FINE DINING | NEW MOTORS | ROTARY ANNIVERSARY
YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Flying High
The Airshow Returns A Special Relationship 200 Years of Bahraini-British Friendship
Travel Short Break Destinations
Naval Perspective
January 2016 ~ Vol. 20 ~ Issue 1
Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan on His New Role Arts
Culture
Clubs
Sports
Interviews
Lifestyle
Dining
Nightlife
Desirable Perl茅e Collection Bracelets, yellow gold, white gold and diamonds.
Haute Joaillerie, place Vend么me since 1906
Issue 221
Contents January 2016 HAPPENINGS
Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of January 2016. 20 The
Nest:
Block 338’s annual street market and art event returns to Adliya. 22
To Be or Not To Be:
Shakespeare’s Hamlet at the Cultural Hall.
26
24
Musical Extravaganza:
Japanese musician Missa Johnouchi takes to the stage. 26
Flying High:
Bahrain International Airshow is back with fun for all the family. 28 Thought
Provoking Art:
Gilgamesh-inspired installations at La Fontaine. 30
Strut Your Mut:
It’s time for the BSPCA’s annual dog walk.
After Dark Happenings: 32
32
Straits Up:
Money For Nothing at Sherlock Holmes.
34
INTERVIEWS 34
Soaring to New Heights:
36
New Man on the Bridge:
Ahmed Alnemah, Acting Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs on the organisation of the airshow. Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan explains his role at the head of US Naval operations in the Gulf.
36
38
38
Targeting Agreements and Investment:
Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali highlights his country’s growing economy.
39
Striving for Perfection:
Hyundai vice president Jin (James) Kim debuts the brand’s new compact SUV.
46
55
40
Explosively Successful:
41
The Club With a Cause:
Young inventor Tasneem Yousif introduces the robot that’s won an international prize. Renuka Ravindran on a half century of Rotary in the Kingdom.
Bystander This month our photographers have been busy at national days for Lebanon, Thailand and Korea. The Japanese Embassy celebrated its Emperor’s birthday and the Caledonian Society marked St Andrew’s Day. We also turned out for the launch of one of the Kingdom’s biggest expos, Jewellery Arabia, as well as several new car showroom launches. www.bahrainthismonth.com
FEATURES 46-53
Travel:
A short sojourn in the Seychelles reveals heaven really is a place on Earth and a weekend break in Oman leaves our reporter wanting more. 55-61
A Special Relationship:
A look at the ties between Britain and Bahrain as the two countries prepare to celebrate 200 years of friendship. January 2016 5
Moda Mall: 17534444 Al-Aali Mall: 17581444 Seef Mall: 17587888 Ritz- Carlton Hotel: 17580123 City Centre: 17179009 www.asiajewellers.com
Issue 221
Contents January 2016 LIFESTYLE New Motors:
Start Your Engines:
63
A round-up of what’s new on the motoring scene for 2016. 64
63
Revamped for Success:
The upgraded Toyota Land Cruiser.
Setting a New Standard:
66
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 70
High on Style:
The latest clothing from MINI. 71
Motoring Bites:
A round-up of the latest models and motoring news.
Downtime:
Gadgets: The Newest gizmos on the market. 76 Music: Top Tunes. 77 Computer Games: The hot games of the month. 78 Websites: The coolest sites on the web. 79 Apps: Sophisticated new apps. 80 Movies: Creed 74
66
77
Dining:
81
Top of the World:
Ankita Mamgain is left speechless by Wolfgang Puck’s Re Asian Cuisine. 82
Fresh Italian Flavours:
The revamped menu at Adliya favourite Oliveto. 84
The Zesty Zone:
Lumee Street Café celebrates its first year with the launch of a delivery service.
A Turkish Escapade:
87
The Turkish Festival continues at Mercure Grand Hotel’s Neyran restaurant. 90
Irresistibly Italian:
A new outlook and new dishes at Romano’s Macaroni Grill. 94
Dining Happenings:
News and offers on the island’s dining scene.
81
95
Fine Dining:
95
Fine Fare Without the Fuss:
A look at how the nation’s fine-dining outlets are keeping it real. 96
A Delicious Journey:
A duo of food festivals at The Domain Hotel and Spa’s world-class eateries. 99
Veggie Good:
Maki ups the ante with yet more healthful vegetarian offerings. 103
The Real Taste of Japan:
Chef Umekawa on his first year at Kei.
74
Showcase:
80
What’s New: Must-have products 105-120 Marketplace: Latest products and services 121 Business Bites: News from the world of business. 104
Regulars:
90
www.bahrainthismonth.com
104
123 WIN WIN 126 Tarotscope 127 AD Index 128 Last Word
January 2016 7
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THE TEAM
Bahrain This Month January 2016
Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Marketing & Electronic Media Director Deepa Siva Editor Charlie Holding
Welcome to 2016 everyone, as we wish you and all our other readers a very Happy, Prosperous and Successful New Year. There’s lots going on and, as always, we’re pleased to provide you with all the details. This January, we at BTM are delighted to announce the launch of our new state of the art web app at www.bahrainthismonth.com; a much more intuitive and interactive web portal providing our readers with a digital extension to the magazine’s print and online experience. Every page in BTM Online is now ‘shareable’ through Instagram, Twitter and Facebook including Bystander’s images and videos. There’s no need to fret anymore about your social pictures not appearing in the magazine, since each and every image taken at our events will be accessible to the world through this new web app. The Bahrain International Airshow returns for its fourth edition and you’ll find lots of information on this in our happenings pages. Block 338 hosts its annual outdoor market and art event, a great place to look out for local artisan creations while enjoying street food and live music. There is also much to look forward to at Bahrain International Circuit. The wider art scene too is vibrant this month with films, music, exhibitions and a double dose of Shakespeare with both Hamlet and Romeo & Juliet on stage at the Cultural Hall. Our interview section includes an eclectic mix of movers and shakers. Ahmed Alnemah, Acting Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs, talks about the work involved in organising the airshow and Vice Adm Kevin Donegan explains the US Navy’s role in keeping the region’s waters secure. We also caught up with the Bangladeshi Foreign Minister on his brief visit to the Kingdom, chatted to young Bahrain-based inventor Tasneem Yousif and learned about the history of Rotary in the Kingdom as the Manama club celebrates its 50th anniversary. This month, also sees the start of another important anniversary — 200 years of the very special relationship between Britain and Bahrain. In the first of a series of articles, we’ve taken a look back at the historic relationship that has resulted in today’s strong bond between the two nations. By coincidence 2016 is also the 100th anniversary of our family presence in the Middle East since my grandfather, George Frederick Middleton, who was born in Tottenham in 1884 (Go Spurs!), came out to Egypt with the British Expeditionary Force during the First World War. Like the British Embassy, our whole family will be celebrating this anniversary — although probably only half as much! However you choose to celebrate 2016, we sincerely hope that, as always, Bahrain This Month will continue to be “your guide to a great way of life”.
Commercial Editor Apple Sharma Assistant Editor Ankita Mamgain Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel Photography Editor Zilia Monteiro Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan
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•
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COVER Cover Picture:
The Bahrain International Airshow.
YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Flying High
The Airshow Returns A Special Relationship
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January 2016 ~ Vol. 20 ~ Issue 1
Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan on His New Role Arts
www.bahrainthismonth.com
George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman
FINE DINING | NEW MOTORS | ROTARY ANNIVERSARY
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Nightlife
January 2016 9
bystander
HE Alberto Vecchi, Luca Buccelati & Patrick Norman
Jewellery Arabia Opens Jewellery Arabia 2015 was officially inaugurated by His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, The Prime Minister, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre. Opening the event
HRH the Prime Minister visited Kooheji Jewellery
Jassim & Manar
Muhanna, Khalifa Al Rumaihi, Adel Al Khayer, Salim
Khalid, Lama, Mohammed-Jaffar, Melvin, Saly & Rawan
10 January 2015
Ute & Catherine
Mohammed, Mohammed, Amira & Adam
Al Hawaj Group
Sandra, Hussain, Savsan, Yasmin, Deena & Abbas
Al Sarraj Jewellers
Marise & Noushad
www.bahrainthismonth.com
IRRÉSISTIBLE...
bystander
Ibrahim Assaf
Imad & Hiba
Abdulla Juma & HE Dato Ahmad Shahizan bin Samad
Lebanese Independence Day Ibrahim Assaf, charge d’affaires, Embassy of Lebanon, hosted a reception to mark the 72nd anniversary of the Independence Day of Lebanon, at the embassy’s residence in Qufool. Dignitaries cut the cake
Jalil Al Ansari, Riyadh bin Saud Al Khenini & HE Hatun Demirer
x Jano & Vicky Mouawad, Mohammed Kanoo, Abdulla Juma & Sadiq Dawani
Fadi, Konstantinos & Rani
Sola & Maya
HE Taha Qadir, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran & HE Waheed Mubarak Sayyar
Younna & Rania
Wassim & Natali
12 January 2015
Patrik, Sola & Tony
Fuad & Fatema
Ted & Nysryne
Jean, Lori & Ann
Ali Al Asfoor & Yousif Dawani
Jaap, Wendy & Rushdi
Sameera Rajab
HE Mohammed bin Yousif
Nasser
HE Fawzi Tahir Abduaali
Vice Adm Kevin Donegan, Debra & HE Hatun Demirer
HE William Roebuck
Labecba
Hussain
www.bahrainthismonth.com
A SHOPPING FESTIVAL LIKE NO OTHER CREATED FOR YOU 24 DEC 2015 - 23 JAN 2016 It’s a month long frenzy of shopping, celebration and entertainment. We’ve got pop-up stores with charming collectibles. An ice-skating rink to enjoy those long winter evenings. Sumptuous menus at the finest restaurants. And a spectacular fireworks display. It’s the year’s biggest celebration and you’re invited.
Strategic Partners
Preferred Payment Card
bystander
Gan, Sara & Tina
Thailand’s Anniversary Celebrations On the occasion of the 88th birth anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and the National Day of Thailand, the Royal Thai Embassy in Bahrain hosted a reception at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Dignitaries cut the cake
Haifa, Yousif & Wararoj
Peter & Ebrahim
Kanok Phon, May & Panupong
Park & HE Nor Huda
Sally & Julie
William, Gerry & Kam
Eagan, Erna & Charmaine
Noi, Natano & Yukin
Natawut & Pichamol
Jawad Al Hawaj & HE Abdulrahman Khalil Ahmed
Wow & Lisa
HE Kiyoshi Asako, HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre & HE Joonha Yu
Sadiq, HE Alfred Simms-Protz & Perwin
Dana & Jumana
Netty & Jackie
Mattia, Falnzya & Juwana
Mirna, Julie & Calvin
14 January 2015
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Sayuri, Masaki, Yukiko and Daisuke
Japan’s 82nd Anniversary Celebration HE Kiyoshi Asako, Japanese Ambassador, held a reception to mark the 82nd birthday of His Majesty Emperor Akihito, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Residence & Spa. VIP guests cut the birthday cake
HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Hatun Demirer & HE Karim Al Shakar
HE Abdulrahman Khalil Ahmed & HE Vagif Garaev
Maryam & Haifa
Andrea & Horn
Vera & Daniel
Stephanie & Kate
Riyadh & Mohamed Tameemi
Wararoj & Omru Thai
Ameena, Tomoko & Suma
16 January 2015
Park, Mehdi & Lanze
Hassan, Abdulla Juma & Farooq Almoayed
HE Zayed Alzayani & HE Alok Sinha
HE Dato Ahmad, HE Chilman Arisman & Mehdi
Sadiq Dawani & Perwin
Satish & Umekawa
Waleed Kanoo & Abdul Hameed Kooheji
HE Joonha Yu, HE Alberto Vecchi & Romina, Sophie & HE Simon Martin
Egor, Elena & Jean
Perwin & Romina
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
HE Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa & HE Joonha Yu
Korean National Day HE Joonha Yu, Korean Ambassador, hosted a reception at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Residence & Spa, to mark Korea’s National Day. The event was attended by HH Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Advisor to the Prime Minister, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, VIPs, businessmen and invited guests. HE Abdulrahman Khalil Ahmed and Mrs Ahmed
Dignitaries cut the cake
Jihan, HE Joonha Yu & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran
Mrs & Mr Colonel Cheon Jae-ho, Ratnawati, Meeji, HE Chilman Arisman & HE Joonha Yu
HE William Roebuck
Hassan Mujle
Nor Hayati, Meeji & Asha
HE Qi Zhenhong
HE Alfonso Ver
HE Dr Ahmed Nayif Al Doulaimy & HE Taha Al Qadir
Mohammed Jowder
Mohammed Kooheji
Dignitaries catch-up at the event
Azadea Charity Event Azadea held an event for kids to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, at Paul CafĂŠ, Seef Mall. Youngsters joining in the fun
Farheen, Noora & Ankita
18 January 2015
Fadak & Khadmia
www.bahrainthismonth.com
8
Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre April 19th - 21st 2016
www.foodexpo.bh
JANUARY
2016.
PUBLIC ART GALORE When? Ongoing – January 9 Event? The Nest Venue? Block 338
Local talent has been thriving at this popular ongoing event, The Nest, presented by Al Riwaq Art Space which has been bringing art to
HAPPENINGS
Bahrain’s public spaces since 2010. This year’s edition continues until January 9 and, once again, concentrates on promoting the talent and potential of Bahraini art and design across the region. Following the growing success of its events, The Nest returns to Adliya, combining Market 338 and Alwan338. A celebration of public art and design, The Nest transforms the Block 338 area into a hotspot, focusing on the theme of Difference and Repetition. The programme of events includes public art and design installations; live music performances; art and design talks; film screenings; a market for local and regional designers; exhibitions and workshops that reflect current topics of contemporary design and its related disciplines. Making use of found and recycled materials, The Nest turns Adliya’s public square into a cosy
hideout – ‘The Park’ includes a stage for music performances, a seating area, a cinema screen, a kids’ playground and a corner café that is open daily from 4.30pm-8.30pm on week days and during The Nest timings at weekends. The Nest has commissioned several art projects from local and international artists that take place in the Block 338 area creating an interaction with specific locations. The music programmes include ‘Aalaat’ on January 7, from 8pm-9pm, ‘Swing Revue’ from 9pm-10pm and various buskers performing every weekend. The nest marketplace starts at 5pm, public art tour at 7pm and music concerts at 8pm. The Nest timings for weekends are Thursdays: from 5pm, Fridays: 3pm-10pm and Saturdays: noon-8pm. Call 17 717-441 or visit www.alriwaqartspace.com.
and January 25, during which you can take your own car or motorbike out onto the circuit’s drag strip and experience the thrill. Bahrain Drag Racing Championship Round 3
will be held from January 12-15. Watch scores of the best drag racers from across the Gulf and beyond flock to Sakhir for four nights of intense head-to-head battles. More action will be held at the Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) on January 15 with the Bahrain Rotax Mojo Max Challenge (BRMMC) Round 2 and the Sodi Sprint W Series (SSWS) Round 4. The very best of national karting will be on display with action galore in both events. The month ends with ‘Road Rush’ on January 29 and Endurance Sodi W Series (ESWS) Round 2 (3 Hours Race) at BIKC on January 30. Call the BIC hotline 17 450-000 or visit www.bahraingp.com.
MOTORING ACTION When? Throughout January Event? Motoring Events Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) Motoring enthusiasts can enjoy plenty of action as BIC stages a whole array of events. The month starts off with Open Track on January 2, followed by Night Open Track on January 7 where you can test how fast you and your car can go. The Circuit Racing Club of Bahrain (CRC) Round 4 will be held on January 8, when you can join in on some heated on-track action with some of the Kingdom’s best gentleman racers in the BIC 2000cc Challenge. The ever popular Drag and Drift Nights take place on January 11
MODERN HOUSING IN FOCUS When? January 7-9 Event? Housing Exhibition Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) In this day and age, furnishing a home with the finest cutting-edge and modern means of comfort and entertainment takes top priority. This is exactly what Bahrain International Modern House Exhibition 2016 aims to achieve this year. Organised by First Target, the event will be held from January 7-9, at BIECC’s Hall 1, under the patronage of Deputy Prime Minister 20 January 2016
HE Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa. The exhibition will provide the necessities of a modern house, all under one roof, featuring quality and unique products in furniture and decoration. Suited for every family, visitors can find everything they are looking for, from luxury to classic and modern items. Now in its second year, the event will see an increased participation from local and international companies, with various offers for Bahraini and Arabian Gulf visitors. The exhibition is open from 10am-10pm. Visit www.ftbh.net. www.bahrainthismonth.com
happenings
TO BE OR NOT TO BE When? January 11 Event? Play Venue? Cultural Hall Theatre lovers gear up for a fantastic evening of entertainment as Shakespeare’s greatest play, Hamlet, comes to the island. The world-renowned Shakespeare’s Globe will perform Hamlet as part of its two-year world tour commemorating the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death and the first genuine world tour in theatre history. The play’s plot revolves around the Danish prince, Hamlet, who, after
learning of the his father the king’s death, comes home to find his uncle married to his mother and set to take his place on the Danish throne. However, the ghost of the deceased king visits Hamlet and demands vengeance for his ‘foul and most unnatural murder’. With political intrigue and sexual obsession; philosophical reflection and violent action; tragic depth and wild humour; Hamlet has been called Shakespeare’s ‘poem unlimited’ and is considered as the fullest expression of the author’s profound genius. Featuring a diverse cast of travelling players, the thrilling show is co-directed by Dominic Dromgoole
When? Ongoing Event? Bahrain Unlocked - Digital Photography Exhibition Venue? Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre E Call 17 171-107.
and Bill Buckhurst, with designs by Jonathan Fensom and music by Bill Barclay and Laura Forrest-Hay. The show starts at 7pm with free admission. Minimum age requirement is eight years. Call 80 008-089 or visit www.culture.gov.bh.
LIVE AND LEAD When? January 12 Event? Leadership Course Venue? Oasis Training Center If you’re interested in integrating your personal and professional leadership development, then this course is right up your street. A Harvard faculty workshop, Authentic Leadership: A True North course on how to live and lead authentically, will be held on January 12 at the Oasis Training Center in Budaiya. The workshop consists of two sessions and is offered in partnership with Dana Born,
PhD, Harvard Kennedy School faculty member. Dana is a retired brigadier general with 30 years of service in the US Air Force and is also a senior consultant for the Authentic Leadership Institute (ALI). Session 1: Who are you? introduces
Authentic Leadership and discusses the differences between leader and leadership development and how it occurs. Session 2: Where Are You Headed? will build upon the first session and look at everything from self-awareness, a learning mindset, embracing vulnerability, to ‘deficit’ versus ‘strength-based’ models. The course is priced at BD75 per person, per session, with Session 1 held from 8am-9.30am and Session 2 from 10am-11.30am. Email info@oasistrainingbh.com.
INVESTING IN CULTURE When? January 19 Event? International Cultural Conference Venue? Various Venues Bahrain will take centre stage as an international conference Investing In Culture: Social & Business Impacts comes to the Kingdom. Under the patronage of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, Thinkers & Doers brings this conference to life with a vision to develop and update cultural infrastructures and reinforce the role of culture as a lever for social and economic development. 22 January 2016
The exclusive event will provide a platform for groundbreaking dialogue around the importance of investing in culture. Home to a vibrant artistic scene and the most ambitious cultural projects, the event will take place at the Bahrain National Theatre, the National Museum and the Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage and will host a unique gathering of 300 of the most inspiring and promising culture investors, officials and decision makers. Roundtables and debates, workshops and cultural start-up pitches will provide a platform to discuss culture as an investment
opportunity, as well as to reflect on the selection criteria for cultural investments. The day will also feature side events and an exceptional concert under the direction of Missa Johnouchi. Prestigious figures from all over the world will be attending with banks, investors, cultural entrepreneurs and creative industries also represented. Visit www.culture.gov.bh.
When? Ongoing – Throughout the Year Event? Water Sports Activities Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa E Call the Sports Club on 17 586-612 or email rc.bahrz. events@ritzcarlton.com. When? Ongoing – January 9 Event? The Nest Venue? Block 338 E Call 17 717-441 or visit www. alriwaqartspace.com. When? Ongoing – January 23 Event? Bahrain Shopping Festival - Shop Bahrain Venue? Nationwide E Visit www.shopbahrain.com. When? Ongoing - January 31 Event? Art Exhibition ‘Aleph in Many Letters’ by Samir Al Sayegh. Venue? Bin Matar House E Visit www. shaikhebrahimcenter.org. When? Throughout January Event? Motoring Events Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) E Call the BIC hotline 17 450-000 or visit www. bahraingp.com. When? January 2 Event? Amwaj Marina Market Venue? Amwaj Marina, Amwaj islands Have a fun-filled family day with shopping and kids’ entertainment. E Follow Facebook page Amwaj Islands, Instagram @amwaj_ islands and Twitter @ amwajislands When? January 4 Event? Three Steps To Change webinar Venue? Online Learn three basic principals of the ASK technique through a free webinar by Kelly Armatage. E Visit www.facebook.com/ events/1244751095540964/ for more information.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
happenings
MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA When? January 19 Event? Musical Show Venue? Bahrain National Theatre A fantastic music concert will be held in Bahrain in conjunction with an international cultural conference. The show will feature Missa Johnouchi, an artist of many talents, along with the Bahrain Music Band. Missa was named the UNESCO Artist for Peace in 2006. The Japanese singer, composer and pianist is a prolific performer who creates enchanting New Age music infused with the unmistakable spirit of the Far East. Missa began composing for various TV programmes and theatrical releases while still a student at the Academic Institute of Music of Toho in Japan. This success led her to France where she became a protégé
of legendary composer JeanClaude Petit. To date, she has produced dozens of albums and performed globally including the US, China, Tunisia, Italy, Australia, Venezuela, Peru, Canada, Macedonia, Romania and France, among others. For her appearance in the Kingdom, she will be accompanied on stage by the Bahrain Music Band — a musical ensemble formed in 1998 aimed at developing promising Bahraini musical talents and advancing of the nation’s cultural movement as a whole. The group performed its first concert, Tajalliyat Sharqiya and in a very brief period of time, built a loyal following, playing to packed venues in Bahrain and abroad, including the 9th Arab Music Conference and Festival
in Cairo in 2000. This success won the band universal support from decision makers and gave birth to a new generation of Bahraini musicians while raising the country’s profile as a centre for art and culture. Only Balcony 1 and 2 are for sale. Tickets are on sale at Virgin Megastore and online at virginmegastore.me. The show starts at 7pm. Minimum age requirement is 10 years. Call 80 008-089 or visit www.culture.gov.bh
EDUCATION EXPO RETURNS When? January 21-23 Event? Schools Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) An annual event that brings all the educational institutions together under one roof is back this month. Bahrain Schools Expo 2016 will be held from January 21-23 at the BIECC. The expo will draw private schools, preschools, nurseries, kindergartens and educational institutions from all over Bahrain to present their education system, curriculum, facilities, costs and advantages. The event will provide a great opportunity for parents to gather information and compare the different available education options in Bahrain. It will also give a
chance for the whole family to have a great time through the many educational sessions taking place, such as in the activities area and the seminar corner. The expo is open to all, free of charge, from 10am-9pm. Call 17 300-363, 39 933-241, email info@groovy.im or visit www.bahrainschools.net.
A unique exhibition will be held later this month focusing on the needs of mothers and children. The Mother and Child Expo will be held from January 21-23 at the BIECC, from 10am to 9pm. The event is a one-stop platform 24 January 2016
that offers a large selection of maternity products, newborn and baby items, as well as items for children. Explore everything from toys and accessories to saving plans for your child’s education, all under one roof. The expo will also include interactive expert seminars and live stage performances along with an educational activities area where parents can leave their kids while enjoying the expo.
When? January 7-9 Event? Bahrain International Modern House Exhibition 2016 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) E Visit www.ftbh.net. When? January 11 Event? Play - Hamlet Venue? Cultural Hall E Call 80 008-089 or visit www. culture.gov.bh. When? January 11 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant, Adliya Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795. When? January 11 Event? Talk - Bahrain in the novel of Holy Sail Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Research The talk will feature Abdulaziz Al Mahmood from Qatar, starting at 8pm. E Visit www. shaikhebrahimcenter.org. When? January 12 Event? Authentic Leadership Course Venue? Oasis Training Center E info@oasistrainingbh.com. When? January 13 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant, Adliya Enjoy an evening discussing poetry with fellow enthusiasts at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795.
MUMMIES AND BABIES When? January 21-23 Event? Mother and Child Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC)
When? January 7 Event? Poetry Evening Venue? Ebrahim Al Arrayed House of Poetry Enjoy an evening of poetry with Sayed Hijab from Egypt, starting at 8pm. E Visit www. shaikhebrahimcenter.org.
Entry is free of charge. Call 17 300-363, 39 933-241, email info@groovy.im or visit www.mncbh.com
When? January 18 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Creative Workshop Venue? Umami Restaurant, Adliya Hone your creative writing skills with this interesting workshop at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
happenings
AIRSHOW RETURNS!!! One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) returns this month in full glory. MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Mark your diaries as the most exciting aviation event in this year’s calendar is back! The Bahrain International Airshow will take place from January 21-23, 10am to 6pm, at Sakhir Airbase, under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad. Organised by the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications in co-operation with the Royal Bahraini Air Force and in association with Farnborough International, the event promises to be a thrilling experience for the entire family, featuring activities and entertainment for everyone. In the air, visitors can enjoy some of the world’s most remarkable flying demonstrations, with aerobatic display teams including the Russian Knights, the Saudi Hawks, UAE’s Al Fursan and India’s Sarang Helicopter Display Team, providing spectacular thrills for viewers who can watch everything from the grandstand. On the ground, visitors can play exciting games such as Bubble Bash football, where teams try to score goals and stay on their feet while wearing large bubbles. They can also try their flight skills at the CXC Flight Simulator, piloting commercial airliners, fighter jets, private planes and helicopters. Families can ride in a Motion Capsule simulator, which will take them through an exciting and thrilling flight adventure. Walking around the event, entertainment will find you! Don’t be surprised if a street magician approaches you ready to mystify or if you encounter some surprises along your way. 26 January 2016
There will be a jump rope crew turning a childhood pastime into an impressive show. For excellent photo opportunities, there will also be creative graffiti art, 3D street art, stilt walkers and Instagram-able giant BIAS 2016 sculptures. Visitors will be spoilt for choice with the food and beverage options that can be found throughout the event as well as some light shopping at the retail kiosks. They can also head down to the Heritage Village for a dose of culture. The little ones will be kept entertained with an amusing magic show, competitions and games. Children’s activities also include face painting, a swing chair carousel and a large play area featuring huge inflatable slides and obstacle courses. There will be a variety of on-stage performances and shows throughout the threeday event. In the day time, international illusionist One with Magic, will have even the most notorious skeptics amazed, along with
two live musical performances daily at 4pm. Highlights include Bahrain-based talents like the progressive fusion folk band Majaz; the original Arabic-rapping hip hop sensation The Mystro; and Havaneros Band, who will be bringing people to their feet with upbeat Latin music. The headliners include Hanan Redha, who will entertain the crowds with her dulcet tones; Kuwaiti hip hop star Daffy, performing his hit song Samboosa with DJ Outlaw; and bringing the week to a close will be Bahrain’s own DJ Jackson. Tickets can be purchased from all Batelco outlets, priced at BD10 for adults and BD5 for children up to 16 years. A five-per-cent discount is also available on group bookings of 20+ tickets. Parking and access to the site is from Bahrain International Circuit. Visit www.bahraininternationalairshow.com or follow @bahraininternationalairshow on instagram and @BahAirshow on twitter. www.bahrainthismonth.com
Experience the thrills Buy your tickets now!
FLYING
HIGH 21-23 January, Sakhir Airbase Tickets available at all Batelco outlets
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happenings
THOUGHT PROVOKING ART When? January 21-March 15 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Inspired by the story of Gilgamesh and the breathtaking fountain, the centre piece of the venue, La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art brings another new installation exhibition to art lovers — KKF’s (Keskon Fabrique) Fountain of Youth. The exhibition combines the myth of the epic of Gilgamesh and La Fontaine itself. KKF is a team of French collaborators with two artists, David Galimant and Nicolas Pennaneac’h. In this exhibition, like Gilgamesh and Enkidu, the artists confront and unite
their duality around the conversion of materials and objects, to give them a new life. They have conceived a series of installations especially for the fountain that they will create on the spot in seven days. These installations are based on creations in blue bubble wrap, a basic material that the artists have transcended into poetic compositions, such as The Water Bubbles, The Raining Clouds or The Birds. The exhibition aims to rejuvenate people’s relationship to art, which KKF aims to simplify, humanise and reinstate to life. Photographs of the different elements of these installations will also be presented at the exhibition, offering another point of view on the creations.
La fontaine will also co-operate for the first time with the EDB in giving a workshop for 12 Bahrainis on January 22. The exhibition opens at 6pm, followed by dinner and a jazz performance by Hans and Rachael Stockenberger, with Khalid Alshamlan on the piano. The exhibition and concert dinner is priced at BD30 net. Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.
MUSIC FILM SCREENING When? January 24
Event? Movie Night
Enjoy a relaxed outing as La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art holds a movie night with the film screening of Fados. The production is a fusion of cinema, song, dance and instrumental numbers, exploring Portugal’s most emblematic musical genre, Fado, and its spirit of
Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art
saudade (melancholy). Using Lisbon as its iconic backdrop, the film explores the intricate relationship between the music and the city, and Fado’s evolution over the years from its African and Brazilian origins all the way up to the new wave of modern Faudistas. Directed by Carlos Saura and under the musical supervision of Carlos do Carmo, Saura deploys mirrors, back projections, lighting effects and lush colours to frame each song. The film gives homage to Maria
Severa, Alfredo Marceneiro and Amália Rodrigues, as well as modern stars like Mariza and Camané. Saura expands the songs (which traditionally involve just a singer and a guitarist) with dance and includes other nationalities and idioms (such as hip hop, flamenco and reggae). The screening starts at 8pm and tickets are priced at BD10, which can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening. Call 17 230-123, email info@ lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.
MUSICAL COMES TO TOWN When? January 26-28
Event? Musical
One of Shakespeare’s most renowned romantic tragedy plays hits our shores this month. Entertainment+ presents Shakespeare 4 Kidz’s (S4K) Romeo & Juliet, the musical, live on stage from the UK. The theatre production, which is making a short tour of the Gulf, following its opening in Croydon, South London, will enthrall the Bahrain audience from January 26-28 at the Cultural Hall. Romeo and Juliet, the most famous love story in the world, tells the tale of two families in a long-standing feud 28 January 2016
Venue? Cultural Hall
and two young people destined to fall in love, whose tragic deaths ultimately reconcile their feuding families. This S4K production, with typically a cast of over 20 actors, is brilliantly, and often hilariously, brought to life in a vibrant, fun-filled and rock ‘n’ rolling musical. Suitable for theatre lovers of all ages, this is a great way to introduce your children to Shakespeare in a fun way. Show timings are 11.30am on January 26; 8.45am and 11.45am on January 27; and 10.30am and 6.30pm on January 28.
Tickets are priced at BD16, with a special offer of four tickets for BD52. Schools will also be given special deals. Call or email entertainment+ for bookings and enquiries. Tickets are available at Havajava in Manazel and Alosra Supermarkets. Call 39 616-858, email entertainmentplusint@gmail.com or visit www.entertainmentplus.me
When? January 18 Event? Talk - The Prospects and Problems of Contemporary Arab Art Venue? Abdullah Al Zayed House for Bahraini Press Heritage The evening will feature Maha Sultan from Lebanon, starting at 8pm. E Visit www. shaikhebrahimcenter.org. When? January 19 Event? International Cultural Conference Venue? Various Venues E Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? January 19 Event? Music Concert by Missa Johnouchi and the Bahrain Music Band Venue? Bahrain National Theatre E Call 80 008-089 or visit www. culture.gov.bh. When? January 19 Event? Gardening Workshop Venue? Bahrain Garden Club, Juffair The club will be holding a workshop on grafting at 10am. E Call 17 727-625 or visit www. bahraingardenclub.com for more information. When? January 21-23 Event? Bahrain International Airshow Venue? Sakhir Airbase, access to site from Bahrain International Circuit E Visit www. bahraininternationalairshow.com or follow @bahraininternationalairshow on instagram and @BahAirshow on twitter. When? January 21-23 Event? Bahrain Schools Expo 2016 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre E Call 17 300-363, 39 933-241 or visit www.bahrainschools.net. When? January 21-23 Event? Mother and Child Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre E Call 17 300-363, 39 933-241 or visit www.mncbh.com. When? January 21-March 15 Event? Art Exhibition - KKF’s Fountain of Youth Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123 or visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net.
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happenings
RETAIL THERAPY When? January 26 - February 4 Event? Autumn Fair 2016 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) Get ready for some serious shopping as Bahrain’s biggest annual consumer products exhibition, the Autumn Fair 2016, returns to the island. The fair will be held from January 26 to February 4 at the BIECC, under the patronage of the Bahrain Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Now in its 27th year, the Autumn Fair is the most widely attended exhibition in Bahrain and is expected to attract over 200,000 visitors. This year, visitors can look forward to more choice, new exhibitors, unique products and
thousands of potential bargains. Over 750 exhibitors from 21 countries will showcase products from across the globe during this 10-day event, ranging from speciality foods, fashion and furniture to technology, toys, textiles and more. Additional entertainment includes an outdoor children’s play area, a live band and costume characters. The entire exhibition centre will be transformed into a colourful bazaar with local and international traders bringing their country’s best exports. The national pavilions include countries such as China, Egypt, India, Kuwait, Lebanon, Pakistan, Turkey, Thailand, Syria, UAE and Yemen. Entry costs 800fils and is free for children under five.
The exhibition will open daily to the public from noon-10pm on January 26; 10am-2 pm and 4pm-10 pm on January 27and 28; noon-10pm on January 29; 10am-2pm and 4pm-10pm from January 30-February 2; and 10am-10 pm from February 3-4. Ladies only mornings will be held on January 31 and February 1. Call 17 550-033 or visit www.theautumnfair.com
meet some new friends. It costs BD10 to participate and register your dog. The registration desk opens at 9.30am on the day and the walk starts at 10.30am, with a 2km walk for the younger children and 4km for older kids and adults. There are first, second and third prizes for the most sponsorship money raised, with a fantastic bike for the winner, donated by Skate Shack. There will also be other prizes, including one for the Best Dressed Human and the Best Owner/ Pet Lookalike. Paddle pools for the dogs, raffles,
prizes, stalls and refreshments will be available as well as giveaway goodies. Visitors can also take a ‘selfie’ of themselves and their four-legged friend in the BSPCA Instagram photo booth. There will be a competition on Facebook for the best photo sent in, with the winner featuring in the BSPCA’s 2017 calendar. All proceeds go towards running the shelter and funding BSPCA’s free Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate and Return (CNVR) scheme for cats and dogs. Information, sponsorship form and location map available online (www. bspca.org), on BSPCA Facebook page, at the AWC and Thrift Shop. Call the AWC on 17 591-231 to rent a pooch or call Michelle on 33 121-769.
STRUT YOUR MUTT When? January 29 Event? Dog Walk Venue? BSPCA Animal Welfare Centre (AWC) Enjoy a fun-filled day out with your furry friends and raise funds for charity at the same time, as the BSPCA organises its annual dog walk, Strut Your Mutt, on January 29 at the AWC in Askar. All you need to do is bring your own dog or pre-book one of the BSPCA’s resident canines and you’re ready to strut your mutt. This year’s event will be extra special as all former BSPCA shelter dogs are invited to return to their roots for a reunion at the AWC as well as join in the fun of the walk and
When? January 25 Event? Talk - Pyramids, Mummies and Cleopatra: Recent Discoveries Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Research The talk will feature Zahi Hawaz from Egypt, starting at 8pm. E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org When? January 26-February 4 Event? Autumn Fair 2016 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) E Call 17 550-033 or visit www. theautumnfair.com. When? January 26 Event? Garden Club Programme Venue? Bahrain Garden Club, Juffair Learn everything there is to know about aromatic herbs at the club at 10am. E Call 17 727-625 or visit www. bahraingardenclub.com for more information. When? January 29 Event? BSPCA Dog Walk – Strut Your Mutt Venue? BSPCA Animal Welfare Centre (AWC) E Call the AWC on 17 591-231 or call Michelle on 33 121-769. When? January 30 Event? Bahrain SWS Endurance Championship 2015/2016, Round 2 (3 Hours Race) Venue? Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) E Call 17 451-745 or visit www. Bahrain-karting.com.
KARTING FUN When? January 30 Event? Karting Championship Venue? Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) Karting enthusiasts, buckle up as Sodi World Series (SWS) continues into the new year. The BIKC will be home to more action-filled karting fun as it hosts the Bahrain SWS Endurance Championship 2015/2016, where drivers will get a chance to test their skills. The ESWS Round 2 (3 Hours Race) will be held on January 30 and will see teams compete for a chance to reach the SWS 30 January 2016
finals. Team classifications include Professional, Nations and Corporates. The top winning teams will qualify for the Sodi World Finals and other worldwide races. Fee for Round 2 (3Hr) is BD260 and entry is free for spectators. Call 17 451-745 or visit www.Bahrain-karting.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com
afterdark happenings
AN ACT TO REMEMBER RAMEE BAISAN HOTEL
One of the Kingdom’s oldest and most popular venues is starting the New Year on a fresh note with brand new in-house entertainment. Warbler, Bahrain’s oldest English pub, has been a popular haunt for anyone who enjoys great entertainment, beverages and pub grub. The joint gives a ringing start to the New Year with a brand new in-house band called Act Seven. The band is sure to be a hit with the audience given its impressive choreography and powerful vocals. The seven-piece ensemble aims to keep you dancing all night long. This energetic group of talented musicians will play all of today’s greatest hits alongside your favourite classics, covering
genres like R&B, hip-hop, pop, disco, reggae and more. Located in Ramee Baisan Hotel, Warbler is guilty of being “proudly old fashioned” with an ambience that takes you to the streets of London. In addition to top-class entertainment and decor, the food on offer at this iconic venue is
truly international. The pub has also become increasingly famous for its fun-filled Friday brunch or “Frunch” as it is popularly called and the Great British Roast every Sunday, which recently started. This is also a great place to catch all the sporting action with your mates as there are big plasma
screens on the walls that show all major games and matches live. The bar counter is stocked with your favourite beverages. Along with the usual specialities, there are many other heady concoctions that promise to make your evenings even more fun. Call 38 381-631.
bystander
St Andrew’s Ball
The Bahrain Caledonian Society Awali Club’s annual St. Andrew’s Ball took place at the Bapco Club in Awali.
Will, Linda & Tom
Catherine & Chris
Vickie, Ron & Barbie
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Nikki, Ewan & Steve
Dave, Salela & Cedric
Evan & John
Francesca & Ivonne
Caroline, Kevin & Claudia
Nancy, Les & Yoy
Paul & Rodney
George & Juha
January 2016 31
afterdark happenings
A SUPER NIGHT
SWING SENSATION When? January 1 Event? The Belly Of Paris live Venue? The Nest, Adliya Join Bahrain’s premier chord baroque-folk sextet to start the New Year on a musical note. E Visit www.soundcloud.com/ bellyofparis.
When? January 28 Event ? Guest DJs Venue? Bushido Restaurant & Lounge An international name in nightlife events, SuperMartXé is set to deliver a unique show in Bahrain that promises to immerse partygoers with cutting-edge clubbing technology and a tantalising theme. The brand is known for showcasing international DJs from the likes of Vitti, Hugo Sanchez, Ab Garcia, Salva Di Nobles, Michael Sanchez and Abel the Kid, as well as live performers including Nalaya, Natalia, Luca G, Sandra Criado, Miguel Lara, Ellys Leon and Lexterg at some of the biggest party venues across the world. Expect a night to remember with SuperMartXé’s top DJs supported by DJ Albert-L Ladies’ entry is free before 10pm and BD10 after. Gents’ entry is priced at BD15. VIP table reservations are also available. Call 17 583-555.
IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY!
When? January 8 Event? Swing night Venue? Polo Gastropub With influences from their respective countries; Armenia, Australia, England and the Philippines, The Swing Revue have been drawing in audiences from across the U.A.E. with their authentic choice of swing tunes, versatile instrumentation, energy and expression on stage. Get a taste of the talented band’s music as they mix well-loved and lesser-known jazz melodies from the 20s through to the 50s with original compositions having developed an organic reflection of the swing era ambience. With an already impressive list of high-end clients including French fashion house Lanvin, the famous Ibiza venue now in Dubai, Pacha, and the Dubai World Cup, to name a few, The Swing Revue continues to build its reputation across the GCC. Event starts from 9pm and entry is free. Call 17 725-000.
STRAITS UP When? January 21 Event? Tribute band Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel
When? January 16 Event? Capricorn Birthday Bash Venue? Ibrida American rapper and actor Mystikal takes the stage at Ibrida to deliver a grand birthday bash for all Capricorns. This mighty celebration includes two more stellar acts — DJ Regg One and DJ Santi. Bring the house down with a series of energetic tunes and heady concoctions from the bar. The show starts at 9.30pm and tickets are priced at BD20 if bought in advance and BD25 at the door. For BD160 you can reserve a small table that comes with one bottle of premium spirit and for BD250, you can reserve a table for six persons that includes two bottles of premium spirit. Call 36 218-258, 36 054-814 or 17 111-999. 32 January 2016
One of the best Dire Straits tribute bands in Europe comes to Bahrain to deliver a night to remember for all the fans. Money for Nothing was formed in 2000 as a tribute to one of the world’s premier rock bands. Their energy and talent makes them a “must see” for any rock enthusiast or Dire Straits fan. Fronting the band is the brilliant guitarist and Mark Knopfler sound-alike Aled Williams. Behind him the lineup features top-class musicians that make this band a worthy tribute to the rock legends. Together they have studied Dire Straits in great depth to re-create their tribute to be as close as possible to the real thing. Call 17 713-000.
When? January 6 Event? Grape tasting evening Venue? Repartee Lounge Sample some hand picked vintages from around the world. E Call 17 750-777. When? January 8 Event? Swing night Venue? Polo Gastropub Enjoy an evening of great music by The Swing Revue. E Call 17 725-000. When? January 16 Event? Capricorn Birthday Bash Venue? Ibrida American rapper Mystikal takes the stage for a grand birthday bash for all Capricorns. E Call 36 218-258, 36 054-814 or 17 111-999. When? January 21 Event? Tribute Show Venue? Sherlock Holmes Catch one of the best Dire Straits tribute bands, Money for Nothing, in action. E Call 17 713-000. When? January 28 Event? Guest DJ Venue? Bushido Restaurant & Lounge Come down for this unique show that’ll enthral all partygoers. E Call 17 583-555. When? January 29 Event? After brunch party Venue? Muju Dance away to DJ Epps and DJ Okason’s electrifying tunes. E Call 16 039-800. When? Throughout January Event? Bar promotion Venue? Trader Vic’s Enjoy 30 per cent off selected beverages, including the signature Mai-Tai drinks. E Call 17 586-555.
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at from 8th to 14th January 2016
Enjoy the Turkish nights daily from 8pm at Neyran Restaurant.
For reservation please call + 973 17584400
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INTERVIEWS
SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS CHARLIE HOLDING Now in its fourth edition, the Bahrain International Airshow is back bigger and better than ever.
ALSO THIS MONTH: 36 VICE ADM KEVIN DONEGAN 39 STRIVING FOR PERFECTION
Ahmed Alnemah
A
hmed Alnemah, Acting Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs, Ministry Of Transportation and Telecommunications, is confident that this year’s airshow will be one to remember thanks to a number of new elements. The Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS), which takes place at the Sakhir Airbase, comprises 40 purpose-built luxury chalets with direct access to the aircraft static display and views of the flying display. Last year, aircraft participation increased with 89 aircraft on the static display and a total of 106 aircraft (flying and static) participating in the show. “The event also has an exhibition hall allowing for more aerospace businesses to participate in the show. This hall is around double the size of the previous edition, due to increased demand,” says Ahmed. “We are expecting participation at this show to be higher than ever before, as a result of a number of new elements being introduced this year, including a hosted buyer programme and 34 January 2016
two conferences. In addition, we have succeeded in attracting delegations from more countries than previous shows, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and India. “Visitor numbers are expected to reach a total of around 50,000 with an estimated 30,000 visitors attending the trade show and at least 20,000 attending the public event.” When it comes to entertainment, there is plenty on offer to keep the whole family happy. Over the three-day spectacular, visitors will be able to go on a number of rides, including a realistic flight experience simulator and an exciting flight motion ride. There will also be street performers and a variety of well-known Bahraini acts will perform throughout the day. From traditional Bahraini music at the Heritage Village to local rappers and DJs, there is something for everyone. Highlights include The Mystro, DJ Jackson, Majaz Band, DJ Outlaw, Kuwaiti singer-songwriter Daffy and Bahraini Arab Idol Star, Hanan Redha. “Leaving the best till last, visitors can enjoy www.bahrainthismonth.com
Demonstrations at the previous Airshow
the speed and action of the spectacular sixhour flying display from the comfort of grandstand seating right on the flight line,” Ahmed says. “Some of the aerobatic teams flying include the Saudi Hawks, UAE’s Al Fursan, the Russian Knights, Mark Jefferies solo aerobatics and the SWIP Twister display team with their amazing evening display.” The public area entertainment will start at 10am and run until 6pm during the airshow from January 21-23. Entry to the public area can be accessed via Bahrain International Circuit and tickets are being sold at all Batelco outlets. BIAS is a commercially focused airshow that seeks to give aerospace businesses a personalised experience, offering access to high-level delegations within the aerospace community, all within a dedicated arena. Established in 2010, the event is renowned for its world-class facilities; providing an opportunity to meet with industry peers and customers as well as participate in the civil and military delegations programme. With these different elements all in place, ample networking opportunities for all trade delegates are provided, and the evidence of its success is in the number of international companies that return with each edition. “I would like that all trade visitors who come to this edition of the show feel a real added benefit to their business from the number of increased networking opportunities that we are providing,” Ahmed explains. “From the public’s perspective, I hope that families visiting the public area have a great day out and enjoy the music, the recreational activities and the spectacular flying displays that we have lined up for them. “And, of course, for Bahrain, I hope that we www.bahrainthismonth.com
show, with national pavilions from India, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan and the UK. Due to the popularity of the hall, which was introduced at the last show in 2014, we are doubling the size of the hall this year, allowing more companies to participate.” On the commercial side Qatar Airways will bring its Airbus A380 and A350, Gulf Air will have an A320 on display and Kuwait Airways will also bring an A350 and its recently delivered A320, equipped with Sharklets. There will also be a host of business aircraft from Embrear, Gulf Stream and TAG Aeronautics. Military aircraft include a T129 ATAK helicopter from Turkish Aircraft Industries, a Eurofighter Typhoon from the RAF and a number of aircraft of the US Airforce and US Navy. Ahmed says that whilst BIAS is about facilitating business, it is no mean feat putting on such an event. “The BIAS Supreme Organising Committee is chaired by His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Personal Representative to His Majesty the King, and comprises a core team from, MTT, Royal Bahraini Air Force, Farnborough International, organisers of the world famous Farnborough International Airshow in the UK, and other relevant stakeholders. “It meets regularly over the two-year show cycle to plan and organise all elements of the event. From an operational point of view, every element of the show must be considered to ensure the participant experience is a good as possible. From electricity, water supply and Internet connectivity to site security, everything must be just right.”
achieve an ever more successful show that further solidifies Bahrain’s importance as a centre for aviation events and business.” BIAS16 will see its largest international participation to date with representation from the US, UK, France, India, Kuwait, Russia, Qatar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Taiwan and Turkey. The Saudi presence is expected to be significantly larger this year, with Saudi Arabian Airlines, for example, participating for the first time, as well as a number of other Saudi companies who will be brought together by the Saudi Civil Aviation Authority. Multi-national organisations will include Airbus, BAE Systems, Boeing, Finmeccanica, Lockheed Martin, Turkish Aerospace Industries and Thales Group. Ahmed says: “The exhibition features hall has also allowed smaller business to attend the January 2016 35
interview
NEW MAN ON THE BRIDGE LIZ O’REILLY The new man in charge at Bahrain’s US Naval base, Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan, Commander, US Naval Forces Central Command, US 5th Fleet, Combined Maritime Forces, spoke to BTM about settling in to his role.
N
AVCENT/5th Fleet oversees US Naval military operations throughout the Middle East and Central Asia, along with 2.5 million square miles of surrounding oceans. These vital waterways include three of the world’s most critical maritime straits. The area of operations runs from along the west coast of India in the east, all the way to the mouth of the Suez Canal at the Mediterranean Sea in the west and includes all of the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf and as far south as Kenya. Vice Adm Donegan says: “This region is arguably the most dynamic and challenging in the world from a military operations perspective. My aim is to provide the right oversight and guidance needed by our forward deployed Naval forces to carry out their critical missions. “Four nations in this region are currently embroiled in conflict and our forces are playing an important role in each of them. Naval aviation from our aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships are striking ISIL targets in Iraq and Syria. We are providing advice, intelligence and logistics support to the Saudi-led coalition fighting the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. Navy personnel remain in Afghanistan, primarily in the form of one of the country’s most critical trauma hospitals, supporting international forces.” A big part of the command’s work is ensuring free and safe maritime passage for legitimate shipping. “Forty per cent of the energy vital to the global economy passes through this region’s maritime chokepoints and these crucial 36 January 2016
Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan
global commons remain stable, open and safe because America’s Navy operates forward here, each and every day, around the clock. “Together with our allies and partnering nations, NAVCENT forces ensure the uninterrupted free flow of commerce through the region by keeping these sea lanes open and safe for legitimate use. If just one major maritime chokepoint was closed restricting trade, within about six weeks, gasoline prices could quadruple and a litre of milk would almost triple in price, as would the price of any commodity that must be transported to a market,” explains the Vice Adm. With regular travel across the region and constant contact with his local counterparts, Vice Adm Donegan is very keen to take local perspectives on board. He says: “I’ve been getting out and seeing my counterparts and others. Talking to them about what they think I should be doing, they’ve seen a lot of commanders come and go. They’ve seen some things work and some not, they’ve seen a lot of change in the region. “I think that to be a good leader, you have to be a good listener and I’m trying to put that into practice.” He points out that, aside from coming to work in traffic the same as everyone else, there is no such thing as an average day. But he says: “A big part of my job is ensuring that we have as complete an understanding as possible of the dynamic forces at play in the region that could
Meeting the Coastguard
lead to conflict. To manage all that, NAVCENT leads joint and coalition forces, including three multinational task forces and nine US naval task forces which provide oversight for strike forces, contingency response forces, mine warfare assets, logistical support, submarine forces, surface forces, expeditionary combat forces, maritime patrol forces and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief coordination. “The United States is one of 30 nations, including regional partners and traditional US allies, making up the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), which I also have the honour to lead. Together with NAVCENT, the CMF conducts more than 50 naval exercises each year, including the International Mine Counter Measures Exercise, the largest maritime exercise in the world.“ As well as the US Navy’s military role, there www.bahrainthismonth.com
is also a significant humanitarian side to what the force does. Vice Adm Donegan explains: “At home and overseas, US Naval forces are often at the forefront of relief operations during humanitarian assistance and disaster response efforts. Our persistently forward and ready posture, using the seas to lift and sustain a national or multinational response, is precisely what enables the Navy to provide relief and assistance. “Our forces in NAVCENT routinely train and prepare to conduct these sort of operations should they be required here in the region. As an example, our planners recently examined ways we might provide support to relief operations following the damaging cyclones that struck Yemen in November.” No stranger to the Kingdom, having visited many times over the years, Vice Adm Donegan adds: “Bahrain is a fascinating place with an amazing culture and heritage that stretches back for thousands of years. From the Qal’at al-Bahrain with its legacy dating to 2300 BC, as the ancient harbour and capital of the Dilmun civilization, to modern architectural marvels like the Bahrain World Trade Centre, there is always something new to see and experience. I’ve had the privilege of meeting with many Bahrainis since I arrived ranging from the highest levels of the Kingdom’s leadership to ordinary private citizens and, without fail, all have been welcoming, gracious and hospitable.” A confirmed family man, the Vice Adm is joined in Bahrain by his wife and children. He says: “Like anyone, I value the time spent with my family at the end of the day. Importantly, it helps keep me connected to the needs of the thousands of US service members and their families who are stationed here in Bahrain. My family is enjoying the experience and they have already connected with many new friends. “Any family that’s ever moved abroad quickly learns that some things are easier than they expected, some things are harder than they
Taking on his new command
expected, and some things they just never expected! But that’s what makes opportunities like our time here in Bahrain so interesting, exciting and, frankly, a bit of an adventure. I think this experience will pay rich rewards for my children as they have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a culture that, while not too unfamiliar, has its own unique and rich traits that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.” And outlining his plans for his time in Bahrain, the Vice Adm concludes: “Personally, I hope to continue to find ways to carve out time for my family, for worship, for reading and for reflection. It’s far too easy for all of us to treat these things as secondary concerns that we make time for when work permits. It doesn’t matter whether you’re the admiral in charge, like me, or a sailor on the deck plates of the ship, we all have professional demands that can easily consume all our time if we allow it, distracting us from the simple pursuits that make us better leaders, better professionals
Below decks
www.bahrainthismonth.com
and better human beings. “Professionally, my priorities are ensuring that our US Naval forces operating here in the region continue to provide the stability and reassurance that’s vital to continued flow of commerce throughout the region and that we continually improve and expand the relationships that collectively result in a more stable and prosperous Middle East and, by extension, the world. “Let me be clear however, that no single nation has the capacity to protect and defend the global system alone. A collective effort will ensure our maritime forces provide that necessary presence. Whether in the blue water of the Atlantic and Pacific, or the turquoise waters of the Gulf, we can help assure stability and security, creating and strengthening global relationships, providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, deterring adversaries and meeting and defeating threats when necessary. “We have to remember that collective security is just that, collective. That doesn’t mean that a handful of big nations provide all of the security for the collective; it means all nations benefitting from the collective security contribute to it in a meaningful way. “It isn’t just the economic benefits in our individual countries that matter. We all benefit from the way that shared economic success helps us limit conflict and war. Maritime instability can contribute to unrest and violence, stoking the fires of conflict. By helping to secure the world’s oceans and responding to crises early to limit escalation, the US Navy and our partner maritime forces in the region play a vital role in the world.” January 2016 37
interview
TARGETING AGREEMENTS AND INVESTMENT LIZ O’REILLY Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali speaks to BTM about trade deals and the result of a booming economy.
T
he upturn in Bangladesh’s economy in recent years has led to a shortage of agricultural workers which could see members of Bahrain’s 150,000-strong Bengali labour force deserting the island to return home. That was the view of the country’s Foreign Minister, Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali, when he paid a whistle-stop trip to the Kingdom paving the way for a Prime Ministerial visit early in 2016. Mr Ali was in Bahrain following an invitation issued just a few months ago during a meeting at the United Nations General Assembly. He said: “We have an excellent relationship with Bahrain and, like all relationships, it needs to be nurtured and taken forward.” The minister’s visit included high-level meetings with HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and several other government and officials. The meetings led to the signing of three important agreements dealing with: protection of investment; double taxation; and bilateral consultations between the foreign affairs ministries of the two countries. “Bahrain’s Prime Minister invited our Prime Minister to visit, which we expect to happen around early February and we hope to sign a number of further agreements then,” said Mr Ali. He added that the Bahraini government has invited Bangladesh to present an exposition of 38 January 2016
Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali
the products it exports which it’s hoped will increase trade between the two countries. The Foreign Minister said Bangladesh, most known for its garment exports, has now made a strong entry into other markets such as pharmaceuticals, an area which he said was ripe for investment from the region. “The private sector is coming in in a big way, Japan, China, India and Korea all have substantial investment in Bangladesh and are setting up production facilities. Even some Italian leather shoe makers are planning to move their production facilities,” he said. “We are setting up special economic zones all over the country, with around 100 planned.” These will be areas where investment will be actively encouraged and will include rural areas as well as towns and cities. Pointing out that his country’s growth has run
at six per cent for the last six years since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina came back into office, he added that experts are predicting seven per cent growth for the current year. However, while this growth is very welcome, Mr Ali did admit that increased production has actually led to a shortage of agricultural workers, in turn prompting a move towards levels of mechanisation previously unseen. Asked if his country’s newfound prosperity could lead to the Gulf’s Bangladeshi workforce heading home, as has happened with many of the region’s former Indian workers, Mr Ali agreed this could indeed be a possibility. However, he added that Bangladesh is also keen to welcome Bahrainis, particularly to its military training facilities adding that his country is ready to play a key role in the Saudi-led Islamic military coalition combatting terrorism. www.bahrainthismonth.com
Jin Kim
STRIVING FOR PERFECTION CHARLIE HOLDING Following the launch of the new Hyundai Creta, BTM caught up with Jin (James) Kim — the company’s vice-president and head of operations for Africa and the Middle East.
H
yundai Motor Company launched the Creta — its new sub-compact SUV — in Africa and the Middle East. This addition to the Korean manufacturer’s line-up marks the brand’s debut in this fastgrowing segment, particularly in the Kingdom. Kim says that despite Bahrain being one of the company’s smaller Middle East markets in terms of population, it still plays an integral part in the regional sales for Hyundai. “This is thanks to the loyal customer base which we have in the Kingdom,” he says. “When it comes to the Creta, this will be relevant to Bahrain’s market due to its size, versatility and affordability.” Starting at USD13,500 (around BD5,000) — dependent on market and specification – the Creta combines a classy ‘modern premium’ interior and exterior with a robust body structure and impressive performance and handling. On the road this dynamic SUV makes a strong visual statement. “This is an SUV that has been designed for a www.bahrainthismonth.com
new generation of customers who are looking for vehicles which demonstrate forward thinking design and world-class quality at an affordable price,” explains Kim. “The Creta is a true expression of the future of our brand and is perfectly equipped to perform strongly within the highly competitive sub-compact SUV segment. “It is a hi-tech SUV which comes equipped with an audio video navigation system, fiveinch touchscreen audio system, supervision cluster and smart key with push-button start (depending on specification). It also features class-leading safety features and structures, which are set to put it in pole position within the compact SUV segment. All features are subject to availability dependent on market.” When it comes to the rise in popularity of the SUV segment, Kim attributes the compact vehicle segment’s versatility. He says: “They are popular for a combination of reasons: some favour size from a safety point of view, some
have a preference towards versatile vehicles that can offer on- and off-road driving dynamics, while others like the excellent visibility offered due to the higher seating position in SUV vehicles.” Kim believes that Hyundai’s persistent goal to achieve the best results is what sets it apart from competitors. “For us is it less about the numbers and more about retaining customers, growing relationships and developing trust with them so that they keep investing in our products,” he explains. “Our goal is to continue to strengthen our future competitiveness by making bold investments to develop innovative technologies, strengthen our product development capacity, enhance the quality of our customer service and increase our brand value as a leader in the global automobile industry.” January 2016 39
interview
Tasneem Yousif
Presenting at the exhibition
EXPLOSIVELY SUCCESSFUL LIZ O’REILLY
T
An explosive-detecting robot, invented by Bahrain-based Tasneem Yousif, was voted one of the top 10 projects from around the world at a major technology exhibition.
he Robodem is a remote monitoring system which detects explosive gases using web or mobile applications. It was created by Tasneem, along with team members Aysha Khalid, Abeer Ali and Zainab Fardan, as a project in their final year studying computer engineering at the University of Bahrain. On graduation, Tasneem decided to take the invention further and, with a few modifications, she entered it into the Information and Communications Technology competition at the recent GITEX show in Dubai. The contest aims to recognise and promote tomorrow’s technology, helping to foster an environment of innovation at its technology week giving students globally the opportunity to present innovative solutions to industry leaders on a global stage. Judges came from Google, the UAE government’s Department of Presidential Affairs, Microsoft and GITEX. Robodem was one of more than 100 entries, so Tasneem was delighted to be chosen in second place, the only Bahraini invention to make the cut. She says: “The robot works in four ways: smart detecting — using sensors; tracking — 40 January 2016
using GPS; monitoring — using IPB camera; and controlling — using website or mobile app. “The sensor makes an analysis giving exact gas percentages and will trigger notifications to the engineer or user. The robot was initially aimed at the oil and gas industry but could also be used in areas such as commercial premises, petrol stations or even homes — any place that needs to have a safe environment — and the sensors can be adjusted according to usage. “There are many sensors used in homes, hotels and commercial premises but these are either fixed in one place or portable for use by a human operator. Based on research, we created a detection system that can save human life by being remotely monitored and controlled and sending an alert. The robot can infiltrate areas not accessible by humans and can be controlled through Android mobile application or website.” Tasneem has patented the invention and is now hoping to find a sponsor to take it into commercial production. She says: “There was some interest but it was from a Korean company and this is a Bahraini product, so I would like to keep the production here.” For the future she plans to set up her own
Robodem
company introducing further technological innovations and, though hesitant to reveal details, she says there is another project already in the pipeline. She also has her sights set on various other competitions, particularly one run by MIT, which is for start-ups and would certainly help get her projects off the ground. www.bahrainthismonth.com
Rotary gatherings through the years
THE CLUB WITH A CAUSE BEHNAZ SANJANA
T
This philanthropic organisation, which has permeated cultures across the globe, is marking half a century in Bahrain. BTM caught up with avid Rotarian Renuka Ravindran to learn more.
he Rotary Club is a 1.2 million-member organisation which was the brainchild of Chicago attorney Paul P Harris. Formed in 1905, the club takes its name from the group’s early practice of rotating meetings among the offices of each member. Renuka tells us that the principles and objectives of the Rotary are to enrich the community, making it a better place to live. The feeling is that without mutual understanding regardless of race, creed, colour or religion, there can be no lasting peace and happiness, which can only be brought about through a movement with objectives such as Rotary’s. The Kingdom of Bahrain was where the ideology of the Rotary Club first germinated in the Gulf region in 1965, giving birth to the Rotary Club of Manama. This club was an initiative of HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, the then head of the government’s Information Department, and was formed in line with the Rotary International policy of the time. Shaikh Mohammed was also the first president of the club, and he, supported by www.bahrainthismonth.com
Rotarians Joe Josephson and Guy Baldwin, laid down a strong foundation for the group’s future. The first official meeting had an enthusiastic attendance of individuals holding senior positions in companies and government organisations in the Kingdom and had representatives of five different nationalities. Since then, Rotarians on the island continue to form lifelong friendships, exchange ideas and take action for a better tomorrow; their contributions having positive outcomes in the social warp and weft of Bahrain. To celebrate the completion of Rotary’s 50 years on the island, a gala dinner is being organised on January 21, 2016. A commemorative book has also been issued for this special year. A committee comprising members from the various Rotary clubs in Bahrain has been formed to plan and execute this gala, of which Renuka is the chairperson. She elaborates on this landmark year for Rotarians all over Bahrain: “The cornerstone of our organisation is service to the community and bringing about a change for the better.
Keeping this in mind, the Rotary has zeroed in on the elderly section of society and how they can be helped. A multipurpose hall will be created for the use of the elderly to enhance the quality of their lives. This project will be time specified once fully defined, but will operate indefinitely.” With half a century of bringing about a difference and doing good for mankind all over the nation, Rotarians in Bahrain have upheld founding member Paul P Harris’s belief: “Whatever Rotary may mean to us, to the world it will be known by the results it achieves.” Renuka urges one and all to come forth and support this remarkable organisation for all the good that it does saying: “We invite individuals and corporates to join us at our gala dinner with entertainment and a DJ at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa hotel on January 21, 2016. Proceeds from the function will go towards our new project for elderly care.” Tickets are priced at BD30 per person and a table is for 10 people. January 2016 41
bystander
Christo, George, Alex & Samuel
Layla
Calisthenics World Cup The Calisthenics World Cup Bahrain 2015 was held for the first time in the GCC, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Residence and Spa. A contestant shows his skills
Organisersa at the event
HE William Roebuck
Maryam & Zahraa
Fatema & Fahad
HE William Roebuck & Ann Roebuck
Ammar, Ali & Murtaba
Yousif
Araceli, Deakin, HE Simon Martin & Sophie
Charlotte
JLR Showroom Inauguration Euro Motors held a grand opening ceremony to inaugurate its new Jaguar Land Rover showroom in Sitra. The event also witnessed the launch of the Jaguar XF. Bruce Robertson, HE Simon Martin, Khalid Zayani & Nawaf Zayani cut the ribbon
Captain Nasser, Hadi, Jameel & Amjad
Sherif, Nada, Jehan, Hisham, Hannane & Claude
42 January 2015
Az, Gavin & Vania
Mariam & Fareeda
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Beaujolais Nouveau Event
Roselyne & Monique
Gare, Thierry & Avice
John & Jorom
Maryse & Alain
A Beaujolais Nouveau evening featuring French band Jazz in Progress and cuisine by chef Jean-Pierre Renaud, was hosted at the French Embassy’s residence. Chrish, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, Alok, Geert & Pascal
Ophelie, Sirichal, Linda & Leila
Alexandra & Laurence
Malyta, Reema Christian & Sada
Romina & Perwine
HE Hatun Demirer & HE Alberto Vecchi
Chabiou, Meaudre & Florence
Shirin
Lexus Launch
EK Kanoo officially unveiled the all-new Lexus RX during a launch event held at the Lexus showroom. Models show off the new vehicle with company management and VIPs
Khalil Shakid & Mohammed
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Grant & Suaid
Fadhel & Shaheen
Bijan
Randa, Asma & Baisan
January 2015 43
bystander
Alex, Suzy Kanoo & Scot
Geely Showroom Launch International Motor Trading Agency officially launched the new Geely Showroom in Bahrain in the presence of HE Qi Zhenhong, Chinese Ambassador, and Geely’s senior delegates. The opening ceremony
Angelos & Shravanan
Devdas & Mahmood
Ali & Sharma
Kong & Saleh
Eyad
Suzy, Antony & Nadeem
Rumble In The Jungle
Kids were treated to a theatrical adaptation of The Jungle Book at the Cultural Hall, in Bahrain.
The cast entertained young visitors
Joanne and Jude
44 January 2015
Aimee, Gerald and Rachael
Bernie and Lisa
Lucia and Nemi
Emily
www.bahrainthismonth.com
travelfeature
A Slice of Paradise Baie Lazare Beach
Clock Tower, Vic
toria
CHARLIE HOLDING I always thought Belinda Carlisle was full of it when she claimed heaven is a place on Earth. However, after a few glorious days in the Seychelles, I can emphatically confirm it’s true! The Seychelles — an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean off East Africa — is as close to paradise as you can imagine. Idyllic white sand beaches with shimmering turquoise waters and palm trees hanging majestically … that, my friend, is not just a screensaver, it’s a real place. Besides the obvious aesthetic appeal, the warmth of the locals and the sensational food, the real beauty of the country lies in the fact that you can do as much or as little as you like. You want to sit on a beach and do nothing? Go for it. You want to go fishing? No problem. Fancy a nature hike? Sure thing. This is a place that caters to many tastes and, it comes as little surprise then, that this gem of a country is a 46 January 2016
firm favourite with honeymooners. After a quick flight from Bahrain to Abu Dhabi, Etihad whisked a team of journalists, including yours truly, away comfortably and safely to Paradise Island. Pardon the pun, but the journey flew by, thanks to the attentive cabin crew and comfortable seating. From the moment you land at the main island, Mahé, there is no mistaking where you are. The view from the runway is the ocean, which glistens like a thousand diamonds strewn across a blue blanket. With around 92,000 people, it has the smallest population of any independent African state — and I thought Bahrain was a small island! I spent my first few days at the Kempinski Seychelles Resort — located on the south end of Mahé in Baie Lazare. This awe-inspiring and expansive retreat offers a huge variety of facilities and activities. After getting one of the best night’s sleep of my life, I woke up early for a buffet breakfast before trekking up the vast mountains surrounding the resort. When we reached the top, there was a picnic waiting for us, after the yoga session, of course. Now, I should mention that, like many others, I find yoga to be a bit of a stretch, so I decided to sit back and enjoy the
breathtaking view while my travel companions attempted what I’m pretty sure was called a “backwards facing monkey” or something to that effect. The next day, we hit the road and headed towards Victoria, the country’s capital, which is famous for its covered market. Alongside fresh fruit, fish and vegetables, stalls sell
nuts
Gathering coco
www.bahrainthismonth.com
elles Resort
Kempinski Seych
The Olympic-length swimming pool The Kempinski from the air
Mountain top
souvenirs such as clothing, local spices and herbs. However, most impressive is the fact it’s against a stunning backdrop of hills. The focal point of the city centre is a diminutive replica of London’s Big Ben, which was brought to Victoria in 1903 when the Seychelles became a crown colony. When we returned to the hotel, we were greeted with what can only be described as an education in the use of coconuts. Our friendly guide proceeded to show us an unbelievable number of products they can be used for … from hats to toys, cutlery to brooms, this is the fruit that keeps on giving. No trip to the Seychelles would be complete without spending some quality time with The Aldabra giant tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea), from the islands of the Aldabra Atoll. We caught a glimpse of several of them in a special viewing area at the Kempinski, they don’t move much but are still amazing creatures that can live for more than a hundred years. The next day we headed across the island to The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach. This resort is www.bahrainthismonth.com
your gateway to a world filled with lustre, immersed in unique essence. After unpacking, we headed to the beach to meet a boat that was going to take us on a fishing adventure. Seychelles has some of the richest fishing grounds in the world and you do not have to venture far from the shore to break fishing records. During a relaxing afternoon of trawling, we caught a massive kingfish and headed to a cove on a nearby island. Our boat captain and his first mate then proceeded to turn the catch of the day into the most amazing meal I’ve ever eaten. After gutting, descaling and marinating the fish, it was barbequed to perfection … even writing about it makes me drool. Later the same evening, after yet another magnificent meal at one of the H Resort’s eateries, we were treated to a dance show by the staff. Now, prior to this trip, I thought sega was a pioneering games console, famous for a hyperactive hedgehog, but it turns out it is also one of the major music genres of the country. It has origins in the music of slaves on the island
picnic spot
and is usually sung in creole, the French-based language of the Seychelles – truly a spectacular experience. After the show, we headed to one of the country’s nightlife hotspots. With a name like Tequila Boom, you can probably imagine what this club looks like during the weekend. I grew up in West London, a bustling concrete jungle that exemplifies the term rat race. Everyone’s in a rush with sour expressions plastered on their faces as they scurry through the day, working jobs they hate so they can afford things they don’t need. The Seychelles is the antithesis. On my last morning, I woke up early to watch the sunrise on the beach. With my toes firmly dug into the sand and the gently lapping waters of the sea serenading my ears, the world seemed to be so simple. No sooner had I arrived home in Bahrain than I began to miss the island paradise. Fortunately, whenever I miss the Seychelles, all I have to do now is wait for my screensaver to kick in so I can remind myself I was there. January 2016 47
bystander
Four Seasons Tree Lighting The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay hosted a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Jac, Fabiana, Greg, Sherry & Bob
Rifat, Maya, Rifat Jnr, Karam & Reina
Julie & Lia
Gaia & Rana
Noe & Vivien
Raph & Marlon
Hunter & Lauren
Maya & Reina
Noran, Ziad & Ahmed
Zarine & Frieda
Stephanie & Grace
Sawsan & Susana
Sheila & Helen
Giovanna & Gina
Milene & Malika
Peech & Hatem
Subaru in Motion
Motorcity hosted the Subaru in Motion track and family day at Bahrain International Circuit. Some of the team at the start of the event Abdulla & Abdulla
Samanta, AJ, Sara & Christopher
48 January 2015
May, Fahad, Wesal & Shamma
Abbas & Dina
www.bahrainthismonth.com
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travelfeature
An
Omani Escape
ANKITA MAMGAIN From magnificent forts to desert adventures, incredible oases and sublime beaches, there’s much to fall in love with, in the sultanate of surprises.
50 January 2016
When it comes to the Middle East, the image created by the media either involves a landscape of epic excess or a war-torn topography. However, a well guarded secret lies in the heart of the Arabian Gulf that is a treasure trove of tranquillity, innumerable natural wonders and boasts a thriving, multicultural urban centre with a soul that is soaked in centuries of history. The Sultanate of Oman packs in everything and more that you expect from a destination. Only an hour and 30 minutes away by flight from Bahrain, Oman is a fascinating land that has some of the most breathtaking scenery, warm and hospitable people and facilities and activities that suit travellers of all budgets. My first visit to the country was basically a weekend getaway, so there was not enough time to explore this massive country that encompasses several distinct geographical regions. These include Ruus al Jibal, which forms the northern most mountainous frontier, Al Batinah plain, the Oman interior comprising the Al Hajar Mountains and desert fringes; the coast of Muscat-Matrah, the offshore island of Masirah and finally the barren coastline south to Dhofar. My trip was confined to the Muscat-Matrah coastline, however having learned so much about the various ‘wadis’ and trekking trails and misty hill sides of Salalah, I am already planning my next visit.
Muttrah Souq
Magical Muscat My husband and I arrived in Muscat and were immediately taken by the eagerness with which people try to help. They greet you with beaming smiles and make it their own business to solve any problem of yours. I happened to enquire about something at the airport and soon there was a big group gathered around us discussing and debating at great length and trying to sort out our itinerary. Their advice was indeed helpful and, after thanking them, we sat in the taxi and headed towards our hotel. The first thing that strikes you about Muscat is how the modern developers of the city have embraced its history and culture with great sensitivity. The result is a city that is vibrant and modern yet looks rested, confident and wears its heritage with much pride. The Al Hajar Mountains border the city with their glorious silhouette accompanying you all the way to the centre. You do notice signs of globalisation with the occasional golden arches of McDonald’s, famous www.bahrainthismonth.com
Millennium Resort Mussanah
e
Sultan Qaboos Mosqu
international banks and five-star hotels, but the city retains much of the old world, while making room for the new. Once settled and refreshed, we headed out to get something to eat. Shatti Al Qurum is an upscale area that is characterised by its rows of white houses and boutique restaurants and hotels. It’s here that D’arcy’s Kitchen is located; a charming little eatery that serves soul satisfying, home made food, including all-day breakfast, and is an absolute must visit. Stuffed, we headed back to relax a bit before heading out to the Mutrah Souq later in the day.
D’arcy’s Kitchen
Muttrah is the old centre of Muscat and the souq there meets all your senses head-on. This is Muscat at its most magical: an absorbing kaleidoscope of narrow, perfume-laden alleyways packed with colourful little shops. These stores sell anything from articles for everyday use to cosmetics, perfumes, frankincense and ‘bukhoor’, Bedouin jewellery and other exotic paraphernalia. You could spend many hours here, haggling over handicrafts and attempting to make sense of the maze, especially if you venture away from the heavily crowded main stretch into the tangled back alleys. The long, extremely distracting yet magical walk through the souq takes you to the corniche, just across the road. A stroll along this with city lights glistening on the water, an assortment of smells from the bright street-side restaurants, a dreamy breeze and sounds of children playing in the distance, makes you want to stop and admire the www.bahrainthismonth.com
simplistic grandeur of the place that is so comfortable in its own skin. Other places of interest in Muscat include the spectacular Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Bait Al Zubair museum, Royal Opera House, Qurm – Muscat’s only public beach, and you can even take a day tour to the enchanting Forts of Nizwa. One hundred kilometres away from the centre of Muscat is the ‘wilayat’ or district of Musannah. A much quieter and calmer area, it boasts the world-class Millennium Resort, where we were stationed for the two remaining days of our trip. A sprawling property consisting of 234 luxurious rooms with incredible views of the mountains and Gulf of Oman, it has four speciality restaurants, a state-of-the-art spa, four swimming pools, a host of other outdoor attractions and a stunning beach. The waters around the resort are perfect for sailing and perhaps that’s why the venue is also the permanent office of Oman Sail. During our stay, the resort was hosting the 2015 Laser Radial Women’s World Championship, the last major regatta before the 2016 Olympics. Next on the agenda was to visit a wadi and we set out to Bani Khalid, which was about 45km
Millennium Resort Beach
Wadi Bani Khalid
away from the hotel. This beautiful oasis is a delightful respite for the senses in the arid terrain that surrounds it. Wadi, the Arabic word for valley, is also a dried riverbed that collects water during heavy rains, but at Wadi Bani Khalid, as at many wadis in Oman, the green-coloured water flows all year round, making it perfect to visit any time. This was a full-day trip and, to our joy, by the time we returned, a scrumptious dinner was being served at the hotel’s all-day-dining restaurant Mydan. On the last day of the trip we just relaxed on the beach. Although it was mid November, the water was quite balmy and incredibly calm during the day. Suddenly scores of sails appeared and then drifted away on the horizon. The view was absolutely amazing. When the sun began to dip, we headed to Zayna spa for a 60-minute aromatherapy massage that soothed our senses and loosened the knots. Mydan restaurant hosts weekly theme nights and this beautiful day came to an end with some delicious Mexican food. This trip, although short, gave an insightful teaser into all that is quintessentially Oman. Its urban pockets that welcome all cultures and modernity, the pristine wadis, serene beaches, supreme comfort of luxurious hotels no matter how far you may be from the main city and the genuine hospitality of its people. Oman, I look forward to seeing you again soon. January 2016 51
bystander
Kuswai, Karim Jawad & Rama
Faisal Jawad & Christopher Rogers
Costa Coffee Re-opening Christopher Rogers, managing director for Costa, accompanied by HE Simon Martin, British Ambassador, inaugurated the refurbished Costa Coffee store at Seef Mall. Marking the launch
Tom & Ghizem
Christmas Tree Lighting
Nikhil, Mary & Mark
Chinnappa, Ramesh & Amna
52 January 2015
Omar Ali, Rama Krishnan & Abbas Hussain
Len & Janine
Mogan, Esham & Myglen
The K hotel celebrated its annual Christmas tree lighting with guests in the hotel lobby.
Hussain, Faisal Kanoo & Tariq
Hussain, Abdulrahman & Bilal
LP & Lara
GM Volker Mandlowsky with The K Hotel team
Mahmood, Faisal, Ashokan & Jira
Bea, Nitai & Marites
Oohagh & Lisa
Vicky, Grace, Eliena, Kirk & Dale
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bystander
Wante & Ratna
Simone & Marion
Svetlana & Doris
Najda & Intan
Hina & Deepthi
Clarina & Clara
Edralyn & Deepa
Fernanda & Pauline
Farheen & Bharti
Dede & Nunu
Shilpa & Anita
Mel & Angela
Bottega Workshop Bottega Verde hosted a beauty demonstration workshop for ladies at its store in Seef Mall Muharraq. Alona, Bharti & Manal
Romina, Asha & Ratna
Ramee’s Christmas Lighting
The Ramee Grand hosted a Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
Marina, Jamaica & Sawsan
Maria, Tess, ira, Diya, Shreya, Rabab, Shiju, Anjali & Uzzair
54 January 2015
Team members join in the festivities
Kamal, Sakina, Aseel & Elias
Lydia, Geyle, Gavin, Raymond & Shenz
www.bahrainthismonth.com
britishanniversary HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and British Prime Minister David Cameron
A Special Relationship As Bahrain and Britain prepare to celebrate 200 years of trade, commerce and friendship, BTM looks back at the forging of this strong bond, which has not always been so cordial. Bilateral relations between Bahrain and its UK ally date back to the beginning of the 19th century, when Britain was the dominant overseas power in the Gulf region and was attempting to end piracy in the neighbouring maritime trading routes. The House of Khalifa supported Britain and by 1816 there was already a British Political Resident in the Kingdom who made an unofficial agreement with Bahrain’s rulers to stay neutral in its war against Oman. In 1820 Britain signed the General Maritime Treaty with Gulf tribal leaders, thereby recognising the Al Khalifas as Bahrain’s legitimate rulers and in the following years helping to prevent another war with Oman. In 1861 Bahrain’s ruler signed a Perpetual Truce of Peace and Friendship with the British, however its terms were sometimes harsh giving the British extensive power. Later treaties in 1880 and 1892 effectively turned Bahrain into a British protectorate which it remained for almost a century. Unrest brewed in 1911 when a group of www.bahrainthismonth.com
Bahraini merchants demanded restrictions on the British influence in the country but their leaders were arrested and exiled. In 1923, the British introduced administrative reforms and three years later placed the country under the de facto rule of Charles Belgrave who operated as an adviser to the ruler until 1957. He instituted several innovations such as establishment of the country’s first modern school in 1919, the Gulf’s first girls’ school in 1928 and the abolition of slavery in 1937. At the same time, the pearl diving industry was developing rapidly and trade with Britain was strong. The Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco), a subsidiary of the Standard Oil Company of California (Socal), discovered oil in 1931 and production began the following year. This was to bring rapid modernisation to Bahrain. Relations with the United Kingdom became closer, as evidenced by the British Royal Navy moving its entire Middle Eastern command from Bushehr in Iran to Bahrain in 1935. Immediately after the United Kingdom had declared war on Nazi Germany in 1939, the ruler of Bahrain, Shaikh Hamad, sent a telegram to the British King stating: “For nearly a century, the Khalifa shaikhs of Bahrain have been on terms of friendship with the British Government.
“Our sympathies in this war which is now being waged against the evil forces of Nazism are with Great Britain. If we possessed an army, we would offer it to the British Government.” He also sent a check of around USD50,000 to help the British war effort. Two months later, the Shaikh of Bahrain said that all Muslims should support the Allies and the local community started a fund for war charities. In November 1940, a fund was established to buy fighter aircraft for the Royal Air Force. By 1943, enough had been raised to buy 10 fighter planes and Bahrainis also fought in the war. Following the war, relations continued to be cordial, though there was sporadic unrest and discontent with the level of British influence in the Kingdom until Bahraini independence in 1971. Since then, relations have gone from strength to strength and the island’s government is keen to celebrate the 200 years of friendship. A full year of 200 events to mark the anniversary will kick off at a ceremony aboard a British Naval vessel this month and a website is to be launched giving details of what’s in store. Britain will also be strongly represented at the Bahrain International Airshow with a planned exhibit from the Royal Airforce Museum outlining the Kingdom’s aviation history. January 2016 55
britishanniversary The revamped pool area
Chris Woodrow
BRITISH CLUB
All Change at Social Club Changes are underway at the British Club following the appointment of a new executive committee.
56 January 2016
Chairing the new committee is Chris Woodrow, formerly house member and deputy chairman. He replaces Andrew Savage, who has served a total of eight years as chairman and three years previously as house member. In recognition of his service to the club Andrew and his wife Ruth were awarded honorary membership at this year’s annual general meeting. Chris and his team, which includes five new members serving for the first time, will continue the extensive renovation projects, which have been carried out over the last few years. Following the refurbishment of the main restaurant, the swimming pool, outside areas and the introduction of a new coffee shop — The Outside Inn — the committee is now focusing its attention on renovating the Sports Bar and providing a new splash playground with water features for children. Chris believes that the club is going into the new year with momentum and confidence. He explains: “From what I have seen and witnessed personally over the best part of nine years as a family member, throughout the history of the club since it opened way back in 1935, it has never been afraid to evolve and it is important that our facilities, outlets and service are in line with what our members expect, but also move forward with the times “I’m humbled to have been elected by the membership to serve the club as chairman and I’m sure we can look forward to another successful year.” An important aspect of the club is its sports facilities, which currently include two squash courts, an indoor hall for badminton and two multi-purpose courts used for netball and tennis. Meanwhile, Chris and the committee will soon be looking at the possibility of developing the rear multi-purpose court into an enclosed sports arena.
Why join up? With a restaurant, a café, two pubs and a bar with plenty of outdoor seating, there is always somewhere to enjoy yourself at this leading social club. Packed with facilities, the club boasts a climatecontrolled pool, fully-equipped gym — with trainer-led classes — and numerous sporting sections including darts, netball, pool, snooker, football and Tae Kwon Do. The club also prides itself on being family friendly and a dedicated committee member is always on-hand to ensure there are numerous activities available to youngsters from tots to teenagers. Tours are available every day. Call 17 728-245.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Christmas Carols
HE Simon Martin & Sophie hosted Christmas carols at the embassy’s residence. HE Simon Martin join carolers from St Christopher’s School
HE Simon Martin & Sophie
Jeff & Trisha
Gareth, Lauren, Richard & Christian
Megan & Michael
Jemma & Debbie
Tammy & Reece
Alex & Maddie
Pat & Samson
Susan & Adam
Hannah & Saoirse
John & Ron
Emily & Alistair
Cathy & Kate
Diplomat’s Tree Lighting Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa held a Christmas tree lighting and a gingerbread house decoration competition. Siggi & Panos Luca & Maika
Lyle, Johanna & Lizy
58 January 2015
Jason & Xander
Rowena, Vangie, Tony & Franie
Ethan & Paul
Tayson, Stephanie & Kyden
Dasha
Antoney, Sarvei & Constance
Kate, Maryam & Cathy
www.bahrainthismonth.com
britishanniversary COSTA COFFEE
A Hot Cup of Happiness This popular coffee shop chain brings together its London heritage with a signature blend Mocha Italia resulting in a truly unique taste and character. Founded in London by Italian brothers Sergio and Bruno Costa in 1971, Costa has become the UK’s favourite coffee shop chain. It was awarded Best Branded Coffee Shop Chain in the UK and Ireland and Best Branded Coffee Shop Chain in Europe, by Allegra Strategies, for five years running, from 2010 to 2014. The brothers opened the first ever coffee shop in the heart of London and the Costa magic began. With more than 1,900 coffee shops in the UK and upwards of 1,100 overseas, Costa is the fastest growing coffee shop business in the UK and the second largest coffee shop operator in the world. At the heart of the brothers’ dream was a truly smooth, well-rounded, rich tasting blend of coffee called Mocha Italia made with a combination of Arabica and Robusta coffee beans. Costa slow roasts these beans to seal in
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the wonderful aromas and oils before they are tasted by Gennaro Pelliccia, Costa’s ‘Master of Coffee’, who once had his tongue insured for GBP10 million in order to protect his expertly tuned taste buds that safeguard the Mocha Italia coffee blend. They say great beans go to Paradise, and since 1986 that’s where all of Costa’s coffee blending and roasting happens; in Old Paradise Street, Lambeth, London. The coffee shop chain has revamped its outlets in Bahrain; the latest one to sport the new look is the branch in Seef Mall. With its
modern interiors that house a warm and cozy environment, Costa offers its world-famous beverages and a variety of delicious goodies. Call 17 580-139.
January 2016 59
bystander
Farheen & Najia
Francy & Tony
Naty, Cris & Janet
Elite’s Christmas tree lighting Elite Seef Residence & Hotel Bahrain held a Christmas tree lighting party. Mary & Joy
Renila & Matthew
Jinu, Jermih & Joe
Vinny & Aisha
Sebastian & Izabella
Shahab, Lamya & Marya
Karishma, Renzo, Tamara & Natasha
Christmas Market Judith Jawad hosted a Christmas market at the Jawad Dome in Barbar.
Christmas Market
Remy & Luke
Valeriia, Marima, Gabriel
Andreas & Christos
Marieange & Jaimie
Ramili & Ehan
Maryam & Zainab
Luna & Rea
Joya & Ninira
Judith Jawad staged a Christmas Market at Jawad Dome with stalls and family entertainment.
Faisal & Judith Jawad with Santa
Yasmin, Masooma, Adam, Jussain & Jawad
60 January 2015
Sumaya & Bader
Bhavana, Deepty, Haseen & Payaam
Karim Jawad, Julia & Faizal
www.bahrainthismonth.com
britishanniversary BRITISH SCHOOL OF BAHRAIN
In Pursuit of Excellence This renowned institution has set the bar high in the field of education, shaping students into achievers who pass out with flying colours. As the British School of Bahrain (BSB) marches into the second term of its academic year, the experienced and hard-working staff members remain dedicated to providing students with an exceptional academic experience. Looking at last year’s GCSE results, the school is extremely proud of what its students were able to achieve. Sixteen BSB students received results that are top in the world and 10 came out on top in the Kingdom. The school congratulates them on their outstanding achievements in Bahrain as well as globally. BSB also acknowledges the remarkable contribution of its staff in nurturing young minds into talented and well rounded individuals. The school has introduced a number of changes this year. The campus houses a new multipurpose hall that caters to various events and award functions and students have benefited from the new outdoor running track field for PE courses and sporting competitions. The institution’s new website has played a significant role in improving data and processes and will also enable parents to stay up-to-date with their child’s education. BSB Academies have also introduced a number of new courses that will allow students to showcase their talent in music, arts and sports. BSB’s team of staff, board of trustees and partners are all committed to maintaining the school’s high standard of education, which stands second to none. Call 17 610-920.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
January 2016 61
bystander
Sheraton’s Tree Lighting Sheraton Bahrain Hotel held a Christmas tree lighting ceremony for guests. Hotel management and children in festive mode.
Othman & Tomas
Tree lighting Upstairs Downstairs held a Christmas tree lighting party for guests.
Deepa, Cristalyn & Randa
Sandra & Nigel
Hotel choir singing carols.
Jonas, Malcom & Mervick
Maxine, Kevin & Maria
Khalid, JoJo & Lisa
Hamad Ali & Kath
Ahmed & Ahmed
Tom & Carolyn
Peter, Kathy & Elaine
62 January 2015
Joanna & Ian
Neil & Kathleen
Christine & Pauline
Lia & Julie
Serena & Dev
Collin & Bernard
Johann & Daniele
Christine
www.bahrainthismonth.com
NEW MOTORS
START YOUR ENGINES CHARLIE HOLDING
ALSO THIS MONTH: 64 REVAMPED FOR SUCCESS! 66 NEW STANDARD
BTM rounds up the latest deals and offerings from the motoring industry in the Kingdom.
W
elcome to 2016! The New Year marks a fresh start and the beginning of a new chapter in automotive history. As we bid farewell to 2015, petrolheads are gearing up for the sensational selection of models set to launch this year. Motorcity: With showrooms in Sitra, Sanad and Nuwaidrat, this leading dealership promises plenty to look forward to in 2016. Covering a number of brands, there is something for everybody. This year, Motorcity will be launching the BAIC X65, Chery Arrizo 7, Maxus G10, DS5 LS, DS6 and Volvo S90. The BAIC X65 is a compact SUV built by Beijing Auto (BAIC). Inspired by VW Tiguan, the Senova SUV boasts a turbo 2-litre engine. The Chery Arrizo 7 is the Chinese brand’s compact sedan. Under the bonnet, the Arrizo 7 gets a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to five-speed manual gearbox or a CVT automatic. Citroen’s latest offering is essentially a saloon version of the DS5. Like its hatchback sibling, it’s manufactured at the CAPSA joint-venture factory in Shenzen, China, with the aim of giving www.bahrainthismonth.com
the marque a more premium offering. The S90 follows the lead set by the XC90 and shares much with its SUV sibling. It sits on the same Scalable Product Architecture platform and uses the same range of four-cylinder engines. Lexus Bahrain announced the arrival of the new 2016 Lexus GS range. The GS enters 2016 with a bolder design and new luxury finishes, in addition to the introduction of the first-ever rear-wheel drive turbo-charged GS 200t. The Lexus GS continues to feature impressive agility and sporty handling, as well as comfortable ride quality. This is no modest midsize luxury sedan. The engaging performance and amenities make the GS 200t, the GS 350 or GS 450h an excellent choice for delighting enthusiast drivers as well as luxury devotees. Meanwhile, the recent Dubai Motor Show (DIMS) gave motoring enthusiasts across the region a glimpse of what’s to come in 2016 — revealing a number of new models, stylish upgrades and new features. Audi: This German brand premiered three cars in the region for the very first time; namely the RS 3, the new A4 and the R8.
Bentley Motors: The marque unveiled the Bentayga, showing it for the very first time in the region. Its makers say this model combines opulence with everyday usability. However, with a new W12 power train, the Bentayga is also one of the fastest and most powerful SUVs of the moment. BMW: The Bavarian car giant showcased the new 7 Series featuring groundbreaking technologies in the areas of lightweight design, power trains, chassis, operating systems, intelligent connectivity and interior ambience. Land Rover: Visitors to the Land Rover stand at this year’s DIMS witnessed the regional unveiling of the Range Rover SV Autobiography — the most luxurious and powerful series-production Range Rover in the series’ 45-year history. Lincoln: Arriving this year is the elegant Lincoln Continental. The new full-sized sedan integrates a variety of technologies, including a 3.0-litre EcoBoost engine, E-Latch door handles, LED matrix headlamps with laser-assist high beams and SPD Smart Glass tinting sunroof. January 2016 63
newmotors
E.K. KANOO
Revamped for Success! CHARLIE HOLDING There’s no denying the appeal of a stylish SUV that combines comfort, power and performance. The Land Cruiser is Toyota’s flagship SUV and, over the years, it has undergone more changes than a bevy of supermodels at a fashion show. However, one thing remains constant — quality. This SUV is not only built to last, it’s built to impress and, trust me, it does. Following an impressive overhaul both inside and out, the Land Cruiser is back with a vengeance for 2016. With a staggering array of standard features, this model gives you as much bang as possible for your hard-earned buck. Let’s talk about the obvious upgrades to the exterior. This ninth generation model has a more distinctive grille frame that leaves a lasting impression, while chrome-plating has been applied to the top and bottom of the triple horizontal grille bars. The interior of the fully-loaded model I drove was not only surprisingly plush, it was also a good example of the marque’s attention to detail. Everything is clearly laid out and easy to use and, as a bonus, the infotainment system not only looks great, it works well too. Elevating in-vehicle entertainment to a whole new level are the dual 11.6-inch rear display 64 January 2016
screens with a display angle adjustable mechanism (viewing angle can be adjusted between 0-50 degrees) that offers the ultimate multimedia entertainment for rear seat passengers. Kids, don’t worry, you’ll never miss Nemo again! The display panel now boasts a piano black finish and the newly adopted Optitron meter — equipped with a 4.2-inch thin film transistor colour multi-information display and odometer/ trip meter display. One of my favourite features on this model is the cool box, yes, that’s right, you heard me. Never again will you have to sit in traffic sipping tepid water, simply pop your beverage of choice into the unit (housed between the driver and passenger seat) and let it chill. The inside can only be described as cavernous; in fact, it’s more spacious than my first apartment. Thanks to a third row — that can be lowered for added storage space — this is one of the more practical models I’ve driven this year. And, it’s not just practical, it’s capable too. In my experience, many owners of SUVs never really put them to the test or explore the full range of capabilities for fear of damaging them. The Land Cruiser, however, is made for off-roading! The range of advanced active-driving control
features includes the crawl control system and the active traction control system. Other features extend to a multi-terrain monitor used in conjunction with multi-terrain select (MTS) to help drivers confirm their surroundings when driving off-road. Adding to the versatility of the Land Cruiser is the hill-start assist control system and the downhill assist control. In addition, the vehicle features four-wheel active height control and adaptive variable suspension (4-Wheel AHC&AVS), a fully adjustable system that also provides spring rate control to give exceptional performance off-road. Highway driving is an absolute doddle in this vehicle and, despite its formidable size, it handles like a much smaller and lighter model. Under the bonnet of this bulking SUV is a 5.7-litre 32 Valve DOHC with dual VVT-i V8 engine, which produces 362bhp at 5,600rpm and 540Nm of torque at 3,200rpm. For anyone who doesn’t understand what that means, allow me to simplify — this monster-sized SUV moves at lightning speed. The 2016 Land Cruiser is available in 10 exterior colours, including the two new ones — Copper Brown Mica and Dark Blue Mica. This SUV will take you from the heart of the city to the wilds of the desert in style and comfort. Don’t just take my word for it; book a test drive and experience it all for yourself. Call 17 730-730 or visit www.toyota.com.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com
newmotors AL HADDAD MOTORS
Second Generation Sets New Standard
This revamped SUV is quickly gaining a sterling reputation thanks to its impressive list of features and revised design. The Mercedes-Benz GLC has received a drastic overhaul for 2016, with a wide range of additional safety features, a renovated ergonomic shape, improved interior design and reduced fuel consumption. “Our new GLC represents a further, systematic step in the implementation of our successful SUV philosophy,” says Graeme Newport, general manager of Al Haddad Motors. “It is especially exciting for this car to arrive in Bahrain as it is so ideally suited to the weather and terrain.” Under all operating conditions the new midsized SUV excels with the outstanding safety that is a hallmark of the brand, the latest assistance systems and energy efficiency, its makers say. Some of the marked improvements include reduced fuel consumption by up to 19 per cent compared with the previous model. The air body control multi-chamber air suspension, the extended range of dynamic select transmission modes and the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive increase not only the ride comfort, but also the vehicle’s sporty agility. In terms of infotainment, there is a lot worth bragging about. All important vehicle functions 66 January 2016
and settings can be carried out using the central rotary push-button or the touchpad. The required settings or information are visualised in the large, semi-integrated colour media display in the centre of the dashboard. Direct selection buttons next to the light switch module to the left of the steering wheel additionally enable direct activation of the most important assistance systems. The GLC only represents a departure from its predecessor — the G-Class — in terms of appearance, however, on a technical level, it sets new benchmarks in all disciplines. According to designers, the new design idiom combines purity with dynamic sportiness and embodies a new interpretation of modern luxury. Compared to its predecessor, the new model is more spacious for front and rear occupants alike. It also has an extensive package of measures to enhance the GLC’s energy efficiency and performance substantially. The new GLC features the agility control suspension with steel springs and a variable damping system as standard. The GLC is the only model in its segment to offer the option of fitting the chassis with a full-support multichamber air suspension system and electronically controlled, continuously adjustable damping. The vehicle also offers the Dynamic Select handling control system with five driving
programmes as standard. In addition to the Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual settings, which are familiar from other models, the new GLC can also be equipped with the Off-Road Engineering package. Almost all of the driver assistance systems — which are familiar from the C, E and S Class — are available for the new GLC. As part of the Intelligent Drive concept, these systems combine data from various sensor technologies to enhance comfort and safety substantially. Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Crosswind Assist, Headlamp Assist and Attention Assist are on board as standard. The Driving Assistance package Plus provides an even more comprehensive scope of active safety features, comprising a wide range of additional safety programmes. Call 17-785-454. www.bahrainthismonth.com
The new A-Class. Ready for a new generation.
Al Haddad Motors, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel: (+973) 17785454 marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com, www.bahrain.mercedesbenzme.com
bystander
Nightmare Before Christmas
Boho Baha hosted a fantasy-themed party, The Nightmare Before Christmas, at Oliveto.
Candice, Cat & Kate
Kacius, Jamine & Ali
Darren, Leena & Alex
Riecman & Rayana
Adam & Megan
Tariq & Lubna
Carlos & Chantal
Darko & Alma
Khaldoun & Ahmed
Lyndon & Joe
Tanita & Sam
Evan & Randa
Flaka & Christopher
Diyar Event Diyar Al Muharraq held its Al Bareh sales and reservations event at the Diyar Al Muharraq Site.
Khalid & Erand
Khalid & Lulwa
Rashid & Hamad
Zainab & Zaid Ali
68 January 2015
Yousif & Ahmed
Noora & Juhaina
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Business Networking Lunch AmCham hosted a business luncheon powered by Qatar Airways at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.
The Qatar Airways team
Zeina & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran
Qays, Dafar & Zeina
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Yasser, Khalid, Tareq & Shaikh Salman
Nabeel Ajoor, HE William Roebuck & Dr Farzana
Bijan & Jean
Collins
Robert & Fouad
January 2015 69
motoring
EURO MOTORS
High on Style The winter season is the perfect time for a wardrobe overhaul and this exclusive brand is the perfect excuse for it.
70 January 2016
Winter nights are all about dressing up to strut your style. But if you think staying warm and being fashionable cannot mix, the uber-chic MINI lifestyle products are here to prove otherwise. Style up with the smart collection of MINI winter outerwear this season for ultimate comfort as you make the most of the beautiful weather at outdoor parties, exciting rendezvous or breezy mornings with friends and loved ones. Your attire reflects your personality and attitude towards life. For a trendy, urban look, gear up in a MINI men’s racing jacket. Team it with a pair of MINI by Puma Alwyn Mid Men black shoes for a sharp overall look. To give out an easy-going, laid-back vibe, take a stroll down a bustling street in the comfortable yet fashionable MINI reversible jacket from the brand’s collection called You. Me. Throw on the Yours MINI scarf to complete the debonair look. As for the ladies, the Yours ladies’ MINI jacket lets you stay warm and at the same time exude up-to-date elegance. For winter shopping sprees or picnics at the park, the versatile MINI duffle bag comes in handy to carry all your necessary knick-knacks. Grab one of the festive colours; red, silver or gold. Cooler climes shouldn’t put a break on your sporting activities or exercise regime. MINI has all the essential gear for the adventurous, the outdoorsy and the energetic to make the most of the season.
Going for a run? Then zip up in a You. Me. MINI sweat hoodie to stay warm and toasty. There’s nothing better to help you stay motivated than good tunes blasting from the edgy MINI Zipper earplugs and don’t forget to track your pace with the MINI Lifestyle Collection’s MINI watch. The MINI men’s hoodie sweat jacket back and Union Flag decorated MINI sneakers never fail to make a statement, whether you are aiming for sport or recreation. For the smart man who is on the go, time is the most valuable currency you can have. You can’t keep it, but you can definitely spend it, so take the time to appreciate a loved one this winter season with MINI. Track memorable moments with MINI and keep time with the stylish MINI watch series that caters to different tastes. If you prefer something sophisticated, choose the MINI Chorography watch, available in silver or black. For a casual night out, the MINI Speedometer watch or a MINI Weekdays watch is your perfect go-to accessory. www.bahrainthismonth.com
motoringnews&launches
Revolutionary Turbo Hits the Roads
First Motors, the dealer of Hyundai vehicles in Bahrain, has launched its 2016 Veloster Turbo. The 2016 Veloster Turbo derives its power from a 1.6-litre Gamma Turbo GDI engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission showcasing a perfect combination of both manual and automatic transmission.
The model has undergone a face-lift and the breakthrough new gearbox provides quicker shifts and faster accelerations combined with better performance and fuel economy. This mid-sized vehicle with sporty looks features plenty of interior space, offering generous amounts of headroom and legroom too. Safety is a priority and the improved 2016 model combines enhanced safety features including vehicle stability management, rear parking assist system to ensure superior parking visibility, electronic stability control, anti-lock braking system and six air-bags for driver and passenger safety. It comes well-equipped with standard features including leather upholstery, heated front seats, iPod, USB, AUX input jacks, Bluetooth with smartphone connectivity and voice recognition, navigation and rear view camera. Call 17 121-121.
A Return to Global Motorsport Jaguar will enter the third season of the FIA Formula E Championship as a manufacturer with its own team. FIA Formula E is the world’s first global single-seater championship for electric powered cars and offers a unique opportunity for Jaguar Land Rover to further the development of future EV powertrains including motor and battery technology. Nick Rogers, group engineering director for Jaguar Land Rover, says: “I am proud to announce Jaguar’s return to racing with an entry into the innovative FIA Formula E championship. Electric vehicles will absolutely play a role in Jaguar Land Rover’s future product portfolio and Formula E will give us a unique opportunity to further our development of electrification technologies. The Championship will enable us to engineer and test our
www.bahrainthismonth.com
advanced technologies under extreme performance conditions. “ It is my belief that over the next five years we will see more changes in the automotive world than in the last three decades. The future is about being more connected and more sustainable; electrification and lightweight technologies are becoming more important than ever as urbanisation continues to increase. Formula E has recognised and reacted to these trends and the championship’s exciting and pioneering approach is the perfect fit for our brand. “ Jaguar Land Rover employs over 8,000 engineers and is the UK’s largest investor in research and development across any business sector. Jaguar’s Formula E team will be able to draw upon this industry leading resource with Jaguar Land Rover engineers working closely with the race operations team.
Top Safety Rating The new Infiniti Q30 has received the maximum fivestar rating by independent vehicle safety organisation, Euro NCAP. The Euro NCAP scoring system considers various aspects of vehicle safety, such as occupant protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and safety assist which is the availability and effectiveness of safety systems and driver aids. As well as achieving the maximum five stars, the Infiniti Q30 gained top scores in each of these four testing categories. Occupant protection scored highly in the rigorous test programme with an 84 per cent rating for adult safety. As well as a driver knee airbag, the Q30 has driver, passenger, front hip-thorax side and front-torear curtain airbags. Designed and engineered to offer the best possible levels of protection for children, an automated system in the front passenger seat will turn off the front passenger airbag when someone fits a rearward facing child seat. For pedestrian protection, the Q30 scored 91 per cent, a score, which is determined from tests to the most important vehicle front-end structures, such as the bonnet and windshield, the bonnet leading edge and the bumper. Call 17 732-732. January 2016 71
bystander
Create Your Taste Event
McDonald’s hosted a special event allowing customers to choose their toppings and patties to launch its Create Your Taste campaign. The McDonald’s team at the launch
Yousif & Jaffar
Arif & Majid
Kooheji Dinner
Shadi
Khalid Al Kooheji
Waleed Al Kooheji
Yousif Al Kooheji
Ahmed Al Kooheji
Omer
Kooheji Jewellery hosted its annual dinner for employees and special guests at Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort.
Mohammed, Mustafa, Abdulla, Abdulrahim & Majid
Javid, Muktar & Saif
72 January 2015
Adel Fakhro, Abdulla Adel Fakhro, Yousif Abdulghani, Ahmad Jaser
Mohammed & Azzam
Noor & Basharat
Nasser & Habib
www.bahrainthismonth.com
downtime gadgets LULU HYPERMARKET
Tech Update
Get involved with Lulu Hypermarket’s great gadget offerings this month.
Samsung Watch Gear S2 Sport The Gear S2 is so close to being the best smartwatch you can buy. It has an awesome new navigation method, handles notifications much better than any previous Samsung Gear and looks pretty good to boot.
Google - Chromecast Just connect to your HDTV's HDMI interface and your home Wi-Fi network to get started. You can stream your favourite apps from your compatible phone, tablet or laptop, plus use your phone as a remote to search, play and pause content.
Apple iPhone 6s Plus 16GB The moment you use iPhone 6s Plus, you know you’ve never felt anything like it. With just a single press, 3D Touch lets you do more than ever before. Live Photos bring your memories to life in a powerfully vivid way.
Apple TV MediaPlayerMGY52 32GB/64GB It comes in two models with two different flash storage tiers: 32GB and 64GB. That's because the new Apple TV also comes with an App Store and a way to download software, including games.
Toshiba HDD Connect II HDTC Gold 3TB Access your files anywhere and from any device. The new Canvio Connect II is a smart storage solution that will soon become your favourite data companion. Not only do you get up to 2TB of portable storage, the Canvio Connect II can also turn your PC into your own personal cloud server.
Lulu Hypermarket can be found at Dana Mall, Hidd, Ramli Mall and East Riffa www.bahrainthismonth.com
January 2016 73
gadgets BTM brings you the latest gadgets to push your technological buttons.
The Right Cup Although water is an essential part of life, it does taste a little boring, which makes it a chore to get through eight glasses a day. The Right Cup uses the fact that your sense of taste is directly linked to your sense of smell. This plastic cup has been infused with fruit flavours so your tongue get hints of sweetness while your nose takes in the aroma of whichever flavour you have picked out.
The Magic Tap
Sena 10S
Notti Smart Mood Light
This is a communication device for motorcyclists and cyclists. It features Bluetooth 4.1 technology for increased clarity and reliability, enhanced HD-quality audio, remote and smartphone app compatibility, as well as increased intercom distance for up to 1.6km and FM radio.
This is a geometric light that can act as a normal lamp, but it also alerts you when you’re getting a text, calendar alerts, calls, emails, social media updates and more. It has more than 16 million LED colour options too.
74 January 2016
The Magic Tap is a system that you can put into any large liquid container and pump out your drink without having to pick up and pour the whole thing. You only need to take the bottle cap off, submerge the pump in the liquid and touch the trigger to start the flow. It is powered by two AA batteries and uses a rubber seal to keep the contents fresh.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Braven Fuse Bluetooth Portable Audio Mixer Neyya Smart Ring This ring gives you control over your devices with a simple tap and swipe. Options include call tracking, which makes the ring vibrate when you receive a call or text. It also acts as a pedometer to make sure you meet your fitness goals and can control your music playlists.
Fuse will link up to a pair of audio sources including smartphones and two speakers via Bluetooth. To place a personal spin to any track, Fuse boasts of an array of onboard controls, including individual source volume; low, mid, and high tuners for each audio source; source level equaliser; headphone out switch to listen between audio sources and a cross fader for music mash-up.
Micaton Magnetic Screw Driver Perfect for DIY fans, this is a set of screw holder devices that use magnets and rubber that you attach to the end of your bit so that the screw will stay steady in place. These are independent, interchangeable, and colour-coded for various sizes.
Mighty Purse This is a clutch-style purse that features an integrated rechargeable battery with a host of adapters. The battery is good for two full charges of a smartphone, or you can use it to provide a boost to tablets. The internal zip compartment adds to its practical use, which is accompanied by a pair of card slots.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
IllumiBowl Toilet Night Light Driver This is a motion-activated toilet light that can be set to stay on a single colour, or rotate through eight hue options. It is a little clip that attaches under the seat and projects light into the toilet bowl so you can see where you’re aiming in the dark.
January 2016 75
music
Foo Fighters – Saint Cecilia Verdict: A reassuring
refresher of the iconic band’s talents.
What’s the story?
Saint Cecilia is the result of Dave Grohl’s latest musical idea: to see if the Foos could make a recording over the course of 11 days while holed up in an Austin, Texas hotel named after the patron saint of musicians. To celebrate, they released this EP for free as a ‘thank you’ to fans before announcing a break from touring and as a way to ask people to donate money to the victims of the recent terrorist attacks in Paris.
Worth a listen?
Unsurprisingly from this band (who have never put out a bad album) they succeed in creating five tracks that are as strong and focused as any on their last full release, Sonic Highways.
The songs, some of which date back decades (such as The Neverending Sigh which is 20 years old), sound surprisingly consistent considering the recording sessions were rushed. The title track features more classic-rock licks, such as
sci-fi synths and boogie riffs, while Sean is more of a traditional guitar assault. Iron Rooster is a nice change of pace with its jazzy bridge and focus on the softer side of the band’s repertoire, showing that the Foos can roll as well as rock as well as they ever did.
Shorts
Coldplay – A Head Full of Dreams
Adele – 25
Kylie Minogue – Christmas
Usually renowned for depressing, miserable melodies, A Head Full of Dreams is a surprisingly bright album that features soaring riffs, happy dance beats and Chris Martin singing with wide-eyed positivity. They rope in some friends along the way, such as incorporating Beyoncé’s backing vocals and Noel Gallagher’s guitar on the optimistic Up&Up. Coldplay hinted that this could be their last album, and if so, they’re going out on a sustained positive note that has been all too absent throughout their career.
Four years on from 21, the sound of a woman soldiering through a heartbreaking romance that earned 30 million sales, the world’s most popular female artist returns with her long awaited followup. 25 finds her lamenting and celebrating the past in equal measure. The album’s nostalgic mood is the perfect fit for an artist who reaches back decades for her influences, even as her all-or-nothing urgency feels utterly modern. There’s an eclectic mix of styles and genres, such as the organ-heavy and soulful River Lea, the steeped in gospel Water Under the Bridge, sombre songs, uplifting songs, and many more. It’s all there, and she carries every note perfectly with a voice far beyond her years.
Australia’s pint-sized pop princess returns for her first festive album. It’s as warm and fuzzy as you’d expect, with holiday classics and original material alike pushed through the disco blender and overlaid with heavilyproduced vocals. The music is solid though – particularly in the duets with various stars from eras both past and present such as Frank Sinatra and Iggy Pop – and Minogue can still muster the enthusiasm and energy of her youth despite closing on half a century.
76 January 2016
www.bahrainthismonth.com
games
Games review Game: Star Wars: Battlefront Verdict: An authentic experience heavy in style but light on substance Rating: ***
What is it?
Galactic forces clash in this reboot of the hugely popular gaming franchise. Fight in recreations of the epic Star Wars battles on iconic planets and rise through the ranks playing as the heroic Rebellion or the evil Galactic Empire. Whether fighting through blaster-wielding Stormtroopers or piloting your favourite Star Wars combat vehicles, Star Wars Battlefront puts you at the centre of the galactic conflict.
Gameplay
Battlefront can toggle between either firstperson or third-person view on the fly and the gunplay is as satisfying as you’d expect from the creators of the Battlefield games. Players have the choice of waging war on iconic planets from the Star Wars universe, such as Endor, Hoth and Tatooine, which are
Just Cause 3
Set in the tranquil Mediterranean island republic of Medici, a land crumbling under the brutal rule of General Di Ravello, you once again assume control of hero Rico Rodriguez – a man on a mission to liberate his homeland and the people of Medici by any means necessary. With over 400 square miles of utter freedom from sky to seabed and a massive arsenal of weaponry, gadgets and vehicles, prepare to unleash chaos in the most creative and explosive ways you can dream up. www.bahrainthismonth.com
large and expansive but quickly become familiar. More planets and more game modes would have been welcome as the game becomes repetitive far quicker than it should. Similarly, you can navigate the maps with a variety of air- and land-based vehicles such as AT-ATs, X-Wings and speeder bikes, but the famous space battles from games of the past are sadly missing. It should be noted that the majority of the game is online-only (with matches supporting up to 40 players), with an offline co-op mode available too. Disappointingly though, there is no campaign mode.
Resident Evil Zero HD
Graphics
Unlike the gameplay, there is nothing to fault here. The game looks amazing, with the snowy fields of Hoth and the desert dunes of Tatooine instantly giving an authentic vibe to proceedings. Each planet has its distinct identity and evokes your favourite memories from the movies. The frame rate rarely lags, even with a full complement of players, and the guns and accessories have that traditional Star Wars look. The sound design is similarly fantastic, with every blast, beep and lightsaber hum ripped straight from the series soundtrack.
Resident Evil Zero HD is a visually-upgraded take on the classic that tells the beginning of this famous franchise. In the mountains surrounding Raccoon City lurks something vile and sinister. Sent in to investigate a series of awful murders, S.T.A.R.S Bravo Team gets into the middle of it all when their helicopter crashes. Starring Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen, the game allows you to explore new areas of Raccoon City in order to uncover the secrets of the T-Virus.
Lego Marvel’s Avengers
The first console videogame featuring characters and storylines from the blockbuster Avengers film series. You can play as superheroes such as Iron Man, Hulk, Thor and Captain America as they fight to save humanity from various threats. There are more than 200 playable characters drawn from both the cinematic and comic universes. January 2016 77
websites
bystander
VERDICT: Clean and userfriendly option for frequent web browsers.
Family Day
British School of Bahrain held a fun International Family Fair with stalls and games at its campus.
Site: www.readability.com/ Rating:****
Parents and teachers enjoyed the event
What is it?
Readability is a free website application which aims to deliver a convenient reading experience. It turns virtually any webpage into a clean, comfortable reading view by narrowing columns, dimming garish background colours and minimising pages to avoid clutter. Rina & Diane
Tryphena, Lana & Yelda
The Good
It works with almost every website and it also lets you sync articles for reading later as you surf around the web. Readability works on your web browser, iPhone, iPad and Android smartphone, giving you the flexibility to read anytime, anywhere in its signature streamlined style.
The Bad Willemijw, Dina & Tamara
Dr Pasquale, Valentina & Leo
It’s rare, but occasionally Readability doesn’t quite read a page correctly (or at all), and its attempts to make a page easy to read end up grotesquely altering the page and making it impossible to read properly. It’s a pain to go into the options and disable it for that specific page when this happens.
www.stackoverflow.com/
Educational Event Tamkeen held the Mashroo 3i induction ceremony at the Arab Open University. Huda & Zahra
Sarah, Leyla & Shaima
This is a great website for those learning to programme or those who have already dabbled and are trying to improve their skills. If you’re stuck or failing to understand a concept, ask StackOverflow. Between the searchable archive and an active community of experts, StackOverflow is a fantastic question-and-answer resource for beginning and established programmers alike. It’s also free and no registration is required.
www.snopes.com/info/whatsnew.asp Zahra, Fatema & Zainab
Hassan & Ali
78 January 2016
Aqeela & Sawsan
Mohamed Ahmdy & Amal Koheeji
This is a really fun and creative website that will be the constant annoyance of your friends and family when they try and tell you hokey stories or pass on scaremongering emails. Snopes is a website dedicated to hunting down the facts behind urban legends, chain letters and misconceptions and is a reliable source for debunking the scams and untruths while confirming the quirkier ones. www.bahrainthismonth.com
apps
Essential Apps BTM brings you the low-down on the latest and greatest apps on the market.
What is it?
If you’re someone who uses a single password across all your accounts, you could be easily hacked by a determined individual. Dashlane is a password manager that makes generating and storing passwords a breeze. Once you start using the app, the only password you need to remember is the master password that secures Dashlane itself. Since this protects all your other login credentials you need to make it a strong one.
The Good:
It’s simple to use and one of the most secure out there. The app deletes saved passwords from less-secure storage and turns off your browser’s password capture. Instead, it takes a record of the password you entered and stores it securely in a category of your choosing. When you revisit the site, Dashlane will fill in the saved credentials.
App: Dashlane Rating:*****
The Bad:
Verdict: An easy way to create and manage strong passwords and other personal information on your smartphone.
App: Pocket Casts
This app is perfect for people that are serious about podcasts. Pocket Casts allows you to search for your favourite podcasts and store them in custom lists to automatically sort. Pocket Casts offers syncing across multiple devices and has an option to delete shows once they’re finished, so you are always up-to-date with what you have and haven’t listened to. www.bahrainthismonth.com
It’s a little expensive at BD4 per month. Also, it doesn’t recognise some of the more obscure website login pages and if you have shared accounts (such as bank accounts), you have to go through a complicated process to share just specific passwords with your spouse.
App: Duolingo
Duolingo is one of the best free language-learning apps on the market. It’s extremely well designed for on-the-go learning thanks to short lessons and a simple user interface. Thirteen languages are included and it is fully crowd-sourced, so the language database improves constantly as contributors add to it. January 2016 79
movies
bystander
VERDICT:
Knockout blow from the undisputed champ.
Film Screening Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain hosted a reception by its poolside followed by a screening of the film Spectre. Bernaditta & Juliana
Veronika & Diane
Jayant
Film: Creed Rating: ***** Directed by: Ryan Coogler Starring: Michael B Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson
The Plot:
Kanika, Lorraine & Gopika
Maryam & Yahya
Adonis Creed (Jordan) is the result of an extramarital affair by his famous heavyweight champion father Apollo, who passed away during the events of Rocky IV.Adonis has spent his youth bouncing between foster homes and juvenile detention centres without a purpose and it’s not until Apollo’s widow tracks him down and takes him in as her own son that he decides to follow in his father’s footsteps. He seeks out Rocky Balboa (Stallone) to train him for an upcoming bout and they both come to realise that they are in for the biggest fight of their lives, in vastly different ways.
Worth Watching? Bill & Fadi
Khulood, Shahina & Debbie
Stallone’s decision to give up directorial duties is inspired as he delivers his strongest acting performance in many years, and Johnson looks like he’s spent the last year in a gym to get ripped for the part of Adonis. The scenes between the two are fantastic as they get to know each other and overcome their personal and professional struggles. Most importantly, the boxing scenes are superb too, particularly the first of the movie’s two main fights. It’s an occasion to behold as the camera swirls around the two combatants in a single take, inviting the audience as a third participant in the ring.
The Kung Fu Panda 3
Next Reopening Next store was reopened at Seef Mall in the presence of management and staff. Cutting the ribbon
Hussain, Sherry & Hassan
80 January 2016
Lyn, Chelsie & Celine
When Po’s (Jack Black) longlost panda father suddenly reappears, the reunited duo travels to a secret panda paradise to meet scores of hilarious new characters. But when the supernatural villain Kai (J K Simmons) begins to sweep across China defeating all the kung fu masters, Po must do the impossible – learn to train a village full of his funloving, clumsy brethren to become the ultimate band of kung fu pandas.
The Revenant
Inspired by true events, The Revenant tells of one man’s epic adventure of survival and the extraordinary power of the human spirit. In an expedition of the uncharted American wilderness, legendary explorer Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio) is brutally mauled by a bear and left for dead by members of his own hunting team. In a quest to survive, Glass endures unimaginable grief as well as the betrayal of his confidant John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy). Guided by sheer will and the love of his family, Glass must navigate a vicious winter in a relentless pursuit to live and find redemption. www.bahrainthismonth.com
DINING
TOP OF THE WORLD ANKITA MAMGAIN
ALSO THIS MONTH: 82 ITALIAN FLAVOURS 84 ZESTY ZONE
The next best thing to eating good food, is talking about it. However this restaurant is guaranteed to leave you speechless.
I
t’s hard not to get excited about dining at re Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. The Austrian born, American super-star chef with a German name, is expanding his armada of fine dining eateries across the world and Bahrain now boasts three of them, including the Blue Moon Lounge and the uber posh steakhouse, CUT. After a ride in the elevator to the 50th floor we arrived at the restaurant and to, perhaps, the most spectacular views of a gloriously lit Manama. The decor is top notch, contemporary, elegantly rich and cosy. Every effort has been made to lure you towards the inner, cushier looking booths, but you will find yourself naturally gravitating towards a table next to the floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Soaking in the ambience, we were soon greeted by James Moon, the assistant restaurant director. He’s an instant friend and, like any good one, advises well. He inquired whether we would like to try something from the Wolfgang Puck cocktail programme and I’m glad we went for it. I was presented with a www.bahrainthismonth.com
citrusy, jasmine-infused beverage called Crouching Tiger which was fiercely refreshing and delicious. My dining companion, who ended up taking pictures of his drink for the next three to four minutes, was trying, Rolling Fog Over Mount Fuji. Now, you must be seriously in love with your work if you name even the beverages so poetically. Along with these came spicy tuna tartare in sesame miso cones, chili aioli and shaved bonito, a remarkable dish that awakens your taste buds with a delightful mix of textures and flavours. This was a terrific teaser to what was to follow. We sampled an assortment of lobster and shrimp spring rolls, chili Dan Dan chicken dumplings, XO shrimp dumplings, steamed hokkaido scallop, tiger prawn dumpling and Maryland-style crab cakes for starters. My main course was Hong Kong-style wild salmon steamed with ginger and green onion and served with a black bean and soy sauce. My partner savoured the vegetable Assam curry with lobster and crab XO fried rice and house-made Shanghai-style noodles. I could go on-and-on about details of the textural notes and delicate layers of taste and
flavours. For a special dining experience it doesn’t get any better. Dimsums were little bundles of heaven, crab cakes burst with exquisite flavours, the salmon was sublime and the Assam vegetable curry, something that I’ve never had before, was a lovely surprise and uncannily nostalgic. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, a Radiohead song started playing. “That’s the thing with Wolfgang; you know you’re dining in one of his restaurants with the music he chooses to play,” said James. The decadent meal was rounded off with the restaurant’s rendition of Halo Halo, pumpkin pie and chocolate caramel fondant. Wolfgang Puck and Brian Becher, the restaurant’s executive chef, deliver a steamy pot-boiler with a noir soul that impresses on all levels. And you will not spend a sizeable portion of your salary on one meal here, as rumoured. In spite of its extremely posh setting the restaurant exudes a grounded and humble attitude that’s akin to visiting an aunt, who’s excited to feed you. With a fresh menu each day, you know what you are in for but not quite. And who doesn’t like a good surprise? January 2016 81
dining OLIVETO
Fresh Italian Flavours intermingling with cultures, ingredients and cooking practices around the world, giving rise to a gastronomy that bears little resemblance to what it once was. He says: “The main focus of the new menu is to offer the authentic flavours of Italian food. To uncover traditional tastes, we have to go back to our roots.” At Oliveto, Giuseppe has tried to preserve the originality of the dishes and says the new menu — released this month — features a number of surprises. Expect to see a fresh selection of appetisers, homemade pasta and main course dishes, with seasonal produce and ingredients. Some of the dishes to look forward to include poached veal with crispy capers, tuna sauce and fresh basil, which will be served hot, and the handmade gnocchi with saffron and seafood. Meanwhile, the restaurant will also host a week-long, Tuscany festival, dedicated to the picturesque landscape of the region and the agrarian style cooking that bursts with fresh flavours. Effortless elegance meets culinary finesse. “Simplicity is ironically one of the most difficult pursuits,” says Giuseppe. “However, at Oliveto, we are proud to achieve it in the most remarkable way, which is why our food speaks for itself and has our loyal guests coming back for more.”
This restaurant is a firm favourite with foodies on the island and it is aiming to entice visitors with its revamped menu. Located in Adliya’s Block 338, Oliveto is a popular venue where effortless elegance meets culinary finesse. Its director and executive master chef, Giuseppe Zanotti, has been pivotal in elevating the restaurant to a truly world class standard, much to the delight of its discerning guests. He, along with newly appointed chef de cuisine Gianmaria le Mura, begins the New Year with a number of fresh additions to the menu that further demonstrate the kitchen team’s relentless passion to push the boundaries of fine Italian cuisine. Oliveto’s food is well complimented by its plush environs. The impressively sized main dining area boasts a chic ambience and floorto-ceiling windows, overlooking the spectacular terrace outside. Given the weather this time of year, the terrace is a popular choice for guests who want to dine with serene views of a central pool and hundred-year-old olive trees. The venue offers a modern, spacious and comfortable approach to fine dining, which 82 January 2016
Call 17 716-747.
also extends to the more relaxed smoking dining lounge. The Kingdom has no shortage of chic Italian eateries, but what sets Oliveto apart is its unique brand of haute cuisine, which is sophisticated yet embraces the simple elegance of fresh Italian flavours. Giuseppe believes that today’s popular Italian cuisine is the end result of decades of www.bahrainthismonth.com
Effortless elegance meets culinary finesse.
For reservations call +973 17716747 Villa No. 1157, Road No. 3884, Block 338, Adliya, Kingdom of Bahrain
dining
LUMEE STREE CAFÉ
The Zesty Zone A year old and still as fresh as lime; this vibrant café celebrates the milestone by offering a number of new surprises.
84 January 2016
Home to some of the most delectable Middle Eastern flavours, Lumee Street Café celebrates its first-year anniversary this month by introducing a host of new offerings for its loyal customers. These include a variety of new breakfast, lunch and dinner choices added to the menu and the muchanticipated delivery service set to launch in January. Located in Al A’ali mall, this quirky café-cum-deli is named after the Bahraini slang for lemons and limes and is popular for its flavour-packed Middle Eastern cuisine. From classic hummous and Bahraini tikka to unique dishes such as spicy mattai salad and quinoa taboule, Lumee Street Café serves a mix of traditional food with a contemporary twist. The new menu has been carefully crafted with the help of the restaurant’s experienced head chef, Simon Fernandez. “It’s been an exceptional experience to be part of Lumee Street Café and watch it grow into one of Bahrain’s favourite restaurants,” he says. “It’s such a privilege to celebrate this success with our customers by adding even more, healthier options and crafting age-old recipes with a unique slant.” Starting with the most important meal of the day, Lumee serves breakfast from 8.30am to noon. The breakfast menu includes fresh oven-baked fatayer with new flavourful fillings such as qishta glazed with honey and multigrain fatayer filled with ricotta cheese and spinach. The restaurant also offers a variety of tasty egg dishes such as baked cheese and tomato omelette and spicy fried eggs. For a more classic Middle Eastern breakfast, customers can choose
refreshing dishes like labnah with za’atar, balaleet and Lumee’s signature homemade baked beans. Lunch includes savoury mezze such as fresh potato chaps filled with vegetable or minced lamb with smoked tomato dip and grilled vine leaf parcels. You can also choose from any of the all-day menu selections such as street grills and bakhsam — open-faced sandwiches with root vegetables crisps. From 6.30pm onwards, sample dishes such as duck shawarma, black lime baby chicken or juicy beef short ribs. For healthier choices, Lumee has prepared a new line of fresh cold-pressed juices named after their rich colours. The all-pure red, green, purple, orange and white fusions are carefully blended to preserve nutrients and satisfy taste buds. The restaurant also gives you the option to opt for whole-grain bread and brown rice as sides. In addition, Lumee is introducing a new selection of desserts such as crispy balaleet domes, brownie and date sundaes and honey pudding with candied almonds. The restaurant’s special first-year anniversary celebrations don’t stop there. You can now enjoy Lumee’s eclectic flavours in the comfort of your own home or office with the new delivery service. “We wanted to start Lumee’s second year by thanking our customers and making sure they can enjoy Lumee’s flavourful food even when they can’t make it to the restaurant and we’re really excited to start taking orders from Mid-January,” says Hamad Rashed, director, Al Abraaj Restaurants Group. Call 17 333-747 and 17 434-300 (delivery). www.bahrainthismonth.com
www.lumeestreet.com lumeestreet lumeestreetbh lumeestreet
NEW DISHES & HOME DELIVERY. ENJOY A FRESH START TO THE YEAR AT LUMEE. In celebration of our first anniversary, we are introducing new additions to Lumee. We have extended our menu so you can now enjoy our delicious dishes from breakfast right through to dinner time. And starting mid-January, we will also deliver right to your door anywhere in Seef. To bring the Lumee experience to your home or office, simply dial
17434300
bystander
Mohammed Jaffar & Sathar
I Love Bahrain Lulu Hypermarket inaugurated a week-long festival called I Love Bahrain, to celebrate Bahrain National Day. HE Nader Khalil Almoayyed, Undersecretary for Commerce Affairs, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, inaugurated the event in the presence of Lulu’s management and other dignitaries, at the Lulu Hypermarket, Riffa. Cutting a cake to launch the festival
Farooq, Vinith & Dais
Kalim & John
Ashraf Ali, Mohammed Aqeel & Salim
Majeed, Salam & Shahid
Jina & Liza
Anniversary Celebrations
Toni & Guy salon celebrated its fourth anniversary at its store in Seef Mall.
Salon staff and management cut the cake
Rahul & Ahsan
86 January 2015
Deepa, Vinny & Harish
Maha & Joana
A demonstration in progress
Florencia
www.bahrainthismonth.com
dining MERCURE GRAND HOTEL SEEF
A Turkish Escapade This hotel takes you to the world of the Ottomans for an evening full of rich Turkish tradition. The ever-popular Turkish Festival continues this month, promising visitors a peek into traditional Turkish culture. The event, which takes place at the Mercure Grand Hotel Seef will include folk performances, culinary delights and much more. Touted to be one of the most distinctive in the world, Turkish culture has had an impact on life from China to Vienna and from the realms of Russia to North Africa for many centuries. The festival — that runs until January 14 — is staged at Neyran, Mercure Grand Hotel Seef’s signature restaurant. Guests and visitors can partake in Turkish festivities from 8pm until midnight. Neyran is the perfect platform for the festival, with its charmingly rustic décor that lends it the feel of an idyllic bistro somewhere in the heart of the Mediterranean. The hotel invites patrons to discover the allure of Turkey, its vivid ethnicity, great history, heritage and hospitality through this dazzling festival. There will be a wide array of dishes prepared by well-known chefs specially flown in from Istanbul. Guests can look forward to a fusion of central Asian, Caucasian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Balkan cuisine. To keep guests entertained, the festival features various live shows as well as programmes of art and music performed by Turkish artists. “I urge members of the community to grab this opportunity and discover the various regions of Turkey without leaving Bahrain,” says Ahmed Hishma, director of sales and marketing at Mercure Seef. Run by French multinational corporation Accor Hotels, Mercure Hotels stands by the slogan ‘In Harmony with People and Places’. The Mercure Grand Hotel Seef is an all-suite hotel ideally located in the Seef district, the heart of Manama and the business and shopping centre of the Kingdom, ideal for business and leisure travellers alike.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
January 2016 87
bystander
Julia & Sarita
George
Ashraf & Anna
Georgie
Ahmed & Nasser
Khalid
Anniversary Celebration Hill & Knowlton celebrated its 40th anniversary with a lunch reception held at BiCE restaurant. Anwar Abdulrahman, Khamis Muqla, Shona, HE Nabil Al Hamer, Ronnie Middleton
Fatema, Maheen & Fatema
Mohammed & Hassan
Staff Party Al Zain Jewellery held its annual staff party at the ART Rotana Hotel in Amwaj. Aline Achkar Layyous, Samar al Gosaibi, Nabeel Al Zain, Noora Al Zain, Mahmoud Jannoun, Faisal Al Zain, Fayqa Al Basri & Hisham Taher
Management and staff celebrate
Maryam
BUMUN Conference The 11th Bahrain Universities Model United Nations (BUMUN) conference 2015, took place at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa under the patronage of HRH Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth & Sports. Dignitaries at the event
88 January 2015
Marwa
www.bahrainthismonth.com
dining
ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL
Irresistibly Italian One of the Kingdom’s most loved casual-dining Italian restaurants has a brand new look, promising a better experience than ever.
90 January 2016
Food lovers all over the world have embraced the comforting taste of Italy’s staple preparations like spaghetti Bolognese, pizzas and tiramisu. An integral part of global culinary culture, the cuisine is perhaps one of the most appreciated in the world. Romano’s Macaroni Grill (RMG) offers diners the true taste of casual trattoria-style Italian food. After a brief break, the restaurant is back, offering its signature brand of cuisine in a refreshing new environment. “We have always tried to innovate and improvise the menu and the look of the restaurant to offer something new to our loyal and discerning fans,” says Haseen Chhaya, group marketing manager, Jawad Business Group. Inspired by the Italian trattoria cuisine and culture, the restaurant offers fast and friendly service and an extensive menu of items made with fresh produce. Warm distinctive touches, a bustling open kitchen and flavours that linger on the palate and stay in the memory, all make sure that you will visit again. Italians believe in simplicity, so some of the most beloved dishes at RMG comprise of just a few simple ingredients, which are carefully selected, cooked with love and served in style. Expect to see some of the classics, which continue to delight in addition to several new dishes.
The menu includes pasta dishes, pizzas, grilled platters and salads along with a number of classic preparations, presented with a twist. Here is a selection that is bursting with flavour and brings you the best of what Italian cuisine has to offer. You can even start the evening with one of the restaurant’s delicious mocktails and end on a sweet note, with RMG’s decadent desserts such as tiramisu. Romano’s Macaroni Grill is located in Juffair and at Bahrain International Airport. The restaurants open from 11am-12.30am every day, with options of dine-in and take-away available for customers. Call 17 506-070. www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Tadayon launched her book My Journey Beyond Borders at an event at Book Launch Rashida the Gulf Hotel attended by ambassadors, VIPs and invited guests. HE Chilman Arisman, Rashida & HE Dato Ahmed Shahizan bin Abdul Samad
Hani & Jana
Masooma & Khadeeja
Ibrahim & Suryono
Hanza & HE Nor Huda
Zainal
Khalil & Ibrahim
Fareed
Ali & Golam
Mahin
Angela, Rashida & Hassan Fakhroo
Margret & Hameed
Shohrah, Adnan & Jameela
Lyn
Murtaza & Anwar
locally roasted specialty beans, brewed in various methods... a true coffee experience
THE AVENUE SAAR, OPPOSITE SAAR CINEMA www.bahrainthismonth.com
1721-4155 January 2015 91
bystander
Christmas Visit Nakheel Centre held a visit from Father Christmas for students of St Christopher’s School.
St Christopher’s staff and students
Alyaa & Vivi
Luise & Ian
Maddie & Mona
Davies & Lisa
Saban & Geraldine
Bharti & Vijay
Bharti’s Birthday
Bharti and Vijay Boloor hosted a party for family and friends at their home to celebrate Bharti’s birthday. Bharti & Vijay with their guests
Renuka & Susie
92 January 2015
Mariam, Aley, Susie & Joyce
Santosh & Sheela
Jujhar, Preity & KN Singh
Anushka
www.bahrainthismonth.com
dininghappenings
GASTRONOMIC GAIETY From delicious promotions to food festivals, here’s the low down on what’s happening in the dining district this month.
NEW MENU
Indulge in the tantalising dishes on the new Wataraigani menu at Bushido Restaurant, which is available exclusively this month. Serving up a variety of delicious options, all centred around this succulent shellfish, Bushido’s executive chef is delighted to showcase the versatility of crab meat for diners to enjoy. There are numerous nutritional benefits to be noted in crab meat and, in addition, it’s also pretty delicious, which is reason enough to try out this menu. As well as the Wataraigani menu, the restaurant will also be serving a ‘30-minute three-course’ lunch from Saturday to Thursday for all those who don’t want to compromise on fine dining, even during a short lunch break. Priced at BD10 net, all three courses are designed to be served within 30 minutes from the moment you order. Dishes on the menu are changed on a regular basis to ensure you never tire of the same fare. Call 17 583-555.
NEW YEAR, NEW LOOK
WHO’S THE KING? Believed to have originated in France around the 12th century, the tradition of King’s Cake celebrates the coming of the three wise men bearing gifts 12 days after Christmas on the Feast of the Epiphany on Jan 6 — also known as Twelfth Night or King’s Day. A figurine, which can represent anything from a car to a cartoon character, is hidden in the cake and the person who finds the trinket in their slice becomes king for the day and will have to offer the next cake. The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa invites you, till January 3, to be part of this tradition and additionally enjoy great food from 10am till 11pm. Call 17 586-499.
When? January 3 Event? Sushi promotion Venue? Sato, Gulf Hotel The famous Japanese restaurant invites you to try a variety of sushi. E Call 17 713-000. When? Till January 3 Event? Three King’s Cake Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Be part of this fun tradition that involves cake and other delicious goodies. E Call 17 586-499. When? January 11 Event? One Year Anniversary Venue? Rasoi by Vineet, Gulf Hotel Indulge in some of chef Vineet Bhatia’s signature creations. E Call 17 713-000. When? January 14 Event? Fire & Ice Venue? Meisei Sample a remarkable fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. E Call 17 007-770. When? January 15-24 Event? Tuscany food festival Venue? Oliveto Sample some time-honoured recipes from the beautiful region. E Call 17 716-747. When? January 22 Event? Restaurant launch Venue? The K Hotel The landmark property presents one of its venues in a new avatar. E Call 17 360-000. When? Throughout January Event? Mazmizz Food Festival Venue? Figs & Olives, The Domain Hotel & Spa Try out some authentic Arabic and Ottoman delicacies. E Call 16 000-000.
FIRE & ICE The K Hotel, located in Juffair, is unveiling one of its most popular restaurants in a completely new incarnation. All-day-dining venue Klouds has undergone a major makeover and is going to be opened with a new name and identity this month. Renamed Kolors, it will sport a vibrant look and feel. The décor will resemble an artistic gallery with colourful blinds and bright fixtures. Expect to see many new surprises in the menu as well and new theme nights will be launched soon. The restaurant’s in-house entertainment also has fresh faces with the talented Duo Venus performing your favourite tunes. Call 17 360-000. 94 January 2016
Opposites attract at Meisei on January 14, as the elements combine in the shape of an ice bar, flaming drinks and liquid nitrogen desserts. Choose the cosy indoors or enjoy the outdoors as the restaurant offers three beautiful dining floors. Sample the seasonal Nikkei menu where Japan meets Peru for a feast of fusion flavours. Call 17 007-770.
When? Throughout January Event? Italian Food Festival Venue? Le Sauvage,The Domain Hotel & Spa Take a culinary journey through Italy’s Liguria region. E Call 16 000-000. When? Throughout January Event? New menu Venue? Bushido Savour the delicacies from the new Wataraigani menu. E Call 17 583-555.
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finedining
Fine Fare Without the Fuss A long way from its typical hushed environs, BTM takes a closer look at the island’s fine dining culture and how it is more focused than ever on ‘keeping it real’. The traditional idea of fine dining conjures the image of a confusing number of knives and forks, crisp linen, shiny crystal ware, stiff etiquette, an overall air of seriousness and a long list of rules to be followed both by the diner and the host. This, almost snooty, picture is gradually fading away. There has been a massive shift in the concept and some of the biggest chefs and restaurant owners are moving towards a casual and more organic and artisan approach. If your food weaves magic, you no longer have to worry about serving it in an overly posh setting. Sukiyabashi, the most famous sushi spot on the planet, is a three-star Michelin restaurant located in the basement of an office building near the Ginza station in Tokyo. Despite its modest wooden counter, 10 tables and a waiting list that may stretch up to several months, people go there because, apparently, there is no other sushi like that served up by master chef Jiro Ono. www.bahrainthismonth.com
The last year saw a number of great restaurants join the island’s fine dining brigade. Chef to the stars and a celebrity himself, Wolfgang Puck opened three outlets at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. These are the famous Beverly Hills steakhouse, CUT, along with Re Asian Cuisine and Blue Moon Lounge, located at the hotel’s 50th floor. He’s the second Michelin-starred chef to have entered the Bahrain market after Vineet Bhatia who opened Rasoi by Vineet at the Gulf Hotel. We’ve also got an enviable army of hotels that boast outstanding food and beverage venues. Five-star boutique, The Domain Hotel & Spa’s Level 34 is dedicated to the cuisine of the South of France and houses a chic steakhouse. Imari on level 35 serves contemporary Japanese with extraordinary views of the Manama skyline. The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa spoils you with choice with restaurants such as the tranquil La Med to Plums, Nirvana and Primevara, which is partnered with another Michelin chef, Oliver Glowig. Connoisseurs of authentic Japanese food, and especially Japanese visitors craving a taste of home, swear by Kei, a charming restaurant located in the Golden Tulip. Other hotels that
contribute to the list of options include The Sheraton Bahrain, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thallasa Sea and Spa, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, Al Areen Palace & Spa, Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residences & Spa, Ramada Bahrain and Juffair’s The K Hotel and Ramee Rose Hotel, each of which is home to numerous up-market outlets. Adliya’s Block 338 is a unique spot where a colony of some of the best boutique restaurants has emerged. La Vinoteca Barcelona and Café Amsterdam have garnered a large and loyal customer base. Nicole’s offers the eclectic flavours of Mediterranean cuisine. Oliveto is an elegant venue serving authentic Italian cuisine and Upstairs Downstairs continues to be a firm favourite with islanders while Maki, in the Diplomatic Area, pushes the boundaries of innovation with its contemporary Japanese fare. The common thread running through all of these is the emphasis on creativity while operating within the realm of authenticity. As the fine-print of fine dining continues to evolve, we’re optimistic that more delicious times lie ahead for anyone who can afford them, irrespective of whether you are dressed in a suit or jeans and trainers. January 2016 95
finedining
Figs & Olives
THE DOMAIN HOTEL AND SPA
A Delicious Journey This month promises to be an absolute treat for the island’s gourmands with two food festivals at this five-star boutique hotel’s exquisite venues. The Domain Hotel and Spa, located in the heart of the Diplomatic Area, brings you the best of Arabic and Ottoman cuisine and takes you on a culinary journey to the coastal region of Liguria in Northern Italy. Arabic Ottoman Mazmizz food festival at Figs & Olives [Level 16], explores the rich culinary heritage of the Ottoman Empire. This is a cuisine that can range from delicious quick bites to elaborate preparations fit for the sultans. Chef Emad Awny presents a hearty selection of dishes that offer the eclectic flavours of Turkish and Arabic cuisine throughout the festival. “Guests can escape to Istanbul without actually going there,” he says. “The menu is extensive and I guarantee there will be quite a few dishes that you would have never tried before!” The gastronomy of Istanbul, Bursa, Izmir and the rest of the country’s Aegean region takes many elements of Ottoman-court cuisine, characterised by lighter use of spices, a preference for rice over bulgur, koftas and a greater choice of seafood. Expect many classic dishes like Middle Eastern and Turkish cold mezzeh, traditional mussel dolmas, grilled halloumi, stuffed baby 96 January 2016
squid, a mixed grilled platter, doner kebab and, for guests with a sweet tooth, kunafe crispy kaddafi dough. And, of course, there will be cups of Turkish coffee to keep you warm. “What we offer are authentic ingredients and spices that bring special flavour to our dishes, in addition to what are, undeniably, the best views in the city,” says chef Emad. During the same period Le Sauvage [Level 34] will host a second food festival called Walks of Italy. It will feature the cuisine from the Liguria region, which consists of small meadowlands, with most of its terrain rising from the Gulf of Genoa coastline sharply up to the mountainous areas. The forested hills grow wild with pine trees, providing the fresh tang of pine nuts for Ligurian dishes. Mushrooms and chestnuts
abound in the hills, as do rabbits and other wild game, making the region ideal for producing hearty and rustic country flavours. Chef Dushan Rukmal carefully puts together menus that cover the varied spectrum of dishes the region can offer. “We look forward to offering the guests wide varieties of cold entrees, meats and fresh seafood from the Italian markets and irresistible desserts,” he says. “Pesto, in its various forms, is one of the region’s most famous recipes, which we will be a big part of the food festival.” Starting this month, both the festivals will be running until March 2016, so everyone can get a chance to enjoy the selections with their family and friends. Call 16 000-000.
Le Sauvage
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bystander
Hussain & Chilman
Korean Ambassador Farewell
Close friends and diplomats came together at Casa Mexicana for a karaoke party to bid farewel to HE Yu Joonha, Korean Ambassador to Bahrain.
The Diplomat’s Got Talent team get together for a group shot
‘El Divo Asean’ performs
Rowena & Omran
Rashida, Asha, Meeji, Romina & Ranawati
Iris & Manfred
Cecil & Gemma
Domain’s Christmas Lighting
The Domain Hotel & Spa hosted a Christmas tree lighting party for guests.
Santa was greeted by managment and a choir
Margerette & Christabel
Franie, Adel, Petros, Rowena, Vangie & Cely
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Badria, Woody, Lucy & Michael
Renwick & family
Emma & Chris
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finedining MAKI
Veggie Good The innovative menu of this glamorous Japanese restaurant receives reinforcements, much to the delight of vegetarian diners. A pioneer in contemporary Japanese cuisine, Maki restaurant has always sought to promote healthy habits. Though its culinary repertoir includes dishes with ingredients such as brown rice, wild thyme, extra virgin olive oil and arugula, Maki has always tried to go one step beyond. One of its latest healthful offerings is centred on vegetarian dishes with the introduction of Akagome nasu teppanyaki and Akagome tofu teppanyaki. “Introducing some vegetarian dishes to our valued guests was an important undertaking that we set upon a while back. We just needed
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Akagome nasu teppanyaki
to enhance it. The challenge was to come up with vegetarian dishes that were both tasty and exciting,” explains Amer Zeitoun, co-founder and managing partner, who is an agricultural expert. The Akagome nasu teppanyaki boasts eggplant, which is cooked to perfection, served with exotic red rice, fresh asparagus, green chili, truffles, carrots, bok choy, spinach, pine nuts, coriander, portobello mushrooms with black truffle oil, extra virgin olive oil and sweet
miso sauce — offering a profusion of powerful flavours. It has quickly become a favourite, not only with vegetarian guests, but with regulars as well. The same applies to the Akagome tofu teppanyaki, which has added another great choice to an existing wide array of vegetarian dishes. Whether a vegetarian or not, book your table at Maki Bahrain, and enjoy these choices and many more. Call 17 522-733 or 36 999-102.
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bystander
Ali & Rondy
AEO Launch
American Eagle Outfitters opened a store at Seef Mall and launched its autumn winter collection. Ribbon cutting at the new store Nayla & Katie
Farheen, Roshni & Ray
Ayman & Ali
Melani & Shamina
Sarita & Shaima
Melanie & Jannet
Festive Lunch The Palm Association held a festive lunch at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay to celebrate 15 years in Bahrain. Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa was the guest speaker. Committee members getting into the seasonal spirit
IAA National Gathering
The International Advertising Association (IAA) Bahrain Chapter, held a National Day gathering at Al Manama Ballroom, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.
Jalil Al Ansari, Saleh bin Hindi, Khamis Muqla, Dafar Al Umran & Anwar Abdulrahman
Murtaza & Jaffar
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Naeema & Georgette
Rawan & Amal
Eman & Bassam
Abdul Redha
Sola & Patrick
Jaffar
Abdulla & Moanes
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bystander
JK & Keith
Augusta, Sue & Tracie
Louise & Ruairi
Jannet & Candice
Michael, Joe & Laurent
Sal & Viv
Irish Anniversary Celebrations The Bahrain Irish Society celebrated its 40th anniversary with a Christmas party at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa. Dafar Al Umran & HE Tony Cotter
Shannnon & Jamie
Rob & Mo
Siobhan & Emily
Niko & Lauren
Barbara & Naomi
Bahrain Irish Festival Bahrain Rugby Football Club hosted the Irish Society’s annual Bahrain Irish Festival alongside the Gaelic Games. Sarah, Blathnaid, Stacey & Leona
Khloe, Kourtney & Kim
Roisin & Patrick
Carla, Heather & Emma
Kate & Niamh
Fiona & Meave
Sarah, Alison & Rabeca
Christel & Emily
Sinead & Fionn
Brian & Colette
Lee & Maya
Maryam & Aisling
Maryam & Aisling
Faisal & Sara
Christmas Party Bahrain Irish Society held a Christmas party where young guests played fun games and met Santa and his elves. Kids and grown ups pose for pictures with Santa
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Janet, Sophie & Helen
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finedining KEI RESTAURANT
The Real Taste of Japan This 30-year-old restaurant has stood the test of time and serves soulsatisfying Japanese food to its loyal customers. We speak to the chef about what makes his cuisine so special. “When I was 19, I used to watch a reality TV programme in Japan called Chef of the Emperor and the passion and dedication I saw in the participants ignited my own desire to become a chef,” says Umekawa who now boasts a career of more than 35 years in Japanese gastronomy. He is the executive chef of Bahrain’s oldest Japanese restaurant, Kei, at the Golden Tulip Hotel. Living in Bahrain for almost a year now, he’s well settled and is quite taken by the country’s enthusiasm for food. A huge hit among Japanese expats and tourists alike, food at Kei is as authentic as it can possibly get. “When I first joined the kitchen here, I wanted to introduce more fusionstyle dishes, but I soon realised that it would be better to make Kei all about the delicate, fundamental flavours of our cuisine and give Bahrain a taste of what we Japanese eat at home,” Umekawa adds. “People who come here don’t really look for Japanese fusion, but true kyõdo ryõri or regional dishes, hot pot or nabe mono preparations and other dishes that we usually eat back home.” This ‘authentic’ approach is not only reflected in the restaurant’s food but also the work ethic of the service and kitchen staff. Kei underwent a
謹 賀 新 年
謹 賀 新 年
Chef Umekawa
refreshing make over during the summer months and that has certainly helped in renewing the vibe of the venue. In addition to the lunch and dinner service, Kei serves business lunch for BD5++ and will be offering traditional Japanese New Year treats in January. Call 17 533-450.
謹 賀 新 年
Happy New Year 2016 Enjoy the wonder of authentic Japanese cuisine. GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL, BAHRAIN (TEL.:) +973 17533450 (OPEN) 12:00pm - 3:00pm / 7:00pm - 11:00pm * DELIVERY & OUTSIDE CATERING ARE ALSO AVAILABLE WITH RICH SELECTION OF DELICACIES
BTM Ad 2015.indd 1
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What’s New Glittering Wrists
Edited by Apple Sharma
The new Roberto Cavalli by Franck Muller Diamonds Collection for watches is a luxurious fashion statement, inspired by the unique Roberto Cavalli style, incorporating some of his most iconic elements such as snake pattern and animal prints, as well as the Franck Muller expertise for high-end watchmaking and passion for diamonds. Available at all A La Mode outlets.
Quintessentially British
Heritage Based in Denim
Inspired by the trench coat and its heritage of British design and craftsmanship, My Burberry captures the fragrance of a London garden after the rain. A floral scent with top notes of sweet pea and bergamot fused with geranium leaf, golden quince and freesia, with a base of patchouli, rain-tipped damask and centifolia roses. Available at Wojooh, Seef Mall Muharraq.
American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) has landed in Bahrain with its new Holiday Collection that focuses on individual style, free-spirited fashion and real people. With denim at its core, AEO jeans come in 10 fits for girls and eight for guys, 30 sizes and 49 washes. Available at AEO store at Seef Mall.
Ethnic Vibes Give your winter wardrobe an instant exotic twist with a range of accessories by Parfois, inspired by the Indian city of Mumbai. Aptly named the Mumbai Collection, the range is dominated by colours such as camel, green, yellow, pink and purple. Available at Parfois, City Centre Bahrain.
Treat Your Feet Pamper your feet with Vincci’s amazing new selection of graceful footwear in shades of pastels, nudes or classic monotones. Match the shoes with an elegant handbag from the collection to complete the look. Available at Vincci, City Centre Bahrain.
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marketplace BALDININI
A Tribute to Timeless Style
This world-class brand’s boutique — located at Moda Mall — offers a range of luxurious footwear and bags for women. Established in 1910, Baldinini successfully crossed the fine line between art and craft; a result achieved with the contribution of gifted master artisans and many skilled hands. Baldinini produces hundreds of thousands of shoes each year, all of which are designed and made in Italy. Meticulous quality control
accompanies the production process of each piece, from design to packing, including finishes and appliqués that are often done by hand. The Baldinini style reflects a mix of classic and contemporary high-end fashion and imbues each pair of shoes with innovation and appeal. They are beautiful, slender shapes that are supremely elegant and exquisitely decorated. “What’s my style today? It is, above all, a tribute to women’s beauty. I enjoy turning materials into emotions — but it took a hundred years,” Gimmi Baldinini once said. Everything starts with the material’s sculptural qualities combined with a sophisticated sense of colour, making them veritable objets d’art. All the shoes crafted by this brand have an unmistakable touch of Italian style and an aesthetic sensibility that encapsulates precious stones and superior techniques. Each pair is a work of art, moulded and sculpted in an artist’s studio. Baldinini’s sparkling collections are perfect for women who enjoy Italian glamour; bared,
MODA MALL - مودا مول www.bahrainthismonth.com
17 535 086
jewelled, held in light, delicate designs, iconic yet ironic, with a funky couture vibe. Visit www.baldinini.it or Instagram baldinini_ bh for more details. Call 17 535-086.
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marketplace
ASIA JEWELLERS
Keeping Up with the Times This fashionable brand, renowned for its urban timepieces, releases its new season’s collection and introduces the latest contemporary watch that will make you green with envy.
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Conceived to match the eclectic collections designed for Gucci’s Spring/Summer 2016 runway, the new green-red-green watch is a contemporary and eyecatching addition to the Gucci Timepieces portfolio. In keeping with the brand’s quirky and urban mood, this watch introduces a bold new aesthetic that blends a number of original design ideas. The watch takes Gucci’s green-red-green motif and revisits the web stripe by working it into a very modern, coloured Plexiglas bangle. The geometric lines of the bangle and rectangular clear Plexiglas case are juxtaposed with a circular skeletonised dial showing off the inner mechanics, both in a yellow-gold colour. As a final flourish, Gucci’s recent honeybee motif, a new symbol for the house, is etched onto the case back and printed onto the bangle in gold leaf. An exciting blend of iconic Gucci codes and a highly contemporary concept, this timepiece is a fashion-forward statement for all style-conscious watch lovers. Echoing the playful yet polished mood represented at Gucci’s Spring/Summer 2016 runway collections, Gucci Timepieces & Jewellery has also released stylish new variants of the feminine G-Frame timepiece. These new watches are fitted with a double-loop strap and come in a variety of designs, from sporty to classic to urban.
Recognisable by its neat beveled, square case and minimalist dial, this collection shows how the mood of the watch can change by simply switching materials. Inspired by the Gucci green-red-green web stripe, the sportiest model displays two-tone canvas on the wraparound strap and matching dial, set within a yellow gold PVD case. The bright coloured racing stripe is perfect for the clean, lean G-Frame design, resulting in a dynamic and streamlined timepiece. The new G-Frame with a brown calfskin looped strap, polished gold PVD case and mother of pearl dial creates a classic look with a chic and feminine appeal. As a contrast, the black variation offers a more urban aesthetic, seen in the dial and black leather wraparound strap, embellished with metal studs. On these two leather versions, Gucci’s new honeybee motif is present next to the clasp, in matching yellow or stainless steel. Each timepiece shows the Gucci logo at 12 o’clock, the ‘Swiss Made’ stamp at 6 o’clock, ‘G’ insignia on the crown and the new honeybee symbol engraved on the case back. Gucci timepieces are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers. Call 17 535-344 or visit www.asiajewellers.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com
JUNAID PERFUMES
A Fond Farewell This traditional perfumery bids farewell to one of its oldest employees, honouring him for his long-standing dedication. Junaid Perfumes, one of the leading perfumers in the region, recently said goodbye to one of its longest serving employees, Mehboob Omer Amir. An outstanding staff member, Mehboob served the company for 22 years as a driver, performing his duties tirelessly and with great passion. On account of his farewell, Junaid Perfumes honoured Mehboob by presenting him with a special plaque and an appreciation letter for his tremendous contribution towards the success of the brand. “Each and every individual on our staff is our solid rock and truly the backbone of this company,” said Junaid Perfumes marketing executive Fahad Junaid. “We could not have reached where we are today without the contributions of each and every member of the Junaid family. Today we are saying goodbye to one such great example
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Mehboob receiving an appreciation plaque from the Junaid Perfumes family
that described efficiency, dedication and hard work. Mr Mehboob has shown complete devotion and loyalty to Junaid Perfumes and our goals.” Junaid Perfumes would like to wish him good luck in all his future endeavours and a happy and prosperous life ahead.
Established in 1910, Junaid Perfumes is one of the oldest perfumers in the GCC and has significantly grown in repute and stature over the years. Today the company operates many exclusive retail outlets in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Turkey and other countries worldwide.
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marketplace RAMEE ROSE HOTEL
Rejuvenate your Senses This state-of-the-art spa offers the latest in wellbeing treatments that are a delight for all your senses. Reborn Spa, Salon and Slimming Centre at Ramee Rose Hotel in Juffair combines three elements that most of us find missing from our daily lives — simplicity, tranquility and time. With a firm belief in the concept, ‘outer beauty begins with inner peace’, the spa invites you to indulge, relax and rejuvenate in its serene environs. While cut off from any external noise, you are transported to another world that is focused on invigorating and energising you. At Reborn, you can indulge in ancient spa rituals from different cultures that are designed to elevate your sense of well-being. Stimulate the mind with aromatherapy-inspired body and beauty treatments or restore the radiance of your hair in the salon. Take advantage of a number of on-going promotional offers. Go for a 45 minute Moroccan bath along with a 60-minute Thai or Swedish massage for BD59 or opt for the Royal Hammam with massage package for BD69. Pamper your skin with an intensive scrub and massage package that
Bahrain Marathon Relay
starts from BD45 or try out the 60-minute Aroma spa ocean wrap followed by an hour-long aromatherapy massage for BD69. There is also a special promotion — valid only on weekdays — enjoy a massage, Elemis facial or hammam treatment and add waxing or a luxury manicure or pedicure for only BD8 extra. Reborn Spa, Salon and Slimming Centre is located on the fourth floor of the hotel. Call 17 616-167.
The 35th Bahrain Marathon Relay took place at the Bahrain International Circuit. Participants at the start of the event.
Bahrain British Business Forum held its annual Christmas lunch gathering at the InterContinental Regency Hotel. BBBF Christmas Lunch The HE Simon Martin, British Ambassador was the guest speaker. Ambassador Martin with BBBF members
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marketplace EAGLE HILLS
Making a Mark in the Kingdom
A modern sales centre is set to launch in 2016, to showcase this mixed-use lifestyle community development. Eagle Hills, the UAE-based private real estate investment and development company and developer of Marassi Al Bahrain, in partnership with Diyar Al Muharraq, announced that both residential unit sales and development work for the first phase of the planned community are set to launch during the first quarter of 2016. A kilometre stretch of sandy beach and food and beverage outlets will also open alongside the sales centre, allowing the public to experience what the vibrant waterfront way of life will have to offer, the company says. Promising a sophisticated new lifestyle choice, the first phase of Marassi Al Bahrain includes iconic landmarks such as a shopping complex anchored by two luxury hotel brands, The Address Hotels + Resorts and Vida Hotels and Resorts, seafront residential apartments, a canal waterfront promenade and a community mosque, with all related roads, utilities and other infrastructure. A total of 480 serviced and residential apartments will offer access to the beach and views overlooking one of Bahrain’s most spectacular seafronts. The first of the five development phases will be completed by 2019. Marassi Al Bahrain, spanning 864,000sq/m, will be constructed on the eastern shores within the master planned community of Diyar 110 January 2016
Al Muharraq, forming a key luxury component of Bahrain’s largest private urban project. Maher Al Shaer, CEO of Diyar Al Muharraq and managing director of Marassi Al Bahrain, says: “What makes this fully integrated community a key project within Diyar Al Muharraq is the highquality designs, engineering and the strong international experience that Eagle Hills brings from developing advanced city hubs in Jordan, Morocco, Serbia and Nigeria. “Eagle Hills has taken a holistic approach by ensuring that all Marassi Al Bahrain’s components complement each other, bringing exceptional value for its residents to work, live and play. Integrating the beach as a landmark to be enjoyed all year round will transform lifestyles in the Kingdom and meet a growing demand for waterfront living.”
Low Ping, CEO, Eagle Hills, adds: “The first phase of Marassi Al Bahrain assures an array of retail, F&B, leisure and entertainment choices for residents and visitors. The strong interest received this year, not only from the region, but also from global investors, indicates the project is one of the key residential property launches. We anticipate successful sales, as the development offers exceptional value across all aspects.” Upon completion, Marassi Al Bahrain will be home to 22,000 residents with a total of 3,500 residences and retail space of 250,000sqm. Potential investors can register their interest online and visit the recently launched website www.marassialbahrain.com for more information, ahead of the sales launch which will be announced soon. www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Mohammed, Waleed, Adel Fakhro & Ahmed
Gloria Jeans Launch SunCity Ventures inaugurated a new Gloria Jean’s coffee house at the Al Hayat Mall in Zinj. Rodney, Shaikh Ahmed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Mohammed Fakhro & Ahmed Fakhro
Rodney & Shaikh Ahmed
Nanda, Rajani, Marise & Pearlyn
Gloria Jean’s team at the opening
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Faith, Ruth & Jewel
Mohammed
Greg & Carmine
January 2015 111
marketplace BAHRAIN EXHIBITION AND CONVENTION AUTHORITY
Gulf’s leading Expo Returns!
Indulge in your love of food as one of the country’s main annual exhibitions on food and hospitality returns to the island later this year.
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The 8th Annual Food & Hospitality Expo Bahrain 2016 is one of the country’s premier exhibitions, providing business-to-business networking opportunities for all professionals within this evergrowing industry. Organised by Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre (BECA), the exhibit will take place from April 19-21, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of the Kingdom, supported by Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce and BECA’s strategic partner, Tamkeen. The exciting event brings together industry professionals including food producers, distributors, refrigeration and packaging experts, kitchen and food manufacturing equipment producers, caterers, hoteliers, as well as chefs and business owners from the industry, both locally and internationally. It’s also a great opportunity for businesses to build connections within the industry and for reaching out to customers. Now in its eighth year, the expo is well established in the market and has a hard-earned reputation amongst exhibitors for delivering spectacular return on investment. For businesses seeking new sales from the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, the Food & Hospitality Expo provides a trade and sourcing platform where international flavours find world-class business.
Additionally, they have a chance to benefit from the region’s premier knowledge exchange, through education, training, competitions and live happenings. The event will see the involvement of well-reputed members of Bahrain’s hospitality sectors and the greatest concentration of buyers in one place for the food and catering trade. It will host important industry players from key sectors such as four- and five-star hotels; restaurants; caterers and organisers; equipment suppliers; food and beverage technology; packing and frozen foods; food processing technology; ready to eat products; healthy and organic foods and snacks; the soft drinks industry; manufacturers and producers; hygiene experts; cleaning and cooking equipment; food transportation companies; chillers and containers as well as sweets and weddings suppliers. The programme of events includes seminars on food industry-related subjects, live cooking demos on stage with local chefs, food tasting sessions and live cooking on the stands. The expo will also feature talks by world renowned speakers on food and hospitality, alongside chefs’ and visitors’ competitions throughout the three days, with prizes to be won. The opening hours of the exhibition are from 10am to 7pm. Visit www.foodexpo.bh for more information. www.bahrainthismonth.com
DR RIM BOGARI DENTAL CENTER
Dental Art Fusion Smile with confidence as dentistry is taken to a whole new level at this boutique dental centre. Dr Rim Bogari Dental Center is the first boutique dental centre located in the heart of Bahrain. It aims to provide dental-art fusion that is made with passion. The dental centre is creating a new level of exclusive excellence in the Kingdom and across the Middle East. Its team takes pride in customer service and attention to detail, providing excellent patient care and high quality treatment using state-of-the-art technology and techniques. “We, at Dr Rim Bogari Dental Center, believe that your smile is your own signature; it’s the first impression that you give to people when you meet and talk,” says Dr Rim. “We care to make this smile and make your signature a piece of art that would reflect you in the best picture. Our smiles are carved with the hands of artists and are made with passion to suit your own personality and face features. The smiles that we create always look as natural as possible and that’s our own signature! “It’s very important to analyse and study each case to keep its own personality, since it’s your personal signature that you will carry with you all your life. Of course, the health of your teeth and gum comes first, as it’s the basis for a beautiful smile.” Dr Rim Bogari Dental Center covers all specialties in the dental field, from cosmetic dentistry (veneers, Hollywood smile), to orthodontic treatments,
Dr Rim Bogari
implants, crowns and bridges, gum disease treatments, fillings, surgery and temporomandibular joint and muscle problems, as well as general dentistry. Insurance companies are also accepted directly. Call 17 300-114, visit www.rimbogari.com or follow Instagram @drrimbogari.
brand your smile
BEFORE
Dr. Rim Bogari
Cosmetic Dentist/ DDS Germany Chairperson for the European Society of Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Shadi Samawi
Consultant Specialist Orthodontist Masters/England
AFTER
Dr. Rodolphe Politis
Specialist Implantologist/ Periodontist Masters/ Lebanon
Dr. Rim Bogari Dental Center
Al Raya Building | Seef Area next to Le Chocolate @drrimbogari 17300114 - 33009008 www.rimbogari.com www.bahrainthismonth.com
January 2016 113
bystander
Precious, Abba & Joanne
Andrew E’s Show International Filipino rapper, record producer and actor, Andrew Espiritu, performed at Kabayanz, Ramee Rose Hotel. Andrew performs
Ankush, Deepali,Reigine, Rose, Geraldine & Loti
Mary-Ann,Jhun & Glence
DJ Competition Ramee California Hotel hosted a DJ competition at Bed Rock. Runner-up DJ Trixta receives his prize
Debbie, Alisa & Rone
Nut, Gam, Jojo & Pow
Lisa & Mohammed
Pitbull Kesha Tribute International Hotel hosted a Pitbull Pitbull Kesha Tribute Baisan & Kesha tribute show at Warbler. Pitbull tribute artist Okan performs
Ramee International Hotel hosted a Pitbull Kesha tribute show at its venue, Rocky’s Cafe. Okan as Pitbull
Abdulla & Johan
Pranesh & Pachu
Mo & Mimi
Sutbtip & Isidoro Nicky, Yaya & Stephen
CC & Nana
114 January 2015
Nisara & Steve
Sagar, Prajnesh & Amaranth
Ashish, Windy & Mohammed
Ron & Angie
Tonette & Jron
Gopinath, Preetham & Deepak
Shanz & Chris
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bystander
Leen, Jood & Alma
Cinderella Winter Tale
City Centre Bahrain unveiled the second year of its Cinderella Winter Tale theme for the festive season. The cast with mall management Ali & Jumana
Oregano
- Bahrain this Month - 125mm x 191mm.pdf
Jassim & Rawia
Asal, Salma & Melissa
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7:11 PM
Hawra & Zainab
Rachelle & Alan
Isa & Alanood
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CM
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CMY
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January 2015 115
marketplace BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL
Tackling the Man Boob Plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery consultant, Dr Salil Bharadwaj, explains the process and reasons behind male breast reduction.
Male breast reduction surgery is a common and popular procedure that removes excess fat and tissue from male breasts and flattens skin to improve shape and contours, leading to a more pleasing and masculine appearance for men with enlarged breasts. Why choose male breast reduction? For a number of men, having enlarged breasts (gynaecomastia) can cause embarrassment, distress and a loss of confidence. When men have large breasts it is often linked with obesity but this is not always the cause. Hereditary factors also contribute. In certain cases, men can have abnormal glandular breast tissue growth, often associated with a hormone imbalance, possibly heightened levels of the female hormone oestrogen. Other potential causes of enlarged breasts may be: excess alcohol consumption; drugs such as anabolic steroids; or a big loss of weight resulting in sagging skin. What is involved in male breast reduction surgery? Surgery is performed either with sedatives and local anaesthetic or under general anaesthetic and takes between one and three hours depending on the individual.
Dr Salil Bharadwaj
If the condition is caused mainly by excess fatty tissue (pseudo-gynaecomastia) then liposuction will probably be used. This is a technique where fat cells are broken down and then sucked out via a hollow tube (cannula). Small incisions are made at the areola to allow the cannula to enter and, after the process is finished, the incision is stitched. The scars usually heal very well and are not too noticeable. If the condition is caused by excess glandular tissue (gynaecomastia), liposuction is sometimes not adequate. Small incisions are made at the edge of the areola and glandular tissue is then cut away using a scalpel. In certain cases liposuction may be used in conjunction with this technique. If a large amount of tissue is removed, this may necessitate larger incisions and the removal of excess skin. What happens after male breast reduction surgery? After male breast reduction surgery, a drain is sometimes required to ensure that excess fluids or blood do not build up in the body. A pressure garment should be worn for around one to four weeks to re-drape the skin and, for this time, the chest will remain tender. Painkillers can be used to alleviate any discomfort. Male chest reduction surgery is usually performed as a day case but sometimes the patient is required to stay in hospital overnight. It’s recommended that you take two to three days off work and that you don’t do anything strenuous or play sport for up to four weeks. Call 13 381-338 or email: salil.bharadwaj@bsh.com.bh.
116 January 2016
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Q1 HOTELS SUPPLY AND SERVICES
A Name of Repute Marking 10 years of presence in the service industry, this company is best known for being reliable and customer-centric. Since its inception in 2006, Q1 Hotels Supply and Services has firmly established itself as one of the market’s leading suppliers of premium products to a wide range of customers. Over 10 years, Q1 has developed a strong and diversified customer base, thanks to the extensive range of products it offers and its commitment to quality and excellent customer service. Several international five- and four-star hotel chains, apartments, restaurants, cafés, ministries, hospitals, clinics, universities, schools, spas, salons and other customers make up Q1’s impressive clientele. The company offers a wide variety of offthe-shelf products imported from Italy, Germany, France, Turkey, China and other countries. Customers can also opt for products to be customised to include their brand name and logo.
bread baskets, tea and coffee pots, cups and glasses for food and beverage set-ups. Furthermore, the company offers high-quality bedding and linen items such as pillows, duvets, duvet covers, bedsheets, towels, bathrobes, slippers, etc. Many other products such as minibars, safe boxes, disposables and tables are among the company’s long and diversified products list. The Q1 Hotels Supply and Services showroom in Manama is a one-stop-shop for efficient and effective products for different customer segments. Call 17 000-023 or 39 055-550.
Q1 provides a broad range of effective waste management solutions such as ashtrays, waste baskets, pedal bins, sack holders, containers etc. It also offers hygiene related products including tissues, tissue dispensers, soap dispensers, hand dryers, hair dryers, toiletries and air freshener systems. Moreover, Q1 is a supplier of an extensive range of trolleys, housekeeping and cleaning equipment and supplies, as well as cutlery, crockery, tableware, chafing dishes, trays,
THE MARKET LEADING SUPPLIER FOR A WIDE RANGE OF PREMIUM PRODUCTS FOR HOTELS, RESTAURANTS, OFFICES AND VILLAS FOR THE PAST 10 YEARS.
Waste management solutions
Cleaning carts, machines, and chemicals Disposables
Hygiene and paper products
Bedding and linen items
Cutlery, crockery and tableware
Housekeeping supplies (trolleys, toiletries …etc.)
many other off-the-shelf and customized products
39055550, 39066660, 36850000, 17000023 www.bahrainthismonth.com
info@q1bahrain.com
q1_bh
www.q1bahrain.com January 2016 117
bystander
John, Manisha & Rhea
Alison & Kareena
Alison’s Christmas Party Alison held a festive gathering with carols and fun for family and friends at her home. Hana, Daniel, Alison & Peter
Rehna & Carol
Trevor & Surbita
Oswald & Denzil
Rose & Val
Asha & George
Renuka & Anne
Shalini & Denzil
Prasad & Peter
Sandeep & Anu
Prasad & Carol
Sunaina & Carol
George & Jenan
Dinner Party Renuka Ravi hosted a dinner party for family and friends at her home in Riffa Views. Rana, Renuka, Bharti, Sunita & Anne
Hussain, Pauline, Bijan & Munira
118 January 2015
Darine, Durry & Zaine
Rhea & Alison
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marketplace
TONI&GUY
Beautiful Brunettes Who says only blondes have fun? Brunettes can equally enjoy the limelight this season with these fabulous new ideas for brown hair.
With this season high on brunettes, Toni&Guy brings you some fantastic ideas for dark brown hair, with or without highlights. Shiny and rich, dark brown hair can be stunning and although it has a lot of depth on its own, adding a pop of colour with subtle or even bold highlights can turn one dimensional brunette hair into a multidimensional masterpiece. Head Over Heels for Hidden Highlights These highlights are hidden, but gently pop through to add the perfect touch of dimension. This look is incredibly low maintenance and absolutely magical if you have a warmer brown colour all over and want to inject a lighter, warm tone. It’s perfect for those with cool-toned skin who want to add a little brightness around their face. A short, layered haircut works best for this colour combo. Tips: This is the perfect look for dark haired beauties looking to go lighter over time. Take a medium-sized round brush and smooth out the locks while blow drying. A few peek-a-boo highlights are a great way to start adding lightness without overdoing it all at once. Totally on Top Add some caramel to the top of your dark brown hair to bring brightness around your face. Here’s a look that’s a bit bold without going too far into the really ‘out there’ colour category. Although
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the highlight pattern is bold and daring, it still remains in the brunette family, so it works well without overdoing the contrast. Depending on the current health and colour of your hair, this shade could be a bit difficult to achieve. So, consult your stylist on what’s possible for your specific hair. Tips: Specially great on short hair, colour blocking looks dramatic and bold. Use a medium-sized round brush to smooth your hair while blow drying. The colour right around the face will frame it well. Ombré Perfection One of the biggest trends of late is the low maintenance and stunningly natural ombré that allows plenty of dimension and doesn’t force you to be a slave to your roots every six to eight weeks. A gradual, natural looking ombré, which goes from dark to honey toned ends, is the perfect complement to any skin tone. Multi-tonal shades span virtually the whole colour scale, bringing brightness and sheen, and go well with all complexions. This look works great for short hair also. Tips: If you have dark hair that you have been colouring dark, getting your ends to a lighter shade could be a bit of a process as lifting old colour out of the hair must be done gradually to protect the integrity of your hair. Call 17 001-700. January 2016 119
marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS
Reach for the Moon Technical and artistic excellence blend into one as this renowned watchmaker unveils a stunning timepiece that remains true to its astronomical roots. Demonstrating its rich British history and quality Swiss craftsmanship, Arnold & Son reveals a new version the HM Perpetual Moon. With a steel case and a blue guilloché dial, this model is a testament to the brand’s tradition of watches with astronomical indications. The watch, with one of the biggest moonphase apertures on the market, is part of the Arnold & Son Royal Collection, inspired by the timepieces created in the early part of John Arnold’s life. It pays tribute to the watches he produced for England’s King George III and members of the Royal Court. The timepieces in the Royal Collection demonstrate the brand’s prowess in traditional watchmaking and classical decorative arts. The sophisticated HM Perpetual Moon is a superb example of Arnold & Son’s technical and artistic excellence, surprising and delighting from the inside out. It houses the brand’s exclusive mechanical hand-wound movement, the calibre A&S1512 that was specially developed for this model with the objective of offering a uniquely precise, big and three-dimensional moonphase. The calibre is also equipped with a double barrel to yield 90 hours of power reserve.
The HM Perpetual Moon offers one of the most accurate moonphases on the market, with only one day’s deviation every 122 years — at which point a single push on the corrector will keep it in sync for another 122 years! The exceptional perpetual moonphase indication of this watch is a marvel in many ways. Aesthetically, the 29mm moonphase disc, which runs from 10 to 2 o’clock on the dial, reveals one of the largest moons on the market, with a diameter of 11.2mm for the moon alone. It’s also one of the most visually stunning recreations of the moon because it’s a threedimensional sculpted figure which was first hand-engraved and then duplicated for the series. The sculptured moon is then inserted into the guilloché disc. Technically, the HM Perpetual Moon is an intriguing complication — it’s not simply a module added to the movement, it is, in fact, fully integrated into the calibre. The watch also has a unique easy-to-set feature thanks to the ingenious addition of a second moon indication installed at the back of the movement. The multiple technological advancements in the calibre make this timepiece truly outstanding and a fascinating work of technical mastery and fine art. Arnold & Son timepieces are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers. Call 17 535-344 or visit www.asiajewellers.com.
Main Technical Characteristics: Calibre: A&S1512 Exclusive Arnold & Son mechanical movement, hand-wound, big perpetual moon, 27 jewels, diameter 34mm, thickness 5.35mm, power reserve 90h, two barrels, 21’600 vibrations/h Functions: Hours, minutes, big perpetual moon, diameter disc — 29 mm, diameter moon — 11.2mm, second moonphase indication on the back for setting purposes Movement Decoration: Nickel-silver movement, rhodium treated with Haute Horlogerie finishing — manually chamfered bridges with polished edges, fine circular graining and Côtes de Genève rayonnantes, blued screws with polished and chamfered edges Dials: Translucent blue lacquered guilloché moon disc with silvered moon and stars; back dial — fine circular graining, rhodium treated, rendition of the eight phases of the moon Case: Stainless steel, diameter 42mm, cambered sapphire with anti-reflective coating on both sides, case back seethrough sapphire, water-resistant to 30m Strap: Hand-stitched black or brown alligator leather
120 January 2016
www.bahrainthismonth.com
marketplacebusinessbites
GDN Goes Pan-Gulf
New Hotel for Amwaj Scheduled to open in the near future, Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj will offer 162 guest rooms ranging from spacious superior rooms to three-bedroom suites. Within walking distance of the marina and Amwaj Lagoon, the hotel will include an all-daydining restaurant and lobby café, as well as the city’s first Moroccan fine-dining outlet, on a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the sea. Flexible meeting space will be able to accommodate up to 200 people and there will be extensive leisure facilities including a state-of-theart gym fitted with CYBEX strength and cardio equipment. The hotel will also offer a variety of treatments ranging from Swedish to Ayurvedic and Thai massage, a ladies salon, a swimming pool and an indoor Jacuzzi with a sauna and steam rooms. The hotel is expected to open in the first quarter of 2016.
One of Bahrain’s top publishing companies has launched the first dedicated pan-GCC online news network and digital business communities. Al Hilal Group, the Gulf Daily News’ parent company, has expanded its Gulf Digital News brand, providing bespoke news content to audiences in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. It follows the successful re-launch of the GDN website, www.GDNonline.com, in June 2015, and provides a targeted local news service for each GCC country, in addition to latest regional and international news. The group has also rolled out 11 editions of its Arabian Business Community (ABC) portals with four UAE editions, three for Saudi Arabia and editions for Kuwait, Qatar and Oman, following the successful launch of ABC Bahrain last year. Audiences can access ABC databases through the GDNonline site.
Savings in Store
The Middle East’s best-selling incentives brand promises a year of huge savings with the launch of the Entertainer Bahrain 2016, featuring over 876 Buy One Get One Free offers for dining, nightlife, entertainment, fitness venues and more in Bahrain and hotel accommodation worldwide. Entertainer offers are valid until December 30, 2016, (excluding public holidays) and can save customers up to BD24,600 over the course of a year.
Exciting new merchants in 2016 include Bahrain International Circuit, Lost Paradise of Dilmun, Lanterns and The Domain Hotel – to name a few. Hundreds of popular merchants are back for 2016 including Jasmi’s, Nu Asia, Nando’s, Wahooo!, Magic Planet, The Butcher Shop And Grill and many more throughout Bahrain. The Entertainer Bahrain 2016 has launched with special pricing for the App, which is BD10 less than the book, allowing customers to save even more in 2016.
bystander
Reena, Rajni & Pallavi
Meenakshi , Vandana
Dinner Party Radhika and Sanjay held a dinner party for family and friends at their home. Radhika, HE Alok Sinha, Sanjay & Mamta Sinha
Sanjay & Radhika
Sandeep, Ram & Kabir
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Karina
Navneet & Lalit
Anil
Humeira
Vijay
Sanjay
George, Navneet & Babar
January 2016 121
bystander
BSB National Day
The British School of Bahrain held National Day celebrations at its campus in Hamala for students. Youngsters took to the stage to entertain guests.
Internations Christmas Meeting Internations held a multi-national festive event at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain. Locals and expats come together to network and enjoy.
Golf Tournament The Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Fares Al Khalifa Cup golf tournament was held at the Awali Golf Club. Shaikh Fares, winner Hamad Feras, Mohammed & Bill
Diane, Ocean & Julia
Alice, Firaz & Kate
Musical Theatre
Omer & Sherif
Lucy, Dennis & Zach
Farooq, Shaikh Fares, Shaikh Abdulrahman & Shaikha Lulwa
The MASK theatre company performed West End favourite Cats to sold out houses at the Rugby Club. The cast acknowledges the audience after a successful show.
122 January 2015
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winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.
AD SEEK
To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.
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When and where is the Bahrain International Airshow due to be held? ___________________________
HINT: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.
Which one of Shakespeare’s greatest plays will be performed at the Cultural Hall on January 11? ___________________________
Bahrain This Month received 68 entries last month, 62 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:
The musical concert in conjunction with an international cultural conference will showcase which Japanese artist? ___________________________ Which restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay serves a beverage called ‘Crouching Tiger’? ___________________________ What is The Warbler’s fun-filled Friday brunch popularly known as? ___________________________
Who got it right?
Winner : Soledad Calumpang Second Place : Eugenia Fabro Third Place : Rosalie Gonzales
Last month’s solutions 1. Anna Nikulina and Alexander Volchkov 2. VIVA Shop & Skate 3. A Nightmare Before Christmas 4. Clarita de Quiroz 5. Karim Habib 6. Sandeep Mathur 7. Duster 8. Majestic Arjaan By Rotana, Bahrain 9. Upstairs Downstairs 10. The Grand Ambassador Ballroom
1
12/15/15
12:09 PM
This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below Buy your tickets now each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!
Experience the
FLYING
HIGH Effortless elegance 1. culinary finesse. meets
2. 21-23 January, Sakhir Airbase Tickets available at all Batelco outlets
Ad Seek 1. Cartier 2. Elite Seef Residence & Hotel
6
7 8
This year (2016) marks which anniversary of Bahrain-British relations? ___________________________ Which country’s Foreign Minister visited Bahrain last month? ___________________________ Which model has Al Haddad Motors recently launched? ___________________________
9
What is Toyota’s flagship SUV? ___________________________
10
Which model has Hyundai Motor Company recently launched?
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3. Omega
Organised by:
4. Riffa Views International School
Name:
Address:
@BahrainInternationalAirshow
In Association with:
@BahAirshow
bahraininternationalairshow.com
For reservations call +973 17716747 Villa No. 1157, Road No. 3884, Block 338, Adliya, Kingdom of Bahrain
3.
Telephone:
Email:
CPR:
Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random. Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.
4. January 2016 123
Headline Sponso
bystander
OTHER EVENTS
The Domain Hotel and Spa launched its new, multifunctional, content rich mobile app at Domain Privé. The Guest of Honor at the event was Sheikh Khaled Bin Humood Al-Khalifa; Assistant Undersecretary for Tourism, Tourism Sector. Stephen Daniel, welcomed the guests and thanked Sheikh Khaled for his support. The event ended with a small presentation regarding the app by Tanvi Bhatia, sales and marketing manager. E K Kanoo hosted the 2015 GCC Technicians Skills Grand Prix under the patronage of HE Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Labour Minister, at the Toyota Training Centre, Sitra.
Casa Mexicana launched a new loyalty card for its guests. The Little India in Bahrain project, celebrating Indian culture and heritage, was launched by Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa in an event attended by BACA president Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Indian Ambassador HE Alok Kumar Sinha and community leaders.
AJM Kooheji Group won an award at LG MEA SVC Skill Olympiad. Kevin Cha LG MEA CEO presented the award to Usman Ali who took second prize and the ‘Master’ title in the RAC category.
The launch of The Entertainer Bahrain 2016 was held at The Domain Hotel & Spa.
The embassy of Malaysia held a lunch meeting for the ASEAN Outreach Programme with the participation of all ASEAN ambassadors at the Swiss-Belhotel in Seef.
An honouring ceremony was held by The Domain Hotel and Spa for its employees. Jahidur Rahman & Pururava Sivamalliah, were presented with the D’ Star of the Month of November 2015 award. Present were Sudhir Bali operations manager (third left), Lucky Punzalan director of finance, Mohammed Khalaf, HR manager, Ahmed Abdelhalim chief engineer & Tanzeem Alam engineering coordinator.
Anil Shankar celebrated his birthday with his wife Priya at Nicole’s restaurant.
124 January 2015
A gala dinner was held at The Domain Hotel Bahrain, to celebrate the launch of Flynas, a new airline service. The event was attended by management and owners of the new group as well as dignitaries.
Nine-year-old Adam Kadia held his first book signing to promote his book Peace and Friendship, at the St Christopher’s School fair.
Pop Up Art Middle East, a four-day art exhibition, presented artworks from across the MENA and a film screening of ‘After Tomorrow’ by director Toufic Beyhum.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
OTHER EVENTS
The Sneha-ILA school for special needs celebrated its annual day Together We Blossom at Crowne Plaza Conference Centre.
The RCSI held a conferring ceremony for graduates, at its campus.
The Commanding Officer of Pakistani ship PNS Tippu Sultan hosted an onboard reception dinner for Pakistani and Bahraini dignitaries which was attended by HE Hatun Demirer, Turkish Ambassador, Foreign Ministry Assistant Undersecretary Dr Dhafer Al Omran, HE Muhammad Saeed Khan, Pakistani Ambassador and Deputy Commander Royal Bahrain Naval Force Brigadier Mohammed Yousif Al Asam.
On behalf of His Royal Highness, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, the Cabinet Affairs Minister HE Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Mutawa officially inaugurated the new Aster DM Medical Centre in Gudaibiya. The ceremony took place in the presence of Lieutenant General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, president Supreme Council of Health and HE Faeqa bint Said Al-Saleh, Health Minister.
The Moroccan Embassy and Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities hosted a traditional musical evening at the Cultural Centre to mark Bahrain’s National Day. The event saw Layali Al Nagham Music Group playing Arab-Andalusian music from Morocco joined on stage by their Bahraini counterparts the Mohammed Bin Faris band. As a part of the eighth Korea-Arab friendship caravan tour, a b-boy performance Marionette’by Expression Crew was held at Bahrain Cultural Hall. Around 400 people attended the show and afterwards Bahraini and Korean b-boys had a dance battle demonstrating their break dance skills.
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Members of the media got a chance to fly at the launch of Gravity indoor skydiving venue.
January 2015 125
tarotscope
CAPRICORN
ARIES March 21 – April 20
Dec 22 – Jan 21
have to make a career decision that could offer huge
There’s no time like the present so don’t put off a potential career move any longer. Excuses are a sign of weakness or hesitancy and if you can’t be honest with yourself then no one will ever take you seriously. You know in your heart what it is you really want to do and whilst it might be a gamble, think about what it is you have to lose. You might be surprised to find it’s all less of a risk than you have been telling yourself. Card of the Month — The High Priestess
The New Year opens with a big call for your sign as you financial rewards but does need you to make a few concessions in other areas. Those of you with partners or family may need to take this to committee because it does represent a big lifestyle change and that is the payoff for the monetary advantages. At least the decision is in your hands. Take heart from that fact. Card of the Month — The Knight of Pentacles
TAURUS Apr 21 – May 20 2016 opens up with a blast from the past as you meet up with a friend from many years back who is about to make an unexpected return. It might not seem like a big problem but for those of you in relationships it could bring challenges you hadn’t initially thought about. On the career front, the chance for a move is almost upon you. It’s really down to whether you have the courage to take the plunge! Card of the Month — The Empress
GEMINI May 21 – June 20 January may bring some challenges for you but they are all manageable, so long as you approach things sensibly. Don’t get flustered and map out what you need to do objectively. On the relationship side there is a potential clash with a loved one over a longstanding dispute that just won’t go away. You are both clearly digging your heels in over this but unless one of you concedes ground it
For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk
AQUARIUS January 21 – February 20 You live to improve yourself and the frustrations that have perhaps been eating away at you over the last few months may finally be put behind you as 2016 opens up a new road of opportunity. There is going to be little out there that can stop you and this is a good thing because part of your problem has been a lack of motivation. The way forward is going to open up like a new horizon and put simply, this is all yours. Card of the Month — The Six of Swords
PISCES February 21 – March 20 Trouble could come looking for you this month but it will be in disguise and you will not even recognise it immediately. However, if you trust in your instincts and don’t panic you can get through this, although it won’t be easy. A loved one is the main focus of concern and you have to demonstrate a calm head in dealing with an issue that will impact on you in more ways than you realise. Without over stating the fact, there could be better ways to start off a New Year. Card of the Month — The Tower 126 January 2016
could be a very long month! Card of the Month — The Seven of Swords
CANCER June 21 – July 20 Fire and water don’t mix well and your sign has an uneasy alliance with the suit of Wands, meaning you could come up against some challenges this month. Whilst there are a lot of opportunities before you, it will seem that every time you attempt to make headway you’ll come up against an obstacle. The name of the game here is perseverance. Keep heart and make sure to continue on. You’ll break through in the end. It just might take a little longer. Card of the Month — The Ten of Wands
LEO July 21 – August 21 There is a lot of financial benefit to be had this month as long as you aren’t afraid to take a risk or two. If you really want to give yourself the freedom you have longed for then you have to be prepared to make a couple of sacrifices to get it. Be brave and the rewards will be great. On the family front a young child could be driving you to distraction and you may have to seek professional help to get through this. Card of the Month — The Ten of Pentacles www.bahrainthismonth.com
advertisers index VIRGO August 22 – September 21
Fashion & Footwear
You’ve had a lot of heartache to deal with when it comes to
Baldinini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
past romances and this had made many of you withdraw from any further relationships simply as a means towards self-preservation. However, this month you could find yourself drawn back into the dating game after a meeting at a party sees you hit it off with a well-meaning person. Of course it is still very much “early days” but who’s to say it won’t go somewhere this time. Card of the Month — The Seven of Cups
LIBRA September 22 – October 21 This month may see you facing a difficult purchase decision and you shouldn’t rush into anything without putting a great deal of thought behind it first. You are often accused of being impulsive and reactive rather than sensible when it comes to matters financial and you need to reign in that attitude if you are to make the right choice here. Learn from your past mistakes or it could end up a disappointing month overall.
Financial Institutions CrediMax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC
Hotels & Serviced Residences
Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . 11 Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Civil Aviation Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Emirates Group (Emirates Airlines) . 53 Entertainment Plus (Romeo & Juliet) 45 Joz Salon & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . 115
Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Eagle Hills Properties (Marassi Al
Q1 Hotels Supply & Services . . . . . . 117
Bahrain) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Qatar Airways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Mercure Grand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Ramee Group of Hotels . . . . . . . . . . . 108 The Domain Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Jewellery & Watches Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . 6 Asia Jewellers (Van Cleef & Arpels) . 4 Kooheji Jewellery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Card of the Month — The Two of Pentacles
Others
Sharif Group (Ferre Milano) . . . . . . . . 15
SCORPIO October 22 – November 21
Medical & Dental Services
Just like your Cancerian colleagues, water and fire don’t
Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 21
mix well and you could face a difficult few weeks in your
Dr. Rim Bogari Dental Center . . . . . . 113
work environment. There are several colleagues who seem
Riffa Views International School . . .111 Syed Junaid Alam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Tamkeen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 The British Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 The British School of Bahrain . . . . . . 61
Restaurants & Cafés Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Costa Coffee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Crust & Crema . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Kei Japanese Restaurant . . . . . . . . . 103 Lumee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
set against you succeeding and you are going to have to show courage
Motoring
and resolve if you are to get through it. Above all else you need to
Al Ghassan Motors (Lamborghini) . . . . 2,3
Oliveto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
believe in yourself and stick to your overall plan. Waiver and it might not
Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . 67
Romano’s Macaroni Grill . . . . . . . . . IFC
end as well as you would like.
EK. Kanoo (Motor City-Volvo) . . . . . . . . . 25
The Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . 89
Card of the Month — The Four of Wands
EK. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Upstairs Downstairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC
SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 January is going to be a positive month for your sign and there is likely to be a great deal going on so you will be busy and well occupied! With that in mind make sure you don’t burn yourself out too quickly because it is going to be a long few weeks and everything you put into play now will have an impact in some way over the remainder of this year. The fire of the Five of Wands will energise you so use it to your advantage. Card of the Month — The Five Of Wands
Jim Carrey
Elvis Presley
Michelle Obama
FAMOUS CAPRICORN THIS MONTH
JAC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Telecommunications
Mohd Jalal & Sons (Suzuki) . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Zain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
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 Jazira 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 ● 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.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
January 2016 127
lastword
Old Man’s Rant
GEG HOPKINS Disclaimer: Sentiments expressed in this article are DEFINITELY not those of the publisher since, essentially, they are nothing more than the ramblings of a ‘Grumpy Ole Git’. The January issue; so while we still can, let’s joyously wish everyone a ‘very happy New Year’ before it is removed from society as offensive, being deemed ‘politically incorrect’ to reference the ‘Gregorian’ — or dare it be said — Christian calendar as an entity (yes, the one named after Pope Gregory XIII in 1582). As yet, it has not experienced too many tyrannical PC bashings, but it no doubt will soon enough despite such a tiny weeny minority not adhering to or recognising it. Booooooo! ‘Donald, stop that’! To the point; with Donald on the march, will it be a happy new year? A dilemma perhaps, because secretly so many outside of the pseudo Illuminati reluctantly agree with some bits of Trump’s politically incorrect tirade. Seriously though, if 911 was one big conspiracy, then the Trump triumph smacks of ginormous collusion. Concentrate on ‘real reality’ now, stop watching inane pap and start looking at the irony of our existence laterally. Forget OMG and LOL; December 2015 jerked the semi intelligent of the world into WW3 fears, starting with ‘fearless’ Russia and um…. Turkey – and it wasn’t because a Turkish astronaut asked a Russian cosmonaut if he really wanted to live in a barren, lifeless landscape, to which the Russian replied; ‘No! That’s why we want a moon base’. It was an extremely nail biting incident which is by no means over, but the cowering silence from Europe is deafening as they er… lead us. Yet ‘ROFL’ (not), Trump (NATO for now) and Putin have never been closer. A viral article by Bill Bennett of Morning in America predicts Trump will be ‘accidentally’ topped (literally), long before he could ever become president because there are far too many dirty little fingers in the pot. Whacked by a colour-seeking ‘surface to hair missile’ perhaps? Imagine the fall out? Get in the queue Hilary and Jeb take your finger off that button. Hilary is now desperately dolloped upon us daily by global degenerate media and deviant egotists in so-called democratic governments, 128 January 2015
Donald Trump
just as they ‘dervishly’ Messiah’d Obama to one and all before. They incessantly project her as this ‘white knight- saint like’ philanthropist, but she has zero credibility with the American public at large. Then Trump caused the birth of ‘Saint Kardashian’ to be ignored completely. As yet, no Christians up in arms, but radicalised Jehovah Witnesses are refusing to take their fingers off doorbells. Described as; ‘A painful and traumatic birth’ (don’t worry Kim; the baby will get over it), is anyone surprised, plopping a saint out like that? Coming soon at Amazon; “The Gobspiel according to Saint Kardashian”? Wake up! Social media has challenged pap media as it dares to mention the tide of discontent brewing. Outside of the region, main-stream media ply migrant woes, but rarely, if at all, mention the daily occurrence of hundreds being blown up in neighbouring countries or Africa. Of course, this is a ‘Catch 22’ Islamic problem, which naturally most Muslims deny as being
Islamic, but in reality only Muslims can sort out. Oddly, Trump seems aware of this, merely sounding a deliberate ‘smell the roses’ call but knows full well that a US Muslim ban is a ludicrous non-starter. Because he’s loaded and doesn’t need them, the establishment hates The Donald as ‘all mouth (and certainly the…) trousers’. Trump has absolutely nothing to do with Hitler, the killing of Jews, ostracising decent Muslims or anything like, but the ‘political elite’ know full well that Trump is no joke and the woodwork is bursting with endless regurgitated clichéd ‘left’ media hate spew itself, which only strengthens Trump. Politically incorrect, had Trump carefully re-phrased the real intention, he would have had the establishment scurrying and squeezing into their well-worn orifices in fear of his somewhat ‘reality’ rhetoric which has seriously exposed this den of iniquity which has ruled for so long. Good game! www.bahrainthismonth.com