Bahrain This Month - June 2015

DINING RAMADAN | SUPERMARKETS & RETAIL | SAUD KANOO

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MAKING WAVES RED BULL KITE THE WAJ, RETURNS

Calisthenics World Cup Interview: Vineet Bhatia

June 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 6

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

triple the data. triple the fun. with VIVA 4G LTE Home Broadband Plans

VIVA brings you the ultimate Home Broadband Plan for your family. Triple your data and download your favourite movies & music and watch the latest shows. Get free access to social networks, router and home line in addition to free unlimited calls to all VIVA numbers.

Plan Broadband 7

Monthly Rental

Data*

BD 7

5GB 15GB

Broadband 10

BD 10

10GB 30GB

Broadband 15

BD 15

15GB 45GB

Broadband 25

BD 25

30GB 90GB

Broadband 35

BD 35

60GB 180GB

* Available on 24 months contract. Other options are available on 12 months contract or without contract.

GEORGE GEORGE CLOONEY’S CLOONEY’S CHOICE CHOICE

OMEGA Boutiques: OMEGAModa Boutiques: Mall Moda (Sheraton MallComplex) (SheratonTel: Complex) 17537753 Tel: Bahrain 17537753 CityBahrain CentreCity Tel: 17100135 Centre Tel: 17100135

Moda Mall: 17534444 Al-Aali Mall: 17581444 Seef Mall: 17587888 Ritz- Carlton Hotel: 17580123 City Centre: 17179009 www.asiajewellers.com

Issue 214

Contents June 2015 COVER STORY 24 Fly High

Get ready for an adrenaline-filled weekend as a regional amateur kitesurfing competition, Red Bull Kite The Waj, returns to the island for its second year.

HAPPENINGS

24

Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of June 2015.

Clean Up Drive:

23

A beach clean up at Al Dar Islands 26

BSPCA Fashion Show:

Show how much you appreciate your four-pawed friends and help raise funds for their welfare.

28

Live Music:

Paul Adams returns to the island to entertain audiences with live music at Bahrain Rugby Football Club.

30

Cracking Comedy:

The Chuckle Club Returns.

28

32

40

Laugh Out Loud:

Chuckle Club returns.

34

Reggae Beats:

Coral Bay hosts a reggae festival on the beach.

36

Future of Retail:

The third Bahrain Retail Congress conference

AFTER DARK 34

Time to Tron:

Get ready for a spectacular season closer with LED-suit clad dancers at Mai-Tai.

37

23

37

INTERVIEWS At Chef’s Table

Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia joins George F Middleton to discuss food, flavours and his culinary prowess at his latest venture, Rasoi By Vineet in Gulf Hotel.

38-39

Pull Your Own Weight

Fitness fanatic Shehab Saeed is hoping to put the Kingdom under a global spotlight as he prepares for a fitness completion with a twist.

42

A Cool Way to Beat The Heat

55 Bystander

The Kingdom’s Rotary clubs are on a mission to ensure needy families have essential foodstuffs this Ramadan.

June’s bystander pages have a distinctly royal feel with a reception to mark the birthday of HM Queen Elizabeth II of Britain and the Oranjefeest in celebration of Dutch King’s Day. Our snappers also attended a regatta at Bahrain Yacht Club, theatre and musical performances and a whole range of other celebrations not to mention new car and store launches. www.bahrainthismonth.com

42

As the searing summer sun returns to the Kingdom, one man is on a mission to ensure that workers are better protected from sun stress.

44

46-47

A Helping Hand

Building on Community

One of the driving forces behind the Amwaj Islands project talks to BTM about its modest beginnings and future plans for the development.

48

JLR Backseat Chat

Bahrain’s calendar of cultural events is always abuzz with activity, even during the slower summer months.

BTM catches up with Dr Elie Flouty, a man who helps make it happen.

June 2015 9

Introducing Bahrain’s fastest Home Broadband with 300Mbps speed Enjoy the fastest, most stable internet connection with Batelco's new 300Mbps service. Breath-taking speeds give you the most incredible downloads in an instant. Watch full HD movies with a single click, or enjoy playing the most demanding games with the region's lowest latency speeds. It's here now and it's only from Batelco.

Subscribe today at any Batelco shop or call 196.

Terms & Conditions apply

batelco.com

Issue 214

Contents June 2015 FEATURE Supermarkets and Retail Outlets: 55-68

71

Retail Therapy:

Shopping on the island is never more fun than at Ramadan when many of the supermarkets and malls have special deals, promotions and prizes. BTM rounds up the best places to visit in our special report.

LIFESTYLE Motoring:

The Power to Surprise:

71

The 2015 KIA Sorento is an honest and competitivelypriced SUV with a tasty new look.

72

More Power, Better Value:

The new Volkswagen Jetta has undergone dramatic changes both inside and out and is aiming to impress with its two model configurations.

73

87

73

Truly Terrific Turbo:

This luxury SUV is proof that Porsche deserves its reputation as a performance brand.

75

On Track For Success:

The BMW M meets X event is a driving experience aimed at showcasing sophisticated and stylish innovations from the German automotive powerhouse.

Downtime:

Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 86 Music: Top Tunes 87 Computer Games: The hot games of the month 88 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 89 Apps: Sophisticated new apps 90 Movies: Age of Ultron 85

Dining:

93

93

100

A Delicious Discovery:

Masaya Café & Lounge, in Adliya’s Block 338, has undergone a revamp that stretches from its menu to its management and the result is a pleasant surprise.

Dining Ramadan: 100-116

Ramadan Kareem:

Bahrain This Month brings you an essential guide to the best Iftar and Ghabga options the Kingdom has to offer.

Showcase:

What’s New: Must-have products 120 Marketplace: Latest products and services 119

85

90

Regulars:

WIN WIN Tarotscope 143 AD Index 144 Last Word 141

142

86 www.bahrainthismonth.com

119 June 2015 11

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month June 2015

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Editor Charlie Holding Commercial Editor Apple Sharma Assistant Editor Ankita Mamgain

The first half of this year seems to have gone by in the blink of an eye — and it’s hard to believe that Ramadan begins in the second half of this month.

However, before the Holy Month actually begins, the Kingdom will be abuzz with frenzied activities. One of the highlights is the amateur kitesurfing competition, Red Bull Kite The Waj. Kite surfers from around the region will descend upon Amwaj Islands from June 4 to June 6 showing off their skills.

Meanwhile, a celebration of all things Turkish takes place from June 3 to 13 at Ramli Mall. The 10-day festival will give Bahrain’s residents a taste of that country’s abundant delights including food, dancing, music and handicrafts.

Although from mid-month, the long summer days may seem quiet from dawn to dusk, the island springs back to life with vigour as the sun sets.

We’ve compiled an essential list of vibrant venues offering Iftar and Ghabga events.

Our motoring feature showcases the best deals around town for those looking to upgrade their vehicle. And, as always, BTM editor Charlie Holding puts the latest offerings from the Kingdom’s leading automotive brands under the spotlight.

In this month’s JLR Backseat Chat, George F Middleton takes a spin in a gleaming new Jaguar XF with the media advisor of Bahrain Authority of Culture and Antiquities, Dr Elie Flouty.

Our interview section is packed full of exciting exclusives including a special tête-à-tête with the organiser of Bahrain’s first Calisthenics World Cup competition. We also caught up with Saud Kanoo, chairman of Ossis Property Developers – the company behind Amwaj Islands – to chat about future plans for the iconic development.

With some of the warmest months on record achieved in earlier months this year, please make sure you take all possible precautions as the Holy Month begins so we can all enjoy the great way of life the Kingdom has to offer.

Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel

Photography Editor Zilia Monteiro Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Tara Vamadeven Pillai Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

Published monthly by

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

•

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

COVER Cover Picture:

Kitesurfing

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

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

DINING RAMADAN | SUPERMARKETS & RETAIL | SAUD KANOO

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

MAKING WAVES

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

RED BULL KITE THE WAJ, RETURNS

Calisthenics World Cup Interview: Vineet Bhatia

June 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 6

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Connect with Bahrain This Month: Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

Nightlife

June 2015 13

bystander

HE Shaikh Abdulla

Emma & Neil

HRH Queen Elizabeth II Birthday Party HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador & wife Bridget hosted a celebration at the embassy’s gardens to mark the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The event was attended by His Highness Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty King Hamad’s Personal Representative, HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Foreign Affairs Minister, members of the diplomatic corps, members of the British community and guests.

Dignitaries cut the cake

Tom & Talal

Margaret, Anna & Craig

HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador & Nasser Al Arayedh

Bridget, Vanessa & Andrea

14 June 2015

Yara, Hiba & Joanne

Peter & Alison

Liam & Matt

Julius & HE Kiyoshi Asako, Japanese Ambassador

Julia & Taher

Geraldine & Mohammed

Mary, Andrew, Nick & Michelle

Sarah & Nicky

Rachel

Matt & Chris

Tim & Victoria

Lee & Saeed

Tatum, Ross & Jan

Ann & Romina

Peter

Debbie & Ehsha

Gernot & Tim

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

HE Mohammed bin Yousif, Tunisian Ambassador & HE Abdulla Al Medailwi, Omani Ambassador

gulfBID2015 Opening A triad of leading trade shows – gulfBID, Gulf Property Show and gulfInteriors – were officially inaugurated by His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

The Premier cuts the opening ribbon

Shaikh Hesham

Mubarak & Talal

Juhaini, Seema & Khalid

HE Mohammed Ali Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador, HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador & HE Kiyoshi Asako, Japanese Ambassador

Salwa & Fareeda

Maha, Nujood & Maryam

16 June 2015

Hisham & Arun

Jurgen, Ebrahim & George

Alan & Mohammed

Marwa

Bayden, Ronnie & Bytem

John & Geraldine

Peter & Andrew

Summaya & Tayyaba

Barbara & Jason

HE Dr Ahmed Rasheed, Iraqi Ambassador & HE Taha Qadir, Palestinian Ambassador

Hazzar & Zainab

Aziz & Selime

Zain & Rafa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Tycoon Chronograph

It can get bloody elegant out there Face the New +973 1753 0329

info@thewatch.boutique

www.thewatch.boutique

thewatch.boutique

bystander

Abdulhussain & Bijan

Dutch King’s Day Reception The Dutch community celebrated the birthday of their King Willem Alexander of Orange-Nassau with an orange theme, at Café Amsterdam.

Dutch band ‘Bite’ were flown in for the occasion

Piethein

Iro

Robert & Anne

Coco, Ann & Michelle

Michaela & Jeraldine

Tolsma, Hovint, Wendy & Jaap

Sam & Mike

SAF Schools Prize Gala Dinner The Sovereign Art Fund Schools Prize Bahrain 2015 second charity auction gala dinner took place at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty’s Representative for Charity Works and Youth Affairs & Chariman of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Charity Organisation (RCO), was present on the occasion.

HH Shaikh Nasser, centre, and other VIPs at the cheque presentation to RCO

HH Shaikh Nasser

Hisham

Mohammed & Ahmed

18 June 2015

Dr Mustafa

Mohammed & Abdulrahim

Haya, Lulwa & Hessa

Mukarram & Shabbir

Razan & Marah

Vicky & Andrew

Eman, Kaltham & Hayat

Noora

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Russian 70th Anniversary HE Vagif Garaev, Russian Ambassador, held a reception to mark the 70th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War as his first official event in the role. He was accompanied by his wife Tatiana. The event was attended by ambassadors and dignitaries.

HE Vagif Garaev, centre, with dignitaries at the event

HE Ahmed Khattabi, Moroccan Ambassador & HE Shaikh Azzam Al Salah, Kuwaiti Ambassador

HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador & HE Mohammed Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador

Simon & Alex

HE Essam Saleh, Egyptian Ambassador, Ahmed Jawahari, HE Dr Abdulla Al Shaikh, Saudi Ambassador & Khalifa Rumaihi

Nabil, HE Vagif & Tatiana

Marina, Dr Salman & Irina

Igor

Alexey & Lena

German Embassy’s Service Award On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the BahrainiGerman Friendship Society, HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador, awarded the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany to the founder and first president of the society, Abdul Jalil Al Ansari.

HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, Economic Advisor to His Majesty and former Minister of Industry and Commerce, HE Abdulla Abdullatif Abdulla, Undersecretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, HE Khalid Almoayed, Chairman, BCCI, HE Khalid Al-Rumaihi, the newly appointed CEO of the Economic Development Board and Isa Al-Kooheji, chairman of the Economic Committee of the Council of Representatives, were among the guests of honour.

Dignitaries & representatives of government, royal court, Shura Council, parliament and the Bahraini & German business community at the event

Abdulla Juma

Worlfram, Dr Fakhro & Mr Salahuddin

20 June 2015

HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador awards Abdul Jalil Al Ansari

Aysha, Jalil & Sara Al Ansari

Sharifa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Dalia, Joanna & Alia

Mazen & Osama

Waleed

Dental Care Centre Opening A grand celebration was held to open Dr Rim Bogari’s Advance Dental Care Centre in Seef district under the patronage of Shaikha Thajba bint Salman Al Khalifa and Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, head of supreme council of health.

Dr Rim, left, and Shaikh Mohammed at the inauguration

Wael, Dr Rim & Maya

Hamza & Alia

Osama, Faisal & Salah

Dr Rim presents a momento to Shaikh Mohammed

Dr Georgetter & Dr Mona

Najia & Maya

Dr Rim & Faisal

Bahar & Yesim

Rihab & Fouzia

HE Chilman Arisman, Indonesian Ambassador & Edward

Sebahat & Bulent

Annual Expos The 7th annual Bahrain Food & Hospitality Expo and the 5th annual Health & Wellness Expo were held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

HE Zayed Alzayani, Industry & Commerce Minister, inaugurates the expo in the presence of HE Sadiq Al Shehabi, Health Minister, & other officials

Maryam, Hanan & Amira

22 June 2015

Gigie & Rustan

Ginan, Hussain & Hanan

Malak & Arwa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

JUNE

2015.

CLEAN UP DRIVE

HAPPENINGS

When? Ongoing – June 5 Event? Beach Clean Up Venue? Aldar Islands It’s a shame that the beaches and sea on the island are becoming more polluted by the day and someone’s got to take action and care for the environment. If you want to contribute to a clean, healthy future for the sea, then join the beach clean up at Aldar islands and help fight marine debris for a few hours any day until June 5, which is World Environment Day. The call goes out to divers, snorkellers and beach combers to help collect debris from the sea and beach before it gets washed out to sea.

When? Ongoing – June 5 Event? Beach Clean Up Venue? Aldar Islands E Call 17 704-600 or email info@aldarislands.com.

Anyone who wishes to lend a helping hand is welcome and for each rubbish bag you fill with debris, you get a free island entry ticket.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

To volunteer, register at the Aldar office. Bags will be provided.

Call 17 704-600 or email info@ aldarislands.com for more information.

THERAPIST IN A KIT

When? June 1 Event? Book Club Venue? Words BookstoreCafé, Budaiya Enjoy a literary evening as Words BookstoreCafé holds its book club meeting at the store at 7pm. This month’s pick is ‘An Unnecessary Woman’ by Rabih Alameddine. The book is about a 72-year-old Beirut native Aaliya Sobhi, living a solitary life, who has always felt herself unnecessary. Her adoring father died young and her remarried mother focused her attention on Aaliya’s half brothers, leaving her to describe herself as “my family’s appendix, its unnecessary appendage,” an attitude reinforced by her Lebanese culture. Divorced at 20 after a negligible marriage, she lived alone and began her life’s work of translating the novels she most loved into Arabic from other translations, then simply storing them, unread, in her apartment. Sustained by her “blind lust for the written word” and surrounded by piles of books, she anticipates www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? Ongoing-June10 Event? Exhibition - Encounters Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art A solo photography exhibition

by Syrian-American photographer Sueraya Shaheen.

E Visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net.

When? Ongoing-June 20 Event? Little Warrior Venue? Play, Seef Mall Enrol your children for a ‘Self Confidence Course for Kids’ (ages 7+) with coach and cognitive behavioural therapist, Kelly Armatage from 3.30pm to 5pm.

E Call 17 564-900 or email info@playbahrain.com.

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

E Visit www.culture.gov.bh

beginning a new translation project each year until disaster topples her life.

There is richness in Aaliya’s first-person narration, which veers from moments in her life to literature to the wars that have wracked her beloved native city during her lifetime.

To sign up, email info@ wordsbookstorecafe.com with your name and mobile number.

Call 17 690-790 for more information.

When? June 3 Event? Seminar Venue? Words BookstoreCafé, Budaiya Learn how to solve problems effectively all by yourself with ‘Therapist in a KIT’. Developed by Kelly Armatage, A.S.K. – A Serenity Kit is a three-step subconscious re-wiring technique that creates major change. This technique combines universal law, emotional freedom and the knowledge of learned behaviours and subconscious pay-offs to revolutionise people’s experiential realities. Kelly will be giving a free talk at 7pm on “The Psychology of Habits” and how to use A.S.K. so you can help yourself solve any problems and achieve any goal.

She will also be doing KIT signings at the store.

Check out the videos on www.aserenitykit.com.

Call 17 690-790 for more information.

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

E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

When? June 1 Event? University Fair 2015 Venue? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Admission is still open for British Universities. Grab the opportunity to meet the British university representatives for one-on-one sessions regarding the admission process. 10am.

E Call 17 255-909 or 38 897-235.

June 2015 23

happenings

FLY HIGH When? June 4-6 Event? Kitesurfing Venue? Amwaj Islands Get ready for an adrenaline-filled weekend as a regional amateur kitesurfing competition, Red Bull Kite The Waj, returns to the island for its second year. Kitesurfers from the region will descend on Amwaj Islands from June 4 to June 6 to show off their skills. International Red Bull athlete and renowned free-style kitesurfer Ruben Lenten, who’s made a name for himself with his megaloop signature move, will be overseeing and judging the event.

Kite The Waj will feature 16 teams of two riders each, who will be competing head-to- head until the top two reach the grand final. They will have to use body and mind to impress the judging panel in each of the four rounds, which consist of, round one: Air (riders will be judged on air time); round 2: Grab (riders will be judged on grab tricks); round 3: Spin (riders will be judged on rotations) and round 4: Win (a freestyle round in which riders will have to impress the judges

THEATRE FUN When? June 3-6 Event? Play Venue? The British Club

When? June 1 Event? Book Club Venue? Words BookstoreCafé, Budaiya E Call 17 690-790.

When? June 2 Event? Bahrain Garden Club Programme Venue? Garden Club House, Juffair Join the Bahrain Garden Club Programme – ‘Tea from the world’ at 4pm.

E Call 17 727-625 or visit www.bahraingardenclub.com.

with their best tricks).

The format is four rounds, eight heats each, with every heat being 12 minutes long. Each team will choose the best rider for the round he’s most suited to and each rider will have to complete two rounds. Around 40 participants from 10 countries are expected to take part.

Visit www.redbullkitethewaj.com for more information on registration, the panel and the format.

This is one for theatre lovers! Get ready for an entertaining evening as the Manama Theatre Club (the drama section of the British Club) stages the multi-award-winning play Bouncers by John Godber. The production follows Lucky Eric, Judd, Les and Ralph as they tell the tale of one night in a Yorkshire disco in the 1980s. All the gang are out on the town, the boys, the girls, the cheesy DJ, the late night kebab man and the taxi home, all under the watchful eyes of the bouncers.

Tickets for the show on June 3 will include dinner and cost BD12 for members and BD14 for non-members. Tickets on June 4 and June 5 will be for the show only at a price of BD6 for members and BD8 for non-members.

Tickets are on sale at the club’s reception.

Call 17 728-245 for more information.

TURKISH FESTIVAL COMES TO TOWN When? June 3-13 Event? Turkish Festival Venue? Ramli Mall

24 June 2015

A celebration of all things Turkish takes place this month, giving Bahrain a taste of the country’s many delights.

Entrepreneurial Mehmet Tuzcu, the man behind Panco and Ozdilek, aims to showcase a selection of Turkey’s most popular exports including food, clothes, carpets, handicrafts and music during a 10-day festival at Ramli Mall.

“I want to showcase the best of Turkey during this festival and introduce Bahrain to our rich culture. Everything at the festival will be from Turkey, right down to the smallest detail,” Mehmet says.

The event is being held in collaboration with the Turkish Embassy from June 3 to 13 and will feature one of Turkey’s best-

known musical acts, Ruhnevaz, as well as traditional dance performances.

Turkish Ambassador, HE Hatun Demirer, will attend the opening and is keen to promote Turkish companies doing business in the Kingdom.

Mehmet runs a number of outlets at Ramli Mall and says the festival is an ideal way to create awareness of Turkish brands and let people know there is more to Turkey than just coffee and sweets.

“We have a rich culture and I want to share it with the people of Bahrain,” he says. “This is a great opportunity for people to discover just how much Turkey has to offer.”

Call 17 640-262 for more information.

When? June 2-6 Event? Al Hawaj Clearance Sale 2015 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Don’t miss the mega sale on perfumes, cosmetics, handbags and electronic items.

E Call 16 166-666.

When? June 3 Event? Free Seminar - “The Psychology of Habits” by Kelly Armatage Venue? Words BookstoreCafé, Budaiya E Call 17 690-790.

When? June 3-6 Event? Play - “Bouncers” Venue? The British Club E Call 17 728-245.

When? June 3-13 Event? Turkish Festival Venue? Ramli Mall E Call 17 640-262.

When? June 4 Event? Cambridge Education Group Visit Venue? Education Links Office, ZinjAdmission is still open for a university foundation programme leading to prestigious universities in the UK. Meet the experts.

10am-7pm.

E Call 17 255-909 or 38 897-235.

When? June 4-6 Event? Kitesurfing - Red Bull Kite The Waj Venue? Amwaj Islands E Visit www. redbullkitethewaj.com.

When? June 4, 11, 18, 25 Event? Movie Night Venue? Royal Golf Club Watch old family classics and all the latest releases, every Thursday at 6pm, at the club’s fantastic garden for free.

E Call 17 750-777. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

THE NAME IS BONE....JAMES BONE When? June 5 Event? BSPCA Fashion Show Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club

When? June 5 Event? BSPCA Fashion Show Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club E Call 17 695-809 or visit the BSPCA Facebook page.

Show how much you appreciate your four-pawed friends and help raise funds for their welfare. The Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) is inviting everyone to a fashion show to help raise money for the Animal Welfare Centre (AWC) which houses abandoned and abused animals.

The event will be held at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club on June 5 at 7pm and promises to be a fun evening with entertainment and a raffle.

The tickets are priced at BD15 per person including dinner and refreshments.

Entry is by ticket only, available from the Bahrain Rugby Football Club, the British Club and the Thrift Shop.

All proceeds go towards funding the AWC. Call the Bahrain Rugby Football Club on 17 695-809 or visit the BSPCA Facebook page for more information.

HOLISTIC LEARNING When? June 6 Event? Ayurveda Workshop Venue? Yogini Yoga, Janabiya

If you’ve always been curious about the holistic side of things but didn’t know where to start, then this workshop will be right up your street. Join Maria Kimsey as she gently introduces you to the subject with an ‘Intro Into Ayurveda’ workshop, hosted by Yogini Yoga studio on June 6, from 11am to 1pm.

Learn about the secrets of medicinal herbs and spices, doshas (biological energies found throughout the human body and mind) and dosha balancing as well as discovering your own dosha. Brew herbal teas, infuse oils and learn about classic Ayurvedic recipes to take home with you.

This two-hour workshop is priced at BD20.

To secure your placement email yoniyoniyoga@gmail.com or register directly at Yogini Yoga studio. For directions visit www. yoginiyogabahrain.com 26 June 2015

When? June 6 Event? Ayurveda Workshop Venue? Yogini Yoga, Janabiya E Email yoniyoniyoga@gmail. com to register and visit www.yoginiyogabahrain.com for directions.

When? June 6 Event? Cooking Demo Venue? Words BookstoreCafé, Budaiya E Call 17 690-790.

CHARITABLE COOKING When? June 6 Event? Cooking Demo Venue? Words BookstoreCafé, Budaiya

Watch delectable dishes being cooked and help the poor in need as Words BookstoreCafé holds a Ramadan cooking demonstration with Narise Qamber on June 6 at 11.30am.

Narise, owner of the popular Saffron by Jena Café and Jena Bakery, will be at the store to demonstrate a few of her delicious recipes, just in time for Ramadan. All proceeds from the event will go to the Ramadan Food Drive which is being conducted by the Palm Association. The charity provides food packages for needy families during the Holy Month.

The event costs BD5 and as seats are limited, you can visit the store and pay to sign up, registration will be on a first come first served basis.

Call 17 690-790 fro more information

When? June 7-10 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? The British School of Bahrain, Hamala E Call 17 610-920.

When? June 9 Event? Bahrain Garden Club Programme Venue? Garden Club House, Juffair Join the Bahrain Garden Club Programme – ‘Ground Cover’ at 4pm.

E Call 17 727-625 or visit www.ahraingardenclub.com.

When? June 7, 14, 21, 28 Event? FootGolf Venue? Royal Golf Club Fun for the whole family, this unconventional game combines both football and golf with players kicking a football around the golf course with the aim of getting it into giant-sized cups in as few kicks as possible. Every Sunday from 7pm to 9pm.

E Call 17 750-777.

When? June 8 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Coral Bay Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 207-624.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

TRADE-IN

happenings

LIVE MUSIC When? June 10-12 Event? Music Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club Prepare yourself for a thoroughly enjoyable evening as Paul Adams returns to the island to entertain audiences with live music at Bahrain Rugby Football Club from June 10 to June 12.

The South African musician comes from Cape Town and has been involved in music all his adult life. He has travelled extensively as a professional entertainer throughout the Middle East and Asia for the last decade. A singer/ front man he also plays the guitar and piano. Paul currently performs as a

solo act playing popular tracks using live guitar and vocals. His repertoire spans all genres from rock to reggae to classic jazz, making him suited to any atmosphere a venue requires. His performance is energetic and he gets the audience involved with effortless ease as he exudes a genuine love for his art and a joy for playing which transfers to the spectators.

The show starts at 9pm on June 10 and 11 and at 8.30pm on June 12.

Entry is free for members and costs BD2 for members’ guests, BD1 for

When? June 9 Event? Study in the UK Venue? Education Links Office, Zinj Mark Ovens, senior international officer, will be visiting Bahrain to conduct spot admission interviews.

Receive further information on studying and living in Portsmouth.

E Call 17 255-909 or 38 897-235.

When? June 10-12 Event? Live Music - Paul Adams Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club E Call 17 695-809.

reciprocal members and BD5 for non-members.

Call 17 695-809 for more information.

CHILDREN’S ART EXHIBIT When? June 7-10 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? The British School of Bahrain, Hamala Students of various age groups from the British School of Bahrain (BSB) will be participating in Art Exhibition 2015, which will be held at the school premises in Hamala. A total of 28 teens will be participating in the exhibition - 20 from the GCSE group, two from AS level and six from A2 level. This is the end-of-year exhibition for GCSE and A level students, a part of the moderation process and a celebration of their achievements. It consists of both course work and the examination pieces for all three year groups, with titles ‘Apart or Together’ (GCSE),

RAMADAN DELIGHTS When? June 11-13 Event? Sufrat Ramadan Exhibition 2015 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre (BIECC)

‘Relationships’ (AS Level) and ‘Flaws and Imperfections’ (A2 Level).

The exhibition will be open to the public from June 7 to June 10, from 3pm to 5pm.

Call 17 610-920 for more information.

With Ramadan just round the corner, everyone is preparing to stock up with supplies for the Holy Month. With this in mind, Erteqa House for Exhibition & Consultancy is organising the first edition of its Ramadan food and products exhibition – “Sufrat Ramadan”, which will be held at the BIECC over three days from June 11 to June 13.

The exhibition presents a platform to display and provide a whole range of Ramadan needs from ready-made foods and beverage products as well as fresh, frozen, dried and processed foods, energy drinks and canned foods in addition to food and hospitality equipment and services.

Sufrat Ramadan aims to play a dynamic role in the continued growth of investment in the food and hospitality sector and many national companies and trade institutions are participating to showcase their goods directly to investors, retailers, wholesalers and the public through direct sales at the event.

“The exhibition aims to promote local products, stimulate the Bahraini food companies and open up more prospects for Bahraini companies to provide their goods and products to thousands of members of the public under one roof,” says Erteqa executive director Hussein Darwish.

Call 17 825-600 or 39 423-421 for more information.

28 June 2015

When? June 11 Event? Dinner/Dance Venue? The Dilmun Club Anna Thompson-Hall and The Reunion Band will be performing at a dinner/dance at 7pm in aid of Tony the Dogfather’s Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre.

E Call 17 690-926 or 17 692-986.

When? June 11-13 Event? Sufrat Ramadan Exhibition 2015 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Call 17 825-600 or 39 423-421.

When? June 13 Event? Sale Venue? The Dilmun Club There will be a boutique sale in aid of Tony the Dogfather from 11am to 3pm. Entry costs 500fils.

E Call 17 690-926 or 17 692-986.

When? June 15 Event? Creative Writers’ Workshop Venue? Coral Bay Hone your writing skills with Bahrain Writer’s Circle’s creative writers’ workshop at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 207-624. www.bahrainthismonth.com

PROTECT AGAINST HEAT STRESS PREVENT HEAT EXHAUSTION DURING OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

KEEP WORKERS SAFE FROM HEAT STRESS

PROVIDE COOLING RELIEF TO YOUR PRECIOUS EQUINE

PROTECT YOUR BELOVED K9s FROM EXTREME HEAT

TechNiche has distributors throughout Europe and the Middle East.

Fire & Safety Division P.O. Box: 584, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. Tel.: +973 17727600 e 230, Mob.: +973 38446666, Fax: +973 17728274.

Email: michael@intercol.com Website: www.intercol.com

happenings

CRACKING COMEDY Cool down this summer with a chilled evening of funnies as the Chuckle Club wraps up its current standup tour of the Middle East.

When? June 10-12 Event? Stand-up Comedy Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club, The British Club, InterContinental Regency Bahrain Ed Gamble

Damian Clark

With Ramadan round the corner and summer at its peak, Chuckle Club is also taking a little break from the heat. So don’t miss out on its last summer edition as this superb comedy trio round off their Middle East tour in Bahrain.

The international comedians - Australian Damian Clark, British Ed Gamble and EgyptianAmerican Eman Morgan will be performing at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club on June 10, The British Club on June 11 and the InterContinental Regency Bahrain on June 12.

Damian Clark kicked off his comedy career by winning the Perth Comedy Fringe Award in 2000. His first solo show The Bandit received the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Moosehead Award, which led him to tour all over Australia in the 30 June 2015

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Road Show. After various acclaimed TV performances on comedy talk shows, Damian moved to Ireland and within weeks he was hailed ‘The No.1 event to see’ and ‘Cream of the crop’ (InDublin Magazine). Soon after arriving he became a regular feature in RTE’s (Ireland’s national television and radio broadcaster) IFTA Award-winning Republic Of Telly and a comedy panellist in three series of TV3’s The Apprentice: You’re Fired! Now based in London, Damian’s rambunctious stand-up can be seen in clubs and festivals all over the UK, Ireland, Europe and beyond. He was hand picked to support Jack Dee and Kevin Bridges on national tours and is a much sought-after

headliner and MC. With his self-effacing charm and lovable onstage persona, Ed Gamble can win over any crowd, a skill that has made him one of the most ‘in-demand’ acts on the circuit.

Having started his career writing, performing and co-directing for the Durham Revue, he has since toured extensively as Greg Davies’ tour support. Co-writer and host of the Chortlenominated podcast Peacock and Gamble; he has performed on Dave’s One Night Stand and Russell Howard’s Good News. Ed has also written for Never Mind The Buzzcocks, Mock The Week and Ask Rhod Gilbert.

Eman Morgan, an Egyptian American comedian, is fast becoming

one of the hottest up-andcoming young comedians around. Born and raised in Los Angeles, he grew up around a diversified multicultural community, which helped him quickly gain the skill of performing in front of anyone at anytime. In addition to appearing in the feature film, Just like Us and Showtime special, Bridging the Gap, he regularly performs for comedy clubs across the US and internationally.

The shows start at 8.30pm at all venues.

Tickets cost BD15 and can be purchased online at amiando.com/ chuckleclubjune2015.

Follow Chuckle Club’s social media for special discounts.

When? June 15-16 Event? Assertive Communication and Emotional Intelligence Workshops Venue? Words BookstoreCafé, Budaiya Business and life coach, psychotherapist and author, Grazia Geiger will be flying out from Rome to conduct workshops. Assertive Communication, 9am-11am and 7pm-9pm (June 15), Emotional Intelligence and Effective Relationships, 9am-11am (June 16), Assertive Communication for Teens, 6pm-8pm (June 16).

E Call 17 690-790.

When? June 16 Event? Bahrain Garden Club Programme Venue? Garden Club House, Juffair Join the Bahrain Garden Club Programme – ‘Fun Competition’ at 10pm .E Call 17 727-625 or visit www.bahraingardenclub.com.

When? June 17-18 Event? The Wizard of Oz Musical Venue? St Christopher’s School Junior Hall, Saar Campus E Call the Junior School on 17 605-200.

When? June 18 Event? Dreams Society’s Ramadan Ghabga Venue? Gulf Conventional Centre, Gulf Hotel E Call 38 383-739 or email Mariam.Turki@dreams.bh.

When? June 24 Event? Souq Ramadan - Charity Bazaar Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 36 633-122 or email info@dukkan3.com.

Call 36 666-350 for more information.

Eman Morgan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BD

550

HAVE IT ALL DURING RAMADAN OVEN + CHIMNEY + COOKER + MICROWAVE

T 17 555 066 F 17 555 021

Providing the satisfaction to your desires of vanities, home and kitchen accessories that ďŹ ts your space and lifestyle, by a commitment we take to grant you the perfect www.fh-bh.com sanctuary within your own home.

happenings

MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE When? June 18 Event? Ghabga Venue? Gulf Conventional Centre, Gulf Hotel

There’s no bigger joy than putting a smile on a child’s face, especially for a worthy cause.

Bring joy to one child every day this Holy Month with Dreams Society’s Ramadan Ghabgha on June 18.

Dreams is a charity organisation whose mission is to bring joy to severely sick children who are affected by terminal illness or by a debilitating disease (such as cancer) by making their treasured dreams come true. Many of these children may not make it to adulthood and often have very little to look forward to except endless hospital visits and painful treatments.

The society’s work has a profound effect on each child as it provides them with the pleasure of anticipation, the thrill and excitement of their dream actually coming true and a lasting joy of wonderful memories to share with their families.

The Ghabga will be held on the first day of Ramadan at the Gulf Conventional Centre, Gulf Hotel, at 8.30pm and aims to raise money to realise 30 dreams in 30 days, by making one child’s dream come true every day during the

Holy Month.

The event’s main focus is to raise funds through ticket sales and an auction, with unique items designed exclusively for the Dreams Society.

Tickets are priced at BD20, including a dinner buffet and a chance to enter a raffle.

The public can get involved by raising awareness, becoming a member of the Dreams Society and helping the charity to make the children’s dreams come true.

Each dream is posted on the Dreams Society’s Instagram page with the contact details of one of the dream team members. The public can then contact the members and tell them the particular dream they would like to participate in.

Call 38 383-739 or email Mariam.Turki@ dreams.bh.

FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD When? June 17-18 Event? Musical Venue? St Christopher’s School Junior Hall, Saar Campus An entertaining evening is in store for all as St Christopher’s School’s Year 5 and 6 students take you on a journey down the Yellow Brick Road with the junior school’s musical production of The Wizard of Oz. The play will be held at St Christopher’s School Junior Hall, Saar Campus at 6pm. The production is based on the renowned novel by the same name and tells the story of Dorothy and her companion Toto the dog, who live with her aunt and uncle on their farm in Kansas.

One day, a powerful tornado develops and Dorothy hits her head and falls unconscious.

She wakes to find the house spinning in the air, held aloft by the twister. The farm house crashes in Munchkinland in the magical world of Oz. Glinda, the Good Witch of the North and the Munchkins welcome her as a heroine because the house has landed on and killed the Wicked Witch of the East. Glinda tells Dorothy to follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City, where the Wizard of Oz might be able to help her get back home.

A magical journey follows, where Dorothy and Toto meet new friends along the way Scarecrow who wants a brain, the Tin-Man who desires a heart and the Cowardly Lion who is in need of courage. This family favourite tells the tale of a heart-warming journey to self-discovery, when Dorothy’s new friends

realise that they already had what they were looking for all along.

This promises to be one of the school’s best productions yet!

Call the Junior School on 17 605-200.

SOUQ RAMADAN When? June 24 Event? Charity Bazaar Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Shop and help a charitable cause at the same time with Souq Ramadan, which will be held at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art on June 24.

Souq Ramadan is a charity bazaar inspired by the Holy Month of Ramadan and organised by Azza International Enterprises, an events and retail company dedicated to creating a platform for regional designers and small businesses. For the past five years the company has been the driving force behind a number of pop-up shops and the entrepreneurship event “The Project” 32 June 2015

as well as establishing two multi-brand concept stores – La Boutique 92, located in La Fontaine and Dukkan 3, located in Al Riwaq Art Space.

The event will host a number of regional designers and small businesses who will be presenting their collections including home ware, clothing and jewellery. A percentage of the event bookings will be donated to “The Dreams Society”, a charity registered under the Ministry of Human Rights and Social Development in the Kingdom. The charity’s mission is to make sick children’s dreams come true.

The event will donate 20 per cent of the rental fees from the vendors and 50 per cent of the event tickets to the charity.

The bazaar timings are from 8pm to 1am and

the tickets are priced at BD10 and free for children under 12.

La Fontaine also has a beautifully decorated white tent, which will be open to the public throughout Ramadan. This roofed airconditioned tent will serve Ramadan specials during the Holy Month, with entry priced at BD6 net, including a fresh Ramadan juice, one dish and free tea from the tea station. The tent will remain open until October 15 for corporate events, small weddings and various other special occasions.

Call 36 633-122 or email info@dukkan3.com for Souq Ramadan bookings. La Fontaine on 17 230-123. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ramadan Kareem

afterdark happenings

TIME TO TRON

SAY HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Get ready for a spectacular season closer with LED-suit clad dancers at Mai-Tai

When? June 5 Event? JJ’s 16th Birthday Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant

The 1982 sci-fi blockbuster Tron may have had a somewhat bizarre plot (man transported into computer mainframe to fight evil, would-be world-conquering artificial intelligence) but the film left audiences across the globe glued to their cinema seats.

The draw was the distinctively memorable aesthetics and visual effects that inspired and paved the way for many of the CGI films we embrace and enjoy today. The visuals of this film were truly innovative and unlike anything else seen before.

So it is hardly surprising that, with such eye-catching graphics, a group of talented dancers have found a way to celebrate the movie as part of their performance, delivering a spectacular display connecting lights, music and movement to

A TASTE OF BRAZIL When? June 4 Event? Brazilian Party Venue? Overlook There will be an air of Samba when you indulge yourself at the Brazilian 34 June 2015

hypnotise spectators.

The Tron Dancers, with their special LED suits, will be putting on a stunning dance show at MaiTai on Saturday, June 13 for the summer closing party.

Providing the music will be Brit DJ Erin Campbell whose musical journey began with a guitar and kicked into overdrive on the magical White Isle, Ibiza, where she developed a love for deep house and mixing. After travelling through Europe and playing at Berlin behemoths Berghain/ Panorama Bar and Tresor, Erin returned to her native Hartlepool and started her own club night, called Krankhouse.

She has opened for the likes of house legends Todd Terry, Yousef, Eats Everything, Catz n Dogz, Terry Francis and many more and is now living in Bahrain travelling to

Doha weekly for a residency at the Marriot Beach Hotel. She’s also a resident at Xclusive Events in Bahrain and promises a night of varied house styles to keep the Tron Dancers moving and keep partygoers on the dance floor.

The Trader Vic’s team rarely needs an excuse to party, but as the weather begins to heat up for the summer and the beautiful outdoor pagoda of Mai-Tai Lounge bids farewell to yet another season, closing until the Autumn, what better reason could there be to get together for an evening of fun and indulgence... and an openbar served Trader Vic’s style, of course!

The fun gets underway from 9pm and tickets cost BD45 including unlimited drinks.

Call 17 586-555.

A TOUCH OF IRISH Party all night long, at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. Get ready for a carnival of colours and flavours.

Tickets BD20 members, BD25 non-members.

Call 17 007-770.

When? June 5 Event? B-Side Live Venue? Polo Gastro Pub Known for their appearances at the Irish Society’s traditional

music sessions, this talented trio play Celtic rhythms spiked with rock and pop favourites. Get set for an evening of good music and fun.

Call 17 725-000

Join the crew at JJ’s to celebrate the 16th anniversary of the island’s favourite Irish bar. Resident DJ Tripz warms up the after-brunch crowd from 6pm and then from 8pm the Paddyman takes centre-stage with his infectious live energy and mix of music and humour to keep you dancing and smiling all night long. Entry is BD5 on the door from 6pm.

Call 39 329-083.

HEAD TO HED KANDI

When? June 4 Event? Hed Kandi Venue? Meisei Rooftop UK-based dance music brand Hed Kandi makes a welcome return to the island for a night of great tunes and partying.

On the decks is DJ Carl Hanaghan who’ll be presenting a mix of deep, soulful, tech and vocal house to keep the party going into the early hours. Entry BD15 for men, ladies free.

Call 17 007-770. www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

AT CHEF’S TABLE

ALSO THIS MONTH:

ANKITA MAMGAIN Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia joins George F Middleton to discuss food, flavours and his culinary prowess at his latest venture, Rasoi By Vineet in the Gulf Hotel.

38 PULL YOUR OWN WEIGHT! 46 BUILDING ON COMMNITY

George F Middleton and Vineet Bhatia

H

is television show was called Twist of Taste but his story can more suitably be described as a ‘twist of fate’ as someone who had absolutely no inclination towards culinary arts became a two Michelin-starred chef.

“I never wanted to be a chef, I always wanted to be a pilot,” says Vineet. After a chain of events, he was steered away from the jet planes and found his way into the kitchen of the hotel where he was interning.

“I fell in love with food overnight and it’s a love affair that will hopefully last forever,” he says.

In fact he fell in love with it to such an extent that he became the first Indian restaurateurchef to have received two Michelin stars. An early-morning call from a journalist broke the news to him, to which his first response was, “It must be a prank!”

“What Michelin did was put us in a different www.bahrainthismonth.com

league altogether…it took me, and my food seriously,” he says. “I’ve always said that Indian food is amongst the best in the world but it has to be done right.”

Meanwhile, as the two chat, amuse bouche arrives, consisting of a dollop of satiny smooth thayir sadam and an upma cube. Vineet seems greatly inspired by Japanese cuisine, which he confesses is his favourite besides Indian.

“What I like is their ethos of buying the best ingredients and keeping the inherent flavour intact,” he says, while the pair move on to the starters — Malabari lamb with lamb kebab and sun-dried tomato chicken tikka and mint and coriander chicken.

Talking about what made him choose Gulf Hotel, he promptly replies: “We didn’t choose the Gulf Hotel, it chose us.” The deciding factor for him was the fact the hotel was not closing a restaurant to open one. “It made us think that

they must be doing something right. There is a demand and the hotel is delivering to it. It’s been around for over 40 years and is a legendary property, so when they asked us to open a restaurant here, it was a no brainer.”

The main course comprises of lobster served with lemon rice and grilled humour with couscous and lentil sauce. Vineet often says that he serves ‘India on a plate’.

“India is all about colours, history, culture and flavours all of which are really diverse, including its food. I try and cater to all senses, and create harmony out of that diversity. What you see on your plate is my little India.”

The decadent meal ends with the Chocolate Sampler, featuring Vineet’s signature chocolate samosa and gulabi gulab.

Watch the full-length interview on www. bahrainthismonth.com and Bahrain This Month’s YouTube channel.

June 2015 37

interview

Shehab Saeed

PULL YOUR OWN WEIGHT! CHARLIE HOLDING

S

Fitness fanatic Shehab Saeed is hoping to put the Kingdom under a global spotlight as he prepares for a fitness competition with a twist.

ocial media in the Kingdom is abuzz with excitement following the announcement of the first ever Calisthenics World Cup (CWC), which is coming to the island later this year. The event will see participants from across the globe descending on Bahrain to compete for the chance to win big money prizes.

Calisthenics is a form of exercise that consists of a variety of movements, often rhythmical, generally without using equipment or apparatus. They are intended to increase body strength, body fitness and flexibility through movements such as bending, jumping, swinging, twisting or kicking, using only one’s body weight for resistance.

“I started an organisation called Big Up Sports to pursue my passion for this sport and bring it to Bahrain in an organised way, and together with Gallure and the World Calisthenics Organisation (WCO), we decided to put on this event,” explains Shehab.

38 June 2015

Full Planche

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Human Flag

“WCO is known for doing individual competitions called Battle of the Bars 1-7 around the world but no one has ever done a team competition with representatives from each country and that’s what we decided to do together when we formed the CWC.” Shehab says the beauty of calisthenics is that it can be done by anyone, anywhere.

“You don’t need a gym or weights, all you need is your own bodyweight and you can workout from the comfort of your own home,” he explains. “Push ups and pull ups are very basic calisthenics movements.

“What you see from participants at these competitions is pretty extreme, it’s almost like gymnastics.”

The CWC will take place in November and Shehab is encouraging people to get to grips with the sport beforehand. He is also reaching out for sponsors and says this is an opportunity not to be missed.

“We’re looking for sponsors both local and international. The event will be streamed on social media and some of the competitors from overseas have half a million followers each,” Shehab says.”

Qualification for the event involves teams registering on line with a video of their skills — organisers and judges then shortlist teams per country. Fans can then go on the CWC website and vote for their favourite team.

The event is open to men and women aged 18 and above.

While the sport is already very popular around the world, it is rapidly gathering momentum in Bahrain, with athletes finding the flexibility of it attractive.

Here, Big Up Sports sponsored athlete Mohsin Falee shows us a few calisthenics moves.

For more info follow @calisthenicsworldcup. www.bahrainthismonth.com

V-Sit

Handstand

June 2015 39

diplomatictalk

BUILDING RELATIONS CHARLIE HOLDING Tunisian Ambassador, HE Mohammed bin Youssef, hopes that Bahrain’s involvement in a staggering USD3 billion project will bring the countries closer than ever before.

B

ahrain has a special place in the heart of Tunisian Ambassador, HE Mohammed bin Youssef. The Kingdom is his first posting as ambassador and he aims to make a lasting impression by affirming bi-lateral relations between the two countries.

When His Excellency arrived, it took two months before he was able to present his credentials to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. During that time, the ambassador made the most of the opportunity to explore the country and get to know its people better.

Ambassador bin Youssef says that on his last assignment, he was told about the warmth and hospitality of Bahrain and its people and was eager to experience it himself.

“Before I came here in 2013, I had a good idea about Bahrain as a country and people in the diplomatic community told me Bahrainis are very friendly. However, when I arrived and experienced it for myself, I was overwhelmed,” he says.

“It confirmed the good idea I had of Bahrain and the first thing I noticed was the people are so open and warm. It is very important to me that my family and I are in a country that is open and safe.”

Safety is a very reasonable request after he endured the Tunisian revolution in 2011. The experience was a source of angst for Ambassador bin Youssef, but he maintains he was not afraid.

“I wasn’t afraid, I believe in my country and the 40 June 2015

HE Mohammed bin Youssef

people. Still, we have issues to address, such as our economy, but we are making progress and going in the right direction,” he says.

The country held its first Parliamentary elections since the Arab Spring on October 26, 2014, and its Presidentials on November 23, 2014. Tunisia is now a constitutional republic with a president serving as head of state, prime minister as head of government, a unicameral parliament and a civil law court system.

Since then, Tunisia has been consolidating democracy and is firmly on track thanks to a political shuffle and an influx of foreign investment in the Tunis Financial Harbour.

Forming part of that investment is Gulf Finance House (GFH), the Bahrain-based financial group, which recently announced that three leading US universities have agreed to establish a new USD103 million American University at the USD3 billion Tunis Financial Harbour (TFH) project.

Once fully developed, TFH will feature residential and retail spaces, an 18 hole championship golf course, a beach community, souq, education facilities, hotels, financial

centre, marina and shopping malls which all together will create more than 16,000 jobs and accommodate 110,000 residents.

There are around 1,500 Tunisians in Bahrain and Ambassador bin Youssef believes that number has the potential to grow as trade between the countries prospers.

“We have some Tunisians who came to Bahrain for two year contract and ended up staying for 30 years,” he says. “Some have even become Bahraini. I don’t think they would stay such a long time if they didn’t love this country.

“Business and trade relations are not as expected but we’re trying and we can work on that, it’s the beginning of a new chapter in our relationship. We want to be closer, have more meetings, I want the relationship to develop and grow.”

Ambassador bin Youssef says he is extremely thankful for the support of His Majesty King Hamad, His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier. www.bahrainthismonth.com

RAMADAN KAREEM TIMINGS: Eid

From 14th July SALON SPA HEALTH CLUB

10 am - 10 pm 9 am - 10 pm 7 am - 11 pm

SALON SPA HEALTH CLUB

10 am - midnight 9 am - midnight 7 am - 11 pm

For More Information Call 17713999

SALON SPA HEALTH CLUB

10 am - 3 am 9 am - midnight 7 am - 11 pm

interview Michael Falcus

A COOL WAY TO BEAT THE HEAT CHARLIE HOLDING

I

As the searing summer sun returns to the Kingdom, one man is on a mission to ensure that workers are better protected from sun stress.

nternational Agencies Fire and Safety Equipment manager Michael Falcus says that his range of temperature regulating apparel can play a role in preventing heat stress and increase productivity.

Sun stress, also known as heat stress, occurs when the body cannot cool itself enough to maintain a healthy temperature.

Heat-related illnesses include heat rash, heat cramps, dizziness or fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and a worsening of existing medical conditions.

“Over the next few months, the temperature is going to climb and people who have to work outside are at high risk of heat stress,” Michael says.

“We are offering a range of cooling vests, hats, wristbands and neckbands that are designed to keep people cool in extreme 42 June 2015

conditions such as workers in the oil and gas field. Most workers wear heavy overalls, which doesn’t help matters, they are at greater risk of sun stress and reduced performance.

“You can’t even imagine what it’s like for guys working outside in July and August — it’s not easy at all. I’m not saying these products will stop sun stress, but they will definitely help to prevent it.”

The products, from TechNiche Middle East, a UK-owned company based in Dubai, work by being soaked in water for three minutes then drained before wearing. There is a polymer embedded in the fabric, which absorbs and stores the water. When you wear the product and move around, the evaporation creates the cooling effect.

“It provides the user with up to four hours of cooling, depending on airflow, which helps the

cooling effect,” Michael explains. “There has been a good response from a lot of the ministries and we’ve been pushing hard with big contractors in the Kingdom with the hope of reaching end users.”

The products are priced competitively, with a range of affordable products from BD3 – BD25.

The cost of a cooling vest is BD13.5.

Michael’s goal is to ensure that people who work outside — including construction workers and street cleaners — are able to work safely.

Once the range has made its impact in the market, there are plans in the pipeline to bring in other personal protective equipment.

The company also provides a range of cooling products for sportsmen, horses, dogs and even children.

Call 17 727-600, 38 446-666, or email michael@intercol.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ENJOY!! BAHRAIN’S BIGGEST WATERPARK

LPODwaterpark

/LPODwaterpark

@LPODTweet

interview

A HELPING HAND CHARLIE HOLDING The Kingdom’s Rotary clubs are on a mission to ensure needy families have essential foodstuffs during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

T

he Rotary Club of Manama (RCM), Rotary Club of Salmaniya (RCS) and the Rotaract Club of Bahrain are gearing up for one of the most difficult times of the year for less fortunate people.

RCS past president — now director of community service — Osama Mohammed Muein revealed that in aggregate, the three clubs are distributing 1,500 Ramadan boxes packed with rice, pasta, cooking oil, powdered custard and syrups but no perishable items.

“The idea is to help as many people as possible,” he explains. “Our various fundraising events throughout the year enable us to help others and during the Holy Month, when some people find it especially difficult.”

44 June 2015

The sentiment is echoed by his counterpart at RCM, Khalid Mukhtar. “We did 1,200 boxes alone last year and this year we want to focus on helping specific societies — obviously if there is more demand, we’re happy to oblige and increase the numbers,” he says.

Although each division of the Rotary Club works individually, they are all on-hand to offer guidance and support to the Rotaract Club of Bahrain, the youth arm for future Rotarians.

Current president Mohammed Al Haddad says it is Rotaract’s role to keep everyone on the same page.

“At the end of the day we are all working for the same goal, helping people in need. A bit of friendly competition between the clubs helps inspire each

of them to raise more money, which all goes to charitable causes,” he says.

The RCM has recently come to an arrangement with international courier DHL, which sees the company providing its logistic expertise to help distribute the Ramadan boxes. The company also has an initiative to donate boxes as well.

RCM’s president, Robert Ainey, says that besides societies, the boxes will be donated to less fortunate people known to club members too.

“We want to make sure we give these boxes to the right people, the people who need it most,” he says. “We’ve raised BD5,000 for the boxes from our club members and will throw in another BD2,000 from the treasury to ensure we reach as many people as possible.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

Wishes you and your loved ones a blessed Ramadan

Enjoy the difference this Ramadan with Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area.

With our promotional Ramadan packages and activities One bedroom deluxe suite at 59 BHD NET inclusive of one Iftar A daily Iftar buffet and Ghabga set menu available For any inquiries please contact us

Email: reservations.bahrain@frasershospitality.com

Tel:(+973) 16 16 18 88

interview

BUILDING ON COMMUNITY CHARLIE HOLDING One of the driving forces behind the Amwaj Islands project talks to BTM about its modest beginnings and future plans for the development.

S

aud Kanoo, chairman of Ossis Property Developers — the company behind the project — is a man with vision and ambition in equal measure and it comes as no surprise that he believes the best is yet to come for Amwaj Islands.

Over the years, Amwaj Islands has cemented a reputation for quality and is widely recognised as a sound investment for homeowners. However, when the project was in its infancy, the developers had problems with banks, financers and supporters.

“Don’t forget, we are in the private sector, we’re not a government entity that has easy access to facilities,” explains Saud. “We had limited resources for a project this size but we had a strong vision and, over time, banks saw the potential. Then we started to have plenty of equity as the risk in the development decreased.”

The goal was to provide a place to live for ‘an average person with a decent job’ and to create an island community that is connected, refreshing and vibrant. A place by the sea in which to live, work, do business, dine and enjoy sports.

The price of property in Amwaj is affordable to the average professional or newly-weds starting their lives. Saud says there are around 12,000 people currently living there, but he hopes to see that number double in the coming years.

“We have more than 40 nationalities living in the community, which makes it cosmopolitan,” he explains. “It is a great example of people living harmoniously that continues to grow.”

It’s not just Bahrainis and expat residents that make up the population of the development; there is a growing number of visitors from across the causeway. Saud says: “The Saudi market is looking at it as another area they can go to for entertainment. We’ve seen a lot of movement of people commuting from Saudi to Amwaj, which before we only saw in Saar.

“Now, we have a lot of Saudi residents, not necessarily Saudi nationals, who are living in Amwaj because it is an ideal place to commute to and from, thanks to the highways.”

46 June 2015

Saud Kanoo

Amwaj boasts a number of services and facilities, including: supermarkets; pharmacies; hotels; restaurants; cafés; retail outlets; banks; schools, a marina and a communications company. Saud reveals there are now plans for a community shopping centre and a cinema.

“All of the developments and amenities are there to help build a community, which is capable of being self sustained,” he says.

“Once you arrive at Amwaj, you should have access to everything you need and this new shopping centre is a step closer to that goal.”

The centre — which is currently under

construction — is slated to be 20,000sq/m and work is due to be completed within 14 months.

“We’re not trying to compete with the other big malls in Bahrain, it’s for the people in the area,” says Saud. “We feel with the cinema and the shops that are coming in to Amwaj we will be able to achieve more commercial success. In the past, we have concentrated on developing the infrastructure and the superstructure, now we are developing a lifestyle.”

Amwaj Islands’ six man-made islands are each unique, offering an enviable lifestyle for residents, with a choice of outstanding homes

www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

BUILDING ON COMMUNITY CHARLIE HOLDING One of the driving forces behind the Amwaj Islands project talks to BTM about its modest beginnings and future plans for the development.

S

aud Kanoo, chairman of Ossis Property Developers — the company behind the project — is a man with vision and ambition in equal measure and it comes as no surprise that he believes the best is yet to come for Amwaj Islands.

Over the years, Amwaj Islands has cemented a reputation for quality and is widely recognised as a sound investment for homeowners. However, when the project was in its infancy, the developers had problems with banks, financers and supporters.

“Don’t forget, we are in the private sector, we’re not a government entity that has easy access to facilities,” explains Saud. “We had limited resources for a project this size but we had a strong vision and, over time, banks saw the potential. Then we started to have plenty of equity as the risk in the development decreased.”

The goal was to provide a place to live for ‘an average person with a decent job’ and to create an island community that is connected, refreshing and vibrant. A place by the sea in which to live, work, do business, dine and enjoy sports.

The price of property in Amwaj is affordable to the average professional or newly-weds starting their lives. Saud says there are around 12,000 people currently living there, but he hopes to see that number double in the coming years.

“We have more than 40 nationalities living in the community, which makes it cosmopolitan,” he explains. “It is a great example of people living harmoniously that continues to grow.”

It’s not just Bahrainis and expat residents that make up the population of the development; there is a growing number of visitors from across the causeway. Saud says: “The Saudi market is looking at it as another area they can go to for entertainment. We’ve seen a lot of movement of people commuting from Saudi to Amwaj, which before we only saw in Saar.

“Now, we have a lot of Saudi residents, not necessarily Saudi nationals, who are living in Amwaj because it is an ideal place to commute to and from, thanks to the highways.”

46 June 2015

Saud Kanoo

Amwaj boasts a number of services and facilities, including: supermarkets; pharmacies; hotels; restaurants; cafés; retail outlets; banks; schools, a marina and a communications company. Saud reveals there are now plans for a community shopping centre and a cinema.

“All of the developments and amenities are there to help build a community, which is capable of being self sustained,” he says.

“Once you arrive at Amwaj, you should have access to everything you need and this new shopping centre is a step closer to that goal.”

The centre — which is currently under

construction — is slated to be 20,000sq/m and work is due to be completed within 14 months.

“We’re not trying to compete with the other big malls in Bahrain, it’s for the people in the area,” says Saud. “We feel with the cinema and the shops that are coming in to Amwaj we will be able to achieve more commercial success. In the past, we have concentrated on developing the infrastructure and the superstructure, now we are developing a lifestyle.”

Amwaj Islands’ six man-made islands are each unique, offering an enviable lifestyle for residents, with a choice of outstanding homes

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jaguar XF

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

JAGUAR LAND ROVER

BACKSEAT CHAT Bahrain’s calendar of cultural events is always abuzz with activity, even during the slower summer months. BTM catches up with Dr Elie Flouty, a man who helps make it happen.

George Middleton greets Dr Elie Flouty in Amwaj Islands as the shooting for the interview gets under-way. When asked to give audio levels, the guest breaks into a song, setting the tone for what is to follow; a light-hearted, frank and honest conversation about his life, passions and career. The two share the backseat of a shiny new black Jaguar XF, while enjoying a smooth ride across the islands.

In his current role as the media advisor of the Bahrain Authority of Culture and Antiquities, Dr Elie has played an instrumental role in putting the spotlight on our little island both far and wide.

The media has played a pivotal role throughout Dr Elie’s life. “I think this is something we are born with; a sense of curiosity. I remember in 48 June 2015

Dr Elie Flouty with George F Middleton

my childhood, I launched a radio programme with my friends; we actually broadcasted on-air, just for the neighbourhood buildings, without any fear,” he says.

“It was truly beautiful and I think since then I’ve been in love with media and its various channels.”

This love resurfaced years later when, after studying medicine for two years, Dr Elie decided to follow his true passion and make a career out of what was just a hobby at that time.

A keen academic, he has earned several degrees in the field, including a doctorate in media from Institut Francais de Presse in Paris. He was a founding director and later Dean of the College of Media at Antonine University in Lebanon.

His now well-established role in Bahrain, he recalls, almost happened by chance.

“I was holidaying in Paris and attended a small conference at Institut du Monde Arabe where I met with Mrs Hiam Hamoui who suggested my name as a consultant for Her Excellency Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, essentially for the radio,” he says.

“I am proud to be part of Shaikha Mai’s team and continues his work with love, peace and beauty.”

With past experience in the field at Monte Carlo Radio in Paris, Dr Elie decided to try out Bahrain. “I immediately fell in love with the place and decided to stay.”

Looking back at some of the most poignant moments of his career in Bahrain so far, especially at the Information Affairs Authority he feels especially proud to have launched daily news in Hindi, Tagalog and Urdu languages.

“I had another beautiful experience at IAA, when the Minster of Social Affairs, Dr Fatima Albalooshi, sent a request to include two young, visually challenged persons in our staff.

Traditionally you would expect to see them answering phone calls, but I saw their potential and developed a special radio programme for them,” Dr Elie explains.

Dr Elie is excited about the changing nature of communications channels with the advent of social media. “It’s the normal evolution. We have more and more journalists now and everyone has the right to express their opinion.

It’s a true democracy.”

Watch the full-length interview with Dr Elie Flouty on www.bahrainthismonth.com and Bahrain This Month’s YouTube channel. www.bahrainthismonth.com

VolkswagenBahrain

The Tiguan. /starting from B D. 9,595

The Passat. starting from

BD. 7,195/-

Seasonal deals worth celebrating.

gen CC. The Volkswa 5/m starting fro B D. 10,39

www.volkswagen-bahrain.com

.

The Touareg m fro g BD. 16,495/startin

te of 1.99%* • Interest ra e Service 00 Kms. Fre • 3 Years/45,0 nce ta is side Ass Mileage • 3 Years Road ty Unlimited n ra ar W ed d en tion xt ra E o • 5 Years Rust Perf nty Against ra ar W s ar • 12 Ye

This season, Volkswagen is offering unforgettable deals on a variety of vehicles. And with innovative German engineering now even more affordable, those are savings worth celebrating. *Terms and conditions apply.

Sitra – Tel: 17459977 Email: volkswagen@behbehani.com.bh

bystander

SKAL Dinner SKAL held a gala dinner for its members at the Ramada Hotel.

Members of SKAL

Khalil, Khalil, Fuad, Sadiq & Hisham

Greg, Bob & Abdulla

50 June 2015

Siham & Hameed

Abdulla, Matthias & Rahim

Matthias & Niman

Mohamed & Yousif

Mohamed & Khalil

Ron & Patri

www.bahrainthismonth.com

One of Bahrain’s leading electrical & lighting solution providers.

State of the art showroom featuring a huge selection of innovative light fittings and electrical accessories.

A front-runner in the LED revolution with a ready stock of LED fixtures & fittings - helping you to drive down the cost of lighting your home.

Lighting powerhouses such as Trilux, OMS, Illuma, Pulsar, SG & Ventilux all under one roof, along with unique lighting fixtures – each one carefully selected to appeal to your senses and inspire creativity.

You can also find the latest technology – such as our remote lighting lifters – which bring convenience to your home/workplace.

bystander

Avirat, Elias, George & Abdul

BMMI Hops Festival Bahrain Maritime & Mercantile International Shops’ hosted its annual Hops Festival at CafÊ Amsterdam in Adliya.

Live performers entertained the crowd

Murthy, Seejo, Santosh & Karthik

Ewa, Selena, Monika & Ania

Ali & Nina

Sujay & Pranesh

Claire & Chris

James

Bahrain Japan Reception HE Kiyoshi Asaoko, Japanese Ambassador, held a reception at his residence for the Bahrain Japan Business Friendship Society.

Ambassador Asaoko with guests at the event

Ambassador Asaoko, Dr Riyad & Chika Wa

52 June 2015

Yamamoto & Minagi

Mubarak, Nabeel & Majid

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

School Inauguration Al Shorooq Preschool launched its new premises in Riffa in the presence of Abdul Karim Ahmed Al Rashid, Assistant Undersecretary, Industrial Development, UNIDO, Akbar Jaffari, CEO, JAFCON, members of Bahrain Business Women’s Society, the school’s officials and governmental and educational stakeholders.

Abdulkarim Al Rashid cuts the opening ribbon

Abdulkarim learns about the Montessori materials

Management and staff at the inauguration

Faisal

Nayef

German Business Reception

Guests hear about the facility

The German Business Roundtable Bahrain, Lufthansa & SMS group held a German Business Network reception under the patronage of HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador.

Keshav, Tareq, Raed, HE Sabine Taufmann & Jehad

Andrew

Gernot & George

54 June 2015

Christa & Jan

Holger & Bob

Peter & Elizabeth

Abdul Wahab, Sadiq & Ameen

Rocio & Philip

Saiqa, Stella & Surbita

Abdulla

Tik, Mandy & Janet

Terry & Didem

Stefan & Aline

www.bahrainthismonth.com

supermarkets&retailoutlets

Jawad — The island’s original brand since 1960, Jawad has supermarkets in Barbar and Nuwaidrat as well as a chain of 24 Hours Markets, Jawad Metro and Jawad Express stores across the Kingdom. Jawad Dome in Barbar is a local landmark and, as well as a range of festive deals, the venue has recently introduced regular cooking class demonstrations to showcase its range of products.

Retail Therapy Shopping on the island is never more fun than at Ramadan when many of the supermarkets and malls have special deals, promotions and prizes.

Bahrain is well-served on the retail front with a whole host of malls, supermarkets, independent retailers and souqs among which you can find just about anything your heart and wallet could desire. With the Holy Month upon us, we’ll all be looking to stock up for the daily Iftar feast and perhaps seeking Eid gifts and special offers too.

Alosra — Known for the quality of its products, Alosra has expanded its presence and now has stores in Amwaj Islands, Durrat Al Bahrain, Juffair, Riffa Palms and Saar. The company has recently launched a range of eco-friendly shopping bags and also has readymade Iftar delights in its ‘To Go’ range.

Megamart — Present in Lulu Centre, Muharraq and Juffair, this supermarket offers a wide variety of everyday items, including meats and fruit and veg, at strongly discounted prices. Megamart also has electronics and home goods and a range of Ramadan deals.

Lulu — One of the island’s most popular shopping destinations, Lulu has branches in Dana Mall, Riffa, A’ali and Hidd with festive promotions which are always much anticipated. The huge department-style store offers everything from hot food to take away to electronics and home wares.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Carrefour — This French behemoth in City Centre Bahrain has a good range of regional and international products and usually takes part in Ramadan charity initiatives as well as offering various special deals throughout the month.

Géant — Another French offering, the anchor store of the Bahrain Mall has everything from groceries to a wide range of home electronics, decorative items and tech gadgets such as phones and computers.

Bahrain Mall — Aside from the Géant supermarket, Bahrain Mall, which is known as the ‘Family Mall’ has a good range of outlets from fashion to jewellery, a major home retailer forms the second anchor and there is a huge food court.

Yateem Centre — The island’s original undercover shopping mall, the Yateem Centre has a mix of regular stores and quirky offerings which make for an interesting shopping experience. It has various programmes running throughout the Holy Month.

Oasis Malls, Muharraq and East Riffa — Department store Centrepoint anchors both malls offering shoppers a wide range of goods from shoes to sports goods and home wares. Both malls also offer a wide range of other outlets and cater to the little ones with Fun City play zones.

Marina Mall — A wide range of stores from Mothercare to Shoemart and a newly refurbished food court plus a large Fun City due to open shortly.

June 2015 55

bystander

Heather, Rick & Neil

Best of Britain Festival Lulu Hypermarket marked the Great British Week with a ‘Best of Britain’ festival, which was attended

by HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, at the Hidd outlet.

HE Iain Lindsay inaugurates the festival in the presence of Lulu Hypermarket management and staff

Kaleem & John

Cris & Iris

Gavin & Anna

Nimish & Jabran

Sathar & Eldhos

Araceli, Gabriela & Mathew

P. Mohanty

Hussain, Muneera & Ali

Abdulla, Carol & Reem

Children’s Musical Treat Award-winning West End musical, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, showcased at the cultural hall in Bahrain.

A scene from the play

Ghanem & Maraya Ali, Brody & Zunoon

Liam, Sara & Andrew

56 June 2015

Shweta, Isabelle, Yoshita & Tanmaya

Manar & Manman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Eco

Range

The UNIBAY from Pulsar was designed specifically for: Large scale industrial warehouses Sports halls Hangars Factories Cold stores Distribution centres Reduce electricity consumption by up to 85% 15,700+ lumens Multiple fixing options 31,000 lumens in dual head configuration 10 year warranty High quality (high CRI) light Non-distracting flicker-free light 6 beam angles

K MADE · ·U

Manufactured in the UK

CE 1970

·

·

SIN

Contact Genprise at +973 17311442 or e mail info@genpriseco.com for more details

PULSAR - LUXEOS RANGE Producing perfect colour mixing, across a wider gamut.

Pulsar’s custom specified 4 colour LED light engine.

Internally mixed colour using advanced optics to deliver exceptional light output.

Pulsar breaks the mould.

K MADE · ·U

CE 1970

·

·

SIN

RGBW, 80+ CRI IP66 + IK09 Flicker Free 10,000+ Lumens DMX512 / RDM Control

www.pulsarlight.com/newrelease/

supermarkets&retailoutlets

LULU/RAMLI MALL

The Community’s Favourite Shopping Mall Ramli Mall offers retail, dining and shopping experiences to suit every taste.

58 June 2015

A community mall serving local Arab and expat families, Ramli Mall is spread over 45,000sq/m and is home to a range of regional and international brands.

Located close to the Driver Training Centre in A’ali, the mall’s anchor store is Lulu Hypermarket and that makes the Ramli experience complete for shoppers.

There are major big-brand shopping experiences such as Sharaf DG, Mothercare, Daiso Japan, Twenty4, Red Tag and many more. Recently, the lineup has been joined by major Turkish fashion stores Panco and Ozdilek.

From June 3-13 Ramli Mall has a Turkish Festival lined up with a Turkish orchestra and traders from Turkey selling their wares such as sweets, silks, silver and copper items, accessories and famous Turkish ice cream.

Throughout the Holy Month the mall will be decorated with a special Ramadan theme and there will be Gurgaon and Eid events for the whole family.

Little shoppers can refresh themselves with fun at the Smart Fox amusement centre where there are many rides and exciting games.

The Ramli Mall Food Court serves up the world with a

wide range of cafés and dining outlets including McDonald’s, Hardees, Pizza Hut, KFC, Yum Yum Tree, Subway, Sukiyaki, Vanellis, Chicking, Baskin-Robins and it recently launched Bubble Tea Box and Chai Café.

The taste of Indian cuisine will be enhanced soon, when popular fast food café Mumbai Spices opens there.

Watch out for special shopping promotions such as country-focused festivals and the island-wide shopping festival in December, so it is definitely a venue worth visiting.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The special season of Ramadan calls for special deals.

This Ramadan, Lulu brings you exciting discounts and offers on all its products. Choose from a wide variety of high-quality food and grocery products. Also, get fabulous discounts on home appliances. It’s time to save more in this special season of Ramadan with deals galore.

supermarkets&retailoutlets

BAHRAIN MALL

Festive Fun Presenting the best of Bahraini culture under one roof, here’s a venue that makes festive shopping more exciting and rewarding.

60 June 2015

One of the oldest and most popular shopping destinations in the Kingdom, Bahrain Mall is ready to welcome Ramadan this year with fun-filled and exciting promotions for all. Embracing the true spirit of the island and its vibrant social fabric, the mall offers a number of attractions for you and your family throughout the Holy Month. You can look forward to a strong line-up of events, activities and entertainment that will enthral one and all.

“The Holy Month of Ramadan will feature many events where local artists and craftsmen will showcase their skills in basket-weaving, Arabic calligraphy and jewellery making. Adding to the festive atmosphere will be an oud player, infusing the air with traditional melodies” says Ilse Viljoen, marketing manager at Bahrain Mall.

The lively entertainment is not just lined up for the grown ups but also for children of all age groups as well as people from all sections of society thus promoting the warmth and affection that is a part of Bahraini culture.

Arabic tents will be set up in the mall wherein kids can partake in activities such as face painting and henna. There will also be a dedicated selfie photo booth for everyone to enjoy.

For every BD10 purchase made at any of the stores in the mall you will receive a raffle coupon and stand a chance to win BD10,000 worth of gift vouchers from Géant and Home Store.

The mall promises a great family shopping experience in the heart of Bahrain’s retail district.

With its ethnic fortress-like facade and traditional ambience, the venue beautifully captures the spirit of Ramadan and the rich culture of Bahrain.

“From a range of fashion labels to fragrances to home ware and electronics, the Bahrain Mall has a lot to offer and is the perfect destination to do your Ramadan and Eid shopping,” adds Ilse. In addition to this, the mall’s food court offers a splendid choice of local and international cuisine restaurants for a delicious Iftar meal with your family.

Call 17 558-101. www.bahrainthismonth.com

supermarkets&retailoutlets MEGAMART

An Affordable Iftar As the Holy Month approaches, beat the heat by stocking up on items for your Iftar feast in advance.

Making sure you have your Ramadan essentials has never been easier than with a trip to Megamart or Macro Mart, where you will find everything you need for a delicious home-cooked meal. This retailer takes great pride in its wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables and ovenfresh bakery items.

And you won’t need to break the bank thanks to the stores’ special summer and Ramadan promotions. One thing’s for sure, this retailer certainly has competitive prices.

General manager, RV Waghnani, explains: “It is essential to us to bring only the best products of supreme value to our customers.”

Both supermarkets are one-stop destinations boasting a wide variety of fresh meats and poultry offering prime cuts of beef, lamb and turkey. And you can satisfy a sweet tooth with traditional desserts from the bakery section such as plum cakes, chocolates, cookies, pastries and more.

Since Ramadan will be during one of the hottest months of the year, it is important to keep hydrated once you break your fast. Megamart and Macro Mart stock the best brands in juices, water and energy drinks.

Those keen to watch their weight may whip up some fresh juice from the assortment of exotic fruits on offer.

Mega Mart has branches at Salmaniya, Hamad town, Lulu Centre, Muharraq, Juffair, Abraj Al Lulu, Galali and Segaya and Macro Mart at

West Riffa and Megaba. Do not forget they have great offers on both fashion and cosmetic brands at selected branches to help you look your best this festive season.

Call 17 341-070, 17 250-334, 17 343-266.

bystander

Sarah, Maryam & Lujain

Fatema, Ghufran & Eman

Heba

UCB Exhibition Students of the University College of Bahrain (UCB) held the annual Graphic Design Exhibition under the patronage of Dr Khalid Al Khalifa, founder & chairman of the board of trustees, UCB. Dr Khalid inauguates the exhibition

Mayas & Lama

62 June 2015

Mohammed & Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalid Al Khalifa

Ahmed

Nouf & Layali

Aida, Rana & Shaikha Saeeda

Ebrahim & Asma

Layali & Nada

Farah & Sarah

Anila & Blessy

www.bahrainthismonth.com

supermarkets&retailoutlets ALOSRA

To Go: Arabic Mezze

One supermarket offers a range of foods specially prepared for Ramadan.

64 June 2015

Ramadan is recognised as a time for family, when people get together to break the fast after a long day of abstinence, preparing sumptuous meals and talking, chatting and playing games long into the night before partaking in the suhoor meal just before the sun rises.

Taking part in an Iftar is quite an occasion, with events staged nightly at many of the island’s hotels and restaurants, but some of the best Ramadan meals are eaten at home or with friends.

During the Holy Month, when Bahrainis break their fast, they do so over the most delicious meals. Dates, a warm bowl of soup and samboosa are just some of the staple bites you will find on the dining table.

Alosra wanted to take part in making your Ramadan meals as satisfying and special as possible. With its To Go range, the Arabic mezzes will complement your meals perfectly and can even be enjoyed as a light suhoor meal!

“Mezzes make for perfect sides, but we wanted to provide customers with more than just your typical hummous and tabouleh. We have mixed it up and now customers can enjoy the classics with a special twist, such as tabouleh with pomegranate, moutabel with pomegranate, and beetroot hummous,” says food specialist, Sara Babar. “The To Go brand aims to provide people with new recipes to enjoy on the go. I am always on the lookout to mix different ingredients together that produce a flavourful and innovative end-result.”

If you find yourself mid-fast and the cravings start to take over, you can anticipate the breaking of the fast and head down to Alosra and straight to the To Go chillers for some of the delicious Arabic mezzes.

Freshly made, using only the best ingredients, these mezzes are the delicious and nutritious way to break your fast or to enjoy as your last bite of the day!

Alosra has always been an advocate for preserving the environment and has launched a new campaign that helps spread awareness about it in a fun and fashionable way. The name itself is a wordplay on the move to a more eco-conscious you: B-ECO-ME! You can now purchase reusable eco-friendly bags and ditch the plastic ones altogether. These are not just easy on the environment but are also designed with stylish patterns, so you can use them for a variety of occasions, be it grocery shopping, a trip to the gym or just as a day bag.

“We only have one Earth to live on and we need to start taking better care of it,” says marketing and product development manager, Pavlos Manousos Babiolakis. “The BECOME project has been underway for more than a year now and we are excited to finally be able to share the end results with our customers.”

Call 17 697-558 or visit www.alosraonline.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

‫رمضان كريم‬

RAMADAN KAREEM

Insta

supermarkets&retailoutlets JAWAD SUPERMARKET

Shop and Cook

Alexandra Mariot

APPLE SHARMA Brand ambassador of Jawad Supermarket, chef Alexandra Mariot’s in-store cooking classes are becoming extremely popular.

BTM went to check out this innovative concept and one of her sessions.

66 June 2015

A brand new concept started by Jawad Supermarket is making waves and giving people a chance to try out products first hand with French chef Alexandra Mariot’s cooking classes.

Alexandra has lived in Bahrain for the past 16 years and is renowned on the island for her traditional macaroons. She started her business from home selling cakes and macaroons as well as catering and is now the face of Jawad supermarket.

“We have a theme each month — cuisine of a country per month and a city or region from that country per week,” says Alexandra. “Mr Faisal Jawad decided it would be a good way to showcase the products to the customers and how they could be cooked; it would bring the shop alive and be welcoming as it’s something different in Bahrain.”

Alexandra’s classes are held every Tuesday at Jawad Supermarket in Barbar from 10am to 12 noon and from 6pm to 8pm.

“Every week is a different region, with three recipes (appetiser, main course and dessert) in the morning and a different menu for the evening,” she says.

The classes are suited for everyone to attend, whether you’re a working professional, mothers looking after children or a cooking enthusiast.

“During Ramadan, there will be one class at 10pm and if it works well then maybe we will do one from 9pm to 11pm. We will see according to attendance of the people,” says Alexandra.

“All ingredients are from Jawad Supermarket, so each time we have a region or a country, we try to have the best products in order for me to work better and for clients to appreciate the novelties and products that you cannot find anywhere else. We also import several items making it possible to have the best products possible for the classes and for the customers to buy after the class.

“Jawad has a very good range of local vegetables, dropped off fresh at the supermarket by the local farmers. This is something we really want to continue promoting because we think it is the best way instead of having the imported ones that grow in the trucks.”

Alexandra’s favourite cuisine is Italian as it’s close to France. “They have fresh products, pastas, pizzas and risottos and whenever I make those, they’re always a hit,” she says.

This month has a Ramadan theme where Alexandra will give classes on Arabic food teaching how to prepare various combinations of dishes.

The classes have been extremely popular since they started in mid-April. “We started with the UK England, Scotland and Wales and people were very happy,” says Alexandra. “For me it’s a great thing as I’m really enjoying doing it because cooking is my passion and not just work.”

In the coming months, the supermarket will also have videos of the classes playing throughout the day inside the shop for customers’ benefit.

Anyone can join the classes, no advance booking is required and they are free for all. There are also recipe cards available for the customers to take home.

All the recipes are cooked right in front of you and people attending the class also get to taste the food at the end of each recipe. Alexandra makes it fun for all — questions are welcome and she also gives little cooking tips as she goes along.

Call 17 691-010, email alexandra.mariot@jawad.com or visit Jawad Supermarket in Budaiya. www.bahrainthismonth.com

supermarkets&retailoutlets YATEEM CENTRE

Fish for Fun One of the oldest arcades in the Kingdom is introducing a fun new way to give back to its customers and a chance to win exciting prizes this Ramadan.

June has arrived and so has the heat, just in time for Ramadan. But despite the weather, business is building up in Bab Al Bahrain souq as people visit the historic heart of the country and explore the alleyways and shops that define the area.

Located at the beginning of the souq is the Yateem Centre, Bahrain’s first air-conditioned commercial mall which still has some of the original features that made it popular when it was first launched. With a unique character of its own, it’s brimming with original shops that you can’t find anywhere else.

This year, the Yateem Centre has come up with a novel way to beat the heat and celebrate Ramadan – by setting up a fishing pond with prizes!

During Ramadan, shoppers at the mall have a chance to win BD1,000 cash prizes in a main raffle. More prizes can be won by hooking a ‘fish’ or duck out of the pool. It may sound easy but it’s far from it as the fishing has to be done from the atrium upstairs with the pool on the ground floor, within 60 seconds - a test of skill and luck.

“This year we wanted to add an element of fun into our celebrations,” says manager Andrew Petty. “Fishing down into the atrium has generated a lot of smiles and laughter and we look forward to seeing people enjoying themselves. The added bonus of a possible cash prize

from your fish just makes the whole game more exciting.”

“We are expecting more than a thousand cash winners during the course of Ramadan, either from the ‘Fish for Fun’ or from the main raffle,” adds deputy centre manager Paresh Bhatia. “This is a chance for the Yateem Centre to give something back to our loyal customers, both in cash and in fun. We will also have our annual charity collection box for a Bahraini charity, supporting children and the deprived in society, so please think about bringing gifts, clothing or cash to donate.”

Getting to the Yateem Centre is now easier than ever - drive into the souq through the Zamil Gate, turn left at Dadabhai Holidays to find the entrance to the basement visitors’ car park. Only shoppers at the centre get the first two hours of parking free.

Call 17 215-615.

bystander

& Bahrain Association of Banks held a networking lunch at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Business Lunch AmCham Bay. Tristan Attenborough, managing director & regional executive, J.P. Morgan, was the guest speaker.

HE William Roebuck, US Ambassador, fourth from left, with members of the business community

Marina & Nicola

Claudia & Matthias

Maria & Antoinette

Sultan & Ali

68 June 2015

Faisal & Habib

Nasser & Mike

Tristan & Ece

Rohit & Kainat

Osama

Ugo

Diana & Mary

Angus

Bob

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A spectacular new photographic book about the Kingdom of Bahrain

by Andrew Weaver

“The first aerial photography book about Bahrain ever to be produced, containing over 250 amazing images shot almost entirely from helicopters”.

In all leading bookstores now.

For further information and corporate sales contact: (+973) 39445102 or email: weaverphoto@yahoo.com Available in 3 sizes.

MOTORING

THE POWER TO SURPRISE CHARLIE HOLDING Family-friendly SUVs needn’t be dull — a fact this model proves effortlessly.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 72 MORE POWER, BETTER VALUE 73 TRULY TERRIFIC TURBO

2015 KIA Sorento

S

ome of my fondest childhood memories come from family meals at our local Italian restaurant — Trattoria Sorento. What made this restaurant great was its reputation for continually serving up delicious, honest food for a fair price.

It comes as little surprise then, that the 2015 KIA Sorento is an honest and competitivelypriced SUV with a tasty new look.

In the past, this model had a reputation for its rugged capability but was never recognised for its style. While the space and practicality of this model remain largely unchanged, the interior has undergone a dramatic revamp, which, in my opinion, puts it on par with some luxury SUVs. The elegant and spacious cabin is covered in fine, soft-touch material and finished nicely with a metallic trim. For efficient planning, the www.bahrainthismonth.com

in-built Trip Computer calculates distance to empty, fuel consumption, average speed, trip mileage and journey time elapsed, while additional interior features of the Kia Sorento including the air filter and dash illumination dimmer switch add an extra touch of panache.

With a number of seating configurations, the Sorento is ideal for families and has plenty of storage space for the weekly shop. And the best bit, it genuinely looks cool, which proves that family run-arounds needn’t ruin your street credit.

Under the bonnet is a capable 197bhp engine paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox and a choice of three driving modes — Normal, Comfort and Sport. The result? A ride that is smooth and comfortable.

Despite its commanding size, this model is fairly easy to manoeuvre and makes highway driving, dare I say, a pleasure … providing

you’re not stuck in traffic!

The model I drove also had a plethora of infotainment options — all accessible from the touch-screen display — the highlights of which include; Bluetooth, navigation, multi-media, cameras, parking sensors and dual zone climate control.

Safety is important and this model delivers on its promise of occupant safety.

With six airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and rear ISOFIX child seat anchors (all as standard within the Sorento safety and security specification), you can be confident that you’re in safe hands.

KIA’s tagline ‘the power to surprise’ is nothing short of an understatement when it comes to the Sorento.

Call AA Bin Hindi on 17 408-800.

June 2015 71

motoring VOLKSWAGEN

More Power, Better Value Unveiled at the Qatar Motor Show this year, the new generation of this sporty sedan has been extensively redesigned.

The new Volkswagen Jetta has undergone dramatic changes both inside and out and is aiming to impress with its two model configurations — Jetta SE and Jetta SEL. Besides impressive new front and rear designs, the new model offers a powerful 2.5-litre petrol engine, producing 125kW/170 HP, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission gearbox.

Felix Miranda, brand manager of Volkswagen Centre Bahrain, says: “The Jetta continues to be one of our most popular models, the new engine is a fully loaded entry-level sedan, and is the ideal choice for young professionals who desire a German-engineered, sporty sedan at an affordable price.

“The new model offers our customers a blend of sporty elegance and refined front and rear designs ensuring exceptional value within its segment. The drive is also one of the most economical, with a fuel consumption of just 7.1 litres per 100km.”

The entry level Jetta SE is packed with features including: a parking distance control; “Climatronic” air-conditioning system with automatic air

recirculation mode; multi-function leather wrapped steering wheel with aluminium decorative inserts with control for MFD, radio and telephone; a multi-function display “Plus”, RCD 510 radio and media-In jack with iPod/iPhone adapter.

Additionally, the model features an electric tilt/slide glass sunroof; 17-inch alloy “Lancaster” wheels; rear view camera and Leatherette interior.

The Jetta SEL has a number of distinguishing features including ambient lighting; front fog lamps with static cornering light on the exterior, bi-xenon headlamps – including cornering lights – LED rear lights and separate LED daytime running lamps.

The Light and Sight Package in the SEL boasts an auto dimming interior mirror, which dims potentially visually impairing light emitted by traffic approaching from the rear, and automatic headlamp activation with separate daytime running lights.

Prices start from BD115 per month on auto loan.

Call 17 459-977 or visit the Volkswagen showroom in Sitra.

VW Jetta

72 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Porsche Cayenne GTS

PORSCHE CENTRE BAHRAIN

A Truly Terrific Turbo CHARLIE HOLDING This luxury SUV is proof that Porsche deserves its reputation as a performance brand.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

On first glance, you could be forgiven for thinking this model looks familiar because, well, it does. To the uninitiated, the Cayenne GTS could be mistaken for a Turbo, thanks to the trickle down of DNA, which is apparent in the front air intakes and lighting system.

The model has received a facelift and has been impressively revamped with more features as standard than ever before. Highlights include a new eight-speed Tiptronic S with Auto Stop/Start and coasting functions, bi-xenon headlights with fourpoint LED daytime driving lights, multi-function sports steering wheel with paddle switches and an automatic boot lid.

The biggest change, however, is the engine. When I heard that the beastly V8 had been swapped out for a 3.6-litre twin-turbo V6, I’m not going to lie, I was a little disappointed.

However, after driving it, I may have to eat my words because, despite the downsizing, the GTS has plenty of punch and the added benefit of lower CO2 emissions.

To compensate for the missing roar of the V8, this model has a sport exhaust system and sound symposer to beef up the engine note. It’s a good attempt and, to the vast majority of drivers, it will do the trick.

Fortunately, there is no denying this model’s capabilities and the three-letter title reserved for

Porsche’s most sporty models — GTS — is well placed on the 2015 Cayenne.

The Cayenne GTS is positioned between the Cayenne S and the Cayenne Turbo and its makers claim it is the most agile and passionate version of the model series ... it’s hard to disagree with them!

The cockpit is really worth bragging about. Clearly laid out, easy to use and incredibly well designed with leather dominating the dashboard. The infotainment system is user-friendly and most functions can be accessed via the centre stack which houses a touchscreen display.

The most important element is, of course, the drive and this GTS delivers on the promise of a memorable drive. Despite it’s size this model is surprisingly nimble and handles well around corners.

Highway driving is confident, assertive and smooth and I had no trouble maneuvering between traffic. I took the opportunity to run through the driving modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus, but to be honest, Sport Plus is where I felt this model performed best.

The off-road capability is equally impressive and, at the flick of a switch, it becomes stiffer, more rigged and ready to tackle difficult terrain.

Inside and out, this model delivers the highest levels of motorsport technology in the comfort and luxury of an everyday car.

Call 17 459-911.

June 2015 73

bystander

Chery Tiggo Launch Motorcity launched the Chery Tiggo 5 at the Chery showroom in Sanad.

The new model

Officials at the launch

Mohammed, Vickesh, Mahmood, James, Dr Bijan, Trevor, Omran, Vivek

Bisan & Lourdes

Mohamed, Ali & Hamad

Nissan Ramadan Launch Y.K Almoayyed & Sons launched the 2015 Nissan Ramadan Promotion at the Nissan showroom in Sitra.

Ranjith, Paul & Peter

Ali & Yogesh

74 June 2015

Shafee & Hisham

Salman, Rohit & Paul

Dana, Sara & Fatema

Ranjith & Mohanty

Sreekumar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring

EURO MOTORS

On Track for Success Euro Motors, the importer of BMW vehicles in Bahrain, joined with BMW Group to organise an exclusive driving experience.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The BMW M meets X event is a driving experience aimed at showcasing sophisticated and stylish innovations from the German automotive powerhouse.

Euro Motors, the importer of BMW in Bahrain, invited a group of journalists down to the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) to put a range of BMWs through their paces.

Anyone who has driven one knows that BMWs are highly efficient driving machines and the raw power at your disposal is staggering.

The M-badged cars include modified engines, transmissions, suspensions, interior trims, aerodynamics, and exterior modifications to set them apart from their counterparts.

All of the models in the M series have their own distinctive look and feel but they all share the same unmistakable BMW DNA. The event was split into two driving components in which experienced BMW driver trainers provided insights into the new technologies and performance of both the BMW M and X vehicles. The first part of the event focused on the M vehicles – and to ensure that safety remained paramount at all times – guests were told how

best to drive the cars and handle them in safe driving situations that included circuit laps on the race track and training on acceleration, slaloming, cornering and braking.

The second phase of the event focused on the driving dynamics of the X models on a course created to showcase the versatility of the model range. The track focused on powering the cars through straights, around corners and bends as well as showcasing performance dynamism through wide and narrow slaloms.

Paul Yates, general manager, Euro Motors, says: “BMW has made the letter M the most powerful, with vehicles that truly represent the pinnacle of performance motoring.

“The M models come alive on the track and push the boundaries of the engine’s immense capabilities. We have brought our customers and members of the media to experience these cars in a safe and controlled environment. This has given our customers a better understanding to the technology and innovation in these powerful cars.”

Call 17 750-750.

June 2015 75

bystander

Italian Embassy Reception HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador and wife Romina held a cocktail reception at their residence to mark the participation of an Italian delegation at the Food & Hospitality Expo, in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce of Modena and Piacere Modena. Special envoy from Italy, chef Roberto Macchioni, entertained guests with typical Italian appetisers during the evening, which was hosted in co-operation with Ferrari.

HE Alberto Vecchi and wife Romina

Chef Roberto

Valentina, Michaela & Isabella

Marzia, Leylan & Dogan

Qays, HE Alberto Vecchi & Mohammed

Nabil & Tariq

Lilian & Ramla

Loridana & Julia

Nihad, Rawan & Farah

Rawan, Nada & Fatima

Blessy, Maliha & Anila

Mariam, Nadine & Miral

UCB Multimedia Showcase The students of University College of Bahrain held the fourth annual multimedia showcase at Saar Cinema featuring documentaries, short movies, and animations. Chief guest at the event was Bassam Al Thawadi, Bahraini veteran filmmaker & acting general director for radio & television, Information Affairs Authority (BTV).

Bassam cuts the opening ribbon

Mahmood & Hameed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Yaqeen & Atikha

Dr Shaloazuddin, Maliha, Saeeda, Usman & Zeeshan

June 2015 77

motoring

JAC M1

JAC

Practicality and Style When a regular-sized station wagon just isn’t up to the task, the JAC M1 minibus could be the answer you’ve been looking for.

With seating for 12 the M1 can be used for a variety of business and leisure roles — such as a hotel shuttle for tourists or for taking businessmen to a big event.

Besides its fashionable design, reliability and economy are part of the M1’s DNA, its makers

say. The minibus offers plenty of space for both driver and passengers and its clever design allows the seats to be tipped up, slid or reclined.

Whatever the circumstances, there’s certain to be a combination to suit your requirements.

Safety is a key element in every JAC vehicle and, as such, the M1 boasts driver and front seat passenger airbags. In a serious accident, they instantly inflate to help protect occupants from injury while the high strength armour plate

absorbs the impact during a collision.

The M1 comes with an ABS+EBD system to ensure that you can stop safely and suddenly should the need arise.

Besides being a practical, hard-working loadcarrier, those seated up-front will appreciate the high degree of comfort and convenience that feature in a beautifully appointed cabin. The rear seats can be repositioned to suit your needs so passengers can have more space if required. It can be customised to three seats and six seats to suit both staff and material transport.

There’s a special offer on the M1 at JAC Motors. The vehicle comes at an attractive starting price of BD4,990 or with a monthly leasing option at BD120 per month.

Call 17 270-270 or visit the JAC showroom at Segaya Plaza, Zinj.

bystander

KIA Inaugurates New Showroom A A Bin Hindi opened its second KIA Motors showroom in Sitra under the patronage of HE Zayed Alzayani, Minister of Industry and Commerce. New models of the Sorento and Grand Carnival were launched during the event.

AA Bin Hindi & KIA officials cut the cake

Mazin, Abdulla bin Hindi, Mohamed Al Khozae, Ahmed bin Hindi & HE Joonha Yu, Korean Ambassador

78 June 2015

Management, staff and invited guests

Redha, Mahesh, Santosh & Sindhu

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringbigdeals

Y. K. ALMOAYYED & SONS

‘Get More For Less’ Promotion Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons, distributor of Nissan in Bahrain, has launched its Ramadan promotion with amazing prices guaranteed and value-added benefits on Nissan vehicles.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The promotion breaks convention by starting a month early, yet remains a continuation of Nissan’s tradition to reward customers with more value during this period.

Paul Baker, general manager, Nissan, says: “This is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to our customers for their continuous support throughout the year. These special Ramadan prices are incredible and customers can also enjoy a range of value-added benefits as well.”

Some of the featured vehicles in the promotion include the new Micra — which now starts from BD3,995 — the new Sunny from BD4,495 and the Sentra 1.6S starts at just BD5,995.

For customers who prefer crossovers, Nissan offers the stylish Juke from BD6,995 and the X-Trail from BD7,995. Meanwhile, the Pathfinder startsfrom BD10,995 and the ever-popular Patrol “the hero of all terrain” starts at BD15,995 for a limited period only.

“In addition to these wonderful offers, our

customers can also enjoy more value with free insurance, free service, free registration, free rustproofing, plus the very popular spin and win where they will receive instant discounts,” adds Mr. Baker.

Customers can also take advantage of trade-in deals if they wish to sell their existing car and buy a brand new Nissan. They can also make the most of attractive finance rates being offered during the promotion.

Until June 16, the Nissan showroom in Sitra will have extended working hours — from 8am to 9pm, all days except Fridays.

For the Holy Month, the showroom will be open from 9am to 1pm and from 7.30pm to 11.30pm everyday — excluding Fridays, when the showroom will be open between 7.30pm and 11.30pm.

Call 17 732-732 or visit the Nissan showroom in Sitra.

June 2015 79

bystander

Wafa & Charlie

Mercedes Launch

Al Haddad Motors launched the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC at the Al Haddad Motors showroom in Tubli.

Graeme, Imran, Bryan, Mohammed & Abdulla

Nada & Marise

Wafa & Nada with the new car

Hussain, Fatima & Joel

Gopal & Tarun

Jalil Al Ansari

Foreign Investors Association Launch The Foreign Investors Association, which encourages investments in Bahrain from private individuals living abroad, was launched last month under the patronage of HE Zayed Alzayani, Industry & Commerce Minister.

Fadi Al Majali & HE Zayed Alzayani

Fadi, Hisham, Francois, Samir, Rabia, Mohannad & Oksana

Zaher Hammouda

YotaPhone 2 Launch Batelco in collaboration with Yota Devices launched the YotaPhone 2 White at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa. In attendance was Muna Al Hashemi, Batelco’s acting CEO, Vladimir Martynov, Yota Devices CEO and other Batelco and Yota Devices officials and Bin Hindi senior executives.

Fahad Bin Hindi, Khalid Bin Hindi, Vladimir Martynov, Abdul Karim & Moiseyev

80 June 2015

Vladimir with Batelco

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringbigdeals MOHAMMED JALAL & SONS

Sleek and Spacious There is a special promotion on a range of Suzuki cars at Mohammed Jalal & Sons, the agent in Bahrain for the Japanese automaker.

Suzuki 2015 SX4 Sedan

Customers looking for a stylish ride at a competitive price are encouraged to head to the showroom in Al-Khamis to see the stunning array of vehicles. One of the most popular models is the 2015 SX4 Sedan which has the elegance and practicality of a saloon, a roomy interior and the convenience and utility of Suzuki’s high-roof wagon, its maker say.

As part of the promotion, it comes with free insurance, free registration, free five-year warranty, free road assistance for a year and free rustproofing.

The economical sedan has a 1.6-litre VVT petrol engine that delivers generous power and torque throughout the rev range. The suspension,

www.bahrainthismonth.com

brakes, and transmissions were tuned in Europe, with further fine-tuning for local preferences.

Safety features include a rigid body structure with front – and rear-side door impact beams and three-point ELR seatbelts are standard for all occupants on all grades. Dual SRS airbags are fitted on all models. Side and curtain airbags are fitted on the higher grades. The system can be upgraded to ESP (Electronic Stability programme).

Call 17 252-606 or 17 707-070.

June 2015 81

motoringbigdeals AL HADDAD MOTORS

Driven by Performance The latest compact SUV from this iconic German automaker is winning fans with its sleek looks and impressive capability both on and off-road.

It’s undeniable that compact crossovers are big business and it was only a matter of time before the world’s leading luxury marques tossed a hat into the ring.

The 2015 GLA 250 was unveiled during a special event at the Al Haddad Motors showroom in Tubli. Top brand officials, members of the media and Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts all gathered to catch a glimpse of the new model.

Some critics have dubbed the GLA 250 as ‘a scaled down version of the ML and GLK ranges’ as a result of its impressive capability.

Whether in the city, to the office or on the beach it reinterprets the crossover segment and effortlessly masters all challenges while being tough enough for rough terrain — it is the ideal car for desert and city dwellers alike in Bahrain, its makers say.

The rear seat backrests can be folded down completely and are also adjustable for different angles if required (optional). The large luggage compartment can be loaded easily thanks to the low loading sill and the wide tailgate, which opens and closes automatically as an option.

The GLA 250 “Urban” line features a radiator grille with two silverpainted louvres and chrome inserts, 19-inch five-spoke light-alloy wheels and also a twin-pipe exhaust system with chrome-plated tailpipe trim

Mercedes-Benz 2015 GLA 250

integrated into the bumper.

The GLA 250 boasts Mercedes’ trademark 4Matic four-wheel drive system.

The components include the power take-off to the rear axle, which is integrated into the 7G-DCT automated dual clutch transmission, and the rearaxle gear unit with integrated, hydraulically actuated multi-disc clutch.

Standard-fit features include Attention Assist drowsiness detection and radar-based Collision Prevention Assist with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to avoid collisions from a speed as low as 7kmph.

Call Al Haddad Motors on 17 785-454 and follow them on Facebook.com/ alhaddadmotors.mercedesbenzbah for all their latest updates.

bystander

Dalia & Sara

Eman, Fatma & Amal

Al Kindi Conference The Al Kindi First International Pediatric Conference took place at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain under the patronage of the HE Sadiq bin Abdulkarim Al-Shehabi, Health Minister. Speakers and presenters shared their knowledge on a variety of topics at the event, which was organised by Al Kindi Specialised Hospital and Bahrain Medical Society.

HE Sadiq Al Shehabi inaugurates the conference

Dr Hanan, Dr Hala, Seham & Dr Mona

82 June 2015

Batul & Feryal

Dr Chris, Dr Marwa, Abeer & Dr Trisa

Dr Maha & Dr Aysha

Dr Alaa & Dr Aqeela

Aysha & Khawla

Georgette & Dr Ibtisam

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Novotel’s Party

Novotel held a cocktail party for key bookers at its beachside venue.

Khalil & Laurent

Haribabu, Ravi & Mahmood

Doris, Sophie & Isabelle

Honely, Ocha & Rosherl

AMA Mini Olympics AMA International School Bahrain hosted the 2015 Schools Mini Olympics at the Isa Sports City. The event was organised by the Bahrain Olympic Committee in cooperation with the Education Ministry and held under the patronage of Supreme Council for Youth and Sports chairman and BOC president HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Management and students of AMA

Hana’s Surprise Birthday

Family and close friends surprised Hana for her 21st birthday, which was celebrated at Amwaj lofts.

Charlotte, Libby, Hana, Blossom, Tiana, Alya, Alison, Peter, Daniel & Dion

Rose, Denzil & Zilia

Maria

84 June 2015

Shalini

Carol & Prasad

Oswald & Denzil

Sharon & Irwin

Carol & Serena

Trevor & Val

Sam, Hana, Mohammed, Kurt, Linekar, Marwa, Gabrielle, Alya & Rhea

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

Cobra Jumpack This nifty item is a must-have for summer road trips, as it is important to keep a battery charged. No, not the phone’s battery (although it charges that too) but a car battery. It can charge mobile devices on the go, too, including smartphones, tablets and digital cameras.

June Bracelet

Treo Chair

The June UV Monitoring Bracelet and iPhone app will help you measure your sun exposure throughout the day. Receive real-time advice on your smartphonethat includes what kind of sun cream to put on and when the weather is hottest.

Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, going camping or watching your child’s football match, these tightly packable chairs are perfect for carrying in your bag. In a moment, it can unfold into a chair with a realistic seat height and width that doesn’t require a technical plan of descent just to get into.

Hot Cookie USB Cup Warmer Working hard by the computer can often lead to forgotten hot beverages. However, this gadget will change the face of unknowingly sipping on cold coffee and promises tokeep your drink hot for 30 minutes.

Polaroid Socialmatic Combine the nostalgic fun of a vintage Polaroid camera with the modern-day demands of social media. Stay connected with the built in Wi-Fi that pairs to your phone, allowing you to post your pictures online. The camera also provides Zero Ink printing to provide you with smudgeproof, water-resilient and tear-resistant photos.

Corkcicle Arctican Can Cooler As the days grow warmer and warmer, a nice cold beverage in the sun is a must but, sadly, cold drinks don’t stay that way for long in the searing sun.Luckily, help is at hand with this temperature-controllingcasing, which will ensure your drink stays cold for four hours.

Cove USB Charging Station Cove USB Charging Station There’s nothing more frustrating than losing chargers and tangled cables everywhere. The charging station has a contemporary design to fit any home décor and hide the devices being charged in sliding doors and easy-access shelves. It can charge up to five tablets and smartphones at a time.

Smartphone Projector Turn your living room into a cinema (without spending thousands of dinars) with this device that can project your smartphone screen onto the wall, magnifying it eight times. With a silicone grip to hold your phone securely in place, get the popcorn in the microwave, your friends round and the lights off for this awesome gadget. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sodastream MIX Smart. Simple. Bubbles. Create soda just the way you like it with a gadget that enables you to carbonate water, add flavour and enjoy quality at the same time. Be in charge of how much sparkle is in your water and choose from the 30 flavours.

June 2015 85

music

Blur – The Magic Whip What’s the story?

It turns out that this album is simply a mash-up of five days worth of jams the band recorded while stranded in Hong Kong. Critics have said The Magic Whip ‘sounds like an album that was years in the making’. There are a number of standout tracks that prove the Brit-pop boys still have what it takes to woo fans across the world. I Broadcast is a track that Blur fans will love to sing along to, and Ghost Ship, is a personal favourite.

Worth a listen?

According to The Telegraph, Blur’s first album in 12 years is everything fans could have hoped for.

Some of the songs come straight from the vintage Blur playbook that has always offered an eclectic mix. Opener Lonesome Street has a classic Coxon riff while Albarn spends his verses sneering at the mundanity of global consumer culture. Albarn’s voice has weathered warmer and wearier over the band’s career. The elegant melancholy honed in his solo work is evident. It’s safe to say the boys are back in town.

Verdict: Get ready to have your mind blown.

Shorts

1989 – Taylor Swift She’s back and angrier with her exes than ever before. Swift’s success has undeniably come from lamenting on her break-ups – hitting a note with young teens and the broken hearted.

According to The Guardian, Swift’s fifth record is a bold, gossipy confection that plays to her strengths – strengths which pretty much define modern pop, with its obsession with the private lives of celebrities and its premium on heightened emotion.

86 June 2015

Chasing Yesterday – Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds The talented Gallagher brother returns in fine form with his second solo album that can only be described as ‘classic Noel’. His talent as a songwriter has never been called into question and this album cements his reputation. Tracks like The Right Stuff and Lock All The Doors are reminiscent of early Oasis and will surely be a hit with fans.

Stages – Josh Groban If you’re a fan of theatre and film standards, this could be the album for you. The tracks are richly arranged to accommodate his powerful baritone. The results are mixed. His phrasing and control are unimpeachable, and the warmth of his tone makes his rendition of the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory song Pure Imagination easier to take. On I Loved You (from Carousel), he duets well with Broadway star Audra McDonald. www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games review Good cop, bad cop … you decide in this thrilling shoot em’ up.

Game: Battlefield: Hardline Rating:****

What is it? 100

Battlefield: Hardline is a first-person shooter game inspired by modern TV drama. Miami is embroiled in a drug war and officer Nick Mendoza (you) has just made detective. Alongside your partner, you must follow the drug supply chain from the streets to the source. In a series of increasingly off-the-books cases with incredible twists in every episode, the two detectives come to realise that power and corruption can affect both sides of the law.

Graphics:

The award-winning Frostbite game engine has created a work of art with spectacular graphics for this part of the Battlefield series. No matter what part of Battlefield Hardline’s environments you’re playing in, it’s a feast for the eyes. The series has a history of looking and sounding excellent, and Hardline continues the tradition. Through gunfights, car crashes, and explosions, it all runs at a smooth 60 frames per second that stay rock solid on PS4 and Xbox One.

Mortal Kombat X

This is the 10th instalment of the popular Mortal Kombat video game series. Two players battle to the death using a variety of attacks, special moves and gruesome fatalities. Perfect your tactics and special moves with each individual player to beat your enemies. The game’s play modes include Story, 1 vs. 1 Ranked, King of the Hill, Survivor, Test Your Luck and many more. It also offers a new fully connected experience that launches players into a persistent online contest where every fight matters in a global battle for supremacy. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gameplay:

The focus of the game is the war on crime, breaking away from the military setting that has characterised the series. Players will have access to various military-grade weapons and vehicles, such as the Lenco BearCat, as well as police equipment such as tasers and handcuffs. The game features seven game modes; Heist, Blood Money, Rescue, Crosshair, Hotwire, Conquest and Team Deathmatch. They’re all unique, awesome, and waiting for you.

Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee - New ‘n’ Tasty

Abe’s back to face his oddest challenge yet. A Mudokon chosen by fate, Abe was a first class worker for RuptureFarms who overheard plans from his boss, Molluck the Glukkon, to turn him and his fellow Mudokons into tasty treats as a final effort to rescue Molluck’s failing packing empire. Can Abe change the fate of thousands and rescue the Mudokons?

Lead our unlikely hero on his mission, because if he doesn’t make it … Abe’s back on the menu!

Dragon Age: Inquisition

Choose and spearhead a team into rough battles against your enemies.

Construct structures, customise outposts and reshape the landscape to your preference. Lead your team of nine unique characters who react to your actions and choices, allowing you to form complex relationships with them. Become an agent of change in a time of uncertainty and upheaval and shape the course of empires by bringing war or peace to factions in conflict.

June 2015 87

websites

bystander

Henny & Anisa

Hala

VERDICT:

Site: www.supercook.com Rating:*****

Haraka Watch Launch Jashanmal Bahrain launched the Haraka watch collection at Al A’ali Shopping Complex.

Shirley & Rhizlane

These websites will help you with the stressful tasks of cooking, DIY and entertainment.

What is it?

Amal & Maryam

Mary

Spending hours in front of the fridge with the remains of the weekly shop you did five days ago and trying to think of something interesting to make out of the ingredients you have left is never a fun task; especially when there are hungry mouths to feed. This website lets you input the ingredients you do have and will offer you various meals you can create.

This is a great site for busy parents and lazy students.

The Good Rhizlane, Salwa, Samia & Nada

Reem

Aside from the hundreds of meal ideas ranging from simple to fine fare, you can input your dietary restrictions, so you do not have to sift through meals to see if you can eat them or not. Once you have decided on your chosen meal by clicking on it, the site tells you everything you need to know, from the directions to the prep and cooking time.

The Bad

The only possible negative to this super helpful site website is the layout, it is a bit crowded and cheap looking; however, with the amount of time saving and imagination it gives you, we’re sure you can look past it.

www.canistream.it

BYC Regatta Bahrain Yacht Club hosted its annual regatta race and fishing competition. Bands from Bahrain and the surrounding region entertained the audience.

Live musicians performed

We all have that one film that is absolutely impossible to find in any DVD shop, no matter how long we search.

With Can I Stream It, you can quickly find out if you can watch it online. The free service allows you to search the most popular streaming, rental and purchasing services. What’s more, if your film is not there, simply sign up to the service, set a reminder and wait for the email stating your movie is now available.

www.thistothat.com

Salem, Fahad & Hassan

88 June 2015

Mahmood, Wajeeh & Kasim

This to That is a simple website that could save you a lot of time, hassle and even money. Finding something that will stick paper to glass or leather to wood may seem like an odd task, but may well be something you need to do at some point; and this website will give you the various products that will work best for your desired result. Simply select which two materials you wish to attach and let the guide give you a run through of the best products for the job. www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

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

App: mSecure Password Manager Rating:****

What is it?

Fed up of having piles of important contracts for different accounts with the relevant passwords for different companies for different members of the family: cars, rent, mobile phone and school fees?

That’s why people love the mSecure app, which securely manages all of your private information. If your phone is lost or stolen, you can rest assured that the app will safeguarded your login details, bank accounts and credit cards, protecting your finances and identity.

The Good: mSecure uses ultra-secure 256-bit Blowfish encryption to protect personal information such as account numbers, usernames, passwords and more. The app features ‘auto-lock’ to protect the app from prying eyes, a password generator to create unguessable passwords and even optional selfdestruct if a hacker attempts to guess the password.

It is simple, organised and, most importantly, secure.

The Bad:

Verdict: Very secure. Very secretive. Very safe.

App: Deliveries: A Package Tracker

Keep track of your purchases so you know when your product is going to arrive. This app consists of a main list that shows a summary of all your shipments and counts down the days until arrival. You can even select individual deliveries and see exactly where they are on a map. An Apple Watch app is included in the price so you can see the latest updates at a glance. www.bahrainthismonth.com

It will take a few dinars out of your pocket to purchase but you will only have to remember one password instead of the dozens previously floating through your memory.

App: CamFind

CamFind, the mobile visual search engine, allows you to search for anything from your mobile phone just by taking a picture. Take a picture of an animal and discover the breed, take a picture of a product for price comparisons and online shopping, the possibilities are endless. One small glitch in the app is the odd crash now and then, but people love the app too much to let that stop them using it.

June 2015 89

movies

bystander

Fatima & Ann

VERDICT:

Opera Night Film: Avengers: Age of Ultron Rating: *

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art held an Opera Night. International musicians, Anna Karadimitrova, soprano, Preslav Petkov, clarinetist, and Stephnie Cheng, pianist, entertained guests.

Preslav, Anna, Stephanie & Witold

Bernard & Claire

Sadly, this sequel falls unfathomably short of the mark.

Directed By: Joss Whedon Starring: Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo

The Plot:

Anna

When Tony Stark tries to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping programme, things go awry and Earth’s mightiest heroes, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, the Incredible Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye, are put to the ultimate test as the fate of the planet hangs in the balance. As the villainous Ultron emerges, it is up to the Avengers to stop him from enacting his terrible plans. Uneasy alliances and unexpected action pave the way for a global adventure.

Worth Watching?

Beppe, Oliver, Annabel & Angela

Lars

Annual Staff Party Delmon International Hotel held its annual staff party at the hotel’s poolside.

If you’re looking for a movie with the requisite number of explosions, CGI incarnations, occasional wit and a formulaic approach to storytelling, you might enjoy this. Unfortunately the bar was set so high with the first instalment, this film had nowhere to go but downhill. There are too many characters, which results in none of them really having time to shine.

Also, at over two hours long, this film saps your patience as well as crushing your expectations.

Mad Max: Fury Road

Shaikh Mohammed Al Khalifa, managing director, Caravan Group of Hotels, cuts the cake

Adel & Shaikh Mohammed

90 June 2015

Cote

Joy & Thanda

This post-apocalyptic story is set in a dystopian future where humanity is broken and almost everyone is crazed, fighting for the necessities of life. Lone wolf Mad Max (Tom Hardy) meets rebel Furiosa (Charlize Theron) who is on the run from savage warlord Immortan Joe. Furiosa stole Immortan’s most precious resource, five young women who have been kept as objects to mother the next generation. They need Max’s knowledge of the desert to safely cross it and escape the madness of their enemies.

Insidious Chapter 3

A prequel to the Insidious series; find out what happened before the terrifying Lambert family haunting. See how gifted psychic Elise Rainier reluctantly agrees to use her ability to contact the dead in order to help a teenage girl who has been targeted by a dangerous supernatural entity. Like most of James Wan’s films, what starts out as a classic “ominous surroundings with minimal turmoil waiting to blow up” scenario moves towards something darker and more sinister.

Terrifying and tense, you will be jumping, screaming and hiding behind your cushions while watching this. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Add prestige to your kitchen

The spacious Prestige Pair all refrigerator and upright freezer will safely and conveniently preserve your favorite foods for a large party or your everyday life. The frost-free pair has earned an ‘A’ Energy rating so it saves energy and money, too.

Showroom: Tel. 17 408151 / 17 408150 email: ybyf@batelco.com.bh www.yyfakhro.com

bystander

Mr Nasser & Salah Abu Zaid

BSH Inauguration The Bahrain Specialist Hospital Clinics (BSH) opened in Riffa, under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Governor, Southern Governorate and HE Sadiq Al Shehabi, Health Minister.

Dignitaries cut the cake

Dr Kasim, Dr Naja & Dr Ebtisam

Dr Murat & Hamad

Thelma, Shainy, Corazon, Lucila, Lolita, Handi & Jameela

Dr Jof

Michelle, Shanta & Nathali

The Wailers Concert The legendary tunes of reggae artist Bob Marley were celebrated in Bahrain during a concert by The Wailers. The band performed many of their hit songs at the Coral Bay beach side.

The Wailers perform

Jana & Srdjan

92 June 2015

Nancy & Naomi

George & Marga

Samar, Sara & Mark

Omni & Sarah

Penny & Irine

Marga & Millington

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING

A DELICIOUS DISCOVERY ANKITA MAMGAIN Good food, great ambience and beaming smiles that greet you at the door, conveying just one sentiment, “Be my guest”.

M

asaya Café & Lounge, in Adliya’s Block 338, has undergone a revamp that stretches from its menu to its management and the result is a pleasant surprise.

Sandwiched between two Oriental kitchens, this is a glamorous dining space that exudes comfort and familiarity. The glass façade, reminded me of big showroom windows and I can imagine it would fill up the space with plenty of natural light during the day. The ceiling is an intriguing arrangement of light panels that illustrates the eatery’s contemporary edge and creative character, which I was hoping would reflect in the food as well.

So, seated at the window my friend and I were greeted by restaurant supervisor Ruwan Jayasinghe. Talking about the establishment with great pride, he reads us the specials and we let him take charge of the night’s menu.

Masaya is almost a year old but was lying www.bahrainthismonth.com

fairly dormant for most of it. The establishment now has new management and things have been looking up since then. It is now a multicuisine restaurant, specialising in Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Indian, Arabic and Mediterranean dishes.

“It’s an entirely new experience for the guests and even for us, the staff,” says Ruwan.

“We are really excited, there’s fresh energy and the new menu is doing really well.”

The starters soon arrived; crusty rissoto in four-cheese sauce and vegetable herb and bean soup. The former included five delicious cheese and rissoto balls, with a beautiful golden crust served on a bed of cheesy sauce, crisscrossed with fresh basil paste, an absolute cheat day indulgence. The soup, not as heavy, was extremely flavourful and comforting, and came with fresh bread on the side.

For the main-course I received a beautifully grilled hammour with a zesty olive, orange and

ALSO THIS MONTH: 95 A GREAT MATCH 96 A VARIETY OF FLAVOURS

caper sauce and thoroughly enjoyed it. My vegetarian friend was served tagliatelle pasta with assorted wild mushroom cream sauce. A portion so generous, most of it went in the doggy bag. The dessert was chocolate brownie with ice-cream — another match made in gourmet heaven.

The menu also has a wide selection of interesting mocktails, smoothies, shakes and sheesha flavours.

Masaya is your weekend dine-out experience combined with the casualness of a neighbourhood sheesha joint. Next time you are out to diner with friends and can’t decide on a cuisine, give Masaya a try and I’ll be surprised if it doest become the group’s regular haunt.

I also learnt that Masaya in Tagalog means ‘happy’ and in Arabic, colours of the ‘setting sun’. Although from what I understand, Masaya Café & Lounge delivers happy times both before and after sunset.

June 2015 93

bystander

Oscar & Karen

Lorna & Mirna

KFC Celebration

Aravind & Reem

KFC celebrated the opening of its 700th store in the Middle East with entertainment and activities for kids.

The KFC Team

Suman, Alam & Hari

Jenna & Janie

Mohammed & Najla

Shantharam’s Birthday Celebrations

Shantharam cuts his cake

The management of Monroe Hotel present a bouquet to Shantharam

94 June 2015

Azza & Seef

Zupash

Ahmed, Mohammed, Seef & Reem

The management and staff of Ramee Group of hotels celebrated the birthday of Shantharam Shetty, group general manager, at the Ramee International Hotel and the Ramee Baisan Hotel.

Dheeptha, Ashalatha & Shantharam

Shantharam, Michele, Ali, Shiju, Diana & Ilyas

www.bahrainthismonth.com

TGI FRIDAYS

A Great Match Apart from the usual surf and turf delicacies, you can look forward to a variety of new burgers and milkshakes at this popular restaurant.

Burgers and milkshakes go together like, well, burgers and milkshakes. It’s one of the most popular pairings at casual dining restaurants — for good reason. Remember the “Durwood Kirby burger and the five-dollar milkshake” in Pulp Fiction? The film pretty much immortalised this wonderful pairing and, on menus across the world, the two are inseparable.

Known for its Tex-Mex grub, TGI Fridays has

Friday’s Cheese Burger

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Triple Beef Bacon Stackhouse Burger

French Dip Stachhouse Burger

introduced a new burger and milkshake menu.

Indulge in meaty sandwiches, packed with mouth-watering toppings layered between fresh buns and a host of fruity goodness.

Try out the restaurant’s French Dip Stackhouse burger, which is a chargrilled patty stacked high with tender braised beef, mushrooms, balsamic grilled onions and Swiss cheese. All this is topped with crispy onions and extra sauce on the side.

For the more experimental, there is the Italian

Stackhouse, which combines beef patty, mozzarella sticks, provolone cheese, pepperoni, baby arugula, basil and marinara sauce between the buns. Not for the faint hearted, the Triple Beef Bacon Stackhouse burger comes with crisp strips of pepper beef bacon, cheddar cheese, salad, bacon jam, more bacon, mayo and herbs.

Or you could just go for the classic Friday’s cheeseburger as well.

Team these sandwiches with delicious milkshakes like the Banana Cream Pie Shake, Grasshopper Pie Shake, Peach Cobbler Shake or the Black Cherries Jubilee Shake for the ultimate meal.

Call 17 179-041 (City Centre Bahrain), 17 827-044 (Juffair) and 17 530-657 (Seef Mall Muharraq).

June 2015 95

dining

California Roll

NUasia Chicken Curry

NU ASIA

A Variety of Flavours There are tempting new additions to the menu at one of the Kingdom’s favourite Asian cuisine restaurants.

96 June 2015

With branches in Seef, Budaiya, Juffair and Isa Town, Nu Asia is a favourite among those seeking quality Asian food, at reasonable prices. Offering four distinct cuisines, this franchise promises a variety of dishes, so you can have something different on each visit.

The menu includes authentic preparations from India, China, Thailand and Japan. The kitchen also prepares a variety of tandoori delicacies, colourful stir-fry dishes, exotic curries and fresh sushi. Further sprucing up this eclectic selection, the restaurant has launched a new menu across all four branches, giving the old favourites a delicious make over and adding a few new ones.

The Chinese section of the menu offers Flaming Chicken, which is cubes of chicken breast, stir-fried with carrots and peas in a hot and sour sauce. For those who love Indian food, there is a much wider variety for vegetarians to look forward to such as vegetable curry and vegetable biriyani. Meanwhile, the Japanese section features new dishes like Prawn Volcano Maki and Deep-Fried Maki –salmon, prawn tempura, avocado, unagi sauce and kimchie mayo. You can also try the brand new Thai dish, Hot Sauce Prawns.

In addition to the new dishes, at Nu Asia’s flagship outlet in the Al A’ali Shopping Complex in Seef, diners can choose from an extended Japanese side menu

which includes dishes like Miso Chicken on Mushroom Risotto and Hamachi Usuzukuri. The restaurant is excited to introduce new sushi such as Caterpillar Roll, Spice Scallop Roll, Unagi Tempura Roll, Dragon Roll and Wasabi Salmon Roll.

A part of Al Abraaj Restaurants Group, Nu Asia allows you to earn while you eat. With each bill you pay you collect points under the new Ahlan programme. Every time you order from or dine at any Al Abraaj Group restaurant, including Nu Asia, remember to sign up for the programme, to redeem a number of benefits. There’s no joining fee and once you get your Ahlan card, the points will immediately be added to your account with every meal eaten at these restaurants.

The card is straightforward to use; for every BD1 you spend at Nu Asia, you receive 10 points. One hundred Ahlan points amount to BD1 so, once you have earned enough points, you can redeem them and make a payment on your next visit to any of the outlets. You also have the choice to pay partly with points and the rest with cash.

Other restaurants where you can use the Ahlan card are Al Abraaj Restaurants, Al Bindaira Cafe, TCBY, Lumee Street Cafe, YaSalam and Italiano.

Call 17 434-344 (Delivery). www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining DELMON INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

Dosa Delight More than 100 different dosas are on the menu at Café Sayah.

Tickle your taste buds with the sumptuous south Indian breakfast dishes on the new menu served all day long at Café Sayah at the Delmon International Hotel.

Mildly spicy, aromatic and refreshing, the breakfast dishes offer an alternative to the typically spicy south Indian flavours.

Dosas are one of the most widely appreciated breakfast dishes found in Indian cuisine. “We are equipped to offer a large variety of dosas along

with many other south Indian delicacies, “ says celebrity chef Venkata Ramana, known for more than 2,000 appearance on TV show Me Inti Vanta, who has joined the hotel as assistant executive chef.

In fact, Café Sayah offers more than 100 varieties of the popular dish catering to both vegetarians and meat eaters alike; for those with a sweet tooth, there’s also plenty to choose from.

If all this food talk is making you hungry? Then head to the Delmon International Hotel and check out the new breakfast menu and while you’re there make sure to pass by the buffet too which caters to Bahrain’s multicultural population. Café Sayah is a 24-hour coffee shop on the hotel’s ground floor which also has its own separate entrance.

Call 17 224-000.

bystander

Dr Ravi Pillai & Soman

Abdul Hussain & Henny Dawani

Shaikh Mansour Al Tassan

Tinju & Abraham’s Wedding Close friends and family gathered to celebrate the wedding of Tinju and Abraham at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Mr & Mrs V K Thomas with Tinju & Abraham

Mr & Mrs Ram Singh with Tinju & Abraham

98 June 2015

Saleem & Ali Hassan

Elham, Jenan & Huda

Quraish Dadabhai & V K Thomas

Laji, Jose & Dr Varghese Kurian

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MAKI

Creative Cuisine

This chic dining venue offers a range of delicious and unique dishes from its one-of-akind menu.

Maki Bahrain is a flag bearer for culinary innovation, not just in the Kingdom, but the entire region. The restaurant really pushes the envelop when it comes to developing fresh food concepts and fusing global influences with Japanese basics, often reaching artistic levels.

99 June 2015

“Our philosophy has not changed. We are here to continue to innovate and come up with the latest and most original dishes in contemporary Japanese cuisine,” says co-founder and managing partner Amer Zeitoun.

The creative talent behind Maki’s dishes is Amer’s brother and the restaurant’s co-founder Mohamad (Oliver) Zeitoun. “In 2002, my brother came up with a brilliant product called Fusion Temaki. At a time when

many Japanese restaurants in the region did not even serve the traditional temaki — simply a nori (sea-weed) roll filled with sushi rice, veggies and seafood — we were already thinking of the fusion version of this Japanese delicacy,” says Amer.

Mohamad transformed the traditional temaki into his own version, which soon became a staple item that diners loved to order.

Replacing rice, the new roll was filled with tempura shrimp, vegetables, crabstick, tobiko and topped with a special sauce. This colourful creation was wrapped in white soya bean paper and sprinkled with black sesame.

This year, Maki presented five brand new dishes that are becoming increasingly popular with the city’s gourmands — Kizami Maki, Sensei Manayer Maki, Shk.Athbi Maki, Shk. Rabaa Maki and Entisar Maki.

Look forward to exotic ingredients such as salmon, black tobiko, foie gras, black truffle oil and edible gold in Entisar Maki.

“It is about food pairing and quality ingredients. We want our guests to enjoy the textures, flavours and colourfulness of our maki rolls,” adds Amer.

Call 17 522-733.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dininginramadan

Ramadan Kareem

ART Rotana Hotel & Resort Choices Restaurant at ART Rotana in Amwaj Islands invites you for an eclectic spread of popular regional dishes for only BD15++ during weekdays and BD17++ during weekends for Iftar or Ghabga. Gatherings for 50 people or above can be organised in the ballroom for only BD13.500++ during weekdays and BD15.500++ per person during weekends.

Call 16 000-111.

Golden Tulip Hotel Head to Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant for a massive spread that boasts authentic regional and international dishes and live cooking stations. Prices start from BD9.900 ++ per person. Ghabga starts at 9pm and goes on till 2 am.

Call 17 535-000.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel The hotel’s Awali Ballroom is ready in all its Arabesque splendour to host yet another season of Ramadan evenings. Expect the best of regional and world cuisine and a host of entertainment. Iftar is priced at BD15.900++ on weekdays and BD16.900++ on weekends and BD8.500++ for children between four to 12 years. Ghabga is priced at BD14.500++per person.

Call 17 533-533.

Bahrain This Month brings you an essential guide to the best Iftar and Ghabga options the Kingdom has to offer.

From dusk to dawn, the island springs to life during the Holy Month, a period of spiritual reflection and sacrifice. As the sun sets, the city’s eateries begin to buzz with life and vigour. Here’s our review of venues offering Iftar and Ghabga events in Bahrain.

Five-star Ramadan Crowne Plaza Bahrain La Mosaique restaurant serves a lavish Iftar everyday for BD12.500++ per person. Indulge in a variety of regional delicacies and sweet treats. The price is inclusive of soft drinks.

Call 17 531-122.

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain The hotel invites you to break your fast with a delicious buffet spread across the majestic gallery and Silks restaurant for only BD15++. You also have the option to book a majlis for groups of seven to 10 people.

Call 17 460-000.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa It’s ‘Ramadan under the stars’ for the fourth consecutive year at this exquisite venue. Savour your favourite dishes while the Bassem Osman band fills the air with traditional tunes. Iftar and Ghabga prices are set at BD19++.

Call 17 636-363.

Gulf Hotel This landmark property is back with its grand Khaimat Al Khaleej tent which can accommodate up to 400 people. Start out with Iftar at Al Waha and Takht Jamsheed restaurants for BD17++ then head to the tent after 9pm for a relaxed Ghabga with prices starting at BD16++.

Call 17 746-400.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Step into Al Khayma and experience the warmth of Arabic hospitality with an extensive Iftar buffet comprising Middle Eastern specialties, live cooking stations and entertainment by a four-piece band. This is priced at BD24++ and BD26++ for Ghabga. Private pergolas are available for BD250++.

Call 17 580-000.

100 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dininginramadan

Ramadan Kareem

ART Rotana Hotel & Resort Choices Restaurant at ART Rotana in Amwaj Islands invites you for an eclectic spread of popular regional dishes for only BD15++ during weekdays and BD17++ during weekends for Iftar or Ghabga. Gatherings for 50 people or above can be organised in the ballroom for only BD13.500++ during weekdays and BD15.500++ per person during weekends.

Call 16 000-111.

Golden Tulip Hotel Head to Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant for a massive spread that boasts authentic regional and international dishes and live cooking stations. Prices start from BD9.900 ++ per person. Ghabga starts at 9pm and goes on till 2 am.

Call 17 535-000.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel The hotel’s Awali Ballroom is ready in all its Arabesque splendour to host yet another season of Ramadan evenings. Expect the best of regional and world cuisine and a host of entertainment. Iftar is priced at BD15.900++ on weekdays and BD16.900++ on weekends and BD8.500++ for children between four to 12 years. Ghabga is priced at BD14.500++per person.

Call 17 533-533.

Bahrain This Month brings you an essential guide to the best Iftar and Ghabga options the Kingdom has to offer.

From dusk to dawn, the island springs to life during the Holy Month, a period of spiritual reflection and sacrifice. As the sun sets, the city’s eateries begin to buzz with life and vigour. Here’s our review of venues offering Iftar and Ghabga events in Bahrain.

Five-star Ramadan Crowne Plaza Bahrain La Mosaique restaurant serves a lavish Iftar everyday for BD12.500++ per person. Indulge in a variety of regional delicacies and sweet treats. The price is inclusive of soft drinks.

Call 17 531-122.

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain The hotel invites you to break your fast with a delicious buffet spread across the majestic gallery and Silks restaurant for only BD15++. You also have the option to book a majlis for groups of seven to 10 people.

Call 17 460-000.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa It’s ‘Ramadan under the stars’ for the fourth consecutive year at this exquisite venue. Savour your favourite dishes while the Bassem Osman band fills the air with traditional tunes. Iftar and Ghabga prices are set at BD19++.

Call 17 636-363.

Gulf Hotel This landmark property is back with its grand Khaimat Al Khaleej tent which can accommodate up to 400 people. Start out with Iftar at Al Waha and Takht Jamsheed restaurants for BD17++ then head to the tent after 9pm for a relaxed Ghabga with prices starting at BD16++.

Call 17 746-400.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Step into Al Khayma and experience the warmth of Arabic hospitality with an extensive Iftar buffet comprising Middle Eastern specialties, live cooking stations and entertainment by a four-piece band. This is priced at BD24++ and BD26++ for Ghabga. Private pergolas are available for BD250++.

Call 17 580-000.

100 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dininginramadan LANTERNS

Sun-down Celebrations

One of the Kingdom’s best-loved franchises invites you to spice up your Iftar this Ramadan with a sumptuous selection of fare.

The flavours of the Indian sub-continent have travelled far and wide, drawing acclaim from all over the world thanks to amazing aromas and sensational variety. With its eccentric decor

and informal ambience, Lanterns adds a touch of fun to fine dining.

Located across five locations — Budaiya, Adliya, Durrat Al Bahrain, Juffair and Riffa — this restaurant chain comprises some of the most creative eateries in the Kingdom. This Ramadan, Lanterns invites you to indulge in a lavish ‘maharaja-style’ Iftar where you can

sample a wide range of sub-continental delicacies in an elaborate buffet.

The menu consists of four types of starters including soups and grills, which are served on the table in a small barbecue apparatus.

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

For the main course, you are spoiled for choice with 10 delicious preparations. Chicken makhni and mutton rogan josh, some of the most popular dishes on the menu, are a musttry. You can end your meal with an array of sweet treats, displayed on the dessert trolley.

Sample these delights of Indian cuisine for exceptional value for money.

Iftar buffet at the Budaiya branch is priced at BD5.9 and at Adliya and Riffa branches BD6.9.

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

bystander

Abdulrahman & Yaqoob

Jihan & Cynthia

Volker & Ila

Nimfa & Ila

Maher & Stephanie

Fatema & Momen

Cocktail Party The K Hotel held a cocktail party for corporates and media at Kenza restaurant.

Yousif, Bilal, Volker, Hussain & Abdulaziz

Bilal with the Red House Marketing Team

102 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

SKAL AGM SKAL Bahrain held its annual general meeting followed by a layman’s lunch at Gulf Hotel’s Zahle restaurant.

Members of SKAL

Delmon Hotel Kitchen Launch The Delmon International Hotel opened its newly renovated kitchen. The event was made possible thanks to the support of Tamkeen and Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, director of Caravan Group of Hotels, in the presence of various dignitaries.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

The kitchen team

Estella, Abi, Abi, Jayshree & Euna

Le Meridien’s party Le Meridien welcomed the summer with a ‘Sunny Nights’ poolside party for invited guests.

The band takes the stage

Rohit, Charisse & Maci

104 June 2015

George & Klaus

Gine, Lyn & Judy

Vilma, Rina, Toots & Leh

Mahmood, Lara & Mehdi

Grace & Surbita

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

RAMADAN KAREEM

COME AND BREAK THE FAST WITH HEART WHELMING FOOD OF CHEF ALI

Mike’s Surprise Birthday

‫رمضان كريم‬

Family and close friends held a birthday surprise for Mike who turned 40.

‫أفطر عىل أشهى املأكوالت املقدمه من الشيف عيل‬ IFTAR BUFFET

Kachaline, Mike, Betty & Surafel

9 BHD NET

Inclusive of beverages

Cathy & Esky

Pierric & Jamal

Hiwot, Lily, Elsa

Belle & Hilda

Betty & Sylvia

Sylvia & Rico

Loic & Shewit

Azeb & Salam

Scatt & Kathy

Sean & Solianna

Mike & Azeb

www.bahrainthismonth.com

‫ خصم عىل االطفال‬%50 ‫ عدد فردين مجا ًنا عىل كل حجز مكون من عرشة‬:‫عرض املجموعات‬ ‫أفراد‬ +97317298008 :‫لإلستعالم و الحجز‬ ‫أسعار خاصة للرشكات‬ 50% for Kids Group offer: 2 persons free for every 10 persons booking.

Inquiry: +973 1729 8008 Corporate prices available

June 2015 105

dininginramadan DIPLOMAT RADISSSON BLU

Taste of Tradition Learn to whip up a classic Iftar dish from the experts at this landmark five-star property.

Younis Ramadhan Awadh is the executive sous chef at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa and specialises in Arabic cuisine.

This Ramadan, he and his team of chefs have put together an eclectic array of dishes that you can enjoy after sunset.

Younis likes to add his own signature touch to these time-honoured recipes, ultimately achieving unique tastes and textures. You can sample a good selection of these at the Iftar buffet, every night at the hotel’s Al Fanar hall on the 14th floor.

Expect a wide variety of grills, fresh meats and catch of the day, ouzi, machbous, hot and cold mezze, traditional breads and salads. Give your meal a sweet ending with your favourite desserts like Umm Ali, baklava and a host of other decadent bites. After this you can proceed to Kontiki restaurant for a relaxed Ghabga from 9pm till 1.30am.

The Iftar buffet is priced at BD16 and Ghabga prices start from BD12.

For Eid, the hotel is planning to entertain guests with live music, a DJ and a variety of food and beverage promotions at the Pool Bar, Fiddlers pub and Kontiki restaurant.

For those who wish to try out one of his classic Iftar dishes, Younis presents this easy recipe.

Executive sous chef Younis Ramadhan Awadh

PRAWN AND BABY HAMMOUR JAREESH Ingredients 250g baby hammour (whole) 8 prawns 150g jareesh 20g green capsicum 20g red capsicum 20g yellow capsicum

10g coriander leaves 15g cherry tomatoes 1/2tbsp curry powder 1tbsp tomato paste 20ml vegetable oil 200ml water

Method • Toast the jareesh in a frying pan without oil till the skin splits from the seed. Clean it and keep it aside.

• Cut the onion, capsicums into 1cm squares, slice the cherry tomatoes in half and chop the coriander.

• Heat the vegetable oil in a deep cooking pan. Add the onion and, when it turns golden, add the capsicum pieces.

• After cooking for three minutes add curry powder and tomato paste.

• Add the cherry tomatoes, coriander and seafood and mix well.

• Add salt and pepper.

• Pour water and let it boil for 10 to 15 minutes. Take out half the ingredients with a strainer and keep aside.

• Add the jareesh seeds to the boiling water and let the mix simmer until water dries out.

• To serve, put the dry mixture in a tray and add the rest of the (strained) items on top. Garnish with chopped coriander.

106 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

IFTAR Come together with family and friends throughout the Holy month of Ramadan and enjoy our delicious traditional Arabic Iftar dishes at Al Fanar rooftop venue. at BD16 net per person.

‫اﻹﻓﻄﺎر‬ ‫ و متﺘﻊ‬،‫اﺟﺘﻤﻊ ﻣﻊ ﻋﺎﺋﻠﺘﻚ ﻃﻮال ﺷﻬﺮ رﻣﻀﺎن اﳌﺒﺎرك‬ ‫ﺑﺈﻃﻼﻟﺔ ﻣﻤﻴﺰة ﰲ ﻗﺎﻋﺔ اﻟﻔﻨﺎر ﺣﻴﺚ أﺷﻬﻰ أﻃﺒﺎق‬ ‫ب‬.‫د‬١٦ ‫اﻹﻓﻄﺎر اﻟﺘﻘﻠﻴﺪﻳﺔ اﻟﻠﺬﻳﺬة و ذﻟﻚ ﺑﺘﻜﻠﻔﺔ‬ .‫ﻟﻠﺸﺨﺺ اﻟﻮاﺣﺪ‬

GHABGA Experience an authentic Arabian night at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Ghabga, with classic set menus and traditional Oud music. Served at Kontiki restaurant and terrace, overlooking the garden and pool.

‫اﻟﻐﺒﻘﺔ‬ ،‫اﺳﺘﻤﺘﻊ ﺑﻠﻴﻠﺘﻚ ﻣﻊ ﻏﺒﻘﺔ اﻟﺪﺑﻠﻮﻣﺎت رادﻳﺴﻮن ﺑﻠﻮ‬ ‫اﳌﻘﺪﻣﺔ ﰲ ﻣﻄﻌﻢ ﻛﻮﻧﺘﻴيك ﺑﺠﺎﻧﺐ إﻃﻼﻟﺔ ﺟﻤﻴﻠﺔ ﻋﲆ‬ ‫ﺟﺎﻧﺐ ﺣﻮض اﻟﺴﺒﺎﺣﺔ ﺣﻴﺚ ﺳﺘﻜﻮن أﺟﻮاء ﻋﺮﺑﻴﺔ‬ .‫ و أﻧﻐﺎم اﻟﻌﻮد‬،‫ﻣﻤﻴﺰة ﺗﺘﻀﻤﻦ ﻗﻮاﺋﻢ اﻟﻄﻌﺎم اﻟﺸﻬﻴﺔ‬

For reservations please call +973 39945208 Sales.diplomat@radissonblu.com

dininginramadan AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

Arabesque Splendour

Enjoy Ramdan evenings at this luxurious venue that offers a sensational selection of regional cuisine, entertainment and hospitality.

108 June 2015

Located only 20-minutes from the city, Al Areen Palace & Spa is a unique destination on the island.

During the Holy Month, as the setting sun gives you the all clear to indulge, head to this desert oasis for Iftar and Ghabga.

“This year we are putting up a traditional tent, decorated to create an ambience of Arabic decadence,” says Yasmeen Ebrahim, the PR, marketing and communications manager.

Starting from June 18, guests are invited to experience the splendour of the Wadi tent, which can accommodate up to 500 guests and has different sections for families, VIP and corporate groups.

“The tent features a classy atrium-style structure and offers panoramic views of our magnificent landscape,” adds Yasmeen.

Adding to this opulent setting, there will be a live performance by the famous Bahraini singer Nejma Abdulah, nicknamed “Kawkab Al Khaleej” with an Arabic Takht band.

The tent includes a special Bahraini corner where guests can enjoy traditional Bahraini food and sweets prepared and presented by local ladies in the traditional attire.

Al Areen Palace & Spa is home to Saffron restaurant, a venue renowned for serving authentic Khaleeji cuisine, which boasts a long list of loyal customers. Its expert chefs will put together an eclectic array of dishes that cater to both regional and international palates. There will be several live cooking stations grilling fine cuts of meat and the catch of the day, to perfection.

The Iftar buffet is priced at BD14++ during weekdays and BD16++ on Thursdays and Fridays. The Ghabga buffet is priced at BD16++ on weekdays and BD18++ on Thursdays and Fridays.

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

Popular among foreign nationals and locals alike, the venue offers a truly royal experience.

Al Areen features 78 villas, each with a private pool and traditional architecture. Each has a living room, one or more bedrooms, a dining area and Majlis around a central courtyard with a large pool and Jacuzzi.

Call 17 845-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Celebrate Ramadan under our magnificent Wadi Tent

Enjoy live performance from famous Bahraini singer Nejma Abdulah,

known as “Kawkab Al Khaleej� accompanied by an Arabian Takht Band.

Savour

an exquisite Iftar and Ghabga buffet with live cooking stations and a Bahraini corner where you can enjoy traditional Bahraini food & sweets cooked and served by Bahraini ladies in their traditional dress.

y W in dail p rizes ! l e b a l u va

Al Areen Palace & Spa Sakhir, Kingdom of Bahrain

Email: alareen@alareenpalace.com www.alareenpalace.com

Tel: +973 17845000

bystander

Mike Orlov & David

Rashed Shaheen & Joan Nicolai

Alaa & Dr Mansoor

Claire & Tom

SteppingStone Seminar SteppingStone Global delivered a seminar on ‘Engage, Empower, Enable and Enrich colleagues’ Lives’, at the Capital Club.

Jean Nicolai of Stepping Stone

Mustafa & Ayman

Stephen & Khalid

Marjan & Khandan

Melissa & Sheela

Waleed & Baraa

Rasha & Hana

Jamie & Jason

David & Waleed

Ella’s London Exhibition Bahrain-based Indian artist Ella Prakash held a solo exhibition called Alleviation, at the Debut Contemporary London, UK.

Jennifer & Soni

Samir & Ella

Catherine, Samuel, Ella, Soni & Samir

110 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Experience The Grandeur Of Delmon International Hotel

Al Hamra restaurant will be celebrating a Biryani & Kebab Festival from June 3 to June 28 Introducing new daily vegetarian thali dishes at Al Hamra Restaurant for lunch from June 5

FOR RESERVATIONS PLEASE CONTACT

Tel: 17224000, Fax: 17224107, Mobile: 34067052 Email: delmonbn@batelco.com.bh Website: www.delmonhotel.com

dininginramadan

THE K HOTEL

A Rewarding Treat Ramadan is all about celebrating togetherness and what better way to do that than to be surrounded by loved ones and savour your favourite traditional dishes?

112 June 2015

A long day of fasting meets a befitting conclusion at this venue with a variety of authentic regional treats.

The Klouds Restaurant, at Juffair’s The K Hotel, offers a lavish Iftar buffet comprising of traditional dishes alongside Ramadan delicacies from across the region.

Tabouleh, hammour, machbous, chicken molokhia, lamb tagine, koftabil laban and Bahrani ouzi are just some of the treats on offer. The dessert bar is packed with plenty of items to tantalise your taste buds with sweet sensations and provide a fitting end to your meal. Choose from, or try all, the delicacies including Um Ali, assorted baklava, kunafa and kallaj Ramadan.

The Iftar buffet is priced at BD9++ per person; kids from six to 12 years dine at half price and those aged five and under eat for free.

Enjoy a Ramadan Ghabga under the stars with a traditional menu and Lebanese cuisine till the early hours of the morning. Guests can also enjoy a range of sheesha flavours and live Arabic music.

The hotel offers a special corporate rate, as well

as an outdoor catering service for all occasions.

In addition to presenting a delicious spread at Klouds, The K Hotel can also organise a customised Iftar or Ghabga party at your home or a venue of your choice. “The hotel will take care of all aspects of the event right from planning to sourcing and execution,” says Sylvester Rozario, executive chef at The K Hotel.

“We are proud of our trained operations team of events and food and beverage professionals, who have successfully executed small intimate gatherings to lavish banquets of more than a few hundred people.” With the professionals taking care of food, decor and service, you can focus on the guests and enjoy the evening with them.

The hotel celebrates the end of the Holy Month in style as well. Enjoy the Eid Brunch on the second day of the holidays. It is priced at BD14.5++, which includes soft drinks, and at BD19.5++ inclusive of selected beverages.

Call 17 360-000 or email banquet@thekhotel.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Other Events

Azadea Group held a charity event at the Bahrain Red Crescent society in the presence of Abdul Wahab Al Hawaj and Ralph Hayek, operations manager.

Savings and pensions provider Takaud held a press conference at The Capital Club to launch a new wealth management programme.

Bahrain Institute of Hospitality & Retail hosted motivational speaker Les Hewitt at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

Samsung Electronics in co-operation with Techno Blue launched some of its home appliances during an event held at the Regency Plaza.

Nissan Bahrain and Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons announced their sponsorship of Amal Al Saffar on her journey to the Arctic Circle.

Fraser Suites Seef received the World Travel Awards Middle East title of Bahrain’s Leading Serviced Apartments.

My Cafe held a business lunch for members of the media

A new loyalty rewards programme was launched by Viva for its customers in the presence of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Manchester United legend and Ulyaiyan Al Wetaid, CEO, Viva Bahrain.

The Rotary Club of Adliya staged a charity fund raising cricket tournament

Management and staff of Fraser Suites Seef celebrated Fraser Hospitality’s 17th Anniversary and Fraser Day.

114 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dininginramadan MY CAFE

My Ramadan There is a wide variety of Iftar options from which to choose this Ramadan. However, if you’re looking for five-star delicacies served in an informal setting, this could be the place for you.

The latest addition to Adliya’s culinary district, My Cafe, is already giving the neighbouring restaurants a run for their money. It is a boutique café located in Block 338 and serves gourmet meals and beverages in its plush yet casual setting.

Break your fast with a variety of premium preparations from a special Ramadan menu. On offer is an enticing selection of dishes that give a contemporary twist to your festive favourites.

“We are looking forward to a great Ramadan and are excited to serve our Iftar selection,” says Alessio Vanini, director of operations at My Cafe.

“We are extremely proud of our food that is completely made in-house from scratch, using the freshest, most prime quality ingredients.”

Expect to see an eclectic selection of beverages on the menu as well including fresh juices and a variety of teas and coffees.

The decor is an extension of owner Sawsan Baluch’s own house; it is tastefully designed and instantly makes you feel at home and comfortable. The chic café is spread across two floors with an airconditioned smoking lounge upstairs; this area can also be hired for private parties.

My Cafe will be open from 7pm to 2am during the Holy Month. There is also ample parking space available.

Call 77 344-444.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2015 115

dininginramadan

SEVEN LEISURE

Ramadan by the Sea Break your fast in a tranquil setting by the sea for the ultimate Ramadan experience.

116 June 2015

Every year Coral Bay proudly hosts one of the island’s most delightful and joyous events, Ramadan

By The Sea, at its Rayes Restaurant, offers a delightful setting coupled with some of the best Arabic fare on the island.

Whether you are a Muslim breaking the day-long fast or just someone who wants to join in with the family atmosphere during this special time, Coral Bay’s Ramadan celebration makes for a wonderful gathering for family and friends. All the excitement of great food, culture and entertainment is mixed together to give everyone the best Ramadan experience possible.

Coral Bay, a waterfront venue with its own private beach, has been at the centre of the Kingdom’s Ramadan celebrations for many years. The venue offers fabulous views of the nearby harbour with Muharraq and Hidd on the horizon. And the location is ideal for those travelling to Iftar straight from work being on the Al Fateh Corniche close to the main business centres as well as all the major landmarks and hotels in Manama and beyond.

The sumptuous Iftar on offer features a variety of dishes including traditional Ramadan favourites such as lentil soup, saj manses, falafel, shawarma, foul, different varieties of fateh, hares and many others.

Of course, Ramadan would not be the same without a sumptuous array of homemade Lebanese sweets and a selection of special drinks such as tamar

hindi, qamar al dine, rosewater sahlab and fresh ayran yogurt.

Offering both Iftar and Ghabga, the venue is sumptuously decorated in traditional style. Expect entertainment from a live oud player as well as the traditional Ramadan shisha and the setting, right beside the water, makes for a second-to-none atmosphere to make the most of the evenings.

Prices start at BD12++ for the Iftar buffet from Sunday to Thursday, including unlimited Ramadan drinks, and BD14++ on Fridays and Saturdays.

Ghabga buffet costs BD12++ Saturday to Wednesday and BD14++ on Thursday and Friday.

Call 17 312-700. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Showroom: Tel. 17408139 / 38389260 kitchens@yyfakhro.com sujith@yyfakhro.com www.yyfakhro.com

Urban Meets Sporty Inspired by the colourful contrast piping of Reebok’s apparel and footwear, the Icon line introduces a first in the watch industry – Icon Rush Chrono. Taking its design cues from big city lights, this elegant everyday men’s watch has a sporty edge to it. In addition to the sideline, the Icon Rush also has crisp white lines on the midnight blue silicone strap and midnight blue lines on the bright white dial with the signature Dropped R. Water resistant up to 50 metres, the chronograph with minute and second, stopwatch and 24 hours time, highlights the sporty look further.

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

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

New Youth Ritual As summer approaches, the native cells of the almond tree trigger bud renewal. The L’occitane Laboratory has taken the regenerative power of these native cells to create a new exclusive youth complex, which acts on five signs of aging on the body - dryness, skin slackening, lack of tone, fine lines and skin irregularities. Indulge in a new youth ritual for the body with a Velvet Serum that helps even out the skin and reveal its youthfulness and a Velvet Balm that provides an immediate sensation of comfort.

Available at L’Occitane in Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

Summer Trends Pull&Bear’s new collection for women, Pacific Girls, is inspired by the spirit of California’s seaside, aimed at young, adventurous, bohemian girls who enjoy dressing comfortably.

It has a strong identity defined by the colour palette - soft, low-saturation tones, with maroon, blue and beige standing out. Pull&Bear’s new capsule collection for men, Daily Standards, is a reinterpretation of classic patterns, with garments that are extremely comfortable and easily matched together. Looks are casual and simple, with a discreet trendy touch. The colour range of soft tones includes navy, dark brown, blue, white, grey and washed red, with light green and blue making an appearance too.

Available at City Centre Bahrain.

Creative Appliances

Lakeland, the home of creative kitchenware, has introduced a fantastic new bake ware range alongside its thousands of innovative products and ideas for your kitchen and home.

The UK's leading stylish and innovative kitchen accessories brand has over 4,000 products in its range with new items brought in every year.

Lakeland’s products make everyday life easier and more enjoyable, whether it's cooking, entertaining, doing housework or searching for the perfect present. The kitchen tools are some of the most loved across the world and offer everything to help you prepare, serve and store food.

Available at Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Unique Collections Your home should reflect who you are. Express your individual style and make your home stand out with Artikel, Bahrain’s most unique and charming home store. The shop offers a plethora of choices to channel your creativity and make your home one-of-a-kind. Artikel has an unrivalled selection of merchandise, offering a wide range of products, variety and exclusivity including unique collections of household items, home and garden furniture, kitchen and bedroom accessories, chinaware, flowers, glassware and lamps of the finest quality.

Available at the Jawad Dome in Budaiya.

June 2015 119

marketplace YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Safe and Sound Access controls For your home or business, it is advised to invest in the automatic entrance gate system, which will meet all your needs in terms of aesthetics, security, convenience of use and long-term reliability. The options include sliding gates, swing gates and remote control access systems.

Customers can benefit from new-generation turnstiles as well, which provide dependable access control even in unsupervised locations. Solutions for workforce management, time and attendance, access control and job costing applications are other time attendance services provided.

Audio visual

Speakers and amplifiers Access controls

Audio-visual products YBYF blends the latest in display distribution and control technology to provide the best possible audiovisual experience. Providing everything from dynamic presentation set-ups to cutting-edge security options and touch screen automation, this company acts as a complete source of technology for any business.

CCTV security CCTV security systems installed in public places or retail markets can deter crime, provide the police with leads, help citizens feel safer and improve the economy of a crime-stricken area. The digital surveillance solutions offered by YBYF are designed for a wide range of scenarios, including retail, education, banking, gaming, government, healthcare, hotel and leisure, and transport uses.

Digital signage and video wall YBYF creates, manages and distributes online content.

CCTV Camera

Fire alarms Fire protection products and systems help you ensure your future. A number of system configurations and solutions are available to meet your specific needs.

Door-lock quantum

With continuous technological advancements, there is good reason to look into additional security for your homes and businesses.

120 June 2015

If you’re investing in Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro’s (YBYF) innovative and high-tech line of security services, you’ve made a smart decision to protect your people, business and future.

Among the many products on offer, the company provides on-site equipment repairs, workshop repair services, fully trained and qualified mobile engineers, technical help desk service and equipment loan replacement service.

Hospitality solutions Perfect for hotels, room management systems are offered by YBYF in the form of customised lighting and room control, which are installed according to each client’s specifications.

Guest room management systems ensure maximum user friendliness and cost-effectiveness. The hospitality industry can benefit from the company’s state-of-the-art electronic locks.

Call 17 408-111. www.bahrainthismonth.com

AL GHALIA

Tranquility at Dessange Discover a package to sooth and cleanse the body for relaxing rejuvination.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Holy Month of Ramadan is a month of fasting, not merely physical fasting but a total commitment of our body and soul to the spirit of the fast.

It is a time of inward reflection and for understanding the true value of patience, tolerance, will and perseverance. Ramadan is a time to cleanse the body and soul from impurities and re-focus.

This Ramadan, Dessange is featuring a package that includes its authentic Moroccan Hammam; a bodyscrub using an exclusive range of oils, herbs and black soap.

As you settle in the steam-filled room, a black olive soap is applied all over and is left on for some time.

The soap, along with steam, helps to open the pores and prepares the body for the exfoliation. Using a kassa glove, the attendant then starts scrubbing, which goes on for about 10-15 minutes. You can bring your own kassa glove or purchase one on arrival.

After this, a clay pack is applied all over that gets absorbed deep into the skin, further nourishing and moisturising it. Once washed off, rose-scented cold water is splashed on the body to close the pores, leaving the skin looking radiant and smooth.

Next, experience the unique Dessange Shampoo Bar where a beauty mask of coloured clay, essential oils and shampoo are specially prepared for your hair. Relax while the skilled technicians soothe

away your tension with a calming head massage and then expertly blow-dry your hair to the perfect style for you.

Offering state-of-the-art treatments and services in a luxurious setting, Dessange endeavours to deliver the best in health, wellness and beauty; bringing you the latest services and products for your beauty and wellbeing needs. Be it skin or hair care, make-up, exercise, nutrition or spa rituals, the specialised services of Dessange are designed to relax and rejuvenate you.

Discover a tranquil experience this Ramadan at Dessange that will give you peace of mind, body and soul. Ramadan Kareem!

Call 17 713-999.

June 2015 121

marketplace

LOST PARADISE OF DILMUN WATERPARK

World-class Fun This Summer!

Staff at the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark underwent a comprehensive training programme to improve their safety skills in preparation for the summer.

122 June 2015

The team was put through its paces during four days of the International Lifeguard Training Programme (ILTP), an Ellis & Associates programme that meets the water safety needs of all clients and is retained by 90 per cent of all US waterparks, as well as the major UAE waterparks and major international hotel chains.

Conducted by an internationally-accredited Ellis & Associates trainer, the course included different categories such as shallow lifeguards, attraction lifeguards and special facilities lifeguards for wave pools and open water environments. It also delivered relevant training such as first aid, CPR, emergency oxygen support and automated external defibrillation.

“Our goal is to always make sure that our guests enjoy our facilities to the maximum. We owe it to visitors at our waterpark to ensure they will not only have fun, but feel safe and secure in all our facilities,” says Esmail Ebrahim, operations manager.

“I am also proud to say that within a period of four days, with actual simulations and intense training, our team was able to pass the exams with flying colours, making the team fully certified and internationally recognised lifeguards.”

Adding another feather to it’s cap, Lost Paradise was also recently honoured for the the second time with a Certificate of Excellence Award from Trip Advisor.

The world’s largest travel site, Trip Advisor recognises the achievements of worldwide attractions. The award is a direct result of Lost Paradise of Dilmun’s consistently great reviews from travellers and guests.

This impressive accolade not only reinforces the waterpark’s position as a leading family leisure and tourism destination – it reassures visitors they’re in safe hands with every visit.

Call 17 845-100, 33 934-790, 33 336-826 or 33 488-499. www.bahrainthismonth.com

MARAFIE CLINIC

Wide Range of Treatments When it comes to caring for patients, Marafie Clinic stands head and shoulders above other cosmetic centres in Bahrain thanks to Dr Hannane Marafie’s warm and hands-on approach.

As your body’s largest organ, your skin is vitally important and proper skin care is not only about looking good, it’s about staying healthy.

“For us, a patient is a human being first, not just a customer. We take special interest in every patient because every case is unique. Similarly, our staff members are trained to be attentive healers, who help patients relax with their kindness and gentle attention,” Marafie says.

Marafie Clinic treats all manner of skin diseases with modern equipment and the latest technology. The clinic provides laser treatment for pigmentation, hair removal, broken veins and wrinkles. It offers mesotherapy for treating hair loss, cellulite and wrinkles.

The process of removing unwanted hair is simple. Hair is removed from the body using a long -pulse laser which works by disabling hairs that are in their active growth cycle at different times, it can take more than 12 sessions to disable all the follicles in a given area.

Following the success of her Sanabis clinic, Dr Marafie opened the Busaiteen branch, which has been popular among GCC patients. With the wellbeing of her patients foremost on her mind, Dr Marafie goes to great lengths to ensure that they experience painless treatment.

“Our Botox injections are administered with microneedles, causing

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dr Hannane Marafie

minimum sensation. We’re the only clinic in Bahrain to offer mesotherapy without injections. Our resurfacing and laser treatments are entirely painless. We want the patient to go home happy, without suffering,” she says.

Call 17 585-373 or 17 333-071.

June 2015 123

marketplace BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Dedicated to Your Health A new branch of Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH) has opened offering top-class health care to those living in Riffa The latest addition to the BSH family, Bahrain Specialist Hospital Clinic Riffa, held its official opening on May 4 under the patronage of HE Shaikh Abdullah Bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Southern Governor, and in the presence of His Excellency, Sadiq Al Shehabi, the Minister of Health.

The official opening was attended by Dr Bahaa Fateha, CEO of the National Health Regulatory Authority, distinguished guests from the community, healthcare field and shareholders.

Hamid Rashid Al Zayani, the hospital’s vice chairman and managing delivered a speech outlining and emphasising the role of the private sector in delivering high quality healthcare and the importance for BSH of this first step in extending its services outside the main hospital in Juffair.

Hospital CEO Dr Kasim Ardati outlined the services provided at the Riffa Clinic which offers various clinical departments supported by laboratory, radiology, pharmacy and physical therapy services.

BSH chairman Sheikh Abdul Rahman Ali Al Turki invited he distinguished guests to tour the facility and Dr Ardati explained the facilities prior to the ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially declare the clinic open.

A hospital spokesman says: “With the opening of the Bahrain

Specialist Hospital Clinic in the prime location in West Riffa in the Southern Governorate which is easily accessible to the society in and around the area and has ample parking, Bahrain Specialist Hospital Clinic assures the continuous best medical healthcare in the region which is emphasised by our motto ‘Dedicated to Your Health’. “

MTGRUP MT group

124 June 2015

Ramli Mall porcelain - kitchen

A Ali

www.bahrainthismonth.com

K HOME & KITCHEN

Culinary Solutions K Home & Kitchen is the catering industry’s first port of call for all its needs.

Established in Bahrain for more than two decades, K Home & Kitchen is the industry’s professional solution partner in streamlining the most time-consuming aspect of selecting products for hotels, restaurants and caterers.

The company provides a wide-range of product lines such as chinaware, glassware, cutlery, buffet equipment, kitchenware, linens, shelving, furniture, kitchen equipment and much more.

Constantly updating its stock and offerings, K Home & Kitchen prides itself on providing the latest in premium quality products with staff regularly travelling the world and attending exhibitons to source the latest kitchen equipment innovations. Everything needed to equip a first-class kitchen, whether commercial or domestic, can be found in its extensive showroom at Exhibition Road.

Some of the leading brands on offer include Churchill, Rosenthal, Sambonet, Paderno,

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Arthur Krupp, Zieher, Libbey, Cambro, Sola and Luigi Bormioli and many more.

K Home & Kitchen has become a key player in the industry and strives to provide good quality service to customers with well-trained, knowledgeable staff always on hand to make recommendations and offer detailed information about the huge range of products available.

Call 17 296-363.

June 2015 125

marketplace

Matthias Hellweg

RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

Fresh Beginnings Ramada Bahrain’s new general manager talks about the landmark property and his plans for it in the coming months.

126 June 2015

Ramada Hotel Bahrain, located just in front of Adliya’s café and boutique restaurant district, has enjoyed a loyal customer base of oversees travellers and locals alike for many years. The hotel started a refurbishment project a few months back and spearheading the operation is Matthias Hellweg, the hotel’s newly-appointed general manager.

An industry veteran, Matthias has worked across Europe and the GCC for 26 years and brings his wealth of experience to Ramada Hotel Bahrain.

“I was honoured to get my first offer as a general manager with Ramada Bahrain and I’m thrilled to be here,” says Matthias. “I’ve been in the region since 1998 but Bahrain is special as it is a truly modern, advanced and inclusive society where people have a welcoming and friendly attitude. I’m so happy about my choice.”

He began his career in 1989 at the InterContinental Berlin and remembers his time there fondly. “It was a great foundation for my career as I worked during my apprenticeship in all areas of the hotel and I believe we got the best possible training at that time,” he says.

“For Ramada Bahrain, my mission is to deliver first-

class hospitality and to exceed guest’s expectations,” he adds.

Despite the renovation work currently taking place, Matthias assures guests that the hotel is operating with minimum disturbance and to the high standard it is known for. “After our new lobby, the next order of business is revamping the guest rooms and giving a facelift to the façade which will start with the beginning of Ramdan,” he says.

The hotel also plans to continue attracting guests with special offers on extended stays for families during the summer. “Our guests will enjoy the fresh look of our rooms as well as the new furniture at our swimming pool deck,” Matthias adds.

Fully aware of the fierce competition in the hospitality sector in the Kingdom, Matthias believes that is what keeps the job interesting. “The challenge is to improve the operation of the hotel in all aspects in order to deliver a memorable guest experience. The gratifying part is when you see happy faces around you, be it the guests or the staff,” he says.

Call 17 296-660. www.bahrainthismonth.com

JUNAID PERFUMES

A Scented Tradition People have been using incense for centuries to create a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere for their homes and surroundings and this tradition continues even today.

In most Middle Eastern countries, it is customary to light ‘bukhoor’, a traditional incense, to perfume one’s house and clothing with the rich thick smoke. Not only is it a welcoming gesture for guests but it is also a great way to awaken your mind and body.

Enter a world of rich exotic aromas as Junaid Perfumes, one of the leading perfumers in the region, launches its all new premium quality incense Bakhoor Al Khaleej.

This uniquely attractive, long lasting incense diffuses gently in the atmosphere releasing an exceptional blend of sweet woody amber combined with authentic earthy oud as well as the bittersweet, soft and intimate saffron, providing a sophisticated ambiance.

“We, at Junaid Perfumes, take pride in maintaining our authentic customs and traditions by creating the best quality of incense and perfumes,” says Junaid Perfumes marketing director Fahad Jaweed Junaid.

“Bakhoor Al Khaleej is made up of a combination of superior and original notes including amber, oud and saffron where their mixture can create a long lasting charming ambiance around your majlis or your favourite relaxing spots.”

Established in 1910, Junaid Perfumes is one of the oldest perfumers in the GCC and has significantly grown in reputation and stature over the years. Today the company operates over 150 exclusive retail outlets in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Lebanon, Turkey, Syria and many other countries worldwide.

Call 17 737-007. www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2015 127

marketplace AMA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Diversity in Learning

Over 10 years this school has gone from offering preschool and primary classes to a respected international institution taking pupils up to 18 years and teaching in three languages.

128 June 2015

AMA International School is a private school which was established in September 2004 by highly motivated educational enthusiasts with the aim of providing a high standard of education to children of various nationalities.

The school offers a fully-equipped study environment with effective and competent staff and teachers who are committed to nurture, encourage and inspire young minds.

AMA started with a programme for preschool and primary levels offering up-to-date educational methodologies which consistently maintained quality education. Over the years, further levels have been added and the school now caters for young learners between the ages of three and 18.

It is recognised by the Ministry of Education, Kingdom of Bahrain and is accepted regionally and internationally.

Instructions in English, Arabic and French are provided to students from pre-kindergarten to Grade 12 and the school’s main objective is to enhance learning with international standards to students of diverse nationalities.

Students’ harmonious co-existence facilitates the school in promoting valuable international understanding by providing young learners with opportunities to reciprocally share universally suitable ideas, cultural norms, customs and beliefs thereby developing a sense of unity among them.

The modern concept of education in promoting learning is incorporated into instructional practices and strategies with programmes which are designed with the aim of developing knowledge, skills, positive manners and potentials in each child. The inculcation of social and moral values among the students is also

one of the essential objectives of the school as part of their preparation to become citizens of the world with strong potential personalities.

AMA International School offers American Curriculum standards with the integration of Great Exploration in Mathematics and Science (GEMS). This is supported by a huge range of co-curricular activities that ensure students have the opportunity to develop fully as individuals.

In 2011, robotics became part of the teaching instructions particularly in IT subjects. The following year, AMAISB became an “IB WORLD SCHOOL” duly accredited by the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) to offer the IB Diploma Programme for Higher Secondary Students. At present, the school is offering the IGCSE curriculum and is a testing centre for the renowned Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace George Clooney at the Houston event honouring Omega’s continuing commitment to space exploration

Four new designs added to the Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon series

BAHRAIN JEWELLERY CENTRE

A Space in Time “The Moonwatch” has travelled with the most courageous and spirited astronauts in history. Its renowned watchmaker is introducing a new generation of these classic timepieces for 2015!

The Speedmaster White Side of the Moon

130 June 2015

Omega has been renowned for its enduring spirit of exploration since the first time man landed on the moon. In 1969, the world witnessed one of mankind’s most remarkable achievements, as the first humans stepped onto the surface of the moon. With Omega Speedmaster watches strapped to their wrists, this pioneering moment not only created history for the world but also for the revolutionary watch brand.

Last month, a stellar event was hosted in Houston, Texas to honour Omega’s continuing commitment to space exploration, which saw Hollywood actor George Clooney joining a host of legendary astronauts to celebrate Omega’s dedication to space travel and its history as the first watch worn on the moon.

When astronauts chose the Speedmaster as their personal watch in 1962, it prompted the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to seek out a highly durable and accurate chronograph for all manned missions. After surviving rigorous and extreme testing, the Speedmaster was declared “flight qualified” for the boldest expeditions. It became an instant icon and became known as “The Moonwatch” when it travelled together with the most courageous astronauts in history. It has accompanied astronauts on all six lunar landings, cementing an indestructible bond between Omega and space flight.

Omega has been at the forefront of lunar discovery, serving the mission with ingenuity and precision and it continues to be driven by its commitment to innovation as it introduces a new generation of Speedmaster watches for 2015. Maintaining the same spirit that launched The Moonwatch into history, this year’s collection includes a new Speedmaster ‘57, the Apollo 13 Silver Snoopy Award and the radiant White

Side of the Moon, inspired by the lunar glow that is seen from Earth.

Four new designs have also been added to the Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon series: Black Black, Sedna Black, Pitch Black and Vintage Black.

The Speedmaster White Side of the Moon is an eyecatching chronograph and third in Omega’s selection of solid ceramic timepieces. The white zirconium oxide ceramic dial is complemented by a brushed and polished 44.25mm ceramic casebody. The box-form scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, treated with an anti-reflective coating on both sides, protects the dial with its 18K white gold Moonwatch-style hands and applied indexes. The central chronograph seconds hand is rhodium-plated and stands out with a red tip.

It is presented on a white leather strap with a white foldover clasp with grade 5 titanium frame-spring folders — the special ceramic clasp distinguishing this model from its siblings.

The all-black, ceramic Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon was inspired by the adventures and accomplishments of the Apollo 8 astronauts. The mystique of the Earth’s nightlight and its everchanging yet constant presence spurred the creation of four new timepieces that are added to the collection, each with its own distinctive features.

These unique styles are further proof that Omega is constantly discovering new frontiers of design and technology.

These watch collections are available at Omega Boutiques and Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

Call Bahrain Jewellery Centre, Moda Mall on 17 520-053 or visit www.bjc.com.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ROCHE BOBOIS

A Stylish Collaboration Roche Bobois, a French retailer of top-end furniture, has revealed an ultra-glamorous collection celebrating the love story between fashion and interior design.

Since 2010, Roche Bobois has had a unique rapport with iconic designer Jean Paul Gaultier, collaborating to create collections of both furniture and exclusive fabrics. This partnership

is testament to the close relationship between fashion and interior design.

This merging of Jean Paul Gaultier’s creative and original style with the skilled craftsmanship of Roche Bobois has allowed for the creation of designs that are as inventive as they are beautiful, the company says.

The distinctive vision of the famed French designer along with Roche Bobois’ expertise have

given life to a poetic and sophisticated collection.

“Fashion and interior design have long shared an affinity, valuing above all beauty, boldness and dynamism as well as fine craftsmanship and an eye for detail,” says Gilles Bonan, CEO of Roche Bobois.

“For Roche Bobois to once again support Jean Paul Gaultier, the internationally acclaimed French artist, is a logical partnership.”

Commenting on the partnership, Jean Paul Gaultier says: “Designing furniture for Roche Bobois has been an exciting adventure for me. I only know how to dress, so I dressed the furniture and the added advantage is that it doesn’t complain if you accidentally jab it with a pin!”

Today, Roche Bobois has a presence in almost 50 countries, including Bahrain, with more than 250 showrooms established across the globe. The brand continues to grow with an average of one new showroom opening per month.

With Roche Bobois continuing to spread its distinctive French aesthetic around the world, the brand’s international presence has never been stronger.

Visit www.roche-bobois.com.

bystander

HE Joonha Yu, Korean Ambassador, Meeji & HE Kiyoshi Asako, Japanese Ambassador

Lebanese Embassy Festival

Moroccan Musical Night

The Lebanese Embassy held a beverage tasting festival at its venue for invited guests.

Moroccan cultural heritage was showcased during a musical night ‘Creation & Rhythm’ featuring Moroccan singer Dounia Batma. The event was hosted by the Moroccan Embassy at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa.

Ebrahim Assaf, Lebanese Chargé d’Affairs

Joseph & Akram

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Rodolph, Carla & Taher

Nasreen & Noora

Cultural entertainment

Abdulla

Ali & Afaf

Ratna & HE Chilman Arisman, Indonesian Ambassador

June 2015 131

marketplace THE WATCH BOUTIQUE

Time is Precious

19Fortis

The Watch Boutique has unveiled a new collection of signature timepieces that celebrate designs of the past and their modern renditions.

2π

132 June 2015

Orchestra

The Watch Boutique brings historic tradition in exclusive proportions with brands that have roots etched deeply in the history of watchmaking.

“In our current endeavour we are the first in the world to be displaying and stocking the new Terrestis Collection of the prestigious Swiss brand Fortis, which was recently launched at the Baselworld 2015 event,” the company says.

Fortis is compiling history with this collection and, simultaneously, completing its beautifully recompiled collection.

The new Terrestis models pay homage to the early years of Fortis’ pioneering work, the 1930s and 1940s.

It was a time where technology was developing so rapidly that Fortis had to set new standards in aviation watches and redefine the term ‘functionality’. One of Fortis’ strengths has always been to keep up with technical achievements and put them to use in its classic collections. By combining elegance, state-ofthe-art technology and functionality, the results have been timepieces that have become milestones in watchmaking history.

“We give the adventure-seeking gentleman an instrument suitable for every event, from the racetrack to a black tie party,” says Fortis CEO Maximilian Spitzy.

The Tycoon is the flagship of the new collection. The slim yet bold case is the leading characteristic of this timeless classic and the bicolour casing is the embodiment and proof that elegance and functionality are no contradiction.

The domed sapphire crystal and dial work in harmony with the metal feuille hands in both rosegold and metallic-blue. The glass case-back with its new six-screw bolted system provides a glance into

Tycoon

the watch’s heart.

The Tycoon comes in two versions, chronograph and three-hand model. Each version is available with either a silver-opaline dial or an anthracite dial.

Inspired by the timepieces of the 1940s, the 19Fortis looks back to the glamour and confidence of that era.

The 19Fortis boasts a duality, reflected in the subtlety of its Arabic numbers counting the seconds, and bold rose-gold Roman numerals marking the hours. The pleated texturing of the dial and the gold raised indices are reminiscent of a sharp, pressed tuxedo shirt. Despite its nostalgic look, the 19Fortis is a true masterpiece for today’s gentleman.

Another highlight is the Orchestra, a harmonious timepiece consisting of soft, smooth curves and precise edges. Details like the dome’s sapphire crystal, domed dial, drop-shaped lug and new crown result in a discretely elegant tone. The rose-gold indices and hands emphasise the classic attitude of this timepiece, its makers say.

Meanwhile, conceptual artist and designer Rolf Sachs has created another limited art edition watch for Fortis. Pi is a mathematical constant, seen everywhere in our daily lives. It exists in the shape of our eye or the ripples of a splashing raindrop. This remarkable timepiece has a 42mm case coated in black PVD. The white dial is fully covered in white SuperLuminova and, together with colourful drawings, this watch is a perfectly balanced and highly functional piece of art. The 2π of the 2015 Terrestis Collection is a limited edition of 150 pieces worldwide.

The collection of the Terrestis line of Fortis watches and other lines of the brand are available at The Watch Boutique, Seef Mall, Seef District. www.bahrainthismonth.com

JOZ SALON & SPA

Get Poker-Straight Hair the Brazilian hair straightening treatment. It is also known by several other names, such as Brazilian keratin hair straightening treatment, Brazilian blow out and keratin straightening.

Matrix Opti Smooth Hair Smoothing Service The best straightening/rebonding treatment for perfectly straight hair, Matrix makes the choice easy for you. For smoother, straighter hair that doesn’t look artificially made up, try the Matrix Opti Smooth hair straightening treatment. Its key benefits include naturally moisturised and conditioned hair; curl reduction, frizz and volume control; straighter, smoother hair that always looks natural; 100 per cent safe and formaldehyde free, resulting in permanent straight hair that lasts.

With so many treatments and products available in the market to straighten hair, it’s important that you choose the right one to get those silky smooth locks.

Generations of women have been testing all sorts of hair care products for long, straight, silky tresses.

Besides straightening irons, various chemical applications such as keratin hair treatment and others have also been introduced to straighten hair. Joz Salon & Spa takes a look at different ways you can straighten those curly locks.

X-tenso Moisturist It transforms rebellious, curly or frizzy hair to smooth, beautifully silky and shiny hair for up to 60 days. It creates a straighter smooth ‘natural looking’ finish, giving you that Brazilian straightening look.

Let’s face it. Thick, unruly and frizzy hair does not look good. But spending a better part of the morning straightening your hair with a flat iron is timeconsuming. Straightening hair permanently, especially extremely curly or wavy hair, makes it easier to style.

Straightening hair reduces frizz, while enhancing the shine and gloss of the hair. It is also useful in reducing the volume of very thick hair. Straightened hair remains smooth, is easy to untangle and does not need to be blow dried or set frequently. Chemical hair straightening is a long procedure but the results are well worth the time and effort.

Consult your stylist at Joz Salon & Spa. Call Call Amwaj branch on 16 031-120, Awali branch on 17 756-449 and Juffair branch on 17 369-133.

Opti.Straight Its multi-ionic technology makes hair soft and shiny and it can be used for perming or straightening.

Available in normal and resistant strengths, the Asian tea fragrance makes for a more pleasant experience.

Brazilian Hair Straightening Treatment Curly, frizzy hair is no doubt difficult to manage.

People are often not able to take proper care of unruly hair and end up drying it and making it even rougher. Fortunately, we live in an age where technology has a solution for everything. The technique that has been developed to relieve the discomfort of people with an unmanageable mane is www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2015 133

marketplace

GENPRISE

Unparalle-LED Lighting With advancements in technology, lighting has come a long way and light-emitting diode (LED) has become the leading light source for a brighter and greener future.

134 June 2015

When LED lighting was introduced almost 15 years ago, it was doubtful if the technology would last. As with all new technologies, at that time LEDs were very expensive and dubbed impractical. But with time and significant advancements in technology, coupled with fierce competition between manufacturers across the globe, LED technology has taken the world by storm as demands rise to an all time high.

Genprise, one of Bahrain’s leading electrical and lighting solution providers, continues to lead the way towards a future lit by energy-efficient LEDs. The company has supplied and worked alongside consultants, contractors, government ministries and project developers across the Kingdom for over 13 years and is still investing in new and innovative products displaying the pinnacle of current technology.

Genprise aims to inform and educate its clients about how LED technology can enhance their lives, reduce costs and protect the environment.

Restaurants, cafés, hotels, offices and warehouses across the country are all embracing advancements in technology, with some LEDs able to provide more than 100,000 hours of light - that is nearly 11 and a half years from one LED if left on continuously, not to mention the savings that can be made. Through less maintenance and lower power consumption, LED is certainly the flavour of the month as far as lighting is concerned.

Genprise is located in the heart of Adliya, opposite

Don Vito Café, offering a huge selection of light fittings and accessories, providing a one-stop-shop for all your electrical needs. You can find powerhouse brands such as Trilux, OMS, Pulsar, Illuma and SG conveniently brought together under one roof, along with unique fixtures and fittings from around the world. Some of the latest technologies, such as remote lighting lifters, offer the ultimate in living convenience and energy efficient colour changing LED technology adds a bit of excitement to any room or building.

With technology advancements, within the next two years you will be able to buy an LED lighting product at the same price as a conventional one.

Bahrain’s inclination towards harnessing green energy is a clear indication that LEDs are the future.

Even if competition is tough in the market, Genprise believes that its unique products, coupled with an excellent after-sales service, will really give it a competitive edge.

Whether your requirement is for a five-star hotel, luxury villa, school, hospital, office, airport, showroom, factory or even just a decorative light for your bedroom, Genprise can provide the perfect solution at a price that matches your budget. Head down to the showroom to learn more about how you can incorporate a new line of technology into your life.

Call 17 311-442 or visit www.genpriseco.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

LAD HAIR

World-Class Hair Transplants

Dr Tahsin Al-Waheb and his team with a happy customer

The Kingdom’s leading hair transplant surgeon is urging people not to gamble with their health by travelling abroad for hair transplant surgery.

Dr Tahsin Al-Waheb, head surgeon of Lad Hair Restoration Medical Clinic in Umm Al Hassam, says that hair loss sufferers can receive world-class treatment without leaving the island.

“I worked in the US for many years and I can honestly say that my clinic stands up against the best of them,” says Dr Tahsin. “People mistakenly think they have to go abroad to have hair restoration but this isn’t the case and the problem with travelling abroad is that there is no guaranteed aftercare and follow-ups are extremely difficult.

“Follow-ups are extremely important because you can receive advice, ask questions and raise any concerns.

“Lad Hair provides a wide array of services using the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment.”

Lad Hair is a branch of Los Angeles Doctors Hair Restoration Medical Centre, Los Angeles, California. The Bahrain centre’s fully trained, certified and licensed staff has performed more than 1,000 operations with impressive results.

Dr Tahsin has numerous degrees from studying and practising in America and the UK as well as being an active member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgeons and the European Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.

Besides performing surgery, Dr Tahsin attends numerous conferences throughout the year to make sure he’s up-to-date on new developments and procedures ... Essentially, he travels so you don’t have to.

Call 13 338-889 or visit www.ladhair.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2015 135

marketplace THE CLOSETS

Heart of Glass Whether you’re furnishing home or office, clever use of glass can add space and light from room dividers to sliding doors. At The Closets and Fittings House you’ll find solutions to meet every need.

Fashionably Spacious Update your bedroom storage with opaque sliding doors and a range of innovative storage solutions that will make sure there’s space for all your favourite shirts, shoes and more while bringing your boudoir up to date.

Fashionably spacious

Turning Japanese Light tinted opaque glass with white dividers gives the feel of a Japanese paper screen but in a much more durable, robust version. Use these doors to give office storage a funky feel or add an Oriental vibe in your home dressing area or closet.

A Glass Act Sliding glass room dividers can provide privacy without blocking light and space. Utilised in the home they give an instantly modern feel to any décor scheme while in the workplace they’re ideal for creating private meeting areas which can then be rolled back so the overall space is not reduced.

Call 17 612-610 (Hamala), 17 622-610 (Sanad), 17 673-214 (Arad), +966-38 493-939 (KSA – Al Khobar).

Turning Japanese

Glass act

136 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Trib Fest Twenty-one tribute acts from the United Kingdom took to the stage at the Bahrain Rugby Club, in the first open air family music festival, Trib Fest.

Kids dance to the music

Bob, Jim & Hilary

Katie & Evelina

Lat & Khalid

Animania 2015 Bahrain’s biggest anime and gaming convention took place at the Bahrain International Circuit for a fifth year.

NOW OPEN PET GROOMING SALON ● TRENDY LION AND BEAR SUMMER CUTS ● DOGS AND CATS OF ALL BREEDS ● GROOMING (FULL, REGULAR AND VIP) ● INDIVIDUAL SERVICES

Fatema & Zainab

● WHELPING SERVICES

Dana & Naser

● TATTOO IDENTIFICATION ● TICKS AND FLEA TREATMENT

CALL US NOW (+973) 3305 3356 Email: info@bednbiscuits.net Facebook: Bed & Biscuits

Hamad, Arif & Saif

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Instagram: @bedandbiscuitsbh

Abdulla & Joal

June 2015 137

bystander

Bayti Dinner Moda Mall Lunch

Bahrain Family Leisure Company’s general manager, Peter Lyons, hosted a group of VIPs and local businessmen at Bayti Restaurant to showcase the venue‘s take on modern Middle Eastern cuisine.

Farheen, Pauly, Peter & Randa

Moda Mall briefed members of the press during a luncheon at The Sheraton Hotel.

Peter Gaynor, general manager, Cushman & Wakefield spoke on the occasion.

Officials attend the event

Biswas, Peter, Ali Rumaihi, Firaz & Leline

Jalil, Niman, Khalid, Maher, Garfield & Jameel

www.jfcbahrain.com

138 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

NAI Global announced Pegasus as its newest member firm

PEGASUS REAL ESTATE

Soaring High A prominent real estate company has taken a giant step forward as it joins the world’s largest independent member-owned real estate network.

Aziz Mithaiwala

139 June 2015

It’s great news not just for Pegasus Real Estate but also for the property market in the Kingdom as NAI Global, the single largest, most powerful global network of owner-operated commercial real estate brokerage firms, announced Pegasus as its newest member firm.

Under the expert direction of its managing director Aziz Mithaiwala, Pegasus offers in-depth knowledge of Bahrain’s complex, ever-changing marketplace and a wide range of commercial and residential real estate services, including office and retail leasing, property management services and residential multiproperty sales and leasing.

“Bahrain’s real estate market continues to be attractive to locals, other Arab nationals and expatriates region wide,” says NAI Global president Jay Olshonsky. “It was critically important that we select a firm with deep local market knowledge and the ability to act quickly and creatively to secure the best opportunities. We are pleased to offer NAI Global Members and their clients access to this tremendously competitive market through our newest member, Pegasus Real Estate.”

The decision to join NAI Global came easily to Pegasus, according to Aziz. “We found the other members to be like-minded in their philosophies — dedicated to the highest levels of service and professionalism,” he says. “And now that we are part of NAI, we can offer our clients access to local experts anywhere in the world and our employees expanded opportunities for skills development and career exploration.”

Jay mentions factors such as demand from local and regional investors and individuals, attractive

‘Galleria’, an exclusive boutique mall is managed by Pegasus

mortgage rates, ease of property purchase, residency incentives and zero taxation policies that are driving demand for property in Bahrain. “There is no doubt that growth in Bahrain’s residential and retail property sectors is on the rise,” he says. “However, as we’ve seen across market cycles, there will always be demand for quality properties in this region. Our colleagues at Pegasus are particularly well-suited to navigate this market through all conditions.

“We are eager to play a role in expanding NAI’s presence here in the region and assist regional firms to work with other member firms worldwide to help grow business.”

Pegasus is currently managing two significant and distinctive projects in the Kingdom — a large residential project “Juffair Heights” and an exclusive boutique mall “Galleria” located in Zinj next to the US Embassy.

NAI Global provides a full range of corporate real estate services including brokerage and leasing, property and facilities management, real estate investment and capital market services, due diligence, global supply chain and logistics consulting and related advisory services. Its member firms, leaders in their local markets, are actively managed to work in unison and provide clients with exceptional solutions to their commercial real estate needs.

Call 17 587-575 or visit www.pegasusbahrain.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, right, with Manchester United legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at the launch of VIVA Rewards

VIVA

Loyalty Rewards To show its appreciation towards its loyal customers, one of the biggest telecom providers in the country is offering exciting benefits for patrons.

VIVA Bahrain has always strived to be at the forefront when it comes to providing the best possible customer satisfaction. In a bid to further enhance its value offerings, the company has introduced a new loyalty programme, VIVA Rewards, to thank its

customers by providing exciting benefits. The programme is based on a tier system and allows subscribers to accumulate points depending on their usage, which can then be redeemed for telecom benefits including free VIVA-to-VIVA calls, SMS and international minutes as well as additional data.

VIVA Rewards is open to all VIVA subscribers with free enrolment to start earning points by using their mobile or data services. The programme is classified into various tiers, starting from the basic ‘Bronze level’, earning up to 120 points, followed by the ‘Silver level’ from 121 to 299 points and progressing to the ‘Gold level’ from 300 to 600 points. Customers have the flexibility to grow their tier level via their mobile or data transactions and reach up to the highest ‘Elite level’ by earning 601 or more points.

“VIVA Rewards offers a platform for us to connect with our customers in a relevant, meaningful and uniquely differentiated way,” says VIVA Bahrain chief executive officer Ulaiyan Al Wetaid. “The introduction of VIVA Rewards is our way of saying thank you to our customers for being part of the VIVA family and offering them a chance to earn points for using our services in exchange for rewarding experiences.”

To enrol for this new programme, all VIVA subscribers need to do is type ‘Rewards’ and send an SMS to 98833 or dial *98833# from their mobile.

To check their redeemable points, customers have to either dial *98833*1# from their mobile or SMS the word ‘Points’ to 98833.

VIVA is inviting all its customers to take advantage of the new loyalty programme, to earn and save up their reward points and use them towards experiencing VIVA services and offers.

Visit www.viva.com.bh/personal/rewards.

VIVA Rewards will offer exciting benefits for loyal customers

140 June 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

Experience The Grand Delmon International

AD SEEK

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

2

3

4

5

What is the name of the international Red Bull athlete and renowned freestyle kitesurfer who will be judging at Red Bull Kite The Waj? ___________________________ What is the name of the Ramadan Food and Products Exhibition taking place from June11-13? ___________________________

5. 1.6-litre

Which Mercedes model was recently launched in Bahrain? ___________________________

What is the name of Alosra’s ongoing eco-friendly campaign? ___________________________ What is the name of the Gulf Hotel’s Ramadan tent? ___________________________ Which restaurant has introduced a new burger and milkshake menu this month? ___________________________

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Eco

Range

The UNIBAY from Pulsar was designed specifically for:

Introducing new daily

1.

Large scale industrial warehouses vegetarian thali dishes at Sports halls Hangars Factories Cold Alstores Hamra Restaurant for Distribution centres

lunch from June 5

1. Alphabets and Sculptures

Reduce electricity consumption by up to 85%

2. 10 3. Over 250 million albums

15,700+ lumens Multiple fixing options 31,000 lumens in dual head configuration 10 year warranty High quality (high CRI) light Non-distracting flicker-free light 6 beam angles

4. Trib Fest

Manufactured in the UK

6. BD4,850 7. X5M and X6M

Contact Genprise at +973 17311442 or e mail info@genpriseco.c

8. Nicole’s

PULSAR - LU

9. The 1955 Burger 10. Al Abraaj Restaurants Group

Pr

FOR RESER

2.

Ad Seek

Tel: 17224000,

Email: d

1. K Home & Kitchen

Websit

2. Lumia/Intercol 3. Lad Hair 4. The Watch Boutique

K MADE · ·U

Name:

SIN

·

7

Al Hamra restaurant will be celebrating a Biryani & Kebab Festival from June 3 to June 28

Winner : Michelle Lucia Second Place : Rashida Ali Saheb Third Place : Fidelito B. Bandalan

Which play is the Manama Theatre Club staging at the British Club? ___________________________

Which country does the Diplomatic Talk interviewee come from? ___________________________

10

Bahrain This Month received 72 entries last month, 63 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

Last month’s solutions

Which KIA model did BTM test drive in this edition? ___________________________

9

Who got it right?

When is the Dreams Society’s Ramadan Ghabga due to be held and where? ___________________________

6

8

HINT: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

CE 1970

·

1

This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

ww

Address:

3.

Telephone:

Email:

CPR:

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

4.

It can get bloody elegant out there Face the New +973 1753 0329

info@thewatch.boutique

www.thewatch.boutique

June 2015 141 thewatch.boutique

tarotscope

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20 Plenty of hard work has got you to the position you stand in now and it would be unfair to suggest that you don’t deserve your time of success. However, complacency is a killer and you should not spend too much time resting on your laurels. After all, more opportunities wait out there and the chance to take that final step into the biggest arena of all is now so close you can almost touch it. If there is an ambition burning in you, grasp it rather than sitting back and watching the flame die to nothing. Before the month ends, a letter will arrive from an old friend who has been away for a long time.

Card of the Month — The Five of Cups For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

CANCER June 21 – ­July 20

Money matters could weigh heavy on your mind this month as you prepare to feel the pinch of a work stream that suddenly and quite expectedly dries up before your very eyes. The best way to deal with this might be to consider diversifying your main business but it isn’t going to be easy and things could be a little tight on the purse strings up until the end of the year now. On the positive side, a young child will give you good reason to smile and feel proud whilst a relationship still in its infancy could spring a surprise that you would never had anticipated. In a strange way, the two incidents are connected so look out for some telling signs and you might even be able to see it coming.

Card of the Month — The Three of Wands

LEO July 21 – August 21

Foremost in your mind this month will be a health issue that has been bothering you for sometime now and to which you have finally been given some positive news concerning a solution. However, it won’t all be quite plain sailing as there are a couple of issues that need to be ironed out with your physician, one specifically that sees you having to make a definitive choice over something important and potentially life-changing. Don’t try and shoulder the responsibility here alone but instead seek the advice of a loved one. You know inside yourself what you want but it always helps to talk serious matters through with those closest to you.

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man 142 June 2015

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

If there’s anything about your sign that really annoys the hell out of those close to you it’s your obsession with detail.

For some it can really grate after a while. Well, this month will see you coming to blows with a female Taurean after your critical remarks sting more than you anticipated. The resulting disagreement will not make for pretty viewing and once the dust has settled, you may find yourself with one less friend because of the fallout. If there is any lesson to be learned from the experience it’s that you need to be a little more diplomatic and sensitive to the feelings of those around you. You should not forget that sometimes it doesn’t hurt to open your heart and give logic a rest! Card of the Month — Strength

LIBRA September 22 – October 21

A separation is on the cards as you suddenly discover a partner’s intentions were not all they first appeared to be and it’s going to make June a very difficult month to negotiate from an emotional perspective. You could find a relative’s words coming true and your most terrible fear becoming a reality as a consequence. The aftermath of situation will leave you analysing all the sacrifices you have made and see you coming to terms with the impact over the coming months. You may even find that having cut off so many people to pursue a selfish aim will leave you with very few shoulders to rest your head on.

Card of the Month — Temperance

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21

The ultimate card of change is not one you need fear but rather one you should seek to embrace because it signals that much is about to alter in your life and from many endings there also grow bright new beginnings. For you, the ultimate transformation could take place at work where some unexpected news leaves you initially shocked and confused about your future. However, it won’t be long before you realise that even this event holds a rather significant silver lining and by the end of the month, you won’t even remember what it was you were originally concerned about. Sometimes a dramatic change is what a stagnant situation needs, wiping away the old and giving birth to things new and exciting.

Card of the Month — Death

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21

The King of Swords indicates that a strong male figure in your life is about to embark upon an ambitious journey to improve his standing in society. This is a card of strength and personal success and represents someone who is likely to have an impact on how your life pans out over the coming weeks. It shows a positive time ahead in the areas of business and finance and would suggest that all will progress well with anything you are both involved in.

On matters of health, June also points towards a member of your family needing surgery. It may not be an immediate family member, but it will be someone who is fairly old and who has not been in the best of health for sometime.

Card of the Month — The King of Swords

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 For many Capricorns, work is where it’s at this month as you find recent struggles are finally put behind you and you can get down to doing what you do best without any more interruptions. This is going to raise your spirits, improve your life outside of the office and also drop a few extra pennies into your savings account (which will keep the bank manager smiling). However, there could be a few darker clouds on the horizon when it comes to relationships and you may have to deal with some very uncomfortable “home truths” before you can finally put an emotional issue behind you for good. Card of the Month — The Chariot www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index AQUARIUS January 21 – February 20

The cliché of life being very much a lottery could well apply to many Aquarians this month – especially if any of you are planning home improvements or investments in new electrical appliances. There is every indication that any work to be done in the home should only be attempted by people you know you can trust – so the warning is to watch who you hire! A young child with a long-term illness could cause you a measure of concern and a trip to the doctors may be necessary due to a worsening condition. However, if you are unsure or unhappy with the advice you are given then look for a second opinion rather than take what you are told as being your only choice.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Cups

PISCES February 21 – March 20

Could this be your lucky month when it comes to romance?

The signs point to a dark a forthcoming dinner party as being the catalyst for something which leads to something a lot more serious as the next few weeks progress. However, there could be one little surprise that you weren’t prepared for and although it will all turn out okay in the end, you will be slightly shaken before the course of true love is discovered. In short, you’re in for quite an eventful June, Pisces. Just hold on tight to your heart because it could be taken to places it has never seen before! On a more sober note, think about the feelings of a family member who could be struggling right now with their own private grief.

Card of the Month — The Queen of Wands

ARIES March 21 – April 20

You’ve just come through a tough May and the chances are that you haven’t been looking forward to June with much enthusiasm as a consequence. The good news is that things are set to get a lot better, although the onus remains on you to be a little more optimistic in your outlook if you want things to really move in your favour. The way you look at the world says a lot to people about your personality and since you are generally known for your positive demeanour, certain friends and family members may have been a little surprised by your recent behaviour. Work-wise, there could be reason to celebrate on the 13th and a real spot of good fortune is yours to be had if you’re quick.

Card of the Month — The Nine of Pentacles

TAURUS Apr 21 – May 20

Just like old habits, long-term friendships – no matter what distance or time exists between them – never die and this month you are about to hear from a childhood companion that will reinforce this belief. A man is about to walk back into your life and impact it in a very serious way. Although there is an element of mystery to his return, one thing is certain: he has come back looking for some help and you might be the only person who can get him through what is a very sticky situation. It won’t pass by unappreciated and you’re likely to realise you mean more to him that you anticipated. In financial matters a chance encounter gives you the opportunity to prosper in an unlikely manner!

Card of the Month — The King of Pentacles

Tupac

Johnny Depp

Angelina Jolie

FAMOUS GEMINI THIS MONTH

Financial Institutions Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . . 50

Home & Furnishing Fittings House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 The Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

Hotels & Serviced Residences Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Delmon International Hotel . . . . . . . 111 Fraser Suites (Diplomatic Area) . . . . 45 Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park 43 Novotel Al Dana Resort . . . . . . . . . . 105 Ramada Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel . . 107 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Jewellery & Watches Asia Jewellers (Cartier) . . . . . . . . . . . BC Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . 8 Sharif Group (Jaguar) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Swatch Group (Omega) . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3 Watch Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Motoring Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . 83 Behbehani Brothers (Porsche) . . . . . . . . 12 Behbehani Brothers (VW) . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Ebrahim K. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 JAC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Mohd Jalal & Sons (Suzuki) . . . . . . . . . . . 81 National Motors (Honda) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Y.K. Almoayyed (Nissan) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Others Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . 41 Alosra Supermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 AMA School of Basic Education . . . . 4,5

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 35 Genprise Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51,57 Green Zone Environmental Centre . 137 Intercol:IAA (Techniche) . . . . . . . . . . .29 Jawad Business Group (Jawad Supermarkets) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 K Home & Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Lad Hair Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Marafie Skin & Laser Clinic . . . . . . . 123 Mega Mart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 MT Group (Porcelain Kitchen) . . . . . 124 National Photo Services . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Pegasus Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,7 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Punchline Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Syed Junaid Alam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 The Bahrain Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Yateem Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro (Aran) . . . . . . 118 Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro (Frigidaire) . . . 91

Restaurants & Cafés Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Friends Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant . . . . 103 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 My Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 NUASIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 T.G.I.Friday’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Telecommunications Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Viva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

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

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

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

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

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2015 143

lastword

The Psychology of Life How many psychologists does it take to change a light bulb? Of course, firstly one has to assess if the light bulb wants to be changed.

This is just the sort of analogy we need to enhance scientific learning and career prospects – not!

Just so you know where we are going with this, let’s assess the nuance of this article. Finding the perfect job is as rare as unicorn dung, but life ostensibly begins in our late teens with that sole goal in mind. Amazingly, so called studies show that among the worst university degrees to obtain are within the arts, which according to this research are close on a complete waste of time.

Shockingly, criminology is also high up the pile of pointlessness if this list of defeatism is to be believed.Speechless!

Just like media hype for inanity and without being too sesquipedalian about it, most of these long winded surveys are just that, tosh! Wait a minute! Who are you to incinerate that I don’t know big words? But, if authentic, then music and graphic design, or degrees centred around these subjects, are as useful as a onearmed trapeze artist with an itchy bum and below the status of stuff like marketing or social studies, which every man and his gold fish seem to have.

Psychology is another curiosity.

Ah, but ask yourself who carries out these studies? Oh! That would be marketing people and psychology students trying to justify and validate their own existence on degree courses.

What they fail to remotely intimate is that there are more psychologists working in McDonald’s than wannabe actors in Hollywood.

Apparently only some 20 per cent of degree holders actually carry their qualification through to a related vocation with most just wanting the acknowledgement and 144 June 2015

credence of degree level intelligence when applying for jobs. What jobs…where?

Yale degrees in hip-hop, rap or street talk are commanding high paying positions within corporations, simply because the Curriculum Vitae lists a ‘degree’.

Yes, some American universities even offer degrees in what can only be labelled pornography and one suspects a supergraphic memory helps with IQ tests. Indeed, the proprietor of this ‘ere bastion of literary works wishes to bring to our attention that there is currently a large (using the word very sparingly) shortage (using the word lovingly) of male employees in the Japanese adult movie industry. Lots of openings apparently!

With physics, the ‘s’ and the ‘y’ are in the wrong order so avoid that, but because it begins with ‘psycho’, psychological profiling is way up the must have degree desires. After all, the CBS series Criminal Minds portrays most of us as chainsaw murderers and none too clever because the profilers know exactly how we think. By this time, 20 souls minced but, hey, they know who did it. So, the question is; how come these psychologists can’t perform in Minority Report

mode and go to the store earlier?

Or is that too deep?

If psychology is credible and factual, then life as we know it is nothing but organised ideology.

Analytical comedians like Emo Phillips tend to test psychology to its inner or outer limits by going against teachings and asking God for a new car or something material, but we know it doesn’t work like that. So, just go out and steal the car and then ask God for forgiveness. That apparently does work. Then we have those who somehow look out from the inside and we call that philosophy. Dare we mention the psychotherapist!

Apart from the word itself being made up of ‘psycho the rapist’, who he hell is psychoanalysing the assessor?

Don’t despair; jobs are out there.

A lot of say highly educated ladiesfrom ex-communist blocks holding doctorates in rocket science are walking around gainfully employed. They could quite possibly land a Rover on Mars, but earn far more on a much smaller scale guiding pocket rockets.

As a footnote;before the Internet, Plymouth University in southern England has, or had, infinitely more wannabe psychologists swarming

and swamping the place compared to the number of light bulbs in the entire building. For those on complex mathematical and technical degree courses, seeing this entire abstract curriculum in play exasperated them to the Nth– Y degree. The psychologists had umpteen free periods and no lecture days, so continuously filled the top floor library blocking access to those hardworking geeks who were desperate to get a shot at the books but couldn’t.

Catching this Bombay-like train lift crammed with twittering anal retentive Freudies was a nightmare, so drastic tactics were employed by the geeks. One would force his way into the lift squeezing among the mass, while his colleagues would walk up one flight of stairs. Pressing floor one, once the doors had closed and the lift started moving, said geek would covertly let out an enormous fart (through his mouth we think) which resulted in a rapid mass exodus at the first stop. Needless to say, waiting geeks would quickly jump in, shutting out the psychologists.

Who knows, maybe they started to study this methodology as ‘contra-deviance’? www.bahrainthismonth.com

theclosets COSTOMER CARE CENTER

www.the-closets.com

+973 36 111 004 +973 36 111 005

NEW CALIBRE DE CARTIER DIVER CARBON cartier.com

MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC WATER-RESISTANT TO 300 METRES, THE CALIBRE DE CARTIER DIVER CARBON WATCH IS AN AUTHENTIC DIVING WATCH. FITTED WITH THE 1904 MC MOVEMENT, IT COMBINES THE HIGH TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE ISO 6425: 1996 STANDARD WITH THE ASSERTIVE AESTHETICS OF THE CALIBRE DE CARTIER WATCH. ESTABLISHED IN 1847, CARTIER CREATES EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE.