Bahrain This Month - January 2014

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

January 2014 ~ Vol. 18 ~ Issue 1 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Great British Week January 17-22

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Featured This Month:

Back Seat Chat | Bahrain Airshow | 2014 Car Models

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

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Issue 197

Contents January 2014 Cover Story:

30 A Musical Treat Watch the award-winning singer, Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, along with his full band, performs Bollywood hits and

23

traditional qawwali songs.

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

30

56

23 Reach for the Skies: The Bahrain International Airshow 34 Celebrating Talents: Al Aali Art Fest is back for a third year 36 Life of an Artist: Sh Rashid Al Khalifa discusses the local art scene 40 Take a Walk: Raise money for our four-legged friends 42 Curioser and Curioser: It’s happening at the Bahrain Science Centre 44 Sport of Kings: Equestrian skills are on show this month 23-50 Calendars: Events during January

Spotlight:

56 Out on Patrol Commodore Keith Blount speaks to Bahrain This Month

36

about The British Royal Navy and its presence in Bahrain.

64

58 Back Seat Chat Martin Whittaker and George Middleton drive around Amwaj Islands in the new Range Rover L405 while they chat about the scope of sports events in the Kingdom.

Business:

58

129 Bystander We celebrated the National Days of Japan and Thailand, and joined the Indian Embassy for its groundbreaking ceremony. The host of tree lighting events and Christmas parties kept us in the festive spirit all month long and we had a lot of fun at the finales of JJ’s Karaoke Idol and Cucina Italiana’s MasterChef. There was also a car launch for Lincoln and a party at Ibrida.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

61 Training the Trainer A leader in interactive trainer training, Bob Pike holds a conference that is designed around the theme ‘New Learning Strategies for the Workplace’.

64 Decades of Success Bahrain This Month talks to Rahim Omar, the new general manager at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain, about the hotel’s revamp plans and its 45th anniversary.

January 2014 3

Issue 197

Contents January 2014 Great British Week:

26 Britain in Bahrain

26

From hopping on the iconic double-decker bus and trying out the traditional fish and chips, this week promises to be one packed with fun around the Kingdom.

26 Royal Philharmonic Orchestra: Be spellbound at the National Theatre 28 Lulu Hypermarket: A spotlight on British brands 62 Engineering and innovation conference: British expertise on show 78 Musical inspiration: Modern British pop stars

Downtime:

78

90

73 Make a Knight of it: Another year of waiting for ‘Sir Becks’ 74 Gadgets: Starting the year right 77 Showcase: Home Electronics gadgets 78 Music: The best of on the current British music scene 80 Computer Games: Along for the ride 81 Websites: Laugh it off 82 Apps: How to start-up a business 83 Movies: British humour and horror

Motoring:

85 An Emotional Appeal: The Lexus RC Coupé 86 Test Drive: Mercedes AMG range 88 Feature: The 2013 Dubai International Motor Show 90 Feature: A review of 2014 car models 93 Showcase: Cadillac SRX

Dining:

125

131

115 Mexican flavours: Chef Martinez returns to Casa Mexicana 117 Showcase: Rayes @ Coral Bay 131 Happenings: Festive fare round-up

After Dark:

125 Five Years of Partying: Dublin Club celebrates its anniversary 150 Happenings: Catch the action around town after dark 152 Feature: New Year’s Eve parties

Showcase: 34

42

44

141 142 143 144

www.bahrainthismonth.com

101 Insurance and Savings: Spending your income wisely 129 What’s New: Watch your game 130 Marketplace: Latest products and services

WIN WIN Tarotscope AD Index Last word

Print-to-digital articles, with QR codes:

Jump from the magazine to the digital world from these pages: 30 Video message for Bahrain from Rahat Fateh Ali Khan 58 Back Seat Chat, in the Range Rover L405 88 Dubai International Motor Show review @ MotoringGCC.com 142 Annual Tarotscope forecast from Raphael

January 2014 5

The team

Bahrain This Month January 2014

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

Dear Readers,

Events Editor Maryam Toorani

Welcome to a new year! I have to say that I am looking forward to 2014, for a host of reasons — both personal and professional. My youngest daughter completes her last year at school in the summer, before embarking on the next chapter in her life.

In April we will be celebrating the 200th edition of Bahrain This Month. Much of my time during the first quarter of the year will be spent on planning an event to match the occasion. It only seems like yesterday, rather than 1997, when we were putting together our plans for the magazine.

Over the past year we have been investing in an expansion of our digital publishing presence and I am excited by the opportunities that this dimension will add to our business. In this issue, the first of these initiatives have come to fruition.

A new section in the magazine, Back Seat Chat — in conjunction with Jaguar Land Rover and their distributor in the Kingdom, Euro Motors — delivers our first print-to-digital service. Alongside this, we are launching a brand-new website as well — MotoringGCC.com.

Developed by Strategic Outsourcing Solutions, a division of Red House Marketing, the technology used by this site lays the platform for a transformation of our online activities in the months ahead.

The first month of the year starts with a high as we preview the biannual Bahrain International Airshow. Running in parallel to this event is the Great British Week, from January 17-22. Packed full of activities to showcase Britain’s presence in the Kingdom, the week will highlight British engineering, innovation and culture.

Celebrating their own milestone, the Bahrain Arts Society turns 40. To record this occasion we speak to a patron of the arts in the Kingdom, Sh. Rashid Al Khalifa, as he reflects on the arts scene and outlines his ideas for the future.

The annual Al Aali Arts Fest also takes place this month, at the Al Aali Shopping Complex.

The British theme continues as we interview the UK Navy’s top sailor based in the Kingdom, Commodore Keith Blount; additionally, our Downtime pages have a British flavour to them this month. The Motoring section includes our annual review of 2014 car models and there is a report on insurance and savings schemes as well.

So, whatever you do this month, take time to enjoy the great way of life that the Kingdom has to offer.

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

Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING (JERSEY) LTD. P.O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place St., Helier Jersey JE48JJ, Channel Islands, U.K.

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

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

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Cover

Cover Picture: Great British Week runs from January 17-22.

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

January 2014 ~ Vol. 18 ~ Issue 1

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

btm200

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Great British Week January 17-22

Join us on Facebook

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide Rahat Fateh Ali Khan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Featured This Month:

Back Seat Chat | Bahrain Airshow | 2014 Car Models

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Only 3 issues to go.

April 2014

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

If you are wondering what this image to the left is, or the one on the front cover, it’s a QR code.

To find out how to use these, read page 140.

www.facebook.com/bahrainthismonth January 2014 7

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Thank You Bahrain Fun Day Under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Supreme Council for Youth and Sport chairman and Bahrain Olympic Committee president, the Bahrain Federation of Expatriate Associations (BFEA) organised 'Thank You, Bahrain', a fun day out for the entire family, at the National Stadium car park in Riffa

His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa

Nakhle, Salwa, Saeed & Camille

Ria, Varun, Willem & Nabeel

Blessy, Agnes, Meena, Janet & Edward

His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa & Betsy B Mathieson, President of the Organising Committee

Safa & Marwa

Aya, Josephine, Levi, Claudia, Ivy, Patric, Pebby, Ivy, Aimee & Dr Fredie

Patrick, Vaugh, Laura, Esther & Madeline

Sally, Eman& Yasmeen

Kate & Rawia

Ruth, Sarah & Melissa

Pakistani pop star Humaira Arshad performing at the event

A part of the audience

8 January 2014

Kelly, Khalid Al Zayani & Alison

Ahmed

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Japanese Emperor's Birthday Celebration HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador & his wife Tomoko Sumi hosted a reception to celebrate the Japanese Emperor's birthday last month. The event which was attended by HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, advisor to His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, Industry & Commer Minister, HE Abdulla Abdullatif, Under Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, diplomats & VIP guests was held at the Al Ghazal Ballroom, Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa

Tomoko & HE Shigeki Sumi

Imogen & Kiyoshi

HE Abdulla Abdullatif, HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa & HE Shigeki Sumi at the cake cutting

Henny, Abdulhussain, Nasreen Dawani, Nasser & Reem Alarayedh & Wajd Al Madani

Ali & Barbara Khonji with Judith & Faisal Jawad

Abdulrahman Jawahery, Melissa & Scott McGowen

Jeff Trent, Robert Buckley, Sara Buckley & Brett Fullerton

10 January 2014

Noriko, Yukiko, William, Chad & Toshi

Kaoru & Mark

Hussain Tadayon & Humbert Buemi

HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho'ala, HE Dr Hassan Fakhro & HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa

Sadiq Dawani & Jalil Al Ansari

Dr Dhafer & Mazen Al Umran

Bonnie, Kristy, Jane & Kelly

Feyza, Paween & Deniz

William & Kuniko Barnett

Aseel & Hameed

Abdulla Asheer & Khalifa Rumaihi

Abdul Jabbar & Yoshio Minagi

Anoop & Hishang Kewalram

Colonel West

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Thai King's Birthday Celebration HE Vichai Virasirikul, Thai Ambassador and the Royal Thai Embassy hosted a reception to mark the birthday anniversary of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand and the National Day of the country. His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa deputised his adviser HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa to attend the reception, along with HE Khalifa Al Dhahrani, Speaker of the Council of Representatives, diplomats & VIPs which was held at the Crowne Plaza's Bahrain Conference Centre

HE Ahmed Shahizan, Malaysian Ambassador, HE Vichai Virasirikul, HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, HE Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador & Ahmed Haji Jumat

HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa & HE Vichai Varasirikul at the cake cutting ceremony with diplomats

Laura, Chris, Elodie, Benya & Tina

Cindy, Kat, Neena & Santana

Ann Beauty Salon staff

Abdulla Juma, Ahmed Jawahery & Abdul Hussain Dawani

12 January 2014

HE Khalifa Al Dhahrani & HE Chilman Arisman, Indonesian Ambassador

HE Vichai Virasirikul, Kanyarat & Witchu

Fareeda & Shukri

Sarvanan & Pascal

Cherry

Thongpol, Khwanta & Wassana

Nasser & Sameera

Sarah & Wararoj

Marcia, Danielle, HE Vichai Virasirikul & Jayce

Suhair Bokhammas, HE Vichai Virasirikul & Amal Yousif

Kob, Peace, Na & Sutheemon

Shameer & Abdul Jabbar

Piyanan & Paween

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Awali Caledonian Society St Andrews Ball The Awali Caledonian Society held its annual St Andrews Ball for members and guests at the Bapco Club in Awali last month. The event was attended by HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, society members & guests

Ewan, Nikki, Michelle & Rodney

Andy & Jan McAlpine & Gordan Simmonds

Paul, Nancy, Charles, Bridget Lindsay, Andy, Jan, HE Iain Lindsay, Donald & Alistair

Adel & Eamon

Eamon, Ron, Bridget & Julia

Nora, Debbi, Jenny & Tracey

14 January 2014

Rose & George

Sheila, David & Ashley

Jack, Travis, Jan & Stuart

Sara

Anthony & Megan

Colin, Alison, Pat, Robb & Ruth

Manon, Olivier, Monique & Sophie

Monika & Allie

HE Iain Lindsay

Garfield & Jack

Charles & Monika

Charlotte & David

George, Barbara & Paul

Jean-Pierre & Roselyne

Patrick

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ECC Charity Dinner & Dance The Ecumenical Conference of Charity's (ECC) annual dinner and dance party featured an auction, raffle draw and live entertainment by local band Highway Haze and DJ Ed. The event was held at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa with funds raised, going towards repatriation and medical aid for low-income workers, the ECC's 'Sponsor a Child' programme, and the Bahrain community project, which supports orphans and needy families. Funds raised will also be used to pay for chemotherapy treatments, sponsoring an underprivileged child's school fees and visiting expatriate workers in hospital

Bahnam, Renuka, Andreas, Ron, Liliane, Shandra, Isa, Zeenat, Iro, Joseph & Lynne

ECC volunteers

Nathan, Jason, Natasha, Fozia & Tarryn

Jo, Marietta & Lynne

Aluito & Jack

Zenobia & Ghazi

Anu, Kishore & Anjana

Andreas, Jenny & Michael

Arun & Sophie

Rev Chris

Carie, Aline & Martin

David, Dale, Willow & Rose

16 January 2014

Aldred, Maram & Ahmed

Sam, Yanni & Lisa

Alex, Abigail & Claude

Teresa, Marguerite & Gerry

Irwin, Sharon & Lynne

Ron & Iro

John & Mandy

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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2nd Social Media Masters Forum 2013 Under the patronage of HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Telecommunications Affairs, the Social Media Club organised the 2nd Social Media Masters Forum 2013 at the Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain. The two-day forum brought together six international social media experts from the US, UK and Netherlands to discuss the latest industry trends

Mohammed Zainalabedin, HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa & Ali Sabkar

Golden Ashby

Mandana & Amel

Mohammed Zainalabedin, HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa & Ali Sabkar with speakers & officials

Ali Sabkar & HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

Boye Balagun & HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

Abbas Alidina & HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

Ernesto Verdugo & HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

Moe & Ghazi

George Middleton & Mohammed Zainalabedin

Amel, Nayla & Afrah

Taimour & Mohammed

Dr Clare & Megan

Faker & Simi

18 January 2014

Nayla, Hessa & Mona

Latifa & Sara

Partick Schwerdfeger & HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

Moyez Kassam

Jane

Khalid & Prem

Zainab & Fatima

Laila

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bystanderthismonth

Ibrida Here We Go Party Ibrida, one of the newest night clubs in Bahrain hosted its first ever full-on social nightlife event last month. The Here We Go party was held at Ibrida, in the Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa, Seef. The event featured resident band 'Tune In' along with DJ Johnny Bailo

Mr & Mrs Raj Shetty

Lucy, Ric, Shantharam, Nicolas & Natasha

Elie, Zuhair, Josef & Dony

Mr & Mrs Raj Shetty with Shantharam Shetty

Salvatore & Rajan

Yajur, Amy, Zilia & Puja

Rajesh, Hareesh, Sandeep, Prasanna & Rajneesh

Makram & Muna

20 January 2014

Kere & Vlad

Liane, Aaron, Bless & David

Heinz & Nancy

Betsy & Lauren

DJ Johnny Bailo

Mo, Julia & Ron

Jo, Sayed & Yna

Marise, Charlie, Rowena, Omran, George, Laurice & Lynn

Lucy, Nancy & Natasha

Michelle & Marina

Mwai, Sara & Isaac

Dalia & George

Laura & Dani

Sam & Steve

Rachel & Nicole

Vanessa & Fernanda

www.bahrainthismonth.com

wiTh The new 2014

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Sacred Heart Church Gala Dinner Sacred Heart Church organised a dinner as part of a year-long celebration to mark the 75th anniversary of the first Catholic church in the Gulf. The dinner held at the the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa was attended by HE Archbishop Petar Antun Rajic, Apostolic Nuncio for the Gulf countries, HE Bishop Camillo Ballin, Apostolic Vicar for Northern Arabia, Fr Ulderico Camus, Sacred Heart Church Parish Priest, diplomats, priests, nuns and long-running parishioners

Fr Ulderico Camus, HE Bishop Camillo Ballin & HE Archbishop Petar Antun Rajic

Tomoko & HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador with HE Archbishop Petar Rajic

Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, Bridget Lindsay, HE Archbishop Petar Rajic & HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador

Kostantinos Pallikaropoulos, Greek Honorary Consul, Fr Ulderico, HE Bishop Camillo Ballin & Bjarne Bidsted, Danish Consular Agent

HE Archbishop Petar Rajic, Ibrahim Assaf, Lebanese Charge d'Affaires & Mrs Assaf

Wendy & Jaap W. Vaandrager Netherlands' Honorary Consul with HE Archbishop Petar Rajic

Richard, Venus, Kharisma & Jacklyn

Gina, Dr Melo, Dannely, Alma & Herman

Emannuel, Michelle, Jayvee, Christopher, Shierly & JB

22 January 2014

HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qadir, Palestinian Ambassador, HE Bishop Camillo Ballin & Rabab Al Afifi

Florine, Ashalatha & Panos

HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador

Shantharam Shetty & Ronnie Middleton

Cynthia, Eric, Greg & Anne

Mathew, Vinod & Sabu

Christine

Marietta Dias

Philomena & Jacintha

Myron, Maryann & Trevor

Abraham & Rose

Hadeer & Mazin

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? January 16-18 | Event? Bahrain International Airshow | Venue? Sakhir Airbase

Reaching for the Skies Bringing together some of the world’s most powerful air fleets in a spectacular display across the Kingdom’s skies, this event returns with a much larger third edition.

The Kingdom will witness some of the world’s most prominent flying fleets display an airborne spectacle at the third Bahrain International Airshow this month. Scheduled for January 16 to 18 at Sakhir Airbase, the event is a prime attraction in the country’s happenings’ calendar.

Having grown consistently in stature over the years, the show promises a five-hour aerobatic display along with a wealth of on-ground attractions for your family to enjoy. Confirmed display teams include the Hawks from Saudi Arabia, the UAE’s Al Fursan, the Russian Knights and the Breitling Wingwalkers.

The historic Spitfire fighter aircraft will make a special appearance. There will also be solo aerobatics by Mark Jefferies, the Red Devils parachute display team and the SWIP Twister with an amazing night-time display.

In addition to the aerial stunts, watch out for high-profile industry participants, such as Airbus, Boeing and Bombardier, Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky Aircraft. Other international companies participating include Thales Group, France’s Morpho (Safron), Lufthansa Technic from Germany, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation and Tawazun Holding, an Abu Dhabi-based strategic investment holding company focused on defence and specialised manufacturing.

Organised by the Transportation Ministry in association with the Civil Aviation Affairs Authority and Farnborough International Limited, the fair is expected to attract over 20,000 trade visitors from over 25 countries. Royal Bahrain Air Force, the Economic Development Board, Alba, Batelco, Also this month

Bapco, Bahrain Airport Company and Gulf Air are some of the institutions that will participate in the event. Courtesy Qatar Airways, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner will make its first visit to the Kingdom.

“We are proud of the level of support being shown by Bahraini organisations for the airshow,” said transportation minister Kamal Ahmed. “This demonstrates how the country continues to diversify and grow not only in the aviation sector but across the board.”

Expect Good Things From Yourself Having healthy expectations for yourself is important to both your physical and mental health.

Cut your stress

On-ground attractions The public showground area offers a wide variety of attractions, entertainment and activities for both adults and children. One can get a taste of authentic Bahraini culture and lifestyle at the Heritage Village, co-organised by the Ministry of Social Development. This features arts and crafts from the region, music recitals and other performances.

Those who want to uncover the mysteries of outer space can head to the Space Zone set up in association with the National Space Centre, Leicester, England. It includes a planetarium featuring a 360 degree full dome cinema experience showcasing informative inter-stellar movies. Visitors can participate in many experiments and workshops organised specially for kids.

No day out with the family can be complete without some retail therapy. So pick up some souvenirs, books and perfumes at the Retail Village. Tickets cost BD7 per adult and BD3 for children. They are available at Batelco outlets across the Kingdom.

Taking a step back and pausing can help you put everything into perspective so you can work out where to go next. Each week, do something nice for yourself, whether it's something active like playing sport, or something relaxing like a massage. Have lunch away from your desk at least 3 times a week - and go for a wander around the block every morning and afternoon for a quick recharge.

Be Active Try to inject each day with more activity (adults should aim for 30 minutes daily).

Control Your Portions Start downsizing your dishes.

Studies show using smaller plates and bowls promote weight loss because they help to curb overeating.

E Visit www.bahraininternationalairshow.com.

34 x Arts & Culture - 40 x Clubs & Societies - 42 x Teens & Kids - 44 x Sports & Recreation

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2014 23

happeningsthismonth When? Until January 20 Event? Artefact exhibition Venue? Bahrain Fort Museum The event showcases Bahrain’s archaeological findings over the years.

E Call 17 298-718.

When? January 2-4 Event? Shopping festival Venue? Bahrain Mall Get fantastic bargains in the year’s first shopping extravaganza.

E Call 39 332-451.

When? January 10 Event? Musical concert Venue? BIECC A celebrated Sufi singer enthrals music lovers this month.

E Call 33 283-939.

When? January 16-18 Event? Bahrain International Airshow Venue? Sakhir Airbase Watch some of world’s best aircrafts perform thrilling stunts.

E Visit www. bahraininternationalairshow.com.

When? January 21 Event? Seminar Venue? InterContinental Regency Bahrain Learn the nuances of research writing and publishing at this workshop.

E Call 35 142-126.

When? January 21-29 Event? Autumn Fair Venue? BIECC Check out a variety of new products before they hit the market.

E Call 17 550-033.

When? January 26 Event? Weekend market Venue? Amwaj Marina Enjoy the lovely weather by the sea with good food, music and shopping.

E Email events@amwaj.bh.

When? January 29-31 Event? Comedy show Venue? Various locations Catch three international standup acts for a laugh riot.

E Call 36 663-509.

When? January 30-February 2 Event? Workshop Venue? TBA Say One Care Project helps you discover your inner self.

E Call 33 235-360.

24 January 2014

A Piece of History In an effort to showcase the rich history of the mystical land of Dilmun, the Ministry of Culture has organised an exhibit at the Bahrain National Museum to commemorate its 25th anniversary. The display illustrates the rich archaeological heritage of the Kingdom and its pioneering cultural role in the region. The construction and development of this outstanding project is featured through a selection of rare photographs and architectural drawings. The event runs until January 20.

The landmark building is one of the finest museums of its kind in the world. The numerous archaeological excavations around the island resulted in a significant increase in the number of collections, and hence were moved to a much larger facility in Muharraq.

The site was developed according to a UNESCO museum consultant’s proposal and the very innovative design of the Bahrain National Museum was created by Cowiconsult in collaboration with architects Krohn and Hartvig Rasmussen of Denmark. What started as a small temporary exhibition in Muharraq has developed into a unique cultural institution.

E Call 17 298-718.

New Year snips This month sure promises a great variety of bargains. Kick start your New Year shopping spree with the Bahrain Mall Shopping Festival, from January 2-4. Over 30 small-to-medium-sized businesses are expected to showcase their merchandise at the event. On display is a wide range of products from home décor, apparel, kitchenware, gifts, local and international crafts and a lot more.

There are food stalls offering some tantalising fare along with many other fun filled activities for both kids and adults. For the first time, the festival has an Arabic calligraphy corner showcasing this delicate art and even offering quick lessons to those who are eager to try.

The event runs from 10 am to 11 pm on all three days.

E Call 39 332-451.

Discovering yourself Take a moment from your hectic life and engage in this workshop that aims to help you discover your inner self. A social project, Say One Care runs this event from January 31 to February 2.

On Friday and Saturday the session is from 8am- 8pm and on Sunday from 6pm-10pm. The fee is BD15 for three days for those employed and BD10 for students. Lunch and snacks are included. E Call 33 235-360.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Scan for watch details

Moda Mall: 17534444 Al-Aali Mall: 17581444 Seef Mall: 17587888 Ritz- Carlton Hotel: 17580123 City Centre: 17179009 www.asiajewellers.com

happeningsthismonth When? January 15-22 | Event? The Great British Week | Venue? Various locations

The Best of British

A week-long celebration of all things British comes to town this month; everything from high-end technology seminars to a fish and chips supper!

Quoting Frank Sinatra, British Ambassador Iain Lindsay said that 2013 had been, “a very good year” for the UK-Bahrain bilateral relationship. And this very sentiment is at the centre of the Great British Week (GBW) being celebrated in the Kingdom from January 15-22. Here is the roster of events to look forward to during the week.

Knowledge event Sponsored by the Universities of Brunel and Ahlia in conjunction with the British Council, the public event highlights the longstanding relationship between the two countries with regards to education, particularly in the areas of research and development. It’s a great opportunity presented to young British and Bahraini postgraduate students, giving them an insight on the avenues for further education and training.

Engineering and technology conference Flying the flag for the best of Britain’s engineering, the Advanced Engineering and Innovation Conference will showcase the country’s leading role in the automotive and aerospace industries. For further details see page 62.

Rolls-Royce gala dinner Hosted by Euro Motors at The Ritz Carlton-Bahrain Hotel & Spa, the event allows Brits to celebrate a brand that has exuded excellence, class and world-leading status for over 100 years.

This part-public event takes place on January 15.

The Big Red Bus The iconic double-decker bus from London will make the rounds in the Kingdom throughout the week. Starting at the most unusual of locations for a press conference, the bus will continue its journey around the Kingdom stopping at various locations including schools and shopping malls. The latest addition in the London Routemaster fleet, Borisbus as it is often called, has the old design of an open hop-on hopoff rear end and meets the requirements for modern buses to be fully accessible.

26 January 2014

British clubs and societies Bahrain’s British clubs and societies take part in the GBW by organising events. Attend a dinner at The British Club with guest speaker John Hartson on January 16. A celebrated Welsh footballer and a testicular cancer survivor, he shares his inspiring story at this black tie gala.

The Dilmun Club will organise a day of family activities and entertainment, the date for which will soon be announced.

Cocktail reception Unwind after a long day at the air show or just relax at this cocktail party hosted at the InterContinental Regency Hotel. The

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Great Songs of Praise St Christopher’s Cathedral celebrates the Great British Week with a Songs of Praise service on January 19. This public event is positioned in the middle of the week, offering a place to unwind, relax and soak up the entrancing atmosphere with family, friends and colleagues.

Great British Week When? January 15 Event? Knowledge event Venue? InterContinental Regency Hotel Education opportunities in the UK. E Call 17 266-166.

When? January 15 Event? Rolls Royce gala dinner Venue? The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa Organised by the Euro Motors.

E Call 17 580-000.

When? January 15-22 Event? The Big Red Bus Venue? Various locations Catch the iconic London bus going around in the Kingdom.

E Visit www.yallabahrain.com.

When? January 16 Event? Musical concert Venue? National Theatre Celebrated orchestra performs classical and contemporary tunes.

E Call 17 298-777.

When? January 16 Event? Black tie dinner Venue? The British Club Welsh footballer John Hartson shares his football stories.

E Call 17 728-245.

When? January 17 Event? Cocktail reception Venue? InterContinental Regency Bahrain Unwind after a long day with some authentic English drinks.

E Call 17 266-166.

When? January 18 Event? Advanced Engineering and Innovation conference Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Showcase of the best in British innovation and engineering.

E Email info@yallabahrain.com.

When? January 18 Event? British brunch Venue? Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Get a taste of real English breakfast at this five-star venue.

E Call 17 460-000.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra The Kingdom gets a taste of some classical pop symphonies, courtesy of this celebrated group. Having performed in prestigious concert halls and venues in the UK and around the world, the orchestra is known for its versatile renditions comprising classical, light classical and popular music.

Their performances last year include four shows with Boston Ballet at the London Coliseum, an Elgar celebration concert in his home town of Malvern on the composer’s birthday, and live performances to the screening of two iconic films at the Royal Albert Hall — Singin’ in the Rain and Fantasia. They cast their spell on the Kingdom on January 16 at 9pm at the National Theatre.

Entrepreneurial skills workshop Supported by the British Council, this workshop runs throughout the GBW. The programme demonstrates what the British Council does best in educating and coaching young students and firsttime entrepreneurs before embarking on their professional journeys. These will run all day at the Innovation Centre.

Kids Science event This is an interactive session organised by the British Council in association with the Bahrain Science Centre. Curious minds can do a number of experiments in the lab and, who knows, may even teach a thing or two to the grown ups. This is organised on January 21 and goes on all day.

Blue Water Bio open day It’s not just a visit to a waste site but an opportunity to see what this organisation is doing to support and improve our environment. This is advanced technology at its best and shows that this work in Tubli makes a difference.

event acts as a breather in this action-packed week. The bar opens at 6pm, serving several British favourites along with some delicious fare. Mark your calendars for January 17.

The Great British brunch The Swiss are entering into the spirit of entente cordiale with a British brunch on January 18. Putting away the dainty cold cuts, perforated cheese and alpine muesli, this brunch makes way for the traditional English breakfast.

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain features its best selection of British dishes and desserts. It caters the most discerning palates with a weekend menu of casual yet stylish dining, live cooking stations and live entertainment. For the Scots amongst us, there may even be haggis! Enjoy this special spread served from 12.30-4pm.

Fish and Chips supper On January 20, all are invited to St Christopher’s Junior School for a hearty supper of fish and chips. With this iconic snack and The Beatles blaring from the speakers, it certainly doesn’t get more British than this. You can dress up as a famous Brit personality and even have your picture taken with a Mini on-site.

When? January 19 Event? Songs of praise Venue? St Christopher’s Cathedral Enjoy a fun day with your family and friends surrounded by music.

E Visit www.stchcathedral.org.

When? January 20 Event? Fish and chips Venue? St Christopher’s School Britain’s favourite snack!

E Call 17 598-604.

When? January 23 Event? Music festival Venue? St Christopher’s Cathedral Featuring The Beatles and One Direction, its a musical bonanza.

E Visit www.stchcathedral.org.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Great British music St Christopher’s Cathedral, a great supporter of community events, breaks into a celebration of retro and contemporary English music to mark the end of the Great British Week. With music from all ages — Purcell to the Beatles and Elgar to One Direction — the night guarantees entertainment for all!

January 2014 27

happeningsthismonth When? January 19 | Event? British Festival | Venue? Lulu Hypermarkets

LULU HYPERMARKET

More than Fish n’ Chips As the Kingdom celebrates everything that is British, this hypermarket holds a festival of its own to commemorate the Great Isles.

28 January 2014

The British Festival which will be held during the third week of the month at Lulu Hypermarket will be inaugurated at the Hidd branch, offering shoppers some of the best that Britain has to offer. Featuring everything from food to household items and even electronics, all four branches of the retail outlet will be packed with authentic products and brands from all over the UK. You can easily whip up a traditional British meal, such as the fish and chips or Sunday roast, by choosing from the classic British dishes offered in both the hot and cold food sections.

The stores will also put up stalls of British product samples in various aisles. Goods that hail from the UK will be highlighted with the British flag in their respective stands.

“Lulu Hypermarket has one of the widest ranges of British products. We have our own logistics and warehousing facility in Birmingham to service our entire hypermarket chain. We are delighted to showcase the best of Britain at this festival.

Besides special promotions on British products, there will be a focus on British food, cheeses and drinks. Home goods and electronics will also be showcased,” said regional director Juzer Rupawala.

Plans are abuzz to decorate all the Lulu Hypermarkets in Bahrain — Riffa, A’ali (Ramli Mall), Hidd and Dana Mall — with the Union Jack and replicas of famous British monuments.

Several local British establishments have been invited to take part in the event while local British community members can participate by displaying their products and services during the festival. Tourism to the UK will be promoted by different travel agencies throughout the week.

Lulu Hypermarket is the retail division of multidimensional and multinational EMKE group. The brand symbolises quality retailing and boasts wide market coverage with 106 stores across the Middle East. The Bahrain division has recently become the first hypermarket to win the ISO 22000:2005 accreditation. Audit research firm Deloitte has recently placed Lulu as the ninth fastest growing retail chain in the world.

Forbes ranked the hypermarket as the third most impacting company in the Arab region.

“Our brand promises to deliver a retail experience that is multi-dimensional and rooted in customers’ expectations and lifestyle. We host many festivals throughout the year that are themed on different countries, cuisines and products. These events are packed with special promotions. We also arrange for visits by celebrated chefs, artists and other experts,” Rupawala continues.

E Call 17 553-555.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happeningsthismonth When? January 10 | Event? Musical concert | Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan

Sufi for the Soul Known for performances that range from spellbinding qawwalies to soulful sufi renditions, this super star from the Subcontinent makes a musical stop over in the Kingdom.

To listen to a video message from Rahat, scan the QR code below on your mobile device.

30 January 2014

A multi-award winning sufi stalwart who has mesmerised million across the world comes to Bahrain with his special brand of music. A spectacular concert is expected as Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and his entourage of 20 musicians takes to the stage on January 10 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Even before the official announcement of the event took place, the social media was abuzz with great amount of excitement around the event. The organisers are expecting a great response with the show having already received an unparalleled amount of enquires and bookings.

“We have been dealing with 80 to 100 calls a day, which shows the singer’s popularity and the public’s love for him,” says Savio Sumanna of Epic Concepts, the organisers of the show. “We have received messages, calls and e-mails from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and European countries as well.”

The singer strikes a special chord with people from the Indian Subcontinent. A Pakistani by birth, he is the nephew of a sufi legend, the late Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Under his tutelage, Rahat developed his craft and started touring around the world when he was merely a boy. He rose to being his uncle’s main side singer in the 90s and performed with him on quite a few of his albums.

After his death in 1997, Rahat became the main singer in the group. He accompanied Nusrat on the famous soundtrack for the 1995 hit Dead Man Walking and more recently sang for the film Four Feathers. His first big international solo album, Rahat, was produced by Rick Rubin and was released in 2001.

He credits his musical finesse and range to his uncle who according Rahat, “created a bouquet of a variety of styles such as qawwali, thumri, ghazal and many more.”

Rahat today has a number of soulful melodies, many of them Bollywood chartbusters, under his belt. He is expected to perform many of these at the concert, as well as his inimitable collection of qawwalies, for which he is best known.

“Rahat is a world-class performer having sold out arenas all around the globe,” adds Savio. “This is his first performance in Bahrain and the artist is much excited about it. He’s been impressed with the kind of response we have received so far and is looking forward to meeting his fans.”

As his name Rahat, which is Urdu for relief, suggests, we hope this encounter with the legend with be a melodic respite for the Kingdom as well.

E Call 33 283-939 or email on savio@epicconcertsbh.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

RD

15 - 18 JAN 2014

ART | MUSIC | FASHION w w w.alaaliar tfest.com

For artist registration & more information Tel.: 17 007270, E-mail: info@alaaliartfest.com Contact : 17 007270 / 17 581000, E-mail: info@alaaliartfeat.com

happeningsthismonth When? January 4 | Event? Amwaj Marina Market | Venue? Amwaj Islands AMWAJ MARINA MARKET

Family Fun Discover — and devour — the best that our island has to offer as one of the biggest outdoor markets kicks off a new season.

The Amwaj Marina Market kicks off its fourth season this month on January 4, bringing shoppers great bargain buys and amazing family-friendly entertainment. This year, the event is bigger and better than ever with a host of new additions to its already exciting line-up of vendors.

Little ones are sure to love the new activities catered to them.

Making it a family affair for all, games and entertainment include a bouncy castle, mascots, face painting, henna designs as well as free popcorn and cotton candy for all visitors.

For those looking to shop until you drop, the stalls feature accessories, home furnishings and carpets. The retail segment also includes Bahraini designers, who have been making a buzz on Instagram with their locally-made products. Food lovers needn’t fret as they can enjoy an assortment of baked goods like cupcakes and a delicious shawarma and grills stand. Al Ghalia Farms will once again offer their much-loved fresh and organic produce for health fanatics and cooking enthusiasts to enjoy.

And while you shop, why not stop and enjoy performances by local entertainers? Monkeynastix and a kiddy gym will be available with several sessions for youngsters being held throughout the day.

The markets, open from 10am until 5pm, are scheduled to be held throughout winter on the first Saturday of each month. So if you have some innovative ideas to share with the Kingdom, this is your chance. Stalls are still open for registration and are rented out for a competitive price. E Email events@amwaj.bh.

bystanderthismonth

bnl Walkathon More than 300 people took part in a walkathon to promote awareness on diabetes prevention at Dohat Arad. The event, which was organised by the Bahrain National Life Assurance (bnl) in collaboration with the Bahrain Diabetes Society also aimed to highlight the importance of exercise. Bahrain Diabetes Society board chairman Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa led the walk with former Health Minister HE Dr Faisal Al Hamar and Bahrain Diabetes Society representative Dr Mariam Al Hajri

Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, HE Dr Faisal Al Hamar & Dr Mariam Al Hajri with bnl officials

Ollie, Derrie, Mark, Larissa, Maxine, Julie & Cath

Dr Hala, Sherif, Mary, Lubarin & Zinab

32 January 2014

Ahmed, Hessa, Jannat & Dr Sami

Kerry, Kelli & Bella

Diane & Diana

Bashayer & Manayel

Ashu & Faiza

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsartsculture When? January 15-18 | Event? Art festival | Venue? Al Aali Shopping Complex

AL AALI SHOPPING COMPLEX

Living and Breathing Art

When? January 9 and 16 Event? Musical concerts Venue? Qal’at al Bahrain Museum A melodious evening is presented by a celebrated group.

E Call 17 567-171.

An event that has helped develop Bahrain’s art scene is back again for another edition playing host to some of the most well known artists on the island.

Al Aali Shopping Complex is set to kick off 2014 on a high note with one of its most anticipated annual events. Gathering creative minds from across the island under one roof, the Al Aali Art Fest has become a staple in the calendars of art enthusiasts of different genres.

Now in its third year, the line-up of participants features both renowned and aspiring young artists. The artworks on display include all kinds of art forms from various mediums such as painting, sculpting, fashion design, music, photography, calligraphy and pottery.

With an aim to create an open platform for Bahraini talent, the shopping complex is transformed into a living gallery, set to inspire, captivate and enthral its visitors. Works by over 100 artists will be showcased under three main categories — art, music and fashion. All artworks will be on sale to the public.

Organisers hope to raise funds through the sale of pieces by donating 20 per cent of the proceeds to a number of charitable causes in the country.

Keeping budding artists of all ages in mind, schools will have an opportunity to showcase their talent too. Drawing boards featuring art created by students and teachers of some of Bahrain’s leading educational institutions will be on display.

Racing fanatics are also in for a treat this year with the unveiling of a fully decorated Formula One car sculpture.

34 January 2014

When? January 4 Event? A talk by Christine Khonjie Venue? Bin Mattar House She talks about the effects of archaeology and mythology on her art.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? January 15-18 Event? Arts Festival Venue? Al A’ali Shopping Complex Check out this showcase of local art with workshops in multiple mediums.

E Call 39 994-858.

In another effort to inspire creative young minds, various workshops will be held throughout the four days by renowned artists. The experts will provide guidance and impart techniques to help budding artists in their pursuit of mastering their craft. There will also be plenty of entertainment for the entire family through live caricatures, cartooning, on-the-spot pottery making, henna designing and live music.

The event will set the stage for anamorphic painting displays

by Guinness World Record holder Limnesh & Group. To get some friendly competition flowing amongst the younger generation, an open photography contest on the subject ‘Al Aali Shopping Complex’ will be held. So, whether you are looking to get your name out there as the next big thing or just want to take in and enjoy the nation’s brightest artists, don’t miss this unique cultural affair.

E Call 17 007-270 or 17 581-000, or visit www.alaaliartfest.com.

When? January 21-February 20 Event? Photography exhibition Venue? Bin Mattar House Acclaimed Bahraini photographers present facets of India.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? January 30 Event? Musical concert Venue? Bahrain Fort Museum Ala Ghawas and Likwid deliver an entrancing performance.

E Call 17 564-654.

When? Throughout January Event? Art exhibition Venue? TBA View a display of Shaikh Rashid Al Khalifa’s work.

E Visit www.rashidalkhalifa.me.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsartsculture

An Art Affair Mohammed Al Khalifa is putting together a celebration that will see important artists from abroad visiting the Kingdom.

BAS was born in 1983 when a group of young Bahraini artists led by Sh. Rashid got together and requested the government to form an arts body.

“We were all youngsters then who’d studied in the US, the UK or elsewhere in the Middle East region. We had the ambition and the drive to build a vibrant active arts scene in the Kingdom,” he recalls. “Then Minister of Culture Tariq Almoayyed suggested that we go ahead and establish it on our own.”

Since then, the fortunes of BAS have risen and ebbed until the present moment, when things are looking up again. The society, which currently has 250 members, has found a new home and will be moving out of its Budaiya premises in the coming months.

“We’re putting together a fresh programme for this year with more workshops and are trying to modernise the society’s administration,” adds Sh. Rashid. “In this digital age, we aim to have better channels of communication, including social media platforms to be in touch with the rest of the world.”

Shaikh Rashid Al Khalifa

SIMI KAMBOJ This month marks two milestones for art in Bahrain. Sh. Rashid Al Khalifa takes us down memory lane and talks about the future of art on our island.

36 January 2014

The Kingdom will celebrate four decades of association with art this month, the oldest for any country in the region. One of Bahrain’s earliest painters, Shaikh Rashid Al Khalifa, has been a driving force behind the thriving arts scene here.

“We’re proud that Bahrain has held cultural events for the last four decades. Thanks to the support and encouragement of HRH Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, we’ve been able to have an uninterrupted cultural calendar. Artists need that encouragement and support to continue working,” notes Sh. Rashid, who held his first exhibition in Bahrain in 1970.

While the Kingdom has hundreds of practising artists and there’s no dearth of talent, Sh. Rashid believes Bahrain should undertake an active programme to nurture creativity if it is to produce groundbreaking talent.

“There are many Bahraini students who have won competitions abroad until the age of 12; but why not after this age? This is something we need to look into,” he observes.

The Kingdom needs more workshops, frequent visits from foreign artists and more trips abroad for Bahraini artists to make its art circuit richer, he believes.

This month will also see the Bahrain Arts Society (BAS) celebrating its 30th anniversary, with Sh. Rashid as the honorary president. The Ministry of Culture led by Shaihka Mai bint

The artist’s eye It was Oscar Wilde who remarked, “No great artist ever sees things as they really are. If he did, he would cease to be an artist.”

“Perhaps that suggests that our approach to art should be open-minded and questioning rather than outright rejection or negative,” he opines. “There is no such thing as ugly art. What you like, someone else might hate. God made everything beautiful in its own way. You have to have the eye and a feeling to perceive it.”

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsartsculture

An Art Affair Mohammed Al Khalifa is putting together a celebration that will see important artists from abroad visiting the Kingdom.

BAS was born in 1983 when a group of young Bahraini artists led by Sh. Rashid got together and requested the government to form an arts body.

“We were all youngsters then who’d studied in the US, the UK or elsewhere in the Middle East region. We had the ambition and the drive to build a vibrant active arts scene in the Kingdom,” he recalls. “Then Minister of Culture Tariq Almoayyed suggested that we go ahead and establish it on our own.”

Since then, the fortunes of BAS have risen and ebbed until the present moment, when things are looking up again. The society, which currently has 250 members, has found a new home and will be moving out of its Budaiya premises in the coming months.

“We’re putting together a fresh programme for this year with more workshops and are trying to modernise the society’s administration,” adds Sh. Rashid. “In this digital age, we aim to have better channels of communication, including social media platforms to be in touch with the rest of the world.”

Shaikh Rashid Al Khalifa

SIMI KAMBOJ This month marks two milestones for art in Bahrain. Sh. Rashid Al Khalifa takes us down memory lane and talks about the future of art on our island.

36 January 2014

The Kingdom will celebrate four decades of association with art this month, the oldest for any country in the region. One of Bahrain’s earliest painters, Shaikh Rashid Al Khalifa, has been a driving force behind the thriving arts scene here.

“We’re proud that Bahrain has held cultural events for the last four decades. Thanks to the support and encouragement of HRH Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, we’ve been able to have an uninterrupted cultural calendar. Artists need that encouragement and support to continue working,” notes Sh. Rashid, who held his first exhibition in Bahrain in 1970.

While the Kingdom has hundreds of practising artists and there’s no dearth of talent, Sh. Rashid believes Bahrain should undertake an active programme to nurture creativity if it is to produce groundbreaking talent.

“There are many Bahraini students who have won competitions abroad until the age of 12; but why not after this age? This is something we need to look into,” he observes.

The Kingdom needs more workshops, frequent visits from foreign artists and more trips abroad for Bahraini artists to make its art circuit richer, he believes.

This month will also see the Bahrain Arts Society (BAS) celebrating its 30th anniversary, with Sh. Rashid as the honorary president. The Ministry of Culture led by Shaihka Mai bint

The artist’s eye It was Oscar Wilde who remarked, “No great artist ever sees things as they really are. If he did, he would cease to be an artist.”

“Perhaps that suggests that our approach to art should be open-minded and questioning rather than outright rejection or negative,” he opines. “There is no such thing as ugly art. What you like, someone else might hate. God made everything beautiful in its own way. You have to have the eye and a feeling to perceive it.”

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsartsculture When? January 9 and 16 | Event? Musical concerts | Venue? Qal’at al Bahrain site museum

City Symphony

India Framed A photographic journey into the Indian subcontinent goes on display at the Bin Mattar House in Muharraq from January 21. This vivid display, titled Inside India, is a unique amalgam of dramatic imagery and intimate emotions captured by Bahrain’s some of the most prolific photographers.

Haya AlKhalifa, RashaYousif, Saji Antony and Stephanie Ravel bring their experiences and memories to life from their travels across the mystical land. The exhibition runs until February 20 and openings hours are 9am-1pm and 4pm-7pm, Saturday to Thursday.

E Call 17 322-549.

38 January 2014

When? January 30 | Event? Musical concert | Venue? Bahrain Fort museum

When? January 21-February 20 | Event? Photography exhibition | Venue? Bin Mattar House

A celebrated musical group comes to town to strike perfect harmony against the glorious backdrop of this heritage site. The internationally-acclaimed Strauss Festival Orchestra (SFO) Vienna performs at the site on January 9 and 16. Founded in 1978 by Peter Guth, and Herbert Vedral, it has to its credit, countless appearances at significant music festivals, sensational TV concerts, tours around the world and CD recordings. The orchestra,famousfor its authentic interpretation of Viennese music in historical formations, offers a

wide repertoire ranging across classics to their modern compositions.

Boasting a contingent of outstanding musicians, the SFO Vienna is able to maintain its leading position ahead of similar ensembles. Peter Guth shares musical direction with concertmaster Willy Büchler, of the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, who takes over the annual tours in Japan and New Year’s concerts.

True to the tradition of Johann Strauss, they both conduct with the violin in hand. E Call 17 567-171.

Screams and Symphony A local sensation, and on his way to becoming an international name, catch Ala Ghawas live in performance at the Bahrain Fort Museum on January 30. Known for his folk sensibilities and soulful lyrics, his brand of music presents a perfect blend of east and west.

Ala draws inspiration from artists like Bob Dylan, The Eagles and Jackson Browne. His latest recording project, Screams, comes after Hums and Whispers has received rave critical reviews. He collaborates with another Bahraini band, Likwid, for this show.

E Call 17 564-654.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsclubssocieties When? December 6 | Event? ‘Thank You Bahrain’ festival | Venue? National Stadium car park

When? TBA Event? Family day Venue? Dilmun Club Fun day out for your family with games and entertainment.

E Call 17 690-926.

Dr KJ Yesudas

When? January 16 and 17 Event? Pongal celebrations Venue? Indian Club The Tamil community comes together to celebrate this festival of harvest.

E Call 39 660-475.

When? January 23 Event? Australia Day celebrations Venue? InterContinental Regency Bahrain The Australian community tucks into a great barbecue brunch.

E Call 32 054-862.

When? January 24 Event? Musical Concert Venue? Keraleeya Samajam Hall Enjoy an evening of Carnatic music by maestro Yesudas.

E Call 17 231-717.

When? January 31 Event? Dog Walk Venue? BSPCA Animal Welfare Centre at Askar Walk with your canine friends while raising money for charity.

E Call 17 591-231.

The Kingdom’s social clubs and communities play a very important role in its calendar of annual events. Here’s how they give a vibrant start to the New Year.

The Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam, together with the Indian Institute for Performing Arts, stages a celebration of Indian Carnatic music through the Nada Gandharvam festival on January 24. Multi-award winning singer Dr KJ Yesudas has been invited to perform at the Keraleeya Samajam Diamond Jubilee Hall.

This is the third year Bahrain will host a Carnatic music maestro. In the past, legends like Dr Balamuralikrishna and Pandit Ramesh Narayan have performed in the Kingdom. Dr KJ Yesudas has recorded over 50,000 songs in scores of languages and is fondly called Gana Gandharvan, which translates to the celestial singer.

For this show he is accompanied by Jayadevan on the violin, Thiruvarur Bakthavalsalam on the mridangam and Tripunithura Radhakrishnan on the ghatam. E Call 17 231-717.

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organising a gala barbecue brunch as part of their Australia Day celebrations on January 23. Observed annually on January 26, the day marks the anniversary of the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Sydney Cove.

The Australian expatriate community is expected to gather in full strength at Intercontinental Regency Hotel Bahrain for this event, which includes a variety of native dishes, ales and entertainment. There’s also a coffee morning on January 21 at Organic Foods & Café in Seef Mall.

E Call 32 054-862.

Pongal Celebrations The Kingdom’s Tamil community rejoices this month as the Pongal festivities get underway. The Indian Club leaves no stone unturned in celebrating it with complete traditional fervour. The two-day event starts on January 16 when a number of cultural programmes take place at the club. These include several performances by local South Indian groups; the main act is by a group of artists that will fly in especially for the function.

The next day is a grand feast open to all club members and their guests. The club expects nearly 3,000 people for lunch this day. E Call 39 660-475.

Wag n’ Walk It’s time to raise some money for your canine companions!

Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) invites you to take part in the annual dog walk on January 31 at its Animal Welfare Centre in Askar. Bring your own dog; alternatively pair up with any of the 60 friends from the BSPCA shelter.

At this race it’s not the fastest who wins but the duo that walk the longest, as you collect sponsors for each kilometre you cover. Registration fee is BD10 and can be done the same day at 9am.

E Call 17 591-231.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningskidsteens When? January 24 | Event? Kids Knowledge Event | Venue? Bahrain Science Centre

Nurturing Junior Scientists Beckoning the young and curious minds of the Kingdom, this interactive event promises a number of educative exercises delivered in a fun and engaging way.

An institution that almost serves as a window to Britain’s high standards of education and learning practices, The British Council Bahrain is organising a special knowledge event for kids during The Great British week. Aimed at children aged seven to 14, the programme runs as an extension of the higher education event that will be hosted earlier this month.

The event demonstrates British innovation to the younger generation in Bahrain in a way that is fun and engaging. It brings together various strands of the British Council’s work with young people and schools in Bahrain, such as the Kids’ Read Programme, arts projects, and their expertise in learning and education.

The programme is being held at Bahrain Science Centre, a popular venue where learning meets fun. It has a record of hosting great events for young people and adults, on their own and in partnership with other organisations.

The Kids Knowledge Event runs over two days. The first day is for the benefit of over 1,500 students enrolled at British Council’s Teaching Centre. The second day, January 24, is open to the public from 3pm-9pm.

There are a host of fun activities for kids, including a knowledge treasure hunt, storytelling and a photo gallery of

42 January 2014

British innovation. Outside the centre there will be the Big Red Bus, a double-decker London bus turned into a reading centre for kids, an activity tent, pottery studio and a café.

“We are really excited to have the Big Red Bus, which has been brought from the UK for the Great British Week. For our Kids Read Programme, we have a little red bus that we use as a library. So this is our chance to have a giant version,” says Emily Sawle Thomas, deputy teaching manager at British Council.

Kids can get on the bus and choose books to read, go up to the top deck to look at the books they have chosen, and then come to the activity centre for some ‘make-and-do’ activities.

Junior Fashionistas

Mark of British Excellence The British Council is dedicated to creating cultural synergies between the people of the UK and other countries. Represented across six continents in over a 100 countries, it works with millions of people each year, connecting them with the United Kingdom, sharing its cultures, language, arts and education.

The council’s work has helped people worldwide to learn about and experience creativity and excellence from the UK. Millions of talented people of all ages, particularly younger people are given a chance to engage face-to-face and online in order to learn English, develop new skills, and study in British institutions.

It is time to design again at The Official Fashion Organisation, a unique group and academy for children interested in fashion design. The studio is open after a break this month with a number of classes on fashion, modelling and sewing.

The sewing classes use home sewing machines that are easy to use and safe. The centre uses low temperature glue guns, hand sewing needles, quilters’ pins and scissors to create wearable garments.

Artistic freedom is given to children to express themselves through their designs and garments. The centre is located in North Sehla. Classes begin in the first week of January.

E Call 17 266-166.

E Call 17180-343.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happeningssportsrecreation When? Throughout January | Event? Sporting events | Venue? Various locations

Get Ready for Action A new year means a fresh roster of sporting events to keep up with. Bahrain This Month rounds up a few of the top tournaments and events of the season.

The Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (BREEF) never disappoints when it comes to their show jumping agenda. This year, the highly anticipated Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa Championship will kick start on January 11, bringing in horse riders from around the region.

The Khalid Bin Hamad Horse Racing Festival is another staple in the county’s equestrian calendar. Now in its third year, the Special Needs Cup is designed to give Bahrain’s riders a platform to hone and showcase their skills in the sport.

It doesn’t stop there though; the annual BREEF Show Jumping Championship and the prestigious Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Championship are set to be held on February 5 and 15, respectively.

In full swing The Bahrain Tennis Club (BTC) is always on top of their game and this month is no different. BTC will host the second EK Kanoo Junior Tennis Championship from January 5-29, an event that is gaining momentum amongst tennis fanatics in the Kingdom.

The Bahrain Goans 11-a-side Challenge Cup is another tournament to watch out for.

44 January 2014

When? January 5-19 Event? Tennis tournament Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club The second E.K. Kanoo junior championship is set to be a fierce one.

E Call 17 729-561.

When? January 6 Event? Golf tournament Venue? Royal Golf Club The first competition of the Monday Madness Night Golf Series is back.

E Call 17 750-777.

When? January 9 and 10 Event? Kings Cup Venue? Hamad Town and Al Najma Club Don’t miss the preliminary rounds of the all new season of the King’s Cup. E Call 17 685-775

Playing ball With the finals being held on January 10 at the Al Qadisiya Grounds, the football series will see teams like Kerala United and Bahrain Goans go head to head for the title.

Another highly competitive tournament is the Bahrain Expat Football League, which has just entered its sixth season.

Eleven teams will fight for the top spot with exciting fixtures held throughout January.

One of the most anticipated sporting fixtures of the month is the start of His Majesty the King’s Cup. The preliminary rounds start on January 9 with Al Tadhamum and Al Ittihad being the first game of the season. January 10 will see Isa Town, Budaiya, Galali and Ittifaq battle it out in two strong match-ups. All the games start at 6pm.

When? January 10 Event? Football tournament Venue? Al Qadisiya Club The winner of the Bahrain Goans 11-a-Side Challenge will be decided today.

E Call 39 659-539.

When? January 11 Event? Show jumping championship Venue? BREEF Get ready for another edition of the Shaikh Khalid Bin Hamad Championship.

E Call 17 836-199.

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Italian Aircraft Carrier Reception HE Alberto Veechi, Italian Ambassador & Admiral Giuseppe De Giorgi, Chief of the Italian Navy held a gala reception for a number of guests onboard the Italian Navy aircraft carrier "Cavour" while it was docked at the Mina Khalifa Port Rear Admiral Paolo Treu & HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador

Lee & HE Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador

Tomoko & HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador with Panos

Isabella, Arianna & Anna Maria

Betsy & Shaikha Hind

Vito, Giuseppe, Rachel & Gabriele

46 January 2014

Romina Vecchi & Zeina Testot

Abdulla Juma

HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador, Jalil Al Ansari & Khamis Al Muqla

Rear Admiral Treu & Talal Al Absi

Noor Al Badria

George

Vito, Francesco, Matteo & Paolo

Khalid, Alex & Fareed with members of the crew

Erica, Lauren & Ben

HE Alberto Vecchi & Abdulla Abdullatif Under Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Rafael, Anne & Hans

Nikita

Ricardo & Sara

Capt Francesca, Capt Angelo & CDR Giuseppe

Franka, Ruben & Gina

HE Karim Al Shakar

Vanessa & David

Maya & Rear Admiral Treu

Miguel

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Indian Embassy Groundbreaking Ceremony A groundbreaking ceremony was held to mark the laying of the foundation stone for the new Indian Embassy building in the Seef District. The ceremony was attended by HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Foreign Minister, HE Salman Khurshid, India's External Affairs Minister, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, HE Abdulla Abdullatif, Under Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and members of the Indian community HE Salman Khurshid & HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa at the unveiling of the foundation stone

HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa & HE Salman Khurshid

HE Salman Khurshid addresses guests & media

HE Abdulla Abdullatif, HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, HE Salman Khurshid & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Dinner In Honour Of HE Salman Khurshid HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & Mala Kumar hosted a dinner at India House in honour of HE Salman Khurshid, India's External Affairs Minister. The dinner was also attended by HE E. Ahamed, India's Minister of State for External Affairs, and senior officials including Indian Ambassador's dealing with the MENA region

Mridul Kumar, Joint Secretary (Gulf), HE Sunil Jain, Indian Ambassador to Kuwait & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, HE Salman Khurshid & Mala Kumar

HE Kuldeep Bharadwaj, Indian Ambassador to Algeria, Sandeep Kumar, Joint Secretary (WANA), Mala Kumar & HE Anil Trigunayat, Indian Ambassador to Libya

Mala Kumar, HE E. Ahamed & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Mala Kumar, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Omar Khurshid

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, HE Salman Khurshid & Mala Kumar with officials

Dinner In Ramee Grand For HE Salman Khurshid HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & Mala Kumar hosted a dinner at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, for HE Salman Khurshid, India's External Affairs Minister to meet the Indian association heads in Bahrain

48 January 2014

HE Salman Khurshid, Dr Ravi Pillai & Mohammed Dadabhai

HE Salman Khurshid & Raju Kallampuram

Mohammed Malim & Dr Ravi Singh

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Dr Nagesh Babu Party Dr Nagesh & Dr Jayashri Babu hosted a party for a number of their friends to celebrate the graduation of their children, Shruti & Abhishek. The party was held at the Sea Loft Hotel on Amwaj Islands last month

Dr Jayashri, Shruti, Abhishek & Dr Nagesh Babu

Dr Sam, Shruti, Abhishek & Dr Susan

Dr Hala, Mohammed Abbas, Dr Ebtisam Al Dallal, Dr Jayashri, Abhishek, Shruti, Dr Nagesh & Dr Hanan

Aziz, Dr Nagesh & Jaison

Chandini, Nainika & Dinesh

Ronnie, Dr Nagesh, Bahshar & George

Shyamala, Murali & Bhagyalakshmi

Dr Krishnan & Vani

Gurcharan Singh

Mr Kushang & family

Bhagyalakshmi, Dr Jayashri, Revanth, Lovely, Murali, Vishwas, Dr Joel, Dr Nagesh, Anand, Himanshu, Gulam, Abhishek, Shruti, Karthik & Qader

Mr & Mrs Narayan Prasad with Dr Nagesh & family

Prajit, Dr Nagesh, Mr & Mrs Haiko & Khalid

50 January 2014

Mohammed Sheza, Anand & Dr Joel

Dr Jayashri & Mrs Gurcharan Singh

Shruti & Rosaline

Mr & Mrs Anoop

Charlie

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Indian Ambassador Dinner HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & Mala Kumar hosted a dinner reception at India House for Ambassador's, prominent Bahraini's and their spouses last month

HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho'ala, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala & Rebab

HE Mohamed Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador, Mala, Lana & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Mala Kumar, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador & Bonnie Krajeski

HEAbdul Nabi Al Sho'ala, Ahmed Jawahery, HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, Qays Zu'bi, HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador

Fuad Kanoo, Mohammed Dadabhai & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Hussain Tadayon & HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho'ala

Jean, Veronique, Mala, Balqees, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Khalid Almoayed

Khalid Zayani, Sana Al Zayani, Mohammed Dadabhai, Anisa Dadabhai, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala, Nadia, Fuad Kanoo, HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador & Zeina Testot

HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, Bridget Lindsay, Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Jano Mouawad ,Vicky Mouawad, Mala Kumar & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

52 January 2014

HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador, Karina & Rebab

Huda, HE Sabine Taufmann, Karina, Mala, Rebab, Bonnie & Rashida

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Gernot Taufmann

Mala & Anne

Ahmed Jawahery & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Jarna

HE Alberto Vecchi & Qays Zu'bi

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Al Areen Christmas Tree Lighting The Al Areen Palace & Spa held a Christmas tree lighting reception to mark the festive season

Cherryl, Edwin with King, Gia, Cristina, Frances, Devaraj, Donna, Varsha & Sameera

Garry, Cristina, Sameera & Donna

Najeeya & King

Chevy, Vanessa, Jaja & Frances

Cherryl, Varsha & Tania

Adnan & Faye Sharabi Thanksgiving Dinner Adnan & Faye Sharabi hosted a Thanksgiving dinner for family & friends at their residence in Saar

Adnan & Faye

Bashir, Aref, Noha, Jude & Rakan

Feras & Aref

Mohamed, Hussein, Bashir, Rashida, Adrine & Bahiya

Adnan, Faye, Yasmin, Jenine & Karima

Karima

The Yellow Chilli 2nd Anniversary The Yellow Chilli Restaurant held a celebration to mark its 2nd Anniversary. Master chef Sanjeev Kapoor attended the event that also marked the launch of the outlet's new Emperors Buffet

Marise, Sanjeev Kapoor & Sergio

54 January 2014

Ahmed Fakhro, Sanjeev Kapoor, Mohammed Fakhro & Junaid

Ahmed with Sanjeev Kapoor

Sanjeev Kapoor with Jayaprakash, Jannya & Sreeja

Karen

Zahra & Sara

Santosh

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Deepening Engagement xxxxx We’re planning a new headquarters at the Mina Salman port, which will be far bigger with better facilities. We are committed to Bahrain and the region

Commodore Keith Blount

SIMI KAMBOJ The British Royal Navy has patrolled the Persian Gulf waters since the 1970s.

The New Year will find it consolidating its presence further in Bahrain.

56 January 2014

The Middle East region is important to the United Kingdom for a number of reasons. For one, it’s been the engine of the global economy for the better part of the last century. This economy is underpinned by the safe and free flow of international trade, mainly petroleum and gas products over open waterways.

“The stability of the global economy is important to us and I’d say the Royal Navy is in the region in the national interest,” says Commodore Keith Blount, commander of the UK Maritime Component Command in Bahrain.

In 2012, the UK imported over STG400 million worth of crude oil from the Middle East. The same year, almost 30 per cent of its gas imports came by sea, more than 97 per cent arriving from Qatar and Egypt.

The Royal Navy plans to make its presence in Bahrain more permanent over the coming years.

“We’re planning a new headquarters at the Mina Salman port, which will be far bigger with better facilities. We are committed to Bahrain and the region. This feels like a natural home for us; our continued presence here attests to the strong relationship between the two countries,” he says.

The Gulf region is home to a thousand maritime infrastructure installations. Further, the Strait of Hormuz witnesses ships carrying 16 to 18 million barrels of oil and at least two million barrels of petroleum products on a daily basis, accounting for about 30 per cent of the total oil movement internationally. With so much wealth transiting the area, the security of these waters is crucial for Britain and other countries around the world.

Commodore Blount has oversight of Royal Navy warships and aircraft in the region as they deliver security missions in countering piracy, terrorism and the flow of narcotics. In his capacity as deputy commander of the Combined Maritime Forces, his brief involves coordinating naval ships from over 30 nations, which support security missions.

Increased vigil along the Gulf of Aden has contained piracy to a great extent. In 2011, there were 130 incidents of pirate attacks and 20 ships were under control of pirates off the coast of Somalia. Last year, there were only two incidents of attack.

“While the military has made a big difference, the maritime industry deserves credit in their efforts to educate ships in the precautions against pirate attacks. The private security teams that sail on ships providing the last line of defence have also been effective,” he notes.

However, there is a danger of remission; the piracy threat will be back in no time if the pressure on the pirates was relieved, he believes.

A helicopter pilot by trade, Commodore Blount is in the 30th year of his naval career. He’s had three stints at the Ministry of Defence, the last one as military assistant to the vice chief of the defence staff.

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spotlightthismonth

Back Seat Chat

Treading new roads, Bahrain This Month takes seasoned sports journalist and former chief executive of the Bahrain International Circuit out for a candid conversation about his love for sports and the place he now calls home.

58 January 2014

George F. Middleton with Martin Whitaker

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A sunny, winter afternoon, two men and a four-wheel mean machine — can it possibly get any better? In fact, it does.

George Middleton joins Martin Whitaker for a backseat chat in the new Range Rover L405 as they drive through the Amwaj Islands. Catch them in action on www.bahrainthismonth.com and www.euromotors.com.bh.

George: Martin you’re inextricably linked with the birth of motor sports in Bahrain and the Middle East region.

Could you tell us a little about what you’re actually doing nowadays?

Martin: First of all it’s very kind of you to say that. I am now running my own company called Sportique 88, to develop a new operation here in the Middle East and just trying to help raise the profile and awareness of Bahrain on an international stage.

George: So you focus mostly on sports events?

Martin: Predominantly sports events, but also cultural and entertainment events.

George: What opportunities do you see for sports events in Bahrain?

Martin: I think it’s very big. At the moment we have some really good, stand-out, showcase events; Formula One is clearly an example. What we do need to do is establish manageable, cost-effective, interesting sports, where there can be audience participation and most importantly, young people.

George: You’re also involved with the Great British Week event. Can you tell us a little bit more about it?

Martin: Yeah, it’s difficult to talk about the Great British Week without saying that it’s great! It’s an opportunity for the British community not only to demonstrate the relationship it has with Bahrain, but more importantly (it’s an opportunity) to demonstrate very clearly British excellence in engineering, technology and innovation. So the Great British Week is a fantastic event, which is going to demonstrate all those qualities. It’s run in association with the other activities that are taking place; for instance, the Bahrain International Air Show, which is growing in stature every year.

George: Tell me what you see of Britain in Bahrain?

Martin: There’s a great relationship between Britain and Bahrain. It goes back to 200 years. We used to drive on the left here; it was the first destination for Concord…English plugs, English telephone system. We can go on and on about it. But most importantly there’s been a very strong link between the British and the Bahrainis. And I think you still sense that to this day — a really strong relationship and a lot of friendship.

George: When you’re not busy organising sport events, how do you relax? What do you like to do?

Martin: I think I just like the simple things in life. I am not a great one for sitting in front of the television. I’d rather be out and about doing things. And actually Bahrain’s a fantastic place to live. If you think about it, it’s got everything you want.

George: So what’s your favourite thing about Bahrain?

Martin: To begin with, the weather and the relaxing atmosphere. It’s an easy place to live. You want to go to the Formula One circuit here, its 20 minutes away; it’s 20 minutes from wherever you are! You’ve got some great shops, some fantastic ones, really good restaurants, five-star hotels and a living environment which is just friendly.

The Range Rover L405 is now available from Euro Motors, the official distributor for Jaguar Land Rover in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

What a great car. This is the first time I’ve sat in the L405 ; it is a seriously nice ride – Martin.

To view the video, click the QR code above, or visit www.bahrainthismonth.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2014 59

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The Diplomat Christmas Tree Lighting The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Residence & Spa held a Christmas tree lighting at the hotel's lobby marking the festive season. The event also featured a Gingerbread House decoration competition

Panos, Doris & Alex

Veronika, Mariam, Natasha, Kelsey, Channah & Meredith

Adnan, Irene, Dahlia & George

Tiana

The Manama Singers

Rania, Doris & Alex with Santa

Channah, Lukas & Charmain

Anja & Frieda

Francesco, Lisa & Wendy

John & Ahmed

Alia & Ameena

British Embassy Carols Evening HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador and Bridget Lindsay hosted a number of members of the British community for Christmas carols at the Embassy gardens last month. The St. Christopher’s school choir performed during the evening, with donations made during the evening to be donated to the Be Free Centre and the Alia for Early Intervention Centre

Bridget Lindsay, second from left with guests

Nelly, Jack, Chris & Trisha

60 January 2014

The school choir

Karen, Edwin, Natasha & Nathan

Sarah & Beverley

Julie & Paula

HE Iain Lindsay with one of the singers

Ailsa & Louise

www.bahrainthismonth.com

businessthismonth When? January 8-9| Event? Trainers Meet Trainers | Venue? Bahrain Conference Centre

Evolving Training Strategies Three decades ago, Bob Pike revolutionised trainer training with a focus on interaction and learners’ participation. This month, Bob brings his learning strategies to Bahrain.

For organisations to stay relevant today they can no longer use the tried and tested learning methodologies of the last decade. In today’s globalised world defined by competition and change, approaches that worked in the past in now either irrelevant or inappropriate.

The Trainers Meet Trainers (TMT) conference is designed around the theme ‘New Learning Strategies for the Workplace’.

Participants, including training managers and training advisors, teaching professionals, HR managers, trainers and learning specialists, will gather to explore the best practices worldwide in the learning and development field.

Bob Pike will lead a host of training experts in answering questions, such as what learning tool work now and how organisations can maximise productivity and performance with effective learning interventions.

Founder and chairman of Creative Training Techniques Press, Bob has developed and implemented training programmes for businesses, governments and professionals since 1969. He believes that employees today face an information overload because they tend to equate learning with sharing information.

“If there’s something we want to change, we think about how to get more information to people. In fact, most of the courses Also this month

today are focused exclusively on sharing information. While sharing information is part of the learning process, it isn’t the learning process,” he says.

In order to be effective, a training course needs to take the information and package it in a way that allows the learner to use it.

“Learning happens when you present information in such a manner that the learner is able to see its relationship and context. Such an approach gives learners the freedom to explore the content and puts them in a position of discovery, which enhances learning greatly,” he adds.

Bob will address the issue of ‘Getting to the Core of Training’ at the conference.

“A successful training programme is always a work in progress and the training cycle isn’t complete without an evaluation of the training’s effectiveness,” he believes, and concedes that the explosive growth of IT has changed the way we learn.

“It’s widely accepted that technology-led learning requires meaningful interactivity to improve learners’ skills and deliver results. What’s not well understood is that not all types of interactivity are equally effective. In fact, the least effective forms of interactivity are also some of the most popular because they are easy to implement using templates and wizards such as quizzes, interaction and assignments,” he says.

Designing effective e-learning requires creativity and knowledge of basic design principles, but that’s what makes it interesting. E Call 39 417-787.

Business Innovation Organised by Expressions Marketing Communication, Alexander Blass is the key speaker at this seminar taking place on January 9, at the Al Fanar Hall in The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel.

Alexander is an internationally acclaimed innovator with Daily Record’s ‘Top Innovator of the Year’ award to his credit. He is known for inventing personto-person ‘crowd’ fundraising technology, which rapidly spread worldwide on the Internet and has helped countless people.

He presently serves as CEO of the Innovation Institute of America, based near Washington DC. E Call 17 744-898.

62 x Conference - 64 x Interview

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2014 61

businessconference When? January 18 | Event? Advanced Engineering and Innovation conference | Venue? Bahrain International Circuit

Celebrating the Best A signature event within the Great British Week showcases British expertise in the spheres of engineering, innovation and design.

62 January 2014

Flying the flag for the best of Britain’s engineering, the Advanced Engineering and Innovation Conference will showcase the country’s leading role in the automotive and aerospace industries.

The event at the Bahrain International Circuit is an important component of the Great British Week and over 200 delegates are expected to attend. On arrival, guests will be treated to a unique line-up of British manufactured cars, motorcycles and machinery including Mini, Jaguar, Land Rover and Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin, Triumph and JCB. Other British exhibitors include Ordnance Survey and its Bahrain partner SLRB, McLaren Automotive, McLaren Applied Technologies, JCB, Bloodhound SSC, Blue Water Bio and the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB).

“The McLaren group of companies is leading example of British design and engineering talent. With a strong investment from Mumtalakat in the ownership of the company, it’s fitting that McLaren is one of the companies that we spotlight during the event,” notes Martin Whitaker, managing director, Sportique 88.

Two of the Formula One Paddock lounges are being used for the event. In a Formula One Pit Garage below the conference halls, the McLaren Automotive team will demonstrate the company’s staggering road car products; the 12C and the all-new P1.

Alongside McLaren in an adjacent garage, students from St Christopher’s school will exhibit what they’ve achieved in design, research and development, and production with the dynamic Formula One in Schools mini race cars.

Bloodhound SSC

Paul MacKenzie, programme director at McLaren Automotive is one of the main speakers at the event. Paul will unveil the company’s latest supercar, the McLaren P1. The car will be demonstrated to guests and exhibitors on track during the morning event.

Jim Newton, the market development director at McLaren Applied Technologies will discuss the wide range of activities his company is involved in.

Jason Sutcliffe, marketing director of Rolls-Royce Aero, will illustrate the background of the company’s portfolio, its success and provide an insight into some of the latest technology the company has engaged in.

The fourth speaker, Richard Noble, OBE, is a man on a mission and that mission is to break the 1,000mph (1600km/h) barrier on land. Richard was the holder of the world record for land speed between 1983 and 1997. He is now leading the Bloodhound SSC project aimed at extending the record in 2015.

The EDB has invited around 100 delegates from a variety of businesses which have an interest in the automotive and aerospace sectors. Companies such as JCB and Atkins represent the construction industry. The Ordnance Survey and SLRB will demonstrate how satellite technology is being used to help engineers as well as the general public, with a range of mapping activities designed to extend the use of maps in ways that were inconceivable a few years ago.

E Email info@yallabahrain.com.

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businessinterview

Surging Ahead xxxxx The Gulf Hotel has accomplished a lot since it opened its doors in 1969. Happily, my role will be to build on what has been achieved so far renovation exercise this summer, with the South Wing being completely refreshed. The Gulf Executive Residences will also be revamped with a modern ambience.

“The Gulf Hotel has accomplished a lot since it opened its doors in 1969. Happily, my role will be to build on what has been achieved so far,” says new general manager, Rahim Omar.

The Jordanian national is no stranger to the GCC market having spent 30 years in the hospitality sector in Dubai, where he opened five hotels. While he finds Bahrain much more relaxing after Dubai, Rahim makes it very clear that he wouldn’t have moved to the Kingdom at this point if it hadn’t been for the Gulf Hotel brand.

“Combining the hotel with the executive apartments we have an inventory of 460 rooms, which is quite big for Bahrain. While competition from new players definitely represents a challenge, we believe the market is growing. If Bahrain is promoted well abroad, the business that’ll be generated will offset the large inventory piling up in the Kingdom,” he believes.

Meanwhile, the Gulf Hotel will open its Indian restaurant in collaboration with an international celebrity chef in September this year. The launch of a commercial laundry on the hotel premises this year is expected to be another revenue generator.

New spa complex Rahim Omar

SIMI KAMBOJ Just shy of its 45th anniversary, the Gulf Hotel is ushering in many developments in the New Year. New general manager Rahim Omar outlines his plans.

64 January 2014

As the first indigenous five-star hospitality company, the Gulf Hotel has a tradition of setting benchmarks in Bahrain. It prides itself on the wide selection of food and beverage outlets, 14, the biggest room inventory, the largest convention centre in town with 29 meeting rooms and the highest participation of nationals in its workforce.

This heritage will be celebrated later this year when the hotel marks its 45th anniversary. In preparation of this milestone, the hotel is embarking on a comprehensive

To help guests relax and unwind, the Gulf Hotel is opening a BD3 million spa complex in late 2014 or early 2015.

Designed by Portugal based spa specialist ASPA, the twostorey spa will feature hydro pools, hammam, sauna and steam room, treatment rooms and relaxation areas on both floors. The ladies’ floor will include a fully equipped gym, a beauty, hairdresser, nail salon, and a spa boutique. The complex will feature a roof-top terrace with an outdoor relaxation area and a healthy refreshment service.

“The spa will provide the same level of exceptional service that the Gulf Hotel is renowned for and will help maintain our tradition of excellence in Bahrain,” says Rahim.

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British School Family Fair The British School of Bahrain celebrated the global citizenship of its student body and the ethnic diversity of the school at its annual International Family Fair organized by the Friends of the British School of Bahrain, a group of parent volunteers

Eman, Megan, Alia & Yasmina

Abeer, Maha, Sereen, Zain, Malat & Rudaine

Maria, Simonette & Elisabeth

66 January 2014

Galiena, Annet, Margaret & Ernst

Maria & Marie

Ruth & Nicola

Judy, Levi, Nelly, Elizabeth & Nora

Nicky, Maxine & Julie

Rawia, Jeremy & Chad

Laurent, Augusta & Steve

Raja & Shanthini

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Azadea Appreciation Night The Azadea Group held an appreciation night for the group's employees at the Al Dana Ballroom, Gulf Hotel. The event was attended by Azadea management and employees from its various divisions

Sameer, Nabeel & Rajith

Jamal, Fadi, Fouad, Ramya, Pierre, Natasha, Elie & Farid

Pierre, Hussain, Mohamed & Ahmed

Sadiqa & Elize

Tamrya & Zaid

Taj, Hussain, Suman & Abdulrahman

Mahmood, Sofia & Shaikh Ahmed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ekram & Amro

Eman

Jamal & Nishel

January 2014 67

bystanderthismonth

Gulf Hotel Christmas Tree Lighting The Gulf Hotel brought in plenty of festive cheer with the lighting of the hotel's Christmas tree.

Santa was also present much to the delight of the kids that attended the event

Joann, Anju & Cliff

Linda, Laura, Thabet & Sami

Santa with kids

Ana, Natasha, Alise, Ahmed & Ayah

Cora, Dsithi & Anne

Windy & Palima

Priscilla, Alma, Mina, Cora, Raquel & Cynthia

Alexis & Anna

Sarah

Ruth

Rihan, Maha, Dana & Maha

VIVA Media Cook-off Challenge VIVA hosted its second media appreciation event, the ‘VIVA Media Challenge’. This year’s event included the ‘Media Cook-off Challenge’ at the Royal Golf Club. The event which attracted participation from Bahrain’s top media publications witnessed individuals and teams creating recipes from the ingredients provided by the kitchen team at the Royal Golf Club

Karla, Zena & Melissa

Theo, Kannan, Gurdeep & Sudheesh

68 January 2014

Farheen & Maryam

Charlie, Omaima & Puja

Farheen & Maryam in action

Lathifa, Nasreem, Pooja & Jamal

Mona & Noor

Soraya & Carol

Malick

Jennifer & Naseem

Rasha & Reem

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Goa Lounge Launch Party The management of Lanternts Restaurant in Adliya hosted a party for a number of guests to mark the launch of the restaurant's new Goa Lounge last month

Iris, Lalit, Susi & Bee

Preeti, Manjita, Vicky, Hemant, Jagdish, Usha & Dave

Vijay & George

Uday, Christine & Anwar

Mo, Mariana & Isaac

Marina & Anna

Asfia

Pascoal & Warren

Charlie & Carolina

Vinita, Dona & Sushil

Shaun, Michael & Mercy

Jasim & Warren

Guido & Ali

DJ Joey Nizz

Sharon, Angela & Paris

Fawas & Ahmed

Abbas & Mo

InterNations Reception InterNations - a trusted Network & Guide for Expats in Bahrain held a pre-Christmas reception for members and guests at the Bizarre Lounge,The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel, Bahrain City Centre

Troy, Mohammed & Fareed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Hannan, Lani & Burak

Abbey & Sheldon

Michael, Claudia & Jan

Haque & Berna

Jihan & Maria

Hilton

Mohamed & Mohammed

January 2014 69

bystanderthismonth

Golden Tulip Christmas Tree Lighting In keeping with the festive spirit, the Golden Tulip Hotel held a Christmas Tree lighting at the hotel's lobby last month Jose, Abas, Akram, Hasan, Zahi, Abdulrahim Al Sayed, Rasha, Jasmin, Vibeke & Younis

Hasan & Zahi

Rasha & Abdul Rahim

Vibeke, Rasha & Jasmin

The Choudhary family

The Golden Tulip choir

Chrizeldi & Almyne

Emma & Hima

Darin

The Butcher Shop & Grill Lunch The Azadea Group's The Butcher Shop & Grill Bahrain City Centre hosted a lunch for a number of guests to sample the outlet's new menu of salads, main courses and drinks

Pierre, Farid, Stuart & Alfred

Alison, Raihana, Dalia & Marise

Nicolas Tabbal, Regional Executive Chef

Tarek with Stuart Kohler, Brand Manager, The Butcher Shop & Grill

70 January 2014

Alvin & Datta

Farheen & Sanhita

Pierre, Farid, Stuart, Alfred, Tarek & Nicolas with staff

Genesis & Morgan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Closets Presentation The Closets International achieved the ISO 9001:2008 Certification for designing and installation of custom closets, kitchens and home/ office storage solutions.

The event was held at their offices in Capital Plus Tower, Seef area

Ali Al Haddad

Ali Al Haddad & Maria Fe Arcoy of AJA with the certificate and staff members

LG Art Competition AJM Kooheji Group in association with the Philippines School held an Art competition in the LG Sehla Showroom premises.

The 87 participants divided into two different groups, were given the theme of “Go Green with LG”.

Kids at the event

The winner

LuLu Celebrates National Day LuLu Hypermarket celebrated Bahrain National Day with colour and verve by paying tribute to the hard-working and innovative Bahraini business and manufacturing sector, at Riffa, Hidd, Dana Mall in Manama and at Ramli Mall in A’ali. The festival theme was ‘I Love Bahrain’

HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, Industry & Commerce Minister opens the festival

Kaleem, John, Juzer Rupawala & HE Dr Hassan Fakhro

RVIS Think Pink Charity Event The students of the Riffa Views International School (RVIS) participated in a Think Pink charity event which was held at the school to raise funds for Think Pink Bahrain

Yousif, Zaid, Isa, Fadi & Jaxon

Tala, Nahla, Farida, Layal & Suha

Julie, Hilary & Dana

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Irene & Sandra

Kids at the event

January 2014 71

bystanderthismonth

Maricris Christmas Party Maricris hosted a Christmas party for a number of her friends and their children at her residence last month. The children were presented with gifts much to their excitement that added to the festive cheer Kawaii, Jennie C, Acel, Jim, Bless, Maricris, Myla & Ces

Ms Susan Paras & her family

Nenett & Ranya

Acel

Jayden & Fely

Zoe & Nene

Ian Sr., Jayden, Jennie, Lander & Avalon

Ian Jr. & Ryan

James, Henry & Kevin

Ranya, Ryan & Nenett

Jennie Canlas & Zoe

DJ Vennice

Sofitel Christmas Tree Lighting The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa held a Christmas Tree lighting to celebrate the festive season. The one-of-a-kind Dilmunthemed Christmas Tree features symbols of the The Dilmun civilization, which are depicted on the Christmas tree

Sami Boukhaled, Amani, Jassim Al Zayani & Charbel

Karim, Mayka, Hanane & Basel

The one-of-its-kind Christmas tree

72 January 2014

Denise, Jaziel, Marice, Jenny, Pamela & Irani

Iona, Sophie & Kyla

Hilary, Ghassan, Randa & Richard

Anthony, William & Megan

Lily & Trudy

Lilane

Nina

www.bahrainthismonth.com

downtimeintro

A Knight in Waiting ELMA BARTHOLOMEW What does a man have to do to get a knighthood around here? Wait — according to the deciding committee.

You would think a soccer legend of his stature would have become a knight already. Unfortunately, a row amongst the officials in charge of the top UK award has set David Beckham aside yet again.

The former England captain was expected to be recognised for his service to the nation before 2013 was out. Little did anybody expect his order of chivalry to be limited to the Order of the British Empire that he got a decade ago!

The rejection is embarrassing as this is not the first time that the shoe-in has been snubbed. Officials of the New Year’s Honours think it would do him no harm to wait a bit longer, say at least another year.

If Beckham is to receive the honour in the future, the entire vetting process will have to start from scratch.

The only good thing that perhaps came from the irrational decision is saving Posh from being titled Lady Victoria, unless she was looking forward to it. Who wouldn’t want to shake off the ‘Spice’ from their past?

The interesting aspect of this misfortune is the vigorous debate that is said to have taken place over whether Becks should get the nod.

Also this month

Apparently, the argument was that sporting medals were being given away like confetti.

Of course, this slam hinted at the knighting of Tour de Francewinning cyclist Sir Bradley Wiggins last year. He evidently isn’t used to behaving like a knight, considering he chose a charity dinner to support victims of child abuse as the perfect venue to make a crude sex joke.

Beckham has captained his country at an international level and played a key role in helping to secure the London 2012 Olympic Games for Britain.

He played for, among other clubs, Manchester United, Real Madrid and AC Milan, in a glittering career. The father of four has embarked on several charity projects, including with UNICEF and Elton John’s Aids Foundation.

The 38-year-old retired footballer isn’t the only one to be reserved for later. Andy Murray had also been seen as a likely candidate for a knighthood after becoming the first Wimbledon men’s singles champion after 77 years.

Adding insult to injury, Becks could only manage 13th place on GQ’s list of best dressed men of 2014, despite being named most stylish man in their own Men of the Year awards over a month ago.

Interestingly, Prince Philip, the 92-year-old Duke of Edinburgh has been voted on to the list as well, albeit in 26th place.

Although he was number eight on last year’s list, Prince Charles didn’t quite cut it in GQ’s revised line-up.

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Quotes of the Month “True charity is the desire to be useful to others with no thought of recompense.”

– Emanuel Swedenborg “Those who gave thee a body, furnished it with weakness; but He who gave thee Soul, armed thee with resolution. Employ it, and thou art wise; be wise and thou art happy.” – Akhenaton “It wouldn’t be New Year’s if I didn’t have regrets”.

– William Thomas

For more quotes use the QR code above to go to the Bahrain This Month website at www.bahrainthismonth.com.

January 2014 73

downtimegadgets

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

Editor's pick!

Time for tech Bar none

Sony’s latest SmartWatch, the SW2, has come a long way since the original. With competition from the likes of Samsung and possibly Apple, Sony has upped the anti with loads of social networking apps and a slick, streamline design.

Soundbars are being upgraded by the minute. The SB60 airSound Base from OrbitSound is one of the best available, and comes with 200W output, an integrated subwoofer and side-firing speakers. It is one of the most powerful available and one of the sleekest.

Along came a spider

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more futuristic looking watch than the Tokyoflash Kisai Spider Transparent LCD watch! With this screen, it gives the illusion that time is floating, and comes in a variety of sleek colours.

Cloudy with a chance of signal

Western Digital’s My Cloud is technically a hard drive in a box; the device, though, is actually so much more than just that. You can operate services such as Dropbox from the comfort of home, and you can use it as a home media server.

74 January 2014

Old-school charm

At a first glance, the Consolette from Marantz looks like a wonderful mix of old and new, with the front looking rather striking and vintage. The device comes with an iPod dock, of course, as well as three chunky buttons and a scrolling wheel to add to that vintage feel.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mirror (less) image

Canon have released their latest innovation, the Eos M2 Mirrorless Digital Camera with sharper images and interchangeable lenses.

The camera has built-in Wi-Fi as well as a new hybrid CMOS AF II sensor, allowing for super fast auto-focus.

Tablet talk

If Apple’s not your thing then you’d definitely be more suited to the new Kindle Fire HDX tablet. In terms of content it’s awesome, and with a price tag lower than the latest iPad, it’s a great alternative to Apple.

Smile for the camera

For those of you who want to improve your photography skills, then the Samsung NX300 is a perfect start! The camera is spectacular at what it does — amazing image quality, Wi-Fi and 1080p HD video, as well as looking great.

As it should sound

Sennheiser always seem to deliver the goods when it comes to sound quality. The cool design of the Momentum Headphones is matched by excellent sound quality, which while not noisecancelling drowns out any localised sound.

Get some air

With the awesome Zeppelin Air dock from Bowers & Wilkins you’ll get rich sound and an equally stylish dock for your iPod. The device also features AirPlay so you can stream from multiple devices, including your PC.

All gadgets are available online.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2014 75

downtimehappenings PUNCHLINE MEDIA

A Laughter Riot With stellar acts month after month, this comedy club returns with three international stand-up names, promising a host of hilarity.

A regular feature on the Kingdom’s events’ calendar, the Chuckle Club delivers a giggling hysteria this month as well.

Hitting our shores are three comic acts, all set to tickle your funny bone.

Adam Bloom Considered Britain’s one of the most inventive of comedians, he has performed sell-out solo shows throughout the last two decades at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Adam enjoys a large international following and has opened to packed houses in Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Wellington and Cape Town.

He has performed three times at the prestigious Montreal ‘Just for Laughs’ festival and even taken part in the ‘Just for Laughs Comedy Tour’ in 2004, performing to 42,000 people in 17 cities across Canada. Banksy, a pop culture icon himself, describes Adam performances as the equivalent of a “paramedic performing gag resuscitation on the roadside.”

The stand-up artist has written three series of The Problem with Adam Bloom, for BBC Radio 4, and had made appearances on The Stand Up Show, Channel 4’s Comedy Lab and Comedy Central’s Comedy World Tour and The World Stands Up.

James Acaster

James Acaster James began his professional career in 2008 and since then firmly established himself as one of the most popular young comedians in Britain. His performances are a cheery mix of low key whimsical routines, trivial stories and the odd bit of audience interaction.

In 2010, James won Off The Kerb’s ‘Laughing Boy New Act’ of the year and, the following month, performed to over 4,000 people. The same year he finished a national tour supporting Josie Long playing to audiences up to 400 people. James even supported Milton Jones on his national tour, performing to an audience of over 100,000 people across the UK. He performed his first solo show, Amongst Other Things, at the Edinburgh Festival, receiving a number of rave reviews.

He has recently recorded his own pilot for BBC Radio 4, James Acaster’s Findings, where he presents the results of his in-depth research into the subject of bread.

Silky A comedian for almost half of his life, Silky started out in 1994 with shows such as New Comedy Awards, The World Stands Up and the Comics Lounge for AUS. His portfolio of work include several performances across the UK, China, Kuwait, UAE, Singapore, the US, the Philippines, Kosovo, the Falkland Islands, the Melbourne Comedy Festival and all over Europe.

He is also the brain behind the ‘Kill for a Seat Comedy’ clubs across the UK and has performed with the MEN at Work satirical team, the Grand Theft Impro, Dublin Comedy Improv and Monkey Lab Improv teams.

You can catch them in action on January 29 at the Bahrain Rugby Club, the British Club on the 30th and Intercontinental Regency Bahrain on the 31st. E Call 36 663-509.

Adam Bloom

Silky

When? January 29-31 | Event? Stand-up comedy | Venue? Various

76 January 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HOME ELECTRONICS

Appliances Galore Are you diving head first into the ‘out with the old and in with the new’ mindset as we enter another year? Don’t forget to keep up with the latest gadgets, too.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The world of technology constantly changes; tablets are slimmer, apps are better and a superfast virtual world is only a swipe away. It’s hard to keep up, that’s for sure. However, Home Electronics can make any tech newbie look like a gadget wizard with their range of products. “Whatever the New Year may bring us, one thing we make certain is that all the trendy must-haves are easily available in Bahrain’s technology market,” says floor manager Bernadette Lim-Dones.

One of the best products on offer is the Philips DesignLine Ultra Slim Smart LED TV; a revolutionary floating glass design will take your breath away. The television comes with a powerful performance engine and makes a world of online content available at your fingertips.

“As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, it is not surprising for us to introduce a growing number of brands of portable speakers and devices, like the X-mini speakers.

Consumers can say goodbye to the twist-and-extend accordionlike designs and round, capsule shapes,” she continues.

The X-Mini UNO Mono Capsule Speaker is a small yet powerful little speaker that travels well. With exceptional sound for its size, it features ceramic drivers to help deliver the clear highs and warm bass. This is the perfect companion to toss in a bag for road trips, music at the office or conference rooms. The Nespresso capsule coffee machines are all the rage around the island. The innovative designs and state-of-the-art machinery delivers a perfect cup every time. For more products that can make your life easier, visit the Home Electronics showroom in Isa Town.

E Call 17 878-888 or 33 314-288.

January 2014 77

downtimemusic

The Great British Sound From The Beatles, Led Zeppelin to The Smiths, to name a few, the United Kingdom has given us some truly great music. Here’s some of the latest!

Jake Bugg Shangri La

MN BUMO ALTHE

OF

RATING:

WHAT’S THE STORY? When Jake Bugg first

TH

entered the mainstream, he proclaimed that his music countered the whole mass-produced pop stuff that The X Factor produced. The irony is that Bugg co-wrote a large proportion of the songs on his debut with a group of songwriters, including some who helped write tracks for Kylie Minogue.

Now, the 19-year-old returns with an album named after the studio in which it was recorded, under the helm of Rick Rubin.

There are enjoyable moments in terms of melodies on Shangri La.

WORTH A LISTEN?

The production on Shangri La reinforces the notion that Jake Bugg is, in a sense, manufactured. This is evident from the slight distortion of his vocals through to the crackling vinyl effects added to make the record as vintage and cool as possible.

Unfortunately, the songs are disappointingly average. Bugg tries to carry on his grim lyricism about council estate life, but this seems out of place after his rise to stardom. It takes away the meaning which was present in his debut.

Verdict: It does seem as if Bugg’s management is trying too hard to keep up the whole ‘ordinary guy’ image. The production is just too pretentious.

TOP TRACKS: Slumville Sunrise and A Song about Love.

One Direction

Midnight Memories The latest record from One Direction sees them try to move away from their clean-cut image to something more edgy (and I use the term lightly).

What we’re left with is what can only be described as teen tracks, only really appealing to people below 16 years of age.

78 January 2014

Gary Barlow

Since I Saw You Last The latest from Take That star and The X Factor judge Gary Barlow is much as you’d expect it to sound — rather dull.

There’s maybe one enjoyable song, but the rest of the tracks are pretty much wetter than the Atlantic Ocean.

Robbie Williams

Swing Both Ways Williams’ last swing record sold over two million copies when it was released back in 2001, which was more than any other Williams solo project. The return to this format would seem to be very lucrative indeed. For the most part, it’s cheesy and annoying.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Reese Mikkaeli's Birthday Party Mikka celebrated her 1st birthday with parents Romel and Cess, brother Renzo and some family friends at Hotel Diva

The family prepares to blow the candle on Mikka's cake

Mikka & her friends

Romel, Cess, Renzo & Mikka

Nicole with Mom Kathleen leading the prayer before meals

Myla, Maricris, Maria, Cess, Acel, Tessa & Jennie

Anne, Michelle, Rency, Cess & Mikka, Melody, Ysa, Bel, Joyce & Patty

Sharmi, Shantelle, Cess & Nori

Kempinski Christmas Tree Lighting The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre, held a festive event to mark the lighting of Bahrain's tallest natural Christmas Tree at the hotel's lobby

Puneet Singh

Bermet, Ruby, Emily, Sophie & Venezia

Ruby, Chris, Rebecca & Leyan

Ashu, Adhya, Arya, Jahnavi & Abhinav

Neeta & Anupam

Ramzi, Talal & Martyna

Alexander, Sari, Avalina, Marie & Louis

Taliya, Youss, Amir & Yasmin

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ben & Jessica

Elaria & Lorisa

Lois & Bing Bing

Maria & Sabeena

January 2014 79

downtimecomputergames

Enjoy the Ride TH GA E M M E ON TH

This month, get your engines ready for some of the best automotive games available.

Forza Motorsport 5

OF

(Xbox One) One of the first releases for the Xbox One, Forza Motorsport 5 showcases the graphic potential of the console.

However, in terms of gaming, it can get rather repetitive.

Need For Speed: Rivals (Xbox, PlayStation 4, PC) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Gaming giant EA brings one of their most popular franchises back into the limelight with the return of Need For Speed. In comparison to the other driving games available on the market, Rivals gives you so much more freedom when it comes to racing and challenges. You can take control of your environment and can choose whatever you want to do.

Gran Turismo 6 (PS4) It’s true that the latest Gran Turismo series is one of the most graphically spectacular games in a long time.

The handling has been greatly improved but the general feeling of the game is rather lacklustre when compared to Forza.

GRAPHICS: If any game is able to demonstrate the power of the new

consoles, Need For Speed: Rivals is one of them. The landscapes and every little detail are so spectacularly realistic. The cars are designed so fantastically that each race, jump and even crash looks great.

F1 2013

GAMEPLAY: The best aspect of Rivals is just how open ended it is. Once you’ve

completed the tutorial, you take charge. There’s a seemingly never-ending amount of races and challenges that keep this game feeling fresh and dynamic. This open world feel means you can choose which races to do and how you wish to upgrade your cars. You can also choose who you want to play as — the cops or the racers.

VERDICT: Of all the new automotive releases, Need For Speed: Rivals is one of the best. It fully shows the potential that the new consoles possess.

80 January 2014

(Xbox 360, PS3) For all the Formula One fans out there, this is a dream come true.

Take part in an F1 race with a fantastic array of cars and classic maps. It’s a shame that the next gen consoles don’t get to take advantage of the game. Those who still have the old ones will be delighted with this release.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

websites

SITEON EB M W THE

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Thepoke.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

The Poke is pretty much the biggest humour site in the UK, boasting over two million users worldwide. The site helps to ease the pain of the mundane with various hilarious articles and news stories, as well as jokes and pretty much anything else funny.

THE GOOD: The site is very easy to navigate, and in terms of content it’s certainly packed full of stuff. You can follow The Poke on Twitter as well, so you’ll never have to worry about missing a hilarious article.

This means you can easily share articles with friends and family more easily, which you can do also do on Facebook and the chance to share articles.

There’s a gallery full of hilarious images and even a Top 10 list of the best recent articles. You’re sure to find something that amuses you.

THE BAD:

It’s hard to really find much to be unhappy about with The Poke. The only thing that is slightly irritating are the advertisement which inundate the site, but that’s pretty much the same with everything on the Internet these days.

VERDICT: This cool little site is prefect for those who wish to lighten up their day.

British-comedians.co.uk This site contains information and a list of all of Britain’s best-loved comedians, spanning decades. While the site has a great deal of information and links to videos, it’s not the most visually appealing site.

7reasons.org 7reasons is a humour site which claims to have seven reasons for just about anything. There are topics such as ‘seven reasons to wear a traffic cone on your head’. The humour is quintessentially British and the site is easy to navigate.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2014 81

downtimeapps

Great British Apps The apps industry has exploded since its inception few years ago, with British startups joining the party. We look at some of the best British apps available on the market.

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Great British Chefs (iOS) This app is perfect for foodies. It has a list of amazing recipes by extraordinary British chefs in addition to information about them, with a massive database about the chefs, so there’s something for everyone.

BBC iPlayer (Android, IOS) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

BBC iPlayer is fantastic. Could you improve the way you catch up with all your favourite BBC shows? With the iPlayer app, you can. You can follow the best of the BBC from the comfort of your device.

THE GOOD: The ability to access iPlayer pretty much wherever you are is a massive bonus. Long journeys will no longer be boring if you can connect to this app and watch your favourite shows on the go. The app is designed well with a very clear and organised layout.

Searching for things to watch is even easier with a large selection of categories available to choose from. Not only is TV available, but so is radio; both work on 3G and 4G.

THE BAD:

One thing that is slightly bothersome is that iPlayer doesn’t always work in certain countries. Moreover, there can also be a time delay in the release of new materials in some locations, so you can’t watch the most recent shows.

How well the app works depends on your connection as well. If you’ve got a weak signal, then you become frustrated by the time it takes the buffering to stream the videos.

VERDICT: This is the app for those who want to stream their favourite BBC shows whenever and wherever.

82 January 2014

Sky Go (iOS, Android) Much like BBC’s iPlayer, Sky Go allows you to watch an incredible range of programmes on the go. There’s a lot to choose from. Although you might face the same problems when using a streaming app, it’s still great.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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movies

Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979) RATING: DIRECTED BY: Terry Jones STARRING: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Michael Palin, Eric Idle

THE PLOT:

Born on Christmas Day in the year 0AD in Judea, Brian (Graham Chapman) joins an Anti-Roman society and is mistaken for the Messiah.

WORTH WATCHING? It caused a massive amount of

controversy back in its day, but Monty Python’s Life of Brian encapsulates absolutely everything brilliant about British humour, with a non-stop array of gags and classic cinema moments. Even to this day, the movie remains a triumph of British cinema and one of the funniest comedies ever. It’s hard to find someone who hasn’t whistled Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.

VERDICT: If there were ever a film that could sum up British comedy in a nutshell, it would be Life of Brian.

28 Days Later (2002) Not only is Danny Boyle’s masterpiece one of the best British movies of the past two decades, it’s also one of the best ever zombie movies. Unique, chilling and scarily realistic, 28 Days Later is a spectacular horror flick.

A Clockwork Orange (1971) Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of the novel of the same name changed cinema forever. It was banned almost as soon as it came out, but Kubrick’s grim imagining of a futuristic London is hauntingly feasible. Malcolm McDowell’s performance is impeccable!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2014 83

bystanderthismonth

Lincoln MKZ Car Launch The all-new Lincoln MKZ made its Bahrain debut at a special event hosted by Almoayyed Motors, the sole Ford and Lincoln importer-dealer in the Kingdom at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. This is the first vehicle from the dedicated Lincoln Design Studio

Mohammed with Pedro & Andana Gonzales

The all-new Lincoln MKZ

Sandeep & Andrew

Wahab, Mario & Ahmed

Dharmesh, Mohammed Almoayyed, Mahmood Shamsi & Abbas

Abdulrahim Abbas & Mohammed

Ashraf & Heba

Mohammed & Layla

Paritosh & Dinesh

Gopi & Alok

Sonu & Srinivasan

John & Jody Party John & Jody Luckie Downe hosted a party for a number of their friends on their visit to Bahrain. The party was held at the residence of Bill in Adliya last month

John & Jody Luckie Downe

Valerie Lapiche, Bill Daly & Astrid Trichard

Lisa, Kathleen & Jody

84 January 2014

Darren, Doc, John & Ian

Patrick, Valerie, Ralph, Tina, Madeline & Jody

Adel & Adul Jabbar

Sally & Nick

John, Jody, Sally & Sir William

Gary, David & John

Joanna, Jody & Pola

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringthismonth

Lexus RC 350

Driving Emotions A stunning all-new production-ready coupe was unveiled by Lexus at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2013 which will be hitting showroom floors this year.

The term ‘all-new’ gets bandied about so much these days, often simply referring to a new version of an existing model, which strictly speaking, is inaccurate. ‘All-new’ should refer to models like this — the Lexus RC Coupé — because it gives the motoring world something to get truly excited about!

“Our focus is to strengthen the brand’s emotional appeal through our products and RC is another demonstration of this focus,” said Mark Templin, Lexus International executive vice president. “The emotional attachment of a coupé is found in its purity of design and its engaging driving experience. With RC our engineers have achieved the balance.”

The RC is part of a ride and handling revolution at Lexus, which started with the GS mid-size luxury sedan and continued with the new IS sport sedan. The new car is a stand-alone model, rather than a two-door derivative of a sedan. Based on the GS platform, the coupé differs in all dimensions from the GS and IS lines. The aggressively styled coupe will be available with two powertrains: 3.5-litre V6 teamed with an eight-speed sequential transmission and 2.5-litre Lexus hybrid drive system.

Looking at the RC, you can instantly see that it has taken strong design cues from Lexus’s supercar, the Lexus LF, especially in the shapes on the front and rear spoilers. The RC boasts that Lexus ‘spindle grille’ that we’re now seeing across the brand’s range.

Also this month

The driver’s cockpit is divided into operational and display zones. The upper zone houses the instrument panel and a seven-inch navigation screen while a layered centre console integrates a new Lexus-first remote touch interface.

The seats utilise an integrated foaming construction method, much like that used for racing seats, to ensure optimum occupant comfort and support which is important in a sport coupe.

The RC’s strong and purpose-built chassis is the latest evolution of Lexus’ objective to achieve a world class driving experience, epitomized by the improved performance of both the GS and IS lines.

Extra thick underbody rocker panels greatly increase the two-door’s rigidity to support driving performance. New manufacturing techniques pioneered in the LS and IS models, including the use of body adhesives, have strengthened the chassis.

Aerodynamic aids, especially on the underbody, contribute to the handling package. The RC uses double wishbone front suspension and multi-link suspension at the rear. This is the first Lexus to adopt the revised blind spot monitor system which detects vehicles that are approaching from behind at a higher speed and from a greater distance than is covered by the current system.

The innovative touch-sensitive remote touch interface for audio and navigation systems is particularly important in a coupé where tactile reaction is a desirable part of the driving experience.

When? January 6 Event? Dragster Xperience Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Check your top speed in a stateof-the-art Top Fuel dragster.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? January 7-9 Event? BDRC Race Day Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Get your dosage of adrenaline in this high octane race.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? January 10, 25 Event? Open Track Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Test your own top speed on the open track day.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? January 13 Event? Drag and Drift Venue? Bahrain International Circuit This is the ultimate performance test of yourself and mahcine.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? January 17 Event? Circuit Racing Club: Round 4 Venue? Bahrain International Circuit A number of cars battle it out at the race’s fourth round.

E Call 17 450-000.

86 x Wheels - 88 x Dubai International Motor Show - 90 x Feature - 93 x Showcase

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January 2014 85

motoringwheels

AMG: Awesome; Magnificent; Glorious Tony Sidgwick That isn’t really what the letters AMG stand for, but after a visit to Yas Marina Circuit for the AMG Performance Tour, that’s what we think they SHOULD stand for…

86 January 2014

It’s an almost perfect set of circumstances for a motoring buff — one of the world’s finest Formula One circuits; a drag strip; and, most importantly, almost the entire range of one of the world’s greatest sports car brands. The performance division of premium automaker Mercedes, aka AMG, is a sight to behold.

Reading from the entry-level vehicle up to the halo model is like a journey through automotive erotica — A45 AMG, C 63 AMG Coupe, C 63 AMG 507, E 63 AMG 4MATIC, CLS 63 AMG, SL 63 AMG and, the absolute icing on the cake, the SLS AMG GT. So you can imagine walking down the pit lane and seeing them all in the flesh, lined up and ready to be thrashed.

It was going to be a good day…

But where to start? One of the biggest initial impressions you walk away with from an AMG event is the glorious, glorious orchestra of those lovely V8 engines, it’s a truly wonderful sound. And of all of them, the stars are most definitely the naturally-aspirated 6.2-litre V8 from the C 63 507 and the SLS AMG. As the industry trend moves towards the more economical induction engines, naturally-aspirated ones like these will become increasingly rare as time goes on, so it’s possible that this will be one of the last great V8 engines to come out of Europe.

However, funnily enough, one of our favourite models from the whole experience is also the only model which DIDN’T boast one of AMG’s V8s, and that was the A 45 AMG. This is

one of the very latest AMG models to be unveiled by the company, and represents a whole new direction for the brand.

For a team traditionally dedicated to producing massively powerful V8 sports cars, this super hot hatch provides a hugely appealing entry-level option to the AMG range that is, in our opinion, guaranteed to win over a whole new client base.

The A 45 boasts an all-new engine from AMG, a twin-scroll turbocharged 2.0-litre four-pot, which might sound puny compared to these monstrous V8 models, but before you scoff, just look at the figures: 360hp and up to 450Nm of torque, making it the most powerful series production four-cylinder engine in the world.

The SLS AMG GT – Awesome!

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To put it into perspective, the 4.6-litre V8 in the last generation of the Ford Mustang GT produced 315hp and 441Nm of torque!

However, it’s not the power that is the best thing about the A 45. Being a small, lightweight hatchback and all-wheel-drive, the handling is almost supernatural. With the bigger, heavier AMG models the handling is superb, but you do have to exercise a certain measure of caution in order not to end up facing the wrong way. With the A 45 AMG you can throw it around with the wanton abandon of a 17 year-old boy racer, and it’ll take it all and ask for more.

The turn-in is amazingly responsive, even at hairy speeds, and if you’re going a bit too fast, the all-wheel-drive will reign in your stupidity without fuss. Once you hit the apex you can plant the gas pedal and power out of the corner with a guaranteed smile on your face. And the stopping power is enough to make your eyes bulge out of your sockets.

I hesitate to say user-friendly, but the A 45 AMG would be an amazingly rewarding car even for someone with a minor amount of skill. An absolute hoot!

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again — this is probably the hottest hatch ever made.

The star From one end of the spectrum right to the other, the absolute star of the show would, of course, be the SLS AMG GT. Aside from looking utterly beautiful, this is a car you could never spend enough time in.

It was actually slightly heart-rending to climb out of it after each driving exercise. That delicious rumble of the 6.2-litre V8 will have you blipping the throttle just for the hell of it. Over and over again!

The GT is a more powerful strain of the standard SLS AMG, with power boosted to 591hp and 650Nm of torque. And being naturally-aspirated, all of that power is delivered instantly for jaw-dropping rates of acceleration. The 100km/h mark is topped in just 3.7 seconds, and you will have a lot of fun finding that out for yourself.

And although it feels like a big car with that long, sweeping bonnet, it is still superbly agile. Though we were told in no uncertain terms that switching off the electronic stability control would result in our ejection from the event, even with it on there are massive thrills to be had. With a slight amount of oversteer and a rearward power bias from the all-wheel-drive system, there’s still scope for a little sideways action if you’re so inclined! And inclined we were…

The A 45 AMG – the hottest hatch ever made?

However, on an F1 circuit, lined up alongside such illustrious company, the E 63 was completely overshadowed. After hours of hard driving a strange vibration began to permeate the cabin at high speeds, and the car began to feel decidedly wobbly under braking. On corners you could feel the all-wheel-drive system reaching to its very depths to keep this big sedan in shape, and there simply wasn’t the nimble precision and driving pleasure you felt with cars like the C 63 and even the SL 63. One couldn’t help but walk away with the impression that this simply wasn’t what this car was built for.

Overall though, as first experiences of AMG performance go, it simply doesn’t get any better than the AMG Performance Tour.

We are officially indoctrinated!

To experience the AMG range for yourself, visit the Al Haddad Motors showroom, the official distributor for Mercedes-Benz in the Kingdom.

On the Yas Marina Drag Strip

Mentions…

An honourable mention goes to the SL 63 AMG. While the SL is much more of a GT than a track performance machine, on the circuit it honestly felt comparable to the SLS AMG in terms of speed. This is thanks to the monstrously powerful 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 putting out 537hp and 800Nm of torque.

And a dishonourable mention goes to the E 63 AMG, though we write this with a heavy heart, because it is by no means a bad car. If you want a large, comfortable and powerful family sedan which will eat miles and miles of highway in absolute splendour and comfort, then the E 63 AMG will tick every box you can think of.

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January 2014 87

motoringfeature

BTM at the Dubai Motor Show

Tony Sidgwick Last November Bahrain This Month jetted off to Dubai for one of the most prestigious motor shows in the world. This is what we saw…

With the kind of spending power that the GCC has, and being one of the fastest growing regions in the world, international motoring brands take the Dubai International Motor Show very seriously. So, we were treated to several global and regional unveils, some one-of-a-kind concepts, and some of the most exclusive sports and luxury models to be found anywhere in the world.

But that wasn’t all. For the first time this year, alongside the motor how hosted the Dubai Grand Parade, where private owners were invited to bring their super cars, classic cars, muscle cars and custom cars to a big parade down Sheikh Zayed Road. Unfortunately, due to the seeming lack of common sense with regards to the general public and staying off a busy six-lane highway, the parade turned into a bit of a fiasco.

However, once all the cars had made it to the post-parade gallery, spectators were treated to one of the most impressive collections of automotive exotica you’d find anywhere in the world.

Hybrids This seemed to be the word on everyone’s lips at the show, not least of all in the various new models and concepts that were being unveiled. While hybrids don’t really have much of a place in the oil-rich Gulf, elsewhere in the world — Europe and the US especially — they’re hugely important, and this is why they’re important to the industry as a whole.

One of the biggest hybrid launches was the BMW i8, a concept made reality. With a combination of BMW TwinPower

88 January 2014

Turbo and BMW eDrive technology, as well as intelligent energy management, the total output of the i8 stands at 362hp and a maximum torque of 570Nm. This translates to a 0-100 km/h time of just 4.4 seconds, and a fuel consumption of only 2.5 litres per 100 km!

Also turning out in force with the hybrids were Lexus, who showcased their entire hybrid line-up, with the LSh, GSh, RXh and CTh, all featuring Lexus Hybrid Drive, a technology developed solely by Lexus for use in its range of luxury vehicles.

However, it was Porsche that went all-out by launching their E-Mobility product line with the unveiling of their plug-in Panamera Hybrid. All the Porsche staff were decked out in the grey and green of the Porsche E-Mobility corporate colours, and the Panamera was dutifully plugged into a normal power socket on the stand via the special E-Mobility adapter. While there has been a Cayenne hybrid before, it differs from this Panamera in that it can’t be plugged into normal power sockets.

A notable hybrid absent from the Porsche stand, however, was the record-breaking Porsche 918, although that isn’t part of the E-Mobility range either.

The Chinese invasion The Chinese are beginning to make serious moves in the automotive world, overwhelming markets with sheer production numbers and low-cost prices, if not perhaps in quality or ingenuity. Chinese brands turned out in force at the show, practically annexing a whole hall to themselves with some of the biggest displays at the event.

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DongFeng Motors “Hummer”

Mercedes AMG G Class 6x6

Perhaps most notable was the Dongfeng Motor Corporation’s EQ2050, pictured here. Look familiar? Yes, we thought so too.

So, we asked if the production of this vehicle had been carried out in partnership with any other vehicle manufacturer.

“No.” So they hadn’t bought the production rights off of any other brand?

“No.” So, this is a totally original design?

“Yes, totally original.”

Ok…

high-school technology class’s version of the next Batmobile.

Named the Devel Sixteen, due to having sixteen cylinders, it was designed and built entirely in Dubai, and in true Dubai fashion, they’re claiming some record-breaking performance figures: 0-100km/h in two seconds, and a top speed of 560km/h, thanks to a 5,000hp engine!

However, having taken a closer look at the flimsy-looking bodywork and terrible build quality, it looked like it would fly to pieces long before it hit 100km/h. However, we hate to be cynics, so let’s wait for more information on this one.

Newsworthy mentions Drawing a huge crowd at the Mercedes stand was the AMG G Wagen 6x6, their monstrous six-wheeled version of their quintessential and much-loved (especially in the Gulf) off-road.

It seems the concept was largely developed and tested on the sand dunes of Dubai, and on more than one occasion they had to politely refuse the advances of very important sheikhs who “Must have it! Right now! Name your price!”

However, now the vehicle has gone into limited production, the most important of said sheikhs will be able to lay their hands on one.

Also worthy of mention was a stand tucked away in a corner of one of the halls displaying what can only be described as a

The Dubai Police However, last, but certainly not least, were the Dubai Traffic Police. Not to be outdone by any of the high-end brands at the show, they were out in force, and their presence was frankly staggering. Their Lamborghini Aventador has already lit up blogs and social media across the world, but it seems that this is only the tip of the iceberg.

Police forces using hot cars for promotional purposes are nothing new; the UK traffic police have employed everything from Lotuses to the mighty Ford RS2000, and the Italian police are no stranger to the odd Lamborghini or Ferrari. However, each police force generally tends to use brands made in their home country, and it’s only every once in a while.

Dubai, however, has no restrictions. Having no domestic automotive industry to speak of, they simply buy whatever they fancy, and seemingly having no budget restrictions to speak of either.

For the police in Dubai whatever they fancy means the following: Lamborghini Aventador; Mercedes SL55 AMG; Mercedes SLS AMG; Brabus 700 Widestar G Wagen; Audi R8 V10; BMW M6 Gran Coupe; Ferrari FF; Nissan GTR; Bentley Continental GT; and finally, a Ford Mustang GT Jack Roush Edition.

And we were assured that they are all fully functioning vehicles of the Dubai Traffic Police. We can’t help but feel that it’s just a little bit over the top…

Dubai Police Brabus 700 WIDESTAR

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E Visit www.motoringGCC.com.

For a full review of the Dubai International Motor Show, simply use you mobile phone or tablet device to take a snap of the QR code above.

January 2014 89

motoring2014models

New Year, New Models From tiny compacts to mighty SUVs, from American muscle to German luxury, we’ve got it all coming in 2014!

It has been a huge year for new model releases, with countless stunning cars unveiled over the course of 2013 for the 2014 model year. Read on for our round-up of what to expect to see hitting the showroom floors this year, by dealership…

A.A. Bin Hindi (Kia) From Kia, we’ve seen the launch of the Cerato Koup, a very important launch for the brand. The three-model Cerato family is their most successful in the range, so they’re expecting big things from the attractive sporty version.

Also revamped for 2014 is the Optima which features new headlights, front grille, fog lamps, rear lights, bumpers and alloy wheels.

Ahmed Zayani & Sons (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Bentley) From Chrysler, the 2014 300 SRT boasts 6.4l HEMI V8 putting out 470hp 637Nm of torque, with three suspension modes — Auto, Sport and Track — and launch control.

Jeep have been busy bees of late, coming out with one allnew and two revamped models for your perusal. The 2014 Cherokee, Jeep’s mid-size SUV has undergone a huge makeover, with an all-new design differing completely from the previous generations. It also boasts a new nine-speed automatic, and a new front-wheel-drive configuration with three four-wheel-drive systems to select from.

Feature

90 January 2014

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee has undergone minor changes, with subtle exterior enhancements and improve technology inside improving off-road capability and fuel economy. The new Grand Cherokee SRT8 boasts a new eight-speed automatic giving a more refined drive and improved efficiency, and the 2014 model now comes with launch control and SRT Performance Pages on the touchscreen driver interface.

Also new for 2014 are the Dodge Challenger, Challenger SRT, Charger and Charger SRT. Both the Challenger and the Charger are reincarnations of classic American muscle cars, and both boast identical engine options, such as the awesome 470hp 6.4-litre HEMI V8 in the SRT models.

On the SUV side, the Dodge Durango, the brand’s full-size three-row SUV, has been face-lifted for 2014; but, the main change is the efficient eight-speed automatic that is exclusive in this class.

The 2014 Bentley Flying Spur, with its awe-inspiring 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine, is the fastest and most powerful four-door Bentley ever made, and now can operate its own Wi-Fi hotspot to keep you connected as you’re chauffeured round.

This year also sees the arrival of the special edition Mulsanne Shaheen, created especially for this region, with exclusive embroidered seats boasting Arabic calligraphy.

93 x Cadillac - 94 x Kia - 95 x Lincoln - 96 x Toyota - 97 x Bentley - 98 x Nissan - 99 x BMW

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Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) Launched by Mercedes for the coming year is the sports version of their superb little hatchback, the A 45 AMG, which features the most powerful production four-cylinder engine in the world, boasting 450hp! Turn to page 86 for our review of the A 45.

AMG are also bringing us their version of Mercedes’s top-end model, the S 63 AMG, which we’ve also been lucky enough to take a look at, and can confirm that it is a truly awesome machine!

Almoayyed Motors (Ford) The 2014 Ford Fusion boasts a completely revamped look and package, including segment leading driver assistance and convenience technologies based on sensors, cameras and radar that enable the car to see and respond.

And a completely new model is coming from Ford this year too. The EcoSport is their all-new economy model that is built in India, and represents Ford’s most affordable offering.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo (Toyota and Lexus) The Corolla, one of Toyota’s most successful models, enjoys an all-new look this year, coming with added technologies to improve driver enjoyment, including an all-new 2.0l engine.

The 2014 Lexus GX model gets the signature spindle-grille for a more distinctive appearance, and the change is also functional thanks to the addition of LEDs for the headlamps, daytime running lights and fog lamps.

The new Lexus LX features a unique Sport edition creating a distinct look for the luxury SUV, with front and rear bumper spoilers and fog lamp bezel. While the 2014 Lexus GS features a new 8-speed automatic transmission offering quicker shifts, new interior and exterior colours with styling enhancements.

With the recently launched new generation Lexus IS, every aspect of the vehicle has been engineered with a renewed focus on engaging performance, agile handling, accurate response to driver input and highly communicative feedback.

Euro Motors (BMW, Maserati, Jaguar and Land Rover) From BMW, the all-new 4 Series replaces the BMW 3 Series Coupe, and represents the first step in a redesignation of BMW model numbers, with even numbers representing Coupes, and odd numbers being given to sedans.

Range Rover Sport

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Mercedes S 63 AMG

Also new for 2014 is the third generation BMW X5, which now comes with an optional third row offering seven seats for the first time in the model’s history!

An exciting all-new model from Maserati made the rounds of all the motor shows last year. The Ghibli is now the entrylevel model for the brand’s range, offering the brand’s luxury, style and driving dynamics in a compact sedan package.

Another all-new model that has the motoring world buzzing, the Jaguar F-Type is the gorgeous two-seater sports car from the British luxury brand, coming with two engine choices: Jaguar’s new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine in 335hp and 375hp outputs and its 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol producing 488hp.

Featuring a more highly tuned version of the same V8 is the new full-size sports sedan the Jaguar XJR, which boasts 542hp and 680Nm of torque. We’ll take both please!

There have been big things happening at the British maker of luxury SUVs, Land Rover, with the revamped luxury CUV, the 2014 Range Rover Evoque, hitting the market late last year.

Also new for 2014 is the Land Rover LR4, with a new highly efficient 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine replacing the 5.0-litre V8.

However, the hottest news for the brand was the launch of the all-new Range Rover Sport, which takes its place alongside the all-new Range Rover which was launched early last year.

BMW 4 Series

January 2014 91

motoring2014models iconic Stingray marque, and a stunning looking offering to boot, which will boast up to 460hp and 630Nm of torque.

Also new for 2014 is Chevrolet’s compact SUV, the Trax, the Silverado and luxury Silverado High Country pick-up trucks, and Chevrolet’s muscle car, the Camaro.

Another 2015 model hitting showroom floors in 2014 is one of the region’s most popular models for Chevrolet, the Tahoe full size SUV, which boasts improved levels of safety, comfort, quietness and fuel efficiency.

And the last of the 2015 models to come from GMC, the 2015 Yukon will deliver greater capability and refinement, with more power, new fold-flat rear seats and a quieter interior. And thanks to a new family of advanced EcoTec3 engines, the lineup is expected to deliver the segment’s best V8 performance and fuel economy.

Hyundai Centennial Limousine

First Motors (Hyundai) Hyundai have made big moves into the premium segment as of late, not least with the launch of their 2014 Centennial and Centennial Limousine, which offer levels of luxury to rival Japanese and European counterparts at a significantly lower cost.

Also coming this year is an exciting new version of their stylish hatchback, the Veloster Turbo, which boasts a 1.6litre Turbo GDI engine, capable of producing a maximum of 204hp and 265Nm of torque. And finally, the revamped 2014 Tucson is being offered with an improved powertrain and additional features.

International Motor Trading Agency (Mazda) Unveiled recently for the 2014 model year, the all-new compact Mazda3 boasts Mazda’s award-winning ‘KODO Soul of Motion’ design and cutting-edge SKY ACTIV Technology line-up of ultra-efficient, lightweight engines.

It’s the third member of the brand’s model range to be launched with the new look and technology, after the 2014 Mazda6 mid-size sedan, and the 2014 Mazda CX-5, both hugely successful models.

National Motor Company (Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC) The new range of Cadillac models now boasts the brand’s efficient new eight-speed automatic gearbox. The 2014 version of their midsize luxury sedan, the Cadillac CTS, is now built using lighter materials, and has been carefully constructed to offer a 50/50 weight distribution.

The XTS, Cadillac’s full-size luxury sedan, now features a highly efficient twin turbo V6 that still offers lots of power — 410hp, to be exact. And although this is a 2014 models feature, the 2015 Cadillac Escalade, their hugely popular full-size luxury SUV, will be hitting showroom floors in mid to late 2014, so it still counts!

The biggest news from Chevrolet is the arrival of the 2014 Corvette Stingray, a bold and exciting new revival of the

92 January 2014

Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons (Nissan and Infiniti) The big news from Nissan was the global unveiling of the revamped 2014 Nissan Patrol at the 2013 Dubai International Motor Show. Demonstrating Nissan’s investment in one of their biggest markets for the Patrol, the changes are largely cosmetic in nature, with the vehicle being much the same underneath.

Also for 2014, the 370Z Roadster, the convertible version of Nissan’s iconic coupe, takes its place alongside its hardtop brother, boasting the same fantastic 328hp 3.7-litre V6 engine.

The all-new Infiniti Q50 enjoyed its Middle East debut at the 2013 Dubai Motor Show, which replaces the former G Sedan. However, the model designation for the whole range is being revamped for 2014, with car models having the prefix ‘Q’, and the CUVs and SUVs being given the prefix ‘QX’.

So, the G Coupe is now the Q60, the M Sedan is now the Q70, the EX is the QX50, the JX is now the QX60, the QX70 replaces the FX, and finally, the original big daddy of the range, the QX, is now the QX80.

Zayani Motors (Mitsubishi) The Attrage is Mitsubishi’s next-generation global subcompact sedan launched for the first time in the Gulf in 2013. It is powered by a 1.2-litre MIVEC engine with an impressive 21km per litre economy figure.

And for 2014 Outlander has been redesigned from the ground up, featuring all-new premium surfaces such as a softtouch instrument panel, available wood grain trim and a choice of fuel-efficient MIVEC engines along with the innovative new ECO Drive Assist System.

Corvette Stingray

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Cadillac SRX

NATIONAL MOTOR COMPANY

Revolutionary Technology This new Cadillac pushes the boundaries of innovative technology for passenger comfort and safety.

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The new Cadillac SRX luxury crossover introduces technology and design enhancements headlined by CUE (Cadillac User Experience), the in-vehicle user experience that incorporates touch-screen controls similar to the most popular mobile devices.

Interior and exterior design updates further distinguish the new SRX, while active noise cancellation technology helps provide a quieter driving experience. Since its redesign in 2009, the SRX has established a strong visual signature for Cadillac in the luxury crossover segment. This latest model refines that appearance with a new design for the front upper and lower grilles that conveys greater depth and the brand’s attention to detail. The front fender vents are new and incorporate LED light pipes.

The SRX is the latest vehicle to incorporate Cadillac’s ‘control and alert’ strategy that employs advanced technologies — including radar, cameras and ultrasonic sensors — to help prevent crashes. The safety features are part of Cadillac’s new Driver Awareness and Driver Assist technology packages.

These include Cadillac’s safety alert seat technology, automatic front and rear braking, adaptive cruise control and more, using radar and other technologies to help avoid collisions.

The car seats five and delivers generous occupant and cargo room, wrapped in the dramatic and signature Cadillac style that has pushed the brand back to the top of the world’s luxury manufacturer ranks. The SRX is offered in Luxury and Premium, with all-wheel drive offered on the Premium model. CUE is standard on the SRX as is the brand’s new design and technical

breakthrough for intuitive in-vehicle control and connectivity.

CUE pairs entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players with a vehicle infotainment system that reduces complexity through customised information and fewer buttons and larger icons. The comprehensive, in-vehicle experience is designed to be unique for each consumer, from the simple user to the fully connected super user.

The heart of CUE is the vibrant, eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen — with proximity sensing and haptic feedback — that is seamlessly integrated in the top of the central instrument panel. The system displays its home page, which resembles a smart phone’s screen, with large, easy-to-target icons that execute commands. Capacitive technology on the screen and faceplate enables consumers to use the same swipe, pinch or spread gestures common to most popular smartphones and tablets.

All models are powered by a direct-injected 3.6-litre V-6 rated at an SAE-certified 308 hp and 358 Nm of torque. The engine is matched with the Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission, which features a driver-selectable eco feature that alters the shift points for improved fuel economy in normal driving conditions.

The National Motors showroom is located in Sitra and you can contact the dealer to arrange for your own test drive.

E Call 17 457-212.

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KIA MOTORS

A New Look Having seen a sea of change in sales figures in recent years, the Kia brand manager speaks on the Kia growth.

John Joseph

With 20 years of expertise in the automotive industry, John Joseph (JJ) aims to catapult Kia into the top three vehicle brands in the Kingdom. He speaks to us about the investment that has gone into the revamping of the Kia Motors showroom in Khamis.

BTM: Tell us about the refreshed outlet.

JJ: To begin with, this is one of the first digital showrooms in Bahrain. This means that every customer can view the specifications, performance videos and other details of a specific Kia model at the touch of a button on any of the screens provided in the showroom. Making the experience more personal is the ability to compare and contrast the features with other cars on the market. We have also installed a huge digital wall that displays our latest products and promotions.

The revamp is consistent with Kia’s corporate identity. This makes the Bahrain branch one of the first in the Middle East to follow the ‘Red Cube’ design space identity set by Kia Motors.

BTM: Which new models can Bahrain’s customers look forward to seeing in the refurbished showroom?

JJ: We’re expecting a facelift for the Sportage. There will be an all-new Soul, a model that has been working wonders in North America. This unique, value for money product has done well with our younger clientele as well as with the expatriate community. Customers can look forward to Cerato and Carens models that will be launched featuring new configurations.

94 January 2014

BTM: How do you target Bahrain’s auto market?

JJ: At Kia Motors, we aim to tackle niche markets. So while we have a certain range that is price-motivated, we have others that focus on families.

For instance, the Rio has established itself as the car of choice for a new driver. It is a common choice in the rental car segment and amongst corporate sales executives. Optima, on the other hand, is for the stylish driver.

Winning awards since its launch, this model not only looks good but also performs well. It is very popular amongst female drivers too.

One of our best kept secrets is our success in the four-wheel drive segment. You can find a Sportage in every parking lot; the resale value is unbelievable.

BTM: What is the attraction of Kia Motors?

JJ: Most automobile companies buy extended warranty from a third-party supplier, which is more often a profitoriented firm.

We have increased warranty directly through Kia’s factory; so, a customer that visits our service centre regularly is entitled to the five-year unlimited mileage warranty.

The administrator helps the customer immediately as there is no third party involved and there is no confusion caused by calling a middle person who might look for loopholes in your agreement.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ALMOAYYED MOTORS

A New Future The new Lincoln MKZ heralds a new era for design and technology in the Lincoln range of premium vehicles.

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The all-new Lincoln MKZ made its debut last month in Bahrain at a special reveal event hosted by Almoayyed Motors, the local Ford and Lincoln importer-dealer, marking a key milestone in the Lincoln brand’s reinvention. The first vehicle from the dedicated Lincoln Design Studio, the MKZ signifies the introduction of the reinvented Lincoln brand, which will focus on attracting a new body of premium automotive customers.

“We are thrilled to debut a new Lincoln era for our customers here in Bahrain starting with the all-new MKZ,” says Sandeep Mathur, general manager at Almoayyed Motors. “We are confident that this new model will set the benchmark and standards of what luxury customers can expect from Lincoln moving forward. Our intention is to bring a whole new ownership experience to Lincoln owners, starting with truly unique features and technologies that elevate the driving experience.”

The all-new MKZ enters the midsize luxury segment with a raft of new offerings. It is the first Lincoln created by a dedicated team in its new Lincoln Design Studio. With a sweeping profile, MKZ incorporates one of the world’s widestopening retractable glass roofs. The retractable panoramic roof, a new signature feature for Lincoln, offers one of the

largest openings available on any current sedan.

It also boasts Lincoln Driver Control, which is an intelligent system that delivers a refined ride and engaging driving dynamics. Standard Lincoln Drive Control intuitively integrates multiple systems (engine, transmission, body and chassis) to deliver totally new Lincoln driving quality.

The MKZ comes with a 3.7-litre V6 that produces significantly more power than the previous model while improving fuel economy approximately five per cent. The SUV also utilises a six-speed automatic transmission, while paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel add to the performance driving experience.

Improving grip on slippery roads, the available all-wheel-drive system anticipates and adjusts the power delivery to the front and rear axles in as little as 16 milliseconds, faster than the blink of an eye.

Standard amenities include an 11-speaker audiophile entertainment system and cabin air filtration, plus heated front seats (with the driver’s featuring 10-way power controls), remote start capabilities and Active Noise Control.

E Call 17 737-373.

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motoring

EBRAHIM K. KANOO

Stand Out Performer A new generation of one of the most popular compact cars to ever come out of Japan was unveiled in Bahrain last month.

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With 47 years of success and more than 40 million sales in the world behind it, the popularity of the Corolla speaks for itself.

The latest generation reflects a bolder and more dynamic vehicle that will redefine consumer perceptions about this iconic sedan.

“The all new Toyota Corolla’s contemporary design reveals an elegant and sportier image,” commented Ayman Shehadeh, marketing manager at Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the exclusive distributor for Toyota and lexus in Kingdom, at the launch event.

“Equipped with improved driving dynamics, enhanced utility and comfort features the new Corolla offers class leading convenience. The extensive safety systems reinforce Toyota’s commitment to passenger safety at all times.”

With the adoption of LED lights, the front design reflects a strong presence and a high quality feel. In terms of the rear design, the flow of the rear license garnish, rear combination lamps, and character line are seamlessly connected, enhancing a wide feel and a stance with a low centre of gravity. A body colour line-up ensures high product appeal through seven exterior body colours.

The 2014 Corolla’s interior matches the visual impact of the exterior and adds a new level of refinement. The passenger cabin features a clean, horizontally oriented dash panel design that adds to the interior’s sense of spaciousness. The instrument panel and surrounding areas are finished in premium materials.

The new car comes with two engine variants: a four-cylinder 1.6-litre in-line twin cam and a 2.0-litre four cylinder, in-line twin cam. Both boast a 16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-I and electronic fuel injection.

A smart entry and start system enables the driver to lock and unlock doors and start the engine, simply by carrying the key. An engine immobiliser system which prevents engine start without an authorized key has been adopted to prevent vehicle theft.

The brake booster characteristics have been changed to enhance the brake feeling. The Brake Control System has Antilock Brake System with Electronic Brake Force Distribution to ensure vehicle stability during braking. To help reduce the impact of a collision on occupants, the Corolla is equipped with SRS airbags for the driver and front passenger.

There’s also an advanced audio system that provides excellent sound quality with enhanced functions for convenience through four or six speaker configurations and USB/AUX ports.

The new Corolla is available with four-year (150,000km) warranty together with other benefits that Ebrahim K. Kanoo offers to the Toyota customers in Bahrain.

For more information visit the Toyota showroom in Sitra or visit www.facebook.com/Toyotabahrain.

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AHMED ZAYANI & SONS

Luxury and Power

The fastest and most powerful four-door Bentley model ever, the new Flying Spur brings even more comfort and refinement.

Bentley has established a new luxury performance sedan benchmark with the launch of the breathtaking new Flying Spur, with an unrivalled blend of effortless driveability, exquisite luxury and craftsmanship. Together with the sculpted design and state-of-the-art technology, the new Flying Spur takes the worldwide success of its iconic predecessor further.

Bentley’s styling team has developed an athletic design for the new model that combines traditional brand styling cues with a sporting stance and contemporary details. Sharp feature lines complement muscular rear haunches, while LED daytime running lights, dipped headlights and taillights characterise the front and rear profiles. The interior designers have created a luxurious, spacious cabin that dresses advanced acoustic and electronic technologies in exquisite hand-crafted leather hides and wood veneers.

The Driver and passengers interface with the car and the outside world through touch-screen infotainment. Mobile connectivity, including Wi-Fi, a rear seat entertainment suite and a new hand-held touch screen remote, allows rear-cabin occupants to control an extensive range of features from the comfort of their seat.

An eight-channel, eight-speaker audio system with balanced mode radiators provide high quality sound clarity, with the 1,100W Naim for Bentley premium system available as an option.

Powerful elegance Powering the new Flying Spur is Bentley’s renowned 6.0-litre, twin turbo W12 engine, coupled to a ZF eight-speed transmission. Developing 616hp and 800Nm of torque, the car

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features more power than any other four-door Bentley in history.

A 14 per cent improvement in the power-to-weight ratio over the outgoing model delivers a breath-taking 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds and a top-speed of 200mph. In the modern Bentley tradition, power is delivered to the road via all-wheel drive with a 40:60 rear-biased torque split for a sure-footed, engaging drive in all road and weather conditions.

“Bentley’s new Flying Spur is the ultimate luxury performance sedan,” notes Jeff Barrett, general manager at Ahmed Zayani & Sons, the exclusive dealer for Bentley in the Kingdom.

“Bentley engineers have worked tirelessly to ensure that the Flying Spur is the perfect combination of power, comfort, refinement and hand crafted quality.”

Fitted with the very latest technology, the new Flying Spur is equipped both for business and relaxation while remaining a car to enjoy from behind the wheel.

Mulliner options Customers wishing to extend the range of available options further can choose to include the Mulliner driving specification.

This includes five additional hides, expanding the number of available shades to 17, and five further wood veneers.

Bentley’s traditional diamond quilting is incorporated to the seats and door panels, together with an indented leather headlining and embroidered Bentley wings to the headrests.

Drilled alloy foot pedals, a knurled sports gear lever, jewel filler cap and 21-inch two-piece five-spoke alloy wheels in painted or polished finish complete the Mulliner suite of options.

E Call 17 238-822.

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motoring

Y.K. ALMOAYYED & SONS

Evolution of an Icon Though it’s hard to believe, Nissan’s iconic sports car has been improved even further for the 2014 model year.

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Evolution never stops for the Nissan GT-R. The brand’s halo sports car, which is a successor to the legendary Skyline GT-R, was reincarnated in 2007. On launch it instantly made waves in the automotive industry for its exceptional levels of performance.

In October 2012, the GT-R broke its old record with a time of 7:18 seconds, making it the ninth fastest ever production car to lap the infamous Nürburgring.

The GT-R underwent a minor facelift in 2011, and is now being improved again for 2014. The new model offers smoother ride comfort, more refinement and benchmark fit and finish, while still delivering breathtaking levels of performance.

There have been several improvements made to the chassis that have increased the performance and ride comfort. To begin with, the suspension was fine-tuned to reduced load fluctuation between the four wheels, giving better stability and more consistent grip.

More constant tyre contact is achieved by optimised electronic control of the shock-absorber valves, as well as modified front stabilizer spring rates and updated bush link.

The tuning of these parts, which makes best use of the suspension strokes and enhances road-holding capability, gives a poised, confident ride and outstanding traction on rough roads. In addition, the braking calibration has been retuned for a more firm, linear response at everyday speeds. Braking is

more intuitive and smoother, generating greater confidence, particularly in wet conditions.

Each part of the chassis is made of materials selected for optimum performance. The precision-constructed, multimaterial hybrid body combines steel, carbon fibre and die-cast aluminium to achieve high stiffness and light weight.

Thanks to the rigidity of the GT-R’s body construction, suspension precision is guaranteed while refinement is enhanced, resulting in exceptional cabin refinement even at high speeds and under hard cornering.

And finally, the GT-R’s steering has been fine-tuned to reduce the effort required for in-town manoeuvres, while maintaining its exceptional feedback during high-speed driving. The combination of retuned suspension and exceptional steering feel give outstanding confidence at high speeds.

The refinements continue on the interior of the car as well.

There is now a choice of three interior colour schemes, which includes a new pale ivory trim option.

The steering wheel is trimmed in leather, for premium tactility, while the part-aniline leather seats are further embellished with stitched accents, giving the ambience of a genuine GT designed for cross-continental, first-class travel.

Overall, all these elements have combined to make an already superb sports car even better.

E Call 17 732-732.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

EURO MOTORS

Power and Style With a sportier look and a more spacious interior, the latest version of BMW’s hugely popular Sports Activity Vehicle has arrived on the island, to the delight of BMW fans.

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Euro Motors, the official BMW Group importer in the Kingdom, has welcomed the all-new BMW X5, a pioneer of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment and global market leader in its class.

Fitted with the sporty ‘M’ body kit, the all-new BMW X5 offers more space, comfort, power and functionality. The new model is poised to deliver even more driving pleasure to discerning customers in Bahrain.

“The BMW X5 has been the pinnacle in the SAV Segment for more than a decade,” commented Paul Yates, Euro Motors general manager at the launch event. “Building on the strong base by previous models, while simultaneously improving comfort, design, performance and power, the new X5 is certain to be a success in Bahrain.”

Since its inception, the BMW X5 has been the a market leader in the SAV segment, and one of BMW’s best-selling model series accounting for almost a third of all BMW models sold globally.

This third generation vehicle will once again set new standards with its evolutionary design features, spacious interior and increased driving comfort. In addition, for the first time, the X5 will be available with a choice of new suspension packages. These include the Adaptive Suspension Comfort, Dynamic, Professional and Adaptive M Suspension, all of which provides further enhanced ride comfort.

BMW Twin Power Turbo technology and additional BMW

EfficientDynamics features ensure that the new BMW X5 is faster and more efficient than ever. Under the bonnet sits a newly enhanced engine variant and the xDrive50i with a new generation of the V8 petrol engine delivers 450hp, ten per cent more power than its predecessor.

The Driving Experience Control switch is fitted as standard with Comfort, Dynamic and Professional adaptive suspension packages. The Adaptive M suspension can be specified to enhance the car’s sporty handling properties and ride comfort.

Inside the redesigned exterior of the X5 is a more luxurious interior environment with a selection of high quality leather and trims available, atmospheric lighting options and increased spaciousness. Due to the model’s 3.2cm extended wheelbase, the cockpit now plays host to a newly raised seating position.

The striking horizontal lines now extend into the door trim and noticeably enhance the interior.

In addition, an optional third row of seats will turn the X5 into a seven-seater for the first time in the model’s history.

E Call 17 750-750.

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reportinsurance&savings

In Search of Security All our working lives we strive to build a solid financial foundation that can be counted on in old age. It’s only when the unexpected happens that we discover how well prepared we were.

Everyone will agree that it’s much easier to put money aside in this part of the world than it ever will be back in our native lands. As we work hard to fulfil some long-term objectives, be it the education of our children, a marriage, or a retirement corpus, it’s wise to remember that we also need to insulate ourselves from the unexpected.

This month, we highlight some of the best insurance and promotional saving schemes available from established and local institutions in Bahrain. However, before you invest, you need to ascertain and analyse your needs. A realistic assessment of your risk appetite as well as your knowledge and experience in investment products will help define your approach to investing.

If you are new to this sphere, it’s advisable that you seek the help of a qualified investment planner.

Building wealth Whatever your investment goal is, such as the purchase of house, a dream car, a daughter’s wedding or a holiday, there is

Also this month

a wealth accumulation plan for you. MetLife Alico Super Saver is a versatile wealth accumulation plan that provides a wide choice of investment options across different asset classes.

BBK’s Wealth Secura is a single pay savings and insurance plan with a focus on saving for the future and on maximising returns.

You could also opt for Family Secura, a savings plan which offers higher protection limits to customers and their families.

Children’s education plans Citibank relationship professionals can create for you a personalised and secure education plan that will safeguard your child’s future while giving you peace of mind.

Bnl’s future education plan ensures a disciplined and regular saving habit, which will act as a buffer. So even if you are put out of action due to disability or early demise, the saving strategy will still be achievable. The plan provides coverage on a joint life or single life basis, including guaranteed investment returns designed to finance the high cost of education fees for the future needs of your children.

104 x Citibank - 105 x Mednet

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reportinsurance&savings Auto insurance Motor insurance is compulsory across the region and as such, there are many players in the market offering the standard set of services. The trick here is to choose an insurer who offers more value and easy access.

AXA, the largest non-life international insurer in the region offers quick and affordable car insurance. If you are a careful and experienced driver, this is insurance plan for you. The insurer offers up to 50 per cent discount if you can prove that you are a claims-free driver. AXA also offers value added covers and services, such as priority repair service and service guarantees along with the insurance policies. bni offers a comprehensive range of motor insurance covers that are quick and convenient to access. The insurer’s quick renewal system with a secure payment gateway works equally well on smart devices and computers.

Insuring the future Bnl’s Future Security Plan provides not only a guaranteed sum assured to protect your family, but also provides a good return on your savings over the long term. As well as providing coverage on your life, there are guaranteed investment returns to help finance a retirement.

Futura, from Zurich International Life, is an innovative life insurance policy which accommodates changes to your benefits as the circumstances of your life change. With Futura, you have the flexibility to add critical illness coverage, accident insurance protection or income protection to your cover.

Health cover The rising cost of healthcare is likely to place a great burden on your finances unless your health cover offers a reasonable level of protection.

Depending on where you live, travel to, or wish to receive treatment, AXA has developed a range of seven Health Perfect plan options, with local, regional and international cover to suit a variety of personal requirements. This plan includes valuable additional benefits such as worldwide emergency medical assistance, personal accident cover and a telephone support ‘wellbeing’ service.

Munich Health’s MedNet brand has been in the market for over 20 years, working with medical providers, health insurance companies, self-funded groups and government health plans.

The insurer draws on a network of clinics and medical doctors under contract to ensure high healthcare standards at manageable costs.

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Mutual funds Mutual funds are a smart and convenient way to invest.

Whatever your long-term goals, there are thousands of professionally managed mutual funds to suit your risk profile.

With Citibank, you can pick funds across diverse asset classes, including US equities, emerging market equities, global equities, Global Bonds, high yield bonds, Sharia’ Compliant Islamic equities, Middle East equities and many more.

There are a wide range of mutual funds from reputed investment houses, such as Alliance Bernstein, Blackrock, DWS, Fidelity, Franklin Templeton, Invesco, ING, JP Morgan, MFS, Permal, Pioneer and Schroders to choose from, depending on your horizon.

Investors looking to invest in Indian markets can consult with the NRI service desk at State Bank of India for investing in SBI Mutual funds.

Retirement planning The MetLife Alico Income for Life plan offered by Citibank is a unique pension plan with a fixed premium paying term of only five years. You can choose to start regular pension whenever you want and this income is guaranteed by Metlife Alico for at least 20 years.

Standard Chartered Bank’s Retirement Plan offers bonuses to ensure that your overall returns on the savings are higher. You can add protection against total disability or death so that your loved ones receive the full benefit of your savings.

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reportinsurance&savings

CITIBANK

Save Early for College Are you worried about funding the higher education of your children?

Remember, it always pays to plan ahead.

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The responsibility of raising children is possibly the biggest task anyone can embark on. A crucial component of this challenge is financial, as the costs of housing, healthcare, education and food spiral upwards with each passing year.

However, the one factor that contributes the most to the cost of raising children and remains uppermost in every parent’s mind is college education. Many questions can cross a parent’s mind at the planning stage. Some of these include: When should I start this saving? How much will a child’s education cost? Would I be able to afford to send our children to one of the top schools or colleges? How much should I save?

Each one of these is a valid question from a worried parent, believes Navneet Kampani, Citi Bahrain head of consumer banking. Budgeting for your children’s education beforehand is likely to give them the best start in life, a gift they will always cherish.

“Educational costs are not fixed. What you as a parent paid for your own education will certainly not be the same as what your children will be paying by the time they start college.

Hence, it is essential to plan ahead,” says Navneet.

A disciplined approach is extremely essential to this planning phase. Secondly, and equally important, it is a must to start any savings plan as early as possible. This gives the fund more time to grow or compound, thereby increasing the probability of your children getting the education they deserve.

Essentially, the idea is to build your savings over time by investing a fixed amount on a regular basis. The benefits entail

currency cost averaging, which reduces the overall volatility of your investment portfolio.

Citibank relationship professionals have the expertise to guide you through this task and create a secure education plan that can safeguard your child’s future while providing you peace of mind. To give yourself a head start, think over the points below to discuss when you sit down with your Citibank relationship professional.

For more details and a personalised education plan, contact Citibank’s portfolio counsellor.

E Call 17 562-066.

Critical Questions Consider these questions when thinking about the cost of education: l What could be the potential cost of your child’s education? Have a list of five to seven schools/colleges and ask them for a copy of their fees for the past five years. l What will be an estimate cost for extras? Calculate the cost of housing, books, food, travelling and others. l Have you been keeping a budget? You need to list all incoming money (salary, rental income, property and inheritance and outgoing costs (mortgage payments, bills and pension payments among others).

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MEDNET

Renewing the Pledge Unveiling a new look, MedNet reaffirms its commitment to stakeholders in the health and risk value chain.

The healthcare market today places high demands on insurers and care providers, with calls for quality healthcare, cost containment and access to scientifically advanced medical treatments. To address these needs better, Munich Health has re-launched the MedNet brand. The new look is fresh, contemporary and dynamic, yet reflects the trusted reliability and transparency its services are known.

The relaunch of the MedNet brand goes beyond restyling. It’s part of a strategic renewal process to build on the company’s strengths as a managed care service expert within Munich Health,” says Dr Stefan Reiter, Head of MedNet, MEA. “Combining our in-depth knowledge of the tools and technologies that ensure better healthcare outcomes, we can deliver superior cost containment and outstanding customer satisfaction. “Our drive to serve all stakeholders in healthcare is not only reflected in our new look, but also in our promise to clients, as the preferred choice for healthcare solutions. That’s how we see our role.”

With over 20 years experience in the market, MedNet works with medical providers, health insurance companies, selffunded groups and government health plans. The insurer draws on a network of clinics and medical doctors under contract to ensure high healthcare standards at manageable costs. By monitoring claims and outcomes on an ongoing basis, this helps to plan for the long-term.

In addition to administrative services, the company also provides support in product design, pricing, medical risk evaluation, medical management, healthcare provider management, claims management, training and consulting services. E Call 17 566-175.

Managed health care services designed around you www.mednet-mea.com

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bystanderthismonth

German Ambassador's Reception HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador hosted a concert and Christmas buffet dinner at her residence in Saar last month. HE Sameera Rajab, Minister of State for Information Affairs also attended the event alongwith VIP guests Jalil Al Ansari, HE Sabine Taufmann, HE Sameera Rajab & HE Karim Al Shaker

Tomoko, Mala, Romina & Rocio

Jamal Fakhro & HE Sabine Taufmann

106 January 2014

HE Karim Al Shaker, Sadiq Dawani, Hussain Tadayon, Khalid Kanoo & Dr Tawfiq Almoayed

Meeji, Dr Jihan Al Umran, HE Sabine Taufmann, Dr Dhafer Al Umran & Yu Joonha

Ali & Barbara

HE Sabine Taufmann & Sadiq Dawani

Nabeel Ajoor

Andrea & Hannah

Nour Suliman

Abdul Hameed Kooheji

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Toyota Corolla 2014 Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus in Bahrain, revealed the new Toyota Corolla 2014 at the Toyota Showroom in Sitra

Akio, Khalid Kanoo & Norihiro

The Toyota Corolla 2014

Ali, Said, Samer & Essam

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Ayman Shehadeh, Khalid Kanoo & Isa Kanoo

Abdulaziz & Isa with Ibrahim Kanoo

Alaa, Muntsar & Henry

Yousef & Ibrahim

Suryano & Hani

Ahmed & Abdul Razak

Zaid & Omar

Zubair

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I AM Store Launch Under the patronage of HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador, the Azadea Group held a reception to mark the launch of the I AM store, a German accessory brand. The launch was held at Seef Mall last month

Pierre with HE Sabine Taufmann

Farheen, Randa, Raihana, Marise & Sanhita

Insiyah, Nisha, Ashwathy & Mariam

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Jamal, Fadi, Susan, HE Sabine Taufmann & Pierre

Syed, Raihana & Farid

Zahra, Susan, Cleda & Raihana

Ahmed

Fatima

Tanya

Moosa & Abdulla

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US Ambassador's Festive Reception HE Thomas Krajeski US Ambassador & Bonnie Krajeski hosted a holiday open house reception at their residence in Saar. The event featured a musical performance of seasonal and festive music. Among the guests were diplomats, businessmen, and friends from the local community

Nadia, Sheryl, Bonnie & Carrie

Aseel, Hameed & Bayan

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Panos, Bonnie, HE Thomas Krajeski & Ranya

Nasser Alarayedh, HE Thomas & Bonnie Krajeski

Phil, Elizabeth, Sarah & Carrie

Bonnie, Danny & Aimee

Ahdeya & Hana

Hassa, Guy & Karen

Alena

Faisal Jawad

Jine & Maisa

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The Make-up Maki Experience Maki Restaurant at the World Trade Centre held a reception to introduce the Make-up Maki, a vibrant & colourful dish - a collaboration between Mai Almoayed & Maki.

Mai Almoayed is Bahrain's very own make-up guru, who started the blog "The Make-up Manual"

Mohammed, Joe, Mai Almoayed, Amer & Chef Louis

Amer watches while Chef Louis & Mai assemble the dish

Ahmed & Mai

Winona, Yousif, Basma & Eman

Nadia & Sherine Amer, Chef Louis & Mai with the finished dish

Eman, Amani & Nasreen

110 January 2014

Cara, Marise & Karina

Sara & Mai

Dana, Mai & Nasra

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Pinocchio Pantomime UK's Shakespeare 4 Kidz (S4K) theatre production staged the all-time favourite classic tale of Pinocchio in Bahrain. A Whale of A Tale: Pinocchio the pantomime was held at Bahrain Alumni Club in Adliya

Lili, Cayden, Mathew & Fouzia

Maria, Tajbeh & Fatima

Ad_125x191mm.pdf Omar, Adham & Chloe

Cyril, Amandine, Garance & Delphine

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12/18/13

4:56 PM Luke, Julian & Ben

Gui, Aero, Gady & Nadine

Shaikh Abdulaziz, Murad & Daij

Shafqat, Ayman & Emily

Hannah, Suad & Mohammed

A scene from the pantomime

Aisling & Ali

Oguz & Mehmet

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Everest Staff Party Everest Trading hosted its annual staff party at The Summit, Elite Resort & Spa last month

Hamza, Gemma, Mahdi & Masood

Jessy, Thomas, Jayson, Praveen, Raji & Lordy

Hussain, Elena & Gemma

Dr Aziz with Sadiq Dawani

Mila, Gladys, Jenet, Gemma, Juvy, Grace & Julie

Divej, Imran, Hameed, Shaheer, Mahdi, Shanu, Vinu, Naushad, Haroon & Sabu

Mohan, S.Ali & Shaheer

Greg, Selwyn, Maricar, Justine, Godwyn, George & Hamza

Nitin

Ali

S T U D I O S

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Reem Group Of Companies Christmas Party The Reem Group, (Reem Events Management, 10 Cups International Restaurant, Reem International Manpower Services, Reem Cleaning Co. WLL and Capital Palace Video) held its 3rd Christmas party at Baan Saeng Thai.

Give and Inspire was the theme of the Christmas party, with staff donating used clothing and groceries for those who were affected by Typhoon Haiyan, making the theme that much more relevant

Edna, Jaime, John & Ruby

Dr Benchie, GM & Suzanne, CEO

Vanessa, Karen, Kay, Marlyn T. & Marlyn D.

Jerry, Jeffrey, Suzanne, Ivan, Joel, Ramzan, Wency, Mark, Ron, Ericson & friend

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Fr Ding & Suzanne

Angel, Ezra & Hazel

Eduard & Ricci

Ruby, John & Suzanne

Roy

Emcees - Jo & Kim

Tony

Zack

Ron

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UKMCC HQ Get Together Members of the UKMCC HQ got together for an evening of play your cards right to raise welfare funds. The get together was held at the Orchid Residence in Juffair last month

Annie, Paula, Rachel & Rose

Niel & Tim

Spence & Johnny

Matt

Annie, Chris & Dan Attendees at the UKMCC HQ get together

Tim, Rose & Nick

114 January 2014

Tomo, Andy & Jim

Johnny & Lee

Oli, Paula & Shane

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diningthismonth

Casa Mexicana

Add Zest to Lunch James Claire We all dream of taking lunch in an exotic destination.

Now thanks to this restaurant, a lunch in Mexico is close at hand.

Recently refurbished, Casa Mexicana in Adliya is bright, modern and a respite from the usual, especially when you want a quick lunch with a difference. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers a three-course set menu for BD5.500++, inclusive of soft drinks — hard to beat prices for the quality and style of international fare on offer. Enjoy a choice of three main courses — chicken, fish or beef — and dine in comfort with music that will get you dancing through the afternoon.

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

The restaurant is one of the few venues in the Kingdom that has a kitchen led by Mexican chefs. The cosmetic changes are welcomed along with the return of Acapulco native, executive chef Romaldo Martinez and his extensive experience at developing enticing cuisine. This is a chef who understands the authenticity of his homeland creations, using traditional herbs, spices and cooking styles.

Also this month

With a menu that features nearly 70 dishes, Casa Mexicana serves up both regional and traditional favourites.

With nachos, burritos and other Tex-Mex classics, the restaurant is especially known for their tacos stuffed with interesting ingredients.

Only at Casa Mexicana will you find brochette de filete, tender beef dusted with crushed peppercorns and Cajuns spices skewered and flamed for utmost flavour. Sizzling fajitas, burritos, enchiladas and tacos speak for themselves, but if there is a Mexican favourite not on the menu, then request it from your waiter and Chef Martinez is happy to oblige.

The restaurant’s kitchen team will offer live cooking stations for lunch and dinner during the 2014, and plenty of vegetarian dishes to ensure that every guest can enjoy in a truly Mexican treat.

And what great meal ends without a touch of sublime sweetness. Try the fried ice cream, caramel bananas or tresmarias.

Margarita specials Don’t miss Margarita Madness on Sundays and Tuesdays; get a half pitcher free for every full pitcher purchased. The live entertainment sets the mood for the evening. For many, singing along with resident musician Satur after a few margaritas is often the highlight of the Casa Mexicana experience.

When? Until January 15 Event? Promotional offer Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq The hotel offers a stay with two complimentary meals at Saraya.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? Throughout January Event? Food festival Venue? Silks, Mövenpick Hotel Craving cheese? Savour an eclectic variety of fondue at this restaurant.

E Call 17 460-000.

When? January 7, 14, 21, 28 Event? Meat Your Match Venue? Legendz, InterCon Regency Indulge in a five-course steak menu for BD22++ per person.

E Call 17 227-777.

When? January 11 Event? Cooking class Venue? Saveur, Kempinski Hotel Learn the culinary secrets of a classic French patisserie this year.

E Call 17 171-441.

When? January 28 and 30 Event? Poolside dinner Venue? Nasmat, Kempinski Hotel Enjoy the pool, hot tub and pool bar along with an elaborate menu.

E Call 17 171-000.

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

122 x Restaurant Listing - 123 x Theme Nights

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January 2014 115

diningf&bhappenings BRAZIL RODIZIO GRILL & LOUNGE

Eat All You Can Famed for its atmosphere and copious servings, this Brazilian bistro has now added brunch to its offerings.

The first authentic rodizio in the country, Brazil Rodizio Grill & Lounge has enjoyed a reputation for delicious dining for many years. Now there is a new treat for us, a Friday brunch.

A rodizio refers to the style of dining where you enjoy waiters circle the restaurant with freshly cooked meats and delicacies on long skewers fresh from the grill.

Servers use knives to cut the various cooked meats for the diner as they desire.

The Friday brunch version of the rodizio definitely allows one to eat as much as you like. Start the brunch with a selection of salads and appetisers or enjoy the sushi station, watching fresh sushi rolled before your eyes.

If the continuous circling of meats, such as Brazilian Picanha beef, chicken piripiri and bacon wrapped prawns, aren’t enough to consume your appetite then head over to the buffet spread.

This features fresh grilled crab, prawns and hammour, pasta dishes and biryani.

Brunch priced at BD21++ per person; enjoy an unlimited and succulent variety of rotisserie grilled meats, a gourmet salad bar, authentic Brazilian appetisers, and an experience like nowhere else.

If you can’t find an end to your appetite, then indulge in the dessert selection. The sweettoothed diner will be happy to know that they allow limitless helpings. With live music and an atmosphere of warmth, dining in Brazil is as close as a trip to Adliya.

E Call 17 826-686.

bystanderthismonth

Mövenpick Hotel Christmas Tree Lighting To start the festive season, the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain held a Christmas tree lighting reception at the hotel's lobby last month. Guests and children enjoyed lots of festive fare and carols by the hotel's choir

Wendy & Fran

Teresa & Paula

116 January 2014

Mohammed, Siggen & Heinz

Noha, Ahmed & Mariam

Kallun, Vasa & Luke

Anna, Sara, Julie & Sumaya

Adrian, Raquel, Hannah & Rolly

Dilrukshi & Priya

Wilma & Lotte

Bella, Kenny, Deeann & Brooke

Ramsay, Chris, Aline & Sophie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

xxxxxx

RAYES RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

Just for Starters The popularity of Lebanese food is perhaps most evident in the demand for the cuisine at events. This restaurant offers great deals for those in the mood for mezze platters.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Beyond the familiar dishes like hummus, baba ghanouj, shawarma and falafel, Lebanese cuisine unfolds a rich variety of flavours, heavily influenced by its Mediterranean climate, geographical location and history.

With a history shaped by traders and foreign invaders, it’s no surprise that Lebanese food fuses Middle Eastern, European and even Oriental tastes in an entirely unique way. Bahrain’s gourmands can try its most authentic recipes at Rayés Restaurant & Lounge in Coral Bay. The restaurant offers a blend of grains, starches, fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts and seafood.

The poultry and lamb dishes are quite popular, often seasoned with garlic, herbs and other spices as well as olive oil, a highquality, locally-sourced ingredient.

Both healthy and flavourful, the cuisine of Lebanon is even garnering attention among the increasingly health-conscious diner, looking for nutritious yet delicious meals. At Rayés, it is more than just a matter of food. The bistro pays equal attention to its setting.

Indulge in mouth-watering traditional dishes with a view of the Arabian Sea. The idyllic location makes this Lebanese restaurant the perfect spot for a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

At your doorstep With a central location, Rayés is a short drive away from Bahrain’s business hub and many residential areas. This allows them to bring the freshly prepared meal to you while it’s hot (or cold if you’ve got the mezze as well) at no extra cost.

The free delivery business lunch deal is the talk of the town as most professionals enjoy Lebanese fare in the comfort of their desks. What’s more; they deliver from noon until midnight.

Late hour shifts don’t look so bad with a Rayés platter just a phone call away.

That being said, those who are at the venue can enjoy live music, a seaside setting and great company.

E Call 81222.

January 2014 117

diningf&bhappenings BICE RISTORANTE

Brunch Redefined

Bice Ristorante, located in Moda Mall, delivers a pick-me-up through their Saturday brunch. Whether it’s reinterpreting classics, highlighting regional flavours, or simply serving up delectable comfort dishes, this restaurant offers a sumptuous blend of traditional and new trends in Italian cuisine, from noon on Saturdays.

The upscale design of the fine dining venue is combined with elements of a cosy home. However, it isn’t just the spectacular view and the impressive lounge area that keeps Bahrain’s diners coming back to Bice. The main feature of this modern trattoria, though, is its seasonal inspired Italian menu.

You needn’t worry about veering through tables and watching your step when you opt for the brunch menu at Bice. Simply place your order and wait for it all to come to you.

If you aren’t full yet, feel free to place more orders! The ‘eat until your belly bursts’ concept is priced at BD18. This is inclusive of a glass of wine or beer, and unlimited soft drinks, coffee and tea.

Bice’s modern recipes have Tuscan influences. Choose from a variety of appetisers, salads, soups and risottos before you indulge in mains.

A standout dish is the linguini pasta with basil pesto and calamari. Those who enjoy red meat should try the veal piccata with lemon butter sauce and linguini pasta.

Traditional desserts, such as gelato, tiramisu and pannacotta, are a welcome addition to the menu. You can complete your meal with a shot of espresso or a cappuccino in true Italian style.

E Call 17 533-666.

AL ARISHA LEBANESE RESTAURANT

Many restaurants serve Lebanese food but Maha Al Mahmood, founding owner of Al Arisha Lebanese Restaurant, prides herself on the originality of the dishes she and her chefs serve at this Umm Al Hassam establishment. Unwilling to change tradition, most of the ingredients for the eatery are brought in directly from Lebanon.

Sujook and makanek sausages, for instance, are brought in from the famed Basterma Bedo in the market district of ‘little Armenia’ — Bourj Hammoud. While the sujook is prepared differently and sliced, the makanek is served in its original tiny portions. Both are carefully prepared in lemon butter sauces by executive chef Osama Tahtah, and served with fresh, soft saaj breads which are baked on site.

The desire for freshness is uncompromising at Al Arisha.

The tabbouleh, chopped and prepared, is never mixed in its intricate recipe until an order is placed so as to deliver the freshest flavours.

For centuries, Lebanon was a thriving home for the Armenian community. Today, while the community has dwindled, the history of their food and its influence on Lebanese cuisine is still evident.

This can be enjoyed at Al Arisha with dishes such as the finely sliced basturma, a highly seasoned air-dried cured beef.

Traditions do not happen overnight; they are ingrained into society through repetition. Al Arisha is just that — a tradition of the finest Lebanese food, attributed through the repetition of serving customers daily for nearly two decades.

No meal stirs our passion quite like brunch. You can now enjoy an alternative take on the familiar weekend brunch at this Italian eatery.

Taste of Beirut

This restaurant is not just the home to great food; it is home to Lebanese dishes, flavours and traditions.

E Call 17 725-414.

118 January 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DIET MEALZ

Healthy Lifestyle A new diet concept now takes the hassle out of deciding what food to eat and when; carefully constructed meals delivered to your door allow you to feel better.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Racing against the clock to complete a meal, take-out and microwave dinners are some of the downsides to modern-day urban life. Well, that no longer needs to be the case with a new service from Eatcorp that not only saves you time but ensures that you enjoy a wholesome healthy meal.

Diet Mealz, in Adliya, delivers healthy and nutritious meals each day designed to maintain optimum energy levels and remove the saturated fats as well as preservatives from your meals. This service is not just a diet plan but it also takes care of your dietary needs with a daily supply of nourishing meals for breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner.

Each diet is customized and assessed by the centre’s qualified professionals. The process takes into account a number of factors such as body water and muscle to fat ratios; based on this a low fat, low sodium and sugar diet is prepared.

The head dietician, Hanaa Chehade Zaher, is a seasoned dietician and regularly gives lessons about nutrition. Her assistant, Kimberly Marie T. Papa, holds a degree in Nutrition and dietetics. She is a registered nutritionist-dietician in the Philippines and a member of the Philippine Association of Nutritionist (PAN) and Nutritionist Dietician Association of the Philippines (NDAP).

Increasing popularity Only a couple of months old the centre boasts a rapidly expanding customer base. Their most popular diet programs are for weight management. Menus can be adjusted to a number of specifications, such as cases for people on a vegetarian, lactose intolerance and gluten free diet. You can even specify which ingredients you would prefer not to be included in any meal plan.

The team is working on devising diets for pregnant and lactating mothers and recuperating patients. They even hope to come up with their own line of detox juices and juice cleansers in the near future.

Diet Mealz advises you to implement an exercise regime to complement the diet plan as this will lead to better and faster results. The centre has started to build up a portfolio of success stories from clients who have benefited from their diet-plans.

Steering clear of the ‘diet boot-camp’ approach, the centre allows customers to satisfy some eating habits in a healthy way with a wide range of sweet and savory snacks which are given in controlled portions.

The centre offers a 50 per cent discount on all the diet plans throughout January, so that you can enjoy a healthy start to the year.

E Call 17 227-700.

January 2014 119

diningf&bhappenings CUCINA ITALIANA

Mastering Italian Cuisine This successful Italian restaurant has uncovered a new master chef in their kitchen.

Inspired by one of the world’s most loved food and cooking shows, Cucina Italiana organised a MasterChef contest of its own. The hunt for a chef who wants to make it to the top of the culinary world resulted in Nadine Kanaan being crowned Italian MasterChef on December 18.

The chef from Jordan won the title after a month-long series of cook-offs and competitive tastings at the restaurant. After battling against 36 other eager cooking enthusiasts, Nadine walked away with lots of amazing prizes. Most notably, she will have her winning ‘igloo fish’ dish featured in the 2014 menu of Cucina Italiana for all to taste.

A fresh start Cucina Italiana offers the complete dining experience with a strong wine culture, refreshing cocktails, and of course smooth, creamy Italian espresso served all-day. The setting is warm, rustic, informal, fast-paced and unpretentious. The restaurant, located in Juffair at Al Safir Hotel, celebrates its second anniversary this month. Having proven very popular with diners, this trattoria serves up rustic, home-style dishes, prepared using traditional techniques and brought to you in a fantastic ‘Godfather-style’ setting.

A special treat is in store for guests in the New Year with a new menu and a commemorative three-course feast. This will include selected beverage for BD15+ per person. The anniversary special menu, which is available from January 23 to 31, will be launched officially with a cake-cutting ceremony.

E Call 17 001-317.

Nadine Kanaan

bystanderthismonth

Cucina Italiano Masterchef Cucino Italiano held a Italian Masterchef inspired cooking competition for aspiring chefs at the restaurant in Juffair last month. The judges at the event were, Cucina Italiano executive chef Fortunato Giordano, Paul Fraser & Pauline

Chef Fortunato, Heather & Cynthia

Anna, Jennifer, Pauly, Renjith, Nory & Rose

Chef Fortunato & Peter Lyons

120 January 2014

Paul Fraser, Pauline & Chef Fortunato

Rose & Gary

Stuart, Mo & Giovanni

Trevor & Elvie

Michael in action

Arelina, Dave & Kristen

Bill

Gary

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MAKI RESTAURANT

A Taste of Perfection The theme night at this Japanese restaurant has proven to be so popular that it has become a regular event for the Kingdom’s gourmands.

Over the last year, Maki Bahrain at the World Trade Centre delighted us with a monthly event that not only showcased their culinary creations, but also pleasantly surprised our palates. Maki’s chefs always look forward to the night when they present guests with 15 samplings of their staple dishes and newest inventions.

“This is the night when you get to sample small portions of our most delicious, favourite and classic Japanese fusion dishes along with new concepts, all complemented with the right beverages. It is a night when we get to showcase what Maki is all about,” says Steve Fernandes, general manager of the restaurant.

Showcasing Maki, the event educates guests about the menu, especially those frequenting the restaurant and holding functions and parties. Some of the newest dishes on offer represent food and art.

The red tartufo quinoa salad is made from highly nutritious, gluten-free red quinoa seeds, cilantro, truffles and pine nuts.

Introducing red quinoa for the very first time to Bahrain, this is a tasty and wholesome salad. All you have to do is squeeze some lime on top of it, mix and enjoy!

The great news for 2014 is that the popularity of the ‘15 Magical Moments of fusion cuisine’ has led it to be held every Tuesday, thus giving food lovers the chance to savour this ‘festival of flavours’ four times a month. You now have more reasons to enjoy the perfection offered at Maki.

E Call 17 522-733.

VAPIANO

The Best of Freshness This month, a popular in-mall restaurant brings a Michelin-star chef and her creations to the Kingdom.

Located on the first level of Bahrain City Centre, Vapiano offers a dynamic gastronomic experience. Diners can enjoy a modern interactive guest service within an urban upscale ambience.

Every dish is prepared in front of guests with fresh ingredients and authentic Italian recipes. A success since its inception in 2002, Vapiano joins with German culinary sensation Cornelia Poletto to treat us all this month.

A famed German restaurateur, television personality and author, she is a renowned chef who successfully apprenticed for German gourmet chef Heinz Winkler. In the following years she worked for and with Anna Sgroi, a student of Gualtiero Marchesi, who is considered to be the founder of modern Italian cuisine.

From 2000 to 2010 Cornelia ran her own Michelin-star restaurant in Hamburg called Poletto. Today, retired from her own restaurants, she can often be seen on German television.

However, this month her cooking and expertise will be showcased in Vapiano’s new ‘Specials inspired by Cornelia Poletto’ menu.

Enjoy new dishes like Insalata Scarola E Salmone or Spaghetti Gorgonzola E Pistaccio. You can savour pizza made with ovenroasted tomatoes, soft goat cheese, aromatic garlic paste and mozzarella, refined with fresh herbs.

Vapiano proves consistently that it is not ‘fast food’ but ‘great food served fast’. With the introduction of Poletto’s menu, this restaurant can claim to have Michelin-star dining as well.

E Call 17 491-391.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2014 121

diningrestaurantlisting World Beat Café

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

17 813-750 17 744-773 77 055-772 17 594-458 17 580-045 17 581-221 17 811-970 17 742-266 17 291-569 17 566-565 17 725-550 17 580-552 17 179-041 17 494-940 17 870-070

Asian Chin Li Curry Country David's Stir Fry Hot Wok House Boat Kontiki Meisei Memories Monsoon Noodle Factory Nu Asia Panasia

17 717-717 17 537-555 17 540-188 17 178-083 16 010-321 17 525-455 17 007-770 17 178-646 17 749-222 16 010-534 17 587-171 17 721-600

17 612-576

European Block 338 Camelot Coco’s Cyprus Taverna Déjà Vu Paul Bakery & Restaurant Sizzlers Txoko Zytoun

17 710-338 17 717-745 17 716-512 17 716-316 13 657-770 17 172-321 17 716-999 16 000-000 17 298-471

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

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

Fusion Fusions

17 746-427

Indian Akbar Clay Oven Copper Chimney Curry Tree

17 296-660 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662

Upstairs Downstairs Wafi Gourmet Zoe

17 713-093 17 179-999 17 176-400

International (5 Star Hotel) Al Safir Al Waha Al Wasmeyyah La Med La Mosaique Le Domain[34] Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya Saveur Selections Silk’s

17 524-538 17 746-425 17 535-000 17 580-000 17 531-122 16 000-000 17 525-214 17 845-000 17 636-410 17 171-000 17 227-777 17 460-055

International (4 Star Hotel) Al Nakheel Café California Café Marisol Café Sayah Chaq’s Grill Fusion Café Grand Café Il Giardino Julio's Coffee Shop Klouds La Brasserie La Café Le Cascada Le Jardin Neyran Parsia Ramee Bistro Ramee Café Red Café Relax Inn Coffee Shop Rendezvous Tiffany’s

17 559-900 17 826-001 17 701-201 17 224-000 17 290-555 17 811-688 17 727-230 17 583-388 17 565-888 17 360-000 17 313-333 17 810-555 17 360-360 17 742-000 17 584-400 17 814-777 17 290-600 17 297-000 17 296-660 17 815-815 17 366-222 17 716-999

Iranian

Peppers Rice Bowl The Noodle House Wok

17 717-808 17 179-600 17 666-353 17 636-415

Brazilian Brasa de Brasil Brazil Rodizio Grill

17 582-225 17 826-686

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

17 717-969 17 717-439 17 746-423 17 564-424 17 722-199 17 728-700 17 725-015 17 506-070 17 292-988 17 533-533 17 713-603

Café Restaurants Cafe Delices Café T Delifrance Esquires Le Bateau Le Chocolat Lina’s Café Rosa Verge Skyw@lk Café

17 746-434 17 750-777 17 696-031 77 177-660 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538 13 667-777 17 363-999

Hyderabad House It’s Mirchi Kalpaka Lanterns Mantra Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Shamiana Spices The Yellow Chilli

17 720-031 17 727-230 17 297-000 17 590-591 17 211-133 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 178-085 17 531-122 17 580-480

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

17 564-282 17 591-259

International East West Cuisine Healthy Calorie Jim’s Restaurant La Fontaine Links Little Chef/Wholesale Mei n Yu Muju Nando’s Pomodorini Rendezvous Salad Boutique The Crepe Café

17 210-012 17 369-399 17 710-654 17 230-123 17 751-262 17 595-950 16 010-160 16 039-800 17 825-100 17 000-121 17 178-712 36 664-427 17 820-722

Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Persian Room Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill

Arirang Da Rae Jung

17 290-945 17 002-490

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

17 298-008 17 292-911 17 533-336 17 531-122

Shawarma 17 131-111 17 725-414 17 224-000 17 280-111 17 100-069 17 697-687 17 360-000 17 566-556 17 506-070 17 744-144 17 312-700 17 311-280 17 229-979 16 033-800 17 746-417 17 312-222 17 365-055

Mexican Casa Mexicana Margarita Mexicana Senor Paco’s Al Zerda

La Perle Sea Chef Seafood Market Waves

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873 16 662-123

Middle Eastern Al Abraaj Al-Bokhari

17 178-090 17 311-186

Leewan Al Khor Melh Alzad Taza Yalla Yalla

16 010-666 17 311-170 17 784-997 17 827-999

Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

Steak Houses Klouds Le Sauvage Meat + Fire Legendz Plums The Butcher Shop & Grill The Meat Co

17 360-000 16 000-000 17 227-777 17 580-000 17 172-323 17 742-080

Thai Baan Saeng Thai Banana Leaf Lanna Thai I Am Thai Orchid Thai Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

17 715-775 17 744-171 17 593-940 77 040-454 17 296-660 17 746-421 17 721-155 17 506-070 17 717-040 17 710-771

Turkish Iskenderun Grill Kosebasi Turkish Mashawi Express

17 292-950 17 172-322 17 002-939

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

Italiano Justapasta La Pergola La Taverna Luigi's Restaurant & Pizza Masso Medzo Mia Mia Mino’s Pizzeria Mondo Nino Oliveto Pasta Art Pastarito Ristoranti Prego Primavera Roma Romano’s Macaroni Grill Vapiano

17 533-666 17 744-774 17 822-274 17 587-878 17 713-710 17 001-317 17 636-363 17 695-556 17 581-919 17 506-070 17 746-419 17 229-979 17 693-533 17 721-061 17 227-777 17 564-414 17 744-777 17 525-484 17 566-555 17 716-747 17 001-750 17 179-300 17 751-263 17 580-000 17 725-885 17 723-818 17 491-391

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

122 January 2014

17 524-579 17 369-269 17 811-511 17 580-600 16 010-166 17 746-431 17 555-989

Korean

17 583-555 17 290-945 17 582-422 17 533-383 17 725-638 17 533-000 17 522-733 17 713-113 17 746-429 17 178-748 17 718-090 17 822-274 17 583-373

Moroccan Momo Le Marrakech

17 180-659 17 003-273

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

17 826-222 17 179-400 17 723-133 17 794-000 17 581-516 17 720-929 16 010-524 17 711-113 17 811-666 17 827-133 17 811-830

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

17 586-555

Seafood Asia Sea Food Far East Seafood Market Fish Market La Marine La Mer

17 224-466 17 727-230 17 701-201 17 595-775 17 636-411

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

17 506-070 17 713-778 17 257-778 17 200-040 17 506-070 17 587-828 17 241-111 17 131-414 17 178-084 17 243-115 17 727-887 17 711-111 17 717-542 17 178-436 17 221-722 17 161-716

Eating Out listings

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

themenights wednesday What: Asian Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel Eat all you can at this authentic Asian buffet for BD 9.5++.

E Call 17 360-000 What: Seafood Night Where: Al Wasmeyyah, Golden Tulip Sample the fresh catch of the day and unlimited selected beverages.

E Call 17 535-000

sunday

tuesday

What: Masala Mahal Where: Saraya, Sofitel This trip down the spice route serves some fine Indian dishes.

E Call 17 636-363.

What: Discover Asia Buffet Where: Silk's, Mövenpick Hotel Authentic cuisine with unlimited wine and beer at BD19++.

E Call 17 460-000

What: Indian Tandoori Night Where: Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Tantalising fare dished out from the Indian-style clay oven.

E Call 17 713-000.

What: Lebanese Arabian Buffet Where: Kenza, The K Hotel A slice of Lebanon served in traditional settings at BD8.

E Call 17 360-000

What: Pizza Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel An all-you-can-eat deal on pizzas with soft drinks for BD4.

E Call 17 360-000

What: Pasta Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel Variety of pasta in sauces of your choice with soft drinks at BD4++.

E Call 17 360-000

What: Tex-Mex Night Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Authentic Mexican flavours for only BD12++.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Meat & Fish Where: Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency A five-course gourmet dinner with selected wines for BD 22++.

E Call 17 227-777.

What: Italian Aperitivo Buffet Where: Mondo, Diplomat Radisson Blu A classic Italian buffet with live entertainment for BD10++.

E Call 17 531-666.

What: Surf and Turf Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Enjoy your favourite seafood and meaty delights for BD12++.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Butcher Shop Night Where: Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Prime cuts of meat prepared on live cooking stations for BD13++.

E Call 17 713-000.

What: Seafood Buffet Where: Al Noor Tent, Elite Resort & Spa An elaborate seafood buffet with the paellas as star attraction.

E Call 17 373-333.

What: Steak Night Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Offering some of the best cuts straight off the grill.

E Call 17 531-122.

thursday What: Thursday Night Brunch Where: Silk’s, Mövenpick Hotel A quirky affair that serves brunch favourites for dinner.

E Call 17 460-000.

What: Hot Grill Night Where: H2O, Elite Grande Hotel Enjoy fresh food from live barbecue stations.

E Call 17 565-888.

What: Del Mare Buffet Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel An extensive seafood buffet at BD12++ with soft drinks.

E Call 17 360-000.

What: Arabian Night Where: Selections, InterContinental Regency Authentic dishes and sheesha with live cooking stations.

E Call 17 227-777.

What: Beef Eater’s Grill Where: Al Wasmeyyah, Golden Tulip A char-grill experience with a choice of selected prime cuts.

E Call 17 535-000 What: Seafood Night Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza The day’s catch at BD21.950 with selected drinks.

E Call 17 531-122.

saturday What: Catch of the Day Where: H2O, Elite Grande Hotel All you can eat seafood fiesta for BD10 including shisha.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Flavours of Arabia Where: Saraya, Sofitel Offering a number of authentic Arabian dishes for BD18 per person.

E Call 17 636-363

friday

monday

What: Sizzler Night Where: Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Enjoy sizzling treats offered in an unlimited buffet.

E Call 17 713-000.

What: Vegetarian Thali Where: Golden Peacock, Mirador Hotel A selection of vegetarian dishes as a complete meal for BD2.9.

E Call 17 312-000.

What: Lebanese Arabian Buffet Where: Kenza, The K Hotel A slice of Lebanon served in traditional settings at BD8.

E Call 17 360-000

What: Vegetarian Thali Where: Golden Peacock, Mirador Hotel A selection of vegetarian dishes as a complete meal for BD2.9.

E Call 17 312-000.

What: The Commons Where: Klouds, The K Hotel Gourmet kebabs and shawarma for BD4++ with soft drinks.

E Call 17 360-000.

What: Monday Pasta Night Where: Fiamma, Sofitel Enjoy your favourite pastas and create your own special sauce.

E Call 17 636-363.

What: BBQ & Salad Buffet Where: Klouds, The K Hotel The buffet offers a wide selection of BBQ dishes & Salad for BD4.

E Call 17 360-000 What: Mussels Promotion Where: Camelot Here’s a dinner of unlimited ‘moules et frites’ for BD14 per person.

E Call 17 717-745

January 2014 123

bystanderthismonth

JJ's Karaoke Idol 2013 Grand Finale Bahrain’s original and most loved talent show, Karaoke Idol's grand finale was held at JJ’s Irish Restaurant in Adliya last month.

The winner of the 2013 edition of the show was Miraya Varma

Vijay, Rajeev & Ratinder

The judges - Ashley, Jo & Charlie

Siyana, Anna & Nathalie

Mariya the winner with Siyana, Jo, Ashley & Charlie

Noor & Razan

May, Miraya, Ahmed, Rashida, Anca & Helen

Arantxa, Anthony & Manuel

Abbey & May

Tina & Dinky

Maria & Tariq

Mariya on stage

Dima & Ashley

Lady Gaga & Shakira Tribute Show Sisters Charlotte and Katie Hopley took to the stage as Lady Gaga and Shakira along with a team of dancers and a light show at The Ramee Palace Hotel's Dublin Lounge last month

Romina, Mariel, Leah & Ranah

Charlotte Hopley, Jill Lake, Katie Hopley & Harrie Gibson

124 January 2014

Lady Gaga tribute

Shakira tribute act

Thomas, Antony & Raj

Joy & Cherry

DJ Angel

Heidi & Larry

Neil & Bryan

Valerie & Michelle

Peter & Linda

Andrew & Lynne

www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdarkthismonth When? January 24 | Event? Fifth anniversary party | Venue? Dublin, Ramee Palace Hotel

Pot of Gold elma bartholomew

St Patrick’s Day brings the spotlight to the Irish pubs in town. However, this popular nightclub invites to enjoy a pint and celebrate its birthday.

No matter where you are in the world, you can find a bar with dark wood panelling and Guinness on tap, often packed with expatriates. In Bahrain, we have the celebrated Dublin at Ramee Palace Hotel. Although you don’t need a reason to down a pint on a weekend, this nightclub offer a reason for one that you can’t resist — they’re celebrating their fifth anniversary!

On January 24, the venue has the first big party of the year with High Five. Five years ago, Dublin was just a place where you could get Guinness.

Now it is known as one of the top party venues on the island with a reputation for live entertainment and fun nights out.

There is a lot more to an Irish pub than just drink. Pub culture in Ireland has a long history, but at its core is a sense of camaraderie and friendship.

An authentic Irish pub acts as a place to drink at leisure and a place in which to meet with friends, neighbours and complete strangers to converse in a relaxed atmosphere.

Fortunately, we don’t need to book a flight to Ireland to enjoy an Irish evening. Dublin Club invites you to indulge in Also this month

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Dublin

a good shepherd’s pie, and to drink a dark, dark beer in the company of your near and dear.

Food in Ireland has always been locally sourced due to the country’s island status, so no matter what you eat you’ll be amazed by the flavours and freshness.

Dublin Club lives by this culture. Everyone can enjoy a free welcome glass of bubbly to start the evening off and food and beverage packages are available on the night. There are a few things better than a perfectly prepared Gaelic steak.

Their stews are big on flavour too.

Irish pubs are designed for socialising, so don’t plan to sit at a table and just take it all in. Get involved! Generation was the band that opened this nightclub, so it is fitting that they will be performing at the fifth anniversary celebrations, albeit with a refreshed line-up.

Even though they will be performing on stage, this band is as interactive as the ones you’d find in a pub in Ireland, where it’s hard to spot the difference between a guest and an artist. The other half of the entertainment team is DJ Angel, who will bring out all the last five years’ biggest hits for a packed out dance floor.

In keeping with tradition of wooden gifts for the fifth anniversary, there will be giveaways and prizes throughout the evening. What more can you ask for?

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

Txoko

Txoko Nights The sky lounge at The Domain invites you to check out some great deals throughout the week.

Monday evenings are for Latin lovers with salsa, merengue and reggaeton played all night long. Enjoy two drinks for the price of one from 6pm until 8pm.

‘Throw-back-Tuesdays’ at Txoko are a trip down memory lane with some of the best tunes from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. Once again, early birds can enjoy two drinks for half the price.

Wednesdays are all about the ladies. Bring four of your girlfriends between 9pm and 11pm and receive a complimentary bottle of bubbly.

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Intempo

RAMEE GROUP OF HOTELS

Join the Party

Start the New Year with a bang at one of the outlets at one of the hotels from the Kingdom’s largest hotel chain.

Ramee California Now that the New Year’s Eve parties have passed its time to stir things up once again and Club Buffalo comes with the perfect solution. Come by for their Holiday Hangover party on January 17 to give this year a thumping start.

The resident band Intempo welcomes two new artists, adding more energy to their performances. Having rocked in many clubs across the UK, Dale and Victoria add their unique touch to Bahrain’s party scene.

The fresh face behind the decks is DJ Trixta who is a Guinness World Record holder and has spun his spell across four continents and is known for his groovy mash-ups.

E Call 33 731-000.

Ramee Baisan International After winning the award for ‘best bar food’ for two years in a row, there’s no way you should miss out on the tantalising bites served at The Warbler. As you sip on your favourite cocktail and groove to the music by resident band Soundphoria and DJ Francis, your evenings are just as delectable as they are entertaining.

Join the fun on January 9 and 10, at the Autumn Beer Fest to sample the chef’s special menu along with an unlimited drinks package and many prizes to win. The club will bring in a special tribute act later this month. In addition to this, the Chinese New Year celebrations get underway on January 31 with a special spread of traditional and fusion Chinese cuisine and an unlimited supply of drinks.

126 January 2014

DJ Trixta

The club also presents a new weekly attraction — Frunch, a fun-filled Friday brunch experience. Enjoy an impressive variety of international dishes with free flowing drinks at great prices.

E Call 38 381-631.

Ramee Windsor Tower Another one of the Kingdom’s popular hotspots, Enigma introduces a new party band this month. Playtime offers a groovy retro sound, R&B vibe, a rich texture of swing-flavoured pop, peppered with urban and slow hip-hop sounds and downright romantic ballads. With such a versatile sound, their performances strike just the right chord with the audience.

Band leader and drummer Gerald Yamson, guitarist Lester Concepcion, keyboardist Rogelio and bassist Jayson are complete powerhouses of entertainment. The band has three female vocalists and one male singer on board. Playtime performs five nights a week.

E Call 39 508-403 and 36 270-206.

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themenights sunday What: Sports & Shots Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan A single shot goes a long way here. Unlimited drinks for BD9.9.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: FBI Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza For those in hospitality industry, the menu is offered at half price.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Quiz Night Where: JJ’s Irish Pub & Restaurant Take part in the famous JJ’s quiz and win prizes for each round.

E Call 17 742-323.

What: Hop Fest Where: Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden Unlimited brews and a lavish buffet at BD9++ from 7 to 10 pm.

E Call 39 159-912.

What: Grape Fest Where: Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden Grape tasting with cheese and vegies for BD8.5++ from 7-10 pm.

E Call 39 159-912.

What: Microphone Madness Where: JJ’s Irish Pub and Restaurant One of island’s popular theme nights; free shot for every singer.

E Call 17 742-323.

What: Live-Oke Where: Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Here’s your chance to sing with the band live on stage.

E Call 39 046-715

tuesday What: Candy Night Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Dine in a candy shop! Colours pop in the decor and on plates.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Jam Nights Where: Downtown, InterContinental Regency Jam with the band and receive a free drink.

E Call 17 227-777

What: Boys Night Out Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Enjoy a 20 percent off on Bullfrog and bucket beer for BD9.9.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Spiritual Sundays Where: Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Enjoy a fun-filled evening with special offers on all house spirits.

E Call 39 046-715

What: Cocktail Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Happy hours continue; buy one get one free offer on all drinks.

E Call 17 531-122.

t

What: Games Night Where: Kicks, Hotel Diva Pool, darts, board games and extended happy hours.

E Call 39 922-583.

monday

What: Nostalgic Night Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Not only music makes you nostalgic but the reduced prices too.

E Call 38 381-631.

wednesday

What: Becks Jam Nite Where: Club Buffalo, Ramee California Rock out on stage with the band and get a free Becks pint.

E Call 17 826-001.

What: Drink and Sing Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Free drinks for the best voice in this multilingual Karaoke Night E Call 36 020-750.

What: Sushi Night Where: Muju, The Dragon Sushi platter with unlimited select beverages at BD14.

E Call 16 033-833.

What: Pint and Jam Night Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Jam with the in-house band and enjoy four pints of beer @ BD9.9.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Paellas Night Where: Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa Sea Food and Paellas made from freshest ingredients and rice.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Premium Promo Where: Club Buffalo, Ramee California Enjoy a selection of premium spirits and mixers for BD2.

E Call 33 731-000.

What: Karaoke Nights Where: Shift 7, Elite Resort & Spa Sing the night away while pouring drinks with your close mates.

E Call 17 313-000.

What: 4 Pint Pitcher Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Quench your thirst with discounts on all pitchers at the bar.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Karaoke Night Where: Corners, The Dragon Resort Partake in the growing madness around the mic with each drink.

E Call 16 031-113.

What: Karaoke Night Where: Champions Lounge, The K Hotel Enjoy a game of darts and pool or even sing your favourite song.

E Call 36 249-807.

What: Quiz & Curry Night Where: Kicks, Hotel Diva Join the fun as you test your GK and enjoy some hot Indian curries.

E Call 39 922-583.

saturday

What: Brainiac's Fun Quiz Night Where: Corners, The Dragon Resort Fun-filled trivia quiz with prizes galore — free entry.

E Call 16 031-113.

thursday What: Hot Grill Night Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Live barbecue stations dish out a wide buffet of tantalising treats.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Steak Night Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Order your favourite prime cuts and get a pint of beer free.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Thursday Night Grills Where: Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa A meat bazaar with marinades of your choice for BD12.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Retro Night Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Resort & Spa Sway to some classic tunes as you drink in some retro magic.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Sports & Shots & Warbler Nightingale Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Get a bucket beer for BD9.9 with nightlong Karaoke.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Karaoke Nights Where: Shift 7, Elite Resort & Spa Sing the night away with your buddies and smashing cocktails.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Cocktail Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Continuing happy hours; get buyone-get-one-free on all drinks.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Chill Out Saturday Where: Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa Enjoy soothing music and BBQ preparations by the pool.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Jazz Night Where: Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden An evening of acoustic jazz with the in-house band True Blue.

E Call 17 710-338.

What: Hoteliers’ Night Where: Downtown, InterContinental Regency Flash your card for a discount if part of the hospitality industry.

E Call 17 227-777.

What: Karaoke Night Where: Kicks, Hotel Diva Start the weekend with a spirited singalong with friends.

E Call 39 922-583.

friday What: Drink and Sing Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Resort & Spa Free drinks for the best voice in this multilingual Karaoke Night.

E Call 36 020-750.

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Jaradda Island Boat Trip Dick Potter hosted a number of friends on a cruise aboard his boat Asmaha. The skipper and his friends coasted on calm seas and even better weather to the Jaradda Island last month Robert & Dick

Tara, Shirley, Jo, Jackie, Paul & Emma

Michel

Ian & Emma

Karl & Jackie

Robbie & Jo

Ann, George & Keegan

"The crew!!"

Debbie

Faces This Month From nightclubs, and social events to dinners, from National Day celebrations to car launches, our photographers were in the midst of it all, capturing all the action

Gigi, George, Andrea, Anne & Alex Middleton

Khulood, Mariyam & Fatima

Mr & Mrs Raj Shetty

Dr Jan & his wife Hilde at the Maki Restaurant, World Trade Centre

Cara, Lisa, Hannah & Chloe

Alana & Aisling

Asfia & Vive

Lubna, Linda, Natalie & Layal

Ahmed, Hassan & Ameer

Shahida & Nighet

Ameena & Sarah

128 January 2014

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The scent of power The Game Intense is a new fragrance by the iconic brand Davidoff. Building on its forerunner, this perfume adds a very distinctive touch of seduction and audacity.

Available at leading retailers.

Edited by Maryam Toorani

Garden of Eden

Trendy timepiece

Pandora’s Enchanted Forest collection portrays artistic interpretations of forest findings and fairytales, woodland creatures, and forsaken treasures. The pieces capture femininity and fragility with poetic feather jewellery and leaf-like charms.

Available at the Pandora outlet in the BCC

Style is in the details. The Cruise Original Lipstick, from TechnoMarine, is just what you need to add a pop of colour that will pull your outfit together.

Available at A La Mode.

Immersive gaming With its dynamic, connected, innovative second screen features and integrated social media capabilities, the PS4 has made way to the next generation of gaming.

Available at Ashrafs.

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What’s New

Off to the races!

Inspired by the legendary vintage car, Chophard’s scent boasts a self-assured character. The fragrance rushes forward with floral lavender notes refreshed by bergamot, while notes of juniper berries accentuate the freshness.

Available at leading retailers.

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ASIA JEWELLERS

Military Precision Nothing says luxury like a vintage-inspired timepiece. If you are looking to start the New Year with a timepiece that will last for generations, this is just the item for you.

130 January 2014

Pioneering the watchmaking industry since the 19th Century, Panerai is reputed for its pure Italian aesthetic that is loyal to the peninsula’s traditions.

The Luminor 1950 3 Days, also known as the PAM 372, has become one of the brand’s most popular models. It is a true testament to Officine Panerai’s DNA with a minimalist military style and iconic case.

The clean lines, which communicate Panerai’s identity and history, have an immediate appeal to enthusiasts. The model is available in a version enhanced by another historic detail known to the brand. Left-handed watches are very much part of the history of Panerai. These version feature the winding

crown and the crown-protecting device at nine o’clock, on the left side of the case.

The commandos of the Italian Navy had to wear several instruments on their wrists at once, not only their watch, but also the compass and depth gauge. For convenience, some of them preferred to wear their watch on the right wrist.

The steel case of the Luminor 1950 Left-Handed 3 Days has a unique detail which distinguishes it from the classic. The case band has a cusped shape, hinting at the form of a cushion case.

Another element of great interest is the absolute purity of the black dial, with the large numerals at the cardinal points.

E Call 17 535-344.

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BALDININI

Crafted by hand Your individual style should allow you to stride confidently and elegantly along the most exclusive fashion path. This designer helps you do just that.

The newly renovated Baldinini boutique is now open at Moda Mall, offering a range of its latest collection of designer shoes and bags for women.

With a 100-year history, the Baldinini family, from Italy, took its first steps in footwear in 1910, making bespoke shoes entirely by hand.

Today those craft skills are still as important as ever and are interwoven with creative expertise inspired by world culture.

The brand has seen millions of pairs of shoes walk the planet and has more than a 100 Baldinini stores in some of the most exciting fashion hubs around the world.

Headed by Gimmi Baldinini, the brand’s creations attract attention and are instantly recognised.

They are the choice of a huge following of devotees and fashion enthusiasts.

Baldinini’s identity embraces the changing moods of trends and innovation in keeping with the times and transcends borders, observing and staying close to the tastes of its audience.

The varied collections are rich in details and solid tradition with a hint of madness, femininity and energy. For a designer like Gimmi, his creative ideal is to give a free rein to his imagination and craft skills.

“What’s my style today? It is, above all, a tribute to women’s beauty. I enjoy turning materials into emotions — but it took a 100 years,” says the designer.

E Call 17 535-086 or visit www.baldinini.it or Instagram baldinini_bh

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ASIA JEWELLERS

A Daredevil’s Partner When Felix Baumgartner skydived an estimated 39 kilometres, he was not only breaking world records and bending the laws of physics. He was also sporting a watch that was set to create a new standard for timepieces.

132 January 2014

The Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix aims to salute excellence and reward the finest creations in the watchmaking sector.

With 70 models competing in various categories, Zenith was honoured by the jury for the ‘Sports Watch’ category.

Like all models produced by the brand, this watch is in harmony with Zenith’s values — authenticity, daringness and pleasure. True to the Rainbow Flyback model developed for the French Air Force in 1997, the Stratos is equipped with the world’s most precise automatic chronograph movement, the legendary El Primero. This made the model the ideal partner for the exploit of Zenith’s ambassador — Felix Baumgartner.

In visual terms, the three different coloured counters are a reminder of the El Primero chronograph launched in 1969, equipped with a dial that was extremely unusual for the era and designed to improve its readability.

Other than the chronograph function, the El Primero Stratos is equipped with a ‘Striking 10th’ function to facilitate the tenth of a second display. Coupled with the flyback mode, it is particularly useful for aviation, as it allows pilots to stop, reset

to zero and restart the chronograph in a single movement.

During the Red Bull Stratos mission, Zenith watch was confronted with the most extreme conditions possible in terms of temperature, low pressure, speed, friction and impact. The brand is therefore the first to see one of its watches break the sound barrier on the very edge of space.

“We have often been in the vanguard of unexplored realms and have accompanied the craziest projects. It is this ability to suggest new ideas and to believe in the achievement of new technical developments that is the most fascinating thing about Zenith,” says Zenith CEO, Jean-Frédéric Dufour.

“Our watches have taken part in some of humanity’s greatest adventures, accompanying explorer Roald Amundsen on his discovery of the North and South poles, Mahatma Gandhi in his peaceful struggle for India’s independence and the fearless Colonel John Blashford-Snell on his many expeditions. Felix Baumgartner is made of the same stuff as these pioneers and we are very proud to have been able to be with him during what he has just achieved.” E Call 17 535-344.

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AXA INSURANCE

Absolute Protection Buying insurance is no longer a matter of privilege.

Protect yourself and your family with the complete range of personal insurance offerings from this insurance company.

Insurance provides an essential element of security which safeguards you against the unknown. It will meet your liability when you can’t afford to pay for unforeseen circumstances such as a car accident, the medical costs of a serious illness or theft.

For most people, insurance is a complex world and their knowledge is restricted to motor insurance, which is mandatory, and their medical insurance, which is often funded by their employer.

“The insurance sector is set to undergo a tremendous shift in the Middle East,” says Stephen Wagstaff, AXA Insurance country manager for Bahrain. “As people become more aware of the value of comprehensive insurance, this sector is likely to gain traction.”

Motor cover Motor insurance is the most competitive sector owing to the fact that it’s mandatory across the GCC. “Customers are very demanding at the time of the purchase and pricing remains a crucial factor,” says Stephen. “At AXA, we monitor and segment our pricing carefully in the most profitable areas. We don’t see why careless drivers should pay the same premium as good drivers, and hope the market will mature quickly in this field.”

Customers are increasing looking for added value covers such as priority repair service and service guarantees, but only AXA provides these.

Stay safe Home insurance has low penetration because the market either does not understand the benefits or is too lazy to purchase it.

“I think it’s vital to understand that the landlord’s insurance does not cover you or your home contents,” Stephen points out.

“Contents insurance covers things such as the furniture and/or

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electrical equipment and accessories such as curtains, carpets and garden implements.”

AXA Home Insurance covers not only the contents in the home but also provides you a personal liability protection. The insurance covers eventualities such as burst pipes, water leaks, fire, theft, storm, riot and strikes.

With AXA, you could get a comprehensive Home Insurance policy that costs less than 10 fils per day.

Health insurance Health insurance is now the fastest growing line of business for AXA as people are shielding themselves from the rising cost of health care treatments as well as looking for trustworthy insurers with a reliable service.

“Most countries in the Middle East and North Africa make employers liable for injuries and illnesses in the workplace but not all require mandatory insurance when there is no social insurance mechanism in place,” Stephen advises. “The introduction of such a requirement would both substantially increase protection and generate a social good.”

A joint programme by the industry and the government to educate the public about the role of insurance will generate greater trust in the sector, he feels.

Travel smart Travel insurance is growing aggressively within personal insurance segment, given the high volume of travel happening in the region, both in the leisure as well as business markets.

“As with other forms of coverage, our customers are increasingly showing a preference for buying their insurance online,” says Stephen.

E Call 8000 1060 or visit www.axa-gulf.com.

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marketplace CREDIMAX

Colour Your Life Leave your cash at home and carry your CrediMax card this year to win prizes every single day.

There has never been a better reason to utilise your CrediMax card. This year, customers will be eligible to win cash prizes every day and a brand-new Lexus every month if they make their purchases using a CrediMax Card. Bahrain’s first credit card issuer has launched a ‘Colour your Life’ rewards campaign throughout 2014 for the benefit of its loyal cardholders.

Any usage of BD10 or above on a CrediMax card enables the cardholder to enter the daily raffle once. Each one of the 365 winners in the year will walk away richer by US$500 each. If you spend BD500 in a month, you can enter the monthly raffle, where 11 winners will take home a Lexus ES350 through the first 11 months of the year. Any customer who has spent BD3,000 cumulatively during the year will be eligible for the grand raffle, where the lucky winner will drive away a Lexus LS 460L (2015 model).

The campaign runs from January 1 until December 31 and there will be a weekly draw to win cash prizes of US$500. The monthly draw to win a Lexux ES350 will take place in the first week of each month. The grand draw to win the Lexus LS 460L will be held in the first week of January 2015.

“Every year CrediMax brings its cardholders the best prizes and rewards,” says Yousif Ali Mirza, chief executive, CrediMax. “This year we have introduced the biggest card campaign ever full of attractive prizes. The ‘Colour your Life’ campaign is in line with our objective to maximise the benefits of card membership for customers and to reward their loyalty.”

Holders of CrediMax Platinum, Gold, and Classic, Visa, MasterCard and JCB cards are included in the raffle. Each raffle draw is independent of the previous draw, which means that a cardholder who won in a draw will be eligible for a subsequent draw, provided they maintain a good payment record wand no payment arrears at the time of draw. Cash prizes will be credited to the winners’ card accounts.

CrediMax is a pioneer in the credit card business in the Kingdom, starting life as a card centre within the retail division of the Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK). In April 1999, the card centre was spun off into a subsidiary of the bank in order to focus on the credit card line of business and enable it to expand further in the region.

Through its strategic alliances with renowned institutions, such as Visa, MasterCard and JCB, CrediMax has successfully positioned itself as a leading card issuer and is recognised around the world. E Call 17 117-117.

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HANI ROYAL HOTEL

Elegant Living Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers a contemporary and easy living environment for those seeking affordable luxury during their stay.

Only five minutes away from the Bahrain Financial Harbour and major shopping malls, and ten minutes from the international airport, Hani Royal Hotel offers an elegant and peaceful environment, unlikely to be seen anywhere else in its vicinity.

All 83 suites and rooms are designed keeping in mind modern comforts and are well suited for both business travellers and families alike.

Facilities include 24-hour room service, evening turndown, safety lockers, single touch dial phones, a 55-inch satellite TV, a minibar, and a tea and coffee maker. The rooms also boast luxurious linens and upholstery, toiletries and a magnificent view of the Manama skyline.

The hotel epitomises continental luxury and some of its suites are a great way to experience just that. The Royal Italian suite is a chic space with contemporary décor, with a master bedroom, Jacuzzi and panoramic views of the city.

The Royal Arabic Suite is an ode to the opulence of the region and has a master bedroom and Jacuzzi. The other standard room comes in twin- and single-bed choices.

Dine and relax The hotel provides many ways of experiencing its hospitality and grandeur. The food and beverage venues includes a fine dining restaurant, H, which features modern delicacies. For a

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more casual experience head to Dana Café. The hotel is known for its large selection of international cuisine and an extensive menu of authentic hot and cold preparations.

On the top floor is the spa with a number of wellness packages and relaxation therapies on offer. The centre’s modern oriental deco creates a calming atmosphere and plays a big role in soothing your senses. It features a fully-equipped gym, so that your workout regime remains uninterrupted.

Customer satisfaction Ensuring complete customer satisfaction lies at the core of the hotel’s operations. The staff has an anticipatory approach in meeting the needs of clients. Services such as complimentary airport transfer and WiFi make it a popular choice for the business traveller. The hotel provides a dedicated home office area, ensuring all your requirements are met, in the comfort of your own room. Private conference facilities can also be made upon request.

E Call 17 111-015 or visit www.haniroyalhotel.com.

January 2014 135

marketplace AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

A Royal Treatment It’s hard to give an objective account when your mind is clogged with a steady supply of happy hormones. We try and do our best after a visit to this luxurious spa.

Recipient of the best spa design and the best destination spa at the recently held Middle East Spa Awards in Dubai, the Al Areen Spa takes indulgence to new heights with their signature treatments.

When a package reads Royal Indulgence you can rest assured that it is exactly as the words promise.

The three-hour long session begins with a consultation over ginger tea and a soothing foot-cleanse. After this you proceed to the Rainmist, a warm shower that opens your skin’s pores and prepares the body for the treatments to follow. The therapist applies a ginger, lime and parsley scrub, deeply exfoliating your skin. This increases blood circulation, leaving a supple texture and glowing completion.

After another rain shower you head to the massage room for a soothing massage. Herbs wrapped in a linen cloth and soaked in hot sesame oil are rubbed on the skin, easing out muscular tension and leaves the skin deeply moisturised. This, accompanied by the masseurs’ skilful pressure techniques, leads to a blissful 60 minutes or so.

Following this there’s a pampering facial that both cleanses and nourishes your skin and, finally, the indulgence culminates with a long soak in a floral bath and refreshments.

The grandeur of the space is a large part of the whole experience; it works on your senses just as well as the luxurious products used for various treatments. The space, the smells in the air, the music and exceptional service make this spa trip worth every bit.

E Call 17 845-000

INTERCOL

Powerful Solutions Household chores can be stressful, but these two products prove that you don’t need an army of elves to achieve domestic bliss.

Rowenta has always been ahead in terms of providing fast and efficient products that suits people on the move. For those who seek convenience in ironing and steaming clothes, the brand offers two, top-quality products that get the job done — the IS6300 Master Valet Steamer and the IS6200 Compact Valet Steamer.

Meet the master With a ground-breaking design that offers streamline performance, the new full-size Rowenta IS6300 Master Valet Steamer is ideal for steaming garments and furnishings around the home. High steam output and wide diffusion provide for quick and efficient removal of wrinkles on clothes. An exclusive roll-and-press system offers vertical support similar to an ironing board, allowing for clothing to be pressed while steaming, thus optimising the ergonomics and improving efficiency.

Value and quality With the exclusion of the roll-and-press system, the Rowenta IS6200 Compact Valet Steamer has all the best features of its twin — the IS6300. An adjustable and collapsible pole delivers comfort and easy storage, while the built-in hanger, with rotating pants clips, makes steaming garments, like shirts and dresses, more convenient. Designed for those who seek a balance between value and quality, the IS6200 stands out and gives the best of both worlds.

E Call 17 291-537 and 17 364-238, or email to had.fmcg@intercol.com.

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SHAKAR TAILORING HOUSE

Made to Measure One of the better luxuries that life has to offer is custom-made clothes to accommodate your own requirements.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Nothing transcends sophistication and class quiet like a welltailored suit. Whether you are looking to make just the right impression at a business meeting or need to dress up for a special occasion, the most crucial element of a suit is its fit.

Shakar Tailoring House, with its history in making quality garments, offers custom-made suits. Keeping in mind the styleconscious modern man of today and his demands for quality attire, the company uses quality fabrics that truly complement your individual style and needs.

Suits being the cornerstone in men’s luxury wear, this longstanding establishment creates apparel that is made to last. Established in 1952, the company boasts the vast and varied experience of half a century. Not only has the brand grown in size, but it has also perfected the ability of tailoring in quality and quantity. With state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, Shakar is reputed for its exquisite eye for detail.

“We have a vast collection of proven, fashionable designs and patterns and can also individually tailor your own design. We use the quality fabrics from Holland and Sherry of Savile Row London as well as Scabal for our suits,” says owner, Aziz Shakar. The company also specialises in tailoring quality shirts using material from the high-end Italian brand Testa.

Many major hotel chains, airlines, schools, hospitals, defence forces, diplomats and business executives look to the menswear house for their suit and uniform productions.

“Every piece of fabric and every finished item are checked thoroughly before receiving the Shakar stamp of approval, is ready to be delivered and enjoyed,” adds Aziz. E Call 17 292-822.

January 2014 137

marketplace RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

Continuing Excellence Offering warm hospitality and great service, this hotel stands tall in the centre of Bahrain’s Adliya district.

High standards of service, great location and state-of-the-art facilities are some of the contributing factors to the popularity of Ramada Hotel Bahrain. The four-star hospitality venue offers a number of benefits to its guests, which has resulted in a loyal customer base comprising both discerning travellers and local clients.

The Wyndham Rewards Programme allows customers to earn points which can be redeemed for free stays, gift cards and merchandise. You can also earn airline miles with each qualifying stay.

Ramada’s dining venues are a big attraction. Le Jardin Restaurant, known for its inviting ambience, provides the perfect setting for a casual dinner. Boasting an extensive à la carte menu, this bistro offers a great selection of soups, salads, entrées and desserts.

The Exchange Restaurant & Pub is a great venue to sample pub dishes. You can watch your favourite sports, play billiards or shoot darts while sipping on some drinks with friends.

Take advantage of discounts on selected beverages during happy hours. If you rather have a more upbeat kind of an evening, listen to the resident band, Mystified that plays from 9pm onwards from Tuesdays to Sundays.

The hotel is an excellent venue to hold official meetings and conferences. It can accommodate small groups of up to 60 people. Additionally, the hotel provides catering service; so you can host a great party without going through any hassle and at a venue of your choice.

E Call 17 742-000.

bystanderthismonth

SKAL Club Dinner The SKAL Club hosted a dinner for members and guests at the K Hotel's Kenza Restaurant last month

Ibrahim, Hupert, Jasem, Ali, Mohammed, Buzizi, Volker, Jano & Peter

Jasim, Hisham, Tom & Panos

Waheed & Ali

138 January 2014

Ameena & Eliana

Mohammed Buzizi, George & Volker

Ahmed & Neman

Erma & Yousif

Damien

Mo & Anna

Hameed & Faris

Abdulla

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dr Bashar Saleh

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

A Vexing Condition The lifetime risk for developing a palpable thyroid nodule is estimated to be five to 10 per cent, and the condition affects more women than men.

The term ‘thyroid nodule’ refers to any abnormal growth that forms a lump in the thyroid gland. A nodule can occur in any part of the gland, which is located in the front of the neck, below the Adam’s apple.

Some can be felt quite easily; others can be hidden deep in the thyroid tissue or located very low in the gland, where they are difficult to find. Dr Bashar Saleh, consultant general and laparoscopic surgeon at Bahrain Specialist Hospital explains the condition and its treatment methods.

Types of thyroid nodules Thyroid nodules may be single or multiple. A gland that contains multiple nodules is referred to as a multinodular goitre. If the nodule is filled with fluid or blood, it is called thyroid cysts.

When the nodule produces the thyroid hormone in an uncontrolled manner without regarding the body’s needs, it is referred to as autonomous. This kind may cause signs and symptoms of too many thyroid hormones, or hyperthyroidism.

Less often, patients with a thyroid nodule may have too little thyroid hormones, or hypothyroidism.

“The most common types of single thyroid nodules are noncancerous colloid nodules or follicular adenomas. Few nodules are cancerous; they are classified by the types of malignant thyroid cells that they contain. The prognosis for the patient

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depends largely on the cell type and how far the cancer has spread at the time of diagnosis,” the doctor explains.

Thyroid nodules may contain lymphoma, a cancer of the cells of the immune system. Cancer from other sites, such as breasts and kidneys, can also spread to the thyroid. The cause of most thyroid nodules is unknown. In certain cases, insufficient iodine in the diet can cause thyroid to develop nodules. Certain genes may contribute to development of thyroid nodules.

Treatment methods Follicular nodules, highly suspicious for cancer, should be treated by surgery. Most thyroid cancers are curable and rarely cause life-threatening problems.

Any nodule that hasn’t been removed needs to be watched closely by follow up with the physician every six to 12 months.

This may involve a physical examination, ultrasound examination or both.

Occasionally, a physician may attempt to shrink the nodule by using suppressive doses of thyroid hormones.

“Some believe that if a nodule shrinks on suppressive therapy, it is more likely to be benign. If the nodule continues to grow regardless of the therapy, surgery should be considered,” Dr Bashar notes.

E Call 17 812-000.

January 2014 139

listingsthismonth Social Clubs

Arts Culture Art Galleries Al Riwaq Art Gallery Albareh Art Gallery Arabesque Art Gallery Art Lounge Ella Art Gallery

17 717-441 17 717-707 17 722-916 17 580-522 17 292-815

Art Galleries & Framing

Bahrain Art Framing Centre 17 717165 Lamarkiz Framing & Gallery 17 596-284

Arts & Cultural Groups

Alliance Française 17 683-295 Bahrain Arts Society 17 590-562 Contemporary Art Society 3 9224-002 Historical & Archaeological Society

17 727-895 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

17 230-123

Crafts

Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre Crafts Centre Gallery Celebrations L’Atelier Art Lounge Things-To-Do

17 611-900 17 254-688 17 595-791 17 599-030 17 590-409

Ballet Centre Ballare School Futureshape Studio Salsa Bahrain Sampaguita Club Victoria Dance Centre

17 693-232 17 300-021 17 590-088 3 9676-349 3 9106-589 3 987-6215

Dance

Drama, Film and Theatre

Bahrain Cinema Club 17 725-959 Dilmun Amateur Dramatics 17 690-926 Folk Poetry Society 17 761-000

Indian arts & culture

Institute for Performing Arts 17 231-717 Kalabhavan Bahrain Institute 17 717-271 17 243-511 Konkan Singers Club

Islamic Culture

Bapco Club Dilmun Club Filipino Club Marina Club Pakistan Club The British Club The Country Club The Indian Club The Sri Lanka Club The Young Goans Club

17 753-666 17 690-926 17 262-143 17 291-527 17 258-520 17 278-245 17 593-593 17 253-157 17 231-354 3 9455-207

Bhatia Mitra Mandal Kannada Sangha Karnataka Social Club Keraleeya Samajam Shree Nayrana Cultural Shri Gujarati Samaj Tamil Social Association

3 9601-789 17 271-257 17 254-257 17 251-878 17 255-517 3 9019-462 3 9603-564

Awali Caledonian Society Bahrain Irish Society Bahrain Welsh Society Royal Society of St. George

3 6366-458 3 9800-511 3 9467-310 3 9726-329

Other Indian clubs

Other Societies

Business Associations

17 645-156 17 261-555 17 531-400

Folk Poetry Society Pakistan Urdu Literary

17 761-000 17 776-629

Al Hayat Museum Al Oraifi Museum Currency Museum National Museum Oil Museum

17 290-101 17 535-112 17 547-700 17 298-777 17 753-475

Hash House Harriers Bahrain Road Runners

17 862-620 3 6992-288

Bahrain Music Institute Classic Institute of Music Manama Singers Sar Music Centre

17 721-999 17 728-791 17 642-119 17 794-898

British Club Netball Dilmun Netball Club Filipino Club Basketball Netball Club

Bowling

3 8357-181 3 9911-848 17 262-143 3 9911-848

Awali Bowling Centre

17 753-666

Awali Cricket Club

17 756-959

Awali Riding Club Riding School Shakhoora Riding Centre The Country Club

17 756-525 17 690-448 17 591-103 17 593-593

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football

17 692-378 17 695-809

Awali Golf Club Royal Golf Club

17 756-770 17 750-777

Gulf Speed 1 Kart Zone Silver Go Kart

3 9444-885 17 450-000 17 780-011

Sailing Club Yacht Club

17 836-078 17 700-667

Museums

Music

Photography

Awali Photo Society 17 764-468 Bahrain Photography Club 17 590-551

Pottery

Bahrain Pottery Society Studio Ceramics

Public Speaking

17 786-969 17 599-026

Manama Toastmasters Club 3 9451-182

Clubs Societies Ladies Clubs American Women’s Assoc. 17 685-882 Australasian Women (AWG) 3 8395-803 Awali Ladies Association 17 678-947 Business Women’s Society 17 721-188 Discover Islam Ladies 17 531-400 Hamad Town Women’s Association

17 422-005 Indian Ladies Association 17 531-468 International Ladies Group 17 729-128 Pakistani Women’s Assoc. 17 710-944 Young Ladies Society 17 262-237 Young Ladies Toastmasters 17 626-237 Women’s Society 17 826-777

140 January 2014

Mind Games

Bridge Club Bahrain Scrabble League

17 713-080 17 242-641

Dessange Health Club La Fontaine

17 713-999 17 230-123

Filipino Club Tennis Group Table Tennis Club Tennis Club The Country Club

3 9527-587 17 729-756 17 729-561 17 593-593

Pilates

Racket games

Snooker

Jimmy’s Snooker/Billiards 17 71 6-147

National Associations

Amateur Athletic Association 17 684-905 American Chamber Comm. 17 580-516 Badminton & Squash Fed. 17 292-662 Australian Association 3 9206-432 Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Bar Society 17 725-665 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Bankers’ Society of Bahrain 17 728-003 17 741-010 Basketball Association British Business Forum 3 9651-755 Bowling Association 17 822-077 Businessmen’s Association 17 229-009 Chess Federation 17 252-133 French Business Club 17 748-999 17 650-079 Cycling Association Language Courses Disabled Sports Federation 17 789-191 Alliance Française 17 683-295 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Berlitz 17 827-847 Football Association 17 729-563 The British Council 17 261-555 Handball Association 17 720-321 Other Associations 17 253-209 Hockey Association Baloch Club 17 292-231 Maritime Sports Association 17 836-078 Garden Club 17 727-625 Martial Arts Association 17 650-676 Pakistan Association 3 9415-200 Mind Sports Association 17 340-016 Skal International Bahrain 17 22-4050 Shooting & Fencing Assoc. 17 750-006 17 825-301 Snooker Association Sports Recreation Swimming Association 17 680-867 Aerobics Table Tennis Association 17 729-393 Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Volleyball Association 17 271-139 Curves Fitness Clinic for Women

17 691-496 Teens Kids 17 692-378 Ez Fit SportPlex Athletics World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576 Road Runners 3 6992-288

Al Bayan Society Beit Al Quran Discover Islam

Literature

Ghassan’s Style Kickboxing 3 9458-293 Karate Centre 3 9247-769 17 813-856 Taichi & Wushu Center Japan Karate Association 17 591-237 3 9690-008 Marina Club Reza Martial Arts Centre 17 694-646 3 9626-211 Shotokan Karate World Beat Fitness Center 17 612-576 Yong Quan Tha Chi 3 9667-624 17 611-909 Zen-Do Bahrain

Athletics/Running Ball Games

Cricket

Equestrian

Football & Rugby Golf

Karting

Marine Sports Martial Arts

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Bahrain Karate Center 17 612-576 Bin Jamal Taekwondo Center 3 6222-892 Delmon Taekwondo School 3 9689-659 Futureshape Studio 17 592-019

Dance

Ballet Centre 3 9676-349 Victoria Dance Centre 3 9876-215 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

Cricket

Ez-Fit SportPlex SLC grounds, Riffa

17 692-378 17 276-134

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football The Country Club

17 692-378 17 695-809 17 593-593

Football & Rugby Horse Riding

Fitness Plus Physique Fitness Centre World Beat Fitness Centre 24-hour Fitness

17 593-593 17 694-646 17 612-576 17 716-999

Bodyline Spa Coral Beach Club La Fontaine Spa Massage Centre

17 793-932 17 312-777 17 230-123 17 264-064

Ann Beauty Center and Spa Bellacura Beauty Lounge Dessange Spa Futoon Beauty & Fitness Pineapple Spa Profile Fitness Centre Wellness Resort Zoya Beauty Centre

17 623-704 17 364-955 17 713-999 17 777-994 17 712-000 17 727-766 17 795-961 17 740-800

Art of Living Foundation

39 653-007

Fitness Gyms

Health Spas (Women only)

Meditation Centres

Bahrain Wellness Centre Bayoga Centre Meditation Centre Physiotherapy Centre World Beat Fitness Centre

17 795-961 39 460-996 17 712-545 17 722-012 17 612-576

Health Clubs (Hotels)

Banyan Tree Resort & Spa 17 845-000 Crowne Plaza Health Club 17 531-122 17 535-000 Golden Tulip Health Club 17 713-000 Gulf Hotel Health Club Le Mirage, Diplomat Hotel 17 531-666 17 227-777 Regency Fitness Centre 36 270-302 RJ’s, Ramee Int'l Hotel 17 524-570 Sheraton Fitness Sporting Club, Ritz-Carlton 17 580-000 The Gym, Mövenpick Hotel 17 460-000

Kids Fitness Centres

Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports (CHAOSS) 17 592-096 17 566-566 My Gym Bahrain

QR Codes: On-The-Go Reading You can now read Bahrain This Month while you are out and about, from the comfort of your own phone — just simply download a free app which allows you direct access to the online magazine. Both iPhone, iPad2 and BlackBerry users can enjoy this simple convenience by following these simple steps;

iPhone/iPad2 users Step 1: Search for i-nigma on the Apple app store Step 2: Download i-nigma on your iPhone or Pad, free of charge Step 3: After downloading is complete, click on the i-nigma icon Step 4: Finally, simply scan the QR code to be directed to a page on the designated page on the web

Awali Riding Club 17 756-525 Dilmun Club 17 692-986 Riding School 17 690-448 Shakhoora Riding School 17 591-103 The Country Club 17 593-593

Marine & Sailing Sailing Club Yacht Club

Martial Arts

17 700-677 17 700-677

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Al Hala Sports Club 3 9966-139 Balouch Club 17 292-231 British Club 17 728-245 Delmon Tae Kwon Do School 3 9689-659 Taichi & Wushu Centre 3 6437-931

Health Fitness Fitness Gyms

Al Gosaibi Gym Coral Beach Club Dessange Health Club Ez-Fit Sportsplex Ghassans Gym

17 293-221 17 312-777 17 713-999 17 692-379 17 695-911

BlackBerry users Step 1: Search for ‘QR Code Scanner Pro’ in the Blackberry app world, either online or directly from your phone Step 2: Download the app, free of charge Step 3: Click on the application and scan the code Step 4: On scanning, you will be directed to site referenced in the QR code There are two QR codes used this issue; on the front cover, on First Word (page 11).

www.bahrainthismonth.com

winwin

Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

AD SEEK

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.

1 2

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Who is the UK Navy commander? ___________________________ Where is an Arts Festival being held? ___________________________ Who is celebrating their 30th anniversary? ___________________________ When will Great British Week be held? ___________________________

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

Who got it right?

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

Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: Winner : Edna Mendiola Second Place : Shabana Muzabar Third Place : Keithryn Casipong

Last month’s solutions

1.

1. Dr Jarno Kotilaine 2. Mövenpick Hotel 3. Cucina Italiana 4. December 26-28 5. Dilmun Club 6. Ford Raptor

5

6

Where can you find ‘It’s A Knockout’? ___________________________

7. Mannai Holding

Which car did we test drive? ___________________________

Ad Seek

8. The Domain Bahrain 9. Cameo 10. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Hotel

2.

1. Fuji/Sheza Tower Hotel 2. Brazil 3. National Day Celebration

7

8

9 10

Who is the new Gulf Hotel general manager? ___________________________ Where can you find Cornelia Poletto? ___________________________ What is our app this month? ___________________________ Which car is painted with a Union Jack? ___________________________

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4. Shakar Tailoring House

Name:

Address:

3.

Telephone:

Email:

cpr:

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

4.

January 2014 141

tarotscopethismonth

Capricorn Dec 22 – Jan 21

No matter how much your head keeps telling you to turn away from a difficult situation this month, your heart appears to have other ideas and is advising you to do the opposite. This is strange for a sign like yours, whose earthy roots usually ensure that your feet are kept firmly on the ground. It is, perhaps, testament to the fact that you are obviously very emotionally driven by the current dilemma of your situation. How things are set to develop is as of yet uncertain but one thing is for sure: it won’t go quite how you might expect it to.

Those of you looking for a new job may be frustrated by the lack of opportunities that have come your way but don’t be surprised if an unplanned meeting on the 10th January opens a career door you may never have considered.

Card of the Month — The Chariot For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Aquarius ­January 19 – ­February 20 Love is in the air this month and it will take many guises and have many positive outcomes. Some of you will find new romance at work when a new colleague takes a shine to you and you soon realise the feeling is mutual. For those of you already involved, a relationship could be about to move up to the next level when you are approached about making a more serious commitment. Think hard and don’t let desperation influence your decision. You should know what you want as soon as the question is put to you. If you hesitate or suffer even a moment’s doubt, then you already have your answer.

Card of the Month — The Knight of Swords

pisces February 21 – March 20 A former partner is going to cause you a few financial worries as you head into the New Year and you may be forced to seek legal advice if he or she does not adhere to their financial responsibilities. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind to get the issue dealt with but prepare for fireworks on the 15th when matters could come to a head. On the family front, responsibility for a planned birthday get together may end up in your lap when you discover that a sibling has pulled out over a clash of personalities.

Try to keep things diplomatic or it could get ugly! On the work front, an interesting proposal on the 21st is worth considering.

Card of the Month — The Moon

142 January 2014

Aries March 21 – April 20 Love is the primary subject on your mind this month. If someone had told you that your life was going to change dramatically when it comes to relationships, you would probably have dismissed the idea as pure nonsense. However, following on from the turmoil and upheaval of a recent, acrimonious break up, only now will you be able to lift your head above the line of debris and confusion that has surrounded you and start to make plans to put your world back on track once more. Thankfully, the support of family and friends is going to make it a whole lot easier and before too long you’ll be able to move forwards with a little more purpose in your step.

Card of the Month — The Page of Cups

Taurus ­April 21 – May 20 Your New Year is likely to kick off with a bang when you find yourself pulled into a rather awkward dispute this month, when a friend turns to you for assistance in a family matter and ends up getting you more deeply involved then you would like. It doesn’t help that you know everyone on a personal level but you shouldn’t allow this to cloud your judgement.

It is important for you to be honest for the sake of everyone concerned. Health-wise you should stop putting off any planned visit to the opticians and get your eyes tested; don’t let vanity be the reason for your hesitancy because the problem might not just be a simple case of you needed glasses.

Card of the Month — The Queen of Cups

Gemini May 21 – June 20 Financially you will have just enjoyed one of the most profitable months of the year and much of your success can be attributed to good, honest hard work. You are mid-way through a carefully scheduled plan and there is every indication that things will only get better as we move into the first quarter of 2014. A recent change of direction in the work place has seen you get back to your very best and your superiors will note your progress. All in all, the picture is a rosy one. The only note of caution for you could be if you engage a colleague to help take your project onto the next level.

Card of the Month — The Three of Swords

cancer June 21 – July 20 After a productive November you could see yourself hit a bit of a creative brick wall this month. In part this could have something to do with an awkward exchange you fell into recently with a loved one that has left you a little unsettled. If you want to get yourself back on track then you need to consider putting the matter to bed by dealing with it once and for all. The implications extend far beyond anything you might realise and if you let things drag on too far into the New Year then you might find others decide to take the initiative, which won’t help you at all in the long run.

Card of the Month — The Devil

LEO July 21 – August 21 You may be planning a trip away in January, perhaps to spend time with relatives abroad but caution is advised if taking along small children. Watch them closely since a wandering infant may give you cause for concern. A rocky period at work could lie ahead and you are best to keep your head down and continue with your duties without paying too much attention to what is going on around you. As long as you perform all that is required of you, you will ride the storm without too much bother. If you have any objects of art or family heirlooms then now would be a good time to seek out a valuation. This is could turn out to be an excellent start to the New Year, setting you up for a positive 2014.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Swords

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advertisersindex virgo August 22 – September 21 January sees you finally putting the ghost of an enemy or rival to rest as the troublesome person finally moves out of your life forever. However, their departure could impact on a romance that has been developing well, with a secret that comes out in the open causing great friction. Beware of the words you speak idly in dealing with this. Try to respond with a more measured reply or your comments could come back to haunt you later. On a more positive note, employment matters will see you moving into a new position, or fresh areas of responsibility. For the first time in a while you will feel good about your work again.

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man

libra September 22 – October 21 Times may be tough out there for many people but this January you are set to enjoy a fabulous return on a recent investment that appears to have emerged unscathed from the credit crunch and its resulting impact. Just remember to give a little to those closest to you, who supported and stood by you when times may have not been so good. On the health front, get those twinges in your lower back or thigh looked at sooner rather than later. In the latter part of the month you may get a job offer that proves too good to turn down; but, before you jump in headfirst take a look at the small print!

Card of the Month — Justice

Scorpio October 22 – November 21 This January could see your thoughts with a loved one who is far away from you but nevertheless on your mind more than ever. A planned family reunion that fell through back in October has left you thinking about what could have been and you still find it a sour taste to swallow.

On a more positive note, recent health concerns will be alleviated and you can begin to look ahead with more confidence as you are once again given a clean bill of health. Late January will see a letter in the mail return some forgotten memories and a face from the past could soon follow your surprise in the post!

Card of the Month — The Three of Pentacles

Sagittarius ­November 22 – December 21 A recent loss in the family is really only starting to emotionally hit you now and it has triggered off a change in your inner-self. You may find yourself reflecting on life and thinking about the purpose you have in it and, maybe, even decide to make a career change. Any role in volunteer or social work might prove temporarily satisfying but the real need you have is for emotional fulfilment. If you are presently in a relationship then it is worth re-assessing the state it is in. Alternatively, if you are currently looking to begin a new relationship then tread carefully and do not rush in just to satisfy a desire.

Card of the Month — The Page of Pentacles

2014 annual tarotscope review What does this year have in store for you?

Well, you can find out by going online and reading our annual review of your horoscope.

Discover what is in store for you when it comes to Love, Money, Health and Career Prospects.

Whether you are a Virgo seeking romance, a Gemini looking for a cash boost or a Capricorn looking for a change in career path, all is revealed by our resident voyeur, Raphael.

To view your own star sign for 2014, visit www.bahrainthismonth.com/

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Use the QR code below to view your horoscope from your mobile device.

Fashion & Footwear Baldinini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Kia Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 MotoringGCC.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 National Motors (Cadillac) . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Financial Institutions

Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons (Nissan) . . . . . . 39

Arab Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Others

AXA Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . . . 107 bnl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Citibank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Credimax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Mednet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Al Aali Shopping Complex . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Alliance Française. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Amwaj Marina Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Bahrain City Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Bahrain International Airshow . . . . . . . . 17 Bahrain Science Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Hotels & Luxury Apartments

Chuckle Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Al Areen Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Home Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Hani Royal Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Diet Mealz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Intercol (Rowenta). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Little Picassos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Ramee International Hotel . . . . . . . . . . 108

Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Ramee Palace Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Jewellery & Watches

Shakar Tailoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Asia Jewellers (Panerai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Restaurants & Cafés

Asia Jewellers (Rayond Weil) . . . . . . . . 25

Al Arisha Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Sharif Group (Momo Design) . . . . . . . . . 13

Aroma Café & Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Block 338 Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Medical & Dental Services

Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Motoring

Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Ahmed Zayani & Sons (Bentley) . . . . . . .IFC

Maki Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

La Cucina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Almoayyed Motors (Lincoln) . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Rayes Lebanese Restaurant . . . . . . . . . IBC

Ebrahim K. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Vapiano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Euro Motors (Land Rover) . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Telecommunications

First Motors (Hyundai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, Saar ● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop ● BooksPlus, all outlets ● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Park Supermarket, Mahooz ● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai ● Other leading Cold Stores and

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

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from National Photo Services, Gudaibiya 17 742-955.

January 2014 143

144 January 2014

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lastword No sex please, we’re British!

Ah…. The Brits!

JAMES CLAIRE I can forgive people many things, being British among them. I hope that does not sound too harsh, some of my best friends are British — on Facebook that is. I would never admit to any in real life!

144 January 2014

A few of my bosses are British. Wonderful chaps. After six years I’m still awaiting to hear a “Thank you, old sport” or “Job well done, chap” from any of them. But they’re British, I can forgive them for a lot.

Being Australian is possibly the worst thing to be when one’s bosses are from the motherland. We are, after all, the progeny of prisoners that they sent to the Antipodes so they could forget us, and to ‘uncrowd’ their burgeoning prisons several 100 years ago. Basically I am a daily reminder of their past and how successful us prisoners made it in the New World. I think they wish they had come, too. It doesn’t rain so much down under.

Growing up in Australia allowed us an opportunity to travel to the Great British Isles and to work there for two years under visa rules of the time. Stay a day late and you were surreptitiously relabelled a convict and shipped home. I stayed just upon the granted time and was so in love with all things British by then; all I wanted for the next decade was to return.

Thankfully that wore off once I began to see other countries, especially those where the British had not invaded, plundered and inflicted their beliefs, rule and parliamentary system upon.

I Love Cuba!

I surely jest though. I love the Brits and their …ummh! Let me start that again.

British are wondrous folk. If it were not for the British we would not have pie and peas, fruitcake, Yorkshire pudding and apple crumble. If it were not for the British, Singapore would not have an amazing cricket club.

Britain has given us great comedy. If any country can look at themselves and see what funny chaps they are, it’s surely the Brits. Fawlty Towers, Dad’s Army and Only Fools and Horses are some of the funniest shows around.

All of them decades old, but that’s the British way. They love everything vintage and antique. Shows on television today will be popular 40 years from now.

Antiques Roadshow is the perfect example of a show which never ages in England.

When I first travelled to London my father reminded me to enjoy the great leaps forward in consumerism and technology that Britain was renowned for. He wanted me to go to HMV and enjoy music like it should sound. Lucky I did because they went broke a few years later.

Sadly, Great Britain has seen a number of lost battles of late.

Jaguar and Land Rover are now in the hands of the India’s Tata Motors. Cadbury Chocolates has been swallowed by Kraft Foods of America. Harrods is run by the Qataris. Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason and The Savoy are all famed British brands owned by Canadians.

To those British amongst us, forgive my flippancy and humour this month. I truly do love you all, and appreciate the British additions to our lives — warm beer, beef Wellington, sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, tea with cookies, and Lady Diana. I truly hope to connect with a few more of you… on Facebook, though!

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