Bahrain This Month - January 2015 by Red House Marketing

2015 CAR MODELS | FINE DINING | JULIA VOLKOVA

www.bahrainthismonth.com

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

January 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 1

THE CAT IN THE HAT

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

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Issue 209

Contents January 2015 23

COVER STORY The Cat in The Hat

Katie Mitchell’s acclaimed stage adaptation of Dr Seuss’s ‘The Cat in the Hat’ will grace the shores of Bahrain this month after a successful stint in the UK.

HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of January 2015: 24

Bahrain’s Biggest Shopping Bonanza Returns:

Autumn Fair 2015 gets under way.

Bahrain’s Eco-friendly Heritage on Display: Expo Milano 2015

Express Yourself!:

The 41st Annual Fine Arts Exhibition comes to town. 30

Debut Solo Exhibition:

Lebanese-German artist Amal Deyhle will exhibit her work. 32

Early bird tickets for F1:

Bahrain International Circuit launches early bird discounted tickets for the 2015 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. 34

Laughter Galore:

Chuckle Club, is starting 2015 on a high note by launching a GCC wide tour. 24-28

Calendars:

Events during January

INTERVIEWS Trash into Treasure

Eco-conscious upcyclist Vrushali J is encouraging the Kingdom to help bridge the gap between art and waste with her creative crafts.

That’s a Wrap

Entrepreneurial Saudi Nehal Alomari is offering a useful service tied neatly in a bow.

Catch of The Day

Sager Shaheen’s Asmak fish farm is scaling new heights in its mission to ensure food security for the Kingdom.

24 Bystander This month our Bystander pages record the 81st Birthday of the Japanese Emperor with a special celebration. The Gulf Hotel’s 45th anniversary celebrations was attended by the great and the good and seasonal celebrations were in full swing. We also attended the closing ceremony of the 12th Kingdom Match Race Regatta.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Modern Living at its Best

IDdesign’s managing director, Naeem Karmustaji reveals the company’s 10th anniversary plans.

Aiming High

Habib Ebrahim, founder and chief executive officer of Events House, talks about The Bahrain Schools Expo 2015.

Shareef’s New Role

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa recently welcomed a new director of sales and marketing, Shareef Kharouba.

The Suite Life

Selim Nseir, Fraser Suites’ new general manager, takes up his role with gusto.

JLR Backseat Chat

Jaguar Land Rover Backseat Chat – George F Middleton talks with DJ Outlaw. January 2015 3

EXPERIENCE THE NEXT LEVEL OF LUXURY

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Issue 209

Contents January 2015 LIFESTYLE Motoring Round Up: Shifting Gears:

61-62

The Kingdom’s petrol heads are gearing up for 2015 and the immanent arrival of new models from Bahrain’s biggest motoring companies.

Motoring:

Best-in-class Horsepower:

The new 2015 Dodge Challenger unveiled. 65

Ready for Action:

The new Cayenne has arrived at Porsche Centre Bahrain. 66-67

Off-road Adventure:

Mercedes-Benz makes its mark at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Advanced New Line-up:

Kumho has rolled out a new range of its most technologically advanced tyres.

A New Legacy:

Turning Heads:

The Subaru Legacy has been completely re-designed for 2015. The BMW X6 is set to make a huge impression on the Kingdom.

Downtime:

73 Showcase: Lulu Hypermarket gadgets 74-75 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 76 Music: Just Dance 77 Computer Games: Give it a Go 78 Websites: Built to mix it up 79 Apps: Money Talks 80 Movies: A Most Violent Year

Dining:

Savouring a Legacy:

Paul’s continues to dish up quality offerings

82 Dining Happenings 83-84 Fine Dining Feature 96 Restaurant Listing

After Dark:

From Russia With Love:

A throwback to the past with an evening of pop 100

Happenings:

Where to be seen around town when the sun sets 102

Theme Nights

Showcase: 75

103

What’s New:

104

Marketplace:

Must-have products Latest products and services

Regulars:

82 www.bahrainthismonth.com

103

117 WIN WIN 118 Tarotscope 119 AD Index 120 Last Word

January 2015 5

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THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month January 2015

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Consultant Stan Szecowka Editor Charlie Holding Commercial Editor Apple Sharma Assistant Editors Ankita Mamgain, Georgie Bradley

Dear Readers,

Events Editor Hanna Moore

Welcome to another new year! Reflecting on our hopes and resolutions for the future is definitely on the cards as January begins. Whatever outcomes were experienced in 2014, the excitement and potential of the new year allows us to realign our perspectives both positively and enthusiastically. Yes, 2015 is upon us and while flying cars have (disappointingly) not yet become commonplace, you can check out the new offerings from the Kingdom’s leading automotive companies in our special motoring round up. Also featured this month is our fine dining round up which sees Bahrain’s favourite destinations for posh nosh under the spotlight. From 5-star hotels to sophisticated boutiques, we’ve compiled them all. A stage production of childhood favourite The Cat in the Hat is making its way to the island, much to the delight of young and old alike. So, round up the kids and get ready for a fun-filled day with the family. Check out snippets from our exclusive Backseat Chat interview with one of the Kingdom’s most-loved performers, DJ Outlaw. He chats to George F Middleton about his accomplishments in 2014 and ambitious plans for the new year. Our interview section this month is packed. Sager Shaheen makes a splash in the Kingdom with his Asmak Fish Farm and talks to us about his dream to provide food security to Bahrain. Also under the spotlight this month is Selim Nseir, Fraser Suites’ new general manager, who reveals his plans for his new role. IDdesign is celebrating its 10th anniversary in the Kingdom. BTM talks to the company’s managing director, Naeem Karmustaji, to find out about the its plans for 2015. Editor Charlie Holding took the new JAC J5 sedan for a spin around the island and reveals why this Chinese marque’s reputation is growing so rapidly. He also put Mercedes-Benz range of SUVs to the test off-road at the Bahrain International Circuit. Get your shopping trolleys ready as Bahrain’s most popular annual bazaar, the Autumn Fair 2015, gets under way. Another event to look forward to this month is the 41st Annual Fine Arts Exhibition. Optimism dictates that possibilities are endless and potential unlimited, but what we really hope for all of our readers, above all else, are the fundamentals of wellbeing; peace, love and happiness — Your Guide to A Great Way of Life !

Contributor James Claire Bystander Editor Aisha Siddiqa Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel Staff Photographer Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Katherine Lao Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain Published monthly by

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

COVER Cover Picture:

The Cat in the Hat

•

Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month. 2015 CAR MODELS | FINE DINING | JULIA VOLKOVA

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

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THE CAT IN THE HAT

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January 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 1

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Nightlife

January 2015 7

bystander

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa presents Yusuff Ali with Wessam Al Bahrain (Medal of Bahrain – Order of the King). His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa presented prominent Indian businessman and managing director of Lulu Group, Yusuff Ali, with Wessam Al Bahrain (Medal of Bahrain – Order of the King). His Majesty presented the award to Mr Ali for his contribution to the progress of the Kingdom during a function held at the Royal Palace in Manama as part of Bahrain’s 43rd National Day celebrations. This marked the first time in the history of the country that a non-Bahraini was conferred with this prestigious honour.

10th Bahrain Universities Model United Nations Conference 2014

His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa presents an award to BUMUN Secretary General Mohammed Alam

Rahad, Raghad & Nashwa

Under the patronage of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports Chairman, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the 10th Bahrain Universities Model United Nations (BUMUN) Conference 2014 was held at the Sheraton Hotel, Bahrain. Aseel, Mohammed & Paul Abdulla & HE Ahmed Shahzan Abdulsamad

Doris, HE Taha Mahmoud Abdulqader, HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran & Shaikha Rana Al Khalifa

8 January 2015

Basma, Muneera, Sara & Layla

Rahima, Sulaiman, Sultan, Khalid, Ahmed, Awadh & Monia

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bystander

81st Birthday of the Japanese Emperor The Embassy of Japan in Bahrain celebrated Emperor Akihitoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 81st birthday at Al Ghazal Ballroom in The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. Cutting the ceremonial cake

x Homa Jawahari & HE Hatun Demirer

HE Abdullah Rashid Al-Medalwi, HE Kiyoshi Asako, HE Ahmed Shahzan Abdul Samad & HE Taha Abdul Qader

HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, Bjarne & Konstantinos

Meeji & HE Yu Joonha

Sadiq Dawani & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

10 January 2015

Humbert, Zeenat, Isa & Faisal Jawad

Sam, Mr & Mrs Richard & Tracy

HE Alberto Vecchi

Jaap

HE Azzam bin Mubarak Al Sabah & Hamad Al Zayani

Abe, Yrata & Yanai

HE Vichai Varasirikul & HE Sahid Glang

Farooq Almoayyed & Alma

Dr Abdulla & HE Li Chen

Khalil

Vice Admiral Miller

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‫ﺟــﺎﺋـــــــﺰﺓ ﺍﻟﺒـــﺤـــــﺮﻳـــــــﻦ ﻟـــﺮﻳـــــــﺎﺩﺓ ﺍﻷﻋــﻤـــــــﺎﻝ‬

The Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship

Celebrating Entrepreneurship. Inspiring Innovation. The inaugural Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship will recognise the achievements of Bahrain’s most outstanding entrepreneurs and their impact on driving the Kingdom’s socio-economic growth and prosperity.

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN! Submit Online at www.BahrainAE.com

In partnership with:

Knowledge Advisors:

bystander

HE Dr. Shaikh Suleiman bin Ali Al Jabri, Omani Ambassador to Bahrain & HE Shaikh Azzam bin Mubarak Al Sabah, Kuwaiti Ambassador to Bahrain.

Thai National Day The Embassy of Thailand in Bahrain celebrated the Thai National Day and the 87th birthday anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej in Crowne Plaza Bahrain. Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Khalifa, HE Shaikh Azzam bin Mubarak Al Sabah, Shaikh Khalifa bin Rashid Al Khalifa, HE Vichai Varasirikul & Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa cut the anniversary cake

Tosin, Ari, Sukma, Mirra, Omruthi, Shanjitha & Rantha

HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador to Bahrain, HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador to Bahrain & HE Ahmed Rachid Khatabi, Moroccan Ambassador to Bahrain

Chaiya, Stewart & David

Gernot Taufmann, HE Sabine Taufmann, Jaleel Al Ansari, Ahmed Jawahari & Ebrahim Kooheji

Paween, HE Vichai Varasirikul, Kareem Al Shakar, Pakoran & Hathai

Maria & Chais

12 January 2015

Ahmed Jawahari & Jawad Al Hawaj

Gernot Taufmann, Bridget Lindsay & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Sarosh & Pakoran

Sara & Cherry

George & Nancy

Yuthanavi

Mohammed Dadabhai, HE Mohammed Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador to Bahrain, Ahmed Jawahari, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador to Bahrain & Sadiq Dawani

Nasser & Sameera

Ebrahim Kooheji, HE Ahmed Shahzan Abdulsamad, Malaysian Ambassador to Bahrain & David

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bystander

Bahrain India Society Welcome Dinner

HE Dr Mohan Kumar addresses the guests

Sree Ram

Chandrajeet

Mohammed Dadabhai

Mr Bin Hindi

Mr Thomas

Jassim Al Zayani

Ratinder

Khalid Kanoo

Vijay

Jawad Al Hawaj

The Bahrain India Society hosted a welcome dinner ahead of the Arab-Asia Partnership Summit for dignitaries and prominent Bahraini and Indian businessmen. The event was held at the Al Fanar Ballroom at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Anisa Dadabhai, Mala Kumar & Shaikha Hind Al Khalifa

Shabbir, Mohammed & Kishore

Tony & Steve

Reem, Dana & Dalal

Andy & Gareth

Unkar, Hatim & Zubair

Charles Russell Speechlys Festive Reception Charles Russell Speechlys held its annual festive reception at the British Embassy gardens in Manama. James, HE Iain Lindsay & Rushdi

David, Olive, Karen, Steve & Tony

14 January 2015

Shaikh Salman Al Khalifa & John

Nabeel

Patrick

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bystander

TJ, Mark & Rich

Sky & Aaron

Geoff, Gordon & Gavin

Capt. Sal & Alan

Charity Rugby Match at Bahrain Rugby Football Club The celebrated Scottish Cancer Crusaders visited the island en route to Dubai and played against the newly-formed Bahrain Cancer Warriors at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club. John, Mehdi & Michael

Jamie & Ronnie

Fiona & Maggie

Dixie, Dave & Vinod

DHL Dinner in Support of Movember In support of Movember, DHL hosted a charity dinner at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club in Janabiya. The event also included the annual Movember charity shave-off for supporters of the global menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cancer awareness campaign.

Suzette, Damian & Chantel

Steve & Mehdi

Jennifer, Ed & Jen

Natalia & Marina

Jennifer, Marcus & Lizanne

Patrick & Andy

Andrew, Caroline & Mike

Ewan, Mehdi, Phil & Steve

Karen, Kim & Wendy

Mick & Fi

Eibhlin, Jonty & June

Marielle & Katie

16 January 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Farooq, Amal & Ahmed

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain 45th Anniversary The legendary 5-Star hotel in the heart of the island recently celebrated its 45th anniversary. VIPs pose by the anniversary cake

Mona, Awatif & Aziza

Ahmed & Mustafa

Mrs Raees, Afaf & Jill

Jaleel Al Ansari, Susie & Nabil

HE Helman Arisman, Indonesian Ambassador to Bahrain & Ratna

Fouzi & Ahmed

Hassan, HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran & Ahmed

Mohammed, Farooq & Faisal

Alex & Nadeem

HE Vichai Varasirikul, Thai Ambassador to Bahrain & Ebrahim

Yvonne, Didiane & George

Othman, Jassim & Farooq

Chantel & Sarah

Henry & Neman

Anne, Val & Pauline

Rami, Yasmin & Zaher

Shaheed & Layla

18 January 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Mahmood & Yasmin

Turgay & Zuhal

Fatema & Nawal

Najwa & Layla

DHLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual National Day Reception DHL Bahrain organised its annual National Day celebrations at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. Mohammed, HE Shaikh Azzam bin Mubarak Al Sabah, Kuwaiti Ambassador to Bahrain & Abdulla Al Mazen

Ahmed, Firas & Khalid

Hanadi, Emad & Svetlana

Rasha, Leqaa & Zuhal

15th Hypertension and Cardiovascular Highlight Session Bahrain Specialist Hospital organised the 15th Hypertension and Cardiovascular Highlight Session at The Gulf Hotel Bahrainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Awal Hall.

Recognition for the onsite and organizing members

Recognition for the sponsors

20 January 2015

Bahrain This Month awarded Appreciation Certificate

Recognition for the chairs and moderators

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JANUARY 2015 . HAPPENINGS INTERNATIONAL PRODUCTION HITS BAHRAIN

Katie Mitchell’s acclaimed stage adaptation of Dr Seuss’s ‘The Cat in the Hat’ will grace the shores of Bahrain this month after a successful stint in the UK. When? January 20-22 Venue? Cultural Hall

Event? Stage Performance

Young or old, we’ve all heard of the adventures of Dr Seuss’s mischievous feline character, Cat in the Hat. So, round up the kids and get ready for a fun-filled day with the family as one of UK’s renowned stage productions comes to the island this month. This new production of The Cat in the Hat was first presented to sold out crowds at the 2014 Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the 2015 tour will visit 30 venues across the UK, as well as play a short run in Bahrain from January 20 to

January 22 at the Cultural Hall. The shows on January 20 and 21 will be held at 8.45am and 10.30am and on January 22 at 8.45am, 10.30am and 4.30pm. Based on the much-loved book by Dr Seuss, The Cat in the Hat is a lively and engaging first theatre experience for young children aged two years and over. From the moment his tall, redand-white-striped hat appears around the door, Sally and her brother know that The Cat in the Hat is the funniest, most

mischievous cat they have ever met. With the trickiest of tricks and craziest of ideas, he turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. But what will mum find when she gets home? The Cat in the Hat was first published in 1957 as Dr Seuss’s second book for children. It marked the transition of Theodor Seuss Geisel from successful advertising executive and political cartoonist to world-famous illustrator and children’s author. The curious and intricate rhyming found in the story is still adored decades later, with more than 250 million copies sold worldwide in more than 20 different languages. The show was originally produced in 2009 by the National

Theatre of Great Britain, adapted and originally directed by Katie Mitchell. This new production is directed by Lillie Collier, designed by David Shields and produced by Paul Taylor-Mills Ltd. It is presented through special arrangement with Josef Weinberger Plays Ltd on behalf of Music Theatre International. Tickets are available at Havajava in Manazel and Alosra supermarkets, priced at BD15. A special family package of four tickets is priced at BD50 and special school packages are also available for a limited time only. Visit www.entertainmentplus.me email entertainmentplusint@ gmail.com or call 39 616-858 for more information.

23 January 2015

happenings

BAHRAIN’S BIGGEST SHOPPING BONANZA RETURNS

Get your shopping trolleys ready as Bahrain’s most popular annual bazaar, the Autumn Fair 2015, gets underway. When? January 21-29 Event? Shopping Exhibition Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

One of the island’s largest annual consumer products exhibitions returns to the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre from January 21 to 29. Now in its 26th year, the Autumn Fair 2015 is bigger and better than ever, covering 15,400sqm. It offers more choice, new exhibitors, unique products and thousands of potential bargains as more than 750 exhibitors from 21 countries showcase their products. A huge variety of goods will be on offer during the nine-day period, ranging from specialty food, fashion and furniture, technology, toys, textiles and more. A children’s outdoor play area, live band and costume characters will also be part of the entertainment.

HOME SWEET HOME

The entire exhibition centre will transform into a colourful bazaar, with international traders bringing their country’s best exports. Represented at the various pavilions are countries such as China, Egypt, Kuwait, Turkey, Syria, UAE, Pakistan, Yemen and Thailand. There are potential savings on new-tomarket products and a host of regular visitor favourites, with local businesses offering special deals. Entry is 700fils and free of charge for children under the age of five. The exhibition will open daily to the public from noon to 10pm on January 21, 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 10pm on January 22, noon to 10pm on January 23, 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 10pm on January 24, 25, 26 and 27, and 10am to 10pm on January 28 and 29. Ladies only mornings will be held on January 25 and 26. www.theautumnfair.com or call 17 550-033

YOUNG TALENT ON SHOW

When? January 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Event? Movie Night Venue? Royal Golf Club Enjoy old family classics and all the latest releases in the club’s fantastic garden for free, every Thursday. E Call 17 750-777. When? Ongoing-January 3 Event? Cultural Festival Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Get to know the latest releases of Arabic books and enjoy cultural activities at the 21st Al Ayam Cultural Festival. E Visit www.alayamfestival.com. When? January 5 Event? Poetry Venue? Ibrahim Al Arrayed The event Footnote Eloquence and the Poem Breakthrough will feature Fatma Al Sheedi from 8pm to 9.30pm. E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

When? January 8-12 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Centre Explore the world of furnishing as Bahrain International Modern House 2015 opens its doors to the public this month. The event brings the latest in home décor to the Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Centre from January 8 to 12. The aim of the exhibition is to meet the needs of modern homes in an economical and convenient way, displaying the latest interior and exteriors designs and furnishing all under one roof, the organisers say. The exhibition includes everything you could possibly need for your home from contracting and construction, to antiques, accessories, cookware, swimming pools, sports equipment, landscaping and more. It is an ideal platform for exhibitors from private and government sectors to promote their company’s products and services. It also serves as a way for exhibitors to communicate directly with the public and network with each other. Visit www.ftbh.net or call 17 877-080. 24 January 2015

When? January 27-29 Event? Music Competition Venue? St Christopher’s School Isa Town and Saar, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel. The Young Musicians of the Gulf (YMOG) event is a celebration of young musical talent and has developed a reputation as one of the most prestigious and high profile competitions in the region. St Christopher’s School will host the event from January 27 to 29, with the semi-finals and first rounds both taking place at St Christopher’s School premises in both Isa Town and Saar and the finals will be held at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel. Participants from schools across the Gulf are invited to Bahrain for three days of musical competition. The standard of performing is very high, with the average age of participants being between 14 and 17 years. In the lead up to the final, the musicians have an opportunity to attend master classes led by distinguished adjudicators who are normally flown in from Europe and bring their own special talents and approaches to the competition. Euro Motors are Diamond sponsor of this year’s event. Email Faye.Hill@st-chris.net

When? January 9, 10 Event? Golf Venue? Royal Golf Club Sign your child up for the first Junior Golf Programme of the New Year at the Royal Golf Club. E Call 17 750-777. When? January 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24 and 30, 31 Event? Market Venue? Al Basta Market, Southern Governorate An impressive line-up of bands, musicians and artists will entertain crowds at the Entertainment Bazaar, Al Basta Market. E Visit www.bahrainnoorelain.com. When? January 12 Event? Talk Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research The event Ideas Inspired by The Times will feature Ghassan Salamah from 8pm to 9.30pm. E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre April 28th - 30th 2015

www.foodexpbh.com

happenings

BAHRAIN’S ECO-FRIENDLY HERITAGE ON DISPLAY When? January 16 Event? Cultural Event Venue? Indian School, Isa Town Church of Philadelphia will be celebrating its 30th anniversary by hosting a cultural event. E Call 36 950-909. When? January 16-February 14 Event? Kids Camp Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Children between 4 and 12 years of age to join the Ritz Kids expert Mindi for a variety of games and activities. E Call 17 58 6-612.

HE Sheikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa

Bahrainis are being invited to represent the Kingdom at one of the most prestigious expos in the world, Expo Milano 2015, which aims to highlight problems surrounding nutrition and the resources of our planet. When? May 1 Event? Expo Milano 2015 Venue? Milan, Italy Themed ‘Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life’, the expo runs from May 1 to October 31 and is expected to welcome over 20 million visitors with 147 official participants including Bahrain. It revolves around nutrition and sustainability and highlights the importance of protecting the planet’s natural resources. Taking part for the first time with a self-built pavilion entitled Archaeologies of Green; the Kingdom’s offering aims to raise awareness of Bahrain’s distinctive agricultural heritage as well as the importance of sustainable development practices. Commissioned by the Ministry of Culture (MOC), Archaeologies of Green is a poetic interpretation of the cultural agrarian heritage of the country, stemming from 26 January 2015

the ancient civilisation of Dilmun. MOC is looking for a team of volunteers who will act as hosts and hostesses for the guests of the pavilion. The invitation is open to all applicants over the age of 18 who are outgoing, hardworking and team players. There is also an opportunity for language and culture enthusiasts to work for two weeks as unpaid volunteers and gain vital experience. Interested candidates can send their CV and cover letter to bahrainpavilion2015@moc. gov.bh with a 500-word essay describing their interest in the pavilion and national participation at the expo. MOC will also hold musical concerts, traditional food samplings, conferences and performances to showcase

Bahraini culture to Italian and international audiences throughout the six months of the expo. The pavilion, designed by architect Anne Holtrop in collaboration with landscape architect Anouk Vogel, will be moved to Bahrain at the end of the event and, once rebuilt, will serve as a botanical garden. With 10 distinctive fruit gardens, containing trees that will be fruit-bearing at different moments throughout the duration of the exhibition, the pavilion also features archaeological artefacts that celebrate the millennia long tradition of agriculture on the island. Additionally, a short film produced by the filmmaker and photographer Armin Linke, reflecting the contemporary agricultural landscape of Bahrain, will also be featured. The various national pavilions shed light on the diverse cultural characters of countries around the world, allowing visitors to sample traditional foods and learn more about the cultural attributes and agricultural traditions of

different nations. Budding local filmmakers are also being encouraged to share a film of their making under the theme Feed Your Mind, Film Your Planet. Participants can create a short film (30-60 seconds), from documentary to video art, reflecting on food and nutrition using any device – smartphone, tablet or video camera. This will then be shown online through a dedicated platform for the duration of the expo. The deadline for uploading the film to the platform is March 2015 and participants with the three best short films will win a trip to Milan and the expo. Filmmakers can also participate in a category of film inspired by the UN theme for the Expo Milano 2015 — the Zero Hunger Challenge, United for a Sustainable World. Further information is available on www.shortfoodmovie. expo2015.org.

When? January 17 Event? Market Venue? Farmers Market, Northern Governorate Taste delectable treats and fresh produce at the The Garden Bazaar, Farmers Market. E Visit www.bahrainnoorelain.com. When? January 17 Event? Kids Book Club Venue? Words BookstoreCafé Children aged nine to12 years can engage in a literary book club meet to discuss C. S. Lewis’s classic fantasy series The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. E Call 17 690-790. When? January 19 Event? Talk Venue? Abdullah Al Zayed House The event Arabic Media: Contexts, Reality and Aspirations will feature Eyad Abu Shakra from 8pm to 9.30pm. E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org. When? January 20 Event? Talk Venue? Qal’at Al-Bahrain Site Museum A talk Uncovering Historical Evidence- The Investigative Work in Heritage Preservation will be presented by by Dr Alaa al-Habashi. E Call 17 567-174 or visit www.moc.gov.bh. When? January 23 and 24 Event? Movie Night Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain End your weekend with movies under the stars in the astonishing outdoor scenery of the Overlook. E Call 17 586-499.

Contact Suha Matar on s.matar@ moiraicommunications. com for more information www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

EXPRESS YOURSELF!

Candid artistic expression will be under the spotlight this month as the 41st Annual Fine Arts Exhibition gets under way. When? January 13 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum

As part of continued efforts to encourage the artistic community in the Kingdom, the 41st Annual Fine Arts Exhibition will take place on January 13, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Free of any particular title or artistic direction, artists’ contributions are encouraged to be as spontaneous and uninhibited as possible to allow an extensive artistic and cultural debate, one that is not confined by any formal restrictions or boundaries.

The art forms will include everything from calligraphy to surrealism and abstract and modernist representations to more traditional cultural expressions. Presenting an opportunity to highlight different schools of thought, artists’ perceptions and ideological backgrounds will be evoked freely. The aim is to initiate a dialogue about pluralism and artistic visions as well as experiences and expressions. Visit www.mocgov. com.bh

PRESERVING ANCIENT CULTURE

LITERATURE AND ART UNITE When? January 15 – April 15 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum The ‘Berber Women of Morocco’ exhibition will be held from January 15 to April 15, from 8am to 8pm as part of the 2015 “Year of Heritage” festivities. The event is being held under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty King Hamad and Supreme Council for Women (SCW) president. The exhibition is hosted by the Bahrain National Museum in collaboration with Pierre Bergé, Yves Saint Laurent Foundation, the Jardin Majorelle and the Musée du Quai Branly. 28 January 2015

The Berber (Amazigh) identity developed thousands of years ago on a vast territory stretching from Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Throughout history, women have been the guardians of traditions and language, ensuring the preservation of the tribes’ cultural heritage. The exhibition will present a wide range of beautiful objects and stunning archival photographs in tribute to the women who preserve the Berber culture’s singular identity. Visit www.moc.gov.bh

When? Ongoing – January 17 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Words Bookstore Café, Budaiya Word’s Bookstore’s first art exhibition, Picture a Story, is open to the public until January 17 from 10am to 8pm daily. The exhibition, curated by Stafford & Sharabi Art Consultants, provides a platform for a group of artists and illustrators to visually describe a piece of inspiring literature. “Literature, a form of art in itself, has long influenced artists and thinkers and so we decided to work with various artists that appreciate the value of this,” Stafford & Sharabi says. “From children’s books,

to science fiction and poetry, each of these artists interestingly selected a piece that continues in some way to resonate with them and hold some power over their memory or current state of mind. “The theme for ‘Picture a Story’ is so relevant to us and ideal for our first exhibition. We aim to continue to support, collaborate and work with creatives,” says Eileen AbuHamad, one of the owners of Words Bookstore.

When? January 24 Event? Workshop Venue? Qal’at Al-Bahrain Site Museum Get your children (seven to 12 years) involved with an outdoor workshop ‘Build Your House with Enkiro’, from 10am till noon. E Call 17 567-174 or visit www.moc.gov.bh. When? January 26 Event? Talk Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research The event ‘In The Beginning was the Word’: A Project for Creative Writing will feature Buthaina Al Issa from 8pm to 9.30pm. E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org. When? January 29 Event? Movie Night Venue? Qal’at Al-Bahrain Site Museum An Arabic classic movie night at Qal’at Al-Bahrain will screen Thirst, a 2002 film directed by Saad Charaib, set during the French colonialist period in Morocco. E Call 17 567-174 or visit www.moc.gov.bh. When? January 29-31 Event? Bazaar Venue? Arad Fort Corniche, Muharraq Retailers and souq traders will display their products in front of the timeless landmark of Arad Fort. E Visit www.bahrainnoorelain.com. When? January 30 Event? Competition Venue? Ritz-Carlton Beach 1001 Arabian Nights is the theme for the Ritz-Carlton Sports Club sandcastle competition held at the Marina beach. E Call 17 58 6-612. When? Ongoing-March 6, 2015 Event? Exhibition Venue? National Bahrain Museum Discover the evolution of Saudi contemporary art with ‘Modern and Contemporary Saudi Art, The Al-Mansouria Collection’. E Visit www.moc.gov.bh. When? Ongoing-April 24, 2015 Event? Art Project Venue? Qal’at Al-Bahrain Site Museum Qal’at Al Bahrain through the Ages is an interactive art installation project depicting the site’s historical significance. E Visit www.moc.gov.bh.

Visit www.facebook. com/WordsBookstoreCafe www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

DEBUT SOLO EXHIBITION

Lebanese-German artist Amal Deyhle will exhibit her work for the first time in Bahrain under the theme ‘Wander Lust’ this month. When? January 11 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Hend Gallery

Amal’s solo art exhibition will be held under the patronage of HE Sabine Taufman, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany. The exhibition opens on January 11 and continues for two weeks at Hend Gallery, 63 Avenue 1, Muharraq. Having lived throughout Africa, Europe and the Middle East, Amal’s travels have influenced her style of art tremendously. There are 28 paintings of different sizes on display, which are all up for sale at the exhibition. “I studied painting in Turkey from 2009

A PALESTINIAN DRAMA

till 2011. For around five years I was able to further develop my knowledge and practice independently and I learned to appreciate the great technique of impasto, where paint is laid very thickly on the canvas. “I work from life; attempting to capture the moods and impressions of things in my surroundings, daily life and travels in an abstract way. I make visual impressions of my memories. I find a freedom in my work, which gives balance to my mind, peace and focus.” Call 35 345-044

SHORT FILM COMPETITION When? January 23 Event? Film Festival Venue? Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam, Segaiya

When? January 18 Event? Film Screening Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Palestinian drama, Omar, directed by Hany Abu-Assad, will be screened at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art. The film will start at 7pm and tickets are priced at BD10 to be used as a voucher in the restaurant. The film was screened at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival and won the Jury Prize and was also selected as the Palestinian entry for the Best Foreign 30 January 2015

Language Film at the 86th Academy Awards. Following a similar theme, writer Pamela Olson will present her book – Fast Time in Palestine – at la Fontaine on April 9 as part of the Spring of Culture calendar. The books will be on sale at La Fontaine from the beginning on January and also on the day of the film screening. Call 17 230-123

Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam (BKS) is inviting the public to take part in international short film festival, Film Café, which will start on January 23. The duration of the film should be no longer than three minutes and subject to law of the land. The last day for entry is January 10. After a primary screening, the selected films will be presented to film dignitaries from international cinema, who will judge and determine the prizes for Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Cinematographer and Best Editor. Awards will be presented on January 23 and the maker of the best film will be awarded with a certificate and a trophy. The audience will take part in a poll to determine their top pick. Interested candidates can download entry forms from the samajam website www.bksbahrain.com, contact BKS directly or email bksfilmfest15@gmail.com. Call 39 160-637 or 39 186-439. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

WALK THE WALK, WITH A DOG

EARLY BIRD TICKETS FOR F1 Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) has announced early bird discounted tickets for the 2015 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. When? Ongoing – January 14 Event? Discounted Tickets Venue? BIC, City Centre Bahrain

Motorsport fans looking ahead to this year’s Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix need not wait any longer to get their hands on Formula One tickets as the BIC is offering reduced prices for the night racing spectacle. The Formula One extravaganza is scheduled to take place between April 17 and 19 at “The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East” in Sakhir. The discount of up to 20 per cent is valid on BIC’s Main Grandstand and Turn One Grandstand and a discount of up to 10 per

32 January 2015

Mark your diaries for a fun day out at the annual BSPCA Dog Walk. The fun-filled event is a chance for more than 60 rescue dogs at the Animal Welfare Centre (AWC) to get some exercise and meet other people and pet dogs. Registration for the walk costs BD10 and you can either bring your own dog or borrow one of the shelter’s dogs by pre-booking. The route is 4km for adults and there is also a shorter 2km course for children. The person who collects the most sponsorship money wins a prize, with Purina providing treats and a donation towards the raffle. Funds raised will be used to continue to support the AWC. Gates open at 9am, the registration desk opens at 9.30am and the walk starts at 10.30am. Sponsorship forms can be downloaded from the BSPCA’s official Facebook page or collected from the shelter, thrift shop as well as the British Club and the Dilmun Club. Call 17 591-231.

cent on Batelco Grandstand, University Grandstands and Victory Grandstands. Main Grandstand tickets now cost BD120 instead of BD150 and Turn One Grandstand ticketscost BD80 instead of BD100. Batelco Grandstand tickets cost BD108 instead of BD120, with University Grandstand and Victory Grandstand tickets reduced to BD54 each from BD60 after discounts. Tickets are available for purchase until January 14. The Gulf Air Bahrain

The Bahrain Award for Entrepreneurship, the largest entrepreneurship award in the Kingdom, has launched as part of the Bahrain Noor El Ain Festival’s (BNEA) activities designed to support Bahraini businesses and boost its economy. This will take place late February 2015, and is designed to celebrate the achievements of Bahrain’s entrepreneurs and their socioeconomic role in spurring a private sector driven economy.

When? January 30 Event? Dog Walk Venue? Animal Welfare Centre, Askar

Grand Prix also offers an off the track experience that includes a wide variety of family entertainment and fun activities for all, plus a series of live musical performances by some of the world’s biggest stars. Currently, tickets can be bought online at BIC’s official website, bahraingp. com, on its official Facebook page, or by calling the BIC Hotline. They are also being sold at the BIC sales outlet at City Centre Bahrain. Call 17 450-000.

Companies based in the Kingdom, where the majority of their shareholders are Bahraini can apply in one of five categories including: Micro-Enterprise of the Year (micro enterprises and productive families), Startup of the Year (companies established for less than 36 months), Entrepreneur of the Year (SMEs), Entrepreneur of the Year (Large Companies), and Sustainable Business Award. There will also be a Lifetime Achievement Award and the People’s Choice Award, which will open for

public votes in February 2015. Nominations can be made on behalf of a third-party, or through self-nominations provided the eligibility criteria are met. Applications must be submitted before noon on January 25th 2015, however applicants are encouraged to apply early. For further information visit www.BahrainAE. com, follow the Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook account on BahrainAE, or contact 17 000-710 between 7.30am and 11pm. www.bahrainthismonth.com

A New Year, A New Body!

Finally Revealed for 2015… The Brand New 23-Minute Weight-Loss System! This year, sticking to your New Year’s resolution has never been easier! Whether you need to lose 3 kg or 30 kg, we’ll develop a customised weight loss programme just for you. When you come in for your FREE assessment we’ll measure your height and weight, and using our new proprietary system we’ll tell you exactly how many inches of fat you need to lose to reach normal weight. In fact, we’ll guarantee that you’ll lose these inches, or we’ll give you your money back. You’ll achieve the guaranteed results by training on our unique 23-minute, easy-to-use hydraulic circuit.

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But we won’t stop there. We’ll also give you a weight loss guide, delicious recipes, and keep you motivated and excited. Losing weight and getting in shape has never been this easy and fun! Make 2015 the year you finally get the body you’ve always wanted! Call us now on 17582 982 to book your FREE trial and assessment. We look forward to seeing you! Suhail G. Algosaibi Founder, DreamBody Centre

www.DreamBodyCentre.com

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happenings

LAUGHTER GALORE

One of the most popular stand-up comedy shows on the island, Chuckle Club, is starting 2015 on a high note by launching a GCC wide tour. When? January 14-16 Event? Stand-up Comedy Venue? The British Club, Bahrain Rugby Football Club, InterContinental Regency Bahrain

34 January 2015

Punchline Media’s Chuckle Club is spreading laughter throughout the region by kicking off its GCC wide tour this month. The show is getting bigger and better with three international comedians performing in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Saudi Arabia before closing the tour in Bahrain. This month’s line-up will see American comic Sean Donnelly, Australian Brendon Burns and Northern Irish Martin Mor perform at The Rugby Football Club on January 14, at The British Club on January 15 and at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain on January 16. Sean Donnelly is a man of many talents and can be found headlining clubs all over New York, including Caroline’s, Gotham, Stand Up NY and The Stand. He has appeared on MTV’s World of Jenks and The Late Show with David Letterman and has also received several accolades in comedy festivals. He was Montreal Just For Laughs ‘New Face’ in 2013 and was featured on TruTV series World’s Dumbest and on the first season of Adam Devine’s House Party on Comedy Central. He can currently be seen on Amazon’s Alpha House and on the forthcoming season of Comedy Central’s Broad City.

Brendon Burns is not your everyday comic. Older, wiser, calmer (and after being fitted with a hearing aid, infinitely quieter) Brendon’s enticing energy and humour seems to let him get away with murder. His shows aren’t just extended sets; Brendon specialises in creating experiences. With nine albums, 18 one-man shows and three stand-up live specials under his belt he is also a critically acclaimed author and playwright. Martin Mor has more than 25 years of experience as a professional performer. After a successful career in the circus, he turned his attention to the unsuspecting comedy circuit and has established himself as one of the UK’s most popular and in-demand comedians. Martin has performed at all types of events ranging from a show for the inmates of an Italian prison to performing before members of the British Royal Family. With numerous appearances on radio and television, Martin has worked at all levels of the industry and performed extensively in Britain, Ireland, USA, Italy, Holland, Germany, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Mainland China. Tickets are priced at BD15 and can be purchased at The Rugby Football Club reception, The British Club reception and online at amiando.com/chuckleclubjan2015. Call 36 663-509

www.bahrainthismonth.com

World Luxury Hotel Awards Luxury Private Pool Villa 2014 Winner Bahrain

Royal Pool Villa - Charm and Elegance

Experience the awe inspiring beauty of the stark desert panorama, in a land once described by the ancient Dilmun civilization as the Garden of Eden. Wrap yourself in sheer luxury as you discover a perfect blend of relaxation and intimacy. Al Areen Palace & Spa, offers the travel connoisseur complete privacy in peaceful haven that is rich in both spirituality and culture. Al Areen Palace & Spa features 78 spacious and luxuriously appointed pool villas, with Arabian architecture and a private courtyard. We provide guests with an exceptional culinary journey, featuring Saffron, inspired by modern Bahraini cuisine, Keizo, a creative flair of Far Eastern flavours and Rimal, a selection of international gastronomic delights. Make memories last a life time. Al Areen Palace & Spa offers the most exceptional setting for your special events.

Keizo Restaurant - Far Eastern Cuisine

The Resort boasts one of the largest and most unique Spa in the Middle East. Soothe your senses at Al Areen Spa, a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation of mind, body and soul. An award winning spa that provides an exotic blend of romance, serenity and sensuality.

Al Areen Palace & Spa Tel: +973 17845000 Email: alareen@alareenpalace.com www.alareenpalace.com

Hydrothermal Pool - Al Areen Spa

bystander

Ammar

Atif

Hassan

Riyadh

Omar Bukhowa Wedding Celebrations Omar Bukhowa, son of Dr Adel Bukhowa, Chairman of Bukhowa Investments Holding, celebrated his wedding with family and friends at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. Dr Adel Bukhowa, Omar & guests

Faris, Omar, Dr Adel Bukhowa & guests

Khalid, Faris, Omar, Ali & Dr Adel Bukhowa

Dr Adel Bukhowa, Riyadh & guests

Shaikh Sabah Al Khalifa, Dr Adel Bukhowa, Jassim & Isa

Omar & friends

Omar & guests

Omar, Dr Adel Bukhowa & family

36 January 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

One of these could have your name on it. The eGovernment Excellence Award 2015 Open to everyone.

Under the patronage of H. H. Shaikh Mohammed Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Information and Communication Technology The eGovernment Excellence Award 2015 acknowledges outstanding accomplishment and modernization with the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. The award is open to all citizens, private organizations, government entities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It recognizes projects, initiatives and concepts that assist and develop the achievement of Bahrain’s technological advancement readiness and effectiveness.

Award Categories Government

Multi Sector

Citizen

• • • •

• Best eConcept • eCitizen

Best eContent Best eService Best eProject eParticipation

Best App for Smart Devices eEconomy eEntrepreneur eNGO

Participate today! Submit entries at www.egovaward.bh or call 8000 8001 for more information.

bystander

Nick, Mutathir, Reem, Thajba & Amna

Bumblefoot at RIA Ron ‘Bumblefoot’ Thal of Guns N’ Roses fame made a stop at the Regional Institute of Active Learning (RIA) on his inaugural visit to Bahrain. Deepa, Bumblefoot & Charlie

Amna, Bumblefoot & Reem

Bumblefoot plays to the children

Catherine, Julie & Annemarie

Sinead & Harrington

Zoha, Maham & Wardah

Ahmed & Amani

Nancy, Dr Ghada & May

Peter & Kathryn

RCSI-MUB 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Medical University of Bahrain (RCSI-MUB) organised a gala dinner to mark the 10th anniversary of the university. The event was held at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. Guests at the event

Jayant, Mala Kumar & HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador to Bahrain

38 January 2015

Claire & Mohammed

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bystander

Philip & Stephen

Aqua Cool 30th Anniversary Celebrations Aqua Cool, part of Mohammed Jalal & Sons group, recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. The event was held at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Cutting the ceremonial cake

Zainab & Maryam

Mani, Melvin & John

Jun, Marlon & Mex

Saima

Krystal

Rose

supporting ideas achieving success

Bahrain Development Bank offers a wide range of distinctive financial and advisory services specifically designed to meet SME’s special needs. Whether your plan is to launch a new entrepreneurial venture, expand or diversify business in the Kingdom, BDB provides you with advice and support in developing the financial resources for your project since BDB’s core mission is to develop SME’s. Over the years, BDB has expanded in delivering an innovative mix of financial products tailored to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and extended to reach out a broader spectrum of economical sectors. For more details visit: www.bdb-bh.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2015 39

bystander

Savio & Sam

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A Photographic Expedition Through Volcanoes & Icelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Press Meet & Photo Exhibition Award-winning photographer, Premjith Narayanan and his two sons, Jathin & Nithin, presented a collection of photos from their travel in Iceland. The event was sponsored by Canon and Intercol. Premjith with the Intercol Canon team

Premjith & Subi

Premjith, Hashim, Dinesh & Sethu

40 January 2015

Bambi, Sunita & Hilary

Ashok

Dinesh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Menchie’s Opening at Yum Yum Tree Bahrain’s premier international style food court, Yum Yum Tree, launched Menchie’s, a frozen yoghurt concept from California. Faris Bukhowa & Aatif inaugurate the store

Kids enjoying balloons and face painting

Fun with clown

The Menchie’s team

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Rany & Jassem

Dalal

Charlie & Christian

January 2015 41

bystander

Christmas Tree Lighting at Crowne Plaza Bahrain Crowne Plaza Bahrain organised its annual tree lighting ceremony. The tree was designed and crafted by the Crowne Plaza Bahrain team. Guests were treated to Christmas goodies and merry beverages. Susantha & Ashraf

Emily, Inna, Tamara & Natasha

Nanette, Giuliana, Luke, Gary & Liam

Ameer & Gilles

Mohammed & Ebrahim

Princess, John, Gabe & Amber

MaryAnn & Jean

Christmas Tree Lighting at Golden Tulip Bahrain Golden Tulip Bahrain held its annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony in the hotel lobby. The children enjoyed a visit from Santa, raffle draw and face painting. Christian, Chatty & Angela

Tanvi & Mustafa

Nida & Nelia

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Christmas Tree Lighting

Ruby, Tareq & Rose

Nicolene, Florence & Johanna

Giovanni

Jen, Monica, Amani

Joanna, Jonwayne & Richard

Paul

Puja, Sourav & Ameya

Dervla, Nanette, Noman, Faye & Rose

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa celebrated its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lobby. Staff and guests participated in singing Christmas carols and children were treated to a visit from Santa. Gina, Vito & Ozden

42 January 2015

Tarik, Lamees & Karim

Salman, Maryam & Younis

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The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Christmas Tree Lighting The Gulf Hotel Bahrain ushered in the festive season with its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Tayyaba & Omer

Kainat & Sally-Anne

Garfield, Jill & Megan

Puja, Sheetal & Yash

Marie, Leena, Armie & Mary-Jane

Hassan, Joan & Abdulla

Noor & Shaima

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Christmas Tree Lighting Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa kicked off its festive activities with the Christmas tree lighting in the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lobby. Claire, Chef Jason & Annisa

Leah, Michele & Kian

Anna, Vittel, Anton, Girish, Raj & Shiju

Christmas Tree Lighting at The Domain Bahrain

Wolfgang & Marina

Richard, Cynthia, Melia, Oliver, Sky & Rose

Francie, Adel, Claude & Anne

Chrissy, Tamer & Fifi

Woody & Gabriel

The Domain Bahrain welcomed the festive season with the lighting of the Christmas tree.

Lisa & Sarah

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Kim & Georgina

Abby, Matt & Amy

January 2015 43

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Manama Toastmasters Club Golden Jubilee Manama Toastmasters Club celebrated its golden jubilee with a high profile panel with celebrated personalities from the USA, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, was also part of the panel. The event took place at Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

Madhavi

Vijay Baloor

Tom, Tanaji, Guaz, Claire & Laxman

AS, Amparo, Philip, Imtiaz & Naveen

Dr Khalid Amin & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Madhavi, Ahmed, Abdulla, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Koka

44 January 2015

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bystander

Maria, Antonia, Hussain, Audrey & Debbie

Christophe & Christina

Sarah, Hussain, Omran, Debbie, Rowena & Debbie

Christina & Murray

Jaffer & Debbie Al Sairafi Christmas Party Jaffer and Debbie Al Sairafi got into the Christmas spirit with a party for family and friends at their residence in Umm al Hassam. Jaffer & Debbie

Samira, Michael & Heather

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sameera, Meshari & Fawaz

Hussain, Essam & Salman

Jean & Mariam

January 2015 45

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Bloggers’ Brunch at Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre Bahrain based food blogger, Anita Menon, was invited to a brunch at Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre. Vinoth & Alvin

Jawad Restaurant Division Annual Conference Jawad Restaurant Division organised its annual conference and awards ceremony at Juffair Grand Hotel. The event kicked off with Mr Faisal Jawad thanking the employees for their hard work. Awards were given out by Mr Faisal Jawad, Mr Ramakrishnan, Mr Abbas Hussain and other top management.

Faisal Jawad addresses the attendees

Mr Chandrasekharan Farewell Dinner at Jawad Dome

Oliver, Amish, Isaac, Ricardo, Mohammed & Sawan

Expo Milan 2015 The Ministry of Culture held a press conference on occasion of its participation at the Expo Milan 2015. The conference took place at the Bahrain National Museum’s main foyer.

Noura, Dr Heba, Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa & HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador to Bahrain

‘Crescents’ Art Show Under the patronage of Dr Abdul Latif Kanoo, De Beers Jewellery organised ‘Crescents’, a collection of contemporary calligraphic and abstract art. The exhibition was held at the Jewellery Court in Moda Mall.

Nivedita, Madhav, HE Muhammed Saeed Khan, Dilshad & Rehana

The Jawad Business Group organised a farewell party for Mr Chandrasekharan who left the company after 26 years of dedicated service. The party was held at The Jawad Dome in Barbar and was followed by lunch at Chili’s. Kaneka & Eve

Seher & Farah

Nabil & Dr Abdul Latif Kanoo

Hackett London ‘Walk of Fame’ Mr Chandrsekharan & Faisal

Hackett London organised ‘Walk of Fame’ to launch its Autumn/Winter 2014 collection at City Centre Bahrain Serenading the guests

Mr Chandrasekharan receives his award from Faisal

46 January 2015

Makki & Khalid

Emanuel, Aziz, Aitor, Patrick, Ali & Najim

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bystander

Sridhav

Ron addresses the guests

HE Dr Abdul Hussain Mirza presents a talk

Sixth Annual HRM Summit Under the patronage of HE Dr Abdul Hussain Mirza, the Honourable Minister of Electricity and Water Affairs, the sixth annual HRM Summit 2014 was held at Crowne Plaza Bahrain. Exemplary employers and individuals were also honoured with the 2014 Bahrain HR Awards, the Kingdom’s first and most credible HR awards.

Sridhav, Ron, Anoop & Abdul Hussain

Fatema & Masooma

Ahmed & Jassim

Veronica & David

Biswa, Maham & David

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador to Bahrain & Mala Kumar

Ebtisam & Fatima

Dr Abdul Majeed & Dr Khalid

Vikram performs

Sneh Milan – A Musical Evening The Art of Living foundation in Bahrain hosted a musical and spiritual event ‘Sneh Milan-A Musical Evening’ at the Cultural Hall. Renowned spiritual singer, writer, philosopher and social activist, Vikram Hazra performed at the event. Dr Nada, Shantharam, Dr Mustafa & Juzer

Mariya, Swetha, Latha, Jaya, Shilpa & Geetha

48 January 2015

Dr Shawqi, Dr Nada & Vikram

Vani & Dr Krishnan

Baghavan, Shantharam, Asha, Ronnie, Vikram, Matthew & Juzer

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

TRASH INTO TREASURE CHARLIE HOLDING

ALSO THIS MONTH: 51 SAGER SHAHEEN 56 SHAREEF KHAROUBA

It has been said that one person’s trash is another man’s treasure and, if you’re the type of person who hates to throw things away, upcycling may be the hobby you’ve been waiting for.

Vrushali J

co-conscious upcyclist Vrushali J is encouraging the Kingdom to help bridge the gap between art and waste with her creative crafts. Upcycling is the process of converting waste materials into new products of better quality or for environmental value. Some of Vrushali’s recent creations have a festive theme and include bells from plastic bottles, a Christmas tree, baskets, woven stars and a Christmas tree lamp all made from discarded newspapers. Having previously held sessions on upcycling for students at a number of educational institutes across the island, Vrushali now hopes to inspire the Kingdom’s stay-at-home mums to take up the hobby. “My intention is to encourage more people to try it and to use products that are uncycled. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The sad part is that parents think it’s a kid’s art, but it’s not – you use blades and fire and it requires a lot of patience,” she says. “My goal is to encourage mothers who aren’t working to give it a try and pass on the knowledge to their children.” If all goes well, she plans to open an upcycle hobby station where different scientific techniques will be shared and people can try their hand at creating upcycled art.   “Upcycling is like rebirth for old and unwanted waste because when we start on a project, we do not know how it would look at the end,” Vrushali explains.   “There are many reasons people should upcycle; one being the satisfaction of giving back to Mother Nature. It’s fun to see transformations and it also sets an example to our kids.”

Besides being artistically rewarding, upcycled crafts also have a positive impact on the environment. In 2011, the worldwide plastic production was 280 million tons and this number has been steadily growing each year. Its haphazard disposal causes severe environmental damage such as the creation of the Great Pacific garbage patch, a floating mass of pelagic plastics, chemical sludge and other debris that has been trapped by the currents of the North Pacific Gyre. In order to solve this problem, the employment of modern technologies and processes to reuse the waste plastic as a cheap substrate is under research. The goal is to bring this material from the waste stream back into the mainstream by developing processes such as upcycling that create an economic demand for it. January 2015 49

interview

THAT’S A WRAP Gift-giving has been on everybody’s mind recently and despite the festive rush ending, there are plenty more occasions coming up. Entrepreneurial Saudi Nehal Alomari is offering a useful service tied neatly in a bow.

APERMOON, The Giftwrap Company (known as YELLOWMOON in Bahrain) is must-visit location for those who are all fingers and thumbs when it comes to gift wrapping. Its founder-creative director Nehal and her team are on hand to take the stress out of giving beautifully presented gifts for any occasion. The company’s success of almost 25 years in Saudi Arabia and over the past seven years in Bahrain has led to the opening of a second store on the island. YELLOWMOON opened in Riffa at The Walk recently, providing another location to help share the load. The wife and mother-of-three has been passionate about design from an early age but says she never expected her hobby to become a business. “The intention was not to have a business,” says Nehal. “The business plan at the time was my ideas jotted down in two paragraphs. I was living in Riyadh and noticed a trend of people giving presents in the paper bag or shopping bag that they were bought it in. “In my opinion, it really doesn’t look good or feel good and it takes away a lot from any present no matter how good it is. That’s when I decided to do something about it.” This led to the creation of PAPERMOON in 1990, which opened up its first shop in Riyadh. With mainly franchised concepts being introduced to the area at the time and unique ideas far and few between, Nehal took a risk and it proved to be worth the gamble. 50 January 2015

Nehal Alomari

“In our case it was difficult for people to accept paper as a commodity and the art of presentation in itself to be a product for people to pay money for,” explains Nehal. “The first compliment I got was from a very dear friend when she said that PAPERMOON was like having a piece of Europe in Riyadh. Very soon we became well known for unique and high-end gift wrapping.” When PAPERMOON first began, it offered a wrapping service and a few unique gifts from what Nehal calls ‘the forgotten cultures’ (Africa, India and the Far East). The company now offers readymade products from different suppliers and also designs its own. “We are beginning to make more and more of our own designs that match our society better,” Nehal says.

Demand for its services in Bahrain has grown so much that the company has launched a new corporate package. “The new service for this year is our B2B service,” explains Nehal. “We opened up a B2B division through which we are now catering to nonretail customers and clients. Some of them want custom-made designs and we are branching into that.” The future looks bright and there are plans in the pipeline to franchise and grow the B2B division. “We have a lot of people who want to take the concept and fly with it,” says Nehal. “I think we have a jewel in our hands. There are many ways we can grow; we can grow into wholesale or into franchise. The only question is where to go first.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

CATCH OF THE DAY CHARLIE HOLDING Entrepreneur Sager Shaheen’s Asmak fish farm is scaling new heights in its mission to ensure food security for the Kingdom.

ue to a growing population and vast overfishing, finding the catch of the day has become increasingly difficult. Thankfully, however, things are going swimmingly well for Bahrain’s Asmak company following the successful harvest of its first batch of farmed fish. With the first phase out of the way, the company is now looking to the future and has ambitious plans for 2015. Chairman Sager Shaheen has a vision to expand operations and triple the starting production of 180 tons achieved in the first year. In a bid to provide Bahrain with food security, Asmak B.S.C was founded in 2010 with the aim of introducing the first open-sea floating cage aquaculture project. Aquaculture is the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish and involves cultivating freshwater and saltwater populations under controlled conditions. The company’s growing business activities aim to cover all aspects of the aquaculture industry, including fish farming, processing, packaging and export and import activities. Established off the coast at Askar, the company’s fish farm is expected to reach a harvesting capacity of 1,500 tons by the fifth year of operations, constituting around 12 per cent of the total fish supply and approximately 35 per cent of current total fish imports in Bahrain. Sager came up with the idea for the fish farm after he discovered the concept of fish farming while travelling. When he came back to Bahrain he did a preliminary study and started promoting the idea and, soon after, he founded the company with 34 shareholders. Extensive research was conducted prior to opening, related to, for example, finding a suitable site location with necessary characteristics such as depth, salinity and temperature. After three years of fine-tuning, the company www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sager Shaheen

began production of its first batch of European seabream, which made its way to the Bahrain market in December. “I’ve done many projects in my life – industrial, business, trading and contracting — but this is the most challenging of all because some of the factors are out of my control,” says Sager. “In 2014 production was kept to a minimum as we didn’t know what was going to happen with the fish. In September we had difficult time because of the weather; the water was uncharacteristically warm at 37 degrees and we lost about 20 per cent of our stock. “This wasn’t a normal year of production. It was essentially a period of experimentation, trying different types of fish feed and figuring out what worked best.” This year sees a number of new developments for the company, including the completion of a quarantine zone, which will allow it to import fish from abroad. “The plan is to get fingerlings from a local hatchery so we can start farming sobaity and hopefully hammour and safi,” explains Sager. “The priority is to take them from government and grow them in our farms until they reach commercial size so we can sell them in the local market. If the hatchery cannot fulfill our requirements then we will import fingerlings. “It has been designed and we are ready to get started, we have 5,000sqm of space,” says Sager. “It is a closed system, which is designed

to prevent diseases and infections and to provide better quality control. “We circulate the water and use ultraviolet filters to keep things clean. By March, the system should be up and running, which means we can buy hammour and other species from abroad.” The system is made of eight independent tanks in which fingerlings are placed. Samples are taken and sent to the lab, to ensure all is well. This year, the company hopes to reach production levels of 600 tons and 1,200 tons the following year. “I love everything about the sea. Bahrain being an island nation, I grew up swimming in the sea, catching fish and sailing. The main objective of this project is not just about my passion for the sea; it’s about delivering a gift to Bahrain — food security,” says Sager. “Bahrain relies on imports for almost everything we eat. In fact, 50 per cent of fish in Bahrain is imported. We want people to contribute to a number of projects that provide food security for the future. Local produce is the way to go.” The company also plans to start work on a packaging station this year, built to European regulation, which means Asmak can sell internationally in the future. However, overseas sales will only take place once the company meets market demand in Bahrain and there is excess stock. January 2015 51

interview

MODERN LIVING AT ITS BEST APPLE SHARMA IDdesign is celebrating its 10th anniversary in the Kingdom. BTM talks to the company’s managing director, Naeem Karmustaji, to find out about the company and its plans for 2015.

he largest retailer in Denmark, IDdesign, offers high quality products with a Scandinavian touch that have been adapted to fit the needs of international markets. Today, IDdesign has 19 furniture stores across the Middle East as well as Southern and Eastern Europe. IDdesign Bahrain began operations in December 2004 in a modest 850sqm store on Budaiya Highway. Now in its 10th year, the store has grown from strength to strength. The store showcases the largest collection of contemporary and modern lifestyle furnishings on the island, with an anchor showroom in Sitra Mall and its newest showroom at the Amwaj Lagoon. The company’s philosophy is all about choice. “IDdesign’s ideology is reflected in its tagline ‘More Living. More Styles. More Trends’,” says Naeem. “We believe in individual choice and strive to provide the necessary elements for our customers to ensure their homes reflect 52 January 2015

Naeem Karmustaji

their lifestyle and individuality without compromising on the essentials of comfort, quality and affordability.” The collections are continuously updated to reflect the latest and leading home décor trends. The store carries a broad ensemble of furniture, accessories, lighting, carpets, galleries, kitchenware and various other elements that are needed to fully furnish your home all under one roof. For customers who have difficulty defining their own furnishing style, IDdesign takes the hassle away by providing four unique style groups, Global, Deluxe, Upnordic and Urban. “Our 2015 collection will undoubtedly provide inspiration whether you are looking to furnish a new home, redecorate a room or just refresh the look of your home,” Naeem explains. The 2015 catalogue will be available in the showrooms this month with the new collection being showcased soon.

IDdesign’s knowledgeable staff are on hand to improve the shopping experience by helping you find what you’re looking for. The store has an in-house design team to assist clients looking to furnish or refresh their homes and a projects team that covers full home decoration or multiple apartment units. It also provides delivery and installation services on all the furniture products that the store offers. IDdesign’s collection and showrooms, inspiring displays, stylish designs, quality furniture and value for money, is what sets it apart from other furnishing stores in the market, the company says. “We are looking at a number of projects, from expanding our existing range and showrooms, to better ways of reaching and interacting with our target audience through social events and activities in Bahrain. This includes the launch of a new website that allows customers to shop online,” Naeem adds. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ingrid & Anne

Augusta, Laurent, Doris & Patrice

Christmas party Manfred and Iris Erber organised a Christmas party for family and friends at their residence in Saar. Alexandra, Manfred & Christophe

Iris, Manfred & Laura

Joyce, Mohammed, Debbie & Ronnie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Pannos, Herve, Manfred, Josef & Michael

Laura, George & Iris

Marko

January 2015 53

interview

AIMING HIGH APPLE SHARMA The Bahrain Schools Expo 2015, a one-of-akind educational exhibition, is being held in the Kingdom for the first time this month. The expo is the brainchild of Habib Ebrahim, founder and chief executive officer of Events House.

ith a niche market like Bahrain, it’s no small task to bring new and innovative events that cater to the evolving needs of both the local and expatriate community. With two and a half years of experience under its belt, Events House has grown from strength-to-strength and has carved out a firm reputation in the events management industry. “We started the company with a passion for events management and organising conferences and exhibitions,” says 29-year-old Habib. “My experience comes from my youth when I was organising activities, events and conferences with the General Organisation for Youth and Sports (GOYS) as a volunteer. I studied accounting, but my passion lay in something different and that’s why I moved into events management and marketing.” Events House organises all types of events from large expos to corporate and leadership events. “We’ve organised three young leadership camps before, in Spain, Austria and Germany, to help young people improve their skills, boost their self-confidence and tune their leadership skills. We’ve also done small corporate events for companies, but the Bahrain Schools Expo 2015 has been our biggest project so far,” explains Habib. 54 January 2015

Habib Ebrahim

The event takes place from January 8 to 10, and aims to help parents find the best nurseries and schools in Bahrain for their children. “The idea came when I was trying to find schools for my two children and I realised how much hassle it was,” says Habib. “So, we decided to organise an expo and invited all the nurseries and kindergartens in Bahrain to take part. It’s the first time Bahrain has had a dedicated event for schools and nurseries.” Habib says the response from schools has been so impressive that they are already booked for 2016. “Approximately 15 institutions are taking part, along with other exhibitors who

are related to education, including language institutions, clubs and gyms, as well as education consultants, banks and financial institutes that provide education and saving schemes for children. We have exhibitors from many different areas, but all are related to education and children aged up to 18.” With a team of experienced staff, Events House continues to grow and is aiming to organise other large events soon. There are plans in the pipeline to expand and replicate the expo in Dubai and other parts of the GCC and to organise a tourism and holiday exhibition in the near future. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Tassos & Pierre

Laila & Fahad

Ammar & Bader

Raluca & Shaima

Najeeb & Naseema

May & Kirk

Official Launch of ‘Al Areen – Your Destination Magazine’ & Dine Out at Al Areen The official launch of ‘Al Areen – Your Destination Magazine’ took place at Al Areen Palace & Spa where guests also enjoyed the monthly Dine Out event. Siraj, Pierre, Laila, Varsha, Susie & Cheryl

Rhona & Greten

Siraj & Shafeeka

www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2015 55

interview

SHAREEF’S NEW ROLE The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa recently welcomed a new director of sales and marketing. Bahrain This Month speaks to him about his career in the hospitality industry and his plans for this landmark property.

n the bustling and fast-paced hospitality industry, reputation means everything. This is something Shareef Kharouba knows all about after checking in to his new role in the Kingdom. He is drawing on his 13 years of sales and marketing experience in five-star international hotel groups to spearhead the sales and marketing division at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. “I’ve worked all across the GCC and visited Bahrain on many occasions, so when the opportunity with Diplomat Radisson Blu arose, I was keen to take up the challenge and explore a new country,” he says. “I have only been here for a short while but I already feel quite at home in Bahrain.” Shareef’s first order of business was getting to know his new team’s individual strengths and to find out more about the hotel. “Diplomat Radisson Blu enjoys a strong reputation in the market, but there are always areas where we can improve on or use a different approach with,” says Shareef. “The property is a local landmark and part of the history of Bahrain. I am here to build on that reputation with our service and results-driven team.” 56 January 2015

Shareef Kharouba

Shareef believes that the hotel’s biggest strength is the attachment that people in the Kingdom have to the landmark building. He says: “When people regard you as a part of their history and culture, they develop a special attachment to you. This unique bond is our greatest asset and drives our position in the market place. Our superb new meeting rooms and events facility will further ensure a very strong positioning, especially in the MICE market, which is considered a key performing segment in Bahrain.” The most challenging and gratifying moments of Shareef’s career have been to carry out hotel launches and repositioning in some of the region’s most challenging locations. These

experiences, he says, were demanding but immensely rewarding. When it comes to the hospitality sector, Shareef believes that Bahrain is definitely a key player in the region. “Together with the government’s efforts and the private sector, Bahrain’s position as a business and financial hub will continue to grow, which will encourage development of other sectors such as tourism and leisure,” he explains. “The hospitality industry remains one of the economy’s key drivers and our role is to support government initiatives, particularly in tourism, and to further promote the country as an investment destination of choice and gateway to the GCC market.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

BSB National Day Celebrations The British School of Bahrain (BSB) held a campus-wide celebration for the national day on December 11. The action-packed day began with brass fanfare and the Bahrain National Anthem and featured funfilled activities with wonderful assemblies showcasing the Arabic language and Bahraini culture. Fatima, Dr Abdulghani Al Shuwaikh, Ahlam, Falconer, Rashed Janahi, Dr Charles Wall & Salim El Abed

Maysa, Nadeen, Rashed Janahi, Dr Abdulghani Al Shuwaikh, Hayfa & Salim El Abed

BSB ACADEMIES

EXPLORE | LEARN | GROW

The students getting henna

ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS

DANCE, DRAMA, MUSIC, CONCERTS, STAGE PLAY, VARIETY SHOWS

SPORTS ACADEMIES

FOOTBALL, BASKETBALL, SWIMMING , GYMNASTICS, TAEKWONDO, TENNIS SportsAcademyBSB BSBAPA thebsbh BritishSchoolBahrain

Academies: +973 1761 0943 +973 1761 0973 Email: academies@thebsbh.com www.britishschoolbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2015 57

interview

Selim Nseir

THE SUITE LIFE ANKITA MAMGAIN In the hospitality business, being the market leader is a never-ending challenge and Selim Nseir, Fraser Suites’ new general manager, is ready to take it up with gusto.

elim Nseir, the newly appointed general manager of Fraser Suites Bahrain, aims to ensure the company’s evolution and success with a range of exciting new initiatives. Sipping his espresso and signing documents in his office, Selim acknowledges that there isn’t much at the property that requires immediate attention. However, he reveals that there are plans in the pipeline to develop its dining venues and health club. “Fraser so far has been known for its quality rooms. I want to focus on other facilities as well, such as the restaurants and gym,” he says. The company is expanding at a rapid rate in the region with a property coming up in the island’s Diplomatic Area and one in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, scheduled to open this year. “I would attribute this success to Olivier Briand 58 January 2015

who established a strong presence of Fraser in the Gulf,” explains Selim. “It’s mainly because of his efforts that so many people are interested in Fraser and want to associate with the brand. Frasers Hospitality, the Singapore-based company, has established an indisputable authority on the luxury serviced accommodation market. It has more than 16,000 gold-standard residences across Europe, North Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Australia. The success of the company’s Bahrain property further underlines the standards it maintains, irrespective of the size of a market. “We have to proceed in the same direction that we are on at the moment. It’s the small touches that make all the difference,” Selim says. Selim believes that the company’s greatest asset is its staff, who are completely attuned to the Fraser work ethic, which is all about

respect for one another and a non-invasive yet personal style of service for the customer. “We want to make our customers’ stay luxurious and this is what we focus on in the rooms; providing the best when it comes to interiors, linens, upholstery, electronics and other facilities,” he says Selim believes that Fraser is different from most players in the luxury accommodation segment because the property does not follow industry fads. “The quality of our rooms, the simplicity of our reception and consistent quality of service is what sets us apart, and we want to maintain that,” he notes. “We intentionally do not want to increase the number of rooms. It would be financially beneficial but it could compromise the quality of service and that’s something we cannot allow at any cost.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

spotlight

Jaguar XF

JAGUAR LAND ROVER

BACKSEAT CHAT Starting 2015 on a musical note, our first backseat rendezvous is with DJ Outlaw, who has literally made the Kingdom dance to his tunes for more than two decades.

“I

was seriously introduced to music by my brother when I was in grade six,” says Mohammad Hassan (or DJ Outlaw as he is more popularly known). “My brother used to play a lot of Michael Jackson and I used to really enjoy the beats. It was somewhere in the ninth grade that I decided to become more involved in music than just being a fan.” Outlaw is one of Bahrain first DJs who now owns a music production company — Outlaw Productions — and is a mentor for artists such as Flipperachi and Daffy. He joined George F. Middleton for a candid conversation about his personal and professional journey in a shiny new Jaguar XF, while being driven around Amwaj Islands. www.bahrainthismonth.com

DJ Outlaw with George F Middleton

It was his large music collection that initially led him to DJ at family parties, something that laid the foundation for a career that would allow him to perform with international artists like G-unit and Ludacris, Yves Larock and Tabu of the Black Eyed Peas. He recalls the music scene back in 1997, when he started, as being essentially Khalijee. “I brought in hip hop which was a whole new thing at that time. My family was very supportive but people in general were a bit shocked initially,” he says. “We were at first dismissed as kids in baggy jeans, going through a phase.” It took him a long time to make people recognise hip hop as a culture and a serious art form. The evolution of the ‘scene’ is also reflected by the fact that his first studio album was only released after 10 years of being a musician. “We didn’t have the right kind of technical equipment, so it wasn’t a start-to-finish

process. We were recording every few months and I named it History in the Making because for me that’s exactly what it was; Bahrain’s first hip hop artist releasing an original album.” A child of the 90s, his musical influences included Michael Jackson, Kris Kross and Tupac. He also draws inspiration from producers such as Dr Dre, Timbaland and Neptune and DJ Jazzy Jeff. Some of his most successful projects have been Bahrain Unite and Arab World Unite, which surfaced during the time of the unrest. “These projects involved the youth and sent out a message of unity through music and are very special to me. My message through music, is always about unity and doing things together; we have a small region, lets connect with each other.” Watch the full-length interview with DJ Outlaw on www.bahrainthismonth.com and Bahrain This Month’s YouTube channel. January 2015 59

MOTORING

SHIFTING GEARS The Kingdom’s petrol heads are gearing up for 2015 and the imminent arrival of new models from Bahrain’s biggest motoring companies.

plethora of sleek sedans, racy roadsters, cool coupes and clever crossovers are set to take the island by storm this year. Bahrain This Month highlights some of the new models coming to a showroom near you and the special offers that come with them. Al Haddad Motors: The Kingdom’s dealer for Mercedes-Benz is set to welcome a number of new variants in its line-up, such as the ML 400, SL 400, CLS 400 and the new S-Coupe and CLA. The first half of the year will see the release of exciting AMG models, GLA, M-Class and GT offerings. The company’s used car division — ProvenExclusivity — provides customers with a minimum one-year warranty on used cars, unless the car has an extended warranty. Servicing with the dedicated service centre gives customers the satisfaction of getting their vehicle maintained by professionals who are specifically trained to handle their cars. Moreover, the warranty stays valid if the vehicle is maintained at the service centre. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ebrahim K. Kanoo: Both Toyota and Lexus are constantly upgrading their model line-up and introducing new models. This year, there will be both full model and minor changes in Toyota’s sedan and SUV segments, highlighting the Waki-Doki designs. Lexus will introduce new models into its line up including sedans and SUVs, as well as instigating changes in its existing models. It will also introduce a 2.0-litre turbo engine into its line-up and will launch the new Lexus NX in the premium SUV market. Both brands offer competitive warranty services — 4-year/150,000kms and 5-year/200,000kms for Toyota and Lexus respectively. Ebrahim K. Kanoo offers new vehicles for purchase, used cars for sale, car renting, tyre services and car care as well as repair and maintenance services. Motorcity Holding BSC: Carrying a number of brands including Volvo, Subaru, Citroen, SsangYong, Chery and Luxgen, customers are spoilt for choice. The company has passenger car showrooms at Sitra and Sanad, a commercial vehicles

ALSO THIS MONTH: 64 DODGE CHALLENGER 66 MERCEDES-BENZ

showroom at Nuwaidrat, a service centre at Ma’ameer, and parts centres at Ma’ameer, Salmabad and Muharraq. Motorcity offers new vehicles for purchase, used cars for sale and trade-in as well as repair and maintenance services. This year sees the arrival of several new models including: Subaru’s new Legacy sedan, Subaru Impreza sedan facelift, Chery Tiggo 3 and Tiggo 5 SUVs, new Volvo XC90 SUV, SsangYong X100 SUV, ISUZU MUX SUV and Luxgen new SUV. Its used car division — Motorcity Pre Owned Certified Vehicles — offers a certified preowned programme warranty on certified used cars. The manufacturer’s warranty or extended warranty, available on the vehicle at the time of selling, is passed on to the customer. By servicing their vehicle at the company’s workshop customers receive: A full-fledged service and repair infrastructure, trained technicians, genuine spare parts, availability of customised service packages, concierge service, courtesy car, 24 hours roadside assistance, low cost maintenance programme and 5-years/150,000 km warranty. January 2015 61

motoring

Euro Motors — Maserati Showroom: Fans of Italian finesse are spoiled for choice when it comes to Maserati. Euro Motors offers new vehicles for purchase, used cars for sales and repair and maintenance and car rental through Zayani Leasing. Major changes to the line-up of 2015 model year vehicles include the new 330bhp Quattroporte engine. Another change is the Ghibli all-wheel drive and the MC Stradale Centennial Edition. The company offers one year’s warranty on 2010 model year vehicles and above, if it doesn’t have a warranty. It also offers customers the option of extending their warranty for two years. The pre-owned and the certified pre-owned cars are no older than 2005 model year, while the certified pre-owned has to follow the following rules; car mileage should be less than 60,000km, not older than three years and maintained by the dealer. Almoayyed Motors: As a company known for quality, Almoayyed Motors is not content to rest on its laurels and this year will see the arrival of new designs presented with additional technology. Models to look out for include Ford Expedition, Ford Mustang, Ford Focus, Lincoln Navigator and Ford F150. Almoayyed Motors offers new vehicles for purchase, used cars for sale as well as repair and maintenance services.

The are several new additions/product improvement to the Volkswagen line-up for 2015 including the Scirocco, Scirocco R, Touareg, Jetta and Passat. The Volkswagen used car section — Das WeltAuto — offers optional one to two years warranty on any used car. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Service Centre is equipped with all the latest European tools and diagnostic equipment. Under Behbehani Brothers W.L.L., there is also a Vehicle Refinishing Centre. First Motors: The Kingdom’s dedicated Hyundai dealer offers new vehicles for purchase, used cars for sale, repair and maintenance and car rental through Zayani Leasing. The company has award-winning cars such as the new Genesis, which won the 2015 ALG’s residual value award. Another model to keep your eyes peeled for is the new Sonata, which has established a new standard for mid-size sedans, the company

says. It was included in 2014 IIHS top safety pick+ alongside the Genesis. This year will see the launch of the Grand i10, a vehicle, which boasts a marriage between breathtaking design and future skewed engineering. Lifetime warranties are offered on all Hyundai new and approved used vehicles (terms and conditions apply) and the company also offers Hyundai Premium Assurance Plus programme for Hyundai Luxury cars such as Centennial and Genesis, terms and conditions apply. The Hyundai Premium Assurance Plus includes 5-years /100,000kms maintenance service, five years roadside assistance, five years home to home service, five years service courtesy car, lifetime warranty, lifetime dedicated service advisor and a buy back value guarantee. The company has a repair and maintenance facility at the showroom in Sitra and another one for quick service in Salmabad. Porsche Centre Bahrain: Considered by many as the pinnacle of German engineering, Porsche is a brand with a welldeserved reputation for excellence. The Porsche Centre Bahrain offers new vehicles for purchase, used cars for sale as well as repair and maintenance facilities. Without revealing too many details, the company says the new 2015 Cayenne will be available during the first half of the year and there will be upgrades on other models to be announced soon. The Porsche Pre-owned Showroom is offering ‘Porsche Approved’ Pre-owned Cars with oneyear warranty on all cars purchased through the programme. The company has a workshop dedicated to Porsche cars with nine service bays and one dialogue bay. There is also a central body shop and an on-site tyre service facility.

Behbehani Brothers W.L.L. — Volkswagen Bahrain: This German marque is gaining popularity worldwide thanks to its combinations of style, safety and efficiency. It offers new vehicles for purchase, used cars for sale as well as repair and maintenance services. 62 January 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring AHMED ZAYANI & SONS

Best-in-class Horsepower New standout colours, more iconic stripes and dynamic wheel designs make the 2015 challenger impossible to ignore.

The new 2015 Dodge Challenger, featuring the fastest engine in the mid-sized sedan segment, was unveiled in an exclusive preview at the Ahmed Zayani & Sons showroom in Khamis. Zaid Hamed, general manager of Ahmed Zayani, said: “We were always up to the challenge when presenting the best in the automotive world. The new Dodge Challenger has been re-designed to deliver the fastest engine in the world in its category and the highest level of luxury ever. This model is a new definition of luxurious speed and safety.” The muscle-car delivers up to 485bhp, new R/T Scat Pack and 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker models, segment-first Torque Flite eight-speed transmission as standard and a new interior loaded with technology. To highlight the car’s performance abilities, the 2015 Dodge Challenger is designed with a performance

cockpit that embodies the trapezoidal-themed exterior in a more organically styled way. New electric power steering provides three driverselectable steering modes: Normal, Comfort and Sport. Tuning allows for more responsive steering for a spirited driving while maintaining ease in low-speed situations and when parking. Sport-tuned suspension with 18-inch wheels now standard on all Challenger SXT models, while all Challenger R/T models now include larger 20-inch wheels with lower profile side walls and wider 245-series rubber for crisp handling. Sport mode provides quick gear changes with the eight-speed Torque Flite automatic transmission, reducing shift times by 37 per cent. When Auto Stick is engaged with Sport mode, the driver can select and hold the desired gear without unexpected shifts.

2015 Dodge Challenger

64 January 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

PORSCHE CENTRE BAHRAIN

Ready for Action The new Cayenne has arrived at Porsche Centre Bahrain. Boasting enhanced performance and a sharpened design; it has more exciting features as standard.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Porsche aims to pack a punch with its new generation model which is available in three versions: Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo and Cayenne S E-Hybrid — the first plug-in hybrid in the premium SUV segment. This model, together with the Panamera S E-Hybrid and the 918 Spyder, makes Porsche the world’s only carmaker to offer three plug-in hybrid models.    The sleek new models deliver an impressive performance whether being driven through the city, in challenging off-road conditions or in the ultimate test; on the racetrack, the company says. All three new Cayenne models feature redeveloped engines that deliver higher torque than their predecessors, coupled with lower fuel consumption. The new models have an even sharper design with precise lines and purposefully placed light refracting edges. Front body, front wings, bonnet and air blades are also newly shaped. In addition to other modifications, the newly developed exhaust tailpipes are now incorporated in the lower rear section, while an automatically activating boot lid is fitted as standard. In the interior, much of the layout has been shaped around the driver, with a new multifunction sport steering wheel — which can also be found in the 918 Spyder — featuring shift paddles as standard. The rear seating system is even more comfortable, with optional seat ventilation now available for the first time. The new Cayenne models consume significantly less fuel, with the help of new features including a coasting function, a further advanced auto stop-start

function plus an optimised thermal management, with active cooling air flaps now being used for the first time in the Cayenne. The new Cayenne S E-Hybrid model has a lithiumion traction battery with an energy capacity of 10.8 kWh, which enables an all-electric driving range of 18 to 36 kilometres. The power of the electric motor has been more than doubled: from 47bhp to 95bhp. As a result of the brand’s advanced plug-in hybrid technology, the Cayenne S E-Hybrid has a fuel economy of 3.4-litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 79 grams per kilometre.    The three-litre 333bhp V6 supercharged engine and the 95bhp electric motor produce a combined system power of 416bhp at 5,500rpm. Acceleration from zero to 100km/h is accomplished in 5.9 seconds. Matching the Hybrid’s raw performance credentials is the all-new 3.6-litre V6 bi-turbo engine of the Cayenne S. The biturbo V6 develops a maximum power of 420bhp at 6,000 rpm — a gain of 20bhp. With its standard eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission, it accelerates from zero to 100km/h in just 5.5 seconds. Leading the model field is the Cayenne Turbo. Powered by a 4.8-litre bi-turbo V8 engine that produces 520bhp at 6,000rpm, it accelerates from zero to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds (4.4 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package) and reaches a top speed of 279km/h. Call the Porsche Centre Bahrain on 17 459-911. January 2015 65

motoring AL HADDAD MOTORS

Off-road Adventure CHARLIE HOLDING The Bahrain International Circuit’s off-road course has seen action from a variety of leading SUVs over the years and Mercedes-Benz is the latest to make its mark.

66 January 2015

Mercedes-Benz is brand known for its refinement and comfort, however, sadly the marque’s impressive offroad capabilities are sometimes overlooked. Aiming to prove that its range of SUVs are as practical as they are luxurious, Al Haddad Motors – the Kingdom’s dealer for Mercedes – held an off-road driving experience at the BIC and put a variety of its impressive models to the test. The line-up included the ML400, GLK 350 and GL 500. With a group of qualified instructors on hand, I was taken for a few laps around the course in each of the models before being given the chance to try it out for myself. I’ve been fortunate enough to have driven this course several times before with many other brands but somehow, this experience was different. It seemed more about finesse than force, which is a little funny when you factor in the amount of force under the bonnets of these SUVs. I think the reason few people brag about Mercedes off-roading ability is because anyone who forks out the cash for these gleaming models is reluctant to put them in harm’s way by testing their capabilities. However, the models at the track were insured and I was given the green light to put them through their paces.

For anyone unfamiliar with the BIC off-road course it is a 5.3km area peppered with obstacles to test the capabilities of both drivers and the vehicles. It aims to make ordinary drivers more aware of safety aspects and how to navigate different terrain. From rocky crawling areas and to scary perpendicular, 85-degree inclines to descend, this track is an adrenaline-filled experience.

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In the mighty GL500, with its V8 435bhp engine, the inclines were met with confidence. Even halfway up as the view turned from the ground to the sky, I felt totally comfortable and put my faith in German engineering. The biggest obstacle, however, was not on the track, it was in my head. The hill descent control is a fantastic — albeit presumably rarely used – feature which allows a smooth and controlled descent in rough terrain without the driver needing to touch the brake pedal. When on, the vehicle will descend using the ABS brake system to control each wheel’s speed. As I found myself perched atop a menacing hill, peering perilously over the edge the instructor in the passenger seat pushes a button and says: “OK, gently move forward and don’t touch the brake pedal.” Every instinct in my body told me to hit the brake but as soon as I started moving it became abundantly clear that the vehicle has it handled as I gently trickled to the bottom. One of the obstacles involved navigating a 45 degree turn, which lifted my front tyre off the ground. The ML400 easily compensated, providing power to the other three wheels and round I went. It’s amazing how smooth the ride can be, even at an angle. My favourite obstacle was called the Oasis, it involved a small descent which led to a small pool of water with a seesaw you had to balance the car on. This is all about driver’s skill but the climb out of the pool is all about the vehicle. All angles, obstacles and challenges were taken in stride in the gorgeous GLK350. The 306bhp engine has ample came apple power to complete any task in its way My day at the BIC proved beyond a shadow of a doubt, Mercedes SUVs aren’t just attractive, they mean business! www.bahrainthismonth.com

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motoring

BAHRAIN TIRE CENTRE

Advanced New Line-up Whether you drive a passenger car, luxury car, 4×4, SUV, light commercial or heavy duty truck, a reliable set of tyres is imperative for performance and safety.

68 January 2015

Poor tyres can reduce the performance of your car, increase your stopping distance and raise the risk of skidding. Furthermore, under-inflated or worn tyres increase fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Kumho, one of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers, has rolled out a new range of its most technologically advanced tyres to date in the Bahrain market - Solus and Ecsta. The new Kumho Solus is designed and built to withstand the rigours of urban driving thanks to its nondirectional tread design and low noise with Silica-based tread compound. The Kumho KH17 tyre is designed to deliver excellent handling, braking performance and wear resistance for family cars of all sizes, its makers say. It features an upgraded silica tread compound, optimum tread rib width and tread radius design which protects the tyre from external impact and enhances the durability of the casing. Meanwhile, the Ecsta SPT aims to provide the ideal fit for sports car owners on a budget and sedan owners looking for a sportier feel. The directional tread design provides excellent water drainage with intermediate and centre rib blocks that deliver steering response and ride comfort. Its silica tread compound delivers excellent wet and dry traction under normal or high-performance driving. It is available in staggered fitments and also features Kumho Tires’ XRP - Extended Run-Flat Technology. With its head office and manufacturing plant based in Korea, Kumho has a global presence across 180 countries and produces more than 68 million tyres every year. The company also sponsors motoring events such as European Formula 3 racing. The brand’s new line-up is available at 3K (Kwik, Kar, Kare), a reputed servicing brand with outlets located across the Kingdom.

3K offers a wide range of premium tyre brands, battery brands and lube brands to choose from. It also provides mechanised lube changes with premium brands like Caltex. Tyre changes are done on ultra modern tyre changing machines with computerised wheel alignment and all the necessary caster and camber adjustments. www.bahrainthismonth.com

One DNA yet two different cars. Effortless poise and assurance that gives progress a name. Guided along by a chassis to the very highest standards. Class and Luxury is defined in both our legendary models C-Class & the S-Class. So drive in style and join the class of legends. Call 17785454 to book your test drive. MercedesBenzBahrain MercedesBenzBAH AlHaddadMotors

Al Haddad Motors P.O. Box 242, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel: (+973) 17785454, marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com, www.bahrain.mercedesbenzme.com

motoring MOTORCITY

A New Legacy Motorcity, the distributor of Subaru in Bahrain, revealed the new 2015 Subaru Legacy sedan in an exclusive media preview event at the Subaru Showroom in Sitra.

The new Legacy is aiming to impress with its revamped look and list of new additions. Bijan Majidi, general manager of Motorcity, said: “The Subaru Legacy has been completely re-designed for 2015 to deliver a more compelling blend of standout design, interior refinement and safety features. The 2015 model is the best-equipped Legacy ever, with all trim lines adding new standard amenities and has the highest level of luxury ever in this model.” The new model combines sporty form with efficient function. A new front fascia that combines the hexagonal grille and bumper into one smooth piece highlights its sleek, coupe-like profile. Meanwhile, an aluminium bonnet reduces weight on the front end, enhancing steering response. Safety is an important factor and the 2015 Legacy comes with a number of impressive features as standard such as daytime running lights and a steering gear shifter. A new rollover sensor can deploy the side curtain airbags if an imminent rollover is detected and, for added comfort, the new model also features standard light and rain sensors. The 2015 Subaru Legacy introduces a new type of airbag restraint along with 4-sensor/4-channel ABS with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution. Under the bonnet of this sleek sedan is a fourcylinder BOXER engine. The double-overhead-cam (DOHC) FB series 2.5-litre engine produces 175bhp with a standard Lineartronic CVT. Subaru extensively revised and retuned the Legacy’s MacPherson strut front suspension and doublewishbone rear suspension for greater agility and a more compliant ride. New quick-ratio electric powerassisted steering not only helps with the drive, it also helps reduce fuel consumption. The Legacy 2.5i is equipped with standard 17-inch alloy wheels, and the Sport trims feature 18-inch alloy wheels. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, so the saying goes, and this model takes tips on its interior from the previous Legacy. The 2015 model offers the largest cabin space in the mid-sized segment, at 104.6 cubic foot. The Legacy 2.5i-S meanwhile boasts an 8-way power driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, the all-weather package, upgraded infotainment system, an air filtration system, leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lights and more. The infotainment has also received a revamp. The new standard 6.2 Infotainment System in the Legacy 2.5i provides AM/FM stereo, single-disc in-dash CD player, 6.2-inch multi-function touch-screen display with single-touch gesture control, Bluetooth handsfree phone connectivity and audio streaming, iPod control capability, USB port and auxiliary input jack. This model is now available at a launch price of BD7, 995 only. This is a limited offer available during the launch period only. Customers can book their test drive by calling the Subaru showroom in Sitra. Call 17 736-222 or visit www.motorcity.com.bh.

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BMW X6

EURO MOTORS

Turning Heads With its updated styling and revamped engines, the BMW X6 is set to make a huge impression on the Kingdom.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Euro Motors, the BMW Group importer in Bahrain, has unveiled the new X6, a Sports Activity Coupé with character in abundance. The second generation BMW X6 blends the robust versatility of a BMW X model with the sporting elegance typical of the brand’s coupés, its makers say. The interior has plenty of space with model-specific sports features and a luxurious ambience, while attractive design and equipment packages further highlight its style. Paul Yates, general manager, Euro Motors, said: “The new BMW X6 represents the pinnacle in motoring in the Sports Activity Coupé segment. We are confident that the latest version will help us to further bolster BMW’s position in Bahrain.” The Design Pure Extravagance equipment package adds striking accents to both the interior and the exterior. Meanwhile, the M Sport package includes specially selected features that enhance the vehicle’s eye-catching effect. Additionally, the new model comes with an exclusive roster of standard equipment including: bi-xenon headlights, 19-inch light-alloy wheels, automatic tailgate operation and the 8-speed Steptronic sport transmission with steering wheel shift paddle. It also features leather trim, two-zone climate control and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. Unsurprisingly for the German marque, the line-up of available engines includes the latest-generation V8 developing 450bhp for the BMW X6 xDrive50i and with

the BMW X6 xDrive35i 306bhp set to join the range later this year. BMW TwinPower Turbo technology ensures that the noticeably increased performance of the new BMW X6 is accompanied by an up to 22 per cent reduction in average fuel consumption. Handling has also been improved as a result of the standard – and permanently active – intelligent allwheel-drive system, BMW xDrive. It optimises traction, directional stability and cornering dynamics, as the situation requires. For improved dynamics, xDrive can optionally link up with adaptive suspension packages, including Dynamic Performance Control. For increased performance, Dynamic Performance Control is offered together with Dynamic Drive active roll stabilisation as part of the Dynamic adaptive suspension package to deliver a targeted improvement in the car’s sporty handling attributes. Adaptive LED headlights, Comfort Access (including hands-free tailgate opening and closing) and other options all add to this vehicle’s appeal. Other available features include the Navigation System Professional with Touch Controller, Bang & Olufsen high-end surround-sound system and new Rear Entertainment System Professional. A wide variety of features are available through BMW ConnectedDrive including BMW Head-Up Display, Driving Assistant Plus with Traffic Jam Assistant, the BMW Parking Assistant, Surround View and BMW Night Vision with Dynamic Light Spot and Speed Limit Info. January 2015 71

downtime gadgets LULU HYPERMARKET

Tech Update GoPro Digital Camcorder Hero 4Silver

Get involved with Lulu Hypermarket’s great gadget offerings this month.

Samsung 40-inch Smart LED TV

GoPro is undeniably the king of the action camera market. Capture striking 4K video in a wide array of environments using this GoPro action camera, which features a standard waterproof housing.

Lenovo Tab Yoga 2 1050 10.1-inch 16GB The 10.1-inch screen has a wide angle IPS display with 1920 x 1200 resolution, and 10-point multi-touch support. The battery life is obviously not just good, but the best among all tablets, by far, at 18 hours.

Dell XPS 18 It’s the new year, of course you need a new laptop! The latest Dell XPS 18 is thin, easy to tote around the house and delivers five + hours of battery life. Whether you’ll use it as a giant tablet or a touch-screen desktop, this computer is portable as well as versatile.

If you want to watch a football match and feel like you’re at the stadium, this Samsung LED TV could do the trick. Using an advanced picture quality improvement algorithm, Samsung’s Wide Colour Enhancer Plus drastically improves the quality of any image and uncovers hidden details.

Samsung 50-inch UHD LED TV Now this is what we’re talking about. Samsung’s innovative processing enhances broadcast TV shows and movies as well as video on demand and more. Not only does it process UHD sources at a crisp 4K resolution, it even converts lower-resolution content to a level of clarity that’s almost like Ultra High Definition.

Samsung Galaxy Note Edge The screen is curved – but no fear, it doesn’t distort the pixels at all. Other features worth noting are: 5.6-inch quad HD super AMOLED display, plus second edge display and always-on and expanded multitasking home row.

Sharp 50-inch LED TV With a 120Hz refresh rate, this Sharp HDTV reduces visual judder, making images appear smooth and lifelike to the human eye. The MHL-enabled design supports 1080p video and 5.1-channel sound playback from your enabled phone or tablet, so you can bring your favourite media to the big screen.

Sony SmartBand Talk The Sony SmartBand Talk's e-ink display makes it easy to see your activity, the time and incoming notifications. The display uses very little power so battery life is pretty good and its ability to take calls comes in handy when you're too busy (or too lazy) to fumble for your phone.

Sharp 60-inch LED TV This LED TV boasts better overall picture quality than most competing TVs. Black levels and shadows are dark and detailed and colour is accurate. This model sports a new "Wallpaper Mode" that can display preinstalled artwork or photos from a USB drive when the unit is powered down.

Lulu Hypermarket can be found at Dana Mall, Hidd, Ramli Mall and East Riffa www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2015 73

gadgets

Cool Tools Start the year off by checking out the best gadgets we’ve selected for work, home and travel.

Pops of Colour The Ricoh Theta M15 is a simple-looking device capable of capturing a spherical panoramic image in an instant at the mere click of a button. What’s more, you can capture 360° stills and videos without having to pan, spin or stitch.

Port Authority Is your home a battleground when it comes to charging your devices? The Chargehub is a one stop charger that powers up to seven devices simultaneously. And don’t worry – speed isn’t compromised.

Crunch Time If you haven’t already, get yourself some Apple TV. We’ve officially let go of CDs and DVDs and anything that you need to physically buy for that matter. Apple TV gives you access to tons of great HD content in a tiny package. Enjoy blockbuster movies, TV shows, live sports and news, your music, photos and more.

Need for Speed The G-Drive ev SSD is a state-of-the-art drive with a high-speed USB 3.0 interface – delivering transfer rates of up to 400MB/s. It’s slick, it’s quick and will sort out any creative professional’s files with no hassle.

74 January 2015

Ready to Rock These Wi-Fi speaker adaptors will stream music from any device and can fill a room with that surround sound you’re after. ROCKI can be taken on the road too with four-hour rechargeable batteries.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Snap Attack The Pentax Q-S1 has been equipped with 12.4 megapixels, an A1/1.1-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensor, a sensitivity range of ISO 100-12800 and ultrasonic vibrating ‘DRII’ sensor cleaner. Get clicking.

Spinning Around We know how important it is to keep safe on the roads when you’re cycling, which is why a little red flashing light won’t do anymore. The MonkeyLectric lights will set you on a funky path of style and safety at the same time. We’re talking 360° of visibility here.

Clean Sweep Most people use their devices 24/7 and, as a result, they get dusty and full of bacteria laden finger prints – so it’s more important than ever to keep them clean. Mist Screen Cleaner is an all-in-one microfibre cloth and gentle cleaning spray that kills up to 99 per cent of bacteria without harsh chemicals or abrasives.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Men in Black The battle is on! With Apple bringing out their smartwatch, the Motorola 360 hasn’t got much time (pun intended) to make an impression. Since it doesn’t offer 3G, it is more of an accessory, but there’s a 1.5-inch (320×290, 205ppi) display with Gorilla Glass 3, and 4GB of internal storage.

January 2015 75

music

JUST DANCE If you’ve still got some energy leftover from New Year’s Eve, check out these top-of-the- range dance albums to keep the party going.

Listen (Deluxe) — David Guetta Rating: *****

Top Tracks: Dangerous and Lovers on the Sun.

What’s the story?

He’s possibly the most smiley DJ ever. David Guetta is a household name across the globe. The Frenchman is known for air punching and just generally throwing his hands in the air when playing to thousands of people. Listen (Deluxe) is David’s sixth studio album and he says it is his most personal album and the music reflects his divorce from his wife of 22 years. "Until today I was doing lots of songs about happiness and love and sexiness and just having a party — it was basically my life, you know? And lately, my personal life has been a little more difficult, so it reflects also on the album. I've never done this, because even for me it was all about making people dance,” he says. The album tries to steer away from the urban and dance sound that launched him onto the scene with One Love (2009). Well, we can’t say it’s not a dance album, but at least he tried.

Worth a listen?

There’s never a reason not to listen to David Guetta. Yes, some songs sound similar, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing as they all put you in a good mood. Lovers on the Sun featuring Sam Martin is a powerhouse dance number (and knowing about David’s recent divorce, the lyrics will make a lot of sense). It is a song that gets better each time you hear it. Meanwhile, David’s remix of Shot Me Down is explosive.

Verdict: There is a good amount of soul within the album, giving it a refreshing spin on the dance genre. However, rest assured, you’ll be pulsing all over with these tunes.

THE INEVITABLE END — RÖYKSOPP After catapulting on to the scene with Eple in 2001, the Norwegian electronica duo: Röyksopp have had a modest but far reaching reputation for their weird and wonderful music. Sadly the dynamic duo’s work is coming to an end but they have said this: “We feel like this is a goodbye to the traditional album format. In

our consecutive run of albums, we have been able to say what we want to say and do what we want to do. We’re not going to stop

making music, but the album format as such, this is the last thing from us.” There is something so addictive about their music, their songs will remain epic anthems forever. Every song is good on this album, but if we had to pick favourites, go for Compulsion and Goodnight Mr. Sweetheart.

MOTION — CALVIN HARRIS

ANTHEMS HOUSE — MINISTRY OF SOUND If you don’t know what you really want, but know you want to get your rhythm going, Anthems House is an easy way to get into the mood. Feauring various artists including: The Shapeshifters, Basement Jaxx, Soul Central and Bob Sinclair, all the radio edits are nice and long. This album will take you back to your younger clubbing days and you’re going to love it. Cue some seriously cheesy dance moves.

Motion is the fourth studio album by Scottish disc jockey and record producer Calvin Harris. When it comes to the dance-music Midas touch, Calvin Harris is the undisputed king right now. Listen to Slow Acid and Summer on repeat for that ‘don’t-care-for-anything-in-the-world right now’ feel. 76 January 2015

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games

GIVE IT A GO As ever, the games market this month is brimming with razor-sharp gameplay. And with the inevitable January blues, kick yourself in to action with these fantastic games.

VERDICT: This is a gripping survival game which, in all seriousness, is about a harrowing part of history.

This War of Mine Rating: *****

What Is It?:

This War of Mine is a war survival game based on the Siege of Sarajevo. It provides an experience of war seen from an entirely new angle. You do not play as an elite soldier, but rather a group of civilians trying to survive in a besieged city. During the day, snipers stop you from leaving your refuge, so you need to focus on maintaining your hideout. At night you get a chance to scavenge nearby locations for items that will help you stay alive. Make life-and-death decisions driven by your conscience. Try to protect everybody from your shelter or sacrifice some of them to endure the hardships. During war, there are no good or bad decisions; there is only survival. The sooner you realise that, the better.

The Crew Take part in a mission to infiltrate and overtake the 510s — a gang grown around Detroit’s illegal street racing scene. Your plan? Get a rep on the underground-racing scene and sabotage their activities city-by-city all across the USA. Manoeuvre through the bustling streets of New York City and Los Angeles, cruise down sunny Miami Beach or trek through the breathtaking plateaus of Monument Valley. Each locale comes with its own set of surprises and challenges to master. On your journey you will encounter other players on the road — all potentially companions to join, or future rivals to compete against. This is driving at its most exciting, varied and open. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Graphics:

Visually appealing, a breathtaking experience will leave you frightened at the consequences of the war and its true horrid nature. The problem a lot of players have had is the fact that it is very dark. Some have said that they can only see the outlines of characters. If there are people in a certain location, they don’t know they’re there until they start talking or murdering people. That said, the graphics are clean and attractive in an irksome way. The moody soundtrack adds further value.

WWE 2K15 Ding ding ding, we’ve got a new era of WWE. WWE 2K15 aims to usher in a new era of WWE video games with 2K Showcase Mode, improved graphics, top commentary talent and more. Relive the groundbreaking rivalries of John Cena vs. CM Punk and Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels in a new single player campaign told through your gameplay and historic WWE footage. Create your own superstar, or customise WWE superstars and divas, move-sets and entrances. Take control of WWE as your actions shape your universe: storylines, schedule, rivalries, alliances and more!

Gameplay: This War of Mine is a dark

survival game where the player controls a team of civilian survivors in a besieged war torn city. The main goal of the game is to survive the war with the tools and materials the player can gather with the characters they control. The characters you control are not ready for war and will mostly start off with slight sickness and hunger during the starting days of wars. During the daytime, the sniper will prevent the survivor from venturing outside therefore offering precious time to cure your survivors.

The Binding of Isaac Rebirth When Isaac’s mother starts hearing the voice of God demanding a sacrifice be made to prove her faith, Isaac escapes into the basement facing droves of deranged enemies, lost brothers and sisters, his fears, and eventually his mother. Following Isaac on his journey, players will find bizarre treasures that change Isaac’s form, giving him super human abilities and enabling him to fight off droves of mysterious creatures, discover secrets and fight his way to safety. This re-engineered edition of The Binding of Isaac includes new game material, modes, characters and areas, as well as other adjustments customised for this release. January 2015 77

websites

www.forgotify.com Rating: *****

Dosa Plaza Restaurant Opening Dosa Plaza Restaurant held its soft opening at Ashraf’s in Hoora. The event was attended by HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, Mala Kumar and Amal Almoayyed, executive director of Ashraf’s. HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Mala Kumar inaugurate Dosa Restaurant

VERDICT: Spotify has had its day; Forgotify is on top... for now.

What Is It?

We’re sure you’re familiar with Forgotify’s big brother, Spotify yes? Well, this database is built on all the previously unheard tracks on Spotify.

The Good:

You’ll be in for a variety treat of songs from all over the world – the music that got put on the backburner. When you listen through the tracks you’ll go from operatic French modernist music to instrumental church hymns to a bit of Tchaikovsky. Even though the songs aren’t necessarily new, it’s nice to listen to undiscovered music. Jalil, Ali & Ravindran

Sushil

The Bad:

Perhaps there is a reason that these tracks have been left to sit in obscurity. While the randomness keeps things interesting, the selection is a bit odd, but you’ve got to have an open mind and ear for Forgotify. You’ll find yourself skipping a lot of the tracks, but when you find that gem, it’s totally worth trawling through the songs.

www.hotelwifitest.com Mazen Al Umran & Bob

Raj & Muthuraman

We can’t believe that some hotels in 2015 don’t have a proper Wi-Fi. Luckily, with the Hotel Wi-Fi Test you can report any Internet Prem, Muthu, Sathish

Alok & Shariq

78 January 2015

Divakaran

Peter

Dilip

issues. Hotel Wi-Fi Test relies on travellers to report speed tests back to the service, compiling the data to return average speeds for on each hotel. The site features speeds for hotels in many major cities, and if a hotel hasn’t undergone speed tests, Hotel Wi-Fi Test provides an average expected speed instead. Even if you find yourself in the depths of Africa, you’ll be assisted.

www.haikudeck.com

Do you have several presentations to prepare and find yourself in need of sprucing up the visual factor? Meet Haiku Deck. While Microsoft PowerPoint is still the standard for presentations, using its cluttered interface feels like you’re being boxed into old school formats. Haiku Deck, by

comparison, is actually kind of fun and it doesn’t demand much know-how to get started. www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

MONEY TALKS With the holidays officially over and your purchasing power wearing a little thin, perhaps it would be wise to invest in these money management apps so you can start the year with your finances in check.

POCKET EXPENSE RATING: *****

What Is It?

Two words: budget management. Pocket Expense brings all your financial accounts together, categorises your transactions, tracks all your bills, lets you set budgets and helps you achieve your savings goals. In just minutes, you’ll see where your money is going and where you could save money. Not only will the app set your finances clearly, it will help you understand where your money is going and how you can save better.

The Good:

This app is perfect for tracking spending vs. income and seeing what you are spending your money on. What really helps you to keep your finances in check is the fact that all your accounts are visible on the same page, making it easier to manage. At the end of each cycle, all information for a budget is archived and can be easily viewed for comparative purposes. You can always see how much money is left until your budget is gone. If you’re the type to forget a bill payment, the app has an alert feature to give you a little nudge. Oh, and it’s free!

The Bad:

It’s very difficult to find faults in this app seeing as it makes you more aware and money savvy — although if you’re still on iPhone 4, it’s time to upgrade because this app only works with an iPhone 5 and above. If we’re being picky about what’s bad with this app, it doesn’t have an Arabic version within its language options, but the app gets updated often enough, so we’re sure it will be available soon.

Verdict:

For what can be a messy and stressful part of life, this app is a simple and friendly way to fix your finances.

SHORTS: Xapo – Bitcoin Wallet & Vault

Bitcoin is the financial buzzword of the moment. For those still in the dark about the phenomenon, Bitcoin is a type of digital currency www.bahrainthismonth.com

in which encryption techniques are used to regulate the generation of units of currency and verify the transfer of funds, operating independently of a central bank. Xapo is a mobile bitcoin wallet and vault that combines convenience and industry-leading security for managing your bitcoins and sending money to friends or family. Simply scan a QR code or enter an email address, name or wallet/ vault address to instantly send money anywhere in the world.

iCurrencyPad

Planning on taking a holiday this January? Be on top of the

exchange rates with this layman friendly app which does all the calculations for you, gives an up-to-the-minute exchange rates ‘electronic board’ and detailed charts of historical price trends. The simple interface makes it easy to select the currencies you want to convert. While iCurrencyPad offers exchange rates for 160+ currencies, you may be interested in only a few currencies. To reduce clutter on the screen, iCurrencyPad allows you to select and sort your favourite currencies. January 2015 79

movies

BMMI Hops Festival BMMI held its popular drinks festival, Hops Festival at Café Amsterdam. Guests enjoyed 30 unique new brews from ten different countries accompanied by BBQ-style bites and a band.

A Most Violent Year Rating: *****

Max. Stephen, Chris, Jessica & Mel

VERDICT: A Most Violent Year redefines the crime drama genre and highlights a very important part of New York City history with artistic prowess.

Directed By: J.C. Chandor Starring: Oscar Isaac, Jessica Chastain and David Oyelowo

The Plot:

Usha, Vivek & Karishma

Nilanta & Shiva

This is a crime drama set in New York City during the winter of 1981, which was statistically one of the most violent years in the city’s history. The plot follows the lives of an immigrant and his family trying to expand their business and capitalise on opportunities as the rampant violence, decay and corruption of the day drag them in and threaten to destroy all they have built.

Worth Watching? You really get a sense that you’re

Rosie, Lauren & Mama-Jan

Paul & Micky

Marcia, Carol & Alicia

Yasmin & Charlie

Rajiv, Ian, Basim & James

Reza, Dr Buhman, Kambeez & Unis

80 January 2015

Noor

watching an updated 2015 version of Goodfellas — without the Italian background. Being a big budget crime drama you’d expect big names to match, but that’s what is great about this film; director J.C. Chandor has got the underused, and quite frankly unsung hero of Hollywood, Oscar Issac, to play the leading role. Despite the obvious violence, the film is brimming with profound characters, stunning direction and a slow simmering, but captivating plot.

TAKEN 3

MORTDECAI

When in doubt, get Liam Neeson to help out. The Northern Irish actor has become a household name for being the go-to hero to save the day. Returning for the third time in the Taken franchise as ex-covert operative Bryan Mills, Neeson is on fine form. Consumed with rage after his ex-wife is murdered and he is framed for the crime, he goes on the run to evade the relentless pursuit of the CIA, FBI and the police. For one last time, Mills must use his ‘particular set of skills’ to track down the real killers, exact his unique brand of justice and protect the only thing that matters to him now — his daughter.

Juggling some angry Russians, the British MI5, his impossibly leggy wife and an international terrorist, debonair art dealer and part time rogue Charlie Mortdecai is a man on a mission. As he traverses the globe armed only with his good looks and charm, he finds himself in a race against time to recover a stolen painting rumored to contain the code to a lost bank account filled with Nazi gold. Mortdecai will remind you of the same slapstick, falling over air comedy of The Pink Panther with Steve Martin. Johnny Depp is his usual quirky self, but this time with a highly-strung Queen’s English accent and a ‘man servant’. www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING

SAVOURING A LEGACY ANKITA MAMGAIN This patisserie has preserved its culinary traditions for more than five generations and continues to serve timeless classics alongside more contemporary offerings.

midst tonnes of factory-produced food and overly sophisticated cooking techniques — a highlight at most restaurants today — some might consider artisan eateries a thing of the past or even a bit passé. However, no matter which side of the debate you are on, wholesome, satisfying and delicious food always triumphs; who cares if it comes from a Michelin star kitchen or your very own neighbourhood café? A delicate combination of tastes, textures and the interaction between the servers and customers is what goes into creating a truly remarkable dining experience. This idea isn’t too far-fetched, as one quickly realises upon visiting Paul’s Café and Restaurant. Present at two busy locations, City Centre Bahrain and Seef Mall, Paul’s is a world apart from the busy alleys that surround it. You are instantly transported from the hustle and bustle by its ergonomic setting as you settle at your table. It’s impossible to ignore the sensational www.bahrainthismonth.com

selection of desserts and breads on display that create an intoxicating aroma throughout the entire venue. Just as you drift off into a culinary daydream the friendly staff whisks you back to reality with a beaming smile and a warm greeting. The menu caters to all kinds of appetites, from quick snacks to soups, salads to sandwiches and more elaborate meals. There are some new additions that look particularly attractive. One of them is salade quinoa nature, which consists of mixed greens, quinoa, fresh asparagus, marinated cherry tomatoes and artichokes served with lemon dressing. Another interesting leafy preparation is salade de crevette a`la fenouille et mangue, which features poached shrimp, fresh mango, fennel, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes and carrots served on a bed of greens with mango mayonnaise. This combination of flavours seemed risky, but it proved to be both innovative and delicious. There are plenty of choices for the main course but the latest additions are sure to catch your eye. A highly recommended

ALSO THIS MONTH: 82 DINING HAPPENINGS 85 CAMELOT

preparation is the hammour ratatouille. This is food at its most basic and bountiful. The flavours are spot on and the fish pairs wonderfully with the grilled asparagus. Served with zesty rice, the dish comes alive with the creamy lemon pesto sauce. Paul’s also introduces a new range of steaks. Try filet de boeuf grillèt patates, which is a succulent beef tenderloin served with roasted Holland potatoes and winter vegetables. You can also go for bavette de boeuf grille — a strip loin steak, grilled to perfection and served with crushed pepper, pommes pont-neuf, wild mushroom, green beans and mushroom sauce. Leaving Paul’s without having dessert is unthinkable, so make sure to save room for pudding. There is a long list to choose from; however, you must try the éclairs, macrons and tiramisu in a cup. Decadently creamy with a thin layer of espresso-soaked cake, it can instantly make the world seem like a better place. A 125-year-old institution, Paul’s has successfully retained the artisan appeal of the originally established boulangerie in 1889. January 2015 81

dininghappenings

When? January 3 Event? Italian cooking classes Venue? Fiamma, Sofitel Bahrain Learn to cook home style Italian dishes from the experts. E Call 17 636-363.

What’s on your Plate?

When? January 13 Event? Five Magical Moments dinner Venue? MAKI You can sample 15 staple Maki dishes for just BD15++. E Call 17 522-733. When? January 15- 20 Event? Food and Art promotion Venue? Plums, The Ritz-Carlton Indulge in delectable works of art by Chef Yann Bernard Lejard. E Call 17 580-000.

From brand new eateries to great dinner deals, here’s our monthly round up of F&B happenings around town.

Many restaurants across the Kingdom claim to serve authentic cuisine, which can sometimes be hard to dispute if you have no point of reference. So, the only way to truly find out the truth is to try the food for yourself. Claiming to have the widest variety of dosas on its menu, the aptly named Dosa Plaza opens its doors this month at the Ashrafs in Hoora. The restaurant can accommodate 120 customers and doubles up as banquet hall for birthday parties, conferences and private events. So, drop in to have a taste of some really interesting dosas such as the ones with innovative Chinese and Mexican fillings. Golden Tulip offers your senses a trip to Beirut at its Lebanese restaurant Al Mawal. Expected to open at the end of the month, it boasts stunning interiors and a menu replete with traditional recipes and their contemporary interpretations. Yes Chef! Chef Ilango Muthiah takes charge as the new complex executive chef for both Le Meridien and The Westin Hotel. An avid traveller, he has visited 94 countries and this is reflected in his cooking as he incorporates different flavours and textures into his menus. 82 January 2015

Supper sweepstakes Pizza lovers are invited at Rialto in Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa to take advantage of a ‘buy one get one free’ offer on its gourmet pizzas. Rialto’s menu aims to take you on a culinary journey around Italy, offering a memorable fine dining experience. MAKI is hosting the famous Five Magical Moments dinner on January 13 at 8.30pm. Visitors can sample 15 staple Maki dishes along with beverage pairings for BD15++ per person. The Japanese theme continues at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel throughout the month as Al Nada Lounge and Soie Restaurant both offer a special maki promotion, starting at BD3.2++ per person. Enjoy a sumptuous selection of food and art at Plums in the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. Running from January 15 to 20, this la carte feast by Chef Yann Bernard Lejard is an inspiring combination of flavours and scents. Cooking classes Learn how to cook authentic Italian dishes with chef Stefano on January 3, at Fiamma in Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. This interactive session is priced at BD18 and ends in a decadent lunch with beverages. You can also learn the nuances of Japanese cuisine by taking part in a class held at Wok on January 17.

When? January 17 Event? Cooking classes Venue? Wok, Sofitel Bahrain Get a crash course in Japanese cooking from the experts. E Call 17 636-363. When? Throughout January Event? New menu Venue? Block 338 Restaurant Try out the recently introduced dishes at this garden restaurant. E Call 17 710-338. When? Throughout January Event? Pizza promotion Venue? Rialto, Ramee Grand Take advantage of the buy one get one free offer on pizzas. E Call 17 111-999. When? Throughout January Event? Maki promotion Venue? The Sheraton Bahrain Enjoy a wide selection of maki rolls at Al Nada and Soie restaurants. E Call 17 533-533. When? Throughout January Event? New theme night Venue? Camelot Restaurant & Lounge Sample chicken lollipop wings and unlimited selected beverages every Wednesday. E Call 39 977-540.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningfeature

Are You Being Served? Michelin Magic With the opening of Rasoi by Vineet, Gulf Hotel has become the first venue in Bahrain to offer a Michelin star dining experience. A signature venture by twotime Michelin starred chef, Vineet Bhatia, the sprawling restaurant serves his signature take on traditional Indian recipes. Following suit is the upcoming property, The Four Seasons Bahrain. It was announced in 2014 that the hotel is to house three restaurants by renowned Michelin starred chef Wolfgang Puck. Five Star Gastronomy There are a number of fabulous five star hotels on the island and each one of them boasts outstanding F&B venues. The list is fairly long, from the fourdecade old Gulf Hotel to the more recent Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa. Customer’s expectations of these venues are high and this is what keeps the staff on their toes. Some have been revered for decades as others have been changed or modified recently, but all of these haut eateries offer world-class dining opportunities. Saffron at Al Areen Palace and Spa is a luxurious venue to try out authentic Kahleeji cuisine. Keizo on the other hand is the resort’s Far Eastern restaurant, an impressive place surrounded by the palace’s lake, overlooking the waterfall.

ANKITA MAMGAIN The Kingdom’s appetite for fantastic food is truly insatiable. Bahrain This Month provides you with an essential guide to fine dining, Dilmun style.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

As a child I remember going to five star restaurants with my parents for special celebrations - the kind that come just one or twice a year. Growing up in the 90s in New Delhi, there were a number of reasonably accomplished posh eateries around, but when it came to culinary extravagance, it had to be at a five star hotel. So my first experience of fine dining involved being all dressed up at a table decked out with fancy linen, beautifully folded napkins and a multitude of silverware for a dinner that was a minimum of five courses and took about three hours to eat. Fine dining isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience that combines the finest food, service and atmosphere. This is something the Kingdom certainly has a penchant for. From up coming Michelin Star venues to elegant eateries, Bahrain is a little island with a big appetite for gastronomy. January 2015 83

diningfeature

Gulf Hotel boasts upwards of 17 dining venues such as Sato, Fusions and Takht Jamsheed, which offer a variety of cuisines for its loyal clientele. The Ritz-Carlton is a brand that instantly evokes a sense of style and spoils the diners with restaurants such as the tranquil La Med to Plums, Nirvana and Primevara. Baharat at Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre is a great place to try out traditional Lebanese food and at Saveur, located inside The Westin; diners can sample a variety of international cuisines. On the pristine shores of Zallaq, lies Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thallasa Sea & Spa, home to world-class restaurants such as Fiamma, Peshawat and Wok. Luxury boutique hotel, The Domain Bahrain, has its Level 34 dedicated to Southern French cuisine and houses a chic steakhouse. Other hotels that boast an enviable fleet of fine dining venues are, The Sheraton Bahrain, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain, Crowne Plaza, the InterContinental Regency and the The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Boutique Bites While the style and grandeur of big hotels is undeniably appealing, the charm of a small, yet refined boutique eatery is truly unmatched. Adliya’s plush gastronomic hub, Block 338, is a unique spot where a colony of some of the best independent restaurants has emerged. BMMI’s Spanish joint La Vinoteca Barcelona and continental kitchen at Café Amsterdam are the latest and perhaps the most happening fine dining venues in town at the moment. Camelot, nestled in a medieval chateau, offers great food and boasts one of most stellar selections of grape beverages on the island. Curry connoisseurs can head to Lanterns while for those who want to try contemporary Asian gastronomy — the address is Meisei. Maki, at Bahrain World Trade Centre thrives on innovation and is known for its fresh ideas. Bushido, another remarkable restaurant, is a Japanese venue in Seef and Pasquale, in Reef Island is fast becoming a popular choice among serious fine-diners. 84 January 2015

What’s trending? As fine dining constantly evolves, there are a number of new trends to watch out for in 2015. • Attack of the ‘locavore’: It’s all about eating local, super local. Although a bit of a challenge for kitchen staff, restaurants will proudly talk about the local produce that goes into their food. • Touch of humanity: As established, fine dining is a lot more than just what is eaten. The customers want to know if the restaurant uses sustainable methods and treats its staff well. The spotlight shifts on the people behind the food. • The healthy diet: Maki and many other restaurants have already jumped on this band wagon but the trend of introducing healthy recipes will continue to grow. • Size does matter: Tapas and dim sums have been on the tip of every foodie’s tongue in recent years. Now, customers can expect other aspects of the menu to get smaller as well. • It’s got to be Instagood: The F&B industry is aware of the role of social media as a form of instant publicity. Blaze Burgers got a taste of that when DJ Imran Al Aradi posted a picture of one of their desserts. From the plating and presentation to involving theatrics in service, the new meals will give bragging rights to diners.

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dining

CAMELOT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

It’s Tapas Time This quaint culinary haven spices things up in sensational Spanish style each week with great food, drinks and entertainment.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Spanish are known for their fervour and they have undeniably taught the world a thing or two about having fun. Adliya’s famous castle-themed Camelot Restaurant & Lounge captures this ambience every week with its Sangria vs Tapas night. Be part of this fiesta and indulge in tasty tapas, an endless supply of beverages and great music every Sunday. “This is a night dedicated to Spanish splendour, flavour, music and culture,” says Anna Roadilla, the venue’s assistant restaurant manager. “Every Sunday you can eat like a king and enjoy our delicious tapas with unlimited selected beverages for BD15 per person.” Tapas is one of the most popular traditional Spanish dishes, originally created to be nibbled and enjoyed with friends. Camelot’s antipasti spread boasts a variety to suit all tastes. “Our extensive buffet offers you a range of Spanish cuisine and, if unsure of what to pick, just ask our helpful staff,” says Anna. In addition to the gourmet bites and beverages, live entertainment is provided by Nathalie Karlsson. “We offer a complete package, food, beverages and entertainment. This is the reason that Sangria vs Tapas night has become one of the greatest Spanish theme nights in town and delivers an amazing dining experience that you’ll be sure to remember.”

Wednesday Night Out Camelot hosts a new weekly theme night called Hot & Cold Wednesdays. From 8pm till midnight, you can sample fiery chicken lollipop wings along with unlimited selected beverages for only BD15. Add a little zing to your meal by choosing from a range of sauces such as BBQ, curry and buffalo (Louisiana hot sauce). Nathalie Karlsson fills the air with her soulful melodies and gets you in the mood for the weekend ahead. “Our philosophy is simple: great food, great beverages and a great atmosphere. This is what we try to deliver consistently to our customers,” adds Anna. In addition to this, the restaurant has a number of ongoing weekly attractions. On Mondays, you can enjoy unlimited moules et frites (mussels and handcut fries) for BD14 per person. For an extra BD8, you get unlimited selected beverages and fries. Tuesdays are when you embrace the grape in all its splendour and taste varieties from around the world at The Grape Escape. This theme night has been running for almost a decade, and is the only dedicated weekly vintage tasting on the island. Call 17 717-745 or 39 977-540. January 2015 85

dining

Keizo

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

Taste of Royalty At this majestic property, you can sample the very best of Arabic hospitality, with the experience reaching regal proportions as you enter its F&B venues.

86 January 2015

Al Areen Palace & Spa enjoys a special status, as the island’s only five-star resort that is also a palace. This expansive property attracts foreign nationals and locals alike and provides an affluent oasis, far from the trappings of the urban jungle. Only 35 minutes from Bahrain International Airport and five minutes away from the world-famous Bahrain International Circuit, Al Areen houses 78 villas, each with a private pool. A venue as regal as Al Areen boasts great food and beverage outlets, offering visitors some of the best regional and international cuisine available. Rimal is the hotel’s all-day-dining restaurant and offers a healthy selection of dishes. From a lavish breakfast to a relaxed lunch and a decadent dinner; the kitchen specialises in a range of international fare which can be enjoyed a la carte. You can relax in its laid back ambience and unwind in the resort’s tranquil atmosphere. The restaurant opens at 6.30am for breakfast and the last order is taken at 10.30pm. Saffron is the hotel’s fine dining venue and offers Khaleeji cuisine. The venue boasts high ceilings and magnificent Middle Eastern décor with the dining area overlooking the outdoor pool. The menu includes traditional favourites as well as modern preparations that capture the region’s flavour. Experience dishes that blend European and Khaleeji culinary traditions to

Saffron

produce a veritable feast for the palate. The restaurant serves lunch from noon till 3.30pm and opens for dinner from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Uncover the gastronomic treasures of the Orient at Keizo, Al Areen’s Far Eastern fusion restaurant. Here you can sample the very best of Japanese, Chinese and Thai fine dining. This is one of the most beautiful venues on the island, surrounded by Al Areen’s lake and overlooking the grand waterfall. There are private tables placed outdoors, which can make an intimate dining experience even more magical. It serves lunch from noon to 3.30pm and the dinner service runs from 6.30pm till 10.30pm. Senses Lounge invites visitors to indulge in its delicious pastries and freshly baked cakes. Open from 9am to 10pm, the cafe has a wide selection of hot and cold beverages to choose from. Call 17 845-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Milene & Alexandra

Claire & Florence

Indira & Mauricio

Burak & Klaus

Zivile & Victoria

Shafeeka & Fernando

Fareed & Ali

Tom & Muhannad

Josh & Lesy

InterNations Pre-Christmas Party Members of InterNations organised a pre-Christmas gathering at Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant in Adliya. Kayhan, Ismail & Emre

Sharmila, Hany & Berna

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2015 87

dining SHOO FEE MA FEE

Luscious Lebanese The salads are freshly cut and feature flavourful dressings. In fact, we’d argue that the restaurant serves one of the best fattoush on the island. If you’re in mood for something less elaborate, try the manakeesh, Lebanese pizzas or wraps. The restaurant also has a selection of shawarmas to choose from. Groups should opt for Fukhara, the traditional Lebanese platter of individual oven-cooked vegetable, meat, egg and fish dishes. There are delicious homecooked options such as masaka bathenjan — an aubergine preparation served with a perky tomato sauce — and djaj feren, which is similar to chicken casserole topped with mashed potatoes. The restaurant wants customers to sit back and really enjoy their food — a point well made with the generous portions and the fact that once it arrives, the service staff don’t hover. You are expected to take your time as you savour the food and company. So whether you fancy a big meal or a light snack, Shoo Fee Ma Fee is a casual dining environment for all occasions. The restaurant doubles as a venue for small private parties and also provides home delivery and catering services across the Kingdom. You can follow Shoo Fee Ma Fee on Facebook and Instagram. With its calm and comfortable ambience, this Lebanese restaurant not only satiates your appetite, it encourages simulating conversations as well.

88 January 2015

Named after the Lebanese catchphrase for ‘what’s up’, Shoo Fee Ma Fee in Adliya is a culinary delight just waiting to be experienced. The moment you step inside the sprawling two-story venue, a mellow vibe greets you as you take in the décor. Bright colours of red, green and yellow adorn the furnishings and walls while large glass windows provide an abundance of natural light during the days. Tall ceilings, spread-out decks, balconies and a courtyard, offer a different dining experience with each visit. The eatery has its own version of an open kitchen — closed off but surrounded by windows – you can see your food being prepared without succumbing to overpowering smells. Although the restaurant maintains a casual environment, rest assured, it takes its food very seriously. The menu is varied and features a range of traditional regional favourites as well as contemporary recipes with an international twist. The list of hot and cold appetizers is long and aims to provide something for everbody. There are the usual palate pleasers like motabbel, tabouleh, baba ghannouj, vine leaves and foul along with soujok, makanek and assorted pastries. The true test of an Arabic kitchen is the quality of its hummus and bread — and even in a plethora of restaurants doing roaring business; really good quality hummus is hard to come by. Next time you crave some, head to Shoo Fee Ma Fee.

Call 17 311-280.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Come in. Sit down. Have a nice meal.

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

Shoo Fee Ma Fee Restaurant

shoofeemafeerestaurant

dining LANTERNS RESTAURANT

The Orient Express

The Kingdom’s iconic Indian restaurant, known for its supreme selection of subcontinental flavours, is taking diners on a new culinary journey at its latest venue in Juffair.

The Thai vegetable and basil spring rolls are a crispy mix of fresh juliennes served with lemon chilly sauce. Another great dish is prawn balls, served with wasabi mayo. The dim sums here show true ingenuity in terms of flavour and texture. Prawn hargow brilliantly combines the essence of the sea with freshwater chestnuts; presented in translucent bundles of wheat and potato starch. Those who want to start off on a spicy note can try bullet chilli chicken, made with bullet chilli and black beans. One of the star attractions in the main course section is Sichuan prawns, best enjoyed with Singapore hawker noodles. The vegetarians are also well catered to at Kylin; steamed morning glory with sautéed black mushrooms is highly recommended. The dessert menu may be small, but it contains enough options to give your meal a happy ending. The restaurant — located on American Alley — also has a delivery service and there is a special promotion offering a takeaway lunch meal for BD1. Call 17 666-517.

Lanterns Restaurant’s kebabs and curries are legendary and it’s hard to improve on perfection. So, why bother? Now the franchise is branching out with Chinese cuisine at Kylin Chinese Restaurant. Located on the first floor of its Juffair branch, the restaurant is a New Delhi-based brand, launched in Bahrain by Lanterns. The venue has the traditional Indian look on the ground floor and transforms into a chic dining space with oriental influences upstairs. Kylin’s menu boasts more than 90 dishes and this well-thought-out selection is courtesy of consultant chef Arun Tyagi. The variety of starters is just a preview of the restaurant’s culinary repertoire.

Visit us at:

90 January 2015

Juﬀair Adliya

Durrat

Riﬀa Budaiya

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAMBU

Chef Lee

Authentic Asian Simmering with powerful flavours of the Orient, this popular restaurant returns with gusto. Claiming to offer one of the most elegant Asian meals you’ll ever eat, Bambu reopened in Adliya after a short hiatus. Donning a fresh new look, the venue is creating quite a buzz among fans of Far Eastern cuisine.

The ambience incorporates traditional elements from the region in a modern and upscale setting. A calm space, Bambu is a dining haven where you won’t feel rushed while you savour the delicacies offered on the menu. The kitchen, in the capable hands of chef Lee, prepares some of the best Asian food you can find in the Kingdom. Filled with flavour and low on grease, the dishes are inspired by

Living Breathing Asia BD19.600 net Eat & Drink As much as you like EveryDay

her philosophy of eating clean. The food is not processed; everything is cooked from scratch at Bambu. The menu includes street food from China, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan. Preparations are spot on when it comes to taste and texture. The out-of-the-box recipes are packed with novelty for the gourmand in you. There are plenty of time-honoured comfort foods that suit the more traditional palate. The fish is fresh, meats are well-seasoned and the dim sums are like little bundles of joy. The restaurant has something for everyone and is a hit among local foodies. Dive into the salt and pepper prawns or black bean shrimp, and you won’t be disappointed. Bambu serves lunch and dinner and, now with the temperatures cooling down, you can take this delectable experience to their al fresco dining area. Call 17 262-555.

Ladies Night

Hotpot Night

Eat & Drink as much as you like! Only @ BD10

Unlimited Beverage Only @ BD10

Start @ BD2.800 per head

Every Wednesday

Every Monday

Every Saturday, Sunday, Monday

ADLIYA • KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN T +973 1726 2555 • www.bambubahrain.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2015 91

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MAKI

Evolving Flavours Known for its innovative interpretations of some of Japan’s most popular dishes, Maki rings in the new year with some tasty new additions. Maki, located in the heart of Manama, has dished up delicious culinary creations for more than a decade. Home to iconic dishes such as the Fusion Temaki, Maki Maki and Filo Prawn Tempura, this stylish restaurant and lounge

92 January 2015

has developed its own brand of Middle Eastern Japanese gastronomy. From namesake preparations to healthy bites such as the recently introduced gluten-free offerings, the restaurant never disappoints

when it comes to novelty and creativity. The new year sees a number of fresh arrivals on the menu. Try the Chaine Forest Haze Salad, which combines red quinoa, carrot, frisee, cress, shisogreen, white radish, coriander, rocket leaves, cherry tomatoes, avocado, truffles, white mushroom and red radish in Maki’s special extra virgin olive oil mixture, sushi vinegar and chef signature green Soba dressing. The Oliversan Giant Prawn is a fresh take on its famous giant black tiger prawn and is served with steamed rice and flavourful Japanese curry sauce. Another delectable dish is the Japanese Chicken Curry Fried Rice, which consists of wok-fried jasmine rice with chicken curry and freshly cut vegetables. A must try is the Smoked Creamy Lobster, served with Bok Choy leaves and Maki’s signature honey yuzu sauce. If you’re craving a mouth-watering meal while relaxing in plush settings, head to Maki at the World Trade Centre. The restaurant opens from noon until 11.30pm and is open until midnight on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Call 17 522-733, visit www.olivermaki.com or email maki.bahrain@olivermaki.com.

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RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

Good Times Guaranteed If savouring delicious fare in a fun and inviting atmosphere is your idea of a good time, this hotel could be right up your alley. Standing tall in the centre of Adliya is Ramada Bahrain, a friendly neighbourhood landmark that offers a variety of food and beverage outlets as well as great service. The four-star property welcomes locals and international travellers alike and is a great place to unwind with friends after a long day. This month sees the return of the hotel’s popular ‘Burger Lovers’ promotion. Indulge in culinary delights while watching your favourite games on large TV screens at The Exchange Restaurant & Pub. The food and beverages are accompanied by live performances from the resident duo, Sugar N Spice. The pair are on hand to energise your evenings with an eclectic mix of popular music from around the world.

Take advantage of the discounted rates on selected beverages during the happy hours every day. Le Jardin Restaurant – Ramada’s fine dining venue – is known for its inviting ambience and offers an extensive a la carte menu featuring tasty soups and salads, delectable entrées and desserts. Ramada not only welcomes individuals; it also

caters to corporate clientele and is available to host small conferences and seminars of up to 60 people. The hotel offers special packages that can include free use of Le Rendezvous restaurant. In addition, the hotel provides outdoor catering, so you can host a sensational event at a venue of your choice. Call 17 742-000.

Rasoi by Vineet Grand Opening The Michelin Star restaurant, Rasoi by Vineet, enjoyed a grand opening at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain. The event was attended by HE Dr Mohan Kumar, the Indian Ambassador to Bahrain and prominent Bahraini and foreign businessmen. Farook Almoayyed, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Mala Kumar inaugurate the restaurant

Waleed & Najib

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Kadem

Chef Vineet & Khalid Kanoo

January 2015 93

dining

An Effervescent Experience Indulge in free-flowing bubbly and devour scrumptious culinary creations with Fizz Fare – the sparkling brunch at Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre.

94 January 2015

Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre’s recently launched Fizz Fare brunch is every foodie’s dream come true. It offers a wide range of delicacies from classic dishes to modern interpretations, all created by the culinary magicians at Le Méridien. Drawing inspiration from the hotel’s Parisian culinary heritage, the international team of forwardthinking kitchen team is led by the new executive chef Ilango Muthiah and executive sous chef Cyril Jeannot. Together, they have come up with novel global gourmet ideas to awaken your Fridays. Chef Ilango is a keen traveller and has visited 94 countries. He incorporates his travel experiences in his menus, which results in a unique combination of flavours and textures. Chef Cyril is also a well experienced traveller and innovative recipe creator who enjoys mixing world tastes with traditional French fare. The dynamic duo, along with the rest of the culinary team, is on hand to ensure that guests are treated to an unforgettable brunch at Baharat. The carving station offers a sumptuous selection of seafood, grills and meats. Meanwhile, the world food stands dish up freshly-made pasta, tandoori dishes, just rolled sushi and more. Connect with the chefs at the live cooking stations as you watch your dishes transform from the freshest ingredients into a delicious meal. Discover freshlybaked breads and a cheese selection to rival those in France. There are also sinfully desirable desserts, cakes, patisserie and a chocolate fountain. Fuel your Fridays with the sparkle of Fizz Fare and

propel your weekends to another level. Share this exciting journey with your friends and family and stimulate your senses with flavours, scents, sights and the sounds of live music. The brunch takes place every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm and costs BD30. There is also a soft brunch for BD20. Call 17 171-000 Email restaurants.BCC@starwoodhotels.com or visit www.lemeridienbahraincitycentre.com.

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PAPA JOHN’S

Say Cheese! Papa John’s pizza fans in Bahrain can now say bonjour to one of the most popular options to have ever been featured on its menu; the new Cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu. Created by Barbara Hyman of Los Angeles, who won a cookery challenge for making this

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specialty pizza, Cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu now has a cult following around the world and is fast becoming a hit in the Kingdom as well. This rendition of the French classic dish has struck a chord with Papa John’s customers and is one of the fastest selling items across all outlets of the pizza chain in the Kingdom.

The Cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu features Papa’s original crust, spinach alfredo sauce which is topped with grilled chicken, turkey ham, onions and a mixture of six cheeses, namely mozzarella, parmesan, romano, provolone, Asiago and Fontina. For those wondering if the amount of cheese will overload their taste buds, the spinach alfredo sauce subtly restores balance to create a taste sensation. All-in-all, this pizza is becoming a firm favourite alongside other more established items on Papa John’s menu. The pepperoni rolls — small bite-sized pieces of bread filled with cheese and pepperoni — are the ideal side dish to order along with the pizza, the company says, especially when paired with the signature garlic butter dip. A leading pizza chain in the region, Papa John’s is not an organisation to rest on its laurels. The success of the brand is credited to the principles established by its founder, John Schnatter in 1984. From fresh vegetables to hand-tossed dough and quality tomato sauce, there’s no compromise on quality and the restaurant delivers on the ‘Better Ingredients, Better Pizza’ promise. Call 17 506-070.

January 2015 95

dininglistings 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

European 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 Peppers

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 17 717-808

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 Hyderabad House It’s Mirchi

17 296-660 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662 17 720-031 17 727-230

Engies Restaurant & Cafe Zoe

17 580-028 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 Rasoi By Vineet

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 17 713-000

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

Rice Bowl The Noodle House Wok

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 World Beat 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 17 612-576

Kalpaka Lanterns Mantra Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Shamiana Spices The Yellow Chilli

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 Upstairs Downstairs Wafi Gourmet

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 17 713-093

Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Persian Room Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill

17 524-579 17 369-269 17 811-511 17 580-600 16 010-166 17 746-431 17 555-989

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

17 131-111 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

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

Sea Chef Seafood Market Waves

17 292-911 17 533-336 17 531-122

Shawarma 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 17 292-950 Kosebasi 17 172-322 Turkish Mashawi Express 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

96 January 2015

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 17 826-222 Little Caesars 17 179-400 Margherita Pizza and Pasta 17 723-133 Metro Pizza 17 794-000 Papa John’s 17 581-516 Pick a Pizza 17 720-929 Pizza Express 16 010-524 Pizza Hut 17 711-113 Pizza Inn 17 811-666 Pizzabella 17 827-133 The Pizza Company 17 811-830

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

17 586-555

Seafood Asia Sea Food Far East Seafood Market Fish Market La Marine La Mer La Perle

17 224-466 17 727-230 17 701-201 17 595-775 17 636-411 17 298-008

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

bystander

Rick & Caoimhe

Ryan & Apple

Sharon & Benham

Nadia & Ryan

Samar & Ruby

Mo & Anna

Rick and Ryan’s: A Night to Remember Party at the Stark Mansion Bahrain and Zoe to celebrate Rick Costa’s Birthday and career transition of Ryan Ernst, the Tony Stark of Bahrain. Megan, Shaks, Casey & Don

Laura, Charlotte, Ryan & Caroline

Caoimhe, Kaye & Rodell

Shima & Hugh

Svetlana, Ryan & Hanadi

Kaye, Rick, Laura & Adina

Victoria

Vijay

Bumblefoot Meet-n-Greet at Virgin Megastore Fans met up with Ron ‘Bumblefoot’ Thal of American hard rock band, Guns N’Roses in Virgin Megastore on his inaugural visit to Bahrain. Mohammed, Mohammed, Mohammed & Adnan

Mo, Rick, Don, George & Katie

Hind & Mohammed Benita, Monali, Sandy & Genevieve

Abdulla, Ryan & Hamad

98 January 2015

Ahmed, Shima & Rashida

Avinash & Steffi

Robert & Daryl

Khalid, Abdul Rahman, Ala, Ahmed & Ahmed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AFTER DARK

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE ANKITA MAMGAIN

ALSO THIS MONTH: 100 HAPPENINGS 102 THEME NIGHTS

Gear up to hear All the Things She Said as Julia Volkova of t.A.t.U fame brings her wild vitality to the Kingdom in this debut performance.

Beat Elite

Julia Volkova

ne of the most sensational girl bands ever to hit the music scene, Julia Volkova and Lena Katina took the world by storm as t.A.t.U. The two teenage girls from Russia soon gathered a massive fan following around the world with their daring, often controversial but always powerful music videos and performances. Catch Julia Volkova in action at Ibrida on January 8. Since childhood, Julia knew she wanted to be a musician. Impressed by her natural talent, her parents encouraged her to take up piano and singing lessons. It was during her time at music school that she first met Lena. The two started out touring Russia and Eastern Europe extensively before securing themselves an international deal with US-based label, Interscope Records. Their debut www.bahrainthismonth.com

international single All the Things She Said, was a worldwide hit and sold more than two million copies. The band sold more than five million copies of their debut album, 200km/h In the Wrong Lane, making it the highest selling debut release from a Russian pop act in music history. After a string of successful albums, the two decided to go their separate ways in 2009. In late 2011, Julia released her debut single in Russia, called All Because Of You, which was her attempt to forge a successful solo career. “I’m not going to go from t.A.T.u. style to R&B — I like rock. My new music is going to be sexy and electric but I am proud of what we did in t.A.T.u. and it will always be a large part of my life,” she said. After the successful duet with Dima Bilan, Back to Her Future, in 2012 Julia’s explosive solo single

I Didn’t Wanna Do It, has become one of the most controversial in Russian show business. After a long hiatus Julia and Lena came together for a special performance at the Sochi Winter Olympics in July last year. Ibrida’s resident band, Beat Elite, is a group of high energy and musically diverse individuals that boast impressive dance routines and a large repertoire of songs. They are joined by DJ Paul Rees whose passion for house music made him a hit with diverse audiences around the world. Ibrida offers attractive packages for the ladies. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, there’s free flow of selected beverages from 9 pm till 1am, and on Thursdays- 7pm till midnight. You can also take advantage of Happy Hours on Thursdays from 7 pm to 10 pm. January 2015 99

afterdarkhappenings

Let’s Get the Party Started There’s never a dull day or night in Bahrain. The island’s party venues are ready to welcome the new year in style with a wide selection of events and promotions.

Dublin Club & Bar in Ramee Palace Hotel, celebrates its 6th birthday on January 23. Arrive dressed to impress as the venue celebrates the day in full Irish swagger with free flowing beverages and tantalising bar grub. Raise the roof with the new in-house band The Volume. The lively act performs a selection of pop, rock, indie, jazz and motown. There is also a three-course dinner including a beverage, for BD10. Brace yourself for the coolest gig in town as Overlook at The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa hosts the Ice Party on January 29. Put on your finest winter attire and join the fun. The resident band and DJ are on hand to help you keep warm with non-stop music as you indulge in a selection of food and beverages. The entry is BD20 for members and BD25 for non-members; prices include buffet and house beverages. The new sound Get your groove on with the resident band at Harvesters Pub & Terrace in Crowne Plaza Bahrain — The Groove Thing. The energetic band is ready to deliver enthralling performances night after night. Originally from the Philippines, the group’s performances include a mix of both current and classic pop as well as rock. They are joined on stage by dancers, ready to get the crowd moving with their lively routines. Because I’m Happy Join in for the longest Happy Hours on the island at Bizarre Lounge. It’s chilled-out atmosphere, chic interiors, 100 January 2015

When? January 8 Event? Julia Volkova Live! Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Watch the international singing sensation bring the house down. E Call 17 111-972. When? January 23 Event? 6th anniversary party Venue? Dublin Club & Bar, Ramee Palace Celebrate the club’s 6th birthday with free cake and bubbly. E Call 17 825-816. When? January 29 Event? Ice Party Venue? Overlook, The Ritz-Carlton This cool party raises the mercury level this winter. E Call 17 580-000.

relaxing lounge music and wide selection of food and beverages make it a great place to unwind. Sip on one of their signature beverages and enjoy another one free, from 11 am to 8 pm. Novotel al Dana Resort gives you a good reason to be happy as well. Take advantage of a 50 per cent discount on all beverages at Le Bellevue, from 6pm to 7pm and then from 9pm to 10pm.

When? Throughout January Event? Beverage promotion Venue? Bizarre Lounge, Le Meridien Enjoy the longest Happy Hours on the island; from 11 am to 8 pm. E Call 17 171-111. When? Throughout January Event? Beverage promotion Venue? Le Bellevue, Novotel Al Dana All beverages are half price from 6pm to 7pm and from 9pm to 10pm. E Call 17 298-008. www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdarkthemenights What? Monday Madnss Where? Buster's, Juffair Grand Dance to DJ Peekaboo's tunes and enjoy all cocktails for BD4. i Call 33 895-222.

tuesday What? Challenge the Bartender Where? Elements, InterContinental Regency Try five different shots created by the bartenders for BD10++. i Call 17 227-777.

sunday What? Cabin Crew Night Where? Txoko, The Domain Present your cabin crew ID and receive 50 per cent discount on beverages. i Call 16 000-222. What? FBI Night Where? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Bahrain For people in the hospitality industry, the menu is offered on half price. i Call 17 531-122. What? Quiz Night Where? JJ’s Irish Pub & Restaurant Take part in the famous JJ’s quiz and win prizes in each round. i Call 17 742-323. What? Becks Jam Nite Where? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Rock out on stage with the band and get a free Becks pint. i Call 17 826-001.

monday

What? Sunset Monday Where? Txoko, The Domain Have two drinks for the price of one from 5.30pm until 7.30pm. i Call 16 000-222. What? Wine Tasting Where? Elements, InterContinental Regency Take a guided wine tasting tour through three regions for BD10++. i Call 17 227-777. What? Nostalgic Night Where? The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Dance to the hits of 80s and 90s, and get 20 per cent off on drinks. i Call 39 381-631. What? Badaboom DJ Night Where? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Dance away to DJ Trixta's music. Free drinks for ladies.. i Call 17 826-001.

What? Jam Night Where? Downtown, InterContinental Regency Jam with the band when your favourite song comes up; receive a free drink i Call 17 227-777.

What? Microphone Madness Where? JJ’s Irish Pub & Restaurant This is one of the most popular theme nights; a free shot for every singer. i Call 17 742-323.

What? Nightingale Night Where? The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Sing your heart out and get a free shot and beer bucket for BD9.9. i Call 39 381-631.

What? Live-Oke Where? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Here’s your chance to sing with the band live on stage. i Call 39 046-715.

102 January 2015

What? Boys’ Night Out Where? The Warbler, Baisan International Enjoy a 20 per cent discount on bull frogs; get a bucket of beer for BD9.900. i Call 38 381-631. What? Cocktail Night Where? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Take advantage of the ‘buy one, get one free’ offer on selected cocktails. i Call 17 531-122.

wednesday What? Russian Night Where? Elements, InterContinental Regency Enjoy a wide selection of vodka; ladies get 50 per cent off on their order. i Call 17 227-777. What? Five DC Dollars Night Where? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Drop in with your girlfriends as ladies enjoy five free drinks. i Call 39 046-715. What? Pint and Jam Night Where? The Warbler, Baisan International Jam with the in-house band and enjoy four pints of beer at BD9.900. i Call 38 381-631. What? Vodka Night Where? Bedrock, ramee California Enjoy Smirnoff and Absolut vodka with mixers for BD2. i Call 33 731-000.

What? Sushi Wednesdays Where? Thai Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Enjoy unlimited house beverages with a wide selection of sushi. i Call 17 586-499.

thursday What? Cabin Crew Nights Where? Imari, The Domain Present your cabin crew ID and receive 50 per cent discount on beverages. i Call 16 000-333. What? Vodka Night Where? Downtown, InterContinental Regency Ladies receive three selected Vodka shots complimentary. i Call 17 227-777. What? Glow Party Where? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Dress in white and get covered inneon brightness at the party. i Call 33 731-000. What? Open Bar Night Where? Buster's, Juffair Grand 'Drink all you can' promotion for BD15; free drinks for ladies. i Call 33 895-222. What? Karaoke Night Where? Kicks, Hotel Diva Start the weekend with a spirited sing-along with friends. i Call 39 922-583.

friday

What? Pitcher Night Where? Buster's, Juffair Grand Have pitchers of your favourite cocktails for only BD10. i Call 33 895-222.

What? Ladies and Jammers’ Night Where? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Jam with the resident band while ladies enjoy two free drinks. i Call 17 531-122.

What? Four Pint Pitcher Night Where? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Quench your thirst with pitchers for BD6.500++. i Call 17 531-122.

What? BBQ Night Where? Elements, InterContinental Regency Enjoy an exhaustive range of barbecue delights with unlimited drinks for BD25. i Call 17 227-777.

What? Cabin Crew Nights Where? Txoko, The Domain Present your cabin crew ID and receive 50 per cent discount on beverages. i Call 16 000-222.

saturday What? Biru Garden Where? Imari, The Domain Enjoy a free-flow Kirin draught beer with Izakaya-style dishes for BD23++. i Call 16 000-333. What? Beer Promotion Where? Downtown, InterContinental Regency Get unlimited selected draught beer from 8pm until midnight for BD22++. i Call 17 227-777. What? Sports & Shots Where? The Warbler, Baisan International Buy one shot and get a bucket beer for BD9.900 with night-long karaoke. i Call 38 381-631. What? Shooter's Night Where? Buster's, Juffair Grand A night of great music with your favourite shooters. i Call 33 895-222. What? Cocktail Night Where? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Take advantage of the ‘buy one, get one free’ offer on selected cocktails. i Call 17 531-122.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Timeless Chic The Imperiale 36mm Jade is an exclusive new creation from the Imperiale collection, a Chopard classic, to celebrate Chinese New Year. It’s adorned with jade and the finesse of its detail makes this a must-have. Available at Chopard, Moda Mall.

Sunset Sensation Eternity Night by Calvin Klein is a scent that opens with enticing top notes of pink pepper, elderberries and a touch of succulent quetsche. The heart is a floral bouquet of frangipani mingled with wisteria, jasmine sambac, precious sandalwood, tonka bean and musk. Available at Jashanmals, Al Aali Mall.

Sparkling Precision Rochas Paris timepieces welcome a new addition to the Cascade diamond collection. The new model features a dialside rotor designed in stylised Rochas logo with diamond details. Available at Ala Mode, City Centre Bahrain.

Global Citizen TUMI’s Voyageur women’s collection caters to each aspect of a woman’s lifestyle. Partnering with USLU AIRLINES, the Berlin-based luxury cosmetics brand, TUMI has also created the ultimate Travel Makeup Kit. Available at Tanagra, City Centre Bahrain.

Brawn and Beauty The Alpina COMTESSE Lady Collection in stainless steel encases an AL-525 automatic mechanical movement with 26 jewels and a power reserve of 38 hours. It’s water-resistant and comes in two versions, with or without 48 diamonds on the bezel, with a choice of a grey leather strap or a stainless steel bracelet. Available at Ala Mode, City Centre Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2015 103

marketplace

ASIA JEWELLERS

Timeless Luxury This coveted timepiece is drawing more praise than ever after being chosen as the best classical watch of 2014 at the Middle East Watch of the Year Awards. An ode to the traditional artistry of the manufacturer, Récital 12 Monsieur DIMIER by BOVET 1822, is a musthave item for watch connoisseurs around the world. This precious timepiece is developed and manufactured entirely in-house by DIMIER 1738, Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie Artisanale SA. The calibre has the unique ability to evolve and adapt, to the type of information it is required to display. Through the use of reverse hand-fitting, the movement reveals its gear-train, oscillations of the balance and a transparent coaxial choreography, supporting the triple seconds-hand, a characteristic of the collection. In terms of chronometry, the technical office of the BOVET chose a more traditional escapement; it has a spring-balance assembly which offers flawless precision. The watch has a seven-day power-reserve system and a long-term chronometry equation, which guarantees great performance. Backed with two centuries of watch-making tradition, the Récital 12, Monsieur DIMIER is proud of innovations that further strengthen BOVET’s unrivalled position in the industry. 104 January 2015

BOVET is a Swiss Manufacturer of luxury timepieces, founded by Edouard Bovet who set up his first workshop in the picturesque Val-de-Travers region of Switzerland, back in 1822. The brand became famous for its pocket watches, manufactured for the Chinese market in the 19th century. Today, under the guidance of Pascal Raffy, a visionary with a passion for luxury watchmaking, BOVET is thriving and manufacturing unique timepieces that are instantly recognisable by their pocketwatch inspired design, its makers say. With a highly limited production annually, the manufacturer seeks to preserve and cultivate the art and craft of traditional watchmaking, while delighting connoisseurs and collectors with its creations. The Récital 12 Monsieur DIMIER by BOVET 1822 can be purchased at Asia Jewellers stores. Call 17 535-344. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ASIA JEWELLERS

Setting Sail with Her Luxury watchmaker Corum presents a new range of its signature Admiral’s Cup watches range with a softer touch for female wrists.

The design of Admiral’s Cup watches has always appealed equally to both sexes, but now Corum is introducing timepieces proportionately smaller and softened, just for female wrists. Ever since the Admiral’s Cup joined Corum’s collection in 1960, it has been one of the brand’s most recognisable watches. The original design consisted of a twelve-sided case, embellished with nautical pennants and became famous as the unmistakable signature of the La Chaux-de-Fonds-based brand. With the new range for women, Corum has adapted its trademark design with a more nuanced shape. This new line of feminine watches is neatly split into two ranges to match the needs and wants of the wearer’s personality. The brand offers four models that are housed in a 32 millimetre case. The impressive timepiece is the ideal accessory for both day and night and its petite proportions give it a sense of elegance. The Admiral’s Cup Legend Lady watches can easily be distinguished by the sparkle of semi-precious gemstones within either a stainless steel or red gold case. The matching strap completes the look of these exquisite pieces, its makers say. The dials include precious materials such as mother-of-pearl, semi-precious gemstones such as garnet and blue topaz, and even diamonds. Admiral’s Cup watches owe their immense popularity to their combination of decadent design and fashionable functionality. The sporty, seafaring watches’ original functions included indicating the tides and providing a regatta countdown. The unique dial features nautical signal flags, placed against the backdrop of a cream-coloured dial or on the bezel surrounding the dial. Flags are used in place of numerals on these timepieces, which are more often than not, printed in colour combinations of the international semaphore alphabet. The stylised flags function as a component of the International Code of Signals (ICS) on the dial of the Admiral’s Cup, each representing a number according to the ICS. This flagship range, originates from the founder René Bannwart’s fondness of sailing and regattas. The Corum Admiral’s Cup Legend Lady watches can be purchased at Asia Jewellers stores. Call 17 535-344. www.bahrainthismonth.com

January 2015 105

marketplace YATEEM CENTRE

In with the New Yateem Centre welcomes the new year with fervour by taking part in one of the Kingdom’s biggest shopping festivals — Bahrain Noor El Ain. With turkey and Christmas pudding being “Oh, so last year”, Yateem Centre looks forward to one of the biggest happenings in the country — Bahrain Noor El Ain Festival. The Yateem Centre has joined 21 other malls in the country taking part in this cultural and shopping festival, which aims to liven up January and February. Visitors who spend BD10 in any of the participating malls across the country also have a chance to win prizes in a mega-draw raffle.

Prizes include cars, tablets, phones, electronics and other luxury goodies, providing an incentive to open your wallets and purses. This retail and commercial centre was the first air-conditioned commercial complex in the country and has been in the souq at the heart of Manama for more than 25 years. Despite competition from the newer malls, the centre retains a loyal clientele and has grown from strength to strength over the years. It recently opened half a dozen new outlets, including boutiques, shoe shops, a supermarket, a watch and jewellery store, a sporting goods store and a men’s gym. So, it’s time to discover what’s new and check in on some old favourites. The basement car park in the centre of the souq provides easy access and two hours of free parking for shoppers as an added bonus. Call 17 215-615.

INTERCOL

More for Less A new affordable smartphone hits the market this month — the powerful Lumia 535 — which comes with the latest version of Windows Phone.

With various smartphones flooding the market, it can be a pricey affair to keep up with the latest technology, unless, of course, there is smartphone that is not only technologically advanced, but also affordable. The new Lumia 535, with the latest version of the Windows Phone OS, is just that and is available at Intercol, the authorised partner for Microsoft mobile devices in Bahrain. The sleek device offers three great integrated Microsoft experiences — a wideangle 5MP front facing and rear camera and a spacious 5-inch qHD display — for a respectable price of BD52. Microsoft Lumia 535 includes all the applications that people look for in a smartphone. You can make Skype video calls and switch between voice and video with built106 January 2015

in Skype integration. You can also access, edit and share Word, Excel and PowerPoint documents and OneNote notebooks wherever you are with the pre-installed Office suite. Users can save and sync photos, videos and Office documents securely with 15GB of free OneDrive cloud storage and connect with work and personal email on the go, with Microsoft Outlook. Showcase your photos and videos or get even more productive with Office on the large screen display. Now you never have to miss a call or text and can be reachable on two SIM cards at a time thanks to the Smart Dual SIM feature. The Lumia 535 is the latest addition to the Lumia family and is available at all Intercol and key retailer outlets in Bahrain. Call 17 727-177 or email nokia@intercol.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

DREAMBODY CENTRE

Get Your Dream Body

Before

Whether you’re trying to shed those extra kilos piled on after the holiday season, get back into shape or attain the body of your dreams, the DreamBody Centre is ready to come to the rescue!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

There comes a time when we all look in the mirror and wonder where it all went wrong and how we reached our current weight. Khalid Fathi, a 27-year-old media specialist and former high school athlete, decided enough was enough and did something about it. With the help of the DreamBody Centre, he lost 11kg — if he can do it, so can you. “Five or six years ago, I was actually an athlete,” says Khalid. “I’m not new to sports activities, I was a boxer and then I shifted to karate. However, while at university I stopped all my activities. “From time to time, I would weigh and measure myself and the last time I checked my BMI, I was actually ‘obese’ — that was my signal to pay attention.” The truth is, you know what you are doing wrong; you’re not getting enough exercise or eating well. You are not taking care of the most important thing — you. Khalid joined the 23-minute weight-loss centre and, with proper guidance on fitness and nutrition, a month later he had lost 11kg and 10.5-inches. However, besides the physical transformation, the programme provided other benefits. “Having a proper training and eating plan has given me a lot,” he says. “First, I feel more comfortable with myself. I feel more awake. I have the ability to do more. I’m feeling lighter and brighter. I was also sleeping better after only two weeks of joining.”

After Khalid says he now feels great about his body and others have noticed the transformation too. “I’m now trying on clothes other than XXXL. My fashion sense is changing because I have more choices now. Before I was stuck with certain items, shapes, colours, but now things are more colourful for me,” he says. The battle isn’t over and Khalid is still striving to reach his health goals. His advice to others is simple: “Be brave, make the decision, don’t wait and don’t hesitate. The 23-minute plan is very interesting; try it for one day and decide for yourself.” For a free trial and a free weight-loss assessment, call the DreamBody Centre. Call 17 582-982. January 2015 107

marketplace

JUNAID PERFUMES

The Scent of Pleasure This floral fragrance from Junaid Perfumes ensures that the perfect scent is in bloom no matter the season.

A certain scent can evoke a thousand memories and a feeling that lingers forever in our hearts and minds. Such is the power of an unforgettable perfume. Indulge your olfactory senses with the sweet aroma of Taariikh Rose, the latest addition to the Taariikh collection from Junaid Perfumes. Made for women who dare to be distinctive, this fragrance is specially created for the extroverted, romantic and natural woman. This delicate perfume is in perfect harmony with enchanting notes that open with the combination of fresh violet and tender jasmine. At the heart of the note, enjoy and embrace the woody accords of roses, while the oriental base note of sweet vanilla gives warmth to the composition. This sensuous fragrance comes in an attractive light peach coloured

108 January 2015

100ml bottle, decorated with an artistic stopper. The bottle itself is a piece of art, featuring incredible crafts on the neck and packed beautifully in an antique-like box. Junaid Perfumes is one of the oldest perfumers in the GCC and Taariikh Rose is now available at all Junaid perfumes outlets for BD14.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A spectacular new photographic book about the Kingdom of Bahrain by Andrew Weaver

“The ﬁrst aerial photography book about Bahrain ever to be produced, containing over 250 amazing images shot almost entirely from helicopters”. In all leading bookstores now. For further information and corporate sales contact: (+973) 39445102 or email: weaverphoto@yahoo.com Available in 3 sizes.

marketplace KOOHEJI JEWELLERY

A Slice of Nature

Taking design cues from the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest architect, Mother Nature, this jewellery designer presents collections that boasts originality and universal appeal.

110 January 2015

From flower petals to delicate water droplets, the new collection by artist and jewellery designer, Annamaria Cammilli, aims to capture the very essence of beauty. Her artistic background ensures that the collections incorporate a clear connection with pictorial and artistic elements. Cammilli presents these pieces under four different themes. The Essential range draws inspiration from the Earth, and is an extension of the famous Dune line, based on desert dunes. Designs cater to women searching for jewellery that can be worn at all times of the day. The pieces stand out due to their remarkable movements and simplistic elegance. The Vision collection aims to reflect the versatility and liveliness of water. It is the newest of the four lines, and perhaps the most striking. The shapes of this collection, seemingly abstract at first, represent delightful versions of drops, waves and ripples in the ocean; all resulting in wonderful ornamental pieces. Exquisite materials and quality gemstones bring to life the floral patterns of the pieces, based upon flowers and leaves. It was this theme that made Cammilli famous more than 30 years ago, when her first collection, inspired by delicate petals, was launched. Thanks to impeccable craftsmanship, the pieces capture intricate details of the movement in the wind and illumination by the sun through precious stones, its makers say. One of the new collections under this concept is Begonia. It bears complex sculptural characteristics and is presented using two brilliant shades of gold. With this, Cammilli takes you by surprise with her use of depth and finish.

The collection, which incorporates coloured gemstones, is inspired by the myriad hues of the sky. This range used rare shades of semi-precious stones garnished with rhinestones and the creatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original gold colour. The creations by Annamaria Cammilli are available at Koheeji Jewellery. Call 17 530-411. www.bahrainthismonth.com

JOZ SALON & SPA

Polished Performance

Sometimes cleansing and moisturising just isn’t enough. Add a luxurious exfoliating body scrub to your regular skincare routine to buff away old skin and stimulate microcirculation.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

It makes absolute sense that all spa treatments should start with a body scrub. From a business perspective, body scrubs cost very little and can be used as a precursor to most other spa treatments as well as a stand-alone spa ritual. Joz Salon & Spa describes body scrubs as a “vital part of any spa menu”. From a client’s perspective, the popularity of body scrub treatments lies in several factors, including the resurgence of interest in the tradition of hammam treatments in this region and the general awareness that the public now has about the benefits of exfoliating both the face and the body. In particular, body exfoliation is becoming an essential part of grooming habits. “Our therapists follow the rituals involving body scrubs that are increasingly popular in this region where the climate tends to be harsh, dry and artificial, with heavy use of air conditioning,” says a salon spokesperson. “For the best results, body scrubs or exfoliation treatments require a combination of different factors. These include selecting the right product for the client and their skin types, to using the correct exfoliation and massage technique. “Meanwhile, offering several types of products for the scrubs will ensure that we can offer the treatments to all our clients, including those with sensitive skin.”

Joz Salon & Spa uses salt in some of its body polish treatments and freshly mixes its exfoliators to ensure they meet the needs of each client. The salon recommends the use of a salt base polish for people with very dry skin. To indulge in a sensational spa experience, visit Joz Salon & Spa at The Dragon Hotel & Resort (first floor), Amwaj Islands. Call 16 031-120.

January 2015 111

marketplace

BAHRAIN EXHIBITION & CONVENTION AUTHORITY

Expo Opens to Public The seventh annual Food & Hospitality Expo is the Kingdom’s largest gathering of food, beverage and hospitality industry professionals and it is already gaining momentum for its opening in April.

112 January 2015

Dedicated to the food, beverage and packing technology industries, the expo will bring together an international audience of buyers, retailers, distributors, food and beverage professionals as well as the media. The event, organised by Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Authority (BECA), will be held from April 28 to 30 and aims to provide participants with the opportunity to network and forge potential business relationships. The expo has launched new products as well as provided enhancements for existing products since its debut in January 2009. Now in its seventh year, the event will feature live cooking stands, local chefs and a wide range of activities that proved successful in previous years. This event, aimed at the GCC region and its strong demand for new products, will also offer visitors an insight into food and beverage trends of the future. A number of Bahrain’s industry leaders will also be represented at the event. Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Authority will offer free admission during this three-day show, which will feature tasty treats, various activities and a welcoming atmosphere.

The event has the support of Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which has grown tremendously over the years, launching many companies in the aforementioned fields. Call 17 558-898 or 17 558-814 or email amal@beca. bh or eman@beca.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

K HOME & KITCHEN

Ambitious Hopes for 2015

K Home & Kitchen, the Kingdom’s leading distributor of hotel and restaurant supplies and equipment, believes the best is yet to come for Bahrain. The company believes that 2015 will see business improve thanks to the government’s continuing efforts to bring major events to Bahrain and its role in showcasing the Kingdom’s great tourist destinations.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

“We thank our suppliers who stood by us and most especially our loyal clients who have been supporting us for decades,” a company spokesperson says. “Bahrain’s improving economy and position as a financial hub in the region gives it the potential to invigorate the hotel and tourism sector. “Bahrain’s prospects for the future are good and K Home & Kitchen sees room for growth as

it continues to benefit from the increasing number of travelers, new brands launched and luxury hotels opening. “We have a very positive outlook for the hotel and tourism sector and we expect to see sustained growth and continued economic performance in 2015.”

January 2015 113

marketplace

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

New Clinic Opens Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH) is set to begin 2015 on a high note following the opening of a new clinic at the end of 2014.

114 January 2015

The hospital opened its first clinic in the West Riffa area and was also reaccredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a global pioneer in the field of improving health care quality. BSH also received recognition from two international scientific organisations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the European Society for Hypertension and the American Laparoscopy Association (AAGL). The European Society for Hypertension (ESH) qualifies BSH as a Hypertension Excellence Centre and the American Laparoscopy Association (AAGL) designated the Gynecology department at BSH as a Centre of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecology. The Bahrain Specialist Hospital clinic has been set up as a specialised medical centre, to meet the primary and special needs of patients and to provide comprehensive medical services. The centre has a number of specialist doctors and a qualified crew of highly experienced nurses. The clinic contains different departments including

Internal Medicine, GP, Cardiology, Orthopedic, ENT, Plastic Surgery, Pediatric, Dental, General Surgery, Dermatology, Obs.& Gyn., Physiotherapy and a pharmacy. The clinicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Radiology and Laboratory Department has the latest medical diagnostic equipment, enabling it to provide health care to the residents of Riffa and nearby areas. The new clinic is located at Riffa Avenue in West Riffa. Bahrain Specialist Hospital is committed to providing healthcare of the highest standards; upholding and respecting the rights, beliefs, safety and need for confidentiality of the patients, staff and visitors. The hospital aims to work to the highest standards of healthcare by expanding the scope of its services in Bahrain and the region. It also aims to be the primary centre for medical tourism in the area. Visit www.bsh.com.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAHRAIN DEVELOPMENT BANK

Promoting Investments Since its inception in 1992, Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) Group has been one of the Kingdom’s champions of small and medium enterprises and is an on-going promoter of entrepreneurship in Bahrain. Entrepreneurs are national assets who need to be motivated, nurtured and utilised to their fullest potential. In addition to creating revenue from their business ventures, entrepreneurs create jobs and help contribute to a prosperous economy. Whether your plan is to launch a new entrepreneurial venture, expand or diversify business in the Kingdom, BDB aims to provide you with essential advice and support to develop the financial resources for your project. With the bank’s core mission to develop small and medium enterprises (SMEs), it offers a wide range of distinctive financial and advisory services specifically designed to meet SMEs’ needs. The government has entrusted the bank with promoting investments in Bahrain, with the aim of diversifying the economic base, creating new employment opportunities for Bahrainis and contributing significantly to the overall socio-economic development of the Kingdom. Over the years, BDB has expanded to deliver an innovative mix of financial products tailored to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and

www.bahrainthismonth.com

extended to reach out to a broader spectrum of economical sectors, including manufacturing, tourism, health, education, fisheries, agriculture, business professional sectors and other value-added services and activities. Through its advisory department, the bank also provides specialised consultancy services for business development. Additionally, it supports small and new enterprises, which includes the Bahrain Business Incubator Centre, Riyadat Centre and RUKN (ICT Incubator). Bahrain Development Bank’s mission is to promote entrepreneurship, innovation and develop the SMEs in Bahrain, the company says. It also aims to assist in the self-employment of Bahrainis through best-quality financial and advisory services, in alignment with the economic vision of the Kingdom. Visit www.bdb-bh.com.

January 2015 115

bystander

Sergey & HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador to Bahrain

Closing Ceremony of the 12th Kingdom Match Race Regatta

Vera Smirnov & Vera

Mohammed

The closing ceremony of the 12th Kingdom Match Race Regatta was held at the Bahrain Maritime Sports Association Club in Al Jazayer Beach, under the sponsorship of Omega Bahrain Jewellery Centre and Behbehani Brothers. Mante, Poirey & Marianne

Ameena

Ahmed, HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador & Shaikh Khalifa bin Abdulla Al Khalifa

Marianne received her award from Abul Kasim Shirazi & Shaikh Khalifa bin Abdulla Al Khalifa

Katherine

Bjarne, Martin & Till

Jaffer & Captain Khalid

Pia & Bill

Valerie & Becky

Jay & Nicki

Phil & Valerie

Amanda & Neil

JP & Ned

Jameel & Ahmed

Effat & Michel

White Club Party The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa organised White Club Party at its Overlook patio. Kathleen & Elaine

Eddy & Micheline

116 January 2015

Dr Bahman

Mansoor

www.bahrainthismonth.com

winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

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To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.

2 3

What is the gift wrapping company PAPERMOON known as in Bahrain? ___________________________ Who has directed the new production of Cat in the Hat? ___________________________ What is the name of the Bahrain pavilion at Expo Milano 2015? ___________________________

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 73 entries last month, 59 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: Winner : Ronald Yabres Second Place : Rajiv Kalsi Third Place : Andrea Hernandez

A New Year, A New Body 1.

Last month’s solutions 1. HE Kiyoshi Asako

How much space will the Autumn Fair 2015 cover at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre? ___________________________

2. Mirinda Carfrae/Sebastian Kienle/Rachel Joyce/ Caroline Steffen/Jan Frodeno 3. St Christopher’s Senior School production of ‘Grease’ 4. Afnan Al Zayani 5. Camille Zakharia 6. Bumblefoot 7. Katherine Jenkins

5 6

What year anniversary is IDdesign celebrating? ___________________________ When does the seventh Food and Hospitality Expo begin? ___________________________

8. KIA 9. Ian Smith, Rory O’ Hanlon and Stephen Carlin 10. Fizz Fare

Ad Seek 1. Churchill/K Home & Kitchen 2. Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt 3. Engie’s Restaurant & Café 4. Jawad Supermarket

What is Camelot Restaurant and Lounge’s new theme night called? ___________________________

What model of car did DJ Outlaw and George Middleton use for Backseat Chat? ___________________________

Name:

Address:

9 10

What promotion does Maki restaurant has on January 13? ___________________________ What litre engine does JAC J5 have? ___________________________

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Telephone:

In fact, we’ll guarantee that you’ll lose these inches, or we’ll give you your money back. You’ll achieve the guaranteed results by training on our unique 23-minute, easy-to-use hydraulic circuit.

But we won’t stop there. We’ll also give you a weig guide, delicious recipes, and keep you motivated an Losing weight and getting in shape has never been and fun!

Make 2015 the year you finally get the body you’v wanted! Call us now on 17582 982 to book your F and assessment. We look forward to seeing you! Suhail G. Algosaibi Founder, DreamBody Centre

s BFreoe nUprugorga

Email:

CPR:

Saturday to Thursday 7:00 am to 10:00 pm Fridays 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

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

www.DreamBodyCentre.com

4. January 2015 117

P Goldtinum Pla t 20 p ﬁrs t join tha

tarotscope

CAPRICORN Dec 22 – Jan 21

You are such a stubborn animal that sometimes you dig your heels in just for the sake of making a point. This month you will find yourself at loggerheads with a partner or spouse over comments made by a relative who is openly challenging your relationship or marriage. However, your refusal to accept the fact is making for unnecessary friction. You need to admit that no one is perfect – least of all you – and if someone close to you is causing problems then it is your place to do something about it. Burying your head in the sand is not something those around you will appreciate and you will be thought of in a much better light if you just take the initiative. Card of the Month —The Ace of Swords For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

AQUARIUS January 21 – February 20

The new year will open with a number of dilemmas for your sign. At the core of your problem is what you do about a career. Your current role just doesn’t seem to inspire you any more and yet you can’t quite identify a clear alternative. What you need to do is take a little time out to explore all your options. There may be a whole slate of contacts and opportunities that you haven’t even considered yet. Hence some time away from your familiar environment could be just what you need to get you thinking straight again and focused towards where you want to go next. Card of the Month — The Seven of Cups

PISCES February 21 – March 20

You are on the first leg of a new and exciting period of your life, with a whole host of opportunities opening up before you and the chance to really make your mark. The only question is whether you can find the courage to do it. Ever cautious you can sometimes hold back when you should throw yourself in, so on this occasion just dive straight in. You might not always be in control but the ride will be a wild one and you may even learn a thing or two about yourself in the process. On a different note, a recent high-end purchase could be causing you problems and you may have to fight for a solution with a retailer before you get things sorted. Card of the Month — The Ten of Wands 118 January 2015

ARIES March 21 – April 20

Whilst you are never far from the social hub of your personal world, what you are craving right now is just a little peace and relaxation. With that in mind, things might not turn out how you would like them to at the start of the year as some foolish words from a partner cause you both to fall out quite dramatically. Of course, as a hothead you’ll soon calm down and look to put things right but that might be a case of easier said than done. On the financial front, you may have some serious decisions to make over a property so think things through, as there is a lot to gain from planning sensibly. Card of the Month — The Wheel of Fortune

TAURUS April 21 – May 20 Many of you will be feeling in a somewhat reflective mood throughout January as you come to terms with a whole host of issues that have been welling up within you over the last few months. You’ve a lot to be proud of but you’re still haunted by a sense of dissatisfaction that is preventing you from really enjoying your recent success. New years often initiate reflection but you won’t be able to properly move on into the next exciting and even more rewarding stage of your life unless you address the problems within. If you have been waiting on news of an investment maturing or a financial return of some kind you will hear a positive response by the 19th. Card of the Month — Ace of Wands GEMINI May 21 – June 20 Things are looking up for you on the work front as you move towards a major career change and the possibility of travelling overseas in the pursuit of new business. In fact, the start of the year is set to be an exciting adventure for many of you and whilst the financial rewards might not be as great as you would like, the experiences you encounter along the way will change you as a person. On a different note, a young person may come to you with a rather unusual request and you may need to take some advice before committing one way or another. Be very careful how you respond because the situation is more delicate than you might imagine. Card of the Month — Ace of Pentacles CANCER June 21 – July 20

This month many of you will be coming to terms with a health issue, which you have done your best to ignore for fear of hearing something you might not like. Your sign is not one to slow down or take stock of situations; you are passionate and driven and don’t often embrace weaknesses – whether they are your own or those of others. However, on this occasion you may have to introduce some major changes to your lifestyle if you want to ensure you don’t suffer any permanent damage. The good news is that getting it dealt with early should prevent anything serious developing. Just don’t be your own worst enemy on this one. A windfall could come your way on the 28th so keep an eye out. Card of the Month — Six of Swords

LEO July 21 – August 21

Many of you will arrive at a major crossroads in your lives and there will be some important decisions to be made in January that decide how the year pans out. There is a definite sense of dissatisfaction lingering over you and that could have a lot to do with a relationship that isn’t quite clicking as it used to or even a sudden lack of purpose and direction in your life that is making you feel confused about where you fit in the world. Don’t panic: this happens to us all at some stage or other. It’s what you do about it that really counts so make sure you are honest in your appraisal of where you are and the answer will come. Card of the Month — The Fool www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index VIRGO August 22 – September 21

Just recently many of you have taken your first steps into a new arena and you may still be feeling a little unsettled as you struggle to find your feet. You’re a sign that thinks quickly in a difficult situation but at the same time you don’t react well to being cornered or forced into a tight spot. Accordingly, you might find it necessary to impose your will if you’re going to make it through unscathed. The ridiculous thing is that if you act like yourself, you can solve any problems that come your way. It’s only an unusual lack of confidence that seems to be making you doubt your own abilities. It will work out in the end and there is much for you to look forward to. It will just take a little longer than usual. Card of the Month — The Ten of Swords

LIBRA September 22 – October 21

It’s been an interesting few months for many of you – especially where property is concerned. You have been embroiled in a long-running dispute with a neighbour that is about to be concluded this January. Whilst you have been trying to keep up a brave front, internally you feared the worst, which will mean that when the news finally reaches you, it could come as a pleasant surprise as well as a relief. All in all, things might not be as bad as you had anticipated. If you get an invite to a family gathering this month, be careful of who you decide to take with you, especially those of you in the early stages of a relationship. It could turn out quite embarrassing otherwise! Card of the Month — The Queen of Swords

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21

If you are true to yourselves you’ll know that right now there is a lot going on in your lives that you really aren’t happy with. Work is causing you many concerns and if you could just clear your head for a moment and get things in order there, you might find it begins to have a positive impact on other parts of your life. Relationship-wise many of you could be feeling a little lonely at the moment. A recent break-up or the lack of any real significant other could be sapping at your confidence slightly and you might need to push yourself back into the dating game before you retreat from it completely. Try not to let it get you down though. The new year has a lot of good in store for you. Card of the Month — The Pope

SAGITTARIUS October 22 – November 21

This month you are going to have to swallow your pride and return to a work colleague with your tail firmly between your legs as you hold your hands up in apology for some recent bad behaviour. You love to be the centre of attention and, as a fire sign, you are always full of energy, bounding from once place to another without sometimes really taking stock of other people’s feelings. You know you’ve upset someone with your off-the-cuff comments and the only way to solve matters is to make it up to them. Also, you shouldn’t forget that you need them more than they need you, so you don’t want to cut off your nose to spite your face. Card of the Month — The Four of Wands

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Marilyn Manson

Mel Gibson

Kate Middleton

FAMOUS CAPRICORN THIS MONTH

Fashion & Footwear

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 21

Madre & Padre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

e-Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Cat in the Hat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Financial Institutions

Falak Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . . 39

Tamkeen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Intercol:IAA (Microsoft) . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Home & Furnishing

Intercol:IAA (Pittas) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

ID Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy

Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Hotels & Serviced Residences

Kumar’s Group:K Home & Kitchen . 113

Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Novotel Al Dana Resort . . . . . . . . . . 115

Marafie Skin & Laser Clinic . . . . . . . . 45

Ramada Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Ramee Group of Hotels (Ramee Grand) . 27 Starwood Hotels (Le Meridien) . . . . . . 9

Jewellery & Watches Asia Jewellers (Frederique Constant) 6 Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . 2 Kooheji Jewellery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Sharif Group (Pierre Cardin) . . . . . . . 13

Motoring Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . 69 Behbehani Brothers Co. (Porsche) . . . . . 33 Ebrahim K. Kanoo (Lexus) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Syed Junaid Alam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 The British School of Bahrain . . . . . . 57 Bahrain Schools Expo 2015 . . . . . . . . 72 Creative Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Yateem Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Restaurants & Cafés NUASIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 T.G.I.Friday’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 BamBu! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Papa John’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Ebrahim K. Kanoo:Motor City (Subaru) . 60

Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Ahmed Zayani & Sons (Dodge) . . . . . . . . 63

Shoo Fee Ma Fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant . . . . . 90

Others Bahrain Exhibition & Convention

Telecommunications

Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Viva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

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

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, Saar ● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop ● BooksPlus, all outlets ● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Park Supermarket, Mahooz ● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai ● Other leading Cold Stores and

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

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from National Photo Services, Gudaibiya 17 742-955. January 2015 119

lastword

Defining Irony JAMES CLAIRE Irony; the expression of one’s meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite.

120 January 2015

The biggest irony of our times must truly be, being taught the most serious of truths by the funniest comedian in the world. Sadly, in the nearly 80 years since, we still aren’t listening. In 1940, the world’s silent era phenomena, Charlie Chaplin created a talking movie, ‘The Great Dictator’. In the movie, the final speech by star of the film, had relevance at the time, but even more today. It took a man of comedy, to write a speech that serves as a sad reminder that we never seem to learn from history, pain or our own mistakes. “We all want to help one another. Human beings are like that. We want to live by each other’s happiness, not by each other’s misery. We don’t want to hate and despise one another,” Chaplin says. “In this world there is room for everyone. And the good earth is rich and can provide for everyone. The way of life can be free and beautiful, but we have lost the way.” In 1940 he may have thought that there was room for everyone, but in 1940 the world population stood at just 2.3 billion, today we have tripled that number and crowd every space available as we fast approach a population of eight billion. “Greed has poisoned men’s souls; has barricaded the world with hate; has goose-stepped us into misery and bloodshed,” Chaplin explains. “We have developed speed, but we have shut ourselves in. Machinery that gives abundance has left us in want. Our knowledge has made us cynical; our cleverness, hard and unkind. Could Chaplin have been more like Nostradamus in his words? Greed has stained the past decade like few before it, except perhaps the 80s and 90s, and we have the Internet, yet we hibernate indoors behind screens and laptops and have friends online but never actually meet them. “We think too much and feel too little. More than machinery, we need humanity. More than cleverness, we need kindness and gentleness. Without these

qualities, life will be violent and all will be lost,” Chaplin continues. “The airplane and the radio have brought us closer together. The very nature of these inventions cries out for the goodness in man; cries out for universal brotherhood; for the unity of us all.” We are indeed closer today than we have ever been geographically. We travel further, more often and with greater freedom, yet we do little to stop the misery of others in distant lands as civil wars rage, coups go unabated and we tolerate militia and guerillas who take lands that are not theirs at the cost of human life. Where is our goodness, where is our unity when we go about our lives as this occurs on another part of the same planet? Perhaps it is life’s irony that it took a funny man so long ago to so correctly foresee the world in which we would live today. While he was funny, his words are not. Science and progress once seen as bringing about the happiness of man, sadly has not. Complicated it? Yes it has, but where lay the happiness for billions of us who starve, live in fear, live in destitution and in need as others of us stuff our pockets with greed? Typical of our own stupidity, we forget yesterday and forge quicker forward to a so-called brighter tomorrow. We wash away the past that we do not want to remember and move forward blindly hoping tomorrow will be better. We have people looking to the stars, scientists trying to figure out if there are aliens on distant worlds, but perhaps we should assign scientists to look backward also into our written history for the truth and way forward. Perhaps the occasional slap in the face with a old manuscript is what we need to see that as much as we think we have changed, we have not. Jessamyn West captured the thought more clearly when she stated, “A taste for irony has kept more hearts from breaking than a sense of humor, for it takes irony to appreciate the joke which is on oneself.” www.bahrainthismonth.com