Bahrain This Month - August 2016

TOP GADGETS | PORSCHE 911 TEST DRIVE | WHAT’S NEW

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DJ Amy dB

Queen of House Music

India in Bahrain

Celebrating Independence Day

Sensational SUVs

Latest Models and Special Offers!

Back-to-School

Get Ready for the New Term

Happenings Workshops Galore

August 2016 ~ Vol. 20 ~ Issue 8

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

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Issue 228

Contents August 2016 34

COVER STORY Crowning Glory of House Music

The queen of deep and progressive house music, DJ Amy dB tells BTM about her journey in electronica and the challenges of being a female artist in the industry.

HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of August 2016:

18

18 Handmade

Card Workshop:

A fun workshop for children to learn how to create their own greetings cards.

20

A Journey of Discovery:

A theatrical play about traveller Ibn Battuta’s adventurous travels.

22 Making

a Splash:

Wahoo! water park’s first summer camp for children to keep active during the holidays.

26 Off-road

22

30

Experience:

Experience a 4x4 adventure with BIC’s popular Land Rover Experience throughout the week.

28 Pen

and Ink Classes:

Create your own graphic art in a dedicated creative space with a professional technical/graphic art teacher.

30

After Dark:

Dance With Duffy:

DJ Duffey takes to the decks at the Cavallo Club.

32

Party the Night Away:

Sway to the funky beats of a new resident band at The Warbler.

33

36

Maximise the Fun:

Enjoy foot-tapping tunes from a live band The Hub.

38

36-37

INTERVIEWS A Collector’s Dream

BTM chats with Akram Miknas about the rich tapestry of his life and a potential new museum for Bahrain.

38

The Original Music Man

BTM takes a walk down memory lane with Abdulla Al Gannas as he shares his stories.

FEATURES

40

54 Bystander This month’s Bystander pages captured the French National Bastille Day commemorations, the Summer Festival opening, the Middle East Hospital inauguration as well as the Malaysian and Brunei ambassadors’ Eid celebrations, amongst other major events on the island.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

India in Bahrain 39-55

A special supplement celebrating India’s 69th Independence Day and bilateral relations between the two countries.

Back-to-School 58-62

A comprehensive guide to get you school ready, featuring the best deals around the island, from kids’ fashion to essentials for the new term.

Motoring – SUVs 64-71

A special report on the latest deals and offerings on sports utility vehicles (SUVs) from the motor trade in the Kingdom.

August 2016 5

Issue 228

Contents August 2016 Motoring: 74

A Truly Terrific Turbo:

Charlie Holding takes the Porsche 911 Carrera S for a spin.

74

76

Hybrid and Electric Models Launched:

Hyundai reveals a range of alternative-fuel cars to promote eco-friendly driving.

78-79 Motoring

News and Launches:

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

DOWNTIME:

80-81 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town

82 Music: Top Tunes Games: The hot games of the month 84 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 85 Apps: Essential apps 86 Movies: New releases

83 Computer

90

58

DINING: 88

Dining Table Theatrics:

Puja Tiwari reviews the fine-dining restaurant Imari, at The Domain Hotel and Spa. 90

The Sweetest Brunch in Town:

Charlie Holding tastes the offerings at Le Meriden Bahrain City Centre’s relaunched brunch at Baharat.

91

Awesomely Asian:

A firm favourite of Bahrain’s culinary scene, Bambu offers a sensational selection of Asian fare.

What a Catch!:

92

La Perle at Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort offers a seafood dining experience boasting all things fresh.

93

88

65

Nutty Delight:

Learn how to whip up an ambrosial walnut moutabal with an authentic recipe from Reem Al Bawadi restaurant.

94-95

Table Hopping

Showcase:

What’s New: Must-have products 98-108 Marketplace: Latest products and services 96

Regulars: 109 WIN

WIN Tarotscope 111 AD Index 112 Last Word

110

96

80

82

96

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2016 7

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month August 2016

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Marketing & Electronic Media Director Deepa Siva Editor Apple Sharma Contributors Charlie Holding, Behnaz Sanjana, Puja Tiwari Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel, Gopal Nambiar

Photography Editor Mona Abdul Jabbar Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Kadambari S

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: info@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2014 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

•

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

COVER Cover Picture:

DJ Amy dB

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

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

TOP GADGETS | PORSCHE 911 TEST DRIVE | WHAT’S NEW

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

DJ Amy dB

Queen of House Music

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

India in Bahrain

Connect with Bahrain This Month:

Celebrating Independence Day

Sensational SUVs

Latest Models and Special Offers!

Back-to-School

Get Ready for the New Term

Happenings Workshops Galore

August 2016 ~ Vol. 20 ~ Issue 8

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

As I write this, I am preparing to head off on my hols and, I must admit, I’m thankful to be escaping the blistering summer temperatures which are already breaking records.

For those of you remaining on the island, there are workshops galore and lots of summer camp activities for the little ones as well as nightlife events and new bands to check out, all in our comprehensive Happenings section.

Look out for our exclusive interview with international DJ Amy dB, who returns to the island for a headlining performance this month and we’ve also spoken to business mogul and inveterate collector Akram Miknas about his plans for a museum and entertainment legend Abdulla Al Gannas, who threw the Kingdom’s first ever Eid party.

August is, of course, the month in which India celebrates its Independence Day and, as always, for our India in Bahrain report we’ve reached out to prominent members of the Indian community, including Ambassador HE Alok Kumar Sinha and businessman Varghese Kurian, to take an in-depth look at the sub-continent’s cultural and economic presence in the Kingdom. On a lighter note, the report also includes snippets of news and a section on must-see Indian travel destinations.

In the motoring section, our annual SUV consumer report brings together brands and deals from the island’s main motors dealers and reviews from Charlie Holding who got behind the wheel of the KIA Sportage and the new Porsche 911.

It’s still holiday season but, for many parents, thoughts are focussed on the return to the classroom. From uniforms to backpacks to art supplies and tips on ensuring that all-important first day goes smoothly, it’s covered in our Back-toSchool feature.

For this month’s dining section, we tested out Japanese eatery, Imari, at The Domain Hotel and Spa and the relaunched brunch at Baharat at Le Meridien and you can find out all the news on the eating out scene in the regular Table Hopping pages.

If you’d rather stay indoors, and in this heat who wouldn’t, make sure you also take a look at the Downtime section for information on the latest gadgets and gizmos, music, websites, apps and films.

Whatever you’re up to in August, take Bahrain This Month along for your guide to a great way of life.

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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Nightlife

August 2016 9

bystander

French National Bastille Day

HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, hosted a reception to celebrate the French National “Bastille” Day at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Dignitaries and top officials at the cake-cutting ceremony

Mohammed, Rommel, Debie, HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre, Faith & Dr Pierre

HE Alberto Vecchi, HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre & HE Mohamed Ali Seraj

Qays Zu’bi, Adel, Regis & Eva

Abi & David

Catherine, Yetta & Anna

Carmen & Francis

Basim Al Saie & Suhail Al Gosaibi

Vira, Irina & Alex

Rudolfo

Abdul Hamid Hatim & Mazin Juma

Vicky & Noha

HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran, Kevin Donegan, Ann, HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre, HE William Roebuck & Dominique Carla

HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran & HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi

Stephen, Frank & Nicacio

Shatrivijay Kumar, Nayana, Thahera, Dr Badie & Yousif

10 August 2016

Nasrin, Hani, Cecile, Husasin & Hashim

HE Dr A S U Mendis & Prem

Suzanne

Jasim Al Zayani & Khalifa Rumehi

Bu Khalid

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Bahrain Summer Festival

The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities held the opening ceremony of the Bahrain Summer Festival 2016 at Al Nakhool Tent, Bahrain National Museum.

Fatema, Najah & Haya

Elyan, Leya & Elnaz

HE Ahmed Rachid Khattabi, HE Mohammed Ben Youssef, Samira Rajab & Dr Muneer Bushnaqi

Sara, Albadrh & Dalal

Mohammed Hassan, Zainab, Jassim & Mariam

Hind & Nujood

Nedal, Mohammed & Abdulrahman

Snow in Summer

Jassim & Hamad

Mohammed & Zahra

Famitha & Sweety

Layla, Zainab & Arwa

Hamad

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority held the opening ceremony of Snow in Summer at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

Representatives at the event

Saima, Nabahat & Momina

Mohammed, Kenzy & Alaa

Sophia, Joan & Hady

Loubna, Um Loubna & Sana

12 August 2016

Mahmood, Mohammed & Khairaya

Obai & Ali

Jenny, Harold & Aisha

Shruti & Karishma

Maya

Haitham & Omar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

HE Ahmed Shahizan bin Abdul Samad & HE Park Ho

Sarina, Nor Hayati, Anne, Shanjida, Tosin, Deanna & Ratna

Eid Celebration Nor Hayati, wife of the Malaysian Ambassador, hosted a special Eid celebration party at their residence.

Nor Hayati & HE Ahmed Shahizan bin Abdul Samad

Ratna, HE Ahmed Shahizan bin Abdul Samad, David, Nor Hayati & Nurui

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, HE Ahmed Shahizan bin Abdul Samad & HE Qi Zhenhong

Ahmed Al Abbasi, Dr Khalid, HE Ahmed Shahizan bin Abdul Samad, Raed Al Abbasi & Nazri

Nurui, Aderin & Fuziah

Namrin, Nurui & Mehadi

Nilanthini, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, HE Ahmed Shahizan bin Abdul Samad & Nor Hayati

14 August 2016

HE Ahmed Shahizan bin Abdul Samad, Shantharam Shetty, Asha Shetty & Nor Hayati

Radia, Mehdi, Shanjida & Abrar

Caroline, Ratnawati & Nilanthini

David & Ratna

Ratnawati, HE Chilman Arisman, HE Ahmed Shahizan bin Abdul Samad & Nor Hayati

Shino & Benny

HE Alfonso A Ver, Brian, Rafa, Caroline & Raymond

Andrew & Tosin

Frank, Deanna & Nor Hayati

www.bahrainthismonth.com

2.0L Sports Edition

BD 103/NOW

Per Month

Price includes: | Insurance | Registration | Rust Proofing & Window Tinting

| 2.0 Litre, 4-Cylinder 143HP | Multi Drive 7S Transmission | 2 Tone Diamond Cut 16" Sporty Alloy Wheels | 2 Tone Sporty Fabric Seats |

Be among the few to own the limited 2016 Toyota Corolla X Sports Edition, featuring MULTI DRIVE 7S transmission for a more exhilarating drive and smoother unconstrained acceleration.

Visit Toyota Showroom – Sitra to discover the sportier Corolla X Limited Edition.

Sitra Showroom: 17 730 730 Toyota Plaza - Tubli: 17 787 888 www.toyota.com.bh

TEST DRIVE & TRADE-IN AVAILABLE

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bystander

Hospital Opening The Middle East Hospital held a soft opening at its premises in Segaya.

Mansoor & Nasser Al Arrayed

The cake-cutting ceremony

Mohammed Basheer & Dr Sayyar Vishakh, Lizy, Varghese Kurian & Jeeben

Swapna & Vinisha

Varghese Kurian, George & Dr Mansoor

Alaa, Najla, Fatema & Ruqaya

Siny, Ailyn & Mirval

Hussain, Mohammed, Dr Bahaa Fateha, Abdulhussain

Nadeem & Himanshu Gandhi

Dr Nabeel & Dr Akbar Jalal

Ahmed, Ahmed Fawzi & Wael Hassan

Sakina, Amra & Rowena

Varghese Kurian & Dr Mansoor

Dr Akbar Jalal & Moosa

Mudassir, Radesh & Ashok

Ahmed, Ruqaya & Fatema

Varghese Kurian with hospital management and staff

16 August 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AUGUST

2016.

HANDMADE CARD WORKSHOP

HAPPENINGS

When? Ongoing-August 3 Event? Art Workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum

ARABIC CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOP

A fun workshop in which children can learn how to create their own handmade cards in several unique styles that reflect their personalities.

It runs from 4-9pm and is suitable for children aged four to 11 years.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

EUROPEAN FOLK TALES

When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Art workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum

When? Ongoing-August 4 Event? Storytelling Venue? Bahrain National Museum

Bahraini artist Sayed Murtada will host a workshop for children aged 12-15 years on Arabic calligraphy. The class will teach the basics of this incredible art form. Arabic calligraphy was originally a tool for communication but, with time, it began to be used in architecture, decoration and coin design. The workshop runs from 4-9pm.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

Folklore is an important part of Europe’s history and has had a marked influence. There is a staggering number of tales from renowned writers such as the Grimm brothers and Hans Christian Andersen. This event sees a British storyteller entertain children aged four to 15 years with a selection of ageappropriate material. It runs from 4-9pm.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

MAD SCIENCE LAB WORKSHOP

FOAM ART WORKSHOP

When? Ongoing-August 4 Event? Science workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum Children aged eight to 15 years can take part in this informative and engaging workshop, which sees them conduct their own experiments under the watchful eye of a professional. The workshop runs from 4-9pm.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

FUN WITH DECOUPAGE When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Decoupage workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum Learn how to decorate and brighten just about anything using decoupage – glued coloured paper – in this creative workshop. It runs from 4-9pm and is suitable for children aged eight to 15 years.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

18 August 2016

When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Art workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum Bahraini artist Ahmed Buhameed will host a workshop for children aged 12-15 years on how to make art using foam. Foam board is hugely versatile and can be used for mounting artwork, photographs or to mock-up model prototypes. Available in A1, A2, A3 and A4 sheets, with the use of a craft knife to cut down to your required shape and size.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Theatrical Play Venue? Bahrain National Museum David Muller, who plays the role of traveller Ibn Battuta, will take the audience on an adventurous journey of discovery. It is a play about travelling through the East during the 15th century and all the life-changing inventions found in this region during these travels. It is suitable for children aged three and above and it runs from 5-9pm.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

SUPERHERO DRAWING WORKSHOP When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Art workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum Children aged 12-15 years are invited to bring their favourite superheroes to life in this fun art class.

An instructor from Cartoon Planet will show youngsters how to draw Batman, Superman and many more. Supplies will be provided by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities. It runs from 4-9pm.

When? Ongoing-August 13 Event? Art expo Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space Do It is an ever-growing compendium of commands and instructions. These commands, by artists and for anyone to follow, invite us to join in the process of making, performing or completing an artist’s work. Exhibitions of Do It are great opportunities to have fun – and make an absolute spectacle of yourself.

More than 70 artists from across the region have written instructions that anyone can use to make a new work of art. The instructions reveal a range of artistic concerns and positions, some addressing social and political issues, others revealing an interest in the ways we communicate and understand the world around us.

Call 17 717-441 or email info@alriwaqartspace.com.

GET FIT THIS SUMMER When? Ongoing-August 18 Event? Summer camp Venue? Riffa Views International School

and LIFE-FIT Fitness Centre

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

BEST OF BRITISH When? Ongoing-August 11 Event? Summer camp Venue? The British School of Bahrain This sensational summer camp offers youngsters the chance to make the most of their summer break.

Activities include football, arts and crafts, dance, games and a field trip to Artzania (Ramli Mall) on August 3. It is suitable for ages three to six and seven to 11 years. The camp costs BD80 for one week and BD160 for two weeks.

Call 17 610-943 or 17 610-973.

20 August 2016

JUST DO IT!

The aim of LIFE-FIT Summer Camps is to provide children with stimulating alternatives to help them to stay mentally and physically active during the long break.

There are two camps running simultaneously throughout the summer, one at LIFE-FIT Fitness Centre in Janabiya, and the other at Riffa Views International School. The camp at Janabiya is for children aged from three to 10 years. Typical activities include: taekwondo, team games, arts and crafts, karate, yoga, creative cookery, gymnastics, circuit training, sensory kinetics, fun-fit sports conditioning and dance-fit.

The camps will operate from Sunday to Thursday. The price varies depending on the number of days and weeks that children participate.

To register, or for pricing information, visit LIFE-FIT Fitness Centre in Janabiya.

The camp at Riffa View International School is for children aged three to 13. Camp activities include: football, cricket, circuit training, basketball, karate, team games, volleyball, taekwondo, dodgeball, badminton, gymnastics, swimming lessons, rounders, fitness classes and yoga.

The camp opens at 9.30am, and closes at 1pm and will operate on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.

Call 33 001-261, email info@lifefit-bahrain.com or visit www.lifefit-bahrain.com

When? July 17-August 18 Event? LVC Summer Camp Venue? Um Al Hassam Villa 1138, Road 3322, Block 333 Little Village Centre provides holistic services for children with the aim of supporting and developing their communication skills. The camp will explore different themes, stories, arts and crafts activities, sensory play, dance and movement, painting and more. It runs from Sunday to Thursday, 9am-noon for ages two to six years. It costs BD40 a week or BD175 for five weeks.

E Call 17 322-570.

When? Ongoing-August 2 Event? Book Workshop Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space The Look And Make And Look workshop will be run by Daniel Donnelly – a Bahrain-based artist with a background in teaching, international development and cultural project management. Over three days, work towards making a book with photos. It costs BD30, runs from 11am-1pm, and is suitable for ages nine years and above.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? Ongoing-August 3 Event? Handmade Card Workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

When? Ongoing-August 4 Event? Summer camp Venue? Alliance Française E Call 17 683-295 or email events@afbahrain.com.

When? Ongoing-August 4 Event? Storytelling Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

When? Ongoing-August 4 Event? Science workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Decoupage Workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Arabic Calligraphy Workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

MAKING A SPLASH When? Ongoing-August 22 Event? Wahooo! Summer camp Venue? City Centre Bahrain The first summer camp at the water park encourages children to keep active during the long summer holidays, offering stimulating alternatives for kids to be physically energetic.

It takes place at City Centre Bahrain and parents can register their children – aged eight to 14 – from a minimum of one day to a maximum of six weeks. Children will be split into groups according to age and gender.

When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Foam Art Workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Theatrical Play Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

Camp includes a range of sports and fitness activities as well as full water park access, laser tag, bowling and magic planet.

Activities start at 10am and finish at 1.45pm. The camp will operate from Sunday to Thursday. Trainers

comprise qualified sports coaches and physical education teachers, all with experience in teaching healthrelated activities to children.

When? Ongoing-August 7 Event? Superhero drawing workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

Call 17 692-424 or WhatsApp 33 001-261.

When? Ongoing-August 11 Event? Summer camp Venue? The British School of Bahrain E Call 17 610-943 or 17 610-973.

DANCE CAMP When? Ongoing-August 25

Event? Summer camp

Venue? Bahrain Ballet Centre

This is a dance and creativity camp that is ideal for kids aged five to 10 years. They can join in creative and fitness dance, accessory and costume design, singing and group choir, sketching, team building games and storytelling. There will also be surprise guest speakers. It runs for six weeks and costs BD50 per week for the six-week package or BD75 for individual weeks.Youngsters who complete the full six weeks will have the chance to showcase their achievements.

Call 17 693-232 or 39 239-866.

SUMMER FIT When? Ongoing-August 30 Event? Summer camp Venue? Berlitz Bahrain and Bodyline Fitness Centre The Berlitz Bahrain summer camp provides children aged five to 15 years a range of exciting activities, including: learning a new language, taekwondo, art classes, cooking classes and more.

The programme runs five days a week and parents can choose a four- or five-day schedule – depending on the selection of activities – meaning campers can do as much or as little as they like. Prices vary depending on how many days and activities you sign up for but oneweek costs around BD60 and a full month can cost around BD200.

The camp is organised by Berlitz Bahrain and Bodyline Fitness Centre and activities alternate between their locations in Budaiya and Saar respectively.

Call 17 827-847, 17 694-233 or visit www.berlitzbahrain.com.

22 August 2016

SUMMER CAMP FUN When? Ongoing-August 31 Event? Young Coder Club Summer Camp Venue? Al Shakhurah Youth Center Young Coder Club is a four-week summer camp teaching children nine-12 years how to build a mobile app.

Young Coder Club will run throughout the month from 3pm-6pm on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Al Shakhurah Youth Center.

During the programme, participants will learn to build something from scratch, which can help boost their self-confidence and belief in their own abilities.

They will also develop their teamworking skills by having to work together to tackle mathematical and creative challenges through problem-solving.

The camp costs BD35 and each participant will receive a mobile phone, a T-shirt and a certificate of participation.

Call 17 375-436 or 33 483-800.

When? Ongoing-August 11 Event? Summer camp Venue? Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa E Call 17 586-612 or email rc. bahrz.event@ritzcarlton.com.

When? Ongoing- August 13 Event? Art expo Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space E Call 17 717-441 or email info@alriwaqartspace.com.

When? Ongoing-August 18 Event? Summer camp Venue? Riffa View International School and LIFE-FIT Fitness Centre E Call 33 001-261, email info@lifefit-bahrain.com or visit www.lifefit-bahrain.com.

When? Ongoing-August 18 Event? Summer camp Venue? Um Al Hassam Villa 1138, Road 3322, Block 333 E Call 17 322-570.

When? Ongoing-August 22 Event? Wahooo! Summer camp Venue? City Centre Bahrain E Call 17 692-424 or WhatsApp 33 001-261.

When? Ongoing-August 25 Event? Summer camp Venue? Bahrain Ballet Centre E Call 17 693-232 or 39 239-866.

When? Ongoing-August 25 Event? Kung Fu Summer Camp Venue? Bahrain Taichi & Wushu Center E Visit www. bahrainkungfukidz.com.

When? Ongoing-August 30 Event? Summer camp Venue? Berlitz Bahrain and Bodyline Fitness Centre E Call 17 827-847, 17 694-233 or visit www.berlitz-bahrain.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Capital Club Ghabga

George & Nicholas

Sumeet & Ziad

Jennifer & Michael

Dany & Suzy

Mohammed Rasool & Bala

Renuka & Dorry

Joy & Richard

Nizar & Robin

Capital Club held a Member Appreciation Ghabga at its premises in Bahrain Financial Harbour.

Sumeet, Fatema, Ziad, Hussain & Wafa

Sigi & Sarina

Fatema & Asfia

Kiran, Danni & Steve

Ramzi, Nizar & Claude

Faisal & Ravi

Stefan, Aline, Steffen & Bernd

24 August 2016

Alexandra & Martine

Faisal, Caroline & Kevin

Marcelo & Tarek

Isa & Ziad

Siddhesh & Sandip Chitre

Alexander & Hanan

Nizar & Robin

Harinder, Amrit & Mary

Niamh & Fraser

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

OFF-ROAD EXPERIENCE When? Ongoing-August 31 Event? 4X4 driving Venue? Bahrain International Circuit The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir has reopened its popular Land Rover Experience. Throughout the week, fans will be able to visit one of the most striking motorsport facilities in the entire Middle East, the Land Rover Experience Centre at BIC, and get a chance to experience a 4x4 adventure. Located in the heart of the Sakhir desert, the centre is the only one of its kind in the region. This includes 32 natural and man-made obstacles such as slide slopes, humps, rocks, gravel roads and watercourses. Fans can enjoy the Land Rover Experience between 9am and 2pm.

They will have the chance to choose between two experiences: the first is as a passenger, while one of Land Rover’s lead instructors drives the course; with the

SUPER SCIENCE SHOW When? August 3-4 Event? Science display Venue? Bahrain National Museum Children aged three years and above will be taught first-hand some basic science knowledge in a fun and educational show. The event, which is being held in collaboration with Planetarium Science Center – Library of Alexandria, runs from 6-8pm.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www. bahrainsummer.bh.

LUIS DE LA CARRASCA TAKES THE STAGE When? August 4 Event? Flamenco Vivo performance Venue? Cultural Hall This show is an artistic voyage that transports the audience into the heart of Andalusian Spain. Led by flamenco dancer, choreographer and singer Luis de la Carrasca and his company – Flamenco Vivo. The group, which comprises young French and Andalusian dance and music talents, has made its mark on the world stage over the past two decades by breathing new life into this traditional Spanish art form.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

26 August 2016

When? Ongoing-August 30 Event? Studio Ceramics Art Camp Venue? Seef Mall E Call 17 002-911.

When? Ongoing-August 31 Event? Land Rover Experience Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Call 17 450-000 or email info@bic.com.bh.

other being an opportunity to get behind the wheel to take on the facility’s many challenges head on. The Passenger Experience lasts for 90 minutes and costs BD12 per person and the Driver Experience goes on for as long as 120 minutes at a cost of BD65 per person. One can experience the full line-up of Land Rover models and, in addition, group bookings for events ranging from birthdays to team building sessions are also welcomed.

Call 17 450-000 or email info@bic.com.bh.

3D LANDSCAPING When? August 4-7 Event? Art Workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum A workshop on creating marvellous 3D landscapes using found materials and shadows to produce wonderful worlds and narratives from sheer imagination.

It runs from 4-9pm and is suitable for children aged four to 11 years.

When? Ongoing-August 31 Event? Young Coder Club Summer Camp Venue? Al Shakhurah Youth Center E Call 17 375-436 or 33 483-800.

When? August 3 Event? Performance Evaluation Venue? The Domain Hotel This is the 16th in a series of evening workshops, bringing together themes of leadership, management, empowerment, strategy execution and breaking down barriers between people, teams, departments, divisions and companies.

E Call 17 404-955.

When? August 3-4 Event? Science display Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

ART OF RECYCLING WORKSHOP When? August 4-7 Event? Art Workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum While most junk has to be destroyed, there is still much left over that we can use to create art, called recycled art.

This involves looking at trash in new and inventive ways and making it into something useful or aesthetically appealing.

Artist Narjis Nasabi will show youngsters how to turn trash into something to treasure. The class, which runs from 4-9pm, is for children aged seven to 15 years and materials are supplied.

Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

When? August 4 Event? Flamenco Vivo performance Venue? Cultural Hall E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

When? August 4-7 Event? 3D Landscaping Workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

When? August 4-7 Event? Art of Recycling Workshop Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-777 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.

When? August 6-20 Event? Art Course Venue? Riffa AlMashtan Avenue (Artplus Things-To-Do) E Call 17 590-409, 77 393-337 or email info@thingstodobahrain.net.

When? August 7-14 Event? Performing arts workshop Venue? Bahrain Art Center E Call 39 139-720.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Eid Celebration

HE Nor Huda, Charges de Affairs of the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam, held an Eid Al Fitr open house reception at her residence.

Muslie, Hadi, HE Nor Huda & Majidah

Sarina & Sigi

Amin, Hadi, Muslie, HE Nor Huda, Mohan, Ashraf & Basheer

Khalid, Majidah, Hadi, Muslie, HE Nor Huda, Sunny, Muqeem, Nida & Saher

Namrin & HE Nor Huda

Bottom L-R: Hani, Zaty, HE Nor Huda & Dijah Top L-R: Sally, Zainal, Niza & Marsya

Fitria, Wita, HE Nor Huda, Dean, Habibie & Hrhardi

George, Anne, HE Nor Huda & Hani

HE Nor Huda & Sally

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August 2016 27

happenings

PEN AND INK CLASSES When? August 6-20

Event? Art Course

Venue? Riffa AlMashtan Avenue (Artplus Things-To-Do)

Create your own graphic art in a dedicated creative space with a professional technical/graphic art teacher.

Improve your design and layout skills in mechanical ink drawing and illustration using a variety of media and learn valuable tips and techniques during this threeweek course.

Learn proper graphic design layout using the professional tools of draftsmen as you produce your own hand-drawn art. This course is an introduction to the art of precision illustration on paper using pencil, pen, paints and gold leaf. You will become familiar with the methods and techniques of mechanical drawing using the T-square, triangles, and compass while learning valuable tips.

The class is limited to six people and a supply packet

is included in the fee of BD50.

Call 17 590-409, 77 393-337 or email info@ thingstodobahrain.net.

YOU CAN DANCE IF YOU WANT TO When? August 7-14 Event? Performing arts workshop Venue? Bahrain Art Center This summer experience the joy of dance and performance at the Bahrain Art Center. The event is a three-week intensive workshop for children aged six to 15 years, who are passionate about dance, theatre and poetry.

Professional instructors from Italy, Canada, Bahrain and Saudi teach the classes using unique lessons in the performing arts. Check out the Bahrain Art Center Facebook page for full details. It costs BD100 for one week and BD260 for three weeks.

Call 39 139-720.

AN OPERATIC EVENING

When? August 8 Event? Bahrain Writers‘ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? August 9 Event? Bahrain Writers‘ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant Enjoy an evening discussing and reciting poetry with fellow enthusiasts at 7.30pm.

When? August 16 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net.

When? August 18-31 Event? Lego Exhibition Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre E Call 17 558-800.

LEGO EXHIBITION

When? August 16 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Soak in a bit of culture this month as La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art screens an operatic film, La Bohème, on August 16.

Few operas enjoy the widespread popularity of the renowned Italian composer Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème. In the Metropolitan Opera’s more than one hundred years, only Aida has been performed more often. For this production, Franco Zeffirelli designed the sets and costumes of extraordinary realism and beauty. What’s even more astonishing is Zeffirelli’s direction that mirrors the music so

When? August 18-31 Event? Art expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition

and Convention Centre Bahrain will have its first LEGO exhibition, not only for fans of the plastic construction toys, but also for art lovers. This unique event promises to be family-friendly with lots of fun.

Call 17 558-800.

closely in the action taking place on stage.

Conducted by James Levine, the cast includes Jose Carreras, Teresa Stratas and Renata Scotto, amongst others.

The screening starts at 8pm and tickets are priced at BD10, which can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening. The restaurant starts serving from 6.30pm.

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

28 August 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdark happenings

DANCE WITH DUFFEY When? August 4 Event? DJ Duffey performanc Venue? Cavallo Club, Atiram Premier Hotel Enjoy an entertaining performance as DJ Duffey takes to the decks at Cavallo Club.

Having being on the dance scene for the last few years, DJ Duffey has quickly climbed the ranks, spinning in the hottest nightclubs in downtown Dallas. She is also the official DJ for underground rap legend Curren$y and has completed two tours with him.

Duffey says she loves DJing as everything is so raw and unpredictable.

Motivated by the response from the crowds, she doesn’t look at herself just as a DJ, but more as an entertainer. And that’s exactly what Bahrain is going to get – full blown entertainment!

Call 35 181-111.

JAM IN YOUR JAMMIES

When? August 4 Event? Disco Nap Venue? Camelot Camelot will be hosting the most comfy party you have ever been to on the island. Don your coolest PJs and join in this pyjama party for an unforgettable night with master selectas Sami Dee and Captain Tea. They’ll be dispensing some of the finest funk, boogie, house and disco around.

Entry is BD5 at the door (cash only) and includes a free glass of Disco Juice (Camelot’s infamously strong, tasty sangria).

Partygoers are encouraged to turn up in their favourite PJs, which is optional. No shorts or flip flops for guys allowed.

Call 39 977-540.

IT’S RAINING MADNESS When? August 12 Event? Beat Beach Rain Party Venue? Coral Bay Escape the heat this summer as Beat Beach Music Festival returns with a spectacular Rain Party. Be prepared to be wowed by the massive stage with futuristic designs and lights made especially for this night by V3 Designs.

The venue will have two dance floors, one of which will have a massive line-up of DJs playing your favourite tunes from hip-hop and RnB to EDM. At the same time, the ‘Underground Room’ will belt out the hottest underground house music and techno by the top DJs in town and we’re told our cover star may be making an appearance. The crowd will be surprised with LED and fire dancers, LED percussionist and much more. Pre-sale tickets cost BD10 and are available at www.TogetherinBahrain.com or at the door priced at BD10 for ladies and BD15 for gents.

VIP Tables for groups are also available.

Call 66 302-112 or 66 331-366.

30 August 2016

CUBAN TUNES When? Ongoing Event? QBA Inside Band Venue? Tapas Bar, Sofitel Bahrain The island’s nightlife circuit picks up pace again as Sofitel Bahrain adds vibrancy to the party scene by bringing a smoking-hot live Cuban band to town at the venue’s Tapas Bar. QBA Inside (QBA is the phonetic sound of Cuba) is an energetic, passionate and talented combo performing every night starting at 9.30pm as well as during the Friday brunch starting at 1pm.

While you enjoy the amazing view of the ‘Arabian Gulf from the breathtaking terrace, QBA Inside will regale you with a mix of Cuban traditional music, and also contemporary and international songs.

Call 17 636-363.

When? August 4 Event? DJ performance Venue? Club XS Calling all house music lovers for a night full of house and dance music at Club XS featuring the Middle East Award winning DJ VJMP3, along side DJ Steve Sinclair from the UK and DJ Inquisit from the USA. Doors open from 6pm. Entry BD5 for men (after 11pm), free for ladies.

E Call 34 419-910 / 33 057-616.

When? August 4 Event? DJ Night Venue? Brazil Lounge Adliya DJ Detour, who is best known for spinning R&B and hip-hop, and DJ Sonia, known for commercial dance tunes, are going to rock the craziest party happening at everyone’s favourite, Brazil Lounge; you don‘t want to miss out. Entry BD5. Ladies free before 11pm.

E Call 33 288-437.

When? August 4 Event? DJ Duffey performance Venue? Cavallo Club, Atiram Premier Hotel E Call 35 181-111.

When? August 4 Event? Disco Nap Venue? Camelot E Call 39 977-540.

When? August 5 Event? Live Music Venue? Polo Gastro Pub BG Harmony will return to Polo Gastropub for intimate acoustic music on August 5.

They will take the stage from 9pm till late. Entrance is free.

E Call 17 725-000.

When? August 6 Event? Pocket Jazz Venue? Café Amsterdam Fronted by talented Kelly Pollard (vocals, trumpet and sax) Pocket Jazz will charm you with their magical Bluesy smoothness with influences from the 1920s to the 80s between 8pm-11pm.

E Call 17 007-404.

When? August 12 Event? Beat Beach Rain Party Venue? Coral Bay E Call 66 302-112/66 331-366.

When? Ongoing Event? QBA Inside Band Venue? Tapas Bar, Sofitel Bahrain E Call 17 636-363.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Farewell Dinner Qayz Zu’bi, Honorary Consul of Canada, and wife Karina, held a farewell party in honour of HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, and wife Romina, at their residence.

Asia, Michela, Martina & Daniela

Perwin & HE Alfred Simms-Protz

Pauline, Romina, Karina & Bijan

Nada & HE Hatun Demirer

HE Alberto Vecchi, Karina, Romina & Qays Zu’bi

Ann & Perwin

HE Mohammed Ali Siraj

BAHRAIN AL DANA RESORT

HE William Roebuck & William

George, Daniele & Raul

Michele & Isabela

Rocio & Philip

Simonetta & Juan

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August 2016 31

afterdark happenings RAMEE BAISAN HOTEL

Party the Night Away Sway to the funky beats of a new resident band at this London-style restaurant and bar.

Whether you are a fan of pop, rock, reggae or Latino beats, the SOS band at The Warbler has something to cater to everyone’s taste.

The new resident band has built a great reputation with their highenergy performances and diverse musical talent. Teaming with DJ R-High, The Warbler at the Ramee Baisan International Hotel is the place to be at on weekends.

With a British-style concept resembling London street paving along with three massive projector screens, this venue is a haven for sporting enthusiasts. Catch all the latest matches while celebrating the victory of your favourite team with great music.

32 August 2016

For a fun-filled day out, head to The Warbler on Friday for its popular brunch, known as the ‘Friday Frunch’. Enjoy unlimited beverages, gourmet delicacies and a host of entertainment from noon to 4pm.

Meat lovers can enjoy the sizzling memories promotion, with an unlimited steak and beverage package for BD9 throughout the week, or simply a beverage deal for BD14.9.

Combining style with substance, Ramee Baisan is conveniently located off Exhibitions Avenue, and is known for its 105 lavishly decorated rooms and suites. With two great dining options and unsurpassed service, the hotel will exceed hospitality expectations.

Call 17 290-600.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

RAMEE MONROE HOTEL

Maximise the Fun Enjoy foot-tapping tunes from a live band at this popular night spot.

Known as an eminent dine and dance venue, The Hub at Monroe Hotel promises to enthrall partygoers with its new live band, Maximo.

Featuring six talented musicians who have a wealth of performing experience from around the globe, the band was initially formed in the Philippines. They rock out the top-40 songs, dance tunes from rap to hip hop, R&B, party rock and well-loved classic hits.

The Hub also has a different theme night for each day of the week, starting with happy hours from 5pm-9pm everyday, a 30-per-cent discount on food and beverages on Sundays, and angel nights with complimentary beverages for ladies every Saturday, Monday and Wednesday. Guests can enjoy a 20-per-cent discount on their total bill if they jam with the band on Bedroom Jammers night every Wednesday, and there are plenty of games with subsequent prizes to be won on weekends.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Groups can enjoy discounts for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.

The Monroe Hotel is designed to meet the needs of the most discerning corporate or leisure guests. With 151 guest rooms, it is also

equipped with stylish conference halls, fine dining restaurants, a round-the-clock cafĂŠ with live entertainment, a classy sports bar, a night club and swimming pool.

Call 36 916-717 or 36 289-343.

August 2016 33

INTERVIEWS

CROWNING GLORY OF HOUSE MUSIC

ALSO THIS MONTH: 36 A COLLECTOR’S DREAM 38 THE ORIGINAL MUSIC MAN

PUJA TIWARI As the new entertainment season gets into its stride, Puja Tiwari chats to DJ Amy dB who headlined Glass Room’s Beat Beach music festival earlier in the year and will be heading back to the island this month.

Amy dB

M

otivated to break the chains that surround house music, this pioneering female DJ is creating a genre that elevates and influences soulful soundscapes. Palestinian American DJ and producer Amy dB is emerging as the queen of deep and progressive house music. Synthesising soul-inspired transcendent music, she was introduced to the growing, yet fledgling, scene of electronic music in Chicago, where she spent her early years.

After honing her vinyl spinning skills, she gained swift recognition and went on to acquire residencies in some of the biggest party houses in Ibiza, London, the USA and Tel Aviv.

34 August 2016

She tells BTM about her journey in electronica, how she blossomed in the highlysaturated industry, and the challenges of being a femme artist DJ. Tell us about your earliest memories with music and how it influenced your life?

Growing up as a Mediterranean Arab, music is a huge part of the culture as it gave us life and dynamic. One of my first memories was as a toddler, when I couldn’t fall asleep until my dad sang for me. I started piano lessons at six and also joined the school choir. This talent grew as I did and I took it with me to Northwestern University, which has one of the top music

programmes besides Julliard. I was named second place soprano in all of Illinois during my senior year.

And how were you initiated into the electronic music scene?

Chicago is the city of house music, heralded by Frankie Knuckles and Joe Smooth, whom I fondly call ‘Uncle Joe’ because he believes me to be his protégé. Growing up there, I started listening to Paul Oakenfold, Digweed, Sasha and other influencers of the genre. I became the music and nightlife editor of the top social magazine in Chicago, and I had to interview various DJs, helping foment the underground www.bahrainthismonth.com

scene before it even became famous. Because of my love and passion for the music, I helped develop the electronic scene in Chicago while it was still in its early years.

What inspires you about this genre of music?

I get inspired if there is musicality and soul in the electronic music. When you’re playing electronic music, you don’t play acoustic instruments so right away that organic, raw feeling of soul has to be compensated for in this kind of music. Back in the day, it was about the melodic cadences and rhythms that expressed some sort of transcendent soul to it.

My favourites are Nick Warren and Robert Babicz because they used a lot of influences from classical music. Beethoven influenced modern music as I know it. Hernan Cattaneo, the most famed DJ in the genre of deep and progressive house worldwide, is also my consort and dear friend of more than a decade.

How do you describe your music?

I term it as transcendent, elevating and elevated music, that you can listen to in a club or at the beach or even in a religious institute. Electronic music has a lot of stigma attached to it, and people think just because it’s not mainstream, it is seedy. My music breaks these stereotypes and stimulates melodic, aura-infused moods.

You’re wearing an amethyst pendant which is highly regarded for its balancing properties… do you consider yourself spiritual?

Yes, I am a very spiritual person and I did a Master’s degree in divinity at the University of Chicago. I believe that music is God’s universal language and it is proof that a higher power exists because it is the frequency of love.

What’s it like being a female DJ in an industry dominated by males?

It is extremely excruciating and frustrating because of all the sexism that prevails.

Because electronic music is part of the underground scene, you have to start off by dealing with sordid promoters at nightclubs and put up with their greed and vanity. I also get prejudged because I’m a feminine DJ, whereas many female DJs are masculine or butch.

What advice do you have for aspiring DJs? Work your way from the bottom to the top. Go and take a couple of music lessons, or piano lessons, and learn the history of music. Get acquainted with the past of electronic music, as well as other genres like pop, rock, jazz and opera. Also, learn to spin on vinyl records like real DJs and not only through computer software. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Amy dB’s new EP album Inside My Head on Cream Couture Records will be out August 9 on Beatport, Itunes, Traxxsource, Juno and Amazon.

Tell us something people don’t know about you.

I consider myself a modern day renaissance woman, I have a triple major from one of the top schools in the world, a Master’s at the number one divinity school in the world, and I’m constantly educating myself on philosophy and existentialism. I also love race car driving.

How do you perceive Bahrain’s underground music scene?

After playing at Beat Beach, the response I got

from the crowd was amazing. Bahrain is primed to accept house music, which expresses hope and openness, so it’s the natural progression of development for the underground scene. I’m in Bahrain to encourage that, along with my agent Abdulla Jackson as well as Roger Chakhtoura and their respective teams.

Keep an eye on our social media for details of Amy’s next Bahrain appearance.

August 2016 35

interview

Akram Miknas

Akram’soffice collection

A COLLECTOR’S DREAM APPLE SHARMA From the love of collecting to building an empire, Akram Miknas’s story is that of a successful entrepreneur and businessman.

BTM sat down with the man himself to talk about the rich tapestry of his life and a potential new museum for Bahrain.

A

nyone who has been on this island for a few years has, directly or indirectly, been privy to Akram’s vision through his various businesses, such as FP7 and Seven Leisure establishments including Coral Bay, Camelot restaurant and JJ’s.

Lebanese-born Akram studied at his country’s International College and the American University of Beirut. From humble beginnings, he attributes much of his success to working hard right from the start, whether trying to fund himself for schooling or starting a new business.

“I did a lot of work in selling encyclopedias, insurance and then I sold exhibitions for universities, brochures and catalogues, and that’s probably what took me into advertising,” he says.

With funding of USD3,000, Akram started an advertising agency in 1968 with seven friends, who believed in his abilities as a salesman. “It was called Promotions Seven at the beginning,” he adds. “A couple of years later, we had a real hit to the business – my partners decided that they wanted to quit, so I paid the shares and they left.

“We first started doing exhibitions because I 36 August 2016

knew it very well and it was easy for me to start. But when my partners left, I plunged into advertising and became a major agency. By 1975, it was already among the top agencies in Lebanon for the local market. We were not international. There were many Pan-Arab agencies that came out of Lebanon because there was a need to cover the region, especially Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon was a good place. At that time print was the most important medium.”

Leaving Lebanon in 1975, when the war started, he moved to Dubai to establish his company there. It is now a major agency, FP7.

His introduction to Bahrain came through Cathay Pacific when the airline decided to start a route from Bahrain to Hong Kong in 1976.

“Cathay Pacific was a very small local client for me in Beirut,” he says. “I think it was a very important launch for them because this was the biggest thing they had done in the West. From Hong Kong, this was the furthest they had ever come. So I decided to come here and take the challenge and I am happy to say that I was able to get introduced to the management of Cathay Pacific, who became very good friends.”

One of the pieces from the Dubai museum

Akram was an employee, selling tickets for Cathay Pacific and running his agency at the same time. “I learned that Saudi Arabia was the market, so I said great, if Saudi is the market and Cathay has decided on Bahrain to be the gateway for them in the Gulf, maybe it should be the gateway for me too,” he adds. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Akram’s move into hospitality came fairly naturally. Having already had success in Beirut with a restaurant called Big Boy and a popular nightclub, Your Father’s Mustache, he opened a restaurant and nightclub named Infinity in Bahrain, which later became Tarboush in 1979.

“Infinity became very big in Bahrain, almost from day one. It was a very important restaurant and a night out place, with a dance floor and even a small show,” says Akram. “At the same time we started a place called La Taverna, which was the first Italian restaurant in town.”

Business aside, Akram is an avid collector and his passion started from a young age. “I’ve always been interested in antiques,” he says. “I started when I was in high school, collecting stuff here and there. I remember my father had a samovar to make tea. I asked him for it and he gave it to me – it was one of my first pieces, I still have it.”

On one of his travels to Munich, Akram came across a small piece called a Kinora, an early motion picture device. Research into the machine awakened an interest in the field of moving images and led him to start a massive collection, which is now housed at the aptly named Dubai Moving Image Museum.

According to Akram, it’s probably one of the largest museums of its kind in the world, depicting the history of cinema. “One of the pieces in it was used by Walt Disney,” he says.

“It’s a very important museum. I’ve been decorated by Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid for it. It took me two years to get the name Dubai and for the Dubai Government to accept for it to be called a museum.

“During the last five years, we’ve had over 80,000 visitors and it has been mentioned on the web by experts as one of the five must-see museums in the Gulf. So if anybody is in Dubai, I do advise them to go and see it.”

Model cars are also a passion

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The venue holds more than 1,500 pieces purely from Akram’s personal collection and showcases various objects such as the 18th century Dutch peepbox, shadow puppetry, camera obscura, magic lanterns and more.

He plans to do something different in Bahrain by opening a museum at his FP7 office building in Muharraq. “It will probably be called the curiosity museum. Whatever strange things I can collect, I will put in this museum,” he says.

“I will have, for example, a reading glasses section – history of reading glasses; music boxes; cameras; films; paintings; odd but all very special things.”

Talking about his passion for collection he says: “If you’re in our business – communication and advertising, you cannot but fall in love with art, and it’s history; you get very involved. I’m lucky because I’ve had the time to be able to do that. For me to go into the Moving Image Museum was natural – we do TV

commercials every year, we still do more than a 100 now. So, the love of the image and the picture was very obvious. And the love of pretty things is because of the business.”

Akram intends to make the Bahrain museum larger than the one in Dubai with more than 1,500 items on show.

The cheapest thing in his vast collection is a flicker book, which he bought for five pounds, and the most expensive is a Rolls Royce car, which is in hundreds of thousands.

Akram left the advertising business in 2000, handing over the reins to a younger generation to grow it further. He is presently involved in low-income housing, having successfully completed a project of 60 homes in Al Dair, Muharraq, last year. “They were very popular because the price was right. I’m very happy with the support I received from both the Ministry of Housing and the housing bank,” he says.

“So, now we’re building 1,200 flats, and we’re going to commence this project, hopefully, by September. It will be in a place called Jidhafs Al Daih, which is right behind Bahrain Mall.”

Akram’s drive and inspiration comes from living. “If you live, you have a drive. If you don’t have a drive, you’re not living. I really suggest to everyone to look at life with passion and love,” he advises. “And you should do only what you really love; you shouldn’t accept to do anything else.”

In spite of a busy schedule, he balances work and fun with great ease. Even after having accomplished so much, Akram doesn’t intend to stop anytime soon.

“I work very hard and I play very hard. It’s a cliché, I know, but this is reality. I think because I enjoy my work, I can work hard,” he says.

August 2016 37

interview

THE ORIGINAL MUSIC MAN APPLE SHARMA Bahraini Abdulla Al Gannas has been one of the pioneers in shaping the local entertainment scene. He takes a walk down memory lane and shares his stories with BTM.

A

bdulla Al Gannas, fondly known as Abdulla Guitar, has been a stalwart of Bahrain in more ways than one. Not only has he been a major influencer in drastically transforming the local entertainment environment by bringing the music scene alive in the Kingdom, but he has also been responsible for introducing some of the biggest hospitality brands to the region.

Abdulla’s interesting career path has taken him around the globe to 66 countries. He started his first proper job in 1972 working for Gulf Air in the reservations department.

“We used to collect all the telexes coming out from different stations and we booked them through Gulf Air because in the old days we controlled reservations; there were no computers,” he says. “I invented a lot of things for Gulf Air with regards to procedures.”

Abdulla worked his way up and held various positions from supervisor to shift leader, sales manager, administration officer and marketing officer. After 24 years with the company, Abdulla bid farewell to Gulf Air in 1996 when the airline introduced its early retirement scheme.

An impressive contacts list stood him in good stead in furthering his career and he was snapped up by the then Le Meridien (now The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain) as sales executive, and was promoted to sales manager then assistant director of sales, in record time.

In 2000, he was asked to promote the Four Seasons in the GCC from a satellite office in Bahrain, and between 2003 and 2004, he was appointed regional director of sales for Four 38 August 2016

Abdulla Al Gannas

Seasons worldwide. “I made the name for Four Seasons in the Gulf,” he says. “We did road shows every year, I made the managers of Four Seasons come and see the clients, which nobody used to do.”

Abdulla’s other achievements include working for the One and Only in the Maldives and Mazagan Beach Resort in Morocco and he is currently making waves as the director of sales – GCC for Velaa Private Island luxury resort in the Maldives.

Apart from an illustrious career, Abdulla is renowned on the island as one of the first musicians to revolutionise the country’s night life, earning him the nickname of Abdulla Guitar.

His passion for music started in childhood but his true musical journey began in the 1950s and ‘60s. “I was involved in acting and music and learned to play the violin, cello and double bass,” he says. “My friends were all from England; they would put on English music and I liked it. So, I learned from listening to Dave Clark, The Hollies, The Beatles, Engelbert Humperdinck, Tom Jones, Hank [the guitarist for The Shadows], Cliff Richard, Trini Lopez, Mary Hopkin, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, The Who. The songs were nice in those days.”

A self-taught guitarist, Abdulla started playing the instrument in the ‘60s and purchased his first Gibson electric guitar in 1968. “I bought it from a guy from the American Navy. It cost me BD30,” he reminisces. Without any formal training, he learned to play various numbers, such as House of the Rising Sun and his favourite, My Way.

Poster for Bahrain’s first Eid party

Abdulla started his own band in the ‘60s called The Arabian Knights, which later became Los Toros, performing English, Arabic and Persian songs. He organised the first ever Eid party in 1975 at the Delmon Hotel, and played to a full house, transforming the entertainment scene on the island for years to come.

“I started doing my individual solos and did my first recording in 1980 in Egypt,” he adds. “I re-recorded the same songs in a different style in Orlando, Florida, in 1982.

Apart from playing at popular local haunts, such as Upstairs Downstairs, he has also performed across the globe from Kuwait to London, Orange County, Hawaii, Fiji and more.

Not a great fan of rap, Abdulla believes that today’s music is very commercial. But, at the age of 71, music still flows in Abdulla’s veins and remains a big part of his life. www.bahrainthismonth.com

india independence

A Special Supplement Commemorating India's 69th Independence Day

40 A Record-breaking Year HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Indian Ambassador, on his first year in post and unprecedented commercial growth.

41 Putting His Money Where His Heart Is Varghese Kurian explains what makes Bahrain the ideal place for Indian business.

42 Dr Bahaa Eldin Fateha The CEO of a new hospital talks transparent pricing and service ethics.

44 Subash Ghai and Rahul Puri Introducing Bahrain’s newest cinema experience.

45-53 The Best of India From fabulous food to waste management, retail and banking, the Kingdom’s large Indian commercial sector is active and expanding.

54 Incredible India Amazing must-see sights for those visiting the sub-continent.

55 Indian Bites News from Bahrain’s Indian community.

Commercial Index Al Areen Palace & Spa.............................................. 49 Al Tawfeek Maintenance Services......................... 45 Ambassador Stores (Alba)......................................... 53 Bahrain Cinema Company......................................... 55 Life Insurance Corp. (International)......................... 50 Middle East Hospital.................................................. 43 Mukta A2 Cinemas...................................................... 47 Shell Fisheries............................................................. 52 The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge.......................... 51

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2016 39

india independence

A Record Breaking Year

HE Alok Kumar Sinha

LIZ O’REILLY As Indian investment in Bahrain hits USD1 billion for the first time, Indian Ambassador His Excellency Alok Kumar Sinha speaks to BTM about his first year in post and the impetus for such unprecedented growth.

40 August 2016

On his arrival in Bahrain last year, Ambassador Sinha talked about his government’s recently-launched programmes, Skill India, Make in India and Digital India, and it is these, along with liberalisation of business ownership in India, that he credits with pushing investment.

He says: “My first year has been interesting. It has been a very productive time in several ways both in terms of increased high-level political exchanges and on the economic and investment fronts. Indian investment in Bahrain has surpassed USD1 billion,

this is in areas such as aluminium but also increasingly in the financial sector.

“There have also been significant investments coming from Bahrain to India. Our Make in India initiative, launched by the government to encourage multi-national, as well as national, companies to manufacture their products in India, and other policies including the liberalisation of investment policy in India, have made it an attractive proposition.

In fact, the World Bank has named India as the number one investment destination.”

He adds that, after three or four years of declining trade between the two countries, partly due to the sharp downturn in oil prices, Indian exports to Bahrain have increased significantly by around 25 per cent over the past year taking the bilateral trade between the two nations to more than USD1 billion.

However, Ambassador Sinha is keen to point out that India’s growing attraction for business is unlikely to result in an exodus of the expat workers who are so important to Bahrain’s economy.

“I would look at it from a different perspective,” he says. “India is blessed with a demographic divided with two thirds of the population below the age of 35 years. Another government flagship is the Skill India programme, which aims to ensure our young people have the skills needed for the country’s continued growth. This has created a potential for a much closer relationship including enhanced economic ties between India and Bahrain and other GCC countries.”

Bahrain is home to around 2,000 Indian businesses and between 300,000 and 350,000 expatriate Indians and this number is growing, according to His Excellency.

And there are plans for even closer economic and commercial ties. The Ambassador says: “The first joint business council of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry took place in New Delhi last September and a number of areas for greater co-operation were identified such as food processing, the IT sector and pharmaceuticals. A second meeting is planned for later this year and there’s also a proposal to have an India Week in Bahrain in December to showcase Indian products.”

Culturally too, there are exciting times ahead as 2017 sees the 70th anniversary of Indian independence and there are sure to be many celebrations involving Bahrain’s large expatriate Indian population, though His Excellency remains tight lipped about exactly what is planned.

One thing he would however confirm is that it’s hoped the new Indian Embassy, which is very close to completion, will be opened in time for Republic Day at the beginning of the anniversary year. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Varghese Kurian

Putting His Money Where His Heart Is Varghese Kurian, chairman and managing director of Al Namal Group and VKL Group of Companies, explains his loyalty to Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mr Kurian started out in business in a small way and set out on his own and his first venture, the now construction giant Al Namal Group, was born. Today, he is Bahrain’s largest Indian investor and Al Namal has gone on to become a leading light in the island’s construction industry having completed more than 350 projects of all types.

The Al Namal Group of Companies employs a multinational workforce headed by highly qualified project managers, and encompasses a range of companies dealing with all aspects of the construction process. It has now become a conglomerate – one of the biggest construction companies in Bahrain with in-house facilities for electromechanical, HVAC, aluminium, interiors, wrought iron etc to execute turnkey projects. Saach International Trading is the sole agent for several brands of elevators and air conditioning systems.

VKL Group of Companies mainly invests, develops and promotes real estate and is also entrenched into dredging, hospitality, trading and healthcare sectors.

V.K. Universal Property Management Co SPC, a part of the VKL Group of Companies, was established in 2004 and has invested and developed some of the

most prestigious projects in the Kingdom.

To supplement the efforts of the Bahraini Government’s effort to provide medical care to the people, his group is also involved in the healthcare sector with two Middle East Medical Centers and the recently opened Middle East Hospital.

However, Mr Kurian is not purely about commercial success. Of the healthcare ventures he says: “The healthcare business is not a money-making venture – I have two medical centres, over two years, both serving the community. We have also started a hospital and this is part of our social commitment, it’s an affordable hospital to serve medium income people.”

Asked why he chose Bahrain as his power base, Mr Kurian is quick to pay tribute to the island and its people saying: “Bahrain is the best place in the whole Gulf.

“Under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa the Prime Minister and His Highness Shaikh Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa the Crown Prince, the government of Bahrain has liberalised the policies and granted more freedom for investors and this has considerably enhanced the business reputation of Bahrain. In my personal opinion, Bahrain is the best place to invest.

“Though I was born in India, it is Bahrain which has made me what I am today. I am grateful to the loving and hospitable people of this kingdom who have helped me on several occasions and I treasure the long lasting friendship I have developed with them over the years.”

He also adds: “It is a good place to live. For expatriates, living here in this country is better than any other place and I’ve been to many places.”

After 30 successful years, Mr Kurian says he has no further ambitions, but he has no plans to retire either adding that he is keen to work on improving the already excellent relations between Bahrain and India.

He says: “There are many business relations going on between Indian and Bahraini companies, there have been several meetings taking place and I have been part of that. I hope there will be more business coming from India to Bahrain. The government is encouraging that. There are also Bahrain investments in India. And, if Bahraini companies want to invest in India, I can also help with that.”

And asked to give the reasons for his success, he cites hard work, the help of God and good staff.

Mr Kurian’s philosophy on life is very simple. He says: ‘’Every man who has a vision must work towards realising it. You must work with sincerity, hard work and perseverance. You should always lend a helping hand to the underprivileged and to those in distress.” It is the perseverance that saw him through difficult times and the results are there for all to see.

He says his business goals are very clear cut, to run the business smoothly following ethics to the core.

August 2016 41

india independence MIDDLE EAST HOSPITAL

Affordable High-quality Healthcare

Dr Bahaa Eldin Fateha

GEORGE F MIDDLETON Dr Bahaa Eldin Fateha speaks to BTM about a unique approach to make healthcare affordable for all.

42 August 2016

Dr Bahaa is CEO of the newly launched Middle East Hospital (MEH), part of VKL Holdings and Al Namal Group which also runs the island’s two Middle East Medical Centres. The facility, which has more than 60 per cent Bahraini medical staff, operates various major departments including Surgery, Medicine, Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Orthopaedics, Ophthalmology and Ear, Nose and Throat. It also has a large accident and emergency department, neuroscience with advanced spinal and neurosurgical specialties, anaesthetics, dental and maxillofacial, physiotherapy and up-to-date imaging services. Its charging strategy is patient-centric and a new development for Bahrain.

Dr Bahaa explains: “The most important thing for the patient, especially in the private sector, is that he wants high quality care at a reasonable price. Most importantly, he wants to know how much – precisely – it will cost, in advance, rather than being surprised by sky-high bills. In our hospital, the cost of care, whether surgical, medical or both, is a capped.

“When we calculate the cost of service, we consider that the hospital is supposed to provide service before anything else. In order to provide

service, we have to consider what we can call ‘reasonable return on investment’. For us, a reasonable return is that the patient is relieved of his symptoms and at the same time he doesn’t suffer financially as a result of getting his treatment in a private hospital, which is very important.

“We must consider the patient first – and if someone suffers from a disease, he should never end up economically ruined as a result of trying to get treatment. To me, in particular, and to us in general, this is our basic rule in healthcare – because providing a health service is a responsibility and is a duty. We should look at the patient as a human being, not as a number. If you look at the patient as a human being, believe me, things will be different; that’s what we do.”

He adds that conditions and illnesses are classified into diagnosis-related groups which are considered minor, intermediate, major, ex-major and complex.

And while a simple intervention or minor incision will not cost much, the doctor is keen to point out that at MEH, something as complex as brain surgery will also cost “far less than anyone could imagine”.

He says: “I shouldn’t talk about numbers but definitely we have discussed this with some insurance companies and they said, ‘this is amazing and we hope others will do the same’ because for the insurance companies, when a patient comes, they don’t want surprises, they don’t want what we call open bills, the sky’s the limit – no, that’s unacceptable.

It’s unacceptable to them, to us and to the patient. So we have to reach a situation where insurance companies know how much they will reimburse us and, for the patient, if he doesn’t have insurance, he should know in advance what it will cost, he should know the maximum that he will pay. Not the average, not the minimum, the maximum!”

Asked about the prospect of future expansion, Dr Bahaa continues: “It’s my understanding that there is a very strong demand for health services in Bahrain and it’s time the private sector should take its role in providing these services.

“If you offer health services in the right way – that means that you have the right investment, the equipment and you have the human resources and good management – you shouldn’t lose, as some investors might think. You can lose if you put in your mind something other than providing a service and that distorts your thinking. If you bring a high quality service to people at a reasonable cost, they will come to you. If you provide the service at a high cost or a low quality, people will not come, then you can’t complain that people are not coming and you are losing.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

india independence

From Bollywood to Bahrain well. We have some negotiations ongoing and will certainly be spreading out our presence in the future.

With the expansion of Mukta Arts to Bahrain, do you plan on shooting any films in the region?

SG: Of course. Films are in our blood and we love to explore new locations. Bahrain has some lovely venues, and the people here are so welcoming and hospitable. We would certainly be interested in looking at it as a shooting destination.

Do you plan on collaborating with Arabic film stars and directors/producers?

SG: We are always looking to collaborate with good talent and the film producers, directors and artists here are wonderfully talented. I am sure that our presence here will mean that we can strike some interesting associations with the local industry.

Subhash Ghai

Rahul Puri

One of the Indian cinemas

Puja Tiwari chats with Subhash Ghai, eminent film director and executive chairman of a film production company, and managing director Rahul Puri about their latest project in Bahrain.

We have built a truly world-class theatre, coupled with a strong customer loyalty and service, which I have no doubt will make us stand apart from competitors in the country.

An innovative multiplex franchise, Mukta A2 Cinemas, will soon be open to moviegoers at the Juffair Mall. It is under the umbrella of Mukta Arts Limited, one of India’s leading production houses. Mukta A2 promises an unparalleled film experience with revolutionary sound technology, modern projection systems and comfortable seating. The founders tell us more about what to expect in terms of the movie experience.

What factors played a part in deciding to expand to Bahrain?

RP: Bahrain is a wonderfully interesting space, with a cosmopolitan crowd who adore a great movie experience. This was the key factor in deciding to come. Theatres will be successful when there is a public willing to patronise, and the next step was finding the location, which we are lucky with.

What gives Mukta A2 cinemas an edge over other cinemas in Bahrain?

SG: The Mukta brand is synonymous with films.

44 August 2016

What else does Mukta Arts have in store for Bahrain and the region in the future?

RP: Mukta has plans to consolidate in Bahrain and to expand into other GCC countries as

How did you venture into the film industry?

SG: Being the son of a dentist, I was pushed towards becoming a commerce graduate but my interest lay in writing, directing and acting in theatre. I did many plays in college, and my father showed me the ad for the Film and Television Institute in Pune. He encouraged me to pursue my passion and learn the work professionally. I trained to be an actor but when I came to Mumbai, I realised that the commercial industry was very tough. I began to write stories for films and then one day legendary producer NN Sippy offered to direct it.

How do you unwind after a long day?

RP: I enjoy spending time with my children and hearing about their day. I then like to watch TV and read a book. It helps to move away from the entertainment business after having a whole day devoted to it, and thus a lot of my hobbies and pursuits outside of work are not entertainment related.

What has been your proudest achievement to date?

SG: That would be the set up of Whistling Woods International, my film school. It was a 20-year project for me and in 2006, we opened a world-class school in Mumbai. It is considered to be one of the top film schools in the world, with over 800 students currently. www.bahrainthismonth.com

AL TAWFEEK

Cleaning Up in Business In business for more than a quarter century, this group upholds its values to remain one of the island’s leading waste management companies.

Established in 1980 by former independent sewage tank driver Krishnan Nair Padmanabhan, Al Tawfeek has diversified over the years to offer a wide range of waste management solutions, such as liquid waste management using sewage tankers; solid waste management using skip loaders and compactors; and clearing drainage line blockages in the piping systems of factories and facilities using high pressure jetting services.

The company logically expanded into housekeeping and maintenance services including contract cleaning for shops, malls, commercial buildings, offices, factories and villas and specialist services such as sofa and rug shampooing and cleaning of hoods and extractor fans, for large commercial kitchens, escalators, external glass and cladding on multi-storey buildings.

Al Tawfeek also supplies skilled labourers,

such as air-conditioning mechanics, electricians, plumbers and carpenters as well as office boys/girls, tea boys/girls, technical staff, support staff, office assistants, messengers and porters all on a contract basis.

The qualified and dedicated staff work round the clock to ensure the best service and the company’s emphasis is on providing a safe, clean and healthy environment using state-ofthe-art technology.

Call 80 001-130.

The Indian family-owned business also keeps strong connections with the subcontinent and has recently opened a four-star business hotel, the PGS Vedanta, in the heart of Kochi close to prominent hospitals, shopping malls and more.

Guaranteeing luxury amenities, quality service that is second to none and a contemporary setting, the hotel has 40 rooms and two banquet halls as well as two well-regarded restaurants and a 24-hour coffee shop.

An entire floor is dedicated to wellbeing with a luxury spa offering traditional avurveda services, a salon where you can take advantage of pampering treatments, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a swimming pool.

Customer Care Counts Since 1980, Al Tawfeek has offered its clients an entire range of waste management solutions undertaken by a reliable and committed professional team who together provide the highest standards of service available within the Kingdom.

The company uses state-of-the-art technologies in the waste and industrial cleaning industries to ensure a safe, clean and healthy environment.

SEWAGE TANKERS & WAST MANAGEMENT Collection & disposal of up to 4,000 US Gallons of accumulated sludge, sediments or oil waste SKIP & COMPACTOR SERVICES Skip containers are provided, emptied, disinfected and replaced promptly & efficiently round the clock. Collection, compacting and disposal of edible and associated waste happens in a hygenic and effective manner.

HYDRO JETTING & DRAINAGE CLEARANCE Drainage and blockage removals using high pressure jetting machines applicable to multi-storey buildings, marine & industrial piping & draining systems as well as pipelines & refineries, CLEANING & REMOVALS The entire range of specialized housekeeping & maintenance services including contractual cleaning of shops, malls, multi-storey buildings, offices & factories (both internal & external) is offered from this division.

A fleet of well-maintained and covered 6 wheeler pick-ups is at our clients’ disposal for dismantling, packing, forwarding unpacking & resetting equipment & furniture.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2016 45

india independence MUKTA A2 CINEMAS

Lights, Camera, Action

One of India’s favourite cinema operators is coming to Juffair.

Mukta Arts is one of India’s leading production houses with business interests across the entertainment spectrum from exhibitions to education. Founded by film director Subhash Ghai, the company has an extensive library and is recognised for providing quality entertainment.

In 2012 it created its own brand of multiplexes, Mukta A2 Cinemas, which is currently the sixth largest multiplex chain in India and one of the fastest growing with 41 screens in operation

Singaporean Eid

and plans to increase that number to 100. There is also a thriving distribution and programming business, Mukta Movies Distributors, and Mukta Arts has opened Asia’s largest film, television, animation and media school – Whistling Woods International, which enjoys a worldwide reputation for top-class education.

Having made its mark in India, Mukta A2 Cinemas has set its sights on expansion into the Middle East and Bahrain’s business-friendly nature, combined with the island’s movie-loving audiences, makes Juffair the ideal spot to launch its first venue – a six-screen multiplex,

Martin & Birgit

Barbara, Ingo & Sigi

with seating for 960.

Mukta A2 Cinemas is known for providing guests with an unparalleled multiplex experience through state-of-the-art technology, including Dolby Atmos and Quantum Logic 3D surround sound; modern projection systems; comfortable seating with several options to choose from, including VIP recliners, rockers and sofas; a pleasant ambiance and the very best of English, Arabic and Indian films, including new releases.

Food and beverage offerings will include a range including popcorn, hotdogs, nachos and hot and cold drinks. There’ll also be personalised order tracking and service at your seat and the venue will have special deals for group bookings, birthdays and corporate events.

Tracking show timings and online booking is easy with the Mukta A2 Cinemas website with which online ticketing and entertainment is just one click away.

Call 17 813-666 or email enquiry@ muktaa2cinmeas.com

Adam, Shaikha & Ahmad

Arine & Stefan

Sarina and Sigi held a Singaporean Eid celebration at their residence in Janabiyah.

Sigi & Sarina

Lalaine & William

Zuliyana & Menojn

Seetow & Alice

46 August 2016

Fuziah, Nurui & Nazri

Esme, Sofia, Camila, Zahraa, Abdel & Borja

Norman, Hanny, Sigi & Stefan

Pontus, Urs, Ires, Mark, Eric, Diana, Robert & Sarina

www.bahrainthismonth.com

india independence

AL AREEN PALACE RESORT AND SPA

A Feast for Kings Murg Malai Kebab Learn how to make delectable Indian kebabs with a recipe straight from the kitchen of this newly-opened Indian restaurant.

Adding to the arsenal of culinary masterpieces, Roti Boti offers a fine dining experience within the stunning oasis of the Al Areen Palace & Spa. The restaurant features north Indian cuisine, specifically the dum pukht style of cooking, where meat and vegetables are cooked slowly on a low flame.

The concept of the restaurant revolves around homeliness, where the guests are made to feel like the experience is an extension of their own dining table.

Besides well-loved dishes like biryani and saag, the dessert menu takes on an unconventional route and offers mishty doi, a Bengali dish made of fermented sweet yogurt and jaggery, traditional Indian ice cream called kulfi and creamy rice pudding, phirni.

Roti Boti will host food festivals periodically, which will be graced by renowned celebrity chefs from India. This is when food from various regions of India will be showcased, including the popular cuisine of the south.

A set menu priced at BD18++ is available before the official launch of the restaurant so guests can get a taste of what is in store for their palate.

On the occasion of the Indian Independence Day, Roti Boti brings you a mouthwatering recipe for kebabs you can make at home.

Ingredients needed: • 800 g boneless chicken • 1⁄4 cup cream cheese • 4 teaspoons of coriander stem • 1⁄2 cup cream • 7 teaspoons garlic paste • 3 tablespoons ginger paste • 8 green chilies • 1⁄2 teaspoon ground mace • 1⁄2 teaspoon ground nutmeg • oil, for basting • salt 1. Take boneless chicken pieces and marinate with ginger and garlic paste, finely chopped green chili, salt, and lemon juice. Set aside for a few minutes.

2. Take a flat bowl, and add yoghurt, cream cheese, ginger garlic paste, finely chopped coriander stem, mace powder, green cardamom, and nutmeg powder.

3. Mix the chicken together, add little cream and keep aside for another 45 minutes.

4. Pierce the chicken with the skewers and cook in a tandoor oven.

5. Serve steaming hot with mint chutney and naan bread.

Call 17 845-000.

48 August 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Reservations: 17845000

www.alareenpalace.com

india independence LIC INTERNATIONAL

All Eventualities Covered With more than 25 years in the Gulf, this insurance giant can meet every need.

LIC of India, the insurance behemoth of the Indian sub-continent, joined hands with International Agencies Company Ltd (Intercol) back in 1989 to form a joint stock company with the aim of catering to the huge Indian expatriate community in Bahrain and across the Gulf. Over the last 27 years, the company has gone from strength to strength.

With an asset base of USD1,541 million and life fund of USD1,346 million, LIC International stands out as one of the major players in longterm insurance and operates in Bahrain, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Oman. Operations in Bahrain, the UAE and Oman are through fullyfledged licensed branches while in Kuwait and Qatar the company markets its policies through its chief agents.

The wide range of products has been designed to cater to the needs of every segment – life coverage, attractive returns, liquidity, provision for children’s education or marriage, health coverage and pensions. The company also has a group life insurance plan suitable for different organisations, establishments and associations.

LIC International has a long and strong track record of generating good profits driven by sound and consistent income on a diversified global portfolio that has generated steady investment income and strong margins in excess of guaranteed payments.

The company has customised products for children which are designed

50 August 2016

to take care of the expenses for their education, start in life or marriage etc. And there are products with guaranteed returns for those who want to avoid the risk of today’s volatile market. LIC International also has unique products which offer a pension throughout a client’s life. So overall, there is a financial solution for almost any kind of requirement and branches and consultants can provide comprehensive details.

Call 39 936-618.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Football Screening

HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, held a football dinner at the Bahrain Rugby Club.

Ires & Cathy

Perwin, HE Alfred Simms-Protz, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre & Georges

Georges, Perwin, Jihan, Sameera, Federico & Romina

Adel

Nabila & Faith

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Adel, Mehdi, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre & HE Alberto Vecchi

HE Mohammed Ben Youssef, HE Ahmed Rachid Khattab, HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Cathy, Marco & Dominique

Robert & Ires

Sam, Khyal, Ines & Kia

August 2016 51

india independence SHELL FISHERIES COMPANY

The Man on a Mission How one man anticipated the region’s seafood needs to found a multinational business.

Shell Fisheries Company – a name to reckon with in the fisheries industry – is comprised of professionals who have specialised in frozen seafood storage and distribution for more than two decades. The company has its roots in Saudi Arabia and spread its tentacles to Bahrain in 2002.

President Sami Al-Saif has vast experience in the field of frozen seafood packing, storage and distribution in domestic as well as international markets. He believes in integrating business with society. He is passionate about the seafood business and believes fish is the healthiest and safest protein compared to meat proteins. Seafood products such as fish, prawns, crabs, squid

and salmon are packed with vitamins, minerals and contain Omega-3 – a key fatty acid known to help with heart health.

Due to the scarcity of fresh seafood, he anticipated a change in consumer preference from fresh to frozen fish and was determined to set up a production and distribution unit to meet year-round demand for frozen seafood. The company now supports approximately 500 fishermen in Bahrain and employs more than 300 staff including the required number of Bahrainis.

Its state-of-the-art processing unit is designed to meet both national and USFDA quality requirements and Shell exports to the USA, Japan and Korea and imports from all over the world, with seafood distributed through many channels including Modern Trade and plans to expand across the GCC with a variety of valueadded products.

Sami Al-Saif

The qualified, professional and trained team controls the process to HACCP and ISO 90012008 quality standards and Mr Sami Al-Saif says: “We at Shell Fisheries are dedicated to give products of international standards with intrinsic quality supported by prompt delivery schedules to the complete satisfaction of our customers.”

Call 17 786-110.

Cook with Love, Eat with Passion SHELL FISHERIES COMPANY w.l.l.

Processor, exPorter, ImPorter, wholesale & retaIl of frozen fIsh

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P.o.Box 32006, Isa town, factory 5, BuIldIng 815, road 228, Block 702, salmaBad, kIngdom of BahraIn tel: +973 177786110 fax: +973 17786840, emaIl: Info@shell-fIsherIes.com, weB: www.shell-fIsherIes.com sales Branches: ksa Dammam +966 138581998 • RiyaDh +966 118108568 • JeDDah +966 126470395 52 August 2016

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AMBASSADOR STORES

Style on Hand Step out confidently with this statement accessory that has classic, universal appeal.

Seiko’s Premier Collection is a range of timepieces that embody eternity, but employ the latest technology and architectural design. This collection is proof that the classic and the contemporary can co-exist, reiterating the idea that opposites do attract.

Every watch in the Premier Collection plays with restrained hints of tradition and modernity, giving its wearer a stylish charisma. With designs inspired by the world of architecture, the watches exude a timeless grace.

No matter what your taste and personal style, Seiko’s Premier Collection does not compromise on looks or durability. It caters to discerning customers who are constantly on the look out for a perfect match of superior design and lasting quality. The overall look of the latest selection stays loyal to its iconic predecessors, but elegant additions like the large calendar window in the Kinetic Perpetual series and the inclusion of the heart-shaped dial opening in the mechanical models are instrumental in enhancing the structural design and three-dimensional characteristic of the Premier dials.

Among the wide variety of calibres that are available in the Premier Collection, the new range of kinetic watches takes centre stage, including the remarkable Kinetic Perpetual, a calibre unique to Seiko. It retains the correct time and date for up to four years when not worn, without ever requiring a change of battery.

Call 17 225-513.

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August 2016 53

india independence

Incredible

Jama Masjid

India Whether you crave action and adventure or simply want to relax in lush natural beauty, India is the place to be.

Jaipur

New Delhi The contrast between Old and New Delhi is immense, and it’s recommend to spend time exploring both. Popular attractions include the city’s most famous monument, the Red Fort, which stands as a reminder of the Mughal emperors who ruled India. Jama Masjid is another marvelous treasure of the Old City and is the largest mosque in India. If you feel in need of some relaxation, just head to one of Delhi’s flourishing landscaped gardens.

Amritsar The Harmandir Sahib, better known as the Golden Temple, is the main tourist attraction in Amritsar. Construction was begun by Guru Ram Das Ji in the 16th century and, in the 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh decided to cover the upper floors of the temple with gold.

Jaipur A tremendous showcase of Rajasthani architecture, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan is popularly known as the ‘Pink City’. Jaipur was chosen by Maharaja Jai Singh II as his capital and he worked with Bengali architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya to complete Jaipur in less than eight years. The 18th century Jantar Mantar is the largest and best preserved of five observatories built during his reign. Other must-see destinations within the city include the City Palace Complex, with its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.

Fun fact – the son of the last maharaja and his family still reside in a wing of the palace.

Varanasi Varanasi is considered the holiest city in India and thousands of Hindu pilgrims tour its temples and bathe in the Ganges. Take a boat ride on the river at dawn to see scores of people enter the water to purify themselves before the rising sun. Providing the backdrop is a sensational selection of temples and ancient buildings – several of them standing slanted because their foundations have been eroded by flood waters. There are 2,000 temples and shrines in Varanasi with Vishvanatha and the Durga Temple being two of the most popular.

Jaisalmer

b

Sahi Harmandir

54 August 2016

_Durga Temple

Jaisalmer The medieval walled sandstone town of Jaisalmer is exotic, remote and beautiful. Set deep in the heart of the Thar Desert, the old fort city boasts ancient streets and alleyways that preserve a traditional way of life. Entry is through a series of huge gates leading to a long courtyard which has a tangle of alleyways and streets lined with little shops, Jain temples and the old palace of the former ruler. As if that’s not exciting enough, camel safaris in the surrounding desert are a popular activity. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Indian Bites

Musical Moments

Summer Safety Seminar The Indian Community Relief Fund (ICRF) coordinated a seminar entitled Towards a Healthy and Safe Summer which was organised by the Ministry of Labour & Social Development in collaboration with a number of foreign embassies. It was part of an awareness campaign carried out by the Ministry with regard to the ban of noont-time working during the hottest months.

A workshop explained the ban and also addressed the issues of human rights, the reduction of workplace accidents and diseases during the summer and the importance of the deployment of occupational safety and health at various work sites.

There were a number of presentations including information on the effects of sunstroke and methods of prevention, in addition to instruction on the appropriate technical solutions to reduce the temperature and humidity at operational venues In parallel with the seminar a medical camp was also held which was attended by more than 400 workers.

Kerala Catholic Association inaugurated its new Music Club in a colourful function with 30 singers performing melodies continuously for 75 minutes during a programme named DilSe. The traditonal melodies created a magical romantic mood enjoyed by an audience of around 200 people.

“This initiative is the first step of bringing the musical expat talents in Bahrain together at one stage. We are planning for a big musical melody night which would bring down 50 music talents together in KCA,” says association president K P Jose.

The event was coordinated by Varghese Joseph who was responsible for selecting the melodies and recording the tracks and music. He says: “Bringing 30 singers to one state was not an easy task.” But the performance was well received and members said they are looking forward to the next one.

Donation Drive

Around 150 people, including temple devotees, attended a blood donation camp organised by the Thattai (Bhatia) Hindu Community (Hindu Temple) at THMC Auditorium in Manama.

Donation camps have been held four times a year for more than 30 years and the latest edition was deemed to be a great success with supplies being donated across the island. www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2016 55

bystander

IFTARS & GHABGAS

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain, Sovereign Art Foundation and the Royal Charity Organization held a charity Iftar at the Four Season’s Ramadan tent.

Delmon International Hotel held a Ramadan Ghabga at its Ramadan tent

Porsche Club Bahrain held a Ramadan Ghabga at Al Areen Palace & Spa.

The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) held a Ramadan Ghabga at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.

City Centre Bahrain held a Ramadan Ghabga at the Baharat Restarant in Le Meridien Hotel.

City Centre Bahrain held a Ramadan Ghabga at the Baharat Restarant in Le Meridien Hotel.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain held a media ghabga at its Al Khayma Ramadan tent.

The Social Media Club celebrated Social Media Day during its Ramadan Ghabga at the Capital Club Bahrain.

InterContinental Regency Hotel held a garden Ghabga at its Al Thurraya ballroom.

Joz Group held an Iftar party at Taya restaurant, Seef Mall.

Sabih Khan Iftar Mohammed Ozeir Sabih Khan hosted a Ramadan Iftar for family and friends at Salt n’ Pepper restaurant.

Sabih Uddin Khan family

56 August 2016

Hussain & Faisal

Asif & Mohammed

Mohammed Abdulla & Abdulla

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backtoschool

Get Set, Go!

BEHNAZ SANJANA Carefree days, movie nights, fast food for dinner and relaxed curfew times are numbered. It’s time to make your checklists and start preparing for the new term before the school bell rings.

The summer provides a welcome break for kids and parents from the daily grind. While children enjoy time off from homework, parents get some respite from all the chauffeuring to and from school and extracurricular activities and, of course, all the constant organising that goes with it!

But, truth be told, parents and (some) youngsters do look forward to the reopening of school; parents may have long tired of playing referee between siblings and kids welcome the excitement of a new school term and supplies.

Luckily, Bahrain has a number of outlets offering products and services to make the transition from vacation to continuing with education smooth and easy.

The Extra Edge: Most schools teach a foreign language as part of the curriculum; French being one of the most common. If you want your child to have an advantage over others, there is no better place than Alliance Française in Bahrain to master the language.

French is ranked the third most useful language for

Hush Puppies Boys

58 August 2016

business in the world and is an official language of many international institutions, like the United Nations. Alliance Française holds courses for adults and children taught by qualified teachers, which can open up doors to better career prospects, travel and higher education.

School Supplies: When it comes to supplies, Centrepoint has you covered with your back-toschool shopping needs, all under one roof and at affordable prices.

Mothercare’s selection of merchandise is what children’s dreams are made of. Insulated backpacks, stainless steel and tritan bottles, lunch boxes as well as fun-shaped erasers, 3D pencil boxes, and colourful gel pens and markers are imprinted with popular kids’ characters.

Splash at Centrepoint also offers backpacks, pouches, pencil cases, iPad bags, headphones, caps, sling and canvas bags for cool teens.

If you are worried about the weight of the backpack

Hush Puppies Girls

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Centrepoint

that your child lugs around, MAX, one of the largest value fashion brands in the region, has launched a spine pressure-free school bag for kids. It is available in a variety of cool designs for both boys and girls, besides other school essentials. Children can enjoy a series of activities including face painting, competitions and games during weekends between August 7 and 27 at MAX. Uniforms: Comfort is of great importance when it comes to footwear for growing feet. The Hush Puppies kids’ line offers superior comfort for those on the move. Crafted with unique technology and innovation, shoes from this brand prove to be the perfect fit for all-day snugness and breathability.

Centrepoint’s Shoe Mart offers a great range of uniform and sports shoes. Combo packs from Puma and Kangaroos, comprising shoes, socks and bags, are priced very competitively. All brands available at Shoemart are known for their style and durability.

Stores like House of Uniforms, Marks and Spencer and Lulu Hypermarket offer school uniform staples such as shirts, trousers, pinafores and socks.

Art and Craft: Things-To-Do promotes the ‘art and craft’ culture for all ages by providing quality raw materials to fuel hobbies ranging from pottery to calligraphy, needlework and creative art activities. The store has thousands of top-quality brands at reasonable prices and its staff is qualified to offer clients advice on the right products needed.

The store is currently hosting its annual sale up to September 17. The outlet in Riffa (Art Plus) runs art courses by professional teachers qualified from the UK for students interested to learn details on fine art techniques. The shop also has an online ordering system and products can be viewed on its website.

Stationary: Hobbies Stationary in West Riffa aims to help students, teachers and parents easily obtain items that www.bahrainthismonth.com

Top Tips to be School Ready • Gently ease into the school day routine two weeks before school starts.

• If it’s a new school, take your child around the campus to familiarise them with classrooms and pick-up points.

• For kindergarteners, talk to them about the concept of school in a positive way to lessen the severity of possible first-day meltdowns.

• Set aside time for reading and creative writing; it gets kids into school mode easily after a long break.

• Set rules for homework and time for recreation beforehand to ensure a smooth school year • Designate a place for school items and homework to encourage kids to be organised.

• Plan school lunches and snacks for the week ahead and shop for ingredients well in advance.

• Jointly discuss breakfast ideas to avoid morning tantrums.

• Get ready two nights before – iron uniforms, label books and keep badges handy.

• Keep a camera ready for capturing first-day memories, don’t forget to breathe and smile! aid learning, from pre-school to graduation.

Conceptualised by a former teacher, the outlet offers products for children with special needs as well.

Besides top quality stationary items, Hobbies Stationary also offers resources for teachers, flash cards, puzzles, stickers and reading books for children. It also designs and sells its own products to Arabic teachers and students and there are great deals and bundle offers on stationary items.

Also check out supermarkets and stores such as Jashanmal and WH Smith, which often have great money-saving, new-term offers.

August 2016 59

backtoschool

CENTREPOINT

Cool for School The region’s largest family fashion retailer has just launched its back-to-school collection which has everything to keep kids on trend in the classroom.

From water bottles and stylishly revamped backpacks with exciting new shapes to pencil pouches, stationery items and funky footwear in an array of attractive designs and at affordable prices, Centrepoint has all your back-to-school shopping needs covered under one roof. Kids will even be lining up to do homework and chores to get their hands on the coveted character collections.

Mothercare introduces a selection that’s every child’s dream, featuring popular characters and film themes, such as Batman V Superman, Minions, Frozen and Marie the Cat. The entire showcase features the widest range of licensed character merchandise with a huge selection for both boys and girls including insulated backpacks, stainless steel bottles, tritan bottles and spacious lunch boxes for your child’s special meal. Stationery items include fun-shaped erasers, 3D hard-case pencil boxes, and colourful gel pens and markers.

For football fans, this year’s collection features an exciting selection from Real Madrid, FC Barcelona and Manchester City amongst others and, for little girls, Mothercare’s Disney Princess collection is always a hit along with products from Hello Kitty, Sofia the First and more.

Backpacks have also been revamped this season with four exciting new shapes that make going to school comfortable and stylish.

Call Centrepoint Bahrain City Centre 17 560-600, Oasis East Riffa 17 664-640, Oasis Muharraq 17 165-666, Mothercare Marina Mall 17 272-780.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE BAHRAIN

Exploring A New Culture The French language specialists have been spreading the joy of learning another lingo in Bahrain since 1969.

Alliance Française Bahrain is part of a global network of 813 not-forprofit associations in over 133 countries around the world, teaching the French language and culture to over 540,000 students worldwide. With a mission to teach French around the world, Alliance Française’s also aims to promote the traditions of Francophone countries and encourage cultural diversity. It offers private tuition and small-group classes for children and adults, where courses are delivered by qualified teachers.

You are never too young or old to start learning French. It all begins with bonjour! Classes are offered for adults and children as young as five years old.

General courses are perfect for complete beginners. Under the guidance of qualified tutors, students learn the French alphabet, numbers, common greetings and phrases. Sessions are held in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and students work together to build their confidence in speaking the language fluently.

Besides learning a new language, these courses allow students to meet like-minded individuals and can open up a whole new world of possibilities for them; be it travel, international job opportunities or further education.

New courses at Alliance Française start in September, and will

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implement advanced learning technologies to study French; such as using an iPad and other digital tools. Students who have completed the DELF (Diploma in French Language Studies) A1 level will be able to practice the language by designing short movies, slow motion films and comics; a fun and interactive way to improve learning.

Call 17 683-295.

August 2016 61

backtoschool

Dylann Ralf

Farida Varun

HUSH PUPPIES

Hello, Happy Feet!

The kids’ line of this legendary American footwear brand is inspired by a light-hearted and playful attitude. And the shoes, which deliver quality and durability, are built with your little ones in mind.

62 August 2016

When it comes to children’s footwear, inflexible, poorly shaped shoes are potentially harmful – they restrict the natural movement and development of little feet. While we give top priority to our kids’ wellbeing, it is also imperative to spare a thought for their developing feet, considering that shoes can have a large influence on natural gait.

Hush Puppies is a global brand that parents can trust to correctly care for feet. As children spend a significant number of hours at school, it is important that they do so in footwear that is comfortable and just the right fit.

At Hush Puppies, it is believed that nothing should come between you and comfort. The brand’s history is rooted in innovation and it has developed several patented technologies to create footwear that is extremely comfortable, lightweight and worry-free.

But who said school shoes need to be boring? This brand has a wide range of styles to choose from, for boys and girls. No matter what your young one fancies, a pair of Hush Puppies is everything you would expect it to be: sturdy, smart, durable and great value, because they last for so long.

‘Ralf’ for boys is a classic black leather shoe, with simple and versatile styling. The easy, double-strap Velcro fastening makes it simple to slip on and off for active youngsters.

The ‘Varun’ features a classic, derby-style lace-up

construction, genuine leather upper and simple fastening for a secure fit. The ‘Kyrann’ is a black leather loafer with a classic look and twin elasticised gussets for easy foot entry. Both these styles feature padded collars for added comfort with every step.

In keeping with the tastes of today’s young ladies, Hush Puppies has a number of pretty styles for girls to choose from. The super sleek ‘Laney’, is characterised by an adjustable riptape strap in a classic Mary Jane silhouette. A popular ballet slipper shape, the ‘Tya’ has been updated for the new season with a delicate bow detailing, and glossy leather piping provides an elegant appearance.

‘Farida’ is a typical Mary Jane profile with toecap detailing and bow embellishment. Classic black leather is teamed with a durable rubber outsole, while the Velcro fastening and memory foam foot bed are practical additions. The ‘Dylann’ features a T-bar silhouette in traditional black, genuine leather and a no-fuss Velcro closure. Classic stitch down construction adds authenticity, while a hardwearing, textured rubber sole and memory foam footbed is ideal for girls on the go.

Each pair of Hush Puppies is crafted with the best smooth leather uppers ideal for active kids for all day comfort and breathability. Hush Puppies shoes are also available in all Shoe Citi stores in the region.

Call 17 253-032. www.bahrainthismonth.com

SUVfeature

Sensational SUVs From big, bulky beasts to classy and compact crossovers, the SUV segment in the Kingdom is growing from strength to strength.

Bahrain This Month has compiled a definitive list of the latest models and special offers on everything with four-wheel drive!

BMW X6

Sports cars undoubtedly have their place in every petrolhead’s heart, but when it comes to capability and raw, rugged power, there is no substitute for a 4x4.

Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover Jaguar recently made its debut in the SUV segment with the new F-PACE, a performance SUV that combines driving pleasure with efficiency. Technologically advanced to the core, this model keeps you safe, connected and entertained, its makers say. The F-PACE is available at Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover from BD21,995 with five-year service, warranty, roadside assistance and free registration.

Range Rover is an iconic brand that needs no introduction. From the most demanding and inhospitable terrains to negotiating rush-hour city traffic, Range Rover delivers a relaxed, intuitive and rewarding drive. It is available at Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover from BD6,999 deposit, BD699 x 36 months, all service, maintenance, tyre replacement, replacement vehicle and insurance and registration included.

Meanwhile, the Range Rover Sport is available from BD5,999 deposit and BD599 x 36 months with the same package.

BMW This German marque has a number of Sports Activity Vehicles and SUVs to choose from. The X1, X3, X4, X5 and X6 all offer an impressive www.bahrainthismonth.com

Duster

combination of dynamics, suitability for everyday use and efficiency.

Al Haddad Motors: Mercedes-Benz The new GLS is a sophisticated model that cements its reputation as the ‘S-Class among SUVs’. This seven-seater boasts ample space and combines luxury with impressive levels of comfort, agile dynamics and also best-inclass safety.

A combination of advanced four-cylinder engines and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive ensures a powerful, dynamic driving experience – whatever the terrain.

Meanwhile, imposing proportions and forceful, confident styling make the new GLE a

striking addition to the Mercedes-Benz lineup.

The G-Class is an SUV with character by the bucket load. It features the latest technical advances and innovations, yet it’s built for offroad adventure. Its sturdy ladder frame and galvanised steel body are hand-welded. It takes more than 40 hours to craft each G-Class almost entirely by hand.

Behbehani Brothers: Audi Centre Bahrain Audi offers a number of SUVs in its Q range, each with a distinct look and personality. The Q7 is a seven-seat luxury SUV that has been given a complete overhaul – the second generation Q7 is lighter and more efficient than its predecessor with a host of August 2016 65

suvfeature technological advancements. The Q3 is the second-smallest member of the Q range of premium SUVs. It’s more conventionally styled than its smaller Q2 sibling and fits into the range below the Q5, to which it’s far closer in style. Q3 starts from BD13,995 and the Q7 starts from BD22,995.

Behbehani Brothers: Volkswagen Bahrain The showroom in Sitra is offering special deals on its dynamic duo of SUVs – the Volkswagen Tiguan and Touareg. The promotion includes a three-year free service package, three-year roadside assist, five years’ unlimited mileage warranty and 12 years’ rust protection.

Ahmed Al Zayani & Sons Jeep is a brand with an illustrious history that spans decades. Fittingly, the marque’s diamond anniversary is celebrated with a dazzling array of vehicles that continue to set the standard for SUVs. Ahmed Al Zayani & Sons, an authorised dealer for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram, is offering special deals on the range, including; Jeep Renegade for BD8,888, Cherokee for BD9,999, Wrangler for BD10,555, Compass for BD7,777 and Dodge Ram for BD13,333.

Motorcity Motorcity has such a wide range of vehicles it can be hard to know where to start. With the SUV segment showing positive growth year after year, Motorcity has a wide range of SUVs this year targeted to different types of buyers.

Chery, Ssangyong, Citroen, Volvo and BAIC are just some of the models available. The Chery Tiggo 3 starts from BD49 per month with a down payment of 30 per cent and three months deferred payment. This includes a five-year warranty, roadside assist and rust protection.

The company recently revealed the new SsangYong XLV, an SUV with plenty of boot space making it practical for family use.

66 August 2016

Tiguan

Following rapid growth in the compact SUV market, SsangYong responded in 2015 by launching Tivoli, its first compact SUV, which became the company’s most successful new model. Sharing the same platform with the Tivoli, the XLV features a lengthened body with a huge 720 cubic litres of space, while the larger cabin provides space for five tall adults with excellent leg, shoulder and head room.

Bin Hindi Motors Kia Carnival, Sorento and Sportage are among the most popular SUVs available, with class in abundance. Sorento is Kia’s most popular fullsized SUV and aims to impress with its size, power and handling. The Carnival is a full-sized MPV with plenty of space to fit eight adults.

This model is ideal for large families but is versatile enough to be used as your daily ride to and from work. Innovative features include easy-clean seats with patented technology.

Y.K. Almoayyed and Sons: Renault The Renault Duster is a practical SUV that offers great value for money. It starts at BD4,995 and is available for BD74 month – subject to terms, conditions and bank approvals. The new model boasts a revised front exterior design,

combined with enhanced interior comfort and practicality. In addition, a range of advanced technological features have been included.

Y.K. Almoayyed and Sons: Nissan Bahrain Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons has been the authorised Nissan dealer in Bahrain and offers an impressive array of SUVs. Nissan has three showrooms in Bahrain, the main one is located in Sitra and the other two at Arad and Exhibition Road.

The marque’s most popular SUV models include the Patrol, Pathfinder, X-Trail and Armada. There are plans to launch the new Patrol V6, GTR later this year.

Mohammed Jalal & Sons Japanese marque Suzuki revealed the 2016 Vitara. The new look vehicle features an aggressive front, with two LED headlights dissected with a thin chrome grid and the ‘S’ logo front and centre.

JAC Motors The J6 is a family-friendly MPV. Its safety credentials are top-of-the-line, having achieved a 5-star safety rating. It also boasts impressive fuel economy for its size.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Kia Sportage

A.A. BIN HINDI

Spectacular Surprise!

CHARLIE HOLDING This model is built for urban adventure and is one of the most impressive crossover vehicles on the road today.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Kia’s tagline is ‘the power to surprise’, and, after a day driving the new Sportage, I’d say that is pretty accurate.

This Korean marque has come a long way in recent years and stands its ground firmly among its counterparts across the globe. Thanks to refreshed designs, state-of-the-art on-board technology and an impressive list of optional driving assistance systems, Kia is flexing its muscle in the compact SUV segment.

The completely redesigned Sportage boasts a striking grille, elegant side contours, prominent wheel arches, a coupe-like roof and an extended wheelbase – in short, it makes an immediate impression.

Inside, all the important components are driverfocused, such as the angled console, displays and buttons. And, as an added bonus, it’s practical too!

With its expanded cargo space, the Sportage has ample capacity for everything you want to take on your travels. Meanwhile, smart compartments and a wide leather dash have been added to provide even more storage space.

So, how does it handle? Honestly, like a much smaller vehicle. Nimble handling and impressive power converge with surprising fuel-efficiency in both of the different four-cylinder engines available.

This is an SUV that lives up to its name. The tiptronic gearbox allows you to shift from manual to automatic instantaneously and there are paddle shifters behind the driving wheel to ensure you needn’t take your hands off.

Despite its comparable size, the Sportage corners

remarkably well. I took some sharp turns smoothly and confidently, assured that the all-wheel drive vehicle was up to the task.

There are a number of driving modes, including eco, normal and, of course, sport. Each tailors the drive to your requirements and changes the feel of the vehicle immensely. I found sport mode worked best on the highway, and, although this does increase fuel consumption, the eco mode is just a flick of the switch away.

The available driver-assistance technology in the new Sportage means you’ll be at your best when you’re at the wheel. The model I drove had parking sensors and (perhaps the most useful feature in any car) blind-spot detection to reveal what you can’t see.

With summer officially here, getting into your vehicle around midday can be akin to walking into an oven. Since I’ve always considered myself more a medium-rare than well done, the frosty A/C on board was a welcome reprieve. And, as an added bonus, the model I drove had ventilated seats – I cannot stress enough how fantastic that feels on a hot day.

If you’re feeling brave or pale, the Sportage has a spectacular panoramic sunroof that gives the interior a bright and airy ambience.

Overall, I genuinely was surprised by how much I enjoyed my drive and I’m sure you will be too.

Call the Khamis showroom on 17 408-800.

August 2016 67

SUVfeature AL HADDAD MOTORS

Roadshow Rolls into Town

A special weekend roadshow will give motoring enthusiasts the opportunity to test drive a sophisticated SUV. Al Haddad Motors will present the GLS roadshow in Seef Mall Muharraq from August 11-13. The weekend event will give eligible drivers the opportunity to test drive the S-Class of SUVs, the luxurious Mercedes-Benz GLS. “This is an exciting opportunity for Al Haddad Motors and Mercedes-Benz to engage with the audience in Bahrain by having them test drive the new Mercedes-Benz GLS,” says general manager of Al Haddad Motors, Graeme Newport. “Our last event at Seef Mall Muharraq, the A-45 simulator racing competition, was a great success and we’re thrilled to have the Mercedes-Benz GLS roadshow there as well.”

Registered guests will have their emotions triggered while experiencing high-end performance like no other, the company says.

Thanks to its luxurious interior and vibrant design, this model has already drawn praise

Football Screening HE Alfred Simms-Protz & Perwin

Stefan, Sebastian & Alini

Mercedes-Benz GLS

from motoring enthusiasts. Being one of the marque’s larger SUVs, the GLS has two-rows of seats with a foldable third row, which can seat up to seven passengers – offering even greater versatility. All GLS models are equipped with an all-wheel drive system and a nine-speed automatic transmission, boasting 455bhp.

The GLS promises all-round safety, including crosswind assist, collisionprevention assist, and brake assist and the

Call 17 785-454.

HE Alfred Simms-Protz, German Ambassador, held a football dinner at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel.

Jihan & HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Bernd & Michael

Sarina & Karl-Heinz

HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran, HE Alfred Simms-Protz, Georges, George & HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre

68 August 2016

exciting feature ‘Dynamic Select’, which will let the driver select different driving modes depending on relative terrains.

The roadshow, which will take place across the region, will give the local audience an opportunity to test drive the exciting new model.

Registration to test drive the GLS will be on the spot throughout the weekend.

Borja & Victor

Eric, Martin & Birgit

Philip & Steffen

Anne, Perwin & Jihan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Road to Sucess.

This August, the GLS road show is coming to town.Meet our team, Test drive the GLS, experience what the amazing SUV and experience what the Mercedes-Benz GLS is all about and alot more.

Come visit us at Seef Mall Muharraq from 11th August to 13th August.

Dont miss it, See you there!!

Al Haddad Motors, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel: (+973) 17785454 marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com, www.bahrain.mercedesbenzme.com

SUVfeature

BMW X5

EURO MOTORS

Setting the Benchmark

This mid-sized SAV sets the standard for its class thanks to it its impressive combination of looks, capability and tech features.

70 August 2016

The BMW X5 has come a long way since its inception in 1999 and it continues to build on its impressive legacy. It is one of the marque’s bestselling models and accounts for almost a third of all BMWs sold globally.

So, what makes it so impressive? In a word – innovation. Now in its third generation, the BMW X5 is available with a choice of new suspension packages, including Adaptive Suspension Comfort, Dynamic, Professional and Adaptive M Suspension, all of which provide enhanced ride comfort.

The design of the new BMW X5 combines the X hallmark characteristics with the power, presence and sportiness of classic BMW models. Features include an even more expressive front-end look with twin circular headlights extending into the new broad-set kidney grille, an elegantly stretched silhouette, new distinctive rear and a new sparkling brown colour option.

Inside the redesigned exterior, this model boasts a selection of high quality leather and trims, atmospheric lighting options and increased spaciousness. In addition, an optional third row of seats will turn the new BMW X5 into a sevenseater. The outer seats in the second row can be

tilted towards the front, making it easy to access the two additional seats.

Customers keen to personalise their vehicle can order the new BMW X5 with Pure Experience and Pure Excellence design packages, in addition to the M Sport package. The exterior and interior content of these two design packages can be ordered separately, and can be combined with other standard equipment or the M Sport package.

The BMW X5 xDrive35i engine features TwinPower turbo technology with twin scroll turbocharger, direct injection system, fully variable valve control and double vanos variable camshaft timing. This delivers 306bhp to the X5’s wheels and propels the vehicle from 0-100kmph in 6.5 seconds.

Additionally, Efficient Dynamics features ensure this model is faster than ever. The Driving Experience Control switch is fitted as standard with Comfort, Dynamic and Professional adaptive suspension packages. Also available is Adaptive M suspension, which can be specified to enhance the car’s sporty handling properties and ride comfort.

Call 17 750-750. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Store Opening

Jawad Business Group opened a new kids brand retail outlet, allo&lugh, at Seef Mall.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Jin & Emily

Melissa Jawad, Kareem Jawad & Abbas

Tommy & Raneen Management and staff at the launch

Haseen & Vinod

Jyothi & Nebu

Maria & Ashwathi

Suhail & Prijoe

Nigel & Jin

* Free Registration & Insurance * 5 Years Warranty Unlimited km * 3 Years Road Side Assistance

BD.

BD.

7900

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BD.

4600

BD.

4850

6800

BD.

4995

August 2016 71

bystander

& Daffy launched their new album 9arat Album Launch Flipperachi at Malja, Amwaj Islands.

Flipperachi & Daffy

Sara, Leena & Yasmeen

Maserati Owners Club

The Maserati Owners Club held its inauguration ceremony at Al Areen Palace & Spa. The cake-cutting ceremony Hassan, Rama, Sha, John & Shafir

Ameen, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, Rifat, HE Alberto Vecchi & HE Alfred Simms-Protz

Ibrahim Assaf & Nawaf

Perwin, Benedicta & Maya

Nader & Ann

Mahmood & Mohammed

Award Ceremony

Zainab & Eman

Abdulla

Imran, Apple, Sara & Matt

Ullas

Momen

Bedar, Ahmed, Imran & Mahmood

The British School of Bahrain held its annual Senior School Prize Giving Awards Ceremony at its campus in Hamala.

The awarding ceremony

72 August 2016

Noor & Naya

Lina & Sarah

Arees & Sachi

Alya & Laura

Oskar & Sarah

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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youtube.com/user/redhousemarketing

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FROM A SINGLE BRICK IN 1991...

WE HAVE GROWN INTO A HOUSE

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

MOTORING

A TRULY TERRIFIC TURRBO CHARLIE HOLDING This iconic model has been revamped for success and looks set to impress with its sensational selection of upgrades both inside and out.

T

he Porsche 911 Carrera S generally needs no introduction, but if you’re in the market for a new mean machine, you definitely need to check out the updates made to the 2017 model.

Illogical as it sounds, Porsche is a marque with a future that lies in its past. This is because the iconic designs of the past are being tweaked to meet modern demands, offering the very best of both.

The 911 is an iconic model and, although it is fresher, sleeker, considerably lighter and boasts a number of components that are either new or have been fundamentally revised, it’s still instantly recognisable.

The exterior, for example, is a largely familiar shape but the beauty lies in the subtle touches.

The 911 has a new lighting design and characteristic four-spot LED daytime running lights, which have been incorporated into the Bi-Xenon main headlights, and direction indicators are even slimmer.

However, the most impressive thing is that fashion follows function. The front has been www.bahrainthismonth.com

reshaped for an even sportier look with larger air intakes that allow for better aerodynamics and cooling performance.

The cabin exudes an air of practicality and luxury thanks to the smooth leather surfaces and easy-to-use touch-screen control panel, which can be used to control practically everything inside the car from satellite navigation to radio and media functions.

This is a car that is guaranteed to turn heads as you drive. If, however, for any reason you feel like you’re not getting the attention you deserve, simply shift into sport mode and the throttle response sharpens, which turns the gentle purr of the engine into an almighty roar.

Under the bonnet is a six cylinder, three-litre engine with two variants – 370bhp and 420bhp.

Thanks to their turbocharged design, they generate more power – with reduced displacement and lower fuel consumption. And for the purists, relax; there is practically no turbo lag.

Simply tap the accelerator and you’re off the mark faster than you can say Jack Robinson,

ALSO THIS MONTH: 76 HYBRID AND ELECTRIC MODELS LAUNCHED

with enough force to fling you back into your seat. Performance figures say it makes the trip from 0-100kmph in just 3.9 seconds, but it felt faster than that to me.

Since the 911 is a real ‘driver’s car’, there is also a sport-plus mode. Once selected, the steering gets stiffer and gear changes become manual, which enables you to utilise the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters or, if you’re a traditionalist, the gear stick.

I loved this mode because it made me feel more connected to the car and more in control of the drive, which is a handy thing when you’re pushing to the speed limit on an open stretch of highway.

If you heard a loud roar and saw a back blur zooming past you on the Seef Highway last week, chances are it was me. It’s so responsive I began to wonder why all cars are not built like this. Even when cornering at speed, all you need to do is gently caress the wheel and be confident it will steer in the direction you are aiming at.

Call Porsche Centre Bahrain on 17 459-911.

August 2016 75

motoring FIRST MOTORS

Hybrid and Electric Models Launched This leading automaker has revealed a range of alternative-fuel cars in a bid to promote eco-friendly driving.

Hyundai has unveiled its IONIQ range – a selection of vehicles that represents the marque’s flexible approach to moving its products towards zero-emissions technology.

With demand expected to exceed the initial supply, Hyundai hopes to begin shipments to the GCC by the end of 2016, starting with hybrid and electric versions.

Instead of offering just one power source, the Korean automaker is giving buyers a choice of three proven technologies – the IONIQ Hybrid, IONIQ Plug-in and IONIQ Electric models – each of which boasts low emissions and a sporty performance.

“There is a growing demand for cars that can minimise our environmental impact and most of us within the industry are aware that electric power is the future,” says Mike Song, Hyundai’s head of operations for Africa and

76 August 2016

the Middle East.

“For example, range anxiety with electric cars remains an issue for some buyers, particularly those who drive long distances in fairly remote areas. By offering options to fit every circumstance, IONIQ will play an essential role in making electric power mainstream, offering a practical stepping stone towards ever-more advanced technology in the next few years.”

Hyundai expects its hybrid models will account for the bulk of sales when the car arrives in the GCC. The full hybrid version features a 1.6-litre direct injection petrol engine with a 32kW electric motor – offering a combined 103.6kW of power and 265Nm of torque. It will reach a top speed of 185kmph. The IONIQ Electric has less power at 88kW, but more torque at 295Nm, and an estimated maximum range of around 250km on a full charge.

Both cars feature the latest technologies for infotainment, connectivity and comfort as well as some of the industry’s most advanced safety and driver assistance systems. These include

Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist System, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Smart Cruise Control, as well as seven airbags and a highly rigid body structure to protect occupants in the event of an accident.

Although the IONIQ is Hyundai’s first purposebuilt alternative-fuel car, the brand already has a strong track record in looking beyond fossil fuels.

Hybrid versions of the Sonata mid-sized sedan have been on sale in selected markets since 2011, while the Tucson Fuel Cell is the world’s first mass-production hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.

Coinciding with the first viewing of the preproduction IONIQ at the Geneva Motor Show in March, Hyundai announced that the new models would be followed by Project IONIQ – a comprehensive research and development programme, bringing together all of the company’s technical expertise to define the future of sustainable mobility.

Call 17 121-121.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Where fun and family come together

motoringnews&launches

All-Terrain Vehicle of the Future This luxury marque has demonstrated a range of innovative research technologies that would allow a future autonomous car to drive itself over any surface or terrain.

Jaguar Land Rover’s multi-million pound Autonomous All-Terrain research project aims to make the self-driving car viable in all environments and weather conditions.

Tony Harper, head of research, Jaguar Land Rover, says: “Our all-terrain autonomy research isn’t just about the car driving itself on a motorway or in extreme off-road situations. It’s about helping people make their way safely through any terrain or situation.

“We don’t want to limit future highly automated and fully autonomous technologies to tarmac. When the driver turns off the road, we want this support and assistance to continue. In the future, if you enjoy the benefits of autonomous lane keeping on a motorway at the start of your journey, we want to ensure you can use this all the way to your destination, even if this is via a rough track or gravel road.

“So, whether it’s a road under

construction with cones and a contraflow, a snow-covered road in the mountains or a muddy forest track, this advanced capability would be available to both the driver and the autonomous car, with the driver able to let the car take control if they were unsure how best to tackle an obstacle or hazard ahead. We are already world-leaders in all-terrain technologies: these research projects will extend that lead still further.”

Surface identification and 3D path sensing research combines camera, ultrasonic, radar and LIDAR sensors to give the car a 360-degree view of the world around it, with sensors so advanced that the car could determine surface characteristics, down to the width of a tyre, even in rain and falling snow, to plan its route.

Watch this space for updates!

First Exhibition of the Cutaway Car in the Region Euro Motors, the distributor for luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar in Bahrain, announced a showcase of the cutaway version of its new F-PACE. The cutaway car will allow customers, both existing and potential, to catch a glimpse of what lies beneath the surface and powers the outstanding capabilities of the stunning vehicle.

The first of its kind exhibition in the region will run until August 3 and will take place on the ground floor of the Jaguar Land Rover Showroom in Sitra.

Half the model will be complete and encased with its exterior in its entirety whilst the other half will be stripped bare, down to the engine and chassis, enabling visitors to observe firsthand the pioneering technology that lies at the heart of Jaguar’s latest and most important reveals.

Call 17 460-460.

78 August 2016

New Showroom Opens Soon

Officials recently visited the site of a state-of-the-art car showroom ahead of its launch next month.

Infiniti Bahrain and Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons is set to reveal an exclusive Infiniti showroom in Sitra. The project, which has been in the pipeline for a while, nears fruition and will be launched in September.

Mohammed Almoayyed, director, Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, accompanied Francois Goupil de Bouille, Infiniti vice president, Europe, Middle East and Africa during his visit to the site to check its progress thus far.

Mohammed says: “We’ve always believed that an exclusive brand like Infiniti needs it own space to offer buyers the chance to spend time within the showroom in absolute comfort before they decide which model meets their needs. The showroom itself will reflect the personality of the brand and will be elegant, stylish and spacious. This will further enhance the Infiniti buying experience.”

Ramadan Campaign Winner A lucky winner has been presented with the keys to a brand new vehicle.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the distributor of Toyota and Lexus in the Kingdom, presented Almass Saeed Faraj with the keys to the new Toyota Fortuner, the grand prize of its recently concluded Ramadan service campaign.

The offer gave all customers who had their Toyota or Lexus vehicles serviced from June to July 4 the opportunity to enter the raffle draw. Michael Goode, senior general manager of service at Ebrahim K. Kanoo, and Hussain Haji, operations manager of service, presented the grand prize to Faraj.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE FUTURE OF LUXURY MOBILITY

This iconic marque has revealed a stunning new vehicle that has captured the attention of motoring enthusiasts from across the world.

In a special event at London’s Roundhouse, the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 was presented. The car – codenamed 103EX – is the marque’s first ever pure ‘Vision Vehicle’.

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 presents an intriguing and aesthetically dynamic vision of the future of luxury mobility – a completely personal, effortless and autonomous Rolls-Royce experience, wrapped in a sleek design.

The new model anticipates the demands of the luxury customer of the

future, according to its makers.

Brought to life by Rolls-Royce after months of study and consultation with patrons of the brand, the car represents a new age.

“The grand arrival of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 boldly points to a bright future for our marque where our patrons’ individual demands for complete and authentic personalisation will be met through an exquisite fusion of technology, design and hallmark Rolls-Royce craftsmanship,” says Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

Giles Taylor, director of design, adds: “With the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 we were mindful not to dwell on the past. We wanted to be as innovative as possible and at the same time transcend the design history of the marque”.

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, is only one example of a number of possible personal visions of RollsRoyce of the future, its makers say.

Revamped Fleet Arrives Euro Motors, the distributor for Jaguar Land Rover in Bahrain, announced the renewal of the fleet of Land Rover vehicles currently available at the Land Rover Experience Centre Bahrain (LRE) located at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC).

The 2016 line-up of vehicles will now be available for customers, to offer them the opportunity of experiencing the capabilities of these stunning SUVs. The fleet at the Land Rover Experience Centre includes one Range Rover Sport, two Range Rover Evoques, two Land Rover Discovery Sports and three Land Rover LR4s.

Paul Yates, general manager of Euro Motors, says: “The Land Rover Experience Centre Bahrain has been extremely successful over the past year and a half, delivering over 2,000 experiences to date and raking in rave reviews for both our highly capable vehicles and the fluidity and rugged technicality of the course in itself. Hence, our supply of the latest models of our vehicles is of paramount importance to us.”

Call 17450-000 or email info@bic.com.bh.

Vineet, Adriaan & Sasi Malhotra

Delo Seminar

AJM Kooheji Group held a seminar - The Future of Diesel Engine Oil in a Low Emission Environment - at Elite Resort & Spa Hotel.

Representatives at the seminar

Kaizad, Parinaz & Jawad

Mishal Al Kooheji & Omar Al Kooheji

Dilip Rij, Sanjay & Prasanna Kumar

Faris, Adriaan, Sharif & Jawad

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Len & Vineet

Mehdi

Fawaz

Fakruddin, Yahia & Nowrass

August 2016 79

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

Polar Pen Perfect for those who easily get bored or can’t keep their hands still while at work or school, the Polar Pen is composed of 13 neodymium magnets to attach or detach to your heart’s content. It works great as a pen, a touchscreen stylus or as a plaything.

Available from www. amazon.com.

Big Eye Spy Tank This gadget features a moveable camera and is controllable from an iOS or Android device. The tank creates its own Wi-Fi hotspot allowing you to control it both indoors and out, plus it has a night vision mode so you can carry on driving when it’s dark. The tank will also let you record videos and upload photos via email or various social networks once they have been saved to your device.

Available from www.red5.co.uk.

USB Fridge The USB Fridge is the perfect desk companion for when the heat hits and your drink is getting warm or your chocolate is melting while you try to meet that important deadline! The USB Fridge contains a cold plate that chills within seconds of plugging it in, helping to keep your beverage or snack at a nice cool refreshing temperature. It is a Plug and Play item compatible with PC and Mac – as long as they contain a USB port.

Available from www.thegadgetflow.com.

80 August 2016

Pocket Fishing Rod The compact rod can be carried around in your pocket, but as soon as you catch sight of something darting around in the water, the rod is easily and quickly extended, ready to land your prize catch. It comes with a reel, line, hooks and float, and is easy to assemble, so all you need to provide is the bait. The rod is 20cm for easy mobility and 104cm when extended. It is made of an aluminium alloy and is sturdy enough to land the biggest fish.

Available from www.amazon.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Vortex Robotic Toy Underwater Light Show The Underwater Light Show is a floating colour-changing light show, where you can turn your bath, pool or hot tub into a special, relaxing and welcoming place by simply popping the lights into the water. It plays five different light sequences, so you get to choose whether you go for a relaxing colour phasing or pump it up to disco intensity at the push of a button.

Available from www.red5.co.uk.

A smart and responsive robot that brings fun and creativity for children. Using the Vortex and apps, kids can play different games, learn about robotics, and even create their own. Take Vortex out of the box, pair it to smartphones via Bluetooth, and it is ready to run by tapping the screen and its various commands.

Available from www.amazon.com.

AllBe1 UO Smart Beam Laser Projector You can enjoy your favourite movie or TV show at home with real 720p HD resolution with this projector. It’s the smallest laser projector that gives a bright projection up to 60 lumens.

It can be connected wirelessly or with a wire, and contains its own speaker.

Available from www.thegadgetflow.com.

AllBe1 is an all-in-one personal security guardian that combines a wide variety of devices into one small and smart gadget. It contains a burglar alarm, tracker, alarm button, temperature sensor, smartphone smart lock, motion detector, fitness tracker, UV monitor, and ‘find my phone’ button.

Available from www.amazon.com.

SQUAIR Mobile The first portable air cleaner that combines HEPA and carbon filter with state-of-theart non-thermal plasma technology. It eliminates viruses, bacteria, pollen, dust and harmful gases such as smoke and odours, cleans up to 250 square feet or 25 square metres, and filters 38 cubic feet or one cubic meter per minute with super-silent fans.

Available from www.amazon.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2016 81

music

California – Blink-182 What’s the story?

Twenty-one years and a couple of break-ups since Blink-182 released their debut album Cheshire Cat, the boys are (mostly) back. Now on their seventh album and well into their 40s, Mark Hoppus and Travis Barker are starting over without founding member Tom DeLonge, who they called “disrespectful and ungrateful” during his departure from the band in early 2015.

Blink fans were worried about what would happen after DeLexit, but the lads wasted no time filling Tom’s whiny shoes with another poppunk heavyweight: Matt Skiba of Alkaline Trio.

Worth a listen?

California is a return to form and an admirable maturation of the band’s classic pop-punk sound. Whereas 2003’s self-titled album had its moments, the 2011 follow-up Neighborhoods was an uninspired, stale comeback from a trio that had lost its heart and sense of fun. In the end, they sounded like imitations of younger bands they helped inspire.

With California and Tom’s departure, the latest iteration of the band is free from the drama and riding a creative wave, reinjecting muchneeded vitality and spirit into the catalogue. Fortunately, Skiba is not just a replacement guitarist who provides backing vocals, as he introduces new angles to the long-time Hoppus-Barker relationship

Verdict: A return to form, albeit with something missing. with deeper vocals and a bolder guitar.

Sadly, as difficult as he was to deal with outside the studio, DeLonge’s nasally whine which made the band stand out so much from their peers in the late-90s is sorely missed. It just doesn’t feel like Blink without him but rather a side-project; as refreshing and mature (aside from a few joke tracks) as this new album is. Regardless, those looking for a seductive slice of summer pop-punk won’t find any better than this.

Shorts

Beautiful Broken – Heart On their 16th album, Heart have decided to tread a path well-worn by vintage rockers: revisiting their catalogue. This is an exercise often fraught with peril. That said, while Ann and Nancy Wilson do stumble, they’ve learned from predecessors’ mistakes. Seven of these 10 cuts were previously recorded, but none are considered Heart standards.

Beautiful Broken could have used more up-tempo tracks to balance out the ballads; they would have added dimension to an intriguing album. It’s a mixed bag, but its experimentation works more often than not, while the new songs suggest Heart’s creativity is undiminished.

82 August 2016

Cheetah – Aphex Twin

Wildflower – The Avalanches

This an album of Richard D James’ most stripped-down techno. Nearly everything here sticks to a steady midtempo, and the tracks generally take their time developing, subtly adding new elements rather than excitedly jumping from one point to another. While the songs are basic enough on the surface to be variations on the same themes, there’s enough going on to separate the compositions. It’s a decent listen, but don’t expect to be blown away or hear anything innovative.

The second album from the Australian electronica band features their trademarks: heavy doses of summer beats that seem to be constructed from bubblegum, and samples that are witty and fit together like puzzle pieces.

The Avalanches are masters at creating new melodies out of old records, fresh feelings out of lost snippets of sound; so it’s a shame they are kind of cheating by bringing in a bunch of people to do the heavy lifting for them, with rappers and indie musicians layering their own work on top. www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games review Game: LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens Rating: OOOOO Verdict: A brilliant riot through a galaxy far, far away!

What is it?

The LEGO video game franchise strikes back with a fun-filled, humorous journey based on the latest blockbuster Star Wars film.

Play as Rey, Finn, Poe, BB-8, KyloRen, Han Solo, and the rest of your favourite characters from the movie – all in LEGO form!

The game features exclusive playable content that bridges the story gap between Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi and Star Wars: The Force Awakens, so even fans who have seen the movie will find new narrative chunks to get their teeth into.

Gameplay:

Like the majority of LEGO games, the story is split into levels, each lasting about 30 minutes, and can be played with a friend from start to finish. The co-op experience is where the game shines brightest; it’s great fun cutting enemies into plastic chunks with a lightsaber or blowing their hairpieces off with a blaster!

Outside the levels based on the film, there is a central hub where you can build, collapse and search a huge area to find hidden characters and minikits to use again in levels. In fact, all the side

Final Fantasy XV

Final Fantasy XV is the story of a young king sworn to defend the last crystal in the world from the ‘hectic order’ outside of his kingdom. It’s a fight between ancient and modern technology, and the struggle of one king to protect the old ways. Featuring action-heavy combat, innovative gameplay, and immersive graphics that push the limits of modern hardware, Final Fantasy XV is an awe-inspiring tale that transports audiences into its vivid imagining of a fantasy world based in reality.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

quests take up more of the game than the story levels, and the variety keeps you coming back to find new delights.

Graphics:

There is a stark visual upgrade in comparison to previous LEGO titles.

Vehicles and buildings crumble into thousands of LEGO pieces, while cutscenes put a humorous spin on the film’s more serious events – in vivid detail. The game uses dialogue from the movie and new lines spoken by the actors themselves to embellish the story.

I Am Setsuna

I Am Setsuna is a role-playing video game in which players take control of a party of characters, navigating environments from an angled top-down perspective. Locations such as towns and dungeons are reached by navigating the game’s overworld. In towns, the party can talk with villagers to reveal plot elements, and find treasure chests containing useful items. Various items such as healing potions or means for escaping from battle are sold in shops in towns and across the world.

F1 2016

F1 2016 includes a new career mode that will take gamers deeper into the world’s most glamorous, exciting and prestigious motorsport, both on and off the track. The lifelike recreation of the sport will be further enhanced by the addition of the sport’s iconic Safety Car and Virtual Safety Car, as well as the introduction of the challenging new street circuit in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Off-track, players will work with their Research and Development Engineer and Player Agent to develop their progress in the paddock and hospitality area.

August 2016 83

websites VERDICT: A great tool for those often forgetting the theme tune to their favourite programme.

Piano Concert La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art hosted a music concert by Mina Iwahashi at its premises in Manama.

Mina Iwahashi

Eman, Fatima & Mohammed

SSite:http://www.tunefind.com/ Rating: OOOO Steve & Maria

Jocelyn & Hector

What is it?

Ever wondered what that amazing or emotional song that you just heard in a movie was? Or vice-versa, which show a certain theme tune belonged to? This website contains a database of thousands of themes and movies to pinpoint the song or show you are looking for.

The Good: Ahmed, Shahala, Badria & Huda

Deemah & Abdulrahman

The soundtrack listings are all prepared from user contributions. Even more importantly, users can validate a soundtrack as belonging to the show or not; so you only get accurate information unlike edit-byanyone websites.

The Bad:

The selection of TV soundtrack information veers towards the more recent ones on the air, which is occasionally counter-productive as it’s more often than not the TV theme tunes from your childhood or distant past that you’ve forgotten and want to find.

https://www.producthunt.com/ Rose Hotel held a party featuring Insignia along with Club Party Ramee DJ Francis at Kabayanz.

The band performance

Product Hunt is an online space for entrepreneurs and creative people who want to promote their new tech products, services, books, games or podcasts. If you want to be the first to know about the best new products and services that launch, visit here and read reviews, discussion and even have a vote.

https://medium.com/

Nancy & Nicky

Chris & Abbas

84 August 2016

Chat, Maricris & Lerrie

Iliyas & Vency

Medium is a blogging/publishing website where lots of talented writers go to share their stories and to educate others willing to read their stuff. You can find everything there from opinion pieces and personal development hacks, to marketing advice and health tips. If you love to read interesting life titbits, get on Medium and start browsing your interests. www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

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

What is it?

We live in the ‘selfie era’, and research has proven that mobile phones are the source of the lion’s share of all the world’s photography, with self-portraits on a laser-targeted mission to become the most common type of photo.

As such, Facetune’s interface features a ton of options to customise your selfies. When you start, you see a mostly plain white field with buttons across the bottom for Canvas, Whiten (for teeth), Smoothing, Details, Reshape, and others, for a total of 11 options.

The Good:

App: Facetune Rating: OOOOO Verdict: One of the best apps to touch up your photos.

The interface is extremely user-friendly. When you choose one of the tools, a mini-tutorial page on its use shows up first, including a short video that demonstrates it. This means you know exactly what you’re doing and can choose what features to enhance.

There are undo and redo buttons too, which seem like obvious additions but are missing from so many similar apps. No more discarding an hour’s work because you accidentally gave yourself a receding hairline!

The Bad:

The worst aspect of the app is a lack of tilt option. There is only 90-degree rotation, which is annoying if you want your angles just right. Red-eye correction is also quite fiddly and requires a delicate touch rather than just an automatic button-press.

App: Star Walk 2

App: Microsoft Word Flow Keyboard

A rebooted and much-improved version of the premier astronomy app.

Star Walk 2 shows a starry sky on your phone or tablet screen in whatever direction you are pointing the device. This is true for day or night. During the day, you can see the sun and the stars and planets portrayed in a twilight-blue sky. At night, the stars are visible against a black background. To navigate, you pan your view on screen by swiping in any direction, zoom in by stretching the screen, or zoom out by pinching it.

There is also a clock interface to travel thousands of years through time to see how the heavens move.

For those who have a nightmare with smartphone keyboards and wage a constant war with Autocorrect, this app is for you. The best part of the Word Flow Keyboard is that it lets you enter words with shape/gesture writing, which involves continuously sliding your finger through the letters of a word that is then predicted by the keyboard and entered.

You don’t have to type spaces with this kind of entry, and World Flow shows the path of your finger swiping with a dotted green line. The idea is that your muscle memory starts to actually learn the shape of words, rather than the spelling, for super-fast text entry. It also has an arc mode for one-thumb typing.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2016 85

movies

VERDICT:

Dj Steve Sinclair & Ankush

Loud and dumb, but thrilling nonetheless.

DJ Party

Film: Independence Day: Resurgence Rating: OOO

Ramee Rose Hotel held a party featuring DJ Steve Sinclair at Club XS DJ Steve Sinclair Adel & Jacob

Directed by: Roland Emmerich Starring: Liam Hemsworth, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman

The Plot:

Pete, Kathrine & Randy Sandeep & Ashish

Twenty years after the events of the first film, the international community recovers and the United Nations creates the Earth Space Defence (ESD), a united global defence programme that serves as Earth’s early warning system. However, the aliens were able to send a distress signal to their other battalions before their final defeat while others went into hiding elsewhere around the world. The aliens in deep space received the signal and send a larger and more powerful battle fleet, threatening the human race once more.

Worth Watching?

Cici, James, Coco & Felix

Lukman & Raj

For fans of the original film and movies of mass destruction, this will be well worth a trip to the cinema. It is as big and brash as you get, with extravagant set pieces and special effects galore squashing entire cities and pulverising landmarks. Luckily, they’re some of the most well-crafted and authentic scenes of recent times, which somewhat helps to cover the lack of character-building and plot coherency. This is a thrilling and fun journey that doesn’t involve much audience input.

Ghostbusters

Anna, Irene, Analyn, Evelyn & Mary Ann

Jeny, Luck, Paty, Melissa & Mot

86 August 2016

Raja, Wasim & Mo

Vasanth, Javid & Amith

Erin Gilbert and Abby Yates are a pair of unheralded authors who write a book positing that ghosts are real. A few years later, Gilbert lands a prestigious teaching position at Columbia University, but her book resurfaces and she is laughed out of academia.

When ghosts invade Manhattan, Gilbert reunites with Yates to save the world from a mysterious evil and powerful demon.

Star Trek Beyond

The first leg of the USS Enterprise’s five year mission takes the voyagers into uncharted territory. There the Enterprise is nearly destroyed and strands Kirk and his crew on a remote planet with no means of communication. Kirk must then work with the elements to reunite his crew and get back to Earth.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING

DINING TABLE THEATRICS PUJA TIWARI Enjoy a fully immersive, authentic dining experience at this Japanese culinary jewel.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 90 THE SWEETEST BRUNCH IN TOWN! 94 TABLE HOPPING

Chef Riichiro Matsui

C

onsidering myself to be a Japanese food enthusiast, I was beyond excited as the elevator whizzed to the 35th floor of The Domain Hotel and Spa, where fine dining restaurant Imari is situated.

With a view that is absolutely breathtaking, Imari’s colour scheme is evocative of the sea, with milky white and deep blues hues enveloping the decor. It is inspired by the maritime heritage of Bahrain and Japan. Imari, a city in Japan, is famous for its fine porcelain, and this is reflected in the crockery used by the restaurant.

The agenda for the afternoon included the business lunch and sukiyaki promotion.

The sukiyaki was to be cooked by master chef Riichiro Matsui, who is of Japanese origin and has years of kitchen experience spanning over Europe, the USA and Asia.

As we settled into a table by the window, my eyes lapped up the stunning views of Bahrain in broad daylight. A business lunch is offered on weekdays, which comprises of a bento box.

88 August 2016

This has several variations, with seafood, beef or chicken being the main theme of each. The price starts from BD6 onwards.

As an avid fan of Japanese cuisine, I settled for the udon noodle chicken curry bento, which came with a side of calamari tempura, salad, rice, seaweed, pickles and fruit.

The portion of curry is generous enough to share between two people and is packed with chunky udon noodles and delectable pieces of chicken.

About an hour later, chef Riichiro came to our table and placed on it a mini burner, a hot pot and a plate filled with a variety of mushrooms, thinly sliced beef, leafy greens, spring onions and tofu. He explained that the beef is first cooked in its own fat, without oil, and then proceeded to demonstrate. The fat melted like butter on the surface of the pot, and we watched with glee as the beef turned from pink to brown while it seared. People in the restaurant started filming chef Riichiro like the

paparazzi, documenting his every stir.

The vegetables are added slowly, ensuring the proper cooking of each ingredient. Chef Riichiro grabbed a carafe of what looked like soy sauce, but quickly clarified that it was an in-house sukiyaki sauce, with a soy sauce base. Watching the meat and veggies simmer as they cook worked up my taste buds, and the chef served us a small portion in porcelain bowls. The meat was tender, with a sweet and salty tang from the sauce, and the mushrooms and tofu added an ambrosial depth to the dish.

Sukiyaki varies greatly from Shabu Shabu, which is cooked inside a clay pot with a clear broth, and the flavour is much milder to the palate, in the words of chef Riichiro.

The Sukiyaki promotion is an interactive dining experience which brings theatrics to the table and is great fun when dining as a group.

It is available every Tuesday.

Call 16 000-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining LE MÉRIDIEN HOTEL, CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

The Sweetest Brunch in Town!

Pastry chef Sanjeewa Perera

CHARLIE HOLDING This leading hotel is aiming to entice customers with its revamped brunch – an affair that offers a scintillating selection of fine fare and an alluring array of sweet treats.

They say variety is the spice of life, and Baharat, which means spice in Arabic, certainly has no shortage of variety. This restaurant – located at Le Méridien Hotel, City Centre Bahrain – is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Brunch is nothing short of an institution in the Kingdom and there is certainly no shortage of options to choose from. Some pride themselves on the bevy of beverages, others entice with an overwhelming selection. Baharat sinks in its hooks with a medley of marvellous creations.

At the heart of this restaurant is the kitchen team, which comprises around 15 different nationalities. Austrian Andreas Gober – executive chef for Le Méridien and The Westin – says it is the diversity behind the scenes that affects the variety on the menu.

“It’s about teamwork and collaboration,” he explains. “Each chef contributes something and we try to add new items each week so we don’t become stagnant. We continuously evolve the menu and we have a number of exciting things planned in the coming months.”

Heading the kitchen is Hany Mustapha, an Egyptian chef with an eye for detail. “We want people to come and discover the brunch for themselves,” he says. “I’m sure there is something for everyone.”

The man behind the stunning selection of 100 90 August 2016

desserts is Sri Lankan pastry chef Sanjeewa Perera. He decided to move the dessert station outside the restaurant so that it is the first thing guests see when they enter the hotel. “This has made a huge difference because people can see what we have to offer,” he says.

Alongside the sweets, the starters, mains and tidbits are also a formidable combination.

Baharat is not the biggest brunch on the island but it stands its ground firmly thanks to the sheer variety and quality of dishes available.

I started off with a selection of sushi, each mouth-sized bite being more tantalising than the last. The spicy tuna was my favourite because, although it packs a kick, it’s not an overwhelming one that will send you reaching for the ice water. It is a must-try!

The chef insisted I sample the beef ribs and I’m so glad he did. These marvellous morsels were an absolute delight for the taste buds and the tangy sauce really brought this dish to life.

Foie gras is a luxury food product made from the liver of a duck or goose that has been specially fattened. Baharat has this preparation down to an art and it leaves a moreish aftertaste in your mouth.

The carvery was the next stop on my culinary journey and it did not disappoint. I began with the glazed duck, which was succulent and cooked to perfection. The rib-eye beef was equally as impressive – tender, juicy and it melted on the tongue like butter.

A single page isn’t enough to do justice to the selection at Bahrat. There is also a fresh seafood station, an Asian station, a pasta station, kids’ station and Indian station among many others.

The dessert rounded off a magnificent meal.

After pacing up and down the aisle for what seemed like an eternity, I opted for the Bakewell tart. However, the most impressive addition was yet to come. I asked chef for some ice cream and a mischievous grin shot across his face before telling me he’d bring it to the table. What followed was literally the coolest thing I’ve ever seen at brunch.

The ice cream arrived atop a metallic container with a series of vents. Chef then poured water over it, which caused frosty smoke to majestically appear! A well-deserved 10 out of 10 for presentation.

But the fun didn’t stop there. Chef Andreas recommended I try a meringue dish which was prepared fresh at the table with a little help from a blowtorch – yes, a blowtorch! Baharat certainly pulls out all the stops to deliver a memorable brunch.

Some of the other desserts worth trying include the chocolate shawarma and the incredibly popular, ‘make your own éclair’.

I was so full, I genuinely struggled to move as I got up to leave – now I know how the foie gras felt.

Call 17 171-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAMBU

Awesomely Asian A firm favourite of the Kingdom’s culinary scene, the bright green building of Bambu is hard to miss and impossible to forget once you’ve sampled the sensational selection of Asian fare on offer.

Formerly in Block 338, it was reborn at a nearby location in 2014 and has quickly regained a loyal following.

Each dish is prepared fresh on the spot by the talented kitchen team headed by acclaimed head chef Lee Jun. Chef Lee is a legend in Bahrain for a reason; she prepares some of the best Asian food you’ll ever eat, filled with flavour and low on grease.

You’ll enjoy the upscale setting where you won’t feel rushed while you savour each bite of the numerous delights offered on the menu, which includes street food from China, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Perhaps one of the most popular items is the infamous salt and pepper crab, a moreish preparation that has a cult following all its own. And diners should also make sure to try the lemon chicken, garlic rice and steak spinach.

Those seeking a vegetarian option are also well catered for with Bambu offering plenty of vegetable dishes and chef Lee always happy to whip up veggie alternatives to menu items using tasty tofu.

The venue boasts an outside garden with a stunning water feature and there is also an upstairs lounge, which is available for private events.

Check out regular special offers such as ladies’ night, where girls can eat and drink their fill at a set price and Bambu is also the best place to celebrate special occasions such as Chinese New Year.

Call 17 262-555.

August 2016 91

dining NOVOTEL BAHRAIN AL DANA RESORT

What a Catch!

This seafood restaurant offers seaside dining with a menu that boasts all things fresh.

A favourite haunt of seafood connoisseurs, La Perle at Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort offers a delightfully fishy dining experience.

An exceptional selection of fresh local and imported fish along with delectable seafood, and various other culinary specialities adorn the menu.

The choice of seafood on the ice rocks is quite amazing. On display are red rammour, sherry, fasker, safi, solos, Sultan Ibrahim and dori, alongside jumbo prawns, salmon, black mussels, crabs, clams,lobster and scallos.

Pamper your taste buds by indulging in the catch of the day, a sumptuous seafood platter or lavish dessert.

One can choose to dine indoors while soaking in the beautiful, azure dĂŠcor, or sit outside on the terrace while enjoying shisha with a breathtaking view of the sea.

La Perle is open all week for lunch from 1pm

to 3.30pm, and for dinner from 7pm to midnight.

A beachside resort which combines traditional Arabic architecture with a modern touch, Novotel Bahrain Al Dana is located in close proximity to the heart of the city. It offers

166 rooms and luxury suites, as well as a restaurant and bar, making it a favourite with new and regular guests.

Call 17 298-471.

Restaurant Opening Matthias & Yasir

Reem Al Bawadi Restaurant held its official opening at Ramada Manama City Centre.

Hesham Almekkawi, Urs George & Omar

Ribbon-cutting ceremony

Yassan & Urs George Anna & Syamily

Ariviena & Fatima

92 August 2016

Gopala Krishnan, Redha & Haseeb

Theresa & Geeta

Lowry & Gerry

Admer & Noel

Chef Hossan

Hadi & Herve

www.bahrainthismonth.com

REEM AL BAWADI

Nutty Delight Learn how to whip up to an ambrosial walnut moutabal with an authentic recipe from this Middle Eastern restaurant.

Moutabal is a dip like hummous, with the robust flavour of roasted eggplant, a staple on the Middle Eastern table. The dish is a speciality at Reem Al Bawadi, the newly opened authentic Arabic restaurant at the Ramada Manama City Centre Hotel.

In this recipe the eggplants are grilled, however, they can also be fried.

The crushed walnuts bring a nutty twist to the original version and it is best enjoyed with pita bread. Read on to learn how to make this delicious dish at home.

Serves 6-8 Ingredients • 1kg grilled, skinless eggplant, chopped • 30ml lemon juice • 15g salt • 150g tahini paste • 10g olive oil • 0.1g parsley, chopped • 25g walnut, crushed • 1g fresh mint leaves Method To achieve the eminent smoky flavour, cook the eggplant on an open flame. If you have a gas stove or barbecue, place the entire eggplant directly on the fire and cook it until the inside is soft.

Allow the roasted eggplant to rest for 10-15 minutes, then run it under cold water and slowly peel using your fingers.

Remove the stem and place the flesh into a plastic container. Run a knife through the flesh to separate it, and add the lemon juice, salt and tahini paste.

Mash the mixture using a spoon or a mortar and pestle, and mix well.

Spread on a plate and garnish with a light drizzle of olive oil, crushed walnuts and mint. www.bahrainthismonth.com

NOW OPEN

Reem Al Bawadi Restaurant and Café Award winning, Middle Eastern themed Restaurant, renowned for its authentic cuisine and hospitality

Ramada Manama City Centre, Al Seef Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 1710 4044 | Fax: +973 1710 4010 www.reemalbawadi.com

August 2016 93

tablehopping

MAJESTIC BREWS Serving over 30 tea blends and infusions, Majestea at Seef Mall is a petite, English-style tea room. It is the only place which offers luxury Singaporean tea brand TWG, along with a variety of delicious grub.

Majestea results from the coming together of creative minds Mariam Alkhan, Ayesha Alkhaja and Nofa Alani, and makes for the perfect place to stop and refuel in between shopping sprees. They experimented with different traditional flavours, such as karak, custard and saffron to come up with special tea blends. The menu offers a wide range of breakfast items such as French toast, eggs and its signature pancakes. Choose between chocolate, red velvet and Biscoff pancakes for a sweet treat.

For the health conscious, there is a selection of eclectic salads like date rocca, chicken and pumpkin. Enjoy grilled chicken, roast beef and turkey sandwiches for a filling snack. Catch up with friends and family over a round of high tea in the afternoon or dig into one of many desserts

FISHY BUSINESS

When? Saturday-Thursday Event? Smart menu Venue? Bushido Restaurant and Lounge Whiz through a three-course set lunch in 30 minutes for BD10.

E Call 17 583-555.

displayed in the window.

Attentive service and a wonderful atmosphere make this eatery the perfect choice for any time of the day. Majestea is open from 9am-10pm, Saturday to Wednesday, and from 9am-midnight on Thursdays and Fridays.

Call 77 377-770.

FOUR’S A PARTY

When? Every Saturday Event? Re/Imagine your Saturdays Venue? re Asian Cuisine at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Savoury brunch with Korean fried chicken bao buns, wok fried shrimp and more, priced at BD19++.

E Call 17 115-000.

When? Every Tuesday Event? Steak Night Venue? Level 34 at Le Sauvage, The Domain Hotel and Spa Enjoy succulent Argentinean rib steaks, a garden salad and French fries for BD11++ per person.

E Call 16 000-000.

When? Every Tuesday Event? Tex Mex night Venue? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Let the mouthwatering, zesty flavours transport you to Mexico, priced at BD14.550.

E Call 17 531-222.

Seafood lovers are in for a treat as Choices Terrace at the ART Rotana brings you the best treasures from the depths of the ocean. The Fisherman’s Voyage of seafood discovery stretches to the four corners of the Earth, offering guests a bounty of great eats, refreshing island drinks and live entertainment throughout the evening. The journey runs from 7pm-10.30pm every Thursday. Buffet packages are priced at BD16 including soft drinks and juices or BD25 with selected house beverages.

Call 16 000-111.

Every Tuesday, the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa sets the mood with a romantic Arabian dinner for couples at Pashawat. A candlelit atmosphere with soft, Oriental tunes and delightful cuisine makes for the perfect opportunity to unwind during the week. A belly dancer and singer will mesmerise you as they combine graceful moves with hypnotic songs. Pashawat is known for its authentic Arabic food and scintillating décor.

Bring another couple along and enjoy the set menu for BD 40 for four people.

Call 17 636-363.

SCINTILLATING SEAFOOD “Sakana” is the Japanese word for fish, and such is the theme of the menu throughout August at Bushido Restaurant and Lounge. There is a selection of exclusive and unique dishes including the mint gravlax nigiri, consisting of home cured Scottish salmon and cream cheese topped with caviar, beetroot quinoa sea bass and robata-style sea bass fillet. For a fiery option, the spicy yellowtail salad is sure to delight combining a tasty mix of fresh greens and homemade yuzu miso dressing.

Call 17 583-555.

94 August 2016

When? Daily Event? Chowmein promotion Venue? Soie, Sheraton Bahrain Enjoy this Chinese delight throughout the month of August.

E Call 17 533-533.

When? Weekdays Event? Business Lunch Venue? Primavera, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Enjoy a three-course business set lunch by two Michelinstarred chef Oliver Glowig for BD15++.

E Call 17 583-000.

When? Every Tuesday Event? Sushi Art Venue? WU, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands Eat all the sushi you fancy along with a set menu of hot dishes priced at BD21++.

E Call 16 000-111.

When? August 19 Event? Italian Brunch Venue? Lobby, Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel The best of Italian cuisine set in a wonderful atmosphere for BD34.

E Call 17 531-666.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ALL THINGS SPICY

AROUND THE CLOCK ACTION

When? Daily Event? Afternoon Tea Venue? Bay View Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay A perfect excuse for a good cup of tea paired with gourmet bites, priced at BD15++.

E Call 17 115-000.

When? Daily Event? Teppanyaki Experience Venue? Bushido Restaurant and Lounge Thrill your senses with live cooking and delicious food with friends and family.

E Call 17 583-555.

Brimming with robust flavours to satisfy every palate, the spices and curries promotion will run throughout the month of August at Le Jardin, Ramada Bahrain in Adliya. The menu boasts the well-loved Goan prawn vindaloo, the Ramada roast fish curry, which is the chef’s speciality, chicken tikka masala, Thai green chicken curry, tofu and zucchini curry, as well as a cottage cheese and spinach curry among many others. All the curries are served with your choice of rice, ranging from saffron to vegetable pulao.

Call 17 742-000.

SEA-ZZLING THURSDAYS

Time Café at Ramee Rose will be showcasing the Rio 2016 Olympics 24 hours a day while featuring a delicious selection of eats until August 21. With its stadium-like atmosphere, the café offers enough space for sporting fans to get rowdy watching their favourite activity on one of the seven 90-inch screens.

There are also some big league promotions such as the burger and brew deal for BD6.500 all day, and a 20-percent discount on all food and beverages from 3pm-7pm.

Call 17 616-167.

IT’S CHEESY! Pizza lovers, brace yourselves! Cico’s Italian restaurant is having a pizza festival throughout the month of August, which is hosted by visiting chef Nicola Ottoboni. There are nine different pizzas available, from the classic margherita, to the tartufo with fresh truffles. A live pizza cooking, a pizza eating championship, and a spicy pizza challenge for the brave ones dots the calendar. Live entertainment will add to the festivities, and the promotion is available daily from 12.30pm onwards.

Call 17 713-710.

A succulent selection of shellfish, sushi, sashimi, crustaceans and more awaits to thrill your taste buds at Baharat, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre.

Try your claws cooked in 30 different ways, or have one of the skilled chefs prepare fresh fish to your preference. The flavour combinations are endless.

The seafood night is hosted every Thursday, from 6.30pm-11pm, and is priced at BD28++ with selected beverages and BD16++ with soft drinks.

Call 17 171-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? Every Sunday Event? The classic burgers Venue? Level 34 at Le Sauvage, The Domain Hotel and Spa Angus beef, lamb foie gras, spicy avocado salsa and many other dishes make for a scrumptious feast, priced at BD9++.

E Call 16 000-000.

When? Every Thursday Event? Seafood Night Venue? Citrus, Ramada Hotel and Suites, Amwaj Islands Delight your senses with delectable treasures from the sea, priced at BD12++.

E Call 16 000-099.

When? Daily Event? Quiche Lunch Month Venue? Espressamente Illy Café, Sheraton Bahrain Enjoy a light lunch with a daily quiche throughout August.

E Call 17 533-533.

When? Every Monday Event? Seafood Night Venue? Silk’s, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Dive into the freshest, heartiest seafood buffet for BD29.

E Call 17 460-000.

When? Every Monday Event? French Night Venue? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Relish a buffet of French dishes with beef bourguignon, fresh salads and cheese for BD14.551.

E Call 17 531-122.

August 2016 95

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Trendy Tots Jawad Business Group brings the popular kids’ brand allo&lugh to Bahrain. The store also has a collection of Fourlads and Alfonso brands for children from new born to 12 years including a complete line of apparel, a nursery line and travel items.

Available at Seef Mall.

Absolute Eye-catchers These enchanting pieces from Esprit elegantly interpret the key theme of Secret Garden. The large pink-gold-plated butterfly and its smaller rhodium-plated silver companion are elaborately crafted and adorned with crystal stones. Each comes with its counterpart in the form of an embellished outline. For a more casual look, the 80cm-long chain of the big butterfly can be worn at 45cm.

Available at A La Mode outlets.

Happy Summer In a spirit of do-it-yourself customisation, Chopard’s new Happy Sport 36mm models come fitted with interchangeable straps.

Precious, yet sporty, these modern timepieces showcase on-trend summer colours and the famous moving diamonds whirl between two sapphire crystals.

Available at leading outlets.

Colours Galore Be transformed by MAC’s new collection of 19 shades of Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour and Huggable Lipcolour for loud and lustrous lips. Reinvent your look with contrasting eye shadows and liners, to take you from dainty to daring.

Available at Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

Hello Beautiful Bath & Body Works’ most charming signature collection fragrance is here. This petal-perfect blend of white gardenia, magnolia blossoms and fresh jasmine will give you a fun and flirty feel every time you wear it.

Available at Bath & Body Works in Seef Mall, City Centre Bahrain and Seef Mall Muharraq.

96 August 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace technological advancements has led to the usage of eco-friendly agents to deliver the highest quality results without impacting the natural world.

Jeeves is the first in the Middle East to use GreenEarth, an exclusive process which uses liquid silicone, a safe and natural by-product of sand which is non-toxic to the environment. It is also less abrasive on clothes and protects against wear, shrinkage and colour fade.

In Bahrain, Jeeves is able to make van collections for no extra charge, and a new branch is going to open soon at El Mercado Mall in Janabiyah. New customers can take advantage of a 20-per-cent discount on the services.

JEEVES

A Fine Cleaning Experience This specialist laundry service is renowned for catering to royalty, haute couture ateliers, and individuals who value and appreciate their quality garments.

98 August 2016

Jeeves of Belgravia combines unparalleled service with the most advanced techniques in fabric care for an impeccable laundry experience, with shops in Hamala and Riffa.

Well known for its craftsmanship, each item at Jeeves goes through a comprehensive process starting with an evaluation of the fabric, cleaning, iron pressing, minor repairs and ending with a final hand inspection.

Each client’s individual requirements are taken into consideration for a meticulous, customised experience.

Jeeves offers a range of services including environmentally responsible laundering, dry cleaning, alterations and shoe repairs as well as specialist options such as couture, suedes and leathers, toys, curtains, bridal wear and handbag restoration.

The first shop was opened in Belgravia, London, over 45 years ago and was named after the character Jeeves, the levelheaded, scrupulous personal valet of Bertie Wooster - created by P.G Wodhouse. It was later appointed by HRH the Prince of Wales as London’s finest dry cleaners.

The staff at Jeeves have an extensive knowledge of garment care which, combined with attention to detail, ensures that each item is given the attention it deserves.

Constant investment in innovation and leading

Helpful hints from the specialists: 1. Deal with stained clothes as quickly as possible, because marks left unattended may develop and damage the fabric.

2. Do not apply soda water or salt to smudges as it makes them more difficult to treat.

3. Dry cleaning relates to oil-based blotches. Never dab water on these specks as it sets oil into fabric.

4. The dye in some fabrics is more soluble than the stain. Eradicating it will remove the dye.

5. Leather needs wiping with a damp cloth to remove dirt. When dry, apply a special polish for the same.

6. A small splotch on suede may be removed using a hard Indian rubber in a gentle, circular motion.

7. Store leather and suede under a cotton cover, never plastic. The skin needs to breathe.

8. Protect the collar area from perspiration and body oils with a scarf.

9. Dress for the occasion. When attending events such as cocktail parties, wear something washable.

10. Water-based blemishes are more difficult to deal with and can loosen the dye in the fabrics. Do not apply water to such stains.

Call 17 465-575.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

RCSI Graduation

Zainab & Zainab

Mooza & Noora

Aven, Aisha & Basma

Fatema & Fatema

Abdulla & Afnan

Marwa, Maryam & Maryam

Mohammed & Mohammed

Hala & Wardha

Ahmed, Ali & Ameel

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Medical University of Bahrain held its conferring ceremony for the school of medicine at its premises in Busaiteen.

Amna & Amr

Batool & Aseefa

Fatema & Fatema

JFC Bahrain Amwaj is located

Programs

in Amwaj business park.

Personal Training - Insanity - Crossfit - Triathlon Beach workout - Group Workout

Facilities Crossfit Box – Gym For more info 33002592 - 7707220 @jfcbahrain www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Open from Saturday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm August 2016 99

marketplace Usain Bolt

ndini

Jenna Pra

AMA SPORTS – PUMA

Double Your Run! This popular sports brand’s new addition to its Autumn-Winter 2016 collection introduces dual benefits in one running shoe.

100 August 2016

Global sports brand PUMA continues to expand its successful IGNITE running collection with the new IGNITE Dual range, which offers duality in both function and style.

Engineered to provide ultimate flexibility and cushioning for mid- and long-distance runners, the shoe features an IGNITE Foam midsole that’s visible on the heel and hidden in the forefoot to offer maximum energy return. Articulated chevron grooves are designed to compress during landing and rebound. The molded EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) sockliner cradles the foot comfortably for an easy run, while the outsole has been technically enhanced by PUMA to mimic the natural gait of the runner. A guidance groove that runs from the heel allows a smoother transfer of the runner’s weight from heelstrike to toe-off.

The duality story extends to the upper part of the shoe with a two-tone premium elastic mesh that delivers a comfortable fit, breathability and flexibility.

Adding depth and dimension to the silhouette is the colour shifting mesh and reflective panels for extra visibility in low-light conditions. The look is finished with an exciting and contemporary graphic that gives the IGNITE Dual a youthful appeal and hooks back to the upcoming Olympic Games where the design DNA continues on the training and podium wear of PUMAsponsored federations and athletes.

The IGNITE Dual is available in IGNITE Dual Disc and IGNITE Dual evoKnit iterations – variations of the upper design with the same tooling.

The IGNITE Dual Disc features PUMA’s innovative laceless Disc Closure System that allows a quick, easy and custom fit with a turn of the Disc dial. The

evoKnit Dual is created with a knitted upper for a soft cushiony fit, breathability and agility.

The IGNITE Dual’s twin colourway and graphics also appear in PUMA’s Autumn-Winter ’16 inline running apparel range which is all equipped with innovative dryCELL technology – materials that draw sweat away from your skin to help keep you dry during workouts; the latest apparel collection offers function as well as style.

The graphic short-sleeved tee is designed with mesh inserts that help improve air circulation at critical heat zones, while a Cleansport NXT finish ensures organicbased odour control. Additional reflective details give extra visibility in low-light conditions.

The Vent Thermo-R runner jacket enhances and adapts to movement with an innovative, lightweight, thermo-regulating design. The windproof softshell material protects against windchill during your run, while high tension areas in the garment enable ventilation to keep you cool when in motion and warm when at rest.

The two-in-one shorts, lightweight and woven with an inner compressive layer, are perfect for enhanced movement. They feature a back-zip pocket with a laminated, waterproof lining to ensure belongings stay dry.

The new IGNITE Dual and running apparel range are now available at the PUMA Store, located on the second floor of City Centre Bahrain.

Call 17 178-046. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace Joz Salon & Spa gives you the lowdown on this popular fad.

Techniques and Tools Specialists start with the same techniques as for the manicure or pedicure: • Acrylics: a chemical mixture of monomer liquid and polymer powder that can be directly applied on the nails or on artificial nails, also called nail extensions or enhancements.

• Nail gel: a chemical combination similar to acrylics, also known as shellac nails. The manicurist applies several layers on the fingernails or/and toenails and lets it cure under a UV or LED light. When the gel is set, it is as hard as nails. Similarly, the ‘gel polish’ also requires a UV or LED light to cure. The difference between acrylic and gel is that the former dries naturally while the latter needs UV light to set. Likewise, where regular nail paint will dry naturally, gel polish will remain tacky until cured by a UV light.

• Nail polish/nail varnish: a lacquer applied to finger and toe nails to protect or as a base colour.

Manicurists also use an undercoat to protect and strengthen nails, as well as preventing the natural nail from yellowing or staining.

JOZ SALON & SPA

Nail Art Revealed Nail art has reached new heights in fashion and popular culture, transforming the meaning of manicure in the last few years.

Until recently, painted nails were a symbol of classic, grown-up elegance. Traditional shades with timeless names – pillar box red or balletslipper pink – dominated the market. But the boom in nail art and the trend for eyebrowraising colours, like steel grey, neon tangerine and moss green, have turned the rules upside down. Nails have never been so high profile in fashion and popular culture, and a new generation of young women are using nail varnish to express their individuality, fashion 102 August 2016

Several options are available for decorating nails. These include glitters, nail art pens, piercing, water marbling and adding accessories such as studs, rhinestones, miniature plastic bow-ties, beads and aluminum foil. Acrylic powder can also be used for creating 3D art.

To decorate the nails, manicurists at Joz Salon & Spa use several tools such as nail dotters, also known as ‘dotting tools’; nail art brushes; stationery tape/stickers; thin, coloured striping tape and sponges for gradient effects.

Call 17 369-133, 16 031-120 or 17 756-449.

savvy, creativity and even their humour.

Nail art – the painstaking business of painting and gluing designs and tiny jewels onto nails, often lengthened with extensions to create a larger canvas – has its roots in small local salons, but has rapidly become big business and a favourite of female celebrities from the worlds of music, sport and fashion. Fresh from the manicurist, many Instagram their new looks around the world.

Beauty bloggers are currently tipping as the coming trend the half-moon manicure – an updated version of the traditional French, in which the semi-circle at the base is painted a contrasting colour to the rest of the nail. www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAHRAIN DEVELOPMENT BANK

Enriching the Economy Supporting entrepreneurship in diverse sectors of the economy has been a key element of this bank’s plans for Bahrain’s progress.

As in all economies around the world, small and medium enterprises in the Kingdom form an integral part of its business activity and impact entrepreneurial development substantially.

Since the commencement of its operations in 1992, Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) has focused on adopting effective integrated programmes to facilitate the establishment of small and medium-sized enterprises, with an emphasis on expansion and development of existing ventures.

BDB has also been successful in playing a major developmental role in the Kingdom through diversification of its investment activities, turning its attention to new sectors with added value such as the refining industry, food industry, tourism and health projects. Supporting troubled projects and putting them back on the path to profitability has also been at the core of BDB’s plan.

In keeping with its foresight for the nation’s bright future, the bank endeavours to see the advancement of Bahraini youth and strengthen their capacity to take up entrepreneurship. One of BDB’s most popular comprehensive programmes is ‘Rowad’, which is designed to enable entrepreneurs to develop their ideas and start their own businesses.

BDB will continue with its on-going initiatives and introduce new ones

Yoga Day Celebration

Call 17 511-111 or visit www.bdb-bh.com.

Cancer Care Group Bahrain conducted an International Yoga Day awareness event at the Princess Al Jawahara Ibrahim Center for Molecular Medicine.

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, HE Faeqa Saeed Al Saleh & Ahmed Mohammas

Dr Mohammed Aminawad, Jassim Bahar & Ebrahim Ahmadi

2nd Yoga Day

to attract existing entrepreneurs as well as encourage students of secondary schools and universities to consider running their own business as a viable option.

The bank also provides important services such as BDB finance, Islamic financing, education finance, BDB and Tamkeen finance, Letters of Credit and Letters of Guarantee, as well as loans for agriculture and fisheries.

Dr Kawther, Sharifa & Hamed

Dr P V Cherian

Dr Jihad Rajab & Dr Nabil

Samir Al Darabi

Ahmed bin Yousif Al Ansari

Dr Babu

Arun

The Indian Embassy organised an event to mark the 2nd International day of Yoga at the Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam Hall in Segaya.

Radhakrishnan, HE Chilman Arisman & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HE Dr A S U Mendis

Muneera

Frances & Varghees

Meera & Sisodia

August 2016 103

Other Events

bystander

Y K Almoayyed & Sons Renault Bahrain hosted a Ramadan Ghabga for members of the media at the Khaimat Al Khaleej tent, Gulf Hotel.

House of Travel awarded Maryam Al Qahtani the grand prize of its raffle draw.

The Delmon International Hotel celebrated International Yoga Day at its premises in Manama.

HE William V Roebuck, American Ambassador, and wife Ann, visited Shri Krishna Hindu Temple, managed by The Thattai (Bhatia) Hindu Community (THC).

Saar Mall held a “Leave it on us!� Eid festival at its premises in Saar Crowne Plaza Bahrain awarded Ahmed Sami Khalifa & Ms. Lujaina Amr the grand prize of the Crowne Wedding Show 2016 raffle draw that was held at its Bahrain Conference Centre.

TASCA Toastmasters Club held an installation ceremony at the Ramee Rose Hotel.

104 August 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Other Events

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority held a press conference and MoU signing in line with the Old Manama Souq project at the Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Centre.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel donated over 1.7 tons of rice to Feed the Need Bahrain.

BSB Graduation

bystander

Delmon International Hotel held a raffle draw in the presence of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce representatives at its premises in Manama.

The Thattai (Bhatia) Hindu Community attended a condolence meeting held at the French Embassy offering prayers for peace in relation to the attacks in Nice, France.

The British School of Bahrain held its graduation ceremony at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel.

The graduates at the ceremony

Suad

BSB senior staff members and guests at the event

Dr Husam Noor & Charles

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Adel & Aziz Mitaiwala

Dr Husam Noor & Julie Anne

Lucy

Yousif, Sakeena & Batool Dadabhai

August 2016 105

marketplace SEVEN LEISURE

Fun at the Bay Whether you want to indulge in fine dining, savour a laidback meal or just sip on a chilled beverage by the beach; this resort has it all.

Imagine the picturesque view of a heart-warming sunset or a moonlit evening come to life right before your eyes while you enjoy the exquisite Coral Bay experience.

Situated on the clear waters of the Arabian Sea, Coral Bay is the ultimate resort destination for relaxation, adventure, entertainment and a gourmet experience par excellence.

The resort’s newest dining venture, Fish Mania, offers the marine world’s best, accompanied with a majestic view of the sea through the restaurant’s clear glass facades, and an impressive dropped ceiling that resembles the calming waves of the Gulf. The eatery’s superb ambience by day and night will not fail to impress even the most discerning guests.

From the wide variety of appetisers and freshly grilled fish to the impeccable presentation of sushi and sashimi, Fish Mania is a seafood heaven you shouldn’t miss. The restaurant organises various theme nights that serve as a local getaway right in the heart of Manama.

Coral Bay is also proud to introduce the C Hotel, the Gulf’s first five-star floating hotel. Here, you have all the amenities of a first-class beach resort at your disposal, all the while enjoying the feeling of being on a cruise ship.

Rayès, an authentic Lebanese restaurant and La Taverna, Bahrain’s first

Fish Mania

Italian restaurant, are also at Coral Bay Resort. Guests can take pleasure in a rejuvenating break at the Coral Spa and the posh C Salon, or just unwind in the resort’s infinity pool and bar. This beautiful beachfront property also offers numerous watersport activities.

No matter what your mood, Coral Bay guarantees great times and an extraordinary experience.

Call 17 312-700.

Farewell Party The Italian Ambassador’s wife, Romina Vecchi, hosted a farewell party at their residence.

Daniela & Florencia

Eman & Simonetta

Maria & Manuela

Michela & Asia

Romina & Claudia

Karina & Ann

Leylane, Ramla & Lilian

Lavinia, Elena & Antonella

Lamya & Rocio

Perwin & Dana

106 August 2016

Dana, Amal & Samira

Tosin & Charlie

Andrea, Anne & Romina

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace business bites

Law Change To Boost Investment Bahrain’s government has approved a change to the Commercial Companies Law allowing foreign investors 100-per- cent business ownership in the Kingdom.

The new law, which is designed to “spur growth, generate rewarding jobs for citizens and attract investment” was passed at a recent cabinet meeting headed by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

The sectors covered by the legislation include food, administrative services, arts, entertainment and leisure, health and social work, information and communications, manufacturing, mining and quarrying, water supply and professional, scientific, technical and real estate activities.

A cabinet statement said the law will encourage leading international firms to see Bahrain as a gateway to the region and will enhance government performance while aiding in the revival of some trade segments.

The move has been welcomed as timely by the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry and also by international real estate consultant Cluttons which said it would have a positive long-term impact on the island’s property market.

Foundation On Track

Top For Tech Information & eGovernment Authority chief executive Mohammed Ali AlQaed announced that Bahrain has achieved advanced rankings in a series of indexes within the Global Information Technology Report 2016, issued during the World Economic Forum, to be placed third internationally within the ‘Government Usage’ index for information and communications technologies (ICTs).

The Kingdom also took the spotlight in the ‘Social Impacts’ and ‘Individual Usage’ indexes ranking 13th and 14th internationally respectively.

The ‘Government Usage’ index assesses the importance of ICTs to government vision through a clear implementation plan for their use to improve the country’s overall competitiveness. It also assesses the quality of government delivery of online services as well as its success in promoting and supporting the use of ICTs. The ‘Social Impacts’ index focuses on the affect of ICTs on access to basic services such as health, education, financial services etc combined with ICT use and government efficiency and internet access for schools. It also assesses the quality, relevance and usefulness of government websites in providing online information and eParticipation by citizens.

The ‘Individual Usage’ index looks at the spread of internet and mobile phones.

The report uses data from 139 countries to study how ICT has been spread and utilised in each.

Moosa’s The Man In a step to build capabilities and expertise within the public relations sector in the Kingdom, the AlMabarrah Alkhalifia Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TRACCS, the largest independent public relations network in the Middle East and North Africa, which will pave the way for both organisations to establish a strategic partnership focusing on developing a series of internship programmes and other collaborative projects to further train and educate students enrolled with the Foundation.

The agreement, which appoints TRACCS as the official PR Partner, was signed by AlMabarrah Alkhalifia Foundation executive director, Saba Seyadi, and TRACCS Bahrain managing director, Shereen Bushehri. The foundation is a non-profit organisation established in 2011 with the aim of empowering Bahraini youth by introducing a series of comprehensive scholarship programmes specialised in education and youth development. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Citi Bahrain has appointed Nader Moosa as consumer market lead for Bahrain.

Having started his career with the company more than 20 years ago in the credit and collections unit, he was promoted to collections manager in 2002. In 2004, he was given additional responsibility to manage the fraud unit before being appointed loans business manager in 2006.

Nader became Bahrain assets and distribution head in June 2008 and now takes over the role as market lead.

Usman Ahmed, CEO of Citi Bahrain says: “I would like to congratulate Nader on his promotion. He has made a strong contribution to Citi Bahrain and we look forward to further expanding our consumer banking business in the Kingdom under his proven and able leadership.”

August 2016 107

marketplace business bites

Sweet Expo In a first for the island, the inaugural Chocolate and Coffee Exhibition and Festival, will take place from September 1-3. And the event is expected to attract manufacturers and suppliers from around the world.

Around 100 exhibitors are expected to take part with companies already confirmed from across the region including Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.

Top hospitality groups are also due to participate alongside regional franchisees of international chocolatiers.

The event will be held at Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Deficit Announced Bahrain’s non-oil trade deficit – the difference between value of imports and exports – was BD530 million during the second quarter ended June this year, shows the latest data from the Information and eGovernment Authority (IGA).

According to the GDN the value of exported products from Bahrain was BD488m, 83 per cent of it going to the top 10 ranked countries and 17pc to the other countries.

The value of imported products during the quarter was BD1.177 billion, 70pc of it from top 10 ranked countries and 30pc from other countries.

With a value of BD171m, Switzerland ranked as the top exporter to Bahrain followed by China ranked number two with BD129m. The UAE was third at BD107m, the IGA said.

Floating or submersible drilling platforms were the top product imported into Bahrain, costing to BD96m, followed by four-wheel drive vehicles, which amounted for BD95m and sedan vehicles (BD81m) being the third most-imported product category.

Saudi Arabia at BD119m was the top importer of Bahraini products followed by the US (BD73m) and the UAE (BD50m).

Clamp on Ghost Companies Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has welcomed new rules requiring compulsory membership for all commercial registration holders.

BCCI’s Abdulhameed Al Kooheji told the GDN there had been instances of businesses taking CRs in order to get visas which are then sold as, so called, free visas.

Membership of the chamber carries a fee which will discourage the practice and the new rules are also expected to increase legitimate membership.

Mr Al Kooheji says: “We are confident that the number of members will rise as a result of the new law, which will empower us to represent the interests of Bahrain’s private sector better locally as well as internationally.”

108 August 2016

Youth Partnership Agreement Zain Bahrain signed a one-year partnership with AIESEC, the world’s largest youth-run organisation as part of the telecom operator’s sustainable development strategy which aims to foster youth empowerment and development.

As part of the partnership, Zain Bahrain and AIESEC members distributed meals to lower-income workers and families as a way of giving back to the community during Ramadan. The operator also invited AIESEC members to deliver an assessment to 60 university students which involved different team-building activities and leadership challenges to evaluate students’ employability skills.

Zain corporate sustainability manager, Pakiza AbdulRahman, says: “We are launching up to four projects in collaboration with AISEC, UNIDO and the UNDP to serve the UN’s sustainable development goals. This comes as a continuation to the strategic alignment that Zain Group established with the UN back in 2015.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from A La Mode.

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions.

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Bahrain This Month received 86 entries last month, 78 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

Where will the Flamenco Vivo performance take place? ______________________________________________ Which movie will show at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art? ______________________________________________

Winner : Frietzie Duran Second Place : Zenaida Gapuz Third Place : Annalyn Gonzales

What’s the name of the new band at Tapas, Sofitel? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

Ad Seek:

2. Murder Mystery

2. Roti Boti

1. Mina Iwahashi

Who is the largest Indian investor in Bahrain? ______________________________________________

3. DJ Odette

6. Wok, Fiamma, Saraya, Pashawat, La Mer 7. BD35 and BD45 8. 2016 Golf GTI 9. Renault 10. 12

What is the name of the recipe brought to you by Al Areen Palace Resort and Spa? ______________________________________________

Name:

What is the name of the seafood restaurant at the Novotel Al Dana Resort? ______________________________________________

Telephone:

Address:

Email:

What is Kia’s tagline? ______________________________________________

CPR:

When will Al Haddad Motors present the GLS roadshow in Seef Mall Muharraq?

7/20/16

4. JFC Bahrain Amwaj

5. David Bell

What is the name of the chef at Imari at The Domain Hotel and Spa? ______________________________________________

2

3. Alliance Française Bahrain

4. Pullman

What is the name of the new cinema brand coming to Juffair this month? ______________________________________________

AZ-220x295.pdf

1. Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort

2:39 PM

Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

AD Seek

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!

1. www.bahrainthismonth.com

2.

3.

4.

August 2016 109

tarotscope SCORPIO October 22 – November 21

LEO

Balancing the books has always been a priority for you, although there is little to suggest it is a pursuit you enjoy.

However, this month you may be called upon to assist

July 21 – August 21

someone else as they come to terms with financial hardship. Do your best

There is a stranger lurking in the background

better about yourself afterwards. You will also need to put your diplomatic

of your life waiting to come forward and throw

Card of the Month — The Fool

to be patient and put your skills to good use; you will feel a whole lot hat on to really get this right, so there’s plenty to keep you occupied.

a spanner into the smooth workings of your

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21

current turmoil-free existence. Most probably

colleague at work who has caught your eye makes a

it’s a male with a jealous eye and less than honourable intentions towards you and you

This month you will be in for a nice surprise when a new welcome approach. Although others around you may suggest you think twice, you should ignore the advice and leap in – both feet first. There is a wonderful opportunity here and you should not hold back. Over the last few months there could well have been a feeling of

should take care when having any dealings

regret on the emotional front and this could be the start of something

with him. The saying a wolf in sheep’s clothing

Card of the Month — The Empress

romantically rewarding.

is quite apt in this gentleman’s case.

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 It’s all fun and games for you this month as you reap the

Card of the Month — The Two of Pentacles

benefits of past endeavours and try to get both your financial and emotional houses in order. On the money

For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

front, wise investment and a prudent sale will leave you with a sizeable mountain of cash to play with – but be sensible. Someone close to you may try and take advantage of your new-gained wealth, so watch closely the intentions of those nearest.

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

Card of the Month — Judgement

A welcome and not insubstantial cash windfall has tumbled

AQUARIUS January 22 – February 20

into your lap and you’re wondering what to do first. This

This month you will be taking a significant gamble as you

month you will find yourself tempted to go wild and raid the

decide to throw caution to the wind and pursue an ambition

shops or perhaps even go on that extravagant cruise you always

that has possessed you for some time. A general feeling of

promised yourself. However, you should also consider the long-term

dissatisfaction and perhaps even a dangerous malaise has set into your

benefits of choosing investment ahead of a spending spree, since, were

life, distorting your usually buoyant character, and you are in need of

you to be honest with yourself, you might see you are not in need of that

some kind of stimulation. Taking a risk is one thing but taking a

new wardrobe quite yet.

calculated risk is surely a more sensible option.

Card of the Month — The Hermit

Card of the Month — The Knight of Wands

LIBRA September 22 – October 21

PISCES February 21 – March 20

Things often don’t turn out as you imagine or even plan

You’ve been forced to weather a torrid few months and,

them. However, even the most disappointing of events can

although there is unlikely to be a noticeable change,

often deliver hope and this is an adage you should apply to

things are beginning to pick up. The rejuvenating effects

your own situation in August. If you had your heart set on a visit or

of a much-needed holiday will go some way to getting you back on

meeting with a loved one, you might find that a last-minute change of

course, although any recent trip may have left you with a bad taste in

plan could leave you deflated. Still, there is an important long-term

your mouth because of a travelling companion. It would seem a side to

reason for such a setback and you should expect a positive outcome

their character you did not warm to chose a most inappropriate time to

from what seemed bad news.

show itself.

Card of the Month — The Wheel of Fortune

Card of the Month — The Knight of Cups

110 August 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index ARIES March 21 – April 20

Fashion & Footwear

Ahmed Zayani & Sons (RAM) . . . . . . . . . 64

Sometimes vanity gets to us all and, in doing so, it often

Call it Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . . . . 69

shows up another side of our personality to those we love

Centrepoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

EK. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15,17

Hush Puppies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

PUMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3

First Motors (Hyundai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Sketchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Mohd Jalal & Sons (Suzuki) . . . . . . . . . . . 71

and know best, as well as reminding them that no one is perfect. This month, pride becomes your keeper and you will demonstrate that trusting in someone, whose words have flattered you more than you deserve, leaves a close friendship in tatters. You cannot always be right and, no matter what others tell you, humility is still the

Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons (Nissan) . . . . . . . 21

mother of all virtues.

Financial Institutions

Card of the Month — The Ace of Pentacles

Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . . 27

Others

Citibank N.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

4sale4you (Gulf Beauty Expo 2016) . . 29

TAURUS April 21 – May 20

Al Tawfeek Maintenance Services . . 45

The harvest has come early for you this year, Taurus, as you

Hotels & Serviced Residences

Alliance Francaise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

purchase but just be sure you check out all your options before you

Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Bahrain City Centre . . . . 57, Belly Band

make the final decision on what you finally buy. Your recent health

Novotel Al Dana Resort . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Dream Makers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC,1

initiatives will be paying off and you will start to feel a great deal better

Ramee Baisan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Jeeves of Belgravia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

about yourself as the pounds begin to tumble.

Ramee Monroe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Joz Salon & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Card of the Month — The Three of Pentacles

Starwood Hotels (Le Meridien) . . . . . . 6

Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

The Domain Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Life Insurance Corp. (International) . 50

are subject to a windfall that, although partly expected, is nevertheless a welcome bonus. There is scope for a new

GEMINI May 21 – June 20 You could be feeling under the weather this month and there is a strong indication that what you really need is a short break. Even if you have been on holiday recently, family pressures could have quickly brought you down to earth with a nasty

Bahrain Cinema Company . . . . . . . . . 55

Mukta A2 Cinemas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Jewellery & Watches

Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Ambassador Stores (Alba) . . . . . . . . . 53

Shell Fisheries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Sharif Group (Rochas) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Restaurants & Cafés

bang and there is every indication a brief escape might be the best solution. So, throw a few essentials in a bag, take some emergency leave

Medical & Dental Services

Abd El Wahab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

from work and hop on the first plane, train or automobile out of town.

Middle East Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Brazil Grill Co. Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Card of the Month — The Page of Wands

Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

CANCER June 21 – July 20 It’s often hard going when you try to balance an established relationship with the pressures of a demanding job, and this is the very dilemma facing you this month. Both a partner and family members will be feeling neglected, as you seem to be putting all of your efforts into forwarding your career without leaving much room or time for those who care about you. It is a policy you would be wise to change, as there is certain to come a time when you will again need those closest to you.

Card of the Month — The Sun

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Chris Hemsworth

Jennifer Lopez

Pres. Barack Obama

FAMOUS LEO THIS MONTH

Motoring

Reem Al Bawadi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Ahmed Zayani & Sons (Dodge) . . . . . . . . 73

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . 51

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets ● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets ● 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 Red House Marketing, 17 813-777 or email: bystander@redhousemarketing.com.

August 2016 111

lastword

Old Man’s Rant

GEG HOPKINS We live in an age of absolute denial mimicking the ostrich.

Nobody but nobody wants to take responsibility for anything, no matter how petty or terroristic.

Besides, by and large, many pretend it doesn’t really happen, or if so, always to someone else.

112 August 2016

Realistically and the planet’s great dilemma, there is just too much no-value stifled fodder on Earth, which we all know deep down, seriously needs addressing.

The oblivious brigade of appeasers (who dictate the precedent) pontificate; ‘Aw, leave them alone; they are entitled to their deviance, cubic metre of air, Neanderthal existence and sizeable squadron of offspring’, endlessly support this self-helpless pluralism.

We throw massive so-called development funds into their sewers, most of which so often gets filtered away by crooks. Regardless, the bottom line is that nothing changes and no advances are ever really made, other than numbers doing exactly the same all over again.

These do-gooder luvvies have exacerbated the penned ‘civilised world’s’ woes. But who decides to cut the umbilicals? Well, human nature will decide, and we are headlong into the abyss already with terrorism the norm and folk by and large anaesthetised to it these days. It is sick both ways. Main-stream media in full denial reports a hatchet job on a wife in Berlin as an ‘immigrant crime of passion’ while totally ignoring the thousands frequently massacred in other atrocities from whence they came. It is all to save face within their own oblivion of this bubbling armageddon.

After all, heinous, hideous religious atrocities can also be termed ‘crimes of passion’.

As fodder for the Illuminati, we bury our heads in inanity, such as Facebook or Android games; ‘click like and share – once you see the answer’. The more inane the more it trends. Oh – kill me now! Bizarrely, no matter how ridiculous the scenario is, so few look inwards, thus it is always a CIA baby-killer plot or we perceive this skulduggery and conspiracy as beyond one’s existence – ‘What to do habibi’? To opine such bunkum can be done in safety, but suggest that certain cultures or beliefs carry a mandate within gets one labelled a Nazi, a racist, an infidel or whatever else suits and cannot be done without fear. Sure, the

BBC chooses sides and often exacerbates situations to the Nth degree, but ‘they didn’t start it’.

Perhaps an electronic past-time is the answer to all our woes? ‘Pokémon Go’ seems to have phallic heritage by name (doesn’t everything?) and occupying our very existence, hopefully replacing the obsession with horizontal jogging which ostensibly dominated our lives before it.

By all accounts ‘Da’esh’ are slicker with the mobile phones than most and hypocritically depend wholly on the net, but do you think less heads and hands will be severed as its psychopathic members settle down to take on ‘Pokémon Go’ rather than using the technology solely to spread oppression and fear.

Those who have thieved under Sharia Law can’t speak out, because they have no fingers to manipulate their phones. However, there’s hope; any ‘Pokémon Go’ mellowing might even see successful judicial appeals and players appearing sporting stitch-marks around their wrists.

The world is in real fear and no happy ending. A gynaecologist examining a ventriloquist and being taken by surprise is shock, not fear – there is a huge difference. It is subliminal fear calling the shots in the world today and politicians are just headless chickens without a clue what to do, and besides, they spend most of their waking day feeding their egos, scheming and twisting, planning the next box office thriller‘Hatchet Jobs’ rather than doing what they were elected to do. You can’t make it up, the events and shifts since mass immigration and Brexit are so bizarre, it’s like we have become another planet. In fact, it is all so dark and dishonest from Washington to Beijing when politicians should be the most “honest” beings on Earth and for the people.

Fear creates blanket Stockholm Syndrome and we are exposed to potential and extreme anarchy within nations with religious and racial disharmony screaming at us, but it is all ok, we now have the viral pandemic of ‘Pokémon Go’ to take our minds off it in our desperation to be numbed by entertainment.

Fear not; ‘Pokémon Go’ now begins the extermination of the human race by senseless traffic accidents, each becoming legitimate appeasement as an acceptable binding clause, like manslaughter through drunk or drug infested driving. Next month we’ll investigate a new phenomenon; ‘Poke-Pervs’, those depraved men charging into some lady’s bedroom, mobile phone in one hand with the um..er.. limp excuse that; ‘I was after a “Pokémon” Your Honour’. ‘Well at least half of that’, berates the judge.

But then what else is this column other than a channel of so-called entertainment? Hypocrisy – we love you! www.bahrainthismonth.com

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