Bahrain This Month - February 2017 by Red House Marketing

WHAT’S NEW | DOWNTIME | TEST DRIVES

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Happenings

• Bahrain International Garden Show • Bahrain Schools Expo • Frank Bruno Visit

Interviews

• Entrepreneur Mark Fernandes • Aircraft Enthusiast Bader Murad • British Guitarist Jason Carter

Valentine’s Day

Annual Telecom Review

• Round-Up of Dinner Venues • Gift Guide

A Special Report

Seef Focus

February 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 2

The District’s Best Offerings Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

iPhone 7 Plus

available in all colours at VIVA stores

Puglia, Italy

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Inspired by Puglia, we blend design, functions, materials and colours to create harmonious living. Pasquale Natuzzi Free Interior Design service available in our stores. Find the nearest one at PHOENICIA DECOR - Seef District - Tel: 17 564 444

As Mercedes as on day one.

reisae ti gnikam si pihsrelaed gnidael sihT nwo y rev ruoy esahcrup ot reve naht .elcihev y ruxul s’modgniK eht ,srotoM daddaH lA gnittup ni seveileb ,relaed zneB-sedecreM fo rebmun a sreffo dna tsrfi sremotsuc sti denwo-erp sti ni srevird rof sevitnecni .)EP( ytivisulcxEnevorP – emmargorp elcihev gnikatsniap a fo ecnarussa eht dnoyeB edisdaor ruoh-42 dna ssecorp noitacfiitrec ytivisulcxEnevorP defiitrec y reve ,ecnatsissa fo rebmun a htiw semoc zneB-sedecreM retemodo ruoy tahw rettam on oS .stfieneb .sdnuob on wonk lliw ecnedfinoc ruoy ,sdaer EP ruo fo eno esoohc uoy nehW “ dna noitnetta emas eht teg uoy ,selcihev wen a gniyub nehw tcepxe d’uoy taht erac ta reganam selas ,eugoL nay rB syas ”,rac zneB-sedecreM y revE“ .srotoM daddaH lA suorogir ruo ssap tsum emmargorp eht ni y rotsih dna lacirtcele ,lacinahcem ,ytefas 21 ruo dedrawa gnieb erofeb skcehc edisdaor sruoh 42 ,ytnarraw ’shtnom ,]selcihev detceles no elbaliava[ ecnatsissa ”.y rotsih eciv res lluf dna ,ytefas ogrednu tsum elcihev EP y revE

redro ni skcehc lacirtcele dna lacinahcem tniop 07‘ a wollof selcihev esohT .yfilauq ot ,sekarb ;enigne eht sedulcni hcihw ,’kcehc eht rof spu kcehc ytefas dna noissimsnart ot erutcurts ydob morF .elcihev elohw dna ,stleb taes ,sesnel ,semarf pmal ,ssalg .tuo tfel si gnihton ,srorrim ytinav dnarb eht taht erusne ohw ,stsilaicepS elbailer tsom ,tsefas eht sedivorp .skcehc eseht tuo y rrac ,ecneirepxe defiitrec-ytivisulcxEnevorP ,revoeroM tneinevnoc reffo ot ydaer era elpoepselas .sesahcrup EP troppus ot snoitpo gnicnanfi eht reviled ot sevirts ytivisulcxEnevorP lanoitpecxe htiw selcihev ytilauq-tsehgih a si emmargorp sihT .eciv res remotsuc ot hsiw ohw esoht rof noitpo tneinevnoc dda ro ,zneB-sedecreM rieht ni edart .noitcelloc gnitsixe rieht otni elcihev rehtona ,ytivisulcxEnevorP no noitamrofni erom roF ni llaM feeS ta dnats srotoM daddaH lA tisiv no srotoM daddaH lA llac ro qarrahuM .454-587 71 reisae ti gnikam si pihsrelaed gnidael sihT nwo y rev ruoy esahcrup ot reve naht .elcihev y ruxul s’modgniK eht ,srotoM daddaH lA gnittup ni seveileb ,relaed zneB-sedecreM fo rebmun a sreffo dna tsrfi sremotsuc sti denwo-erp sti ni srevird rof sevitnecni .)EP( ytivisulcxEnevorP – emmargorp elcihev gnikatsniap a fo ecnarussa eht dnoyeB edisdaor ruoh-42 dna ssecorp noitacfiitrec ytivisulcxEnevorP defiitrec y reve ,ecnatsissa fo rebmun a htiw semoc zneB-sedecreM retemodo ruoy tahw rettam on oS .stfieneb .sdnuob on wonk lliw ecnedfinoc ruoy ,sdaer EP ruo fo eno esoohc uoy nehW “ dna noitnetta emas eht teg uoy ,selcihev wen a gniyub nehw tcepxe d’uoy taht erac ta reganam selas ,eugoL nay rB syas ”,rac zneB-sedecreM y revE“ .srotoM daddaH lA suorogir ruo ssap tsum emmargorp eht ni y rotsih dna lacirtcele ,lacinahcem ,ytefas 21 ruo dedrawa gnieb erofeb skcehc edisdaor sruoh 42 ,ytnarraw ’shtnom ,]selcihev detceles no elbaliava[ ecnatsissa ”.y rotsih eciv res lluf dna ,ytefas ogrednu tsum elcihev EP y revE

mechanical and electrical checks in order to qualify. Those vehicles follow a ‘70 point check’, which includes the engine; brakes, transmission and safety check ups for the whole vehicle. From body structure to glass, lamp frames, lenses, seat belts, and vanity mirrors, nothing is left out. Specialists, who ensure that the brand provides the safest, most reliable experience, carry out these checks. Moreover, ProvenExclusivity-certified salespeople are ready to offer convenient financing options to support PE purchases. ProvenExclusivity strives to deliver the highest-quality vehicles with exceptional customer service. This programme is a convenient option for those who wish to trade in their Mercedes-Benz, or add another vehicle into their existing collection. For more information on ProvenExclusivity, visit Al Haddad Motors stand at Seef Mall in Muharraq or call Al Haddad Motors on 17 785-454.

This leading dealership is making it easier than ever to purchase your very own luxury vehicle. Al Haddad Motors, the Kingdom’s Mercedes-Benz dealer, believes in putting its customers first and offers a number of incentives for drivers in its pre-owned vehicle programme – ProvenExclusivity (PE). Beyond the assurance of a painstaking certification process and 24-hour roadside assistance, every certified ProvenExclusivity Mercedes-Benz comes with a number of benefits. So no matter what your odometer reads, your confidence will know no bounds. “When you choose one of our PE vehicles, you get the same attention and care that you’d expect when buying a new car,” says Bryan Logue, sales manager at Al Haddad Motors. “Every Mercedes-Benz in the programme must pass our rigorous safety, mechanical, electrical and history checks before being awarded our 12 months’ warranty, 24 hours roadside assistance [available on selected vehicles], and full service history.” Every PE vehicle must undergo safety,

Issue 234

Contents February 2017 HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of February 2017: 24

Shop Bahrain Festival Returns:

The third edition of this popular event is in full swing. 26

Annual Fine Arts Exhibition:

The event brings together artists from all around the world.

28 Walk

for Cancer:

The Bahrain Cancer Society will hold a special walkathon. 30 Gulf

Industry Fair 2017:

Two major forums highlighting Bahrain’s role in the GCC’s industrial development. 32 An

Expo for the Whole Family:

The Bahrain Schools Expo and the popular Mother and Child Expo return. 34 Movie

Night:

La Fontaine screens the ballet production of Romeo and Juliet. 36 Bahrain

International Garden Show:

A platform for experts and enthusiasts to further develop their knowledge.

After Dark 38 Ooh

La La:

A Parisian themed party at Cellar 59, ART Rotana. 40 Rio

Rocking:

Enjoy an evening of great fun with a South American carnival theme.

INTERVIEWS 42

Sailing to Success

Entrepreneur Mark Fernandes shares the story of his company’s success.

Flying High

Aviation enthusiast, Bader Murad, chats about how his dreams took flight.

50 Bystander This Month’s Bystander pages are filled with events including the US bilateral relations reception, So French Week grand opening and the launch of Shop Bahrain Festival. Our snappers also captured other social happenings such as exhibition openings, New Year’s Eve parties and other soirées around town.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

On a Sure Footing

BTM caught up with Zouhair Farhat, general manager of the Frsan Group.

Leading By Example

Meet Betul Bovya, who is making her mark in a largely male dominated industry.

A Grain of Sand

British guitarist Jason Carter talks about his latest project.

February 2017 7

KATHERYN WINNICK RAYMOND WEILâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brand ambassador Katheryn Winnick introduces the new dazzling shine collection. Feminine, elegant and sensual, this exclusive collection features a unique patented system of interchangeable bracelets. It is presented with two straps, a steel bracelet and a black satin strap. shine is a pure jewel for independent women who want their watch to be a part of every occasion. Join the discussion #RWKatherynWinnick

shine collection

Issue 234

Contents February 2017 FEATURES Annual Telecom Review 52-54

A special report on the future of the industry and services offered by telecom providers in the Kingdom.

Seef Focus 55-64

An overview of the businesses and facilities located within Seef and the surrounding area. 65

Motoring

A Lasting Impression:

The car with a personality – the new Audi A/S3. 66

A Jekyll and Hyde Drive:

Charlie Holding puts the new Porsche Panamera to the test. 68 More

than Meets the Eye:

Charlie Holding takes the five-door hatchback, Suzuki Baleno, for a spin. 71 The

Future Is Coming!:

BMW is leading the charge and the company proved it at the 2017 CES. 73 A

Sophisticated Sedan:

Volvo is pulling out all the stops with its latest model, the S90. 74-75 Motoring

News and Launches:

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

Downtime

76-77 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 78 Music: Top Tunes

80 Computer Games: The hot games of the month 82 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 84 Movies: New releases 86 Apps: Essential apps

Valentine’s Feature 88-103

BTM highlights the different venues to spend Valentine’s Day with your loved one and the editor’s choice of gifts for this special occasion.

106

104

Dining

Working Hard For Food:

Puja Tiwari reviews The Foundry and explores its culinary delights. 106

Fusions Galore:

Internationally acclaimed restaurant, Asia de Cuba, opens its doors in Bahrain this month. 108

A Wonderful New Addition:

Capital Club’s newly appointed chef emphasises the use of locally sourced produce. 109

French Flair:

Golden Tulip’s executive chef is bringing new dimensions to its food outlets. 110

112

Catch All the Action:

Time Café redefines the sports lounge experience. 111 Table

Hopping

Showcase

What’s New: Must-have products 113-122 Marketplace: Latest products and services 123-124 Business Bites 112

Regulars

89 www.bahrainthismonth.com

125 Last Word 126 Tarotscope 127 AD Index 128 WIN WIN

February 2017 9

Under the Patronage of

HIS MAJESTY KING HAMAD BIN ISA AL KHALIFA King of Bahrain

23 -26 FEBRUARY 2017 BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION & CONVENTION CENTRE

www.bigs.com.bh

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month February 2017

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

February on the island means two things: cool, wintry weather and the arrival of

Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel, Gopal Nambiar Photography Editor Mona Abdul Jabbar

enjoy all the Kingdom has to offer; and where better to do this than at Festival

Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan

our Happenings section. You’ll also find information on another big event, the

Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Kadambari S

towards the end of the month, as well as Gulf Industry Fair, the launch of Spring

Valentine’s Day. The balmy breezes give us a chance to get out and about and City, which has taken over Bahrain Bay as part of the annual Shopping Festival. The festivities continue across the island’s malls and we’ve got all the details in Bahrain International Garden Show, which turns the exhibition centre green

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

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

of Culture – of which more in our next edition – and much more. With the approach of Valentine’s Day, our thoughts turn to love. If you want to spoil the object of your affections, take a look at our gift guide for ideas to help you steal their heart. Or, if you’re more of the opinion that the way to the heart is through the stomach, look no further than our comprehensive round-up of dining options from all the island’s major restaurants and hotels. This month’s interviews include entrepreneur Mark Fernandes, who tells us staff are the key to his company’s success, and aeroplane fanatic Bader Murad,

Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com

who has made a career from what was once a hobby, building plane and architectural models. We’ve also spoken to specialists from the hospitality

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

scene, Zouhair Farhat and Betul Bovya, and musician and film maker Jason Carter, who aims to take Bahrain’s pearling history to the international stage.

Published monthly by

Our annual telecoms review reveals plans for the future from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority as well as the latest offers from the Kingdom’s major operators. And in the motoring section, Charlie Holding puts three very different vehicles

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

•

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

through their paces and falls a little in love with each of them. We’ve also got our regular round-up of gadgets, films, apps and more in the Downtime section as well as dining options and reviews of the non-romantic variety to tickle your taste buds. However you choose to spend February, whether with friends or loved ones, take us with you for your guide to a great way of life.

COVER Cover Picture:

Valentine’s feature. George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

WHAT’S NEW | DOWNTIME | TEST DRIVES

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

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24 Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Happenings

• Bahrain International Garden Show • Bahrain Schools Expo • Frank Bruno Visit

Interviews

• Entrepreneur Mark Fernandes • Aircraft Enthusiast Bader Murad • British Guitarist Jason Carter

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide Valentine’s Day

Annual Telecom Review

• Round-Up of Dinner Venues • Gift Guide

A Special Report

Seef Focus

February 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 2

The District’s Best Offerings Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Connect with Bahrain This Month: Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

Nightlife

February 2017 11

bystander

Mayas

Majid Zayani, Mohannad Al Aali, Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa & Abdul Wahab

US Embassy Reception HE William Roebuck, US Ambassador hosted a reception in honour of US-Bahrain bilateral economic and commercial relations at his residence in Saar.

Christian

Dafar Al Umran, HE William Roebuck & John

Shaikh Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa & Daniel

Ahmed Jawahari & Mohammed Dadabai

Catherine

Abdulla, Ali & Nabeel Jula & Sarina

Panos & Kevin Amro

Bob, Richard & Qays

Ebtisam

Ahmed Jawahari & Bissonnette

Sunita & Bob

Aleksandra, Karina, HE William Roebuck, Qays Zuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;bi & Khalid Turk

Yara, Zahra & Ahlam

12 February 2017

Hind & Anne

Emma

Dr Khalid, Kevin & Aala

Eman & Bassam

Amy & Darwish Mannai

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Andre Reichardt & Joseph Moussa

Daad & Fescaef

So French 2017 Opening Night The organising committee of So French 2017, in the presence of HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, held a grand opening reception to launch So French Week 2017 at the Sofitel Bahrain. Nor Huda, HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre, HE Chayapan Bamrungphong & HE Dr A S U Mendis

Mishal Al Jarallah, Abdulrahman Fakhro, Mohammed Yateem & Maher Musallam

Sami Bukaled & Karim

Sherin, Panos, Ameen & Doris

HE Alfred Simms-Protz & HE Vagif Garaev

HE Kiyoshi Asako & HE Chilman Arisman

Maya, Amal Almoayyed & Mazen Al Umran

14 February 2017

Waleed Kanoo & Dalia

Alexandra, Aude & Laura

Janeela, Vicky & Rehab

Richard & Alexandra

Dafar Al Umran & Jassim Al Zayani

Filippo & Akram Miknas

Sahar, Dalia, Homa Jawari & Anisa

Lyse Helene & Alex

Georges Djandji, Mona Almoayyed & Adel Fakhro

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Imagine France Atout France and BNB Paribas held the opening ceremony of the photographic exhibition of Imagine France by Maia Flore at the Bahrain Financial Harbour.

Nancy & Kamel

Candice & Mary

Alison & Terrence Davis

Ali & Ahmed

Suad & Amina

Karishma & Elham

Jacques Michel, HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre & Karim Mekachera

Rahim & Navin

James

Devendra & Weaam

Sayed

Samina & Nick

Christophe & Jean Christophe

Vincent

HE Domenico Bellato, HE Alfred Simms-Protz, Perwin, Bahram Hajou & Kesra Khalil

Art Exhibition

Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities in collaboration with the German Embassy held the opening of the exhibition “Gagged…no dialogue” by Bahram Hajou at the Art Centre. HE Alfred Simms-Protz, Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Bahram Hajou & HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qader

David & Ratna

HE Chayapan Bamrungphong & Abdulla Juma

16 February 2017

Laura & HE Domineco Bellato

Eliana, Alessio & Danya

Amal, Perwin & Klaus

Alaa & Ghada

www.bahrainthismonth.com

@BHThisMonth

bahrainthismonth

www.bahrainthismonth.com

@bahrainthismonth

bystander

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Parties 2017

Crowne Plaza Hotel Gilles Nicolas & Ebrahim Kooheji

Nataliia, Zee, Rodolphe & Carla

Valentina, Anam, Pamela, Serien & Sandra

Veronica, Martha & Jennifer

Emily & Lily

Alex & Daya

Ranjit & Zahra

18 February 2017

Margaret, Pan, Pauline & Liz

Daniel, Ana Maria, Mauricio & Isabel

The Domain Hotel and Spa Mustafa & Kelly

Baqer, Ahmed & Florina

Lindsey, Rowena, Tracy & Flora

Ramee Grand Hotel DJ Derek J & DJ Alishka

Dee, Sawsan & Dinah

Roy & Bob

Waseem, Abood & Nicolas

Dee & Frany

Natalie

Jamal & Ahmed

Ali

Lucas, Jauffer & Anthony

Amy & Roshini

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Parties 2017

JJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irish Restaurant Olivia, Lena, Lavonne & Lisa

Colleen & Rachel

Zara & Siyana

Joe & Jenny

Ahmed, Susan & Sarah

Zaher & Yasmin

Gulf Hotel Gulf Hotel management & staff

Movenpick Hotel HE William Roebuck & Michael Lorenzo & Robert

Abbas & Shahla

Daniel & Julie

Jenny & Kim

Stefanie & David

20 February 2017

Teliya & Zaher

Steve & Sarajane

Elray

Hannah & Ryan

Charley, Donna, Anna, Rosemary & Sasha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Parties 2017

Atiram Premier Hotel Damian & Naveen

Durry & Renuka

Michelle, Reem, Francoise, Alex & Irina

Edyta, Dalia, Amro, Joanna & Natalia

David, Sayed, Joane, Natalia & Carlos

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa

Management and staff celebrate at Cavallo Lounge

Laura, Bunchi, Thomas & Frank

Cathy & Efi

Yannis, Panos, Doris & Alex

Florencia & Mauro

Junghee & Eric

Myrra & Johan

Rose & David

Alissar & Mia

22 February 2017

David & Ratna

Laura & Ben

Kim, Leonora, Rachel, Ross, Aime & Bill

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Parties 2017

Crowne Plaza Hotel Gilles Nicolas & Ebrahim Kooheji

Nataliia, Zee, Rodolphe & Carla

Valentina, Anam, Pamela, Serien & Sandra

Veronica, Martha & Jennifer

Emily & Lily

Alex & Daya

Ranjit & Zahra

18 February 2017

Margaret, Pan, Pauline & Liz

Daniel, Ana Maria, Mauricio & Isabel

The Domain Hotel and Spa Mustafa & Kelly

Baqer, Ahmed & Florina

Lindsey, Rowena, Tracy & Flora

Ramee Grand Hotel DJ Derek J & DJ Alishka

Dee, Sawsan & Dinah

Roy & Bob

Waseem, Abood & Nicolas

Dee & Frany

Natalie

Jamal & Ahmed

Ali

Lucas, Jauffer & Anthony

Amy & Roshini

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Parties 2017

JJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irish Restaurant Olivia, Lena, Lavonne & Lisa

Colleen & Rachel

Zara & Siyana

Joe & Jenny

Ahmed, Susan & Sarah

Zaher & Yasmin

Gulf Hotel Gulf Hotel management & staff

Movenpick Hotel HE William Roebuck & Michael Lorenzo & Robert

Abbas & Shahla

Daniel & Julie

Jenny & Kim

Stefanie & David

20 February 2017

Teliya & Zaher

Steve & Sarajane

Elray

Hannah & Ryan

Charley, Donna, Anna, Rosemary & Sasha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Parties 2017

Atiram Premier Hotel Damian & Naveen

Durry & Renuka

Michelle, Reem, Francoise, Alex & Irina

Edyta, Dalia, Amro, Joanna & Natalia

David, Sayed, Joane, Natalia & Carlos

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa

Management and staff celebrate at Cavallo Lounge

Laura, Bunchi, Thomas & Frank

Cathy & Efi

Yannis, Panos, Doris & Alex

Florencia & Mauro

Junghee & Eric

Myrra & Johan

Rose & David

Alissar & Mia

22 February 2017

David & Ratna

Laura & Ben

Kim, Leonora, Rachel, Ross, Aime & Bill

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Parties 2017

Crowne Plaza Hotel Gilles Nicolas & Ebrahim Kooheji

Nataliia, Zee, Rodolphe & Carla

Valentina, Anam, Pamela, Serien & Sandra

Veronica, Martha & Jennifer

Emily & Lily

Alex & Daya

Ranjit & Zahra

18 February 2017

Margaret, Pan, Pauline & Liz

Daniel, Ana Maria, Mauricio & Isabel

The Domain Hotel and Spa Mustafa & Kelly

Baqer, Ahmed & Florina

Lindsey, Rowena, Tracy & Flora

Ramee Grand Hotel DJ Derek J & DJ Alishka

Dee, Sawsan & Dinah

Roy & Bob

Waseem, Abood & Nicolas

Dee & Frany

Natalie

Jamal & Ahmed

Ali

Lucas, Jauffer & Anthony

Amy & Roshini

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Parties 2017

JJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irish Restaurant Olivia, Lena, Lavonne & Lisa

Colleen & Rachel

Zara & Siyana

Joe & Jenny

Ahmed, Susan & Sarah

Zaher & Yasmin

Gulf Hotel Gulf Hotel management & staff

Movenpick Hotel HE William Roebuck & Michael Lorenzo & Robert

Abbas & Shahla

Daniel & Julie

Jenny & Kim

Stefanie & David

20 February 2017

Teliya & Zaher

Steve & Sarajane

Elray

Hannah & Ryan

Charley, Donna, Anna, Rosemary & Sasha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Parties 2017

Atiram Premier Hotel Damian & Naveen

Durry & Renuka

Michelle, Reem, Francoise, Alex & Irina

Edyta, Dalia, Amro, Joanna & Natalia

David, Sayed, Joane, Natalia & Carlos

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa

Management and staff celebrate at Cavallo Lounge

Laura, Bunchi, Thomas & Frank

Cathy & Efi

Yannis, Panos, Doris & Alex

Florencia & Mauro

Junghee & Eric

Myrra & Johan

Rose & David

Alissar & Mia

22 February 2017

David & Ratna

Laura & Ben

Kim, Leonora, Rachel, Ross, Aime & Bill

www.bahrainthismonth.com

FEBRUARY 2017. HAPPENINGS AUTUMN FAIR 2017

When? Ongoing-February 2 Event? Autumn Fair Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre The Autumn Fair 2017 is Bahrain’s biggest and most popular annual consumer products exhibition. The venue becomes a colourful bazaar, transformed by traders who have travelled from far and wide to Bahrain bringing with them their country’s best exports. The largest international groups assemble to form national pavilions and include countries such as China, Egypt, India, Kuwait, Lebanon, Pakistan, Turkey, Thailand, Syria, UAE and Yemen. Entry is 800fils and tickets can be purchased from kiosks at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre. Children under nine years will be admitted free of charge. The exhibition is open from 10am to 10pm. Visit www.aemallworld.com/

ART ON DISPLAY When? Ongoing-February 10 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery Lebanese artist Abed Al Kadiri’s work is on display at Albareh Art Gallery. After more than 10 years of working on sociopolitical themes, Abed conceived this exhibition as a form of mitigation between himself and the reality of the contemporary world – an attempt to find peace in the midst of a war-torn region. Call 17 717-707.

SHOP BAHRAIN FESTIVAL RETURNS When? Ongoing- February 18 Event? Shopping Festival Venue? Various The third edition of this popular event features an impressive line-up that includes entertainment and prizes. This 30-day event, aimed at celebrating the Kingdom’s hospitality and tourism offerings, is organised by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and Tamkeen and is held in co-operation with partners from the public and private sectors. Food Lovers will have the opportunity to

24 February 2017

tantalise their taste buds with the return of ‘The Taste Tour’ and enjoy the various platters offered by the 29 participating restaurants from across the Kingdom. Set menus range from BD5-BD12 per person. Bahrain’s malls also feature a number of family-friendly events. Seef Mall, Seef District – Shoppers with receipts totaling BD50 or above will get the chance to experience a fun and surprising way of winning prizes at the Box of Luck. Play with a friend that can control the joystick while you try to grab a prize. Seef Mall, Muharraq – Challenge each other at the huge footypool game located in the mall. It runs from 11am to 11pm every weekend. Bahrain Mall – Escape Code Room: Get locked in a room filled with hidden clues and cryptic puzzles and see if you and your friends have what it takes to escape. It runs from 10am to 11pm daily. Saar Mall – A children’s cinema will feature some of the most popular cartoons and Disney features. It runs from 10am to 11pm daily. Enma Mall – There is a miniature golf course where shoppers try to score while manoeuvring fun obstacles. It runs from 4pm

to 10pm daily. Dragon City – Shoppers will get the opportunity to hang their wishes in a tree that will be available at the mall throughout the duration of the festival. A raffle draw will then be conducted and one wish will be granted. Al Aali Shopping Complex – A five-metre blank canvas will be set up at the mall allowing visitors to showcase their creativity by painting. Yateem Centre – Enjoy a giant game of Jenga and crazy big checkers and experience old favourites in a new way. It runs from 4pm to 9pm every weekend. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

THE FESTIVAL CITY When? Ongoing-February 18 Event? Family entertainment Venue? Bahrain Bay

GAGGED … NO DIALOGUE

This is one of the largest events taking place during the third edition of Shop Bahrain, a 30-day celebration. The event will also include a schedule of entertaining activities at the participating shopping malls and hotels. There will also be a series of raffles with a range of prizes available. Festival City features carnival games and prizes, an outdoor market, live shows and musical performances. Entry costs BD2 with free admission for those aged six years or under. The event opens weekdays from 4pm to 10pm and from 4pm to midnight on weekends. Visit www.shopbahrain.com or @shopbahrain on the social networking channels Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. The Festival organisers have also launched a dedicated whatsapp channel on 38 999-111.

When? Ongoing-February 19 Event? Exhibition Venue? Art Centre In collaboration with the Embassy of the Federal Republic Of Germany in Bahrain, the Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities is giving audiences an opportunity to experience a contrasting style of visual expression; one in which characters are portrayed in an unusual way. Through his distinctive artworks, artist Bahram Hajou poses different questions that can be answered in a multitude of ways and, at the same time, relays messages about various issues and topics based on his own personal understanding. The event is free to attend and runs from 9am to 8pm. Visit www.culture.gov.bh/en/theevents/current_events/

ANNUAL FINE ARTS EXHIBITION When? Ongoing-March 17 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Theatre This exhibition, held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, brings together artists for a celebration of fine art. The exhibition runs for eight weeks, extending to the Spring of Culture. This year, the exhibition opens its doors to welcome artists from all around the world, residing the country, to participate. There is also a competition; international jury members will evaluate the works and offer three prizes.

When? Ongoing-February 10 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery E Call 17 717-707. When? Ongoing-February 18 Event? Shopping Festival Venue? Various E Visit www.shopbahrain.com When? Ongoing-February 18 Event? Family entertainment Venue? Bahrain Bay E Visit www.shopbahrain.com or @shopbahrain on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. The Festival organisers have also launched a dedicated whatsapp channel on 38 999-111. When? Ongoing-February 19 Event? Exhibition Venue? Art Centre E Visit www.culture.gov.bh/en/ theevents/current_events/ When? Ongoing-March 17 Event? Arts Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Theatre E Visit www.culture.gov.bh When? February 1 Event? Art Class Venue? The Art House E Call 39 253-943.

First place prize is BD6,000, second place is an allexpenses-paid solo exhibition for a month at the Art Centre and third place is a two-week all-expensespaid art residency in Egypt – at Al Fayoum Art Centre. Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

MIXED MEDIA PORTRAIT ART WORKSHOP When? February 1 Event? Art Class Venue? The Art House This workshop will teach you how to draw and shade a basic front facing portrait, then integrate it into a mixed media background. Participants will learn how to use different mediums to create a background and then combine it with their drawings. Sana Asad, an art graduate and fashion designer, conducts the class. No previous experience is necessary. The workshop, which costs BD25, begins at 9am and runs until noon. Call 39 253-943. 26 February 2017

When? Ongoing-February 2 Event? Autumn Fair Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Visit www.aemallworld.com/

When? February 1-4 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Words BookstoreCafé E Call 17 690-790. When? February 2-4 Event? Play Venue? British School of Bahrain The school will stage a production of Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest. The show will take place in the multi-purpose hall on the second and fourth of February at 6pm and at 5pm on the third. E Email bisselll@thebsbh.com. When? February 3 Event? Walk-A-Thon Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain E Call 17 233-080 or email adnan.alqassab@gmail.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

YOUR FACE IS NOT YOU When? February 1-4 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Words BookstoreCafé Dalal Al Sindi’s first solo exhibition expresses the lack and fullness of ego we suffer as individuals. Her practice as an art therapist has had a deep impact on her work – in terms of psychological expression and rawness seen in her paintings. The exhibition opens on February 1 at 7pm and continues throughout the week. Call 17 690-790.

PICNIC IN THE PARK

When? February 3 Event? Picnic Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club

The club is hosting a picnic in the park at its premises from noon. Guests are invited to bring their own picnic or, alternatively, there will be a number of stalls selling food at the event. There will be music, live entertainment and a bouncy castle. The event is being held in association with the Palm Association. Call 17 695-809.

THE OUTDOOR YOGA PROJECT II When? February 4 Event? Yoga Venue? Behind Cappuccino Café in Saar Art Commune By Artology will be hosting this special event, which features yoga and Reiki. It will be held in the garden located in front of Kids Academy nursery – behind Cappuccino Café in Saar. Anne-Laure Renard, Nat on the mat, will be teaching a modified Ashtanga yoga class that aims to detoxify the muscles and organs. Reiki practitioner Weam Zabar will be teaching a Vinyasa Flow class, which organisers say will be fluid, fun and forgiving. The doors open at 9am and the class starts at 9.30am. The event is open to men and women aged 15 years and above. There will also be some food stalls offering a selection of fare. Participants are advised to avoid having a heavy breakfast, wear comfortable clothing and bring their own yoga mat. Pre-sale tickets cost BD12 and tickets purchased on the day will be BD15. Visit https://www.facebook. com/events/1895256104031166/

28 February 2017

WALK FOR CANCER

When? February 3 Event? Walk-A-Thon Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Coinciding with GCC Cancer Awareness Week and World Cancer Day, the Bahrain Cancer Society is holding a walkathon at The RitzCarlton Hotel. The walk is 3.2 kilometres and is open to people of all ages. The main aim of the event is to highlight the importance of regular check-ups to detect cancer in its early stages. “Your contribution will help us fight this disease which has touched many lives,” a spokesperson says. Companies, schools and organisations wishing to take part must have no less than 20 participants and submit their information as soon as possible to info@ bahraincancer.com. Event T-shirts are available for BD2. Participants should gather at the venue by 3pm, and the walk begins at 4pm. There will be water stations located at various points and medical assistance will be available. The event will include live music, souvenirs, gift shops and raffles. Call 17 233-080 or email adnan.alqassab@gmail.com.

BAHRAIN WORLD SCHOLAR’S CUP COMPETITION When? February 3-4 Event? Competition Venue? St Christopher’s School

Teams of three students compete in fun, challenging and competitive activities, debating, using collaborative writing and answering quiz-style questions. This year’s theme is ‘An Unlikely World’ and involves six interrelated subjects – art and music, literature, history, science, social studies and a special topic. There are two age ranges for the competition, 14 and below and 15+. The competition is open to all students in Bahrain, and it is anticipated that there will be some entries from schools in nearby GCC states. The Manama competition is one of many regional World Scholar’s Cup events around the world. Teams who perform particularly well are then given invitations to either of the World Scholar’s Cup global competitions, which will be held in Hanoi and Cape Town this summer. Call 17 605-050.

When? February 3 Event? Picnic Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club E Call 17 695-809. When? February 3-4 Event? Competition Venue? St Christopher’s School E Call 17 605-050. When? February 4 Event? Yoga Venue? Behind Cappuccino Café in Saar E CVisit https://www.facebook. com/ events/1895256104031166/ When? February 5-25 Event? Photography Expo Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 17 298-714. When? February 6 Event? Drag and Drift Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Call 17 450-000. When? February 7-8 Event? Gulf Industry Fair 2017 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Email sarah@tradearabia.net. When? February 9 Event? Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Call 17 558-800. When? February 9 Event? Bahrain Family Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Call 17 558-800. When? February 11 Event? Farmers’ Market Venue? Budaiya Botanical Gardens E Visit https://www.facebook. com/pages/Budaiya-BotanicalGarden/187482411329487. When? February 13 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795. When? February 14 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant Enjoy an evening discussing and reciting poetry with fellow enthusiasts at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

GAZING AT THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD When? February 5-25 Event? Photography Expo Venue? Bahrain National Museum This exhibition presents the essence of contemporary Japanese photography, which reflects unique concepts and approaches while dealing with issues of contemporary photographic expression shared throughout the world. The collection focuses on two main concepts; changing society and changing landscapes, through the works of 24 Japanese artists. This exhibition is held in collaboration with the Japanese Embassy in Bahrain. Call 17 298-714.

AN ELECTRIFYING DOUBLE-HEADER When? February 6 Event? Drag and Drift Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Choose between two of the most popular and exciting forms of motorsport today – drag racing and drifting – and then show off your skills. Can’t decide? Then compete in both. This exciting double-header, sponsored by Ebrahim K Kanoo and powered by Motor City, is open to the public. Drivers take part in their own car or on their motorbike, where they can push the limits! It starts at 6pm and entry to the venue is free. Call 17 450-000.

GULF INDUSTRY FAIR 2017 TO HOST TWO MAJOR FORUMS When? February 7-8 Event? Gulf Industry Fair 2017 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

Gulf Industry Fair 2017 is hosting two major forums that will highlight Bahrain’s role as a conduit for industrialisation in the GCC. The Indian Business Partnership summit, which is led by India’s PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will include a delegation of 30 businesses and entrepreneurs. The event explores potential investment opportunities between India, Bahrain and the GCC, with the aim of furthering trade relations. Meanwhile, Bahrain Industrial Association and Gulf Industry Fair will present the GIF Dialogue: Future of Industry in the GCC. The event features a roundtable discussion for Bahrain’s industrial leaders to discuss policy and initiatives to encourage industrial development. The Northern Gulf’s leading annual industrial expo takes place under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain. Entry to the events is free but pre-registration is required as spaces are limited. Email sarah@tradearabia.net.

MOTHER AND CHILD EXPO

When? February 9 Event? Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

The Mother and Child Expo is a one-stop platform that offers a large selection of maternity products, new born and baby items – from toys and accessories to education saving schemes-all under one roof. The expo will showcase products and services for mothers, expectant mothers, infants, babies and kids. Products and services at the expo will encompass a wide variety of topics, including nursery, childcare, health and safety, nutrition, maternity, children’s fashion and accessories, education, and entertainment. The event will include interactive expert seminars and live stage performances led by famous cartoon and 30 February 2017

When? February 17 Event? Jawad Mini Marathon Venue? Jawad Dome Barbar This charity event sees participants run for five or eight kilometres (starting at 8.50am and 9am respectively) or take part in a five-kilometre walk at 9.10am. It costs BD1 for children up to 15 years and BD2 for ages 16 and above, which includes a T-shirt and raffle draw coupon. E Register online at www. jawadminimarathon.com When? February 18 Event? Concert Venue? Bahrain Fort Site Museum E Call 1756 7171. When? February 18 Event? Fun Day Venue? Budaiya pre-school There will be a family fun day from 10am to 2pm. The event will include pony rides, a bouncy castle, games and more. E Call 17 719-491. When? February 20 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Creative Workshop Venue? Umami Restaurant Hone your creative writing skills at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795. When? February 21 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123, email info@ lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net When? February 21-24 Event? BDRC – Round 4 Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Call 17 450-000. When? February 24 Event? Sports Speaker MENA Venue? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa E Call 33 886-952. When? February 24-26 Event? Garden Show Venue? Bahrain International Convention & Exhibition Centre E Call 17 558-800.

TV-series characters. A play area will be also available, where visitors can safely leave their children while they explore the exhibition. Call 17 558-800.

When? February 25-April Event? Spring of Culture Venue? Various E Visit @springofculture and springofculture.org.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

An Expo for the Whole Family

When? February 9-11 Event? Bahrain Family Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre From parents to youngsters, there is something for everyone at the Bahrain Family Expo which takes place under the patronage of Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, the CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority. Running over three days from February 9 to 11, Bahrain Family Expo incorporates Bahrain Schools Expo and the popular Mother and Child Expo and aims to be a ‘one-stop shop’ for parents seeking the best educational institution for their children. The Bahrain Schools Expo will bring together outstanding schools, nurseries, afterschool clubs and educational institutions all under one roof, while the Mother and Child Expo showcases products and services related to mums and kids with plenty of experts on hand to answer questions on a variety of topics. Now in its third year, the event has attracted great interest from parents, with one previous show visitor saying: “Finding the right school for my child is one of the most important things to me. It can be hard in Bahrain because you often have to visit the schools one by one which is sometimes difficult when you are working.” Another added: “The mother and child workshops helped me a lot with all the expert advice and consultations provided. The most important stage for a child is the early years and it made me more prepared and confident in taking the best

32 February 2017

decisions for my child.” Excitement and enthusiasm has also been engendered at schools and childcare institutions across the country for the event. Not only will they have stalls to meet parents face-to-face but they will also be able to answer questions and discuss important topics in the seminar corner; while their students showcase their talents on the stage for all to see! The exhibitors are the very best education providers in Bahrain. They are happy to be involved in the schools and childcare show since it will give them the opportunity to demonstrate to parents their adherence to the Ministry of Education’s high standards. It will also illustrate how they meet the learning needs of every child in their care so that students can achieve their full potential. Other than the expo’s educational values, organiser Groovy Events is also hosting a variety of fun activities and entertainment for all the family to enjoy. Play areas and learning exercises will be assigned for the

kids there’ll also be a reading corner along with stage performances throughout the show from school students. The event has been very successful over the last few years, having come about as the brainchild of Groovy Events CEO Habib Ebrahim who says: “The idea came to me when I was trying to find schools for my two children and I realised how much hassle it was. So we decided to remove the hassle, invited schools and childcare institutions to exhibit with us; so the schools and childcare show was born and it took off from there!” Overall, the main aim of the event is to spread awareness and deliver benefits to everyone, including parents, educational institutions and, most importantly, the children – they are what the show is ultimately about after all. Through this event, parents are able to gather more information and assess several educational options for their children and to make the best decision for their future, today. Call 17 300-363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Schools & Preschools

Maternity & Children Products

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BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTER

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FEB 2017

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happenings

MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL

BAHRAIN FARMERS’ MARKET

When? February 10 Event? Feed the Need Music & Arts Festival Venue? Arjan Village

This event showcases Bahrain’s agricultural products and highlights the developments taking place in the Kingdom’s agricultural sector. It also aims to contribute to the Bahraini farmers’ income. Many leading restaurants participate to present fresh food and drinks as a way of introducing local food to visitors of various nationalities. It runs from 8am to noon. Visit https://www.facebook.com/pages/Budaiya-BotanicalGarden/187482411329487.

One Arab Vegan

We’ve all heard of or seen the Feed The Need fridges dotted around the Kingdom, regularly stocked with free food donated by volunteers and socially responsible corporate organisations to ensure those who are unable to pay can still eat. The group’s motto is Zero Waste, Zero Hunger. On February 10, Arjan Village will become a collection hub where people can donate food, clothing and any other useable items. Some items can also be bought on location and donated. ‘Feed The Need’ fridges around Bahrain will then be filled with all the donated food, and other items will be delivered to those in need. At the same time an indie music and arts festival aims to bring the local community together in the name of humanity and compassion. Call 39 627-883/38 886-045.

When? Every Saturday Event? Farmers’ Market Venue? Budaiya Botanical Gardens

ANNUAL CELEBRATION

When? February 18 Event? Concert Venue? Bahrain Fort Site Museum The Bahrain Fort Site Museum celebrates the ninth anniversary of its opening with Ali Alolaiwi, Mohammed Hassan and Yusuf al-Jabri of Ta’a Al Shabab’s Harmony Initiative. The Harmony Initiative sees Bahrain’s talented youth perform Arabic musical concerts that reflect the Kingdom’s culture and traditions. It is free to attend.

MOVIE NIGHT When? February 21 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art La Fontaine screens the ballet production of Romeo and Juliet. This timeless tragedy, written by William Shakespeare, tells the story of two young starcrossed lovers whose deaths ultimately reconcile their feuding families. The screening starts at 8pm and the restaurant starts serving from 6.30pm. It is priced at BD10+, and the ticket’s value can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening. Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre. net or visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net 34 February 2017

BAHRAIN DRAG RACING CHAMPIONSHIP When? February 21-24 Event? BDRC – Round 4 Venue? Bahrain International Circuit The Bahrain Drag Racing Championship is the biggest drag racing series in the Gulf, attracting competitors from all over the region and beyond. An average of 120 participants flock to BIC’s worldclass quarter-mile drag strip for each event, which is held over the course of four nights. Scores of fans also turn up each round to enjoy the head-to-head racing at its finest. The BIC drag strip is a member of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Worldwide Network, making the national championship an NHRA event. Call 17 450-000.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

AN EVENING WITH FRANK BRUNO When? February 24 Event? Sports Speaker MENA Venue? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Spend an evening with boxing legend and sporting personality, Frank Bruno. He will talk about his long and illustrious career (which spanned over 40 fights – including two against Iron Mike Tyson) and winning the WBC Heavyweight Title. The heart-warming, funny and insightful talk will cover Frank’s struggles in and outside the ring and how he rebuilt his career post boxing. There will also be a question and answer session as well as an opportunity for pictures. Comedian Jerry Earl will be the evening’s compere. Tickets cost BD30, which includes, dinner, the talk, Q&A, prizes and a sports memorabilia raffle. Doors open at 7.30pm and the dress code is smart casual. Call 33 886-952.

BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL GARDEN SHOW When? February 24-26 Event? Garden Show Venue? Bahrain International Convention & Exhibition Centre Since its establishment in 2004, the Bahrain International Garden Show has become a platform for experts and enthusiasts to further develop their expertise and knowledge with the latest best practices in the industry. It is also an occasion for potential investors to for Agricultural Development, is a leading seek profitable platform in Bahrain and the Arabian Gulf agricultural investment opportunities. and is also home to the largest annual Most people lead busy lives in urban flowershow. BIGS has contributed to the locations, with limited time, energy and development of skills and knowledge of space to create gardens. Such individuals agricultural experts and enthusiasts may be surprised that there are many through providing the ideal environment gardening ideas that they can implement for the exchange of experiences and with minimum effort and cost. Small showcasing the latest agricultural gardens can produce volumes of food, techniques. The show has provided a flowers, fragrance, beauty and require boost to the agricultural sector and has little time to manage or maintain. Urban had a positive impact on increasing its gardeners with a windowsill, indoor pot, contribution to the national economy. It balcony, veranda, courtyard or back has also helped create opportunities to garden can all grow edibles for the form partnerships between local and kitchen table and fragrant flowers. international organisations in this growing At the show, beginner gardeners and field. Visitors include VIPs, architects, professionals will benefit from the variety consultant engineers, academics, of displays relating to gardening in a small developers, professionals from various space including: design ideas for roof and sectors and students of schools and terrace gardening, container gardening, universities, as well as lovers of vertical gardens and raised bed gardening. agriculture and consumers. The Bahrain International Garden Show (BIGS), organised by the National Initiative Call 17 558-800. 36 February 2017

SPRING OF CULTURE 2017 When? February 25-April Event? Various Venue? Various The Spring of Rodrigo y Gabriela perform at last year’s event Culture is back with a jam-packed agenda of exciting shows that include dance, theatre, art, music, and other cultural activities to be held across the island. These happenings highlight Bahrain’s rich cultural heritage and unique historic and civil landmarks, while, at the same time, presenting the country’s boundless opportunities for education, exploration and entertainment! The Spring of Culture is organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the Economic Development Board, and the Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture and Research, in collaboration with Albareh Art Gallery, Al Riwaq Art Space and La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art. The event coincides with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities’ new slogan ‘Our Year of Archaeology’, which highlights the archaeological heritage of Bahrain and introduces it to local and international audiences. More details will be announced soon. Visit @springofculture and springofculture.org.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa

Gagan Soori & Paul

Shop Bahrain

Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, launched the Shop Bahrain festival at Bahrain Bay. One of the many attractions at the festival

Arpan, Gassan & Burak

Premier BTM Ad_Wembley_125mm x 191mm.pdf

1/26/17

Ahmed, Mohammed, Nawaf & Yousif

4:40 PM

Anca & Urs

Ali & Mohammed

CMY

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February 2017 37

afterdark happenings

CLIP ART When? February 2 Event? DJ Video Launch Venue? Klub 360

When? February 2 Event? Aquarius Birthday Celebration Venue? Café Amsterdam Are you a February baby? Then this one’s for you. The guys from Fuelvip invite you to get together with other Aquarians to celebrate your big day. Music’s from birthday boy DJ Sami Dee and DJ Miled. Entry BD10 for gents, ladies free before 10.30pm. E Call 39 557-687 / 37 733-748.

Three of the island’s favourite DJs get together for the launch their latest video clip release, Khameeskom Falla. The trio are renowned DJ Outlaw, right, who has been in the music business 20 years; Jussam Aseem aka Flipp or Flipperachi, known as one of the few passionate and devoted Arab rappers in the region; and Kuwaiti singer Nawaf Fahed, better known as Daffy, who has released several singles and albums with Kuwait hip-hop crew Army of One. Playing alongside them are DJs Santi and Westside. Tickets cost BD10 for ladies and BD20 for men and are available from Virgin Megastore or Klub 360. Call 17 360-360.

MUSIC MANN

When? February 3 Event? Mann Live Performance Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Los Angeles-based hip-hop star Dijon Shariff Thames, aka Mann, is set to thrill crowds with an electrifying performance on stage. Since arriving on the rap scene in 2008, Mann has released four albums and six mix tapes, having collaborated with the likes of 50 Cent, Ty Dolla $ign, Skeme, Shawn Chrystopher, Jason Derulo, Audio Push, Kid Ink, Kram D, Jermaine Dupri, T-Pain and many others. He is known for hit songs such as Buzzing featuring 50 Cent and Get it Girl with T-Pain. Pre-sale tickets are BD10 for men or BD15 at the door. Ladies enter free. Call 17 111-999.

OOH LA LA When? February 9 Event? Nights in Paris Venue? ART Rotana Amwaj Islands Transition back in time and space to the ‘City of Love’ with a Parisianthemed party at Cellar 59 that will surely put you in the right mood for Valentine’s Day. Witness an extraordinary performance by talented artists Arlenis and Fabien and then DJs Katrin Love, above, and Boudi will stir things up on the dance floor with an eclectic mix of beats to keep you fuelled for the rest of the evening. Tickets cost BD10 for men, ladies get in free and the event starts at 9.30pm. Call 16 000-111.

ICONS OF ROCK When? February 10 Event? Queen vs Meatloaf Tribute Venue? JJ’s Irish Bar & Restaurant Gear up for the ultimate duel between two legendary voices in rock music – Queen and Meatloaf, performed by talented artist Adrian Marks. Expect to hear the favourites such as We Are the Champions and Bat Out of Hell as well as a few surprises – real fans get ready to sing along. The regular after-brunch party kicks off with DJ Tripz and Toxic Band in the afternoon with Messrs Mercury and Loaf taking the stage later. Guys pay BD4 at the door, ladies get in free.

When? February 2 Event? Teknologik Venue? Brazil Lounge Time to techno, join DJs Ali Bakhtiar and Fawazo for a night of techno tunes and love the madness. E Call 36 161-650. When? February 2 Event? Drum & Dance Venue? Torino Restaurant & Lounge LED percussionist Geo Safix will be flying in for one night to make some noise alongside house DJ Mysterioo Arif. E Call 77 666-688 / 33 890-788. When? February 2 Event? DJ Video Launch Venue? Klub 360 E Call 17 360-360. When? February 3 Event? Must Live Venue? Polo Gastropub The metal rockers take to the stage for the first time since October for what promises to be an awesome night. Entry, as always, is free. E Call 17 725-000. When? February 3 Event? Mann live performance Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa E Call 17 111-999. When? February 9 Event? Night in Paris Venue? ART Rotana Amwaj Islands E Call 16 000-111. When? February 10 Event? Queen vs Meatloaf Tribute Venue? JJ’s Irish Bar & Restaurant E Call 33 843-005.

Call 33 843-005. 38 February 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdark happenings

LOVE ON THE CARDS When? February 16 Event? Kings and Queens Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

When? February 16 Event? Kings and Queens Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa E Call 17 111-999.

Celebrate the day of love on the following weekend like royalty at this kings and queens-themed party. Three of the island’s favourite local talents will grace the decks with their fabulous beats – Swif, right, FatZee and Sham, guaranteed to make you bust some groovy moves. The evening is being organised by Groundrulez and the dress code is fabulous, so a good night out is guaranteed.

When? February 18 Event? Reggae Bashment Venue? Glamour Lounge, Al Safir Hotel E Call 36 869-843. When? February 23-24 Event? Secret Police tribute band Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel Bahrain E Call 17 713-000. When? February 24 Event? Brazilian Carnaval When? Café Amsterdam E Call 17 007-404.

Call 17 111-999.

STIR IT UP

When? February 18 Event? Reggae Bashment Venue? Glamour Lounge, Al Safir Hotel

Reggae legend Bob Marley’s music will be celebrated in the month of the great man’s birth, with a visit from DJ Lyta, right, all the way from Kenya. A warm-up set by house DJ Jomex will set the mood for the evening along with selector Boju Juma. The awardwinning DJ Lyta first started mixing in 2012 as a hobby and has since played sets all over the world. Streetblast Volume 1 was the breakout mix that led him to stardom. Entry is BD5.

ELLO, ELLO, ELLO When? February 23-24 Event? Secret Police Tribute Band Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel Bahrain Back from the UK by popular demand, The Secret Police will be putting on yet another spectacular show. They have been performing their uncannily authentic tribute to The Police since 1996, touring the Middle East, Holland, Belgium and many more countries. Known for their infectious style, they have come up with a unique version of the original band’s songbook, which always gets audiences asking for more. Tickets are BD5 in advance or BD7 at the door on Thursday. For the Friday brunch, tickets are for BD30 inclusive of the show.

Call 36 869-843. Call 17 713-000.

RIO ROCKING When? February 24 Event? Brazilian Carnaval When? Café Amsterdam Vibes is back and channelling the South American carnival theme for a showstopping afternoon and evening of great fun. First up is the Carnaval Brunch with a Mardi Gras atmosphere in the garden, food truck, live cooking stations, magic show and games. Then from 6pm till midnight Amsterdam goes Brazilian with a samba dance show, headlining DJ and lots more. Dress code is Rio Carnival, so pretty much anything goes; the more feathers and sequins the better and there’ll be a prize for best costume. The brunch costs BD35 including drinks from the Mardi Gras bar. Entry to the after-party is BD10 in advance and BD15 on the door. Call 17 007-404. 40 February 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

SAILING TO SUCCESS LIZ O’REILLY Entrepreneur Mark Fernandes shares the lessons that have taken his company from a start-up to a regional force in under 10 years.

Mark Fernandes

“A

company’s most important resource is its people,” that’s the bottom line from Mark, and it’s a familiar one, a similar philosophy to that other noted businessman, Richard Branson. And, like Branson, it’s an ethos Mark keenly adopts at every level of his company Celerity Shipping & Forwarding Co which, since its launch in 2008, has grown to employ 24 people in Bahrain as well as having offices in Qatar and Kuwait with eight staffers in each. Having come to Bahrain from Mumbai in 1995 to work as an accountant in the shipping industry, Mark quickly realised the world of finance was not for him. He moved into sales before heading to Kuwait to join the Al Bader Group in 2003. He was promoted to general manager of one of the group’s companies and in 2008 he and chairman Esam Al-Bader decided to launch Celerity, along with Bahraini partner Abdulrahman Amin. Of the name, he explains: “We asked staff to come up with name suggestions and one of the women suggested Celerity, which means speed. Our logo is the sail fish, which 42 February 2017

Mark with workers

is the fastest fish in the sea. It’s always a talking point.” Celerity deals with both shipping and forwarding and has warehousing in Bahrain as well as port offices in Qatar, launched in 2009 and a Kuwait operation which was established in 2014. Mark says: “When we launched in 2008, it was during a recession and people were saying we wouldn’t survive two years – but we have grown almost 100 per cent in terms of staff and business since then and we are part of LINK [the global network of forwarders] which deals with the strongest agent in each country and is in 68 different locations around the world. “That’s a big deal and all credit must go to our staff. We have a positive, proactive, enthusiastic young sales team who are all under 30 and led by a very experienced Bahraini manager. We have a good retention rate and like to promote from within. The vision is that someday the junior staff will lead – we are making new leaders.” He adds that Celerity is very much in favour of equal opportunities, employing and promoting people on the basis of ability rather than sex or ethnicity; in fact the sales manager is a

ALSO THIS MONTH: 44 FLYING HIGH 50 A GRAIN OF SAND

Bahraini female who started out as an admin assistant and now runs the team. The company puts strong emphasis on training and courses in similar organisations but Mark adds that learning all aspects of the business is also important. Having worked across the board, he explains: “I think as an entrepreneur you should know the finance side of business, which is very important, as well as sales and operations. In order to lead, you need to know every part of your business. I believe each position is as important as the other. Sales is, of course, the engine of a business but in accounts you need credit control – there’s no point in making sales if you can’t collect the payment!” He puts this into practice by taking office and sales staff down to the loading docks and is not afraid to get his own hands dirty. Mark is up for the challenge of future expansion with an eye towards both Africa and the USA. “I want Celerity to be on the international map as one of the key players within the logistics industry; that’s the vision of the company. I look at multinationals within this business and I think ‘they started somewhere’. My vision is to see my staff, in years to come, heading up different countries!” While recognising that the industry has been hit hard by the global economic downturn, particularly evidenced by the bankruptcy of former giant Hanjin Shipping last year, Mark feels this has been a wake-up call, helping to consolidate international operations with companies merging and smaller vessels being used on less profitable routes to drive demand. And he’s confident about the future in the Kingdom, saying: “Bahrain has always been a healthy market; we get tremendous support from the government and ministries for medium-sized businesses. The credit crunch was, of course, a major issue but not as much as for other countries. Recent issues have subsided to an extent, which is encouraging investment. I feel there is a lot of growth to come in Bahrain, so I am very positive about the future.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Staff Party Dilmun Club held its annual staff party at its premises. Dilmun Club staff

Nasser, Jayan, Simon & Mark

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Rio, Zeman & Raine

Shailesh & Tej

February 2017 43

interview

FLYING HIGH APPLE SHARMA From a successful career in the airlines to being an established entrepreneur, owner and founder of bader models, Bader Yousif Murad, chats about how his dreams took flight.

ader lives and breathes aircraft. While most young children have many hobbies, Bader had just the one growing up – building aeroplanes – from as young as six years old. “I became good at it at the age of 10 to 12, but there were limited supplies of models back then in the ‘70s, and I used to work with whatever I had available,” he says. His passion for collecting aircraft models started when a neighbour gifted him a plastic airline replica, and there was no looking back. He continued collecting and building models, and dreamed of becoming a pilot. But it wasn’t meant to be, as he discovered that he is severely colour blind. Taking this challenge head on, he went on to study aviation management in America, followed by a master’s degree in aviation aerospace management from Florida Institute of Technology. He then joined Gulf Air and worked as a senior manager – Economic Fleet Planning – studying and comparing new aeroplanes for almost 30 years, from 1985 to 2013. The inspiration for bader models came when he was at university. “When I was a student, I used to build models in my dorm and sell them to students and collectors,” he says. “Then I started selling them to a shop in New York, where I used to buy models from. I knew what was missing and which were hard to get. I became popular and everybody knew that Bader makes aeroplane models. “So when I came to Bahrain, I started a small workshop and sent the models to the same shop in New York – the distributor loved them.” Bader’s popularity grew almost instantly and he started receiving orders from Japan, Australia, South Africa, the US and Europe soon after establishing his company in 1998. His product range includes aircraft, yacht and architectural models and accessories, and his 44 February 2017

Bader Yousif Murad

Bader Par Avion line

Cratftsman at work

new line, Bader Par Avion, features leather aviator bags and jackets – all sold online. Talking about the expertise that goes into building these models, Bader says: “You have to have the skill. It’s a combination of several things – first, it’s the skill of carving; second, is to know the aviation history; and the third one is your marketing strategy.” The factory is based in Arad and various materials are used for production. “For aeroplanes, we usually use 95 per cent wood and five per cent metal,” he explains. “We use mahogany as it’s easy to carve. For architectural models, we use all materials – you name it – metal, plastic, acrylic and wood. Six different artists work on one plane for a desktop-size model and it takes about six to seven weeks to build.” With a team of 15 people, Bader is keenly involved in the creative process, especially when he’s introducing something new for the aviation buffs. He personally designs all aviator accessories, from airline awards to photo frames, book ends, coat hooks, bottle openers and more. Bader’s passion for collecting didn’t go unnoticed and he was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for his extensive collection of civil aircraft, in 2000.

Architectural model

Coincidentally, his vast collection, which was then numbered at 1,105, also happens to be his street address. His current collection stands at several thousand. Of his personal favourites, he says: “I like the classic props and early jets from the ‘40s era until the mid ‘70s. That’s the real time of aviation. “My favourite airline, not necessarily because they have the best service, but because of the history and what they went through, is probably British Airways. And Pan Am – it played a major role in aviation development early in the ‘30s and ‘40s.” Bader plans to showcase his collection by creating a unique museum and an aviationthemed café in Bahrain and take it internationally as a franchise. A self-motivated man, he advises young entrepreneurs to follow their heart and not be discouraged by negative criticism. In his spare time, he enjoys being with his four children and listening to ‘70s and ’80s music. Bader’s future looks rosy, literally and metaphorically, as he eagerly awaits a pair of newly-invented glasses for people with colour blindness. We wish him luck! Visit www.badermodels.com and www. baderparavion.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Jalil, Sophia & Abbas

Romel, Peachy & Martin

French Artist Exhibition A painting exhibition was held featuring artist, Aimé Venel, at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art . Aime Venel, Janan & HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre

Sophia, Noora & Faika

Jean Philippe & Luise

Maeve, Azza & Barbara

Carla, Ugo, Christophe & Judith Jawad

Nedal & Sadiq

Jacques & Judith

Janet & Nabila

Eibhlin & Carol

Irina & Nimfa

Group hosted the painting exhibition of Painting Exhibition Jawad Aimé Venel at Jawad Dome. Faisal Jawad, Ugo, Aimé Venel, Abdul Hussain Faraj & Adel Gamdhi

Rabih, Aimé Venel & Ugo

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Payaam, Haseen & Deepty

Ahmed, Janeann & Wolfgang

Clothhilde & Rosiane

February 2017 45

interview

Zouhair Farhat

ON A SURE FOOTING BEHNAZ SANJANA BTM caught up with Zouhair Farhat, general manager of the Frsan Group, who oversees the smooth functioning of the Frsan Palace Hotel on Bahrain’s popular Exhibitions Avenue.

veteran of the hospitality industry, Zouhair Farhat has been serving in it for 47 years. Starting his illustrious career with the Hilton chain of hotels in Kuwait in 1970, his work has taken him all over the Middle East, Africa, some parts of Europe and America, as well as his home country, Lebanon. “During my time as cabin crew for Kuwait Airways, I used to frequent Bahrain’s airport,” he reminisces. “At the time, Bahrain was the most popular place in the Gulf – not Dubai. All the staff at the airport were Bahraini, and they were so humble and downto-earth. The locals here have a great attitude and a heart full of good intentions. I have rarely come across people like Bahrainis. I used to love landing here.” Destiny brought him to Bahrain’s shores for the pre-opening and opening of Frsan Palace Hotel, and he has been here ever since. He holds the owner of the Frsan Group, Fadhel Albado, in high regard, as an inspiring visionary who has worked very hard to build the diversified empire that he owns today. Zouhair says that having seen the very skeleton of the property’s structure in cement, he is proud of how far it has come today. “In those days, I even acted as the supervisor and foreman for the construction. And today I am where you 46 February 2017

see me,” he states. “We have 11 outlets, from the swimming pool to the coffee shop and numerous restaurants offering a variety of cuisines to suit our guests’ tastes – Lebanese, Moroccan, Russian, Indian, Filipino and a special seafood restaurant. The food is cooked by chefs hailing from those particular regions and specialising in these cuisines.” Zouhair holds a doctorate in human resources and a master’s degree in hotel management, which has proven to be a winning combination in running the bustling enterprise. He manages the function of 120 rooms of varying categories. Speaking about the scale of operations, he says: “Even within the single room category, we have the option of a large or regular-size room. Similarly, double rooms are available in twin, queen or king-size bed configurations. “We have a whole floor dedicated to the spa, a fully equipped gymnasium, steam room, Jacuzzi and sauna. Many guests utilise our separate men’s and women’s salon services and also enjoy unwinding with billiards at our sports club. The spa is run by professionally trained therapists only. The hotel can also undertake small and large banquets, meetings and conferences.” The foresight of the management has ensured

that the hotel is built with guests’ potential needs and requirements in mind. For instance, there is a separate wing detached from the night club or other leisure outlets that can be given over to large groups. “This is ideal for sporting teams and other high-volume bookings, where the management of the group needs to have adequate control over them,” says Zouhair. Thanks to its high ideals and standards, the hotel has successfully risen above the reputation that other hotels in the area have gained over the years. “We are a first-class hotel offering guests highly competitive tariffs for four-star public area and room amenities, and we are proud to uphold our clean image. We undergo ministry checks regularly and each time we are awarded the highest points,” he adds. He believes that Frsan Palace has stayed the talk of the town since its opening, thanks to apositive word-of-mouth publicity. The clientele includes people from government, embassies and corporates. Come summer, there will be special deals available on rooms, food and beverages. Zouhair has high aspirations for the hotel, and is grateful for the support of the owner and his staff in making Frsan Palace Hotel a success, saying: “I wish the very best for them, even when I am not here in the future!” www.bahrainthismonth.com

A World of Elegance Comfort & Luxury For Reservations Call: +973 17295555 www.frsanpalacehotelbh.com email: frsanpalacehotel@gmail.com

interview

LEADING BY EXAMPLE PUJA TIWARI Meet Betul Bovya, an inspirational figure making her mark in an industry that is largely male dominated. She talks about her journey, aspirations for Coral Bay and future plans.

aving recently joined Coral Bay as business development manager, the Turkish national is a seasoned hospitality connoisseur with a plethora of international and local market experience. She has always been passionate about travelling, learning and embracing different cultures. After experiencing the markets in Dubai, Istanbul and London, Betul is implementing her dynamic plans to increase Coral Bay Resort’s allure to locals and tourists alike. “I worked for Burj Al Arab in Dubai and then moved to Zuma and Cipriani in London before going to Istanbul. I was with Mövenpick and the Kempinski chain for a while, and then managed some big clubs and restaurants in Istanbul before moving to the sunny skies of Bahrain,” she says. “For the moment, I am engaging in small touch-ups to attract more people, such as promotions on our rooms and restaurants.” Resident of Bahrain for two years, Betul has studied and observed the needs of the people in the Kingdom. “I know from experience what people are looking for, and we are doing our best to target more young crowds and families through the use of strategic social media marketing,” she says. Enlightening us on Coral Bay’s current offers, 48 February 2017

Betul Bovya

Betul says: “A set menu for lunch is offered at La Taverna for BD5, and a business lunch runs on weekdays at Al Rayes. We have an all-youcan-eat pizza promotion at La Taverna from Sunday to Wednesday afternoon for BD8. “Fishmania does a fabulous weekend brunch along with unlimited shrimp every Monday for BD18++ per person, and the restaurant can be booked for private events. With a maritime theme and freshly caught seafood on offer, it is an excellent venue for any occasion. The views of the sea and Manama skyline only add to its charm. Also, private parking is now available for visitors.” She also pays heed to guest feedback to ensure exceptional and consistent service. “Feedback helps us to identify where we are lacking,” she explains. “Having four restaurants, a beach and Bahrain’s first floating hotel with five-star facilities gives us an edge over competitors.”

It is no surprise that hospitality is a gruelling yet rewarding profession. What fascinates Betul most is the variety that comes with it. “There is something new to do every day, and one has to be ever-ready to take on new challenges and tackle last-minute decisions,” she says. “Over the years, I have learnt to go with the flow and think with clarity. Because it is a people’s industry, I have also realised that I can read others quite well, usually from the first few seconds of meeting them.” In future, she hopes to open a healthy corner at the resort, stemming from her passion for holistic nutrition. “I am studying to further certify myself as a personal nutritionist, so I work on my studies whenever I can,” she says. “This goes hand in hand with my job because I can look into opening an eatery for the health conscious in the future.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

Jason Carter

Filming the musicians

A GRAIN OF SAND CHARLIE HOLDING Jason Carter is a man of many talents. This guitarist, composer and documentary-maker possesses a wanderlust that has taken him all over the world. His latest endeavour comprises a short film that will culminate in a live concert in Bahrain.

he project – entitled ‘Grain of Sand’ – sees Jason collaborate with pearl divers from Dar Burshaid and Shabab Al Hidd and flute player Ahmed Al Ghanem to highlight the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage. “Pearl diving has played such a huge role in the development of Bahrain; it’s an integral part of the culture here, but very little is popularly known about the music it created,” he says. “Pearl diving was a precarious way of life, as many of the divers didn’t return home from sea. There are fantastic songs about preparing the boats, leaving loved ones behind and the vulnerability of life at sea.” The Gulf is widely known for its imposing skyscrapers and luxury hotels, but Jason believes the real beauty lies in the history of a place and the people who shaped it. He explains: “A pearl begins its life as a grain of sand. The same sand that is used in every tower block, every piece of glass in every building in the Gulf. The juxtaposition of the music of the pearl divers, in contrast with the development of the Gulf, and its current day culture, is a story that needs to be told.” 50 February 2017

Jason’s love of pearl diving ditties has grown steadily over the last 18 years and has seen him travel the entire Gulf, meeting with people and researching the history behind the music. He explains: “I first sat with pearl divers in a hut in Muharraq listening to their songs, chants and stories in 1999. There is something extremely primitive and poignant about their music. Just after this, the Arabian Gulf saw development at a pace previously deemed impossible. These primitive cultures transformed almost overnight from pearl traders and Bedouin dwellers to property tycoons and global traders. “But before all of this, there was pearl diving. Grain of Sand mirrors the fascinating dichotomy of cultural identity in the Arabian Gulf, from a heritage rich in the art of survival to the dizzying heights of the 21st century where nothing is impossible.” Another reason the concert and film are so unique is Jason’s instrument of choice, a harp guitar. This dual instrument provides a distinctive sound that Jason has been experimenting with for years. The musical collaboration is a labour of love for

Jason, who admits that harmonising is a particular challenge. He explains: “In the past, the music on the boats was a cappella with clapping but, now, it is accompanied with drums. That made it more of a challenge to collaborate, because the key is always changing. Luckily this type of music is not so much about technical accuracy, it’s about passion, and these guys definitely have lots of it.” A small filmmaking team from the UK is flying out to Bahrain to capture the rehearsal process and preparation for the show. This will be shown before the concert, which will also be filmed and added to the final cut. Jason hopes to showcase the finished product – with both English and Arabic subtitles – at local film festivals around the Gulf and, eventually, in Europe. He says: “Grain of Sand will endeavour to bring good news from the Middle East. This first film is about the Bahraini pearl divers and I hope it will be a springboard for telling other untold stories from this amazing region.” The concert will be held at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art on February 3 and starts at 9pm. Standard tickets are priced at BD20 while dinner and concert tickets cost BD33+. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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FROM A SINGLE BRICK IN 1991... WE HAVE GROWN INTO A HOUSE

telecomreview

The Future’s Fibre Optic Bahrain’s already progressive telecommunications market looks poised for a shake-up in the coming years with the comprehensive roll out of fibre optic broadband.

52 February 2017

The country’s Fourth National Telecommunications Plan, published by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) in 2016, sets out a strategy for the establishment of a fibre-based National Broadband Network (NBN) with the aim being able to offer ultra-fast broadband to 95 per cent of households and 100 per cent of businesses by the end of the plan’s three year period. To achieve this, the translated plan states: “Government considers that a single NBN infrastructure to deliver ultra-fast broadband products and services is preferable and efficient for a country of the size, population distribution and topology of Bahrain. This single network will be owned by a separate legal entity, which shall be legally and functionally separated from the Incumbent Operator, Bahrain Telecommunications Company (Batelco), which will supply wholesale products and services to all licensed operators in the Kingdom on a nondiscriminatory basis, and it will be awarded the right to deploy the NBN and to supply these wholesale products and services.” The change in structure will be carried out gradually and the plan emphasises that the TRA will work closely with the single network provider to ensure fair competition across the board for all telecoms operators. The stated ambition for the future is to develop Bahrain as an ICT and business hub for the region and the TRA recognises that competition in the marketplace is essential for this. Government policy

in this area is that no new individual mobile telecommunications licences will be issued over the plan period, giving the big three – Batelco, VIVA and Zain, the current licence holders – a period of stability in which to operate and invest. This would only change should the configuration of these operators alter. The report notes that the Kingdom is well served with existing connectivity and relatively low prices in comparison to prevailing international costs. VIVA provides users with a wide range of services both telephone and broadband on fixed line and mobile/ wireless. The company has 20 retail outlets stretched across the Kingdom and offers special deals for youth, Elite, home and business users. Its latest valueadded option is an insurance service covering instances from repairs to complete phone replacement. VIVA customers can also enjoy home entertainment with beIN SPORTS, an exclusive mobile live TV service enabling access to 49 premium live Indian TV channels in partnership with Yupp TV, the future of smart television with Apple TV. VIVA has also recently signed a long-term strategic partnership with Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company to supply ICT solutions for the company’s coming developments. Batelco also offers a variety of fixed line and mobile services across both telephone and broadband with 20-plus outlets taking in many of the island’s major malls and retail areas. It offers special mobile data packages aimed at the youth market and the Al Dana www.bahrainthismonth.com

Club for high-net-worth individuals, which gives access to exclusive offers and services as well as Gulf Air’s frequent flyer programme. The company recently launched the Batelco Mobile Payment service, which allows customers to make cardless purchases in store through their phone. There is also Google Direct Carrier Billing, allowing the purchase of games, apps, books and music from Google Play Store using a Batelco line, and Batelco TV, a complete home entertainment solution. Zain Bahrain entered the Kingdom’s telecoms market in 2003 as the second mobile service entrant. The company boasts innovative business practices and cutting-edge technology, putting Bahrain on the global telecommunications map with a string of firsts – the first country with nation-wide 3G, then 3.5G and WiMAX coverage. It has developed into a successful fixed wireless service operator offering full-spectrum corporate telecoms solutions, voice and data services to customers in the Kingdom. A report from www.budde.com, the largest telecommunications research site on the internet, found that the TRA has been making concerted efforts to improve telecommunication services and has conducted surveys in order to gauge citizen’s feedback with billing, particularly on international roaming, being identified as an area of particular concern. It said average revenues per user last year were around half the amount of 2008 but revenues from mobile

broadband are rising and now make up more than 35 per cent of the country’s total broadband revenues. The report found revenue generated by residential users of broadband is significantly higher than that from businesses – indicating that there are potential growth opportunities in the broadband enterprise sector for both wired and wireless services in Bahrain. And it concluded: “Going forward Bahrain is well positioned and supported by government to make the necessary changes and appropriate measures to ensure it remains one of the most progressive telecoms markets in the Middle East. The operators are now beginning to turn their attention towards Internet of Everything (IoT) initiatives including M2M (machine to machine) service offerings.”

Bharti & Robert

Bharti & Eldralyn

Store Opening

Apparel Group opened its first LC Waikiki store which was inaugurated by HE Hatun Demirer, Turkish Ambassador, at Seef Mall. The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Yunus, Sunil, Sabahata & Ahmed

Turgay, Canan, HE Hatun Demirer, Erkan & Serdar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Models at the fashion show

February 2017 53

telecomreview Ulaiyan Al Wetaid

VIVA

Best in Test One of the country’s foremost telecom providers is taking the lead with the strongest data and voice performance in Bahrain. VIVA Bahrain has emerged as the winner of the ‘Best in Test’ accolade for data and voice performance in P3 Communications’ latest study conducted across the Kingdom’s telecommunications operators. The survey is one of the most reliable sources for international technology consulting and comprehensive network testing. The industry-leading benchmark test, which covered major metropolitan areas and towns in Bahrain, has revealed the incredible levels of performance offered by VIVA’s best-in-class telecom services. Examined across ‘real world’ scenarios to gauge performance levels, VIVA took the national lead with its strong data and voice services scoring the highest in the Kingdom. The company’s CEO, Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, says: “We are delighted to receive this certificate which reinforces our commitment to providing the widest and fastest telecom network that supports our customers’ endeavours and caters to their daily needs. We look forward to building on our success and continuing to embrace 54 February 2017

opportunities that work towards the development of the modern Bahrain.” The P3 tests cover a comprehensive range of metrics, the results comparing the ordinary user’s experience of each network through a series of measurements taken while driving, walking and indoors. Providing a fair, transparent and neutral evaluation of the networks across consistent test environments, the benchmark has become the leading resource for operators internationally and is highly anticipated by the community. About VIVA VIVA Bahrain offers a wide range of services from fixed line to mobile, wireless and broadband Internet and operates 20 retail outlets serving every corner of the Kingdom. The company ensures all packages cater to the youth market and younger generation, who are heavy data consumers and demand fast speed Internet access. With both prepaid and post-paid plans, customers can enjoy amazing value with more data, free social media access, unlimited VIVA to VIVA calls and SMS, and minutes to other networks. There is also a wide portfolio of mobile add-ons which allow young customers to enjoy seamless connectivity at all times while

providing them the flexibility of getting more of exactly what they demand, whether that is extra minutes, extra data or extra SMS. VIVA Elite customers benefit from free access to more than 800 airport lounges around the world. They also enjoy special rates at the Royal Golf Club as well as discounts at various prestigious hotels around Bahrain. Through its partnership with Azadea Group, VIVA also offers Elite customers fashion and dining discounts. For home users, VIVA offers the ultimate home broadband plan for families. There’s more data for streaming, browsing and downloading favourite movies and music, or living the action with the best online gaming experience. Customers also enjoy a host of freebies on the fastest and widest 4G LTE network in Bahrain. The company has also introduced seven new business broadband plans, offering a range of options to match business needs. The plans provide a high data allowance with multiple value-added services that cater to expanding businesses. For the future, the company’s plans to boost speed rates will be brought forth in light of the national plan to deploy super-fast fibre optic networks and fifth generation connections over the next few years. www.bahrainthismonth.com

seeffocus

Welcome to the High Life

travellers, enabling them to undertake hasslefree journeys backed by excellent service, key alliances and innovative products. The Denta Derma Rim Bogari Center offers a plethora of dental services at the hands of highly skilled experts, who use the latest technology in the world of dentistry to give patients a dazzling smile and renewed selfconfidence in minimal time. Satiate Your Stomach: There is no dearth of great restaurants and cafés in this active urban pocket, along with swanky lounges, bistros and bars that make for exciting nightlife. Whether it’s a cup of coffee, a five-course meal, or anything in between, it’s the place to be. Hevea Café at Al Aali Shopping Complex is a convenient pit stop for delectable Indochine cuisine and to-die-for desserts. Cake Boutique offers marvellous baked treats, be it for intimate gatherings or stylish soirées. At Monkey Cookies anytime is treat time, where one can bite into a wide range of heavenly crumbs.

BEHNAZ SANJANA There’s mighty good reason for the Seef district to be one of the favourite localities for the country’s residents. This special report encapsulates its best offerings. Ask any newbie on the island if they’ve been to or heard of the Seef district and, in all probability, you’ll be answered in the affirmative. The word ‘Seef’ means coast or shore in Arabic, and the area has long been the home ground for the Kingdom’s business and recreational activities. High-end shopping, fantastic food and beverages, commercial centres, hospitality hubs and residential refuges — it is the upmarket locality that harbours it all. Shop Till You Drop: If there’s something that underlines the essence of Seef, it’s the plethora of international brands the district presents to islanders in the form of its many malls. Whether you are a fan of the high street or haute couture, this area offers the most effective retail therapy. www.bahrainthismonth.com

If you’re looking to spruce up your interiors, Casa Cucina’s home and kitchen collections boast premium products with elegant designs and durability that’ll infuse your house with style and sophistication. Raymond, the gents’ outfitters, from the same parent group, offers duds that are the epitome of style. Al Aali Shopping Complex is where you can browse apparel and accessories from top labels like Roberto Cavalli, Armani Jeans, Moschino, Red Valentino and Jimmy Choo, to name just a few. Seef Mall, its immediate neighbour, and City Centre Bahrain, further down the road, both provide brands that appeal to various preferences and pockets. They also house multiplexes screening the latest blockbusters. Busy Bees: Seef is the playground for local and multinational conglomerates offering a range of products and services. Many financial institutions, ministries and telecommunications service providers have their headquarters here. Local firm, House of Travel, also has a branch in this strategic location. The company seamlessly caters to the needs of corporate and holiday

Hospitality Haven: Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain is an award-winning property that attracts business and leisure travellers not only for its close proximity to the airport and other places of interest, but also for its fully furnished goldstandard serviced apartments designed for guests who desire greater space and sophistication in town. Residents enjoy free Wi-Fi, spa and sauna facilities, an in-house restaurant with 24-hour room service, conference and meeting rooms, business centre, health club, kids’ club, salon, free valet parking, and a direct entrance to Seef Mall. Watch out for the unbeatable promotions and packages that this hotel has in store for you over the coming months. Home Is Here: Seef Terraces is an upscale residential project that has already turned heads internationally and won prestigious awards for its overall structural superiority and individual apartment units. Construction is in full swing on the 29-storey freehold property. Bahrain’s favourable environment, along with the superb range of lifestyle amenities that this development offers, make it popular with locals and investors from across the GCC. February 2017 55

bystander

Corporate Dinner Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) held a management dinner at the Mรถvenpick Hotel. BAS management and staff

Salman Al Mahmeed, Yousif Hanafi & Msallam El Nabulsi

Mohamed A Rahim Abu Saif & Mohammed Abdulla Janahi

Maryam Ali Sowaileh, Mohamed Janahi, Osama Mohamed Helmy Elmorsey, Mohamed Ateeq Salem, Bala Subramanian Rajamani, Jamil Isa Salman & Hisham Mubarak Al Sanad

Nadia Bouslama & Maryam Sameer Mohamed Ismaeel Rajab Ali

Osama Mohamed Helmy Elmorsey & Maryam Ali Sowaileh

Duaij K Al Thawadi & Hisham Mubarak Al Sanad

Dulio Miguel Reis De Freitas

Service Award Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) held a long service awarding ceremony for its employees at the Mรถvenpick Hotel. BAS management & staff

Salman Al Mahmeed & Khalid A Rahim Al Balooshi

56 February 2017

Romulo Cayabyab Aquino

Andrew Ronald Bishop

Khulood Rashid Shaheen

Shukralla & Hussain

www.bahrainthismonth.com

seeffocus K HOME & KITCHEN

A Favourite Expands Kumar’s Group has long been one of the Kingdom’s most popular retailers and wholesalers of kitchen equipment and supplies for the home, hotel, restaurant and commercial operator. Now the company has expanded with the launch of Casa Cucina, offering customers even greater choice with premium-quality home and kitchen collections. Casa Cucina is the place for those looking for stylish additions to their home or work space. Its collections are unique and elegantly designed to perfection, giving you the option to personalise your living or work areas with a touch of creative living. Now in Bahrain, some of the finest collections available include: Unique pieces of artwork, statues and figurines from Tom’s Collection, Germany. Premium selections from well-known Swiss artist Pascal Knapp, who designed the original CowParade installation from Germany.

Stylish and practical designs of glass jars and stainless steel pots from Kilner, UK, as well as glassware and gift articles, dinnerware, tableware, cookware and kitchenware from Europe. Casa Cucina is committed to providing its customers with the highest quality home and kitchen decor to make a remarkable impression in your home.

Visit the showroom at Seef District, opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard. Call 17 296-363.

RAYMOND

A History of Fashion A brand that has dressed stylish gentlemen for almost a century is expanding in the Kingdom. A beautiful, rich heritage that has been nurtured by dreamers and passed down through generations of visionaries. With an inspiring story, engraved in the pages of history, Raymond truly is an iconic brand that evokes timelessness. Known as a thorough gentleman’s brand, Raymond’s fashion sensibility has been outfitting the complete man for over 90 years. Raymond’s dedication to staying relevant and ensuring customers are leading the field not only in fashion but also style and quality has gained the brand generations of loyal followers. Raymond gentlemen can make their choices for individuality and experiment with the latest offerings, secure in the knowledge that every option will lead to a stylish look. Incorporated in 1925, Raymond has always provided customers with world-class products and Bahrain favourite Kumar’s WLL represents Raymond in the Kingdom with two showrooms at Exhibition Road and Al Hadrami Road, Manama. A third grand showroom will open in Seef offering premium suiting fabrics along with a made-to-measure concept. Visit Raymond in Seef District, opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard. Call 17 296-363. 58 February 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Family and Friends Get-together The family and friends of the late Faieq Alzayani gathered together at his home in Budaiya to celebrate his life, joys, success and achievements.

George, Ebrahim Naema, Dr Faisal Alzayani, Dr Saad Al Shami, Faiza Alzayani, Dr Amal Alzayani & Linda Alzayani

Younes Abdeen, May Mahmoud, Sara Al Sharif & Naylah F Alzayani

Lujain Shaheen

Khalifa F Alzayani, Mohammed Fareed, Noora Al Zain, Mariam Dashti & Ali Fareed

Naylah & Ali

Mohammed Alzayani

Hashim Karimi & Ali

Jenny Al Khalifa, Eibhlen Crosse, Jo Karimi & Yvonne Al Gaoud

Mayan, Huda, Dina & Reem

Mobile Payment Launch Ithmaar Bank signed a memorandum

of understanding with Batelco and Arab Financial Services (AFS) to launch the Kingdomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first mobile payment service. B Chandrasekhar, Sael F Al Waar, Muna Al Hashimi, Abdul Hakim Al Mutawa & David

Sameer, Ebru, Muna, Mike & Osama

60 February 2017

Mohammed, Kumain & Osama

Mohammed

Muhja, Nashwa & Manar

Abdulla

www.bahrainthismonth.com

seeffocus HOUSE OF TRAVEL

Fly Me to the Moon This travel agency has become a name to rely on, thanks to its impeccable customer service, strategic alliances and worldwide reach. Starting in 1991 with a modest team of only five committed individuals, House of Travel today has come to be recognised as the preferred travel and tourism partner for corporates, families and leisure travellers in Bahrain. In the journey spanning over two decades, the company has grown to a team of 65 employees spread over five offices across the Kingdom, diligently serving the needs of more than a thousand satisfied clients. The travel agency has proudly contributed to promoting tourism in the Kingdom, as well as bringing global destinations, hotel properties, theme parks and heath spas within easy reach of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s avid holidaymakers. Its strong network and key partnerships around the world have helped it to continually deliver excellent service, which in turn has become a testimony of commitment to its

valued clients. House of Travel will be celebrating 25 years of success with a series of high profile events this year, from March to December, bringing together partners and patrons from the island and around the world. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique concept branch at Seef Corner sports a modern theme and playful colour palette. Its strategic location is convenient for families and individuals who seek the best travel solutions and holiday packages available. Experienced tour consultants assist customers to design their vacations from start

to finish, so you can travel with peace of mind. The Seef branch also offers visa assistance, known as Easy Visa, for countries such as Russia, the UK, the US, Singapore and the Schengen region. Call 17 117-417.

Join us celebrating.. now in Seef Area

17117417 holidays@hot.bh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

@hotlatest @houseof_travel

February 2017 61

bystander

Master Chef Cucina Italiana held the launching ceremony of its fourth season of Italian Master Chef at its premises in Juffair. Management, guests & contestants

HE Domenico Bellato & Laura

Hemant Sharma & Rajesh

Vito, Ibrahim & Federico

Dr Sheryl & KM

Martina, Michela, Jagath & Daniela

Thomas & Pauly

Italiana & Fatema

Najm

Colour Me Bahrain Bahrain Road Runners held its annual Colour Me Bahrain run at Amwaj Marina. Participants at the event

Kate, Sienna & Emilia

62 February 2017

Ollie, Jordan, George & Kieran

Maddie, Erin & Dara

www.bahrainthismonth.com

seeffocus DENTA DERMA RIM BOGARI CENTER

The Evolution of Orthodontics It’s never too late to correct your set of pearly whites and look your very best. Dr Shadi Samawi at the Denta Derma Rim Bogari Center in Seef is a consultant orthodontist with a master’s in orthodontics from England. He lists some of the best ways you can get a winning smile. Damon System Dr Shadi specialises in the revolutionary Damon System, which is not just about braces and wires, but a whole new way of treating patients. Traditional treatment often requires the removal of healthy teeth and/or the use of palatal expanders to make space. This approach is often uncomfortable, takes longer, and can leave a narrower arch and a flat

profile. Damon smiles are full, natural 10-teeth smiles achieved with light biologically sensible forces, and are specifically designed to improve the overall facial result of patients. Benefits of the Damon technique: - It involves passive self-ligating braces that eliminate the need for elastic or metal ties, thereby facilitating easy oral hygiene during the period of treatment. - Light, high-technology, shape-memory wires move teeth faster and require fewer adjustments and appointments with the doctor. - The clinically proven method aligns teeth while enhancing one’s facial aesthetics with minimal discomfort. Clear Removable Aligners Another way to achieve a brilliant set of pearly whites is by using Clear Removable Aligners; a virtually undetectable way to enhance your smile without traditional braces. You can feel confident throughout the duration of the treatment, as most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them. The aligners are easy to handle and removable

while eating or for specific occasions. Inman Aligners This is the ultimate technique to straighten the front teeth within a matter of only six to nine weeks. They are removable, clear and easy to manage as well. The experts at the Denta Derma Rim Bogari Center believe this technique is a winning innovation in the field of orthodontics. Dr Shadi Samawi

Call 17 300-114.

Your Beauty Your Brand Flat 81, Blgd 1025, Road 3621 Block 436, Al Raya Building Seef District, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel.: +973 17 300 114 Fax: +973 17300115 Email: info@rimbogari.com Website: www.rimbogari.com www.dentaderma.com @drrimbogari

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2017 63

seeffocus

PEGASUS REAL ESTATE

Leading the Way Property developers, such as this conglomerate, have pioneered the shift of activity to the high-quality, affordable real estate sector. Expert assessments have found that valuebased real estate developments continue to drive demand and investments in Bahrain’s property market. The Dadabhai Group is on the front foot, with the much anticipated Juffair Heights being delivered on schedule and the underconstruction Seef Terraces, the company’s latest award-winning residential development, seeing an overwhelming response with more than 50 per cent of the apartments sold since its official launch late last year. Located in the heart of Bahrain’s Seef district, Seef Terraces is a 29-storey freehold tower comprising 173 studio, one-, two- and threebedroom luxury apartments with large private terraces offering a high-quality standard of living in a neighbourhood that blends housing, commercial and leisure spaces. The construction work on the family-oriented lifestyle project is moving ahead of schedule, with the 20th storey slab now erected. The target is to build three floor slabs every month, with completion expected by the end of this year followed by immediate handover to buyers. Managing director Shabeer Dadabhai believes the venture’s unique selling points are 64 February 2017

quality, space and lifestyle amenities in a prominent location at a good price. “We believe families shouldn’t have to pay dearly or compromise on space and convenience to live in a family-centric property like Seef Terraces. This forms our strategic approach towards developing best-in-class, value-generating residential communities,” he says. “We have understood the need of our buyers and investors and continue to see much interest from them to invest in the stable environment of Bahrain. Today’s buyers look at the overall value proposition, quality of the structure and timely delivery, and that is driving these buyers to our developments.” Highlights of the structure include many leisure and recreational activities, an outdoor landscaped play area, separate gyms for women and men and a grand infinity pool overlooking the sea on the rooftop level. The project’s exclusive sales agent, Pegasus Real Estate has attracted interest from buyers across the GCC because of the quality on offer and the prices being exceptionally competitive in proportion to the size of the apartments. This development has won two accolades at the latest Arabian Property Awards, the first one naming it ‘highly commended high rise residential project’ and the second for its individual apartment layouts. Juffair Heights, another award-winning project of the group, was handed over to

buyers from September last year. Launched in 2014 and comprising 376 apartments, the project was delivered as promised. With many owners now residing in their new homes and enjoying the facilities and amenities, shareholders have been able to earn healthy returns on their investments. Mr Dadabhai says: “Quality and value for money continue to drive investment interest in the property segment in Bahrain, suggesting that prospective buyers and owners have a range of options to choose from. It all boils down to the reputation of the developer, quality of build and the value proposition of the project.” Call 17 587-575 or email infost@ pegasusbahrain.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOTORING

A LASTING IMPRESSION CHARLIE HOLDING The car you drive says a lot about your personality and the new Audi A/S3 speaks volumes.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 66 A JEKYLL AND HYDE DRIVE 71 THE FUTURE IS COMING!

Audi S3

his stylish sedan is leading the charge when it comes to user-friendly infotainment and driver assistance systems. It comes as little surprise, then, that my day in this marvellous model made a lasting impression. Safety is paramount, especially when the weekend comes and the Kingdom’s roads are swarmed by an influx of our friends from across the causeway. Luckily, you’re in safe hands with the A/S3, which makes town and highway driving less daunting. The Audi adaptive cruise control is available as an option, while the Stop and Go feature is available as standard. Another new feature for the A3 family is the optional emergency assist. This system initiates braking down to a safe stop if, despite warnings, no steering activity is detected by the driver. The new cross traffic assist rear warns the driver about cross traffic when slowly backing out of a perpendicular parking space, for example. The highlight in the interior is the Audi virtual cockpit, which depicts the most important www.bahrainthismonth.com

information in high resolution on a TFT screen. The driver can switch between two views by pressing the ‘View’ button on the multifunction steering wheel. In classic mode, the instruments appear as large as the usual analogue displays. In infotainment mode, on the other hand, a central window provides more space for the navigation map or shows clearly arranged lists for the phone, radio and audio systems. When it comes to the exterior, Audi has spared no expense to create a car that screams sophistication. The interior is just as plush as usual and the ample space and fine finishes give the A3 an air of class and comfort that rivals other models in its class. This model doesn’t just look great, it performs well too. The A/S3 feels at home on the highway thanks to its smooth gear changes, impressive torque and ample power. Speaking of which, there is a choice of three gasoline engines with power output ranging from 115bhp to 190bhp. As an added bonus, the sporty S3 variant

boasts 4bhp more power. In addition, the engineers have integrated an S3-specific control system for the electronic stabilisation control system and multi-plate clutch. The 2.0 TFSI now generates 290bhp and with S-tronic delivers 380Nm in the wide range of 1,800 to 5,200rpm. Make no mistake about it, this model is designed for raw driving pleasure and it sprints from 0 to 100kmph in just five seconds. The S3’s handling is also worth bragging about. During my drive around the island I encountered some corners that were almost as sharp as Simon Cowell’s tongue; fortunately, the S3 took them like a champ. The low centre of gravity ensures this model sticks to the road like white on rice, even when taking a bend at relative speed. My only complaint is that I had to give the car back at the end of the day…unless, of course, the BTM publisher wants to give me a pay rise? To test drive the A3 or S3, call Audi Centre Bahrain on 17 459-933. February 2017 65

motoring

PORSCHE

A Jekyll and Hyde Drive CHARLIE HOLDING The chances are when you think about Porsche, you instantly imagine the 911 and with good reason – it’s an iconic vehicle with a rich heritage. However, after my test drive with the new Panamera, my mind has been wandering. Por-sha – there you go, that’s how to pronounce it properly, end of story. Luckily, you found that out painlessly, whereas I was corrected by Dr Gernot Döllner, vice president, Product Line Panamera, Porsche AG. Thankfully, he was a good sport about it when I met him during my test drive trip to Dubai. After spending a relaxing night at Nikki Beach Hotel, I awoke with gusto bright and early, ready to plonk myself in a gleaming new Panamera. Imagine my surprise when I was met by four different vehicles – variants of the 4S and the Turbo. Yay, it was petrolhead Christmas and it had come early! Featuring redeveloped engines, reinterpreted design and a new range of assistance systems, the second generation of Porsche’s luxury fourdoor saloon is a sight to behold. A road tour (incorporating various routes around Dubai) was organised to demonstrate the Panamera’s ability to bridge the gap between an ambitious sports car and a comfortable sedan, no small feat. In my opinion, the Panamera has what can best be described as a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde personality. One part is smooth sophistication and the other is a raging beast…both wrapped up in a pretty package – an exceptionally redesigned package. 66 February 2017

And, speaking of which, there’s honestly not much left of the outgoing model, save the badge on the bonnet. Practically every piece of the Panamera has been redesigned, improved or tweaked. New six- and eight-cylinder twinturbo engines have been introduced to produce more power, whilst significantly improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. Following an overhaul of the model’s concept, new technical advancements, such as rear axle steering, electromechanical roll stabilisation and a three-chamber air suspension, have been introduced. Meanwhile, inside, a completely new display and control concept greets the driver and passengers upon entry. Touch-sensitive surfaces replace classic hard keys, and high-resolution displays merge into the interior. The brand’s first eight-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission enables an even better gear ratio spread alongside a reduction in fuel consumption. So, does a more eco-friendly car deliver a less passionate drive? Not at all. The PDK dual-clutch automatic gearbox is good in either auto or manual mode, darting swiftly and seamlessly between ratios. The pre-planned route took me through Dubai’s glittering cityscape to the vast desert scenery, each kilometre met with confidence and precision. Switching between different driving modes, terrain and conditions really put this model’s capabilities to the test. Stop-and-go traffic along Sheikh Zayed Road was as smooth as possible thanks to the comfortable seats, which I cannot praise enough – especially when compared to the

torturous, back-breaking bucket seats I’ve been subjected to in the past. When I made it out of the city to a more rural landscape, I had the chance to test the acceleration and handling in a controlled setting. I switched to Sport Plus mode and the drive changed completely – revs were held higher for longer and the throttle response sharpened to give a more aggressive engine note. Make no mistake about it, the Panamera is every inch a Porsche and packs more than enough punch to keep even the most discerning driver happy. To get a more immersive experience, I switched several times between the 4S and the Turbo. The 4S boasts a 2.9-litre V6 twin-turbo engine while the latter packs an impressive 4.0litre twin-turbo V8, but both variants impressed in equal measure. To be honest, I was too focused on the drive to pay much attention to the infotainment system; however, there have been some big advancements. Night Vision Assistant uses a thermal imaging camera to detect people and large animals by displaying a colour-highlighted warning indicator in the cockpit. If the new LED Matrix Headlights (with 84 image points) are selected, people beyond the visual range of the dipped beam headlights are also illuminated briefly, should they be in the computed driving corridor, enabling the driver to avoid critical situations in advance – amazing, right? If you’re looking for a premium saloon with plenty of power and space, the Panamera is a great choice. Call 17 459-911. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Darryl, Mona & AB

Vipul, Dana & Tasios

New Lounge Opening Coral Bay Resort opened its new Paradiso Superclub Lounge at its premises. DJ Lina Colada & VJMP3

Orteta & Cristobal

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Omar & Elina

Caleb & TJ

Alexia & Bill

Kat & Cullen

Toma & Sherif

DJ Sam & DJ Jackson

Jammy

February 2017 67

motoring

More than Meets the Eye

CHARLIE HOLDING This no-nonsense compact is proof that simplicity and reliability are a winning combination. The Suzuki Baleno is a five-door hatchback with the power to surprise you. The Japanese marque has pulled out all the stops with this model, which delivers a pleasant performance and great fuel efficiency. While the Kingdom’s drivers may not be as concerned about kilometres per litre ratios as their European counterparts, there are plenty of other benefits to driving a more fuel-efficient vehicle. Thanks to lower emissions, the Baleno is considerably more eco-friendly than gasguzzling SUVs, leaving less of a carbon footprint, ergo; it’s better for the planet. It’s a common misconception that compact cars with smaller engines fail to excite when it comes to the overall driving experience. However, after an afternoon in this hot 68 February 2017

hatchback, I have to say that’s not the case. The Baleno has received praise from motoring critics across the world for its handling capabilities and ride comfort – and I can’t disagree. The drive was steady and comfortable, not to mention fairly quiet in the cabin, well, besides the dulcet tones of my music. The layout of the instrument panel and infotainment system is intuitive and incredibly simple to use, leaving the driver focused entirely on the road. The car features a CD player, USB port, radio and Bluetooth, which means your favourite tunes are never far away. In fact, I think I turned more than a few heads as I made my way along the highway with the sounds of Rammstein ringing out loud and proud. A Brit listening to German music in a Japanese car being driven in Bahrain – how multicultural! When it comes to navigating the small side streets and back alleys of Manama, the Baleno feels right at home. The car’s compact dimensions and fuss-free handling make navigating even the

tightest spaces an absolute doddle. Parking is also a breeze in this model. Finding a space can often be a real challenge around the city – especially in the Diplomatic Area – but the Baleno makes light work of slotting in (assuming, of course, you can parallel park). The vehicle hosts an impressive array of advanced safety features and is built on Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology. This premium hatchback also uses high tensile steel to make the body stronger, safer and lighter. In my opinion, this cool compact is ideal for new drivers and small families. It looks good, performs well and is available in nine attractive colours. Suzuki has showrooms in Sitra and Khamis. Prices for the Baleno start from BD4,850 with free registration and insurance, five years warranty, three years roadside assistance and a courtesy car is available during servicing. Call the Sitra showroom on 17 707-070. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Malik, Amal & Qusai

Fatima

Mahmood, Mishal & Abdul Hameed

Mohammed

Jassim, Ramadan & Abulkhader

Dr Khalid Al Hidan

Home Owners Meeting

The Home Owners Association held a meeting for Danat Al Madina Garden. Faheem Abdulla, Eyad Obaid, Mohammed & Qusai

Latifa, Maha, Fatima & Michelle

So French Inauguration Lulu Group held a grand inauguration of its So French week participation at Lulu Hypermarket, Juffair Mall. The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Shahul, Salim & Shameer

Yoldes, Nadia & Khalil

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Danah, Natalie, Sadaf & Ivan

Ravi & Vineet

Paul & Habiba

Princess, Jenn & Vanessa

Eya & Fatema

Hassan & Mobka

February 2017 69

bystander

New Hotel Opening Frsan Hotel Group opened its new four-star property, Frsan Palace Hotel, in Hoora. The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Sultan Al Ohtami, Razi, Fadel Al Bado & Ragheb

Emily, HE Alfonso A Ver & Ma Josh

Said, Khalid, Mohammed, Mazen, Adel & Zouhair

Maria

Fadel Al Bado & Noora

Mohammed

Majid Zayani & Delano

Home opened a new spinning facility and celebrated its Spinning Facility Opening Westpoint 10th anniversary commemoration at its premises in Askar. The ribbon-cutting ceremony Yan & William

Khalid Almoayyed & Qays Zuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;bi

70 February 2017

Normand & Osama

Imran Ahmed & Khalid Al Zayani

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring EURO MOTORS

The Future Is Coming!

This German automaker presented a wide range of new products, technologies and services at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The future of mobility looks more impressive than ever, with self-driving cars and gesture control systems proving to be just the tip of the iceberg. When it comes to design innovation and in-car technology, BMW is leading the charge and the company proved it at the 2017 CES. A good example of this is the latest evolution of its AirTouch system, which debuted at last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s show. For the uninitiated, AirTouch acts like the screen of a smartphone but doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require you to actually make contact with any surface. The commands are made in the air and various sensors pick up what your hand is doing. This year sees the introduction of an even more advanced gesture control system called HoloActive Touch. The display, which normally presents a series of virtual menu options, is generated just above the centre console by use of reflections. With it, the driver can control typical vehicle functions such as the climate system, communication, infotainment and navigation. Drivers can enter commands by interacting with the hologram display using hand movements. When a fingertip makes contact with one of the virtual menu options, a pulse is emitted and the relevant action is activated. There is plenty more worth bragging about, namely a new connectivity feature called the www.bahrainthismonth.com

Open Mobility Cloud. It offers digital services designed for a world of self-driving cars. One such feature will provide access to wideranging information about places or buildings along the given route. Technology is an integral part of modern-day life and BMW is working on linking your car, phone and home through the Connected Window. This large, interactive digital screen in your home connects with the Open Mobility Cloud and users can fully plan their trip, once again using gesture control. Steady progress towards automated driving is reducing driver stress and offering them a new degree of freedom in how they use their time in the car. At the same time, intelligent connectivity between vehicles, drivers and the outside world is creating new scope for efficient, creative and

stimulating use of this freed-up time. At the 2017 CES, BMW also showcased the potential of connected mobility with demonstration drives in a prototype based on the new 5 Series sedan. On specific route segments, drivers can hand over both longitudinal control tasks and lateral control to the assistance systems, which frees them up to concentrate on other activities. The sensor and control technology make it possible for drivers not only to delegate acceleration and braking to the vehicle, but also to take their hands off the steering wheel for long periods. In time, these technologies look set to become commonplace in BMW vehicles, but, for now, this teaser will have to do. Call 17 750-750. February 2017 71

bystander

Radhika, Randhir Kapoor & Pramod

Celebrity Party Dilip & Sunita Malhotraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party in honour of Bollywood actor Randhir Kapoor Front row: Hameed Rahma, Vinay Diwan, Randhir Kapoor, Joyce & Amitabh Back row: Dilip, Ram & Sunita

Pramod, Deepali & Amit Vandana, Deepika , Sunita & Meenakshi

Preety & Bindu

Shubha, Ingrid, Sunita & Renuka

Dilip & Irwin

Romilla, Rupa & Mrinal

Salman Al Dosari

Dr Mustafa Al Sayed

Heli

Flavours of Bollywood Crown Plaza Bahrain held a Flavours of Bollywood event at Indian Spices Restaurant. Himanshu, Santosh, Madhu, Anil & Gilles

Sumithra & Prasanth

Sanjay, Romilla & Dilip

72 February 2017

Santosh & Arif

Kimaya & Shanu

Niket & Tarun

Ayana & Rajni

Raji

www.bahrainthismonth.com

VOLVO

A Sophisticated Sedan

This Scandinavian marque is pulling out all the stops with its latest model.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Equipped with a host of new technologies, ranging from cutting-edge safety to cloud-based apps and services, the Volvo S90 is proof that this Swedish brand has a bright future. This premium flagship model is built on new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), Volvo’s advanced modular product platform that underpins all new cars in the 90 and 60 series. Like its siblings, the XC90 and the V90, the S90 carries the proud and confident face of Volvo’s new design language along with classic styling cues. Key features include the ‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED headlight design, the new grille and, of course, the Iron Mark logo. All new models are connected, thanks to Volvo’s latest offering – Sensus. This intuitive touch screen interface combines car functions, navigation, connected services and in-car entertainment applications such as Spotify, Pandora, Baidu and TuneIn. The portraitoriented touch screen enables easy and fast access to a host of functions and features. Not only does this model look great, it adheres to the marque’s sensational safety specifications. The City Safety Technology combines automatic breaking functionality and collision avoidance systems to cover a range of potential accident scenarios and help keep you safe.

Volvo’s overall safety offering, called IntelliSafe, encompasses both active and passive safety systems and forms the groundwork for Volvo’s leadership in the field of autonomous drive. The S90 already offers semi-autonomous drive with Pilot Assist, which works up to 130kmph on clearly marked roads. This is another step towards Volvo’s Vision 2020, which states that no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by 2020. The new Volvo S90 is available in Bahrain at the Motor City showroom in Sitra, with a starting price of BD17,995. Call 17 736-222 or visit www.motorcity.com.bh. For more information or to book a test drive, visit the Motor City showroom in Sitra. February 2017 73

motoringnews&launches

Exclusive Showroom Preview

Marketer of The Year Award Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, the distributor for INFINITI in Bahrain, gave customers a sneak peek at its new state-of-the-art showroom. The INFINITI Center conforms to the signature IREDI (INFINITI Retail Environment Design Initiative) design concept, which creates a distinctive, authentically-branded retail environment, the company says. This milestone marks the next step in INFINITI’s plan to transform itself into a stronger market contributor in Bahrain.

Mahasum Shah, chief marketing officer of A.A. Bin Hindi Group, has won the Marketer of The Year Award for 2016. He was presented with the honour during the Customer Show Awards, which is considered the ultimate marketing event for the Middle East. Mr Shah received the award for the strategic tie-up with Outlaw Productions and product placement ideas on the popular music album of the year – #9ARAT, which had 9.8million views on YouTube.

Employees Attend Global Distribution Meeting Zayani Motors (ZM), the dealer for Mitsubishi in Bahrain, thanked two long-serving employees for their contribution to the company’s success in the Kingdom. Jacob Samuel, spare parts manager, and Pullassry Raghunandanan, senior sales executive, have worked with Zayani Motors since 1994 and have been exemplary in their respective areas of expertise. As a token of appreciation, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation invited them to attend the marque’s Global Distribution Meeting, which was held in Tokyo, Japan. During the meeting, officials thanked them and expressed their gratitude for their hard work and contribution over the years.

A company spokesperson says: “Both our extraordinary staff members are an inspiration and an integral part of our team. We wouldn’t be where we are today without their

contributions and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for being an example of proficiency and dedication at Zayani Motors.”

Business Intelligence Seminar

Kanoo Consulting Services (KCS) conducted a seminar for clients to showcase business intelligence and mobile applications. “With recent advancements in technology, 74 February 2017

enterprises are increasingly looking to do business using smartphones and tablets,” says KCS delivery manager, Anish Daniel. “Organisations across all industries are looking for robust and powerful applications that are tailored to mobile devices and can provide real-time access to enterprise information. KCS’s mobile solution is about simplifying enterprise mobility, giving customers the choice and flexibility to develop their own strategies. The emphasis is on

bringing business to customers, not customers to business.” KCS helps enterprises create and deliver engaging user experiences on a secure platform, for any application or device, around any system. Its business intelligence solutions, built on the Oracle platform, cover the verticals of supply chain, manufacturing, finance, human resources and customer relationship management, providing accurate reporting for business owners and senior management. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sales Figures Revealed Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced its second highest annual sales result in the marque’s 113year history, up six per cent on 2015. A total of 4,011 cars were delivered to customers in more than 50 countries. Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO, says: “We are deeply committed to a long-term, sustainable, successful growth strategy and this result, amidst a backdrop of global uncertainty, affirms this approach. Last year proved the perfect way to sign off the successful first chapter of the renaissance of Rolls-Royce.” The Middle East ended the year as the third largest market in 2016, while Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dubai earned the accolade of the highestselling dealership globally.

New Model Debut Ebrahim K. Kanoo, distributor of Toyota in Bahrain, launched the 2017 Corolla. The bold and stylish new model is available with 2.0-litre and 1.6-litre engines and boasts many of the well-known performance and safety features available in previous versions. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of Corolla, crowning five decades of providing reliable Japanese automotive technology to millions of drivers. Ebrahim K. Kanoo senior manager of Toyota Marketing, Ayman Shehadeh, says: “The name Corolla has become synonymous with efficiency and reliability in the automobile world, and its popularity can be easily witnessed, especially here in Bahrain, where it is one of the most widely seen cars on the road. It is a brand that has been trusted for decades. Whether for the young and fun-seeking or the family-oriented, it appeals to a very wide customer segment.” Call 17 730-730 or visit toyota.com.bh

Keep on Truckin’ Zayani Motors delivered the first FUSO FJ 2528C Tipper truck in Bahrain. Projects Construction Company received the vehicle in a brief ceremony where Steven J Donlon, managing director of Projects Group, accepted the key from Majid K Al Zayani, managing director of Zayani Motors. The Fuso FJ 2528C Tipper truck has been specially and strategically designed for rough operations during heavy construction, as well as light and medium depth mining applications. Call 17 703-703. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

GeniCan – Even making your trash smart Throwing things in the rubbish, and making shopping lists to replenish them, have always been things none of us like to do. With GeniCan, you can scan an item’s barcode as you discard it in order to automatically add it to your shopping list. If an item doesn’t have a barcode, then GeniCan will simply ask you what to add to the shopping list. Available from www.genican.com.

Motiv Ring – Fitness and motivation wrapped around your finger The Motiv Ring effortlessly tracks your activity, heart rate and sleep. It measures everything from active minutes, steps and calories burned all the way to sleep duration. The Motiv Ring is the most stylish way to keep in touch with your fitness self. Available from www.mymotiv.com

Mi Band 2 – Time to step up As a lifestyle magazine, fitness has a place very close to our hearts. The Mi Band 2 is yet another fitness tracker that goes on your wrist. It lets you track and check the time, your steps and heart rate all on the go (without an app). The fitness tracker also alerts you when you’ve been sitting too long in order to remind you to move around a little bit, which is something that all of us could use from time to time. Available from www.mi.com/en/miband2

Noke Smart Lock The Noke Smart Lock redefines the traditional lock technology that has existed for over 100 years. Make sure that you never have to spend time looking for the right key or fumbling for the combination of numbers again with the padlock of the 21st century. Available from www.noke.com

Amazon Echo – Your new personal assistant The time when robots and artificial intelligence come for our jobs is here. Meet Amazon Echo, a digital personal assistant with Amazon’s Alexa AI built in to help you schedule appointments and search the web with just your voice. It’s always ready, connected and fast. Available from www.amazon.com/echo

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Honor 8 - Eyes to the world The Honor 8, also known as a smartphone that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hurt your pocket, comes in at a better budget price than some of the other options on the market. It features Googleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Android operating system and includes fingerprint technology, a dual camera and fast charging. Available from www.hihonor.com.

SEGA Arcade Classic Wireless This gadget lets all your childhood gaming fantasies become a reality since you can recreate the glory days of the magnificent SEGA Mega Drive (with a wireless upgrade!). The ultimate retro games console features 80 classic SEGA games built in, including Mortal Kombat, Sonic and Golden Axe. With two wireless controllers, it is ready to plug in and play. Available from www.red5.co.uk

Frozen Drinks and Slushie Maker This vintage design gives you all the tools you need to create incredible ice-cold drinks at home. This device is super-quick and easy to set up; simply plug in, switch on and add your favourite ingredients to create chilly creations in less than 15 minutes. Perfect for fruit smoothies and slushy cordials for kids or iced coffees and delicious cocktails for the grown-ups. Available from www.amazon.com

Nanodots These incredibly powerful magnetic constructors are precisely crafted for the formation of complex structures. They were originally developed for the purpose of education in geometry, chemistry, maths and magnetism. They allow for endless creative fun and can lift 1,000 times their own weight. Available from www.red5.co.uk

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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music

Neil Young – Peace Trail What’s the story?

Peace Trail is the 37th studio album by Canadian singer-songwriter Neil Young. Described as a “primarily acoustic” album, Young recorded Peace Trail with drummer Jim Keltner and bass guitarist Paul Bushnell. According to Bushnell, the album was recorded in four days, with no songs requiring more than a couple of takes.

Worth a listen?

The 21st century revived Neil Young’s radical spirit and, along with it, his sense of musical adventure. These two strands converge on Peace Trail, a rickety record written and cut in such a brief period of time that it, unfortunately, sounds like it entirely comprises rehearsal tapes, with the rhythm section lagging behind as they follow Young’s basic chord changes. In form, almost all of the 10 songs are folky protest numbers but Neil slashes through his hippie haze with shards of overamplified harmonica, guitar squalls, and vocoders, the modern world intruding on his melancholy reveries and subdued anger. To compound the oddness, the production is deliberately scattered with sound effects, displaying a flair assembled with more care than either the album’s composition or recording. All this adds up to one of Neil Young’s genuinely strange albums, a record that’s compelling in its series of increasingly bad decisions.

Verdict: A poor showing from an icon who can do much better.

Shorts

Brian Eno – Reflection

Reflection slowly unfolds over the course of an hour, with notes calmly suspended in midair, only to drift away and pop up later at their leisure. Occasionally, there’s a cosmic sweep that wisps away in the background at infrequent intervals, providing the biggest element of surprise to the album. It’s meant to be relaxing, but it’s not entirely relaxed itself. As with all of Eno’s ambient works, it’s minimal and non-distracting, but there are subtle alterations and changes, and it does reward any amount of attention paid to it.

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deadmau5 – W:/2016ALBUM/

Rebel Kind – Just for Fools

This album, in many ways, looks back to the past. It is reminiscent of early electronica such as that of Kraftwerk and Jean Michel-Jarre as well as early ‘90s trip-hop. What’s so interesting is how listenable rather than danceable this is. The tempos are mellower than typical EDM. It’s the type of music you want while driving in your car, working, or chilling in the evening rather than grooving at a club. Even for Deadmau5, who often updates the beats of the past, this has a familiar but welcome feel.

Just for Fools has a very direct sound, easing up on Rebel Kind’s previous fuzz and trying out new sonic ingredients. A couple of numbers feature ‘60s-sounding organ, particularly the fast, swinging At the Party, while songs such as the furious Everything You Said Was Just a Lie are biting and personal. Indeed, many of the songs lament ex-lovers who did wrong, and express loneliness and disappointment. Vivid and visceral, Just for Fools is another strong showing from this upcoming band.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

BIS Luncheon

Bahrain India Society (BIS) hosted a luncheon in honour of Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, General Dr V K Singh, at the Intercontinental Regency Bahrain.

Arun, Juzer & Thomas

Bhagvan, Kishor, Diraj, Anoop Kewalram, Vijay Baloor & Indu Bhatia

Virendra & Kamal Dr VK Singh

Anoop Kewalram & Indu Bhatia

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Madhavan & KS Pillai

Jaan

Om Prakash & Anil

Nevin & Kishor

Thomas

Raj Damani, Juzer & Manoj Bhatia

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games

Games review Game: The Last Guardian Rating: OOOO Verdict: A beautiful, but occasionally frustrating, platformer. What is it?

The third game by the acclaimed development staff behind ICO and Shadow of the Colossus. In a strange and mystical land, a young boy discovers a mysterious creature named Trico, with which he forms a deep, unbreakable bond. The unlikely pair must rely on each other to journey through towering, treacherous ruins filled with unknown dangers in a touching, emotional story of friendship and trust.

Gameplay:

The game is essentially a platformer, with you exploring all manner of terrain such as ruins, temples, caves and more with the help of your furry friend. There are enemies that you will encounter, and you have no way of beating them as you are. All you can do is run away and avoid being captured by them, and wait for Trico to come in and save the day, furthering the bond between the two of you. Frustratingly, early on in the game Trico tends to do his own thing. Although you can call him to you and offer commands, it takes a while for him to perform the action required to reach the next part of the level. While it makes sense from a story standpoint, as the two of you are strangers, it doesn’t translate too well from a gameplay perspective.

The Walking Dead: A New Frontier

Walkers return in Season 3 of Telltale Games’ The Walking Dead series, set in the world of Robert Kirkman’s award-winning comic book series. It offers an emotionally charged, tailored game experience where a player’s actions and choices affect how their story plays out across the entire series. A New Frontier will act as both a new beginning for players fresh to the series and unfamiliar with Clementine, as well as a continuation for players who have experienced Seasons One and Two. 80 February 2017

Graphics:

Considering this game had been in development hell for eight years, it is surprising that it rarely, if ever, looks dated. The buildings and ruins look great, with their cracked pillars and mossy growth, while some of the pulled-out views of the area are breathtaking. It’s obvious how much care has been put into Trico, from the subtle animations to the way his feathers ruffle in the breeze.

Stardew Valley

In this open-ended country life RPG, you’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot. Armed with hand-me-down tools and a few coins, you set out to begin your new life in Stardew Valley. You must learn to live off the land and turn the overgrown fields into a thriving home. It won’t be easy to return the town to greatness as, ever since the Joja Corporation came to town, the old ways of life have all but disappeared and the once-vibrant community centre now lies in shambles.

Killing Floor 2

In Killing Floor 2, players descend into continental Europe where the outbreak caused by Horzine Biotech’s failed experiment has quickly spread and gained unstoppable momentum. Just one month after the events in the original game, the specimen clones are everywhere and civilisation is in disarray. Delivering an even more visceral shooting experience, new enemies and fan favourites from the original game are back with expanded and smarter artificial intelligence, pushing the challenge level and fear factor to new levels.

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bystander

Lou, Dave & Serina

Sara & Sharif

Tosin & Berna

InterNations InterNations held a social night at JJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irish Restaurant. Burak & Hanane

Amit & Hassam

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Andrea, Len & Thys

Janaki & Vivek

Salim

Ajay, Sameer & Tahir

Faras & Iria

Anto

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bystander

websites VERDICT: A vital tool for business and web developers.

Bahrain Italian Friendship

Cico’s Italian Restaurant held a Bahrain Italian Friendship event at its premises in Adliya. Filippo, Cristina, Marcello Lippi, Laura & HE Domenico Bellato

www.myfonts.com/WhatTheFont/ Rating: OOOO What is it?

Ali Zayani, Antonio, Simona & Madelin

What the Font is a web app and also available as a browser extension that lets you identify a particular font that you see on a webpage. You can upload an image to the website to get further details about the font face, its size, colour and more.

The Good:

The positives are obvious; if you really like a font and want to adopt it for your own personal use, this website makes light work of it. It’s intuitive and the search results are in-depth. There’s also a forum for other font fans to suggest solutions or help with queries.

The Bad:

For searches, you have to upload an image file with specific criteria (such as unique characters, a certain letter height, etc.), which is annoying when you only have a small sample to work with. Shaikh Abdulla Al Khalifa

Vincent, Manuel & Temes

www.crossfade.io/ Crossfade.io allows users to mix and match videos with other audio sources. Add the source URLs of audio and video to mash and mix them together using this web tool. It’s a great website for video designers and creative artists whether novice or experienced.

Fai, Jan & Nicola

Cherian & Filippo

www.pixelthoughts.co/ This is a simple but brilliant website that lets you meditate for 60 seconds. Enter a thought that is pestering you and watch it as it gets brushed away in this walk of life. Relaxing music and reassuring messages crop up to help you deal with your troubles.

Eddy & Giovani

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Omar, Carmen & Julia

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bystander

French Week dinner

HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre hosted an private dinner featuring three Michelin-starred chefs from France at the Gulf Hotel.

Christophe, HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre & Marc

Philip, Kim & Nakhale

Strasbach, Aurelien & Eck

Luise, Cathy, Zirile & Jill

The band performing

Peachy & Karina

Strasbach & Violette

www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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apps

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

What is it?

Pixelmator is a powerful, full-featured, layer-based image editor that lets you touch up and enhance images, sketch and paint, as well as create advanced image compositions on iPad and iPhone alike. Pixelmator has everything you need, whether you’re a mobile photographer, painter or graphic designer.

The Good:

The app works seamlessly with Mac as well as your mobile, so you can start creating on iPhone or iPad and continue right where you left off on your laptop. This interface so perfectly captures Apple’s app aesthetic that you could be forgiven for assuming that Pixelmator had been acquired by Apple. The list of features is comprehensive and the menus are seamless.

App: Pixelmator Rating: OOOO

The Bad:

Verdict: An easy-to-use app with tons of features for photo fans.

The main annoyance with the app is the image size limitation. It’s frustratingly low, so you’ll often try to upload one of your photos and be met with an error message. This means not only that you have to go to another app to resize your image, but also that you have a drop in image fidelity.

App: Workouts++

App: Artisto

Workouts++ features three different sections that you can switch between on the fly: Configure, Workouts and Stats. Changing the view that you’re in is easy and intuitive, and the app features a nice use of bright colours so that users can easily distinguish each type of workout, as well as see stats clearly. Because the design is purposely minimal, the app is fast and responsive.

An image editing app with a twist … it lets you edit videos too! You can apply Artisto’s effects to photos and videos in your phone’s storage as well as to those you shoot from within the app. You can then share the results to the social media platform of your choice.

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bystander

movies

VERDICT: An amazing entry in the iconic franchise.

Wieble

Alsatian Brunch

Novotel Bahrain organised a Friday brunch with an Alsatian touch with chef Jean-Paul Bostoen and chef Ali. Ali, Laurent & Jean-Paul

Isabelle

Film: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Rating: OOOOO Directed by: Gareth Edwards Starring: Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Mads Mikkelsen

The Plot: Anil, Khalil & Achut

Alina

Set between Episodes III and IV, Rogue One tells the story of the events leading into the original movie. All looks lost for the Rebellion against the Empire as they learn of the existence of a new super weapon, the Death Star. Once a possible weakness in its construction is uncovered, the Rebel Alliance must set out on a desperate mission to steal the plans for the deadly battle station, for the future of the entire galaxy now rests upon its success.

Worth Watching?

Live Concert

Yasmine Hamdan’s concert was held at the Cultural Hall.

This is a very different Star Wars, with almost the complete absence of the series’ staples of Jedi, lightsabres, the Force, and familiar cast. It’s a darker, grittier and more mature tale that can almost be described as a straight-up war movie. The new core group of characters are eminently likeable and easy to invest in, and the cameos of old favourites will have old fans fistpumping and giggling with glee. The incredible final act expertly delivers thrills, tension and genuine stakes, and is a must watch for both fans and newcomers.

Yasmine Hamdan

The LEGO Batman Movie

Eleanor & Minou Surangi, Victoria & Susie

Reema, Muna & Ramla

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Jameela & Nijad

In the irreverent spirit of fun that made The LEGO Movie a worldwide phenomenon, the selfdescribed leading man of that ensemble – LEGO Batman – stars in his own big-screen adventure. But there are big changes brewing in Gotham, and if he wants to save the city from The Joker’s hostile takeover, Batman may have to drop the lone vigilante act, try to work with others and maybe, just maybe, learn to lighten up.

xXx: The Return of Xander Cage

Extreme athlete turned government operative Xander Cage (Vin Diesel), thought to be long dead, comes out of selfimposed exile and is set on a collision course with deadly alpha warrior Xiang (Donnie Yen) and his team in a race to recover a sinister and seemingly unstoppable weapon known as Pandora’s Box. R www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Restaurant Opening Al Abraaj Restaurants Group opened its new restaurant, YaSalam!, in Uptown Village, Budaiya. Restaurant staff & management

Faisal, Abdulla, Rashid, Hamad & Ali

Rashed, Sneha, Puja & Eman

Ahmed, Taner & Panayiotis

Regina & Eleni

InterNations

InterNations Manama held a social gathering at Coral Bay Resort. Burak, Canan, Jack & Betul

Boris, Eleine, Pat & Karan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Nasser & Lesla

George & Nehal

Jon & Dave

Vivin & Audra

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valentine’sfeature

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide It’s the month of love and there’s no better way to show your affection than a thoughtful present. Whether you’re looking to splurge or buy the perfect ‘little something’, here are a few gift ideas to get you started.

Trendsetter Collection, Nomination Italy Available at Nomination Italy, Al Aali Shopping Complex. Raymond Weil Freelancer Watch Available at Asia Jewellers, Moda Mall and Al Aali Shopping Complex.

Wallet and Card Holder, Hackett London Available at Hackett London, City Centre Bahrain.

Le Mâle Essence de Parfum, Jean Paul Gaultier Available at leading retailers.

Babel Alchemy Men’s Beard Kit Available at www. virginmegastore.ae.

Laptop Bag, Ted Baker Available at Ted Baker, City Centre Bahrain.

Dino Pattern Wool Scarf, Paul Smith Available at Paul Smith, City Centre Bahrain.

Tobacco Absolute – Single Wick Candle, Molton Brown Available at www. moltonbrown.co.uk

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Madison 6 Pen Holder Box – Walnut Wood and Silver Plate, Christofle Available at Jashanmal, Al Aali Shopping Complex.

Leather Belt, Ted Baker Available at Ted Baker, City Centre Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Extension Collection, Nomination Italy Available at Nomination Italy, Al Aali Shopping Complex. Cuore Ferragamo Timepiece, Salvatore Ferragamo Available at Asia Jewellers, Moda Mall and Al Aali Shopping Complex.

Floral Dress, Ted Baker Available at Ted Baker, City Centre Bahrain.

Love Story Eau Sensuelle, ChloĂŠ Available at Leading Retailers. M.A.C Shadescents Available at all MAC Locations.

Valentine Minaudiere, Karl Lagerfeld Available at Karl Lagerfeld, City Centre Bahrain.

Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual Available at www. virginmegastore.ae.

Tatty Devine Cosmetic Pouch Available at www.virginmegastore.ae.

Nail Lacquers, OPI Available at Leading Retailers.

Sunglasses, Mango Available at Mango, City Centre Bahrain. www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2017 89

valentine’sfeature ASIA JEWELLERS

A Timeless Gift

Exuding extraordinary craftsmanship, brilliant colour and design, this special timepiece from the renowned Italian fashion house is a sure way to a lady’s heart.

The Rêvive Valentine’s Day edition from Versace celebrates this festive event with a special watch in the symbolic red colour. Co-ordinated with the lizard-effect scarlet leather strap, this timepiece has two rubies and a double Versace logo on the réhaut, plus a crystal cabochon set on the winder. The watch is given a remarkably luminous touch by the mirror-finish dial, over which the Roman numerals seem to float. The other features of this iconic collection are a 35mm two-tone steel case, big lugs featuring a stylised Greek key design and the Medusa head at 12 o’clock. The timepiece is available at Versace Boutique, Moda Mall. Call 17 536-663 for more information.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION Case: Two-tone steel 35mm Winder with red crystal cabochon Lugs with Greek key design Water resistance: 30m/3 ATM Movement: Quartz (Ronda 763.3) – Swiss made Dial: Mirror-finish, Medusa head at 12 o’clock Réhaut with two rubies and engraved red logo Strap: Red, lizard print calfskin – butterfly buckle

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NOMINATION ITALY

Say It from the Heart Personalise a love message for your beloved by gifting them these unique bracelets that will leave an imprint on their heart. A special day brings a special celebration – Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to declare your love and rekindle the romance in your life. Melt her heart or let him know why he is your guy. Tell the story of your love, line by line, with Nomination’s Composable Collection. You can create your very own personal message and wear your heart on your sleeve, or you can create a bracelet with a more cryptic message of symbols that have a special meaning for you, or simply celebrate an important or romantic milestone. The Composable collection allows the wearer to become their own stylist – they choose the links which will create the bracelet they buy. The result is a piece of jewellery which tells a personal story – a wristlet which is precious and unique – something you will treasure, today and beyond. Call 17 530-919. www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2017 91

valentine’sfeature SHARIF GROUP

Jewels from the Heart A thoughtful gift for your loved one speaks volumes. Spoil that special someone with these beautiful jewellery pieces to show how much you care. Love is in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches, and with it comes the dilemma of choosing the perfect present for that significant other in your life. Well, look no further as FERRE Milano brings you the Jewel Collection, just in time for this special day. Inspired by the romance and sentiment of the occasion, the line features unique designs to complement the charm of your loved one. It not only includes new and exclusive designs, but also carries the identity of the brand’s Italian designer. Capturing the sophisticated and contemporary appeal of Gianfranco’s fashion concept in an easy, immediate and approachable manner, this Italian jewellery collection is conceived for people who recognise the expressions of instant luxury, modernity and an unmistakable style. It aims to appeal to individuals who are more in tune with contemporary urban trends. The pieces are a reinterpretation of fashion, carefully tailored for people who love the brand’s unmistakable values: elegance, exclusivity and quality. FERRE Milano jewellery embodies the bold statement of a luxurious collection, inspired by the Italian lifestyle, uncompromising craftsmanship and a design language that evokes the elegance of authenticity and perfection of the make itself. FERRE Milano represents the brand diffusion line of Gianfranco FERRE – with an ever wider selection of versatile pieces that capture the essence and elegance of the designer’s style – a duality between classic spirit and modern personal flair. FERRE Milano jewellery is available at A La Mode. Call 17 179-863 for more information. 92 February 2017

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valentine’sfeature THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

Stress-Free Romance What better way to express your feelings for your loved one than with a pampered couple’s spa package? This five-star property is all set to spoil you with its tempting offers. This is one gift that both men and women will love. There’s no better way to spend Valentine’s Day than setting aside your phone for a couple of hours and escaping the madness of life by immersing yourself in a sea of soothing sensations. The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa has a sumptuous package for couples which includes a choice between an aroma, Swedish or Balinese massage, followed by a body wrap. Candles and fresh flowers set the scene as the specialised therapists take away your stress. It is priced at BD100 per couple and is available throughout February, redeemable for three months after the voucher has been issued. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for that special woman in your life, grab a luxury facial bag with French cosmetics from Phytomer, inclusive of make-up remover, cleansing milk and toner for BD34, available for purchase from February 5 to 18. Let her take away the spa experience in the comforts of your home. So before you head off to a romantic dinner or movie date, set the right tone for the evening with an indulgent spa experience, and strengthen your affections for one another. Call 17 525-237.

Pauline, Janet & Heather

Jody, Bec, Scott, Tony & Nicky

Jo, Jennifer & Alison

David, Abdul, Kathleen & Madeleine

Social Gathering John and Jody Luckie-Downe held a post Christmas get-together at their residence. John & Jody

Ralph & Sharon

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Mike

Ana & Brian

Tania, Ruth, David & Denise

www.bahrainthismonth.com

FEBRUARY MONTH OF LOVE AT THE DIPLOMAT SPA

COUPLES PACKAGE: Couples Massage (Aroma, Swedish, Balinese) Couples Body Wrap 100 BD per couple* *Available to purchase throughout February â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Voucher redeemable for 3 months

PHYTOMER VALENTINES OFFER

Looking for the perfect gift for that special woman in your life? Phytomer Make Up Remover Phytomer Cleansing Milk Phytomer Toner 34 BD

For more informations and reservations, please call +973 17525237 Diplomat.Spa@radissonblu.com The.Diplomat.Radisson.Blu

RBlu_Bahrain

diplomatradissonblu

valentine’sfeature AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

For the Sake of Love Whisk away that special someone on an idyllic getaway at this eminent five-star property this Valentine’s Day.

The Al Areen Palace & Spa offers a truly indulgent spa facility for therapies, massages and holistic treatments, coupled with tailormade packages especially crafted to invoke romance. Feel your pleasures reawaken as you slowly drift into bliss. The villas truly redefine the ultimate in desert opulence. Book one of these luxurious abodes and enjoy a dining package for two at Keizo or Saffron plus breakfast in the comfort of your desert pool villa for BD230 per night. Villas features a private marble courtyard, heated pools and Jacuzzi, a living room, dining room with pantry, a majlis and an outdoor shower. The Cupid’s Romantic Spa Break includes a four-course dinner for two at Keizo or Saffron, a special breakfast and a spa treatment with your partner for 45 minutes along with a onebedroom desert pool villa stay for BD280. An exquisite 60-minute couple’s massage is priced at BD85 or BD125 for 90 minutes. The Rituals of Romance package starts at BD204 for 120 minutes. Al Areen Palace & Spa offers the travel 96 February 2017

connoisseur complete privacy in an alluring and peaceful haven that is rich in both spirituality and culture. Throughout February, Bahrain residents can get a 20 per cent discount when presenting a valid CPR for a villa stay. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait residents can book a villa from BD160++. The complex houses the largest garden hammam pool in the region, 12 specialised massage pavilions, eight deluxe and four royal spa pavilions, a hydrothermal therapy pool and a health centre that provides a complete body wellness programme. A vitality pool, ice igloo and foot spa are also available. Drawn from the Chinese five-elements philosophy and other timeless Asian traditions, the intimate retreat blends serenity with exotic sensuality. Choose from a wide selection of other massage treatments based on evolving techniques that have passed through many generations. An exclusive membership gives you up to 30 per cent discount on spa treatments. You can make use of prepaid benefits for your personal

pampering plan. Membership is available in three tiers – silver plus, gold plus or platinum plus, along with special cards for groups and corporates. Indulge in a tempting array of dining options to entice your palate with a superior culinary experience. Savour succulent East Asian specialties at Keizo, enjoy a selection of international delights at Rimal, or indulge in modern Bahraini and Khaleeji fusion cuisine at Saffron. Set amid a backdrop of enchanting panoramic scenery, every meal is an occasion to cherish and remember. Bordering the spectacular grounds of the Al Areen Wildlife Sanctuary, Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park and the Bahrain International Circuit, the resort spans 131,000sq/m. It features 78 lavish villas, each with modern entertainment facilities such as high-definition LED TVs, Bose audio systems, DVD and CD players, and free Wi-Fi. Call 17 845-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Cupid’s Romantic Spa Break BD280 net per night

Cupid’s Ultimate Villa Package BD230 net per night

(includes villa,dinner,breakfast, 45-min spa & special arrangements)

(includes villa, dinner, breakfast, special arrangements)

Spice Up Your Valentine’s at Saffron BD 25 net per person 4-course Arabic set menu

Valentine’s Dinner at Keizo BD 25 net per person 4-course set menu & live singer

Tel: +973 17845000

Valentine’s Day Island Dining at Keizo BD125 only Gazebo rent & food

www.alareenpalace.com

valentine’sdining

Food For Love

Restaurants in Bahrain make Valentine’s Day an extra-special affair with exquisitely crafted gourmet menus and tantalising decor to invoke romance. Whether you prefer to dine at an idyllic, intimate eatery or a flamboyant highend venue in the city, there’s a tasty treat for every loved-up couple. Choose from one of the many options that will woo your palate as BTM brings you a comprehensive list of offerings. Bushido Restaurant and Lounge Win the heart of your loved one with an exceptional set menu comprising a beautifullycrafted Valentine’s roll, classic unagi salad, robata grilled salmon and a slice of strawberry Elise cake for BD22++. Call 17 583-555.

Teatro with a dreamy Valentine’s dinner thoughtfully prepared to bring out the romance in everyone on this special occasion. Enjoy a four-course set menu for BD29 per couple or BD39 including selected beverages, starting from 6pm onwards. Call 13 119-999. ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands Celebrate at Flames with an exquisite fourcourse set menu paired with grape for BD40++ per person. Rosso has designed a cosy threecourse menu for BD28++ per couple. Celebrate your love at the popular Sushi ART night at WU, priced at BD58++ per couple. All three venues begin serving from 7pm onwards. Call 16 000-111.

Royal Golf Club Enjoy a sparkling welcome drink on arrival and then spoil yourselves with a superb fourcourse dinner for BD35 per person. Ladies will also receive a special gift and a BD10 voucher for use at Jenny’s Salon, located at the club. Call 17 751-262.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Light fare and sweet mocktails await couples from 7pm onwards for BD20++. A five-course set menu is on offer at Plums for BD40++ per person, and a four-course set menu will be available at Primavera for BD32++, both from 7pm to 11pm. Call 17 586-499.

Downtown Rotana Celebrate love with that special someone at

Villa Mamas An incredible selection of à la carte fare is on

98 February 2017

Teatro

offer with live entertainment, a photo booth to capture memories made through the night, and complimentary drinks upon arrival. Call 17 305-031. Crowne Plaza Bahrain Indulge in a Romeo and Juliet-themed Valentine’s brunch at La Mosaique on February 14 from 12.30pm to 4pm for BD35 per person. Let the celebration sizzle with a set menu dinner at Spices for BD12 on the same day. A www.bahrainthismonth.com

special dinner will be held at Waves seafood restaurant on February 13 from 7pm onwards for BD18 per person. Call 17 531-122. Maki Award-winning chef Louis Kenji Huang will woo your palate with a set menu specially crafted for Valentine’s Day for BD80+ per couple. A complimentary bottle of beverage is included. Call 17 522-733. Trader Vic’s A romantic atmosphere with an island setting complemented by soothing live entertainment is on offer. A mouthwatering selection of fare in an idyllic location will make you feel you’re on a mini vacation. Executive chef Ruben Herrera and his team ensure every effort goes into the Trader Vic’s menu to deliver a unique fine dining experience for every guest. Call 17 586-555. La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts Share a dreamy night with your loved one in the majestic fort of this beautiful venue. Indulge in a sumptuous dinner amid a live performance by violinist Nora Lee, who will be playing popular works, as well as a selection of classical pieces composed by Bach and Brahms. It is priced at BD50+ per couple inclusive of a rose for the lady. Call 17 230-123. Cavalli Caffè A special set menu created by chef Federico Sanna is guaranteed to entice your taste buds. Diners will also be treated to complimentary Cavalli chocolates and a custom-made cocktail. Call 77 788-877.

La Fontaine www.bahrainthismonth.com

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Choose between an enchanting dinner at CUT by Wolfgang Puck or experience Oriental delicacies at re/Asian Cuisine, both priced at BD45++ per person starting from 7pm. Alternatively, enjoy a romantic dinner at Vento with stunning views of the Manama skyline for BD42++. Call 17 115-000. The Domain Hotel and Spa Pair a romantic movie screening at Domain Privé with a sumptuous dinner for a classic date night for BD30++. A four-course set menu at Le Sauvage is priced at BD21++, available from February 13-15. A kaiseki menu at Imari is priced at BD50++ per couple, valid on February 14. Call 16 000-000. Al Areen Palace & Spa Spice it up at Saffron for an evening of great food for BD25 per person. An alluring menu awaits you at Keizo alsofor BD25. For an island dining experience, reserve one of the three gazebos for BD125. Call 17 845-000. Swiss-Belhotel Live entertainment with a romantic dinner is being hosted at Swiss Café, at Swiss-Belhotel. It is priced at BD12 per person or BD16 inclusive of selected beverages. In-room dining in the midst of rose petals and candles will also be available for BD20 inclusive of a bottle of grape. Call 66 310-000. La Taverna, Coral Bay Bahrain Head to La Taverna for a Romeo and Juliet-inspired dinner and enjoy a specially crafted set menu to

entice your taste buds for BD39+ per couple. Call 17 312-700. The Foundry Couples can enjoy an exquisite, romantic dinner with the tunes of a live saxophonist at this chic restaurant. Call 69 960-000. Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Head to Golestan and Soie for special set menus, priced at BD14.900++ and BD19.900++ per person, respectively. Ladies get roses and heart-shaped cookies. Call 17 533-533. Kabayanz, Ramee Rose Hotel A set fare with sparkling cocktails can be had for BD5. A lucky draw could let you win a onenight stay at the hotel. Band Insignia and DJ Francis will keep you grooving till the wee hours. Call 17 616-167. Other romantic destinations to check out are Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, Lantern’s Lounge & Restaurant and Oliveto.

Al Areen Villa February 2017 99

valentine’sdining THE DOMAIN HOTEL AND SPA

Romance on the Menu

This Valentine’s Day treat yourself and your darling to one of the many promotions at this five-star property in Diplomatic Area. The Domain Hotel and Spa is all geared up to bring you memories of a lifetime this month. Savour a multi-course kaiseki dinner at Imari for BD50++ per couple including a bottle of grape. Enjoy Japanese crab meat and spinach with tosa vinegar jelly, assorted sashimi or cooked sushi rolls. This is followed by grilled salmon and vegetables with ponzu sauce, assorted prawn or vegetable tempuras, and a main dish of grilled wagyu beef ribeye teriyaki style steak. A decadent stuffed rice cake with red bean paste and strawberry marks the end to the delicious affair. A set menu will also be available at Le Sauvage from February 13 to 15. Start with an appetiser of lobster crème brûlée, marinated scallops and summer truffles or seared foie gras, with cinnamon and apple coulis. An aromatic young beetroot and slow-roasted walnut soup will whet your appetite for the next 100 February 2017

delicacy, a pink pepper and raspberry sorbet. For the main course, choose between a dryaged Black Angus tenderloin or a Canadian lobster thermidor drizzled with a dark hollandaise sauce. Desserts comprise a red velvet cheese cake with crunchy cookie base and raspberry crumble. It is priced at BD21++ per person. Add a twist to a regular date with a romantic movie screening at the chic Domain Privé for BD30++. Include a bottle of grape with dinner and two beverages during the movie for BD50++. Woo your dearest with the ‘suite hearts’ package, inclusive of a one-night stay in a luxury suite with breakfast in bed, heart shaped chocolates, Jacuzzi, two beverages, and a dinner for BD145, available from February 12 to 18. A romantic retreat is also available for BD99, with a night in the premier room, breakfast in bed, strawberries dipped in chocolate, rose petal bath, a couple’s chocolate massage and dinner at Le Sauvage, valid till February 26.

Gift a box of sweet treats from Gilt, the hotel’s in-house chocolate brand, any time of the month. The Domain also has High on Heels ladies night every day of the week at Txoko, followed by theme nights revolving around retro, Latino, house and Arabic music each day. Imari hosts the popular hot pot night on Sundays for BD8++, unlimited sushi every Monday for BD14++, while chef Riichiro’s favourite kushi mori dishes make an appearance every Wednesday for BD15++. Business lunch runs from noon to 3pm on weekdays starting from BD6. Figs and Olives serve light bites from 10am to 10pm for BD4 per person. A light snacks menu is also available for BD6 from noon to 3pm. Take away a picnic pack for just BD4++ every day. Le Sauvage has a sumptuous breakfast buffet every day from 6.30am onwards for BD10++. The popular Friday brunch is hosted from noon to 4pm with live cooking stations and an array of fare for BD19++ (BD27++ all inclusive). Call 16 000-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Hamood & Sharifa

Mariam & Maya

Birthday Party

Maya Gajria celebrated her 4th birthday at Little Princess, Seef Mall. Zahra, Maya & Ranjit

Noony, Feras & Princess with Maya

Deann, Melissa, Kiran & Maneka with their kids

Maya with x friends

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Manal & Nenah

Noony, Noof & Malaak

February 2017 101

valentine’sdining THE K HOTEL

A Luxurious Affair

Go the extra mile and treat your beloved to a luxury hotel stay at this famous landmark in the heart of the city. During this time of romance, visit The K Hotel for an exciting getaway that doesn’t require meticulous planning, tedious flights or jetlag recovery. With two carefully planned Valentine’s Day packages, the hotel is offering a great escape for you and your loved one. The ‘spend quality time together’ package encompasses three nights, with the fourth one complimentary, in the junior suite, decorated with candles and rose petals. During the day, you can rejuvenate at the Body Care Spa with a Thai massage or get pampered at the Pierre and Sanaa Beauty Salon while getting a 20 per cent discount. Later in the evening, choose to dine in the room or head to Kolors restaurant to savour the very best of regional and international gastronomy that will not just please your palate, but also your heart. Enjoy a wholesome breakfast for two the next morning at the same venue. All this for just BD85++. 102 February 2017

To mark the occasion, opt for a sumptuous meal at Kolors, which is going to be decorated with rose petals, balloons and candles. Enjoy a special buffet crafted by the executive chef along with house-made gourmet chocolates and two glasses of bubbly, priced at BD12.500 per person. Live entertainment will fill the air from 9pm-11pm. Apart from buffets for special occasions, Kolors offers contemporary modern cuisine with a touch of Asia, where guests can enjoy business lunches and themed dinner buffets every week. At the K Lounge, ladies are offered complimentary drinks from 7pm-9pm. Expect, the same welcome at Champions, the hotel’s American-style bar, where you can enjoy a variety of cold beverages while watching live sports action on TV. The weekly Friday brunch will be made even sweeter with the offer of an exclusive brunch on February 10. The four-star deluxe hotel in the heart of Juffair raises the benchmark for affordable luxury, offering five-star value for business and leisure guests.

A premier part of the Gulf Hotels Group portfolio, The K Hotel enjoys a prime location and offers 237 luxurious rooms and suites, as well as three exclusive penthouses and an exceptional variety of dining and entertainment options. A wide selection of room alternatives suits every requirement and budget, from the twolevel four-bedroom Royal Suite, to the twobedroom Amiri Suite. A two-bedroom penthouse with a private rooftop swimming pool is also available. There are 78 junior suites and 156 luxury rooms, including two fully-equipped for disabled residents. Meeting facilities, which can accommodate up to 160 people complete with audio visual equipment and support service, are also available. The K Hotel also has a health club, a rooftop swimming pool and children’s pool. The gymnasium features state-of-the-art exercise equipment and multipurpose exercise rooms, in addition to Jacuzzis, steam rooms and saunas. Call 17 360-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Lets Celebrate Valentines DayThe Mexican Way..... Enjoy 4 course set menu cooked by a real Mexican Chef BD25++ per couple

Since 1993

Located @ Adliya - For Reservation Call: 17 715521 or 39301066 Business Hours: 12noon till late

DINING

WORKING HARD FOR FOOD PUJA TIWARI Perched on a prominent corner of Block 338, is this conversation-worthy restaurant that is sure to thrill your senses in all aspects.

was surprised by the charm that enveloped The Foundry as I stepped in. True to its name, the decor is finished to imitate an industrial feel, with iron and brick fixtures. The space oozes class and old-school charm under its rugged skin. On the second floor is an airy and spacious restaurant, which is a combination of an American barbecue, French bistro and a gastropub. An eclectic array of Edison bulbs hangs from the ceiling, lending a sophisticated yet hip vibe to the room. Soon after we took a seat beside the floor-toceiling window, general manager Alberto came over to greet us and tell us more about the food. He explained that seasonality is a big factor when it comes to the menu, and great measures are taken to ensure that high-quality ingredients are sourced from the finest local and overseas suppliers. Given the premium ingredients offered, the prices are reasonable. On the weekends, a special menu consisting of roast lunch and cool cocktails means you are spoilt for choice. The à la carte menu offers American staples and comfort food. 104 February 2017

My dining companion and I started with two platters of Parisian-inspired escargots à la Bourguignonne or snails in garlic-herb butter. The sauce was almost as delicious as the escargots, smooth and complementary to their chewy texture. Jalapeno cheese poppers the size of tennis balls, possibly the largest I’ve ever seen, followed. Mild Mexican peppers filled with mozzarella and cheddar, deep fried to crispy perfection embodied comfort grub in all its glory. From the fish to the meat, everything is smoked in-house. Gravies, pickles and dressings are all created from scratch to ensure freshness. Burgers are freshly made on a daily basis in the butchery using Angus beef from the USA. Four large wooden boards, loaded with delicious fare, made quite an entrance on our table. The main course, served on stunning plates was impeccable, as was the service. I started off with the braised leg of lamb, which was fork-tender and deeply meaty, and immediately earned a spot as one of my new favourites. It literally melted in my mouth. The chargrilled sirloin steak, with fries and

ALSO THIS MONTH: 106 FUSIONS GALORE 109 FRENCH FLAIR

peppercorn sauce, was a delicious piece of mostly lean, tender meat with a bold flavour. Braised beef short ribs enticed as decadent meat fell off the bone, having been cooked for 72 hours. The rich, succulent beef is flawlessly seasoned and smoked, a must-try for every meat-lover. We did justice to the hearty portions and polished them off in less than 15 minutes. The ravioli didn’t disappoint either, but at this point we were already quite full, so all we could manage was a few bites. No meal is complete without dessert. The sticky toffee pudding and banoffee in a jar seemed like they were sent straight from the gods of all things sweet. With its inviting atmosphere and ambrosial gastronomy, The Foundry deserves a top spot on your list of places to eat. For Valentine’s Day, a special romantic set menu paired with tunes from a saxophonist will make it an affair to remember. It is open daily from noon onwards. You can follow them on Instagram @thefoundrybh. Call 69 960-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

New Year’s Get-Together

Renuka held a New Year’s get-together at her residence.

Ashish, Arpita, Lata, Renuka, Behnam, Roya & Fareed

Nonie Coutts & Ruby

Thajba & Khalid

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Rupert, Ann, Renuka & Ryan

Usha, Rekha, Bharti, Vijay & Urvashi

Renuka & Radha

Alison & Peter

Rose, Anne, Shalini & Kiran

George, Durry & Oswald

February 2017 105

dining

ASIA DE CUBA

Fusions Galore Known for its chic and stylish interiors, this upcoming restaurant complex is set to create an atmosphere of unparalleled vibrancy and sophistication, transporting guests on a journey of Latin wanderlust.

106 February 2017

Defined by beautiful bronze statues and art deco finishings, internationally acclaimed restaurant, lounge and bar, Asia de Cuba, is opening its doors in Bahrain this month. Located in the stylish new complex of Pavilion 21 in the heart of Adliya, Asia de Cuba’s Chino-Latino flare is set to take guests on a culinary adventure. Regarded as one of North America’s most iconic restaurant brands, Asia de Cuba has been designed to blend a lively atmosphere with an innovative menu. At the helm of the kitchen is Cuban-born executive chef, Luis Pous, with his menu blending Asian technique and ingredients with traditional Cuban food and culture. Guests can look forward to a variety of creatively prepared dishes, each bursting with flavour, including ceviches such as red snapper with Thai chilli, red onion, cilantro and plantains, and tuna with seared foie gras, orange, Asian pear and malanga chips. Small plates including shrimp churros with sesame and coconut curry, braised beef short ribs, chicken chicharrones, and the classic tunapica tartare with crispy wontons, Spanish olives, almonds, currants and avocado ceviche will send your taste buds over the moon. Also on offer is a variety of salads, such as crispy calamari with banana, cashews, chayote and palm hearts with orange sesame vinaigrette, and king crab and Asian pear with toasted coriander vinaigrette, orange and ancho chilli. Innovative wok dishes include the signature Chino Latino, a mix of mojo roasted lamb, jasmine rice, bean

sprouts, egg and edamame, and the mojo duck confit with brown rice, orange, poached egg, Thai basil and chilli. The chilli-rubbed scallops with black rice, black beans, roasted cauliflower and a Japanese aioli promises to become every seafood lover’s dream come true. Chef Pous has also created delicious large plates including the renowned Barrio Chino Steak and the Cumin Roasted El Lambchon. Asia de Cuba also features a wide array of ChinoLatino inspired vegetarian dishes such as sweet corn fritters with togarashi lime and Chinese eggplant with fermented black bean, green chilli and tofu. Asia de Cuba is recognised for its selection of handcrafted cocktails and beverages, inspired by the tropical natures of Asia and Cuba. It is open daily from midday onwards. Pavilion 21 is the perfect excuse to indulge in art, food and urban leisure with three dining options, an art gallery and a florist. Pavilion Café will be a vibrant eatery merging urban influence and local traditions to offer a menu of international flavours. A range of freshly prepared savoury and sweet items from its in-house bakery will be available for eating in or take away, complemented by its signature coffees prepared by master baristas. With a stylish interior and a beautiful outdoor terrace, it aims to be the neighbourhood hub for locals and tourists alike. Call 17 711-600. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining CAPITAL CLUB

A Wonderful New Addition This premier business club’s newly appointed chef strongly advocates the use of locally sourced produce for better quality. Bahrain-based Italian chef Valter Pierrgiovanni heads all the culinary aspects of the Capital Club, located at Bahrain Financial Harbour. With more than 38 years of experience, he has used his extensive culinary knowledge to introduce a low carb and gluten-free menu at the restaurant and a tapas menu at the bar. “Having worked in Japan, Singapore, New York, Australia, Russia, the Middle East and the Caribbean, I am delighted to be at the helm of the club and to lend my know-how to evolve the menu,” he says. Receiving the prestigious Cordon Bleu accolade from Paris testifies to his exceptional contribution to cuisines of all kinds. Valter is chanelling all his efforts to incorporate more local produce in the kitchen. “Except for some special ingredients, such as burrata cheese which comes from Italy, the fish, meat, poultry and vegetables are all sourced from Bahrain,” he says. “This is beneficial not just to us but also to the economy.” The chef also pays heed to members’ feedback while trying to cater to their tastes. “I like hearing from people to see what they like, and concentrate on flavour, freshness and presentation,” he says. “I plan to introduce seasonal items on the menu every three months to keep

Chef Valter Pierrgiovanni

things interesting.” When Valter isn’t whipping up gastronomic delights, he likes spending time with his wife and kids. Call 17 100-100 or email: info@capitalclubbahrain.com.

Sharif, Noor, Samar, Zeenat & Isa

Farah & Lynne

Christmas Party Omran & Rowena Al Musawi hosted their annual Christmas Party with family and friends at their residence in Saar. Omran & Rowena

Farah, Deema & Moe

Debbie & Jaffar

108 February 2017

Abbas & Qahtan

Jordan, Kenny, Husain & Rowena

Ayat & Seena

Yousif & Adeela

www.bahrainthismonth.com

SPECIAL DISCOUNT OF 20% SEAFOOD NIGHT every Thursday, from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm

Executive chef Rémy Brigaudin

GOLDEN TULIP BAHRAIN

French Flair This acclaimed four-star hotel’s executive chef is bringing new dimensions to its food and beverage outlets. Recently joined executive chef of the Golden Tulip, Rémy Brigaudin, brings with him a myriad of experience from all over the world. The French national’s love for fine cuisine began in his hometown in Rouen at an early age. “I was inspired by my grandmother, who was very creative in the kitchen, and learnt a lot from her,” he says. Finishing culinary training, Rémy decided to take up opportunities overseas in his quest for culinary perfection. “I worked with several hospitality chains in Egypt, France, USA, Croatia and Saudi Arabia before moving to Bahrain,” he comments. His main focus at the hotel for the moment is to increase footfall through the introduction of attractive monthly promotions and implementing his international expertise. “For the month of February, we will have an open melted sandwich offer at competitive prices, which we will market assertively,” he says. “The weekly seafood night is also hugely popular. “We are looking to serve quality food coupled with gracious service to our esteemed clientele.” For someone whose life revolves around the kitchen, his ultimate idea of relaxation is watching television and looking for new items to innovate his creations. “I check for the latest products to see if they can be used in bettering what we have at the restaurant and also closely monitor our competitors,” he explains.

FRIDAY FAMILY BRUNCH From 12:00 pm to 4.30 pm BAHRAIN - HOTEL

For reservations, call +973 17 535 000 or 39995181/82/42 @goldentulipbahrainhotel Golden Tulip Bahrain GTBH11 GOLDENTULIPBAHRAIN.COM

Call 17 535-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2017 109

dining

RAMEE ROSE HOTEL

Catch All the Action Whether it’s a football match or the basketball finals featuring your favourite team, this trendy sports bar offers the perfect mix of a thrilling atmosphere with unbeatable promotions.

110 February 2017

Located on the seventh floor of Ramee Rose Hotel in Juffair, Time Café delivers major league promise as it redefines the sports lounge experience and resets the benchmark for great dining. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a business entertainer or a traveller, the tempting offerings coupled with impeccable service are sure to delight you. “From the captivating allure of its bright, modern design, to the attention to detail in the creative menu selections from its live kitchen experience, the café truly raises the bar on your expectations of a sports lounge experience,” says general manager Ankush Sharma. Its stadium-like atmosphere offers enough space for avid sports fans to get lively during their favourite match on one of the 90-inch LED screens while still allowing diners the intimacy of a cosy restaurant. The eclectic menu offers a variety of global comfort food, reinvented pub fare and worthy classics, all brought to life through a live kitchen experience by a team of talented chefs. Choose from mouthwatering selections such as the Literally Popcorn Chicken, Baby’s Got Back Ribs or the T20 Murgh Makhani. Go in early and take advantage of prime time promotions like the Triple Play Happy Hour with BD1.500 on selected drinks from 11am-3pm, a 20 per cent discount on your bill from 3pm-7pm, and a buytwo-get-one deal on appetisers and selected drinks from 7pm-9pm. Another popular big league promotion is the burger and brew deal for BD6.500 all day, every day. Choose from 10 scrumptious chicken wing flavours to please any palate. Order them by the dozen or the bucket when sharing with friends. The exclusive Players Lounge offers a private

screening area and personalised service just as if you were in the owner’s box at your favourite arena. Add interactive gaming like Nintendo Wii to the mix and you have a new hotspot for the millennial crowd as well as the young at heart. With a plethora of dining and entertainment outlets, Ramee Rose Hotel caters to guests and customers from all walks of life. No matter what your palate craves, the hotel has an assortment of dining options to satisfy your appetite or help you unwind after a long day. Designed as a cosy retreat, La Patisserie offers a selection of the finest tea and coffee, juices and delicious eats such as English scones, fruit tarts, éclairs, cakes, pastries and sandwiches from 10am-10pm. Head to Rauchi for delicious Asian fusion fare, or enjoy some truly Arabian flavours at Takasim. Partygoers on the island can get their dose of revelry at the hotel’s two nightclubs, Club XS and Kabayanz. Time café is open 24 hours a day. Call 17 616-167. www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

WEEKEND FUN The elegant and stylish Oliveto joins the bandwagon by hosting live lunches every Friday and Saturday, with sharp, modern decor and an impressive outdoor setting, the menu is dotted with range of classic Italian as well as more modern dishes. There will be live cooking stations, pizzaiolo, a mixologist, live music and a DJ; priced at BD18++. Call 17 716-747.

STREET FOOD EXOTICA

Experience authentic Asian street food by renowned restaurateur, Wolfgang Puck, at re/Asian Cusine, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, every first Tuesday of the month, from February 7 until May. Enjoy live cooking stations with unlimited Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, Thai and Indonesian cuisines. Fusion delicacies, such as fried noodle mie goreng, spicy chilli pan mee, or the juicy Korean short ribs, will be whipped up right in front of you. The Mei Yue Market is priced at BD24++, and is available from 7pm onwards. Call 17 115-046.

SUNDAY BEST

Bahrain’s restaurants are well known for their amazing quality and varied menus. Combining these aspects with outstanding value for money is a little more difficult to achieve. Expat clubs, however, can bring incredible value for money and fine food to the table. This is certainly the case with the recently revamped Bistro restaurant at the Dilmun Club in Saar. Every Sunday evening, it offers a fourcourse ‘table d’hôte’ menu consisting of the finest cuts of meat, fish and vegetarian options. Tailor-made for couples, it is essentially an intimate dinner under the stars –if you choose the outside patio - for a price of only BD20 per couple, including beverages. Call 17 690-926.

MULTI-COURSE DELIGHTS Situated in the heart of Zinj next to Nasser Pharmacy, Yellow Line restaurant boasts sumptuous food, that delights the senses and pampers the taste buds. It serves a fusion of Arabic, Indian and Chinese cuisines by trained chefs hand-picked from around the world. The restaurant offers high-quality service, with free home delivery, an indoor party hall for parties and corporate gatherings as well as a cutting edge outdoor catering facility for special occasions and parties. Enjoy an array of delicacies at affordable prices. Call 17 813-811.

GASTRONOMY ON THE GO After the success of founder Roaya Saleh’s maiden venture Villa Mamas, a home-style Middle Eastern restaurant, she is taking her food out onto the streets of Bahrain with the launch of her Food Truck ‘VM1856’. It is a customised, imported classic school bus fitted with the latest catering equipment, creating an innovative way to offer Villa Mamas’ organic, healthy snacks and drinks to diners. It comes with its own pop-up restaurant together with outdoor seating. To find out the bus schedule and locations, follow @VM1856 on Instagram. Call 17 305-031.

JOURNEY OF FLAVOURS Shop Bahrain’s ‘Taste Tour’ is in full swing and continues until February 18, featuring 29 participating restaurants from around the island. Visitors can sample a variety of special dishes at reasonable prices, ranging from BD5 to BD12. Tasters stand a chance to win a Q50 Infinity as part of the raffle draw. Some of the restaurants you can enjoy are Monsoon, Passion, The Orangery, China Garden (Gulf Hotel), Soie (Sheraton Hotel), Vento (Four Seasons Bahrain Bay), Nomad Eatery, Majestea and more. Visit www.shopbahrain.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? Sunday-Thursday Event? Think out of the Lunch Box Venue? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Enjoy a delectable set of dishes for BD8 if you choose two courses or BD10 for three from noon-3pm. E Call 17 531-122. When? Every Saturday from February 4 Event? Grape and Cheese Night Venue? ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands A wide selection of beverages with the finest cheese along with live entertainment awaits you for BD12++, from 4pm-8pm. E Call 16 000-000. When? February 24 Event? Truffle Dinner Venue? CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Enjoy a special dinner with truffles for BD55++ exclusive. E Call 17 115-000. When? Every Thursday Event? Seafood Night Venue? Baharat Indulge in a wide selection of fresh oysters, prawns, lobster thermidor, sushi, clams, fresh fish fillets and mussels for BD16++. E Call 17 171-441. When? February 10 Event? Afro Caribbean Brunch Venue? Upstairs Downstairs, Adliya Enjoy afro beats, hip-hop, reggae and more with a sumptuous buffet for BD26, hosted from noon-4pm. E Call 17 713-093. When? Daily Event? Combo Meal Promotion Venue? Espressamente Illy Café, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Enjoy a salad, soup, main course and dessert for BD5.900++ inclusive of a soft drink or water. E Call 17 533-533. When? February 24 Event? Grape Dinner Venue? La Med, Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Learn and discuss beverages with expert sommelier, Valentina, before continuing to a lavish setmenu dinner. E Call 17 586-499. When? Every Wednesday Event? Steak Night Venue? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Unlimited steaks and salads from 7pm onwards for BD21.750. E Call 17 531-122.

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What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Sublime Scents Renowned French perfume brand Teo Cabanel introduces its two latest fragrances for men – Jaspé and Kasar. Jaspé is both elegant and modern, opening with fresh top notes of bergamot and lavender. It progresses with fern and geranium scents uplifted by the subtle spiciness of cardamom and nutmeg. The base notes reveal a harmony of wood essences: vetiver, sandalwood and papyrus, with a hint of sensuous leather. Kasar is mysterious and strong, with a true Oriental composition lightened by a citrus top note. It gradually displays spicy, yet discreet, middle notes of saffron, cinnamon and nutmeg. It then grows into a woody accord where oud wood, patchouli, cedar and cyst, mellowed by warm musks, harmonise beautifully. Available at The Perfume Lounge, Seef Mall.

Glow from Within Make Up For Ever launches its all new Glow Fusion Range to go from natural to glamorous in no time. With its line-up of eight shades, Star Lit Powder sculpts and illuminates the face, and can be applied dry or wet. Available in two shades, Pro Light Fusion is a new-generation luminiser which accentuates the complexion with a natural glow. Available at all Make Up For Ever boutiques.

Slim and Stylish Jaeger-LeCoultre brings you two new watches from the Master Ultra Thin line. The latest models, with the userfriendliness of an ultra-thin automatic movement, provide the essential functions of a classically elegant timepiece in an entirely pared-down version or accompanied by a useful complication. Available at leading retailers. 112 February 2017

Presidential Palette OPI’s Washington DC collection delivers a dramatic and sophisticated spin on classic autumn colours. The 12 permanent and three limited-edition shades are all available in both Nail Lacquer and GelColor formulas. Available at leading retailers. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

ASIA JEWELLERS

Uniting Legends

Time unites twin traditions of production and expertise as this renowned Swiss manufacture introduces its latest watch.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

After celebrating the 50th anniversary of Cohiba with the creation of three commemorative limited editions, Zenith is paying tribute to this Cuban legend with the production of a watch that fits into the very heart of its collection. The El Primero ‘Legend of Cohiba’ embodies the excellence, precision and expertise that unite Zenith and Cohiba. Lovers of beautiful objects and fans of blue smoke swirls are sure to fall for this subtle blend of pink gold and Havana hues. Half a century after their creation, the Habanos Cohiba and El Primero watches still retain the attributes that have forged their reputation and multiaward-winning excellence. More than 50 years ago, in 1962, the first lines of the El Primero movement appeared on a drawing board. The aim was to create an iconic watch for the 100th anniversary of Zenith in 1965. Given the difficulty of resolving the complexity of this legendary calibre, this watchmaking feat was finally achieved in 1969. Meanwhile, Cohiba emerged as the ‘Flagship of all Habanos’ in 1966. Time united the two icons in 2016 through the creation of a unique watch collection celebrating their excellence, expertise and supremacy. A Habano is a prestigious object that, just like a watch, embodies an entire tradition of historical production and know-how. Tobacco came to the Old World following the discovery of the New World by Christopher Columbus. More than 500 years later, the most famous cigar brand in the world has partnered with Zenith in a joint celebration of what time has brought them. On this occasion, the El Primero ‘Legend of Cohiba’ housing its emblematic El Primero movement – the

world’s most precise high-frequency chronograph punctuating the time at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations an hour and marking tenths of seconds – sets aside its legendary tricolour light grey, anthracite and blue outfit to adopt the colours of the Cohiba. The middle of its 42mm pink gold case is engraved with the year 1966. The small seconds at nine o’clock reveals the profile of the aboriginal chief Taíno – the emblem of Cohiba. The dial displays the golden nuances of a tobacco leaf and bears the brand’s signature rings. In a subtle reminder of measurement, its emblematic lines cross the dial, vertically accentuating the width of the watch, just like a cigar on which they indicate the diameter. Complemented by a brown alligator leather strap with orange and yellow-tinted lining, the watch comes in an exclusive wooden presentation box featuring the same colours as the legendary Habanos. Zenith timepieces are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers. Call 17 534-444 or visit www.asiajewellers.com. February 2017 113

marketplace AMBASSADOR STORES

The Alpha Watch

Time and tide wait for no man; and this topend line of timepieces reminds you to seize the moment and live to the fullest. As a product of the world-renowned Seiko Watch Corporation, Alba presents an excitingly unique line of watches with fresh and novel designs to suit a contemporary lifestyle. Available in four distinct collections — Sign A, Prestige, Active and Fashion — Alba exemplifies the great watch-making credentials established by its parent company. The brand was born in Japan in 1979 and became an instant success, thanks to its value, design and quality, backed at every level by Seiko. Every Alba wristwatch shares three common characteristics that make it stand out from the rest – design that’s truly unique, quality that takes great pride in being outstanding and price that’s incredibly 114 February 2017

affordable. Moreover, every element in these timepieces carries the mark of trust that Seiko has been upholding for decades, which earns and holds the company’s loyal customer base. The word Alba is an ancient term for ‘dawn’, as used and passed down the generations in the Spanish and Latin languages. It denotes light, hope and new beginnings. In keeping with its symbolic name, the brand’s superlative design and durability resonates with people who cherish life and strive to make the most of it. It is little wonder then that Alba has grown rapidly all across Asia and the Middle East, with new satisfied customers being added to the label’s fan following every day. Each of the brand’s categories is suited to the modern metropolitan with diverse affinities and interests. Whether it is for work or play, an Alba watch makes a style statement that is hard to miss. So whether in the boardroom or

on the field, Alba will be your constant companion, reminding you to bring out the best in yourself at all times. The collections include some very masculine pieces that look appealing on a strong wrist, as well as some delicate ones that suit a lady’s wrist perfectly. Ambassador Stores has the exclusive dealership of Seiko and Alba watches in the Kingdom. Located on Government Avenue close to Bab Al Bahrain, the company is also the agent of Yamaha, one of the world’s leading high-end professional musical equipment and audio/video brands. Ambassador Stores has always been known for providing highperformance products, customer-friendly service and excellent value for money. The shop opens from 8.30am to 12.30pm and 3.30pm to 7.30pm throughout the week. Call 17 225-513. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander OTHER EVENTS

Farhat International Tours & Travels celebrated its 10th year anniversary at Al Bander Resort.

Adnan and Faye Sharabi hosted a New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve dinner party at their residence. Back Row: Dr Mohamed Khozai, Anne Al Jalahma, Faye, Adnan, June Al Safar, Dr Bahiya Al Jishi & Jalil Al Safar Front Row: Sadaf Karim, Leah Churchill & Jennie Povey

Mohammed Jalal & Sons Group launched its new website during an event at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.

CrediMax conducted a fire drill exercise at its headquarters in Seef.

The United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Al Areen Lions Club and the International Social Media Club Middle East honoured the winners of a youth speech writing competition.

Al Safir Hotel and Tower held a Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Single Table Tennis Open Tournament at Fitness Tower.

Y K Almoayyed & Sons received three diligent employee awards and one distinguished manager award from the Ministry of Labour & Social Development.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2017 115

marketplace JOZ SALON & SPA

Bikini Wax Survival Tips

The pain: Waxing is a pretty aggressive technique. There isn’t any kind of anesthesia or pain killer that can lessen the pain. Ask your aesthetician if she can recommend any numbing creams or moisturisers that could make your experience less painful. These may need to be used up to an hour beforehand. Going for an intimate wax definitely doesn’t qualify as a relaxing trip to the spa. Get answers to your questions about managing waxing pain and other aspects of the sometimes uncomfortable procedure. Preparing for your first bikini wax, especially the take-it-all-off Brazilian bikini wax, may be a bit nerve wracking. You probably have questions about the process, mixed with concerns about pain. But others have gone before you and lived to tell about it. Even a Brazilian wax, in which hair is completely removed from your intimate areas, takes less than an hour to complete, depending on your response to it and the efficiency of your waxer. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned veteran, head down to Joz Salon & Spa and put your mind at ease with these useful tips. Unlike other body hair waxing, this area is difficult to do yourself. This procedure is often done by aestheticians trained in hair and skin care. The first step is to decide how much hair you want removed. The cost, duration and pain of the procedure depends on that decision, so be sure you and your waxer are in agreement. 116 February 2017

Your options are:

Extended bikini wax: Hair is removed up to two inches inside the bikini line.

Time it: Schedule your wax so that it occurs well before or well after your period. The days around your period come with an increased sensitivity to pain. Breathe and relax. The pain and the experience are only temporary – tensing up makes it worse.

Partial Brazilian bikini wax: Hair is removed extensively in the groin area, leaving a thin strip pointing upwards toward your bellybutton. You do have some creative licence with the shaping.

Ingrown hairs: Some women may experience ingrown hairs as their hair grows back in. You can reduce this risk by gently exfoliating and moisturising the skin.

Full Brazilian wax: All hair is removed across the intimate areas. If there are any stray hairs after the waxing, your therapist will probably pluck them.

Bleeding: There is a slight risk of bleeding, but if you do bleed it is likely to be only a small amount.

Traditional bikini wax: Only the hair outside the bikini coverage area will be removed.

Common Concerns It helps to be educated about the waxing routine and its risks in advance. The process: You will be asked to remove all clothes below your waist. Your waxer may give you a small temporary thong to wear. You then lie down. She may first trim the hair with scissors. She will then use a stick or spatula to apply hot wax in patches, and then use a clean cloth to peel the wax and hair off your skin.

Allergic reactions: Most women will not have an allergic reaction. Your skin is usually sensitive after waxing, and your waxer may apply a cooling moisturiser to help ease the immediate irritation. If itching, dryness or redness lasts more than a day or so and cannot be eased by moisturising, you may need to consult a dermatologist. On the whole, getting a bikini wax is usually safe, even if it is painful. Call 17 369-133, 16 031-120 or 17 756-449. www.bahrainthismonth.com

HILAL CONFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS

Industry Event Plans Major Forums

The Prime Minister visits an exhibit

An Indian business summit and strategic industrial dialogue will form the highlights of this much anticipated event.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gulf Industry Fair 2017 (GIF), organised by Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions (HCE), will break new ground by hosting two major forums highlighting Bahrain’s key role as a conduit for industrialisation in the GCC. The GCC’s industrial B2B showcase will present the Indian Business Partnership Summit on February 7, at 2pm. The summit is led by India’s PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which will be bringing a delegation of 30 businesses and entrepreneurs for the Gulf Industry Fair. It will explore potential investment opportunities between India, Bahrain and the GCC, with the intent to further trade relations. Bilateral trade between Bahrain and India is already worth more than USD1 billion. “The business summit brought to us by PHD will play a practical role in Bahrain’s plans towards attracting foreign companies to take advantage of the Kingdom’s strategic location for the northern Gulf,” says HCE’s managing director Jubran Abdulrahman. PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s delegation of companies will also be exhibiting under the umbrella of the fair’s Indian Pavilion. The companies, some of which are new to the GCC market, include a range of India’s leading industrial experts specialising in logistics, infrastructure, renewable energy, power and manufacturing. Indian companies attending the event include Packraft Container India, Elektromag Devices, Maxmech Equipments, Swastik Furnaces and Green Planet Technologies. Bahrain Industrial Association and Gulf Industry Fair will present the GIF Dialogue — Future of Industry in the GCC — on February 8, comprising a roundtable discussion for Bahrain’s industrial leaders to consider policy and initiatives to encourage

industrial development. Officials from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Majaal, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Economic Development Board (EDB), National Academy for Professional Training and BIA will join together to discuss issues surrounding regulations to stimulate industrial development, foreign investment opportunities, industrial facilities, the industrial economic outlook and training for industrial needs. “GIF will present a dialogue where the region’s leading industrialists can address initiatives to improve industrial developments,” comments Mr Jubran Abdulrahman. The Indian Summit and the GIF Dialogue will both be held at Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre where the northern Gulf’s leading annual industrial expo takes place from February 7-9 under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain. Gulf Industry Fair 2017 is sponsored by the Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO) and Aluminium Bahrain (ALBA) in association with NOGA. Majaal and NAFFCO will be supporting the Industrial Facilities and Fire and Safety sectors, respectively. Supporting organisations include AHK Saudi Arabia, India’s PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the German Saudi Arabian Liaison for Economic Affairs, the Saudi British Economic Offset Programme and the Bahrain Industrial Association. Attendance at the events is free but pre-registration is required as spaces are limited. To register for the Summit and the Dialogue, send details to sarah@ tradearabia.net

Exhibits at a previous event

February 2017 117

marketplace

Dr Huda Al-Ansari

Dr Saba Aqil

MIDDLE EAST HOSPITAL

All-Round Care for Little Ones The next time your child needs medical attention, head to this hospital which provides superior expertise for kids.

118 February 2017

The paediatric clinic at Middle East Hospital (MEH) is headed by consultant paediatrician Dr Huda Al-Ansari, a member of the Arab Board of Paediatrics and a fellow of infectious diseases and clinical immunology. She is joined by Dr Saba Aqil, another children’s specialist. The comprehensive care given at MEH covers the treatment of all conditions afflicting youngsters, from newborns to adolescents. The department provides a complete check-up for babies with jaundice, addresses feeding problems and manages neonatal infections, particularly in infants born of mothers with hepatitis. It is open to patients with or without appointments from 8am to 8.30pm every day except Fridays. There is a 24-hour on-call paediatrician available as well. For treatment of acute seasonal infections, gastroenteritis and respiratory illnesses, the MEH clinic is the best place for your child to feel comfortable and recuperate quickly with professional care. All vaccinations from newborns to teenagers are also administered here. Dr Aqil stresses the importance of giving your child their immunisations on time. She says that all the latest vaccinations listed by the World Health Organisation are available at the hospital. The experts at MEH can ably manage immune deficiency cases, anaemia and sickle cell diseases, as well as asthma, tuberculosis, lymph node

enlargement, kidney disorders, convulsions and neurological ailments. According to Dr Al-Ansari, treating children with specific diseases that they are born with and seeing them respond to their care is one of the most gratifying attributes of being a paediatrician. Moreover, not only are the professionals at MEH well versed in their fields of practice, they are also backed by the latest state-ofthe-art facilities to enable them to work with kids of all ages. The paediatric department is located on the first floor of the hospital, and has a separate area dedicated solely to the comfort of young ones. There is a secure kids’ play area with many colourful and creative toys to keep youngsters engrossed while waiting their turn to see the doctor. As an added convenience, the department has its own reception and cashier, enabling the waiting time to be reduced to a minimum. The hospital is located in Segaya near Al Hayat Shopping Centre, and has a multistory car park with ample parking spaces. It is Bahrain’s new purposebuilt medical facility, offering patients the most modern technology and the best attention and treatment. MEH offers 24-hour emergency care and is affiliated with many insurance companies. Call 17 362-233, follow mehospitalbh on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook or visit www.mehospital.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

SAAR MALL

Shopaholics’ Paradise Amongst the number of shopping arcades claiming attention in the country, this one stands out for its customer-centric approach.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

In Bahrain, malls have always been favourite haunts over the weekends or holidays for with their variety of products and services available under one roof. Furthermore, their location, customer-friendly environment, interior design and theme are major factors contributing to their popularity amongst the general public. One such retail hub is the contemporary and stylish Saar Mall, which was officially inaugurated in August 2012. It has since become the talk of the upscale Saar area and its surrounding neighbourhoods. Visitors enjoy the ultimate shopping experience, in the heart of one of Bahrain’s wellknown districts, that has something for everyone. It covers 55,000sq/m of commercial, dining and leisure alternatives and its 400 parking spaces ensure ease of access. The family-focused destination boasts top-notch brands, restaurants, cafés, banks, an indoor play area, the Big Game Zone, and a minicinema for kids alongside the convenience of Geant Easy supermarket on its premises. Visiting Saar Mall is a win-win situation for islanders, as not only can they partake in a shopping spree at par with international standards, but can also take advantage of the high quality of goods and services available at prices consistently lower than any other local retailer. It fulfils the needs and requirements of Bahrain’s population, along with offering a slew of options to suit all kinds of tastes and preferences. Surrounded by a fast-developing residential quarter, sports clubs and recreational outlets, this commercial centre is known to be the focal point of activity in the

area. Besides offering over 70 international points-ofsale, it also hosts regular social and cultural events such as Gergaon, Think Pink, Labour Day dinner, National Day and Eid festivities, thus enabling the community to share great times together. The complex has now geared up for the third edition of the Bahrain Shopping Festival – Shop Bahrain – in cooperation with Tamkeen, and looks forward to bringing visitors and residents an exciting month-long consumer extravaganza, with the opportunity to enjoy unique family entertainment, special promotions and raffle draws for high-value prizes. The ongoing nation-wide event will run until February 18, providing locals and tourists the best of retail, entertainment, tourism and the hospitality sector in Bahrain. Saar Mall is participating in the top category of this event. This means shoppers will be awarded three points against each Bahraini dinar they spend, giving them more returns for their expenses by shopping at the mall. Besides a host of exciting offers – a raffle draw on social media, a festival booklet, a colourful theme and a special festival booth inside the complex – patrons can also benefit from the promotional campaign by Batelco, with lots of gifts, offers and giveaways. One lucky winner of the Grand Raffle draw will win a car from Shop Bahrain, which is on display at the centre. Saar Mall looks forward to giving its clientele a new and memorable experience of Shop Bahrain this year. Call 17 790-203. February 2017 119

marketplace

Dr Farouq A Al-Hamdan

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Demystifying Back and Neck Pain Dr Farouq A Al-Hamdan, senior consultant spinal surgeon, explains a condition that affects so many of us.

Back and neck pain is a common condition that affects all age groups. It is estimated that 80 per cent of the population will suffer from the condition at some time during their life. This type of pain is more common in industrialised and modern societies, and less so in agricultural and primitive societies because of the difference in lifestyle. In some estimates, the direct and indirect cost of back pain diagnosis and management to American society is up to USD100 billion annually. Back and neck pain can start with or without injury, sudden movement or excessive activity. It can be in the cervical [neck] region, dorsal region and/or the lumbar or sacral [lower back] area. Pain can radiate from the neck to the head, shoulders and upper extremities or from the lumbar region to the buttocks and lower extremities. CAUSES Back and neck pain can be due to worn-out spinal discs and joints, muscle spasm, nerve pinching, slipped disc or vertebra. It can also be attributed to simple causes such as weak muscles and poor posture through lack of fitness. Other risk factors include carrying excess weight, smoking, and sitting at a desk for long periods. Operating or driving certain machinery or vehicles, such as trucks, can also be a risk factor and most women in the final months of pregnancy will experience lower back pain. PRESENTATION The condition is usually shown through a limitation of

120 February 2017

movement with pain, tenderness and muscle spasm, weakness or numbness in the lower extremities. DIAGNOSIS Identifying the causes of back and neck pain involves careful history taking, clinical examination, X-ray and MRI. Sometimes other options will be used such as nerve or blood testing. TREATMENT The recommended action for back and neck pain depends on the clinical diagnosis and test results. Most treatment initially is conservative [non-surgical], which includes rest, pain medications and re-evaluation. If the pain is severe or associated with muscle weakness or numbness in the upper or lower extremities, further options are needed. These include injections or surgery. If a sufferer is experiencing weakness in the extremities or loss of bowel or bladder control, they should immediately seek medical attention as this indicates severe nerve compression and will need emergency treatment. PREVENTION Back and neck pain can be minimised or prevented by avoiding the above risk factors, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight and establishing a proper sitting position. Dr Al-Hamdan is also director of the Spine Science Institute, Washington. Call 17 812-222 or email farouq.alhamdan@bsh.com.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ROTARY CLUB OF SULMANIYA

Paddling for Good

Plans are under way for the Rotary Club of Sulmaniya’s major annual fundraiser, the 38th Rotary Raft Race, which is expected to take place at Al Bander Hotel and Resort at the end of March. Over the years the raft race has enjoyed great success, attracting teams and visitors from major national and international companies represented in Bahrain, as well as prominent families and clubs. The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya has helped numerous charities in Bahrain over the past 45 years through the support of sponsors, raising more than BD2 million, which has been used to help a variety of charitable organisations, including the Friendship Society for the Blind, the Handicapped Centre, UCO Parents Care Centre, The Bahrain Down Syndrome Society, Isa Town Rehabilitation Centre, Alia for Early Intervention and The Bahraini Association for Mental Retardation. The theme of this year’s event will be fighting cancer, with benefitting charities still to be decided. A spokesman says: “Every year, more than 400 Bahrainis are diagnosed with cancer, with breast and lung cancers leading the chart representing more than 30 per cent of total cases reported. According to updated figures released by the Ministry of Health, an average of 86.3 cases are diagnosed every year for every 100,000 Bahraini men, compared with an average of 97.5 for women. Genetic history, lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, diet and lack of physical activity, certain types of infections, and environmental exposure

to different types of chemicals and radiation are often cited as the main causes of cancer. These facts are reason enough for us to take the initiative in raising awareness of fighting cancer to the public and to encourage the community to adopt a healthy lifestyle.” Call Hassan Al Monsor 39 009-933, Janan Habib 39 636-399, Yasser Al Tahboun 39 687-505, Sebahat Isik 39 605-349 or email ri2450@batelco. com.bh

Huda & Bader

Jamaica

Saydala & Omar

Rose

Chocolate Bar Opening Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA), inaugurated the new Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar in Seef. The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Jennifer, Carol & Ivic

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ahmed

Mohammed, Ali, Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa & Khalid

February 2017 121

marketplace ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Expertise in Non-Invasive Treatments Dr Nailah Nisar, obstetrics and gynaecology consultant at this renowned hospital, speaks about the procedures that can be carried out at the outpatient department instead of the operating theatre.

Dr Nailah Nisar

The ambulatory gynaecology clinic is a modern facility where same-day surgical care is carried out. The Royal Bahrain Hospital is aptly equipped with this amenity, headed by Dr Nisar, who has work experience spanning over 33 years. With the introduction of the latest technological inventions, doctors are able to perform various diagnostic and treatment procedures without the need for big incisions, resulting in minimal discomfort, pain or scarring. Recovery time is comparatively quicker with these methods. Among them is hysteroscopy, which is the process of examining the cervical

Paula & Brett

canal and lining of the womb with a very fine telescope of 3.5mm thickness, done for women with abnormal uterine or postmenopausal bleeding. The sample from the lining of the womb is taken with a small plastic tube and is then analysed microscopically. If small polyps or growths are found, they can be removed at the same time. Colposcopy, which is done to examine abnormal areas in the cervix, can help identify precancerous cells and is done under local anesthesia. Several cosmetic practices such as laser vaginal rejuvenation, labiaplasty, wart removal and perineoplasty are also offered by specialists. Contraception, STD check-ups, investigation of infertility, recurrent miscarriages and early pregnancy problems and treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome are also provided. Call 17 246-800.

Zaina & Ali

Mohammed & Abdulla

Restaurant Opening The Ark seafood restaurant held its grand opening ceremony at the Garden Plaza in Budaiya. Faisal Jawad, Judith Jawad & Isa Ali

Ahmed, Faisal & Abdulla

Mahmood, Amira & Hamza

122 February 2017

Sophia, Ahmed & Judith

Sarah & Moayed

Redha Karami & Isa Ali

James

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace business bites

New Flights Announced The Kingdom’s national carrier, Gulf Air, has commenced direct operations to Bandaranaike International Airport, in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo, with five flights per week. The company’s CEO, Maher Salman Al Musallam, says: “We are delighted to strengthen our Asia network with the launch of direct flights to Colombo. We expect our newest destination to further enhance Gulf Air’s network, in line with our strategy to provide strong business and tourism links to Bahrain and the region while simultaneously appealing to our passengers’ travel requirements.” The airline has also revealed it will open a new route to Georgia, with direct flights to and from the capital city of Tbilisi, which will come into effect from June 2017. There will be three weekly flights to and from Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport.

MOU Targets Entrepreneur Development

As part of Tamkeen’s efforts to aid the Kingdom’s economic development through programmes which include supporting Bahraini entrepreneurs, it signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) for the Accelerator Programme, aiming to expand businesses by offering a package of advisory services to help Bahraini businesses reach a turnover of USD1 million. This newly developed programme has been tested and applied in a number of countries, resulting in success for businesses that needed non-financial support to expand. This included training and mentoring programmes. Since its launch in 2007, 2,804 businesses have joined the Accelerator Program and, today, it incorporates 857 companies across 43 locations around the world. Dr Ebrahim Mohammed Janahi, the chief executive of Tamkeen, says: “Fifteen candidates will benefit from this joint cooperation during the next three years. The programme aims to accelerate business organisations that have achieved an annual income rate with an estimate of USD250,000.” There will be a comprehensive assessment of each participating company, which includes the study of strategy, workforce, capital and the business operational plan. The programme will provide participants with business expertise and advice based on the nature of the businesses and their needs. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Hotel Garners International Recognition Downtown Rotana is proudly celebrating a number of international awards for the property and its restaurant outlets. The hotel was declared the ‘Luxury City Hotel’ in Bahrain by the prestigious World Luxury Hotel Awards 2016 as recognition of its sustained commitment to excellence. It also received accolades for its two dining outlets; the signature Teatro Downtown was named Hotel Restaurant of the Year 2016 by the Luxury Travel Guide Awards 2016 and the all-day-dining venue Flavours on 2 was crowned Best All-Day Dining Restaurant in Bahrain 2016 by a local media company. General manager, Patrice Cornee, says: “We are delighted to be recognised as the Luxury City Hotel in Bahrain, which goes to show the quality of services on offer in our hotel. The hospitality sector is an ever-changing industry which requires you to manage customer expectations when they enter a luxurious hotel. This award stands testament to our commitment to reflect the high standards set by the Rotana Group.” He was also delighted at the restaurant awards and paid tribute to staff.

Bahrainisation Efforts Recognised

CrediMax, the leading credit card issuer and acquirer in the Kingdom, received the ‘GCC Excellence in Employment and Labor Localization Award’ at a ceremony at the Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The 15th edition of the annual awards ceremony honours private institutions and companies that have put distinctive efforts into the employment and localisation of their workforce, and was held on the sidelines of the third session of the GCC Ministers of Labour and Social Affairs Council Summits. “CrediMax is very proud and honoured to be recognised in such a ceremony. This award proves our continuous drive to be the leader in local human capital employment,” says chief executive of CrediMax, Yousif Ali Mirza. February 2017 123

marketplace business bites

Green Businesses Recognised Tenmou, Bahrain’s first ‘Business Angels’ organisation, hosted the first Future Agro Challenge (FAC) in the Kingdom. FAC is a featured event of Global Entrepreneurship Week and works to make a difference by increasing interaction among agro innovators, entrepreneurs and stakeholders by addressing national policies and challenges for the future of the agriculture sector. The aim of the event is to promote innovative agro start-ups and entrepreneurs to contribute to the success of agriculture and the food ecosystem in Bahrain. Eight start-ups participated in the challenge. Ebrahim Hameed, of Green Path, walked away with the first prize, a flight ticket to Johannesburg, South Africa, and three months co-working space at Tenmou’s offices. He is scheduled to participate in the Global Championship in Johannesburg in March. The runner-up teams were Sawsan Taher from Lily Organics, Ebrahim Almulla and Ali Isa from Green Sky and Jehad Jaffar from Food Plant Teabag, each being offered three months of co-working space at Tenmou’s offices.

Developer Takes CSR Prize Diyar Al Muharraq, one of the Kingdom’s leading urban developers, capped off a successful year by earning the Golden Shield Award from the Arab Organization for Social Responsibility during its 11th annual awards ceremony which was held in collaboration with Excellence Awards Company. The company’s CEO, Dr Maher Al Shaer, says: “We at Diyar Al Muharraq have always been keen on promoting the concept of social responsibility in both private and public sectors through a great number of initiatives that have aimed at and succeeded in supporting social development. We are deeply proud of how Diyar Al Muharraq inspires official institutions to engage in social responsibility, as our project highlights the importance work that benefits the local community as a whole and contributes in improving the standard of living for individuals.”

New Projects Announced Household Emergencies Go Online Khadamaaty, an online platform that provides a range of household services such as cleaning, fixing, plumbing, electricians, moving furniture, carpentry and more, announced its official launch in the Kingdom. The platform allows people who need help in fixing anything at home, or just want to outsource tasks, to post their jobs online, then Khadamaaty connects them to qualified service providers available to help. Waleed Janahi, co-founder and CEO of Khadamaaty, says: “Our mission is to bring households a fast solution to a painful problem: resolving emergency problems at home. Khadamaaty provides a wide range of household services on its online platform, and will connect residents to service providers with much ease, to provide quick and reliable solutions for sudden problems. Our plan is to start by launching online maintenance services such as electrical, plumbing, cleaning and gardening. We will keep signing up new service providers and adding new services every week.” 124 February 2017

Amlak, the real estate investment arm of the Social Insurance Organisation (SIO), has released details of its coming developments. A Bahrain-based contractor has been appointed for The Sixty Six, a six-storey residential building in Umm Al Hassam, which includes fully furnished apartments along with a recreational floor. The company’s CEO, Mohammed Abdulelah Alkooheji, says: “We are currently studying the possibility of developing a project in Janabiya, called Mirage Palms. It will consist of a residential compound that includes 30 housing units divided into three groups of luxury villas, as well as a private pool and multi-use recreational area. “Other items currently under discussion are a housing project for mid-income families. This will be developed with strategic partners. Also, we are looking at developing a residential project in the Seef District that comprises 190 apartments spread across 41 floors.” Plans were also recently announced to transform the 13 existing markets under Amlak’s portfolio into modern mixed-use facilities with Souq Al Buhair being the first to undergo an upgrade. www.bahrainthismonth.com

lastword

Old Man’s Rant GEG HOPKINS

So what did you initially find attractive in billionaire Donald Ms Knavs? Who could blame Donald when he first clocked Her Gorgeousness? ‘Premature Congratulation’ comes to mind in more ways than one though, as it is going to be all out war with the main stream media and the ‘Useful Idiots’ and political sulkers on the Trump offensive for the next four years. Citizens might even die and Betty’s guess is more white than black. It always has been that way, but the Luvvies nurture the contrary because it generates far more reaction. Maybe Detroit will sprout new life and ‘Jesuisblack people’ (no longer ridiculously termed ‘African Americans’) will flourish. A new generation of babies uttering their first half sentences; ‘Mother…………..’ Life is going to be ‘Donald GREAT’ again. Or not! George Soros oiled the inferno, covertly out of sight but financing dissent through his bottomless pit of NGOs. This he does rather than giving some of his zillions back to society. With the media KGB and debase cloaked politicians far more obsessed with sexual preferences than mushroom clouds over North Korea, one suspects the LGBTPaeds acronym created by this ruling closet will be shortened to just LGB again during The Donald domain. Just as the BBC thought they had it in the bag to ‘normalise’ and even legalise paedophilia, having successfully bombarded and brainwashed nations over the past 40 odd years with gayness from the age of five in schools, we might instead find child killers on death row. CNN and others will fade to oblivion, with the www.bahrainthismonth.com

ego-drenched journalists and reporters changing spots and networks as their credibility is shot to pieces. Sadly, the BBC will still be forced upon us for just a few more years. That same BBC would love to ask Donald openly what his bent is but dare not. For sure, one outrageous a-hole will not be able to resist. Imagine the interview: “Truthfully Mr Trump, What is your sexual orientation?” Trump: “Horizontal mostly, but occasionally I go rodeo,” without a hint of humour or perception because The Donald is not a witty person in the least, it seems. It was never rocket science to expect this pathetically hypocritical violence and spoilt rage by the brash, outrageously arrogant and oblivious who have had it far too good for far too long. These ‘Useful Idiots’ have to be ‘de-programmed’ and that was not in Lenin’s manifesto, nor Saul Alinksy’s dissertation thus Hilary’s (sealed) one either, or the assemblage occupying Europe. So this is a new territory for the world. The Russians might have had something to do with it in the early part of last century, but now? Ho Ho Ho! Although Betty – our intrepid spokesman – er woman (This silly PC is about to change and the apparel lumps which might have been politically Photoshopped out in the past, will re-appear), has inroads to the Russian elite. The very day after Trump’s inauguration, she asked one of her Kremlin contacts when they were moving into the White House. ‘Yesterday’ he answered. Across Europe and the UK similar Tumpets are a foregone conclusion and it has nothing to do with indoctrination as is the case with the Fabian debased mentioned. Folk are simply fed up with it. But be aware, very aware, this displaced closet will create Mad Max and still

blame everyone else, yet when all is said and done, it is this lot who created Trump in the first place. Claims that we the awoken, previously comatose, are ‘unreasonably violent’ with Nazi tendencies is as disingenuous as those who perpetrate it. Deemed ‘Right Wing Fascist’ if you don’t agree with the Euro-HilaryObamacrats, yet really most of us are just .. um.. just.. er.. easy going, not categorised in any slot. This self-proclaimed ‘elite’ have actually spread the fear and not Trump, Farage or Marine le Pen et al. Then there’s the hippy retreads, who blindly follow this imaginary peace and love, non-nationalistic, appeasement and preferential sexual habits and ‘that’s so cool’ to everyone everywhere, even Charles Manson and ISIS. This babble contribute less than zero to society. Actually, a lot of them useless professors in universities or manning the turrets at the London School of Economics, when they are not dipping caviar at Davos along with massive amounts of Viagra for the rich in the form of oysters and the like slithering down throats. One suspects even tiger’s testicles are also on the buffet to please the Asian appetite in their exclusive hotel rooms. Hypocrisy beyond as Trump gets the heat for just looking. Without alcohol, the most decadent thing Trump ‘might’ have partaken in is the odd ménage à trois. That’s doubtful too, for his vanity (although not vane) would probably not allow. Except a few parrot flavoured ostensibly male morons who joined the misconceived Star Wars bar of agenda generated female miscreants marching as to war, men in their billions all over the world ogled in ecstasy at the ravishing, undisputable beauty and composure of Melania at the inauguration, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. Move over and make room darling Kate, as aura pure and magnificently natural as you are, for if Melania comes up.. um..er.. trumps as a lot expect her to, she will be the biggest trump card Trump could have ever wildly imagined. Still, unable to match the glamour inadvertently playing out on stage, old school degenerate politicians were seething as were the Che Guevara T-shirt clad news editors. Vindictive main stream media cameras with wide angles lens removed, desperately panned to seek out empty space to create another pathetic deceitful story. Hopeful that the streets will create mayhem, news teams mingled among this frightful bunch of so many unsightly specimens with their xylophone pierced extremities rattling as they chanted ridicule. Judging by the unkempt size of them, they hadn’t taken a step in years so the walk was doing them good. February 2017 125

tarotscope

AQUARIUS January 22 – February 20 As has often been said before, the course of love is never a steady one and we can each of us expect to encounter our fair share of lows along the way, no matter how close we might be to someone. It is therefore going to be difficult for you to accept the magnitude of a partner’s revelation initially and there will be a few tears of hurt before your emotions harden and the lion within you charges to the fore. After that, with a much harder resolve, you will set out to put the situation right. Just make sure you don’t take the matter too far, for your sake as much as anyone else’s. Card of the Month — The Fool For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

PISCES February 21 – March 20 As you settle into the new year, your head will be filled with thoughts of travel, and itchy feet will soon see you answering the call of the travel agent. Before long you will surrender to spontaneity and jet-set away. And it will be while you are out of the country that you encounter a red-haired woman who will offer you the chance to make a lot of money on a speculative venture. No matter how convincing (or alluring gentlemen!) you should be wary of being taken in by her argument. You have a lot to lose by accepting her advice so be warned: it will only end in tears. Card of the Month — The Ace of Wands

ARIES March 21 – April 20

TAURUS April 21 – May 20 If some of you have been feeling a little down or dissatisfied as the new year progresses, then perhaps now is the time to think about flinging off those tired restraints that are holding you back and aiming high in pursuit of your ambitions. The chance to revolutionise your life is just around the corner but, if you fail to follow your instincts, it could be a long time before the opportunity comes around again. If a half-hearted relationship is the main reason for your hesitation, then you need to weigh up matters carefully and look at which decision stands to lose you the most. Card of the Month — Strength GEMINI May 21 – June 20 Just when you thought things were going to be financially strained, a stroke of good fortune will turn everything around and save you from a rather embarrassing situation. This doesn’t mean you can afford to go wild; simply that you will be able to carry on without short-term worry. If ever there was a time to believe in Lady Luck then it will have to be now. Family matters never seem far away from your concerns and at the start of February you could find yourself facing up to a tricky visit in more ways than one when a relative turns up on your doorstep with an unwanted companion in tow! Card of the Month — The Lovers CANCER June 21 – July 20 This February could see you suffering a major headache because of a young man who seems intent on disrupting your life, even if his actions are unintentional. You may have the foresight to prevent any of this happening since you will already be very familiar with the person concerned and his sometimes unorthodox behaviour. A few well-placed words should sort the matter out but don’t think you’ll escape unscathed if you just sit back and do nothing. Health wise, an operation some months back may not have succeeded in clearing up the problem so another visit to the doctor could soon be on the cards. Card of the Month — The Seven of Swords LEO July 21 – August 21 The dust has only just settled on a family dispute when you could find yourself having to deal with another major headache in the form of an invoice that will take a big bite out of your savings. Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be any way past it and you had better make sure you don’t overcommit for the future as this will leave you a little light on funds until the end of March. On the relationship front, you may be surprised to receive an anonymous card through the post but if you think about it carefully you may be able to guess the sender’s identity. Card of the Month — The High Priestess

February is set to be a month of significant changes for you as you take control of your life and set events in motion that will effectively alter your working environment for a long time to come. After many months of dissatisfaction with your career, you will turn the corner and move into a much more positive stretch of development that will give you a genuine shot at success. How you deal with this opportunity will go a long way towards determining just what you achieve. Allow complacency to creep in at any time and you could end up with little to celebrate. Destiny is in your hands.

You have been extending yourself financially over the last few months to alarming degrees but the time has now come for you to start exercising a little more restraint and accept that not everything in life can be achieved immediately. Whilst you may want your own way, you have to learn that you can’t always get it. Much to your chagrin you will have to accept the situation and move on. A valuable lesson will be learned if you can bear to listen. Fail to do so and the outcome could set you back immeasurably. Succeed and you will have much to look forward to.

Card of the Month — The Five of Swords

Card of the Month — The Five of Coins

126 February 2017

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

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advertisers index LIBRA September 22 – October 21 The next few weeks will present you with some difficult choices – many of which will have a lasting effect on your life – so make sure you think carefully about what you really want before committing to anything or anyone. You may have started off 2017 feeling pressured by your situation and the demands of those closest to you so, if the truth be told, the best thing you can do right now to sort your head out is to take a break from it all. Try and find a nice quiet spot where you can be alone to assess the present and where you would like the future to take you. Card of the Month — The Knight of Swords

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21 February will find many of you in a philosophical frame of mind as you are forced to come to terms with the suffering of someone very close to you. It’s going to require a great deal of discipline and determination on your part to make some headway with the person concerned. Unless you are completely focused upon what you have to do, you will find any improvements to a difficult situation unlikely. More than anything you have to accept your limitations and not be too proud to take on board someone else’s opinion or help. Some things in life are just too difficult to overcome alone. Card of the Month — The Ace of Swords

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 Although your thoughts may be occupied by the romance of Valentine’s Day, there are other concerns that you need to address, not least of all your attitude towards a current partner. You will be accused of being disrespectful and uncaring in your approach to them and, if you assess the accusations levelled at you, you may have to admit that they carry some truth. Your hot-headed nature can often get the better of you and if there’s something to be learned here it is perhaps restraint. If you don’t accept and correct the situation soon, you could find yourself very much alone come February 14th. Card of the Month — The King of Cups

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 You have suffered a few knock-backs to your confidence recently and, whilst you may not be relishing the new areas of responsibility that you are about to face, in the long term this will aid your return to a level of strength and stability. Don’t look upon what lies ahead with trepidation or concern but instead embrace the challenges as opportunities. You have a natural and untapped talent which needs a stimulating environment to bring it to the fore and this is your chance to thrive. By the time Easter comes along you won’t recognise yourself, so take a deep breath and dive in – the moment is at hand. Card of the Month — The King of Pentacles

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Justin Timberlake

Jennifer Aniston

Cristiano Ronaldo

FAMOUS AQUARIUS THIS MONTH

Financial Institutions Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB) . . . . . . IBC

Home & Furnishing

Behbehani Brothers (Audi) . . . . . . . . 17 EK. Kanoo (Motor City:Volvo) . . . . . . . 19 EK. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3

JAC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Hotels & Serviced Residences

Others Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . 13

Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Bahrain Schools Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 37

Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (Gulf

Fraser Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Industry Fair) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Frsan Palace Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (Gulf

Golden Tulip Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Interiors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

House of Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Ramee Palace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy

The Diplomat Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

The Domain Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Kumar’s Group (K Home & Kitchen) . 59 Nomination Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Jewellery & Watches

Qatar Airways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Ambassador Stores (Sieko:Alba) . . . 27

Saar Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . 8

Seven Leisure (Coral Bay) . . . . . . . . . 25

Asia Jewellers (Varsace) . . . . . . . . . . . 6

The National Initiative for Agricultural

Sharif Group (Roberto Cavalli) . . . . . . 93

Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Medical & Dental Services

Restaurants & Cafés

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 31

Casa Mexicana Restaurant . . . . . . . 103

Asia De Cuba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Dr. Rim Bogari Dental Center . . . . . . . 63

The Foundry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Middle East Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge 101

Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

WOK Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Motoring

Telecommunications

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . 4,5

Viva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets

All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from Red House Marketing, 17 813-777 or email: bystander@redhousemarketing.com. February 2017 127

winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from A La Mode. To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions. Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Bahrain This Month received 96 entries last month, 91 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

Where is the Autumn Fair being held? ______________________________________________

Winner : Kent Daulayan Second Place : Juanita Fernandes Third Place : Lourdes Rodrigues

Where is the Walk for Cancer being held? ______________________________________________ Which two iconic acts will be the subject of a tribute at JJ’s? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

1. Sumana Malakar 2. Two Hundred Years of Bahrain British Relations 3. HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister 4. Kanoo Daily Rental 5. Trevor Fletcher 6. February 23-26 7. Imari Lounge, The Domain Hotel and Spa 8. Al Abraaj Restaurants Group, YaSalam 9. Gulf Hotels Group 10. 2015

Which Kenyan mix DJ is celebrating Bob Marley’s birthday? ______________________________________________ Where exactly is the Seef branch of House of Travel located? ______________________________________________ Who is the distributor for INFINITI in Bahrain? ______________________________________________ Which Toyota model did Ebrahim K. Kanoo recently launch? ______________________________________________

Name:

Ad Seek:

1. Mukta A2 Cinemas 2. CrediMax

3. Vie Lifestyle Lab/The Domain Hotel & Spa

4. Turkish Festival/Mercure Grand Hotel Seef

Address:

What is the promotion for the month of February at Golden Tulip? ______________________________________________

Telephone: Email:

Name any one dessert BTM tried at The Foundry. ______________________________________________

CPR: Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random. Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Which hotel is hosting the Mei Yue Market promotion?

AD Seek

This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of Bahrain This Month. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

1. 128 February 2017

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