Bahrain This Month - June 2013

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

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June 2013 ~ Vol. 17 ~ Issue 6 www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Bear Attraction

Family Fun

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Featured This Month:

Italy in Bahrain | Far Eastern Cuisine | Gadgets For Summer

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

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Issue 190

Contents June 2013 Cover Story:

23 A Bear Attraction Encouraging an imaginative inclination is a great skill to impart to children; when it’s done through a theatrical

23

performance it’s also great fun.

Happenings: Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of June 2013:

24

52

23 Bear Hunt: Susan Cookson’s acclaimed book is brought to life 26 Finding A Connection: Arthur D’Souza’s latest exhibition 28 Vive La Musique!: A celebration of World Music Day 31 Poetry in Motion: Gymnastic competition for aspiring performers 33 Shuttle Schemers: Regional badminton tournament 23-33-Calendars: Events during June

Spotlight:

48 Transforming Lives Caring for others can easily be lost in a world where a sense of entitlement often seems to be pervasive; Celine

48

54

Vaandrager proves the human spirit is alive and well.

Business:

51 Building a Service Culture The 2nd GCC Annual Customer Excellence Conference offers an insight into the latest thinking and strategies for businesses to place their customers first.

64

138 Bystander At BTM we popped into see what all the fuss was at the Gulf Property Show and Gulf Interior Exhibition, and then headed for an orange ball with our Dutch friends. After a Greek lunch, we savoured some Indian delights at the Sofitel and enjoyed a Turkish food festival at the Mercure Grand. We got soaked at the raft race and then sought some pampering at the Thalassa Spa.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

52 Are You Being Watched?

An enterprising local company, Arteleus, aims to deploy GPS technology to make all our lives a little bit easier, and influence our lifestyle choices.

54 Seeing is Believing Duaij Khalifa Al Rumaihi tells us all about the letter ‘C’ as Bahrain City Centre implements a new brand strategy to refresh the mall.

June 2013 3

Issue 190

Contents June 2013 Italy in Bahrain:

64 An Italian Lifestyle

72

HE Alberto Vecchi tells us about relations between the Kingdom and his country; we also took the latest Maserati Quattroporte for a test drive.

Destination Report:

72 Arabian Paradise

The tropical setting of Salalah, in Oman, belies its location in the Middle East, particularly during the monsoon season. It is a site to behold.

Downtime:

66

78

77 From Sherlock to Starfleet: Going from the small to the big screen 78 Travel with Ease: Essential gadgets for the holiday season 82 Tech Savvy: All the gear for an urban life 87 Music: Up the punks 88 Computer Games: How to be a hero 89 Websites: Jamming with friends 90 Apps: Stargazing with an iPad 91 Movies: Live long and prosper 92 Sat TV: Imdulge in drama

Motoring:

111 Top Honours: Hyundai Centennial 112 Showcase: Peugeot 301

Dining:

117

129

117 A Taste of Asia: PF Chang’s 118 Happenings: Where to dine this month 119 Showcase: Kenza @ The K Hotel 120 Far Eastern Cuisine: Exotic flavours that entice

After Dark:

129 All in One: Chasing the tiger 130 Happenings: Where to be seen this month 132 Showcase: Showing off at Dublin

Showcase: 26

28

31

149 150 151 152

www.bahrainthismonth.com

33

135 What’s New: Increase the volume 136 Marketplace: Latest products and services

WIN WIN Tarotscope AD Index Last word

Regulars:

149 WIN WIN 150 Tarotscope 151 AD Index 152 Last Word

June 2013 5

The team

Bahrain This Month June 2013

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

Dear Readers,

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

Published monthly by

Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P.O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place St., Helier Jersey JE48JJ, Channel Islands, U.K.

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

• Views expressed in this magazine by journalists

and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month.

Cover

Cover Picture: Catch ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ at The Cultural Hall.

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

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

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A feature of the arrival of the summer months in the Kingdom is often an increasing focus on children. As one tranche of events starts to wind down as the first half of the year draws to a close, another seems to gather momentum.

In this issue our lead happenings story takes us on bear hunt, at least figuratively speaking. Sally Cookson’s book is now an entertaining theatre production that will thrill children and adults alike. Meanwhile, over at the British School of Bahrain there’s the first of what is hoped to be an annual gymnastic competition for children under the age of 12.

The Manama Singers’ French-inspired evening of music, to celebrate World Music Day on June 21, draws upon a number of talented youngsters from local schools for a rendition of Chorus of the Street Children, an emblematic song from the movie version of Les Miserables.

Bahrain City Centre, whose senior manager, Duaij Khalifa Al Rumaihi, we interview in our business pages, hosts a series of sports camps for kids during the course of the month. Our spotlight article is an ample articulation of the first letter of the St Christopher’s School’s ‘S’. Caring for others is translated into action by Celine Vaandrager, a teenager at the school who is seeking to raise funds for her own charity.

Coinciding with Italian National day we speak to HE Alberto Vecci about relationships between the two countries. When it comes to an Italian lifestyle, it would not be complete without a luxury sports car; our publishing director and Bahrain This Month editor, David M Robertson, recently took the latest Maserati Quattroporte for a spin around Dubai.

Another member of our editorial team went a little further: Elma Bartholomew headed to Salalah to discover the tropical charms of this Arabian paradise.

In this issue we also take a look at Far Eastern cuisine options in the Kingdom, which sees a new entrant to the local market with the opening of PF Chang’s in Bahrain City Centre last month. And, just in case you’re not sure of your way around the Kingdom to find these culinary venues, we talk to an enterprising new company, Arteleus, that’s working with GPS technology to resolve such issues.

So, here’s to another month to enjoy the great way of life the Kingdom has to offer!

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

June 2013 ~ Vol. 17 ~ Issue 6 www.bahrainthismonth.com

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A Bear Attraction Family Fun

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To find out how to use these, read page 148. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Featured This Month:

Italy in Bahrain | Far Eastern Cuisine | Gadgets For Summer HAPPENINGS ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV

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GulfBID 2013 Opening His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa opened the 7th GulfBID 2013 exhibition last month. Ministers, diplomats, representatives of show organisers Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (HCE) and business leaders attended the opening that was held at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre.

The event also featured the opening of the Gulf Property Show and the Gulf Interiors Exhibition

His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa opens the expo in the presence of ministers and officials

Hassan, Mohammed, Abdul Hussain Dawani & Ebrahim Al Ameer

HE Shaikh Daij bin Salman bin Daij Al Khalifa & Munther

Mazin Al Umran, Raed & Abdulaziz

Harsha, Yogesh & Urvashi

Othman, Jaffer & Abdul

Hisham & Savio

Azra, Aziz, Moiz & Mohammed

Nadia, Dr Jalil, Ayoob, Hakeem, Mazin & Abdul Hamid

8 June 2013

Aziz

Hamza, Fawaz & Ahmed

Raymond Nakfour, Ronnie Middleton, George Middleton & HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador

HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador & Nancy

Noora & Noor

Raj & Yagna

Reem & Zainab

Najeeb & Badie

Diana & Adel

Mohammed & Vanessa

Mohammed, Muhammed & Vignesh

Nada

Gerlyn, Sadiq & Lecs

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American Independence Day Celebrations HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador & Bonnie Krajeski hosted a reception to celebrate the 237th Anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America. HE Shaikh Ahmed bin Ateyatala Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Follow-up Affairs, HE Sameera Rajab, Minister of State for Information Affairs, HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Communications Affairs, members of the diplomatic corps & VIP guests attended the event held at the Al Ghazal Ballroom, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa

Bonnie & HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador

Ahmed Jawahery, Nabeel Ajoor, HE Shaikh Ahmed bin Ateyatala Al Khalifa, Nasser Alarayed & Dr Mazin Juma

Admiral Millar, Bonnie & HE Thomas Krajeski, & HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Capital Governor

Ebrahim Al Kooheji & HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

HE Thomas Krajeski, Bonnie Krajeski, HE Sameera Rajab & HE Shaikh Ahmed bin Ateyatala Al Khalifa cut the celebratory cake, watched by members of the diplomatic corps

Khalid Kanoo & HE Shaikh Hisham

Joon Ha, Meeji & Jenny

Paul, George, Anne & Sharon

10 June 2013

Larry & Rossana

Kelly & Elizabeth

Dr Faisal & Dr Julianna

Essam Al Jassim, Shaikh Khalifa Al Khalifa & HE Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa

Sumaya, Justin, Anna & Julia

Gary & Nicola

Tariq, Betsy & Ken

Peter Grohmann & HE Sameera Rajab

Tony, Bill, Nicky & Khalid Al Zayani

Hassan & Reem

Ethan & Shawon

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American Independence Day Celebrations

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Mohammed Al Kooheji & Nawaf

Hassan & Rasha

Danny, Susie & Darren

Scott, Bill & Aylin

Waseem, Asma, Sarah & Rich

Tom, Josh, Kay & Chris

Mario, Jason, Lester & Donald

Anood & Zayed

12 June 2013

Mahmoud, Dani & Laya

Taylor & Dee

Dr Kaur, Dr Singh, Margrita & Primrose

Faye, Zeina Testot, Adnan, George, Anne & HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador

Huda, Hameed & Naheed

Eric, Tracy & Manu

Faten & Ammar

Steve, Rose & Armi

Ameena, Samad, Najeeb & Naseema

Lepa, Maria, Carolyn, Caitlin & Tisha

Hala & Chris

Hana & Ali

Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Jawad Y. Al Hawaj

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Dutch Accession Day Reception A reception was held to mark the abdication of Holland's Queen Beatrix and the appointment of her replacement King Willem Alexander. The event was attended by HE Ghanim bin Fadel Al Buanien, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, HE Nicolaas Beets, Dutch Ambassador to Kuwait, acting Honorary Consul Jaap W Vaandrager, top government officials, diplomats and VIPs. The reception was held at the Bahrain Conference Centre, Crowne Plaza Hotel

HE Nicolaas Beets & HE Ghanim bin Fadhel Al Buanien

HE Nicolaas Beets, HE Ghanim bin Fadhel Al Buanien & HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador cut the cake

Lulwa, Nabeel Ajoor, Zeenat & Bob

Qutub, HE Nicolaas Beets & Uzma

Bonnie, Gernot & Tomoko

14 June 2013

Priya & Wendy

Saad, Arif & May

Farah, Henry & Eva

Jaap & Ebrahim Al Kooheji

Hannah, Wendy & Celine

Jaap, Sahar Juma, Faisal Kanoo & HE Nicolaas Beets

Humbert, Silvia, Nabeel Ajoor, Ahmed Bin Hindi & Deena Al Mannai

Deena, Muneera & Abeer

Jaap Vaandrager & HE Nicolaas Beets

Mehdi

Suzy & Hala

Ahmed

Pascal with Wendy Vaandrager

Riyad

Christophe

Zeenat Dawani

Isa Al Wazzan

Dr Ali

Mahmood Najem

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Bahrain Raft Race For Charity 2013 The annual Charity Raft Race organised by the Rotary Club of Salmaniya was held at the Al Bander Hotel & Resort, Sitra. Thirty-four teams competed in the annual Raft Race, organised by the Rotary Club of Salmaniya at Al Bander Hotel and Resort in Sitra, cheered on by more than 1,000 spectators and raised around BD34,000. The money raised at the event will be used raise awareness about childhood obesity in Bahrain and how to tackle it

Ameera, Mohammed, Sebahat, Nada & Zuhair

Monali, Priti, Ashmitha & Aarti

Ameera, Sebahat & Nada

Ali, Mariam, Amal & Hussain

Khalifa, Albin Jassim & Fahad

Khalil, Hani, Fahad, Khalid & Mohammed

Saleha, Amin, Ammar & Clement

One of the teams in action

16 June 2013

Hameed & Patrick

Osama, Mohammed & Mansoori

Paresh & Andrew

Khalil, Ahmed, Mohammed & Sharif

Ahmed, Mahmood & Abdulla

Nabeel & Nedhal

Salwa, Sadaf & Hani

Rodolphe & Jano

Osama

Waleed

Kristen

Adam & Nikki

Raed & Wael

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Bahrain Japan Business & Friendship Society Dinner To commemorate the visit of His Majesty King Hamad to Toyko and to celebrate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bahrain & Japan, the Bahrain Japan Business & Friendship Society (BJBFS) hosted a dinner at the Al Nakheel Ballroom, The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa. The society also welcomed its counterpart The Japan Bahrain Economic Cooperation Association (JBECA) on its first ever visit to the kingdom

Khalifa Rumaihi, HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, Industry and Commerce Minister & Nasser Alarayedh

Mohammed Al Mannai, HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Capital Governor, Ahmed Jawahery, Kishore, Babu & Anoop Kewalram

Abdulrahman Jawahery & Khalid Kanoo

Abdulrahman & Faisal Juma

Khulood, Khulood, Deema & Nawal

Dr Abdelgadir & Wisal

18 June 2013

Reema & Jihan Alarayedh

Yousif & Dr Amal

Zuheir & Fadel

Noura, Fatima & Raeda

Sunita & Bob

Tosin & Farah

Nancy

Miss Yuki, Mr Kimura & Mr Morinaga

Dr Ebtisam & Dr Hanan

Dr. Mohammed Al Khozai, Dr Raid, Dr Abdulla, Khalifa Rumaihi & Mr Marhoom

Hamad Al Mahmeed & Khalid Al Zayani

Khadem, Dr Dhafer Al Umran & HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador,

Saki Kosugi

Abdulhussain Dawani & Ebrahim Al Ameer

Nabeel Ajoor & HE Shaikh Hisham

Roya & Karina

Nawaf Al Zayani

Shigehisa Yoshihiro

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French Embassy & Sofitel Reception The French Embassy in association with the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa hosted a reception last month for a number of guests at the hotel's Lagoon outlet. HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador and his wife Zeina Testot attended the event along with a number of diplomats and dignitaries

HE Christian & Zeina Testot

Zeina Testot, Shaikha Hind & HE Christian Testot

HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, HE Christian Testot, HE Mohammed Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador, Zeina Testot, Jassim Al Zayani & Romina Vecchi

Tomoko, Majeeda,Vicky, Mala, Zeina, Anne, Karin, Romina & Meeji

20 June 2013

HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador & Tomoko Sumi

Christophe, Laurence, Mala Kumar, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, Zeina & HE Christian Testot

Rodolphe & Frederic

Waleed Kanoo & George

Alessandra, Huda & Liliane

Catherine, Elizabeth & Zeina

Bassim Al Saie & Francois

Vincent & Ghada

Majeed, Jassim Al Zayani & Robert

Cristian & Antonina

Jean & Devais

Karin & Francois

Damien, Vincent & Philippe

Moosa, Mahmood & Jassim

Rashid Fakhro, Bahia, Fawzia & Huda

Alain

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happeningsthismonth When? June 5-7 | Event? Theatre production | Venue? Cultural Hall

A Bear Attraction A smash-hit international tour is making a pit stop on our island for a show that will blow you away! Primarily for children, it’s still great fun for adults as well.

Music, laughter, songs, rhythms, rhymes and repetitions, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt will be an occasion for puppetry, paint, water, mud and a bear!

Theatre director Sally Cookson’s hugely inventive production, set to Benji Bower’s quirky musical score, is a mischievous celebration of play. It utilises everyday objects and materials to capture the imagination and catapult young audiences into the world of Michael Rosen and illustrator Helen Oxenbury’s muchloved picture book.

Join the intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog

Also this month

through the swishy-swashy grass, the splashy-splashy river and the squelchy mud, in search of a bear. Expect plenty of funfilled interaction and a few surprises along the way.

“This production takes everyone on the journey; not under, not over, oh no, through it. All in a funny, exuberant and loving way. It’s a show full of laughter, music, silliness and thrills that, I promise you, will excite and delight all young children. This is a must-go show,” says Michael Rosen.

The show is presented by KW&NB and choreographed by a critically acclaimed production team that includes designer Katie Sykes, and music and lyrics by Bower. The lighting is taken care of by Tony Simpson, the sound is handled by Jason Barnes and Marc Parrett is the puppet designer.

The cast features Duncan Foster as the dad, who created the character and has been playing it since the show began. He is even aiming to surpass Yul Brynner’s record of 4,600 performances of The King and I! The daughter is played by Rowena Lennon, son by Gareth Warren and the dog/musician

by Ben Harrison. The show will also introduce Gavin Swift.

Rosen’s multi-award winning bestselling book has sold over 3.5 million copies and was first published in 1989. Cookson is reputed as one of the most prolific creators of live family theatre.

Her projects this year include Julia Donaldson’s Tiddler, a premiere of Varmints at Sadlers’ Wells and The Boy Who Cried Wolf at Bristol Old Vic. Get your tickets from Hava Java Café, inside Manazel, and Alosra supermarkets in the Saar, Amwaj and Riffa Palms. E Call 39 607-489.

26 x Arts & Culture - 30 x Clubs & Societies - 32 x Teens & Kids - 34 x Sports & Recreation

www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? June 1 Event? Dance show Venue: Bahrain National Theatre Experience the power of flamenco with the world reputed Carmen Aida Gomez.

E Visit www.virginmegastore.me.

When? June1-5 Event? Art exhibition Venue: St Christopher’s School Catch the island’s talented youth at the school’s annual art exhibition.

E Call 17 788-101.

When? June 1-27 Event? Shopping festival Venue: BECA Michael Arcega focuses on the polyglot culture of Bahrain in his latest exhibition.

E Call 17 836-199.

When? June 1-July 1 Event? Photography showcase Venue: Moda Mall An art gallery will display 40 photographs at the mall’s Fashion Court.

E Visit www.modabwtc.com.

When? June 1-July 27 Event? Shopping festival Venue: BECA Get ready for a month of shopping, raffle draws and a horde of games.

E Call 17 713-716.

June 2013 23

happeningsthismonth Language Reflections Catch Michael Arcega’s exhibition at Al Riwaq Art Space this month titled Codeswitching. Michael will focus on the polyglot culture of Bahrain, investigating code switching, translations and mistranslations through the production of contemporary art works. The pieces will be in the form of sculpture, installation, videos, prints and water colours.

“Code-switching is a linguistic term that describes the switching from one language to another, whether it’s from Arabic to English or from sculpture to painting,” says the artist.

Michael’s work revolves largely around language, directly informed by research, material significance and the format of jokes. His subject matter deals with socio-political circumstances where power relations are unbalanced.

His work has been exhibited at venues including the Berkeley Art Museum, the Museum of Craft and Folk Art and the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art. The exhibition will run until June 27.

E Call 17 836-199.

Bridging the Gap AIESEC Bahrain’s latest initiative is set to familiarise individuals from around the world with our little island. Colours of Bahrain will be a six-week programme held throughout June and July; it will include a number of events and activities. Organisers plan on taking the visiting internationals to a number of tourist sites around the Kingdom.

“Our output from this project will be an event that will showcase our internationals displaying their traditions and cultures on one side and us displaying the Bahraini culture on the other. All this would be organised in the form of a global village, which we hope to launch before Ramadan,” says Colours of Bahrain OCVP Mustafa Taher. E Call 17 358-819.

Dance the Night Away On June 1, indulge in a night of flamenco dance with the internationally reputed Carmen Aida Gomez. The classical storyline of Carmen is performed by the engaging Spanish female flamenco dancer. She boasts a background of dancing since the age of 12 and is set to hit the National Theatre for an unforgettable event accompanied by her performing band.

The audience will get to experience the power of flamenco with the old epic story of Carmen in which it transforms into a dance fest full of life, energy and love.

E Visit www.moc.gov.bh.

Map of Bahrain represented by handmade drawings

24 June 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsartsculture When? June 15-29 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Hue Food Lounge Art

Finding A Connection A lover of experimentation, an artist from Goa puts down his camera and picks up a paintbrush for his latest exhibition to be held later this month.

A daring departure from his usual photo-based works, Arthur D’Souza’s new collection is not for the fainthearted. Titled WhatsInaName, each eerie piece in the collection is untitled, leaving the viewer free to deduce their own meaning.

“If I put in a name, I lead people to a certain idea; if I don’t, they can see whatever they wish to see. I rather encourage the viewer to create a personal interpretation based on their own experiences,” explains Arthur.

He fuses plastic and acrylic paint on wood and in the process creates tactile art that is abstract and multi-dimensional. The collection reflects a living image. It is esoteric, engaging you in new ways each time you visit the work, stimulating the imagination, while capturing energetic expressions from a

26 June 2013

different plane. As Bahrain This Month got a sneak peak into the collection to be displayed, we discovered a viewing tip.

Look at the art from a smartphone camera and the images jump out — a trick that Arthur accidentally uncovered.

The transition from one piece to another is complementary; the flow is seamless without blending. The compilation as a whole is mystical, balanced and transitive. The abstract expression that is a break from the usual style of the artist has allowed him a free rein to express himself without the restrictions of a pre-defined subject imposed by photography.

“The difference is that my first technique was very technical and structured. I knew what my end result was going to be from the get-go. In my new collection, the work evolves as it goes. As I start working I discover things within it,” he says.

However, he keeps to his layering technique; although, this time, he uses multiple layers of paint and plastic to achieve the multi-dimensional look reminiscent of his previous work.

Whether it is his desire to be free of the confines of rigidity based on experience or the need to express himself through unfettered creativity, the new artworks offer a freshness that encourages discussion in a visually engaging manner. A piece that stands out is the abstract representation of breast cancer; the funds from this item will go towards a local charity that works for the cause.

Having studied applied arts and majored in photography, Arthur has applied his multi-media skills to developing creative communication solutions. He was in advertising before becoming a full-time artist in 2007, when the urge to explore his full potential became immense. A resident of Bahrain for 26 years, he has developed a unique art form using photography, paper and glass. E Call 39 623-381.

National Treasure When? Throughout June Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum E visit www.moc.gov.bh.

For a unique cultural experience, don’t miss the 4th Annual GCC Archaeology Exhibition that will be running to the end of this month. Held at Bahrain National Museum, this year’s showcase will shed light on the development of cities from the human, historical and environmental perspectives. The exhibition displays visual urban development and growth through relics; some dating back several millennia before the Islamic period. The first settlements throughout the centuries will be focused on, with all their different cultural and social ramifications. It will also give a detailed picture of the controversy between the nomad Bedouin life style and the huge urban development of the Arabian Gulf region.

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Vive La Musique!

Tune in to the Manama Singers as they celebrate the magical gift of music this month, with a French twist.

When? June 21 Event? La Fete de la Musique Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa La Fete de la Musique, or World Music Day, is commemorated every year on June 21. The practice originated in France in 1982 but has since grown into an international phenomenon celebrated in more than 460 cities in 110 countries worldwide.

The purpose is to promote music through amateur and professional musicians, and through concerts that are accessible to the public. “It is wonderful opportunity to unite the musicians of Bahrain for World Music Day and share our gift of music with the local community,” said Deborah Monsen, musical director of the Manama Singers.

The evening’s programme will include rousing selections from Bizet’s Carmen and a medley of songs from Les Miserables. A children’s choir, selected by auditions at local schools, will perform one of the opera’s best known songs, Chorus of the Street Children. The audience will also be treated to Manama Singers soloists for famous pieces such as Habenera, the Flower Song, and the Gypsy Song.

The popular music from Les Miserables will feature Manama Singers and guest soloists from the GCC, as well local teenagers who be joining the choir for the event.

The Manama Singers last worked with a French theme five years ago for their concert, Viva Opera, when, coincidentally,

28 June 2013

they also sang a selection of pieces from Carmen.

“Hopefully this will turn into an annual event for the Manama Singers and the Sofitel hotel, the venue for the concert” says Michael Keates, chairman of Manama Singers.

Timeless music The thespians began their journey back in the early 1970s, when a small group of enthusiastic singers got together to fill the gap left by the Elizabethan Singers, Juffair Singers and Muharraq Choral Society, who all departed the Kingdom after the withdrawal of British Forces in 1971.

“In those days, the group would rehearse at the old British Council, which is now part of the British Embassy, and performed their concerts wherever they could find a willing host,” notes Mike.

“Most of the time events would be at the, then, Hilton Hotel and we’re pleased to say that this relationship is still very much alive. We’ve performed at the Golden Tulip three times in the last 18 months.”

The society is now 40 years old and has grown into a group of highly proficient choristers, performing regularly to audiences of several hundred, and at one concert, Carmina Burana in May 2007, to over 1,000 people.

“Despite the upheavals of expatriate life, with people coming and going all the time, the Manama Singers is a group of likeminded individuals who love to sing; it’s what keeps us going,” Mike says.

E Call 17 636-363.

Laugh it Off! When? June 5-6 Event? Comedy night Venue? British Club and InterContinental Regency E Call 36 663-509.

Chuckle Club’s June shows feature international comedy legends Alan Francis, Iain Stirling and Rob Deering. Scottish actor and comedian Alan Francis won Channel 4’s coveted So You Think You’re Funny in 1991. Since then his reputation has grown as a writer, stand-up and actor.

Stirling started stand-up whilst in his final year of Law at Edinburgh University, a year which saw him make the final of both the Paramount Funniest Student and Chortle Student Comedian of the Year competitions. Deering can be spotted at clubs, theatres, TV, radio and festivals throughout

the known world. The shows start at 8pm and tickets are prices at BD15 for each night.

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happeningskidsteens When? June 14 | Event? Competition | Venue? British School of Bahrain

Poetry in Motion If you, like the rest of the world, consider gymnastics a beautiful sport, then mark your calendars as it takes centre stage this month.

Paving the way for what is otherwise a less-than-popular sport in the Kingdom, the British School of Bahrain (BSB) hosts the country’s first-ever gymnastics competition. With the school’s growing Gymnastics Academy, the sport is gaining momentum and it looks like it is here to stay.

Aimed specifically at boys and girls under the age of 12, the competition will give gymnasts the chance to show their skills while they compete in a floor routine, on the vault and on the trampette.

The competition is split into two categories: novice and intermediate. Within these categories, gymnasts are split into different age groups of four to five years, five to seven years, seven to nine years, and nine years and above. Within each age category, boys and girls will be split into separate groups.

The event is expected to bring in over 100 participants. The judging panel features experienced coaches from the BSB and CHAOSS, a local gymnastics club.

Medals will be awarded for first, second and third places on floor, vault and mini-tramp in each age group for boys and girls.

The fourth, fifth and sixth positions will receive a certificate.

Trophies will be awarded to the overall boy and girl winner in each round.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

“First and foremost, this event will be a fantastic opportunity for gymnasts to experience a competitive environment and show off their fabulous skills in this sport. In addition, we hope it will raise the profile of The Gymnastics Academy, as well as the overall status of gymnastics in the country,” explains organiser Matthew Brant.

As with any new endeavour, embarking on a first-of-its-kind event came with no shortage of obstacles. Fortunately, the academy received support from CHAOSS in terms of sponsorship and loaning of equipment.

“Until very recently there was only one major gymnastics club in Bahrain. If this is compared to the number of successful tennis or dance clubs on the island, for example, it is easy to see how much potential there is for gymnastics to be developed within the Kingdom.

Inter-Gulf competitions are aimed at more elite gymnasts. We wanted to bridge the gap and create an event which is for gymnasts who perhaps haven’t been training as long or who are not yet ready for international competitions,” he continues.

The academy was founded in 2012 and the enthusiasm of the children is self-evident.

Keep your eyes and ears open during the festive season as the team prepares to put on displays and performances at a number of local events.

E Call 38 305-226.

Last Stroke When? June 7 Event? Swimming championship Venue? St Christopher’s School E Call 17 598-432.

Mark your calendars as this month sees the island’s young swimmers complete in one of the Kingdom’s biggest swim meets.

The Open Swimming Championships 2013 is hosted by St Christopher’s School and will be grouped under kids of age eight and under, nine to 10, 11 to 12, 13 to 14 and 15 to18.

Participants will compete in freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly and individual medley categories with a BD2 charge fee per individual event. Medals will be awarded for first, second and third places with a cup for the overall point winner for boys and girls in each age group.

June 2013 31

happeningssportsrecreation When? June 18-29 | Event? The Bahrain Open Club Championship | Venue? Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam

Shuttle Schemers Beat the summer heat this month with a thrilling badminton tournament. The Bahrain Badminton and Squash Federation brings together the best players in the region.

Twenty-four teams from across the GCC are set to go head-tohead for top honours. Each squad consists of seven men and one woman, where the groups will be divided into three levels depending on the standard of their game. Eight teams each will take part in the first, second and third levels.

“All teams in each level will be divided into two pools of four, with each team playing each other. One game comprises five matches — one men’s singles, three men’s doubles and one mixed doubles. The top two winners from each pool will qualify for the semi-final,” explains organiser Ashley George of the Bahrain Badminton and Squash Federation (BBSF).

The winning team in level one will be awarded a cash prize of BD1,000, while runners up will be awarded BD500. In levels two and three, the top team will be awarded BD250 and the runners up BD100. Apart from these rewards, all participants in the winning and runner-up teams will receive individual trophies.

Watching over In a bid to promote the sport, this month will also see a badminton umpire course to be held alongside the championship. Sudhakar Vemuri will conduct the course to be

www.bahrainthismonth.com

held from June 23- 26.

He is a Badminton World Federation (BWF) certificated umpire, Badminton Asia Confederation certificated referee and a member of the BWF Umpire Assessment panel. The participants of the course will undergo a practical test during the last three days of the championship, by officiating in the matches.

“The umpires who pass the tests will be awarded the Bahrain National Umpire Certificate. Some of them may be invited to officiate in the Bahrain International Series and Bahrain International Challenge tournaments, which are scheduled to be held in October or November,” continues Ashley. The organiser explains that the primary aim of the tournament is to bring more players into the game. “The best players in the region are all expected to participate in this event and this will be a good opportunity to witness good quality badminton. We hope that many of the people who come to watch the games will take up the sport,” he says.

BBSF was established in 1981 and has since then acted as a major driving force behind the growth of badminton and squash in the Kingdom. Among the GCC nations, a national badminton federation affiliated to the Badminton World Federation exists only in Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar.

The country has over the years produced local Bahraini players who have excelled at the regional level. The Kingdom’s current national champion is Jaffer Ebrahim, one of the top players in the region. E Call 36 500-103.

Join the Club When? Throughout June Event? Summer activities Venue? Royal Golf Club E Call 17 750-777.

Don’t miss another exciting month of Royal Golf Club’s roundup of sporting events. First up is the TaylorMade Summer Open that will be held in a stable ford format on June 21. June 25 will bring out the island’s best golfers for the open-to-all VIVA Fourball League.

To wind down your weekend, the Wee Monty Family Day will be held every Saturday for only BD15 per adult while kids play for free.

Another weekly activity is the A&E Monday Madness Night Golf Series that will see a different format each week as well as the Ecco Monday Stableford both held every Monday.

June 2013 33

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Paul New Menu Lunch Paul Cafe at the Bahrain City Centre hosted a lunch last month for a number of guests to introduce the Cafe's new menu

Allan, Ellie, Michael, Farid & Joe

Ellie, Bassil, Victoria, Dalia & Farid

Joe, Dalia, Farid & Ellie

George, Farid, Ellie, Fareheen, Michael, Dalia, Marise & Randa

Honda Civic 2013 Launch National Motor Company (NMC) sole dealers for Honda in the kingdom held a launch for the all-new 2013 Honda Civic at the Honda Car Showroom in Sitra

Jameel, Stephanie, Simon, Abdulla, Ghassan & Natalia with the 2013 Honda Civic

Simon, Abdulla & Jameel address the media

Waleed, Natalia & Ghassan

Farheen, Fadhel & Hilary

Stephanie

Cookbook Launch A launch was held for the cookbook published

by Red House Marketing at the LuLu Hypermarket in Hidd by HE Nicolaas Beets, Netherlands Ambassador to the State of Kuwait

HE Nicolaas Beets launches the cookbook with Farheen from Red House Marketing

Ruan, Marlais, Jody, Farheen Stella & Walt

34 June 2013

Khaleem & Sharif

Farheen, Ammar & Stella

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DHL Netball League Awards Night The DHL Netball League Awards Night was held at the K Hotel in Juffair last month.

Awards were handed out to both teams and individual players on the night

Jo, Stewart & Helen

Sarah, Puna, Helen & Natalie

Stewart & Khulood

Melinda, Nadia, Khulood & Cassandra

Helen, Chris, Ben & Kate

Tommy, Stef, Cliff, Emma, Matt & Alex

Victoria & Todd

Hun, Adele & Kevin

Rose & Rama

Adele, Helen & Kirsty

Nathan & Maya

Chaine Des Rottiseurs Diner Amical The Chaine Des Rotisseurs hosted a Italian Spring themed diner amical for members and guests at the Primavera Restaurant, Ritz Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa

Henry, Khalid Almoayed, Mandeleine, Kaoru & Mark

Ching & Bel

David & Aymen

Alexia & Nicolas

Geraldine & Rosemary

36 June 2013

Khalid, HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador, Maria, Chef Guy & Mark

Abdulrahman & Dana

Cleopatra, Vasilios & Maria

Jose

Chris

Johanne

Liz & Dr Erika

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Indian Food Festival At Sofitel A dinner reception was held to mark the launch of the week-long Indian food festival which was held at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa. The inaugural dinner hosted by the hotel, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador and Mala Kumar, was attended by a number of diplomats, officials and special guests. The hotel flew in an Indian chef from Mumbai for the event that was held at the hotel's Saraya Restaurant

Shanthram & Ashalatha Shetty with Bonnie & HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador

Shahrazad, Liliane, Lynne, Salwa & Iro

Philippe & Rocio

Elma & Debbie

Vijit & Elma

Ahmed & Homa

Indian dancers at the event

38 June 2013

Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Nilu Kapoor, Mala Kumar, Shaikha Maram & Kanika Sabberwal

Shaikha Hind with Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Joon Ha, Jenny & Meeji

Shantharam, Chef Bhajohari Mahto & Anne

HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador & Zeina Testot

Dr Jihan & Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Bonnie, Rupert & Bridget

Fares

Charbel, 2nd from left, with staff members

Salwa, Wahid, Shahrazad & Abdulrahman Juma

Karina & Fawzia

Roshini, Kanika & Sharon

Nick, Charlie & George

Manu

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VIVA Manchester United Soccer Schools 2013 Tournament & Try Outs The VIVA Manchester United Soccer School (MUSS) tournament & try-outs was held in Bahrain for the third season at Soccer City in Saar last month, to give talented male and female footballers in Bahrain the tools and resources to progress to the next level of their football career. Out of over 300 players that participated from 32 registered football teams of under-15 male and female players, 22 of them emerged as winners after being evaluated on their overall performance in the tournament which included their technical ability coupled with leadership qualities and physical attributes. The winners, 18 boys and 4 girls, will will travel to the home of football and train under official Manchester United coaches in the Manchester United Soccer School (MUSS)

Mohammed, Mohammed & Saleh

Shaikh Zeyad & Hamad

Nood, Georgia, Leena & Kia

Palesa, Ola, Nourhan & Buthaina

The Indian School team

Faisal, Essam & Majid

Abdulla & Amir

Lami, Chinnaswamy & Ben

Mohammed & Jassim

Karla, Rahul & Pooja

Godfrey

Mohammed & Abeer

Sordyd, Land & Caitlin

Four girls players, part of the 22 chosen winners of VIVA MUSS 2013 with Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, VIVA CEO, 4th from left, & MU Foundation coaches

Bruce, Tom & Susie

Four boys players, part of the 22 chosen winners of VIVA MUSS 2013 with Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, VIVA CEO & MU Foundation coaches

Lauren, Nicole, Sophie & Karen

40 June 2013

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Tadayon's Garden Party Hussain and Rashida Tadayon hosted a 'Musical Soiree' in their garden, for a number of their friends.

Music was provided by Jojo on the keyboards

Hussain Tadayon, Rashida Tadayon, HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, Industry & Commerce Minister, Dr Adnan Bseisu & HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

HE Chilman Arisman, Indonesian Ambassador & Jojo

Ridzuan, Khalil, Abdul Hussain & Adnan

Jean & Ratna

Dina & Marina

Alima & Shohreh

HE Paul Hsu, Taiwan Trade Commissioner, HE Vichai Varasirakul, Thai Ambassador, Rashida, Shuba & Raj Damani

Dr Mohammad, Rashida & Bahia

Rashida, George & Meher

Peter & Bijan

George, Faye & Hussain

Pauline & Anita

Adelaide & Henny

Rory

Jane, Angela & Mala

Dublin Comedy Night It was a fun night of laughter at the Dublin in the Ramee Palace Juffair when the outlet hosted Comedyvaganza, featuring international comedians Geoff Boyz & Luke Benson

Tarryn, Jason & Natasha

42 June 2013

Luke Benson

Jack & Sarah

Bobby, Ahmed & Mohammed

Marie-Eve & Bryan

Thomas

Cassie & Lindsay

Raj Kumar

Janelle & Sparkle

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Shantharam Shetty Birthday Party The management & staff of the Ramee Group of Hotel's held a birthday party for Shantharam Shetty, group general manager last month.

The party was held at Warlber, Ramee Baisan Hotel

Dheeptha, Shantharam & Ashalatha Shetty

Dheeptha, Shantharam & Ashalatha cut the cake

Rana, Thomas & Salvatore

Shantharam with Metropolition Hotel staff

Management staff raising a toast to Shantharam

Jeejo, Ozzy, Chef Wilfred, Naveen & Sujith

Shantharam with Windsor Tower Hotel staff

Anto, Chef Luc, Shantharam & Nicolas

Shantharam & Nasser with executive staff

Shantharam with managers & staff of The Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, the group's 5 star hotel

44 June 2013

Neil, Bryan & Shantharam

Sharika, Sagarika, Sara, Nigama & Suman

Naveen & Antony

Ratnakar, Ashok & Hemant

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“Who Else Wants To Lose 20 Kg and 38 Inches of Fat?” “ I lost 20 kg and 38 inches of fat at the DreamBody Centre.

It gave me back my DreamBody!”

Isa Rashid lost 20 Kg and 38 inches of at the DreamBody Centre! He is so happy!

“Thanks to the DreamBody Centre (DBC) I feel healthy and energetic, I feel much better than before. There was a time I could not fit in normal clothes. Ready made clothes were like a dream come true to me but now I can wear these clothes.

I fit in jeans now. I have gone from Big & Tall to Lee/ Wrangler this feels so good!

“I used to be afraid of change, I remember when I was in Paris I felt so embarrassed that I would never wear any proper clothes. That's when I took the decision to change. Now my friends ask me, ‘Where is your other half?’ It feels so good to hear that! “23 Minutes is more than enough in a day for a workout. I normally get so busy with work, but this is just so amazing. I want to thank DreamBody Centre for making this possible for me and especially want to thank Suhail [DBC Founder] for this my regard's to him. I look forward to losing more.”

Just like Isa, you can get your DreamBody too!

The DreamBody Centre (DBC) works through the magic of circuit training. Unlike gyms, where you have to spend a long time using weights, and then a long time doing cardio, at the DBC you do resistance and cardio training together.

This is done on special machines that utilise hydraulic pumps, not weights. The machines are super easy to use, and the whole work out lasts just 23 minutes! You’ll also get a FREE copy of our exclusive weight loss book, the DreamBody Eating Plan, which will make it even easier to burn off your excess fat.

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Bahrain Science Centre Official Opening Her Highness Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, wife of His Highness Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamed Al Khalifa officially opened the Bahrain Science Centre, which falls under the directorate of Bahrain's Ministry of Social Development. The centre in Isa Town has hosted over 25,000 visitors since it's soft launch from all walks of life that include students, teachers, intellectual societies and general public. HE Dr Fatima Al Balooshi, Minister of Social Development also attended the opening

Ludo Verheyen

Afrah & Shereen

Mr Ghazi, Abdulla & Khalid

HH Shaikha Hessa tours the centre

HE Dr Fatima Al Balooshi & Khalid Ishaq

Alia, Fatima, Eman, Amna & Hafsa

Shaqi, Khadeeja, Ayesha, Fatima & Hiba

Mohammed & Khalid

Ebrahim Al Hadi

Ayesha Al Said & Fatima Mahmood

Mercure Turkish Food Festival Launch Dinner The Mercure Grand Hotel in Seef District hosted a dinner to mark the launch of the hotel's Turkish Food Festival. The dinner was held at the hotel's Neyran Restaurant last month

Ahmed, Yasser & Tamer

HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador, HE Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al Sabah, Kuwaiti Ambassador & Ali

Ahmed, Yasser, Begum, Mrs Galkiuk, Tolga, Mustafa & Atif

Nuran, Gulen & Oya

46 June 2013

Zeina Testot & Hinichetti Andre

Merve, Sinem, Nisan & Oyku

Fawzia & Rakia

Burak & Gizem

Zena

Ahmed

Mirna

Ekaterina & Kiki

www.bahrainthismonth.com

P.O. Box: 233, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T: +973 17 22 77 70 | F: +973 17 22 66 55 e-mail: roubens@batelco.com.bh

spotlightthismonth

Transforming Lives simi kamboj Confronted by the sight of grinding poverty, most of us tend to look away. This teenager, though, thought of empowerment and what she could do to help.

Celine Vaandrager

48 June 2013

Many would argue that at 16, Celine Vaandrager is too young to be a philanthropist. The Year 11 student at St Christopher’s School has been active in community service for some years, but recently she spent her Easter break touring schools in Mumbai and Pune slums to experience firsthand the lives of underprivileged children in urban India.

Celine, however, is different from Westerners who habitually pack a few hours of poverty tourism into their Indian itinerary.

She carried with her 65 kilos of schoolbooks, stuffed toys and BD1,300 cash which she raised in Bahrain to assist a primary school she had set her sights on in Pune.

“A majority of the children at Mahadji Shinde School come from slums; 60 per cent are raised by a single parent and 10 per cent are orphans. Often, their only incentive is the midday meal provided at school. Unless these children get an education, their future is lost,” she says.

Celine’s mission was to sponsor an English teacher, which the school couldn’t afford, and she was able to secure one, paying BD516 towards her annual salary.

The teenager says she found inspiration from her grandfather who, at 76, is actively involved in his businesses as well as community welfare projects in India. Once she had identified the school she wanted to support, Celine started a Facebook page and invited 100 people to contribute money or books, declaring that she wanted nothing else for her 16th birthday.

The response was overwhelming.

“For us, BD516 was a small amount, but it will have an impact on the lives of these 44 children. Knowledge of English and computer skills is all they need to find employment in their country,” she says.

This is only the beginning for Celine, as she has set herself a higher personal goal. She aims to build a school near Pune before she turns 18; her grandfather is already building a school of his own in India and the teenager hopes to have her project ready by then.

Celine’s father, the Dutch Honorary Consul in Bahrain, Jaap Vaandrager, is supportive of her ideals but advises that she should prioritise her goals and manage her time well.

The first step is to formally register her charity, No Nation Without Education, and open a bank account exclusively devoted to this charity.

“We want to be very transparent in raising and spending the funds. We’ve heard too many stories of NGO money being diverted into other activities,” notes Jaap.

Celine will have to race against time to realise her ambition, but people who’ve heard of her project are showing support. She’s already received a donation of €1,000 from a well-wisher in Holland.

“My grandfather is old, but he’s never tired. At my age, I too hope I can inspire some people to make a contribution. Every little gesture will count,” she says.

To make a contribution visit www.nonationwithouteducation.org.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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businessthismonth When? June 18-19 | Event? Customer excellence conference | Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain Hotel

Building a Service Culture SIMI KAMBOJ Globalisation has not only made the world smaller but also intensely competitive. This business conference looks at reviving the work ethic through customercentric philosophy.

The 2nd GCC Annual Customer Excellence Conference trains the spotlight on meeting customer expectations, an important concept that might just be the differentiator between business success and failure.

Dr Suhail Jouaneh, a customer care and work ethic expert from Jordan and the main speaker at the event, feels that any business that is not customer-driven is doomed to fail.

“It’s the customer who draws the map of the business. Many organisations focus on competition, yet we need to remember that it’s the customer who pays our cheque and not the competitor. We need to direct our attention to our customer simply and mainly,” he says.

The expert will dwell extensively on the importance of cultivating the right attitude and work ethic, and its impact on customer care. For starters, he believes individual responsibility is very important.

“We need to assume responsibility of our actions, overcome the negative aspects of culture and work on ourselves with a determination to change. We need to ‘feel’ deep in our hearts that we exist in the business because our customers allowed us.”

Also this month

For those who argue that the Arab world is in need of Japan’s work ethic, Dr Jouaneh says the region would do well to build on the Arab culture, with its underlying ethos of generosity and hospitality, rather than copy any foreign work ethic.

“The way we welcome our guests is outstanding. This should be the solid base of hospitality for customers today. So it’s okay to say the customer is king, but let’s treat our customers as we treat kings.”

The human factor The quality of human capital is an important factor in the delivery of customer service and for the overall development of a services-oriented economy.

“The human factor, and in particular the ‘team’ unit, is fundamental in building service cultures of excellence.

Companies need to invest in their staff, whether in terms of training or balanced motivation, to leverage the service. That’s a big part of change in mindset. I cannot take care of my ‘visitors’ if my house is not well prepared,” he says.

This works on the concept of the ‘internal customer’ where companies take good care of their staff in order for them to serve the ‘external customer’.

“A second change in mindset would be: my customers come first, they have the upper hand and they determine my business strategy, so let me treat them accordingly,” he adds.

E Call 17 552-878.

Administrative Focus When? June 1-6 Event? Conference Venue? TBA E Call 17 383-862.

The Kingdom plays host to the 29th International Public Administration Conference with a special focus on The Future of Public Administration: Leadership and Professionalism.

Other topics to be tackled are risks and future strategies of the industry, leadership in the future, and the creation of innovative services for the future.

The International Conference will be held in collaboration with the International Institute of Administrative Sciences and the International Association of Schools and Institutes of Public Administration. An elite group of specialists in public administration will participate in several sessions including Mohammed Al Qaied, officer of the eGovernemnt Authority and Adnan Al Mahmood, the IT and knowledge manager at Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company.

52 x Entrepreneur - 54 x Interview - 56 x Spotlight

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June 2013 51

businessentrepreneur

Mohamed Elkanzi and Hussain Al Alqami

Are You Being Watched?

Simi Kamboj Navigating our way outdoors with GPS technology is a cakewalk, but challenges arise when we need a tracking system that works accurately in an indoor setting.

52 June 2013

Often, locating something or someone within a large enclosed space, be it a mall, a warehouse or an airport, can be an exhausting exercise.

Local positioning is an area that Mohamed Elkanzi and his partners have been working on for a few years and the team has come up with a real-time location system (RTLS) that works on Wi-Fi technology.

“Wireless RTLS tags are either worn by people or attached to items that need to be tracked. The reference points, which are spaced throughout a building, receive wireless signals from these tags to determine their location. The tracking is real time, with 90 per cent accuracy within a 10-15 centimeter range,” explains Mohamed, co-founder Artealus.

Through the mobile application developed by the team, users can load an indoor location map on their mobile phone or handheld Wi-Fi device. This pinpoints the user’s location and the position of other app users or tags that happen to be within the same building.

In order to use the application within their establishment, enterprises will need to integrate their database into the location system, which then enables them to track down any inventory or personnel within their premises with the aid of Wi-Fi hotspots.

“The uses for a tracking device in an indoor space can be diverse. This ranges from hospitals trying to locate patients, nurses or equipment, mall visitors hunting for very specific merchandise, or workers looking for a tool cart in a warehouse,” he says.

Mohamed is quick to underplay the privacy concerns that such a surveillance system could raise, arguing that the device can be tailored, depending on how closely an enterprise wants

the locations to be pinpointed.

“Human tracking is entirely voluntary. You don’t wear a tag unless you want to be tracked. Moreover, users who download this application on their mobile will have the option to tweak their privacy settings if they want to remain invisible to others users of the app,” he says.

Artealus co-founder Hussain Al Alqami feels a tracking device will work well for children in malls, where app users could keep track of them through the tags the kids wear on their wrist.

A tracking system, when deployed in a retail set-up, could be of immense benefit to businesses in personalising their marketing strategies and plans. Retailers who sign up for the service will benefit from a statistical analysis of footfalls at their stores and even be able to determine the ‘blind spots’ in a shopping mall.

“Through an analysis of the window shopping behaviour of customers, retailers can take steps to influence them,” says Hussain.

The team is now finalising the application and demonstrations will be made for clients from this month. The team believes Bahrain is the perfect laboratory to test their device before they approach bigger clients in the region, including airports, malls and hospitals in Dubai and Qatar.

xxxxx Through an analysis of the window shopping behaviour of customers, retailers can take steps to influence them www.bahrainthismonth.com

Quality never goes out of style.

First Pulsator Agitator Washer from Frigidaire in 1947 that fully automated the washing process

Generations and styles have changed, but consumers still demand quality and reliability.

Frigidaire has fulfilled those needs for 95 years while providing innovations to simplify a busy life.

businessinterview

Seeing is Believing DAVID M. ROBERTSON We’ve probably all noticed there has been a lot to ‘C’ at Bahrain City Centre in recent weeks; Duaij Khalifa Al Rumaihi, senior mall manager, explains the commotion.

54 June 2013

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Bahrain This Month: What is the ‘Art of C’ project all about?

Duaij Khalifa Al Rumaihi: The ‘Art of C’ project was a way for Bahrain City Centre to engage with the community and showcase the talent of local artists and children. As Majid Al Futtaim Properties finalised the new ‘City Centre’ branding, Bahrain City Centre took the opportunity to host an interactive workshop as a platform to introduce the new ‘C’ identity.

For this, children from the Bahrain Talented Kids’ Society were partnered with a local Bahraini artist to design a blank ‘C’ canvas. The workshop was conducted live inside the mall and shoppers were able to witness the works of art come to life over the course of the three days.

BTM: What is the philosophy behind the City Centre brand?

Rumaihi: Majid Al Futtaim Properties’ ‘City Centre’ shopping malls have become the hallmark of excellence not just in Bahrain but across the region. While all City Centre malls have been adapted to meet the local needs of the community in which they reside, they bear the international standard of design and customer service excellence in addition to being popular ‘meeting points’ for the community with our integrated offer of shopping, leisure and entertainment.

Bahrain City Centre, as the Kingdom’s premier shopping destination, is a landmark for residents and true to our brand.

We bring a diversity of experiences — shop, dine, play and stay — throughout the year.

BTM: How has MAF’s vision of the Bahrain City Centre changed from its previous branding?

Rumaihi: The re-branding was done to unify and strengthen the ‘City Centre’ brand through a common and iconic symbol that our shoppers could identify with — the ‘C’ symbol, which is the centerpiece of the ‘Art of C’ project.

BTM: History suggests that malls need to refresh themselves on a regular basis. Is the re-branding part of that process?

Rumaihi: Yes, by continually evolving, Bahrain City Centre can sustain its leading position as the premier shopping and lifestyle destination; but it also gives our shoppers a new and memorable experience each time.

Whether it’s through a re-branding exercise, unique marketing campaigns or new store openings, our commitment is to ensure we are meeting the growing needs of our customers.

BTM: What does it take to deliver a successful shopping mall in the GCC today?

Rumaihi: For Bahrain City Centre, the key to our success is listening to the needs of our shoppers and catering to them through targeted marketing campaigns, hosting family-oriented or unique events and introducing new brands such as Marks & Spencer. This has also evolved to include our active online audience, and today we have more than 162,000 followers on our Facebook page.

The new City Centre branding is part of this commitment, as Bahrain City Centre will more closely align with City Centre malls across the region, benefiting our shoppers as we adopt new and exciting campaigns that will be adapted for our market.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BTM: What is your current view of the retail market in Bahrain?

Rumaihi: Consumer confidence has improved over the last year; retailers have reported positive sales and our footfall continues to increase at a steady pace and we are confident that the retail sector is healthy and on the upswing.

This year got off to a strong start for Bahrain as we recently hosted a successful F1 event, and we have been chosen as the Capital of Arab Tourism 2013 — a strong indicator that the economy is stable and on the upswing.

BTM: Walking around the mall you can see plenty of signs that direct shoppers to the mall’s Instagram page and app. When you examine footfall in the mall, how much of that traffic do you believe is influenced by the social media interaction that shoppers have with the likes of Instagram and the BCC app?

Rumaihi: Instagram is becoming a very popular social media platform, and Bahrain City Centre has also its own account (www.instagram.com/bahraincitycentre) to engage with our fans through visual imagery.

It’s hard to quantify what percentage of our footfall is attributed to social media; however we do create unique campaigns that have a call to action, bringing them into our mall with rewards-based incentives.

Summer Camp Bahrain City Centre offers a summer sports camp during June for 30 kids aged between seven and 12. The three, three-day camps last three hours each and will run on June 10-12, June 17-19 and June 24-26. Kids will be able to engage in a variety of activities including a chance to experience the Wahooo! Waterpark and showcase their 10-pin bowling and football juggling skills. This concept is the first-of-its-kind offered by a shopping mall in Bahrain.

E Visit www.bahraincitycentre.com.

June 2013 55

spotlightthismonth

Nurturing Enterprise a Women’s Incubator Centre (WIC), which houses more than 60 units. More than 88 per cent of these have since been occupied or booked.

The bank also provides assistance to the business incubator on the campus of the University of Bahrain. In collaboration with Tamkeen, BDB offers pre-seed capital grants to Bahraini innovators and extends feasibility study grants to promoters of new and innovative enterprises.

simi kamboj Encouraging the growth of Bahraini entrepreneurship and supporting small and medium enterprises has been the long-standing mission of Bahrain Development Bank.

Since its establishment in 1992, the brief of the Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) has been to assist the self-employment of Bahrainis, helping them to attain career-oriented goals through financial and business advisory services.

The bank prides itself in promoting innovation in Bahrain, in line with Vision 2030. With an authorised share capital of BD100 million, and a paid-up capital of BD65 million, 89.7 per cent of BDB is owned by the Ministry of Finance, and the remainder is held by the Social Insurance Fund.

Start-up support In its bid to help accelerate the development of start-up and fledgling companies, and to provide them space and support services, the bank established the Bahrain Business Incubator Centre (BBIC) in 2001, and increasing the capacity in recent years. It has also set up an industrial park. Currently, the BBIC serves over 141 tenants.

Towards the end of last year, BDB invested in the building of

56 June 2013

Lending platform BDB advances short-, medium- and long-term loans, using both conventional and Islamic models, for developing private sector industries and businesses. The funds are provided for project finance, working capital, premises and for procuring plant and machinery. The bank participates in equity funding, especially in new companies being set up in approved sectors.

It has invested in the venture capital fund set up by Bahrainbased Venture Capital Bank for funding small- and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) in Bahrain.

By the end of March 2013, the accumulated project loan approvals exceeded BD407 million and covered 10,269 transactions. Out of these, BD124.4 million was approved for start-ups and other projects by 5,973 Bahraini entrepreneurs, including youth and women.

Grooming businesses Since 2000, BDB, along with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) in Bahrain and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, has conducted entrepreneurial development training programs for Bahraini youth and women interested in setting up their own businesses.

It additionally assists potential entrepreneurs in conducting feasibility studies, preparing business plans and approaching BDB or other banks for financial assistance. One of the bank’s subsidiaries, the Bahrain Institute of Entrepreneurship and Technology, provides high quality entrepreneurship and educational services in the IT field as well.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Irresistible India 2013 The glamour, the style and the magnificent narrative of 100 years of Bollywood came alive in Bahrain as the theme of the third Irresistible India event that was held last month. Put together by Mala Kumar, the wife of the HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, the evening paid tribute to the most prolific film industry in the world with a mix of classy culture, fabulous song-and-dance and celebrity presence. The gala night titled “Celebrating A Century Of Bollywood” was held under the patronage of the Embassy of India at the Gulf Convention Centre’s Al Dana Ballroom in the Gulf Hotel

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala Kumar, HE Sameera Rajab, Minister of State for Information Affairs, Shaikha Marwa bint Rashid Al Khalifa, HE Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa & Captain Mahmood Al Mahmood

Shaikha Aysha, Shaikha Huda, Mala Kumar & Doris

HE Dr Mohan & Mala Kumar with Shaikha Marwa & HE Shaikh Salman

Bonnie Krajeski, HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador, Mala Kumar & Tomoko Sumi

Philip, Megha & Rocio

Bridget Lindsay & Rupert

Meera & Ravi

Shaukat & Amber

Guests of honours & sponsors at the cake cutting ceremony

HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador, HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, Bonnie Krajeski, HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador, HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, Tomoko Sumi, Bridget Lindsay & Zeina Testot

HE Dr Mohan & Mala Kumar with Shaikha Marwa & HE Shaikh Salman take a look at the Hindi film posters that were displayed

HE Shaikh Salman, Shaikha Marwa, HE Sameera Rajab, HE Dr Mohan & Mala Kumar & Captain Mahmood

Mala Kumar with Mona Almoayyed, Adel Fakhro & friends

58 June 2013

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Irresistible India 2013

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Seba, Sumaiya & Roshni

Rashida, Angela & Dena

Jennie, Michel & Gayan

Maheen, Laila & Shirley

Huda, Fowzia & Bahia with friends

Liliane, Lynne & Souheil

Mala Kumar with dancers

Omran & Rowena

Fareeda & Shahnaz

Tosin & Jarna

Gopika & Dheeptha

Nalini & Ashalatha

Anil & Anita

Dr Pierre & Faith

Jessica

Sharika

Priti & Arjun

David, Rose, Sheryl & David

Guests getting into the swing of things with Shaimak Davar's dance troupe

60 June 2013

Devi & Jalaja

A Bollywood dance being performed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

www.severin.com

FOR BIG STARS AND LITTLE STARLETS. With SEVERIN HairCare, even the smallest starlets can feel like big stars. With the SEVERIN Beauty line, you effortlessly discover your own versatility. Individual creations are achieved quickly and then change again in favour of a new stylish trend. With SEVERIN HairCare, the bathroom becomes the stage.

www.yyfakhro.com

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James 6th Birthday Party James celebrated his 6th birthday with parents Bless & David, brother Henry, a number of his classmates & friends at Magic Planet, Bahrain City Centre

Henry, Bless, David & James

Juano

Ibrahim

Jennifer

Kevin

Alfie

Dylan

Rose

Cristina, Bless & Maricris

Toni

Bless & Constantina

James & friends at the cake cutting

James & Tony

Tess, Myla & Jane

Henry & Arjun

James, Alfie & Lennert

Marks & Spencer Opening At BCC Marks & Spencer (M&S) held a ribbon cutting to mark the launch of its new store at Bahrain City Centre (BCC), the group's second outlet in the kingdom. The store was inaugurated by Mark Senior, the head of operations, M&S Al-Futtaim along with Jaffar Saeed, commercial department manager, M&S Al-Futtaim

Jaffar Saeed & mark Senior cut the ribbon

Candy, Rima & Mahiba

62 June 2013

Bilal Alzer, Naji Al Qarooni & Mark Senior

Ahmed, Anwaar, Salah & Ali

Mohammed, Noel, Jaffar, Muneer & Mahiba

Lima & Sarina

Ankita & Karuna

Nathasha

Leeba, Reshma & Nanda

Anwaar & Dipti

Moses & May

www.bahrainthismonth.com

italyinbahrain

Renewing Commitment businessmen coming back to Bahrain,” says Ambassador Vecchi, noting the large presence of Italian companies at the recently held agriculture fair in Bahrain.

Italian players are currently involved in executing the North Manama Causeway project as well as some projects for the Ministry of Works.

“Clean energy and especially the renewable energy sector is an area where Italian companies are actively scouting for opportunities in the region. There’s sufficient scope for Bahrain to work with Italy in its implementation of a sound environmental policy,” he believes.

The Italian community in Bahrain may be small, with around 350 members, but what’s significant is that a part of this population chooses to live in Bahrain even though many are employed in Saudi Arabia.

“Bahrain has distinguished itself in the region through the extremely high quality of life it offers. The open access it provides to Saudi Arabia, and the warm, welcoming and tolerant local population, make it an ideal base for doing business in the region,” he observes.

Human rights training is another important arena where the two countries have been working together in recent times.

Around 130 officials from Bahrain, including judges, prosecutors and policemen underwent training in international procedures in prosecution of crimes at Sicily’s International Institute of Higher Studies in Criminal Science between May last year and April 2013.

His Excellency Alberto Vecchi

SIMI KAMBOJ It may have started small, but the meaningful engagement between Italy and Bahrain is set to deepen in the coming years.

64 June 2013

Italy’s Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Alberto Vecchi, is a native of Modena, an ancient town that’s distinguished itself as the base for some of the best known Italian sports car manufacturers, including Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati. Given the solid small and medium enterprises (SME) background of his hometown, it is perhaps no surprise that economic and bilateral ties are uppermost on his mind.

Bilateral relations are based on reciprocal interests and Bahrain’s trade with Italy has been modest so far, hovering around €200 million annually. Italy is Bahrain’s 13th largest trading partner, exporting cars, machinery, fashion merchandise and textiles to the Kingdom in exchange for petroleum products and iron and steel.

“The status quo that had prevailed after the 2008 economic crisis and more recently, following the unrest of 2011, is beginning to change. I’m sensing the interest from Italian

Culture connect A consequence of bilateral trade ties is the demand for cultural activities and events centred around Italy in the Kingdom.

Ambassador Vecchi lauds efforts by the Ministry of Culture to promote Italian culture and entertainment in Bahrain.

“The new national theatre is an astonishing building and it’s heartening to see Italian opera, orchestra and jazz troupes performing in Bahrain with such regularity. Thanks to the efforts of the Ministry of Culture, people in Italy have become increasingly aware of Arab culture,” he says.

Ambassador Vecchi is counting on support from the Italian Bahraini Friendship Association and the Italian Arab Chamber of Commerce in forging closer bilateral and trade ties over the coming years.

xxxxx The new national theatre is an astonishing building and it’s heartening to see Italian opera, orchestra and jazz troupes performing in Bahrain www.bahrainthismonth.com

italyinbahrain

Members of the media and Maserati staff at the test drive event in Dubai

Simplicity Refined DAVID M. ROBERTSON

Model Maserati Quattroporte Model year 2013 Engine type 3.8-litre twin turbo charged Displacement 3,798cc Horsepower 530 hp @ 6,500rpm Torque 710Nm @ 2,000rpm Transmission Eight-speed transmission Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 4.7 sec Top speed 307 km/h

66 June 2013

When we think of an exclusive top-of-the-mind luxury car, Maserati sits comfortably alongside the very best.

It’s also remarkably affordable.

Think of an Italian lifestyle and we start to roll off a series of superlatives; fabulous fashion from the catwalks of Milan, beautiful jewellery and classical home furnishings and accessories. The variety of cuisine styles encountered from the snow-covered mountains in Northern Italy to the foot of the boot in Palermo is almost a sin; no country should ever have been allowed to be so well endowed with such delactable delights.

And, then there are the cars. Not just any cars, but sculptures that belie the mechanical mind to deliver a poetry of motion that races the blood.

Conjure up the word ‘Maserati’ and the full indulgence of everything Italian is laid bare in front of you. The flagship of this automotive icon is the Quattroporte GTS; in English the name simply translates to ‘four door’.

In essence that’s the appeal of an Italian brand — simplicity refined. The styling and the design speak for themselves; there’s no requirement for superficial naming conventions. Of

course, in the case of the Quattroporte, it helps if it’s also the fastest Maserati ever built. With a top speed of 307 km/h, the V8 engine option is as fast as most two-door equivalents.

The 3.8-litre, twin turbo charged beauty delivers a massive 530 hp of power and an even more impressive 710 Nm of torque (with overboost). The ‘brochure’ states this Quattroporte accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.

It’s the sort of statistic one is inclined to test; the opportunity to do so was offered by Maserati with a trip to Dubai to cruise the city and its environs. On a suitably secluded road we’d have to say we believe the brochure! When easing the Quattroporte from 70 km/h to 170 km/h, the five seconds required to up the cruising speed just flies by.

It’s not just the sheer power, though, that stands out when ensconed behind the steering wheel in the driver’s cockpit; it’s the effortless simplicity which delivers a smoothness that matches the performance.

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Trendsetter The newest, sixth generation Quattroporte is larger, lighter, more luxurious and more practical than its predecessor. It’s easy to be nonchalant with references to the word ‘flagship’. This Quattroporte, however, is as faithful to its heritage as it is to the leading role the sedan plays in setting the technology tone for a slew of new models from the marque.

The powerful engine and the large cabin are at the core of the Quattroporte’s design, dominated by a long, powerful nose and a concave Trident grille and providing a clear link to both the outgoing Quattroporte and the GranTurismo.

A key to remaining true to its traditions, Maserati has maintained the 50:50 weight distribution between the front and rear of the sedan. A double-wishbone front suspension and a state-of-the-art five-link rear suspension deliver the added security and all-weather assurance of all-wheel drive as well.

New standards in quality can be seen in every area from design, development, fabrication and process controls. The car is produced in a new plant that combines Maserati’s traditions of craftsmanship with cutting-edge technologies that are able to guarantee outstanding quality by controlling even the tiniest details.

Traditional handcrafted detailing continues in the Quattroporte’s cabin, and this has been added to with even more interior space for all seats and in both four- and fiveseat layouts.

Cabin luxury leaps forward technically, too, with features like the Maserati Touch Control screen, adjustable pedals (for left hand drive only vehicles) and reversing cameras.

To boost the interior experience there’s the optional 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, as well as WLAN-based WiFi and compatibility with most modern mobile phone systems.

Maserati overseas managing director, Umberto Cini

Your own masterpiece High on the list of priorities for Maserati is the ability to customise your own car. With options almost limitless, don’t expect, though, to walk into a showcase and walk out with a spanking new ‘motor’. It’ll take around three months to incorporate the vision you have created — your very own Italian masterpiece.

Euro Motors is the exclusive distributor for Maserati in the Kingdom.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2013 67

BAHRAIN OLYMPIC COMMITTEE

NINO RESTAURANT

Excellency Rewarded Always changing to meet customers’ tastes and the modern world of cuisine, an Italian restaurant launches its 2013 menu and a loyalty card to reward us for our patronage.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Offering new monthly dishes to tempt us, Nino Restaurant’s chef Patrick Minj has worked overtime and created a delicious, modern, stylish and tempting menu for the new year. Filled with gorgeous photography, the menu consists of almost 100 per cent new dishes as it makes everything look and sound more appealing through its visuals.

This is not just any new menu revamp, though. The dishes may be new, such as the wagyu sausage fonduto, tostade gamberetti, fried short ribs and pollo fritto Americano, but so too is the style. Presentation and flavours have all been updated to truly modern cuisine.

New dishes are featured in every section; even dessert has new choices and all dishes are truly cutting edge with such modern delicacies as imported Buratta cheese, truffle pesto, wild mushrooms and the freshest of global vegetables.

Nino’s has even renewed and enhanced their ‘weight management menu’ with such delicacies as pollo verde, chicken marinated with mixed green herbs, lightly breaded and grilled, and served with farro grain salad and light chermula aioli. Or perhaps try a tagliata griglia, the leanest cut of Angus tenderloin grilled with farro grain salad and light Dijonnaise aioli. Eating healthy and staying slim never tasted so good.

Dining establishments have always had to adapt to new economic climates and changes in the way we eat, but Nino restaurant truly works hard to stay that little bit ahead of us, offering dishes that we instantly fall in love with. Avant-garde since it opened many years ago, the restaurant has remained popular with its Arabic-infused Italian fare. Its chefs continue to deliver inspiring dishes and generous portions into the bargain.

Loyalty card Nino launched its ‘frequent diner loyalty card’. The card itself is free and rewards regular diners with one point per dinar spent. When diners reach a specified number of points they will receive a voucher for BD10 for future dining.

Nino is the Al Kharafi Group’s first outlet to introduce this system and will eventually incorporate all their brands, making it a must-have dining option especially for families.

Visitors have been able to enjoy the new exterior pedestrian paved walkways within the restaurant alley of Al Aali Shopping Complex. A trip to this chic modern New York warehouse conversion will be even more pleasurable.

Coupled with a delicious new menu and a loyalty card for frequent diners, this month really is a time to renew our love for Nino Restaurant. Besides, they have recently been awarded the 2013 Certificate of Excellence by Tripadvisor, placing it in the top-performing 10 per cent of all businesses worldwide on the website.

E Call 17 566-555.

June 2013 69

italyinbahrain

A Sea of Time ASIA JEWELLERS

Officine Panerai’s watches are a natural blend of Italian design, Swiss technology and a passion for the sea.

Panerai is reputed for its pure Italian aesthetic that is loyal to the peninsula’s traditions and is unchanged by time. Pioneering the watch-making industry since the 19th century, it went from a supplier of precision instruments to the Italian navy in the 1900s to an international brand in the 21st century.

In the Historic Collection, Italian style and the origins of the brand are combined with hand-wound in-house movements and mechanics. The Radiomir 1940 in steel comes in a case that is 42mm in diameter with the P.999 hand-wound movement, the smallest and thinnest in the wide range of calibres produced by the brand.

The calibre, visible through the sapphire crystal window set in the back, has a power reserve of 60 hours and a balance which oscillates at 21,600 vibrations per hour. The watch is finished with a black alligator strap while its counterpart, the Radiomir 1940 Oro Rosso, comes in a brown alligator strap.

E Call 17 535-344.

70 June 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Viva Italia At The K Hotel The K Hotel in Juffair hosted an Italian Night for a number of guests at the hotel's poolside last month

Travis, Volker & Ron

Natalia & Mohammed

Jude & Reneesh

Bilal, Bambi, Ayla & Doreen

Ken, Laura & Ben

Maria & Bushra

Doreen & Surbita

Bilal & Mayukh

Patricia, Doreen & Sharon

Amy & Pooja

Angela

Mostafa & Bala

Winner Best Italian BiCE Restaurant

Mail: restaurant@bicebahrain.com • Telephone: +973 17533666 • Fax: +973 17533777 Visit us at: www.bicebahrain.com

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June 2013 71

destination

An Arabian Paradise Elma Bartholomew Are the joys of your last vacation wearing off? Is it too soon to take another lengthy break? We’ve found the middle ground — a long weekend in Salalah.

72 June 2013

Oman’s second largest city after Muscat and the traditional capital of its southern province of Dhofar, Salalah is perhaps one of our best options for a weekend getaway. A visit to the subtropical city will have you wondering if you really are in the Middle East, especially if you are there in the peak monsoon season (or as they call it, (khareef).

For those who have been to Muscat, be prepared to be hit by a contrasting setting. If you’re here between mid-June and midSeptember, you will be instantly spellbound by the greenery reminiscent of South India, which is not surprising as it is the monsoon clouds of the subcontinent that offer the constant drizzle in the area.

Who knew that this part of the world had mountain ranges with gushing waterfalls? Surrounded by misty pastures and the pleasant weather, relaxation comes effortlessly. This province is meant for those who would enjoy being at one with nature.

The oasis of captivating flora and the cool breeze isn’t the end of your trip.

If I was to describe Salalah in one word, it would be ‘diverse’.

If you go towards the coastal town of Mirbat, which is a mustvisit, you will have the luxury of viewing the infinite hill range or jebel on one side of the road, while you’re enthralled by the stunning white sand beach on the other.

In a vast land like this, you will have to be prepared for long drives (most likely in a 4x4 owing to its often rocky terrain).

Aside from coconut-fringed beaches, you will find plenty of plantations on your road trip, the usual suspects being bananas, papayas and pineapples.

In addition to its own rich culture, the birthplace of the Sultan Qaboos bin Said is influenced by Oman’s former territories in East Africa as well as an international lifestyle. Like many Arab states, it has a large expatriate population.

For the pilgrims The religious traveller will benefit from visiting Nabi Ayoub’s tomb, which lies 40 kilometres away from Salalah. As a sign of respect, it is advisable to remove your footwear and women should cover their head with a scarf. The reverence that envelops the area is a one-of-a-kind experience. It has to do with beauty just as it has to do with religious beliefs.

The small stone mosque in the compound is believed to have been used by Nabi Ayoub (Prophet Job) for prayers. You can also find his footprint on stone by the tomb. The story behind this is awe-inspiring. Another highlight is the gorgeous gardens that are spread across the plot. The drive up Jebel Ittin is beautiful as well.

In downtown Salalah is the tomb of Nabi Umran, also known as Imran. It’s a pleasant place at the back of which there is a small garden with peacocks, guinea fowl and other birds.

Khor Rori

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The land of frankincense Known as the perfume capital of Arabia and the attar capital of Oman, Salalah is a popular tourist destination due to the abundance of frankincense trees that line the city’s oases.

Dhofar is especially known for this and boasts a heritage site called Wadi Dawkah Frankincense Reserve.

For a small fee, you can visit The Museum of the Frankincense Land connected to Al-Baleed Archaeological Park, which has many exhibits that tell you about the history of the area.

Al-Husn Souq has a section that specialises in frankincense, other kinds of incense, oils and perfumes. Another section sells traditional Omani textiles. There are large numbers of tailors’ shops here as well as a few simple restaurants. Not far from the souq is a selection of sweet shops. If you’re looking for souvenirs, this is the time to fetch some. Practise your bargaining skills.

In search of history Al-Baleed Archaeological Park is one of the most interesting places to visit in the Salalah area. It is the site of the ancient port city of Zafar. The earliest settlement here dates back to around 2,000 BC, in the Bronze Age. It grew throughout the Iron Age, and you can still see the remains of a house from this period. The site covers an area of 64 hectares and there is a broad pathway, measuring 2.2km, which enables visitors to walk past all of the major structures, including the City Wall, Citadel and Grand Mosque.

Salalah Museum is the cultural centre of Salalah and has on display the Al Musnad writings, ancient scriptures and coins dating back to 11th century, pottery from the Middle Ages, traditional irrigation tools and manuscripts.

Taqah Castle, a nineteenth century adobe fort was originally the residence of the governor, but it now houses a museum.

There are several decorated rooms and you can climb to the roof to see views of the surrounding area.

Sumhuram was an important trading port between the 4th century BC and the 4th century AD. Today it is an impressive archaeological site with a beautiful location on a hill, overlooking Khor Ruri and the sea. There are extensive stone walls as well as a temple, residential area, storehouses and gateway to the harbour.

Wadi Darbat

Birdwatchers’ haven The region is one of the best bird watching areas in the Middle East. Good locations include just about anywhere in the Dhofar Mountains, Mughsayl Bay and the ains (springs) and khors (creeks) to the east of Salalah.

Khor Ruri or Khawr Rouri is a creek just to the east of Taqah. Here the water and reed beds attract a lot of birds, making it a bird watching hotspot. In fact, nearly 200 species of bird have been recorded here. The creek was once the site of a frankincense port and on a hill, overlooking it, is the important archaeological site of Sumhuram. Another scenic location of natural springs is Ain Homran. Seven different species of eagles have been identified here.

The scenic route Wadi Darbat is a natural park with majestic views of waterfalls, lakes, mountains, caves, wildlife and lush green vegetation. There is a 100-metre waterfall and many cave chambers with stalactites and stalagmites. The caves were used by the shepherds as shelter and one can see coloured paintings of animals on the walls. At the end of it, there is a cave which is considered to be the largest natural one in Oman. In khareef season, nomads camp at the bottom of the valley while the camel herds graze on the lush pastures. You can often see white storks feeding as well.

Mughsayl Bay has one of the most beautiful beaches in Oman. It’s a good spot for beach activities and bird watching. Stretching for four kilometres, this is a magnificent sandy beach outlined by sculptured cliffs and blowholes formed in the limestone rocks, where plumes of water can reach a height of over 30 meters. At high tide, the sea bursts dramatically through the rock slabs jutting out from the cliffs revealing many blowholes, the largest of which are covered with metal grids. Al Marneef Cave is the highlight of this area; it’s a shame if you miss it. The view along the coast where the mountains meet the sea is spectacular. The nearby Khawr Mughsayl is home to flamingos, pelicans and storks.

Ayn Razat is a beautiful spring located between the mountains. A trip to the seaside town of Mirbat is advised. You will love the local culture and little historical sites that are scattered across the town. Visit the harbour and the market on weekends; we hear their camel meat is the best. In peak season, they serve delicious feasts as well. You can also watch people collect oysters on the beach or visit the castle.

Magnetic Mountain, often referred to as Gravity Point, is on the way towards Mirbat. This is one of those places you need to see to believe. The idea is, once you reach there, your car will automatically start moving and may catch speeds of up to 50km/hr. It’s a place that defies gravity. Although hard to spot on a map, this is perhaps the most popular tourist location.

Oman Air flies almost daily to Salalah and also offers two limited holiday packages for five-star getaways.

View from Marneef Cave

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Birdwatcher's Haven

Frankincense

June 2013 73

bystanderthismonth

Thalassa Sea & Spa Reception The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa hosted an exclusive reception for a number of guests at the hotel's Thalassa Sea & Spa. Guests were introduced to the relaxing and rejuvenating world of Thalassotheraphy and experienced neck, shoulder and foot massages performed by the Spa's highly skilled therapists

Charbel & Faith

Dominic & Anastasia

Samy Boukhaled & Marie-Paul

Ahmed, Wissam, Debbie, Latifa, Noha & Joseph

Afshen, Sadaf, Covi, Tanweer & Kameela

David & Dena

Maria, Debbie & Nabayit

Salha, Sana & Moi

Megha, Mala & Alison

German Ambassador's Reception On the occasion of the joint workshop "Women's Portrayal in the Arab Media" by Deutsche Welle Akademie, German Federal Foreign Office and Supreme Council of Women, HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador, invited HE Sameera Rajab, Minister of State for Information Affairs and Spokesperson of the Government, Members of Parliament, the Supreme Council of Women, female journalists, business women as well as active women of the German community to a reception at her residence Dr Amal, HE Sabine Taufmann, Nihad, Amal & Fatima

Dr Mariam

Dr Hala Al Ansari & Shaikha Maram

Shaikha Deena & Shaikha Mariam

Mona, Manar & Bettila

Heidi & Rocio

HE Sabine Taufmann & Manar

Dr Amal & HE Sabine Taufmann

Estera, Alex & Wiebke

Duniya & Dr Mariam

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

British School Leavers Lunch Thirty three British School of Bahrain Year 13 students and their tutors attended a farewell lunch at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa last month. The students are celebrating their final year at the British School of Bahrain and will now continue their studies all around the world

Khalil Ahmed, Sally Milnes & Wayne Ridgeway

Juhi, Ameera, Kamran, Neha & Sarah

Jamie, Reem, Satiya, Megan, Isabel & Zain

13A with Khalil Ahmed

Evo, Ben & Salaar

13M with Sally Milnes

Dinesh enjoying the buffet

Ameera, Juhi, Noha, Omar, Sarah, Faraj, Kamran & Kevin

13 year leavers at the lunch

Chris, Sattiya, Zain, Jad, Salaar, Evo & Ella

76 June 2013

Gersham, Farris & Dinesh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

downtimeintro

From Sherlock to Starfleet Paden Vaughan The latest Star Trek movie Star Trek: Into Darkness has Benedict Cumberbatch of BBC’s Sherlock playing the bad guy; we take a look at stars who’ve gone from TV to the big screen.

It was much to the delight of Sherlock fans across the globe that 36-year-old Benedict Cumberbatch was selected to play the role of the villainous John Harrison in the latest Star Trek voyage — and with good reason!

Cumberbatch has always been fantastic in the BBC series, which sees him play an updated, 21st century version of the famous Sherlock Holmes. His delivery in Star Trek was excellent, so it seems as if stardom is in the pipeline for the thespian.

But the jump from the TV to the big screen is by no means unique to him; here’s a selection of stars who started small and made it big.

Martin Freeman: (The Office; The Hobbit) It’s pretty crazy to think that Tim from The Office is now portraying Bilbo Baggins in Peter Jackson’s Hobbit trilogy. The 41-year-old actor started his movie career with British comedies such as Love Actually and a cameo in Shaun of the Dead. He’s set to star alongside Sherlock partner Cumberbatch in this year’s The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.

Sacha Baron Cohen: (Ali G; Les Misérables) Hammersmith’s Sacha Baron Cohen has come a long way from Also this month

interviewing celebrities and other deluded individuals with his many outragous personas in Da Ali G Show. As well as each of his characters having their own movie, he’s played various roles in movies from Hugo to Les Misérables.

Johnny Depp: (21 Jump Street; Pirates of the Caribbean) This is a man who women across the globe, young and old, find insanely irresistible, yet who had pretty humble beginnings. He started off starring in cop series 1 Jump Street back in the 80s and became something of a teen icon. His first big break was with Edward Scissorhands, which skyrocketed his career and developed his partnership with Tim Burton. Depp has since gone on to perform in a huge range of movies from Pirates of the Caribbean to Alice in Wonderland.

Mila Kunis: (Family Guy; Black Swan) She’s become one of the most recognised and admired (especially by teenage boys) actresses of her generation. But she’ll forever be known as Meg Griffin of Family Guy. Kunis still voices the character on the hit FOX TV show, but has gone on to appear in movies s uch as the critically acclaimed Black Swan and also this year’s Oz: The Great and Powerful.

George Clooney: (ER; Oceans Eleven) Still appearing in polls ranking him one of the ‘Sexiest Men Alive’, Clooney has definitely come far from his first acclaimed role in medical drama ER. He’s since gone on to perform in a massive roster of movies, most notably Oceans Eleven, Twelve & Thirteen, and also Good Night & Goodluck.

78 Gadgets x 82 Tech Savvy x 87 Music x 88 Games x 89 Websites x 90 Apps x 92 Sattelite TV

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gaming accessories As much as we love touch screens, sometime are fingers too clumsy for precision requiring games. Use the Jot Capacitive Touch Stylus and you’ll immediately feel like you’re holding a familiar ballpoint pen. With this nifty gadget, you will be sketching like an artist in no time.

The Joystick-It gives you a real physical joystick for increased precision with touch screen based games. Simply press down to attach it to your tablet based computer’s screen for improved gaming.

No wires or batteries needed.

June 2013 77

downtimegadgets

Travel with Ease This month, travel is all the rage with a selection of awesome gadgets perfect for those with a sense of wanderlust.

Editor's pick!

Cool calling

You’ll never have to worry about your phone not working abroad again! The SpareOne mobile phone is the first ever emergency mobile, working on a single AA battery! In addition, the phone has a built-in flashlight, a dedicated emergency services dial button and an incredible 15-year lifespan!

Oh snap!

The iM1836 is the first ever Android-powered smart camera! It features interchangeable lenses, 10-30mm optical zoom and allows you to share photos directly on social media sites!

Time to travel

The awesome little Martian Voice Command Watches act almost exactly like phones! You can take calls on them, receive texts and they’re Bluetooth enabled! And, of course, you can operate with both iOS and Android platforms.

Technically fluent

Most of us aren’t gifted enough to know the language of everywhere we go, so the awesome Franklin 12-language (Speaking) Global Translator allows us to piece together phrases from its library of 450,000 words!

Total protection

There’s nothing quite as delicate as an iPad. So, with the LifeproofNüüd, you can protect your iPad against knocks, bumps, rain, dirt and all the elements without compromising the button usage!

78 June 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Eco charging

Saving energy and battery waste, the Mushroom GreenZero Wall travel charger stops charging your device when it’s full, with a total of up to 30 per cent energy savings!

Easy streaming

The cool little Roku Streaming Stick allows you to plug into a variety of Hitachi and Insignia TV’s and access loads of great streaming services such as Netflix and Vudu! There are plans to make it compatible with more brands in the future, too!

Bag ‘n’ go

There’s nothing worse than running out of juice for your device on the road, but now that problem is history with the Powerbag Business Class pack. This nifty backpack has a built-in battery system which has enough power to charge up to four devices on the go!

Perfect tracking

With the Trakdot Luggage Tracker, you can track down your luggage and never have to worry about losing it. The device syncs to an app on your phone meaning you don’t have to rely on anyone else to find your luggage!

Healthy traveller

Keeping fit is easier than ever with the Fitbug Orb; a small activity tracker which not only monitors your health data, but also your sleep patterns. Recording overnight body movement, it allows you to draw comparisons between sleep patterns and how your day is spent.

All gadgets are available online.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2013 79

downtimegadgets

Techno News

If you’re after new gadgets, Lulu Hypermarket is where you should be going. Expect to find the most competitive offers on the latest products.

Editor's pick!

BlackBerry Q10

Samsung Galaxy S4

The all-new BlackBerry is making waves in the smartphone market. Thin, light and incredibly fast, the Q10 boasts a userfriendly interface that will keep you connected all the time.

The wide HD Super Amoled screen fits perfectly within an extraordinarily slim bezel that’s encased in a special polycarbonate body, making this the lightest and most sophisticated Galaxy smartphone yet.

HP Envy laptop

This notebook doubles as a tablet. The HP Envy x2 PC gives you the power of two devices in one: a Windows 8 laptop with a bright, vivid HD Touch display and a tablet that slides off for those times when you want to carry even less.

Mito Watch Phone

Looking for something different? How about a watch that doubles as a phone? The Mito S500 comes an impressive touchscreen.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

Samsung 40-inch 3D Smart LED

Offering a high definition viewing experience, this slim 3D LED will bring all your TV and movie action to life. It fits into any home and comes with three HDMI and USB ports, amazing theatre sound, crystal clear image and motion rate quality.

Sony PS3 God of War Ascension

Gamers will love the latest from the God of War franchise.

In this edition, the Sony PS3 game will see Kratos being tested as he seeks freedom, redemption for his sins and the clarity to avenge his family.

LG 42-inch Smart LED

Super-slim, eco-friendly and with a sharper, more detailed picture and stunning contrast ratio, this TV is a revolution in image quality and design and its low profile makes it perfect for wall-mounting.

LG Home Theatre HT-306PD

This home theatre system does so much more than bring you a cinema experience in the comfort of your own living room. You can enjoy a Karaoke function, playback files on USB devices and record CD tracks or FM radio programmes on your USB.

Lulu Hypermarkets can be found at Dana Mall, Hidd, Ramli Mall and East Riffa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2013 81

downtimeshowcase

Tech Savvy Nation We have seen great leaps in the digital world over the years, and even when the technological bloom seems like it has reached its all time high, it keeps getting bigger!

Let’s face it; we would no more leave the house without the phone than we would without our car keys. Having only a mobile to stay connected is a thing of the past. What with today’s fast-paced living, carrying several gadgets is the only

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norm. It’s also not enough to be adequately equipped; boasting only the latest from world renowned brands is the thing to do.

From smartphones, tablets and laptops, technology has revolutionised the way we live. Be it business deals or social duties, everything is done through the virtual world. With Bahrain’s tech savvy culture, the trends come and go in what feels like a matter of seconds. Here is our round up of what is hot right now.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Phones Remember the time when mobiles where only used for making calls and texting? It seems like centuries ago! Today, our lives fully revolve around our devices. With all their high-tech and convenient features, smartphones have become the most essential gadget in the lives of modern men and women. Web access, quality camera, music and video player, all kinds of useful apps and best of all — it’s all on the go! We are fans of the Blackberry Q10 with its vibrant, 3.1-inch OLED display and QWERTY keyboard. Other BTM top picks include the iPhone 5, Nokia Lumia 820, Sony Xperia and the Samsung Galaxy S4. The HTC One is another slim phone that is making waves. The live home stream is interactive and you can take amazing shots with its one-press continuous shooting, VideoPic and a camera that captures 300 per cent more light.

Laptops Figuring out what laptop to choose from has become more difficult than ever. With the launch of Windows 8, the range of systems available in the market is vast. One brand that continues to push the boundary is Apple. The MacBook Pro is the best way to carry the pixels of a large-screen monitor with you on the road. Another favourite is the Asus VivoBook; an affordable, touch-screen ultrabook that is bustling with amazing features. The HP Envy combines a full version of Windows 8 with excellent battery life in a compact package and a superb 11.6-inch screen. Dell’s XPS boasts a fantastic HD screen and great usability wrapped up in a gorgeous silver chassis.

Taiwanese manufacturer Asus has also stepped up their game. The Zenbook UX31 features incredible battery life, features, connectivity and storage.

Tablets Tablets are what are ‘in’ in the computing world. These little gadgets give you internet capabilities, access to email, video chat and allows you to capture images and video while on the go. Whether you are a student or working professional, there is a choice for everyone. What was once a market dominated by Apple’s iPad has now become a competitive sea of innovations and those for on the look out on the hottest new device to carry, the options are endless. Samsung Galaxy Note 8 is fast, sleek, cost-effective and comes with a nice suite of S-Pen enabled drawing and note-taking apps. The iPad-mini is lighter, thinner and cheaper than its bigger predecessors and still boats the same selection of apps. The Surface Pro is a hybrid between a tablet and a convertible laptop, a trend that is making a buzz around town.

This is great for watching movies and even gaming while also acting as a good laptop which runs a full version of Windows 8.

The Nexus 7 tablet offers some impressive features. It runs the Android 4.1 Jelly Bean operating system, which is a platform that provides fast speed for running applications. The Touchmate tablet is another trendy gizmo to be boasting. The 7-inch capacitive multi-touch HDMI internet tablet runs on Android 4.0.

Products are available at Viva 124, Batelco 196, Zain 107, Lulu 17 553-555, Sharaf DG 17 172-617, Gajria 17 555-616, Intercol 17 725-794 and AJM Koohei 17 406-040.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2013 83

downtimeshowcase VIVA BAHRAIN

Smart Phone; Smart Plans

Check out the array of affordable and flexible data plans tailored to meet your needs and budget provided by the Kingdom’s most innovative telecom operator.

Samsung Galaxy S4 The latest innovation from Samsung is the gizmo to have this season and VIVA offers its customers an exclusive launch promotion. The flagship S4 is available in the new unlimited 20, 25 and 30 Smart Plans, where all packages include unlimited VIVA to VIVA calls and data.

Enjoy an additional 100 minutes of calls to other networks with the Smart 30 or 50 minutes with the Smart 25.

The beauty of this smartphone lies in its highly crafted design, encompassing a larger screen size, longer battery life and minimised bezel all housed in a light and slim shape.

HTC One Customers can get their hands on the latest HTC device for free when subscribing to a Smart 30 plan; get 400 free bundled minutes and a BD5 free credit bundle. This plan also gets you unlimited data and a unique number, the device is also available on the Smart 25 plan with only BD49.

The smartphone is equipped with a 4.3-inch display for a rich viewing experience and an amazing camera that captures every

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moment with crisp, vivid photos. The device also includes an exclusive Beats Audio built-in with easy access to all the music you love via HTC Music and Sync Manager.

Blackberry Q10 Starting with the Smart 30 plan, VIVA customers receive the smartphone on 12- or 18-month contracts. Customers have the option of taking the Smart 25 plan as well which offers the Q10 for BD39 on a 12-month contract or for free on an 18-month contract with unlimited free minutes and bundled data.

Additionally, you can get the device with the Smart 20 plan on a 12- or 18-month contract for BD79 or BD29 respectively.

The phone has been re-designed, re-engineered and re-invented to deliver a powerful and unique mobile computing experience combined with multimedia features and apps.

Customers will have access to a variety of applications and Internet usage, which runs on the BlackBerry 10 OS without having to subscribe to the BlackBerry service.

E Call 124 or visit www.viva.com.bh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AJM KOOHEJI GROUP

Smarter than Ever LG provides a simple, intuitive Smart TV user experience with an enhanced remote and expanded search and share capabilities.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Global leaders and technology innovators LG Electronics launches its new Smart TV line-up that is set to make a splash in Bahrain’s market. The electronics brand’s flagship model, the 55-inch LA 8600, defines smart control with its enhanced interface that allows users to easily access their favourite programmes.

The ‘Magic Remote’ has been redesigned to fine-tune content and menu navigation, making interaction as simple and intuitive as possible. The enhanced ‘Smart Share’ feature offers users the ability to mirror or transfer content from smart devices to TVs via a multitude of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Miracast.

The 2013 range enhances inter-device sharing by implementing Tag On, which immediately connects two devices for speedy media sharing. You simply need to hold a smartphone, or other NFC-enabled device, against the NFC sticker.

A steadily growing selection of content is available, including a handful of new local apps, which users will find informative and exciting. These include ADMCsport.com, Alaan TV, Zawya, Roya TV, LBC, City 7, CNBC Arabia, Shoof Al Kass, eTarab as well as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Styling of the models embodies LG’s minimalist cinema screen design. The TV’s bezels have been significantly reduced to provide a greater sense of immersion while the

stand further enhances the effect, enabling the screen to appear as if it is floating.

Both elegant and functional, the stand complements the screen without creating any visual distraction. This sleek formation effortlessly blends into any modern interior design scheme.

Additionally, the stand features a convenient swivel and roller function, allowing the TV to be repositioned with ease.

The Cinema 3D Smart TVs employ Film Patterned Retarder (FPR) technology for superior 3D viewing comfort. This uses lightweight glasses to create a comfortable viewing experience without the distracting flicker or crosstalk of active shutterstyle glasses. These models have won CES innovation award for their superiority in hardware and software.

“We always strive to provide the most engaging, most convenient user experience to consumers in the region. We have been singularly uncompromising, both in developing and improving the LG Smart TV platform. As a result, we are confident that our 2013 models will shatter all expectations and demonstrate that LG has moved the medium of Smart TV forward,” says DY Kim, president of LG Electronics in the Gulf region. LG in Bahrain is associated with AJM Kooheji Group.

E Call 17 404-590, 17 223-570 and 17 670-434.

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downtimeshowcase BATELCO

At Full Speed

Bahrain’s leading telecommunications company introduces the world’s slimmest smartphone, the Alcatel Onetouch Idol Ultra in addition to the BlackBerry Q10 and new superfast speed broadband packages.

In line with its efforts to deliver the most sought-after services, Batelco is the first in the Kingdom to deliver superfast speed with the launch of 1,000Mbps Home Broadband. The telecommunications leader has started rolling out access to Broadband via fibre optic (GPON) technology, which delivers superfast speed access to the Internet. This is in line with the national broadband plan initiated by the Bahrain’s government to provide fast speed connectivity to every household in the Kingdom.

“The launch of the advanced fibre technology is in line with our ongoing commitment to deliver the most advanced communications technology available to our customers,” said Batelco general manager-media relations, Ahmed Al Janahi.

“Delivery of faster broadband speeds is a core component of our business strategy that aims to meet all our customer segments’ needs and exceed their expectations.”

The company has presented three new packages, with speeds of up to 1,000Mbps, for prices starting from BD50. This will facilitate customers to instantly complete downloading movies, stream high definition videos, play online games and upload large files smoothly.

Batelco is delighted to invite customers to try the amazing speeds at its retail outlet in Bahrain City Centre; surf at the speed of light with this cutting-edge technology.

Pre-book the new BlackBerry The BlackBerry Q10 is the first smartphone based on the re-designed, re-engineered and re-invented BlackBerry 10 platform, giving customers a powerful and unique new mobile computing experience. It is the fastest and most advanced BlackBerry smartphone yet, offering customers a smarter experience that continuously adapts to their needs.

86 June 2013

Customers can pre-order the new BlackBerry Q10 smartphone at batelco.com.

“We recognise the important role that BlackBerry smartphones have come to play in the daily lives of individuals and enterprises and their widespread popularity worldwide. We take our commitment to meeting our subscribers’ changing needs seriously, and we strive to provide them with the latest technology to enhance their everyday lives,” Ahmed continues.

“Combined with network and service plans from Batelco, BlackBerry Q10 customers will be delighted with a re-invented communication experience, seamless multitasking, easy access to multiple social networks, and the peace of mind that BlackBerry security gives them,” said Carlo Chiarello, EVP, Global Smartphone Business at RIM. Two great packages with unlimited data To ensure the best deal for its customers, Batelco offers the must-have Alcatel Onetouch Idol Ultra bundled with a top value package, featuring unlimited data. For BD13 each month, on a 14-month contract, customers will receive the device and benefit from unlimited data and 80 minutes of calls across all networks.

The device has a slim case of 6.45mm in thickness, breaking the record as the slimmest smartphone in the world. It comes with rich and comprehensive specifications and functions.

Regarding the hardware, the model adopts a 1.2GHz dual-core CPU, 1GB RAM and runs on the Android 4.1 OS. It features a 4.7-inch HD AMOLED display embedded in a brushed metallic coating case with a trendy appearance and a comfortable feel. Visit any of Batelco’s conveniently located retail shops to experience the Alcatel Onetouch Idol Ultra first hand.

E Call 196 or 8000-8444; or visit www.batelco.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

music

Up the Punks Here’s a selection of the best hardcore/punk/alternative rock releases of the past month!

Daylight Jar

ON BUM M ALTHE

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RATING:

WHAT’S THE STORY? It’s often been said

TH

that grunge died out a long time ago. But recently, there seems to have been a resurgence of the genre; bands like Soundgarden have released an awesome new album, and Alice in Chains are releasing a follow-up to 2009’s Black Gives Way to Blue.

And this resurgence is also noticeable in the underground pop-punk scene. Here we have Daylight; based in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, the quartet have released their debut full-length ‘Jar’ which really shows so much promise.

WORTH A LISTEN?

Each track on the 12-track record is excellent in its own right. The second song, Life in a Jar, is by far one of the heaviest tracks on the album, with an opening riff which nods towards the likes of Alice in Chains and Soundgarden.

In on it, the first song the band released from the album, encapsulates everything great about grunge. It’s melancholic yet catchy, with utilisation of the Nirvana-inspired ‘stop-start’ song structure. One track that particularly stood out was the seventh Youngest Daughter with its deeply sombre lyrics.

Verdict: Jar is a spectacular album, and I would go as far to say that it is one of my favourite releases of the year!

TOP TRACKS: Life in a Jar and In On It Turnstile

Step 2 Rhythm East-coast punks Turnstile deliver an EP big on groove and even bigger on heaviness — in just under 20 minutes, this record produces bouncy riffs, punchy vocals and isn’t afraid to experiment with a lot of interesting ideas throughout!

Like the title suggests, the band has stepped it up in all aspects.

Must listen tracks inlude Canned Heat and Keep It Moving. A welcome breath of fresh air in the world of hardcore music, one thing that this group doesn't lack is sincerity.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Terror

Rotting Out

Live By The Code

The Wrong Way

Los Angeles hardcore-daddies Terror prove they’ve still got it with this blistering assault.

These guys are on top form churning out heavy and hardhitting tracks that put most other hardcore bands to shame — this is how to stay at the top of your game!

The latest release from LA’s Rotting Out reveals a lot of crossover thrash influence.

Some songs aren’t totally grounded, but with an abundance of punchy, fast and quite simply raw songs, the good outweighs the bad on this release!

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downtimecomputergames

Be The Hero!

TH GA E ME M ON TH

There’s a lot of fun, and a lot of familiar faces in this month’s newest gaming releases!

Dead Island Riptide (Xbox 360, PS3 & PC)

OF

The latest in the Dead Island series is an improvement from the previous instalment; a lot of bugs have been fixed, yet still this series feels as though it’s lacking something. Combat is pretty fun, but sadly a poor script lets this zombie RPG down.

Injustice: Gods Among Us (Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Fighting games are often hard to do a really good job with; the story mode is often very weak or the combat can be confusing and irritating. Injustice: Gods Among Us not only excels in combat, but has a pretty awesome storyline too! The game opens a whole new chapter in the world of DC Superheroes; players take on the role of Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Joker and many more classic characters from the DC universe and battle it out.

LEGO City Undercover: The Chase Begins (Nintendo 3DS)

Now on the 3DS, LEGO City Undercover feels as though it’s lost a lot of the charm that its Wii counterpart had a whole heap of! The gameplay isn’t as solid, and characters feel extremely two-dimensional and pretty contradictory for LEGO!

GRAPHICS:

Developers NetherRealm have created something that graphically feels like a Mortal Combat game — battle arenas are crafted spectacularly, and the characters still have that classic comic book feel to them!

GAMEPLAY: In terms of gameplay, Injustice most certainly excels! It may be

less violent than its predecessor Mortal Kombat, yet there’s still a dark and ominous undertone throughout the game.

One of the things I found particularly impressive is how interactive the arenas are.

There are a number of useable items in the stages, whether it be grenades in the Batcave, or the myriad of secret rooms you can launch opponents into in Arkham Asylum.

The fighting is equally as thrilling; each character has a selection of special moves, which can be devastating and quite frankly awesome to watch!

VERDICT: It’s rare for a fighting game to really stand out, but [ITALS] Injustice: Gods Among Us really delivers the goods, and where else can you see Batman and Superman fight each other?

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Donkey Kong Country Returns (3DS)

Everyone’s favourite ape is back! The latest Donkey Kong game is as fun as ever, as Donkey and Diddy make their way through beaches, jungles and caves to get those bananas!

While the 3D effects are impressive, they can also be slightly off-putting!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

websites

ITENTH O EBSM W THE

OF

Upworthy.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Upworthy.com is essentially a news site, with a variety of interesting articles. The general theme of the articles is that they are matters of importance and great interest.

THE GOOD: The design of the site is very appealing, with the most

important/popular articles clearly displayed on the front page and boxed together nicely. The site allows you to immediately share articles that peak your interest to your Facebook or Twitter, and there’s even an option to subscribe to the site’s email list so you can really stay up to date!

The site also allows you to search more specifically should you wish to do so; there are various categories to choose from, allowing you to find exactly what you’re looking for.

THE BAD:

There’s a slight feeling of pretentiousness about the site; while there are a myriad of interesting and enlightening articles, the overall tone could be presented in a more user-friendly format. But, of course, it’s hard to really come across in a sincere manner on the Internet, especially when the site specialises in ‘important articles’!

VERDICT: A cool little site that really is full of interesting and insightful articles — it’s sure to keep you busy!

Pixlr It may not be Photoshop, but this nifty little tool replicates a lot of that programme’s key features. It’s great for editing photos without forking out but, thankfully, quality isn’t sacrificed for price — it works really really well!

This Is My Jam Want to find out what all your friends are listening to? Then this site is perfect for you. The site allows you to connect via Facebook and Twitter and see what tracks your friends are most keen on!

Even if you can’t find your friends on it, you can still see what’s trending!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2013 89

downtimeapps

Ample Apps From games to social networking, this month’s hottest apps have it all!

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ebookers Travel It’s the fastest way to book flights, hotels and everything else travel-related on your iPhone or iPad. You can search for everything you need directly within the app as well as keep up to date with your current trip information and get exclusive mobile deals!

House of the Dead Overkill RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

The arcade game has now moved onto the smartphone in this awesome rendering of the awesome zombie shoot-em-up! The app is very reminiscent of its coinconsuming predecessor, with guns, gore and good times!

THE GOOD: This will definitely appeal to fans of the arcade version - each section has

the classic arcade-style layout to it, and controls are very easy to pick up. There are two different modes you can choose from within the game — story and survival. Survival mode is very similar to the Call of Duty Zombies mode; a seemingly never-ending swarm of the undead head keeping coming. You have to try and hold out for as long as possible. In terms of graphics, House of the Dead is impressive, yet not up to the standard of a lot of the new apps available, but where it may lack in exemplary graphics, it makes up for it in playability and gameplay in general.

THE BAD:

The game is not without fault. Sadly there are the cursed in-game purchases, which can be off-putting to those who like to keep their gaming experience on the cheap. Aside from these small grievances, the game is still an enjoyable and fun experience, and definitely a worthwhile addition to any smartphone’s app library - it’s not the cheapest of the gaming apps, but it’s definitely worth US$4.50.

VERDICT: An awesome rendition of an arcade favourite — fun, fast-paced and exciting!

90 June 2013

Sky Guide: View Stars Night or Day This awesome little app allows budding astronomers to view the stars in the easiest way possible! Simply aim your iPhone or iPad towards the sky to identify everything from stars to galaxies in no matter which direction you point!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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MOV M IE

movies

Star Trek: Into Darkness RATING: DIRECTED BY: J. J. Abrams STARRING: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Benedict Cumberbatch

THE PLOT:

After Starfleet is attacked and his good friend is killed by cold-hearted criminal John Harrison (Cumberbatch), Captain James Kirk (Pine) assembles the Enterprise crew and leads a federation manhunt to apprehend the terrorist, and avenge the fallen. But this renegade could prove to be the crew’s most dangerous threat yet.

WORTH WATCHING? Abrams has done a fantastic job

revitalising a much-loved franchise for a modern audience. The opening act of the movie is enormously thrilling, as we see the Enterprise crew trying to save a primitive race of creatures from being destroyed by a volcano.

His choice of casting is spot on; Quinto as Spock is fantastic.

VERDICT: A fantastic sequel and excellent addition to the new, 21st century Star Trek roster, Abrams is taking the franchise where no one has.

Mud An awesome take on a Mark Twain classic — Mud is bold, intelligent and thoroughly entertaining, with some interesting supernatural undertones.

McConaughey gives a captivating and enjoyable performance. One of the more interesting films of the month!

Perhaps its better off leaving this for home.

Iron Man 3 Big on action and a very smart and fast-paced superhero movie, this is Downey Jr at his best! Kingsley is also fantastic as the Mandarin, proving that superhero villains these days can be more interesting and three-dimensional. I would watch this many more times; I can’t get tired of it.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2013 91

downtimesatTV WHEN? Every Monday on OSN First HD

MOVIES

Seconds Apart After the death of four high school students, the last two playing Russian Roulette, Detective Lampkin investigates the case interviewing the students in the school. The teenager Katie Dunn mentions the weird twins, Jonah and Seth Trimble; Lampkin summons the brothers for interrogation. He is a traumatised man that lost his beloved wife in a fire and has deep scars not only on the face, but also in his soul.

After the deaths of Katie and the paedophile Kirby, Lampkin learns that the twins have an evil telepathic connection and are capable to make people live their worst nightmares. He goes further in his investigation and discovers that they are the result of an experiment. However, his superiors do not trust him and believe that he has hallucinations.

SERIES/SPECIALS

Game of Thrones (Season 3) The fantasy adventure Game of Thrones — the book turned into an HBO hit — is a favourite across the region. Thanks to slightly longer individual episodes, the third season will feature about an added hour of footage spread over its 10 instalments.

Right away, it’s obvious that this season will be bigger and better as the men in charge, David Benioff and DB Weiss describe it as the season theyve “been anticipating from the very beginning”. It’s the season the show has been building up to.

Viewers will undoubtedly praise the genius of Martin and the HBO producers. You’ll be introduced to a host of new characters: Olenna Tyrell also known as The Queen of Thorns played

by Diana Rigg, Mackenzie Crook as a wildling called Orell, Paul Kaye will play Thoros of Myr and Clive Russell will play Brynden ‘Blackfish’ Tully.

WHEN? OSN Action HD, June 1 The Makeover

WHEN? Every Tuesday on OSN First HD

WHEN? Every Sunday on OSN First HD

WHEN? Every Friday on OSN First HD

House of Cards (S1)

Scandal (S2)

Smash

An uncompromising exploration of the American way, the series orbits Francis Underwood (Kevin Spacey), the House Majority Whip.

Underwood is the politician’s politician He and his equally ambitious wife Claire (Robin Wright) stop at nothing to ensure their ascendancy.

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Olivia has left her role as White House communications director for the President to start her own crisis management firm. She hoped to start a new chapter in her life, both professionally and personally, but can’t seem to shake loose from the ties to her past.

The musical drama that celebrates the beauty and heartbreak of the Broadway Theatre is back with all-new episodes. In Season 2, the ‘Bombshell’ team is one step closer to achieving their Broadway dream. But they are all about to learn that they cannot avoid their past.

Priest

This is an update of George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion that changes the genders of the main characters. Hannah Higgins attempts to turn bluecollar Boston beer vendor Elliot Doolittle into a viable candidate and inadvertently learns something of Elliot’s side of life.

The post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller is set in an alternate world. The story revolves around a legendary warrior priest from the last vampire war who now lives in obscurity among the other downtrodden human inhabitants in dystopian cities.

WHEN? OSN Movies HD, June 1

WHEN? OSN Action HD, June 1

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Azadea Sports Tournament The Azadea Group held the finals of the Azadea Sports Tournament at the Batelco Club in Hamala last month

Committee Members - Dalia, Jennie, Natasha, Maher, Hussein, Rajith, Nishel, Hanine & Ian

Evangeline, Bianca, Esmarlyn & Ahmed

Sadiq & Ahmed

Nishel, Hussein, Natasha, Ali Saeed & Rajith

Bernice & Zahra

K. Surangga & Jennie

Zara Seef team - football winners

Mahmoud & Richmond

George & Farid

Back office Team - volleyball winners

Husain & Mohammed Saffar

Awali Ladies Hospitality Group Car Boot Sale The Awali Ladies Hospitality Group held its annual Car Boot Sale at the Bapco Club in Awali last month

Shandra & Valerie

Roxana & Suha

Nivedita, Saeed Abdul Rahman, Ahmed, Mrs Saeed, Bernadette & Layla

One of the stalls at the event

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Reena & Dipu

Ann, Sandra & Mariam

Bernie & Philip

Susan

Sam

Rasheeda & Fatima

Clare & Frances

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Greek Easter Lunch The Greek community in Bahrain held an Easter lunch at the Diplomat Radisson Blu, Residence & Spa last month

Fay & Iro

Tassos, Lia, Stauros, Andreas & Vasiliki

Alex & Viktoriya

Julie, Sergio & Manuel

Dana & Irene

Papavlasopoulos & Georgios

Panos & Francesco with members of the Greek community

Diana & Irina

Chris & Katia

Ahmed, Abdulla & Anna

Ioannis, Lena, Georgia & Kostas

“Ten Years Of Magical Cuisine�

Celebrate your birthday at award-winning Maki Bahrain Restaurant with our new, delectable birthday cakes, and a special array of sumptuous Japanese fusion creations.

Bahrain World Trade Center, West Tower, King Faisal Highway, Manama: + 973 17522733 / + 973 36999102 /makirestaurant

@makirest

@makirest

www.olivermaki.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Amwaj Marina Market Amwaj Islands hosted its outdoor market at the Amwaj Marina last month and showcased various products, such as vintage clothes, handmade jewellery, art works, traditional art and crafts, clothes made by local designers, cupcakes, skin products as well quirky and fun gifts Mariam, Rama & Fadi

Anna & Nargis Rayan, Aziz & Noora

Fatima & Mai

Jameela & Sawsan

Yasmeen, Reema & Leah

Hayley & Laura

Domitille, Thomas & Julia

Tracy & Melissa

Liesel & Justyna

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Carole & Sarah

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Visions Art Exhibition 2013 The American Women's Association (AWA) held its annual Visions Art Exhibition at the Arts Centre, besides the Bahrain National Museum. HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador attended the exhibition held last month

Millie, Salwa, Ameera & Noor

Julia, Julia, Bianca & Iro

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Laila, Lisa, Seema, Bonnie Krajeski, HE Thomas Krajeski, Irina, Dr Salman & Zakeya

Fayaz, Shahnaz, Lynne & Mahin

Miland, Faraz, Liliane, Janet, Jack & Baz

Beverley & Mustafa

Eva

Anne

Lisa & Nadia

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ILA Mela 2013 The Indian Ladies Association (ILA) organised Mela 2013, which featured fun, food, games and entertainment.

The event attended by HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, ILA members and a number of families was held at the Indian Club last month

Florine & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Manju, Sushma, Pallavi & Michelle

Sunanda, Nalini, Ashalatha, Nivedita & Reena

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Ashalatha, Kamlesh, Chitra, Mala Kumar, Sujita, Shantini & Shree

Mythrayee, Aysha, Usha & Vani

Nalani & Tanuja

Shiney, Hansul & Shanthini

Marietta & Florine

Asha & Suhasini

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BMMI Hops Festival BMMI held a Hops Festival with 25-plus different brews from ten countries on offer, at the Bahrain Yacht Club

Lauren, Ian, Karen, Nicole & Sophie

Roze, Sam, Angel, Karen & Sophie

Kat & Pranesh

Paul, James, Shiva & Yusuf

Cassidy, Jared, Elise & Benny

Arun & Abha

Kwame, Vita & Gina

Kal & Ian

Francesco, Gina, Vito, Giuseppe & Zahi

Mark & Laura

Yusuf, Nilantha & Murthy

Rajeev

Lights, Camera, Fashion Event Lights, Camera, Fashion, held a networking event titled 'Shine Your Inner Light'. The event held at the InterContinental Regency featured Sadaf A Ryan, a guest inspirational speaker, Rehan Alam, a public speaker, trainer and entrepreneur from the UK and May Al Qassim, a young Bahraini singer and songwriter

Ali, Sadaf A Ryan, Hamra Alam & Mohsen Hassan

Diana, Ilham, Imtiaz, Shai & Juraid

Rehan Alam

Hayat, Shiltmon & Hamza

May Al Qassim

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fariel & Samrina

Elham, Mariam & Lubna

Nibras & Ameera

Omair & Fariya

Faisal & Zubair

Qausain & Sidrah

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Gulf Jazz Festival At La Fontaine Under the patronage of the Italian Embassy in Bahrain, the Gulf Jazz Festival 2013 was held at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art, in association with the Cracovia Music Agency. The event featured internationally renowned Italian jazz pianist Roberto Magris as well as jazz-pop singer Maria Dal Rovere

Maria Dal Rovere

Fatima, Adel, Mona & HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador

Marco, Shandra, HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador, Mona, Zeina, Jehan, Adel, Filippo & Cristina

AD for BTM bFit Summer.pdf Hambert & Silvia

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5/20/13

Ahmed & Maram

Colby & Danielle

Bjarne, Tony & Mohie

Carlo & Luke

4:47 PM Jarna & Arup

Edmondo & Duaa

Enrica & Eleonora

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International Nurses Day Celebrations The Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH) held an International Nurses Day celebration for members of staff at the hospital's coffee shop last month

Dr Najah, Dr Kasim, Dr Kareem & Abbas

Dr Kasim

Ramya & Emma

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Ala'a Al Zayani, Dr Najah & Dr Kasim

Sayaw Sa Cuyo Dance team

Arlene, Aimee & Annette

Lucila & Lopez

Mohammed & Anoop

Sumitha & Haby

Asha & Jones

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The Ford Roadshow 2013 Almoayyed Motors, sole distributors for Ford vehicles in the kingdom, held an event to announce the arrival of the Ford Tech Trailer in Bahrain. The Tech Trailer has captivated people around the world by showcasing the Ford automotive technologies in an interactive manner. The event was held at the Ford showroom in Sitra last month Sandeep & Mohammed

Dharmesh

Mohammed, Dharmesh, Sandeep & Zainab

The Ford Tech Trailer console

102 June 2013

Sandeep & Farheen

Laura & Marise

Dhanajai & Hassan

Zainab & Aldred

Pooja

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Dutch Oranjebal 2013 To mark the abdication of Holland's Queen Beatrix and the appointment of her replacement, her oldest son, King Willem Alexander, the Dutch Association Bahrain and Saudi Eastern Province, in collaboration with Crowne Plaza and Lulu Hypermarket held Oranjebal 2013 by the hotel's patio by the pool. HE Nicolaas Beets, Dutch Ambassador to Kuwait, acting Honorary Consul Jaap W Vaandrager and members of the Dutch community attended the event

Diethard with HE Nicolaas Beets

Jam, Sita & Aebele

Viera & Pascal

Jan Aart, Yolanda & Gerard

Michael, Minette & Jamie

Jaap & Wendy Vaandrager with Anne & John Radic

Jody & Marlous

Peter & Mirk

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Carien & Manfred

Dan & Ramzi

Margreet, Myrthe, Bente & Lawrence

Alan & Bay

Chef Saravanan

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KIA Launch A.A. Bin Hindi held a fun launch for two new KIA automobiles - the KIA Cadenza 2014 model & the redesigned KIA Carens 2014 model at the Bahrain City Centre. Guests were treated to a tribute to Korean music artist Psy and his sensational Gangnam Style

The 2014 KIA Cadenza with Bahrain's own Psy

Tazin, Ahmed Bin Hindi, Mohammed Bin Hindi & Momen

John Joseph, Stephanie, Mahasum & Momen

Natalia & Mohammed

Mary & Mo

Gangnam Style at the KIA launch

Amr & Ahmed

Abdul Hameed Hatim, Mohammed bin Hindi & Abdulla

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RE Art Exhibition An art exhibition titled RE featuring 4 artists, Giuse Maggi, Loraine Todd, Louise Greenfield and Jody Peck was held at The Waterline Art Gallery, West Atrium, Harbour Mall, Bahrain Financial Harbour last month

Jill & Mier

Arantka & Pam

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Farrah Duff & Louise Greenfield

Louise explains her work to a guest

Leon & Hassan

Peter, Khalid & Jenine

Sonia, Faye, Adnan & Loraine

Closa & Bronwen

Ghada, Dalia & Yasmin

Sarah & Mariam

Beatriz & Stuart

Sarah

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Ina & Gerard Schenk Wedding Anniversary Ina & Gerard Schenk hosted a party for a number of friends to celebrate there 30th wedding anniversary

Zainab & Faisal

Des & Kimmi

Ina & Gerard

Ina & Georgia

Monique, Ina & Mark

Deb & Gwen

Maria & Susanne

Gerry, Manon, Lieka & Peter

Robert & Phil

Julie, Ann, Bev & Amanda

Gerard, Tom & Han

Jody, Ian, Ina, Gerard, Des & Niels

P.O. Box 600, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Contact: 17725794 or 39334213 Email: cpd@agabahrain.com

106 June 2013

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Kannada Actor Darshan's Visit Shantharam & Ashalatha Shetty played host to well known Kannada film actor and film producer Darshan at their residence last month. The actor was accompanied by Anuradha, well known Kannada playback singer, Anupama, a TV Host and Gopi, a comedian and mimicry artist

Ashalatha, Darshan & Shantharam

Dheeptha, Shantharam, Hemant, Anuradha, Anupama, Ashalatha & Gopi

Vijayendra, Darshan & Girish

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Gopi, Kamala & Pradeep

Ashalatha, Darshan, Shantharam & Dheeptha

Anuradha, Anupama, Ashalatha & Hemant

Amar, Shantharam, Darshan & Mansoor

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H채cker Kitchens Launch A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to mark the launch of H채cker Kitchens, at the Closets Hamala Showroom

Holger & Dr Hassan Abdulla cut the ribbon

Mehmood, Ilham, Abhie, Yousif & Hussain

Yousif, Hussain, Sadiq, Hassan & Mehmood

108 June 2013

Dr Hassan, Holger & Willi

Hassan, Yasser & Ali

94mm (w) x 125mm (h) with 3mm bleed

Raed & Ali

One of the kitchens on display

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Layla Jivanjee Birthday Party Layla Jivanjee celebrated her 5th birthday with family & friends at her compound in Saar last month

Layla

Layla's Hawaiian themed cake

Beliz, Layla, Alexa & Renata

Riyaz, Michelle, Layla & Dawn

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Aayat & Nina

Riyaz, Layla & Michelle

Matthieu & Ines

Mae & William

Jamila

Alisha & Elizabeth

Dana

Ishita

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Romina Vecchi Cheque Presentation Romina Vecchi, wife of HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador hosted a reception for a number of guests at her residence in Saar. At the event, Romina presented a cheque on behalf of the Italian Embassy to Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa, Chairman, Mother & Children's Welfare Society. The money was raised at the Italian Embassy's stand during the 2013 annual International Embassies Bazaar for The Mother & Children's Welfare Society

Rabab, Fatima, Romina, Meher & Maggi

Shaikha Hind, Romina & Mahfooda

Romina Vecchi presents the cheque to Shaikha Hind

Maggi, Cristina, Simonetta, Anna, Monica, Simona, Giuliane, Maya & Romina

Panos, Romina & Francesco

Romina, Giuliane & Simonetta

Monica & Gianna

Maybank Asean Cup 2013 Gala Dinner On behalf of the Malaysian Club of Bahrain (MCB), HE Ahmed Shahizan Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador hosted the Maybank Asean Cup 2013 Gala Dinner. The dinner held at Crowne Plaza Hotel included dance performances from participating countries and a prize giving to the winners of this year's Maybank Asean Cup football tournament

Ram & Meena

HE Ahmed Shahizan Abd Samad, Nor Hayati, Vaheeda & Mohammed Mashood

Doris, Lea & Atiqah

The champions - Team Thailand with diplomats & officials

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HE Sahid Glang, Philippines Ambassador

Zaty, Beeha, Cristina & Dijah

HE Vichai Varasirikul, Thai Ambassador, HE Ahmed Shahizan Abd Samad & Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Vanessa & David

Pascal & Viera

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringthismonth

On the Throne Hyundai Motor Company’s new flagship model has overthrown the usual contenders to be crowned with top honours.

The reputed Middle East car magazine, Automobile, has named the Centennial as the best luxury full-sized car of 2013. The model was launched in the region earlier this year to challenge the established names in the luxury car sector. It boasts significantly enhanced interiors with the addition of a range of cutting-edge features and the introduction of two new, high performance GDI engines.

“Receiving this award just a few months after the new 2014 Centennial’s launch is a great honour. The outgoing model won 2012 Car of the Year from Sport Auto magazine, so it’s nice to enjoy yet more recognition for our luxury segment model from Middle East automotive experts. It’s a true testament to how far we have come as an automotive company that we now produce cars that meet and exceed the highest quality standards,” says Tom Lee, vice president and head of Hyundai’s Middle East regional headquarters.

The low-down The 2014 version exudes quality with high-class leather and wood trim all around the cabin. The dashboard has been totally redesigned as have the rear seats, which now offer even greater comfort.

Passengers in the back can enjoy new dual 9.2-inch LCD rear monitor entertainment screens and control their travel Also this month

112 x Showcase

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experience via a new DIS system. To ensure premier standards of comfort, the electronically controlled multi-link suspension has been fine-tuned, while an air suspension option is also available.

For the first time, Centennial is equipped with Hyundai’s acclaimed GDI engines. It delivers maximum power of 430ps, a top speed of 240kph plus zero to 100kph in 5.8 seconds.

Ground-breaking assets A number of high-tech features are made available for the first time. For improved safety, a head-up display projects speed and navigation information on the windscreen, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road, while a blind spot detection system alerts the driver to any vehicles or objects that are in the car’s blind spots.

A smartphone touchscreen-style user experience is provided by the innovative Haptic Steering Wheel. An allaround view monitor utilises small front-, side- and rearmounted cameras to project a 360-degree view of the area surrounding the vehicle onto the driver’s information screen, making parking easier.

The previous version of Hyundai’s flagship car had already enjoyed significant success in the Middle East, where sales grew to 244 per cent in 2012, and across the world. In North America, research by influential automotive industry forecaster, ALG, confirmed that the Centennial enjoys stronger residual values than the BMW’s 7-Series, the Mercedes Benz’s S-Class and the Audi A8.

The Ultimate Volvo The Polestar is arguably the most glamorous and lightning-quick Volvo concept car ever made. The S60 Polestar Concept delivers the genuine Volvo driving experience with a high level of power and handling.

The turbocharged, inline sixcylinder engine has been tuned to deliver a considerable increase in power and torque.

The 508horsepower and 575Nm of torque seem to dwarf the numbers associated with those found in the T6 engine of the production car: 304horsepower and 440Nm of torque.

The combination of a lowered, widened and reinforced chassis, a tuned Haldex all-wheel-drive system and Öhlins suspension makes the car uniquely suitable for both high-performance driving and long-distance travelling.

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ZAYANI MOTORS

Ride in Style The Peugeot 301 is positioned at the heart of its segment, offering modern styling and features set to fulfil the expectations of diverse consumer markets.

The new model incorporates the latest stylistic codes of the Marque offering a design of refined character and appearance and creating an aura of strength. At 4.44 meters long, 301 sets itself apart with an optimised and generous structure, putting it a step ahead of the competition.

The benchmark characteristics in its class include record occupant space in the rear seats, legroom of 121mm and boot volume of 640 litres. Drivers can also enjoy safe handling combined with a high level of comfort like never before.

The wide range of safety equipment available includes up to four airbags and emergency braking assistance. Also, the range of latest-generation petrol engines is perfectly suited to the expectations of the target markets in the Middle East with the 115bhp of its automatic gearbox.

A family vehicle, safe and reliable with great driving pleasure, the Peugeot 301 incorporates modern comfort equipment which guarantees an excellent level of features and comfort on board.

Some of its features are electronic air conditioning and an MP3 audio system with Bluetooth hands-free kit and USB connection.

Remote opening of the boot combined with rear parking assistance further elevates the car’s comfort elements.

The compact saloon starts at BD4,999; to take it for a spin, visit Zayani Motors, the exclusive Peugeot distributor in the Kingdom.

E Call 17 703-703.

112 June 2013

Remarkable engineering The four-cylinder petrol block with 16 valves in a light alloy was launched with the Peugeot 408. It is fitted with an inlet camshaft with a continuously variable timing system (VVT) and accepts octane indices ranging from RON 87 without any deterioration in performance.

As with the three-cylinder engine, considerable work has been carried out to reduce friction. The result is a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, increased by the adoption of a variable output oil pump. Its maximum power is 85kW and the maximum torque of 150Nm is reached at 4,000rpm. This modern engine complies with the Euro 5 standards.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AL HADDAD MOTORS

In Top Form With new, efficient engines, assistance systems and a design idiom, Mercedes-Benz has comprehensively modernised the E-Class to extend its leading position in the luxury segment.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

In the new E-Class, no less than 11 new or optimised assistance systems from the future S-Class celebrate their world premiere. They combine a host of comfort and safety features, all of which the German automaker refers to as ‘intelligent drive’. They include systems which, for the first time, can help prevent accidents with crossing vehicles or pedestrians. The active lane-keeping assist can help prevent crashes with oncoming traffic.

The new E-Class makes a significant step forward when it comes to efficiency and ecology, owing to the new, powerful engines featuring sophisticated direct injection technology.

With its new design the model encapsulates intelligence and emotional appeal in a visually superior manner. It offers a considerably sharpened design with a cultivated, elegantly sporty look, enhanced comfort and driving pleasure. As a result, the E-Class continues to consolidate its leading position in the luxury class.

“With the new model we set down clear markers in the areas of safety, design and efficiency. It brings lots of technical innovations to the road and is without doubt the best E-Class ever. This is also reflected in its design and lovingly revised interior. As a result, it brings a breath of fresh air to the luxury class. The E, therefore, continues to stand for the leading position in this demanding segment,” says Graeme Newport, general manager of Al Haddad Motors, authorised general distributor of Mercedes-Benz.

A closer look The interior has been visibly reworked and harmonised with the expressive exterior. High-quality materials and refined, subdivided areas with precise joints and sharp curves underscore the overall impression of the generous interior.

A new feature line and a repositioned three-dimensional trim strip gives the saloon new, visually exciting proportions. The feature line runs below the structure line from the rear door through to the tail light. Visually this benefits the vehicle in terms of length. It underscores the side trim, which has been shifted downwards.

Overall the E-Class looks more elongated and elegant, yet at the same time both dynamic and composed. A new feature is the two-part trim which stretches across the entire dashboard.

It can be selected in a wood or aluminium look, irrespective of the equipment line. Other additions are the design of the air vents and an analogue clock between the two central air vents.

E Call 17 785-454.

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ALMOAYYED MOTORS

Wheel Deals

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114 June 2013

Almoayyed Motors, the authorised dealer of Ford in Bahrain, has launched a summer campaign that offers customers a selection of high-tech vehicles at highly competitive prices. The 2013 Edge offers a bold aerodynamic exterior consisting of fluid shapes and a smooth roof, giving it a fearless look. Besides looking great, it comes with a V6, 2.5-litre engine and 286-horsepower, making it an impressive performer. The Edge also provides drivers with technology at their fingertips, including the SYNC and MyFord Touch systems. What’s more, prices start from BD10,795.

The 2013 Escape takes capability up a level. Equipped with an L4, 2.4-litre engine and 168-horsepower, this SUV also comes with Ford’s signature technologies, including the active park assist and keyless push-button-start advancements. Starting from only BD8,600, the Escape is ideal for families looking for a powerful drive and big cargo capacity.

Alternatively, the new Taurus comes with a V6, 3.5-litre engine and 263-horsepower; it represents advanced engineering that utilises a six-speed SelectShift Automatic Gearbox and an electric power-assisted steering system. With a starting price of BD9,950 and a newly assertive design, the Taurus is the ultimate powerful and innovative sedan. To experience Ford’s innovations and capabilities, book your test drive today and visit Almoayyed Motors in Sitra. E Call 17 737-373.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Payal & Alym Engagement Party Payal Patel & her fiancé Alym celebrated their engagement in Dubai with a Mexican themed party which was attended by family and friends. The party was held at Payal's residence in Sehla

Alym & Payal

Karli, Darren, Charlaine, Chirag & Zilia

Dona, Hanin, Rama & Joseph

Tarryn & Sandeep

Chirag, Jayu, Hemant Alym, Payal & Urvashi

Francis, Charlaine & Carmen

Danielle & Chirag

Ryan, Nadia & Azza

Gonzales & Isabella

HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Telecommunications Affairs was welcomed by Batelco's CEO Rashid Abdulla when HE visited Batelco’s Salmaniya Operations Complex, as part of his scheduled visits to telecommunications companies in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Seen here HE Shaikh Fawaz, 2nd from right, Rashid Abdulla, right with Batelco’s general managers & senior managers

First Motors, the exclusive dealers of Hyundai in the Kingdom of Bahrain, in collaboration with CGS Al Saadi Refrigeration Air Conditioning (CGS Bahrain) now provides customers with optimum Chillers and Freezers Transportation Solutions to suit their requirements. Seen here, Sooraj Kumaran, Fleet sales manager, First Motors & Irshad Annan, manager of CGS Bahrain

Golden Tulip Bahrain Hotel held a training session ‘E’ Commerce’ conducted by their MENA Regional E’ Commerce manager, Antonella Chahwan.

Seen in the picture with the management team, the employees who attended the training; from right, Mezel Al Majed, Rawan Nasaif, Sajitha Ramesh, Jasmin Dinio, Jennifer Caldeira, Younis Ahmed, Abdulrahim Al Sayed, Antonella Chahwan, Nasser Khalaf, Hasan Al Shehabi, George Issa, Mohammed Al Shefie & Saad Al Shehri

Almoayyed Motors, the authorised dealer for Ford in Bahrain, announced the winner of their F150 event, Thamer Yaqoob. The display that was set up at Bahrain City Center allowed visitors to customize their own F150 trucks and enter a draw to win a jet ski. Seen here, Thamer Yaqoob with Sandeep Mathur & Almoayyed Motors officials

116 June 2013

Samsung launched its 2013 Samsung Smart TV lineup in Bahrain. Samsung and its dealers Techno Blue officials attended the launch event at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa. Seen here are, Moon Seak Hwang, Mohammed Al Hawaj, Jawad Y. Al Hawaj, Abdulwahab Al Hawaj, Ahmed Al Hawaj & Mustafa Kamal

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningthismonth

Modern Asian Cuisine Elma Bartholomew America’s leading Chinese bistro has opened its doors at Bahrain City Centre, offering exquisite dishes and superior service.

The arrival of the world famous Chinese restaurant, PF Chang’s, in the Kingdom of Bahrain builds the brand’s presence in the Middle East, following successful outlets in Kuwait and the UAE. PF Chang’s is an international brand offering stylish, Chinese-inspired cuisine combined with American hospitality in a sophisticated bistro setting featuring a contemporary design and superior service.

The new branch offers a seating capacity of 265 and promises an extraordinary culinary journey inspired by tastes from five regions of China, starting with Mongolia and Sichuan to Beijing, Shanghai and Hunan along with a variety of signature Asian delicacies on the a la carte menu.

All the food is made to order using only the freshest ingredients and cooked in a Northern-style Chinese wok fired by a 900 degree Fahrenheit flame which creates “wok hay” or “breath of wok”. The unique smoky, caramelised flavours and crispy textures can only be achieved using this age-old traditional technique. They use fresh, never frozen, chicken breasts and flank steaks that are hand-trimmed each day in their kitchens.

“We are thrilled to bring PF Chang’s to the Bahrain Also this month

community on a significant occasion which also marks the brand’s milestone 20th anniversary,” said Genaro Perez, vice president of international marketing.

“The menu illustrates the emerging influence of Southeast Asia with a modern Chinese and American flare; our new local diners will experience a wonderful journey of fine taste and contemporary ambience.”

A look inside At PF Chang’s the staff is committed to providing you with an exceptional dining experience every time you walk through their doors. You are surrounded by a unique environment combining influences of Chinese and American cultures. The ambience of the restaurant is adorned with rich colours and textures and features a panoramic, hand-painted mural depicting ancient China whilst several terra-cotta warriors stand guard around the main dining room.

Slate, wood, metal and dyed concrete are combined with earth tones and dramatic lighting to create a stunning visual presentation. These elements showcase the cuisine and create a stylish, comfortable, upbeat dining experience for guests.

Diners are treated to the restaurant’s delectable culinary portfolio menu, which boasts signature dishes such as dynamite shrimp, Chang’s chicken lettuce wraps, and Mongolian beef.

PF Chang’s accepts walk-in guests or reservations for large parties. E Call 17 179-757.

118 x Happenings - 120 x Far Eastern Cuisine - 128 x Restaurant Listing

www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? June 1-30 Event? Food promotion Venue? Skyw@lk Café, Marriott Executive Apartments Order Arabian mixed grills to get a complimentary mezze platter.

E Call 17 363-999 When? June 1-15 Event? Cooking contest Venue? Baharat, Kempinski Ixir Hotel Do you think your recipes are of five-star quality? Prove it.

E Call 17 171-144.

When? June 3, 10, 17, 24 Event? Food festival Venue? Fiamma, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Sample the different types of pasta on display from 7-10.30pm at BD12.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? June 15-21 Event? Food promotion Venue? The Lobby Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa With summer hitting its peak, what could be better than enjoying iced coffee?

E Call 17 586-499.

When? June 26 Event? Theme night Venue? Mondo, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Indulge in a five-course meal prepared with different wines.

E Call 17 525-210 or 17 525-450.

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Holy Month in Baharat. The venue has also launched a special value promotion for families who dine at their Friday brunch.

The family package offers the buffet spread, play area and all the usual services at BD70++, for two adults and two children (below the age of 12).

Award-winning restaurant Maki gives you the chance to sample as many of their dishes as possible in a single visit.

Join their monthly dining festival ’15 Magical Moments’ on June 11 for a taste of 15 distinct flavours at BD15.

Summer can only mean one thing [DASH] mangoes; a lot of them. Sheraton Bahrain Hotel celebrates the luscious fruit every Tuesday and Wednesday this month at Illy Café. This is perhaps what they truly mean by the term ‘indulgence’.

Can’t Have Enough If there is one thing you should never settle for, it’s mediocre food. Treat your taste buds to the finest in the culinary world.

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The Pasta Night is probably one of the biggest promotions at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa to date, featuring ‘all you can eat’ home-made pasta and pizza cooked to your preference over a live cooking station by Italian chef Stefano Tansini. You can even decide to. In addition to this, a mouthwatering antipasti station will be displayed for starters as well as two complimentary selected alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. The live entertainment will be provided by Christian and Antonina.

Indulge in ‘Cold Infusions’, a rich blend of chocolate, icecream flavours and crème variations of cold Italian Illy coffee at the lobby lounge in The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa between June 15 and 21. Illy is a single blend of premium quality espresso coffee made of nine varieties of pure Arabica with a perfect balance of beans coming from South America, Central America, India and Africa.

Email your favourite recipe with a photo of your dish to restaurants.bahrain@kempinski.com between June 1 and 15.

The three best entries will win a spot in a cook-off that will determine the ultimate winner, who will have his/her dish featured in the five-star hotel’s Ramadan menu throughout the

Special offers Try out the organic pizza promotion at any of the food and beverage venues at Al Bander Hotel & Resort: Café Marisol, Pool Bar and Boatyard Bar. Block 338 has a bunch of exciting promotions this month. For summer they have a special range of cocktails and mocktails. The breakfast service has been extended from 11am to 6pm; talk about ‘all day’! If you’re grabbing lunch at the restaurant, then make sure to bring a friend so you can have your meal at half the price. That’s right; buy one to get one free from noon to 4pm.

Aroma Restaurant & Café in Seef Mall offer the lunch box dish of the day at the unbelievable price of BD2.900. They accept orders for delivery as well.

Skyw@lk Café at Marriott Executive Apartments has come up with a new offer. In June, if you buy an Arabic mixed grill, you get an Oriental mezze platter for free!

New entrants Wok, the Asian restaurant at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, has hired a new chef from Vietnam. Visit the venue to try out the new recipes by Hoang Minh Duong.

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa has also introduced a new chef to their kitchens. Vito Fornelli takes over the role of executive chef to oversee its five restaurants and bars, in-room dining and meetings and events. He brings over 16 years of experience to the hotel, having kicked off with the launch of the ‘wine and dine’ concept in the Italian restaurant, Mondo.

Have you checked out the fresh spin that Paul Bakery & Restaurant has put on its menu with new dishes complementing its extensive list of classic French favourites? It features dishes like salade de crevettes a la mangue, poulet roti aux amandes and tartine ay saumon. For quick pick-me-ups, try the café surprise and pain perdu.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE K HOTEL

Try Them All A perfect way to sample a complete menu and the offerings of a hotel is to dine on any of their theme nights; save your Tuesdays for an exceptional Arabian buffet.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The K Hotel’s Kenza Restaurant offers a unique Arabian buffet on Tuesday nights, giving guests a comprehensive glimpse of the complete menu while dining in a romantic ancient Arabian setting.

Lit sparingly, the highlight is the indoor cold-food buffet serving appetisers, salads, fruits and desserts. Kenza does everything right with a stylish panache in a feel-good atmosphere. Several family rooms are available for privacy and for groups, but it is the large outdoor patio that really makes the difference.

Located on the first floor of the hotel, this venue provides an authentic Arabic dining experience. With one-of-a-kind lanterns and sofas plus the gardens and whimsical lighting, the outdoor area has a truly unique feel and ambience. Warm summer nights lend themselves to Kenza’s patio; breathe in fresh air, talk to friends or enjoy shisha in a selection of flavours under the stars.

The Arabian buffet boasts live cooking stations, featuring ‘build your own shawarma’ made with freshly baked breads cooked before your eyes. Select the number and types of kebabs you desire from an array of options; they are delivered to your table when cooked perfectly by your chef.

To the side of the cooking station is a selection of hot dishes. Biryani, soups, pasta and a selection of warm appetisers such as kibbeh can be matched to the cold hummus and moutabel. While the buffet, offered at BD8++, is not the totality of the Lebanese restaurant’s offerings, it is a great way to sample the cuisine and to get a taste of what else is on the menu.

Few restaurants introduce you to their fuller menus as does The K Hotel; even fewer have the ability to offer them with both indoor and outdoor options. While the designers of the patio must be applauded, it is the chefs and the attendant staff who will draw you back.

Kenza is open throughout the week from 7pm until 2am except Mondays; the Arabian buffet on Tuesday nights is available from 7-11pm.

E Call 17 360-000.

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diningfareasterncuisine

Grab Your Chopsticks!

Think back to the last time you had Chinese, Thai, or, perhaps, some Japanese food. The odds are that it wasn’t that long ago.

In Bahrain, Far Eastern food has achieved the kind of omnipresence that sees it given a starring role on pub menus and in supermarket ready meals. It has won Michelin stars and spawned thousands of takeaways. Vietnamese and Korean, once novel, have become commonplace in many a city centre.

‘Pho’ no longer sounds like a half-formed word; it sounds like what it is — a steaming bowl of Vietnamese rice noodles.

It seems lately that no continent has gotten more culinary exposure than Asia. Fusion fare and the cuisines of specific Far East nations have appeared just about everywhere within the Venice of America. With so many choices, it’s tough to know where to go for the best food you can find. So here’s the skinny on where to fatten up with the most delectable dumplings and noodles around.

Fine dining options A great place to begin your odyssey is five-star hotels. They’ve got some of the best chefs from around the world equipped with decades of expertise. A must-visit is the Asian restaurant in The Gulf Hotel. China Garden is designed in a modern oriental style, offers a varied selection of food influenced by distinct Chinese regions creating Cantonese, Szechuan and Peking specialities.

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Sato makes the perfect location for those looking for a genuine insight into Japanese cuisine and culture. One of the hotel’s most unique eateries, Fusions prides itself on its creative, modern and imaginative cuisine. It is a contemporary and stylish rooftop restaurant boasting unrivalled views. Royal Thai never fails to impress discerning guests. The restaurant is situated in a grand pagoda in the grounds of the hotel’s tropical gardens and provides scenic views overlooking the turquoise waters of the outdoor swimming pool.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa offers authentic Southeast Asian cuisine with a kitchen that can be viewed from the dining room at Wok. Enjoy the spectacle of lights and flavours either indoors or out on the terrace. Savour the genuine flavours of China at Soie in Sheraton Bahrain Hotel.

Gather with friends, family and business partners in this pleasant ambience and enjoy mouth-watering dishes.

The popular Japanese restaurant Kei in Golden Tulip offers traditional recipes carefully prepared by experienced chefs.

Although not a five-star venue, Orchid Thai at Ramada Palace is a favourite amongst many. There is word of a Japanese restaurant named Imari coming up in The Domain Bahrain in the Diplomatic Area.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

In the malls The elegance, modesty and piety of the Japanese culture, complemented by extravagant, healthful and delectable ingredients have transformed Maki into what it is today — a culinary haven! Located in Moda Mall, it transcends the boundaries of culture and country, embodying what fusion cuisine is all about.

In Seef Mall, you can find a range of Asian restaurants like Ching and Rice Bowl. A venue that stands out, however, is Frangipani with the live cooking concept, where you can interact with the chefs. A fairly new entrant is The Noodle House, which speaks for itself.

Yo! Sushi in A’Ali Shopping Complex has an interesting concept with a belt of food travelling through the venue. They even offer colour-coded plates to make the dining experience more straight-forward. The bundle packages introduced recently is perhaps their best promotion to date.

Bahrain City Centre, unsurprisingly, has a larger line-up of Pan Asian venues. With the recent opening of PF Chang’s, foodlovers have been swarming the mall for a taste of goodness.

Catch our review for our review of the spectacular bistro. The complex also boasts Rice Bowl and Memories. In the food court, you can find Sugoi and Hot Wok, catering to those who are looking for a quick meal.

The dining district You think food and you think Adliya, for good reason of course.

In the 338 district, we can spot favourites like Beijing Chinese that recently uprooted to another avenue in the area, Hash House with the same management as Coco’s, Thailand that has an amazing ambience across its many levels and Mirai, which is known as the hotspot for Japanese cuisine, reserved for those with a sophisticated palate.

On another side of Adliya, lie eateries like Wang Thai and Chin Li that have been around for several years. Korean restaurant, Darae Jung has been receiving praise endlessly since its opening. It’s worth finding out why.

Nestled within the shisha café hub of Adliya is a modest outlet called Peppers Fusion. Give it a chance; you’ll be hooked.

David’s Stir Fry is what we call an instant hit. Although a newcomer in the dining district, it feels like it has always been the local favourite.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Topping the list, however, is Meisei that has wowed the food-loving community from day one. With one of the Kingdom’s best chefs on board and a state-of-the-art setting, there’s nothing that can stop them. Read on to learn more about their offerings.

Standalone eateries Bushido is perhaps the glitziest restaurant around town with its own lagoon and seven sections. They recently celebrated four years of success in the Kingdom. A newer Japanese outlet is Fuji Teppanyaki in Sheza Tower. The concept is an extension of the Fuji Sushi Bar upstairs. However, they function as two individual concepts.

Sushi 101 boasts a self-explanatory title. Located in Zinj, this venue is a great place to introduce yourself to Japanese flavours. Another Japanese venue that has been a favourite for years is Edo in Exhibition Avenue.

Sumo Sushi and Bento in Juffair has gained a reputation as a successful family business through its commitment to providing high quality menus, a warm and relaxing atmosphere and excellent service. It not only serves classic Japanese dishes; it also offers cutting-edge innovative recipes as head chefs continue to create fun, flavourful ‘East meets West’ favourites.

Hakisushi, along the same street, blazes with brilliant colour from the beautifully presented menu to the geisha motif adorned walls. The menu features the freshest sushi, sashimi and cooked Japanese contemporary cuisine as well as traditional Japanese favourites all served from the Kaiten-sushi dining bar.

For Chinese fare, you have options like Kowloon, Hong Kong and Foli in Umm al Hassam and Magic Wok in Juffair and The Jawad Dome. Arirang in Exhibition Avenue offers Korean fare, which is rare in this part of the world.

Thai cuisine is all the rage in Bahrain with endless options scattered across the county. You have Muay Thai in Juffair, Thai Express in The Jawad Dome, Shada in Zinj, Pong Thai in Hoora and Banana Leaf in Adliya.

For a bit of it all, options include Pan Asia in Umm al Hassam and Nu Asia with branches in A’ali Complex, Isa Town, Budaiya and Juffair. Curry Country has just rebranded itself; its ‘all you can eat’ buffet offers you the chance to try all that they’ve got on the menu and more.

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diningf&bhappenings DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

Middle Eastern Flair

Ramadan is one of the most important events on the Islamic calendar; it is a time to feel the spirit of the season.

Following a day of fasting, there is no greater way to reward yourself than to gather around the Iftar table with family and friends. Offering the only rooftop venue in the Kingdom, Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa allows you to indulge in the freshest local ingredients and sumptuous skyline views at Al Fanar.

Reward your soul with delicious Arabian dishes, fresh dates and refreshing juices from across the Arab world, in addition to a wide selection of hot and cold mezze. Get all this and more at BD15 per person. Children under six dine for free.

After sunset, the feasting and entertainment continues; extend your night at a Ghabga in the air-conditioned terrace by the pool. The five-star hotel creates a magical atmosphere accompanied by set menus, shisha and live oud music. The astounding delicacies and great service make the hotel’s Ghabgas a favoured venue.

Located conveniently in the Diplomatic Area, the lavish venue is minutes away from the airport. This makes it suitable for business clients. It provides guests with luxurious accommodation and other services designed for relaxation.

For Ramadan, private and corporate groups should consider no place else, considering the ideal atmosphere, the perfectly catered mouth-watering dishes and the high quality of service.

It may be a Holy Month but it is also when the dining scenario gets serious on the island. There is nothing like the richly varied set menu to make your evenings truly memorable.

E Call 17 631-291.

VAPIANO RESTAURANT

The First Candle

Celebrating its first birthday this month, an Italian restaurant at the Bahrain City Centre invites us all to celebrate with flavour.

When? June 1-30 | Event? Anniversary | Venue? Vapiano

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Started in Germany, Vapiano is a fresh casual restaurant offering Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, salads and dolci cooked fresh to order, prepared how you like it. Exactly how fresh the food is here is visible via the on-site glass room, termed the Pasta Manifattura. All the sauces, dressings and pesto are completely homemade, too.

“The beauty of Vapiano is that every meal is perfected to each guest’s desires as they are in charge of how the meal is prepared through interaction with the chefs,” says operations manager, Ramzi Daadaa.

Add more sauce, less vegetables, extra flavourings and other add-ons however you prefer your meal to be when plated. The chefs are always there to advise you on the finest pasta and what flavours best suit your needs. You’ll find olive oil, chilli oil and balsamic vinegar on every table along with salt and pepper sitting alongside fresh basil and rosemary, which you can use to flavour your dishes.

Food which is fast, healthy and flavoursome is the best way to describe Vapiano’s menu. It is very much in line with its name, which translates as ‘people with a relaxed attitude living a long and healthy life’.

Light, bright and friendly, Vapiano’s large tables allow for groups and friends to dine together with ease. A juice station and dolci area allow time for you to simply take a break over a coffee. Like the olive trees found within the store, that reflect long life, the first birthday celebrations this month are just the start of greater things to expect from Vapiano.

E Call 17 491-391 or email vapbcc@fakhro.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? 1-15; June 23 | Event? Cooking contest | Venue? Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel

KEMPINSKI GRAND & IXIR HOTEL BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE

It’s a Cook Off! Have you ever dreamt of taking your family and friends to a five-star restaurant featuring your recipe? Have you wanted to see the joy on the faces of strangers who are enjoying your food?

To capture the spirit of sharing and feasting in the upcoming Holy Month of Ramadan in July, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre calls all creative individuals with a hidden or outspoken love for the culinary arts. From self-proclaimed chefs to seasoned professionals around the island, they invite everyone to participate in a recipe contest during the month of June.

Grab your chef’s hat and put your kitchen skills to the test to create your best Ramadan-themed dish. Whether you prefer to create a starter, main course or dessert, a traditional dish straight from your mother’s kitchen or an innovative interpretation with your favourite ingredients, all submissions are welcome.

Kempinski’s culinary team, led by executive chef Stefanos Melianos and chef de cuisine Issam Seddoq, will invite the authors of the three most creative recipes back to the hotel’s Arabic cuisine restaurant, Baharat, to participate in a cook-off on June 23. The winning dish will be featured on its Iftar and Ghabga Ramadan menus throughout the Holy Month.

Email your recipe with a photo of your dish between June 1 and 15. There will be great prizes for the taking too, for both the winner and the runners up.

Traditional flavours If you are looking for inspiration check out Baharat’s dinner menu, showcasing an array of traditional Arabic dishes with a modern twist. The culinary team has crafted a Middle Eastern themed, elaborate gourmet buffet of dishes, including a

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selection of local delicacies from Bahrain.

Traditional favourites are brought up-to-date with artistic and modern interpretations to take you on an unforgettable culinary journey. Dishes such as stuffed pigeon, lamb tagine, chicken stuffed with freekah and salmon with kunafa are some of the delights on offer.

Live cooking stations allow you to see the talented chefs in action; saj and tandoor ovens ensure that the breads are fresh. To experience this for yourself, visit Baharat between Wednesday and Friday from 8pm to 1am.

Baharat is also open for an extensive international buffet brunch every Friday from 12.30-4pm. From a selection of your favourite appetisers to a sushi counter, a pasta station and a spread of beautiful desserts, there is something delicious to satisfy every palate. All the dishes are made using the finest, freshest ingredients, with many of the vegetables sourced locally from a farm in Karranah, a green oasis minutes away from Manama.

E Call 17 171-144 or email restaurants.bahrain@kempinski.com.

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diningf&bhappenings MAKI RESTAURANT

Changing Asian Cuisine In 2002, Mohamad (Oliver) Zeitoun dared to apply his touch to Japanese cuisine, introducing indigenous ingredients to traditional Japanese dishes.

LANTERNS RESTAURANT

Seasoned and Spiced There are few greater joys in the world than munching on delicious food in an ambience that takes you far from the everyday routine.

Initially opening in the sophisticated Kuwait market, Maki Restaurant’s founder was the first person ever to present house-grown extra virgin olive oil to a cuisine that had its ‘boundaries’. Creating nutritious dishes such as Amer Maki, Oze Akami Maki and Tara II Maki, Oliver not only brought a new taste to this already rich cuisine but also opened the door for experimentation with Asian cuisine as a whole.

Later, Maki introduced extravagant international ingredients such as balsamic vinegar, wild thyme and black truffles to maki rolls and noodle dishes, thus changing this traditional cuisine forever. Oliver also complemented the wonderful tastes of Japanese dishes with Mediterranean and French flavours. The result of this fusion of ingredients was the restaurant’s business expanding to Bahrain and Lebanon.

Boosted by awards for ‘Best New Japanese’ and ‘Best Japanese Restaurant’ for the Bahrain outlet, the brand ventured into new territory. Bottling their house-made extra virgin olive oil, Maki took their new brand, ‘Oliver’s Table’ to the Olive Japan exhibition.

Curious visitors and judges alike were awestruck by the combination of this wonderful tasting, healthy ingredients and Japanese and Asian seafood favourites. A gold medal was won in the process. Recently, Maki celebrated the Japanese Hanami (flower viewing) festival by garnishing some of their most delectable creations with delightful, edible flowers. The Bahrain restaurant is the first to launch this colourful festival, proving yet again to be an innovator with this traditionalist cuisine.

E Call 17 522-733, e-mail maki.bahrain@olivermaki.com or visit www.olivermaki.com.

Lanterns Restaurant and Lounge in Adliya’s 338 district may be one of the newer entrants in the fine dining cuisine of the area, but its premier location on Budaiya Highway has been on the must-visit lists of Indian cuisine devotees for decades.

Today, Lanterns in Adliya continues the quality of its name and serves authentic ‘fusion’ Indian dishes, lavish buffets and more. With the warmth of Bahrain around you, an overhead mist spray to keep you cool and a decadent setting of waterfalls, greenery and seating, you could forget you are in the Kingdom.

This venue is not only an escape into fine dining but a way to forget the world. Like a friend in whose company you can melt away the hours, so too Lanterns Restaurant and Lounge is a friend to those who enjoy its cuisine.

With indoor, outdoor and rooftop dining, buffets, à la carte and bar snack menus, it allows for every visit to be styled by yourself into a memory never to be forgotten.

In similar style to the iconic Lanterns of nearly three decades on the Budaiya Highway, this branch is peppered with nostalgia of India, reminiscent of the grandeur of old and modern embellishments of the homeland, all hand-picked by managing director Lalit Kapur.

His influence has not only made the restaurants the icons of cuisine that they are; his knowledge has led to the modernisation of Indian fare, perfected to suit the taste buds of all.

E Call 17 250-999 (Budaiya) or 17 590-591 (Adliya).

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN

Fit for Kings Enriched with a colourful and healthy assortment of dishes that are peculiar to various regions of Iran, Persian cuisine is highly popular for its freshness and palatability.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A wise food lover once opined that if the divine creator has taken the pain to give us delicious and exquisite things to eat, the least we can do is to prepare them well and serve them with ceremony. This axiom of the festive spirit is perhaps the most evident feature that lies at the core of Iranian cuisine.

The kitchen in Takht Jamsheed, the Persian restaurant at Gulf Hotel Bahrain, has the ability to retain its uniqueness by preparing meals within a range of subtle and contrasting flavours. While herbs, spices and sometimes fruits are used for seasoning and garnishing, the essence is delicate.

Persian cooking largely relies on rice as one of the main ingredients. A traditional meal in the region is often a full plate of chelo (plain cooked rice) topped with vegetables, meat or fish. The mild flavour of rice provides a delightful contrast to the seasoned meat and vegetable toppings.

At this restaurant, headed by chef Mohammad Jalil, they serve various kinds of the staple dish. Some contain almonds, pistachios, glazed carrots, orange peels and raisins; others are cooked with vegetables, spices and occasionally with meat.

Each dish is perfected and finished by the use of specially prepared saffron from Iran.

If you’re hoping to share your meal with friends and family, as is customary in the homeland, the chef might even present it in the colours of the Iranian flag.

Another staple food is naan (bread), typically a round, flat bread that can either be baked or cooked over a bed of small stones. In Takht Jamsheed, several varieties of fresh-from-the-

oven bread are served. The staff pay great attention to freshness; it is likely that you will have a new batch coming to your table at regular intervals.

Lamb, which is the region’s favourite meat, beef and chicken are served in stews as well as in the form of the popular kabab.

Fish is common as well, reflecting the influence of their seaside towns. Other recipes include dumplings and stuffed vegetables accompanied by different sauces. The sweetmeats and pastries are particularly delicious.

In addition, there are a number of dishes prepared with a combination of herbs, grains, pulses, vegetables and even fruits. The mixing of sweet and savoury, such as grains stewed with fruit and spices, produce unique meals. The result is a feast of flavours and textures as well as a visual delight.

Persian cuisine is known for its blend of hot and cold foods; the variety of salads and side dishes offered at Takht Jamsheed is superb. Most cooking is done from scratch using fresh produce and specially prepared ingredients. The home-made sherbets and herbal drinks are popular as well.

Exceptional tastes are guaranteed at the decade-old restaurant that offers the comfort of a typical home in the luxury of a palatial setting. The faloodeh topped with their own saffron ice cream and garnished with pistachios is perhaps one of the best desserts in town. Takht Jamsheed offers a treat for your senses with live music on Thursdays and Fridays.

E Call 17 713-000.

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diningf&bhappenings RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

All-round Excellence Providing luxury and comfort to business and pleasure travellers alike, a four-star hotel in Adliya is an ultimate choice for all your needs.

As the days get warmer and the sun shines brighter, Ramada Hotel Bahrain offers culinary highlights to lighten up your summer. The hotel ensures that all events within their premises suit every budget and any occasion.

Relax and enjoy the vibrancy of summer with family and friends. With an array of delightful snacks and refreshing beverages, you can never go wrong with a day under the sun and a relaxing dip in the Oasis pool.

Enrolled members of the Wyndham Rewards Programme can opt to earn points that can be redeemed for free night stays, gift cards and merchandise or to earn airline miles with a qualifying stay. Special amenities for programme participants are a welcome addition.

The Exchange Restaurant and Pub hosts a delectable array of pub-style dishes, coupled with discounts on selected beverages come happy hour. The energy of the live resident band will make your night one to remember.

Even when in business mode, your meetings should not be confined to just your office. Ramada Bahrain can accommodate small conferences and seminars up to 60 people. Package deals are available as well.

If you prefer home gatherings, then hire the personalised service of Ramada Bahrain Hotel’s professional catering team. It is the ideal option for those hosting an event in the privacy of their own backyard.

Enjoy premium quality service and amenities at your party without the hassles of kitchen and cleaning duties.

E Call 17 742-000.

bystanderthismonth

SKAL Club Dinner The SKAL Club hosted a dinner for members and guests at the Mercure Grand Hotel in Seef District last month

Imbi & Mohammed

Mirza & Ismail

Stephen Daniel, Khalil, Abdulla Bu Khamseen, Sadiq, Delayla Haddad & Ronnie Haddad

Abdulla & Fuad

126 June 2013

Hameed & Rahman

Hesham

Arun, Tamer, Yasser, Ekaterina, Ahmed & Galal

Samir, Safia, Taghreed, Jeanie & Sadiq Dawani with Khalil Shakib

Cynthia, Goldie & Yousif

Mohan Pillai & Hisham

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MEISEI RESTAURANT

Modern Asian Delicacies Our country has many fine chefs, but few have ever given the country so much and changed the way we feel about food and understanding of dining as much as Michael Sang-Kyu Lee.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Meisei Restaurant, in the heart of Adliya’s 338 is chef Lee’s newest transformation of original, authentic and inspired food. In his 11-year association with Bahrain, he has been behind such entities as Café Spasso, Sushi 101 and Mirai.

He has in the past teased us with amazing food but it is his vision and passion behind Meisei which will take him global; Meisei London is already in the works.

The restaurant is a creation of Remza Investment Company of which Lee is director of food and beverage operations.

Meisei is as much about modern food as it is about himself.

The word ‘Meisei’ stands for honour, elegance and integrity, three sentiments which are close to the heart of the chef in his cooking style, the food he utilises, the dishes he cooks in, serves food upon and the names he has given to each culinary creation.

With a personal heritage of Japanese, Korean and Canadian, and with a well-travelled resume in food Lee can be seen to utilise his entire life in the food served here. It is his mother’s Osakan heritage on which he draws most for the restaurant and the Japanese form of tapas; small dishes of perfection, filled with flavour and with multiple textures and styles for which the diner can enjoy.

Pizza, for instance, with a croissant pastry base make for a mouthful of light-as-air perfection. Crispy chestnut crisps

highlighted with vanilla bean serve a Meisei duo of salmon tartar, perfectly combining smooth and succulent with crisp and delicious. Tacos of Norwegian salmon, Peking duck and foie gras dim sum show his skills and playfulness with food.

Meisei hits every note it plays to its diners with perfection.

Inspired by the five elements of Japanese philosophy, earth, water, fire, wind and spirit the ambience is truly one of a kind. The restaurant is a visual feast as well as a gastronomical one.

Chef Lee has developed an impressive menu, offering his take on Asian cuisine with inspirations from life and travel, bemoaning the word ‘fusion’, making it clear that he serves inspired modern Japanese food, nothing more, nothing less.

Inspirations are his wife, upbringing, culinary mentors and if any region plays a bigger part than most it is the Mediterranean for its utilisation of freshness.

On June 7 Meisei partners with Kirin beer for its launch in the third floor rooftop dining and entertainment deck by celebrating the love of the outdoors. I am happy to say that I went to Meisei Restaurant to eat fine food, but came away having sampled an inspiring life, a cuisine unparalleled and having found a gorgeous home for us all that serves modernity with tradition, honour, elegance and integrity — delicious! E Call 17 007-770.

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restaurantlisting American Bennigan’s Blaze Burger Burger Lounge Burger Wisconsin Chili House Chili’s Franks a Lot Fuddruckers Hard Rock Café Johnny Rockets Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Ponderosa T.G.I.Friday’s Tony Luke’s Tony Roma's

17 813-750 17 744-773 77 055-772 17 594-458 17 580-045 17 581-221 17 811-970 17 742-266 17 291-569 17 566-565 17 725-550 17 580-552 17 179-041 17 494-940 17 870-070

Asian Chin Li Curry Country David's Stir Fry Hot Wok House Boat Kontiki Meisei Memories Monsoon Noodle Factory Nu Asia Panasia

17 717-717 17 537-555 17 540-188 17 178-083 16 010-321 17 525-455 17 007-770 17 178-646 17 749-222 16 010-534 17 587-171 17 721-600

Skyw@lk Café World Beat Café

17 363-999 17 612-576

European Block 338 Camelot Coco’s Cyprus Taverna Déjà Vu Paul Bakery & Restaurant Sizzlers Txoko Zytoun

17 710-338 17 717-745 17 716-512 17 716-316 13 657-770 17 172-321 17 716-999 16 000-000 17 298-471

Filipino Bahay Kubo Borakay Chuckay Fast Food Flamingo Kowloon Quick Stomach Swan Lake

17 231-996 17 514-400 17 532-250 17 231-106 17 224-357 17 295-540 17 291-655 17 237-768

Fusion Fusions

17 746-427

Indian Akbar Clay Oven Copper Chimney

17 296-660 17 717-008 17 728-699

The Crepe Café Upstairs Downstairs Wafi Gourmet Zoe

17 820-722 17 713-093 17 179-999 17 176-400

International (5 Star Hotel) Al Safir Al Waha Al Wasmeyyah La Med La Mosaique Le Domain[34] Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya Saveur Selections Silk’s

17 524-538 17 746-425 17 535-000 17 580-000 17 531-122 16 000-000 17 525-214 17 845-000 17 636-410 17 171-000 17 227-777 17 460-055

International (4 Star Hotel) Al Nakheel Café California Café Marisol Café Sayah Chaq’s Grill Fusion Café Grand Café Il Giardino Julio's Coffee Shop Klouds La Brasserie La Café Le Cascada Le Jardin Neyran Parsia Ramee Bistro Ramee Café Red Café Relax Inn Coffee Shop Rendezvous Tiffany’s

17 559-900 17 826-001 17 701-201 17 224-000 17 290-555 17 811-688 17 727-230 17 583-388 17 565-888 17 360-000 17 313-333 17 810-555 17 360-360 17 742-000 17 584-400 17 814-777 17 290-600 17 297-000 17 296-660 17 815-815 17 366-222 17 716-999

Iranian

Peppers Rice Bowl The Noodle House Tian Wok

17 717-808 17 179-600 17 666-353 17 717-080 17 636-415

Brazilian Brasa de Brasil Brazil Rodizio Grill

17 582-225 17 826-686

Chinese Beijing Chinese China Express China Garden Ching Foli Hong Kong Kowloon Magic Wok Shanghai Hut Soie Spice Nice

17 717-969 17 717-439 17 746-423 17 564-424 17 722-199 17 728-700 17 725-015 17 506-070 17 292-988 17 533-533 17 713-603

Café Restaurants Cafe Delices Café T Delifrance Esquires Le Bateau Le Chocolat Lina’s Café Rosa Verge

17 746-434 17 750-777 17 696-031 77 177-660 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538 13 667-777

Curry Tree Hyderabad House It’s Mirchi Kalpaka Lanterns Mantra Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Shamiana Spices The Yellow Chilli

16 030-662 17 720-031 17 727-230 17 297-000 17 590-591 17 211-133 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 178-085 17 531-122 17 580-480

Indian/Pakistani B-B-Q Delights Chutney’s

17 564-282 17 591-259

International East West Cuisine Healthy Calorie Jim’s Restaurant La Fontaine Links Little Chef/Wholesale Mei n Yu Muju Nando’s Pomodorini Rendezvous Salad Boutique

17 210-012 17 369-399 17 710-654 17 230-123 17 751-262 17 595-950 16 010-160 16 039-800 17 825-100 17 000-121 17 178-712 36 664-427

Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Persian Room Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill

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

Arirang Da Rae Jung

17 290-945 17 002-490

Lebanese Abd El Wahab Al Areesha Al Hamra Palace Beyroute Café Blanc Carla’s Lebanese Bistro Kenza Leila Mashawi Lebanese Grill Qasr Al Sultan Grill Rayés Shoo Fee Ma Fee Tarbouche Express Yamin Jana Zahle Zayt Zaytoon Zeitouna

17 131-111 17 725-414 17 224-000 17 280-111 17 100-069 17 697-687 17 360-000 17 566-556 17 506-070 17 744-144 17 312-700 17 311-280 17 229-979 16 033-800 17 746-417 17 312-222 17 365-055

Mexican Casa Mexicana Margarita Mexicana Senor Paco’s

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873

Sea Chef Seafood Market Waves

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

Shawarma Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

Steak Houses Klouds Le Sauvage Meat + Fire Legendz Plums The Butcher Shop & Grill The Meat Co

17 360-000 16 000-000 17 227-777 17 580-000 17 172-323 17 742-080

Thai Baan Saeng Thai Banana Leaf Hash House Lanna Thai Muay Thai Orchid Thai Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

17 715-775 17 744-171 17 715-094 17 593-940 77 040-454 17 296-660 17 746-421 17 721-155 17 506-070 17 717-040 17 710-771

Turkish

Middle Eastern Al Abraaj Al-Bokhari

17 178-090 17 311-186

Leewan Al Khor Melh Alzad Taza Yalla Yalla

16 010-666 17 311-170 17 784-997 17 827-999

Iskenderun Grill Kosebasi Turkish Mashawi Express

17 292-950 17 172-322 17 002-939

Italian Bice Ristorante Café Italia Caffe Spasso Carino’s Italian Grill Cico’s Cucina Italiana Fiamma

Gusto Italiano Justapasta La Pergola La Taverna Luigi's Restaurant & Pizza Masso Medzo Mia Mia Mino’s Pizzeria Mondo Nino Oliveto Pasta Art Pastarito Ristoranti Prego Primavera Roma Romano’s Macaroni Grill Vapiano

17 533-666 17 744-774 17 822-274 17 587-878 17 713-710 17 001-317 17 636-363 17 695-556 17 581-919 17 506-070 17 746-419 17 229-979 17 693-533 17 721-061 17 227-777 17 564-414 17 744-777 17 525-484 17 566-555 17 716-747 17 001-750 17 179-300 17 751-263 17 580-000 17 725-885 17 723-818 17 491-391

Japanese Bushido Edo Frangipani Fuji Sushi Bar Hakisushi Kei Maki Mirai Sato Sugoi Sumo Sushi & Bento Sushi 101 Yo! Sushi

128 June 2013

Korean

17 583-555 17 290-945 17 582-422 17 533-383 17 725-638 17 533-000 17 522-733 17 713-113 17 746-429 17 178-748 17 718-090 17 822-274 17 583-373

Moroccan Momo Le Marrakech

17 180-659 17 003-273

Pizza Domino's Little Caesars Margherita Pizza and Pasta Metro Pizza Papa John’s Pick a Pizza Pizza Express Pizza Hut Pizza Inn Pizzabella The Pizza Company

17 826-222 17 179-400 17 723-133 17 794-000 17 581-516 17 720-929 16 010-524 17 711-113 17 811-666 17 827-133 17 811-830

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

17 586-555

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

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

Quick Service Restaurants Burger King Burgerland Chickey’s Chicking DQ Grill & Chill Elevation Burger EZ Take out Burger Fatburger Hardee’s Herfy Jasmi’s Kentucky Fried Chicken Kudu New York Fries McDonald’s Pollo Campero

17 506-070 17 713-778 17 257-778 17 200-040 17 506-070 17 587-828 17 241-111 17 131-414 17 178-084 17 243-115 17 727-887 17 711-111 17 717-542 17 178-436 17 221-722 17 161-716

Eating Out listings

Note: Whilst every effort is made to cover all leading restaurant outlets in Bahrain, the details listed are based upon replies to our survey. BTM cannot accept any responsibility or liability for inaccurate information: we recommend you check with the restaurant to reconfirm their listing.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdarkthismonth When? June 13 | Event? Launch | Venue? Mezzaluna

The Rise of the Tiger!

Elma Bartholomew BMMI is set to launch Singapore’s premium beer on the island. This isn’t just a promotion, mind you? They’re going all out with a huge event.

Party-goers in the country should know by now that if BMMI backs up an event, it’s going to be grand. Imagine an occasion where the retailers themselves are hosting a whole festival, albeit to launch a premium beverage from Singapore — Tiger Beer. The drink is only the tip of the iceberg.

When they do something, they do it big. It’s no surprise that the event on June 13 is the biggest this month in the nightlife scene. To unveil the introduction of the beverage to the Kingdom, they have called upon the region’s top DJs, live musicians, beat boxers and dance crews. Giving the event an artistic flair is the collaboration with top artists. How often do you get to see installations, graffiti and body art in a party house? BMMI is keeping it urban and cool this month.

Headlining the show is Dubai’s own DJ Marko Smokingroove.

That’s right; they’ve reeled in the long-term resident of the award-winning Nasimi Beach Club to pump up the energy. Not only does he soundtrack the hottest party destination in the Middle East, he helped discover and launch the venue in 2009, curating the monthly Full Moon parties which saw record attendances well into their thousands. Nasimi’s events have Also this month

since grown into huge, one-day festivals where Marko has shared deck-time with some of the world’s biggest names including Faithless and Armand Van Helden.

Joining him is Attala, a Lebanese/Egyptian music producer, composer, song writer, MC and founder of cigAwet Productions, which BMMI is associating with for the event. You can dance to the beats of DJs Mysterioo, Detour and Sami Dee as well on this action-packed night. The line-up should make it obvious that all kinds of house will create a unique vibe.

It isn’t just about the magic behind the turntable. May Alqasim throws her enchanting voice to show us what she’s made of.

Mellow X (Ahmed ‘Eddie’ Ayoob) throws fire to the mix.

If you couldn’t get enough of the b-boy contest last month, catch the Street Star crew bust some unbelievable moves.

From the other end of the spectrum rises Ballare’s dance crew.

The state-of-the-art studio proves that even they’ve got what it takes to conquer a dance floor.

On the art front, BMMI host two amazing people, who can be categorised as dreamers. Bahraini artist, Asia Fuse, who also goes by the name of Aysha Almoayyed makes an appearance.

It only seems natural that Fawaz AlOlaiwat, aka FawazO, joins the party given his mastery in the field of art and music. The progressive artist is sure to put on a show on June 13.

What’s more; they allow free entrance. However, entry is allowed for couples and mixed groups only.

E Visit Facebook.com/BMMIRetailShop.

When? June 7 Event? Theme night Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Hotel Bring out your inner caveman for a Stone Age party.

E Call 39 688-207 When? June 20 Event? Theme night Venue? Bizarre Lounge, Kempinski Ixir Hotel Are you stylish enough? Flaunt your latest buys.

E Call 17 171-441 When? June 26 Event? Theme night Venue? Club F1, Metropolitan Hotel Grab an eye-patch and join the Pirates of the Caribbean party.

E Call 39 098-607 When? June 26 Event? Wine tasting Venue? Tapas Bar, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa There is no better way to season your knowledge of wine?

E Call 17 636-363 When? June 28 Event? Theme night Venue? Bushido Here’s your chance to get your favourite piece from Emporio Armani.

E Call 17 586-555.

130 x Happenings

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June 2013 129

afterdarkhappenings

In the Darkness Tapas Bar

It looks like the nightlife scenario has taken up a new avatar. It isn’t just about swaying to the beats anymore.

Are you looking for new venue to just unwind during the week?

Check out Elements at InterContinental Regency. Located on the mezzanine floor of the five-star hotel, the pool bar and lounge offers à la carte items, exotic beverages and shisha. You will have to wait for a couple of months for its grand opening.

Tapas Bar at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa hosts yet another elegant evening of exotic wine tasting, delectable gourmet canapés and cheese on June 26.

Enjoy a night out with friends and listen to live entertainment provided by the resident duo, Christian and Antonina. This

month, ladies have the chance to win a gift worth BD300 from Emporio Armani. Visit Bushido on June 28 for the ever-popular Pink Friday party. Men will be charged an entry fee of BD10 after 10pm.

Bizarre Lounge caters to Navy personnel this month with a special drink package every Wednesday to Friday from 9-10pm.

Flash your ID within the hour to get a beverage free for every one that you buy. The Hot in the City theme party continues to reel in the fashionistas in the country; walk in on June 20 for a dose of the latest trends.

bystanderthismonth

Rocky's Cafe 11th Anniversary Rocky's Cafe at the Ramee International Juffair celebrated its 11th anniversary last month

Edward, Naveen & Sujith

Jason, Judy & James

Dave, Carl, Yousaf & Martin

Steve, Lee & David

Lea, Piku, Lyka & Jelly Dave, Mally & Paddy

India, Carla & Helen

130 June 2013

Edward, Naveen & Sujith with staff at the cake cutting

Ellie & Aaron

Harneet, Majid & Majid

Martin, Kim, Chantal & Carl

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Theme nights Casa Terrace at Mercure Grand Hotel has a treat for you every Wednesday and Thursday. Enjoy ‘unplugged music’ from 6.309pm. The Egyptian band, Flamingo, plays international and Arabian tunes on the guitar and drums. The venue also hosts a BBQ night on Thursdays at BD4.

C-Club Sports Bar at The Golden Tulip makes the most of summer with a special promotion every Saturday to Wednesday from noon until 8pm. enjoy the longest happy hours on the island with a 30 per cent discount on your order.

If you’re itching to don a pirate costume before Halloween’s, feel free to do so on June 26 and join the crew at Club F1 in Metropolitan Hotel for a night of fun and live entertainment.

Elements in InterContinental Regency hosts an Arabic Grills

Bizarre Lounge

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The K Lounge

Night every Thursday. Enjoy a bento box of cold and hot mezze with ‘all you can’ grills at BD10.

Ramee California Hotel has two must-attend theme nights this month. On June 7, Club Buffalo asks you to revisit the Stone Age, while on June 13, Bedrock invites you to an indoor beach party.

Food frenzy The K Lounge at The K Hotel has launched a new steakhouse menu with prices ranging between BD2 and BD22. Meanwhile, Club F1 at Metropolitan Hotel has introduced a value meal of sorts. At BD10, you are offered a three-course set menu with a complimentary house beverage.

An Nada Lounge offer a delicious range of spring rolls at exciting prices throughout the month.

June 2013 131

afterdarkhappenings RAMEE PALACE HOTEL

Show Off! Can you sing or play an instrument or both? Do you think you’re good enough to hit the stage and rock it? If so, here’s your chance to prove it.

When? June 1-27 | Event? Talent contest | Venue? Dublin, Ramee Palace Hotel

Dublin Club at the Ramee Palace Hotel calls all aspiring musicians and vocalists to join resident band EvolveR on stage for Dublin’s Got Talent: Season 5. The final takes place on June 27, with auditions every Saturday from the start of the month at the weekly Jam Night.

Three contenders will qualify each week, with 12 participants going for gold in the final. In addition to the prestigious title, fantastic prizes are on offer for the winner. Everyone is welcome to take the stage; no booking is necessary. Just turn up at one of the weekly Jam Nights and seize the spotlight.

A new face A recent addition to the Bahrain club scene, DJ Angel has been a regular around the north of England for years. With extensive musical knowledge, he covers everything from house to rock and pop to R&B. He has a natural ability to tailor his performances to the crowd, ensuring that every musical taste is catered for. Catch him behind the decks six nights a week at the Dublin Club, from Sunday to Friday and occasionally joining EvolveR on stage for the Saturday Night Jam. Theme night It’s time to don your beach wear and party the night away summer style as June 13 is Caribbean Dreams. Enjoy a taste of paradise and indulge in a beverage or two from the specially designed classic tropical drink menu. A three-course meal inclusive of a beverage is available for BD10.

DJ Angel

E Call 39 736-547 or visit Facebook.com/Dublin Club Bahrain.

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Beluga Launch Party At MEISEI A launch party was held for Beluga, the world's premium beverage from Russia at the MEISEI Restaurant Rooftop

Ricardo Carrera-Lowe & Dr Fadhel Al Arrayed

Daniel est Papa G avec cheveux

Eva, Nadia, Sousan & Lina

Nadine & DJ Mohab, Shandra & Marco

Shereen & Lani

132 June 2013

Alexandre, Irina & Zuhair

Maria, Vanessa, Michael, Elena & Helen

Diana, Ricrado & Sara

Kylie, Basma & Yousif

AJ

Yvonne & Rita

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RAMEE CALIFORNIA HOTEL

Prehistoric Times A rugged saloon with all the creature comforts is open seven nights a week, bringing you the best in food and beverages.

Stepping into Club Buffalo at Ramee California is like stepping back into a simpler time when the West was wild and so was the entertainment. With the walls rich with dark wood panelling and one of the longest bars in Bahrain, the comfort of this saloon draws you in.

There are three different ‘rooms’ to suit you. The dining room is in the back; away from the noise. With chefs that can create any item on the menu to your liking, the diner serves lipsmacking meals.

The dance floor and billiards section are right where the action is. Some of the Kingdom’s legendary bands have shown the crowd what they’re made of on this club’s stage. The bar area can be thought of as a crossover, where you can find a bit of quiet without being too distant from the action.

Party time Club Buffalo is adaptable to any occasion or party you can think of. Happy Hour is a daily affair, starting at 4pm and ending at 9pm. Get 20 per cent discount on your order and play billiards for free to help unwind your day.

In-house band Remix brings down the house six nights a week with resident VDJ Paul Reese spinning at the decks. They keep the party going with Ladies’ Night every night of the week from 9pm-2am, except Thursdays.

Promotions run all month long; the staff will point you in the right direction. It’s always a good time to go to Club Buffalo where the West is still wild. Visit them on June 7 for a glimpse of the Stone Age, and let out your inner caveman.

E Call 39 688-207.

bystanderthismonth

Beluga Evening At Bizarre Lounge BMMI in association with Bizarre Lounge at the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre held a Beluga evening, featuring the world's super premium Russian beverage. The event was attended by HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador, Richard Cohen, Brand Ambassador & guests

Yousuf, HE Victor Smirnov & Vera Smirnova

Apple, Sari, Kirsty, Josephine & Kate

Elita, Lalith & Nisha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Antony & Naveen

Sonik, Navneet & Puneet

Shiva, Amy, Mattieu & Mahmood

Nilantha & James

Andrea with Richard Cohen

Rajeev & Basil

Ian & Heinz

Ebrahim & Heinz

Helen

Ghassan & Joelle

Wajdi & George

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bystanderthismonth

LuLu Bollywood Poster Exhibition Fans of Hindi cinema, the most prolific movie industry in the world, got a glimpse of its history at a poster exhibition. The expo was opened by Mala Kumar, wife of HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, at the Ramli Mall, A’Ali. The show was curated by Abboo Mohamed of Posterstuff. The event celebrates 100 years of Hindi cinema

Mala Kumar opens the exhibition

Mohammed Kaleem, Praveen, Vineeth & Abdul Sathae

Mala Kumar tours the expo

Sajith, Abhilash, Rahul, Ashul & Jaleel

Some iconic posters on display

Huda, Nadia, Lisa & Yanni

Suchita, Sreevidya, Chritra & Kamalesh

Inaie & Fabio Farewell Party Inaie & Fabio hosted a party to bid farewell to their friends prior to their departure from Bahrain.

The party was held at their residence in Janabiya

Sumitra, Siw & Marco

Inaie, Andrew & Inna

134 June 2013

Inaie, Lia & Fabio

Fredrico, Inaie, Arthur, Lynette & Fabio

William, Waleed, Hilde & Lamia

Renata, Inaie & Marise

Mauricio & Alessandra

Henk, Airat, Inaie, Mayya & Nathalia

Lamis, Inaie & Patricia

Pradeep & Robney

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What’s New Edited by Maryam Toorani

Modern Touch Playful and witty in mood, the new jewellery line from Emporio Armani dazzles with adventure. The pieces are supremely ‘Armani’ in their stylistic concept, adding extra brio and energy to the classic values of the brand.

Available at A La Mode outlets.

Zooming In

Summer Glow

The new Olympus VH-410 is no ordinary point-and-shoot compact but a touch-andshoot stunner. The latest V Series comes with intuitive touch-screen technology that lets you pick your focus and take your shot all on the LCD — no buttons required!

Available at Gajria Electronics.

This brand-new bronzing range from Bourjois lets you be a golden goddess all year round. Check out their BB bronzer, mattifying primer, maxi bronzing powder and a fabulous mousse bronzer for the body. Available at leading outlets

Curls, Curls, Curls!

The Minx Over the Top 3-in-1 Mascara will give you the ultimate results for luscious lashes. Get amazing volume, curl and lift with minimal effort; give your lashes a pick-me-up.

Available at Mikyajy.

Heritage in a Bottle The new Attar Al Thameen from Rasasi represents the luxury of Arab heritage in all its splendour and magnificence.

The collection leads with top notes of neroli, bergamot, coriander and lily of valley.

Available at Rasasi Perfumes

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2013 135

marketplace VLCC

Look Your Best This month, take a look at how an internationally recognised well-being centre helps you sculpt your body the natural way.

Over the last two decades, VLCC has revolutionised the beauty and fitness industry with its unique and innovative product ranges. ‘Shape Up’ is one such line that has transformed millions of lives across the world.

It blends ayurveda with science and nature with state-of-theart technology to offer body firming and shaping products that are proven to deliver measurable results. The range includes products designed for different parts of your body, and each is clinically tested to help in the shaping and firming of specific body parts.

Waist and tummy trim gel This fast-absorbing ayurvedic formulation breaks down excess cellular fat around the waist and tummy into consumable energy. It flushes out extra-retained water from your system and strengthens the skin’s surface to give a flatter and firmer stomach in just three to six weeks of usage.

Bust firming cream It contains a blend of herbs known for its ability to tighten tissues and promote a firmer and fuller bust line, naturally. By helping the body to heighten the skin’s resilience, it improves the tone and contour of the breasts to give a shapely bust in as little as 21 days of usage.

Anti-cellulite and oil gel This facilitates peripheral circulation thereby increasing the blood supply, oxygen and nutrient flow to the body. The formula, being rich in vitamins and minerals, helps break down cholesterol. It also strengthens skin tissues and refines body contours to firm, tone and smoothen the skin, resulting in a fresh and youthful appearance on the hips, thighs and arms in three to six weeks of usage.

Chin and neck firming cream The product refines and shapes the lower cheeks, lower jaw, chin and neckline while toning and tightening contours around the neck and jaw. The molecules in the cream stimulate cell regeneration which further firms up slacking and sagging skin around the neck area to give a younger, firmer chin and neck in 21 days.

E Call 17 404-354 or 17 684-880.

136 June 2013

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RAMLI MALL

Shop ‘til You Drop Nothing says ‘summer’ in the GCC like extravagant shopping sprees. This month, you can enjoy all the latest in retail along with sensational sales and promotions.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

With summer settling upon us, families are busy shopping for Ramadan and planning for their upcoming vacations. No place is as inviting as the airy and cool Ramli Mall in A’ali where you can find almost everything you need and want.

The spacious mall boasts clothes, women’s wear, children’s fashion, beautiful home decor, high-fashion jewellery, accessories and a number of dining outlets. What’s more, starting from this month, Ramli is running a major summer promotions programme that could win you a number of exciting prizes.

All you have to do is shop for BD5 and you can enter a grand raffle with an astounding USD35,000 worth of vouchers. The promotion runs until July 25, when a total of two grand prizes worth USD5,000 can be won. Every Saturday during the promotion, lucky weekly winners will get USD1,000 worth of vouchers, two second prizes worth USD500 and three third prize winners will take home USD250 each.

In the two years that it has attracted shoppers, Ramli Mall has built a loyal visitor base. The shopping centre has a great family atmosphere and houses some of the trendiest brands as well as a busy food court that offers the best of global cuisine, from traditional Arabic fare at Karami to fast-food brands such

as McDonald’s and other favourites like Papa John’s.

In addition, there are sophisticated coffee stops like Toffee House, Caribou Coffee and Gloria Jean’s Coffee where parents can unwind or friends can gather. The little ones are always in for a treat at Ramli’s Magic Island, which is filled with fun games and all kinds of activities.

Not only is the mall the perfect one-stop-shop for all your household and kitchen essentials, it is packed with the latest trends from the spring/summer season. From floral prints to feminine dresses and wedged heels, you can find everything you need for a fashionable vacation under one roof. The brands include Red Tag, Vinci, Hush Puppies, La Senza, Mommy and Me and Claire’s.

The mall is growing to be a busy community arena with a horde of great must-attend events throughout the year.

These include several coffee sessions that feature wellknown guest speakers.

This year, the mall invited Dr John Grey to address visitors and held a full-house concert by loved Bahraini singer Hala Turk. So if you are looking to win big this summer, make Ramli Mall your shopping destination and you are sure to be a winner in every way. E Call 17 646-600.

June 2013 137

marketplace ROCHE BOBOIS

Exhibiting the Best Some furnishing houses truly appreciate the skill set behind each item in their showroom; it eventually takes shape of a gallery.

Brisbane

Mah Jong

Voiles

BOCONCEPT

A New Twist Discover new combinations of shapes and colours in the latest accessories collection at the Bahrain outlet of an international furnishing brand.

138 June 2013

Hans Hopfer has always created a sensible balance between creative space and lifestyle. In collaboration with Marco Furmagalli, he has created the Mah Jong bed for the Roche Bobois’ contemporary collection. Upholstered in fabrics and boasting the Missoni Home logo, the bed has padded headboard cushions, a hand-stitched finish and an adjustable metal base.

On the other hand, Philippe Bouix’s approach is beyond the standard seat comfort. His design is based on a constant quest of visual comfort and harmoisation of shapes, sometimes punctuated with wood or chrome details.

For the Nouveaux Classiques collection, he has created the Brisbane three-seater sofa, which is upholstered in Opus leather, European hide, rectified grain and pigmented finish. An armchair and ottoman are available as well.

When he established his own design agency, Daniel Rode made a natural transition to furnishings, picking up several awards on the way. Rode takes his inspiration from the human body; delivering structurally ergonomic forms produced using a range of unconventional solutions that make use of ductile materials. This is most evident in the Vertigo desk.

Non-conformist Italian designer Maurice Barilone cultivates years of passion for furniture objects. He has collaborated with Roche Bobois for over three decades, creating pieces like the Voiles dining table. This stand-out centrepiece has a base in 10mm-thick curved steel and a top in 15mm-thick tempered glass. It is available in chrome, black nickel, copper and brass finishes.

E Call 17 582-901.

Unexpected contrasts are achieved by combining traditional patterns and colours in new, untraditional ways at BoConcept.

A check pattern is put together with a floral print. The colour red is with an animal print. The surprise of a neon yellow in a scale of blue tones is also present in its newest accessories collection. The rule is that there are no rules.

Enjoy well-known, geometric patterns that remind you of looking into a kaleidoscope. Surprise yourself when these traditional patterns are combined with more organic patterns such as flowers and animal prints.

The new cushions from BoConcept feature colour combinations never seen before that bring a playful edge to the design. Although there are no limits to the play with colours and patterns, the look is brought together by carefully worked details such as zips and piping in strong colours. These characteristic colours are repeated in the Maya Indian-inspired patterns of the new, soft and exquisite throws.

From another part of the world, the shape of the Russian Babushka doll has been transferred to new glass vases in two colours, purple and blue. The dolls come in sets of five. You can choose between red or blue colour scales, each with a little surprise in the colour combination and with one doll standing out from the rest.

The playfulness of the new BoConcept accessories continues with the storage boxes and candlesticks in rubber wood. The three candlesticks work as building blocks that can be combined into one or two candlesticks. Mix the different colours and patterns on each side of the candlesticks to create fun, exciting combinations. E Call 17 564-319.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Leading the Pack The essence of reliable appliances for the last 95 years, the international manufacturing giant Frigidaire celebrates another milestone.

Having developed many of the world’s firsts, the home appliance manufacturer Frigidaire is an industry pioneer. Not only was 1918 the birth of the first electric refrigerator but it was also the beginning of the company. WC Durant, the president of General Motors, purchased the manufacturing company that built the first self-contained electric refrigeration unit and coined its name.

In 1929, Frigidaire invented the first commercially successful ‘room cooler’, or as we call it today, the air conditioner. This piece of technology subsequently transformed what it meant to be comfortable at home. In the same year, an ice cream cabinet was introduced that proved to have many more uses. From this innovation, the first home freezer was adopted.

As early refrigerators tended to dry out fruits and vegetables, in 1930 Frigidaire developed the first Hydrator, a metal pan with a special ventilated lid. This kept humidity at just the right level for the produce, extending its freshness.

Until 1947 the average washing machine was in constant need of monitoring as each part of the washing process had to be started by hand. The Pulsator Agitator washer fully automated the washing process so you could simply press a button, walk away and return when the wash programme was complete.

Additionally, Frigidaire was able to reduce the size of the average cooker by 10 inches in 1950, while simultaneously offering the largest household electric oven in a cooker at the time. Today this 30-inch-wide cooker is still the standard in many countries.

In 1965 the manufacturers designed the first ice maker in the refrigerator door. It froze, released and stored ice cubes automatically, making it easier to serve a cold beverage.

The first laundry centre with a full-size washer on the bottom and full-size dryer above it was built in 1970. Its compact size is still popular with people who have limited space for their washer and dryer.

The first built-in water and ice filtration system was introduced in 1996 through a Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerator.

This feature is now so popular that you can hardly find a refrigerator without it.

Going into their 96th year of business, Frigidaire will continue its history of innovation by launching a new line of highefficiency top-load laundry models with unique features. The washer features an exclusive Waterfall Wash Technology, which thoroughly soaks the entire load, while the Immersion Care Wash Action gently moves the water and detergent through clothes.

Head over to Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro to see their complete line of appliances. E Call 17 408-111.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2013 139

marketplace INTERCOL

Quintessential India The trick to attaining authentic dishes is in the ingredients. Quality rice is just what you need for a true Indian dining experience.

For thousands of years, Indian royalty has selected the finest basmati for its unique aroma and special taste. Grown and nurtured in the most fertile fields of the Indo-Gangetic planes in the foothills of the Himalayan sub-ranges, Kohinoor offers authentic Indian flavours to the world.

The Kohinoor Foods group passionately believes in bringing their true culinary essence to the global doorstep. It promises a heavenly treat with every bite to everyone’s satisfaction; with a wide range of delicacies that are enjoyed and appreciated across the world. Today, the brand is a household name in countries like the USA, UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Canada, Japan, Australia, Singapore and Mauritius.

In the Kingdom, Kohinoor’s much-loved range of products is available in all major hypermarkets and supermarkets, such as Lulu Hypermarket, Géant, Ramez, Sultan Centre, Al Muntazah, Carrefour and Ansar Gallery.

All products offer great quality with the support of dedicated and fully equipped quality control centres and micro-biological labs. The group boasts manufacturing and processing facilities that are HACCP and ISO 9001:2000 certified, US-FDA and FSA-compliant as well as Kosher-certified.

Kohinoor also enjoys remarkable international recognition and accreditations such as SuperBrand (achieved six times) and Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand Award (achieved thrice). It has also been mentioned in the Guinness Book of World Records for making the world’s largest biryani.

E Call 17 725-794.

INTERCOL

Next Generation Fun Following the overwhelming response of customers to the much-lauded Nokia Lumia series, Intercol launches an exciting new summer festival.

140 June 2013

Every customer who purchase a Lumia 520 or 620 gets a BD5 free voucher, a 720 gets BD7 and 820 or 920 recieves BD10 — a perfect way to get accessories to complement your new phone! You can redeem the gift vouchers from any NokiaIntercol outlet before July 31. The promotion is valid while stocks last or until the end of the promotion.

Since its launch, the Lumia range of phones has been creating a buzz in the competitive market. One feature that has everyone talking is the amazing PureView camera technology. You can take quality photos during the day or night.

Innovative wireless charging technology of the 920 lets you charge up your smartphone without plugging it in. The same charging technology can also be used on the rest of the line through accessories. They run on Windows Phone 8, which comes with unique features like Nokia Music+, Here Maps, MS Office on-the-go and a superfast 4G Internet connection for the 820 and 920.

A favourite among the tech savvy crowd is the 520. It comes with exclusive digital lenses, a 1GHz dual-core processor and a touchscreen that even works with long nails or gloves. With the fun and affordable smartphone and in the company of free music and navigation, you can do more and wait less thanks to its superfast processor.

The 920 is another model in the series that has taken the market by storm. The colourful uni-body design comes with a 4.5-inch PureMotion high definition display. The innovations used allows for blur-free videos and photos even if the camera is shaking or in low light.

E Call 17 725-794.

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Dr Amer Hashim Hassan Al Ani

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Fighting Obesity An escalating increase in obesity has been identified as a major contributing cause of preventable diseases. We take a look at how we can put a stop to it.

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It is well known in the Gulf that our lifestyle choices make us one of the most obese regions in the world. Internationally, more than 1.6 billion adults are overweight, while 30 to 45 million children are obese. Helping to shed more light on the nationwide epidemic is Dr Amer Hashim Hassan Al Ani of the Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH).

“Obesity is defined as an excessive fat accumulation in the body to the extent that health is impaired. Those suffering from it have a much greater risk of many illnesses including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, asthma and obstructive sleep apnea.

Many don’t understand that the unhealthy lifestyle has a clear effect on their mortality,” explains the consultant general and digestive surgeon.

Although there are conventional ways to lose weight [DASH] increased physical activity, low fat intake and a high protein diet with appropriate calorie restrictions [DASH] many have limited results. The hospital’s team of experts offer bariatric surgery to those in life threatening conditions caused by obesity.

The process includes restrictive procedures, such as adjustable gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, and malabsorption techniques like gastric bypass. Bariatric surgery has become the most effective option in the management of morbid obesity, providing excellent short-term and long-term

outcomes, decreasing overall mortality and providing a marked survival advantage.

“This line of treatment, performed through laparoscopy, and is now very popular as it corresponds well with the increasing prevalence of obesity. One of the most effective and most commonly performed bariatric surgeries is sleeve gastrectomy; it’s become a novel surgical treatment option over the last ten years,” continues the doctor.

The surgery includes creating a long, tubular gastric conduit, leaving only the remaining portion of the stomach that is shaped like a sleeve. It permanently reduces the size of the stomach by about 70 to 85 per cent. Based on follow-up periods of six months to three years, patients with sleeve gastrectomy were found to have lost 33 to 83 per cent of their excess weight. The complication rates are three per cent, with an overall reported mortality rate of 0.39 per cent. Studies also show that it appears to be safer overall when compared to other well-established procedures.

“After the surgery, all that is needed is for the patient to follow a strict diet, which includes four to six small meals every day, drinking plenty of water, 30 minutes of daily exercise and daily supplement of vitamins. They need also to be checked every four to six weeks during the first one year,” adds the doctor. E Call 17 812-000.

June 2013 141

marketplace FRASER SUITES SEEF BAHRAIN

Award-winning Quality The Kingdom’s first full-service premium accommodation has received one of the most prestigious awards in its field.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN

Freshen Up! This summer, the fitness centre at a five-star hotel brings you a range of summer activities to keep you and your family entertained.

Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain has been named ‘Bahrain’s Leading Serviced Apartments’ by the World Travel Awards 2013, in the country’s extended stay market, as announced at a gala ceremony in Dubai recently.

The World Travel Awards are the largest and most prestigious awards in the travel industry, being voted for by travel and tourism professionals worldwide. Often regarded as the ‘travel Oscars’, they are the ultimate hallmark of quality, being a recognition of Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain’s commitment to excellence and continuing endeavours to improve its products and services.

“We are very pleased to receive this recognition,” said Olivier Briand, general manager of Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain.

“Delivering the gold-standard service excellence that is synonymous with the brand is at the heart of everything we do, and receiving this accolade is evidence that our efforts are being recognised by those who know us best.”

Located in the heart of the city with direct access to one of the Kingdom’s premier shopping destinations, Seef Mall, the 19-storey serviced apartments are an easy stroll from leading businesses, corporate venues, designer shops, gourmet restaurants and first-class entertainment.

With 90 residences that range from spacious studios to threebedroom suites and penthouses with magnificent panoramic views of Bahrain’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf, every floor has been designed to accommodate eight suites for greater privacy and security. Each apartment has been elegantly styled with open-plan living and dining areas, featuring the highest quality furnishings, including Herman Miller chairs, Bose home theatre systems and iPod docking stations. E Call 17 569-333.

Enjoy the sunny weather while you tone your body and improve your fitness level at bFit @ Crowne Plaza Bahrain. The centre offers a wide range of fitness and recreational activities for adults and kids in separate pools, allowing you to relax as a family. The little ones can take advantage of the outdoor kids play area as well.

It offers a range of cardiovascular equipment furnished with individual monitors and headsets. You may also enjoy an extensive variety of advanced equipment and free weights.

The expert personal trainers are ready to help you attain your individual fitness goals. Two squash courts and two outdoor tennis courts were recently renovated to offer all sports enthusiasts.

Unwind in luxury The relaxation area is furnished with comfortable loungers.

Sauna and steam rooms are designed to rest your body and make you feel at ease, while enjoying complimentary amenities such as calming ginger tea, fresh fruits as well as lemon and mint leaves flavoured water.

Separate timings, lockers, changing and shower facilities for ladies are also available. No matter what your level of fitness, bFit @ Crowne Plaza Bahrain offers you a pleasant and hospitable environment where you can feel relaxed and comfortable. It is open from 5am until 11pm.

The swimming pools and outdoor kids play area open from 7am until 8pm.

E Call 17 531-122.

142 June 2013

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BMI BANK

Spend and Win! Double your chances of winning fabulous prizes when you use this new credit card; you might even win a brand-new luxury villa!

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Here’s more reason to use BMI Bank’s newly launched Ayadi Plus Diners Club credit card, both at home and abroad. Not only could you win cash prizes on the Bank’s Ayadi Savings Scheme but Diyar Homes villas as well.

The Ayadi Plus Diners Club credit card is an extension to the existing Ayadi saving scheme, where card holders are automatically entered into draws on every BD50 worth of transactions made using the card, including payments made online as well as during travel abroad.

Available exclusively to its existing Ayadi savings scheme customers, the card features one of the lowest interest rates in the market.

Earlier this year, BMI Bank unveiled a refreshed savings scheme offering customers its biggest prize pool ever, US$1.8 million, for 2013. The scheme now offers customers four Diyar Homes villas as grand prizes; in addition to 416 winners to be rewarded every month, 30 daily prizes during Ramadan and 24 special cash prizes introduced for the benefit of students, to be given out throughout the year.

“Since its re-launch in 2011, the response to our flagship scheme has been tremendous with customers choosing to repose their faith in the scheme through additional deposits,” observes Jamal Al-Hazeem, chief executive officer of BMI Bank.

“Since then, the product has grown significantly and, through the various unique prizes offered, we are confident

that it’s been an equally rewarding journey for our loyal customers as well. We are therefore pleased to roll out Ayadi Plus, our second co-branded credit card following La Carte, with Géant Hypermarket, in the hope of further enhancing our customers’ banking experience and rewarding them for their loyalty,” he adds.

The Ayadi Plus card has been designed specifically for customers seeking a rewarding card offering, with minimal processing time and effort required. It stems from the Bank’s commitment to continue to provide customers with innovative financial solutions.

“Customers who pledge their Ayadi savings scheme deposits with the bank will receive a limit of up to 90 per cent of their deposits on their Ayadi Plus card and will automatically receive additional chances to win prizes,” he adds.

“We believe that this initiative is a step further along the path of strengthening our position as a strong retail bank in Bahrain and we will continue to work on creating innovative and customer-centric products in the coming days.”

Ayadi Plus customers will, however, not be eligible to win the Ayadi for Students prizes. Held at the bank’s corporate offices at the Bahrain World Trade Center, the draws will be supervised by the bank’s internal auditors, external auditors Ernst & Young and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

E Visit www.bmibank.com.bh or call 17 508-080.

June 2013 143

marketplace THE GULF EYE CENTER

Healthy Sight From the most basic issues to the severest of illnesses, eye care is one aspect of your health that needs the attention of the best in the field.

FRESH LAUNDRY

Keep It Clean Are you wasting precious minutes of your busy day by running errands? Here is how to get your life back.

The Gulf Eye Centre is the newest facility under the Gulf Diabetes Specialist Centre (GDSC). It specialises in the diagnoses and management of all medical and surgical eye diseases by providing comprehensive and complete routine, refractive, optical and screening services to the entire region.

The state-of-the-art facilities boast the most advanced and sophisticated laser machines, investigation equipment and a fully fledged operation theatre. The centre specialises in various ophthalmic care treatments, making it the most recognised client-and-family centred complex in the region.

The centre provides three sub-specialities including medical specialities of screening and treatment. This includes diabetic retinopathy, vitreous hemorrhage and intra vitreal injections as well as the use of Pascal and Zeiss laser machines. Treatment of keratoconus with cross-linking technology is also available.

Surgical specialities include sutureless cataract surgery, refractive and corneal procedures and oculoplastic procedures like botox and fillers. Diagnostic aids are provided through ocular ultrasonography, ultra biomicroscopy, corneal topography, automated field of vision and intraocular lens measurement.

The centre offers diagnostic advice and personalised treatment options with quality service at a competitive price.

The team of experts is made up of high-calibre board-certified ophthalmologists, licensed optometrists and nurses.

GDSC was previously affiliated with Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston until 2007. The centre has since expanded in terms of services from merely covering diabetes to encompassing all endocrinology disorders.

E Call 17 239-171 or 17 239-239 or visit www.gulfdiabetes.com Between going to work, taking care of a family and salvaging some alone time, you could definitely use an extra hand around the house. One way of getting more hours in a day is by cutting out a tedious chore. Fresh Laundry is a Bahrain-based laundry service provider that can change your life.

Offering professional door-to-door pressing and dry cleaning services, the company also provides helpful services such as clothes alteration and even shoe repairs.

Basically, all you have to do is have your clothes ready to be picked up, freeing you of all those hours spent washing and ironing.

“With our reliable, affordable and distinguished quality services, we help you save money and time.

Removing the hassle of doing the load by yourself spares time for your job, family, kids and a healthier lifestyle of working out and relaxing,” says Younis A.Rahim, founder of Fresh Laundry.

The firm currently has three branches and, with all the positive responses they’ve been receiving, the opening of a fourth branch is in the works. The reliable, door-to-door pick-up and delivery service covers many areas in the Kingdom.

At Fresh Laundry, they have a team of skilled and dedicated staff who go out of their way to ensure their customers, whether domestic or commercial, receive the best possible service. They use the best products and processes available and never take short cuts to guarantee premium quality. All you have to do is pick up the phone and give their expert team your address.

E Call 17 162-162.

144 June 2013

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bni

Risk-proofing Events What do you do when the event you’ve been planning for months has to be called off at the 11th hour? Get reimbursed, of course!

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Any organiser would attest that planning an event, be it a concert, a conference, a motivational talk or a trade show, involves a substantial amount of time, money, effort and liaison with various stakeholders. Despite their best efforts, if something were to go wrong and the event is called off, the financial liability on the part of organisers and sponsors can be crippling.

Bahrain National Insurance’s (bni) event cancellation insurance can help you safeguard against such an eventuality.

“We offer event management companies, sponsors and event planners cover against the cancellation of their event due to reasons such as fire, adverse weather, travel delay, non-appearance of performers and national mourning,” says Eman Mujali, senior manager, business development (general insurance), at bni.

“We’ll pay for the consequences of such cancellations, which could either involve the reimbursement of only expenses as well as profits they’d have made otherwise.” Designed to provide you with peace of mind and financial protection, the policy also covers cancellation when serious injury or illness prevents a key participant or performer from attending.

“A safeguard against cancellation is crucial for the health of event management business. We’ve seen some instances in the past where companies were driven out of business because they weren’t adequately protected against such eventualities,” adds Masood Bader, assistant general manager (general insurance), bni.

Masood observes that a medium budget concert with performers flown in from abroad can cost the organisers upwards of BD50,000.

Masood Bader and Eman Mujali

“The policy also offers a sense of continuity for the business, in the sense that it will help cover the expenses. Since the organisers are being reimbursed, they can reschedule the event,” he says.

Those desiring additional cover against riots, strikes and malicious damage can opt for an extension to their event policy, in the form of a sabotage and terrorism policy.

Bahrain’s events calendar has been abuzz in recent years, with many international events such as the Bahrain Grand Prix, the Air Show, the annual Boat Show and Jewellery Arabia finding space on the Kingdom’s roster alongside initiatives by the Ministry of Culture in the form of the Spring of Culture, Manama Capital of Culture and other trade shows.

A bigger liability Much more serious than the cancellation of an event is the eventuality of an accident that causes bodily injuries and damage to property. According to Masood, this is an eventuality that no organiser can ignore because the liability can be huge, with several hundred lives involved. bni’s Event Liability Policy is another offering that event planners could top up to make their event fully risk-proof.

This type of insurance protects you as the event manager, organiser or sponsor from the consequences of bodily injury and property damage arising during your event up to the amount insured.

E Call 17 587-400 or visit www.bnidirect.com.

June 2013 145

marketplace

ROUBEN’S STORES

Printing Innovation Sharp Middle East’s brand new MX-7040N and MX-6240N digital full colour multifunction printers are perfect for high volume office production.

146 June 2013

The highly automated light production machines have been designed by the international electronics giants primarily for corporate reprographic departments. The launch has been making quiet some noise with pay-for-print firms that need the agility to react quickly to urgent, unscheduled jobs. “With its high levels of productivity, increased user-friendliness and unparalleled reliability, we’re proud to launch our first entry into the competitive, but lucrative production arena,” says Tomoo Shimizu, director of business solutions, Sharp Middle East.

To make things as easy as possible, Sharp has equipped the new MFPs with a large colour touch screen which is operated by ‘finger-swipe’ technology; similar to that which is commonly found in smartphones and tablet PCs. Finger-swipe control simplifies every task including all printing, copying, scanning and finishing operations. A large selection of finishing options makes it possible for customers to produce a wider range of documents in-house, giving them the benefit of financial savings, faster reaction times and better security for sensitive or time-critical documents.

The MX-7040N and MX-6240N MFPs provide exceptional performance and expandability to meet the most discerning of business needs. With true 1,200x1,200 dpi high-quality printing,

a 10.1-inch colour LCD touchscreen and the option of Internet browsing and printing of web pages is made available. The multifunctional systems ensure enhanced usability, superb image quality and advanced functionality.

The range is equipped with a 3,100-sheet paper capacity and seamless printing with an immediate toner hopper to ensure continuous runs during cartridge replacement. In terms of build quality, they feature an environmentally-advanced design which is free of lead and chromium, and feature a short warm up time, contributing to overall energy savings.

“Sharp prides itself on developing the latest printing solutions to ensure businesses can enhance their productivity through smarter, more efficient and more reliable devices. It is targeted to both print and copy bureaus and in corporate reprographic departments of larger-scale corporations. The launch of the new line-up is part of Sharp’s overall business strategy to increase penetration in the colour printing segment and grow market share into the lucrative production arena. The range is a great addition to our solid MFP line-up,” explains Ravinder Kumar, general manager of sales at Sharp Middle East.

E Call 17 227-770.

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listingsthismonth Social Clubs

Arts Culture Art Galleries Al Riwaq Art Gallery Albareh Art Gallery Arabesque Art Gallery Art Lounge Ella Art Gallery

17 717-441 17 717-707 17 722-916 17 580-522 17 292-815

Art Galleries & Framing

Bahrain Art Framing Centre 17 717165 Lamarkiz Framing & Gallery 17 596-284

Arts & Cultural Groups

Alliance Française 17 683-295 Bahrain Arts Society 17 590-562 Contemporary Art Society 3 9224-002 Historical & Archaeological Society

17 727-895 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

17 230-123

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Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre Crafts Centre Gallery Celebrations L’Atelier Art Lounge Things-To-Do

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Ballet Centre Ballare School Futureshape Studio Salsa Bahrain Sampaguita Club Victoria Dance Centre

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Dance

Drama, Film and Theatre

Bahrain Cinema Club 17 725-959 Dilmun Amateur Dramatics 17 690-926 Folk Poetry Society 17 761-000

Indian arts & culture

Institute for Performing Arts 17 231-717 Kalabhavan Bahrain Institute 17 717-271 17 243-511 Konkan Singers Club

Islamic Culture

Bapco Club Dilmun Club Filipino Club Marina Club Pakistan Club The British Club The Country Club The Indian Club The Sri Lanka Club The Young Goans Club

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3 8357-181 3 9911-848 17 262-143 3 9911-848

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Bahrain Pottery Society Studio Ceramics

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Clubs Societies Ladies Clubs American Women’s Assoc. 17 685-882 Australasian Women (AWG) 3 8395-803 Awali Ladies Association 17 678-947 Business Women’s Society 17 721-188 Discover Islam Ladies 17 531-400 Hamad Town Women’s Association

17 422-005 Indian Ladies Association 17 531-468 International Ladies Group 17 729-128 Pakistani Women’s Assoc. 17 710-944 Young Ladies Society 17 262-237 Young Ladies Toastmasters 17 626-237 Women’s Society 17 826-777

148 June 2013

Mind Games

Bridge Club Bahrain Scrabble League

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Amateur Athletic Association 17 684-905 American Chamber Comm. 17 580-516 Badminton & Squash Fed. 17 292-662 Australian Association 3 9206-432 Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Bar Society 17 725-665 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Bankers’ Society of Bahrain 17 728-003 17 741-010 Basketball Association British Business Forum 3 9651-755 Bowling Association 17 822-077 Businessmen’s Association 17 229-009 Chess Federation 17 252-133 French Business Club 17 748-999 17 650-079 Cycling Association Language Courses Disabled Sports Federation 17 789-191 Alliance Française 17 683-295 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Berlitz 17 827-847 Football Association 17 729-563 The British Council 17 261-555 Handball Association 17 720-321 Other Associations 17 253-209 Hockey Association Baloch Club 17 292-231 Maritime Sports Association 17 836-078 Garden Club 17 727-625 Martial Arts Association 17 650-676 Pakistan Association 3 9415-200 Mind Sports Association 17 340-016 Skal International Bahrain 17 22-4050 Shooting & Fencing Assoc. 17 750-006 17 825-301 Snooker Association Sports Recreation Swimming Association 17 680-867 Aerobics Table Tennis Association 17 729-393 Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Volleyball Association 17 271-139 Curves Fitness Clinic for Women

17 691-496 Teens Kids 17 692-378 Ez Fit SportPlex Athletics World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576 Road Runners 3 6992-288

Al Bayan Society Beit Al Quran Discover Islam

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Ghassan’s Style Kickboxing 3 9458-293 Karate Centre 3 9247-769 17 813-856 Taichi & Wushu Center Japan Karate Association 17 591-237 3 9690-008 Marina Club Reza Martial Arts Centre 17 694-646 3 9626-211 Shotokan Karate World Beat Fitness Center 17 612-576 Yong Quan Tha Chi 3 9667-624 17 611-909 Zen-Do Bahrain

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Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Bahrain Karate Center 17 612-576 Bin Jamal Taekwondo Center 3 6222-892 Delmon Taekwondo School 3 9689-659 Futureshape Studio 17 592-019

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Ballet Centre 3 9676-349 Victoria Dance Centre 3 9876-215 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

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Ez-Fit SportPlex SLC grounds, Riffa

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Health Clubs (Hotels)

Banyan Tree Resort & Spa 17 845-000 Crowne Plaza Health Club 17 531-122 17 535-000 Golden Tulip Health Club 17 713-000 Gulf Hotel Health Club Le Mirage, Diplomat Hotel 17 531-666 17 227-777 Regency Fitness Centre 36 270-302 RJ’s, Ramee Int'l Hotel 17 524-570 Sheraton Fitness Sporting Club, Ritz-Carlton 17 580-000 The Gym, Mövenpick Hotel 17 460-000

Kids Fitness Centres

Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports (CHAOSS) 17 592-096 17 566-566 My Gym Bahrain

QR Codes: On-The-Go Reading You can now read Bahrain This Month while you are out and about, from the comfort of your own phone — just simply download a free app which allows you direct access to the online magazine. Both iPhone, iPad2 and BlackBerry users can enjoy this simple convenience by following these simple steps;

iPhone/iPad2 users Step 1: Search for i-nigma on the Apple app store Step 2: Download i-nigma on your iPhone or Pad, free of charge Step 3: After downloading is complete, click on the i-nigma icon Step 4: Finally, simply scan the QR code to be directed to a page on the designated page on the web

Awali Riding Club 17 756-525 Dilmun Club 17 692-986 Riding School 17 690-448 Shakhoora Riding School 17 591-103 The Country Club 17 593-593

Marine & Sailing Sailing Club Yacht Club

Martial Arts

17 700-677 17 700-677

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Al Hala Sports Club 3 9966-139 Balouch Club 17 292-231 British Club 17 728-245 Delmon Tae Kwon Do School 3 9689-659 Taichi & Wushu Centre 3 6437-931

Health Fitness Fitness Gyms

Al Gosaibi Gym Coral Beach Club Dessange Health Club Ez-Fit Sportsplex Ghassans Gym

17 293-221 17 312-777 17 713-999 17 692-379 17 695-911

BlackBerry users Step 1: Search for ‘QR Code Scanner Pro’ in the Blackberry app world, either online or directly from your phone Step 2: Download the app, free of charge Step 3: Click on the application and scan the code Step 4: On scanning, you will be directed to site referenced in the QR code There are two QR codes used this issue; on the front cover, on First Word (page 11).

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Who runs Bahrain City Centre? ___________________________

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June 2013 149

tarotscopethismonth

Gemini

May 21 – June 20 June is traditionally your month and the time of the year that many of you will celebrate your birthdays. With this in mind, a surprise party could be organised for you in 2013, perhaps to commemorate a significant milestone or maybe just to demonstrate that you are loved by those closest to you. The point is that you are likely to stumble across the plan in advance so try to keep this to yourself and act surprised when it is ‘sprung’ upon you. Someone is going to a lot of trouble so make sure you show them you care by playing the game on this occasion.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Wands For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Cancer June 21 – July 20 At heart yours is a very sociable sign, although you might not always make this apparent to those who know you. In many respects your secretive, insular side makes you a difficult person to approach and many are put off simply by your often crabby exterior. Those of you looking to engage in a new relationship might already have someone in mind but, if you are going to make a success of this endeavour, you really are going to have to let that inner-self shine through. If not, you are unlikely to make it much beyond a first date. If you really care, make the effort.

Card of the Month — The Ten of Wands

leo July 21 – August 21 An invitation to attend an overseas event this month is going to open the door to a host of new opportunities for you; it may change the complexion of your year. The downside could be a lot of time spent away from family and loved ones. But if you can manage the separation well, it will be to everyone’s benefit in the long run. This will come as a welcome relief financially as many of you have been struggling lately, even after tightening those purse strings. You are finding it a difficult time to get through.

Card of the Month —The King of Swords

150 June 2013

Virgo August 22 – September 22 You’ll need to slow down this month as recent hard work and overexertion are likely to take their toll on you. Why not consider a break or even a short trip away? I know for some of you the last 12 months have involved a lot of travelling, but throughout all that time you never just lay on a beach and took in some sun. This is your chance; grab a good book, pack your towel and trunks or swimming costume and get on the first plane out of here! You’ll come back recharged and raring to go within a fortnight!

Card of the Month — The Two of Cups

Libra September 23 – October 21 Those of you looking for romance may find that this month will present you with a good chance to really extend your options thanks to a party invite around the 17th. You’re never going to meet someone unless you get out there and socialise, and recent events have prevented that from happening. However, this occasion will allow you to let your hair down and, in like-minded company, you’re only going to be limited by your ambition. If your heart is set on someone you meet then do everything you can to get her or him to notice you!

Card of the Month — The Moon

Scorpio October 22 – November 21 Don’t allow yourself to be pushed into purchasing something outside your means this month as you might find yourself regretting the situation in the weeks to come. If an over-anxious friend or companion tries to persuade you towards extravagance be sure to respond in the negative.

It will not be a good time of the year for you to contemplate any type of purchase that leaves you with a long-term debt to settle. Additionally, be sure to double-check any accounts in your daily working life as you may find that an error escapes your attention first time around.

Card of the Month — The Emperor

Sagittarius November 22 – December 21 Here’s a dilemma for many of you to ponder over this month in relation to a business interest. A work colleague with a plan to start a new project, which carries a high risk factor, may approach you.

While risk is not a word you often allow to enter your vocabulary or thinking, this opportunity is one that should not be dismissed without a little applied thought. So long as the investment figure suggested is a low one, think hard about the idea.

The rewards could be great, no matter how hare-brained the scheme might initially seem. Things could kick off as early as the 4th, so be prepared to test the waters soon!

Card of the Month — The Lovers

Capricorn ­December 22 – January 18 How many times have your friends told you to bite your tongue?

For some of you, I think the answer might be quite a few. For while you might be renowned as one of the more level-headed signs of the zodiac, you also have a reputation for sometimes being one of the less diplomatic — especially when your temper gets the better of your reason! A close friend who is feeling particularly vulnerable following a recent break-up could be in the firing line of your verbal assaults as you allow unfounded gossip to disrupt your relationship. Be careful about what you say otherwise you might shed some tears of your own!

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man

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advertisersindex Aquarius ­January 19 – ­February 20 You are about to experience a new era in your life and many of the initial changes are not likely to be ones you can adapt to easily.

More than anything you need to focus on the things that matter most to you and perhaps, for the first time, bury the pride that has held you back for so long. Open your heart to the people who really care. Financially, you may find that things will be tight but you should be sure that you do not cling to possessions just for the sake of it. If you are able to sell what you no longer use you might just benefit from the extra cash in your pocket.

Card of the Month — The Queen of Swords

pisces February 21 – March 20 Temptation waits for you at every corner this month, and you will need to be at your very strongest to resist. One of your big failings as a water sign is not being able to keep a strong hold of your emotions or feelings. It is a lesson you need to learn through experience [DASH] both good and bad. Try not to go crazy and spend a fortune just for the sake of it or you’ll be nursing your regrets for some time. Be sensible! On the relationship front, you may discover an admirer from times past decides to make a move on you. The long-term signs are positive, if you don’t let your enthusiasm get the better of you.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Swords

The summer is approaching and thoughts of holidays and getaways will populate your mind. Planning will begin in earnest around the 10th and, after a rather lacklustre break in 2012, you are setting your mind on something a lot more substantial this year. Additionally, property may occupy your thoughts for the latter part of June as an investment matures and you seek to expand a portfolio you have been slowly building. If you are quick and even a little crafty, you might just uncover a real bargain around the 27th, so keep your eyes open!

Card of the Month — The Star

Taurus ­April 21 – May 20 You love this time of year and for your sign there is a great deal to look forward to, particularly when it comes to relationships, Whether it is a longstanding partnership or new romance on the horizon, the approach of summer will add an additional spring to your step that only benefits your feelings towards a loved one. Try to build on this by planning new experiences together; your recent busy schedule has kept you away from that special person for longer than you would have liked, and that is something which needs to change.

Card of the Month — The Four of Swords

Shia Labeouf

Drew Carey

FAMOUS Gemini THIS MONTH

Donald Trump

Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . . . . 97 BMI Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 bni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Home & Furnishings BoConcept . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Hotels & Luxury Apartments Crowne Plaza Bahrain Hotel . . . . . . . . . 100 Fraser Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Golden Tulip Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel . . . . . . . . . 11 Pars International Hotel . . . . . . . . . . .89,91 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Ramee Baisan International . . . . . . . . . 109 Ramee California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel. . . . . . 96 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Jewellery & Watches

Aries March 21 – April 20

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Financial Institutions

Asia Jewellers (Cartier) . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC AJM Kooheji (Roberto Coin) . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Sharif Group (Jaguar) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . 35 Gulf Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Motoring Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . 21 Almoayyed Motors (Ford) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Ebrahim K Kanoo (Volvo). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 First Motors (Hyundai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 National Motors (Cadillac) . . . . . . . . . . . 29

YK Almoayyed (Nissan). . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Zayani Motors (Peugeot). . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Others AJM Kooheji Group (LG) . . . . . . . . . . . . .IFC Bahrain City Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Bahrain Olympic Committee . . . . . . . . . . 68 Bahrain Science Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Dream Body Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Fresh Laundry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Gajria (Touchmate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Intercol (Kohinoor) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Intercol (Nokia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39,59 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Pottery Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Pottery Barn Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Radio Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147 Rouben’s Store (Sharp) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 VLCC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro (Frigidaire) . . . . . . 53 Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro (Severin) . . . . . . . 61

Restaurants & Cafés Aroma Café & Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Asha’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Bice Risorante . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Block 338 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Maki Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Nino Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 PF Chang’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Vapiano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Telecommunications Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 VIVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

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

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

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

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

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

June 2013 151

lastword

Flying Large JAMES CLAIRE I have never used this page for venting raw emotion and personal fury, but this month a subject has my chubby cheeks blazing red — airlines!

152 June 2013

I have travelled regularly since my youth. I received my first set of golden wings prior to frequent flyer points being a thought in the minds of marketing managers around the world.

Airlines have come and gone, crashed and bankrupted themselves many times over in the five decades I have been on this planet. Some great concepts, strategies and ideas have blazed across the skies over the same period, and some truly stupid ones, too. Hooters Airways was my favourite.

It surely can’t be easy to run an airline; so many competitors and so many routes which surely can’t be profitable. Yet there are always a few of us wanting to go somewhere unusual and we expect a plane to take us there.

So, why my bursting blood vessels? Well, recently in the hunt for profits a few airlines have discussed the ever-growing girth of passengers and have toyed with the option of charging passengers by their weight. Samoan Airlines, in the Pacific, has in fact begun to do so.

Here’s a word to those sickly, thin, stick-like accountants who contrived this idea in the safety of their food-bare offices. I have flown often. In flying to 100 countries over five decades and around 800 flights, I’m sure I have kept airlines profitable. The fact that fuel prices are high right now is not my fault!

I can think of fewer, more stupid ideas in my lifetime than to suggest that fat people get charged by weight. Perhaps in cake shops, skinny people should be charged triple for entering the door! You are, after all, wasting the staff’s time and energy bringing your frail bodies into such an establishment.

If flights are all about weight, then I suggest something fairer. I may be morbidly obese according to the scales, but I usually also travel very light. I’m fat; we sweat and we hate to lift heavy items. Frankly, baggage bothers me. I fly with a change of shirt

and a hand-carry full of paper towel to wipe my sweating brow.

Unlike those skinny torsos that bring boxes, televisions, plastic bags and trolleys, I don’t fill up the overhead bins before anyone can even get seated beside them. What about those inconsiderate passengers who abuse the hand-carry rules and bring two bags, a suit pack, camera, hand bag, duty free and snacks on board. Why don’t the airlines enforce their own regulations, or charge people for the ‘excess’ they bring with them?

Perhaps, like cargo companies, the airlines should charge by dimensional size, which includes size and weight, where a pound of feathers costs more than a pound of gold due to taking up more space. I may be worth my weight in gold but I take up less room than the skinny guy and his removal truck filling the cargo hold.

But, okay, fat flyers use more fuel. Then rid the plane of china, cutlery, glassware, magazines and paper in first and business class. It’s all about weight, so why carry heavy luxuries.

One thing I can’t object to is reality — I am fatter than most.

If airlines want me to pay for the fact that I’m heavier, then you know what…

I really wouldn’t mind, except for one thing! I’ll pay more but put in a new class and bigger seats for fatties. Why should I pay by the pound and yet squeeze my hulking largess into the cattle pens in economy.

And that’s really the issue, I guess. According to what some airlines have suggested about weight and cost, it would be easier for me to pay for a business class seat and sit in luxury and dine in style.

Perhaps my anger is wasted when, in essence, they just want us fatties to sit in comfort upfront. Not such a bad idea, although I‘m not sure how so much weight all the way forward can help the plane get off the ground!

If skinny accountants don’t want to pay for our excess, they should walk to their destination and forget flying altogether.

I’m too fat to walk. And if I did, you’d want to charge me for ruining the roadways and sidewalks.

Better still, skinny accountants should stay trim and fit and walk to Paris from Bahrain — then they wouldn’t have to worry about us fat flyers and what it costs us to get somewhere.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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