Bahrain This Month - July 2017

MOTORING | GADGETS | JUFFAIR FOCUS

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Summer Activities Keeping Cool As The Temperatures Soar

Happenings

• Beat Boy Battle • The Big Holiday Camp Round-up • Bahrain Summer Festival

Interviews • Marek Sheridan Takes the Reins at BMMI • New Malaysian Ambassador HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof • Capital Municipal Council Boss Eng Mohamed Ali Alkhozaae

France in Bahrain Our Annual Look at Bilateral Relations

July 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 7

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

‫‪A berry‬‬ ‫!‪special summer‬‬ ‫ٌ‬ ‫صيف مميز‬ ‫ملي ٌء باإلنتعاش!‬

Issue 239

Contents July 2017 HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of July 2017: 21

Summer Festival

Nakhool Tent returns along with big name performers for all the family to enjoy.

21

22-24

Summer Camps

Our big round-up of kids’ activities across the island.

26 B-Boy

Battle

Street dancers fight for a place in the world championships.

AFTER DARK 28 Fantasy

Fest

DJ Mikael Weermets hits the beach at Coral Bay.

26

28

INTERVIEWS 29

An Eye to Development

Newly arrived Malaysian Ambassador, HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof on his plans for the future.

30

29

30

Taking Pride in the Capital

Chairman of the Capital Municipal Council, Eng Mohamed Ali Alkhozaae sheds light on matters affecting his area.

32

Winning Hearts and Minds

New BMMI boss Marek Sheridan talks about his career path and growth strategy.

FEATURES France in Bahrain 37-51

50

58 Bystander Our Bystander pages this month feature Iftars, Ghabgas and majlises galore and we were very happy to join in the celebrations. Our snappers also captured plenty of other events from Italian National Day to birthdays, graduations and more. Did they spot you out and about? You can see more pictures at www.bahrainthismonth.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A special supplement celebrating Bahraini-French relations including French businesses, news and travel.

Summer Activities 54-57

Beat the heat with our pick of fun things to do during the long hot days of summer.

Motoring 58

Stylish Sporting Character

Charlie Holding gets behind the wheel of the new Mercedes AMG C63 S cabriolet.

July 2017 3

Issue 239

Contents July 2017 Motoring Special Edition Makes an Impression BMW’s M240i M Performance Edition is turning heads with its dynamic presence.

62 A Ray of Sunshine and Comfort 60

83

The JAC Sunray combines the comfort of a coach with the space of a van.

64-65 Motoring

News and Launches

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

Downtime

66-67 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town

68 Music: Top Tunes Games: The hot games of the month 70 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 71 Apps: Essential apps 72 Movies: New releases

69 Computer

FEATURE

74

85

Destination Juffair 74-81

A special report on dining, retail and business in one of the Kingdom’s hottest areas.

Dining 83

Fantastically French

Behnaz Sanjana gets a taster of the new menu at Paul Restaurant and Bakery.

84

A Scintillating Selection

The Gulf Hotel rolls out a whole raft of new restaurant entertainment options.

85

86

90

Outstanding Accomplishment

Maki founder is named Restaurateur of the Year.

86

A Terrific Treat

Sumptuous new desserts on the menu at the Butcher Shop and Grill.

87

A Delicious New Addition

Lanterns launches in Amwaj.

90

Table Hopping

Showcase

What’s New: Must-have products 95-105 Marketplace: Latest products and services 106-107 Business Bites 94

94

68

Regulars 109 WIN

WIN

110 Tarotscope 111 112

69 www.bahrainthismonth.com

AD Index Last Word

72 July 2017 5

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THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month July 2017

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

Photography Editor Mona Abdul Jabbar Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

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

COVER Cover Picture:

Summer activities George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

MOTORING | GADGETS | JUFFAIR FOCUS

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

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Summer Activities Keeping Cool As The Temperatures Soar

Connect with Bahrain This Month: Happenings

• Beat Boy Battle • The Big Holiday Camp Round-up • Bahrain Summer Festival

Interviews • Marek Sheridan Takes the Reins at BMMI • New Malaysian Ambassador HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof • Capital Municipal Council Boss Eng Mohamed Ali Alkhozaae

France in Bahrain Our Annual Look at Bilateral Relations

July 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 7

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Welcome to summer. The temperatures are scorching and the long school holidays have begun. But fear not, if you’re staying on the island and searching for ways to entertain the younger members of the family, our Happenings section includes the island’s most comprehensive list of 40 summer camps, featuring everything from water sports to arts and crafts, to keep the youngsters busy.

July also sees the return of the Summer Festival with lots of fun and games in the Nakhool Tent and performances from El Gato Negro and Arab Idol winner Yacoub Shaheen. And in our Summer Activities feature, we’ve come up with some great indoor options to keep the whole family cool.

With the end of the Holy Month, the island’s nightlife scene is starting rev up and we have details of visits from international DJs Paul Darey and Mikael Weermets in the After Dark section.

If you’re planning to travel this month, check out the round-up of fabulous beach destinations in the annual France in Bahrain supplement which also includes a chat with French Ambassador, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre who, after three years in the role, was happy to outline some of his proudest achievements.

Another diplomat graces our interview pages this month as we take the opportunity to welcome Malaysian Ambassador HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof and we also chatted with the Chairman of the Capital Municipal Council, Eng Mohamed Ali Alkhozaae, and the new man in charge at BMMI, Marek Sheridan.

In the Motoring section, Charlie Holding gives his verdict on the latest offering from Mercedes and in Dining Behnaz Sanjana upholds this month’s French theme with a visit to try Paul Restaurant and Bakery’s new menu items.

We’ve also taken a look at the latest developments in one of the Kingdom’s most vibrant areas, Juffair, and, of course, there’s the regular round-up of news from the worlds of business and motoring.

Add that to the latest films, games, gadgets and more in the Downtime section and this month’s magazine really does have all your summer bases covered.

However you choose to spend the coming weeks, take us with you for your guide to a great way of life.

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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Nightlife

July 2017 7

bystander

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran Ghabga HE Dr Dhafer Alumran hosted a private Ghabga at the Gulf Hotel.

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Mr Qotran, Mariella, Dr Jihan & Ahmed

Lilian, Suheil, Henny & Abdul Hussein Dawani

HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre, Ali Yateem, Shirley Yateem, HE Simon Martin & Sophie

Rasha & HE Sheikh Azzam Mubarak Al-Sabah

HE William Roebuck, Khalid & Balquees Almoayed

HE Nur Hoda, Jin, Dr Jihan, Perwin, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran & HE Qi Zhenhong

Fawzia & HE Ahmed Rashid Khatabi

Amer, Jawahari, HE Kiyoshi Asako, HE Alfred Simms-Protz & HE Vagif Garaev

Mohammed & Ahmed

8 July 2017

Mrs Donegan, Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan, Sophie & HE Simon Martin

Mr & Mrs Bseiso

HE Hatun Demirer & Dr Naima

Sarah, Dr Jihan, Sameera, Dr Naima & Rasha

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Dr Dhafer Al Umran, HE Vgif Garaev, HE Qi Zhenhong & Mr Kanafani

HE Abdulrahman Khalil Ahmed Afandi & Fatima

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Man vs Ribs Unleash your inner carnivore!

BD 13.900 for a chance to win a meal voucher for BD 50

Eat as many meat ribs as you can for

Bahrain City Centre, Manama +973 17172323 Offer starts on 10th July 2017 Terms and Conditions Apply

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bystander

Domenico Bellato, Italian Ambassador, and wife Laura, hosted the Italian National Day celebrations at The Diplomat Italian National Day HE Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Italian Ambassador, HE Domenico Bellato, with top officials and guest at the cake-cutting ceremony

Laura & HE Domenico Bellato

Claudia & Julia

HE Taha Abdul Qader, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran & HE Ahmed Rashid Khatabi

Elena, Simonita, Ivana & Elena

Hendrika & Maria

Lorena, Eveline & Valerio

10 July 2017

Karime, Paula, Cristina & Felipe

Dana, Loredana & Cristina

Daniela, Martina, Michela & Isa

Doriana, Antonella & Maria

Zaid & Natalia

Francesca, Daniele & Philippe

Wani & HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof

Arun & Arunita

Luisa

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Maya & Rifat

Elena & Carlo

George & Andrea

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HOME & KITCHEN COLLECTIONS

Seef District, Opposite The Courtyard

(+973) 17840707

casacucinabahrain

bystander

BCCI Majlis The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry hosted a Majlis at its headquarters.

Hamed Al Zayani, Khalid Almoayed, Afnan Al Zayani, Nabeel Al Hamar & Khalid Al Zayani

Osama Al Absi

Nabeel Al Hamer, Khalid Al Zayani & Isa Abdul Rahim

Ahlam, HE Kadri Al Sayeh, Khulood, Khalid Almoayed, Ali Al Shaikh Abdul Mohsin Al Safoor & Deema Al Hadad

Dr Khalid Al Rumaihi & Ahmed Al Saloom

Yasmin & Latifa

Ali

Duha & Layla

Mohammed

first Bahrain Restaurant and Hospitality Forum took place at the Bahrain International Exhibition Restaurant & Hospitality Forum The & Convention Centre.

Leena

Mo, Thelma & Robert

Saeed & Nabil

Richard & Jilian

Ameena, Shaikha & Khalifa

Isa & Abdul Aziz

Ramadan and Eid Festival 2017 Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority officially launched its Ramadan and Eid Festival 2017 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Lulwa, Abdul Rahman, Saad, Abdulla & Noora

12 July 2017

Anoof, Ali & Malik

Mubarak

Fatima

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bystander

This is Bahrain Ghabga

The Bahrain Federation for Expatriate Associations hosted the This Is Bahrain Ghabga at the Isa Cultural Centre.

Betsy & Hani

Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa, HE Sheikh Azzam Mubarak Al-Sabah & Jalal

Abbas & Hassen

Wani, HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof & Shaikh Khalid

Nabil & Dr Hassan

Lulwa, Fatima & Dalia

Shaikha, Manal, Khulood & Huda

Doris & Huda

Phra Punyawi, Phra Channarong & Phra Thainchai

14 July 2017

Khalid, Razan & Yasmin

Mohammed & Dr Maha

Aljazi, Budoor & Jumana

Suad, Shahad & Fajer

Ahmed

Dr Hala & Dr Maha

Fatima, Suad & Abbas

Arwa & Ebtisam

Retak, Bayan & Rayan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Maher & Dr Hassan

Shaikh Nawaf

Shaikh Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Maljis Shaikh Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Shaikh Salman bin Abdul Rahman Al Khalifa, Shaikh Hisham bin Abdul Rahman Al Khalifa & Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Khalifa

Jawahari

Shaikh Abdul Aziz bin Ebrahim & Shaikh Hisham

Shaikh Feras Al Khalifa

Khamis & Mohammed Jalal

Mohammed & Salman

Harris, Vassos, Christos & Andreas

Sabih Khan

Fawaz & Ebrahim

HE Mohammed bin Ebrahim Al Mutawa Majlis Shaikh Salman & HE Mohammed Al Mutawa

HE Zayed Al Zayani & Ali Arrayed

Bashar Al Mutawa & Ali Arrayed

16 July 2017

HE Mohammed Al Mutawa & Jawahari

Jasim Al Mutawa, Abbas Shirazi, Mohammed Shirazi & Bashar Al Mutawa

HE Abdulla Saif

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bystander

Shaikh Nawaf bin Ebrahim bin Hamad Al Khalifa Majlis Shaikh Hamed bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa & Shaikh Nawaf bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa

Shaikh Ebrahim bin Nawaf Al Khalifa

Ahmed Al Baqer, Ghazi Al Rahman & Khalid Kanoo

Nidam, Shaikh Hamed bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, Shaikh Nawaf bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa & Hamid Hatim

Shaikh Khalid bin Abdul Al Khalifa & Shaikh Nawaf bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa

Mazin Alumran & Shaikh Hamed bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa

Business Luncheon

The American Chamber of Commerce hosted a business networking luncheon with Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa.

Yousif, Floss & Madhav

Shehab & Iro

Qays Zu’bi, Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan & Mary

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Qayz Zu’bi & Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa

Thampis, HE William Roebuck & Majed

18 July 2017

Peter & Ratheesh

Jean, Mazin & Robert

Peter, Bob, Sam, Scott, Qays Zu’bi & Jamal

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Bahrain Bourse Ghabga

Bahrain Bourse held its annual Ramadan Ghabgha at the Capital Club for members of the media, the business community and the banking and financial industry.

Hosting the Ghabgha were Bahrain Bourse chief executive Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa and members of the Bahrain Bourse Executive Management.

Hassan Jarrar & Ahmed Bin Hindi

Sana & Dr Ahmed Al Shaikh

Khalil Yousif, Nader Al Ghanem & Abdul Rahim Faqeeri

Rana Faqihi, Narjes Jamal & Shaikha Al Zayani

Marwan Tabbara, Yasser Al Sharifi & Jean-Christophe Durand

Amin Al Arrayedh

Meera Ravi, Rami Al Jallad & PK Ravi

Simone Del Nevo

Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalid Al Khalifa

Hala Sulaiman, Marwa Al Maskati, Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa & Khamis Al Muqla

Ghabga or no Ghabga - media always at work and an open heart interview with Bahrain Bourse CEO Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa

L-R Standing: Maha, Marwa Al Maskati, Hala Sulaiman & Sana L-R Sitting: Mazen Nsour, Waleed Yousif, Amer Atoom & Mohammed Irsheidat

Khaled Mousa, Ahmed Hujairy, Ubaidly Al Ubaidly, Faisal Janahi & Hassan Radhi

20 July 2017

Qusay Al Khalili & Ahmed Sharif

Mazen Shehabi drawing for the next prize

Daniel Taylor, Sattam Al Gosaibi, Aref Hejres & Abdul Rahman Al Shafaei

Isa, Dr Adel & Abdulla

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

Summer Festival FUN AND GAMES When? July 7-August 7 Event? Nakhool Tent Venue? Bahrain Fort Site Nakhool returns to entertain and educate the young talents of tomorrow during the month-long fun-filled journey of discovery that is the Bahrain Summer Festival. This year Nakhool Tent features a wide array of interactive activities and workshops suitable for kids of all ages, broadening young minds and developing new skills, all in a warm and joyous social setting. It runs from 4.30pm-9.30pm and entry is free.

Visit www.bahrainsummer.bh

A TRIBUTE TO ASMAHAN When? July 13 Event? Concert Venue? Cultural Hall The Heritage Ensemble of Arab Music led by maestro Amir Abdel Meguid performs a musical concert that takes the audience on a journey back in time to relive the golden age of music through a selection of the finest songs of Asmahan, one of the leading female voices of the 20th century, whose inimitable tones still resonate in the hearts of lovers of authentic Arab music. It starts at 8pm and is free.

Visit www.bahrainsummer.bh

YACOUB SHAHEEN PERFORMANCE When? July 20 Event? Music Venue? Cultural Hall A splendid concert of authentic Oriental melodies and the aromas of Palestine and the spirit of the historic city of Bethlehem brought to life by the brilliant Yacoub Shaheen. Winner of the fourth season of Arab Idol, this talented young crooner with a golden voice took the musical scene by storm and entered the hearts of millions throughout the Arab world. Tickets are available at Virgin Megastore.

Prices will be announced soon.

Visit www.bahrainsummer.bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOVIE NIGHT When? July 15 Event? Film Venue? Bahrain National Museum The Land, directed by Youssef Shaheen, tells the story of a 1930s’ Egyptian village as it struggles against Mahmoud Baik, a tyrannical feudal lord who deprives its residents of water and steals their land to irrigate and pave a private road to his farm. It starts at 7pm and is suitable for ages 10 and above.

Visit www.bahrainsummer.bh

EL GATO NEGRO When? July 17 Event? Latino Music Venue? Cultural Hall Axel Matrod (aka El Gato Negro) is a Latino from France whose signature style blends various Latin rhythms in a way that toes the line between modernisation and staying true to the genre’s African roots and reggae flavours. With his experience as a street and outdoor performer, El Gato Negro’s concerts are a frenzy of joy, generosity and

rhythm. It starts at 8pm and is free.

Visit www.bahrainsummer.bh

A PASSAGE TO BOLLYWOOD When? August 3 Event? Musical Performance Venue? Cultural Hall All the elements that make the Bollywood culture so unique come alive in one vibrant stage musical presented by Ashley Lobo and the Navdhara India Dance Theatre. Seamlessly blending beloved old classics and modern hits, it has a gripping plot that runs the gamut from high drama and exciting action to passionate romance. Colourful dance numbers make this experience akin to watching a live-action Bollywood film on stage!

Tickets are available at Virgin Megastore. Prices will be announced soon.

Visit www.bahrainsummer.bh

SLEEPING BEAUTY When? July 28 Event? Children’s Theatre Venue? Cultural Hall This original adaptation of the timeless classic all people know and love is definitely no sleeper. Starring students from Bahrain, the show is part of the

Missoula Children’s Theatre’s unique international touring project which travels the world with everything needed to put on a show – except the cast!

Auditions for the roles will be held on July 23, so come and be part of the experience.

Visit www.mctinc.org 21 July 2015

happenings

SUMMER CAMPS FOR KIDS

The long summer holidays can be a real challange keeping your little ones entertained. BTM has rounded up a list of fun summer camps to keep them active and having fun.

When? July 2-August 24, 9.30am-12.30pm Venue? Cheeky Monkey, Saar Price? BD35 per week This leading children’s activity centre is hosting a fun summer camp for children. The month-long event is split into different themes and activities each week to ensure youngsters have a variety of exciting things to do. Each theme involves music and dancing, arts and crafts, messy session, story telling and dress up day.

Call 17 262-966 or 32 322-966.

When? July 2-13, 9am-noon Venue? Yellow Submarine, Saar Mall Price: BD65 per week This indoor play area for kids has lots going on.

Kids can enjoy arts and crafts, treasure hunts, giant Lego playtime and many other activities. It is suitable for ages four to six years.

Call 17 000-037.

When? July 2-31, 8am-12.30pm Venue? Little Pearls Nursery Price: BD50 per week Let your child immerse themselves in music, messy play, languages, fun picnics and field trips 22 July 2017

suitable for children from two to six.

Call 33 558-911.

When? July 2-27, 8.15am-1pm Venue? Budaiya Preschool Price: BD55 per week Travel to the land of dinosaurs, discover the oceans and investigate outer space through science experiments – open for kids two to seven years old.

Call 17 791-491.

When? July 9-26 Venue? JC’s Tennis Academy Price: BD90 per week Football, swimming, tennis and athletics await kids four to 11 years of age. Multi sports summer camp is for ages eight to 12 years and mini tennis and swimming camp is for ages four to seven years. It is open from 11am-1pm for group one, and 11am-4pm respectively.

Call 17 233-111.

When? July 2-27, 10am-4pm Venue? 7th Wave Price: BD225 for the month

Let your kids be productive with some dance, drama and vocal classes. It is suitable for ages six to 18 years.

Call 17 442-900.

When? July 2-26, 8am-noon Venue? Rainbows Nursery Price: BD90 The theme of the camp is castles and dragons, so your child will have a magical time during the holidays.

Call 17 345-090.

When? July 9-26, 9-11am and August 6-23, 12-2pm Venue? British Council Price: BD150 per course Kids three to five years of age will learn through play with TV characters Shaun the Sheep and Timmy.

Call 17 266-166.

When? July 1-August 24, 10.30am-2pm Venue? Life Fit in Janabiya and Riffa Views Price: BD55 per week Keep your kids active this summer with www.bahrainthismonth.com

gymnastics, cooking, circuit training, taekwondo and many others, suitable for ages five to 13 years.

Call 17 692-424.

When? July 2-August 31, 9am-1pm Venue? My Gym Price: BD15 per day for non-members This fitness programme is designed to boost your child’s confidence while having fun with story time, music, arts and crafts as well as gymnastics.

Call 17 566-566.

When? July 2-August 31, 9am-noon or 3-6pm Venue? Skills Bookshop Price: BD100 per month Your kid will learn everything from arts and crafts to cinema and cooking at this camp.

Call 17 681-696.

When? July 2-August 24, 9am-1pm Venue? Play Bahrain Price: BD15 per day or BD70 per week Play is known for its great theme activities like world travellers, by the seaside and Disney week.

Call 17 564-900.

When? July 2–August 3, 9am-1.30pm Venue? Artzania Price: BD165 per month Let your tot try their hand at clay modelling, self-development exercises, sports, dance, shopping skills and cooking, available to kids aged five to 13.

Call 17 640-663.

When? July 2-August 24, 8am-12.30pm Venue? Lilliput Preschool Price: BD190 per month The new premises will feature sand play, arts, soft play and more.

Call 33 449-967.

When? July 2-August 24, 8.30am-1pm Venue? Bright Beginnings Price: BD50 to BD60 per week depending on age Kids yoga, storytelling, drama, cooking, bricks for kids and eco arts and crafts for children aged three months to 11 years.

Call 17 710-405.

When? July 2-August 31, 9am-1pm Venue? Winners Football Center Price: BD120 per month Kids from ages six to 12 can train to be pro footballers at this camp.

Call 38 085-535. www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? July 2-27, 8:30am-noon Venue? Little Village Price: BD40 per week The camp offers sensory play, weekly field trips, music, dance and movement among others for ages two to six.

Call 13 104-746.

When? July 2-August 24, 10am-1.45pm Venue? Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain Price: BD55 per week Wacky yoga, laser tag, sports, self-defence and many more will ensure a fun-filled summer camp.

Call 17 692-424.

When? June 28-August 30, 10am-3pm Venue? Tekkers Academy Price: BD26 to BD65 per week depending on the activity Indoor football and swimming sessions to beat the heat and keep your kids active.

Call 39 319-464.

When? July 2-August 31, timings vary for different age groups Venue? Victoria Dance Price: BD20 to BD150 (depending on the activity). Dance classes of different kinds ranging from pop to fusion for kids from ages three and up.

Call 17 004-382.

When? July 2-29, 9am-1pm Venue? Children’s House Montessori Price: BD50 per week Make sure learning doesn’t stop during the summer with a plethora of engrossing activities, for ages two to eight years old.

Call 17 699-844.

When? July 1-August 31, 5pm-6.30pm Venue? Al Banna Price: BD40 per month Children’s mixed martial arts summer camp for children three to 12 years of age.

Call 36 668-390 or 35 600-792.

When? July 2-29, 9am-1pm Venue? Disney Daycare Price: BD150 per month Your child will learn theatre communication and participate in fun games as well as creative arts.

Call 39 056-662.

When? July 2-August 24, 9am-12pm Venue? Fas TrackKids Price: BD60 per week Eight weeks of multi-themed learning awaits young kids from ages three to nine.

Call 17 250-219.

When? July 2-27, 8am-noon Venue? Evolution Childcare Price: BD200 per month Let your kids enjoy the group games, art, scavenger hunts and Disney movies – open to ages eight months to four years.

Call 17 669-079.

When? July 2-20, 9am-1pm Venue? Sylvan Learning Price: BD200 per month Sylvan camp includes yoga, robotics, coding, maths and art for an all-round enriching experience for ages four to 12.

Call 17 400-227.

23 July 2015

happenings

When? July 5-31, 10.30am-1.30pm Venue? Studio Ceramics Price: BD15 per day Ceramic painting, mix media art and craft activities make it an enjoyable experience.

Call 17 002-911.

Venue? Salcete United Price: BD30 per month Salcete is offering kids professional football coaching throughout summer.

Call 36 276-661.

When? July 1-September 30, 9am-6pm Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Price: BD7 per hour or BD400 per month Swimming, dancing, yoga, sports and cooking await kids aged four to 12.

Call 17 115-000.

When? July 16-August 24, 9am-1pm Venue? Bahrain Ballet Centre Price: BD55 per week Dance, fitness routines, basic needlework, tie dye and many more activities for kids ages five to 12.

Call 17 693-232.

When? Ongoing-August 31, 9am-6pm Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Price: BD25 per day for non-members This fun camp features plenty of outdoor activities and face-painting to keep kids of all ages having fun.

Call 17 669-079.

When? July 9-September 7, 9am-2pm Venue? Learning Plus Price: BD85 per week Besides creative content, teaching maths and English is also given emphasis for kids aged six to 12.

Call 17 590-135.

When? July 2-August 31, 8am-12.30pm Venue? Kidzworld Kindergarten Price: BD40 per week Around the world summer camp offered at the Kidzworld Kindergarten has a host of activities including field trips, water play, cooking and more for age groups of two to five years.

Call 17 715-050.

When? July 2-27, 9am-noon Venue? Alliance Francaise Price: BD70 per workshop Scrapbooking, cooking, storybook designing and artistic workshops for aged seven to 13 will be available.

Call 17 683-295.

When? July 1-August 31, timings vary 24 July 2017

When? July 2-20, 9am-12pm Venue? Ballare

Price: BD15 per class The camp teaches dance forms of all kind, arts, poetry and music for kids ages four to eight.

Call 17 683-295.

When? July 2-August 31, 9.30am-12.30pm Venue? Pingu’s English Price: BD105 per month English language will be taught to kids aged three to six years.

Call 17 002-977.

When? July 2-27, 8am-noon Venue? KG Kids Pre-School Price: BD45 per week Brush up your child’s computer skills, cooking, Quran verses and iPad knowledge.

Call 17 663-556.

When? July 2-6, 10am-3pm Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club Price: BD55 for embers BD 65 for non-members This is a fun football and swimming camp that includes lunch.

Call 17 695-809.

When? July 8-10, 10am-3pm Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club Price: BD55 for embers BD 65 for non-members This is rugby camp costs BD30 for members and BD36 for non-members. It’s a great way to learn the game and practice your skills.

Call 17 695-809. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

July 2017. HAPPENINGS MAKE A SPLASH When? July 2-6 and 9-13 Event? Swimming Lessons Venue? British School Bahrain Summer is the ideal time to enjoy water and cool off, and what is better than swimming to enjoy the summer? Register your kids, aged four to 13, for this intensive swimming course.

Call 17 610-943.

OIL PORTRAIT PAINTING When? July 8, 15, 22, 29 Event? Art Workshop Venue? Building 790, road 912, block 109, Hidd Have you ever wanted to paint someone you love but never tried because you’re worried about your lack of skill?

Anastasiya Kupchenko is an art teacher with over a decade of experience and claims you can make an amazing oil portrait in just one month. This adult only event takes place from 10am-2pm every Saturday. All materials will be provided along with tea, coffee and a snack.

You only need to bring a printed A4 portrait of your subject to work from.

Call 36 448-292.

PERSONAL RESILIENCY RETREAT When? July 27 Event? Self Help Venue? Sheraton Bahrain Hotel This event provides the tools for you to develop your own personalised approach for thoughtfully responding to the challenges you face.

The programme explores the nature of disruption and its impact in the workplace and our lives. You will gain new perspectives to understand what often feels like chaos and learn personlised strategies and skills to become more proactive, effective and fulfilled. It starts at 3pm.

Call 17 533-533.

26 July 2017

YOGA FOR BEGINNERS When? July 3-31 (Saturday, Monday, Wednesday) Event? Yoga Workshop Venue? Namaste Bahrain This workshop teaches the basics of yoga. Participants will learn breathing techniques, proper alignment and other essentials. The workshop costs BD70 for 12 sessions, begins at 6.30pm and is open to adults.

Call 38 855-999.

LEGO FUN When? July 4-8 Event? Stack Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Stack is an edutainment event that brings people together to play, create, build and experience Lego-themed activities. Lego is the largest toy brand in the world and this event is a platform for construction, education, collaboration, art, and fun. It is open from 10am-10pm and is free to attend.

Call 17 558-800.

RED BULL BC ONE BAHRAIN When? July 14 Event? B-Boy competition Venue? City Centre Bahrain Red Bull BC One is the biggest one-on-one B-Boy competition in the world. Every year, thousands of dancers across the globe vie for a chance to represent at the World Final. Sixteen B-Boys earn the right to enter into an all-out battle on the Red Bull BC One stage, but only one will be crowned the champion. The Bahrain cypher is in its sixth consecutive year, where the nation’s top B-Boys will battle it out for a chance to represent Bahrain in Amsterdam on November 4, 2017. It starts at 10am.

Visit www.facebook.com/redbullBCOne/

AN EVENING WITH RISHI KAPOOR When? September 1 Event? Khullam Khulla Venue? Crowne Plaza Hotel

Rishi Kapoor will appear in Bahrain to the delight of his fans in the Kingdom. The Indian actor, producer and director, is set to take to the stage at the Crowne Plaza Convention Centre.

He will perform excerpts from his book – Khullam Khulla – and delve deeper into the narrative, providing one back-story after another to piece together larger incidents in his life.

Khullam Khulla – Live with Rishi Kapoor is not just a rib-tickler. Given that Kapoor has a tendency to veer off from a story to narrate another one, it is a conversation he wants to have that spans the people and the films that have mattered to him.

Tickets cost BD100 for VVIP, BD50 for VIP, BD25 for premium and BD15 for regular and can be purchased from the hotel and all VIVA branches.

Call 17 531-122. www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdark happenings

GET INTO THE SWING When? July 7 Event? Mambo Ibiza Tour 2017 Venue? Palm Beach, Amwaj Islands E Call 39 712-012.

When? Every Saturday Event? Swing nights Venue? Meisei Put on your dancing shoes and try this popular dance style at Meisei. Step back in time to the 1930s with The Shakedown Club, you can sit back and enjoy the music or join in. All skill levels are welcome. Beginners dance lessons are from 7-8pm and the improvers class is from 8-9pm.

Call 17 007-770.

TOP DJ TO PERFORM When? July 7 Event? Mambo Ibiza Tour 2017 Venue? Palm Beach, Amwaj Islands DJ Paul Darey – from Monza Ibiza – drummer Warrior Grooves, DJ Ramy, DJ Cossta and DJ Arvin will take to the stage to enthral crowds with their smooth, chilled vibes. Paul has played in some of the biggest clubs in the world alongside several big-name musicians like Marco Bailey and Super Flu. Pre-sale tickets are priced at BD10 or BD15 at the door.

Call 39 712-012.

When? Every Wednesday Event? Salsa nights by Salsabor Venue? Meisei E Call 17 007-770.

When? July 20 Event? Dish Dash Vibes Venue? Downtown, InterContinental Regency E Call 36 396-333 or 39 664-522.

PARTY, SAUDI STYLE! When? July 20 Event? Dish Dash Vibes Venue? Downtown, InterContinental Regency Popular Saudi DJ duo Dish Dash will perform an energetic set during this special event.

Over the past seven years, they have played at a number of prestigious events by Red Bull, Space Sharm, Pacha Sharm and at many major venues. Their music is punchy, driven and powerful.

Call 36 396-333 or 39 664-522.

When? July 13 Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Bushido Restaurant and Lounge E Call 17 583-555.

When? July 28 Event? GroundRULEZ Fantasy Fest Venue? Coral Bay E Call 38 888-019 or 34 223-992.

When? January 8 Event? Tunnel’s fifth edition Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa E Call 36 897-378.

When? Every Saturday Event? Swing nights Venue? Meisei E Call 17 007-770.

When? Every Wednesday Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Coda Jazz Lounge E Call 34 342-828.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY When? July 28 Event? GroundRULEZ Fantasy Fest Venue? Coral Bay Tomorrowland and Ibiza DJ Mikael Weermets will be headlining this exciting event. In the modern era of dance music, Sweden has done for house music what the Netherlands did for trance and Germany for techno. From electronic titans Eric Prydz, Sebastian Ingrosso and Steve Angello to Avicii, Dada Life and Adrian Lux, Sweden has arguably produced some of the biggest dance performers in recent times. These artists have given rise to a new generation of grassroots talent and one such name that is hotly tipped for huge success is Mikael. Pre-sale tickets cost BD10 or BD15 at the door.

Call 38 888-019 or 34 223-992.

28 July 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

AN EYE TO DEVELOPMENT Newly arrived Malaysian Ambassador, His Excellency Agus Salim Haji Yusof, tells Liz O’Reilly about his journey to the Kingdom and plans for the future.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 30 TAKING PRIDE IN THE CAPITAL 32 WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS

HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof

A

career diplomat, His Excellency served in Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Brunei and South Africa before taking up his first ambassadorial post in Manama.

He says: “Of my previous postings, I found Kazakhstan the most enjoyable and South Africa the most challenging. I’m hoping Bahrain will be a new favourite, I’m feeling very comfortable here. I came here four times when I was serving in Kuwait and I can see tremendous change. The people are the same but now there are many sky scrapers!

“The Bahrainis are very humble people, compared to other places in the Gulf. And the expat community here is large too. I know Bahrain is a small island but I think I will have an interesting time here and enjoy the events that take place. We had the visit of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to Malaysia, followed by Ramadan, so it has been a busy time since I arrived. But my golf clubs came yesterday, so I’m looking forward to playing a round.”

He says that, so far, he has encountered no problems in his community and welcomes the opportunity to interact with his countrymen at the Malaysian Club. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Of possible future developments, His Excellency adds: “There are approximately 180 Malaysians working in Bahrain – mostly professionals and semi-professionals – together with dependents, the Malaysian community is around 400 people. The number has fallen, but from my meetings with the ministries of labour and social development, I see it’s a free market and would welcome more professionals. There are many new projects coming up that will require manpower – so the number may increase again.

“What I aim to achieve in my time here is the enhancement of bilateral relationships in all spheres – they’re already good but can always get better. We cooperate in areas of industry and defence, there’s an air services agreement and cooperation between the chambers of commerce. Bahrain’s Interior Minister will be inviting his Malaysian counterpart to come to Bahrain. Towards the end of the year there will also be a visit by a Malaysian medical university to seek cooperation here.

“Bahrain is also sending a team to Malaysia to open up an embassy, as the country is currently served from Thailand.”

Trade presently stands at USD207 million

between the two countries – Bahrain exports USD143 million in aluminium and oil and Malaysia exports USD64 million, made up of timber, furniture, vehicle parts and foods. His Excellency would like to see these figures improved.

He says: “To see that happen there are a number of avenues that can be used. Since last year we have had a Bahrain-Malaysia Business and Friendship Society and it is planning a GCC exhibition in April next year, which will bring businesses from Malaysia to the region. Also Bahrain’s Economic Development Board has an office in Kuala Lumpur so I plan to engage with their representative.”

In terms of culture, there will be a Malaysian film event after the summer which will screen a selection of four movies. Later this year there will also be a Malaysian/Bahrain food festival in collaboration with the friendship society – it will feature food from both countries but is still in the planning stage.

And the ambassador adds one further ambition for his tenure, saying: “Finally, during my time here, I would like to see a direct flight between Bahrain and Malaysia and I am in contact with the airlines to try to make that happen.”

July 2017 29

interview

TAKING PRIDE IN THE CAPITAL APPLE SHARMA Chairman of the Capital Municipal Council, Eng Mohamed Ali Alkhozaae sheds light on matters affecting his area, one of the biggest in the Kingdom, and the strategies to improve it.

N

o stranger to managing teams and taking big decisions, Mohamed has his eyes firmly on one goal – supporting and working towards the betterment of his community.

A civil engineer by profession, he graduated from Ramaya College, Bangalore University, India. He was a project manager at Batelco for more than 18 years and has been on the board of the Bahrain Society for Engineers for more than 14 years. Mohamed was appointed chairman of the Capital Municipal Council, by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, in August 2014.

“It was new for me and totally different,” he says. “First of all, I tried to understand the rules, what we were going to do, and reviewed the strategy.

“Our services involve roads, sewerage, cleaning, lighting and greenery. This is our core work. Our role is to actually monitor the executive services. We check how they’re doing and initiate new ideas. We try to create investment [for the council] or things that generate income. Also, we look at the regulations – update them, change and make new ones. One of the main roles is planning and building laws, which control the type of construction and zoning. Plus our job is to deal with most of the service ministries, such as Ministry of Health, to follow up on what is required in our area.”

The Capital Municipality covers approximately 42 per cent of the population – around 480,000 people – and areas (divided into blocks) including Sitra, Nuwaidrat, Ma’ameer, Nabi Saleh, Juffair, Manama, Karbabad, Sehla, Jidhafs and Sanabis. “It’s very big and a challenge because it reflects the image of the country for tourism, as it’s the capital,” says Mohamed.

To streamline management and procedures, the council has four committees – technical, service, public relations, and investment and finance – to deal with different issues – as well as public groups to communicate with each district for any problems. “We had a meeting with every block and explained to them that we are not involved in everything,” says Mohamed.

“We also gave them emergency numbers for all 30 July 2017

Eng Mohamed Ali Alkhozaae

services so if, for example, there is road damage, they can call them directly.“ The council is working on several projects – one being the Central Market, which has been upgraded with new air conditioning and water proofing. There is talk of rearranging the parking and ways of managing and controlling the workers, where they will all be given numbers. “We are waiting for the budget for the Jidhafs market also and Sitra because these will support the public living in those area,” adds Mohamed.

Although there are no big projects in the pipeline, the redesign of the popular Salmaniya Water Garden will be starting soon.

Currently, the Capital Municipality has a mix of 44 small and big parks and two walkways for jogging. The council aims to follow international standards, with the support of the United Nations in Bahrain, including details such as the type and height of trees suitable for the Kingdom. On initiatives to increase consciousness amongst the citizens, Mohamed says: “We are working on a programme called

‘My Beautiful Capital’ – as an awareness for the public on how to take care of their city – what to do, how to support us.”

One of the messages of the campaign is that waste is harmful to the environment and health. Mohamed believes recycling is the answer and has been to Germany and Turkey to gather information and meet with companies to decide on the options available. “We should start with things like having a machine in big cold stores for recycled bottles,” he says.

“We’ve agreed with the government to introduce two colours of garbage bins – green and black – for separating household waste.

They are in production.”

With a budget of BD4.5 million, Mohamed says the funds will be used for maintenance and new projects.

To increase interaction with citizens, the council holds a weekly majlis, open to the public every Thursday from 10am to midday.

Although Mohamed has a lot on his plate, he still finds time to enjoy photography, travelling and cooking! www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

Marek Sheridan

WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS Marek Sheridan, new CEO at BMMI, tells Liz O’Reilly about his career path and what’s in store for the future.

H

aving been in the Gulf since 1992, Marek Joined BMMI in April last year taking over from long-term boss Gordon Boyle in a well-thought-out succession plan.

A native of London, he came to Jeddah at the age of 24 to work in marketing. While there, he met his wife Donna and set up an advertising agency before joining Coca Cola and moving to Riyadh and then Abu Dhabi.

In 2002 he went, as head of marketing, to MMI in Dubai, a brand which has historical links with BMMI. Over a 14 year career there he was appointed CEO of the group’s Oman operations, oversaw various acquisitions and functions within the broader MMI/ELR Group and ended up as chief operating officer with responsibility for areas such as retail, marketing, HR and legal.

Of coming to BMMI and Bahrain, he says: “It was a big decision to make the change. I loved the job and I was in a good position, but the opportunity to take the top position for such a reputed organisation as BMMI was just too good to ignore.

“I’ve known Gordon [Boyle] for some time because there are a number of areas of overlap between the businesses. It was his intention, and that of the Board, to make sure there was smooth transition and therefore for the first 8 32 July 2017

months I shadowed Gordon until January this year when I took over as CEO.” He adds that taking on the lead role means not getting bogged down in minutiae, saying: “You have to balance your time between giving your support to management to help them through the current challenges with preparing the team and the organisation to capture the opportunities of tomorrow — keeping an eye on that balance is really important.

“Strong communication is essential, being clear about objectives and making sure all stakeholders are aligned is a critical part of the leadership role – then ensuring that the team have the capabilities and competencies and support where necessary to achieve those objectives is all part of the mix.”

Perhaps the company’s most visible brand in Bahrain is the Alosra supermarket chain, which has seven branches on the island and has just opened a second store in Saudi Arabia. Marek says: “We’re looking to identify further growth opportunities and we’ll also be coming up with an evolution for the Alosra brand which will be revealed in the near future – we will continue to focus on what Alosra does well, bringing customers things they want, creating great experiences, with our team going that extra mile, bringing in specialist bakers, butchers, farmers

etcetera to ensure that our customers can enjoy products made, grown or farmed with the same passion for excellence that we all like to enjoy.

We also have a great ‘think local’ initiative – where we actively support Bahrainis both within our group but also across our supply chain. “We are not just about stacking groceries on shelves — we constantly look at areas where we can deliver delight and value to your customers whether it be organic nut butters made instore, fresh pressed vegetable and juice drinks made to order or artisan breads using our own recipes and freshly baked every day.”

The company also has cafés and restaurants: Delilah’s, Café Amsterdam, La Vinoteca Barcelona and the recently opened Alto at Downtown Rotana – a property which BMMI is a significant shareholder in. With a rich history in logistics and supply chain management, as well as representing global brands such as Mars, Colgate, RedBull and many more, BMMI also has substantial overseas operations in parts of Africa and the Middle East.

Of the future, Marek concludes: “We have to bring sustainable, profitable growth to our shareholders and we will do this by trying to win the hearts and minds of our customers by driving excellence in whatever we do, wherever we do it.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ajoor Majlis Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalid Al Khalifa, Ahmed, Tareq, Jassim, Salah, & Nasser with guest

Group photo with HE Simon Martin, HE Domenico Bellato and US Navy Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan

Group photo with Shaikh Mohamed Eshaq, Shaikh Jassim Al Saidi and HE Domenico Bellato

Yoga Seminar

KIMS Bahrain Medical Centre in association with the Indian Embassy held a seminar of yoga and holistic healthcare at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa.

HE Alok Kumar Sinha

Fatima

34 July 2017

Anand, Fatima, Dr Bhramara & May

Juzer & Mona

Dr Sunil & Anand

Fatima Abdul Al Ahmed, Ahmed Jawahari, Mohammed Al Kooheji

Shuba & Raj Damani

Paritosh & May

Rabia & Khalid

Samir & Fatima

Nancy

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Gulf Hotel Ramadan Tent The Gulf

Hotel hosted an Iftar preview for the media at its premises.

Rahim Abu Omar & Sawsan

Abdulla & Lawrence

Richard, Alaa, Daniel & Carlo

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Usman, Raed, Hoor, Ryan, Samira & Karima

Salah, Charbel & Kumail

Abdul, Enrico, Mo & Adel

Hanna

Mr Dee

Charbel & Husain

July 2017 35

bystander

The K Hotel Iftar The K Hotel hosted a corporate and media Iftar at Kolors restaurant.

Randa, Bilal, George, Anne, Rehana, Farheen & Nitai

Shruti, Ambuja & Suresh

Meriem, Bilal, Sadia & Saf

Anni & Jordanna

Shivanand, Maki, Nitai, Doreen, Rehana & Jimi

Mariam & Anita

Fatima, Ahmed & Momin

Rocky, Alizel & Nitai

Exelon Iftar Party Exelon Solutions hosted an Iftar at Best Western Plus The Olive Hotel.

Saf & Shahid

Varghese Kurian & Mohammed Mansoor

Monika & Sadia

Edith & Nats

Dr Dangle, Asif, Dr Sai, Salam, Mohammed Mansoor, Varghese Kurian, Sameer, Riaz & Aziz

Monika, Sadia, Heena, Saaya, Minaz, Asfia & Meera Ravi

36 July 2017

Mohammed Mansoor, Mohammed Akil, Ashiq & Qaisar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

franceinbahrain

France in

July 2017

A Special Supplement by Bahrain This Month

38 A Successful Posting HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, outlines his proudest moments.

39 Planning Makes Perfect Passionate Frenchman Eric Boss on his recipe for success and plans for the future.

48 French Bites News, events and information from the island’s French community.

50 Catch the Wave An invitation to some of France’s most gorgeous beachside destinations.

Commercial Index House of Travel............................................................ 51 Jawad Business Group.............................................. 45 Novotel Al Dana Resort.............................................. 49 Sharif Group:Rochas................................................... 43 Technal Middle East................................................... 41 Zallaq Resort Co.:Sofitel Luxury Hotels.................. 47

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 37

franceinbahrain

A Successful Posting

HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre

After three years in post, French Ambassador HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre says relations with Bahrain are better than ever and much has been accomplished.

38 July 2017

Setting out some of the biggest achievements in his time, the ambassador says: “The two visits by the aircraft carrier the Charles de Gaulle, which was in the Gulf as part of the fight against Daesh – we are combining the efforts of France and Bahrain to fight terrorism.

“High-level meetings with three visits by France’s new Foreign Minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian, who attended the Manama Dialogues several times in his previous role as Defence Minister.

“The creation of a French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain, thanks to the support of Bahraini authorities.

“The fourth French Week. It is an event that involves the whole of society: politicians, civil society, economics, cultural actors and the public.

“We had a showing of the film Dalida, a biopic; the screening was just a week after its premier in Paris and Bahrain was only the second country to show it.

It was very well received and we will have another screening in October.

“I was also very proud to have the world-famous shoe designer Christian Louboutin visiting Bahrain.

Thanks to his gala dinner we were able to help disabled children at both the RIA Institute and the Down’s Syndrome Society – in fact, I personally presented cheques to the directors a few days ago.

“We also welcomed a senator from the Alsace region.”

The ambassador added that his tenure has seen two landmark environmental developments – an initiative on the Hawar Islands aimed at preserving the seashore, which saw divers measuring the water levels and things such as pollution; and also a major participation in World Environment Day with a round table alongside the UN Environment Agency for West Asia.

In the field of aeronautics, Gulf Air placed an order for 29 aircraft with the French- and German-based Airbus at the last Bahrain International Airshow in 2016. And the ambassador proudly adds: “The new airport terminal is a concept of ADP International [which won the bid to design and supervise the facility] and another French company, Thales, has just been announced to provide the security and operations management system.,” Following a meeting between His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the then French President, Francois Hollande, in 2014, the Bahrain-French Town Planning Initiative was set up with Expertise France aimed at improving planning and infrastructure in urban areas. “This has led to a restructuring of urban planning policy under the guidance of the Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa,” says His Excellency. “One of the major projects is the restoration of the seafront from Juffair to Qal’at al-Bahrain for which proposals are due by spring 2018.”

And a big development is expected next year when the French School will expand to cater for more than 300 extra students with a smart building which will allow around 80 per cent of pupils to learn without books. “It will be the first French school in the Middle East to go digital,” says His Excellency. “And this year is also the first year of validation allowing Grade 12 students access to all French universities.”

He adds that there are further initiatives and business exchanges planned for the future saying: “We are looking at developing the IT sector up to nano technologies and helping to implement new practices. We’re organising a start-up incubator as this is an area in which France enjoys very high ranking – it’s an objective to bring video game construction to Bahrain and make it very accessible.”

In the meantime he is looking forward to the third session of the bilateral plenary sessions, due to take place in November, at which the two countries’ foreign ministers will look at areas for potential cooperation – political, cultural, judicial, medical and human rights. www.bahrainthismonth.com

franceinbahrain

Planning Makes Perfect Eric Boss

APPLE SHARMA A passionate Frenchman and a successful entrepreneur, Eric Boss talks about his career and zeal for event management.

When I first met Eric, one of the things I noticed was a scarf that made him look very distinguished. He was dressed just as sharply when I interviewed him this time, in the capacity of CEO and founder of Red Scarf Agency.

Born and raised close to Paris, Eric studied marketing and communications at a renowned institute in the French capital and started his career working for the secretary general of one of the biggest luxury groups in the world – LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy). He then moved to Brussels, where he was in charge of organising major-scale events for the European Commission (EC). After a brief stint with a small company that was working with the EC and the GCC Chamber of Commerce in Bahrain, and having met his wife only three days after coming to the island, Eric decided to stay back and establish his own event management business. With just business cards in his pocket and a hunger for success, he started networking and building connections. “It was 2008 and there was potential,” he says. “I started from scratch with almost nothing. I didn’t even have a company and step by step I just developed it and the clients. I had my first client in December 2008; it was the opening www.bahrainthismonth.com

ceremony of Jewellery Arabia. Slowly but surely, the business grew and I did a major event for Cisco in 2010, signing a three-year contract thereafter.”

After a short lull, the company grew fast and Red Scarf Agency began making its presence felt in the market.

It deals mainly with event management and brand activation. “We provide promotion services – staffing, international entertainment, hostesses, sound and light, marketing campaigns with malls, and tailor-made events,” he says. “Bahrain is a small country but there are a lot of opportunities and potential for development in terms of events, tourism and also corporate activities that need to be created for companies, institutions and ministries. We faced challenges in the last few years, but now it’s getting better. Tamkeen and the ministries are helping as well – promoting the country and attracting more tourists. So there are more places opening – hotels, malls and restaurants. This is giving a sign as well to the market that we need to spend money to make things better.”

The agency has been involved in some largescale events, including a recent Indian wedding (one of the largest to take place on the island); the FIFA Congress held a couple of months ago; and more. However, its biggest campaign so far has been the conceptualisation and realisation of the Layan launch for Bin Faqeeh. “We built a park of

8,500sq/m from scratch, with provisions for electricity, water, toilets and food,” says Eric.

“Everything was constructed for this four-day event, where we had 3,000 to 4,000 people. It was a big success and very impressive.”

Eric believes the keys to a successful event are organisation, lighting, delivering beyond expectations, strong relationship with clients and teamwork, and he adds: “The most challenging part of my job is to meet the deadlines because sometimes you have 12 hours to do a set-up that needs 25. The difficult part is handling the stress while supporting my team to deliver our very best.

“The reward for me is a happy client – a simple thank you at the end is enough. When you see people coming to the event and saying ‘wow’ – that’s your reward.”

Eric’s future aspiration is to go into the food business. Professionally, he wants to be able to bring international experience to Bahrain by developing musical events – concerts and shows, by extending the virtual reality market, and getting closer to the needs of his clients.

His advice to budding entrepreneurs in the industry is to have passion, vision and organisational skills.

Describing himself as a kid at heart, he says: “We have one life – I love to have fun and I enjoy what I do, a lot.”

Eric shares the same enthusiasm in his personal life too – he loves sailing, sports, food and playing with his children.

July 2017 39

franceinbahrain

TECHNAL MIDDLE EAST

An Innovative Aluminium System The latest offerings from this leading French company that provides performance and security in an attractive package.

Galene HP corner section

Galene HP roller details

40 July 2017

Technal Middle East (TME) is the Bahrain-based arm of the French international architectural aluminium systems supplier, TECHNAL®.

TME has been serving the regional market for almost 40 years offering a wide range of technicallyadvanced proprietary products and bespoke solutions – specifically developed to meet clients’ requirements – including innovative solutions for all types of architectural aluminium facades, skylights, sunshades, windows, doors, office partitions, balustrades and blast- and bullet-proof applications.

A recent addition to its extensive range is the Galene HP (module width 140 mm) lift and slide system for sliding doors, which has a smooth design and simple lines ensuring high performance across the areas of acoustics, heat and cool air retention, security and weather-tightness.

Aside from its robust performance and sleek looks, the Galene HP enjoys the RC2 and RC2N classification of burglary resistance offering peace of mind wherever it is used.

The Galene HP is available in a wide selection of configurations such as one leaf slide with one semifixed, or both leaves slide on double rail tracks, as well as special frame integration for façade adaptation. It can accommodate large dimensions with a maximum of width 3,200mm x height 3,400mm per leaf that provides maximal glass vision area with a maximum weight of 400kg and infill thickness up to 40mm.

Locking mechanisms are fitted at either two or five points on the frame, depending on the height of the opening vent. There is a flush locking streak on the frame, handles are mounted onto a 10mm square and, when the slider is closed, the locking mechanism ensures compression of the double seal on upper, bottom transom and also on the vertical fixed leaves.

The mechanism requires little effort to lift the sashes thanks to the use of special long-lever handles and

the sliding movement is smooth and quiet even in case of heavy sashes.

The lift and slide mechanism allows the guiding rollers to withdraw when the leaf is closed and the roller track system ensures soft movement and easy operation even with exceptionally large leaves. In addition, the track has an integrated cleaning brush that ensures smooth, quiet and durable operation.

A comprehensive seal system mounted on the upper sash ensures weather tightness in either high or low positions. Weather tightness between seals is also ensured by a PVC interlock fastened with a co-extruded seal and concealed fittings. The slider is thermally insulated and additionally gives excellent performance across areas such as water tightness, wind resistance and air permeability.

The system comes in a wide range of finishes and colours to meet individual project requirements, enhancing existing buildings and offering architects and designers greater freedom.

As with all TECHNAL® products, only the best materials and parts are used to minimise maintenance and ensure long-term performance giving customers the assurance of high quality guaranteed by the TECHNAL® name.

Hesham Kameshki, marketing and business development manager at TME, says: “This is a new development on the lift and slide range of TECHNAL® systems that incorporates a completely new technology concept for large dimensions with high weathering and security performances that offer endusers ultimate comfort and peace of mind at their homes or offices. Launched by TME for the Middle East during the Big5 Show 2016 in Dubai, it has been well received and acquired for several landmarks in the GCC.” Call 17 225-777. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The world looks better

Creativity: boschyserret.com 3D Image: beauty&thebit

Technal, architectural aluminium glazing systems for an improved quality of life: even distribution of natural light, large dimensions, high performance acoustic insulation and energy efficiency. Aluminium building systems that are suitable for the most contemporary of creative architecture, with a diverse range of styles, finishes and textures.

Aluminium building systems that are in tune with today’s concerns: the environment, security, comfort and accessibility.

For a more comfortable living space.

For more harmonious towns and cities.

For a better world.

Windows - Doors - Façades 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

franceinbahrain SHARIF GROUP

Parisian Inspiration This French fashion designer’s latest watch collection takes its cue from the narrative of a chic Parisian couple on a romantic weekend break, following them to the lovely landscape of Normandy.

Six distinct themes in the new Pierre Cardin Timewear line reflect the different facets of a visit to the Normandy region, while also capturing key fashion trends.

One feature that is unchanging is the quality of materials and workmanship. Innovative design elements are constantly being introduced to update and enrich the lines.

For the more luxurious and technically refined Swiss-made collection, there are 100 new references across 12 families, plus special gift sets.

Picpus A stalwart of the Timewear collection, this men’s watch is distinguished by its round dial inside a cushion-shaped case, which has long been appreciated as an outstanding vintage design.

This season sees the introduction of a large (44mm) three-hands multifunction watch with sub-dials for day/date/dual time, which is not only more technically advanced than previous editions but also transforms the retro look with a more forceful and sporty attitude.

It is offered in four leather strap versions, and four bracelet models, each providing the option of a petrol blue dial.

La Tour This model is an extension to the successful La Tour women’s two-hand watch. The feminine design has been refreshed with a highly innovative dial that references the geometrical influences of the ’60s with a faceted grid pattern.

The space between the dot indices on the quarter-hours is adorned with further metal dots in a diamond shape, with square-cut stones on the bezel and the lugs. The bead pavé bezel adds a note of glamour.

It comes in three leather strap models and six steel bracelets.

Fargeau This latest addition to the line is a men’s 44mm three-hand watch with date. Its round case is enlivened with discreet decorative detailing on the bezel, while the multi-layered dial 42 July 2017

Picpus

design creates a succession of concentric circles that conjures the orbit of the planets in the solar system.

On the chapter ring, the date is innovatively displayed in an arc between three and six o’clock, to emulate the mysterious passage of a comet through the sky.

It is offered in five leather straps and five steel bracelet models, both including a midnight-blue dial.

Hoche Building on the success of the technically refined Hoche timepiece, Pierre Cardin now extends this line with a men’s 46mm three-hand chronograph with date. It retains the signature faceted bezel of the original design but asserts its individuality with a new dial.

In keeping with the galaxy theme, it features sporty and eye-catching contrasts in the colouring with vivid red or blue second and sub-dial hands.

It is offered in three leather and four steel bracelet versions, again with midnight blue as the dial hue.

Landon This new women’s 34mm three-hand chronograph with date harnesses the mystery of the universe. Its round case is lavishly embellished with a full row of stones on the bezel, while the dial features a threedimensional pattern of concentric circles that suggest the planets orbiting the sun or the rings of Saturn. The golden dial of one model imitates the pale yellow colour of this planet. The circles draw the eye to the indices that are marked by sparkling stones.

It comes in four smooth leather strap (black or white) and four rippling steel bracelet models.

Tolbiac A highlight of the Winter Garden family, this is a women’s 35mm two-hand watch with an ultrafeminine design.

The unique iridescence of precious motherof-pearl shimmers over both the dial and the bezel. The elegant simplicity of the numberless dial with its crystal indices focuses the attention on the metal tracery decoration over the bezel, the arabesque pattern of which is a fanciful interpretation of the famous Pierre Cardin logo.

La Tour

Fargeau

Landon

Hoche

Tolbiac

The mother-of-pearl comes in pure snowy white, vibrant sky blue or baroque purple, and the watch is available in three leather strap (including purple on purple) and six steel bracelet versions.

These collections are available in Bahrain at A La Mode outlets.

Call 17 179-854 or visit www.sharifgroup.com/alamode. www.bahrainthismonth.com

franceinbahrain

JAWAD BUSINESS GROUP

French Fancy This prominent company is the distributor of a wide range of French products that have customers saying ‘Ooh la la’.

44 July 2017

As a major wholesaler and distributor in Bahrain, Jawad Business Group (JBG) represents and distributes more than 100 world-class brands to retailers such as hypermarkets, supermarkets, cooperatives and grocery stores. In addition, through a dedicated food service team, the company services the Kingdom’s hotel catering and restaurants sectors.

Brands include international and regional household names Evian, Badoit, Monin, Loc Maria, Volvic, Bonne Maman jams, Fonterra (Chesdale and Anchor), Snapple, Highland Spring, Libby’s, Hershey’s Chocolates, Vileda, Mentos and Fruitella, Ferrero Rocher, Frito-Lays crisps, Emborg frozen products, Americana meat and cakes, KDD juices, Al Shifa honey, Tabasco pepper sauce, Walker’s shortbread, Smucker’s preserves, Al Safi Danone, Barilla wholewheat pasta, Sweet ‘n’ Low, Crabtree and Evelyn, Tiptree jams and preserves, Sunbulah pastries, Weetabix cereals, Dorset cereals, Toggi, Tchibo coffee and many more.

JBG has interests in five strategic groups – convenience stores; fast-moving consumer goods distribution; fashion and home retail; coffee shops; and restaurants.

“The diverse and encompassing scope of our businesses provides our loyal customers with products and services as varied as groceries and food products, fashion and footwear for all ages, kitchenware, bed and bath and accessories, and a choice of cuisine from a range of international restaurant concepts as well as the best travel and leisure products from around the world,” the company says.

In the fashion and home retail business, JBG holds the franchise for several renowned international brands such as BHS, Mango, Quiz, Origem and Hunkemöller. In the footwear business, JBG operates Hush Puppies and Shoeciti, throughout the GCC states.

JBG’s restaurant division runs the franchise for Costa Coffee, Chili’s, Dairy Queen, Burger King, Papa John’s Pizza and Outback Steakhouse, throughout the GCC states. JBG is one of the largest franchise partners for Costa Coffee in the world.

Jawad Supermarket, Jawad Metro, Jawad Express and 24 Hours Market convenience stores across Bahrain continue to offer great service for customers.

JBG also operates its own logistics facilities in Bahrain and the UAE. www.bahrainthismonth.com

franceinbahrain SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Summer Special This summer, book yourself a delightful getaway with an enticing offer at this five-star hotel, which combines French art de vivre with traditional Bahraini style.

With its idyllic setting and fantastic amenities, the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa embodies the proverbial oasis in the desert – only better!

Throughout this month, an amazing promotion awaits those who wish to escape from the daily grind. Book a superior room with a breathtaking view of the sea and breakfast for two for a nominal fee of BD99.

You will enjoy their top-of-the-line facilities and activities, ensuring a blissful stay for you and your family. The regally furnished property features 21 Prestige and six Opera suites, which come with private pool, and the largest Royal suite in Bahrain oozing imperial décor and charm.

The Prestige chambers effortlessly blend Bahraini and French cultural influences – with

intricate Arabian details etched on the ceilings and traditional Parisian furnishing.

The Opera suites take you on a journey to sensational destinations like Morocco, Turkey and India, each with a theme that showcases the culture of these countries.

Charmaine & Dilip

Guests can experience the only thalassa sea therapy in the Middle East resulting from unique treatments combining natural ointments and seawater, which contribute to wellness and radiant beauty.

Call 17 636-363.

Riaan, Elizabeth & Thess

Ramadan Tent

Sofitel Bahrain hosted a VIP dinner at its Layali Al Zallaq Ramadan Tent.

Thess, Bastien, Clariss & Shien

Nick, Sylvia, Rhys & Ali

Habiba, Muna, Ebtisam & Ghezlan

46 July 2017

Dalila

Rasool

Ebrahim

Said, Khalid, Jameel & Dani

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Magnifique July Offer FROM

BD99 NET BOOK A SUPERIOR ROOM WITH SEA VIEW INCLUSIVE OF BREAKFAST FOR 2 To Avail Offer: Please Quote The Code: BTM99 For Details, Please Contact:

H6722@SOFITEL.COM

(+973) 17636363 Special offer valid only during July 2017.

Special rates offered for group bookings.

Terms and conditions apply.

frenchbites

Legion Relaunched

The Bahrain branch of the Union des Français de l’Étranger (UFE), a French organisation aiming to defend the interests of French citizens abroad, was recently relaunched under the presidency of Rodolphe Melki. The relaunch took place during a visit by the delegated president of the union François Barry Martin-Delongchamps, in the presence of the Ambassador of France, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre.

The organisation was founded in 1927 and has branches in more than 100 countries around the world where there is a significant French or Francophone population.

To mark the occasion the UFE held a pétanque tournament, featuring world champion Marc Foyot, which was won by enthusiastic player, Shaikh Hamed.

Supermarket Swap

Security Systems Awarded French technology firm Thales and SITA has been chosen by the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications to provide the security and operations management system for Bahrain International Airport.

The appointment is part of the USD1.1 billion airport modernisation programme which will double capacity to 14 million passengers per year by 2020.

The ongoing programme includes the construction of a new passenger terminal and the expansion and refurbishment of the existing terminal.

As the master system integrator, Thales will deliver an innovative security system ensuring continuity of operations, centralising the airport operations management and meeting all the safety and security requirements. This system will be embedded with all the cutting-edge technologies needed for airport management such as smart video-protection, access control and biometrics, IT and telecommunication infrastructures.

Velo Matters

Bahrain’s home-grown cycle team, Merida, will send a nine-man squad for its debut participation in the Tour de France, due to begin on July 1.

Spain’s Ion Izagirre and Italy’s Sonny Colbrelli are the team’s headliners. Izagirre, strong in the time trials and on the climbs, will enjoy a leadership role in the Tour for the first time in his career after several years with Movistar riding in support of Alejandro Valverde and Nairo Quintana. Colbrelli, who has five career Giro starts to his name, will be making his Tour de France debut after a strong spring.

The full Bahrain-Merida line-up for the race is: Janez Brajkovic, Ondrej Cink, Yukiya Arashiro, Tsgabu Grmay, Ion Izagirre, Sonny Colbrelli, Borut Božic, Javier Moreno, Grega Bole.

UAE retail giant Majid Al Futtaim (MAF), which owns City Centre Bahrain, has acquired the Geant supermarket franchise owner, Retail Arabia, from BMA International.

Retail owns 26 stores operated under French supermarket chain Geant across the UAE, Bahrain and Kuwait and four Gulfmart supermarkets in Bahrain.

According to MAF all the acquired stores, including hypermarkets, supermarkets and convenience stores, will be rebranded under Carrefour, the French supermarket brand it franchises in the Middle East and North Africa.

This will increase the brand’s footprint to 11 stores in Bahrain and jobs are expected to be secured.

48 July 2017

Grand Prix Returns Racing fans will be delighted at the news that the French Grand Prix will return to the Formula One calendar next year, for the first time since 2008, as part of an unprecedented triple-header with Austria and Britain.

The governing Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has published a 21-race 2018 calendar with France and Germany’s Hockenheim, also absent this year, returning while Malaysia drops off.

The race at Le Castellet, inland from Marseille, will be on June 24, avoiding a clash with the Le Mans 24 Hours on June 16-17. www.bahrainthismonth.com

NOVOTEL BAHRAIN AL DANA RESORT

A Sublime Stay This majestic seafront property offers Arabic hospitality with a touch of French flavour to guarantee a blissful experience.

Nestled on the shores of the warm blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, the Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort makes for the perfect getaway.

With its traditional Arabic-style architecture, the 166-unit property, which incorporates king and twin rooms as well as 37 suites, has gained a reputation for excellent, family-friendly service since it opened in 2003.

The accommodations boast amenities such as tea and coffee-making facilities, mini bar and satellite television. The suites also come equipped with microwaves.

You can dine at either Zytoun, where you will find international cuisine cooked with an Arabic twist, or La Perle, a fantastic seafood eatery. It has a fish market concept, where you can choose the fresh catch of the day and have it prepared to your liking. An unlimited buffet with delightful fare can be had every

day. Both venues have ongoing promotions such as the Arabic brunch every Friday, a daily business lunch and barbeque night on Thursdays.

The pool bar has a selection of drinks and snacks that guests can enjoy in a relaxed atmosphere, and the Bellevue bar offers great views over the sea and the city skyline, and happy hours, with all beverages at half price

from 6pm-7pm and 9pm-10pm.

Meeting and conference facilities are available with a capacity of over 100 people.

Take advantage of the full spectrum of benefits by signing up to Novotel’s loyalty scheme and get access to exclusive member deals from the first visit.

Call 17 298-008.

BAHRAIN RESIDENTS ONLY

Single occupancy 57BD nett inclusive of breakfast Double occupancy 62BD nett inclusive of breakfast Phone +973 1729 8411 • novotel.com • accorhotels.com • H3600@accor.com • www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 49

franceinbahrain

Catch the Wave A beach in Brittany

BTM rounds up the most beautiful beach destinations to visit in France this summer.

Too often, tourists flying to France check Paris off their lists and think they’ve gotten a taste of everything the country has to offer. However, there are many other diverse landscapes and cultural destinations – from renaissance palaces to postcard-perfect coastlines. And the French Riviera isn’t the only beach spot.

Read on to discover some travel inspiration for the holidays.

France’s beaches along the Mediterranean coast are nothing short of breathtaking. The sophisticated coastal towns spoil visitors with endless days of sunshine and welcoming stretches of sand dotted with shady cabanas.

Corsica

Venture off the mainland to the island of Corsica and you will find turquoise waters to rival any tropical beach destination.

Palombaggia is known as Corsica’s most beautiful stretch, with white sands bordered by an evergreen forest. A notable mention goes to Porto-Pollo beach – a long white arch of sand in a bay sheltered by green hills that resembles those in Mauritius and the Seychelles.

Snorkelling is a must as the water is crystal clear and filled with fish.

50 July 2017

Normandy

Nice

Nice has a pretty stretch of beach covered with smooth pebbles and stones, offering a combination of free and paid sections to sunbathe on. Some of the public beaches offer amenities such as chaise lounges and umbrellas for a reasonable fee. Castel Plage is a wonderfully sheltered spot with comfortable loungers, as is Opéra Plage, the next in line.

The classiest patch on this strip is the Plage Beau Rivage, with its art deco signage announcing the steps down to the blue and white livery of mattresses and umbrellas.

Normandy

The place is speckled with mostly shallow beaches, with a few exceptions. One of the deep-water beaches is Étretat, which boasts a sterling reputation among artists and literary types because of its tantalising coastline. Walk along the Chemin des Douaniers for the best views of the limestone cliffs and the Falaises d’Étretat – the famous arches that inspired painters like Monet and Courbet. The English Channel makes for a chilly swim even in summer, but the panoramic cliff top views at sunset give Étretat year-round appeal. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Arromanches is a golden sand beach that is great for picnics and reading books with nothing but the sound of the waves. Omaha, a treat for history buffs, is best on a short walk. Start with a trip to the Memorial Museum in town for context, and then head to the beach itself.

Collioure

This village, just a few miles from the Spanish border, may not have the infamous reputation for swanky nightlife but, with multicoloured wooden boats in the harbour, rows of pastel buildings overlooking the ocean, and the 17th-century Eglise Notre Dame des Anges jutting right up to the waterfront, Collioure takes the cake for Instagram-readiness. Its pastel row houses ascend over a small bay that twinkles like wet paint. In summer the beaches fill up with families and a popular choice is Plage de Port D’Avall. At night Collioure’s cobblestone streets will make you want to leave the rat race behind and live here.

St. Tropez

St Tropez gained recognition after Brigitte Bardot emerged from the emerald waters of Pampelonne beach. The town has become a melting pot for the rich and famous of the showbiz and creative industries. The crowd ranges from Oprah Winfrey to Leonardo DiCaprio and everyone in between. The harbour is filled with mega-yachts, and the clubs and restaurants are packed with A-listers enjoying the carefree atmosphere.

The beach at Pampelonne is one of the most popular and is home to the famous Nikki Beach Club. However, the Plage des Salins is a more modest option and has nothing but sand for about 600 metres.

Brittany

Despite being set significantly back from the sea on the estuary of the River Léguer, the Bay of Lannion gives its name to a huge coastal area – and it’s the bay rather than the town that is most likely to impress. At low tide, you can walk on the sand that leads gently to the sea. The St Malo beach stretches east of Paramé. When the tide is low, you can walk out to the tiny island of Grand-Bé – the walk is so popular that sometimes you even need to queue to get onto the short causeway.

French Riviera

Every BD 100 Spent @ House of Travel will be entitled for a Raffle Coupon

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 51

bystander

Vlada, Julia, Ruby, Ryan & Anca

Linda

Birthday Party

Ryan Ernst, the Tony Stark of Bahrain, hosted his Birthday party at CODA Jazz Lounge with a special guest performance from the UK’s House of Angels.

Lisa-Marie, Ryan & Dihann

Lama & Susie

Cat, Lisa-Marie, Ryan & Phoebe

Andreas & Emilia

Fatya, Ayda, Mwai & Mahi

Emilia, Reem & Ruby

Ray, Vesna, Ryan & Turki

Jeremy & Ryan

Serengue, Amjad, Dessi, Ryan & Ahmed

Huda, Moutaz & Emily

Nick, Apple, Ryan, Ashleigh & William

Arnela, Ryan & Sayed

Mahi, Ryan & Reem

Elie, Rodell, Yulia, Khalid & Vlada

Ryan & Damian

52 July 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Seasons Bahrain Bay hosted a Ghabga for Media Ghabga Four the media at its premises.

Kat, Liz, Richard, George & Anu

Khalil, Ameera, Richard & Barakat

Youlia & Tulin

Aswathy & Arsha

YO U R I N T E R C O N T I N E N TA L ÂŽ W E D D I N G S TA RT S H E R E .

Book your wedding during July, August and September, 2017 and enjoy 15% complimentary on your total Veronika

Jalal & Zainab

Ravnit

number of guests until end of March, 2018.

Plan your dream wedding for a memorable ceremony at one of our wedding halls and our experienced staff will make your fairy tale wedding come true.

To make a booking or for more information, please contact +973 17 208 313 or email convention.icbahrain@ihg.com Terms & Conditions Apply.

Binita, Niraj, Ravnit, Kabar & Muja

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 53

summeractivities

The Hottest Activities this Summer

BTM rounds up your essential guide to a plethora of exciting pastimes taking place this summer.

With the holidays right around the corner, there is no shortage of things to do on the island. So whether you have kids or are a big one at heart, the Kingdom has lots to offer.

If you want to try and beat the heat, there are many indoor activities to keep you entertained.

Laser tag is popular with people of all ages. It is painless because it uses no physical projectiles, so it’s safe, fun and a great way to spend the afternoon. Try heading to Ozone Entertainment Center in Sitra for a great day out.

Another way to avoid the searing sun is a trip to the cinema and there’s no shortage of options to choose from on the island. Mukta A2 Cinemas is the first and only multiplex in Juffair.

The company runs multiple movie-themed combos and promotional contests on social media allowing guests to interact and win prizes. The venue also shows sporting events live on the big screen.

Alternatively, try City Centre or Seef Mall – both in Seef and Muharraq – the latest summer blockbusters are slated for release imminently.

One of the Kingdom’s top entertainment venues is Fun Land. Located by the Al Fateh Corniche, this place does exactly what it says on the tin. It houses a full-sized ice rink that is a huge hit with expats and locals alike. If that’s not your speed, why not try heading to the 54 July 2017

facility’s bowling alley for a spot of 10-pin excitement. There’s also a small arcade, which means the whole family will be in for a treat.

Doroos Plus for Education in Saar offers a number of courses that use innovative strategies and novel methods to teach children various skills and morals. The establishment offers language, computer, developmental and robotic courses as well as a fun summer camp packed with activities.

For something a little different why not head to Challenge Chambers in Juffair? It is the venue of a real-life escape game where players are locked in a small room under mysterious circumstances. The objective is to solve the mystery by finding hidden objects, answering riddles and solving puzzles by connecting the missing links.

It wouldn’t be right to spend the holidays without a trip to the waterpark. A popular choice is Wahooo! in City Centre – it’s mostly indoors which means you don’t have to worry about sunburn.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, head to

the Lost Paradise Of Dilmun and sample the staggering selection of rides that will surely make a splash with old and young alike. More than 18 slides and attractions are blended seamlessly to create a desert oasis for guests to enjoy.

Alternatively, Coral Bay is a good destination for relaxation, adventure, entertainment and enjoyment. The marina boasts a beach and a fully equipped health club and offers a variety of water sports.

A trip to the arcade is guaranteed fun for the whole family. City Centre Bahrain is home to Magic Planet, a one-stop shop for all your gaming needs. The venue is packed with the latest releases and offers a number of exciting rides.

Dana Mall is home to a sizable entertainment theme park with a number of rides. The mall also houses an cinema complex. Further, Seef Mall Muharraq’s Magic Island is a place where children can enjoy rides and games in a stimulating ambience. It is packed with interactive machines and lots more. www.bahrainthismonth.com

summeractivities MUKTA A2 CINEMAS

A Truly Entertaining Experience

This multiplex offers guests a unique motion picture extravaganza, while placing exceptional customer service foremost.

If you are in and around Juffair and looking for conveniently accessible, family-friendly entertainment, Mukta A2 Cinemas is the place to head to, for an opportunity to treat your dear ones to a redefined movie-going experience.

Located in Juffair Mall, premium service and its unique selling points make Mukta the only leisure destination of its kind in this area. Ease of parking in the arcade’s spacious area is the icing on the cake.

This is the only multiplex on the island offering dynamic seating options for patrons to choose from. Each of the six movie halls is equipped with comfortable and luxurious alternatives — VIP recliners, sofas and rockers. The theatre’s cafeteria presents a range of delicious gourmet foods, popcorn, hotdogs, nachos and various beverages – all pocketfriendly, thanks to the amazing promotional deals available. Patrons are offered the exclusive ‘service on seat’ facility, which means they can enjoy films without having to fetch snacks themselves. This recreational destination can host marketing activities, birthday parties and special events, as well as corporate and group bookings.

Sport aficionados can watch key events live on the big screen for a real, stadium-like experience, with the state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos and Quantum Logic 3D surround sound system accompanied by a modern projection system.

Tickets can be purchased online and are also available at over 750 Sadad kiosk machines across the Kingdom.

Savour the joy of watching the latest blockbusters on the silver screen at Mukta A2 Cinemas, where movies come to life!

Visit www.muktaA2cinemas.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 55

bystander

ARG Ghabga Al Rashid Group held a Ghabga night at Downtown Rotana.

Kunal, Harmit, Sunil, Nirmal, Sachin, Kaizad & Rami

Mariam & Zainab

Samy, Ivan & Hanan

Kaizad & Behnaz

Terence, Parijat and Jayram

Fatima, Farah, Lana & Nusayba

Becky & Sateesh

Kunal & Kaizad

Maric, Monicha, Lyriza & Marits

1001 Arabian Nights

Al Areen Palace & Spa held the opening of its 1001 Arabian Nights-themed Al Qasr Tent.

Himanshu, Simon, Monicha, Das, Dev, Varsha & Aref

Noor & Samar

Gabrielle, Nabeela, Jude & Khalid

56 July 2017

Arpan, Simon & Sumon

Sesen

Shreya & Hala

www.bahrainthismonth.com

summeractivities DOROOS PLUS EDUCATIONAL CENTER

An Emerging Educationalist This progressive educational centre offers unique courses for its students.

Layla Ebrahim Albasri is a young and energetic educationalist from Bahrain. She holds a degree in English education and information technology. After graduating she travelled to Europe for advanced courses in higher education and attended leading universities in the UK, namely Cambridge, Oxford, the University of London and the University of Kent.

Upon her return to the Kingdom, she founded Doroos Plus for Education Center. The institute offers a number of courses that use innovative strategies and novel methods to teach children various skills as well as morality.

The establishment offers language, computer, developmental and robotic courses as well as a fun summer camp. Some other areas Doroos focuses on include maths, science and teaching of the Qur’an.

Layla not only offers unique methods for learning, but also has a passion for education and a love for her students. She is always keen to learn new things and regularly participates in workshops and training sessions to keep up-to-date with modern learning techniques and teaching strategies.

In addition, she is well known for her volunteer contributions to the teaching and training of children aged six to 18 years.

Doroos Plus Educational Center is located in Saar.

Cal 77 433-334 or 33 999-503 or visit @doroos_bh on Instagram.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Layla Ebrahim Albasri

July 2017 57

MOTORING

STYLISH SPORTING CHARACTER CHARLIE HOLDING This gorgeous model does more than meets the eye and proves you needn’t choose between looks and performance.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 60 SPECIAL EDITION MAKES AN IMPRESSION 64 MOTORING BITES

Mercedes AMG C63 S cabriolet

W

hen it comes to design, performance and functionality there are very few marques that can touch Mercedes-Benz. I mean, come on, when your slogan is “the best or nothing”, it’s pretty clear how high the company sets the bar. And discerning drivers expect nothing less from this German juggernaut.

Enter the Mercedes AMG C63 S cabriolet, an unabashed muscle car that has left many of its American competitors shaking in their chassis. This classy convertible really does have it all – looks, power and enough on-board technology to make a Star Trek geek weep! Some of the highlights of the model I drove included Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Head-Up Display, Active Parking Assist, 360-degree camera and even a tyre pressure monitoring system.

The luxurious interior is quintessential of the brand in every way. The high-quality materials, fine finishes and delicate craftsmanship each contribute to a stunning overall effect. Rich nappa leather and generous chrome accents simply scream class and hint at this model’s sporty undertones.

Getting older is inevitable and while my 58 July 2017

newly acquired grey hairs make me look more discerning (according to my girlfriend anyway) I have become set in my ways. For example, I’m not a fan of touchscreen surfaces; I’d choose a dial or switch any day of the week. So when it came time to work with the touchpad control in this model, I was a little apprehensive.

The touchpad enables control of the COMAND multimedia system: the navigation audio, video, Internet, and most other functions.

It works like a smartphone – swipe your finger across or pinch and you’re in business. It only took a little while to get used to it and pretty soon I was changing functions like a pro!

I’m somewhat of a purist when it comes to cars; I don’t care much for the bells and whistles, I’m all about torque and horsepower and this model has ample amounts of both.

Under the bonnet of this mean machine is a V8 bi-turbo that provides 510bhp and makes the 0-100kmph dash in just 4.2 seconds.

The AMG C63 S is the kind of car that’s at home on both the road and the racetrack.

Sadly, I didn’t have a chance to visit the Bahrain International Circuit but a nice open stretch of highway gave me a chance to put my

foot down. The torque and sheer power is nothing short of breathtaking and the engine note, as they say in Germany – das ist gut!

As with many sports cars, this model has a choice of driving modes, each sportier than the last. Change the setting and it feels like you’ve changed the whole car – from the handling to the suspension and steering rigidity, it becomes an entirely new animal.

Speaking of changing the car, it’s not quite a Transformer, but it does have a retractable roof.

Unfortunately, when I took this baby for a spin the weather was unbearably hot, and it was Ramadan so I opted to keep it closed for most of the drive.

Cornering in this cabriolet is smooth and confident, even at speed. On the track, traction control is optional, but on the road it’s essential and it didn’t disappoint as I took a particularly sharp turn on the way to Isa Town.

One of my favourite features in this model is the seatbelt, yes, that’s right. The seat-belt presenter brings your safety equipment closer to you for easy access so now there’s no excuse for not wearing it!

Call Al Haddad Motors on 17 785-454. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Introducing the new GLA. Traditional activities are exciting when your car is, too. The new GLA is a crossover that gives you enough space and sportiness for life around town, and with the performance

to make rougher terrain feel comfortable.

Grow up your way.

Take it for a test drive.

Drive

Al Haddad Motors, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 17785454, marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com, www.bahrain.mercedesbenzme.com

motoring EURO MOTORS

Special Edition Makes an Impression

This racy new model has a dynamic presence and, with only a limited number available, it is sure to turn heads.

When it comes to innovation and style few marques can compete with BMW. Not one to rest on its laurels, the company has revealed an M Performance version of its smallest coupé and it boasts a host of customisation options.

The new M240i M Performance Edition features many high-grade exterior components from the M Performance accessory programme, which have been harmonised with care and enhance the sporty appearance and dynamic appeal of the powerful coupé even further, its makers say.

Carbon fibre or black detail parts provide distinctive contrasts to the Alpine White paintwork. The BMW M240i M Performance Edition is powered by a 340bhp inline sixcylinder engine with M Performance TwinPower turbo technology.

The athletic look of the compact sports coupé is highlighted by the large 19-inch light alloy wheels. High-quality double-spoke forged wheels are finished in bicolour Orbit Grey and have a diamond polished visible side. At the front the special edition features aerodynamic parts consisting of air guides, splitter, and bumper front section, whose spoiler lip is 60 July 2017

finished in matt black.

Carbon fibre tailpipe trim with an embossed M logo underlines the motor racing character of this model. Carbon fibre outside mirror caps and the side sill attachments with foiled M Performance inscription round off the dynamic appearance of the BMW M240i M Performance Edition.

All M Performance components have been developed especially for the BMW M240i incorporating the full motor sports know-how of BMW M GmbH and are perfectly harmonised with each other. Together they optimise the aerodynamic flow pattern around the car thereby improving its handling and driving performance.

The powerful model can be ordered either with a six-speed manual gearbox or an eightspeed Steptronic sports transmission. In addition, BMW xDrive is optionally available for the high performance coupé. In this case the car always comes with automatic transmission.

The compact sports car boasts impressive performance figures. In conjunction with allwheel, drive it sprints from zero to 100kmph in just 4.4 seconds, the top speed being 250kmph for every variant.

Further, the BMW M240i M Performance Edition is limited to 750 units.

Euro Motors is the Kingdom’s BMW dealer.

Call 17 750-750. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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motoring JAC MOTORS

A Ray of Sunshine & Comfort This automaker has combined the spaciousness of a van with the comfort of a coach to create a truly distinct vehicle.

The JAC Motors Sunray is a new 2017 model year van/minibus that is taking the world by storm. Its makers say it is more practical and safer than a van, as spacious as a coach and as comfortable to drive as a sedan.

It comes in two variants – a large-capacity commercial van and a 15-seater minibus – both available in standard or luxury trim. The Sunray has a 3.6-metre wheelbase, which means it has huge amounts of interior space, so passengers have plenty of room to stretch out.

JAC claims to be China’s most export-focused commercial automaker with vehicles that are said to offer the latest emission-compliant engines, advanced transmissions and international components.

Under the bonnet is a 2.8-litre diesel engine that provides ample power for quick response and steady driving. In terms of safety, the

Sunray comes with anti-lock brakes and SRS airbags to ensure occupant safety. To make things even easier for the driver, the Sunray is equipped with reverse sensors to help when parking. Further, it boasts halogen headlights that help with visibility, even when the weather is bad.

The Sunray features, high-back recliner seats with hand rests, which makes it more comfortable than a minibus with flat bench seats. The vehicle has a high roof, which allows for comfortable entry and exit, and it is equipped with a range of safety features, making it an ideal choice for school or

passenger transport.

This impressive vehicle’s exterior was designed by JAC’s Research & Development facility in Turin, Italy, while its team in Tokyo, Japan, was responsible for styling the interior.

The vehicle is widely used and particularly popular as transport for hotels, cabin crew, schools and staff, and for commercial purposes. Prices start from BD7,500 on road with a three-year 100,000kms warranty.

The JAC Motors showroom is located at Segaya Plaza, Zinj.

Call 17 270-270.

Downtown Rotana Iftar Downtown Rotana hosted an Iftar for the media at its Al Maha Tent.

Khawla & Hind

Management and staff at the event

Rasha, Linda & Mariam

Sherine & Charmaine

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Mani & Anush

Ashwathy, Imran & Suad

Reem & Georgina

Jawahar & Zainab

Hassan & Hussain

Diona & Mani

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringnews&launches

Start Your Engines

Ford has secured 275 US patents and has 200 more pending – more than any other manufacturer when it comes to gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology.

EcoBoost engines use three key technologies controlled by unique Ford software that’s designed to optimise the engine for any driving situation.

The first technology is direct injection. By injecting precise amounts of fuel directly into the cylinder at high pressure, EcoBoost engines deliver optimum performance without wasting a drop.

The second is a turbocharger. Just as a shot of espresso perks up your energy level, the turbocharger gives the engine a boost of power when needed.

The third technology is variable camshaft timing. Like healthy lungs and circulation, it ensures your EcoBoost engine always has the right amount of air to avoid wasting fuel and to deliver peak performance.

Compared to engines of the past, the EcoBoost is contained in a light and compact structure. This means you don’t waste fuel carrying around more weight than you have to. Perfect for economical cruising.

Vehicle Delivered

Zayani Motors, the distributor of Mitsubishi in the Kingdom, delivered a Mitsubishi Fuso FJ 1823R equipped with the Italian PM15 crane to Trust Traders. This is the first delivery of an FJ1823R in Bahrain.

A special ceremony was organised to celebrate this feat, where Mohammed Zaki, general manager of Zayani Motors, presented the key of the vehicle to Ahmed Bahman, owner of Trust Traders.

“We are happy to set yet another milestone in Zayani Motors’ successful history. We are confident that this reliable and efficient vehicle will boost our partners Trust Traders’ success,” says Mr Zaki.

Dr Bahman explains: “Zayani Motors’ efficiency in delivering the vehicle proves their keenness to maintain a long-lasting business relationship, and we are happy for the successful wrap-up of our deal.”

Mitsubishi Fuso is a leader in Asia and the Middle East, with business in over 150 countries around the world. The vehicles developed and produced under the Fuso brand are of high quality, efficient, and are ideally matched to diverse conditions of operation.

A Sporty New Addition Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, the dealer for Infiniti in the Kingdom, unveiled the 2017 Q60 during a special launch event.

The Q60 is a premium sports coupe that combines a new design with exhilarating performance and dynamics, its makers say. The taut, muscular lines of the exterior underline its performance potential – reinforced by an advanced 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine.

Robert Beaty, general manager, Infiniti Bahrain, says: “The launch of the Q60 reaffirms the commitment of Infiniti to strengthen its product line-up in Bahrain and around the world. The Q60 is characterised by flowing sculptural lines and strong, muscular proportions. Its sinewy athleticism confidently projects a sense of motion and power, coupled with an effortless, almost weightless stance to offer a driving experience that is both exhilarating and rewarding.”

The high-performance V6 from the new and exclusive ‘VR’ powertrain family is born out of the brand’s extensive in-house experience in six-cylinder powertrain development. The new engine available with 400bhp in the Q60 Red Sport 400 – has been designed to offer increased power and torque while maintaining high levels of efficiency.

64 July 2017

A four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine, turbocharged to produce 208bhp, is also available. As standard, power is channelled through the Q60’s rear wheels for immediate dynamic responses. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sleek SUV Unveiled The latest addition to the Nissan family has a new look and a sturdier performance both onand off-road. The Pathfinder has enhanced its safety, technology and power and added modern features, making every drive comfortable and enjoyable.

“Nissan has always focused on producing top-quality vehicles that suit everyone’s taste.

The Pathfinder is the perfect family vehicle as the seven-seater is very spacious, accommodating both passengers and luggage comfortably. With segment-leading dynamics, such as controlled ride and handling, less vibration on turns and easier manoeuvring, the Pathfinder is the ideal vehicle to drive in any condition making every drive a smooth

one,” says Robert Beaty, GM of Nissan and Infiniti Bahrain. “It comes in three grade levels: S, SV and SL. The new engine has also improved the performance thanks to the revised 3.5-litre V6 engine that has increased the horsepower by seven per cent and torque by four per cent for an unrivalled performance in its segment.”

Externally, the Pathfinder has been equipped with Nissan’s signature elements for aerodynamic optimisation efforts including the new ‘V-Motion’ grille to enhance the cooling performance and striking boomerang-shaped headlights with LED daytime running lights.

Other new styling elements include a redesigned front bumper, fog lights, wing

mirrors with integrated indicators and new 18-inch and 20-inch aluminium-alloy wheel designs. The rear tail light cluster and rear bumper have also been refreshed. The SV and SL grades come with a motion-activated liftgate, which takes one swipe of the foot under the tailgate to open it automatically and stop it at any desired point.

New Collections Revealed

Euro Motors, the Jaguar Land Rover dealer in the Kingdom, will launch its premium lifestyle range of clothing and merchandise for 2017, including two collections inspired by iconic cars of the past.

Both have been carefully designed and selected with the same

attention to detail that goes into designing and developing the company’s range of vehicles.

The 2017 Jaguar and Land Rover collections feature a range of new products, including two-in-one waterproof jackets, new T-shirt styles and designs, high-quality leather phone and tablet cases, a new luggage set, a new chronograph watch and a significantly enhanced range of children’s products including sweatshirts, hoodies, caps, books, toys, rucksacks, pencil cases and lunch boxes.

Hannah Naji, brand director for Jaguar Land Rover MENA, says: “The Jaguar and Land Rover collections combine exceptional design and originality with outstanding quality. In addition to a stunning range of heritage-inspired products, we have also created new core and lifestyle ranges, which continue to be stylish and relevant, and will surely be popular amongst the families in Bahrain. By offering branded goods for visitors of all ages, our customers have the perfect opportunity to avail themselves of truly unique gifts. We look forward to servicing our customers to the best of our abilities and providing them with quality products that stay true to the brand’s DNA.”

At Your Service First Motors hosted a training programme for the Genesis Concierge Service for employees at the showroom in Sitra.

The training expanded on the principles of concierge service that apply to all cars in the line-up of the recently recreated luxury vehicle segment of Hyundai Motors, Genesis Motors.

Ahsan Chishty, the general manager of First Motors, says: “At First Motors, we believe that the most significant assets of a company are its employees and the true strength of any organisation lies in how its own resources are invested in. Therefore, for us to be hosting a renowned and knowledgeable individual, and for our workforce to be given the opportunity to learn the intricacies of the Genesis Concierge Service, exemplifies our drive to grow from within, which in turn highlights our strive to constantly evolve and excel in the provision of our services and products for our customers.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 65

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

Fidget Cube Peek 2.0 iPhone Privacy Screen Everyone who is a daily commuter, using a bus or maybe a train while you’re overseas, knows how important privacy is. The Peek Screen 2.0 solves that problem of iPhone screen privacy by only making the screen visible at the viewing angle of the person holding the phone. If you want to show a friend a video, just turn your phone horizontally and he or she will be able to see your screen.

Available at www.red5.co.uk

Micro Bottle Opener This PiCO Titanium Micro Bottle Opener is an essential tool. It’s exceptionally portable and doesn’t take up a ton of room on your key chain like a classic bottle opener. It’s exceptionally durable, given that it’s made purely out of titanium, and incredibly light too. The perfect portable summer accessory.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk

Do you find yourself twiddling your thumbs or getting easily distracted? Do you need that tactile feel to stay focused during a rough day? This Fidget Cube fits perfectly in your pocket to take on the go and will sit handsomely on your desk while taking little space.

With a different game on each side it offers you six ways to fidget and distract yourself.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk

Windproof Foldable Camping Stove A windproof foldable camping stove perfect for your backpacking adventure, your tailgate, or your campsite. The compact design ensures an easy gadget to take with you and its sturdy structure will ensure it comes with you for countless journeys. This camping stove is totally windproof and will ensure a consistent flame regardless of the elements.

Available at www. thegadgetflow.com

Samsung QLED TV Samsung Gulf Electronics has launched the much anticipated QLED TV, the first in the world to reproduce 100 per cent colour volume thanks to new and advanced Quantum Dot technology. The ‘Smart Hub’ interface has been extended to smartphones through Samsung’s new and improved ‘Smart View’ app, which now provides a comprehensive overview of all available content on the app’s home screen. Moreover, Samsung showcased its single, transparent ‘Invisible Connection’ cable, through which all of the peripheral devices can be gathered and connected to the TV. Available at leading retailers around the Kingdom.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

Alarm Clock Rug

Multi-Tool Belt Buckle

This alarm clock rug requires you to stand on it to turn it off in the morning. No more snoozing, as it will require three seconds of pressure to stop its alarm. If three seconds is too short you can set it up to 30 seconds of pressure. Plus one added bonus is the ability to add an MP3 to the rug to start your day with any tunes you’d like.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk

This wearable belt buckle multi-tool is the perfect gadget for the tinkerer, the tech, the handyman or anyone who appreciates convenience in a practical form. It’s equipped with a screw driver, blade, ruler, saw, scissors, bottle opener, grippers and more. It also clips conveniently onto any strap.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

UO Smart Beam Laser Projector You can enjoy your favourite movie or TV show at home with real 720p HD resolution with this projector. It’s the smallest laser projector that gives a bright projection up to 60 lumens. It can be connected wirelessly or with a wire, and contains its own speaker.

Available at www.red5.co.uk

Ding Bike Light This gadget provides a level of riding safety with its unique twobeam innovation. The light provides a commanding shield around you by offering innovative illumination patterns with its patented system of two separate dedicated light sources within the one gadget. The two independent beams let you be seen from all angles by other road users. It’s a neat and compact design weighing in at only 110 grams with on-board charging and with up to 400 lumens of light power.

Available at www.thegadgetflow.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 67

music

Roger Waters – Is This the Life We Really Want?

What’s the story?

Roger Waters may not have made an album of new material between 1992 and 2017, but he was very active during that quarter-century. He toured regularly, wrote an opera, reunited Pink Floyd for the 2005 charity concert Live 8, and revived The Wall several times, turning the self-absorbed rock opera into a political piece. Is This the Life We Really Want?, his fourth song cycle, picks up on this thread, functioning as barbed protest music for the age of Brexit and Trump.

Worth a listen?

Roger Waters’ obsessions are much the same as ever, but he seems to be even angrier at the state of the world. The targets may be obvious, but Waters skewers them with precision. At times his voice drips with contempt for the human race, such as with the title track’s final words: “Every time the curtain falls on some forgotten life, it is because we all stood by, silent and indifferent.”

In Waters’ eyes we are all complicit. Thankfully there is a touch of hope at the end – the hope that love can maybe change people. Musically, there are many echoes of Floyd, although you can hear the subtle influence of Godrich on the strings and voices of the title track and ‘Bird In A Gale’. In contrast to all those swooping strings and musical restraint, ‘Smell The Roses’ has a kind of gnarly funk groove and even a guitar solo.

All in all this is a great album, and despite its gloom and rage, there is something about it that makes you want to stand up and answer Waters’ question in the negative.

Verdict: A welcome return from an icon.

Shorts

Alt-J – Relaxer

All Time Low – Last Young Renegade

A heady and sometimes unpredictable piece of work that swaps between pastoral folk, classical crossover, protopunk, and progressive rock on the fly, the Mercury Prize-winning trio’s third album is never clear about its overall intentions. The lyrics remain elliptical, with frontman Joe Newman espousing a villainous narrative persona. Clocking in at just under 40 minutes, the album’s dizzying stylistic shifts and offbeat arrangements are rendered refreshingly palatable, and even when the band’s artistic hubris is drawn front and centre, there’s usually enough craftsmanship on hand to offset the air of importance.

Two years after the business-as-usual Future Hearts, hitherto pop-punk quartet All Time Low make a surprising shift on their seventh set, Last Young Renegade. Much like similar moves by contemporaries Fall Out Boy and Paramore, it’s a late-era switch that finds the band expanding its sound into pop-oriented territory where synths and dance beats roam. Influenced by David Bowie, Prince, and the sounds of the ‘80s, Last Young Renegade is All Time Low’s attempt at sonic maturation, which pays off with much satisfaction. This is a focused collection of intense emotional energy, but vocal effects, programmed beats, and atmospheric production take centre stage instead of raucous riffs and pounding drums. Fans of their classic sound may be left wanting, but enough of that punk attitude remains, preventing this album from being a total curve ball.

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Dan Auerbach – Waiting on a Song When Dan Auerbach released his debut solo album Keep It Hid in 2009, the Black Keys were on the verge of superstardom; so his solo album was a busman’s holiday, not the start of a career. Waiting on a Song, its 2017 sequel, arrives in the midst of an extended hiatus from the Black Keys, who took a breather after a run of blockbusters that coincided with Auerbach establishing himself as a producer of note. On this album, he keeps circling back to a bright, cheerful sound, accentuating it with elements of soul and classic Americana. www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games Review Game: Tekken 7 Rating:

What is it?

Tekken celebrates its 20th anniversary with the next evolution of the fighting franchise.

The seventh instalment returns to the gameplay roots with classic 1v1 bouts and a storyline centred on the eternal struggle for power amongst the members of the Mishima clan. With newcomer Kazumi Mishima joining the fight, the epic battle between father and son, and also husband and wife, comes to its fated conclusion in Tekken 7.

Verdict:

The king of fighting games regains its throne.

Gameplay

Two new mechanisms are introduced in the game, both of which combine to make this the most brutal, fluid and exciting fighting game in the current generation. The first, Rage Art, allows the player to execute attacks that deal roughly 30 per cent damage, depending on the character, once their health bar is critical, in exchange for inactivating the normal attack power increase. The second, Power Crush, lets the player continue their attacks even while being hit by the enemy, although they would still receive the damage dealt by the enemy’s attacks.

The game has 38 playable fighters each with their own unique move-

Injustice 2

The super-powered sequel to the hit fighting game, Injustice 2 features a massive roster of DC super-heroes and super-villains and allows players to build and power up the ultimate version of their favourite DC character. Injustice 2 continues the story introduced in Injustice: Gods Among Us as Batman and his allies work towards putting the pieces of society back together while struggling against those who want to restore Superman’s regime. In the midst of the chaos, a new threat appears that will put Earth’s existence at risk. www.bahrainthismonth.com

DiRT 4

sets and levels of difficulty to master. It has incredible depth and players will want to replay it plenty of times to unlock hidden moves from all the characters.

Graphics

Powered by Unreal Engine 4, Tekken 7 sets a new standard in graphics quality for the series, featuring highly detailed characters and dynamic environments. Another brilliant change is Mirror Mode, which is a new display system used in the game’s multiplayer, which allows players to choose which side of the screen to play on rather than be forced to be either left or right.

DiRT 4 takes the passion and authenticity of offroad racing, whilst also re-introducing whiteknuckle truck and buggy racing. Motorsport by its very nature is dangerous, and Dirt 4 is all about embracing that danger. It’s about the thrill, exhilaration and adrenaline that is absolutely vital to off-road racing. Added to DiRT 4 is a gamechanging system called Your Stage; an innovative rally route creation tool that allows you to produce an almost-infinite number of unique stages at the press of a button. You choose your location and set the route parameters, then Your Stage does the hard work to create a unique rally stage that you can race and share with friends.

Friday the 13th

Jason is out to get you in Friday the 13th, a terrifying game based on the slasher film franchise. Stalk camp counsellors across Crystal Lake as Jason Voorhees, or assume the role of a helpless camper and attempt to survive the night.

The multiplayer component to the game pits one player as Jason against up to seven people as counsellors. While Jason can be an immensely daunting, seemingly unstoppable force, he is able to be brought down with an ‘epic’ win condition.

It’ll be difficult, require some teamwork, and perhaps a bit of ingenuity, but whatever the result, you’ll be hooked and keep coming back for more punishment.

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websites

Ramee Grand Hotel Ghabga

VERDICT: An intuitive way of grasping music history.

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa held hosted a Ramadan Ghabga for the media at its premises.

Khalil, Rocco & Kumar

Site: www.radiooooo.com Rating: What is it?

Radiooooo is a new site with a terrific concept: click on a year, in decade increments from 1900 to present day, and click on a country anywhere in the world, and the site serves you a popular song from that particular time and place.

Chakunni, Yullia, Kumar & Jijesh

The Good

The range of music samples is fascinating and far-reaching. So if you click on 1920 and United States, you might get a 17-piece big band; if you click on 1960 and Brazil you might get bossa nova. If you click on ‘now’ and Canada, you might get Arcade Fire.

Sumaya, Mariyama & Madiha

Prem & Nirmada

The Bad

Sadly, the artist who you are landed with is entirely random, and there’s no way of flicking between them until they come on the loop. So, using the example above of ‘now’ and Canada, you may well end up with Justin Bieber. It’s also terribly addictive, so visiting this site is a bad idea if you have a lot of work to finish on a given day.

Yamaha Piano Vibes Ambassador Stores launched the new Yamaha Clavinova digital piano series featuring a live concert

by Peter Baartmans at City Centre Bahrain.

www.madeon.fr

Peter Baartmans, Mina & Daeseong Han

Aileen, Fatima & Grace

Abhishek & Joshua

This is an amazingly beautiful and addictive music-producing tool from Madeon, the young electronic music producer from France.

Madeon’s Adventure Machine is a website that enables you to create full and complete electronic beat tracks with just a few simple clicks. Afterwards, you can share your creations with your friends.

www.littlealchemy.com Truly addictive, Little Alchemy challenges you to create 550 elements from just the basics: water, earth, air and fire. Basically, you combine elements to make new ones (so for example, water + water = sea). It doesn’t take long to get sucked in.

Latish, Edmond, Yousif, Yousif & Ajay

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

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

What is it?

Money is all about visual progress. Start off by creating a budget using the detailed categories. Then record your transactions as they happen, whether they’re income or expenses. Money allows you to track every account, from credit cards to savings, and analyse how well you’re doing in order to find ways to save.

The Good:

The app includes detailed graphs, data syncing via iCloud, search, recurring and automatic bills, password protection, and even a built-in calculator.

Every feature you could wish for on a moneymanaging app is packed in.

The Bad:

Money Rating: Verdict: A great app for managing your budget.

The design could definitely do with some work.

Although the list of features is extensive, many are hidden behind obtrusive menus and lists. Navigating around the app takes some getting used to, and what’s worse is that there is no tutorial or help menu to get your feet off the ground. Unfortunately, this stops the app from being truly great.

App: Dreambase

App: Tribeca Shortlist

Dreambase is perfect for those who want to keep a journal of their dreams. When recording a dream, you’re able to create tags and provide a detailed description. You’re also able to indicate whether it was lucid or not. Dreambase allows you to filter and search your dreams by text, tags, or lucid status, and also lock them behind a passcode so people don’t pry.

Tribeca Shortlist takes the guesswork out of picking your next film to watch. It takes a more personal approach to film discovery by highlighting the thoughts and opinions of filmmakers, insiders, and leading voices in entertainment. The exclusive ‘Why Watch It?’ videos enhance discovery and provide insight into what makes each film great. With a subscription, you’re able to stream instantly on your iDevice, Apple TV or the Web, and you can even download films for offline playback.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

movies

Julieanne

VERDICT: A powerful film worthy of the icon’s name.

Film: Wonder Woman Rating:

Graduation Ceremony

The British School of Bahrain held its graduation ceremony at the The Diplomat Radisson BLU Hotel, Residence & Spa. Dominique, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre & Panos Doreen

Directed by: Patty Jenkins Starring: Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Robin Wright

The Plot:

Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, raised on a sheltered island paradise and trained to be an unconquerable warrior. When a pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers and her true destiny.

Nasser Al Arrayedh & Maryam

Alex, Doris & Panos

Dana & Naeema

Mathew

Mohammd Dadabhai

Sara & Alya

Tareq & Deema

Worth Watching?

Wonder Woman is easily the best film in the DC Comics Extended Universe (DCEU). After all the hype, and subsequent let-down, of Batman v Superman and Suicide Squad, it’s a breath of fresh air with some thrilling scenes.

Gadot’s Diana is stunningly beautiful and filled with a quiet, unwavering strength. Many were looking to her to be a feminist icon in a maledominated genre, and they’ll be delighted with that they find here.

Meanwhile, Pine’s cynical, world-weary Steve Trevor serves partly as the comedic foil to Diana’s seriousness, and partly as a voice of reason.

Despite a third act that contains too much exposition and not enough epic action, likeable characters and great performances make for a welcome break from the DCEU tradition of mediocrity.

Whether or not you’re a fan of the genre, or even if you’ve never seen an X-Men movie before. Truly outstanding.

Transformers: The Last Knight

In the absence of Optimus Prime, a war has commenced between the human race and the Transformers. To save their world, Cade Yeager forms an alliance with Bumblebee, an English lord named Sir Edmund Burton, and an Oxford professor named Viviane Wembly to learn the secrets of why the Transformers keep coming back to Earth.

Bhavika, Pallavi & Prisha

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The Mummy

Though safely entombed in a crypt deep beneath the unforgiving desert, an ancient princess, whose destiny was unjustly taken from her, is awakened in the current day bringing with her malevolence grown over millennia, and terrors that defy human comprehension.

Hiba, Iraj & Asna

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Palestine Ghabga

HE Taha Abdul Qader, Palestinian Ambassador, hosted a private Ghabga at Coral Bay. Rihab, HE Taha Abdel Qader & Amani

Yasser

Mohamed, HE Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al-Sabah, Akram Miknas & HE Taha Abdel Qader

HE Nor Huda, Rihab & Wani

Group hosted its company Iftar Azadea Iftar Azadea at the Elite Resort and Spa.

HE Alok Kumar Sinha & Jamal Fakhroo

Samira, Wessam, Hani & Jamal

Ahmed & Hazel

Jay & Patrick

Hawra & Julie

Prabha & Dinesh

Ivanova held an art exhibition at the Bahrain Art Exhibition Katya Financial Harbour.

Terrence, Maria, Katya & Angus

Salwa Almoayyed & Fulya

Robert

Ratnakumar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Edward & Lindsay

Haroon

Colin

July 2017 73

destinationjuffair

American Alley

One-Stop Destination Whether recreation or business, this suburban locality has everything you need with new options opening all the time.

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With a vivacious urban culture and cosmopolitan vibe, Juffair is brimming with hip restaurants, a handful of history, shopping and chic nightlife spots.

One of Bahrain’s most iconic landmarks, the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, is located in the area. Being the largest of its kind, it is best known for its intricate Islamic architecture and serves as a centre for religious studies. For non-Muslims the mosque is open for visits daily, except Fridays, with the option to take a guided tour and learn about the history of the building and the religion.

In recent years, Juffair’s development has expanded to provide every possible amenity, making it a top choice to stay, work and play. It is a prime real estate location, home to towering skyscrapers, hotels, residential complexes, business centres and shopping malls. Being one of the few freehold zones in the Kingdom, anyone can own property here, ranging from flats to lavish villas.

A myriad of hotels and serviced apartments can be found at every corner, giving a great selection for every taste and budget.

Facing the main road is Al Safir Hotel and Tower, with 196 accommodations including an imperial suite with a private swimming pool and stunning views of the city. A block away is the Atiram Premier Hotel, which has a host of dining and entertainment options along with excellent banquet and conference facilities. The weekend brunch at Wembley is very popular and often a full-house affair. Ramee Rose, a fairly new addition to the scene, has gained status for great deals on corporate and leisure stays. The K Hotel is well known for its lively Friday brunch at Kolors as well as excellent service and premium

Penne Alla Norma Cucina Italiana

rooms. Across the road from it is the Ramee International Hotel. The Marriott Executive Apartments boasts stunning sea views from its one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. The Arman Hotel is part of a larger complex attached to Juffair Mall, providing guests with the ultimate retail therapy when they choose to stay there.

The ‘party capital’ also has a multitude of nightclubs to keep you dancing till the wee hours including the latest addition, Coda Jazz Lounge, which offers live music and great food. Other notable venues include Cavallo at Atiram Premier Hotel, Klub 360 at Elite Crystal, Club XS at Ramee Rose, Wrangler at the Juffair Grand Hotel and Sky Lounge at the Diva Hotel.

Many of them host promotions throughout the week to entice clubbers to keep coming back for more.

Since its opening last year, the Juffair Mall has become a popular destination for shoppers. It encompasses Lulu Hypermarket for your round of groceries, electronics and garments; a food court; shopping outlets such as Splash and Lifestyle,;Fitness www.bahrainthismonth.com

Juffair Mall

Romano’s Grilled Salmon

First, and Mukta A2 Cinemas. Mukta gives moviegoers an unparalleled film experience with revolutionary sound technology, modern projection systems and comfortable seating.

The glass-panelled Al Raya Mall is a bustling venue with local grocer Alosra, restaurants including Mumbai Spices and Bluefield Burger and premium chocolaterie Troufa. If you crave an out-of-the-box experience, on the first floor sits Challenge Chambers, a real-life escape game where players are locked in a small room under mysterious circumstances and have to get out within an hour using a series of clues.

The district’s oldest shopping mall, Al Murjan Centre, harbours Al Jazeera supermarket and popular eatery TGIF, a favourite place for friends and family to congregate while enjoying hearty eats. Krispy Kreme and shops selling antiques and carpets can also be found here.

However, the most fashionable spot within the area is the ‘American Alley’, dubbed so because of its popularity with and proximity to the US Naval base.

This animated area is merely a long lane flanked by restaurants and culinary offerings serving a myriad of cuisines. Here, you can find fast food joints like McDonald’s and Burger King along with casual and fine-dining eateries like Romano’s Macaroni Grill, serving traditional Italian trattoria-style food. Lanterns in Juffair serves Mughal Indian and Chinese fare, while Nu Asia dishes up four different Far East and South Asian cuisines. For Japanese, try Sumo Sushi and Bento, Kabuki or Hakisushi. Isfahani and Al Abraaj serve authentic Middle Eastern preparations, and there are many other cuisines on offer throughout the street. Nestled at the end of American Alley is Megamart, a one-stop for all your daily essentials.

Nearby is Cucina Italiana at Al Safir, a fine dining Italian restaurant, which has an enormous menu comprising pasta, risotto, pizza and meat dishes. Its neighbour, Bennigan’s, serves up colossal portions of American favourites like burgers, onion rings and chicken wings.

Planning to straighten out your fitness routine and shed some pounds? Head to Juffair Fitness Centre or Reps and get in shape under the guidance of expert www.bahrainthismonth.com

trainers. However, if you are struggling to eat healthy, enroll with Health Watchers. The Juffair-based delivery company provides customised meals that are low in calories, fat and sodium. For a head-to-toe beauty fix, head to Joz Salon and Spa or Sherry Spa to pamper yourself. Whether it is a manicure, pedicure, haircut or facial.

The Bahrain Specialist Hospital provides worldclass health facilities and qualified doctors to take care of any maladies or emergencies. Bayoga and Kotakkal Ayurvedic Centre provide alternative treatments for various ailments.

Juffair has schools such as The Bahrain School, Modern Knowledge School as well as New Generation International School. And, as well as a football team and extensive fitness facilities, motoring enthusiasts can get their speed thrills at Al Najma Club’s karting track.

Lanterns

July 2017 75

destinationjuffair

JOZ SALON & SPA

Say Goodbye to Unsightly Fat

Bid farewell to unattractive cellulite and say hello to smooth, taut skin with a revolutionary new treatment offered at this popular salon.

Although cellulite isn’t harmful, it is a cause of concern for many, aesthetically. It tends to develop more easily in women than in men, and occurs in 90 per cent of females after puberty. It’s apparent mainly in the thigh, hip and buttock regions and is characterised by an ‘orange peel’ or ‘rippled’ appearance. It’s a misconception that only overweight people have this issue – thin people can suffer from it too.

There are various treatments that battle the condition, some more effective than others.

Joz Salon & Spa helps you understand what you’re dealing with and answers your queries on the treatment programme that is offered.

impaired circulation; lack of exercise and water consumption; medication; intake of caffeine; genetics and extreme weight loss.

What is cellulite?

The term was coined in 1973 to describe a condition of the skin and subcutaneous tissue characterised by microcirculation impairment, fluid retention, enlarged fat cells and alteration of connective tissue. It develops in the most superficial layer of fat that sits beneath the skin, known as the subcutaneous fat layer. This strata is structurally unique from the others because its fat lobes are organised into chambers by surrounding strands of vertical connective tissue.

How many treatments are needed?

Depending on your needs, age and lifestyle, a total of eight to 12 procedures are recommended once or twice a week, with follow-ups every six to eight weeks.

What causes cellulite?

Among the many reasons it can develop are: hormonal changes; diet (mainly saturated fat); 76 July 2017

What is Dermosonic?

It is a strong suction massage programme for exceptional cellulite reduction that decreases localised fat and facilitates body contouring and skin smoothing.

What results can be expected after Dermosonic?

Enhanced circulation is evident from the first session, along with a significant improvement in the quality and appearance of the treated area.

How do the treatments feel?

With no pinching, rolling or bruising of the skin, the procedures are not only pain free but they also feel good.

Dermosonic is available at Joz Salon & Spa’s Juffair and Amwaj branches.

Call 17 369-133, 16 031-120 or 17 756-449. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Khalid & Mustafa

Euro Motors Gurgaon

Maya & Rifat

Hera & Lubna

Masarati Ghabga

Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover hosted a festive event honouring local charity organisations.

Maserati hosted a Ghabga at The RitzCarlton, Bahrain.

x Stephen, Hannane & Mishal

Fadi Al Shaikh & Rashid Al Zayani Nahada & Suhan

Ali, Maryam, Aayat & Sarah

Baidaa

Rifat, Nader & Faraj Alqassim

Majid

www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 77

destinationjuffair BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Age Matters Dr Mohamad Al Halabi obstetrics, gynecology and IVF consultant explains declining fertility with age.

Age is the most important factor affecting fertility and a woman’s chances of having a child.

Ovaries have a life span and women are born with their lifetime’s supply of eggs – about one million. By puberty that number will have dropped to around 300,000. Of the follicles remaining at puberty, approximately 400 will be ovulated during the reproductive years.

A woman’s most fertile years are in her 20s. Fertility gradually begins to drop in the late 20s or early 30s and falls more rapidly after the age of 35.

Each month that she tries, a healthy, fertile 30-year-old woman has a 20-per-cent chance of getting pregnant. By age 40, this drops to less than five per cent per cycle.

In addition fertility can decrease due to factors including early menstruation, lifestyle, pollution and exposure to environmental toxins.

The age-related decline in female fertility happens because both the quality and the quantity of eggs gradually decline. There is also a greater chance of chromosomal abnormalities and spontaneous abortion. The success rate of infertility treatment, including IVF, is also low for the same reason.

As age increases, the risks of other disorders that may adversely affect

fertility, such as fibroids, tubal disease, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis and others, also increases.

A couple who fail to conceive after one year of regular unprotected intercourse are said to be infertile. If the woman is over 35, this drops to six months.

Women are advised to consider pregnancy in Dr Mohamad Al Halabi their 20s to prevent difficulties in conception later. For couples who decide to delay having a family, it’s prudent to undergo fertility screening, which involves semen analysis of the male partner and hormonal tests and ultrasound to check the ovarian reserve of the female partner.

For further information email mohamad.halabi@bsh.com.bh.

Call 17 812-000.

Ramadan Iftar The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain hosted guests at its “Al Khayma” Ramadan tent for Iftar.

Jaques & Laurel

Ghizlane, Hermes, Mathew, Soufiane, Serena, Sfi & Mike

Christian Florence & Rashid

Sukaina, Nawa & Fatima

78 July 2017

Nasser & Samira

Thomas

Sam & Ghizlane

Pie, Yousif & Soufiane

Florence & Ghizlane

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAHRAIN FAMILY LEISURE COMPANY

A Taste of Italy This bistro brings class and style to casual dining, with an unshakeable passion for Italian lifestyle from the cuisine right to the décor.

Cucina Italiana is a homegrown restaurant concept by Bahrain Family Leisure Company. It takes great pride in delivering the highest-quality dishes prepared with only the freshest and finest handpicked ingredients, maintaining traditional Italian cooking techniques. All dishes are made from fresh vegetables, succulent meat, hand-tossed dough and superiorquality sauces, all served with genuine Italian passion – even the pasta is made from scratch.

Due to popular demand, Cucina’s signature sauces will be sold in small jars, so there’s no need to worry about being an expert chef the next time you invite your friends for dinner. Cucina Italiana is also one of the very few places on the island that serves wood-fired thin crust pizzas with authentic Italian toppings. Further, multi-grain versions are now available.

In addition to its authentic menu, Cucina keeps things lively with cooking classes and is also popularly known for it’s annual Master Chef competition, which crowned its season four winner in January 2017.

Cucina opens at lunchtime, which makes it an ideal spot for business meetings. Lunch and after hours promotions are available on weekdays and special seafood main courses are available on Thursdays and Fridays. You can pick from a selection of seafood choices – fresh from

the waves – and the chef will cook it to your preference. During the weekend there is live saxophone music.

In the evenings, this cosy Italian eatery boasts an alluring ambience.

With dim lights and Italian music gently playing in the background it’s the perfect place to bring your special someone for a romantic date. In fact, you can even request a ‘romantic table set up with candles’ when you make your reservation. And, if you want to go the extra mile, you can even reserve a private section of the restaurant.

The beginning of the year saw Cucina mark an important milestone – its sixth anniversary – which was celebrated with loyal customers from Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Visit Cucina Italiana located in Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, and discover authentic Italian food and ambience without leaving Bahrain.

Call 17 001-317.

George, HE Alok Kumar Sinha & Paul

Dhruv & Mitesh

and Anne hosted a social Social Lunch George lunch at Lantern’s, Adliya.

Wani, Mamta, Omrutai & Mandi

Ratna

Naz

Bharti, Mandi & Omrutai

Potter hosted a fun get-together Boat Cruise Dick with close friends aboard the Assayel.

Jo, Gayle, Shirley, Debbie, Daisy & Jo

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jackie, Dick Potter & Helmut

Robert, Anne & Rupert

July 2017 79

destinationjuffair ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

Talk of the Town Oozing a British pub atmosphere, this chic sports bar in a four-star property in Juffair offers gastronomic adventures every weekend.

Wembley, at the Atiram Premier Hotel, has gained a reputation for live sporting action paired with an upbeat traditional pub vibe.

The venue is back to hosting the Friday brunch, only bigger and better, featuring a new menu, band and games to add to the fun.

For just BD21, you can indulge in an array of international cuisine including live cooking stations, carvery, salads, pasta, seafood grills, desserts and much more, along with beverages.

Entertainment for the event will be provided by DJ Mike ‘Shady’ Shade playing all the classic party anthems. You can also sing your heart out at a karaoke station.

Whether your favourite sport is rugby, football, cricket or something quirky, you can guarantee the best viewing experience at Wembley, which boasts three large projector screens and multiple flat-screen TVs to capture the ambience as if you were actually there.

Several promotions run throughout the week. Chow down on delectable burgers, spicy Buffalo wings and more while enjoying the charged sporting atmosphere. Wembley is open from noon to 2am daily.

Atiram Premier Hotel is a smart choice for travellers, offering 105 luxurious accommodations with various food and beverage outlets. With its convenient location, the hotel has easy access to the city’s must-see destinations and provides guests unparalleled facilities and services.

Call 33 640-009.

Sabihuddin Khan Iftar

Sabihuddin Khan hosted a Ramadan Iftar at Lasaini restaurant.

Sami, Mohammed, Sabihuddin Khan, Abdulla, Nabeel & Abdulla

Raja, Mo & Tayyaba

Fawad

80 July 2017

Rizwan, Akhlaq, Naseem & Sabihuddin Khan

Faisal, Mudssir, Sameer, Ozeir, Sabihuddin Khan, Junaid & Asim

Ozeir, Farhan, Abdulla, Sabihuddin Khan, Naseem

Sabihuddin Khan, Wajiha Khan & Kishwar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING

FANTASTICALLY FRENCH This popular eatery proves time and again why old is still gold.

Behnaz Sanjana samples the new entrants on its menu and cannot help but concur.

P

aul Restaurant and Bakery first fired up its oven in northern France’s Croix back in 1889, I learn from the menu.

The original bakery’s passion and commitment to create the best breads in town has trickled down over five generations of this family-run enterprise. This fervour has not only crossed French borders to take root in 30 countries across the globe, but can also be seen in its neo-classical cuisine and scrumptious patisserie.

Paul’s understated ‘art de vivre’ vibe is unmissable as one passes the open eatery at Seef Mall and it lures clientele in with comforting whiffs of oven-fresh dough – something that undoubtedly keeps patrons like me returning for more.

As there are interesting debutantes on the freshened menu, I gladly left the selection to Joe, the hospitable restaurant manager. He suggested the Salade Fraicheur et Avocat to start with. The dish made its entrance with a flourish – looking all crisp and inviting. The plate was generously heaped with emerald, lime, forest and bottle greens – punctuated with the crispy gold of toasted almond flakes, crunchy red of sliced baby radish and acidic deep maroon of sundried tomatoes. The wedge www.bahrainthismonth.com

of cheese-crusted bread and parmesan dressing lent a rich, sinful element to the wholesome salad.

As we awaited the main course, Joe informed us that the restaurant also offers home deliveries all over the island from 10am-10pm, and is happy to cater for off-site events and celebrations (including weddings), no matter how large or small. A wide range of mini-bites, hot and cold canapés, entrées, sweets and customised cakes can be provided to the same standard of quality served at the restaurant.

Up came the main course – Pavé de Saumon Rôti, for me. Pink pan-roasted salmon sat pretty on a cushion of mashed potato. It had a reverent audience of perfectly grilled baby artichokes, fresh fennel, capers, black olives and cherry tomatoes. But it was the herby and sharp tasting tarragon hollandaise sauce that tied all the contributing flavours together, making the plate an adventurous journey for the taste buds.

My friend had the pleasure of digging into Suprême de Poulet Farci aux Épinards et Fromage Emmental. Tender chicken breast enveloped spinach and oozy Emmental to make a delicious packet of tastes, with a side of vibrant julienned vegetables. A robust, aromatic pepper sauce heightened all the

ALSO THIS MONTH: 86 A TERRIFIC TREAT 90 TABLE HOPPING

flavours, of which my companion was promptly served an extra bowl on request. I suppose they’re used to such appeals for more of the brown goodness.

We soldiered on, attempting to polish off our plates in secret anticipation of peaking into the dessert counter that stood gloriously packed with tantalising confections. Without much ado we chose our standard favourite – the macaroons that Paul Restaurant and Bakery is renowned for. For something new, we picked the raspberry tart and the chocolate millefeuille.

The macaroons were their usual best – a sticky sweet centre sandwiched between expertly crafted meringue. The raspberry tart was a three-tiered creation – an almond cream base, layered with rich, piped custard, topped with fresh raspberries bearing a fine frost of powdered sugar. The millefeuille was a delicate assembly of melt-in-the-mouth puff pastry, airy chocolate crème and a roof of glazed chocolate icing – decadence done just right.

Heads still abuzz with the luxurious flavours we’d encountered and souls completely content, we tried our best to walk out of Paul with an air of French chic, but I suppose we just managed to stagger out with toothy, satiated smiles instead.

July 2017 83

dining GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

A Scintillating Selection This landmark hotel has a number of exciting events and special promotions in store for visitors.

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa is renowned for its sensational selection of food and beverage outlets. Guests are truly spoiled for choice with a range of new promotions and entertainment.

Lebanese restaurant Zahle has a new front act – a combined belly dancing performance featuring Daria and Yuliia, accompanied by female singer Nay Sleiman, and, one man show, Walid Itani.

Keeping with the entertainment theme, Typhoon Lounge’s band – QBA Inside – an all-girl Cuban band will be providing world-class musicianship to keep you rocking at this stunning venue. Alternatively, spice up your evenings with traditional Latin flavour and the best Margarita’s in town combined with excellent live music by Caribbean Pure Duo at Margarita Mexicana Restaurant.

Seafood fans are in for a treat on July 16. The sensational Sato Restaurant has a 50 per cent off promotion on a special sushi and maki menu.

Sherlock Holmes Bar & Restaurant has its Big

Burger Challenge launching on July 10. Let’s see if you are game enough to take on the largest burger on offer.

The popular art of cooking classes will begin on July 8 and take place every Saturday. Classes begin with China Garden’s chef Ding, featuring exotic Chinese delicacies. There will be an exclusive class on the 29th. The family cooking experience provides the opportunity to foster your little chef’s culinary interests and have the chance to learn from the hotel’s executive pastry chef, Daniel Lajoux.

In addition, the hotel is offering its Hot Deal until August 30. Patrons will receive a voucher that grants them 20 per cent off the bill in any outlet during their next visit.

Together with its world-class features and amenities that include 361 luxurious rooms and suites, 16 fine-dining restaurants, lounges and bars as well as a selection of recreational and relaxation facilities, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa is certainly the place to be.

Belly dancers Daria & Yuliia

Walid Itani

Nay Sleiman

Call 17 713-000.

Joe Massoud

Motorcity Ghabga Motorcity hosted its Ghabga at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

Management and staff of Motorcity

Hani, Waleed Kanoo, Mirela & Gopal

Shaheen, Ahmed & Charbel

84 July 2017

Keichii Okubo & Bijan

Madush & Sujith

Nimmy, Naveen & Nathan

Grant, Stefan & Richard

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining MAKI

Outstanding Accomplishment This prominent restaurant owner has bagged a prestigious title for providing exceptional service at his eateries.

Founder of Maki, Mohamad Oliver Zeitoun, won the ‘Middle East Restaurateur of the Year 2017’ award at a ceremony held by Caterer Middle East in Dubai. The glitzy event was graced by top professionals from the food and beverage industry from across the region.

After being shortlisted for the accolade five times in recent years, Zeitoun was chosen for the title from a group of six selected competitors.

“I am honoured, and I consider all the finalists as equal deserving winners as they have worked really hard to get here,” said Mohamad.

“I take tremendous pride in what I do, and in my team, who I consider to be my family.”

Mohamad opened his first small contemporary Japanese restaurant (with his brother Amer) – a hole-in-the-wall location – in Kuwait, seating only 35 diners at the time.

Maki soon became the talk of the town with

fans queuing outside its doors to get a taste of its delectable fare. The team then expanded throughout Kuwait, where they now have five restaurants, and one in Bahrain.

The esteemed award comes after 15 years of toil and dedicated efforts put in by him and his team.

Incredible achievements of the Maki team include the introduction of new and neverheard-of ingredients to Japanese cuisine, honouring loyal guests by naming dishes after them, and iconic creations such as Issa Maki, Fusion Temaki and Filo Shrimp Tempura.

“I have now embarked on a new adventure,

Mohamad Oliver Zeitoun

opening our first outpost in London. I am very proud of having been listed in the Michelin Guide, and winning a prestigious local award in virtually no time,” says Mohamad.

The Maki team has plans to continue expanding in Bahrain as well as other countries.

Call 17 522-733.

*Winners logo courtesy of ITP Media Group

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 85

dining

BUTCHER SHOP & GRILL

A Terrific Treat This meat lover’s paradise has some delightful desserts to end a fantastic meal on a sweet note.

The Butcher Shop & Grill at City Centre Bahrain comes from a top-end South African steakhouse that was established in Johannesburg in 1996.

For over two decades the name has reigned supreme as the king of all carnivore hangouts.

The eatery’s relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect venue to sink your teeth into some succulent eats after a fun day at the mall. The restaurant is best known for its extensive variety of meats and prime cuts, as well as its value for money.

The grill house is committed to delivering the best quality meat, and, spreading awareness amongst clientele on how to best enjoy it is at the heart of the brand’s philosophy. The outlet has a number of options for poultry, seafood and vegetarian fare as well.

A new dessert menu has been recently launched and is full of lip-smacking goodies to round up a hearty meal. The list may not seem exhaustive, but it has all the key elements that will make you feel on cloud nine. Classics like the Butcher chocolate fondant, cheesecake, vanilla crème brûlée and date pudding are failsafe crowd-pleasers. If you’re feeling more experimental, then the matcha green tea is for you. This is the eatery’s take on a light and healthy sweet course. It’s a verdant treat is served with wild berry coulis, edible flowers and a cold smoke to make it look as exotic as it tastes.

86 July 2017

For something fruitier, the mango mousse topped with sweet quinoa is apt. The Pavlova is a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. This beautifully presented dish is an assortment of exotic fruit, meringue and light home-made cream.

The Butcher Shop & Grill is more than a restaurant. Besides serving an array of excellent meat dishes, it also houses a retail butchery,where customers can purchase premium quality cuts of their choice.

Call 17 172-323. www.bahrainthismonth.com

LANTERNS

A Delicious New Addition This popular restaurant’s newest branch in Amwaj features well-loved Indian gastronomy with an extensive assortment of international fare.

Lanterns has opened a standalone gourmet lounge at Amwaj Islands, consisting of a dining room and bar fitted with sleek, modern fixtures.

The menu showcases Indian specialities as well as burgers, pasta, pizza and light bites.

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast, and choose from eggs made to your liking, paired with basil pesto, avocado or beef bacon.

Alternatively, delight your sweet tooth with banana pecan French toast or coconut porridge.

Health-conscious individuals can opt for the super food salad with quinoa and sunflower seeds, the classic Caesar or the burrata and pesto salad.

Main courses include the famed Wagyu burger, grilled hammour, piripiri chicken, cottage pie and curried tiger prawns, to name a few.

For a quick snack, nibble on onion bhaji, edamame with rock salt, salmon croquettes, calamari, bruschetta or fish fingers.

A special tandoori section with sumptuous meat, poultry, seafood and vegetarian options can be sampled. A plethora of tantalising curries like the chicken tikka masala, paneer kadhai and dal makhani can be had along with aromatic, spicy biryanis of all kinds.

The famous Friday brunch will be introduced later this year. An outdoor garden lounge is set to open soon for diners to enjoy the good weather.

Call 77 700-55.

NOW

N E P OAMWAJ @

A DINING EXPERIENCE THAT TRULY IMPRESSES. A PLACE TO BE, RELAX AND ENJOY.

Gourmet Lounge

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 87

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FROM A SINGLE BRICK IN 1991...

WE HAVE GROWN INTO A HOUSE

Tel: (+973) 17 813 777 Fax: (+973) 17 813 700 | P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Bahrain | Address: Villa 1533 | Road 2426 | Block 324 | Bahrain

bystander

Graduation Party

Roshini Raja Rahamathullah, a student of the British School of Bahrain since kindergarden, celebrated her graduation party at the Sheraton Hotel. It was graced by HRH Sheikha Thaijbha bint Salman Al Khalifa and Indian Ambassador HE Alok Kumar Sinha with wife Mamta. Roshini is heading towards Arizona State University in the US to study business data analytics.

Raja, Shanthini, Roshini & Roshan

Cake-cutting with family & friends

Shanthini, Mamta, Roshini, Roshan & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

Manal, Roya, Khulood, Ahlam & Zahra

SwissBelhotel Iftar The SwissBelhotel held a pre-ramadan Iftar dinner at its premises.

Dalia, Atta & Kay

Jonathan & Herve

Raeda & guest

Bassim and colleagues

www.bahrainthismonth.com

July 2017 89

tablehopping

SURF AND TURF

When? Sunday-Thursday Event? Grab and go Venue? Longitude 50, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre Enjoy a sandwich of your choice and a soft drink for BD3.5 on take away orders from 11am-4pm.

E Call 17 171-441.

Indulge in a sumptuous plate of prime tenderloin and Omani lobster at Plums, Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

The prime tenderloin can be substituted with rib eye or Australian Wagyu and the Omani lobster with tiger prawns or shrimps. The offer runs throughout the month daily from 7-11pm, priced at BD33++ per person.

Call 17 586-499

STEAK AND SAMBA

BON APETIT! Experience French flavours like never before with the Sofitel Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa’s seafood restaurant La Mer featuring a special menu from July 13-21. Indulge in French culture and cuisine and enjoy only the finest dishes from seven unique regions of France that will surely make your taste buds leap with joy. A seven-course meal is priced at BD21 or BD30 with grape.

Call 17 636-363.

MEAT TREAT Meat lovers can enjoy a glorious one kilogram steak, grilled to perfection and carved, plated and served straight from the gueridon trolley to your table at Flames, ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands. It is accompanied by a choice of two sauces, assorted vegetables, potatoes and a selection of mustards. The promotion runs till August 4 and is priced at BD42++ for two guests.

Call 16 000-111.

90 July 2017

The latest venue to grace the culinary apex of Adliya is authentic Brazilian restaurant and lounge Bossa Nova, scheduled to open by the middle of July. The interior, intended to replicate the feel of a rustic rodizio, is done by Brazilian designer Thais Ramos. Guests will be able to savour delicious cuts ranging from Angus rump steak to short ribs in an all-you-can-eat buffet setting.

Beef sirloin cubes, jumbo prawns, ribeye steak, duck leg and many more gastronomic delights will be cooked by chef Guilherme Reis. Foot-tapping Portuguese and Spanish tunes will be played by resident DJ Ricardo Miguel throughout the week.

Call 17 410-844.

When? July 28 Event? Hawaiian Brunch Venue? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Indulge in a special brunch from 12.30-4pm, priced at BD35 per person.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? Daily except Monday Event? Breakfast promotion Venue? Re/ Asian Cuisine, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Enjoy an Ă la carte menu for breakfast from 6am-11am.

E Call 17 115-500.

When? Every Saturday Event? Back to the 80s Venue? Primavera, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Enjoy old-school tunes while enjoying a special apertivo menu created by chef Alfonso Ferraioli.

E Call 17 586-499.

When? Throughout July Event? Mixed Grill Venue? Furn Bistro, Westin Bahrain City Centre Enjoy lamb chops, chicken kofta, lamb tikka, shish tawook and many other delicacies.

E Call 17 171-441.

When? Daily Event? Business lunch buffet Venue? Al Safir Restaurant, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel A sumptuous lunch buffet is available from 12.30pm-3.30pm for BD10++.

E Call 17 533-533.

When? Every Wednesday Event? Get twisted Venue? Fiamma, Sofitel Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Italian chef Manuelo prepares exquisite, authentic fare from Italy to thrill your taste buds.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? July 2-31 Event? Mussels pot promotion Venue? Waves, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Delight your palate with delectable mussels, priced at BD10 per portion inclusive of a house beverage.

E Call 17 531-122. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ramadan Ghabga Amercian Express Middle East hosted a Ghabga for business partners and members of the media at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

NETT

21

BDER PERSON P

Sabine, Graziela, Ali & Mazin

WITH OUR LIVE BAND & DJ GALA INTERNATIONAL BUFFET

With Selected Beverages from 12.30 P.M - 4.00 P.M. Live Carving | Live Pasta | Live Grill | Free Pool Table & many more attractions

Neveen, Mohammed & George

Non - Alcoholic Brunch at BD 14 SPECIAL DEAL FOR GROUP BOOKINGS

4TH FLOOR, JUFFAIR,TEL: 17 811 811 STEVE 33640009 | 33536448

Jonathan & Liliane

Cyril & Mark

Hedi, Safia & Mariam

Zaid & Najwa

Arif & Hadi

Ruba & Samar

Chakkunni

Vineeth

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Anushka

Avinash

July 2017 91

bystander OTHER EVENTS

Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa held his Majlis for dignitaries, top officials and guests.

Mövenpick Hotel & Resorts welcomed Pasquale Baiguera as the new general manager of Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain.

The Nass family held its Majlis for VIPs and guests.

The Kanoo family held a Majlis at the Kanoo Compound.

KIMS Bahrain Healthcare hosted its annual Ramadan Ghabga at the Diplomat Radisson Hotel. The event was attended by diplomats, corporate dignitaries and business partners who came together to celebrate the spirit of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The Italian Ambassador’s wife, Laura, hosted the Gourmet Club at her residence.

Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, in partnership with the Royal Charity Organization, held a charity Iftar at its Ramadan tent.

City Centre Bahrain held a media Ghabga at the The Westin Hotel’s Furn Bistro.

The Westin Hotel and Le Meridien held a corporate iftar at the Baharat Restaurant.

Almoayyed Computers hosted its annual Ghabga event along with CISCO Systems at the Gulf Hotel. Senior officials from ministries, banks, public and private companies and consultants attended the event.

92 July 2017

Al Ghalia Group hosted a Dessange Spinathon thank you lunch at Mezzaluna restaurant.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

As Old as Time Audemars Piguet’s glittering new Royal Oak Offshore summer editions feature two models — a women’s diamond set version in stainless steel and a men's piece in rose gold. Both tell tales of fantasy, depicting the myth of Byblos and the abduction of Europa by Zeus.

Available at Audemars Piguet, Moda Mall.

Beauty in a Bottle Nuxe is celebrating 25 years of Huile Prodigieuse in style, by reinventing its formula to make it even more perfect. It’s still as natural, with 98.1 per cent natural origin ingredients, and is also free from paraben and mineral oils to boost skin’s radiance.

Available at Sephora and Boots.

Cool Story, Brow!

Sharpen your makeup with Make Up Forever’s Brow Show range, offering a tinted brow gel and pencil to get those instagram-worthy results. Become a showstopper with precise, sculpted brows.

Available at major beauty stores.

Fashionable Feline

Dreamy Beads

The ‘Choupette’ is not your ordinary accessory. The limited edition toy was inspired by Karl Lagerfeld’s famed cat, who took the fashion world by storm. Show off your furry friend at elegant soirees or casual parties to get everyone talking about your collectible kitty.

Available at Karl Lagerfeld, City Centre Bahrain.

Espirit’s spring/summer collection is all about sparkling, magical sphere shapes such as pearls and beads combined with dreamy pinkish to cloudy-white natural stones.

Pearls are also added to the mix to inspire the concept of a dream-like state. Rose gold and marbled gems are also part of the collection.

Available at A La Mode, City Centre Bahrain.

94 July 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

A Celebration of Colours

ELITE LADY MOONPHASE Stainless steel ultra-thin case Bezel set with 62 round diamonds: 0.75 carats Crown-adjusted moonphase indication 33mm-diameter case REFERENCES: 16.2331.692/74.C815 Yellow 16.2332.692/64.C816 Apple green 16.2333.692/54.C817 Turquoise 16.2334.692/71.C818 Red MOVEMENT Elite 692, Automatic Calibre 11½``` (Diameter: 25.60mm) Movement thickness: 3.97mm Components: 195 Jewels: 27 Frequency: 28,800 VpH (4Hz) Power-reserve: minimum 50 hours Finishing: Oscillating weight with ‘Côtes de Genève’ motif FUNCTIONS Hours and minutes in the centre Small seconds at nine o’clock Moonphase indication at six o’clock CASE, DIAL AND HANDS Diameter: 33mm Dial opening diameter: 26.75mm Thickness: 9.25mm Glass: Domed sapphire crystal with antireflective treatment on both sides Case-back: Transparent sapphire crystal Material: Stainless steel Water-resistance: Five ATM Dial: Yellow, Apple Green, Turquoise and Red lacquered Hour-markers: Engraved, rhodium-plated Hands: Leaf-shaped, rhodium-plated

An iconic style statement for women who never go unnoticed, this Swiss watchmaker’s latest timepieces are exquisitely feminine, epitomising contemporary elegance.

Zenith’s Elite collection welcomes a new model that enables its wearer to change the colour of time. Yellow, apple green, turquoise and red versions appear housed in a daintier than ever stainless steel case with diamond-set bezel.

The new Elite Lady Moonphase 33mm stands for a powerful temperament, original aesthetics and appealing hues. Offering a new perspective on time that will delight women, the timepiece not only harbours a fine mechanism but is also a beautiful piece of jewellery.

The heart of this new ladies’ watch beats to www.bahrainthismonth.com

the rhythm of the automatic Elite Calibre 692 bearing the inimitable Zenith signature.

Endowed with a more than 50-hour power reserve, this ultra-thin movement, operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and comprising 195 parts while measuring an exceptionally slim 3.97mm, powers indications of the hours, minutes, small seconds and moon phases.

With its ultra-thin 33mm-diameter case, the watch expresses the contemporary elegance of the brand through four diamond-set stainless steel variations that are fitted with a fluted crown-enabling smooth moon-phase adjustments. Its exhibition case back provides a chance to admire its mechanism powered by an oscillating weight adorned with a ‘Côtes de

Genève’ motif. Framed by a polished bezel, the pure mother-of-pearl dial is graced with a starstudded deep blue moon disc. Slender leafshaped hands sweep over stylised engraved hour-markers.

This chic and feminine interpretation of the Elite Lady Moonphase is fitted with a yellow, apple green, turquoise or red alligator leather strap featuring a protective rubber lining and secured by a stainless steel pin buckle. These four new Elite references embody grace and sophisticated technical refinement.

These timepieces are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers.

Call 17 534-444. or visit www.asiajewellers.com.

July 2017 95

marketplace UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER - KING ABDULLAH MEDICAL CITY

Dealing with Bladder Problems Dr Hamad Al Hellow, consultant urologist, explains a common problem.

Normal

Neurogenic bladder describes a number of urinary conditions in people who lack bladder control due to brain, spinal cord or nerve problems. It may result from conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, diabetes or infection of the brain or spinal cord, heavy metal poisoning, stroke, injury, major pelvic surgery or issues such as spina bifida.

Several muscles and nerves must coordinate for the bladder to hold urine until you are ready to empty it. In people with neurogenic bladder, these nerves and muscles don’t work together very well, so the bladder may not fill or empty correctly.

Bladder muscles may be overactive – often seen with strokes, brain disease and Parkinson’s disease – and squeeze more than normal before the bladder is full or they can be too loose and let urine pass before you’re ready (incontinence). Sufferers might also experience an urgent need for the bathroom, may leak urine in their sleep and need to urinate frequently.

Others may experience underactive muscles – often seen with diabetes, MS, polio, syphilis or major pelvic surgery – which do not squeeze adequately so the bladder doesn’t empty fully. The sphincter muscles around the urethra may also remain tight when trying to empty the bladder.

Overactive

Some people have symptoms of both overactive and underactive bladder – often found in those with MS, stroke and herpes zoster – and may get repeated urinary tract infections. These are often the first symptom of neurogenic bladder and are caused by harmful bacteria, viruses or yeast growing in the urinary tract.

Various treatments are available and local injection of botulinum toxin (botox) has provided extraordinary clinical benefits in the treatment of a variety of conditions characterised by inappropriately contracting muscles.

Call 77 310-000.

Ramadan Tent Opening Alsafir Hotel and Tower held an opening ceremony for its Wanasa Khaimah Tent at its premises.

Management and guests at the opening

Ramy

Khalid

KLM Ghabga KLM held a Ghabga night at Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa. Kumar, Rocco, Prem, Swapna & Nishad

Ram, Sudhakar, Mehtab & Sajeev

96 July 2017

Misbah

Shabnam

Johnny, Zall & Patric

Rocco, Prem, Kumar & Shon

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Medical Services A 24 Hours Emergency Department Bariatric Clinic Cardiology Clinic Dental Clinic Dermatology & Plastic Surgery Clinic Diabetes & Endocrine Clinic ENT ( Ears, Nose, Throat) Clinic Family Medicine & Nutrition Clinic Gastroenterology Clinic General Surgery & Laparoscopic Genetic Diseases Clinic Internal Medicine In Vitro Fertilisation Kidney Disease Clinic

Labertory Neurology Clinic Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic Oncology Ophthalmology Clinic Orthopedic Clinic Pain Management & Anesthesia Clinic Pediatric Clinic Physiotherapy Clinic Pulmonary Clinic Radiology Department Rheumatology Clinic Speech Therapy Clinic Urology Clinic

24 HOURS

EMERGENCY SERVICES

www.umc.bh 77310000

Our Location

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marketplace

Priyanka

DESSANGE PARIS

A Treat for the Tresses APPLE SHARMA This popular salon’s signature treatment will have your hair looking not only picture perfect but also nourished from the inside out.

98 July 2017

When you go for a haircut or a blow-dry, most salons will offer you the regular standard service. Dessange Paris Bahrain, however, goes the extra mile and has even the most basic thing, such as a trim, leaving you feeling truly pampered.

That was certainly my experience when I went to try the salon’s Signature Shampoo Bar, which is a personalised scalp and hair treatment with more than 85 per cent natural ingredients, including clays and essential oils, as well as precious stones and metals.

Dessange provides this service to all its customers before any cut or blow-dry.

I’ve always been of the opinion that when you go to a stylist, you should first take notice of his or her own hair to see how well it has been maintained. Keeping that in mind, I’m very glad that my knowledgeable stylist, Priyanka, did not disappoint. Looking at her lush and lustrous locks, I knew I was in good hands.

She began by asking me various questions about the condition of my scalp before deciding on the right treatment for me. Since I colour my hair and religiously take a trip to the salon every month to touch-up my roots, I have a somewhat dry and irritated scalp (must remember to not annoy it anymore!). So what I needed was something to soothe it. For me, Priyanka suggested Perle essential oil – for extra moisture and rejuvenation – and then Copper clay, which would calm and protect the skin.

This sounded lovely and I could feel my noggin thanking me in advance.

Priyanka then went on to explain the different essential oils (not used on pregnant women) and clays that the salon utilises for various treatments.

The oils include Cuivre for comforting, Malachite for purifying, Perle for recharging and Or for de-stressing.

There are also four choices of Phytodess clays available, depending on the needs of each client: Malachite purifies and refreshes greasy scalps; Copper comforts and protects tensed crowns; Gold balances and de-stresses normal skin; and Pearl revitalises and recharges dry heads.

Once I was thoroughly briefed on the benefits, Priyanka rubbed the essential oil and applied the clay to the length and ends of my hair. She then gave me a head massage and an express back rub. After leaving the treatment on for a few minutes, she shampooed and conditioned my tresses and I was ready for a blow-dry.

My hair felt silky smooth and I could feel it looking healthy and nourished, and not as dry as it usually does after my regular wash. I tend to shampoo every day but Priyanka advised me to do it on alternate days to avoid my natural oils from becoming depleted.

After the blow-dry, my mane had taken on a new life – it looked healthy and happy. Along with my hair, I too had a bounce in my step; I was ready to show off my crown, taking pleasure in the fact that it was now revitalised thanks to the pampering it so deserved.

Call 17 713-999. www.bahrainthismonth.com

RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA – SEEF

An Extraordinary Stay This eminent five-star hotel has a fantastic offer to brighten up your summer plans.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Are you wishing for a vacation but don’t want to travel too far? Then take advantage of the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa’s unbeatable Local Vacation offer. For only BD96.800, you’ll get a 24-hour luxury stay for two, inclusive of breakfast and dinner buffet. A pick up and drop off service is also provided with a chauffeurdriven high-end car, as stated by the new director of sales and marketing, Kumar Ashwani. The package is available until August 31.

A native of eastern India, executive chef Anurag Sinha found his calling in the kitchen at an early age.

He used to whip up meals for his family while his mother was working, and this made him realise his true talent. He enrolled with a catering college in Mumbai, India, and, upon graduation, joined the city’s Leela Kaminski, where he honed his skills further.

Anurag then moved to the Middle East, securing a position as sous chef at the Emirates Tower Hotel in Dubai. In 2012, he joined the Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, Dubai, as executive sous chef and went on to showcase his exquisite palate and creative gastronomy.

His motto is simple – quality products make flavourful dishes. He credits his success to this and it is an ethos he seeks to impart as he mentors the kitchen team at the Ramee Grand.

Located in the business district of Seef, the hotel is within walking distance of Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain as well as being close to all major shopping centres and local attractions. The property offers an unparalleled experience whether you are travelling on

business or leisure. Together with its world-class features and amenities, which include 166 rooms and suites with exclusive access to the club lounge, spa, fitness centre and infinity swimming pool, the hotel is certainly the best place to be for families, friends and couples to spend quality time together.

A host of dining outlets guarantees to satisfy your taste buds with a wide range of cuisines to choose from.

Ruka, a top-of-the-line Japanese eatery located on the 24th floor, offers sprawling views of Manama and a menu that boasts regular and unusual Oriental delicacies prepared with the highest quality ingredients.

Indian restaurant Rasoi takes guests on a culinary journey with its live, open kitchen paired with soothing tunes from a ghazal band, creating the perfect atmosphere to relish the sophisticated blend of flavours which celebrate the vibrancy of Indian fare.

All-day diner, Lemon Tree, is the perfect place to enjoy and celebrate the serenity of the weekend with international favourites, live cooking stations and plenty of entertainment. Tea Garden offers connoisseurs an assortment of tea, pastries, gourmet sweets, sandwiches and cookies and creates an ambience that will make you want to stay all afternoon.

Nightlife venue Ibrida is the ideal spot to flock to for classy beats while sipping on beverages whipped up by expert mixologists.

Call 17 111-999.

July 2017 99

marketplace

AMA University’s booth during EDUTEX 2017 draws potential students to learn about the university’s internationally-accredited programmes

AMA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY-BAHRAIN

A Transformative Experience Students at this university receive an internationally accredited education and continuous support in and out of the classroom.

100 July 2017

AMA International University-Bahrain (AMAIUB) ensures that its students have a transformative academic experience, which braces them to prevail in the many roles and responsibilities they will undertake in the future.

AMAIUB programmes include Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in International Business, and Bachelor of Science in Business Informatics, all of which are accredited by the European Council for Business Education. Further, the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Bachelor of Science in Informatics Engineering, and Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Engineering programmes are all ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, USA)-accredited.

These accreditations ensure students’ academic experiences meet global standards. These coveted qualifications improve employment opportunities and pave the way for graduates to be work ready locally, regionally and globally.

The university assures students that they will not only find good jobs after graduation, but rapidly adapt to future labour market needs and positively adjust to career changes because of the quality education they received at AMAIUB. Throughout the years AMAIUB has strengthened its social programmes, recognising the value and benefits of both academic training, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities. The university promotes regular participation in various sports competitions, which improve the students’ overall wellbeing and contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

Focusing on and dealing with real-life and industrybased problems as part of their graduation projects helps hone students’ research skills. A number of students have won in the Imagine Cup and have represented the Kingdom in various robotics competitions. These are just some of the avenues that allow youngsters to become innovators and use their creativity to create applications, games or solutions that can be beneficial to society.

The university offers a comprehensive range of activities, be it sports, clubs and societies, entrepreneurial or volunteering endeavours in which students actively participate. These include the Music Club, Photography Club, Writers Club and Community Engagement Club, among others.

A cultural exchange programme is also offered, namely an intercultural friendship programme, which is held in coordination with AIESEC-Bahrain and other local, regional and international organisations. Further, a student assistance programme offers seminars and workshops that enhance soft skills and provide mentoring, advising and aid in conflict resolution.

The university regards students not as clientele, but as learning partners, encouraging them to take control of their personal development, helping them to shape their own future and transform their lives.

AMAIUB has opened registration for the academic year 2017-2018.

Call 17 787-978 or 17 787-950. www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERCOL

Falling in Love with Scandinavian Design

Raun Forsyth and Alasdair McPhail

Astonishing attention to detail and sophisticated styling were the driving forces behind the creation of this stunning new range of devices.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Raun Forsyth and Alasdair Mcphail, design directors at HMD Global, led the team behind the newest smartphones – the Nokia 3, Nokia 5 and Nokia 6.

As a newly established product team, they began by drawing on the brand’s heritage and defining a solid common vision. The goal was to deliver durable and smart devices that are so beautiful you fall in love with them.

Phones have such intricate internals that you cannot design the exterior without understanding the functionality of each part. The experienced engineers created a plain back panel by hiding the antenna lines on the edge of the phone without negatively impacting the performance.

If you take away what’s not essential from a device, the features that remain are naturally better quality, as there is more attention and space for them. When deciding which materials to use for the chassis, the team started by determining what qualities are most important to users.

Metal provides durability but piecing together separate parts to create a shell results in a higher risk of them breaking apart and disrupting the structural integrity. The team invested in a metal unibody and each Nokia smartphone is carved from a single block of aluminium, a process that takes 12 hours per unit.

People buy on emotion. We can’t help but react to how the look of something makes us feel. That is why, often, beauty overrides logic – consumers are known to choose the aesthetically pleasing device over the supercomputer. It’s a hard balancing act to fit performance into a shell designed in isolation, which is why the designers worked from the outset with engineering, making it possible to bundle functionality and usability with a sleek and beautiful design.

Not everyone has the same preferences when it comes to the size, weight, shape and colour of their smartphone. So instead of trying to get it almost right for the largest set of consumers they decided to get it exactly right for everyone by creating a portfolio.

The designers experimented with ergonomics that stop short from being completely rational – a shape that is ultra-cool, edgy and different. With sharpmachined sidewalls, this design has attitude; it is not trying to be loved. The smartphone makes a strong statement to customers who are looking for something meaningfully different.

Even when phones sell, the design team often doesn’t get the kudos as people often assign the success to technical specifications. But it is easy to get bored by the spec race so it is time to give people real choice, and the only way to do that is through design.

Prices range from BD52 for the Nokia 3 to BD67 for the Nokia 5 and BD83 for the Nokia 6.

Call 17 727-177 or email infotech@intercol.com July 2017 101

marketplace RAYMOND

Exotic Options The latest offerings from this men’s fashion brand guarantee style and elegance 365 days a year.

Luxuriant, indulgent and light as a feather, Raymond’s wool-rich collection is known for its supreme, year-round comfort.

Apart from its luxurious texture and stylish good looks, Raymond offers this stylish selection in a range of 100-per-cent natural wool which is one of the most versatile fibres available. The company also offers “cool wool”, as it is fondly called, which has a thermos regulation feature and excellent breathability is its superpower.

With the range going up to Super 240s and 13.5 micron fibre, the finest in the world, the fabrics are woven using state-of-the-art technology and contemporary designs making Raymond a sophisticated choice for superior suiting. Known for its classy drape and elegant look, the brand’s Exotic collection features fabrics that whisper on your skin.

Kumar’s WLL represents Raymond with two showrooms at Exhibition Road and Al Hadrami Road, Manama.

The third grand showroom is now in Seef, offering premium suiting fabrics along with a made-to-measure concept. Visit at Seef District, opposite Starbucks, the Courtyard.

Call 17 840-506/17 296-363.

CASA CUCINA

Quality Décor and Style A stalwart of the island’s kitchen supplies sector has expanded with a new facility offering top names in home décor.

The newest arrival from the well-known Kumar’s Group, Casa Cucina is the place to go if you are seeking premium-quality home and kitchen collections that combine strength and beauty with unique, trend-setting and elegant design.

From residential spaces to offices, hotels and restaurants, customers can conveniently add a touch of class and individuality to their personal and professional spaces with a variety of new items and fresh trends from Casa Cucina’s extensive portfolio, which will enable you to make a remarkable impression in your living or work space.

The store’s unique products complement emerging trends in home and kitchen collections and also make for great gifts that will be forever remembered and treasured by family, friends and business associates.

Build your home and kitchen with a personal touch of unique and modern lifestyle with a visit 102 July 2017

to Casa Cucina. The showroom is situated in a prestigious location in the heart of Seef District, opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard.

For more updates on what’s available at the shop follow the store on Facebook and Instagram @casacucinabahrain.

Call 17 840-707 / 17 296-363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace MIDDLE EAST HOSPITAL

Let Your Kids Smile Bright Like the rest of the body, oral health needs care and attention from the very beginning.

Tooth decay is the most common chronic illness and can have a profound impact on a child’s overall health and quality of life. Dr Preeti Santosh, pediatric and preventive dental specialist at Middle East Hospital gives us some practical pointers on how best to care for the pearly whites of your little ones.

A total of 20 baby teeth, also known as milk or primary teeth, erupt at different stages from six months to three years of age. They are important for chewing, speech, growth and development of the jaws and the surrounding musculature and preserve the space for the underlying permanent denticulation in the jaws.

Their care may help achieve a lifetime of oral as well as overall health.

Problems caused by poor oral health include: • Pain and discomfort • Difficulty sleeping • Trouble chewing, which may affect growth and development • Poor self-esteem • Speech development problems • Damage to budding permanent teeth.

How can you make a difference in achieving sound oral health for your child?

• Inspecting the oral cavity: This is done by lifting the lip to ensure that the teeth have not changed colour and the gums are pink.

• Identifying signs of decay: Looking out for white spots, brown or black discolouration on teeth, or black tooth stumps.

• Getting a check-up: An examination and cleaning by paediatric dentists are vital to prevent problems before they start. By diagnosing any concerns early on, further treatment can be minimised. The American Association of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that the initial dental visit be made by a child’s first birthday.

The best way to impart good oral hygiene is to start with proper cleaning with fluoride toothpaste. As soon as a baby starts teething, the mouth should be cleaned with a moist gauze or cloth and thoroughly wiped thereafter.

For children below three years of age, brush with a smear of fluoridated toothpaste twice daily – morning and night. Teach the child to www.bahrainthismonth.com

spit out the foam caused by brushing.

For children between three and six years of age, a caregiver must help with correct brushing, twice a day for two minutes each. A pea-sized amount of toothpaste should be used. Flossing should be carried out between teeth touching one another.

Young ones should be taught not to share spoons and utensils with others to prevent transmission of bacteria. It is not advised to put the child to sleep with a pacifier dipped in honey, or while still sucking from a bottle, to prevent cavities.

Toddlers must be encouraged to drink from a cup by the time they turn one. A healthy start to life includes choosing fruit and vegetables over candies or cookies, thereby limiting the intake of artificial sugars. Water and milk should be the preferred drink for children.

Natural fruit juices should be chosen over aerated drinks and fresh over juice. Make it a habit to brush after eating food like sticky caramel and toffees, to ensure great dental health throughout life.

Call 17 362-233 or visit Middle East Hospital in Segaya.

Dr Preeti Santosh

July 2017 103

marketplace ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Live Life Headache Free Don’t let a debilitating pain in your head stop you from living each day to the fullest. The neurologists from this reputed hospital are ready to come to the rescue.

Do you get constant headaches? At times even the simplest of activities or emotions have the potential to trigger a headache or a migraine. People usually turn to painkillers such as paracetamol for a quick solution, but that might not be enough.

Living up to its commitment to bringing the latest technological solutions in medicine, Royal Bahrain Hospital (RBH) has now introduced the Sphenocath device and procedure, which is used to treat conditions such as severe headaches, migraines, facial and dental pain and post-traumatic stress disorder, to name a few.

This quick and simple procedure delivers anaesthetic effect through the nasal cavity, which in turn creates what is called a Sphenopalatine

Ganglion (SPG) that blocks migraine pain without the use of medication or needles. It is a 10-15-minute procedure that allows patients to be relieved from pain and eliminates the side-effects emanating from long-term medication.

The SPG block method has multiple benefits, including a short practice time, higher success rate, safety for adults, children and expecting mothers — ultimately resulting in long-lasting pain relief. In typical cases, patients may need five to eight treatments per year for a lasting effect, but the doctor can suggest a suitable plan based on the results.

This new headache and migraine solution is currently offered at RBH at the neurology department

by Dr Adel Al Jishi and Dr Sayed Moh’d Alsaffar, both experienced consultants in neurology.

Dr Adel Al Jishi

Call 17 246-800, WhatsApp 32 181-810 or book an appointment online at www.royalbahrainhospital.com.

Dr Sayed Moh’d Alsaffar

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

Memories for a Lifetime This famous international hotel chain is all set to make your wedding dreams come true.

A marriage is a notable milestone in your life and it’s only fitting that you pull out all the stops to celebrate this special day of love and togetherness. What better place to do this than at the classy InterContinental Regency Bahrain?

The hotel’s dedicated team of professionals is at hand to ensure that your big day is a memorable one, where you feel confident and relaxed. Even the minutest of details is taken care of, which will leave you free to truly enjoy the happy occasion with your significant other, family and friends.

Exceptional service and understated luxury sets InterContinental Regency Bahrain apart from other locations on the island. This, coupled with versatile banquet spaces, superior quality of food and personalised service, makes it a unique venue for dreamy nuptials. Tailor your package and menu from the variety of options available. Select from a range of diverse cuisines, each prepared using the finest ingredients. The hotel has an 104 July 2017

experienced team on call to advise and guide you on matters related to food, decorations, ambiance and more. No matter what your wish, this establishment promises you a beautiful and unforgettable event that you so deserve.

Choose from either Al Thurayya or the Ambassador Hall, both providing abundant natural light. The elegant Al Rifaa Ballroom,

which boasts spectacular high ceilings, has an exclusive entrance along with a private majlis and a pre-function area. With a capacity to seat up to 350 guests, this centrally located property can be perfect for a gala wedding reception.

Call 17 227-777 or 17 208-313. www.bahrainthismonth.com

FRASER SUITES DIPLOMATIC AREA

La Crème de la Crème This five-star hotel offers an extravagant lifestyle option for guests who desire the plush life.

Nestled within the capital’s central business district, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area is a frequent stop for international travellers visiting Bahrain, thanks to its impeccable guest services and top-of-the-line residences.

All accommodations at this towering oasis of luxury are well-appointed with world-class facilities that are in line with the global Frasers Hospitality brand. The last two floors of the 30-storey property are dedicated to offering the most magnificent hospitality to discerning clientele by way of its penthouse suites. Three on each floor, the spacious suites are of twoand three-bedroom configurations.

The most noticeable highlight is the high ceilings that add an air of grandeur to the space. The living area is furnished with top-ofthe-range gadgets, furniture and the most elegant fixtures, and its opulence is reflected in

the exquisite marble flooring. At the command of a remote control, the beautiful draperies part to expose floor-to-ceiling glass walls, bathing the room with daylight. This is probably where the most spectacular views of Manama’s skyline can be seen. All suites boast highspeed Internet.

The spacious interiors include an unobtrusive kitchenette complete with sleek appliances – electric kettle, coffee machine, ceramic hob, chimney and microwave oven.

The bedrooms are dressed in solid wood panelling, with parquet flooring to match, for a cosy, albeit ultra-hedonistic, feel. En suite bathrooms allow guests to enjoy a relaxing soak in the tub while admiring the stunning views from the glass façade as if floating in the air.

There are several special amenities for guests of the bespoke penthouses, such as complimentary Swedish massage, L’Occitane products, airport transfers, breakfast and early check in/out subject to availability.

So if you want to pamper yourself, your family, or overseas business associates, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area is your best bet.

Call 16 161-888 or WhatsApp 33 621-016.

Nayia & Chris

Renuka, Nisreen & Hanadi

Rotary Ghabga

All three Rotary clubs and the Rotaract Club of Bahrain jointly organised a Ghabga night at Coral Bay. Noor, Amira, Akram & Sebahat

Costas

Nouf, Fatima & Noor

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ajay

Khalid, Faisal, Seema, Roya & Nadine

Israa & Shouq

Ashraf

Hameed, Sebahat, Mohammed & Veeran

July 2017 105

marketplace business bites

A Diplomatic Appointment

Swiss Brand Branches Out

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Bahrain has announced the appointment of a new general manager.

Kosta Kourotsidis is a German-Greek national who has gained extensive experience in the hospitality industry during his 20-year career.

Educated at Cornell University, he started out with Copthorne and Millennium Hotel in Hanover, Germany.

He joined the Rezidor Hotel Group in 2000 and was with several hotels in Europe before moving to the region.

Kosta was a part of the Rezidor General Manager fast track programme, moving around various properties sharing his expertise and assisting teams with openings until he moved to Radisson Blu Tripoli, Libya. From there he joined Radisson Blu Martinez Hotel Beirut, Lebanon and most recently was GM at Radisson Blu Hotel Downtown Dubai before making the move to Bahrain.

Swiss-Belhotel International (SBI) has signed a management agreement with Hassan Lari Property Development & Management to operate SwissBelresidences Juffair in Bahrain. This latest announcement is not only testament to the group’s growing footprint in the GCC but also marks the debut of Swiss-Belresidences brand in the Kingdom.

Expected to open by the end of 2017, Swiss-Belresidences Juffair is an upper midscale hotel apartments complex featuring 129 well-appointed two- and threebedroom serviced units each equipped with great facilities including a fully-fledged kitchen. Enjoying a prime location in the city, in close proximity to popular shopping and dining attractions, the hotel also boasts outstanding facilities such as a swimming pool, a large spa connected with the health club, a mini theatre, a kids’ club, an all-day-dining restaurant and a deli corner in the lobby.

Gavin M Faull, chairman and president of Swiss-Belhotel International, says: “This new signing reinforces our commitment to the Middle East where we currently have more than 3,500 rooms under development. We are excited to expand our presence in the region and offer our guests more choice in this evolving market where we have been operating with great success for over a decade.”

Peters Steps Up

Gulf Hotels Group (GHG) has appointed Ron Peters as deputy chief executive officer. He joined the company in August 2006 as GM of Gulf Brands International and has led its transformation into one of the most successful beverages businesses in the Kingdom.

A seasoned professional, Ron Peters has over 20 years’ experience in the UK and Middle East covering the hospitality, leisure and food and beverages retail sectors. His successful track record has embraced strategic, business and operational development at a senior executive level, including new concepts and brand management.

He will continue to oversee the Gulf Brands International division in addition to coordinating the efforts of the GHG executive management team and spearheading the expansion of the restaurant division.

“I relish the challenge of being closely involved in the group’s ongoing strategic evolution, and further strengthening its reputation as a pioneering and highly-respected player in the regional hospitality sector,” says Ron.

Hotel Provision Expanding The Kingdom’s hospitality sector is still expanding with 5,100 new guest rooms, across 15 four- and five-star hotels, currently in the development pipeline.

According to a report by property expert CBRE, the new properties are estimated to cost more than USD10 billion and there are a number of big-name brands set to launch in the next five years including The One&Only Resort, Wyndham Grand Hotel, Fairmont, Vida Hotel & Resort, Ibis Hotel and Pullman Hotel.

“The region is seeing an influx of new hotel rooms in spite of reduced demand and prolonged economic challenges primarily as a result of deflated oil prices. The majority of hotel rooms available in the Bahrain market in 2016 were in the four-star market constituting 43 per cent of 106 July 2017

total room supply. In terms of future supply of hotel rooms in the development pipeline, there are an additional 5,100 rooms planned to be introduced by 2021 which will further advance the standard of property in the Bahrain market,” says Heather Longden, associate director, CBRE Bahrain. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Al Hamra Cinema Facelift

Georgia Flights Take Off

Bahrain Cinema Company announced the reopening of Al Hamra Cinema following extensive refurbishments.

The venue now features advanced seating with a stadium layout offering increased legroom. Works were carried out to improve the lobby area to ease traffic and help with crowd control, as well as modernisations to the common waiting areas at the ground and first floor levels. The refit includes enhanced screens and superior audio quality systems and a separate balcony has been added to cater to a broader audience spectrum. The interiors of the cinema underwent extravagant redecoration with plush carpeting and wall lighting.

Gulf Air celebrated the launch of its highly anticipated direct threetimes-weekly service to the Georgian capital Tbilisi. A celebratory event took place at Bahrain International Airport with The Georgian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman HE George Janjgava joining Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs officials, Bahrain International Airport officials and members of Gulf Air’s executive management team.

E-Wallet Launch

The Benefit Company in collaboration with FOO technologies has created the National Mobile Electronic Wallet (BenefitPay), e-payment software designed to streamline payment within the Kingdom.

Due to launch this month the system allows users to download an app onto their smartphones and settle payments electronically without the use of cash or a physical card.

BenefitPay also allows merchants to receive payments without the use of more sophisticated machines as is the case today. They can also accept and review payments using any smart-device at their disposal. This means that merchants and consumers will be in complete control of transactions and can view their histories digitally.

The first phase of E-Wallet is due to go live this month and will consist of consumers adding their payment instrument information (debit cards) to the app and merchants applying for acceptance of payment using QR code technology.

The second phase is due to commence before the end of the fiscal year with the implementation of Fawri, Fawateer and Near Field Communication payments, as well as the addition of marketing services for merchants to engage in sales promotion with users of the app. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Best in Region Bahrain-based Silah Gulf triumphed at the Insights Middle East Call Centre Awards 2017 with the award for ‘Best Government Help Desk’ in the region. In its 12th edition, the annual event establishes the regional standards for successful remote interaction with customers. The event gathered a large number of international as well as regional experts and specialists in the field of customer service.

The conference highlighted the development of customer interaction methodologies as well as strategies, techniques and employee management skills so as to enhance the performance and capabilities of call centres.

“We are honoured to have been selected for the award ‘Best Government Help Desk’ in the Middle East. I would like to extend my gratitude to our staff, clients and partners who contributed to this project and believe in us – such belief qualified us to win this award and surpass our counterparts in the Middle East,” says Silah Gulf CEO Ricardo Langwieder-Görner.

He also stresses that the award reflects the keenness and interest of the government sector in Bahrain to remotely advance the customer service sector.

July 2017 107

bystander OTHER EVENTS

Bahrain Airport Services held a corporate Ghabga at the Art Rotana Amwaj.

Gulf Hotels Group CEO, Garfield Jones and director of human resources and development, Mahmoud Abd El Monem met with their current batch of management trainees to review their progress and their experiences whilst training in Switzerland. L-R: Hassan Farazi, Faten Al Ansari, Husam Ismaeel, Garfield Jones, Mahmoud Abd El Monem, Rayyan Ahmadi and Aysha Al Khaledi.

VIVA Bahrain held its annual Ramadan media Ghabga at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Van Cleef & Arpels launched its Frivole collection at its boutique at Moda Mall.

Crowne Plaza held a Ramadan Iftar for the media at La Mosaique.

NAVCENT Commander, Vice Admiral Kevin M Donegan, paid a visit to the American Mission Hospital.

Behbehani Brothers held a Volkswagen Ramadan Ghabga at Al Areen Palace and Spa.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel hosted an Iftar for the elderly from the UCO Care Centre.

Bahrain Bourse authorised the appointment of BDO Consulting as a specialised advisory firm operating within the Bahrain Investment Market.

The Bahrain Society for Training & Development in association with the International Coach Federation Bahrain Chapter organised a Bahraini Coaching Day at the Applied Science University.

The Sri Lankan Malays had their inaugural social event at Ramada Manama City Centre.

108 July 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from A La Mode.

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

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Bahrain This Month received 103 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

The Stack Lego-themed event takes place where? ______________________________________________

Winner : Savio Anthony Second Place : Pushpa Pradeep Third Place : Maria Fernandes

Red Bull BC One Bahrain takes place on what date? ______________________________________________ What car did BTM test drive this month? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

Ad Seek:

2. June 1st

2. LC Waikiki

1. Oasis Mall

The JAC Motors Sunray has what type of engine? ______________________________________________

1. Swiss-Belhotel

3. Ki Train

3. Mercure Hotel-

4. Paul Fraser

What model did BMW recently launch? ______________________________________________

5. Turbocharged flat-four 350bhp 6. S3

Al Bawadi Tent

4. Downtown Rotana

7. The Dingolfing plant

In which year did Paul Restaurant and Bakery first open in Croix, France? ______________________________________________

8. Al Maha Tent

9. Gilgamesh Ballroom 10. Pashawat

Which popular Indian eatery has opened a branch in Amwaj? ______________________________________________

Name:

Address:

Which Ibiza-based DJ will be at Palm Beach this month? ______________________________________________

Telephone:

With which huge Belgian electronic festival is Mikael Weermets associated? ______________________________________________

Email: CPR:

What is the name of the new Malaysian Ambassador to Bahrain?

Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

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AD Seek

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tarotscope

CANCER

June 21 – July 20

You may have been feeling under a great deal of strain over the last few months and the frustrating thing is that much of this related to problems that weren’t even of your own making. However, the good news is that July heralds a new dawn for you in many ways and it will see you relaxing and being better placed to enjoy the world around you. It is worth remembering that you have a lot of positives in your life at the moment but sometimes small issues can grow out of all proportion, masking the good things. This month you will rise above the clouds and see things in a much clearer and illuminating fashion.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Swords For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

LEO July 21 – August 21

Tread carefully this month, Leo, especially if you have any dealings with a Taurean or an Aries, or you may find yourself in difficult waters. Being stubborn is not going to do anyone any favours and the likelihood is that you may have a very high price to pay in the long term otherwise. The more sensible approach would be to swallow your pride and do the right thing. It doesn’t matter if you don’t like it – you need to take the moral approach here. If there are children involved, then it is even more important that you factor their feelings into the equation as well. Things will come to a head quickly – possibly as soon as the 15th.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Wands

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

A good friend is going to come to you for assistance and a shoulder to cry on this month to be helped through a particularly difficult time. You must confront matters of a very serious nature but it will help cement an already wellestablished friendship – although what you take on will prove to be a longterm commitment. On a more material subject, you could be in line to purchase a new vehicle but you should take care before making your final choice. If you can, get a friend or relative to help you make your decision.

The number seven and the colour blue both have significance in this area, as are the initials A and D. Card of the Month — The Nine of Pentacles 110 July 2017

LIBRA September 22 – October 21

You are about to face the real possibility of taking on a new fight that is going to test your resolve and could last for many months – possibly beyond 2017 and into the next year. Above all else, you should only consider engaging in what will inevitably become a legal battle if you have the stamina, and more importantly, belief in the cause. Enter this half-heartedly and you will end up regretting it later. Nothing but total commitment is required and if you adopt this attitude then you will be certain to come out on top at the end. Just remember that the dice are stacked in your favour but you have to throw them with conviction.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Wands

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21 You can look forward to a positive time this July as health issues that have plagued you are finally resolved. For many of you the problem has centred on your skin or hair and there will be a great deal of relief – in turn bringing a new sense of purpose about you. Scorpio loves to be the centre of attention – the soul in the thick of things – but when your confidence is low then you often find it hard to operate. The Six of Pentacles illuminates your reading and brings with it the promise of good things and positive openings. Consider 2017 as really starting now so make this July 1st your real New Year’s Day. Card of the Month — The Six of Pentacles SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 The focus for many of you this month will be children and you should stand your ground on an issue involving a young boy. It could have something to do with school or trouble with bullying but, whatever the reason, you may have to exercise a little tact and patience before the truth finally surfaces. Once everything is out in the open, be quick to deal with it otherwise events could run away from you. The last thing you want is for someone else to take control of this situation. By the end of July things will be moving along at a considerable rate so make sure you have everything in hand to ensure you get the result you require.

Card of the Month — The Pope CAPRICORN Dec 22 – Jan 21 After a difficult time in a relationship – where many crossed words and countless arguments have hindered your progress as a couple – the world opens up for you with the chance to put things right this month. Too many people have sought to interfere with your partnership or marriage and only now, as you both decide enough is enough, are you able to see that the actions of jealous people have been the only real problem in your life. It will feel like you and a loved one have suddenly fallen in love all over again and for a time everything is going to feel like it is brand new. Learn from what has gone before so that you are not held back again through the fault of others.

Card of the Month — The Lovers AQUARIUS January 21 – February 20

You could be driven by your emotions this month and this could lead to heartache. This has inevitably made some of you more cautious over time and your attitude to love has changed to something a little more reserved. However, someone is about to enter your life and light it up in such a big way that all your inhibitions could be thrown to the wind. This new person will be fair-haired, smooth-talking and. above all else, appear completely devoted to you. In fact, he or she will provide you with a welcomed alternative to some of the disappointments of the past and for a lucky few, could turn out to be the real deal.

Card of the Month — Judgement www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index PISCES Feb 21 – Mar 20

This month it is all about cutting your losses and dealing with circumstances before they get any worse. In simple terms, it is all about damage limitation for you. Those of you with money issues may end up receiving help from an unexpected source – most probably a relative you didn’t realise could help – but there will be conditions attached to any assistance provided and you may have to swallow your pride to see the deal through. On a happier note, you may get a phone call out of the blue from a longforgotten friend who is back in town and anxious to rekindle relationships.

Card of the Month — TheThe Magician

ARIES Mar 21 – Apr 20

After a troubled June, life will return to some form of normality for many of you in July and you can look forward to a more balanced month. Work will be high on the agenda and a new vacancy that opens in your current company could prove to be just the incentive you need to move yourself out of a career rut. It may end up being just you and another ambitious colleague who fight it out for the position but if you play to your strengths you will hold the upper hand. Just don’t allow yourself to be intimidated and you are sure to come out on top. You may hear good news on the outcome as early as the 21st so prepare to celebrate.

Card of the Month — The King of Wands

TAURUS May 21 – June 20 Life isn’t all about money but there is no doubting that sometimes having it can help. For you, the last few months have been all about fighting to keep the ship afloat financially and it has put more than a little strain on both you and a loved one. Fortunately, a new horizon beckons and most of your financial worries will be a thing of the past by the middle of the month. This will infuse you with a new sense of confidence and assist you in moving forward to other projects with more purpose and direction. It will also help matters as far as your loved ones are concerned, with a wife or partner being the main beneficiary.

Card of the Month — The Five of Cups GEMINI May 21 – June 20

For many of you, the curse of an overbearing boss or work colleague has made your days less that enjoyable and in some extreme cases even left some of you considering a complete change of career. Fortunately, this month will see you make an ally in a new employee and it will also give you the opportunity to have someone else fight from your corner for you. Believe me when I say that the impact is going to be impressive. On the family front, a young child is going to need your support in the coming weeks and this may involve you having to keep a secret on their behalf, so stay tight-lipped no matter what.

Card of the Month — The Knight of Swords

Financial Institutions

EK. Kanoo (Motor City) . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

Citibank N.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC JAC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Hotels & Serviced Residences

Others

Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 91

Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Baisan International Hotel . . . . . . . . . 73

AMA University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Fraser Suites (Diplomatic Area) . . . . 17

Doroos Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

InterContinental Regency Bahrain . . 53

House of Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Novotel Al Dana Resort . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Intercol:IAA (Nokia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Jawad Business Group . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy

The Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Jewellery & Watches

K Home & Kitchen (Casa Cucina) . . 11

Asia Jewellers (Panerai) . . . . . . . . . . . 2

K Home & Kitchen (Raymond) . . . . . . 11

Sharif Group (Rochas) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Mukta A2 Multiplex S.P.C . . . . . . . . . . 55 Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Medical & Dental Services American Mission Hospital . . . . . . . . 31

Restaurants & Cafés

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 15

Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Middle East Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . 25, 81

Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

University Medial Center King Abdullah

Kazbah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Medical City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Paul Bakery & Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . 1

Motoring

The Butcher Shop & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . 59

Lantern’s Lounge & Restaurant . . . . . 87

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

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Cheryl Cole

Benedict Cumberbatch

Diane Kruger

FAMOUS CANCER THIS MONTH

Technal Middle East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets

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

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

July 2017 111

lastword

Old Man’s Rant

GEG HOPKINS Is there such a thing as a new joke, or just the names and faces changed to protect the innocent?

112 July 2017

Observational humour such as the Billy Connolly type or the hilarious Michael McIntyre is somehow not considered offensive, yet both are nonstop p*** takers in their own right. The late Bernard Manning, however, was loathed by the lefty luvvies who would gladly have had him burned at the stake, saved only because the very same pathetic zeros don’t believe in corporal or capital punishment. Now birching is a different thing, since that will no doubt please a lot of politicians, who fancy a bit of S&M and will demand the punisher dresses in leather.

‘Two old ladies sitting on the beach and a male streaker ran past. One of the girls had a stroke, but the other couldn’t reach.’ Now what the hell is wrong with that? If McIntyre had said it, the world would laugh like drains, but because it was a Manning joke, it was ‘disgusting’. Regurgitated crap from the bent media and ego obsessed politicians and wannabe movie stars who uninvitedly speak for us all, gasping at the joke subject as being ‘out of line, derogatory, stereotyping’ or any other in-vogue expression they spew out. Oddly, the very same condone gratuitous, vivid sex acts on film in the name of art. Politicians seem to do it for free and distribute the videos secretly among themselves, then pass laws to sanctify their kinks and obscure their inner guilt.

So what about fictitious characters? Oh no, that too is so offensive as it refers to others. Someone you don’t know, never met, probably doesn’t exist, but that is ‘offensive’: Quasimodo comes home and his wife is holding a wok. Quasi perks up: “Are we having Chinese tonight?” The wife has a look of distaste and says: “Dream on Quasi, I’m just ironing your shirt.”

“Oh! How could you?” screeches Diane Abbot.

“That’s so offensive to camels.” Titter you may, but the underlying ‘forced’ conditioning which has been a

Fabian goal since the 50s will eventually create wars, just as the anti-Trump and anti-Brexit brigade in their millions are headlong into now, contradicting the very democracy they pretentiously defend. One of the most ludicrous, no shame, sanctimoniously personified comments came from a talking head on the BBC a few weeks back. The programme was about ‘terraforming’ other planets. Quote: “This all sounds very good, creating an atmosphere and liveable conditions on Mars, but do we have the right to do that?” It wasn’t Diane Abbot, but it might just as well have been.

‘Colour prejudice’ is a term we don’t hear much of these days, having been replaced by ‘racist’. Perhaps the time comes when man, as in homoerectus (no, we are not talking about you Mr Varadkar) will not distinguish between race or colour? Hopefully! But conflict between creeds and cultures is endless. The rather definitive term ‘Native American’ has its obvious distinction, since all Americans except them, came from somewhere else. Whoever came up with the ludicrously lush and extremely divisive nomenclature ‘African American’ has one hell of a lot to answer for. You are either African or you are American and it is plain to see that, unless one is colour blind, so let’s not get into the Stevie Wonder jokes! It is tribal, it has created affiliations which are wholly gang-like by definition. Conversely, ‘ethnic prejudice’ is infinitely more prevalent, yet authorities supress this at all costs, particularly when a crime is committed by an immigrant. Now having explained that, there can be absolutely nothing racist about the following statement but dare any comedian other than Manning utter it: “There is no such thing as a black Englishman. That’s like a dog claiming it’s a horse because it was born in a stable.” It is merely the bare bottom honest truth. Politicians and the BBC, most of whom have teething rings in their pillows are so wired up their own anal dustbins, create smokescreens thus deem it beyond offensive.

What’s the funniest joke you have heard this year?

For sure it was racist, sexist, dirty or inappropriate.

One ‘old’ favourite doing the rounds is ironically considered offensive to the homeless who have ‘every right’ to choose their predicament, says Corbyn’s clan. Needless to say, a very feasible solution if someone had the balls to do it and to hell with the BBC or any other zealous luvvie. “A young lady’s life was saved today, she was on the edge of a bridge intent on committing suicide. With nobody else around, this old tramp passed by, looked up at her and asked: ‘Lady, if you are going to end it all, is a quick shag before you go out of the question?’. Adding to her distress, she turned to the tramp and screamed: ‘Certainly not! Get away from me you filthy, smelly thing.’ With that, the tramp just shrugged his shoulders and said; ‘No worries, I’ll just wait at the bottom.” (Blame David Bloomer, he dug that one up).

More next month unless… www.bahrainthismonth.com

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