Bahrain This Month - July 2015

US AMBASSADOR | MIGRANT WORKERS PROTECTION SOCIETY | PORSCHE LAUNCH

Your Guide To A Great Way Of Life

www.bahrainthismonth.com

call to action on refugees France IN BAHRAIN Holy Month Events July 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 7

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

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Issue 215

Contents July 2015 Ramadan Kareem and Eid Mubarak from Redhouse Marketing

HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of July 2015: 25 Journey Through A Lens: A selection of photographs by artist Gaye Bentham

25

26 Ramadan Nights: Enjoy the Holy Month with a night market every Wednesday to Saturday at The Lagoon, Amwaj Islands 28 Burnout In Ramadan: The Bahrain International Circuit hosts the Burnout Ramadan Festival, with four action-packed rounds 30 Summerific Summer Club: Bright Beginnings hosts a Summer Camp for children of all ages

28

39

32 Arabic Play For Eid: Bahraini playwright Hamad Al-Shehabi, of Al Ahly Theatre Productions, presents An Appointment With His Excellency

INTERVIEWS 39 Young Talent Develops: Tech-savvy youngster Alex Panagis is flexing his entrepreneurial muscle with his website

46-47

48

40 Saving Bounties: A group of big-hearted volunteers are appealing to the Kingdom’s hotels and restaurants to lend a helping hand to the less fortunate this Ramadan.

42 A Helping Hand: The Migrant Workers Protection Society (MWPS) is calling on the public to notify authorities of blatant breaches of the Kingdom’s labour laws this Ramadan.

44-45 A Call to Action: BTM speaks to producer Mohab Khattab the man behind a ground-breaking documentary aimed at showing the very human face of Syria’s refugee crisis.

50-58

60 Bystander This month’s bystander pages find both the USA and Jordan celebrating independence days and Russia and Italy putting the flags out for their national days. Our busy photographers also attended the 16th birthday of Irish bar, JJ’s, joined friends saying farewell to HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, and snapped store openings and charity events across the island.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

46-47 A Safe Pair Of Hands: HE William Roebuck, US Ambassador, speaks to Bahrain This Month about his first few months in post and plans for the future in a difficult regional climate 48 JLR Backseat Chat Bahraini artist Abbas Al Mosawi chats to George F Middleton about his passion for art during a ride in a in a Jaguar XF

FEATURES Ramadan/Eid Feature 50-58 Eid Mubarak: BTM compiles your essential guide to the events and celebrations in a special report 59-79 A

France In Bahrain

special supplement on the economic, cultural and historic ties that exist between Bahrain and France July 2015 9

Issue 215

Contents July 2015 LIFESTYLE Motoring:

87

81 Model Line-up Expands in Bahrain: The new Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS arrives in the Kingdom 82 Exclusive deals: If you’re looking for the best deals on wheels, now is the perfect time to shop around.

85 Special Ramadan Promotion: Almoayyed Motors, sole dealer for Ford vehicles in Bahrain, is offering customers incredible prices on its entire range throughout the Holy Month 87 Exceptional Ramadan Offers: Take advantage of a range of special offers on new vehicles this Ramadan

Downtime:

96

81

94 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 96 Music: Top Tunes 97 Computer games: The hot games of the month 98 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 99 Apps: Sophisticated new apps 100 Movies: Mad Max: Fury Road

Dining:

103

107

103 Taste of Home: This Middle Eastern restaurant offers a fun and casual dining experience while getting really creative in the kitchen 105 Healthy Bites: The latest gastronomic indulgence at this chic eatery promises both great taste and health benefits 106 A taste of Americana: Known for its home-style cooking, this restaurant in the heart of Juffair now includes El Rancho Steakhouse & Cantina that serves up delicious Tex-Mex. 107 Oriental Treat: Take a culinary journey across Asia and sample its eclectic flavours at this popular restaurant.

Showcase:

94

100

99

109 What’s New: Must-have products 112-134 Marketplace: Latest products and services

Regulars:

137 WIN WIN 138 Tarotscope 139 AD Index 140 Last Word

109 www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2015 11

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month July 2015

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Editor Charlie Holding 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 Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Tara Vamadeven Pillai

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

Published monthly by

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

•

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

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

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

COVER Cover Picture:

Precious feelings for the Holy Month.

US AMBASSADOR | MIGRANT WORKERS PROTECTION SOCIETY | PORSCHE LAUNCH

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

CALL TO ACTION ON REFUGEES FRANCE IN BAHRAIN HOLY MONTH EVENTS July 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 7

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Eid Mubarak for mid-month by the way! Ramadan, together with summer, is always an interesting experience; a quieter than usual Holy Month did not, however, dampen the camaraderie and spirit of the many Iftars and Ghabgas held around town last month, as our Bystander pages bear testament to in this issue.

Our France in Bahrain report celebrates the long-standing relationship between the two countries, taking a look at France’s impact on the Kingdom. From business links and social clubs to fashion outlets across the island, there’s a stylish French touch to much of what we see and do this July.

In this issue, we give a detailed round up of everything you need to know about what is taking place in and around town. Also in this edition, we have exclusive interviews with technological whiz kid and probable future on-line entrepreneur, Alex Panagis, film-maker Mohab Khattab and US Ambassador William Roebuck, amongst others.

Check out snippets from our exclusive Backseat Chat interview with Abbas Al Mosawi (also available as a video podcast online) as he spills the beans on his passions and inspirations in life.

Ramadan provides an excellent opportunity to spend time with family and friends in the evenings, enjoying a meal, entertainment and socialising into the night. The Kingdom offers many venues where you can relax and engage in casual conversation, from the tents erected at major hotels, to cafés with sheesha and local restaurants. It’s a time to chill out, and this BTM feature will highlight where to go and how to find the best deals around town.

Wherever you go during the course of the month, take time to enjoy the great way of life that the Kingdom has to offer.

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Connect with Bahrain This Month: Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

Nightlife

July 2015 13

bystander

Jordan Independence Day HE Mohammed Ali Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador, and Lana Siraj hosted a reception to celebrate the 69th Independence Day of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the 16th anniversary of the accession of His Majesty King Abdulla II bin Al-Hussein to the throne and Jordanian Army Day. The reception was attended by His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Force Commander of the Special Royal Guard and First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports.

Dignitaries at the cutting of the cake

HE Mohammed Siraj & HH Shaikh Khalid

Yasmin & Sameh

Dina, Yassan, Omer & Amani

Dr Ahmed & Mohammed

Batool, Mansoor & Rahma

Majid & Leyla

Imad, Abdul Rahman & Ibrahim

Motaz & Haneen

Dr Sami, Abdulla & Marya

Aseel & Ummsiah

Bushra, Dana, Rania & Yasir

14 July 2015

Lana, Rihab, HE Taha Qadir & HE Mohammed Siraj

Fouzia, Esmiralda, Razan & Manal

Hadeel, Ahmed & Hilda

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bystander

Ann & HE William Roebuck

HE Iain Lindsay, Hussain & Henny

239th US Independence Day Celebrations The US Embassy in Manama celebrated the 239th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel. The event was attended by ministers and senior government officials, diplomats, businessmen, Shura Council members, members of parliament, academics and journalists.

Dignitaries cut the cake

Joshi, Simi & Nizar

HE Alberto Vecchi, Vice Admiral Miller, HE Sabine Taufmann, Romina & Gernot

Igor, Sanjida, Elena & Mehdi

Nada & Deema

Brad

16 July 2015

Tracy & Timothy

Anne, Valerie, Lisa & Crystal

HE Isa bin Abdulrahman Al Hammadi, Mohammed & HE Kamal Ahmed

Raymond, Wendy, Bridget & Jaap

Gavin & Dona

Deanna & Rebecca

Jenny & Shyam

HE Zayed Alzayani

Ed & Wendy

Mohammed

Laura & Natalie

Adbul Hamid

HE Hatun Demirer, Amanda, Mark, Abdul Jalil & Pamela

Will

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Italian National Day

HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, and Romina Vecchi, hosted a reception to mark Italian National Day at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Dignitaries at the cake-cutting

Roberto & HE Alberto Vecchi

Shaikh Khalifa bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Karim & Khamis

Ditta, Silvano, Paolo & Assumpta

Mirna & Basma

Rashid & Shaikh Salah

Simona & Vicky

Laylan, Sameera, Romina, Iro, Shandra, Tosin & Gheone

Tariq, HE Hatun Demirer & Mazin

Shahid, Dario & Vince

18 July 2015

Shaikh Abdulla Al Khalifa & Laura

Abdulrahman, Sherry, Debbie & Abdulla

Waleed, Mohammed, Shaikh Hisham Al Khalifa & Osama

Emma & Ricardo

Maya & her Hero

Filippo

Felipe

Beatrice

Elie

HE Dr Abdulla Al Shaikh & HE Abdulla Al Medailwi

HE Vichai Varasirikul, Nor Huda & Nilanthini

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Tatiana Garaeva & HE Vagif Garaev

Felix & Alex

Igor

Russian National Day HE Vagif Garaev, Russian Ambassador, and Tatiana Garaeva, hosted a reception to celebrate Russian National Day. The event was attended by ministers, ambassadors, businessmen and VIPs. HE Vagif Garaev, Sameera Rajab & HE Shaikh Azzam Al Sabah

Jawad, Nasser, HE Vagif Garaev & HE Mohammed Siraj

Ameen, Mohammed, Mazin, HE Vagif Garaev, Khalifa Rumaihi & HE Dato Ahmad Samad

Fatima & Yousif

Dmitry & Oxana

20 July 2015

Nilanthini, Nor Hayati, Nor Huda, Anne, Doris & Vanessa

HE Shaikh Jassem Al Thani, HE Ahmed Khattabi, HE Taha Qadir, HE Hatun Demirer & HE Vichai Varasirikul

Stephen, Tanvi & Islam

Ahmed & Ashraf

Natalia & Irina

Alia & Bader

Jean Paul

George, Habib & HE Dato Ahmad Samad

Elena, Irina, Mariana, Yulia & Sophie

Victoria & Olga

Antonia & Hussain

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Siju & Mohammed Bin Hindi

Bindi Hindi’s 50th Anniversary Bin Hindi Group marked its 50th anniversary with the unveiling of a new corporate identity for the entire group. The celebration was held at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel Residence & Spa with the attendance of ministers, ambassadors, government officials, management and staff.

x Khalid Bin Hindi, Nawaf Bin Hindi, Abdulla Bin Hindi, Shaikh Khalifa, Abdul Aziz Bin Hindi & Ahmed Bin Hindi

George, Bernard & Amin

Rami, Talal & Keshav

Dr Amr & Saeed

Santhosh, Priya & Kristine

HE Alberto Vecchi, HE William Roebuck, Jamal Fakhro, HE Iain Lindsay & HE Mohammed Siraj

Farewell Dinner Mr & Mrs Dadabhai hosted a reception at their residence to bid farewell to HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, and wife Bridget Lindsay.

Mohammed, Anisa, Bridget & HE Iain Lindsay

HE Ahmed Khattabi, HE Mohammed bin Yousif, Abdul Nabi, Dr Hassan, Hussain & Ebrahim

Mohammed & HE Iain Lindsay

22 July 2015

Fuaz & HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre

HE Hatun Demirer, Ahmed & George

Maria, Aziz & Juzer

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JULY

2015.

JOURNEY THROUGH A LENS

HAPPENINGS

When? Ongoing-August 31 Event? Photography Exhibition Venue? InTouch Gallery, InTouch Integrated Chiropractic Spine Center, Janabiya A selection of photographs by artist Gaye Bentham is on display at the InTouch Gallery, located in the InTouch Integrated Chiropractic Spine Center.

The exhibition, named Journeys, showcases images taken by the artist in Bahrain, India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Morocco, Cambodia, the UK and the US. Gaye, who was born in England, has a free spirit and love of adventure. Fate brought her to Bahrain in 1983 and her deep affection for this beautiful country has kept her here for over 30 years.

After retiring from working in a corporate environment, she pursued her passion for travel and photography, inspired by her love of life, art and culture. Gaye strives to capture emotive

images that communicate the beauty, wonder, mystery and occasional quirkiness she finds in the world.

The InTouch Integrated Chiropractic Spine Center regularly displays changing exhibitions of Bahrain-based artists’ work and is the only health care centre in Bahrain that promotes artists in a relaxed atmosphere different to that of a traditional gallery.

The exhibition opened last month and will run until August 31, with all the works on display for sale throughout summer. Opening timings are Sunday, Monday and Wednesday from 9am to 8pm and Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to 6pm.

Call 17 690-100 for more information.

CLICK AND WIN When? Ongoing-July 5 Event? Photography Competition Venue? Online All you click-friendly people out there, get your cameras at the ready and shoot away!

Canon Middle East has launched a regional photography competition #ComeandSeeMyArabia that will explore the creative vision of the participants and urge imaging enthusiasts to capture the beauty of their cities from a unique perspective. The contestants have to portray the distinctiveness of their cities and submit pictures to the Canon ME Facebook page.

The competition is open to nationals and residents of the Middle East and North, East and West Africa, with the winner taking home the grand prize of a Canon EOS 760 D camera along with a Canon PIXMA PRO-10S printer.

To provide further support to interested participants, Canon will share photography tips and tricks on its Facebook page, enabling them to take better photographs and submit

FOOTBALL FEVER

When? Ongoing-July 3 Event? Football Tournament Final Venue? Khalifa Sports City

In a month of hard-fought competition, 16 teams from across the island, many of them sponsored by local businesses, have battled it out for a place in the final of the Nasser 8 Football Tournament. The competition is expected to attract www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? Ongoing-July 3 Event? Nasser 8 Football Tournament Venue? Khalifa Sports City When? Ongoing-July 4 Event? Batelco Gaming League 2015 Round 2 Venue? Vortex Gaming Centre, Budaiya Highway, UpTown Village E Call 17 692-322 or visit www. gamingleague.me.

When? Ongoing-July 5 Event? Photography Competition #ComeandSeeMyArabia Venue? Online E Visit the Canon ME Facebook page.

When? Ongoing-July 5 Event? Sports Venue? Café Amsterdam, Adliya Watch the FIFA Women›s World Cup Canada 2015 in the restaurant’s sleek sports lounge on HD flat-screen TVs. E Call 17 007-404.

When? Ongoing-July 21 Event? Exhibition - The Sicily of the Leopard in Piraino’s Collection Venue? Bahrain National Museum A unique exhibition showcasing period costumes from Italy.

E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

their best entries for the competition.

The winning entries will be chosen by a judging panel of experts from Dubai’s leading photography institute, Gulf Photo Plus (GPP). GPP will look for the most well-composed, artistic and original image that evokes the best interpretation of the theme ‘unique perspectives of my Arabian city’.

The competition will close for entries on July 5.

Visit the Canon ME Facebook page for more information. a wide following of sport fans as well as a large number of non-professional talented players from all over the Kingdom supported by some international football professionals.

Spectators have the chance to win cash prizes at the event which is taking place under the patronage of HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Charity Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports and President of Bahrain Olympic Committee.

When? Ongoing-August 20 Event? Life Fit Summer Camp Venue? Hawar International School E Call 17 692-424 or Whatsapp 33 001-261.

When? Ongoing-August 31 Event? Photography Exhibition Journeys Venue? InTouch Gallery, InTouch Integrated Chiropractic Spine Center, Janabiya E Call 17 690-100.

When? Ongoing-September 30 Event? Kalila wa Dimna - Fables Through Time Venue? Bahrain National Museum Using stories from the famous collection of fables, Kalila wa Dimna, this interactive exhibit brings to life the characters, their relationships and lessons.

E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

July 2015 25

happenings

RAMADAN NIGHTS When? Throughout July Event? Music Venue? Mohamed bin Fares House Enjoy traditional music by Mohamed bin Fares band every Thursday at 8 pm.

E Visit www. shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

When? July1-4, July 8-11, July 15-18 Event? Ramadan Market Venue? The Lagoon, Amwaj Islands Enjoy the Holy Month of Ramadan with a night market every Wednesday to Saturday from 8.30pm to 1am.

Organised by 9 Dots media and events, the Lagoon Ramadan Nights will be held throughout this month and aim to create more opportunities for small and home-based businesses to be active in the community and to be able to promote and sell their products. It’s an opportunity for businesses to help build and maintain their client base by meeting, connecting and building rapport with both existing and prospective customers.

Onsite activities will be taking place throughout the events.

The products and services expected to be available include ladies’, gents’ and kids’ fashion, handbags, shoes,

PHOTOGRAPHIC MOMENTS

When? July 1-July 30 Event? Discover the Dinosaurs Summer Camp 2015 Venue? Budaiya Pre-School E Call 17 791-491.

jewellery and accessories, beauty products, cosmetics, home décor items , linens, curtains, sporting goods and clothing, perfumes, oud, chocolates, gifts, cakes, sweets, mobiles and accessories as well as electronic goods.

Call 17 500-173 for more information.

DISCOVER THE DINOSAURS When? July 1-July 30 Event? Summer Camp Venue? Budaiya Pre-School

26 July 2015

When? July 3, July 10 Event? Burnout Ramadan Festival Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) E Call the BIC hotline on 17 450-000 or visit www. bahraingp.com.

When? July 4, July 11 Event? Film Screenings Venue? Malja, Amwaj Islands Enjoy an evening of films - Exit Through the Gift Shop (2010) and Hamad and the Pirates (1971) or Wild Tales (2014) from 8pm to 10pm.

E Visit www.maljabahrain. com.

When? July 5-July 9, July 12-July 16 Event? BSB Summer Camp 2015 Venue? British School of Bahrain (BSB) E Call 17 610-943 or 17 610-973.

When? Ongoing-July 12 Event? Photography Competition Venue? Online Bahrain-based Junaid Perfumes has launched its second online photography competition as part of an initiative to improve interaction and enhance communication between customers and the company management.

“Junaid Moments” invites customers and Junaid Perfumes enthusiasts to upload a single picture of their favourite Junaid Perfumes product or product range under the hashtag #JunaidMoments on Facebook and Instagram.

The contest runs until July 12 with the winner being chosen based on the number of likes and responses to their image.

The first place winner will receive BD100 along with a BD20 voucher from Junaid Perfumes, while the second and third place winners will get vouchers worth BD50 and BD30 respectively.

The top three will also be pinned on the company’s official website.

Visit the Junaid Perfumes Facebook page to register or email competition@syedjunaidalam.com.

When? July1-4, July 8-11, July 15-18 Event? Lagoon Ramadan Nights Venue? The Lagoon, Amwaj Islands E Call 17 500-173.

Let your children enjoy summer in a safe and happy environment with Discover the Dinosaurs Summer Camp 2015 at the Budaiya Pre-School. The programme runs throughout the month for children aged between two and seven years. The camps will be held on July 1–2, July 5-9, July 12-16, July 19-23 and July 26-30, from 8.15am to 1pm.

Kids can enjoy a variety of creative, fun and challenging activities including discovering the land of dinosaurs exploring their habitat, food and names; investigating through science experiments, cooking, computer games and construction activities as well as reading and music.

There will also be various supervised outings and fun splash days in the school garden as well as water and sand play all in the cool indoors. Weekly visits to Yellow Submarine, Bahrain Science Centre, Papa Johns and Magic Planet are also planned.

The weekly fee for five days is BD55, three days is BD45 and two days is BD40.

There is also supervised transport for the Saar/Budaiya area.

Call 17 791-491 for more information.

When? July 5-15 Event? Summer Camp Venue? Hidd An Emotional Intelligence Through Drama workshop for children aged six to 16 years, Sunday to Wednesday, 11am to 2.30pm.

E Call/WhatsApp on 36 114-802 or 17 464-445.

When? July 5-16 Event? Summer Camp Venue? The Children’s House E Call 17 699-844 or visit www. thechildrenshousebahrain.com.

When? July 5-August 4 Event? Cheerleading Camp Venue? Oxygen Gym, Barbar E Email zubaricheer.bh@gmail. com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

BURNOUT IN RAMADAN When? July 5-August 20 Event? Summer Club Venue? Bright Beginnings, Adliya E Call 17 710-405 or 38 823-758.

When? July 3, July 10 Event? Motorsport Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC)

When? July 10-13 Event? Gymnastics Competition Venue? GymStars Gymnastics Club, Malta E Visit http://www.visitmalta. com/en/event-details/2014-07/ gymstars-international-womensartistic-competition-7575.

As every year, this Ramadan sees the return of a widely popular event as the BIC. The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East hosts the Burnout Ramadan Festival, with four spectacular rounds of burnout.

The event, which started last month, will conclude this month with the last two rounds taking place on July 3 and July 10 at the track in Sakhir. Competitors and motorsport fans are expected to flock from across the Gulf.

Open to motorsport enthusiasts of all skill levels, the Burnout Ramadan Festival offers the public a unique kind of thrill. Participants battle it out with one another with the aim of putting on the finest show raising white smoke and burning rubber while gracefully manoeuvring a predetermined course.

Entrants must meet specific eligibility criteria to take part and pay an entry fee of BD7 per driver. Those wishing to get in on the action as passengers may do so for a fee of BD2.

Spectators will be able to watch all the action on each of the burnout rounds for free. There will also be a VIP area

SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP When? July 5 - July 9, July 12 - July 16 Event? Summer Camp Venue? British School of Bahrain (BSB) Keep your children entertained this summer by sending them back to school but for pure fun this time as the BSB Summer Camp 2015 begins. The camp will be held for two weeks from July 5 to July 9 and from July 12 to July 16, Sunday to Thursday from 9am to 1pm.

The summer camp will offer activities such as arts and crafts, water games and sports, fun trips, ICT minecraft, cooking and baking as well as educational adventures.

The camps are priced at BD80 for one week and BD150 for two weeks or BD20 per day for a minimum of three days.

All children are welcome and places can be booked at the academies office at the BSB. Call 17 610-943 or 17 610-973 for more information.

28 July 2015

from where fans can enjoy the action from a special stand.

Entrance and parking at the VIP area is BD10 per car.

For more information on Burnout Ramadan Festival or other BIC activities, visit the circuit’s official website on or call the BIC Hotline.

Call the BIC hotline on 17 450-000 or visit www.bahraingp.com for more information.

When? July 13 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Coral Bay Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 207-624.

When? July 15 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Coral Bay Indulge in your love for poetry and hone your writing skills at Coral Bay, 7.30 pm.

E Call 39 207-624.

When? July 18-20 Event? Arabic Play by Bahraini playwright Hamad Al-Shehabi Venue? Alumni Club, Adliya E Call 39 664-540.

SUMMER PLAY When? July 5-16 Event? Summer Camp Venue? The Children’s House Keep the kids busy this month with water play and summer fun at The Children’s House Montessori Nursery School. The two-week summer camp will be held from July 5 to July 16, from 9am to 1pm.

Children will have a chance to indulge in fun and engaging daily activities including cooking, crafts, stories, water play, singing, dancing and more.

The school’s shaded outside area will be transformed into a water play area, where kids will be free to splash around and enjoy fun games in a safe and stimulating environment.

The camp is priced at BD50 per week or BD12 per day (minimum three days required).

Call 17 699-844, email info@thechildrenhousebahrain. com or visit www.thechildrenshousebahrain.com for more information.

When? July 20 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Creative Workshop Venue? Coral Bay Learn how to work on your creative writing skills with a workshop at Coral bay, 7.30pm.

E Call 39 207-624.

When? July 25-August 22 Event? Cartoons & Illustrations workshop Venue? Cartoon Planet, Tubli E Call 36 791-878, 77 008-849 or visit www.cartoon-planet. com.

When? July 26-August 27 Event? Summer Camp Venue? Talk, Play, Grow, Business Bay, Juffair E Call 38 292-331 or visit www.talkplaygrowbh.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings

A RISING STAR It is a proud moment for Bahrain and 10-yearold Sophie Emily Moir, who will be representing the Kingdom at an international gymnastics competition this month.

Gymstars International Women’s Artistic Championships will be held at GymStars Gymnastics Club in Malta from July 10 to July 13.

Coming from a sporty family, Sophie started with baby gym and then took up the sport again with a friend at the age of six. A student of St Christopher’s School, she has broken running records and has won numerous gymnastic competitions in the region.

The Gymstars International competition format is Team and Individual participation and is divided into six categories. The aim is to give budding gymnasts an opportunity to compete internationally in a friendly environment.

The Middle East Gymnastics Association (MEGA) team is made up of 17 gymnasts from Dugym Dubai and Dubai Olympic, one from Abu Dhabi and Sophie, the only participant from Bahrain. She is also the youngest member of the team and is in the top section.

In preparation for the competition, Sophie went to Dubai for two days training with the MEGA

When? July 10-13 Event? Gymnastics Competition Venue? GymStars Gymnastics Club, Malta

girls and coaches to get to know them better before going to Malta.

“She has trained in private gyms here and when we’ve gone back to the UK,” says Sophie’s mother Karen Moir. “Sophie trains about 12 hours every week and she eats very healthily and naturally to make sure she has enough energy. Because of Sophie’s high standard, she has been competing in open age.”

“But when I go to Malta, I will be in the 10-12 age group,” says Sophie “They give you skills you have to do and then they give you harder skills to make the difficulty go up and there are points for it.”

“She will have to do the floor, bars, beams and vaults,” says Karen “I like the floor – it’s my favourite because I like twisting,” says Sophie. “I also like the bars because you get to swing around.”

“My dream is to go to the Olympics and then open my own gym.”

Apart from gymnastics, Sophie also likes dancing, swimming, ice skating and aquathlons.

Visit http://www.visitmalta.com/en/eventdetails/2014-07/gymstars-internationalwomens-artistic-competition-7575 for more information.

SUMMERIFIC SUMMER CLUB When? July 5-August 20 Event? Summer Camp Venue? Bright Beginnings, Adliya

Let your children have fun and learn at the same time with Bright Beginnings Day Care & Child Development Centre’s summer club, from Sunday to Thursday, 8.30am to 1pm (including Eid week).

The summer club is open to children of all ages: Munchkins (playgroups for three to 12 months and one to three year olds), Playtime Pals (clubs for three to five year olds) and Incredibles (for kids aged five to seven and seven to 11 years).

Children will be able to attend all types of activities including kids’ yoga, storytelling and drama, sensory and soft play, splash day, cooking, music and movement, bricks for kidz, taekwondo, eco arts and crafts, brain body dynamics, ballet and discovery days.

Morning and afternoon care is also available from 7.30am to 5pm. There are daily rates for playgroups and weekly rates for clubs.

Call 17 710-405 or 38 823-758 for more information.

CHEER ON! When? July 5-August 4

Event? Cheerleading Camp

Venue? Oxygen Gym, Barbar

If you’re looking for a fun new activity for your children this month, then why not enrol them in a cheerleading camp? Hala Zubari will be instructing Bahrain’s very first Beginners Cheerleading Camp from July 5 to August 4 at Oxygen Gym in Barbar.

Classes are open to both girls and boys and are held twice a week on Sundays and Tuesdays – one hour for Mini Lulus (ages 4-7) from 9am to 10am and two hours for Junior Danas (ages 8-16) from 11am to 1pm.

30 July 2015

Packages are priced at BD70 for Lulus, BD140 for Danas, BD45 for private (for a group of five kids for one hour) and BD8 for drop in. A family discount for ages eight to 16 is also available.

Training kits are included for packages, except privates and drop ins, which include T-shirt, shorts or leggings and cheer bow for girls and T-shirt, shorts and bandana for boys.

Email zubaricheer.bh@gmail.com for a registration pack. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

ARABIC PLAY FOR EID When? July 18-20 Event? Arabic Play Venue? Alumni Club, Adliya

A prominent member of Bahrain’s theatre community and awardwinning Bahraini playwright, Hamad Al-Shehabi of Al Ahly Theatre Productions will present his latest production An Appointment With His Excellency on the first three days of Eid.

An accomplished writer since 1979, Hamad has written more than 300 TV drama series for productions in six countries and over 16 theatre plays that have won him various recognitions and awards. He is also the screen writer of three successful feature films, and has written more than 50 short stories. He has found success in historical writing with the novel Love in The Life of Napoleon Bonaparte, followed by his latest English novel Van Gogh, which was published in the US in 2014.

The play, directed by Ghada Al Faihani, is a community-oriented comedy set in the workplace with

well-known contributing actors from Kuwait and Bahrain.

The production will attract a diverse audience from the GCC, including young adults and families and has a seating capacity of 600 people per show, with up to two shows a day over the Eid holidays. Each show runs for up to two hours.

In the spirit of Ramadan, Al Ahly Theatre Productions is supporting charitable initiatives in Bahrain, with proceeds from the performance going towards the Batelco Care Centre for Family Violence.

Tickets are priced at BD8.

Call 39 664-540 for more information.

LEARN CARTOONING When? July 25-August 22 Event? Cartooning Venue? Cartoon Planet, Tubli

Learn some fun skills over the summer as Cartoon Planet launches its “Cartoons & Illustrations” workshop. Led by Bahraini cartoonist Mohammed Al-Mahdi, the workshops will be held for four weeks from July 25 to August 22 on Saturday, Monday and Wednesday at the Cartoon Planet centre in Tubli. Classes for kids are from 5pm to 6.30pm and for adults from 7pm to 8.30pm. The workshop is priced at BD85 including tools and materials.

During the Eid holidays, Cartoon Planet will be conducting live cartooning sessions in Seef Mall for three days. This event is free for the public.

Live cartooning sessions can also be booked for Ramadan events.

Call 36 791-878, 77 008-849 or visit www.cartoon-planet.com for more information.

ADVENTUROUS SUMMER July 26-August 27 Summer Camp Talk, Play, Grow, Business Bay, Juffair

Put your reading hats on and join Talk, Play, Grow (TPG) for a wonderful adventure this summer with the TPG Summer Camp. The sessions are for children aged two to five years and will be held from July 26 to August 27, 32 July 2015

Sunday to Thursday, from 9am to midday.

Children can enjoy reading and exploring different themes and stories every week, followed by arts and crafts activities, sensory play, dance and movement, pottery painting, Baby Clay fitness classes and much more.

With an indoor grass area, a pretend play home corner and a creative messy play corner, children are bound to have a great time exploring, creating and playing.

The programme includes “We Are Going on a Bear Hunt” from July 26 to July 30, “Very Hungry Caterpillar” from August 2 to August 6, “Dots” from August 9 to August 13, “Pete the Cat & Shoes” from August 16 to August 20 and “Gingerbread Man” from August 23 to August 27.

The camp fees are BD40 per week or BD175

for five weeks, with a maximum of 20 kids per week.

Call 38 292-331, email info.talkplaygrow@ gmail.com or visit www.talkplaygrowbh.com for more information. www.bahrainthismonth.com

BD

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bystander

Somudra Joy Visits Bahrain A reception was held on board the Bangladesh Navy’s largest platform, Somudra Joy, which docked in Bahrain at the Mina Salman Port.

Mamun, HE Maj Gen Mominur Rahman, Mohammed & Afzal

Jean Paul & Hathai

Sanjida, Mehdi, Mohammed & Mukta

Dr Abeer & Dr Khalid

Gani, Mohammed & Farooq

Mohammed & Mani

HE Chilman Arisman & Nilanthini

Mazhar, Nabil & Emran

Mehrin

Mohammed & Mehmet

Younis, Mohammed & Asli

Saeed & Vineeth

Emrah, Mustafa & Musthafa

Emily

Turkish Festival A Turkish Festival featuring cultural events, arts & crafts and traditional food, was inaugurated by Turkish Ambassador, HE Hatun Demirer, at Ramli Mall.

HE Hatun Demirer inaugurates the festival

Fayza & Zahra

34 July 2015

Yural & Aylin

Sebahat, Nooran, Asli & Yesim

Jack & Novelle

Dr Majid, Murad & Dr Gulnur

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Enterprise Conference Batelco and Avaya collaborated to deliver the Enterprise Technologies Conference, at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel, Residence & Spa. Officials at the launch

Hussain & Zain

Sam, Danny & Nilesh

Kamal & Syed

Adel, Hassan & Hussain

Hassan & Hassan

Said & Atif

Sayed, Hassan & Ahmed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Layla, Khulood & Maysa

Hamdi & Philip

Nabeel & Kamal

July 2015 35

bystander

Canon Launch

The new Canon Color Digital Production Press C800 was launched during an event held at the Crowne Plaza by Intercol.

Management and staff at the launch

Dinesh

Haitham

Menon, Jayakumar & Dinesh

Sundaram & Jijin

Amer & Marise

Movak & Alex

Mohammed & Saeed

HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre & Ibrahim Assaf

Mauri & Indira

Yukiko & Daisuke

Maki Dinner Maki restaurant held a special dinner featuring an exclusive and specially-crafted Akagome menu prepared by award-winning chef Louis Kenji Huang. The event was attended by VIPs, ambassadors & dignitaries.

Guests try out the new menu

Luiza, Mohammed & Wael

36 July 2015

HE Dato Ahmed Shahizan & Amer

HE Alberto Vecchi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

66 July 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

YOUNG TALENT DEVELOPS CHARLIE HOLDING Tech-savvy youngster Alex Panagis is flexing his entrepreneurial muscle with a website dedicated to creating fun and informative content for photographers, videographers and tech-lovers alike.

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lex’s love of technology and photography is obvious from the moment he opens his mouth, divulging to BTM, in detail, the inner workings of his incredible endeavour.

“About three years ago I picked up my first camera, started shooting in auto mode and had no idea what I was doing in photography,” Alex explains. “I didn’t know whether I would pursue it or not, but since then I have been learning to develop into the person I am now. I had quite a difficult, yet enjoyable time finding my way as a young photographer.”

The website is linked to Alex’s YouTube channel and social media accounts, giving his 25,000 visitors access to his pictures, videos and tutorials.

The 14-year-old – who hopes to study computer science and software development at university – has grown up with technology and credits his father Panos for teaching him the basics.

However, his creativity was unleashed following his purchase of a Nikon D7100 camera.

“At first, I shot everything on my phone but after www.bahrainthismonth.com

I got the camera I decided I was going to learn how to use it properly,” he says.

And, sure enough, he quickly learned the ropes and www.the-photographyblog.com was born.

According to Alex, his first video wasn’t anything special, but his dedication has seen his tutorials and reviews improve dramatically over the year.

“There are a lot of YouTubers; it’s trial and error and I watched other people to figure out how to do things properly,” he explains. “There are a lot of different things you can do on a YouTube channel – from covering events, how to videos, reviews – and that is what my channel was built around.”

After the first video, a company called Think Tank Photo - a US-based manufacturer that designs and sells camera bags and accessories – took an interest in Alex.

“They sent me a bag and I did a review on my channel. They shared it and that was the start of everything, when I realised something could come out of it,” he says.

Balancing his technological pet projects with his studies was no easy task and Alex set himself guidelines to help.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 40 SAVING BOUNTIES 44 A CALL FOR ACTION

“I struggled at the start and I published an article about it. I only work on my website at the weekend, especially on content and videos. I start work on a Saturday early in the morning, thinking of ideas, and the filming starts about an hour after I start setting up because I get distracted and take time to get everything right.”

Being tech-savvy runs in the family and Alex’s brother Yannis also has his own YouTube channel.

“My brother’s channel started before mine, and I really enjoyed filming for him and I don’t think mine would have ever come about without his,” Alex says. “It was a starting point, a steppingstone towards my own. It’s where I got experience with cameras, it was very beneficial.”

When it comes to photography, Alex doesn’t believe it is possible to take a ‘perfect picture’ but he maintains that sometimes, some pictures are special.

“When you take a shot there’s always that moment when you know this image is different from the other ones,” he says.

To view Alex’s work, vist www.thephotographyblog.com July 2015 39

interview

Saving Bounties Manaf with society vice president Ahmed Al Mahmood

CHARLIE HOLDING A group of big-hearted volunteers are appealing to the Kingdom’s hotels and restaurants to lend a helping hand to the less fortunate this Ramadan.

40 July 2015

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uring the Holy Month, the Kingdom comes alive with spectacular Iftar and Ghabga celebrations. However, tables laden with quality food are cleared every night and thousands of meals are thrown away.

This shocking trend of discarding perfectly edible food made a group of individuals to get together to help make a difference. Na3masave was formed almost two years ago by chairman Manaf Al-Anni who was inspired by a group in Saudi that began packaging untouched meals and distributing them to disadvantaged people.

Manaf says: “If you attend any big event like a wedding or funeral, there are huge buffets and, more often than not, there are plenty of untouched meals left over. The amount of food that goes to waste is extraordinary and around 500 meals per event are thrown away.

“I was inspired by the operation in Saudi and wanted to bring the concept to Bahrain. We want to raise awareness that repackaged food is clean, fresh and edible so instead of it ending up in the trash, it can be given to people who need it.”

The society’s name comes from the Arabic phrase ‘sharing the bounty’, which is exactly what the team is hoping to do. “We want to help as many people as possible, not just during Ramadan, but throughout the entire year,” says Manaf.

Although they don’t prepare the food themselves, the Na3masave team knows that hygiene has a major role when it comes to handling food. To ensure cleanliness, volunteers receive training and take precautions such as wearing gloves and hairnets in compliance with quality assurance standards.

The society also insists on strict quality control and, to ensure food is up to standard, members test and sample it first.

“We wouldn’t give food to someone else that we ourselves wouldn’t eat,” Manaf explains. “The types of food we deal with are very important. Meat, rice and bread are good but vegetables and dairy spoil quickly so we avoid them. The idea is to package up the food quickly and deliver it to our beneficiaries while it’s still warm.”

However, ensuring warm food for hungry people is no small feat and Manaf says that the society needs a minimum of 12 hours notice before members can show up to collect and package the food.

“Set up an appointment with us as far ahead of time as possible, it will make life easier,” he explains. “We want people to make it a habit that every time they call a caterer, they call us too so that we can be on standby.”

Manaf says the society’s success is a result of the tireless efforts of the volunteers, participating companies and the Ministry of Social Affairs.

With Ramadan in full swing, Na3masave is encouraging volunteers and people in the catering and hospitality industry to come forward to help make a difference.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

A Helping Hand

CHARLIE HOLDING The Migrant Workers Protection Society (MWPS) is calling on the public to notify authorities of blatant breaches of the Kingdom’s labour laws this Ramadan.

Many migrant workers live in squalid conditions such as the ones features here

42 July 2015

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s temperatures begin to soar and the humidity rises, thousands of workers across Bahrain are at risk of being exploited by unscrupulous employers who flout the government’s guidelines for working hours during the summer months.

The law states that labourers should abstain from working between the noon to 4pm during July and August to avoid potentially heat-related injuries. Add to this, people fasting during Ramadan, and the results could be deadly.

MWPS general secretary, Beverley Hamadeh, says it is up to the public to report any violations.

“It’s not only up to NGOs like us to make a noise, it’s up to everyone. If you see something like that going on, make an effort to report it – the Ministry of Labour has a hotline,” she says.

“Every year we raise the subject and the government makes sure that companies who don’t obey the law are prosecuted and fined.

What we would really like to see is the ban on certain working hours extended for another month, which would be a great help.”

However, sometimes, it is the workers themselves who flout the law, as Beverley explains. “Working between 12 and 4pm is supposed to make things easier but, for some, it makes things harder. The workers have to make up that time – they either have to come too early in the morning or too late at night. Some would rather work through the hot hours so that they can go home in time to cook dinner, clean, shower and sleep.”

The MWPS mission statement is to seek to help expatriate workers achieve their basic human rights in accordance with internationally- recognised standards.

“We are the only society in the region to work

exclusively in support of the expatriate worker community, as far as we are aware,” says MWPS chairperson, Marietta Dias.

“This is not a job that people can easily do – it takes a lot of time, dedication and unwavering commitment. When we help peolple, it’s worth every moment.”

The society also provides temporary accommodation in its shelter for females, arranges medical treatment and legal services and finances visa fees and airline tickets for repatriation.

MWPS provides expatriate workers with translators and members are actively engaged in all follow-up work related to their cases. This involves frequent, often daily visits to police stations, manpower agencies, the Ministry of Labour, LMRA, embassies, GDNPR, hospitals, Public Prosecution and the courts.

However, much remains to be done to improve the rights of migrant workers and to ensure safe, secure and fair working conditions for the more than half a million workers who leave their homelands in search of a better life for themselves and their families, the organisation says.

“We would like to see the existing labour and anti-trafficking laws enforced more uniformly and more rigorously,” says Marietta. “We would like to see the labour law extended to include domestic workers in all its provisions; we would like to see speedier resolutions from the courts and we would like to see the establishment of a shelter for men.”

The MWPS recently marked its 10-year anniversary but its members – comprised of volunteers from many nationalities – say this isn’t a cause for celebration.

“It marks our dedication as a group,” Marietta says. “However, the goal is to reach a point where we are no longer needed.”

MWPS remains extremely grateful for the cooperation it receives from government agencies and recognises Bahrain’s maturity in permitting it to do this work.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview Mohab with wife Eva, his inspiration

A Call to Action LIZ O’REILLY BTM speaks to producer Mohab Khattab the man behind a groundbreaking documentary aimed at showing the very human face of Syria’s refugee crisis.

44 July 2015

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t’s impossible to pick up a paper or listen to the news without hearing stories of refugees killed as they attempt to sail to freedom or swamping host nations as they arrive in their thousands fleeing war and persecution in their homelands.

June 20 was World Refugee Day and also the day the film Salam Neighbor had its world premiere at AFI Docs, one of the world’s most important documentary film festivals.

Directed and produced by Chris Temple and Zach Ingrasci, who shone the uncomfortable spotlight on world poverty with their film Living on One Dollar.

Produced by Bahrain resident Mohab, Salam Neighbor follows the pair as they deliberately head to the edge of war, just seven miles from the Syrian border, to live among 85,000 uprooted refugees in Jordan’s Za’atari camp.

Mohab says: “They are the first filmmakers the United Nations has ever allowed to register and set up a tent inside a refugee camp. Zach and Chris were plunged into the heart of the world’s most pressing humanitarian crisis – described by the UN as ‘the worst since World War II’.”

Through the rhythm of daily routines and moments www.bahrainthismonth.com

The worst humanitarian crisis since WWII

shared over meals and cups of tea with their new neighbours, they get an insider’s perspective on a modern day refugee camp, and the people inside it who are forced to restart their lives and redefine the meaning of home.

Zach and Chris uncover inspiring stories of individuals rallying, against all odds, to rebuild their lives and those of their neighbours. They show the tension and heartbreak that shape life on the edge of this conflict and the sense of hope that emerges as people choose peace over war and try to overcome violence, homelessness and despair.

“The idea of the film and the title, Salam Neighbor or hello neighbour or peace neighbour, is to show that these are people just like us, they could easily be our neighbours,” says Mohab. “This crisis is on such a huge scale, not just in Syria but worldwide – figures show there are over 3 million Syrian refugees outside the country and over 6.5 million displaced within Syria and there are 54 million refugees worldwide – that you begin to see refugee fatigue.”

“What we want people to bear in mind is that any of us could become refugees in the morning. You don’t stop being human, you have the same everyday problems to deal with and, what the film shows, is people triumphing over adversity, so in that way it’s very positive.”

The film is Mohab’s first documentary as producer, he became interested in the genre after his wife Eva took a course in documentary production and the couple began organising film nights at their home.

A practicing international attorney, he partnered with Palestinian American Salam Darwaza, an old friend from Aramco, and they formed 1001 MEDIA to develop films that shine a light on the humanity of the Arab world to www.bahrainthismonth.com

counteract the negativity in the international media. Salam Neighbor, the company’s first film, was born when Salam’s own story of growing up as the daughter of Palestinian refugees inspired Chris and Zach to collaborate with 1001 MEDIA to bring awareness to the Syrian refugee crisis.

It took the team a year of hard work to get UN approvals for the project. Even then, the UN said they would need permission to film from either Jordan or Lebanon, which have, so far, received the vast majority of those displaced by the Syrian violence. Having studied with the Jordanian king in the US, Mohab used this to his advantage to gain the final approvals for the ground-breaking project that he hopes will make an impact.

But, though Salam Neighbor has gained a place as a one of only eight special screenings at AFI Docs, there is much more to this project than the documentary.

Mohab says: “It will be supplemented with an impact campaign that will include various initiatives, including fundraising for three leading refugee organisations serving the Syrian

refugees; The UN Refugee Agency, the International Rescue Committee, and Save the Children. Before its launch, the film has already raised nearly USD40,000 for these organisations A second, much larger initiative will follow once the film is distributed.

“We want this to be a call to action on the worldwide refugee crisis, something that will humanise refugees, take away the stigma and inspire as many people as possible to help refugees around the world.”

The screening was also backed up by a panel that included the ambassadors from Jordan and Lebanon to the US and a Syrian American humanitarian worker who spoke about the refugee crisis.

Fundraising: (https://www.crowdrise.com/ SalamNeighborFilm).

Film Website: http://www.salamneighbor.org.

Social Media Handles and Hashtags: #SalamNeighbor . @LivingonOne @1001_MEDIA

July 2015 45

interview

HE William Roebuck, US Ambassador

A Safe Pair of Hands LIZ O’REILLY

With US Independence Day approaching, HE William Roebuck, US Ambassador, speaks to Bahrain This Month about his first few months in post and plans for the future in a difficult regional climate.

46 July 2015

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mbassador Roebuck arrived in the Kingdom at the beginning of the year, but he is no stranger to the Arab world. He explains: “Before I joined the State Department I taught English in Taif, Saudi Arabia. I spent six years and met my wife there and have spent a great deal of time in the region ever since. I have truly enjoyed exploring the varied landscapes and environments here and interacting with the diverse spectrum of people across the region. I have served all over the Middle East, from Tripoli to Jerusalem to Baghdad, and really enjoyed getting to know the different customs, languages and histories of this fascinating part of the world.”

There was some controversy attached to the previous US Ambassador Tom Krajeski, but His Excellency is quick to pay tribute to his predecessor saying: “I’ve said before that this relationship [between the US and Bahrain] is far greater than one ambassador or one entity. It is a strong, multifaceted relationship and it will only get stronger as we work together to constantly expand and build upon it. I am very appreciative of

Ambassador Thomas Krajeski for his exemplary leadership of the US Mission here in Bahrain and the important relationships and partnerships that he forged during his tenure.

“I think that this relationship is in the safe hands of the people of both countries that have worked so hard together to build up such a robust partnership. I feel very privileged to be able to serve as the US Ambassador here and to contribute to this incredibly important bilateral relationship.”

And acknowledging the Bahraini leadership’s role, he adds: “As we have said time and again, His Majesty King Hamad deserves great credit for his role in fostering reform and dialogue in the country, from his support of the National Action Charter of 2002, through his endorsement of the recommendations of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) and to more recent support for National Dialogue in 20132014. I look forward to working closely with the Government of Bahrain under the leadership of His Majesty the King and to working with all Bahrainis to assure a prosperous, secure and peaceful future for www.bahrainthismonth.com

The ambassador highlighted the USA’s support to the region

our two nations and the entire Gulf region.”

Speaking of plans for his term in office Ambassador Roebuck says: “It is more important than ever that our governments continue to work together to confront shared challenges. The United States stands ready to support Bahrain as a friend and partner, with respect and appreciation for the role that Bahrainis have played in advancing the values shared by our two great nations.

“I also see quite a bit of opportunity for expanding our economic co-operation and our commercial team actively works with both US and Bahraini businesses to strengthen commercial ties. I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Ministry of Industry & Commerce and the Economic Development Board to coordinate efforts to promote and expand the US-Bahrain trade relationship. The United States only has Free Trade Agreements with 20 countries worldwide, and Bahrain was the first Gulf country to sign an FTA with the United States (entered into force August 2006). It took several years and hundreds of people to negotiate and implement the FTA and we see it is one of the key tools we have in building our economic partnership.”

The ambassador also points out his government’s commitment to supporting security in the region in light of the range of ever-escalating conflicts. “The United States is committed to working with our partners in this region to addressing the very real external threats that exist here,” he says. “President Obama met with the leadership from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries last month to reaffirm the US strategic partnership with the Gulf States, our shared concern about Iran’s destabilising activities in the region and our www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fighting in Yemen is on the agenda

mutual commitment to take steps necessary to enhance stability in the Gulf and de-escalate tensions. The summit also presented us with a unique chance to discuss ways to resolve the multiple conflicts that have caused so much hardship and instability throughout the Middle East. Specifically, our discussions focused on seeking common approaches to resolving the conflicts in Iraq, Libya, Syria and Yemen.”

When he is not engaged in affairs of state, Ambassador Roebuck is making the most of his time on the ‘Island of Smiles’. He says: “I’ve been in Bahrain for about six months and have truly enjoyed my time here thus far. I don’t think I have ever been welcomed more openly and

met so many incredibly friendly people in such a short amount of time. I’ve already seen firsthand the incredible depth or our two countries’ people-to-people relationship and the multitude of issues and endeavors that we cooperate on. I look forward to meeting and working with many more of our Bahraini friends and colleagues in the near future.

“My wife recently joined me here in Bahrain and our son is visiting us during his summer break from university. I have enjoyed introducing them to all of the wonderful people I’ve met so far and we continue to explore all of the different attractions that Bahrain has to offer.”

July 2015 47

interview

To view the video, scan the QR Code, or visit www.bahrainthismonth.com.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER

BACKSEAT CHAT His infectious energy has a childlike quality to it, yet his artistic pursuits deliver the most profound of messages. We find out more about Abbas Al Mosawi and his art.

48 July 2015

Picasso once said: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”

Bahraini artist Abbas Al Mosawi is a great example of how to overcome this problem. He has chronicled the changing landscape of Bahrain through his outstanding paintings over the years. One of the key players in the development of Bahrain’s art and photography scene, his works carry messages of peace, nostalgia and, above all, happiness.

He joins George Middleton for a chat about his passions and journey as an artist in a Jaguar XF, enjoying the ride across Amwaj Islands.

Art was a big part of his life growing up, as his father, who learnt camera for films in India in the 40s, was an avid collector.

“He brought with him a lot of art pieces and our house was filled with them. He gave names to all the rooms like ‘Peace’ and ‘Paradise’; all this really touched me,” he says. Later on he, along with some friends, created an art club, painting and practising in a small studio on the roof of his father’s house.

Abbas’s artistic journey started in the 1970s. He began learning his craft first under the tutelage of the Bahraini artist Ahmed Baqer before heading to Cairo where he was introduced to the works of some of the greatest impressionists of all time. He considers Sabry Ragheb as the ‘prince of painters’ and is greatly

Abbas Al Mosawi with George F Middleton

influenced by Claude Monet. “I tirelessly followed his works to see how he adds magic and spirit to paintings,” he adds.

Abbas made several visits to Claude Monet’s garden, which inspired him to produce around 300 pieces, all of which have been sold around the world.

“I also like other impressionists like Van Gogh and Seurat. Some of my work in the beginning was in Seurat’s style, you see Bahrain in his technique.”

One of his works inspired by this style is a painting of Bahrain’s royal family, which is on display in the Prime Minster’s office.

Abbas claims that art immediately lifts his spirits, saying: “I am a happy person, full of colour and I want to spread this happiness with my art.

“My palate is so rich; my message to people is that I am there with all this colour and you should be close to me.”

In 1991, he laid the foundation of what later became Project Peace, by creating a painting on the ongoing Gulf war. This was a result of non-stop work over 24 hours, and was an appeal to those in power to stop fighting.

His greatest inspiration as an artist is nature. He says: “I like listening to the music of the air, water and light and through art I can combine them into one concept.”

Watch the interview on Bahrain This Month’s website and Youtube channel. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Charles & Carol

Sally, Mira & Alex

Amy & Sachi

Beatrice, David & Rebecca

BSB Ball The British School of Bahrain’s Annual Leavers Ball was held at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Bhavika, Jessica, Jemma & Claire

Anwar & Laura

William & Sadia

Mualim Dinner Reception

Tala & Ali

Ghazi & Aya

Tariq & Nicole

Lindsay & John

Mrs and Mr Mualim held a double celebration reception on the birth of their first grandson Mohammed Hussain Mualim, son of Gulam and Shamla, and the wedding of Riyadhudeen Mualim with Noorul Afsana.

Irfan, Raashid, Danish, Shameena, Shamla, Gulam, Riyadh, Afsana, Raseena & Najwa

Yousif, Abbas, Nabeel, Mohammed & Abduljabbar

Nabeel, Jawad, Othman, Khalid, Balkis, Deema, Huda & Mualim

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jawad, Ahlam, Mualim & Khalid

Nasreen, Naser & Mualim

July 2015 49

ramadan & eid

Eid Mubarak

The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa Award-winning restaurant La Med invites you on the second day of Eid for a decadent spread of festive treats from the region and around the world. Indulge in this lavish buffet while musical duo Richard and Kim fill the air with melodies. Priced at BD31 net per person inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages.

Call 17 586-499.

The K Hotel Celebrate the second day of Eid at The K Hotel’s Klouds restaurant. The elaborate brunch promises a variety of starters, mains and desserts. Prices start from BD14.5++.

Call 17 360-000.

Novotel Al Dana Resort Zytoun Restaurant, at this beautiful beach-side property, hosts an Arabic brunch for Eid. Enjoy freshly made shawarmas, delicious grills and a host of other gourmet preparations.

Call 17 298-008.

This is one of the most anticipated times of the year, when an entire month’s fast ends in celebration.

Make the holidays even more special at these Eid brunches.

Read on for tips and offers

Literally ‘the festival of breaking fast’, Eid Ul Fitr is one of the most important festivals in the Muslim calendar.

And what better way to celebrate the culmination of month-long abstinence than by indulging in the choicest of delicacies! The Kingdom’s food and beverage industry brings out the best of its culinary repertoire and here are some options you can try.

Al Areen Palace & Spa For all three days of Eid, the hotel hosts a brunch from 12.30pm to 4pm at the Wadi Tent. This fiesta features a lavish buffet replete with a host of entertainment. There will be several live cooking stations, grilling fine cuts of meat and the catch of the day, to perfection. Expect a live band to fill the air with festive tunes.

Call 17 845-000.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Eid festivities commence at the hotel at Al Bahrain Ballroom with a stellar buffet from 12.30pm to 4pm.

You’re in for live cooking stations, delicious Bahraini and international food and a vibrant family atmosphere.

Hosted on the first day of Eid it is priced at BHD 26++.

Call 17 115-500.

Gulf Hotel Adliya’s landmark property invites you for a special Eid brunch at Al Waha restaurant. You can also enjoy a set menu at Zahle restaurant with live entertainment.

Call 17 713-000.

Crowne Plaza The hotel is hosting an Eid lunch buffet at La Mosaique restaurant. Priced at BD13++ per person, it features lipsmacking food and activities such as balloon twisting and face painting to keep the kids entertained throughout the day.

Call 17 531-122.

Al Safir Hotel & Tower The hotel’s Yalla Yalla restaurant welcomes you to BAHRY, which means the fish market. Savour fresh catch from the local market after getting it cooked to your liking. BAHRY will run during the whole week of Eid. Call 17 827-999.

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa It’s a massive feast on the second day of Eid at Lemon Tree restaurant. Enjoy a delectable buffet spread, replete with Middle Eastern favourites, fresh juices and classic dishes from around the world. The brunch will run from noon to 4pm and is priced at BD18++.

Call 17 111-999.

50 July 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

SEEF MALL

Shop & Win Returns This Ramadan, shop at any Seef Mall and enjoy the ultimate shopping experience plus the chance to win a range of incredible prizes.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Seef Mall now has three destinations at Isa Town, Muharraq and Seef District and as well as a wide range of retail outlets, dining and entertainment, visitors also have the opportunity to win some great prizes with the brand’s latest ‘Shop & Win’ promotion.

Back by popular demand for the Holy month, the Ramadan ‘Shop & Win’ promotion runs until July 21, offering shoppers great choices and convenience combined with a family entertainment experiences and a chance to win in the raffle draw for every BD10 and above spent at any of the three Seef Malls.

There are brand-new SUVs as the grand prizes, sponsored by Motor City, and shoppers can also win the latest electronic items and gadgets, airline tickets, jewellery sets and mall gift cards which will be given away to lucky winners through draws held at each of the malls.

Commenting on the Ramadan ‘Shop & Win’ promotion, Robert Addison, general manager, Seef said: “We are delighted to bring back another edition of our popular shopping promotion during the most anticipated festive season, Ramadan. Our shoppers are looking for variety and great deals to buy new things and celebrate with families and friends and with this offer they can benefit

more out of their shopping and get rewarded. We wish our customers a blessed Ramadan.”

With each Seef Mall destination offering its own set of unique prizes, shoppers at Seef Mall Seef can win up to 10 prizes which include a new-to-Bahrain 2016 Volvo XC 90 SUV as the top prize; a gold jewellery set as the second prize; two Gulf Air return tickets to any online destination as third prize and a Macbook 12-inch retina Core M for fourth prize. Additionally, there will be six more prizes of Seef Mall gift cards worth BD 200 each.

For visitors of Bahrain’s newest and only waterfront shopping destination, Seef Mall Muharraq, shoppers will have an opportunity to win a Subaru Forester, in addition to the second prize of a BD500 Geant shopping voucher; a Samsung 40-inch UHD Smart LED TV and a Samsung (NX-3072) Smart camera come as third and fourth prizes respectively. Seven more prizes of Seef Mall gift cards worth BD200 will also be on offer.

Customers at Seef Mall Isa Town also have a reason to rejoice with five raffle prizes up for grabs including a new Cherry Tigo5 as first prize and a Samsung 50-inch full-smart LED TV and Sony PS4 PlayStation as second and third prizes, two additional gift cards worth BD100 each are also being awarded.

July 2015 51

ramadan & eid JUNAID PERFUMES

Scents for the Season One of the traditional perfumeries on the island has launched three new fragrances for this season to please its loyal customers.

Junaid Perfumes is a leading perfumer in the Kingdom and is renowned for its creations that combine traditional notes blended with Western twists. The perfumery has launched three new fragrances just in time for the Holy Month and Eid. The colognes are an addition to its wide variety of products which span the world of aromas.

Gharam The launch of beautiful Gharam resonates perfectly with the month of joy and blessed beginnings. Encased in a divine red and gold bottle, it embodies a fresh floral bouquet of summer flowers infused with intense and irresistible musk. Blended with expertise and creativity, the unique fruitful symphony of the perfume finishes with lingering sweet rose that defines the genuine personality of this extraordinary perfume. The beautiful and vibrant feel of Gharam is sure to take your breath away.

“At Junaid Perfumes, we create fragrances for the woman of today. With a choice of select ingredients, our products are vibrant in look and feel and reflect an ambitious personality,” says Junaid Perfumes marketing director Fahad Jaweed Junaid.

The perfect gift this season, Gharam is priced at BD23.

Badiah Badiah Gold is another new fragrance for ladies. Inspired by Arabian traditions and heritage, this authentic scent is ideally suited for the classy and chic lady. It embodies lavish and memorable qualities of elegance and sophistication. This Oriental perfume opens up with a fresh fruity note, leading to a rich rosy bouquet, finishing with a genuine oudy aroma.

The 100ml crafted golden bottle reveals the 52 July 2015

Gharam

scent’s roots and adds a final touch of class.

“The perfume is composed of traditional, pure and original notes,” says Fahad. “Its unique mix can fill your day with a luxurious and magnificent ambiance. It is a classy fragrance and a great gift for a chic lady.”

Deher Wood New for the season, discover a refreshing masculine scent for the summer with Deher Wood. The cologne follows the footsteps of Deher

Badiah

and Deher Eternal with an even stronger passion.

Fresh notes of citrus, fragrant sandalwood and earthy oud define this new fragrance that identifies with power and strength.

Junaid Perfumes was established in 1910 and is one of the oldest perfumers in the GCC. Today, the company operates over 150 exclusive retail outlets in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Lebanon, Turkey and other countries.

Call 17 737-007 for more information.

Deher Wood

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MCDONALD’S

#Happiness The popular quick service restaurant chain extends a helping hand to the community this Ramadan by launching a new campaign.

This Ramadan, McDonald’s Bahrain has launched a campaign to inspire people to spread kindness through simple but thoughtful deeds that could have a significant positive impact on other people’s lives and communities at large. Using #SpreadKindness, McDonald’s is sharing inspiring ideas of good deeds and is encouraging the public to participate in doing the same.

Under the same theme, McDonald’s has produced four children’s books that will be sold for charity across its restaurants in Bahrain. In addition, there will be 30 animated stories that will run daily on MBC1 throughout the Holy Month. All these stories aim to convey that it’s not the grandness of gesture that matters. Even making a small yet earnest effort can bring about a significant difference in the community.

“We are privileged to be in a community where giving back to the society is an integral part of people’s daily lives. This Ramadan, we are encouraging this spirit with our #SpreadKindness campaign and helping parents pass it on to their children through our books and animated TV episodes, which will also be available on our website,” said Abdulla Adel Fakhro, director of Fakhro Restaurants “The four special books will be available for purchase at all McDonald’s

restaurants in Bahrain. Each book is priced at 500fils and all proceeds will go to support children’s charities in Bahrain.”

Call 17 221-722.

Gift happiness this Ramadan A story for your child is a gift of happiness for the less fortunate.

Choose from 4 wonderful books from any McDonald’s store and all proceeds go to charities across Bahrain

mcdelivery.com.bh 17221722 www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2015 53

ramadan & eid

JOZ SALON & SPA

Glowing Skin and Hair With Ramadan falling in the hottest month of the year, it’s extremely important to look after your hair and skin as fasting and hot weather can take a toll.

Many women feel that their skin starts to look pale and feel dry during the Holy Month but this is only because your nutrition can be neglected, especially if you don’t manage a healthy lifestyle.

Joz Salon & Spa brings you beauty tips on how to take extra care of your skin and hair during Ramadan, to make sure you keep glowing.

Beauty Tips l Take advantage of the Holy Month by having a healthy routine and follow these great tips to make you feel and look your best. l Drink lots of water: This is a classic golden rule that everyone should follow.

Shower in warm water: Don’t shower in hot water because it dries your skin faster. l Drink green tea for Suhoor: Drinking green tea helps hydrate your skin and also gives you fresh breath the next day. l Don’t eat fatty food or drink sodas: Iftar is your first meal of the day, so make it a healthy one, don’t break your fast with fatty foods and soda.

54 July 2015

l Have a cup of yogurt daily: Yogurt will help you feel full longer and hydrate your skin. l Use potatoes for dark circles: We usually stay up late during Ramadan, so it is only natural for dark circles to start showing under our eyes.

Apply round slices of potatoes under your eyes for 10-15 minutes daily. l Take care of your eyes: Another solution for dark circles is to keep your under-eye area moisturised and treat it with a mask or tea bags at least twice a week. l Limit caffeine intake: Whether it’s fizzy drinks, coffee or tea, try to limit your caffeine intake as it absorbs minerals and liquids from your body. l Watch your sugar intake: During Ramadan we tend to eat lots of sweets and desserts, so make sure you don’t eat too much sugar because it may cause acne. l Indulge on nuts: Try to eat more nuts or almonds during Ramadan as they are rich in fibres and fatty acids which help take good care of your skin.

Hair Care With the change in your diet and eating habits during Ramadan, your hair is bound to suffer too.

For some women their hair feels dryer and brittle, while others experience hair loss.

The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way. Follow these tips for healthy looking hair in Ramadan. l Hair masks: Hydrate and nourish your hair with different hair masks, such as the one available from LABEL.M l Choose the right brush: For long hair, always choose a hair brush made of natural hair and for short hair, always choose one made of nylon hair. l Eat right: Eat as many vegetables and fruits as possible during Ramadan. Milk and yogurt are great for your hair as well, so make sure you drink at least one cup of milk or yogurt a day.

Call Amwaj branch on 16 031-120, Awali branch on 17 756-449 and Juffair branch on 17 369-133 for more information. www.bahrainthismonth.com

AL SAFIR HOTEL & TOWER

Fish Market Treat Al Safir Hotel & Tower has been popular in the Bahrain hospitality sector since the year 2000 and this year it introduces something special for Eid.

As a well-known four-star deluxe property located within Juffair, Al Safir Hotel & Tower hosts a wide range of food and beverage outlets as well as entertainment venues.

The hotel’s main restaurant, named Yalla Yalla, offers a unique dining experience with a classy Arabic ambience. The restaurant hosts a sumptuous buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner but what makes it unique is that the buffet spread is supplemented with live cooking stations and an à la carte menu. There’s also a wide choice of soft drinks and specialised coffee creations from the barista are a particular highlight.

Yalla Yalla will welcome you this Eid with a concept seafood theme, BAHRY, which means the fish market. Fresh catch from the local market will be on sale with guests having the opportunity to select their fish and watch it cooked in front of them.

BAHRY will run during the whole week of Eid, then every Thursday for dinner and on Fridays for lunch and dinner.

Al Safir Hotel & Tower is also a popular name in outdoor catering with numerous accolades in the Kingdom for its service to hospitals, banks, ministries, local universities and various private companies.

The hotel is an ISO-certified company credited with three quality certifications namely: ISO 9001:2008, quality management systems; ISO 22000: 2005 for its food safety management system; and ISO 18001: 2007 for occupational health and safety. The food safety system is efficient and this certification has built client confidence in the capability of Al Safir to deliver safe and high-quality food and service at the client’s premises.

Call 17 827-999.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2015 55

ramadan & eid

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

A Regal Eid Eid is the time when the entire community comes together to share each other’s joy and what better place to celebrate this day in the tranquil premises of this palace.

Just a 30-minute drive away from the chaos of the city, you can enter the flamboyant environs of the majestic Al Areen Palace & Spa. Popular among foreign nationals and locals alike, this Eid, drop in with your loved ones for a truly royal experience.

On July 17, 18 and 19, the hotel will host an Eid Al Fitr brunch from 12.30pm to 4pm at the Wadi Tent featuring a lavish buffet. “Our expert chefs will put together an eclectic array of dishes,” says Pierre Vasseur, general manager, Al Areen Palace & Spa. “There will be several live cooking stations, grilling fine cuts of meat that cater to both regional and international palates, replete with a host of entertainment for the whole family.”

Al Areen Palace & Spa is home to Saffron restaurant, a venue famous for serving authentic Khaleeji cuisine, which boasts a long list of loyal customers and Keizo Al Areen – where guests can savour the very best of Japanese, Chinese and Thai fine dining with a creative flair of rich Eastern flavours. The restaurant has become a premier dining destination in the Kingdom.

Rejuvenate your senses Al Areen features 78 luxuriously appointed pool villas that impressively showcase mesmerising Arabian charm and sophisticated elegance, each with a living room, one or more bedrooms, a dining area and a central courtyard with a large pool and whirl pool.

You can enjoy an intimate stay and spend quality time

56 July 2015

with your family as you enjoy a private in-villa barbeque, or visit the family-friendly grand outdoor pool for energetic fun and activity. The resort offers a range of recreational facilities and family activities including tennis and squash courts, an indoor lap pool, a worldclass spa and health club, exceptional fine dining venues, and a supervised Kid’s Club.

The award-winning spa is considered one of the best in the world. The treatments offered include a variety of massages, body scrubs, wraps and facials. The spa is also home to an extensive hydrothermal garden which combines hydrotherapy with the intuitive touch of the therapists, resulting in an experience that leaves you completely relaxed.

At Al Areen’s retail store you can pick up a variety of souvenirs. Now you can also find Dehn Al Oudh Seufi, a remarkable oud oil from northern Thailand, the scent of which lasts eight to ten hours long.

Earlier this year the hotel underwent a series of upgrades and has been attracting positive feedback and a larger influx of guests and visitors. The property has seen positive changes in its environment and facilities. Some of the highlights include scenic landscaping, the re-opening of the vitality pool, the newly-constructed road and beautiful night lights that decorate the main façade.

Call 17 845 000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

LANTERNS

All You Can Eat

Its Budaiya, Adliya and Riffa branches are particularly known for their nightly buffets. Indulge in a lavish ‘maharaja-style’ feast with mouthwatering tandoori treats, luxurious curries from across the sub-continent, flavoursome biriyanis, a variety of breads and some decadent desserts.

The menu consists of four types of starters including soups and grills, which are served at the table in a small barbecue set-up.

You can also look forward to a live cooking station for stir-fry dishes and a seafood corner where you can handpick your fish and have it prepared the way you like it. The large salad bar consists of up to 12 different kinds of salads.

Spoilt for choice at the main-course counter, you are offered at least ten different types of dishes. Some of the must-tries are chicken makhni and mutton rogan josh.

End your meal with a luscious rasmalai or kulfi or a warm gulab jamun. What makes this evening even more satisfying is the exceptional value you get for your money. During Ramadan the restaurants are serving an Iftar buffet. At the Budaiya branch it is priced at BD5.9 and at Adliya and Riffa branches BD6.9.

Call 17 590-591 (Budaiya), 17 250-999 (Adliya) and 77 366-333 (Riffa).

The flavours of the Indian subcontinent have travelled far and wide, and bringing you the authentic taste of its diverse cuisine is this popular restaurant.

Lanterns, one of the Kingdom’s best-loved Indian restaurants, invites you to spice up your evenings with its sumptuous selection of sub-continental fare. With an eccentric decor and informal ambience, the restaurant adds a touch of fun to fine dining.

Present in five locations – Budaiya, Adliya, Durrat Al Bahrain, Juffair and Riffa – this restaurant chain comprises some of the most creative eateries in the Kingdom.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2015 57

ramadan & eid

Delicious Deals

Where? Al Abraaj Restaurants Enjoy a wide selection of dishes and get a 50 per cent discount on your bill.

E Call 17 582-266.

Ramadan and Eid festivities dominate the culinary events of the month, so here are some promotions that’ll further enhance your celebrations.

Asian restaurant Houseboat has introduced an exclusive set menu for Suhoor. With these carefully-chosen recipes, the chefs at the Oriental venue are offering guests a traditional Arabic dining experience. Houseboat adds unique touches with regards to presentation as well by plating the Suhoor dishes in traditional Bahraini trays.

Nuasia and Al Abraaj restaurants wish you Ramadan Kareem with a 50 per cent discount on your food bill. Found at a number of locations across the Kingdom, Al Abraaj offers a multi-cuisine menu and is specially known for its grills, mezze and breads. At Nuasia, you can sample an exhaustive selection of dishes from across the Orient.

Those who don’t want to miss out on festive treats but are also keeping a close watch on their health may head to La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts as it offers a healthy Iftar menu. Priced at BD10 per person, the dinner lasts from sundown till 1am and includes a variety of detox juices.

At Papa John’s enjoy unlimited dining for just BD2.6 per person, throughout the Holy Month. The offer includes an endless supply of cheesesticks, garlic parmesan

Where? Papa John’s Take advantage of an all-youcan-eat-offer for only BD2.6.

E Call 17 506-070.

Where? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts Savour great festive fare and healthy drinks at this beautiful venue.

E Call 17 230-123.

Where? Nuasia Indulge in delicious dishes from across Asia for only half price.

E Call 17 434-344.

breadsticks, potato wedges, pizza slices and soft drinks.

Sounds too good to be true? Well, it gets even better with an additional discount for kids. This offer is valid at all Papa John’s branches, including the ones in food courts. The restaurants are open from Iftar to Suhoor during Ramadan.

Where? Houseboat Restaurant Drop in for an authentic suhoor meal before commencing the fast.

E Call 16 010-321.

bystander

Jassim, Mohammed & Das

Dilnoza & Sabrina

Delice Anniversary Delice outlet at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Residence and Spa celebrated its first anniversary.

Apple & Tina

Yamil & Ebtisam

Haseeb & Vanessa

58 July 2015

Abdulla & Hakim

Ali

Abdul Aziz & Saud

Ebtisam & Deepa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

frenchsupplement

July 2015

A Special Supplement by Bahrain This Month

60 Entente Cordial HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, takes stock of a busy first year in post.

62 Bahraini-French Business Booming Valerie Montane talks about the ever-growing commercial relationship between the two countries.

65 Parler Français Alliance Française is the place to learn French in the Kingdom.

66 Iconic French Brands From Air France to clothing brand, Celio, and homes specialist Roche Bobois and from cosmetic surgery to coffee and jewellery, Bahrain is experiencing a love affair with all things French.

74 Driving à La France We take to the roads with two French motoring giants.

78 New Chamber Launched President Jean-Christophe Durrand talks about the newly formed French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain.

Commercial Index Technal.......................................................................... 61 Paul Bakery & Restaurant......................................... 63 Novotel.......................................................................... 64 Alliance Française...................................................... 65 Roche Bobois............................................................... 70 Intercol.......................................................................... 73 Renault.......................................................................... 75 EK Kanoo (Citroen)...................................................... 77 Clero Clinic................................................................... 69 www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2015 59

french supplement

Entente Cordiale

HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, takes stock of a very busy first year in Bahrain.

S

ince his arrival on the island in September last year, Ambassador Régnauld-Fabre has been a very busy man with high level visits and much political interchange.

He says: “Political relations between France and Bahrain are very good, at has always been the case. You have a benchmark which is the level and frequency of official visits between the two countries. His Majesty King Hamad visited Paris last August and, though the trip was organised prior to my arrival in post, I did manage to meet the king when he was at the Elysee Palace.”

On the Bahrain side, the kingdom joined the coalition against Islamic State and was among 62 nations which attended the first conference in

Paris in November 2014 represented by Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa who had high level talks with his French opposite number, Laurent Fabius. This has been followed up by a series of other meetings with the most recent one taking place in Paris in early June.

His Excellency adds: “I want to highlight as well the participation of HH Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa and Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa at the Republican march in Paris, on January 11, 2015, after the terrorist attack against newspaper Charlie Hebdo.”

The Ambassador says the highlight of his tenure so far was in February when, for the first time, the French aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle visited the Kingdom, during operations in the Gulf. French Defence Minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian, flew out to visit the ship and was received

by Deputy Commander in Chief of the Bahraini Navy, Brigadier General Mohamed Al Asam.

Minister Le Drian was also on the island in December 2014 for the Manama Dialogue and he was received by His Majesty, King Hamad.

There is an ongoing high-level bilateral political dialogue headed by HE Abdulla Abdullatif, undersecretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the French Director for the Arab World at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. One session takes place each year, in 2015 it is scheduled for this autumn. Discussions range from political, economic and cultural matters to good governance.

His Excellency adds: “The Alliance Française here in Bahrain is also a very dynamic institution and particularly now that French has become a compulsory second foreign language in the Bahraini school system, after English. It offers support for both teachers and students through cooperation with the University of Bahrain.”

The Embassy is also in close co-operation with the Bahrain High Authority for Culture and Antiquities. Through its president, Shaikha Mai, the island has enjoyed lectures and workshops from members of the Paris-based Arab World Institute while in December, 2014, Opéra d’Aixen-Provence performed at Bahrain National Theatre for the “Mariage de Figaro”.

On the environmental front too there is co-operation. “In the coming months we are looking forward to host the Cop 21 United Nations Conference on Climate Change in Paris at which Bahrain will be represented at a high level,” says Ambassador Régnauld-Fabre.

“French experts are also working with the Bahraini authorities to protect the internationally important environment of the Hawar Islands.”

With such a lot going on, the Ambassador has still managed to find some time to enjoy life outside the Embassy and says: “I love it here, the work is interesting and the hospitality is genuine. Bahraini society is truly open-minded and very friendly.”

The Charles De Gaulle

HE at an onboard reception

60 July 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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and that’s only the start Present in the Gulf since 1978 and with its modern full-service regional centre in Kingdom of Bahrain since 2000, TECHNAL is more than ever committed and equipped to address the fast-growing potential of the region – over the next 30 years and beyond.

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TECHNAL MIDDLE EAST - P. O. Box: 21848, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T: +973 1722 5777 - F: +973 1721 7799 - E: technal@technal.com.bh - W: www.technal-me.com

french supplement Smart green cities

Bahraini-French Business Booming Valerie Montane, head of the economic department at the French Embassy, talks to Bahrain This Month about France’s presence in the Kingdom.

We are all used to seeing big French brands such as Louis Vuitton, L’Occitane and Geant around the island, however Valerie Montane explains that there are many other French companies here that are not so obvious.

“A lot of French companies invest in Bahrain not only because of the Bahraini domestic market but also because Bahrain is a regional economic hub,” she says. “For financial firms, expertise is a must and the high skill level of Bahraini people is certainly one of the country’s most valuable assets.”

Industrial operators too are well represented.

For example in 2012 IMERYS, the world leader in mineral-based speciality solutions for industry chose Bahrain as its latest industrial site and 80 per cent of the island’s electricity and desalinated water is produced by French giant Engie, ex GDF SUEZ. Commercial relations between the two countries have always been good and 2014 was an excellent year for French exports to Bahrain which increased by 70 per cent.

62 July 2015

“Thanks to the transportation sector, and more specifically the aircraft sector, French exports to Bahrain increased by 70 per cent,” says Valerie Montane. “Of course, the bilateral trade is very dependent on the aeronautics sector for the French exports and on refined oil and aluminium for Bahraini exports to France.”

And for the future, Bahrain’s residents will see an even greater French influence with a strategic partnership underway in the form of the French Bahraini Urban Planning Initiative.

Valerie Montane explains: “His Majesty King Hamad solicited French expertise in urban planning and a memorandum of understanding was signed in early June between HE Essam Khalaf, Minister of Works, Municipalities and Urban Planning, and Expertise France, the French international technical expertise agency, to provide assistance to implement the Bahraini-French Town Planning Initiative.

This is a strategic partnership for France and Bahrain. The Kingdom has ambitious plans for future development and the French public and private sectors will prove strong partners. The outcome of the initiative will help provide more effective urban services to Bahrain residents who want to live in smart green cities.”

Valerie Montane

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The French art de vivre in Bahrain You will never be too far away from a taste of France in the heart of Bahrain

City Centre Bahrain: Tel. 1 717 2321 Seef Mall: Tel. 1 758 0073

bystander

AFBH Gala Dinner

The Association Francophone de Bahrain held its end of season gala dinner at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in support of a Nepalese charity organisation.

Rafaela, Claudine, HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, Jean Baptiste & Eddie

JP, Linda, Soraya, Nathalie & Sadaf

Nathalie, Florence, Claudine, Linda, Soraya & Ella

Alphonso

Aline & Didier

Dominique, David, & Cyril

Valerie, Margueritte & Gerard

Christian, Vincent & Odile

Novotel Sunset Gig The first French electro event, Sunset Gigs, was organised by Alliance Francaise and the French embassy in co-operation with Novotel Al Dana Resort, featuring DJ Blaise Bandini from France.

Alexia, Siegfried & Sergey

DJ Blaise

Sara & Mohammed

64 July 2015

Kayla & Astrid

Didier

Emma, Tim & Alex

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE BAHRAIN

Learn, Discover and Enjoy French Whatever your reason for studying the language of love, Alliance Française Bahrain is the ideal place to learn.

There are many reasons to start learning French. Some people dream of the Eiffel tower, the fashionistas’ haute-couture paradise, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, street cafés and patisseries and the amazing scenery of the Alps, Bordeaux, Normandy and more…

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Others are looking for new opportunities: to develop business relations, to study abroad, planning to immigrate to French-speaking countries such as France, Quebec, Switzerland, Belgium… or Seychelles.

Whatever the reason, they all end up visiting the Alliance Française which offers group classes, private tuition, cultural activities, French exams and certifications, translation and various other services.

Alliance Française is the only place you can borrow French books, DVDs and even access an online platform with an exhaustive selection of French magazines and publications thanks to a single membership!

Alliance Française also offers a wide range of cultural activities with the support of the Co-operation and Culture Department of the French Embassy, Café des Images Cinema Club, business lectures, live concerts, storytelling and other child-oriented activities to name just a few.

The Alliance is looking forward to starting its annual cultural agenda in September with a friendly and welcoming “Apero de la rentree” (get together with French music) on Thursday, September 10, the next Café des Images screening will be on Tuesday, September 8, and there will be a sunset electronic music DJ set on the beach at Novotel on Thursday, September 24.

Upcoming French class sessions will start on September 6 and these are open to everyone from beginner to advanced levels.

Join the Alliance Française for a taste of the French and French speaking community in Bahrain.

Call 17 683-295.

July 2015 65

french supplement AIR FRANCE

Excellence Recognised Travellers can expect an even better experience as Air France puts massive investment into its fleet and services.

C

onfirming its ongoing commitment to customer satisfaction, French national carrier Air France recently received two prestigious Skytrax awards for the World’s Most Improved Airline and Best First Class Airline Lounge Dining.

They were presented at the World Airline Awards at the Paris Air Show (Paris-Le Bourget) and Alexandre de Juniac, chairman and CEO of Air France-KLM says: “These awards underline the desire that drives Air France to offer even more exceptional products and services to all our customers. Our efforts are paying off! This is a great incentive for all employees to pursue the goal that we have all set: to be among the best in the world.”

Pushing for a move upmarket across all its products and services, Air France is investing more than BD235million to offer passengers an exceptional travel experience, both at the airport and onboard.

Forty-four long-haul Boeing 777 aircraft are being gradually equipped with new cabin classes to offer optimum comfort. Furthermore, a new leather seat is being gradually installed on 24 Airbus A319s and 25 Airbus A320s on the European medium-haul network. Seamless services at the airport, new gourmet delights and a more flexible offer for business trips complement this move upmarket. Air France’s ambition is to be among the very best in terms of products and services and make a difference with a caring attitude towards customers.

With the receipt of the Best First Class Airline Lounge Dining award for the second year, the airline’s La Première lounge at Paris-Charles de Gaulle has established itself as a world reference for the quality of its service, by offering the best in terms of fine French dining.

The restaurant offers a range of dishes signed

by Alain Ducasse. A bar is also available for customers and the lounge guarantees moments of pure relaxation in a haven of peace.

inspiration, with high standards and a caring attitude, turns the flight into a moment of real pleasure on all its daily operations in France, Europe and worldwide.

Since 2004, Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines have formed a global air transport giant with a strong European base. The group also offers cargo transport and aeronautical maintenance solutions.

Air France-KLM is the leading group in terms of international traffic on departure from Europe. In 2015, it offers its customers access to a network covering 316 destinations in 115 countries thanks to its four brands Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Transavia and HOP! Air France. With a

fleet of 546 aircraft in operation and 87.4 million passengers carried in 2014, Air France-KLM operates up to 2,200 daily flights from its hubs at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol.

Its Flying Blue frequent flyer programme is one of the leaders in Europe with more than 25 million members.

Air France-KLM and its partners Delta Air Lines and Alitalia operate the biggest transAtlantic joint-venture with over 250 daily flights and Air France-KLM is also a member of the SkyTeam alliance which has 20 member airlines, offering customers access to a global network of over 16,320 daily flights to 1,052 destinations in 177 countries.

About Air France Air France, a global airline of French 66 July 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

CELIO

New in Store A leading French brand of ready-to-wear fashion for men has introduced its latest collections in Bahrain.

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specialist in casual wear and sportswear, Celio’s collections are high on trend and comfort offering an urban wardrobe for the modern man. The summer collection was unveiled at a fashion event held at the sprawling Celio stores in Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall.

This season Celio has revisited all the basics giving them a fresh new twist. The classic T-shirt is revived with a fun play on the collars. From round to V-neck to button-down or Tunisian.

For the ideal break from the heat, the evertrendy linen has been used liberally throughout the collection. Apart from being undeniably elegant, linen is also cool, comfortable and www.bahrainthismonth.com

practical and can take you from day to night wherever you go whether it’s a beach party or at work.

The Summer 2015 collection has three basic themes - Denim, Rock and Beach Boys.

Denim takes its inspiration from the casual comfortable flair of the USA. This year, indigo is the star colour of the collection. Denim – the fabric of the season – is seen as a constant through this range, from comfy T-shirts to shirts and jackets. The signature denim jacket and the suit in indigo redefine the codes for casual elegance.

Giving a creative twist to the characteristic denim, Celio has introduced the knitted jean – a hybrid item that looks like jeans but with the comfort and flexibility of jogging pants. Creating a whole new world in sportswear elegance, knitted jeans allow for comfort and movement without compromising on style.

Rock is another element that takes centre stage this season. Celebrating a carefree skater spirit, the range is distinguished by its smart blacks, light grays and cool whites. The knitted shirt, a re-invention of the classic shirt made with the piqué jersey from polo shirts, features prominently.

The look gets added oomph with cool accessories

such as a backpack or slip-ons. Printed shirts are paired with blazers for a decidedly rock look or under a jacket for a sporty look.

The last trend of the season, Beach Boys takes its inspiration from the beach with washed-out pastel colours. Fresh prints encourage a dive into summer with comfy T-shirts and cool shorts. The Beach Boys range plays with different styles fusing casual shorts with smart jackets bringing out the rich, yet understated, appeal of the entire range.

A brand that brings fun, fearless fashion for men, Celio is fast growing across the globe with more than 1,300 stores in 60 countries. Celio offers a wide range of clothing and accessories for men created by its in-house design team.

Founded in 1985 by Marc and Laurent Grosman, Celio has become a leading brand in men’s ready-to-wear fashion. The brand combines fashion and comfort and creates trends to offer men a masculine, accessible, relaxed and stylish fashion. Showcasing collections to suit the different moments of a man’s life, Celio aims to provide men with the right style for every moment of their lives.

Call 17 179-684.

July 2015 67

french supplement

Dr Pierre Clero

CLERO CLINIC

Revolutionary Treatments LIZ O’REILLY French doctor Pierre Clero is at the forefront of developing a new treatment which will make Bahrain a hub for stem cell surgery.

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ith thriving clinics in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, four years ago cosmetic surgery specialist Dr Pierre Clero decided the time was right to expand into the Middle East choosing Bahrain as the base for his new practice.

He says: “I’ve travelled widely across the Gulf and, in my opinion, the best place to live is Bahrain for quality of life and the quality of the people.”

The doctor set up the Clero Clinic which offers 68 July 2015

these are then injected back into the patient’s body. Known as systemic deployment, the stem cells go to wherever in the body there is inflammation so they are useful for treating a whole range of diseases.

“Stem cell treatment opens the door to virtually every area of medicine from cardio vascular to dermatology, it can enable us to treat conditions that were previously untreatable such as degenerative diseases like arthritis and autoimmune diseases such as lupus and Diabetes type I. In fact there is a list of 72 conditions that can be treated with stem cell therapy.”

The therapy also has a range of cosmetic uses such as non-invasive facelifts. And, since the stem cells are taken from a patient’s own fat, there is no ethical dilemma as is faced when using stem cells from unborn foetuses.

Dr Clero is currently working with Faisal the relevant Jawad authorities to licence the treatments for use in Bahrain and, in the long term, his plan is to set up La Clinique De France International bringing a range of multi-skilled doctors and medical practitioners to the island.

“Bahrain is the ideal place to do this. I already have many patients who travel here from overseas and I would like to make the Kingdom a hub which is internationally recognised for stem cell treatments.

“To me there is no better place in the Gulf to be. My wife and I love Bahrain and its people.

We have lived in many places and, as a foreigner, it is sometimes hard to connect with local people and you end up sticking to the French and expat community. But that’s not the case here, the Bahraini people are so open and welcoming. In fact the majority of our friends here are Bahraini.

“My daughter also goes to school here, at the Lycee Français, and loves it. We would not want to be anywhere else which makes Bahrain the right place for me to expand.”

Visit www.cleroclinic.com - istemcells101. com - seagulllongevitycenter.com

the full range of cosmetic treatments from Botox to tummy tucks. He says: “There are other clinics but people come to me because French medical care is known to be some of the best, if not the best, in the world.”

And now, in association with King Abdullah Medical Centre and the Arabian Gulf University, he plans to bring revolutionary stem cell treatment to the Kingdom.

Taking stem cells from the patient’s own fat, www.bahrainthismonth.com

SOON IN THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN A NEW CONCEPT

created by French Plastic Surgeon Dr. Pierre Clero M.D. a “One stop shop” for beauty, anti-aging, health and wellness. The internationally recognized French health care quality soon in Bahrain For information call Faith +973 36197919

french supplement ROCHE BOBOIS

Designer Style Investing in one outstanding designer piece can add richness and style to any decorating scheme. Check out these options from the Les Contemporains collection.

Reportage Sofa by Philippe Bouix Created especially for Roche Bobois and made in Europe, this funky sofa is upholstered in Sunset leather and Carioca, Amlapura and Bayshore fabrics. The independent backs can be placed freely on the single base and the seats are constructed from foam with cotton batting.

The super-comfortable back cushions are filled with 100 per cent feather and the base is solid beech with black stain. If you want to add to your collection Reportage also comes in an armchair and ottoman.

70 July 2015

Forest Dining Table by Cedric Ragot Add a sense of space with this futuristic dining table which, with its glass top, almost seems to float. This piece looks stunning when coupled with transparent Loop chairs and is best suited to a modern, industrial-style them. The table base features six steel tubes which come in satin or black nickel finish and the top is 12mm-thick tempered glass.

Traveler European Armchair by Stephen Burks Bring the outside indoors with this piece which resembles some of the best garden furniture but is a determinedly interior chair. Made from steel

tubes with a lacquer finish, the seat and back are upholstered in either leather or fabric with various different colours. Cushioning is in goose and duck feathers with the seat also featuring fireproof foam.

The armrests, hood and headrest are covered in 3mm-thick leather cord weaving and the chair is available either with or without the hood.

Call 17 582-901.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Hesham Kameshki

In The Shade LIZ O’REILLY Technal Middle East (TME) is seeing increasing demand for its TECHNAL® Sunéal aluminium brise-soleil sunshades which provide solar protection, particularly in glassclad high-rise buildings, while enhancing building aesthetics and optimising daylight.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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he Sunéal brise-soleil, recently launched by its French parent company Technal, combines the various solar protection applications previously available into one effective solution addressing the multiple needs of building envelopes and particularly of glazed façades.

“Whether to provide sun protection or control solar heat gain or optimise day-lighting, our Sunéal system provides an ideal solution particularly in glass-clad high-rise buildings,” says Hesham Kameshki, marketing and business development manager of Bahrain-based TME. The Sunéal brise-soleil, which combines attractive design with efficiency, can be integrated into the TECHNAL® Géode curtainwalling and roof-lights or used on an independent structure or framework.

The range is rich and varied and offers a multitude of different sized and shaped blades which can be fixed or moveable and can also be motorised. TME also offers bespoke solutions and customised sizes for special projects.

When integrated into the Géode curtain-wall, Sunéal envelopes the entire range from the simple grid façade to structural sealant glazing or beaded glazing solutions. Some blades can also be equipped with photovoltaic cells.

“The Sunéal photovoltaic blades provide privacy as well as electricity power generation with 15 per cent efficiency. Blades come in various angles depending on the orientation of the façade and the geographical zone of the building to ensure maximum efficiency,” says Kameshki.

Sunéal also offers rotating mobile blades (motorised or manual) for optimum comfort.

Here, the choice and orientation of a brise-soleil is determined by the sun’s path and position.

As with all TECHNAL® systems, only the highest quality materials and components are used and the product has been tested according to the wind-tunnel test protocol at CSTB (Construction Scientific and Technical Centre) of France.

A wide range of finishes is available including: natural anodised finishes; PVDF coatings; polyester powder coatings in an extensive range of colours and finishes; and some exclusive TECHNAL® colours for a stylish and contemporary appearance.

TME has already supplied the solution for a number of prominent projects in the region including recent landmarks Princess Nora University in Saudi Arabia, a multipurpose administration complex for Qatar Petroleum in Qatar and Al Ahli United Bank headquarters in Oman.

TME as the regional services provider for TECHNAL® has been serving the regional market for more than 35 years and offers a wide range of technically-advanced proprietary and bespoke products developed to meet specifiers’ requirements for increased thermal performance, design flexibility and visual appeal. These include innovative solutions for all types of architectural aluminium façades, skylights, sunshades, windows, doors, office partitions, balustrades and blast- and bullet-proof applications.

“TECHNAL® architectural aluminium systems are renowned for their quality, innovative French design, durability and technical performance. All over the world, TECHNAL ’s aluminium systems give architectural projects intelligence and performance, right from the design stage and are increasingly specified and utilised in landmarks across the Middle East,” concludes Kameshki.

July 2015 71

french supplement INTERCOL

Coffee: From Plant to Cup

For a tasty French brand with an ethical history, look no further than Malongo.

72 July 2015

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offee is an agricultural crop on which the fruit, before releasing its very quintessence in the cup of the person drinking it, passes through many hands blessed with an expertise perfected over 600 years.

The coffee-making machine, which completes the process, must not betray the meticulous work performed right down the line. For Malongo, one of the world’s best brands in the coffee industry, it is unthinkable to handle a product of such nobility without adopting an approach at once humble and ethical.

Back in 1934, the Malongo coffee legacy came into being in a small roasting shop in the heart of Nice, France. The daily roasting rapidly grew from 25 to 100 kilos and, to deliver the coffee, small vans replaced bicycles. In 1952, the firm became the Compagnie Méditerranéenne des Cafés Malongo and is currently known for its dynamism and innovation. Its quality policy makes it a specialist in the gourmet coffee segment. Its strategy – to offer quality products at fair prices.

Since the 1980s, Malongo has repeatedly introduced both commercial and technological, packaging and product innovations. Able to produce 7,000 tons of coffee each year, its quality ethics and the commitment of its personnel are the key to its success. Its unique quality culture is the basis for its values: preservation of the roasted coffee, respect for the men and women growing the plants, plus

customer satisfaction. In 1995, and taking the same innovative approach, Malongo designed the 1,2,3 Spresso, a unique concept in machines and pods that it patented and which is now internationally famous.

In order to be certain that its values are respected all along the chain, Malongo’s policy is to handle production itself, from start to finish. Malongo roasts all of its coffees using slow, gradual and traditional techniques including the slow “20-minute” method. Its brand offers a wide range of coffees, including both blends and single-origin types.

Malongo was recognised in this field when it was awarded two worldwide Packaging Oscars for its Pure Origin and Grande Reserve varieties.

Malongo is also known by baristas as the French specialist in luxury coffee and is the leading actor for fair trade coffees and bio-coffees. Malongo obtained this status in 1992 with its pioneering commitment. Malongo is the creator of vacuum packed metal cans, single-origin coffees, and the 123 Spresso coffee pod system. The company is present in the hotel and catering segments, in wholesale (large and medium-sized stores), and in exports via its Malongo Cafés, and finally via its on-line Malongo shop.

International Agencies Co Ltd (Intercol) is the exclusive distributor of Malongo coffee products and machines in the Kingdom.

Call 32 165-620. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Masterchef Gourmet QA417 Kitchen Machine

QUALITY CONTROL

CLEAN

COST CONTROL

SILENT

Call Zishan at (+973) 39451493.

The One and Only Professional Coffee POD System.

Coffee Solutions for Hotels, Restaurants, Coffee Shops.

Call Ajaya at (+973) 32165620.

P.O. Box 584, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 17727600, Fax: 17728274, Email: fmcg@intercol.com www.intercol.com

french supplement Y.K. ALMOAYYED & SONS

French Finesse on Wheels

CHARLIE HOLDING If you’re looking for an easy to drive car with a distinct look to get from A to B, this might be up your alley.

74 July 2015

W

hen I was 17 I got my first car. It was a beatup, rusty, old banger I affectionately nicknamed ‘drippy’ because of its propensity to leak oil everywhere.

However, despite drippy’s numerous faults, it was all mine and, to a new driver, it was more than just a car – it was independence on wheels.

Young drivers these days are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking out a ride and, with such a wide selection, it can be difficult to make a decision.

Enter the Renault Captur, an ideal ride ideal for new drivers thanks to its compact dimensions, smooth surfaces and funky two-tone paint job.

The interior is tidy and modern with a wide dash dominating the front end. In terms of onboard entertainment, there isn’t a great deal, save for the radio, CD player and USB port for your MP3 player. However, this just means there is less distracting you from enjoying the driving experience.

There are many advantages to driving a compact car, the most obvious being the ease of maneuverability and ability

to fit into tight parking spaces, ideal for those who work or live in congested areas.

The drive is no nonsense and the tiptronic gearbox is a welcome touch for those who want to switch from manual to automatic. Although automatic gearshifts are responsive enough, I believe you get a better feel for the car in manual.

The electronic speedometer is nicely designed, showing your speed right in front of you in big, easy-to-read numbers. Now, when it comes to speed, this car isn’t going to set any records at the Bahrain International Circuit, but it will get you where you want on time and in style.

For me, the most interesting thing about this car is the keycard. About the size of a credit card, it can be used to remotely lock or unlock the doors and open the boot. Once you slip inside, the key snugly fits into a slot below the centre stack, leaving you to tap the push-button ignition to start it up.

If I had this car when I was young, I would probably have been the envy of my friends rather than the laughing stock poor old drippy made me. www.bahrainthismonth.com

french supplement EK KANOO

A Nippy Little Runner

CHARLIE HOLDING Small cars are becoming big business and if you’re looking for a compact model with character, this one may be for you.

76 July 2015

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or starters, compact cars are definitely easier to park than bulking SUVs, which means this nippy little number is ideal for driving around Manama where parking is a challenge.

Also, because of its size, you’re closer to the ground, which makes you feel as though you’re travelling faster because of your low centre of gravity ... this makes it particularly fun when negotiating corners.

The DS3 has a deceptively spacious interior that has been put to good use, creating a roomier cockpit that provides front-seat passengers with ample legroom. The cockpit itself is very comfortable with attractive finishings and, as an added bonus, everything is clearly laid-out and easy to use.

The model I drove has a 1.6-litre engine and a 4-speed tiptronic gearbox that packs enough power to get you where you’re going. The gear changes while driving in automatic are fine, but switching to manual makes the driving experience much smoother and gives you a more rewarding ride.

Some of the standard features include electric windows, electronic stability control, ABS brakes, rear parking sensors, remote central locking and daytime driving lights.

There is also a CD player and USB port for your MP3 player so you can listen to your favourite music as you drive around in style.

What really makes this model stand out from other cars

in its segment is the wide range of customisation options available. From the material used for the seats, the design of the wheels, even the paint job can be customised to ensure that people pay attention when you cruise by.

With the wide range of body colour combinations along with matching alloy wheels and a plethora of roof colours and patterns it’s a car that can truly be sculpted to your tastes.

One of the unique features about the design of this car is the ‘floating roof’. Because of the two-tone colour schemes available and split B-panel behind the door, while driving at relative speed, it gives the illusion that the roof is floating above the car.

Prices start from BD7,800 during Ramadan and with every purchase of a new Citroen, customers will receive electronic giveaways in collaboration with Sharaf DG which include televisions, laptops, tablets and smart phones. They will also get a range of value-added services and extra benefits which include, free insurance and registration, a complimentary service package for three years or 60,000 kilometres, in addition to five years warranty, five years of roadside assistance plus free rust proofing and window tinting. Moreover, attractive deals are available to those who want to trade in their existing car for any of Motorcity’s brands.

Call 17 73-6222. www.bahrainthismonth.com

french supplement

After several years of planning, Bahrain’s French business community now has its own Chamber of Commerce. The newly-elected president, JeanChristophe Durrand explains the benefits.

New Chamber Launched Since 2000 the Kingdom has had the Bahraini French Business Club but this has now been superceded by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain (FCCIB).

“It has taken time since the process was launched by the former head of the economic department at the French Embassy,” says Jean-Christophe. “I think it was a great initiative to support exchanges between France and Bahrain.”

The new president adds that the number of French companies both in Bahrain and throughout the region is growing and diversifying. “The French presence is growing, it was initially very much within the financial sector but now there are power and industry companies too,” he says.

“Bahrain is also a great platform to access other countries in the region, particularly Saudi Arabia, so we want to attract companies which have ambitions in the region.”

The FCCIB has a large number of founding members, both corporate and individual, and it is planned to recruit a director as the entity needs management. The 10-member board will co-ordinate with the director to formulate a vision and mission statement for the new entity.

Trade exchange between the two countries has grown over recent years but Jean-Christophe says there is certainly room for improvement, which will be one of the chamber’s primary aims.

“We can see new French presence in the region with French companies bidding for contracts in various areas and we also have joint ventures in manufacturing. It is also seen in the hotel sector and we are in talks to develop French tourism to the island.

There are many different options to be leveraged.”

Board members get down to business

bystander

Christophe & Francois

Make Music Bahrain Local and foreign artists gathered to celebrate the “Fête de la Musique”, Make Music Bahrain, a one-day music festival oganized by the French Embassy and the Alliance Française, at the Jamsheer House, Muharraq.

Dominica & Lauren

A band performs

Vian, Radostina & Vincent

78 July 2015

Norman & Paul

Herve, Anais, Annabel & Chloe

Fatema & Mustafa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

SHARIF GROUP

Très Parisian When you think of Paris, it conjures up images of love. A French designer gives a nod to the all-important role of romance with its new Spring/Summer 2015 jewellery collection.

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ierre Cardin is a design house that embraces Parisian chic and romance and whose name is inextricably linked with the French capital with the city’s influences infused into the brand’s creations.

Over the decades, Pierre Cardin has acquired a reputation for pushing boundaries and putting a modern spin on sophisticated haute couture. This same belief, of experimenting with design rules, is evident in the Pierre Cardin Jewel Couture collections, which display a tantalising mix of Parisian chic tempered with a dash of audacity.

The brand introduces a new concept for spring/summer 2015 that offers the versatility to suit various occasions and personalities, making imaginative use of coloured elements and stones such as black onyx, white agate,

La Romaine Because love is always in vogue and no city is more romantic than Paris, it’s only natural that Pierre Cardin Jewel Couture brings typical French flair to the theme of love.

La Romaine is an emotional tour de force, with its central motif of two hearts joined together – one in tiny cubic zirconia pavé setting and the larger one in silver, 18K gold-plated or rose-gold plated silver.

This design comes in pendant necklaces and stud earrings, which can be matched with rings featuring a single heart with or without cubic zirconia pavé. These pieces make a perfect gift for a special person and the designs are discreet enough to be worn during daytime and evening.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

pink corundum or rose quartz to tie in with seasonal trends.

Pierre Cardin Jewel Couture always maintains a balance between iconic fashion items and classic daywear styles, catering to the everchanging lives of both modern women and men.

All the new lines in the Pierre Cardin jewellery collections are built on wellestablished foundations of quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The pieces are crafted from 925 sterling silver that is plated with rhodium to prevent tarnishing.

Finishes of rose- and yellow-gold plating add warmth and contrast, resulting in a range of highly original and affordable luxury jewellery items that can be co-ordinated with any mode, mood or moment.

black onyx (with silver) or the pure brilliance of white agate (with rose or yellow gold).

Encompassing pendant necklaces, Creole earrings and rings, this line is guaranteed to steal the limelight on a night out.

The collections are available at A La Mode (City Centre Bahrain and Seef Mall), a part of Sharif Group, which first established a French presence in Bahrain in the 1990s through a retail agreement with Saint Honore, Pierre Cardin and Rochas.

Call the City Centre Bahrain branch on 17 179-863 and the Seef Mall branch on 17 581-588 for more information.

Daumesnil, Lancette, Gosselin These are Pierre Cardin’s three ‘iconic’ ranges for spring/summer 2015, in which fashion and elegance merge to form stunning statement pieces. Combinations of bold designs, stones and colours are artfully orchestrated to produce jewellery that can dress up the simplest daytime outfit and turn it into an eyecatching evening number.

Daumesnil is a playful rendition of the brand’s signature ‘P’, stylised into abstract swirls of cubic zirconia for pendant necklaces and earrings.

These are the height of chic when enhanced with a Swarovski drop-shaped crystal. Complete the look with a matching Lancette bracelet.

The ‘P’ initial is again transformed in the Gosselin line, to even more dramatic effect. Here it is worked in glittering cubic zirconia, around a single gem against a contrasting background of July 2015 79

bystander

Karina & Qays

CAFB Gala Dinner

The Bahraini French Business Club held a dinner to thank its supporters, at the Diplomat Radisson Hotel.

Members of the Bahraini French Business Club Abdul Jalil & HE Sabine Taufmann

Waleed, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Abdulla, Abdul, Hussain, Khalid, George & Jurgen

Sharifa, Veronica & Mona

Jean

Basim

Philippe

Jean-Marc

80 July 2015

Janu & Vicky

Henny, Seham & Cecile

Rodolfo & HE Malika Berak

Liz, Pontius & Guillame

Abdul Nabi, Jawad & Mohammed

Khalid & Amar

Sandra & May

Fadehl, Sadiq & Edward

Jehan, Jenan & Shirley

Homa & Ahmed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOTORING

MODEL LINE-UP EXPANDS CHARLIE HOLDING Porsche Centre Bahrain welcomes an exciting arrival. Looks, performance and efficiency are just a few words that can be used to describe the new Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS.

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his seductive, head-turning, mean machine wears the GTS badge for the first time in its history, and its combination of class and capability makes it the most dynamic Targa to date, its makers say.

The concept of the Targa, which made its debut in 1965, delivers safe driving enjoyment with all-wheel drive and a wide rollover protection bar. Its retractable roof, which opens and closes in just 19 seconds, adds an element of fun.

Ironic as it may seem, Porsche’s future lies in its past by taking design cues from classic models and bringing them into the 21st century, building upon the sporty heritage.

Colin Sattar, brand manager at Porsche Centre Bahrain, says: “The 911 Targa 4 GTS personifies the brand’s heritage in creating www.bahrainthismonth.com

true sports cars for every day; delivering the latest in motor sport technology in the comfort, safety and luxury of a road car.

“Its iconic roof concept provides the ultimate in automotive enjoyment, whilst the GTS badge it wears with pride signifies unrivalled driving dynamics and performance.

This is an exquisitely styled addition to our model line-up – and the GTS family – and I look forward to seeing it welcomed to Bahrain with much excitement.”

The GTS is the most dynamic in the range with a 430bhp engine taking the car from 0 to 100kmph in 4.3 seconds thanks to the standard Sport Chrono package, chassis and PDK transmission. Despite its additional 30bhp of power, its combined fuel consumption equals that of the 911 Targa 4S. Unmistakable as a GTS, the front view is

ALSO THIS MONTH: 85 SPORTY SEDAN DEBUT 87 RAMADAN OFFERS

defined by the sport design of the front end with an opening for the auxiliary middle radiator and smoked bi-xenon headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System.

Side-on, the car’s characteristic GTS attributes are the silky gloss black 20-inch 911 Turbo S wheels with central locks, sport design door mirrors and GTS signatures on the doors.

This model combines capability with comfort, and the four-way adjustable Sport Plus front seats – with their black GTS logos on the head restraints – provide additional lateral support and long-distance cruising comfort for the driver and passenger.

The new 911 Targa 4 GTS is available at Porsche Centre Bahrain with a basic retail price of BD53,700.

Call 17 459-911.

July 2015 81

motoring ALMOAYYED MOTORS

Special Ramadan Promotion

If you’re looking for the best deals on wheels, now is the perfect time to shop around.

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lmoayyed Motors, sole dealer for Ford vehicles in Bahrain, is offering customers incredible prices on its entire range throughout the Holy Month.

Ford vehicles are renowned for their reliability and ruggedness and, at these prices, they become even more valuable, the company says. What’s more, customers are assured of discounts up to BD1,500, plus a range of other amazing benefits.

Sandeep Mathur, general manager, Almoayyed Motors, says: “This Ramadan, we want to ensure that all our customers get the best deals possible on any Ford vehicle they opt for. While these vehicles are known for their technology and innovation across safety, performance, entertainment, comfort and luxury, we would like to give customers more. This is in keeping with the spirit of the season, and we hope they take advantage of these superb prices and deals.”

Some of the price features include, the Fusion, starting from just BD8,395, the Focus from BD6,395, the Taurus from BD10,195 and the Figo from BD5,195. The marque’s line-up of 4x4s and crossovers are also available at fantastic

prices, with the F-150 starting from just BD13,995, the Edge from BD10,495, the Explorer from BD12,195, the Expedition from BD14,450, the Escape from BD8,795 and the EcoSport from BD6,395.

“Besides these fabulous prices, customers can also enjoy added value with free rustproofing, an interest rate of just 1.99 per cent, 90 days grace period, a chance to walk in and win USD500 in the weekly raffle draw and the very popular spin and win where customers receive instant prizes, like discounts, electronic gifts, window tinting and even free two-years’ service,” adds Mr Mathur.

Customers will also be able to take advantage of five years/100,000km 24-hour roadside assistance and a five year/100,000km manufacturer’s warranty on all these models.

For added convenience, the showroom in Sitra has extended work timings during Ramadan – Saturday to Thursday – 9am to 1pm and 7.30pm to 11.30pm, Friday – 7.30pm to 11.30pm. The Service Centre timings are – Saturday to Thursday – 7.30am to 5pm and 8.30pm to 10.30pm.

Call 17 737-737. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Mirna & Sarika

Rami & Redia

Anil & Hussain

Mirna & Elie

Infiniti Ramadan Launch Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons announced the launch of Infiniti’s Ramadan prices during a press conference at Café Amsterdam.

Paul, Ali & Rami

Hussain, Salman & Sarika

Tarek & Mike

Anas, Ali & Hussain

Noor & Marise

Jessa, Kafi & Justin

Pat & April

Richard, Maxi & Bahar

Nando’s Opening Nando’s PERi-PERi chicken restaurant opened an outlet at Seef Mall.

Traditional dance

Krishna, Daniel & Wasim

84 July 2015

Faizan, Mohammed, Ehsan & Tareq

Ruth & Dan

Jeff & Lyn

www.bahrainthismonth.com

YK ALMOAYYED AND SONS

Sporty Sedan Makes Debut

Featuring a new design, improved ride comfort and intelligent safety technologies, this model makes a lasting impression.

W

ith a fresh new exterior, the latest evolution of the new Q70 takes the unmistakable character of this performance sedan to new heights.

The 2016 model promises to deliver evocative design, invigorating performance, innovative technology and superior craftsmanship, its makers say.

“We pride ourselves in being able to offer our discerning customers premium vehicles that feature the best in design, performance, safety and technology. The new Infiniti Q70 is a sedan that delivers just that,” says Juergen Schmitz, managing director, Infiniti Middle East.

“The new Q70 further raises the bar in the segment with a host of new improvements that is sure to offer a drive that is both exhilarating and rewarding every time. We are confident that the Q70 will offer a powerful alternative to our customers in the region.”

This sleek new model comes with variants to please even the most discerning driver. The Excellence and Luxury grades feature the Premium body design. As an added alternative, the Sport grade is available with the Sport body design.

The exterior is fresh and modern yet instantly recognisable. Enthusiasts have been full of praise for this premium sedan and its upscale image that still manages to maintain the brand’s DNA. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The distinctive design accentuates the new double arch grille, which now takes on a more three-dimensional look due to the added detail of the waved mesh finish and chrome surround.

Its interior boasts high-quality materials – such as handcrafted wood accents and custom leather appointments – as well as meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The infotainment system is equally impressive.

Premium audio systems include the Bose studio surround sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and 16 speakers, two of which are mounted in the shoulders of each front seat.

Other additional options include Bluetooth, dualzone temperature control and available nextgeneration Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with 8-inch WVGA colour touch-screen display.

Under the bonnet of this sporty and powerful sedan is a 3.7-litre V6 engine that generates

329bhp. Also available is a 5.6-litre V8 engine that delivers 402bhp.

All the engines are matched to an advanced seven-speed automatic transmission, which allows for sportier shifts during spirited driving. Solid magnesium paddle shifters are also available.

The Infiniti Drive Mode Selector allows drivers to select different driving modes – Standard, Eco or Sport.

Make no mistake about it, this car is probably smarter than an average driver and it is available with the latest in safety advancements.

Highlights include collision warnings, aroundview monitor, Intelligent Cruise Control and Distance Control Assist.

Both the Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention systems help keep the Q70 from drifting into an adjacent lane in case the driver is distracted.

Blind Spot Warning helps alert the driver to vehicles in the blind spot area, while Blind Spot Intervention actively intervenes by selectively braking if the driver ignores both visual and audible warnings and attempts to steer into the path of the vehicle in the blind spot.

17 732-732.

July 2015 85

bystander

Ayman & Khalid

Toyota Camry Launch EK Kanoo launched the all-new 2016 Toyota Camry at its showroom in Sitra in the presence of management and Toyota officials.

Ismail, Khalid Kanoo, Waleed Kanoo, Ismail Kanoo & Yoshitsugu

Ismail Kanoo

Ashok & Imran

Sayed & Shaheen

Waleed & Khalid

Chintan, Idris & Ajith

Zayt Zaytoon Opening Suncity Ventures opened a new branch of Zayt Zaytoon at Arad with a ribbon-cutting and ceremony and traditional Lebanese dance.

Management and Staff

Adel & Dr Esam Fakhro cut the opening ribbon

86 July 2015

Mona, Mariyam & Mohammed

Lubna & Ola

Rayan & Reena

www.bahrainthismonth.com

EURO MOTORS

Exceptional Ramadan Offers Take advantage of a range of special offers on new vehicles this Ramadan

T

o celebrate the Holy Month, Euro Motors, the Kingdom’s BMW Group importer, has launched an exclusive Ramadan offer that enables customers to enjoy worry-free ownership when purchasing selected BMW and MINI vehicles.

Customers looking to purchase a BMW or MINI throughout Ramadan will be able to take advantage of a five-year free service, five-year free warranty and free insurance for a year. Those looking to purchase the eco-friendly BMW i8, as well as any of the BMW M range, will also have access to 0 per cent interest on financing.

Paul Yates, general manager of Euro Motors, says: “This Ramadan we have some very exciting offers for our customers. As always, we strive to provide extensive benefits on their car purchase and have even taken this a step further to include the M range and the BMW i8. In addition to offering our customers exceptional vehicles we have gone the extra mile with a free holiday to some great destinations as a further thank you for our customers’ loyalty.”

The importer brings extra excitement this Ramadan, with the chance to win a free holiday to a number of destinations including, Beirut, Muscat, Larnaca, Istanbul or Athens.

The offer is valid throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan at the Euro Motors showroom in Sitra.

The company’s sales team will be available during special Ramadan working hours, operating from 9am to 2pm and 8.15pm to 11.15pm from Saturday to Thursday.

17 750-750.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2015 87

motoring AL HADDAD MOTORS

Taking A Bite Out of Hollywood One of the Kingdom’s leading automotive marques has sunk its teeth into a starring movie role.

Al Haddad Motors hosted a movie premiere to highlight its participation in one of this summer’s hottest movie releases – Jurassic World, the newest instalment of the Jurassic Park series.

Bloggers, members of the press and a handful of lucky winners from Al Haddad’s social media competition attended an early showing of the film at Bahrain City Centre’s VIP II cinema. The general manager of Al Haddad Motors, Graeme Newport, gave a speech about the partnership before guests were treated to refreshments as they sat back and enjoyed the feature presentation.

“We are so thrilled about continuing this partnership that began way back in 1977,” say Mr Newport. “It is so exhilarating to witness the promotion of the vehicles in this unique way. We are proud to bring all the entertaining global marketing activities down to a local scale.”

Movie fans can discover more about the film and the featured Mercedes-Benz vehicles on a special Jurassic World microsite (www. mercedes-benz.com/jurassicworld) that shows exclusive behind-thescenes material and a selection of additional images of the set and the Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Exclusive content will be released and discussed with fans on Mercedes-Benz social media platforms (Making-Of: http://mb4.me/ Jurassic-World_MO). Jurassic World model vehicles of the G-Class and G 6x6 will be available at the Mercedes-Benz accessories online store as well as in toy retailers.

Follow www.facebook.com/alhaddadmotors.mercedesbenzbah Instagram: @alhaddadmotors and Twitter: MercedesBenzBah.

bystander

Zainab & Imran

Mercedes Movie Premiere Al Haddad Motors hosted a movie premiere of Jurassic World to raise awareness about the partnership between Mercedes Benz and Universal Pictures.

Mohammed, Joel, Hugh, Imran & Graeme

Nada & Abdulla

Huwaida & Dayal

88 July 2015

Natalie & Joe

May & Hussam

Jassim

Liju & Jinu

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

JJ’s Anniversary Celebrations JJ’s celebrated its 16th anniversary featuring legendary Irish entertainer Paddyman.

Ster & Sean

JJ’s management and staff cut cake

Aisling & Paul

Christie & Jamie

Ben & Kelly

Mikey & Azza

Mo, Rejoy, Shelley, Nitin, Madhu, Kris & Ajay

Linda & Ammar

Eleanor & Kelly

Rami, Mary, Aisling & Brenda

Dan & Fadi DJ Adam Trigger

Bella & Becky

Tara McDonald at JJ’s Queen of dance music, Tara McDonald, and DJ Adam Trigger entertained guests live for the first time at JJ’s Irish Restaurant.

Tara McDonald performs

Claude & Amin Mary, Maria, Luis, Sherry & Lily

Tara, Anne, Joyce, Elizabeth & Janet

90 July 2015

Julie & Tony

Nena & Syrus

Asif & Hamed

Mehdi & Arwa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

JLR Drive Event Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) hosted a drive event at the Bahrain International Circuit where guests were able to drive the latest range of JLR vehicles.

Vehicles ready for the track

Anthony & David

Mohammed

Kamran & Gayatri

Abdulla, Steve & Khalid

Ebrahim

Rania & Areej

InterNations

Awards Night Arabian Celts GAA held its end of season awards night 2015 at Muju Hotel Amwaj.

InterNations held a fun social evening for its members at Oliveto.

Madhavi, Theresa, Khushboo, Fatma, Sheetal & Sharmila

Naomi & Alana

Hannah & Siobhan

92 July 2015

Angela & Owen

Andrew & Caroline

Hanan, Mariam & Nina

Marco & Mike

www.bahrainthismonth.com

gadgets As the temperature climbs and we retreat to the air-conditioned comfort of our homes, these gadgets are ideal for the summer season.

SunFriend Wearable UV Tracker

Pool Basketball Slam Dunk

SunFriend is a new wearable tracker for more balanced sun exposure.

It is best used before using UVB blocking sunscreen or covering up, and lets you see how much sun you are getting each day. It also shows you how intense the sun is by taking a real time UV Index reading. Use it daily to get a healthy amount of sun – enough to get optimal vitamin D, but not so much that you burn or damage your skin.

If you’re heading for the pool this summer, make the time more interesting and fun with your kids by getting the Pool Basketball Slam Dunk. The setup will stay afloat on water and give you that ultimate basketball experience even in the pool. Fun for adults and kids alike!

Wear-N-Write TravelCard Charger The TravelCard is a portable Smartphone charger that fits in your wallet. Now, there’s no need to get that sinking feeling when you’re waiting on an important call and your battery power is in the red.

Compatible with all Android models and iPhone 5 onwards.

94 July 2015

Perfect for those who always find it difficult to take notes on the go, the Wear-N-Write has been specifically designed for busy people who often need to record information quickly. This quick and easyto-use notepad has a flexible writing surface and can be contoured around the arm. Also includes a dry erase pen to scribble your notes with.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bluetooth Mini Lightweight Wireless Earbuds The Bluetooth Mini Lightweight Wireless Earbuds by Soundpeats can deliver up to five hours of playtime and provide amazing music quality outdoors. PureSound will give you in-ear white noise and listener fatigue reduction. The sweat-proof and durable design provides high fidelity stereo music and clear speech.

Smart Planter Grow your kitchen herbs indoors and with style by using the Smart Planter. It will let you know when your plant needs water with the help of the ‘flower’ indicator. You’ll always know when to water them and won’t be perplexed as to whether they are growing in a healthy way or not. The planter also uses an innovative cotton wick irrigation system which allows you to maintain proper moisture for your plant.

Automatic Hose Reel Retract a hose at the touch of a button with the Automatic Hose Reel. The built-in motor will rotate the reel and retract the 115’ hose without tangles in a matter of 30 seconds. The reel is powered by a rechargeable battery with the rotor being able to retract the hose 50 times on a full charge. The reel will swivel 180 degrees when mounted on a wall and 360 degrees when mounted on a deck surface.

Wood Mouse Cover The Wood Mouse Cover has been laser-cut from rosewood and bamboo by using a parametric kerb. This creates a flexible wooden touch which will allow you to perfectly wrap the edges and curves of the mouse. Most importantly, it gives your mouse a fantastic makeover and makes it look way cooler than you can think of. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Magnetic Madness Coasters Super strong neodymium magnets inside uniquely designed wood. These coasters, a mixture of everyday essentials and artistic furniture, are designed for all kinds of taste and various situations in daily life. Strong magnets are integrated in each coaster to ensure that they will always stay together and leave no mess.

95 July 2015

music

Florence + The Machine

- How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful

What’s the story?

After debut album Lungs and then its follow-up Ceremonials whisked lead singer Florence Welch into the stratosphere, the only way was down. And so it proved, with the star describing the last year as “an extended nervous breakdown”. After taking a year off from touring to recharge the batteries, she’s brought her friends together again for effort number three. How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful represents a shift in focus towards reality, as opposed to the previous albums which were grounded in fantasy and metaphor.

Worth a listen?

The album features a more extensive musical spectrum than previous efforts, with full brass arrangements evident on a number of tracks. Lyrics follow traditional themes: a woman fighting with love and emotion, with sprinklings of biblical allusions. Opening track, the standout Ship To Wreck, features a cacophony of 80s’ guitar pop and rattling percussion leading into a tempestuous chorus, which sets the bar impossibly high for the rest of the album. What follows is British brooding at its best, backed by Florence’s ghostly choral vocals.

Verdict: Florence is back with a bang.

Shorts

Everything Is 4 - Jason Derulo

Wilder Minds - Mumford & Sons

Bush - Snoop Dogg

Everything Is 4 recalibrates Derulo’s sound, syncing it to current trends with 11 precisiontooled three-minute quickfire pop songs. But it also shuffles in nuggets of pop’s past, revealing an artist with both a finger on the current trends and an appreciation of his predecessors. This eclectic mix never quite knows what genre it wants to be, touching base on moody synth pop, candy-sweet guitars and grimy R&B.

After taking the world by storm, the folk rockers have finally ditched the banjos for something heavier. While the gritty ambience of electric instrumentation and heavier distortion suits Mumford & Sons’ way with melody, emotion and dynamics, they’ve lost what makes them unique.

Without the throwbacks to an older and more peaceful time, the band seems interchangeable with any number of bland mainstream rockers that favour sound over song.

Snoop sounds rejuvenated and truly invested in these tracks after a couple of lacklustre efforts. This album is the definition of cohesion, with each track effortlessly flowing into the next and its rhythms and melodies grab listeners’ attention with ease.

The lyrical content may be repetitive and it’s nothing you haven’t heard before, but the writing is by no means bad and there’s some big choruses to get you in the groove.

96 July 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games review Brutal combat and eye-popping graphics set a new landmark for gaming.

Game: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Rating:**** What is it?

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an action role-playing video game set in an open world environment, and based on the series of fantasy novels of the same title by the Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski. Played in a third-person perspective, players control protagonist Geralt of Rivia, a Witcher who sets out on a long journey through the large land of Northern Kingdoms. Players do battle against the world’s many dangers using swords and magic, while interacting with nonplayer characters and completing side quests and main missions all to progress through the story. Players mostly travel by foot and horseback.

Graphics:

Gameplay:

In a word, stunning. The massive open-world environment has incredible depth and each frame pops with vivid colour and fidelity.

Lush, rolling fields are liberally dotted with swaying foliage of every shape and size while loosely-connected, yet incredibly detailed and unique ramshackle townships provide solace from the roaming beasts. A full day/night cycle and dynamic weather pull it all together,

Project CARS

The ultimate driver journey begins here! Project CARS represents the definitive racing simulation, with a Franchise Mode that allows you to carve out a personalised career starting in the karting world and then progressing on to whichever motorsport specialisation you prefer including Rally, Touring Cars, Open-Wheel, GT, Le Mans, and many more. You can play co-op with a friend as either the driver or co-driver, and create and manage a full team to compete against friends and challengers. User-generated content lets you take advantage of the advanced graphics and physics model to design your car exactly as you want. www.bahrainthismonth.com

cementing The Witcher 3’s landscape as one of the most authenticfeeling open worlds ever created.

The majority of your time in the Northern Kingdoms will be spent in combat, which is a mix of good old sword ‘n’ shield fare and the more diverse magic abilities. Combat is in real time, and it feels brutal. It’s satisfyingly fluid, so much so that you often find yourself looking for a fight just to enjoy its intuitiveness. There are also dialogue choices where you have the option to be a moral paragon or a tyrannical renegade, which shapes the world around you.

Final Fantasy X/X-2 Remaster

Two of the most popular RPGs of all time return, remastered in glorious HD for the PlayStation 4.Final Fantasy X follows the exploits of the SummonerYuna and her guardians as they battle an evil immortal enemy known as Sin. This version features a redesigned fighting system that mixes classic Final Fantasy elements with a ‘Sphere Grid’levelling platform. Final Fantasy X-2 is the first true sequel in the series, and picks the story up two years later and gives the player a trio of three tough female leads who swap between various ability classes to defeat their enemies in battle.

Axiom Verge

Axiom Verge is a retro-styled 2D action game, with heavy influence from the Metroidvania style of yore, focused on unusual weaponry and exploration of a maze-like, infested world.

You play as Trace, a relatively normal yet quirky guy who suffers a near-fatal injury, after which he wakes up in a strange, unsettling new world that is both high-tech and incredibly ancient. Why is he here?

Where are the world’s inhabitants? And what is the mysterious force that seems intent on ending his life? This adventure answers these questions through a delightful journey that acts as a throwback to a simpler time.

97 July 2015

website

bystander

Verdict:

Site: https://soundcloud.com/ Rating: *****

Easy-to-use service which might reveal the next big thing.

Tea Party Cake Boutique hosted an afternoon tea party for invited guests, family and friends at its premises in Seef Corner mall.

Ken, Juliet, Nadia, Malou, Marijo & Joel

What is it?

It’s a simple, bare-bones site that allows anyone to upload and download music under a variety of licences, and embed uploaded tracks across the web. It’s a lot like YouTube, but with audio instead of videos.

The overall tone of the site is positive and generally more serious than YouTube and it is well-respected within the music community.

The Good

Without a doubt, SoundCloud is an amazing gift to indie music. It’s effortless and has a novel timed annotation feature, allowing people to discuss music in an entirely new way. SoundCloud is great, and if you want to hear the next major act before the labels do, SoundCloud is where to look. The search feature is intuitive and you can narrow down your preferences to find that sound you really like.

Ingrid & Urvashi

Lamia, Arif & Shabana

The Bad

Although the website has strong community guidelines, occasionally objectionable material will sneak online for a brief time before it is reported and deleted.

http://www.livestation.com/ If you want to keep up with traditional TV news, but don’t want to pay for basic cable, Livestation is a great solution. It allows you to stream more than thirty international news channels from your browser.

Buccellati Launch Asia Jewellers and Luca Buccellati held a unique jewellery show at Moda Mall to announce the launch of Buccellati jewellery.

http://www.wolframalpha.com/

Luca, Mayan & Helen

Wolfram Alpha is the awesome artificially intelligent graphing calculator that you wish you had in high school. Want to know what a function looks like? Done. Want to see how to solve an equation, step by step? It’s easy.

Want to know the nutrition facts of a 100g of fried chicken? Not a problem. Wolfram Alpha has a bizarrely broad and sophisticated suite of features, and is the student’s best friend.

Luca & Patrick

98 July 2015

Marise & Khalid

Saha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

The latest and greatest What is it?

Iftt stands for ‘if this, then that’, which allows you to make thousands of commands, also known as ‘recipes’, such as sending you an SMS if it’s about to rain or to automatically post a link to your blog on your Facebook page at any given time. No programming skills are required.

While you can create your own commands from scratch using what boils down to a ‘choose from the listed options’ interface, ifttt also lets you browse recipes that other users have created and made public.

The Good:

The app is extremely simple to use. You might assume that the recipes would require some technical wizardry, but they don’t. It uses icons and large text to make the recipes completely easy to create, and supports integrations with dozens of other apps and services.

App: ifttt Rating:****

The Bad:

Verdict: Convenience and efficiency in one helpful bundle App: RockMyRun

If you enjoy running with music, especially new music picked to match your activity, RockMyRun is the app for you. This fitness app plays music and changes the tempo based on your footfalls or heart rate, while also keeping track of your runs. It also lets you set the tempo of a playlist, if you’d rather try to make your feet keep up with www.bahrainthismonth.com

The app doesn’t have a very good way of notifying you if there’s a problem with one of your recipes, and occasionally you have to be extremely exact with what you’re asking, which can be frustrating.

App: Rewind - Automatic Time Tracking

Perfect for data junkies, this app keeps track of where you’ve been and for how long.

Have you ever wondered how much time you spend at work or at home? How about at your favorite coffee shop or restaurant or the gym? With Rewind, you can easily know this information without even thinking about it as it tracks everything in neatlypresented graphs and charts.

99 July 2015

movies

bystander

Film: Mad Max: Fury Road Rating:*****

Verdict: Barmy, bonkers and bananas, but brilliant!

Directed by: George Miller Starring: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult

Perfumes Launch Nicolai Perfumes launched at The Perfume Lounge in Seef Mall.

Badriya & Nawal

The Plot:

Years after the collapse of civilisation, the tyrannical Immortan Joe enslaves apocalypse survivors inside a desert fortress named the Citadel. When fierce warrior Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) kidnaps the despot’s five wives and attempts to lead them to safety, she forges an alliance with loner Max Rockatansky (Tom Hardy). Together and piloting a massive, armoured truck dubbed the ‘War Rig’, they try to outrun the ruthless warlord and his henchmen in a high-speed, deadly chase through the Wasteland.

Worth Watching?

If you’re a fan of action movies, you will love this. The stunts performed on screen are some of the best ever imprinted on celluloid, and were made almost entirely from practical effects, real working cars and Cirque de Soleil gymnasts. Characters are given a surprising amount of depth and leave a powerful impression despite a two hour run-time almost entirely devoted to one giant car chase, while each frame pops with vibrant colours. It has to be seen to be believed.

Jurassic World

Twenty-two years after the events of Jurassic Park, Isla Nublar now features a fully-functioning dinosaur theme park named Jurassic World. With visitor attendances on the decline, the park’s geneticists create a hybrid dinosaur known as Indominus rex. When the creature inevitably escapes, it’s up to Owen Grady (Chris Pratt), a member of the park’s Velociraptor training team, and Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard), the park’s operations manager, to contain the hybrid and stop her deadly rampage before she can cause more damage.

Inside Out

Riley (Kaitlyn Dias) is a happy, hockey-loving 11-year-old Midwestern girl, but her world turns upside-down when she and her parents move to San Francisco.

Riley’s emotions, led by Joy (Amy Poehler), try to guide her through this difficult, life-changing event.

However, the stress of the move brings Sadness (Phyllis Smith) to the forefront. When Joy and Sadness are inadvertently swept into the far reaches of Riley’s mind, the only emotions left in Headquarters are Anger, Fear and Disgust.

Lowela & Lina

New Store Opening Bahrain Apparel Trading opened a new concept store of its fashion shoe brand, Call It Spring at City Centre Bahrain.

Dinesh, Manzoor, Subir & Matthew

Randa, Edralyn & Bharthi

100 July 2015

Yasmin & Ali

Abdul & Yousif

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING ALSO THIS MONTH:

TASTE OF HOME ANKITA MAMGAIN This Middle Eastern restaurant offers a fun and casual dining experience while getting really creative in the kitchen.

T

he dining-out scene in Bahrain is no less than a foodie’s dream with a long list of restaurants catering to the island’s insatiable appetite. We’ll endure the longest traffic jams if we get the slightest whiff of something awesome being served.

Bayti, which means ‘my home’ in Arabic, located next to Bahrain Financial Harbour, is one such venue where gourmands converge. A Middle Eastern restaurant, it has broken many stereotypes associated with traditional Arabic eateries. A far cry from dark interiors, heavy upholstery and gilded artefacts, this is a warm, casual space with a touch of whimsy – adding just enough exuberance to appeal to a wide range of diners.

The decor combines modern and traditional elements to create a perfect harmony, establishing a regional theme and at the same time displaying novelty. The walls are covered with retro, pop-art posters of Arabic sirens of yesteryear; chequered tabletops and soft light finish the look. And this is only the beginning of www.bahrainthismonth.com

the new trend of Arabic dining that Bayti has introduced to the Kingdom.

Another thing you instantly notice is the service style. Nelson, who greeted me at the door, addressed me by my first name, a welcome change from the age old industry clichés of ‘sir and ma’am’. As I settle down, he brought the menu. The highlighted box, right in the centre read ‘Gourmet Shawarma’; a house specialty Nelson told me. So I ordered it with some sheesh tawook.

This is a bespoke dish that lets you choose exactly what you want to eat, from the different kinds of breads – regular, tomato and spinach – to the filling, which can be beef, chicken, lamb, fish and even vegetables. You also get to choose from five different kinds of relishes, namely Bayti’s signature, grand, Oriental, pan-Arabian and the herby, hot chimichurri. I chose the regular and tomato breads with chicken and signature sauce.

The grills and shawarma arrived on wooden boards with some salad and fries and, may I add, the dishes totally lived up to expectation.

105 A HEALTHY OPTION 106 FLAVOURS OF AMERICA

Especially the shawarma with tomato bread!

The sheesh tawook was beautifully tender and flavoursome. It didn’t take me long to polish this off, maybe because I could barely contain my excitement for dessert. Bayti’s chocolate shawarma is almost a culinary legend in Bahrain, and I just had to try it!

If you really can only have one thing at Bayti, make it this!

The dish consists of two soft, deliciously warm crêpes that envelope shavings of decadent milk, dark and white chocolate. This chocolatey lusciousness is served with vanilla crème on the side (like you’d get tahini) and a portion of ‘fries’ – caramelised pineapple sticks coated in cinnamon sugar. One bite of this and all problems disappear and the world instantly becomes a better place!

Bayti is also offering an Iftar buffet till the end of Ramadan, which is priced at BD7+. The restaurant’s innovative menu offers a host of choices, which are packed with flavour and creativity. A definite must-try!

July 2015 103

bystander

Indian Festival The K Hotel hosted a three-day Indian food festival with traditional entertainment at the opening ceremony.

Management and staff at the traditional lighting of the lamp

Mr & Mrs Mandlowsky

Chinnappa & Anil

Dancers perform bhangra

Aishwarya & Mariam

Sarah & Rasha

Piano Recital Ballare School of Performing Arts held its annual piano recital.

A student performs

Victoria & Elena

104 July 2015

Safoora & Harris

Leonor, Sofiya & Nayla

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining

MAKI

Healthy Bites

Maki’s culinary team is always on the lookout for healthy and exciting vegetables, herbs, grains and other food items to include in the menu.

Using ingredients such as kale, quinoa and shiso leaves, the group’s founders went further by introducing their house-made extra virgin olive oil, which is used in many of their signature dishes including healthful guest favourites such as Amer Maki, Tara Maki, and Oliver Maki.

“Since we seek to meet the needs of health-conscious guests, we could not ignore the opportunity to be one of the first restaurants to introduce this ‘super grain’ to our offering,” says agricultural expert and Maki’s co-founder, Amer Zeitoun.

The selection includes dishes such as Akagome Oliver Sushi, Akagome Muwaffaq Maki, Akagome Hotate (scallop) Teppanyaki and Akagome Nasu Teppanyaki.

The restaurant’s pursuit of healthy alternatives goes beyond the new menu. It has previously introduced brown rice as an available option for all rice dishes and a gluten-free menu, for those who suffer intolerance.

Call 17 522-733, 36 999-102 or email on maki.bahrain@olivermaki.com

The latest gastronomic indulgence at this chic eatery promises both great taste and health benefits Known for its special brand of creative Japanese cuisine, Maki has introduced an array of platters that feature Akagome or red rice. The restaurant continues to be a pioneer in creating innovative dishes that tick all the boxes – taste, presentation and nutrition.

Red rice, in addition to being rich in fiber, Vitamin B1 and B2, iron and calcium, has a delicious nutty and slightly sweet flavour. It is also loaded with 10 times more antioxidants than brown rice.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2015 105

RIC’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN

A Taste of Americana Known for its home-style cooking, this restaurant in the heart of Juffair now includes El Rancho Steakhouse & Cantina that serves up delicious Tex-Mex.

BREAKFAST ALL DAY!

A home away from home for American expats on the island, Ric’s Kountry Kitchen has gained a reputation for serving unpretentious and authentic food.

In addition to a packed house in Ric’s, you can now find many patrons heading to El Rancho Steakhouse & Cantina, located on the second floor.

Featuring an authentic Mexican menu, El Rancho offers a wide range of fajitas, taquitos and quesadillas along with quality cuts of meat.

The restaurant only serves USDA-certified Black Angus steaks and prime ribs, imported from the USA. The restaurant has undergone extensive renovations that have created a seamless transition from the downstairs area to the upstairs venue. El Rancho also has its own entrance through a courtyard corridor of vibrant colours that reflects the Mexican spirit, the company says.

“Our Tex-Mex menu includes the favourites you would expect from the South-western style of American cuisine,” notes Rick Abernathy, the managing director. “While Tex-Mex tones down the more spicy aspects of Mexican cuisine, customers can still order food as hot as they like it.”

Ric’s prides itself on feeling like ‘home’ and treating customers like one of the family. So, sit back and indulge in hearty portions of food brought straight to your table by the friendly and courteous staff.

From mouth-watering breakfasts to burgers, steaks, sandwiches and buffets, Ric’s offers the entire American package.

Call 17 725-550.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE K HOTEL

Oriental Treat Take a culinary journey across Asia and sample its eclectic flavours at this popular restaurant.

The K Hotel’s all-day-dining restaurant Klouds is known for constantly providing great cuisine. Located on the ground floor, it enjoys a loyal customer following and never ceases to surprise when it comes to good food; be it at the annual Iftars, weekly theme nights or the everyday offerings that diners choose to have à la carte.

The theme nights are especially popular with islanders, offering a wide selection of dishes at competitive prices. Every Wednesday, the restaurant hosts an Asian night bringing you a variety of flavours from the Orient and its rich culinary traditions. The K Hotel’s executive chef Sylvester Rozario has put together a stellar menu that delivers a truly unmatched experience.

This seemingly unending spread starts with a hearty selection of canapés such as sesame prawn toast, mango lobster spring rolls, fried wanton, crispy threaded prawn balls and Thai fish cakes. Expect rich broths such as the classic tom yam goong and sweetcorn chicken soup.

The main course is a medley of tantalising preparations such as prawn in hot garlic sauce, chicken with cashew nut, nasi goring with beef and chicken sate, Malaysian spicy crab claw and grilled coconut chicken with lemon and basil. The cold counter features sushi, Thai beef salad, Kilawin, papaya and raw mango salad, prawn and lychee in cajun spice, Indonesian gado gado, glass noodles with seafood salad and much more.

Proving a delicious end to your meal are desserts such as banana crème brûlée, sticky rice pudding and green tea tiramisu. The buffet is priced at BD12++ and BD17++ Call 17 827-999.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2015 107

Business or Leisure.

We love to say yes!

Let us make your summer special Book your room starting from BD49++ only at The Best Business & Family Hotel in Bahrain Rate Includes: Super Breakfast Buffet Free Internet 20% discount on Spa treatment Terms & Conditions apply

*Valid from 18th June - 18th September 2015 *Subject to availability *Rates don’t apply during EID period

For reservations please call +973 17 525 251 reservations.bahrain@radissonblu.com

Elegance Meets Exclusivity

What’s New

The prestigious Italian fashion house FERRÉ Milano launches its first sophisticated Swiss-made watch line designed for fashion loving women and style-conscious men. The launch collection features a range of 88 styles and comes in stainless steel, pink-gold and yellow-gold coloured casing, combined with genuine Italian leather straps or steel and gold-plated bracelets.

Available at A La Mode, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

Edited by Apple Sharma

Opposites Attract This year‘s Esprit Spring/Summer Jewel Collection has two key themes that perfectly complement each other: City Jungle and Rosé Parfait. Feminine rings, necklaces and earrings shine mostly in rosegold-plated silver, studded with rose-coloured and white stones.

Available at A La Mode, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

Luxurious Skin Amouage introduces Fate Bath & Body Collection with signature properties to invigorate the natural vitality and radiance of the skin. The collection includes bath and shower gel, soaps, body lotion, hand cream and the ultra-rich body cream.

Available at Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

Niche Fragrances

Patricia de Nicolaï is the woman behind Parfums de Nicolaï, the highly acclaimed niche fragrance brand. Designer Nicolai Parfumeur Createur has 53 perfumes in its fragrance base. The earliest edition was created in 1989 and the newest is from 2015.

Available at The Perfume Lounge, Seef Mall.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Life Is… The Body Shop has launched a special edition Life Is…Gold fragrance, just in time for Ramadan.

Available as a perfume oil and eau de parfum, it’s an intense, long-lasting fragrance with notes of mandarin, freesia, jasmine and tonka bean.

Available at Body Shop, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

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marketplace APTECH

Career Programme Launched

This education provider aims to equip students with the skills to succeed in the workplace.

In this age of technology and innovation, quality education has never been more important. With everyone going digital, there is an immense scope for students opting for a career in information technology (IT) and, recognising this need, APTECH has launched the ‘Aptech Certified Computer Professional Course’ in Bahrain.

Students get the benefit of a special launch-price discount to ensure an affordable learning experience aimed at encouraging them to sign-up for a career in

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the booming IT industry with qualifications and skills that will enhance their future job prospects.

Aptech offers its students fully-equipped centres and certified faculty who provide a world-class education.

The well-researched curriculum is mapped to the mostused technologies ensuring students are ‘job ready’ and on a par with industry standards.

Head of Aptech Bahrain, Vishal Kapoor, says: “Aptech has been making revolutionary changes in the careers and lives of thousands of students globally since 1993.

Our high-quality education ensures that Aptech students are selected by the best companies. We offer the Aptech Certified Computer Professional Courses on a part-time basis as well, so that working professionals can also enrol in the programme.”

Aptech Bahrain has been a leading training institute since 1993 on the principle of enhancing education and unleashing the potential of each student. Today, Aptech has a presence in 40 countries and operates from over 1,300 centres worldwide to train students and produce several million job-ready professionals who get absorbed by the best companies.

Call 17 258-088.

OTHER EVENTS

Trader Vic’s hosted an LED Tron dance act at Mai Tai lounge.

Romina Vecchi, wife of the Italian Ambassador, presented three charity associations – Al Kawthar Orphanage, Tree of Life Charity Association and Alia for Early Intervention - with a cheque each, donated from the funds raised at the Grand Italian Ball.

The Rotary Club of Manama launched its Ramadan box initiative that donates to needy families across Bahrain.

Chef Alexandra held an Italian cooking class at Jawad Supermarket, The Jawad Dome in the presence of Romina Vecchi, wife of the Italian Ambassador.

A fitness workshop was held by Ramee Group to mark International Yoga day.

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland - Bahrain held a graduation ceremony under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

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other events

The new Ashrafs tower was inaugurated in Hoora.

University College of Bahrain (UCB) presented the skills of its students who participated in a two-week programme in collaboration with Fullbridge.

Eleven-year-old Caline Hajjar signed her first book, The Money Mystery, in support of a charitable cause.

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AJM Kooheji Group was awarded ‘Customer Promotion of the Year’ at the Middle East Retail Awards 2015.

The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, VIVA Bahrain and BT launched the region’s first Global Internet Protocol Exchange (GIPX) hub in Bahrain.

Yateem Centre launched a ‘fish for fun’ promotion for cash prizes during Ramadan.

Stepping Stone held a seminar on Alignment and Synergy at Capital Club Bahrain.

Bin Hindi Informatics & Samsung Gulf Electronics inaugurated the new Samsung brand showroom at Seef mall Muharraq, under the patronage of HE Kamal Bin Ahmed Mohammed, Telecommunications & Transportation Minister, and in the presence of Ismail Yoon, president, Samsung Gulf Electronics.

The Gulf Hotels Group and Lona Real Estate launched the Gulf Residence Amwaj.

South African singer, Paul Adams, performed live at the Bahrain Rugby Club.

Albilad Real Estate Investment Company signed a contract for the construction of a serviced apartment tower in the Water Garden City project.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Al Safir Hotel & Tower held an ISO recertification ceremony at its premises.

City Centre Bahrain demonstrated its new parking guidance system technology.

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marketplace

PATEK PHILIPPE

A New Face for a Grand Tradition

One of the most prestigious watchmakers in the world presents a new version of its most popular model that will delight aficionados of complicated timepieces.

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Patek Philippe’s best-selling complicated watches have two functions that are always in focus. The Annual Calendar, which needs to be corrected only once a year, and the chronograph that emphasises the role of the timepiece as a precision measuring instrument. For this reason, the Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronographs, which unite both functions, are among the models most popular with many watch enthusiasts.

With the new version of the Annual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 5905P in platinum, Patek Philippe proves yet again that refined combinations of innovative design and successful horological complications can result in totally new and distinctive timepieces.

The metamorphosis begins with the dial that reflects the design of the Ref. 5205 Annual Calendar launched in 2010 but with new colours and further details, this new version is nonetheless original and unmistakable.

The outermost scale for the chronograph hand is adjoined by a crisply graduated minute scale. It is followed by a broad ring that accommodates the applied white-gold hour markers and, between 10 and 2 o’clock, the three aperture displays of the Annual Calendar.

The date aperture at 12 o’clock is somewhat larger and embedded in a polished white-gold frame. At 6 o’clock, it is complemented by a large 60-minute chronograph counter and a small window for the day/ night indicator just below the arbour of the hand.

The hour and minutes hands that hover above the dial are fashioned in a novel Dauphine silhouette with three facets and a Superluminova coating on the centre ridge. Together with the luminous 5-minute markers, they assure excellent legibility in the dark.

The dial is available in navy blue and black versions – blue highlights the elegance of the watch while black emphasises its function as a technical time measurement instrument.

Both dials harmonise with the cool gloss of the prominent 42mm platinum case. The case is crafted from solid platinum 950 in the manufacture’s own ateliers and leaves nothing to be desired in terms of form and finish.

Including time-consuming manual processes such as deburring, grinding, mirror-polishing with progressively

finer grit and repeated rigorous inspections, it takes nearly two weeks to produce a case.

And it is a lavishly finished case of flawless beauty; its sapphire-crystal back reveals a mechanical movement crafted with equally uncompromising attention to detail.

Like all the manufacture’s platinum cases, it features a flawless Top Wesselton diamond between the lugs (prongs that hold the straps) at 6 o’clock.

The round display back exposes the large and heavy 21K gold winding rotor which keeps the Annual Calendar Chronograph running continuously if it is regularly worn.

The noble contrast of gold against the silvery rhodiumed surfaces, the shiny chamfers and the red bearing jewels provide the caliber CH 28-520 QA 24H movement with a radiance that will seduce every watch connoisseur.

The piece combines the function of a flyback chronograph with that of the Annual Calendar, two highly popular complications. Patek Philippe’s Annual Calendars have been paragons of functionality and dependability for almost 20 years. The patented Patek Philippe Annual Calendar is a full calendar that automatically recognises 30- and 31-day months. If the watch runs without interruption, only one manual correction is required each year at the transition from February to March.

Thanks to creative fine-tuning, the new Ref. 5905 has a clearly distinctive new look which marks a further step forward in the evolution of Patek Philippe’s Annual Calendar Chronographs.

The watch is available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

Call 17 520-055 for more information. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace FRASER SUITES DIPLOMATIC AREA BAHRAIN

Feel at Home As more time passes, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area Bahrain has been working on redefining its definition of what it means to be at home.

Time has redefined our understanding of what home is, and with this ever-changing philosophy in mind, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area has rebranded the work ethic it believes necessary to treat its guests.

Always welcomed with a smile, Frasers Suites Diplomatic Area staff no longer consider its guests to be customers, but extended family members it has not seen, cousins it forgot and relatives it welcomes with open arms. There is a sense that the privileges and joy you receive as a loved one are far superior to that of a stranger, and Fraser Suites ensures that you feel right at home.

Guests can enjoy the spa, gym, pool, restaurant, meeting room, and other facilities that give you the comfort of home and familiarity all in one place. The knowledge that you are taken care of by staff that genuinely

114 July 2015

wish you happiness is reaffirming and comforting. This sense of belonging and unwinding in the familiar is the experience that Fraser Suites aims to recreate.

Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area is proud of its staff. The aim to please supersedes good housekeeping habits, and is ingrained in the quality of service and experience. Intuitive service is not a foreign concept to this hotel, but with its opening phase far away, one can see just how much words have been put into action and how home can be anywhere in the world.

Call 16 161-888 or email reservations. bahrain@frasershospitality.com.

For up to-date-news and events follow its Facebook page Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area and Instagram at FraserDiplomaticwith #FSDABHOME

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

Business and Pleasure Juffair’s skyline receives reinforcement with this property that promises to be the new centre of hospitality in the area.

Atiram is an international hotel chain from Spain which has entered the Middle East market with its first franchise, Atiram Premier Hotel in Juffair. A four-star deluxe property, it consists of 105 rooms with a choice of singles, doubles and suites.

“Atiram Premier is another landmark property in Juffair and we are looking forward to a great response in this market,” says general manager Ved Prakash.

All rooms feature luxurious interiors; expect Italian-style décor and furnishing with all five-star amenities. There is top-quality linen and bedding, a mini-bar, tea and coffee maker, a safe deposit locker, 42-inch LED television with all international channels and free Wi-Fi in all rooms.

The hotel boasts a wide variety of food and beverage outlets. Its allday-dining restaurant serves multicuisine delicacies in the daily breakfast and lunch buffets and à la cart at dinner. In addition, there is a

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Russian restaurant, Matroushka, which serves traditional East European dishes, the first of its kind in Bahrain. Premier is also set to introduce an Italian restaurant with a fresh concept.

An added attraction this Eid is the opening of Cavallo-Club Lounge, a venue which features a typical Western set up, bringing an old Texan town to life replete with its own shops, saloon and bank.

Other facilities in the hotel include a health club, steam, sauna, spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, banquet and conference hall, fourfloors of in-house parking and car rental to name a few.

Call 17 811-811 Visit www. atirampremierhotel.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

GAJRIA ELECTRONICS

All-in-one Tablet This slim, good-looking device makes browsing a pleasure whether you’re watching a film or chatting on Skype.

TOUCHMATE is a part of the Quality Group of Companies. With origins dating back to 1988, the company manufactures tablets, mobile phones, computers, IT accessories, peripherals, household appliances and software.

The group’s objective is to provide premium quality, cost-effective products which help ease life’s day-to-day functions. TOUCHMATE is used in corporate and individual settings and is found across various segments from specialist dealers and distributors to supermarkets and retail chains.

TOUCHMATE specialises in continuously offering highly innovative, multifunctional, all-in-one products. A recent example is the Slim 7-inch Dual Core Internet Tablet. The uniqueness of this tablet lies in its built-in front speaker for clear listening and built-in dual camera for chat, photo and movie shooting. It has a capacitive, multi-touch, super-sensitive screen and runs on the latest Google Android 4.4 operating system so one can quickly enjoy Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, emails, apps, games, Skype video calls, approximately 500,000 downloadable free Google apps and unlimited internet access.

A built-in G-sensor for 360-degree rotation enables easy all-side screen view. The TOUCHMATE contains A 1.3GHz dual-core, high-speed, two-times-faster processor for quick internet access, browsing, real motion video, game and movie playback. It also has wi-fi capability for wireless internet and a high-capacity, 8GB built-in memory with 32GB expandable option.

TOUCHMATE relishes in delighting its users with the best possible value proposition and Gajria Electronics BSC is the authorised distributor of TOUCHMATE in Bahrain.

Call 17 225-356 17 556-939.

NEW ARRIVAL

Buy a TOUCHMATE 7ÓDual Core Dual Cam E-TAB Duo Tablet at DUTY FREE BAHRAIN and get

Dual Core CPU 2X High Speed (1.3 GHz) 8 GB B-In Memory expandable upto 32GB www.bahrainthismonth.com

Wireless 802.11 b/g (Wi-Fi) Support 3G dongle High Resolution bright display Latest Android 4.4 Kitkat

FREE 2600 mAh pocket Power Bank & PU leather stand cover Worth BHD 10.000

July 2015 117

marketplace K HOME & KITCHEN

Super Kitchen Sale K Home & Kitchen has more than 400 items on sale this Ramadan season and is urging ‘come one, come all!’ With its 20,000sq/ft grand showroom located along the busy area of Exhibition Road, K Home & Kitchen showcases a wide-range of product lines from world-class brands to cater to your hospitality requirements.

Established in Bahrain for more than two decades, the company has long played a major role in providing the latest collections of premiumquality products.

Some of the well-known brands available include Churchill UK for chinaware, Libbey USA for glassware, Luigi Bormioli for the finest Italianmade glassware, Rosenthal Germany for porcelain collections, Sambonet & Arthur Krupp from Italy for silverware, Paderno, also from Italy, for professional kitchenware, Cambro, USA, for trays and shelving, Zieher, Germany, for tabletop accessories and buffetware and Oztiryakiler, Turkey, and Modular, Italy, for commercial kitchen equipment.

Other products and services also include housekeeping and room service-related items, banqueting equipment and accessories and designing, installation and commissioning of commercial kitchen equipment.

The sales team of K Home & Kitchen invites you to visit the showroom to receive detailed information on the products on offer.

Call 17 296-363

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Biryani Nights

Delmon International Hotel launched its biryani and kebab festival.

Management and staff

Tanuja & Anil

Sandra, Reem & Patricia

Al Gosaibi celebrated her birthday with Silvana’s Birthday Silvana close friends and family at La Vinoteca Barcelona.

Silvana, standing fifth from right, with the Al Gosaibi family

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Lia, Gisele & Ires

July 2015 119

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Kirsty & Ana

Bushido’s Anniversary Celebrations Bushido celebrated its 6th anniversary featuring the talents of Buddha-Bar’s International DJ & producer Ravin, DJ Carlos Campos and DJ Albert.

DJ Albert, DJ Ravin & DJ Carlos

Lisa & Carl

David, Karim & Daniel

Karen & Mark

Store Re-opening Sharif Group re-opened A La Mode accessories and Woolhouse at City Centre Bahrain in the presence of management and guests.

Othman Sharif cuts the opening ribbon

Hanan

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Ibrahim

Waqas

Abdul Rahman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

TADHAMUN SHOWROOM

Sleep Gallery One company is setting out to explode the medical mattress myth with a dedicated and specialised sales area.

Tadhamun Showroom, opposite American Mission Hospital, Manama, has recently opened a new section, the Sleep Gallery, dedicated to selling high-quality mattresses and sleep accessories.

Spokesman Jassim Al-Sairafi says: “People are used to purchasing hard foam mattresses thinking that these mattresses are ‘medical’ and will help them sleep better at night. We are here to correct this misunderstanding.

“In our view, naming those hard mattresses ‘medical’ is a misleading marketing tool. If you look at the way these hard foam mattresses are made you would be surprised. They basically take crushed foam pieces and place them in a rectangular mold along with glue and press them for a long time and then wrap fabric

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around them. The source of the crushed foam in itself is very questionable.”

Instead, what Tadhamun offers is a different experience of sleep comfort. To ensure that each customer finds what he is looking for Tadhamun researched and imported mattresses from three different companies, each a leader in the technology that it provides: Cloud9: Specialises in pocketspring technology and has a good reputation for supplying five-star hotels such as Shangri-La, Marriott Marquis and Anantara, Qatar.

Getha: Recommended for those seeking purity and health, this brand uses a 100 per cent natural latex in its mattresses and has

German and Swiss certifications in quality control.

Cloud Kingdom: If you like the feeling of being submerged into a mattress, this brand delivers just that with all specifications taken from a UK company.

“At Tadhamun Showroom we are always striving to give the best possible quality at the best possible price,” adds Jassim.

Call 17 250-948. Visit Tadhamun. com

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Mexican Festival The Gulf Hotel Bahrain launched a Mexican Festival with the presence of HE JosĂŠ Arturo Trejo Nava, Mexican ambassador in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

A traditional dance in action

HE Jose Arturo & David

Siria, Esperenza & Cecy

Champions League Final CafĂŠ Amsterdam played host to a number of guests for the Champions League Finals of Barcelona versus Juventus. Black Lime entertained guests on the night.

Entertainment from the band

Nayara & Ian

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Collin & Archana

Ari & Linda

www.bahrainthismonth.com

PUMA

Powered by Fans Arsenal fans gear up for the release of the new 2015/16 Arsenal home kit.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

As much as there’s anticipation for the game itself, there’s also huge excitement when football teams reveal their home kits for the new season.

The new 2015/16 Arsenal home kit combines traditional Arsenal colours with modern design and performance fabrics. With its formal silhouette, this new playing kit will be seen on the pitch for the first time this month before the season starts.

This season, PUMA has put the fans at the heart of the 2015/16 Arsenal kit campaign with Powered by Fans, which represents the importance of Arsenal’s fans to the club and players in helping motivate and energise their performance on the pitch.

A Powered by Fans film launched to promote the new kit stars Oliver Giroud, Santi Cazorla, HèctorBellerìn, Nacho Monreal and other first team players.

The new Arsenal home shirt features a granddad collar with a gold piping trim round the edge, the colour staying true to The Gunners’ classic red and white strip which first appeared in 1933. The main body is red to represent the tradition of the Gunners through the years, with bold jacquard stripes running horizontally. The white sleeves feature PUMA’s classic Formstrip, elegantly highlighted with red piping and combined with mesh inserts for breathability. Additional details include gold trimmed sleeve

cuffs, with the shirt back having a contrast white dropped tail back panel.

The replica shirt features heat transfer trims for a lightweight, modern take on classic Arsenal design elements as well as a woven crest. PUMA dryCELL moisture management technology wicks moisture away from the skin’s surface, keeping fans dry and comfortable.

The replica shorts, which also utilise PUMA dryCELL technology, are made for comfort and performance.

Incorporating modern design with dynamic cut lines, combined with mesh inserts and contrast panel inserts, ensures every player can manoeuvre with ease and speed on the pitch.

“The new kit has a traditional classic look which is important to Arsenal,” says Santi Cazorla, Arsenal’s midfield maestro and PUMA player. “I like the way PUMA has embraced our traditional colours with a striking design and materials that really improve comfort and performance.

I know that fans are going to be really happy with this new kit and I am looking forward to pre-season when we can wear it out on the pitch.”

The home replica kit and full collection of fan wear is now available at the PUMA store, 2nd Floor, City Centre Bahrain.

Call 17 178-046 for more information.

July 2015 123

marketplace AMERICAN BEDS

Find Your Comfort Zone A good night’s sleep is extremely important for a healthy lifestyle, so investing in a good mattress and bed accessories can make a world of difference.

For many years it has been a trademark of American Beds to make consistent investments in the highest quality and most advanced mattress technology, guaranteeing its loyal customers a superior sleep experience, unmatched for comfort and durability.

American Beds showroom, located in Manama, lets you find your comfort zone and offers the widest selection of luxurious bed sets anywhere in Bahrain. A fantastic variety of the highest quality pillows, duvets, mattress toppers and bed linen, all promise to give you the healthiest and most comfortable sleep ever.

Amongst various products, the showroom features the revolutionary Restonic ComfortCare range of mattresses.

The ComfortCare Signature mattress includes features such as the nonremovable cushion-top made from gel-infused quilting foam, which gently buffers pressure points and reduces tossing and turning.

These exclusive state-of-the-art mattresses are constructed using pairs of individually wrapped coils and breathable foam that echoes your unique curves, delivering weightless comfort. It’s also quick to respond to your movements as well as dissipate heat to give you a cool and comfortable sleep all night long.

For those preferring a foam-based mattress, American Beds stocks a selection of unique Viscoool technology mattresses – a ‘greener’ product made from sustainable natural, raw materials that contours and cushions your body for a greater level of comfort.

Viscoool uses a new generation thermoregulating Visco foam that contains an added blend of sustainable natural raw materials, scientifically proven to stay cooler for longer and reduce heat build-up that’s normally associated with standard memory foam.

American Beds provides the best advice, service, value and price. From the dedicated sales staff right down to the friendly delivery team assembling your new bed, American Beds strives to exceed your highest expectations and provide total satisfaction from your buying experience.

Call 17 213-995 or email info@americanbeds.com for more information.

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Uber launch International transport company Uber held a launch party in Bahrain at the Café Amsterdam.

Bahrain India Society

DJ Rami

The Bahrain India Society held a dinner at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. Hemant, Abdul Rahman, Abdul Nabi, Mohammed & Vijay

Danya, Zaid, Fouad & Rym Nabeel, Nasser, Mr Jacob & Abdul Rahman

Harish & VK Thomas

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Ratinder, KN Singh & Vijay

Naveen

Julia & Remy

Giuua, Anna & Nabeel

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dayglo shades

Black and white print scarf

Palm tree printed woven shirt

AEROPOSTAL

RAMADAN GIFTING

Spot print shoes

Shopping for presents for our loved ones is never easy but this company has come up with a selection of cool and funky T-shirts, footwear, trendy eyewear, woven handbags and printed scarves so you can accessorise your style or hand over a gift that will be remembered.

Hula girl printed crop T-shirt Floral printed baseball T-shirt

Palm printed classic short

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Floral print denim short

Ethnic edged bag

July 2015 125

marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

A Century of Talent and Passion

PENDANT earrings

Luca Buccellati at the store opening in Moda mall.

Renowned for its traditional craftsmanship and unique style, a well-known Italian jewellery brand opens its first store in the Kingdom.

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Tradition, skill, excellent handcrafting, creativity and use of the highest quality materials are values that have been central to Buccellati, a long-established family firm that has been creating Italian-designed jewellery for a century. It has preserved its stylistic identity by reviving centuries-old goldsmithing traditions in the top end of the jewellery market.

You can now enjoy this Italian jewellery brand in Bahrain as Buccellati opens its first store on the island in partnership with Asia Jewellers at Moda Mall.

Buccellati’s legacy started with Mario Buccellati (1891-1965), founder of the family business. He did his apprenticeship at a very young age at the famous

jewellers and goldsmiths Beltrami & Besnati, where he was fascinated by all the metals and stones, how the craftsmen made use of them and the forgotten antique techniques that dated back to ancient Greece, the middle ages or to his favourite period, the Renaissance.

Mario opened his first jewellery store in Milan in 1919, on Largo Santa Margherita, near the famous La Scala Theatre. He revived and emphasised the use of ancient tools and traditions to bring his creations to life.

Inspired by the style of ancient periods, he interpreted the jewels of the Renaissance era by combining them with his interest and attraction for the Oriental arts. Each of his creations had a rich textural quality and resembled sumptuous fabrics, delicate damasks and Venetian laces. Age-old engraving and chiselling techniques were incorporated into a mix of precious stones and metals for an unusual yet extraordinary combination.

With a knack for drawing and an inquisitive mind, he quickly became one of Italy’s highly respected jewellers and goldsmiths of the period and acquired a prestigious clientele, one of whom - the famous “literary dandy”, Gabriele d’Annunzio, coined him “The Prince of Goldsmiths”. He soon started working for various royal families of Italy, Spain and Egypt and supplied ornamental objects to The Pope and the great cardinals of Rome.

MACRI CLASSICA eternelles

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ROMBI PENDANT

ROMBI eternelles

ROMBI earrings

PENDANT earrings ROMBI earrings

Mario’s success and his entrepreneurial skills led him to open two additional stores, one in Rome and one in Florence, in 1925.

In 1951, he decided to expand the house of Buccellati internationally and ventured into the American market, where he opened his first store on 51st Street, in the heart of New York City. A year later, he established a second branch on 5th Avenue and inaugurated a seasonal shop on the famous Worth Avenue in Palm Beach.

When he passed away, in 1965, four of his five sons took over the family business. Among them, Gianmaria (1929), who had started work as an apprentice with his father from a very young age, followed in his footsteps by passionately learning the meticulous craftsmanship and became notably the driving force behind Buccellati.

He took over the management of the workshops and the creative side of the company in 1966 and conceived and designed every piece coming out of his ateliers. He worked with his brother Luca, sharing with him the vision of turning Buccellati into a worldwide jewellery powerhouse. While Luca developed the business in the US, Gianmaria managed the MACRI CLASSICA bracelets

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workshops and was responsible for the design and production of the company.

A pioneer, like his father in the US, Gianmaria was the first Italian jeweller to set up a shop in Hong Kong in 1970, followed by Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya in the next few years. He also redeveloped his business in Europe and in 1979 the brand became the first Italian house to launch a boutique in the world-famous Place Vendôme, in Paris, where all the jewellery giants are present.

Buccellati has expanded and developed considerably over the years, with Gianmaria’s son Andrea always by his side. Andrea has inherited his father’s artistic talents and supervises all steps of jewellery creation at the Milan atelier and headquarters. He has been the president of the Buccellati Group since 2013.

In true Buccellati style, where creative skills are passed down from father to son, Andrea today is supported by his daughter Lucrezia, a young mother living in New York and supplying new inspirations and trends for the brand’s creations.

Over the course of decades, Buccellati has widened its creativity to silver objects, most of which are one-of-a-kind creations and all MACRI bracelet YG

marked with the typical style that is admired across the world.

In recent years, Buccellati has further ventured into the world of watches, by creating men’s and ladies’ timepieces, which are a must-have for collectors.

Buccellati craftsmanship and tradition can be found in all Buccellati jewels, watches and silver pieces. All the creations are executed with top level techniques and fine handengravings. The designs create a delicate, distinctive aesthetic sensibility and inspire an elegant and delicate femininity.

Buccellati is the Italian “bottega” of Renaissance times brought into the 21st century.

Carried down from generation to generation, Buccellati brings a touch of tradition and culture into jewellery to create a true excellence, which is now recognised and admired worldwide for its timeless beauty.

Visit the Buccellati store (next to Asia Jewellers) in Moda mall for more information.

MACRI eternelle PG

MACRI eternelle WG

July 2015 127

marketplace BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

No More Itching A chronic red, itchy rash that resists treatment is a horrible condition, but help is at hand according to Dr Rajshri Ritesh Gachkal, dermatologist and cosmetologist at Bahrain Specialist Hospital Clinics – West Riffa.

Chronic urticaria is a condition in which a red itchy rash with swelling persists on and off for more than six weeks but can go on for months, or even years.

Some people also develop swelling of the lips, tongue or other areas of the body. Most commonly affected areas are around the mouth and eyes, the tongue, genitalia and hands and feet though the rash can appear affect any part of body.

The condition is most common in women and the rash cycle usually sees old lesions going and new ones appearing over a period of 24 hours or less. The condition is generally worsened by scratching but the ongoing itch may cause distress and difficulty in sleeping.

The cause of the rash is a release of chemicals (such as histamine) from cells in the skin which can be due to autoimmune disease, heat, cold, emotion, exercise, strong sunlight, a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, an allergy to food or medicine or a parasite.

To ease the rash avoid tight clothes, alcohol, hot baths and strong sunlight and keep your body cool.

Treatment can be with antihistamine tablets and creams such as menthol are useful to cool the skin and help to relieve itching. Calamine lotion is also useful and steroids reduce inflammation and may ease urticaria.

If all of these treatments fail, then only two choices remain. One is immunosuppressant therapy which is very expensive and needs to be taken lifelong.

However, if you are fed up with itching and rashes, don’t worry. The gold-standard treatment for chronic urticaria is autologous serum therapy, which is available at Bahrain Specialist Hospital. The doctor will inject your own serum (present in the blood) back in to your body, one injection per week for at least eight weeks and you will be free from chronic urticaria.

Call 13 381-338.

bystander

Chuckle Club The Chuckle Club brought its current tour to a close with three acts – Eman Morgan, Ed Gamble and Damo Clarke.

Damo takes the stage

Chaine Des Rotisseurs Chaine Des Rotisseurs held its end of season Diner Amical at the Capital Club Bahrain. Executive chef Mahmoud Ibrahimi presented his menu ‘delicacies from the sea’.

Guy, Khalid, Jan, Niman & Mohammed

Jordy, Jennifer & Jamie

Tariq & Kelly

128 July 2015

Henry, Madeleine & Dr Reinhold

Pricilla & Percy

Melissa & Ross

Ed & Damo

Rosie

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CITI BAHRAIN

Survey Reveals Local Spending Habits

Mr Dawson, left with Mr Kampani.

A recent survey shows the spending behaviour of locals and expatriates in Bahrain and how economic optimism is encouraging residents to prioritise short-term financial goals over long term planning.

Zurich International Life and Citi Bahrain have released research which suggests that Bahrain’s local and expat populations may be too focused on achieving relatively short-term monetary goals and neglecting long-term planning.

The survey was conducted by The Nielsen Company, a leading global provider of information and insights into what consumers watch and buy. Of the 233 respondents (locals and expatriates residing in Bahrain), 68 per cent said they are optimistic about the outlook for the economy over the next 12 months. They also felt secure about their individual circumstances, with 83 per cent confident that the state of their personal finances will be good or excellent over the coming year.

Rather than spending their hard-earned money, 66 per cent of respondents intend to save or invest any spare cash, with the education of their children and starting a business taking top www.bahrainthismonth.com

financial priorities for 34 per cent of residents.

The next highest financial priorities are investing in property (32 per cent), a child’s marriage (23 per cent) and starting a family (14 per cent).

However, what is concerning is the lack of longterm retirement planning among Bahrain’s citizens and residents, with only eight per cent naming this as their top financial priority. Only 47 per cent say they have taken any steps to secure their long-term future, with just 10 per cent investing in a retirement fund in the last 12 months.

“It is great to see such a strong savings culture embedded in Bahrain with residents prioritising investment in the important things in life, such as their children’s education and their homes,” says Zurich International Life Bahrain general manager Andrew Dawson. “Yet confidence in the strength of the economy could be leading some residents to focus on immediate priorities at the expense of their retirement planning. In fact, supported by the strong economy, now is the ideal time for residents in Bahrain to refocus on their long-term financial goals.”

Zurich and Citi’s research suggests one reason that expats in particular may not be planning for their retirement is a misconception about portability. Twenty per cent of those not intending to subscribe to any pension or life insurance product wrongly believe it will be of

no use when they leave the country, and 36 per cent also believe they have sufficient savings and investments in place to support their later years. While 34 per cent of respondents simply admit that they do not fully understand retirement products.

“Bahrain has arguably the most mature financial services industry in the region and yet misconceptions and misinformation about life insurance and pension products persist,” says Citi Consumer Banking head Navneet Kampani.

“It is incumbent on Bahrain’s financial services industry to do a better job of educating residents about planning for their retirement and raise awareness to the importance of life insurance.”

In December 2014, Zurich and Citi announced the signing of an exclusive 15-year strategic agreement to offer Zurich’s comprehensive life insurance solutions, as defined in the agreement, to Citi’s consumer clients throughout the Middle East. The agreement covers Bahrain, the UAE and Citi’s Non Resident Indian (NRI) business in the Middle East and is designed to deliver value and service to customers who are increasingly seeking a wide range of insurance options in the region.

Visit www.citibank.com/bahrain for more information.

July 2015 129

marketplace

THE WATCH BOUTIQUE

Time Flies A stunning new collection of timepieces is now available in Bahrain for the first time.

130 July 2015

With nearly 90 years of watchmaking experience, German brand Laco has a rich tradition of providing quality products at respectable prices.

From its humble beginnings in 1925, the fledgling watch manufacturer grew steadily and, during the 1940s, produced the now legendary aviation and observation watches of the era.

The company guarantees the high quality of its ‘Made In Pforzheim’ watches and, even today, Laco’s experienced staff perform the majority of work by hand.

This is particularly apparent in the hands of the Pilot Collection. They are thermally annealed in blue and the soft calf-leather strap provides maximum comfort for the wearer.

Designed to meet the rigorous demands of life at sea, Laco’s Navy Collection is both rugged and striking.

These watches maintain the important tradition of highquality mechanical movements to keep an accurate track of time.

There’s often an inexplicable attraction and endearing quality to items that look old and worn, sometimes even when they’re new. Laco captured this feeling with its Used Look watches.

Available in 36mm and 42mm sizes, each Used Look watch is specially finished in unique plating that makes the timepiece appear to be more of a family heirloom

than a brand-new watch. Even the dial and the leather strap have been carefully treated to look as though they’ve seen it all.

To meet the tough demands of the police and the military – and their operational environments – a watch has to be up to the task. With its Tactical Collection, not only did Laco meet those demands, it exceeded them without compromising on quality, its makers say.

One special characteristic of the Tactical Watch is the contrasting colours of the minute and hour hands, which not only improve legibility, but also give the watch a distinct look.

Laco watches are now exclusively available at The Watch Boutique, Seef Mall.

Call 17 530-329. www.bahrainthismonth.com

RAMADAN OFFERS FROM LEXUS

Purchase your new Lexus today and get free 1 year/20,000 km service contract and 20% discount on Llumar services.

Lowest interest rates

Zero down payment

90 days deferred payment

Up-to 7 years installments

One day approval

Ramadan Working Hours: Saturday – Thursday, 8:30am – 1:15pm & 8:30pm onwards. www.lexus.com.bh

Lexus Showroom - Sitra: 17 737 773

/LexusBahrain

MOIC/PC 4729-2015

BEST FINANCE OFFERS

A spectacular new photographic book about the Kingdom of Bahrain

by Andrew Weaver

“The first aerial photography book about Bahrain ever to be produced, containing over 250 amazing images shot almost entirely from helicopters”.

In all leading bookstores now.

For further information and corporate sales contact: (+973) 39445102 or email: weaverphoto@yahoo.com Available in 3 sizes.

RAMEE GROUP

City Sings a New Tune After the Ramadan lull, Bahrain’s after-hours joints return with a bang, introducing a fresh line up of in-house entertainment.

Rock the night away It’s fashionable with a touch a whimsy; Ramee International Hotel’s Rockys Café is where you want to be this Eid. In addition to its stylish atmosphere, long list of beverages and lipsmacking grub, the venue is now home to a Canadian band called Overdrive, who will take the stage every night from 9pm.

They play all types of music including R&B, hip hop, pop, disco, reggae and house so you can dance the night away to your favourite tunes.

Overdrive has Sam on drums, Simon on keyboard, Vince on guitar, Loie on bass and singers Nancy, Oliver and Carolane, together forming a well-knit and vibrant band.

Joining the club’s entertainment set is an Australian DJ who spins a progressive blend, enticing you to groove to house, rock, hip-hop, new age, funk, electro, Motown and top-forty tunes. Call 36 289-349.

The Midnight Cowboy The Wild West gets a whole lot wilder after Ramadan as Club Buffalo opens its doors and giving you a roaring welcome is its new in-house band OVERNIGHT. The talented members of the seven-piece group are Sylvio on drums, April, Max-Andy and Terena on lead vocals, Julien on bass, Gabriel on keyboard and William on guitar.

Their unique energy and dynamic performances will leave you asking for more.

The charismatic frontline makes this band very versatile as they put on a show of intense

choreography and powerful vocals; a blend quite rare to come by. With their diverse musical approach, they take both new and old hits and make them their own. Their unique sound and live arrangements make this power house party band popular on the club scene.

In addition to top-class entertainment, Buffalo’s bar counter is stocked with a never-ending supply of your favourite beverages. Along with the usual bourbon specialities, there are many other heady concoctions that promise to make your evenings even more fun.

Call 39 688-207.

Raise the roof at Warbler One of island’s oldest English-themed pubs, Warbler in Ramee Baisan Hotel calls itself “Proudly old fashioned”. The venue’s interiors feature stony pavements and wooden interiors like that of old British towns, complete with phone booths, footpaths and iron chairs.

Opening its doors during the Eid festivities, the pub presents its new resident band, Converge. A group of dynamic and versatile vocalists and musicians, they perform a wide variety of songs and have an entertaining stage act. Their repertoire includes the latest hits, R&B, disco, dance, alternative, rock, reggae, jazz and crossover music.

While the decor theme is British, the food on offer is truly international. The pub has also been becoming increasingly famous for its funfilled Friday brunch or ‘FRUNCH” as it is popularly called.

Call 17 290-600.

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July 2015 133

marketplace VIVA

Trainees Welcomed

VIVA Graduate Development Programme’s second generation of trainees

A local telecommunications company is thrilled to welcome a new batch of trainees to its Graduate Development Programme.

Mr Al Wetaid with the trainees

VIVA Bahrain’s Graduate Development Programme (GDP) received its second generation of trainees. The new graduates will undergo professional and technical training, combined with work-related projects and assignments over a span of 12 months with the company.

VIVA’s GDP features a strong professional development plan, which has been designed to offer graduates a learning environment with real-time exposure in the various departments including human

resources, technology, finance, government affairs, legal, wholesale and enterprise, as well as commercial.

It also offers the graduates exceptional on-the-job training, an opportunity to qualify for internal career opportunities within the company and also placements through the normal selection process.

VIVA’s GDP was recognised regionally as the ‘Best Graduate Trainee Programme across the Middle East’ at the Annual Training & Development Awards 2013.

The programme has seen the first generation of trainees become full-time employees following its successful completion.

“We were highly pleased with the first generation of VIVA’s GDP members who completed more than 15,000 hours of development spanning various models from on-the-job training to E-learning along with coaching and mentoring,” says VIVA chief executive officer Ulaiyan Al Wetaid. “With the new recruits on board, we wish to replicate the same success keeping in mind their career aspirations by offering them a nurturing business environment with dedicated mentors to guide and carve out a rewarding career for them.”

Earlier this year, VIVA was recognised for its efforts in the field of training and development, during the 8th Annual Outstanding Organisation in Training and Development for Human Capital Awards ceremony, organised by the High Council for Vocational Training and held under the patronage of Minister of Labour Jameel Bin Mohammed Humaidan.

Visit www.viva.com.bh for more information.

134 July 2015

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Ramadan Kareem Ramee Group of Hotels Offers Great Festive Packages

RAMEE INT’L HOTEL CALL: 39413677

RAMEE CALIFORNIA HOTEL CALL: 35559391

RAMEE PALACE HOTEL CALL: 39736547

BAISAN INT’L HOTEL CALL: 38381631

MONROE HOTEL CALL: 36289383

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INNOVATIVE INTERACTIVE Our new state-of-the-art WEB APP is now ready for download

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

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

What brand of cars was featured in the movie Jurassic World? ___________________________

HINT: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

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Who is the general manager of Euro Motors? ___________________________

Bahrain This Month received 72 entries last month, 63 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

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Which Porsche model was recently launched? ___________________________

Winner : Gerivi Battung Second Place : Rea Gamboa Third Place : Lucy Fernandes

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Last month’s solutions

Which restaurant in Bahrain serves Chocolate Shawarma? ___________________________

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McDonald’s Bahrain has launched a community campaign for Ramadan. Which hash-tag is being used to promote it? ___________________________

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What is the name of the film produced by Bahrain resident Mohab Khattab? Salam Neighbor ___________________________ When did French Ambassador Bernard Regnauld-Fabre arrive in Bahrain? ___________________________ What local telecommunications company recently welcomed a new batch of trainees to its Graduate Development Programme? ___________________________ What is the title of the new album

by Florence And The Machine?

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Who got it right?

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

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1. Ruben Lenten 2. Sufrat Ramadan 3. June 18, Gulf Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel 4. Bouncers 6. 2015 KIA Sorento 7. Tunisia 8. BECOME 10. TGI Friday’s

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Ad Seek 1. My Cafe 2. Delmon International Hotel/Al Hamra Restaurant 3. Genprise Co./Pulsar The Watch Boutique/Fortis

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July 2015 137

tarotscope

CANCER

June 21 – July 20 In the grand scheme of things, work doesn’t really feature that highly on your list of important subjects in life so the fact that some changes could be taking place at the office won’t concern you as much as it could others around you over the coming months. However, having said that, if you’ve been feeling a little dissatisfied with the way your career has been moving then this could be a good time to look elsewhere. You are not a person who engages or welcomes pressurised situations and if you feel your employment is taking more out of you then it should, the time has certainly come for you to effect a change.

Card of the Month — The Three of Wands For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

LEO July 21 – August 21

For some time now you have been thinking about an unrequited love that still shadows your thoughts in those quieter moments of your life. It seems that you are not really over someone who rejected your advances many years ago.

Regrettably, it could be that your unhappiness with your current situation in life is leading you down this route but you need to be true to yourself and accept that the two are separate issues. An unrealized love from is not going to resolve the dilemmas currently haunting your present relationship concerns and the sooner you appreciate this fact, the sooner you can find the best solution to matters.

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

Family life has never seemed so good and the future bodes well for all matters involving the home. You will find yourself reflective throughout July and perhaps even discover an emotional side to yourself you were completely unable to admit existed. Love is also in the air for you in a very big way. By this time next year, who you are, where you are and even what you are doing will all have changed and you will also be a lot better off. In short, there is a great deal for you to look forward to and the door to the kind of happiness you have been seeking is now well and truly open.

Card of the Month — Strength 138 July 2015

LIBRA September 22 – October 21 A recent introduction through a friend has had an impact on you and you are surprised at how this meeting has changed your outlook on life. It would be fair to suggest that just recently you have been feeling somewhat isolated when it comes to relationships and many of you yearn the fire and excitement of someone new and invigorating in your life. Suffice it to say this particular individual could be exactly what you are looking for and the signs of something special developing here are particularly strong, so long as you let go of that cautious side and allow a little of the unknown into your life if could prove to be a very interesting time for you.

Card of the Month — Temperance SCORPIO October 22 – November 21

You are about to arrive at one of the biggest emotional crossroads of your life this month when you are presented with a choice that will finally decide the course you take in a relationship and also help determine whether or not certain decisions you made earlier in the year have in fact turned out to be the correct ones. Over the last few weeks a great deal of uncertainty and hesitancy has crept into your life and your thinking could be somewhat clouded by worries you did not expect to encounter. The road to happiness lies open for you but you must first separate the fact from the fiction before you can appreciate it.

Card of the Month — Death

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21

Some of you might be sat at home feeling sorry for yourselves, which is all very well but perhaps a little unjustified when you come to think about it. You see, you are a very direct and single-minded individual when you want to be and the decisions you have made in the past have often been made without always taking the interests of opinions of others into account.

Consequently, when word reaches you in July that an event is being scheduled without your being included on the guest list, try asking yourself why that could be the case rather than flying off the handle. You might be more than a little surprised to discover the real reason behind it.

Card of the Month — The King of Swords

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 What you think you want in your life and what you actually need are two completely different things and this month you may have to face up to the fact that getting your own way isn’t always going to satisfy your inner state of mind. Sure, you might be happy on some superficial level but go deeper and you will soon find yourself admitting that things don’t feel quite as rewarding as they should do. Why not take some time out from this materialistic journey you’ve embarked upon to experience the more spiritual side of life. There is a lot out there that you are missing on a daily basis, which is a shame since your sign – more than most – has the capacity to really appreciate it.

Card of the Month — The Chariot AQUARIUS January 21 – February 20

Your sign isn’t always good with change but over the coming weeks you are going to have to deal with a lot of it – some of which will prove to be very painful to suffer.

However, through it all, you will have the support and love of friends and family to rely upon and when the light eventually emerges at the end of this long tunnel, you may even discover that your faith in a partner has been fully restored because of his or her actions. The most difficult paths are always the ones we learn most from but you’ll look back on your progress through this one with a great sense of achievement.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Cups www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index PISCES February 21 – March 20 You are often adept at getting yourself into trouble – it’s what happens when you live your life in such a carefree manner – but there does come a point when it’s wise to be a little more sensible about how you behave, especially where a relationship is concerned. This month you really have to decide what it is you want from your life and once you’ve made your choice, learn to stick to it. Other people are affected by the outcome of your actions so be a little thoughtful and take their feelings into account as well as your own. On the work front, opportunities come a knocking on the 17th July.

Card of the Month — The Queen of Wands

ARIES March 21 – April 20 July will present you with an opportunity to live out a dream or put an idea into practice that may have seemed beyond your reach for so long. There is the prospect of you travelling away from home for several months and perhaps even renting a new property. However, a relationship may suffer as a consequence and rumours or words of unrest concerning your partner may reach you from an unexpected source. A more long-term solution, which allows your partner to move with you will eventually resolve any issues but it might not be as immediate as you like.

Card of the Month — The Nine of Pentacles TAURUS Apr 21 – May 20 A conquest or hurdle that has hindered your progress up until this moment will finally become surmountable, giving you good reason to celebrate. In turn, this will also allow you to achieve notable success in the work place and there could be the opportunity for promotion as a consequence. On a more negative track, a close acquaintance may become ill because of stress and this will place an extra burden on you, forcing you to consider bringing in some outside help. It might seem like a rough period up until the end of the July but try and look on the bright side and realise that in the long run, it will be okay. You are resourceful and you’ll make it through.

Card of the Month — The King of Pentacles

GEMINI May 21 – June 20 A relationship that was moving along with great promise will quite suddenly hit a snag this month and you may discover a new side to a partner that you never realized was there. It will surprise you and probably knock you off balance a little and some of you may even begin quickly debating the merits of taking a step back from matters to clear your thoughts. This would be a wise decision to make. Just don’t expect everything to still be the same once the dust has settled – either from your point of view or the perspective of the other person concerned.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Cups

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Tom Hanks

Kevin Heart

Ariana Grande

FAMOUS CANCER THIS MONTH

Fashion & Footwear ALDO Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Hush Puppies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Madre & Padre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 PUMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3

Financial Institutions Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . 119 Citibank N.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 HSBC Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Home & Furnishing American Bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Fittings House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,7 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 The Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

Hotels & Serviced Residences Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Al Safir Hotel & Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Fraser Suites: Diplomatic Area . . . . 115 Novotel Al Dana Resort . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Premier Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Ramee Group of Hotels . . . . . . . . . . . 135 The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel . . 108 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Jewellery & Watches Ferre Milano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Panerai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Patek Philippe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,5 Raymond Weil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Watch Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Motoring Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . 89 Almoayyed Motors (Ford) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Behbehani Brothers (Porsche) . . . . . 10,91 EK Kanoo (Kanoo Vehicle Leasing) . . . . 77

Ebrahim K. Kanoo (Lexus) . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC National Motor (Cadillac) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons (Renault) . . . . . . 75

Medical & Dental Services Clero Stem Cell Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Others Air France . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Alliance Francaise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Aptech Computer Education . . . . . . . 35 Bahrain Duty Free . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 37 Cold Stone Creamery . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Gajria Electronics (Touchmate) . . . . 117 Intercol:IAA (Moulinex) . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy) . . . . . . . 41 K Home & Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park 24 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Pegasus Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Seef Properties (Seef Mall) . . . . . . . . 19 Syed Junaid Alam . . . . . . . . . . . Gatefold Tadhamun Showroom . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Technal Middle East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Yateem Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Restaurants & Cafés Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant . . . . . 57 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 McDonald’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 RIC’s Kountry Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Telecommunications Viva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

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

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

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

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

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

July 2015 139

lastword

The Old Man’s Rant

GEG HOPKINS Certain countries (names of which cannot be revealed until prison food improves) block questioning web sites, especially those containing alarming subjects such as we speak of today. So, at risk of being burned at the stake, we bring you news of life’s termination as we know it Jim. No jokes, no funny lines, this edition of the Old Man’s Rant is a stunner, frightening and seriously serious, so don’t bother to write a will.

140 July 2015

Judging by the dates of some of the old magazines we see in waiting rooms, especially barber shops, it might be too late and your awareness posthumous as you flick through these pages while sitting on Cloud Nine waiting to go in, wondering what the hell happened!

Well, a massive asteroid from hell hit earth September 2015, and we are all gone. Google it! Even those arrogant white Toyota Land Cruiser owners who think they rule the road are rid of. A drastic measure but hey!

Coming back to now, the news is front page of the UK’s Daily Mirror in full colour, so it must be true. If Fox News starts reporting it as well, really fear for your life.

It has been almost three months since the word ‘Illuminati’ and the associated conspiracy theory rants appeared in this column, yet there was a solemn promise to include something about it in each article.

No scientific facts collaborate the reality of this uber catastrophe, but it is thought to be some conspiracy the Illuminati have scammed up. It even pre-empts Armageddon, which at least some are supposed to survive. That would be all Virgos then.

Like being locked in a dominatrix’s dungeon, this magazine is strapped to philanthropy, its publishers forfeiting their own wellbeing to warn others less able. No expense has been spared with Skype calls around the world warning one and all to prepare. A pacifist’s solution might be to immediately uproot to Denver, Colorado, where people gather in huddles and converse in ‘wow’ speak with the invisible, as they smoke the envisaged horror away. Claiming drug use as a recreation is just denial anyway, but now business on the streets will be booming, all lighting up to block out the impending doom.

Imagine the state of the place; a stoned dude walks along the railroad track believing it to be the stairway to heaven but wonders why the hand rail is so low. A quick warning was communicated to a commune and caused an instant stampede to the coke shop. Heeding our plea to focus

and stay well away from this evil powder, they agreed and now use 5-metre long straws.

Being pedantic, let’s call it a bucket shop legacy, but there is a scientific boo-boo here. The headline; ‘Asteroid will hit earth in September’ is just so wrong, so don’t panic. Asteroids are orbiting something and become meteors once they start going off the rails.

This is hardly surprising, with all that Denver air and shisha from here wafting to the stratosphere and beyond. Any alien that descends will already be stoned. If a meteor is not completely destroyed by the earth’s atmosphere and actually lands on earth, it becomes a ‘meteorite’. So it will be a meteorite, maybe 100 times smaller, which destroys us, not an asteroid.

Now don’t you feel better having cleared that small matter up in your final seconds? OK, so the original asteroid was bigger than Jupiter and could be about the size of the moon as it enters our atmosphere. Relax; even if it is one hundred times smaller, it would make no difference, we are goners.

For now, asteroid… what asteroid? This is insignificance compared to the fears sweeping through the expatriate community dreading the moment government subsidies are removed and we are forced to pay, on average, something like BD150 a month for electricity during peak summer demand. Most labourers in Bahrain will wish the asteroid came sooner. So chill and gulp more shisha as fast as you can, don’t bother about buying in bulk at the supermarket or ordering anything on Amazon after August this year. Don’t even bother buying the ultra large bags of soap powder to wash your soiled underwear, because where we are going, you won’t need any.

Not only beating out Armageddon, this baby even tops the BBC’s desired finality of having an ethnic, disabled, lesbian president, which sounds like as much fun as an asteroid hitting earth. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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