Bahrain This Month - August 2012

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

August 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 8 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sizzling Ramadan Deals Galore

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Featured This Month:

Galleria 2012 Exhibition | India in Bahrain | Eid Wonders @ LPOD

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

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Issue 180

Contents August 2012 Cover Story:

28 Sizzling Ramadan Wherever you choose to go this month, deals and promotions can be found everywhere, from our shopping malls,

28

supermarkets and car showrooms.

Happenings: Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of August 2012:

23

26

23 Female Ambition: Galleria exhibition puts women first 26 Bahrain Science Centre: Fun for the kids during their holidays 28 Traditional Welcome: Arab greetings at Bahrain City Centre 32 Eid Wonders: It’s all happening at Lost Paradise of Dilmun 36 Cultural Spectacle: Islamic experience at the Grand Mosque 38 Second Home: Indian Club nears a century of hospitality 40 Competitive Instincts: Junior golfers take to the fairways 42 Don’t Be Caught Out: Cricketers get ready for the new season

Business:

51 Engaging Ideas

51

66

After a dozen years, the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society can be proud of its achievements, but there is still much to be accomplished.

52 Time to be Social September sees a series of conferences and workshops devoted to the on-line world of social media; a digital opportunity not to be missed.

54

107 Bystander

54 Pet Food Conundrum Perhaps not the most obvious of career paths to embark upon; Ahmed Al Sharaf, though, has turned a personal loss into a business, dedicated to our pets and what they eat.

At BTM we joined the French as they embraced Bastille Day, went to the prom courtesy of St. Christopher’s School and celebrated a JJ’s Irish Restaurant’s birthday.

There were car launches from Mercedes, Subaru and Nissan, and a dragon show at Lost Paradise of Dilmun. We also got into the spirit of Ramadan with visits to the Zallaq Sofitel Hotel and Bushido restaurant.

BTM August 2012 3

Issue 180

Contents August 2012 India in Bahrain:

63 On a High Note The Indian ambassador to the Kingdom, Dr Mohan Kumar,

105

says the relationship between Bahrain and his country continues to get stronger and stronger.

Downtime: 89 Secrets to Social Success: What is really cool?

90 Gadgets: Quirky inventions 92 Music: Wild ones in flight 94 Computer Games: Secret stories 95 Websites: Everyone is lost 96 Apps: Drawing water 97 Movies: Ice Age girls

92

99

Motoring: 99 Stunning Speedster: Porsche Boxster 100 Wheels: Mercedes-Benz GLK 103 Showcase: SsangYong Korando 105 Big Deals on Wheels: Ramadan promotions

Dining: 107 Abd El Wahab: Quintessential Lebanese 108 Showcase: Sumo Sushi & Bento 111 Restaurant Listing: Find your ideal venue

113

120

After Dark: 113 Dublin: Heading for a crash?

114 Happenings: Where to be seen this month 115 Showcase: Pars International Hotel

Showcase: 117 What’s New: Festive aromas 118 Marketplace: Latest products and services 36

38

40

133 134 135 136

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WIN WIN Tarotscope AD Index Last word BTM August 2012 5

The team

Bahrain This Month August 2012

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Publishing Director David M. Robertson Editorial queries: editor@redhousemarketing.com Editorial Consultant Dr. Paul Balles Assistant Editors Alison Coldridge Elma Bartholomew

Dear Readers,

Staff Writer Maryam Toorani Contributors James Claire (dining) Bystander Editor Anil Ravi Shankar Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Dalal Al-Sabbagh, Romeo San Miguel, Rodolfo A. Reyes Jr. Staff Photographers Shankar Kunhambu, Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Sales Manager Mayukh Majumdar Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Shani Davel Circulation Manager Fawaz Al Balooshi Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Rafeeq Mohammed, Gopal Arul Kumar, Epegenio Tempra Jr. Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

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

Cover

Cover Picture: Engaging the spirit of the Holy Month served with a traditional Arabic welcome of gahwa and dates.

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

August 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 8

The prospect of Ramadan in the middle of summer, I have to say, did leave me wondering how after-sunset Iftar and Ghagba events would pan out. Any misgivings I might have had were swept aside; event after event I attended in the first week of the Holy Month yielded packed venues, with plenty of walkin customers.

It would also seem that many of us have taken our summer vacation earlier than usual, returning to the Kingdom to spend time with family and friends during Ramadan. I’ve always regarded this occasion as special; the real nature of Bahrainis comes to the fore with their openness and hospitality.

While the usual raft of events might be absent this month, there are still plenty of deals and promotions around the Kingdom to get us out of our homes.

You can out find more by reading through our happenings pages and the ‘Big Deals on Wheels’ review in the motoring section.

As is customary, Eid always brings with it change, and this year is no different. We take a look at two new dining venues; the first is a new location for a venerable fixture, as Lanterns opens a second restaurant in Adliya. Over at the Elite Crystal Hotel, a new Lebanese restaurant, with entertainment, will burst into life once Ramadan comes to a close.

Our entrepreneur this month, Ahmed Al Sharaf, tells us how he has turned a personal loss into an emerging regional business. I must warn you, however; if you prefer not to know what your pet might be eating, perhaps you should skip this article!

The relationship between Bahrain and India is placed under the spotlight with our ‘India in Bahrain’ feature. As the Indian ambassador to the Kingdom, Dr Mohan Kumar, indicates, high-level exchanges during the course of 2012 have only served to emphasise the importance of the ties between the two countries.

We also preview two major events to take place during September; the inaugural endurance motoring festival at the Bahrain International Circuit and a series of social media conferences and workshops.

So, enjoy the great way of life that the Kingdom has to offer as we spend time with loved ones in the final weeks of the Holy Month. Ramadan Kareem!

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Featured This Month:

Galleria 2012 Exhibition | India in Bahrain | Eid Wonders @ LPOD

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

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BTM August 2012 7

bystanderthismonth

French National Day Celebrations HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador hosted a reception to celebrate French National Day. The reception was attended by HE Abdulla Abdullatif, Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary of Foreign Affairs, diplomats and VIP guests. The event was held at HE’s official residence HE Christian Testot, HE Abdulla Abdullatif & HE Shaikh Abdulla bin Thamer Al-Thani, Qatari Ambassador cut the celebratory cake

Mehdi & Shanjida

Mwai, Junghee & Liliane

Hamid Al Zayani & Stephanie Williams

HE Christian Testot & HE Karim Shaker

Nabeel Ajoor

Jawad Al Hawaj, Nancy & Nasser

Flore & Nilda

Agus

Shirley & Silvana

Raskrishnan & Roland

Nejib

Xavier, Margaux, Olivier & Ben

8 August 2012 BTM

Astrid & Matt

Milena & Bridget

Dr Ali & Najalaa

Mohammed & Tariq

Nina & Mansoor

Jiean & Meeji

Olivier & Maxi

Lani & Michel

Smith, Axelle, George & Jean-Yves

Paola, Tareq & Stephanie

Eric, Jacques & Orace

www.natuzzi.com

OFF

Tel. 17.564444 - Fax. 17.564466 email: phodecor@batelco.com.bh Seef district, facing Ritz Carlton Entrance - Palace Palms Bldg.

35%

UP TO

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Sound Of Music On Show The classic Sound of Music hit the stage in Bahrain as part of the Bahrain Summer Festival 2012. The event was held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, Sanabis. The Sound of Music recalls the dramatic true story of Maria and the Von Trapp family as they struggle for freedom, set against the backdrop of the beginning of the Second World War. The award-winning production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's classic musical featured extravagant costumes, a magnificent set, a talented cast and an orchestra direct from London's West End. The show was directed by John Payton from London-based Popular Productions

Ali, Nadine, Renuka & Sarwa

Eric, Nicolas, Diana & Amy

Nicolas & Alexia

James, Thomas, Diya, Hannah & Anju

Amanda, Florence & Tessa

Andrew, Karina & Justin

Marwa & Mubarak

Poonam, Chrishya & Jeff

Beatriz & Clara

Ysabella & Irene

Jayashree & Dipti

Amy, Taylor & Frank

Hebah, Amira & Dunia

Jan, Carly & Kev

Fatima & Mariam

One of the scenes from the musical

10 August 2012 BTM

Shaikha & Kiran

Dannely

Another scene from Sound of Music

bystanderthismonth

Mercedes Benz SL Launch Under the patronage of HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, Minister of of Industry & Commerce, Al Haddad Motors, sole distributors for Mercedes Benz vehicles in the kingdom held a launch for the Mercedes Benz SL-Class automobile. The launch was held at the Grand Foyer, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa last month

The all-new SL Mercedes Benz

Ali, Farah, Faten, Abdulla Al Haddad, Reem & Feras

Mohammed, Rami & Imran

Esky & Pierric

Ashraf & Hameed

Graeme, Bruno, Mark & Jeff

12 August 2012 BTM

Graeme & HE Dr Hassan Fakhro

Rasool Al Haddad

Maisa, Deema Al Haddad & Huda

Melvin, Tamim, Mark, Redha & Ali

Sonali, Karan & Angie

Fatima, Mohammed & Amani

Tareq Wafa, Jawad Habib & Rasool Al Haddad

Eman

Roland & Badriya

Abdulla

Lother & Hrachuhi

Kareem, Lilian & Adel

Ashok & Shehzad

Nathalia

Nadia

bystanderthismonth

Bushido Ramadan Tent Launch Bushido, in the Seef District, hosted an exclusive evening for a number of guests to launch its Ramadan Tent (Bushra) prior to the advent of the Holy Month of Ramadan

Laith & Nicolas

Fadi & Majed

Khalifa Rumaihi, Milena & HE Enrico Padula, Italian Ambassador

Eriq, Marie, Amaris & Yamil

Chong, Anas & Gerry

Alexia, Kristy, Sari & Sophie

Amaris & Yamil

Malou & Chantra

Mike, Betty & Melissa

Lalith & Marion

Charbel, Paul & Ian

Yasser & Mohamed

Shak & Ahmed

Mohammed & Fatima

Avil & Praveen

Ssangyoung Vehicle Launch Ssangyong vehicles distributor in Bahrain, Motorcity, launched the new Actyon Sports, a new generation sports utility pickup and the SsangYong Korando SUV in Bahrain. The launch was held in front of Starbucks in Seef Mall last month

Sathish, Brett & Agnal

14 August 2012 BTM

The Ssangyong Actyon Sports

Arun, Khalid & Zaid

The Ssangyong Korando

Bashar, Hani & Sunil

Venu

bystanderthismonth

British School Leavers Ball The British School of Bahrain (BSB) held its Masquerade-themed Leavers Ball at the Mรถvenpick Hotel

Matt, Raawiyah, Afra & Jacques

Katie, Larissa, Hollie, Phobe & Safra

Mehmood, Peter, Zeina, Saffiya, Ella & Sherif

Paddy, Simone, Catherine & Sumanth

Afkar, Deven, Arjun & Michel

Asad, Sean & Daniel

Eva & Ellie

Kunal, Yasmeen, Narmine & Saif

16 August 2012 BTM

Liam & Hannah

Charinder & Isabel

Kamran & Neha

Rudy & Katia

Amani, Kita & Qaasim

Naufal & Jad

David & Faraaj

Josh & Snej

Marina & Abi

Megan & Amanda

Katia & Ginelle

Jumana & Melaak

Josh & Jessie

Sandra & Faten

Jessie & Sarah

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JJ's Irish Restaurant 13th Anniversary An extravagant Irish celebration was held to mark the 13th anniversary of JJ’s Irish Restaurant. The outlet hosted a School Disco themed night with guests in fancy dress and partying to old school tunes

Siyana & Jo

Elliot & Ben

Nicola, Cheri & Lisa

Robin & Batman

Bobby & Aisling

Tom, Dick & Harry

Kate & Mohammed

Nicola & Angela

Jose & Acelia

Kate & Lucy

Jo & Dee

Colin, Leanne & Aisling

Andrew, Nadeem & Alex

Yvonne & Zoe

Lisa & Yvonne

Caroline & Lewis

JJ's resident band The Noise

Dr Ali Mattar Dinner Dr Ali Mattar hosted a dinner party for a number of his friends at his residence in Riffa last month

Morena, Dr Ali & Ingrid

Christine, Dr Ali, Renuka & Zeenat

18 August 2012 BTM

Maria & Mohammed

Gahtan & Dr Ali

Alya, Dr Ali & Luma

Mohammed & Dr Khalid

bystanderthismonth

The Laughter Factory Comedy Show Three stand up comedians had a number of people laughing all evening at the Laughter Factory Comedy Show. The event was organised by Punchline Media Bahrain in association with The Comedy Store London and showcased the talents of Jojo Smith, Sean Collins and Rainer Hersch. The show was held at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain last month

Liju, Lejan & Blessy

Richard, Sabrina & KG

Rainer Hersch

Mohammed & Hussain

Gail, George, Imran & Fahad

Ahmed, DJ Outlaw, Khalid & Baraa

Ramla, Fatina, Zain, Safa & Fatma

Simon, Elizabeth & Andrew

Clement & Guraz

Mohammed & Waleed

Nada, Imran & Zainab

Mariam, Burzana & Madhavi

Danny, Stephanie, Debbie & Suzanne

Shana, Carianne & Alisha

Chetan, Hishang, Hiten, Bharat & Hiten

Sara, Fatima, Sarah & Anna

Jeraldine, Irish, Charlotte & Susanna

20 August 2012 BTM

Tahani & Jenan

Tracy & Melissa

Raewyn & Jonathan

Rev Philip

bystanderthismonth

Roche Bobois Exclusive Sale Preview Evening Roche Bobois Bahrain hosted an exclusive Sale Preview Night for its VIP customers at the store in the Seef District

Dana & Hawra

Huya & Kanwa

An exclusive piece on display

Silvana & Dawood

Dana & Liz

Yaseen & Hisham

Canada Day Lunch Canadian expatriates from Bahrain & the Eastern Province celebrated Canada Day with a lunch at Upstairs Downstairs Restaurant in Adliya last month

Yetta & Anne

Kimberley, Yetta & Brenda

Kalyan & Julie

Edvogelsang, Annette, Maureen & Alan

Gaby, Anne-Marie & Jihad

22 August 2012 BTM

John & Pierre

Janet, Karen & Rohini

Marysia, Chris & Helenke

Kathy & Costas

Vlado & Leona

Ratna & Bryan

Jonie & Daniel

Wynne & David

Chris

Debra & Stefan

Mike

Chris

happeningsthismonth When? August 3-4, 10-11 | Event? Galleria 2012 Exhibition | Venue? Gulf Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel

Female Ambition Show your support for the Kingdom’s established female entrepreneurs as they showcase their work and simultaneously raise funds for up-and-coming businesswomen.

If you thought the Kingdom had gone quiet for Ramadan, then you obviously aren’t aware of one of the year’s largest events.

The only all-female exhibition returns this month and promises to be bigger and better for both visitors and participants.

Created by Pro-Vision Events Bahrain in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Rights and Social Development, the exhibition has successfully evolved during its last two editions to become one of the most prolific exhibitions in the field of local fashion, design, and home businesses in the Kingdom.

During 2010 and 2011, over 200 local female designers and shop owners showcased their businesses and products plus new talents were given a platform to present their fresh initiatives. Even more entrepreneurs of all ages and backgrounds are expected to be involved this year, attracting a greater spread of visitors.

The idea is to boost Bahrain’s economy by supporting female Bahraini entrepreneurs in their endeavours, as after all, it’s no longer a man’s world! The Galleria Exhibition holds a unique place in its sector by showing an inspiring and impressive contribution towards the country’s financial health. Just as women worldwide are holding prominent roles in the business Also this month

world, this is also becoming the case in Bahrain. The exhibition will showcase how these successful women have paved their way in addition to presenting emerging achievers.

This year, the organisers have considered ways to build on the previous success and have introduced a number of new elements. These include competitions for the best designer, the best looking abaya, dress and accessories. Participants have also been provided with more presentation space and security measures have been put into place to prevent any theft occurring. Moreover, there’s a new and easy-to-use website that provides up-to-date information and answers frequently asked questions for both visitors and those involved.

As well as being constructive for participants, the event will additionally raise money to support the showcasing of new female talents. Proceeds achieved will assist women who have promising futures as professionals and will transform their ideas into reality.

Due to the fact that the event is purely for ladies, visitors will be restricted to women over the age of 14 who have an eye for new trends and fashion, and who wish to purchase the latest products with exclusive discounts.

The exhibition is a great way for the women of Bahrain to show their support for fellow ladies in an effort to present their talent, ambition and potential. Plus, you may find yourself going home with armfuls of new goodies to flaunt!

E Visit www.gallaexpo.com.

36 x Arts & Culture - 38 x Clubs & Societies - 40 x Teens & Kids - 42 x Sports & Recreation

World days Take note of the days of importance this August.

When? August 8 Event? International Cat Day Do you show your cat the love and attention it deserves?

When? August 8 Event? Indigenous People’s Day Celebrate indigenous cultures and think about the need to preserve these practices.

When? August 12 Event? International Youth Day Help young people achieve their goals; they are the future!

When? August 13 Event? International Left-Handers’ Day Have some fun and write with the left hand for the day.

When? August 19 Event? World Humanitarian Day Reflect on all those who help others and think about how you can do the same.

When? August 21 Event? World Fashion Day Rejoice in the art of fashion and the designers who create such masterpieces.

When? August 23 Event? Abolition of Slavery Day Consider the horrific slavery that occurs worldwide every day.

BTM August 2012 23

When? Until August 30 | Event? Art exhibition | Venue? Al A’ali Shopping Complex

Little Artisans If your children need something to fill their time this school holiday, it might be an idea to boost their creativity by enrolling them in the artistic workshops at Albareh Art Gallery. The gallery’s aim, to promote Middle Eastern art to the world, is being explored further by introducing youngsters to the concept.

Beginning at the start of Ramadan last month, the first few weeks have included collage and mixed media on canvas plus painting on ceramics and has seen lots of children of all ages learn a new skill and make some new friends.

During the August stint, children aged eight to 12 years are invited to try their hand at painting on glass. Run by professional local artists, the workshops will keep your kids active and entertained, and best of all, out of your hair! It’s a great way to keep their minds stimulated whilst they are out of the school routine.

This workshop will run from Saturday August 4 to Wednesday August 8 from 10am to 1pm each day. It costs BD35 and materials need to be paid for additionally.

E Call 39 069-016.

When? August 10 | Event? Women’s world expo | Venue? Mövenpick Hotel

Leading Ladies Ramadan seems to have plenty of opportunities for Arabic women to present business concepts and ideas, as following the Galleria exhibition there is the Women’s world expo.

Held at the Mövenpick Hotel, hundreds of women are expected to attend to show exactly what they are made of! Bringing together female entrepreneurs and home businesses, this event will provide a platform to market products and services.

Only ladies are able to attend this exhibition, in keeping with its aim of highlighting the achievement of women. E Call 33 227-627 or 36 226-440.

24 August 2012 BTM

When? August 24 | Event? Anime comic festival | Venue? Marina Club

When? Until August 8 | Event? Art workshops | Venue? Albareh Art Gallery

happeningsthismonth

Musical Notes

Naqsh Art Gallery is holding a collaborative exhibition this month displaying the fusion of art and music.

Inspired by the stunning musical album ‘Steps in Cairo’ by world-renowned musicians Basim Darwish and Matthias Frey, the paintings reflect the smoothness of the album’s charming pieces.

The exhibition’s paintings mimic the harmonious interactions between the stunning oud echoes and the mystical notes of the ever-dazzling jazz through a unique blend between the colours, lines, shapes and contrasts.

E Call 17 591-313.

Comic Festival Calling all animation fanatics! Anime Comic Festival will be organising its first event this month with the goal of improving advertising within the anime and other related entertainment industries in Bahrain.

Attendees will be able to browse a huge range of anime, from Marvel/DC comics to Japanese animation.

There will be an abundance of action figures and tabletop gaming, plus additional entertainment and fun.

E Call 39 246-611.

GH Eid Al Fitr 2012-BTM Full Page Ad (August 2012).pdf

7/19/12

1:29:44

PM

happeningsthismonth When? Throughout August | Event? Various workshops | Venue? Bahrain Science Centre

BAHRAIN SCIENCE CENTRE

Play and Learn!

Have your children enjoy their holidays while still adding on to their academic portfolio. A series of exhibitions teaches kids how to learn and have fun at the same time.

26 August 2012 BTM

Starting their workshops early last month, the Bahrain Science Centre (BSC) has received a tremendous response with over 600 students joining in within the first 10 days.

Satisfied summer campers were spurred into motion with a series of fun-filled games and hands-on activities.

“The camp is a huge success among children. Keeping children gainfully occupied throughout the summer holidays is a task for every parent and these workshops keep them constructively, educationally and enjoyably occupied,” says assistant undersecretary of community development of the Ministry of Social Development (MOSD), Khalid Ishaq.

The centre, which falls under the MOSD, will continue running workshops over the summer school holiday period with a wide range of activities that are intertwined with scientific topics.

From science shows, storytelling, craft to educational games, the centre has organised something for everyone through its interactive workshops. Attendees will enter a world of imagination, as BSC storytellers bring tales from around the world to life. The entertaining and exciting events are designed to develop essential life skills for young visitors.

The workshops will continue through the Ramadhan month with opening hours from 9am to 2pm and 9pm to 11pm daily

except Wednesday afternoons and Friday mornings. Children will get to meet real scientists and explore the world of science using real equipments and specimens. With an aim to encourage kids to think creatively, the workshops will teach them to learn, observe, describe, analyze and interpret.

Currently operated and managed by MTE Studios, BSC is the first of its kind in the country and all the displays are designed to be educational. Schools in Bahrain started exploring the new centre by appointments prior to its official launch, with great success since it opened doors earlier this year.

The centre is located in a colourful three-storey building along Riyadh Avenue in Isa Town, near the Manama/Salmabad intersection. Inside are six interactive exhibition galleries, an auditorium, four laboratories, a café and a shop.

BSC aims to promote awareness of the importance of science and technology, complement the school curriculum, stimulate curiosity and innovation, and create a forum for public debate on science and technology issues. Additionally there are science shows, talks, debates, demonstrations, dissections and stargazing. In future, BSC will offer interschool competitions, excursions to places of scientific interest, camping trips and many other exciting activities. E Call 13 684-686.

Seef Mall, 17581121 Bahrain City Centre, 17178410

happeningsthismonth

BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE

Flavours of Ramadan There will be no shortage of activities and amusements for the entire family this Ramadan. Learn about local traditions and enjoy Iftar with a twist, all in one place.

28 August 2012 BTM

Head to Bahrain City Centre (BCC) with the entire family this Ramadan. Children will be entertained as they develop their creative talents with arts and crafts, learn the history behind Bahraini traditions and enjoy Iftar or Sohour at any one of the mall’s international dining outlets.

Entering the mall, shoppers will be greeted by festive-themed décor which reflects the essence of the Holy Month. The Central Galleria will transform into a traditional majlis-style arena for Lewan Ramadan. It will be the main location for bringing the community together, and will host a jam-packed schedule of activities each day for children and families to enjoy together.

Activities are for parents and kids alike, and will include pottery painting. In partnership with Studio Ceramics, children will be guided on how to decorate their own Ramadan-inspired souvenir, which they are then able to take home. Bookworms can join mesmerising storytelling groups to hear about local legends, and even have their picture taken with a falcon.

Traditional henna painting is available at the heritage area and budding astronomers can build their own telescope to see the stars. Meanwhile, origami workshops will teach the ancient Japanese ornamental art of paper folding. There will also be daily puppet shows and a games corner to keep all ages entertained throughout the day.

The majority of activities will start from 9pm daily, except for pottery painting, which will also offer an additional early afternoon session from 11am until 2pm. Leewan Ramadan is organised in conjunction with the Ministry of Social Development and is sponsored by Viva Jusoor.

With over 340 retail brands to choose from, Ramadan at the BCC promises new and exciting events, foods and experiences.

Those that are fasting are welcome to drop into the dedicated Ramadan Clinic, where experts will be on hand to offer advice on how to eat healthy this month. Also, be sure to check out BCC’s tempting range of options to enjoy Iftar or Sohour. Diners can take their pick from traditional Arabic restaurants, popular food outlets that have specially-created menus for Ramadan.

Charity campaign Be a part of something bigger this Ramadan by supporting BCC’s ‘Make a Difference’ campaign. Running for the past three years, this philanthropic cause sees visitors to the mall being encouraged to donate clothing, eye-glasses, non-perishable food and books for the benefit of Al Noor Charity Welfare. Customers can bring thier donations to the Customer Service Desk, with all collections going to benefit needy families in Bahrain.

E Call 17 177-771.

happeningsthismonth YATEEM CENTRE

Win a Trip!

Have you been planning to head down to the souq recently but are dreading the parking issues?

Yateem Centre opens up their visitor’s car park in the basement with up to two hours free parking for customers — plenty of time to go inside for some shopping and even have a wander around the souq. The centre also offers a new incentive that could land you the vacation you’ve been dying to take.

The new summer raffle draw gives shoppers the opportunity to win a free air ticket to anywhere around the globe. Every BD5 spent entitles shoppers to a free raffle ticket, so the more you spend the more chances you have of winning.

“Last year, one enterprising shopper actually had a stamp made at Immediate Printing with his name and telephone number, so he didn’t have to write out his details on every raffle! The cost of the stamp paid for his parking, too,” says centre manager, Andrew Petty.

The centre has some delicious Iftar options for the Ramadan month as well. The popular Bahraini restaurant, Al Osra, has recently opened their new main branch at the mall, proving to be an attractive destination for those wanting good food at good prices. The more casual snacker can opt for Jasmi’s or a spicy dish at Saffron Souk.

For the Fashionistas on the hunt for the perfect Eid outfit, the Centre lines up a host of trendy clothes and cosmetics boutiques. Denim Chic, Clouds, Moon’s Top Shop, Redha Trading and Candy Country are just a few retailers you don’t want to miss.

After a stroll around the shops, enjoy some savouries and coffee with free WiFi at Costa Coffee.

E Call 17 215-615.

bystanderthismonth

Malaysian Embassy Dinner The Malaysian Embassy in association with Talent Corp Malaysia hosted a dinner reception for members of the Malaysian community in Bahrain. The event that was attended by HE Dato Ahmed Shahizan Bin Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador, was held at the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel, Bahrain City Centre last month

Amna & Amy

Ahmed & Aziz

30 August 2012 BTM

HE Ahmed Shahizan

Mohammed Shahafeez

HE Ahmed Shahizan & Rashidi

Anwar, Suhil & Aziz

Muhsain & Bersih

Faisal

Saliha, Loo Mun Ching & Siti

Kamaroza & Tajudin

Abdulaziz

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happeningsthismonth When? August 19-September 1 | Event? Eid shows | Venue? Lost Paradise of Dilmun This Eid season brings not only one but two of the most exhilarating world-class acts in entertainment to the Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD).

LOST PARADISE OF DILMUN

Eid Wonders

The Wakeboard Show Combining the artistic and dangerous skills of water skiing, snow boarding and surfing techniques — this amazing show is also a recognised international extreme sport. All the way from Budapest, Hungary, this act will feature some of the world’s professional wakeboarding talents performing phenomenal stunts, creative displays of agility and acrobatic moves, which will no doubt delight visitors of all ages.

Celebrate Eid Al-Fitr with more marvels, more surprises and a one-of-a-kind show that the whole family will enjoy.

Samson the World’s Strongest Man This extraordinary Bulgarian act is a real world wonder. Prepare to gasp in disbelief and awe, as you witness what many have seen on TV and the Internet brought to reality here in Bahrain.

Among many other high level skills, one of his most difficult and incredible stunts is pulling a 1.2-tonne vehicle with his mere hands alone. Adding more drama to this act, 2.5 tonnes of vehicles will be passed over his body.

All of the shows are free with standard entrance tickets to LPOD, which features more than 18 slides and attractions as well as world class entertainment. The wakeboarding show will run from August 19 to September 1 while Samson the Strongest Man will run from August 19 to September 13, both with three shows daily. E Call 17 845-100.

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Baharat Restaurant Pre-Launch The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre invited a number of guests to a pre-launch Iftar event of the hotel's new Baharat Restaurant

Maike, Marco & Florian

Omali & Nasser

32 August 2012 BTM

Abdulrahman, HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, Yulia, Ibrahim & Raed

David with Konstantinos Pallikaropoulas

Ghassan & Chantal

Ilhame & Alexia

HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, Bridget & Ebrahim

Gracielly & Mary

Ibrahim & Vivian

Khalid

Waleed Sharif

Abdul Hameed Hatim

Chef Issam

Reasons to celebrate this Ramadan This Ramadan, celebrate the spirit of sharing with a special offer from Al Haddad Motors. Bring your family to our showroom and enjoy our hospitality and a special kids play area. The special feeling of owning a Mercedes-Benz has just got better with: • Lucky raffle draw for a business class trip to Burj Al Arab** • 2 Years or 30,000 km service package* • 5 Years comprehensive premium coverage* • Vehicle protection package • BD 100 gift voucher • Trade–in offers • Special bank rate Extended Ramadan opening hours from Morning – 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Evening – 8:30 pm – 11:30 pm *Terms and conditions apply *2-year maufacturer warranty, 3-year dealer extended warranty ** 3 days and 2 nights inclusive of airport tansfer and meals www.facebook.com/MercedesBenzBahrain

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happeningsthismonth When? September 28-29 | Event? Endurance race | Venue? BIC

BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT

Endurance Test

The Bahrain International Circuit hosts a brand new series in September with the advent of professional endurance racing in the Kingdom.

34 August 2012 BTM

The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is all geared up to host one of the most unique and exciting events of the year. The ‘Six Hours of Bahrain’ endurance race is a first-of-its-kind event here in the Kingdom and will see some of the biggest names in motorsport participating on the BIC track.

As part of the 2012 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), the new festival of racing will be a great way to end the summer season. The calendar sees eight rounds held in eight different countries across four continents, with Bahrain hosting the season’s sixth meeting and the only WEC event taking place in the Middle East.

“The endurance race will mark another first for the Kingdom of Bahrain and for BIC. This category of motorsport has a very rich history; its very essence has been derived from the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans race in France, which is also a part of the WEC,” says BIC chief executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa.

The race is scheduled to flag off at 4pm and end at 10pm, giving Bahraini race fans a fresh and captivating spectacle of night racing to enjoy. No less than 32 cars will be lining up for the event, battling it out in four different competition categories.

Some of the cars used in the event are not your typical road vehicles but special breeds used specifically for this category of motorsport. The Le Mans Prototype 1 and 2 are the fastest

closed-wheel cars in circuit racing today, and they can reach maximum speeds even higher than F1 cars.

Fans will be pleased to see some familiar faces getting in the driver’s seat of some of the challengers, as some ex-F1 stars are signed up for the endurance series. Top international teams from around the world will be represented in all of the classes including car manufacturers such as Audi, Toyota, Nissan, Ferrari and Aston Martin.

To ensure the event is family-friendly, the weekend will feature plenty of other attractions other than the WEC. There will be support series featuring some of the Kingdom’s top local championships as well as plenty of off -track entertainment.

Expect to be treated to live music, games, carnival rides, food and beverage stalls and souvenir shops.

E Call 17 450-000.

happeningsartsculture When? Eid weekend | Event? Cultural tour | Venue? Al Fateh Grand Mosque

Al Fateh Grand Mosque

A Spectacle of Culture The Ahmed Al Fateh Islamic Centre is back again with their 29th annual Eid event that celebrates breaking barriers and building bridges.

The Open House was first started in 1998 to help promote a better understanding between Muslims and people of other faiths. Gaining popularity in recent years, the concept has become a major tourist attraction for the Grand Mosque in Juffair, as well as offering local expatriates a day of family fun.

“There are a lot of non-Muslims living and visiting Bahrain; our programmes are a means to have them experience Arabic and Islamic culture, traditions and hospitality,” says Najmah Muhammed, administrative coordinator at the centre.

Eid is a three-day festival of the end of the Ramadan month, and this year’s event has a series of activities to get everyone celebrating. Aside from guided tours of the mosque, visitors can get calligraphy writings of their names, henna paintings for children and ladies and even get a quick Arabic language course.

To make it all the more exciting for the children, a special corner of Al Fateh will be dedicated to them with an assortment of fun games. For those looking for a more in-depth educational experience, the centre has also organised a discussion along with an assorted availability of Islamic books to read and purchase.

Throughout the event, volunteers will be on hand as well as refreshments, food and traditional sweets. If you are looking

36 August 2012 BTM

for a souvenir to take home, traditional dresses and handicrafts corner and a gift shop can be found.

Architectural wonder The cultural experience of the Open House is further depicted with an emphasis on art. The event will feature a multi-media programme and poster and photography exhibitions. Although organisers have lined up some interesting activities, for many visitors the mere structure of the mosque and centre is an artistic experience in itself.

“Many of our visitors are attracted to the building itself, which is considered one of the biggest architectural marvels in the entire region and also one of Bahrain’s biggest tourist attractions,” continues Najmah.

The theme of geometric shapes and patterns are evident in Al Fateh, and noticeable as soon as you see the large wooden doors of the building. This goes on inside on the marble floor, carpets, walls and on the windows; calligraphy, which is a major means of visual expression in the Muslim world, also plays a role in Al Fateh’s structure and design.

Quotes from the Qur’an in calligraphic writing adorn the inner walls of the mosque. During the tour, visitors will witness the traditional elements that make up a place of Muslim worship like the mihrab, minbar, minaret, sahn and the beautiful dome which can be seen from the outside.

E Call 17 727-773.

Bahrain in Pictures Ausamah Al Absi’s ‘Faces of Bahrain’ photographic pieces will be on display this month.

The Labor Market Regulatory Authority chief’s passion for capturing special scenes from around the globe has taken him to Europe, the Far East, USA and the Arab world. The exhibition will portray the Kingdom’s breathtaking landscape along with shots of many places and faces.

Throughout the month, visitors can participate in a silent auction with winners announced at the end of Ramadan. Proceeds from the sale of the photographs will benefit the Royal Charity Organisation.

E Call 17 100-100.

happeningsclubssocieties When? August 15 | Event? India’s Independence Day | Venue? Indian Club

Vijay Bhatia

A Second Home Alison Coldridge An infectious spirit, teamed with some of the best events on the island, is a winning combination for one large expatriate club in the Kingdom.

The Indian Club of Bahrain has been running for just a few years shy of a century; an incredible achievement that has been reached through one simple aim. “Whatever the members want, the members get,” states the current president, Vijay Bhatia.

The club represents a family; it’s a second home where a huge percentage of the 1,200 members know one another.

“We work together and listen to what our members would like and we action that as best we can,” Vijay explains. “Our members stay members, sometimes for their whole lives.

I myself take pride that, after 45 years of coming to the club, I finally have the chance to serve everybody,” he says.

The club’s large premises in Manama features a huge range of entertainment options, including a library, two bars, a games room, a football pitch, a stage, a racket court, a gym and much more.

“We are well-known for our many sub-clubs, including a toastmasters club for adults and kids, as well as one for arts and a host of sports,” adds Vijay.

There’s also a jam-packed annual calendar filled with diverse events that both young and old can take pleasure from.

“We celebrate everything. India is filled with people of different religions, cultures and interests and we endeavour to

38 July 2012 BTM

cover these all throughout the year,” he continues.

During August alone, the club will observe Eid Al Fitr, the Hindu Holy Month, and hold a Bandra Fair, similar to the one held in the Indian district itself. “These events aren’t segregated; instead everyone comes together and celebrates with one another like a true family,” he observes.

But the biggest upcoming festivity has to be the celebration of India’s Independence Day. Vijay, along with the other committee members, has gathered many forms of entertainment for the members to enjoy.

“We begin the day at 6:30am with the hoisting of both the Bahraini and Indian flags,” Vijay advises. “This is followed by a breakfast party and then in the evening the celebrations really begin, with dance shows, DJs and, of course, plenty of delicious food.”

The day is a double celebration for the children as their summer camp comes to a close and they will have a performance prepared for the evening.

“We are tremendously lucky as we have great support from both the Indian ambassador to Bahrain, who we view as our patron, and from the Ministry of Human Rights and Social Development,” Vijay says. “The Indian Embassy will also hoist a flag to mark the Independence Day, but slightly later than us at 7am.”

Other events planned for the year include a pool party in September, a beauty pageant, Diwali celebrations and an indoor games tournament in November and both Bahrain National Day and Christmas in December.

E Visit www.indianclubbahrain.com.

Worldly Cinema Spend an evenings at the Bahrain Cinema Club every Wednesday throughout August, where an entirely different film will be screened each week.

First up is the Iranian A Moment of Innocence, followed by American drama Regret to Inform. Russian/ German Mother and Son is a story of love and patience and the multicultural Half Moon sees an Iranian Kurdish musician embark on an arduous journey to play at a concert. Finally American film The Woodsman, showing a child molester trying to start a new life after years in prison.

E Call 39 682-323.

happeningskidsteens When? August 1-November 10 | Event? Junior golf tournament | Venue? Royal Golf Club

Competitive Instincts Get your kids down for a fun game of golf at one of the best Wee Monty Courses in town.

The Royal Golf Club (RGC) is holding its first-ever evening golf league tournament for juniors. The Viva Juniors Saturday Series is a great platform for young golfers to brush up on their skills, meet new friends and enjoy the great outdoors.

Held every Saturday at 7pm, the series is divided into under 12s, under 16s and under 21s age categories. The top two players in each age category are allocated points; at the end of the series, the players with the highest points in each category will win a smart phone.

“We’ve actually been very impressed with the standard of golf from our younger members,” says Cormac Flanery from the club’s golf events team. We have had fantastic scores in every category and many members would be envious of the winning score each week.”

Cormac explains that with each game played, the juniors are improving and also encouraging other kids to join in the sport.

Tournaments are also a great way for kids who want to take their golfing to another level to become accustomed with

40 August 2012 BTM

playing competitively at a younger age. RGC aims to introduce the juniors to the rules and etiquette of the game and also give them the opportunity to test themselves against one another.

“Sports are imperative for kids in their formative years. It helps them learn motor skills, become fit and promotes a healthy lifestyle in later life. I think golf in particular will teach kids important life skills such as honesty, courtesy, patience and self discipline,” adds Cormac, who has been with RGC for eight months and was previously teaching professionally at Killarney Golf and Fishing Club in Ireland.

The sport has developed leaps and bounds in a relatively short time in the Kingdom; with three golf clubs in the country and more and more people taking up the game. “We have a high percentage of low handicap players at the club and this includes many Bahraini players. With a thriving junior membership the future of the game is looking bright,” says Cormac.

The club is hosting a number of sporting events during Ramadan. For a day to enjoy with the entire family, ever Saturday is Wee Monty Family Day where kids can play for free.

E Call 17 750-777.

A Fantasy World Keep your kids entertained this Ramadan with Seef Mall’s Fantasy Challenge campaign. The mall will be bringing kids a world of dragons, genies and powerpacked activities like monster wrestling, bungee jumping, archery and much more.

To make sure the entire family gets to participate, a special raffle draw will be held. Spend as little as BD20 for a chance to play and win in the Crystal Dome where you can get yourself a brand new Chevrolet Tahoe.

happeningssportsrecreation When? September 2012-June 2013 | Event? Cricket tournaments | Venue? Various venues

Part of the committee

Don’t Be Caught Out! Alison Coldridge

The Swing of Things

India’s national sport is booming in the Kingdom; cricket has proven to be an unstoppable force with a consistent surge of new recruits and tournaments.

As the Kingdom’s largest tournament in terms of number of teams involved and the number of matches played on a single day, the Bahrain Cricket League (BCL) is no small sporting venture. Players aged from 13 to 60 and of all nationalities join forces to play this popular game on a regular basis.

It’s a lot of work for the 10-man voluntary committee, but it’s a task they all enjoy says sports secretary Babar Hussain; “Last year the league celebrated 30 years of existence, which was a huge mark of achievement for us. We also built our own website, rule book and set up an umpiring workshop,” he says.

The league organises seven tournaments a year, and next month the BCL will begin its new season with two league tournaments.

“The T20 format tournaments are for the premier league (the top 24 teams of the BCL) and a diamond league for the remainder,” he explains.

An astonishing 18-20 matches will be played every Friday, divided into morning and afternoon sessions. The teams will be involved continuously with one Friday free per month. The BCL currently has seven grounds reserved; matted pitches in Busaiteen and Riffa, as well as at the Safreh public security and Awali’s Bapco grounds.

The prizes for each tournament include trophies and cash prizes. There are also individual prizes for the top performers, including ‘man of the match’ for both semi-final and final

42 August 2012 BTM

stages, ‘best batsman’, ‘best bowler’, ‘best fielder’, ‘best allrounder’, ‘century scorer’ and those who take five wicket hauls in a singles match.

“Anyone can come to watch or play; we extend a warm welcome to any player of any nationality. Whether you are looking for exercise, fun, training or even simply want to meet new people, then come along and get involved,” Babar encourages.

The committee is expecting an increase of teams for the new season and is contemplating the introduction of new tournaments.

“Last season we had 48 teams playing and we expect as many as 54 this time round. We may hold three separate additional tournaments, for 18 teams each,” Baber outlines.

The BCL seems very passionate about the league and plans to evolve it further over the upcoming years.

“Next year we are planning to introduce an independent panel of umpire. Currently umpiring duty is entrusted to members of teams on a rotation basis,” he adds. “We have many ambitious plans which could be implemented with financial sponsorship.”

E Call 36 005-693 or visit www.bclcricket.com.

The Bahrain Tennis Club has been hosting various programmes and competitions throughout Ramadan, allowing tennis fans to get involved or simply to watch.

A junior training programme is ongoing until August 8, open for children aged between six and 14. Sessions take place nightly between 7pm and 9pm and are divided into beginners, intermediate and advanced players.

Simultaneously, the club is running its annual Ramadan tournaments for both amateur and professional adult players to take part in. Two competitions are involved; the Late Y K Almoayyed Doubles Championship and the Late Majed Al Zayani Super Doubles Championship.

E Call 17 729-561.

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Y.K. Almoayyed Sports Editions Car Launch The management of Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons Automotive Group held an exclusive launch event of the Sports Editions models for their Nissan, Ford, Renault & Infiniti brands. The event was held at the Nissan Showroom in Sitra last month

Declan McCluskey

Infinity G Convertible

Nissan 370 Z

Declan McCluskey with the team

Ashfaque, Ian & Fuad

Rohit, Gurdeep, Tariq & A. Wahid

Faisal, Sethu, Ashfaque & Dharmesh

44 August 2012 BTM

Azas & Khadija

Peter, Ian & Rohit

Benoy, Krishna, Saji, Faisal, Peter & Hussain

Ford Mustang GT Sport

Esky & Sethu

Peter & Ali

Renault Megane & the Renault Clio Sport

Seby & Shajith

Natalia & Hussain

Marise & David

bystanderthismonth

Lost Paradise Of Dilmun Dragon & Lion Show As part of the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Summer Festival, the waterpark hosted the spectacular and original Dragon & Lion dance troupe straight from China. HE Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador and the members of the media were treated to a preview of this spectacle of dance & colour HE Li Chen & Isa

Ismail, Juliana & Parna

Reem with some members of the media

Viji, Anshita, Ashok & Ayush with a character from the show

Jose & Cynthia

Eric

Christine

Dancers perform at the show

Ramadan Tent Launched At Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa hosted a reception to mark the launch of its Ramadan Tent (Layali Al Zallaq) prior to the advent of the Holy Month. The reception was held at the hotel's Saraya Restaurant

Ahmed & Bin Khalil

Faisal & Amir

46 August 2012 BTM

Bert Plas

Jassim Al Zayani & Fulya

Jassim & Abdulrahman

Nicola & Elie

Charbel, Hussain & Mohammed

Ahmed & Bashar

Ann & Gopal

Ganesan & Mohamed

Debbie

Yasser & Osma

Kamran & Abbas

bystanderthismonth

St Christopher's School Summer Ball St Christopher's Senior School held its annual Summer Ball with a number of students and teachers from the school attending the event. The ball was held at the Gulf Hotel's Conference Centre last month

Mahmood & Jenna

Emma & Alistair

Byron & Nikita

Tamara & Emily

Shayan & Namita

Rachael & Keerthana

Gabby, Sarah & Ellie

Bethany & Bethany

Hanna, Judy & Amira

Reem, Aishwarya & Priyanka

Tamara, Mhairi & Ellen

Ashish, Angad & Younis

Rukmini, Leena, Deepali, Bhavna & Devi

48 August 2012 BTM

Hannah & Alice

Jeremy, Faris & Aditya

Yasmin, Tamara, Andrea & Chelsea

Maytham, Hassan & Mustafa

Leena, Hiba, Mirelle & Nadia

Aditi, Sharif & Ridha

Hassan, Tariq & Kareem

Maryam

Abeer & Mehak

Faris

Nia

businessthismonth

Hala Jamal, second from right,with fellow BBS committee members and His Majesty King Hamad

Engaging Ideas With ongoing challenges women face for gender equality around the world, one society strives for women’s empowerment in our region.

This year sees the 12th anniversary of the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society (BBS), an organisation originating from an idea by Sheikha Lulua Mohammed Al Khalifa, head of the Childcare and Maternity Society. Sixteen prominent Bahraini women brought this to life in 2000, making it the region’s first business association for women.

The society’s objectives were simple, with one principle aim — the advancement of women in the Arab region.

Strengthening of economic relations between businesswomen along with promoting and enhancing their role in business activities were all encompassed under the society’s plans.

“Another initiative is to increase opportunities for Bahraini women; we do this by establishing high level training workshops and courses designed specifically for the female population,” says BBS head of public relations, Dr Hala Jamal.

Through a combination of small steps and some giant leaps, Bahraini women today contribute to the economy like never before. Female lawyers, CEOs, business heads and political figures are making developments all over the country.

In 2001, the society developed the Business Women’s Committee which serves as a permanent assembly in the country’s Chamber of Commerce. A few years later the BBS joined the Council of Arab Business Women where they went Also this month

52 x Conference - 54 x Entrepreneur

on to represent the Kingdom in many global conferences and international forums.

The BBS started a project that gave them global recognition and the full support of her Royal Highness Sheikha Sabeeka Al Khalifa. Women Gateway is a non-profit website launched to create an online community to address women’s issues, reflect their views and promote their causes. The website, which has received three million viewers, now broadcasts in three languages, Arabic, English and French. The project also went on to win national and international awards.

On a global scale, another major feat was the signing of a cooperation protocol between the BBS and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) to build and support Bahraini entrepreneurs.

“In cooperation with UNIDO along with the Organization of Economic Development in Paris, we are planning to hold workshops for entrepreneurs as well as SME business owners in the near future,” continues Hala.

New courses With their recent 12-year anniversary under their belt, the BBS have more reason to celebrate this year during Ramadan, organising a special Ghabga on August 2. Also, look for new workshops the BBS aims to run in September on body language and leadership skills.

E Call 17 721-188.

Green and Aware Environmental enthusiasts can enroll on a course that highlights global environment problems and ways to overcome them. The Sustainable Development and Green Building training workshop, to be held at the Bahrain Society of Engineers from September 2-6, will help participants develop the principles and benefits of green building.

The course will be headed

by Wael Ali Kamel, professor at Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport. During the course you will learn about the ins and outs of green building including environmental laws, water efficiency, energy efficiency and site selection.

E Call 17 727-100.

BTM August 2012 51

businessconference When? September 5, 6, 8, 15, and 24 | Event? Social media conferences and workshops | Venue? InterContinental Regency; BIBF; Alayam Media Center

Time to be Social!

Delve into the world of social media with a month of specifically-created events exploring the heart of the matter. It’s simple stuff and can make a world of difference!

52 August 2012 BTM

If you are still a little uncertain on how Facebook, Twitter, blogging and other forms of social media may help you and your business, then it’s high time you joined the 21st century!

A huge proportion of companies today are reaping the rewards of utilising such tools, by spreading news, awareness and ideas instantly online.

A first-of-its-kind forum including conference, seminar and set of workshops planned for next month will teach you how to build a strong media presence that will serve as a powerful branding tool for both yourself and your business. The events are organised by Takatof for Events & Legend Promotion, partnership with the Bahrain eGovernment Authority and in association with eHulool.com.

As a marketing professional you are tasked with finding ways to improve your organisation’s social programme, to deliver bottom line results. As an agency professional you need to find ways to help your clients determine the best path forward.

The Social Media Masters conference and workshops series brings advanced insights from true social media masters to help you further your own mastery of social media for enterprise-level marketing and communications, with an emphasis on engagement and execution.

The event, crafted by the Social Media Club of Bahrain (SMC), will arm you with the tools, insight and knowledge you

require to improve the success of your social programmes to help accomplish your business goals. The speakers will lead you through advanced strategies, insights and tactics to enable your organisation to modernise your marketing with social media.

“The Social Media Masters Forum event series will bring and industry experts and leaders to the Middle East to share advanced-level strategies and tactics to help business professionals build upon their use of social media and expand their marketing and communication activities,” says Ali Sabkar, SMC Bahrain president.

The forum and seminar are on September 5 and 6 respectively, with the latter offering five sessions outlining there different areas of social media.

Two days later, on September 8, the first workshop will be held, and will include best practice ideas for the use of Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. September 15 will focus on the art of blogging and the final workshop, on September 24, will be a social media camp to provide an interactive environment with expert speakers, live collaboration and remote attendance.

So go ahead and register to discover a DIY way to greatly improve your business’s name, revenue and image.

E Visit www.socialmediamasters.me.

businessentrepreneur

Najat and Ahmed

Pet Food Conundrum Simi Kamboj The images on the can look tempting and the labels promise ‘gourmet’; but who really knows what we’re feeding our pets?

54 August 2012 BTM

Most successful business ideas seek to address a need or a problem. For Ahmed Al Sharaf, the idea stemmed from loss.

Tunica was a top notch showdog he had brought from France.

At seven, the Doberman developed a cancerous tumour that grew out of control within weeks; she died on the vet’s surgery table.

It was months before Ahmed could pass by his vet’s office again. Soon, he launched a quest for answers into Tunica’s illness. “Dogs are not exposed to many health risks inside a house or in a garden. I realised the exposure came mainly from food,” he says.

What Ahmed says he eventually discovered will come as chilling information to any animal lover.

“The pet food industry is a US$11 billion business worldwide; but, unregulated operations in countries such as China mean pets can be fed processed garbage that would otherwise end up in a landfill,” he says.

“This includes unwanted meats from sources that could include road kill, rotten meat from supermarkets, dead and diseased farm animals and even euthanised pets from vet clinics. The last charge was established by a group which found sodium pentobarbital in processed dogfood; the chemical is commonly used in commercial animal euthanasia injections.”

Taking a leap of faith in 2010, Ahmed quit his job with a leading telecom company to launch his own pet food brand, Tails, with business partner Najat. He’d been making pet food at home for months and found his dogs responding well to the changed diet.

Having consulted nutritionists in the United States and Australia before setting the menu, Najat believes they provide a balanced diet for pets, be it dogs or cats. Dog meals involve processing boiled chicken or beef with cereals and vegetables such as broccoli, pumpkin, carrots, apples and green peppers to add essential vitamins and amino acids. Also available are

gluten-free meals where grain is substituted with sweet potatoes. Cat food has different components as they are "obligate carnivores" and, therefore, do not require carbohydrates.

“All our meals are preservative- and chemical-free and keep for nine months in a freezer. We’re presently in talks with leading supermarket chains in Bahrain for distribution tie-ups,” she says.

Operating primarily through home delivery at present, the couple realise they need to build the brand further if they are to expand outside Bahrain.

“We’re in the process of trade-marking the brand. With interest from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait, we’re working on the details now and hope to start exports in early 2013,” says Ahmed.

The couple can often be seen at the weekend markets on Amwaj Islands and at Durrat Al Bahrain; they have also participated in the animal production show and the GCC Future Entrepreneurs Forum to heighten the brand’s visibility. “We’re also active on the social media scene, uploading events and promotions on Facebook and Twitter on a regular basis,” says Najat, who handles customer relations.

A seasoned clicker trainer (animal behaviourist), Ahmed also offers counselling and training to pet owners, besides disseminating articles on pet care.

xxxxx Unregulated operations mean pets can be fed processed garbage that would otherwise end up in a landfill

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Warbler Friday Brunch The Warbler Friday Brunch, popularly known as the Frunch had renowned comedy magician Phil Fenton to entertain guests last month. The Frunch event offers an array of fresh seafood, live cooking, free pool table use and more

Rana, Phil Fenton & Justin

Larry, Heidie & Elba

Jihan, Omnia, Sief, Mohammed & Nizar

Rana, Shantharam Shetty & Adithya

Thomas, Ramesh, Rajiv, Sudha, Kumar & Mani

Kevin & Phil

Shewta, Mary, Rebecca, Padma, Manjula, Apurwa & Nirmala

Haifa, Maya, Nada, Samar & Shams

Cathy & Dean

Bennigan's Thank Staff Bahrain Family Leisure Company held a special event to extend its gratitude to all the staff who participated in the Food and Hospitality Expo 2012. BFLC was the official cater who managed the food court in the Expo. Bennigan's Bahrain also honoured team members on its 1st quarter performance in 2012, which earned Bennigan's Bahrain the top ranking around the world.

The two events were held at Bennigan's Juffair last month

Nigesh, Paul, Nawal, Cynthia & Nelson

Sathyan & Paul

Joyce, Daniel & Kate

Bennigan's staff with their certificates

56 August 2012 BTM

Berna & Renjith

Paul & Joey

Hassan & Nelson

British Housewife Loses 16.5 kg and Stops Using Her Inhaler!

“Thank you so much DreamBody Centre for changing my life for the better.”

I

“ wasn’t in a happy place with myself and my weight. After the Summer holidays my Husband joined Dreambody Centre (DBC) and I went along with him to have a look. I was offered a 3 week free trial, wow I thought session I loved the workout and knew it would work for me.

Michelle Larkin lost 16.5 kg and 18.5 inches of fat from her body at the DreamBody Centre.

In January 2010 my doctor put me on an inhaler which I had to use each morning and night. When I went to see my Doctor after about 2 months at DBC he immediately noticed I had lost weight. This made me feel great as he had previously advised me to start exercising and to make things even better he also told me I no longer needed to use my inhaler. I was delighted at the good news and knew this was a result of going to DBC.

The Dream Body Centre is a unique place where you can literally get your “Dream Body” in just 23 minutes, 3 times per week.

It is not a diet centre or clinic. You lose fat and tone muscle by training on specially designed circuit training equipment. This is called The DBC Guaranteed 23 Minute Body Transformation Process. This process will not put your health at risk, and has no harmful side effects. It consists of an effective fat burning process that works fast.

DBC is the best gym I have been to in Bahrain, I have tried many other gyms over the past few years but did not get the results I achieved at DBC in such a short period of time.

Just like Michelle, you can get your DreamBody too!

DreamBody Centre works, and how it can transform your body, call 17 613 352 now to activate your 7-day FREE trial.

DBC has become part of my daily routine and I couldn’t imagine my life in Bahrain without it.

Thank you so much DBC for changing my life for the better. I am on the right road now and destination. I am looking so forward to that day, I can see it in the distance and cannot wait to reach it.”

- Michelle Larkin

www.DreamBodyCentre.com This website contains a FREE weight loss report entitled “Body Fat Secrets Exposed.” Visit today.

As seen on the “Hala Bahrain” show on Bahrain TV.

FREE

Call now!

7-Day Trial 17 582 982

bystanderthismonth

Zia Ur Rahman Birthday Party Zia Ur Rahman and his daughter celebrated their birthday's with family & friends at the Al Bander Hotel & Resort

Famida, Zia, Rizwan, Zuni, Rajita & Sam

Zia, Famida, Mishal & Maryam

Ashrita & Switha

Nora-Cassandra, Ali, Bob & Suzanne

Maryam, Jane & Iida

Lalith & Kumar

Famida, Komal, Pawan & Gopi

Maria & Myrna

Shakawat & Sharmeen

Bader & Mumu

Zainab Mansoor Birthday Party Zainab Mansoor, daughter of Shabana & Mohammed Mansoor, Executive Vice President, Al Namal Group, celebrated her birthday with family and friends at the Diva Hotel in Juffair

Birthday girl Zainab

Shabana & Mohammed with Mr & Mrs Paresh Bhatia

Himanshu & Sejal Gandhi with Shabana, Mohammed & Zainab Mansoor

Liju, Ranjit, Mohammed & Shirin

Vijay Naik & Kumar

Ashalatha Shetty

Shashikala

Al Namal Hosts Farewell Party The Al Namal Group bid farewell to two of its employees - John D. Almeida, after 23 years with the group & Edakadavath Raghuthaman after 18 years with the group.

The party was attended by Varghese Kurian, chairman, Al Namal Group

58 August 2012 BTM

Mr & Mrs John D. Almeida receive a memento from Varghese Kurian

John D. Almeida & Varghese Kurian with staff of Al Namal Group

bystanderthismonth

Subaru BRZ Launch The Subaru distributor in Bahrain, Motorcity, launched the new Subaru BRZ sportscar during an event at Bahrain City Centre. Motorcity and Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo attended the event along with members of the media and a number of guests

Sayed, Motor City CEO Bashar Darkazalli, Hani, Sunil & Vishal

The all-new Subaru BRZ

Ameer, Agnelo, Brett & John

Randa & Bashar

Hussain & Ahmed

Bashar poses with the Subaru BRZ

Sunil

Randa & Mayukh

Crowne Plaza Brunch The Friday Brunch at the Crowne Plaza's Harvesters, La Mosaique & Cappuccino was as usual well attended

Eric

Mikee & Helen

Daniel & Jasmine

Robert

Brendon, Marivic & Subhash

Kate & Lucy

Eric & Olivia

Tania & Sola

Phil & Deborah

Nathalie & Nadia

Pascal & Ashraf

Cheryl, Ian & Whitney

Michael, Chris & Richie

60 August 2012 BTM

bystanderthismonth

Tanisha's 1st Birthday Party Kesore Kumar & Deepa Kesore hosted a party to celebrate the 1st birthday of their daughter Tanisha at Majestic Resort in Juffair

Deepa, Siddharth, Tanisha & Kesore

Marion, Simone, Vania & Keagan

Ihab, Nader, Shahad & Noor

Sanjeev, Mayukh & Abhitab

Savio, Samara, Breanna & Merlin

Jassim & Prettzel

Kesore, Tahir, Mohamed & Naveed

Tomacita, Delrine & Amy

Paul & Melissa

Harish & Meena

Trisha's Birthday Party Trisha, daughter of Ryan & Badz celebrated her birthday with family & friends at Jasmi's in Hoora

Ryan, Trisha & Badz

Trisha & Kimberly

Marian & Edwin Ryan, Rhoda & Roni

Camille & Solina

Trisha wih family & friends

62 August 2012 BTM

Aslika, Trisha & Bridget

indiaindependence

A Special Supplement Commemorating India's 66th Independence Day

India In Bahrain BTM August 2012 63

PROUD TO CELEBRATE THE GLORY OF INDIA WITH YOU. WISHING ALL INDIANS A HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!

Where everybody shops !!!

Lulu Centre Tel : 17 250 334 ♦ Juffair : 17 826 884 ♦ Muharraq : 17 343 266 ♦ Hamad Town : 17 412 563 ♦ Salmaniya Tel : 17 252 624

The team Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Publishing Director David M. Robertson Editorial queries: editor@redhousemarketing.com Editorial Consultant Dr. Paul Balles Assistant Editors Alison Coldridge Elma Bartholomew

contents

Bahrain This Month • India INDEPENDENCE • AUGUST 2012

66

On a High Note

38

A Second Home

69

Business Leaders

Staff Writer Maryam Toorani

Relations between Bahrain and India continue to move forward strongly, explains Dr Mohan Kumar, the Indian ambassador to the Kingdom.

Contributors James Claire (dining) Bystander Editor Anil Ravi Shankar Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Dalal Al-Sabbagh, Romeo San Miguel, Rodolfo A. Reyes Jr. Staff Photographers Shankar Kunhambu, Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Sales Manager Mayukh Majumdar Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Shani Davel Circulation Manager Fawaz Al Balooshi Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Rafeeq Mohammed, Gopal Arul Kumar, Epegenio Tempra Jr. Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

Probably the largest expatriate social club in Bahrain, the Indian Club of Bahrain offers a very personal touch, says Vijay Bhatia, the club president.

You don’t have to look far in the Kingdom to find a business with strong Indian leadership; Al Namal and Bramco Group are testament to this.

71

Money Matters

73

Servicing Our Needs

75

Indian Cuisine

Sending hard-earned income back to families is big business; Ahli United Bank, Bahrain Financing Company and the State Bank of India ensure the process is hassle-free.

Published monthly by

Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P.O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place St., Helier Jersey JE48JJ, Channel Islands, U.K.

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

• Views expressed in this magazine by journalists

and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month.

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

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

Whether it is running a hotel, offering medical care or educating our children, the likes of the Ramee Group, KIMS and Al Noor International School are at hand.

This ubiquitous cuisine knows no boundaries and the many flavours of India are all represented on the local restaurant scene, from Akbar to Lanterns and from The Yellow Chilli to Rendezous.

commercial inde x Ahli United Bank............................................................ 78 Al Namal & VKL Group.................................................. 69 Al Noor International School......................................... 81 Bahrain Air....................................................................... 70 Bahrain Cinema Company............................................. 81 Bahrain Financing Company.......................................... 72 Bramco Group................................................................ 68 Kims Bahrain Medical Centre....................................... 73

Lanterns Restaurant...................................................... 79 Lulu Hypermarket.......................................................... 67 Megamart...................................................................... 64 Nass Group....................................................................... 77 Ramada Palace Hotel.................................................... 75 Ramee Group of Hotels................................................. 81 State Bank of India........................................................ 71 The Yellow Chilli............................................................ 76

India In Bahrain BTM August 2012 65

indiaindependence

H.E. Dr Mohan Kumar

On a High Note Simi Kamboj India and Bahrain are no strangers to each other; but 2012 may well be remembered as the year when relations touched new highs.

Halfway through his three-year term in Bahrain, there’s a sense of contentment about His Excellency Dr Mohan Kumar.

The Indian ambassador to Bahrain is happy that he’s been able to fulfill the pledges he made when taking up assignment in the Kingdom.

“I’d wanted frequent high level exchanges including political visits between the two sides, which we’ve managed to do,” he says. “We had sought to boost cultural exchange between Bahrainis and the Indian community here, and we’ve achieved that to an extent with a series of Irresistible India events in Bahrain.”

The third undertaking and perhaps his most ambitious, is finally taking shape in the form of the new Indian Embassy building in Seef. “Our application for a new building has been made to the local municipal council. We’re now awaiting their clearance and hope to start work this year,” he notes.

The Crown Prince’s high profile visit to New Delhi and Mumbai along with a business delegation in June this year has been hailed as a landmark event. The two sides signed agreements in sectors such as ICT and agreed to share information on taxes.

“The Indian leadership thanked the Crown Prince for ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community in Bahrain.

Peace and stability in Bahrain and the Gulf region is crucial to us; we cannot overemphasise the importance of the six million Indian nationals in the GCC region.”

For Bahrain, the worst is already over, Dr Kumar believes.

Bilateral trade between the two sides stood at US$1.8 billion in 2011, of which oil imports alone accounted for US$1 billion.

A lot more can be accomplished on the trade and investment front, he believes, given the immense goodwill on both sides.

66 August 2012 BTM India In Bahrain

“The Crown Prince told Indian business leaders not to be misled by the size of the Bahrain market. Investors in Bahrain are a mere 40 minutes away from Saudi Arabia, which accounts for about 50 per cent of the GCC market,” he says.

Bahraini investors tend to get discouraged by India’s sheer size, but they’d do well to focus on a specific region rather than the entire Indian market, he feels.

In its 66th year of independence, India is also facing some daunting economic challenges. Riddled by inflation and low industrial output, the Indian economy has grown at the slowest pace ever in the past nine years. To skeptics who are questioning the growth story this year, Dr Kumar says it is naive to expect uninterrupted growth over several decades in any economy.

“The first generation of reforms is always easy; it’s now 20 years since the economy was opened up in 1991. The second round won’t be easy and since we are a democracy, decisions can be taken only after arriving at a political consensus,” he notes.

On a broader level, India’s economy has been impacted by a combination of factors, not least of which is the global economic slowdown and the Eurozone crisis, from which the country cannot remain completely insulated, he believes.

xxxxx The second round of reforms won’t be easy since decisions can be taken only after arriving at a political consensus

indiaindependence BRAMCO GROUP

A Link Set in Stone One Bahraini company has forged a strong, and long-standing trade tie with India ensuring both countries have improved employment and business.

The story of Bramco, one of the largest and most professional mining, earth-moving and industrial supplies companies headquartered in Bahrain, is closely intertwined with the narrative of Bahrain’s progress.

Established in 1977, Bramco played a major role in the building of the King Fahad Causeway between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. It has since steadily expanded its business portfolio to include mining, natural stone sourcing and design, design and installation of glass reinforced concrete, shipping and scrap metal and aluminium downstream business among others.

The company’s list of prestigious projects and innovations is long and is remarkable for the way in which it has raised the bar for Indian firms in Bahrain.

“I’m very proud of how Bramco has written a new chapter in Indo-Bahraini corporate relations,” says chairman and managing director, Vinay Dewan. “We were pioneers in the regional mining and quarrying sector and I think Bramco added heft to Indo-Bahraini economic relations because of our manufacturing and industrial sector involvement,” he continues.

Dewan sees Bramco not just as a Bahrain-based company but as a catalyst in the very important management of technology transfer between Bahrain and India and other countries as well. The company employs nearly 1,200 workers in Bahrain and about 3,000 around the world.

The company’s projects include stonework design and installation for the flooring, the lifts and lobby areas of the showpiece Terminal 3 of New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and the exterior finish of the super-luxurious Leela Hotel in Delhi and Chennai.

68 August 2012 BTM India In Bahrain

AL NAMAL GROUP

Beyond the Horizon When he set foot in Bahrain in 1986, little did he dream of building a business empire created by the subsequent construction and real estate development boom on the island.

Varghese Kurian

An enterprising honcho, Varghese Kurian today holds the reins as managing director of the Al Namal Group of Companies, designed to take Bahrain into an era of new age development.

A visionary, this ebullient personality came to Bahrain armed with a civil engineering degree and with some experience from a family-owned construction business. Having worked with a construction company until 1992, Kurian mapped out his success by establishing his own company.

What started as a construction company eventually mushroomed into a gargantuan network hosting industrial activities in addition to property and real estate. The business is also segmented into interior designing, dredging, trading and the hospitality industry.

“The steps taken by the government and the ruling family to allow free companies and organisations to flourish without interference has considerably enhanced the business reputation of Bahrain. Deals such as the FTA with the US have only added to the attractiveness of the Kingdom for both local and overseas investors,” he notes.

Two decades is an aeon in this business. Together with his enviable team of experts, the developers will offer Bahrain a five-star hotel along with residential apartments, two 43-storey towers in Juffair and two malls in Al A’ali and Hidd.

Kurian also plans on including establishing local branches of leading Indian international schools and universities in the Kingdom, as well as hospitals and other industries.

“I believe that every man who has a vision must work towards realising it. This feat is possible only through hard work and perseverance,” Kurian adds. E Call 17 251-131.

India In Bahrain BTM August 2012 69

indiaindependence BAHRAIN AIR

Going the Extra Mile

The Kingdom’s private national carrier wishes to congratulate the Indian community in Bahrain on its Indian Independence Day this month.

Over the last few years, Bahrain Air has shown a great understanding of the important friendly bond between India and the Kingdom. The airline has shown constant determination to elevate this relationship to a new and higher horizon, with a current standing of 21 flights in operation to the Indian SubContinent per week. Passengers can fly directly from Bahrain to Cochin, Calicut, Mumbai and Trivandrum and there are plans to increase these flights’ frequency in the near future.

Bahrain’s supportive leadership, lucrative market and dynamic profile have always been attractive to the Indian community. Likewise, India’s rich ethnic, linguistic, religious and cultural diversity has attracted the Bahraini community; this has further played a solidifying role in strengthening the Indo-Bahrain relationship.

Bahrain Air has established itself as a prominent brand in the intensely competitive Indo-Gulf sector for its service and quality. The carrier is committed to launch more stations as part of an expansion plan to serve exciting business and leisure cities around the region. The airline is an excellent choice for passengers who do not want to compromise on service, but want value for money travel. Value addition for the customers will always be an utmost priority for Bahrain Air as per its slogan, which says it all — Affordable Fare …..Genuine Care.

E Visit www.bahrainair.net.

70 August 2012 BTM India In Bahrain

STATE BANK OF INDIA

Flexible Banking

A one-stop shop for all your financial needs, this bank offers both corporate and retail banking for locals and NRIs alike.

The State Bank of India (SBI) has now completed five years of retail operations in Bahrain, establishing itself as a primary institution for the financial needs of corporate as well as individual customers. Now expanding, it has recently opened a new branch in Riffa and is also poised to open a limited service centre in Bab Al Bahrain.

The corporate banking section caters to all types of financing such as term loans, working capital loans and more. The bank’s trade finance service has picked up rapidly due to the quality and pace of delivery of services in relation to documentary credit.

SBI follows a centralised approach and maintains a single point of contact for customer interaction, providing clientspecific solutions, which ensure that it acts as a partner in growth rather than just a financier.

The retail banking unit offers a full suite of products for the needs of individual customers including current accounts, SB accounts, lockers as well as auto and personal loans.

Corporate clients will find that salary accounts for employees can also be opened. For your insurance needs, SBI offers products from LIC Intl as well as selected approved mutual funds from SBI Mutual Funds.

The NRI Service Desk assists NRI and PIO customers with their banking needs in India and Bahrain for deposits, loans, and investments. E Call 17 548-033.

Best Compliments

From India s Largest Bank www.sbi-bh.com

Auto Loans/ Personal Loans Attractive interest rates on fixed deposits Saving Bank accounts & Salary accounts Current accounts for Corporates & Individuals

MANAMA 60, Government Avenue Near British Embassy Phone: 17548033 Fax: 17531029 Email: sbifcb@batelco.com.bh

EAST RIFFA Bukhawara Market Near Mena Telecom Phone: 17001508 Fax: 17490534 Email: sbiriffa@batelco.com.bh

REGIONAL CENTRE & WHOLESALE BRANCH Flat No: 901, 9th Floor, GB Corp Tower, Bldg. 1411, Road 4326, Block 346 Sea Front, Bahrain Financial Harbour District, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel. 17505161, 17505168 Fax No: 17224692 Email:sbinri@batelco.com.bh

Corporate Loans LCs/BGs Locker facility available Free ATM cum Debit Card

SPAC

Retail Branch, Kingdom of Bahrain P O BOX: 10763, Manama, 306, Bahrain

Free Internet Banking Facility S UR m HO 0 p m G 0 . p N KI to 1 .00 day 7 s OR W 0 am to Thur 8.0 0 pmy to 4.0 nda Su

India In Bahrain BTM August 2012 71

indiaindependence BAHRAIN FINANCING COMPANY

Easy Financing Are you looking for a fuss-free way to transfer money to another country but don’t want to bother with the hassle of going to a bank?

Bahrain Financing Company (BFC) has been offering foreign currency exchange solutions and money transfer services to the Kingdom for over 95 years. With a trusted reputation for providing safe, fast international remittances, BFC has become the preferred choice when sending money to loved ones back home.

Now, you can use ‘Smart Money’ as an easy, and free, means to transfer currency, which is fast, safe, convenient and only requires a one-time registration process to get started. The company’s online money transfer service, launched in 2011, enables customers to send money from their own home or workplace using Mastercard or Visa debit cards.

Available to all BFC customers, it has become the cheaper alternative to sending money through regular banks. You can either register online or visit any BFC branch. To complete the registration you will need to provide a valid piece of identification and, once the registration has taken place, login details will be sent by email to begin making transfers immediately.

If safety is an issue, rest assured that ‘Smart Money’ is secured by VeriSign, the trusted provider of Internet infrastructure services for the networked world. VeriSign ensures that financial transactions processed through the system are highly secure with customer information kept confidential at every stage.

The service also offers full transactional history of remittances and status updates on all services 24-hours, seven days a week.

E Call 17 228-888 or visit www.bfcsmartmoney.com

Wishing all Indians a Happy Independence Day! BFC wishes all Indian customers a very happy Independence Day. BFC has over 18,500 cash payout locations in India including 7 new BFC Forex branches. In addition, BFC has a beneficiary call back service and a toll-free customer services centre, allowing us to provide you with safe and reliable money transfer services, as well as great rates and customer service. BFC always strives to make your life easier, so thank you for your continued custom and support.

Call 17228888 or visit bfc.com.bh for more info. Toll-free customer service in India 1800 103 3006.

72 August 2012 BTM India In Bahrain

KIMS BAHRAIN MEDICAL CENTRE

Maintaining Health Don’t let the sweet treats of Ramadan dining tempt you too often; keep your health in check with assistance from one of the Kingdom’s best medical facilities.

KIMS Bahrain Medical Centre (KBMC), a multi-specialty medical centre situated in Umm Al Hassam, is the Bahrain branch of Kerala Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) India.

Equipped with a full-fledged laboratory, ultrasound, X-ray, ECG, physiotherapy unit, pharmacy and dental departments, the centre is open from 7am to 11pm. KIMS is the first medical centre in the GCC to become accredited by the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards International (ACHSI). Comprehensive and reliable preventive health packages are available to suit the various requirements of all family members.

Starting their services in July 2004, KIMS became the first health care venture of the KIMS group in the GCC and has since then stood as a true relationship between India and Bahrain.

The centre has enjoyed much success with local and international patients, in part due to its affordability for both Bahrainis and expatriates. The group’s second venture in the Kingdom is the Royal Bahrain Hospital in Salmaniya.

For the Ramadan month, the centre wants to ensure adequate health and nutrition during the hot summer month of fasting by announcing a new initiative. “We at KIMS are very proud to have started the Ramadan Health Checkup Package to ensure health during the holy month,” says executive director, Boban Idiculla. “The package includes blood sugar, electrolytes, blood routine, urine routine and general physician consultations.”

E Call 17 822-123, 17 740-485 or visit Facebook.com/kimsbahrain or twitter.com/ kimsbahrain or www.kimsbh.com or email: kimsbhrn@batelco.com.bh

India In Bahrain BTM August 2012 73

bystanderthismonth

Lulu Hypermarket Walkathon A number of people attended a 'Autism Awareness Walkathon' at Lulu Hypermarket in Ramli Mall in support of autism. The event was held under the patronage of Member of Parliament Ahmed Al Sa'ati.

Participants also had an opportunity to win various prizes

Razan, Yasmin, Ahmed Al Sa'ati & Adnan

Mohammed, Sayed & Ali

Anna, Amira, Liza, Nasser, Zahra'a, Jennah & Amal

Vineet, Ragul, Adnan, Amir & Mohammed

Huda, Khadeeja, Abdulla, Abdulrahman & Ahmed

Sayed, Adel, Ammar & Khaya

Jawaher, Bashayer, Zahra'a & Amal

Navya's 1st Birthday Party Sachin & Anita Singh hosted a party to celebrate the 1st birthday of their daughter Navya at the Diva Hotel in Juffair Sachin, Anita, Navya & Suhani

Navya cuts her cake

Ramya

Santosh, Navya & Divya

Deepak, Manishka & Preeti

Ranjit & Navya

Swati & Satyajit

Divya, Aproova & Mitu

74 August 2012 BTM

Nidhi

Varun & Mansi

Imran & Sonar

Preeti, Anita, Divya & Samina

indiaindependence RAMADA PALACE HOTEL

Taste of India

Feast your eyes on a medley of spices that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you wanting for more, available at this four-star hotel.

Experience the art, spices and colours of India at Ramada Palace Hotel. This four-star hotel, part of the International Ramada Group, invites you to dine at Akbar Indian Restaurant.

Akbar, the royal taste of India, offers a luscious array of traditional North Indian cuisines from which to choose. Chef Yunus, who hails from Delhi, brings 22 years of experience to Akbar’s kitchen. His menu includes a wide variety of tandoori kebab, dum pukht biryani, dal makhni dumdar and so much more to delight the senses.

The décor and accompanying menu choices lend an air of authenticity to this enchanting restaurant. The luxurious ambience of the venue is only heightened by the nightly entertainment available. Immerse yourself in the sounds of India through melodious gazals and songs.

Akbar is open daily from 12 noon to 4pm and from 7pm to 1am. Order your favourite dishes from the à-la-carte menu, which offers everything from scrumptious starters to delectable desserts. Guests can also choose to enjoy a vast selection of Indian specialties at the restaurant’s dinner buffet every Saturday or lunch buffet every Friday, both of which are priced at BD4.5++.

Step through the doors of Akbar and find yourself completely surrounded by the exotic scents, sounds and flavours of India. Live music, beautiful décor and tasty dishes will make you feel as though you’re truly dining in the land of silk and spices.

E Call 17 296-660.

Akbar Brings back the royal taste to Bahrain Friday Special Lunch Buffet BD 4.5++ aayy rryydd

Li ve Ghazals E ve

leave the rest to us

SM

Tel: +973 17296660 email:info@ramadapalacehotel.com www.ramadapalacehotel.com India In Bahrain BTM August 2012 75

indiaindependence THE YELLOW CHILLI

Aromatic Cuisine

If you are craving authentic Indian cuisine, then this is definitely the dining destination for you.

Do delicious aromas, vibrant colours and tangy spices enchant you? Please all your senses by heading to The Yellow Chilli. The first of its kind in the Middle East, this venue offers traditional food in a modern and inviting location that is easily accessible.

This Ramadan, don’t let yourself be stressed over what to order. Instead, take advantage of The Yellow Chilli’s all-time favourite buffet, which has now been revitalised with a special Iftar extension. You’ll find a varied assortment of dishes, all of which are prepared daily to ensure freshness and taste. The price of the buffet is BD4.200 for adults and BD2.100 for kids.

From 8pm onwards, The Yellow Chilli also offers an à la carte menu for you to choose from. The mastermind of it all, celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, presents signature dishes which are bound to please any palate. Try his pashtooni chana tikki, a spiced kabab served with garlic yoghurt and chutney, which is simply bursting with flavour. If your sweet tooth needs satisfying, then indulge in gulab-e-gulkand; these traditional deep-fried gulab jamuns are served with sugar syrup.

For great Indian food, visit The Yellow Chilli on the first floor of Seef Mall, opposite Seef Cineplex 2. Ramadan hours are Sunday through Wednesday from 6pm to 1am and Thursday through Saturday 6pm to 2am.

E Call 17 580-480.

76 August 2012 BTM India In Bahrain

bystanderthismonth

Young Goans Club/ BFC Queen 2012 The Young Goans Club hosted the Young Goans Club/BFC Queen 2012 at a glittering pageant at the Ramada Plaza Hotel, in Gudaibiya last month. Indian student Advaita Ajit Shetty was judged the winner of the pageant, with Anita Das as 1st runner-up & Ananya Roy as 2nd runner-up

Mala & HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

Vini & Minz

BFC representatives - Saju, Sujailal, Sunil & Vipin

Ananya Roy, Advaita Ajit Shetty & Anita Das

Young Goans Club 2012 managing committee

Choreographer Shamima & Francis

Castro

MC Ulhas Karnavar

BTM August 2012 77

indiaindependence MEGAMART

A Month of Celebrations

A staple supermarket in the Kingdom prepares you for two major events this month — Eid Al-Fitr and Indian Independence Day. Megamart offers you everything you need for a great homecooked meal. The retailer takes great pride in its range of fresh fruits, vegetables and oven-fresh bakery items — perfect for a celebratory feast.

Tying in with this month’s festivities, Megamart has many promotions ongoing to ensure you have everything you need at affordable prices. The one-stop shop has a wide variety of meats and poultry, offering premium cuts of beef, lamb and turkey; follow your savouries with some traditional desserts.

The bakery section is bursting with moist cakes, chocolates, cookies and pastries to name a few. To keep you hydrated, Megamart stocks the best brands in juice, water and energy drinks. The supermarket also houses both fashion and cosmetic brands, to keep you looking bang on trend at low prices.

“It is essential to us to bring only the best products of supreme value to our customers,” explains RV Waghnani, general manager of Megamart. “We extend our wishes to all Indian residents in the Kingdom for the upcoming 65th Independence Day. The supermarket has become a giant in Bahrain’s retailing industry over the years, reflecting on the strong relationship between the two countries.”

E Call 17 341-070, 17 250-334 or 17 343-266.

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78 August 2012 BTM India In Bahrain

Hotline

17 221999 www.ahliunited.com

bystanderthismonth

Desibel Presents DJ Scorpio Desibel hosted an event featuring DJ Scorpio, one of India's leading DJ's, giving party goers the ultimate Asian clubbing experience with his Bollywood remixes and house beats.

The night was kick-started by Bahrain's DJ Ibbi. The event was held at the Grand Saffir Hotel in Juffair

Neha, Clayton, Ravneet & Harsheen

Vishal, Dillon & Sanito

DJ Scorpio & DJ Ibbi

Neha, Clayton, Ravneet & Harsheen

Deepika, Neelou & Amrita

Rajul, Elma & Vijeet

Sumeetha & Keerthana

Edlin, Jasmine & Jovan

Vineeth, Sija, Jeeben & Mithun

Bilal & Jiya

Sumana, Kabi, Laxmi & Sailesh

BTM August 2012 79

indiaindependence

Soon to open Lanterns Restaurant in Adliya

THE LANTERNS RESTAURANT

New Horizons

They’ve established themselves as the best Indian restaurant time and again. After 25 years, this casual dining venue plans to unveil its alter ego in the heart of Adliya.

Lalit Kapur

The Lanterns restaurant opened its doors in 1987 and has since enjoyed the title as one of island’s most iconic restaurants, with numerous awards to prove its excellence in Indian cuisine.

“Having lived in Bahrain for 33 years, and despite the recent economic setback, we hold strong confidence in the market and our loyal guests,” says Lalit Kapur, managing director. “The success of any restaurant is attributed to key factors like location, food, atmosphere, entertainment, service and, above all, our devoted patrons.”

Clearly, this restaurant has prioritised customer satisfaction.

Following feedback, a second Lanterns is rising in Adliya, the dining hub of the Kingdom. Scheduled to open in October, this 800-square metre space will have more add-ons compared to its forerunner.

These include a dedicated lounge area that features the signature truck bar in a brand new design, a garden area for outdoor dining and a rooftop lounge. The striking interiors and traditional set-up, which create a casual atmosphere and a mystical ambience to dine in, will be replicated in the new venue.

For crafting this familiar setting, they have handpicked artefacts from across the Indian subcontinent to give this new venue the same authentic aura which its branch in Budaiya continues to offer.

More than just curry The team at Lanterns have a philosophy they live by; that is to introduce dishes that unveil the genuine flavours and dining habits of Indians, which are largely influenced by the local produce in each region and their cultural differences. Much like

80 August 2012 BTM India In Bahrain

its architecture, Indian cuisine varies from Mughal to modern and exhibit English to Portuguese influences. This results in the gastronomic speciality of fusion Indian cuisine that blends distinct Indian spices with simplistic Western recipes.

Today, the fare has moved even beyond these realms of modernity and hopping on board are the kitchens at Lanterns which will introduce tapas with a spicy twist.

“The challenge is to unlearn everything about traditional Indian cuisine and be open to experiencing modern Indian flavours like seared scallops with coriander, raw mango and almond flavouring, mille feuille of masala crab or gnocchi with cumin and pomegranate. You might even see paneer tikka sushi on the menu,” says Lalit.

“Imagination is the key to offering such dishes. The innovation has extended from taste and texture to presentation as well.

Kababs need not be accompanied with the conventional salad; it has been found to taste better when accompanied with rocket leaves and assorted greens with a hint of balsamic dressing.”

That being said, the essences that made Lanterns popular are here to stay. Enthralling golden melodies performed live by resident musicians will waft through the venue. Resembling the diversity in its clientele, their repertoire varies from heartwarming classics from the past to present day power-packed chart toppers. Watch out for a variation of lounge music which transforms this dining venue into a place of complete relaxation. In two months’ time, you will be part of a unique experience that is much beyond your expectations.

E Call 17 590-591.

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bystanderthismonth

Charity Exhibition At Sheraton A charity shopping exhibition as part of a fund-raising campaign titled ‘Road to Awareness’, was held at the Al Taj Ballroom, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel. The campaign, organised by Starwood Hotels, raises money for UNICEF’s Early Childhood Care and Education programme in Ethiopia. The aim of the project is to provide disadvantaged children in rural communities with pre-primary education so they are better prepared to start going to school

Karlheinz Aumann, Sheraton Bahrain general manager & Esky Girmay open the exhibition

Lily, Cristalyn, Josel, Othman, Gladis, Estella & Anne

Rawan, Aysha, Mariam & Othman

Mariam

82 August 2012 BTM

Venus

Nadya

Mofida & Noor

Dom & Maria

Sara & Ameera

Eric Séva Trio At Bushido On The occasion of the 2012 International Music Day (Fête de la musique) the Alliance Française, Alba and Bushido presented a live jazz concert by the Eric Séva trio, supported by the French Embassy and Golden Tulip. The event featured Eric Séva on saxophones, Jean-Philippe Viret on double bass & Didier Irthursarry on the accordion, followed by Bushido in-house DJ Dara Singh

Didier Irthursarry, Jean-Philippe Viret & Eric Seva

Dina, Pradeep & Karen

Jill & Lili

Yasmeen, Fatima, Halla, Noof, Latifa & Fatima

Pauline, Gregoire, Deborah & Edward

Perla, Claudia & Virginie

Claudia & Daniel

Elham & Kostas

BTM August 2012 83

bystanderthismonth

Children's Academy Professional Afternoon The Children's Academy held a Professional Afternoon which was aimed at professionals who work with special needs children. This was the first such event for the professionals to network with more afternoons to follow

Greg McDonald

Sherry, Eman & Jenny

Susan, Marieke & Aksana

Beverly, Kiyla, Mariette & Shirley

Jo, Peter & Joan

Jazz, Peter & Maria

Tory

Hussain, Abdulla, Laurice & Jacqui

Yasmeen, Marlene & Zahra

Lorraine, Richard & Alex

Christine

84 August 2012 BTM

The K Hotel Pool Party To beat the heat, the K Hotel in Juffair hosted a pool party for a number of guests last month

Alex & Andrea

Abbas & Ahmed

Abbas, Mo, Anna, Agnes, Volker, Firas & Ayla

Leon, Anthony, Sydell, Lydia, Olga, Bonn & Anthony

Michael & Jimmy

Alberto, Johanna & Morgana

Ayla, Ariel, Carlo & Michelle

Ahmed, Mary, Abbas, Ayla & Agnes

BTM August 2012 85

bystanderthismonth

Bahrain Specialist Hospital Seminar The Bahrain Specialist Hospital held the Second Hypertension & Cardiovascular Highlight Session. The event titled 'Anemia & Cardiovascular Disease' was held at the Gulf Hotel's Al Dana Hall Dr Abdul Hai & Dr Kasim

Lolita & Lucila

Fatima, Lulwa & Leena

Mehmood, Dr Waleed, Dr Habib Tareif, Nasser & Dr Jaffer

Dr Haitham & Dr Tarek & Dr Teerath

Suji, Nisha & Mithu

Mariamma, Teresa & Jane

Jessey & Remy

Dr Chandra

For Reservation Call: +973 17 710654 , +973 39 543416

86 August 2012 BTM

Book Bites Evening The Manama Toastmasters Club held a 'Book Bites' evening, featuring reading from the works of Nagiub Mahfouz, P.G. Woodhouse & Chetan Bhagat. The event was held at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Shaikha, Ameer Al Mulla & Isaac

Claire, Heba, Tina & Burzana

Ratindernath, Vijay Boloor, Guraz, Joel, Joash & Joshua

Elizabeth & Lyn

Rani, Joyce & Jess

Madhavi & Mariam

Zakaria

Rose

Anil

BTM August 2012 87

bystanderthismonth AJM Kooheji Group celebrated 30 years of association with LG, another milestone in the 130 year journey of AJM Kooheji Group BSC(C). Seen here are, Sanjeev Awasthi, COO, AJM Kooheji Group; Jamal Kooheji, director, AJM Kooheji Group; Isa Kooheji, director, AJM Kooheji Group; Abdulla Kooheji, vice chairman, AJM Kooheji Group; D.Y. Kim, president, LG Electronics Gulf FZE; AbdulHameed Kooheji, chairman, AJM Kooheji Group; James Park, president, LG Electronics Middle East & Africa (MEA); Mahmood Kooheji, vice chairman, AJM Kooheji Group; Rohit Raina, Group CEO, AJM Kooheji Group; Mohammed Kooheji, director, AJM Kooheji Group & Brian Yang, marketing manager, Commercial Display & Security, LG Electronics Gulf FZE

Waitrose will open its first store in Manama in the soon to open mall, Al Hayat Shopping Centre, in Mahooz.

Dr Fadhel Al Arrayed, chairman, Etihad Al Khaleej Real Estate Company BSC (EAK) & J.C.F. Holtzhausen, chief operating officer, Fine Fare Food Market (FFFM) signed the agreement at the EAK office last month Awan Media Co. WLL are now the exclusive advertising concessionaire for marketing & selling commercial advertising at all the Bahrain Cinema Company venues. An official agreement was signed by Sunil Balan, COO, Bahrain Cinema Company & Nasir Awan, executive director, Awan Media, at Awal Banquet Hall, Awal Cinema in the presence of the media professionals & agencies. Seen here, Sunil Balan & Nasir Awan

Bahrain City Centre took home top honours for ‘Best Facebook Page’ in Bahrain at the recent Social Media Day Awards 2012. Held to recognise International Social Media Day, the event was hosted by the local Bahraini Chapter of Social Media Club

Hatim S Zu’bi & Partners and Qays H. Zu’bi, Attorneys & Legal Consultants have merged to become Zu’bi & Partners, Attorneys & Legal Consultants. Seen here are, Qays H Zu'bi, Hatim Q Zu'bi & Hatim S Zu'bi

First Motors the official dealers of Hyundai in the kingdom announced Kamal Noor Kamal as the first winner of the Euro Cup campaign.

First Motors also announced the remaining 3 winners of the campaign. All 4 winners were presented with an all-inclusive package for 2 to the 2012 UEFA Euro Cup finals in Kiev, Ukraine, that included air tickets, hotel-stay & tickets to watch the final in the Olympic Stadium. Seen here are, Sooraj Komaran, First Motors Fleet sales manager & Mr Kamal

“Across the Middle East and Around the Globe” Daily / Weekly / Monthly car rentals 24 Hours Airport Counter Reservations

Summer Sale From July 1st till August 30th 2012

Prices starting from

BD 8 per day*

VISIT US NOW TO RENT YOUR CAR! Airport Branch Phone +973 17321306 / +973 17321251 (24 hours) www.national-bahrain.com

88 August 2012 BTM

* Terms & Conditions apply

Main Office Phone +973 17231156 Fax +973 17243174 info@national-bahrain.com

downtimethismonth

Johnny Depp

Secrets to Social Success Keerthana Louis We all secretly want to be cool, even if we never admit it to anyone else. But what does this four-letter word really mean?

The irritating thing is that when we walk by someone who is cool, we know it! Often, we can’t explain why either; you may never be able to pinpoint exactly what it is, but it’s there.

Thankfully there are people in this world who spend their lives trying to figure out an answer to the query — what does it take to be cool? Psychologists in New York have sat down with this very question and come up with rather surprising results.

I, for one, knew exactly what it took to be part of the in-crowd when I was growing up. I was the height of cool in the first week of fifth grade, when I arrived at school wearing a brand new pair of Nike running shoes. Obviously the hype did not last, and soon enough I was the nerdy girl in scuffed-up trainers once again. Which makes me wonder, would a pair of designer running shoes still hold the same kind of sway they once did?

Let’s face it, nowadays a kid would probably be more likely to turn up at school with an iPad in addition to their Nike shoes and Adidas backpack. Even classic definitions of cool have changed.

For instance, researcher Ilan Dar-Nimrod points out society no longer views James Dean as the epitome of cool. The idea of Also this month

being detached from society raises more eyebrows now than it might have before. Instead of acquiring a gaggle of supporters, you’d be more likely to find yourself trapped in a room with a guidance counsellor.

Does this mean we’ve moved away from the notion that being rebellious is cool? Not exactly; the idea that bug-eyed actor Steve Buscemi, of Boardwalk Empire fame, is cool means we still haven’t completely gotten over our love of ambitious rebels. Johnny Depp’s outrageous clothing and the characters that he chooses to portray defends this theory of going against the norm to win the crowd.

Yet, the tide is definitely turning.

While some of us still can’t resist the notion of a bad-boy or girl, others find that people like Cory Monteith’s character in Glee are cool by default. We are beginning to put more emphasis on positive characteristics; desirable traits include being friendly and competent as well as trendy and attractive.

Being social is now cool. Being passionate about a cause is cool. And perhaps most telling of all, being nice is cool.

Next time, when you wake up one morning with that urgent desire to purchase a Gucci suit or Prada pumps, remember this; society no longer hinges the idea of cool to material things.

Instead of promoting merchandise around the office water cooler, try to be friendly, competent and warm individuals.

If that doesn’t work, remember that with six billion plus people on this Earth, someone somewhere will think you are cool.

90 Gadgets x 92 Music x 94 Computer games x 95 Websites x 96 Apps x 97 Movies

The right sound

These aren’t your average headphones! The Parrot Zik Bluetooth headphones are touch sensitive, include automatic muting and have four integrated microphones for active noise-reduction and hands-free calls.

On the move

When you can’t manage to text with only one hand, there’s FlyGrip. It fits onto the back of any smartphone and provides support for your fingers; alternatively, use it as a kickstand to view media.

BTM August 2012 89

downtimegadgets

Get Your Latest Techno Fix It’s summer and time for a makeover. What better way to add some pizzazz to your lifestyle than with an array of new gizmos. See what we have in store for you!

Editor's pick!

Power play

The Google Nexus Q is a media streaming player that is designed to be used in your home; it is capable of streaming audio and video files directly from the cloud to your device. Powered by Android 4.0 ICS, it comes with a range of Google apps.

At full blast

If you haven’t come across this innovative design before, the Zooka Bluetooth speaker simply slips onto the top edge of your iPad or MacBook and provides extra enhanced audio for games and applications. It also wirelessly connects to any other Bluetooth device seamlessly.

Created with the portability of a tablet, the sleeve is made entirely of medical silicone, making it both durable and comfortable to the touch.

Frame of mind

It probably isn’t the first brand that comes to mind when you’re thinking of cameras but Samsung has taken the wraps off a new addition to their camera range, the WB100, which is equipped with a massive 26x optical high zoom lens.

Touch-and-go

Combining a traditional mouse and a touchpad is Gigabyte with the Aivia Xenon Mouse. It is equipped with a 1,000 dpi resolution. It is extremely accurate even during rapid motion, and supports a number of multi-touch gestures once the touchpad mode has been enabled.

90 August 2012 BTM

Load and clear

A new iPhone amplifier has been created called the Ecoamp, which has been made from FSC certified 100 per cent post-consumer paper. You might have to revisit your basic origami skills, though. It is sent out flat-packed and requires a little easy folding and construction.

A fine line

Using flat materials and printable components, master industrial design student Hannes Harms has created what is an ultra-thin speaker system that is all of 0.5 mm thick. Are you wondering where the buttons are? They have been integrated onto the minimalist stand.

Smell the Coffee

With the Indispensable Coffee Dispenser, ground coffee with maximum flavour is available at any time without worrying about finding the time to grind the beans.

Built to measure one tablespoon at a time, it can be used to place ground coffee directly into coffeemakers or espresso machines.

Have you heard?

AiAiAi has unveiled a new addition to their range of headphones in the form of Capital.

Specifically designed for urban dwellers, these ear candies are rugged, durable, foldable and flexible. What’s not to like?

Dry as dust

If you’re the adventurous kind, the new action cam from JVC, nicknamed the Adixxion, should be of interest to you as it is both water- and dust-proof. Weighing just 126 g, it is fitted with a quad-proof for protection without the need for an extra casing.

Face the Music In a flash

Tiny gizmos are always tempting, much like Point Grey’s Flea3 FL3-U3, which is a range of miniature cameras equipped with USB3.0 and a variety of low-cost, high-speed, CMOS image sensors to choose from.

It no longer matters if your friends can’t tolerate your music any more because that’s why you’ve got Shimi, the musical robot from Georgia Tech. Designed to change the way we think and enjoy our music, he certainly is a cool little bot.

All gadgets are available online.

BTM August 2012 91

downtimemusic

And They Are Back!

It was fun while it lasted. This month, we board the train back to the world of tasteless music; we also found a few artists taking courageous steps in their career.

Flo Rida

Wild Ones

OF AL TH B E U M M ON TH

RATING:

WHAT’S THE STORY? Wild Ones is the fourth album from Flo Rida and probably one of his best to date. Unlike his previous releases which featured hit singles, but mediocre or worse tracks filling the album, this one is filled with songs that are worthy of being singles. It seems like the rapper/pop artist has figured out a successful formula to put together a wellrounded album which features multiple hit songs.

Although he isn’t that great a rapper, he matches up well with the upbeat tracks which fill the album and are specialised for the radio.

WORTH A LISTEN?

Much like his previous tracks, these are going to spend a lot of time on air and in nightclubs. Gone are the days when the idea of featuring was just that. This album will survive owing to the title song which ‘features’ Sia, who really is the only artist that actually performs at all. Flo Rida, no doubt, is a pioneer of the urban-dance genre.

However for someone who has helped create a singles-driven culture in the world of disposable club music, it is surprising and unnecessary that he has come out with a whole album. It also plays a significant role in its sudden demise.

VERDICT: You’ll dance to it for a while; then, you’ll forget it existed.

TOP TRACKS: Wild Ones and Good Feeling.

Chris Brown

Fortune

As if he isn’t in the news enough, Breezy, as he is now known, thought it would be the perfect time to release a new album. Whether it’s his bad boy status or not, this one has hit the ground before it could even make a decent appearance. To compare him with Usher’s recent (failed) release is bad enough, but it is definitely the better of the two evils. It does have the exceptional fresh tracks, but you will have to be overly positive to like this one.

92 August 2012 BTM

Hoobastank

Fight or Flight This might be their fifth album, but it is their first independent release. A brave leap, Fight or Flight, appears to be a do or die set from the band. With no one to point fingers at, they have done a decent job this time around.

50 Cent

5 With 5, Fif says, “Look what I can do”. This time, though, it isn’t in respect to his music skills. Although released with much ado, it doesn't show in his work; but the heroic move showcases a lot of boarded up tension with his label.

downtimecomputergames

Battle of Wits There is the expected stint in dungeons and the occasional wars in alternate universes. However, we’re smitten by an intriguing Japanese role-playing game.

TH GA E M M E ON TH

Spec Ops: The Line

OF

You better be prepared for pain, scars and tough decision if you want to get out of this alive. The multiplayer option is relatively disappointing, a hollow experience, you could say. This is one of those games where it’s all about you and nothing else.

The Secret World

The Last Story (Wii) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

While the mainland of the Empire faces both conflict and the slow creep of the dying land, there is one region that continues to prosper — Lazulis Island. A young mercenary Zael comes to the island in the hope of finding more work but ends up obtaining a mysterious new power. This Japanese role-playing game for the Wii console from Hironobu Sakaguchi lets you take charge of a band of mercenaries and journey with them into a sprawling cinematic adventure.

This game can be distinguished by its setting alone. With nine years in its development stage, the detailing is almost tiresome. An advantage is that you aren’t bound by class; all skills and abilities are available to every character. There is room for improvement.

GRAPHICS:

It’s safe to say that The Last Story is not like the usual roleplaying games from the Far East; the graphics aren’t stiff. The settings you see can be used to your benefit. Those walls are there to hide behind; bridges and pillars can be broken down. There are too many intricate details in the design aspect alone; it is no wonder that this is one of the best-looking games in the Wii world. Even with so much going on, the focus on each element is faultless.

GAMEPLAY:

The one thing that a role-playing game relies on is its characters. If there isn’t a solid story, there is just no direction to go to. The Last Story has mastered this impeccably. The multiplayer option is a welcome feature that makes the game more interactive. The gameplay might feel a little light for hardcore gamers, but it’s a pleasant journey nonetheless. It also evades what is dreaded of these genres — long-windedness. The professionalism behind its creation oozes out of each level.

VERDICT: It’s been a while since we checked out a Wii game; we love this one.

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Darksiders II This epic journey propels Death, one of the four horsemen of the Apocalypse, through various light and dark realms as he tries to redeem his brother, War. Darksiders II features a dramatically larger world, complete weapon and armour upgrades and more challenging enemies than the original.

websites

TE TH SI ON EB M W THE

OF

Foodgawker.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Foodgawker is a photo gallery that allows you to visually search and discover new recipes, techniques and ingredients to inspire your culinary adventures. It publishes food photography submitted by food bloggers from around the world. Launched in June 2008 by web consultant, Chuck Lai, this is a network of curated, user-submitted photo gallery sites.

THE GOOD: To get more details about a photo, simply click on the

image and you’ll be taken to the submitter’s blog post where you’ll find a recipe, read a restaurant review or learn about new food trends. If you register and create an account with them, you will be able to save, tag and write notes on your favourite photos/recipes by clicking on the heart icon. You can even share your page of favourites with your friends and family..

THE BAD:

Once you get hooked on gawking at mouth-watering food photos, you’ll need to constantly feed your eyes. To accommodate this addiction, they publish new images multiple times a day, seven days a week; 365 days a year. Thanks to the thousands of incredible food bloggers who submit to the site, they have an extensive archive of recipes that you can visually browse and search by category, tags and popularity.

VERDICT: This is for those who can’t eat a meal without ‘Instagram’ing it.

Losttype.com This is a ‘pay what you want’ type foundry; the first of its kind. A full fledged foundry, it distributes fonts from designers all over the world, with its unique model. 100 per cent of funds from these sales go directly to the designers of the fonts.

Everyonesmixtape.com This celebrates the art of creating mixtapes. You can add to an existing mix or start one of your own. Share with the world, your friends or that special someone. This is not about adding songs and hitting shuffle. It’s more than a playlist.

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downtimeapps

Every Drop Counts Pave way for the most exciting apps of the season in the mobile gaming world.

We’ve all got a mission of our own — fix them pipes, save the damsel in distress or swish your paintbrush.

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Wind-Up Knight (Android) Wind-up Knight by Robot Invader is a high-end, actionpacked, 3D side-scrolling adventure game, and it’s here to show you how games are supposed to be played. Guide your man in armour through over 50 devilish levels to rescue the princess from the clutches of the evil Black Knight. Run, jump, roll and slash your way to victory. Not your typical runner game, it is the type of challenging game you’ve been missing in your life. It has been designed from the ground up to provide a console-level experience for your Android device.

The Princess hasn’t got all day, download it now.

Where’s My Water? (iOS, Android) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Where’s My Water? is a fun, simple, yet challenging, physics-based puzzle game featuring Swampy the Alligator and his quest to take a shower. In the app, players guide water through subterranean layers of earth into Swampy’s tub. With more than 140 levels and features such as lifelike water physics, richly detailed graphics, achievements, and humorous special effects, the game is one of the top-rated apps available today.

THE GOOD: Swampy’s pipes are broken and it is up to you to get the water flowing

again. You can keep playing for a long while as you can continue to improve your performance by collecting all the rubber duckies before you find a solution. Also, from the designer of JellyCar’s squishy world comes flawlessly fluid physics. Swipe, slosh, and splash to guide water through increasingly challenging scenarios. Tap around for even more surprises.

THE BAD:

It isn’t the toughest game in the world. However, you could do with the occasional hint now and then. Also, it is doubtful how many people would want to shell out cash to fix imaginary pipes for a crocodile. There’s no reason to hate this game though. It gives your brain that extra exercise while keeping it entertaining.

VERDICT: Sometimes, you’ve got to believe in crocodile tears.

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Color & Draw (Android) We all know how hard it is to keep your kids away from your smartphones. Here’s one way to keep both you and your child happy. Color & Draw is a complete artistic solution for phones, an amazing colouring and drawing app for kids (and adults too). The pages have voice-over invitations to get kids’ creative juices flowing. It now comes with the undo and multi-touch options. There is a child lock to prevent children from buying in-app inadvertently. You can share their creations via email or save them to the device’s gallery.

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movies

The Amazing Spider-Man RATING: DIRECTED BY: Marc Webb STARRING: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone

THE PLOT:

Like most teenagers, Peter Parker is trying to figure out who he is and how he got to be the person he is today. He begins a quest to understand his parents’ disappearance leading him directly to Dr Curt Connors, his father’s former partner. As Spider-Man is set on a collision course with Connors’ alter-ego, The Lizard, Peter will make life-altering choices to become a hero.

WORTH WATCHING? We understand the need to reboot a

franchise from scratch, but when the Raimi/Maguire version remains fresh in every Marvel geek’s mind, this rendition has come to look like nothing but a reinvention of the wheel. While the pillars of the story remain the same, The Amazing Spider-Man does bring with it a fair amount of freshness in terms of perspective, style and interpretation. Garfield and Stone have given it their best.

VERDICT: The Amazing Spider-Man is not so amazing after all.

Girl in Progress This is a story about a teenage daughter and a singe mum. Where have we heard that one before? Of course, it mounded up to become a synonym of the word ‘clichéd’. Forced humour, girl eyeing the senior school “player”; this one’s got it all. Eva Mendes is probably the only sellingpoint of this failed flick.

Ice Age 4 We all know how the continents came into being; of course, it happened during Scrat’s (unsuccessful) struggle to get that unattainable acorn. For a franchise that did amazingly well so far, this one is a little hard to enjoy, unless you’re a child. Trust us, it doesn’t help if it’s only at heart.

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motoringthismonth

Porsche Boxster

Stunning Speedster The latest generation of Porsche Boxsters offer a fresh, contemporary look that deliver a comprehensively different open two-seater sports car.

Porsche Centre Bahrain has launched next generation editions of the Porsche Boxster and Boxster S; both of which have a new, lightweight body and a completely redesigned chassis.

Considerably lower weight, longer wheelbase, a wider track and larger wheels significantly enhance the mid-engine sports car’s driving dynamics undermining its position as the best in its class. Superior performance is backed by up to 15 per cent more fuel efficiency, and depending on model, each get by with significantly less than eight litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.

Fundamentally changed styling — with shorter overhangs — a significantly forward-shifted windscreen, flatter silhouette and expressive edges all provide the Boxster with a fresh, contemporary look. The new roadster’s posture is decidedly more muscular and striking.

Passengers are enclosed by a redesigned, fully electric hood, which now dispenses with a convertible top compartment lid.

This affords the occupants more space, and reflects the new Porsche outline — a raked centre console, which originated with the Carrera GT. “Without any doubt, the new generation Boxster represents a quantum leap in Porsche’s development of mid-engine vehicles,” says Morgan Sunderland, brand manager of Porsche Centre Bahrain. “It combines a breathtaking design with a great day-to-day usability. This new roadster stands for pure driving pleasure through the principles of Porsche Intelligent Performance.”

Both the Boxster and Boxster S models are powered by flat-six boxer engines with direct petrol injection, enhanced by electrical system recuperation, thermal management, an auto start/stop function as well as electro-mechanical power steering.

The base model’s new power unit delivers 265 hp, while the Boxster S produces an output 315 hp and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just five seconds. Both models feature a manual six-speed gearbox as standard, with the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe available as an option.

The Sport Chrono package comes as an optional extra for the Boxster, featuring dynamic transmission mounts for the first time. Newly available as an add-on feature in the roadster is Porsche torque vectoring, with mechanical rear axle differential lock, the ideal complement to Porsche stability management.

E Call 17 459-911.

Also this month

100 x Wheels - 101 x Showcase - 105 x Deals on Wheels

VW Passat

Smooth Operator The new Volkswagen Passat redefines the benchmark for affordable luxury with innovative technology, stylish design and peerless engineering. The 2012 model is larger, more comfortable and sets benchmarks in safety, technology, space and luxury.

“A revolution in its category, the new Passat brings luxurious but affordable Germanengineered motoring to the Middle East,” says Stefan Mecha, managing director of Volkswagen Middle East.

Timeless, dominant styling is created with clear, minimal forms and lines with a predominance of horizontal body elements, reflecting Volkswagen’s unique design DNA. The Passat is available with a 2.5-litre 170 hp fivecylinder engine and a sixspeed automatic gearbox.

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motoringwheels

Pleasing to the Eye DAVID M. ROBERTSON The Mercedes-Benz GLK offers something different for those seeking a little extra from this German brand; appealing looks that camouflage engineering excellence.

Model Mercedes GLK 350 Model year 2012 Engine type 3.5-litre V6 engine Displacement 3,498 cc Horsepower 225 hp @ 6,500 rpm Torque 370 Nm @ 3,500 rpm Transmission 7-speed tronic plus gearbox Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 6.5 seconds Top speed 238 km/h

100 August 2012 BTM

Surveying the sports utility vehicles (SUV) within the Al Haddad Motors showroom in Isa Town, it reminded me of the book Beauty and the Beast. The rugged looks of the Mercedes-Benz G Class indicate that this SUV will be at home off the road.

Across the showroom floor stood the Mercedes GLK which I was to drive; very much the beauty and not out of place at all driving along an urban road. It’s also pretty nifty off the road as well, I might add.

As you might expect from a German-engineered vehicle, the performance and the ride were extremely smooth; everything functioned as anticipated, and when the extra power was required it was delivered on demand. The philosophy of Mercedes is simple — to give our best for people who deserve the best.

Expectation met is the conclusion one would reach having taken the GLK 350 around the island for a spin.

Spacious on the interior with easily accessed controls on the centre console and the steering wheel, it is as the GLK design template describes — expressive lines and a contemporary approach to yield a distinctive character. The secret to good design is often to accomplish a look and feel that is deceptively simple, yet the soft touches and refinement are clearly visible.

The concept behind the GLK was to infuse the ruggedness of an off-roader, through its engineering and performance, within the compact dimensions of a passenger car. To achieve this required an intelligent use of the interior space, and Mercedes have not disappointed in this regard.

What drives the smooth ride is the agility control suspension and dampening system that automatically adjusts to match the

road conditions. If that is not enough for you, you can always install the optional exterior sports package, which lowers the height of the SUV by around 20 mm. The impact of this is most obvious when cornering at speed.

The idea of having seven gears might appear little more than a marketing exercise to improve the image of a vehicle; this number of gears, though, does serve a very specific purpose. It facilitates short intervals between gear shifts; when you press the accelerator, there is no perceptible interruption in performance.

It’s always fun to test out this aspect of a vehicle, particularly with an SUV where the extra weight, compared to a sedan, offers a true indication of the underlying engineering. The GLK glided through this test as effortlessly as one would imagine by looking at the exterior design lines.

As the old adage says, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

There’s no doubting both the aesthetic and the engineering beauty of the Mercedes GLK. E Call 17 785-454.

showcase

ALMOAYYED MOTORS

Full-size Motoring Big wheels are always in demand in this part of the world, and few do it better the car manufacturing giants, Ford.

The Expedition is Ford’s largest full-size SUV, standing out from its competitors due to its combination of smooth ride, quiet interior, comfort and a full-size truck-hauling ability.

Moreover, this Ford is the do-it-all full-size SUV — tough, functional and refined, as well as clever control technologies to help customers tow confidently in just about any condition, on- or off-road.

“The 2012 Ford Expedition combines capability with comfort and technology for customers who need what only a full-size SUV can deliver,” said Sandeep Mathur, Almoayyed Motors general manager.

With a 5.4-litre V8 engine, the car is flex-fuel capable, meaning the engine can run on gasoline, ethanol alcohol or a mixture of both. The standard six-speed automatic transmission allows for smaller steps between gears than a typical four-speed automatic. Delivering improved shift quality, faster acceleration and improved fuel economy.

Expedition also features an independent multi-link rear suspension, which allows each rear wheel to react independently to road impacts to provide a smooth, controlled ride. It comes with a power liftgate, where a push of the key fob button conveniently opens or closes the liftgate, allowing easy loading and unloading as well.

Ford has gone all out in the safety department providing families with all the security that is expected from an SUV. Trailer Sway Control is standard on every Expedition and works in conjunction with other features to expand its dynamic stability control capabilities.

This adds an additional layer of confidence and control when towing a trailer; meanwhile the class-exclusive AdvanceTrac control module incorporates additional software

to monitor the vehicle’s performance while towing.

The Expedition’s interior volume is nothing less than impressive. With the new model, the cargo stowage options have been further enhanced by clever solutions. The split bench second-row seats, with a CenterSlide feature, allow the centre section to be moved forward almost 11 inches for easier access of cargo from the front-row seats. Third-row seats have an available PowerFold split bench by which one or both seat backs can be lowered flat to the floor with the touch of a button.

For the techno savvy, the class-exclusive SYNC feature provides hands-free access with simple voice commands. The feature includes hands-free calling via paired and connected Bluetooth-enabled phone, hands-free music via USBconnected digital media player.

Ramadan promotion If you are in the market for a brand new Expedition or any other Ford model, you will be pleased to know of the great value packages offered by Almoayyed Motors this Ramadan.

Attractive finance promotions of low interest rates, zero down payment, 60 days deferred payment and free registration are all in store this summer.

Buyers can also benefit from a five-year or 100,000 kilometres power train warranty, three years or 60,000 kilometres GCC road assist and even an attractive trade-in deal. A Spin and Win campaign will also be held, giving customers a chance to win back BD150 in cash and also receive gift vouchers worth up to BD400.

E Call 17 737-373.

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AL HADDAD MOTORS

A Luxurious Athlete The letters ‘SL’ are synonymous with a symbiosis of sportiness, style and comfort — and with groundbreaking innovations from this German automaker.

The new Mercedes-Benz SL has been produced, for the first time, almost entirely from aluminium and weighs up to 140 kilograms less than its predecessor. Its highly rigid allaluminium body shell provides the basis for agile, sporty handling, coupled with exemplary roll characteristics and ride comfort. Even better driving dynamics come courtesy of the new BlueDIRECT engines; they are more powerful yet at the same time up to 29 per cent more economical than the engines in the outgoing generation.

Other new features include the unique frontbass system, which turns the luxury sports car into a concert hall regardless of whether the top is open or closed. There’s also the highly efficient adaptive windscreen wipe/wash system; it supplies water from the wiper blade to the windscreen — as required and depending on the direction of wipe.

“There are around 900 million cars in the world and thousands of models; but there are only a handful of automotive icons,” said Graeme Newport, general manager of Al Haddad Motors, at the launch event. “Our SL is one of them; it has class, it has style, it oozes comfort and luxury. It also blends all of this with unbelievable sportiness and dynamism. Virtually no other car can meet Gottlieb Daimler’s standard as perfectly as the SL.” Driving pleasure Powerful while accelerating, effortlessly superior across all speeds, nimble on winding roads, the new SL provides no end

102 August 2012 BTM

of driving pleasure. Apart from the powerful engines, the sportily tuned yet comfortable suspension, which also boasts an intelligent lightweight construction, proves outstanding.

The new V8 in the SL 500 develops 435 hp; the torque now stands at an impressive f700 Nm — a 32 per cent over its predecessor. The new V6 engine, in the new SL 350, develops 306 hp and delivers 370 Nm of torque, allowing this model to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The SL 500 breaks the 100 km/h mark in just 4.6 seconds.

Hands-free access The innovative system provides hands-free, contactless operation of the boot lid. The driver simply moves their foot in the vicinity of the rear bumper. Mercedes-Benz is the only carmaker to offer a system which not only automatically opens the boot lid but closes it as well.

The SL is available at the Haddad Motors showroom in Isa Town.

E Call 17 785-454.

MOTOR CITY

Dynamic Silhouette A new SsangYong hits the roads of the Kingdom with the launch of the latest SUV from the Korean car manufacturer.

Motorcity, the sole distributor of SsangYong in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has launched the latest SsangYong Korando, an iconic model which is an elegant symbol among SUVs. “We are delighted to introduce the new Korando from SsangYong in Bahrain. It has already made its mark in other international markets and we are sure that it will be an instant hit in Bahrain, also,” commented Bashar Darkazalli, Motorcity CEO, at the launch. “With Korando living up to its development motto, ‘Live your life to the full however with dignity’, and Motorcity offering its committed after-sales service, our customers are certain to get the best of both worlds.”

The Korando is available with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, generating 150 hp, which complies with the EURO5 emission standards. It is currently available in manual transmission, which gives the driver the ability to enjoy the thrill of a sportier driving sensation. The automatic transmission version will be made available in the coming months.

SsangYong is very focused on the active and passive safety of the driver and the passengers and thus Korando is equipped with an electronic stability programme (ESP) which prevents wheels from slipping and the driver from under-steering or over-steering. Incorporated into the ESP are the anti-slip relation, automatic brake differential, anti-lock brake, active rollover protection, hill start assist and emergency stop signal systems to monitor vehicle and road conditions and intervene when a potentially dangerous situation is detected.

Korando’s remarkable design and exquisite workmanship hidden behind its dynamic silhouette captivates the viewers’ attention and redefines the personality of an individual. The high quality chrome-coated radiator grille, all-around tinted glass, dual tail pipes and headlamps harmonise with its dynamic lines. The rear combination lamps show its unique refined curves, and a variety of colours, for both the interior and exterior of the car, are some of the features the Korando possesses.

The SUV also comes with advanced and convenient features such as a dual remote keyless entry system, parking aid system, audio control on steering wheel, six-speaker audio system with CD (MP3), USB memory slot and auxiliary port, Bluetooth, tinted glass, lumbar support on driver seat, cruise control, trip computer, front fog lamps and a stylish silver roof rail while sunroof is optional.E Call 17 736-222 or visit the

BTM August 2012 103

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EURO MOTORS

Expanding Accessibility Performance and technology have always been primary areas of expertise for BMW; agility and driving dynamics remain outstanding attributes of the BMW 3 Series.

104 August 2012 BTM

Euro Motors continues to make the BMW 3 Series more accessible to customers with the launch of a third engine variant — the BMW 320i.

“The BMW 3 Series has been riding the wave of success ever since its launch 37 years ago; in fact, every third BMW sold in 2011 was a 3 Series,” commented Paul Yates, general manager, Euro Motors, in confirming this latest arrival to the showroom. “It is therefore a very important model for Euro Motors, and by adding an additional engine variant, we expect to achieve even greater success.”

Customers can now choose from two powerful TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engines — 320i and 328i — and the sixcylinder 335i. All three come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, together with EfficientDynamics technology to make the cars more fuel efficient.

The BMW 3 Series is the first from the German automaker to be available with three different lines — Modern, Sport and Luxury — that offers three distinctive design personalities for the exterior and interior. Within each line, customers can choose a number of exclusive finishes and equipment variants to suit their taste.

Inside the new BMW 3 Series, the noticeable increase in space means significant benefit for the rear passengers. The classic BMW interior surfaces and lines flow over the instrument panel towards the front passenger side of the cabin, where they form a smooth and protective border. The cockpit wraps around the driver and ensures that all important functions are within easy reach.

There is also the BMW ConnectedDrive technology that gives the driver and passengers’ information and services to help make their driving experience safer and more comfortable. These include rear-view camera and park assistant, a system that takes on the search for a parking space as well as the parking.

The new BMW 320i includes iDrive along with an 8.8-inch or 6.5-inch screen. There is also an automatic sliding and tilting glass sunroof. In addition there’s the new driving experience control switch, with four driving programmes, allowing the driver to choose between sporty, ultra sporty, comfortable and extremely economical driving mode.

New to the 3 Series, this feature helps drivers maximise fuel economy by analysing their driving style, thereby enabling them to increase the distance they can travel on each tank of fuel.

The new BMW 320i is available at Euro Motors showroom for BD14,995. E Call 17 750-750.

dealsonwheels

Ramadan Madness The Holy Month is the season of giving and car dealers throughout the Kingdom are doing just that with an abundance of special deals and promotions.

Ahmed Zayani & Sons Special offers on selected Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles could land you the car of your dreams. Take advantage of free insurance, registration, under-seal, window tint and a five-year, or 100,000 km, extended manufacturer warranty on a number of models. Also don’t miss the chance to win one of the most popular sedans in the Middle East, a 2012 Dodge Charger SE. E Call 17 238-822.

Al Haddad Motors The keys of a Mercedes-Benz could be within your reach with Al Haddad Motors’ incredible offers. All vehicles have a twoyear, or 30,000 km, service package and five-year comprehensive premium coverage. Buyers who purchase in the Holy Month will be entitled to a lucky raffle draw for a business class trip for two to the Burj Al Arab for three days and two nights.

The offer does not end here, customers purchasing vehicles during Ramadan will also be entitled to package which includes headlight, door edge, interior, carpet and tyre protection, offering you with peace of mind when purchasing a new vehicle.

Al Haddad Motors is also giving away a BD100 gift voucher redeemable on any product and services such as merchandise and accessories, as well as offering special trade in offers and special bank rates, until the end of August. E Call 17 785-454.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo and Toyota Servicing your Toyota or Lexus during the Holy Month of Ramadan just got easier as Ebrahim K. Kanoo and Toyota are offering exclusive service maintenance. A 20 per cent discount on parts and labour charges, 25 per cent discount on Michelin tyres, 20 per cent discount on Llumar and Ziebart services are all offered. Customers can also enjoy special rates on body and

paint works and a chance to win valuable prizes.

E Call Toyota Plaza 17 787-888, Arad Service Centre 17 677-222, Toyota Express Service in Manama 17 256-677 or Riffa Express Service on 17 775-788.

Euro Motors Euro Motors are offering a 10 per cent down-payment on selected BMWs and MINIs purchased during Ramadan.

Customers can enjoy a payment holiday until January 2013 when they can start their first installment.

If you have always dreamed of driving around town in a Range Rover, then gear up for the special promotions. This month, the Range Rover Sport Supercharged starts at BD37,750 while the Range Rover Vogue Supercharged starts at BD44,750. E Call 17 750-750.

Kia Motors KIA Motors is offering free life insurance, flexible repayment period up to seven years, attractive interest rates and simple documentation with quick approvals for any purchase. As an added incentive, customers will get a raffle ticket that could win an all-new KIA Pincato for free. Cars like the Optima, Cadenza, Sportage and Rio will all be offered at special Ramadan prices until August 31. E Call 17 408-800.

Y, K. Almoayyed & Sons Low interest rates, zero down payment, 60 days deferred payment and free registration are all in store this summer at Almoayyed. A five-year, or 100,000 km, powertrain warranty, and a three-year, or 60,000 km, GCC road assist and even an attractive trade-in deal are also offered to buyers.

You can even take your chance at winning some cash with the ‘Spin and Win’ campaign. E Call 17 732-732.

BTM August 2012 105

bystanderthismonth

Royal Bahrain Hospital Press Conference The Royal Bahrain Hospital held a press conference to announce the offical inauguration of the hospital last month. The event was held at Gulf Hotel's Al Dana Hall 2

Dr Ravi Preeth, Jacob Thomas, Mashood, Ahmed Jawahery, Ali Hassan, Mathew, Shaikh Hamed Al Khalifa & Ali Ahmed Jawaheri

Jacob, Dr Cheriyan, Boban & Dr Ravi Preeth

Sebastian, Dr Pareesh, Ali & Hussain

Ali, Margaretta, Ali & Jamal

Nicole & Ashley

Dr M.I. Sahadulla

Zahra & Primrose

Dr M.A. Mohammed

Mashood

10th Burger King Outlet Launched The Jawad Business group held a ceremony to mark the opening of the 10th Burger King outlet in Bahrain. The outlet located in Al Andalusia, near Isa Town was opened by Thierry Rousset, senior director and general manager of the regional franchise holder

Jagdish, Sushil, Noor, Ali & Thierry

Abbas, Thierry & Ram

Arlyn, Sudhi, Francis & Pinky

Ali Mansoor, Thierry Rousset & Abbas Hussain cut the ribbon to open the outlet

106 August 2012 BTM

Noor, Sushil, Abbas, Ali, Thierry, Ram & Jagdish

Thierry speaks to the media

diningthismonth

Benchmark Lebanese KEERTHANA LOUIS

Lebanese restaurants are plentiful on our island. This venue offers authentic fare with modern touches, which makes it all the more inviting.

Celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan at Abd El Wahab, the benchmark by which Lebanese cuisine on the island is judged.

The daily Iftar buffet is priced at BD15+ and there is also an à la carte or set menu available for Sohour.

Live cooking stations every day add a bit of excitement to your meal, while live entertainment from Tuesday to Saturday offer a chance to relax with melodious tunes.

The venue Named after the street on which the original restaurant was situated in Beirut, Abd El Wahab is conveniently located in Moda Mall. This two-storey modern restaurant, with its mysterious exterior, is an impressive mix of tradition and modernity inside.

Step through the large heavy doors and you quickly realise why this 300-seat venue is increasingly full for lunch and dinner. The walls are accented with black and white photos of old Lebanon, a testament to where it all began.

Yet, the quality and efficiency of the food, the staff and the ambience are nothing but modern day perfection. It is the perfect balance between old and new. With polished floors, high ceilings and a contemporary vibe with Middle Eastern Also this month

touches, the designers have really worked hard to keep both a Lebanese, Middle Eastern tone without losing its attraction for an international clientele.

The cuisine The kitchen is run by chef Louis Khauand, who prepares the Lebanese fare. Working with a kitchen team numbering over a dozen, the food is always fresh and delicious. The bread, which accompanies every meal is made in-house, and is as much fun to watch through the open kitchen as it is baked, as it is to eat.

For house specialties, try the hot starter of chicken livers marinated and sautéed with pomegranate, garlic and lemon juice for exceptional flavour. If you are impressed with the food, the service at Abd El Wahab will also have you returning again and again.

The restaurant is teeming with staff, who despite their numbers, do not intrude on your dining experience. Arabicspeaking waiters work in an organized chaos of speed and efficiency. There is of course many bilingual and Englishspeaking serving staff on hand to ensure that international clients are looked after accordingly.

Residents and visitors alike will soak up the ambience and enjoy the quality of the cuisine available. The restaurant is managed by Elias Nohra, who works hard to make sure diners are kept happy.

And with prices which seem exceedingly reasonable, considering the venue and the quality, he is a man who is going to be kept very busy. Food, music, and entertainment; this venue brings a touch of Beirut to Bahrain. E Call 17 131-111.

108 x Happenings - 111 x Restaurant Listings

Tuck In! Have it your way at Burger King’s newest outlet in Bahrain. Located in Al Andalusia, Isa Town, the venue is part of the chain’s expansion plan for Bahrain.

Able to accommodate 72 seated guests, this venue allows you to enjoy the worldfamous fire-grilled Burger King Whoppers in an elegant and casual ambience.

Diners can also choose to have their meals personalised to suit individual tastes and preferences. If you’re in a hurry, then take advantage of the outlet’s drive-thru, just another example of Burger King’s dedication to customer satisfaction.

BTM August 2012 107

diningf&bhappenings THE K HOTEL

Spiritual Dining A leading four-star deluxe hotel in the Kingdom offers an unprecedented experience that suits the spirit of the Holy Month.

SUMO SUSHI & BENTO

It’s a Snap!

The Holy Month of Ramadan serves as a season of spiritual renewal and gratitude for the bounties bestowed upon all human beings. It is a time in which families become closer, communities strengthen their foundations and individuals reaffirm their spiritual roots. On this occasion, mark the auspicious month in the company of family and friends at The K Hotel.

Visitors will be part of a refreshingly different ambience, where they can break their fast, as the sun sets in the Arabian Gulf. In observance of Ramadan, the offers families, friends and colleagues a wide variety of dining options to enjoy Iftar and Ghabga.

Klouds Restaurant here is busy as they offer a feast for the senses with the sights, sounds, scents and tastes of a bountiful spread of delectable traditional Middle Eastern specialties in the grand Iftar buffet. Priced at BD11 per person including Ramadan beverages, the array of delicacies are available from sunset to 9pm. Groups of 10 and above can book tables with the hotel for a lavish Ghabga buffet which features authentic regional dishes that are packed with flavours and are nostalgic of a distinctive Arabic kitchen. It is priced at BD10++ per person, inclusive of Ramadan beverages.

The K Hotel is also pleased to offer special corporate and group bookings for both meal timings enabling organisations to meet and greet their clients and to further their bonding. They also provide an incentive for group bookings; with every group of 10, they offer a complimentary Iftar/Ghabga voucher. This Holy Month, this home of luxury and comfort serves as the ultimate destination for fostering the bonds of friendship with friends and associates. E Call 17 360-000 or visit www.thekhotel.com.

You’ll be taking pictures all summer, no doubt. One click with a restaurant chain mascot at your travel destination will bring you some exciting prizes.

Dining at your favourite restaurant today is more than just eating great food. Sumo Sushi & Bento offers excellent service, a wonderful atmosphere and an interactive social media experience.

Reaching over 1,000 followers on Facebook in July, Sumo Sushi & Bento is quickly growing its online presence as well.

With just a single click over the ‘Like’ button, fans of authentic and modern Japanese cuisine can be the first to find out about specials, coupons and contests. While running the second annual Ramadan family style dining special, the diner now wants to know where you will go on holiday this year.

Where’s Kenji?

Far and wide, Kenji is on the move this summer. Visit their website and find the “Where in the World is Kenji?” page to download your very own picture of him. Cut him out and take fun pictures of him and you on your travels.

Once you’ve got an amazing snap together at the Eiffel Tower, the Great Pyramids or wherever you may be, upload it onto their contest photo album on their Facebook page. They can’t wait to see where you take Kenji and to shower you with gifts.

E Call 17 718-090, visit www.sumosushi.net or Facebook.com/sumosushibento.

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ELITE CRYSTAL HOTEL

Lebanese Flavours

A new venue in Juffair welcomes the glory of the season by opening its doors on the first day of Eid. This is your chance to enjoy an authentic meal and more.

For a destimation that has played host to several successful events since its opening, it is only expected of Elite Crystal Hotel to bring out something exclusive for its patrons this Eid. They kick off the celebrations from the very first day by opening the doors to a brand new restaurant. Bringing a truly Middle Eastern atmosphere to Bahrain’s nightlife, Awtar promises to establish itself as an entertainment hotspot for the night prowlers of the Kingdom.

Following the success of Klub 360, the Elite Hospitality Group plans to provide the diversity in quality entertainment that Bahrain is in constant need of through this Lebanese venue.

The real deal Live Arabic music and entertainment is complemented by a rich selection of drinks and mouth-watering food at this happening venue. It aims to mermerise your senses with its genuinely Mediterranean atmosphere which is evident in every detail, from the décor and detailed design to the live music and the sound and lights. Add to this the conventional flavours in the food and you can completely experience the charm of Beirut.

An advantage of Awtar is that every guest has a view of everyone else in the venue, the stage and the dance floor regardless of where they are seated. It also boasts state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment enhancing the whole perception of the true essence of the Arabian world. Choose to be seated in the VIP area while you enjoy live performances by music groups.

You will be mesmerised by the almost magical entrance and the flavoursome cuisine on offer. The team here, from the chefs to the crew, brings home years of experience having worked in international five-star venues across the globe.

Whether you choose to don smart casuals or the national attire, you are welcome at Awtar where they promise you nothing less than a great evening out. They shall remain open daily from 6pm-2am, starting from the first day of Eid. You can even follow them on Facebook for details on their promotions; search for “Awtar Bahrain”.

E Call 17 360-360, 17 360-340 or 34 333-222.

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diningf&bhappenings Jim’s Restaurant

Meeting Expectations Adliya has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine, art and culture. There’s one restaurant here that has an interesting mix of them all.

The restaurant scene in Adliya has always been appealing with a variety of international cuisines to meet every gastronomical whim; Jim’s Restaurant has always been able to distinguish itself from the crowd. Effortlessly maintaining a tricky balance between casual and fine dining, this bistro sees a variety of customers who appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and excellent food.

The unique cottage feel and extended garden section, which brings the outdoors inside, allow for a cosy and inviting space where eating a meal out is not meant to be a rushed event but rather an experience to be enjoyed. From a party of three to a banquet of 40, Jim’s never fails to exceed expectations.

New on the menu The restaurant’s extensive menu includes a bevy of options designed to delight. In addition to the popular Anglo-Irish preparations, Jim’s has now added Indian recipes to its list of cuisines. These savoury dishes pack a flavourful punch which won’t leave guests going up in flames, unless of course requested.

The breakfast menu offers yet another set of delicious choices while the business lunch, priced at BD6.900, includes a starter, main course, dessert and beverage. Jim’s continues to offer favourites like the succulent leg of lamb and beef fillet. Popular among their patrons are the tempting fried brie cheese and their signature stuffed mushrooms. That being said, they also cater to weight watchers with an array of fresh, healthy salads.

Great food, a diverse menu that’s impeccably prepared, superb service, modest décor, and a charm of its own, make Jim’s Restaurant the place to be. E Call 17 710-654.

RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

New and Exciting Eid is just around the corner, and this hotel is intent on making your days and nights out an unforgettable experience.

Ramada Hotel Bahrain’s team of food specialists, headed by Executive Chef Roland Gossler, is introducing a new menu which will coincide with the reopening of The Exchange Restaurant & Pub. Feast on a wide range of delicious and mouth-watering dishes as you dine with family and friends.

You can also take advantage of rock bottom prices on selected beverages, during happy hours daily from 4pm to 9pm.

Liven up your evenings with the new resident band. The Mystique performs live Sundays to Fridays from 9pm onwards. Enjoy the dynamic beats as the band plays an electrifying mix of popular music, including rock, jazz, pop, and country, influenced by their travels around the globe.

Eid cakes From August 11 the Lobby Café will feature a varied selection of carefully made Eid cakes. Gift these delectable creations to friends who will be delighted. If you cannot bear to part with them, then eat or share them with your loved ones.

Oasis swimming pool Having undergone a summer renovation, the Oasis swimming pool is set to reopen; perfect timing for you to enjoy a dip and beat the heat. Simultaneously, the pool bar will also be introducing new menu items for your dining pleasure. Enjoy a dip in the pool with cooling refreshments and tasty bites from 10am to 7pm daily.

E Call 17 742-000.

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restaurantlisting American Bennigan’s Burger Lounge Burger Wisconsin Chili House Chili’s Franks a Lot Fuddruckers Hard Rock Café Johnny Rockets Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Ponderosa Steak Escape T.G.I.Friday’s Tony Luke’s Tony Roma's

17 813-750 77 055-772 17 594-458 17 580-045 17 581-221 17 811-970 17 742-266 17 291-569 17 566-565 17 725-550 17 580-552 17 178-464 17 179-041 17 494-940 17 870-070

Asian Chin Li Chop-Chop Tea House Curry Country Hot Wok House Boat Kontiki Memories Mo Kan Monsoon Nu Asia Panasia Papaya Peppers Rice Bowl

17 717-717 17 178-701 17 537-555 17 178-083 16 010-321 17 525-455 17 178-646 17 360-000 17 749-222 17 587-171 17 721-600 17 697-105 17 717-808 17 179-600

Skyw@lk Café World Beat Café

17 363-999 17 612-576

European Block 338 Camelot Coco’s Cyprus Taverna Déjà Vu L’Avenue Mezzaluna Paul Café Sizzlers Zytoun

17 710-338 17 717-745 17 716-512 17 716-316 13 657-770 17 567-222 17 742-999 17 172-321 17 716-999 17 298-471

Filipino Bahay Kubo Borakay Chuckay Fast Food Flamingo Kowloon Lutong Pinoy Quick Stomach Swan Lake Tops

17 231-996 17 514-400 17 532-250 17 231-106 17 224-357 17 295-540 17 232-382 17 291-655 17 237-768 17 277-665

Fusion Fusions L’Ile

17 746-427 17 845-000

Indian Aachi’s Chettinad Kitchen 17 233-110

Nando’s Rendezvous Salad Boutique The Crepe Café Upstairs Downstairs Zoe

17 825-339 17 178-712 36 664-427 17 820-722 17 713-093 17 176-400

International (5 Star Hotel) Al Safir Al Waha Al Wasmeyyah La Med La Mosaique Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya Saveur Selections Silk’s

17 524-538 17 746-425 17 535-000 17 580-000 17 531-122 17 525-214 17 845-000 17 636-410 17 171-000 17 227-777 17 460-055

International (4 Star Hotel) Café California Café Marisol Café Sayah Chaq’s Grill Fusion Café Grand Café Il Giardino Klouds La Brasserie La Café Le Cascada Le Jardin Neyran Palm Parsia Ramee Bistro Ramee Café Red Café Savoy Café Temptations (EGH) Temptations (ESH) Tiffany’s

Thai Chi Tian Wok Yum Chow!

17 179-747 17 717-080 17 636-415 17 744-900

Brazilian Brasa de Brasil Brazil Rodizio Grill

17 582-225 17 826-686

Chinese Beijing Chinese China Express China Garden Ching Foli Hong Kong Magic Wok Shanghai Hut Soie Spice Nice

17 717-969 17 717-439 17 746-423 17 564-424 17 722-199 17 728-700 17 506-070 17 292-988 17 533-533 17 713-603

Café Restaurants Café T Camille’s Sidewalk Café Delifrance Esquires Le Bateau Le Chocolat Lina’s Café Rosa Verge

17 750-777 17 339-508 17 696-031 77 177-660 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538 13 667-777

Akbar Asha’s Clay Oven Copper Chimney Curry Tree Hyderabad House It’s Mirchi Lanterns Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Spices The Yellow Chilli

17 296-660 17 179-751 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662 17 720-031 17 727-230 17 590-591 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 531-122 17 580-480

Indian/Pakistani B-B-Q Delights Chutney’s

17 564-282 17 591-259

International East West Cuisine Flair Healthy Calorie Jim’s Restaurant La Fontaine Links Little Chef/Wholesale Mei n Yu Muju

17 210-012 17 212-900 17 369-399 17 710-654 17 230-123 17 751-262 17 595-950 16 010-160 16 039-800

Arirang Da Rae Jung

17 290-945 17 002-490

Lebanese

17 826-001 17 701-201 17 224-000 17 290-555 17 811-688 17 727-230 17 583-388 17 360-000 17 313-333 17 810-555 17 360-360 17 742-000 17 584-400 17 296-699 17 814-777 17 290-600 17 297-000 17 296-660 17 827-999 17 565-888 17 558-888 17 716-999

Abd El Wahab Al Areesha Al Arz Al Hamra Palace Beyroute Café Blanc Carla’s Lebanese Bistro Leila L’Sultan Mashawi Lebanese Grill Qasr Al Sultan Grill Rayés Saj Express Shoo Fee Ma Fee Yamin Jana Zahle Zayt Zaytoon

17 524-579 17 369-269 17 811-511 17 580-600 17 746-431 17 555-989

Al Abraaj Al-Bokhari Leewan Al Khor

17 178-090 17 311-186 16 010-666

Melh Alzad Taza

17 311-170 17 784-997

17 131-111 17 725-414 17 296-660 17 224-000 17 280-111 17 100-069 17 697-687 17 711-772 17 567-222 17 506-070 17 179-500 17 312-700 17 365-055 17 311-280 16 033-800 17 746-417 17 312-222

Mexican Casa Mexicana Margarita Mexicana Senor Paco’s

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873

Middle Eastern

Iranian Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill

Korean

Totally Fish Waves

17 179-757 17 531-122

Shawarma Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

Steak Houses Klouds Le Relais De Venise Legendz Plums The Butcher Shop & Grill The Meat Co

17 360-000 17 567-222 17 227-777 17 580-000 17 172-323 17 742-080

Thai Baan Saeng Thai Banana Leaf Hash House Lanna Thai Muay Thai Orchid Thai Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

17 715-775 17 744-171 17 715-094 17 593-940 77 040-454 17 312-006 17 746-421 17 721-155 17 506-070 17 717-040 17 710-771

Turkish Anatolia Iskenderun Grill Kosebasi

17 690-601 17 292-950 17 172-322

Italian Bice Ristorante Café Italia Caffe Spasso Carino’s Italian Grill Castello Cico’s Ciro’s Pomodoro Cucina Italiana Fiamma Gusto

Italiano Justapasta La Pergola La Taverna Medzo Mia Mia Mino’s Pizzeria Mondo Nino Oliveto Pastarito Ristoranti Prego Primavera Roma Romano’s Macaroni Grill Vapiano Veneto

17 533-666 17 744-774 17 822-274 17 587-878 17 697-552 17 713-710 17 534-567 17 001-317 17 636-363 17 695-556 17 581-919 17 506-070 17 746-419 17 229-979 17 227-777 17 564-414 17 744-777 17 525-484 17 566-555 17 716-747 17 179-300 17 751-263 17 580-000 17 725-885 17 723-818 17 491-391 17 680-967

Japanese Bushido Edo Frangipani Fuji Sushi Bar Hakisushi Kei Maki Mirai Sato Sugoi Sumo Sushi & Bento Sushi 101 Yo! Sushi

17 583-555 17 290-945 17 582-422 17 533-336 17 725-638 17 533-450 17 522-733 17 713-113 17 746-429 17 178-084 17 718-090 17 822-274 17 583-373

Moroccan Momo Le Marrakech

17 180-659 17 003-273

Pizza Domino's Little Caesars Margherita Pizza and Pasta Metro Pizza Papa John’s Pick a Pizza Pizza Express Pizza Hut Pizza Inn Pizzabella The Pizza Company

17 826-222 17 179-400 17 723-133 17 794-000 17 581-516 17 720-929 17 742-299 17 711-113 17 811-666 17 827-133 17 811-830 17 586-555

Seafood Afandi Far East Seafood Market Fish Market La Marine La Mer La Perle Seafood Market

17 506-070 17 713-778 17 257-778 17 506-070 17 587-828 17 241-111 17 131-414 17 178-084 17 243-115 17 727-887 17 711-111 17 717-542 17 178-436 17 221-722 17 161-716 17 714-972

Eating Out listings

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

Quick Service Restaurants Burger King Burgerland Chickey’s DQ Grill & Chill Elevation Burger EZ Take out Burger Fatburger Hardee’s Herfy Jasmi’s Kentucky Fried Chicken Kudu New York Fries McDonald’s Pollo Campero Tasty Bite

17 849-111 17 727-230 17 701-201 17 595-775 17 636-411 17 298-008 17 533-336

Note: Whilst every effort is made to cover all leading restaurant outlets in Bahrain, the details listed are based upon replies to our survey. BTM cannot accept any responsibility or liability for inaccurate information: we recommend you check with the restaurant to reconfirm their listing.

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afterdarkthismonth

Crash Landing in Dublin!

Elma Bartholomew If you’re ready to have a good time and enjoy entertainment at its finest, then head down to one of the best Irish-American pubs in town after Ramadan; you are in for a treat.

New arrivals, Crash Motion, join forces with the wellestablished resident DJ Conny at Dublin in Ramee Palace, to create an unstoppable entertainment ensemble. Born and raised in Canada, this band covers all styles of music.

From hip hop to dance hits and pop to classics, you name it; they can rock them all. What sets them apart from their rivals is an unmatched repertoire of new music, which keeps the crowds coming back to party again and again.

However, that’s not news to the popular Irish-American pub that remains jam-packed night after night.

When a new band makes an appearance at your favourite club, you are bound to be suspicious of their success. However, if this lively septet is on that stage, you ought to be prepared to be amazed by the dexterity of the musicians as well as the versatility of the front line from day one.

Leading the pack is no easy business; although Simon, Valerie and Sabrina prove otherwise. Fronting the band, the powerpacked trio keep the rock aficionados happy with classics from the likes of AC/DC, Metallica and Nirvana. Wait a while and you’ll find the dance floor shaking with their renditions of Also this month

favourites from Shakira, Rihanna and plenty more chart toppers.

While the vibrant vocals win over the crowd at Dublin, four men show off their musical skills. Marc leads the team with his guitar prowess; Karl backs him up at the bass. Gluing them together is Michael on the keys. It isn’t a band without a drummer and Guillaume is a pretty good one at that, completing a dream line-up. The energy pumping from the stage will get you dancing from the very first song until the very last one. Feel free to scream “encore” or slip in a request or two. Their selection of songs is endless as it is; try them.

This might be the most complete international showband on the circuit. Their work has been featured in video games and they have worked alongside many celebrity artists. From Canada to USA and United Arab Emirates to South East Asia, Crash Motion has covered the globe with stunning performances. If you think that doesn’t prove their excellence, come have a look yourself. You’ll be hooked for sure.

Crash Motion

Viva la Musica!

Experience a meat lover’s paradise and a salute to good music at Brasa de Brazil Churrascaria. For an authentic Brazilian experience visit this popular venue located in the new extension of Seef Mall.

Here you’ll get a taste of delicious Brazilian cuisine every time you visit.

On August 30, prepare for even more than what you bargained for, when the venue will be hosting another ‘Music Night’ for everyone who missed it the first time around. Sit down, relax and enjoy live music by Amigos Y Musica, which is sure to get you up and moving.

Special promotions All that dancing calls for a drink, try out their signature cocktails. The ever-popular ladies’ nights are back three nights a week on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays with free, unlimited beverages from the Citrus Chic menu. Happy hours continue to run daily from 5-9pm, with a 20 per cent discount on all food and beverages.

E Call 39 736-547 or visit www.Facebook.com/Dublin Club Bahrain.

114 x Happenings

BTM August 2012 113

afterdarkhappenings RAMEE CALIFORNIA HOTEL

Creating an Energetic Vibe Atomic Milkshake, a seven-piece all-American band from Los Angeles, explodes all over the most popular Wild West pub in Bahrain from the first day of Eid. Having just completed a six-month gig in Shenyang in China, Atomic Milkshake, which gained the labels of club superstars and local celebrities, received such an overwhelming response that its people are already looking to bring them back to the mainland. However, Club Buffalo has won this battle and brings this mix of diverse music styles to its stage.

Fronted by Steve ‘Slim Boogaloo’ Miller, Linzee and Sharon, this all-American band takes you on a musical journey that crosses a lot of territories. Steve covers everything from cutting edge hip-hop to rap songs; watch out for his Michael Jackson impersonation.

Linzee is their saucy pop diva, bringing her unique flavour of street and sweet tracks. A must-see is her performance of Nirvana’s Smells like Teen Spirit. Just don’t expect it to be generic; from Jill Scott to Katy Perry, Linzee always adds her own touch.

Sharon is the band’s secret weapon.

A stunning beauty with a surprisingly powerful voice, she takes on the more traditional vocal chores. No melodic acrobatics or crazy choreography, just pure singing; all the time letting you know that the voice is the star. The singers are supported by Randall at the keys, an established producer, and the best salsa dancer in the group, Sammy ‘Punky’ Balfour, a beast on the drums with his own show within the show.

Zack is a Berklee grad guitarist with serious jazz and gospel chops. He looks forward to showing you his take on Sweet Child of Mine. CJ is the bassist, second keyboardist and an amazing vocalist with a voice that is a cross between Marvin Gaye and Neo. Are you ready to dance?

E Call 39 688-207.

Atomic Milkshake

bystanderthismonth

A&E Evening OF Fine Vintage African & Eastern invited a number of guests to sample the fine vintage of Douglas Green Bellingham at the Kontiki Restaurant, Diplomat Radisson Blu, Residence & Spa Panos, Kate, Michel, Michael, Shelley & Peter

Franncesco & Kate

Aiden & Shelley

114 August 2012 BTM

Mithi & Jan

Debbie, Rob & Panos

Mohammed & Tony

Kate, Agnes & Aaron

Adriana & Dieter

Kate & Ashley

Mo & Nilantha

Fareed & Shelley

Qahtan & Hisham

PARS INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

Pump Up the Volume Throughout Ramadan, a four-star hotel has proved that it’s more than just a hub of entertainment. With Eid just around the corner, they’re all set to bring back the madness.

It is a known fact that Pars International Hotel has everything to make your stay in the Kingdom something to remember.

Offering great service and quite a few dining options, it is an abode of comfort and modernity. Moreover, this four-star deluxe is most popular for its entertainment options and it is guaranteed that guests will be spoilt for choice this Eid. Parsia Situated in the lobby is an impressive coffee shop and restaurant that remains open 24 hours a day. Offering a variety of delicacies in Continental and Arabic flavours, this venue arranges a sumptuous breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet for its guests on a daily basis. On the three days of Eid, they invite you to have a go at their special brunch and dinner buffet at BD6 including a soft drink or canned juice.

exciting culinary experience. The warm ambience and comfortable sofas make this location not to be missed.

However, one feature that makes Latin Quarter a must-visit is the sensational live Colombian band, Latin Swing, that will entertain the crowd with foot tapping numbers from 8pm onwards starting on the first day of Eid. Men will need to spend an entry fee of BD3 while ladies walk in for free.

Z-Club A venue that hardly needs an introduction, Z-Club is one place where it’s always the time to party. While in-house DJ Arvin mixes tunes from around the globe, the Oriental band, Blur, sets the pace for the evening with tracks from every genre. The entry fee is the same as at Boomers for men, but ladies can walk in for free.

Latin Quarter If you’re here for more than a good meal, head upstairs to Latin Quarter where you can find the best of two worlds, dining and entertainment. This modern yet trendy lounge-restaurant offers a spectacular view of the Marina bay as well.

Home to some tasty tapas and luscious cocktails, this venue is most popular for its live music and the opportunity to shake a leg, Latino style. With the special menu, the chef delivers an

Boomers Relax after a hard day’s toil with a colleague or friend and sip on a few of the world’s favourite cocktails, mocktails and other drinks to make your day complete. Making sure you’re having a good time is the new resident band, Noty Notes, which will perform electrifying tracks all night long. Enter at BD3 from 6-9pm and at BD5 after 9pm. Ladies, it’s your night every Friday.

E Call 17 814-777.

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bystanderthismonth

Resurrection - Heavy Metal Night For the first time ever, three heavy metal bands rocked the house at Rocky’s Café at the Ramee International Hotel in Juffair. Resurrection Bahrain’s only Metal Night, featured Nervecell, who last year, opened for Metallica in front of 30,000 people in Abu Dhabi, Motör Militia and Smouldering In Forgotten (SIF), gave heavy metal music fans a night to remember

Sujith, Rajeev, Edward & Naveen

Naji, Zeeshan, Nooh, Bu-Irees & Ahmed

Nervecell brings down the house!

Sd, Tessa & Youssef

Mishal, Hamani, Cannabil, Jesus, Fries & Abdulrahman

Jits, Johann & Ali

Sal, Paul & James

Mohamed & Crystal

Fate & Aysha

Tracy & Vinod

Cucino Italina Evening Of Fine Vintage A number of people enjoyed an evening of tasting a selection of fine vintage at the Cucino Italina Restaurant, Al Safir Hotel, Juffair last month

Alex & Peter

Sam, Jennifer, Verna, Nigesh, Chloe, Mariann & Bella

Siobhan & Jerri

116 August 2012 BTM

Laura & Helen

Nigesh, Kate & Daniel

Peter, Peter & Ronald

Sona & Antie

Elly & Charlie

Fifi & Kate

Emma

Nigesh

Leather aroma A new fragrance available for men epitomises masculinity, personality and strength. Mandarina Duck Black is an eau de toilette for seductive and self-confident men and reflects the brand’s new leatherwear collections with musky undertones.

Available at leading retailers.

What’s New Edited by Alison Coldridge

Youthful complexion Fair and square The intriguing new Audacy watch from Saint Honore features a square, asymmetric shape with a bold, innovative design. Its enchanting design reflects a multifaceted, feminine world, with its couture styling, collection of dials and sparkling diamonds.

Available at A La Mode.

Sisley’s first major anti-ageing skincare product for the body is great at prompting firmness, to combat the visible effects of skin ageing and allow women to recover the appearance of a younger and more toned body. Available at leading retailers.

Click and shoot The new Olympus VG-170 packs a host of features into an affordable, compact camera body. If you shop around, this camera falls firmly into budget compact territory but with amazing premium functions. You can take 3D photos, HD videos and a 5x optical zoom that starts from a usefully wide 26mm. Available at Gajria Electronics.

Festive adornments Bvlgari’s Monete collection invites you to dress up for your Eid celebrations with jewellery such as this dazzling drop necklace. Boasting mother of pearl, an antique silver coin and pavé diamonds, there is simply no accessory to rival this one. Available at Bvlgari.

BTM August 2012 117

marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

Strength in Innovation If a handshake says a lot about a person, an individual’s watch can tell you so much more. Officine Panerai collections allow you to do just that!

For a statement timepiece look no further than Officine Panerai’s new and unique watch — Tuttonero. Stylishly designed, it boasts a Luminor 1950 case and the classic Panerai bracelet in ceramics.

Made entirely of matt black ceramic, this watch makes an extraordinary aesthetic impact on first glance. The beauty of its design is enhanced by its faithfulness to the Panerai identity, as it is constructed using only the most advanced technologies in the field of materials.

The Tuttonero Luminor 1950 revels in matt black, which is found in its every detail. Matt black can be found in the Luminor 1950 case with a diameter of 44mm and the lever device protecting the winding crown. Even the dial, which is of sandwich construction, is matt black. Like the numeral and hour markers, the four hands are covered with ecru Super-LumiNova, which ensures excellent legibility even in the dark.

The automatic mechanical movement — P.9001/B calibre — includes a power reserve of three days, date, second time zone, zero reset seconds hand and power reserve indication on the movement; all of which is visible through the sapphire crystal on the back.

The bracelet Uncompromising in its style, the Tuttonero bracelet too is made entirely of matt black ceramic. The links are formed and finished by the same processes as the case and then attached to a PVD-coated brushed steel buckle.

Every individual link is asymmetrical and possesses curved surfaces that enhance the overall soft nature and effective performance of the bracelet. The design of the bracelet itself is the result of lengthy research dedicated to preserving the fluidity of the piece.

The ceramic touch Something so unique is definitely the result of a complex series of working and finishing processes. All of these procedures are necessary in order to acquire the particularly uniform and even appearance of the Tuttonero, as well as the high degree of hardness.

The ceramic used by Officine Panerai is a synthetic material based on zirconium oxide powDer. It is five times harder than stainless steel and is resistant to not only scratches and corrosive agents but high temperatures as well.

The Tuttonero is available at Asia Jewellers in Moda Mall.

E Call 17 535-444

118 August 2012 BTM

PHOENICIA DÉCOR

The Great Outdoors Make the most of the Kingdom’s glorious weather by furnishing your outdoor space as stylistically as you do your interior.

If you are happy with the way your house looks inside, it may be time to consider the state of the outdoor furniture. Take advantage of the heat of the summer months and opt to spend time in your garden whilst entertaining guests seated on modern and comfortable furniture.

Phoenicia Décor has recently been stocked with the most contemporary outdoor collections, including sets and separate pieces finished with aluminium structure, teak wood or sanded glass.

So whether you are on the hunt for seating, dining options or just some alfresco inspiration then be sure to stop by the brand’s large showroom in Seef. You will find copious options of ways to furnish your outdoor space with sophistication and panache, enabling you to build a place of comfort and relaxation outside.

Madrid Dining table

Madrid Dining Table Why not take your meals outside to enjoy the cooler evening air? The Madrid Dining Table is ideal for up to six people to dine at and features an easily cleanable surface. Built with an aluminium structure, the legs and arms can be wiped clean and will not rust or wear down quickly.

Una Luna Chair The most chic homes are always the most modern, as shown by this compact chair. The ultimate lounging seat, the Luna Chair is designed to perfectly suit the curve of your body and invites you to entirely relax within its clutches.

Made from white teak wood, the chair looks appealing and will stay refreshingly cool by absorbing as little of the sun’s rays as possible.

Zen Special Sofa Elevated from ground level on a glossy wooden base, this spacious L-shaped sofa provides the perfect seating arrangement for cosy evenings with family and friends. With room enough for up to six adults, this style ensures everyone’s comfort whilst simultaneously looking aesthetically pleasing.

Use the excess end space to displays things or as additional coffee table space.

Zen Special sofa

Una Luna chair

Rapido Sun Lounge Bed If you like to soak up the rays to flaunt a bronzed glow, then be sure to sunbathe in style. The Rapido Sun Lounge Bed ensures maximum comfort so that you can wile away the hours with absolutely no discomfort. Place the lounger on any terrain and alter the level of the backrest to your liking.

BTM August 2012 119

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MONSOON

Maximum Impact Nothing makes an outfit dapper like when it is teamed with the perfect hobo or clutch. This summer, dare to pull off glitter or flaunt your leather collection.

120 August 2012 BTM

From chic clutches, printed purses, sublime shoulder bags and work bags to luxurious leather bags and beautiful bejewelled handbags; Monsoon has something to suit every style and occasion.

Its true heritage and global inspiration can be seen further into the season. The prints are more exotic and eclectic, mixing oversized bold paisley with intricate tapestry shapes for a show-stopping effect.

Rich mahogany and sapphire combine with raspberry and mauve to create an invigorating palette. A glamorous faux fur gilet, worn over a simple day dress with intricate prints needs nothing more than a premium tote and cute pumps to complete

the look. Shopping here now should be considered an investment as the pieces seem to go well with the upcoming autumn/winter trends.

Their eveningwear exudes both romance and femininity through delicate fabrics such as lace and sheer satin, curvy silhouettes and sleek tailored lines. Embellishment is in abundance with almost every piece creating a kaleidoscope of colours and sparkle. Rich jewel tones are complemented by soft pearl highlights, while cosmetic tones of soft blush and nude combine with gentle metallic tints for a rich, antique feel.

E Call 17 581-804 (Seef) or 17 179-710 (Bahrain City Centre).

VLCC

Change You Can See When your weight becomes a source of daily challenges, take your first step towards regaining control of your life without resorting to drastic measures.

When it first started up, more than two decades ago, VLCC hoped to provide the world with a reputable holistic wellness service. In order to do so, it sought to cleverly marry scientific research and traditional therapies.

The result has since met with overwhelming success and acclaim. VLCC is now an icon in its field, and bears a reputation for being the biggest and most recognisable wellness brand in the region.

With over 225 centres, a strong network across nine countries and more than 6,000 qualified slimming specialists, the brand has satisfied in excess of ten million customers around the world.

Natural beauty The idea of applying harsh chemicals and toxins to your skin in pursuit of beauty seems oddly incompatible at times. Instead, seek an alternate path, which promotes natural beauty therapies and treatments.

All of VLCC’s treatments are developed in-house and are designed to get you looking and feeling your best naturally. In order to eliminate the risk of any negative side effects all treatments undergo rigorous testing before public use. From the most basic beauty solutions to highly specialised beauty treatments, every service is delivered by an expert.

Cosmetologists, dermatologists and therapists are all on-hand to deal with your beauty woes using holistic methods.

Slimming solutions Your weight can have an adverse effect on your life, affecting the way in which you are perceived, the activities you can and cannot do, your self-esteem and the way you approach different situations. Individuals who are struggling with their weight will find comfort in the VLCC programme, helping them shed pounds and regain confidence.

Nutritionists will work with customers to guide them through the entire weight loss process. Customers will focus on the essential nature of a proper diet and functional daily routine, with the help of specialists who understand the importance of open communication.

Consequently, people will not feel the need to seek recourse through surgeries, crash diets, medicines, hunger suppressants and strenuous exercise, all of which can be harmful to the body and provoke side effects.

VLCC’s slimming system strives to become an integral part of the everyday life of customers. The intent is to educate and support an individual throughout the entire weight loss journey.

E Call 17 684-880 or 17 404-354.

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marketplace

YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Luscious Tresses

Nothing enhances an outfit more than a great hairdo; get a salon-professional look from the comfort of your own house with simple-to-use products.

Every girl knows that when it comes to beauty essentials, hair care products are top of the priority list. With the right equipment you can transform dull and lifeless hair to voluminous and glossy locks.

Internationally recognised home appliance brand Severin is a household name when it comes to everything electronic. The German brand is constantly adding to its reputed repertoire and boasts a quality assured range of hair care gadgets!

Hairdryers From regular, sports and travel to a mini version, the Severin range of hairdryers has something for everyone. Making hair styling that much simpler, you can dry your hair perfect in a matter of moments. The right power and temperature settings guarantee fast and gentle hair drying whether you’re sporting a fashionable short style or long luscious locks.

Curling tongs There is always something beautifully feminine about a woman with curls in her hair. Opt for curling tongs to create spiralling curls to highlight your hair’s natural beauty. With Severin, varied waves, single-curled strands and a full head of curls are easy to fashion.

122 August 2012 BTM

Curling irons The star among hair styling products transforms straight hair into voluminous, beautifully glossy curls, waves, curly highlights or full-on corkscrew curls in a matter of minutes. And with a little practise, you can even achieve the opposite result and smooth out frizzy hair until it is sleek and straight.

Roller sets For salon quality bouncy curls and soft waves, you can use a Severin roller set to create the latest styles in minutes. The benefit — the electrically warmed rollers dry your hair really gently, so you don’t need to fret about damaging your hair. The result is naturally beautiful hair which comes with a healthy shine.

Hair clippers If you didn’t already know, the secret behind fashionable short hair styles and evenly trimmed hair sections are good quality hair clippers. These handy machines are perfect for creating amazing effects and adding structure to your hair. It is also easy to sculpt contours around the neck and ears for precision styling and high fashion looks.

E Call 17 408-150.

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Reduce Your Risk

Many factors play a role in cancer development, but the good news is that most of them can be avoided.

Dr Tarek Ali M El-Gohary

Bahrain This Month sits down with consultant medical oncologist Dr Tarek Ali M El-Gohary to discuss eight practical tips to reduce your risk. “People at risk can help protect themselves by avoiding factors where possible and by getting regular check-ups so that, if cancer develops, it is likely to be found early. With a few simple lifestyle changes, risk of many types of cancer can be reduced,” says the doctor.

Smoking Smoking is the most significant risk factor that we can reduce. It is responsible for not only lung cancer, but many other types. One of the best ways to prevent the disease is to quit smoking. “People need to know that it is never too late, your body immediately reaps the benefits of being tobacco-free,” explains Dr Tarek.

Sunlight Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. The first step for prevention is to avoid UV ray exposure. This can be done by wearing sunscreen, avoiding midday sun, wearing protective clothing when outdoors and staying away from tanning beds.

Diet Studies show that dark fruits, like blueberries and grapes, may also have anti-cancer properties. Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage appear to pack a powerful punch at preventing cancer, according to numerous studies. A diet high in animal fat increases the risk for several types of cancer, particularly that of the colon.

Alcohol Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol regularly increases the likelihood of many types of cancers. Studies suggest that men

who consume two alcoholic drinks per day and women who have one alcoholic drink per day significantly increase their risk.

Exercise Did you know that exercising is one of the most efficient cancer prevention methods? The American Cancer Society recommends exercising 30 minutes, at least five days a week for cancer prevention.

Family history If you know that a certain type of cancer runs in your family, let your doctor know. Together, you can determine a proper screening plan and assess your true risk. “Genetic testing and counselling is available and may be recommended based on your family's medical history,” adds Dr Tarek.

Sex Unsafe sex can result in getting infected with human papilloma virus (HPV), a known cause for cervical cancer and a risk factor for many other types of cancer. A vaccine to prevent HPV was approved by the FDA in 2006 and protects against four strains of HPV that are associated with cervical cancer and other types.

Cancer screening Screening tests like the colonoscopy and pap smear can detect abnormal cellular changes before they turn cancerous. Other screening tests are available and may be useful for early detection, but not necessarily cancer prevention. Prostate cancer screening through digital rectal exams and PSA tests can help detect prostate cancer early. Mammograms and other imaging tools are also recommended to detect breast cancer in women.

E Call 17 812-000

BTM August 2012 123

marketplace BOCONCEPT

Urban Luxury If you’re looking for the perfect centrepiece to add in your living space, a newly launched modular sofa concept guarantees it will fit in any room.

Modern, casual lounging is given a new dimension with the Carmo sofa from BoConcept.

At first sight, the compact design with low backs and big seats is voluminous and masculine, but a closer look reveals a refined sense of detail that softens the whole expression of the sofa.

The details are in the characteristic piping on the sofa edges.

As the designer behind the creation, Anders Nørgaard explains, “I guess we have given the upholsterer an interesting challenge when we added piping to the edges of the sofa. It helps to define the shape of the settee in a very decorative way. It’s an exclusive detail.”

It was important to carry through this characteristic though.

First of all, the sofa can be placed freely in any room. This is also because the Carmo sofa is a modular system of units that can be put together in many different ways.

Open-ended modules can be placed unreservedly in the middle or at the end of the sofa, thereby creating completely different looks.

The comfort factor is high no matter how you choose to rest on this couch. The armrests have the same height and soft padding at the back so you will be just as comfortable leaning against the armrest. Available in more than 80 fabrics and leathers, there are eight fully upholstered seating units to play with when customising your own Carmo sofa.

Find out more in the BoConcept store near The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain in Seef.

E Call 17 564-319 or visit www.boconcept.com.

ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Safer Alternatives One of the biggest hospitals in Bahrain offers the best in non-invasive options to replace traditional surgeries.

124 August 2012 BTM

The introduction of endoscopic surgery into the medical field has widely improved the quality of care that a patient receives in a hospital. Dr Stephen Angamuthu, consultant general surgeon at Royal Bahrain Hospital (RBH), has recently performed a bariatric surgery on one of his patients.

Using a minimally-invasive approach resulted in less hospital stay time, minimal scarring, less bleeding and less downtime for his patient. Endoscopy is also applied to the field of ears, nose and throat medicine (ENT). Dr Shalabh Sharma, senior consultant ENT, and Dr Avneesh Kumar, senior specialist ENT, often perform a high-skill level endoscopic DCR. This is a surgery that treats patients with a tear duct that remains blocked and needs to be opened; the procedure leaves no scarring.

At RBH, knee arthroscopies are also carried out using noninvasive techniques. These surgeries are performed by Dr Syeed Ahmed Ibrahim, consultant orthopedic surgeon, and Dr Abdul Gaffar Sheikh Ahmed, senior consultant orthopedic surgeon.

Over the years, this procedure has managed to replace traditional techniques used in the past; resulting in fewer incisions to be made and swifter recovery periods.

The department of urology also performs endoscopies. Dr Ravisankar Pillai, specialist urologist, performs urethra endoscopies in order to remove kidney stones. This procedure doesn’t require any incisions, and makes the removal of kidney stones a much simpler process than by traditional methods.

The combination of state-of-the-art facilities and high-skill doctors and surgeons at RBH allows them to offer a plethora of endoscopic surgeries that make patient care more comfortable.

E Call 17 246-800 or visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com.

ELITE GRANDE HOTEL

A Grand Affair Bahrain This Month sits down with the general manager of one of the Kingdom's most lavish hotels to hear of his plans and vision for the future.

Fadl Adib

A part of the Elite group, Elite Grande Hotel is modern, luxurious and located right in the middle of the Kingdom’s business and tourism hub. The venue has remained popular within Bahrain’s hotel industry and the new general manager plans to keep it that way.

Joining the Elite group in 2002, Fadl Adib has, over the years, worked himself up the corporate ladder the old fashioned way — with sheer hard work and dedication. He first joined as front office manager, went on to become executive assistant manager for Elite Suites and Elite Resort & Spa then handled Elite Grande as assistant general manager.

Having been in the industry for almost 16 years, Fadl’s experience helped him steer Elite Grande to where it stands today.

“Over the years I’ve managed to specialise in almost every hotel and hospitality sector. My experiences include room division and strategic planning, profit and loss management, hotel administration, accounts maintenance as well as food and beverage management,” explains the general manager.

Of course, there is no rest for the wicked; Fadl is already in the process of re-branding the hotel’s coffee shop and plans to

open a new outlet in the near future. “Elite Grande is already one of the industry leaders in the country. My plan is to make it further stand strong in the market and be the ultimate leader of the hospitality services. I also want to convey that it is a unique destination for business travellers and tourists,” he explains.

For those who have stayed in the hotel, the unique experience that Fadl speaks of is evident. Visitors can instantly feel the lavishness with the hotel’s superbly appointed rooms, modern amenities, attentive service and recreational facilities.

“I think our service is also what sets us apart. From the moment you stand before the hotel doors and receive a warm greeting from the staff, you can feel the difference. It is important to deliver a dose of, well, elite style,” Fadl says.

Among the many Elite Grande facilities is the always busy Zodiac Lounge. Located on the 11th floor, the lounge is an ideal place to connect, network and get your weekend started.

“This venue boasts a creative cocktail list, an extensive wine and cognac menu, soothing music, as well as the latest sports, music and fashion trends on LED screens. Moreover, the lounge allows you to unwind after a long week’s work with a stunning city view and an exotic menu,” he says. E Call 17 565-888.

BTM August 2012 125

marketplace ROCHE BOBOIS

Bringing Style Home Confession

Egos

Astrolab

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS BAHRAIN

A New Generation Hotel Whether for business or pleasure, the newly opened 20-storey hotel on Exhibition Road, backed by a strong team, makes for a perfect retreat; a chance to stay here cannot be ignored.

126 August 2012 BTM

A defining anchor piece is all it takes to bring the striking factor to a room. Here are three modish items for the house-proud amongst us.

If there’s one home furnishing store that knows just how to make your décor stand out as compared to others’, it has got to be Roche Bobois with its signature designer pieces. The perfect example of a distinctive item is the Confession sofa from their Nouveaux Classiques collection. Designed by R Tapinassi and M Manzoni, this couch is upholstered in matières fabric. The grey stain hue adds richness to your interiors.

The duo has also come up with an extraordinary bed which has an unusually shaped, yet extremely cosy, quilted headboard.

This works perfectly well for those rooms where a bed isn’t something you push against the wall.

The Egos bed demands attention and it looks best when surrounded by neutral colours.

It’s chic and contemporary; what more do you need to spruce up your bedroom? An added benefit is that it is available in various dimensions suiting the area restrictions of every home.

While that makes for a stunning piece in your living room, the Astrolab dining table from their Les Contemporains collection is more than just dramatic. Demanding a modish feel to everything around it, the table boasts polished aluminium legs that balance a glass plate.

Two motorised extension leaves are operated by a visible mechanised cog system, resulting in a futuristic appearance.

Add a bright and contrasting shade of chairs and rugs to make it pop. Minimal is more with this item. E Call 17 582-901.

Comfort and convenience are top priorities on every traveller’s mind. That’s why the Holiday Inn Express Bahrain is designed around your unique needs. Before you head out for your busy day, be sure to visit the complimentary hot buffet breakfast.

With a 24-hour business corner and high-speed Internet access, they ensure you can work undisturbed around the clock. Join your friends over a sumptuous meal at the hotel’s Great Room restaurant or over a few drinks at the Lounge Bar. You can even stock up your mini-fridge with snacks from their 24-hour kiosk.

Holiday Inn Express also boasts the popular Priority Club Rewards. This loyalty programme makes sure that as a guest of any InterContinental Hotels Group hotel, you have the opportunity to earn points that you can redeem for hotel stays, airline miles and more. Enjoy special rates for the month of August offered in the spirit of Ramadan. Although it assures the comfort of home in 274 rooms, this venue attempts to replicate your business atmosphere through three distinct meeting rooms.

“Marketing a new franchise in a mushrooming market is always a challenge,” admits Nadeem Abu Hantash, senior sales manager. “However, when you’re equipped with a business of such a global stature as Holiday Inn Express, it gives us a likely edge to win a solid client base.”

Backing him in this venture is Joan Culpa, as sales coordinator, and Leah Pascual and Saghir Alam as sales executives. “Our focus is to brand our hotel as the leader in its market. The key is to maintain high standards in everything that we do, which we succeed in on a daily basis,” adds Alam.

E Call 17 313-030.

SYED JUNAID

The Wonders of Oud

A material as ancient as the art of perfumery itself, Oud, or agarwood is one of the most popular ingredients in fine perfumery today.

Bahraini perfume house Junaid for Perfumes harnesses the qualities of many natural products to produce aromatic scents that entice customers to return again and again. One such ingredient is a resin extracted from the heart of the agarwood trees, called oud.

“Oud has been used in cultures across Asia and the Middle East for over 4,000 years. With its warm and balancing properties, it has been notably used as an incense, aromatic oil and has even been claimed to be used as a medicinal cure for ailments and diseases,” says Hamad Fuad, director of marketing and sales at Junaid for Perfumes.

The use of this product has been a part of traditional legacy of perfume making at Junaid for Perfumes. While oud is burned in mubakhar for fragrance, oud oil, or dehn-al-oud, is packaged in a bottle as a personal fragrance. The rising demand of oud and oud-based fragrances and oils are a testament that the unique and luxurious fragrances are here to stay.

“In Bahrain, the burning of oud is a traditional gesture for welcoming and honouring guests. From creating a warm ambience indoors to being burned on special occasions — ceremonial, religious or otherwise, the tradition of burning it is customary in almost all households across the Middle East,” explains Hamad.

Since its establishment in 1910, Junaid for Perfumes’

innovative creations have portrayed the sheer blend of the authentic past and creative present. Over the years Junaid has cultivated this ‘gift of nature’ into an exclusive collection of scents; with enhanced properties, better quality and a growing reputation spanning the globe.

Through meticulous attention to detail and continuous product innovation, oud has transcended the boundaries of tradition and pushed itself to a whole new level of consumer appreciation.

“Generally, the sales rise sharply during the month of Ramadan, before both the Eids and during the wedding season as well as it is burned auspiciously during special occasions,” continues Hamad. From its earliest creation of ‘Oud Junaid’ in 1910, Junaid has produced a number of creations that have combined its richness with a variety of other fragrances and essential oils, resulting in perfumes with a very unique appeal.

“With evolving trends over the years, a number of western infused oud fragrances have been created that best suit the needs of our customers’ demands, whilst at the same time retaining the traditional aspect of itself,” adds Hamad.

Along with treasured pure oud creations like ‘Al Oud’ and ‘Dehn Al Oud’ and the recent addition of ‘Raasikh’ and ‘Hajar Oud’, Junaid for Perfumes has succeeded in positioning its products as distinctive and unique fragrances of high quality.

E Call17 737-007.

BTM August 2012 127

marketplace CREATIVE CLOSETS

Smart and Stylish An innovative company ensures that every customer’s design needs are considered when creating the perfect, and personalised, storage solution.

With two branches in the Kingdom, the self-titled ‘space scientists’ at Creative Closets are proving their success both in Bahrain and throughout the Middle East. In business for 15 years, the company believes in fully coordinating with the customer’s closet needs, delivering innovative solutions for storage issues. The market leader has four factories and eight showrooms in Saudi Arabia; four showrooms and a factory in the United Arab Emirates, a showroom and a huge factory in India and a strong presence in Lebanon and Bahrain, so you won’t have to wait too long to receive your customised closet.

Innovative solutions Creative Closets works closely with the client and specialises in customisable closets, allowing you to design your dream home for your clothes. Unique design materials are used including sandblasted and decorated glass for a stylish appearance.

Constantly working on pioneering ways to improve the existing services, the team also configures how to provide the best value for money, and for space, for their customers.

To ensure they are on the path to designing exactly what the customer wants, they provide a detailed artist’s impression of what their closet will look like, entirely free of charge.

The company aims to expand further in the coming years, with new showrooms in Egypt, Qatar and numerous countries in Europe. With an ethos to maximise space and minimise costs, it’s an ideal solution to get everything you need from a closet.

E Call 17 466-539 (Arad) or 17 610-612 (Hamala).

bystanderthismonth

SKAL Club Dinner The SKAL Club hosted a dinner reception at The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa last month.

The members also held a tree planting ceremony at the hotel

Mohammed Buzizi & Jano Mouawad

Charbel Hanna, Fares Yactine & Steven

Mr & Mrs Sharma

Riyadh Maskati, Khalil Zaman, Waheed & Cynthia

Mohammed Buzizi with members at the tree planting

128 August 2012 BTM

Imbi & Yousif

Sadiq Dawani & Ross Holden

Maica & Fadi

Al Sammak

Julie

KIPLING

Be Cool at School!

Brand-new prints, innovative protection and goodbye to heavy straps! This new back-to-school range has all the answers.

You may never be able to banish those pesky ‘first day of school’ jitters, but Kipling can inject a little cool into your children’s daily bag-wear. Going back to school needn’t mean being boring any more! Quality crinkled nylon new shapes and stylish modernisation have brought this range into the 21st century. Pick up a diamond print pattern for the girly-girl at home, a badge print for your tough little guy or a cute monkey backpack for your toddler.

Your kids will be prepared for whatever the school year has to offer with the Madhouse. It boasts a roomy interior while being as light as a feather. Available in dark Fushia, Madhouse is equal parts popping and sensible. Ergonomic straps and a back panel protects young backs, while the ‘King Kong’ structure protects books, an ideal combination for the adventurer in every kid. The special bonus inside, a free gym bag, adds to the fluorescent fun!

Equally as cool, the Dallin takes school days from dull to delightful. This wheeled school bag, with ergonomic paneling and padded straps, helps you forget the stress of the school run — simply wheel it around instead. The easy reverse ride system means that this backpack can convert to rock ‘n’ roller in an instant. In fact, there’s no need to even put the straps away.

For your fast-moving mini-me, the Fast is an ideal backpack match, especially since the new monkey shape puts the fun in functional. Every schoolbag in the collection also comes with a free set of two ‘googly’ eyes — perfect for bringing backpack, teacher or textbook to life!

These cool-for-school styles are available at Bahrain City Centre and Jashanmal Al Aali. E Call 17 178-341 or 17-588-025.

BTM August 2012 129

marketplace VLCC

A Splash of Exotic!

Bid farewell to the ordinary and say hello to the exotic.

Surrender to a truly luxurious ritual with an alluring new range of face washes, scrubs and masks.

130 August 2012 BTM

VLCC, a pioneer in natural personal care, currently manufactures and retails over 100 skin, face, body and hair care products across 35 countries, including Bahrain.

The company’s most recent launch is an exotic face care range infused with an indigenous mix of the finest quality exotic and efficacious fruits, flowers and rich herbs.

The range includes all of your skincare essentials; face washes, scrubs and masks are available, each infused with natural ingredients.

All the products stimulate the senses, rejuvenate and pamper your skin in the most gentle and natural way. Each product is infused with exotic natural ingredients.

The witch hazel and rose water gentle face wash not only cleanses and hydrates for healthier skin, but has a lasting

effect on dry and sensitive skin. Witch hazel cleanses impurities while restoring natural moisture of dull and dehydrated skin. Rose water gently cleanses and softens skin for a youthful and healthy appearance.

The pineapple and papaya gentle exfoliating scrub gently exfoliates whilst deep cleansing and reducing excess oil.

The pineapple removes dirt, controls excess oil and exfoliates dead cells and papaya extracts clear freckles, leaving skin feeling smooth and refreshed.

Finally, the liquorice and fenugreek natural fairness face mask lightens and hydrates for naturally glowing skin.

Liquorice is a powerful skin whitening agent, it lightens skin and prevents it from drying. Fenugreek soothes and relaxes skin making it glow naturally. E Call 17 684-880.

THE GULF HOTEL

Strictly Business Every corporate firm knows better than to restrict all of their meetings to the office’s own conference room. Sometimes you need to go big and make an event of it.

In a country that endures a business-oriented lifestyle, there cannot be enough meeting rooms and conference halls. There’s no reason you shouldn’t talk business in a world of luxury, which is exactly what The Gulf Hotel has to offer. It is only expected of one of Bahrain’s premier business hubs to expand its territory.

Step inside the five-star hotel’s brand new meeting rooms and experience a whole range of exclusive services and benefits.

Each and every one of the Hawar meeting rooms, the latest additions to the Gulf Convention Centre, has been designed to the highest specifications, providing clients with the opportunity to host executive meetings in a luxurious setting.

Hush, hush The brand new spaces are located on a separate mezzanine floor and can be accessed via a private lift. This exclusive floor also includes its own waiting area, in addition to several other facilities which provide clients with a high level of confidentiality.

The rooms include five exquisitely furnished executive meeting areas, which have been equipped with state-of-the-art technology. All of them boast a plasma screen television, Internet access and the latest in audio-visual gear. Additionally, the first of the Hawar rooms features video conferencing facilities.

Luxurious furnishings, including polished wood boardroom tables and leather chairs, are set against a breathtaking backdrop of the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the Manama skyline and the Gulf Hotel’s pool and gardens.

Let’s talk numbers The Hawar meeting rooms can host between 10-20 people in a boardroom setup. Plus, the fifth of these rooms provides clients with the flexibility to choose among a variety of arrangements, including the capacity to host up to 40 people for a reception.

Another benefit of hosting your event here is that you can take advantage of the excellent catering services, including a full range of delicious refreshments and snacks, along with The Gulf Hotel’s signature five-star service.

The Gulf Convention Centre nearby also provides additional facilities, with the main Al-Dana ballroom having the capacity to host up to 2,500 people for a reception and 1,200 people in a banquet-style unit. It makes for the ideal venue for international conferences and exhibitions, gala dinners, banqueting events, weddings, graduations and award ceremonies.

The Gulf Hotel also provides clients with luxurious accommodation, in addition to being home to nine excellent fine dining restaurants, making it the perfect destination for overseas visitors to the Kingdom.

E Call 17 713-000 or visit www.gulfhotelbahrain.com.

BTM August 2012 131

listingsthismonth Social Clubs

Arts Culture Art Galleries Al Riwaq Art Gallery Albareh Art Gallery Arabesque Art Gallery Art Lounge Ella Art Gallery

17 717-441 17 717-707 17 722-916 17 580-522 17 292-815

Art Galleries & Framing

Bahrain Art Framing Centre 17 717165 Lamarkiz Framing & Gallery 17 596-284

Arts & Cultural Groups

Alliance Française 17 683-295 Bahrain Arts Society 17 590-562 Contemporary Art Society 3 9224-002 Historical & Archaeological Society

17 727-895 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

17 230-123

Crafts

Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre Crafts Centre Gallery Celebrations L’Atelier Art Lounge Things-To-Do

17 611-900 17 254-688 17 595-791 17 599-030 17 590-409

Ballet Centre Ballare School Futureshape Studio Salsa Bahrain Sampaguita Club Victoria Dance Centre

17 693-232 17 300-021 17 590-088 3 9676-349 3 9106-589 3 987-6215

Dance

Drama, Film and Theatre

Bahrain Cinema Club 17 725-959 Dilmun Amateur Dramatics 17 690-926 Folk Poetry Society 17 761-000

Indian arts & culture

Institute for Performing Arts 17 231-717 Kalabhavan Bahrain Institute 17 717-271 Konkan Singers Club 17 243-511

Islamic Culture

Bapco Club Dilmun Club Filipino Club Marina Club Pakistan Club The British Club The Country Club The Indian Club The Sri Lanka Club The Young Goans Club

17 753-666 17 690-926 17 262-143 17 291-527 17 258-520 17 278-245 17 593-593 17 253-157 17 231-354 3 9455-207

Bhatia Mitra Mandal Kannada Sangha Karnataka Social Club Keraleeya Samajam Shree Nayrana Cultural Shri Gujarati Samaj Tamil Social Association

3 9601-789 17 271-257 17 254-257 17 251-878 17 255-517 3 9019-462 3 9603-564

Awali Caledonian Society Bahrain Irish Society Bahrain Welsh Society Royal Society of St. George

3 6366-458 3 9800-511 3 9467-310 3 9726-329

Other Indian clubs

Other Societies

Business Associations

Folk Poetry Society Pakistan Urdu Literary

17 761-000 17 776-629

Al Hayat Museum Al Oraifi Museum Currency Museum National Museum Oil Museum

17 290-101 17 535-112 17 547-700 17 298-777 17 753-475

Hash House Harriers Bahrain Road Runners

17 862-620 3 6992-288

Bahrain Music Institute Classic Institute of Music Manama Singers Sar Music Centre

17 721-999 17 728-791 17 642-119 17 794-898

British Club Netball Dilmun Netball Club Filipino Club Basketball Netball Club

Bowling

3 8357-181 3 9911-848 17 262-143 3 9911-848

Awali Bowling Centre

17 753-666

Awali Cricket Club

17 756-959

Awali Riding Club Riding School Shakhoora Riding Centre The Country Club

17 756-525 17 690-448 17 591-103 17 593-593

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football

17 692-378 17 695-809

Awali Golf Club Royal Golf Club

17 756-770 17 750-777

Gulf Speed 1 Kart Zone Silver Go Kart

3 9444-885 17 450-000 17 780-011

Sailing Club Yacht Club

17 836-078 17 700-667

Music

Photography

Awali Photo Society 17 764-468 Bahrain Photography Club 17 590-551

Pottery

Bahrain Pottery Society Studio Ceramics

Public Speaking

17 786-969 17 599-026

Manama Toastmasters Club 3 9451-182

Clubs Societies Ladies Clubs American Women’s Assoc. 17 685-882 Australasian Women (AWG) 3 8395-803 Awali Ladies Association 17 678-947 Business Women’s Society 17 721-188 Discover Islam Ladies 17 531-400 Hamad Town Women’s Association

17 422-005 Indian Ladies Association 17 531-468 International Ladies Group 17 729-128 Pakistani Women’s Assoc. 17 710-944 Young Ladies Society 17 262-237 Young Ladies Toastmasters 17 626-237 Women’s Society 17 826-777

132 August 2012 BTM

Bridge Club Bahrain Scrabble League

17 713-080 17 242-641

Dessange Health Club La Fontaine

17 713-999 17 230-123

Filipino Club Tennis Group Table Tennis Club Tennis Club The Country Club

3 9527-587 17 729-756 17 729-561 17 593-593

Pilates

Racket games

Snooker

Jimmy’s Snooker/Billiards 17 71 6-147

National Associations

Amateur Athletic Association 17 684-905 Badminton & Squash Fed. 17 292-662 Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Basketball Association 17 741-010 Bowling Association 17 822-077 Chess Federation 17 252-133 Cycling Association 17 650-079 Language Courses Disabled Sports Federation 17 789-191 Alliance Française 17 683-295 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Berlitz 17 827-847 Football Association 17 729-563 The British Council 17 261-555 Handball Association 17 720-321 Other Associations Hockey Association 17 253-209 Baloch Club 17 292-231 Maritime Sports Association 17 836-078 Garden Club 17 727-625 Martial Arts Association 17 650-676 Pakistan Association 3 9415-200 Mind Sports Association 17 340-016 Skal International Bahrain 17 22-4050 Shooting & Fencing Assoc. 17 750-006 Snooker Association 17 825-301 Sports Recreation Swimming Association 17 680-867 Aerobics Table Tennis Association 17 729-393 Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Volleyball Association 17 271-139 Curves Fitness Clinic for Women

17 691-496 Teens Kids Ez Fit SportPlex 17 692-378 Athletics World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576 Road Runners 3 6992-288

17 645-156 17 261-555 17 531-400

Museums

Mind Games

American Chamber Comm. 17 580-516 Australian Association 3 9206-432 Bar Society 17 725-665 Bankers’ Society of Bahrain 17 728-003 British Business Forum 3 9651-755 Businessmen’s Association 17 229-009 French Business Club 17 748-999

Al Bayan Society Beit Al Quran Discover Islam

Literature

Ghassan’s Style Kickboxing 3 9458-293 Karate Centre 3 9247-769 17 813-856 Taichi & Wushu Center Japan Karate Association 17 591-237 Marina Club 3 9690-008 Reza Martial Arts Centre 17 694-646 Shotokan Karate 3 9626-211 World Beat Fitness Center 17 612-576 Yong Quan Tha Chi 3 9667-624 Zen-Do Bahrain 17 611-909

Athletics/Running Ball Games

Cricket

Equestrian

Football & Rugby Golf

Karting

Marine Sports Martial Arts

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Bahrain Karate Center 17 612-576 Bin Jamal Taekwondo Center 3 6222-892 Delmon Taekwondo School 3 9689-659 Futureshape Studio 17 592-019

Dance

Ballet Centre 3 9676-349 Victoria Dance Centre 3 9876-215 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

Cricket

Ez-Fit SportPlex SLC grounds, Riffa

17 692-378 17 276-134

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football The Country Club

17 692-378 17 695-809 17 593-593

Football & Rugby Horse Riding

Fitness Plus Physique Fitness Centre World Beat Fitness Centre 24-hour Fitness

17 593-593 17 694-646 17 612-576 17 716-999

Bodyline Spa Coral Beach Club La Fontaine Spa Massage Centre

17 793-932 17 312-777 17 230-123 17 264-064

Ann Beauty Center and Spa Bellacura Beauty Lounge Dessange Spa Futoon Beauty & Fitness Pineapple Spa Profile Fitness Centre Wellness Resort Zoya Beauty Centre

17 623-704 17 364-955 17 713-999 17 777-994 17 712-000 17 727-766 17 795-961 17 740-800

Art of Living Foundation

39 653-007

Fitness Gyms

Health Spas (Women only)

Meditation Centres

Bahrain Wellness Centre Bayoga Centre Meditation Centre Physiotherapy Centre World Beat Fitness Centre

17 795-961 39 460-996 17 712-545 17 722-012 17 612-576

Health Clubs (Hotels)

Banyan Tree Resort & Spa 17 845-000 Crowne Plaza Health Club 17 531-122 17 535-000 Golden Tulip Health Club 17 713-000 Gulf Hotel Health Club Le Mirage, Diplomat Hotel 17 531-666 17 227-777 Regency Fitness Centre 36 270-302 RJ’s, Ramee Int'l Hotel 17 524-570 Sheraton Fitness Sporting Club, Ritz-Carlton 17 580-000 The Gym, Mövenpick Hotel 17 460-000

Kids Fitness Centres

Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports (CHAOSS) 17 592-096 17 566-566 My Gym Bahrain

QR Codes: On-The-Go Reading You can now read Bahrain This Month while you are out and about, from the comfort of your own phone — just simply download a free app which allows you direct access to the online magazine. Both iPhone, iPad2 and BlackBerry users can enjoy this simple convenience by following these simple steps;

iPhone/iPad2 users Step 1: Search for i-nigma on the Apple app store Step 2: Download i-nigma on your iPhone or Pad, free of charge Step 3: After downloading is complete, click on the i-nigma icon Step 4: Finally, simply scan the QR code to be directed to a page on the designated page on the web

Awali Riding Club 17 756-525 Dilmun Club 17 692-986 Riding School 17 690-448 Shakhoora Riding School 17 591-103 The Country Club 17 593-593

Marine & Sailing Sailing Club Yacht Club

Martial Arts

17 700-677 17 700-677

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Al Hala Sports Club 3 9966-139 Balouch Club 17 292-231 British Club 17 728-245 Delmon Tae Kwon Do School 3 9689-659 Taichi & Wushu Centre 3 6437-931

Health Fitness Fitness Gyms

Al Gosaibi Gym Coral Beach Club Dessange Health Club Ez-Fit Sportsplex Ghassans Gym

17 293-221 17 312-777 17 713-999 17 692-379 17 695-911

BlackBerry users Step 1: Search for ‘QR Code Scanner Pro’ in the Blackberry app world, either online or directly from your phone Step 2: Download the app, free of charge Step 3: Click on the application and scan the code Step 4: On scanning, you will be directed to site referenced in the QR code There are two QR codes used this issue; on the front cover, on First Word (page 11).

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Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

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To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.

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Where is Galleria 2012 held? ___________________________ When is Indian Independence Day? ___________________________ Where can you find Abd El Wahab? ___________________________

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

Who got it right?

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! hyundai-ramadan-btm.pdf

1

7/22/12

1:34 PM

Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: Winner : Rabindra Bahadur Second Place : Ma. Jenet Santos Third Place : Rasiya Moh’d

Last month’s solutions

1.

1. Giuse Maggi

4

5 6

Who is organising a junior golf event? ___________________________ Who runs Tails? ___________________________ Which car did we test drive this month? ___________________________

2. July 14 3. Bahrain City Centre 4. Karim Arafa 5. Luca De Stefano 6. Citröen DS3 7. 13 years 8. Christian Testot 9. Brain Tuner Lite 10. Funland Centre

2.

Ad Seek 1. Alba 2. Pizza Inn 3. VLCC/VLCC Natural Sciences 4. The Yellow Chilli

7

8 9 10

What new venue is opening at Elite Crystal Hotel? ___________________________ Who is the Indian ambassador? ___________________________ What’s our app of the month? ___________________________ Where will you find Crash Motion? ___________________________

Name:

Address:

3.

Telephone:

Email:

cpr:

Entry deadline is August 15. 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.

4.

BTM August 2012 133 Basic Package

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tarotscopethismonth

leo

July 23 – August 22 Grey days, indeed, Leo; it is sad that they are mostly of your own making as you fall out in a big way with someone at work, leading to you having little choice but to change position. A great deal of the forthcoming problem stems from your inability to accept the blame for anything you do; as a consequence you are forever trying to pass responsibility onto someone else. If you do not change your ways then it could be more than just your job you lose since a partner is also beginning to show the strain. There is a chance to avoid all the aggravation if you hold your tongue on the 10th otherwise….well, you have been warned.

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

Virgo August 21 – September 22 You may bump into an old flame early this month and it could lead you to thinking of things that might have been. It will therefore not be too surprising to receive a telephone call several days later from that very same person inviting you for a drink and perhaps something more.

The only complication could be an existing partnership and you must decide quickly whether the rekindling of an old romance is really the right thing to do.

After all, you must have split up for a valid reason in the first place so scrutinise the history without the rose-coloured glasses first.

Card of the Month —The Nine of Cups Libra September 21 – October 21 There seems to be plenty of romance in the air this month and you are another of the signs affected by affairs of the heart. However, cupid’s arrow leaves a different impression upon you and what might seem to be the start of a wonderful relationship could, in fact, turn out to be a disappointment. It appears that for some of you, the absence of someone special in your life has left you feeling lonely and prone to jumping into any possible new relationship headfirst. It’s all well and good thinking with the heart, but reason should not be so nonchalantly dismissed — especially when dealing with a matter so delicate.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Cups

134 August 2012 BTM

Scorpio October 22 – November 21 You may suddenly look back on the year so far and think that something has gone missing from your life. There is a difference about you, particularly where friendships are concerned, since your circle of close companions has significantly reduced, leaving you wondering why.

Have you become insular and detached or is a current relationship dominating your social calendar more than you might realise? Whatever the answer, honest self-analysis may be required since there could be a great deal at stake for you — perhaps not now — but when the next few months roll by. Square one is not a pleasant place to find yourself back at if things go wrong.

Card of the Month — The Four of Cups

Sagittarius November 22 – December 21 August is a month you will both look forward to and wish away since it brings sweetness tinged with bitterness. On the whole, a successful period in your family life will find you buoyant and optimistic for the future, with a recent financial gain also putting you in a positive frame of mind. The only downside lies in the inevitable separation you are likely to have to face with the departure of a loved one to foreign shores.

Everything else that is good around you will seem to carry a little of that shadow for the majority of the month and you may only find yourself getting out of this frame of mind as September finally beckons.

Card of the Month — The Three of Cups

Capricorn ­December 22 — January 18 There are plenty of opportunities for change this month although some do not carry all the promise they may at first suggest. If you feel the time has come for a move from work following a successful restructuring of your finances, then choose your path wisely and be sure you firstly have a large pool to select from. Above all, do not jump head first into unfamiliar territory since the omens for a career change rather than simply a company change are not good. On the family front, recent revelations may have caused certain rifts at home and August will provide you with a good chance to put the situation right with those that matter most.

Card of the Month — The Wheel of Fortune

aquarius January 20 – February 18 If you have not been feeling your best in July, then August will give you plenty of reason to be a lot more positive within yourself as the chance of an unexpected trip abroad provides you with a welcome spirit-lifter. However, be sure that you take a young person’s needs into consideration since any unforeseen requirements may leave you with a major headache whilst you are away. Within the home, things come to a head with a sibling who owes money but persists in avoiding the debt and unless you take the matter into hand, you could be left with more trouble than you expected.

Card of the Month — The Empress

pisces ­February 21 – March 20 Sometimes there is nothing quite like home to bring you back down to earth if you have been away or on holiday and August may provide you with one or two unexpected surprises. The principal hurdle to overcome could manifest itself in the form of an invoice that was left unpaid and has now developed into a serious problem. Act quickly and the matter should be resolved without too much difficulty. Leave matters as they are and you will find yourself with a major mountain to climb. On the work front, colleagues could be planning a surprise party so don’t be concerned by hushed tones and whispering whenever you’re around.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Cups

advertisersindex Aries March 21 – April 20 As August wheels its way in, you may feel slightly deflated seeing others close to you plan holidays, social events or family get-togethers. This could have something to do with the fact that a partner’s lack of attention is leaving you suffering from a sense of vulnerability. A good course of action might be to sit down and talk things through with a loved one. Once you have achieved this, you will be better prepared to put your life in order. Don’t be too surprised to find there are always two sides to every family disagreement so, if your advice is called for, be certain you hear both of them first.

Card of the Month — The Chariot

Jewellery & Watches

Accessorize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Clarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . . . . 2 Sharif Group (Jaguar) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Home & Furnishings

Medical & Dental Services

BoConcept . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Creative Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Innovation Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Phoenicia Décor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 The Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Hotels & Luxury Apartments

TAURUS April 21 – May 20 If you have been suffering a low point at work through lack of enthusiasm, then fate may just step in this month and point you towards a unique opportunity. You could suddenly find yourself presented with a position that has been a life-long ambition and any doubts or uncertainties should be cast aside. On the health front, a niggling back or shoulder complaint will finally be cured, although you shouldn’t rush back into your normal routine too quickly. However, be sure to watch those pounds as a gradual increase of weight over the last few months has been obvious and you have done little to stem the tide.

Card of the Month —The Star

Gemin ­May 21 – June 20 August is very much a month of choice for you, with some difficult decisions to make. Firstly, you need to address a problem within the home where a member of your family is perhaps taking advantage of your generosity and beginning to display a side to their personality you are quite offended by. If you can, try to avoid a scene. Another problem could arise at work, where a male colleague’s incompetence could result in a major fault with some serious implications. You may be the only person who knows of his discrepancy and you could be forced to choose between your conscience and friendship if events demand it.

Card of the Month —Strength

Cancer June 21 – July 20 There is love in the air this month and the person you are attracted to could cause heads to turn since they are considerably younger than you are. If you do find yourself smitten, you would be best advised to take things slowly since there is the suggestion things are not quite all they may seem to be. Be especially careful not to dismiss the advice of a close friend. You might also find yourself invited to a party in August and if you have to buy a present don’t just buy the first thing you see. You’re setting yourself up for an embarrassing incident.

Card of the Month — The Page of Cups

Mila Kunis

Chris Hemsworth

FAMOUS leo THIS MONTH Antonio Banderas

Fashion & Footwear

Elite Crystal Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Elite Seef Residence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Holiday Inn Express. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Pars International Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

India in Bahrain Ahli United Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Al Namal & VKL Group of Companies . . 69 Al Noor International School . . . . . . . . . 82 Bahrain Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Bahrain Cinema Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Bahrain Financing Company . . . . . . . . . . 72 Bramco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 KIMS Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Megamart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Nass Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Ramada Palace Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Ramee Grand Hotel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 State Bank of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 The Yellow Chilli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . 21 Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Motoring Almoayyed Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Euro Motors (Land Rover) . . . . . . . . . . . . BC First Motors (Hyundai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . . . . 33 Motor City (Volvo) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 National Car Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Zayani Motors (Mitsubishi). . . . . . . . . . . 50

Others Al Ghalia Farms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 AMA Basic School of Education. . . . . . . 55 Bahrain International Circuit. . . . . . . . . . . 1 Bahrain Science Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Dream Body Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Gajria Electronics (Olympus) . . . . . . . . . . 97 Junaid for Perfumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Lost Paradise of Dilmun . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Nails Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 VLCC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Yateem Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro (Severin) . . . . . . . 31

Restaurants & Cafés Abd El Wahab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Aroma Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Jim’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Sumo Sushi & Bento . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Telecommunications Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IFC

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, Saar ● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop ● BooksPlus, all outlets ● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Park Supermarket, Mahooz ● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai ● Other leading Cold Stores and

News Stands 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 National Photo Services, Gudaibiya 17 742-955.

BTM August 2012 135

lastword Great place for a meeting: no phones and no customers!

Training Day JAMES CLAIRE When training takes us away from the very people who are the subject of our learning, are we not training for our own demise?

136 August 2012 BTM

For three decades I held the highest position I could in my career. I was lucky to be given the chance as a youth and entrusted with the position I held ever since. This, though, has not stopped me from continuing to learn.

I understand training like few others. If I don’t continue to learn, then I suffer dearly at the hands of younger, smarter, more out-of-the-box thinking staff members. Training is essential to my survival.

That’s what I thought anyway!

You see, my first career was in hospitality. Thirty years ago we were taught that the customer is always right. They are, after all, paying the bills and salaries of staff via their room or food bills.

I have also worked around the world, in the same industry, and am fully aware that customers have taken advantage of this statement and have tried to milk it for all it’s worth. But if we turn our back on customers then what is the point of being in business?

No customers, no sales, no income, no job, no business.

Simple math!

I recently rang to speak to management at a hotel for an interview, to appear in a local newspaper. Deadline loomed large in my second, journalistic career; importance and ego loomed large in theirs! The interview was, in effect, to be about them.

I rang, repeatedly; then checked the number with superiors, and I rang again. For three days I rang. The deadline hung around my neck like a tightening noose. On day four the person answered.

“Where have you been?” I asked a little pretentiously. “In training meetings for three days,” came back the reply. “To learn what, dare I ask?” The response: “To improve communication skills with our customers.”

Mon Dieu!

Sadly, this is not an isolated case.

Call any management between 8am and 11am and they are invariably in meetings, every single one of them, every single day!

I understand training. But if all management are off the floor at the same time, if noone answers the phone for three days, if questions cannot be asked when needed, then, honestly, you deserve to have your business go broke.

I’d love to work in some of these places. Everyone enjoys the freedom to do as they please when the bosses are not looking.

Staff must go crazy during management training; they must all know the secret, that management is indisposed and un-contactable.

Back when I was young, people were employed for their knowledge, skills and efficiency. They brought something to the table, elevated an institution by being there. Then, people seemed to be employed to fill the ranks. These days they seem to be employed to simply give them something to do.

Another example comes via text to me from a PR friend, “Don’t call, I’m in a meeting with the general manager, every day, between 9am and 12 noon.”

I agree the training of staff helps to retain them. I agree that management need to discuss important matters, budgets, maintenance, so on. But daily! For three hours! That’s 18 hours a week. Where I work we have a saying, “If I don’t need you for 18 hours a week, I don’t need you!”

Doesn’t business evolve around the customer? Training, is that not secondary to customers’ needs?

It would seem customers have become the annoyance, not the desire of businesses.

Management meetings have their place, to solve problems and to disseminate information to the hoards, without the top people having to talk to each and every staff member.

Information goes to department heads and departmentally the information can go out to the hungry ears of workers.

But even that has become like Chinese whispers. I worked with management who stated after meetings, “I am noone’s messenger.” They felt it below them to pass the information along.

So, what on Earth are meetings about and why do we bother with training, if management come away from such events feeling so empowered, so arrogant that they are beyond doing their job?

My local bank kept telling me that my branch manager was in customer relations meetings; I could call him later. Surely if the meetings were worth a grain of salt they would have taught to return customers’ calls and apologise for not being available.

If I headed up a training school, I would teach like the old days — customers first! No customers! No business! No job!

Is that such a hard premise to understand or is money being made so easily these days that customers are really a burden to a business?

I need a training course myself now; on patience, resilience and understanding of the way this world is heading.

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