Bahrain This Month - August 2017

DINING | WHAT’S NEW | GADGETS

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Happenings

• A Passage to Bollywood • Rishi Kapoor Live!

India in Bahrain

Ferrari Test Drive

Celebrating the 70th Independence Day

A Tremendous Trio

Back to School

Stylish SUVs

Best Deals Around Town

Hottest Models on Offer

August 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 8

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

Issue 240

Contents August 2017 22

COVER STORY A Passage to Bollywood

Watch the Indian cinema culture come alive in this unique musical.

HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of August 2017:

20

20

Bedroom Makeover

Be the lucky winner with City Centre Bahrain’s new campaign.

24

An Inspirational Film

Enjoy Stairway to Heaven, a documentary about the Saladin minbar.

26 An

Evening with Rishi Kapoor

The Indian actor will perform excerpts from his book, Khullam Khulla.

28

30

AFTER DARK

28 Sandi

Thom and Friends Live

A fantastic night of live music for a worthy cause.

30

INTERVIEWS The Big Reveal!

The Diplomat Bahrain’s new GM, Kosta Kourotsidis, unveils the grand plans for the hotel.

32

33

48

Pierre Makes His Mark

This hospitality industry veteran talks about his new role as GM of Fraser Suites Seef.

FEATURES India in Bahrain 33-53

A special supplement commemorating India’s 70th Independence Day and bilateral relations between the two nations.

56

60 Bystander This issue’s Bystander pages captured major happenings on the island including the French National Bastille Day celebrations, Prince Michael of Kent’s visit and El Gato Negro concert.

Our snappers were also seen at various other gatherings, such as STACK: The Lego Fans Event and Gulf Hotel’s Tropical Nights.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Back to School 56-58

BTM brings you a detailed guide to get you and your children ready for the new term, including the best deals around the island for school essentials and trendy add-ons.

Motoring – SUVs 59-61

BTM rounds up the most popular models making headlines across the globe, from bulking beasts to cool, compact crossovers. Discover the various options available to suit every taste and budget.

August 2017 3

Issue 240

Contents August 2017 Motoring

62-63

A Tremendous Trio

Dick Potter took a sensational selection of Italian stallions for a spin around the UAE. 64 A

62

Stunning and Powerful Drive

Charlie Holding puts the Audi RS 3 Sedan through its paces.

66 The

Beast from Green Hell

The new Mercedes AMG GT R – developed straight from the racetrack on to the road.

68 Members

Moving Forward

Euro Motors held its first annual BMW M Club member meeting.

70-71 Motoring

News and Launches

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

Downtime

74-75 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town

76 Music: Top Tunes Games: The hot games of the month 78 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 79 Apps: Essential apps 80 Movies: New releases

77 Computer

64

80

Dining

81

Desert Paradise

Behnaz Sanjana reviews Keizo’s Asian fusion cuisine at Al Areen Palace Hotel & Spa. 82

Fun, Flavourful Fare

Bennigan’s menu features something for everyone and offers great value for money.

84

Spoilt for Choice

Take a trip around some of the world’s favourite cuisines at Kolors restaurant.

86

81

89

Luxury Has a New Residence

Explore a plethora of dining and entertainment facilities at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. 88

Heroes of Hospitality

Meet the two experts working behind the scenes at Atiram Premier’s dining and leisure outlets.

89

Table Hopping

Showcase

What’s New: Must-have products 91-105 Marketplace: Latest products and services 106-107 Business Bites 90

90

74

Regulars

110 Tarotscope 111

AD Index WIN

112 WIN

75 www.bahrainthismonth.com

77 August 2017 5

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THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month August 2017

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

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

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

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

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

COVER Cover Picture:

A Passage to Bollywood George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

DINING | WHAT’S NEW | GADGETS

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Happenings

• A Passage to Bollywood

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

• Rishi Kapoor Live!

India in Bahrain

Ferrari Test Drive

Celebrating the 70th Independence Day

A Tremendous Trio

Back to School

Stylish SUVs

Best Deals Around Town

Hottest Models on Offer

August 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 8

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Welcome to the August edition, which finds those of us still on the island sweltering and counting down the days to the return of the cooler weather.

The lazy days of summer mean special camps to keep the kids busy during the long school holidays and the remaining acts of the Bahrain Summer Festival. I’m particularly looking forward to seeing A Passage to Bollywood and, keeping up with the Indian theme, a performance by film star turned author Rishi Kapoor promises to be a night to remember.

Rishi is featured in this month’s special India in Bahrain supplement, celebrating the sub-continent’s 70th Independence Day anniversary.

Also in the supplement, the Indian Ambassador, His Excellency Alok Kumar Sinha, says ties between the two countries are stronger than ever and the new embassy is almost ready to open. There are words of wisdom from hospitality industry specialists and we meet two very different Indian artists – Preeti Rana and Aatif Anwar Sayed. There’s also plenty of news from the local Indian community and a round-up of festivals to tempt if you’re thinking of a trip to India Other interviewees this month show it’s been all change in the hotel sector of late. Kosta Kourotsidis is the new man at the helm of the Diplomat Radisson BLU Hotel, Residence & Spa and Pierre Vasseur has taken the top job at Fraser Suites Seef, Bahrain.

In the motoring section, our annual SUV consumer report takes a look at the latest offerings in the market. Charlie Holding gives his verdict on the new Audi RS 3 Sedan and Dick Potter tells of an envy-inducing trip to Dubai to get behind the wheel of not one but three new Ferraris!

In our second special report, Behnaz Sanjana advises getting a jump on the back-to-school preparations and offers tips to help the new academic year get off to a smooth start.

The dining section features a review of Keizo’s Asian fusion cuisine and there’s the regular round-up of news from the food and beverage industry.

As always the Downtime section features information on the latest films, music, gadgets and more to keep you occupied if you want to stay out of the heat.

So, however you’re spending August, don’t leave home without Bahrain This Month, your guide to a great way of life.

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Connect with Bahrain This Month: Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

Nightlife

August 2017 7

bystander

HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre & Dr Khalid Fakhro

Bastille Day

HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, hosted a reception to commemorate Bastille Day at the Sofitel Bahrain. Top officials, dignitaries and invited guests attended the event.

The cake-cutting ceremony Sherine, Marine & Leila

HE Simon Martin, Shaikh Salman Al Khalifa, HE Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al Subah, HE Dr Abdullah bin Abdulmalik Al Shaikh & HE Ahmed Rashid Khatabi

Cynthia, Sadiq Dawani & Nacira

Alexandra, Anna & Sophie

Urs, Bernd, Boris & Bill

8 August 2017

Zee & Nataliia

Alexander, Sidvah & Gaurav

Rodolphe, Khalifa & Hisham

Jalila, Abdulrahman Juma & Alberto

Basten

HE William Roebuck

Lilly, Mwai, Esky & Astrid

Filippo, Francoise & HE Domenico Bellato

Vice Adm Kevin Donegan & HE Dhafer Alumran

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

El Gato Negro Concert As part of the Bahrain Summer Festival series of events, Axel Matrod (aka El Gato Negro) performed at the Cultural Hall.

The concert at the Cultural Hall

Dana, Samah, Shaikha Hala, Hameeda & Shouq

Razan & Dr Reda

Pauline & Raphaelle

Carlos, Chantal, Susie, Shafeeka & Adriana

Aysha & Leila

Domenique, Jean Philippe & Elie

Noora, Aysha & Mariam

STACK Lego Fans Event

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority launched the STACK Lego Fans event at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

HE Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, HE Zayed Alzayani & Anton with children playing with Legos at the event Jamie, Julie & Ana Maria

Ebrahim, Hussain & Alaa

12 August 2017

Yousef & Abdulla

Hadeer, Zainab, Mariam & Prabha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Motors welcomed HRH Prince Michael of Kent on his official visit to its Jaguar Land Rover showroom. HE Euro Motors Royal Visit Euro Simon Martin, British Ambassador, dignitaries, prominent businessmen and invited guests also attended the event.

Khalid Al Zayani, HRH Prince Michael of Kent & Stephen

HE Alfred Simms-Protz, Chris & HE Domenico Bellato

Ron & Anna Marie

Robin

Amin & HE William Roebuck

Mazen Alumran, Sophie & Peter

Emiliya & Mark

HE Nor Huda

Stephen & Paul

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & Mazen Alumran

Samantha, Gavin & Dan

Ron & Garfield

Peter

HE Simon Martin, HRH Prince Michael of Kent & Khalid Al Zayani

Joss & Sam

Nasser & Alex

Eid Brunch Sofitel Bahrain held an Eid brunch at Saraya restaurant.

Robert

Vian & Tara

14 August 2017

Eman, Aziae, Salam & Nawfal

Latifa & Dr Sara

Arwa & Hala

Habiba, Mahmood & Farida

Leena, Lamia & Aksana

Anabelle & baby

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Eva, Siddiqa, Fatima, Michaela & Romina

Eva Graf Art Eva Graf hosted an open art studio and Iftar buffet.

Alena, Marie, Eva, Esme, Isabelle & Heni

Tim, Eva & Marie

Paula & HE Nor Huda

Eva & Perwin

Sigi & Sarina

Delphine

Eva, Bahjan & Paula

Eid Celebration The Chargé d’Affaires of the Brunei Embassy, HE Nor Huda, hosted an Eid party at her residence.

Riza, Emin, HE Nor Huda, Johari, Mavu, Marie & Eva

Sara, Dr Siti, Dr Mohammed, Hana & Zahra

Pat, Jnp, Wani, HE Nor Huda, Haithai & Nilanthini

16 August 2017

Abdul Manaf, Abdul Latif & Hartini

Basheer, Ahmed, Ashraf, HE Nor Huda, Johari & Jaseer

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & HE Qi Zhenhong

Majidah, Musle, HE Nor Huda & Hadi

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bystander

Bossa Nova Opening

Bossa Nova restaurant held an official launch party at its premises in Adliya.

Ricardo, Rafi & Perera

Mwai, Vivien & Susie

George, Pamela & Matija

Hugh, Ahmed & Pierre

Ahmed, Kay & Paul

Paula, Irma, Dee & Didar

Thamina & Mwai

Anna & Ab

Nasser & Hanadi

Damian, Warren & Khalid

Eid Brunch The Malaysian Ambassador’s wife, Wani, hosted an Eid brunch at their residence.

Retnani, Ratna, Wani & Maya

Anne & Retnani

18 August 2017

Evy & Wita

Deanna & Yukiko

Nabila & Mandi

Rehab & Maya

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August 2017. HAPPENINGS USE YOUR BRAIN When? August 2 Event? Quiz Venue? The British Club It’s time for another BSPCA Quiz.

This event costs just BD5 per person to enter, so round up a few friends and make up a team (six maximum) for a fun-filled evening. There will be great prizes available as well as a raffle alongside the quiz. All proceeds will go towards running the AWC Shelter and funding the CNR scheme for cats and dogs. It starts at 7.30pm.

Call Kate on 37 733-415.

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

Call 17 298-777.

FUN FOR YOUNGSTERS When? Ongoing-August 24 Event? Summer Camp Venue? Cheeky Monkey, Saar This leading children’s activity centre is hosting a fun summer camp. The month-long event is split into different themes and activities each week to ensure youngsters have a variety of exciting things to do. Each theme involves music and dancing, arts and crafts, messy session, storytelling and dress up day. It runs from 9.30am-12.30pm and costs BD35 per week.

Call 17 262-966 or 32 322-966.

YOUTH CITY 2030 When? Ongoing-August 24 Event? Education/ Summer Activities Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre This year’s event will be a platform for creativity amongst youngsters. As well as a packed events agenda there are workshops for science, art and technology, interior design, fashion design, drawing, sketching, illustration, sculpture and pottery making. It is free to attend and runs from 9am-9pm.

Call 17 114-146.

BEDROOM MAKEOVER When? Ongoing-August 5 Event? Shopping Venue? City Centre Bahrain One lucky shopper will win a full bedroom makeover with City Centre Bahrain’s ‘Home Furnishing’ campaign. Visitors spending BD30 or more at any retail outlet will receive a chance to win a BD3,000 makeover from home furnishing outlets at the mall. During the campaign, furnishing outlets will have special discounts and will offer customers a chance to double their winning chances for 20 August 2017

the grand prize.

Visit www.citycentrebahrain.com

GONE WITH THE WIND When? Throughout August Event? Kite Surfing Course Venue? Novotel If you’re interested in learning how to kite surf, this is the course for you. Safety procedures are always taught before any exercise and are taken into consideration for each lesson. The International Sailing Federation (ISAF) certifies all the instructors and the school runs according to ISAF standards. This means you will receive a licence at the end of your course, which states the level you have attained. You will also be able to continue your progression and start to train to race and join one of the many regattas held in Bahrain and around the world.

Equipment, gear and refreshments are provided. Prices vary according to the package you choose and classes are available from 6am-9am and from 4pm-7pm.

Email reservations@beachculture.me

DANCING FOR PRINCESSES When? Ongoing-August 31 Event? Dance Camp Venue? Victoria Dance Designed for dancers aged three to six years, each lesson will allow your child to explore a different Disney princess though dance, arts and crafts and story time. Kids can come dressed up as their favourite princess and, at the end of the Tuesday session, they can enjoy a royal tea party. It costs BD25 a week.

Email contactus@victoriadance.com Call 17 262-966 or 32 322-966. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

COOKING DEMONSTRATION When? August 2 (and every following Wednesday) Event? Cooking Class Venue? ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands Join this leading hotel for a series of intimate cooking demonstrations with Chef Mac and learn the secrets of cooking the five East Asian cuisines featured at WU Restaurant and Lounge.

Lunch and complimentary beverages will follow each class.

It costs BD19 and starts at 11am.

Call 16 000-111.

A PASSAGE TO BOLLYWOOD When? August 3 Event? Entertainment Venue? Cultural Hall All the elements that make Bollywood culture so unique come alive in this musical presented by Ashley Lobo and the Navdhara India Dance Theatre. This experience is akin to watching a live-action Bollywood film on stage. It seamlessly blends beloved classics and modern hits with a gripping plot that runs the gamut from high drama and exciting action to passionate romance and colourful dance numbers. The show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost BD2, BD5 and BD10.

Email info@culture.gov.bh or call 17 112-114.

HOMAGE TO THAI KINGS When? August 5 Event? Musical Venue? Cultural Hall One of Thailand’s leading pianists and pioneers in contemporary classical music, virtuoso musician and composer Nat Yontararak, offers audiences a different perspective and understanding of the Thai people and their unique culture. There will also be colourful dance numbers performed by traditional Thai dancers. It starts at 8pm and is free to attend.

Visit www.bahrainsummer.bh

THE ART OF COOKING When? August 5 (and every following Saturday) Event? Cooking Class Venue? Gulf Hotel Bahrain The Art of Cooking class is designed for people with busy lifestyles who have a passion for food. The hotel offers hands-on opportunities and demonstrations, from the building blocks of cooking to delicious and exclusive mouth watering menus. Professional chefs lead the class.

It costs BD18 and starts at 10.30am.

Call 17 713-000.

AERIAL FOR BEGINNERS

22 August 2017

back and neck-aches, using traction, and rediscover yoga poses you have practised many times before. Bring your sense of humour, inner child and a willingness to break away from your fears.

The first class runs from 10am-11.30am and is for ladies only.

The second class runs from 6.30pm-8pm and is for men and women.

When? Ongoing-August 5 Event? Shopping Venue? City Centre Bahrain E Visit www. citycentrebahrain.com When? Ongoing-August 24 Event? Summer Camp Venue? Cheeky Monkey, Saar E Call 17 262-966 or 32 322-966.

When? Ongoing-August 24 Event? Education/ Summer Activities Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Call 17 114-146.

When? Throughout August Event? Kite Surfing Course Venue? Novotel E Email reservations@ beachculture.me When? Ongoing-August 31 Event? Dance Camp Venue? Victoria Dance E Call 17 262-966 or 32 322-966.

When? August 2 (and every following Wednesday) Event? Cooking Class Venue? ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands E Call 16 000-111.

When? August 3 Event? Entertainment:A Passage to Bollywood Venue? Cultural Hall E Email info@culture.gov.bh or call 17 112-114.

When? August 5 Event? Musical: Homage to Thai Kings Venue? Cultural Hall E Visit www. bahrainsummer.bh

When? August 6 (then every following Monday and Wednesday) Event? Aerial Class Venue? Namaste Bahrain If you have been dying to try to fly on an aerial hammock, this course is for you. By slowing down and teaching you how to breathe, secure yourself in the hammock, manage existing injuries or conditions and learn to trust and let go, you will be able to fly in no time.

Your body will be supported by a yoga swing suspended from the ceiling. This is a great way to heal

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

No previous aerial, acrobatic or yoga experience is necessary. It is not recommended for individuals with high blood pressure or cataracts, pregnant women or anyone for whom hanging upside down could cause medical complications or discomfort.

It costs BD50 for five classes.

Call 17 591-565.

When? August 5 (and every following Saturday) Event? Cooking Class Venue? Gulf Hotel Bahrain E Call 17 713-000.

When? August 6 (then every following Monday and Wednesday) Event? Aerial Class Venue? Namaste Bahrain E Call 17 591-565. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings

LEARN FRENCH When? August 6-29 Event? Conversation Classes Venue? Alliance Française Bahrain

FEEL THE BURN

Enhance your Frenchspeaking skills.

Classes are available over four weeks for adults from A2 to B1 level. The course costs BD100 and takes place Sundays and Tuesdays from 6.30pm-8.30pm.

Call 17 683-295.

TAKE THE PLUNGE When? August 7 (and every following Monday and Wednesday) Event? Swimming Classes Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain

When? August 11-12 Event? Fitness Class Venue? REPS Fitness Studios Les Mills Body Attack Initial Module Training is a sports-inspired cardio workout session aimed at women who wish to teach this type of class. No experience is necessary, as training will be provided on how to coach and use the correct techniques, however, participants need to be affiliated with a licensed club.

The course takes place over two days and then participants have to send a film clip of themselves in eight weeks to become fully certified in the programme. This event is for ladies only, costs BD102 and starts at 6pm.

Visit www.lesmills.com

HIYA BEYA WORKSHOP There are many reasons why you should learn to swim – the most important being it could save your life.

Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental death, so being able to swim is an essential life skill. Swimming is lots of fun for people of all ages and children especially love getting in the water and enjoying themselves. Classes start at 4pm for ages five to seven years, 5pm for ages eight to 11 years and 6pm for adults. It costs BD40 a month for members and BD50 a month for non-members.

Call 17 531-122.

When? August 26 Event? Workshop Venue? Bahrain Fort Site Museum Enkiro Club for Children celebrates Eid Al Adha in style. Kids spend a joyful day at the seashore reciting the Hiya Beya song. Additional workshops are organised, including how to decorate a Hiya Beya basket. It takes place at 4.30pm, is suitable for ages eight to 12 years and is in both English and Arabic.

Visit www.culture.gov.bh

AN INSPIRATIONAL FILM When? August 8 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Stairway to Heaven is a documentary about the Saladin minbar (pulpit) and its final restoration in the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, as well as how the consequences of a tragic event have come to symbolise the renaissance of Islamic art around the world. The 24 August 2017

screening begins at 7pm and is priced at BD10+; the ticket’s value can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening.

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

When? August 6-29 Event? Conversation Classes Venue? Alliance Française Bahrain E Call 17 683-295.

When? August 7 (and every following Monday and Wednesday) Event? Swimming Classes Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain E Call 17 531-122.

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

E Call 39 574-795.

When? August 8 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 11-12 Event? Fitness Class Venue? REPS Fitness Studios E Visit www.lesmills.com When? August 14 Event? Bahrain Writers‘ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant Enjoy an evening discussing and reciting poetry with fellow enthusiasts at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? August 21 Event? Bahrain Writers‘ Creative Workshop Venue? Umami Restaurant Enjoy an evening discussing creative writing with fellow writers in a fun and informal setting at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? August 26 Event? Workshop Venue? Bahrain Fort Site Museum E Visit www.culture.gov.bh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings

AN EVENING WITH RISHI KAPOOR

When? September 1 Event? Entertainment Venue? Crowne Plaza Convention Centre Rishi Kapoor will appear in Bahrain to the delight of his fans.

The Indian actor, producer and director will perform excerpts from his book – Khullam Khulla, and delve deeper into the narrative, providing one backstory after another to piece together larger incidents in his life.

‘Khullam Khulla – Live with Rishi Kapoor’ is not just a rib-tickler.

26 August 2017

Given that Rishi has a tendency to veer off from one story to tell another, it is a conversation he wants to have, which spans the people, and films that have mattered to him.

Rishi has worn a lot of hats (and sweatshirts) in his almost fivedecade-long career. From being a pudgy fellow who ripped his pants to becoming the star of several blockbusters, he has also dabbled with production and directing.

He became an overnight sensation with his first film as a leading man (Bobby, 1973), and

carved a niche for himself with a string of romantic musicals in an era known for its angst-ridden films.

The songs he lip-synched are the bread and butter of Indian radio stations even today. After a brief hiatus in the 1990s he returned to become one of the finest actors in mainstream Hindi cinema with powerhouse performances in films like Do Dooni Chaar, D-Day, Agneepath and others.

Characteristically candid, Khullam Khulla is as up close and personal an autobiography as any fan could have hoped for. He writes about growing up in the shadow of a legendary father, skipping school to act in Mera Naam Joker, the workings of the musical hits of the era, an encounter with Dawood Ibrahim, his leading ladies (their working relationship, the gossip and the frisson that was sometimes real), his approach to his craft, his battle with clinical depression, and more.

Wholly aware of his lineage and the astounding legacy it leaves, Rishi made his literary debut by co-authoring Khullam Khulla with Meena Iyer, to trace the origin and magnificence of this ‘first family’ of the Hindi film industry.

The story is insightful and follows his thoughts – not chronology – in recounting episodes of his life with him playing the proverbial guide to the Kapoor family tree and the family’s lengthy relationship with the film industry, which spans 90 years.

The book was launched in spectacular fashion, with Kapoor

taking to the stage to recite passages. This was the starting point for the live show. He delved into the narrative and with audiovisual assistance, he substantiated his storytelling, often breaking into laughter at how hilarious or ridiculous some of his life’s chapters have been. There was no script, he said; rather, he had put down pointers of what could be covered in the 90-minute show and he thrived on the impromptu nature of the format.

It is one thing to write an autobiography, and a whole different ball game to enact his and the industry’s ludicrous workings. One thing Rishi has always had is an opinion – one that he has never been shy of voicing.

Tickets cost BD100 for VVIP, BD50 for VIP, BD25 for premium and BD15 for regular and can be purchased from the hotel and all VIVA branches.

Call 17 531-122. www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdark happenings

LIVE AND LOUD

NAVY FAVOURITE

When? August 4 Event? Must Live Venue? Polo Gastropub Local favourites Ali Alasfoor, on vocals/ rhythm guitars, Mohammed Alkooheji on bass and Mahmood Al-Ansari on drums bring their unique take on hard rock and heavy melodic metal to the stage at Polo’s. Their performances are always energetic and great fun, the ideal way to ramp up the weekend.

Entrance, as always, is free.

Call 17 725-000.

When? August 11 Event? DJ Loso Live Venue? Club Liv World Renowned DJ Oso Loso hails from Camden, New Jersey by way of Clarksville, Tennessee, USA. He got his start at a small venue, Club Upscale, in Clarksville in 2005; a night that changed his life forever. Over the years, he’s perfected his craft and has developed excellent techniques in cueing, equalisation, slip-querying, audio mixing and manipulation of sound sources. He plays a range of genres including hip-hop, R&B, dancehall and Billboard Top 40. He has played alongside the likes of Estelle Darlings, Paul Wall, Tommy Davidson and Legendary R&B group Silk. Now living in the Middle East, he has amassed a loyal following across the region and is particularly popular at US Navy events.

Ladies get in free, men pay BD5.

Call 66 600-025 / 66 620-220.

SUMMER SOUNDS When? August 4 Event? Plugged Venue? Club XS Summer in Bahrain just got all the more thrilling as Om’s brings to you a one of a kind night that you will definitely remember. Dance the night away to the beats of DJette Arp and DJ Le@h and let the music flow over you with sounds of deep house, tech house, deep tech and progressive techno.

Ladies get in free, guys pay BD5.

Call 33 085-400 / 33 544-251.

SINGING FOR THEIR SUPPER When? August 26 Event? Sandi Thom and Friends Live Venue? Upstairs Downstairs A fantastic night of live music, unlimited drinks and a buffet of some wonderful food all to raise money for a very worthy cause; the animals at the Dog Father Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre.

The Scottish singer-songwriter will be joined by local musician Ibantuta who will open the night with his traditional Arabic sounds. He’ll be followed by Sandi Thom, a raffle with lots of wonderful prizes up for grabs and then a DJ set by a local favourite offering the chance to dance the night away while raising funds to help our furry friends.

Entry is BD25 on the door.

Call 17 713-093.

When? August 4 Event? Beat Beach Venue? Coral Bay

28 August 2017

Unlimited drinks for BD4.

E Call 17 211-133.

When? Mon, Tues, Fri Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Torino Restaurant & Lounge Unlimited selected beverages from 6pm-1am.

E Call 34 091-533.

When? Wednesdays Event? Salsa Ladies Night Venue? Meisei Three free glasses of sparkling for ladies from 8pm-10.30pm as well as a Latin dance class with the guys from Salsabor. Entry for men is BD7 including two drinks.

E Call 17 007-770.

When? Thursdays Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Bushido Three free dinks for ladies from 9pm to midnight. Free entry for all.

E Call 17 583-555.

When? Fridays Events? Ladies After Brunch Party Venue? Wembley Keep the brunch vibe going with three free drinks for girls from 5pm-7pm.

E Call 36 558-384.

When? August 4 Event? Must Live Venue? Polo Gastropub E Call 17 725-000.

When? August 4 Event? Plugged Venue? Club XS E Call 33 085-400 / 33 544-251.

WET AND WILD

Beat Beach Music Festival returns with another great event. The longest music festival on the island is about to kick-off with international DJs from Europe. There’ll be 12 hours of non-stop music and two dance-floors playing different sounds from hip-hop, R&B and reggae to house, EDM, techno and more. Add to this fire dancers, LED dancers and a massive light show and you can expect a fantastic day and night . Performers confirmed are DIM, from Greece, VJMP3, Jackson, Riddler, Linecolada, Sasy, Fawazo, Mellow x, YoFo,

When? Sat, Sun, Mon Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Big Texas BBQ, Best Western Plus The Olive

When? August 4 Event? Beat Beach Venue? Coral Bay E Call 66 331-366 / 66 302-112.

When? August 11 Event? DJ Loso Live Venue? Club Liv E Call 66 600-025 / 66 620-220.

Kurush and Haman .

Pre-sale tickets BD12, available at Coral Bay reception, BD15 on the door.

Call 66 331-366 / 66 302-112.

When? August 26 Event? Sandi Thom and Friends Live Venue? Upstairs Downstairs E Call 17 713-093.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

American Mission Hospital in Manama and the branches in Saar and Amwaj have been awarded with Diamond Status by NHRA- Bahrain.

AMH has achieved the highest level of accreditation by NHRA in all the 3 branches. This accreditation decision represents the highest level of accreditation that can be given to a hospital in Bahrain and shows the hospital’s substantial conformance to the National Health Regulatory Authority standards.

INTERVIEWS

THE BIG REVEAL! APPLE SHARMA

ALSO THIS MONTH: 32 PIERRE MAKES HIS MARK

One of the most popular hotels in Bahrain is getting a facelift. The new general manager at its helm, Kosta Kourotsidis, unveils the grand plans for the property.

Kosta Kourotsidis

H

aving recently taken over the top job at The Diplomat Radisson BLU Hotel, Residence & Spa, this German-Greek national has come a long way from when he first entered the hospitality industry at 17 as a trainee.

“I moved my way forward as a waiter, then started my apprenticeship for three years, working in several departments – housekeeping, engineering, kitchen, front office and accounting – till I graduated,” says Kosta.

“I chose to specialise in food and beverage; so I started my career as a banqueting supervisor, moving onward to food and beverage manager, mainly in Europe – Germany and Ireland. Then in 2005, I wanted to gain more international experience and I came to the Middle East.”

Having worked all over the region, from Egypt to Jordan, Lebanon and Libya, Kosta was managing the Radisson BLU Hotel Downtown Dubai before coming to Bahrain. He has been with the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group since 2000. He says his biggest motivation has been the company’s growth along with the support he has received for his personal career 30 August 2017

development, which has given him an exciting opportunity to run another Rezidor property.

“I’m proud to be in such a prestigious hotel in Bahrain,” he says. “The role, firstly, will be to have a successful refurbishment of the property. The main task will be business development and, of course, repositioning the hotel with an entirely new design.”

Kosta seems ready for the job and unfazed by the competition. He believes the key to success is the right product along with service philosophy, saying: “Since The Diplomat is a landmark in Bahrain and very well known, and the majority of our employees have been here for many years, I believe this will make the difference. The asset of this hotel is the people and the service that we’ve been providing for the last 30 years. And this is the advantage we have compared to newly opened hotels.”

A major revamp is underway, with work already started on the lobby and a new outlet – a coffee shop – which promises fantastic pastries and food offerings. “The rooms are also being renovated and I think, with the new look, we’ll be able to relaunch and reposition this

hotel within the luxury segment,” adds Kosta.

The all-day dining is also part of the refurbishment, with plans for a novel brunch concept where, apart from the outlet serving international cuisine, each restaurant will present its own delicacies. The lobby is scheduled to be relaunched later this year, in December; and the entire hotel will be completely ready and functional by the first quarter of next year.

Kosta feels the most challenging part of his job is to keep up the hotel’s high standards, and the most rewarding is to have positive feedback from his employees and customers.

To date, his proudest career achievement has been to revive the iconic Radisson BLU Tripoli after the revolution in 2012, and being the first international company to reopen business in Libya. It was also his first assignment!

Although Kosta was born and grew up in Germany, he is very much a Greek at heart.

Expecting their first child, he is joined by his wife in Bahrain, and will have his hands full as he hopes to make this island a home for the next four years. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Maya & Rifat

HE Simon Martin & HE Domenico Bellato

Maserati Owners Club Ghabga

The Maserati Owners Club held a Ghabga party at Al Areen Palace & Spa. The cake-cutting ceremony

Fahad & Waleed

Shaikh Abdulla, Rifat, HE Simon Martin & Sophie

Isa & Feras

Waseem & Yara

Laura, Maya & Sophie

Iftar Party Joz Group held an Iftar party at Elite Resort & Spa.

Joz Group staff at the Iftar

Venus, Rhona, Vinny, Aysha & Saritha

Ishfaq & Guruswami

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Raza, Sharmid & Rahees

Arif & Mubarak

Riyas & Zahed

August 2017 31

interview

PIERRE MAKES HIS MARK CHARLIE HOLDING This hospitality industry veteran has taken the reins as general manager of one of the most recognisable properties on the island.

P

ierre Vasseur, the new general manager of Fraser Suites Seef, Bahrain, is a man driven by focus and determination. So, it’s no surprise that he is already coming up with ways to improve this landmark brand in the Kingdom.

“I very recently took over this new role, but I’ve been in Bahrain for more than three years so I think I know the market enough to be able to adapt very quickly,” he says. “I’m definitely enjoying my experience here, because it’s something different. I’ve worked mostly at resorts in the past so I’m still discovering things I didn’t know before and that’s always good.”

During his stint as GM at one of Bahrain’s leading spa resort and waterparks, Pierre was well-known for his hands-on approach and impeccable attention to detail. “I’m still the same way and I think the staff has noticed this,” he laughs. “It’s not micromanagement but I’m very demanding and I still like to know everything that’s happening in my property. It’s the little touches that make the big difference.”

The past couple of years have been economically challenging for the Kingdom.

However, this has resulted in a change in trends that seems to be working well for Fraser Suites. Pierre believes demand is shifting from generic five-star hotels. He says: “It’s becoming more about lifestyle, gold-standard serviced apartments because guests want to feel more 32 August 2017

Pierre Vasseur

at home and control their experience. And that’s certainly something we pride ourselves on here. Our guests appreciate the large space of our comfortable suites and the wide range of facilities and amenities we offer.”

Pierre says that his role as GM has evolved and he now focuses more on guest and employee experience than on greeting guests in the lobby. “After working a few years for independent properties, I truly appreciate returning to a multiple award-winning international brand with such promising expansion plans,” he explains.

“We are frequently updating standards, and, the good thing is that Frasers Hospitality is always open to innovative and intuitive ideas, as we need to anticipate the expectations of the millennial generation. In this region, it’s not everyday that you see such owners who trust you to manage your property your own way – of course, as long as they are happy with the results.

“We have 148 properties worldwide, spanning more than 80 capital cities, but it’s still like a big family; with a strong company culture,

encouraging quality of life for its associates.

There will be a GM gathering in November in Bangkok so I look forward to meeting my counterparts and sharing ideas and experiences with them.”

Fraser Suites Seef is directly connected to Seef Mall, one of the most family-friendly shopping and entertainment destinations in the Kingdom, and that is something Pierre is hoping to put to good use in the near future. He says: “I want to interact more with the mall’s activities. There is a large indoor theme park for kids, Magic Island, and no less than 370 outlets I think we could work with to offer our guests something special and memorable.”

Meanwhile, Pierre also plans to expand the services currently offered. He explains: “We have several facilities here such as steam room, Jacuzzi, outdoor pool and gym, but we don’t currently offer treatments. In the future, I want to have three or four treatment rooms but there is no immediate rush because it’s all about finding the right therapists, ensuring the quality, and, of course, setting up the right atmosphere to create the best possible experience.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence

A Special Supplement Commemorating India's 70th Independence Day 4 Ever Greater Ties HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Indian Ambassador, speaks about the landmark anniversary and a new embassy.

35 Telling It Like It Is Rishi Kapoor opens up before his visit to Bahrain.

36 Hard Work and Honesty Waste Disposal boss ‘Mr Pappan’ shares the secrets of his success.

38-40 Hospitable Indians Hotel specialists explain their guest-pleasing strategies .

42 Art In Focus Two young Indian creatives, Aatif Anwar Sayed and Preeti Prasad Rana tell how Bahrain inspires them.

44 An Epicurean Adventure The latest launch from a favourite Indian eatery.

48-49 Festivities Galore Must-see festivals for visitors to the sub-continent.

50 Indian Bites News from the island’s Indian community.

Commercial Index Al Areen Palace & Spa.............................................. 51 Al Safir Hotel & Tower............................................... 39 Al Tawfeek Maintenance Services......................... 37 Atiram Premier Hotel.................................................. 41 Bahrain Cinema Company......................................... 52 Juffair Gate Hotel........................................................ 43 Life Insurance Corp. (International)......................... 46 Lulu Hypermarket........................................................ 47 Mohd Jalal & Sons (Suzuki)...................................... 49 The K Hotel................................................................... 53 The Lanterns Restaurant............................................ 45

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2017 33

indiaindependence

Ever Greater Ties

The new embassy

HE Alok Kumar Sinha

LIZ O’REILLY As India prepares to celebrate the 70th anniversary of independence, Indian Ambassador, HE Alok Kumar Sinha, says IndiaBahrain relations are on a positive trajectory.

For many years Bahrain’s large Indian population has awaited the opening of a new embassy complex and it’s fitting that, with the approach of the landmark anniversary, construction is now completed.

“There are still a few works to conclude, but we’re almost there,” says His Excellency, who hopes to conduct the Independence Day flag hoisting at the new premises in Seef. The official opening may well have to wait for a VIP visit later in the year, but it will certainly be sooner rather than later.

Designed by Indian firm CES and constructed by local builder ARM Contracting, the new purpose-built embassy will be very much a representation of India featuring a façade of Indian sandstone.

There are several events in the planning stage to celebrate the 70th year of India’s independence. Ambassador Sinha says: “We expect to have a cultural performance towards the end of the year, around November, we’re also planning exhibitions to showcase Indian products and handicrafts. And we will be holding a surprise event on August 15 to celebrate what is indeed an important landmark in our history.”

34 August 2017

After two years in post, His Excellency feels relations between the two countries are better than ever, saying: “This period has seen an increase in the momentum of bilateral relations in all spheres: political, economic, cultural and security cooperation. At political level, there have been exchange of visits at ministerial level – Bahrain’s Interior Minister visited India, the first Gulf Interior Minister to do so, and our Home Minister visited Bahrain in 2016. And early this year, the Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, Gen VK Singh, was in Bahrain to discuss further improving our already excellent bilateral cooperation.

“One of the areas discussed was increased non-hydrocarbon-based trade. Last year trade between the two countries surpassed USD1 billion and now Indian investment in Bahrain has also crossed the USD1 billion mark. There are 3,181 Indian-owned or joint-venture businesses currently operating in the Kingdom and this number is growing all the time. These businesses cover a diverse range of sectors from finance and hospitality to construction and real estate. One of the largest investments is by an Indian company JBF, which has ploughed USD380 million into the industrial park near the airport.”

A new momentum was created with the establishment of the High Joint Commission following the landmark visit of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to India in 2014. The first meeting was in New Delhi in 2015 and the next is due to take place in Bahrain later this

year – it will discuss expanding bilateral ties and new areas for cooperation building on the Make In India initiative and the investment policy liberalisation. Promising sectors in Bahrain include engineering goods, iron and steel, food processing, IT and fintech. “India has the world’s third largest ecosystem for start-ups so that is another area in which there is scope for mutually beneficial collaboration,” says His Excellency.

Major developments on the trade/investment front in the last two years have also seen agreements between Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and the CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) as well as between BCCI and PHDCCI (PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry), to promote exchanges of business delegations and increased investments. The CII has its Gulf office here in Bahrain and the ambassador feels it’s likely other Indian trade and industry organisations will follow.

Asked what makes Bahrain so popular with Indian workers and investors, His Excellency adds: “It’s the age old relationship and understanding that has developed over decades and centuries that gives confidence. Also, if you look at Indian businesses here, there are lot of success stories and there are new entries coming to the market of Indian businesses wanting to have their Gulf offices here.”

And, of his plans for the future, he says: “One of the most important functions of the mission is to continue to address the needs of the large Indian community in Bahrain by providing smooth access to embassy services, which we do in a number of ways, including through social media – that’s an area we continue to grow actively. I am grateful for the excellent cooperation I have always found from the Bahraini authorities when addressing any issues faced by the community.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

Telling It Like It Is

Rishi Kapoor

Not known to mince his words, famous Bollywood celebrity, Rishi Kapoor, chats to Behnaz Sanjana about his impending visit to the island.

Rishi Kapoor’s tell-all memoir – Khullam Khulla – released earlier this year, has met with rave reviews for its brutal honesty and candidness.

The silver screen star will be in Bahrain on September 1 for a show with the same name, where he will enact his own autobiography for a live audience. “I will narrate my life’s anecdotes for people, and this is what is unique about the show,” he says. “It is not a play, but a one-on-one conversation, which people are sure to enjoy.”

He comes from a lineage of great artists, endearingly called the ‘first family’ of Bollywood. “The Kapoors have contributed to 90 of the 106 years of Indian cinema,” he says. “Writing an autobiography [about the family] had never been done and I’m happy that mine has been well received.”

Having been to the Kingdom several years www.bahrainthismonth.com

ago, Rishi is excited to return to the island, saying: “I can’t wait to meet my friends and fans. I believe Bahrain is a changed country since I last visited, and I’m looking forward to seeing its progress.”

It was in the iconic 1973 blockbuster, Bobby, that he set a million hearts aflutter as a teenage romantic. “I was all of 20,” he recalls.

“I had been surrounded by celebrities and cinema since birth, so it was a great high to do a leading role in a film. The success of the movie brought about an even greater high.”

Does he feel the same rush when he faces the camera today? “Oh yes, there are butterflies in my stomach every time I do something new,” he says. “My job offers me the challenge to work with different people, in diverse environments. It is always a joy to capture emotions and see the outcome of hard work.”

Indian cinema has come a long way since Rishi first emoted for the camera, over four decades ago. He believes that new content and technological advances have brought

about a positive change. “We’re making better movies – all types, for all kinds of tastes these days – and I think that’s a very progressive sign,” he adds.

With his father and grandfather both being illustrious names in Bollywood, Rishi has acting in his blood. The way stories are conceived, made and marketed is very different from the time he serenaded audiences with his beguiling smile and his trademark cardigans. But what hasn’t changed is his improvisation when the director shouts “action!” “I’m not a method actor,” he says. “I belong to the school of natural or spontaneous acting.”

He has lent his charisma to over 140 films to date and worked with countless co-stars, but finds it difficult to pick favourites. “All my movies are dear to me,” he says. “It has been wonderful working with so many different people. There have been some fantastic actors who have not only contributed to the film but also to my career, to an extent, including from the younger crop of actors. So I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with my colleagues and am ever obliged to all of them.”

After some excellent character portrayals in his recent works, fans are craning their necks for more from one of the finest performers in the industry. And they won’t be waiting too long. “My next release is Patel Ki Punjabi Shaadi and then there is 102 Not Out, which we’re filming right now,” he reveals. “I have three more films once I complete these.”

Rishi is hoping to mingle with the Indian diaspora in Bahrain at his show at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, organised by renowned neurologist, Dr Ram Vatwani.

August 2017 35

indiaindependence AL TAWFEEK

Hard Work and Honesty

Krishnan Nair Padmanabhan and Pregith Padmanabhan

LIZ O’REILLY One of the country’s most successful waste disposal operations turns 34 this year.

Founder, Mr Krishnan Nair Padmanabhan, affectionately known as Mr Pappan, shares the secrets of its success.

Mr Pappan first came to the Kingdom from India in 1976 and worked in cleaning services before moving onto Sheraton Bahrain Hotel.

After a short spell back in his home country, he returned to the island determined to set up his own business in waste management.

He says: “There was plenty of opportunity as there were a lot of requirements for this kind of service in Bahrain at that time. I entered into a partnership with Mr Ahmed Mohammed Al Jaber, which has been continued with his son, Mr Fawzi Ahmed Al Jaber. I put in the investment and we started with just six staff, including myself.”

Al Tawfeek initially began with liquid waste disposal and quickly broadened its offering into skip hire and disposal of solid waste. These days the company covers all areas of waste management from providing sewage tankers 36 August 2017

and compactors to skip services and hydro jetting for drain clearance.

In later years Mr Pappan also expanded into hygiene services with a specialised housekeeping and cleaning division as well as removals.

An impressive line-up of equipment includes 75 trucks and machines, 90 vehicles across the different areas of operations as well as 800 skip buckets, which can be spotted around the island.

These days Al Tawfeek employs more than 350 people and the founder is proud of its record for staff orientation and training particularly on large contracts where workers have to pass the client’s tests as well as Al Tawfeek’s own exacting training.

“This is a great area in which we are always learning,” says Mr Pappan. “For example, we have staff working with various well respected international organisations, we learn from the training they undertake and implement the same high standards in other areas of the business.”

He is also proud of how the company has recovered from a dark period when the formerly 700-strong workforce was drastically reduced due to dealings with a dishonest

business associate.

“We suffered huge losses,” he explains. “But we have regained through hard work and honest dealing. Some of the highlights of our 34 years in operation have been taking care of our employees [with some of the original workforce only recently retired], being straightforward and continuing to maintain the quality of the services we offer.”

And asked about his plans for the future and possible retirement, he smiles and declares: “I will keep walking till the end. But, of course, we have to change according to the times and give a chance to the new generation. My son, Mr Pregith Padmanabhan, is now fully involved in the operation of the company and we are always looking for new opportunities.

“Running a business is a thrill and the most important thing to remember is to work hard, be disciplined and honest in all your dealings and then success will follow.

“I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the Government of Bahrain and ministries for their continued support and cooperation for this achievement of 34 years and making this dream come true.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

W here Cust o me r C a re C o u n t s 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.

LIQUID AND DRY DISPOSAL SERVICES

CLEANING, PESTCONTOL & REMOVALS

Collection and disposal of wet and dry waste

Industrial, commercial and domestic cleaning available. Pest control services are provided. Moving and removal services carried out efficiently

SKIP & COMPACTOR SERVICES Skip containers are delivered as per the client’s requirements. Services are provided around the clock services for collection and disposals.

AIR CONDITIONING SERVICES Specialized in handling the installation, repair and maintenance of all types of HVAC units such as the split air conditioning, chillers and package units.

HYDROJETTING & DRAINAGE CLEARANCE Clearing the drain line blocks suitable to multi-storied buildings, marine & industrial piping and drainage system

Al Tawfeek Maintenance Services Co. WLL PO Box 24349, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel : +973 1778 6828, 1778 6368 Facsimile : +973 1778 6869 email: inquiries@altawfeek.net www.altawfeek.net

indiaindependence

Shantharam Shetty

AL SAFIR HOTEL & TOWER

Experience Meets Business This veteran hotelier and businessman is changing the game of this popular four-star property.

38 August 2017

Shantharam Shetty, the director of Inn-Venue Hotel and Restaurant Management Company, is currently managing Al Safir Hotel & Tower to take it to ever greater heights.

He has nearly 25 years of experience in the industry, predominantly in India and the GCC. “After graduating with a degree in arts, I was enticed by the hospitality sector,” he says.

“I realised that serving others gives me immense pleasure, and adopted it as my life goal.”

He moved to Bahrain in 1996 to set up a hotel group, which then expanded its operations markedly over time.

Elaborating on his current focus, he says: “Al Safir has 126 deluxe rooms and top-of-the-line services.

Guests are guaranteed truly regal treatment at budget-friendly prices. We are also adding more entertainment facilities to cater to those who enjoy music and dining out.

“The adjoining tower offers both lodging and leisure, with 68 classy residences. Out of those, 24 are executive rooms, 39 are regular suites – with the option of merging two to form a three-bedroom accommodation – four VIP and an Imperial Suite that comes with its own private pool.”

Shantharam takes a proactive approach and interacts with the guests directly to ensure a smooth flow of operations. “I value guest relations and believe that building a rapport with customers is the best way to bring them back to us,” he explains.

When asked about his future plans, he says: “I intend to develop and expand Inn-Venue to the next level by adding more hotels and luxury apartments.

I’m open to any opportunities that knock on my door.”

Shantharam believes that the hospitality industry in Bahrain has a promising future.

“I have seen the market in all its glory – its ups and downs – from the very beginning,” he says. “I am certain that the prospects for the future look bright.”

Being a busy man, Shantharam finds that spending time with his family is the best way to relieve stress.

“I set a target for each day, and if by the end of it I have achieved it – that is a great thought to unwind over,” he says. “I also enjoy exercising.”

He has a special message to convey to his fellow countrymen in Bahrain: “Indians are known to be dedicated, sincere and hardworking individuals, so this is the image we need to keep up to make our nation proud.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence

Ved Prakash

ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

Hospitality Enthusiast The group head of this four-star property cluster has managed to successfully adopt his profession as a lifestyle.

40 August 2017

Seasoned hotelier and group general manager (GGM) of Atiram Hotels in Bahrain, Ved Prakash credits his professional success to his passion for the industry.

Having had a humble start at Sofitel New Delhi, this Indian national has successfully made his way up the corporate ladder.

“I started with a three-year diploma in hotel management from Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition in Pusa, New Delhi. Ironically, I had little interest in it in the beginning,” says Ved. “After graduating, I joined Sofitel New Delhi as a senior steward and went on to become assistant manager for food and beverages. I then moved to Park Hotel Delhi as banqueting manager. This was the time I fell in love with it all – and the affair has continued for more than 30 years now.

“I learnt everything about the Indian hotel industry – how to manage coffee shops, room service and fine dining restaurants before coming to Bahrain in 1989. I started as food and beverage manager here when the hotel industry was still very small,” he adds.

“I worked with Ramada Hotel and Best Western as general manager before joining Atiram Hotels to take on this role.”

He coordinates with all his properties from his office at Atiram Premier, where he is responsible for all operations.

“I begin my rounds first thing in the morning, starting with the breakfast area, where I talk to guests and make sure they are happy,” he explains.

“I then proceed with the head of department meetings around 11am to discuss matters of daily

operations, banqueting, sales reports and more.

“I take a break in between and come back to the hotel around 9.30pm. This is when I have to make sure everything goes smoothly with the duty and night managers at our three eminent, upmarket venues – Coda Jazz Lounge, Wembley and Cavallo.”

Talking about the most rewarding aspect of his job, he says: “This sector has a multitude of opportunities for growth. Also, it is very fulfilling to know that we are able to make others happy by serving them.”

Ved believes that the most challenging part is to be able to ensure the smooth functioning of all his properties.

“Each establishment has diverse dining and entertainment outlets, so it can be tricky,” he says. “I also do my best to keep the staff satisfied, as they are the lifeblood of any institution.”

He urges aspiring hospitality enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the field, and says: “You have to be ready to do everything, and love your job. I may be the GGM for my subordinates, but for my guests, I am a staff member – and I am always ready to serve them. You need to be humble, and have the motto of service embedded in your blood.”

On the occasion of Indian Independence Day, Ved shows his appreciation to India’s leaders and the diaspora in Bahrain, saying: “I really appreciate what our prime minister Narendra Modi is doing for the betterment of the country. I would also like to extend my gratitude and felicitations to the ambassador of India, HE Alok Kumar Sinha, and Indians in Bahrain and all over the world.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence

ART In Focus Indians make a tremendous contribution to the island’s cultural scene. BTM caught up with two very different artists to discover their inspiration.

Preeti Prasad Rana produces stunning musically-inspired monochrome pieces which have been exhibited in Mumbai and at the Khajuraho art festival.

She says: “I have become unsure how old I really am or where exactly in India I am from. My place on this timeline and my roots are remarkably irrelevant facets to who I am. Bahrain has been home for me, my husband and our two children for the past 18 years.

42 August 2017

“I began to produce art in real earnest after a year away from this sepia land, I began writing verse and painting. A telling of a story perhaps that I began to take note of.

“I began with oils on canvas, did some water colours and then something happened. I began to paint music. In plain black ink using bleach. The bleach turns the ink to shades of gold and sepia...each stroke a little more than me, just a shade beyond my control. So now that is my technique – that I discover anew with each painting. And music remains my muse and inspiration.

“I exhibited first in Mumbai, where I was spotted by organisers of the Khajuraho art festival. I was invited as an international artist to exhibit my Mausiqi series there. I was proud to represent Bahrain as an expatriate Indian who was able to explore, pursue and become an artist in this gentle land.”

Her studio in Saar is open to all to come visit.

Mohammed Aatif Anwar Sayed is a Bahrain-born Indian artist who, at just 17, displays a maturity beyond his years.

Profoundly deaf, he does not let his disability define him saying: “It never did and never will, as I am gifted and blessed. I believe silence gives me a lot of power to observe and capture it in my creations on paper with enormous shades and colours!”

He started drawing cartoon characters and cars at the age of five and attended New Horizon School but he had to leave when it came to learning languages. He says: “It was hard to be turned away from school after seven years and I did miss all my friends.

However, all along my parents have been a pillar of strength guiding and encouraging me. I was able to overcome the difficulty phase by phase investing my energy in art. This was truly satisfying and liberating and very important. I could express my feeling through my pictures.”

Working in water colours and acrylic paints, Aatif says his inspiration comes from Bahrain and Mother Nature. He shows his work wherever he can, at festivals, social gatherings and markets, and his paintings are on sale at Fath al Khair Gallery and Fatir Antique.

He would love to work in art full-time and says: “It was challenging when I started to seek an opportunity to work fulltime in an organisation that can put my skills and creativity to good use. I wish we had employers who were keen to see my potential and make the best of it.”

You can check out his talents on Instagram @aatif_galleria or Facebook: Aatif’s Galleria.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Cricket Tournament The KCA-BFC Summer Cricket tournament took place at the KCA ground.

Cricket tournament finalists

Summer Camp KCA inaugurated its summer camp at its premises.

Lantern lighting ceremony

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Performers at the inauguration

August 2017 43

indiaindependence

LANTERNS GOURMET LOUNGE

An Epicurean Adventure PUJA TIWARI This popular restaurant has opened its sixth branch – in Amwaj Islands – and it’s bigger and better than ever.

44 August 2017

A contemporary, airy space with glass panelling and chic interiors dictates the predominant vibe of Lanterns Gourmet Lounge.

It features a swanky bar, large dining space, an open kitchen, as well as a dessert and buffet counter.

The walls of the restaurant are festooned with quirky objects, such as jars of ghee, harees pots and more.

The new branch showcases a riotously flavoursome menu featuring its signature, classic dishes along with international favourites. Curries, tandoori meats, naans and biryanis along with sandwiches, pizza and pasta will keep every palate happy.

Chef Karl Byron, flown in from the UK to head continental menu division, suggested a variety of dishes based on our preferences.

Lunch commenced with Dal Shorba – traditional Indian spiced soup with croutons and lemon. Rich and aromatic, it was the perfect starter to whet our appetite for the next course.

My dining partner loves grilled sandwiches, so chef Karl suggested the three-cheese melted toastie with aged cheddar, goats’ cheese, brie, spinach, Spanish onion, pomegranate and fig jam. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I read the description but it was pure bliss for my taste buds. I’m not a big fan of sweet and savoury combinations but the ingredients were a harmonious blend and complemented each other perfectly.

The margherita pizza came next, with a tangy tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella and baby basil. The simple toppings are perfect for lunch when you want

to avoid the 3pm slump.

The Superfood Salad tasted even better than it looked, with a melange of mixed leaves, roast beetroot, green apple, tomato, chickpeas, quinoa and sunflower seeds.

While waiting for the mains, I took a walk to further explore the venue. The open kitchen adds plenty of drama to the vibe, and outside garden seating is bound to entice people during the cooler months.

A simmering pot of Dal Makhani, a concoction of black lentil and kidney beans stirred with cream, butter and spices made its entrance. It was followed

by Fish and Chips, a succulent breadcrumb coated fillet of fish with crisp fries and two dips to go along with it.

The dal, irresistibly smooth and tantalising – was paired wonderfully with different naan breads.

By now, we were both bursting at the seams with the feast, but it would have been a crime to say no to dessert. The lemon meringue tart had contrasting flavours of zesty lemon against the sugariness of the egg whites. They worked very well together. The sticky toffee pudding with homemade salted caramel ice cream is a must-try for anyone with an insatiable sweet tooth.

With an extensive food and drinks menu, delicious desserts and an inviting atmosphere, Lanterns Gourmet Lounge is the perfect place for a romantic evening, a business sit-down or a social gathering.

Call 77 770-055. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Club Liv Party

Sau, Aron & Zeu

Juffair Gate Hotel hosted a DJ party at Club Liv. DJ Santi & DJ X

Annu, Bob & Sau

DJ Riddler & Naveen

Nook & Jed Omar & Diana

Maria & Azil

Tiffany, Ashiry & Anna

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Daria, Fatima & Asja

Maria

August 2017 45

indiaindependence

Rajesh Kandwal

LIC (INTERNATIONAL)

Exceptional Growth through Quality Service This international insurance provider expects to hit a business milestone this year.

With the aim of providing life insurance cover to the Indian diaspora in the GCC as well as residents of other nationalities, LIC (International) BSC(c) was launched in Bahrain on July 23, 1989, in partnership with International Agencies Co Ltd (Intercol) and LIC of India, the strongest and largest life insurance company in India with a market share exceeding 75 per cent.

LIC (International) has excelled in all areas of operation for the last 28 years and stands out as one of the most significant market players in the life insurance sector, not only in Bahrain but across the Gulf. The company’s market share has increased to 47.48 per cent in Total Premium Income and 95.03 per cent in Total Policies as of December 31, 2015. With an asset base USD1,767 million as of September 30, 2016, Mr Rajesh Kandwal CEO and 46 August 2017

managing director, says the company is poised to hit USD2 billion before the end of 2017.

The reason for LIC (International)’s strength in the market is the strong connection it enjoys especially with NRIs (non-resident Indians). It has fulfilled the promises made to its customers and given them comfort at the time needed the most. It has, through its various products, extended solutions to areas such as the educational needs of children, pensions for old age and a safe reliable platform for their hard earned savings. As of December 31, 2016, the company had paid out USD173.2 million in claims.

The plans are issued in US dollars and LIC (International)’s unique and wide range of products has something to meet the needs of every customer – be it lower cost life cover, attractive returns, liquidity, provision for children’s education/marriage, health coverage or pensions.

Portability of policies to India is another unique added advantage for all NRIs. The company has also recently launched a Group Life Insurance Plan, suitable for various organisations, establishments and associations.

The company’s goal is to give its customers convenience and quality service, therefore it has created the LIC Intl application available to download from the App store and Google Play; and on its website the company has launched a marketing software, these items ease the process of getting information on existing policies and help guide customers to choose the right plan for themselves and their families.

Here is a brief on some of the popular plans available with LIC (International): Participating Endowment Plan (PEN) – The most popular and simple savings scheme, ideal for those looking for a plan that combines life cover, liquidity and investment.

Participating Marriage / Education (PME) – A plan that allows you to make provisions for milestones of expenses in your child’s life, like education and marriage.

Jeevan Anand (JA) – A unique combination of endowment and whole life with provision of payment of sum assured twice.

Professional Education Plan (PEP) – A plan that provides cash back, liquidity, guaranteed additions annually, flexible premium payment, and benefit riders, ideal for your child’s education and future expenses.

Deferred Annuity Plan With or Without Life Cover – A unique plan unlikely to be available with any other institution, which provides a pension throughout the policy holder’s life.

Pure Term Assurance (PTA) – Ideal for those who look for pure life risk at a low premium.

Future Secure Guaranteed Return Plan – The company’s newest plan that is perfect for those looking for a lump sum investment with guaranteed returns in a short period of time and life cover.

In these challenging economic conditions, it becomes very important to save money and invest it smartly so that you generate returns and don’t risk losing your hard-earned savings. By investing your money in LIC (International) you are not only saving but earning returns, securing your and your family’s future. It is a win-win situation. With the company’s strong position in the market, you can invest with confidence.

LIC (International)’s slogan is ‘We Insure Lives, and Ensure Happiness’.

Call 39 936-618. www.bahrainthismonth.com

indiaindependence

Festivities Galore India, undoubtedly, is a land of rich and varied religious festivals. Being a secular nation that embraces several faiths, religious celebrations liven up the streets all year long. You would certainly go green with envy if you found out how many holidays get raked up in marking these special dates. Attending such fêtes is a great way of witnessing the culture and traditions existing within this diverse country. Below is a list of the top 10 most revered festivities.

KRISHNA JANMASHTAMI/GOVINDA Date: August 15, 2017 Location: Across India This day commemorates the birthday of lord Krishna. People abstain from eating and observe a fast throughout the day, breaking it with a special meal after dusk. Visiting temples, praying, dancing and singing hymns at midnight is all part of the festivities. An extremely fun part of the event involves teams of men scrambling to form a human pyramid to reach up and break open clay pots filled with curd, which have been strung up high from buildings. These pots often have handsome cash prizes inlcuded for the winning team.

GANESH CHATURTHI Dates: August 25-September 5, 2017 Location: Across India

This spectacular event runs for 11 days and honours the birth of the Hindu elephant-headed god, Ganesha. The start of the festival sees huge, elaborately crafted statutes of Ganesha installed in homes and on podiums, which have been especially constructed and beautifully decorated. At the end of the festival, the statutes are paraded through the streets, accompanied by much singing and dancing, and then submerged in the ocean.

ONAM Date: September 4, 2017.

Location: Kerala Considered to be one of the biggest days in Kerela, south India, Onam marks the homecoming of the mythical king Mahabali. It’s a festival rich in culture and heritage. People decorate the ground in front of their houses with strikingly arranged flowers in beautiful patterns. The festival is also celebrated with new clothes, feasts served on banana leaves, carnivals of elephants, fireworks, boat races, music and Kathakali dances.

48 August 2017

NAVARATRI, DUSSEHRA AND DURGA PUJA Dates: September 21-30, 2017.

Location: Gujrat and Mumbai The first nine days of this event are filled with a tradtitional dance called ‘Dandiya’ in honour of the mother goddess. The 10th day, called Dussehra, is devoted to celebrating the defeat of the demon king, Ravana, by lord Rama. It also coincides with the victory of the revered warrior Durga over the evil buffalo Mahishasura. In eastern India, the festival is observed as Durga Puja. Huge statues of her are sculpted and immersed in the Ganges. This is an extremely social and theatrical event, with drama, dance and cultural performances.

DIWALI Date: October 19, 2017.

Location: Across India Also known as the ‘festival of lights’, it is one of the most popular celebrations all over India. It runs for five days, honouring the victory of good over evil and brightness over darkness.

Fireworks, small clay lamps and candles are lit to bring luck. Goddess Lakshmi is prayed to for wealth and abundance. www.bahrainthismonth.com

PONGAL Date: January 14, 2018 Location: Tamil Nadu Observed by Tamillians across the world, the four-day long harvest festival is celebrated with bonfires, dance, cattle races, sweets and savouries. The houses look resplendent with Kolam designs traditional floral designs made with rice, coloured powders and flower petals.

HOLI Date: March 2, 2018.

Location: Across India This colourful revelry marks the abundance and hues of the spring harvest season. People playfully throw coloured powder all over each other, have parties, and dance under water sprinklers. Bhang, a special drink made of natural greens, is also consumed on this day. Holi signifies the arrival of spring, the end of winter, and, for many, a day to meet others, play and laugh, forgive and forget. This ritual is said to be based on lord Krishna’s playful splashing of the milkmaids with water.

KUMBH MELA Date: January 2019 Location: Allahabad Considered to be one of the biggest fairs in the world, it takes place every three years. Great saints and gurus, many of whom are rarely seen outside of their forest or mountain hermitages, share their blessings with millions of pilgrims over a two-month period. It also creates roughly 650,000 jobs for the state it is being held in. Huge tent cities are set up on the banks of the holy rivers to accommodate and feed up to 70 million visitors. Sacred chants and ceremonies continue round the clock and the river is said to cleanse people of their worldly burdens.

BIHU DATE: APRIL 14, 2018 LOCATION: ASSAM Celebrated in the north east, Bihu is the harvest festival of Assam. During the month-long celebrations, young men and women wear their traditional clothes and perform dances in the village fields and courtyards. A community feast is held with a lot of fanfare. Some of the food served includes coconut sweets, sesame pitha, ghila pitha and fish pitika.

PUSHKAR CAMEL FAIR Date: November 2018 Location: Rajasthan This festival is not dictated by religion, but purely by culture. The fair sees around 50,000 camels come together in Pushkar, Rajasthan. Early origins saw it as a business attraction, where local cattle traders would convene during the holy Kartik Purnima, yet another Indian festival.

The fair is now a major tourist attraction and has more to do with fun and entertainment. Camels are dressed up, entered into beauty contests, raced and traded. A huge parade is held that includes magicians, musicians, dancers, acrobats and snake charmers. www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2017 49

indiaindependence

New Hotel for Juffair

Simon Wan and Dr Varghese Kurian

Bahrain Heads to Indian Food Fair

Khalid Al-Amin

A delegation from the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) as well as businesspeople and investors will participate in the 2017 India International Food Fair to be held in New Delhi on November 3-5.

The head of BCCI’s Food and Agriculture Committee, Khalid Al-Amin, said Bahrain’s participation aims to expand trade in food industries including rice, cooking oil and pulses, to enhance national food security.

He noted the strength of bilateral relations in various fields, mainly economic, trade and investment.

He stressed the significance of the fair, which is one of the largest at the Asian level, and added that the Indian government has allocated agricultural land for foreign investors, which could benefit Bahrain’ food security.

50 August 2017

Bahrain is to get its first Park Regis Hotel in a partnership between StayWell Hospitality and Indian-owned giant VKL Group.

The Juffair property will open in the last quarter of 2017 offering 164 guest rooms, six food and beverage outlets, including a 1,000 capacity ballroom, swimming pool and gym. The upscale hotel will be launched with a marketing licence agreement with VKL Group.

Simon Wan, CEO, StayWell Hospitality Group said Manama-based VKL Group is a key regional player which owns and operates a portfolio of hotels with more than 1,300 rooms and another 600 rooms shortly. This will enable StayWell Hospitality Group to open additional properties across Bahrain in the coming 12 months.

“We are hoping that this magnificent property is the stepping stone for further presence in Bahrain. I am confident further projects between both groups will be a reality soon under the vision and leadership of VKL Namal Group chairman Dr Varghese Kurian,” says Mr Wan. “We are hoping for a long and successful partnership with StayWell Hospitality Group and we hope we can move quickly with future properties under the StayWell Brands Park Regis and Leisure Inn,” says Dr Kurian.

VIP Visitors Kerala Police couple, Tigress Ajeetha Begum IPS and her husband Satheesh Bino IPS will be in Bahrain to inaugurate the KCA (Kerala Catholic Association) Onam Festival Season 2017.

The event will run for 10 days starting from August 28 and KCA is preparing various functions including a grand inauguration ceremony and a traditional Onam food festival.

The ceremony will take place on Friday, September 1 at 8pm, at KCA VKL Auditorium in the presence of Mrs Begum, the Commissioner of Police, Kollam District and her husband Mr Bino, Police Chief of the Pathanamthitta District.

Mrs Begum is famous for her crusades against the drug mafia, for the protection of women and her initiatives to cut traffic accidents. She is the first muslim woman IPS officer of the southern Indian states.

After the inauguration, the Onam programmes will

A Poetic Tribute Bahrain-based Vaijayantee Bhattacharya moved to the island from Kolkata in 2010. But now she has returned to India’s cultural capital, the city of her birth, to launch her first book, in which she pays tribute to her adopted home.

Mosaic Vision is a 114-page volume of 37 poems penned over the years by the journalist-

Satheesh Bino IPS and Tigress Ajeetha Begum IPS

continue with various competitions such as tug of war, art and literary and competitions, pookalam, payasam and more.

On September 3, KCA will showcase a special programme called Rhythms of Bahrain demonstrating the talents of those working in fields such as construction and cleaning.

The finale of the celebration will be a grand music programme by the much-celebrated playback singer Panthalam Balan on Thursday, September 7.

The festival meal known as Onam Sadhya will be on Friday, September 8.

turned-writer who lives in the Kingdom with her son Viraj and husband Tuhin Roy Chowdhury.

Two of her poems capture the essence of the island. In My Bahrain she writes: “Dear Bahrain, you showed me life. In a host of shades I would have never known. In you today I live in peace. In your lap my son has grown.”

While The Roads of Bahrain discusses land reclamation, rapid change and the transformation of Bahrain’s landscape.

Vaijayantee Bhattacharya

She told Al Arabya: “As a child, I scribbled poems in a notebook which had a velvet cover.

Whenever I held it, I felt as if I was holding the hand of a close friend. It was very comforting. ” www.bahrainthismonth.com

INDIAN

INDEPENDENCE Week Celebration 14th to 18th August Specially crafted menu by chef with selection of INDIAN KEBAB AND BIRYANI.

50%

discount on all sharing menus for both Lunch and Dinner.

Unlimited Kebab & Biryani

BD8 ++ Per Person

www.alareenpalace.com

17 845 000

bystander

The Indian Community Relief Fund, under the patronage of the Indian Embassy, disbursed 11.2 million Indian Rupees from their Family Welfare fund to 112 needy families during the last 30 months.

Indian Club Toastmasters celebrated their 700th meeting at the Indian Club. Motivational speaker, DTM Mohammed Isa gave the keynote address on ‘’4 Cs of Success” which was attended by more than 150 invited guests.

Yoga Festival

The Krishna Hindu Temple and Thattai (Bhatia) Community, in association with the Indian Embassy and Salaam Bahrain, organised a Yoga Festival to celebrate International Yoga Day. Yoga class in session

Anil Kumar Singh receiving a certificate

52 August 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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For reservations, please call 1736 0000

bystander

Michi & Anita

Joseph & Visnja

Gulf Hotel Tropical Nights The Gulf Hotel launched its weekly ‘Tropical Friday Nights by the Pool’ at its premises.

Abdulla, Yasir, Raed & Ryan

Katerina & Iryna

Sasi, Krisha, Krithi & Priya

Anna & Hanna

James, Kenneth & Colton

Hardeep

Justin

Rotary Club Meeting The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya held a regular meeting at the Golden Tulip Hotel.

Garfield Jones, Jano, Virendra, Jamil, Ross & Sebahat

54 August 2017

Harb & Costas

Hanadi, Virendra, Ross & Jano

Chris, Garfield Jones & Amira

Jamil, Waleed, Faisal, Hisham & Mohamed

Abdulrahman, Mazen Alumran & Khalil

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Tewabe & Recho’s Big Wedding

Tewabe & Recho celebrated their wedding at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

The wedding was attended by friends and families in Bahrain and those who came from abroad to celebrate the bride and groom’s special day.

Tewabe & Recho

The bride & groom with family

Gezachewu

Abel

Kesis blessing the bride & groom

The bride’s family

Sele & Betty

The bride’s brothers

Mechot, Merry, Hana, Nini & Rose with friend

Friends of the groom

Azu, Nesuhe & Tsehay

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DJ KB

Feke, Anmawu, Nolawi, Naod, Fre & Danny

August 2017 55

H S E R A F START

backtoschool

Cath Kidston

Summer is halfway through and parents are gearing up for their children’s new school year. BTM gives you the low-down on what and where to buy, as well as how to ease effortlessly into the ‘backto-school’ routine.

56 August 2017

The holidays bring respite from the mundane – for kids and adults alike. For the children, it’s a welcome break from strict schedules, homework and exams; and for busy mums and dads, the drudgery of pick-ups and drop-offs. Moreover, budding brains get to enjoy some fun time away from the walls of the classroom.

However, boredom can set in, especially if you haven’t left for a vacation or have already returned from one. Parents can sometimes reach their wits’ end wondering how to keep the children occupied, because summer camps can only do so much.

So why not use this time to set the gears in motion for preparing for the upcoming academic semester?

Make a checklist of all the essentials you’ll need, come September. Start sourcing them, while there’s still time, to avoid the mad rush and stocks running out. Involving young ones in the process will add to the excitement and allow them to anticipate going back to class.

Fundamental Fun If there is a one-stop shop that offers almost all basics, it has to be Centrepoint. Its four brands – Mothercare, Splash, Lifestyle and Shoemart – provide some of the trendiest collections.

Parents will agree that one of the few things a child of any age is most concerned about is their school bag. It’s always wise to invest in a durable one that will last the year. Whether your little (or not-so-little) one is into sport, action heroes, Disney princesses or all-time favourite cartoon characters, Mothercare has a wide range of satchels and shoulder bags to choose from. You can also opt for a matching lunch case complete with all the frills – a tiffin carrier, kid-friendly cutlery, water bottle and a fruit box.

Besides aesthetics, parents must pay attention to the quality of items they are purchasing, especially food-related articles. Low-grade plastics can harm one’s health in the long run, so opt for BPA-free Tritan www.bahrainthismonth.com

backtoschool Shoe Mart

Splash

water bottles, which do not leak toxic chemicals.

Lifestyle and Splash have a great display of snazzy knapsacks and sling backpacks with pop-art, avant-garde and floral prints – perfect for tweens and teens to express their personal style.

Shoemart is a treasure trove of smart footwear. A variety of brands, patterns and designs are up for grabs. The store offers white sports trainers and black school loafers with laces, Velcro fasteners and cartoon characters, as well as international brands like Skechers and Reebok.

It’s true that children probably outgrow their shoes the fastest, but it’s also important that their footgear is comfortable, durable and the right fit, to support the development of the muscles and ligaments of growing feet.

Puma is a global brand that provides top-quality footwear. Its factory outlet at Jannusan has a wide range of styles and prices. The store is currently offering a 25 per cent discount on all back-to-school items.

To avoid last minute chaos, ensure that uniforms fit well and are comfortable enough to run, jump and play in.

Centrepoint’s Mothercare, House of Uniforms and Marks & Spencer are good options.

Stationery Staples Cath Kidston’s school paraphernalia is beautifully crafted and sure to get little ones charged to take on the new academic term. The brand’s floral print notebooks and pretty hair bows are hard to miss. Children can embrace their inner spirit animal with themes like Pets Party, Safari Stamps and Dragons on cute rucksacks, pouches and lunch carriers. The cheeky monkeys can show off pencil cases that match their backpacks in a range of happy colours.

Students, teachers and parents can source standard study accessories from major hypermarket chains like Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket and Megamart – all stock notebooks, pens, pencils and art-related knick-knacks. It’s also a good idea to purchase frequently required colouring and craft materials before school starts again, so you don’t need to rush to the stores on busy weekdays. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Rev the Engines Top tips to channel youthful minds to seamlessly slide into the year’s routine: • Designate a hook and a cubby for kids to stash their belongings. That way, everything will be in one place.

• Chart breakfast and mealtime menus for the week or, better yet, a month ahead. Shop for ingredients together – children are likely to be less fussy if they’re involved in the planning and preparation of the food, with your guidance, of course.

• Hang a white or chalk board for older children to make their own calendars. It helps them to assume responsibility to ensure that they have packed everything they need for the day. This teaches organisation skills and empowers them for the future too.

• Keep your kids’ recent passport-size pictures handy – for IDs, forms and diaries.

• Make sure children are up to date with their immunisations.

• Mutually decide times for waking and going to bed, and start adhering to them two weeks before they head to a new grade or term.

• Set timetables for homework, extracurricular activities, play and mealtimes to avoid long-drawn-out battles later on.

• Make time for reading (together or individually) and writing down thoughts in a journal. This gives them a sense of confidence once school starts.

Cath Kidston

August 2017 57

backtoschool

CENTREPOINT

Put Your Best Foot Forward Kids can be the envy of their peers, thanks to the terrific selection of school essentials offered by this popular brand.

Centrepoint, one of the Middle East’s largest fashion retailers, represents the Landmark Group’s strategy to synergise its core brands – Mothercare, Splash, Shoe Mart and Lifestyle – under one identity, thereby projecting a single fashion destination for an aspiring generation of shoppers.

This convergence has led to an enhanced and stimulating shopping experience for consumers, providing great value for money in a visually exciting retail destination for the whole family.

The store has launched its Back To School collection that has everything youngsters need to start the semester on the right note.

The brand understands that each child has unique talents and interests, and has set out to embrace and celebrate these differences. The best part about starting an academic year is purchasing new gear, and children are going to be thrilled with this season’s exciting line-up.

The recently introduced collection includes everything from water bottles to stylish backpacks, pencil pouches, stationery items 58 August 2017

and footwear, in attractive designs and at affordable prices.

Mothercare features products that are perfect for small boys and girls who want to embrace their adventurous spirit. Satchels for little fashionistas feature popular characters such as Elsa from Frozen, and one of the alltime favourites, Hello Kitty. The adventurethemed boys’ range, including Superman and Batman backpacks, is bound to unleash their inner superheroes. For fans of pulsating action, the selection includes Transformers and Ferrari paraphernalia. The school bags are stylish and functional, comprising pencil pouches, Tritan (BPA-free plastic) bottles and spacious lunch boxes.

Trendy teens looking for an edgy style need not search any further. Lifestyle has a huge range of knapsacks with eye-catching bohemian patterns, flower power designs, characters and pop expression prints. Popular items from Hershel, Sackroots, JWorld, Jansport, Minmei and Outsider in attractive imprints and colours can also be purchased.

Shoemart’s collection will have children looking and feeling their smartest in uniform, with a variety of black classics, white canvas

trainers and sporty tie-ups for active days.

Velcro buckle options with soft insoles are perfect for tender feet, as they prevent pinching and are comfortable for the entire year. Highly durable labels like Puma, Skechers and Reebok are part of the offering. Girls get to choose Disney-themed footwear with icons like Barbie, Cinderella and Hello Kitty.

The highlight of Splash’s Back To School selection is trendy superhero rucksack designs as well as caps, slingbacks, pouches and headphones. The assortment features Barbie, the Smiley family and Hello Kitty for teens to flaunt their new supplies as they start a fresh academic chapter.

Starting August 1, customers who spend BD25 at Centrepoint get a Bluetooth speaker or headphones for BD1 only. The offer is valid until stocks last.

Centrepoint has three stores across Bahrain: City Centre Bahrain; Oasis Mall, Muharraq and Oasis Mall, East Riffa.

Visit www.centrepointstores.com or Facebook page www.facebook.com/ CentrepointME/. www.bahrainthismonth.com

suvfeature

THE LATEST SELECTION OF SUVs

Land Rover Discovery

Go Big or Go Home Lets kick off with the petrol-guzzling monsters – full and mid-sized models that command respect both on- and off-road.

Land Rover Discovery No list would be complete without the Land Rover Discovery and, although it may have divided critics with its polarising looks, there is no doubting its capabilities. Now in its fifth generation, the seven-seater leans firmly towards the premium end of the market and that’s before you’ve even looked at the options list.

Available with a choice of engines, maximum power delivery is guaranteed and its off-road prowess has been praised, thanks in no small part to the dramatically reduced weight. There are several different modes in the Terrain Response system including auto-steering trailer assist, low-speed off-road cruise control, and low-traction launch, all of which add to its dynamic appeal.

Porsche Cayenne

They’re versatile, powerful and stylish – and SUVs have a huge fan following around the world. BTM rounds up the most popular models making headlines across the globe.

Whether you’re looking for a big, bulking beast or a cool, compact crossover, there is no dearth of options to choose from. Smartphones, smart TVs – it seems everything is getting smarter and cars are no exception. With a plethora of infotainment and safety system options, the latest SUVs not only look great, they perform well and are packed with more technology than you can shake a selfie-stick at! www.bahrainthismonth.com

Porsche Cayenne The Cayenne is forging ahead with a sharper design, intelligent driver assistance systems and even more efficient drive components. And, thanks to the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system – including a navigation module, for enhanced infotainment – this model is simply the bee’s knees.

The precise lines make it evident that this is a sports car with character and stature. The sporty side contouring and wheels with attractive styling serve to emphasise the car’s dynamics. Unsurprisingly, this mode boasts a 3.6-litre V6 that provides ample power for even the most discerning drivers.

August 2017 59

suvfeature Mercedes GLS Whether put to everyday use or venturing off the beaten track, the GLS meets all your needs. A dynamic exterior combined with a revised, luxurious interior underscores the impressive character of the GLS. As standard, the new GLS is equipped with Attention Assist. This feature can monitor the steering behaviour of the driver to recognise typical signs of drowsiness and give a visual and acoustic warning of impending microsleep, improving safety, especially on long journeys and at night.

Further, with nine forward gears the automatic transmission introduces a whole new dimension of efficiency, comfort and dynamism, its makers say.

Shifting gears slightly, the compact SUV segment has its own loyal following. People love the capability of off-road vehicles but often don’t want to deal with the cumbersome manoeuvrability of full-sized models.

Volkswagen Tiguan The Volkswagen Tiguan features innovative technology, upgraded offroad capabilities and a new striking design, allowing drivers the freedom to navigate the urban jungle with confidence. Immediately exuding a powerful presence, the new model is noticeably streamlined, sharper and even more precise in design than its predecessor.

It is packed with cutting-edge technology with engines ranging from a 1.4-litre with an output of 150bhp, up to a 2-litre 220bhp. Further, six- and seven-speed dual-clutch gearboxes (DSG) with 4MOTION are now offered for the first time The vehicle’s safety features, convenience, infotainment options and overall drivability are without question. These include the 12.3-inch Active Info display – an interactive, fully digital main instrumental panel and a Head-Up Display, offered for the first time in a Volkswagen SUV. Nissan Kicks The Nissan Kicks is a crossover with class in abundance. The model aims to enhance performance and manoeuvrability thanks to its tough exterior and its implementation of ‘Nissan Intelligent Mobility’ (NIM).

NIM uses smart technology that appeals to young drivers and aims to reduce stress through innovations such as the Around View Monitor (AVM) and the Moving Object Detection system. Using four cameras, placed at the front and rear of the car and in both door mirrors, AVM creates a 360-degree view of the car, which can be displayed on the central monitor and used as a parking aid.

Safety is undoubtedly a huge factor and is an area in which this model shines. Active Trace Control is an innovative way to prevent a sudden loss of grip while driving as it works by applying brakes to wheels individually making it more stable on the road. Similarly, Active Ride Control, helps stabilise the car if it hits any bumps or anything that will cause a ‘bounce’ effect on the suspension by applying the brakes for a split-second after the encounter.

Ford Edge Ford has a long history of SUV leadership and, when Edge was first introduced a decade ago, it proved a utility vehicle could meet the demanding needs of an everyday commuter.

This upscale crossover delivers premium levels of comfort, sophisticated driver assistance features and class-leading driving dynamics and, as an added bonus, it cuts an imposing figure.

Wheels pushed out to each corner give a wide, aggressive stance and help maximise interior space. The raised ground clearance enhances offroad capability, and delivers a seating position for a commanding view of 60 August 2017

Mercedes Benz GLS

Volkswagen Tiguan

Nissan Kicks

Ford Edge

the road.

For 2017, the Edge adds more technologies, featuring the latest generation of Ford’s communications and entertainment system, SYNC3, which has integrated the use of Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Siri Eyes Free.

So, whatever your preference, there are plenty of models available to suit almost every taste and budget. www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOTORCITY

Safety First!

Subaru XV

The latest model from this leading marque is making quite an impression thanks to its innovative array of technological features.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Subaru XV has been revamped for the first time since its launch in 2012 and is now built on the brand’s ‘Global Platform’ architecture, enhancing the body and chassis rigidity and strength.

This cool crossover SUV not only has a sporty look, it is versatile too – fully at home both on-and off-road thanks to the all-wheel drive system. Furthermore, it boasts enhanced safety features, upgraded interior space, and improved torsional rigidity, making it a force to be reckoned with.

It carries a new, direct fuel-injection, two-litre Boxer horizontally opposed engine that is 12kg lighter than the previous unit and now capable of 154bhp at 6,000rpm and 196Nm at 4,000rpm.

The second-generation XV also comes with a new X-Mode, a push-button system that enhances off-road capabilities and a suite of world-class safety and hazard-avoidance features that includes Subaru’s EyeSight driving assistance system.

EyeSight acts as a ‘second pair of eyes’ for drivers by employing stereo colour camera technology to monitor the road and traffic ahead for potential hazards. EyeSight’s two colour cameras are located on either side of the rear view mirror to detect the presence of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and other hazards up to 110 metres in front of the car.

Subaru analysed a range of traffic accident data involving the company’s vehicles from 2010 to 2014, and found that when measured in terms of accidents per 10,000 vehicles, models equipped with EyeSight had 84 per cent fewer rear-end collisions than those without. The adoption of EyeSight resulted in 62 per cent fewer vehicle-to-vehicle collisions and a 49 per

cent reduction in vehicle-to-pedestrian crashes.

It features technologies to maximise safety, including pre-collision braking, pre-collision throttle management, adaptive cruise control, lane departure, sway warning, and lead vehicle start alert.

The new XV has won the brand a place in the Wards Auto Top 10 Best Interior Design awards in 2017. The interior panels are finished in mixes of black and silver, as are switches, the steering wheel, and door inserts. It also has orange stitching running throughout the cabin from the seats to the steering wheel, gear-shifter and centre stack.

With its sportier and more surefooted driving characteristics, the Subaru XV represents a fresh approach to design embodied in an adventurous spirit by the Japanese car manufacturer.

Call Motorcity on 17 736-222 to book your free test drive or for more information.

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motoring

FERRARI TRIO

A Tremendous Trio Dick Potter took a sensational selection of Italian stallions for a spin around the UAE, putting these mean machines well and truly through their paces.

Let us suppose for a moment that, quite like the tooth fairy, there existed a Ferrari fairy, or in the Arabian Gulf, a genie even. If this mythical being grants you three wishes you could do no better than ask to test drive the Ferraris, 488 GTB, 488 Spider and GTC4 Lusso!

Hey presto! Transported to Dubai to receive my granted wishes, the 488 GTB was the first of the trio to be duly presented by my magnanimous genie. Its stunning monochrome exterior was only matched by the beautiful and luxurious interior; buttery soft, tan coloured leather seats with orange double stitch trim provided me an exquisite and surprisingly spacious cockpit for the day.

The 488 GTB’s name marks a return to the classic Ferrari model designation. The 488 ensues from its 488cc per cylinder, whilst GTB stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta. Powered by a 3.9-litre twin turbocharged engine, it is smaller in displacement and higher in output than its predecessor’s (the 458) naturally aspirated engine.

Taking this beauty to Abu Dhabi provided me the perfect route to put it through its paces. The new

3902cc V8 turbo with 661bhp makes it the new benchmark for this kind of architecture. Ferrari’s engineers took ample time perfecting the car’s sound too, creating a new soundtrack that is as distinctive as expected from any Prancing Horse engine. It not only delivers unparalleled performance, it also makes that extreme power exploitable and controllable to an unprecedented level, even by less expert drivers such as myself. It seems the 488 GTB wasn’t named ‘Supercar of the Year’ in 2015, by Top Gear magazine for nothing!

I awoke to the arrival of the 488 Spider on day two of my wish list. The impressive gunmetal grey exterior was only surpassed by an interior designed to underscore Ferrari’s Formula 1-inspired philosophy of creating a seamless relationship between driver and car. Exquisitely finished in supple, burgundy leather, this Spider is only 50kg heavier than its GTB sibling.

The Spider is the latest chapter in Maranello’s ongoing history of open-top V8 sports cars and results in what the talented folk at Maranello consider to be their most powerful and innovative Spider ever. Since I really wanted to hear that V8 sing, a trip to Fujairah was deemed a fitting journey to test in full the RHT (Retractable Hard Top), around which this entire car was developed.

Ferrari 488 Spider

62 August 2017

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At the very heart of this beautiful car is, of course, the twin turbocharged V8 engine. Thanks to a maximum power output of 670cv and the smooth, progressive torque delivery in higher gears provided by the Variable Torque Management system, my Spider sprinted from 0-100kmph in three seconds flat. It goes without saying that this ‘sprinting’ is best tested far from the prying eyes of cameras of any kind! Surrounded by nature’s spectacular sand dunes with their undulating shapes and colours whilst accompanied by the inimitable Ferrari engine throaty roar, the Spider proved an exhilarating — if somewhat UAE hot-ride.

Alas, the final day of my three wishes arrived. The prospect of driving the GTC4 Lusso proved a fitting antidote to my disappointment at this extraordinary trip coming to an end. The car’s exterior came in a dark blue three-layer finish, whilst its interior was equally special, picking up the theme with its main white leather seating offset by blue leather detailing.

The new Ferrari GTC4 Lusso is Maranello’s latest interpretation of the all-wheel drive, four-seater concept, combining extraordinary performance with luxurious comfort. Its performance figures are those of a true thoroughbred sports car, with a 680bhp V12 engine giving a maximum speed of 335kmph and acceleration from 0-100kmph in just 3.4 seconds flat, the car proved incredibly versatile to drive: it was equally at home in sports car mode as it was in more GT-type contexts, such as Dubai’s city centre or on the longer journey to Umm al Quwain. Furthermore, driving on the highway allowed for the ubiquitous Ferrari lion-like roar during acceleration.

This receded to a subtle yet potent cat-like purr whilst motoring through the city centre.

It was impossible to ignore the crowd-stopping allure all three cars possessed and there was no greater arena for this than Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Highway. I was aware of

Ferrari 488 GTB

the envious glances each one of my exquisite fleet garnered every day as I journeyed to and from my hotel. I must confess that this road was just a tad out of my way – but hey, you’re driving a Ferrari, why wouldn’t you opt for the long route home?

Whilst Enzo Ferrari allegedly claimed that “most things can be said in a few lines”, I would beg to differ as the sheer, heady and euphoric experience of driving these beautiful cars cannot be narrated in a few lines.

If you need further information on any of them – or if that elusive Ferrari genie fails to materialise – Euro Motors, Bahrain’s distributor for Ferrari, will be more than happy to fill you in.

Ferrari GTC4 Lusso

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2017 63

motoring

Audi RS 3 Sedan

AUDI CENTRE BAHRAIN

A Stunning and Powerful Drive CHARLIE HOLDING The latest offering from this marvellous marque exudes appeal and screams sophistication.

64 August 2017

The Audi RS 3 is the first compact Audi sedan to bear the RS label and it sets the bar pretty high for all that dare follow in its footsteps.

It’s easy to understand the immediate appeal of this model; I mean, come on, just look at it! It’s pure brawn, aggressively styled and packed with sporty character but it doesn’t lack finesse by any means.

Smooth lines, clever contours and flared wheel arches make it a real sight to behold.

As you would expect from Audi, the interior is pure luxury and each element has been clearly thought out. Black fine Nappa leather sport seats with RS logos on the backrests are standard but there are more contoured RS sport seats with integrated head restraints available as an option.

There is an abundance of technology to make driving this sleek sedan even safer, more enjoyable, and, convenient. I must mention how well everything was laid out, user-friendly, easy to use – top points.

The infotainment system in the model I drove is also worth bragging about. It had all the usual suspects, radio, Bluetooth, CD player, reverse cameras etc., but what makes this car special is that customers who opt for MMI navigation or MMI navigation plus can use the diverse range of online services provided by Audi Connect. They include, amongst other things, travel, parking and traffic information, access to Twitter and your email inbox, as well as navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View.

Services are displayed on the MMI screen in the car and are operated via the multifunction steering wheel, the rotary/push-button control or by voice command.

This lets drivers continue to devote their full attention

to what is happening on the road.

Let’s discuss what’s under the bonnet – the new 2.5litre TFSI engine, which outputs 400bhp, making it the most powerful five-cylinder engine on the world market. To put that in perspective, it makes the dash from 0-100kmph in just 4.1 seconds but, trust me, it feels much quicker than that when you’re behind the wheel. Perhaps that’s because of the phenomenally fast S-tronic seven-speed dual clutch transmission?

Since this model has a low centre of gravity, the handling is fantastic and I felt safe and secure taking even the sharpest corners. One of my favourite things was the different driving modes – comfort, auto and dynamic. While in dynamic mode, you can fine-tune the car to deliver the drive you want by adjusting the steering suspension and other features. Fantastic!

I had great fun driving along the highway.

Overtaking was smooth, the ride was comfortable and the generous amount of torque guaranteed I had the power I needed. I switched from automatic to manual a few times and really enjoyed using the paddle shifters.

I had slightly less fun while cruising around the winding back alleys of Adliya. Although tight turns were met with confidence and parking was incredibly easy, I unfortunately had to put the brakes to a very real test. Luckily, they passed with flying colours – special shout out to the guy who was intently looking at his phone while running out into the middle of the road – I hope your Tweet was worth it!

Call Audi Centre Bahrain on 17 459-933. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Maryke Kennard

Khalid & Tiffany

Animania 2017

Animania 2017 took place at the Bahrain International Circuit Zahra, Ali & Zahra

Ali, Hussain, Hamza, Aymen & Aja

Mohammed, Salman & Ahmed

Fiza & Abiha

Maram

Marwa & Yousif

www.jfcbahrain.com

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August 2017 65

motoring AL HADDAD MOTORS

The Beast from Green Hell

Sir Jackie Stewart famously called the Nurburgring Nordschleife racetrack a Green Hell, no doubt because of the complexity and danger that wait at every corner.

Nordschleife is more than 22km long with 187 corners of varying speeds as well as bridges, inclines and long straights – perfect for putting the most amazing sports cars through their paces.

It’s only fitting then, that Mercedes AMG packed so much motorsport technology into the new AMG GT R. In fact, the exclusive ‘AMG Green Hell Magno’ special paintwork leaves no doubt as to the sports car’s origin,

having spent most of its development time at the Nurburgring racetrack.

“We have defined every single component dedicated to performance.

The result is an overall composition that perfectly reflects our motto: ‘handcrafted by racers’. Developed straight from the racetrack on to the road, this unstoppable machine is a car you need to experience firsthand,” says Imran Sakhawat Ali, marketing manager, Al Haddad Motors.

The front-mid-engine concept with transaxle, the twin-turbo 585bhp V8 engine, the extensively modified suspension, the new aerodynamics and the intelligent lightweight construction laid the foundations for a dynamic driving experience. This beautiful beast makes the dash from 0-100kmph in just 3.6 seconds and can reach a top speed of 318kmph.

Drivers can tailor the car to their personal preferences using the AMG Dynamic Select controller. Various modes are available: ‘C’ (Comfort), ‘S’ (Sport), ‘S+’ (Sport Plus) and ‘I’ (Individual). The “RACE” mode optimally adjusts the shift strategy of the dual clutch transmission to the needs of racetrack usage.

The interior, unsurprisingly, is also inspired heavily by motorsport. The low seat position integrates the driver into the cockpit and extremely light, manually adjustable AMG sports bucket seats come as standard in GCC markets. Alternatively, tried-and-tested AMG performance seats can be ordered as an option at no extra cost.

Call Al Haddad Motors on 17 785-454.

Sai & chef A

Derek & Kaye

Bingo at Bennigan’s Bennigan’s restaurant hosted a 4th of July USA Independence Day celebration party with bingo at its premises in Juffair.

Bingo grand prize winner, Derek, with Bennigan’s staff

Suvendo & Honey

66 August 2017

KM, Sunny & Gerlie

Sunny & chef Marjohn

AJ

CJ & Rick

Yan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Grow up.

Get a job.

Starting from BD 16,495

Drive

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

motoring

EURO MOTORS

Members Moving Forward Petrolheads with a penchant for sheer driving pleasure met recently to discuss expansion plans for their exclusive club.

68 August 2017

Euro Motors held its first annual BMW M Club member meeting at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. A regional representative joined the members for an official discussion on progression plans. Topics such as club awareness and recruiting more members in the Kingdom were on the agenda.

The BMW M Club Bahrain, which comprises 70 aficionados from across the Kingdom, was officially recognised last year by the premium automotive company’s global headquarters in Munich.

Characteristic of the global following amassed by the brand, the BMW M Club Bahrain offers admirers and owners of the brand several opportunities to congregate for interactive drives and stimulating group discussions. The certification empowers the club to organise activities, discussions and debates in collaboration with the BMW Group and Euro Motors.

The branch was the newest to join a group of 700 BMW clubs around the world. It officially elected its board members and named Shaikh Salman Rashid Al Khalifa as the president of the club.

HE Shaikh Salman says: “The first BMW M car I owned was the M Roadster in 1999 and I have been an ardent advocate of the brand ever since. We are a young club and, hence, very fortunate to make the ranks of BMW clubs around the world. As a collective, we have tried to elevate the BMW M experience by using our combined experience and resources to learn and enjoy it more. It was truly an honour to be part of the first annual meeting. It gave the club a chance to be a part of a very important discussion on future progression plans on both a regional and global scale.”

Paul Yates, general manager of Euro Motors, says: “BMW constantly inspires admiration from automotive enthusiasts and we were delighted that the BMW Group officially recognised this

passionate group of owners in Bahrain. This synergistic partnership paves the way for increased grassroots engagement with our client base whilst giving motorists access to global best practices and a range of benefits based on the BMW Group International Council guidelines. This first annual meeting was a platform for club members to have an in-depth discussion with a regional representative to discuss progression topics such as future growth and actions needed to take the club to the next level.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringnews&launches

Redesigned and Re-engineered National Motor Company launched the 5th generation Honda CR-V. The model boasts new styling, a premium interior, additional features and technologies and comes in three grades – DX, EX and Touring.

At the heart of the 2017 CR-V is a 2.4-litre DOHC, direct injected i-VTEC engine that generates 184bhp and 244Nm of torque. It is mated to a continuously variable transmission with Honda G-Shift control logic.

The body and chassis design provide more agile and confident handling, greater drive refinement and superior overall versatility, its makers say.

The CR-V heads in a fresh direction with sharper front-end design elements such as aggressively styled headlights surrounded by wingshaped LED daytime running lights on all grades.

This model features the latest in connectivity and audio performance.

The DX has a five-inch colour screen and the EX and Touring grades have seven-inch touchscreen displays with an Android operating system that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto platforms.

Trucks Launched Mohammed Jalal & Sons – Automotive Division has reintroduced JMC trucks to the local market.

Customers can now enjoy high specification JMC models that are versatile and engineered with American and Japanese technology, here in Bahrain.

A range is available – from light to heavy-duty – with 2.4-litre to 3-litre diesel engines. Built to GCC standards, they boast a loading capacity range of 2.5 tons to five tons, with a short or long chassis that can be purchased with or without a carrier.

Packed with Technology Y.K Almoayyed & Sons has launched the sleek new Renault Megane.

Driver safety and comfort are top priorities for this leading marque, with this model being packed with assistance technologies. Highlights include an electric parking brake and a blind spot monitoring system, which warns drivers about potential collisions. Further, it was awarded a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. The Megane has a stylish interior with a panoramic glass sunroof and the driver’s seat boasts a massage feature. Total control over the vehicle is a touch away with a tablet touchscreen. Using voice control, you can access and manage navigation, telephone, media, driving assistance technology, and various other services.

70 August 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Progressive Design The new Volkswagen Golf GTI was presented at a gathering for Volkswagen club members and Golf and Scirocco owners.

Felix Miranda, brand manager at Volkswagen, Behbehani Brothers, says: “The Golf GTI is progressive in its design, with an agile daily drive that excites. The new model offers new technology and safety features that set the bar within its segment.

Our customers can enjoy technology such as gesture control – a first for hot hatch models in the region.

“Beyond a powerful daily drive, the safety features offered set benchmarks in its class – drivers behind the wheel of a GTI on the roads of Bahrain can enjoy five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, thanks to the innovative safety features such as front assist emergency brakes, blind spot sensors and German engineering.

During the past 10 years the Golf GTI and Golf R have witnessed phenomenal success in the Kingdom.”

The Final Stretch

The Genesis G80 Sport has made the finals of the 2017 International Design Excellence Awards – the results of which were still being decided when BTM went to print. The awarding organisation praised the model for its elegant, powerful lines and athletic appearance.

The needs of the driver are combined with cutting-edge technology,

while an emphasis on the brand’s Korean heritage creates a meaningful balance between luxury and respect for the individual driving the car, its makers say.

“Our brand is built on design and the balance of beauty and functionality,” says Luc Donckerwolke, head of Genesis Design. “The G80 Sport being named a finalist in the prestigious International Design Excellence Awards is validation of those efforts. Genesis Design is inspired from pure expressions of inner beauty, which embody the perfect harmony between engineering and design. It’s great to get support from others in the design community for something that we’ve put so much passion into.”

Underneath its attractive exterior, the G80 Sport’s 3.3-litre directinjected, twin-turbocharged V6 engine boasts 365bhp and is paired with a sport-tuned eight-speed automatic transmission. Supported by an upgraded suspension system, this robust new powertrain delivers superior driving dynamics, improved ride compliance and sport agility.

Charitable Donation Seef Properties has donated two vehicles to local charitable organisations. A Toyota mini-bus was donated to the Saudi Bahraini Institute for the Blind and Kia handed a saloon to the Bahrain Association for Parents and Friends of Disabled.

The ceremony was attended by representatives for all parties. Mohammed Al Jowder, chairman of the Saudi Bahraini Institute for the Blind, expressed his gratitude to Seef Properties for their generous donation, which will assist in transportation of students to and from the institute.

The vice chairman of the Bahrain Association for Parents and Friends of Disabled, Abdul Rahman Al Sayed, also thanked the company for donating the vehicle, which will be used to transport members of the association to provide homecare for people with special needs.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2017 71

bystander

DJ Mike, Stevie & Guido

Fiona & Alex

Wembley Friday Brunch

Atiram Premier Hotel held its weekly Friday brunch at Wembley.

Prakash, Henry, Taral, Rita, Namita & Henry

Fiona & Eliott

Iain, Cristina, Nathan, Donna & Stuart

Harold, Jasmine & Nick

Hanna & Lisa

Allison & Nicole

Haley

Rosey & Jerry

J & Amal

Said & Damian

Mo & Aya

Premier Hotel held a CODA Lounge Jazz Night Atiram Jazz night at CODA Lounge.

Dihann Moore & the Shegroove Band

Jamelo, Dave, Yasmina, Abu & Sammy

72 August 2017

Zee, Amith, Jea, Sooraj & Neraj

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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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

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

ORKA Smart Water Bottle Track your water intake with this bottle. It keeps you hydrated because a Bluetooth signal will be sent to your phone and syncs your intake data, keeping you updated on your hydration level.

Available at www.gadgetflow.com

Polaroid Play 3D Pen This device allows you to draw and create three-dimensional images and structures. The pen comes with access to a Polaroid Trace App, so you can bring up a stencil to ‘trace’ from on your smartphone or tablet.

You can trace over it and create the pieces to assemble incredible 3D models. Alternatively, you can free-draw a model for yourself.

Available at www.red5.co.uk

JAR Password Device

Thermo Projection Clock

You can replace all of your passwords with this hardware. Instead of using passwords to access websites, you can log in or register with the touch of your finger.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk

This weather clock displays the time along with temperature, humidity, day and date. It will also project the time anywhere you want, whether that be the wall or ceiling, thanks to its adjustable projection arm.

Available at www.gadgetflow.com

Tranquil Moments Bedside Speaker The speaker maximises sleep relaxation. The brain will try to match the rhythms of the sound you hear on this speaker and coax you into an ideal sleep. Just twist the dial to choose any tune from the 12 digital sound programmes. The speaker will slow playback gradually over 30 minutes and lull you to sleep.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk 74 August 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Lightning Lamp One touch of the cylinder will make the lightning streams race to your fingertips. The science-inspired mood light will also create a lightning storm within itself at the touch of a button.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk

Digital Luggage Scale This device allows you to pack your bags with confidence, because it gives you the exact weight of your suitcase every time. No more panicking at the check-in desk and stuffing as much as possible into your hand luggage! The scale is safe and easy to use – insert the scale belt through the handle of your luggage, lift it up and the LCD screen will display the weight up to 50kg.

Available at www.red5.co.uk

Mind Sword Lots of tricks can be performed with this sword, from levitating it to your hand to pulling it out of a bottle with the power of your mind. Of course, there’s a secret trick to it, but don’t tell your friends that!

Available at www.thegadgetflow.com

VaporisR Nano A remote-controlled vehicle that can tackle snow, ice, mud, water and tarmac with ease. Not only that, but it’s fully amphibious, so it can handle ponds and lakes too.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2017 75

music

Jay-Z – 4:44 What’s the story?

4:44 is the 13th studio album by American rapper Jay-Z. The album features guest appearances from Frank Ocean, Damian Marley, Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s mother, Gloria Carter. 4:44 was written when Jay-Z woke up one morning at 4:44am, and recorded the album at his house using wife Beyoncé’s microphone.

Worth a listen?

From any other artist, 36 minutes of repentance, self-satisfaction, and disclosure regarding issues such as faithfulness, vast wealth, ethical consumption and the deficiencies of a younger rap generation would likely fall flat, but Jay-Z continues to write at a Hall of Fame level and raps with high levels of conviction, contrition and wit.

The whole album has a fine matte-like finish with nuanced rhythms and soul, funk, reggae, and prog samples that frequently enhance the tracks on an emotional level, not just a sonic one. Filled with references to profit and forms of pride granted by birth and earned by hustling, 4:44 nonetheless is an unglamorous set well suited for solitary and reflective late-night listening. There are no radio play bids. Jay-Z has been in this mode at various points, but never in such concentrated, enlightened form.

Verdict: A personal and passionate medley of tunes.

Shorts

Melvins – A Walk With Love & Death Billed as the first double album in the Melvins’ threeplus-decade history, A Walk With Love & Death isn’t so much an album long enough to require two discs as it is two albums that have been presented in one package, each with a very distinct aural personality. The first nine tracks of this package have been given the subtitle ‘Death’, and they sound very much like the Melvins, with plenty of crunchy downbeat guitar figures from King Buzzo, sharp and muscular drumming from Dale Crover, and thick, powerful basslines from Steven McDonald.

That is not at all the case with the 14 tracks under the subheading ‘Love’, which consists of non-melodic noise soundscapes, with random noodling combined with found sounds, unidentified ranting, sound effects, and electronic distortion. They remain effective for only so long, and as a complement for the ‘Death’ half of the album, they wear out their welcome long before the last track is over.

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Broken Social Scene – Hug of Thunder The fifth full-length outing from the substantial Toronto collective – this iteration of the band is 15 strong is a dense, soul-searching blast of civic-minded indie rock/ alt-pop comfort food. The 12-track set is mired in the cultural and political miasma of its time, although it forgoes some of the elongated, atmosphere-driven instrumentals that peppered prior outings. Things escalate quickly with co-openers ‘Halfway Home’ and ‘Protest Song’, two of the punchiest things the band has offered in years, before mellowing out into more traditional fare.

Little Barrie – Death Express Over the course of a decade and a half and four albums, Little Barrie have proven themselves to be masters of the power trio. They throw the blues, hard rock, psychedelia, and good-old album rock in a blender and end up with a brew that’s both familiar and sounds sparklingly new. Their fifth album, Death Express, is the first that Little Barrie produced themselves, and it’s their most immediate and atmospheric yet. Recording at their own pace in their practice space, the band members were able to spend time honing their songs and sound to a fine point. When they emerged, it was with a batch of songs that bludgeon the listener with heavy riffs and thunderous drums, the moody tunes creeping in the shadows while sporting a menacing snarl. The album is long at 20 songs, but to the trio’s credit, the energy never flags. www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games Review Game: Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy Rating:

What is it?

The classic first three Crash Bandicoot games from the 1990s are back in remastered form, exclusively for PlayStation 4 – right back where Crash belongs!

Included in the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy are completely remade versions of Crash Bandicoot, Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, and Crash Bandicoot: Warped.

Gameplay:

As in the original games, Crash uses Verdict: A sensational slice of nostalgia. spinning and jumping techniques to defeat enemies, smash crates, and collect items such as Wumpa Fruits, extra lives, and protective AkuAku masks. The Graphics: trilogy adds new features across all three games, including unified Simply fantastic. Remembering old levels you used to play as a child, checkpoints, pause menus and save systems – including both manual only with a fresh coat of paint, is a wonderful nostalgic experience. and automatic saving – time trials, and the ability to play most levels Levels are pixel-perfect recreations, from the location of pits, in each game as Crash’s sister Coco. enemies and even crates, so they feel exactly as you remember. A The games have aged brilliantly considering how much the medium slew of new animations has been added and the voice work and has progressed since Crash’s heyday. The jumping feels as intuitive as music redone to bring the more dated aspects of Crash into the ever, and the level design fits perfectly into place like rhythmic puzzles.

21st century.

Micro Machines World Series

The legendary racing franchise Micro Machines returns, bringing gamers massive amounts of miniature multiplayer mayhem!

Classic game modes like Race and Elimination are back, as well as the new Battle Mode.

Meanwhile, Team Play lets you work together using any of 12 vehicles’ unique skills with modes such as ‘King of the Hill’ or ‘Capture the Flag’. The game supports up to 12 players online and four players on the same screen, across a variety of racing and battling environments. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age is a remastered version of the classic RPG Final Fantasy XII. Once again taking players into a dense world plunged into political strife, gameplay features include the Active Dimension Battle system enabling players to move seamlessly between exploration and combat. Characters act according to an intricate ‘gambit’ system of actions and reactions that you determine. As they fight, characters earn licence points that can be spent to broaden their knowledge.

Nex Machina

Nex Machina is an explosive top-down arcade shoot ‘emup created with competition in mind. Players must survive the mechanical onslaught of hundreds of evil robots trying to obliterate any threat to them, while harvesting oblivious humans. The game is a voxel shooter where everything can be blown to pieces, and it’s packed with opportunities to create your own playstyle, face tough challenges and engage in a ruthlessly competitive environment.

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websites

Zaviyar Ali Chachar Soars Past 1!

VERDICT: A time-sapping online encyclopaedia.

Ali and Sania hosted their son, Zaviyar’s first birthday celebrations at the S Hotel. Family and friends gathered for a hot air balloon themed gala with loving vibes, great food and lots of laughter. Happy Birthday, Zavo!

Sania, Ali, Zaviyar & Sameera

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

This website is dedicated entirely to explaining how things work. If you are interested about anything from airbags to regenerative medicine to velocipede carousels, then this is the place for you.

The Good Kanishk, Ali, Zaviyar, Mona & Kunal

The site covers so much that it’ll be hard to run out of things to read about.

The articles are very detailed and laden with scientific knowledge, but there’s also a basic explanation too for those who don’t want to go way in over their heads.

The Bad

The search function is relatively poor, which is disappointing considering the layout and theme of the website. Often if you search for something, it won’t find what you’re looking for unless you fill out further parameters or spell something exactly right. There are also no clickable links within articles – unlike Wikipedia, for example. So you have to type them in the search bar themselves.

Randa & Sania

Roshaney, Maria, Sania & Zaviyar

Sheetal, Rehana & Sameera

www.waitbutwhy.com Every week or so, a man named Tim Urban churns out a long, interesting article. They’re always full of fascinating, in-depth, and well-written analysis. His writing style is the perfect mix of informative and humorous – making topics like the Fermi Paradox approachable for someone who has never heard of it before. He writes about relationships, religion, outer space and pretty much everything else. Perfect for killing a bored lunchtime.

www.games.sense-lang.org/EN_BalloonG.php For those in office-bound jobs looking to improve their typing, this website might be a good port of call. Sense-Lang’s Balloon Typing Game is one of the simplest.

Balloons with letters on them float down your screen, and your job is to burst them by hitting the right key before they reach the bottom. Hit the wrong key or you’re too slow, then you lose.

Edsel, Tina, Dolly, Mona, Kunal & Haider

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

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

What is it?

Your phone battery is dying. There is barely any juice left and you don’t think it will last more than a text or two. Last Message runs in the background of your device, monitoring your battery, and will text, email, Facebook message, or Tweet the friends and family you select to alert them when your phone is about to die.

The Good:

If this scenario is familiar to you more than you’d wish, Last Message is a must to avoid frustration when you’re typing a final message and your phone suddenly switches off. You can personalise your away message any way you’d like and even choose at what percentage you’d like the app to send the message.

App: Last Message Rating: Verdict: A good idea in principle, but missing key features.

App: RadioPublic

With more than 250,000 podcasts and 15 million episodes, finding something you actually want to listen to when you’ve exhausted your favourites can be a daunting task. RadioPublic functions like Pandora for podcasts. Pick a handcrafted playlist based on a number of themes and listen for as long as you want. You can simply push play and listen to an endless stream of more than one billion minutes of podcast content available online.

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The Bad:

The worst aspect is that, bizarrely, there’s no WhatsApp support. As the most widely used messaging app in the world, it’s a strange oversight and will put many off. I also had trouble getting a test Facebook message to work, so I’m not sure I’d fully trust it to work in an emergency situation.

App: Runtasty

Runtasty combines delicious, dietician-approved recipes for all aspects of your day with step-by-step prep videos and kitchen hacks that actually deliver on their simple promises. From fluffy protein pancakes and mixed salad with steak and avocado, to mango coconut chia pudding and pesto salmon with veggies, Runtasty has all the assistance you need to fuel workouts, eat healthier and prepare a meal quickly. www.bahrainthismonth.com

movies

Film: Spider-Man: Homecoming Rating:

VERDICT: An enjoyable reboot for the web-slinger.

InterNations Welcome Event

InterNations Manama hosted an event to welcome summer at Café Italia.

George, Michael, Feras & Terry

Directed by: Jon Watts Starring: Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Robert Downey Jr

The Plot:

Thrilled by his experience with the Avengers, Peter Parker returns home, where he lives with his Aunt May, under the watchful eye of his new mentor Tony Stark. Peter tries to fall back into his normal daily high school routine – distracted by thoughts of proving himself to be more than just your friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man – but when the Vulture emerges as a new villain, everything that Peter holds most important will be threatened.

Leo & Mansoor

Najla & Hanan

Worth Watching?

Homecoming is a witty, briskly paced romp that captures everything that has made Peter Parker and his costumed alter ego such a lovable and enduring character for over half a century. Holland plays the character well, with his exuberance, intelligence, and good-natured manner perfectly. Keaton has an excellent turn as Vulture, with a backstory that makes you sympathetic to his plight, if not his methods.

The action scenes are fine, if not spectacular, and reinforce that this movie is at its best when the focus is on the character-driven, road-toacceptance comedy drama and not the digital Spidey swinging around.

Cars 3

Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves.

To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician with her own plan to win, inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet, and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage.

Sharmila, Berna & Theresa

War for the Planet of the Apes

Caesar and his apes are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless Colonel. After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind. As the journey finally brings them face to face, Caesar and the Colonel are pitted against each other in an epic battle that will determine the fate of both their species and the future of the planet.

Thomas, Cindy

Thomson & Lucia

80 August 2017

Rashid

Etienne

Paul

Diana & Nicole

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING

DESERT PARADISE Behnaz Sanjana took a long drive from the city lights to this idyllic resort restaurant set in the wilderness for a fantastic start to the weekend.

T

he approach to Keizo, the Oriental dining outlet nestled deep within the tranquility of the Al Areen Palace Hotel & Spa, itself is a romantic ride. Winding through some camera-worthy landscaping on a golf cart brought us to a man-made moat, which girdled the grand structure of the eatery.

My partner and I were greeted by the welcoming restaurant supervisor, Rio, who ushered us to our table.

Keizo’s ambience is as impressive as its menu, which offers a wide range of Asian fusion cuisine. Japanese, Thai, Malaysian, Chinese and Indonesian dishes fill the pages, and the knowledgeable Rio was able to guide us through the various courses.

We started with ebi tempura. Ebi is a Japanese style of ‘butterflying’ shrimp; ours was coated in a generous, crisp, fried batter.

The calamari tempura took me back to the afternoon I spent lounging around at a beach shack in Bali – nowhere else have I had squid that has such perfect bite inside a crunchy golden exterior. The spicy mayonnaise and sweet chilli dips were ideal complements.

The sushi that followed was fresh, light and www.bahrainthismonth.com

pleasant on the palate. The Crazy Kani Maki Roll borrowed a subtle sweetness from the crab and avocado, while the Spider Maki Roll was an interesting combination of prawn, sticky rice and seaweed – all flavoured expertly.

We also shared a chicken tom yum soup, enjoying the slight twinge of heat that the brown broth brought to the taste buds. We worked our way through the tender chicken pieces, lime leaves, mushrooms, red chillies, lemongrass and galangal to slurp up the very last bits of this tangy-spicy concoction.

After a brief breather, we went with the suggested mains – grilled lobster for me and prawn in hot garlic sauce for my partner. All my fears of struggling with a crustacean on my plate were dispelled as soon as the course reached us – the lobster was neatly de-shelled, with its dressed head sitting pretty beside it.

The succulent white meat and the accompanying grilled vegetables were coated in a creamy teriyaki sauce that did not overpower the authentic tastes of the dish.

My companion’s plate was a bright one – stirfried prawns in a smooth and vibrant red, sweet chilli gravy. It gave off just the right hint

ALSO THIS MONTH: 82 FUN, FLAVOURFUL FARE 86 LUXURY HAS A NEW RESIDENCE

of pungency to offset the mildness of the seafood and the nuttiness of the steamed rice that accompanied it.

All this delectable food had reduced our ravaging appetite to a craving sweet tooth, and, needless to say, Keizo did not disappoint.

The mango cheesecake stood on a deliciously dense biscuit base, and was generously topped with small cubes of fresh mango and chopped mint leaves. I must say the pairing was a match made in heaven – for both the gustatory and the olfactory senses.

The lemongrass crème brûlée was probably one of the very few that I have ever wanted to polish off. Maybe it was the understated flavour and fragrance of the herb emanating from below the glassy sheet of torched sugar that did the trick.

We left the grandeur of the location, making a mental note to return and relive this gastronomic experience under a gazebo on the picturesque outdoor terrace of the restaurant.

Now that would be something else to write home about.

Call 17 845-000.

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dining

BAHRAIN FAMILY LEISURE COMPANY

Fun, Flavourful Fare This popular global chain offers a scintillating selection that keeps guests coming back for more.

Bennigan’s is an Irish pub-themed casual dining restaurant chain founded in 1976 in Atlanta by restaurateur Norman E Brinker as part of the Pillsbury Corporation. Currently, it operates in 23 American and 39 international locations in eight other countries.

Legendary Restaurant Brands LLC now owns the franchise and continues with new chapters that reflect Bennigan’s history, while introducing a reinvented brand.

In 2001 Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC) brought Bennigan’s to the Kingdom. The award-winning restaurant – located at Al Safir Hotel, Juffair – serves up American-sized portions with Irish hospitality.

The menu features something for everyone and offers great value for money. From appetisers to 82 August 2017

pasta, steak and, of course, world famous dishes like the Monte Cristo sandwich and the County Clare Sampler, there is plenty to be enjoyed.

If you are a fan of contests, then you’ll love the 1kg steak challenge, which is available all year round. Win, and you get a Bennigan’s knife, a T-shirt and a 25 per cent discount coupon for your next visit. Winners also make their mark at the restaurant by having their photo placed on the ‘Wall of Heroes’.

On weekdays, the restaurant is open for breakfast at 6am, with special rates up to 11am.

Happy hours take place from 3pm to 7pm and live band Back in Trackz plays from 8pm to midnight. Monday is karaoke night and a wide variety of special offers are available every day.

From food to beverages, Bennigan’s has a plethora of promotions.

For those who want to enjoy the brand’s tantalising trademark flavours from the comfort of their own home, the restaurant offers a

delivery service.

Bennigan’s provides a taste of home for Irish and American expatriates living in the Kingdom. The venue celebrates special holidays like St Patrick’s Day and US Independence Day. From September 3-5, the restaurant is offering a special discount for Americans celebrating US Labour Day and is making big preparations for ‘Half Way to St Patrick’s Day’ with games and prizes.

Meanwhile, the Juffair branch was named as the most lucrative in terms of revenue worldwide last year and, no stranger to accolades, it has received numerous national awards in Bahrain voted by the public.

As a result of the overwhelming success of the Juffair venue, BFLC plans to open another branch at the Gulf Suites Hotel, Amwaj Islands, in the coming months.

Call 17 813-750 or email marketing@bflc.com.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining K HOTEL

Spoilt for Choice This elegant dining hotspot in Juffair offers your palate a trip around some of the world’s favourite cuisines throughout the week.

Get ready to experience the most delectable global flavours at The K Hotel’s signature restaurant – Kolors. This popular eatery hosts delicious theme nights from Sunday to Thursday, between 7pm and 11pm.

Diners can enjoy a spectacular feast prepared by an expert culinary team. Live cooking stations are the highlight of the experience, allowing guests to choose from the island’s freshest produce to create their own dish. The delightful buffet provides a selection to suit all tastes at remarkable value for money to keep patrons returning for more.

Savour hearty American cuisine at Kolors from Sunday to Tuesday, every week. Relish burgers, steaks, hot dogs and other delicacies from the West at half price – BD6++ instead of BD12++. Monday nights come with a bonus, with succulent ribs

included in the promotion, guaranteed to make for a perfect night out.

Every Wednesday, the venue offers an Asian-themed buffet night at BD6++ per person. Diners get to sample dishes from Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Pakistan, Japan and China – great for the indecisive amongst us.

Enjoy Thursday evenings with ‘Flavours of the Gulf’. Offering tantalising starters, main courses and desserts, prepared with the finest local ingredients for BD12++. Guests can look forward to the freshest, premium, imported seafood, including a wide variety of oysters, Boston lobster, prawns and king crabs, all cooked in Arabic style. Round off your meal with a wide selection of sumptuous sweets.

Kolors also offers an exciting, fun brunch on Fridays for BD16.500++ with soft drinks and selected beverages for an additional cost of BD7++.

Call 17 360-000.

Khaled & Gem

Kenza Anniversary Party The K Hotel celebrated the first anniversary of Kenza Lounge.

The cake-cutting ceremony

Khaled & Anne

John, Ness, Azwar, Kireslin, Joana, Jelly & Ashish

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Rose, Jane & John

Jhen & Vilma

www.bahrainthismonth.com

WHAT’S NEW AT McDONALD’S®?

We strengthen our commitment to you and your family, to be better every day. Here’s how:

Our fried food trans fats content reduced to 0.01%.

Our cooking oil is now a lighter sunflower and canola oil blend, with an 80% reduction in saturated fat content. .

Our classic mayonnaise recipe now contains 50% less calories and (here’s the best part) the delicious taste you love is just the same.

Our fish in the classic favorite Filet-O-Fish™ is now sourced from well-managed fisheries that only use sustainable fishing practices.

Every day, a better day. Only at McDonald’s.

Is our food Halal certified? What makes our chicken patty taste so good?

What about those rumors about our beef? What do you really know about our food?

We know you have questions, and we have answers.

That’s why we created the interactive online platform “Your Right To Know”, where you can post your question – ANY question – and we’ll get right back to you with a detailed answer. Not sure of what to ask but still curious to know more? Browse through the hundreds of existing questions, asked by customers just like you, including live photos and videos from our suppliers, categorized to make it all the easier to get to the truth. We promise factual and transparent answers, no matter what you ask.

Visit www.mcdonaldsarabia.com/yrtk

We cherish your family time, at McDonald’s® Ten branches boast an exciting selection of activities for your kids

to enjoy all summer long! Join in the fun and let their creativity and imagination soar with our ongoing coloring competitions, where they get the chance to color in their favorite cartoon characters and enjoy a free ice cream cone, and maybe even win a t-shirt to match!

Is your child a fan of adventure, but it’s too hot outdoors? We’ve got the perfect PlayPlace® indoor soft-play areas (in select branches) that are sure to set them on a fun journey of discovery.

And if you have a birthday coming up, we’ve got you covered! Book your child’s birthday party now with our simple booking system and pick from two exciting themes, inclusive of invitations, décor, gifts, and more! Find out more on 17221722 Participating branches: Saar, Tubli, Oasis Mall (Riffa), Mercado Mall (Janabiya), Sanad, Exhibition Road, Busaiteen, Arad, Sultan Mall (Zayed Town), Adliya, Zallaq

dining RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA

Luxury Has a New Residence

Kumar Ashwani

This five-star property is a jewel in the crown for Seef district’s hospitality sector.

86 August 2017

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa in Seef offers idyllic dining and entertainment facilities for a memorable experience.

Ideally located, it is just a 15-minute drive from Bahrain International Airport and about two kilometres from the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

The newly appointed director of sales and marketing, Kumar Ashwani, is on a mission to reposition the property as the ultimate place for business and leisure in Seef.

“Ramee Grand can cater to all segments, no matter what our clients require,” he says. “We also have some of the best amenities for meetings, dining and relaxation.”

Having been in the industry for 22 years, Kumar has previously served InterContinental Hotels Group and Accor Hotels.

“My past work experience has helped my confidence when taking the plunge for my new role,” he adds. “I believe that my communication and organisation skills will give me an advantage with guest relations.”

An array of great promotions awaits guests every week for accommodation as well as treats at the eight food and beverage outlets.

The Local Vacation promotion gives you the chance to feel like royalty. Start your day by being picked up by a chauffeur-driven, high-end car; check into a deluxe room and enjoy dinner for two at any of the restaurants. Relish a sumptuous breakfast at Lemon

Tree before heading back home.

Lemon Tree also hosts the weekend Liquid Brunch, a concept designed to entertain all ages. For only BD13++, you can indulge in a multi-cuisine buffet and have access to the pool. Chef Anurag Sinha leads the culinary team to create gastronomic masterpieces.

Enjoy a beverage counter along with live cooking stations serving sushi, pasta, curries and quesadillas.

There is a kids’ corner for food and mascots dressed as children’s favourite characters. Scintillating live music is provided by the Prime Time band.

Rasoi has introduced the Weekend Biryani Feast, which will transport you to different states of India with authentic flavours and aromas of the traditional dishes. Chef Kuldeep Raturi has prepared a tempting à la carte menu, which includes variations such as the Hyderabadi, Mopla, Kolhapuri and Kaikari Biryani.

It runs on Thursdays and Fridays, from 7pm-11pm.

Ruka, the hotel’s Japanese lounge and restaurant, has introduced a membership card for its valued clientele. Guests can save up to 20 per cent on orders and also have a chance to win a one-night stay.

The property is within walking distance of Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain, and near all major shopping arcades and local attractions. The hotel offers worldclass features and services, which include 166 rooms and suites, with exclusive access to the club lounge, spa, fitness centre and the infinity swimming pool.

Call 17 111-999. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

Heroes of Hospitality Meet the two experts working behind the scenes to maintain the glittering reputation of this four-star hotel’s dining and leisure outlets.

Managing the diverse kitchens of Atiram Premier’s eateries is executive chef Om Prakash.

He is in charge of costing, sourcing the ingredients and planning the menus of Wembley, Coda Jazz Lounge and Cavallo, as well as the cuisine selection for banquet hall events.

Om considers maintaining the quality of food to be his biggest challenge.

“We make daily rounds every morning to get fresh seafood, vegetables, fruits and grains,” he says. “If the food is subpar, people will stop visiting.”

Om started his career in Novotel, Oman, after completing a year-long diploma in Delhi, India.

“I’ve been with Atiram for the past two years and consider it as my greatest career move yet,” he adds.

A nutritious menu has been introduced at Wembley to cater to the health-conscious.

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Wembley manager, Stevie George, works tirelessly to keep up the reputation of the upmarket sports bar.

“I put a lot of effort into greeting as many customers as possible, to see that Wembley is providing the services to the level they are expecting,” he explains.

“I also try and spend time speaking with all of my staff, which is an invaluable side of the business.”

Being a renowned disc jockey for 26 years, he has an immense knowledge of the entertainment sector.

“Having worked with many different bar and club managers over the years, I’ve developed the necessary know-how to be of benefit to the industry,” he adds.

Stevie enjoys the satisfaction of serving and bringing joy to his guests, and says: “I love the unrivalled interaction I get to have with such a diverse range of people. Yes, the hours can be long and unsocial, but can also be very rewarding.”

Stevie George

Chef Om Prakash

Call 17 811-811.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

AUTHENTIC FLAVOURS

Discover the taste of true Italian cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients for the modern palate at Otto – the new concept from Bahrain’s homegrown hospitality company, Al Abraaj Restaurants Group. The menu features freshly made bruschetta and salads along with an exciting array of handmade sourdough pizzas. Also on offer are breakfast delicacies that include an assortment of savoury and sweet dishes, as well as fresh smoothies and juices. It is located in Hamala Hills and is open from 8am-11pm.

Call 17 336-622.

COFFEE ON THE GO As part of its support for local start-ups, Zain signed an agreement with Wheelys Bahrain to open a branch in the ground floor reception area of Zain Tower in Seef District. The Bahrain franchise of the Stockholm-based café concept began operations just this year. The eatery serves light refreshments, with the menu featuring iced lattes, doughnuts, milkshakes and sandwiches.

Follow Instagram @wheeleyscafe.bh

FROM ITALY TO BAHRAIN For a short time, chef Enrico will serve a hearty feast at Rosso, ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands. He will whip up 12 types of freshly made pastas using his family’s secret recipes, which were passed down to him from his greatgreat-grandparents. Influenced by four generations of authentic Italian cuisine, expect it to be a memorable experience. The promotion starts from August 28, 5pm-9pm, every Monday. It is priced at BD7++ with a welcome drink or BD12++ with house beverages.

Call 16 000-111.

MIDDAY RENDEZVOUS Indulge in a mid-afternoon treat at the Ritz Gourmet Lounge with your favourite tea, and pair it with a selection of delectable mini cakes, savoury finger sandwiches and melt-in-your-mouth scones. It runs weekdays from 2pm-7pm, starting from BD18++.

Call 17 586-499.

When? Every Monday Event? Burn the Bill Venue? Links, Royal Golf Club Dine between 6pm and 9pm and you could win a free meal.

E Call 17 751-262.

When? Every Friday Event? The Sweetest Brunch Venue? Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre Indulge in a sumptuous brunch from 12.30pm-4pm, priced at BD18++ onwards.

E Call 17 171-144.

When? Every Saturday Event? Back to the 80s Venue? Primavera, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Enjoy old-school tunes while enjoying a special apertiivo menu created by chef Alfonso Ferraioli.

E Call 17 586-499.

When? Monday-Thursday Event? Khantok Sharing Concept Venue? Wok, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Enjoy a tasteful mix of Asian flavours with a unique sharing platter priced at BD40 for four people.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? Every Wednesday Event? Unlimited Roasted Ribs Venue? Le Sauvage, The Domain Hotel and Spa Tuck into ribs with garlic bread, coleslaw, mashed potato and spicy fruit salad.

E Call 16 000-000.

When? August 3-24 Event? Bahraini Mania Venue? Fusions, Gulf Hotel Bahrain Enjoy delicious fusion Bahraini food with a twist.

E Call 17 713-000.

SO ‘MUSH’ FUN

When? August 14-18 Event? Indian Independence Week Venue? Saffron, Al Areen Palace & Spa A special a la carte menu with a selection of specialty kebabs and biryani can be had.

E Call 17 845-000.

Bushido Restaurant will be celebrating the exceptional umami flavours of the humble mushroom through a unique festival, known as Kinoko Matsuri in Japan. No one knows exactly how many varieties of mushrooms exist in nature; however, there are about 10,000 known species in North America alone. Dishes from the menu include the delicious Kinoko Sake Roll, the scrumptious Okinawa Salad and the tasty Wok Spicy Chicken.

Call 17 583-555.

When? August 25 Event? Back to School Brunch Venue? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Celebrate the end of summer with a delightful brunch for BD35 per person, running from 12.30pm-4pm.

E Call 17 531-122.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2017 89

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Affordable Luxury Esprit’s SS17 theme ‘Dream State’ features spherical shapes combined with pinkish to cloudy-white natural stones and lustrous pearls. On the other hand, ‘Energetic Leisure’ highlights marbleised stones and surface contrasts, as seen with natural howlite and sparkling zirconia in this piece.

Available at A La Mode outlets.

Strut in Style Look chic and sophisticated this season with Aldo’s new line of shoes and accessories. Go from day to night with studded flats and embellished sandals in nude and pastel shades, pairing them with elegant jewellery.

Available at Aldo, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

Making a Splash The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver introduces its nonchronograph model in exciting colours, just in time for summer.

Proposed in white, dark blue, acid yellow, lime green and bright orange, the new models are fitted with matching rubber straps and an additional blue one for each version.

Available at Audemars Piguet, Moda Mall.

Iconic Bags Be the talk of the town with CH Carolina Herrera’s new exotic editions of Masa and Tempo bags – a Middle East exclusive!

Amongst other glamorous options, they feature delicate details in python with Denver leather in natural or bronze tones.

Available at CH Carolina Herrera, City Centre Bahrain.

Rule the School Get kids ready for the new term with Cath Kidston’s back to school range. Kit them out in a padded rucksack or novelty backpack featuring the brand’s iconic prints. Partner it with matching pencil case or lunch box to complete the look.

Available at Cath Kidston, City Centre Bahrain.

90 August 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace ELAMES LIGHTING

Revamped with Bright Solutions This leading lighting company has overhauled its showroom and features the latest and brightest trends and designs available in the industry.

Karolina Kuzel

Lighting Advert - Arabian Homes (half page).indd 1

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Elames Lighting, established in 1995, is a division of Behzad Group, opened to complement the group’s commercial activities. Over the years, the company has partnered with groups and supplied products for various projects of different sizes both nationally and internationally.

Elames Lighting’s showroom manager, Karolina Kuzel, says: “At Elames, we always expand our product range, not only to meet but to surpass customers’ requirements. Our modern showroom serves the needs of designers and private customers alike; and displays hundreds of products manufactured in Europe and around the world.

“We have focused on improving the layout by classifying various sections to enhance the shopping experience. Our staff has extensive experience and can offer expert technical and design advice. The team will listen to the needs

of each individual customer and select the products that are best suited. We work hand-inhand with our clients to understand project needs and goals, with the ultimate aim of achieving a unique and cost-effective solution.

“Whether you are looking to build or move to a new home or are simply just planning to renovate, our team will take care of all your lighting needs. Elames Lighting offers solutions that can transform any space and create the perfect ambience.”

Elames supplies both internal and external lighting, as well as technical and decorative products. Projects have related to hotels, palaces, commercial offices, showrooms, warehouses, residential buildings, and private villas.

Recently, Elames has been working to promote solar lighting solutions, leading the way in costeffective environmental conservation.

Call 17 703-336 or visit @Elamesbsc on Instagram.

7/23/2017 3:32:17 PM

August 2017 91

marketplace KING ABDULLAH MEDICAL CITY – UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTRE

A Surgical Solution Dr Syed Mohsin Ali, consultant orthopaedic surgeon, explains how surgical intervention helped in giving a teenager his life back.

The 15-year-old boy from Sudan was born with a club foot on his right leg. The condition, known as congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), is a deformity involving one or both feet in which the affected foot appears to have been rotated internally at the ankle. Without treatment, people with club feet often appear to walk on their ankles or on the sides of their feet.

During his early life, the youngster underwent multiple castings and surgeries in an attempt to correct the problem.

Unfortunately the treatments were not completely fruitful and gradually, as he grew, the deformity became worse and in the last few years he was experiencing difficulty in walking and taking part in sporting activities. Finding suitable

footwear was also an issue.

Eventually he visited King Abdullah Medical City University Medical Centre and, after a detailed assessment and investigations, was recommended to undergo surgical correction.

Surgery was carried out and the patient went home the next day with a cast. Two weeks later, his stitches were removed and he was advised to start walking in the cast.

After four weeks he was able to walk without the cast using only a plastic splint for a further two weeks and now he can walk with a much improved gait. He can play any sport he wants and finds it easy to buy footwear.

I am very thankful to the parents and patient that they showed full confidence in our centre and, Alhamdulillah, both family and patient are very pleased with the outcome.

Call 77 310-000.

Dr Syed Mohsin Ali

Patient is unable to touch his heel to the ground with foot rotation. In orthopaedic terms this is known as equinus-cavus foot deformity.

Post-operative correction. Now the heel is touching the ground with satisfactory alignment of the foot.

Heba & Nadira

Zaheer & Kumar

Sameer & Abdulla

Ameena & Maryam

Sheraton Arabian Nights

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel held an exclusive launch for its Arabian Nights at Al Safir restaurant.

Christalyn, George, Khalid & Bambie

Prashanth

92 August 2017

Layal & Rami

Noora & Ameena

Fatima & Huda

Shaz & Aniqa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

A Poetic Garden of Gems This French luxury brand’s latest jewellery is an ode to nature, where each piece offers a unique vitality, embellished by the craftsmen’s savoir-faire.

Capturing the true essence of spring, Van Cleef & Arpels revisits the Frivole collection to bring a new dynamic to its pure and luminous style. Nine stunning, original creations range from single flowers to shimmering bouquets, each model lighting up the skin with its precious brilliance.

The pieces – in which heart-shaped petals are arranged three-dimensionally around one or three diamonds – are characterised by their interplays of reflections and geometric lines. They showcase an original variation in gold, a new size and, for the first time, bracelets of ethereal lightness.

Yellow gold paved with diamonds makes its appearance in the collection, with small model earrings and a large pendant, as well

as a Between the Finger ring. This dazzling piece depicts two asymmetric corollas, echoing one another on either side of an open band. The radiance is accentuated by the quality of the diamonds, selected by the maison’s experts in keeping with the highest standards: D, E or F for colour, and VVS for clarity.

Delicate creations – earrings in yellow gold or white gold and diamonds – make their debut in the collection, offering a ‘stud’ format that completes the existing range. This new size extends to a pendant and a bracelet with chains, available in both colours of gold. For the first time in the line, the bracelet is adorned with a single motif to embellish the wrist with grace and delicacy.

Frivole was launched recently and is available at Van Cleef & Arpels boutique in Moda Mall.

Call 17 131-122.

Apple & Roula

Frivole Launch

Van Cleef & Arpels launched its Frivole collection at its boutique in Moda Mall.

Samar

Roula, Samar, Sadiq, Jude & Bindhya

94 August 2017

Between the Finger ring, yellow gold & diamonds.

Sadiq, Apple & Bindhya

The Frivole collection

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MERCURE GRAND HOTEL SEEF

Happily Ever After You deserve the very best on your big day with your significant other, and this hotel is committed to ensuring just that.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef is as passionate as you are about making your wedding festivities an immense success. The four-star property seeks to exceed guests’ expectations with an eye for detail and efficient facilitation of their celebration.

The traditional Arabic interior of Neyran, the hotel’s main restaurant, provides the perfect ambience for a grandiose reception. The food and beverage team is dedicated to giving newly married couples a supreme experience from start to finish.

There are three wedding-bundle offers for clients to choose from, depending on their preferences and budget.

The Gold package, priced at BD9.999++ per person, includes a buffet dinner inclusive of seven cold appetisers, five main courses and four desserts, along with soft beverages and a two-kilogram wedding cake. The bride and

groom can take advantage of the venue’s complimentary executive one-bedroom suite with VIP amenities, an international buffet breakfast for two in the room, as well as special room tariffs for family and friends.

The Platinum package features a sumptuous dinner spread inclusive of 12 cold and two hot appetisers, eight main courses and five varieties of desserts, besides all the provisions of the Gold package, at a price of BD13++ per person.

The Diamond package is priced at BD15++ per head and offers 12 cold and three hot appetisers, three seafood corners, nine main courses and seven dessert options. Apart from the amenities of the former two packages, a six-kilogram wedding cake and chilled juices are provided.

With its convenient location and warm, friendly service, Mercure Grand Hotel Seef promises that it’s the ultimate destination to celebrate life’s milestones.

Call 17 584-400.

are planned with

Mercure For Inquiry: 17 58 44 00 MercureSeef

MercureSeef

www.bahrainthismonth.com

GrandMercureSeefAllSuites

Starting from 9.999 BHD August 2017 95

marketplace ELAMES

New Designs, Affordable Prices Functional and beautiful kitchen and bathroom designs require proper planning and attention to detail.

Elames is a one-stop destination that will help you to create the perfect space. Its recent showroom upgrade incorporates all the latest trends and designs in luxury bathrooms, kitchens and tiles. The company has a long history of supplying the luxury market sector in Bahrain and continues to bring in the latest designs and technologies, including affordable products for most homes.

Osama Al Yahya, showroom manager at Elames, says that the company’s focus is to provide customers with the latest designs and technological options through exclusive deals with international manufacturers and brand leaders. “The showroom plays a big role as a guide to customers and shows what is available,” he explains. “It is important to be able to provide them with design ideas and we have prices to suit every budget.

“The customer buying experience is the basis of how we have structured our new displays in the showroom. We have provided a perfect environment that reflects the real-life situations they will come across in their bathrooms or kitchens. It enables them to explore and helps them to choose the products that best suit their projects.”

Special promotions are a key feature of the showroom and one that is proving incredibly popular is a KOHLER complete bathroom solution starting at BD169. “With the guaranteed quality delivered by KOHLER, this offer can be considered the best value for money offer available in the market today with a world-leading brand and competitor-beating prices,” Osama says.

The Elames showroom has gone from strength to strength over the last 40 years and the constant investment and new products make it a must-visit location for anyone looking for a new bathroom or kitchen.

“Make some time, drop in for a coffee with

Osama Al Yahya

our experienced team and let us show you the best available products at affordable prices,” Osama adds.

Call 17 703-336 or visit @Elamesbsc on Instagram.

M Ozeir Sabih Khan Iftar

Dr Khurshid

M Ozeir Sabih Khan hosted a Ramadan Iftar at Lasani Restaurant for family and friends.

Ozeir & Sabihuddin Khan

Tayyaba, Sabihuddin, Kishwar, Wajiha with children Omer, Harim & Rania

Omer & Sabihuddin

Ozeir, Farhan & Abdulla

96 August 2017

Naseem

Mr Mughni

Raja, Tayyaba, Sabihuddin, Ozeir & kids

Mamoon

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace SYMMETRIA

Sending the Right Messages

Hadeel Saad

Dietitian Hadeel Saad explains the importance of parents’ attitudes to food in combatting childhood obesity.

Perhaps even more important to our health and well-being than what we eat is how we feel about what we eat.

Children learn from their parents’ behaviour, through both imitation and role modelling, and one study suggests that the degree of control over child feeding influences eating attitudes and beliefs within families from a very early age. Evidence also indicates that unresolved body image concerns and disturbed feelings toward eating and weight management can be passed down from one generation to the next.

Healthy mindsets and skills that can serve an individual well throughout life are difficult to teach for the parent with disordered eating.

98 August 2017

Behaviours such as eating rituals, obsessive preoccupations with food, and body image concerns, may distract parents from addressing their child’s need to learn about healthy eating.

Children notice when parents skip meals, restrict calories, purchase only ‘diet’ foods, exercise excessively, ritualise food intake, diet constantly and put themselves and their appearance down.

As health professionals, we need to help parents become more aware of their own attitudes about food and weight and help them become more knowledgeable about what physical fitness and healthy eating really mean.

Practitioners need to explain to parents that healthy eating does not mean dieting; they can eat moderately to satisfy hunger and not eat past the point of satiety. They also need to learn to choose wisely from a variety of foods they enjoy.

Furthermore, parents need to be encouraged to eat together as a family. Studies have shown that sitting down with the family as often as possible enhances the health and wellbeing of children. The dining table is the best place to discover what children are feeling and thinking not only about food and weight, but about life in general. Parents must also be mindful of the messages they convey concerning body image.

A parent who is constantly dieting or making jokes about being ‘plump’ is sending a message that thin is better. Parents should also avoid negative comments about their own bodies as well as the size and shape of others.

A child’s healthy body image is rooted in feelings of self-acceptance and self-esteem, not in relation to his or her actual size or shape. Helping parents stay emotionally involved with their children, especially teenagers and young adults, is very important.

The way you choose food and plan meals sends important messages to your child. By being thoughtful about what you eat and choosing options that are both tasty and nutritious, you let your child know that food is something that’s both enjoyable and fuel for the body.

The words you use to describe food send messages too. Avoid describing it as ‘good’, ‘bad’, ‘naughty’ and so on. You could try the terms ‘everyday’ and ‘sometimes’ foods instead.

Taking a balanced approach is helpful. This might mean enjoying your favourite treat – pizza, chocolate, potato chips etcetera – every now and then, but not all the time.

Eating when you’re hungry shows your child how to listen to their body’s hunger cues. This is likely to be healthier than ‘counting calories’ or eating when you’re bored, tired or down.

Involving your youngster in shopping for food and planning and preparing meals, gives them a say in healthy family eating. You could even get them browsing recipe websites for you. This taps into young people’s technology skills.

To motivate your child to make healthy choices, talk together about how food can help with concentration, performance and feeling good.

A cupboard and fridge full of nutritious snacks helps, as you won’t have to ‘police’ their choices so much. Some ideas are: fresh fruit, dried fruit and nuts, low-fat cheese and wholegrain dry biscuits, low-fat yoghurt, baked beans with wholegrain toast, low-fat fruit smoothies and vegetable sticks with low-fat dips. www.bahrainthismonth.com

JOZ SALON & SPA

Say ‘Allo to Aloe!

For centuries, civilizations have used pure, fresh aloe vera to help their skin look and feel healthy, youthful and beautiful. Reap its benefits and look 10 years younger.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Egyptians, renowned for their continuous quest for physical beauty, as epitomised by Cleopatra, used aloe vera for its moisturising qualities in their efforts to fight ageing.

Today, Forever Living Products has captured the full strength of the plant and blended it into one of the best facial skincare regimes in the form of Fleur De Jouvence – a fine collection of six wonderful components.

Displayed in an elegant container, with mixing spoon and application brush, each element is available separately. However, it is only through the combined use of all six that the full benefits can be enjoyed.

The package, which can give about 30 facials, includes: • Exfoliating Cleanser: First step – use in the morning and evening • Rehydrating Toner: Alcohol-free and contains aloe vera – apply morning and evening • Firming Foundation Lotion: Hydrating moisturiser that helps skin retain its appearance – apply in the morning • Aloe Activator Recovering Night Crème: Use generously after cleansing, before bedtime • Facial Contour Mask Powder • Instruction booklet explaining how to use the kit.

This facial regime is recommended two to three times a week to smooth to cleanse and tighten the skin while revitalising your appearance. Aloe Activator is a superb moisturising agent and is the ideal partner that works in combination with the Mask Powder. It is also extremely effective as a cleanser

and freshener.

Combine equal parts (one mixing spoon) of Mask Powder and Aloe Activator in a bowl until the mixture has the consistency of lotion. Use the applicator brush to apply a thin, even film from the neck upward.

Relax in a reclining position, limiting facial movement for approximately 15 to 25 minutes.

Put a moist towel on the face to soften the mask, then gently remove it and rinse with warm water.

Follow with toner and your favourite cream.

For additional benefits, use Forever Living’s Facial Fabrique Tissue. This revolutionary product heightens exfoliation by refining the pores and tightening the skin. Its unique layering design also helps to better absorb the many wonderful nutrients found in the brand’s aloe vera-rich moisturisers.

Who should consider and use this aloe vera facial kit?

Many people start to notice age-related changes on their faces, such as around the neck, mouth or under the eyes. Localised use of injectable fillers in those areas can address the issue. However, some people have concerns about the consequences and sideeffects. This non-surgical facelift and firming, natural facial kit is a real solution and many are starting to consider it.

Fleur De Jouvence is available at Joz Salon & Spa. Call 17 369-133, 16 031-120 or 17 756-449.

August 2017 99

marketplace

Power Plate

DESSANGE PARIS

Get in Shape!

Say goodbye to stubborn fat and hello to a trim body by using this advanced, scientific exercise to shed those extra kilos.

bicep curls, et cetera. This means your body does more effective work in a shorter time period with persistent muscle engagement.

Taking the fitness world by storm, Power Plate vibration training is deemed to be an effective workout and a great timesaver. But what are the benefits?

Bone Density One of the best things about Power Plate is that it is highly efficient at maintaining bone density to help prevent early onset of osteopenia (weakening of the bone). That’s because the vibration, along with loaded activities, increases the body’s rapid reflex response and blood flow to the affected areas.

Muscle contractions generated through shaking exert force, stimulating growth of bone tissue. Combined with stronger muscles and improved balance, the risk of falling is reduced, especially in the elderly. A study of women over 60 showed that those who did use vibration technology reported 35 per cent fewer falls and 52 per cent less fractures than those who didn’t. Their muscle performance also remained significantly better, even after they had stopped using the equipment for a full year!

Cardiovascular Rapid muscle contractions create enormous blood flow – more than traditional cardiovascular exercise. This results in speedy transportation of healthier blood throughout the body, giving you energy, reducing pain and soreness, as well as improving the body’s natural healing process for faster recovery times.

Detoxification and Immune Health The lymphatic is a complex system of ducts and nodes that drains toxins from muscles, while delivering antibodies to help fight disease. But it doesn’t have a pump, so it relies heavily on muscle activity to move the fluids. Therefore, it can get clogged up in people who are sedentary. The high levels of muscle contractions experienced on Power Plate stimulate the lymph to flush those nasties out, resulting in more energy and less sickness.

The shaking amplifies by a factor of several times any motion performed on a vibration plate, such as squats, lunges, pushups, ab crunches, 100 August 2017

Weight Loss Power Plate helps increase the body’s metabolism in conjunction with detoxification, and is the best method for quick and sustainable weight loss. Like any other form of exercise, training on the machine raises your metabolism. As your muscles get stronger, they use fuel more efficiently, and as your blood circulation and lymph drainage improve, you

have more energy and shed toxins. These developments encourage your body to burn calories faster, consequently increasing your metabolic rate, meaning you’ll lose more fat, even when you’re not working out!

One study of Power Plate users found they were able to shed twice as much belly flab within six months, compared to people who did cardiovascular exercise combined with weight training.

Hormone Efficiency: Mental Clarity, Better Sleep, Anti-Ageing Using the equipment regularly stimulates production of helpful hormones, especially rejuvenating ones that tend to decrease with age, such as: • Human Growth Hormone – helps in the repair and regeneration of damaged muscles, bones and other tissues • Testosterone – preserves muscle tissue and provides energy • Serotonin – responsible for feelings of happiness and wellbeing • Brain hormones – control memory and regulate sleep.

Vibration plate training also reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol, so you’ll have more energy to get back to the things you love.

It is available at Dessange Paris Bahrain.

Call 17 713-999. www.bahrainthismonth.com

CASA CUCINA

The Décor Fan’s Choice Pass through the doors at this recently opened store and you’ll find unique home décor collecitons.

Casa Cucina, from the well-known Kumar’s Group, is the ideal place for those seeking to make an individual interiors statement whether in the home, office or commercial premises.

The store offers luxurious and stylish options that are unique and elegantly designed to perfection from a range of renowned brands.

Casa Cucina is also home to an elegant range of artistic gifts boasting distinctive craftsmanship and style; a personal option for loved ones that will certainly capture hearts.

Even the hard to please and those who seem to have everything, are catered for with gifts that will allow them to make a lasting impression on their home, office, school, hotel or restaurant.

The brand’s philosophy is etched through customer satisfaction and a company spokesman says: “Casa Cucina believes the

lives we make with the people we love are what make life truly special. To us, the simple daily pleasures of home, friendships and family are as important as life’s big milestones. We want to give our valued customers outstanding high-quality products and guaranteed satisfaction for recommendations that lead to repeat orders.”

Build your home and kitchen with a personal

touch of unique and modern style with a visit to Casa Cucina. The showroom is situated in a prestigious location in the heart of Seef District, opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard.

For more updates on what’s available at the shop follow the store on Facebook and Instagram @casacucinabahrain.

Call 17 840-707 / 17 296-363.

RAYMOND

The Hues of Autumn The latest collection from this gentlemen’s outfitter brings to mind the golden glow of a mellow time of year.

Luxuriant, indulgent and light as a feather, Raymond Wool-rich collection is known for its supremacy and all year round comfort.

Apart from its rich texture and stylish good looks, Raymond has a range of 100 per cent natural wool, which is one of the most versatile fibres. The brand also has ‘Cool Wool’, as it’s fondly called, with a thermos regulation feature and excellent breathability is its ‘Superpower’.

With the range going up to Super 240s and 13.5 micron fibre, the finest in the world, the fabrics are woven with a methodical state of the art technology and contemporary designs making them a sophisticated choice for superior suiting. Known for its classy drape and elegant look, Raymond Exotic collection has fabrics that whisper on your skin.

Incorporated in 1925, the outfitter has always provided customers with world-class products. Kumar’s WLL represents Raymond with two showrooms at Exhibition Road and Al Hadrami Road, Manama.

The third grand showroom is now open in Seef offering premium suiting fabrics along with a made-to-measure concept. Visit the store opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard.

Call 17 296-363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2017 101

marketplace FRASER SUITES DIPLOMATIC AREA

An Oasis of Indulgence This classy hotel in the middle of the metropolis welcomes residents and vacationers to a serene sanctuary — with an exquisite offer for BTM readers!

The Haven Spa at Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area is a tranquil spot in bustling Manama, with luxurious offerings to leave you feeling completely renewed and rejuvenated.

The Moroccan hammam is a new addition to the spa menu here, and one that is guaranteed to be enjoyed thoroughly, thanks to the lavish pampering it entails.

The procedure begins with an exfoliating scrub using traditional black soap to leave your skin silken and squeaky clean, followed by a purifying body wrap that combines mineral-rich rhassoul clay and refreshing eucalyptus. And, finally, a choice of either a relaxing or revitalising massage to stimulate circulation and release blocked energy from the body.

One of the many plus points of the Haven Spa is its location – both for residents as well as overseas guests. Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area stands less than 15 minutes from the international airport and the shopping and business districts of Bahrain.

The property offers all the facilities of a top-notch five-star hotel, including an indoor pool, a modern gym, the Kids’ Club, and a sea view restaurant, besides the luxury boutique spa.

Moroccan hammam

The establishment meets the needs of busy executives, families and international travellers, exceeding their expectations with every stay.

Six bespoke penthouses occupy the top two floors of the towering structure, with sweeping views of the city and its glamorous skyline – an excellent choice for an ultra-refined experience in Bahrain.

Call 16 161-800, WhatsApp 33 621-016 or visit www.frasershospitality.com.

BTM readers can enjoy the 60-minute hamman treatment for BD25 instead of BD39 by mentioning the offer code BTM07.

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

A Pain in the Neck Orthopaedic surgery specialist Dr Sanjay Kumar on the scourge of a very modern ailment.

Text neck is the term used to describe the neck pain and damage sustained from looking down at your mobile, tablet or other wireless devices too frequently and for too long.

A recent study found 79 per cent of 18-44 year olds carry their cell phone at all times, with only two hours off during the day. And research among workers revealed that neck flexion greater than 20 per cent for more than 40 per cent of the day was a risk factor for sick leave due to neck pain.

The posture of persistent bending during texting causes a static muscular loading of the neck and shoulder muscles followed by soreness and pain. It is especially concerning because young, growing children could possibly permanently damage their cervical spines.

While text neck most commonly causes neck discomfort and soreness, it can also lead to 102 August 2017

upper back issues ranging from chronic, nagging pain to sharp, severe upper back muscle spasms, shoulder pain and spasms.

Some studies indicate it may also lead to the early onset of spondylosis.

Prevention • Hold your mobile or other screened device at eye level.

• Take frequent breaks from your device throughout the day.

• Ensure screens are set up so you are looking forward and avoid looking down with your head bent for extended periods.

Rehabilitation • Specific exercises to build strong core muscles – abdominal and lower back.

• Strengthening exercises to build flexible muscles around the neck to minimise strain on the cervical spine and help support the weight of head.

Those who do not respond with rehabilitation may require treatments such as manipulation

Dr Sanjay Kumar

techniques, massage therapy, physiotherapy and, occasionally, medication.

Call 17 812-000 or email sanjay.kumar@bsh.com.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

@BHThisMonth

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bahrainthismonth

www.bahrainthismonth.com

@bahrainthismonth

marketplace AMA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY-BAHRAIN

Substantial Upgrades for University This leading institution is revamping its facilities and undergoing extensive redevelopments for the new academic year.

As the study year 2017-2018 unfolds, AMA International UniversityBahrain (AMAIUB) is making significant improvements. A number of new initiatives aim to promote more opportunities and experiences that aid in the educational and personal growth of the students.

Since AMAIUB is home to a number of athletes who are part of the Kingdom’s national sports teams, there is a big focus on physical activities. There are a range of venues such as a basketball court, volleyball court and table tennis facilities, among others, and the construction of the football pitch is now finished and ready for use.

The University auditorium – used for seminars, workshops, conferences, lectures and other activities – is undergoing a major refurbishment and is scheduled for completion in September. The MBA Room is also being retrofitted. Further, engineering students will have an additional mechatronics lab that features cutting-edge equipment.

The Faculty Development Office, under the supervision of the vice president for Academic Affairs is working closely with the Higher Education Academy (HEA) in achieving a significant number of teaching fellowships. Some of the university’s faculty members are already fellows of HEA, while others are in the process of becoming members.

AMAIUB’s new strategic plan underscores the enhancement of its research culture and the establishment of international linkages with

The new football field is an addition to the university’s other sports facilities

reputable universities and international organisations. In line with this, AMAIUB’s Colleges of Engineering and Computer Studies have penned a Memorandum of Understanding with the Engineering Technology and Social Science Management Team of the International Islamic University of Malaysia to organise an international conference. This is an assurance of AMAIUB to the Kingdom’s academic community that its research goals are in accordance with the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and the Higher Education Research Strategy 2014-2024.

Registration is ongoing for the academic year 2017-2018, which begins on September 17.

Call 17 787-978.

AMERICAN MISSION HOSPITAL

Acing the Test This stalwart medical centre in Bahrain has recently added a prestigious new feather to its cap.

Dr George Cheriyan

104 August 2017

The American Mission Hospital (AMH) in Manama and its satellite branches in Saar and Amwaj Islands have been awarded Diamond status – the highest level of accreditation given to hospitals by the National Health Regulatory Authority of Bahrain (NHRA). A team of inspectors from this government body spent three days undertaking a plethora of checks, surveys and observations covering every aspect of the medical centre, from healthcare to financing and governance.

“By pursuing and achieving the Diamond status, American Mission Hospital has demonstrated that it meets NHRA standards of quality and is committed to pursuing excellence,” says AMH chief medical officer and CEO Dr George Cheriyan. “An organisation receiving this status has put itself through a vigorous peer review process, scoring above

95 per cent in a large number of categories, reaching far beyond simple healthcare. It has confirmed its commitment to offering programmes and services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality. We will continue to improve our standards and ensure that in three years, when we are accredited again, we maintain our Diamond status.”

This is not the first time that AMH’s work has been in focus. It has been recognised as one of the best regional hospitals by the International Socrates Committee based in Oxford, England. The same body has also previously honoured Dr Cheriyan with the Manager of the Year award.

The latest accolade comes as AMH is preparing to open a fourth clinic ­— in Riffa — in October this year, which will have a specialist physiotherapy unit and will feature the Kingdom’s largest hydrotherapy facility.

Call 17 177-711. www.bahrainthismonth.com

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

A Gem in the Desert This five-star property has an enticing offer tailor-made for BTM readers this month!

Located on the pristine beaches of Zallaq, overlooking the Arabian Gulf on the island’s west coast, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is often regarded as a piece of heaven in the desert. This stunning destination lets guests indulge in an idyllic escape, away from the humdrum of the city.

A special promotion awaits the readers of this magazine. Quote the code BTMAU99 during reservations to book a superior room with a mesmerising view for just BD99, valid throughout this month.

With values that extend from guest satisfaction to investing in innovation, Sofitel Bahrain constantly strives to be not only the leading resort and spa in the Kingdom, but the region as well.

This aim is achieved by providing proper, intense training for the staff. They are taught to adhere to Sofitel guidelines, learning unique

ways to interact with visitors in order to provide them with a memorable and bespoke experience.

Whether you plan to stay with family, friends or by yourself, the hotel’s team will go above and beyond to make sure all needs are catered to.

This is ensured through exquisite facilities that extend from the unique, award-winning food outlets that serve the most delectable

cuisine, to the pool area offering a panoramic view of the beach and its glistening shore.

The hotel’s Thalassa Sea and Spa, the only such facility in the Middle East, is a mystical getaway on its own. It has a host of treatments that use sea water and natural ointments to calm and reinvigorate your mind and body.

Call 17 636-363.

AL SAFIR HOTEL & TOWER

A Delightful Choice Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, this property in Juffair offers unbeatable hospitality and a plethora of dining and entertainment facilities.

Being able to accommodate a broad spectrum of guests, Al Safir Hotel & Tower takes pride in its motto, ‘hospitality is our heritage’. In the heart of Juffair, it is conveniently located in close proximity to Bahrain International Airport and the Diplomatic Area.

The first ISO-certified property in the Kingdom, it has two distinct buildings.

The hotel has 126 deluxe rooms and top-class services where visitors are guaranteed imperial treatment at competitive prices. On level 13 is a health club equipped with a gym, temperature-controlled indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam and Jacuzzi.

The adjoining tower offers both long-term lodging and leisure, providing the 68 residences with hotel facilities. Out of those, 24 are executive rooms, 39 are suites with the option of merging two to form three-bedroom accommodation, there are four VIP quarters and an Imperial suite with its own private pool.

Indulge your taste buds at one of the many gastronomic outlets, such as the all-day and speciality Arabic restaurant Savoy, Cucina Italiana or Bennigans.

“We are adding more entertainment facilities soon,” says general manager Naveen Narayanan. “We also have state-of-the-art meeting rooms for corporate and private events.”

Call 17 827-999 or email reservation@alsafirhotel.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2017 105

marketplace business bites

Herve Steps Up

Accepting the Challenges

Swiss-Belhotel International has announced the promotion of Herve Peyre as the area general manager for Bahrain. He has been associated with the group since September 2013 as GM of the company’s Seef property.

Elaborating on Swiss-Belhotel International’s rapid expansion in Bahrain, senior vice president Laurent Voivenel, says: “This latest development is part of our strategy to strengthen our management team in key growth markets such as Bahrain where we have extensive expansion. We will be tripling our inventory of rooms in the Kingdom this year with the opening of two new hotels early next year, namely Grand SwissBelresort, a five-star luxury resort, and Seef SwissBelresidences Juffair, an upper midscale hotel apartment complex. We are confident Herve, with his strong international and regional experience, is the ideal candidate to support our operations on the ground.”

Gulf Hotels Group (GHG) has reported its financial results for the second quarter of 2017 with Chairman, Farouk Y Almoayyed, announcing a gross operating revenue of BD18.386 million compared to BD16.382 million in the same period in 2016, an increase of 12.23 per cent. For the second quarter, the group achieved a gross operating revenue of BD9.043 million compared to BD7.804 million in same period last year.

The group generated a half-yearly net profit of BD5.869 million up 30.81 per cent on last year. For the second quarter of 2017 it achieved a net profit of BD2.559 million in comparison with BD1.750 million in 2016. However, the published profit for the half year and part of last year includes a one-time ‘Bargain Profit’ of BD6.126 million associated with the acquisition of Bahrain Tourism Company.

Commenting on the extremely challenging trading conditions in the sector, given the number of new hotels which have created ‘a huge over supply of bedrooms at a time of inconsistent demand’, Mr Almoayyed called on the authorities to take action in support of the hospitality sector. He added that though the group will continue to grow in Bahrain, it will also concentrate on external target markets such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The group’s CEO, Garfield Jones, expressed his satisfaction with the results, taking into consideration challenging market conditions, adding that refurbishment at the group’s Crowne Plaza hotel is expected to be completed by the end of the year and the 109-unit Gulf Executive Residence Juffair is expected to open for business by mid-2018.

Marking a Quarter Century Rotana group, which has three properties in Bahrain — Downtown Rotana, ART Rotana and Majestic Arjaan by Rotana — is celebrating 25 years of success and growth which has seen its portfolio expand from one hotel to more than 100, and counting.

Founded in 1992, Rotana started its journey with the opening of Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi the following year – the first in a series of modern, sophisticated hotels launched by the group.

Today, Rotana is the leading hotel management company in the region, with 56 operating properties in 21 cities across 13 countries in the Middle East, Africa and Turkey. It currently operates a total of 15,195 rooms and more than 11,000 people, from 104 countries, proudly work for the group which, to date, has welcomed more than 225 million guests to its hotels.

“It has been quite a journey these past 25 years, and a deeply rewarding one at that,” says Rotana chairman Nasser Al Nowais.

“What gives us the greatest sense of accomplishment is that we were able to become who we are today by holding firmly to our values, beliefs and the standards that we set for ourselves when we first started our journey.”

Rotana was one of the first hotel brands in the Middle East to introduce an ‘all suites’ concept, which was rebranded in 2008 to Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana. It was also among the first in the region to introduce a three-star affordable lifestyle hotel with the launch of Centro Hotels by Rotana in 2006.

As it completes 25 years of operations, the company has a strong pipeline with as many as 49 properties – located in 26 cities in the Middle East, Africa and Turkey – under various stages of development. Seventeen due to open before the end of 2018, adding a further 3,877 keys.

106 August 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

New Uni Course Launched

Call a Cab

In the upcoming academic year of 2017-18, the Arab Open University will run a Master’s degree in business administration, in cooperation with the Open University of Malaysia.

The programme offers a unique opportunity for those wishing to improve their competencies and organisational skills.

Bahrain branch director, Dr Khaldoon AbdulRazak Al-Roomi, says: “In light of the highly competitive business environment dominated by accelerating changes on sociocultural, economic, political and technological changes, organisations strive to survive through human resources as a core competency of creativity, innovation, devotion and leadership. It is therefore important to offer programmes for the development of these skills in such a way that they comprehensively contribute to providing added value to these institutions, as opposed to the performance of a limited assigned role.”

Careem, the leading ride-hailing service in the region, has announced its expansion into Bahrain.

The move comes in partnership with Arabian Taxi, which was established in the Kingdom in 2008.

Commenting on the occasion, GM of Emerging Markets at Careem, Ibrahim Manna, says: “Moving into Bahrain is a big step for Careem, falling under our plans and strategies for further expansion in the region, through which we have achieved a monthly growth rate of 30 per cent.”

Arabian Taxi MD, Tawfeeq Al-Qattan, adds: “Our partnership with Careem empowers stakeholders of the transportation sector to optimise their business model in line with the vision for future transportation in Bahrain. With Careem, we will be able to provide greater access to convenient, reliable, and quick means of transportation. Operators, whose numbers will be increased, will also witness a parallel increase in their earnings.”

Banking Accolade

Roaming Awareness Campaign

BBK, Bahrain’s pioneer in retail and commercial banking, has been awarded, for the fifth consecutive year, the title of Best Retail Bank in Bahrain by the Global Banking and Finance Review in recognition of its continued commitment to excellence.

BBK chief executive, Reyadh Yousif Sater, says: “We are proud of this independent evaluation by an international publication on the quality of retail banking services. This award confirms the value of the investments in the innovation and enhancement of our Retail Banking Services and the expansion of the network within the Kingdom, aiming to ensure convenience for our customers. Nevertheless, our commitment to employee growth and development through e-learning, leadership development and retail banking certifications is one of the main foundations of the bank’s success.”

Roaming charge-related complaints totalling more than BD40,000 in 2016 has led Bahrain’s Telecom’s Regulatory Authority (TRA) to launch a consumer awareness campaign, aimed at informing the public of the risks of roaming bill shocks and the options available to reduce mobile data and phone bills while abroad.

Though these issues made up only six per cent of all complaints during the year, they affect consumers the most in terms of cost.

“The amount of disputed claims remains relatively high, which urges us to continue educating consumers on how to avoid roaming bill shocks in the first place,” says Shaikh Nasser bin Mohamed Al Khalifa, deputy general director of TRA. “We’ve taken some significant steps in collaboration with our counterparts in the GCC to enable consumers with better roaming rates in the region by initiating the GCC roaming regulation which puts price caps on roaming charges. This has been in effect since April 2016 and costs will continue to decline every year until 2020. The focus now is to make residents in the Kingdom aware of how to avoid bill shocks, which this campaign will aim to achieve.”

TRA advises consumers to ask their providers what roaming charges to expect before travelling and what the charges will be at their destination. To be roaming ready, TRA also advises consumers to either subscribe to one of their provider’s data roaming add-on packages, connect to Wi-Fi where possible, or purchase a local prepaid sim card in the country they are visiting.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

August 2017 107

bystander Other Events

Prince Michael of Kent visited the UK Maritime Component Command in Bahrain and was shown around the building site that will soon become HMS Juffair, the permanent base for UK Naval Forces in Bahrain.

The Gulf Hotel Convention & Spa launched its Summer Cash Back promotion for the months of July and August.

The Gulf Hotels Group CEO Garfield Jones presented a check of BD1,000 to Child Care Home.

Abdul Awwal Sarkar, the head of the research department from the Central Bank of Bangladesh visited BIBF to discuss potential partnership and collaboration between the two entities.

Swiss-Belhotel International (SBI) signed an official management agreement with Hassan Lari Property Development & Management to operate Swiss-Bel Residences in Juffair.

From left to right: Ali Lari, Laurent Voivenel, Mohamad Lari & Hasan Lari

HE Zayed Alzayani, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism met with the Russian Minister of Culture during the launch of BTEA’s representative office in the Russian Federation.

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority CEO, HE Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, held a meeting with the Korean Ambassador, HE Koo Hyun Mo, to discuss cooperation in the tourism field.

The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya held a regular meeting at the Golden Tulip Hotel, with Bahrain Solar Industry Association representative, Vadlamudi P Raghu, as guest speaker.

InterContinental Hotel Group held its Ramadan Raffle Campaign draw at the InterContinental Regency Hotel. Both IHG hotels in Bahrain, InterContinental Regency and Crowne Plaza Bahrain participated in the campaign.

108 August 2017

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bystander Other Events

The year 10 GCSE business students and some of the year 7 students of the British School of Bahrain ran an enterprise day at its campus in Hamala.

Bahrain Bayan School enjoyed a two-week educational summer programme with Zain Bahrain.

Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) welcomed AMA University MBA students to their catering department.

City Centre Bahrain hosted and ‘Iftar Saem’ initiative, providing meals to all mall workers during the month of Ramadan.

Gulf Hotels Group presented a donation of BD1,000 to Hamad Town Charity Society.

The Rotary Club of Manama held its regular meeting at the Gulf Hotel, featuring Dr Rana Alsairafi, manager of the child abuse awareness programme, ‘Be Free’, which is part of the Bahrain Women’s Association of Human Development.

VIVA Bahrain reopened its flagship retail outlet at City Centre Bahrain.

Coral Bay Management held a business lunch for the media at Fishmania.

Music Festival

The Beat Beach Dance4Life music festival took place at Coral Bay. DJ VPMP3 & DJ Swing

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DJ Fawazo

Catrin & Anna

Shreen & Adel

August 2017 109

tarotscope

LEO

July 21 – August 21

This month your thoughts will be with a loved one who is far away but nevertheless on your mind more than ever. A planned family reunion that fell through back in April has left you thinking about what could have been and you still find it a sour taste to swallow. On a more positive note, recent health concerns will be alleviated and you can begin to look ahead with more confidence as you are once again given a clean bill of health. Just take note of the second chance you have been presented with and make better use of it. Late August will see a letter in the mail return some forgotten memories and a face from the past could soon follow your surprise in the post!

Card of the Month — The Two of Pentacles For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

Money, money and more money. August is the month that kicks off a very successful business venture and sees your finances prosper greatly. You may also find that several problems that have been dwelling on your mind of late will be resolved and you will spend the majority of this month in good spirits, with the promise of even better things to come. However, you should beware of family disputes that arise from idle words or perhaps even a jealous heart, which could dampen certain celebrations. Any links with the colour green or the number 13 will lead to an unexpected friendship being cemented late in the month and it could take you to some very interesting places.

Card of the Month — The King of Wands

LIBRA September 22 – October 21

Love is in the air this month and it will take many guises and have many positive outcomes. Some of you will find romance at work when a new colleague takes a shine to you and you soon realise the feeling is mutual. For those of you already involved, a relationship could be about to move up to the next level when you are approached about making a more serious commitment. Think hard – don’t let the warmth of the season influence your decision. You should know what you want as soon as the question is put to you. If you hesitate or suffer even a second of doubt, then you already have your answer.

Card of the Month — The Page of Cups 110 August 2017

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21 You may be planning a trip away in August, perhaps to spend time with relatives abroad, but caution is advised if taking along small children. Watch the youngsters closely since a wandering infant may give you cause for concern.

A rocky period at work could lie ahead and you are best to keep your head down and continue with your duties without paying too much attention to what is going on around you. As long as you do all that is required of you, you will ride the storm without too much bother. If you have any objects of art or family heirlooms then now would be a good time to seek out a valuation.

Card of the Month — The Four of Swords

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 A former partner is going to cause you a few financial worries as you head into August and you may be forced to seek legal advice if he or she does not adhere to their responsibilities. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind to get the issue dealt with but prepare for fireworks on the 15th when matters could come to a head. On the family front, responsibility for a planned get-together may end up in your lap when you discover that a sibling has pulled out because of a clash of personalities. On the work front, an interesting proposal on the 21st is worth considering. Just don’t take too long to decide because a challenger for the post waits in the wings.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Swords

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 August sees you finally putting the ghost of an enemy or rival to rest as the troublesome person finally moves out of your life forever. However, their departure could impact on a romance that has been developing well, with a secret coming out that is likely to cause great friction. Beware of the words you speak idly in dealing with this. Try to respond with a more measured reply or your comments could come back to haunt you. On a more positive note, employment matters see you moving into a new position or fresh areas of responsibility and, for the first time in a while, you will feel good about your work again.

Card of the Month — Justice AQUARIUS January 22 – February 21 Your world is likely to be disrupted this month as the pressures of family commitments and the expectations put upon you start to mount. It could well be that things will come to a head before the month is over and you may be required to keep your cool or risk a full-blown row developing. There is also a possibility that someone will take pleasure in making matters worse, so watch your back especially when around a blonde female friend who is not as loyal as she may appear. Better luck will be yours on the 19th when an unexpected financial bonus leaves you able to spend a little bit extra on sales.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Swords

PISCES February 21 – March 20 This month could see a new romance striking up and this may lead to a crisis of confidence for those of you who have not ventured into a relationship for some time. There is no question you want it but your natural insecurities combined with a prolonged period out of the ‘dating game’ could make you more cautious than you would like. My advice would be to simply let your natural personality come to the fore and everything else will happen without the need to overcomplicate matters.

Card of the Month — The Knight of Cups www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index ARIES March 21 – April 20 After a productive July you could see yourself hit a bit of a creative ‘brick wall’ this month. In part this could have something to do with an awkward exchange between you and a loved one that has left you a little unsettled. If you want to get yourself back on track then you need to consider putting the matter to bed by dealing with it once and for all. The implications extend far further than you might realise and if you let things drag on towards the end of the year then you might find others decide to take the initiative, which won’t help you at all in the long run. The way August pans out is in your hands.

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man

TAURUS April 21 – May 20

GEMINI May 21 – June 20 A recent loss in the family is only starting to emotionally hit you and it has triggered off a change in your inner-self. You may find yourself reflecting on life and thinking about the purpose you have in it and maybe even decide to make a career change. Any role in volunteer or social work might prove temporarily satisfying but the real need you have is for emotional fulfilment. If you are presently in a relationship, then it is worth reassessing the state it is in. Alternatively, if you are currently looking to begin a new relationship then tread carefully and do not rush in just to satisfy a desire.

Card of the Month — The Nine of Cups

CANCER June 21 – July 20 Although your general fortunes enjoyed a bit of an upturn last month, your mood could be more melancholy than usual and this will have a lot to do with your dissatisfaction with things on the work front. Those of you in a current position may be finding it all a little too dull and uninspiring and you should consider a change. Those of you looking for a new job may be frustrated by the lack of opportunities that have come your way but don’t be surprised if an unplanned meeting on the 10th opens a career door you may never have considered going through.

Card of the Month — The Three of Pentacles

Sandra Bullock

Ben Affleck

FAMOUS LEO THIS MONTH Madonna

Behbehani Brothers (Audi) . . . . . . 10,11

Centrepoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Behbehani Brothers (Porsche) . . . . IFC

Skechers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

EK. Kanoo (Motor City:Subaru) . . . . IBC

Financial Institutions

JAC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Citibank N.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Mohd Jalal & Sons (Suzuki) . . . . . . . . 49

Hotels & Serviced Residences

Others

Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Al Safir Hotel & Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . 41,88

Times may be tough out there for many people but this month you are set to enjoy a fabulous return on a recent investment that appears to have emerged unscathed from the credit crunch and its resulting impact. Just remember to give a little to those closest to you, who supported and stood by you when times weren’t so good. On the health front, get those twinges in your lower back or thigh looked at sooner rather than later. The body rarely registers pain without a reason and this could be a wake-up call to warn you that physically you are not doing something right.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Pentacles

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fashion & Footwear

Fraser Suites (Diplomatic Area) . . . . 19 Juffair Gate Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Mercure Grand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . . 1 AMA University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Bahrain Cinema Company . . . . . . . . . 52 Behzad Group (Elames) . . . . . . . . . 91,97 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Kumar’s Group (K Home & Kitchen) . 15

The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Life Insurance Corp. (International) . 46

Jewellery & Watches Sharif Group (Roberto Cavalli) . . . . . . 13

Medical & Dental Services American Mission Hospital . . . . . . . . 29 Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 21 University Medial Center King Abdullah Medical City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Novo Cinemas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 PGS Property Management Co. (Al Tawfeek Maintenance Services) . . . 37 Rishi Kapoor Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Restaurants & Cafés Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Kazbah Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Motoring

McDonalds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . 67

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . 45

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets

All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from Red House Marketing, 17 813-777 or email: bystander@redhousemarketing.com.

August 2017 111

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 98 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

What is the name of Rishi Kapoor’s autobiography and when is his live show in Bahrain? ______________________________________________

Winner : Rhea Biadnes Second Place : Carmen Maunahan Third Place : Priya Kumar

Which mall is offering a bedroom makeover? ______________________________________________ Which Scottish artist will perform in aid of Tony the Dogfather? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

1. Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre 2. July 14 3. Mercedes AMG C63 S cabriolet 4. A 2.8-litre 5. The BMW M240i M Performance Edition 6. 1889 7. Lanterns 8. DJ Paul Darey 9. Tomorrowland 10. His Excellency Agus Salim Haji Yusof

What milestone anniversary does India celebrate in August? ______________________________________________ Which hotel will have its island debut under the management of VKL Group? ______________________________________________ Which three Ferraris did Dick Potter test drive? ______________________________________________ What car did Charlie Holding test drive? ______________________________________________

Name:

2. Intercol/Nokia

3. The Butcher Shop & Grill 4. House of Travel

Email: CPR:

Name any two food and beverage outlets in Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa?

7/25/17

Bahrain

Telephone:

Which restaurant is hosting the Kinoko Matsuri festival? ______________________________________________

1

1. InterContinental Regency

Address:

Which restaurant did Behnaz Sanjana review this month and where? ______________________________________________

Dragoner Magazine-278X216.pdf

Ad Seek:

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

12:08 PM

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!

Lighting Advert - Arabian Homes (half page).indd 1

1.

112 August 2017

2.

7/23/2017 3:32:17 PM

A GREAT TIME OUT Seef Mall, Muharraq, Bahrain

3.

4. www.bahrainthismonth.com