Bahrain This Month - September 2018

ADLIYA DINING - MOTORING - MOVIE MANIA

Since 1997

September 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 9

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

INTERVIEWS HE THANIS NA SONGKHLA

21ST ANNIVERSARY ISSUE!

Thai Ambassador

MIND OVER MATTER

Hemant Joshi

Bahrain’s First and Favourite Monthly Publication Turns 21!

MUSICAL MEDIC

Dr Hazem Al Rawas

HAPPENINGS Al Sawari Theatre Festival Lebanese Megastar Adam Live in Concert!

DJ Redoxx in Town Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

BOOK A LUXURY ROOM WITH SEA VIEW INCLUSIVE OF LAVISH BUFFET BREAKFAST & DINNER FOR TWO Complimentary breakfast and dinner for children below 12 years old, up to 2 per room.

For reservations, please call us at +973 17 63 63 63 Terms & conditions apply.

105 Zallaq Highway, Building 2015, Block 1055, Zallaq area, P.O. Box 5554 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel.: +973 17 63 63 63 - Fax.: +973 17 63 63 64 - Email: h6722@sofitel.com - Website: www. sofitel.com/6722

Issue 253

Contents September 2018 COVER STORY 51-61 21 Years of BTM

A special anniversary feature marking a milestone for BTM, Bahrain’s first and favourite monthly English language magazine.

HAPPENINGS

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

51

17

All the Island’s a Stage

18

Stamp Seals Revealed

The 12th Al Sawari International Youth Theatre Festival features 10 plays.

An exhibition showcasing an exceptional selection of Dilmun seals.

20

Old Skool Fun

Catch DJ Aldo Vanucci spinning the decks at Calexico.

22 International

Spinner

Enjoy DJ Eliza May at Club Liv. 24 Latin

Meets Jazz

A seven-piece Colombian-Bahraini band, Cobao, takes to the stage at Coda.

18

24

26 Adam

Live in Concert!

Lebanese megastar Adam will perform his iconic hits live at Sofitel Bahrain.

28 Sounds

of Europe

Miami Events Bahrain hosts DJ Redoxx at Coral Bay. 30 Take

to the Water

Don’t miss this year’s Autumn Dragon Boat Race.

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

31

30

31

INTERVIEWS Ever Closer Ties

New Thai Ambassador HE Thanis Na Songkhla talks about plans for incresed bilateral cooperation.

32

The Wind Beneath Their Wings

Mohamed Altawash of CH9 talks about how the organisation helps new enterprises.

34

Forging Forward

Carrefour Bahrain country head Jerome Akel on the rapid expansion of the business.

44

46 Bystander Our snappers covered major embassy events including the Indian and Egyptian National Day celebrations.

The Bystander pages also captured birthday bashes, openings and even a destination wedding! Additionally, the 21st anniversary feature has some golden oldies from the past 21 years.

Check it out to see if you made the cut!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

36

Reaching for the Summit

38

Healthcare for the Future

Masood Jawad discusses Everest Trading’s expansion and global outreach plans.

Dr George Cheriyan explains how AMH is shaping the future of healthcare in Bahrain.

40

Exciting Times Ahead

New GM, Fares Yactine, shares details of Gulf Hotel’s exciting new developments.

42

A New Juffair Landmark

Vijayan Sadanandan tells Liz O’Reilly about The Arch Hotel.

44

Mind over Matter

Hemant Joshi extols the virtues of harnessing the infinite powers of the human mind.

46

The Man Behind the Music

Dr Hazem Al Rawas shares his journey from Syria to Bahrain’s music scene.

September 2018 5

Issue 253

Contents September 2018 Motoring 66

My Life in Cars

Dick Potter shares his passion for motors.

69

A Model of Success

An introduction to the new Porsche Macan.

69

70-71 Motoring

Bites

BTM brings you the latest news from the motoring world.

FEATURE 72-73

Dining in Adliya

From stalwarts of the area to newcomers, BTM rounds up some of the best dining options in the heart of Adliya.

Dining

74

Classy Khaleeji Cuisine

An insight into the Middle Eastern marvels at Furn Bistro & Bakery.

80

Incredibly Indian

Behnaz Sanjana tries the many culinary delights of Show Shha restaurant.

70

73

86

A Japanese Gem

Ruka serves fantastic fare in a sophisticated ambience.

89

Hidden Gems in Bahrain 90-91 Table Hopping

Dining gossip from around the island.

Showcase

92-103 Marketplace: Latest products and services.

104-105

Business Bites

LIFESTYLE

107

What’s New: Must-have products

Downtime

108-109 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town

90

117

110 Music: Top tunes Games: The hot games of the month 112 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 113 Apps: Essential apps 114-115 Movies: New releases

111 Computer

116-117 A

Travel

City of Myths and Legends

Regulars

120 Tarotscope 121

AD Index WIN

122 WIN

107

111 Connect with Bahrain This Month:

114 www.bahrainthismonth.com

108

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

September 2018 7

Visit Our Newest Stores In Manama, Muharaq, Exhibition Road & Isa Town (Formerly Gulfmart)

‫ﻣﺠﻤﻊ اﻟﻮاﺣﺔ اﻟﺠﻔﻴﺮ‬

N E P O W NO as R U O F E R CAR *Extended Filipino Product Range *Fresh Fruits & Vegetables *Healthy Kitchen & Organic Section *Direct US & UK Import Products *Over 1200 Carrefour Private Label Items *Fresh Meat & Premium Cuts *Fresh Bakery & Fishery

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 September 2018 Welcome to the September issue on what is rather an auspicious occasion for us here at Bahrain This Month. We’re celebrating our 21st birthday, coming of age as it were. From a publication that was deemed unfeasible at the start, when many we approached were convinced there wasn’t enough happening in Bahrain to fill 80 pages each month, to a stalwart of the Kingdom’s commercial and social lives, I think I can safely say, we’ve made it. These days we are a multi-platform publisher and moving swiftly into the digital age. You can read highlights of the journey in our 21st anniversary feature, which also includes a pictorial glimpse into the past.

Thankfully, summer is coming to an end and the social scene on the island is beginning to come back to life. There are plenty of events scheduled, from international DJ visits to live music and a theatrical festival. Find all the details in our Happenings section and on the regularly updated calendar at www.bahrainthismonth.com We have a bumper interview section in this month’s issue including chats with Thai Ambassador, His Excellency Thanis Na Songkhla, who is looking forward to one of his country’s biggest festivals; musical medic Dr Hazem Al Rawas, the man behind the strings; celebrated NLP practitioner Hemant Joshi, who aims to help kids improve their memories; and Mohamed Altawash, founder of Corporate Hub (CH9), whose organisation aims to support fledgling businesses.

In our dining section, we’ve taken a look at some of the latest offerings in Adliya where new restaurants and cafés are popping up all the time in a testament to the economy’s optimistic recovery. And Behnaz has checked out the menus at Show Shaa in Juffair and Furn at The Westin, some people just have the best jobs.

In motoring, Dick Potter takes a look at iconic film vehicles. And in the Downtime section you’ll find your wish is our command with a new page highlighting this month’s biggest film releases.

As always, there are news round-ups from the worlds of food and beverage, business and commerce and motoring and we’ll be keeping these up to date throughout the month at www.bahrainthismonth.com Whether you read us in print or online, after 21 years Bahrain This Month remains 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.

COVER Cover Picture:

21st Anniversary Issue ADLIYA DINING - MOTORING - MOVIE MANIA

Since 1997

September 2018 ~ Vol. 22 ~ Issue 9

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

•

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.

INTERVIEWS HE THANIS NA SONGKHLA

21ST ANNIVERSARY ISSUE!

Thai Ambassador

MIND OVER MATTER

Hemant Joshi

Bahrain’s First and Favourite Monthly Publication Turns 21!

MUSICAL MEDIC

Dr Hazem Al Rawas

HAPPENINGS Al Sawari Theatre Festival Lebanese Megastar Adam Live in Concert!

DJ Redoxx in Town Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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

Nightlife

September 2018 9

bystander

Indian Independence Day

To view more images, scan the QR code

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Indian Ambassador, and wife Mamta, hosted a reception to celebrate the 72nd Independence Day of India at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Spa & Residence.

The cake-cutting ceremony

Mohamed Kooheji & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

Martin & Simon

Maha, Mamta & Rulan

HE Koo Hyunmo & Shaikha Rana

Ajith, Mohammed Dadabhai & Juzer

HE Hideki Ito

Akshay, Kishor & Mansoor

Sawsan, Renu, Maram & Muna

10 September 2018

HE Nor Huda & HE Suha Ibrahim Al Far

HE Dr A S U Mendis

HE Anwar Alabdulla

HE Dr Milad Nammour, Aldosari & Elie

Omprakash & Jyoti

Ruth, JP, George & Fareeza

HE Padam Sundas & Amrita

Pradanto & Anand

HE Abdulla bin Rashid Al Mudailwi & Buzaid

HE Simon Martin

www.bahrainthismonth.com

KENDO SOFA – DESIGN MANZONI & TAPINASSI KENDO COFFEE TABLE – DESIGN MANZONI & TAPINASSI VICO TABLE LAMP – DESIGN VICTOR VASILEV RIFLESSO RUG – DESIGN NATUZZI

VISIT US IN MANAMA PHOENICIA DECOR PALACE PALMS BLDG, TEL: 00973-17564444 / NATUZZI.COM

bystander

Egyptian Independence Day HE Suha Ibrahim Al Far, Egyptian Ambassador, hosted a reception to commemorate the 66th Anniversary of Egyptian Independence at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. Top officials, ambassadors and invited guests attended the event.

The cake-cutting ceremony

Sharif & HE Suha Ibrahim Al Far

Shaikh Abdulla

HE Dr Abdulla bin Abdulmalik Al Shaikh, HE Shaikh Azzam bin Mubarak Al Sabah & HE Abdulrahman Khalil Ahmed Afandi

HE Dr Milad Nammour, Mary, HE CĂŠcile Longe & Elie

Jale & HE Kemal Demirciler

12 September 2018

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & Wani

HE Zayed Al Zayani

HE Padam Sundas & Amrita

HE Kadri Al Sayeh & Samira

Riyad & HE Koo Hyunmo

Ameera & Ehabelshaik

Babette & Martin

Mamta, Wani & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

Ahmed, Nawaf & Mohammed

HE Anwar Alabdulla & Karim Al Shaker

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Moroccan National Day

The Moroccan Embassy hosted a reception to celebrate the 19th anniversary of the accession of King Mohammed VI to the throne.

The cake-cutting ceremony

Fouzia & HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi

HE Suha Ibrahim Al Far & Samira

Shaikh Abdulla, Abdul Rahman & Yousif

Jassim & Salwa

Amal

Nasser Al Arayedh & Ruslan

HE Anwar Alabdulla, HE Mohammed bin Yousif & HE Abdulrahman Khalil Ahmed Afandi

Sheikh Al Asfour & HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof, HE KM Mominur Rahman & Wani

HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi with Pierre-Marie and the Moroccan community

HE Koo Hyunmo, Jano & Khozai

14 September 2018

Fouzia & Kadia

Sulaima & Rony

George & Mrs Khaddouri

Amal & Itimad

HE Nor Huda & Georgette

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Aceng, Addi, HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo, Retnani & Agus M

Indonesian Independence Day The Embassy of Indonesia conducted a flag hoisting ceremony to commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia.

HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo & Retnani

Hardi & Juwita

Ade L, Bambang & Asiking

Pradanto & Evy

Dean, M Habibie, Agus S, Laily & Pradanto

16 September 2018

Muhammad Habibie & Dean

Angki

Evy, Juwita, Hardi & Wahyu

Indra & Sayid

Hafidz, Sisca & family

Agus S & Laily

Susanto

Murnita

Weldy & Hery

Agus M & Lina

Hery, Sayid, HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo, Andre, Rian, Ahmad & Shandy

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

September 2018-HAPPENINGS ALL THE ISLAND’S A STAGE AL SAWARI INTERNATIONAL YOUTH THEATRE FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER 1-10

A

l Sawari Theatre is the first theatrical festival specialising in plays for young people. Since its birth in 1993, it has showcased around 100 plays and various workshops. This festival has been monumental in Arab theatre, having also launched the Ibrahim Khalfan Fund to support theatrical works and to encourage Bahrainis to produce plays.

The 12th Al Sawari International Youth Theatre Festival, under the patronage of HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, president of Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, has become an international platform this year, after only hosting Arabic plays thus far.

Ten plays were carefully selected by a panel, consisting of artists Hassan Abdulraheem, Ibrahim Khalfan and Jama’an Al Ruwaie, who reviewed 54 plays from around the world. The 10 plays, and festival participants, will be competing

for a range of accolades, making for an entertaining theatre experience for one and all.

Supporting the event are Tamkeen as strategic partner, National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) as platinum sponsor, and Batelco as silver sponsor.

This year, the festival will also feature the first Al Sawari International Conference for Youth, which presents a global platform for performers to share their experiences under the motto, ‘Theatre…and Beyond Humanity’. The conference will shed light on the most important intellectual and artistic developments in the world, and showcase modern theatrical experiences.

There will also be a workshop, sponsored by the American Embassy, and conducted by American trainer, Roberta Levetow, to explore the importance of networking and creating bonds among theatre enthusiasts to cement cultural links among them.

PLAY

Cultural Hall

Pioneering, award-winning Bahraini poet and playwright, Ali Al Sharqawi, will be rewarded for his work, and for contributing to Bahraini theatre keeping pace with international theatre.

Also to be honoured is Nora Amin, novelist, storyteller and playwright. Additionally, she was the founder of the Egyptian Modern Dance Theatre Band at Cairo Opera House, the Lamusica Independent Theatre Group and the Egyptian Theatre of the Oppressed.

Hussain Al Rifaie, a founder of the Al Sawari Theatre Band in Bahrain, member in the Board of Directors of the Arab Centre for Theatre Training in Beirut, and important contributor to theatre culture in the Arab world, will also be honoured at the event.

Come along and experience youth of different cultures taking the stage as one.

Call 17 298-777.

DATE

TIME

The Key (Bahrain)

September 1

8pm

Cultural Hall

Yellow Days (Georgia)

September 2

8pm

Cultural Hall

Not Yet (Tunisia)

September 3

8pm

Cultural Hall

Wandering Time (Russia)

September 4

8pm

Cultural Hall

For Better or Worse

September 5

8pm

Cultural Hall

Flight Over the City (Armenia)

September 6

8pm

Cultural Hall

Taa Sakena (Egypt)

September 7

6.30pm

Hadra Hura (Syria/Germany)

September 7

8pm

Cultural Hall

Scream of Pain (Algeria)

September 8

8pm

Cultural Hall

I Will Die in Exile – Honorary play for the festival from the Palestinian theatre

September 9

6.30pm

www.bahrainthismonth.com

VENUE

Muharraq Model Youth Centre

Muharraq Model Youth Centre September 2018 17

happenings

STAMP SEALS REVEALED SEPTEMBER 1-20

When? Fridays Event? High Society Fridays Venue? Coda Jazz Lounge

Follow your brunch with an evening of smooth jazz with Cinnamon Brown and the Jazzmatazz Band, followed by groovy house music into the wee hours.

Call 34 342-828.

When? September 1-20 Event? The Stamp Seal: Hall of Dilmun and Its Hidden Art Venue? Bahrain National Museum Call 17 298-777.

When? September 1 Event? Bloodshel Phase One Album Launch Venue? Republiq Lounge Call 35 633-050.

When? September 4 Event? Meet the Masters After School Art Class Venue? Wild About Art, Juffair

Young art enthusiasts can learn about MC Escher, Paul Cezanne, Maria Martinez and Rosa Bonheur in a session that encourages them to imagine, draw, paint and create.

Call 33 365-906.

When? September 5 Event? Freddie for the Day Venue? Hard Rock Café Bahrain Call 17 291-569.

When? September 5, 7pm-8.30pm Event? Rugby Club Professionals Business Networking Event Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club

On the first Wednesday of every month, meet with an array of business professionals in the Player’s Bar for a fantastic networking opportunity. Price is BD5 for club members and BD7 for non-members inclusive of a drink and canapés. There are limited spaces and tickets must be purchased 24 hours in advance from BRFC reception.

Call 17 695-809.

When? September 5, 6pm Event? Neon On white Party Venue? Cavallo Club

Wear white, see the light and dance to the tunes of DJ Shortman.

Call 35 111-181.

18 September 2018

THE STAMP SEAL: HALL OF DILMUN AND ITS HIDDEN ART

Seals were a main administrative tool used to regulate trade and organise society. Hardly bigger than a few centimetres, they were used on official documents, tags attached to goods and on building gates to certify authenticity and ownership. In addition to their main administrative function, the seals might have had some metaphysical connotations.

With a shape and iconography unusual to the Near East, the Dilmun seals illustrate more than any other category of artefacts, the most original material representation of the Dilmun culture and its only surviving art.

This exhibition draws on the permanent collection of the Bahrain National Museum and some highlights from the National Museum of Kuwait. The display illustrates an exceptional selection of seals spanning the third and second

Bahrain National Museum

millennia BCE and examines the use, techniques, diversity and splendour of the Dilmun seals. From 8am to 8pm daily, enthusiasts can go and have a look.

Call 17 298-777.

ROCKING OUT SEPTEMBER 1

BLOODSHEL PHASE ONE ALBUM LAUNCH

Republiq Lounge, Park Regis Lotus Hotel

Bahrain’s most extreme metal act takes to the stage to launch their debut album, Phase One. Band members Jassim Algillidary, on vocals, Ali Dashti, on electric guitar, Salem Sulaibeekh, on bass guitar and Abdulla Adel, on drums, have been playing together since 2012. They’re known for a roaring stage show that has gained them a loyal following with relatively few public appearances. We can expect the same energy in this first album, which promises to be a showcase of just what the band does best.

From 8pm.

Call 35 633-050.

READY TO FREDDIE SEPTEMBER 5

FREDDIE FOR THE DAY

MIAMI CALLING Hard Rock Café Bahrain

On what would have been the 72nd birthday of the legendary Freddie Mercury, the Hard Rock Café invites you to join in a celebration of the iconic Queen front-man’s life and music as staff and customers raise awareness and funds for The Mercury Phoenix Trust in its global battle against HIV/AIDS. There’ll be a live band so you can immerse yourself in a throwback to all the Queen classics among other Freddie fans. With great music and good company comes a guaranteed good time.

Call 17 291-569.

SEPTEMBER 6

DJ EPPS LIVE

Klub 360

All the way from Florida, DJ Epps returns to Klub 360 by popular demand. A great all-round entertainer, HaitianAmerican Epps took the 2014 Diamond Awards gong for Best International DJ. He cites his influences growing up as DJ Red Alert on WBLS radio in New York and Funkmaster Flex, and since then he’s gone on to work with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, even having his own DJ Epps Week in Miami! If you missed him when he was here before, don’t make the same mistake again as this one imparts some serious bragging rights. Entry is free for women and military. Guys pay BD5.

Call 36 025-360. www.bahrainthismonth.com

DEFINING AFFORDABLE LUXURY WHILE SHAPING

YOUR EXPERIENCE INTO MEMORIES GULF COURT HOTEL BUSINESS BAY NOW OPEN IN DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Al Abraj Street, Business Bay P.O Box 32300 Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 424 3333 | Fax: +971 4 424 3334 | Email: info@gulfcourthotelbusinessbay.com www.gulfcourthotelbusinessbay.com

Operated by:

happenings When? September 6 Event? DJ Epps Live Venue? Klub 360 Call 36 025-360.

OLD SKOOL FUN SEPTEMBER 6 AND 7

When? September 6 and 7 Event? Rolling Clones Tribute Band Venue? Sherlock Holmes Call 66 901-323.

Head to the hotel’s gorgeous pool as the sun goes down to enjoy the party vibe.

Call 16 000-111.

When? September 7 Event? Luau Pool Party Venue? Waikiki Kitchen

Save the date for a chilled-out pool party with DJs Smiley, Arson and XTC. Unlimited house beverages from 1pm-7pm, buffet and grills till 6pm. Price BD25.

Call 66 666-360 or 17 360-360.

When? September 7 Event? Snatch Presents Argenis Brito, Daylomar and HK Venue? Elements Pool and Lounge Call 17 271-942.

A FITTING TRIBUTE SEPTEMBER 6 AND 7

ROLLING CLONES TRIBUTE BAND

TECHNO MEETS LATIN SEPTEMBER 7

Balkan Night 4.0 means it’s time to enjoy hits from the former Yugoslavia with DJ Gargykg and DJ Nena who invites you to help her celebrate her birthday the traditional way.

Call 17 246-777.

20 September 2018

SNATCH PRESENTS ARGENIS BRITO, DAYLOMAR AND HK

Elements Pool and Lounge

A Venezuelan native, Argenis Brito has been on the music scene for decades, having fronted various bands before finding his niche when he was at the forefront of a new sound at the turn of the century, hitting the DJ booth and fusing techno beats with Latin rhythms. Since then he’s played at some of the hottest venues across Europe, Asia and the Americas. He’ll be ably supported by local legends Khalid Daylami, AKA Daylomar, and Hussain Kadhem, aka HK of the Soundscapes artist collective.

Call 17 271-942.

When? September 7 Event? DJ Eliza May Live Venue? Club Liv Call 66 600-025.

When? September 9 Event? Balkan Night Venue? LNT Gastropub

Sherlock Holmes

Sherlock’s at The Gulf Hotel welcomes another great tribute act. While not quite of the same vintage, The Rolling Clones have been entertaining crowds across the world for more than 20 years, distilling the show down to a pure hit of rock ‘n roll, with a chaser of sequinned glam.

With a set list that covers the early days of the rhythm and blues, through to the excesses of the ‘70s, The Rolling Clones’ show is a meticulously researched, truly faithful interpretation of the Stones’ live show, with a brass section and wailing siren of a female vocalist.

Each performance is delivered with a smirk and a wink, recalling the mischief-making of Jagger and Richards, keeping it true to the spirit of the originals. They’ll be playing during the evening on September 6 priced at BD5 in advance and BD7 on the door and at brunch on September 7.

Call 66 901-323.

When? September 7 Event? Ala Ghawas Live Venue? Polo Gastropub Call 17 725-000.

When? September 8 Event? BRFC Golf Championship Venue? Royal Golf Club Call 17 695-809.

Calexico

Having Deejayed for 25 years and collected music for slightly longer, it’s no surprise that this guy’s knowledge is deep. He ran a decade-long drum and bass night in his hometown of Plymouth, UK, where he is affectionately known as Plymouth’s 14th best DJ. Aldo produces funky breaks for Jalapeno Records and in the past has recorded for Catskills, Tru Thoughts, AV8 and his own Good Living records. He also helps other artists with samples, most notably Fatboy Slim, and was responsible for the Rizzle Kicks Mama do the Hump.

Aldo has a deep knowledge of music but a love for pop, and is never afraid to drop cold classic bangers when it’s needed. Over the years he has played in Japan, Australia, most of Europe and the US. He has also graced many of the big festivals, including Glastonbury, Bestival and Glade as well as Space, Café del Mar and Hi in Ibiza, so we should be in for two awesome nights — and entry is free.

Call 17 666-644.

When? September 6 and 7 Event? Aldo Vanucci Live Venue? Calexico Call 17 666-644.

When? September 7, 4pm Event? Sunset Pool Party by WU Venue? ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands

ALDO VANUCCI LIVE

CHILLED LISTENING SEPTEMBER 7

ALA GHAWAS LIVE

Polo Gastropub

One of Bahrain’s favourite musical sons takes to the stage at Polo for a live set, joined by his friends Ahmed AlQasim, Fawaz Al Shaikh, Ali AlQaseer and Beata Just. They’ll be playing songs from Ala’s most recent album release, Tryst, along with some of his oldies.

Expect an evening of mellow, thought-provoking tunes in good company. Entry is free.

Call 17 725-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? September 9 Event? Book Launch Assilah – 40 years Venue? Bahrain National Museum

Call 17 298-777.

When? September 10, 7.30pm Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? ERA Tower, 5th Floor, Seef (opposite Elite Grande Hotel)

Get together with likeminded literary creatives to chat, network and learn.

Call 39 574-795.

When? September 12, 7.30pm Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? ARTDIVANO (Gallery), Al Andalus Garden, Gudaibiya

Join in for a chance to learn about poetry, hear other members’ works and introduce your own.

Call 39 574-795.

When? September 13 Event? The Hyper Thursday HipHop Live Show Venue? Klub 360 Call 66 600-025 or 33 028-008.

When? September 13 Event? Jazz Fusion Concert Venue? Coda Jazz Lounge Call 34 342-828.

When? September 16 Event? Baby Ballet Venue? Little Wonders Preschool

Every Sunday, in collaboration with Victoria Dance, Little Wonders Preschool gives your tiny tots a chance to enjoy learning the art of ballet.

Call 36 447-000 or 36 554-000.

When? September 16-20 Event? BWC Art Exhibition Venue? Harbour Gate, Bahrain Financial Harbour Call 39 574-795.

When? September 17, 7.30pm Event? Bahrain Writers’ Creative Workshop Venue? The Juffair Grand Hotel Coffee shop, Juffair Get your writing on track with advice and learning tips.

Call 39 574-795.

22 September 2018

INTERNATIONAL SPINNER

NORMAL-SHAPED BALLS

SEPTEMBER 7

SEPTEMBER 8

DJ ELIZA MAY LIVE

Club Liv

Eliza May is a DJ and producer based in Los Angeles. Her sets are an explosive mix of R&B, hiphop, EDM, and pop music with elements of turntablism and scratching. She has managed to gain an international audience, playing shows all across the globe, from LA to NYC, and France to her homeland, Russia. Eliza’s incredible DJing and production skills can be credited to her musical background as a classically trained pianist, as well as to her mentors DJ Qbert and DJ I-Dee. Entrance is BD5 for men, ladies go free.

Call 66 600-025.

BRFC GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

Royal Golf Club

The first-ever Bahrain Rugby Football Club Golf Championship beckons you to enjoy a bit of golf, a bit of socialising and some fun competition.

Golfers can either register as groups of four or be grouped into fours. It’s priced at BD30 per person, with family access to the Country Club post round, individual Stableford prizes and team prizes.

Don’t miss out on a fun-filled chance to meet new people while you enjoy the sport.

To reserve your teams and for further information, visit the Bahrain RFC website.

Call 17 695-809.

AN ARTISTIC TRIBUTE SEPTEMBER 9

40 YEARS

Bahrain National Museum

In celebration of 40 years since the beginning of The International Cultural Moussem of Assilah, the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities presents a book documenting Bahraini artists’ participation in the festival through testimonials and photographs.

Assilah, a small fortified coastal fishing village in northern Morocco, is renowned for becoming an important cultural hub for the region and the Arab world at large.

The International Cultural Moussem of Assilah is a summer festival held since 1978 when two local friends, Mohammed Melehi, an artist and curator, and HE Mohamed Benaïssa, a photographer and politician (formerly Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Culture), invited artists to paint murals on the medina’s whitewashed walls.

Since then the festival has attracted 100,000 visitors each season with concerts, lectures, poetry readings, exhibitions, and visiting artists from all over the world who come to cover the whitewashed city with murals as well as to participate in the many art workshops offered.

Bahrain and Bahraini artists established strong ties with Assilah from the festival’s inception and the book is a tribute to Assilah through the words and works of those Bahraini artists who have participated in the festival throughout its 40 years.

The launch takes place at 7pm.

Call 17 298-777.

FAVES FROM THAILAND SEPTEMBER 13

THE HYPER THURSDAY HIP HOP LIVE SHOW

MD Mochio aka ‘The King Of South’ and Dj Weezii are in the house to provide the best of live hip-hop and R&B. South Asia-based MD Mochio is a recording artist, songwriter, event host, club MC and promoter from Cameroon. He’s contributed to the success of many of Thailand’s hottest clubs including 808 and Flexx, Pattaya, and the Sugar Club, Bangkok, to mention just a few. He is presently a resident MC at Illuzion Phuket, which is the biggest club in Thailand and number 48 in DJ Mag’s top 100 number clubs in the world. His hit single, Fine Boy, captured the interest of

Klub 360 superstar Wyclef Jean who signed him to his record label. MD has performed alongside artists such as OT Genesis, Redfoo, Solja Boy, Kid Ink, Brandon Bill, 50 Cent and more. He’s joined by DJ Weezii, another star of the Thai club scene who’s making a name for himself with a fusion of Afro beats and urban hip-hop.

Call 66 600-025 or 33 028-008. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? September 18 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

Baraka is an incredible non-verbal film containing images of 24 countries from six continents. The screening will be held at 8pm, and is priced at BD10+, which can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening.

LATIN MEETS JAZZ SEPTEMBER 13

JAZZ FUSION CONCERT

TIME TRAVELLING Coda Jazz Lounge

SEPTEMBER 21

BACK 2 SCHOOL RETRO PARTY

Coda Jazz Lounge

Call 17 230-123, email info@ lafontaineartcentre.net or follow Instagram @lafontainebh When? September 21 Event? Back 2 School Retro Party Venue? Coda Jazz Lounge Call 34 342-828.

When? September 22 Event? BBBF Golf Day Venue? Royal Golf Club

This year’s Bahrain British Business Forum Corporate Golf Day tees off at 1pm with a prize-giving buffet dinner at 6.30pm. It’s a great networking opportunity for members as well as a social day out. Teams of four pay BD200 and there are lots of prizes to be won.

email bbbfmemberships@ batelco.com.bh When? September 22-30 Event? UCI Road World Championship Viewing Venue? Murphy’s

Fusion fans are in for a treat with a mix of Latin and jazz beats as seven-piece Colombian-Bahraini band Cobao take to the stage at Coda. Head down to watch and join in with the salsa set tearing up the dance floor to authentic South American rhythms complete with horns, conga drums and more. Get ready for an evening of great live music supported by DJ Talalino.

Call 34 342-828.

DRAWING INSPIRATION SEPTEMBER 16-20

BWC ART EXHIBITION

Call 16 030-303.

When? September 24 Event? Teddy Tennis Venue? Little Wonders Pre School

Call 36 447-000.

When? September 27 and 28 Event? Adam Live in Concert Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Call 17 636-363.

When? September 27 and 29 Event? Live Music Venue? Coda Jazz Lounge Call 34 342-828.

24 September 2018

Harbour Gate, Bahrain Financial Harbour

Bahrain Writers’ Circle (BWC) holds its first exhibition, ‘Confluence – Where Words and Images Meet’, wherein one can witness around 30 works of art inspired by words or art that has inspired words, created by 18 teams of writers and artists.

The BWC is a volunteer group established in 2011 by Robin Barratt — bestselling author of true crime. It welcomes writers at all stages of their writing lives and aims to create an encouraging environment in which to nurture creativity, improve the craft of writing and provide an opportunity to network.

The exhibition is located on the second floor at Harbour Gate within the Bahrain Financial Harbour. It is open from 11am until 8pm and admission is free.

Call 39 574-795.

On the event of the eight-day competition, gather at Murphy’s at The Grove Hotel to witness the world’s best road cyclists compete over eight days of unparalleled courses and challenging climbs in Tirol, Austria. From 10am to 4pm.

A great opportunity to teach children sportsmanship and coax them into sport, comes in the form of Teddy Tennis hosted for children aged between two-and-a-half and four years. Taking place every Monday, from 12.30pm to 1.15pm.

Calling all you kids of the ‘70s, this one’s for you. You don’t have to dig out the dodgy fashions but you will need your dancing shoes for a night of great retro tunes, featuring Cinnamon Brown and her band, followed by DJ Damian playing the hits from the ‘80s and ‘90s to keep the party jumping into the small hours. Free entry for couples and mixed groups Call 34 342-828.

DOUBLE FUN SEPTEMBER 27 AND 29

LIVE MUSIC

Coda Jazz Lounge

Coda goes right the way back to its jazzy routes on September 27 with a Gatsby-themed swing party featuring Cinnamon Brown and the Jazzmatazz Band supported by DJ Fello. If you want to check out Bahrain’s thriving swing dance scene, this is the place to be for some great dancing coupled with fab music. Then on September 29, the Latin sounds return with an evening of pure salsa, bachata and kizomba from Colombian-Bahraini band Cuatro supported by Latino DJ Talalino.

To enhance the Saturday night party, ladies get three complimentary drinks and guys get 20 per cent off food and drinks all evening.

Call 34 342-828. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings ADAM LIVE IN CONCERT! SEPTEMBER 27 & 28

MUSIC CONCERT AND OKTOBERFEST

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Suffering from holiday blues? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa brings some of the best parties in Bahrain to lift your spirits.

In an effort to offer a culturally diversified experience, Sofitel Bahrain is pulling out all the stops this month. Lebanese megastar, Adam, takes to the stage on September 27 and 28 at Al Nassereyah Ballroom, to perform his iconic hits live. The evening will be complemented with delightful Lebanese cuisine along with a selection of flavourful hubbly bubbly, guaranteeing a memorable night.

September also introduces another treat with Oktoberfest celebrations at Tapas from September 22 to October 7. Sofitel Bahrain brings home one of the biggest Volksfest, celebrating all things German, with a selection of traditional Deutsch Essen gastronomy and ales, as well as live entertainment by the Cuban band, Timeless, backed with glamorous

Adam

dancers and lots of hidden surprises.

Finally, little ones can enjoy a thrilling journey, full of art, entertainment and team building exercises with the hotel’s newly renovated aquatic-themed Kids Club.

Encouraging fun-filled physical activities, its colourful theme inspires a wonderland of unlimited fun. It also offers plenty of outdoor

activities with a brand-new water park to keep children entertained for hours on end, in a safe environment supervised by Sofitel Bahrain’s certified minders.

Stretching across the beautiful shores of Zallaq, Sofitel Bahrain is a five-star hotel and resort with a perfect blend of French elegance and traditional Bahraini hospitality. It features the only Thalassa Sea & Spa in the Middle East and presents the opportunity to create unforgettable memories, with 262 luxurious sea-facing rooms, including six uniquely themed Opera Suites, with private infinity pools, and one majestic Royal Suite – the largest of its kind in Bahrain.

Call 17 636-363.

Vinoy, Ou & Aun

Embassy Celebration The Thai Embassy hosted a function at its premises on the occasion of the 66th birthday of Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarankun.

Kanita, Hatai, HE Thanis Na Songkhla & Khalifa Al Rumaihi Kasorn

Rak, Namrin & Muchchim

26 September 2018

Paul, Sirine & Attapol

Sarah & Papaorn

Sarah & Gobardaan

Sherry

www.bahrainthismonth.com

LET BRAZIL COME TO YOU Take a journey through our festive fare with live music & city skyline views from our roof top restaurant Opens from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am

+973 6631 6666 | Juffair Via Brasil Bahrain

viabrasilbah

THE BEST INDIAN DINING EXPERIENCE WITH LIVE MUSIC Savour the authentic taste of Indian cuisine with a wide variety of traditional Indian recipes Lunch: 12:00pm to 3:00pm Dinner: 7:00pm to 11:45pm

+973 6631 6666 | Juffair Jashanbahrain

Building 65, Road 4003, Block 340, Juffair P.O. Box 13220 | Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain info@wyndhamgardenmanama.com wyndhamgardenmanama.com

Jashanbah

happenings

SOUNDS OF EUROPE

SEPTEMBER 28

DJ REDOXX LIVE

Coral Bay

CORAL BAY

DJ Redoxx

Miami Events Bahrain has held some of the island’s best parties at Coral Bay and there’s more to come with one of Italy’s foremost DJ/ producers hitting the shores this month.

Providing unparalleled entertainment is the stated aim of Miami Events Bahrain which organises and hosts some of the Kingdom’s foremost events, bringing in multi-talented artists and performers from all over the world.

Miami Events Bahrain founder Madan Perattur has boundless energy and lots of plans to ensure the coming events will be everything partygoers have come to expect from the organisation.

His latest big-name signing is DJ Redoxx, who will bring his White Perception party to Coral Bay on September 28.

A precocious talent, Redoxx started DJing at the age of 13. In 2015, at just 17, Redoxx (aka Niccolò de Simone) won a scholarship to the official Pioneer DJ School in Amsterdam, the home of dance music.

He was a finalist on the TV show Top DJ Italia in 2016 finishing in the top three. And since then he has played at some of the biggest venues in Rome and is making a name for himself across Europe with his mix of electro and progressive house.

Catch him live on September 28 only at the island’s favourite party destination, Coral Bay, the ultimate venue for relaxation, adventure, entertainment and absolute enjoyment.

28 September 2018

Redoxx is the latest in a line-up of great artists from Miami Events Bahrain, which has staged unforgettable concerts from the likes of Sean Kingston, Ky-Mani Marley, son of the international musical and cultural icon Bob Marley, Markus Schulz, Ferry Corsten, DJ Whookid and many more.

Madan says: “Stay tuned, as we’ll soon reveal the renowned artists lined up for our calendar over the coming months that will completely shake the Kingdom.”

Call 35 431-458 or email contact@miamievents.bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? September 28, 9pm Event? Jazz Night — An Evening with Sandi Thom Venue? The Privé Jazz Lounge Call 16 000-000.

When? September 28 Event? DJ B Jones Live Venue? Gallery 21 Call 17 711-600.

When? September 28 Event? White Perception, DJ Redoxx Live Venue? Coral Bay Call 35 431-458 When? September 29 Event? Autumn Dragon Boat Race Venue? Bahrain Rowing and Canoe Centre Call 33 186-939.

LIVE JAZZ SEPTEMBER 28

AN EVENING WITH SANDI THOM

Privé Jazz Lounge

The Domain Bahrain launches its new jazz lounge in the company of Scottish singer-songwriter Sandi Thom who has been living on the island for the past few years. She is best known for her 2006 release I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (With Flowers in my Hair) but also topped the UK singles and albums charts, performed at the Royal Albert Hall, opened for George Michael and played on a mountain top at the World Skiing Championships in Sweden. So, she certainly has lots of experience under her belt — or in her guitar case. Since the venue is decidedly jazzy, we can expect some mellow tuneful musings alongside some of the classics.

Call 16 000-000.

IBIZA VIBES SEPTEMBER 28

When? September 30 Event? Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride — On Registration Venue? On registration Register to create your fundraising profile at www. gentlemansride.com

DJ B JONES LIVE

Gallery 21

International DJ B Jones swaps the White Isle for our Island of Smiles for a classy show brought to you by the guys at Vibes. A regular at Cream and Café Mambo, she’s a house DJ and producer playing an eclectic electronic mix to guarantee a bangin’ night for a fun-loving crowd. Local spinners DJ MoMo and Andy Collins will start your night with extraordinary beats.

Free entry by guest list until 11pm. After that it’s BD10 for ladies and BD15 for gents at the door.

Call 17 711-600.

When? October 4 Event? Oktoberfest Venue? The Gulf Hotel Call 17 713-000.

TAKE TO THE WATER SEPTEMBER 29

AUTUMN DRAGON BOAT RACE

Bahrain Rowing and Canoe Centre

Don’t miss the big race this month in which several teams will be getting wet in the latest dragon boat challenge. Never heard of dragon boating? Think Hawaii 5-0, long boats with teams paddling like hell to the beat of a merciless drummer. It sounds like hard work, and it is. But it’s also great fun and a superb way to build fitness. You can book a team or contact the centre if you just want to know how to get involved. Team prices start at BD160 for booking until September 15 and BD160 thereafter. Races run from 6am to 10am and there are prizes for first, second and best time. Sign up Now at BRC or via the tamarran.com mobile app.

Contact row@bahrainrowing.org or call 33 186-939.

RIDE ON SEPTEMBER 30

DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMEN’S RIDE

Bahrain is officially taking part in the world’s largest charitable motorcycle event for owners of classic and vintage styled bikes on Sunday, September 30. This year’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride will bring together over 120,000 well-dressed gentlefolk in 650-plus cities on stunning motorcycles for men’s health across 95 countries. The goal for 2018 is to raise awareness and USD6 million for prostate cancer and men’s mental health on behalf of charity partner the Movember Foundation.

30 September 2018

On Registration

All participating riders must be registered on The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride website to unlock local ‘ride details’, and to be in the running for amazing prizes and rewards for your fundraising efforts. These include motorcycles, helmets, watches and apparel. Ride details are to remain confidential to ensure the success of the event and the charitable goals.

Once registered on the website, you will be supplied with all the relevant information through your dashboard.

Register to create your fundraising profile at www.gentlemansride.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

this month

HE Thanis Na Songkhla

The Wind Beneath their Wings, p32

EVER CLOSER TIES Thailand’s new ambassador to the Kingdom, HE Thanis Na Songkhla, told Liz O’Reilly about plans for increased bilateral cooperation and a coming high-level visit.

Having previously served as Consul General in Jeddah for more than three years, His Excellency was already familiar with the region when he took up his first ambassadorial posting in Bahrain in April.

A political science graduate, he has worked for Thailand’s Foreign Ministry for more than 30 years and has vast overseas experience – from Chicago to Japan.

He says: “I am very much enjoying Bahrain. The people are friendly and welcoming and I have had a warm reception from the official authorities.”

The ambassador says his main task during his tenure is to build on the two countries’ already excellent relationships, which see trade figures at USD249 million annually, and to serve the approximately 8,000 Thais residing in Bahrain, who mainly work in the cosmetic and spa industries as well as in private households.

“We recently celebrated the formation of the Thai Club, which is accredited by the Ministry of Labour,” says His Excellency. “It’s about gathering the community together to take care of the well-being of Thais in Bahrain and to provide aid to any Thais in distress. It was launched on April 30 and has done a lot of work already. It’s a non-profit and has activities and information resources to help Thai people in many ways, for example during illness, with information, money and charity. It’s also involved in culture to promote better understanding between Bahrainis and Thais.”

Of his plans for his time in Bahrain, the ambassador explains: “I have been instructed by my foreign minister to help promote the good existing relationship and make it concrete. We have more than 26 Memoranda of Understanding in many areas, for example, social and cultural and cooperation in many medical fields, trade, www.bahrainthismonth.com

science and agriculture. We think it’s a time we should look to review [cooperative ventures] and implement these for future progress.”

To that end, there was a mid-year review in August with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Thailand, which evaluates areas of cooperation with the ministry in Bahrain. Dignitaries from both countries participated.

His Excellency explains: “This was the follow-up meeting from last year when the Thai Prime Minister visited Bahrain in April to celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations. At that time there were plans to strengthen fields of cooperation. That was followed by the visit by the Foreign Minister in February this year for the SJC High Joint Commission – which was the third one to take place between Thailand and Bahrain. He met with Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, as well as having audiences with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.”

During the mid-year review, officials were tasked with discussing the planned visit of Shaikha Khalid to Thailand.

In terms of cultural cooperation, the next big event is in October when the embassy and the Thai community will come together to celebrate Loy Krathong Festival (pictured) – one of Thailand’s biggest festivities in which people gather around bodies of water, from pools to lakes, and release lotus-shaped rafts decorated with candles, incense and flowers to pay their respects to the goddess of water. In the spirit of friendship, local people will be invited to take part.

His Excellency concludes: “Bahrain and Thailand have really friendly relations. We honour that and want to do our best to make it sustainable for the benefit of both sides. The relationship is long standing. Some Thai people see Bahrain as their second home and I feel that some Bahrainis feel that way about Thailand, too. From the Royal families to the people, relations are excellent on all levels.”

Forging Forward, p34

Reaching for the Summit, p36

A New Juffair Landmark, p42

View more info online

September 2018 31

interview

Founder and chairman of Corporate Hub (CH9), Mohamed Altawash, tells Behnaz Sanjana how the entity is uplifting fledgling enterprises in the region.

Mohamed Altawash

THE WIND BENEATH THEIR WINGS

A

s a privately owned business accelerator, CH9 mentors entrepreneurs with their start-ups and scale-ups, to reach their maximum business potential. “It started as a thought in my head many years ago,” says Mohamed. “The dewaniya, or majlis, that my father regularly held was an inspiration.

Anybody from the neighbourhood could approach him to request financial assistance to start an enterprise – a convenience store, grocery shop or bakery. He, along with his friends, would pool in the money to get the business running. Unfortunately, dewaniyas today are no more informal business hubs.”

The organisation formally started operations in 2017 to help SMEs across all sectors. “We are unique – more than just a business centre,” he says. “We don’t just support tech, a major player in the business arena today. We welcome individuals and enterprises across the board – including in art, music and culture. We are the first business accelerator and incubator in Bahrain, and one of the first few and biggest in the Gulf. We’ve graduated 55 start-ups to date.”

The idea is not just about funding new ventures. Mohamed explains: “Entrepreneurs attain knowledge in the time they spend with us, a period not less than one year. After going through very structured acceleration programmes, that are run in cooperation with our many partner companies and individual mentors, the business will potentially be an investable one. Here step in the venture capital funds, business angel networks, and family 32 September 2018

We are the first business accelerator and incubator in Bahrain.” conglomerates in Bahrain and the Gulf that we associate with.”

The company has the legal rights to provide enterprises with a co-working space and the hub’s address can be used in registration formalities. Mohamed says: “It has been projected that by 2020, 40 per cent of the businesses in the US are going to operate from co-working spaces. It enables entrepreneurs to make minimal investments on infrastructure, allowing them to focus more on the creation, monetisation and marketing of their product. At CH9, they get the flexibility to expand from one to four desks, and then to a cubicle as they grow.

Eventually our start-ups become scale-ups.”

Five bootcamps have been held so far at the hub, with participation from the world over. The entrepreneurs gain invaluable business insights into what it takes to succeed from CH9’s many global partners like YoStartups, Tamkeen, Bahrain EDB, StartUp Bahrain and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism.

Start-ups like Wnna, an artificial intelligence-powered contextual search tool, and Akalati, a platform that provides catering services, have their grassroots in CH9, and are

now rapidly scaling up. “Careem, the UAEbased company, chose us as their operational hub because we could provide them with the know-how to operate in Bahrain – from registrations to digital marketing. Now they manage their operations in Kuwait and Saudi out of Bahrain. Same with QuickLink from the UK, which provides services to financial institutions. We not only helped them with market penetration, but also recruitment, as we have university students and freelancers who are members at CH9. So, it is an integrated business ecosystem that works,” he says.

He adds: “Bahrain is the only recognised start-up ecosystem in the Middle East by New York’s Genome Report. The country is specifically recognised for fintech, cloud computing and gaming. In 2019, the Global Entrepreneurs Congress will be conducted in Bahrain – a big step forward.”

A seasoned businessman with a vast range of experience in numerous sectors across the GCC and the MENA region, Mohamed started his first real estate venture in 2002. He says: “In spite of the challenging economic scenario, I am optimistic about Bahrain’s diversifying economy. Historically we are a resilient nation.

I have developed several real estate companies – some are listed on the stock markets of Bahrain, Saudi and Kuwait, while a few did not succeed. But we must remember that failure is not a bad thing at the end of the day, and that we must not allow it from stopping us. There is no harm in shutting down a failed venture and starting afresh.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

Carrefour Bahrain’s country head, Jerome Akel, talks shop and the rapid expansion of the business.

Jerome Akel

BEHNAZ SANJANA

FORGING FORWARD

C

arrefour, one of the world’s favourite household retail brands, has made its mark in the Kingdom with 12 stores.

“Seven of these are hypermarkets and five are supermarkets,” says Jerome, who heads operations in Bahrain. “Majid Al Futtaim Retail is the exclusive franchisee of the Carrefour brand in 38 countries across the Middle East, Africa and Asia.” The two biggest branches are the sprawling outlets at The Bahrain Mall and at City Centre Bahrain. Both stores cover an area of over 10,000sq/m and offer much more than just food products, including textiles, home accessories and a wide range of electronics.

A giant conglomerate based in the UAE, Majid Al Futtaim has transformed the face of shopping, entertainment and leisure to ‘create great moments for everyone, every day’. Over the years, it has grown into one of the most respected and successful businesses in the region, spanning 15 international markets.

“Majid Al Futtaim Retail acquired 30 stores from Retail Arabia in 2017, 10 of which were in Bahrain under the Géant and Gulf Mart brands,” explains Jerome. “This acquisition has enabled a wider outreach and has further established our positioning as one of the largest grocery retail operators. We are on schedule with the rebranding, and integrating the look and feel of the stores. We will continue to roll out our expansion plan and will announce updates on our milestones in due course.”

34 September 2018

We are pleased to cater to the growing demand and provide our customers with the convenience they seek for their dayto-day shopping.”

On what makes Carrefour a favourite over other similar retailers, Jerome says: “As a Majid Al Futtaim business, we ultimately focus on creating great moments for everyone, every day. For Carrefour this means offering its customers a choice of more than 75,000 food and non-food products as well as its own extensive branded range of more than 1,100 items, and all at competitive prices. We pride ourselves for the freshness and quality produce extending across an array of fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, poultry, fish and baked items, combining both local and imported products. Our Healthy Kitchen offers a wide array of the best health products from organic to free-form, to diet and fitness food at very competitive prices.”

Besides this, the brand’s MyCLUB loyalty programme gives patrons incentives by way of access to exclusive deals and discounts, providing for an unrivalled customer experience. This goes a long way to make it a much-preferred shopping destination.

The 12th and latest outlet is the one at the swanky new Oasis Mall in Juffair. Jerome says: “This store is part of our strategy to get closer to our customers’ doorsteps. We are pleased to cater to the growing demand and provide our customers with the convenience they seek for their day-to-day shopping. Here, one will find a range of food and non-food products. The outlet has been designed with the environment in mind, and includes special freezer cabinets that not only increase food safety, but also reduce power consumption.”

Business-wise, Jerome has had a smooth ride in Bahrain. “We are very grateful for the support and guidance we are getting from the government of Bahrain and the authorities as well as our business partners,” he says. “We are also proud of our team, who take in customer feedback and are committed to consistently provide unmatched customer service to make shopping at Carrefour a great experience.

“We are always looking for opportunities to serve our clients and deliver an unparalleled range of high-quality products at competitive prices that Carrefour customers have come to know and expect.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

In conversation with George F Middleton, Everest Trading’s newest member of the Board of Directors, Masood Jawad, discusses expansion and global outreach plans.

Masood Jawad and Mahdi Jawad

REACHING FOR THE SUMMIT

S

ince its inception in 1990, Everest Trading continues to be the market leader for washroom hygiene and sanitation materials, and cleaning chemical equipment in Bahrain. Founded by Mahdi and Gemma Jawad, Everest Trading welcomes new leadership by way of Masood Jawad, who is joining the Board of Directors.

Under Mahdi Jawad, Everest Trading flourished – meeting all customer demands predominantly in the areas of hospitality, contract cleaning, healthcare and public institutions. As a one-stop solution provider with regard to these areas, the company has been continually developing its services for the customers. With almost 30 years of excellence in the country, Everest Trading is keen on expansion, now with Mahdi and Gemma’s son, Masood, holding the reins.

Masood began his university education in the field of international business in the UK and completed his degree in Bahrain. Having learned the ins and outs of his father’s business, he has many productive plans for Everest Trading. He says: “We, at Everest Trading, are constantly trying to improve and be the best we can be.”

With the aim of global outreach in mind, Everest Trading recently entered into cooperation with INPACS Global Supply Solution, a company that offers a full range of cleaning and hygiene supplies, guest amenities, personal protective and medical equipment to customers.

These added-value services ensure that INPACS’ global corporate customers have an assurance of the highest quality.

36 September 2018

GLOBAL PARTNERS Network

INPACS

Everest Allia

Rapid clean

We, at Everest Trading, are constantly trying to improve and be the best we can be.”

According to Masood, small independent home-grown companies lack real force.

“INPACS consolidates family-owned businesses around the world and gives them an opportunity to rise in the face of corporate giants,” he says. “One of the main advantages of this partnership is that once INPACS has a global contract with a hotel, for example, we

[Everest Trading] will supply them with all their needs. This gives us a competitive advantage over other suppliers.” INPACS also forecasts and strategises to help the business grow.

Everest Trading is optimistic about this affiliation being fruitful in a host of other areas as well, such as gaining access to various international brands, and becoming experts in the field through increased product knowledge and staff training.

Currently only serving the local market, the company’s long-term vision includes expansion in Saudi Arabia, which it deems will be a good location to develop. Everest Trading is the only professional distributor partnered with INPACS in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Masood is especially proud of this fact and hopes to continue his father’s legacy in leading Everest Trading to become the top brand in the Arabian world. www.bahrainthismonth.com

HYGIENE. REDEFINED.

Introducing Vibrating Mesh Technology.

interview

Dr George Cheriyan explains how the American Mission Hospital will be at the forefront of shaping the future of healthcare in the Kingdom.

Dr George Cheriyan

ADNAN SIPRA

HEALTHCARE FOR THE FUTURE

M

ore than a century after having literally broken new ground by becoming the first modern hospital in Bahrain, the American Mission Hospital (AMH) is poised to take the lead again in the shift towards the future concept of healthcare provision.

“We work very closely with the Ministry of Health, the Supreme Council of Health and the National Health Regulatory Authority in providing solutions to healthcare challenges,” says Dr George Cheriyan, AMH’s corporate chief executive officer and chief medical officer. A neonatologist, who spent 18 years working with Saudi Aramco, he has headed AMH since 2009 and overseen a quite dramatic expansion of both physical facilities and community outreach programmes during his nine-year tenure.

With three purpose-built clinics – in Saar, Amwaj Islands and, more recently, Riffa – both supporting, and taking the load off, the hospital’s iconic headquarters in Manama, Dr Cheriyan believes the AMH’s ability to evolve with the times has enabled it to be extremely well prepared for the change that is about to occur in how healthcare is provided to the Kingdom’s citizens. “We have built on the legacy of our past,” he says. “We are creating 38 September 2018

AMH is readying itself for the change that will occur over the next two years.” truly futuristic healthcare through collaborations with other big institutions so that we can significantly enhance our capability of delivering a much higher quality of care.”

He explains that a seismic shift has been occurring not just in Bahrain but the GCC countries, with the payer model in health care shifting to the insurance model, and the government is setting up a social insurance fund. “AMH is readying itself for the change that will occur over the next two years,” he says. “What AMH is doing in Bahrain – and which we’ve done over the last one hundred years – is to essentially partner the government and to complement what the government wants in terms of providing the most optimal care to the people of Bahrain.”

The first step towards achieving that level of preparedness has been the setting up of an IT

platform that seamlessly transports information from the main platform to the subsidiaries. “IT is going to play a big role in creating these systems and augmented AI is going to play a big role in allowing physicians to get better decision support to treat patients,” Dr Cheriyan points out.

“Since tele-medicine, tele-radiology and IT-based apps are going to be significant players in the future of healthcare, AMH is investing heavily into upgrading our IT systems,” he says. “We are close to being paperless in our electronic healthcare records and we will be totally paperless in the next 12 months. All our four centres are IT-linked with each other, as well as our offices in the US, enabling every exchange of information, especially through videoconferencing facilities, to take place in real time.”

Now, as AMH prepares itself for the next stage in its evolution, Dr Cheriyan, a strong proponent of home-based and ambulatory services, stresses that the future concept of healthcare provision is to be more focused on preventive measures and to keep the general population healthy.

“The shift is from sickness care to wellness care,” he says. “The focus is on keeping people healthy.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s new GM, Fares Yactine, shares details of exciting developments and upcoming events at the local favourite.

Fares Yactine

EXCITING TIMES AHEAD

I

understand you’re looking forward to a busy time at The Gulf Hotel. Can you tell us about any refurbishments that are about to be opened to the public?

Following the announcement of the partnership with Michelin-starred chef Giancarlo Perbellini, who is an award-winning, legendary chef and well known in Italian cuisine worldwide, we will relaunch the La Pergola restaurant as ‘La Pergola by Perbellini’. La Pergola has undergone a full renovation with new design, colours and concept and it will be open to the public on September 9. It will be open daily for lunch and dinner from noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm.

La Pergola by Perbellini joins the elite swell of über chic restaurants in Bahrain tagged to a Michelin-starred chef. Headlined by chef Giancarlo Perbellini’s passion for cooking and the legendary Gulf Hotel’s award-winning culinary team, the menu serves revisited classics with a critical focus on purity, quality and freshness. Trendy cocktails and a 125-label grape list will help enhance the dining experience from start to finish.

We will see a lot of chef Perbellini as he likes to be hands-on in everything, from the design to concept and choosing of all equipment. Aside from providing his expertise in setting up and creating the menu, food production and serving standards, chef 40 September 2018

We will also be relaunching the Gulf Convention Centre in September.”

Perbellini brings along his own talented team from Casa Perbellini Milan and Verona, headed by chef Matteo Mezzaro and assisted by chef Nikola Agostini.

Al Waha restaurant is also under renovation and part of its relaunch in September will be the Gulf Grand Brunch. Bahrain’s favourite buffet restaurant is getting bigger and better with extended seating. The new state-of-the-art buffet design boasts temperature-controlled buffet counters, an interactive live kitchen, juice bar, saj bread station and much more.

We will also be relaunching the Gulf Convention Centre in September. There are many venues to conduct meetings and functions but Gulf Hotel Convention Centre is very popular. It has undergone extensive changes, modernisation and refurbishment, which undoubtedly will make it Bahrain’s largest convention centre, catering to up to 1,000 people.

There are also exciting events coming up in the shape of the much-loved Oktoberfest and an appearance from the Rolling Clones tribute band. What can visitors expect at Oktoberfest?

Are there any changes this year?

Oktoberfest is one of The Gulf Hotel’s signature events that has been organised for so many years. What makes it more special is that it will be the first event hosted at the newly renovated Gulf Convention Centre. Oktoberfest will happen on October 4 and will offer a great selection of Bavarian beverages and an authentic Bavarian buffet as well as the Lasterbacher Musikanten Band, who have performed every year since 2004 and play a mix of English and German tunes. The Rolling Clones tribute band will rock and roll at Sherlock Holmes on September 6 and 7.

We also have visits from Michelin-starred chefs Takagi, at Sato from October 24 to 27, and Wout Bru, at Fusions from November 20 to 24. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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interview

The Arch Hotel presents a futuristic exterior but offers traditional hospitality. GM Vijayan Sadanandan told Liz O’Reilly about the new property.

Vijayan Sadanandan

A NEW JUFFAIR LANDMARK

W

ith 117 rooms and suites split over five categories from Premium doubles to Deluxe suites, The Arch, which is part of the Best Western Signature Collection and operated by Sahara for Tourism Co, had its soft opening at the beginning of July, and is already making its mark on the Juffair hospitality scene.

“We have a lot of facilities that set us apart from the rest, such as iPod docks and singleserve Nespresso brewers in the rooms,” says Vijayan, a hospitality veteran who started his career with Marriott Renaissance in India and was in Bahrain from 2002 to 2011 working with such well-known names as the Ramee Group, where he was instrumental is setting up several outlets before relocating to Dubai and later Fujairah for the pre-opening of a large hotel.

He tells me: “My primary passion is food and beverage and I’m very team oriented. I believe in great team work and hands-on floor ops. All the team members have been hand-picked and I give great importance to innovation and creativity across all areas of operations. I’ve always believed that ideas have to come from my ground staff, so, when we implement them, people feel motivated. They come up with ideas that are different because they are with the guests day by day and react to guest feedback.”

Vijayan is also passionate about, and has an in-depth knowledge of, e-commerce, virtual space and social marketing, which he says have been vital in promoting the unique outlets the hotel now boasts such as the TexMex Lounge which will have the Kingdom’s only 42 September 2018

My primary passion is food and beverage and I’m very team oriented.”

country band complete with Texan singer.

There’s also the classy Club 11 (E11even) run

by Manchester club veteran Ian, himself a DJ and all-round entertainer, with resident DJs Mishka, from the US, and MC Dollars, from the UK. Ian will also be overseeing the hotel’s classic pub venue, Fizz, which as well as offering the best in British and American bar

food, has, probably, the island’s biggest HD screen – a massive 15sq/m!

Vijayan adds: “One area in the hotel that every visitor must check out is the Sol Café allday-dining outlet. Its futuristic design is something that’s really making waves; we believe we have the best interiors in the whole of Juffair – and the best buffet.

“And then there’s the Posh Lounge – an Oriental club with a Far Eastern live band serving Oriental food – I believe this is the biggest club of its kind.”

As well as the impressive food and beverage offering, of which Vijayan is justifiably proud, there are plenty of other attractions for guests to enjoy. For the business traveller, there are two meeting rooms with the latest audio-visual facilities, a business centre with high-speed Internet and secretarial services.

The upcoming Cristal Hall will be an elegant banqueting space which can accommodate up to 120 guests for conferences, cocktail receptions, etc. And visitors are also wellserved on the leisure front with a fully equipped health club and gym, with a sauna, pool and boutique spa offering a range of Asian aromatherapy treatments, among others.

Vijayan hopes to make inroads into the corporate sector as well as oil and gas and military visitors and says he is helped in his task by the eye-catching look of the property.

“It’s a beautiful structure and very iconic, so by default it attracts people because of the structure, and it’s already doing well because of the great team we have on board.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Jebin & Agatha

Fiza & Fathul

Zapin Dance Performance As part of the Bahrain Summer Festival, a Malay Zapin Dance performance took place at the Nakhool Tent in Arad Fort.

Performers at the show

Wani, HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & Edry

Legendary Dj Jon White of Bargrooves Sound of Ultra Lounges

Fidi & Salleh

Anuar & Violet

Mathew & Litty

Zura & Hafiz

Ahmed & Mariam

Caribbean Dj Mishka MC-Model ‘ Miss Freedom of the World 2014

Arch Hotel, BW Signature Collection by Best Western. Building 1118, Road 2419, Block 324, Juair,Bahrain. Tel: 17116611 www.archhotelbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2018 43

interview

Hemant Joshi

International trainer in Neuro-linguistic Programming, Hemant Joshi, tells Behnaz Sanjana how life can be turned around for the better by just harnessing the infinite powers of the human mind.

MIND OVER MATTER

H

emant Joshi, director at Abdulla Nass Group and Nass Corporation, has been with the conglomerate ever since he came to Bahrain 23 years ago. He is the first Indian to be appointed to the board of a publicly listed Bahraini company and has been honoured as the chief financial officer of the Middle East for the year 2015 by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England.

A regionally acclaimed author and professional speaker, he is also an internationally accredited trainer in Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP).

“I came away impressed and fascinated by the concept of NLP at a seminar in London in the ‘90s,” says Hemant. “I went on to complete the practitioner’s and master’s courses. On gaining sufficient knowledge and expertise in the subject, I completed the trainer’s programme. I studied under Richard Badler himself, the father of NLP.” Since then, Hemant has conducted over 150 workshops, free of cost in the GCC and India, as a way of community service.

Explaining the concept, he says: “NLP has three aspects to it. Neuro refers to the nervous system and the mind, linguistic is the language patterns one uses to communicate [with the outside world as well as internally], and programming relates to conditioning your mind.

We are all conditioned since childhood, by the influences of our parents, peers, teachers and culture. We develop set habits and ways of thinking, and we respond and react accordingly. It becomes our core that we think is unchangeable. But NLP can change this 44 September 2018

There is no good or bad memory, only a trained or untrained one.” programming for our betterment, by way of our five senses. It enables us to respond to life’s varied situations in an ideal manner.”

This is a science and an art that has many modules, and applies to personal and professional life. It enables one to filter information in a rational manner, to respond appropriately. “It has a lot of applications in the corporate field – it teaches negotiation skills and enhances productivity and motivation,” adds Hemant. “On a personal front, it’s a powerful branch of psychology that can effectively erase unpleasant memories, negative beliefs, anxieties and phobias in real time.”

He attributes his own professional success to this concept, saying: “NLP allows for better interaction with different types of people; seeing things with a higher perspective; expressing your disagreements in a suitable way; giving the benefit of doubt and creating strong rapports with our associates. It helps students and professionals to deal with difficult individuals, handle inadequacies,

rejections and obstacles and also set goals and achieve results.”

Of late, Hemant has been engrossed in a different mind concept – that of memory. He explains that it’s not a matter of being a genius, but of skill, and has nothing to do with how intelligent one is. He says: “There is no good or bad memory, only a trained or untrained one.

Certain techniques can help to remember big chunks of data – even whole dictionaries or religious scriptures. The key is how you code information as pictures and images, making it easy for the brain to retrieve it.

“I want to spread this awareness amongst school and college-going children because, with this kind of training, one can do wonders with just 10 to 15 minutes of daily practice. The method uses our ability of mental imaging, similar to techniques of NLP. So, it’s easy for me to explain this notion to people.”

Hemant has been training under memory grandmasters Alex Mullen and Florian Dellé, and refers to himself as a memory enthusiast.

As with NLP, he does free workshops on memory training, time permitting. He says: “My professional work doesn’t leave me much free time, but I am happy to share my knowledge with others. The feedback received is so satisfying. People tell me that it has enriched their lives and empowered them to deal with situations better. It’s all in the mind. You are what you think you are. All the resources required to be the best are within us. If only we knew this, how different life would be!” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Talabat and Camaro Prize Shout Out

To view more images, scan the QR code

Talabat hosted a shout out event announcing its Order and Win Chevrolet Camaros prize campaign at the National Motors Company in Sitra.

Talabat officials and media at the event

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Arch Hotel, BW Signature Collection by Best Western. Building 1118,Road 2419,Block 324,Juffair,Bahrain. Tel: 17116611 www.archhotelbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2018 45

interview

Musical medic Dr Hazem Al Rawas tells Liz O’Reilly about his journey from his Syrian homeland to the musical scene of Bahrain.

Dr Hazem Al Rawas

THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC

W

hen you spot Hazem entertaining at one of the Bahrain nightspots where he regularly plays guitar, it’s easy to be transported away by the sounds of his rich and heady mix of Andalusian rhythms coupled with Arabic and Turkish influences.

The base of Flamenco, which he learned as a teen, is unmistakable but your mind and ears will become enthralled working out what else you can hear, not necessarily paying too much attention to the musician who’s producing this glorious noise.

But behind Hazem’s easy smile and hugely talented hands lies quite a story. Now 31, and originally from Damascus, he left his home to study medicine in Lebanon at the American University of Beirut. But when the War broke out in 2006, the situation became precarious and he was forced to leave.

He says: “I was looking at options and, through the culture and reputation, I decided on the RCSI Bahrain. I graduated in 2012 and, I must admit, during my university years I didn’t really focus on the guitar. I did go along to talent nights just to jam but I wasn’t making my own music.

“To be honest, I always loved medicine. I wanted a way to give back and help people and my father was the one who fostered this in me.

From a very young age, I would always have science books, skeletons and a stethoscope.”

46 September 2018

I wanted a way to give back and help people and my father was the one who fostered this in me.”

He is extremely grateful to Bahrain for giving him the chance to continue his medical qualifications and now considers the island home. For Hazem, the Kingdom is a source of inspiration in both cultural and artistic fields.

For this reason music was always in the background and now, after several years working in medicine, he is keen to get back to his musical roots.

Still keen on helping, though, he sees it as a kind of therapy, explaining: “My way of approaching it is that my talents are a gift from God and I’m very thankful that, as a doctor and as a musician, I can reach people’s hearts and deliver a message of happiness, positivity and inspiration. Whatever challenges you face, you have to believe that you can overcome them and that you’re special.”

For the next few months he’ll be playing regular sessions at Play, Oliveto and Upstairs Downstairs, concentrating on his musical career as he makes plans to join his brothers in Europe to specialise in internal medicine.

He concludes: “I want to improve myself and share my music with people. I’m so grateful that the style I’ve developed has been well received; the love has been amazing. The future is both medicine and music – both are very important to me. I’ve been getting requests from DJs and producers to play with them, which is something new that I’m enjoying. I’m just really happy and grateful to be able to keep developing in two areas that I love.”

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bystander

Retnani & HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo

Eid Celebration The Palestinian Ambassador hosted an Eid Open House at his residence with his family, delegates and guests.

HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir & Rihab with Rania, Reine, Mahmoud & Taha HE Suha Ibrahim Al Far & Sharif

Guests at the event

Rihab & HE Nor Huda

Mustafa & HE Anwar Alabdulla

Dr Moaman

Guests at the event

HE Dr Milad Nammour

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, HE CĂŠcile Longe, Mamta & HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir

Reine, Rihab, Nahed & Nour

Jamal

HE Simon Martin

48 September 2018

Guests at the event

Anne, Rihab & Wani

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Adventure Hub Opening HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa inaugurated Adventure Hub in Galleria Mall.

Management and family members also attended the event.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa doing the ribbon-cutting ceremony

Mohammed Dadabhai & HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa & management

On a tour in Adventure Hub

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HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa viewing the many activities

Birthday Dinner Shirley hosted Anne Hearn’s birthday with dinner and cocktails on Assayel yacht.

Rupert, Anne, Robbie, Ian, Shirley & Dick

LAMDA Speech & Drama - Vocal Training - Band Program Musical Instrumental Programs for all ages - Trinity Exams Art & Craft - Aural & Musicianship - Musical Theatre Robbie, Rupert, Shirley, Dick, Anne & Ian

50 September 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

21yearsofBTM

Your Guide to a Great Way of Life This month marks 21 years since Bahrain This Month (BTM) first brought its unique blend of events, interviews, news and the all-important picture pages to a receptive audience. As Bahrain’s first English language magazine, BTM set about talking to the Kingdom’s movers and shakers, rounding up news and happenings across the island and attending, and photographing, gatherings both big and small.

Over the years BTM has spawned several sister publications, from Woman This Month, Bahrain’s only English women’s monthly, to the range of guides covering the food and beverage industry, health and wellbeing, education and motoring, which we print each year.

And, of course, these days the print edition is backed up by a comprehensive digital offering.

We are a multi-platform publisher covering print, native magazine websites and interactive digital editions via email and WhatsApp. Over the following pages, we revisit a few of the high points over our long history. And, of course, Bahrain This Month remains ‘Your Guide to a Great Way of Life’.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2018 51

21yearsofBTM

The Early Years

The first issue, in September 1997, arrived somewhat later than planned due to the inevitable technical glitches which still dog publishers the world over to this day. But with bona fide superstars on the cover, in the shape of visiting Irish boy band, Boyzone, and 80 pages of features and information about the Kingdom, including a write-up on BJ’s (Barnaby Joe’s) which later gave rise to JJ’s, BTM was on a roll.

That first issue also carried a section that was to prove pivotal in the magazine’s success and popularity – a double-page-spread of just eight pictures, with very lengthy captions, at page four, which asked ‘Are You a Bystander?’ And, on that score, the rest, as they say, is history. By the time we reached our record-breaking 200th edition in April 2014, Bystander amounted to more than 600 pictures over 38 pages!

Less than two years on, publisher George Middleton and his team put together an edition that brought great sadness. Bahrain’s beloved Emir, Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, passed away suddenly on March 6, 1999, and BTM produced a heartfelt tribute. George, who had met the long-reigning ruler the previous year, wrote: “Shaikh Isa, our King of Hearts for these past 38 years, best embodied the ideals and aspirations of this society. But, from the moment I heard of the death of Shaikh Isa

bin Salman my world stopped, and I found myself among the throng of mourners who accompanied this humble, greatly admired leader to his final resting place, and the simple prose came to mind which is imprinted on the cover of this Bahrain This Month.” That prose read: “In strength there is gentleness and in gentleness there is strength.”

Back in Time - Bahrain This Month’s 100th Issue Party

Throwback to 2006, Red House Marketing, publisher of Bahrain This Month, hosted a spectacular gala dinner to celebrate the 100th issue at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Fariza & Sean Warren with Sheila, Vijay & Bharti

Sadiq Diwani, Ebrahim Al Ameer & Fatima

Arthur D’Souza with Lisa Morgan

52 September 2018

Jill Cowley & Bernadette

Rashida & Hussain Tadayon

JP Faberij de Jonge & Bharat Jashanmal

Ala’a Al Zayani & Hassan Mokdad

Carla & Fuad Saliba, Adnan & Faye Sharabi

Faiza & Rehan Khan

Tariq Wafa & Mazen Al Umran

www.bahrainthismonth.com

21yearsofBTM

Momentous Occasions Month (WTM), which had been introduced as a We celebrated the new millennium in January special supplement the previous November.

2000 by looking ahead to 2025 through the eyes WTM would, of course, later become a of business and community leaders, including magazine in its own right. And in March BTM Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa, Mohamed offered congratulations to His Majesty King Buzizi, Mohammed Dadabhai, Sabah AlMoayyed and Bharat Jashanmal. Perhaps we Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al should revisit that feature to discover how Khalifa, His Highness the Crown Prince, Shaikh close we are to their predictions.

In the year 2000 we also launched the Bahrain Hotel & Restaurant Guide, which is still going strong today.

The year 2002 was a good one, both for our publisher, Red House Marketing, and for Bahrain. In January it was e King lifa ajesty th Al Kha His M announced that BTM bin Isa Hamad h ik a h S would henceforth include Woman This 00 BD 1.5

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Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, and the people and residents of Bahrain on the declaration of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

In 2004 the island geared up for a little something called the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The populace went crazy and so did we with 16 pages of photographic coverage from the event and the surrounding parties as well as interviews, spotlights and more.

December 2005 saw BTM’s 100th issue and, in true Red House style, we threw a party! With the great and the good (and plenty of not so great and definitely not good), we danced and sang the night away. And, once recovered, we got ready for the next 100.

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September 2018 53

21yearsofBTM

Stars Come Calling

18 Years of Publishing 10 Years of Racing 4 Years of Expos

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

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Your Guide To A Great Way Of

Life

January 2010 ~ Vol. 14 ~ Issue 1

Wings of Eagles Bahrain Air Show

April 2014 ~ Vol. 18

~ Issue 4

Up Where We Belong Samer Majali

#1 September 1997

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

#50 October 2001

Interviews

Lifestyle

#100 December 2005

Dining

#150 October 2010

Featured This Month

Autumn Fair Gulf Industry Fair Women in Business

DARK ~ SAT TV CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER HAPPENINGS ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~

Nightlife

Spring of Culture was launched in March 2006.

The annual festival brings artists and performers from across the globe to our island.

We devoted three pages of coverage to the first events and, since then, the scope of the festival has grown so much that it now takes up twice that space and runs over two months!

In the same month BTM also highlighted Amwaj Islands, the up-and-coming new investment development.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

In 2008, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa launched his 2030 Economic Vision, setting out a raft of development goals for the coming decades. That year’s BTM annual review and several of the subsequent interviews with members of the business elite examined the plans in greater detail. The year 2008 also saw the launch of the award-winning Bahrain World Trade Centre and, of course, we were there.

The Kingdom was flying high in 2010 with the

inaugural Bahrain International Airshow.

Several years in the planning, the gala event saw millions of dollars-worth of deals signed and visitors were treated to stunning flying displays with great entertainment, all captured

by BTM’s photographers.

In 2012 the visit of opera superstar Andrea Bocelli was a highlight of the Spring of Culture.

And another long-standing project came to fruition with the opening of the stunning Bahrain National Theatre under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in November. With 1,001 seats, representing the tales of 1,001 Arabian Nights, it is one of the largest theatres in the Arab world. It has since hosted a raft of big-name acts from Placido Domingo to legendary composer Yanni and opera quartet Il Divo.

In April 2014, BTM reached its milestone 200th edition and, you guessed it, there was one heck of a party. This was also the month that we marked 10 years of the Grand Prix with a major supplement and presence, as always, at the track.

Back in Time - Bahrain This Month’s 100th Issue Party

Throwback to 2006, Red House Marketing, publisher of Bahrain This Month, hosted a spectacular gala dinner to celebrate the 100th issue at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Dr Jack Shaheen & Dr Paul Balles

Joyce Boswell wonders when Ozzy ‘Geg’ Osbourne is going to “Bark at the moon”

Carla & Rodolphe Melki

Shaikh Bader

Madeleine & Michel Zabe Bala & Salma

George Middleton RHM Chairman & Dr Dhafer Al Umran unveil the 100th issue watched by Marilyn “Thavey” Monroe and a Charlie Chaplin lookalike

54 September 2018

Kevin & Wendy

Adrine Katchudurian

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Into the Future In recent years Bahrain has continued to grow, both physically and culturally. There are new developments at Diyar Month Al Muharraq and Durrat Al is Th in ra ah lement by B Bahrain, to name just two.

A Special Supp New hotels open regularly and on the social scene we saw the arrival of Trib Fest in 2015 and Bahrain International Jazz Festival in 2017. Meanwhile, 2016 was a bumper year for events and BTM special supplements with BH-UK 200 marking 200 years of diplomatic relations between Bahrain and the UK. The last few years have certainly been challenging for all in the media industry across the island and the wider region. But, here at Bahrain This Month, we’ve held our nerve and can say for sure that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

We have become a multi-platform publisher with print, native November 2016

21yearsofBTM

magazine websites, including the unique, comprehensive events calendar at www.bahrainthismonth.com where events are promoted free, and interactive digital editions via email and WhatsApp supported by social media platforms.

We are one of the first magazines in Bahrain to be on Pinterest and we introduced an innovative feature allowing Instagram followers to read our articles within the platform itself by clicking Read Insta Stories in our bio link.

With Saudi Arabia opening up as never before, we’re also expanding our reach across the causeway and will soon be producing a Saudicentric section in BTM online.

Our owner and publisher, George Middleton, has been in Bahrain for 39 years and feels we are heading towards some of the most exciting times he has seen. He says: “Our industry and Bahrain itself have changed beyond recognition since we started 21 years ago. We would ignore the digital revolution at our peril. Instead, we’ve grasped it and now have a full digital team creating top-notch content, including digital assets and videos, and keeping our readers informed about the latest events and what’s happening in Bahrain and around the world.

“We give equal emphasis to print and digital offering a seamless experience to our readers from offline to online.

“As we celebrate our 21st birthday, I truly believe we are in a better position than at any time since the boom years of the early 2000s. The market is starting to recover and is ready for the digital revolution.”

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September 2018 55

Back in Time – Bahrain This Month’s 200th issue In 2014, Red House Marketing celebrated the milestone of 200 issues of Bahrain This Month by hosting the Citi Life Maison Rouge Gala Dinner & Theatre Spectacular at The Gulf Hotel’s Gulf Convention Centre.

Priya, Anil, Nicolas & Gina

Mohammed

Elveira, Pascal, Jaap & Wendy

Hussain & Rashida

Steven & Megan

Shirley & Dick

Pauline, Lauren, Marie & Eric

Barbara & George Chintu, Vijay & Bharti

Ron & Garfield

Filippo & Cristina

HE Thomas Krajeski (former) US Ambassador, Mrs Juma, HE Abdulla Juma & Bonnie Krajeski

Anne, Andrea, Gigi, George, Lucy & Ronnie at the cake-cutting

Heather & Janet

Judith & Faisal

56 September 2018

George & Imran Al Aradi

Steve

Marise & Lalit

Navneet Kampani & George

Dr Essa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mohammed Jalal & Sons

We congratulate Red House Marketing on the 21st anniversary of the publication of Bahrain This Month Magazine

Looking forward to your continued success for many years to come

Diplomatic Area, Falcon Tower, P.O. Box: 113 Manama mjsga@batelco.com.bh (+973) 1753 3311 (+973) 1753 2335 www.jalal.com

21yearsofBTM

MEGA MART

First Choice For Excellence As Mega Mart heads towards a quarter century of operations, the supermarket is still a firm favourite.

58 September 2018

With a huge range of fresh produce, international brands and a wide variety of ongoing promotions, Mega Mart has come a long way since it opened its first store, called Babasons, back in 1994.

The company, which also operates Macro Mart and Babasons, now has 12 branches across the Kingdom in Salmaniya, Hamad Town, Lulu Centre Manama, Juffair, Muharraq, Segaya, Galali and Amwaj Islands as well as express stores at Abraaj Al Lulu, Riffa and Saar and the newest store in Budaiya.

From small beginnings, Mega Mart has built its reputation as one of Bahrain’s most popular shopping destinations, by offering a wide range of the finest products displayed in an international-style setting.

Fresh fruit and vegetables abound and there are dedicated counters for cheeses, fresh fish and meats as well as many marinated meats to take the effort out of home cooking.

The Segaya, Muharraq and Riffa stores boast wonderful Indian chat corners and, for those seeking healthier meal options, Amwaj and Segaya also have a salad counter offering a huge variety of more than 50 items to choose from as well as a fresh juices counter.

One of the chain’s most popular options is the hot food counter which is available at Riffa and Amwaj Islands and has just launched in Segaya offering delicious Indian and Filipino dishes.

Never slow with innovation, the company also offers peanut and almond butter freshly made in-store as well as its own unique hazelnut chocolate spread.

Across its branches, Mega Mart is famous for its in-house bakery items, including breads, cakes,

pastries and savouries, which are a great favourite with customers both local and expat alike.

And a great range of international names such as Tesco own-brand goods, Natco, Ocean Spray, John West and more are a draw for those seeking a taste of home.

Over the years Mega Mart has always prided itself on providing on great value as well as the highest standards of customer care, so much so that should you require an item that’s not on the shelves, managers are happy to order it and contact you once it arrives!

All this, coupled with regular money-saving promotions, special monthly mega deals and weekend promotions ensures customers come back time and again to enjoy a welcoming shopping experience where they can be assured of both great service and great value.

Call 17 341-070. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Where everybody shops !!!

A guaranteed total family shopping experience with our extensive assortment of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products and meat, along with a widespread selection of garments, electronics, household products, gifts and more...

An extensive range of fresh produce

21st Anniversary The Best of Bystander

Over the years we’ve attended numerous events from official happenings and openings to parties and balls. Enjoy a selection of some of the best pictures.

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa presents Yusuff Ali, managing director of Lulu Group, with Wessam Al Bahrain (Medal of Bahrain – Order of the King) during a function held at the Royal Palace in Manama as part of Bahrain’s 43rd National Day celebrations

The Khalifa bin Salman Port was opened by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at a ceremony attended by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Deputy Supreme Commander

A triad of leading trade shows – the gulfBID, Gulf Property Show and gulfInteriors – were officially inaugurated by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa

HE Balkrishna Shetty, (former) Indian Ambassador & his wife Vasundhara Shetty hosted a reception to celebrate India’s 58th Republic Day.

The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Bahrain hosted a reception on the occasion of the 70th Anniversary of the United Nations

Shaikh Salman & Marwa at the ‘Irresistable India’ Charity Gala Dinner

HE Alfonso A Ver, Philippine Ambassador, hosted the 50th Anniversary of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) at the Gulf Convention Centre

Belles of the Bahrain Irish Society’s St Patrick’s Day Ball

60 September 2018

Mariana, Alina, Indira & Dina at the Bahrain Boat Show International

www.bahrainthismonth.com

His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa with BTM photographer, Ranjith, at the Bahrain International Circuit

Doris, HE Taha Mohammed A Qadir, HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran & Shaikha Rana Al Khalifa at the 10th Bahrain Universities Model United Nations (BUMUN) conference

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Eva Marie, Maria, Juliana, Christiana, Anita & Claudia at an annual grand Italian Ball

Anisa Dadabhai, Mala Kumar & Shaikha Hind Al Khalifa at the Bahrain India Society welcome dinner

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Diplomats and artists at ‘Irresistable India’ Charity Gala Dinner

September 2018 61

www.bahrainthismonth.com JO3897_BFC_FX_Generic_Ad_125mmX94mm.indd 1

8/20/18 9:41 AM

bystander

Farewell Party George and Anne hosted a farewell party for Mehdi, Kholi and Javan.

Muna & Wani

Anil, Karina, Kholi, Wani, Mehdi & Javan

Gerry & Anne

Farewell Party Wani hosted a farewell party for Mehdi & Kholi.

Kholi, Wani & Nahid

Sally, Leeza, Azwina, Deanna, Retnani, Sameera, Wani, Kholi, Asha, Nabeela, Nahid & Yasmin

Farewell Party Asha hosted a farewell party for Mehdi & Kholi.

Svetlana, Nabeela, Retnani, Kholi, Asha, Wani, Deanna & Anne

House Warming Dinner Zee Bassila hosted a house warming dinner at his residence.

Zee, Anna, Steve & Aisling

Anthony, Steve & George

62 September 2018

Wani, Nabeela, Edry, Kholi, Asha, Svetlana & Gigi

To view more images, scan the QR code Rene, Yana & Zee

Zee & Umssiah

Ekaterina & Zee

Aisling, Anna, Steve & Umssiah

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ladies, allow yourselves to be inspired!

Orsay, the German brand, introduces its new collection. Nothing is better than looking gorgeous with this aaordable fashion. Get your Orsay outďŹ t and stand out.

The new collection is available at Orsay City Centre Bahrain +973 17581569

bystander

Christopher and Lucy’s Wedding Former Bahrain residents Christopher and Lucy tied the knot in Cyprus and celebrated with family and friends from all over the world.

Christopher & Lucy

Chris & Lucy

Apple & Matt

The wedding party

Tony, Judy, Christopher, Lucy, Janet & Chris

Phoebe, Charlie, Sienna, Lucy, Laura, Kirsty, Apple & Amanda

Hannah, Roger, Frannie & Melissa

64 September 2018

Andrew, Laura & Imogen

Sven, Gordon, Edith & Finn

Linda & Ken

Sue & Greg

Sven, Matt, Kristian, Kingsley, Finn, Christopher, Gordon, Adam, Chris, Andreas & Tony

www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertorial

The Master Origin Collection from Nespresso Five new taste sensations mastered by craftsmen, inspired by the land.

What happens when five incredible landscapes come together with five specialised processes, all orchestrated hand in hand with local coffee farming experts? The result is the new Master Origin collection from Nespresso – five distinct coffee sensations all inspired by the land.

The Nespresso coffee experts scoured the world to discover the finest coffee sourcing regions, from the forested mountains of Sumatra through to the highland vales of Nicaragua. Within each selected region, Nespresso formed a partnership with the local farming experts and embarked on a mission to test innovative and demanding farming practices, all with the goal of crafting incredible new coffee aromas and tastes.

In Ethiopia, the coffee beans had a meticulous raking every hour by hand to ensure even drying. In Colombia, the typical harvest time was pushed to the limit – each coffee cherry was left on the tree, risking fermentation, until it was exactly the right shade of deep purple to be picked. Over in Sumatra, Indonesia, farmers used a traditional and exceptionally local wet-hulling method, whilst in Nicaragua, a sweet approach was taken, using the ‘black honey’ method which involves leaving the coffee bean in its natural fruit layer while it is drying, allowing it to soak up the natural sugars. The coffee sourced in India experienced an age-old ‘monsoon’ www.bahrainthismonth.com

technique that was once a natural occurrence when coffee, transported via boat, took on a high level of moisture from the ocean, making the beans swell and reveal a unique new flavour. For the Master Origin India, this process was brought into the 21st century and Robusta beans were ‘monsooned’ rather than the more typical Arabica.

Master Origin Indonesia Flavour profile: Rich and woody Processing technique: Wet hulling The constant humidity in Sumatra has led farmers to hull their beans when still wet, creating a distinctly rich, velvety texture and wild, woody taste.

Master Origin Ethiopia Flavour profile: Flowery and bright Processing technique: Natural dry processing The local farmers in Ethiopia have perfected the ancient dry-processing technique over many years, drying their whole coffee cherries in the highland sun to cultivate delicate fruity flavours.

Master Origin India Flavour profile: Intense and spicy Processing technique: Monsoon The powerful wet monsoon winds sweep into India’s Malabar coasts for months. Our

partner farmers harness their power to cultivate a coffee of incredible intensity.

Master Origin Nicaragua Flavour profile: Sweet and harmonious Processing technique: Black honey In the highland vales of Nicaragua, our black honey coffee is hand raked every hour under the hot sun to absorb the sweet flavours from its fruit.

Master Origin Colombia Flavour profile: Fruity and vibrant Processing technique: Late harvest We introduced the late-harvest technique to the high forests and rolling hills of Colombia.

The coffee is left to mature on the branch much later and, with each new day that dawns, each individual cherry must be assessed and picked only if it’s perfectly ready.

Each of the Master Origin coffees can be enjoyed as an Espresso (40ml) or as a Lungo (110ml) and they will be a permanent addition. The Nespresso Master Origin coffee range will be available from September 6, 2018, and can be purchased from Nespresso Boutique, Level 1 Bahrain City Centre, Nespresso Booth, Gate 5, Seef Mall. Call Customer Care Tollfree 80 001-999 or visit www.buynespresso.com/bh/en September 2018 65

MOTORING

this month Ford Mustang

Monkeemobile

Aston Martin DB5

Magnum, P.I.

A Model of Success, p68

My Life in Cars

Back-to-school Deal, p70

DICK POTTER

Open-Top Roadster, p70

A New Era of Design, p71

View more info online

66 September 2018

Apart from cars, one of my favourite pastimes is watching the box. None of that ‘soap opera’ stuff for me though; movies or a good TV series are right up my street.

Given the toasty temperatures of the last few weeks, there’s little to do but watch the box – the missus would probably argue otherwise – but I digress. Having watched more than my fair share of Netflix recently, I got to thinking. What movie and indeed TV show didn’t have a nice set of wheels in it? Not just any old banger, now, but a memorable set of wheels? Well, for what it’s worth, here’s my pick of TV-with-a-memorable-set-of-wheels.

In Magnum, P.I. (you just knew I would put Ferrari up first, didn’t you?), Tom Selleck's character, Thomas Magnum, didn’t evoke much envy from me with the gaudy array of shirts he sported, nor his moustache for that matter. I was, however, extremely envious that he drove around Hawaii in a 1978 Ferrari 308 GTS. On top of that he got paid for it. And in the 1986 film Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Matthew Broderick's character Ferris Bueller convinces Cameron Frye, played by Alan Ruck, to take his father's prized 1961 Ferrari 250 GT on a road trip after they called in sick to school.

The beginning of James Bond's car gadgets came in 1964 with the Aston Martin DB5 as 007's ride in Goldfinger. This beauty had an ejector seat, machine guns, smoke screen, wheel shredder and a rear bullet shield. It also had a futuristic map (hello GPS) Bond could use to navigate the streets. Did you know the cars from the movie are so in demand that one sold for USD4.6 million in 2010? I had the Corgi version!

While James Bond has had a number of memorable

cars to drive, perhaps none was more memorable than the 1977 Lotus Esprit that Roger Moore drove in the 1977 film The Spy Who Loved Me. This was primarily because this car could turn into a submarine – well of course it could! (Eye roll.)

A Ford Mustang was the set of wheels used by Steve McQueen as he ‘drove’ around the streets of San Francisco eluding baddies in the 1968 film Bullitt.

1985's Back to the Future told the tale of Marty McFly, played by Michael J Fox, who travels back to 1955 thanks to a time machine made out of a 1981 DeLorean. Whilst this Northern Ireland car was only, interestingly, produced from 1981 to 1983, it became synonymous with the eventual movie trilogy.

1968's The Love Bug centred on Herbie, a 1963 VW Beetle with a mind of its own that ends up in the hands of a race car driver named Jim Douglas, played

by Dean Jones. The car also appeared in 1997's sequel, and 2005's Herbie: Fully Loaded, which starred Lindsay Lohan.

Combining music with a TV show, who remembers The Monkees? The show ran from 1966 to 1968, and Davy Jones and the other three Monkees drove a customised 1966 Pontiac GTO known as the ‘Monkeemobile’.

On a more recent level and giving a nod to one of my new favourite models, Audi, Robert Downey Jr's Tony Stark drives a 2008 Audi R8 in the original Iron Man movie. There were also a number of other cars featured from the German manufacturer, and Audis also appear prominently in the film's 2010 and 2013 sequels.

So, there you have it. I may even have given you a few movies to watch!

You got a favourite car in a movie? Drop me a line.

Email dick@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Breakfast Event Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa hosted a breakfast to commemorate the Indian Independence day at its premises.

Management and staff at the event

Priya & Princy

Tanvi, Kumar & Harsha

Kim, Paul, Vinny, Anna & Rhona

To view more images, scan the QR code

Unnati, Rahul, Dolma & Sony

Adel, Sophia, George, Sarfraz & Mohammed

www.jfcbahrain.com

68 September 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring BEHBEHANI BROTHERS: PORSCHE

A Model of Success

Porsche Macan’s performance and everyday practicality has impressed customers right from its debut. It continues the trend with the new Macan, the model remaining as the sporty flagship in its segment.

Porsche has unveiled the new version of its compact SUV. The Macan has been a great success since its launch in 2014, and has now been enhanced in terms of design, comfort, connectivity and driving dynamics. Staying true to the Porsche design DNA, the new Macan has an even sportier and modern appearance, thanks to a number of changes to the exterior.

The most striking innovations inside the vehicle include the 11-inch touchscreen of the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM), redesigned and repositioned air vents and the GT sports steering wheel. The vehicle’s range of comfort equipment has also been expanded to include an ioniser and windscreen heating.

Dynamic Exterior Numerous details of the new model reflect the DNA of the iconic 911 and the 918 Spyder sports cars, including headlights featuring LED technology as standard. The Macan’s highquality lighting system, which features modules with a three-dimensional design, can be further optimised with the Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS+) that adaptively controls light distribution. The front end of the vehicle has also been meticulously reworked, with it now appearing wider, while the comprehensive overhaul at the rear builds on the sleek design of the previous model. The three-part, threedimensional LED light strip at the rear represents another typical Porsche design feature, with the four-point design of the brake lights reflecting the brand’s identity. www.bahrainthismonth.com

New Options The new Macan’s link to the 911 is further emphasised in the interior with the optional GT sports steering wheel. The mode switch plus Sport Response Button integrated into the steering wheel is also showcased as part of the optional Sports Chrono Package. Porsche has extended the list of comfort options to include a heated windscreen and an ioniser to improve the interior air quality. The Macan is now more customisable than ever before, with new exterior colours such as Miami Blue, Mamba Green Metallic, Dolomite Silver Metallic and Crayon, combined with new interior packages.

Full Connectivity Through the new Porsche Communication Management, the Macan offers total connectivity and enables access to new digital functions, such as intelligent voice control.

Above the typical Porsche rising centre console, a full-HD touchscreen – enlarged from seven to 11 inches – has been incorporated seamlessly into the newly designed instrument panel. Similar to the Panamera and Cayenne, the user interface on the infotainment system can be customised using predefined tiles. The air vents have also been redesigned and are now positioned below the central screen. Each Macan is equipped with a Connect Plus module, making every vehicle fully networked as standard. Using the new Offroad Precision App, it is also possible to record and analyse off-road driving experiences.

Optimised Chassis Thanks to its optimised chassis, the new Macan is able to consolidate its exceptional status as a sports car in the compact SUV segment. Fine-tuning of the chassis delivers

enhanced neutrality while maintaining stability and improving comfort. Although unusual for the SUV segment, the Macan still features mixed tyres with different widths on the front and rear axles. As with Porsche sports cars, this arrangement enables the driver to take full advantage of the intelligent, all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM), when it comes to driving dynamics. Newly developed tyres with improved performance characteristics enable even better lateral dynamics for enhanced driving pleasure, while the new 20- and 21-inch wheels also offer greater scope to customise the design.

Success Model The Macan is a genuine success story, with more than 350,000 units delivered since 2014.

With over 100,000 deliveries to date, the model is especially popular in the Chinese market where Porsche unveiled the redesigned compact SUV. The version of the model presented in Shanghai will be offered exclusively in the Chinese market. A range of Macan derivatives will be launched for other regions in due course.

Visit Porsche Centre Bahrain in Sitra for more information.

Call 17 459-911.

September 2018 69

motoringnews&launches

Back-to-School Deal Al Haddad Motors is offering the Mercedes-Benz Vito tourer at BD16,995, with an additional financial incentive of BD1,000 cash back to get you ready for the upcoming academic year.

Being the ideal family vehicle, equipped with high-rated safety packages, comfort and entertainment features that transform long, tedious rides into entertaining ones, the Mercedes-Benz Vito Tourer can also be leased at a starting rate of BD349 per month.

It features a remarkable exterior with powerful-looking radiator grille and a dynamic arrow-shaped bonnet, and is also equipped with LED Intelligent Light System.

Its impressive spacious interior has comfortable driver and passenger seats and multiple rear seat configurations that can be easily altered.

The offer is valid till the end of September.

A Hi-Tech Concept Car Having premiered at Pebble Beach Automotive Week in California recently, the allelectric Audi PB18 e-tron presents a radical vision for the high-performance sports car of tomorrow. Broad and flat, visibly inspired by the wind tunnel and the racetrack, its very presence signals that it is destined to push boundaries.

A single seater designed as a radical driving machine for the racetrack and road, the AUDI PB18 e-tron shares technological DNA with the successful LMP1 racing car Audi R18 e-tron. With an interior developed around the ideal driver’s position in the centre, Audi aims to offer the driver an experience that is otherwise available only in a racing car like the Audi R18.

The concept uses three powerful electric motors – one up front and two in the rear, each directly driving one wheel via half-shafts, thereby focusing on powerful performance and maximum efficiency. Drawing inspiration from motorsport, dynamics and emotion top its list of specifications.

Open-Top Roadster

The Munich-based premium carmaker presented the exclusive BMW Z4 M40i First Edition to the world for the first time at Pebble Beach, Monterey, California. The redefined roadster includes body paintwork in Frozen Orange metallic, sophisticated design and equipment features.

The central sitting position for the driver, the low centre of gravity, perfectly balanced 50:50 axle load distribution, wide tracks and a compact wheelbase form the ideal prerequisites for inspiringly agile handling and intense driving pleasure.

The BMW Z40i leaves no doubt about its dynamic potential, boasting an extremely powerful 250kW/340hp, straight six-cylinder engine and a sports suspension with electronically controlled dampers, M Sport braking system, and an electronically controlled M Sport differential in the rear axle transmission. The BMW M Performance automobile takes a mere 4.6 seconds to sprint from a standstill to 100km/h.

With dynamic proportions, emotional design and fascinating sportiness, the open-top two-seater makes this a truly covetable roadster.

70 September 2018

A Striking Transformation Starting out as a sports sedan in the ‘80s, the Mitsubishi Eclipse has undergone a transformative journey through the years, resulting in the prominent SUV that is Eclipse Cross.

The premium Red Diamond exterior is sharp, with sculpted lines that give the car a strong stance, drawing the eye to its sleek dynamicity. The SUV features an agile shield face, Hi-Tech lighting design, a distinctive rear shape, in addition to 18-inch alloy wheels. Every element emphasises its brilliant detail-oriented Japanese craftsmanship.

The roomy interior prioritises convenience, with lush leather upholstery, adjustable seats and refined finishes. The cockpit has all its functions within clear vision and reach, including display audio, electric parking brake and full-colour head-up display.

Cruise control, new downsizing turbo technology and highly efficient powertrains contribute to a safe, premium driving experience. Granting a 10-year or 1-million-kilometre warranty, the Eclipse Cross is available at Zayani Motors.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Superiority Meets Sensuality With an astounding lightness of touch, the new 2019 Mercedes-Benz E 200 embodies modern style and refined sportiness. With secure comfort, highquality materials and sculpted seats, the E 200 offers the trademark Mercedes-Benz comfort, irrespective of the length of your journey.

The Dynamic Select switch gives you the freedom to choose comfortable, sporty, efficient or fully customised handling characteristics with a simple tap of the finger.

Starting at BD22,540, it is equipped with a Blind Spot Assist, and a parking package which includes a reversing camera and the Active Parking Assist feature for effortless parking. It facilitates the search for and selection of a parking space, as well as entering and leaving parallel and end-on parking spaces or garages.

When the vehicle is used by several people, the Memory Package comes in handy – up to three different positions for the electrically adjustable front seats, steering column and exterior mirrors can be stored and retrieved at the touch of a button.

An Electrifying Speedster Bridging past and future, the INFINITI Prototype 10 represents a physical manifestation of INFINITI’s creative and ambitious plans for electrified performance.

From 2021, every new INFINITI model will feature electric drivetrain technology to enhance performance. The Prototype 10 provides a window into INFINITI’s desire to deliver driving pleasure, thrilling performance and range confidence.

The Prototype 10 has been designed under the direction of INFINITI’s new executive design director Karim Habib. He says: “Electrification provides new opportunities for the design and layout of our cars.” While the Prototype 10 retains the clean, uninterrupted surfaces of the Q Inspiration Concept – an elongated, coupé-like sedan – it telegraphs the performance benefits of electric powertrains with a more purposeful speedster configuration.

Pride in Quality In the 2018 J D Power Initial Quality Study (IQS), industry benchmark for new vehicle quality in the US, Nissan brought honour by topping three vehicle segments, and finishing in the top three in two others.

The Nissan brand showed improvement from last year by eight problems per hundred vehicles (PP100) to an overall average of just 85 PP100, which resulted in the best performance of all non-luxury Japanese brands.

The Nissan Maxima won large car honours with 57 PP100, while the 2018 Nissan Frontier was named the top-rated Midsize Pickup for the third year running. On the Midsize Car front, with a 65 PP100 score, the Nissan Altima, too, achieved top honours.

“Nissan’s J D Power IQS results for 2018 are encouraging because they reflect customer satisfaction directly from the people who buy and lease our vehicles,” says Mark Swenson, vice president, total customer satisfaction, Nissan North America.

A New Era of Design The brand-new MG ZS 2019 model is a perfect option for buyers seeking a good-looking, well-equipped, well-built car at a sensible price.

Characterised by chrome touches on the grille and swept-back signature headlights, and built with a USD (Ultimate Stiffness Design) reinforced body structure with 70 per cent high strength steel, the car cuts an impressive figure.

The interior of the MG ZS is accessible and user-friendly, as well as comfortable. Giving the driver full control of the inbuilt technology, and having undergone rigorous testing with a five-star rating in the C-NCAP crash tests, safety is a top priority for the MG ZS. Available at Zayani Motors, general manager Mohamed Zaki says: “The new MG ZS features a stylish new design and a host of hi-tech features tailored specifically to the needs of the younger generation, making it a very strong contender in the local SUV market.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2018 71

adliyadining

Avant-garde Adliya fresh high tea and breakfast treats.

Offering a labyrinth of stand-alone restaurants, Adliya has some of the best and most popular eateries, serving an array of cuisines for every taste.

Lanterns Lounge and Restaurant

Turn a corner anywhere in Adliya’s Block 338 and you’ll find an eatery vying for your attention. BTM rounds up the best dining spots in the area.

If there is one district in Bahrain that has it all – it’s Adliya. This vibrant locality is found teaming with tourists and residents alike, be it any day of the week, and for good reason. Its many bylanes and alleyways are brimming with culinary gems that will literally leave you spoilt for choice, whatever your pocket size or purpose.

The Gulf Hotel is a long-standing stalwart of the area. Exuding luxury and sophistication, it is the go-to dining place to impress important business associates or woo that special someone. This landmark property has a range of gastronomic choices. A few of the best known 72 September 2018

are China Garden, Royal Thai, Margarita Mexicana, Sato for Japanese delights and Zahle for the love of Lebanese bites. Two noteworthy mentions are Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia’s Rasoi by Vineet, serving contemporary Indian fare, and the relaunched Italian restaurant La Pergola by Perbellini, in partnership with Michelin-starred chef Giancarlo Perbellini.

Another hotel in the vicinity is The Palace Boutique Hotel, best known for two of its outlets. Susy Massetti’s Masso is all about Southern European fine dining and is on everyone’s list of the hottest Mediterranean dining spots. The Orangery Tearoom & Patisserie looks pretty as a picture, where guests can sip on comforting beverages and tuck into seasonal delicacies as well as oven-

Indian and Asian Indulgences Lanterns Lounge and Restaurant is one of the best-loved Indian dining spots in the country.

The ambience of the restaurant downstairs is rife with the royalty of the cuisine. Whereas the LNT Gastropub upstairs has a different vibe and should be part of your next pub crawl.

Chapter 1 Restaurant & Rooftop Lounge is a relatively new entrant on the block and serves an Indian-inspired mix of gastronomy. If you’re craving the fiery flavours of Thai food, you can head to Thailand (the restaurant), Banana Leaf, or the very friendly Hash House. All of these serve a mean green curry and other equally impressive Thai delicacies. Beijing restaurant is a great place for a variety of dishes from mainland China, while David’s Stir Fry Crazy offers a fair choice of bold flavours spanning South-East Asia. If you’re looking for a quick weekday meal that’s easy on the pocket, choose Peppers Fusion for Asian treats.

The neighbourhood also has Akiko, for traditional and authentic Japanese Izakaya dishes, and old favourite Meisei is everyone’s go-to for contemporary Japanese cuisine for every occasion. For some Korean fare (we told www.bahrainthismonth.com

for yummy Lebanese fare, or if you want a few puffs of shisha, AlBindaira is a great option.

For food from the land of the Pharoahs, try Altkiya for authentic Egyptian dishes. Parsian is all about Persian flair in décor and food — a must-try for all.

Mexican Magic Adliya’s Senor Pacos is everyone’s favourite for a pitcher of chilled margarita and fresh guacamole. Original tastes of Mexico can also be found at Casa Mexicana and, in the famed Block 338, the internationally known Calexico.

you, Adliya does have everything), head over to Da Rae Jung.

Continental Classics Camelot is an old favourite; a fine dining experience in a dreamy, castle-like structure. It serves French favourites such as Moules Marinières as well as a small selection of international fare. Opposite, Upstairs Downstairs is believed to have perfected the art of Continental fare and is ideal if you’re feeling celebratory. Café Lilou has a Parisian panache, and is loved by islanders for its interior, reflecting a French bygone era, and its food, which is contemporary yet echoes the Moulin Rouge vibe. Madeleine, with its quintessentially French pastel-and-white décor, is a restaurant, patisserie and boulangerie that is noted for its lovely breakfast to start off the day. JJ’s Irish Restaurant has a fine choice of traditional Irish dishes as well as other food from across the globe. The menu at Attic, Adliya’s retro Greek venue, takes inspiration from all over Greece and serves hearty plates meant for sharing.

Coco’s is a perennial favourite, full of loyal patrons who will patiently wait for a table, any day of the week. The venue provides cosy indoor seating as well as al fresco dining, popular during cooler climes. Everything on the menu is a hit, from the fresh salads to lipsmacking main courses and to-die-for desserts.

Florence La Maison Méditerranéene and Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge are other spots known for decent European eats. For satisfying tapas and other delights from the coasts of Europe, La Vinoteca Barcelona is the place to be. Besides Continental specialities, My Café offers an allround selection of dishes that can please the palate, no matter what you’re craving. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Italian Eats Well, this cuisine warrants its own separate section, there being so many options in Adliya.

The iconic Oliveto is touted to be one of the very best, known to believe in the ‘less is more’ philosophy to serve authentic Italian dishes.

Another celebrated venue is Café Italia, standing on a similar pedestal as the old-but-gold Cico’s.

Mino’s is literally a hidden gem, known to dish out some of the best pizzas in a classic ambience. La Cucina is another family-friendly spot that provides delicious dishes at affordable prices.

Marvellous Middle-Eastern Shawarma Alley in Adliya is dotted with grill shops that serve genuine Arabic flavours at dirtcheap prices. Zahlawiya is the most recommended kiosk for its awesome Malghoom.

Grab some kebabs or shawarmas, wash it down with fresh juice, and you’re set for the next few hours, at least. If you’re feeling fancier, head to the likes of Shoo Fee Ma Fee

Steak Your Claim The Meat Co. is a three-storied structure serving the most succulent meats prepared as per your liking. This South African-style steakhouse chain offers superior cuts of beef with delicious sauces and sides. Torino Restaurant and Lounge is a newer steakhouse serving certified Angus beef and prime cuts, besides other Mediterranean options in a grunge-industrial setting. Although not an outand-out steakhouse, The Foundry serves premium meats and other apt accompaniments that you’ll remember for a long while after your meal.

American Appeal Blaze Burgers, Fuddruckers and Spud provide satiating burgers and quick meals, while Jan Burger is a tried and tested jewel on one of Adliya’s streets.

Other multi-cuisine restaurants in Adliya include Caesar’s (outdated, but still on the tasty list), Passion Restaurant and Café (try its Sri Lankan breakfast for a change) and Russo’s Restaurant and Lounge, for quirky cocktails and on-point service of mixed cuisine.

Calexico

September 2018 73

DINING

this month

Call of the Wild, p78

Incredibly Indian, p80

Classy Khaleeji Cuisine Behnaz Sanjana sampled the Middle Eastern marvels at Furn Bistro & Bakery.

Get the Gang Together, p84

A Japanese Gem, p86

View more info online

74 September 2018

Bahrain’s local cuisine is a favourite in my household over relaxed weekends or lazy weekday evenings. But what if you’re craving the smokiness of grilled meats and the flavour burst of meze on special occasions that call for a five-star treat? You head to The Westin City Centre Bahrain’s Furn Bistro & Bakery, of course!

And that’s just what my better half and I did one Saturday afternoon.

Friendly stewards and the easy banter of chefs at work in the open kitchen gave the sophisticated venue a bistro-esque feel. The restaurant spills out into a corridor of the mall – a great vantage point if you want to take a break and just people-watch, while enjoying a fine beverage and a quick bite.

The Muhammara and Quinoa Salad were good choices to start the meal with. The distinct tang and pungency of the Muhammara clung to the taste buds for moments after it was swallowed. The salad was a fresh bite of summer – a mix of avocado, crispy greens, quinoa bouncing around the palate and the sweetest tomatoes I’ve ever tasted. We also ordered Makanik, comprising lamb sausages (because the words induced salivation) and Chicken Liver (because I was feeling brave). I tried hard to guess what gave the mini sausages their homely, heavenly flavour. The quintessential Arabic seven-spice blend, I was informed. I loved how the surrounding chunky green and yellow capsicum sauce lent a beautiful punch of

heat. I’m usually not one for offal, but the moist chicken livers cooked with pomegranate, garlic and cilantro were just so tasty. The chef’s mastery was apparent in the blush pink (and not grey) of the livers.

Moving on to mains, the meat of the Oven-braised Lamb Shank fell off the bone when nudged. Paired with Marshoush Ades – lentils and browned rice – it made for a tantalising dish. Peeling the layer of dough from the Fie Qataah, we were hit by the aroma of herbed rice intermingled with succulent prawns.

Crunchy fried onions and labneh, heavy with the essence of zaatar and mint, complemented the dishes perfectly. The Arabic Mixed Grills accompanied by tahina sauce and garlic mayonnaise, what one might get at the neighbourhood shawarma shop, is glammed-up several notches. It was a beautifully presented platter of juicy kebabs, koftas, lamb chops, shish tawook, pickles and rustic, hand-cut potatoes.

Cheesy Kunafa with a delicate coating of crisp vermicelli was a sinful dessert. But the trio of homemade ice cream – pistachio, saffron and date – made for a grand finale. The dry ice that the dish sat on gave a mystical, smoky effect that was a fitting show for such deep, delicious flavours.

The unique dishes on the carefully curated menu at Furn come from the hearths of traditional Arabic households. They carry the mysterious, elusive flavours of the desert oasis, which will swirl around your senses long after you’ve left the venue.

Call 17 171-441. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining MAKI

Dishing Out Innovation Renowned for its contemporary Japanese cuisine, Maki Bahrain is constantly pushing the boundaries when it comes to inventive modern dishes.

Maki’s newest creation is the Lentil Caviar Salad – an ‘uber healthy’ dish that is both delicious and rich in textures and flavours.

The star of this dish is the French green lentil, accentuated by crispy corn, coriander, avocado, basil, cherry tomato, shiso, red radish, dill and baby orange, along with a special sweet and sour dressing. It’s a true representation of Maki’s creativity in pairing ingredients perfectly, thus bringing out the flavour in each element.

Maki has always led the pack in coming up with the most tasteful amalgamations such as Fusion Temaki, Dr Samer Maki, Mount Fuji Maki and Tartufo Yaki Udon, and its chefs are on a constant drive to research and experiment with the newest utensils and cooking methods. “After all, it is our

mission to spare no cost or time in sourcing the best ingredients and the newest trends in cuisine, which will serve to delight our guests’ palates,” says co-founder and managing partner Amer Zeitoun.

Another new dish is the Whole Wheat Yaki Udon, made with house-made noodles, truffles, shiitake mushrooms and dill. The Akami (tuna) Oliva Maki comprises tuna, crabsticks, black truffle pearls, avocado, baby orange, cress, olive oil mixture and caviaroli olive oil spheres, all of which are rolled in Maki’s exclusive, house-made olive wrap. Last but not least, expect smoke when you order the Cloud9 Shake (salmon) Sashimi – a sight to behold and a taste to savour.

Maki has added more than 20 new areas in Bahrain on its delivery grid – music to the ears for many Maki fans.

Akami Oliva Maki

Call 17 522-733, email maki.bahrain@ olivermaki.com or visit www.olivermaki.com

Dr. Samer Maki

Clean Bahrain Majlis

Anniversary Press Con

Members of Clean Bahrain held a majlis to talk about raising awareness among people on keeping Bahrain clean.

Environment Friends Society announced its 18th anniversary at a press conference in Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain.

Lahan, Hanoof & Dr Khawla

Kai & Ahmed

Ahmed

Hoda

Najat

Pat

Ash

Basel

76 September 2018

Hadeer, Fatima & Anas

Mustafa, Isa & Ahmed

Divraj & Nasra

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining GULF SUITES HOTEL AMWAJ

Call of the Wild An unrestrained place for food, drinks and music, Rainforest Lounge presages an authentic tropical experience.

True to its name, designed to radiate tropical vibes and housing an ambience akin to that of a tropical forest, Rainforest Lounge, located on the ground floor of Gulf Suites Hotel in Amwaj Islands, is a hotspot like no other, thus far in the Kingdom. Featuring plants, mushrooms, waterfalls and even models of rainforest animals such as tigers, monkeys, elephants, crocodiles and various tropical birds, Rainforest Lounge leaves one intrigued at the prospect of a first visit.

Serving an assortment of international seafood, beef and chicken dishes, Rainforest Lounge also boasts impressive ribs, pastas and pizzas.

Specialised chefs from five-star hotels provide bona fide Thai and Chinese

cuisine for catering purposes within Amwaj Islands and the rest of Bahrain.

Live music, in the form of a five-piece Latin soul band, and DJ Sonia, entertain the crowd every night from 8pm to 2am.

With attractive, special themed nights for ladies, men, airline crew and the military, Rainforest Lounge caters to different groups of people who would appreciate a unique experience.

Adding to the allure, the venue offers attractive food and beverage promotions, including but not limited to, Happy Hour from 4pm to 8pm daily, as well as an exclusive non-smoking area for families.

If you’d like a souvenir of your experience, rainforest-themed merchandise is sold in the gift shop.

Rainforest Lounge is open every day from noon to 2am.

Call 33 180-001 or 33 159-437.

Rainforest Lounge Opening

Laura, Emily & Hannah

Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj held the grand opening of its Rainforest Lounge at its premises.

To view more images, scan the QR code The cake-cutting ceremony Collette, Arthur, Olivia & Robert

Satar & Antony

78 September 2018

Faisal, Sushil, Vritti & Aapka Paresh

Apple, Kat & Anu

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining

SHOW SHHA

Incredibly Indian Behnaz Sanjana tried the many culinary delights of Show Shha, which proved to be a great Indian dining experience.

80 September 2018

It was a scorching afternoon when my colleague and I walked into Show Shha, the Indian restaurant located in Juffair. Inside, the chaat cart immediately grabbed our attention. We quickly placed our order and anticipated the myriad, mad flavours of Indian street food.

No sooner had we taken in the colourful décor of the venue than our Pani Poori and Dahi Sev Poori arrived. The elements of the Pani Poori came separately. I expertly spooned some sweet-sour date and tamarind chutney into the pooris – crisp, hollow orbs filled with a cooked chickpea mixture – and then tipped the decanter of the fiery green ‘paani’ (water) into it. I wasn’t much of an expert, after all, as I struggled to contain the whole poori brimming with liquid in my mouth, but the wondrous flavours of sweet, sour and spicy made it all worthwhile. My companion followed suit, doing very well for her first time.

Six pooris down, we went on to taste the cooling Dahi Sev Poori. Each bite was rife with a tasty filling, tangy chutney and whisked yogurt, all topped with crunchy bits of yellow vermicelli.

Next, we bit into succulent, boneless pieces of Chicken Tikka. The orange-red masala had seeped inside the chicken, making it delightful to eat. One could tell that the lamb chops that followed had been marinated in their secret spice-mix for hours on end – the yielding meat had a rich, decadent taste. Pataka Prawns were deep fried crustaceans ensconced in a blonde coating, drizzled with a spicy sauce. The name suggests that they are meant to be firecrackers on the tongue, and they were.

By this time, we were ready for serious business – the mains. The sweet-spicy Chicken Makhani had a rich tomato-based gravy laced with butter and cream.

It went well with the zaatar and black olive naan that we chose to mop it up with. Nalli Boti was a leg of lamb in a robust, red-brown curry. The meat, tenderised in its own juices, was one of the highlights of our meal. My colleague paired it with jalapeno cheese naan, while I opted for the hot chilli paratha. I must say, Show Shha is very creative with its homemade flatbreads that are contemporary, fusion spin-offs of their original forms.

And then arrived the dish that I always peg the standards of an Indian eatery to – its biryani. We dug into the Murg Dum Biryani to see pieces of moist chicken embroiled in a mild masala. The typical Hyderabadi salan (a type of curry) that accompanied the biryani gave it a different flavour punch altogether, while the yogurt raita played the balancing act of cooling the palate.

Gorging on so much savoury deliciousness, we had left no scope for anything sweet. But we promised ourselves to return for some decadent Indian sweetmeats. Another day, another lunch.

Call 13 114-556 or 33 063-074. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Palm Festival

Reem & Eman

Hussain

The Palm Tree Festival took place at the Farmer’s Market in Hoorat Aali.

Adel & Ebrahim

Hakeem, Isa, Najeeb & Mohammed Hassan & Juma

Kumail

Ali

Joana & Cherry

Mohammed

Hussain

Ahmed & Mohammed

Dr Abdul & Mahmoood

The real Indian experience!

Tel: +973 33063074 / 13114556 | Block 324, Road 2426 Bldg 1565 | Juffair, Kingdom of Bahrain K www.showshha.com | E Show Shha Restaurant C @showshhabh WWW

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2018 81

bystander

Hands Free Shopping Service Launch

Claire

Hawra

Kishora

Ali

To view more images, scan the QR code

City Centre Bahrain launched its new Hands Free Shopping service for visitors at its premises.

Dipti, Duaij Al Rumaihi, Ahmed, Sarah & Rawia

Meenu, Leni, Cynthia & CJ

Shefiq & Apple

Sumit, Fred & Ruslan

CJ & Leni

Media Dinner Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands held a media dinner at its newly opened restaurant and lounge, Ya Hala.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Stephen & Arun

Sumit & Darryl

Koshi & Shafiq

Meenu & Marcia

Randa & Cynthia

Brazilian Evening Wyndham Garden Manama hosted a Brazilian evening event at Via Brasil restaurant.

Cynthia, Mukul, Emanuel & Stephen

82 September 2018

Sheza

Bambie & Faith

To view more images, scan the QR code Ruslan

Meenu & Sallyann

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining BAHRAIN FAMILY LEISURE COMPANY

Get the Gang Together Bennigan’s in Amwaj Islands has introduced a new promotion aimed at bringing friends and families together.

We all know that great social occasions demand great food, and Bennigan’s Amwaj branch has come up with a special offer to make eating together even more fun and better value.

Alongside its range of regular offers, for a limited time, the restaurant now has The Gang Promo – when a ‘gang’ of three or more people choose three main courses and they get to grab a selection of free extras from a special ‘gang’ menu.

Check out Hogan’s Egg Rolls: Tender wraps filled with chicken, sweet corn, black beans and fresh herbs. Served with house-made pineapple sweet pepper cream sauce. Garlic Cheese Bread: Baguette slices with fresh herbs, garlic and butter, gratinated with cheese.

Prime Jal-A Day Burger: A half-pound burger seasoned with Cajun spices, sriracha aioli, sharp white cheddar, fresh fried jalapeno slices

AMA Seminar

and drizzled with your choice of chipotle ranch or freshly made jalapeno cream sauce. Chicken Fried Chicken: A true taste of the old south.

Tender chicken breast fried to a crisp golden brown and covered in rich creamy gravy.

Served with a choice of two sides. Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Southern fried chicken covered in a hot and spicy sauce, topped with bleu cheese dressing, lettuce, tomato and red onions in a sesame burger bun. And Chicken Tender Pub Bites: Three mini southern-coated chicken fillets topped with lettuce and smoky honey Dijon in a sesame bun.

Call 16 030-104/05.

To view more images, scan the QR code

Mary Grace, Marietta, Maryam & Aurora

AMA International School Bahrain hosted the Parenting the Digital Generation seminar at its premises.

Anne & Moataza

Ahmed & Aurora

Vicky, Freeza & Aiko

84 September 2018

Grace, Gelai & Loida

Jennifer & Mylene

Kat & Francis

Mary & Charlotte

Cecil

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining

Ladies Night Everyday

27thur sept

Live in Bahrain

PARK REGIS LOTUS HOTEL BAHRAIN

Bring on the Festivities

RICH HOMIE

Quan

TICKETS AND BOOKINGS CALL +973 3336 6659/+973 3353 6446

Park Regis Lotus Hotel Bahrain introduces its lavish Arabic- and Indianthemed banquet wedding packages.

For all your wedding party needs, the hotel offers an exemplary, customised buffet, including six cold and four hot starters, seven main courses, five desserts, as well as hot and cold drinks.

Other irresistible deals include a three-layered wedding cake and a men’s majlis for 20 people. Reap further benefits as the hotel offers a one-night stay for the couple in a Deluxe room with amenities, continental breakfast in bed, a candle-lit dinner, and 20 per cent discount for family and friends on rooms. Priced at BD14 (weekdays) and BD16 (weekends) per person for a minimum of 250 people, this offer is one of a kind.

A host of services, at 20 per cent discount, are also up for grabs.

Additionally, a truly desi pre-wedding Sangeeth (ceremony with songs), a pre-wedding party and any other function at Lotus Ballroom is available for a maximum of 120 people, at BD10 per person. Selected recommended wedding vendors and planners are also offered by the hotel.

Oktoberfest 2018 brings with it an array of German ales and authentic Bavarian food on September 27 and 28, with a live band at the Lotus Tent.

With a live band every Wednesday and Saturday, Brasa de Brazil’s Ladies’ Nights include two glasses of house red or white grape and light buffet for BD9.9. Another BD3.9 will get you unlimited house grape all night.

Friday Brunch at Brasa de Brazil, from noon to 4pm at BD18++ including soft beverages, and BD25++ with an extended beverage package, is a great way to spend your weekend. Get entertained by the live band and indulge in unlimited churrascaria meat options.

25%

MILITARY DISCOUNT

Call 17 362-220. www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2018 85

dining

RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA

A Japanese Gem

Ruka, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa’s Japanese restaurant, serves fantastic fare in a sophisticated ambience.

Ruka, perched on the heights of the five-star Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa in Seef, is one of the few eateries in Bahrain that serves the most skilfully crafted Japanese dishes. The food reflects a strong respect for tradition and craft, an insatiable appetite for innovation with purpose, and a clear and distinctive personality in every dish.

Some of us still equate Japanese cuisine with just sushi, which has been widely accepted as a healthy, low-calorie food and has etched its place as a firm favourite. But the variety of dishes available to diners with welltravelled palates is growing. Udon and soba noodles, deep-fried tempura, yakiniku (grilled meat), yakitori (char-broiled chicken) and kaiseki-ryori (a traditional multi-course meal) make up this fascinating Oriental fare.

Japanese cuisine takes a simple approach, using seasonings such as miso, mirin (sweet cooking sake) and soy sauce to lend the eventual dish’s ‘umami’ (savoury taste), as well as perfect harmony and balance.

The fare is much more than just reincarnated versions of dishes you find in other Japanese restaurants – it is almost entirely a compilation of specialities unique to the establishment. The menu is comprehensive and alluring; dishes are authentic but not outdated, with bold, intense flavours and an 86 September 2018

emphasis on simple presentation acquired through quality ingredients.

The restaurant’s chefs believe that a meal with no surprises is a culinary experience lost and a potentially memorable dining occasion wasted. Hence, they go the extra mile to offer new experiences, all the while encouraging diners to be bold enough to order something unfamiliar. There is no set protocol on ordering from the menu; dishes are designed to be shared at the table or enjoyed individually. The friendly servers will be happy to provide assistance with the menu explanations, choices and any dietary requirements.

Japan has long-standing and distinguished traditions when it comes to its cuisine and love for food-related festivals. This September, Ruka

celebrates the Nippon food festival from September 20-28. The restaurant’s head chef has specially designed a harmonious menu matched with carefully selected grape and sake. The bartenders will be shaking up cocktails inspired by authentic beverages, scenery and old traditions.

Every day of the week is a happening one at Ruka. Sundays are all about savouring Mexican spirits, and guests can indulge in the delicious Dumpling Combo on Mondays. The venue will also be pampering ladies with three free drinks on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. And don’t miss out on the superb business lunch offer, priced at just BD8.

Call 17 111-999.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining TALABAT

Order In to Win Big Foodies won big last month as Talabat dished out fantastic prizes to a chosen few who took part in the weekly competitions.

Talabat, the largest online food ordering platform in the Middle East, has given its customers reasons to rejoice. The weekly order-and-win competition, held exclusively for Batelco customers who order on the portal using their Batelco numbers, has been a great success.

Two lucky winners in each week’s raffle draws took home an array of rewards – from snazzy electronic devices to the grand prize of stylish automobiles. The first raffle gave away Samsung Galaxy VRs (virtual reality headset) with controllers. In the second week, PlayStation 4 units were up for grabs. The third draw saw iPhone X mobile phones being won, while the fourth week gave away iPad Pro devices. A lucky few took away Sony UHD LED 55-inch television sets the following week. The grand prize was massive – two winners drove away with their brand-new Chevrolet Camaros. The cars were handed over to them at National Motors Company, Bahrain’s official dealer of the Chevrolet brand.

The weekly draws took place at Talabat’s office under the supervision of officials from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism. This competition was a kick-off for a potential long-term partnership between the company and Batelco, and is a start for more such campaigns in the coming months. So, keep ordering on Talabat from your Batelco number – it might just be your ticket for a whopping win.

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

instagram.com/redhousemarketing

facebook.com/redhousemarketing

FROM A SINGLE BRICK IN 1991...

WE HAVE GROWN INTO A HOUSE

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twitter.com/rhmbahrain

Tel: (+973) 17 813 777 Fax: (+973) 17 813 700 | P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Bahrain | Address: Villa 1533 | Road 2426 | Block 324 | Bahrain

88 September 2018

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HIDDEN GEMS IN BAHRAIN

SAWADIKA

by BILL GRIEVE

I

t’s amazing how you can pass by something valuable and not see it – that’s why it’s called hidden treasure. In Juffair, almost out of sight, is a charming contemporary-style Thai restaurant – Sawadika – a culinary jewel fit for any crown.

The Thai word “Sawadika” means “Hello”.

Easy to find, lots of off-street parking, welllit, air-conditioned and with an abundance of restaurant and café-style seating, this Asian eatery offers a vast array of Thai delicacies cooked by real Thai chefs, who take great pride in presenting their own hidden gems in a treasure trove offering of spicy and sweet Thai treats.

The menu offers tantalising signature dishes, exquisite Oriental appetisers, fresh home-style Thai salads, and a range of almost addictive authentic soups and curries. You’ll

find a lengthy repertoire of traditional stirfried meals; cooked whole-fish dishes presented like works of art; a variety of Oriental noodle dishes; a list of fast foods like Pad Thai (a must-try), as well as classics that include Mint Salad Catfish and Crying Tiger BBQ beef. There’s also a selection of genuine Thai desserts and a range of fresh juices, iced Thai tea and cold drinks. The servings are fresh, well presented, adequately sized and overall great value for money as well!

Sawadika is located in Al Raya Mall, opposite Hotel Diva, next to Alosra supermarket. It opens daily from 7.30am to 7.30pm, except Fridays from 9am to 5.30pm.

Call 17 261-700 or 38 762-984.

Indo-Pak Food Festival

To view more images, scan the QR code

The K Hotel held the Indo-Pak food festival inauguration ceremony at Kolors restaurant.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Bilal, Volker & Nitai

Shiva, Rihana, Amanda, Ali & Dominic

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mahmood & Lana

Amanda, Duminsha & Natasha

Sandeep, Amanda & Sadi

September 2018 89

tablehopping

MARVELS OF MEXICO

Cantina Kahlo at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, invites you to spice up your weekend with a culinary journey around Mexico. Enjoy the Saturday Brunch Fiesta with authentic dishes, a taco station, irresistible sweets and festive décor. This special culinary event will be held on September 15, 22 and 29, from noon to 4pm. Also, celebrate Mexican Independence Day on September 15 with a lively atmosphere and expanded brunch options. It is priced at BD35 per person with select beverages, or BD20 including soft drinks.

Call 17 586-499.

OH OKTOBER!

If you’re looking for a touch of Munich this month, head over to Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain to celebrate Oktoberfest on your Thursday night out on September 27. The evening is priced at BD32, including a lavish buffet with the finest meat, live cooking stations and unlimited drinks.

Also, don’t miss the Oktoberfest-themed Friday brunch on September 28, where you can enjoy German specialities prepared by talented chefs for this special occasion. It is priced at BD36 including unlimited drinks and German malt from 12.30pm to 5pm.

Call 17 460-017.

HEAVENLY INDULGENCE Bahrain’s Sweetest Brunch is on every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm at Baharat, located at Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain. Discover it for yourself and be prepared to indulge in a sensory and savoury experience priced at BD26, including soft drinks and water, or BD38 including selected free-flow beverages. Live music from the vibrant duo, Deux Sons, is sure to enthral you. Book for 10 or more guests and receive a 20 per cent discount.

Call 17 171-441.

90 September 2018

GERMAN GALA

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa celebrates Oktoberfest at Tapas Bar & Restaurant from September 22 to October 7. The venue brings home the greatest German experience by hosting one of the largest Volksfests (travelling funfair) in town. Live the experience as you join in the celebrations of all things German and enjoy a great selection of traditional Deutsch gastronomy and malt, complemented with live entertainment, courtesy of the Cuban band, Timeless. The music will be backed with glamorous dancers and lots of hidden surprises. The festival will be held inside the restaurant on weekdays, and in the Tapas carpark on weekends.

Call 17 636-363.

ICONIC TEAROOM IN TOWN Angelina Paris, the iconic French patisserie and tearoom, has opened in Adliya’s Block 338. The venue has seating for more than 50 people and offers diners signature pastries, as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout the day. Founded in 1903, Angelina’s history dates back to the early 20th century, when Paris was still imbued with the spirit of the Belle Époque. It was then that tearooms were born and adopted by Parisians as their new meeting places, more comfortable than traditional cafés and more fashionable than pastry shops. The elegant establishment has retained its fame over the decades and welcomes islanders to savour its fine fare. Another branch is in the pipeline for autumn at The Avenues – Bahrain.

Call 17 001-344.

HAVE A RELAXING HOLIDAY Make your weekend count with the fun-filled brunch every Friday at Café Mosaic on the 28th floor of Wyndham Garden Manama in Juffair.

Enjoy a lavish international buffet, live cooking stations, kids’ activities, plus live entertainment from the resident band, from 12.30pm to 4pm. You’ll get to take in stunning views of Bahrain’s skyline from the venue. The meal is priced at BD12++ inclusive of food and soft drinks, or BD22++ inclusive of food and selected beverages. Children dine at half the price.

Call 66 316-666. www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

SHOW YOUR LOVE

ONE FOR THE LADIES

When? Every day Event? Indian Lunch and Dinner Venue? Jashan, Wyndham Garden Manama

Savour the authentic taste of Indian cuisine with a wide variety of traditional recipes reflecting the diversity of India, with live entertainment during dinner.

Call 66 316-666.

It’s a well-known fact that The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, is one of the most romantic, dreamy destinations on the island to celebrate love. Treat your special someone to an intimate dinner under the stars with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf any day of the week from sunset to 10pm. The cosy repast will cost BD350 per couple on the sea breeze veranda, or BD500 per couple on the private island.

Call 17 586-499.

Ladies can get together with their girlfriends every Monday at Sofitel Bahrain Thalassa Sea & Spa’s Pashawat Restaurant for a special night and enjoy 50 per cent off delicious Lebanese dishes and refreshing beverages. It’s the chance to let loose and enjoy flavoured shisha and amazing live Arabic entertainment.

Call 17 636-363.

GEARING UP FOR SCHOOL

When? Every day Event? Bistro-Inspired Lunch Venue? CUT by Wolfgang Puck Steakhouse

Explore the new flavour-focused lunch menu, which is a bistro-inspired indulgence that complements the pace of your lunch break.

Call 17 115-044.

When? Every day Event? International Buffet Venue? Al Safir Restaurant, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

Enjoy a special summer price of BD10++ per person for lunch or dinner.

The Buy 1 Get 1 Free offer is available with the Entertainer voucher.

Call 17 533-533.

SPECIAL TREATS Golestan, the Persian restaurant at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, has a special main course and soup promotion all through the month of September. Three special items – Soop-E-Morgh, Kebab Lari and Maygo Polo — will be available only as part of the offer. The venue is open for lunch from 12.30pm to 3.30pm and for dinner from 7.30pm to 11.30pm.

Call 17 533-533.

Heads up, shoulders back — ready for school? Bahrain Bay Kitchen at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay presents the Back to School Brunch — Carnival Fridays. This is a feast of homemade delicacies prepared by executive chef Hyung Gyu Kim to ‘whet the appetite’ for a successful school year. Little ones will adore the carnival ambience, replete with a photo booth, face painting, stilt walkers, balloon artists and goody giveaways. The meal costs BD25++ inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages, or BD35++ inclusive of selected drinks. The price for kids up to 12 years of age is BD12.500++ and kids below five years dine for free. The grand spread will be laid out every Friday through September from 1pm to 4pm.

Call 17 115-500.

CHILL OUT

SPLENDID SUSHI

When? Every Wednesday Event? Barbeque Night Venue? Baharat Restaurant, Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain

A stylish yet rustic dining experience showcasing barbeque ribs, Wagyu prime rib steak and a lavish buffet for BD18 including soft drinks and water, or BD24 including selected free-flow beverages.

Call 17 171-144.

When? Every Wednesday and Thursday Event? Business Lunch Venue? Al Murjan Ballroom, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

Enjoy a great lunch offer of international cuisine and live cooking stations, priced at BD12. Booking in advance is required.

Call 17 460-017.

When? Every Friday Event? Summer Friday Brunch Venue? Saraya and Fiamma restaurants, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Enliven your palate with exciting flavours and the finest selection of international delicacies for BD25 per person inclusive of soft drinks and selected beverages.

Call 17 636-363.

At Reef Resort’s Japanese eatery, Tokyo Reef, will run the Tabehodai Endless Sushi promotion priced at BD14++ per person, from Saturday to Wednesday, every week.

Guests can watch as the chef prepares lip-smacking sushi and sashimi right in front of their eyes. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.

Call 13 110-110. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Nosh, aka New Orleans Social House, at The Juffair Grand Hotel, is a fashionable spot to serenade your senses. Join family and friends to enjoy delicious American shared plates and cocktails in a cool lounge setting. The venue has a convivial vibe, ideal for weekdays and weekends alike. So, dig in to Southern American food with a healthy, modern take, complemented by a diverse and colourful selection of beverages.

Visit www.noshbahrain.com

When? September 7 Event? September Super Brunch Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Embark on a delicious gastronomic journey featuring international dishes at La Med, Italian classics at Primavera, exotic Indian fare at Nirvana and prime steaks and seafood at Plums. It is priced at BD35++ with soft drinks, or BD39++ with select beverages.

Call 17 586-499.

91 September 2018

marketplace

GULF HOTELS GROUP

Bahrain Favourite Expands to Dubai The Gulf Hotels Group has announced the soft opening of its first UAE hotel.

92 September 2018

Gulf Hotels Group (GHG), Bahrain’s leading homegrown hospitality provider, which operates the muchloved Gulf Hotel, has initiated the first phase of its regional expansion plan, which includes Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC, with the launch of the Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay in Dubai.

The four-star deluxe hotel offers a total of 270 rooms, with 48 standard rooms, 39 superior rooms, 92 deluxe rooms, 60 grand deluxe rooms, 25 executive suites, four luxury suites and two penthouse suites, which overlook the Dubai Water Canal. Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay boasts fine-dining restaurants alongside impressive lounges. Other facilities include meeting rooms, a swimming pool, fitness centre and spa. The hotel also has a nightclub for both in-house and public guests.

Located 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport, the hotel will cater to both business and leisure travellers. It is close to the central commercial and business district and offers easy access to Dubai Mall, while facing the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa – both of which are five minutes’ drive away.

Guests can sample exquisite cuisines from around the world with multiple dining restaurants such as: Café Delices – Indulge in delicious pastries, freshly baked cookies, exquisite macarons and homemade chocolates. Recharge with a cup of freshly brewed coffee and enjoy a sumptuous and healthy light lunch

or order a speciality cake custom-made exclusively for you.

Al Waha Restaurant – Offering a sumptuous array of international and local cuisines. Indulge in a variety of specialities and feel the burning passion of the chef with mouthwatering dishes.

Naisa Oriental Restaurant – An oasis of contemporary Asian cuisine served in a fine-dining setting. Treat yourself to some of the impressively authentic and exquisite dishes.

The Other Office Karaoke Bar – An open social lounge area with a full bar and karaoke, plus a 70-inch plasma TV and five stylish private karaoke rooms.

Step up, take the stage and sing the night away at The Other Office.

Sky Bar – This bar combines quality food, drinks and eclectic entertainment. In addition to the lively sports bar providing an exciting atmosphere, the Sky Bar is the ideal place to enjoy mouthwatering bites and thirst-quenching drinks while cheering on your favourite team.

The Canal Lounge – Breathtaking is the only word to describe The Canal Lounge. The lounge and terrace serve quality food, drinks and entertainment with an awe-inspiring view of the Dubai cityscape.

Call +971 4247-3333 or email info@gulfcourthotelbusinessbay.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace ORSAY

Fashion Inspiration Look gorgeous with affordable fashion from ORSAY, the German brand, as it introduces its new September-October collection.

Ladies, you deserve the best! And when it comes to the ever-changing fashion scene, you need something stunning that expresses your individual style without breaking the bank. That’s where ORSAY comes in, allowing you to be bang on trend with fabulous outfits that make you stand out from the crowd, and are reasonably priced at the same time.

Reminisce on good fashion memories with ORSAY’s latest autumn collection – the iconic retro style served in a modern way surprises with its freshness. Classic designs feature side by side with black and grey colours, highlighted with pink fur.

Red or green tartan celebrates its spectacular comeback in the company of belts with slogans and a double-breasted jacket. It’s a real clash of British style with street looks. Colourful, floral vintage patterns flirt shamelessly with edgy urban pieces. You just cannot imagine this season without tux belts, zippers and a plush jacket. Cowboy accessories, metal details and black leather conquered the catwalks, and the hearts of women. This is how the Wild West looks in a beautiful, ladies’ version!

To keep things fresh and interesting, ORSAY introduces a new collection every two weeks, giving you a variety of options to make sure you are constantly unique with your attire.

The new collection is available at ORSAY, City Centre Bahrain.

Call 17 581-569.

Lloyd & Satheesh

Staff Party Everest Trading held a staff party at Al Bander Resort.

Hamza, Mehdi, Gemma & Masood

Yahya, Marwa, Mohammed, Rawan, Waleed & Mehdi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Lee

Matt

Edward

Jovy

September 2018 93

marketplace

AMA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL BAHRAIN

A Year of Success Having experienced a year of prosperity, AMA International School Bahrain looks confidently towards the future.

94 September 2018

The AMA International School Bahrain (AMAISB) school year ended with improvements to facilities offered, outstanding student achievements, and the school’s membership in an international educational community.

At the beginning of the previous academic year, AMA started to use the newly constructed middle and high school building equipped with teaching resources such as science, computer and iMAC laboratories that enhanced teaching and learning.

Additionally, the new multipurpose hall with LED wall monitor and indoor sports facilities encouraged students to participate in various school activities.

Likewise, the school took pride in being the sixth member school of the Council of International Schools (CIS) in the Kingdom this past year. CIS is a membership community and a leader in international accreditation. AMAISB was recommended by the CIS evaluator to proceed with the accreditation process and have the preparatory visit in November 2018, on having surpassed membership standards.

Looking forward, AMAISB aims to continuously improve its programme offering by deepening and widening its curriculum in alignment with the Californian Core Standards. Elective subjects will be introduced, which will aim to broaden the interest of students and enhance their fundamental creativity and critical thinking skills.

Recently, AMAISB students brought honour to the school in international competitions. In the Scholars’

Cup – Global Round in Barcelona, Spain, Elyas Zuhair Abdulla Alqasim won four silver medals, a gold medal and qualified in the 2108 Tournament of Champions.

Additionally, robotics coach, Francisco Reyes, along with team members Isa Hassan Alqassimi, Faizal Husain Alsayegh, Goh Yi Ken, Goh Yiyi, Mohamed Isa Ebrahim and Ahmed Majeed Husain, achieved ninth place in the World Adolescent Robotics Competition 2018, held in Guiyang, China.

The mission of the school is to provide relevant knowledge, skills and confidence necessary in embracing challenges of the dynamic world. With this mission in mind, the school is sending students to international competitions this year.

Adding to the list of international exposure, AMAISB students will compete in November 2018’s World Robotics Olympiad (WRO) International Final in Thailand, and World Scholars’ Cup – 2018 Tournament of Champions at Yale University, USA. AMAISB is anticipating a successful school year 2018-2019 with the offering of the 2018 summer classes to KG and primary school students, designed to prepare them for upcoming challenges.

Marietta S Sicat, the school’s director, anticipates further success in the next academic year, taking into account teaching resources such as equipped facilities, an articulated curriculum and a competent group of teachers and support staff.

Call 17 598-440 or email amais@amaiu.edu.bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Journey to a Healthy Heart

Just in time for World Heart Day, which takes place on September 29, Royal Bahrain Hospital gives you cardio guidelines for a fitter lifestyle.

Everything one goes through daily affects the heart; a vital reason to keep yourself in the best possible shape. Start by introducing exercise to your daily routine – a brisk 30-minute daily walk makes a vast difference.

Individuals not inclined to exercise are twice as likely to be victims of heart disease as opposed to those who are active, as exercising helps burn calories and maintain a healthy lifestyle. It steadies blood pressure, while also reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol, and boosting HDL (good) cholesterol.

Crucial exercises include aerobics or cardio – running, swimming, biking, aerobic dancing or jogging. An increased heart rate and rapid breathing are to be expected, but don’t push yourself too hard! If joint pain is an issue, make sure you choose a low-impact activity such as swimming or walking. Habitual morning stretching will energise you.

Strength training using your body weight, resistance bands or weights, two or three times a week, with a day for muscle recovery between sessions, will prove beneficial. Beginners should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate workout, weekly.

Be cautious – pain or pressure in your chest, difficulty breathing, dizziness, feeling lightheaded or an abnormally fast heart rate are warning signs, requiring medical assistance. See your cardiologist and

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dr Praveen Kumar

Dr Waleed Sultan

ensure all is well before you begin your fitness journey.

For consultations, visit cardiology consultant Dr Praveen Kumar and cardiology specialist Dr Waleed Sultan at Royal Bahrain Hospital.

Call 17 246-800 or visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com for appointments. The Royal Bahrain Hospital Mobile app can be download on iOS and Android devices.

September 2018 95

marketplace FARHAT INTERNATIONAL TOURS & TRAVEL

An Epic Disney Holiday detail immerses you in a story. Situated just a few minutes by free shuttle bus from the Disney Parks and Disney Village, enjoy comfortable, quality family accommodation – Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Hotel New York, Disney’s Newport Bay Club, Disney’s Sequoia Lodge, Disney’s Hotel Cheyenne, Disney’s Hotel Santa Fe and Disney’s Davy Crockett Ranch.

Discover two Disney Parks, more than 50 attractions, stunning shows, unforgettable Disney character encounters and a sparkly celebration that’s been 25 years in the making.

Enjoy a marvellous vacation with a stay at one of seven Disney Hotels in the heart of the magic. Eat, drink and dance in the lively venues of Disney Village. Tickle your taste buds across Disneyland Paris and add a little more sparkle to your stay with magical extras, smart service and top tips.

DISNEY PARKS Disneyland Park It’s an enchanting kingdom where five magical lands bring fairy tales to life. Discover sparkling shows, jaw-dropping attractions, a dazzling parade and unforgettable encounters with Disney characters.

Walt Disney Studios Park Get ready for lights, camera and a whole lot of

action! Bask in the spotlight as blockbuster attractions, star-studded shows and memorable encounters add some movie magic to your family’s story.

FOOD OPTIONS Enjoy magic at mealtimes all across Disneyland Paris. With over 50 restaurants to choose from, you’ll find something for everyone. You can choose between four dining experiences – allyou-can-eat buffet, table service, dine with Disney characters, and food on-the-go.

Farhat International Tours & Travel WLL is the appointed agent for Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line in Bahrain.

DISNEY HOTELS Live the magic – stay in one of the seven uniquely themed Disney Hotels, where every

Call 17 216-411, email disney@farhat-tours. com or visit the Bahrain office for a free consultation.

Nasser, Khalid & Adel

New Car Launch Bin Hindi Motors launched the Kia Optima 2019 and Kia Cerato 2019 at its showroom in Khamis.

HE Koo Hyunmo, Ahmed bin Hindi & Mohammed bin Hindi

Nawaf bin Hindi & Abdul Aziz

96 September 2018

Momen & John Joseph

Aliya, Mamun & Khalid

Malougi & Johnny

Vinod & Venkitesh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace G4S

Integrated Security Solutions

G4S is renowned for working in sectors where security and safety risks are considered a strategic threat.

A joint venture with local partner Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, G4S Bahrain is the world’s leading global, integrated security company, specialising in the provision of security and related services across six continents. It was established in 1993, and has a workforce of 500.

In today’s world, safety and security are a major concern of every organisation. With increasing organised crime, terrorist activities and general theft prevalent across the globe, there has never been more importance attached to safeguarding people and properties. Banks, financial institutions and major corporations have started looking for professional advice and are outsourcing their security and cash management activities to a professional organisation such as G4S. This very demanding specialist service is carried out according to security principles and procedures which are a result of more than 100 years of experience gained in more than 90 countries around the world.

To meet the challenges and customers’ demands, G4S Bahrain offers a full range of integrated security solutions, including cash in transit, ATM management, Cash360 Deposita machines, electronic security systems, manned security services, emergency response and risk consultancy services. The company will soon open a fully secured Cash Centre, which can cater for bulk cash processing and other cash-related

www.bahrainthismonth.com

solutions to various banks and major institutions. Additional services, such as facilities management, manpower recruitment and a new guarding company, will also be opened by the start of 2019 as part of G4S Bahrain’s expansion programme, ensuring the company’s growth for years to come.

Call 17 714-409 or visit www.g4s.com.bh

September 2018 97

marketplace AL RASHID GROUP

Spotlight on School Style Centrepoint’s snazzy new back-to-school collection will help youngsters quickly get over their end-of-summer blues.

Centrepoint is the one-stop retail destination for fashion conscious shoppers across the Middle East. The brand has launched its backto-school collection, making cool essentials easily accessible to all. A wide variety of products, in the latest colours, materials, patterns and textures, are now available at the retailer’s stores in leading malls across Bahrain, including at the newest branch in Oasis Mall, Juffair.

The household names that make up the brand – Mothercare, Splash, Lifestyle and Shoemart – celebrate today’s youth culture and influence the current generation’s unique individual style.

Customers will find an extensive range of specially curated, fun products for girls and boys between two and 18 years of age.

Backpacks, clothes, shoes, stationery, water bottles and other accessories, featuring some of the most-loved characters, will make returning to the classroom that much easier in 2018.

Mothercare’s range is ideal for preschool, primary and secondary school children with a love for movies, sports and popular culture.

Girls will be delighted to see new characters

98 September 2018

from Shopkins, Miraculous Ladybug and My Melody make their debut at Centrepoint. Stylish yet functional school bag sets for little fashionistas comprise a trolley bag, backpack, lunch bag, lunch box, pencil case and water bottle, all depicting their favourite heroines.

Meanwhile, the boys’ collection will transport little men into their own fantasy world.

Matching sets sporting the latest characters from Avengers, The Incredibles and Transformers will thrill daring young schoolgoers, while making learning a joyous journey. Brands such as Roco and High Sierra have also made their entrance at the stores this summer, appealing to those with a penchant for modern simplicity.

For trendy teenagers looking to stand out from the crowd, Lifestyle’s range of school bags and accessories is the answer. Acid-bright colours, chrome finishes, digital camouflage motifs, exotic native prints, tropical and Western rodeo styles, and varsity-inspired looks take centre stage this year. The assortment includes well-liked products from coveted brands, such as FCB, Franklin & Marshall, Jansport, Pepe Jeans and UEFA

Champions League, in striking hues and patterns. Doodle-inspired knapsacks, journals, mugs, paper cups and pillows will appeal to the artistically inclined.

For essential footwear to complete the perfect school look, Shoemart’s back-to-school series features a durable and stylish range of basic black and white shoes, in addition to colourful sports shoes from Puma, Reebok, Skechers, Kappa and Kangaroos, available in sizes of up to 40 for girls and 44 for boys. Sizes start at 24 for kids as young as two years for their first day of pre-school. Watch your little ones happily strut around in their favourite designs, including Marvel’s Avengers, Disney’s Minnie Mouse, Barbie and Hello Kitty on their shoes and school bags alike. Teenagers can choose from a selection of trendy satchels in a variety of shapes and designs, from preferred brands like Skechers, presenting a multicoloured line-up fit for young artists in the making, and Kangaroos, showcasing an exciting assortment of subtle hues mixed with funky prints, amongst many others.

Visit www.centrepointstores.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace FRASER SUITES DIPLOMATIC AREA

Unbeatable Deals

Well-known five-star luxury hotel residence, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area, has superb offers on luxurious spa treatments and more.

Located in the centre of Manama, less than five minutes from The Avenues – Bahrain, the Kingdom’s newest shopping mall, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area offers guests all the facilities of a top-notch five-star hotel, including an indoor pool, a modern gym, steam and sauna, Kids’ Club, sea-view Lebanese restaurant, Da Rosa, as well as the luxury boutique Haven Spa. The property boasts 114 fully furnished luxury one- to three-bedroom suites, ranging from 70sq/ft to 300sq/ft, all with stunning sea and city views. There are also six bespoke penthouses which occupy the top two floors, with sweeping views of the city and its glamorous skyline – a superb choice for an ultra-refined experience of Bahrain.

With excellent, proficient service and a top-class range of facilities, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area meets the needs of busy executives, families and international travellers, anticipating and exceeding their expectations with every stay.

Why not visit and take advantage of our offers from pampering spa treatments to special discounts at Da Rosa?

• The Great Escape Spa Package comprises an aromatherapy massage, coffee body scrub and mani-pedi, priced at BD40 instead of the regular price of BD68.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

• The Deep Breath Spa Package offers a Moroccan hammam, Swedish massage and facial treatment all for BD44 instead of the usual BD80.

• Complete your pampering with a healthy lunch priced at BD5 instead of BD6.500.

Mention FSBTM18 to take advantage of these special offers.

Call 16 161-888.

September 2018 99

marketplace MIDDLE EAST GROUP OF HOSPITALS AND MEDICAL CENTERS

Providing Expert Care Neurosurgery and spine surgery consultant Dr Samy Gouda

Advanced technology at Middle East Hospital (MEH) makes brain tumour surgery affordable for patients.

An MEH patient’s symptoms started off as a splitting headache, followed by blurred vision in the left eye, resulting in a strong attack of convulsion. This patient had a brain tumour, 4cm in diameter, and the removal surgery lasted eight hours. It was not too demanding a task for Dr Samy Gouda and his medical staff at Middle East Hospital, Segaya, as the doctor and the hospital are well-versed in advanced surgeries.

The patient was suffering from severe fatigue and weakness in her limbs. She could not walk without support and her condition was worsening over the days. Her family rushed her to Middle East Hospital after she had a strong convulsion, which made her weaker and her speech slurred. Prompt action from Dr Gouda got the patient an MRI scan at MEH. The scan showed a tumour on the left hemisphere of the brain, which was blocking the main arteries, veins of the motor area of the leg, and speech.

Brain and other nervous system cancer is the 10th leading cause of death in women. The five-year survival rate for people with cancerous brain or CNS tumours is 34 per cent for men and 36 per cent for women. However, the survival rates vary widely and depend on several factors, including the type of brain or spinal cord cancer.

Family members extended their gratitude, given that this patient could move her limbs and even talk just after an hour of the surgery. The 100 September 2018

hospital’s advanced equipment and excellent service was appreciated by the patient and her family, and she was discharged within five days of hospitalisation.

Tumours that originate in the brain itself or in the tissue close to it are called primary brain tumours. Brain tumours account for 85 to 90 per cent of all primary CNS tumours. Secondary brain tumours occur when the cancer begins elsewhere and spreads to the brain.

A brain tumour is a collection, or mass of abnormal cells in your brain. They can be cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign). Normally, cells grow and multiply in an orderly way. Occasionally, however, some cells behave abnormally. They multiply in an uncontrolled way and these abnormal cells may grow into a lump, which is called a tumour.

Symptoms of brain tumours include new onset or change in pattern of headaches; headaches that gradually become more frequent and more severe; unexplained nausea or vomiting; vision problems – blurred or double vision, or loss of peripheral vision; gradual loss of sensation or movement in an arm or leg; difficulty with balance; speech difficulties; seizures; and hearing problems.

Middle East Hospital in Segaya is a multispeciality, 85-bed, state-of-the-art facility. The Middle East Hospital Group is expanding, with the recent opening of a new medical centre at BIW (Bahrain Investment Wharf) in the Hidd Industrial Area, in addition to Middle East Medical Centers in Hidd and Salmabad.

MEH has various departments, including advanced surgical, maternity (OB/Gyn), dental

Before

After

and maxillofacial, cosmetology, dermatology, gastroenterology and paediatric.

The hospital caters to all sorts of ailments and the doctors are well experienced in surgeries and management of brain tumour, hysterectomy, polypectomy, skin grafting, maternity (CS/N), haemorrhoids and diabetology.

Middle East Group of Hospitals and Medical Centers are located strategically in Manama (MEH-Segaya, 17 362-233); Salmabad (MEMSalmabad, 17 216-056); Hidd (MEM-Hidd, 17 464-848); and Bahrain Investment Wharf (MEMBIW Hidd Industrial area, 77 464-848). The locations, facilities and the dedicated, highly qualified team of doctors make the Middle East Hospital Group an ideal choice for comprehensive medical care of families, nationals and expatriates, as well as employees of corporate houses and companies.

Call 17 362-233 or follow on Facebook: Middle East Hospital for more information. www.bahrainthismonth.com

most comprehensive source of

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information available on the industry, covering passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, service centres, specialist suppliers and automotive services throughout the Kingdom.

Call to get listed!

Red House Marketing P.O. Box 20461, Manama Kingdom of Bahrain Tell.: +973 17 813-777 Fax: +973 17 813-700 Mob.: +973 3444-5136

marketplace BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Skin Restoration

Dr Anitta Sara Thampi

Bahrain Specialist Hospital dermatology specialist, Dr Anitta Sara Thampi, MBBS, MD, explains fraxel laser therapy.

102 September 2018

Acne scars, stretch marks, pigmentation, enlarged pores and wrinkles have been a challenge for dermatologists to treat and this issue has proved to be an area of concern with populations of all skin types.

Fraxel Laser Skin Resurfacing is an FDA-approved fractional laser technology to help restore your skin to its original, perfect texture and achieves smoother, fresher, younger looking skin, improved tone and texture, smaller pores, erasing of unwanted brown spots, acne scars and surgical scars and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

Fraxel is a safe, non-invasive laser skin treatment that tricks your skin into creating new skin to replace the damaged or targeted areas, resulting in natural skin rejuvenation that takes years off your appearance.

How Fraxel lasers work is as revolutionary as the results that the treatment delivers. It targets both the epidermis and dermis. Dermatologists are able to

precisely treat thousands of microscopic areas of skin, using pinpoint laser beams that penetrate beneath the skin surface to eliminate old, damaged skin cells. This fractional treatment results in a faster healing process.

You can expect two levels of results – immediate and progressive. Immediately after the initial healing is complete, the surface of your skin will feel softer, look brighter and the tone will start to become even. Progressive results occur over the next three to six months, as the deeper layers of the skin continue to heal.

The number of sessions depends entirely on your skin type, the condition being treated and how your skin responds. Studies have shown that the best results are achieved with three to five sessions, with each one carried out four weeks apart.

Patients are prepared for the procedure with an application of topical anaesthetic cream. Post procedure, they are advised to follow strict sun protection, moisturise and to avoid use of any bleaching creams, scrubs or strong exfoliating creams.

Following the procedure, patients may encounter redness and swelling, which may vary with the intensity of the procedure. This will resolve over a few days, as the skin requires time to heal. Some patients of specific skin types may, in rare cases, encounter post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Fraxel laser therapy is offered at Bahrain Specialist hospital and for any further queries, you can contact the Department of Dermatology.

Call 17 812-000 or email anitta.thampi@bsh.com.bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

It’s Super September

Make the most of fantastic deals at the Atiram Premier Hotel this month.

Atiram Premier Hotel in Juffair has unbeatable offers available for September. Front office manager Victor Lourdes and his team are excited to welcome guests to this swanky property in upmarket Juffair.

Book your Bed and Breakfast package in a Deluxe double room for just BD55. Early check-in or late check-out can be considered depending upon availability of the rooms. It’s a great opportunity to treat a special someone to a romantic weekend or have a fun family staycation with the children. If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, why not book one of the hotel’s Executive Suites and enjoy the high life with the Bed and Breakfast package for just BD99? Both packages are valid throughout this month.

With an additional BD18 per head, you get to enjoy the popular Friday Fun Brunch at Wembley Restaurant, inclusive of unlimited drinks and a wide selection of dishes from the gala buffet. A live barbeque and band makes for a memorable afternoon.

Atiram Premier Hotel ensures that your weekends are packed with just the right recreational activities. Take a swim in the outdoor pool, relax in the Jacuzzi, or just sip a cocktail on the sun terrace to truly chill out and unwind. Enjoy great music at Coda Jazz Lounge, dance the night away at Cavallo Club, or catch up on all the sports action at Wembley

Victor Lourdes

Lounge. The establishment also boasts several restaurants that cater for a multinational crowd.

Call 17 811-811 or email reservations@atirampremierhotel.com

Justd 55b

SUMMER TIME SPECIAL 2 Nights Hotel Accommodation In a Deluxe Double Room Icluding Breakfast.

Valid For Any Two Night Stay Over The Weekend Or Even Extend Your Stay To Make a Long Weekend.

Upgrade To An Executive Suites For 99bd.

Package Includes a Welcome Drink And Complimentry Fruit Basket.

Wii Access Within the Entire hotel.

Free accommodation (room only) up to 2 Children below 12 years of age

Also Included In This Package Is Discounted Entry Into The Friday Fun Brunch In Our Wembley Lounge For Just 18bd

Rates are valid from 1st august 2018 until 30th september 2018, subject to change there after without prior notice.

Check-In and Check-Out on a priority basis(Complimentary early check-in at 9 am and late check-out until 4 pm) Guarantee:- Prepayment required by any mode of payment.Cancellation:- Minimum 2 days prior to arrival full package charge thereafter Reservations:-

No-Show:- Complete Package Charge,Rates are not Applicable on Eid holidays.

T: -+973-17 811 811 F:- +973-17 811 311 E:- reservations@atirampre,ierhotel.com fom@atirampremierhotel.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2018 103

marketplacebusinessbites

Golden Keyholders Open Hospitality Doors

Maximising Digital Services In line with providing the latest electronic services and secure payment solutions, new digital services have been launched on MaxWallet, in a collaboration between BBK and CrediMax, to enable quick and secure payment options and services.

MaxWallet, recently introduced by CrediMax, offers a wide range of easy-to-use services. The collaboration will focus on providing more services and payment options, such as transferring money and sharing payments with friends and family. BBK customers will also be able to make purchases via Quick Response payments (QR) using their BBK debit cards. Currently available on both Android and iOS, more attractive services and features will be available gradually on MaxWallet.

t’azur Invests in Invita Claims t’azur, one of Bahrain’s leading insurance providers, has taken a stake in the motor third party administrator company Invita Claims Management Company B S C. t’azur provides family and general Takaful products for individuals and businesses, in compliance with Islamic Shari’a law. Invita is a certified regional provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) services, headquartered in Bahrain, and a fully owned subsidiary of BBK bank.

Invita Claims is one of the latest ventures of Invita BPO, formed to address a need for more efficient handling of motor insurance claims, with the introduction of InsureTech solutions. Clients can now open claims online, over the phone or visit Invita’s branch in Seef Mall, Isa Town.

104 September 2018

Khalil Al Yaman, Saleha Al Wazzan and Ali Radhi are three officially recognised concierge members of Les Clefs d’Or, which means the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay has the most qualified concierge team in the Middle East.

The three individuals, part of the dedicated and dynamic team, have each attained titles not previously achieved in Bahrain. Khalil Al Yaman is the founder and re-elected president of the Bahrain Hotels Concierge Group. Saleha Al Wazzan, concierge agent, is the first female Bahraini Les Clefs d’Or concierge member, and Ali Radhi, concierge supervisor, received the coveted golden Les Clefs d’Or keys last year, making him the first Bahraini national to accomplish this feat. The trio wear their golden Les Clefs d’Or badges proudly.

Nest Accelerates Expansion In partnership with American Express Middle East, Nest entered the Bahraini market with the launch of the very first global corporate fintech programme in the region, ACCELERATE ME. It will provide up to 15 local and international start-ups with innovative solutions to deliver unique customer engagement, automated payments, and alternative physical and digital platforms for merchants.

Mazin Khoury, CEO of American Express Middle East, says: “This new partnership with Nest will allow us to work closely with the start-up community and complement the work we do at Bahrain FinTech Bay, as one of the founding partners, to strengthen Bahrain’s position as a leading financial and economic centre in the region and a hub for innovation.”

Having been awarded a Tamkeen Labour Fund tender, Nest intends to drive business ecosystem growth by running various corporate innovation programmes and sharing ecosystem insights such as the Gateway Gulf Report. As a pioneer of the corporate accelerator programme model, Nest has helped over 140 start-ups grow their businesses.

Majid Al Futtaim Group Reaps Benefits Majid Al Futtaim, which operates City Centre Bahrain, announced its preliminary and unaudited operational and financial results for the first six months of the year.

Overall group revenue rose by 13 per cent to BD1.8 billion and EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) grew by four per cent to BD215 million. The group’s assets are valued at approximately BD6.2 billion, with a net debt of around BD1.1 billion.

This financial growth has been attributed to the group’s efforts to expand and diversify, alongside its operational excellence. CEO Alain Bejjani says: “Our financial results in the first half of the year demonstrate continued growth in the midst of challenging market conditions. Our resilience is strengthened by strategic investments that will future-proof our business and people for the changing world around us.”

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Serving Humanity with Technology The Arabian Gulf University (AGU) is set to participate in the third Technical Creativity in Charitable Work Conference and Exhibition, which will take place on October 28 and 29. Held under the theme ‘Adapting Technology to Serve Humanity’, it will showcase the best initiatives in the field of charity and humanitarian work in the Arab world, alongside methods for adapting technology in the

development of charitable endowments.

On the first day of the exhibition, Dr Odeh Al-Jayyousi, who heads the Department of Innovation and Technology Management at the College of Graduate Studies of AGU, will speak on the role of innovation in making philanthropy and humanitarian work sustainable, in addition to the role of technology and creativity in the transformation of society, as well as other topics.

Celebrating Dreamy Flights The Kingdom’s national carrier, Gulf Air, celebrated the introduction of its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner double-daily service to and from London. A celebratory event was hosted at the Arts Club in Mayfair, London, attended by dignitaries and big names in the industry, where information was shared regarding Gulf Air’s latest products and services.

Gulf Air’s new 787-9 Dreamliner double-daily service connects London’s Heathrow and Bahrain International Airport. Regional passengers can seamlessly connect via Bahrain to London while UK-based travellers can fly non-stop to Bahrain.

Reynaers Awarded Major Contract Reynaers Aluminium will supply aluminium systems, mainly comprising the ES 50 series of doors and the CW 50-SC curtain wall series, for the 46-storey Al Tijaria Tower, set to be one of the tallest residential towers in Bahrain. Designed and supervised by Arab architects, Al Tijaria Tower will take urban development in the country to a new level.

The Eco System 50 door (ES 50) is a wellinsulated flush door system that combines

Bahrain to Host Banking Event The World Islamic Banking Conference (WIBC) will be held in Bahrain under the patronage of the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Running from November 26 to 28, at the ART Rotana Hotel in Amwaj Islands, the event will attract renowned Islamic banking and finance leaders from around the world.

It will mark the 25th anniversary of the WIBC, which is a testament to its continued significance as a trusted benchmark for the industry to gather and share critical insights going forward. According to Ehsan Abbas, chairman, Middle East Global Advisors (MEGA), WIBC was established in 1993 as the premier platform for connecting professionals with topical insight and intelligence across many industries and countries.

With a focus on the possible ways in which the financial sector can be strengthened by Islamic finance, the conference will include governors’ addresses, panel discussions, a debate, and discussion of issues on Shari’a standards and practices. aesthetic design and energy efficiency. It matches the ES 50 window system, and complies with burglar resistance Class 2, offering a safe and secure solution both for residential constructions and utility buildings.

The Concept Wall 50 Structural Clamped (CW 50-SC) is a facade and roof system that offers virtually unlimited design freedom and allows maximum transparency.

IKEA is Here The much-awaited IKEA Bahrain store was due to open as we went to press. The huge development at Salmabad hosted media and invited guests for a pre-opening event at the end of August and unconfirmed reports say the store will open on September 5. It will include the biggest IKEA market hall in the region where customers can find everything www.bahrainthismonth.com

from rugs to linens, picture frames to clocks, kitchen accessories to home lighting and even unique gifts. And, as well as the extensive showroom, there is a large restaurant where shoppers can enjoy breakfast, beverages and meal dishes, both Swedish and local, as well as a smaller bistro serving shawarmas and the IKEA food store offering Swedish staples.

September 2018 105

Get your favourite partner anytime at www.redhousemarketing.com

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lifestylewhat'snew

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

An Alluring Scent Amouage introduces Love Tuberose, a new fragrance within The Secret Garden Collection. This new romantic and floral fragrance blends the warmth of gardenia, tuberose and jasmine, with tender notes of vanilla and chantilly cream, and a musky base of cedarwood and sandalwood.

Available at Amouage, City Centre Bahrain.

Shimmer and Shine Michael Kors launches a new jewellery collection made from sterling silver, semi-precious stones, sparkling accents and luxe plating in 14-carat gold, rose gold and rhodium. Timeless and rich in detail, feminine necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings can be worn separately or stacked together for versatility.

Available at Michael Kors, City Centre Bahrain.

Raise Your Profile NARS introduces the NARSissist Wanted Cheek Palettes, a selection of 12 new blush shades in two limited-edition palettes. Brighten up with cool corals and pops of pink, or go bold with radiant reds and deep raspberry in matte, satin and shimmer finishes. The silkysmooth formula provides blendable application.

Available exclusively at Sephora, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

Fashion Savvy Add a little fun to your daily attire with Emporio Armani’s Autumn-Winter 2018-19 collection. The women’s line plays with the ‘loading’ icon to add personality and character. Say It with Emoticons is the men’s special emoticon-inspired collection. These fun expressions add flair to clothing, watches and sunglasses.

Available at Emporio Armani, City Centre Bahrain and Moda Mall. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Stylish and Feminine Marks & Spencer’s AW18 Modest Collection offers contemporary wardrobe essentials mixed with statement pieces. The 40-piece line is the biggest to date, featuring defined colour palettes and silhouettes. Think rich magentas and emerald greens, and a modern take on shirt dresses and tunics with feminine floral prints.

Available at Marks & Spencer, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

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

LED Potion Desk Lamp A touch-activated, colour-changing desk lamp that is powered by mana-micro USB – ideal for science lovers and RPG (role-playing game) fans. With each tap, the lamp has different modes: red, green, blue, as well as a gradual fade across the spectrum. Simply plug this gadget in to let the magic begin.

Available at www.amazon.com

Pokémon Headphones with Mic Practical and cute – a must-have accessory for all Pokémon fans. These wired headphones enable you to answer phone calls, and are equipped with an inline microphone and one-button controller for calls and music.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

Marvel Groot USB Charger Charge your phone with the cutest little dancing pot in the galaxy. This gadget will charge your phone and any compatible device so long as you have the cable, offering two 2.1amp USB charging ports and a bopping Groot that sits in your cup-holder.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

Supernova Sphere Ever-changing galaxies encompassed within a sphere. This gadget alternates between modes of pattern and colour to recreate a supernova, including four modes of lighting, as well as gradual and fastpaced colour transitions. Comes with a power adapter and LED light bulb.

Available at www.thinkgeek.co.uk

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Vizor Glasses Pro This virtual reality headset brings together the real-world and futuristic sci-fi. Compatible with most smartphone devices, the Vizor Glasses Pro provide 360-degree viewing, along with comfort and practicality. Download virtual reality apps from the app store or search for virtual reality videos on YouTube to experience another world.

Available at www.menkind.co.uk

www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylegadgets

Star Wars Mighty Minis Darth Vader Both a charger and a USB in the form of a mini action figure, fuelled by AA batteries. This gadget is small, handy, and provides up to three extra hours of battery life whilst being able to transfer all your computer files.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

Minecraft Redstone Wall Torch This redstone torch can stand upright on flat surfaces or be mounted on walls. With dimensions of 12 inches tall by four-anda-half inches wide, the torch is powered by three AAA batteries, and can be deactivated by the on/off button on the side.

Available at www.amazon.com

Borderlands Claptrap Talking USB Hub A four-port USB that charges and transfers data, compatible with any USB charging device so long as you have the cable. Every time the hub is connected or you interact with one of the ports, you will be greeted by one of five phrases from Claptrap, from the Borderlands video games series.

Available at www.amazon.com

Star Trek TOS Phaser-controlled Rock Mood Light A rock-like shell with an LED inside that comes with an IR remote shaped as a Type 1 phaser. In ‘survival mode’, pressing and holding the remote will trigger firing sounds, making the rock glow red.

In ‘atmosphere mode’ the rock can light up one of seven colours. Suitable with AAA batteries for remote, and AA batteries or USB charging for rock.

Available at www.amazon.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ZUS Puppy-proof Superduty Charging Cable This highly durable USB cable can withstand crushing, tossing, animals and toddlers. Protected with Aramid fibre, nylon braiding keeps the cable tangle-free.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

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lifestylemusic

The Coral – Move Through the Dawn What’s the story?

After coming back from a hiatus with 2016’s Distance Inbetween, a heavy, guitar-based album that re-established The Coral and expanded their sound from their usual ‘60s worship to include some sounds from the ‘70s, the Coral did what they do best on their next record and made a creative left turn. Move Through the Dawn gets rid of the furious guitar soloing, the pounding rhythms that felt like they were forged in a foundry, and the free-flowing arrangements that relied on lots of first takes to get a live feel. Instead, most of the record has the carefully constructed feel of an 1980s’ production, with clipped drums, layered acoustic and electric guitars, and sonic touches like Mellotron and super-clean vocal harmonies.

Worth a listen?

Despite the new tricks The Coral proudly display on the record, they haven’t totally forsaken their old ways, and some of the songs break free just a bit from the modern studio techniques. The mystical ballad Eyes of the Moon has their trademark ramble and nicely ghostly background sounds, Outside My Window heads back to the late ‘60s for some murky nocturnal psych, Stormbreaker brings the power and heaviness back into the mix, and After the Fair is a very pretty acoustic ballad that shows the band members at their tenderest.

Verdict: A pulse-pounding rock album.

These non-pop moments help balance the rest of the album’s almost oppressive catchiness and remind the listener that The Coral are a gently weird band who like to stay elusive.

Shorts

Jake Shears – Jake Shears

The Beths – Future Me Hates Me

Louis Cole – Time

As with the band he fronts, Scissor Sisters, on his own, Jake Shears is still a master of pairing downcast lyrics with upbeat music.

Sad Song Backwards features a twangy arrangement with lyrics about shock therapy with deceptively catchy results.

Even when he reveals more of his sadness, it’s still in vibrant colour; as he opens up on the finale, Mississippi Delta (I’m Your Man), he describes himself as a “necromancer with perfect glowing skin”. As befits a selftitled album, all the moves Shears makes – both familiar and new – feel true to him.

Funny, flashy, and not so secretly recovering from heartbreak, Jake Shears is one of the tightest sets of music he’s made.

The Beths may have been founded by jazz majors at the University of Auckland, but they quickly built their reputation in the clubs of Australia and their native New Zealand for an impulsive, infectious indie rock. Inspired, at least in large part, by the punk-pop of their childhood, they rely on energised guitar riffs, melodic hooks, and multi-part vocal harmonies. It’s a formula presented in spades on their full-length debut Future Me Hates Me, beginning with the outright banger Great No One.

A handful of hyperactive and robust numbers are placed throughout, instrumentally worthy of onomatopoeic, fusion-style titles like Skippedy Blip and Bloop de Bloop. Cole can deliver elegant, heartfelt material with an equal level of skill, as on Everytime, which might as well be a demo intended for a sad Disney theme.

Overall, Cole offers his own twist on elegant sorrow, exemplifying his sneaky way with stirring emotions.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestylegames

The Walking Dead: A Telltale Game Series – The Final Season Verdict: A fun, storyfuelled experience.

Rating:

What is it?

The Walking Dead: The Final Season is an episodic adventure game developed by Telltale Games, and the fourth main game in their The Walking Dead video game series, based on Robert Kirkman’s comic book series of the same name. It is the concluding story involving Clementine, and will take place some years after the events of The Walking Dead: A New Frontier.

Gameplay

If you’ve played one of Telltale’s previous Walking Dead games, or the company’s similar games based on Batman, Game of Thrones, or Guardians of the Galaxy, you know what to expect here: interactive, episodic storytelling, with a heavy emphasis on brutally difficult decisions with unforeseen consequences later down the road.

Occasionally, a quick-time action sequence will pop up to break up the pattern, but other than that, it’s largely moral dilemmas and relationship-building, with divergent paths designed to make each player feel like they’re driving the narrative.

We Happy Few

We Happy Few is the tale of a plucky bunch of moderately terrible people trying to escape from a lifetime of cheerful denial. Set in a retro-futuristic city in an alternative 1960s England – a city ravaged by war and rebuilt by delusionally happy people – you’ll have to blend in with its other inhabitants, who don’t take kindly to people who don’t abide by their not-so-normal rules. Unveil its dark history, and discover how and why its residents came to be so beguilingly happy. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Graphics

The graphics have been updated to echo the visual design of the comics more closely. The effect is subtle, but striking, and this is easily the best-looking game Telltale has ever released. Also, Clementine can collect cosmetic items to decorate her bedroom, and there’s something satisfying about surrounding yourself with all the trophies you’ve picked up along the way.

Marvel’s Spider-Man

Starring one of the world’s most iconic Super Heroes, Marvel’s Spider-Man features the acrobatic abilities, improvisation and webslinging that the wall-crawler is famous for, while also introducing elements never-beforeseen in a Spider-Man game. Mix and match a varied set of evolved combat mechanics, including melee, aerial combat, webs, stealth, and unique high-tech gadgets that highlight Spider-Man’s boundless acrobatic agility and active combat style.

Madden NFL 19

The 2018-19 entry in EA Sports’ venerable American football game franchise, Madden NFL 19 is set to take the digital game to new heights with features like Real Player Motion and game-changing control and responsiveness. This season is set to build on the success of previous iterations with added depth to community favourite game modes like Madden Ultimate Team and Connected Franchise.

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lifestylewebsites

BSPCA Quiz Night

VERDICT: Useful website to help improve writing.

BSPCA held its quiz night at Celluloid in Amwaj Lagoon.

Debbie, Dev & Cat

Site: www.hemingwayapp.com Rating: What is it?

Shawn & Ralph

Ryan & Chantalle

Hemingway Editor is a great tool for writers of all ages to explore their writer’s voice, while becoming a stronger writer. The site identifies common writing errors such as difficult-to-read sentences and word usage that could be simplified. Simply write on the website or copy and paste previously written pieces. Once turned into editing mode, it will identify general writing mistakes.

The Good

Aspiring writers of all ages will be fascinated by this editing website, seeing where changes need to be made to improve their writing. The site design is simplistic, yet engaging, and instructions on how to use it are very clear.

Wilhelm, Chad, Kurth & Jonathan

The Bad

The site only states what to change, not why to change it. It could do a better job of explaining why certain changes should be made so users learn from their mistakes.

https://camp.withgoogle.com/

Julian, Tony & Marike

Bob & Kate

Camp Google is a website designed to help kids learn about various topics ranging from music to space Rachael & Kevin

Jackie & May

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Trish & Jonathan

Irene & Mark

to the oceans. The topics change on a weekly basis, and students are provided a series of assignments based on lessons in each topic. The site content mixes videos, written descriptions, and hands-on activities kids can try at home to illustrate scientific concepts. Each item is designed to answer a question, which helps make the intent and subject matter clear.

www.lessonface.com

Lessonface is a website that offers live online music lessons to students of all ages and levels. All the major instruments are represented, as are some unique choices such as the dulcimer and didgeridoo. Setting up lessons is smooth and simple; the process of searching for a teacher also is intuitive. Students can learn

at their own pace as teachers provide live feedback as well as emailed summaries of lessons and practice assignments. www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyleapps

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

App: Duet Display for iPad Rating: Verdict: A simple way to add a second screen to your laptop.

What is it?

Duet Display uses the Apple iPad or iPhone you’re already carrying as an additional screen for your laptop on the road. Desk dwellers know the joys of using dual displays, especially while monitoring social media feeds, stock tickers, or any sort of status indicators. This iPad app works well in a pinch, or even full time if your laptop is beefy enough.

The Good

It automatically adds touch functionality to the second screen, something which is unavailable on a normal laptop screen. It is also compatible with both Windows and Mac laptops, while the second screen processes and loads almost instantly with no lag.

The Bad

The screen resolution is too low on an iPhone. It’s usable, but it’s

distracting enough to be off-putting. Duet Display also doesn’t work with the original iPad model, which is annoying for those still using them.

App: Pear Personal Coach

App: Todoist

The Pear Personal Coach app is among the best fitness apps you’ll find for Android and iOS. The app has a wealth of workout routines: everything from outdoor runs to at-home resistance training, and each has an audio track of a real coach who talks you through the motions.

You can pipe in your own music, too, which dials down automatically whenever the coach is speaking. The app works best when you wear a heart rate monitor, though it’s not required. There’s even a calibration workout, a run that finds your lactic threshold and customises your heart rate training in all the workouts based on your personalised number.

Todoist is both a mobile app and a web app with a browser plug-in that allows you to keep your to-dos in sync across multiple devices. It has a clean and simple interface that is easy to grasp and organise accordingly. There is an array of task-management features that means you should never miss an appointment. It also works offline based on your most recent schedule.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2018 113

lifestylemovies

Mission: Impossible – Fallout Film: Mission: Impossible

– Fallout Rating: Directed By: Christopher McQuarrie Starring: Tom Cruise, Henry Cavill, Simon Pegg

The Plot

Two years after Ethan Hunt had successfully captured Solomon Lane, the remnants of the Syndicate have reformed into another organisation called the Apostles.

Under the leadership of a mysterious fundamentalist known only as John Lark, the organisation is planning on acquiring three plutonium cores. Ethan and his team are sent to Berlin to intercept them, but the mission fails when Ethan saves Luther and the Apostles escape with the plutonium. With CIA agent August Walker joining the team, Ethan and his allies must now find the plutonium cores before it’s too late.

Worth Watching?

VERDICT: An exceptional action film.

Some things age like fine wine and in the cinematic world the Mission: Impossible franchise is a great example of the adage.

Perhaps it has to do with the 56-year-old Tom Cruise who defies age and pushes his physical boundaries for our viewing pleasure? The answer is quite evident in Fallout as his Ethan Hunt is as good as a

Small Foot

An animated adventure for all ages, with original music and an all-star cast, Small Foot turns a myth upside down when a bright young yeti finds something he thought didn’t exist – a human.

News of Small Foot throws the simple yeti community into an uproar over what else might be out there in the big world beyond their snowy village, in an all new story about friendship, courage and the joy of discovery.

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caped superhero in the sixth film of the series. Fallout manages to build on the previous films in the series by bringing back old friends and foes, besides adding some new ones.

Mission: Impossible – Fallout is a great mix of plot, pacing and performances that is undeniably the best entry in the franchise, while it re-establishes Cruise’s status as an action superstar.

The Nun

When a young nun at a cloistered abbey in Romania takes her own life, a priest with a haunted past and a novitiate on the threshold of her final vows are sent by the Vatican to investigate. Together they uncover the order’s unholy secret.

Risking not only their lives but their faith and their very souls, they confront a malevolent force in the form of the same demonic nun that first terrorised audiences in The Conjuring 2, as the abbey becomes a horrific battleground between the living and the damned.

City of Lies

LAPD Detective Russell Poole (Johnny Depp) and reporter Jack Johnson (Forest Whitaker) team up after 20 years to solve the murder of Tupac and Biggie. Based on the book LAbyrinth by Randall Sullivan, the two men attempt not only to solve the two murders, but to also uncover the conspiracy behind the cover up.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Movie Mania

lifestylefilmreleases

From animations to thriller to drama, September has a host of new releases to indulge in. Suzanne Nicholas brings you the top picks of the month – check them out!

Peppermint

A Simple Favour

Assassination Nation

Life Itself

The House with a Clock in Its Walls

The Sisters Brothers

Night School

Little Women

Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller Release Date: September 7 A horrific attack kills a young mother’s (Jennifer Garner) husband and daughter, leaving her with a vengeance when the justice systems fails her. Peppermint is the story of a brave, daring woman with nothing to lose, who takes matters into her own hands in a quest for justice.

Genre: Family, Fantasy, Horror Release Date: September 21 Recently orphaned 10-year-old, Lewis Barnavelt, wishes for a normal life when he goes to live with his uncle, but what he finds is anything but that. Lewis (Owen Vacarro), Uncle Jonathan (Jack Black) and Mrs Zimmerman (Cate Blanchett) team up to stop a powerful clock with the ability to end the world.

Genre: Mystery Thriller Release Date: September 14 Mum and vlogger, Stephanie Ward (Anna Kendrick), attempts to solve the mystery-cloaked disappearance of her wealthy friend, Emily Nelson (Blake Lively).

Based on the novel with the same name, by Darcey Bell, drama, betrayal and deceit are likely to run rampant throughout the movie and will leave you intrigued till the very end.

Genre: Dark Comedy Release Date: September 21 The Sisters Brothers follows Eli and Charlie Sisters, two hitmen brothers, hired to kill a prospector who has stolen from their boss.

Based on the famous novel by Patrick Dewitt, and starring John C Reilly, Joaquin Phoenix and Jake Gyllenhaal, this film is chosen to premiere at the Venice Film Festival 2018.

Genre: Thriller Release Date: September 21 Having premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January, Assassination Nation is to hit cinemas with a bang. Salem high school friends band together for survival when a malicious data hack exposes destructive secrets that threaten to tear the town apart, as they search for the lawbreaker responsible.

Genre: Comedy Release Date: September 28 Ride Along and Central Intelligence star, Kevin Hart, plays a misfit student among others who have to attend night school in order to attain their GED. With Tiffany Haddish playing the role of his teacher, the duo in this original comedy might actually make it big during opening week.

Genre: Drama, Romance Release Date: September 21 Covering different generations of people from New York, America and Carmona, Spain, Life Itself is a story of the intertwining of people’s journeys in seemingly insignificant, yet intriguing ways. This multigenerational story sees various notable actors assuming the roles of people living different, complicated lives with a general theme of love.

Genre: Drama, Family Release Date: September 28 On the 150th anniversary of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women, Hollywood brings you a modernday retelling of four sisters wholly committed to each other. The film follows the siblings from childhood to womanhood, detailing the journey, throughout which their love for each other never wavers, even in the face of tragedy.

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

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lifestyletravel Clockwise from left: Bibliotheca Alexandrina; Koshari; Stanley bridge; Qaitbay castle cart; Waterfront promenade; Egyptian street food

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyletravel

A City of Myths and Legends A beautiful location on the Mediterranean Sea, shrouded by history and culture, Alexandria is a city that will charm most travel enthusiasts. Direct flights from Bahrain are perfect to satiate the curious voyager in you.

Extending a good 32km or so along the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria, the second largest city in Egypt, is a popular vacation spot. Cloaked in history, it lures the wandering tourist in with promises of historical sights, stories of a mythical beginning, and some modern additions.

If you’re seeking knowledge and culture, the circular, tilting Bibliotheca Alexandrina is an architectural masterpiece worth visiting.

Housing over four million volumes of books, this 11-storey building also includes several museums, a planetarium, and conservation facilities, at which you can while away a good part of an afternoon.

Qaitbay Castle makes for a pleasant visit and a great background for photographs while you join the crowd in enjoying the view of the sea, and the dining spots and ice cream shops that run along the street to the castle. If visiting libraries and castles do not line up with your idea of a holiday, fret not, as there are many hotels that run along Alexandria’s waterfront for you to indulge in a little R&R. On a pleasant day, after a tour of the royal quarters of the Montazah Palace, have a picnic on the hill, atop which the palace sits, overlooking a gorgeous Alexandrian beach. A stroll down Stanley Bridge amid the evening lights, admiring its four towers of Islamic design, is sure to lift the spirits. There are a number of coffee shops nearby to enjoy a panoramic view of the bridge.

Savour a popular Egyptian street food, tameya (falafel) on your excursions around the city. If you get a chance, grab a quick plate of koshari, the official national Egyptian dish. Guiltlessly cheat on your diet for an impressive selection of desserts at the Brew and Chew.

Although Alexandria is a four-season destination, Egypt’s weather is at its best starting in October, so a visit then is definitely worth considering.

Direct flights through Gulf Air operate three times a week.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Rotary Club Meeting The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya held its regular meeting with guest speaker, Amal Kooheji, at The Golden Tulip Hotel.

Rotary members at the meeting

Marwa & Amal

Jamil, Dr Harb & Yazan

Abdul Rahman & Abdulla Juma

Phillippe

Birthday Party Angel celebrated his birthday party with the theme of goddesses and fairies.

Rosh, Grace, Sharel, Angel, Reina, Lia, Rosa, Malou & Pia

Reina, Hussain, Angel & Sayed

Anne, Angel & George

Star

Angel & Catherine

Jovie, Kristine, Rosette, Juna, Love, Emilyn & Jasmine

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Rosa, Noreen, Lily, Angel & Rabina

Pipoy, Allen, Angel, Mike & Venice

Pia, Gayle, Angel & Kath

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander Other Events

TFE signed an agreement with Sain Bag from Oman to bring organic and 100% biodegradable and compostable environmental friendly bags made out of cassava starch from Indonesia to Bahrain.

City Centre Bahrain announced the 10 final winners of its Eid Al Adha ‘Happy Eidiya’ giveaway who received mall gift cards worth BD500 each.

CrediMax donated BD2,000 to Bahrain Women Union as part of its corporate responsibilities during a handover ceremony at its headquarters.

Saar Mall, in partnership with the Bokhowa Group and in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, selected 37 candidates for its Internship Programme.

As part of BFC’s corporate social responsibility, RS35 lakhs was donated to the Kerala Chief Minister’s distress relief fund.

INJAZ Bahrain sent a delegation of alumni students, sponsored by Tamkeen, to participate in the first Global JA Worldwide Youth Forum held in Morelos, Mexico.

Kerala Catholic Association celebrated Indian Independence Day with a flag hoisting ceremony at its premises.

A press conference was held to announce the launch of OTOME Records in Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAS honoured 13 employees who successfully completed a one-year specialised accounting and tax training course.

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lifestyletarotscope

VIRGO

August 23 – September 22 The battle is on as you seek to stamp your authority on a project against some very stiff and competitive opposition. If doubts arise, stand strong because the opportunity for you to impress will lead to better things and even a possible promotion. If your endeavours are of a more creative nature, then there may be a chance to showcase your latest work with rewarding consequences. All of this leads to financial gains, and whilst money doesn’t buy you happiness, it certainly gives you the chance to do what you want.

Card of the Month —Page of Pentacles

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 An unfounded sense of overconfidence will backfire on you this month when you discover that a decision you had been counting on going your way, in fact turns against you. A consideration of where you stand and what you might now achieve in your long-term goals should be addressed. You may be best advised to cut your losses and try hard to begin a new chapter in your life.

Stubbornness will only lead to further difficulty for you in the future.

Card of the Month — Five of Cups

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 19 September is the month when many of you should finally wake up to the world you are living in and perhaps begin to take responsibility for your own actions – especially in the area of love. Although you could be blamed for being a little naïve when it comes to matters of romance, even the most sheltered of you must realise that if you have a partner, he or she needs some attention now and again. Your biggest crime recently has been one of neglect, and now could be the time when such selfishness backfires on you.

Card of the Month — Ace of Swords

AQUARIUS January 20 – February 18 Change is sweeping through your life this month and such movement inevitably means new opportunities as well as the permanent closure of doors that have, up till now, been so often open to you. The end of a long-term friendship could hit you harder than you first anticipated as someone close moves away. This departure may act as the catalyst for a new train of thought that forces

For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

LIBRA September 23 – October 22 An unplanned monetary outlay could leave your finances seriously stretched this month as you are forced to come to terms with a lot more spending than you might at first have realised. Take care who you speak to for advice as dishonesty spills from the mouths of many involved. The shadow of a past indiscretion may rear its head in September and explanations will have to be delivered quickly if they are to be believed and accepted. Be sure not to forget loved ones around the 30th or you may regret it later.

Card of the Month — Ten of Pentacles

SCORPIO October 23 – November 21 Fortunes are high in September as events in your life improve significantly on previous months and the promise of new opportunities fills you with renewed confidence. If you are contemplating or indeed having any work done within the house, shop around. Hidden extras could leave a simple-looking job carrying a hefty final price tag. On a more personal note, you should watch a child, if travelling, as one moment of absent thought could give you a brief but unnerving scare.

Card of the Month — Queen of Swords 120 September 2018

you into serious analysis over your own existence and what you do next.

Card of the Month — Two of Pentacles

PISCES February 19 – March 20 Keep your secrets safe if you must keep them at all – especially where a loved one is involved. If you have a separate agenda outside your relationship with your partner, it is too late to reveal all, so the best advice would be to wind it down and then bury it in the past. If you leave it there then no one will get hurt. However, choosing to continue the pursuit suggests you should beware – you are on very dangerous ground! The omens are not good and a revelation with an uncomfortable outcome awaits you.

Card of the Month — Six of Wands

ARIES March 21 – April 19 Balance has finally been returned to your love life and, after a turbulent time, you seem to have rediscovered the passion that was absent for large parts of the year. Getting here hasn’t come without sacrifices and there may still be a small pang of regret over the difficult times you’ve had to endure, but now that all the dust has settled, you can’t deny this is where your heart needs to be. At work a new and exciting challenge comes your way, and while you may feel a little nervous at the scale of it, park the fear and you will succeed.

Card of the Month — Two of Cups www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyleadvertisersindex TAURUS April 20 – May 20 Many of you will be moving into unknown territories this month with much of the focus around new relationships – both at home and at work. Those of you who are undertaking a new romance should be careful not to allow your hearts to run away with matters because you are still clearly only in the honeymoon period. At work, you could find a colleague who initially came across as obstructive but turns out to be a very useful ally, and he will be key to the success of a project you intend to implement.

Card of the Month — Two of Wands

GEMINI May 21 – June 20 September looks like being the month when that particular purchase you have been after finally makes itself available to you. It could be that a relative leaves you some money or even that an investment matures. Whatever the reason, you will soon find that you will be treating yourself to a shopping excursion. On a more serious note, you should beware anyone seeking to take advantage of your good fortune, especially if it is a relative who is playing on your good nature.

Card of the Month — Ace of Cups

CANCER June 21 – July 22 You will probably be in a reflective mood this month and relationships are high on the agenda, especially those that appear to have struck a dead end. If you feel that your marriage or partnership has perhaps lost its sparkle, then why not try setting aside a weekend where the two of you can rekindle the embers that still exist. A contented heart will go a long way towards allowing you to appreciate the other areas of your life, so make the move before it’s too late.

Card of the Month — The Hermit

LEO July 23 – August 22 September is the month of reconciliation and a return to the attitudes and ideas of your past as you set about putting your emotional life in order. However, don’t fall into the trap of believing that things will be as they were, because you will be disappointed. You have been a little selfish with your emotions and some people have moved on from where you left them. What you should aim for is a more generous and understanding attitude – one that many of the people around you are more likely to remember you for.

Card of the Month — Queen of Pentacles

Fashion & Footwear

Others

Orsay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Al Dana Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Al Rashid Group (Centerpoint) . . . . . . 13

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

Salma Hayek

Keanu Reeves

Cameron Diaz

Berlitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Hotels & Serviced Residences

DHL International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . 103

Everest Trading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Fraser Suites:Diplomatic Area . . . . . . 25

Farhat International Tours & Travel . 41

Gulf Hotels Co. (Gulf Court Hotel) . . . 19

G4S Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Gulf Hotels Co.(Gulf Hotel) . . . . . . . . . . 4

House of Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Inspire Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Park Regis Lotus Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . IFC Starwood Hotels (The Westin) . . . . . . 6 The Arch Hotel (Eleven Club) . . . . . . . 43 The Arch Hotel (Fizz/Maxx) . . . . . . . . 45

Medical & Dental Services American Mission Hospital . . . . . . . . 39 Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 47 Middle East Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Motoring

Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 MAF Investments Bahrain (Carrefour) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Mega Mart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Pegasus Real Estate (Adventure Hub) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 SOJ Bahrain (Nespresso) . . . . . . . . . . 65 Zu’bi & Partners Attorneys & Legal Consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Restaurants & Cafés Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Mawasim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Miam Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Show Shha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . 67

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

Behbehani Brothers Co. (Porsche) . . BC

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge

Mohd Jalal & Sons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

(Gastropub) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

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

FAMOUS VIRGO THIS MONTH

AMA International School . . . . . . . . . 35 Bahrain Financing Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

● 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.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2018 121

lifestylewinwin Bahrain This Month gives one lucky reader an exclusive chance to win the latest fragrance from Amouage – Love Tuberose!

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions.

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Bahrain This Month received 109 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

Which Bahraini band launched its new album this month? ______________________________________________

Winner : Joyce Fernandes Second Place : Margaret Coutinho Third Place : Nelson Menezes

Which rocking tribute band visited The Gulf Hotel? ______________________________________________ What is the name of the BWC Art Exhibition? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

When did Bahrain become a Kingdom? ______________________________________________ Which Indian restaurant in Adliya has a gastropub on the rooftop? ______________________________________________ What was the grand prize in Talabat’s weekly raffle draw? ______________________________________________ What kind of cuisine does Furn Bistro & Bakery at The Westin City Centre Bahrain serve? ______________________________________________

Name:

Address:

What is the financial incentive with Al Haddad Motors’ back-to-school promotion? ______________________________________________

Email:

7

Open Now from 12 Noon

10

Drinks | Sports

1. Haven Spa/Fraser Suites 2. Emporio Armani

3. Rainforest Lounge/

Gulf Suites Hotel - Amwaj 4. Show Shha Indian Restaurant

How many Porsche Macans have been delivered since 2014? ______________________________________________

es Night Everyday 9

Ad Seek:

1. Tubli Bay 2. Didier Blin 3. Casanova 4. August 15 5. Shanthosh 6. Austria 7. Goodwood Festival of Speed, Chichester, England 8. Antalya 9. Darseen Café 10. Kyrgyzstan

Telephone:

CPR: Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

What is the starting price of the new 2019 MercedesBenz E 200?

AD Seek

Watch sports on from a advertisements in this issue of Bahrain This Month. All you have to This is a fun game for all readers. Each of theselive pictures is taken giant 5x3 mtr LED screen do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

thur sept

ying Every night “

f Country, more..”

RICH HOMIE 1.

romotions/queries

The real Indian experience!

Live in Bahrain

Quan

2.

Call 66705584 / 66705583 for current promotions or queries

3.

4.

W Signature Collection by Best Western. Building 1118,Road 2419,Block 324,Juffair,Bahrain. Tel: 17116611 www.archhotelbahrain.com 122 September 2018

Tel: +973 33063074 / 13114556 | Block 324, Road 2426 Bldg 1565 | Juffair, Kingdom of Bahrain K www.showshha.com | E Show Shha Restaurant C @showshhabh WWW

www.bahrainthismonth.com