Bahrain This Month - February 2014

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

February 2014 ~ Vol. 18 ~ Issue 2 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Citibank is celebrating!

Get Blipping!

See Page 54

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Featured This Month:

Garden Show | Fine Arts Exhibition | Gulf Industry fair

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

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Issue 198

Contents February 2014 Cover Story:

68 Celebrating Commitment

68

23

64

Citibank celebrates 25 years of consumer banking in the Kingdom and the launch of more products and services during the course of the year.

Happenings: Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of February 2014:

23 Boosting Business: The Bahrain International Garden Show returns 26 A Decade of F1: The Kingdom gears up for a night race 30 When Foul is Fair: Shakespeare4Kids presents its version of Macbeth 38 Artistic Finesse: The Fine Arts Exhibition celebrates its 40th edition 42 Dance from the Heart: An AWA fund-raiser for treating heart disease 44 Enter the Battleground: Gaming breaks out at the BIC 46 Junior Grand Slam: An opportunity for budding talent to shine 23-46 Calendars: Events during February

Spotlight:

56 Building on Dreams

30

66

The Supreme Council for Women sets up an incubation centre exclusively for female entrepreneurs, in conjunction with Bahrain Development Bank.

58 JLR Back Seat Chat Dr Osama Al Baharna and George Middleton take a drive in the Jaguar XF while they chat about the BCCI elections and Dr Osama’s life as an academic and businessman.

Business:

56

www.bahrainthismonth.com

141

61 Where Business Speaks The appeal of the Gulf Industry Fair attracts a raft of new exhibitors from around the region and Europe, as the event cements its importance to the market.

Bystander

64 Giving from the Heart

We celebrated the National Day of Qatar and spent time down at the Bahrain International Airshow. Our photographers buzzed all over the island to take in the copious number of events supporting Great British Week. We drew the crowds at the Al Aali Arts Fest and the Little Picassos competition. There were also a host of venues to visit as the new year dawned.

66 Striving for Excellence

A ‘social enterprise’ proves to be more than words as Bahrain This Month talks to the people behind Charitime, a venture that allows you to donate your time.

Food safety and security might not be the most appetising subject, but this hypermarket goes the extra mile to ensure what we consume is of the highest standard.

February 2014 5

Convenient services for citizens & businesses are just an app away

Scan to download

To download our innovative apps, visit bahrain.bh/apps eGovernment of Bahrain is committed to creating apps and eServices that make your life easier. These apps allow every citizen, resident and business owner to access services online, at their convenience.

Visit bahrain.bh/apps to discover our range of innovative apps aimed at leading you towards a better life.

For more information, you can call the National Contact Centre at 80008001.

bahrain.bh/apps

Issue 198

Contents February 2014 Blipp This Month:

54 Get Blipping!

This month we introduce a new print-to-digital technology to

55

the Kingdom — Blippar. Read this article to find out what it’s all about!

55 Social Media Insights: Learn to enhance your digital marketing 58 Back Street Chat: The Jaguar XF is the centre of attention this month 87 VIVA 4G: Watch video launching 4G and listen to an exclusive interview 120 Blipp & Win: Simply download the app to win a Valentine’s Day prize

Downtime:

97

117

73 Virtually a Reality: Virtual headphones are set to make an impact 74 Gadgets: Show off your tech-savvy romantic assets 76 Showcase: Lulu Hypermarket gadgets 78 Music: Mixing up all your tapes sounds good 80 Computer Games: A thief in the basement 81 Websites: Make it a subtle connection 82 Apps: Seeking out the best deals 83 Movies: Walking along the railway line 84 Valentine’s Tarotscope: What the stars have to say about romance

Motoring: 97 Black Night Editions: MINIs in black!

98 Test Drive: Nissan Patrol 100 Showcase: Toyota SUVs @ Ebrahim K. Kanoo

135

147

Dining: 117 Reasons to Rejoice: New dishes at Nuasia 120 Feature: Valentine’s Day 130 Showcase: Atayeb Restaurant

After Dark: 135 Ibrida: Get set for an action-packed month 136 Feature: Valentine’s Day 138 Showcase: Ramee Group of Hotels 38

42

44

157 158 159 160

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Showcase: WIN WIN Tarotscope AD Index Last word

106 Telecom Features: When 4G is what it takes 141 What’s New: Valentine’s Day gifts 143 Marketplace: Latest products and services

February 2014 7

The team

Bahrain This Month February 2014

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

Dear Readers,

Events Editor Maryam Toorani

I am very excited this month to announce a further development in our digital strategy — the introduction of a print-to-digital technology from Blippar. This application enables us to deliver a platform that creates a richer experience for our readers and an opportunity for our clients to engage with existing and prospective customers.

Further details can be found on page 54. There’s an offer of a Valentine’s gift from a couple of the Kingdom’s five-star hotels; simply download the app and take an image of page 120 to enter your name into the prize draw.

The elections for board membership of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in the middle of the month, are as hotly contested as always. We talk with Dr Osama Al Baharna, in our Backseat Chat series, about what he hopes to achieve if elected, and how he has managed being both an academic and a businessman.

In the month of love, when Valentine’s Day is celebrated, we have an article to warm the heart. The founders of Charitime tell us about their online service that allows people to volunteer their time, rather than money, for a worthy cause. There is a round-up of how to spend the evening of February 14 in our Dining and After Dark pages.

The Bahrain International Garden Show returns with a focus on local agricultural production as well as more traditional gardening endeavours. We also take a look at the new incubator facility for budding female entrepreneurs set up by the Supreme Council for Women in conjunction with Bahrain Development Bank.

Patrick Schwerdtfeger, who recently spoke at the Social Media Masters Forum in the Kingdom, provides an insight into the world of social media. The full interview, on page 55, can be ‘blipped’ to watch our exclusive chat with him. The VIVA 4G bystander, on page 87, is another opportunity to embrace a digital experience.

Our cover story celebrates 25 years of consumer banking from Citibank in Bahrain. Navneet Kampani talks about the commitment required to be successful over a sustained period of time. We also hear from Juzer Rupawala, regional director for Lulu Hypermarket, about the steps taken by the retailer to deliver value for customers.

Whatever you do this month, take the opportunity to spend some quality time with your partner and enjoy the great way of life that the Kingdom has to offer.

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

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

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Cover

Cover Picture: Citibank: 25 years of consumer banking in the Kingdom.

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

February 2014 ~ Vol. 18 ~ Issue 2

Only 2 issues to go.

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

April 2014

Contributors James Claire (dining), Simi Kamboj, Tony Sidgwick (motoring)

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

Citibank is celebrating!

Get Blipping!

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Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/bahrainthismonth

Featured This Month:

Garden Show | Fine Arts Exhibition | Gulf Industry fair

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2014 9

bystanderthismonth

Bahrain Air Show 2014 His Majesty King Hamad deputised His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier to open the 3rd Bahrain International Airshow which was held at the Sakhir Airbase over three days. During his attendance of the first day of the Airshow, His Royal Highness also launched Great British Week, a series of events over the course of week celebrating 200 years of longstanding ties between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Kingdom. The launch was attended by Prince Andrew, the Duke of York

His Majesty King Hamad & HH Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s Personal Representative

HE Kamal Ahmed, Transportation Minister, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa & Prince Andrew tour the show

HE Anura Rajakaruna, Sri Lankan Ambassador, HE Chilman Arisman, Indonesian Ambassador & HE Vichai Virasirikul, Thai Ambassador

Salah, Mazen, Yousif, HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Capital Governor & Martin

Adel Daylami, Rashid Abdulla & Faisal

Salman & Rohit

Faisal, Shaikh Rashis, Sowqi, Shaikh Ahmed & Shaikh Khalifa

Mubarak, Hesterman & Mansour

10 February 2014

HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa at the official opening of the Bahrain International Airshow 2014

Dr Zayani & Mazen Al Umran

HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador

Pat, Brett, Steve & Kris

HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador

Timothy Pounds

Markus, Abdulla & Nasser

Paul

Bayan, Haneen & Ghada

Noora

Barry & Major Deanna

Rafeeq

Noor

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain Air Show 2014

bystanderthismonth

Manish, Heinz & Ali

Dr Mustafa Al Sayeed & Salman Al Dosari

Mohammed Dadabhai, Rania Al Shirawi, Shaikh Hamed & Aziz Gilitwala

Irina, Iurii & Anastasia

Ayman, Noor, Ahmed & Atifa

Scott, Alan, Bill & Michael

Dr Mohammed, Shaikh Hamed, Tony & Jaber

12 February 2014

George & Rashid

Ghada, Sanya & Beth

Mark & Guy

Yara & Jood

Rhonda, Caroline & Louise

Farrah, Joe & Emily

Lt. Khawla & Lt. Sara

Ahmed, Zahwa & Fatima

Agnieszka & Maryam

George & Anne

Noor & Munira

Dana & Sara

Laura & Salman

Sherin

Catherine & Graeme

Dhaif & Ebrahim

Karthik

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Cupid doesn't always strike with an arrow

This year, celebrate your love at Kempinski. All ladies will have a chance to win a white gold, diamonds and ruby Valentine pendant from Al Zain Jewellery at Saveur and Baharat.

Valentine’s Dinner - SAVEUR Enjoy a tantalising 4-course menu at Saveur - winner of the Most Romantic Restaurant Award, set amidst rose petals and candles.

February 14, 19:30 – 22:30, BD 28++ per person

Private Dining Pods - MEZZANINE

Reserve your ultimate romantic dinner in a dreamy setting of your private pod.

February 14, 19:00 – 23:00, BD 120++ per couple

Valentine’s Brunch - BAHARAT

Join our Special Valentine's Friday Brunch.

February 14, 12:30 – 16:00, BD 19++ per person

For reservations and information call +973 1717 1000 | restaurants.bahrain@kempinski.com kempinski.com/bahrain kempinskihotelbahrain

Kempinskibahrain

KGIHBCC

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre

bystanderthismonth

Landmark 40th Anniversary Celebrations His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier attended the celebration marking the 40th anniversary of the Al Rashid Group and Landmark Group at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel and Spa last month.

Also present were HE Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, HE Ali Saleh Al Saleh, Shura Council chairman, Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa, Al Rashid Group chief executive, Shaikh Hassan bin Rashid Al Khalifa, group director general, Micky Jagtiani, guest of honour & Landmark Group chairman and other senior officials and guests

Micky Jagtiani & HRH Prince Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa

HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho'ala & Vipen Sethi

HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa & Shaikha Hind

Hassan Ibrahim Kamal & Shaikh Salman bin Rashid Al Khalifa

Shaikh Salman, Shaikha Hind, Shaikh Hassan, Vipen Sethi & Renuka Jagtiani

Shaikha Marwa bint Rashid Al Khalifa, Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Shaikh Hassan & Shaikha Joanne

Abdul Rehaman Al Dossary, Neelesh Bhatnagar & Jayant Khosla

14 February 2014

HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa

HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Shaikh Hassan bin Rashid Al Khalifa & Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa

HE Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa welcomed by Shaikha Hind

Shaikh Abdulaziz bin Mubarak Al Khalifa & HE Ali Salah Al Salah

Rena Sethi & Shaikha Hind

Shaikha Joanne Al Hashimi, Shaikh Hassan, Shaikh Salman & Shaikha Shaima Al Monsoori

Amal Almoayyed, Micky Jagtiani & Mazen Al Umran

HE Jauhar Saleem, Pakistani Ambassador & Mrs Saleem

Nader Shaheen

Vikas Attri, Lakshman, Sonali & Preeti

Nor Hayati & HE Ahmed Shahizan, Malaysian Ambassador

George Middleton with Raza Beig

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Landmark 40th Anniversary Celebrations

bystanderthismonth

Tony Jashanmal, Vipen Sethi, Renuka Jagtiani & Eveline Jashanmal

Irfan Othman, Abdul Latif & Mario D'Cruz

Inna, Anil, Johan & Nishehal

Kunal Kapoor, Zafar Ali, Shaikh Hassan & Jayaram Nambiar

Amy, George & Benny

16 February 2014

Amal & Nadia

Shaikh Rashid bin Salman Al Khalifa & Shaikha Hind

Vinod & Hina Talreja

Geg, Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa & Quraish

Liliane, Suheil & Reem

Piety Reveredo, Masuma, Hina Talreja, Vinod Talreja & Manu Jeswani

George & Micky

Ashok, Renuka, Micky, Anne & George

Raj & Shubha

Raj, Ramy & Syed

Mathew, Nasser & Radha

Ameena & Najah

Neelesh Bhatnagar & Benny Ratnani

Lalit, Sunehri & Sanjay

Anil & Sunehri

Nahla & Khareya

Rahul

Chandrakant

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Stay connected when you are on the move with MiFi Taxi Keep your eyes open for Bahrain's first Smart Taxi with the amazing 4G LTE WiFi connection, helping you stay connected to your world while on the move. Brought to you by Batelco and Arabian Taxi.

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bystanderthismonth

Qatar National Day Celebrations HE Shaikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani, Qatari Ambassador hosted a reception to mark the National Day of Qatar. The reception attended by HE Ghanim bin Fadel Al Buainain, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, diplomats & VIPs was held at the Gulf Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel

HE Shaikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & HE Jauhar Saleem, Pakistani Ambassador

Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Shaikh Issa bin Ali Al Khalifa & Nabeel Ajoor

HE Shaikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani & HE Ghanim bin Fadel Al Buainain with diplomats & VIPs at the cake cutting ceremony

Fawaz Al Mannai, HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa & Ahmed Bin Hindi

Mohammed Kooheji, HE Hatun Demirer, Turkish Ambassador & Bader Kooheji

Waleed Sharif, Masood Bastaki, Nabeel Ajoor & Ashia Yaqoobi

Mazen Al Umran, Jassim Al Zayani, Othman Rayes & Ebrahim Zainal

Rahim Abu Omar, Jalil Al Ansari, Mohammed Salahuddin, Ebrahim Kooheji & Fawzia

18 February 2014

Sadiq Dawani, Abdul Razzaq Lari & HE Shaikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani

Ahlam Janahi & Khalid Al Shaear

Zuhair & Shaikh Issa bin Ali Al Khalifa

Lilian & Kostantinos Pallikaropoulos

Manaf

Jassim Al Zayani & Abdulla Juma

Khalid Al Zayani, Jassim Al Zayani & Nasser Alarayedh

Dr Mona Al Zayani

Stephen

Dr Abdulla Al Zahrani

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

GREAT British Week Editor's Media Conference Under the patronage of HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of the Capital Governorate, HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador & Khalid Al Zayani, chairman of the BBBF held a press conference for editors ahead of the formal launch of the GREAT British Week last month. The press conference held at the at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa took place in front of the new London Red Bus, shipped into Bahrain specifically for the GREAT British Week

Mazen Al Umran, Khalid Al Zayani, HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa & HE Iain Lindsay

Riz, Ali, Khalid Al Zayani, HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, HE Iain Lindsay & Mazen Al Umran in front of the London Red Bus

Ali, Khalid Al Zayani, HE Shaikh Hisham, HE Iain Lindsay & Mazen Al Umran

Mark, HE Iain Lindsay & HE Shaikh Hisham

Riz, Debbie & Ali

Sally, Frances, Salma & Taher

20 February 2014

Liam, Murtadha & Khalid

Debbie, Mazen & Esther

David & Rodney

Yousif & Yousif

Fatin

Khalid & Liam

Rekha Mehr

Yasser

Martin Whitaker

Mohammed & Khalil

Sue

Svetlana

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bystanderthismonth

Advanced Engineering & Innovation Conference Under the patronage of HH Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s Personal Representative, an ‘Advanced Engineering and Innovation’ event was held during the Great British Week at the Bahrain International Circuit. Over 200 delegates & exhibitors participated along with leading British companies such as Rolls Royce (Aero), BAE Systems and McLaren Automotive. The event was also attended by Prince Andrew, Duke of York & HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador

HE Abdulla Juma & George Middleton

Martin Whitaker

Prince Andrew, HE Iain Lindsay & HH Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa

Mazen Al Umran, Tomoko & HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, HH Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa & HE Abdulla Juma

Fahad Al Shirawi & Khalid Al Zayani

Bridget & HE Iain Lindsay

Abdulrahman, Mohammed, Rashid, John, Naji, Vanessa, Noora, Carsten & Abdulla

Mandy, Stuart & Rodney

Saurabh, Bassim & Rajbir

Rick gets ready to drive the McLaren around the BIC track

Ed, Andrew & Russ

22 February 2014

Panos & Michael

Shahira & Peter

The McLaren on show at the event

Daniel, Shane & Lee

Jina Mohammed

Yara, Sue & Laura

Shaikh Ebrahim Al Khalifa & Jason

Ian & Craig

Hamza & Akbar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? February 26-March 1 | Event? Bahrain International Garden Show | Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

Boosting Local Business From exotic flora to Bahrain’s own botanical bounty, its time once again to head to this expansive exhibit, so you can hand-pick the inhabitants of your garden.

The Kingdom’s biggest flower, lifestyle and garden show returns with a multitude of green attractions this month.

Organised by the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD), the 10th Bahrain International Garden Show (BIGS) takes place from February 26 to March 01 at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

This eagerly awaited event is expected to bring the best names in the agriculture and horticulture industry along with many new innovative green ideas.

Over the past decade, the show has undergone a shift in focus from having a more aesthetic approach to exploring the agricultural development of the country. Visitors this year get to see the high-tech advancements in the field and get a glimpse into the future of the agriculture industry. Being held under the theme ‘Agricultural Technology’, it showcases the best the sector has to offer in terms of new machinery and tools that can help improve productivity, lower costs and enhance environmental sustainability. It’s a great platform for non-traditional farmers who are constantly looking to employ newer techniques in their work.

“This year we are focusing on new technologies that are available now or are just around the corner. Agriculture is a dynamic and growing field that has seen many technological developments in recent years, and to highlight this to the Also this month

public, we’re showcasing the latest garden, landscaping and agricultural technologies that are literally transforming the industry,” says Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, general coordinator, BIGS. The island today is home to many who have invested in modern greenhouses and contributed a variety of produce, making up a sizable portion of the local market.

The exhibition continues to provide a platform for companies to expand their client base in a region that is currently directing large investment into the agricultural sector in order to address the challenges of the future. This year, particularly, it focuses on the latest trends in using technology in agriculture to increase productivity in an environmentally friendly and cost-efficient manner.

BIGS has firmly established itself as a leading gardening show in the Gulf region.

Trip to the garden Those who are not farmers or agricultural suppliers have many attractions to look forward to as well. From experts to hobbyists, there’s something new for everybody. The show attracts exhibitors from all corners of the world and over 20,000 visitors every year. It is attended by VIPS, architects, consultants, developers, and other industry professionals and is a great place to see new garden and landscaping technology, trends and equipment. The show starts officially on February 26 and is open to the public from the next day.

E Call 17 417-008 or visit www.bigs.com.bh.

GET A GOOD PAIR OF SNEAKERS Is your energy lagging? Though it may be the last thing you feel like doing when you're tired, exercise, even a brisk walk can be more effective than a nap or cup of coffee at fighting fatigue.

Exercise enhances the blood flow carrying oxygen and nutrients to muscle tissue improving their ability to produce energy.

38 x Arts & Culture - 42 x Clubs & Societies - 44 x Teens & Kids - 46 x Sports & Recreation

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2014 23

happeningsthismonth When? February 1-28 Event? Promotional campaign Venue? Seef Mall Start shopping to win an amazing weekend trip or shopping spree for two.

E Call 17 581-111 or visit www. seef.net.

When? February 4 Event? Entrepreneurship programme Venue? Ramee Grand Hotel If you are hoping to start your own business, this workshop is what you need.

E Call 17 536-881.

Promoting Growth

When? February 8 Event? Boutique sale Venue? Dilmun Club Join Tony the Dogfather’s bid to raise funds for a worthy cause.

E Email tony.dogfather@gmail.com.

When? February 9 Event? Sailing tour Venue? Amwaj Marina The fourth edition of the EFG Sailing Arabia Tour is back with a bang.

E Visit www.sailingarabiatour.com.

When? February 12 and 13 Event? Macbeth by Shakespeare4Kidz Venue? Cultural Hall Kids will enjoy the literary works of Shakespeare after this Macbeth musical.

E Call 39 616-858 or 39 607-489.

When? February 26 Event? Summit Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain The Success Summit will inspire you to reaching your goals.

E Call 36 048-699.

In the hope of developing the SME and entrepreneurship culture in the Kingdom, Tamkeen and UNIDO through the Arab International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Investment holds a workshop this month. The specialised joint workshop is titled ‘Developing a Strong Brand Identity’ and will be held on February 4 from 9am to 3pm at the Ramee Grand Hotel.

The workshop will be conducted by Liban Pack managing director Suha Atalla, who is an international expert specialising in building and developing new brand identity. She will also highlight the importance of packaging as a marketing tool and the components of a successful brand.

It is the first in a series which aims at encouraging entrepreneurship among Bahrainis. E Call 17 536-881.

The seminar features two of the world’s greatest leadership and entrepreneurship experts — Robin Sharma and Verne Harnish. Sharma is the globally celebrated author of 10 bestselling books on leadership and personal development. His work has been published in over 50 countries and nearly 70 languages. He shot to fame with The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, which has topped international bestseller lists and sold millions of copies.

Harnish is the founder of two renowned entrepreneurship organisations and is the author of Mastering the Rockefeller Habits. E Call 36 048-699 or 80 001-077.

Key to Success The path to success is never easy. This month, two global experts can teach you how to reach your goals. The Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail in association with Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance holds a Success Summit on February 26 at Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

When? February 26-March 1 Event? Bahrain International Garden Show Venue? BIECC Check out this year’s edition of the Kingdom’s biggest garden show.

E Call 17 417-008 or visit www. bigs.com.bh.

When? March 1 Event? Amwaj Marina Market Venue? Amwaj Islands The island’s favourite outdoor market adds new vendors to its exciting line-up.

E Email events@amwaj.bh.

24 February 2014

All Aboard The region’s leading offshore sailing event is back bigger than ever. After a very successful tour in 2013, the Kingdom will once again play host to the start of the prestigious EFG Sailing Arabia Tour. The fourth edition will start from Bahraini waters on February 9 and will go on for 15 days.

The tour will again be contested in identical Farr 30 keelboats, calling in at eight stopover world-class marinas in four nations — Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Oman — where the tour will end.

E Visit www.sailingarabiathetour.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Benvenuti a casa.

Find out about the new Forma collection at www.natuzzi.com

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

happeningsthismonth

A Decade of Formula One! It’s a special race for Bahrain in 2014, as the BIC celebrates ten years of hosting the Bahrain F1 Grand Prix, with a night race!

Wow, ten years! Has it really been that long? It doesn’t seem that long ago when Bahrain was the ‘new kid on the block’, impressing the world with spectacularly successful events right from the very first GP in 2004. And now, with eight races already firmly under their belt (yes, although this is the tenth year, it’s the ninth race, as 2011’s race was called off), they’re going from strength to strength, improving and adding to the weekend year after year And the big news this year? For the first time, the Bahrain F1 Grand Prix will be a night race, with all the excitement, drama and atmosphere that comes with it! It’s only the second night race to be held in the season, after the Singapore Grand Prix, and promises to be a truly memorable occasion.

And the good news is that there is still a very small window of opportunity to catch yourself an ‘Early Bird Discount’ ticket, as they’re on sale until February 5. These special offer tickets get you up to 20 per cent discount on the price of a ticket; a fantastic offer for an entire weekend of world-class activities.

In order to make ticket purchasing as easy as possible and to bring the excitement closer to fans, BIC recently announced the opening of its new stand at Bahrain City Centre (BCC).The outlet is located on the ground floor near Gate Three, within the shopping complex’s West Court.

It is open throughout mall hours and a friendly team of BIC staff is on hand throughout the day to assist all customers with their needs. Tickets to this year’s Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix are among the many things that can be purchased at the BCC stand.

The BIC has formulated a new ticket pricing structure for this year in order to give Formula One fans the best chance of attending the region’s biggest sporting, social and business networking event.

For example, under the ‘Early Bird’ offer, Main Grandstand tickets cost just BD120 instead of the regular price of BD150.

All Main Grandstand tickets have been reduced by 20 per cent during the ‘Early Bird’ discount period, while other tickets are 15 per cent off. Oasis Grandstand tickets normally cost BD120 apiece. Under the ‘Early Bird’ offer, they are BD102 each.

All tickets are for all three days of the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend. Aside from the ‘Early Bird’, other attractive offers are available until race day. Under these deals, only one ticket can be purchased per person.

Children aged three to 12 years old can get tickets at 50 per cent off while school students aged 13 to 17 can get a 25 per cent reduction. Those with special needs as well as senior citizens aged 65 and above can both purchase a ticket with a 25 per cent discount.

E Call 17 450-000 or visit www.bahraingp.com.

When? April 4-6 | Event? Bahrain F1 Grand Prix | Venue? Bahrain International Circuit

26 February 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happeningsthismonth When? February 1-28 | Event? Promotional campaign | Venue? Seef Mall

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Start shopping now and you could be the lucky winner of a fabulous winter getaway.

28 February 2014

Are you wishing for a wardrobe makeover and can’t afford the shopping spree? Are you looking to leave your worries behind and go on a family vacation? This month, Seef Mall rewards its loyal customers with a fantastic opportunity that could win them the prizes of a lifetime.

The family-oriented mall has launched its hugely popular ‘Shop & Win’ promotion for another edition, offering you the perfect excuse to go shopping. The top reward is a week-long ski trip to the German Alps. That’s right. A lucky family of four can enjoy an exciting travel package that includes hotel accommodation, airplane tickets, transportation, ski passes and a variety of off-site activities.

Other prizes include a couple’s winter wardrobe worth up to BD1,000 and winter-themed Seef Mall gift cards worth BD500, BD300 and BD200. All you need to do for a chance to win these amazing prizes is spend BD20 in any of Seef Mall’s outlets.

“This winter, we are really excited to bring back our popular ‘Shop & Win’ campaign with a revamped prize pool. Through this, we aim to engage with a wider customer base and offer them one-of-a-kind experiences,” says Robert Addison, general manager of Seef Properties.

Aside from the incredible rewards on offer, Seef Mall lets the entire family enjoy a number of exciting activities and live entertainment held in the shopping complex throughout the month.

E Call 17 581-111 or visit www.seef.net.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? February 12 and 13 | Event? Macbeth by Shakespeare4Kidz | Venue? Cultural Hall

When Foul is Fair This internationally acclaimed theatre company brings to the Kingdom a stellar production of this literary masterpiece, full of intrigue and conspiracy theories.

30 February 2014

On a mission to introduce younger audiences around the world to the works of literary genius Shakespeare, theatre company Shakespeare4Kidz in association with Entertainment+ presents its musical production of Macbeth. The Bahrain edition of their GCC tour is scheduled for February 12 and 13 with shows at 8.45am and 11.30am at the Cultural Hall, adjacent to Bahrain National Museum.

The adaptation by director Julian Chenery and Matt Gimblett tells the grim story of lethal ambition and conspiring manoeuvres, by weaving Shakespeare’s original words into easy-to-understand modern language.

This timeless classic tells the tale of a Scottish general Macbeth who meets three witches who tell him of his destiny to become King of Scotland. With his wife on his side, who urges him on his ambitious and murderous quest, audiences find the general ruthlessly slaying anyone who stands in his way.

Look forward to stunning sword fights, songs and dances presented by a 14-member cast of world-class performers and musicians. In store are weird witches, gory ghosts, bloody battles and even a forest which moves. A musical thriller, it is guaranteed to keep kids of all ages on the very edge of their seats.

The production is designed by Kate Unwin, with choreography and musical staging by Helen Jeckells and Michael Webborn on board as musical director. The main cast includes Noel Andrew Harron in the title role, Michelle Cornelius as Lady Macbeth and Isaac Stanmore as Macduff.

The play has received rave reviews in the UK with one newspaper describing it as “eerily atmospheric, genuinely original, truly entertaining and stealthily educational”.

In addition to being a unique family show, the show is also ideal preparation for students studying Shakespeare at any level and ensures that everyone in the audience gets a complete grasp on the plot, themes, characters and relationships within the play, allowing further study from a solid knowledge base.

Shakespeare4Kidz delivers exactly what is promised; the works of William Shakespeare are made available to the young people around the world. Their unique easy-to-understand musical adaptations of these plays form the base of teaching the playwright’s body of his work for many students. The performances are scheduled in daytime to ensure that school parties can attend during school hours and evening shows invite family audiences.

E Call 39 616-858 or 39 607-489.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? February 19-21 | Event? Comedy shows | Venue? Various PUNCHLINE MEDIA

Laughter: The Best Medicine!

The Kingdom’s stand up comedy scene receives three fresh faces this month, promising a rollicking time with some world-class gags.

We hope you’re ready to have your funny bone tickled as The Chuckle Club presents three renowned international names in stand up comedy this month. Catch them live at Bahrain Rugby Club on February 19, The British Club on the 20th and the InterContinental Regency Hotel on the 21st.

combination of charm and some surreal and silly material, coupled with his brilliant comedy songs, have made Steve Shanyaski an act not to be missed. His style is inherently cheeky and a roguish twinkle shines through his work, elevating him to quite another level as a performer. Within the first six months of his comedy career he made it through to the semifinals of the BBC New Comedian of the Year, the North West Comedian of the Year final, and later that year, booked to appear on the BBC7 radio show ‘Spanking New’.

He has won a number of awards, most notable of which are Holsten Pils Comedian of the Year and the Birmingham Comedy Festival Breakthrough Act, along with being the finalist at the City Life Comedian of the Year competition.

Christian Reilly Starting off as the guitar-wielding sidekick in the Perrier awardwinning ‘Rich Hall is Otis Lee Crenshaw’, Christian soon catapulted to success owing to his impeccable comic timing and natural wit. He employs his musical talent and vocal range in his acts and has established himself as a global comedy headliner. The artist garnered a strong fan base and critical acclaim through his appearances at international festivals, BBC radio and TV and on the Chortle’s award-winning show ‘Richard Herring: As It Occurs to Me’. He recently returned from a successful sell-out run at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe.

Steve Shanyaski Bored of his day job, this talented performer had an epiphany and walked straight onto the comedy stage. A unique John Moloney A seasoned name on the comedy circuit, John Moloney has made his audiences dizzy with laughter for over two decades. A headline act at all the major comedy clubs around the world, including the prestigious London Comedy Store, he has twice won ‘Best Live Performer’ at The London Comedy Festival and was nominated as ‘Best Live Stand-Up’ at The British Comedy Awards.

He is on the list of Channel 4’s World Top 100 Stand-Up acts.

Critics have regarded his acts as“classy, loaded with droll oneliners, coruscating bits of political satire, absurdist observations, gleeful schoolboy puns and observant reinterpretations of everyday phenomena.”

E Call 36 663-509.

32 February 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? May 11-12 | Event? Special Needs Support Exhibition | Venue? Gulf Hotel

Overcoming Challenges The Kingdom joins hands with a global organisation in an effort to enhance the lives of many children who suffer from physical and mental disability in the region.

34 February 2014

This year the country hosts the 2nd Special Needs Support Exhibition 2014 (SNSE) on May 11 to 12. Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, first deputy chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, the event aims to draw attention to the challenges faced by children with special needs and how can professionals and society together help them cope up with these difficulties.

Organised by ProVision in association with the Ministry of Education (MoE), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and National Institute for Disabled, the event returns in its second edition after a successful run in 2011.

The region has seen a rise in the number of children with mental, physical, visual, or hearing disability and this year’s exhibition highlights the means for boosting a child’s selfesteem and confidence, encouraging them to accomplish tasks on their own.

This is a special opportunity for parents and family members of such children to learn more about the latest developments and techniques that can be adopted to help the kids.

The exhibition brings in focus the latest support and learning tools for the specially abled, especially children. People can

take part in conferences that give out information on how to overcome obstacles and tackle situations faced by children, along with a line-up of interactive and fun activities. SNSE 2011 saw the presence of over 50 exhibitors and 2,000 visitors from across the world.

As part of the exhibition, the Gulf Disabilities Society will be seen celebrating their 30th anniversary. The society that started in1984 has played a pivotal role in addressing issues pertaining to disability, including preventive measures and rehabilitation programmes.

Enabling lives The SNSE successfully illustrates the efforts being made by the Ministry of Education (MOE) towards an education system that pays close attention to students with special needs, stressing on the principle of the constant and rapid support and therapeutic education. MOE programmes, including this event, ensure that all children, including those with special needs, have an equal opportunity to reach their full potential and enjoy a quality life.

E Call 17 369-595 or visit www.snse-expo.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happeningsthismonth When? February 1 | Event? Amwaj Marina Market | Venue? Amwaj Islands AMWAJ MARINA MARKET

Saturday Fun The island’s favourite outdoor market is back, bringing shoppers great bargains and amazing family-friendly entertainment.

This year, the Amwaj Marina Market is bigger and better as proven by the season opening last month. Families, kids and youngsters enjoyed brand-new additions to the line-up of stalls.

The products on offer included rosewood and outdoor furniture, traditional apparel and accessories. Little ones enjoyed the day with free cotton candy and popcorn, and had fun jumping around on a bouncy castle.

This month’s edition is sure to be a family affair for all to enjoy as the event focuses on children’s entertainment.

Activities include appearances by cartoon characters, face painting, henna designs, and more free popcorn and cotton candy for all visitors.

If you’re looking to shop until you drop, then you should visit this month’s stalls which feature accessories, home furnishings and carpets. The retail segment also boasts exclusive pieces by Bahraini designers, who have been creating a buzz on Instagram with their locally made products.

Food lovers need not fret as they can enjoy an assortment of baked goods from Lulu Hypermarket. In addition to cupcake stalls, the market offers delicious meals from Tabakh Restaurant.

Al Ghalia Farms will once again offer their fresh and organic produce for health fanatics and cooking enthusiasts.

Open from 10am until 5pm, the market is scheduled to be held throughout winter on the first Saturday of every month. Stalls are open for registration at a competitive price.

E Email events@amwaj.bh.

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A view of the stand at the event

Asmaa, Fallon, Charmaine, Hussain, Amit, Sayed, Mohammed, Dilip & Badr

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36 February 2014

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happeningsartsculture When? Throughout February | Event? Fine Art Exhibition | Venue? Bahrain National Museum

Artistic Finesse A celebration of the Kingdom’s artistic pulse, this exhibition presents a vivid canvas, showcasing the works of some of the best artists in the country.

The Kingdom is perhaps one of the few countries in the GCC region where artistic expression has always been encouraged and has now grown into a strong discourse in its own right.

Thanks to the unwavering support of HRH Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the country has a strong fine arts society which has been organising the Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition for the past four decades. Celebrating this milestone this year, the annual event is taking on a much grander scale.

Organised by the Ministry of Culture, the exhibition is a gala which reflects Bahrain’s rich cultural and social heritage and its evolution over the years.

The exhibition is a special platform that showcases the works of both established and rising talents in the field, each with its own unique artistic style and flair, adding to the overall experience and theme. Together, the exhibited works illustrate cultural trends and changes within the local artistic scene.

This year there’s also an attempt to demonstrate the tremendous strides made by the fine arts movement in the country. Catch acclaimed and budding local artists, exhibiting their finest works in what is expected to be a memorable festival of creative diversity and limitless imagination.

One can visit the exhibition throughout February, to March 15, at the National Museum. The entrance is free.

Individual expression Led by a group of creative pioneers, the small achievements of the movement forged a microcosm where the local art scene

38 February 2014

When? Throughout February Event? Art exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum Join the Kingdom as it celebrates its longstanding fine arts heritage.

E Call 17 298-718.

When? February 1-15 Event? Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery Mohammed Omar Khalil showcases a retrospective of his printmaking work.

E Call 17 717-707.

flourished. The fine arts scene in Bahrain is constantly evolving with artistic endeavours playing a leading role in the development of modern Bahraini culture.

This work often encapsulates the deep relationship Bahrainis have with their environment and how they choose to express this connection.

Even a quick glance through this, reveals a wealth of crosscultural influences, and a plethora of contemporary techniques expressed through a wide range of media as rich and nuanced as any arts movement elsewhere in the world.

The artistic faction was strengthened further by the numerous societies leading the way on the grassroots level, and creating a solid foundation for fine arts to move forward.

Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition has grown from strength to strength and is pivotal in setting new artistic standards in the country.

When? February 1-20 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bin Mattar House Four Bahrain-based photographers showcase their shots from India.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? February 1-26 Event? Workshop Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre Saad Busaad holds a calligraphy workshop for aspiring artists.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? February 6 Event? Concert Venue? Baan Saeng Thai, Adliya A group of local musicians pay tribute to Salil Chowdhury.

E Call 33 227-100.

E Call 17 298-718.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsartsculture

Celebrating Print Held under the patronage of HE Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Fifty Years of Printmaking is an exhibition by the prominent Sudanese painter Mohammed Omar Khalil. The artist showcases, for the first time, a retrospective of his printmaking work in etching between the mid 1960s and the late 2000s.

Albareh Art Gallery will also launch a book on the painter, showcasing his artistic productions in printmaking, featuring introductory essays by a number of scholars.

Khalil’s work comprises paintings, prints and artistic books.

His work has been included in numerous exhibitions worldwide, including the Institut du Monde Arabe, France, and Kunsthalle, Germany.

Khalil has received several awards; among them the first prize at the 1993 International Cairo Biennial and first prize in printmaking at the 2003 National Academy Awards in New York.

E Call 17 717-707.

When? February 1-26 | Event? Calligraphy workshop | Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre

When? February 1-15 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Albareh Art Gallery

Art of Scripture Are you looking to hone your artistic skills? Established calligrapher Saad Busaad holds a workshop this month titled ‘An Introduction to the Art of Ruqaa’.

Applicants as young as 12 years are required to submit a brief statement of why they are interested in taking the workshop.

The expert will introduce Arabic calligraphy and the main tools and materials used, with a special focus on a specific type of calligraphy — the Ruqaa.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? February 6 | Event? Concert | Venue? Baan Saeng Thai, Adliya

Paying Tribute

Harmony Bahrain presents a melodious musical journey into the past. Malarkoddi Pole 2014 will feature talented local musicians paying tribute to the legendary Indian music composer Salil Chowdhury, affectionately called Salilda.

The event starts at 7pm, featuring an orchestra of seven locally sourced talented musicians who will perform Malayalam, Hindi and Bengali songs.

Salil’s music is a blend of Eastern and Western music and his musical ability is widely recognised and acknowledged in the Indian and international film and music industry.

Salil Da composed for over 75 Hindi, 40 Bengali and around 26 Malayalam Films and several Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Gujrati, Oriya and Assamese Films.

E Call 33 227-100.

40 February 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happeningsclubssocieties When? February 20 | Event? Charity ball | Venue? Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

Make a Difference International Cancer Day, commemorated annually on February 4, sees the Bahrain Cancer Society (BCS) will host several events throughout the month. Keep your ears to the ground as the organisation will announce several charity events and lectures.

The BCS was established in 1989 as a voluntary nonprofitable organisation. Since then the society has worked hard to provide education and information to the public about causes of cancer, treatment options and methods of prevention.

If you are looking to lend a helping hand to the cause, BCS is continually looking for volunteers.

E Call 17 233-080 or visit

www.bahraincancer.com.

Dance from the Heart In the spirit of romance, this club gives you the chance to dress up to the nines and dance the night away in support of a worthy cause.

Are you tired of the same old routine? This month mix it up a bit with a night of generosity, inspiration, and of course, dancing!

The American Women’s Association, (AWA) in conjunction with Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain, hosts an affair to remember in the hope of raising funds to support the treatment of heart disease patients in the Kingdom.

The event, titled From Heart to Heart Charity Ball, promises to please both the party-goer and the philanthropist in you.

“By working in collaboration with the hotel, the AWA strongly feels that we could pool our resources together and create a successful charity event, thereby giving back to the community in a more substantial way,” says Lori Cunningham of the AWA. With tickets priced at BD30, the net proceeds of the evening go to support heart attack patients at the renowned Mohammed bin Khalifa Cardiac Centre at the Bahrain Defence

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Force Hospital. The centre, considered one of the island’s best in the field, boasts a team of highly qualified, experienced specialists wellversed in the most progressive, leading-edge techniques of cardiology. Patients are provided a broad spectrum of comprehensive cardiac care from treatment, diagnosis and prevention to research and education.

To shake things up during the ball, a silent auction will be added to the evening’s schedule with some exciting items up for auction. Cementing their hope to raise as many funds as possible, all the money from the sold auction items will go to the cardiac centre. Participants have the chance to win a weekend in Dubai, a BD100 gift card from Bahrain City Centre and a number of artworks.

“To add a unique element to the theme, a red dress will be designed and created by a local fashion designer and will be up for bids,” continues Lori.

The evening’s festivities will also include a reception in the lobby. The tickets cover a welcome drink and a three-course meal followed by a DJ party — and lots of dancing. The event is held in conjunction with Mövenpick Hotel’s tenth anniversary.

Tickets are available at the hotel’s reception.

The new year promises to be exciting for AWA as the organisation is set to celebrate its 40th anniversary in the Kingdom. Although this marks the first time that the association has worked with the heart centre, AWA is no stranger to charity work and has previously helped a number of organisations.

For more of their exciting events, keep your eyes open for their annual affairs which are staples in Bahrain’s event calendar. These include their annual Mother’s Day Fashion Show in May and the Cherry Tree Trot in November.

E Call 66 337-886.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningskidsteens When? February 7 | Event? Saikoro Wars | Venue? Bahrain International Circuit

Enter the Battleground!

Art Contest

Calling all gamers for an epic showdown, this virtual war zone promises an exhilarating time for you and your mates.

Give your gaming consoles a break and take your virtual playground outside the four walls of your room. Saikoro Wars hit the Kingdom on February 7 at the Bahrain International Circuit with a plethora of exciting games and alternate reality experiences you can enjoy all day.

So whether you’re a fan of anime, wearing costumes, playing arcades, or tabletop games; they’ve got everyone covered. For each category of games, there are a number of activities, interactive sessions and play-offs not to be missed.

Unlike its previous editions, there is more focus on tabletop and board games, therefore, this year the gaming zone has been scratched and competitive arcade games have been installed. Come prepared for over 20 different kinds of computer and board games that can engage up to 40 players at a time!

In addition to all this, this is also the first time that the organisers are introducing the region’s first Alternate Reality Game (ARG). The confirmed list of programmes includes a Cosplay contest, Dub That Anime, Baka Baka Gemu, trivia game show, talent show, treasure trail and clan battle showdown in the anime and Cosplay section.

The board games section consists of The Resistance, The Resistance: Avalon, 7 Wonders, Cards Against Humanity, Dungeons & Dragons, Elder Sign, Munchkin, No Thanks!, Once Upon a Time, Say Anything, Shadow Hunters, Small World, Taboo, Zombie Dice and Ultimate Werewolf: Ultimate Edition.

44 February 2014

Staying in character There is also loads of action in the role-playing section. Set up in medieval times, two factions, the Overlords (Evil) and the Heroes (Good guys), take each other on. A total of 20 players, 10 in each clan, can play this at a time.

In the past such events have been hugely successful with kids and gaming enthusiasts coming from all over GCC to attend.

To compete in the costume contest one must be an attendee of SaikoroWars and be present and in costume to register.

Contestants 12 years old or younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The costumes can be based on anime or manga characters or similar themed genre like video games, comic books, sci-fi, movies, or fantasy.

Entry tickets are priced at BD5.5 and 10 per cent of the proceeds go towards charity. The event takes place within the Paddock area at Bahrain International Circuit.

Toyota Bahrain, in association with Ebrahim K Kanoo, has organised a fun and creative competition for kids. The 8th Dream Car Art Contest gives you a chance to draw your dream car of the future and take home a number of cash prizes. The age categories are under eight, 8-11 years and 12-15 years.

Only a hand-drawn coloured artwork with a background in any standard medium can be submitted. In the under eight category, the winner gets BD200, BD150 for second position and BD100 for third.

The first prize in the other two groups is an iPad Air and the runner-up gets an iPad Air Mini.

In addition to this, winners will join the international competition and be invited to the global award ceremony in Japan.

E Call 39 990-011 or visit www.sw.ninxa.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningssportsrecreation When? February 7-29 | Event? Junior tennis championship | Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club

Junior Grand Slam Young tennis fans to gear up for an exciting season of tournaments, starting with this event to get into the swing of things.

The 19th Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK) Junior Tennis Championship gets under way this month at the Bahrain Tennis Club in Juffair. This championship is a much sort-after-sporting event for young players aged between eight and 16-years-old.

The players are divided into eight categories — unisex singles under eight years and 10 years, boys singles under 12, 14, 16 years, boys doubles under 14, 16 years and girls singles under 16 years.

Tennis has always been popular with among children and the club has a few stars that are expected to shine during the tournament. Key players to watch out for are Frana Ugarkovic, Areej Fareh, Kalpaka Pradip, Hussain Dawani, Ali Dawani, Youssef Dhaif, Mohammed Fazli and Ahmed Rizk.

“We aim to popularise the sport through our club, being one of the leading hosts in Bahrain of competitions for both kids and adults,” says Hamdi Jawad, head of administration, coaching and tournaments at the club. “It takes a great amount of effort to organise any such event, especially if you are trying to do that in a professional manner and according to international standards.”

46 February 2014

BTC is expecting about 150-175 children to register for the tournament. In its previous editions close to 160 players participated.

Matches start at 4pm on a daily basis and the daily schedules can be checked at the club’s reception and website.

Entry per played is BD2 for singles and doubles. The club even conducts several junior training programmes throughout the year with gaps during the tournaments.

A perfect serve The Bahrain Tennis Club has been a hum for tennis aficionados in the country for a long, with eight courts coupled with qualified trainers that’ll help you master your game. You can join at any level — beginner or advanced, armature or professional or can just enjoy the exhilarating workout the sport provides.

In addition to tennis facilities, the club boasts its own recreation room, gymnasium and mosque.

“Making tennis available to all ages, abilities, and social groups, the club not only aims to maintain a competitive, team and tournament level play in singles and doubles, but also to provide a strong social atmosphere all year round,” adds Hamdi.

When? Until February 6 Event? 16th Asian Handball Championship Venue? Various locations Twelve teams from across Asia compete for the title.

E Call 17 176-666.

When? February 7 Event? Full Marathon and Relay Venue? Awali East Gate Bahrain Road Runners and Bapco organise two exciting races.

E Email info@bahrainroadrunners.com.

When? February 7 and 8 Event? HSBC Youth Rugby Series Venue? Bahrain Rugby and Football Club The youth rugby competition is spread across four tournaments.

E Call 17 695-809.

When? February 7-29 Event? Junior Tennis Championship Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club The 19th BBK Junior Tennis Championship gets under way.

E Call 17 729-561.

When? February 16 Event? Girls International Soccer Tournament Venue? Riffa Views International School The school kicks off its sports season with the tournament.

E Call 16 565-000.

E Call 17 729-561.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Little Picassos Art Competition 2013 The 2013 Little Picassos Drawing Competition took place on the last month at the Seef Mall Extension. In this year’s theme “When I Grow Up...” children expressed their thoughts and ideas on what they want to be in the future in their chosen professions. The event d was attended by children, parents and visitors from all over Bahrain and from other GCC countries as well

Aneisha D'Silva, Dinesh Ramankutty, General Manager of S&I, Lynne Al Wazzan, Ali Al Wazzan, Deputy Director of Intercol, Mohammed Abdulla Al Ahmadi from Bahrain Down Syndrome, Michael Falcus & Jenny

Lynne Al Wazzan, Charity Chairperson of Intercol; Ali Al Wazzan, Deputy Director of Intercol; and Dinesh Ramankutty, General Manager of Intercol’s Science and Industry Division presenting the donation cheque to Mohammed Abdulla Al Ahmadi from Bahrain Down Syndrome Society

Lynne Alwazzan with Samaa and Jenna - children of the Secretary of Shaikha Lulwa Hind Al Khalifa

Shaun, Michael, Anushka, Divya & Amanda

Kenneth DaCosta from YooMoo, Lynne Alwazzan, Mohammed Abdulla Al Ahmadi, Ali Al Wazzan, Deputy Director of Intercol & Errine Stone, General Manager of Organic Cafe

Mohammed Ali & his sisters

Santosh Pai & Sunita

Chandni, Lynne Alwazzan, Nainika & Dinesh Ramankutty

Dr Ali & daughter with Lynne Alwazzan

Divya & Amanda

Ziyad App & family

A participant with her father

Michael, Jenny & Anushka

One of the participants

Winners at the awards ceremony

48 February 2014

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Bringing you a lovely selection of fresh and premium goods Alosrasupermarket Follow us on @Alosra_Bahrain Alosra Supermarket Saar 17 697558 Amwaj 16 033773 Durrat 77 770001 Riffa 17 750006 www.alosraselect.com Insta

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Al Aali Art Fest 2014 Under the patronage of Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Al Aali Shopping Complex held an opening ceremony for the Al Aali Art Fest 2014. The opening was also attended by HE Ahmed Shahizan Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador

Hani Al Aali, Shaikh Salman, Jano Mouawad & HE Ahmed Shahizan

Mehdi, Rose, Abbas, Lynne & Norma

Mala, Rana & Tosin

HE Ahmed Shahizan & Masuma

Marise, Dr Marafie, Wassan & Fakhiya

Bobby

Jano Mouawad & Abdulwahab Al Hawaj

Anamika, Raka, Jayati & Sriparna

Navas & Talal

Chitra, Marise & Shafiqa

50 February 2014

Hani Al Aali, HE Ahmed Shahizan, Hana Al Aali, Shaikh Salman & Jano Mouawad

Sarah & Sadia

Ella, Najoor & Prakash

Sushil Sasheendran

Noor, Dr Ghaniya & Sue

Bob

Zainab & Nehad

Shaikh Salman & Ali Hussain

Faiza Saeed

Vrushali

Ameena

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

LuLu Hypermarket Best Of British Festival Launch LuLu Hypermarket’s British Week festivities began with the Hypermarket's ‘Best of British’ festival which was inaugurated at the Hidd Hypermarket

by HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador. The festival promised shoppers some of the best that Britain has to offer and showcased everything from food to household items. The inaugural event offered a glimpse of quintessential British culture, with a concert of popular British tunes by professional local singers, a student theatre enactment of a Shakespearean scene and music by the students of the British School of Bahrain and a rousing performance by the Royal Marine Band

HE Iain Lindsay & Khalid Al Zayani open the festival

HE Iain Lindsay, Khalid Al Zayani & Juzer Rupawala get ready to cut the celebratory cake

John, Mazen Al Umran & Nabeel Ajoor

Nadine, Rietaj, Salma & Naya

Nisha, Eleil, Siona & Pratheep

A play being enacted

52 February 2014

Geoff, Ronnie, Geg, Juzer & Kaleem

Bridget & HE Iain Lindsay with John

Ameer, Arshad & Kamath

Marianne & Frances

Debbie, Robert & Russ

Vinod & Vineeth

Gary & Sally

Ravi with Royal Marine drummers

Rahul

Dr Charles

Lee & Sam

Rob

Summer

Ahmed, Noora & Mariam

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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offer is valid until february 27, 2014 Toyota Showroom - Sitra 17 730 730 www.toyota.com.bh

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blippthismonth product or service in writing, we enable you to jump straight to relevant digital assets such as watching a video.

“As such, Blippar presents a game-changing new content medium to instantly convert print into a huge range of instantaneous, interactive experiences,” says David M. Robertson, publishing director at Red House Marketing. “From web-linking and video through to polling, gaming, photo fun, competitions and much, much more, this app will enrich our print titles. Solutions are limited only by our imagination.”

A significant feature of Blippar is that it can turn a single image (the jump-off page) into multiple web-links, as well as offering a creative augmented layer with a host of additional, interactive features.

Get Blipping!

This month we introduce a new print-to-digital technology for our readers.

Now you can seamlessly jump from the printed world into the digital one.

The word ‘Blipp’ is one that will become a fundamental part of the vocabulary that we use together with Bahrain This Month.

This market-leading platform for mobile image-recognition and augmented reality technology comes from a company called Blippar, whose website can be found at www.blippar.com.

In its simplest form, the technology connects the printed world with the digital one, opening up a raft of opportunities to engage with our readers. Now, not only can we talk about a

Where to ‘blipp’ this month There are four opportunities to ‘blipp’ in this issue of Bahrain This Month. The first is adjacent to this article — the interview with Patrick Schwerdtfeger. On this page you will see an orange box; this explains what digital assets you can connect to when ‘blipping’ the page. You’ll find a similar box on all the pages from which you can ‘blipp’.

On one of our bystander pages, the launch of the VIVA 4G (page 87), you can connect to a video of the press conference as well as an exclusive interview with the VIVA CEO for Bahrain.

The JLR Back Seat Chat article includes a ‘blipp’ this month, on page 58. In addition there’s an opportunity to win a couple of prizes linked to Valentine’s Day through our ‘Blipp & Win’ offer on page 120.

All the pages that you can ‘blipp’ contain a marker. Look for the small, slightly-tilted rectangular marker above the orange box, which indicates the page (or half-page) that can be blipped.

More than just publications The opportunities to use Blippar are not limited to just publications; anything that is printed can be ‘blipped’ to jump to the digital world. For instance, your business card could be augmented to leave clients with an opportunity to explore your products and services.

E For further information about the use of Blippar for your organisation, email David M. Robertson at blippar@redhousemarketing.com.

How Does Blippar Work?

This three-step graphic explains what you need to do; download the app, take a picture of the page using the app and you will be in the digital world.

Platforms You will need the minimum platform as noted below on your mobile device for Blippar to work: • iPhones/iPads: iOS5 and above • Andriod devices: Android 2.3.7and above • Nokia/Windows: Windows 8 • BlackBerry: Z10 devices only

54 February 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Social Media Insights Patrick Schwerdtfeger

BTM: If an SME could only use three social media tools, which one of these four would you drop: FaceBook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn? Is there a tool you’d add?

Patrick: I’d drop Twitter. You can build a following on Twitter, but these people are scattered across the world and might have nothing in common. I’d definitely add YouTube to my list since it’s been the most effective tool for me. I embedded YouTube videos in my blog and it completely changed my business. Traffic started converting into business once I had added the video content.

BTM: Is content still ‘king’ in the world of social media?

Patrick: You have two things to consider: content and community engagement. The question is, which one has the larger impact? Without community engagement nobody will know about your content, even though it may be world-class.

Community engagement is more important because you can gain traction with it even if your content isn’t up to scratch.

BTM: Are people increasingly relying on games instead of the traditional marketing brochure to get their message across?

Patrick: There’s a ‘gamification’ happening across the entire world because most people are bored and disengaged today.

Games succeed in engaging users by immersing them into the experience, making them feel part of the story or even asking them for their story. Businesses can then include that within their campaigns.

DAVID M ROBERTSON This small business and social media speaker offers bite-sized solutions to help organisations capitalise on social media and marketing trends.

BLIPP THIS PAGE TO: WATCH THE VIDEO OF THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH PATRICK SCHWERDTFEGER LEARN ABOUT HIS BOOK CONNECT WITH PATRICK ON YOUTUBE BUY HIS BOOK

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain This Month (BTM) caught up with Patrick Schwerdtfeger on the sidelines of Social Media Masters Forum recently held in the Kingdom.

BTM: What’s the one activity you would advise an SME never to outsource, and why?

Patrick: It’s the essence of the voice. Even big companies today are falling over themselves trying to act like little companies and that’s because social media caters to the individual voice.

You can outsource the development of strategy and even technology but the actual communication should be kept in-house. Social media implementation, therefore, can be tricky because every company has to have its unique voice and unique idea.

BTM: Is there a fear of failure in businesses, that people avoid failure without realising there’s ‘no gain without pain’?

Patrick: To me, failure is the essence of greatness. With failure, you’re going to expand your comfort zone. But small businesses can afford to fail only, say, three times before they’re wiped out. You can have 12 ideas but can only fund three. So which three are the most likely to succeed?

BTM: If you came back to Bahrain in a year’s time, what would you like to see changed here in terms of the social media scene?

Patrick: I’d like there to be success stories in Bahrain. When you hear of success stories in America, Amsterdam or Taipei, it seems distant. There’s always this human instinct, ‘oh, but that could never work for us’. But if someone tries something that works here, then people think, ‘that guy is just down the road’.

A local celebrity will inspire people who haven’t embraced social media to date.

Patrick Schwerdtfeger is the award-winning author of Marketing Shortcuts for the Self Employed, and a regular speaker on small business and social media.

February 2014 55

spotlightthismonth

Building on Dreams HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa with officials at the launch

xxxxx Through Riyadat, the SCW aims to pave the way for Bahraini women to start their own enterprises as part of the economic empowerment programme it launched several years ago to serve Bahraini female job seekers

The recently launched Riyadat in Aa’li is a pioneering facility that seeks to enable women to translate their passion into a viable business.

56 February 2014

Female enterprise in Bahrain has received a big boost with the opening of Riyadat, the first business incubation facility that exclusively caters for start-ups run by women.

Spearheaded by the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), the Bahrain Women's Competence Development Centre (Riyadat) in Aa’li was launched by HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of HM King Hamad and SCW president, late last year.

With the BD3 million centre designed as a mall, the SCW strives to promote a culture of entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation among women in the Kingdom. The facility is spread over three floors with a total of 60 units. Two lower floors are allocated for women’s business units, showcasing products related to clothing, accessories, gifts, furniture, perfumes and publication. The top floor functions as a business centre, with 17 service units providing facilities such as restaurants, cafés, mobile service providers and design companies.

“Through Riyadat, the SCW aims to pave the way for Bahraini women to start their own enterprises as part of the economic empowerment programme it launched several years ago to serve Bahraini female job seekers,” HRH Princess Sabeeka said.

Riyadat has been established in partnership with the Bahrain Development Bank and the Bahrain Centre for Industrial Development for promoting women’s economic empowerment and providing work opportunities for women wishing to set up their own businesses.

HRH Princess Sabeeka has stressed the need to provide necessary support for women in the field of entrepreneurship to enable them to contribute to the national economy and promote their role as partners in the nation-building process.

“The centre will provide economic security for the Bahraini women through cooperation between the public and the private sectors,” she added.

In addition, she lauded the partnership between the SCW and the BDB in implementing the project, which is a first in the Arab region, while praising the contribution of Tamkeen in realising the centre.

The units at Riyadat reflect Bahraini women’s expertise and capabilities in spheres as diverse as architecture, design, nutrition, aromatherapy and agriculture, states the SCW. Tenants have access to a range of support services including a low rental fee further subsidised by Tamkeen, accounting and advisory services and access to conference and meeting rooms.

Riyadat offers businesses an incubation period of three years, during which female entrepreneurs are expected to stabilise their venture and find a foothold in the market. Bahraini women who have floated new ventures, and who own the majority shares of their business, are eligible to apply for incubation services at the centre.

E Visit www.riyadat.com.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

spotlightthismonth JAGUAR LAND ROVER

Backseat Chat A seasoned academician, a strategic entrepreneur and a keen observer, our guest is a prominent name in the Kingdom’s business fraternity and a candidate for the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s board elections.

Dr Osama Al Baharna with George F. Middleton

58 February 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Describing himself as an observant listener rather than a talker, Dr Osama Al Baharna, owner of the Continental Group, joins George Middleton for a conversation in a Jaguar XF. He talks about juggling the two roles of an academic and a successful businessman, his expectations and what he hopes for the Bahraini youth in the SME sector and the changes he intends to bring about if elected to the board of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI).

Watch this interview on www.bahrainthismonth.com and www.euromotors.com.bh.

George: Dr Osama, How have you managed your roles as an academic and an entrepreneur over the years?

Dr Osama: When I started in the business, back in 1997, I had to really learn it. But later things improved, with the help of my managers and the team I built that could implement my strategies. The work in academia is more structured, so it wasn’t much of a problem to handle that part of the two jobs or the two lives.

George: How do you think the government should set about getting young Bahrainis to become productive and efficient employees of the future, in small businesses particularly?

Dr Osama: I believe to set up small businesses and to become a good entrepreneur you need skills, to be able to provide services to the society. So we have to focus more on vocational training. It’s a totally different set of skills than having a baccalaureate or a technical degree.

George: What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs starting a business themselves?

Dr Osama: First of all I would encourage them and I think it is wonderful to have your own business. It’s a lot of hard work but there are the rewards of success. Certainly being your own boss is a wonderful feeling. I would also encourage them to innovate and find a new niche rather than duplicate what is already there in the market.

Thank you so much for this relaxing backseat chat. Being in a Jaguar always takes me back to the years I spent in England. It’s a very comfortable ride and I thoroughly enjoyed this experience in Jaguar XF. — Dr Osama

George: What made you decide to stand for the BCCI election?

Dr Osama: I think the BCCI can do more for the business community. It is time for the BCCI to lead rather than be led.

That this moment I have the experience, the ideas, certainly the capability and more importantly (I am) willing to put in the time, in order to help the business community in Bahrain and to improved the business environment for the benefit of everyone.

George: Osama, what personal qualities do you think have made you a successful businessman and academic?

Dr Osama: I think I am a patient person and a listener rather than a talker and I think that helped me in both my academic and business careers.

Dr Osama is part of the Tadhamon Group, likeminded people he says who want to work to strengthen the bond between the chamber and its members. They aim to proactively participate in building a strong national economy through effective BCCI programmes and working committees.

His personal focus is to encourage the creation of small businesses and entrepreneurs, and the group looks forward to adopting strategies that benefit all of the BCCI’s members.

The Jaguar XF is now available from Euro Motors, the official distributor for Jaguar Land Rover in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

BLIPP THIS PAGE TO: WATCH THE BACK SEAT CHAT VIDEO WITH DR OSAMA AL BAHARNA EXPLORE THE JAGUAR XR VIEW JAGUAR XF IMAGE GALLERY CONTACT EURO MOTORS

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2014 59

bystanderthismonth

Sheraton Bahrain Staff Party The Sheraton Bahrain Hotel hosted its annual Associates party at the hotel's ballroom last month.

Associates enjoyed fine food and plenty of fun & games

Salma & Cristalyn

Mamdouh, Stella, Joey & Karlheinz

Dr Khalid & Wesam

Kumar, Ghalib & Ramesh

Vijay

Payton, Perwyn & Preston

Yousef, Jessy & Nita

Vilma & DJ Alex

Cristalyn & Rama

Mohammed Ali & Mohammed

Aditya, Mrs Ratna, Jacob & Aditya

Anthony, Ninad, Kishore & Aminul

60 February 2014

Othman & Mamdouh

Jose, Daryll & John

Edwin, Agnelo & Jose

Joanne & Joanita

Aruna, Suresh, Madhu & Sadik

Dibyajyoti, Pratik, Bishwajit & Mohammed

Wilson, Arcie & Kat

Aileen & Malou

Raj

Jacklin & Walter

Prasad & Tej

Mariel & Joseph

www.bahrainthismonth.com

businessthismonth When? February 4-6 | Event? Gulf Industry Fair | Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Conference Centre

HRH Prince Khalifa bn Salman Al Khalifa at the launch last year

Where Business Speaks The Kingdom’s premier industrial exhibition has widened its presence this year with a host of regional and European players making an appearance for the first time.

The Gulf Industry Fair (GIF) has assumed greater significance this year thanks to a number of factors. Firstly, two major industrial players from the region are coming on board as exhibitors for the first time. Modon, the Saudi Industrial Property Authority, is responsible for developing and supervising industrial lands in Saudi Arabia. It’s also charged with regulating and promoting industrial estates and technology zones. The authority’s brief is to encourage private sector involvement in industrial areas in order to generate employment for Saudi nationals.

The other big regional player, Ducab, is one of the leading cable producers in the Middle East, offering cable components and accessories from three manufacturing units in the UAE. The company also operates a copper rod plant and a PVC compound manufacturing facility.

Organisers believe the entry of these players will greatly embellish the GIF’s offerings and put it on the forefront of trade fairs in the northern Gulf region.

“Modon’s larger goal is to have a Saudi industry capable of competing locally and globally. Their participation for the first time is recognition that it is by far the region’s premier industrial event,” notes Jubran Abdulrahman, managing director of Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions (HCE), event organisers.

Also this month

European presence The growing appeal of the GIF is evidenced further by the presence of several European participants this year. Leading companies from the Czech Republic and the Netherlands will promote their goods and network to develop new markets in the region.

The Czech line-up includes Arkon Flow Systems s.r.o, Envi-Pur Ltd and Kralovopolska Slevarna, all of which have partnered with High Mark Trading.

The Dutch pavilion is designed around the theme ‘Meet the Dutch Masters’. Replicas of the works of Rembrandt and Van Gogh will adorn the pavilion to emphasise the Dutch experience and promote the Netherlands as a destination for investment as well as tourism. The Dutch segment will feature MH Hydraulics, HD Demolition, Gutteling, Composite Hoses, DP Offshore, Bell Dredging Pumps and BOA recycling Equipment.

Key sectors The exhibition will feature dedicated zones earmarked for aluminium (supported by Alba), ports and maritime (ASRY), industrial facilities (Majaal), industrial processes (Ahmed Mansoor Al Aali), and energy (Noga and Bapco).

The aluminium zone will reflect the sector’s positive global demand out-look, which continues to drive opportunity for downstream suppliers such as Bahraini companies ITSS, Garmco, Balexco, Midal Cables, Ameeri Industries and Turk Mechanical, all of which will exhibit at the show.

E Call 17 299-116.

When? February 2-5 Event? 15th Middle East Corrosion Conference and Exhibition Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Industry leaders share ideas, products and services in relation to corrosion.

E Call 17 810-733.

When? February 4 Event? 7th Gulf International Industry Fair Venue? BIECC Take part in an exhibition of the latest trends across several industries.

E Call 17 299-116 or 17 293-131.

When? February 4 Event? BCCI meeting Venue? TBA The chamber discusses the development of the exhibition sector.

E Call 17 380-000.

When? February 5-6 Event? Bahrain International SMEs Empowerment Conference Venue? TBA The event focuses on empowering SMEs in a knowledge-based economy.

E Call 17 311-602.

When? February 10-11 Event? Middle East Insurance Forum Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Market leaders and speakers from the insurance sector gather for a discourse.

E Call 17 713-000.

62 x Conference - 64 x Entrepreneur - 66 x Interview

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2014 61

businessconference When? February 26-28 | Event? 11th GHA Conference | Venue? Gulf Hotel Convention Centre

Caring for the Heart Some of the world’s best cardiology experts will converge in Bahrain to examine the latest issues in cardiac care.

One of the region’s biggest cardiac conferences will be in town when Bahrain hosts the 11th Gulf Heart Association (GHA) Conference jointly with the 4th Bahrain Heart Association Congress at the end of the month.

“This is an ideal platform to facilitate discussion on the latest topics in the field of cardiology, to enhance awareness of cardiac diseases and how to manage them, to listen to key opinion leaders and experts in the field of cardiology and cardiovascular care, and earn Continuous Medical Education (CME) credit hours,” says Dr Adel Khalifa member of organising committee.

The conference is held under the patronage of HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister of Bahrain. There are two workshops on the first day: an ECG workshop for junior doctors, nurses and medical students while the second workshop will focus on 2D echocardiogram and cater to physicians and nurses.

The main conference on the second and third day will feature 36 speakers who will speak and make presentations on a wide range of cardiovascular conditions including cardiac electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, cardiac surgery, cardiac imaging and congenital heart disease. Over 500 doctors, nurses and health professionals from the region and internationally are expected to attend. Two medical societies, the European Society of Cardiology and the American College of Cardiology, will also participate.

An exhibition for pharmaceutical and medical device companies will run on the sidelines.

The GHA is a professional society established in 1999 to improve the quality of cardiac care in the region. E Call +971 4311-6300.

Dr Adel Khalifa

bystanderthismonth

Thai Tourism New Slogan Launch A media event was held to mark the launch of Tourism Authority of Thailand's new campaign slogan "Amazing Thailand it begins with the people". The event attended by travel agents and members of the media was held at the Royal Thai Restaurant, Gulf Hotel

Fadhel, Abdul Majeed & Muradi

George Williams

62 February 2014

Vachirachai

Hatsanai, Vachirachai, Witchu & Kunjana

Wadeea & Fakhri

Hatsanai & Kunjana

Ali & Khalid

Paween & Ronald

Abdulla Khalifa

Hassan

Hilary

Madiha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

businessentrepreneur

Giving from the Heart xxxxx Bahrainis love doing good; it’s part of our nature

Lana Al Attar and Ebrahim Al Mulla

SIMI KAMBOJ Bahrain is well known for the generosity of its people. An online venture now offers a platform to harness skills rather than just money for charity.

64 February 2014

Social awareness and volunteer work have always been popular in Bahrain, but it’s only recently that social entrepreneurship has started to flower in the Kingdom.

Charitime is one such social enterprise.

One of the winning ideas from the Startup Weekend competition in 2011, the Charitime portal brings together volunteers offering skills and people who are willing to pay for them.

Volunteering is serious business in countries such as the United States of America. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, one in every four Americans volunteers, with the estimated value of community service time pegged at US$175 billion.

In Bahrain, charity has been part of the local culture and initiatives such as bake sales and knitting shawls are common in many neighbourhoods.

“Bahrainis love doing good; it’s part of our nature,” says Lana Al Attar, CEO. “With this project, we’ve created a platform where people can donate their time rather than money. This brings a deeper engagement in the process of giving.”

The idea was initially conceived as a talent pool where companies could source skills from volunteers, but since these projects turned out to be onerous, entailing several weeks’ work, the founders decided to break it up into shorter, more manageable chunks.

The new website launched in November last year hosts offers from 20 volunteers. The skills on offer are diverse, ranging from start-up consultation, website design and domain registration to baking, personal fitness training, CV writing and sketch making. Since its founding, Charitime has raised close to BD 1000. Around 300 people have shown interest and registered with the social enterprise.

“Many of our volunteers are professionals or hobbyists who are experts in their fields. Anyone with a skill that they’re passionate about can participate as long as their work is almost professional quality,” adds Ebrahim Al Mulla, co-founder. The team, which also includes co-founder Taimoor Dar, hopes to spotlight young Bahraini talent with their portal.

“There are people who are so good at what they do that they could easily launch a career out of it. We promote talented individuals and generate publicity for them through our site as well as referrals,” notes Lana. Both Lana and Ebrahim have pledged their skills on the portal.

A graphic designer by profession, Ebrahim has already raised money for ten wheelchairs through assignments he did in website and logo design. Lana, who is a professional web developer, is offering her services to design single-page websites for BD50. She’ll donate the money raised to a charity in Bangladesh, where for BD150 one can sponsor a child’s educational and health care needs annually. The duo point out that they do a lot of background checks before they decide on the charities.

“We can’t fund something that’s not supposed to be funded.

We usually favour government-approved charities. Further, we usually demand invoices and proof that the money paid was utilised in the right manner,” says Lana.

E Visit www.Charitime.org.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Come in. Sit down. Have a nice meal.

t +973 17311280 f +973 17311281 bldg.175 rd. 2608 adliya 326

Shoo Fee Ma Fee Restaurant

businessinterview

Striving for Excellence xxxxx Of all the goods that the retail operations deal with, food is one that affects the health of our customers most directly “The food segment is a very big part of our business and we’ve always been particular about ensuring that we deliver the best standards to our customers. This certification will recognise these efforts, help us document the processes and put in place a grid of tests and periodic validation to ensure that certification standards are constant,” he adds.

“Of all the goods that the retail operations deal with, food is one that affects the health of our customers most directly.

We’re, therefore, careful that only the best shall enter and leave our food chain.”

Operating in a small and competitive market such as Bahrain, what separates Lulu from other retailers is the continuous value addition it offers at its stores.

“Price plays a major role in influencing purchase decisions and we continually try to offer exceptional value to our customers,” he notes.

Lulu Hypermarket has a tradition of celebrating seasons and special occasions by flying in special produce and foodstuffs for customers in Bahrain. The hypermarket’s annual Mango Festival in the summer makes available dozens of varieties of mangoes from all over the world to Bahrain. The recently concluded Great British Week saw the retailer bringing in the best of British brands and food stuff to the Kingdom.

Juzer Rupawala

SIMI KAMBOJ A new food safety certification brings further validation to Lulu Hypermarket’s commitment to exceptional quality and customer service.

66 February 2014

Lulu Hypermarket now has another feather in its cap.

“We’re proud to announce that we’re the first hypermarket in Bahrain to meet the strict regulations and very high standards of the ISO 22000-2005 team, thus raising the bar on our already admirable food safety standards,” notes Juzer Rupawala, regional director.

The ISO 22000 is globally used by organisations in the food chain, including retailers such as big hypermarkets, who run their own kitchens in addition to frozen and fresh food sections.

The certification means that Lulu Hypermarket has been recognised by a global authority for its quality control in the food sector and for implementing affiliated food industry management systems, compliance with regulatory and statutory and customer requirements.

Juzer believes the nod comes as validation for the retailer’s continuous endeavour to ensure highest standards in the food chain, from storage to preparation, display and sale.

Looking forward Juzer believes that a retailer must introduce new experiences and services constantly to make the experience of shopping more interesting and fruitful for its clientele.

Whether it is the use of mobile apps to help locate specific merchandise within the hypermarket, offering home delivery services to customers, a retailer must constantly reinvent itself to stay ahead of the curve.

“We’re currently evaluating a number of initiatives in improving customer service and in making shopping a more rewarding experience for our loyal customers. We’re committed to innovation and exceptional customer service,” he says.

Lulu currently has four outlets in Bahrain, with the largest retail footprint in the Kingdom. Audit research Deloitte recently placed Lulu as the 9th fastest growing retail chain in the world.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

coverstory

Celebrating Commitment xxxxx We’ve navigated well through the regional turbulence for the past few years. We’re especially grateful to our customers for the trust they showed in Citi and for standing by us throughout this period

Navneet Kampani

SIMI KAMBOJ This bank has a long tradition of enduring challenges and emerging stronger each time; now it is marking 25 years of consumer banking services in the Kingdom.

68 February 2014

Citibank is no stranger to market turmoil, whether in Bahrain or elsewhere in the world. Over the past century, the bank has time and again launched new strategies, taken a few risks and beaten the odds to maintain its competitive advantage.

In Bahrain over the last nine years, Navneet Kampani has steered Citibank’s consumer banking operations through turbulent times as a regional crisis unfolded on the heels of a global meltdown. The current year marks the stabilising of the market and a revival of customer confidence in Bahrain, believes Navneet.

“We’ve navigated well through the regional turbulence for the past few years. We’re especially grateful to our customers for the trust they showed in Citi and for standing by us throughout this period,” says Navneet, head of consumer banking, Citibank Bahrain.

During the course of its 25th anniversary year, Navneet plans to grow the consumer banking segment in the Kingdom with launches of new products and services over the coming months.

An ideal base Citibank has been present in Bahrain for nearly half a century and considers the region critical to its global franchise. The bank commenced operations here in 1969 and the consumer banking division was launched 20 years later, in 1989.

Although Citibank’s consumer banking services cover UAE, Egypt and Bahrain in the region, the bank maintains a strong operational base. It provides support for 18 countries within Citibank’s network from the Kingdom.

A large pool of local talent and better quality of life are the key factors that have made Bahrain a destination of choice for multinational corporations.

“Bahrain offers an excellent platform for a regional hub, and companies which had moved their regional headquarters out of the Kingdom in 2011 should consider moving back here,” observes Navneet.

The main reason for this being that organisational efficiency has become the watchword for every enterprise worldwide since the financial crisis.

“Companies worldwide want to cut down costs, be leaner and more efficient in their operations. The cost of living in Bahrain compares favourably to every other country in the region.

Besides, Bahrain has a strong social environment that helps people grow,” he notes.

Delivering value Credit cards have been the frontrunners in Citibank’s consumer banking offerings, and Navneet believes the bank’s three main cards rank as the top three in the market, promising the most value.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Citibank introduced its credit cards reward programme in 2001 and was the first to launch a co-branded airline card with Emirates in 2005. Three years later, it introduced the black card, the Citibank Ultimate credit in Bahrain. In 2012, it unveiled the Citi Premier Miles credit card, the only card of its kind in Bahrain with multiple airlines (seven at the last count) as redemption partners.

“We are about to launch exciting credit card offerings this year that will further enhance the value proposition for our customers,” says Navneet.

For high net worth individuals, Citibank offers a host of wealth management, investment, insurance and priority banking services that are flexible and can be tailored to suit the customer’s requirements.

“For instance, we offer our globetrotting clientele a choice to host their accounts in most international cities they happen to frequent. This includes London, Jersey, Geneva, Dubai and Singapore in addition to Bahrain. Clients with off-shore banking requirements are assigned dedicated relationship managers to assist them with their transactions,” notes Navneet.

Citibank launched non-salary transfer personal loans back in 2004. To date, it remains the only bank in Bahrain to offer personal loans without the requirement of a salary transfer.

“We’re aware that the two most important factors for a customer are value for money and service. We aim to meet all their expectations on these fronts,” he says.

In recent times, Citibank has reinforced its digital strategies with the relaunch of an enriched version of its website and Citi Mobile, a mobile application that provides a round-the-clock banking platform for those on the move.

The bank was adjudged the ‘Best Internet Bank’ four times, most recently in 2013, when it won the Global Finance Award for the Best Internet Consumer Bank.

Market challenges Asked about his business strategy during the regional turbulence, Navneet steps back in time to put things in a wider perspective.

“Since the global financial crisis in 2008, customers were losing their trust in banks as financial institutions collapsed one after the other. Even in that extreme environment, we were able to demonstrate our strength. We stayed in touch with our customers throughout this time with our dedicated client contact programme and they, in turn, maintained their trust in us,” he recalls.

Citibank may have weathered the financial crisis and the unrest of 2011 well, but growing consumer business locally within Bahrain’s small and saturated market is a tough proposition. In course of the last three decades, commercial banks have proliferated all over Bahrain while the size of the population has remained relatively constant. This means that finding new-to-bank customers remains the key challenge.

“For us to grow the business in Bahrain there needs to be a growth in the local population, growth within the industry as well as the infrastructure in the Kingdom,” he suggests.

Having said that, Citibank’s diverse business model and niche banking proposition, which relies heavily on its global network advantage, helps the bank maintain its edge as it marks 25 years of consumer banking excellence in the Kingdom.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Responsible finance It is widely recognised that the main factor behind the global financial crisis of 2008 was the aggressive risk appetite within the financial sector. It would seem that banking standards within the industry have now improved as a direct result of the earlier meltdown. Navneet says his bank has learnt from past experiences.

Citibank in Bahrain is always consious of customers' risk appetite and has never offerred leverage on its investment products. The bank’s tough stand on this issue has meant that it loses business at times, when customers looking for higher returns switch to other financial institutions. In this manner, Citibank helps customers carry out transactions in a responsible manner.

As Navneet perceives it, the financial services industry has toned down its expectations, but the customers’ expectations and appetite for risk continues to grow.

In its efforts to be a more transparent and responsible lender, Citibank has launched campaigns to educate customers in Bahrain to be more aware of the health of their finances and to manage their debt more responsibly.

Last year, the Bank launched its “Be an informed customer” campaign wherein it disseminated regular messages to its customers about the importance of updating their records and documents, stepping up internet security and guarding against fraudulent emails and phishing. On the subject of using credit responsibly, the bank told its customers to borrow within their means to reduce financial hardship, to have their financial goals in mind when using their credit and to keep track of their credit card payments.

Citi in Bahrain undertakes regular client checks in accordance with the local regulations as well as global standards. This leads further to dual level of checks in interacting with clients and helping them carry out transactions.

“On the wealth management side, we profile every investment client to understand their risk appetite, their expertise and their time horizon. Based on that, we recommend products that may be suitable for them,” says Navneet.

Starting in January this year, Citibank is the first player in Bahrain’s banking sector to move from mandatory to optional insurance on its loan products.

The Central Bank of Bahrain's framework has served stakeholders well in times of local, regional and international turbulence. It continues to work closely with banks and financial institutions in Bahrain and its consultative approach helps in an open communication process, facilitating dialogue while implementing best practices.

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iSustain Youth Event At The BIC Visionaries, Bahrain's first youth-targeted social development non-governmental organisation held an event titled Bahrain: iSustain at the Bahrain International Circuit's Paddock Club.

The event was held to promote the talented youth of Bahrain and introducing them to the subject of sustainable development. The event was attended by HE Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Premier

HE Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa & Fajer Alhashel

HE Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa being welcomed

Event organisers

Seema & Mohammed

Ali Khalid & Shaikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al Khalifa

Hassan, Rami, Mohammed, Ali, Mohammed, Waleed, Sausan & Mariam

Abdul Aziz & Ali Ahmed

Sawsan & Mariam

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Zainab

Mohammed, Abdulla & Shaikha

Marwa, Sarah & Razan

Shaikha & Dana

Kubra & Sawsan

Khulood

Shaikha & Shareefa

Asma & Ali

Rashid

Mariam

Fatima

Faisal

Ameena

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bystanderthismonth

GREAT British Week Sponsors Reception Under the patronage of HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of the Capital Governorate, HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, hosted a reception for the sponsors of the GREAT British Week. The event held at HE's residence

Mark, HE Iain Lindsay, Ed & Panos

Stuart & Mehdi with Bridget Lindsay

Afnan Al Zayani, HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Russ Dixon, HE Iain Lindsay, Khalid Al Zayani & Dr Abdulla Al Hawaj

Yousif & HE Shaikh Hisham

Vinny, Kelly & Yara

Michael & Heinz

Mohammed Al Qaed with Nabeel Ajoor

Rodney

Debbie with Mazen Al Umran

Adnan

Liam & Mark

GREAT British Week At The British School Students and faculty members of the British School of Bahrain celebrated the GREAT British Week. The whole school was glowing in red and white, and blue. Students and staff came to school dressed up in a quintessentially British way as a famous Great Briton or in The Red White and Blue of The Union Jack. The highlight of the day was the the Union Jack Mini Cooper at the school

Dana, Shouq, Nicole, Aurore, Sarah & Noor

Fawzia, Chris, Mahesh, Michael & Dave

Tania & Maryam

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Angela

Martin

Estelle

Charles, Tarryn, Julie Ann, Nadine, Maysa, Lisa & Ian

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Virtually a Reality Paden R Vaughan A project set to take the technological world by storm is the latest virtual reality devices. We take a closer look at this gadget.

Virtual reality headsets have always been seen as the future of interactive gaming and entertainment, and have existed in some shape or form for a while now. But there has been no shortage of problems with these devices, especially in terms of quality.

The future, and gaming itself, could be set to change with the announcement of not one but two new virtual reality devices — the Oculus Rift VR Headset and the Sony Virtual Reality Headset.

The Oculus Rift headset, the first of the two devices to be announced, has received an incredible amount of backing, almost US$2.5million, from sponsors who wish to see it become more than a virtual reality (pun intended). It’s due to be released sometime in the year, with a modest price tag of US$300.

Sony fought back with the announcement of their own virtual reality headset. The HMZ-T3W, which is based upon an earlier model of a headset, cost US$1,000 and wasn’t as compatible for gaming. And this is where the real potential of these devices begins to be seen — the potential for gaming and interactivity.

Also this month

Older virtual reality headsets never quite felt legitimate; the quality of these new devices makes the experience of using them seem almost seamless. So far there has not been much in terms of gaming developed for the devices as it will still be a while before they are able to keep up with the technology behind these headsets. Nevertheless, from what has been shown already, such as the RiftCoaster, they make it look like an incredible experience.

Gaming is not the only thing these devices could enhance; the headsets could be used for amazing learning experiences.

Imagine being able to go to the bottom of the seas where the pressure has made it impossible to venture to before, or travelling to the furthest recesses of our galaxy — the possibilities really are exciting.

However, as mentioned earlier, these devices are still very much in their early stages of development. So it will be a long time before their full potential can fully be realised.

With advances in gaming and technology in general being made all the time, such as the new consoles, and the way games themselves have developed, these will surely be magnificent.

I can’t wait for these new devices and the unbelievable technological revolution they could bring to the world of entertainment. Bearing in mind the many sci-fi films that have prophesied similar technological advancements, let’s hope we can distinguish between the two realities.

74 x Gadgets - 78 x Music - 80 x Computer games - 81 x Websites - 82 x Apps 83 x Movies

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Software update The Lumia Black update combines a host of new features from Microsoft and Nokia to make the Lumia smartphone experience even better.

In the kitchen The New Zedra kitchen mixer from Grohe has a smoothly integrated diverter button on the pull-out spray. It is no longer necessary to keep the button pressed while using the spray mode.

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Technologically Advanced The Xbox One and PlayStation 4 are old news. This month, we look at the gadgets which will help you start the year right!

Editor's pick!

Unleash the beats

If you want a great pair of wireless headphones, then the new Monster DNA Pro headphones are a fantastic buy. There’s active noise cancellation as well as advanced Bluetooth.

Crystal-clear sound

Philips is celebrated for its audio quality. The new Fidelio M1BT headphones are no exception and come with Bluetooth 4.0, a 40mm driver and memory foam ear cups to ensure noise cancellation.

Comfortable clarity

Bose’s in-ear headphones, the QuietComfort 20, may not boast the size of other ones from the brand. But, in terms of sound quality and noise cancellation, they’re still as good and include small microphones in the buds.

Stay connected

If you’re unable to browse the Internet on your TV, then the Google Chromecast is the perfect way for you to do so. It can be plugged directly into your TV’s HDMI port and lets you use phone apps as a remote.

Digital workout

If you’re looking to keep trim, then the Movea G-Series fitness tracker is the perfect accompaniment for your workout. Not only does it monitor steps, calories and other essentials, the tracker also monitors posture.

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Flexibility preferred

Lenovo’s Yoga 8 and 10 tablets can be positioned in various ways depending on how you wish to use them. Both models have an astonishing eight-hour battery life and a Quadcore processor.

Round two

After a fairly poor attempt at a gaming device the first time around, Archos has released the GamePad 2. A big step up from the previous product, it features a 720p display and 8GB of storage.

Run like the wind

The new TomTom Runner is a great watch for the sporty. Noting distance, calories burnt and pace, you can train more effectively with its full-screen graphics.

A lasting image

The Nikon Df is one of the most amazing cameras on the market right now. There’s a hefty price tag but, with a myriad of fantastic features, the camera is worth every penny.

The sound of music

The Anthem MRX 710 is a great AV receiver, with everything needed for a great home theatre. There are seven HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs in addition to dedicated iOS and Android apps to control it.

All gadgets are available online.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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The Latest Gizmos If you’re after some new gadgets, then you should visit Lulu Hypermarket, where you can expect to find the most competitive offers on the latest products.

Editor's pick!

BenQ 37-inch LED TV

Enjoy a lifelike visual experience with the new BenQ L7010 series. The ultra slim bezel, high-tech features and unparalleled media support delivers a whole new world of audiovisual indulgence.

Apple iPad Mini

Don’t let its size fool you. The iPad Mini boasts higher resolution than an HD TV. With a stunning retina display, every photo is incredibly detailed and vibrant; every line of text is crisp and clear.

PS4 Games

Have you broken into the incredible graphics of your PS4 yet?

Lulu’s range of assorted games can help you. They include Assassin’s Creed, Call of Duty: Ghosts, NBA Live 14 and Marvel Superheroes.

LG 55-inch LED TV

The latest introduction to Lulu’s electronics department is this full HD Smart TV, offering you the ultimate cinema experience in the comfort of your own home.

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LG 47-inch Smart LED

LG boasts some of the best TV line-ups in the market.

This 3D LED screen is no different, taking the ‘at home’ cinema experience to a new level with its convenient connectivity features.

JVC 50-inch 3D Smart TV

If you want to experience 3D viewing in all its glory, this is the way to go. The ultra slim and narrow bezel is complemented with stunning image quality, built-in Wi-Fi and a QWERTY keypad remote.

Samsung Galaxy S Duos

HTC One Mini

Good things do come in small packages. The 4.3-inch display offers high-quality imaging with a capable camera and a design that stays true to the original.

As far as dual SIM phones go, this Samsung device is miles ahead of its competition. The Galaxy S Duos has two fully functioning SIM slots, 1GHz single-core processor and 768MB of RAM.

Sony 50-inch 3D Smart LED

This full HD TV offers viewers crystal-clear imaging with built-in Wi-Fi, 1080p resolution and a contemporary design.

Lulu Hypermarkets can be found at Dana Mall, Hidd, Ramli Mall and East Riffa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Just In Mix tapes are really making a comeback these days. Make your own playlist for your significant other featuring some of these new artists.

Banks London EP

MN BUMO ALTHE

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RATING:

WHAT’S THE STORY? Hailing from Los

TH

Angeles, Jillian Banks produces sombre electro-pop, which while being catchy and enjoyable contains a myriad of interesting themes. Pop music is often devoid of real meaning, but on her London EP, Banks deals with the themes of abuse.

Her deep thoughts combined with excellent melodic hooks keep the listener engaged throughout the album. It’s hard to demonstrate a variety of themes on an EP, but Banks shows incredible skill in song writing.

WORTH A LISTEN?

It seems as if Banks is more in tune with the gritty London sound rather than her sunny Californian homeland. The production from Britain’s Jamie Woon and London Grammar strengthens this notion.

What really carries this record is Banks’ wonderful vocal work from her gloomy whispering on the first track, Waiting Game, to her cynical swooning on. The production is haunting and intimate, which comes across as an extremely personal endeavour for Banks.

As soon as the album begins, we’re greeted by ethereal melodies; a sombre piano track is soon introduced with the main vocal line.

Verdict: It isn’t easy to make an impact with an EP, but Banks manages to banish the doubt.

TOP TRACKS: This Is What It Feels Like and Change George Ezra

Did You Hear the Rain?

Bristol singer-songwriter George Ezra’s warming country-tinged folk rock sounds as if it should be coming from someone 50 years older. The record showcases his excellent vocal range as well as his technical instrumental skills. The BBC Sound of 2014 nominee is raw and clearly his own person — that in itself makes him worth watching.

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Wolf Alice

Blush EP London’s Wolf Alice showcases some of the best elements of alternative rock with a sound not too distant from the ‘90s Seattle grunge.

This is exactly what is needed from an EP — something that shows just what this band is capable of.

MØ

Bikini Daze Danish artist Karen Marie Ørsted, shortened to MØ, produces upbeat and captivating electro-pop beats, with contrasting slow and dramatic vocal melodies.

Bikini Daze is an excellent demonstration of what the Scandinavian has to offer.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

downtimecomputergames

Keep an Eye on It TH GAME E M ON TH

In 2013, PS4 sold more than a million consoles in a day. We take a look at the most anticipated games that will demonstrate the best that the PS4 has to offer.

Daylight

OF

Darkness is an impending theme this year. Daylight introduces gamers to a procedurally generated world that will change each and every time you play it. The survival horror videogame lets you navigate your way out with only the light of a cell phone.

Thief

Basement Crawl RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Basement Crawl is a strategic action game featuring creepy characters, challenging environments and maze-based competitive multiplayer. In the game, players fight in grid-based arenas.

Everyone races to set traps and explosives in order to hinder or defeat their enemies.

Basement Crawl brings together retro gameplay, modern mechanics and grind house horror to create a completely addictive experience.

The more you steal, the better — at least that’s what this stealth game proves. Thief is full of contrasts and that’s not just on the surface. Next-gen Thief looks cerebral and has a unique voice; the developer’s PlayStation debut is unquestionably exciting.

THE Graphics:

The macabre art style and the eight-player online death matches have players totally intrigued. While the makers are inspired by the retro classics, the game is up to date with the competition of present days.

Basement Crawl will be a 2.5D game with dynamic cameras. Think of well-balanced, old-school fighting games. The only time luck plays a part in this game is when your little sibling or a beginner is mashing away on the buttons and manages to win.

For everyone else, this game has everything to do with skill — nothing is left to chance!

GAMEPLAY: Basement Crawl focuses heavily on skill. It’s all about reflexes

and strategy. The game features four classes, each utilising a variety of unique bombs and power-ups, allowing players to mix and match strategy for each class.

Speed and planning play a great role in the game; they are also the only way to become the champion.

VERDICT: This is a great game to destroy your friends — or to be destroyed by them.

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inFAMOUS: Second Son A PlayStation 4 exclusive, this game brings you an action adventure game. Surrounded by a society that fears them, superhumans are ruthlessly hunted down and caged. Step into a locked-down Seattle and fight back against the oppressive authorities.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

websites

ITENTH BSMO WETHE

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Svbtle.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Svbtle is the essence of blogging; a network of great people mixed with an extremely simple writing, reading and sharing platform.

The website’s founding team tries to get out of the way and focus on the ideas, the people and the writing.

This is a new kind of online magazine that is centred on thoughts and stories.

THE GOOD: We have mixed opinions about the layout of this website.

While some might consider it very clean and (drumroll please) completely ad-free, Svbtle is incredibly text-heavy. For those who are comfortable with a screen devoid of images, this website is perfect.

However, for those of us who are visual learners, Svbtle might be lacking a visual appeal. A Catch-22 situation is the invite-only membership of the website.

THE BAD:

As great as the concept is, Svbtle is somewhat deceptive.

What initially looks like a fantastic platform for the whole world to benefit from is nothing more than a closed group on Facebook. The platform, albeit ‘open’, is exclusively made accessible to an elite group of vetted bloggers.

VERDICT: If you feel like you could use some thought-provoking articles, read their posts.

Dailydot.com Dailydot.com is considered the Internet’s community newspaper.

Reporting the most important and relevant topics from within, the site applies tried-and-true principles drawn from community journalism to the growing cultures of the Internet.

Theconnectivist.com The Connectivist is an online magazine created in partnership with the National Cable & Telecommunications Association. The dots between innovation, Web culture and TV are connected with bold, entertaining content.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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iLove Apps Take a look at some of the best apps for couples who prefer to stay more connected — or perhaps need help planning dates!

T

M APPS HE

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ON TH Movies by Flixster The most downloaded movie app available, and now with a new update, Movies allows you to find the best films out in theatres. The app lets you know when and where the screenings are and includes reviews and ratings from Rotten Tomatoes.

LateRooms.com (Android, IOS) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Often hotel rooms can be so painfully expensive and it’s hard to find the perfect place to stay. But with LateRooms.com’s new hotel booking app, you can not only search and compare thousands of hotels, you can do it from the comfort of your smartphone or tablet!

THE GOOD: The main strength of this app is the sheer amount of choice available in

terms of hotels. Offering users 65,000 hotels to compare and choose from, there’s sure to be something to suit even the most specific tastes.

Users can read reviews and check prices to get a better idea of what it’s actually like staying at the hotel. You can get up to 50 per cent off the rates with the site. Being able to do all this quickly and efficiently from an app is always a bonus!

THE BAD:

Only one issue really springs to mind. The app is designed to work best with the iPhone 5, so users on other devices may find it less comfortable. It is possible that there may be patches available in the near future to iron out any creases the app may contain. There is also a lack of filter options, which makes it difficult when picking a hotel. The lack of filtering, including star rating and price fields, makes the browser version a better option.

VERDICT: This is a great way for budding travellers to sort out their journeys.

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Groupon With no shortage of great deals on almost anything, from restaurants to getaways, Groupon can now be accessed from your portable device. It lets you pay for deals directly on the app, making it easier than ever.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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movies

Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom RATING: DIRECTED BY: Justin Chadwick STARRING: Idris Elba, Naomie Harris

THE PLOT:

The incredible story of one of the most influential politicians to date comes to the big screen. A young Nelson Mandela (Idris Elba) joins the African National Congress to fight the injustice of apartheid in South Africa and is sent to prison, beginning one of the most important sagas in South African history.

WORTH WATCHING? Attempting to span the life of one of history’s most notable freedom fighters is an extremely monumental task. At some points the movie doesn’t feel as if it delves deep enough into the characters, aside from Mandela himself.

VERDICT: There are glimpses of immense credibility throughout, yet it doesn’t fully hold itself.

12 Years a Slave Steve McQueen’s third film tackles the grim subject of slavery. It speaks of the injustice with horror and powerful historical accuracy, making the movie a lesson for all. Chiwetel Ejiofor delivers a spectacular performance. Among the films spew of awards, it won a Golden Globe for best motion picture.

The Railway Man Based on a book with the same name, the source material provided for this movie gives a lot to play with. Sadly this tale of war and imprisonment is dealt with in a clumsy manner. The biopic documentary is also not very visually exciting where Colin Firth looks suitably unenthusiastic.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Valentine Special 2014 Tarotscope Raphael

Virgo – The Six of Cups An outing with friends is going to see you introduced to someone that you initially don’t even find attractive but as the evening goes on and you get the chance to engage with each other a mutual bond will be established. Whether you can find the confidence to take it forward is going to be down to whether you are ready to embark on a new relationship because, for a few of you, it might be a little early following a rather difficult break up.

Libra – The Three of Swords Love is going to find you in the workplace this Valentine’s Day and the object of your interest is someone that you have felt drawn towards for quite a long time.

You may even have attempted to approach the person in question without success in the past but a lot of that is down to the fact that you’ve gone about the whole thing in the wrong way. Rather than trying to be brash and overconfident, let your softer, more genuine side emerge.

Aries – The King of Swords Love is in the air this month and for those of you looking for a new relationship, it could come in the form of a strong-minded, flame-haired woman or a shy but attractive man. Either way, it is going to prove a very exciting time for your sign and Valentine’s Day is likely to be a really rewarding day, in particular, although the whole of the month is certainly going to be filled with excitement. Where it goes from here is anybody’s guess but I’d be pretty confident of winning.

Scorpio – The Four of Wands Those of you who have found yourselves drifting along in a relationship might need to spark something new into the whole affair because it is certainly getting a little stale. Part of the problem is down to your career taking up all of your time at the moment and that is causing a lot of resentment from your partner. To make amends you need to take the initiative and do something really special.

Taurus – The Emperor Valentine’s Day is certainly a way of endorsing your love for someone but as a romantic sign you have no problem displaying your affections every day of the year. In a relationship things have been moving along at pace and there could be a surprise in store for you when it comes to a loved one’s admission. It will catch you off guard and you may need a little time alone to clear your head and put things back into perspective.

Sagittarius – The Nine of Swords Those of you looking to have a fun Valentine’s Day will be surprised to learn that a face from the past is set to return and look to make a go of something that ended rather unexpectedly first time around. Whilst this might seem like a good idea to start with, you need to remember why you both split up and perhaps lay down a few ground rules if you are planning on trying again. Maybe it wasn’t just the right time for any long-term potential.

Gemini – The Nine of Cups You have managed to negotiate a difficult period in your life and are now basking in the light at the end of the tunnel as you emerge to meet a wonderfully positive Valentine’s Day. A lot about the way you feel is connected to a new love in your life and for the first time you feel as though you could have met someone who can appreciate the emotional depth of your personality. This gives you the confidence that you need to tackle any doubts you have been wrestling.

Capricorn – The Chariot A new romance waits on the horizon for some of you but it might not be initially that obvious to see! Those of you who have spotted someone in the gym or supermarket may be surprised to receive an invitation to dinner from this person and it could be a pretty whirlwind experience that unfolds with pace. If anything you should try to slow matters down because moving this quickly makes your more cautious personality a little uneasy.

Cancer – The Seven of Pentacles This Valentine’s Day a few of you are going on a date in a situation that is perhaps a little alien to your personality but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing since you have a great chance to try something new in your life. If it involves a blind date or meeting someone for the first time then many of you are likely to be pleasantly surprised by the outcome and the evening is going to turn out a lot better than you had envisaged.

Leo – The Five of Wands Someone has a crush on you and this month they are going to use Valentine’s Day as the opportunity to express their feelings. It doesn’t mean he or she will come out openly and demonstrate their love but they will try to make their feelings known in a subtle fashion. It’s going to be up to you to figure out who it might be but the general impression is it shouldn’t take too much to work it out.

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Aquarius – The Star The romantic side of your life might be feeling a little stale right now but that could all change around the 14th when your attendance to a last-minute society event leads to you meeting someone who could end up being very special in your life. Of course the journey from first-time meeting to full on partner is a different one for each of us and you are not known as one of the more romantic signs of the Zodiac, but it could be this time around it just might be special.

Pisces – The Nine of Pentacles Funny things can happen when it comes to affairs of the heart and no one knows that better than dreamy Pisceans. If there is a romantic rush to be had then your sign is the one to have it, no question! This month you might find that a person you have had a crush on for some time now is suddenly showing similar motivations towards you and the chance could be at hand to really push for a first date.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Lynne Alwazzan Dinner Party Lynne Alwazzan hosted a dinner party at her residence last month for her friends and their children who were visiting from abroad for the holidays

Ingrid & Lynne

Jo & Ahmed Karime family

Zeenat, Samira, Sabi, Liliane & Shandra

Rasha, Dana & Reem

Lynne & friends

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & Mala

86 February 2014

Sarah, Moya & Andrea

Lynne, Renuka & friends

Isa, Jenny & Leah

Renuka, Menon, Dinesh, Chandni, Lynne & Nainika

Ebrahim, Ulku & Lynne

Alex, George & Gigi

Paul, Mikala & Andrea

Linda, Jenny, Ingrid & Carol

Yusef, Tariq & Lynne

Mashari & Adel

Shaker & Hussain

Hannah & James

David & Rose

Genny, Hussain, Audrey & Carolina

Talal & Khalid

www.bahrainthismonth.com

VIVA 4G LTE Launch VIVA Bahrain launched its much anticipated 4G LTE service. The company’s state-of-the-art 4G network boasts speeds of up to 100 Mbps with the widest coverage across Bahrain, offering customers an exceptional experience and enabling them to enjoy real-time video, media streaming and downloading. The event was held at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa's Al Ghazal Ballroom

BLIPP THIS BYSTANDER TO: Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, CEO

LISTEN TO ULAIYAN AL WETAID ADDRESS GUESTS AND THE MEDIA AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Nazar, Abdulaziz, Andrew Hanna & Nezar

WATCH EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH BAHRAIN THIS MONTH

Sean Smith, Hisham M. Badnoui & Taral Parekh

Ulaiyan Al Wetaid & Saud Al Tami

Ulaiyan Al Wetaid with VIVA management

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Khalid

EXPLORE VIVA BAHRAIN

Karla & Jamal

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GREAT Knowledge Event As part of the GREAT British Week, the Knowledge Event was held at the InterContinental Regency. The event organised by the British Council and sponsored by Brunel & Alia Universities, gave Bahraini students an idea of the broad range of courses avaibale at British Universities

George with Majid Al Zayani

George & Martin

Litty, Subahsini, Adel & Ebtisam

Chandran, Saleh, Hessa & Hussain

88 Febr uary 2014

Fahad & Yara

Suad, Azza & Martin

Dr Tillal & Dr Charles

Zahir & Prof Amir

Kelly

Prof Anne

Milushka & Elvin

Dr Layla & Dr Najma

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Leveraging Cultural Differences & Strategic Polarities Seminar Under the patronage of HE Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, a seminar was held at the Awal Ballroom, Gulf Hotel on 'Leveraging Cultural Differences & Strategic Polarities'. The speaker at the event held last month was Dr Michael A. Buchmann

Ali & Sayed

Abdulrahman, Tariq & Salah

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HE Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan & Samiya

Rajesh & Abhilash

Dr Michael A. Buchmann

Hasan & Abdulla

Kareema & Layla

Mohammed Buzizi & Dr Michael A. Buchmann

Ahmed & Hussain

Rajesh & Srinivas

Ameera

Salah

Abdul Haleem

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Mehdi Hasan Dinner Party Mehdi Hasan, Counselor and Head of Chancery, Bangladesh Embassy in Bahrain & Sajida Hasan hosted a dinner party for a number of friends at their residence in Tubli last month

Mehdi & Sajida

Elena & Sajida

Igor, Mehdi & Mona

Mathew & Bridget

Fariel, Sajida, Elena, Bridget, Svetlana, Mona, Anne, Andrea, Mathew, Geg, Igor, Mehdi, George, Charlie & Alex

90 February 2014

Sajida & Fariel

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Ingrid Christmas Party Ingrid & Younis hosted a Christmas lunch for a number of their friends at their residence in Safriya last month

Abdulrahman, Lynne, Ingrid, Younis, Liliane & Souheil

Urvashi, Sharon & Alison

Mohamed, Abdulla, Ibrahim, Fahmi & Sana

Mohammed & Ali

Ingrid, Dr Rana, Sharon & Renuka

Love Treat at Cafe Italia Celebrate the month of love at Cafe Italia Adliya with the Italian romance and the selections of best Aphrodisiac fine cuisines and beverages. Book now and use the code "Love Treat" to get 10% discount of total bill for a couple*. *terms and condition apply

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Smoking & non smoking area available

David

Nafeeza, Ingrid & Zoeb

Raj & hussain

Juliana & Olivier

CAFÉ ITALIA PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT • Seef Mall : 17582823 • Adliya : 17744744 • City Centre : 17178595 facebook.com/CafeItaliaAdliya @cafeitaliaBH www.alialsharif.com

February 2014 91

Sairafi Festive Party Debbie & Jaffar Al Sairafi hosted a party for a number of friends to celebrate the festive season at their residence in Mahooz

Rowena, Debbie, Jaffar & Omran

Mashari, Sameera, Bader, Adel & Fawaz

Kiersten, Rawan, Mishmish, Nada, Kamel & Nawar

92 February 2014

Antonia, Andrea & Shaker

Krzysztof, Debbie & Christina

Nadia & Yasmine

Jalil, Jaffar & Essam

Mariam, Yasmine & Alex

Jaap & Wendy

Liza

Neville & Dr Nonie

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Pakistan Urdu School Bahrain Day Celebrations The students & staff members of the Pakistan Urdu School held a special fun fair to mark the school's Bahrain Day celebrations. The event was held at the school in Isa Town last month

Sana, Maheen & Fayha

Farzal Rasool, Mr Najam, Dr Farooq, Mr Irfan & Shahnaz

Ad_125x191mm.pdf 1 12/18/13 4:56 PM Nawal, Sameera, Arjumand, Farhand & Tayyaba

Sharjeel, Salman & Ebrahim

Adila, Haika & Hajra

Shahnaz, Sadia, Dr Farkhanda, Razia, Farzan & Muntaz

Zahra, Parveen, Aisha & Summiya

Safa & Maheen

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M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

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Sofitel New Year's Eve Party The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa held a ‘Glamour Night’ New Year's Eve Party to bring in 2014.

The black and red-themed show paid tribute to the great American entertainers from the past to the present and included an international DJ from Orlando, Florida, DJ Gil Lugo

Charbel & Adrian with Pamela, Denise & Grau

HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qadir, Palestinian Ambassador, Rabab Al Afifi & Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Evelyn & Marina

94 February 2014

Jason & Luca

Ghazali, Mobeena, Nina & Salam

Julie & Paul

Suzan & Bu Hamad

Saniya

Maria & Alex

Elena & Alex

Jpy & Paul

Noor & Fuad

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Bahraini-French Business Club Lunch The Bahraini- French Business Club (CAFB) hosted a luncheon for members and guests at Al Fanar, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa last month

Herve & Didier

Waleed Kanoo & Raymond

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Bahraini-French Business Club members

Sylvie & John

Laurent

Laurence & Christophe

Francoise

Wendy

Larry Hatheway

Celine

Basim

Gisele

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Andreas & Maria's Wedding Reception Chris & Nayia Poullaides hosted a wedding reception followed by dinner to celebrate the marriage of their son Andreas with Maria, daughter of George & Kaiti Ioannides. The event was held at the Al Ghazal Ballroom, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa. The event was attended by HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, Industry & Commerce Minister & VIPs

Nayia & Chris

HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho'ala, HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, Chris, Harris & Maria

Marios, Kalipso, Catherine, Vasso & Andrew

Maria, Andreas, Nayia & Mohammed

96 February 2014

Andreas, Nayia, Chris & Maria

Hassan Al A'ali & HE Sadiq Shehabi

Angela, Henny, Rashida & Seham

Mohandas, HE Dr Hassan Fakhro & Mohamed

George, Kaiti, Andreas, Maria, Nayia & Chris

Rula, Nijad, Khalid & Jameela

Abdulla, Athena & Thahira

Dheya & Sadiq

Ismail, Abdul Jalil & Tony

Mazen & Amal

Abdulla & Shareefa

Sherry & Abdulrahman

Abdulkareem & Fatima

Hussain & Rashida

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motoringthismonth

MINI Black Knight Paceman

Black Night Editions The brand more known for its funky, fun-loving and colourful nature explores its dark side with this sinister looking new special edition!

This new edition (which has nothing to do with the Batman, as far as we can tell) pushes the boundaries for the brand once again, presenting a darker aspect of its personality with this matte-black colour scheme.

The MINI Black Knight Edition is available for the Middle East’s best-selling MINI Countryman and the MINI Paceman models. Boasting textured, matte paintwork, this exclusive new edition is set to steal the limelight like a nefarious thief in the night!

Inside the cockpit of the MINI Black Knight Edition, music lovers can experience audio technology like never before thanks to the Harman Kardon HiFi system, which features ten speakers that are optimally positioned around the vehicle for flawless sound.

The MINI keyless entry feature allows drivers to lock and unlock the vehicle without the need of physically pressing buttons on the key.

Furthermore advanced technologies allow usability of the vehicle without a key in the ignition through the use of a dedicated ‘Start/Stop’ button. This provides for an increased level of convenience when using the MINI. The MINI Black Knight Edition doesn’t stop there: MINI fans can also take advantage of optional white or red sport stripes, blackened adaptive headlights and light alloy wheels with Twin Also this month

98 x Wheels - 99 x Showcase

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Spoke Black Burnished or Cross Spoke Crusher Clack finishes depending on the model selected.

“During 2013 MINI experienced 15 per cent growth across the region,” commented Sarah Junghardt, manager MINI of BMW Group Middle East. “We are therefore very excited to add this new edition to our portfolio and we are confident that it will be popular with our Middle East customers who tend to have a preference towards exclusivity.”

The MINI Countryman and MINI Paceman Black Knight Editions are available in limited numbers in both John Cooper Works and Cooper S variants across the MINI Importers the GCC. The John Cooper Works editions boast Twin-scroll Turbocharger engines with an output of 218hp (160kW) at 6,100 rpm of power. Also on board, you’ll find the Sport Button and over-boost function, which add an extra thrust.

The latter briefly raises the traction power by 20 units to give a total of 300Nm. Pressing the Sport Button will produce a distinctly more spontaneous response from the steering and the accelerator pedal reacts even faster to pressure; resulting in the tone of the twin-pipe exhaust changing to an even sportier character.

The Countryman is the first MINI John Cooper Works model with ALL4 all-wheel drive, so the world becomes your rally track. The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is also the largest and most powerful model in the family. Impressive traction and sporty handling mean you can take the road, the off-road and everywhere in between. E Call 17 750-750.

Speed Thrills The BIC continues to be the centre of all motoring action this month. Take your own car or motorbike out onto the circuit’s drag strip to experience some high octane thrill. The Drag and Drift nights are on February 3, 10 and 17 and feature on-the-track action from 6pm until 10pm.

On February 7, the Circuit Racing Club organises 2,000cc and the national sprint challenges. Return on the next day for an exhilarating round of 4x4 action.

Climb slopes, navigate obstacles and conquer BIC’s world-class 5.3-kilometre offroad course, either as the passenger or driver of a Land Rover LR4.

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A Patrol That Dominates Tony Sidgwick Big, luxurious, comfortable, packed with fantastic technology, this SUV absolutely dominates offroad. The new Nissan Patrol ticks an awful lot of boxes!

Model Nissan Patrol Model year 2014 Engine 5.6-litre V8 engine Displacement 5,552cc Horsepower 317 hp Torque 527 Nm Transmission Five-speed automatic Acceleration 8.2 seconds Top speed 200 km/h

98 February 2014

The 2014 Nissan Patrol is really just last year’s model with a few upgrades, most notable being a slightly redesigned front end with LED headlights instead of the previous model’s HID Xenon lights. Better features on the base-spec XE version, such as optional automatic transmission, and optional back-up collision intervention are also available.

However, minimal change is no bad thing, as we’re big fans of the current generation, the first major redesign of the Patrol since 1997. It represents a major salvo at the Toyota Land Cruiser, with an aim to outperform it in every significant way, being slightly larger, slightly more powerful, and with a slightly longer list of features. But how does this all translate to the actual experience of being in the Patrol?

Well, the first thing that strikes you as you climb into it is the luxurious, premium feel to the interior. Leather seats, leather padded surfaces, wood trim, air-conditioned seats, rear DVD screens, a 13-speaker Bose sound system, and vast amounts of space! And this isn’t even the top-spec model — it’s the mid-spec SE variant, although it did have the Platinum package which adds a lot of bling.

The SE model comes with Nissan’s 5.6-litre V8, with a power output of 317hp and 527Nm of torque, as compared to the uprated V8 in the top-spec LE model, with 400hp, and 560Nm of torque. And the SE comes with the five-speed automatic transmission, instead of the LE’s more efficient seven-speed.

At 317hp, the Patrol SE isn’t going to win any races, but that’s not to say it feels slow at all. For such a big vehicle, the Patrol really pulls, but off-road is where this engine really shines and the torque comes into play.

There are four surface settings for the all-wheel-drive transmission — road, rock, snow and sand. These are supported by three gear settings, auto, four-high and four-low, and a differential lock. My favourite spot for testing SUVs, on an uneven rocky incline, was made even more tricky given it had been raining and the surface was especially muddy and slippery. I engaged rock, four-low and the differential lock to stop the wheels from spinning, and aimed up the hill. I can

honestly say that the only other vehicle that made it look so easy was a Range Rover Vogue I tested a few years back!

The Patrol gripped and climbed with minimal fuss, and despite the axle-bending surface, there was very little lurching in the cabin. And this was without the Hydraulic Body Motion Control as featured in the top-spec models.

The approach and departure angles are very good, and tricky spots are made easier by the collision warning system that lets you know if you’re about to scrape your bumper on an incline.

The exterior cameras help you navigate through particularly narrow spots, and are very useful when parking! A nice touch is when the exterior cameras automatically pop up on the screen when the sensors can tell you’re in a tight spot.

And how does it do on sand? This is where torque really comes into play, and the good news is that there is more than enough, even on the 527Nm-rated engine. It works extremely well with the sand setting on the variable four-wheel-drive system. When you hit the deep stuff and the revs start to drop, the Patrol just hunkers down and steams through, sending the power to the right wheels to avoid digging in and getting stuck.

There was very little we didn’t throw at the Patrol, and it just took it all in its stride, doing exactly what a vehicle like this should do — making it all look easy! Comfortable, luxurious, and extremely capable off-road, the Patrol is an absolute success in our opinion.

Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons is the exclusive distributor for Nissan in the Kingdom.

E Call 17 732-732.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AL HADDAD MOTORS

Move Up to E-Class With more luxury, more efficiency, and more lifesaving technology, the E-Class further extends its class-leading position!

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Mercedes-Benz has revised the E-Class more comprehensively than ever before, making the latest technical advances with a sharpened design and elegantly sporty look. These are combined with significantly enhanced comfort, luxury appointments, efficiency and driving pleasure.

“With the new E-Class we have set clear markers in the areas of safety, design and efficiency,” says Graeme Newport, general manager of Mercedes-Benz distributor Al Haddad Motors.

“This delivers a host of technical innovations and is without doubt the best E-Class ever, and is reflected in its design and lovingly revised interior. As a result it brings a breath of fresh air to the luxury class. The ‘E’ therefore continues to maintain its leading position in this demanding segment.”

The E-Class features a new front-end design as well as new proportions through intelligent changes. When it came to the modifications, the designers followed the new Mercedes design idiom and reinterpreted the classical design values of the brand using the existing basis. The result is a superior and refined, sporty appearance.

The interior has been reworked and harmonised with the expressive exterior. High-quality materials and refined, subdivided areas with precise joints and sharp curves underscore the high-quality overall impression of the generous interior.

What started with Pre-Safe and continued with Distronic Plus has resulted in a new dimension of motoring where comfort and safety are merged into one. Mercedes-Benz refers to this as ‘intelligent drive’. In the E-Class a whole host of new or optimised systems from the new S-Class celebrate their world premiere, making motoring more comfortable and safer.

They include systems which can help prevent accidents with vehicles or pedestrians, such as active Lane Keeping Assist.

This helps to prevent accidents with oncoming traffic, or to diminish anti-glare from continuous high-beam headlamps.

Along with the stereo multi-purpose camera, Mercedes-Benz has introduced enhanced versions of the multistage radar sensor system. As standard, new models are available with Collision Prevention Assist, a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive brake assist systems that helps to significantly reduce the risk of a rear-end collision.

Additionally, forming part of the standard equipment is Attention Assist, which is now able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range. It also informs the driver about his level of fatigue and the amount of driving time which has elapsed since the last break.

Mercedes-Benz offers the Command Online multimedia system for the E-Class with 17.8cm high-resolution colour display, Internet connection, hard-disc navigation and emergency call feature. The system enables drivers to surf the web or call up a Mercedes-Benz app, while the car is stationary. The particularly fast page loading and simple operation make it suitable for use while driving.

Integrated apps include Google, a weather forecast and the facility for downloading a route which has previously been configured on a PC using Google Maps and transmitted to the car. In addition, apps for Google Streetview and Google Panoramio are also available. E Call 17 785-454.

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EBRAHIM K. KANOO

Amazing 4x4 Offers There’s never been a better time than now to get your hands on one of Toyota’s impressive line-up of SUVs, with some incredible bargains to be had.

Toyota and Lexus dealership E.K. Kanoo has launched a generous promotional campaign on the Toyota range of off-roaders.

“We are offering competitive prices on the new 2014 Toyota 4x4 models, including the FJ Cruiser, the Prado, the much-loved Land Cruiser and the Fortuner,” says Ayman Shehadeh, marketing manager at Ebrahim K. Kanoo. “Toyota’s SUV range combines quality, rugged luxury and ultimate comfort. We invite customers to avail this unique offer while it lasts, until February 27, 2014.”

The Fortuner At the most affordable end of the range, the robust and capable Toyota Fortuner equipped with the 2.7-litre, fourcylinder engine is available now at BD9,600. This mid-size 4x4 gives you the space and practicality of an SUV for fantastic value, making it a highly attractive option.

The FJ Cruiser Through this offer, the eye-catching retro-styled FJ Cruiser is now offered atjust BD12,900. The FJ Cruiser is powered by a 4.0-litre V6 with an output of 260hp and 367Nm of torque. It’s unique styling with rear-hinged rear doors and high levels of off-road capability make it a firm favourite amongst 4WD enthusiasts.

The Prado If you want luxury as well as off-road capability, then the Prado could be just what you’re looking for.

The recently launched 2014 Prado is available in two engines: the2.7-litre, four-cylinder engine; and the more powerful 4.0litre, V6. The four-cylinder model is on offer for BD12,500, and the V6 is available for just BD15,600.

100 February 2014

The Land Cruiser The undisputed king of the Toyota range, the mighty Land Cruiser is one of the most popular SUVs in the region, and for good reason.

Few other cars combine luxury and off-road performance at such high levels as this highly versatile and capable 4x4.

The Land Cruiser G Grade with the4.0-litre V6 is offered at BD14,500, whereas the Land Cruiser GX Grade with the same engine is available for BD16,000.

For more information visit, or to arrange a test drive, the Toyota showroom in Sitra or visit www.facebook.com/Toyotabahrain.

E Call 17 730-730 or visit www.toyota.com.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

EURO MOTORS

Elegant Mover Consistently pushing boundaries, BMW moves into a whole new segment with the first four-door coupé in the brand’s history.

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The presentation of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé sees BMW venturing into a new vehicle segment once again. The third model in the BMW 6 Series line-up follows in the tyre tracks of the convertible and coupé, and is the first four-door Coupe in the history of the brand. The athletic elegance of the car’s design makes it a particularly handsome addition to the range.

Powerful engines and sophisticated chassis technology combine to produce an impressively dynamic driving experience, and the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé also makes its mark with exclusive equipment features and a level of practicality unmatched by its premium four-door coupé rivals.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé integrates the stand-out looks and dynamics of a Coupe into a fresh new model with a fascinating character all of its own. The hallmark proportions of a BMW are reproduced in an unusually low-slung, sporty package given the car’s four-door construction. And they are defined by a fresh interpretation of the three-box design: a sweeping, powerfully contoured bonnet, a long wheelbase – giving the car an elegantly stretched appearance – and a setback passenger compartment.

The design of the interior creates a harmonious link between the front seats and the rear, and embodies the perfect combination of elegance and dynamics. The driver-focused cockpit, front passenger area and generously sized rear compartment combine joy with travel comfort amid a stylish and luxurious ambience. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé comes with 4+1 seats, while a 113-millimetre longer wheelbase than the BMW 6 Series Coupe allows it to offer a noticeable increase in legroom for the rear passengers.

The TwinPower Turbo engines available for the 6 Series Gran Coupé deliver both sportiness and efficiency. The six-cylinder

in-line petrol engine in the BMW 640i Gran Coupé develops 320hp, while the icing on the cake of the model range will be provided by the 650i Gran Coupé and its 450hp V8 powerplant.

All the engine variants work in tandem with an eight-speed sports automatic transmission, while measures such as the Auto Start-Stop function and ECO PRO mode – activated using the Driving Experience Control switch – help to reduce fuel consumption.The 650i Gran Coupe will also be available with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive.

The chassis technology built into the 6 Series Gran Coupe includes a double-wishbone front axle, an integral rear axle, Electric Power Steering and a high-performance braking system. Plus, the Servotronic function and Dynamic Damper Control also come as standard. Among the items on the options list are Integral Active Steering and the Adaptive Drive system.

The high-quality and extensive range of standard equipment includes electrically adjustable leather seats, two-zone automatic climate control, xenon headlights, 18-inch light-alloy wheels, the Radio Professional with Hi-Fi loudspeaker system, and automatically dimming exterior and rear-view mirrors.

The selection of exclusive options, meanwhile, allows customers to add their own individual touch. Highlights of the optional equipment range include adaptive LED headlights and the Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System. Added to which, a bespoke M Sport package and options from BMW Individual developed exclusively for the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be offered from the launch. E Call 17 750-750.

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ALMOAYYED MOTORS

For a Better Lifestyle The comfort, space and safety of an SUV combined with the affordability and driving dynamics of a car — all in one handsome package!

102 February 2014

The Ford Escape stands apart in its class; although a crossover, it still boasts the versatility and ruggedness that allows it to stand alongside Ford’s traditional line-up of SUVs. And now it’s more accessible than ever, with a fantastic deal on offer from Almoayyed Motors, the exclusive dealer of Ford and Lincoln vehicles in Bahrain. This latest campaign allows car enthusiasts to experience Ford’s unique innovations and power at some of the most competitive prices that have ever been offered on the vehicle.

“Ford’s brand is synonymous with technology, cutting-edge design and power,” says Sandeep Mathur, general manager at Almoayyed Motors. “The Escape is the ideal example of these unique platforms that will upgrade your life. This includes MyFord Sync that connects you to your phone and media through voice commands and menus accessible from your steering wheel or touch screen. With a versatile number of capabilities, the Escape allows you to take on any adventures in a truly sophisticated way.”

The 2.5-litre iVCTI-4 engine delivers 168hp and enables drivers to manually control the gear with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission for a more hands-on experience. All this can begin with a keyless and push button start system that swiftly powers up your engine.

It is also equipped with enhanced safety features, including Ford’s exclusive AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control. This stabilises driving on uneven roads by keeping your wheels firmly planted on the road, and by combining reduced engine power with selective wheel braking. The Blind Spot Information System displays alerts when vehicles enter a blind spot, thus keeping you safe at all times.

Exploring further the technological advancements, the vehicle comes with an Active Park Assist, allowing you to parallel park without stress. With the press of a button and by only controlling the gas and brake pedals, the car will find an available parking spot and steer into it for you.

The Escape also comes with a cargo capability that allows you to carry almost anything you want; simply fold your seats or stow things in the largely accommodating trunk. Moreover, the unique Liftgate allows quick and easy access to your cargo with a gentle kick action.

With a starting price of just BD7,850 you can now experience the Escape’s do-it-all attitude and outstanding fuel economy. To experience the powers of Ford’s sedans and SUVs visit Almoayyed Motors in Sitra to book a test drive today.

E Call 17 737-373.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

4G

The best LTE is now even better Unlimited Calls | Unlimited Data | Biggest Network Coverage

Two Months Free**

batelco.com

Stay connected across Bahrain on the fastest and most reliable network with the biggest 4G LTE coverage. Subscribe to one of our Super Smart packages below and get the latest smartphone from your nearest Batelco shop today.

Package name

Monthly rental

Free minutes (Batelco to Batelco***)

Data usage (8GB)

Free minutes (Batelco to others)

Smartphone

Super Smart 20

BD20

Unlimited

Unlimited *

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Free*

Super Smart 25

BD25

Unlimited

Unlimited *

60 min

Free*

Super Smart 30

BD30

Unlimited

Unlimited *

120 min

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***Unlimited calls are to Batelco fixed and mobile lines. **Limited offer. 2 months free is only for the 4G LTE service *Terms & Conditions apply

reporttelecom

BATELCO

Connected on the Go We expect to stay connected to the online world at coffee shops, airports and malls. This new service makes sure your tech-savvy lifestyle can be maintained on the road too.

106 February 2014

Let’s face it, the only thing more important than passports for travellers on-the-go is an Internet connection. You can take pictures and share them instantly, keep in touch with your friends and do some research on the hotspots around town.

What was once a luxury for those who could afford the extra bill is now a necessity that is within everyone’s reach.

Two industry leaders join hands to offer tourists in the Kingdom an amazing, and essential, online experience. A first in Bahrain and the region, Batelco now offers 4G LTE Wi-Fi in Arabian Taxis all over the island. This service is a new highspeed connection for passengers travelling in the yellow cabs (Radio Taxi).

The system exclusively turns 3G and 4G mobile connectivity into a Wi-Fi hotspot for all passengers. Now tourists can keep connected, check out destinations to visit and stay in touch with their loved ones while on the road.

The telecom operator has signed a partnership deal with the transport group as part of their continuous efforts to offer customer satisfaction. Passengers arriving at Bahrain International Airport, or just taking a taxi at a mall and other locations, will now be able to enjoy Batelco’s free mobile broadband on board during their journeys.

“This is a completely new idea for residents and visitors in Bahrain and delivered by Batelco in response to the demand for everyone to be in touch 24/7, regardless of location. We anticipate that it will prove to be very popular. Customers can book a cab by calling Arabian Taxi’s call centre to enjoy the service,” says Batelco general manager consumer division Muna Al Hashemi.

To use the service, connect to the network using your laptops, smartphones, tablets or any other device and simply ask the driver for the password. This service will enhance the evolving lifestyle of people who need high-speed connections on the go.

“We are very pleased to cooperate with Batelco through this agreement, which is dynamic and efficiently designed to provide outstanding experiences to all,” says Eyad Abdullah Fakhri, acting general manager of Arabian Taxi Company. )The service will be provided in various regions and will contribute to attract both residents and visitors, reflecting the quality of our services. It also represents our ability to meet the desires and aspirations of all our clients in the best ways and it means using the latest in cutting-edge technology.”

E Call 17 881-881.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

VIVA BAHRAIN

Stronger, Faster Connections

VIVA senior management team at the launch of 4G LTE services

The latest incarnation of Internet technology, 4G LTE (long term evolution) is set to redefine the world as we know it.

A gateway to new opportunities that can simplify our lives, VIVA’s latest broadband experience keeps us better connected. The allnew 4G is set to change the way people use their smartphones, tablets and mobile Wi-Fi, both for work and for pleasure.

While 1G and 2G networks mostly handled voice and simple digital data, 3G marked the beginning of mobile Internet access. Today, 4G is a massive evolutionary leap. Speed is the essence of this ground-breaking technology, which can be up to five times faster than its predecessor. This paves the way for individuals and companies to do things very differently.

For companies, 4G will help to improve business productivity with a faster and more simplified experience of Internet access, including tasks like downloading large email attachments swiftly.

For individual users, the sky is the limit. Quick and easy access to social networking sites as well as seamless streaming of TV and music are guaranteed. Running errands is a thing of the past thanks to the easy access to government, banking, retail and other online on-the-go services.

Offering the best With a high-quality and reliable network that offers superfast broadband speeds and capacity, VIVA’s 4G will keep you connected and enable you to efficiently manage your online schedule. Boasting speeds of upto 100Mbps with the widest coverage across Bahrain, VIVA offers residents an exceptional experience of amazing speed anywhere in the country. This enables you to enjoy real-time video, media streaming and

www.bahrainthismonth.com

downloading, with 24/7 connectivity.

To ensure the best 4G network experience, the telecom operator has upgraded all its towers and radio network with the latest LTE base stations. VIVA has gone a step further and secured availability of the widest range of 4G-enabled devices.

So whether you are using a tablet from Samsung or Sony, or the latest handsets from Apple or Nokia, dongles or routers, VIVA has it covered.

Customers can take advantage of the services for free until the end of February, after which the service is available as an add-on for BD5. All you have to do is dial a short code for instant connectivity and experience the exceptional high-speed technology offered by the Kingdom’s market-leading innovator, VIVA. E Call 124 or visit www.viva.com.bh.

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Straight from the Sea...

E K Kanoo Tennis Championship Finals Ebrahim K Kanoo and the Bahrain Tennis Club held the final match and closing ceremony of the 2nd Ebrahim K Kanoo Junior Tennis Championships last month. The matches were held at the Bahrain Tennis Club in Juffair

For memorable dining experience, choose the fresh variety of seafood from our counter.

Mr Bin Hindi & Dr Fakhroo

Krishna, Aravind, Rama, Satheesh & Joseph

A daily catch of fish, mussels, live lobster and crabs which we prepare to your liking.

You can select from Thai, Chinese, Continental or local cooking style to meet all tastes.

Isa

Elyas

Aditya

Abdulrahman, Khamis Al Muqla & Hamdi Abdul Jawad

Live entertainment

by Calipso Duo!

Dr Mousawi

Be my Valentine!

Joseph & Frana, under-16 winner

Isa & Aravind

Diplomatic Area # 39251130, For reservation call: 17 533 383 Josh & Jackie

108 Febr uary 2014

Matthias & Michele

Yousif Haider

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Crowne Plaza New Year's Eve Party The Crowne Plaza Bahrain hosted a spectacular ‘A Night in Las Vegas’ themed New Year's Eve party. The memorable evening included a legendary Elvis tribute performance from the UK’s best Vegas Tribute artiste, live entertainment from the ‘Rivival’ band, an international dance show & a DJ

Elvis was in the building!

Debbie, Mohammed & Jane

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Ebrahim Al Kooheji & Pascal Eggerstedt

Sharon, Lyne, Tara & Kathleen

Ina & Doumit

Hanadi & Sana

Sally, Heather & Heidi

Abha, Vivek & Priya

Arthur, Lynette & Anil

Noriko & Ilyas

Omar, Dania & Rima

Nikita & Shalini

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Cucina Italiana Masterchef Finals Cucino Italiana held the finals of the Italian Masterchef inspired cooking competition for aspiring chefs at the restaurant in Juffair last month The four finalists

Ahmed & Sharif Ahmedi

Suzanne, Stuart, Giovanni & Ashley

Heather & Mark

Gary, Rodney, Jack & Mo

110 Febr uary 2014

Marie-Claire & Peter

Elvie, John, Chef Fortunato, Nadine & Cristina

Andy, James, Theresa & Jo

Peter Lyons

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Greek Speaking Community Meets Ministry of Social Development The founding members of the Greek Speaking Community in Bahrain (under formation) held a meeting with representatives from the Ministry of Social Development (MSOD). The meeting was held at the National Centre for NGO's in Tubli. Kostantinos Pallikaropoulos, Honarary Greek Consul in Bahrain also attended the event

Alex, Michael & Tnymios

Ioannis & Maria

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Dina & Vicky with Kostantinos Pallikaropoulos

Ron & Iro

Eleana, Anny & Lisa

Ayat & Maria

Iro & Irene

Nick & Michael

Vangelis & Tassos

Haitham

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After-Party At Imari To celebrate the end of the Bahrain International Motor Show, the Domain Bahrain hosted the official closing party at the IMARI Restaurant and Lounge.

Manning the decks was resident DJ Shirry D

DJ Shirry D & Pedro

Khaled & Abdulla

112 Febr uary 2014

Stunt driver Terry Grant, John Semple, Daniela & Zain

Pedro, Mohamed & Rick

Raafiq, Bongso, Joanna, Emmanuelle, Pedro, Gyan, Thare Phe, Alex & Moe

John, Denise, Pete, Georgia, Alan & Kevin

DJ Shirry D

Chris, Mark & Clint

DJ Shirry D, Terry Grant, Subi & John Semple

Momo & Ivana

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Ferre Milano Watches Launch The Sharif Group held a press conference and launch ceremony for the latest collection of Ferre Milano watches. The press conference & launch was held at the The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre last month

Waleed Sharif, Rico Pross & Manar-Al Rayes

Khalid, Rico & Waleed

Rico Pross

Nagraj, Mohammed, Hassan & Waleed Sharif

Heba

Juhaina

Marise, Waleed & Manar

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Nagraj & Mohammed

Sameera, Mae & Mitch

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Faisal Birthday Party Faisal celebrated his birthday with his parents, brother & sisters, members of his family and a number of his friends at the Four Seasons Ballroom in Adhari Park last month

Birthday boy Faisal

Mahmood, Fatin, Sawsan, Firas, Farah & Faisal

Hussain, Nada, Mohammed, Yasser & Sameera

Ayda, Noor, Adeela & Nada

Jassim, Kameela & Asma

Mirza

Faisal cuts his cake with his family

Resala & Shrooq

Rashad, Hanan, Ajwan & Jehad

Mariam, Ebtisam & Sara

Dr Tariq & Alia

- Happy Valentine's Month 20% Off for Body Treatments

114 Febr uary 2014

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MINI Brunch At Diplomat The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa hosted a special Friday MINI Brunch celebrate the GREAT British Week 2014 last month.

Guests were treated to traditional British Brunch

Doris & Panos

Khalid, Ali, Hussain, Nada & Joseph

Hussain, Charlie, Lubna & Basma

Mr Ignazio with Daniela & Elisa

Abraham & Ian

Valentino, Vito & Ariena

Clayton, Barrett & Rick

John & Lana

Chuck & Greg

Neil

Marcia, Charles & Vanessa

For More Information Please Contact : Event Director Mr. Adanan Al Qassab Mob: + 973 39132102 Email: 2014lpodchallenge@gmail.com

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Preeti & Lakshman Party Preeti & Lakshman hosted a festive party for a number of their friends at their residence in Tubli. The party was also attended by HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & Mala Kumar

Lakshman & Preeti

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala Kumar & Anne

HE Dr Mohan & Mala Kumar with Preeti & Lakshman

Vijay, Amitabh & Himanshu

David, Amitabh, Preeti, Lalima & Vanessa

Sunita, Preeti, Vanessa & Sarva

Rowena, Preeti, Vandana & Arpita

Vijay, George, Mahmoud, Omran, Rowena & Dr Mona

Irwin & Farah

Mahmoud, Lakshman & George

Ruchika & Sharon

Sanjiv & Lakshman

Joe

Dr Ali

Dr Dilip

Adnan & Faye New Year's Eve Party Adnan & Faye Sharabi hosted a New Year's Eve party for asome of their friends at their residence in Saar Abdul Rahman Alwazzan, Adnan, Faye & Lynne

Stuart & Hussain

116 February 2014

Vivienne & Sadaf

Shahzad, Christopher & Dr Mohammed Al Khozai

Rashida & Anne

Basheer

Chantel, Salwa & Hoomam

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diningthismonth

Nuasia

Four Reasons for Rejoicing James Claire Building a successful brand is hard; building a successful chain of restaurants even harder. Nuasia, a local Bahraini brand, has made it all seem effortless.

Today Nuasia is the quintessential dining spot for affordable and quality Asian food, with a menu built around Japanese, Chinese, Thai and Indian cuisine. These fantastic four styles can be found at four locations around the island; Palm Square on Budaiya Highway, Al Aali Shopping Complex, Juffair and in Isa town.

With each outlet having its own ambience, these four restaurants all have the same high quality feel to their interiors with their appealing wall panels and striking inner architecture.

The vivid colours amply reflect the spices and dishes of all four cuisines. Glass, wood and stone intertwine to deliver a rich ambience and reside seamlessly alongside one another, as do the cuisine styles on offer.

As happens each year, Nuasia has upgraded and enhanced its menu with new offerings to tempt our palates and to ensure we keep returning to a favoured dining venue.

Start your dining experience with appetisers such as gyoza, crab Rangoon and chicken satays or the new crispy chicken rolls — panko crumbed chicken rolls, filled with cheddar cheese, asparagus and carrots, with cream cheese and chive dip.

Another outstanding feature of the Nuasia concept is that the Also this month

menu includes photos of the dishes as they truly are and will be served, making for delectable reading and even tougher decision making. New also to this season’s selection of dishes is the Thai-inspired chicken or prawns in spicy garlic sauce and the equally delicious chicken and cashew nut stir-fry.

Meanwhile, the Indian menu has seen four new additions; lamb shank masala, dal tadka, paneer butter masala and achari curry, available with chicken or prawns. Enjoy, too, a tandoori grill of rashmi chicken breast — tandoori-grilled chicken breasts marinated in yoghurt and light spices served with a mint chutney. Tempura fish fillets burst onto the new menu in the Japanese section, which is already laden with a full offering of sushi and such wondrous dishes as chicken katsu curry, beef terriyaki and udon noodles.

New offerings can be found in every part of the menu, including side dishes and even drinks. But it is perhaps the desserts that will see the most excitement from long-time Nuasia fans as the menu bulges with the likes of vanilla ice cream balls scooped and batter-fried and served with chocolate sauce and berries. Authentic gulab jaman makes an entry as well alongside such old favourites as deep fried bananas with peanut ice cream, chocolate fondant and coconut panna cotta.

So, dine in, take out or enjoy home delivery for a tour of Asia that your taste buds will thank you for.

E Call 17 587-171 (Seef), 17 691-919 (Budaiya), 17 826-999 (Juffair) and 17 870-222 (Isa Town).

118 x Happenings - 120 x Valentine’s Offer - 122 x Valentine’s Calendar 132 x Restaurant Listing - 133 x Theme Nights

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When? February 1-15 Event? Chinese New Year Venue? China Garden, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Hope you have an appetite; this restaurant features a number of interesting dishes.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? February 1-28 Event? Food promotion Venue? Camelot Restaurant & Lounge Chef Maria Kimsey brings new recipes to this unique French bistro.

E Call 39 977-540.

When? February 1-28 Event? Food festival Venue? Silk Restaurant, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Following popular demand, the Swiss festival continues throughout February.

E Call 17 460-000.

When? February 1, 19 Event? Cooking class Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa The chefs at Fiamma and Wok let you in on secrets of gourmet recipes.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? February 6, 13, 20 and 27 Event? Barbecue nights Venue? Nasmat, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre Enjoy the weather while it lasts with this poolside barbecue for BD22++.

E Call 17 171-000.

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What’s for Dinner?

From a chance to taste the finest cheese and exotic wines to preparing authentic Italian and Asian dishes with the experts, gourmands have a lot to look forward to this month.

The Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain continues its ‘Swiss Gourmet Feast’ throughout February. Visit Silk Restaurant on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 7pm for a taste of some of the best cheese you’ll ever have.

Seafood lovers can drop by on Mondays for a selection of delicious dishes. Foodies can also kick off the weekend with their unique Thursday night brunch.

Fiamma, the Italian restaurant at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, has received great praise for its cooking class. Join chef Stefano in the kitchen on February 1 from 10am to noon for a few his family secrets about traditional dishes. Wok, the South-East Asian restaurant at the five-star hotel, also hosts a cooking class, on February 19.

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain plans to celebrate the Chinese New Year like never before with a 17-day-long food festival at China Garden. The award-winning restaurant will serve special traditional dishes in addition to the creative signature recipes of chef Wang.

Make the best of the weather while it lasts at Nasmat at Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre. The barbecue nights will be held on February 6, 13, 20 and 27 from 7.30-10pm. Relax by the infinity pool in a Mediterranean setting for BD22++, inclusive of a soft drink.

Camelot Restaurant & Lounge in Adliya has appointed a new chef, Maria Kimsey from Britain.

The 26-year-old combines her passion for food and appetite for experimentation to create her fun and imaginative recipes. Visit them this month to have a go at their revamped menu that sees plenty of new dishes.

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Golen Tulip New's Year Eve Party The Golden Tulip Bahrain held a fun filled New Year's Eve party to ring in 2014. The event held at the Gilgamesh Ballroom featured a Latino extravaganza with flamenco dancers, a Cuban DJ and supporting band

Yousif, Nazia & Hani

Zaid & Zahi

118 February 2014

Abdulrahim Al Sayed & Rasha

Lorela & Salah

Ali, Hassan & Ali

Mohamed, Jasmin & Jasser

Devika & Abhilash

John & Regine

Kotie & Barry

A flamenco dancer

Sadeq & Ilse

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diningvalentine'shappenings

Blipp & Win Here’s your chance to win an overnight stay, a night out or a gift box from one of the Kingdom’s leading five-star hotels.

Three great prizes await the winners of our Valentine’s Day offer. Here's what you can win.

A Quiet Affair No matter what the day might mean to you, February 14 calls for a celebration of love. This is your chance to embrace and appreciate the people in your life who make you happy.

BLIPP THIS PAGE TO WIN: OVERNIGHT STAY AND DINNER FOR TWO AT AL AREEN PALACE & SPA DINNER FOR TWO AT WOK, SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA VALENTINE’S BOX OF GIFTS FROM KEMPINSKI GRAND & IXIR HOTEL EXPLORE OUR SPONSORS

120 February 2014

While you have elaborate plans for the special day, others may simply prefer to stay at home and share an intimate dinner.

Whatever you decide, remember that Valentine’s Day is about one thing — spending quality time with a loved one.

If you would like to go out to a romantic evening at a favourite restaurant or find somewhere to party, we have it covered with our calendars in both the Dining and After Dark sections of the magazine. However, Valentine’s Day isn’t all about dinner and a movie. There’s nothing wrong with spontaneity, but neither is there anything wrong with a little planning. So, go ahead and prepare something a little bit different for February 14.

Whether you are already in a relationship or still single there’s always somewhere to keep everyone happy and entertained on this day. You could find love on the dance floor or impress your date with your mind-blowing moves.

Choosing romantic stays for a weekend getaway is no easy task. Bahrain is bursting with luxury hotels, resorts and spas.

Having a checklist helps. Remember it’s about pampering yourself and your partner. Focus on the view, the restaurants and other extras like rose petals, chocolates and hampers awaiting your arrival.

It isn’t Valentine’s Day if you haven’t swapped gifts. You’d be lying if you don’t feel the pressure of getting the perfect present.

The only thing a gift has to be is personal (no pressure). To be fair, to both him and her, everyone sheds hints as to what they’d like. Get the hint; get the gift. It’s really that simple. For those still clueless, read on for some gift ideas that we’ve put together.

The Blipp & Win offer is only valid for residents of Bahrain; all winners will be required to show a copy of their Bahrain CPR card.

Competition closes on 10 February 2014.

Al Areen Palace & Spa: Dinner for two at the Keizo Far East Restaurant followed by an overnight stay and breakfast in one of the resort’s plush villas. For a romantic evening under the stars, this is the perfect Valentine venue.

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotels Bahrain City Centre: Surprise your partner with a takeaway Valentine’s Surprise Box from T-Spoon. It includes a heart-shaped cake, and vouchers from Pure Spa, Tagz and Bahrain City Centre!

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa: Experience the romantic décor and ambience of Wok, the hotel’s authentic South East Asian restaurant. Enjoy an exceptional world of Asian cuisine with a special set menu.

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KEMPINSKI GRAND & IXIR HOTEL

A Day of Luxury Nothing says romance like whisking away your partner for a short break at a luxury hotel. Pamper your loved one this Valentine’s Day with one of these treats designed for two.

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre invites you to spend Valentine’s Day or the whole weekend enjoying a few of the finer things in life. From a day at the spa to afternoon tea and fine dining, this five-star venue has it covered.

On the table Roll up your sleeves and learn how to prepare a quick threecourse meal from 3pm-6pm on February 8 at Saveur restaurant.

The menu at the cooking class consists of a seafood martini starter, and chicken breast stuffed with sun-dried tomatoes and soft cheese accompanied by wild mushrooms and green asparagus for the main course. Finishing it off are chocolate crème brûlée and strawberry ice cream!

Those who would rather enjoy the ultimate fine dining experience at Saveur on Valentine’s Day can reserve a table for a four-course dinner accompanied by a glass of champagne, served amidst rose petals and candles. No woman will leave the venue empty-handed as there are many gifts on offer from Al Zain Jewellery as well as a chance to win a white gold, diamond and ruby pendant worth BD300.

On a higher level To woo your sweetheart in the afternoon, pick the romantic afternoon tea at the Mezzanine Lounge at Kempinski Grand Hotel from 3pm-6pm priced at BD15++ per couple. Enjoy some tea, delicious cakes and sandwiches with an intimate conversation in the privacy of your own ‘pod’ decorated with candles and roses to set the mood.

If you prefer a dinner setting, then opt to spend the evening in this romantic ambience and indulge in the four-course dinner set especially for Valentine’s Day, inclusive of a bottle of

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sparkling wine. With only five private dining pods available, it is recommended to book as soon as possible. All ladies will receive a gift from Al Zain Jewellery in this venue as well. If you prefer the lush setting of Boudoir, the same four-course menu is available in your own booth.

Brunch and tea Tune in to the mushy mood with Kempinski Ixir Hotel’s Friday brunch at Baharat. Not only will you both be treated to a lavish feast, but your partner will be entitled to a 20 per cent discount on the price. Make your reservation before February 12 and your lady will get a gift from Al Zain Jewellery. She could even win a pendant worth BD300, which will be raffled during the brunch. If you’d rather spend the day at home and cosy up with your loved one, opt for T-Spoon’s special takeaways priced at BD18. Surprise your Valentine with a box full of thoughtful goodies, heart shaped cake, gifts and offers from Pure Spa, Tagz and even a BD10 shopping voucher from Bahrain City Centre. You can also order a personalised heart-shaped cake of your selected flavour, with a picture and message of your choice on the cake, and of course a red rose for BD9.

Romantic getaway Whisk your partner away for the weekend to dreamland.

Kempinski Grand Hotel’s diamond suites will be perked up with a romantic set-up. Enjoy a wonderful three-course dinner accompanied by a glass of champagne in the privacy of your exclusive suite and spend the night in the luxurious suite for only BD330++. Upgrade your stay to the penthouse Royal Suite and get a pendant worth BD300 from Al Zain Jewellery for free!

E Call 17 171-441, 17 171-155 or 17 171-000,

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Table for Two February 2014

Camelot Restaurant & Lounge

Silks Restaurant (17 460-000)

Treat your partner to a five-course dinner with unlimited selected beverages for BD24++ per person and win a stay at Mövenpick Dead Sea or Beirut for three nights.

(39 977-540)

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

Adliya

Attend ‘Seasons of Love’ in a black and/ or red outfit. Every couple gets a free Polaroid picture, welcome drinks, and a Valentine’s Day card.

Klouds Restaurant

Rimal/Keizo/Saffron

(17 360-000)

(17 845-000)

The four-star venue serves a candlelight dinner throughout Valentine’s weekend, from February 13-15, for BD25 per couple.

This unique venue sweeps you off your feet with an irresistible selection of four-course menus in three of its fine dining restaurants.

The K Hotel

Al Areen Palace & Spa

Level 34

Fiamma Restaurant

Enjoy a three-course dinner for BD56 per couple, including a bottle of fine wine; discover the magic of executive chef Bengt Carlsson.

The restaurant hosts an Italian gastronomic festival from February 12-21 in celebration of the month of romance. Experience the journey from 7-11pm all week long.

(17 636-363)

(16 000-222)

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

The Domain

Fusions Restaurant

Saveur Restaurant

Take in the panoramic views of the city and hop on to a culinary journey at BD28++ per person. The three-course menu is inclusive of a glass of bubbly.

Give her the chance to win a pendant from Al Zain Jewellery worth BD300 as you dine in what is known as the most romantic restaurant in Bahrain.

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain

Kempinski Grand Hotel Bahrain City Centre

(17 713-000)

(17 171-155)

Golestan Restaurant (17 533-533)

A special set menu is on offer at BD19++ per person including a halfbottle of wine. Roses and heart-shaped cookies will be given to the ladies.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

Café Marisol (17 701-201)

Take your Valentine to paradise and treat her to a set menu dinner or book a stay and try out their breakfast buffet for two.

Al Bander Hotel & Resort

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THE DOMAIN BAHRAIN

Dining With a Passion This chef’s creations are as visually attractive as they are appetising; it’s a case of love at first sight and just the ticket for an evening of romance.

That the chefs at The Domain know a thing or two about food is a known fact. But this Valentine’s month, they will prove that its love at first bite, when you dine at any one of the hotel’s restaurants. Things are heating up and Executive Chef Bengt Carlsson gets even more passionate about his creations during the ‘Month of Love’. Together with Serge Decrauzat, the executive pastry chef, they have created the ultimate romantic three-course dinner for BHD 56++ per couple for Valentine’s Day Extend dinner into an all-night affair for just BD149++ and you’ll enjoy a Panorama junior suite, which comes with a very spacious bathroom as well as panoramic views of the Manama skyline.

This night to remember includes red roses, a heart-shaped cake, a bottle of bubbly or sparkling date juice, breakfast in bed, and a 45-minute massage for both of you. A guaranteed late check-out will round out your romantic Valentine experience!

Situated conveniently in Manama’s Diplomatic Area, the Domain has quickly forged a reputation as one of the best dining venues in town. Ranging from contemporary Japanese to French, Basque to Italian-Lebanese, the venues come with spectacular city views and a list of daily events and happenings is lengthy and deserves to be explored in detail.

Start of the week On Mondays you are invited to The Cellar, at level 34, where the sommelier takes you on a journey of the best vineyards, paired with a selection of the executive chef’s favourite canapés. Lasting from 8pm to 10pm, this experience is priced at only BD10++ per person.

At Txoko, Latin lovers can enjoy salsa, merengue and reggae played all night long. Enjoy two drinks for the price of one from 6pm until 8pm. Meanwhile, at Imari Restaurant & Lounge there is an extended Happy Hour running from 6pm to 10pm, on selected beverages.

Guys and girls Wednesday is ‘Guys Night Out’ with a steak feast at Le Sauvage Restaurant, where you can dine in a private dining room and be served a selection of the finest prime cuts.

Book in advance for six to ten guys and the chef will prepare three prime cuts of beef, complemented by a selection of sauces, mustards, salts and sides, at BD25++ per person. The sommelier selects half a bottle of wine per person into the bargain. While the guys dine, Txoko is all about the ladies.

Whether you are a fashionista, socialista or domainista, bring four of your girlfriends and receive a complimentary bottle of bubbly from 9pm until 11pm.

To add to the excitement, The Domain gives away exciting surprises as the resident DJ spins the latest hits all night long.

Friday brunch Fridays are for a very grown-up brunch. Starting at BD19++ per person, you can explore an amazing array of chef's favourites and fresh seafood with music on level 34, from 12pm to 4pm.

E Call 16 000-000.

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February 2014 123

diningvalentine BICE RISTORANTE

An Italian Affair

An impressive location is just the start of a wonderful dining experience when this restaurant is your destination.

The large double doors with art deco-stylised ‘B’ door handles open to a warm yet modern venue with a romantic touch of the extravagance from a bygone era. When entering Bice Ristorante, located on the second floor of Moda Mall, you are welcomed into a spacious bar, beyond which is the glass-enclosed two-storey restaurant. Impressive by itself, the restaurant is breathtaking with its views across Bahrain Bay. With an accomplished Italian chef in charge of the kitchen, this magnificent venue, which seats 170, serves up dishes as crisp and refreshing as the surrounds.

For Valentine’s Day on February 14, Bice offers its regular à la carte menu together with roses and chocolates on arrival. The evening’s entertainment is provided by DJ Hamad and singer Alphonso.

Brunch delights Offering cuisine styles from around Italy, the restaurant serves up a business brunch throughout the week from Sunday to Thursday, from 12 noon to 3pm. Enjoy three courses from a daily specials menu for just BD10++ per person.

On Saturday, enjoy an ‘all-you-can-eat’ brunch priced at BD18++ per person and for those below 18 years at BD11++, inclusive of complimentary beverages. At Bice, you simply place your order and wait for it all to come to you.

Ladies’ nights The bar area runs happy hours from 5pm to 8pm, while Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays are Ladies’ Nights from 8-11pm.

E Call 17 533-666.

CASA MEXICANA RESTAURANT

Mexican Flavours

Latin Americans are known for their hot-blooded ways; where better to head for Valentine’s than an authentic Mexican restaurant!

Casa Mexicana has your Valentine’s Day dinner needs taken care of this year with a special menu guaranteed to warm any heart.

Priced at BD20 ++ per couple, there’s a four-course set menu with a welcome margarita of your choice or a glass of wine. Of course, traditional red roses will be on hand for the ladies and you will be serenaded by the Casa’s live entertainment.

Recently refurbished, Casa Mexicana is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. The restaurant offers a three-course set lunch menu for BD5.500++, inclusive of soft drinks. Enjoy a choice of three main courses — chicken, fish or beef — and dine in comfort with music that will get you dancing through the afternoon.

Themed evenings Casa Mexicana features Couples’ Night every week where there’s a shared appetiser, main course for two and dessert with a welcome margarita, or glass of wine, for BD18++ per couple. ‘Margarita Madness’, every Sunday and Tuesday, are popular evenings, where ordering a jug of margarita entitles you to a further half-jug free!

A new look The new sun-blushed red look is representative of Mexican chillies and its sun-drenched land. The interior will transport you to the Spanish haciendas of old Mexico. The bar area is now enclosed in glass, making it the smoking section. The comfortable seating offers a modern vibe in a lounge-like setting.

E Call 17 715-521 or 36 955-400.

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THE K HOTEL

The Spirit of Romance Valentine’s Day does not have to happen on just a single day each year; throughout the month this hotel is treating couples to an experience to remember.

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Making the expression of love even sweeter this year is The K Hotel, in Juffair, offering couples a very special experience with their Valentine’s Day weekend packages.

The K Romance package is offered throughout February to all couples and includes a romantic dinner for two and one night’s accommodation in a Junior Suite. Rekindle old and new flames alike with a mid-winter escape, or simply enjoy luxurious accommodation with your special loved one as a treat for both of you.

The package, with its five-star service, also includes ‘The Art of Romance’ couples treatment. Surprise your special one with this invigorating getaway and there will be no doubt how much you care for your partner. This package includes your suite, decorated with candles and rose petals, and is priced at BD110 net per night, and includes a bottle of sparkling beverage, chocolate-dipped strawberries and other delectable bites.

“This is a truly unique way for a couple to honour each other and to celebrate precious time together in paradise,” states Volker Mandlowsky, general manager of The K Hotel.

“If pre-arranged packages don’t suit you then by all means talk to the staff at the reservations desk at The K Hotel and you can ‘Kreate’ your own romance package with a choice of rooms and add-ons to put you firmly in the driver’s seat when creating your own romantic destiny.”

For the Valentine’s Day weekend only, you can end your special stay with a delicious breakfast in bed the following morning.

Dinner in the Klouds Klouds Restaurant offers contemporary modern cuisine with an Asian touch. The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant offers a superb breakfast buffet, business lunch and themed dinner buffets. The romantic season at Klouds will see the restaurant decorated for the occasion with rose petals, balloons and candle-lit tables from February 13 to 15.

Over this period the restaurant will be serving a very special Valentine’s Day dinner buffet with house-made gourmet chocolates and two glasses of sparkling beverage per couple.

This special treat, created by the executive chef, is priced at BD25 per couple and you will even be serenaded by music duo Anett and Adam, who will fill the air with romantic tunes from 9pm-11pm nightly.

The K Hotel always finds ways to make you smile and this year, whether Valentine’s stretches an entire month, a solitary meal or just an entire night, The K Hotel has the romantic package to fit your desires.

E Call 17 360-000 or visit www.thekhotel.com

February 2014 125

diningvalentine CUCINA ITALIANA

The Best of Italy

This Valentine’s Day, add a little spice to your celebration and take your loved one to Italy — without having to leave the city!

You might not be able to spend the weekend overseas this year, but Bahrain has the next best thing — an authentic Italian restaurant. Treat your loved one to an unforgettable Valentine’s dinner at Cucina Italiana on February 14 with a three-course meal and a bottle of bubbly for two for BD28+ per couple.

Located in Juffair, this Italian restaurant brings together the most renowned parts of Italian culture — food and art — to make diners feel as if they have been transported to this beautiful European country. The restaurant offers only the finest of hand-picked ingredients.

Enjoy a delicious dish of pasta, the tastiest wood-fired pizza, desserts, a wide selection of beverages, and of course, a quality cup of coffee in any of their dining areas. If you are looking for traditional Italian dining this Valentine’s, then Cucina Italiana will take you all the way.

Whether you’re with a small group of friends or just with your significant other, great food and fine wine can make a truly memorable evening.

New promotions The trattoria has an exciting lunch deal on offer. You can enjoy a starter, a main course and a soft drink for BD6. Pizza lovers are in for a treat as Cucina Italiana gives you a focaccia pizza free with every pizza you order.

Both promotions are available from Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 3pm.

E Call 17 001-317 or email marketing@bflc.com.bh..

LANTERNS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

An Expanding Franchise When seeing double is not sufficient, Lanterns plans to double up again the number of venues in which to indulge in this house of Indian fusion cuisine.

Not satisfied with the success of Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge, in Adliya, the owners of this restaurant franchise are planning two further outlets for the Kingdom during the course of the year. First up will be a third location at Durrat Al Bahrain which is scheduled to open in the coming weeks. A fourth restaurant in Riffa is due before the end of the year.

For Valentine’s Day, Lanterns will offer a special Friday buffet menu for both lunch and dinner.

The Adliya venue has become a popular destination due to its outdoor garden and BBQ grill, and the upstairs Goa lounge.

While it might be the food that attracts people to the restaurant, it is the service, hospitality, quality and affordable prices that keeps everyone returning.

Jam-packed with delicious dishes, Lanterns offers a complete menu of events. The Goa lounge, with its private roof-top dance floor, bar and DJ, hosts several party nights during the week.

These include ‘High Heels Night’ on Wednesdays, ‘Shoot the Night’ on Thursdays and a ‘Gentlemen’s Night’ on Fridays.

The restaurant features live entertainment, Monday through Saturday, to entertain you while you dine; on Thursdays and Fridays there’s a dinner buffet starting from 7pm, while a lunch buffet on Friday and Saturday starts at 12 noon.

Throughout the week, you can enjoy a fast and delicious ‘busy bee’ lunch of soup, garden salad, signature appetizer and choice of main course inclusive of a glass of house red or white, pint or juice. This is priced at BD6.9 net per person.

E Call 17 590-591 (Budaiya) or 17 250-999 (Adliya).

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Dinner on the beach

Fiamma Restaurant

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

A Touch of Italian French hospitality meets Italian decadence at this luxury property this month, bringing you the true taste of the region.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February is the month of love and when it comes to romance or gastronomy, Italians tend to know the best. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa offers a journey through the Italian culinary capitals from February 12-21 at Fiamma Restaurant.

Sample authentic dishes from a special à la carte menu and beverages from different Italian regions, served every evening of the festival from 7pm to 11pm.

The Settimana Italiana festival brings an eclectic array of dishes carefully chosen by chef Stefano. Born in the northern part of Italy, he likes working with quality ingredients and creates each dish with passion and commitment. Keeping traditional flavours intact, he takes pleasure in creating new delicacies.

In addition to this, catch renowned acrobatic pizza maker Pasqualino Barbasso in action. Considered to be a man on a mission, he makes high-quality pizza in the most entertaining way. The 36-year-old pizzaiolo is among the most skilful masters of acrobatic pizza making and has travelled around the world dishing out great pizza made according to true Italian traditions.

The entertainment doesn’t end here. Your dining experience is brought to life by soprano and tenor, Vincenzo Sanso and Carla Mazzarella, who’ve arrived from Italy especially for the festival.

The restaurant staff joins in as well with manager Lorenzo Sabella delivering a performance himself.

Perfect Valentine Indulge in ‘Magnifique Romance’ on Valentine’s Day. Give your loved one a stay to remember at this expansive property and let the Italian fare at Fiamma ignite your taste buds and warm your hearts.

The French art de vivre, Venetian classics and the operatic strains by a world-class duo guarantee your dream dinner date.

This magical evening can be enjoyed at BD62 per couple and is inclusive of a bottle of house wine.

Throughout the month, relax with your special someone and wake up to the stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. The package offers a bottle of champagne on arrival, an intimate breakfast in your room, a 30-minute spa treatment per person per day and VIP room amenities.

E Call 17 636-363.

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diningvalentine CAFÉ ITALIA RESTAURANT

A Love Treat Awaits

One of the most anticipated days of the year, Valentine’s is when people share the euphoria of romance, mutual respect and happiness. Café Italia extends this celebration to a full month of adoration.

Renowned for its dramatic and sophisticated decor, Café Italia in Adliya will transform itself to become a love nest this February. Seating over 180 and designed to satisfy the needs and tastes of discerning diners, the restaurant sports a new dining and lounge area for smokers, while non-smokers get to enjoy their dining within the main restaurant.

This Valentine’s Day, Café Italia is bringing the best of Italian love and romance to its guests throughout the month.

Every couple who make a phone reservation and mention the phrase ‘Love Treat’ will get 10 per cent discount off the total bill. This treat applies for any couples — married, dating, siblings or just friends.

Working hard to transform the month into something special, the restaurant’s executive chef, Twedi Martatna, and his team will complete the Valentine experience with aphrodisiacs such as the delightful arugula salad with avocado, almond slivers, aged balsamic reduction topped with parmigiano regiano or the grilled veal with Madagascan vanilla potato mousse, steam broccoli with pizzaola sauce.

Guests who dine on Valentine’s Day will further be rewarded with hearts, flowers and chocolates combined with the exceptional cuisine and the award-winning service by a team dedicated to providing you with a perfect culinary experience.

E Call 17 744-774 (Adliya).

VAPIANO RESTAURANT

Vapiano Bahrain continues this month to host Chef Cornelia Poletto’s Michelin-star creations as part of its ‘Specials inspired

by Cornelia Poletto’ promotion. The restaurant has joined forces with this German culinary sensation and chef to treat us with authentic Italian dishes.

Cornelia, a famed German restaurateur, television personality and author, is a renowned chef who successfully apprenticed for German gourmet chef Heinz Winkler and eventually ran her own Michelin-rated restaurant in Hamburg, called Poletto.

Today retired from her own restaurants she can often be seen on German television.

Vapiano’s creators are serious about Italian authenticity and her dishes are not only Italian inspired but named accordingly.

Enjoy a salad of insalata di Campo — a delicious salad of field corn — or insalata scarolae salmone, a salmon-based salad.

Pasta dishes to look for are salmone e limoneor (lemon and salmon pasta), gorgonzola e pistacchi, or gorgonzola and pistachios, and ravioli con patate e salviaor, which is ravioli with potato.

With many forms of pasta from which to choose and all made fresh on location, the food is not only authentic Italian but as fresh as eating in Italy itself. All dishes are prepared in front of guests with fresh ingredients and authentic Italian recipes.

Located at the first level of Bahrain’s City Centre, Vapiano offers an urban upscale ambience and modern interactive guest service.

Italians know a thing or two about the art of love; this restaurant knows how to deliver an Italian experience that will stick in the memory.

Savour the Flavour

A festival of dishes inspired by a Michelin-rated chef awaits guests at this modern Italian eatery.

E Call 17 491-391.

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RAYÉS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Breakfast by the Sea Start the day as locals do with the decadent breakfast dishes that have been added to the menu at this popular Lebanese restaurant.

There is no meal more comforting than breakfast, especially when you enjoy it with a spectacular view. Rayés Restaurant & Lounge at Coral Bay invites you to kick-start the day with healthy breakfast options, which they have recently added to the menu.

The Lebanese bistro serves a lavish spread of traditional dishes, like kishik bil lahme and mankoushe lahme, in a tranquil seaside setting. The initial tasting of the new menu was well received and attracted a lot of people, who love the freshness of Middle Eastern dishes. Get a taste of Beirut with their irresistible version of fatteh. This Middle Eastern venue serves a tantalising bread platter that is a full meal in itself.

Offering a royal start to your day, Rayés’ breakfast is available every day of the week, except Friday, from 8am until 11am.

Bring along friends and family to this picturesque venue and watch the sun rise from the Arabian Gulf.

If you can’t bring yourself to leave your bed in this cosy weather, then take advantage of Rayés’ free home delivery services. After all, there are few things better than breakfast in bed! You can also have it delivered to your office — for free!

The perfect ambience Rayés offers great Lebanese fare and boasts the ultimate location for any meal. Situated on the waterfront overlooking

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the marina with Muharraq skyline off in the distance, this bistro lets you dine al fresco, while listening to the crashing of waves.

You can also sit inside and take in Coral Bay’s new lavish decor with large open windows.

Whether you want to relax by the sea and catch up with friends or entertain business clients over lunch or dinner, Rayés is an ideal venue for any occasion. Its scenic waterfront location, modern interior decor, live Arabic music and exquisite Lebanese cuisine will impress the most discerning guests.

E Call 81222.

February 2014 129

diningf&bhappenings ATAYEB RESTAURANT

They say that a rose by any other name is still a rose. So, too, ‘Atayeb’; when translated from Arabic it means ‘delicious’ and thus a perfect name for a restaurant.

A Delicious Affair

Atayeb Restaurant, along the Budaiya Highway, is a spacious multi-cuisine eatery that seats more than 150 people. Enter the two-storey venue and you will be surprised by an interior much larger than its façade belies; the high ceiling, pleasant white and ochre colour scheme and openness are all impressive.

Dine downstairs and you’ll get unparalleled views of the glass-enclosed working kitchen, where you can view the process of the meals being put together and cooked to perfection. Upstairs there is ample space in which to enjoy a meal and this includes a conference room, large booth-style seating and private family dining areas.

The restaurant’s executive chef and his skilled team delivers flawless multicultural dining options of Italian, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Everything is prepared fresh on site, including the daily breads and fresh juices.

Part of the enjoyment of Atayeb is to dine within this modern restaurant, which yields an aura of fine dining at affordable prices and in a relaxed atmosphere that comes with great friendly service. For convenience the restaurant also offers guests a take out and home delivery service.

Atayeb is open for lunch and dinner daily from 12pm to 11.30pm weekdays and, with the addition of breakfast, on weekends from 8am. E Call 17 590-119.

bystanderthismonth

338 GREAT British Week Party 338 Garden Restaurant hosted “The Great 338 Garden Pub Fest" to celebrate the GREAT British Week.

Guests could enjoy 338’s traditional British Fish and chips along with deals on favorite British beverages

Alessandra, Troy & Cris

Hassan & Fadi

Colin, Margaret, baby Henry, Francesca & David

130 February 2014

Scott, Mary, Martina & Ciara

Hassan & Greg

Roberta, baby Lohan & Dani

DJ Kaz

Lia & her giant juice

Silvana & Lia

Richard

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SHOO FEE MA FEE

Igniting a Flame There are few better ways to spark romance than by sharing a meal together.

When that involves plates meant for sharing between friends, then the spark has been ignited.

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Shoo Fee Ma Fee Lebanese Restaurant, in Adliya café ‘square’, where sharing is a way of life. Whether just for the month of romance, February, or any lunch and dinner throughout the year, this is a large and impressive venue; a little hidden from view but well worth finding.

Tucked away within this haven of local cafés is Shoo Fee Ma Fee, whose name in Arabic translates as ‘What’s up?’ When you discover this little hidden gem you will instantly know what is, indeed, up — great Lebanese food.

Everything about this restaurant is modern, from the two-storey building to the cuisine on offer. The venue boasts a mixture of indoor and outdoor dining that is bright and open with plenty of space for private gatherings and functions as well.

The restaurant offers a new take on the idea of an ‘open’ kitchen; you can see what is cooking from your table and the street outside. Whether it is steaming hot breads or oven-fresh pizzas you can draw comfort from knowing that everything you eat is freshly cooked.

Add to that delicious, modern Lebanese cuisine, which is served in formidably sized portions, and it is not difficult to understand why Shoo Fee Ma Fee has garnered a loyal following.

Bright colours of red, green and yellow decorate the furnishings and walls while large glass windows illuminate the nights and brighten the days. Tall ceilings, staggered decks,

outdoor balconies and a courtyard offer a different dining experience with each visit.

Using the freshest of ingredients and marinating them in natural citrus juice, herbs and spices, the food here covers everything from the home to the healthy — for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you fancy a big meal or a light snack, Shoo Fee Ma Fee is a casual dining environment in which it simply feels great to reside.

This is one restaurant, as well, with ample parking for customers; if you do not have the time to visit, take the experience into your home with their home delivery service and find out what’s up!

So, when it comes to Valentine’s Day, the ambience and cuisine generates that extra spark for a special occasion with a loved one. E Call 17 311-280.

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diningrestaurantlisting World Beat Café

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

17 813-750 17 744-773 77 055-772 17 594-458 17 580-045 17 581-221 17 811-970 17 742-266 17 291-569 17 566-565 17 725-550 17 580-552 17 179-041 17 494-940 17 870-070

Asian Chin Li Curry Country David's Stir Fry Hot Wok House Boat Kontiki Meisei Memories Monsoon Noodle Factory Nu Asia Panasia

17 717-717 17 537-555 17 540-188 17 178-083 16 010-321 17 525-455 17 007-770 17 178-646 17 749-222 16 010-534 17 587-171 17 721-600

17 612-576

European Block 338 Camelot Coco’s Cyprus Taverna Déjà Vu Paul Bakery & Restaurant Sizzlers Txoko Zytoun

17 710-338 17 717-745 17 716-512 17 716-316 13 657-770 17 172-321 17 716-999 16 000-000 17 298-471

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

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

Fusion Fusions

17 746-427

Indian Akbar Clay Oven Copper Chimney Curry Tree

17 296-660 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662

Upstairs Downstairs Wafi Gourmet Zoe

17 713-093 17 179-999 17 176-400

International (5 Star Hotel) Al Safir Al Waha Al Wasmeyyah La Med La Mosaique Le Domain[34] Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya Saveur Selections Silk’s

17 524-538 17 746-425 17 535-000 17 580-000 17 531-122 16 000-000 17 525-214 17 845-000 17 636-410 17 171-000 17 227-777 17 460-055

International (4 Star Hotel) Al Nakheel Café California Café Marisol Café Sayah Chaq’s Grill Fusion Café Grand Café Il Giardino Julio's Coffee Shop Klouds La Brasserie La Café Le Cascada Le Jardin Neyran Parsia Ramee Bistro Ramee Café Red Café Relax Inn Coffee Shop Rendezvous Tiffany’s

17 559-900 17 826-001 17 701-201 17 224-000 17 290-555 17 811-688 17 727-230 17 583-388 17 565-888 17 360-000 17 313-333 17 810-555 17 360-360 17 742-000 17 584-400 17 814-777 17 290-600 17 297-000 17 296-660 17 815-815 17 366-222 17 716-999

Iranian

Peppers Rice Bowl The Noodle House Wok

17 717-808 17 179-600 17 666-353 17 636-415

Brazilian Brasa de Brasil Brazil Rodizio Grill

17 582-225 17 826-686

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

17 717-969 17 717-439 17 746-423 17 564-424 17 722-199 17 728-700 17 725-015 17 506-070 17 292-988 17 533-533 17 713-603

Café Restaurants Cafe Delices Café T Delifrance Esquires Le Bateau Le Chocolat Lina’s Café Rosa Verge Skyw@lk Café

17 746-434 17 750-777 17 696-031 77 177-660 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538 13 667-777 17 363-999

Hyderabad House It’s Mirchi Kalpaka Lanterns Mantra Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Shamiana Spices The Yellow Chilli

17 720-031 17 727-230 17 297-000 17 590-591 17 211-133 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 178-085 17 531-122 17 580-480

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

17 564-282 17 591-259

International East West Cuisine Healthy Calorie Jim’s Restaurant La Fontaine Links Little Chef/Wholesale Mei n Yu Muju Nando’s Pomodorini Rendezvous Salad Boutique The Crepe Café

17 210-012 17 369-399 17 710-654 17 230-123 17 751-262 17 595-950 16 010-160 16 039-800 17 825-100 17 000-121 17 178-712 36 664-427 17 820-722

Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Persian Room Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill

Arirang Da Rae Jung

17 290-945 17 002-490

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

17 298-008 17 292-911 17 533-336 17 531-122

Shawarma 17 131-111 17 725-414 17 224-000 17 280-111 17 100-069 17 697-687 17 360-000 17 566-556 17 506-070 17 744-144 17 312-700 17 311-280 17 229-979 16 033-800 17 746-417 17 312-222 17 365-055

Mexican Casa Mexicana Margarita Mexicana Senor Paco’s Al Zerda

La Perle Sea Chef Seafood Market Waves

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873 16 662-123

Middle Eastern Al Abraaj Al-Bokhari

17 178-090 17 311-186

Leewan Al Khor Melh Alzad Taza Yalla Yalla

16 010-666 17 311-170 17 784-997 17 827-999

Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

Steak Houses Klouds Le Sauvage Meat + Fire Legendz Plums The Butcher Shop & Grill The Meat Co

17 360-000 16 000-000 17 227-777 17 580-000 17 172-323 17 742-080

Thai Baan Saeng Thai Banana Leaf Lanna Thai I Am Thai Orchid Thai Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

17 715-775 17 744-171 17 593-940 77 040-454 17 296-660 17 746-421 17 721-155 17 506-070 17 717-040 17 710-771

Turkish Iskenderun Grill Kosebasi Turkish Mashawi Express

17 292-950 17 172-322 17 002-939

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

Italiano Justapasta La Pergola La Taverna Luigi's Restaurant & Pizza Masso Medzo Mia Mia Mino’s Pizzeria Mondo Nino Oliveto Pasta Art Pastarito Ristoranti Prego Primavera Roma Romano’s Macaroni Grill Vapiano

17 533-666 17 744-774 17 822-274 17 587-878 17 713-710 17 001-317 17 636-363 17 695-556 17 581-919 17 506-070 17 746-419 17 229-979 17 693-533 17 721-061 17 227-777 17 564-414 17 744-777 17 525-484 17 566-555 17 716-747 17 001-750 17 179-300 17 751-263 17 580-000 17 725-885 17 723-818 17 491-391

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

132 February 2014

17 524-579 17 369-269 17 811-511 17 580-600 16 010-166 17 746-431 17 555-989

Korean

17 583-555 17 290-945 17 582-422 17 533-383 17 725-638 17 533-000 17 522-733 17 713-113 17 746-429 17 178-748 17 718-090 17 822-274 17 583-373

Moroccan Momo Le Marrakech

17 180-659 17 003-273

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

17 826-222 17 179-400 17 723-133 17 794-000 17 581-516 17 720-929 16 010-524 17 711-113 17 811-666 17 827-133 17 811-830

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

17 586-555

Seafood Asia Sea Food Far East Seafood Market Fish Market La Marine La Mer

17 224-466 17 727-230 17 701-201 17 595-775 17 636-411

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

17 506-070 17 713-778 17 257-778 17 200-040 17 506-070 17 587-828 17 241-111 17 131-414 17 178-084 17 243-115 17 727-887 17 711-111 17 717-542 17 178-436 17 221-722 17 161-716

Eating Out listings

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

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themenights wednesday What: Asian Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel Eat all you can at this authentic Asian buffet for BD 9.5++.

E Call 17 360-000 What: Seafood Night Where: Al Wasmeyyah, Golden Tulip Sample the fresh catch of the day and unlimited selected beverages.

E Call 17 535-000

sunday

tuesday

What: Masala Mahal Where: Saraya, Sofitel This trip down the spice route serves some fine Indian dishes.

E Call 17 636-363.

What: Discover Asia Buffet Where: Silk's, Mövenpick Hotel Authentic cuisine with unlimited wine and beer at BD19++.

E Call 17 460-000

What: Indian Tandoori Night Where: Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Tantalising fare dished out from the Indian-style clay oven.

E Call 17 713-000.

What: Lebanese Arabian Buffet Where: Kenza, The K Hotel A slice of Lebanon served in traditional settings at BD8.

E Call 17 360-000

What: Pizza Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel An all-you-can-eat deal on pizzas with soft drinks for BD4.

E Call 17 360-000

What: Pasta Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel Variety of pasta in sauces of your choice with soft drinks at BD4++.

E Call 17 360-000

What: Tex-Mex Night Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Authentic Mexican flavours for only BD12++.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Meat & Fish Where: Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency A five-course gourmet dinner with selected wines for BD 22++.

E Call 17 227-777.

What: Italian Aperitivo Buffet Where: Mondo, Diplomat Radisson Blu A classic Italian buffet with live entertainment for BD10++.

E Call 17 531-666.

What: Surf and Turf Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Enjoy your favourite seafood and meaty delights for BD12++.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Butcher Shop Night Where: Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Prime cuts of meat prepared on live cooking stations for BD13++.

E Call 17 713-000.

What: Seafood Buffet Where: Al Noor Tent, Elite Resort & Spa An elaborate seafood buffet with the paellas as star attraction.

E Call 17 373-333.

What: Steak Night Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Offering some of the best cuts straight off the grill.

E Call 17 531-122.

thursday What: Thursday Night Brunch Where: Silk’s, Mövenpick Hotel A quirky affair that serves brunch favourites for dinner.

E Call 17 460-000.

What: Hot Grill Night Where: H2O, Elite Grande Hotel Enjoy fresh food from live barbecue stations.

E Call 17 565-888.

What: Del Mare Buffet Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel An extensive seafood buffet at BD12++ with soft drinks.

E Call 17 360-000.

What: Arabian Night Where: Selections, InterContinental Regency Authentic dishes and sheesha with live cooking stations.

E Call 17 227-777.

What: Beef Eater’s Grill Where: Al Wasmeyyah, Golden Tulip A char-grill experience with a choice of selected prime cuts.

E Call 17 535-000 What: Seafood Night Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza The day’s catch at BD21.950 with selected drinks.

E Call 17 531-122.

saturday What: Catch of the Day Where: H2O, Elite Grande Hotel All you can eat seafood fiesta for BD10 including shisha.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Flavours of Arabia Where: Saraya, Sofitel Offering a number of authentic Arabian dishes for BD18 per person.

E Call 17 636-363

friday

monday

What: Sizzler Night Where: Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Enjoy sizzling treats offered in an unlimited buffet.

E Call 17 713-000.

What: Vegetarian Thali Where: Golden Peacock, Mirador Hotel A selection of vegetarian dishes as a complete meal for BD2.9.

E Call 17 312-000.

What: Lebanese Arabian Buffet Where: Kenza, The K Hotel A slice of Lebanon served in traditional settings at BD8.

E Call 17 360-000

What: Vegetarian Thali Where: Golden Peacock, Mirador Hotel A selection of vegetarian dishes as a complete meal for BD2.9.

E Call 17 312-000.

What: The Commons Where: Klouds, The K Hotel Gourmet kebabs and shawarma for BD4++ with soft drinks.

E Call 17 360-000.

What: Monday Pasta Night Where: Fiamma, Sofitel Enjoy your favourite pastas and create your own special sauce.

E Call 17 636-363.

What: BBQ & Salad Buffet Where: Klouds, The K Hotel The buffet offers a wide selection of BBQ dishes & Salad for BD4.

E Call 17 360-000 What: Mussels Promotion Where: Camelot Here’s a dinner of unlimited ‘moules et frites’ for BD14 per person.

E Call 17 717-745

February 2014 133

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afterdarkthismonth When? February 7-9 | Event? Salsa workshop | Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel

It’s All Happening!

A fairly recent addition to Bahrain’s nightlife picture, this venue offers many new events for the island’s partygoers to look forward to.

Are you searching for an exciting, new activity to enjoy within the city? Check out the salsa workshop at Ibrida, the nightclub at Ramee Grand Hotel in Seef. The Eighth Amante de la Salsa is a great event to learn some cool moves and meet fun people. Forget about bringing a partner or years of experience.

This is your chance to prove that there’s no such thing as two left feet.

The eighth edition of this dance workshop that is all the rage amongst Bahrain’s partygoers kicks off on February 7. Don’t miss out on the pre-party on this Friday night. The bash extends to the next night with classes from 7.30pm-9pm. Tickets for early booking are limited, so dial their number right away to reserve your spot in the performance.

An event designed for those who can’t control themselves when they hear Latino hits, Amante de la Salsa is a night of unlimited fun. Dance to the beats until midnight and stay back to enjoy the show. The entry fee of BD5 is inclusive of a soft drink.

The party shifts to Casa Bar at Mercure Grand Hotel Seef for the closing of the event. Take part in the one-hour session from 8pm-9pm and practise your moves until midnight. Get your passes at BD5, inclusive of a beverage and snacks.

Also this month

Esteban Isnardi makes an appearance. He was an elected member of the subcommittee of the International Dance Organisation for Latin-Caribbean dances from 2005 to 2012. He was the judge at several world championships and winner of many coveted titles in his decades-long tenure with dance.

Oli Rizo is another professional artist who will offer her advice to the participants. Her knowledge of salsa, classical ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop and Afro-Cuban dance styles are the reason why everyone is enthralled with Oli Rizo wherever she shows up.

With such an amazing line-up, you will leave the venue as a salsa expert. Make sure you stick around for the best part of the night to practise what you learned, mingle and enjoy the party at Ibrida and Casa Bar! New faces Ibrida present its newest name in live entertainment — OvaLoad! Full of energy and great talent, this band will rock the stage for the next three months (or more). Founded in 2012

by Oba Hyacienth, Ovaload is all about raw talent. Do not expect sequences or background vocals. Performing six nights a week, this septet gives Ibrida’s audience their 100 percent effort to make every party memorable. Don’t forget the only rule at this nightclub — dress to impress.

E Call 39 633-800 or e-mail salsabor.bahrain@gmail.com.

When? February 1-28 Event? Food promotion Venue? An Nada Lounge, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Host your own private wine tasting and try their Japanese maki rolls.

E Call 17 533-533.

When? February 7 Event? Live entertainment Venue? Amwaj Marina Filipino bands across the island host a jamming session in Amwaj Islands.

E Call 32 200-760 or 32 076-604.

When? February 7-8 Event? Dance workshop Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel Seef The eighth edition of Amante de la Salsa promises an exciting line-up.

E Call 39 633-800 or e-mail salsabor.bahrain@gmail.com.

When? February 9 Event? Dance workshop Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand Seef Hotel The salsa workshop winds up with a finale party; show off some moves!

E Call 39 633-800 or e-mail salsabor.bahrain@gmail.com.

When? February 21-27 Event? Wine tasting Venue? Tapas Bar, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Exotic wines from the USA, delectable cheeses and gourmet canapés — hurry!

E Call 17 636-363.

136 x Happenings - 137 x Valentine’s Calendar - 139 x Theme Nights

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Party All Night Know all the words to a Pitbull song? This month you can find out where that proves to be a real skill.

Okan Yasin

Okan Yasin is known for his tribute acts to Pitbull. The cover show will be held on February 27 at The Warbler at Ramee Baisan International and on February 28 at Club Buffalo at Ramee California Hotel. The live performance will last 90 minutes, complete with an MC and dancers.

Tapas Bar at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa invites you to an evening of exotic wine from the USA. Enjoy gourmet canapés and delectable cheeses while listening to Christian and Antonia perform live. Visit the unique venue between February 21 and 27 from 8-10pm for this wine tasting event.

New sounds Ovaload is set to the rock the stage at Ibrida, a popular nightspot in the Kingdom, located at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa in Seef.

The seven-member band, founded in 2012 by lead singer Oba Hyacienth, will join resident DJ Johnny Bailo six nights a week.

Are you ready to dance? The venue plays hosts to three nights of non-stop salsa, from February 7-9.

Innovation is a new seven-piece Filipino band playing at An Nada Lounge at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel.

They perform from 8.15pm to 12.45am daily, except Saturdays. Explore new wines or try an old favourite every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 6-7pm; compare two 50ml bottles for BD2.500 at Sheraton Social Hour.

Japanese maki rolls are on offer throughout February at the lounge.

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Ibrida New Year's Eve Party Ibrida, Bahrain’s most sophisticated new nightlife venue at the Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa, Seef held a rocking New Year's Eve party and featured Snap!, one of the biggest groups of the nineties, to give guests a New Year’s party to remember

Salvatore, Nicolas, Deepak & Abdella with the singer from Snap!

Isaac, Kate, Anna & Joun

Tariq & Sharne

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Andrea, Anson, Jovila & Melisa

Mr & Mrs O'Leary, Suryono, Hani & Jannifer

Stella, Mariana & Anotoraj

Snap! rocking the house

Tariq & friends

Arthur & Rita

Warren & Salvatore

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It’s a Dance Off! February 2014

Club Buffalo

Club F1

Single on Valentine’s Day? Perfect! Join DJ Trixta and InTempo at this Wild West-themed saloon for the Cupid’s Playground party.

Start celebrating the day of love on February 13 with the pre-Valentine party at this nightspot. Resident Girlz Ink and DJ Ryan provide live entertainment for the night.

(38 381-641)

(36 131-020)

Metropolitan Hotel

Ramee California Hotel

Club Enigma (36 289-362)

Spend Valentine’s Day on the dance floor with a loved one or treat your date to the three-course dinner. Couples can win amazing prizes for the best dance!

Windsor Tower

Amber Bar

The Hub

The lounge features an exotic platter combination for two complemented by a glass of house wine for BD18 per couple.

This new ‘desi’ lounge celebrates Valentine’s Day a week in advance.

Tickets are BD7 for couples on pre-sale and BD10 at the door.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Ramee Monroe Hotel

(17 636-363)

www.bahrainthismonth.com

(36 717-109 or 38 818-889)

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Dune Band

RAMEE GROUP OF HOTELS

Cupid’s Guest List Stepping out to party on the most romantic day of the year gets even better with the line-up of gigs at these city hotspots. The dress code, of course, is to wear your heart on your sleeve.

138 February 2014

Start your Valentine’s Day celebrations a day in advance at Club F1, at the Metropolitan Hotel. Setting up the mood is in-house band Girlz Ink, kick-starting the evening with romantic tunes. As the night progresses DJ Ryan heats up the space with his electrifying mixes. This ‘Love on Top’ party includes a three-course menu, special cocktails from the bar and number of fun games and surprises. E Call 38 381-641.

Creating a magical Valentine’s night is Club Enigma with its intimate atmosphere and pulsating action. The club’s party floor beckons everyone in love as its multitalented new band and DJ entertain you through to the early hours of the morning.

A bottle of sparkling wine and a culinary surprise awaits you on your table, keeping your spirits high from the moment you arrive.

There are loads of takeaway gifts and prizes for the best couple dance winners and a best costume contest. E Call 36 289-362.

The western ambience of this club softens up and becomes ‘Cupid’s Playground’ for a romantic dinner-and-dance date.

Club Buffalo, at the Ramee California Hotel, offers a delightful night for all those in love and those looking for love. Couples enjoy a lavish buffet for BD10 or BD16 inclusive of a complementary beverage. An unlimited beverage offer is available at BD20 per person.

The entertainment is taken care of by in-house band Intempo and DJ Trixta, who will keep you dancing all night. They aren’t strict on the dress code; however, would they love to see you in red, white or black? E Call 33 142-651.

Play Time Band

The oldest British-themed pub and bar on the island, The Warbler, is all prepared to bring you some great entertainment starting from this month. Known for its extensive bar menu, international cuisine and live sports coverage on big screens, the venue is also a hub for pool and darts fans, and boasts a large dance floor.

A mix of talented musicians from Bulgaria and the West Indies, the new band — Dune — can hardly wait to rock the island after playing to packed houses in Canada, Dubai, Malaysia, China, Korea, Bangkok and many other places around the world.

The band offers its unique touch to any song it covers and with a wide range of material like pop, disco, Latino, R&B, rock, reggae soul, hip-hop, funk and techno, it has something for everybody.

For V-day, the band has put together a playlist of romantic tunes as you enjoy an evening filled with couples’ contests, surprises and gift vouchers. E Call 38 381-631.

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themenights sunday What: Sports & Shots Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan A single shot goes a long way here. Unlimited drinks for BD9.9.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: FBI Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza For those in hospitality industry, the menu is offered at half price.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Quiz Night Where: JJ’s Irish Pub & Restaurant Take part in the famous JJ’s quiz and win prizes for each round.

E Call 17 742-323.

What: Hop Fest Where: Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden Unlimited brews and a lavish buffet at BD9++ from 7 to 10 pm.

E Call 39 159-912.

What: Grape Fest Where: Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden Grape tasting with cheese and vegies for BD8.5++ from 7-10 pm.

E Call 39 159-912.

What: Microphone Madness Where: JJ’s Irish Pub and Restaurant One of island’s popular theme nights; free shot for every singer.

E Call 17 742-323.

What: Live-Oke Where: Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Here’s your chance to sing with the band live on stage.

E Call 39 046-715

tuesday What: Candy Night Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Dine in a candy shop! Colours pop in the decor and on plates.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Jam Nights Where: Downtown, InterContinental Regency Jam with the band and receive a free drink.

E Call 17 227-777

What: Boys Night Out Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Enjoy a 20 percent off on Bullfrog and bucket beer for BD9.9.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Spiritual Sundays Where: Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Enjoy a fun-filled evening with special offers on all house spirits.

E Call 39 046-715

What: Cocktail Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Happy hours continue; buy one get one free offer on all drinks.

E Call 17 531-122.

t

What: Games Night Where: Kicks, Hotel Diva Pool, darts, board games and extended happy hours.

E Call 39 922-583.

monday

What: Nostalgic Night Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Not only music makes you nostalgic but the reduced prices too.

E Call 38 381-631.

wednesday

What: Becks Jam Nite Where: Club Buffalo, Ramee California Rock out on stage with the band and get a free Becks pint.

E Call 17 826-001.

What: Drink and Sing Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Free drinks for the best voice in this multilingual Karaoke Night E Call 36 020-750.

What: Sushi Night Where: Muju, The Dragon Sushi platter with unlimited select beverages at BD14.

E Call 16 033-833.

What: Pint and Jam Night Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Jam with the in-house band and enjoy four pints of beer @ BD9.9.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Paellas Night Where: Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa Sea Food and Paellas made from freshest ingredients and rice.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Premium Promo Where: Club Buffalo, Ramee California Enjoy a selection of premium spirits and mixers for BD2.

E Call 33 731-000.

What: Karaoke Nights Where: Shift 7, Elite Resort & Spa Sing the night away while pouring drinks with your close mates.

E Call 17 313-000.

What: 4 Pint Pitcher Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Quench your thirst with discounts on all pitchers at the bar.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Karaoke Night Where: Corners, The Dragon Resort Partake in the growing madness around the mic with each drink.

E Call 16 031-113.

What: Karaoke Night Where: Champions Lounge, The K Hotel Enjoy a game of darts and pool or even sing your favourite song.

E Call 36 249-807.

What: Quiz & Curry Night Where: Kicks, Hotel Diva Join the fun as you test your GK and enjoy some hot Indian curries.

E Call 39 922-583.

saturday

What: Brainiac's Fun Quiz Night Where: Corners, The Dragon Resort Fun-filled trivia quiz with prizes galore — free entry.

E Call 16 031-113.

thursday What: Hot Grill Night Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Live barbecue stations dish out a wide buffet of tantalising treats.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Steak Night Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Order your favourite prime cuts and get a pint of beer free.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Thursday Night Grills Where: Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa A meat bazaar with marinades of your choice for BD12.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Retro Night Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Resort & Spa Sway to some classic tunes as you drink in some retro magic.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Sports & Shots & Warbler Nightingale Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Get a bucket beer for BD9.9 with nightlong Karaoke.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Karaoke Nights Where: Shift 7, Elite Resort & Spa Sing the night away with your buddies and smashing cocktails.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Cocktail Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Continuing happy hours; get buyone-get-one-free on all drinks.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Chill Out Saturday Where: Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa Enjoy soothing music and BBQ preparations by the pool.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Jazz Night Where: Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden An evening of acoustic jazz with the in-house band True Blue.

E Call 17 710-338.

What: Hoteliers’ Night Where: Downtown, InterContinental Regency Flash your card for a discount if part of the hospitality industry.

E Call 17 227-777.

What: Karaoke Night Where: Kicks, Hotel Diva Start the weekend with a spirited singalong with friends.

E Call 39 922-583.

friday What: Drink and Sing Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Resort & Spa Free drinks for the best voice in this multilingual Karaoke Night.

E Call 36 020-750.

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Nissan Patrol Launch Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, sole distributors for Nissan vehicles in the kingdom held a launch event for the 2014 Nissan Patrol. The vehicle was launched on the sidelines of the Bahrain International Air Show, Sakhir Airbase last month

Farouk Almoayyed & Paul Baker with the new Nissan Patrol

Farouk Almoayyed, Chairman, Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons

Hussain Hawaj, Dima, Rohit Kapur, Sayed Jameel, Husain Mahmood & Salman Sharif

Cameron & Peter

K Hotel Christmas Brunch The K Hotel in Juffair played host to a number of guests who enjoyed the scrumptious Christmas Brunch. Santa was on hand much to the delight of the kids present

Bilal, Hameed, Santa, Hussain & Abdulrahman

Alizel, Santa & Deb

A guest with Santa

Adam & Anett

Ahmed & Hussain with Santa

Ms Kimam with Santa

Abdulla & Santa

Faces This Month From nightclubs, and New Year Eve parties, to private dinners, our photographers were in the midst of it all, capturing all the action last month

Sam, Sandra & Nigel

140 February 2014

Anne, George, Dr Puja, Sarab, Anna & Professor Emmerson

John & Tanya

Ray & Marlou

Dogukan & Ulusay

Astrid & Gerd

Dr Puja & Sarab unwinding at Lanterns

Nina & Malte

Brian & Heather

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What’s New Ardent hues

Edited by Maryam Toorani

L’Occitane gathers the scent of cherry tree petals to capture them in a new fragrance for women. The freshness hovers over a sensual base of olive wood and musk, enhancing the sweet heart notes of the scent.

Available at L’Occitane.

Lip treatment Bassam Fattouh has created an innovative slim lip colour that combines the creamy texture of a lipstick with the glorious shine and fluidity of a lip-gloss. Twinkly’s springinspired bold shades boast a natural finish.

Available at Bassam Fattouh.

Minimal effort chic Michael Kors’ new jewellery collection features pieces that can transform a simple outfit to one that makes a statement. Whether it is a bangle, ring or necklace, this line is trendy without being over the top.

Available at A La Mode.

Fusing luxury with tradition Print on the go Wouldn’t it be great if we could print our pictures as we take them on our phones? Well, thanks to LG, it’s now possible! The Pocket Photo 2.0 smart mobile printer enables users to print customised pictures from tablets and smartphones.

Available at leading outlets.

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Aigner, the foremost German cult brand for stylish living, launches the Aigner Ghutra, the authentic Arab headdress.

Featuring the unmistakable horseshoe logo of the brand they are available in pure white and the iconic red and white chequered Shemagh. Available at Aigner.

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Valentine’s Day Gift Guide Special edition

Edited by Elma Bartholomew

The House of Amouage’s special edition Jubilation XXV has top notes of rose and frankincense that fuse harmoniously with bold ingredients such as coriander, blackberry, orange and davana.

Available at Amouage.

A girl’s best friend Lifestyle Fine Jewellery has many remarkable collections like the Coronet Solitaire. If you’re looking for something different, check out the Miki Pearls line that combines pearls, diamonds and gold.

Available at Lifestyle Fine Jewellery.

A hint of romance Chopard plays cupid this month with a selection of gifts for him and her. The range of accessories includes necklaces, cufflinks, rings and pens. Choose what best suits your significant other from this luxury brand.

Available at Chopard.

Garden of roses

PS I love you

Byredo has launched the Burning Rose, a limited edition scented candle. These striped candles diffuse rose petals at the onset [DASH] a fusion of rose absolute, violet and leather in the heart [DASH] and settle on a base of woody birch and ebony.

Available at Paris Gallery.

For Valentine’s Day, Jaeger-LeCoultre dresses its Rendez-Vous watch in a new patent leather strap with a secret in the shape of a dedicated inside pocket serving to hold a message. Discover a personalised hand-written message from your special one.

Available at Jaeger-LeCoultre.

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MCDONALD’S

Treasure the Memory Mcdonald’s Bahrain offers your children a chance to hold the hand of a football icon as he steps out onto the field with the Player Escort Program.

You probably fell in love with the game when you took your first shot, ran after the ball that was much larger than your tiny feet at the time, and when you first felt the excitement of scoring a goal. Football fans grow up longing to score like one star and bending it like another.

They have watched the world’s best players make history and many have rushed to imitate them in gardens and neighbourhood streets, where they imagined millions of fans roaring in support. During the anticipated World Cup games, people watch closely as their favourite football stars walk out of the tunnels and onto the field, holding the hands of children taking proud steps next to their sports idols. And fans think to themselves: I wish I could be there!

McDonald’s Bahrain presents the Kingdom’s junior football fans with this opportunity through its Player Escort Program. In partnership with the Bahrain Football Association, children of ages between six and 10 years will compete based on skill, sportsmanship and academic performance for a chance to represent Bahrain in Brazil during the World Cup this summer.

McDonald’s has been an official sponsor of the FIFA World Cup since 1994 and continues to encourage customers to maintain an active lifestyle. The Bahrain division of the global brand looks forward to launch this season’s programme, where the lucky winner will be discovered.

The victor will win a four-day all-expenses-paid trip to Brazil accompanied by a parent, where they will enjoy the Brazilian culture, take in the country’s breathtaking sights and, most importantly, escort their FIFA World Cup heroes onto the field! E Visit www.mcdonaldsarabia.com.

WHEN YOU BUY A

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ASIA JEWELLERS

In Time Like a Marine This timepiece, intended for those with a flair for adventure, has been given a facelift that makes it the symbol of luxury.

144 February 2014

Never before has a watchmaker so perfectly fulfilled the frequent traveller’s desire for comfort. Born from one of Ulysse Nardin’s iconic collections, the Marine, the Dual Time Manufacture is a significant milestone in the history of contemporary watchmaking. It was the first watch that allowed you to adjust the second time zone forward as well as backward.

Today this incredible timepiece returns equipped with an automatic movement that has been developed, designed and manufactured entirely in-house.

Endowed with a big date double-window display, also adjustable in both directions, the watch boasts a silicon escapement. This feature marks the height of watchmaking technology that very few brands are able to master.

Independence through innovation This model is one of the easiest watches to read and adjust. While the ‘home time’ indicator advances steadily over 24 hours in an aperture at nine o’clock, the small hand can easily be aligned with local time, either forward or backward. This is achieved simply by pressing the ‘+’ or ‘-’ pushers positioned at 10 o’clock and eight o’clock, without having to remove the watch or interrupting its timekeeping. The ultimate in mechanical refinement, the calendar function automatically synchronises with adjustments made in either direction.

The bold modernity of this outstanding timepiece is complemented by a few classic touches, offering an air of casual elegance. This chameleon-like piece is equally suited for both a day in town and an important occasion. E Call 17 535-344.

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ASIA JEWELLERS

Watchmaking Precision Nothing says luxury like a classic, elegant watch. If you are looking for the perfect gift for your special someone, check out these two limited edition pieces.

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The two new special editions from Officine Panerai — Radiomir 1940 Chrono Monopulsante 8 Days GMT Oro Rosso and the Oro Bianco — make a perfect Valentine’s gift, especially if your loved one appreciates the art of watchmaking.

The names of the models reveal several characteristics which make them noteworthy. The Radiomir 1940 evokes a period in the brand’s history when the case was evolving into the famed Luminor 1950. Relaunched by the brand in 2012, the case is now a representation of the historic models. It is strong and functional, embodying simplicity and elegance.

With two counters and a central seconds hand, the chronograph has a single button at eight o’clock which controls the start, stop and reset functions. It has a vertical clutch and column wheel, the latter being fully visible from the back of the movement, through the sapphire window set in the case back.

The sophisticated finish and other technical details of the movement can also be seen through the back of the watch.

The two models differ from each other not only in material from which the case is made, but also in the colour and design of the dial. In the red gold version, the brown dial with a satiné

soleil finish has large figures and bar hour markers, which are classic features of the Panerai design.

The white gold version has a black dial, also with a satiné soleil finish, but with minimalist graphics, without figures and with bar and dot hour markers. The straps are available in brown alligator with an adjustable buckle made of the same material as the case. Both models are 5ATM water-resistant.

E Call 17 535-344.

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SHARIF GROUP

Keep Good Time Authentic design and high quality are central features of a watch. When a brand wisely puts them together, the result is a timeless piece.

The Italian fashion line Ferre Milano has it all. As a world premiere, the brand has launched its first range of Swiss-made watches. Inspired by the Italian lifestyle, these timepieces feature flawless design in 88 distinct styles.

You can opt for stainless steel, rose gold or yellow gold casing. Its genuine leather straps and steel and gold-plated bracelets add sophistication to a look.

Each timepiece boasts iconic elements of the brand, such as the Ferre ‘F’ logo, the crocodile pattern and technical details that boast the brand’s emphasis on perfection. This unique line reinforces the fact that elegance is a matter of choice. Fans of fashion and timepieces can now shop for these exquisite wristwatches at A La Mode.

E Call 17 179-854 (Bahrain City Centre) or 17 581-588 (Seef Mall).

146 February 2014

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AL ZAIN JEWELLERS

A Girl’s Best Friend The journey of life begins with love and there is no better time to embrace each other than the month of romance.

This year, make Valentine’s Day one to remember with an unforgettable gesture. Whether you’re looking for a special gift for the one you love or to spoil your friends and family, you’ll find the perfect item at Al Zain Jewellers.

Ask any woman and they will tell you nothing says ‘I appreciate you’ quite like precious stones. Show your loved ones how much you care by surprising them with a unique piece from the brand’s new range.

The Valentine collection features exquisite pendants, earrings, rings and bracelets set with stunning heart-shaped rubies surrounded by sparkling diamonds. All the pieces are set in 18 karat white gold.

All in the details Rubies have been synonymous with love for generations. In this unique line, the stone is beautifully paired with the timeless symbol of romance and commitment — the diamond.

Al Zain has taken these classic icons of love and created beautiful contemporary designs that have been handcrafted by skilled artisans.

E Call 17 582-232.

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ELITE SEEF RESIDENCE & HOTEL

Kids’ Day Out Are your kids feeling bored at home on Fridays? Wake up to a wonderful sunny day and celebrate Friday with a fun and exciting brunch experience.

Treat the whole family to the Oasis at The Elite Seef Residence & Hotel and discover one of the best Friday brunches on the island. Indulge in a delicious international buffet featuring a selection of starters, main courses and mouth-watering desserts from noon to 4pm.

The four-star hotel has got it all planned for your next weekend out with the family. You no longer need to worry about your kids feeling out of place or left out at brunch. Elite Seef’s Kids Club is designed to offer young kids all the entertainment they could possibly wish for.

The club keeps your children busy all afternoon with enjoyable activities while you catch up with your friends and family. Arts and crafts projects, a play area, X-box gaming consoles, TV rooms and a mini library are all available for the little ones.

In addition, an energetic team of friendly staff will entertain children outdoors with a host of activities, including face painting, a bouncy castle, various games, balloon twisting, a magic show and the chance to meet two Disney characters.

Make sure you mark your calendars for every Friday of the month and gather up for a brunch that the whole family will not forget.

Give your children the space to make new friends and have a blast on the weekend at The Elite Seef Residence & Hotel.

E Call 17 583-388.

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DESSANGE

DESSANGE paris

HIIT — It! Skyrocket your cardio regimen with the highintensity interval training (HIIT) programmes offered at this health club.

Dessange now features an exciting and innovative fitness class. It kicks your body’s repair cycle into hyperdrive, and burns more fat and calories in the 24 hours after a workout than you do after a steady-pace run.

HIIT describes any workout that alternates between intense bursts of activity and fixed periods of less-intense activity or even complete rest. The super-efficient workout is ideal for those with a busy schedule. Whether you want to squeeze in a workout during your lunch break or get in shape for a fastapproaching event, this programme is the way to go.

Optimum fitness HIIT burns calories, tones muscles, improves speed, stamina and lung capacity and greatly strengthens your cardiovascular system — all in short, highly intensive yet hugely rewarding sessions. These sessions are more effective and efficient than many other endurance and cardiovascular classes, helping you achieve a great level of fitness in a comparatively short period of time.

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HIIT helps to supercharge your metabolism. Studies have shown that just 150 seconds of intense exercise can boost your resting metabolic rate, meaning that you continue to burn calories up to 24 hours after the class has finished. This means that HIIT classes not only help you lose weight, they can also help you to keep the weight off.

This training programme can boost your brain oxygenation, noticeably enhancing your powers of focus and concentration.

A Canadian study found that just two HIIT workouts a week for four months significantly improved the cognitive skills of its participants. Stop thinking about it; take up the challenge and take your fitness to the next level — only at Dessange!

E Call 17 713-999.

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marketplace CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL BAHRAIN

A Perfect Rest

A guarantee of a great night’s rest is a big claim, but this five-star hotel seems to have all the boxes ticked for the perfect sleep.

MULTINATIONAL SCHOOL BAHRAIN

A school that has been creating a lot of buzz since its opening in the Kingdom appoints a new principal, who plans for a bigger and better future.

Building Character

150 February 2014

Having recently renovated its entire south wing of 138 rooms and suites, the Crown Plaza Hotel Bahrain has invested heavily in ensuring that guests enjoy not just the facilities and dining options, but also the perfect night’s rest.

Focusing on the niche of business travellers, the hotel has not simply renovated its rooms into modern, attractive and extremely livable environments but has focused on what guests need the most.

Foremost amongst these is connectivity to the outside world inside the hotel room. Desk ‘hubs’ offer multi-outlet power and HDMI and USB compatibility situated at eye view above the tables for easy access. Connector cables are a phone call away and Wi-Fi is available hotel-wide for convenience; moreover, long hours of work are stress-free on a Herman Miller, ergonomically designed chair.

With work completed, time zones mean little with blackout blinds ensuring sleep is possible at any time of the day. There’s also topof-the-range mattresses, top-quality linen and a pillow menu. You can’t escape sleep thanks to the Crowne Plaza’s ‘sleep advantage kit’, including an aromatherapy pillow spray and inhaler.

Offered every amenity you can imagine, the rested traveller will also enjoy the revamped bathrooms featuring large showers, with rain-shower shower heads and temperature controlled water. In addition there is a new massage room for weary travellers. E Call 17 531-122.

Committed to excellence in everything they do, Multinational School Bahrain’s (MNSB’s) philosophy on education is to develop a love of learning in every child.

“If children are switched on to life through sports, music, drama or arts, they will be motivated to learn in class. We know that children learn best when they are actively engaged in lessons, having to think and being creative, rather than learning by rote and cramming for endless tests,” says David Tansey, newly appointed principal of MNSB. The school has well-developed plans for a bigger future.

Classes for children aged up to 14 years are scheduled for September 2014. This will be followed by classes for those up to 16 years and finally for those up to 18 years. MNSB will use the English IGCSE and A Levels in their senior years.

“The Romans had it right: a healthy mind in a healthy body.

Qualifications help people to get great jobs, and they are essential. But what makes people great in their jobs, and in their lives, is their character. We want to develop the whole child and turn out young people who have the knowledge, skills, understanding and values they need to thrive in and make sense of this rapidly changing world,” he continues.

David was a secondary head teacher in England for 10 years after which he had a stint as a consultant. For the last three years, he has been working as the vice principal of a large international school in Kuwait. E Call 35 524-172 or 34 364-444.

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From left to right: Mazen Sater - assistant general manager and head of retail banking BMI Bank, Jamal Al-Hazeem - CEO BMI Bank, Somu Roy - Market Manager — Bahrain MasterCard, and Rana AlMuaili - general manager Sinnad

BMI BANK

A New Approach In collaboration with MasterCard, this Bahraini retail and commercial banking institution has launched two new prepaid cards for its customers on the island.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Available to both existing and new customers across BMI Bank’s retail branch network within the country, a generic multipurpose prepaid card and an Internet prepaid card have been designed in partnership with MasterCard. The multipurpose prepaid card can be used for purchases both locally and internationally on point of sale machines, to pay utility bills online as well as to withdraw cash from ATMs which feature the MasterCard logo. The Internet prepaid card is designed specifically for online purchases, offering customers added safety and security.

Intended to meet customers’ unique requirements, these can be topped up at the bank’s branches or by depositing cash at the bank’s special cash deposit ATMs. Customers will be able to utilise the bank’s award-winning e-banking and phone banking channels.

“We are pleased to partner MasterCard, a global financial services brand, to launch this avant garde suite of cards, which is a considerable leap forward and a key milestone in our efforts to bring world-class products and services to our customers,” says Jamal Al-Hazeem, chief executive officer of BMI Bank. “The reloadable cards are an extremely versatile payment tool and provide our customers with the benefit of cashless transactions with an easy-to-use, transparent, safe, secure and widely accepted product.”

BMI Bank is committed to develop products and services that help consumers take their first step towards a smarter and convenient way to spend and manage money. The prepaid card system promotes a cashless environment, offering a financial freedom that everyone aspires to.

“Developing customised prepaid solutions is one of our key strengths and we are excited about our engagement with BMI Bank as consumers across Bahrain will now have yet another

opportunity to experience our innovative payment solutions,” says Somu Roy, market manage r— Bahrain, MasterCard.

This collaboration is an example of the companies’ capabilities to work with industry leaders to develop unique payment solutions that offer consumers a convenient, flexible and secure option for conducting payment transactions.

The cards will be powered by Sinnad’s PCMS Platform (Prepaid Card Management System). Besides the added benefits of safety, free SMS alerts, semi-annual statements and electronic or online payments, there are no credit checks or hidden charges with the prepaid card.

Designed as a multipurpose card, the chip-enabled general prepaid card can be used to give as a gift or simply as a cash replacement tool when travelling abroad. The Internet card can be used exclusively to conduct online transactions. Likewise, existing credit card customers can benefit from the Internet card to make online transactions and avoid fraud risk on their high limits.

Consumers can load both the cards with the value of their required transactions only. The Internet card however cannot be accessed for ATM cash withdrawal or POS transactions. The prepaid card also limits the user’s spending by only allowing the amount of money previously deposited on the card to be used, giving the cardholder full control over his or her expenses.

Featuring one of the lowest foreign exchange rates in the market, free customer support and straightforward ‘single fee’ pricing as well as an elegant design, the prepaid cards are designed to deliver a great user experience and are being offered as a viable alternative to mainstream bank accounts.

E Call 17 508-080 or visit www.bmibank.com.bh.

February 2014 151

marketplace AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

Destination Romance

If you want to take your Valentine’s Day experience beyond sweet nothings, here’s a luxury resort that promises to make each moment memorable.

JUNAID FOR PERFUMES

A leader among the region’s perfumeries continues to shine with the launch of a brand-new fragrance.

If you want to take your Valentine’s Day experience beyond sweet nothings, here’s a luxury resort that promises to make each moment memorable.

Perfect Melody

Al Areen Palace & Spa rolls out the red carpet as it welcomes you to its plush environment for the Valentine’s Day weekend with romantic getaway packages. A royal or desert pool villa awaits you along with a dinner under the stars and pampering session in its award-winning spa.

This all-inclusive overnight package starts with you being ushered to your accommodation amid rose petals, exquisite chocolates and glowing candles. The hotel offers a delectable selection of six-course gourmet meals at any of the hotel’s three restaurants — Rimal, Keizo or Saffron Al Areen.

Alternatively, celebrate under the stars in your villa with an intimate affair in the enchanting garden, where musicians fill the air with delightful melodies.

In addition to this, you and your loved one can enjoy a ‘Romantic Couples’ spa treatment. The 150 minutes of pampering starts with a sweet chocolate body scrub followed by the relaxing Essence of Earth massage and, finally, an exotic bath. For refreshments, enjoy some herbal tea and something from the tropical fruits platter.

The resort boasts 78 world-class pool villas in a single-storey setting, replete with modern amenities including a private swimming pool, jet-pool and steam room.

E Call 17 845-162 or email alareen@alareenpalaceandspa.

Reminiscent of spring, the latest creation from Junaid for Perfumes is here to entice you with its sweet fragrance.

Encompassing the perfect blend of aromas for the coming season, Hadeel incorporates a fruity balance of floral scents.

With violets, roses and jasmine underlined with the calmness of white musk, its lingering effect is felt in its fruity end note with a hint of vanilla.

Miles ahead Junaid for Perfumes has over the years redefined the meaning of traditional scents. Known to mix in contemporary notes with traditional scents, this perfumery has become a preferred place for those looking to stand out in a crowd. Its fragrances also make the perfect gifts for any occasion. The brand is a favourite not only with consumers in Bahrain, but around the region as well.

Founded in 1910, Junaid for Perfumes is headquartered in Bahrain with a retail and distribution department that is innovatively designed and equipped to produce the perfumery’s distinguished and unique products.

With a vigorous and diligent team, the company has succeeded in positioning and branding itself as a luxurious outlet. Today Junaid for Perfumes continues the family tradition of excellence, which has grown considerably over the past century.

E Call 17 737-007.

152 February 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Innovative Treatments Fibroids can have a major impact on a woman’s quality of life. Fortunately any size or type of fibroid can be treated through minimally invasive surgery.

What are fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, locally known as ‘aliaf’, are benign (noncancerous) growths/tumours in the uterus. They arise from the localisation in the uterus, and can reach a variety of sizes and can be found in any number.

According to several studies cited by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG), only about 0.002 to 0.003 percent of fibroids develop into cancer. Most of the time, they grow without causing any pain.

The condition is still among the most common reasons why hysterectomies are performed. Unfortunately, only a minority of surgeons are able to perform treatments through minimally invasively techniques, while sparing the uterus.

Symptoms and treatments Fibroids can cause heavier than normal bleeding during a woman’s period, pelvic and back pain, feeling of pressure and miscarriages. Although the symptoms can be diminished through medications, the growths themselves can only be removed surgically.

The surgical options are many, such as fibroid removal through hysterectomy. These depend on the age and preference of the patient. Minimally invasive surgical techniques, which include hysteroscopy and laparoscopy, should be considered by all patients.

The ACOG stated in their 2009 Practice Bulletin that laparoscopic fibroid removal minimises the size of the abdominal incision. This results in quicker postoperative recovery compared to open surgery in addition to less bleeding during the procedure. In the hands of an expert surgeon, any size or type of fibroid can be treated with minimally invasive, organ-sparing techniques.

Trained in Germany, Dr Murat Koc is an obstetrics and gynaecology specialist and gynaecological oncology consultant.

He is also a specialist in advanced minimally invasive gynaecology and breast cancer treatments.

A certified sub-specialist in the treatment of women’s cancers, Dr Murat provides surgical treatment for complex benign conditions. He is known for his development of minimally invasive surgical treatments, which have allowed increasingly complex procedures to be done without a major incision.

These include radical pelvic surgeries for ovarian, cervical and endometrial cancers; treatments for endometriosis and pelvic masses; and hysterectomy with successful laparoscopic procedures.

Dr Murat Koc

www.bahrainthismonth.com

E Call 17 812-000.

February 2014 153

marketplace INTERCOL

Canon is a name that is synonymous with some of the best camera-related advancements in the market today. The pioneering brand extends its reach beyond the field of photography; it is now a global leader in office automation and imaging technologies as well.

Since its beginning as a Japan-based company, Canon has proven itself to be one of the premier sources of innovation in professional digital imaging and imaging solutions, and in office equipment.

The brand delivers high image quality with high precision and speed. Its products include office multifunction devices, laser printers, document solutions, digital production printing systems, facsimile machines and cloud-based document services, all with Canon global services.

Here in the Kingdom, International Agencies Company Ltd (Intercol) is a business partner of Canon and is fully equipped to market, support and service all of the brand’s products through its state-of-the-art service centre at Mina Salman.

Canon’s office automation product range includes all kinds of office print and copy solutions.

Consumers are spoilt for choice with a selection of multifunctional printers to inkjet, laser, compact and professional photo printers. The company also offers flatbed, high-speed document and cheque scanners in addition to laser fax, large format solutions and several types of projectors.

Working Solutions Are you looking to upgrade or improve your office space? The only way to insure quality is to invest in a reliable brand.

E Call 17 727-177 or email canonsales@intercol.com.

bystanderthismonth

Mövenpick Hotel Raffle Draw The Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain held its festive season raffle draw to announce the winner of the round trip ticket to Zurich which was sponsored by Oman Air. The draw was held at the hotel's lobby gallery during its Thursday Night Brunch last month

Nizar & Alfred

Gloriant, Sumaya & Robert

Ruth & Alan

Joint promo with the Mövenpick Hotel & Oman Air

Charles, Sumaya & Maria

154 February 2014

Anastasia & Erik

Jennifer & Stuart

Said & Joanne

Jesse

Stelio & Cecile

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HOME ELECTRONICS

Give More; Spend Less The month of love is not only the time to show your friends and family how much you appreciate them; it’s also a time to treat yourself with a little something.

Everyone deserves the best on Valentine’s Day. This year, take the celebrations up a notch; buy yourself that gadget you’ve been eyeing for months. In the spirit of love and giving, Home Electronics has lined up some of its best and biggest promotions throughout the month.

“When it comes to televisions, bigger is always better.

That’s why we’ve put some of our ‘biggies’ on offer,” says floor manager Bernadette Lim-Dones. “We want to make sure that you can pamper yourself without creating a setback on your budget.”

Let’s not forget our loved ones. Home Electronics has made some special deals, which will run until February 12, on items that could be part of his or her wishlist. Get them products that will not only make them feel appreciated, but will also last them a lifetime.

‘For her’ items include watches at 40 percent discount, saveon deals on beauty care products like hair stylers, epilators, full-size massagers, Bluetooth speakers and colourful camcorders. ‘For him’ items include watches on ‘buy one get one free’ offers, sports headphones, capsule speakers, car stereos and tablets.

“You want the receiver to experience a ‘wow’ moment when they first set eyes on the gift. Though you have to keep your budget in mind, sometimes you might have to spend more than you want to. Our aim is to help you find a gift that says a lot to your loved one — but not to your bank account,” Bernadette adds.

E Call 17 878-888 or 33 314-288.

bystanderthismonth

Salsa Charity Show At Coral Bay A Charity Salsa and fashion show was held at the Coral Bay last month. All proceeds from the event will be donated to typhoon Haiyan victims in the Philippines

Nawal & Akram

Naveet & Noor

Noor, Jade, Angelica & Rachelle

Salsa dancers in action

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Oussama, Dalia & Imad

Erin, Bryce & Yannah

Lubna

Another couple Salsa dancing

Thamar & Shahrazad

Laila & Jama

Ana & Roberto

Eliana

Zaina

February 2014 155

quotes of the month

Connections are Everything

Edited by Dr Paul Balles All of us need other people in order to be well and thrive. We feel better just being around other people; we need close relationships in order to be happy.

“People can’t be just tied together. They have to connect.

Otherwise, they'll find themselves bound hand and foot.”

— Ai Yazawa “Friends are born, not made.”

— Henry Adams “Creativity is the power to connect the seemingly unconnected.”

— William Plomer “The wheel is come full circle.”

— William Shakespeare “Any fact becomes important when it's connected to another.”

— Umberto Eco, Foucault’s Pendulum “Live in fragments no longer. Only connect!”

— E.M. Forster, Howards End

“It really boils down to this: that all life is interrelated. We are all caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied together into a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one destiny, affects all indirectly.”

— Martin Luther King Jr

156 February 2014

“We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibres connect us with our fellow men.”

— Herman Melville “Do all things with love.”

— Og Mandino “We are like islands in the sea, separate on the surface but connected in the deep.”

— William James

www.bahrainthismonth.com

winwin

Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

AD SEEK

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.

1

2

3

What is the name of Patrick Schwerdtfeger’s book? ___________________________ Where is Bahrain International Garden Show being held? ___________________________ Which bank marks 25 years of its service in the Kingdom? ___________________________

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

Who got it right?

This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: Winner : Niza Mudin Second Place : Ma. Faustina Castillo Third Place : Leizyl Salboro

1.

Last month’s solutions 1. Commodore Keith Blount

4

Who is the new chef at Camelot Restaurant & Lounge? ___________________________

2. Al Aali Shopping Complex 3. Bahrain Arts Society 4. 17-22 January 5. Dilmun Club 6. Mercedes AMG range

5

6

7

8

9 10

What is the name of the new band at Ibrida? ___________________________

7. Rahim Omar

Which car has turned to the dark side? ___________________________

Ad Seek

Where can you find Michael Kors’ new jewellery collection? ___________________________ Where is Mohammed Omar Khalil’s exhibition taking place? ___________________________ What is our movie this month? ___________________________ Which camera is featured in the Downtime Gadgets page? ___________________________

8. Vapiano Restaurant 9. BBC iPlayer 10. MINI

2.

1. Baldinini/Moda Mall 2. Al Aali Shopping Complex 3. Hani Hotels 4. Almoayyed Motors

Name:

Address:

3.

Telephone:

Email:

cpr:

Entry deadline is February 15. The winner will be selected at random. Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

4.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

- Happy Valentine's Month -

February 2014 157

tarotscopethismonth

Aquarius

Jan 19 – Feb 20

Relationships are never easy things to negotiate, even at the best of times. One minute you think everything is going well and then, before you know it, a spanner in the works sends everything off course and onto a downward spiral. Many of you could be feeling a sense of melancholy, mainly because of the emotional pull of The Three of Cups in your reading, and if there are concerns within a marriage or partnership, then you should try to bring them out for discussion. The problem between many of you at this time is one of communication and only talking is likely to correct this so don’t continue to suffer in silence; get things out in the open where they can be tackled and solved. Somewhere in all of this there is a third party who has a bearing on how matters will unfold.

Card of the Month — The Three of Cups For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

pisces February 21 – March 20 There are serious financial concerns that need to be addressed this month and there is little point in just hiding from the truth because it’s not going to make the problems go away. Deal with them now, while they are still manageable. Tackle the issue whilst it is still a (relatively) small molehill.If you don’t you could be left with a huge mountain to climb later on. On the work front, pressures and changes could seriously be making you consider your future position and you will do a lot of self-analysis about whether this role is good for you anymore. Life is short and you should endeavour where possible to do what makes you happy, even if that isn’t always to everyone’s liking. Remember you are never going to please everyone!

Card of the Month — The Two of Cups

Aries March 21 – April 20 Insecurities you might have had about a relationship will be finally put to rest this month and you should look towards making plans to heal a longstanding rift that was born out of such issues. It won’t all be plain sailing but things will be a lot better than they were before and that’s really all that matters. On the work front you are really starting to feel undervalued and this is spurring you on to look elsewhere in the career market, towards an environment where you feel you will be a lot better appreciated. However, don’t be too hasty in going for the first thing that really grabs your eye; you need to assess a number of opportunities before taking the plunge and it might not all be roses on the other side!

Card of the Month — The Hermit

158 February 2014

Taurus ­April 21 – May 20 Health matters have been playing on your mind recently and whilst you might have been holding off from doing anything about it, a condition that has been causing you some discomfort needs attention. The consequences of a visit to the doctor could see you changing certain things about your diet and there could even be a surprise discovery concerning your complaint that you were not really aware. All in all, a check-up will help you address what is wrong and quickly allow you to put it right again.

There’s nothing too serious for you to worry about but in true Taurean style, when it comes to matters medical, you just need a bit of a push, so get it seen to!

Card of the Month — The Seven of Cups

Gemini May 21 – June 20 This month is going to teach you a very valuable lesson, the consequences of which will go a long way towards dictating how the rest of the year pans out for you. The main point of issue is regarding matters at work, which you feel detached from at the moment.

However, you really need to think about stepping back and concentrating on more personal matters because you cannot physically be all things to all people at the moment. Trust in others to do what they have to do on a professional level and, rather than worry over how situations out of your control are developing, just focus on the people and responsibilities that require your immediate attention.

Card of the Month — The World

cancer June 21 – July 20 Looks like your loyalties are really going to be tested in the workplace this month as issues that you have been locked in debate over for some time are finally resolved but not necessarily in a manner that you would have preferred. You have long argued that constraints placed upon you were done so unfairly and although your case will be looked upon with some sympathy by your superiors they won’t give you every concession you have been fighting for. From here what you need to decide is whether you want to accept matters or instead wipe the slate clean and start again.

Card of the Month — The Five of Pentacles

LEO July 21 – August 21 Just recently you might have been under the impression that your life has been sliding from one crisis to another and when February arrives you will have arrived at the stage when you could simply throw your hands in the air and concede defeat. However, be strong; the worst is behind you and from the 17th the world is going to seem a much better place.

The main reason for this shift in your outlook is connected to a man you encounter at a public gathering, who will offer you an opportunity to exploit an ability you’ve left undeveloped for too long. Of course his efforts will only show you the means to greater things.

Card of the Month — The Six of Wands

virgo August 22 – September 21 For quite a long time now you’ve felt emotionally alone and after a period of forced solitude – either because of a separation or due to the passing of a companion - you finally feel like the time is right to re-enter the dating arena. However, it’s not going to be easy; there are many ghosts you still need to put to rest but you should be confident enough in your own abilities to follow your heart in search of the fulfilment you deserve. There will be hurdles along the way and being out of the loop for so long probably makes you feel a little rusty but persevere because the answer to many of your relationship problems is just waiting to be discovered. On a family matter, a relative is in need of your assistance but, before you panic, it won’t be quite what you expect.

Card of the Month — The Emperor

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advertisersindex libra September 22 – October 21 If you have been feeling a little down just recently then there will be a reason for you to start smiling again as you are about to encounter a piece of good fortune that results in your travelling abroad sometime towards the end of the month. Because it’s all so unexpected you are likely to really enjoy yourself a whole lot more and you may even find that you learn a thing or two about your own personality that you didn’t know before. All in all, this positive journey of discovery is going to leave you feeling very optimistic for the future and more able to take on the challenges that lie ahead of you. This could open up a whole, new you for 2014 and as early as February 3rd the differences may be apparent.

Card of the Month — The Six of Swords

Scorpio October 22 – November 21 Even when things get more difficult than you can possibly imagine, you have to make sure you still keep faith in yourself this month. You don’t realise how much other people actually believe in you because, if you did, it would go a long way to dispelling any self-doubt you might be suffering. A lot of your concerns centre on work but it is clear that if you just analysed things with a more positive eye then you’d soon see that there is very little to be worried about. The main problem here is something with much deeper roots and it could be worth talking to someone in a more professional capacity as this will help draw out the real truth.

Card of the Month — Judgement

Sagittarius ­November 22 – December 21 Your world is likely to be shaken and just a little stirred this coming month as the pressures put upon you by slightly selfish family members start to mount to extraordinary proportions. It could well be that things will come to a head on the February 27th 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. All in all, it is best for your sign to remain vigilant if you want to come through this with your dignity intact.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Cups

Capricorn ­December 22 – ­January 21 With the new year now in full swing there is a lot to look forward to for your sign and although you need little excuse to indulge yourself, a forthcoming wedding you are invited to may see you pushing the boundaries. It might not all end up pretty but it will be an experience you’re unlikely to forget. On another level, although your general fortunes enjoyed a bit of an upturn last month, your mood could be more melancholy than usual and this could have a lot to do with your personal 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.

Card of the Month — The Knight of Swords

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Justin Timberlake

Shakira

Cristiano Ronaldo

FAMOUS Aquarius THIS MONTH

Financial Institutions Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . . . . 88 BMI Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 bnl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Citibank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cover

Hotels & Luxury Apartments Al Areen Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Crowne Plaza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Elite Seef Residence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Ramee Baisan International . . . . . . . . . 113 Ramee Group of Hotels . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 The Domain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Jewellery & Watches Al Zain Jewellery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Asia Jewellers (Frederique Constant) . . . 4 Asia Jewellers (Rayond Weil) . . . . . . . . 41 Lifestyle Fine Jewellery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Omega . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 & 3 Sharif Group (Ferre Milano) . . . . . . . . . . 21

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . 45 Marafie Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Motoring Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes Benz) . . . 33 Bahrain International Circuit. . . . . . . . . . 11 Ebrahim K Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Euro Motors (Jaguar) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 National Motors (Chevrolet) . . . . . . . . . . 37

Others

Al Ghalia (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Alliance Française. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Alosra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Amwaj Marina Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Chuckle Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC E-GOV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Everest Trading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Home Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Intercol (Canon) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 The Lost Paradise of Dilmun. . . . . . . . . 115 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Multinational School-Bahrain. . . . . . . . . 90 National Photo Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 Phoenicia Décor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Seef Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Shakespeare4Kidz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 SNSE 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Syed Junaid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 The Urban Wellness Center . . . . . . . . . 114

Restaurants & Cafés

Atayeb Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Block 338 Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Café Italia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 La Cucina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 McDonald’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 Nuasia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Rayés Lebanese Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . 71 Seafood Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Shoo Fee Ma Fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Vapiano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Telecommunications

Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17, 104 VIVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IFC

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, Saar ● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop ● BooksPlus, all outlets ● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Park Supermarket, Mahooz ● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai ● Other leading Cold Stores and

News Stands All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from National Photo Services, Gudaibiya 17 742-955.

February 2014 159

lastword

Myth Buster!

JAMES CLAIRE I am not a fan of reality television, but I do like Mythbusters!

160 February 2014

Having married last year for the first time I feel like I am living a real life version of the television programme, experiencing all the myths about marriage. Sadly, I’m not busting the myths but proving many of them to be true.

And just when I thought I was being unfair on my wife and being too philosophical, I read a quote from Socrates, “By all means, marry! If you get a good wife, you'll become happy; if you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher.”

I never really saw the sense in marriage; in fact I tried to avoid it at any cost for years, but then I met the right woman and felt it's time to settle down. That’s what I thought anyway! Sometimes what’s right just isn’t, and I completely agree with a comment I read recently summing up a nagging itch within me, “Why do we call marriage ‘settling down’ when, in fact, it is quite unsettling?”

I used to love the words ‘babe or baby’; when my wife called me such endearing terms, it was cute and made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Flash forward a few months and I hate the words! Based upon how they are expressed to me. ‘Baabbbyyy’, when expressed slowly, usually means my wallet is about to be drained of a few more dinars. ‘BABY’ snapped quickly between clenched teeth usually means I drifted off to sleep at an inopportune moment, and a softer ‘Babe’ means she needs help with an assignment or that she wants a bigger favour, like to go out for dinner at my expense.

She used to call me cute names such as ‘JC’ or ‘James’; today they are not spoken with love but stamped in the air making my aura quiver. If I hear ‘JAMES’ I know I need to hide, for she has found my dirty laundry, while ‘JC’ is usually yelled in my direction at 4am when she finds me asleep on the sofa watching a blank screen on the TV. My married friends used to jokingly suggest that life when married goes from being about combined wealth and assets to “What’s mine is mine; what’s yours is ours.” I even remember laughing at that once — I wish I hadn’t!

My assets have already been divided and I got nothing. I seem to have inherited all the debt while the only thing that seems to have died is my ability to save money!

If Bahrain had a one thousand dinar note, and if I could afford one, I’d carry that bad boy everywhere. Oh, look darling, I don’t have change, can you pay for dinner this time?

Since marriage I have realised that the greatest liars in the world are married men. Not because they are doing bad things, but because they don’t tell the single guys of this world the truth. They tell you that marriage is great and that they could never see themselves single again! Whatever! I’ve quickly realised that they are just too scared to voice their opinions.

Marriage may not have made me a better man, but it has made me wiser, quicker on my feet and quicker to hide when I hear certain words.

I’ve also learnt time management and the art of caring. I don’t let her get company transport to work anymore. No, I’m such a caring husband that I drop her at work just to make sure she is really there, before speeding back to the apartment to get a decent sleep.

I was worried that perhaps some of this anxiety and hiding of true feelings meant I was not a good husband. Then I read a quote of Honoré de Balzac, “A good husband is never the first to go to sleep at night or the last to awake in the morning.”

Well, my wife makes sure I’m neither the first to sleep nor the last to wake, so I’m obviously doing something right.

Perhaps I should give the final word on marriage to Rodney Dangerfield, “We sleep in separate rooms, we have dinner apart and we take separate vacations. We're doing everything we can to keep our marriage together!”

Marriage, it’s a funny concept, but I’m sure none of us would have it any other way!

Well, that’s what we’ll tell the single people!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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