Bahrain This Month - April 2017

PROPERTY FEATURE | SPORTS CARS | INDIAN RESTAURANTS

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

F1 Fever!

Interviews

• Racing Shaikhs • Events Round-Up • Dining Offers

• Paul Geadah

A Healing Touch

The Bike Enthusiast

Picture Perfect

• Hasan Buhusain • Jalil Al Hayki

Happenings

• Tom Jones in Bahrain • Photography Festival • Trib Fest Returns • Expos Galore

April 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 4

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

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Issue 236

Contents April 2017 HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during April 2017: 24

Tom Jones in Bahrain

The renowned Welsh singer will perform as part of Spring of Culture.

26

Inaugural Festival

The first Bahrain Photographic Festival.

28 Spartan

38

Arabia Race

Three races that will push competitors to the limit.

30 Easter

Egg Hunt

A basket-load of great activities.

32 Property

Expo Bigger Than Ever

Gulf Property Show 2017 returns.

34 Gulf

Jazz

American jazz/soul singer and pianist, Karen Edwards, will perform in Bahrain.

After Dark 35 Ibiza

24

28

Style

Head down to the beach for the official Café Del Mar World Tour.

F1 FEATURE 36-42

A special feature capturing the race fever, with a roundup of the hottest happenings around town.

44

INTERVIEWS Healing Hands

Paul Geadah talks about his remarkable healing journey and the power of universal energy.

46

44

50

The Romance of Hospitality Richard Raab, the new man at Four Seasons, elaborates on the uniqueness of the brand.

48

Expansion is on the Cards

Ramzi Barakat reveals National Motor Company’s ambitious plans for 2017.

50

On Your Bike

BTM chats with motorcycle enthusiast, Hasan Buhusain, about his hobby project.

52

56

59 Bystander This Month’s Bystander pages captured various happenings including the Bahrain International Garden Show, BBBF’s business networking event, the AmCham MENA Forum and Spring of Culture events. Our snappers were also seen at the St Patrick’s Day Ball, the Bahrain Food Festival and various other soirees at the Kingdom’s major hotels.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Picture Perfect

Jalil Al Hayki on the activities and achievements of the Bahrain Photo Club.

54

Grooming Global Citizens

ASU president, Professor Ghassan F Aouad, outlines exciting new developments.

56

The Beauty Doctor

German-trained specialist, Dr Raniah, explains new options in beauty treatments.

FEATURES

58-60 Property

Review

A brief overview of the property and rental markets in Bahrain.

64-65 2017

Sports Vehicles

The latest offerings and services available from leading dealerships on the island.

April 2017 5

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Issue 236

Contents April 2017 66

Motoring

A Corporate Handover

Al Haddad Motors held a ceremony to deliver 10 new V-Class vehicles to City Limo.

A Racy Number

71

Take a look at the new BMW 5 Series Touring.

65

73 A

Sleek Sedan

The new 2017 Subaru Impreza has arrived.

74 Motoring

News and Launches

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

Downtime

76 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 77 Apps: Essential apps 78 Music: Top Tunes

79 Computer Games: The hot games of the month 80 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 81 Movies: New releases

82

71

82

Dining

Chino-Latino Fusion

Puja Tiwari reviews the newly-opened restaurant Asia de Cuba at Gallery 21.

83

Extraordinary Culinary Choices

BTM samples some delectable treats from The Domain’s catering menu.

84

A Taste of Sunshine

Liz O’Reilly explores the culinary delights of Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne.

86

Great Grub

Charlie Holding checks out Grub Shack’s new location and menu.

88

Innovation Is on the Menu

The K Hotel’s new executive chef, Nitai Chand, talks about his passion for food.

90

Funky Culinary Offerings

Fast-casual diner YaSalam! opens another outlet at Hamala Hills.

92

84

86

An Enticing April

Check out Al Areen’s exciting line-up of events and promotions 100

Luxurious Gastronomy

Indulge in Sofitel’s delightful offers for the month of April.

103

Savings Galore

Take advantage of Ramee Rose Hotel’s various daily deals.

Indian Dining Feature 104-105

A round-up of the best places around town to sample Indian cuisine.

106 Table

107

78

Hopping

Showcase

What’s New: Must-have products 108-121 Marketplace: Latest products and services 122 Business Bites 107

Regulars

81 www.bahrainthismonth.com

79

125 WIN WIN 126 Tarotscope 127 AD Index 128 Last Word

April 2017 7

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THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month April 2017

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Editor Apple Sharma Contributors Charlie Holding, Behnaz Sanjana, Puja Tiwari

April in Bahrain means Formula 1 and we’re very excited about the return to the

Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian

island of the big race with its roaring engines, superstar drivers and the off-track entertainment, including big-name performers such as this year’s headliner

Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel

Photography Editor Mona Abdul Jabbar

Enrique Iglesias. Our main feature this month covers all things F1, from the history of the race to fun events at the BIC, in-town nightlife and dining and a chat with two up-and-coming Bahraini racers.

Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan

You could be forgiven for expecting the rest of the month to be quiet in comparison, but that’s not the case at all with the ongoing Spring of Culture

Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Kadambari S

bringing Sir Tom Jones to the island as well as guitar maestro Paco Renteria.

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Corporation

There’s also the Bahrain For All Festival, providing a full day of family-friendly entertainment, the Spartan Race and Tribfest returns to the rugby club. Find details of these and lots of other events in our extensive Happenings section.

Our interviewees this month include Jalal Al Hayki, who talks about the first Bahrain Photographic Festival. We also caught up with the new man at the helm of the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, Richard Raab, and motorcycle enthusiast, Hasan Buhusain, whose passion is renovating vintage models.

Extraordinary energy healer Paul Geadah tells how positive energy can cure ills and change lives and Professor Ghassan F Aouad outlines exciting new

Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

developments at the Applied Science University, which has teamed up with two UK counterparts.

Published monthly by

In keeping with the F1 theme, this month’s motoring section includes a roundup of some of the best sports vehicles available and the very lucky Charlie Holding gives his verdict on the McLaren 570S. We also take an in-depth look at the country’s ever-evolving property market 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

with one expert claiming rents are likely to come down as retail premises

© Copyright Reserved 2005-2014 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

different food festivals and various offers and events.

•

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

continue to open up.

In the dining section, we review relative newcomers Asia de Cuba, Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne and Grub Shack as well as bringing you news of three We have our regular round-up of film, music, app and game reviews and the latest offerings from around the island’s commercial and retail scene making this month’s issue, as ever, your guide to a great way of life.

COVER Cover Picture:

F1 Fever!

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.

PROPERTY FEATURE | SPORTS CARS | INDIAN RESTAURANTS

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

F1 Fever!

Interviews

• Racing Shaikhs • Events Round-Up • Dining Offers

• Paul Geadah

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

A Healing Touch

• Hasan Buhusain

Connect with Bahrain This Month:

The Bike Enthusiast

• Jalil Al Hayki

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

Picture Perfect

Happenings

• Tom Jones in Bahrain • Photography Festival • Trib Fest Returns • Expos Galore

April 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 4

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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

Nightlife

April 2017 9

bystander

Mohamed Salahuddin & Mazin Al Umran

Dena & Paula

Stephen

Business Networking

The Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) held a business networking lunch meeting with HE Shaikh Mohamed bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Oil, Gas and Energy, as VIP guest of honour and speaker at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel.

Khalid Al Zayani, HE Shaikh Mohamed bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa & HE Simon Martin Panos, Samy, Raymond, Manar & Maria

Hadi, Adran, Aisling & Estella

David & Ava

Jonathan & Trish

Adel Fakhroo

Bahrain International Garden Show

The Bahrain International Garden Show (BIGS) was inaugurated by HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of the King and President of the Consultative Council of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Jin Qian, wife of the Chinese ambassador, with staff of the Chinese Embassy

Chanda, Abdulrahman & Jolie

Sara, Noor & Hessa

10 April 2017

Fouad Al Jishi & Jaap

Mohammed, Abdulla & Ali

Eliza & Irina

Marwa, Hanoof & Sawsan

Amani & Ejlal

Ala & Ali

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bystander

Khalid Zayani & Shaikh Hesham

Amina & Nabila

AmCham MENA Forum

The opening ceremony of the AmCham MENA Regional Council’s Annual Forum: SMEs - Unlocking Economic Potential in the MENA Region, was held at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Hesham, Zahra, HE William Roebuck & Qays Zu’bi Dao M Le & Peter

Dina, Dunya, Hadeel & Amana

Jason, Heather & Sharon

Terry & Sana

Jerad & David

Manar & Sakina

Ahmed, Tarek & Malliam

part of the Spring of Culture 2017, the Japanese Embassy, in cooperation with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Japan Film Festival As Antiquities, hosted the Japan Film Festival 2017 at the Bahrain National Museum.

Motoko, Akito & Frederic

Hahn & Jung

12 April 2017

Kosei, Fukuda & Tashiro

Nabeel & Nasser Al Arayedh

Maria, Hilda & HE Hatun Demirer

Selina & Emlyn

Abdulrahman & Elie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Business Networking Luncheon Farouk Soussa & Qays Zu’bi

American Chamber of Commerce Bahrain held a business networking luncheon with Farouk Soussa, Citi’s chief economist for the Middle East, at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Steve, Farouk & Vineet

Panos, Daniel, Borak & Ramez

Abdulaziz & Usman

Formula 1 Press Conference

Daniel, Solveig, Helen & Jon

Sarah & Mohamed

Qays Zu’bi & Mary

Talal, Yahya, Sharif & Azza Mattar

Mohammed, Nadia, Farah, Fatema & Sarah

14 April 2017

Yousif & Hisham

The Bahrain International Circuit held a press conference to announce its plans for the 2017 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

Shaikh Salman, Tariq, Arif & Laurence

Ghassan, Tariq Safa & Arif Rahimi

Torbjorn, Mary & Roger

Ayda, Shak, Fatema & Asif

Burak & Ziad

Mayadah, Kaltham, Leyla & Mohammed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Business Delegation Dinner

HE Shaikh Mohamed Duaij Khalifa Al Khalifa & HE Hatun Demirer

Karl Heinz Mali & Fouad Al Mutawa

The Diplomatic Protocol Society, in cooperation with Bahrain authorities, hosted the visit of a business delegation from four European countries at The Domain Hotel & Spa. Andreja Seme, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran & Jani Lotric

Huda Al Alawi & Marjan Rozman

Gorazd Kocbek

Dr Ali Hassan Follad

Movia in Bahrain

The Domain Hotel & Spa in cooperation with the Diplomatic Protocol Society hosted a Movia event with owner, Ales Kristancic.

Ales Kristancic

Muna Dohry, Frank Normann Eikeland & George Khallouf

Lovely Valencia, Jani Lotric, HE Hatun Demirer & HE Alfonso A Ver

Bahrain Arts Society’s Bahrain Photo Club members and Financial Centre Development Company Bahrain Photographic Festival The held a pre-event media launch of the Bahrain Photographic Festival.

Mehdi, Jalil Al Hayki, Angus, Ali Al Mahmeed & Herz Al Banki

Terence M Davis, Nick Langhan & Marina Zain

German Embassy, in collaboration with the Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage, Supreme Council for Environment, and A Plastic Ocean The CleanUp Bahrain held a screening of the documentary, A Plastic Ocean.

Lin & Khogaraj

Layla, Bader & Ali

16 April 2017

Hanadi, Tariq Faqeeh, Kai & Yousif

HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre & Reema

Ahmed Rasheed & Jalil Al Ansari

Abdul Monem & Tariq

Sana & Clare

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bystander

William Roebuck, US Ambassador, hosted a reception in honour of Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern US Embassy Reception HE Affairs, Ambassador Stuart Jones, and the American Chamber of Commerce Middle East North Africa (MENA) Regional Forum.

Shaikh Hisham, Farooq Almoayyed, HE William Roebuck & Jean

Qays Zu’bi & Karina

Jazz Concert

Christiaan, Faisal & Daniel

HE Dhafer Alumran & HE Stuart Jones

Yasser & Craig

Raja & Abdulla

Jumana & Ihab

As part of the 12th Spring of Culture Festival, the US Embassy in collaboration with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) hosted a concert featuring Chelsey Green and the Green Project at the Cultural Hall.

Chelsey Green performing

Sheela & Santosh

Shaikha Latifa, Shaikha Hala & Samah

Musical Reception

Waleed & Shaima

Tom, Yousif, HE WIlliam Roebuck & Huda

Denise & Dee

Rhizlane & Fawzi

HE William Roebuck , US Ambassador, hosted a musical reception at his residence featuring the American jazz ensemble, Chelsey Green and the Green Project.

Kevin, Nate, Chelsey, HE William Roebuck & Brian

HE Dhafer Alumran, Perwin, HE William Roebuck, Tanya & HE Alfred Simms-Protz

Art Exhibition

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art hosted two architect artists, Maura Franciosa from Italy and Saif Al Sayed from the UAE, at its premises.

18 April 2017

Maura, Doriana, Laura & HE Domenico Bellato

Simonita & Juan

Gabriella & Halvor

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

French School organised a career Career Forum The forum at the Mรถvenpick Hotel.

Architectural Talk

As part of the Spring of Culture 2017, the Italian Embassy organised a talk featuring Italian architect, Francesco Librizzi, at the Bahrain National Museum.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Francesco Librizzi, Laura, HE Domenico Bellato & Noora

Frederique & Vincent

Antoine & Leila

Zaid & Natalia

Laura & Simonetta

held its regular business dinner with Ausamah Al Absi, CEO of Labour Market and Regulatory Authority (LMRA), as guest speaker SKAL Dinner SKAL at The Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

Mohamed Buzizi & Ausamah Al Absi

CD Singh & Gabriel

Jano & Ausamah Al Absi

Majeed, Yazan, Yousif & Ebrahim

20 April 2017

Ron, Khamis Muqla, Mohamed Buzizi & Yousif

Hussain & Ali

Mukul & Hameed

Rahim & Abdulla

Phiroz, Rohan, Stephen & Monika

Mohan & Garfield

Ashraf & Jano

Gilles, Marc & Ebrahim

Khalid & Charbel

Marc & David

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sameh, Maram & Alia

Eleni & Dr Nikolas

Tonia Sotiropoulou, Dr Christiana & Christina

Reem & Muhanned

Symmetria Opening

Symmetria Bahrain, world-class anti-ageing institute, held a grand opening ceremony at its premises in Tubli.

Dr Siyam and Dr Nikolas cutting the ribbon with Shaikh Ahmed Al Khalifa at Symmetria’s opening

Dr Olga & Dr Siyam

Fouz, Dr Nikolas & Tonia

Jameel & Yousif

Dr Siyam & Shaikh Khalifa

Manal

Mohammed Siyam

Mrs Siyam welcoming Mr Sami Ghosheh

Shaikh Khalifa, Shaikh Ahmed & Dr Siyam

Sarah & Hadeel

22 April 2017

Fouz Fahed

Mohammad, Dr Siyam & Shaikh Khalifa

Dr Khalid Mirza & Sami Ghosheh

Dr Alina & Mohammed

Lama & Rouba

Symmetria Greece team

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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APRIL 2017. HAPPENINGS DOCUMENTING ‘FOOD IS CULTURE’

When? April 2 Event? Book Launch & Panel Discussion Venue? Bahrain National Museum second edition, the unique collaboration, which took place between 11 artists from the culinary and visual arts fields, now culminates with the launch of a publication documenting the process. The chefs and artists will be present in a panel discussion to share their collective experiences and impressions. The event starts Food is Culture is an experimental at 7pm and is free to attend. project that aims to bridge the mediums of art and food. In its Call 17 298-777.

HIGHLINE OF NEW YORK

When? April 3 Event? Lecture Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Center for Culture & Research During his lecture, Joshua David will address his experience in a non-profit group to maintain the legacy of the New York railway line, which runs through residential neighbourhoods. The event starts at 8pm and is free to attend.

Call 17 322-549.

PACO RENTERIA When? April 6 Event? Concert Venue? Cultural Hall Mexican guitarist Paco Renteria, who has performed with Carlos Santana and Luciano Pavarotti, will take the stage in Bahrain for a concert that promises high levels of excitement, energy and emotion. The show starts at 8pm and is free to attend.

Visit http://culture.gov.bh/en/theevents/current_events/

CLASSICAL MOVIE NIGHT

When? April 6 Event? Film Screening Venue? Qal’at Al Bahrain Site Museum Our Beautiful Days is an Egyptian romance/musical that tells the story of Huda, a poor woman who leaves an orphanage to live with three young men. The film shows the love and fraternity that is created in her friends through her sickness. It starts at 7pm and is free to attend.

Call 17 567-172.

24 April 2017

BEACH BIRTHDAY BASH When? April 7 Event? Beach Party Venue? Palm Beach, Amwaj Join in the celebrations as Beach Culture – Bahrain’s only beach specialised company and natural water sports centre – turns two.

Redbull Delmuna will be dropping the latest tunes to pump up the festivities. There will be a BBQ station rolling throughout the day, so feel free to bring your own grills

and drinks. A kid- friendly zone with beach toys and games will also feature. It starts at 10am.

Visit http://www.beachculture. me/

TOM JONES IN BAHRAIN

When? April 7 Event? Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay Welsh singer Tom Jones will perform as part of the Spring of Culture Festival. His irresistible show traverses musical eras and genres, cuts across class divides and appeals to all ages. He is best known for hits It’s Not Unusual, Green Green Grass of Home and Delilah. He’s sold millions upon millions of records, performed in Las Vegas numerous times, and, in 2006, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music.

The show starts at 8pm and is suitable for ages eight and above.

Visit www.springofculture.org

BAHRAIN FOR ALL FESTIVAL When? April 7 Event? Festival Venue? Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Park This event aims to showcase unity and harmony amongst the Kingdom’s various communities. It takes place from 4pm to 10pm and features an entertainment line-up that includes performances

by Hamad ‘Mystro’ Al Fardan and DJ Westlife with local comedian Ali ‘Fingerz’ Al Esbai serving as host.

Another highlight will see artists from various communities paint sections of a sketch drawn by Bahrain-based Indian artist VR Sathyadev that tells a story about Bahrain.

There will be a kids’ area, which is hosted by GulfWeekly’s Mai Al Khatib-Camille.

Beloved TV presenter Baba Yaseen and popular patriotic figure, Um Hassan, will treat children to a visit.

Representatives from Hidd Rehabilitation Centre, Think Pink, WWIC, Bahrain Association for Parents and Friends of the Disabled, Saudi Bahraini Institute of the Blind and the Bahraini Association for Downs Syndrome will sell handmade items.

There will also be over 250 market stalls for visitors to enjoy as well as raffle draws with prizes offered. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.

More than 40 embassies, clubs, societies and organisations, including 12 directorates of the Ministry of Interior (MOI), will take part.

Call 36 335-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Christine, Ivy & Diana

Kisha & Maria

Franzelle, JR & Jeffrey

Aina & Noor

Bahrain Food Festival

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority held the second edition of the Bahrain Food Festival at the Bahrain Bay Promenade.

Vito, Stephanie, Sutar & Marlo

Medhai, Tamer, Neo & May

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Sarah, Gagan-Suri

Archie & Mike

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April 2017 25

happenings

INAUGURAL FESTIVAL Me and Classic Cameras – Haider Rafiey.

Saturday, April 15 Open Debate/Discussion – Jalil Hayki.

Sports Photography – Nikon School.

The Legacy – Khalifa Shaheen.

Sunday, April 16 Classic Camera Show – Haider Rafiey.

How To Get A Great Shot – Sawsan Taher.

Meet the Bahrain Photo Club – All Members.

When? April 10-20 Event? Bahrain Photographic Festival Venue? Second Floor Atrium Harbour Gate, Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH) The inaugural Bahrain Photographic Festival is the brainchild of Bahrain Photo Club (BPC) which is part of Bahrain Arts Society and has a long and distinguished history, having been formed in 1985 with the encouragement of Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and Mr Husain Ali. From the start, the club has been an active member of the International Federation of Photographic Arts (FIAP), which was founded in 1947 and unites more than one million photographers in 85 locations worldwide. It also runs regular courses and workshops and hosts overseas professionals.

At FIAP’s 32nd Biennale held in Turkey in 2014, Bahraini club member Mohammed Bu Hasan won first prize. At the following biennale, in Korea, the club was still within the top 10 and the entries from these two events will form the basis of an exhibition at the first Bahrain Photographic Festival.

Taking place over 10 days, and due to be officially opened by Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, the event will include a

26 April 2017

range of activities such as talks, demonstrations and workshops.

Monday, April 10 Official opening.

Tuesday, April 11 Basic Training Level 1 – Nikon School.

Photo retouching techniques – Nader Al Bazzaz.

BPC – A Success Story – Mahdi Al Jallawi.

Wednesday, April 12 Basic Training Level 2 – Nikon School.

Heritage Photography 1 – Mohamad Al Hajer.

101 Things To Do – Ali Meshaimaa.

Thursday, April 13 Photography or Art? – Marina Zain.

The Jet Ski Show, photographing from high up, 40th floor BFH – Herz Al Banki.

A SHE Photographer – Sawsan Taher.

Friday, April 14 Cityscape Photography – Nikon School.

Monday, April 17 Camera Accessories – Lubna al Shaibani.

Let There Be Light, studio lighting – Jalil Al Hayki.

Choosing My Camera – Khalil Hammad.

Tuesday, April 18 Basic Training Level 1 – Nikon.

Our Vision – Bahrain Financial Harbour.

Photo Composition – Nader Al Bazzaz.

Wednesday, April 19 Basic Training Level 2 – Nikon School.

Heritage Photography 2 – Mohamad Al Hajer.

On Safari – Khalid Ibraheem.

Thursday, April 20 Portrait Photography – Herz Al Banki.

Our Story in Pictures – Dilmunian Couple.

Who Is A Photographer? – Mahdi Al Jallawi.

Other than Friday, April 14, when there are only two afternoon sessions, each day consists of three sections, training from noon to 1pm, workshops from 4pm to 5pm and lectures from 7pm to 8pm. The festival closes with a ceremony to award prizes for photographic competitions plus a charity auction of the pictures on display to raise funds for the Bahrain Association for Parents and Friends of Disabled Children.

Contact 17 102-615/17 102-614.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

EHAB BSEISO When? April 10 Event? Poetry Venue? House Of Poetry Ehab Bseiso is a Palestinian academic and poet who specialises in architecture as well as media. He held several executive and academic posts before taking on the position of Minister of Culture in the Palestinian Unity Government. The event starts at 8pm and is free to attend.

Visit www.springofculture.org

ALL ABOUT BAHRAIN When? April 11 Event? Lecture Venue? Qal’at Al Bahrain Site Museum Abdullah Al-Madani holds a PhD in political science from Exeter University (UK) and a Master’s in international relations and strategies from Boston University (US). In his talk, he It starts at 7pm, is suitable will highlight the for ages 18 and above and Kingdom’s leadership and is free to attend. numerous precedents in various fields. This lecture Visit www. will be conducted in Arabic. springofculture.org

ARABIAN MEP 2017 When? April 11-13 Event? Exhibition And Conference Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre interactive workshops, there will also be discussion panels, presentations by vendors, keynote speakers and other activities concerning the Guests can attend most recent developments workshops and seminars in the MEP and heating, held by groups on various ventilation and air pressing issues of today’s conditioning fields. mechanical, engineering, and plumbing (MEP) Visit http://www. markets. Along with arabianmep.com 28 April 2017

ISLAMIC ARCHAEOLOGY IN A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

When? April 11-14 Event? Conference Venue? Bahrain National Museum The conference celebrates the opening of the new Al-Khamis Mosque Visitors’ Centre and associated exhibition. It also, for the first time, considers Islamic archaeology from a global perspective, region by region. This is achieved through lectures from world experts on their chosen regions.

Call 17 298-777.

SPARTAN ARABIA RACE When? April 14 Event? Race Venue? Bahrain International Endurance Village Get ready to sweat as you take on an event you’ll never forget. This event features three races that will push competitors to the limit.

Spartan Super is a middle distance course. With a longer distance than the Sprint and more obstacles, the Super will test your endurance, perseverance and grit. The 13+km race packs more than 25 obstacles through tougher and more rugged terrain.

Spartan Sprint is a short distance race. It is perfect for athletes of all levels; from Spartan first timers to seasoned racers. The 5+km race may be the shortest distance but it packs more than 20 obstacles.

Spartan Kids is suitable for children aged four to 15 years. Youngsters get to jump, run, get muddy, help each other and have a good time while conquering obstacles.

As a spectator, you will have access to the rocking Festival Area with music, hands-on obstacle challenges and local food/beverage vendors. Sponsor giveaways are available throughout the day.

It runs from 7am to 6pm and costs BD2 for adult spectators and is free for children under 12 years.

Visit http://www.spartanarabia.com/en/race/ detail/2683/overview

When? April 1 Event? Training Session Where? Oasis Training Center This one day workshop is designed to help women enhance their leadership abilities. It runs from 9.30am and costs BD40.

E Call 17 330-823.

When? April 2 Event? Book Launch & Panel Discusion Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777.

When? April 3 Event? Lecture Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Center for Culture & Research E Call 17 322-549.

When? April 4-8 Event? Sesame Street Live Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre The show ‘Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend’ is based on the popular TV show that brings together a number of characters. There will be three daily shows at 9am, 5pm and 6.30pm.

Tickets will be sold on Virgin Megastore’s website. Visit www.bahrainexhibitions.com/ When? April 6 Event? Concert Venue? Cultural Hall E Visit http://culture.gov. bh/en/theevents/current_ events/ When? April 6 Event? Conference Where? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa E Visit http://mc-academy.org When? April 6 Event? Film Screening Venue? Qal’at Al Bahrain Site Museum E Call 17 567-172.

When? April 7 Event? Festival Where? Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Park E Call 36 335-000.

When? April 7 Event? Tom Jones Concert Where? Bahrain Bay E Visit www. springofculture.org www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

ART ON DISPLAY When? April 15-16 Event? Art Expo Venue? The Capital Club The first in a series of Art Divano exhibitions kicks off with a solo expo by German artist Eva Graf. Her inspiration for her petite mini sculptures, medium-sized objects and large wall montages comes from nature. She will be available for discussions from 10am to 1pm on the following day.

Email marion@artdivano.com

SLIDEFEST, SHOW AND TELL When? April 15 Event? Photography Showcase Venue? Heraf Al Diyar Here’s a chance to talk about past, or current photography projects that you are working on – 10 slides, 30 seconds for each. Come along to see new photography, or to gain experience at talking about your work.

This event, which starts a 5pm, will be in Arabic and is free. Register your interest at binmatarhouse@ gmail.com

A UNIQUE EVENT When? April 19 Event? Cultural/music Venue? Dar Al-Riffa Al Oda The Dar Al-Riffa Al Oda project comprises the conservation and rehabilitation of the existing dar in old East Riffa as well as an extension on a neighbouring plot, and accommodates a larger performance hall and residency spaces. The new Dar Al Riffa enhances the intangible heritage of Riffa, and the folk singing that is specific to this area of Bahrain. It opens at 8pm and is free.

30 April 2017

EASTER EGG HUNT When? April 16 Event? Egg Hunt Venue? Grand Wadi Tent, Al Areen Palace & Spa There will be a basketload of great activities at the Grand Wadi Tent for BD13++. Whether you plan to hunt for eggs, collect Easter goodies or enjoy a sumptuous lunch buffet with live entertainment, get cracking with your Easter plans now.

Call 17 845-000.

THE PEARLING PATH EXHIBITION When? April 18-August 4 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum Four years after the inscription of the ‘Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy’ site on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the exhibition will showcase the built vision for the site through architectural models, images, studies and mock-ups. It is open from 8am to 8pm.

Call 17 298-777.

When? April 8 Event? Race Where? Bahrain Financial Harbour The Harbour Row 5km Colour Run takes place from 9am. It costs BD5 for adults and BD3 for children. All proceeds go to charity.

E Call 17 102-929.

When? April 9-15 Event? Various Where? Moda Mall This is a virtual reality experience that shows you what it’s like to get behind the wheel of your favourite F1 car.

E Call 13 323-332.

When? April 10 Event? Poetry Venue? House Of Poetry E Visit www.springofculture.org When? April 10 Event? Bahrain Writers› Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? April 11 Event? Lecture Venue? Qal’at Al Bahrain Site Museum E Visit www.springofculture. org When? April 11-13 Event? Exhibition And Conference Where? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Visit http://www.arabianmep. com When? April 11-14 Event? Conference Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777.

When? April 12 Event? Film Screening Where? Capital Club Environmental activists will show the documentary A Plastic Ocean followed by a talk about local pollution issues.

E Call 17 100-100.

When? April 12 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant Enjoy an evening discussing and reciting poetry with fellow enthusiasts at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Rashid & Rashid Al Zayani

Paul & Fatima

Car Launch

Euro Motors unveiled the new Maserati Quattroporte at Gallery 21.

Reema & Dalia Areej, Maisa, Manal & Yasmin

Rashid, Shahla & Anood Al Zayani

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fatima & Sara

George, Rifat, Ingo & Panos

April 2017 31

happenings

SNAP HAPPY When? April 22 Event? Artist Talk Venue? Heraf Al Diyar Artists who work with analogue photography will talk about their work and how using a traditional darkroom fits in with their process. This event will be conducted in English and is free of charge.

Register your interest at binmatarhouse@gmail.com

ENCROACHMENT ON THE REGION When? April 24 Event? Lecture Venue? Abdullah Al-Zayed for Bahraini Press Heritage Building A lecture by Egyptian-American political science professor Mamoun Fandy. Currently the director of the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies’ Middle East and Gulf Security programme.

He has authored several books including Media and Politics in the Arab World and Victims of Modernity: America and the Arabs after September 11.

Visit www.springofculture.org

INTERIORS EXPO RETURNS When? April 25-27 Event? Interiors Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre This leading exhibition showcases the latest products that will ensure your home or office space is on trend.

GulfInteriors 2017 is a dedicated interiors event that provides a unique opportunity for manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, designers, architects and contractors to showcase a range of luxurious and innovative products for the home or commercial space.

The event is held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

Exhibitors and visitors can enjoy a range of networking opportunities, develop their creativity and experience an exciting atmosphere.

“This year’s line-up of high-profile exhibitors involved in the interior design business includes architects, interior designers, importers and dealers who have chosen our platform to network and market their products,” says Jubran Abdulrahman,

32 April 2017

Developments have signed up as Strategic Sponsors for this year’s show. Gold Sponsors are Bahrain Marina Development Company and First Bahrain Real Estate and Silver Sponsors are Khaleeji Commercial Bank and Fontana Real Estate.

“Gulf Property Show 2017 is Bahrain’s premium real estate event,” says Jubran Abdulrahman, managing director of HCE. “This year we have surpassed expectations and continued our year-on-year growth, making this the largest show to date.

“To assist visitors and guide them through the maze of developers, we have partnered with EXCPY, an app that connects digital content to physical spaces and indexes brands, locations and events at a

When? April 14 Event? Race Where? Bahrain International Endurance Village E Visit http://www. spartanarabia.com/en/ race/detail/2683/overview When? April 15 Event? Art Expo Where? The Capital Club E Email marion@ artdivano.com When? April 15 Event? Photography Where? Heraf Al Diyar E Email binmatarhouse@ gmail.com

managing director of organisers Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (HCE).

To find out more about the event, visit http://gulfinteriorsexhibition. com/

PROPERTY EXPO IS BIGGER THAN EVER When? April 25-27 Event? Property Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Gulf Property Show 2017, the northern Gulf’s window to international real estate and property developments, has beaten last year’s record size.

The event is held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

The expo has received a record number of sponsors, who are champions of the Gulf’s property development industry, the event organiser Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (HCE) say.

Diyar Al Muharraq and Manara

When? April 12-18 Event? Hurafana Festival Venue? Bab Al Bahrain The annual Hurafana Festival aims to promote the Kingdom’s rich and diverse traditional handicrafts industry. The event is free of charge and will also include live performances by traditional bands.

citywide level.”

The real estate options available to investors include leading projects in the UAE, Turkey, the UK, the US and Bosnia.

Visitors to the show can register their interest in properties from the companies listed on the ‘property search’ feature on www. gulfpropertyshow.net

When? April 16 Event? Egg Hunt Where? Grand Wadi Tent, Al Areen Palace & Spa E Call 17 845-000.

When? April 17 Event? Bahrain Writers› Circle Creative Workshop Venue? Umami Restaurant Get together for a literary evening and meet likeminded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? April 18 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontain Centre of Contemporary Art There will be a screening of Snow White at 7pm. It costs BD10.

E Call 17 230-123.

When? April 18-August 4 Event? Pearling Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777.

When? April 19 Event? Culture/music Where? Dar Al-Riffa Al Oda E Visit www. springofculture.org www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

LATEST PRODUCTS ON SHOW When? April 25-27 Event? Construction Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre This specialist event for the Northern Gulf’s construction industry showcases the latest products, cutting-edge technologies and services from reputable local, regional and international companies. It brings together the leading suppliers faceto-face with clients and buyers. The event is being organised by Al Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions.

Call 17 299-123, 17 293-131 or email cheryl@hilalce.com

COLOURS OF LIFE When? April 29 Event? Poetry Festival Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant

The Colours of Life Poetry Festival brings together poets from across the world. This year’s diverse mix of poets come from Bahrain, Egypt, Canada, Ireland, Indonesia, India, Macedonia and the UK, their poems reflect the myriad shades and emotions of life. It is perhaps the only bi-lingual poetry festival on the island and features poetry in both Arabic and English. It is free to attend and starts at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795.

TRIB FEST RETURNS When? April 28 Event? Concert Venue? The Bahrain Rugby Football Club Trib Fest Bahrain is back for its spring installment of music family fun. The festival is made up of different tribute acts from the United Kingdom. The line up includes: Ed Sheeran, Prince, George Michael, Stevie Wonder, Ellie Goulding, Lady Gaga, James Brown, Tom Jones, The Blues Brothers, Elton John, Bob Marley and Madonna to name a few. The event starts at 10am and runs until 10pm.

Visit www.tribfestbh.com

GULF JAZZ When? April 29 Event? Concert Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art American jazz/soul singer and pianist, Karen Edwards, will perform in Bahrain.

Her show is part of the Gulf Jazz Festival, which celebrates International Jazz Day. Karen is known from her collaborations with Stevie Wonder, Prince and Tony Bennett. She has been nominated for several Grammy Awards and her recital will include jazz, soul and popular music. Doors open at 6.30pm and the show starts at 8pm. Tickets are priced at BD20+ for concert only and BD 30+ for concert and dinner. There will be a 10 per cent discount on tickets purchased before April 15.

Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre. net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net

YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN When? May 4-6 Event? Play Venue? Inspire Performing Arts Centre, Rivers Hall, Saar.

Inspire Bahrain and MASK Theatre Company (Music And Stage for Kids) are staging the popular Broadway and West End musical You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. The playful performance is based on Charles M. Schulz’s long-running comic strip, Peanuts. “Our upcoming production is bound to appeal to audiences of all ages with its vibrant characters, insightful wit and nostalgic charm,” says director Patrick Wall.

Visit www.inspirebahrain.com/ 34 April 2017

When? April 22 Event? Artist Talk Venue? Heraf Al Diyar E Email binmatarhouse@ gmail.com When? Ongoing-April 22 Event? Spring Festival Where? Dragon City The Spring Festival takes place every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Vistors will be treated to a unique open-air shopping and dining experience loaded with excitement, starting at 4pm.

The event will feature food and retail stalls as well as clothes, accessories and gadgets.

E Visit www. dragoncitybahrain.com When? April 24 Event? Lecture Venue? Abdullah Al-Zayed for Bahraini Press Heritage Building E Visit www.springofculture. org When? April 25-27 Event? Interiors Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition Centre E Visit http:// gulfinteriorsexhibition.com/ When? April 25-27 Event? Property Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition Centre E Visit www. gulfpropertyshow.net When? April 25-27 Event? Construction Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition Centre E Call 17 299-123.

When? May 3,4,6,7 Event? Play Venue? Cultural Hall The Michael Rosen’s awardwinning book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in this funfilled adaptation. Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of adventure. Tickets, priced at BD15 are available in Manazel and Alosra supermarkets. There are special rates for families and school offers are available.

E Call 39 616-858 or email entertainmentplusint@gmail. com When? May 4-6 Event? Play Where? Inspire Performing Arts Centre, Rivers Hall, Saar.

E Email inspirebahrain@ gmail.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdark happenings

BOLLYWOOD BASH When? April 6 Event? Bollylicious Night Juggy D Live Venue? Elements, InterContinetal Regency Hotel The fifth and final instalment of Bahrain’s own Desi night, Bollylicious, features Punjabi star Juggy D who’s had numerous crossover singles with musicians and singers.

Bollylicious resident spinner DJ DSZD will be supporting with the best of bhangra and Bollywood tunes. Tickets are from BD5, pre-sale, for ladies and from BD15, pre-sale for men.

Call 33 884-222.

BEST LOCAL TALENT When? April 7 Event? BUMM Open House Session Venue? La Vinoteca Barcelona – Café Amsterdam Join the Bahrain Underground Music Movement (BUMM) open house session to witness five talented DJproducers doing their stuff. The concept, which aims to promote the island’s underground scene, was created

by DJs Katrin Love and Mysterioo Arif, joining them in the line-up will be the funky BUMM resident DJ Gareth George (South Africa), DJ Nacim (Algeria), Axel Zak (Baghdad) and Ali Bakhtiar.

Call 37 777-845.

NON-STOP MUSIC When? April 28 Event? Beat Beach Activate Festival Venue? Coral Bay Get ready for 13 hours of non-stop music over two dance floors with the biggest line-up of DJs in Bahrain plus a fire show, LED show and more. On the bill are DJs VJMP3, Jackson, Riddler, Lil L, Lina Colada, Cossta, Odette, Sasy, Fawazo, Sonic Uprising, Kayan Danzil and Sub Nation and the Contrack Killers with more performers still to be announced.

Call 66 331-366 / 66 302-112 / 17 312-700. www.bahrainthismonth.com

CLASH OF THE ICONS When? April 7 Event? Kyle vs Madonna Tribute Venue? JJ’s Get ready for the ultimate duel between two of the most iconic pop singers in the music industry, Kylie and Madonna, performed by the talented Suzy Hopwood.

Kylie A Like has been one of the leading tribute shows in the UK and Europe since its humble beginnings in 2001. Now in its 14th year, this well establish show continues to be one of the top Kylie Minogue shows in the world which includes all the hits, remixes, ballads and album tracks, including the latest releases. Madonna - The Tribute is a fantastic step back in time to the big hair, rara skirt-wearing days of the ‘80s. Entry is BD4 at the door, free for ladies till 9pm.

Call 33 843-005.

IBIZA STYLE When? April 28 Event? Café Del Mar World Tour Venue? ART Rotana Head to the beach for the official Café Del Mar World Tour with DJs and live performers from the iconic Ibiza bar, featuring DJs Deep Josh, Felix Da Funk and Luis Garcia and sax player Franco Botto. Prepare for a taste of the White Isle’s famous party atmosphere with a night to remember on the waterside. Tickets from BD20, including two drinks vouchers.

Call 16 000-111 extension 3112.

When? Tuesdays Event? Wahine Tuesdays Venue? Trader Vic’s Ladies enjoy free drinks, including the legendary Tiki Puka Puka, from 6pm-9pm.

E Call 17 586-555.

When? Tuesdays Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Meisei Girls get four four glasses or grape or selected cocktails.

E Call 33 332-722.

When? Saturdays Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Baci Ladies get two free drinks and there’s music from DJ Sami.

E Call 17 533-666.

When? Saturdays Event? Liv Ladies’ Night Venue? Live Club Lounge Ladies enjoy free drinks from 8pm-1am and aircrew and military get a 15 per cent discount.

E Call 66 600-025/37 777-845.

When? April 4 Event? Jam Night Venue? Ibrida Join Lockdown band on stage, play some tunes and get a free drink for performers.

E Call 17 111-999.

When? April 6 Event? Bollylicious Night Juggy D Live Venue? Elements, Regency InterContinental Hotel E Call 33 884-222.

When? April 7 Event? Kyle vs Madonna Tribute Venue? JJ’s E Call 33 843-005.

When? April 7 Event? BUMM Open House Session Venue? La Vinoteca Barcelona – Café Amsterdam E Call 37 777-845.

When? April 28 Event? Beat Beach Activate Festival Venue? Coral Bay E Call xx xxx-xxx.

When? April 28 Event? Café Del Mar World Tour Venue? ART Rotana E Call 16 000-111.

April 2017 35

feature

Moda Mall

Speed Thrills Check out the best on and offtrack action the racing season has to offer this year with BTM’s in-depth F1 entertainment guide.

36 April 2017

Bahrain was the first country in the Middle East to host the Formula One Grand Prix, a move that put the Kingdom on the map. That fateful day was April 4, 2004, and the island has had a constant love affair with motorsports since then. It is now the highlight of each year.

The track at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) was designed by Hermann Tilke, featuring long straights followed by tight corners, yet remaining as one of the safest tracks in the world and praised for thid as well as its marshalling and medical facilities.

Approximately 12,000 tonnes of stone were used to build the entire course.

The first ever Bahrain Grand Prix was won by F1 legend Michael Schumacher. Fernando Alonso has won the race three times over the course of 13 years.

Last year, Nico Rosberg, Kimi Raikkonen and Lewis Hamilton took the first, second and third place trophies. The winners spray a sparkling rosewater drink, known as Waard, to celebrate their victory.

This year marks one of the biggest regulation shake-ups in the history of the sport, intended to make the cars faster and thus potentially boost overtaking. It’s also the first year without Bernie Ecclostone at the helm.

The BIC offers fabulous race-side entertainment such as bungee jumping, zip lining, snow parks and car simulators. Acrobats, cultural dance troupes, illusionists and many other performers are dotted across the venue to entertain guests.

With all the glamour associated with the F1, celebrities are often spotted at the paddock areas.

City Centre Bahrain

Top artists are flown in to deliver electrifying concerts and big names in the music industry such as Neyo, Axwell & Ingrosso and Afrojack have all graced the centre stage. This year, Enrique Iglesias will be the headline act, with Steve Aoki and Belgian DJs Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike also performing.

The following pages feature all the activities that take place in conjunction with the F1, such as dining, nightlife and other associated events. Some of them will also be held at various shopping arcades such as City Centre Bahrain and Moda Mall.

City Centre Bahrain will be transforming its Central Galleria into an amphitheatre simulation of the F1 races, hosting a series of motorsport-themed activities. Both adults and children stand a chance to win prizes.

Moda Mall will offer a thrilling virtual reality experience from April 9-15 at the jewellery court from noon to 8pm daily. Experience a dose of intense racing action, on offer to mall visitors for free. Get behind the wheel of your preferred F1 car and rev up your engines and racing skills to experience the thrill of driving at top speeds around tight corners. It is open for the entire family to enjoy. While you’re at it, get to know more about your favourite F1 cars and drivers through a themed exhibition showcasing F1 trivia and imagery over the years. www.bahrainthismonth.com

COUSINS UP FOR THE CHALLENGE an m l a S n i b Isa Al Khalifa WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START RACING? My dad [Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa – chief executive officer at Bahrain International Circuit] has been part of the BIC since its inception in 2004. Any time I visited my dad at work, seeing the cars got me intrigued with motorsport and inspired me to take up racing My uncle, Salman bin Rashid Al Khalifa, previously took part in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East in season 2010-11 and won the series. Watching him race no doubt inspired me, got me curious to explore the world of motorsport, and built on my passion for the sport. I then started go-karting when I was eight and got a real feel for the adrenaline and it all stemmed from there.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT RACING?

feature

The name Al Khalifa is synonymous with motor racing in Bahrain. It comes as little surprise, then, that 18-year-old cousins Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Isa bin Abdullah Al Khalifa have racing in their blood. The young Team Bahrain drivers are gearing up for victory in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East finale, which takes place at the Bahrain International Circuit on the sidelines of the grand prix on April 15-16.

Isa bin Abdul la Al Khalifa HOW DOES YOUR FAMILY FEEL ABOUT YOUR RACING CAREER? My family support me 100 per cent. My little brother is go-karting at the moment, following similar footsteps.

Hopefully, in the future he’ll build on his motorsport career.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG BAHRAINIS WHO WANT TO GET INTO RACING? If you want to do it, do it the right way. Start with go-karting – it holds great value to your racing career in your earliest years. It also goes without saying that the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East is great experience for young drivers looking to get into racing. Also, keep fit!

Do it for real and with a committed heart and mind, enter races and championships and challenge yourself to always get the best out of yourself.

The rush while I’m racing. It clears my mind – I don’t think about anything but the race, I just go on track and push the hardest I can.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE RACING WITH YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU OVERCOME DURING YOUR RACING CAREER?

I do not think my racing career interferes with my personal life – I have time to go out with my friends, focus on school and be with my family.

When I have a race, I make sure everything else is in order and I focus on that. When it’s done, I just go back to my normal life.

This series is a big step towards my dream of being a professional racing driver and it’s my first full championship debut. I joined the series quite nervous and overwhelmed about racing on such a professional level, but, since the start of this season, I learned to be more confident.

Although there is a lot of competition on the track, drivers of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East are very welcoming and share advice and data around what has worked well for them. This has really helped me become more comfortable.

WHAT IS IT LIKE RACING WITH YOUR COUSIN? IS THERE ANY RIVALRY? Ever since we started go-karting there has been a rivalry, but just on the track. The way I think of it is that if he’s pushing hard, then I’ll be pushing harder and we’ll just continue until we get the best out of ourselves – hopefully all good results.

The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East race starts at 4.30pm on the 15th and 3.30pm on the 16th. www.bahrainthismonth.com

April 2017 37

feature

Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix Off-Track Entertainment

When? April 14-16 Event? Various Where? Bahrain International Circuit Enrique Iglesias will be the headline act at the 2017 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix on Saturday April 15.

The son of legendary Spanish singer-songwriter Julio Iglesias, Enrique has sold more than 130 million albums worldwide, released 10 studio albums plus two greatest hits compilations and is a global multiplatinum artist. His most recent track, Duele El Corazon, got him his 14th number one Billboard dance track, beating Michael Jackson for the most number ones in Billboard history.

Electronic dance music performer Steve Aoki also performs on Saturday, while other artists will be taking to the stage on Friday, including DJs Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike, and MATTN. Bahrain International Circuit’s (BIC) Formula 1 Village promises to have something for everybody and the entertainment is divided into four main categories: a dinosaur and Ice Age tent, experiences and shows, roaming entertainers, and a kids’ zone.

DINOSAUR AND ICE AGE TENT The exhibit includes a total of 24 dinosaurs and 10 Ice Age animals, a maze, backdrop scenes, an interactive area and a dino photo booth.

38 April 2017

Amazing Drumming Dinosaurs This dinosaur show combines puppetry, live music and comedy to create a fun interactive experience for the whole family. It is aimed at ages one to eight years, but is suitable for all, and features special guests and positive messages about the environment and getting along.

Time Travel Photo Full Frame is one of the premiere green-screen experience companies in Europe. It will transport you into the world of dinosaurs and Ice Age adventures. The photographers provide studio-quality green-screen photos instantly, giving you a memoir from your visit.

EXPERIENCES AND SHOWS Pedal Punk Cirque Mechanics established itself as a premiere American circus with its inspiring storytelling and innovative mechanical staging.

The group has performed all over the US, Europe, South America, Asia and Australia. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The stories are wrapped in circus acrobatics, mechanical wonders and a bit of clowning.

ROAMING ENTERTAINERS Sign Spinners The specialist duo sign spinners have been performing for six years. Their speciality is being able to create a buzz and catching the attention of passers-by, directing them with their sign to a certain point, entrance or location. They have taken part in numerous competitions both in South Africa and the US.

The Haunted Mansion This is a massive maze filled with zombies, ghosts and other creatures that will give you chills. Welcome to the world of mystical creatures and characters that will send you to the edge and give you a reason to scream. It is suitable for ages 12 and above.

Ballerinas With hypnotising pirouettes, stilt-walking and beautiful costumes, this is an act you’re sure to remember. The group consists of professional dancers and performers who aim to give audiences a spectacular experience at all times.

Triumfo These tall, colourful and friendly roaming giants will charm and entertain people of all ages with their sensational stilt walking. Originally from Russia, the group has performed at international events and festivals all over Europe, the US and Asia.

Flowers Parade The show features colourful costumes and plenty of dancing to the rhythms of samba and Caribbean music.

High Dive High Dive Group does exactly what it says on the tin. Not only do these divers dive from high platforms while twisting, turning and tumbling into the water, they do it two, three and four at a time. The show incorporates flames, hula hoops and high jinks to give the audience a thrill.

Crazy Clowns This group of giant clowns aims to entertain the audience with their dance moves.

Flight Crew Jump Rope This professional jump rope team travels the world performing a high-energy act. The show combines world-class precision jump rope moves with upbeat music, modern dance, highflying acrobatics, tons of energy and a whole lot of fun.

Senmaru and Yuki From the Land of the Rising Sun comes Senmaru and Yuki. The talented duo wear kimonos and perform Japanese traditional juggling and a cultural dance.

Circo di Strada This is an amazing circus act with acrobatics and varied theatrical street performances. The show is a combination of live music with multiple circus elements, such as stilt walking, juggling, unicycling and more.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

World Parade Circus This show-stopping circus parade is fun for the whole family. It features clowns, jugglers, acrobats, special effects and automations.

KIDS’ ZONE – OUTDOOR WORKSHOPS These interactive shows and workshops are always a hit with audiences of all ages.

Dance Dollz Join Dance Dollz for a mini interactive show that will have your tiny tots fully entertained. It is suitable for ages two to six years.

April 2017 39

feature Once Upon A Sing-along!

This show gives youngsters a chance to sing along to their favourite songs with a beautiful princess and a handsome prince. It is suitable for ages two to seven years.

Parachute Play Parachute Play encourages social interaction, working as a team, developing language, rhythm and practising taking turns. Mostly used in institutions for under fives, Parachute Play is ideal in stimulating creativity and fostering a sense of teamwork.

Meanwhile, the Bubble Workshop is an interactive activity that will allow children to create their own bubbles.

Bubble Show In this show, crowds can experience bubble tricks in every form and size. With Dr Bubbles’ splendid talent and bubbly personality, he will surely entertain young and old alike.

Group Drumming – Mumbo Tumbo Drum Beats This funky interactive show combines drumming, singing and dancing. It is great for developing children’s motor skills. Each child is given a drum to play for the duration of the show.

Time Quest This interactive performance tells the story of Liv – a spy from the future – who has travelled back to 2017 to save her city from an alien invasion. While here, she must recruit and train a team of spies to help her stop the aliens in their tracks. The new team must put their heads together to reconstruct the time machine (Imagination Playground), build up the balloon power (Balloon Rocket Car Race) and save the (Playdough) city.

Imagination Playground is an innovative equipment system that encourages learning, social development, movement and fun.

The Balloon Rocket Car Race gives children the opportunity to exercise their racing skills in a unique, fun environment. With a quick lesson preceding the workshop itself, children are introduced to concepts such as air pressure and force, which they then test out for themselves.

The Playdough City workshop provides a sensory learning experience. Facilitators will demonstrate how to make Playdough, then children can customise it, adding an element of creativeness and individuality to science.

Badge Caricaturist Simon and Sheba Cassini of Bitter & Twisted have been caricaturing since the early 1980s.

Their works are intricate and popular among kids and families. They produce mini caricatures on badges, fridge magnets and pocket mirrors.

Magic Show Gary James and Ricky McLeod are award-winning family entertainers from Scotland. Members of the Magic Circle for over 20 years, they have amazed and amused audiences with their fast-paced, action-packed comedy magic act.

Dance Show The Dancing Grannies group is a comedy theatre company. Their wacky dances have captured the attention of audiences around the world, with over 300 million views on social media.

Face Painting Children will clamour to stand in line and experience the skill of some fantastic face painting artists.

Balloon Twister Pop the Balloon Man is a multi-award-winning magician and balloon artist from Scotland. He is now a veteran of the Bahrain Formula 1, having performed for the last four years. His work is just as incredible to adults as it is to children.

40 April 2017

For further information on the 2017 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, go to www.bahraingp. com or call the BIC Hotline on 17450-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdark

F1 NIGHTS Aside from the mega-events at the track, there’s lots of other good fun to be had across the island over the big race weekend.

WELCOME A LEGEND When? April 13 Event? Grand Prix Opening Party with Little Louie Vega Venue? Café Amsterdam and La Vinoteca Barcelona

INTERNATIONAL FAVOURITE When? April 13 Event? F1 Opening Party with Markus Schulz Venue? Coral Bay

When? April 10-16 Event? F1-themed Ale Festival Venue? Harvesters Take advantage of great offers on brews and ales throughout the F1 season.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? April 12 Event? F1 Ladies’ Night Venue? Tapas Bar, Sofitel Zallaq Themed night with unlimited free selected drinks for the ladies from 8pm to midnight.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? April 13 Event? Grand Prix Opening Party with Little Louie Vega Venue? Café Amsterdam and La Vinoteca Barcelona E Call 17 007-404.

Get the big race weekend off to a banging start with tunes from Louie Vega, who’s described as the quintessential music professional. He’s the ‘DJ’s DJ’, a man who has influenced and defined countless other DJ-producers, from today’s brightest stars to those still beat-matching in their bedrooms. The Grammy Award-winner, producer, songwriter, label owner, band leader and tireless champion of house and world music promises a set that ranges from Latin to salsa, Afro-beat to jazz, hip-hop to classics and all forms of house/dance music. Tickets are BD10 in advance and BD15 on the door.

Call 17 007-404 or 17 007-808.

HEAD TO THE DANCE FLOOR When? April 13 Event? Hed Kandi with DJ Eibhlin Venue? Meisei UK-based super-brand Hed Kandi gets the Grand Prix weekend started in style on Meisei’s panoramic rooftop with Irish DJ Ebhlín whose early influences came from sneaking into her mother’s nightclub!

Since then, she’s joined Hed Kandi and has spun in Italy, Poland and Monaco as well as playing Miami Music Festival and ADE in Amsterdam. Entrance is BD15 for men.

Ladies and diners with table reservations get in free.

Call 17 007-770. www.bahrainthismonth.com

F1 weekend wouldn’t be the same without a trip to Coral Bay and this year the much-loved venue brings us talented worldwide DJ and producer Markus Schulz, who has polled four consecutive years in DJ Mag’s world top 10. He also ranked as world number two in the trance addict, FTB and Trance Podium 2010 charts and won Best American DJ at the IDMAs. Sounds like he’ll be putting on a great show.

Limited pre-sale tickets are BD10 at Coral Bay, JJ’s Irish Restaurant and Pub and Camelot Restaurant and Lounge.

The price on the night is BD20.

Call 36 950-077 or 38 885-929.

POOLSIDE FUN

When? April 14 Event? Formula 1 Party with Jez Pereira Venue? Azure Pool & Lounge

The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay brings both local and international talent for its big race weekend bash.

Music comes from DJ Jez Pereira who’s remixed the likes of Steve ‘Silk’ Hurley and the legendary Frankie Knuckles and has played all over the world from Ministry of Sound and Tao Club, Las Vegas to Burning Man. He’s ably supported by local favourite Damian D’Costa and there’ll also be a dance show. Entry is BD50 for outside guests, including two drinks. It’s BD25 for hotel guests and those using other outlets.

Call 17 115-000.

When? April 13 Event? F1 Opening Party with Markus Schulz Venue? Coral Bay E Call 36 950-077 or 38 885-929.

When? April 13 Event? Hed Kandi with DJ Eibhlin Venue? Meisei E Call 17 007-770.

When? April 14 Event? Formula 1 Party with Jez Pereira Venue? Azure Pool & Lounge E Call 17 115-000.

When? April 14 Event? Khaled Hussain Live Venue? Meisei Say a Bahrain “Welcome” to a DJ who became famous on the global scene with his mega hit You & I, with Yassin featuring the vocalist Hala, and the big-room anthem Lose Control on the world-renowned Pacha label. He’s performed across the globe and is in Bahrain for one night only. Entry is BD10 for men.

Ladies and those with table reservations get in free.

E Call 17 007-770.

When? April 14 Event? David Morales Live Venue? Coral Bay The Grammy Award-winning American house music producer who’s remixed the likes of Eric Clapton and Mariah Carey brings his show to the island.

E Call 17 636-363.

April 2017 41

dining

Dining in the Fast Lane

grilled fresh throughout the evening. Whether you are enjoying the chilled ambience, the live performance, the refreshing drinks and dancing or watching previous races, you are guaranteed entertainment all night.

Entrance is priced at BD10 per person inclusive of two beverages. Also, during the race week from April 9-16, you can enjoy happy hours from 6pm to midnight, with half price on selected beverages at Sundeck and the City Lobby Lounge.

Call 13 119-999 or email fb.downtown@rotana.com

With the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix being the highlight of the month, several restaurants have geared up with full-throttle dining offers. Be spoilt for choice as BTM brings you specials to tuck into during the race weekend.

Tropical Race Fever A special F1 weekend Waikiki Hawaiian brunch is being hosted on April 15 at Trader Vic’s from 1pm-4pm.

Enjoy innovative twists on Trader Vic’s classics. The menu is created in-house – from the many unique buffet stations to the chefs’ made-to-order creations including Loco Moco, succulent Ahi Poké and the freshest island greens. Finish with delicious islandinfluenced desserts, such as the Bahia Crumble or Hot Mai Tai pudding. Indulge all your senses as you feast in a relaxing, island-themed atmosphere. Prices start from BD18.5++ with soft drinks or BD24.5++ with selected beverages.

Call 17586-555.

Race to the Pool The Downtown Rotana will be hosting a Bahrain racethemed BBQ pool party on April 13 from 7pm till late at Sundeck Pool Bar on the ninth floor. The amazing atmosphere will surround you with a recreated ambience that will captivate you with the look and feel of a race track. Enjoy delicious mouthwatering meals

42 April 2017

Thrilling Atmosphere Catch live racing action at Kontiki Pool Bar at the The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, where guests can witness all the edge-of-the-seat action.

Three large screens will be installed for F1 fans who want to enjoy the race while dining and having refreshing drinks by the poolside. Another location will be Fiddlers Green Pub, for those who prefer to stay in an air-conditioned environment.

Call 17 531-666.

Dinner with a Celebrity Indulge in a traditional American BBQ party with the celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck at The Lawn, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Savour an array of special grilled meats and seafood, while enjoying the twinkling lights of the Manama skyline and a live DJ in the background. Relish delicacies such as Spicy Tuna Tartare in Sesame Miso Cones, Lemon Wagyu Beef Sliders, Butter Lettuce Salad, House Cured Smoked Salmon Pizza, Ricotta Gnocchi, grilled Maine lobster, Chinois-style lamb chops and several other dishes.

Book your calendar for April 15, from 8pm onwards. It is priced at BD69++ per person including beverages.

Call 17 115-044. www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

HEALING HANDS Channelling his own special energy has led Paul Geadah on a remarkable healing journey. He told Liz O’Reilly he wants everyone to recognise the power of their own spiritual connection.

Paul Geadah

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he 61-year-old Lebanese national has been in Bahrain two years, having come from Dubai to run a manufacturing company; but more and more these days, he finds his time split between his ‘day job’ and tending to those who need his help.

He explains: “I have been doing healing for 10 years. I found I had this gift by coincidence around the year 2000. I was going through a very spiritual period. I love my God and had the urge to help people – that was my real passion. I was in a very, very strong place spiritually and, without any compromise, I would help anyone and everyone, from giving them money to my time. I found I had the ability to feel what someone would need before I approached them.

“During that period a few accidents happened [to people around him] where I would help carry a child that was sick or hurt and I saw there was a certain healing from me that took away the problem. At that time, I was not even aware of the concept of healing energy. But, after a while, I heard about it and took courses in Reiki, quantum touch and theta healing, just because I wanted to know more. But I didn’t feel I belonged there, it didn’t mean anything to me.

44 April 2017

“I’m not against those techniques; at the minimum they make people aware of healing – that they can channel energy and what it can do. I didn’t need it because I already had it within me. But, when you discover that, you want to be with people in a healing environment. I was not satisfied though, I really wanted to know what this healing energy within me was. So, I did a lot of research and met a range of well-known healers.”

One was Dr Ronald Henry, a renowned alternative healer, who said Paul’s healing energy was 100 times stronger than his own!

However, many people also pointed out that the power of energy healing is not understood – often even by those who practise it. And he was on a quest to learn more by contacting international healers in India and the UK. He says: “With time I got to know more and more about it, but again, since we’re talking about energy, we can never know everything.

It’s subjective, it’s not yet something that can be fully measured. I have witnessed some healings that are really awesome but I’m not very much in control of it. Why does it work 100 per cent this time but not the next time? That’s something I’m learning.”

ALSO THIS MONTH: 46 THE ROMANCE OF HOSPITALITY 56 THE BEAUTY DOCTOR

Paul’s first experience of healing internationally came when he was in contact with a fellow healer in Dubai who asked him to treat her mother who had, had surgery and chemotherapy for cancer. The chemo was causing her great suffering, which he was able to alleviate.

He continues: “From that point, I thought I didn’t want to keep it to myself – I wanted to help people. Since then, I have performed more than 1,000 healings of all sorts of things from smoking [he helps banish the craving] to illnesses. I dealt with an MS sufferer who made a full recovery – the body showing no signs of the disease on a scan. I’ve also dealt with muscular problems – for example knee joints and back pain – and high blood pressure and diabetes. Actually, healing benefits every kind of problem; it’s a very strong, pure energy.”

Ever seeking further knowledge, Paul is hoping to work with conventional medicine in a bid to properly assess the effects of energy healing. He says: “I’ve yet to discover the effect on tumours and I’m keen to join hands with a medical body to see what happens after healing sessions.”

He plans to go to Washington to meet with the National Integrative Health Association that’s working to unite classical medical treatment with holistic healing. “My intention is to be able to do it [healing] alone for a few days or a week [when a person is not undergoing conventional treatment] and for them to be able to measure the result,” he says.

“In conclusion, people shouldn’t be left with the impression of only healing by itself but of good energies that are manifested because it’s the power of intention that’s able to make things happen in a beautiful way.

“I want to talk about the power of universal love energy. What I was focusing on in my writings is how to activate that. How to be able to have the power to achieve anything we want through the energy of love. The relation between the soul and the body.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

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interview

A

s a boy Richard’s ambition was to captain a cruise ship and, though that aspiration may have gone by the wayside, these days he is indeed in command – of Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. He explains: “Where my grandparents come from in Norway, it’s a small village called Geiranger at the end of a beautiful fjord. I used to go there every summer and the big white cruise ships would come in. The passengers would come off and the captain with his hat and braid. I thought, as a little boy, ‘that could be a nice job’ until I realised you have to study mechanical engineering!

“Then I realised that a cruise ship is a floating hotel. My first job was as a tour guide for the cruise ship passengers. That’s how I got a taste for the hospitality industry.”

After studying in Switzerland and the UK, Richard was working in London when a former colleague, who was working at Four Seasons Los Angeles, called and asked if he would be interested in joining the group.

“I had always admired the company when I was studying; it was seen as one of the most iconic companies in our industry,” he says. “I thought, ‘California means nice weather’ and it was raining in London. It didn’t take long before I was convinced.”

Over the years, he has worked at many of the group’s properties. There are some that particularly stand out, for different reasons.

“I think the most interesting was probably opening Four Seasons Cairo in 2000. I met my wife Sandra there. She was sent from Dublin, I was sent from LA, and we never looked back.

She is definitely a cornerstone in my life.”

And the property that has a special place in his heart? “The year we got married we were in Maui, Hawaii, and I think Maui will always be a very special place to us. There are many beautiful properties but it’s the personal memories that make them special. That early stage of really getting to know each other makes it very special for us.”

And now he has fallen in love with Bahrain and the island’s own Four Seasons. He explains: “I have to say, this property is…well I am so proud to be here. It is a hotelier’s dream to be honest. You could lift up this property and put it anywhere in the world and it would be second to none. Quite the opposite, it would stand out anywhere.

“Flying in from Dubai [where he was previously based] you can see it from the aeroplane, and then, just looking at it! I’ve learned since that the designer and architect was the same as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai; it’s the same sort of iconic 46 April 2017

Richard Raab

THE ROMANCE OF HOSPITALITY Richard Raab, the new man at the helm of one of the island’s most iconic properties, speaks to George Middleton about the uniqueness of the brand and meeting the love of his life. building without a doubt.”

Of his plans for the hotel, it’s pretty much more of the same – continued excellence.

He says: “The hotel has been open two years and, when I see the list of awards it has already won, that’s hard to beat. But, in a property of this calibre, you have to prove every day that you are the best. You cannot look back and say, ‘Well, we’ve won these awards’; you need to work hard every single day to deliver consistent luxury service and that’s the main focus going forward – to maintain that and then add a few little extra touches here and there to improve the place.”

He believes this constant striving for excellence and improvement is what gives Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts its competitive edge and adds that it’s also important to have the right staff, saying: “We pay a lot of attention to the people we recruit. It’s not always about technical skills; we look for attitude and

personality. At the end of the day you can train someone, but to actually change someone’s attitude is extremely difficult so we look for the right attitude first.”

Richard believes the restaurants are the heart and soul of the hotel, from which it takes much of its atmosphere. And one area where there has been a change is the CUT Bar and Lounge – attached to the renowned Wolfgang Puck restaurant.

He says: “We have installed air conditioning which will allow smoking inside so we can reposition the lounge. Along with some new food items from chef Brian, which he calls American Classic, we will probably add some late night entertainment with a DJ. We want to make it a bar that people see not just as a place you go if you’re going to have dinner at CUT by Wolfgang Puck but a destination in its own right.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

HI RIFFA! YOUR FAVORITE GRUB JUST GOT A LITTLE CLOSER TO YOU The Grub Shack & El Gringo are now open at The Walk

Wafi Tower, P.O. Box 11037, Al Seef, Kingdom of Bahrain T: +973 1700 0355 | F: +973 1789 9098 | info@novagroupwll.com

interview

Ramzi Barakat

EXPANSION IS ON THE CARDS The general manager for this leading dealership talks to BTM about his role and the company’s ambitious plans for 2017.

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amzi Barakat has been at the helm of National Motor Company for just over a year and has already made his mark, thanks to his dedication to improving the customer experience from start to finish.

Perhaps the most noticeable change in recent months is the totally revamped, stateof-the-art showroom in Sitra, which took just 60 days to complete.

“We had teams working 24 hours a day in eight-hour shifts to complete the refurbishment,” Ramzi explains. “The facility was due for a facelift and we pretty much started from scratch on the inside. When a customer walks into our showroom it is imperative for us to create an atmosphere that is conducive to their needs.”

When asked about the price tag, he laughs, keeping tight-lipped, but admits it cost a considerable sum. “It wasn’t cheap but it was worth it. We need the right environment for our customers,” he says.

Ramzi says a big part of NMC’s formula for success revolves around creating a positive working environment. “A happy employee is a productive one, and, that’s contagious,” he 48 April 2017

explains. “When someone walks into our showroom, they notice whether the employees are happy or not and that energy transfers to the customers. It’s a great team atmosphere and we’re very proud of it.”

Another important component is setting up the correct infrastructure. “When I came here there were certain things I wanted to implement in terms of the sales process, delivery systems and inventory control. In this business inventory can make or break you, it really is an art making sure you have just the right amount,” Ramzi says.

The company’s delivery process is a further point of pride for the GM, who reveals the cars arrive draped in a glamourous red tarp. “We want to give customers the very best service from the moment they walk into our showroom to the moment they receive their vehicle, and the delivery process is crucial,” he says. “We want them to talk to people about how well they were treated, we want that positive word of mouth out there about the company.”

As an added bonus, the delivery team even goes over the manual and warranty information with the customer, making them privy to all the

relevant details about their vehicle.

The region is still weathering the storm brought on by low oil prices, but, Ramzi says, National Motors remains steadfast in its commitment to growth.

“When you look at the pulse of the GCC, things are contracting and business is slowing down, but, regardless of the overall economic climate, we’re growing,” he explains. “We’re looking at opening up a new used car facility – hopefully in the next 18 months – and new service outlets. This is just the start, we have a strategic three-year plan that we’re really focused on, and expansion is on the cards.

“We have a visionary CEO and a diversified board of directors who are distinguish leaders of industry in each of their domains. To work for a company like this is a luxury and I feel very privileged.”

Raised in Dallas, Texas, Ramzi is no stranger to different cultures and says part of Bahrain’s charm comes from the melting pot of nationalities that live here. “The people are amazing and Bahrainis are very welcoming, friendly and kind. It’s a good environment with good people to be around.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Just Cavalli Launch Sharif Group launched Just Cavalli at A La Mode in City Centre Bahrain.

Waleed Sharif with staff at the Just Cavalli launch

Sarah

Massimo & Hassan

Elena

Alison, Liz, Farheen, Manar & Waleed

Associate Party Ramada Manama City Centre held its first annual rock n’ roll-themed associate party.

Best dressed - male and female

We will we will rock you!

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Urs Platz

“Best in Show”

1st ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL OFFERS Join us in celebrating our 1st Anniversary and enjoy the special offers from 25th March to 31st April 2017, stay tuned to our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more information on the offers.

Ramada Manama City Centre

ramadamanamacitycentre

Ramada Manama CC

Website: ramadamanama-citycentre.com | Tel. +973 17104000 For reservations, call +973 1710 4040 | reservation@ramadamanama-citycentre.com YOU DO YOUR THING. LEAVE THE REST TO US.® RAMADA MANAMA CITY CENTRE Building 3236, Road 4654, Block 346 Al Seef, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel.: +973 1710 4013 | Fax: +973 1710 4010

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© 2017 Ramada Worldwide Inc. This property is independently owned by Bukhowa Investments Holding Co S.P.C and operated under a management agreement by Wyndham Hotel Group (UK) Limited or one of its Affiliates.

April 2017 49

interview

ON YOUR BIKE CHARLIE HOLDING This motorcycle enthusiast’s hobby project resulted in a stunning transformation that proves one man’s trash is another’s treasure.

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iker Hasan Buhusain has fully restored a 1984 Honda CB750, turning what was once a rusting pile of metal into his dream ride.

The project, which took a year to complete, has been more than a decade in the making.

Hasan had searched fruitlessly for the vintage model and when it looked like he’d have to buy one from overseas, a call from his brother saved the day.

“Just when I was sure I couldn’t find it, my brother called me and said he’d seen one for sale on Instagram,” Hasan says. “I was so excited, I arranged to meet the guy selling it and bought it on the spot for BD450.”

Sadly, his family did not initially share the excitement. “My brother Husain told me not to buy it and said I was crazy. He didn’t think it was worth the money because it was covered in rust and didn’t work but I said to him, don’t worry, I have something special in mind for this.”

Even Hasan’s father, Abdul Rasool – his inspiration for becoming a biker – was sure his son had made a mistake and urged him to sell it for scrap. “I love bikes because of my dad,” Hasan explains. “He used to have a small 125cc dirt bike and I saw him riding it when I was a kid and it made me want one myself.”

Determined to prove everyone wrong, he started work on it immediately, even though he has no formal mechanical training or qualifications.

“I work with my dad in an aluminium and steel 50 April 2017

Hasan Buhusain

fabrication workshop, so I’m not exactly a mechanic,” Hasan admits. “But, when I take something apart I remember how it fits back together so I didn’t have too much trouble figuring it out. I learned a lot from my dad growing up, he was good at fixing cars and I’m a quick leaner.”

Luckily, as soon as his petrolhead friend Chris heard about the project, he offered to lend a hand putting it together. Eventually, Husain was won over by his brother’s passion and decided to help out with the restoration too.

“It brought us closer together,” Hasan says.

“In fact, after I finished the bike, he told me he wanted to get a motorcycle himself and he recently did!”

Hasan says balancing the project with his work and family life was tough, but well worth the effort. “I’m a married father of two and my family soon became very supportive of my dream. When my wife asked me what I wanted for my birthday, I told her tyres for the bike.”

So what’s so special about a 1984 Honda

CB750? Hasan explains: “The bike is great for converting into a café racer – a lightweight, lightly powered motorcycle optimised for speed and handling rather than comfort – and for quick rides over short distances. It can be customised easily to make it totally unique and that’s what I love about it.”

The whole project cost a staggering BD3,000, but Hasan insists it was money well spent and hopes one day his son, Ali will be willing and able to ride it.

The Honda is now an immense point of pride for Hasan and he says he can’t wait to take it to the Bahrain International Circuit to let loose.

“I’m looking forward to showing off my hard work and cruising around Bahrain. Some bikers will be jealous and others will admire what I’ve done. I don’t mind which because both mean I did a good job.”

Clearly bitten by the restoration bug, Hasan is already planning his next project. “I want to get a 1978 Triumph 750,” he says, admitting that classic bikes are fast becoming his specialty. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

PICTURE PERFECT PUJA TIWARI It is said that one powerful image has the strength to make giant strides of change. This is the adage the Bahrain Photo Club stands by. BTM spoke with Jalil Al Hayki, who has been with the establishment since 2014, to learn more about the activities and achievements of the club.

Jalil Al Hayki

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ounded in 1985, the Bahrain Photo Club is flourishing under the umbrella of The Bahrain Arts Society, with the patronage of Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, who does much to support the club. It is a hub for photographers to exchange ideas and technical experiences and provides them with a creative atmosphere.

The club joined the International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP) in 1985 as the first Arabic member, and has participated in many international competitions, exhibitions and conferences.

“One of our most notable achievements is winning the Photography World Cup at the FIAP Black and White Biennial in 2014,” says Jalil.

“Photographer Bu Hassan won a gold medal for his picture titled ‘The Shaikh’, which depicts a man in a very remote location that resembles a cave, engrossed in a book.

“The aim is to enrich the experience and broaden the knowledge of photographers by means of exchanging expertise,” explains Jalil.

“You can bag valuable information on visual feeds and learn the components to creating an eye-catching picture. Photography is a science as much as it is an art.”

52 April 2017

In 2016, the FIAP competition was held in Korea, and the club managed to stay in the top 10, coming in seventh.

Jalil elaborates on some of the activities arranged on offer, saying: “We organise workshops and invite photographers from the GCC – Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman. The recent one showcased the fundamentals of wildlife photography, deemed to be complex and risky.”

The biggest activity yet, the Bahrain Photographic Festival, is currently being held at the Harbour Gate within Harbour Towers, Bahrain Financial Harbour.

“The Photo Club is the main participant, and

there will also be some sponsors. We are aiming to broaden the public’s knowledge of photography. We are targeting entry-level amateurs, and giving them a chance to get a hands-on experience with cameras,” adds Jalil.

The line-up of activities includes educational films, history and evolution of photos from the film to the digital era, and an antique camera show.

“The first ever camera took eight hours to process one picture, and now you can get over 8,000 in the same time frame. Photography has come far and wide, so there is much to learn,” says Jalil.

He believes that photos have the power to move the world.

“The iconic snap of the little Vietnamese girl running was the catalyst to stopping the war. A picture can make a world of difference,” he says.

“Only a few pictures taken nowadays are meaningful, and we develop this aspect in our photographers at the club.”

There are currently 30 members and new member applications are welcome. “All we ask for is a positive influence and contribution from your end,” says Jalil.

Visit www.bahartsociety.org.bh/photoclub.html. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Family Gathering Event

Azadea hosted a family gathering event for its employees at the Royal Golf Club.

Pierre, Zainab, Jamal & Natasha Seated: Ralph, Wissam & Vicky Top: Mahmood, Rebecca, Harry, Farid & Tony

Naimah, Marilyn, Joan & Janet

Car Launch

Qais, Arwa, Aiman & Sameer

Wafa, Aytam & Harun

Audi held a Middle East press launch of the new Audi Q2 at Malja, Amwaj.

Saad, Hamad & Andrea

Adam

Dina

Janice

Fatima & Sara

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Charlie & Kate

April 2017 53

interview

T

he Applied Science University (ASU) was established in 2004. Today the university houses three colleges – Administrative Sciences, Law, and Arts and Science – which offer various programmes including accounting and finance, business administration, management information systems, political science, law, computer science, graphic and interior design.

Professor Aouad has been at the helm as president since November 2014. He has been named one of the top 10 academic leaders shaping executive education in the region by the Middle East Economic Digest, and received an honorary doctorate of technology from Loughborough University, UK, in 2016.

The university is on the brink of a new alliance, a first of its kind in the country.

Professor Aouad says: “A new College of Engineering will be starting this year in collaboration with the UK’s prestigious London South Bank University [LSBU] and will initially offer the British degrees: Bachelor of Civil and Construction Engineering, and Architectural Design Engineering. Next year ASU will offer bachelor’s degrees in electronics and electrical engineering and telecommunications and networks engineering. Finally, 2019 will see the launch of the mechanical and design engineering programme.”

LSBU won the Entrepreneurial University of the Year award in 2016, and the management of ASU is optimistic about much advanced levels of expertise and experience from this partnership that will benefit Bahrain’s students.

Professor Aouad says: “Our goals are in line with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 – to make the country a knowledge hub – where people from around the region see ASU as a top centre for learning. Students are at the heart of what we do here. Besides academic excellence, we instil in them good communication, analytical, research, negotiation and presentation skills. We want them to be global citizens who understand the working of the world.”

Furthermore, come September, ASU is planning to offer Bachelor of Arts degrees in Management and Business Studies and Accounting and Finance from Cardiff Metropolitan University, another of the UK’s finest higher learning centres, subject to the final approval from the Higher Education Council (HEC) of Bahrain.

ASU’s association with these world-renowned universities brings with it tremendous advantages to the Kingdom and its young minds. The HEC attaches great weight to the 54 April 2017

Professor Ghassan F Aouad

GROOMING GLOBAL CITIZENS BEHNAZ SANJANA In a unique first, the Applied Science University has taken the lead to bring educational programmes in the field of engineering from renowned British universities to Bahrain.

Its president, Professor Ghassan F Aouad, tells us more.

STEM subjects: science, technology, engineering and mathematics. ASU’s College of Engineering supports the market’s needs for this area, thereby fulfilling an important element of the council’s educational strategy.

“Students can benefit from a high quality education and will be earning a British degree, while residing here in Bahrain, which is very cost-effective. In fact, they will explore opportunities to do their internship in the UK, interacting and collaborating with top international firms, and will stand a better chance to land impressive jobs here or anywhere in the world,” says Professor Aouad.

“Our partnership with the two universities has further reinforced ties between our nations. I extend my gratitude to the British Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Simon Martin CMG, as well as the visionaries at the HEC of Bahrain, to support our endeavour to offer world-class education on the island. ASU is also very lucky to have an encouraging board of directors,

chaired by the illustrious Mr Sameer Abdullah Nass, and board of trustees headed by Professor Waheeb Al Khaja, who is an eminent academician himself.”

The new courses will largely be taught by LSBU- and Cardiff Metropolitan-approved teaching staff of ASU, though 25 per cent of the curriculum will be taught by lecturers from the two universities, who will be deployed to reside in Bahrain. “We are committed to providing high standards of education to satisfy the quality assurance agencies in Bahrain as well as those of the universities in the UK. New labs are in place to facilitate teaching of the international syllabus,” says the professor.

“The most important thing for us is to adopt an exciting style of programme delivery: to make it more interactive and interesting with case studies and problem solving, besides helping students with extra attention where they need it. I’m sure the students will love the new way of learning.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

r e t Ecealesbration 6 1 l i r p a

BD

13

++

delar Michael Silin lusionist Magician/ republic from czech

Celebrate Easter Sunday with us on April 16 with a basket-load of great activities at the Grand Wadi Tent!

Featuring an Easter egg hunt for the kids, a sumptuous lunch buffet with nicely prepared Easter goodies, live DJ and a special guest, international magician/illusionist from Czech Republic, Michael Sindelar.

Tel: 17845000

w w w. a l are e np a l a c e. c om

interview

THE BEAUTY DOCTOR LIZ O’REILLY Those seeking anti-ageing and beauty treatments on the island are about to get a new option with the arrival of a German-trained specialist.

Dr Raniah

putting fillers in at an early age. It can also be used as a medical treatment, for example, in the elimination of migraine attacks.

Fillers instead give volume; they fill wrinkles and make the skin look younger. They are also used to add volume to the lips and cheeks and to reform and contour the face in the chin area.

M

any people know the Denta Derma Rim Bogari Center, but now the facility will also be offering a range of cosmetic procedures with the arrival of Dr Rim’s sister, Dr Raniah. She told us what we can expect.

Please tell us about your qualifications and experience in the field of dermatology and cosmetology?

I studied dermatology in Berlin, Germany, and I practised there for more than 10 years in topof-the-line hospitals and aesthetic centres, which gave me, of course, a unique range of experience in aesthetic medicine. I was chosen to be a trainer for many courses in Europe, I used to travel around and hold sessions. It was a pleasure teaching doctors about new methods in aesthetic dermatology.

What is your particular speciality?

I specialise in aesthetic dermatology. Beauty, youthful looks, healthy skin and always seeing improving results and happy faces makes me love my work even more.

Will you be dealing mainly with women or both men and women?

I work with both men and women; men are interested in aesthetics. They are concerned 56 April 2017

about their skin. They don’t want to grow older, just like us women. We do also have treatments for acne, which is common in both men and women.

What do you expect to be the most popular treatment and why?

People always want to look younger and have glamorous skin. So Botox, fillers and laser rejuvenation treatments are now very popular and something people often ask for. There is also a new way of doing minimal lifting of the face after a certain age when we see the cheeks starting to sag. Minimally invasive thread lifts are the first choice, which I am an expert in. I train doctors how to use this method. It is very successful and the results are immediate. There is no pain and results are guaranteed. Patients love it and the demand is growing for the new thread lifts, which are dissolvable and have no side effects at all.

Patients can start at an early age and the method can also be used to lift the eyebrows.

What do the treatments entail and what are the benefits?

We must clearly differentiate between Botox and fillers, which are completely different.

Botox is usually used as a preventive measure to avoid any further wrinkles and to avoid

Who is the ideal candidate for the treatments you offer?

Botox can be used at an early stage, as early as 18 if needed as a medical treatment.

We don’t usually advise fillers before people reach their 30s, as the skin should not need it.

But, in some cases, such as adding volume to the lips or chin, this can be done at an earlier age as well.

There are no skin types for Botox or fillers. For rejuvenation treatments, all skin types are suitable as they are simply non-invasive ways to get glowing and rejuvenated skin.

Will you be offering anything that is exclusive to your practice in Bahrain?

I am, as mentioned, an expert in thread lifting, which is very rare to see as a treatment. I will also be training other doctors in this method soon. I like to work in a very natural way to make people look beautiful naturally.

Anything else you would like to add?

I am so excited to work here in Bahrain after 20 years in Germany. I think after I’ve been here for a couple of months, we will see people going back to looking more natural and moving away from fake results. That makes me happy.

It’s not a mistake or a shame to want to appear younger, but you don’t want an exaggerated look or to look completely different and lose your identity. www.bahrainthismonth.com

property&mortgagesreview Manama skyline

A Dear Investment With a plethora of high-rises mushrooming on the island, BTM gives you a brief overview of the property and rental markets in Bahrain.

More than 500 members partaking in a global survey last year said that the reason they invest in the property market because it is more stable and less volatile than investing in stocks. These sentiments carry on in 2017, thanks to reliability, stability and the ability to diversify asset holdings with property ventures.

Bahrain has completed a number of infrastructure projects and many others are under way. As per the statistics cited by the Economic Development Board, the third quarter of last year saw the non-oil and gas sectors spearheading growth at 4.7 per cent, which is definitely good news for the overall health of the economy, considering the recent fall in oil prices the world over.

Organised every year by Al Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions, The Gulf Property Show is the region’s one-stop showcase for real estate products and services, due to be held from April 25–27. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in liaising with local and international developers and consultants.

ON THE MAIN LAND Those looking to buy a new home for end-use or investment purposes have no dearth of choice. Several high-rise apartment properties have sprung up in various parts of the country, all developed by noted local and regional real estate developers.

Areas close to the commercial centres, such www.bahrainthismonth.com

as Seef, Reef Island and Juffair continue to be favourites among newly arrived expatriates.

Amwaj Islands is also favoured for its proximity to the airport, and Adliya for its buzzing restaurant and nightlife scene.

Reborn areas like Tubli, Hidd, Janabiya and Bokhowa are fast filling up with residents, thanks to easy access to infrastructure and amenities.

BRAND NEW COMMUNITIES Many of the new residences are being raised on reclaimed land. Bahrain originally consisted of 33 individual islands, the most prominent being Al Awal (on which the capital, Manama, is located), Muharraq, Sitra and Budaiya. A

recent report by the Oxford Business Group cites that, as per the American Association of Advancement of Science, 80sq/km of land was reclaimed up to 2013, amounting to a 12.5 per cent increase in the country’s total land mass.

Today, new lands have been created north of Muharraq and around Al Awal islands, and a set of fish and crescent-shaped islets has been created in the south at Durrat Al Bahrain.

Gigantic townships have risen in the form of new terrains built close to the original shorelines of the mainland.

Diyar Al Muharraq comprises a cluster of seven man-made isles, and is a 12sq/km area promising lucrative opportunities for local and

Digital Imagery of Marassi Al Bahrain

April 2017 59

property&mortgagesreview foreign investors. Its final blueprint encompasses apartments and villas at picturesque waterfronts, a beach, top retail amenities, private schools, mosques and hotels — all well connected with wide open roads and walkways.

Marassi Al Bahrain is another joint venture between Diyar Al Muharraq and Abu Dhabi’s Eagle Hills. Sprawling 865,000sq/m, the upscale locale will feature a mall, fine dining and entertainment options and luxury hotels. It is also touted to have a harbour for cruise liners.

Dilmunia is just south of Diyar Al Muharraq and is going to be a health and wellness destination, developed by Ithmaar Development Company.

Al Madinah Al Shamaliya, or Northern City, is set to be built close to Budaiya. The planned community will stand on 13 reclaimed islands. It is being developed as a public-private partnership with the Ministry of Housing and includes affordable accommodation for citizens.

Durrat Al Bahrain is being developed around the southern tip of the mainland. ‘Layan’, Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company’s premium project will serve as a weekend holiday retreat.

RENTALS When it comes to renting, the scales have tipped to favour the leaseholders. Lana Furman, managing partner at Green Gate Properties Bahrain, gives a valid insight to this sector of real estate. She says: “The fall in international oil prices has negatively impacted the rental market over the last 12 to 18 months, on both a

An Artist’s Illustration of Bahrain Bay

direct and indirect level. Since the beginning of 2016, we have seen a substantial drop in Saudibased oil and gas contractors taking up residence here; and the size of the housing allowances being handed out by their employers now seem to be less frivolous than before. This has seen the demand for property in the BD2,500 to BD3,000 range quickly become a thing of the past, especially in those areas close to the Saudi Causeway [Hamala, Jasra, Janabiya and Saar]. Owners are finding it hard to accept that rental fees, which were being met without pause two years ago, are now beyond the financial reach of nearly all potential tenants.”

Lana also maintains that, with so many new residential projects springing up, it is inevitable that prices will not escalate too far in a market where other costs of living are on the rise, and that renters will have a wider choice of homes to choose from.

Aerial View of Durrat Al Bahrain

60 April 2017

Commenting on the demand-supply balance of residential buildings, she says: “The demand for newer and cheaper accommodation in the country is huge. Due to the financial situation worsening as a direct result of the fall in oil prices, the government’s subsequent decision to cut Electricity & Water Authority [EWA] subsidies and double the tariffs two years running has, again, influenced the behaviour of the local rental market. A high percentage of tenants are now looking to downsize in order to reduce their spiralling utility costs. So if there was one area of the rental market that was at risk of being affected by the rapid growth in new property [including on the new man-made islands], then it would be older high-end and luxury accommodation.”

COMMERCIAL, RETAIL AND HOSPITALITY As per the Oxford Business Group’s report, the demand for office space has been modest, reflecting the economic difficulties that businesses are facing. There are a small number of new hotels being built. Marassi Al Bahrain will give the country two high-end hotels: The Vida and The Address Marassi Al Bahrain. Other hotels in the pipeline are the Mariott Residence Inn in Seef and the Wyndham Grand in Bahrain Bay. Contrary to commercial and hospitality segments, the retail property sector looks more optimistic, with several new malls and hypermarkets cropping up. The Juffair Mall is a new shopping arcade in its area and the Oasis Mall is currently being built by Al Rashid Group, an offshoot of the parent Landmark Group.

Dragon City is an existing retail giant in Diyar Al Muharraq and Al Muharraqia Souq is set to open in 2018. This year will also see the opening of The Avenues at Bahrain Bay. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Making a Splash

Bollywood star and Brand Ambassador Katrina Kaif attended a fashion show to launch the latest collection from fashion giant Splash. She was greeted by Raza Beig, Splash CEO and director of Landmark Group.

The presenters with Raza and Katrina

Katrina awarding a Bahrain prize winner

Katrina and Raza Beig with the models

George, Katrina & Anne

Katrina with the Splash team

Models showing the new season’s collection

Raza & Katrina

Kaizad & Katrina

62 April 2017

Models on the runway

www.bahrainthismonth.com

sportscarfeature

The Need for Speed BTM rounds up the latest deals and offerings in the sports vehicle sector in the Kingdom.

There’s no denying the appeal of sports cars.

They’re sleek, attractive and powerful, which makes them an ideal choice for petrolheads.

Fortunately, Bahrain has no shortage of dealers who offer a wide selection of these mean machines with attractive packages and options.

Euro Motors: Ferrari, Maserati, Jaguar Land Rover, MINI and BMW and Rolls Royce This dealership has a plethora of models spanning a number of luxury brands. The interior of the showroom comprises a reception area, coffee shop, service reception, accessories displays, individual area, new car delivery areas, as well as a body shop and spare-parts reception – all in accordance with a franchise-approved corporate identity.

Some of the company’s sportiest models include BMW M series, MINI John Cooper Works, Rolls-Royce Black Badge, Maserati Gran Turismo, Ferrari 488 GTB and 488 Spider, Range Rover Sport, and the Jaguar F Type.

This year sees the launch of a number of exciting additions such as La Ferrari, Ferrari 812 Superfast, Maserati Gran Cabrio and Gran Turismo (facelift) and BMW M3 and M4 (facelift).

The company’s ‘pre-approved’ division is extremely popular and offers great deals on a wide range of models.

64 April 2017

Meanwhile, the workshop facilities boast state-of-the-art equipment. Among other things, the body shop contains a waterborne paint technology system, which is the first of its kind to be used by BMW and Land Rover in the Middle East region. The paint is environmentally friendly and is the same as used in the factories of the principals.

Behbehani Brothers: Porsche Centre Bahrain.

Porsche is a sports car manufacturer with the iconic 911 DNA across all models. Some of the most popular two-door options in the sports car segment include the 911, Cayman and Boxster.

This year at the 87th Geneva International Motor Show, the new 911 GTS and 911 GT3 were revealed. Customers in Bahrain can place an order for these models now.

Meanwhile, the company’s warranty – Porsche Approved – offers a number of

benefits, including worldwide validity that is redeemable in every Porsche Centre, an optional duration of 12 to 24 months, and vehicles being inspected in compliance with a 111-point checklist.

Almoayyed Motors: Nissan.

With showrooms in Sitra, Muharraq and Exhibition Road, this marque has a considerable presence in the Kingdom. The Almoayyed PreOwned Cars programme boasts a number of racy models with special packages available.

Almoayyed Motors: Infiniti.

The Infiniti Q60 is set to launch this year. The coupe features a new V6 twin-turbo. Gasoline direct injection, water-cooled air charging, a turbo speed sensor and advanced turbine blade design make for quicker response and a higher peak. www.bahrainthismonth.com

sportscarfeature

MCLAREN 570S

Beauty and a Beast

As grand prix excitement grips the Kingdom, Charlie Holding takes this Formula 1-inspired mean machine for a test drive.

You never forget your first love. It’s special, unique and it stays with you forever. You also never forget your first McLaren, providing you’re lucky enough to get behind the wheel of one!

The chances are, when you think of McLaren, you envision a breathtaking supercar or a Formula 1 force of nature. But the company’s newest range – the Sports Series – is something a little different.

The more attainable and multi-award-winning Sports Series was conceived to introduce McLaren DNA and performance credentials to the sports car segment. With a road-biased nature, yet still honing race-derived technologies to offer supercar levels of performance, the new series provides enhanced all-round usability and promises an exhilarating and fun driving experience.

The 570S is a beautiful car and is instantly recognisable as a McLaren. Inspired by the P1 supercar, slimline light blade LED tail lights accentuate an expanse of open mesh for enhanced engine cooling and a technical, futuristic appearance. The mid-mounted engine is visible beneath the lightweight mesh, while an aggressive ‘floating’ diffuser enhances downforce for supremely confident handling.

It incorporates a unique body styling, including the Sport Aero Pack with new rear www.bahrainthismonth.com

diffuser, front splitter and side skirts, and an even more driver-focused chassis that further increases its appeal, while maintaining the day-to-day usability central to the Sports Series DNA. From the moment you slip inside, this model screams class, capability and sheer driving pleasure. And, getting in is half the fun. A signature McLaren feature, the dihedral doors swing open to make entering and leaving a spectacle for envious drivers to enjoy.

Admittedly, getting inside requires a little work and perhaps a few yoga classes under your belt, but once seated it’s well worth the effort.

For me, the sound of the engine as you turn the ignition is a pretty accurate indicator of the power at your disposal. Simply tap the start button of this beautiful beast and it lets out a roar that rings in your ears, instantly putting a smile on your face.

Under the bonnet is a 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 that generates 562bhp and makes the dash from 0-100kmph in just 3.2 seconds, barely enough time for you to say wow!

McLaren is marketing this car as ‘equally at home on the track as it is on the open road’ and it’s clear to see why after an afternoon cruising around the island. It is completely driver-centric and performance oriented.

Like most sports cars, there are several driving modes to choose from and each drastically alters the experience. The system can be set to Normal, Sport or Track on the

Active Dynamics Panel, allowing the optimum setting for any road or track condition.

In all honesty, I never dared to switch to Track mode because the ‘normal’ setting puts most sports cars I’ve driven to shame. This car is like a rocket, regardless of which setting you choose, thanks in part to the carbon fibre construction that dramatically reduces the weight.

The MonoCell II is a strong chassis that weighs just 75kg and provides immense rigidity and stiffness that translates into outstanding dynamics. This lightweight construction coupled with the potent mid-mounted V8 provides the best power-to-weight ratio of any sports car in its class.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate enough to drive some of the best, most expensive, fastest and all around amazing cars on the market (not to brag). One thing that never ceases to entertain me is the envious look of other motorists when I pull up beside them at traffic lights. Even without the bright yellow paint job, the 570S is guaranteed to turn heads and that’s exactly what it did.

When it comes to the handling, this is perhaps the most fun car I’ve ever driven. The slightest caress of the wheel is all it takes to bend to your whim and cornering is a breeze thanks to the vehicle’s low centre of gravity.

If you can only dream of driving this car, take comfort knowing at least you can still see Jenson Button pushing a McLaren to its limits at the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

April 2017 65

MOTORING

CORPORATE HANDOVER This ceremony marks a milestone in the relationship between two companies, which started last year when they launched the first luxury taxi service in the Kingdom.

A

l Haddad Motors, the Kingdom’s distributor for Mercedes-Benz, held a corporate handover ceremony for City Limo, delivering 10 new V-Class vehicles for the company’s luxury fleet.

Since its formation in 2016, the partnership between the companies has grown from strength to strength and the addition of these new vans is a testament to the trust and confidence they share.

The luxury vehicles are available for corporate and individual transportation within Bahrain as well as for trips to Saudi Arabia.

Representatives from Al Haddad Motors, City Limo and Daimler Middle East attended the 66 April 2017

event. Abdulla Al Haddad, director of Al Haddad Motors, and corporate sales manager Joel George, were joined by City Limo vice chairman, Nayef Al Alawi, and general manager, Ahmed Yousif. Also in attendance was Stefan Benu, regional sales manager for Mercedes-Benz Vans Middle East and Levant.

Mr Al Alawi says: “City Limo’s promise of luxury travel and customer-centric approach is setting a new benchmark within the radio taxi and chauffeur-driven services industry in Bahrain. Our attention to detail, combined with the largest and latest range of Mercedes Benz products, will definitely boost our image and business footprint within the Kingdom.”

ALSO THIS MONTH: 71 A RACY NUMBER 73 A SLEEK SEDAN

The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is a sizeable people carrier, which boasts plenty of space and a premium interior that exudes class and comfort. It has up to eight seats – depending on configuration – making it ideal for family or business. It has also earned the prestigious Red Dot Award, cementing it as one of the world’s most luxuriously designed cars.

The V-Class is offered in three variants: Standard, Avantgarde and Exclusive.

Call Al Haddad Motors on 17 785-454 for a test drive. For the best rates to hire a luxurious passenger van or car from City Limo, call 77 773-737. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The car of the future has arrived.

Al Haddad Motors, Kingdom of Bahrain. Tel: 17785454 marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com, www.bahrain.mercedesbenzme.com

bystander

get-togethers were held Luncheon Get-Together Luncheon for Mala Kumar’s visit to Bahrain.

Cristina, Liliane, Shaikha Hind, Mala, Debbie, Fati, Huda, Karina & Afshan

Top L to R: Norma, Doris, Anisa, Mala, Anne, Asha, Balqees & Mariam Seated L to R: Debbie, Lynne & Rashida

Luncheon hosted by Asha Shetty with prominent members of the Indian ladies’ community

Shaikh Mohammed, Shirley, Shaikha Huda, Mala, Mauri, Rashida, Anne, Hussain & George

Rehana, Démet, Mala, Margaret, Heather & Karina

Mary, Farida, Mala, Shirley, Rebab, Sheikha Leila, Véronique, Angèle & Nadia

Rocio, Shandra, Véronique & Mala

Purna & Lorelie

10th Season Opening The Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park held its 10th season opening at its premises.

Esmail, Christina & Adnan

68 April 2017

Abdulla, Hamed & Mohammed Ghareeb

Sumaya & Sumaya

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Janet & Eugene

Nicola & David

Lyndon & Billie Jo

Shay & JK

St Patrick’s Ball

The Bahrain Irish Society hosted the St Patrick’s Day Ball. Over 700 guests attended. Entertainment on the night was headlined by the Brass Tacks and the Celtic Drummers who flew in from Ireland. Local acts Victoria Dance and the Dwyer’s also entertained. The party went on till the wee hours and finished up with a traditional breakfast roll being served.

Gavin, Janet, Emily, Cliona & Mohammed

Jamie, Amanda, Jules, Gavin, Dona & Vanessa

Paula, Mike & Susanna

Andy, May, Louise & Michael

Amanda, Jules & Vanessa

Derraugh & Stephanie

70 April 2017

Michelle & Ryan

Stephan, Zoe, Lisa & Ryan

Aisling, Siobhan & Sinead

Paul & Erica

Kara, Chantelle, Martine & Kirsty

Hazel, Anne-Marie, Joseph & Thom

Dmitry & Natasha

Emily, Melissa & Kim

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring EURO MOTORS

A Racy Number

If you’re looking for increased ride comfort and dynamic driving appeal, this may be the model for you.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The new BMW 5 Series Touring is nothing short of eye-catching and is packed with a number of intelligent features to ensure drivers can sit back and enjoy the ride.

To add to the appeal, the model is available with M Performance accessories to give it an even sportier presence. These kits provide more power for the engine and increase driving performance without influencing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, according to the EU test cycle.

A BMW Power and Sound Kit for the six-cylinder 540i xDrive Touring increases output to 360bhp and raises maximum torque to 500Nm. It optimises the engine’s response and pulling power too, and, what’s more, the spirited delivery is accompanied by a striking, sporty sound thanks to the silencer system.

The BMW M Performance exhaust system is available as a separate accessory – both for the BMW 540i xDrive Touring and the BMW 530i Touring.

In both models, the respective stainless steel sports silencer not only ensures a characteristic sound but also adds an attractive touch of visual flair. Depending on engine type and equipment, it comes with either round or trapezoid tailpipe trims in chrome or carbon fibre, and the trims are available as separate accessories for all variants of the new model.

The available M Performance sports brake system offers a high level of thermal resilience, ensuring constant deceleration even during dynamic driving.

Further, red brake calipers serve as a visual indication of the fact that the design is derived from motor racing.

The car’s driving characteristics and appearance can be customised with the use of M Performance Parts that also improve aerodynamics. The range includes attachments for the front bumper in carbon fibre and a dual-section diffuser insert for the rear apron. The lower section of the rear diffuser is available in handcrafted carbon fibre and a more discreet version made of polyurethane (PUR), which can be painted according to the customer’s preference.

The inside is plush and one of the obvious highlights is the sports steering wheel. With its rim in Alcantara, complete with silver-grey cross-stitch seam and red central marking at the 12 o’clock position, the BMW M Performance sports steering wheel ensures intense motorsport steering at all times – not just on winding country roads.

All components are fully subject to the high BMW Group standards in terms of material selection, design and quality of workmanship. What’s more, retrofitting these items has no impact on the vehicle’s warranty.

Euro Motors is the Kingdom’s BMW dealership.

Call the Sitra showroom on 17 750-750.

April 2017 71

bystander

St Patrick’s Ball

John & Carrie

Angela & Amy

Kelly & Alex

Orla, Molly, Gayle, Diane, Leslie & Katie

Sarah & Jacinta

72 April 2017

Diane & Gayle

Eadaoin, Denise, Susan, Rasin & Auibheann

Alicia, Angela, Hazel, Anne-Marie & Christine

Greer & Daniel

Mark, Julie, Niamh & John

Ciara, Melanie, Natalie, Liz & Rosie

Liz, Dona & Jules

Alex, Kim & Jen

Chris & Angela

Shaun, Kurt, Tom, Brian & Jason

Callan & Paula

Ciara & Liz

Sue & Pam

Lisa & Jennifer

Lamee & Aline

Jules, Molly & Jim

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring

MOTOR CITY

A Sleek Sedan It’s been redesigned, revamped and re-launched to critical acclaim, yes; the new 2017 Subaru Impreza has arrived.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

One of the highlights of the new model is Subaru’s Global Platform architecture, designed to deliver higher levels of driving agility, increased protection against crashes and increased ride comfort. The technology will be the underpinning platform in a variety of upcoming Subaru vehicles.

The Impreza is a great example of the marque’s new design language, which sees the body sleeker and stronger than ever. In fact, structural rigidity is up by 70 per cent and there is a 40 per cent improvement in crash energy absorption – compared to the outgoing model.

Offered in two variants, the Impreza 2.0i and 2.0i Sport are available as four-door sedans with a revised version of the four-cylinder Subaru Boxer engine that now generates 152bhp.

The Sport version features 17-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension and Active Torque Vectoring, exclusive exterior styling and upgrades such as an 8.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system, keyless access, push-button start, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to name but a few.

“Subaru has developed a very loyal customer base in Bahrain, which is a reflection of our continuous

efforts to offer one of the best cars in its class with the highest levels of customer service and satisfaction,” says Motorcity’s senior general manager, Bijan Majidi. “The new 2017 Subaru Impreza maintains the same high standards that customers have come to expect from the brand but with additional features.”

Prices start from BD6,195.

Call 17 736-222 or visit the Motor City showroom in Sitra.

The Subaru Impreza recently received the 2016– 2017 Car of the Year Japan award. This is the second time Subaru has been won the honour, following the Legacy’s win in 2003. Since its launch in Japan, it out performed its monthly sales target of 2,500 units by more than fourfold, with 11,050 orders.

Demand from customers switching from other brands has been especially notable, representing 51 per cent of all orders and indicating that the new Impreza is attracting a wider range of customers in Japan.

April 2017 73

motoringnews&launches

Crossover of the Year

Wheels magazine named the new Ford Edge Crossover of the Year for 2017 at its annual awards ceremony.

The Edge has proved to be exceptionally popular in the Middle East since its launch, having already topped the judges’ wish list in its segment for Lebanon’s Automobile Car of the Year, Oman’s Automan Car of the Year and EVO Middle East’s Car of the Year.

The Wheels Car of the Year is now in its ninth year and is the region’s largest independent automotive awards event.

“Ford vehicles have a reputation for being the most fun to drive, and, with the dynamic technology packages we have developed for the Ford Edge, we have set a new standard in the CUV segment,” says Crystal Worthem, director of marketing, Ford Middle East and Africa. “To receive such a coveted award is confirmation of Ford’s continued leading presence in this important segment.”

Future of Road Safety

The head of Hyundai in Africa and the Middle East is predicting a revolution in car safety in the next five years, as a wave of massmarket models that can predict and automatically respond to danger arrives in showrooms.

Today’s new cars already rate highly for protecting drivers and passengers in a collision – this is called ‘passive safety’. Mike Song, the Korean carmaker’s head of operations in the region, says we are now entering a new era of ‘active safety’, as marques race to offer the best possible collision avoidance technology in new models.

Current models already include active safety features such as anti-lock braking systems and electronic stability control to reduce the risk of the car skidding or spinning in an emergency.

Carmakers want to overcome this human factor. At Hyundai, the most recent models combine a package of innovations as ‘Hyundai Smart Sense’, which includes autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, active blind spot detection, driver attention alert, advanced smart cruise control and around view monitor.

Genuine Parts Awareness Expo

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, distributor of Toyota in Bahrain, participated in the Consumer Protection Awareness Expo for Genuine and 74 April 2017

Counterfeit Spare Parts.

Organised by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism’s Consumer

Protection Directorate, the exhibition raises awareness of the benefits of using genuine automobile parts and the overall importance of high safety standards.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo senior manager of Toyota marketing, Ayman Shehadeh says these nongenuine parts often very closely resemble the originals and it is difficult for most customers to be able to tell the difference.

“The best way to know for certain that you are purchasing genuine parts for your car is to buy them from the authorised distributor of that particular brand. By using genuine parts, you will extend the life of the vehicle and reduce the chances of failure while driving on the road. It is a requirement for a safer driving experience and gives both drivers and passengers more peace of mind, he explains.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Norma, Mary & Jane

Lisa, Linda & Michelle

St Patrick’s Brunch

Atiram Premier Hotel held a St Patrick’s Day Brunch at Wembley.

Ben, Shell & Kaan

Hassan, Anil, Ravi & Sobin

Etch, Aisling, J Mccaain, Alvis & Aline

Hamada, Marco & Ebo

Denise

Marlene, Denise, Silva, Dinky, Mandy & Jini

www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

April 2017 75

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

reMarkable - The tablet for people who prefer paper

YouTube TV - The new cable TV

Here to replace your notebooks, sketchbooks and printouts. It has paper-like reading, writing and sketching with digital powers in the palm of your hand.

Available from www.getremarkable.com

The much-anticipated TV streaming service from this online video company has arrived. It streams a slew of premium broadcast and cable networks to your mobile device, tablet, computer and anything with Chromecast.

Available at: www.tv.youtube.com/welcome

Meet (by Google) Meet is Google’s new video conferencing platform built for enterprise communication. The announcement of this service was just a short two weeks after the release of Amazon Chime – a rival conferencing platform by Amazon.

Available at: https://meet.google.com

The LG G6 - Big screen, small phone The LG G6 features a unique aspect ratio of 18:9, a beautiful 5.7-inch display, and dual 13 megapixel cameras (with dual flash). Additionally, like the Google Pixel, the LG G6 also features the Google Assistant. So, if you’re on the hunt for a new smartphone, here’s one more to consider.

Available from www.lg.com/us/mobile-phones/g6

Popcorn - Discover your new favourite movie Have you ever struggled to find the right movie to watch?

Well, never again, because with Popcorn you’ll be able to find the right film whenever and wherever you are.

Available from www.getpopcorn.io

76 April 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

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

Palace & Spa held its Holi Celebration AlHoliAreen celebrations at Roti Boti.

Sumon, Gabriel, Aileen & Simon

VERDICT:

App: Colorfy Rating:

A simple-to-use and organised news aggregator.

What is it?

Sunita & Manjit

Aman & Simran

This is a free app that helps you to organise your news. It can be called a visual news reader – a category of apps made famous by the likes of Flipboard and LinkedIn Pulse. Those apps, however, focus more on the curation of news, letting you browse through sections to find publishers to follow. NewsTab gives you greater flexibility by letting you add RSS feeds.

When you start, the app asks you to pick some areas of interest, such as technology, politics, science and so on.

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The Good:

There are sharing options in the article cards and you can toggle a simplified article view while reading, and these are cool features to have.

In terms of its functionality, NewsTab finely straddles the line between being a news curation source and an RSS feed reader. The app is free, loads quickly, looks good and doesn’t ask you to sign up.

GDN-Ad.pdf

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Alison, Neha, Gabriel & Marise

The Bad:

The overall layout doesn’t really help you to quickly read through your sources like you would with an RSS reader, nor does it have the same elegance as some of the other visual readers on the market. The feeds are divided into cards, which are all the same size and format, so it doesn’t really help any single story to stand out. Also, you can’t add a Twitter feed as a source, despite its usefulness as instant news.

App: Zoho Notebook This is a great app for taking notes on your devices. It is minimalist, has been designed well and is a step up over Apple Notes. At the same time, you have a whole host of features such as checklists, attachments and voice memos.

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App: WiFire WiFire finds all open Wi-Fi networks around you and helps you navigate to them. The app shows you how far you are from the nearest public Wi-Fi network and its speed.

It has a fantastic database of Wi-Fi points and will help you stay connected when you run out of mobile data. www.bahrainthismonth.com

April 2017 77

music

Minus the Bear – Voids What’s the story?

The Seattle-based indie rockers’ sixth full-length release, and their first outing since the departure of long-time kit man Erin Tate, Voids arrives three years after Minus the Bear’s B-sides and rarities collection, Lost Loves, and five years after their last proper studio LP, Infinity Overhead.

Worth a listen?

New drummer Kiefer Matthias is more than up to the task. The band’s penchant for pairing tight, loopy beats and maths-based guitar noodling with sinewy verse melodies is on display early with the lovelorn opener Last Kiss, one of several cuts that mines heartache and missed connections for emotional riches. Knotty follow-up Give & Take and the propulsive Robot Heart lean harder on the band’s post-punk tendencies, while the moody Silver distils both predilections into one of their most immediate and compelling songs to date.

Two of Voids’ best offerings, the soulful Call the Cops and the atmospheric closer Lighthouse, flirt with dream pop, but the staccato guitar work and soulful croon of frontman Jake Snider helps to keep things firmly recognisable. Despite their five-year absence from the studio, the band still sound like the well-oiled machine they were at the start. There’s a bit more pure pop on this album but it retains the left-field charm that made the band one of the more captivating acts to watch amidst the alt-to-indie rock shift that dominated the late ‘90s and early 2000s.

Verdict: An easy and soulful listen.

Shorts

Sondre Lerche – Pleasure

Grandaddy – Last Place

Johnossi – Blood Jungle

After a few albums in a row that staked out Sondre Lerche’s claim as one of the better pop craftsmen around, the Norwegian crooner takes a whiplash-inducing left turn on this latest album. He carefully sets aside the guitar-heavy, almost middle-of-the-road pop sound he’d so carefully developed in favour of an approach that relies on programmed drums and loads of icy synthesisers – putting guitars mostly in the passenger seat. It’s a daring move that might have seemed cheesy or opportunistic in the hands of a lesser artist, but Lerche is skilled enough to wrangle very imaginative sounds, fill the arrangements with hook after hook, and make sure to fill the centre of the cotton-candy pop with a heart made of real emotion.

In the 10 years since Grandaddy last released an album, their guiding force, Jason Lytle, stayed busy with solo albums and other projects. When he stepped back in to record Last Place, it was as if nothing had changed.

The sound of the album is very similar to where Grandaddy left off; in fact, it’s very similar to the solo albums Lytle made while the band name was on ice. The album balances ballads and midtempo songs with lots of synths in the mix.

Lytle’s offbeat lyrical angle, plaintive vocals and the occasional epic space opera featuring the recurring humanoid character Jed – are all the hallmarks of a Lytle project in full effect. Thanks to a strong batch of songs and some interesting production, the record is a strong comeback.

Hard-rocking Swedish duo Johnossi have been a perennial success in Europe for over the past decade, delivering consistently with their arena-scale anthems. While widespread success in the West has so far eluded them, it’s certainly not for lack of trying. On Blood Jungle, they expand their scope yet another notch. Since the beginning, John Engelbert and Oskar ‘Ossi’ Bonde have centred their approach on the basic combo of guitar and drums, trying on various production styles along the way. Standout cuts like Air Is Free and Tall Dark Man are full of big, meaty hooks and memorable melodies. Elsewhere, many of the tracks on Blood Jungle feel a bit too overworked.

78 April 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games Review Game: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Rating:

What is it?

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an action-adventure game developed and published by Nintendo for its new Switch system and the Wii U. It is the 19th release in the Legend of Zelda series. The story is set in Hyrule and follows amnesiac protagonist Link, who awakens from a 100-year slumber to a mysterious voice that guides him to defeat Calamity Ganon.

Gameplay:

Verdict:

An incredible open-world adventure.

Breath of the Wild departs from most games in the Zelda series, as it features an open-world environment 12 times larger than the previous game, with less emphasis on defined entrances and exits to areas. Gamers can explore freely at their own pace rather than following a defined path.

Players control Link, who can jump and climb almost any surface.

He can find various items in the world, including weapons, shields, clothing and even food that can be eaten or cooked to restore health.

Weapons break after excessive use, but many have multiple uses; for example, tree branches can be used to light fires and shields can be used as makeshift snowboards.

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Wildlands Wildlands is the very first military shooter set in a massive, dangerous and responsive open-world that you can play entirely solo or in a four-player co-op.

Facing an almighty enemy in a huge and hostile Bolivian environment, the Ghosts will need to make critical moral choices and engage in tough battles to complete their mission – their grittiest and most dangerous to date.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The combat is fluid and fun, made even better with the classic swords and gadgets of the Zelda lore, while puzzles can be tackled in a number of different ways to ensure multiple playthroughs.

Graphics:

Hyrule is as beautiful as expected, especially on the Switch, which is a major step up for Nintendo in terms of processing power. Grassy fields, snowy mountains and dense forests pierced with glistening rivers look absolutely delightful in the game’s almost comic-esque aesthetic. The monster design is innovative, the soundtrack is sharp and the voice acting is solid although unspectacular.

Typoman

Typoman is a two-dimensional puzzle platformer distinguished by a unique game world. You slip into the role of the HERO struggling to make your way through a dark, surreal world. Despite your small stature you have a powerful gift – you can use letters to alter your environment. Set out on the journey to become whole and gain the powers you need to defeat the giant, evil demon that rules the world you are trapped in.

Horizon: Zero Dawn

Horizon is an exhilarating action role playing game developed by the award- winning Guerrilla Games, creators of PlayStation’s venerated Killzone franchise. As main protagonist and skilled hunter Aloy, explore a vibrant and lush world inhabited by mysterious mechanised creatures. Embark on a compelling, emotional journey and unravel mysteries of tribal societies, ancient artefacts and advanced technologies that will determine the fate of the planet and of life itself.

April 2017 79

websites VERDICT: An intriguing and well-executed concept.

Wolfgang Puck Brunch The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay hosted its revamped Wolfgang Puck Brunch at CUT. Pierre, Brian & James

Frankie Flowers

Site: www.worldc.am/ Rating: What is it?

Veronika, Rumena & Josie

Rowena & Omran

This website lets you find geo-tagged Instagram photos. Just enter the location of a place and it will load up with images taken near the mentioned address. These images tend to be very recently taken at that location.

The Good

The website has the most up-to-date photos you can imagine, some even taken today. If you type in any location in the world, it will be featured on the site providing that a picture has been taken there and been tagged as such. It’s a good tool to scout for potential holidays.

Abdulrahman

Karen

Rumena, George, Veronika, Anne & Kathryn

80 April 2017

If you take a photo in a location, there’s a good chance that it will be available for the entire world to see if it’s searched for. There are no privacy options, so selfies or photos of your children can be viewed by all.

https://www.producthunt.com/

Karen, Veronika, Ahlam & Layal

Kurt, Natalie, Susan & Lerika

The Bad

Ahlam

Want to be the first to know about the best new products and services that launch?

Product Hunt is sort of like Reddit for entrepreneurs and creative people who want to promote their new tech products/services, books, games or podcasts. Like Reddit, you can get involved in the voting and discussions as well.

https://www.quora.com/ Yahoo Answers has been the general go-to site to crowdsource answers to questions, but they’re not always terribly useful, informative or even correct.

Quora, on the other hand, has a much higher quality community of members with knowledge on every topic under the sun. Search for questions, create your own or offer your answers to others. www.bahrainthismonth.com

movies

Film: Logan Rating:

VERDICT: A violent, visceral masterpiece.

BSPCA Dog Walk The Bahrain Society for the Prevention of

Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) held its annual charity dog walk at its premises in Askar.

Abi & Dhara

Anwar & Isa

Directed by: James Mangold Starring: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Dafne Keen

The Plot:

In the near future, a weary Logan cares for an ailing Professor X in a hideout on the Mexican border. But Logan’s attempts to hide from the world and his legacy are upended when a young mutant arrives, being pursued by dark forces.

Nadia & Tala

Arwa, Raghad & Shouq

Worth Watching?

If you’re an X-Men fan who has been dying to see Wolverine truly unleashed on the silver screen, not held back by pandering to an age rating, then this is the film for you. The brutality and language are equally as violent, with splashes of red and gut-wrenching revelations almost constant.

This is an emotional rollercoaster with incredible performances, notably from the wizened Stewart and the grizzly Jackman, who dons the iconic claws for the last time.

Probably the first true superhero western, this trawl through dusty plains and ravaged wasteland is a tour de force, instantly watchable whether or not you’re a fan of the genre, or even if you’ve never seen an X-Men movie before. Truly outstanding.

Split

Though Kevin (James McAvoy) has evidenced 23 personalities to his trusted psychiatrist, Dr Fletcher (Betty Buckley), there remains one still submerged who is set to materialise and dominate the others. Compelled to abduct three teenage girls led by the wilful, observant Casey, Kevin reaches a war for survival among all of those contained within him – as well as everyone around him. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Nidhin, Maneesh & Vivek

Khalid

Kong: Skull Island

In 1973, a secretive organisation known as Monarch finds an island that is shrouded in mystery and identified as the origin for new species. The expedition to the island reveals that a giant monstrous ape named Kong is at the centre of a battle for dominion over the island.

As the expedition crew makes plans to fight for survival against Kong and the other monsters on the island, some of them begin to see that the ape is worth saving.

Nihad, Nahla & Nibras

Graeme & Amy

Haifa, Rayan & Lia

Rosana

Sara & Tess

April 2017 81

DINING

CHINO-LATINO FUSION PUJA TIWARI

ALSO THIS MONTH: 84 A TASTE OF SUNSHINE 86 GREAT GRUB

This newly opened restaurant fuses traditional Asian ingredients with Cuban fare, resulting in a flavourful marriage of cuisines.

US-based restaurant franchise Asia de Cuba recently opened its doors to the public at the stunning Gallery 21 complex in Adliya.

The space is airy and ornate. You step into a time-warp and are transported to the beautiful courtyards of Havana, complete with colossal pillars, bronze statues, living garden walls and a glass ceiling, which floods the venue with natural light. The ceiling can open up to reveal sunny skies on pleasant days.

From walking through the door, everything about this place screams artistic — from the grand chandeliers to the way the jewel-toned amethyst-hued water glasses contrast with the powder-white table cloth. I was mentally marking the restaurant with five stars and we hadn’t even looked at the culinary offerings.

As the name suggests, the venue offers Asian-meets-Latin fusion eats with signature plates from Cuban-born executive chef Luis Pous, who is in charge of menu development.

“Chino-Latino meld has existed since time immemorial, but the way we do it now is quite contemporary. Whenever I get inspired to make something new, my team and I work on it until we perfect it. Sometimes it works, other times not,” explains chef Luis.

82 April 2017

The menu is extensive, but Alexander, the manager-in-charge, helped simplify the exoticsounding dishes and made a few suggestions, which we accepted gratefully. I started with a Buena Vista, concocted with rhubarb, pineapple, passion fruit and its seeds. The tart drink packed a zesty punch, with the crunchy seeds lending it a crispy surprise.

A savoury aroma wafted in the air, and that is when we saw our food making its way to our table. A bite of the red snapper ceviche had me instantly mesmerised by the smooth flavour of the fish. It came with Thai chili, red onion and cilantro coupled with plantain chips.

My second favourite dish was the Chicken Cicharrones - tender chicken thighs with onion mojo and sesame soy glaze.

I was hesitant about trying the Tunapica Tartare as I am not a fan of raw fish, but my dining companion insisted. The diced tuna was too good for words, and the crispy wonton shell added a delightful crunch.

Alexander gave us a variation of the same dish with beetroot instead which is tasty and a great choice for vegetarians.

The black bean and plantain empanada with rocoto sweet and sour sauce sounded like an

odd combination but was actually a match made in heaven. The slight sweetness of the plantain was balanced by the starchy texture of the beans.

We were both quite full by then but couldn’t resist when we read the description of what was next.

One of the signature dishes, the Chino Latino, came with mojo roasted lamb, jasmine rice, bean sprouts, egg and edamame. The lamb was piquant and tender. The table fell silent as we began to polish it off.

Next was the Seven Spice Roasted Chicken, with snow peas, shiitake mushroom, creamy congri and maduros pan jus, but I was too full to enjoy more than two bites.

The sweetest end to the perfect meal was the Tres Leches, with cream, condensed milk and a spicy flare added by the chili chocolate ice cream. Indulgent and creamy, the sponge cake was good for sharing between two.

With its lively atmosphere, friendly service and top-of-the-range fare, the restaurant has gained immense popularity among diners and is a must-try for every gourmand.

Call 17 711-600. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Chef Ras Rajakaruna

THE DOMAIN HOTEL AND SPA

Extraordinary Culinary Choices This luxury lifestyle five-star hotel offers a catering division with an extensive programme, providing tailor made menus with tantalising choices to suit any occasion and location.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Domain Hotel and Spa brings the essence of its sumptuous food right to your doorstep. A full scale catering service is available from the kitchens that produce the food of the property’s signature restaurants Imari, Le Sauvage and Figs and Olives.

So far, the catering service is popular with private events at residences, serving groups of up to 250 people. Corporate events such as coffee breaks with light or full meal options are also available as an option to larger institutions such as banks and organisations situated in Seef, Manama and the Diplomatic Area.

You can choose between canapés or themed buffets, each customised according to your specifications for events such as weddings, bridal showers, high tea and cocktail receptions.

There are different packages/services available, tailored to your personal requirements. The chefs create menus to suit the host’s needs, working quickly and efficiently to deliver results to meet every expectation. Special consideration is given to those with food allergies and intolerances. The hotel’s welltrained waiting staff and chefs can be present to facilitate live cooking and provide unbeatable service at the chosen venue for an additional charge.

BTM sampled some delectable mini sandwiches from the catering menu – roast beef, tuna cheese, grilled vegetable and shawarma rolls. Each was presented meticulously, with bursts of flavour in every bite.

Chef Raja, the hotel’s master baker, whips up more than 50 different types of baked goods, ranging from artisan breads to pastries and cakes. Breakfast

favourites including Danish pastries, chocolate filled croissants and muffins – all hand made and fresh daily.

Specialties include the homemade sour dough bread, gluten-free options and the delicious Japanese Bintochan bun. The black wonder is made from edible Japanese Binchotan coal, which is known for its purifying and healing properties and is especially beneficial for those with stomach troubles. A special burger featuring a Wagyu beef patty and the coal bun is available at Le Sauvage.

Chef Raja’s baking escapades are boundless, limited only by the lack of certain ingredients. He says: “Given the chance, I would love to offer more varieties of bread. One of them is Brazilian bread, but unfortunately caustic soda, which is an imperative constituent to its texture and colour, is unavailable for import to Bahrain.”

Custom-made cakes and tarts include varieties of chocolate, pistachio, red velvet, vanilla and fruit, which can be made-to-order in any size and shape.

Executive chef Rukmal is all about innovative cooking. He creates flavoured salts, made with salt flakes and other ingredients imported from the UK, combined with herbs, Binchotan charcoal, chilli and saffron. These are also available for sale and make the perfect seasoning for steaks and salads.

The Domain realises that nothing short of perfection is acceptable, and a creative array of menus pours forth to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Call 16 000-000.

April 2017 83

dining FLORENCE LA MAISON MÉDITERRANÉENNE

A Taste of Sunshine

This relative newcomer on the dining scene is making a well-deserved name for itself.

Liz O’Reilly went along to find out why.

Arriving at this chic eatery in the heart of Adliya, you could be forgiven for thinking you had stepped into a Gallic seaside café, as Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne lives up to its name. Pastel and floral cushions adorn the wooden and metal furniture, light-filled spaces abound and there’s a pretty garden where the sounds of traditional French café music mingle with birdsong and the murmurs of diners enjoying the exquisite fare.

At the door, as you wait to be seated in either the spacious glass-walled interior or the generous outdoor areas, it’s hard to resist the lure of a selection of quaint wind-up music boxes, bearing the exhortation ‘Play Me’, each tinkling a favourite tune, from The Beatles to classical gems.

84 April 2017

Keen to check out the best sellers, we began our lunch with the Summer in Florence mocktail. Consisting of fresh blueberries, blueberry syrup, fresh lime juice, mint leaves and vanilla sugar topped with soda, it comes presented in a chunky glass jar and is a work of art which tastes as good as it looks.

To start with, I took a little licence and scooted across the Med to sample my favourite Middle Eastern staple, hummous. I always say that if a restaurant can get this simple, but infinitely difficult, creation right, then it bodes well for the rest of the menu. I was not disappointed. I’d chosen it served à la betterave, or with beetroot – another of my favourites. Rich and creamy and with a surprise topping of caramelised onions, it came with crispy, light tortilla chips. The sweetness of the onions perfectly balanced the depth of the beetroot and chickpeas while the fresh take on the tortillas made the dish light enough as an appetiser.

Rather than a starter, my companion chose Tartine de Halloumi, a generous tortilla stuffed with grilled halloumi, tomato, radicchio, cucumber and lettuce served with homemade sauce and olive pesto. The appeal of the dish was almost as much visual as gastronomic with its art nouveau styling. But, thankfully, the taste lived up to the presentation with the cheese cooked to a perfect consistency while the accompaniments brought out its rich piquant flavour.

For my main course, I was happy to accept the waiter’s suggestion of the sea bass which came with a creamy caper sauce. Truly, this portion would easily have served two, not to mention the range of accompaniments. Flaking apart but still moist, the fish was melt-in-themouth tender and the sauce just the right choice to enhance rather than overshadow the delicate flavour. Served with potatoes, two shades of zucchini and an abundant green-leaf salad topped with pomegranate seeds, it made for a colourful, healthy and filling plate which, I must confess, I was unable to finish. If you’re going to try this, I would strongly suggest you forgo the appetiser, delicious though it was, as I didn’t feel I did the fish justice.

By this point, I was almost ready to burst but I simply had to sample the house speciality dessert – purely in the interests of research, of course. It was a delightful confection of fluffy French toast flavoured with saffron and cardamom served on a base of crushed lotus biscuit and decorated with strawberries and raspberries. Just the description is making my mouth water and this was, by far, my favourite part of the Florence experience. An amalgamation of flavours and substance, I could simply have eaten this and left happy. I may well return and do just that. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Florence

dining

GRUB SHACK

Great Grub!

CHARLIE HOLDING This delightful American-style diner dishes up comfort food that will keep you coming back for more.

86 April 2017

The Grub Shack has a reputation that precedes it on this island. A legion of loyal customers fill the restaurant to the rafters every weekend at its premises in Hamala. The demand was so great, a second outlet has opened at The Walk in Riffa and there are some tasty surprises on the menu.

Of course, all of the popular dishes remain, but there are some new additions that are sure to delight the taste buds. I was invited down to check out the new location and, unsurprisingly, I was very impressed.

The décor distinguishes itself from the brand’s first location thanks to huge superhero comic strips that adorn the walls, giving the place a really cool vibe.

There’s plenty of seating and I’m sure the restaurant’s capacity will be stretched to the limit once diners sample the fantastic fare on offer.

The team recommend I try a few items from the new ‘Top Secret’ menu selection, how could I refuse?

To start with, they brought me the aptly titled Meat Platter. This monstrously sized dish includes American Angus beef ribs – basted with BBQ sauce, Angus rib-eye steak and BBQ-rubbed brisket with a side of coleslaw.

I’d never tried brisket before and was pleasantly surprised with how good it was. The steak – prepared medium – was juicy and tender, marinated in a slew of tantilising herbs and spices. I asked which ones, but was simply told: “that’s the secret”.

The ribs were cooked to perfection and the meat fell off the bone. The barbeque sauce was rich and tangy – a great accompaniment to the flavour of the beef. I

was told that the ribs were the most popular item on the menu and it’s easy to see why.

Next up was the creatively titled WTF Burger. I’m not entirely sure if the meaning of this acronym is much of a secret, but I am sure I can’t relay it in a family-friendly publication. Made with Angus beef, spicy fried chicken, double cheddar cheese, ketchup, mustard, pickles, lettuce and Grub Sauce, this huge burger is more than enough to satiate your hunger.

The combination of beef and chicken is unique to say the least – it’s a real gastronomic innovation. I really enjoyed the Grub Sauce and wish I could tell you what was in it, but, again, that’s a secret the team was intent on keeping.

The friendly staff members make sure your dining experience is memorable and are happy to recommend some of the most popular dishes.

The restaurant’s clientele is as varied as the extensive menu and there is something to suit every palate. Besides the burgers, ribs, chicken and grills, the ‘Grubby’ cookie-esque dessert is extremely popular. Chocolate chip and red velvet options are available, each served with ice cream to ensure your meal has a sweet ending.

Call 17 491-171/17 491-181. www.bahrainthismonth.com

FLORENCE LA MAISON MÉDITERRANÉENNE

Colourful Flavours Located in the heart of the culinary zenith of Adliya is a charming Mediterranean restaurant that serves a delicious selection of fine dishes guaranteed to make your taste buds sing with joy.

When dining at Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne, guests will feel as if they were sitting in their own garden while eating healthy, homemade food.

The décor resembles a rustic, traditional Mediterranean villa, with customised antiques adorning the interior.

The menu has an impressive variety of French, Italian, Lebanese, Greek and Moroccan cuisines, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and freshly prepared food. Popular items include Gratin d’Épinard, Tourelle d’Aubergine, baked Chicken with Turkish Yoghurt Sauce or the Kashkaval Cheese & Olive stuffed Chicken served with Moroccan couscous.

As an added bonus, it’s worth noting the health benefits of these delicious dishes. Research has shown that following a Mediterranean diet can reduce the chance of developing conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and some cancers.

Royal Thai Friday Nights

Heading the kitchen team is chef Maher Ramzi, a Jordanian national who boasts over 10 years of gastronomic experience in Europe.

Patrons can enjoy and sway to the melodious tones of the in-house classical music band, consisting of two violinists and a cellist. The group plays a wide variety of classics from Spain, France, Italy and Lebanon every Thursday and Friday.

With Florence being open seven days a week, there’s no need to travel all the way to the Mediterranean for an authentic dining experience.

Enjoy your food delivered right to your doorstep with the restaurant’s delivery service.

The welcoming and friendly environment is reflected by the architecture, interior design, colours and staff, which have all contributed to making Florence a renowned destination for friends, couples and families from all walks of life.

Call 17 336-373 or follow on Instagram @Florencebahrain / Facebook Florence – La Maison Méditerranéenne.

Vijay & Ratinder

Ebru & Ali

The Gulf Hotel launched its new Thai Friday Nights at The Royal Thai restaurant.

Charbel & Rahim

Ali & Ryan

Mariam, Bharti & Madhavi

Deen, Rahim, Charbel & Nugi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Viyada & Wong Jan

Khalid

Patrick & Stephanie

April 2017 87

dining THE K HOTEL

Innovation is on the Menu

CHARLIE HOLDING With a new chef at the helm of this hotel’s plethora of restaurants, diners are truly spoiled for choice.

Nitai Chand is the new executive chef at The K Hotel in Juffair, and, if this writer’s happy tummy is any indication, that is a recipe for success.

I was invited for lunch at this iconic building, which sits neatly on a corner near the US Navy base, to sample the fare and meet the new chef.

To say chef Nitai is passionate about his work is an understatement; this man is one of the most enthusiastic chefs I’ve met. This is his second time in Bahrain, and he returns from a stint in Zanzibar. He says: “Coming back is amazing, Bahrain is a country where you have more time, freedom and can spend quality time with your family.

“At the K Hotel, I have full freedom when it comes to creating the menus and I can use all my culinary skills. For a chef, the right team is very important and we have a great one here.

From the management to the kitchen staff, everyone is very supportive and hard working.”

Having worked in eight countries with various chefs from around the world, chef Nitai likes to incorporate a little of that knowledge in every menu. He says: “Palates change, so my menu is very international and there is something for everyone.”

Chef Nitai is particularly proud of the revamped menus and weekly theme nights.

“We have a number of food and beverage 88 April 2017

outlets and we serve many types of cuisine,” he explains. “The food is high quality and prepared with passion. We try to change our theme nights every six months.

“We have an American theme every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday – with a wide variety of items but I’m particularly proud of our ribs, which are available in both beef and pork.

We’ve had a great response from our diners.”

These delicious ribs are slow cooked, infused with flavours and then baked. It takes about five hours to cook and the meat falls off the bone. Chef Nitai says it will melt in your mouth.

Meanwhile, Thursday at the K Hotel is a huge draw with crowds thanks to the Gulf-inspired fare – served in a buffet setting – and a stunning selection of seafood.

“I like to create a fusion between traditional and contemporary cooking styles,” chef Nitai says. “I started my career making traditional cuisine, but eventually I managed to incorporate elements from modern cooking into my dishes.”

Like many others, I’m trying to live a healthier lifestyle this year and it’s no secret that a balanced diet is just as important as the gym.

When I told chef Nitai about my protein-heavy dietary requirements he whipped up a special menu just for me – something he is happy to do to meet diners’ specific requirements.

First up was a fabulously presented smoked salmon dew creation, shaped like rose petals.

The old adage that you eat with your eyes first is certainly true and this dish was a feast for all the senses.

The next dish was chicken soup, which was

Executive chef Nitai Chand

creamy, rich, packed with flavour, and the perfect consistency. The main course was herb-crusted salmon, served atop a bed of broccoli mash with a side of ratatouille and saffron sauce. It was cooked to perfection and the lightly seasoned mixed herbs really brought out the flavour of the fish.

Dessert proved equally impressive with a delightful blueberry cheesecake that was, once again, presented so well I had to Instagram it – that’s why Instagram was invented, right?

If you haven’t tried chef Nitai’s food yet, you’re missing out. If you don’t believe me, I highly recommend you head to the K Hotel to sample it yourself. You can thank me later!

Call 17 360-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

MCDONALD’S

An Inclusive Experience

It’s been almost 23 years since the Golden Arches welcomed the people of Bahrain in to their world of delicious food and good old family fun, all the while creating jobs in Bahrain at one of the most unique work environments and business systems in the world.

To this day, countless young men and women join the McDonald’s team on the ground, locally owned and managed by Fakhro Restaurants Company, developing valuable business and social skills alike, the impact of which is most seen in the lives of the McDonald’s staff of the disabled community. With a mission to provide equal opportunities to all, and understanding the challenges within the environment, McDonald’s began by creating jobs for those with disabilities, challenged physically or mentally, with new tasks developed especially.

Today, 11 talented individuals have spent up to 10 years at McDonald’s, enjoying an enhanced social life with their peers who are especially trained to work alongside them, building self-confidence, working on their business skills, and are encouraged to pursue their dreams.

Two especially talented members of the team are international sports achievers, one being a Paralympic gold medalist in women’s table tennis, the other an equestrian champion. With complete support in providing flexible work schedules, employing them at the branch closest to home, and support with the tools needed to reach their goals, McDonald’s is always behind its champions every step of the way.

K Hotel held it annual staff Annual Staff Party The party at its premises.

Committing to their decades-long promise to the community, Fakhro Restaurants Company and McDonald’s also work closely with local establishments to create a safer and more accessible environment across all 21 locations in Bahrain. One distinct startup was founded by a member of the disabled community itself, with a ground understanding of requirements and a keen eye on supportive technology to make everyone’s time at McDonald’s all the more enjoyable.

Bilal & Monica

Sanju, Jimmy & Faisal

Mathias, Volker, Marc & Hussain

Rehana & Bea

Christine & Soe

Cynthia & Aman

Doreen & Maricel

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Nitai & Ishtiyak

Salim & Rahedul

Abdul Samad & Islam

Shahid & Qasim

April 2017 89

dining

YASALAM!

Funky Culinary Offerings Customisable shawarmas, salads and burgers are up for grabs at this upbeat restaurant in Hamala Hills.

90 April 2017

After the success of its debut in Uptown Village, on Budaiya Highway, fast-casual diner YaSalam! is now open at Hamala Hills.

It is a family-friendly hangout which caters to youngsters as well as adults with exclusive, vintage arcade games such as Street Fighter II and Pac-Man to keep diners entertained and add a touch of retro to the décor.

The eatery, which is a part of Al Abraaj Restaurants Group, has successfully grown its reach locally and regionally. YaSalam! debuted four years ago in Al Aali Shopping Complex, and then went on to establish its first branch in Dubai last year.

While the menu boasts a wide selection of unique shawarmas, salads and sides, newly added burgers and kids’ meals are also proving popular. Healthier options, aside from multi-grain bread, include halloumi and falafel wraps.

Dishes come with an unusual twist on traditional fast-food favourites and offer value for money, with an inspiring range of high-quality ingredients including vegetables and meat, all prepared fresh in Bahrain.

Customisation is key when it comes to the food, and the possibilities are truly endless.

The restaurant’s concept of traditional Arabian and Western street food, with a dash of adventure, is inspired by the Arabic expression ‘Ya Salam’, used when one is extremely impressed. It is characterised by funky, action-packed pop art featuring Middle Eastern elements that reflect its authentic core. With

plenty of colour to lend an attractive vibe, this eatery promises to be not just a feast for the taste buds but also for the senses.

Customers can either choose their fare directly off the menu or build their own dish with the restaurant’s distinctive checklist range of toppings, meats, breads and more. With up to six delicious hot or cold fillings, the tailored combination is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.

The fixed menu has a plethora of beef, pulled lamb, chicken breast, grills and Arabic saj dishes.

The healthy Superfood Shawarma is packed with the nutritional goodness of healthy grains and greens; another choice on offer is the delightful street food staple malghoom.

As for the new burger meals section, diners can enjoy an extensive selection catering to both meat eaters and vegetarians. The choices include classics such as cheeseburgers and grilled chicken sandwiches, along with specials such as the YaSalam! double smoke burger, wild mushroom, and falafel burger.

In addition, the restaurant can now deliver to more areas across the Kingdom. Aside from Seef and Saar, new areas include Madinat Hamad, Hamala, Al Jasra, A’ali, Janabiya, Boori, Dumistan and more. You can call on the delivery hotline or order through Talabat.

Call 17 434-317. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Delivery Line

17 43 43 17

dining AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

An Enticing April

Michal Sindelar

This destination resort has monthlong recreational activities for all the family.

92 April 2017

Come April, Al Areen Palace & Spa Bahrain has an exciting line-up of events and promotions for guests to enjoy.

Be wowed by international magician-illusionist Michal Sindelar, from the Czech Republic, and spend a memorable Easter holiday hunting eggs, collecting goodies and enjoying a sumptuous lunch buffet with live entertainment at the hotel’s Grand Wadi Tent on Easter Sunday, April 16, all for BD13++.

Michal will also perform at the hotel’s restaurants to entertain guests during this weekend (April 14-15), which sees as well the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the nearby racing circuit.

Saffron restaurant will host the Turkish Food Festival from April 20-23, offering an array of hot and cold mezze, juicy meat dishes and vegetarian fare all prepared by chef Turgut Ay, a guest from Turkey, specialising in Turkish-Ottoman cuisine. There will also be a showcase and live entertainment by members of the Mersin Classical Turkish Music Ensemble.

A lucky winner of this event’s social media competition can will receive one ticket to Istanbul, absolutely free. Check out Al Areen Palace & Spa’s Facebook page and Instagram handle @ alareenpalaceandspa to learn more.

Chill out at Family Fun Weekends at Saffron’s poolside on Fridays and Saturdays during April. Priced at BD10, the offer is inclusive of taxes and five coupons worth BD2, each giving access to different food stalls, the swimming pool and kids’ area.

Award-winning restaurant Keizo’s master chefs will guide you through the fragrant world of Asian spices, fruits and vegetables at cooking classes on April 8 and 29, at a fee of BD10 per class, inclusive of complimentary drinks, ingredients, recipes and a

certificate of participation.

This restaurant also offers a 30 per cent discount for booking a romantic dining experience at its private island gazebos and an additional 20 per cent discount on thw à la carte dinner menu order. The booking includes rose petal decoration, a centrepiece, flowers, candles and more on request.

Al Areen Spa offers pure bliss with 120 minutes of special treatments, including steam bath, rain mist shower, a choice of body scrub or Moroccan bath, Swedish massage and refreshments, plus 30 minutes in the hammam garden and swimming pool for only BD80 all inclusive.

It’s not too late in the year to lose weight and get fit with an exclusive gym membership at the hotel’s health club and fitness centre providing you value for money and access to the best gym equipment and classes.

Members get full access to the gym, pool facilities, hammam garden (Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms), participation in fitness and wellness activities, plus special discounts on selected spa treatments, villas and restaurants.

You can also grab the fantastic day pass offer, which allows access to the gym, tennis and squash courts and hammam garden, starting from BD8 on weekdays and BD12 on weekends.

Call 17 845-000, email alareen@alareenpalace.com or visit www.alareenpalace.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

YAS ISFAHANI

Bite-Size Wonders

Healthy and flavourful, this restaurant intertwines the robust taste spectrum of Persian cuisine with healthy eating to bring you an unforgettable experience.

The tapas menu is quirky and playful, crafted as sharing platters for family and friends, with value-for-money prices. With so many wonderful sounding delights, it is easy to get confused about what to order.

However, the friendly staff will help you sort the dilemma by suggesting their bestsellers.

The savoury meatballs, perforated with cinnamon sticks, makes for the perfect sweet and savoury treat, as does the pistachio samosa. The beetroot carpaccio stuffed with cheese is creamy and delightful, while the quinoa shrimp packs a flavourful Arabian punch. A notable mention goes to the stuffed mushrooms and eggplant rolls.

The stunning presentation and flavour is sure to keep you coming back for more.

Another menu with larger dishes for lunch and dinner is available all day, offering a contemporary take on customary dishes.

2:02 PM

Yas, under the umbrella of Isfahani, is the hip, new-age child of the authentic Iranian restaurant. Located at the Galleria Mall in Zinj, it serves a trendy selection of fine fare, including Persian-style tapas.

The concept was derived to appeal to the health-conscious, combining traditional ingredients such as saffron, barberries, rose petals and pomegranate with meat, poultry, superfood grains and vegetables.

The dĂŠcor reflects the marriage of modern fixtures with traditional Persian motifs, swathed in an inviting deep blue and white colour scheme. A window gives a glimpse of the busy kitchen with chefs expertly grilling food and an open-top clay tandoor oven lets you witness the theatrics behind Advertistment Final A.pdf 3/29/17 the makingIsfahani of freshlyResturant baked bread.

Call 17 1581-151.

If you are looking for excellent taste & unique quality, your destination is Yas-E Isfahani. Where you will find an array of mouth-watering authentic Persian dishes ranging from grills to curries, as well as the world’s first Persian Tapas. All of which are modern, healthier alternatives to enjoy.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

12 pm to 11 pm Seef mall: 17581152 Galleria mall: 17100066 Yas.isfahani Yas-e isfahani www.isfahanigroup.com

April 2017 93

dining THE FOUNDRY

Original Eats This culinary gem in the heart of Adliya offers a truly remarkable dining experience no matter what the occasion.

Whether you are looking to entertain corporate clients, hosting friends or family gatherings, The Foundry has a range of menus to impress any visitor.

The dĂŠcor of the venue has an industrially cool but unpretentious vibe with fabulous attention to detail. The bar and lounge are available for stylish private parties, with delicious drinks and canapĂŠs, or choose the restaurant for sit-down dining. The lounge features exclusive cocktails with fresh, home-brewed ingredients and a beverage list renowned for both quality and reasonable pricing. A great range of mocktails has been designed in-house and, like The Foundry, they

are distinctive and original.

The Foundry specialises in fresh, seasonal European and American food, taking advantage of prime imported meats, local seafood, fruits and vegetables. Weekday lunchtimes offer an affordable menu featuring British classics like fish and chips and a creative take on burgers. The weekend roast lunch is an authentic example of a traditional British staple and is a must-try. The all-day-dining menu has several signature dishes, with some items being so popular that regular guests have learnt to reserve them when booking a table. The roof terrace is set to open this month in time for the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, offering exciting new food choices, a festive atmosphere and another level for events.

Call 69 960-000.

Fadia & Hawra

Irina, George & George

Charbel & Abdul

Fadia, Nasreen & Susan

Live Makeover

The Gulf Hotel held a fashion and hair makeover event featuring Juliano Asmar at its premises.

Julian Asmar presenting the makeover

Zahoor, Hoor & Faty

94 April 2017

Amira, Eman & Fatema

Maryam & Muneera

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining CAVALLI CAFFÈ

Fashionable Fare at Your Convenience This design-led eatery can offer outside catering on a small and intimate or large and very grand scale.

Cavalli Caffè, which has quickly become a favourite with both the island’s fashionistas and those who just love good food, also has an outside catering service giving the chance to enjoy chef Federico Sanna’s delectable creations at the venue of your choice.

Chef Federico and his team have catered events at some of the island’s most iconic hotels, offering a varied menu ranging from canapés, salads and roast meats to desserts and chocolates. At one stage they provided 3,200 assorted canapés in one go!

From weddings and family gatherings to in-house corporate events, there is an option to suit every group size and budget, with the possibility to pick your items off the regular menu or customise your choices. At each event the café will also provide the custom Cavalli coffee station serving a range of delicious brews.

For very special occasions there is even an in-home VIP dinner service where, for parties of 20 to 30, chef Federico will come to the hosts’ premises and cook dinner in their own kitchen.

He says: “We stick with our regular line of international food but with a twist, so you might have local hammour with Mediterranean herbs or cannelloni with shawarma. I go to meet the host to survey the kitchen and find out what exactly they want, then we can adapt the menu to their taste.”

And, ever with an eye to development, a new service is about to launch – on-board catering.

Cavalli Caffè has struck up a partnership with a local boat company and is now able to offer fully catered boat trips from a fishing breakfast to a romantic dinner and the team is also ready to cater to clients on their own private yachts or aircraft too.

Call 77 788-877.

Staff Party Asdal Gulf Inn held its 1st annual staff party at its premises.

Jayakumar & Vijay

Danita, Mohammed & Preeth

Ahmed & Amna

Ebrahim & Amani

Staff Gathering Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain held its annual staff gathering at its premises.

Ahmed, Zakaria, Fuad & Shaheen

Mohammed & Sumaya

96 April 2017

Mohammed, Anwar, Zakaria & Zaid

Kristina, Sana, Manel & Bader

Jakir, Komail & Mahmood

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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dining MAKI

Have a Happy Birthday!

What better place to celebrate your yearly milestone than at this upmarket Japanese restaurant that serves delectable oriental fare and sinful desserts.

Along with an updated, sophisticated look, Maki, the contemporary Japanese eatery, now offers a delicious collection of birthday cakes.

The star of the recently launched birthday cake menu is a sumptuous offering in which the rich flavours of white and dark chocolate meld resulting in a decadent creation. Other goodies include lemon, icecream and pistachio cakes, all of which will tickle your taste buds. With the exception of the icecream cake, these treats need be ordered just 24 hours prior to your event at Maki and are a perfect continuation to the restaurant’s innovative Japanese cuisine.

Besides birthday cakes, Maki offers other desserts such as Pain Perdu, made with brioche bread, caramel sauce and vanilla ice

cream to completely deluge you in sweettooth heaven. There’s also the very popular and pretty Terrarium Matcha (green tea) Tiramisu, which gained the admiration of two million Internet users on a popular website.

Guests continue to enjoy the variety of maki rolls, such as Amer Maki, Tara Maki and Oliver Maki, which contains 30 ingredients.

The use of extra virgin olive oil instead of other sauces in many of the dishes makes them healthful and guilt-free. This trend carries on with the launch of healthy and delicious menu items including Akagome Salmon and the Kurogome Tofu Teppanyaki, both made with red and black rice.

Other signature dishes include Sushi Jewels — a magnificent glass case that houses 12 pieces of sushi topped with secret, housemade sauces — as well as the Tartufo Yaki Udon, consisting of udon noodles with seafood, truffles and truffle oil.

Chocolate Cake

Strawberry Cheese Cake

Call 17 522-733.

Tuscan Food Festival

Sofitel Bahrain hosted a media dinner to introduce the launch of its Tuscan Food Festival ‘For the Love of Tuscany’ at Fiamma Restaurant.

Jawad Mini Marathon

Ala’A, Sara, Samy Bukhaled & Camille

Jawad Business Group held its annual Jawad Mini Marathon to raise awareness about autism in children in Bahrain at the Jawad Dome.

Sophia & Ahmed

Abbas & Jawad M Jawad

Sara & Khaled

Deepty, Haseen & Payaam

98 April 2017

Mohsin, Hassan Jawad, Jaffar & Salman

Jerome

Chef Manuelo

Eli & Maria

Mehdi

Khalifa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Luxurious Gastronomy

Route De La Mer

Indulge in this exciting five-star property’s delightful epicurean offers for the month of April.

Embark on a magnificent journey combining Bahraini hospitality with a French welcome at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Perched on the pristine beach of Zallaq overlooking the Arabian Gulf, this spectacular seawater spa hotel and resort offers a range of special promotions at its renowned restaurants guaranteed to impress even the pickiest of palates.

Participate in a fun-filled family Easter brunch on April 14 with outdoor activities for kids such as a bunny chase and egg hunting. It is priced at BD32 onwards and runs from 12.30-4pm.

The Easter Sunday outdoor barbeque on April 16 at the Saraya terrace will feature a buffet and live cooking stations, grills, a chocolate bar and fountain, along with egg hunts to add to the excitement. It is priced at BD25 or BD55 inclusive of beverages and access to the beach and pool.

Indulge in an authentic, aromatic buffet showcasing seven regions of India at Saraya every Saturday starting from April 8 onwards for BD18 per person. Food lovers can sample an array of traditional specialities and street food.

Italian food connoisseurs can rejoice with this amazing offer. For just BD13, enjoy an antipasti buffet, soup, pizza and scrumptious gelato with Fiamma restaurant’s Fantastic Four promotion every Wednesday.

Go on an Oriental journey with the Dim Sum Trail at Wok every Thursday, where you can 100 April 2017

Easter brunch

enjoy unlimited delicious dim sum with pho bo noodle soup for BD23 inclusive of two selected beverages.

Get into F1 Grand Prix mode and have a girls’ night out at Tapas Bar on April 12, with freeflowing complimentary beverages from 8pm-midnight.

Savour delectable treasures from the sea at La Mer’s Route De La Mer seafood buffet for BD18 inclusive of selected drinks.

The property features 262 luxurious rooms and suites, all boasting balconies with picturesque, panoramic views.

Arabian interior design and a luxurious colour palette combine with elegant, dark hardwoods, creating an inviting contemporary oasis. The hotel is reminiscent of a precious shell beside the cerulean ocean, curving

gently around the white sand bay.

Glide across the polished marble floors of the lobby and feel your eyes being drawn to the alluring potted palms and exquisite Dilmun artworks. Enjoy a taste of the two countries’ dual heritage with a complimentary Arabic coffee or a French macaron from the patisserie.

Amid palms and pristine beaches an indulgent spa awaits. Enjoy speciality cuisine at Fiamma, Tapas, Pashawat, Wok and Saraya or catch up with your dear ones over drinks at Amber.

A stunning ballroom and private island are ideal venues for hosting large corporate events and weddings. No matter what the occasion, Sofitel Bahrain is ever-ready to cater to all your requirements.

Call 17 636-363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Brazilian Carnival

Reem Saleh and Sergio Miranda organised their fourth Brazilian Carnival brunch in Bahrain at Swiss-Belhotel Seef.

Ires, Reem, Sergio & Valeria

Behind: Klara, Naelly, Sandra, Erika, Erika & Luiz Front: Maria Isabel, Marcelo, & Maria

Silvano, Ditta & Paolo

Sandra & Carlinhos

Eleonora, Eugenio & Marise

Valeria & Silvana

Zaid & Naya

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Annamarie, Ana Paula & Sergio

April 2017 101

dining ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

Where Food and Sports Combine This chic sports bar in a four-star property in Juffair will thrill your senses with its great culinary offerings set in a lively atmosphere.

Wembley, at the Atiram Premier Hotel, has gained a reputation for live sporting action paired with an upbeat, traditional pub vibe.

The venue offers a large range of alluring promotions throughout the week, including the recently launched Friday Bubbly Brunch.

For just BD19, you can indulge in an array of international cuisine, including live cooking stations, carvery, salads, pasta, seafood grills, desserts and much more, inclusive of beverages.

The atmosphere throughout the day is enhanced by one of the most exciting live acts on the island, UK trio Old Street Blues, who keep guests entertained with a combination of classic hits, old and new.

Try your luck at karaoke and groove to the tunes of local favourite DJ John till the early hours.

Whether your favourite sport is rugby, football, cricket or something quirky, you can guarantee the best viewing experience at Wembley, which has three large projector screens and multiple flatscreen TVs to capture the ambience as if you were actually there. Chow down on delectable burgers, spicy Buffalo wings and more, whilst enjoying the charged sporting atmosphere. Wembley is open from noon to 2am daily.

Atiram Premier Hotel is a smart choice for travellers, boasting 105 luxurious accommodations with various food and beverage outlets. With its convenient location, the hotel has easy access to the city’s must-see destinations and offers guests unparalleled facilities and services.

Call 33 640-009.

Second Anniversary Cancer Care Group celebrated its second anniversary at the Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam Auditorium in Segaya.

Dr Ali Aradi, Dr Gaghadharan, Dr Waleed Khalifa & Khulood Ebrahim

Said, Fatima & Dr Amy

Shaini, Sophi, Shaini & Anila

102 April 2017

Sithu & Dr Babu Ram

Basheer, Sudheer & Dr Gaghadharan

Sajit

Saim

Rajiv

Said, Siva, Mehru, Florene & Papia

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining

Time Café

RAMEE ROSE HOTEL

Savings Galore The more you spend, the more you save at this four-star hotel with its variety of daily promotions.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Ramee Rose Hotel in Juffair is stepping up its game with innovative promotions at its various food and beverage outlets.

Rauchi is the all-day dining restaurant, but its true identity is unveiled when you sample its contemporary interpretations of time-honoured Southeast Asian recipes. Boasting an Asian-fusion menu that caters to even the most evolved palate, the chefs’ inventive dishes offer an impressive dining experience. Groups of 15 or more get 20 per cent discount on their total food bill. Order two cocktails and get one free from 3pm-6pm. If you can name the fish that is tagged, you can bag yourself a discount at the seafood brunch.

Post a pic on Facebook and tag 20 friends to get a 25 per cent discount.

Surrender your inhibitions and embrace your inner party animal at Club XS for the ultimate party experience.

Partygoers are instantly captivated by the cuttingedge, multi-million-dinar design and top-of-the-line technology. The venue boasts a high energy dance floor with a wall of LED lights complemented by a state-of-the-art sound and light system.

Offering a Vegas-style atmosphere, different promotions are available throughout the week, including the daily ladies’ night from 6pm-11pm. Enjoy long happy hours with a ‘buy one, get one free’ drink offer till 11pm. Take a picture of yourself at the venue and upload to Instagram and Facebook with the hashtag #rameerosehotel to stand a chance to win prizes. US Navy members get a 30 per cent discount on their total bill. A beverage pitcher can also be bought at great value.

Sporty Time Café has an array of cool deals,

including Kick and Kick happy hours, with a ‘buy one get one’ offer from 11am-3pm, a 20 per cent discount on any bottle of beverage from 3pm-7pm, and ‘buy two get one’ on drinks from 7pm to 9pm.

Enjoy half a bottle of grape when ordering any steak daily, while ladies take pleasure in unlimited cocktails from 6pm to midnight every day.

From the captivating allure of its bright modern design, to the attention to detail in the creative menu selections from its live kitchen, the café truly raises the bar on your expectations of a sports lounge experience.

Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a business entertainer or a traveller, the tempting offerings coupled with impeccable service are sure to delight.

Its huge stadium-like space offers enough room for fans to watch their favourite teams on one of the 90-inch LED screens while still allowing diners the intimacy of a cosy restaurant.

The eclectic menu offers a variety of global comfort food, reinvented pub fare and worthy classics, all brought to life through a live kitchen experience by a team of talented chefs.

Kabayanz has become the Filipino community’s favourite nightlife venue, with plenty of entertainment in store. All hotelier staff and cabin crew can enjoy a 30 per cent discount on their bill upon presenting valid identification. Sing your heart out at the karaoke sundowners from 6pm-9pm everyday, with a 30 per cent discount on your total bill. Bottle purchases can be made at a 15 per cent discount.

Call 17 616-167.

April 2017 103

indiandining

Best of Nothing beats a good bowl of tantalising, creamy curry or an aromatic plate of biryani.

One aspect that Bahrain is not lacking in is Indian restaurants. So the next time you get a hankering for curry or tandoori, check out these cultural culinary gems.

Rasoi by Vineet at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain is a renowned fine dining restaurant where traditional dishes get a contemporary facelift by the skilled head chef and his team. A couple of blocks away lies the famous American Alley, with a plethora of eateries, among which Lanterns and Moti Mahal stand as long-time beloveds for delicious Indian eats.

Right around the corner is the funky It’s Mirchi at the Ramee International Hotel, and Mantraa at the Best Western Plus The Olive is also a great spot to relax with good food. For a wholesome meal, Govinda’s will surprise you with the delectable variety of sattvic food on offer.

Change things up a bit and sample zesty and spicy Indian street food from Mumbai Spices located at Al Raya Mall and Bahrain Mall.

Adliya, which hosts the gastronomic apex of the island, houses cult- favourite Copper Chimney, known for its North Indian dishes and friendly service. Lanterns Restaurant and Lounge takes the cake for amazing meat and vegetable delights. The lounge area is a hangout for the chic and trendy.

Up a few streets is Urban Dhaba, which offers a modern take on a traditional, desi roadside 104 April 2017

India joint, with a droolworthy selection of northern Indian fare.

Juffair’s commercial neighbour, the Diplomatic Area, has Spices at the Crowne Plaza, a fine dining venue known to serve great ‘thali’ meal deals.

Desi Spice in Zinj has a wonderful ‘chaat’ counter with street specials like panipuri, papdi chaat and more.

Asha’s at City Centre Bahrain serves beautifully presented food that packs a punch.

The glorious Nirvana, at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, offers a dining experience fit for a king. With a menu that offers a full spectrum of the rich, mystical palate of India, Rasoi at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa claims to have the best biryani in town.

The busy vicinity of central Manama is home to Nattinpuram, a specialty south Indian restaurant popular for serving up a feast on banana leaves. The Dosa Plaza in Hoora serves over 100 unique varieties of the flat rice flour delicacy known as ‘dosa’.

A string of restaurants opposite the police fort area in Manama offers quick and hearty south and north Indian meals on a budget. The no-fuss diners are far removed from the opulent style of other Indian restaurants, serving scintillating vegetarian repast at any time of the day. Some of the popular ones are Vrindavan, Central Café, Takatak, Sangeetha, Meenakshi Bhavan and Sri Gowri Krishna.

Known for its enigmatic decor and Mughlai cuisine, Akbar at the Swiss International Palace Hotel has traditional ghazal (poetic couplets) singers to add to its charm.

Offering cookery from all regions of the Indian subcontinent, Roti Boti at the Al Areen Palace & Spa is gaining eminence for its beautiful decor and unparalleled service. Saraya at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa features an Indian repast every Saturday.

Several multicuisine restaurants such as Nu Asia, Pan Asia, Charcoal Grill, Rice Bowl and Rendezvous, serve up a fine array of Indian food amongst other cuisines. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Harjit & Pooja

Devansh & Harish

Colour Festival

Sphere Advertising and Events held its Balam Pichkari Season Two Colour Festival at the Lost Paradise of Dilmun.

Aapka Paresh, DJ Lemon, DJ Pearlyn & DJ Nirmal

Danish, Ahmed, Anjali & Tariq

Maryam & Gurnam

Jennifer & Reem

Tushar, Nipy & Manpreet

Subin & Rakesh

Experience authentic

IndianFoodandAllitsGlory!

Featuring Live-station Buffets on Weekdays (BD5.9 net) and Weekends Grand Buffet (BD9.9 net).

RUW Corner, Riffa.

Tel:77366333, 77366600 LANTERNSLOUNGE LANTERNSBAHRAIN +973 39933275 LANTERNSBH www.bahrainthismonth.com

April 2017 105

tablehopping

FOOD FESTIVAL

The ongoing food festival, The Yard, is being held at The Courtyard in Seef district and runs until April 8. Organised by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), the event aims to energise the tourism sector in line with various other activities. It is as a diverse platform that provides food lovers an opportunity to try a number of local Bahraini restaurants and enjoy fun-filled activities. The festival will be held on weekdays from 11am to 3pm, and 5pm to 10pm, and on weekends from 5pm to 11pm.

A PERFECT START

Mothers can enjoy a fabulous breakfast buffet with unlimited coffee at Citrus All Day Dining, Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands from Sunday to Thursday. It is the perfect excuse to catch up with your friends after dropping the kids off at school, or for just getting some alone time.

The breakfast is priced at BD4.

Call 16 000-099.

EASTER EGGS-CITEMENT Pamper yourself and your loved ones with a sumptuous Easter brunch at Flavours on 2, at Downtown Rotana, on April 16, starting from BD16++. Be entertained by a mesmerising saxophonist playing your favourite tunes, and indulge in specially crafted beverages and the treats of cooking stations in a stylish setting. An egg painting competition and many fun games await the children, with a special prize for the winner of the best decorated egg.

Call 13 119-999.

106 April 2017

TURKISH FEAST

A scrumptious Turkish Food Festival is set to run at Saffron restaurant, Al Areen Palace & Spa, from April 20 onwards. This weekend event promises its diners a mouthwatering variety of hot and cold mezze, as well as vegetarian fare and juicy meat dishes, courtesy of guest chef Turgut Ay from Turkey. There will be a showcase of different Turkish brands and live entertainment by Mersin Classical Turkish Music Ensemble.

Call 17 845-000.

AY CARAMBA!

Enjoy a Mexican food festival, which runs until April 10, at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain’s vivacious Margarita Mexicana restaurant. Flying in all the way from Mexico is the renowned folklore ballet troupe, Yolitzli Widen de la Laguna, along with a guest chef and lively mariachi singers. This is one fiesta that will let you experience the full spectrum of cultural and culinary aspects of this colourful country.

Call 17 713-000.

When? April 14 Event? Easter and F1 themed brunch Venue? Baharat, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre Indulge in a savoury experience for BD18++ including soft drinks and water, or BD30++ with selected beverages.

E Call 17 171-144.

When? April 15 Event? Easter Brunch Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain Enjoy a fun-filled family outing, priced at BD35 for adults and BD12.750 for kids.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? Saturday-Wednesday Event? Gourmet Getaway Venue? Flames Steak and Seafood restaurant, ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands Savour a four-course meal for BD23++.

E Call 16 000-111.

When? Every Saturday Event? Italian Night Venue? Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj islands Enjoy an authentic Italian buffet with live cooking station and savour delicious dishes made in front of you.

E Call 16 000-099.

When? Sunday-Thursday Event? Hot Pot Night Venue? The Domain Hotel and Spa Enjoy delicious dishes like chanko nabe, sukiyaki and shabu shabu starting from BD8++.

E Call 16 000-000.

When? April 16 Event? Easter Sunday Venue? Al Safir, Sheraton Bahrain The buffet menu will feature Easter specialities with coloured eggs and chocolates for kids, priced at BD14.900.

E Call 17 533-533.

When? Every Tuesday Event? Gulf Night Out Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain The popular poolside event features a variety of cuisines from all the 10 fine dining outlets, starting at BD19 per person.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? Every Wednesday Event? Steak Night Venue? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Enjoy unlimited steaks and salads for BD21.750 per person.

E Call 17 531-122.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

What’s New Beautiful Blossom

Edited by Apple Sharma

Misaki pearls are inspired by the wonderful natural process of a pearl slowly growing and flourishing within a shell to form its ultimate shape. Combining the symbolic beauty and perfection of the gem with innovative and creative designs, the brand creates a new and contemporary jewellery experience.

Available at A La Mode outlets.

The Scent of Spring More for Less LG’s front loading washer’s revolutionary TWIN Wash system gives you the power to rub two loads simultaneously, getting more clothes cleaner in less time. The powerful main washer — available in 21kg capacity — handles the bulk of the laundry, while the LG SideKick can be set to run a different cycle with a smaller load.

Available at leading retailers and at the LG shop in Sehla.

Miu Miu L’Eau Bleue is a scintillating fragrance reminding you that spring has arrived. With a lush scent of fresh flowers, it has delicately balanced notes of lily of the valley, white florals and Akigalawood.

Available at leading retailers.

Bang on Trend Set to be a wardrobe classic, this medium-sized shoulder bag bears Karl Lagerfeld’s signature on the front flap, creating an elegant contrast between the metal and smooth leather. It has two interior compartments and a slot pocket.

Available at City Centre Bahrain.

Femininity and Glamour The Italian lingerie brand, Intimissimi, combines impeccable design with quality and a flawless fit. Its new collection is both seductive and elegant, setting off soft fabrics with clean-cut, geometric lines, lace being a star feature on many of the pieces.

Available at City Centre Bahrain. www.bahrainthismonth.com

April 2017 107

marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

A Dazzling Star

This luxury Italian jeweller celebrates a milestone with a new introduction to one of its all-time favourite collections.

108 April 2017

This year marks the 50th birthday of Pomellato – an occasion to reaffirm and celebrate the unique values of the house which are unconventional, individual and sophisticated.

These values are perfectly condensed in the Nudo collection, which is the quintessential example of the Pomellato ethos: an icon of powerful simplicity and glowing personality. It now brings forth an unremittingly bold and proudly oversized interpretation – Nudo Assoluto.

This new version is maximised for an unforgettable impact: an outburst of colour, shape and volume.

However, it keeps the ironic and technically challenging take on the solitaire of the original; both the ring and the way the stones are cut are copyright-protected.

A ring of oversized proportion, it regains the commanding uniqueness of the solitaire with the unmistakable Pomellato twist. It is a gem so bold and captivating, it attracts attention – to the wearer over the jewel.

Glowing in the surprise of the unusual size and charged with the offbeat shade of colour, it showcases Pomellato’s quest and artisanal challenge for the new precious to the max – big stones, intense

shades and uniqueness.

Three stones for three precious hues have been chosen for the 2017 edition: the deep purple of an amethyst; the sky blue of a topaz; the bright yellow of a lemon quartz. As ever with Pomellato, shape and colour are the result of extensive research into stones and technique. The gems used are of high calibre, which makes them extremely hard to find and even harder to work. The quest for perfect, never-before-seen hue makes the process particularly painstaking, thus extremely new and producing utterly precious pieces. The utmost uniformity of the amethyst used is in fact very rare, while the hints of green in the lemon quartz are highly unexpected in the jewellery world, as is the vivid shade of blue of the topaz. To maximise shine and contrast, all stones are cut by hand.

Nudo Assoluto stands for the freedom to be one of a kind. Bold yet light, it is an absolute of the Pomellato way of being.

Pomellato collections are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers.

Call 17 534-444 or visit www.asiajewellers.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ASIA JEWELLERS

Style and Substance The eternal femininity of this Swiss watchmaker’s Jade collection is celebrated by three stunning ‘Grand Feu’ editions with handcrafted enamel dials.

The exquisite elegance of Jade attains a new level of beauty with the addition of a rare enamelling technique.

Complex and difficult to achieve, the decorative art of ‘Grand Feu’ is seen on only a handful of timepieces from the world’s most prestigious watchmakers.

The gorgeously rich enamel of stunning turquoise meets the swirl of diamonds across the face and on the stainless steel bezel. The stylised indexes are easy to read, revealing Jade’s practical nature. A small date window is surrounded by the sinuous curve of diamonds on the continuous seconds feature, while three diamond drops are part of the crown position indicator.

When it was first introduced in 2013, Jade represented several firsts in haute horlogerie. Its UN-310 calibre was the first movement to be designed and produced in-house by Ulysse Nardin specifically for a woman’s watch. And it was the first timepiece to take into account a lady’s delicate manicure when manipulating the settings. This was achieved by its innovative crown design where no pulling is required to wind the watch, set the time or adjust the date backwards or forwards – only a simple turn. A dainty crown position indicator on the dial shows the wearer which setting she is adjusting.

Two more Jade ‘Grand Feu’ editions, in red ruby and mysterious grey, with matching leather straps, complement the highlighted Jade in turquoise enamel with its white strap. They display all the craftsmanship of the Donzé Cadrans enamel specialists.

While it appears wonderfully decorative, Jade has a deeply practical side, as its crown design attests. Its movement incorporates silicium components for enhanced precision and durability. It boasts antireflective sapphire crystal and case back and a water resistance to 30 metres.

Ulysse Nardin timepieces are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers.

Call 17 534-444 or visit www.asiajewellers.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

April 2017 109

marketplace JOZ SALON & SPA

A Healing Chalice

Cupping therapy is an ancient Chinese form of alternative medicine that advocates claim helps general physical and psychological wellbeing.

110 April 2017

The treatment involves local suction created on the skin using heat (fire) or mechanical devices (hand or electrical pumps). Practitioners believe this mobilises blood flow in order to promote healing.

Through either heat or suction, the skin is gently drawn upwards by creating a vacuum in a cup over the target area. The cup stays in place for five to 15 minutes and is believed by some to help treat pain, deep scar tissue in the muscles and connective tissue, muscle knots and swelling.

Broadly speaking, there are two types of cupping: dry cupping and bleeding or wet cupping (controlled bleeding) with the latter being more common. The British Cupping Society (BCS), an organisation promoting the practice, teaches both. As a general rule, wet cupping provides a more curative-treatment approach to patient management, whereas dry appeals more to a therapeutic and relaxation approach.

Preference varies with practitioners and cultures.

The procedure commonly involves creating a small area of low air pressure next to the skin, using a variety of tools and methods.

The cups can be various shapes, including balls or bells, and may range in size from one to three inches across the opening. Plastic and glass are the most common materials used today, replacing the horn, pottery, bronze and bamboo cups used in earlier times.

The low air pressure required may be created by heating the cup or the air inside it with an open flame or a bath in hot scented oils, then placing it against the skin. As the air inside the cup cools, it contracts and draws the skin slightly inside. More recently, a vacuum can be created with a mechanical suction pump acting through a valve located at the top of the cup.

Also, rubber cups are available that squeeze the air out and adapt to uneven or bony surfaces.

In practice, cups are normally used only on softer tissue that can form a good seal with the edge, and they can be used singly or in groups to cover a larger area. They may also be placed over an acupuncture needle and skin may be lubricated allowing the cup to move slowly.

Cupping is claimed to treat a broad range of medical conditions such as blood disorders (anaemia, haemophilia), rheumatic diseases (arthritic joint and muscular conditions), fertility and gynaecological disorders, and skin problems (eczema, acne).

Depending on the specific procedure, skin marking is common after the cups are removed. This may be a simple red ring that disappears quickly. The discolouration left by the cups is normally from bruising, especially if they are dragged while suctioned to break down muscle fibre. Usually treatments are not painful.

Joz Salon & Spa offers all the new techniques and recommends weekly cupping for both acute (or subacute) and chronic lower back pain.

Call 17 369-133, 16 031-120, 16 031-126 or 17 756-449. www.bahrainthismonth.com

DENTA DERMA RIM BOGARI CENTER

The Future of Dentistry

whitening and surgery.

In gum depigmentation the overall appearance of the smile is improved by lightening the colour of darkened gums, without The use of laser in everyday practice, at Denta bleeding and pain.

Derma Rim Bogari Center, yields excellent Gingivectomy is a 20-minute procedure to trim results in the treatment of many problems, away excessive gum which may cause the especially those affecting soft oral tissue. It appearance of small teeth. Others may have a causes minimal pain and guarantees longlasting results. It’s also proving extremely useful swollen gums which can be laser-contoured to suit the smile line. for cosmetic work. Compared to traditional Frenulectomy involves the removal of the methods, dental and cosmetic laser technology frenulum (the fold of skin above the two front has numerous advantages: teeth) which is used for patients who have a • Non-invasive, painless operations gap between these teeth and are willing to • Faster and more effective treatment have orthodontic treatment.

• Less anaesthetic required Some patients may have infected gums. Along • Haemostatic (blood clotting) and with oral hygiene and other treatments, laser bactericidal effect • Minimal bleeding means a clear operating field could help to kill a range of bacteria to maintain Our Center healthy pink gums. It is also widely used, along • Clean cutting conserves healthy tissue The first boutique dental and dermal center Bahrain. with in gel, to achieve tooth whitening.

• No turbine vibrations and noise Our Center Theofpractice • OverallOur fastercompetitive healing! edge lies in the state the artlives by the phrase ‘Your Beauty Yourdermal Brand’.

Fields where laser can be used include The boutique dental and center in Bahrain. technology offirst digital medicine combined with our cosmetic dentistry, periodontics (lightening of Our team pride to our Our competitive edgethemselves lies Call in 17 the state of the art darkenedartistic gums),influence. implants, endodontics, teeth 300-114.

This popular practice makes use of the latest technology and techniques.

Dr Rim Bogari

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Our Team Dr. Rim Bogari Managing Director Cosmetic & General Dentistry

England and Lebanon.

Our Team

Dr. Raniah Bogari

Dr. Shadi Samawi

Dr. Rodolphe Politis

Aesthetic Dermatology & Laser Medicine

Consultant Orthodontist & Master’s Degree

Specialist Periodontist & Implantologist

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Consultant Orthodontist & Specialist Specialist Periodontist & Aesthetic Dermatology & Managing Director l Prosthodontics Orthodontics Consultant Orthodontist & Periodontist & Aesthetic Dermatology & Managing Director

Dr.Dentistry Raniah Bogari Dr. Rim Bogari l Restorative Dr. Rim Bogari

Cosmetic & General Dentistry

Laser Dentistry Medicine Cosmetic & General

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l

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l

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l

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Dr. Shadi Samawi

Dr. Raniah Bogari

Master’s Laser Medicine

Dr. Shadi Samawi

Degree Master’s Degree

Dr. Rodolphe Politis

Dr. Rodolphe Politis

Implantologist Implantologist

Our Services

Our Services Our Dentistry Services Peridontology l Orthodontics Temporomandibular Cosmetic DentalJoint Implants

l l Laser l Peridontology Cosmetic Dentistry l Restorative Dentistry l Endodontics l Restorative Dentistry l Prosthodontics l Surgery Endodontics l Aesthetic Dermatology l Cosmetic Dentistry l Orthodontics l Restorative Dentistry l General Dentistry l Temporomandibular Prosthodontics Joint l lAesthetic Dermatology l

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l Orthodontics l Prosthodontics l Dental Implants l Surgery Flat 81, Bldg 1025, Road 3621 Block 436, Al Raya BuildingSeef District, Kingdom of Bahrain l Laser l General Dentistry Tel.: +973 17 300 114, Fax: +973 17 300 115, Email: info@rimbogari.com l Dental Implants l Surgery Website: www.rimbogari.com, www.dentaderma.com l Peridontology l Temporomandibular Joint l Laser l General Dentistry @drrimbogari l Endodontics l Aesthetic Dermatology l Peridontology l Temporomandibular Joint l

Endodontics

www.bahrainthismonth.com

l

Flat 81, Bldg 1025, Road 3621 Block 436, Al Raya BuildingSeef District, Kingdom of Bahrain Aesthetic Dermatology Tel.: +973 17 300 114, Fax: +973 17 300 115, Email: info@rimbogari.com Website: www.rimbogari.com, www.dentaderma.com @drrimbogari

April 2017 111

marketplace RAMADA MANAMA CITY CENTRE

Experience a Great Stay Take advantage of some great deals as this four-star property celebrates the completion of its first successful year in operation.

Ramada Manama City Centre recently celebrated its first anniversary, a year in which it has become a great success.

“We take pride in providing a sophisticated hospitality experience to global business and leisure travellers, standing as one of the top hotel choices in the Kingdom,” says general manager Urs George Platz.

“Over the year, Ramada Manama City Centre has been fortunate to welcome dignitaries, various key people, popular music artists and more.

With its refined accommodation and attentive service, the hotel has received numerous industry honours and recognition from major travel portals and was ranked among the top hotels on travel websites.”

Situated in the heart of the Seef District, the property is conveniently located near to one of the best island’s shopping and entertainment venues, City Centre Bahrain.

Designed with a mixture of contemporary and classical architectural styles, the hotel accommodates 140 guest rooms and suites, as well as a range of great dining options. Reem Al Bawadi, a family-friendly Lebanese-themed restaurant and café, is renowned for its authentic Middle Eastern fare, humble hospitality and shisha. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to taste genuine flavours. The terrace provides an unbeatable experience – perfect for enjoying a delicious meal or special

Urs George Platz

occasions with friends and family.

Apart from local favourites, guests can also opt for international allday dining.

Equipped with world-class facilities, the hotel can cater to high-level meetings and upscale private events.

As part of the celebration, Ramada Manama City Centre is offering various bespoke ‘Anniversary Packages’, available until the end of the month.

Call 17 104-000, email info@ramadamanama-citycentre.com or follow ramadamanamcitycentre on Instagram and Facebook.

Italian Night Dinner Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands held an Italian night dinner for members of the media.

Manu, Jameel & Gaurav

Karting 4 Schools

Management and staff of Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands

Middle East Championships organised a Karting 4 Schools activity day at the Bahrain International Circuit Karting Track.

Will & Nathanio

Talal, Alexander & Hussain

112 April 2017

Dennis & Nezar

Yves & Hamad

Ziyad, Yousif & Aysha

Bader & Matter

Abdulla & Hamad

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Be Your Best Self

In this fast-paced life, it may seem difficult to shed the excess weight and flaunt a fit figure. This hospital has a viable option to keep the pounds off and enjoy optimum health.

Obesity is a serious health condition which has already affected 600 million people worldwide. In Bahrain, 33 per cent of adults over 20 years of age are overweight; 36 per cent of whom are deemed obese.

Dr Stephen Angamuthu, consultant general surgeon at Royal Bahrain Hospital and metabolic and bariatric surgeon certified by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), USA, throws light on this alarming problem.

“Obesity leads to a number of chronic health conditions, called co-morbidities, such as cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, type-II diabetes, pulmonary dysfunction, osteoarthritis, gallbladder disease, cancer [breast and colon] and others,” he says.

To many, a healthy lifestyle is a struggle to maintain. This is when bariatric surgery is an ideal option as a permanent solution to obesity.

The risks that arise from being obese are greater than that of undergoing a surgery. “Bariatric surgery will prevent obesity-related diseases,

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dr Stephen Angamuthu

resulting in an extended lifespan, increased energy and self-esteem and, of course, weight loss. The average weight loss expected over three years is 62 per cent of the excess weight,” explains Dr Stephen.

Royal Bahrain Hospital uses modern, minimally invasive techniques, which are safe and allow quick recovery and minimal pain, to perform bariatric surgery.

The hospital has also been recognised as a Centre of Excellence for Weight Loss and Metabolic Surgery by the SRC. To achieve your health goals and assess your candidature for bariatric surgery, schedule an appointment with an experienced surgeon today.

Call 17 246-800 or visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com.

April 2017 113

marketplace SYMMETRIA

Get Super-Star Skin Dr Olga Shvab gives us the low-down on a well-kept celebrity beauty secret, which she calls a magic filler that could change your whole face.

Dr Olga Shvab

“Forever young, I want to be forever young...” goes the song by Alphaville.

Curious about how celebrities prep their skin for the red carpet? For a beautiful, cameraready complexion, many stars begin prepping with non- and minimally invasive skin rejuvenation services in the weeks, and even months, prior to awards season.

The procedures your favourite stars use are becoming less mysterious and a lot more accessible and affordable. One of the most popular and effective treatments is Radiesse.

Celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston and Paris Hilton swear by its benefits. As a simple procedure, with little to no recovery time and fantastic but subtle results, it is easy to see why this unique dermal filler has remained one of the most popular anti-ageing treatments in Hollywood and beyond.

Radiesse is a filler that is made of calciumbased microspheres suspended in a waterbased gel. It has been around for more than 10 years since the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved it in 2006. Placed under the skin, the product provides instant natural-looking volumising, and smoothing of wrinkles, with results lasting up to 12 months.

“I have been using Radiesse since 2010 and it is very useful in contouring faces – nose bridge, chin, cheeks and jawlines,” says Dr Olga. “It is also incredibly effective at reversing visible signs of ageing in the hands. I see around 150 people for Radiesse treatments every month. For many of my patients this filler procedure is very much needed, giving a refreshed face without bruising and signs of invasion – an instant volumising effect and long-term improvement of skin quality.”

The filler boosts collagen production so, even after the gel is absorbed, your body will continue growing collagen with long-term results. For most patients, it’s a wonderful and almost unbelievable experience – more youthful, glowing and beautiful skin, day after day!

Call 17 830-730.

114 April 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

PANDORA

All that Glitters This jewellery brand celebrates women all over the world and inspires them to make a unique style statement.

Founded in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1982 by Per and Winnie Enevoldsen, Pandora has made an exceptional journey from a local Danish jeweller’s shop to one of the largest and most loved global jewellery brands.

Working with 14k gold, sterling silver, gemstones, cultured pearls, Murano glass and enamel, Pandora’s expert craftspeople draw out the beauty of these high-quality metals and materials, resulting in the exquisite pieces the brand is renowned for. Love, care and attention to detail are bestowed upon each hand-finished piece from start to finish, bringing to life the company’s Danish design legacy of a contemporary aesthetic fused with traditional artistry. The hand-finished collection invites women to choose from a vast array of feminine rings, earrings, necklaces and charms to create their personal style.

The brand’s trademark charm bracelet concept is a favourite among ladies across the continents, enabling them to symbolise and express unique moments, all while reflecting their distinctive style with a multitude of exquisite materials, colours, settings, details and finishes.

Positioned as an affordable, luxury label of fine jewellery, the brand merges contemporary design with high-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship using a combination of modern and traditional techniques. Every Pandora gemstone, stone and pearl is meticulously examined before use, and each piece is carefully checked before reaching the shop floors.

Florals are at the forefront in Pandora’s spring 2017 collection. Channel the positive energy of the season when you step out in flowerpatterned trinkets in bright hues or pearlescent pastels. Stack, twist, mix, or simply style them solo. However you choose to wear them, you’ll be displaying your very own stamp.

Key pieces play with the daisy’s classic appeal, enabling it to flourish in new ways. The flower’s eclectic arrangements in nature, their contrast with the world around them and their pure expressions provide the inspiration behind the line. Sterling silver lends a timelessly www.bahrainthismonth.com

modern look and durability; its cool white sheen working as an instant illuminator, particularly when paired with clear cubic zirconia, as in the Dazzling Daisy Clusters earring climbers and the Dazzling Daisies ring.

Metal is used to secure the beautiful stone settings, which are so integral to each of Pandora’s designs. This ensures an exclusive and enduring product. The brand’s attention to detail is evident in the mixes of materials on

individual pieces, resulting in jewellery that has reached new levels of perfection – ready for women to embrace, enjoy and edit their way.

To celebrate being feminine yet resilient, gift yourself, or a lovely lady, something from Pandora’s on-trend, interchangeable collections to impress style on a unique theme, occasion or memory.

Call 37 405-400.

April 2017 115

marketplace

ALOSRA

Click for Convenience This retailer allows you to use your time more efficiently with its user-friendly online portal.

116 April 2017

Stuck in traffic with an important appointment to get to and an ever-growing to-do list on your mind? It is a feeling difficult to escape in the modern day. But luckily for islanders, Alosra comes to the rescue, with the re-launched alosraonline.com – where you can easily order all your household rations at the click of a button, giving you some precious extra time to spend however you want to.

Alosra is a local supermarket that was established in 1987, with its first store located in the Central Market in Manama. Today, the company operates seven branches in Bahrain and one in Saudi Arabia, with another store opening soon at Al Safa Centre in Jeddah. The supermarket aims to offer its customers a feel-good shopping experience, with a unique mix of local and international premium brands and quality foods.

The butchery section at Alosra has a wide variety of meats to select from and the bakery has a plethora of oven-fresh goodies available to go. Both these departments are manned by trained and certified specialists. Also available is an extensive range of imported and local fresh produce, including an organic range, alongside a great variety of grocery and non-grocery items, the fish counter and a deli counter offering premium imported cheese. Alosra spares no effort to ensure that every single item on its shelves is as fresh as possible and meets the highest standards of quality. Now, through alosraoline.com,

customers can shop for and enjoy these services and products from the comfort of their own homes.

The website is designed to let you save your shopping items, search for more than one item at once and experiment with delicious recipes. With more listings of the top items in every category, it is easier than ever to find what you are looking for. The days of losing your frayed shopping list are gone.

Alosraonline.com lets you save your list and reorder it at the click of a button. When you shop online, you also receive the supermarket’s privilege card benefits.

Just pay your online bill with your credit card, and wait for one of the store’s delivery superstars to ring the doorbell with your order. Cash payments are also accepted upon delivery. Because Alosra is committed to offering a worry-free shopping experience, deliveries are ongoing seven days a week, including on holidays. You could also enjoy same-day delivery if the order is made before noon.

What’s more, shoppers will also find healthy food inspirations and exclusive recipes packed with flavour from renowned culinary experts like chef Susy, at alosraonline.com. It’s perfect for beginners who want to start whipping up magic in the kitchen, or experienced cooks looking for a twist on traditional recipes.

Explore the virtual aisles of alosraonline.com today.

Happy shopping!

Call 17 739-290. www.bahrainthismonth.com

MIDDLE EAST HOSPITAL

Trusted Medical Care To tackle various health and lifestyle-related maladies may seem like an arduous and daunting task, but not when help is at hand from this trustworthy medical centre.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Internal medicine is a speciality dealing with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of adult diseases.

People often wonder what the difference is between a doctor of internal medicine, or an internist, and a general practitioner. All doctors are, in essence, primary care physicians, but an internist is mainly trained in and treats various medical sub-specialties specifically in adults.

At the Middle East Hospital (MEH), internists specialise in the diagnosis and management of diabetes and its complications; lipid, obesity and thyroid disorders; hypertension; kidney ailments, infectious and chest-related diseases; gastrointestinal complaints and neurological illnesses. The internal medicine department provides inpatient and outpatient services and, most importantly, 24-hour emergency services as well.

Also, the hospital tackles concerns associated with diabetic foot and a specialist dietician is available to help sufferers control and correct weight problems.

An expert team is in place to give special care to the elderly battling geriatric problems. MEH’s state-ofthe-art radiology facilities, such as CT scanning, ultrasound and open MRI, can accurately diagnose health problems of patients to quickly put them on the road to recovery.

There is a sizeable surgical department for those who require surgeries in either elective or emergency situations. An expert team of general and laparoscopic surgeons provide consultations and perform general, minimally invasive or ‘keyhole’

procedures. This department takes pride in offering the latest, cutting-edge surgical care to all patients.

This unit of the hospital also sees to the early detection and operative treatment of disorders in the breast, thyroid and parathyroid glands. Surgeries are carried out to alleviate gastrointestinal and colonic diseases as well as the removal of the gall bladder and appendix, diabetic foot care and wound management, treatment of haemorrhoids with the most advanced painless techniques, anal fissures, fistulae and pilonidal sinus, and to remedy all types of hernia.

The presence of a dedicated intensive care unit makes it easier to handle complicated procedures that require post-operative treatment with high-tech equipment and trained staff.

This healthcare facility, which is a joint venture between VKL Holding and Al Namal Group of Companies, is conveniently located in Segaya and has 85 beds. The staff is governed at all times by the guiding principles of providing quality care at affordable costs to patients and their families in a professional manner with dignity, compassion and commitment in an ethical and safe environment.

Offering services across all medical disciplines, MEH is backed by advanced technology and equipment to serve the community efficiently and effectively.

The centre is easily accessible to patients and has ample parking space.

Call 17 362-233.

April 2017 117

marketplace

FRASER SUITES SEEF BAHRAIN

Unbeatable Luxury Offers Book a stay at this property and experience gold-standard service and facilities coupled with the convenience of apartment living.

118 April 2017

Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain is an elegantly designed, all-suite property which offers a range of comforts and the excellent facilities you would expect from a five-star hotel. With touches of indulgence and sophistication it is the ideal choice for long-stay visitors as well as those travelling with families, who may need extra space, and those seeking the additional privacy of residential accommodation.

Just a short drive from Bahrain International Airport, the property enjoys direct access to Seef Mall, one of the island’s premier shopping destinations, with its plethora of retail, dining and entertainment outlets. It is also close to the financial harbour, the souq, the commercial and business districts and many tourist attractions such as Bahrain Fort and the exhibition centre.

With its fully-furnished accommodation, Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain caters to both business and leisure travellers and a range of offers, both yearround and specifically targeted, ensure guests always get great value.

Revel in racing fever with the exciting Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix this month and enjoy a specially designed package, which includes exclusive discounts on the facilities and free transportation to and from Bahrain International Circuit, valid from April 13 to 17.

The ‘Kids in the City’ deal, which runs from April 27 to June 30, is the perfect way for youngsters and parents to make the most of their free time and enjoy access to the pool, play facilities and more.

For those planning a slightly longer break, of three

nights or more, the ‘Stay More, Save More’ offer promises exeptional discounts and those staying more than four nights will receive even greater savings. If you want to make the property your home away from home, the ‘Long Stay Promotion’ is an unbeatable package tailor-made for guests staying 14 nights or longer.

Plan ahead and book at least 10 days in advance to take advantage of the ‘Advance Purchase’ deal to lock in the very best rates available and add in the ‘Sweet Dreams and Breakfast’ package, to ensure a tasty start to the day with a sumptuous buffet breakfast at The Gallery restaurant.

You can enhance these already substantial benefits by becoming a Fraser World member; an exclusive guest recognition programme specially designed to complement your travel and lifestyle choices with a host of exclusive privileges as a gesture of appreciation for your loyalty and support. Membership is complimentary and applies to all properties worldwide offering a range of savings such as an added 20 per cent discount on accommodation and in-house food and beverage items, early check-in and late check-out and complimentary airport transfers.

Members are encouraged to check for the latest deals at their destination of choice.

Book directly with Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain to guarantee the lowest possible price and receive a fruit basket on arrival and points when you enroll for the loyalty programme.

Call 17 171-626 or visit bahrain.frasershospitality.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

CASA CUCINA

Your Home, Your Style

This homewares store gives you access to designer ideas and inspiration.

Casa Cucina opens up a world of new possibilities to all décor enthusiasts, delivering stylish home and kitchen collections that are unique and elegantly designed to perfection. Its product range will truly enhance your living space.

The store’s unique, artistic gift articles from Germany bear distinctive craftsmanship and style, a personal idea for loved ones that will certainly capture the heart.

Traditional print designs that remain timeless adorn classic dinnerware, glassware and accessories from Europe. At Casa Cucina you will also find renowned brands in decorative English styles, which are ideal for collectors.

Items of cookware and kitchenware with superior durability from Europe are also available offering gems of ideas and designer creations to liven up your kitchen.

Create a remarkable impression in your living areas with new items and fresh trends from RAYMOND

Casa Cucina’s extensive portfolio. Build your home and kitchen with a personal touch of modern lifestyle.

Visit the showroom at Seef District, opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard.

Call 17 840-707/17 296-363.

Clothes That Say Summer This classic menswear brand has a fresh collection for the season of new beginnings.

The spring-summer 17 collection from Raymond brings forth visions of flowers in full bloom and birds singing new tunes. Fresh colours and textures inspire you, while new ideas for the future consume you. The colour of the sky meets the patterns of the earth, giving a refreshing twist to the traditional blue, which is almost ethereal.

The exquisite spring-summer collection of suiting and jacketing fabrics from Raymond is now in store at Seef District.

Raymond has always striven to provide customers with worldclass products for the discerning gentleman. Kumar’s WLL represents Raymond with two showrooms at Exhibition Road and Al Hadrami Road, Manama.

The third grand showroom is now open in Seef, offering premium suiting fabrics along with a made-to-measure concept.

Visit the store at Seef District, opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard.

Call 17 840-506 / 17 296-363.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

April 2017 119

marketplace FARHAT INTERNATIONAL TOURS & TRAVEL WLL

A Sparkling Celebration Book with travel agency to celebrate life’s most precious, starry-eyed moments at Disneyland Paris as it kicks off its silver jubilee festivities.

Marking its 25th anniversary, Disneyland Paris is igniting a sparkling celebration showcasing all its years of glory in the making. The fete will transform the theme park with a glittering new dimension with new stories, where stars light up the skies in a dazzling galaxy not so far away.

Farhat International Tours & Travel WLL is the appointed agent in Bahrain for Disneyland Paris, Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney World Orlando.

To celebrate this special event, Mickey and his friends are looking further ahead and becoming explorers of the future in an extraordinary, brand-new parade. Their mission is simple – to dazzle guests. Speaking of exploration, the galaxy far, far away is finally within reach with two new special Star Wars rides - the Star Tours: The Adventures Continue and Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain: Rebel Mission. Both aim to provide a thoroughly immersive experience.

The festivities continue with two new daytime shows, which take place near Sleeping Beauty’s castle. As a stunning night-time finale, the park has also introduced the all-new Disney Illuminations, featuring state-ofthe-art technology.

Book a free personal consultation with a Farhat tour specialist to start planning an amazing holiday experience.

Call 17 216-411 or emaildisney@farhat-tours.com.

Bookers Party Downtown Rotana hosted a masquerade-themed bookers party at Teatro.

Fareed, Patrice, Nasser, Rabih, Youssouf & Mohammadi

Pia & Joan

Marianne, Sharon & Ahmed

120 April 2017

Eunice, Patrice, Mon, Joe, Monika & Serg

Patrice, Khaled, Reem & Manilyn

Abdulaziz & Sami

Gopika & Kanika

Haydee & Imelda

www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

Girl Power

This five-star hotel has opted to join an initiative that works towards empowering women in their workplace while setting an example in its own establishment.

In order to encourage diversity, individuality and gender equality, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, under the umbrella of the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, is actively involved in a programme called ‘Balanced Leadership’.

It embraces changing the gender balance within the company by ensuring the promotion and retention of woman leaders by creating the right environment for them to grow.

The campaign is making the right kind of impact throughout the GCC, where many deeply entrenched customs that have prevented women from career progression are gradually being overturned.

The initiative tackles barriers that get in the way of realising the full potential of females in the workforce, such as inappropriate mentoring and methods of work evaluation in the workplace.

“Culture dictates norms which are often perceived as a hindrance to personal development. In addition, hospitality is not an industry many young adults consider specialising in,” says marketing manager Maryam Almaskati.

“They take up courses in banking and finance, engineering or information technology. I initially took up interior design, but later

Karin Hengstler and Maryam Almaskati

ventured into marketing and communications for the hotel.

“I discovered that this industry fuelled my passion and gave me the opportunity to gain experience and demonstrate my knowledge. I am proud to be part of this company where culture doesn’t dictate boundaries.”

Karin Hengstler, the hotel’s revenue manager adds: “Equality in the workplace is paramount. My job isn’t just achieving my target of financial numbers but also developing the skills of my team, to enhance and encourage their overall contribution towards the business goals.”

The Diplomat Radisson Blu has fostered a culture that encourages employees to innovate, share ideas, take risks, lead and make a difference.

Shazan & Rizwan

Roshan, Noor & Bob

Santheesh, Prinson & Arun

Hameed, Sohar & Fareed

Family Day Out

The Rotary Club of Adliya hosted a cricket tournament family day out at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club.

The van Zyls

Alex & Uday

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fareed, Larry, Sohar, Hameed, Julian & Chris

The Groblers

April 2017 121

marketplace business bites

Airline Lands Certifications

Gulf Air has been awarded seven information technology ISO certifications by Bureau Veritas.

The seven management areas are quality, environmental, service, business continuity, information security, energy and asset management.

The certifications acknowledge the implementation of international standards and best practices as the airline strives to continuously improve the quality of information technology services as well as impact on the environment.

Gulf Air CEO Maher Salman Al Musallam says: “I’m pleased to see the airline’s IT team build upon their ISO certifications year after year. We strive to provide safe and reliable air transportation with superior access to the region, delivered with contemporary Arabian hospitality. We do so by delivering superior quality, service and security across the organisation – including our IT offering.”

Contract Awarded Tashyeed Properties, a division of Mannai Holding SPC, awarded a contract for the implementation of networking and Wi-Fi solutions for its flagship project – Sukoon Tower – to Kanoo IT. The multi-use Sukoon Tower will include 321 residential apartments and 354-room five-star hotel – DoubleTree Suites – operated by Hilton Hotels & Resorts. Kanoo IT has partnered with Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company, to implement enterprise networking and wireless solutions for this project.

“We are happy to partner with Kanoo IT and Aruba in our latest endeavour to create an outstanding property with world-class facilities and services in Bahrain,” says Salim Ahmed Mannai, chairman and founder of Mannai Holding SPC. Ebrahim K. Kanoo director Waleed Kanoo says the success of the company’s diversified businesses is the result of its values, which place customers above all else. “The awarding of this valuable contract, which is a key moment in the history of Kanoo IT, is the result of the long-held mutual trust and respect between Mannai Properties and our company,” he explains.

122 April 2017

Davis Cup Sponsorship 2017 Bahrain Tennis Federation announced that The K Hotel has become a local sponsor of the Davis Cup. Fuad Al Rowaie, secretary general of Bahrain Tennis Federation, and Hussain Al Samahiji, executive assistant manager of The K Hotel, signed an official agreement.

Mr Al Samahiji says: “We are happy to combine our energies with one of the top international sporting competitions in Bahrain.

The Davis Cup continues to set new standards in sport and this is the direction The K Hotel wants to head in, always working at the highest level of competition.”

Insurance Talks Launched The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) Centre for Insurance has launched a monthly series of public informational workshops, called ‘Insurance Talks’. The series of free events are centred on the insurance industry and aim to cover different aspects within the sector.

The goal of Insurance Talks is to provide a ‘Thought Leadership Platform’ for insurance practitioners and to increase public awareness about the insurance industry.

Two masterclasses have already been conducted successfully over the past two months.

BIBF’s head of insurance, Manal Mashkoor, says: “We are pleased to announce the Insurance Masterclass series to the market through which we aim to present to the public informative insights related to the insurance industry. These highly interactive, intensive and informative events offer insurance and non-insurance practitioners the opportunity to widen their horizons about the industry.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander Other Events

Jawad Business Group held a cooking class demo with chef Alexandra and special guests from The Golden Tulip Hotel.

Entertainment+ and Olivier Award-winning producer Paul Taylor-Mills from London presented the Twelfth Night classic comedy live on stage at the Cultural Hall.

Al Murooj Hotel Bahrain launched its new club lounge, LIV, at its premises in Juffair.

YK Almoayyed & Sons launched the new Nissan Kicks at its showroom in Sitra.

Asia de Cuba held an exclusive Ceviche Masterclass conducted by chef Luis.

Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands held its first anniversary cake-cutting ceremony at its premises.

Intimissimi held a masquerade-themed grand opening at City Centre Bahrain.

House of Travel kick-started its campaign ‘Celebrate Life’, to commemorate its 25 years of excellence with a trip for children under the Royal Charity Organisation.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

JJ’s Irish Restaurant celebrated St Patrick’s Day at its premises.

April 2017 123

bystander Other Events

The Gulf Hotels Group held its annual general meeting at The Gulf Hotel.

Bahrain Family Leisure Company BSC held its annual general meeting at The Gulf Hotel.

Fakhro Restaurants Company, franchisee of McDonald’s in Bahrain, sponsored a scholarship seat for AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation.

Almoayyed Commercial Services received two key recognitions from Konica Minolta. One for best service team of the year 2016 and the other for best OPS solutions award 2017 runner up of both categories at Middle East level.

The British School of Bahrain held an Arabic Week at its campus.

The Bahrain Yacht Club celebrated its 55th anniversary at its premises.

A delegation from Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority took part in ‘Seatrade Cruise Global’ in Florida, USA.

First Motors hosted a global integrated forum training workshop for its employees at its showroom in Sitra.

124 April 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from A La Mode.

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions.

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1

10

3/29/17

2:02 PM

Bahrain This Month received 98 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

Which two female icons will be covered in a tribute at JJ’s this month? ______________________________________________

Winner : Maria Cristina Fernandes Second Place : Rachel Rodrigues Third Place : Flora Mae Quinto

What does BUMM stand for? ______________________________________________ Which two acts will appear on Meisei rooftop over F1 weekend? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

Ad Seek:

Which local favourite will be at Azure Loung alongside DJ Jez Pereira? ______________________________________________

2. 80s Revisted

3. Jean-Paul Dantil

2. Casa Cucina

1. Bryan Adams

1. Awal Gulf/Pearl

4. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa 5. Bahrain Bay and Block 338

Which Welsh singer will perform as part of the Spring of Culture Festival? ______________________________________________

3. IDdesign

4. The Foundry

6. Jet Funny Car Show

7. The Bahrain Rugby Football Club 8. March 11

Where is Gulf Property Show 2017 taking place? ______________________________________________

9. 5 Series 10. BD120

What is the name of the troupe coming down for the Mexican food festival at Margarita Mexicana? ______________________________________________

Name:

Name the celebrity chef coming to the Four Seasons during the F1 weekend. ______________________________________________

Address:

What is the name of the food festival being held at The Courtyard? ______________________________________________

Email:

Telephone:

CPR:

Al Haddad Motors held a corporate handover ceremony for City Limo, delivering how many new V-Class vehicles?

Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

AD Seek

Florence

This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of Bahrain This Month. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

Admissions Open For 2017/ 2018

British Degrees at

Applied Science University in Partnership with London 1. Bank University South

nal A.pdf

winwin

2.

12 pm to 11 pm aste & unique quality, your Seef mall: 17581152 here you will find an array of Galleria mall: 17100066 an dishes ranging www.bahrainthismonth.com from grills to Yas.isfahani rst Persian Tapas. All of which are B. Eng. (Hons) Architectural Yas-e isfahani o enjoy.

Design Engineering www.isfahanigroup.com

College of Engineering

3.

4.

April 2017 125

tarotscope

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

Financial good fortune is definitely yours this month as you reap the rewards of past efforts and look forward to the chance for some serious planning and investment. There is no doubting that you have a great deal to be happy about (there’s nothing like the feeling of some serious cash in your wallet) and now that your bank balance is looking a whole lot healthier, you will be better able to put a lot of your dreams and ambitions into practice. First and foremost is a holiday and April will see you celebrating in considerable style when you travel to what will be a ‘first time’ location.

All in all, the signs are good and the future never looked brighter, so make the most of it.

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

TAURUS Apr 21 – May 20 Two pieces of good news are set to send you on your way with a great deal of confidence this April, and their arrival will offer you the opportunity to move into much more productive circles towards the latter part of this year. Firstly, financial gains achieved earlier in the year will see you consolidating your funds and moving premises before the end of the month. Also, you will have the chance to switch career paths and move into a field that is certainly more challenging and rewarding – although this second endeavour may require a few sacrifices that you might not be completely comfortable about making. However, unless you are courageous about your goals, you might not ever reach them.

Card of the Month — The Sun GEMINI May 21 – June 20

A family visit could leave a sour taste to things this month as you find out a secret concerning a close relative that will leave you anxious about both their current state of health and their future in general. The problem is that your discovery will be happened upon by accident after being somewhere you shouldn’t have been and, unless you want to reveal the indiscretion of your own actions, it could be difficult to bring things out into the open with the person or persons this all relates to. It’s going to leave you with a few dilemmas to filter through and at least one difficult decision to make. Ultimately it’s going to come down to how honest and courageous you really want to be.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Pentacles 126 April 2017

CANCER June 21 – July 20 How long do you think you can continue with the course of action you have undertaken regarding a relationship before the truth finally gets out? Knowing the way your sign generally reacts when it comes to romance, not for very long I would guess, which is why you have to come clean with everyone concerned and allow some honesty back into your life. For quite a long time now you have been conducting a clandestine affair, running in shadows and trying to keep secrets from friends and family. However, throughout the whole episode, you and your partner have not made any progress towards a permanent future. Regrettably you are unlikely to ever do so unless you bring the subject out into the open once and for all.

Card of the Month — The Six of Pentacles LEO July 21 – August 21

The time of living in yesterday is now long gone and this April you need to pick yourself up and throw off the shackles of a past relationship so that you can move forward with some purpose in your life. It seems like a long time since you last enjoyed yourself and a lot of that is down to the ghosts of a lost love still haunting your feelings. It’s not been easy but unless you find the strength and resilience to combat this issue you could find yourself trapped in some terrible self-imposed limbo for some time to come. There is so much opportunity and promise just around the corner waiting to be discovered: don’t let it all pass you by. Life is too precious and special for that and so are you.

Card of the Month — The Two of Cups

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

April is set to be a very positive month for many Virgos and there is the chance of exciting discoveries and plenty of outdoor experiences as you embark upon something of an adventure holiday. Any initial feelings of being out of your depth will soon be swept away as you embrace the adventure with vigour and come out of the break feeling confident, reinvigorated and ready to tackle whatever the last few months of 2016 threw at you. When May arrives you will find yourself looking at the world through very different eyes and your outlook may have an alternative slant, which will leave you realising just what you have been missing for some time.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Swords

LIBRA September 22 – October 21

You haven’t always been known for your powers of diplomacy and many times in the past you’ve found yourself at odds with certain people simply because you have failed to employ thought before offering your opinion. Just because some people can’t see the mistakes they are making, it doesn’t mean you have the right to highlight them openly. Not everyone can be in complete control of their lives and there are many individuals out there who don’t want to be.

That doesn’t give you the right to judge them. If you want a quiet life this April, try to resist giving your opinion – even if it is asked of you. Things will be a lot simpler, I promise.

Card of the Month — The Page of Swords

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21

Recent actions related to financial matters in the workplace have left certain people quite unimpressed by your behaviour, prompting an alarming amount of discussion amongst many of your colleagues. Few people are enamoured by how you have acted and it is not unreasonable to suggest that your stock has fallen with both employers and associates following a number of poor decisions and a general lack of judgement in the business arena. What you need to do now is make amends and get things back on track; your credibility cannot sustain many more hits. If you value your pride and the opinions of those you work with, act fast because it is in your hands.

Card of the Month — The Four of Pentacles www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index SAGITTARIUS

November 22 – December 21 Monetary issues have been on your mind a great deal just recently, causing you more than a few sleepless nights.

Fortunately, however, things look like improving as April progresses and some positive news in the post will go a long way to putting your mind at rest. On the work front you may also find yourself presented with an opportunity to boost your income but before you agree to anything just make certain that you don’t overcommit just to try and please everyone concerned. Whilst you may be keen to improve your employment situation, you shouldn’t do so without ensuring plans are practically implemented. The last thing you want to do is make a fool of yourself.

Card of the Month — The Knight of Pentacles

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 Misplaced words could cause tempers to fly this month after a family gathering is sent into a state of confusion following an ill-judged comment that is aired. You will be approached to act in the role of peacemaker and, whilst this might not sit comfortably with you, unless you adopt the mantle things could get spectacularly out of hand. So put your concerns aside and do what you can for the greater good. You may also be feeling somewhat emotional around the end of the month as you bid farewell to those closest to you following a family visit, and this leaves you evaluating many of the things in your life, especially the direction in which you have been heading lately.

Card of the Month — The Ten of Pentacles AQUARIUS January 22 – February 21

Things may not be as rosy as you like in a relationship this month and that is set to cause more than a little friction as you embark on a two-week holiday with the person in question. It isn’t quite the right time to go away, and if this trip hadn’t been planned some time in advance perhaps you would have reconsidered, bearing in mind the state of your feelings at the moment. However, there’s no sense in approaching matters with a negative frame of mind; besides which the signs appear to be falling in your favour and this break might turn out to be just the right tonic for healing any rifts that do exist – so give it a chance.

Card of the Month — Temperance

PISCES February 21 – March 20

You will be alarmed to discover this month that a recent relationship break-up is still having an impact on your life, but not in quite the obvious way you might imagine. You see he or she was not completely honest with you and you are set to discover that an ex-partner may have been employing some serious deception behind your back in the last months before you split. Whilst some might suggest this revelation to be unimportant considering the outcome of your union, it would appear that the conceit did involve a close friend who is still very much part of your social scene. This is going to make things very complicated but, unless you confront the person in question, you will never shake the firm hold your past has upon you.

Card of the Month — The Two of Swords

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Lady Gaga

Victoria Beckham

Elton John

FAMOUS ARIES THIS MONTH

Home & Furnishing Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Hotels & Serviced Residences Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 31 Baisan International Hotel . . . . . . . . . 53 Fraser Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Hotel Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Ramada Manama City Centre . . . . . . 49 Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 The Diplomat Radisson BLU Hotel . . 45 The Domain Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 The Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Jewellery & Watches Asia Jewellers (Van Cleef & Arpels) 2,3 Pandora . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Sharif Group (Cavalli) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Medical & Dental Services

Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC JAC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Others Applied Science University . . . . . . . . 17 Bahrain Arts Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 BMMI (Alosra Supermarket) . . . . . . IBC Farhat International Tours & Travel . 25 Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (Gulf Interiors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (Gulf Property Show) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 K Home & Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 N.E.C.Bahrain (Hillsong United) . . . . .77

Restaurants & Cafés Cavalli Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 El Gringo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Isfahani Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Dr. Rim Bogari Dental Center . . . . . . 111

McDonalds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Middle East Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 27,51

Meisei . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Raising Cane’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Symmetria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Reem Al Bawadi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Motoring

The Foundry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 The Grub Shack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . 67

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge 105

EK. Kanoo (Motor City:Subaru) . . . . . 23

YaSalam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

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

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets

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

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

April 2017 127

lastword

Old Man’s Rant

GEG HOPKINS With oil-prices low and indeed the endless troubles in the Arab world, the last few months… ok years… ok you win, decades… have been so disappointing.

How disappointing? Well, you’ve reached your 50s and wake up with a morning glory, but looking down with pride, you see your nose is blocking it out. Yeh, that disappointing! Or you have three mates turn up and you open your fat bloated, expensive bag of potato crisps to offer them one and you have to go without.

The GDN tells us daily that: “Bahrain is on the crest of prosperity and it is only moments away.” If you believe that, you surely believe Herpes was a Greek God. Low oil prices and on-going troubles in the Middle East and at home, trying to earn even enough to pay the grossly exorbitant rents that landlords are still trying to charge causes enough stress to give us all giant aneurisms. The only rent adjustments Bahrain has ever seen are stupendously upwards. You’d have more luck trying to persuade your landlord to get intimate with Lorena Bobbitt than get him to lower your rent. Likewise, lady landlords too, and there are plenty, so that smile, concocted flirt and pleasantries are utterly wasted. Their time is soon though and it won’t be just 10 per cent off rents; their buildings will be unoccupied.

Maybe it is only media that is in trouble, with hundreds of thousands of iPhones or similar out there clicking away. Yep, everyone is now an instant video expert or interviewer. “Screw the quality!” shouts the client, social media is free and we seem to have a society which cannot tell the difference between levels of professionalism or quality creative art. Well, without good professional media baby, you aint really got a credible country.

The government of Bahrain is building houses 128 April 2017

for nationals at a phenomenal rate compared to many other governments around the world.

None of that helps the expatriates who still believe in Santa Claus and continue to pour in looking for that pot of gold. Just the electricity and water charges, as high as the towers they supply, are enough to contradict that notion.

With wages stagnant at rock bottom, we have as much chance of getting a pay rise as one would of fulfilling a dream of farting in Buckingham Palace.

Demographics have changed drastically since the boom time ‘80s with so many expats now just basically cheap labour and the like, thus the level of sophistication has dropped dramatically. That is not good for the bigger picture and certainly not good for artistic, creative media as witnessed with the appalling standards on show out there and on radio. Few see or perceive anything wrong with it, so take the money and run. What money? Or is it that the nation doesn’t care because that is what they have been fed for so long now and; “If you give the people crap, they want more crap, if you give them quality, they want better,” said some ranting artist once upon a time.

How can we put this without upsetting the PC apple cart? Oh who cares? Just claim you suffer from Tourette’s syndrome and loudly shout XXXX IT! Really though, looking around it is quite frightening. George Lucas and Disney could find enough oddities to cast Star Wars #204 and Beauty and Beast #2 respectively. Incidentally, the latter has been banned in Kuwait because one of the characters is homosexual. Quite why Disney felt compelled to ‘bend’ even a cartoon character as such is beyond PC obsession, but hey he won’t miss the million or so revenue.

Anyway, that’s by the by.

Getting back on track; what will Bahrain do when the milch cow can no longer survive and the church charity coffers are empty having supported so many who stupidly hung on,

deluded that it will surely get better.

‘Expatriates earn big bucks!’ That is a fallacy, but a very few get a good wad and some do get their rent paid which goes with utilities thrown in, but that is just another excuse now for landlords to increase rents. Of course, what seems like a very low wage here, was considered a good pocket from whence they came and the Bahraini ‘Arbabs‘ have cashed in plenty. However, with the current situation, new intakes might find themselves as disappointed as a bald Sikh.

Do you remember when the first Russians started arriving, just after Glasnost. Poor they were, but not anymore, and now represent the more affluent among the tribes. There was a spoof radio show done at the time, which in those days could NOT be aired for fear of having no more use for nail varnish. The scene was in an aeroplane and the so-called main character was sitting next to a Russian. In conversation it was mentioned that so many Russians were heading in and he asked the guy; “Why are so many Russians flocking here?” To which the heavily accented Russian replied; “Because ‘flocking’ for Dollars better is.”

Nothing ever comes down in Bahrain, except trousers in one of the million massage parlours now clocking up the number of new business setups that we so frequently hear boasted about.

The business acumen in Bahrain generally follows what he or she did down the road, since rocket science is not so much part of the school curriculum on Fantasy Island. Very little outside the government or privileged few invest in manufacturing or science technology, which of course creates industry and jobs, even if you have to employ expatriates to run it, it generates business all round. Well, a lot more than a single watchman at the bottom of your high-rise apartment block. Anybody see a ‘Catch 22’ here?

Anything that is considered no qualifications required, such as advertising agencies and obviously massage parlours, of which there are just as many, is the way to make bucks with no real expenditure. So open another shawarma shop and fill roads and gardens with more wasted flyers. Good Tamkeen money to the wind.

OR, like a leggy synchronised swimmer’s aerial foot fest, build yet another 200-apartment highrise and snag at least one big budget American from the base and cash in. Curious as to just who is taking up this mass amount of residential and office space; as dusk falls, we all so often look skyward to see how many lights are on in the blocks, thinking; “Is there anyone living there or has anyone taken office space.” You spot one light, maybe two and think; “My God! It’s like those Lays crisps packs (mentioned earlier).” www.bahrainthismonth.com

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