature. www.bahrainthismonth.com

made even better with the ability to mask parts of the shot so they don’t move. That way you could keep the subject of your portrait in focus but make the background swirl and ooze dramatically.

App: Nanoloop

While you reminisce about those old, great video games with fantastic chiptunes, you could spend those in-between moments of your day to make your own music. That’s where Nanoloop comes in. Pick what instruments you want in your composition then lay out the notes. A learning curve is involved, but once you get the hang of it, the app’s limitation is only your imagination.

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lifestylemovies

The Equaliser 2 Film: The Equaliser 2 Rating:

VERDICT:

Directed By: Antoine Fuqua Starring: Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal,

A decent action thriller.

Ashton Sanders

The Plot

Denzel Washington resumes his role as Robert McCall: a retired CIA Black Ops operative who works as a security guard and moonlights as a vigilante. When his long-time friend Susan Plummer (Melissa Leo) is murdered, he embarks on a relentless, globe-trotting quest for vengeance.

Worth Watching?

The Equaliser 2 contains some wonderful selfcontained moments from McCall in both an action fight capacity and in a civic-minded activist capacity. As a film, however, it runs roughshod through its motions. For all its great fights, excellent acting from Washington, and tone of general righteousness, it feels largely flimsy.

The plot is unfocused, and characters go missing for great spans

Venom

Venom is intended to be the first film in Sony’s Marvel Universe, adjunct to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), and stars Tom Hardy as journalist Eddie Brock.

Following a scandal, Brock attempts to revive his career by investigating the Life Foundation, but comes into contact with an alien symbiote that bonds with Brock, giving him superpowers as long as they share the same body.

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of the film’s overstuffed two-hour running time. It features notable deaths and aggressively brutal violence, but the film’s action is haphazardly delivered at random points throughout its narrative; that is to say when it should be ramping up, it typically stops for an extended breath.

Halloween

Halloween is the 11th instalment in the Halloween franchise, and is a direct sequel to the 1978 film of the same name, while retconning the continuity of the previous sequels.

Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) comes to her final confrontation with Michael Myers (Nick Castle), the masked figure who has haunted her since she narrowly escaped his killing spree on Halloween night four decades ago.

Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween

In the small town of Wardenclyffe on Halloween night, two boys named Sonny (Jeremy Ray Taylor) and Sam (Caleel Harris) find a manuscript in an abandoned house that was previously owned by RL Stine called ‘Haunted Halloween’. When they open it, they release Slappy (Avery Lee Jones) who plans to create his own family, with the help of his Halloween monster allies. Now Sonny and Sam, alongside Sonny’s sister, Sarah (Madison Iseman), must work to thwart Slappy’s plot before all is lost. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Movie Mania

lifestylefilmreleases

From thrillers to dramas, October has a host of new releases to indulge in.

Suzanne Nicholas brings you the top picks of the month – check them out!

The Oath

Genre: Action, Comedy, Thriller Release Date: October 12 Chris (Ike Barinholtz) and Kai (Tiffany Haddish) choose not to sign a mandatory loyalty oath to the President. Thanksgiving dinner with Chris and Kai’s family becomes a stressful affair when heated political discussions get uncomfortable, on top of which, two government officials make an unannounced visit to their home.

Serenity

Genre: Drama, Thriller Release Date: October 19 Matthew McConaughey’s character, Baker Dill, lives a tranquil life that is disturbed when his ex-wife, Karen (Anne Hathaway), comes to him desperately seeking help to save their son from her new violent husband. The events that unfold wreak havoc on Dill’s moral compass, as he is forced to do things he doesn’t want to, thrust back into a life he had left behind.

First Man

Genre: Biography, Drama, History Release Date: October 12 In this biographical drama, Ryan Gosling brings to life Neil Armstrong’s spectacular space mission that made him the first man to make it to the moon. Based on the book First Man: The Life of Neil A. Armstrong, the film follows the years leading up to the legendary event.

What They Had

Genre: Drama Release Date: October 19 What they Had is a family story of a mother with Alzheimer’s, a son who believes she should be put into a care facility, a father who disagrees wholeheartedly, and a daughter who gets caught right in the middle of this domestic conflict.

Beautiful Boy

Genre: Biography, Drama Release Date: October 12 Felix Van Groeningen’s first English feature debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, receiving rave reviews from critics. Based on a father and son’s set of memoirs, the film tells the heart-wrenching tale of a family’s trials on the long road to recovery from addiction.

Indivisible

Genre: Drama, War Release Date: October 26 Based on the true story of Army chaplain Darren Turner and his wife, Heather, this story follows the harsh realities of war on families.

When Darren is deployed to Iraq, Heather has to single-handedly take care of her three children.

Struggling to stay connected, will their marriage survive the toll war takes on them?

Bad Times at the El Royale

Genre: Mystery, Thriller Release Date: October 12 This upcoming thriller revolves around seven strangers staying at a dodgy motel, each with their own dark secret, and a wish to redeem themselves. Directed by Drew Goddard, the film’s stellar cast includes Jon Hamm, Chris Hemsworth and Dakota Johnson, and film enthusiasts cannot wait for its release.

Hunter Killer

Genre: Action, Thriller Release Date: October 26 Assembling an elite group of Navy SEALs, US submarine captain Joe Glass attempts to save the kidnapped Russian president, and thereby the world order. Starring Gerard Butler, this naval warfare film is guaranteed to be every bit as thrilling and action-packed as have been all Gerard Butler action films in the past.

All release dates shown here are for the US. Keep a lookout for Bahrain showings. www.bahrainthismonth.com

October 2018 107

lifestyletravel Clockwise from left: A colourfully decorated float at the Dia de los Muertos parade; Tortas sold at a street shop; Angel of Independence; Candle and marigold altars — a local tradition; Mexican handicraft at local market; Gaily decorated skulls available in souvenir shops

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lifestyletravel

Mexico City Calling With the festive holiday, Dia de los Muertos, coming up, what better time to travel to this cultural hub in Mexico?

Built on the ruins of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, Mexico City offers a host of cultural, historical and modern tourist sites, scattered across the vast city. With so many affordable things to do, delicacies to try and sights to see, Mexico City is truly a memorable experience for the enthusiastic traveller.

Located in the Valley of Mexico, in the centre of the country, the city invites tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture. Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, is a celebration of the lives of those who have passed. Coco, the marvelous Pixar animation with Dia de los Muertos at its core, gives a pretty good idea of the festivities you can expect.

Steeped in traditions, tourists can experience two days of celebrations (November 1 and 2). Usually late at night, the main square, Zocalo, is a sight to behold with clusters of traditional shrines featuring candles and signature marigolds. Also packed with mariachi bands and people dressed up in scary costumes with skull-painted faces, the vibrancy of the festival is one of its kind, as the locals commemorate their dead. Since 2016, visitors have also been given a chance to join the locals who gather on the sidewalks in anticipation of the annual parade, complete with colourful floats, dancers in beautiful costumes and a lively atmosphere, overall.

Once you’ve enjoyed the two days, give the city a wander. Visit Museo Frida Kahlo, house of the renowned Mexican artist, and the National Museum of History, situated inside the Chapultepec Castle that sits atop a hill, thereby having spectacular views. Marvel at The Angel of Independence, a victory monument of Mexico’s War of Independence.

Stroll through the Coyoacán and La Lagunilla markets for some inexpensive shopping, while you savour a warm torta, a crusty Mexican sandwich with loads of filling, from one of the many food trucks or stalls you’re bound to see lining the streets.

Having visited the top tourist spots, end your trip with some fun – head to the largest amusement park in Latin America, Six Flags México, located on the southern edge of the city. It’s home to hundreds of thrill rides, roller coasters and other adrenalin-pumping adventures.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Dance Night

Calexico Bahrain held a DJ dance party featuring Oscar Romp from the UK.

DJ Night

Klub 360 hosted a party featuring DJ Epps at its premises.

Fabio & Kapila

DJ Oscar Romp

DJ Epps x

Angie & Judy

Madan, Nats & Mo

Sha, Madan, VJMP3 & Alex

Ghazi, Kat & Chantal

Adam & Drake

Chip & Rick

Charlie & Haris

Recognition Day Saar Mall held a ‘Summer Internship Recognition Day’ for its trainees at its premises.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Fatima Mohammed from the Bokhowa Group with Saar Mall management and her interns

Derek, Michael & Madina

Anniversary Party Yard House Bahrain celebrated its first anniversary with a party at its premises.

The cake-cutting ceremony

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Steph, Zinni & Tariq

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander Other Events

KHK MMA awarded BRAVE 9 Belt–Souvenir to The K Hotel for its hospitality partnership during BRAVE 9 Combat Week.

Nobel Laureate and Children’s Rights Activist, HE Kailash Satyarthi, visited the Shri Krishna Temple in Manama.

AIESEC and the Rotary Club of Adliya, with the support of the UN Environment office and Lulu Hypermarket, organised an event to educate children on how to recycle plastic containers into artwork and reuse them.

IKEA held a grand opening ceremony at its premises.

The Rotary Club of Manama held a meeting at Gulf Hotel Bahrain with Mojda Banahi of Bahrain Rescues, a voluntary group of local youth who took on the responsibility of rescuing animals in need of shelter, fostering or medical attention.

Ebrahim K Kanoo announced the arrival of the all-new 2019 Lexus ES at its showroom.

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority presented the ‘Cartoon Network Live! Heroes Unite’ stage show at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

US Ambassador, HE Justin Siberell, hosted a reception in honour of Thomas Donohue, president and CEO of the US Chamber of Commerce, at his residence in Saar.

The Indian Community Relief Fund organised a farewell party for Anand Prakash, Second Secretary (Community Welfare) at the Indian Embassy.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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lifestyletarotscope

LIBRA

September 23 – October 22 If a child has been acting differently then a moment aside is advisable since you may well discover a worrying fact that leaves you shaken. You could already have your suspicions but, without confronting the matter head-on, you’re never going to know for sure. Be patient and don’t pass judgement until you are in full possession of the facts. On the work front, a planned business venture could finally kick off thanks to the encouragement of an enthusiastic friend, but make sure the path you take is one you genuinely want.

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

SCORPIO October 23 – November 21 Something has changed about your attitude to life recently and, for those closest to you, it has become a blatant and obvious transformation, whilst remaining one you refuse to accept. Regrettably, some of you have started to pursue something altogether more material – money. A gradual detachment from your emotional side has seen you invest a great deal more energy into endeavours less spiritual and some of you will suffer if you do not attempt to reinstate better values.

Card of the Month — Knight of Swords

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 Turbulent times lie ahead in the workplace for those of you born under this star sign, as your ambitious side comes to the fore and you attempt to battle with an opponent in a promotion war that looks set to dominate most of October. Put your best foot forward, keep a clear and objective head and all the advantages will fall in your favour. Just ensure that you are prepared for a rough ride, as your main rival for the vacant post is not the kind of character to give up easily.

Card of the Month — King of Swords 112 October 2018

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 19 October will see all your effort, hard work and financial outlays finally come together as a long-term project is completed to your satisfaction. Capricorns are a difficult bunch to please so you should try to enjoy the fruits of your labour without looking for a flip side.

If something bad is going to happen, then worrying about it will only make matters worse. A better appreciation of what’s good in your life will allow you to deal more effectively with the negative times.

Card of the Month — Nine of Swords

AQUARIUS January 20 – February 18 It’s your money. You earn it so you can do what you want with it. If only certain members of your family could get their heads around that concept. October may see you having to defend your actions in areas of finance for no real reason whatsoever. Be quick to realise that where your money is concerned, you have the final say – so get others to grasp that point! If there is trouble at home with a partner and their less than flattering remarks, then confront them rather than allow the matter to brew.

Card of the Month — Three of Wands

PISCES February 19 – March 20 Romance is in the air this month as the flutter of Cupid’s wings looks set to ripple the waters and reward those of you searching for love with the opportunity to embark upon a fresh, exciting relationship. If you are in a relationship there’s no need to feel left out! The signs also bode well as you develop stronger bonds within a current partner. The only note of caution goes out to the less scrupulous among you, as you might be tempted to stray without commitment.

Card of the Month — Nine of Cups

ARIES March 21 – April 19 Your sign knows the qualities required around leadership and decision-making and you will be asked to employ both of these skills in October as others turn to you for advice and direction. Whilst you may not feel completely qualified to carry out the tasks at hand, don’t doubt yourself. You are better equipped than you realise and more respected than you appreciate, so play to your strengths and you will succeed in exactly the way those around you expect you to do.

Card of the Month — Strength TAURUS April 20 – May 20 Money is the main concern for you this month but it will be more a case of managing the excess rather than the opposite – a problem many people would like to have.

Recognition of your talents at work will lead to an increased pay rise or bonus and this will set your finances up well for the coming months.

October may well see you organising improvements within the home and a trip abroad could also be on the cards. In matters of health, you may begin to feel your old self after a possible low point last month.

Card of the Month — The Moon www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyleadvertisersindex GEMINI May 21 – June 20 This month is going to see many of you get in touch with your spiritual side and this will in turn spill into other areas of your life to generally very good effect. Sometimes clarity and introspection are the best ways to achieve the results you are after.

If you have been fighting concerns at work with difficult colleagues, you will gain the advantage by careful reflection. Don’t rush into matters unprepared. Allow your opponents to show their hand first and only make your move once you have all the information at your disposal.

Card of the Month — Three of Cups

CANCER June 21 – July 22

Home & Furnishing

Motoring

Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . 57 Behbehani Brothers Co.(Porsche) . . . 3

Hotels & Serviced Residences Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 79 Elite Crystal Hotel (Klub 360) . . . . . . . 47 Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Royal Ambassador (Fontana Suites) 45

If you have been feeling that the world is against you, then this month it could all come to a head; and though others may have suggested you were being over dramatic, it may come to light that your beliefs were justified. September could be the month when a change – whatever its nature – impacts upon your life for some time to come and sets you on a completely new road. If you don’t gamble on your instincts, then you might just regret it. If you do nothing, then you can’t expect anything to change.

Card of the Month — Eight of Wands

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Starwood Hotels (Le Meridien) . . . 21,51 The Arch Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37,80

VIRGO August 23 – September 22 October is going to see you walking into an embarrassing situation. Since the matter could involve friends and a potential betrayal, you’re likely to have to make some difficult choices, some of which may see you lose a friend in the process. Think very carefully about how you deal with this situation because it will conclude with a life-changing decision and the possible loss of a relationship. No one said life was always going to be easy and this month you’ll see that first-hand!

Card of the Month — The Fool

Berlitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Intercol:IAA (Nokia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Taiwan Tourism Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

The Diplomat Radisson Blu . . . . . . . . 23

Restaurants & Cafés

The Four Seasons Hotel . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Bushido . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa . . 4

Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Zallaq Springs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

LEO July 23 – August 22 The long-term future of a relationship hangs in the balance as loyalties are spilt within your family. The chances are that finding an answer to your dilemma will take a lot of hard work and there is little point in pursuing a solution unless you are committed to the endeavour from the offset. A loved one could surprise you on the 10th so, to avoid disappointment, don’t make any plans. It might be a welcome relief to an otherwise stressful October.

Card of the Month — King of Cups

Others

Lanterns Juffair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Jewellery & Watches

Miam Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27,54

Ambassador Stores (Seiko) . . . . . . . . . 6

NUASIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Patek Philippe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

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

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 19 Middle East Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 31,63

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

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Naomi Watts

Will Smith

Catherine Zeta-Jones

FAMOUS LIBRA THIS MONTH

● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

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

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

October 2018 113

lifestylewinwin Bahrain This Month gives one lucky reader an exclusive chance to win the latest fragrance from Cartier – Carat!

To win all you have to do is correctly answer the questions.

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

1 2 3 4 5

Who got it right?

Bahrain This Month received 98 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to the winner:

Who is the Biggest Boss hip-hop star playing on the island this month? ______________________________________________

Winner : Maria Mayah Zulita

For how many years has Bahrain International Music Festival run? ______________________________________________

9 10

Ad Seek:

2. Rolling Clones

2. The Arch Hotel

3. Confluence – Where Words and Images Meet

3. Orsay

4. March 2002

Restaurant

1. Bloodshel

Where will Egyptian icon Natacha Atlas perform? ______________________________________________ What’s the date for the Think Pink Motorbike Ride? ______________________________________________

1. Rich Homie Quan/The One

5. Lanterns Lounge and Restaurant

Who’s the new chef de cuisine at Primavera, at The RitzCarlton, Bahrain? ______________________________________________

‫رفاهية‬ ‫طبيعية‬ .‫غير مكتشفة بعد‬ 7. Khaleeji cuisine

8. More than 350,000 units 9. BD1,000 cash back 10. BD22,540

‫إنها تايوان‬ Name:

______________________________________________

Address: What time did Porsche’s Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid achieve as its fastest lap record at BIC? !‫ أبهى حلة‬Telephone: ‫للطبيعة في‬ ‫إن تايوان هي عنوان‬ ______________________________________________

What is the starting price of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class, available in Bahrain exclusively at Al Haddad Motors? ______________________________________________ What engine does the new INFINITI QX50 have?

4. Show Shha Indian

6. Two Chevrolet Camaros

Luxuriant Which Michelin-starred chef has partnered with the Gulf 6 Hotel toNatural relaunch La Pergola? ______________________________________________ Undiscovered On which day is Baharat’s Seafood Night at Le Méridien 7 City Centre Bahrain?

Taiwan!

8

Last month’s solutions:

‫ كرز مزدهر‬،‫شواطئ لم يمسها أي خلل‬ Email: .‫وأودية رائعة‬

CPR: .‫ ومزاراتها التاريخية‬،‫ ومناظرها الساحلية‬،‫ كذلك شواطئها‬،‫“إن تايوان بلد جمالها أخاذ‬ ‫ ويمكنك التسوق حتى‬،‫في تايوان يمكنك استكشاف حياة حضارية سريعة ومشغولة‬ ”.‫ وتناول مأكوالت مذهلة أو االسترخاء في الينابيع الطبيعية الحارة‬،‫التعب‬

EXPERIENCE ICONIC URBAN LIVING STARTING FROM

385

Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

AD Seek

BHD

1600-0061

3838 | 3840 This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

All9256 you have to 5933 WWW.ROYALAMBASSADORBH.COM do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

1.

Taiwan is nature at its best!

Unspoiled beaches, cherry blossoms and stunning valleys...

2.

“Taiwan is an astounding country of beauty, culture, beaches, coastal scenery, historic shrines where you can explore buzzing urban city life, shop till you drop, eat amazing food or relax in natural hot springs”

3.

114 October 2018

Eastbound tourism LLC

4. www.bahrainthismonth.com